Manila Standard - 2021 January 17 - Sunday by Manila Standard

VOL. XXXIV • NO. 313 • 2 SECTIONS 8 PAGES • P18 • SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

DINAGYANG GOES ONLINE. The ‘Pamukaw’ heralds the Dinagyang 2021 celebration with the rousing beat of the drums heard across social and mainstream media in Iloilo City. The festivities were streamed on various digital platforms in keeping with social distancing protocols amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Arnold Almacen/Iloilo City Mayor’s Office

No EUA, no vaccine buy—Palace • CHR calls for ‘equitable access’ • Galvez: Vaccines not overpriced

By Maricel V. Cruz and Willie Casas

ALACAÑANG said the country may not push through with its purchase of Sinovac COVID-19 vaccines if the Chinese pharmaceutical firm fails to get an Emergency Use Authorization from the Food and Drug Administration.

“No vaccine can be used by the government without EUA,” presidential spokesman Harry Roque said Saturday. During a Senate hearing on Friday, vaccine czar Carlito Galvez and testing czar Vince Dizon were grilled on why the government was bent on purchasing the Sinavoc vaccine when its efficacy lagged behind other brands. Dizon said if the vaccine-expert panel would not recommend the vaccine and the FDA would not grant it an EUA, then the government would not go ahead with the purchase. Galvez also assured senators the Sinovac procurement was not yet a done deal. So far, the Philippine FDA has only

granted EUA to Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine – a vaccine which has been found 95 percent effective in its study population and 92 percent effective among all races after Philippine FDA evaluation. Before Pfizer-BioNTech’s secured its Philippine EUA, it had secured EUAs from the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Singapore, among others. Meanwhile, the Commission on Human Rights called on the national government to ensure an “equal distribution of and access to” COVID-19 vaccines. “From a human rights perspective, equitable vaccination promotes and protects public health of the entire nation for ‘no one will be secure until everyone is secure,’”

Commissioner Gwendolyn Pimentel-Gana said in a statement. Gana said the CHR was concerned that local government units in urban centers and metropolitan areas had been “lining up to gain immediate and priority access to COVID-19 vaccines seemingly ahead of others.” “It is the responsibility of the national government to make sure that vaccines must be as accessible for Filipinos in urban cities as well as those situated in far-flung areas of the country where there is a known cluster of infected population,” Gana said. “There may be local government units with a host of infected residents who may not have resources to urgently procure vaccines. The national government must step in to maintain a balanced access to the Covid-19 vaccines,” she added. Gana added the distribution of vaccines should “ensure the rapid, coordinated, and equitable access to Covid-19 vaccines for all Filipinos wherever they may be residing in the country.” She also reminded the government of its obligation to uphold the people’s right to health, and this includes a vac-

cination program. “Since a vaccination program is part of the government’s obligation to uphold the people’s right to health, it must then also adhere to the standards of availability, accessibility, acceptability, and quality,” she said. “Such standards include the people right to know and be assured of a vaccine’s effectiveness and that it is scientifically and medically appropriate and of good quality,” she added. Gana said should the government fail to roll out the vaccination program for all in one go, “then it must work for its progressive realization – efficiently and effectively, in partnership with possible sectors, and to the best effort and resources it can devote—until we ensure that no one gets left behind.” “An efficient vaccination system promotes the universal quest for everyone to be accorded the right to a standard of living adequate for one’s health and well-being, especially in the aspect of medical care. An effective national vaccination strategy is a vital component of an efficient national health care program, and an undeniable human right,” she added

COVID-19 PH AT A GLANCE

(AS OF 4 PM JAN. 16)

498,691 TOTAL NUMBER OF CASES

2,058 28,674 NEW

9,884

ACTIVE

DEATHS

NEW

460,133

406

RECOVERIES

NEW

LOCAL ROUNDUP

Patient with UK China ‘firmly stands’ with PH vs virus, donates 500k vaccines strain no longer has symptoms

CHINESE Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s commitment to help the Philippines fight the COVID-19 pandemic, with a promise to donate 500,000 vaccines and a P3.72 billion economic and technocal cooperation grant agreement to finance livelihood abd infrastructure projects. He paid a courtesy call on President Rodrigo Duterte Saturday before concluding his two-day official visit in the country as part of his three-nation Southeast Asian swing. Wang also held bilateral talks with his counterpart, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr., who cited China’s crucial role in the post-pandemic recovery of the Philippines and the global economy. “China’s powerful economy and the biggest consumer middle class in history of 800 million impart to her an essential indeed imperative role in the post pandemic global recovery. Even in the resurgence of the pandemic worldwide and even in China, China has already recovered the gains she lost,” Locsin said.

ONLINE BIZ COACH ON WORKING SMART When Kassy Pajarillo-Braganza lost her job as a marketing consultant in the early part of 2018, she started her own startup venture with $90 in her pocket and capitalized on her LinkedIn network.

Wang, for his part, underscored the importance of a mutually-beneficial cooperation between the two countries. “Standing at this new starting point of 2021, facing challenges beyond COVID-19, it is important for us to make an early plan of our interactions and cooperation for the whole year, shelve differences and build common ground, work closely with each other to firmly move forward along the course, and create more fruitful outcomes for our comprehensive strategic and cooperative relationship,” Wang said in his speech delivered in Mandarin. “COVID response and economic recovery will be the top two priorities for both of our countries... China as a friend of the Philippines and your closest neighbor, we will firmly stand with the people of the Philippines until the defeat of this virus,” he added. As for Wang’s announcement on the vaccine donation, the Department of Foreign Affairs said it up to the donor to determine from which companies the vaccine will come from.

TRUMP TO SKIP BIDEN’S INAUGURATION

SAMSUNG, VIU GIVE FREE K-DRAMA FIX Samsung has partnered with Viu for a free Viu Premium subscription for a year, so you can watch the latest shows ad-free on a bigger screen.

By the time Joe Biden is sworn in as the 46th US president Wednesday, his scandal-tainted predecessor Donald Trump will already be far away, having helicoptered out of the White House a last time earlier that morning.

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President Rodrigo Duterte welcomes visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a courtesy call Saturday. Wang reiterated China’s commitment to help the Philippines in its battle against the pandemic. RTVM

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Big-time oil price increase looms OIL firms are poised to implement another round of price hike for petroleum products in the coming week, Unioil Petroleum Philippines said Saturday. In its fuel price forecast for the January 19 to 25 trading week, Unioil said diesel prices may go up by P1.00 to P1.10 per liter while gasoline prices may increase by P0.90 to P1.00 per liter Year-to-date adjustments stand at a net increase of P1.30 per liter for gasoline, P0.60 per liter for diesel, and P0.65 per liter for kerosene.

THE country’s first case of the mutated COVID-19 strain is now asymptomatic and is waiting for medical clearance, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte said Saturday. “He is asymptomatic. He does not have any more symptoms and we are waiting for him to finish his antibiotics and a doctor’s declaration that he is well. He is actually OK. He did not need to be moved into a hospital,” Belmonte said. The 29-year-old male patient, a resident of Brgy. Kamuning, flew back to the Philippines from the United Arab Emirates on January 7 via Emirates Flight No. EK 332. Strengthen contact tracing Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong Jr., who is also the country’s contact tracing czar, has urged local government units to strengthen their tracing efforts following the first confirmed case of the more transmissible UK coronavirus variant. “They should not simply rely on the Department of Health and the Philippine National Police,” Magalong said Saturday. “Local governments should take the leap in contact tracing,” he added. No Traslacion effect yet The OCTA Research Group said on Saturday that they have yet to see the effect of the Feast of the Black Nazarene, which many feared could have been a superspreader event. Dr. Guido David said the recent spike in infections may be attributed to increased activity over the holidays even as the reproduction rate is already stabilizing. “We’re hoping that it won’t turn out to be a superspreader event because we’re not seeing any indications yet,” he said.

