Manila Standard - 2020 December 25 - Friday

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A BLESSED CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND ALL!

VOL. XXXIV • NO. 294 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2020 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Rody, Leni, Congress, SC spread message of hope SWINGING SANTA. A man dressed as Santa Claus, foregoing his traditional sled and reindeers, uses a rope to descend from the roof of a paediatric clinic in Ljubljana, Slovenia on December 24, 2020. AFP

Blue Xmas for many Filipinos, SWS says Pandemic sends expectations to record low COVID-19 PH AT A GLANCE

(AS OF 4 PM DECEMBER 24)

465,724 TOTAL NUMBER OF CASES

1,176 26,179 NEW

ACTIVE

9,055

7

DEATHS

NEW

430,490

533

RECOVERIES

By Vito Barcelo

O

NLY half of the country’s population will be celebrating a happy Christmas in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, a recent survey released by the Social Weather Station (SWS) shows.

This is the lowest on record, plunging 12 points from the previous record-low of 62 percent in 2013, 2006, and 2005. Last year, 79 percent of Filipinos expected a happy Christmas,the survey said.

Those expecting a happy Christmas are still majorities in Mindanao (65 percent) and the Visayas (57 percent), but are only minorities in

Balance Luzon (42 percent) and Metro Manila (36 percent).

On the other hand, 15 percent of Filipinos expect this year’s Christmas to be sad—a new record, surpassing the 11 percent posted in 2011. In 2019, only 2 percent expected a blue Christmas.

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NEW

Gov’t up to task of dealing with virus—Duque

By Willie Casas HEALTH Secretary Francisco Duque III on Thursday assured the public that the government was up to the task of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic that has brought even the most powerful nation in the world to tears.

At the Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum, Duque said 2020 was the most difficult year for the Department of Health as the country came to grips with the pandemic and a global supply shortage for personal protective equipment (PPE).

While anti-COVID-19 vaccination programs are already under way in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and Singapore, the best case scenario for the Philippines is that Next page

SMASH-UP. A Toyota car driven by Elmer Marcelo (slumped on the ground) and three motorcycle riders figured in an accident when the car allegedly counterflowed and drove along a one-way traffic along Kalayaan Avenue in Makati City. Two of the three riders – Benedict Tamayo and Mark Vincent Jacinto --suffered injuries. Diana Noche

‘Double murder suspect demoted in 2014’ THE Department of the Interior of Local Government (DILG) confirmed on Thursday that Master Sgt. Jonel Nuezca, the policeman involved in the double murder of mother and son Sonya and Frank Anthony Gregorio over an altercation in Paniqui, Tarlac, was demoted for a grave misconduct complaint filed in 2014.

In a news release, DILG Undersecretary and spokesperson Jonathan Malaya said the Na-

tional Police Commission (Napolcom) en banc, chaired by Secretary Eduardo Año issued the decision on Oct. 21, 2020, imposing the penalty of one-rank demotion to Nuezca for robberyextortion.

The order was issued by the Napolcom Central Office.

Malaya said the complainant alleged that on

By Vito Barcelo, Rey E. Requejo, Maricel V. Cruz, Macon Ramos-Araneta and Rio N. Araja AS THE Philippines celebrates Christmas amid the continuing threat of President Duterte the coronavirus 2019, President Rodrigo Duterte joined his countrymen in marking the birth of Christ and to follow the lead of Jesus Christ in helping those in need.

“This year has been a trying time for all of us.

Many lives were lost and forever changed due to VP Robredo COVID-19 pandemic and several natural calamities,” the President said in his message,adding “but through it all, we continue to survive and rise because of our unity, strength and indomitable spirit of (the) Filipinos.”

“Let us also allow Christ into our lives so that we Senate President Sotto could bring love and cheer not only to our families and friends but also to those who are most in need,” he said.

The President also wished that “ we all have a meaningful celebration and let us be hopeful for the better days ahead, saying “Maligayang Pasko sa Speaker Velasco ating lahat.”

Meanwhile, Malacanang called on all Filipinos to extend more compassion, understanding, and patience to their fellowmen,this Christmas day.

In his Christmas message, presidential spokesperson Harry Majority Leader Romualdez Roque said the country “struggles to confront the various challenges that we faced this year.”

The pandemic and the natural disasters brought fear and sadness but during these difficult times, we heal and recover as one,” Roque said.

Amid these challenges, CJ Peralta the Palace official said there were “silver linings” that Filipinos could be thankful for.

May this Christmas be filled with hope, peace and joy,” he said.

“As we celebrate this season, we call upon all Filipinos to remember to share our blessings to our brothers and sisters who have been badly affected by natural or personal tragedies,” Roque added.

Malacañang earlier said the President would spend Christmas with his family in his official residence in Davao City.

It is the fifth time Duterte will celebrate Christmas Next page

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Budget OK major feat for Senate Immigration bureau bars entry of passengers from UK

By Macon Ramos-Araneta THE passage of the P4.5-billion budget for 2021, seen to drive the country’s pandemic response and recovery efforts, is the biggest accomplishment of the Senate “especially now that we are in a health crisis,” said the senators.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III

said the 2021 budget was the allocation for the country to face and cope up with the pandemic. He said the next year’s national budget assured funding for COVID-19 pandemic and assistance.

“Its priority is not just our health workers but about 70 percent of our people. They should be prioritized,” Next page

By Vito Barcelo THE Bureau of Immigration said it would ban the entry of all passengers whose flights came from United Kingdom after the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) issued resolution 90, banning all flights from the said Eu-

ropean country effective December 24.

Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said the IATF resolution was suspending all flights from the UK until December 31, 2020.

“Consequently, effective December 24, all passengers who have been to the United Kingdom in the last 14 days are temporarily restricted from entering

the Philippines,” said Morente.

He clarified that even transiting passengers from the UK were included in the travel restriction. “I have instructed a strict implementation of our 100 percent passport inspection to ensure that we are able to detect anyone who has been to the UK in the last 14 days,” he stated.

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News

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2020

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Sinas to leave PNP ‘disciplined force’ P

HILIPPINE National Police chief Gen. Debold Sinas said Thursday he would like to leave the police force “disciplined” when he steps down after six months, as the organization is again mired in controversy following a cop’s brutal killing of unarmed civilians on Sunday.

Sinas, who drew public criticism for holding a mañanita for his birthday during Metro Manila’s strict lockdown, was appointed to the post in November and is set to retire in May. “The most important thing is the policeman is disciplined and he knows his job... If he’s disciplined, abuse will

lessen,” he told ANC’s Headstart when asked what mark he wants to leave when he retires from the PNP. “Of course respect from the public will come after you show good deeds, good actions, good police operations...

I want what I see in other countries, where policemen are respected because

Gov’t...

From A1

Blue Xmas...

From A1

vaccines will be available only by March or April 2021.

Duque, however, said the government is up to the unprecedented challenges.

He said the country has now 11,000 temporary treatment and monitoring facilities equipped with 170,000 beds, 191 testing laboratories, a testing capacity of 34,000 to 35,000 individuals per day, COVID-19 beds at 23,000 and is eyeing to secure 60 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines from various manufacturers by 2021.

“We continue to develop our capacity in prevention and solutions,” Duque said.

Duque, however, conceded that despite a downward trend in the past few months, the cases experienced a surge during the holiday season, particularly in eight to nine cities in National Capital Region, which registered a higher attack rate.

But he said the country should be able to curb these cases with observance of minimum health standards of wearing face masks, face shields and observing physical distancing.

“We are not defenseless,” Duque said.

A surge in COVID-19 cases will be noticeable during the first two weeks of January because of increased interactions during the holidays, a researcher who tracks the pandemic said.

Ranjit Rye of the OCTA Research Team said there was no doubt that cases would rise again because of the holiday interactions, and that these would be manifest during the first two weeks of January.

He said the pandemic would remain manageable if the number of daily cases fell below 2,000 a day. More than that and it would put a strain on hospitals, Rye said.

The Philippines logged on Thursday 1,776 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total to 465,724, the Department of Health (DOH) reported.

Top cities and provinces with new cases are Quezon City, 128; Davao City, 121; Rizal Province, 94; Western Samar, 57; and Bulacan, 56.

The DOH reported seven new fatalities, bringing the death toll to 9,055, which is 1.94 percent of the total cases.

The DOH also reported 533 new recoveries, bringing the total recoveries to 430,490.

This left 26,179 active cases, which is 5.6 percent of the total cases.

Of the active cases, 81.4 percent are mild; 10.3 percent are asymptomatic; 5.2 percent are critical; 2.7 percent are severe; and 0.34 percent are moderate.

Duque on Thursday urged all laboratories in the countries to stay open over the Christmas holidays.

The expectation of a sad Christmas was customarily in single-digits, ranging from 2 percent to 9 percent. It was only in 2004, 2009, 2011, and 2020 when it reached double-digits, ranging from 10 percent to 15 percent. Expectations of a sad Christmas was higher among self-rated poor families, and those who believe that their quality-of-life got worse.

The 33 percent expecting the coming Christmas to be neither happy nor sad is also a record that surpassed the previous record of 29 percent in 2006.

Some 55 percent said they will celebrate the Noche Buena with the family only, and 49 percent said they will go to church or attend religious services.

In the November 2020 survey, the SWS found that 16 percent or an estimated 4 million families experienced involuntary hunger due to lack of food to eat – at least once in the past three months.

These results were from the Fourth Quarter 2020 Social Weather Survey which was conducted from Nov. 21-

Budget...

From A1 said Sotto.

“They should be given help by the government. This is about the immunization program. And we’re not asking them to pay to have this immunization (against Covid-19),” Sotto added.

As the 18th Congress adjourned for the Christmas break, Sotto said he was satisfied with their accomplishments.

Senate Finance committee chairperson Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara said there was only one major macroeconomic assumption that underpinned next year’s expenditures and that was COVID-19.

“It will dictate the thrust and content of the 2021 budget. It is through this prism that we will view the budget.”

“As all funds to fight the pandemic will emanate from this spending bill, then it should be a fighting budget not a business-as-usual one,” Angara added.

In a nutshell, Angara noted this budget would help the sick, the health system and the economy recover.

Angara said Congress had alloted P72.5 billion for the purchase of COVID-19 vaccines, which the government targets to administer to the general population by the second quarter of 2021.

Rody,...

From A1 in Davao City since he became president in 2016.

During pre-COVID days, Duterte used to celebrate Christmas visiting young cancer patients at the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City.

Roque, however, did not mention Duterte’s possible activities on Christmas Day. This year, Christmas celebrations are expected to be different amid a prevailing global pandemic. (PNA)

As pandemic persists

Vice President Leni Robredo on Christmas Eve urged Filipinos to draw strength from one another as the COVID-19 pandemic persisted, urging her countrymen to connect with their loved ones and reminisce about the times they experienced joy and difficulties this year.

She said “Let’s draw strength from one another. While the pandemic changed how we celebrate Christmas, it cannot diminish the importance of this day because no pandemic or disaster can overcome God’s love...No darkness can lead us astray because we’re each other’s light.

Bayanihan will continue, hope and love will persist. Again, merry Christmas to Filipinos in all corners of the world.”

From the Senate, Senate President Vicente Sotto III, in his Christmas message crafted in Tagalog, said: “Amid the many difficulties we are going through...I pray that we will put to our hearts the essence of Christmas, not in giving of expensive gifts but, on the other hand, a demonstration of love and compassion to our fellowmen.

“May we go through the season in peace.”

From the House of Representatives, Speaker Lord Allan Velasco said Congress had played a significant role in helping the Filipino people cope with the devastating effects of the COVID 19 pandemic.

In his Christmas message, Velasco said “There was a time when all seemed hopeless, and we were left wondering if we will all be able to return to our daily routines. There are those who lost their jobs, while others lost their loved ones. I sincerely sympathize with you in these trying times.

“But there is light at the end of the tunnel, and it is getting brighter. We in Congress are doing everything we can to help us all meet that light...I assure our countrymen that we will do all we can to get us all back to our feet and experience the joy we all once had before this pandemic,” he added.

‘Safe Christmas’ Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta , in his Christmas message , said the Supreme Court wished the Filipino people “a joyful and safe Christmas,” adding “The universal season of joy and spirit of sharing are upon us once more. Traditionally, this is the time when family and friends come together to collectively commemorate the spirit of the Holidays.

“However, festivities this year will

they do the right thing,” Sinas added.

Law enforcers are prone to violate the law as they are unaware of it, former Commission on Human Rights chair Etta Rosales had said, as she urged the government to fund the administration of justice and not just augment police resources.

The PNP will reinstate its anger management program after Police Staff Sgt. Jonel Nuezca shot dead his 2 unarmed neighbors in Tarlac last Sunday, Sinas said.

“Policemen should keep their cool even if the public are cursing at them,” he said.

“We should also focus on the mental

health of not only the police but also the public. We’ve been quarantined for too long, this is part of the advise of our neuropsychologist so we can avoid a similar incident in the future,” the PNP chief added The killing was a “very unfortunate incident,” Sinas said.

“What Nuezca did was very unfortunate, that made us all angry and sad. In spite of the series of reforms and programs we have, the President even hiked our salary and gave us assistance, there are still policemen who do this,” he said`

25, 2020, using face-to-face interviews with 1,500 adults (18 years old and above) nationwide.

The sampling error margins are ±2.5 percent for national percentages, ±4 percent for Balance Luzon, and ±6 percent for Metro Manila, the Visayas, and Mindanao.

Palace officials urged Filipinos to share their blessings with those affected by tragedies and to observe minimum health standards while celebrating Christmas during the pandemic.

In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said while the country has confronted struggles this year, there were “silver linings” that people could be thankful for.

He expressed hope that Christmas this year would be filled with hope, peace, and joy.

“As we celebrate this season, we call upon all Filipinos to remember to share our blessings to our brothers and sisters who have been badly affected by natural or personal tragedies,” Roque said.

He also asked Filipinos to give more compassion, understanding, and patience.

“It is high time that we collectively unite as one nation and one people for a

better Philippines,” Roque said.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Martin Andanar enjoined Filipinos to embody the “bayanihan” spirit by giving to those in need.

“Christmas is the time of the year when we remember and celebrate the Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ,” Andanar said in a separate statement.

“Let us also take time from our merrymaking to solemnly reflect and ponder over the lessons and morals we can learn from the Bible about Christ’s birth, and practice the humility, compassion, and kindness Christ has displayed.”

He also reminded Filipinos to follow health protocols and minimum health standards while spending the holidays with their families at a limited capacity or virtually.

“May everyone keep in mind and observe the necessary health protocols and minimum health standards during the Yuletide season, in line with our fight against COVID-19, for us to heal and recover as one nation,” Andanar said.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the security sector would keep the holidays safe for the public. With PNA

be expectedly different, as we will be observing the season amidst a global health crisis...This crisis has reminded all of us in more ways than one to be grateful for the things we have been blessed with: the company of good friends, the value of good health, and the unconditional love of one’s family.

“May we all strive to (have) this year a genuine celebration of hope, unity, and service for others. And may peace and love for one another reign in our hearts this season and beyond. ” House Majority Leader Martin Romualdez himself said: “ This Yuletide season may not be the most joyous of our holiday celebrations, but this may yet turn out as the most memorable.

“Even with the restrictions and limitations imposed on us to contain the spread of the epidemic, we have managed to survive and perform our missions in life with vigor.

“Our situation today has given us time to pause and reflect on what we have achieved so far and what we still need to do to help improve our people’s lives.

“What I found special is our ability to stand tall despite the adversities and our innate nature to reach out to those in need in times of crisis.”

On her fourth Christmas in detention, Opposition Senator Leila de Lima said she continued to wish for her freedom and vindication from what she called the trumpedup drug charges filed against her.

Aside from her personal wish for Yuletide, De Lima, the most prominent political prisoner under the Duterte regime, said she also wished for a free access to COVID-19 vaccines for all Filipinos and an end to the prevailing culture of violence and impunity in the country.

Procurement of vaccines

‘God is with us’

Despite the series of challenges this year, a Catholic Bishop Broderick Pabillo of Manila said Christmas “is an assurance that God is with the people.”

“We are no strangers to problems and difficulties. We do not know how these can be resolved, or at least averted. But Christmas assures us: God is with us.

God has become man in order to share our journey in this life,” he said in his Christmas message.

“The Immanuel is among us! Yes, we are beset by many problems. Many are still jobless. Uncertainties stare at us in the face. There is anger in the wake of violence, as the senseless killing of the mother and her son in Tarlac, and by a policeman at that. The vaccine which is supposed to be a solution to the pandemic is becoming a source of controversy,” the Manila auxiliary bishop added.

Meanwhile, Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines president Archbishop Romulo Valles is hoping that the country would be able to obtain the vaccine against the coronavirus disease 2019 for the population.

“It is true that there are now several vaccines available against COVID-19.

Not courtesy of Isaiah the prophet, but of the pharmaceuticals Pfizer and Moderna. God willing, our government can soon obtain these vaccines and make them available to our people,” he said in his Christmas message.

Also in the Senate, Sen. Panfilo Lacson said there should be no room for incompetence and ineptitude on the part of government officials, with the early procurement of COVID vaccines amid renewed government efforts to procure them from the United States is the focus of his wish for this Christmas.

“My Christmas wish is simple. I hope we Filipinos survive this pandemic, and we get the needed vaccines soonest,” Lacson said.

But he added the Cabinet, including vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr., should help Health Secretary Francisco Duque III not by defending him in the media but by getting his job done.

He said that if there was something good that came out of Foreign Secretary Safety and healing Teodoro Locsin Jr.’s tweet about someone THE Commission on Human dropping the ball during the initial efforts Rights wished the Filipino people to get vaccines, it was that the attention of safety and healing. those concerned had been called.

“This year, while the coronavirus disease 2019 crisis reminds us of our shared Good health fragility and vulnerabilities, it also unSen. Christopher Go also wishes good derpins how everything and everyone is health for every Filipino amid the COV- truly connected,” lawyer-spokesperson ID-19 pandemic faced by his country- Jacqueline Ann de Guia said. men, stressing the best gift to loved ones “We see that eradicating the pandemic was the gift of good health as expressed in one community will never be achieved his deep-felt gratitude to the medical unless it is done in all communities; that community for their service and sacrifice the success and safety of our frontline in battling the pandemic. workers are linked to our willingness Sen. Nancy Binay-Angeles acknowl- to stay home; and that the efforts of the edged that the year 2020 had been government, civil society, and individual “challenging for all of us but despite citizens must be all guided by a shared the many trials, it is heartening to know commitment to put forward the human that there are Filipinos who are always rights and dignity of everyone in coping willing and ready to lend a hand and a with the health crisis,” she added. heart whenever life gets rough.

