Manila Standard - 2021 September 18 - Saturday

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Mandatory vaccination eyed Galvez points out need to ensure adequate supply, enact enabling law

Figures lie: Most hospitals at full capacity, OHCC reveals

By Macon Ramos-Araneta, Willie Casas and Rio N. Araja

By Joyce Pangco Pañares, Willie Casas, Joel Zurbano and Alena Mae Flores

T VOL. XXXV • NO. 215 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

CONTRARY to government statistics, hospitals in Metro Manila and nearby provinces are already operating at full capacity and are being overwhelmed

by COVID-19 patients, the medical officer of One Hospital Command Center (OHCC) said Friday.

“We still receive 400 to 500 calls per day, and it is really hard to find a hospital for patients in Region 4A, Region 3 and the National Capital Region (NCR) where most our our calls are coming from,” said Dr. Marylaine Padlan of OHCC, which refers patients to hospitals or health facilities.

Padlan said health workers have told her that the health care utilization data presented by the government showing that utilization rate is still below 100 percent does not reflect the situation on the ground because it does not include the situation in hospital emergency rooms.

The health care utilization data do not

HE government is eyeing mandatory vaccination for all Filipinos, but the decision still depends on the vaccine supply and the passage of a law that would serve as its legal basis.

National Task Force Against COVID-19 chief implementer and vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said the Next page

Next page

2,324,475 20,336

188,108

36,328

310

2,100,039 10,028

NO VAX, NO PASS.

Members of the Hijos del Nazareno check the vaccination cards of devotees entering the premises of the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila on Friday as they only allow fully vaccinated individuals inside the church.

Religious gatherings are allowed at 30% capacity in outdoor venues, but 10% indoor and only as many as 200 people are allowed to enter.

Norman Cruz/ Danny Pata

(As of 4 PM, SEPTEMBER 17)

ICC needs evidence on drug war, lawyer says Color-coded travel ban: Four

By Macon Ramos-Araneta A LAWYER for an organization of slain victims in the Duterte administration's war on drugs has said the Netherlandsbased International Criminal Court, which authorized a thorough probe of the

anti-drugs drive, must have evidence. :What the ICC needs is evidence. Plain and simple. If they can get the evidence, in any other way aside from going to the Philippines, aside from physically presenting themselves before the Office of the President or any other office, then they

can proceed,” said Kristina Conti, assisting counsel of Rise Up, an organization of the relatives of victims killed in the Duterte administration’s war on drugs.

ICC judges authorized Wednesday a fully fledged investigation into Duterte's Next page

more nations added to red list THE government has released an updated roster of “red, yellow, and green” states and territories, Malacañang said on Friday.

Four new states—Grenada, Papua New Guinea, Serbia and Slovenia -- have been included in the red list, presidential spokesman Harry Roque said.

“This new classification shall take effect on Sept. 19, 2021 until Sept. 30, 2021,” Roque, who also serves as a spokesman for the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF), said.

Travel restrictions have been imposed on travelers from “high risk” countries that are under the red list.

Inbound passengers, regardless of their vaccination status, coming from or who have been to "red" nations are barred from entering the Philippines.

Returning Filipinos who will fly back to the country through government-initiated or non-government repatriation programs, as well as through special commercial flights allowed under existing Next page

IBP on lawyer's slay: Disturbing

By Rey E. Requejo THE Integrated Bar of the Philippines on Friday again condemned what it described as “disturbing and increasing frequency of lawyer killings” in the country.

IBP President Burt Estrada stressed that lawyers were mandated to strive for justice, and they must be able to do so

without fear of reprisal or violence.

“Our country cannot attain true independence and freedom when conformity is extracted by fear and criticisms silenced by force,” Estrada said in a statement.

The country’s mandatory lawyers’ group made the statement following the killing of lawyer Juan Macabadbad, vice Next page

GOTCHA! About 100 individuals were herded by Quezon City police operatives inside the QC Hall compound Friday morning for

not wearing face masks/shields in violation of health and safety protocol against COVID-19. Among those arrested were a member of the National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine National police and three city government employees who were issued an Official Violation Receipt or OVR. Police reminded the citizens to remain compliant with existing health protocols to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Manny Palmero

Luxury cars for Pharmally execs COMELEC: No

By Macon Ramos-Araneta OFFICIALS of the small pharmaceutical company that bagged P8.5 billion in government contracts for COVID-19 pandemic supplies rewarded themselves by buying luxury cars, Senator Richard Gordon said Friday.

Mohit Dargani, corporate secretary of Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp., bought a Porsche 911 Turbo S worth P8.5 million, Gordon said, while the company’s president, Twinkle Dargani, purchased a

Lamborghini Urus worth P13 million.

The cars, Gordon said, were bought in December 2020 after Pharmally bagged the contract in April of the same year.

Gordon also divulged that Linconn Ong, director of Pharmally, acquired a Lexus RCF worth P5.9 million, a Porsche Cayenne VR6 worth P6.35 million to P8.85 million, and a Porsche Carrera 4S worth P13.5 million.

While the Pharmally officials attended Friday’s hearing, they did not address Next page Gordon’s revelations.

to voting via text

By Willie Casas and Rio N. Araja THE Department of Health strongly suggested Friday to the Commission on Elections to allow COVID-positive patients to vote by just texting the poll body who their chosen candidates would be for the 2022 May elections.

But the Comelec immediately ruled Next page

GIGANTIC.

Food attendant garbed in traditional Chinese dress holds mooncakes that are for sale in a mall in Binondo, Manila on Friday, in celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival or Mooncake Festival. Norman Cruz

A2

News

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

COVID-cure trader nabbed NBI Officer-in-Charge-Director Distor said the operation stemmed Eric Distor identified the suspect as from a meeting called by presidential Cherry Jalaron. adviser Michael Lloyd Dino for the

price regulation of COVID-19 medicines.

NBI Central Visayas was tasked to pursue the lead on a certain Karen Go, who was allegedly engaged in the illegal selling of Tocilizumab.

After surveillance and verification, NBI agents confirmed the illegal activity and were able to establish communication with Go. On Sept. 13, 2an agent acted as poseur-buyer and ordered online one vial of Tocilizumab for P97,000, more

than the maximum retail price set by the government at P20,581.45.

The undercover agent and Go agreed to meet at Barangay Guadalupe in Cebu City to deliver the medicine.

After the transaction was completed, operatives apprehended the courier of the drug, identified as Cherry Jalaron.

According to the arrested suspect, she was Go's secretary and was instructed to deliver the medicine.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire cited Section 12 which states that the vaccine cards “shall not be considered as an additional mandatory requirement for educational, employment, and other similar government transaction purposes.”

“While vaccination is not mandatory, we call on all eligible population to register to their respective local government units and avail COVID-19 vaccines for free for additional protection,” Vergeire said.

The Health official issued the statement after Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte issued an executive order on Wednesday requiring city government workers and volunteers to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

Duterte’s order said plantilla personnel who refuse to be vaccinated shall be held administratively liable for insubordination.

Under the local EO, a penalty of one month and one day to six months suspension will be implemented for the first offense. For the second offense, the personnel will be dismissed from the service.

As of yesterday, the government has fully vaccinated at least 17 million people.

Authorities have administered 40 million vaccine shots, of which over 22 million were first jabs, said Palace spokesman Harry Roque.

The government aims to vaccinate up to 70 million people before the end of the year to achieve herd immunity.

President Rodrigo Duterte said if the vaccine supply becomes stable, vaccinating the general adult population may begin next month.

The country expects to take delivery of 61 million vaccine doses between this month and October.

Meanwhile, Galvez said at least

190,000 doses of Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine are scheduled to arrive this weekend.

“This shipment of Sputnik V vaccines shall be used for the second dose. After this, we will be receiving the single-shot Sputnik V Light as we move forward with our vaccine rollout,” he said.

“As per our vaccine experts from the Department of Health, the gap between first and second doses of Sputnik V can be as long as six months, so no need to worry because the vaccines are arriving soon,” he added.

Some 661,200 doses of Astrazeneca COVID-29 vaccine arrived yesterday at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

As of Sept. 15, the country has received a total of 57,547,610 vaccine doses from various manufacturers, of which over 36 million doses were procured by the national government.

right now, with this pilot implementation, we will not reach this kind of projection," she said in a press briefing.

Metro Manila, with nearly 13.5 million population, is under Alert Level 4 in a 5-tier COVID-19 system, which the government hopes will spur economic activity.

Vergeire said the new alert level system would be assessed weekly.

As Metro Manila shifted to the new scheme, which includes localized lockdowns, restaurants, salons and other small businesses have reopened after temporary closure for weeks due to the Delta variant.

Outdoor dining is allowed at 30 percent capacity, while indoor dining is limited to small groups of fully vaccinated individuals. Outdoor religious gatherings and personal care services are allowed also at up to 30 percent of venue capacity.

The Philippines logged 20,336 new COVID-19 cases on Friday, bringing the total number of infections to 2,324,475.

There were 310 new fatalities, bringing the COVID-19 death toll to 36,328.

The DOH also reported 10,028 new recoveries, bringing the total recoveries to 2,100,039.

There were 188,108 active cases, the highest since April 18, of which 87.6 percent were mild, 8.1 percent were asymptomatic, 0.6 percent were critical, 1.3 percent were severe, and 2.49 percent were moderate.

The positivity rate is at 26.6 percent based on the test results of 75,766 people on Wednesday, according to the DOH’s latest bulletin, equivalent to one positive result out of every four tests.

Nationwide, 77 percent of the ICU beds, 68 percent of the isolation beds, 73 percent of the ward beds, and 57 percent of the ventilators, were in use.

In Metro Manila, 79 percent of the ICU beds, 64 percent of the isolation beds, 74 percent of the ward beds, and 62 percent of the ventilators, were in use.

Meanwhile, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte ordered the City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (CESU) to monitor closed-settings and long-term facilities as COVID-19 outbreaks continued to be reported.

Included for close monitoring are convents, orphanages, nursing homes for the aged, rehabilitation centers, shelters for street children, halfway homes for victims of violence and abuse, hospices and even correctional facilities.

“We cannot just be reactive every time there is an outbreak. We see a trend of reported outbreaks in high-risk facilities.

Let’s act on this first. We will test them and check if they have strict health protocols in place,” Belmonte said.

She also directed CESU chief Dr. Rolando Cruz to determine the vaccination status of individuals staying or working

in such facilities and convince those who have not yet been vaccinated to take the jab.

“We need to know if those within the facilities have already been vaccinated or not. We will be the ones to reach out to them so we could vaccinate them if they are afraid to go outside,” she said.

Earlier, 50 staff and 64 nuns of the Religious of the Virgin Mary Convent in Cubao tested positive for COVID-19.

Thirteen nuns and nine staff members also tested positive at the Convent of Holy Spirit in Barangay Immaculate Conception.

Of the 22 Covid-19 patients, at least 14 were fully vaccinated, while the rest were unvaccinated.

Cruz said the convent has a population of 90 individuals, of which 46 were swabbed on Sept. 10, while the rest then refused to be tested.