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Refusal to seek presidency ‘not the end of the world’—Sara

PREVENTIVE MEASURES. Members of the Manila Police District conduct security assesment on the eve of the Feast of the Infant Jesus outside the Sto. Niño de Tondo Church in Moriones, Manila, on Jan. 16, 2021. The Manila City government earlier announced that there will be no street parties, stage shows, parades, parlor games, and other outdoor activities during the celebration to avoid the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Norman Cruz

World migration down 30%—UN T HE coronavirus pandemic has slowed global migration by nearly 30 percent, with around two million fewer people than predicted migrating between 2019 and 2020, according to a UN report. Some 281 million people were living outside their country of origin in 2020. The report, entitled “International Migration 2020,” showed that twothirds of registered migrants lived in

just 20 countries, with the United States at the top of the list, with 51 million international migrants in 2020. Next came Germany with 16 million, Saudi Arabia with 13 million, Russia

with 12 million and Britain with nine million. India topped the list of countries with the largest diasporas in 2020, with 18 million Indians living outside their country of birth. Other countries with a large transnational community include Mexico and Russia, each with 11 million, China with 10 million and Syria with eight million. In 2020, the largest number of inter-

national migrants resided in Europe, with a total of 87 million. Nearly half of international migrants resided in the region they came from, with Europe accounting for the largest share of intra-regional migration. Seventy percent of migrants born in Europe live in another European country. Refugees account for some 12 percent of all international migrants, the report said, with around 80 percent hosted in low- and middle-income countries.

‘Rehire casual, contractual state workers’ By Maricel V. Cruz A PARTY-LIST lawmaker on Saturday urged government agencies to rehire or renew the job contracts of an estimated 700,000 casual and contractual employees in the bureaucracy who lost their jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Anakalusugan Rep. Mike Defensor made the proposal to address the unemployment due to the pandemic. “These casual, contractual, joborder personnel, or whatever we call them, should be rehired. We should not add to the joblessness in the country and to the suffering of our people caused by the pandemic by terminating their services,” he said. The employment contracts of these personnel expired last Dec. 31. Defensor said the House of Representatives should set the example and take the lead in rehiring casual and contractual employees by renewing the contracts of its affected personnel. He said contractual, casual and JO employees do an important job in the bureaucracy, as they fill vacant positions and help regular personnel. He said the government, which is the country’s biggest employer, has the funds to continue employing these workers. “The funds for salaries we appropriate in the annual budget include compensation for these workers. So there will be funds in this year’s budget for their continued employment,” he added. Defensor cautioned agencies against choosing to not rehire such employees in an attempt to generate savings that they could use for other purposes.

TO PUT FOOD ON THE TABLE. Fishermen haul their catch of the day in Rosario, Cavite. Jr. Josue

Defensor

Romualdez

Romualdez: Work with all blocs to continue By Maricel V. Cruz HOUSE of Representatives’ Majority Leader Martin Romualdez on Saturday expressed commitment to continuously work with all blocs at the chamber to shepherd the priority measures of the Duterte administration. Romualdez’s statement came as former Speaker and Taguig Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano formed the “BTS sa Kongreso” coalition or “Back to Service,” where Romualdez’s friend, Anakalusugan Rep. Mike Defensor is a member. “I respect Mike’s diligence, views and opinions, political and otherwise,” the president of Lakas-CMD, who is also representing his congressional district in Leyte, said in a statement. Last Thursday, Cayetano launched

his coalition with five other former House leaders as members, aside from Defensor. During the coalition’s launch in Quezon City, Defensor, former chairperson of the House Committee on Public Accounts, mentioned his being a close ally of Romualdez and an affiliate of the erstwhile administration party Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (CMD). “Congressman Mike Defensor is a friend, a dear friend. It is also true that he is affiliated with our party, the Lakas-CMD, along other partylist congressmen and congresswomen who we consider as allies in the House of Representatives,” Romualdez said in response. “More than a friend to Mike, I am the Majority Leader of the House of Representatives. It is my duty to work as a leader not only of the major-

ity coalition, but also of the minority and independent House Members,” Romualdez stressed. Cayetano earlier said his bloc “aims to bring back service to the heart of legislators.” Cayetano lamented the fact that the House under the leadership of his predecessor, Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, had become focused on politics as evidenced by current moves to amend the Constitution. He admitted that using “BTS” was intended to “get people’s attention” since it is also the name of the South Korean boy band considered to be the biggest musical act in the world today. He said in the case of the new group, “BTS” means two things: “back to service Congress” and “bayanihan, tapang, serbisyo” (cooperation, courage, service).”

PRESIDENTIAL daughter Sara Duterte-Carpio, the incumbent mayor of Davao City, has spoken: No intention to run for president in 2022 to succeed her by then outgoing president-father. Her statement, reported by Ivan Mayrina’s on “24 Oras” Friday, quoted her as telling the British-based news agency Reuters that she would not be a late entry in the presidential race as her father was in 2016. The statement doused water on political speculation, raised by some pundits, that Sara would run for president while her father would be her running mate. “I am not being coy nor am I doing a last minute. If the whole country doesn’t want to believe that, then I can’t do anything about it. Not everyone wants to be president. I am one of them,” Sara said. “I thank all of them for their trust and confidence in what I can do but my refusal to run for president is not the end of the world,” she told Reuters. Sara had earlier topped a Pulse Asia survey on possible candidates for president in the 2022 elections but she said she was not interested and asked survey firms to exclude her in similar surveys in the future. Earlier, Duterte said the presidency was not for women as he discouraged his daughter from running for president in 2022 despite being urged by many. The president said the presidency was not for women, given their emotional setup—a comment criticized by some lawmakers for its mysogynistic slant.

Toned-down Panagbenga postponed BAGUIO CITY—The Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Inc. and the city government have decided to postpone the city’s annual flower festival, otherwise known as “Panagbenga” this year. Andrew Pinero, chairman of the media committee of the festival, made the announcement to the local media on Saturday. “In a meeting yesterday (Friday) between the BFFFI (Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Inc.) Execom and Mayor (Benjamin) Magalong, they have decided to postpone the toneddown version of Panagbenga 2021,” Pinero said. The month-long annual festival formally opens every February 1 with the two major crowd-drawing grand events -- street dancing and float parades -- happening on the third weekend of February. Hundreds of thousands of people await the two grand parades that bring in revenues to the local economy. The decision is in consideration of the safety of the residents. “With the health and safety as the primary concern due to the entry of the UK (United Kingdom) variant of COVID-19 in the country and the pending rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine, both have decided to move the conduct of the Panagbenga at (sic) a later date,” Pinero added. In a phone interview, Pinero said it might or might not happen this year as further decisions would be based on the assessment of current developments. “Health and safety are more important that is why there is a need to assess when it will be held,” he said. He said if the rollout of the vaccine this year would be successful and would live up to the expectations that all people inoculated were protected from the virus, such could be a good time to have the festival.

Agents seize P1.5-m illegal Chinese COVID medicines By Joel E. Zurbano GOVERNMENT agents seized P1.5 million worth of Chinese medicines during a raid at a facility in Pasay City believed being used for treatment of patients infected with coronavirus disease. Members of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service conducted the operation on Jan. 14 in close coordination with the Coast Guard and National Bureau of Investigation.

During the raid, the authorities found a makeshift clinic storing assorted Chinese medicines, including “Ribavirin” drug used for treatment of pneumonia and bronchitis, thus leading to strong suspicion that the clinic was treating cases related to COVID-19. Representatives from the facility were invited to appear for questioning to explain the makeshift clinic and the presence of the unauthorized Chinese medicines. CIIS-Manila International Con-

tainer Port officials warned the public against the use of medicines without the proper Department of Health and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearances. They also appealed to the public to avoid seeking treatment from fly-bynight clinics that might cause further health risks. President Rodrigo Duterte had made a marching order to go after unscrupulous individuals taking advantage of the pandemic.

