Manila Standard - 2020 December 20 - Sunday

Vaccine deals inked by January • Pompeo helps retrieve Pfizer doses • Duque: Err on the side of caution

By Maricel V. Cruz

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HE Philippines, reeling under coronavirus infections and deaths since March, is looking at possible deals with various COVID-19 vaccine producers while US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo has promised to help Manila get back a “fraction” of the 10 million doses of Pfizer vaccine, Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said Saturday.

The government, accused by some sectors of missing an opportunity to have Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine delivered by January next year, is targeting to secure a deal with various manufacturers in the next few weeks.

“We are eyeing to strike a deal with vaccine manufacturers by the end of this year or early January 2021,” National Task Force Against COVID-19 Chief Implementer and vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. said in a statement Saturday.

At a briefing on Saturday morning, Galvez said the government was just waiting for the validation and confirmation from Pfizer headquarters.

Meanwhile, Locsin said “somebody dropped the ball” which affected the shipment of 10 million doses of Pfizer vaccine to the country by January next year.

Aside from Pfizer, Locsin said the government was also working to secure vaccines

from American biotechnology firm Moderna.

Locsin previously disclosed that the Philippines was supposed to secure some 10 million doses of Pfizer’s vaccine as early as January 2021.

Senator Panfilo Lacson, citing information from Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez, later on said it was Health Secretary Francisco Duque III who failed to work on the necessary documentary requirement, namely, the Confidentiality Disclosure Agreement.

Galvez, however, insisted the Philippines did not miss an opportunity to secure doses of COVID-19 vaccines, noting that “negotiations on many occasions will reach stalemate and gridlock when legal challenges, public interest and safety are at stake.”

Duque, in his defense, said that if ever he was at fault, it was because he chose to “err on the side of caution,” saying he wanted to know more about Pfizer’s vaccine but the absence of a CDA kept the pharmaceutical firm from disclosing data.

The Health chief also said the required CDA by Pfizer was originally intended to be signed by the Office of the President and not the Department of Health.

Duque said the DOH could not sign the CDA on behalf of the whole government which was why the Department of Science and Technology and Galvez had signed the CDA separately.

Nevertheless, Galvez said the Philippines was now in the advanced stages of negotiations with various vaccine manufacturers.

“While our vaccine expert panel and the Food and Drug Administration continuously assess the safety and efficacy of each of the candidate vaccines, we are also trying to get the best price possible to ensure cost-efficiency and equitable access for the poor,” he said.

“Payments will only be done once all the regulatory requirements for Emergency Use Authorization from FDA and the originating country are secured,” he added.

The vaccine czar expressed optimism that initial deliveries will be made by March of

WASHINGTON AUTHORIZES 2ND VACCINE Story on A3

next year and the inoculation program may commence within that period “given the timeline of production.”

“I will say it again that all vaccines will pass FDA approval to ensure safety and efficacy,” he said.

Galvez noted that the delivery of all vaccines regardless of country of origin and manufacturer would be made in tranches or on a staggered basis, the same mode of delivery for developed countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada.

VOL. XXXIV • NO. 289 • 2 SECTIONS 8 PAGES • P18 • SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2020 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

(Clockwise) The Department of Social Welfare and Development has prepared aid amounting to P779.96 million, including 230,191 family food packs as Tropical Depression Vicky cause flooding and landslides in parts of Visayas and Mindanao.

Residents salvage items from their destroyed houses after the storm hit Lapu-Lapu City in Cebu island on December 19, 2020. In Leyte, two women were killed after a landslide hit Brgy. Cuatro de Agosto early Saturday morning. Authorities also had to order the total closure of the Tacloban-Baybay south road after incessant rains caused a road cut. Members of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division conduct rescue operations in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur. DSWD, AFP, PA

2 killed in Leyte landslide as ‘Vicky’ batters Visayas, Mindanao

By Ronald Reyes and Vito Barcelo TWO elderly women were killed in a landslide which hit Barangay Cuatro de Agosto in Mahaplag, Leyte early Saturday, but two others were rescued, including a 14-year-old boy as hundreds were forced to flee their inundated homes in the Philippines as torrential rain triggered flooding and landslides in the stormbattered archipelago.

Another landslide was reported in Barangay San Rafael in Bislig City in Surigao del Sur but no casualties were reported – these

as tropical depression Vicky threatened the southeastern seaboard of the country.

Vicky packed maximum sustained winds of 45 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 55 kph.

Huge waves smashed into a coastal village on Lapu-Lapu island in the central province of Cebu on Friday night, wiping out dozens of houses and leaving around 290 people homeless, Mayor Junard Chan said on Facebook.

Photos posted online by the mayor showed piles of wood and bamboo near the few houses still standing after the region was drenched by heavy rain.

Rescuers retrieved the bodies of two elderly

CREATIVE OUTDOOR LIVING IN BATANGAS

women who were killed when a landslide hit an area of Mahaplag town before dawn in the nearby province of Leyte, police officer Racquel Hernandez said.

The victims were identified as Evelina Laraño, 67, and Juvilinda Milana, 62, while the rescued were Ryan Amos, 14, and Godofredo Laraño Jr. About 1,500 people were forced to leave their homes on the major southern island of Mindanao as floodwaters engulfed 13 villages, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said.

In Malacanang, President Rodrigo Duterte continued to monitor the situation in the af-

CONSTRUCTORS HELP REBUILD THE NATION

While living in the city has its perks, there are days when you would rather escape and move to a less polluted, more restful address.

At Batulao Artscapes in Nasugbu, Batangas, less is more.

HOME/DESIGN / B2 twitter.com/ MlaStandard

Representing a sector that has been fueling the domestic economy, the Philippine Constructors Association has served as a cornerstone for economic growth and development in the past 75 years.

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HOTDOGS FOR YOUR DOG? NOT SO FAST! Dogs do love hot dogs. But is it safe and good for your dog? It is not.

manilastandard.net

COVID-19 PH AT A GLANCE

(AS OF 4 PM DEC. 19)

458,044 TOTAL NUMBER OF CASES

1,491 28,047 NEW

ACTIVE

8,911

36

421,086

436

DEATHS

RECOVERIES

NEW

NEW

STORY ON A2

‘16 PRESIDENTIAL HOPEFULS IN 2022’

PETS / B4

BUSINESS / A4 facebook.com/ ManilaStandardPH

fected areas and directed agencies to provide rescue and relief to affected residents.

“The Chief Executive continues to monitor Vicky as concerned agencies of the government assist areas that are in the track of Vicky and provide rescue and relief operations to affected residents,” Presidential spokesman Harry Roque said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the Department of Public Works and Highways totally closed the Tacloban-Baybay south road along Barangay Cuatro De Agosto due to a road crack following incessant rainfall from Tropical Depression Vicky. AFP

BELLO: 13TH MONTH PAYMENT A MUST

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News

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2020 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

• 1,491 new infections • Foreigners’ reentry OK’d

By Willie Casas, Vito Barcelo and Joel Zurbano

VOUCHING FOR THE VACCINE.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi sits and waits before being inoculated with the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine in the US Capitol Building on December 18, 2020 in Washington, DC. AFP

‘16 possible presidential bets’

By Vito Barcelo

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IXTEEN politicians and business executives plan to run for president in 2022, the next general elections after 2016, when the six-year term of President Rodrigo Duterte ends, according to research firm BluPrint.PH.

The research company and its Singapore-based partner on Data Mining and Artificial Intelligence revealed the 16 names were those of Vice President Leni Robredo, Senators Manny Pacquiao, Christopher Go, Risa Hontiveros, Grace Poe, and businessman Ramon Ang. Human rights lawyer Chel Diokno is being mentioned frequently along with Davao mayor Sara Duterte, former House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, senator Vicente Tito Sotto III,

Cavite governor Jonvic Remulla, Senator Pia Cayetano, former senators Bongbong Marcos and Manuel Villar, Rep.Lucy Torres- Gomez of the 4th district of Leyte and Manila Mayor Isko Moreno.