“Per our agreement with them, they will take care of the testing of the remaining 44 individuals and they will send us the results as soon as they come out,” she said.

Swab results of the 46 showed that 25 tested negative, while 21 were positive.

One index case bringing to a total of 22 cases was a physical therapist, who was reportedly exposed to a nun who succumbed to the virus in early September.

PS-DBM employee was aware that Pharmally delivered 2 million surgical masks.

Hontiveros said the correct process for an emergency procurement would be issuance of a request for proposals, opening of proposals, evaluation, negotiation (e.g. terms of delivery), issuance of resolution recommending the award, issuance of the notice of award, and then the purchase order.

“In the case of Pharmally, the 500,000 mask delivery came first before the notice of award and the purchase order. And then, the million pieces of surgical masks--no notice of award, no purchase order, and no request for quotation,” Hontiveros said.

Meanwhile, Gordon on Friday hit back at President Rodrigo Duterte, who has been trying to stop the Senate hearing on Pharmally.

Duterte, Gordon said, was no longer the President of the Philippines, but a lawyer for his allies tagged in the alleged overpriced procurement of medical supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

While the President took his oath to protect the entire Philippines and defend his countrymen, Gordon said Duterte is now lawyering for his “close friends” being investigated by the Senate Blue Ribbon committee.

“Why are you defending Lao? While he was with you during the campaign, while you owe him a debt of gratitude, this should not be replaced by graft or give him a license to steal,” Gordon said, referring to former DBM undersecretary Christopher Lloyd Lao, who was Duterte's volunteer election lawyer when he ran for president in 2016. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

ICC... anti-narcotics campaign, which rights groups estimate has killed tens of thousands of people, saying it resembled an illegitimate and systematic attack on civilians.

Duterte and his police chiefs have said the killings were in self-defense, while his government insisted the ICC had no right to meddle in the country's affairs.

Government data shows 6,100 suspected drug dealers have been killed by security forces in anti-drug operations since Duterte took office in mid2016.

Rights groups say many thousands more were assassinated in slum communities, mostly users killed by mystery gunmen who were never caught, and accuse police of involvement.

PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar said the police force was open to any investigation but would have to follow the chain of command.

He said they were waiting for guidance from their supervisors or commanders.

Presidential legal counsel Salvador Panelo said Thursday ICC investigators would not be permitted to enter the country.

The ICC said there was a "reasonable basis" to believe that the crime against humanity of murder had been committed in the crackdown, adding the investigation would also cover alleged extra-judicial killings in the southern Davao region between 2011 and 2016, when incumbent

President Rodrigo Duterte was mayor.

But Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the Philippines would not not cooperate with the ICC’s investigation.

Conti, a member of the National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers, said there were ways that lawyers' groups could assist in the ICC investigation.

"First, we will need to cooperate with the Office of the Prosecutor and volunteer ourselves to be part of this prosecution team. Coordinate with them, and as we’ve all seen during this time of the pandemic, there are alternative ways to physical meetings," she said in an ANC interview.

“So we can meet with them virtually, and the mail is open already, the post offices are open, and we can send them the information that we can (provide),” she said.

Meanwhile, a civil society group urged the Philippine National Police to cooperate in the formal investigation launched by the ICC into possible crimes against humanity committed in President Duterte's war on drugs.

Speaking in an interview over Teleradyo, Dr. Aurora Parong, co-chair of the Philippine Coalition for the International Criminal Court, said they should call the policemen who had the conscience and values of truth and justice to cooperate with ICC. “Hopefully you will do what's right, not only for you, but for the victims of human right violations and our country,” she said, Parong said the PCICC saw that justice for the victims and their families could only be attained in the ICC.

Reports showed, without mentioning the years, that 58 lawyers have been killed, 34 judges slain with only two cases had resulted in convictions, and several prosecutors waylaid.

With Macabadbad’s killing, the IBP demanded “a nationwide effort to protect our lawyers and judges.”

The IBP vowed to work with the Supreme Court, the Department of Justice, the National Bureau of Investigation, and the Philippine National Police to address and arrest these ris-

ing attacks against its members.

The group also asked the police authorities and investigative agencies to formulate and implement specific measures to improve the security of lawyers, judges, and prosecutors and to expeditiously resolve its investigators on these killings so that the perpetrators are swiftly and truly held accountable.

The IBP said it would also assist in, and monitor the investigation and prosecution of Macabadbad’s case so that the perpetrators can be identified and pros-

ecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

On Sept. 16, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said the inter-agency committee on extra-judicial killings (EJKs) is awaiting a report from the police on the killing of Macabadbad.

"As part of standard procedure, the Department of Justice will await the report of local police investigators and evaluate whether the killing falls under the jurisdiction of the inter-agency committee on EJKs,” Guevarra said.

By Willie Casas

T

HE National Bureau of Investigation announced Friday the arrest of an individual in Cebu City for selling overpriced Tocilizumab, a medicine found to be effective in reducing mortality rate of severe COVID-19.

Mandatory...

From A1

plan to make vaccination mandatory is still being studied.

“We see that based on the data, 85 percent of Filipinos who test positive for COVID are unvaccinated, and majority if not all of the patients who are critical or are intubated are also unvaccinated,” Galvez said.

NTF spokesman Restituto Padilla said a major factor is the vaccine supply.

“We have not reached a decision yet.

We will also likely need a legal basis for this,” Padilla said.

For its part, the Department of Health said under Republic Act No. 11525 or the COVID-19 Vaccination Act, inoculation is not required for workers and for those seeking employment.

Figures...

From A1

show the availability of ER beds, she said.

Padlian said the health care utilization rate in Regions 1 and 2, as well as the Cordillera Administrative Region and Caraga Administrative Region, are also at high risk.

“We refer the patient to the hospital nearest to them, but most of those who call us, we refer them to the NCR hospitals because the tertiary hospitals needed by severe and critical patients are also in NCR,” Padlan said.

The Department of Health (DOH) said new COVID-19 cases in the NCR could range from 16,0000 to 43,000 a day by the end of September.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire offered this estimate after the University of the Philippines COVID-19 Pandemic Response Team said cases could rise to 30,000 to 40,000 a day by the end of September or early October, as the positivity rate remains high, at nearly 30 percent, which means that one in every three tests could turn out to be positive.

Vergeire, however, held up the hope that the granular lockdowns being tested in Metro Manila could bring the numbers down.

"Hopefully with what we are doing

Luxury...

From A1

The Senate Blue Ribbon committee already requested the Anti-Money Laundering Council to inspect the bank records of Pharmally as lawmakers questioned how the firm bagged government contracts worth billions of pesos, with only a paid up capital of P650,000.

At Friday’s meeting, Senator Risa Hontiveros asked Pharmally’s incorporator Krizle Mago who ordered the delivery of 2 million face masks to the Procurement Service of the Department of Budget and Management (PS-DBM) even before the company received a request for quotation or a notice of award.

Mago told the 7th hearing of the Senate Blue Ribbon committee chaired by Gordon that her “boss” ordered her to deliver the goods, which surprised even the PS-DBM. Pressed to reveal who she was referring to, Mago pointed to Dargani and Ong. Hontiveros said the only logical conclusion she could draw was that someone had underhandedly guaranteed the contract for them, even before any documentation was done.

“They sent 2 million face masks even before they were given the price. The price of masks in the first quarter of 2020 was very volatile," she said.

In the most recent hearing on the mismanaged COVID-19 funds, the senator showed a message exchange between Mago and a former employee of the PS-DBM, in which Mago asked if the

IBP...

From A1

chairman of the Union of Peoples’ Lawyers in Mindanao (UPLM), who was killed in front of his residence in Surallah, South Cotabato last Wednesday, Sept. 15.

“The IBP grieves and is appalled by the blatant assassinations of lawyers, judges, and prosecutors with impunity,” Estrada said.

From A1

Faeldon loses bid to recall graft court’s arrest order THE Sandiganbayan 5th Division has affirmed the graft cases against former Customs chief Nicanor Faeldon over the alleged smuggling of some P34 million worth of Vietnam rice into the country in 2017.

The anti-graft court denied Faeldon’s motion to recall or set aside the hold departure order and arrest warrant against him.

The Office of the Ombudsman field the cases against Faeldon as well as District Collector Tomas Alcid in October last year.

Two sets of rice shipment were reportedly allowed to be released from the Port of Cagayan De Oro in 2017 without the required import permit.

Faeldon was accused of conspiring with the importer, Cebu Lite Trading, Inc., whose officials -- Lucio Roger Lim Jr., Ambrosio Ursal and Rowena Lim – were also included in the graft cases.

Color-coded..

From A1

IATF-EID resolutions are not covered by the travel restrictions.

On the other hand, states and jurisdictions included in the green list are American Samoa, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Cayman Islands, Chad, China, Comoros, Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Falkland Islands (Malvinas) and Gabon.

Hong Kong (Special Administrative Region of China), Hungary, Madagascar, Mali, Federated States of Micronesia, Montserrat, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Niger, Northern Mariana Islands, Palau, Poland, Saba (Special Municipality of the Kingdom of Netherlands), Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Sierra Leone, and Sint Eustatius have also been listed under green list.

Other countries that have been put under green list are Taiwan, Algeria, Bhutan, Cook Islands, Eritrea, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Nicaragua, Niue, North Korea, Saint Helena, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Tokelau, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, and Yemen.

The green states and jurisdictions have been classified as “low-risk countries or jurisdictions based on disease incidence rate.”

The government, through IATF-EID Resolution 128-A issued on July 22, has issued protocols for fully-vaccinated individuals who can avail of “green lanes.”

All other countries, territories, or jurisdictions that have not been mentioned are in the yellow list, Roque said.

The yellow list is composed of countries classified as moderate risk.

Inbound international travelers, regardless of their vaccination status, coming from or with travel history from yellow nations within the past 14 days before their arrival in the Philippines are mandated to observe the strict entry, testing, and quarantine protocols.

Also on Friday, the Department of Tourism said some residents of Metro Manila will be allowed to go on leisure travel to general community quarantine (GCQ) or modified GCQ areas.

“NCR residents under Alert Level 4 could travel to areas that are under MGCQ or GCQ, or are accepting visitors,” Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat told Dobol B sa News TV in Filipino.

But some tourist destinations such as Baguio will allow only fully-vaccinated visitors, she said.

COMELEC:...

From A1

out the possibility of having alternative means of casting a vote, like through online or text messaging, for COVID-19 positive patients, its spokesperson James Jimenez said.

“As to the possibility of alternative means of voting, unfortunately these are not authorized by law and will not be employed on 9 May 2022,” Jimenez told reporters in a Viber message.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire told an online news briefing the Comelec should allow alternative voting modes for COVID-positive voters as letting them go out of their quarantine areas might lead to further transmission of cases.

“We all know that when a patient goes out of his/her room or area that person can infect other people,” Vergeire said, hoping the Comelec would have an alternative mode like casting ballots virtually through SMS or mobile texting.

Comelec Chairperson Sheriff Abas said last week that they would set up isolation areas where COVID-19 patients can cast their ballots.