World

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Trump to skip Joe Biden’s inauguration BY THE time Joe Biden is sworn in as the 46th US president Wednesday, his scandal-tainted predecessor Donald Trump will already be far away, having helicoptered out of the White House a last time earlier that morning, an official said Friday. Trump will be the first president in a century and a half to snub the inauguration of his successor. An official who asked not to be identified said Trump would go to his Mar-a-Lago golf club in Florida, which is his legal residence and will become home after the White House. He is expected to be out of town well before Biden is sworn in on the steps of the Capitol building at exactly noon. After spending more than two months trying to overturn the results of the November election, pushing false conspiracy theories about fraud, Trump’s presence had not been expected at the inauguration. The final straw came on January 6 when Trump gathered a huge crowd of supporters on the National Mall and once more claimed that they had to fight to stop a fraudulent election. A mob then stormed Congress, halting proceedings underway to certify Biden’s win. For longer than anyone can remember, outgoing presidents have stood by their replacement on the Capitol steps, watching them take the oath -- and in so doing showing visible support for the peaceful transfer of power. Trump, who was impeached for a record second time in the wake of the Congress storming, has also broken with more discreet protocol by refusing to invite Biden and his wife Jill Biden to the White House for a traditional cup of tea in the Oval Office. On Friday, Vice President Mike Pence did make the gesture of telephoning his incoming counterpart Kamala Harris, a source said. Although this came only five days before inauguration day -- and more than two months after the election -- The New York Times said Pence offered his congratulations and belated assistance to Harris, describing the exchange as “gracious and pleasant.” AFP

Rescuers search for survivors at a collapsed building in Mamuju city on January 16, 2021, a day after a 6.2-magnitude earthquake rocked Indonesia’s Sulawesi island. AFP

Hunt for buried survivors after Indonesian quake R ESCUERS scrambled to find buried survivors Saturday after a powerful earthquake on Indonesia’s Sulawesi island killed dozens, injured hundreds and left more feared trapped in the rubble of collapsed buildings.

At least 45 people died after the 6.2-magnitude quake struck in the early hours of Friday, triggering panic among residents of the island, which was hit by a 2018 quake-tsunami disaster that killed

thousands. Dozens of bodies have been hauled from beneath crumpled buildings in Mamuju, a city of about 110,000 in West Sulawesi province, while others were killed south of the area after the quake struck. “The latest data we have is 45” dead, said Arianto from the rescue agency in Mamuju, who like many Indonesians goes by one name. The toll was up from 42 on Friday evening. Authorities have not given a figure for the number of residents who could be trapped under levelled buildings, including a hospital that collapsed with more than a dozen patients and staff inside. At least one hotel had partially collapsed, while the regional governor’s of-

fice also suffered extensive damage. About 15,000 residents have fled to temporary shelters and nearly 190 people were being treated for serious injuries, local authorities said. ‘Heartfelt solidarity’ The Pope said he was “saddened” to learn of the quake. “His Holiness Pope Francis expresses his heartfelt solidarity with all those affected by this natural disaster,” the Vatican said in a statement. “He prays for the repose of the deceased, the healing of the injured and the consolation of all who grieve.” Images from the scene Friday showed residents trying to flee Mamuju in cars and motorbikes as they drove past corrugated metal roofs and other building debris scattered on the roadside. AFP

National Guard activated amid possible unrest THE governor of Florida has activated the National Guard to protect against “potential civil unrest” surrounding the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden, as armed groups are expected to protest at statehouses across the country this weekend. The order signed by Governor Ron DeSantis -- which took effect immediately and lasts through January 24 -calls on National Guard troops to support local and state law enforcement. The governor’s order comes as authorities are on high alert after last week’s attack on the US Congress in Washington by supporters of outgoing President Donald Trump. Law enforcement officials have warned that armed groups plan to protest at statehouses across the country in the days surrounding Biden’s inauguration Wednesday in Washington. DeSantis’s order came after federal authorities arrested an Army veteran who urged armed counter-protesters to turn out at Florida’s state Capitol. Daniel Baker, of Tallahassee, was arrested after calling on social media for an armed response to protesters who are expected to gather at the Florida statehouse this Sunday, a Justice Department statement said. “Extremists intent on violence from either end of the political and social spectrums must be stopped, and they will be stopped,” said Lawrence Keefe, US Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. “We will not stop in our efforts to detect, deter and disrupt anyone else planning to incite or commit violence,” he added. Prosecutors said Baker was actively recruiting, and posted videos showing himself with numerous weapons. On January 6, a mob of Trump supporters -- who do not recognize his defeat at the polls -- stormed the Capitol in Washington in an attack that left five people dead. Trump has built a strong base in the battleground state of Florida, thanks to support from rural white voters and farright Latinos. AFP

Razor wire is seen after being installed on the fence surrounding the grounds of the U.S. Capitol on January 15, 2021 in Washington, DC. Due to security threats following last week’s storming of the US Capitol by a pro-Trump mob, law enforcement agencies have increased security measures along the National Mall and much of downtown Washington, DC, essentially closing down the Mall a week ahead of President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration. (Inset) Maj. Gen. John Rhodes greets National Guard soldiers with a fist bump before their guard shifts at the US Capitol building. AFP

‘Friend’ China to donate one million vaccine doses to Cambodia: PM CHINA will donate one million doses of its Sinovac coronavirus vaccine to Cambodia, the kingdom’s strongman premier Hun Sen has said, thanking “friend” Beijing for its generosity. Cambodia has long been a staunch ally of Beijing, receiving billions of dollars in soft loans and investment from China. While many countries reacted early in the pandemic by closing its borders

to Chinese travellers, Hun Sen refused, and even travelled to Beijing to meet with leader Xi Jinping in a show of solidarity. The premier announced late Friday that China has offered to donate shots made by the firm Sinovac. “Friend China is helping us with one million doses,” Hun Sun said in an audio message on his official Facebook page, adding that the doses will vacci-

nate 500,000 people. “To prevent the nation and people from being infected with this deadly virus, we have to use vaccines that were already used on Chinese leaders and millions of people... We cannot wait any longer.” The first people to get the jab would include frontline health workers, teachers, soldiers, the premier’s bodyguards, and officials around the king, he said. AFP

Hong Kong slams Washington for ‘insane’ sanctions HONG Kong on Saturday hit back at the United States over its latest sanctions on six pro-China officials, slamming the move as “insane, shameless and despicable.” The US announced on Friday it was imposing sanctions on the half dozen officials, including Hong Kong’s sole representative to China’s top lawmaking body, over the arrests of more than 50 pro-democracy activists in the financial hub. In a statement, the Hong Kong government expressed “utmost anger” and denounced the “coercive measures” which it said was Washington’s latest attempt to intervene in China’s internal affairs and obstruct the city’s effort to safeguard national security. China last year imposed a draconian security law in Hong Kong after widespread and sometimes violent protests that sought to preserve the territory’s separate freedoms. At least 90 people have been arrested under the security law which mandates up to life imprisonment for any offence Beijing views as “secession, subversion, collusion with foreign forces and terrorism”. The latest mass arrest, described by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as “appalling,” include US-born human rights lawyer John Clancey, prominent activist Joshua Wong and law professor Benny Tai. “The US Government has exploited every incident and excuse to make slandering remarks about the National Security Law,” a government spokesperson said in a statement. “We could not help but suspect that the National Security Law has touched a nerve of those foreign or external forces,” the spokesperson added. The US has earlier imposed sanctions on Hong Kong’s top leader, Chief Executive Carrie Lam, who later acknowledged that she has had to rely on cash and can no longer hold a bank account. Yesterday’s sanctions hit Tam Yiu-Chung, the Hong Kong delegate to the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, and You Quan, the vice chairman of the Chinese government group that handles policy toward Hong Kong and fellow former colony Macau. Three Hong Kong security officials were also hit by the sanctions, which restrict any US transactions with them. AFP

India starts massive vaccine drive INDIA was set to begin one of the world’s largest coronavirus vaccination drives Saturday as the pandemic spread at a record pace and global COVID-19 deaths surged past two million. The World Health Organization has called for accelerating vaccine rollouts worldwide as well as ramping up efforts to study the sequencing of the virus, which has infected more than 93 million people globally since it was first detected in China in late 2019. India, home to 1.3 billion people, has

the world’s second-largest caseload, and the government has given approvals to two vaccines -- though one is yet to complete clinical trials -- aiming to inoculate around 300 million people by July. Authorities say they are drawing on their experience with elections and child immunisation programmes for the drive, which is a daunting task in an enormous, impoverished nation with often shoddy transport infrastructure and one of the world’s worst-funded healthcare systems. AFP

WINTER WONDERLAND. Children are pulled on sledges in a snowy landscape

near the small Bavarian village of Muensing, southern Germany, during nice sunny winter weather with temperatures by minus three degrees on January 15, 2021. AFP

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021

Business

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

Binalot Fiesta Foods wins HeroBrand award

Peopable Worldwide Corp. founder Kassy PajarilloBraganza

Online business coach shows how to earn more, work less

HEN Kassy PajarilloBraganza lost her job as a marketing consultant in the early part of 2018, she started her own startup venture with $90 in her pocket and capitalized on her LinkedIn network.