She said the CHR echoed the call of “May we always find hope and joy in the United Nations Secretary General celebrating Christmas as we share our António Guterres in his Human Rights hearts full of compassion, and faith. So, Day address that people and human let us share happiness and the love in our rights must be at the front and center of hearts to lift the spirits and improve the response and recovery, and that it was lives of those who have lost their homes, also high time for people to adhere to jobs, livelihood, and loved ones.” universal, rights-based frameworks.

‘Double murder...

From A1 March 8, 2014, at around 3 a.m., the complainant’s son was on his way home on board a tricycle when respondents Nuezca and some fellow police officers forced her son inside a police vehicle.

The tricycle driver was instructed to follow the vehicle to the police station located on C-5, Taguig City.

At the police station, the respondents threatened the complainant’s son and the tricycle driver, saying they would be charged for having in their possession a knife and illegal drugs.

Upon learning that her son was in police custody, the complainant immediately went to the precinct where she was able to talk to Nuezca who demanded P40,000 for the release of her son and the tricycle driver.

Desperate to help her son, she asked for more time and at around 10 a.m., relatives of her son and the tricycle driver went to the police precinct with P10,000.

Nueva and the other respondents denied the allegations and claimed they were patrolling the area when they arrested the complainant’s son and the tricycle driver for being “out of line” and they recovered a deadly weapon and a sachet with white powdery substance.

They said they performed a valid warrantless arrest.

“After a careful evaluation of the evidence on record, the commission en banc ruled that the prosecution met the required quantum of proof required to establish the culpability of the respondents. It bears stressing that the allegations in the complaint were not specifically refuted by respondents,” Malaya said.

The Napolcom found that Nuezca and the other respondents failed to submit corroborating evidence to support their claim that they performed a valid warrantless arrest.

“In that regard, no evidence of a valid arrest was ever submitted by respondents. In fact, there was neither booking sheets nor records in the blotter book presented which can prove that there was indeed a valid warrantless arrest on the persons of complainant’s son and the tricycle driver,” the Napolcom resolution read.

Nuezca is in the custody of the chief of police of Paniqui, Tarlac for the killing of the Gregorios.

He is facing two counts of murder lodged at the Regional Trial Court, Branch 67 of the same town.

The PNP Internal Affairs Service also said it will speed up the dismissal of Nuezca from the service.

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Debold Sinas said on Thursday he conveyed apologies to the family of the woman and her son killed by Nuezca on Sunday as he visited their wake in Paniqui, Tarlac.

He said he also updated the family on the progress of the investigation and let them knowthat the PNP would not tolerate what Nuezca did.

Sinas said he assured them of support from the PNP and gave them some financial assistance.

He said it would take at least a month to investigate whether or not Nuezca should be removed from office.

Sinas said a 12-year-old boy who shot the video of the Dec. 20 killing and a 16-year-old girl he passed it to were “very scared.”

Immigration...

From A1 Morente also appealed to the different airlines and shipping agents not to board aliens who had been to the UK recently.

“We are constrained to implement this to ensure that our healthcare system is given ample time to respond to this latest development on the pandemic,” said Morente.

He added that those who arrive from the UK before December 24 shall be allowed entry, but would be referred to the Bureau of Quarantine and the One Stop Shop for implementation of strict quarantine and testing protocols.

“Filipinos will be allowed to enter the country even aft December 24, but will also be referred to the BOQ and the One Stop Shop,” he stated.

The BI said that following the IATF’s resolution, outbound travel to the United Kingdom remained allowed, subject to the presentation of a confirmed round trip ticket for shortterm our tourist visa holders, travel and health insurance to cover travel disruptions in case of COVID-19 infections during their allowable period of stay abroad, and signing at the ports of a declaration acknowledging the risks involved in traveling, including the risk of delay in their return trip.

The UK consists of four countries, England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

News

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2020 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

A3

Ressa’s motion to visit the US denied by court

By Rey E. Requejo

FIRECRACKERS BAN. A Public Safety Unit worker installs a tarpaulin indicating a total ban on firecrackers and ‘boga’ (improvised cannons) on the light post on the center island along Congressional Road, Dasmarinas City, Cavite on Thursday. The total firecracker ban in the city is aimed at preventing revelry-related injuries among residents. PNA/Gil Calinga

Clark includes terminal charge

By Jess Malabanan

C

LARK FREEPORT — Starting January next year, the terminal fee or passenger service charge for departing passengers at the Clark International Airport will be included in the air fare, airport authorities announced Thursday.

The airline companies and Clark au- for departing passengers in Clark. thorities have begun integrating the terThis began when the management minal fee in the cost of tickets, but only of Luzon Premier Airport Development

Corp., the operator of Clark International Airport, announced that both domestic and international passenger terminal fee would be integrated in the cost of the airline tickets.

A total of 17 airlines signed the Memorandum of Agreement with LIPAD signifying their approval.

During the transition period, passengers are advised to proceed to their respective airline check-in counters to secure a printed boarding pass.

Those who have their terminal fees integrated may proceed directly to the final security check after check-in. For the passengers who bought their tickets before the effectivity date, they may proceed to the payment counters inside the terminal.

Terminal fee exemptions still apply to select individuals, particularly to infants below two years old for both domestic and international flights, and migrant Filipino workers for international flights.

THE Court of Appeals has turned down Rappler CEO Maria Ressa’s appeal to allow her to go to the United States to visit her ailing mother.

In a Dec. 18 resolution, the court’s Special 12th Division said Ressa failed to prove the trip was necessary and urgent, and that there were “exceptional circumstances” to justify the restriction on her right to travel.

Ressa had asked the appellate court to allow her to visit her 76-year-old mother who was diagnosed with breast cancer in October.

In ruling against Ressa’s appeal, the court cited a Supreme Court ruling that a conviction “warrants the exercise of greater caution in allowing a person admitted to bail from leaving the Philippines.”

The court said it considered Ressa’s latest motion to travel as a “continuation” of her second motion, which the court had already dismissed with finality.

The court also ruled that the latest motion amounted to a prohibited second motion for reconsideration.

Besides, the court said, the medical abstract did not have any indication that Ressa was “urgently needed” in the US. “Foremost, the document shows that her mother was seen on telemedicine, which literally means healing at a distance. Also, the attending physician attested that her mother tolerated well the procedure performed on her,” said the resolution written by Associate Justice Geraldine Fiel-Macaraig. Associate Justices Danton Bueser and Carlito Calpatura concurred with the ruling.

The court also said Ressa’s motion included an undisclosed itinerary.

This would be the third time the court, which is handling Ressa’s appeal of her cyber libel conviction in June, denied her plea to leave the country.

Wirecard case’s probe continues

Airport boosts customer service

THE investigation into the $2.1-billion Wirecard controversy will not be completed by the end of this year, Justice Undersecretary Emmeline Aglipay-Villar said Thursday.

Villar said based on the update by the National Bureau of Investigation to the Department of Justice, the agency would continue its probe next year.

“There is no indication that the investigation will be finished before the year’s end,” Villar said in a text message to reporters.

She cited the latest update submitted to the Department of Justice by the NBI on Sept. 4 that it was still doing its probe.

“Subpoenas have been issued against certain persons who may be able to shed light on Wirecard and its business transactions,” Villar said.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said earlier that the NBI had already submitted three partial reports on Wirecard’s former chief operating officer Jan Marsalek’s activities in the Philippines this year.

Guevarra said the NBI was also coordinating with the Anti-Money Laundering Council and “looking into the financial transactions of a law office and a tour operator linked with the local operations of Wirecard in the Philippines.” Rey E. Requejo

By Joel E. Zurbano

Public reminded to manage waste THE Environment department on Friday reminded the public on the proper management of all kinds of waste amid the Christmas celebration despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Because of the pandemic, this holiday season is like no other,” Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu said.

“As we hold a more intimate holiday celebration with our immediate families, let’s be extra careful on the safety of our health and the environment by practicing responsibility and sustainability.”

Cimatu underscored the importance of observing proper waste segregation in households during the time of merriment, gift-giving and feasting.

Waste that need to be segregated include those that are compostable, recyclable, non-recyclable and hazardous waste.

Cimatu says food waste should be under the biodegradable or compostable trash bin, while containers that come with it, such as glasses, cans and plastic bottles should be under the recyclable trash bin.

Rio N. Araja

TRAPPED BY FIRE. The dead bodies of two elderly women were recovered after they were trapped inside their home when a first alarm fire razed a residential area on Moriones Street in Tondo, Manila on Thursday. Norman Cruz

Dismissal of Social Welfare officials upheld THE Court of Appeals has upheld its dismissal of three former officials of the Department of Social Welfare and Development for their involvement in the illegal release of multi-billion-peso pork barrel funds of two former Caloocan lawmakers.

In a resolution dated Dec. 23, 2020, the court’s former Special Second Division denied appellants Mateo Montaño, Pacita Sarino and Vilma Cabrera’ motion for reconsideration for failing to raise new argu-

ments that would warrant the reversal of its decision issued on Feb. 28, 2020.

“This Court finds no new or substantial matters presented to justify a modification or reversal of the assailed decision.

Wherefore, the motion for reconsideration is denied.”

Before their dismissal Montano served as the DSWD undersecretary, Cabrera was an assistant secretary and Sarino was an assistant director.

The petitioners were ordered dismissed by the Office of the Ombudsman after

they were found administratively liable for grave misconduct, serious dishonesty and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.

The anti-graft body also ordered the forfeiture of their retirement benefits, the cancellation of their eligibility and their perpetual disqualification from re-employment in the government service.

The case arose from the administrative complaint filed by the Public Assistance and Corruption Prevention Office in 2015 against the three officials, Rey E. Requejo

THE Customs bureau has opened two more Customer Care centers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport as part of its program to expedite the transactions at the port and get rid of corruption.

The agency inaugurated the two facilities in the Port of NAIA and NAIA Central Mail Exchange Center last Tuesday.

The facility at the Port of NAIA will serve as a One-Stop Shop or central hub for Customs-related transactions at the airport, such as document receiving and releasing, payments, document tracking and general stakeholder information.

The facility at CMEC will house parcel-related transactions such as tracking, shipment information, follow-ups, parcel inquiries and concerns to further assist NAIA stakeholders in managing their businesses at the port.

“Furthermore, both centers aim to support the bureau’s effort to further re-engineer the systems and processes towards a credible and efficient customs service, and to fully implement the no-contact policy to eliminate corruption opportunities,” said Port of NAIA district collector Carmelita Talusan.

Talusan says the CCCs will be manned by a team of professional NAIA Customs Service Officers to ensure the smooth delivery of its services.

“In spite of the onslaught of the coronavirus disease and challenges this 2020, the Port of NAIA and its subport CMEC pursued the construction of the CCCs to enhance the stakeholders’ engagement and to serve as a gratitude to all stakeholders and customs officers who well supported the BOC and the Port of NAIA throughout the year,” Talusan said.

PUV modernization program extended

NATIVITY SCENE. A couple poses for a selfie in front of the Nativity display at the back of the Kartilya ng Katipunan in Manila, on the eve of Christmas on Thursday. Norman Cruz

THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has extended to March 31 next year the deadline for the filing of applications for the consolidation of individual and existing franchise holders provided under the PUV Modernization Program.

The move came in response to the appeal of DUMPER-PTDA Partylist Rep. Claudine Bautista.

The LTFRB recently issued Memorandum Circular 2020-084 to lift the Dec. 31, 2020, deadline for the consolidation of all individual franchise holders into cooperatives or corporations, which is in compliance with the “one route, one operator concept” under the PUVMP. MC-2020-084 was signed on Friday by the LTFRB led by Chairman Martin

Delgra III and Commissioners Ronaldo Corpus and retired Col. Joel C. Pernito.

Bautista, vice chairperson of the House Committee on Transportation, was instrumental in convincing the board to extend the deadline.

Previously, the LTFRB extended to Dec. 31 the filing deadline, or six months after the original July 10, 2020 schedule. This was in response to President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration of a National Health Emergency as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic.

Bautista, in appealing for a new deadline for the full implementation of the PUVMP, said that while the government had been succeeding in its response to the COVID 19 threat, the public transport industry had yet to recover from the adverse effects of the pandemic. Maricel V. Cruz

LGUs

Jimbo Owen Gulle, Editor

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2020 lgu@manilastandard.net editor.lgustandard@gmail.com

LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS

MUNTI-DHSUD PACT: Muntinlupa City Mayor Jaime Fresnedi (seated right) inks a partnership with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development for a housing project to cater mainly to City Government employees. Fresnedi and DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario (seated left) led the Memorandum of Agreement signing ceremony last December 22 at Muntinlupa City Hall. Construction work for the 700-unit housing project is ongoing in the 4.3-hectare land at Lakeview, Brgy. Putatan.

Pasay launches gardening tack THE Pasay City government has launched a program aim to strengthen food security and encourage residents to engage into urban gardening.

Mayor Imelda Rubiano said the program spearheaded by the Pasay City Cooperative Office in coordination with the Department of Science and Technology will benefit city villages and hundreds of residents.

She said the city recognizes the importance of promoting urban agriculture as a measure to address stability of food supply, alleviate poverty, foster social integration among communities, and protect the environment through eco-friendly methods and other alternative and innovative gardening methods.

With the help of DOST’s Gulayan sa Pamayanan program, the project will initially start at Barangay 193 near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport where residents will be trained in the rudiments of urban farming such as hydroponically grown vegetables, nutrition, environment, and waste management.

Among the vegetables that would be planted are pechay, mustard greens (mustasa), tomatoes, lettuce, or plants that can be harvested within 25 to 30 days. Herbal plants such as oregano that can be used to alleviate coughs and colds would also be planted.

“It is our vision under of H.E.L.P. advocacy that we teach our residents how to fish especially during this health crisis,” Rubiano said.

H.E.L.P. stands for (H) Health Care and Housing; (E) Education, Economic Growth and Environment; (L) Livelihood and Lifestyle; at (P) Peace and Order, Palengke at Pamilya. Joel E. Zurbano

DOLE gives work to Sarangani poor THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) recently rolled out its Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program in Sarangani to provide emergency employment to the province’s displaced, underemployed, and seasonal workers.

The 939 qualified beneficiaries were composed mostly tricycle drivers, vendors, construction workers, and overseas Filipino workers affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Beneficiaries in Alabel and Malapatan towns were assigned to work at the Sarangani National Sports Academy (SaNSA) facilities, and will receive P5,000 each at the end of the work period.

With a budget of P5 million, the provincial TUPAD program was facilitated by Sen. Manny Pacquiao, Sarangani Rep. Rogelio Pacquiao, Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon, and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, with the help of DOLE Region 12 and DOLE Field Office - Sarangani.

Parañaque bans firecracker sale, use for holidays

By Joel E. Zurbano THE Paranaque City government has banned the sale and use of firecrackers in the city this holiday season.

Mayor Edwin Olivarez on Wednesday tapped the city’s Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) to immediately revoke the business registration of stores found selling firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices.

In signing Executive Order 2020-63, Olivarez also revoked and cancelled all mayor’s and special permits issued this year to establishments who applied to sell firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices and similar products in the city.

Olivarez, who is the chairman of the Metro Manila - Peace and Order Council, disclosed that it was agreed during last week’s meeting by mayors in the National Capital Region that the use of firecrackers is ban in the metropolis this year.

The resolution is in consonance with the Department of Interior and Local Government memorandum circulars providing the guidelines on the regulation and control of the use of the firecrackers, including the designation of specific areas for community fireworks display.

“In order to sternly discourage mass gathering during the festive season to contain the spread of COVID-19, there is the need to prohibit exhibition and use fireworks, firecrackers, and other pyrotechnic devices during the New Year’s celebration,” according to Olivarez.

The city chief executive said the BPLO, the city treasurer’s office, barangay officials, and local police officials should immediately affect the provisions of his Order.

QC renews call to follow protocols A

By Rio N. Araja

MID the rise in number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the past days, Quezon City government on Friday renewed the call to residents to follow health protocols in helping prevent the virus from spreading.

“Keep in mind that we are all responsible for our health and the health of others around us, particularly our family, friends and loved ones,” she said.

“So, we must act responsibly by obeying all health protocols so we can have a safe and happy Christmas celebration

despite the pandemic,” Belmonte added.

She noted the spike in the average number of daily cases based on the Dec. 22 report from OCTA Research.

From an average of around 90 cases per day from Dec. 9 to 15, the number rose to more than 120 cases per day from

Dec. 16 to 21 based on case reports from the Department of Health.

Dr. Rolando Cruz, City Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance Unit (CESU), head noted the increase in the city’s reproduction rate, which indicates how contagious the infectious disease, to 1.54 on Dec. 20 from 1.50 three days earlier.

The city started the month with reproduction rate of 0.92.

From an average of just 0.79 in November, the city’s average this month is 1.13, far from the ideal number of 0.50 set by the World Health Organization (WHO).

When it comes to positivity rate, Dr. Cruz said the city currently had an average of 8 percent from Dec. 14-20, up

from the 6 percent that was recorded from Dec. 7-13.

The city earlier achieved a positivity rate of 5 percent in three straight weeks from Nov. 16 to Dec. 6.

The WHO recommended a positivity rate of below 5 percent.

Meanwhile, the city conducted an average of 2,197 tests per day from Dec. 1420, higher than the average of 2,102 the previous week.

Joseph Juico, head of QC Task Force on COVID-19, said the city government has boosted its contact tracing capability to 1:24, meaning it could quickly trace more people who had close interaction with possible or confirmed COVID-19 cases.

DA opens seed lab, farm in Clark

By Jess Malabanan

HELPING FARMERS. Metro Retail has provided outlets for Kiboa Ridge Farms, which supports small-scale farmers and farm workers by providing them technical farming assistance, high-quality seeds, and market access for their adlai products. Meanwhile 100% proceeds of GreenEarth Heritage Foundation’s sale of their moringa tea supports communities in Bulacan (pictured) where they maintain sustainable farms and reforestation sites.