However, Abas said it would be a different case for the poll servers, as they will not be allowed to serve in the elections should they test positive for COVID-19.

Abas said the Comelec had been coordinating with the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases to finalize the guidelines for the upcoming polls.

News

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021

TOKHANG.

Customs seizes 800 spiders sent via ‘snail mail’

Fr. Flavie Villanueva blesses the three corpses exhumed from the apartmenttyped tombs inside Manila North Cemetery on Friday, September 17, 2021. The corpses were alleged victims of extrajudicial killings perpetrated by the police under the drug war’s Operation Tokhang in many parts of the country.

Danny Pata

By Joel E. Zurbano

EU keen on PH, Asean trade ties

By Rey E. Requejo

T

HE European Union has vowed to enhance its strategic engagement with the Indo-Pacific region that includes its ties with the Philippines and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations as a whole, in an efforts to contribute to the region’s stability, security, prosperity, and sustainable development.

In a statement, the EU stressed that such action would be in line with the principles of democracy, rule of law, human rights and international law.

The EU countries adopted a joint communication on the strategy for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region after United States President Joe Biden announced a new trilateral security

A3

partnership with Australia and the United Kingdom focusing on the region and the proposed sharing of nuclear technology to Australia.

Among the objectives of the new EU strategy in the Indo-Pacific region is to assess the possible resumption of trade negotiations with the Philippines, Malaysia, and Thailand; completing its

trade negotiations with Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand; start investment negotiations with India, and the eventual region-to-region trade agreement with ASEAN. EU President Ursula von der Leyen stressed that the expanding economic, demographic, and political weight of the Indo-Pacific region that goes from the east coast of Africa to the Pacific island states.

“With today’s proposals, and guided by our values, we are offering a strengthened partnership to advance trade, investment, and connectivity, while addressing common global challenges and reinforcing the rules-based international order,” the EU official said.

Another European stalwart, EU High Representative and Vice-President Josep Borrel, sees the linkage between futures of the two major regions, saying that the world’s center of gravity is moving toward the Indo Pacific, both in geo-economic and geo-political terms.

“The EU is already the top investor, the leading development cooperation partner and one of the biggest trading partners in the Indo-Pacific region. Our engagement aims at maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific for all, while building strong and lasting partnerships to cooperate on matters from the green transition, ocean governance or the digital agenda to security and defense,” Borrel said.

CUSTOMS agents at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport seized three shipments of more than 800 spiders smuggled from Poland.

The packages -- containing 17 spiders and 809 spider lings -- were misdeclared as shipment of figurines and medicines and consigned to three individuals residing in the cities of Paranaque and Pasay, and in Batangas.

Authorities did not identify the consignees, who they said, will be the subjects of their investigation.

Port of NAIA district collector Carmelita Talusan said her men in coordination with the Environmental Protection Compliance Division intercepted the shipments at the Central Mail Exchange Center (CMEC) in Pasay City last Tuesday.

Customs examiners placed the packages under physical examination and found the spiders concealed in small plastic vials wrapped in foil and cotton.

Talusan said the wildlife species were turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for proper disposition.

Two months ago, Customs NAIA agents intercepted a shipment of spiders and other wildlife species valued at half a million pesos, also at CMEC. The package -- containing 25 tarantulas, 12 spider lings, five centipedes, and two black spiders -- came from Thailand and was consigned to a certain Aldwin Capucae, a resident of Pasay City.

Based on documents, the shipment was described and misdeclared as “Plastic Teaching Materials for University”, a clear case of technical smuggling.

In December, the Bureau of Customs and the DENR won a legal case against a trader responsible for the smuggling of 757 pieces of valuable spider at the airport.

Cardinal Advincula graces Manila scraps ban on liquor as it shifts to looser lockdown book launching in Tondo OUR Lady of Peace and Good Voyage Parish will launch the coffee table book “A Golden Voyage in Tondo” today, September 18, to coincide with the pastoral visit to the OLGV parish of His Eminence Jose Cardinal Advincula, newly appointed Archbishop of Manila.

The book is authored by Melandrew T. Velasco and published by his outfit, Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc. Its publication was commissioned by Engr. Rey D. San Gabriel and the San Gabriel family as a tribute to Clemente S. San Gabriel Sr. and Amada D. San Gabriel who were among the first lay leaders of the OLPGV parish.

The San Gabriel couple worked unceasingly to help the young parish not only in its ministries but also in finding the lot where the parish church now stands.

It was on 16 March 1971, exactly 450 years since Ferdinand Magellan and his expedition set foot on Philippine soil, that a new parish was established in Tondo, Manila’s most densely populated district.

The new parish was carved out of the Sto. Nino Tondo Parish and called Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage (OLPGV) Parish , after its patroness, Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage.

It is a fitting name as the parish encompasses 24 barangays including the North Harbor where sea vessels dock to load and unload cargoes and passengers bound for other destinations.

Tondo also had a reputation in earlier years as a place where peaceful and tranquil times were few and far between and troublemakers abound.

The parish is unique among other parishes in the country.

Its establishment was inspired by the wish of Pope Paul VI, the first Pontiff to visit the Philippines, that a new parish be created to take care of the residents who swarmed the streets of Tondo just to get a glimpse of the Pope in 1970. Another Pontiff, Pope John Paul II, visited the parish church while construction was ongoing and blessed its site during his first visit to the country in 1981. OLPGV parish holds the distinction of being the only parish in the country touched and blessed by two popes who are now venerated as Saints.

LWUA: 48 years of providing reliable, safe water to Pinoys

THE Local Water Utilities Administration ramps up its operations as it marks almost half a century of providing potable water to Filipinos in the countryside.

Newly-designated Administrator Guiling “Gene” A. Mamondiong said the agency aims to almost double the coverage of households by next year.

“We are looking at an estimated 96% increase in the number of families with access to safe water,”he noted. He added that the same target has been eyed for access to basic sanitation -also increasing the number of households to almost twice.

“Our mantra here is safe water must be afforded to every Filipino,” Mamondiong said.

Currently, some 5 million families across the country -- or 25 million individuals -- are enjoying affordable and clean water provided by LWUA through the more than 500 water districts in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

Last year alone, an additional 1.4 million residents were added to the population served after the completion of 57 water supply projects LWUA, the agency mandated to provide water outside of Metro Manila, will mark its 48th year on September 18, 2021.

THE city government of Manila lifted its ban on the sale and distribution of alcoholic products such as wine, beer and the like effective yesterday.

Mayor Isko Moreno said that Executive Order No. 29, Series of 2021, dated September 15, 2021 lifted the ban on the sale of intoxicating drinks.

The EO came after Metro Manila shifted to Alert Level 4 of the General Community Quarantine (GCQ), effective from Septem-

ber 16 to September 30, 2021 “After consultation, the city finds it is not imperative to impose a liquor ban for now,” said Domagoso who met all concerned department heads and establishment owners.

Since the sale of intoxicating drinks were already allowed in Manila, Domagoso directed barangay authorities and the police to strictly implement the prohibition on drinking in public places, which stays despite the

lifting of the liquor ban.

He also instructed barangay bureau director Romy Bagay to ensure that the basic health protocols are followed by the city’s 896 barangays.

Under the order, concerned establishments are mandated to follow local regulations and basic protocols like wearing of face masks and observing social distancing during their business operations. They are also not allowed to sell to minors. Macon Ramos-Araneta

Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII)

Tacloban Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (TFCCCI)

mourns the passing of

GO TIC CHING (Jack Uy)

February 28, 1946 – September 14, 2021 President, Tacloban Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (TFCCCI) Through his competent leadership, we were able to sustain our commitment as partner in nation-building. He always carried on our vision of economic prosperity through various activities and programs.

As a person who values the importance of education, he was passionate with FFCCCII’s advocacy program—the “Barrio Schools Program”—to augment the country’s classroom shortage in public schools. He always encouraged the recipient-students to study hard and make their parents proud in his speeches during the turn-over of the school buildings. The FFCCCII-TFCCCI has already constructed and turned-over 349 barrio school buildings and more than 500 for the whole Region VIII. To heed the government’s call for faster public health and economic recovery, the TFCCCI participated in the vaccination rollout program of the government and almost 800 economic frontliners in Eastern Visayas were vaccinated against the Covid-19 virus.

His remains lie in state at St. Peter Memorial Chapel, Real St., Tacloban City and interment will be on Saturday, September 18, 2021 at the Tacloban Chinese Cemetery after the 7:00AM mass at the Sacred Heart Parish, T. Claudio St., Tacloban City.

He is survived by his wife Nelia; children—Nancy with husband Joel; Jennelyn with husband Grebert Karl; Nicholas Jason “Colai” with wife Cocaine; and Joanne with husband Frederick Anthony; and grandchildren—Brad Wayne, Sean Ethan Andrei, Gabrielle Karlene, Phoebe Dominique, Jake Devin and Dash Jacob.

Thank you for your Service, Mr. President GO TIC CHING!

News

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021

‘Non-medical staff should get SRA too’ FORMER Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. appealed to the national government and lawmakers to prioritize the inclusion of non-medical frontline staff serving in hospitals and quarantine facilities among those eligible to receive Special Risk Allowance (SRA), Hazard Pay, and other benefits.

“When it comes to benefits like SRA and Hazard Pay, it should include all.

This has always been my advocacy because everyone working in hospitals and quarantine facilities are exposed to the same risks,” Marcos said.

He lamented the delays in releasing the benefits to non-medical and outsourced staff considered essential frontline workers.

“Guards, janitors, non-medical staff in laboratories and other support staff are considered frontline workers but how come they are also experiencing delays in their benefits?” Marcos added.

The former senator was also saddened that healthcare workers had to resort to extreme measures just for their plight to be noticed by authorities.

“Do our frontliners need to make a ruckus just to be noticed by the government? It shouldn’t be like this.

Agencies such as DoH should ensure that their welfare is being looked after,” Marcos said.

“The government should prioritize the bills that will expand the coverage of SRAs, hazard pays, and other benefits for healthcare workers. They are deemed heroes, that’s why we should show our appreciation for their sacrifices by giving them the benefits they rightfully deserve,” he said.

Two separate bills from the Senate and the House of Representatives seeking to give SRA to all public and private health workers during the COVID-19 pandemic were filed last week.

Marcos also noted the growing number of hospitals experiencing staffing problems as more health workers either get sick with COVID-19 or resign due to the tremendous workload.

Bacolod mayor seeks ERC help on power hike JAIL JABS.

The Cavite Provincial Jail and the Provincial Health Office vaccinate prisoners at the Cavite Penology Jail compound at Barangay Lapidario, Trece Martires City on Friday. Abouve 75 persons received the first dose of Sinovac vaccine provided by the provincial government.

JR Josue

Binay: Mayors know how to run lockdown

By Joel E. Zurbano

F

ORMER Vice President Jejomar Binay on Friday expressed confidence that mayors in Metro Manila will efficiently manage the imposition of granular lockdowns to stop the spread of COVID-19.