“It all started because I lost my job in 2018 and at that time I was looking for a job, and LinkedIn has always been a place I go to,” Braganza says in a virtual interview. Today, Braganza, who lives in Paranaque City with her husband Raymond, mentors students from all over the world, including a four-time Olympian from Europe, on how to earn more while working fewer hours. “I work three to four hours a week and am just zoning to what I am good at,” she says. Braganza is a top LinkedIn trainer and the founder of Peopable Worldwide Corp. which helps individuals and companies leverage on the power of LinkedIn on curating employee ambassadorship and advocacy programs, influencer marketing strategies and how individuals can drive their career through responsible social media marketing and personal branding. She says Linkedin, a social media platform for professionals and businessmen, played a pivotal role in making her dreams come true. As a LinkedIn trainer, she traveled the world and spoke in differ-

AIM harnesses AI to predict water shortfall RESEARCHERS from the Asian Institute of Management are harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and machine learning to help curb water shortage in the east service area of Metro Manila. The research team, led by Dr. Christopher Monterola, under the AIM-Analytics, Computing and Complex Systems Laboratory, developed a simulation modeling software to enhance Manila Water Company’s capability in forecasting the water supply system of Angat-Ipo-La Mesa Dams and its treatment plants and storage reservoir. “The forecast models will serve as a tool in day-to-day operations of the MWC for the enhanced distribution of water supply in the Manila East Zone to cater the needs of its consumers—household, business, and industries,” said Monterola. The team said they integrated different statistical, machine learning models and input parameters in the development of reliable forecast models from the water source to the MWC treatment plants. They have also completed the development of forecasting models for each dam. The project team is continuously retraining and redesigning the simulation model software by adding more input parameters relevant to the improvement of their methodology and model architectures. Members of the team said the modeling software could also be used to forecast the water supply of other dams in the Philippines, providing more opportunities for other agencies to get the benefit of this tool. The AIM-ACCesS team, with MWC, started the project in February 2020 with support from the Department of Science and Technology’s Collaborative Research and Development to Leverage Philippine Economy program and monitoring efforts from DOST-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development.

ent countries to inspire, motivate, coach and work with soul-led clients. Braganza, who studied Culinary Arts and Events Management at De La SalleCollege of Saint Benilde and attended marketing courses at Cornell University School of Hotel Administration and University of Pennsylvania-The Wharton School, also launched The After Six Club—a platform for collaboration, relationships and connecting humans. She also established Power Profile Biz Accelerator—a 12-month program where aspiring entrepreneurs can learn about a seven-figure business-in-a-box solution that can help them set up a profitable consulting and coaching business online. When the coronavirus pandemic halted economic activities in March 2020, she pivoted her business to offer an eightweek master class online which quickly gained a following. It grew into a sixfigure generating venture in less than 90 days amid the pandemic. Braganza says going digital is the new norm not only for entrepreneurs, but also for self-employed individuals. “This is the new way or new normal. I would like to think that 2020 is a global reset, not just for the Mother Earth, but also in the way of doing things. I see more consultants now,” she says. “I have been a consultant for businesses, in and out. And I love the way we get to do things because it streamlines to what you are good at and what your passion is,” says Braganza. She also sees the corporate structure changing. “The corporate ladder does not really have a big effect. I don’t see that ladder anymore because again it is now according to specific skills,” she says. Braganza says that Power Profile Biz

Accelerator helps individuals to focus on what they are good at, what are soulful for them and the people whom they love to work with. Among her mentees are a graphic designer, a wedding videographer and an Olympian who are now raking in multiple-six to seven figures while working less than 15 hours a week. “I’ve helped entrepreneurs start building their economy and design their legacy, from freelancer to CEO. I want to enable dreams and empower many to start an online business and have the freedom they desire with intention,” she says She says taking that radical step and making that one empowered decision open up endless possibilities. “I guide them how to have spacious, breathable schedule. I guide them to go to the path they love most and how to monetize it. I guide them on how they can actually gain clients without being salesy or pushy. It is really more about attraction marketing in terms of having soul-aligned clients come to you,” says Braganza, who serves as the Chief Encourager of Power Profile Biz Accelerator. “I believe that every person on earth has a powerful profile. All you have to do is find your voice, which is according to what you love and what you believe in. I also call it conviction marketing,” she says. “My fulfillment is sharing and being part of my mentees’ transformations. I get to witness and become part of their lives, making things possible and helping them realize that their aspirations and desires are within reach. It’s also having to wake up every day excited to serve and being able to spend time with intention and purpose,” she says. Roderick T. dela Cruz

Lalamove generates more jobs in 2021 DESPITE the challenges of 2020, Lalamove maintained a foothold in the delivery industry with a sustained growth. The pandemic has shown the value of same-day delivery and with the continuous rise of online businesses, Lalamove invests further in fleet expansion to meet the growing demand while also creating more job opportunities. This year marks the launch of the sedan fleet of Lalamove, which has long been requested by its loyal customers. The new fleet will feature 200-kilogram weight capacity with dimensions of 3.5 x 2 x 2.5 ft. It falls perfectly between the motorcycle and the MPV category, promising a significant capacity upgrade from the motorcycle fleet and lower prices compared to the 300-kg MPVs. Business users stand to benefit from the new category as the food and beverage industry and online marketplaces have shown a steady increase in demand for

four-wheel deliveries. This also opens up great earning opportunities to more people whose livelihood has been affected by the pandemic. “Our goal this year is to further enhance the flexibility of our delivery services. The launch of the sedan fleet is our answer to the ever-growing needs of our customers while creating more jobs for the driving community,” said Dannah Majarocon, managing director of Lalamove Philippines. The 200-kg sedan fleet will be available to take on deliveries starting Feb. 1, 2021. Launched in the Philippines in 2017, Lalamove is an on-demand logistics company that matches drivers with customers and SME businesses to fulfil same-day deliveries. Its mission of making local deliveries faster and simpler is achieved through innovations such as instant order matching, real-time GPS vehicle tracking, 24/7 services and a driver rating system.

BINALOT Fiesta Foods Inc. received an award under the Established Hero category of the HeroBrand Awards for its contributions to the good of society. HeroBrand Awards celebrate companies and brands that are making the world a better place. “Heroes inspire us, they shape our culture and create history,” according to HeroBrand Awards. “Heroes elevate us emotionally. They strengthen us physically. Heroes change the way we see the world. They encourage us to transform ourselves for the better. Heroes give us hope.” The Established Hero category is for larger corporations that demonstrate a commitment to social good in communities and beyond. Binalot commits itself to give back to communities that support the company and provide assistance to those in need. DAHON, the company’s corporate social responsibility arm, runs projects that address issues on the environment, livelihood, education, poverty alleviation and calamity relief, all aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Leaf of Faith is one such program that sources banana leaves from marginalized farming communities. These banana leaves are used to pack meals that are sold

in Binalot stores. For over a decade, it has provided small-time banana farmers with an added opportunity to profit from the banana trees growing in their backyards while ensuring that Binalot has a steady and reliable source for all its stores across Metro Manila. Binalot, after all, is famous for its classic Filipino meals wrapped in a banana leaf—stamping the traditional Filipino brand in a modern fast-food setting. The Eggciting Harvest program is another DAHON livelihood project that introduced salted egg production to a community located in the foothills of Nagcarlan, Laguna. It aims to improve further the economic condition of the farmers and their spouses. It has enabled the matriarchs to supply Binalot with high-quality salted eggs to its stores. This allows them to earn additional income while in the comforts of their community. The BAYANI program covers relief operations during disasters such as typhoons. With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, its recent efforts focused on soliciting pledges from companies and individuals to provide hot meals to both medical and non-medical frontliners in different hospitals in the country.

Dahon Daycare Center

DTI, Agusan Norte hold business pitching tilt for young entrepreneurs

Home to numerous floating beach cottages, the municipality of Carmen, Agusan del Norte will soon produce foot mats and other innovative products made out of coconut husks through the concepts presented by the Manoligao Pag-asa Youth Club.