Metro Retail helps Kiboa Ridge, GreenEarth farmers MICRO, small, and medium enterprises are not only the backbone of the Philippine economy; they also bring growth to the communities where they are located. For these small businesses and the local communities to thrive and continually adapt, it is crucial for them to receive support and patronage.

In its commitment to support and empower Filipino microentrepreneurs, Cebubased retailer Metro Retail Stores Group, Inc. (MRSGI) has strengthened its existing

CSR partnership with adlai producer Kiboa Ridge Farms, and moringa producer GreenEarth Heritage Foundation.

Through this partnership, MRSGI provides these microentrepreneurs access to a wider market by making their products available in select Metro branches.

Kiboa Ridge Farms takes its name from kibuwa, their chosen variety of adlai. The company developed their products in collaboration with the Northern Mindanao

Integrated Agricultural Research Center (DA-NOMIARC).

“Our adlai is grown in Impasugong, Bukidnon, and harvested by more than forty small-scale farmers and farm workers, whom we provide with high-quality seeds, technical assistance, and market access,” said Patricia de Villa, General Manager of Kiboa Ridge Farms. “Cultivating adlai boosts farmers’ income and allows us to deliver safe and nutritious food to consumers.”

CAPAS, Tarlac—A seed laboratory and a seed production farm will be established at the seven-hectare lot within the New Clark City by the Department of Agriculture as part of the government effort to introduce innovative agricultural technology to farmers in Central Luzon.

The Agro-industrial Business Corridors (ABC) project is a joint undertaking between DA and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) in coming up with an inclusive agri-business hub in this part of the region.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar said the project will attract foreign investment in the agriculture sector.

He said ABC is also part of DA vision to upgrade equipment and game plan to contribute to the country’s economic growth as it seeks to introduce innovative agricultural technology to farmers and provide them access to quality seeds.

“We want to work out what are the component strategies that will make it possible for this country, really being an agriculture country, to unleash its potential as a major pillar of the economy,” Dar said.

PRC honors ‘responsible miner’ Anievas

TUPAD LECTURE. A DOLE officer lectures the 939 qualified beneficiaries of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program in Sarangani, composed mostly tricycle drivers, vendors, construction workers, and overseas Filipino workers affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

THE Philippine Regulation Commission (PRC) has virtually honored their picks for the 2020 Outstanding Professionals, and this year’s honorees include a “responsible miner” – Engr. Jose Bermudez Anievas, the pride of Nickel Asia Corp. (NAC).

PRC, the government agency tasks to enforce the laws regulating various professions in the country, deliberates yearly to select exemplary individuals who have displayed competency to the highest degree in their chosen profession.

Joebby or JBA, as he is known in the mining industry, was chosen as the “2020 Outstanding Professional of the Year in the Field of Mining Engineering” – the highest award by the Commission given to a professional as recommended by peers for demonstrating competence in the highest degree and integrity in the exercise of his Engr. Jose B. Anievas profession.

Opinion Christmas in the time of pandemic

F

protocols through the holiday season.

The OCTA Research Group notes that coronavirus infections have started to climb in parts of Metro Manila— Caloocan, Valenzuela, Malabon, Que-

The pandemic that has infected over 465,000 Filipinos is forcing many to abandon their usual plan of celebrating Christmas in large family gatherings, conscious of a super spreader event that could ultimately overwhelm the country’s healthcare facilities.

The current restrictions in the transportation sector and strict quarantine rules in many provinces are certain to discourage travelers from holding traditional family reunions that typify the celebration of Christmas in the Philippines.

A private research group has already warned of a sharp rise to as much as 4,000 COVID-19 daily cases in Metro Manila after Christmas, if Filipinos lower their guard and ignore the health

zon City and Makati—as well as in neighboring Rizal province and some towns in Bulacan. It fears daily cases in Metro Manila could hit 4,000 by January or February.

The 4,000 figure is the “critical limit” or the trigger that may force health

Police, victims, and a call for change

By Gustavo Gonzalez THE 20 December killing of two unarmed civilians, Sonya and Frank Gregorio, has rightly met with widespread condemnation and ignited the debate about the need for police reform in the Philippines.

There are different views emerging in this public debate. Some see the killings as an isolated incident by a “bad cop” who needs to be prosecuted and removed from the police force.

Others point to lawlessness and lack of respect for the police, contributing to an “us versus them” mentality. Yet others emphasize a policing culture of addressing crime by resorting to violence and abuse of power.

There may be elements of truth in all these views. Allegations are emerging about a string of infractions by the officer involved in the 20 December killings, that were not adequately addressed. There are also strong indications that the Philippine National Police (PNP) has increasingly relied on the use of force in recent years, resulting in thousands of killings according to the PNP’s own statistics. Every life and family impacted is precious. But this high number of killings is, in itself, a broader, institutional concern.

The police officer involved in the 20 December incident was caught on camera, and promptly detained and charged. However, in the majority of cases where there are allegations of human rights violations, there are no

EVERYMAN

cameras. Perpetrators are not always brought to justice, and victims are left behind, with a sense of fear and powerlessness. This feeds the conspiracy of silence, where police officers do not report when the rules are broken, and this, in turn, creates an environment in which abuse of power can escalate. Consistency and fairness in addressing infractions and violations, rather than the imposition of the death

Preventing such killings and ensuring accountability must be our foremost priority. penalty, is likely to strengthen the rule of law.

In recent weeks, a number of killings, by unknown assailants, of individuals playing a role in protecting their communities have been reported. The killing of two human rights activists in August, of a journalist in November; the killing of two lawyers in Cebu in November and December, respectively, and of a doctor and her husband on 16 December are among the most recent such cases. This impacts negatively on security and development.

Human rights treaties which the Philip-

pines has ratified provide clear guidance for addressing these challenges. And cooperation between the Philippines and the UN in areas such as strengthening domestic accountability mechanisms and data gathering can help contribute to a policing culture that seeks to protect its citizens, particularly the most vulnerable, while also recognizing the important and challenging work police officers face in carrying out their duties.

The Human Rights Council resolution adopted by consensus on 7 October of this year, with the support of the Government of the Philippines and a large number of member states, has provided a basis for such cooperation.

Since the adoption of the Human Rights Council Resolution, the UN has actively engaged with civil society organizations, the National Human Rights Commission of the Philippines and a range of different Government actors to set the basis of an ambitious programme. However, we should agree that the success of technical cooperation greatly relies on the existence of an enabling environment, with strong commitment to change.

The killing of Sonya and Frank Gregorio impacts on all of us. Preventing such killings and ensuring accountability must be our foremost priority. *Gustavo Gonzalez is the United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Philippines

Engineering a presidency

By Melandrew Velasco A POPULAR topic next year aside from the COVID-19 vaccine will be the 2022 presidential elections.

Today, months prior to the filing of Certificates of Candidacy in October 2021, many names have been floated around to succeed President Rodrigo Duterte.

In the recent issue of BizNews Magazine, publisher Tony Lopez listed several presidentiables that included Senators Ping Lacson, Grace Poe, Manny Pacquiao, Bong Go, and Cynthia Villar; Davao City Sara Duterte; Vice President Leni Robredo; and former Senator Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. One other prominent name that was among the presidentiables is San Miguel Corporation President and COO Ramon See Ang, popularly called nowadays as RSA. Should he decide to run, he will become the second honcho of one of the country’s largest and diversified conglomerates to throw his hat into the ring. His mentor and friend, the late SMC Chairman of the Board and CEO Eduardo Cojuangco, Jr., was a presidential candidate in 1992.

In the event that he throws his hat in the presidential race and wins, RSA who is a mechanical engineer, will become the second engineer by profession to become the country’s chief executive after former President

caused by COVID-19.

The strong determination of a leader is needed to undertake reforms that meet strong resistance.

Under RSA, SMC leads other private organizations in the assistance it has given government and the public during this difficult time. It has spent over P13 billion in to support government to contain the pandemic.

It has provided food packs, distributed nutria-buns, donated medical equipment and supplies, conducted blood donation drive, and put up testing booths.

“For as long as there’s a pandemic and, we will not stop looking for ways that San Miguel can help out,” RSA said.

The compassion RSA has for his fellowmen was again evident when strong typhoons devastated parts of Luzon last month.

SMC sent food donations to Cagayan, Isabela, Bulacan, Pangasinan, Pampanga, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Sorsogon, Batangas, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, Marinduque, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Albay, and Romblon.

Malabon, Manila, Marikina, and Navotas were also recipients of its food donations.

“We want our kababayans to know that we stand with them, and we will do everything we can to help,” RSA said.

“It’s a challenge to reach many areas, but with help of our employees, partners, and lo-

Fidel V. Ramos, a civil engineer.

RSA has proven himself an exemplary business executive. He is responsible for the phenomenal growth of San Miguel Corporation from a purely food and beverage company to a business entity with varied investments and interests. He has the foresight and decisiveness to guide SMC to the stature it now enjoys.

Despite the pandemic, SMC remains aggressive with its investment projects, not putting on hold its expansion. “You separate the men and the boys,” he has said.

Or, a leader like RSA According to RSA, in a crisis, there is always an opportunity. The expansion projects generate more job opportunities for the people who are in dire need of livelihood.

If a business organization is a microcosm of the Philippine society, then a person like RSA is what it needs to achieve its goals. This leadership challenge is now more pronounced with economic recovery being the lynchpin for 2021 and beyond brought about by the global financial crisis

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2020

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more than a thousand years ago. The judge shall do no unrighteousness in judgment and will judge all people equally (Leviticus 19: 15). Judges shall not pervert justice. They shall not show partiality, and shall not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and subverts the cause of the righteous (DeuLEGAL minds and political nitpickers have teronomy 16:19).

The New Code of Judicial Conduct prosaid much about the Rule of Law. For those in power, it may be a convenient tool to perpetu- vides that Judges and members of their famiate it; while for the minority who were once in lies shall neither ask for, nor accept, any gift, power, the Rule of Law is a necessary imple- bequest, loan or favor in relation to anything ment to maintain the balance of power in an done or to be done or omitted to be done by him or her in connection with the perforunequal political environment.

But for the oppressed, underprivileged and mance of judicial duties (Canon 4, Section marginalized, the Rule of Law guarantees the 13).

Judges shall not knowingly permit court protection of their rights, equal treatment and a fair application of the law. Former President staff or others subject to their influence, diRamon Magsaysay’s slogan aptly capsulized rection or authority, to ask for, or accept, any the equalizing effect of the law—“those who gift, bequest, loan or favor in relation to anything done or to be done or omitted to be have less in life should have more in law.”

What really is the Rule of Law? The rule of done in connection with their duties or funclaw is a principle of governance in which all tions (Canon 4, Section 14).

Republic Act No. 3019 otherwise known persons, institutions and entities, public and private, including the State itself, are account- as the “Anti Graft and Corrupt Practices Act” mandates that able to laws that are it shall be a corrupt publicly promulgated, Despite these practice and unlawful equally enforced and for public officers to independently adjudiclear legal and directly or indirectly cated, and which are biblical proscriptions, request or receive any consistent with intergift, present, share, national human rights some continue percentage, or benenorms and standards to render unjust fit, for himself or for (https://www.doj.gov. any other person, in ph/philippine-develjudgments or give connection with any opment-forum.html). false testimony. contract or transIn the same definiaction between the tion, it also requires Government and any measures to ensure adherence to the principles of supremacy of other party. (Section 3 [b]).

It is also unlawful for a public officer to law, equality before the law, accountability to the law, fairness in the application of the agree to perform an act constituting a crime, law, separation of powers, participation in in connection with the performance of this decision-making, legal certainty, avoidance official duties, in consideration of any offer, of arbitrariness and procedural and legal promise, gift or present received by such transparency (https://www.doj.gov.ph/philip- officer, personally or through the mediation of another (Article 210, Revised Penal Code pine-development-forum.html).

In the Courts of the United States, the defi- [RPC]). This crime is commonly known as nition of the Rule of law is similar if not iden- bribery of a public officer.

If the gifts offered to and accepted by a tical to that of the Philippines. Their courts play an integral role in maintaining the rule public officer are by reason of his office, the of law, particularly when they hear the griev- crime committed is indirect bribery (Article ances voiced by minority groups or by those 211, RPC). A person who corrupts a public who may hold minority opinions (https:// officer by making offers or promises or gives www.uscourts.gov/educational-resources/ gifts or presents shall commit the crime of Corruption of Public Officials (Article 212, educational-activities/overview-rule-law).

The concept of the Rule of Law traces its RPC).

Knowingly rendering an unjust judgroots to as far back as Aristotle, who formulated the idea of “whether it was better to be ment or one rendered by a judge through ruled by the best of man or the best laws.” negligence is punishable. (Articles 204-205, However, Montesquieu’s work on the Rule RPC). Even malicious delays in the adminof Law is best known in connection with istration of justice by a judge exposes him to his insistence on the separation of powers— liability (Article 207, RPC).

It is a Biblical ordinance that we shall not particularly the separation of judicial power from the executive and legislative authorities spread a false report and join hands with a (https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/rule-of- wicked man to be a malicious witness. (Exodus 23:1). One of the imperatives of the Ten law/) On the other hand, Dicey advanced that the Commandments of God is that we shall not Rule of Law was legal equality “[w]ith no man bear false witness against our neighbor (Deuabove the the law [and] every man, whatever be teronomy 5:20).

Making false testimony for or against a his rank or condition, is subject to the ordinary law of the realm and amenable to the jurisdic- defendant in civil cases is unlawful (Articles tion of the ordinary tribunals.” He further said 180-182, RPC). False testimony also includes that “[n]o man is punishable or can be lawfully knowingly offering a false witness or testimade to suffer in body or goods except for a mony in any judicial or official proceeding distinct breach of law established in the ordi- (Article 184, RPC).

However, the most common crime of this nary legal manner before the ordinary Courts of the land” (https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/ nature is perjury. Perjury is committed when a person knowingly makes untruthful staterule-of-law/) In the Bible, Moses sat to be the judge of ments under oath, or an affidavit of any mathe people after being delivered from Egypt; terial matter which the law requires before a and the people stood by Moses from morning person authorized to administer oath (Article until the evening (Exodus 18:13). His father 183, RPC).

Despite these clear legal and biblical proin law then advised him that he will surely wear away, for this is too heavy for him; [he scriptions, some continue to render unjust is] not able to perform it alone (Exodus 18:18). judgments or give false testimony. These irAs early as in the time of Moses, there was regular practices ruin the judicial system and a need for able men – such as those who fear erode the trust and faith of the public.

If not strictly observed, the Rule of Law will God, who are honest, and do not covet. These are the people who deserved to rule and judge be an empty principle that cannot be upheld. It is undeniable even to those who reject the Rule over thousands, He said (Exodus 18: 21).

The expectation that a judge shall render of Law that regardless of who you are, you are a fair and just judgment is true now as it was under the fold of the law.

authorities to place the national capital region back under the stricter and dreaded modified enhanced community lockdown, which occurred in August when COVID-19 infections swamped hospitals.

But Filipinos usually find a way to mark the holiday season despite rigid health protocols and mobility restrictions. Extended family members, including young children, will gather to celebrate the holiday no matter what. Filipinos will still observe the Christmas traditions of salu-salo, or family get-together, and giving aguinaldo to children and close relatives.

For others, the celebration may be muted and devoid of the usual fanfare, perhaps because of the harsh economic conditions caused by the pandemic. Many have lost their jobs or been forced to accept lower pay just to survive. They will have to observe the Christmas season in a new normal and under trying and unpalatable conditions.

A private research group has already warned of a sharp rise to as much as 4,000 COVID-19 daily cases in Metro Manila after Christmas.

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

The rule of law and the Bible

EDITORIAL ILIPINOS today will celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ in an austere fashion and a less festive mood.

Adelle Chua, Editor

cal government units, we’ve been able to send out our assistance,” he added.

Accountability, a leadership quality, was noticeably displayed by RSA when a girder between two Skyway extension project posts fell, killing a motorist and injuring occupants of vehicles that were hit. SMC is the concession holder of the Skyway extension project.

Even with a contractor handling construction, the concession holder will still take responsibility for taking care of the victims,” RSA stated. “I would like to personally apologize to the victims and their families, as well as to our larger community in Muntinlupa.”

According to RSA, SMC and its contractor EEI, would make sure that stricter measures are in place at the project site. “We will find out where lapses occurred and do whatever is necessary to make sure they don’t happen again.”

There are few leaders who have the courage to accept responsibility. We read of leaders who refuse to adhere to the principle of command responsibility. They have eroded people’s confidence in government.

Our country needs a leader who is decisive and compassionate; a leader who can be accountable; a leader like RSA. Despite the growing clamor for him to run, RSA maintains he has no political ambitions, not even plans of running even for barangay captain.

His supporters are upbeat despite RSA’s reluctance to join the political fray but nothing is certain until October 2021 when the presidential derby officially begins.

The writer is the official biographer of the FVR family. He has authored at least 50 coffee-table books.

MORE OPINION ONLINE (www.manilastandard.net) The faculty for gratitude

The meaning of Christmas

No ceasefire

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher ManilaStandard

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Britain, EU countries announce Brexit deal BRITAIN and the European Union were expected to announce a Christmas Eve trade deal Thursday after 10 months of Brexit talks dragged out over yet another late night session.

The two sides had hoped to unveil the accord on Wednesday, and the front pages of several British newspapers already proclaimed victory for Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

But EU member states had a number of questions about the text and cross-Channel diplomacy continued through the night, with Johnson and Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen expected to announce a breakthrough shortly after dawn.

An EU source told AFP that “if all goes well” the two leaders should talk by phone in the morning to seal the deal, however this appeared to get pushed back due to last minute haggling over fishing quotas.

“There is a fight over the numbers, and that is a bad sign,” one European source said, while another added that “negotiations are still not finished”.

The last-minute delays came after European officials had confidently told journalists on Wednesday afternoon: “We are in the final phase.”

Diplomatic sources said member states, in particular France, had pressed the Commission to go back to the British camp to seek specific guarantees on parts of the accord.