In a statement, BluPrint.PH said the sentiment analysis was based on the social media data extracted from June 1, 2020, to November 30, 2020 scanning a total 344,761,479 data points or Facebook engagement such as likes, shares, reactions and comments.

Employers must pay 13th month—Bello

“If we go by our big data metrics, about 16 names are frequently being mentioned on social media, particularly Facebook, as potential presidential candidates,” said Eero Brillantes, Chief Executive Officer of BluPrint.

PH. “All have paths to the presidency.

Social media networking activities alone through Facebook can generate 22 percent-35 percent of the votes in 2022,” he said.

He said there were four components to a serious campaign, namely: ground game, the air war through mainstream media, network engineering (social media), and big data for decision support.

Brillantes said the 16 names who have potential chances in presidential elections have at least one of these components, but none had all the four components.

“Social media will be a major bat-

tleground at 22 percent-35 percent potential votes,” said Brillantes.

The ground game and mainstream media through advertising and public relations will account for the 65 percent-78 percent of vote generational potential.

Big Data will be crucial in determining the right messaging and priority spending across many segments of the electorate, he said.

Blueprint.PH also conducted tandem engagement analysis of potential presidential candidates based on the social media and traditional media of 16 personalities.

On the other hand, the PAHAYAG End-of-the-Year survey, an independent and non-commissioned poll done

by PUBLiCUS Asia Inc. covering the period of December 3-9, 2020, said four politicians were in a four-way tie for the top spot in presidential predisposition.

FOR ANIMALS, TOO. Elephant ‘Trompita’ tries to open a gift brought by a visitor reading ‘Merry Christmas’ next to a caretaker dressed as Santa Claus as part of a Christmas tradition at La Aurora Zoo in Guatemala City on December 18, 2020.

AFP

By Vito Barcelo LABOR Secretary Silvestre Bello III said no company or employer will be exempted from paying their employees their 13th month pay this December even as businesses suffer blows from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The labor chief reiterated that employers should pay their employees the 13th month pay on or before December 24.

Bello ruled out any deferment of the 13th month pay.

“We will not postpone, we will not defer, and we will not give any exception to the payment of the 13th month pay. The law says: pay the workers their 13th month pay on or before December 24,” said Bello.

Presidential Decree No. 851 requires employers to pay their rank and file employees 13th-month pay, regardless of the nature of their employment and irrespective of the methods by which their wages are paid, provided that they worked for at least one month during a calendar year.

Last October, Bello revealed that rural bankers have expressed willingness to provide soft loans to micro and small business enterprises in order for them to pay their employees the 13th month pay.

He said the Department of Trade and Industry is also willing to provide the same.

The labor department also released Advisory 28-2020 regarding the ‘Guidelines on the Payment of Thirteenth Month Pay,” which states that “no request or application for exemptions or for deferment of the payment shall be accepted and allowed.”

A DAY after logging the highest number of daily coronavirus infections in close to a month, the Philippines again recorded on Saturday below 2,000 cases, with 1,491 additional infections raising the country’s tally to 458,044.

Saturday’s new cases do not include data from 7 accredited laboratories that failed to submit results to the COVID-19 Data Repository System on Friday, the Department of Health reported.

This, as health officials and experts anticipated a surge in infections over holiday merriment.

Before Friday when 2,122 new infections were recorded, the country had logged less than 2,000 cases for 18 days straight, and less than 1,500 6 days running.

Foreigners’ re-entry The Bureau of Immigration will now allow the re-entry of certain foreign nationals to the country after the InterAgency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases issued Resolution 89 that allows foreigners to return to the country.

The resolution, released by the IATF, allows the re-entry of 9(e) and 9(g) visa holders who will leave the country starting December 17.

However, officials clarified that not all 9(e) and 9(g) visa holders were allowed to return, following the revised ruling. “Those who have left prior to December 17 are still not allowed to enter the country,” the officials said.

According to the BI, 9(e) visa holders are diplomats accredited to the Philippines, including foreign embassies and International Organizations.

On the other hand, 9(g) visa holders are pre-arranged employees working in the country.

IN BRIEF Rizal lawmaker seeks forest rehab A CONGRESSMAN from Rizal whose district suffered devastating floods this year has launched a forest conservation and rehabilitation campaign in a bid to encourage the youth to become more proactive in protecting the environment.

Deputy Majority Leader and Rizal Rep. Fidel Nograles Jr., along with more than 200 students from Colegio de Montalban, University of Rizal System, as well as San Mateo Municipal College, planted 1,000 bamboo saplings along Wawa Dam in Rodriguez town.

Maricel V. Cruz

MMDA opens 2 EDSA U-turn slots

Living Korea war vets down to less than 1k

By Ben Cal Of THE 7,420-strong members of the Philippine Expedition Force to Korea (PEFTOK), who fought in Korea during the war in 1950-53, only less than a thousand are alive today (Dec. 19, 2020).

PEFTOK members, who are still living are former President Fidel V. Ramos, 92, and Maj. Max P. Young (Ret.), 98, PEFTOK president.

MODERN-DAY HERO. A man

walks past a mural representing a frontline warrior of the COVID-19, painted on a wall along the roadside in New Delhi on December 19, 2020. AFP

Young is one of only two Filipinos awarded the Taegeuk Medal, South Korea’s highest military medal for gallantry in combat. The other is the late Capt.

Conrado Yap. It was during the Korean War that the Filipinos, along with American troops and their allies, proved their heroism in combat against highly superior in numbers the combined Chinese and North Korean forces.

Ramos, then a 2nd lieutenant and a fresh graduate of West Point in the United

States, led PEFTOK forces in conquering the strategic Eerie Hill following fierce combat.

On the other hand, Young was a tank commander, who fought almost single handedly the advancing Chinese troops in the famous Battle at Yultong.

Records at the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office headed by Defense Undersecretary Ernesto Carolina, show that all surviving PEFTOK veterans are all in their 90s and late 80s.

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has decided to reopen the two U-turn slots it earlier closed along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue in Quezon City.

The MMDA granted the request of the local government to reopen the U-turn slots in front of the Quezon City Academy and the one near Dario Bridge to ease traffic in these areas.

But MMDA spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Pircelyn Pialago clarified that the Quezon City Academy U-turn slot was opened for light vehicles only while the one near Darrio Bridge is for emergency vehicles. Joel E. Zurbano

Red Cross commends NAIA virus response THE Philippine Red Cross has recognized the Customs - Ninoy Aquino International Airport as the government agency with the most distinguished COVID-19 pandemic response.

The commendation was made during the PRC Year-End Donor Recognition 2020 last Dec. 15. Also recognized during the zoom conference hosted by PRC were other partners, donors and volunteers.

PRC chairman Senator Richard Gordon personally thanked the Port of NAIA for the support it extended through prompt and expeditious facilitation of its COVID-19 related shipments needed by the country to prevent the spread of the deadly disease. Joel E. Zurbano

World

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India’s COVID cases surge past 10 million mark INDIA surged past 10 million coronavirus cases on Saturday, official data showed, the second highest in the world although new infection rates appear to have fallen sharply in recent weeks.

The number of cases increased by just over 25,000 in 24 hours, according to the health ministry, while the total number of deaths from the virus in India now stands at 145,136.

In September, the vast nation of 1.3 billion people had been recording daily new cases of almost 100,000 and looked on track to surpass the United States as the worst-hit country.

But the outbreak has accelerated in the US and appears to have lost momentum in India, despite the country being home to some of the most crowded cities on the planet.