“While many experts, including WHO (World Health Organization), have expressed reservations over the timing of the granular lockdown experiment in Metro Manila, let us all do our share and pray for its success,” said Binay “Our people have suffered so much for the last 18 months, and we hope this experiment will provide them with some form of relief,” he added.

Binay said the good thing about the

granular lockdown system is “that it is not the national government that is implementing it but the mayors of Metro Manila.”

He said local government officials know the situation on the ground better than those in the national government.

“And several Metro Manila LGUs have been implementing this type of lockdown for some months now. Not only do they test, trace, and isolate residents in locked down areas but

they also provide food and other essential goods directly to affected residents. In short, the mayors know what to do,” said Binay, who served as Makati City mayor from 1986 to 1998 and from 2001 to 2010.

Binay said the last thing the local chief executives need is for national government imposing policies that are impractical and detached from realities on the ground.

“The best thing the national government can do is to be ready to provide support if needed, especially in enforcing granular lockdowns and extending aid. But they should let the mayors do their work,” he said.

“As a general rule, the national government should leave the mayors alone,” the former vice president added.

BACOLOD City Mayor Evelio “Bing” Leonardia has appealed to the Energy Regulatory Commission to immediately look into the increase in power rates in service areas under the Central Negros Electric Cooperative.

Leonardia also sought the help of ERC Chairperson Agnes Devanadera regarding the damaged portion of the submarine cable of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines since June this year in Amlan, Negros Oriental that consequently cut off the island’s power supply from Cebu.

Other electric cooperatives in Negros and Panay Islands were also forced to increase their power rates as well when a team from the Department of Public Works and Highways was said to have caused the damage to the NGCP cable while performing underwater drilling operations.

Leonardia furnished Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi, DPWH Secretary Mark Villar, and Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy, copies of his letter to the ERC chief.

“Information probably already reached your good office that workers of DPWH accidentally damaged the submarine cable of the NGCP in Amlan town, Negros Oriental sometime in June this year,” Leonardia told Devanadera in his September 1 letter, a copy of which was released to the media only on Friday.

With the incident, the Bacolod mayor said transmission of power supply from Cebu to nine Negros and Panay-based electric cooperatives or distribution utilities (DUs) had also stopped. This prompted the NGCP to activate its expensive-to-operate diesel-powered plants to cover the requirements of the cooperatives in the region, which serve close to 8 million people.

Leonardia said sourcing out supply via the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) to avoid massive outages resulted in the spiraling cost of power, which the utility firms consequently passed on to consumers, “further causing additional burden on the people, who have yet to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in the last one year-and-a-half.”

The exorbitant rate is reflected in their August 2021 billing, he added.

“Electric cooperatives, too, have no choice but to ensure that supply is stable even if they have to source it out from high-priced WESM rate that also charges line rental and related administrative cost, among others,” he told Devanadera.

Sara, Win oversee phase 2 of Davao vax rollout for 25k frontliners in city

By Macon Ramos-Araneta SENATOR Win Gatchalian and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio oversaw the second phase of the vaccination rollout for thousands of essential workers and economic frontliners in the city on Friday.

Over 25,000 Davaoeños are expected to be vaccinated by the end of phase two of the ongoing “Bakuna by the Sea” vaccination site inspection, a joint undertaking of the local government of Davao and the Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao owned and operated by the Gatchalian family.

The project is part of the company’s corporate social responsibility.

An initial 14,000 individuals belonging to the tourism industry and allied services were vaccinated in the first phase of the program last August.

The high turnout of those who sought to be vaccinated prompted Gatchalian and Duterte-Carpio to hold another round of vaccination to expedite the government’s inoculation program ahead of the gradual resumption of economic activities in Davao once the number of COVID-19 cases starts to slow down.

LIVELIHOOD TRAINEES. Tabaco City Mayor Krisel Lagman talks to some of the 71 trainees who attended the Training

Induction Program for livelihood skills on Dressmaking NCII, Bread and Pastry Production NC II and Assembly Solar Nightlight and Post Lamp. The program is a joint initiative of Rep. Edcel Lagman and TESDA Albay in partnership with San Francisco Institute of Science and Technology and Livelihood and Skills Training Center of Tabaco. Norman Cruz

Romualdezes mourn passing of Samar solon Santos, 80 Teresita M. Santos, mother of Manila Standard’s Chief Photographer Felino Santos, peacefully joined her Creator on Sept.14, 2021 at the age of 80.

Her remains lie in state at St. Peter Chapel on 1117 Sta Barbara, Novaliches, Quezon City.

She survived by her children: Geronimo Panganiban, Felicitas Pizarro, Felimon Santos Jr., Felia Santos, Felino Santos, Felicer Santos, Felinita Ramores, Ma. Jhobelle Manibog.

Interment will be held on Sunday, Sept.19, 2021 at the Forest Park, 2 p.m.

By Maricel V. Cruz HOUSE Majority Leader and Leyte 1st District Rep. Martin G. Romualdez on Friday mourned the passing of former Northern Samar Rep. Emil Ong. “We extend our condolences to his family and loved ones. May you find peace in knowing that he is now back to the loving embrace of our Father. Rest now Cong. Emil,” said Romualdez, chairman of the House committee on rules and president of the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats.

The valuable service of Ong to the people will never be forgotten, the lawyer from the University of the Phil-

ippines and president of the Philippine Constitution Association (Philconsa) said.

“Hindi po makakalimutan ang kanyang ‘di matatawarang paglilingkod para sa kapakanan ng kanyang mga minamahal na kababayan,” Romualdez said. “Alay po natin ang ating taos-pusong panalangin para sa namayapang ama ng Ikalawang Distrito ng Northern Samar.”

“I am deeply saddened by the news that our good friend, Rep. Emil Ong, has left us to join his Creator. My sympathies go out to the loves of his life — his family, friends and constituents in Northern Samar,” added Tingog partylist Rep. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez, chairperson of the House committee on the welfare of children.

‘Financial literacy essential in new economy’ ADVOCACY Groups are urging government, financial, and education institutions to address the lack of financial literacy amidst the massive shift to digital platforms for financial transactions to cope with the prolonged health and economic crisis created by the pandemic.

In a released statement, CitizenWatch Philippines Convenor lawyer Tim Abejo said that digital and financial literacy are key to empowering the Filipino workforce amidst these lockdown conditions that have been recurrent for more than 19 months now.

Abejo said, “With the pandemic’s devastating effects on our lives, livelihood, and the economy in general, only digital solutions will help our workers cope with the changes and challenges of our time. These would make them survive, and eventually thrive, in the next normal.”

“However, the lack of financial literacy will deprive our workforce the opportunity to safely invest their hard-earned money and will be stuck in a vicious cycle of laboring long and hard to catch up with the growing cost of living,” Abejo said.

Opinion Duterte’s problem

Now, silence: Afghan musicians abandon their instruments VIOLA player Bahar was practicing at her music college in the Afghan capital, when news broke that the Taliban had reached the city.

Terrified of a return to the days when music was forbidden and women were banned from education, she and her classmates rushed home, abandoning their beloved instruments.

“We all ran away. We saved ourselves, leaving the instruments at the institute,” Bahar tells AFP, using a false name to protect her identity for fear of reprisal.

“I felt like I had lost a family member.”

The Taliban, who banned music outright during their brutal and oppressive rule from 1996 to 2001, swept back into power on August 15.

They have promised a more moderate brand of rule this time -- though they have made clear that they will run Afghanistan within the restrictive limits of their interpretation of sharia law.

After racing home from the Afghanistan National Institute of Music (ANIM), Bahar was devastated to learn that Taliban militants had occupied the campus, turning its classrooms into dormitories.

“I feel like I am no longer living. Physically, I am alive, but the Taliban have taken away my soul,” she says, breaking

down in tears.

Abandoned instruments Bahar was introduced to the college when she was 12 years old, and she says the viola quickly became her “best friend.”

“Music is food for the soul,” she says, adding that she has performed in India, Sweden, the United Kingdom and Azerbaijan.

“I feel extremely peaceful when I play the viola, especially when we play together in the girls’ orchestra,” she adds.

During a visit by AFP to the college, no music can be heard in its corridors -- all that can be heard is the chatter and squabbling of Taliban soldiers.

Armed guards cradle Kalashnikovs in the courtyard, shaded by trees with swirling treble clefs spray-painted on to their trunks.

A mural depicting a burst of multi-coloured musical symbols stands out against the giant armoured door and a nearby guard post.

A Taliban guard shows AFP a storeroom full of intact musical instruments that were left behind, after reports that everything had been trashed.

The caretaker says the group’s leaders had ordered him to protect the instruments.

Trumpets, saxophones and flutes are stacked on shelves, opposite violins and

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EDITORIAL

funds. Sadly, he does this by badmouthing those who have turned critical of his administration while at the same time trying to assure the public that no one among his people is corrupt.

The biggest target of his ire (for now) is Senator Richard Gordon who, after five years of being an ally has started THE Duterte magic is fast dissipating strongly criticizing his administration and he knows it. The telltale signs are especially after Gordon expressed his there for everyone to see. A number of openness to run for a higher office in politicians who, for five years have kept 2022. Gordon has also been at the forequiet, sided with, or even defended Pres- front of the Senate “investigation” on ident Duterte’s highly controversial pro- the Department of Health’s managenouncements and actions have started to ment of billions in pandemic funds. speak up against him. This is particularly Duterte, uses his “talk to the nation” true for those with ambition to run for the sessions to trash-talk Gordon as if the presidency in 2022. country is not being continuously ravaged Also, Duterte’s allies in Congress who by the COVID-19 virus. With our present used to be very vocal in defending the situation, it is more than reasonable to exPresident (except for those who are really pect the president to be hard-pressed in close to him) are now noticeably quiet finding solutions to the record-breaking and may possibly be publicly distancing number of cases and hundreds of deaths themselves from him. Perhaps they know on a daily basis due to the pandemic. that their principal’s popularity is wanDuterte should also be hard at work in ing, and that their own position might be leading the government in finding ways jeopardized if they continue to be seen as to support and strengthen our healthcare being too close to Duterte. system that is at the brink of collapse, I expect that more and more will be- and provide care and assistance to our excome vocal in criticizing Duterte and tremely overworked healthcare workers. his administration He should be busy especially regarding with helping our the way they are hanWhat is happening people who are now dling the pandemic, without livelihood the Commission on to the magic? and going hungry, Audit (COA) reports, and the businesses and the allegations of, that are now in the at best mismanagement of, and at worst, red. corruption involving COVID-19 funds.

He should also be conferring with The weakening of Duterte’s mag- health experts for solutions, and comic may be further fueled by the recent manding the IATF, most especially the decision of the International Criminal DOH to be more efficient, effective, and Court (ICC) Pre-Trial Chamber I’s de- pro-active in testing, contact tracing, cision authorizing the opening of an treatment, and inoculation. investigation in relation to crimes alInstead of telling his people to not mind legedly committed in the Philippines in COA’s reports, he should be ordering the context of Duterte’s “war on drugs”. them to do what needs to be done to clear The investigation will cover the period things up with COA. Instead of simply between November 1, 2011 and March and feebly assuring the Filipino people 16, 2019 when the Philippines was still that his men are upright and not corrupt, a State Party to the Rome Statute, and he should be taking the cudgels for the thus, bound by its provisions.