The British pound and Asian markets were rising on the LEGAL NOTICE expectation of a Notice is hereby given that the deal, and a French estate of the late FLORANTE T. SANTOS was extrajudicially government source settled among his heirs said UK negotiators as per: Acknowledgement dated 1 Oct. 2016 of Notary had made “huge Yolanda Nicole Givens & Doc. No. AUT-16-10315, S. 2016 concessions” on (Service No. 23967) of Consul Katrina Isabelle Borja-Martin, fisheries -the key Washington DC USA; and Acknowledgement dated 3 sticking point as the Oct. 2016 of Notary Balvinder Kumar & Doc. No. 10378-16, clock ticks down to S. 2016 (Service No. 24490) Britain’s departure. of Dep. Consul General Jesusa Susana V. Paez, AFP Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

(MS-DEC. 11,18 & 25, 2020)

NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION OF HOME CARE TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT CENTER, INC. Notice is hereby given that on a Board Resolution of Home Care Training and Assessment Center, Inc., the company is thereby dissolving its registration with Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) effective December 17, 2020.

All person having claims against the corporation are requested to contact the Corp. Secretary at Blk 11-A Lot 3, NTRA Taugtog, Botolan, Zambales for immediate settlement.

This announcement will serve as a notice to all parties concerned of the legal dissolution of the said corporation.

Manila, Philippines, 17 December 2020.

(Sgd) Dina D. Cruzado Corp. Secretary (MS-DEC. 18,25 & JAN. 1, 2021)

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT National Capital Judicial Region Branch 223, Quezon City IN THE MATTER OF THE CORRECTION OF ENTRIES IN THE CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH OF JOHNMARK NAZARIO VILLANUEVA, Petitioner, -versus-

SPEC. PRO. CASE NO. R-QZN-19-14018-SP

LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF QUEZON CITY; THE CIVIL REGISTRAR GENERAL; NEMESIO R. VILLANUEVA, JR. AND JOAN SOLDEVILLA HAMMOND (MARIE JOAN C. NAZARIO), Respondents. x---------------------------------------------------x

AMENDED ORDER This is a verified petition for Correction of Entries in the Certificate of Liver Birth of Johnmark Nazario Villanueva dated September 13, 2019, filed by the petitioner through counsel.

The petition alleges that the Respondents Spouses Nemesio R. Villanueva Jr., and Joan Soldevilla Hammond (Marie Joan C. Nazario) are the parents of the petitioner, Johnmark Nazario Villanueva; that he was born on July 19, 1999 with the name “Johnmark Nazario Villanueva” but his middle name was erroneously entered as “Nazario”; that the fact of his birth was reported, recorded, and registered at the Local Civil Registrar of Manila; that on May 30, 1997, his parents Nemesio R. Villanueva Jr. and Joan Soldevilla Hammond (Marie Joan C. Nazario) were married at Quezon City Hall; that his mother was born on April 3, 1968 to Alfred Milton Hammond and Evangeline Soldevilla Hammond; that since the birth of his mother, she was reared and taken cared of by Betty C. Nazario; that her mother was made to believe that she was legally adopted by Betty C. Nazario, hence since childhood she has been using the name Marie Joan C. Nazario in her school records from grade school to college; that when his mother, Joan Soldevilla Hammond (Marie Joan C. Nazario) was about to get married, she found out that she was not legally adopted by Betty C. Nazario; that she had no birth certificate in the name of Marie Joan C. Nazario, hence she applied and was issued a late registered Certificate of Live Birth in the name Marie Joan (First Name) Sta. Cruz (Middle Name) Nazario (Last Name) on June 27, 1996; that when she got married she used the name Marie Joan C. Nazario; that since childhood up to the present, petitioner Johmark Nazario Villanueva has been using his middle name as Nazario, believing that his mother was legally adopted with the name Marie Joan C. Nazario; that the filing of this Petition will not unduly prejudice the State or any third person because the same could only reflect the true facts and other personal circumstances concerning the Petitioner.

Petitioner also prays of this Honorable Court that after due notice, publication, and hearing, judgment be rendered directing the respondents to correct the following entries appearing in the Petitioner’s Certificate of Live Birth, to wit: i.

World

TODAY FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2020 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Trump vetoes defense fund bill U

S PRESIDENT Donald Trump vetoed a broad defense funding bill sent to him by Congress Wednesday, complaining that it helps Russia and China and objecting to provisions to rename military bases.

FISHING DEAL. The crew of the trawler ‘Good Fellowship’ process the day’s catch after berthing in Eyemouth Harbour in the

Scottish Borders on December 16, 2020. Scottish fishermen specialising in shellfish destined for the tables of some of Europe’s top restaurants and hotels fear that extra red tape at Channel ports from January 1 when the UK leaves the Single Market will slow down the supply chain and put their lucrative but perishable cargo at risk. AFP

Austria allows 400 ski stations to open AUSTRIA allowed its more than 400 ski stations to open on Thursday, just two days before the country enters its third nationwide coronavirus lockdown.

At the beginning of this month the government announced it was allowing ski stations to open on December 24, and has stuck by the decision even after a third lockdown was announced last week.

As an outdoor sport, the government says skiing can be practised safely if sufficient precautions are taken.

However, hotels, bars and restaurants remain closed, effectively limiting the slopes to locals, while the lockdown will also force the country’s shops and much of its service industry to close until mid-January.

“This is a first step, and we hope that we can fully open soon -- as soon as the infection rates allow for it,” Andreas Steibl, head of tourism for the

Ischgl resort, told AFP in a recent interview.

Ishcgl gained infamy as the resort where thousands of international skiers got infected in one of Europe’s first, large-scale outbreaks in March.

Like most other ski resorts in Austria, Ischgl draws tens of thousands of people each year.

The skiing industry accounts for close to three percent of Austria’s total GDP and is politicially well-connected.

Disinfection devices For example, the head of the association of cable car operators also sits as a member of parliament for the governing centre-right People’s Party (OeVP) of Chancellor Sebastian Kurz.

In the western province of Tyrol, skiing is one of the main economic drivers, with six million skiers flocking there each year, roughly eight for every local.

Without tourists, many resorts have

Manila

Standard

TODAY

RESOLUTION

SUBJECT

:

No.

:

2020-033

Date

:

December 2, 2020

Adoption of the Philippine Financial Reporting Standard 16–Leases, by all Government Corporations classified as Commercial Public Sector Entities (CPSEs)

WHEREAS, Section 2(2), Article IX-D of the 1987 Constitution vests on the Commission on Audit (COA) the exclusive authority to promulgate accounting and auditing rules and regulations; WHEREAS, Chapter 2, Section 25(4) of Presidential Decree No. 1445, or the Government Auditing Code of the Philippines, mandates the COA to promulgate accounting and auditing rules and regulations; WHEREAS, Section 9 of COA Resolution No. 2008-012 dated October 10, 2008 created the Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (PSAcSB) to assist the Commission in formulating and implementing public sector accounting standards; WHEREAS, COA Circular No. 2015-003 dated April 16, 2015 classified all Government Corporations (GCs) and other entities/instrumentalities with corporate powers as Government Business Enterprises (GBEs) or Non-GBEs, for the purpose of determining the applicable financial reporting framework in the preparation of their financial statements and provided guidelines therefor;

Item no. 1 – middle name of the petitioner should be “Hammond,” and Item no. 6 – middle name of the mother should be “Soldevilla” and the last name should be “Hammond,”

WHEREAS, GCs classified as GBEs shall apply as their financial reporting framework the Philippine Financial Reporting Standards (PFRS), which are adopted by the Financial Reporting Standards Council (FRSC) of the Philippines based on the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB);

WHEREFORE, finding the verified petition to be sufficient in form and substance, the same is set for hearing on January 15, 2021 at 8:30 in the morning, Session Hall of Branch 223 of this Court, at which date and time, petitioner and counsel are directed to appear to substantiate the allegations of the petition and for any interested persons may appear and show cause why the petition should not be granted.

WHEREAS, in the adoption of the 2018 Edition of the Handbook of International Public Sector Accounting Pronouncements (HIPSAP), the International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board replaces the term “GBE” with the term “CPSE” and acknowledges that regulators can interpret the term “CPSE” taking account of jurisdictional factors;

j.

Let a copy of this Amended Order be published at the expense of the petitioner in a newspaper of general circulation to be selected by raffle pursuant to Presidential Decree No. PD 1079, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks prior to the date of hearing.

Let a copy of this Amended Order together with copies of the Petition and its annexes be furnished on the Office of the Solicitor General; and the Civil Registrar of Quezon City; and the Registrar General, Philippine Statistics Authority (formerly National Statistics Office), who are directed to file their opposition to the petition within fifteen (15) days from the last date of publication of this Order.

Parties and counsels are directed to submit within five (5) days from receipt of this Order, their contact numbers and e-mail addresses where the Court may send notices, Orders, and other court processes. They are likewise directed to manifest their willingness to conduct the presentation of the evidence in chief through video conferencing using the Microsoft Teams Application.

WHEREAS, IASB issued IFRS 16–Leases, which was subsequently adopted by the FRSC as PFRS 16–Leases, for application in the Philippines and is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019 superseding the International Accounting Standard 17–Leases, International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee 4–Determining whether an Arrangement contains a Lease, Standing Interpretations Committee (SIC) 15–Operating Leases-Incentives, and SIC 27–Evaluating the Substance of Transactions Involving the Legal Form of a Lease; NOW, THEREFORE, this Commission resolves, as it does hereby resolve, to adopt PFRS 16–Leases under the financial reporting framework being used by GCs classified as GBEs. FURTHER, this Commission resolves that henceforth the term GBE shall be effectively replaced with CPSE and that all GCs classified as CPSEs that have not taken into consideration the early application of the provisions of PFRS 16 shall mandatorily apply the provisions of PFRS 16.

This Resolution takes effect on January 1, 2020.

Done this 2nd day of December at Quezon City, Philippines.

MICHAEL G. AGUINALDO Chairperson

SO ORDERED. Given in Chambers.

Quezon City, Philippines, October 19, 2020.

ROLAND C. PONDOC Commissioner

(Sgd.) HON. CARIDAD M. WALSE-LUTERO Presiding Judge (MStandard - Dec. 18, 25 & Jan. 1, 2020)

said that grooming the slopes and operating the lifts won’t be economically viable, and some, like Ischgl, are opting to open only a small section of their network of cable cars and lifts.

After the pandemic cut the last ski season short -- which led to a drop of a million ski tourists in the western province of Tyrol alone -- resorts invested millions of euros in disinfection devices for cable cars, masks for skiers and even apps that help the skiers spread out and avoid crowds.

Ischgl alone says it spent 700,000 euros ($853,000) on Covid-19 safety measures, now boasting its own Covid testing stations and a lab, and monitoring waste water for traces of the virus.

Neighboring Switzerland has allowed some ski resorts to open, but the industry there has been hard hit by quarantine orders slapped on British visitors, who normally make up a large part of its clientele, as well as a flight ban from the UK. AFP

(MS-DEC. 25, 2020)

China suspends flights from UK over new strain CHINA on Thursday suspended flights to and from Britain after it reported a new, more infectious strain of the coronavirus.

China has largely curbed the spread of Covid-19 within its borders, but authorities remain highly vigilant about the threat of “imported” virus cases.

“Given the exceptional nature of the virus mutation and its potential impact ...

China has suspended flights between China and the UK after full assessment,” foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said at a routine briefing.

As fears rose over the new virus strain, Ireland, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium halted UK flights earlier this week.

Turkey and Canada have also banned incoming flights from Britain indefinitely.

China has already imposed strict entry requirements to curb the spread of the coronavirus and last month banned foreign arrivals from a number of countries including Britain, Belgium, India and the Philippines.

International carriers are largely limited to one flight per week per foreign city. The new flight ban will prevent Chinese nationals based in Britain from returning to China.

AFP

The bipartisan bill was passed by high enough margins in both chambers of Congress for lawmakers to—in theory—override the president’s rejection.

The veto of the $740 billion measure to fund the military for fiscal 2021 came a day after the US leader, with less than one month left in office, threw a separate $900 billion Covid-19 relief bill and overall funding for the government into question.

Trump criticized the annual National Defense Authorization Act for not responding to his demand to end liability protections for social media companies, known as Section 230 -- an issue with no relationship to the US Defense Department.

He also objected to a provision in the NDAA to rename military bases bearing the names of generals from the secessionist, slavery-supporting South in the 19th century US civil war.

And he objected to a provision which could impede his decision to sharply cut US troop levels in Germany, Afghanistan and elsewhere.

The NDAA “fails to include critical national security measures, includes provisions that fail to respect our veterans and our military’s history, and contradicts efforts by my administration to put America first in our national security and foreign policy actions,” Trump said in a statement.

Without the changes to Section 230, Trump said, the NDAA “is a ‘gift’ to China and Russia.”

The Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi slammed Trump’s veto as “an act of recklessness that harms our troops, endangers our security & undermines the will of Congress.”

Both the House and the Senate set aside time next week to vote to override the veto -- which would be the first such rebuff from Congress in Trump’s nearly four years in office. AFP

IN BRIEF Costa Rica receives first batch of coronavirus vaccines COSTA Rica received its first batch of coronavirus vaccines late Wednesday and planned to start vaccinations the following day, joining Mexico among the first Latin American countries to begin mass immunization campaigns.

“Tomorrow the first Costa Ricans will be vaccinated,” President Carlos Alvarado said at a news conference.

“It is positive news for our country because it may be the beginning of the end of this pandemic,” he added.

The Costa Rican leader was at Juan Santamaria airport in the capital San Jose to greet the flight that delivered the first 9,750 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, which arrived at 9:00 pm (0300 GMT on Thursday).

Costa Rica last week announced it had approved the vaccine, though it said at the time a supply would not be available until the first quarter of 2021.

Health workers and the elderly will be the first to receive jabs.

“It is not an immediate end, this will take more time and we have to continue to take care of ourselves,” the president added. AFP

Mexico first Latin American country to receive vaccine MEXICO on Wednesday became the first Latin American country to receive coronavirus vaccines for mass immunization against a disease that has had a devastating impact across much of the region.

The government plans to start inoculations on Thursday after the first 3,000 doses produced by US pharmaceutical giant Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech arrived by courier plane from Belgium.

The vaccines were whisked to a military installation in the south of Mexico City, guarded by a security escort to prevent them from falling into the hands of the country’s powerful criminal gangs.

“Today is the beginning of the end of this pandemic,” Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard told reporters at the airport.

Mexico has registered nearly 120,000 Covid-19 deaths and around 1.34 million infections, according to the authorities, who acknowledge that the actual toll is probably much higher.

Mexico City and surrounding areas last week announced a new suspension of all non-essential activities, warning that hospitals were in danger of being overwhelmed by a spike in the number of cases. AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

CYAN

Business

B3

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2020 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

EU, UK set to announce post-Brexit trade deal

AsianBusiness stock markets, poundB3 climb in pre-Christmas rally

the night, weekend. with Johnson and Comholiday mission chief Ursula von der Leyen

monthsbank, of painful, Inc.,After the biggest slipped 1stuttering percent talks, London and Brussels appeared to P106.80. on the verge of signing an agreement as The rest of Asian markets mostly they eventually found common ground rose Wednesday following two days on key sticking points. of The selling, while were investors appeared two sides working on the initially unfussed Trump final details of a after deal Donald early Thursday, ahead of hoped would called a what new negotiators stimulus package “a be a pre-dawn breakthrough, helped to by disgrace” and told US lawmakers

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

H flat; Security Bank up Market ends S ONG KONG—The pound extended gains Thursday and BRUSSELS, Belgium―Britain and the European Union were expected to equity markets mostly rose announce a Christmas Eve trade deal in a pre-Christmas rally as Thursday after ten months of Brexit Britain the phone European talks dragged over yetflat another late third majorand mobil company, tocksoutclosed night session.

4.8 percent to P8.70, while Union finally homed in on The two sides had hoped Wednesday in to unveil advanced Security Bank Corp., the seventh biggest a Brexit trade deal, while the accord on Wednesday, and the lackluster trading, with lender in terms of assets, climbed 4.7 front pages of several British newstraders brushed off concerns percent to P138.70. papers already proclaimed victory for gains capped by concerns about US stimulus Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

PLDT the Inc., the largest over a possible increase in telecommunications But EU member states had a number package after Donald firm, rose 1.3 of questions about the text and crossTrump slammed it. percent to P1,350, but BDO Unibank COVID-19 cases during the Channel diplomacy continued through

expected to announce breakthrough The Philippine StockaExchange Index shortlyjust after1.99 dawn. added points, or 0.03 percent, An EU source told AFP that “if all to 7,204.38 on two a value turnover of talk P6.9 goes well” the leaders should billion.

Gainers beatGMT losers,to138 90, by phone at 0700 sealtothe agreement. with 43 issues unchanged.

“It will hopefully be an earlythe start Dito CME Holdings Corp., the

“Brexit work will continue throughout the night,” EC spokesman Eric Mamer tweeted just in the early hours.

“Grabbing some sleep is recommended to all Brexit-watchers at this point. It will hopefully be an early start tomorrow morning.”

An EU amend it. source told AFP that “if all goes well,” the shouldhave talk by phone Equitiestwo andleaders oil prices taken a at 0700 GMT to seal the agreement. hit recently as virus cases surged across A French government source said UK the planet andhad a new more“huge transmissible negotiators made concesstrain was reported in the UK, point forcingof sions” on fisheries—the main governments impose tightuprestrictions conflict that to was holding an agreement ahead of Britain’s departure at the and lockdowns to contain the disease end of next week. over the festive period.

Sterling, which swung wildly The worrying spikehasin infections has in recent weeks as the talks ebbed and overshadowed the rollout of vaccines flowed, extended Wednesday’s rise of and news thepercent start ofagainst the week more thanatone the that dolCongress had finally hammered an lar, while it was also holding out similar gains against thepackage euro. worth around economic rescue “So, the never-ending ebb and flow of $900 billion.

Brexit headline roistering might of finally “So much of the good news the see closure on the most widely contestvaccine had been already digested and ed divorce in the history of humanity,” said Axi strategist Stephen Innes.

Optimism that the long-running saga

could be at its endgame also provided a lift to European equities and Asia followed suit with all markets but Shanghai in positive territory.