The United States, with a population a quarter the size of India’s, has been reporting upwards of 200,000 new cases daily in recent weeks, 10 times as many as India.

India’s fatality rate is also considerably lower – less than half that of the US. Residents in the capital New Delhi told AFP they were still worried but were more comfortable than before about leaving their homes.

“Obviously the fear levels have come down over time. Initially, it was more scary,” said housewife Huma Zaidi, 46.

“But we are still taking precautions like wearing masks when going out and avoiding social gatherings.”

India has lifted restrictions on most activities to boost the struggling economy, although some states and territories have reimposed curbs.

“I plucked up my courage and went out for lunch for the first time in six or eight months,” said Simpy Dhar, 44, a language instructor.

“However, my fear is not eliminated completely. I know coronavirus is still out there.”

The 10-million mark came as the world’s second-most populous nation gears up for the colossal and challenging task of starting to vaccinate the population next year.

The government aims to inoculate 300 million people initially, with health workers and other frontline staff expected first in line.

India has yet to approve any vaccines but several drugmakers have applied for authorisation, including AstraZeneca, which has partnered with India’s Serum Institute, the world’s largest vaccine maker.

Health ministry officials were expected to meet the Election Commission -which carries out vast state and national polls -- as they map out how to distribute the shots, the Press Trust of India reported Thursday. AFP

FESTIVE FEELS. Holiday lights and decorations are seen in Beverly Hills on December 18, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. AFP

Pompeo blames Russia for cyberattack on US gov’t R USSIA was “pretty clearly” behind a devastating cyberattack on several US government agencies that also hit targets worldwide, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said.

Microsoft said late Thursday that it had notified more than 40 customers hit by the malware, which security experts say could allow attackers unfettered network access to key government systems and electric power grids and other utilities.

“There was a significant effort to use a piece of third-party software to essential-

ly embed code inside of US government systems,” Pompeo told The Mark Levin Show on Friday.

“This was a very significant effort, and I think it’s the case that now we can say pretty clearly that it was the Russians that engaged in this activity.”

Roughly 80 percent of the affected customers are located in the United States, Microsoft president Brad Smith said in a blog post, with victims also found in Belgium, Britain, Canada, Israel, Mexico, Spain and the United Arab Emirates.

“It’s certain that the number and location of victims will keep growing,” Smith said, echoing concerns voiced this week by US officials on the serious threat from the attack.

“This is not ‘espionage as usual,’ even in the digital age,” Smith said.

“Instead, it represents an act of reck-

lessness that created a serious technological vulnerability for the United States and the world.”

John Dickson of the security firm Denim Group said many private sector companies which could be vulnerable were scrambling to shore up security, even to the point of considering rebuilding servers and other equipment.

“Everyone is in damage assessment now because it’s so big,” Dickson said. “It’s a severe body blow to confidence both in government and critical infrastructure.”

The threat comes from a long-running attack which is believed to have injected malware into computer networks using enterprise management network software made by the Texas-based IT company SolarWinds, with the hallmarks of a nationstate attack. AFP

Slovak PM tests positive for coronavirus SLOVAK Prime Minister Igor Matovic said he had tested positive for COVID-19, a week after he attended an EU summit in Brussels.

The summit is believed to be where French President Emmanuel Macron caught the virus, leading a host of European leaders and top French officials to go into self-isolation.

“Today, I am one of you,” Matovic wrote on his Facebook page, attaching a screenshot of a text message with his test results.

“I was to spend the Christmas holidays helping out at a hospital. Now my plans will likely be a little different,” the 47-year-old premier added.

The government’s press department told AFP that Matovic had tested positive on Thursday and had since cancelled all his events.

Local media reported that the government had called on all ministers and state secretaries to get tested in response.

Deputy Prime Minister Veronika Remisova and Defence Minister Jaroslav Nad later announced that they were also infected.

Macron and Matovic are the latest heads of state and government around the world to contract the coronavirus, following the likes of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and US President Donald Trump.

Since the pandemic erupted, Slovakia has registered more than 146,000 confirmed infections, including nearly 4,000 new cases on Thursday.

More than 1,400 people have died from the virus in the country of 5.4 million people, including 62 people on Thursday.

New anti-virus measures are due to go into effect in Slovakia on Saturday, including the requirement for nonessential shops to close at 5 p.m. The health ministry announced Slovakia will get its first vaccines on December 26 and vaccinations should begin that day or the following. AFP

UMBRELLA FOR THE SUN, MASK FOR COVID. Residents

wearing a facemask to contain the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus walk along a street decorated with umbrellas in Kathmandu on Dec. 17, 2020. AFP

Washington authorizes 2nd vaccine THE United States on Friday authorized Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use, paving the way for millions of doses of a second jab to be shipped across the hardest-hit country in the world.

The latest breakthrough came as many governments clamp down on socializing over Christmas and New Year, which is expected to fuel a jump in virus deaths in early 2021.

Italy on Friday announced harsh new restrictions over the holidays with many shops and all bars and restaurants closed, travel between regions banned, and only one daily outside trip per household permitted.

And parts of Sydney were heading into a fresh lockdown on Saturday, with Australian officials saying they hoped the restrictions would be enough to control a growing outbreak in time for Christmas.

With the United States now registering over 2,500 deaths a day from Covid-19, senior US officials including Vice President Mike Pence stepped up to receive early vaccinations on Friday.

Pence’s public inoculation was the most high-profile attempt yet at persuading vaccine-skeptic Americans to join a national effort to halt a pandemic that has killed at least 1.66 million people and infected more than 74 million worldwide.

President-elect Joe Biden, who will take office on January 20, announced he would take the vaccine, also in public, on Monday. AFP

Toronto ‘incel’ van attack not due to ASD: prosecutor A CANADIAN man inspired by the misogynist “incel” movement to kill 10 people by ploughing a van into pedestrians in Toronto was aware of his actions and cannot claim criminal irresponsibility, prosecutors said.

Alek Minassian had pleaded “not criminally responsible” due to his autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at the start of his trial last month for the April 2018 at-

tack that killed eight women and two men and injured 16 others.

“This is about a person who committed mass murder who happened to have ASD, not that the ASD made him commit murders,” Crown attorney Joe Callaghan told the court in Toronto on Friday.

“He always had an understanding, an awareness – more than awareness – that from society’s perspective, his choice to

FANCY MEETING YOU.

Tommy Liberto aka Mr. Christmas Tree, from Bel Air, Maryland, chats with costumed characters as he walks around New York City Dec. 18, 2020, as part of his seasonal getup on the East Coast area.

Liberto designed his costume out of a real evergreen weighing more than 40 pounds.

AFP

kill was wrong.”

Minassian faces 10 charges of premeditated murder and 16 of attempted murder following the rampage where he drove a rented van at high speeds along two kilometers of roads and sidewalks, indiscriminately targeting passers-by.

Just prior to the attack, he posted on Facebook: “The incel rebellion has already begun,” and referenced American

mass killer Elliot Rodger who committed a similar attack in California.

During interrogation, he described the anger he felt toward women and said this had motivated the attack.

He said he had joined an online community of like-minded men who described themselves as “incels” or “involuntary celibates,” whose sexual frustrations led them to embrace a misogynist ideology. AFP

Peacekeepers deploy in Central Africa UN peacekeepers have deployed in the west of Central African Republic following surprise attacks by powerful armed groups involved in “a deliberate attempt to disrupt” upcoming elections in one of the world’s poorest and most troubled nations.

The UN mission to the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) said it deployed forces on Friday following an offensive by the 3R, Patriotic Movement for Central Africa (MPC) and “anti-Balaka” militias.

“The mission emphasises that these coordinated attacks in well-identified areas involve a deliberate attempt to disrupt the elections,” said the mission, which has 11,500 peacekeepers in the country.