Filipino people since the funds in quesMoreover, the case covers acts com- tion are owned by the people. He should mitted in Davao area prior to 2016, and be squeezing the truth from Health Secothers, when Duterte already assumed retary Francisco Duque and others who the presidency and started pursuing his may be involved. He should be the first “war on drugs.” to clean up his department.

While the whole process may take There are a million things to do but years before the case is decided, what Duterte chooses to go after his critics. will be unearthed by the investigation In my book, this is a very wrong move. will surely be covered by international He only has a few more months as presand local media. Moreover, since com- ident. This is his last chance to show plainants are Filipinos, it will not be the Filipino people that he is capable of surprising for their stories to come out. doing what is right by the people he is The ICC received 204 victims’ represen- supposed to serve. tations on this case. That’s 204 stories The root of Duterte’s problem is neiwaiting to be told. ther Gordon nor his critics. His problem Thus, Duterte’s problems will not is himself for refusing to do things the easily go away. president should do especially during Given these, what is Duterte busy times when the country and the people with these days? How is he handling the need THE president. Since 2016, the “problems” thrown his way? It appears country has been without a leader presithat the president is unjustifiably preoc- dent. Look where we are now. cupied with defending his people from allegations of possible corruption par@bethangsioco on Twitter; Elizabeth ticularly in the handling of COVID-19 Angsioco on Facebook

By James Edgar

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Balancing health risk and suffrage

T

ria Rosario Vergeire said a mouthful during a press briefing Friday when she stressed: “We all know that when a patient goes out of his or her room or area he or she can infect other people.”

OWARD the weekend, the Department of Health cautioned the Commission on Elections against allowing COVID-19 patients to vote in person in the May 2022 elections, fearing this might lead to added transmission of cases.

The right to vote should not endanger the health of the healthy.

The government’s election watchdog had said isolation centers—in an unprecedented situation due to the pandemic since the right of suffrage became a political exercise in this country— would be set up in polling places to allow COVID-positive voters to still go out of their quarantine areas to vote.

Health Undersecretary Ma-

There is wisdom in that admonition.

But that does not mean, by any yardstick, the qualified voters who are COVID-positive should be deprived of their right and privilege to select their next set of leaders.

Vergeire added what should be

heeded by the Comelec: For the latter to consider other modes to enable the COVID-positive voters to cast their vote.

Nearly two weeks before the end of registration and before the filing of certificates of candidacy, we do not want to second guess that the Comelec does not have hot to trot options to balance the COVID-positive citizens’ right to vote and protecting the health of the general population.

Voting is the cornerstone of democracy where the citizens participate by voting for their leaders to represent them and their ideas.

But the surge in infections has not abated, and is even projected to see new highs.

The right to vote should not endanger the health of the healthy.

The dangerous ideology of neoliberalism Part II WHEN the neoliberals deregulated the currency, and equated that policy to one of economic liberation, they did it without understanding the nuances of inflation; why prices increase nor did they understand the intricacies about the supply and demand side of the economy. Quantitative easing or the printing of money was made arbitrarily to mangle the US economy to attain its political objectives.

In fact, the lending of treasury bills to sustain the deceitful policy of quantitative easing was taken from the reserve currencies of country-members of the World Bank and used by the US Federal Reserve to secure short mortgage loans, thus making countries like the Philippines, part of the consortium of unwilling lenders.

When the US decoupled the dollar from the gold standard, Nixon never thought his decision would principally narrow the budget deficit as agreed in 1946 at Bretton Woods Agreement. US’ arrogance exuded as it was the only industrial power not affected by war and holds more than 70 percent of the world’s total manufacturing output to dominate the world economy. Thereon, the US measured the value of the dollar to its GDP. The shift to GDP in 1973 was caused by its involvement in the Vietnam War. The formula allowed the US a respite to experience financial easing only to relaunch another adventurism even as the Cold War with Russia has yet to be concluded. The neoliberals sought to revive the US economy relying on the validity of the unrestricted flow of capital. The theory was based on the strength of the US GDP, which then represented more than 70 of the world’s total manufacturing industries. violas in cases, while dozens of Afghan tabla drums occupy another storage unit.

Propped up on a bespoke rack in the centre of the storeroom are about a dozen traditional instruments: lute-like tamboors and single-stringed rubabs.

Abandoned practice rooms are each furnished with a keyboard or piano.

A workshop remains in the same state as when it was hurriedly vacated in mid-August—violins are lined up waiting for new strings, a cello lays mid-repair and tools are scattered around an electric keyboard.

A secret guitar Speaking to AFP in Kabul, 28-year-old guitarist Awa says his room used to be stacked with musical instruments.

But fearing the Taliban, he has now destroyed almost all traces of his musical career -- except for one favourite guitar that he has hidden away.

The Kabul University graduate and

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Anita F. Grefal Baldwin R. Felipe Edgar M. Valmorida

That was followed by their worldwide campaign for globalization or free trade through tariff reduction.

Countries were forced to open their doors wider instead of just accepting the most-favored nation (MFN) clause.

Many were enticed to join the World Trade Organization (WTO) after the US and its European allies made sure that their version of free trade was adopted.

Many underdeveloped countries joined, believing tariffs will be reduced.

Instead, it resulted in the revaluation of their currency, thereby allowing the US to increase its imports while exporters

This anomalous system has backfired to hit the US economy hard. decrease the value, not the volume, of their goods.

China was enticed to join the WTO and made to believe free trade will work to their advantage. The currency and wages were low, and the Chinese workers have the skill, efficiency and level of productive output acceptable to the US and European standard. China interpreted free trade to their advantage like giving socialism with the Chinese characteristics to economically move forward.

The neoliberals never anticipated the system of unequal trade would change not only in the value of the currency and goods because of the gradual improvement of the country’s exports viz. by the concomitant increase in the value of their currency. The neoliberals remained fixated to the tremendous profit through outsourcing.

When the ugly side of outsourcing and relocation of production plants began to affect their economy, like incurring enormous trade deficit, the US began to accuse China of violating trade patents and copyright laws, forcing foreign countries to

Full version on www.manilastandard. net

MORE OPINION ONLINE

tutor at the ANIM has stopped posting to his YouTube channel where he used to upload lessons, and no longer replies to comments on his social media accounts.

He has performed with some of Afghanistan’s top music stars, but he now (www.manilastandard.net) worries for his family’s safety.

“It’s natural that if you were involved in music in Afghanistan you would be afraid. Sooner or later the Taliban will come after musicians,” says Awa, also using a pseudonym to protect his identity.

Marcos-Duterte “Since they arrived, life has been hell.

We had big dreams, but now our ambiparallelism tions don’t exist anymore.”

ANIM’s founder Ahmad Sarmast, who now lives in Australia, says he fears for music— especially for children.

“I hope they will allow us to continue to the future of Afghan music.

Since the takeover, he has written to do our work for the best interests of the Afthe Taliban’s leaders to plead for access to ghan people,” he says, AFP

Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Treasury Manager Head—Ad Solutions Circulation Manager

reveal their trade secrets, increased their royalty fees, and unilaterally imposed trade sanctions for allegedly engaging in unfair competition or for defying its trade policy. The case brought against Huawei is rooted on fear that China is about to overtake the US in the field of 5G technology.

Globalization turned into a policy of US exceptionalism. The most appalling was the demand to devalue or revalue the currency. Consumers are required to pay more for their purchase while decreasing their exports. To avoid resistance from mostly wage earners, the neoliberals called the increase inflation, a normal situation in the economy that consumers should not worry about.

The decoupling of the dollar was followed by the deregulation in the prices of basic commodities including those classified as public utilities such as fuel, electric and water. The neoliberals even abrogated the local Anti-Usury Law. Somehow, the US economy was able to slightly recover. The dollar shot up against other currencies. The monetarists called devaluation as “floating rate” to denote that the increase in prices is only temporary even if the policy was imposed against the will of the monetary authorities. The public had to accept more than 100 percent depreciation of their currency.

Some say the shift from gold to GDP initially contributed to increase the surplus capital and the US used it as their capital to invest and engage in the nefarious practice of outsourcing. What the neoliberals did not know is they opened the Pandora’s Box for the early demise of capitalism via the unique process of de-industrialization.

The neoliberals had their smile on the new economic order. The modus operandi allowed the US dollar to automatically increase their imports because of the declining value of foreign exports. Trade imbalance between the US and the underdeveloped countries immeasurably widened.

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher Ramonchito L. Tomeldan Chin Wong/Ray S. Eñano Joyce Pangco Pañares

Managing Editor Associate Editors News Editor

Emil P. Jurado

Jimbo Owen Gulle City Editor Honor Blanco Cabie Night Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Australia shrugs off China anger CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION Branch 100, Quezon City ROXANA PO Plaintiff, -versus-

R-QZN-18-15411-CV For: Extra-Judicial Foreclosure

ALIAS SUMMONS SPS. SUSANA K. TAN and RICHARD C. TAN, ET AL., Defendants. x-----------------------------------x TO : Citibank N.A. – Citibank Center, Paseo de Roxas, Makati City Star (SPV-AMC), Philippines, Inc., -

Unit 3A, One Orion Bldg., 11th Ave., corner 38th Street Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Metro Manila

GREETINGS: You are hereby required, within fifteen (15) days after service of this Summons upon you, to file with this Court and serve on the plaintiffs your answer to the Complaint, copy of which is attached, together with the annexes. You are reminded of the provision in the IBP-OCA Memorandum on Policy Guidelines dated March 12, 2002 to observe restraint in filing a Motion to Dismiss and instead allege the grounds thereof as defenses in the Answer. If you fail to answer within the time fixed, the plaintiffs will take judgment by default and may be granted the relief applied for in the Complaint.

WITNESS, my hand under the seal of the Court this 8th day of July 2019.

(Sgd.) MA. ISABEL A. OLIVEROS Interpreter III-OIC

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION Branch 100, Quezon City ROXANA PO Plaintiff, -versus-

R-QZN-18-15411-CV

SPS. SUSANA K. TAN AND RICHARD C. TAN, STAR (SPV-AMC) PHILS., Inc., Citibank N.A., EX-OFFICIO SHERIFF OF THE REGIONAL TRIAL COURT OF QUEZON CITY, AND THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF QUEZON CITY, Defendants. x----------------------------------------------------------------x

ORDER For resolution before the Court is plaintiff’s Motion for Partial Reconsideration of the Order dated 23 June 2021.

Plaintiff, in support of her motion, explained that Manila Standard erred in its initial quotation on the cost of publication amounting to Php179,675.60, and that she received a copy of the revised quotation to which the publication will now cost Php485,034.12, inclusive of 10% discount. Considering that plaintiff is presently jobless and separated from her husband, she moves for the reconsideration of the assailed Order and for this Court to allow publication of the Summons and Complaint without annexes.

The Court resolves to grant the instant motion for humanitarian considerations taking into account the current financial situation of plaintiff.