However, Hong Kong’s gains were weighed by a fall of more than eight percent in Alibaba after China said it had a probe e-comevenlaunched the stimulus bill into that the people had merce titan for “suspected monopolistic largely anticipated,” Joanne Feeney of practices,” authorities were said also Advisors while Capital Management holding “supervisory and guidance” on Bloomberg TV. financial services talks with the firm’s “So some of the flattening of the subsidiary Ant Group. market just reflects howearly much Several markets closed for has the Christmas holidays. already been built into the market from Equity gains, tethered those two goodhowever, sources remain of news.” by ongoing concerns about the surge in However, Hong Kong, Tokyo, virus infections around the world that are Shanghai, Sydney,toSeoul, and forcing governments imposeTaipei fresh conJakarta were all in positive territory tainment measures, offsetting hopes for after recent losses, while Wellington the rollout of vaccines.

Analystsgains. said Singapore that while extended fell.Trump’s outburst a $900-billion stimuNew against York stock futures dropped, lus agreement was holding up help for though, after Trump’s outburst against American families, the general consenthis week’s stimulus agreement. sus is that a package will eventually be The outgoing president slammed passed, and possibly with more cash the package asAFP not having enough for handouts.

With

tomorrow morning,” European Coma series of talks between Prime Minister mission spokesman Eric Mamer Boris Johnson and European Commistweeted just after midnight, advising sion chief Ursula von der Leyen.

American families and told Congress reporters and diplomats alike to grab some sleep as the finishing touches to rethink it, raising the possibility of were applied. it being held up until after Christmas.

Several hours earlier, European of“It really is a disgrace,” he said in a ficials had confidently told journalists: video message posted on Twitter.

“We are in the final phase.”

But diplomatic sources said member “I am asking Congress to amend states, in particular France, had wantthis bill and increase the ridiculously ed to the Commission to go back to the low $600 to $2,000, or $4,000 for a British camp to seek specific guarancouple,” he added, referring to relief tees on parts of the accord. cheques being prepared.

The British pound and Asian markets were rising on the expectation of a “I’m also asking Congress to deal, and a French government source immediately get rid of the wasteful said UK negotiators had made “huge and unnecessary items from this concessions” on fisheries―the key legislation, and just send me a suitable sticking point as the clock ticks down bill.” to Britain’s departure.

The last-gasp deal, if it is confirmed, OANDA’s Jeffrey Halley said: would come just days before Britain “Asia’s first reaction appears to be is set to leave the EU’s single market that President Trump is bluffing, or at the end of the year, sparing the two that even if Trump vetoes the fiscal sides from trade tariffs.

A deal―which would still need to stimulus, Congress will act quickly be translated and tidied up by lawwith the necessary votes” to override yers―could be approved provisionhis veto. ally before the cut-off date and then “Given that many Congressional scrutinized by EU lawmakers in the representatives have probably already new year to avoid a cliff-edge.

The focus in talks had shifted since left Washington DC for the holidays, Monday to cross-Channel calls bethat could be complacent. For now, tween Johnson and von der Leyen afBUSY MARKET. A customer looks at an assortment of seafood in the freezer window display at Pine River Fish Market in Revere, markets appear to be holding off LOCKED DOWN. A giant illuminated Santa Claus decoration stands at a shopping mall where shops are closed during ter exhausted officials failed to close Massachusetts on December 23, 2020. The market is busiest during Christmas as many Italians order fish for their Christmas Eve Germany’s second lockdown amid the ongoing novel coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic, on December 22, 2020 in Berlin, two days pressing the sell button until the the gap on how to share access to UK dinners. The Feast of Seven Fishes, is a tradition brought from southern Italy to the United States by immigrants from Italy in the 1800s beforewaters.

Christmas. situation clarifies.” With AFP fishing AFPAFP and 1900s. AFP

Virus Taiwan Rivalssuccess ready tohelps pounce as Aussie winemakers eye China exit buck global economic slump Manila

Standard

Republic of the Philippines TODAY COMMISSION ON AUDIT

Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City, Philippines

PSEi December 23, 2020

TOP GAINERS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

IMP TECB2 IMI ROX CPM CAB CHI LSC APL DWC

LAST PRICE 1.86 0.75 8.78 1.74 2.65 57.95 6 1.01 0.102 2.35

CHANGE 0.23 0.07 0.59 0.11 0.15 3.25 0.3 0.05 0.005 0.11

% CHANGE 14.11% 10.29% 7.20% 6.75% 6.00% 5.94% 5.26% 5.21% 5.15% 4.91%

TOP LOSERS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

MA VVT LOTO CIP ABG AT CPG CYBR DAVIN GEO

LAST PRICE 0.01 14.12 2.17 137.5 10 6.31 0.46 0.365 5.8 0.28

CHANGE -0.001 -0.88 -0.12 -7.4 -0.5 -0.29 -0.02 -0.015 -0.23 -0.01

% CHANGE -9.09% -5.87% -5.24% -5.11% -4.76% -4.39% -4.17% -3.95% -3.81% -3.45%

MOST ACTIVE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

DITO BDO ALI BPI MBT SMPH SECB ACEN GTCAP SM

VOLUME 55631500 3221980 6492100 3230290 5113960 6381700 1659960 26062400 288530 151950

VALUE (PHP) 470569730 345691843 269973025 267137474 256543448 245053900 227293989 189735470 171493505 162442200

requirements for specific transactions only. On the other hand, COA Circular No. 96-004 provides the specific guidelines for drawing and liquidation of cash advance granted for foreign and local travel. Since there is no substantial inconsistency between the two circulars, COA Circular No. 2012-001 did not supersede COA Circular No. 96-004. However, the contrast between the documentary requirements of the circulars must be addressed to avoid further confusion among the concerned officials and/or employees and the auditors; and

Beijing starts anti-monopoly probe into technology juggernaut Alibaba

Demand for high quality It’s a serious blow to the winemakRESOLUTION No. 2020-015 WHEREAS, to facilitate the rendition of account of cash advances for travel expenses But the bigNo.winners: will likely be ers―China is their largest market, acgranted for official local and foreign travels, this Commission deems it fit to resolve the noted Date : January 31, 2020 counting for more than a third of their other established wine-producing coungaps between the provisions of COA Circular 96-004 and 2012-001 and at the same timeit BEIJING, China―China has launched InNos. a statement, the company said identify secondary documents to be submitted as proof of travel and appearance/participation, exports and until recently where they tries, Reeves added, because “the local an anti-monopoly investigation into “will actively cooperate with the reguin substantial compliance with COA Circular No. 2012-001. : Prescribing documents lieu of travel tickets regulators said Thursday, lators on the investigation.”

BEIJING, China―With Australia’s were the dominant players. SUBJECT wine industry insecondary China will not beinable Alibaba, and certificates of appearance, in substantial compliance NOW, THEREFORE, the CommissionFinancial Proper RESOLVES, as it does hereby RESOLVE, TAIPEI, Taiwan―As the world’s economies reel from the coronavirus winemakers rethinking their future in demand But as Australian wine has become to meet sendingonthe that share price of the e-comservices subsidiary Ant withthe Sections 3.1.2.2for and high-quality 3.2.2.2 of Commission Section 1.2.4 of Circular No. 2012-001 is modified, as follows: pandemic, Taiwan is on track to end the year clocking up enviable 19, 1996, the lucrative Chinese market, hit with less palatable in China, new openings wine.”Audit (COA) Circular No. 96-004 dated Aprilmerce giant tumbling and intensifying Group said it too would cooperate and and Section 1.2.4 of COA Circular No. 2012-001 dated June 1.2.4 Travelling Expenses growth―a testament to the island’s success halting the deadly painful tariffs as relations between the inhave Chilean wines “seem more likely to emerged fordisease. domestic producers the troubles of its billionaire founder “diligently study and strictly com14, 2012 1.2.4.1 Local Travel Throughout of rival the year, shoppers stores, countries. two countriesmuch worsen, producers fill the gap in the medium term,” said andhave otherthronged wine-exporting Jack Ma. ply with regulatory departments’ reWHEREAS, Section 16 ofKeeling, Executive Order (EO) No. 248Wine dated May 29, 1995, as Documentary Requirements around thehave world are busy, readytourist to pounce. restaurants stayed attractions have remainedtheopen and amended Tommy International In imposing anti-dumping tariffs, Regulators will also hold “superviquests.”

by EO No. 248-A dated August 14, 1995, states that “within sixty (60) days after Canberra and humming.

Beijing have been which amount to up to 212 his • AlibaPaper/electronic plane, or bus tickets, boarding terminalvia its and Spirits (IWSR) Research percent return toof the Philippines, in theRecord case of official travel abroad, or within thirty daysguidance” talks with factories have kept sory(30)and Ant boat Group made its pass, name fee. In the absence thereof, other documents such as, but not limited of his return to hisDirector permanent for official station in the case of official local travel,ba’s everygigantic official locked in a diplomatic Asia Pacific. goods’ value, China claimed cheap financial services subsidmain product Alipay, the online payIn a remarkable contrastand to economic comparable the industrialized economies, to, a passenger manifest certified by the concerned airline or shipping or employee shall render an account of the cash advance received by him in accordance standoff mosta of this year, with projections Chi- Australian China already drinks Chilean were company. ments platform and super-app that iary AntbeGroup, state media reported, with existingits applicable rules and regulations and/or more such rules and regulations as may which havefor taken battering, official forecastimports growth of 2.5 damaging Commission Audit [COA] for thecountry―and purpose. Payment of thejust salaryweeks of any after its record-breaking na hitting out at a list of issues includ- own viniculture industry. promulgated by thethan any onother export now deeplyIn embedded inBack China’s • Certificate of is appearance/attendance. the absence thereof, percent in 2020. official or employee who fails to comply with the provision of this Section shall be suspended to Office Report/Narrative Report on trip undertaken/Report on ing Australia’s call for an inquiry into good diplomatic relations could count Domestic production in the first half IPO was halted at the last minute by economy. until he complies therewith.”; “That probably will be the highest in the world,” Lin Chu-chia, an Participation addressed to the agency head will suffice. The report, the origins of COVID-19 andUniversity, a ban on told of AFP. the year was worth $680 million, in Santiago’s favor too, according to Beijing. company also expanded duly noted by the But agencythe head or his authorized has representative, shall economist at National Chengchi WHEREAS, pursuant to the rule-making power of COA under Section 2(2), Article IX-D contain, others, the followingloans, information:credit, investments Huawei’s participation the country.

Jorgeand Matthei, anofimport consultant. while hit its $830 million.

The continued squeeze on one ofamonginto offering of the 1987 Constitution, Section 16 EO No. 248, as amended by EO No. 248-A, this For the first time since in 1991, Taiwan is also set imports to outgrow giant o Highlights of the training/activity; Commission issued COA Circular No. 96-004 dated Aprilhas 19, 1996, prescribing the regulationsmost influential companies The row has seen at least 13 AustraThe Chinese market been a some Chinese China’s andpreferably insurance o Pictures dated; to hundreds of millions neighbor China, where the virus first emergedNow, but has nowobservers also beenthink and new rates of allowance for official local and foreign travels of government personnel. o Planofof action for knowledge sharing; lian sectors hit with import levies, in- vineyards are about to benefit lifeline for Chile’s producers hit after a is the latest sign that the Communist consumers and and small businesses, Particularly, Section 3.1.2 of the circular provides the specific guidelines and documentary largely vanquished. o Recommendations requirements for the liquidation cash advance for and foreign travels of is ready to deflate theIn the cluding beef, coal and barley―but one gloomy few years. hard by theof pandemic, heofficial said,local addleadership amspurring fear and jealously in a wider case of travels of agency heads within their area of jurisdiction, Monetary China will grow 1.9 government personnel; ofThe theInternational worst affected is wine,Fund with estimates the a certificate ofbanking appearance/attendance no longer be required.for suping that orders from there had in“Local producers have suffered from bitions of big tech firms in a runaway systemshallgeared more percent thishit year, with globalincontraction 4.4 percent. industry by compared two waves of atariffs creased more than third No. in 2012-001 the pastdated June WHEREAS, Commission issued COAaCircular 14, 2012, extremeofweather events over much of this internet sector, which has made porting state • CopyMa of previously approved itinerarypolicy of travel and large corporaAct fast the revised guidelines and documentary requirements for common government • with Revised or supplemental Office Order or any proof supporting the November and December. six months. the past three years, as wellprescribing as rising one of China’s richest people an tions. transactions, including the liquidation of cash advance for travelling expenses granted for change of schedule Taiwan’s ability weather coronavirus centered on two crucial The effect hasto been to the double, and has Andtravels.

ChileSection is not1.2.4 alone in sensing an 2012-001 imports, especially from official Australia,” estimated ItsItinerary reachof into spend of Chilocal and foreign of COA Circular No. provides: $58-billion fortune.

• Approved Revised Travel,the if thedaily previous approved elements. itinerary was not followed in some cases even triple, the price of said Matthew Reeves, a senior1.2.4 to reverse Australia’s leaderindustry Investigators are probing Alibaba for nese has also caused anxiety over the Travelling opportunity Expenses • Certification by the Head of Agency as to the absolute necessity of first emerged, economically painful group IBIS- ship of the market, previously helped by a aWhen bottlethe of virus Australian wine inauthorities Chinese made analyst at market research “suspected monopolistic practices,” potential for personal debt to turn sour the expenses together with the corresponding bills or receipts, if the 1.2.4.1 Local Travel expenses incurred official travel the prescribed rate and unpopular shutdown decisions early on. World. supermarkets.

2019 import tariff exemption. AFP the State Administration for Market and fortoxify the exceeded wider economy.

Documentary Requirements per day (certification or affidavit of loss shall not be considered as Borders were shut, strict quarantine measures enforced and carriers Regulation an appropriate replacement for the required hotel/lodging bills and • Paper/electronic plane, boat or bus tickets, boarding pass, terminal fee photo Manila traced. This As afile result, Taiwan had no local infections for 253 straight days said in a Standard• receipts) Liquidation Report taken on November • Certificate of appearance/attendance from early April. statement.

TODAY • Reimbursement Expense Receipt (RER) 5, 2020 shows • Copy of previously approved itinerary of travel T h e That clean streakred was broken on Tuesday when a woman tested positive • Official Receipt (OR) in case of refund of excess cash advance • Revised or supplemental Office Order or any proof supporting the people tasting p r o b e • Certificate of Travel Completed change of schedule after coming into contact with a foreign pilot, prompting a scramble to wine from Australia • Hotel room/lodging bills with official receipts in case of official travel • Revised Itinerary of Travel, if the previous approved itineraryt h wasr enota t e n s contain at the the new Foodoutbreak. and to places within 50-kilometer radius from the last city or municipality followed to impede covered by the Metro Manila Area, or the city or municipality where • Certification by the Head of Agency as to the absolute necessity of But it Agricultural was because the disease was essentially defeated by the their permanent official station is located in the case of those outside the expenses together with the corresponding bills or receipts, if the the growth Products exhibition beginning of April that Taiwan’s high-tech economy was in a unique Metro Manila Area, if the travel allowances being claimed include the expenses incurred for official travel exceeded the prescribed rate at thetothird of asAlibaba, hotel room/lodging rate per day (certification or affidavit of loss shall not be considered an position roar China back.

International appropriate replacement for the required hotel/lodging bills andareceipts) tech jug1.2.4.2 Foreign Travel For decades, Taiwan has been the world’s premier destination for • Liquidation Report Import Expo gernaut • Reimbursement Expense Receipt (RER) Documentary Requirements computerinchip and electronics manufacturing.

Shanghai. w h i c h • OR in case of refund of excess cash advance • Paper/electronic plane tickets, boarding pass, boat or bus tickets. In AndWith at a Australia’s time when vast swathes of the world were suddenly forced revolution• Certificate of Travel Completed the absence thereof, other documents such as, but not limited to, a winemakers to work or learn from home, Taiwan’s factories were able to meet the • Hotel room/lodging bills with official receipts in case of official travelthe ecertified true copy of the passport showing the dates of entry and exit, ized to places within 50-kilometer radius from the last city or municipality duly stamped by the Immigration Office of the country of destination soaringrethinking demand. their commerce covered by the Metro Manila Area, or the city or municipality where their as indicated in the approved travel authority and itinerary of travel; or future in the “The key drive for Taiwan’s economy is the robust export growth,” permanent official station is located in the case of those outside Metro a passenger manifest certified by the concerned airline or shipping landscape lucrative Chinese Manila Area, if the travel allowances being claimed include the hotel company.

Linmarket said. as they are of China. room/lodging rate • Certificate of appearance/attendance for training/seminar/ Exports soared to a historic high of $32 billion in October, up 11 Alibaba hit with painful 1.2.4.2 Foreign Travel participation. In the absence thereof, Back to Office Report/Narrative percent with double-digit growth in major markets including tariffs on-year, and relations s h a r e s Report on trip undertaken/Report on Participation addressed to the Documentary Requirements agency head will suffice. The report, duly noted by the agency head the States, official data showed.

China andbetween the United t u m b l e d or his authorized representative, shall contain, among others, the • Paper/electronic plane tickets, boarding pass, boat or bus tickets two countries November’s exports became the second highest ever, with the annual 8.6 percent following information: • Certificate of appearance/attendance for training/seminar/ participation plunge o Highlights of the training/activity; total on courseinto to the break records too. Earlier this month, Taiwan’s dollar to a fiveo Pictures preferably dated; deep freeze, rival • Bills/receipts for non-commutable representation expenses approved by month low wasproducers trading at around highs not seen since 1997. o Plan of action for knowledge sharing; and the President under Section 13 of EO No. 248 o Recommendations in Hong Tech titans the world are ready • For reimbursement of actual travel expenses in excess of the prescribed In the case of travels of agency heads, a certificate of appearance/ Kong on rate (EO No. 298) Topping the listAFP of a string of tech companies that registered record attendance shall no longer be required provided that the travel was to pounce. duly supported with travel order properly approved in accordance with the news. o Approval by the President profits in the third quarter is Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Section 5 of EO No. 248, as amended. o Certification from the Head of Agency that it is absolutely AFP (TSMC), the world’s largest contract microchip maker that supplies

By Sebastian Ricci with Paula Bustamante and Miguel Sanchez

By Amber Wang with Sean Chang

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice is hereby given to the public that Cadbury Marketing Services Pty Ltd under the business name Cadbury Confectionery– Philippine Branch has ceased all its business operations on 13 November 2019 per the Board Resolution of its Head Office and has officially begun its winding up procedures.