The militias have accused President Faustin Archange Touadera of seeking to fix the planned legislative and presidential elections – due to take place on December 27 – and have warned of a violent response.

According to humanitarian and UN sources, armed groups have seized several localities along routes serving the capital Bangui, which is now threatened by a blockade.

“Reinforcement of the MINUSCA resources, including with air assets, is a response to the violence committed by these armed groups and which also affected Yaloke and Bozoum,” towns just over 200 kilometres from Bangui, killing two members of government forces, the UN mission said. AFP

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2020

Business

Ray S. Eñano, Editor / Roderick dela Cruz, Issue Editor business@manilastandard.net

Yuchengo Group remains resilient despite pandemic

PCA is one of the pioneer members of the International Federation of Asian and Western Pacific Contractors’ Association which was founded in Manila in 1956.

Photo shows the Philippine delegation during the IFAWPCA general meeting in Seoul, South Korea in 1964.

Businessman and philanthropist Dr. Francis C. Chua

PCA names Chua most influential man in PH

BUSINESSMAN and philanthropist Dr. Francis C. Chua was named the 2020 Most Influential Man in the Philippines by the Philippine Cancer Society.

“This hat is so much larger than what I can fit. There is definitely millions of Filipinos, who are more influential than me,” Chua said during the virtual awarding in the second week of December.

His recognition coincided with the launch of the Best Dressed Women in the Philippines coffee table book launch, a tribute to the women of PSC that not only spoke of how these ladies carried themselves during the crisis but more how and what they contributed to the country and fellow Filipinos during pandemic.

During the pandemic, Chua’s BA Foundation donated vital health supplies like personal protective equipment, face masks, face shields, testing kits and health supplements to frontliners and medical institutions.

As a Filipino-Chinese national, he led the transfer and dispense of P3 billion in cash assistance from the TzuChi Foundation in China.

“As a modest member of the TzuChi Foundation, we try to be always the first to respond to any calamity. It is very humbling to be given the opportunity to contribute to such a humanitarian effort,” he said.

Families from Marikina and Rizal affected by Typhoons Rolly and Ulysses were the first to benefit from the cash donation sent by the foundation.

Chua has been instrumental in many private sector and government humanitarian undertakings—for assistance from local and foreign civic groups for calamity survivors and for personally reaching out to distressed families, individuals and even, students who are caught in a bind.

“My influence, if there is any, is to work with philanthropists like you, to reach out to those with less in life,” he said.

Chua is one of the strong pillars of the Philippine Chamber Movement in the Philippines, being the only Filipino who has ever led, as president, in the three most influential business chambers in the country—the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Federation of the Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce Inc. and the Chamber of Commerce of the Philippine Islands.Othel V. Campos

Mister Donut offers 90-day trial franchise package MISTER Donut has launched a franchising scheme that gives franchisees a 90-day trial period to test if their store locations will be profitable or not.

Mister Donut’s “Business Trial Package” entails a cash outlay of as low as P100,000. The amount already covers the rental of the assets, basic small wares, COVID shield and team member uniform, crates cabinet, mobilization fee, product deposit and incidental expense bond.

A prospective franchisee should have a readily available site with a minimum size of 4 square meters.

Cherryl Carino, franchise management head at Mister Donut, said that after three months of trial, a test market location can be converted into a regular store. For a site to pass, it should yield an actual profit of at least P10,000 per month and show a return on investment potential within 24 months.

“If it passes the metrics for feasibility and viability, the franchisee will now pay the franchise fee and invest on a regular package suited to the location,” Carino said.

If the test market store is not feasible, however, the shop will be closed. The franchise applicant may opt to propose another location and run a test market store again.

The package costs of Mister Donut’s regular franchise offers are P285,000 for indoor kiosks, P380,000 for outdoor kiosks, P500,000 for inline kiosks, P1.4 million for counter cafes and P2.4 million for dine-in types.

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Filipino constructors help build the nation

EPRESENTING a sector that has been fueling the domestic economy, the Philippine Constructors Association has served as a cornerstone for economic growth and development in the past 75 years.

Formed to rebuild Manila which was virtually flattened during World War II, PCA and its members, chapters and affiliates have been involved in every landmark development project in the country from the Manila International Airport to the newest superhighway—the TarlacPangasinan-La Union Expressway or TPLEX. With the country currently battling another kind of war, the construction sector which accounts for about 12 percent of the domestic economy is again expected to help the nation recover and emerge stronger towards a sustainable growth path. In nominal terms, it contributes about P600 billion to the gross domestic product each year.

More than the peso value, the construction industry is the country’s biggest job generator in the last 10 years, providing employment to more than 4.2 million Filipinos which account for 10 percent of the total workforce. With the injurious impact of the COVID-19 pandemic to businesses around the world forcing many overseas Filipinos to return home, the industry serves as a reliable partner of the government to find a stable future for these modern-day heroes here at home.

Building from the ruins PCA’s mission began on Nov. 29, 1945 when nine industrialists led by A. G. Ner came together to form a united front that will lobby for local contractors to reconstruct the city of Manila which was the second most devastated city during World War II, next only to Warsaw, Poland.

The industry alliance was credited for rebuilding critical infrastructure and basic facilities such as roads, bridges, power and water networks, seaport, and airport, as well as government buildings that were

Later on, more laws were passed to further strengthen the construction industry such as the creation of the Philippine Overseas Construction Board for Filipino comPCA panies aiming to pursue projects abroad, President Letter of Instruction 852 which limits the Wilfredo hiring and assignment of Filipino conDecena struction professional and workers only to PCAB-licensed contractors, creation of the Construction Manpower Development Foundation which is mandated with skills development for manpower resources in the industry, and finally, the formation of the central authority for the sector – the Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines.

PCA had also become truly representative of the industry with its 12 chapters nationwide located in Pangasinan, Pampanga, Bulacan, Bataan, Marikina Valley, Manila-Quezon City (Metropolitan), Rizal, Ormoc, Leyte, Negros, Cebu, and Davao.

Going world-class As PCA’s membership expanded, the organization reached out to neighboring countries to pursue cooperation among construction companies within the region and the world. It was one of the eight pioneer members of the International Federation of Asian and Western Pacific Contracall damaged by the war. tors’ Association which was founded in From then on, PCA as a consortium or Manila in 1956. through its individual members has acIFAWPCA groups builders in 18 tively participated in major developments countries—from Tokyo and Seoul in across the country. It was behind the coun- the North and Canberra and Wellingtry’s first toll road – the North Diversion ton down under, to the bustling cities of Road that ran from Balintawak, Quezon ASEAN and the South-Asian capitals of City to Malolos, Bulacan. The group also New Delhi and Colombo. It was instrubuilt other groundbreaking projects like mental in the formation of the Confedthe North and South Expressways, the MIA eration of International Contractors Asnow known as NAIA which was Asia’s sociations, allowing it to relate some its first international airport, Ambuklao Dam concerns in the works of multilateral orwhich was known during its early days as ganizations like the International Labor the longest dam in Asia, and the San Juani- Organization, Asian Development Bank, co Bridge which connects Leyte and Samar and World Bank, particularly in the areas in the Visayas Region, making it the lon- of labor training and protection, sustaingest bridge over seawater in the country. able development, project procurement, Laying the foundation and financing.

With the country’s steady growth in the PCA is also active in the ASEAN Con1960s, PCA leaders at that time—David structors Federation representing eight Consunji, Anton Kho and Antonio Dio- nations in the region, a partner of the kno—advocated for the professionaliza- American Concrete Institute, and a part of tion of the industry with the passage of the international multi-stakeholder Conthe Contractors’ License Law (Republic struction Sector Transparency Initiative Act No. 4566) that created the Philippine espoused by World Bank and UK’s DeContractors License Board, now known as partment for International Development to the Philippine Contractors Accreditation promote transparency and accountability Board. in the construction sector globally.