While it is true that rules of procedure are intended to promote rather than frustrate the ends of justice, and the swift unclogging of court dockets is a laudable objective, it nevertheless must not be met at the expense of substantial justice. Time and again, the Supreme Court has reiterated the doctrine that the rules of procedure are mere tools intended to facilitate the attainment of justice, rather than frustrate it. A strict and rigid application of the rules must always be eschewed when it would subvert the primary objective of the rules, that is, to enhance fair trials and expedite justice. Technicalities should never be used to defeat the substantive rights of the other party. Every party-litigant must be afforded the amplest opportunity for the proper and just determination of his cause, free from the constraints of technicalities.1 WHEREFORE, premises considered, plaintiff’s Motion for Partial Reconsideration of the Order dated 23 June 2021 is GRANTED. Accordingly, let a copy of the Summons to defendant Star (SPVAMC) Philippines, Inc., together with the Complaint without annexes, and a copy of this Order , be published at plaintiff’s own expense twice in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines, chosen by raffle, pursuant to Section 16, Rule 14 of the of the 2019 Proposed Amendments to the 1997 Rules of Civil Procedure. Defendant Star (SPV-AMC) Philippines, Inc. is hereby ordered to file answer in Court within sixty (60) days after notice hereof. Let also a copy of the Summons, Complaint and its annexes and this Order be sent to defendant Star (SPV-AMC) Philippines, Inc. by registered mail at its last known address, all at the expense of the plaintiff.

SO ORDERED. 23 July 2021, Quezon City, Metro Manila.

(Sgd.) EDITHA G. MINA-AGUBA Presiding Judge

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION Branch 100, Quezon City ROXANA PO Plaintiff, -versus-

R-QZN-18-15411-CV

SPS. SUSANA K. TAN AND RICHARD C. TAN, STAR (SPV-AMC) PHILS., Inc., Citibank N.A., EX-OFFICIO SHERIFF OF THE REGIONAL TRIAL COURT OF QUEZON CITY, AND THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF QUEZON CITY, Defendants. x----------------------------------------------------------------x

ORDER For resolution before the Court are the following incidents: 1) Plaintiff’s Motion for Leave of Court for Service of Summons by Publication Upon Defendant Star (SPV-AMC) Philippines, Inc., and 2) Plaintiff’s Alternative Motion for Leave of Court for Service of Summons Upon Star (SPV-AMC) Philippines, Inc. by Electronic Mail.

In support of its first motion, plaintiff prayed for the service of summons by publication upon defendant Star (SPVAMC) Philippines, Inc. (“defendant Star” for brevity) on the ground that the latter is no longer holding office at its previous known address and its present whereabouts are unknown and cannot be ascertained by diligent inquiry.

Plaintiff, in its alternative motion, averred that defendant Star has changed its name to Star TechPh Management and Consultancy Services, Inc. with Mr. Mark S. Frondoso as the President, as evidenced by the 2018 General Information Sheet of the said company. Having secured the e-mail address of Mr. Frondoso, plaintiff asked that the Summons and Complaint be sent to him through his electronic mail (e-mail) address.

This Court resolves to grant the plaintiff’s Motion for Leave of Court for Service Summons by Publication Upon Defendant Star. However, plaintiff’s alternative motion to serve the same by electronic mail is denied.

Under Section 16, Rule 14 of the 2019 Proposed Amendments to the 1997 Rules of Civil Procedure (“Amended Rules”), service of summons may be effected on a defendant by publication, with leave of court, when such defendant’s whereabouts are unknown and cannot be ascertained by diligent inquiry, to wit: Section 16. Service upon defendant whose identity or whereabouts are unknown. – In any action where the defendant is designated as an unknown owner, or the like, or whenever his or her whereabouts are unknown and cannot be ascertained by diligent inquiry, within ninety (90) calendar days from the commencement of the action, service may, by leave of court, be effected upon him or her by publication in a newspaper of general circulation and in such places and for such time as the court may order.

Any order granting such leave shall specify a reasonable time which shall be less than sixty (60) calendar days after notice, within which the defendant must answer.

Since the Officer’s Return on the Summons was returned unserved as to defendant Star (SPV-AMC) Philippines, Inc., whose current address is not known and cannot be ascertained despite diligent inquiry, summons by publication may be effected against it.

While the Amended Rules already provides for the service of Summons through electronic mail, it must be stressed that the same may be done only if allowed by the Court and if there is a refusal on the part of the authorized persons of the defendant domestic private juridical entity to receive the Summons. The fourth paragraph of Section 12, Rule 14 of the Amended Rules provides: Section 12. Service upon domestic private juridical entity. – When the defendant is a corporation, partnership or association organized under the laws of the Philippines with a juridical personality, service may be made on the president, managing partner, general manager, corporate secretary, treasurer, or in-house counsel of the corporation wherever they may be found, or in their absence or unavailability, on their secretaries.

If such service cannot be made upon any of the foregoing persons, it shall be made upon the person who customarily receives the correspondence for the defendant at its principal office.

In case the domestic juridical entity is under receivership or liquidation, service of summons shall be made on the receiver or liquidator, as the case may be.

Should there be a refusal on the part of the persons above-mentioned to receive summons despite at least three (3) attempts on two (2) different dates, service may be made electronically, if allowed by the court, as provided under Section 6 of this Rule. (underlining supplied) In the instant case, however, it is apparent that there was no refusal on the part of the authorized persons of defendant Star to receive the Summons. The non-receipt of the Summons was due to the unknown whereabouts/address of said defendant. Thus, it is the Court’s view that it is Section 16, Rule 14 of the Amended Rules that is applicable in the instant case. The Court likewise cannot rely on plaintiff’s claim that Mr. Frondoso is the current President of defendant Star since plaintiff merely based such allegation on an outdated document – the 2016 General Services, Inc., which is the purported new company name of defendant Star. Plaintiff, having failed to establish the present status and/or position of Mr. Frondoso as being an authorized officer of defendant Star, this Court cannot allow the service of Summons upon Mr. Frondoso via electronic mail.

WHEREFORE, premises considered, plaintiff’s Motion for Leave of Court for Service of Summons by Publication Upon Defendant Star (SPV-AMC) Philippines, Inc., is hereby GRANTED while the Alternative Motion for Leave of Court for Service of Summons Upon Star (SPV-AMC) Philippines, Inc. by Electronic Mail is DENIED. Let the Summons, together with the Complaint and its annexes for defendant Defendant Star (SPV-AMC) Philippines, Inc. be published together with a copy of this Order at plaintiff’s own expense twice in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines, chosen by raffle, pursuant to Section 16, Rule 14 of the 2019 Proposed Amendments to the 1997 Rules of Civil Procedure. Defendant Star (SPV-AMC) Philippines, Inc. is hereby ordered to file answer in Court within sixty (60) days after notice hereof. Let also a copy of the Summons, Complaint and its annexes and this Order be sent to defendant Star (SPV-AMC) Philippines, Inc., by registered mail at its last known address, all at the expense of the plaintiff.

SO ORDERED. 08 April 2021, Quezon City, Metro Manila (Sgd.) EDITHA G. MINA-AGUBA Presiding Judge

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT National Capital Judicial Region Quezon City ROXANA PO, Plaintiffs, -versusSPOUSES SUSANA K. TAN and RICHARD C. TAN, STAR (SPV-AMC) PHILS., INC., CITIBANK N.A., EX-OFFICIO SHERIFF OF THE REGIONAL TRIAL COURT OF QUEZON CITY, and REGISTER OF DEED OF QUEZON CITY, Defendants. x-----------------------------------------------------x

COMPLAINT

CIVIL CASE NO. R-QZN-18-15411-CV

Plaintiff by counsel respectfully states: 1. Plaintiff Roxana Po is of legal age, Philippine citizen, legally separated, and resident of No. 30 Rallos Street, Quezon City.

2. Whereas, respondents a. Spouses Susana K. Tan and Richard C. Tan are of legal age, married to each other, citizenship unknown, and residents of 166 F. Benitez Street, San Juan City; b. Star (SPV-AMC) Philippines, Inc., is a duly registered domestic corporation with office address 15-02 15th Floor ACCRA Law Tower, 2nd Avenue, corner 30th Street, Crescent Park West, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City; c. Citibank N.A. is a duly registered foreign banking corporation with office address at Citibank Center, Paseo de Roxas, Makati City; d. Ex-Officio Sheriff of the Regional Trial Court of Quezon City is an officer authorized to conduct extrajudicial foreclosure sale in Quezon City with office address at the Hall of Justice, Quezon City; and e. Register of Deed of Quezon City is the government agency created under P.D. 1529 as the public repository of records of instruments affecting registered lands in Quezon City with address at the LRA Compound, East Avenue, Diliman, 1101 Quezon City.

3. This is a complaint (a) to set aside the extrajudicial foreclosure proceedings conducted in FRE No.8060 by defendant Ex-Officio Sheriff on 21 October 2009 of the real estate mortgages executed by Spouses Po with address at #30 Scout Rallos Street, Barangay Laging Handa, Quezon City, and the Certificate of Sale dated 19 November 2009 issued therein; (b) to set aside Transfer Certificate of Title No. 004-2012009460 of the Register of Deeds of Quezon City in the name of defendants Spouses Tan; (c) to reinstate Transfer Certificate of Title No. 26498 of the same Registry of Deeds, or to order the issuance of another transfer certificate of title in the name of Spouses Po entitled to like faith and credit; and (d) for damages.

4. On 8 September 2009, defendant Star (SPV-AMC) filed an Application of Extrajudicial Foreclosure of Real Estate Mortgage (the Application; Annex A) docketed as FRE No. 8060 of the subject property under TCT No. 264981, more particularly described as “A parcel of land (Lot 6, Blk. S-32 (New) of Diliman Estate Subd., plan Psd-20182, being a portion of Blk. 32 of Plan Bsd-7365-B, GLRO Rec. No. 7681), situated in the Dist. Of Diliman, Q. City. Xxx containing an area of

SIX HUNDRED NINETY (690), more or less, x x x .”

5. The Application alleged that Deeds of Mortgage2 were executed on 28 December 1990, 2 April 1992, 11 August 1993, 2 September 1994, and 13 July 1995 by Spouses Po in favor of defendant Citibank and the subject parcel of land was offered as security therefor.3 6. On 20 December 2007, defendant Citibank for an undisclosed amount sold and assign to defendant Star (SPV-AMC) its rights, obligations, and interests in the account of Spouses Po allegedly described in the undisclosed “Agreement” without recourse and without representation or warranty. Thus, becoming the new creditor and mortgagee.4 7. On 17 September 2009, the Notice of Extrajudicial Sale was issued sell the subject property at public auction on 21 or 28 October 2009 at the Justice Hall of Quezon City (Annex B).

8. On 22 September 2009, a Certificate of Posting and an Affidavit of Post of Notice of Sheriff Sale were issued, respectively (Annexes C and D).