This notice is in compliance with the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

(MS-DEC 16, 17, 18,21, 23, 25,28, 29 & 31, 2020)

Apple and other international brands.

TSMC’s net profit in those three months rose by over a third onyear to $4.8 billion. Meanwhile its shares soared over 50 percent

o •

necessary Hotel room bills with official receipts (certification or affidavit of loss shall not be considered as an appropriate replacement for the required hotel/ lodging bills and receipts

Revised Itinerary of Travel, if applicable

•

Bills/receipts for non-commutable representation expenses approved by the President under Section 13 of EO No. 248

•

For reimbursement of actual travel expenses in excess of the prescribed rate (EO No. 298)

B4

Ray S. Eñano, Editor Roderick T. dela Cruz, Assistant Editor business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com

B4

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2020

IN BRIEF Petron offers free one-year fuel supply

PETRON Corp. is offering a free one-year supply of fuel as part of a 12-day promo for loyal customers.

Petron has been giving away big prizes and discounts daily through its 12 Days of Merry promo for all Petron Value Card holders.

“This is our way of giving back to all the motorists who continue to make Petron their fuel brand of choice. While this year’s Christmas will be quite different, we still want to give something special to our customers by rewarding them for their loyalty and putting more savings in their pockets,” said Petron president and chief executive Ramon Ang. Petron saved the best prize for last on Dec. 25 when 12 lucky customers can win a one-year supply of fuel equivalent to P88,000. For a minimum P500 single-receipt purchase of any Petron fuel on Dec. 25, a customer can qualify for one raffle entry to join the online raffle.

The customers will receive an SMS notification with the raffle reference number as proof of promo entry via their Petron Loyalty Card registered number.

Alena Mae S. Flores

SSS to implement higher contribution

THE Social Security System said Thursday its new contribution schedule and Workers’ Investment and Saving Program will be implemented in January 2021 pursuant to Republic Act No. 11199, or the Social Security Act of 2018.

SSS president and chief executive Aurora Ignacio said that the SSS contribution rate would be raised to 13 percent next year from 12 percent this year.

She said the minimum monthly salary credit would also be adjusted to P3,000 from P2,000, except for Kasambahay and OFW members whose minimum MSC will respectively remain at P1,000 and P8,000, while the maximum MSC will be at P25,000 from P20,000.

“As to the contribution share of the employer and employee, the additional one percent will be equally divided, thus the employer share will be at 8.5 percent from 8 percent, while the employee share will be at 4.5 percent from 4 percent. It applies to employed members, land-based OFW members in countries with Bilateral Labor Agreements with the Philippines, and seabased OFW members,” Ignacio said.

The SSS said that from 1980 to 2016, the contribution rate was increased only four times, while pensions were increased 22 times.

IFC, UN Women cite InLife programs

INSULAR Life was cited by International Finance Corp. and UN Women for its Sheroes program, digital sales system and health care subsidiary that support women during the COVID-19 pandemic.

InLife was listed in the IFC-UN Women publication “Bridging the Gap: Emerging Private Sector Response and Recovery Measures for Gender Equality amid COVID-19” as one of the companies and organizations around the world that are taking concrete actions to ensure the economic inclusion and social well-being of their women employees, customers, suppliers and local communities.

“InLife is grateful and honored to be included in the IFC and UN Women’s roster of companies and organizations that support women during this difficult times,” InLife executive chairman Nina Aguas said.

“During this pandemic and community quarantine, InLife provides insurance and health care products to Filipinos, particularly women, through our fully digital operations. InLife also continues to empower women through our Sheroes program’s financial literacy initiatives,” she said.

Business

Fitch Solutions revises 2021 forex forecast to P47.50/US$

By Julito G. Rada

F

ITCH Solutions, a unit of Fitch Group, on Thursday revised its 2021 foreign exchange forecast to P47.50 against the US dollar from an earlier estimate of 50.10 per greenback.

It said the peso was also expected to average 49.59 against the dollar this year, stronger than its previous forecast of 49.75 a dollar as the country’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals continue to support the local currency amid the global health crisis. The peso closed at 48.07 against the dollar on Dec. 23, up by more than 5 percent since the start of the year.

“We believe the tailwinds that have driven the unit through 2020 will continue into 2021 and rising foreign interest would bolster further the unit,” Fitch Solutions said.

It said the peso was an outperforming currency in 2020, strengthening 5.3 percent this year, compared to the 3.6-percent for the Asian dollar index.

Fitch Solutions said among the key drivers of the peso’s strength were weak domestic import demand, the Philippines’ strong external fundamentals, surprises to the upside from OFW remittances and the Bangko ng Sentral Pilipinas’ policies to curb market volatility.

“We believe these factors will broadly continue over the near term and will

be aided by further dollar depreciation.

In addition, higher risk appetite amongst investors focusing on low external financing and fiscal risks would bolster further the unit,” it said.

It said, however, it was expecting “a gradual depreciation over the longer term.”

“We have revised our exchange rate forecast from an average P50.10/US$ to an average P47.50/US$ through 2021, reflecting an expectation for the unit to trade in a range of the P46 to P50/US$ trading range towards the latter half of the year,” it said.

From a technical perspective, Fitch Solutions said the peso appeared “to be approaching the end of its appreciation.”

BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno earlier said in a briefing the peso remained resilient and stable amid the COVID-19 pandemic and its prolonged impact to global economies.

LRT APP. Light Rail Manila Corp., the private operator of Light Rail Transit Line 1, announces its partnership with the Light Rail Transit Authority to share the ikotMNL app technology for the benefit of LRT-2 passengers. LRTA is the public transport operator of LRT-2. Signing the agreement are (from left) LRTA deputy administrator Jose Jobel Belarmino, LRTA administrator Reynaldo Berroya, LRMC president and chief executive Juan Alfonso and LRMC general counsel Jhimmy Santiago.

First Metro Investment seeks return of quasi banking permit

By Jenniffer B. Austria FIRST Metro Investment Corp., the investment banking arm of the Metrobank Group, said Thursday it filed an application for the return of its quasi banking license with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

It said the move was part of the group’s plan to embark on a new business strategy as it adapts to the changing market and business environment.

“In view of the changes in the market and overall business environment, the evolving regulatory conditions and realignment with the Metrobank Group strategy, First Metro is embarking on a transformation initiative that involves the company’s products and services,”

said First Metro president Jose Patricio Dumlao.

“We plan to strengthen our core business of investment banking and further develop our brokering and distribution of capital markets issuances, both government and corporate,” Dumlao said.

“This new strategy will enable us to serve our clients better and contribute more effectively in the further development of the capital markets in the country,” he said.

FMIC is among the leading investment banks in the country. Despite the pandemic, it remained among the most active in 2020 as it completed 22 deals both in the equity and debt capital markets.

Among the corporate deals it handled

were the bond offerings of Ayala Land, Inc., SM Investments Corp., Del Monte Philippines Inc. and Aboitiz Equity Ventures.

FMIC was also one of the joint issue managers of the Bureau of the Treasury’s P516.3-billion retail treasury bonds, the biggest RTB issuance of the national government so far.

The company has long been an advocate of capital markets development in the country. The company developed innovative products such as the first exchange-traded fund (the First Metro Philippine Equity ExchangeTraded Fund) in the country and the first AMBIF (ASEAN +3 Multi-currency Bond Issuance Framework) in the Philippines.

PLDT, AF Payments agree to improve transportation fare collection system

By Darwin G. Amojelar PLDT Enterprise said Thursday it signed a strategic partnership with AF Payments Inc. to enable a modernized fare and tracking system for the transportation sector.

AFPI will bundle its automatic fare collection system with PLDT Enterprise’s Smart Tracker solution—powered by Vectras—to provide a complete fleet management and fare collection solution to public transport operators.

Public transport operators will have the option to get fleet management and fare collection functionality from AFPI without the need to contract with multiple suppliers.

The strategic partnership’s goal is to make it easier for public transport operators to meet the demand for effective fleet management and modern fare collection.

PLDT said that as it becomes easier for public transport operators to implement fleet management and fare collection systems, the riding public would benefit from more convenient fare payment options, better vehicle scheduling and passenger information systems.

“The Smart Tracker solution aims to simplify the management of fleets of public transport vehicles. With the service, public transport operators can choose

to provide locator links which commuters can access in order to better manage their commute and travel time,” said Jojo Gendrano, first vice president and head of PLDT Enterprise Core Business.

AFPI, with the guidance of the Department of Transportation, has been working with the public transport operators of train, jeepney and bus fleets, including the three light rail systems of Manila and the EDSA bus consortiums, to help make public transport more convenient by introducing modern fare collection based on contact-less cards and QR codes.

“Through this strong partnership with PLDT Enterprise, we continue to build on the efforts of modernizing the public transport sector and making modern fare payment accessible to all,” said Sharon Fong, chief commercial officer of AFPI. Jovy Hernandez, ePLDT president and chief executive and senior vice president and head for PLDT and Smart Enterprise, said expressed confidence that the “strategic partnership will enable a more modernized transportation management and cashless payment system to benefit Filipino commuters.”

“Bus companies can manage their operations better and the public will be assured of a simpler and safer way to commute with contactless payments,” he said.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

PSE INDEX CLOSING

Wednesday, December 23, 2020 1.99 PTS. 7,204.38

TOTAL VOLUME TOTAL TRADES TOTAL VALUE ADVANCES DECLINES UNCHANGED

29,387,682,696 117,001 6,941,478,221.39 138 90 43

F oreign e xchange r ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

48.0910

Japan

Yen

0.009650

0.4641

UK

Pound

1.336400

64.2688

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.128989

6.2032

Switzerland

Franc

1.124101

54.0591

Canada

Dollar

0.774773

37.2596

Singapore

Dollar

0.748559

35.9990

Australia

Dollar

0.752100

36.1692

Bahrain

Dinar

2.655267

127.6944

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266546

12.8185

Brunei

Dollar

0.745768

35.8647

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000071

0.0034

Thailand

Baht

0.033102

1.5919

UAE

Dirham

0.272272

13.0938

Euro

Euro

1.216500

58.5027

Korea

Won

0.000901

0.0433

China

Yuan

0.152837

7.3501

India

Rupee

0.013541

0.6512

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.246366

11.8480

New Zealand

Dollar

0.704100

33.8609

Taiwan

Dollar

0.035540

1.7092 Source: BSP

BOI requests clears NGCP Congress to let Coca-Cola’s tax-free P2.3-bimports PET ofrecycling virus vaccines bid

pines on Wednesday asked lawmakTHE Boardprivate of Investments ers to allow companies tosaid imThursday it approved the P2.3-billion port, tax-free, doses of the COVID-19 greenfield polyethylene terephthalvaccine for useproject of theirof employees. ate recycling Coca-Cola NGCP president and Inc. chiefthat execuBeverages Phillippines will tive Anthony Almeda said this transform used PET bottles intowould foodenablePET businesses to give the econograde resin containers. myBased a much-needed boost in activity. on its presentation to the Almeda appealed lawmakers to BOI, CCBPI said ittosigned a joint pass a lawwith encouraging private ventured IndoramatheVentures Packaging Corp. for a PET recycling sector to provide vaccination to emand manufacturing project. ployees.

The jointaventure company, PET Value “With vaccination program in Philippines Corp., gained a pioneer place for the private sector, status more that allows the to enjoy businesses andproject industries willsix beyears able of holiday or exemption from to income regain tax some semblance of normal wharfage and back, export tax, activity, dues bounce and duty, put imthe port and fees, and modified duty rate for economy on its way to recovery after capital equipment. almost a year ofarea slow of down,” Almeda A preferred investments said in statement.pioneer if the acmay bea declared NGCP, with the a 5,000-strong worktivity involves manufacturing or force, continues to monitor the progprocessing or uses a design, formula, ress andmethod, rollout process of COVID-19 vacscheme, or system of cines in other production or countries. transformation of any “Vaccination, well asormass testelement or raw as material finished good which is new and untried. ing, is focally critical in the fight A project may alsoWe beneed considered against COVID-19. to prepioneer if it engages vent, detect, isolate, in andagricultural treat. We activities/services essential to now, the need to jumpstart the economy achievement of ensure the country’s selfbut we need to that we stack sufficiency programinfections or producesinnonthe odds against the conventional fuels or manufactures workplace,” Almeda said. equipment which utilize non-convenNGCP is assessing the possibility tional sources of energy or conforms of providing its criteria employees, includto other specific as provided inginessential personnel of for the annually drawncomprised Investments grid dispatchers and transmission line Priorities Plan. personnel with the necessary Trade Undersecretary andvaccine BOI doses as soon as it Ceferino becomes available. managing head Rodolfo “We our infused counterparts in said theencourage joint venture propriboth the sectors,reto etary andpublic state ofand theprivate art eight-step cycling process that would transform be similarly pro-active in protecting used bottle back intowe food-grade their pet employees, so that can keep recycle per resin. the economy running at full speed,” PET Value Almeda said. will soon initiate the construction of a new plant at the NGCP renewed its commitment Gateway General to enforceBusiness all healthPark and in safety proTrias, Cavite.

It took over the previtocols mandated by the Department ous production site of Wilkins Disof Health and the Department of Latilled Waters in the economic zone. bor andValue Employment to mitigate the PET is 30-percent Spanish spread of the virus in thecompany. workplace. and 70-percent Dutch It It also continues to endorsement help local governreceived favorable from ments, national of health agencies and the Department Science and Techvariouswhich communities fight thefordisnology was instrumental its ease. Alenastatus.

Mae S. Flores pioneering

DOE, DPWH eye joint circular to relocate over 50,000 electric poles THE Department of Energy and the Department of Public Works and Highways plan to issue a third joint circular to relocate over 50,000 electric poles obstructing national roads and highways.

The draft circular will provide a the mechanism for the immediate relocation of electric poles within the national government’s right of way and give a time-

tak Po 86

M Pow ing men resp P22 “W ning MG erat cus an a cap M Pow coa

TRANSMISSION network operator

Executives of Hedcor Inc. and Aboitiz Foundation Inc. sign a memorandum of agreement with representatives of barangays and cooperatives involved in the implementation of the P450,000 livelihood recovery program, through the provision of egg machines to four different associations in Bukidnon and Davao del Sur. The initiative is part of a bigger program by AFI known as Restart: Aboitiz Foundation Recovery Program for Partner Cooperatives, which provides in-kind donations for livelihood recovery and training to select cooperatives nationwide.

line.

Joint Circular No. 1, series of 2017, prescribed the uniform guidelines and procedures for the proper payment of compensation and recovery of cost to relocate electric cooperative and sub-transmission lines.

Section 13 of JC1 provides that “within one year from the effectivity of this joint circular, the National Electrification Administration and Electric Cooperative shall cause the removal and relocation

By

By OthelGrid V. Campos National Corp. of the Philip-

LIVELIHOOD PROGRAM.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

M o M

of any improperly located facility in the government’s right-of-way, subject to payment of compensation provided in the circular”.

The DOE and the DPWH adopted Joint Circular No. 2 to extend the period of relocation of obstructing facilities provided in Section 13 of JC1, for up to Dec. 31, 2019.

The deadline provided in JC2 lapsed while a significant number of poles remained in the government’s right-of-way that raised public safety concerns.

Ag sh By

THE Wed on prod of a path Suc Dec It port erin of A to t Hea T Inst firm affe outb A orde dus perm prod

Sports

Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) shoots the ball against Milwaukee Bucks defender Brook Lopez (11) at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. AFP

UAAP studies eligibility of athletes

By Peter Atencio BIG adjustments in eligibility policies will be made after organizers cancelled the games of the 83rd University Athletic Association of the Philippines.

With season 84 expected to start in the third quarter of the year 2021, the league will reconsider the status of its student-athletes, and the playing years that they still have left.

“We will discuss this soon,” said executive director, Atty. Rene Saguisag Jr., who added that season 83 is set to end on May 31 of the coming year.

In the next season, there will be many student athletes who will miss two years of competition.

League officials were not able to continue with the staging of season 83 because of the ongoing restrictions imposed by the government to mitigate the effects of coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

With season 83 over, student athletes playing in the first semester will miss one full year of eligibility.

For those seeing action in the second semester, the board will need to evaluate their status since they will miss two playing years.

The situation will be tricky for one-and-done rookies, those who were recruited and will just play for one year.

More evaluation will be needed on this since most of these athletes are enrolled in their member school’s master’s degree programs.

According to current league rules, “a student-athlete from a non-member school who is pursuing graduate studies in a member school shall not be subject to residency requirements.”

In men’s basketball, there will be at least five players who are affected.

Among them is Far Eastern University’s Emman Ojuola, a transferee from Naga College Foundation and University of the Philippines’ Sam Dowd, who came from of Idaho State.

Rockets game postponed as COVID-19 bites NBA L

OS ANGELES, United States—COVID-19 precautions forced the first postponement of the NBA season on just the second day of action Wednesday (Thursday Philippine time) as the Houston Rockets’ home game against Oklahoma City was called off.

Rockets superstar James Harden was fined $50,000 for violating protocols aimed at preventing the spread of coronavirus—a violation that left him ineligible for the team’s scheduled season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder, which was postponed because the Rockets didn’t have the required eight players available.

The NBA said in a statement that three Rockets players had returned positive or inconclusive coronavirus tests.

Four other Rockets players had also been quarantined due to contact tracing measures.

One other Rockets player was unavailable because of an injury.

“The National Basketball Association

game scheduled for tonight between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center has been postponed in accordance with the league’s Health and Safety Protocols,” the NBA said in a statement.

The postponement was the last thing the league was hoping for on the second day of the season, when a full slate of 13 games were scheduled.

ESPN reported Wednesday that the league was investigating Harden for a possible violation of protocols after video surfaced on social media that apparently showed him at a club without wearing a mask.

Harden—who was a late arrival at training camp and has been at the center of reports that he has demanded a trade—

issued a statement on Instagram, denying the video showed him at a strip club but acknowledging he was at an event hosted by a friend.