House of Investments president Lorenzo Tan

By Othel V. Campos THE Yuchengco Group of Companies remains resilient amid the pandemic as it taps technology to drive growth and explores new opportunity.

House of Investments president Lorenzo Tan is confident in the conglomerate’s ability to weather the crisis and the economy’s capacity to bounce back from the impact of the pandemic. HI is the listed holding company of the Yuchengo Group.

“If there is one thing this pandemic has taught us in YGC, it’s that our concerted resourcefulness and creativity will pull us all through,” Tan said.

He said YGC has had its share in responding to the needs of the people who were affected by the crisis. It contributed to Project Ugnayan while banking arm Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. provided grocery vouchers to households in Metro Manila and surrounding areas.

YGC’s overall capacity toward recovery has been getting a big lift from subsidiaries in banking, education, life and non-life insurance, renewable energy, pharmaceutical and property.

RCBC, a YGC flagship company, started pushing innovative services to meet new normal demands in banking even beyond the pandemic.

Its inclusive DiskarTech app is the first in the country to make banking transactions simple and easy for the grassroots communities.

It has also reengineered its banking processes to digital across all branches through its Branch of Today project. Its mobile app has been enhanced, while an end-to-end online account opening facility is set to be launched by 2021.

RCBC helped in the quick disbursement of the government’s P200billion emergency subsidy to over 18 million families through its mobile automated teller machine called ATM Go which continued to be used to disburse conditional cash transfers under the government’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino.

The payouts are held in more than 70 provinces via over 1200 ATM gold terminals. An additional 2,000 units will be deployed, to bring the service to the barangay level in this critical period.

Ohmyhome app makes buying property easier FROM the time proptech company Ohmyhome launched its services in Singapore in 2016 and Malaysia in 2019, it has helped thousands of property seekers find the ideal home through its practical and innovative application and website.

Encouraged up by the impressive success in these first two sites, Ohmyhome had looked to replicate their performance in the Philippines, a fact that is now validated by the tremendously positive feedback from initial users.

Primed to make the housing journey fast and affordable for the Philippine market, Ohmyhome lost no time in making a vast number of options available for Filipino homebuyers.

“All types of residences are available from our real estate developer-partners,” company founders Race and Rhonda Wong said. “These include condominium units, bungalows, single-attached and single-detached house-and-lot units. Lot-only options are also in the platform.”

Ohmyhome has established partnerships

with real estate developers such as Vista Land International, Suntrust Properties Inc. and Avida Land, all known for their stylishly designed and high-quality homes in masterplanned communities built with contemporary amenities.

Interested property seekers can also check out units from Community Creators Inc., Sunwealth Land Development Corp. and Honeycomb Builders Inc.through the Ohmyhome website and app.

To boost choices, Ohmyhome offers its DIY option, which homeowners can use to post units and lots for sale.

Race said: “Our DIY option is similar to an open market for buyers and sellers, which adds to the diversity and variety of available listings.”

Considering the variety of homes to choose from, the application has a “Featured Listings” tab, easily found in the app home page, which leads to various house-and-lot units and condominium homes for sale in different areas in the Philippines.

All types of residences are available from Ohmyhome’s developer-partners. These include condominium units, bungalows, single-attached, and house-and-lot units. Lotonly options are also in the platform’s listings.

BRIA offers contemporary homes in 9 Laguna developments

BRIA Homes has nine developments in the booming province of Laguna.

LAGUNA’S hot springs, nature-themed resorts, exciting destinations and proximity to Metro Manila have allowed the province to prosper.

Its commercial hubs such as Laguna Techno Park and flourishing industries such as business process outsourcing, marketing and real estate have lured professionals seeking opportunities just outside the metropolis.

Offering a balance of tranquility and modernity, Laguna has become a sought-after location for property investors.

Fortunately, BRIA Homes, a leader in

housing development, was among the first to acknowledge this and now touts nine developments in the booming province.

Because of its effective formula, Affordability (Mura) + Quality (Dekalidad) = A Beautiful BRIA Home for Every Filipino, individuals and families can purchase affordable house-and-lot units in Calamba, Sta. Cruz, San Pablo, Calauan, Alaminos and Bay. BRIA Homes Calamba, a 22-hectare residential development in Barangay Bañadero is equipped with 24-hour security, guarded en-

trances and exits, a covered basketball court, children’s playground and family parks.

Coming up in Palasan-Calampang Rd. via Sitio 6 in Santa Cruz, Laguna, BRIA Homes Sta. Cruz is another option for Laguna property-seekers. This BRIA property features a covered basketball court, green parks and a kiddie playground.

Meanwhile, BRIA Homes San Pablo is a 14-hectare housing development in Barangay Gregorio, San Pablo, while BRIA Homes Alaminos is a 10-hectare property in Barangay Del Carmen, Alaminos.

Youth & Culture B1

Bernadette Lunas, Editor

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2020

manilastandardlife@gmail.com

@manilastandardlife

@MStandardLIFE

HOLIDAY 2020 GIFT GUIDE:

Save or splurge

24. Jollibee e-Gift, Available through Jollibee website or the Facebook Messenger chatbot; chatbot 25. Sodexo e-GC, Available through the Sodexo+ app

By Bernadette Lunas

A

FTER waking up to one bad news, one crisis, one terrible trending topic after another, we all deserve to wake up to something nice— for a change—wrapped and beribboned under the tree. Make your and your loved one’s holidays merry with these gift suggestions that fit a wide range of budget and suitable for the "current normal."

1 25

2 3

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P5,000 and up 6

5 5. PS4 The Last of Us Part II Special Edition, P3,499.75, Available at Toy Kingdom; 6. Fitbit Inspire HR, P4,720, Available on Lazada; 7. JBL Quantum 300 Hybrid Wired Overear Gaming Headset, P4,799, Available at Toy Kingdom; 8. Clarins Fix Makeup 2020 Holiday Gift Set, P3,100, Available at Rustan’s Beauty Source; 9. Oster Ball Blender, P2,950, Available at Rustan’s; 10.

Clever Spaces Shoe Disinfecting Mat, P2,500, Available at Rustan’s

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8

1. Nintendo Switch, Switch Available at Toy Kingdom; 2. Terre d’Hermes Gift Set, P7,500, Available at Rustan’s Beauty Source; 3. Totguard Kids Ergonomic Adjustable Study Table and Chair Bundle, P37,800, Available at Toy Kingdom; 4. Aller Plasma Nano+, P6,000, Available at www. allerplasma.com

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9

10

Below P5,000 12

11

13

14

Below P2,000 15

18

16

15. Star Wars Mule Slippers with FreshFeet, P895, Available at Marks & Spencer; 16. Floral Collection Magnolia Mini Body Shower and Gel Set, P895, Available at Marks & Spencer; 17.

LeSportsac Rectangular Cosmetic in Summer Sweets, P995, Available at Rustan’s; 18. Santeco Kolima Water Bottle, P990, Available at Rustan’s; 19.

Lysol Disinfectant Spray with Pula bear, P790, Available on Shopee and Lazada; 20.

Microfiber pillow by Rustan’s Home, P995, Available at Rustan’s

20

19

17

Below P1,000

11. Honeycomb robe by Rustan’s Home, P1,850, Available at Rustan’s; 12. Pure Cotton Christmas pajama top in navy mix, P1,250, Available at Marks & Spencer; 13. Pyrex Easy Grab Loaf Dish, P1,290, Available at Rustan’s; 14. Cross Bailey Medalist Ballpoint Pen, P1,500, Available at Rustan’s

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21

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Below P500

HEY, YOUTH! SHARE your unpublished essays with the readers of Manila Standard. Chosen essays will be published in the Young Life corner that comes out every Sunday.