9. On 26 September, 3 and 10 October 2009, the Notice of Extrajudicial Sale was allegedly published in The Dawn News Weekly Newspaper with principal office address at No. 9E M. Cristobal St., Brgy. Ermitano, San Juan City. (Annex E).

10. On 21 October 2009, the Minutes of the Auction Sale was issued stating that the subject property was sold to defendant Star (SPV-AMC) as highest bidder for P4, 932,228.46 (Annex F).

11. On 19 November 2009, a Certificate of Sale was issued to defendant Star (SPV-AMC) (Annex G).

12. On 28 April 2011, TCT No. 004-2011005449 (Annex H-5) was issued to defendant Star (SPV-AMC) which cancelled TCT No. 26498 13. On 27 February 2017, a petition was filed in LRC Case No. R-QZN-17-02503-LR (the Petition; Annex H) entitled In Re: Petition for issuance of Writ of Possession for Real Property Covered by Transfer Certificate of Title No. 004-2012009460 issued by the Register of Deeds of Quezon City in the name of Spouses Susana K. Tan and Richard C. Tan under Section 7 of Act 3135, as amended, which was assigned to the Regional Trial Court of Quezon City, Branch 92 and later re-raffled to Branch 98.

14. Defendants Tan alleged in their petition that on 16 June 2011, defendant Star (SPV-AMC) sold the subject property to defendants Spouses Tan for P15,600,000.00 (Annex H-1) and Spouses were issued TCT of Title No. 0042012009460 (Annex H-2) and TCT No. 26498 was cancelled (Annex H-3).

15. On 14 October 2014, defendants Spouses Tan filed a Complaint in Civil Case No.R-QZN-14-10325-CV against Spouses Po for Accion Reivindicatoria which was dismissed without prejudice upon their voluntary motion with the RTC of Quezon City, Branch 84.

16. On 24 January 2018, RTC Branch 92 granted the application for Writ of Possession (Annex I). The motion for reconsideration of the said Order was denied by Branch 98 on 8 June 2018 (Annex J). The Trial Court ruled in the Order dated 8 June 2018 that xxx. Homogenously, this court need not to look into the validity of then mortgage or the manner of its foreclosure, such as the alleged lack of demand on the part of the mortgagee and that Dawn News is not a newspaper of general circulation in Quezon City. There may be remedies available to the oppositor, yet in the meantime, the order of possession must be issued.

17. Plaintiff duly appealed the Orders in LRC Case No. R-QZN-17-02503-LR and the entire records of the case was forwarded to the Court of Appeals as CA-G.R. No. 111335 (Annex K).

18. Section 8 of Act No. 3135, as amended by Act No. 4118, entitled An Act to Regulate the Sale of Property under Special Powers Inserted in or Annexed to Real-Estate Mortgages provides that the debtor may petition that the sale be set aside and the writ of possession cancelled because the mortgage was not violated or the sale was not made in accordance with the provisions thereof, as follows: Section 8. The debtor may, in the proceedings in which possession was requested, but not later than thirty days after the purchaser was given possession, petition that the sale be set aside and the writ of possession cancelled, specifying the damages suffered by him because the mortgage was not violated or the sale was not made in accordance with the provisions hereof, and the court shall take cognizance of this petition in accordance with the summary procedure provided for in section one hundred and twelve of Act Numbered Four Hundred and ninety-six and if it finds the complaint of the debtor justified, it shall dispose in his favor of all or part of the bond furnished by the person who obtained possession. Either of the parties may appeal from the order of the judge in accordance with section fourteen of Act Numbered Four Hundred and ninety-six; but the order of possession shall continue in effect during the pendency of the appeal.

19. The mortgages were not violated and the sale was not made in accordance with the previous of Act 3135, as amended.

20. Assuming to be valid, the mortgages were not violated because there was no valid demand either against Spouses Po. Hence, if ever, they were not in delay.

21. The alleged letter dated 22 July 20095 of defendant Star (SPV-AMC) demanding the amount of P4,932,228.46 was solely addressed to Po Ching Ho at #30 Scout Rallos Street, Barangay Laging Handa, Quezon City, which letter was however not received by him as shown in the LBC history of delivery marked as Annex K-1 of the “Application” because he was no longer residing thereat.

22. Since September 2013, Jimmy Ching Ho Po is no longer a resident of #30 Scout Rallos St., Quezon City per Certification issued by the Punong Barangay of Laging Handa, Quezon City (Annex L-3).

23. As of 7 November 2005, Spouses Po were already legally separated per Decision of the RTC of Quezon City, Branch 88, in Civil Case No. Q-03-505479 as annotated in their Contract of Marriage. (Annex L-2).

24. Po Ching Ho or plaintiff did not received defendant Citibank letter dated 8 January 20036 25. Plaintiff was not also served the same letter.

26. The mortgage action has prescribed. The right to foreclose the mortgage prescribes after ten (10) years (Article 1142 of the Civil Code), and that actions based upon a written contract must be brought within ten (10) years from the time the right of action accrues (Article 1144, id).

27. Assuming to be valid, the last mortgage was executed on 13 July 1995 as alleged in par. 4 d) of the Application, as follows: 4. On various subsequent dates, Mortgagors availed of their credit line account by obtaining additional loans from CITIBANK, to wit: Xxx d) The amount of P1,400,000.00 evidenced by the Fourth Amendment to Real Estate Mortgage dated July 13, 1995, (certified copy hereto attached as Annex “G”).

28. The application for extrajudicial foreclosure was filed on 18 September 20097 or more than 14 years after the last mortgage.

29. The Notice of Extrajudicial Sale of Real Property was not published in a newspaper of general circulation in Quezon City.

30. The Notice of Extrajudicial Sale was published in The Dawn News Weekly Newspaper on 26 September, 3 and 10 October 2009. However, the records in FRE 8060 has only one (1) issue of the said newspaper.

31. The Dawn News Weekly Newspaper has office at No. 9E M. Cristobal St., Brgy. Ermitano, San Juan, Metro Manila as shown on the excerpt thereof (Annex L-1).

32. P.D. 1079, entitled Revising and Consolidating All Laws and Decrees Regulating Advertisements for Public Biddings Publication of Judicial Notices, Notices of Auction Sales and Other Similar Notices, provides that Section 1. All notices of auction sale in extrajudicial foreclosure of real estate mortgage under Act No. 3135 as amended, judicial notices such as notices of sale on execution of real properties, notices in special proceedings, court orders and summonses and all similar announcements arising from court litigation required by law to be published in a newspaper or periodical of general circulation in particular provinces and/ or cities shall be published in newspapers or publications published, edited and circulated in the same city and/or provinces where the requirement of general circulation applies: Provided, That the province or city where the publication’s principal office is located shall be considered the place where it is edited and published: xxx Provided, finally, That no newspaper or periodical which has not been authorized by law to publish and which has not bee regularly published for at least one year before the date of publication of the notices or announcements which may be assigned to it shall be qualified to publish the said notices.

33. To be a newspaper of general circulation, it is required that the same be published for the dissemination of local news and general information; that it has a bona fide subscription list of paying subscribers; that it is published at regular intervals; that it must not be devoted to the interests or published for the entertainment of a particular class, profession, trade, calling, race or religious denomination; that it need not have the largest circulation. [ Perez vs. Perez, G.R. No. 143768, 28 March 2005]; that it must be of general circulation in the city where the property is located; that it is authorized by law to publish notices (id); and that it has been regularly published for at least one (1) year before the date of publication of the notices. (Section 1, P.D. 1079) 34. The publisher’s Affidavit failed to estate the foregoing requirements.

35. From 2 April 2017, plaintiff tried to buy an issue of The Dawn News Weekly Newspaper at nearby newsstands in Quezon City. However, she was informed that the said newspaper is never heard thereat. Newspaper distributors alleged that there is no The Dawn News Weekly Newspaper being circulated in Quezon City. Attached are the Judicial Affidavits of plaintiff and her witnesses Prudencio Molina Roman, Jr., and Johnny B. Lucero to prove this fact (Annexes L, M, and N).

36. This is contrary to the decision of the Supreme Court which held that In the case at bench, there was sufficient compliance with the requirements of the law regarding publication of the notice in a newspaper of general circulation. This is evidenced by the affidavit of publication executed by the New Records publisher, Teddy F. Borres, which stated that it is a newspaper edited in Manila and Quezon City and of general circulation in the cities of Manila, Quezon City et al., and in the Provinces of Rizal xxx, published every Saturday by the Daily Record, Inc., This was affirmed by Pedro Deyta, who was the executive editor of the said newspaper and who was a witness for plaintiff. Deyto testified: a) that the New Record contains news; b) that it has subscribers from Metro Manila and from all over the Philippines; c) that it is published once a week or four times a month; and d) that he had been connected with the said paper since 1958, an indication that the said newspaper had been in existence even before that year. [Fortune Motors (Phils.), Inc. vs. Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company, G.R. No. 115068, 28 November 1996] 37. The real estate mortgages are void. The subject property is a conjugal property having been acquired on 9 February 1990 during the marriage of plaintiff and Po Ching Ho who were married on 29 September 1976.

38. Po Ching Ho mortgaged the subject property without plaintiff’s knowledge and consent. Plaintiff’s signatures in the deed of mortgages were forged. She never signed the deeds of mortgage. She did not also appear before a notary public to acknowledge them.

39. She only came to know the mortgages when she was served a copy of the complaint in Civil Case No. R-QZN14-10325-CV in October 2014.

40. Po Ching Ho was not authorized to mortgage the subject property conjugally owned with plaintiff.

41. The subject property was declared for tax purposes under Tax Declaration No. E-053-02220 with an assessed value of P248,400 and a market value of P1,380,000 (Annex O).

42. Plaintiff was compelled to litigate and engage the services of legal counsel to protect her interests in the amount of P50,000.00 for and as attorney’s fees plus P2,500.00 per diem per court appearance and cost of suit.

43. Plaintiff suffered sleepless nights, serious anxiety, wounded feelings and similar injuries which entitles her to moral damages in the amount of P50,000.00.

44. For the same reasons, plaintiff is also entitled to exemplary damages to serve as a lesson to all who are similarly minded as defendants in the amount of P50,000.00 RELIEF WHEREFORE, it is respectfully prayed of the Honorable Court, after due notice and hearing, to render a decision a. To set aside the extrajudicial sale of the parcel of land then covered by Transfer Certificate of Title No. 26498 of the Registry of Deeds for Quezon City conducted on 21 October 2009. b. To set aside the Certificate of Sale in FRE 8060 dated 19 November 2009. c. To set aside Transfer Certificate of Title No. 004-2012009460 of the Registry of Deeds of Quezon City in the name of defendants Spouses Tan; d. To reinstate Transfer Certificate of Title No. 26498 of the Registry of Deeds for Quezon City or to issue another in the name of Spouses Po Ching Ho and plaintiff Roxana Po to be entitled to like faith and credit; and e. To order respondents jointly and solidarily to pay plaintiff the amounts, as follows: i. P50,000.00 for and as attorney’s fees plus P3,500.00 per diem per court appearance; and ii. P50,000.00 each as moral and exemplary damages. iii. Costs of suit.

Other just and equitable relief are also prayed for.