“One thing after another,” Harden wrote. “I went to show love to my homegirl at her event (not a strip club) because she is becoming a boss and putting her people in position of success and now it’s a problem.

“Everyday it’s something different. No matter how many times people try to drag my name under you can’t.”

But the league’s coronavirus protocols prohibit players from attending indoor gatherings of more than 15 people.

“Houston Rockets guard James Harden has been fined $50,000 for violating the league’s Health and Safety Protocols, which among other things prohibit attending indoor social gatherings of 15 or more people or entering bars, lounges, clubs or similar establishments,” NBA President of League Operations Byron Spruell said in a statement about two hours after the game was postponed. AFP

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Reuel Vidal, Assistant Editor FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2020

C1

Tatum hits game-winner as Celtics edge Bucks LOS ANGELES, United States—Boston Forward Jayson Tatum banked in a game-winning three-pointer over Giannis Antetokounmpo with 1.5 seconds left to give the Celtics an 122-121 NBA season-opening victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday (Thursday Philippine time).

Antetokounmpo, the two-time defending NBA Most Valuable Player, had a chance to tie it from the free-throw line with four-tenths of a second left, but the Greek superstar missed his second free throw after being fouled at the rim and the Celtics came away with the win on their home floor.

“Ever since I was a kid I wanted to be in that position,” Tatum said of stepping up despite a relatively poor shooting night.

He finished with 30 points but connected on just 12 of 28 shots from the floor.

“I don’t know what my field goal percentage was, but I know I played terrible,” said Tatum, who also pulled down seven rebounds and handed out two assists. “But it’s a team game. Everybody contributed. It’s the first one of the season, so it felt good to get a win.”

Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 33 points, five rebounds and four assists Antetokounmpo, who last week signed a five-year contract extension reportedly worth a record $228 million, led Milwaukee with 35 points, 13 rebounds, two assists and two blocked shots.

Khris Middleton added 27 points and 14 rebounds for the Bucks, who finished the 2019-20 regular season with the best record in the NBA but fell to the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference semi-finals.

Covid concerns The nail-biter in Boston was one of a dozen games on the second night of the 2020-21 season.

It was supposed to be 13, but Houston’s home opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder was postponed as COVID-19 concerns—including James Harden’s violation of anti-virus protocols that cost the superstar a $50,000 fine—left the Rockets with less than the required eight players available to stage the game.

Harden was ineligible after the league found he attended a party on Monday in violation of protocols prohibiting players from attending indoor gatherings of more than 15 people. AFP

Federer, Serena among entries for Australian Open

Switzerland’s Roger Federer hits a return against Serbia’s Novak Djokovic in this file photo of their men’s singles semifinal match on day eleven of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne on January 30, 2020. AFP

MELBOURNE, Australia—Roger Federer and Serena Williams were among the entries announced Thursday for the coronavirus-disrupted Australian Open, with tournament director Craig Tiley vowing a “happy Slam” after months of painstaking planning.

All the world’s top players have signed on, led by world number ones Novak Djokovic and Ashleigh Barty.

There was a question mark over Swiss great Federer, who warned this month he was in a “race against time” to be fit after two rounds of knee surgery.

But he has begun training in Dubai and was among those entered to play at Melbourne Park as he targets a seventh title.

US superstar Williams, who like Federer turns 40 next year, is also committed as she once again attempts to pull level with Margaret Court as a 24-time Grand Slam champion.

Her last triumph at the majors came in Australia in 2017 when she was pregnant.

“There are so many great storylines for AO 2021,” said Tiley.

“Serena is gunning for her eighth title while Novak, who often seems invincible at Melbourne Park, is going for a record ninth title.

“Our own world No.1 Ash Barty will return to Grand Slam competition, as will Roger Federer as he comes back from injury.”

The opening Grand Slam of the year, which will be played in front of at least 50 percent of normal crowds, has been pushed back three weeks until February 8.

All players must undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine on arrival, during which they will constantly be tested for Covid-19 but allowed to train for five hours a day in a bio-secure bubble.

“Although the AO will look a bit different to previous years, the safety of everyone is our top priority,” said Tiley.

“We have the opportunity to stage a very safe, and happy Slam, and give the players the experience of competing in front of crowds again, something they’ve missed for most of this year.”

The men’s and women’s qualifiers will be held in Doha and Dubai respectively from January 10-13, with players arriving in Melbourne from January 15 on special charter flights.

A slimmed-down, 12-team ATP Cup, the relocated Adelaide International, and a ATP 250 tournament will all be played in Melbourne once players are out of isolation.

Two WTA 500 tournaments are also planned to be held concurrently at Melbourne Park on January 31-February 7. AFP

Former MMA world champion Pettis joins PFL TWO-time MMA world champion Anthony Pettis has jumped ship and becomes the next superstar fighter to sign a multi-year deal with Professional Fighters League (PFL).

The 33-year-old American—nicknamed “Showtime”—has made a career of being a human highlight reel and has notched 23 career wins, with 11 coming by way of knockout. Pettis will be fighting in the 155-pound lightweight division upon his PFL debut in 2021.

“I am really looking forward to this next big challenge after signing with the PFL to compete in the lightweight division. I’m super impressed with what the PFL has built, how they are growing the sport, and the amazing talent they have added. I’ve been watching the Brazilian guy (Natan) Schulte who is the champion and he is really good but there isn’t anyone I’m scared of,” said Pettis.

“The season format is great; I think it will be an amazing new journey for me and to get to wrap it

up over the course of one year will be awesome.

I can’t wait to get another world championship to add to my collection.”

In addition to his status as one of the pound-forpound greats, the Wisconsin native is known as one of the most acrobatic fighters in the world. Equipped with lightning quick speed and unrelenting power, Pettis was responsible for one of the most iconic moments in MMA history when he ran off the cage and threw a flying kick—now known as the Showtime Kick—that connected with his opponent’s head en route to claiming his first world title.

Pettis is one of the most mainstream fighters in mixed martial arts history, evidenced by in 2014 when he became the first MMA fighter to ever be featured on a Wheaties cereal box.

“I am excited to announce that the PFL has signed two-time world champion, Anthony Pettis,” said Peter Murray, CEO of the Professional Fighters League.

“Not only is Anthony a transcendent athlete within

the sport of MMA, but he is also an innovator in the cage who is known for his charismatic fighting style and determination to win. I am confident that Anthony will bring that ‘wow’ factor into every matchup he participates in over the course of our season format, and we’re excited for him to join the PFL family.”

The PFL’s 2021 season will begin on April 23 on ESPN2. The remaining Regular Season events will take place on April 29, May 6, June 10, June 17, and June 25.

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) presents MMA for the first time in the sport-season format where individual fighters control their own destiny, competing in a Regular Season, Playoffs, and Championship for a million-dollar prize.

PFL’s differentiated format and exciting fights sparked breakout growth for the league. PFL events are broadcast live in primetime on ESPN2 and ESPN+ in the United States and distributed to 160 additional countries around the world on premium sports networks.

Anthony Pettis psyches himself up in this file photo before the start of his fight against Diego Ferreira at UFC 246 January 18, 2020. AFP

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Sports

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2020

Report: Diego suffered from heart, kidney, liver disorders

Messi’s record untouchable, says Barcelona forward Lineker MADRID—Lionel Messi’s all-time goalscoring record for one club will never be broken, former England and Barcelona forward Gary Lineker has predicted.

Messi beat Pele’s record of 643 goals for one club when he scored Barcelona’s third goal, and the 644th of his Barca career, in the 3-0 win against Valladolid on Tuesday.

Records are there to be broken, as Messi has proved, but Lineker says this one is untouchable.

“To beat Messi’s 644 goal record, someone will have to score an average of 43 goals a season for 15 years....for one club,” Lineker, now a BBC presenter, tweeted alongside an incredulous icon.

“This is a record that no one thought would ever be beaten. It will never be beaten again.”

The 33-year-old Argentina star rewrote the history books on Tuesday when he collected Pedri’s neat backheel and struck the ball past goalkeeper Jordi Masip in the 65th minute.

Messi scored his first goal for Barca in 2005. His has beaten the total Pele amassed for Brazilian club Santos from 1956 to 1974.

“When I started playing football I never thought I would break any records. And even less the one I achieved today,” Messi posted on Instagram.

“I can only thank all those who helped me over the years, my teammates, my family, my friends and all those who support me every day.”

Messi’s latest career landmark comes in the wake of his failed preseason bid to quit Barca after they were thrashed 8-2 by eventual winners Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-fnals.

That showdown between the club and the six-time Ballon d’Or winner has been put to one side as he continues to excel on the pitch, although he said in an interview this week that he had had a “very bad time” this summer.

“I see Messi happy. He is working hard, and he is a very important part of our attacking game,” said Barca coach Ronald Koeman after Tuesday’s win.

Messi now has his sights on Pele’s record for most international goals by a South American. He has 71 compared to Pele’s 77 for Brazil.

Unlike Pele though, he is yet to win a World Cup. Messi’s Argentina side lost to Germany in the 2014 World Cup final. AFP

Barcelona’s Argentine forward Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring a goal during the Spanish league football match between Real Valladolid FC and FC Barcelona at the Jose Zorilla stadium in Valladolid on December 22, 2020. Cesar Manso/AFP

Elite cast joins Philracom’s th 48 Presidential Gold Cup A SHOWDOWN for the ages looms when 13 of the country’s finest horses, led by 2020 Triple Crown champion Heneral Kalentong, clash in the 48th staging of the Philippine Racing Commission’s Presidential Gold Cup on Sunday at the San Lazaro Leisure Park (SLLP) in Carmona, Cavite.

To be ridden again by star jockey JB Hernandez, the Benjamin Abalos Sr.-owned Heneral Kalentong leads a stellar cast that also includes Real Gold (jockey JPA Guce, owner C&H Enterprise), Boss Emong (jockey MM Gonzales, owner Edward Vincent Diokno), Shanghai Grey (jockey KB Abobo, owner Melanie Habla), Princess Eowyn (jockey FM Racquel, owner Laiza Eje) and Victorious Colt (jockey OP Cortez, owner Maria Felizita Mangaliman).

Defending champion Super Sonic ( jockey JA Guce, owner Leonardo M. Javier Jr.) will try to match the record of Benhur Abalos’ Hagdang Bato, the latest in history to win two Presidential Gold Cup titles,

achieved in 2012 and 2014.

Also joining the fray in the 2,000-meter race are Electric Truth (AP Asuncion, Andok’s Litson Corp.), Super Swerte (JB Guce, RMR Equine Inc.), Pangalusian Island (MA Alvarez, Wilbert Tan), Toy For The BigBoy (PM Caballejo and Alberto Santos) and Wonderland (PR Dilema) and Patong Patong (JD Flores), which are both owned by Ken Logistics Forwarding.

The locally bred runners will compete for the total purse of P3 million from the Philracom, with a whopping P1.8 million going to the winner.

Second to sixth placers get P675,000, P375,000, P150,000, P90,000, P60,000, respectively, including a P100,000 cash

incentive to the winning breeder.

Newly appointed Philracom Chairman Reli de Leon and his commissioners will be on hand to oversee the prestigious running of the Presidential Gold Cup, the country’s longest-running continuously-held sporting event that was conceived on October 7, 1973, through the efforts of the late PCSO Chairman and General Manager Nereo C. Andolong.

The first edition was held at the famed San Lazaro Hippodrome in Santa Cruz, Manila, with Sun God, owned by Don Pedro Cojuangco and ridden by Jockey Elias Ordiales, mastering the field.

The legendary Fair and Square was the first horse to score a back-to-back win, claiming his second title on December 12, 1982 at San Lazaro Hippodrome. The colt was owned by Cesar and Herminia Mamon and was ridden

by Jockey Jesus Guce. This prestigious double-win was then followed by horses Sun Dancer, Bulldozer and Wind Blown, with Hagdang Bato the latest to pull off the feat.

BUENOS AIRES—Argentina football legend Diego Maradona was suffering from liver, kidney and cardiovascular disorders but there were no signs of alcohol or narcotics consumption in his autopsy, the public prosecutor said on Wednesday.

World Cup winning captain from Mexico ‘86, Maradona died of a heartattack on November 25 at the age of 60.

The public prosecutor in San Isidro, a northern suburb of the capital Buenos Aires, published the results of Maradona’s autopsy late on Tuesday night.

It was ordered as part of an investigation into his death to see if there was any negligence or recklessness in the health care he was provided.

At the end of his life he was suffering from a variety of illnesses including cirrhosis, heart disease and kidney failure.

The toxicology analysis showed there was no alcohol or narcotics in his blood or urine but Maradona was taking anti-depressants, an anti-psychotic drug and various other medication to treat ulcers, convulsions, dependencies and difficulties in expelling waste.

Maradona had battled cocaine and alcohol addictions during his life.

“What’s come out of the laboratory analysis is as important as what hasn’t, which simply confirms that Maradona was given psychotropic drugs but no medicine for heart disease,” one of the investigators told the Telam press agency.

Psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov and heart surgeon Leopoldo Luque are under investigation as they were treating Maradona before his death.

A first autopsy conducted the day Maradona died found he had suffered from liquid on the lungs with acute heart failure brought on by a disease of the heart muscles that makes it harder to pump blood.

Maradona’s heart was twice the normal weight.

He had undergone an operation for a bleed on the brain on November 3, just five days after his 60th birthday where he briefly attended a party in his honor at the club he was coaching, Gimnasia y Esgrima, although he appeared to be in poor health.

Maradona was widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. AFP

Israel basketball opens new chapter with Avdija’s NBA debut

Deni Avdija of the Washington Wizards grabs the rebound during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. AFP

JERUSALEM—Israel’s first major achievement in international basketball was Maccabi Tel Aviv’s 1977 European championship, an event so important that then prime minister Yitzhak Rabin delayed his resignation announcement until the final match had ended.

Basketball’s popularity in the Jewish state has grown massively over the ensuing decades, but Israel has not yet produced a homegrown star who excelled in the world’s top league, the NBA. That could be set to change, beginning Thursday, when 19-year-old Deni Avdija is scheduled to begin his NBA career with the Washington Wizards.

The 6ft 9in small forward was chosen ninth overall in the November draft, the highest-ever slot for an Israeli-born player.

Avdija, born on the Beit Zera kibbutz in northern Israel, will not be the first Israeli-born player in the NBA. That was Omri Casspi, who debuted for the Sacramento Kings in 2009 and had a middling career, averaging 7.9 points per game over 10 seasons.

But many basketball experts believe Avdija offers Israel’s first legitimate shot at NBA stardom.

Former NBA coach and executive Brad Greenberg, who now coaches Israel’s Nes Ziona club, described Avdija as “one of the best players in his age group outside the US, which these days means you are on par with the very best players even in the US.” Greenberg, who as the Philadelphia 76ers general manager drafted legendary point guard Allen Iverson in 1996, told AFP that Avdija “has the potential to play at a very high level.”

‘Special’ “Deni is special,” said Oded Kattash, one of Israel’s most accomplished players who now coaches Hapoel Jerusalem of Israel’s Premier League.

“It wouldn’t have mattered if he grew up in Serbia, Croatia, Germany, the US or Israel: he would make it,” added Kattash, who was on track to be Israel’s first NBA player until a 1998-99 lockdown derailed his opportunity with the New York Knicks.

But Kattash stressed that Avdija’s rise is at least partly attributable to improvements in Israel’s talent development system.

“Five six years ago, people would say that young Israeli players are spoiled and lazy,” Kattash told AFP.

“Things are much better now... A lot of clubs put more money and attention into the youth department.”

- ‘It changed everything’ For Israeli filmmaker Dani Menkin, who made a documentary about Maccabi Tel Aviv’s 1977 championship, there is a clear connection between that unlikely title and Avdija.

“That victory in 1977, it absolutely changed everything,” said Menkin, whose 2016 film “On the Map” argued that Maccabi Tel Aviv’s championship invigorated a young nation still recovering from the 1973 Yom Kippur War. While Maccabi beat Italian club Mobilgirgi Varese in the final, the semi-final win over Soviet powerhouse CSKA Moscow was even more profound, as Israel shocked a geopolitical rival which had supported its Arab rivals in the war.

Soviet dissident Natan Sharansky, who moved to Israel in 1986, recalled in the film that he considered taunting his KGB captors after Maccabi’s victory.

Menkin told AFP that Maccabi’s development into a major international club after 1977 bonded a new generation of Israelis to basketball. AFP

76ers’ exec Morey feared HK tweet would end NBA career LOS ANGELES—Daryl Morey, embarking on his first season as Philadelphia 76ers President of Basketball Operations, told ESPN in an article published Wednesday he once feared his tweet last year supporting Hong Kong activists could end his NBA career.

Morey was general manager of the Houston Rockets when he tweeted: “Fight for Freedom, stand with Hong Kong,” referring to protests Beijing calls separatist and seditious.

The tweet triggered a fierce backlash in China —the NBA’s most lucrative market outside the United States—and the rift cost the league hundreds of millions of dollars.

When Morey stepped down in October of this year after guiding Rockets basketball operations

since 2007, China’s state broadcaster—which blacked out NBA games for a year—hinted he had “paid a price” for the tweet.

Two weeks later, however, Morey landed with the 76ers, although he acknowledged in his ESPN interview that the firestorm had caused him to wonder if he would end up out of the league.

“In the last 12 months, I had moments where I thought I might never work in the NBA again, for reasons I was willing to go down for,” Morey said. “But I love working, I love what I do, and I didn’t want that to happen.”

Morey said he remained “very comfortable with what I did” even though he didn’t anticipate the outrage he would face.

“You don’t want the second-most powerful government on Earth mad at you, if you can avoid it,” he said.

Meanwhile, Golden State forward Draymond Green will miss the Warriors’ Christmas Day game against Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks, Warriors coach Steve Kerr said Wednesday.

A right foot injury had already sidelined Green for the Warriors’ season opener, a blowout loss to the New Jersey Nets on Tuesday.

Green had missed all of training camp and the team’s pre-season games after testing positive for coronavirus. He practiced with the team on Wednesday but hasn’t yet been cleared to play.

Rookie center James Wiseman, the second

overall selection in the NBA draft, scored 19 points and pulled down six rebounds in an encouraging NBA debut for the Warriors on Tuesday.

But the Warriors clearly could have done with the veteran leadership of Green in the 125-99 loss to the Nets.