This space is open for young writers, aged 13-29 years old.

Send your essay (maximum of 800 words) with photo/s, if available, to manilastandardlife@gmail.com with the subject: “Young Life - (title of your essay)” along with a brief description of yourself.

21. Pear & Ginger Fragrant Disc by Aromabotanical P330, Available at Rustan’s; 22.

Nivea holiday gift sets, P189-P299, Available at supermarkets, drugstores, and online; 23. Glass Teapot by Welup, P325, Available at Rustan’s Department Store

Love it, hate it: 2020 edition SO MANY things have happened this year, it sure feels like this it has been going on for a decade. Many believe 2020 has been a year nightmares are made of. But we cannot discount the good things—the silver linings, so to speak—that its 12 months brought to some, if all of us.

In light of the forthcoming end of this chapter, please share with us the things you love and hate about 2020. Please include your name and age, and send it to manilastandardlife@ gmail.com with subject head: Love, hate 2020. Submitted entries will be featured in our yearend issue.

B2

Home/Design

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2020

Joel D. Lacsamana, Editor E-mail: jdlacsamana@gmail.com

Creative outdoor living in Batangas

W

HILE living in the city has its perks, there are days when you would rather escape and move to a less polluted, more restful address. Although nothing beats waking up to cleaner air and clearer skies, it can be difficult to let go of city conveniences we’ve grown accustomed to. The answer: choosing a location that lets you enjoy the best of both worlds.

Batulao Artscapes in Nasugbu, Batangas is a designer-driven community developed by Century Properties, nestled on the foothills of Mt. Batulao. Shaped by design and grounded in natural beauty, it is the nurturing middle ground that brings

you closer to nature while keeping the comforts of the city within reach.

Change of pace At Batulao Artscapes, less is more.

Simplify your life by focusing on life’s essentials and prioritizing what really matters. Here, your workstation awaits – you can work-from-home with ease then step out to take in the beauty of the surroundings.

Batulao Artscapes lets you own a designer home at an available cost. Commune Village 1 at Batulao Artscapes features exclusive collaborations with world-renowned Filipino designers Eduardo Calma and Kenneth Cobonpue.

Polygonal Successions, designed by multi-awarded architect Eduardo Calma, highlights a unique townhome that produces repetitive faceted forms in mirror image of each like a mask. With its distinct architecture and interesting shape, it stands out amidst the property’s greenery.

Hedera, designed by furniture designer and manufacturer Kenneth Cobonpue, takes inspiration from nature

with its ivy walls on duplex and single detached forms. With the evergreen shrouding each home’s exterior, Hedera seamlessly blends into Batulao’s natural foliage.

Get active, explore the outdoors Batulao Artscapes will also have amenities that will cater to different pursuits—making sure each member of the family has something to enjoy.

Aside from making the most of the lawn and open spaces, homeowners will have access to a swimming pool, a play area, a basketball court, and a multipurpose area.

Change your view Trade the view of the city skyline for a lifetime of waking up to the sound of rustling trees and the beauty of nature.

At Batulao Artscapes, you get a private indoor space and an outdoor garden space at a lower price compared to city condos.

Located between Tagaytay and Nasugbu, Batulao Artscapes is only 2.5 hours away from Metro Manila and 20 minutes away from Tagaytay City.

To learn more about Century Properties and its properties, visit www.centuryproperties.com

DMCI COMPLETES PROJECTS DURING PANDEMIC. Developer

DMCI Homes recently completed four residential developments, and turned over a total of 11 buildings to homeowners during the time of the pandemic. In November, DMCI Homes started the move-in process for the North Tower of Lumiere Residences (Seen here), marking the completion of the three-building, 43-storey development at the corner of Pasig Boulevard and Shaw Boulevard in Pasig City. This brought DMCI Homes’ delivered projects to 4 this year, including Alea Residences in Bacoor Cavite; Sheridan Towers in Pasig City; and Calathea Place in Parañaque City. The list also includes the Westport and Lauderdale buildings of Oak Harbor Residences in Parañaque City; Mulberry Place’s Bengaline, Dui, and Cochine buildings in Acacia Estates, Taguig; and Verdon Parc’s Belvedere building in Davao City. With a combined 4,241 residential units, the 11 completed buildings have a total sales value of P14.4 billion. To learn more about DMCI Homes projects, log on to www.dmcihomes.com.

Corporation (AIEC) recently brought home the Best Industrial Development at the 8th Property Guru Philippine Property Awards. The AIE is a 63-hectare industrial Special Economic Zone registered under the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, is located in Panabo City, Davao del Norte. Several commercial and mixed-use developments by sister company, Damosa Land namely Damosa Diamond Tower, Agriya, and Ameria also won several awards leading to Damosa Land, Inc. being named as Best Boutique Developer. PropertyGuru Group recognizes the best of the best in real estate development in Asia. Shown in photo is Ricardo F. Lagdameo, first vice president of Anflo Industrial Estate Corporation.

DRIVING RECOVERY IN THE NEW NORMAL. Major tourism destinations like Tagaytay, Boracay, Baguio, and Bataan recently opened their borders to local tourists, while following health protocols. CitiGlobal Realty and Development Inc., is currently offering affordable, income-generating properties in the country to help local tourism get the economy get back on track.” Tourism allows entrepreneurs to gain more opportunities and develop products,” said Gary To, managing director of CitiGlobal. The real estate developer shared a few industries that it predicts will rebound from local tourism. Restaurants and food services; historical locations; souvenir stores; and hotels lodgings. CitiGlobal wants to deliver real estate projects that will revolutionize the Filipino mindset on leisure properties. Among their currently open real estate projects are Tagaytay Fontaine Villas, Tagaytay Clifton Resort Suites in Tagaytay, and Diamond Beach Resorts in Palawan (shown in photo).

They also have future projects in line in Quezon City, Cubao, Bataan, Tagaytay, Palawan, Panglao, and Davao.To learn more about CitiGlobal Realty and Development, Inc., visit https://citiglobal.com.ph/.

New NAIA celebrates the wonders of PH ENGINEERING and infrastructure conglomerate Megawide revealed last week more details on their architectural plans for the rehabilitation of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Termina 1 (T1).

The proposed design for the transformation of Terminal 1 takes inspiration from the Banaue Rice Terraces, a national heritage landmark and considered globally as the 8th Wonder of the World.

“There were a number of proposals presented,” said Louie Ferrer, Megawide executive director for

ANFLO INDUSTRIAL ESTATE WINS AT PHILIPPINE PROPERTY AWARDS. Agro-industrial developer Anflo Industrial Estate

infrastructure development.

“But when we saw the design for the Banaue Rice Terraces, we knew it was the best fit for the new NAIA. It is an innovation of one of our illustrious peoples, the Ifugao; a landmark of our country’s agricultural expertise; and a symbol of community.”

The central landscape, called the “Hagdan” (“Steps”) is a sunken garden that is reminiscent of the terraces. The communal concept is similar to the Airport Village at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Terminal 1.

Entertainment

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2020

B3

Nickie Wang, Editor; E-mail: nickie.standard@ gmail.com

CHARLES NATHAN

Next dramatic actor to watch

The 20-year-old actor is one of the stars in the daring film, ‘Anak Ng Macho Dancer,’ which will be exhibited in commercial theaters next year.

opportunity presented to me by Godfather Productions is more than what I have hoped for,” Charles stated.

In a press launch held in Quezon City, Godfather Productions’ Joed Serrano formally announced Charles as the next dramatic actor to watch.