BUTUAN CITY—A group of aspiring youth entrepreneurs who pitched a business concept on the innovation of coconut husks is the winner of TuoNegosyo Business Plan Making Contest organized by the provincial local government here and the Department of Trade and Industry through its Youth Entrepreneurship Program. Manoligao Pag-asa Youth Club of the Municipality of Carmen bested six other competitors during the final round of the competition on Jan. 5, after presenting their concept of turning coconut husks or bunot into products such as foot mats that can be used in restaurants, resorts and floating beach cottages that are presently famous tourist attractions in the municipality. “The capital awarded to us will be used to help more out of school youth be employed through our business,” said Andrew Escalona, youth leader and adviser of Manoligao Youth Club. Escalano said that with the help of the PLGU Agusan Del Norte, the DTI and other stakeholders, they would continue to learn more in coming up with other

products made of coconut to expand their business. In his message, DTI Regional Director Edwin Banquerigo said young entrepreneurs should remember four concepts for a sustainable business endeavor— competence, confidence, critical thinking and creative innovation. “The department, through YEP, opens an opportunity for young individuals not only to engage in business but more importantly sustain ideas and enhance competence for them to take part in our envisioned economic development,” Banquerigo said. Meanwhile, DTI Provincial Director Brenda Corvera said that the activity initiated with the Agusan UP pushes for nine priority industries or commodities and is a way of telling the youth to help the DTI and the province find innovation and areas of improvement on current products. “Our aim is not only to increase awareness and to push our youth to pick a choice and go with entrepreneurship, but also for them to be aware of the economic development agenda of the province,” Corvera said.

UPS delivers hope in PH amid pandemic

A UPS staff oversees the turnover of donations to Operation Blessing Foundation.

LOVE transcends boundaries and quarantines. That was the important takeaway of 2020 for both the UPS volunteers and the families of SOS Children’s Villages, who participated in a series of virtual visits by UPS employees who served as ‘uncles’ and ‘aunties’ for a day. As a longtime patron of SOS Children’s Villages, UPS Philippines traditionally engages the non-governmental organization with visits to its villages in Manila and Cebu by volunteers. The sessions help in the social and emotional development of the abandoned, neglected and orphaned children.

With the coronavirus pandemic and its restrictions forcing many across the country to stay indoors in 2020, the usual interactions sessions had to take a novel twist by going online. Volunteers at UPS Philippines took up the challenge of taking their activities virtual and organized games and storytelling to provided much-needed interaction to the children during lockdown. Arnold, a resident at SOS Children’s Village Manila, said he enjoyed being able to continue the regular conversations with the ‘uncles’ and ‘aunties’.

“I enjoyed the most when we were able to introduce ourselves and our dreams. I learned from them that even though there is a pandemic, they are able to find and share the time to interact with us and understand our situation in the village. The experience enriched me through listening to their advice and thoughts, not just about how we will achieve our dreams and still manage to have many activities even when there is a pandemic. Thank you for spending your time just to see us and ask us how we are right now. I look forward to the next virtual visits to be just as fun,” he said.

Youth & Culture B1

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021

Bernadette Lunas, Editor

manilastandardlife@gmail.com

@manilastandardlife

@MStandardLIFE

The 'UNSPOKEN: Communication through the Arts' exhibit showcases creations by talented deaf students, including (from left) Bettina Mari Espiritu’s 'The Orange Sunset,' Abigail Panganiban’s 'Sunflower,' Joshua Estinopo’s 'Nier Latve,' Rose Branwin Mesterio’s 'Waterfall Lady,' and Terrence Lawrence Parino’s 'Beauty within Hands.'

Deaf artists paint unspoken words

SING paintbrush and canvas, gifted deaf students share a glimpse of different kinds of unspeakable beauty in the ongoing virtual exhibit entitled “UNSPOKEN: Communication through the Arts.”

From left: LINK Center for the Deaf president Carolyn Ui, SM senior vice president of marketing Millie Dizon, and ArtisteSpace Inc. managing director Anton Magpantay at the exhibit launch at North Towers, SM City North Edsa.

The group show, which opened at the North Tower of SM City North Edsa, is a joint project of LINK Center for the Deaf, ArtisteSpace Inc., and SM. It aims to help strengthen the skills and potential of these students who were able to use art as a communication tool in expressing themselves and their thoughts. Gracing the physical launch at SM City North Edsa were LINK Center for the Deaf president Carolyn Ui, ArtisteSpace Inc. managing director Anton Magpantay, exhibit curator August Santiago, and artists Boysie Villavicencio, Joe Datuin, Al Perez, and Juno Galang. The artists and organizers were welcomed at the launch by SM senior vice president of marketing Millie Dizon, and SM City North Edsa’s Rex Crucillo. The exhibit is ongoing virtually at www. kunstmatrix.com/en/artistespace-inc until Jan. 30.

Ros Emmanuel Ibarrientos with his digital artworks 'The Clouds' (top) and 'The Sunset Journey.'

Cherry Claire Rosero stands beside her artwork 'Beautiful Butterfly.'

Isaias Cruz presents his artworks 'Before and After' (top) and 'Philippines.’

John Paul Samplano poses with his painting entitled 'Save me.'

SPOTTED Selena Gomez cooks adobo using Pinoy vinegar brand POP singer and actress Selena Gomez sure knows how to cook Filipinos’ popular dish, adobo—using ingredients locals use. In the trailer of the second season of her cooking show Selena + Chef on HBO Max, Gomez, with the help of Filipino-Canadian celebrity chef Jordan Andino, whips up adobo using a vital ingredient from one familiar brand, Datu Puti vinegar. A Datu Puti bottle is also displayed prominently on her kitchen countertop, further hyping up Filipino fans by the prospect of seeing Gomez cook this quintessential Filipino dish. The second season of Selena + Chef will premiere on Screengrab of the trailer of Selena Gomez's cooking show 'Selena + HBO Max on Jan. 21 Chef' where she is seen cooking adobo using a local vinegar brand.

Taiwan offers scholarship programs for Filipinos

Young creative receives P300-k art grant FILIPINO contemporary artist Issay Rodriguez is the first winner of the “2020 Portfolio Artist Prize,” which awards P300,000 grant to chosen up-and-coming artists. Rodriguez, known for her works dealing on humanism and ecology, received her check in an intimate ceremony at the Drawing Room Gallery on Dec. 14. Joining her were the project’s creators—art enthusiast Italian Ambassador Giorgio Guglielmino and collector Hugo Bunzl—together with Cesar Villalon (director of Drawing Room) and representatives of Silverlens Gallery. The project consists of a portfolio, “entitled “2020,” containing limited edition works by 10 well-known avant-garde Filipino artists, namely, At Maculangan, Gina Osterloh, Kawayan de Guia, Kiri Dalena, Manny Montelibano, Neal Oshima, Paul Pfeiffer, Poklong Anading, Wawi Navarroza, and Yason Banal. Through the sale of the portfolio, funds were raised for prizes to be given to a limited number of rising artists chosen by a special jury. The art grant aims to financially support the awardees’ artistic endeavors.

Photographs of artworks by Gina Osterloh (left) and Neal Oshima.

Taiwan opens scholarship slots for Filipinos.

FOLLOWING the positive response from miscellaneous, etc.) Application schedule: Feb. 1 to Filipino exchange students in the past years, Taiwan opens new scholarship slots March 31 Website: https://edu.law.moe.gov.tw/ for Pinoys who want pursue their studies EngLawContent.aspx?lan=E&id=70 in the Republic of China (Taiwan). The scholarship programs available International Cooperation and for Filipinos include: Issay Rodriguez (second from left) receives the first 2020 Portfolio grant of P300,000 from Italian Ambassador Giorgio Guglielmino (third from left) and art collector Hugo Bunzl (leftmost). Joining them is Drawing Room director Cesar Villalon.