Wiseman got the start in his first NBA game, but Kerr said he would continue to experiment with starting lineups.

“Everything is fluid right now, everything is a possibility,” Kerr said. “We don’t have a rotation, we don’t have a semblance of an identity.

“That’s what we’re trying to build. So, I think it’s important to reward guys now if they play well.” AFP

Entertainment

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2020

The movie foretold by the stars VERY WANG

T

NICKIE WANG

HE Boy Foretold by the Stars is a story inspired by the personal experiences of its writer and director Dolly Dulu. The film is a refreshingly different Metro Manila Film Festival entry specifically in content amid being a gay film, or in today’s parlance, Boys Love movie.

To start off, sorry for the spoiler (though its the only thing I am dishing out from the movie), there will be kissing scenes, but don’t expect more than that. The strength of the film lies not on salacious and daring moments but on its sharp script and the natural acting skills presented onscreen by leads Keann Johnson and Adrian Lindayag.

Adrian is Dominic and Keann is Luke, both students in an exclusive school. The two boys belong to different worlds as they move into separate campus cliques. That situation is about to change, thanks to a fortuneteller who correctly predicts that the two high school seniors would be joining a school retreat. What follows is a bittersweet journey of growing up

‘The Boy Foretold by the Stars,” dubbed as the first Filipino BL movie, headlined by Adrian Lindayag (left) and Keann Johnson.

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and finding one’s identity.

Adrian is a reliable actor, Keann, on the other hand, makes love with the camera without even knowing it. When together, they deliver their lines naturally as if they are not acting at all.

Dominic is portrayed delicately as an effeminate young gay man and Dulu was very precise about it. Luke, meanwhile, is everything but a lovable young man who makes rapid connection with Dominic in a way he couldn't explain.

The story of Dominic and Luke is very simple—naturally complicated just like any other romantic tale. And that’s the beauty of The Boy Foretold by the Stars. It’s not pretentious or an obvious expression of a writer who couldn’t fulfill a Boys Love fantasy in real life.

For a relatively young director, the BL movie is a masterpiece, a passion project that is well crafted. Every scene is pleasing to the eyes and every dialogue is believable.

The only thing that you could probably hate about it is the fact that you’re liking it despite not having a boy and a girl locking lips before your eyes.

Watching the film on the big screen (at the Sine Pop microcinema in Cubao, Quezon City) gave me a different feeling, almost nostalgic because nine months of not being able to watch a movie in a cineplex felt like it was already many years ago. There were only 10 scribes allowed to see the film and based on what I had witnessed, everyone in the room approved of the film when they erupted into loud applause after the last scene.

It is a movie foretold by the stars to pull on people’s heartstrings this Christmas.

Perfect holiday gift fit for every user’s lifestyle

'AaBaKaDa' by Tyrone James Luanzon explores the imminent possibilities brought by the influx of foreigners in the country.

MMFF 2020 showcases student short films THE annual Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2020 features short stories by promising studentfilmmakers from all over the country.

Several entries were supposed part of the initial 2020 Summer MMFF Student Short Film Competition, which was postponed due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The tilt, along with other activities, has been moved to be part of the annual MMFF Christmas tradition.

This year’s edition is held online through Filipino streaming service Upstream.

AaBaKaDa; Sala, Salin-Laway; Sina Alexa, Xander at Ang Universe, and Paano Maging Babae come from Digital Filmmaking (DFilm) sophomores from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde School of Design and Arts.

AaBaKaDa by Tyrone James Luanzon explores the imminent possibilities brought by the influx of foreigners in the country. The comedic Sala, Salin-Laway by Daniella Verzosa brings the viewers inside the Filipino household wherein the Miss Universe mania unites not just the family, but the whole barangay in one living room.

Sina Alexa, Xander, at ang Universe by Vahn Leinard Pascual reminds the spectators to enjoy the simple wonders of life through a play of pageantry among siblings, while Paano Maging Babae by Gian Arre seeks to answer the titular question when one woman decides to speak up against social injustices brought about by misogyny.

Included in the line-up are Balik-Bayan from the University of Makati, Kyokok (Nilingaw) from the Western Mindanao State University, and Lipstick and Paraisong Parisukat from the Philippine High School for Art. Rounding out the selections are Laruang Baril from the Far Eastern University and Garbo from the University of Southeastern Philippines.

The flicks exhibit Filipino culture and tradition in each home and likewise tackle the current social and political conditions in the country.

Together with this year’s full-length films, the students’ shorts are available worldwide starting today and may be viewed on the video-ondemand platform Upstream PH through this link: https://upstream.ph/mmff/.

For more information about the screening guidelines as well as the featured films of the MMFF 2020, visit the official Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/mmffofficial/.

The Clash grand champions Golden Canedo, Jeremiah Tiangco, and Jessica Villarubin

‘The Clash Christmas Special: Pasko Para sa Lahat’ AMIDST a challenging year, the holiday season has a way of reminding us that there are still many reasons to be happy and inspired.

This Christmas, GMA Network’s all original singing competition, The Clash, brings together former clashers, hosts, and The Clash panel together for a night filled with spectacular musical numbers in The Clash Christmas Special: Pasko Para sa Lahat!

Inspirational songs of resilience and hope will be told through timeless songs by Clash Masters Julie Anne San Jose and Rayver Cruz, journey hosts Rita Daniela and Ken Chan, The Clash panel composed of Pops Fernandez, Christian Bautista, and Aiai delas Alas, and Grand Champions Golden Canedo, Jeremiah Tiangco, and Jessica Villarubin.

After a two-month absence from the program, The Clash panel Lani Misalucha returns to tell her story and her continuing struggle to get back on her feet. She will also give a heartfelt rendition of a Christmas classic.

Like the “trending queen” that she is, judge Aiai will amp up the fun with yet another performance of one of international K-pop group BLACKPINK’s hit songs.

Julie and Rayver, together with Rita and Ken, are bound to make viewers swoon with a sweet serenade featuring a romantic Christmas song.

Finalists from Seasons 1 to 3 will also take part in the celebration with special numbers while messages of thanksgiving and hope will be shared by the biggest stars of the network.

Gather round the family and celebrate the holiday with The Clash Christmas Special: Pasko Para sa Lahat! tonight after 24 Oras on GMA-7.

GIVE your loved ones the gift of clear and continues to expand its coverage vibrant digital TV viewing this holiday to reach even more Filipinos across the country as it now season with GMA Affordabox.

As GMA Network’s 70th covers selected towns and cities anniversary gift to Filipino in Misamis Oriental in Mindanao, viewers, GMA Affordabox which includes Cagayan de Oro, as provides superior digital well as Camiguin.

It is also available in selected areas reception with bonus features that suit every user’s lifestyle. Catch all in Metro Manila, Benguet, La Union, the Kapuso channels GMA, GMA News Pangasinan, Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva TV, Heart of Asia, and Hallypop as well Ecija, Tarlac, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, as other free-to-air channels in digital Quezon, Rizal, Bohol, Cebu, Leyte, Davao de Oro, Davao del Sur, and Davao broadcast available per area. del Norte.

DepEd TV on GMA Affordabox For a one-time affordable Channel 7 Helping the country’s efforts to curb price of P888 with no monthly the spread of COVID-19 and at the same fees, GMA Affordabox is clearly the time continuing to enrich the lives of perfect gift idea this Christmas. It may be Filipinos, DepEd TV is set to be available purchased in appliance stores and malls, soon on GMAAffordabox’s Channel 7. This or online via the official GMA Store on is part of GMA’s recent agreement with Shopee and Lazada.

For more details, visit www. the Department of Education (DepEd) in providing a free digital channel for Filipino GMAaffordabox.com and its official social media accounts via the handle @ learners all over the country.

Taking Kapuso viewers’ GMAaffordabox. For inquiries, contact entertainment experience to a whole new (02) 8857-4627 or 0961-252-9393 from level, GMA Affordabox comes with a 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., or e-mail support@ built-in multimedia player that makes it an GMAaffordabox.com. all-around digital file access device allowing users to play compatible video files, view photos, and even listen to music using a USB drive. Its one-of-a-kind personal video recorder allows viewers to rewatch their favorite Kapuso shows using instant or scheduled recording.

On top of its advanced features, it also has a nationwide Emergency Warning Broadcast System (EWBS) that receives alerts from the NDRRMC about any calamity warnings in their area as well as an auto-on alert function.

GMA Affordabox expands GMA Affordabox, the perfect holiday gift fit reach to Misamis Oriental for every user’s lifestyle, was launched in line GMA Affordabox likewise with the network's 70th year.

CIGNAL TV, TV5, and MVP Group of Companies enjoin Filipinos to spark hope this Christmas AS FAMILIES and communities continue to rebuild after the ravages of the pandemic and recent natural calamities, Cignal TV, TV5, and the entire MVP Group of Companies have come together for the “Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Pasko Movement” with its mission of spreading positivity and holiday cheer to fellow Filipinos, from all walks of life, this Christmas.

The Yuletide Season is the epitome of family, tradition, and celebration; whether it’s through bountiful Noche Buena feasts, family gatherings, or acts of generosity. Though the holidays may feel different this year, now is the time to imbibe the spirit of togetherness and make it most felt. Through this CSR effort, noche buena treats will be distributed to identified beneficiaries, as noche buena isn't just about delicious food, but a special meal that represents the warmth and hope all families wish to share in the face of these uncertain times. Avenues to pledge donations have been created for those who want to be part of the movement.

The “Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Pasko Movement” invites everyone to show compassion. It is an open call for

'Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Pasko Movement' aims to spread positivity and holiday cheer his Christmas.

Kapatids to be a ray of hope and brighten up someone else’s Christmas especially those in need. This season, we are urged to foster camaraderie and be positive enablers to make somebody’s Christmas happen.

To further the spread of the movements’ message, the “Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Pasko” theme song was created.

Written by Louie Ocampo with lyrics by Noel Ferrer, the song speaks volumes on what this initiative represents— that each one of us, through big or small acts of kindness, can make Christmas whole and meaningful. A heartwarming music video was also released featuring various stars and personalities; all of whom believe, support and adhere to what the movement imbibes.

This season, let us all carry out the true meaning of Christmas and be a blessing to our fellow Filipinos.

For those interested to be part of the “Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Pasko Movement,” you may donate through the Alagang Kapatid Foundation, Inc. through online bank transfer.

For more information on how you can extend help, visit TV5’s Facebook Page. Don’t forget to watch the movement’s music video “Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Pasko”, which is available online and will continue airing on TV5, One Sports, and Cignal TV organic channels (One PH, One News, Colours, Sari Sari, One Screen, One Sports Plus and PBA Rush) throughout the holidays.

Life

Bernadette Lunas, Editor manilastandardlife@gmail.com @manilastandardlife @MStandardLIFE

TRAVEL & LEISURE

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OUTDOOR EVENT. Japan Foundation, Manila director Tsutomu Suzuki, in a video message, welcomes guests in their cars to the opening night of the Japanese Film Festival Plus at the SM Cinema Drive-in at SM Mall of Asia.

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INCE its opening to the public in September, SM Mall of Asia’s drive-in cinema has hosted, a number of eager movie-goers who want to experience enjoying films on the big screen as well as several cross cultural events.

The first digital edition of the Japanese Film Festival Plus: Online Festival recently kicked off with an exclusive screening at the MOA outdoor theater.

The Japan Foundation, Manila, in partnership with the Embassy of Japan, SM Cinema, Film Development Council of the Philippines, and JT International Philippines, brought together the only hybrid Japanese Film Festival, which had an extended drive-in screenings of the opening film Project Dreams: How to Build Mazinger Z’s Hangar by Hanabusa Tsutomu.

The live-action Mazinger Z-inspired film by Hanabusa Tsutomu follows the journey of Maeda Corporation’s fantasy marketing department on a mission to make the impossible possible and challenge the boundaries between reality and fiction.

During the rest of the festival, Japanese film enthusiasts were treated with 28 full-length films online—ranging from comedy, romance, drama, thriller, documentary, animation, and classic movies, which were available for 24 hours in the newly launched JFF Plus website run by the Japan Foundation.

The Manila chapter of the foundation bid goodbye to the popular EIGASAI brand in March to embrace Japanese Film Festival with a fresh selection of fun and exciting films. In 2016, the Japa-

Japanese film festival kicks off at drive-in cinema

French Embassy Cultural Attaché Martin Macalintal

Association of Filipino Nihongo Teachers president Bernadette Hieida with Alfred Delos Reyes and Kristine Alma Cambay.

Japan Foundation, Manila program officer Skyzx Labastilla and Senate of the Philippines legislative research service director Nicolas Pichay.

nese Foundation has re-branded its mostanticipated film event as the Japanese Film Festival with the same mission to promote Japanese film around the world.

The Japanese Film Festival remains an avenue to celebrate Japanese culture in the Philippines and increase people’s interest in Japanese films, as well as bridge the Asia Pacific film market and the Japanese film industry for possible collaborations.

Suzuki (rightmost) attends the opening event of the Japanese Film Festival at SM MOA drive-in theater with (from left) assistant director Wataru Abe, program coordinator Kanami Namiki, assistant director Tomoko Nakamura, and SM senior vice president for marketing Millie Dizon.

Christmas cheer for sports tourism

MERRY CHRISTMAS, dear Readers.

May our Lord continue to pour His blessings upon all of you! The challenges we face in this pandemic is His way of making us stronger, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Here’s a good example. I have to hand it to Charles Lim, founder and president of the prestigious Philippine Sports Tourism Awards. He defied all odds! When he mentioned to me, during the early months of this pandemic, that he still planned to push through with this yearly event, I thought he has had too many sips of Jack Daniels.

Well, it turned out that he doesn’t drink and was dead serious with his plan.

Two months ago, when he sounded like he had already finalized all the details of the event, deep in my heart I still had strong doubts that such a scheme would come to fruition. I honestly felt that, because people were too preoccupied with having to deal with this global malady, it would be very difficult for his quixotic plan to attract the support of sponsors or even of the awardees themselves.

But his “go-getter” attitude and his

The modern-day Merlin, Charles Lim, founder and president of the Philippine Sports Tourism Awards.

Dumaguete City Mayor Felipe Remollo was honored with two trophies, one for his city and another one for himself.

“hang tough” spirit proved me wrong.

He was able to bring in, easily, all the sponsors and participants he needed to make it a memorable evening for the awardees. The venue was packed to within the limits set by our Inter-Agency Task Force. Amidst the usual health protocols, the glittering evening proceeded without a hitch.

In my book, Charles Lim is a presentday Merlin, and he has brought Christmas cheer not only to sports tourism, but also to the whole industry.

A total of 16 personalities and sports tourism supporters clutched their respective 2019 trophies at the end of the evening, all of them brimming with expectant faith that sports tourism will definitely spark a faster reboot of our tourism industry.

Named as the Sports Tourism Charity Event was Resort World Manila’s Run With Me X, the entertainment complex’s yearly project which promotes health, charity, and camaraderie. Last year had

The awardees pose for posterity with their trophies.

Sonny Barrios, executive director of Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, receives the award for Manny Pangilinan.

7,000 runners, breaking the tally of 5,000 the year before.

The award for Sports Tourism Adventure Event was given to Tour de Cebu. It is a convoy of approximately 70 vintage and classic sports cars going around Cebu and Negros Oriental, promoting the attractions and the culture of the places visited.

The Sports Tourism Event (Domestic) was the TinMan of Tri Ilocos Norte which is a multisport innovation serving as a platform for health-conscious communities, while working for their sustainable development. The award for this category’s International division was given to 70.3 Ironman Cebu, the iconic triathlon event which, last year, attracted 2,200 participants from 57 countries.

Of course, the Sports Tourism Airline was Philippine Airlines, for its hosting of the PAL Interclub, the longest running (72 years) amateur golf annual championship.

Held in Cebu last year, there were 101 participating teams, including players from a dozen countries using approximately

The glittering stage, all set for the evening’s activities.

3,000 room nights in various Cebu hotels.

Chosen Sports Tourism Organizer (Government) was Dumaguete City, for consistently supporting and organizing sports events on a year-round basis.

The award for the Private division of this category was given to Sunrise Events Inc., for its staging of more than a dozen sporting events each year, including Xterra, Ironkids, Irongirl, and its centerpiece, Ironman 70.3.

Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc. was honored for being the prime brand enabler for sports tourism in the country, having fully supported the 25th Siargao International Cup. Named as the Sports Tourism Hotel was The Mansion Boutique Hotels and Villas, for providing athletes and coaches excellent training facilities and dietary requirements that suit would-be champions.

People’s Television Network was awarded for Sports Tourism Media Coverage, for its PTV Sports, the country’s only all-sports-news program. The Triathlon Association of the Philippines won the Sports Tourism Association award, as the impressive governing body for triathlon events during the Southeast Asian Games.

It is no surprise that New Clark City, the modern facility which accommodated more than 8,000 athletes from 11 countries during the Southeast Asian Games, was chosen as the Sports Tourism Venue.

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority was honored with the Sports Tourism Destination Marketing award, for consistently hosting a monthly average of 80 sports and MICE events through the years, and for hosting 17 sports events during the Southeast Asian Games. The Sports Tourism Destination award went to Clark Freeport Zone, for continuing to

elevate the sports industry standards in the country with its top-notch and exceptional venues.

Sports Tourism Personality (Private) was Manny Pangilinan, who served as the first President and is now the Chairman Emeritus of Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP). He also put up the MVP Sports Foundation which continues to support and develop world-class sports champions. His award was received by Sonny Barrios, SBP executive director.

The Sports Tourism Personality (Government) was given to Felipe Remollo, Mayor of Dumaguete City, for successfully hosting and providing support to more than a dozen national and regional events in his city. He is also credited for Clark’s popularity as a sports destination because he started it all, with his sports tourism development plan, nine years ago when he was the chief executive officer of Clark Development Corp.

And that’s what my present-day Merlin, Charles Lim, put together for this year, in spite of the debilitating impact of the pandemic currently gripping our world. Boy, am I glad he’s part of our industry! Easy as pie, he brought Christmas cheer to sports tourism.

YOUR WEEKEND CHUCKLE “Fine”—a deadly word a woman says to her husband when ending an argument because she’s so convinced she’s right and he needs to shut up.

For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@ gmail.com.