“If you noticed he is fully clothed unlike the the previous events we’ve had introducing the stars of the film, Anak Ng Macho Dancer. Iba kasi ang branding niya,” ,” Joed explained alluding to press events where Sean De Guzman and Ricky Gumera, also stars of Anak Ng Macho Dancer,, stripped down to their tiny underwear.

Charles is being groomed to be a matinee idol and would like to follow in the footsteps of actors like John Lloyd Cruz and Alden Richards.

Apart from his daring role in the Macho Dancer sequel, Charles will headline a new movie with Superstar Nora Aunor titled Kontrabida.

Also in the pipeline are Mga Batang Tondo, Matinee Idol,, and Joed Serrano’s biopic where Charles plays the title role.

“It’s overwhelming really that’s why I’m doing my best to deliver,” he ended.

By Nickie Wang

T’S quite common to find new dramatic actors in a sea of showbiz newbies. And that’s what exactly happened to Charles Nathan, one of the stars of Anak ng Macho Dancer, a daring sequel to the Lino Brocka classic masterpiece, now with Joel Lamangan at the helm.

I

Speaking to Manila Standard Entertainment, the 20-year-old newcomer, who first found fame on social media where he has a significant following, admitted that he can’t still “absorb” that fact that he was given this opportunity to act more so to star in his own movie.

“I think this is already the course that I’m going to take. I have already done two projects before, but the

Newcomer Charles Nathan has a few projects in the pipeline including a movie with Superstar Nora Aunor.

Iñigo and Moophs’ ‘Always’ makes it to Apple Music’s best of 2020 list

Justin Bieber returns to the live stage CANADIAN pop superstar Justin Bieber is teaming up with T-Mobile to host a blowout livestream concert — Bieber’s first live show since 2017 — to kick off the New Year.

Fans across the globe can tune into T-Mobile Presents New Year’s Eve Live with Justin Bieber, Thursday, Dec. 31 starting at 7:15 p.m PT/10:15 p.m. ET. with the cannot-miss performance beginning at 8:00 p.m. PT/11:00 p.m. E.T..

“I’ve worked with T-Mobile for a long time — they’re such a fun brand, and we’re working on more surprises to watch out for during this special night,” said Justin Bieber.

“I can’t wait to partner on this epic New Year’s Eve concert with them, and give everyone a safe way to kick 2020 out the door, together.”

After closing out 2020 with three smash singles — “Holy,” with Chance The Rapper, “Lonely” with benny blanco, and “Monster” with Shawn Mendes — Justin Bieber reigns as one of the biggest artists in the world: the #1 artist on YouTube with 60 million subscribers, the #2 artist on Spotify global with over 65 million monthly listeners, over 200 million in combined U.S. radio audience per week, and three Grammy nominations and an American Music Award for his 2020 album Changes.

Inigo Pascual (left) with rapper and music producer Moophs

Canadian pop superstar Justin Bieber is ringing in 2021 with an explosive live show.

Robbie ‘Can’t Stop Christmas’ BRITISH singer-songwriter Robbie Williams has released a brand new single “Can’t Stop Christmas,” out now on Columbia Records.

Sure to make spirits soar, the holiday single is a fun take on the traditional Christmas song with cheeky lyrics reflecting on an unprecedented 2020 complete with an upbeat melody and seasonal jingle bells.

The new single sees Robbie working once more with long-time producers Guy Chambers and Richard Flack.

Including 2020 nods to Facetimes and Zooms, socks and hand sanitizers as perfect Christmas gifts, online shopping and social distancing: “Santa’s on his sleigh, but now he’s two metres away.” Robbie captures Christmas 2020 for us all; replacing fear with hope.

The single is culled from the critically acclaimed The Christmas Present – Robbie’s most recent and first ever Christmas album which is out now. The double album features a brilliant mix of original songs and special festive covers featuring star guest appearances including Rod Stewart, Bryan Adams, Jamie Cullum, and Tyson Fury. The album gave Robbie his 13th Number 1 solo album last December, meaning he reached the amazing feat of equalling Elvis Presley’s chart record as the solo artist with the most UK Number 1 albums. The record is available in CD (standard and deluxe), vinyl, and cassette formats and also available for streaming.

IÑIGO Pascual and Moophs’ recent collaboration, the dancehall-afrobeat pop track “Always’ made it to Apple Music’s yearly roundup of global top music releases dubbed “The 100 Best Songs of 2020 Playlist.”

This year’s theme is “music of all styles and perspectives bringing us closer together when many of us are forced apart.” Aside from “Always,” the list includes songs from Dua Lipa to Ariana Grande to Justin Bieber and some of the world’s huge pop acts.

“Dancehall meets Afrobeat put lovers’ heartbeat in sync,” cited Apple Music editors on “Always,” a pop song that speaks of convincing a love interest to commitment despite reservations, which is a theme remarkably central to Iñigo’s upcoming 2021 full-length album, “Options.”

“I feel like releasing songs that give you good vibes is important right now with what’s happening in the world. It’s the perfect way to bring smiles to people, wherever they are and whatever they’re going through,” said Iñigo about the track.

Moophs, meanwhile, expressed glee over the streaming platform’s recognition. “I’m honored to be included in Apple Music’s Top 100 roundup for 2020 alongside such amazing artists. Big love to everyone enjoying and supporting the music. I’m really glad what we’ve been doing is starting to reach some ears around the world,” he said.

The Tarsier Records’ label head produced, composed, and mixed “Always,” with songwriting handled by BTS’ “Black Swan” co-composer Vince Nantes, fellow Tarsier Records artist, and OPM pop artist Sam Concepcion, and Iñigo himself.

The single follows the creative crew’s hopeful track “RISE” from earlier this year, one of the biggest international releases to ever come out of the country, bringing together artists from the US (Eric Bellinger, Vince Nantes), Malaysia (Zee Avi), and the Philippines (Iñigo, Sam, Moophs).

Iñigo and Moophs also made history earlier this month as they released a remix of their 2019 island pop hit, “Catching Feelings,” which nears 10M Spotify plays and has generated over 100K social dance challenge videos. The international collab featured Grammynominated producer Leslie “Bimwala” Ludiazo and one of Hawaii’s biggest reggae acts, J Boog.

MYX Global hosted the worldwide premiere of “Catching Feelings” (Bimwala Remix), which was launched in a revolutionary four-day marathon of over 50 DJs playing it on their virtual sets on Twitch, kumu, and radio stations around the world from Manila to Los Angeles, Toronto and London. The song is currently holding the no. 2 spot on iHeartRadio’s Island 98.2, Hawaii’s top reggae radio station.

Pets Condo residents band together to fight cat haters B4

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2020

Desiree Carlos, Editor

daycarlos28@yahoo.com

PET TALES

BY DESIREE CARLOS

N

ILIGAW. Tinapon sa river.

Cats went missing. Some humans reportedly took them, then brought them to undisclosed places.

They also learned about other ways to “dispose” of the stray cats they were feeding from posts of cat haters in social media. The cat haters talked about about hanging the cats, poisoning them, or throwing them elsewhere.

To keep the cats safe, four women banded together to fight the cat haters.

Porsha Rhia Lai, Brenda Francisco Basas, Kai Talavera and Hannah Mandi formed the group Cats of Manila Rivercity Residences ( Cats of MRR), together with other residents. They feed stray cats, have injured or sick cats treated by vets, and have them spayed or neutered so the number or cats in their community will not multiply.

Shanley Arcilla and her family adopted Puma, the cat who is loved by MRR security guards. Puma used to accompany the guards, especially those on night shift.

Her family also adopted community kitten Chocnut.

'Mama cat' Porsha who started the spay /neuter of MRR cats with two cats for spaying.

One of the feeding stations for cats of Manila Rivercity Residences.