Through arts-based research and community engagements, Rodriguez is able to work on projects that allow her to think about how thoughts, emotions, or values can be explained or materialized through art and technology. She also creates drawings and cyanotypes. The young Filipino artist has had several solo and group exhibitions including the 47th International Venice Biennale and Art Fair Philippines 2019 and 2020. She has received prestigious residencies at Bellas Artes Projects, Asia in Darwin in Indonesia, and GasWorks in London. The creators of the award and the portfolio hope to continue selling the portfolios in order to deliver more awards, possibly the next two by the end of January. Email ailene@a-listconsulting.co or call 0917-536-6856 for inquiries and more information.

HEY, YOUTH!

SHARE your unpublished essays with the readers of Manila Send your essay (maximum of 800 words) with photo/s, Standard. Chosen essays will be published in the Young Life if available, to manilastandardlife@gmail.com with the subcorner that comes out every Sunday. ject: “Young Life - (title of your essay)” along with a brief This space is open for young writers, aged 13-29 years old. description of yourself.

Ministry of Education (MOE) Scholarship

The program grants a four-year scholarship for undergraduate studies, a twoyear scholarship for Master’s, and up to four years for Doctoral Degree. The MOE will shoulder up to 40,000 NTD each semester for the corresponding tuition and miscellaneous expenses. The remaining costs will be shouldered by the scholarship recipient. An additional 15,000 NTD will be given to recipients undertaking university undergraduate studies, while those pursuing their Master’s and PhD will get 20,000 NTD as monthly stipend. Application schedule: Feb. 1 to April 30 Website: https://edu.law.moe.gov.tw/ EngLawContent.aspx?lan=E&id=250

Huayu (Mandarin) Enrichment Scholarship

Applicants may choose to pursue either intensive Mandarin courses (two months or three months) or up to 12 months, subject to approval. The grant provides a monthly stipend of 25,000 NTD to cover all expenses (tuition,

Development Fund (ICDF)

The grant covers the full tuition, living expenses, economy class airfare tickets, and textbook costs. Scholars pursuing Master’s degree will receive a monthly stipend of 15,000 NTD and those pursuing Doctoral degrees will receive 17,000 NTD. Application schedule: Jan. 1 to March 15 Website: http://www.icdf.org.tw/ct.as p?xItem=12505&CtNode=30316&mp=2 Reminders: Each applicant can only apply for one scholarship program among these offerings and must process first their university admission to their preferred university in Taiwan. They also have to comply with and submit necessary scholarship requirements to Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines for review and recommendation based on the indicated deadlines of each program. An applicant is ineligible to apply if he/she is currently enrolled in another program in Taiwan. Scholarship guidelines and additional requirements are available at www. roc-taiwan.org.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021

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

Home/Design

QC, Cebu are PH’s property hotspots—Lamudi

ROPERTY seekers looked mostly in Quezon City or Cebu for properties to rent and buy last year, making the cities the property hotspots in 2020, data from property finder Lamudi showed. In its report “Hotspots unwrapped: 2020’s most popular locations”, Lamudi said Quezon City remains the most indemand location in Metro Manila for property seekers, taking 12.76 percent of overall pageviews in 2020. It was followed by Makati with 7.16 percent; Pasig, 4.56 percent; Taguig, 4.4 percent; and Manila, 4.02 percent. Lamudi said these cities hosting central business districts attract a lot of renters near their workplaces. The same trend was also seen in provinces, with Cebu City hogging most of the interest with 26.56 percent, mostly renters. This is a big difference from the next hotspot Davao, which only had 8.29 percent of overall page views for provincial cities. Top choice for setting up shop “The popularity of Cebu as a location may be credited to the fact that it’s among the top choices of businesses setting up shop in provinces. For this reason, properties become more attractive to different kinds of homebuyers,” Lamudi said. Compared to Cebu and Davao in Visayas and Mindanao, other top provincial hotspots are near the National Capital Region and attracted more buyers of permanent residences than renters. These include Bacoor, Cavite with 6.71 percent, Antipolo, Rizal with 6.66 percent, and Angeles, Pampanga with 6.19 percent.

Gradual movement outside of metropolis “There has been a gradual movement of going outside Metro Manila. Property prices are relatively more affordable and there is more land yet to be developed...people look for residences in less densely populated locations...accommodating physical distancing requirements,” Lamudi said. “Half of the top provincial cities outside the urban centers are tourist hotspots: Antipolo, Angeles, Baguio, and Imus. This may suggest that the market is on the lookout for residential locations that not only accommodate new normal living but also enable leisure amid a crisis,” it added. Filipino workers drive overseas demand For overseas demand, most hunters of local properties come from Singapore, followed by Dubai, London, Sydney, and Doha. “...Locations with a high concentration of Filipino workers show strong interest in Philippine real estate. These are cities in Asia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, and the region of the Middle East,” Lamudi said. To cap the list, property seekers also came from Los Angeles, Melbourne, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh and Toronto. Lamudi noted the most active seekers from the overseas markets are the millennials aged 25 to 34, yet the “most motivated” are the 45 to 54-year-olds looking for local properties for retirement.

ASIA PACIFIC REAL ESTATE TO GAIN PACE IN 2021. Asia Pacific real estate investment volumes will rebound by 15 to 20 percent in 2021, driven by investor appetite for assets with income stability, according to new research from JLL. The global real estate consultancy predicts increased investor interest this year in logistics and socalled alternative assets such as data centres and multi-family or residential rental properties. “The events of this year will position 2021 as the beginning of a new real estate cycle in Asia Pacific,” said Anthony Couse, CEO, Asia Pacific, JLL. In the Philippines, JLL maintains its forecast of a subdued real estate market in early 2021 with recovery beginning middle to late in the year. “….2021 may be the year where change becomes the new standard, “ Couse opined. “The new year may not shake off all the challenges of a pandemic-hit economy, but with recovery in many markets and new dynamics influencing how people work, live and play, 2021 could establish itself as a year where Asia Pacific enters a new cycle of real estate growth, innovation and investment.”

LAGUNA TECHNOPARK CELEBRATES 30. Laguna Technopark,

a development of AyalaLand Logistics Holdings Corp. (ALLHC), recently celebrated its 30th year as an industrial estate in CALABARZON. Laguna Technopark has transformed parts of the cities of Santa Rosa and Biñan from sugarcane fields to the 471-hectare growth center it is today. Anchored on the activities of its over 270 locator-companies, the industrial estate hosts over 100,000 employees directly employed by locatorcompanies in the industrial park. ALLHC also owns and operates Cavite Technopark in Naic, Laguindingan Technopark in Misamis Oriental, and Pampanga Technopark in Mabalacat City. Other developments of AyalaLand Logistics Holdings Corp. include Tutuban Center in Manila and South Park Center in Muntinlupa. For more information, visit www.ayalalandlogistics.com.

‘TULONG KAPATID’ SA AFP. The MVP Group of Companies recently donated a helicopter, rescue boats, trucks

and other logistical support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), to aid in the country’s rescue and relief operations. Manuel V. Pangilinan, chairman of the group, led the turnover of the helicopter from Pacific Global One (PG1), the aviation group of the MVP Group. The rescue boats and trucks came from Metro Pacific Investments Foundation (MPIF), PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF), One Meralco Foundation (OMF), and MetroPac Movers Inc. “The nationwide presence of our businesses enables us to mobilize resources throughout the country and provides us with the means to augment the government’s facilities to respond effectively to disasters and calamities,” Pangilinan explained. Pangilinan also signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the AFP, represented by Department of National Defense secretary Delfin Lorenzana and AFP chief of staff Gen. Gilbert I. Gapay (Shown here), to reinforce the public-private partnership for the organizational strengthening of their military treatment facilities. Pangilinan is the chairman of Makati Medical Center.

THINKING POSITIVE. SMDC recently released, via its facebook page, easy-to-do DIY activities that can transform every corner of one’s home into a play, de-stressing or hobby zone. Being confined to your home does not mean being constrained in your daily activities. With your flexi-unit, you can get members of your family to join in the fun. Whether you like mixing watercolors or sculpting with clay, you can set up the living room to start an art project with the kids. Storm the kitchen and whip up a feast with your mom, or grandmother. Or bring the spa home by transforming your bathroom into a relaxation haven. Step out onto your balcony and share your musical talent – whether it’s singing or playing a musical instrument. The times may be challenging. But with the right attitude and a little creativity, you can make the most of the situation and make it productive, fulfilling and fun.

Entertainment

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021

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

K-drama titles on Samsung Smart TV THIS year, say goodbye to the neck-craning, eye-straining struggle of watching on a mobile phone when you switch to viewing on a TV. Samsung has partnered with Viu to give free Viu Premium subscription for a year, so you can watch the latest shows ad-free on a bigger screen. Kick off the New Year with Viu’s latest K-dramas on a smart TV with these exciting titles: MR. QUEEN We love a period piece with a twist. The story revolves around Jang Bong Hwan, a chef at the President’s Blue House, and how his world turns upside down when his spirit somehow transcends into the body of a queen from the Joseon period. First on Viu, Mr. Queen is set to make your days even more interesting this year.

P-Pop boy group SB19 leads this year’s lineup of performers at the annual Wish Music Awards.

NEW NORMAL

Wish Music Awards at the Big Dome

TRUE BEAUTY This rom-com features a high school girl who rises to stardom with her expert makeup skills. No one has ever seen her bare face, and she prefers to keep it that way – until Lee Su Ho sees her without makeup. That is just the beginning of their love story. First on Viu, this highly anticipated webtoon turned drama stars Moon Ga Young, Astro’s Cha Eun Woo, and Hwang In Yeop.

HE highly anticipated 6th Wish 107.5 Music Awards (WMA) happens today at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in a special event strictly for invited guests only. The esteemed list includes the nominees, performers, hosts, record label representatives, and event organizers. This year’s “new normal” edition will not be open to the public as those who are at the on-site venue will be required to undergo COVID-19 testing and to strictly adhere to health and safety protocols. The spectacle, also the first edition in this new normal world, will recognize the top Wishclusive performances, songs in the past year, and Filipino musical acts in the country. Despite the venue being off-limits to the public this year, Wishers from different parts of the world can watch the livestream via Wish 107.5’s official YouTube channel. The premier awards show will feature performances from soul artist KZ Tandingan, hip-hop phenomenon Gloc9, P-Pop breakthrough SB19, iconic OPM band Parokya ni Edgar, rising rapper Michael Pacquiao, singersongwriters Clara Benin, Leanne & Naara, Reese Lansangan, Keiko Necesario, pop band Music Hero, vocal group The Wishfuls, and Australian singer-songwriter Guy Sebastian. Gretchen Ho and Christian Bautista will serve as hosts.

THE PENTHOUSE Achieving high ratings in South Korea, this drama is a nail-biting story of an ambitious woman who is determined to do whatever it takes to both enter high society and a luxury penthouse in the Gangnam District. First on Viu, this drama is the highly anticipated reunion of writer Kim Soon Ok and PD Joo Dong Min, who worked together on the popular SBS drama The Last Empress.

CHEAT ON ME, IF YOU CAN Starring Go Joon and Parasite’s Cho Yeo Jeong, the series features an unconventional yet intense story about love, marriage, and the guilt one feels from making bad decisions. With a novelist wife obsessed with the idea of killing people further thickening the plot, the turnout of events will leave the viewer on the edge of their seats. Performances from Australian pop star Guy Sebastian and soul singer KZ Tandingan are among the most anticipated numbers in the music event.

As in previous years, charity is a major part of the WMAs. On top of winning an iconic WMA trophy and a cash prize of P25,000, WMA winners will be given the opportunity to donate P100,000 to a charitable organization of their choice. Two awards named after the man behind Wish 107.5, Kuya Daniel Razon will once again be given to music industry luminaries. The KDR Icon of Musical Excellence Award will be handed to a notable name in the industry who has left a lasting impact on the country’s music scene, while the KDR Icon of Music and Philanthropy Award aims to give nod to an individual or a group that uses music as an instrument to spread hope and compassion to others.

Fly high like JR Barba By Paolo Manuel Fule MEET future basketball star in John Ronald Barba. He won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for the juniors division in the NCAA season 95 basketball tournament. Born on March 3, 2000 in Binan City, Laguna, this 6-foot-2 cager dreams to become either a pilot or a professional basketball player. JR, as he is fondly called by his friends, currently plays for Lyceum of the Philippines University Cavite

Campus. He joined the 2019 NBTC and helped propel his team to the next level of NCAA season 95 juniors basketball. His favorite NBA player is Kawhi Leonard of the Los Angeles Clippers while in the PBA, he idolizes LA Tenorio of Ginebra Gin Kings. “He makes it simple. He plays very smart considering his size,” said JR. The 20-year-old studentathlete makes sure he gives school and sports equal attention.

Samsung Smart TVs are made for K-drama marathons. Not only do they come preinstalled with the Viu app, the Samsung Crystal UHD (2020) boasts an upscaling feature to enhance picture-quality to the next best resolution, and customized audio modes so you won’t miss out on the details on your favorite shows and have greater kilig moments. K-drama fans, now is the best time to level up your viewing experience. Get a free one-year Viu Premium subscription with every purchase of select Samsung TVs, now with more models and sizes to choose from. The promo runs until March 31.

Audrey Mika’s ‘Excuses’ RISING American singer-songwriter Audrey Mika kicks off 2021 by releasing a new track along with an eye popping new music video. Entitled “Excuses,” the single is out now via RCA Records. It was written by Audrey, Nick Lee, Mason Sacks, Alexandra Veltri, Amisha Sarkar. The music video, on the other hand, was directed by Brent Campenelli. “Excuses” follows the release of “Safe With Me,” Audrey’s much-acclaimed collaboration with Gryffin as well as her release of “Red Gatorade” which Idolator called a “bop”. Last year Audrey also released her track “Just Friends” which was beloved with Billboard praising her “top-notch vocals,” Idolator calling it a “perfectly-crafted pop song,” Ones To Watch said it’s “a certified bop” and E! News declaring it an “irrepressibly catchy track.” Hailing from the Bay Area, Audrey Mika, 20, first rose to prominence as a YouTube sensation whose following has continued to grow with her unique covers of popular hits. She has amassed over 1.55 million You Tube subscribers who flock to check out her original material such as her two prior projects, 2018’s “Are We There Yet” and 2019’s “Level Up,’ which she recorded entirely on GarageBand. Audrey’s latest EP 5 A.M. was released in early 2020 and includes her hit “Y U Gotta B Like That,” which has amassed over 111 million streams

worldwide as well as “Fake Heartbreak,” which Idolator called “soulful.” She’s been called a “rising star” by Paper Magazine, Ladygunn declared her “a beacon of Generation Z brightness.” Flaunt Magazine said she “is more than meets the eye, she is a true visionary with a dedication to her dope desires. Her spring tour saw her first-ever New York show sold out. In the summer of 2020, Audrey released “Just Friends” which was met with Billboard praising her “top-notch vocals,” and E! News declaring it an “irrepressibly catchy track” as well as “Red Gatorade.” She was recently featured on “Safe With Me” with producer Gryffin. The track has garnered over 6 million streams worldwide.

John Ronald Barba is a 20-year-old cager who plays for Lyceum of the Philippines University Cavite Campus.

Like most of his contemporaries, he believes that while a person focuses on a specific goal, he also should have reasonable backup plans. “I always make my assignments in schools and projects as well so that I won’t be left behind even as I play for my school.” JR shared. His career-high in points is 30 against San Sebastian CollegeRecoletos in one of his NCAA games.

American singer-songwriter Audrey Mika releases “Excuses,” her first taste of music in 2021.

Poknat got stuck between two buildings.

PET TALES

BY DESIREE CARLOS

HEY make us smile seeing their cute, furry faces.

They make us feel we are not alone as they lie quietly on the floor, the sofa, and even on our computer table. They make us feel good when they come to us and rub against our legs. Cats provide us with warm, loving company as they are friends we can talk to but who never judge us. They just stay near us or lie on our lap, quietly watching us, or keeping us company no matter if we are fat or thin, rich or poor, abled or challenged. Cats provide the emotional support we need at any time of our busy lives, or during our moments of weakness and sadness. But what is more fascinating about cats is that they may also be contributing to our physical well-being, says Micaela in “The Healing Power of Cat Purrs” in dailyinfographic.com. How? Through their soothing cat purrs! A cat purr within a frequency range of 20-140 Hertz may be “therapeutically” beneficial to humans, says Micaela. Stephen Dowling in “The Complicated Truth About a Cat’s Purr” in bbc.com says the same thing: “Cats purr during both inhalation and exhalation with a consistent pattern and frequency between 25 and 150 Hertz. Various investigators have shown that sound frequencies in this range can improve bone density and promote healing.” Here are the health benefits we get from cat purrs, according to Micaela: 1. Lower stress. 2. Decrease symptoms of dyspnea or difficulty in breathing/shortness of breath. 3. Lessen chances of heart attack. 4. Strengthen bones. “Pet therapy is apparently gaining momentum

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021

Desiree Carlos, Editor

Poor Poknat did not eat for more than 24 hours. No one can get him out.