Ivy, the kitten found abandoned after Typhoon Rolly hit the country, was adopted

by Jay Pangdan. Branda Basas of Cats of MRR assisted.

Cat rehabilitation and adoption

It was very cold that night of November 14. A raspy meow was heard coming from one of the community cages beside a tower inside the condo premises.

A palm-sized dirty white kitten with swollen ears and bloated tummy was in pain, trying to find comfort and warmth beside the cages.

Porsha contained the severely emaciated kitten, cleaned him, and gave him food and water. The next day, the kitten was brought to the clinic. He weighed only 0.8 kllograms. The vet diagnosed him to have scabies, a skin problem that can be passed to humans. He was injected with Ivomec every week for four weeks to deworm him.

They named him Yuri. He was only eight months old.

He gained weight (now 2 kilograms) after only a month as he is fed good food. His hair turned out to be a beautiful, shiny white coat after four weeks of regular cleaning.

Their efforts paid off as Yuri was adopted by MRR resident Clar Sumile Sanson.

“Yuri is now a happy kitty living in a home with toys to play, an area to freely run and climb, and a family to call his own,” said Porsha.

Tamtam, like Yuri, is a stray cat in the MRR premises.

Recently, he was seen with blood on his face while he was in his favorite spot where he sleeps after feeding.

Hannah, who checks the cats at noon time, approached him and saw his face was swollen and he had open wounds.

Tamtam was contained in the community cage and his wounds were cleaned.

When he did not eat for 24 hours, the volunteers brought him to the Santa Ana Animal Health Clinic.

“The attending vet said the such wounds and swelling were not from the usual cat fight. Most probably, Tamtam's face was hit by a hard object.” Porsha said.

Tamtam on the day he was found with blood on his face.

Tamtam after treatment.

Another community cat, Blackie, was adopted by Sean Carlo Betco. Hannah Mandi of Cats of MRR assisted.

This is so saddening and infuriating at the same time as Tamtam is not an aggressive cat. “He has a very laid back personality. His daily routine includes sleeping, eating and some vocalization exercises before he sleeps again.

Tamtam is a sweet cat and shows his appreciation by rolling on the ground while purring,” Porsha said.

After almost a week of confinement, Tamtam returned to MRR. “No more swollen face and the wounds are healed. While Tamtam has already recovered and back on his daily routine, the investigation of the incident is still in progress,” Porsha said.

Working with the board of directors

Some of the estimated 70 cats of MRR during feeding.

Yuri with adopter Clar Sumile Sanson.

Brenda and Kai brought up the idea to write the BOD to seek help for their project to help the cats.

“We convinced the board of directors (BOD) of the advantage of TNVR. Since there was an issue about cats being thrown out, and yet new cats would come in, they were convinced that neutering and spaying cats are the real solution, “ Brenda said.

After a talk with Rochelle Nisay of the BOD, the board decided that the cats in MRR will no longer be considered as stray cats but will be treated as MRR community cats. Cats of MRR, meanwhile, will be responsible for the feeding, cleaning of feeding areas, and enforcement of rules from the BOD. The BOD also donated cages for the project. These were put in areas where residents feed the stray cats.

“By promoting awareness, transparency, TNVR, with support from the Admin, Housekeeping and Security, more residents have stepped up and have shown care for the MRR Cats as part of our community,” Brenda said.

Yuri and Tamtam are just two of about 70 cats who are always in danger of being hurt by cat haters in the area.

The Cats of MRR sought the assistance of the board of directors (BOD) of MRR. to protect the poor, homeless cats, and because they believe that preventing unwanted kitten births will help decrease the number of cats who will be hurt.

“Thankfully they were supportive as Successful TNVR they recognize that cats are part of the After only four months, 26 of about community ecosystem, “ Porsha said.

70 cats in the community have been

spayed or neutered.

They have also had six adult cats (George, Kitkit, Nana, Puma, Mickey, Uling) and five kittens (Ivy, Chocnut, Nuggets, Blackie, Yuri) adopted.

Initially, Porsha, Brenda, Kai and Hannah paid for the spaying and neutering of cats.

“From our own savings. But lately, we've been receiving donations and sponsorships from other residents.

Hopefully, in the future, we can have fundraising activities to defray costs for spay/neuter, food and medical bills,” Porsha said.

At least two cats are brought to the clinic for spaying or neutering weekly.

Feeding

The cats are fed twice a day.

Hannah said they feed morning and evening "since most of the volunteers work in the office. For those working at home, they feed the young weaning kittens and rehabilitated cats at noon as well. There are designated feeding areas to consolidate the cats. These feeding areas are cleaned at least once a day.”

“Our condo admin donated to us initial supplies such as cages, litterbox, food bowls to establish designated feed-

ing areas. Volunteers also take rounds to check the feeding areas and the cats.

Our Housekeeping and Security are a big help to look after the cats. They even play with them.,” Porsha said.

Brenda said the feeding areas were chosen in such a way that residents near the cats can feed them and to make sure that feeding areas are cleaned to avoid complaints from other residents.

Fighting cat haters

Brenda and Hannah said they filed a complaint against those who posted in social media about poisoning, hanging or throwing out cats from the premises before the barangay.

Fortunately, barangay 880 officials are also cat lovers and cat parents who said they will never tolerate abuse and maltreatment of cats.

“These (cat hate statements in social media) make us feel so mad but whenever we feel so angry, we just focus on the cats and caring for them, “ Brenda said.

While there are haters, Brenda said there are more supporters of their work to help the cats. This support helps keep the cats safe and thus, they are very thankful to these residents, she said.

Hotdogs are not safe treats for dogs day. The average hot dog contains more than 500 mg of sodium, so feeding your dog only one-half of a hot dog would probably put him way over his daily sodium limit,” Ripley says.

When you give food with a lot of salt to a dog, the dog will get dehydrated. The Toxic ingredients excess sodium or salt consumption will A lot of the hotdogs in the market contain lead to high blood pressure, just like in ingredients that are harmful to dogs such as: humans, adds Ripley.

1. sodium nitrate, which has been linked Too much salt in the diet can also lead to to cancer; kidney problems.

2. monosodium glutamate (MSG); Another problem with hotdogs is the 3. sugars or artificial sweeteners; and fact that they are choking hazard as some 4. seasonings, such as garlic and onion dogs, specially the big ones, might try to powder, which can be toxic to dogs. swallow a hotdog without chewing it.

The salt content is the biggest problem with hot dogs, says Ripley.

Hotdogs and diarrhea “According to the National Academy of If your dog got to snag a hotdog while you’re Sciences, a dog weighing 33 pounds only not looking, do not panic. One hotdog will not needs 200 milligrams (mg) of sodium per cause much harm, specially for a big dog. But DOGS do love hot dogs. But is it safe and good for your dog?

IT IS NOT. It contains ingredients that are considered toxic to dogs, says Katherine Ripley in “Can Dogs Eat Hot Dogs?” in the American Kennel Club online site.

He may give you the most beautiful smile with eyes begging for hotdogs, but please never give in. Think kidney failure or high blood pressure. You don't want your dog to suffer or die, do you?

There are alternative treats for dogs hat are healthy food. Please avoid hotdogs.

please do not let it happen again.

“He might get a bellyache or have some other digestive problems, like diarrhea, but this should pass within one day. You only need to call the vet if the diarrhea persists, or if he is vomiting with diarrhea, as this could lead to extreme dehydration,” Ripley says.

The salt in the hotdog will make your dog very thirsty, so please make sure that your dog has plenty of water available, Ripley adds.

A healthy alternative

Plain beef, pork or chicken with no salt or seasoning are the best alternative to hotdogs.

You can boil them before putting them on the barbecue grill to make the meat more chewy, and then cut into bite-sized pieces. This also helps prevent choking.