Pets

daycarlos28@yahoo.com

Firemen of Manila made a hole in the wall of one building to get Poknat out.

They can see him from the hole now.

Those healing cat purrs in many communities, and according to Animal Planet, there is scientific research that suggests pet owners live longer than those without pets,” Micaela says. She adds, “It seems that our own animals may have the ability to relieve us of our troubles, or at least make our worries seem less important. The bond between pets and their owners may never be fully understood (cats in particular have always struck me as magical and mysterious– and now they have healing powers?!) but it's nice to know having a furry confidant around can add years to our lives.” If you love seeing kittens and cats, and can love another living being for a lifetime, why not adopt a cat from shelters and animal welfare groups? You will not only have a loving pet for company who can also heal you with their purrs, you

will also help save a life by adopting. Animal welfare groups will be able to rescue more injured, abandoned and neglected cats if you adopt one or two from their shelter. Amazing cat rescue by firemen To these firemen, a cat’s life is as important as that of a human being. In a post in Facebook on January 12 at 7:05 in the morning, Kathlene Bayudan, owner of the cat, thanked the members of the special rescue unit of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) District 1, City of Manila for saving her cat Poknat. Here is her post: “Thank you Special Rescue Unit BFP, BFP-NCR District 1, City of Manila and Pacofs Paco for saving my cat that has been stuck and trapped between two buildings. Thank you for not giving up in rescuing my cat even if others already did. I Thanks to the kind, smart firemen, Poknat was reunited with his owner Kathlene.

admire your effort and hardwork. You made it possible to make a hole of 10-inches cement wall just to rescue my cat out of danger. You prove that you guys have a big heart and are willing to save any living life who needs your help Special thanks to Principal Merle Angon, Ma'am Sherryll Lim-Robrigado, Esteban Abada High School and the guards of the institution for helping and assisting me the whole day of the rescue. You showed us that your environment is not only safe for your students, but it is also an animal friendly environment. I am grateful to your community for being there with me when I needed help. Thank you so much! And thank you Cat Care Philippines, ARF Manila Community and PETA Asia for responding and giving me support when I didn't know what to do anymore. Thank you for making my heart strong. I would have given up easily if you are not there showing care and praying for my cat's safety. Poknat is now safe and regaining his lost energy of one week. I am very thankful to everyone who showed their support. May God bless you all. Thank you!” I salute owner Kathlene who never gave up on her cat and looked for help everywhere to get her cat out. You are a rare breed, Kath. Bless you with all that is good for being such a responsible, truly loving owner. I hope this will not happen to your cat, folks, but if you do need help to get your cat out of difficult, "tight" situations, please call the firemen near you. We have good men here in the Philippines -- the firemen of BFP -- who are ready and willing to help both humans and cats. Bless them abundantly. Photos by Kathlene Bayudan

· Lethargy · Incoordination · Tremors · Coma · Seizures · Excessive thirst or urination fat food (like bacon or bacon grease) in sity, lipemia (high levels of fat in the your dog’s arteries. Aside from bacon, here are the hu3. Regularly giving bacon to dogs can large quantities open the door to a pleth- blood), and trauma to the pancreas are man food you should not give to your the other factors linked to pan- dog because of its high salt content: lead to serious health issues such creatitis. as inflammation of the pancreas, pretzels, chips, seasoned nuts, luncheon also known as pancreatitis. meat, other food with salt. Here are the symptoms of this 4. Bacon has too much salt, illness: and giving it to your dog can Bloat · Loss of appetite lead to salt poisoning. Salty food can lead to a much more · Vomiting 5. Too much salt can also lead dangerous and life-threatening condi· Abdominal pain to a condition called bloat which tion called bloat, Arneberg said. · Bloat can kill your dog. “Due to the high salt content in foods · Fever like bacon and ham, dogs may become Pancreatitis · Lethargy dehydrated, prompting them to drink an The pancreas releases diges· Depression excessive amount of water in an effort tive enzymes in the stomach so · Increased heart rate to satiate their incredible thirst. Their that your dog can absorb and · Diarrhea stomachs are filled with too much fluid digest food on a daily basis, ex· Lowered potassium levels and gas, which puts pressure on organs, plained Arneberg. “Fortunately, pancreatitis is causing the stomach to twist. Bloat “Pancreatitis is a condition treatable with treatments such as can be fatal and typically calls for an that disrupts your dog’s ability potassium supplements and flu- emergency trip to the vet for surgery,” to digest food and absorb nutriid therapy. Even better, pancrea- Arneberg said. ents. If the pancreas isn’t able to titis is preventable. Play it safe “Physical and behavioral indicators do its job, then uncomfortable and keep dogs away from fatty of bloat include restlessness, swol(and dangerous) symptoms will food like bacon. It’s not worth len stomach, pale gums, anxiousness, arise,” Arneberg said. the potential health problems,” drool, excessive pacing, and dry vomitArneberg added that veterisaid Arneberg. ing,” she added. nary pharmacists at Pet Health “If you suspect your dog might To prevent bloat, feed your dog’s Pharmacy have noted smaller have an inflamed pancreas, talk meals in a slow feeder or puzzle toy to dog breeds are more prone to to your vet as soon as possible,” avoid causing bloat. Give small servCheck the dog food and treats you buy for your pets. pancreatitis. These breeds are added Arneberg. Choose food that have no salt or very low alt content to ings of water if your dog is a gulper. prevent illnesses. Have your dog undergo a blood test miniature schnauzers, miniature This should be done specially by ownyearly to check the condition of he kidneys and liver. If poodles, and cocker spaniels. Salt poisoning ers whose dog gobbles down his meals, But larger breeds and older dogs something is up, you can immediately address the concern Here are the symptoms of salt thus swallowing a great deal of air in the with the help of your vet. can also be affected, they said. or sodium ion poisoning from process, Arneberg stressed. The Health Risks of Bacon the Pet Poison Hotline: Poor nutrition is the most 1. Fat and grease in bacon, specially If your dog exhibits symptoms of salt · Vomiting if given in large amounts, can lead to common cause of pancreatitis, said ora of health issues associated with the poisoning, contact your vet or the Ani· Diarrhea Arneberg. disease,” Arneberg said. upset stomach. mal Poison Control Center. Bring your · Decreased appetite “Dog owners who give their dog highCiting PetMD, Arneberg said obe2. Grease from bacon can also clog dog immediately to the vet. DC

OWNERS love their dogs so much, they want to give them the best of everything, specially food they consider as so delicious, they just have to share it with their pets. But hold it, owners! There are food that are actually bad for your dogs and can make them very sick. Some these “bad” food are bacon, ham and fatty meat. “High fat foods like bacon, ham, or meat trimmings can cause pancreatitis in dogs. And since these meats are often high in salt content, too, they can cause upset stomachs and, in extreme cases, can cause dogs to drink too much water, leading to bloat, which can be fatal. Save the fatty meats for yourself and stick to leaner choices for your dog,” said Mike Clark in “10 Foods That Are Bad For Dogs” in dogtime.com. Bacon is a very salty food, aside from being full of bad fat for dogs. Salt is definitely bad for dogs as it is for humans. “Salt can cause a condition called sodium ion poisoning, not to mention excessive thirst or urination. Symptoms of eating too much salt might include vomiting, diarrhea, high body temperature, and seizures, in addition to bloat, as is the case with bacon. Salt can be fatal, so keep it to a minimum in the foods you share with your pup,” Clark said. Camille Arneberg in “Can Dogs Eat Bacon? It’s More Dangerous Than You Think” in pethonesty.com shared the health risks of bacon to enlighten owners.

Bacon and ham are bad for dogs