26 November 2018, Pasig City for Quezon City.

IFURUNG LAW OFFICES Counsel for plaintiff Unit 1902-A East Tower Philippine Stock Exchange Centre Exchange Road, Ortigas Center 1605 Pasig City Cel. No. 0917-8160530 Tel. No. 706-0004 Email: ifurungr@gmail.com Republic of the Philippines) Quezon City ) x-------------------------------------x

By: (Sgd.) REY NATHANIEL C. IFURUONG Attorney Roll No. 34481 IBP Life Member Roll No. 012452 OR No. 962619/07 February 2014 PTR OR No. 4570236/Pasig/21 June 2018 MCLE V Comp. No. 0007544/14 May 2015

VERIFICATION AND CERTIFICATE OF NON-FORUM SHOPPING I, ROXANA PO, under oath, depose and state: that I am the plaintiff in the above-entitled case; that I read the same and that the contents thereof are true and correct of my own knowledge and based on authentic documents.

I certify (a) that I have not therefore commenced any other action involving the same issues in the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals or different divisions thereof, or any other tribunal or agency; xxx ; EXCEPT that plaintiff appealed to the Court of Appeals the Orders dated 24 January 2018 and 8 June 2018 of the Regional Trial Court of Quezon City, Branches 92 and 98, respectively, as alleged in pars 16 and 17 of the foregoing complaint; and if I should thereafter learn that another similar action or proceeding has been filed or is pending before the SC, CA or different divisions thereof, or any other tribunal or agency, I undertake to promptly inform the aforesaid courts and other tribunal or agency thereof within five (5) days therefrom.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto affixed my signature November 26, 2018 at Quezon City.

(Sgd.) ROXANA PO Affiant I a Notary Public for and in Quezon City this November 26, 2018 certify that on a single occasion, affiant (a) appeared in person before me and presented the foregoing Complaint; (b) is personally known to me as identified by me through competent evidence of identity; (c) signed the same in my presence; and (d) took an oath before me as to such document.

Doc. No. 313; Page No. 64; Book No. LVIII Series of 2018.

(MStandard-Sep. 18 & 25, 2021)

Defends acquisition of nuclear submarines

Standard Manila

TODAY

A

USTRALIA on Friday shrugged off Chinese anger over its decision to acquire US nuclearpowered submarines, while vowing to defend the rule of law in airspace and waters where Beijing has staked hotly contested claims.

US President Joe Biden announced the new Australia-US-Britain defense alliance on Wednesday, extending US nuclear submarine technology to Australia as well as cyber defense, applied artificial intelligence and undersea capabilities.

Beijing described the new alliance as an “extremely irresponsible” threat to regional stability, questioning Australia’s commitment to nuclear non-proliferation and warning the Western allies that they risked “shooting themselves in the foot.”

China has its own “very substantive programme of nuclear submarine building,” Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison argued Friday in an interview with radio station 2GB. “They have every right to take decisions in their national interests for their defence arrangements and of course so does Australia and all other countries,” he said.

In a series of media interviews, the Australian leader said his government was reacting to changing dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region where territory is increasingly contested and competition is rising. AFP

Over 600,000 miniature white flags to symbolize the lives lost to COVID-19 in the US—a project by artist Suzanne Brennan Firstenberg—are seen in front of the Washington Monument. AFP

IN BRIEF Race for Japan’s new PM kicks off

THE campaign to become Japan’s next prime minister kicks off on Friday, with four candidates vying for leadership of the ruling party in an unusually close race.

The candidates include two women hoping to lead a country that has never had a female prime minister, though both are considered long shots.

The race follows Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga’s shock announcement last month that he would not run for head of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party.

Whoever the party picks in a September 29 vote will become prime minister and contest a general election that has to be held by late November.

As the LDP is expected to retain power, its leader is likely to be the person leading the world’s third largest economy in coming years, and will face challenges from dealing with China to tackling climate change.

While outspoken vaccine chief Taro Kono leads public opinion polls on who should be Japan’s next leader, the result is far from clear-cut because most of the party’s major factions are not backing a candidate. AFP

China astronauts return to earth

CHINESE astronauts returned to earth Friday after completing the country’s longest-ever crewed mission, the latest landmark in Beijing’s drive to become a major space power.

The capsule carrying the three astronauts was suspended on a parachute and landed in the Gobi desert at 1:35 pm local time (05:35 GMT).

The crew of the Shenzhou-12 spacecraft were in “good health” after the 90-day mission, a record duration for China, state broadcaster CCTV reported.

Live footage showed medical crew and support staff in a helicopter rush to a landing site in the Gobi desert. One staffer planted the Chinese national flag near the capsule.

The taikonauts—as Chinese astronauts are known —will undergo a 14-day quarantine before they can go home “because their immune systems may have weakened after the long mission,” Huang Weifen, chief designer of China’s manned space project, told CCTV. AFP

Spoons: Palestine freedom symbol

THE humble spoon has taken its place alongside traditional flags and banners as a Palestinian resistance symbol, after prisoners were said to have carried out one of Israel’s most spectacular jail breaks with the utensil.

When the six Palestinian militants escaped through a tunnel on September 6 from the high security Gilboa prison, social networks shared images of a tunnel at the foot of a sink, and a hole dug outside.

A hashtag, “the miraculous spoon,” suggested how the Hollywood-style feat might have occurred.

But whether or not the utensil had really been involved or its role was cooked up was at first unclear.

Then on Wednesday a lawyer for one of the fugitives who has since been recaptured told AFP that his client, Mahmud Abdullah Ardah, said he had used spoons, plates and even the handle of a kettle to dig the tunnel from his cell.

He began scraping his way out from the northern Israeli institution in December, the lawyer, Roslan Mahajana, said.AFP

Business

B3

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

China formally applies to join trans-Pacific free-trade pact

PSEi September 17, 2021

TOP GAINERS

LAST %

PRICE CHANGE CHANGE 1 ATNB 0.58 0.08 16.00% 2 AEV 50 2.9 6.16% 3 WLCON 28.3 1.3 4.81% 4 VMC 2.46 0.11 4.68% 5 GMA7 14 0.6 4.48% 6 PA 3.29 0.14 4.44% 7 TECHW 1.65 0.07 4.43% 8 ACPB1 525 20 3.96% 9 PRF3A 1085 40 3.83% 10 LMG 4.5 0.15 3.45%

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PRICE CHANGE CHANGE 1 MJC 1.98 -0.32 -13.91% 2 IMP 1.47 -0.18 -10.91% 3 REG 2.52 -0.24 -8.70% 4 ROX 1.29 -0.12 -8.51% 5 AXLM 2.53 -0.22 -8.00% 6 SOC 0.65 -0.05 -7.14% 7 GLO 3000 -200 -6.25% 8 SEVN 85 -5.45 -6.03% 9 MAC 4.27 -0.25 -5.53% 10 MB 0.4 -0.02 -4.76%

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1 CNVRG 2 ACEN 3 MONDE 4 GLO 5 ICT 6 ALI 7 AC 8 AP 9 TEL 10 SMPH

VOLUME VALUE (PHP) 77,172,800 2,699,500,910 133,860,300 1,393,855,046 47,457,500 918,824,310 285,650 872,276,400 4,003,010 761,379,108 17,989,400 598,135,430 646,350 524,588,205 12,481,300 408,313,455 266,445 394,508,075 11,887,500 393,622,495

RECYCLED PLASTIC. An Indonesian activist from ECOTON (ecological observation and wetland conservation) prepares an installation made with used plastic, including 4,444 bottles, collected from the river in Gresik on September 17, 2021, to raise public awareness of plastic waste in rivers and oceans. AFP

Stocks fall on profit taking; Globe and Converge down

S

TOCKS retreated Friday on profit taking and lingering concerns on COVID-19 as investors opted to cash in on Thursday gains.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index fell 55.58 points, or 0.8 percent, to 6,912,85 on a value turnover of P15.2 billion. Losers beat gainers, 119 to 74, with 52 issues unchanged.

Globe Telecom Inc., the secondbiggest mobile phone company, sank 6.2 percent to P3,000, while Jollibee Foods Corp., the largest fast-food chain, dropped 3.4 percent to P197.

Converge ICT Solutions Inc., a fiber internet service provider, declined 2.8 percent to P34.50, but Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc. of the Aboitiz Group climbed 6.2 percent to P50.

Meanwhile, Asian markets mostly rose Friday as beleaguered investors trudged into the weekend after a painful few days,

with confidence dealt a heavy blow by the Delta variant, Chinese regulatory crackdowns, disappointing economic data and brewing geopolitical tensions.

Hong Kong enjoyed a gain Friday, with casinos and tech seeing muchneeded advances, while Shanghai, Seoul, Wellington, Mumbai and Jakarta were also up. However, Sydney, Singapore and Bangkok dipped.

Tokyo resumed its recent upward trend as the ruling party started a leadership election to determine Japan’s next prime minister, with hopes that the winner will push through a new massive stimulus package.

The gains came despite another tepid lead from Wall Street, which was pulled between better-than-expected US retail sales and an above-forecast reading on jobless claims.

Thursday’s readings were not enough to provide any insight into when the Federal Reserve might start winding down the ultra-loose monetary policy that has been key to a

global economic and equity rally for more than a year.

The main focus for investors is now the bank’s policy meeting next week, where it could say how much and how long it will dial back on the vast bondbuying program.

“They’ll probably admit they’re going to taper, but maybe not taper as much as everybody thought,” markets strategist Louis Navellier said.

Eyes are also on the progress of Joe Biden’s multi-trillion-dollar infrastructure and social spending plans, which are struggling through Congress. At the same time, lawmakers are still to agree on raising the debt ceiling—bring the possibility of a catastrophic US default into play.

That all comes against the backdrop of the highly transmissible Delta COVID mutation, which has sent infections around the world surging and forced several countries to reimpose lockdowns and other containment measures. With AFP

Marks & Spencer closes down 11 France stores on Brexit fallout

By Olivier Devos LONDON, United Kingdom—British retailer Marks & Spencer said Thursday it will shut more than half its stores in France with Brexit affecting supplies of fresh and chilled food products.

Announcing the closure of 11 out of 20 franchise stores, the food-to-clothing retailer said in a statement that “the lengthy and complex export processes... following the UK’s exit from the European Union are significantly constraining” supplies.

While it will shut all 11 franchise stores with partner SFH in France over the coming months, affecting around 100 jobs, the nine franchise stores with partner Lagardere Travel Retail will remain open across airports and train stations, Marks & Spencer added.

The British group’s website in France, which sells mostly clothing and home products, will also keep running.

“M&S has a long history of serving customers in France and this is not a decision we or our partner SFH have taken lightly,” Paul Friston, managing director of the British company’s international arm, added in the statement.

“However, as things stand today, the supply chain complexities in place following the UK’s exit from the European Union, now make it near impossible for us to serve fresh and chilled products to customers to the high standards they expect.”

In this file photo taken on January 09, 2018, a man walks past a branch of Marks and Spencer supermarket in west London.

British retailer Marks and Spencer said Thursday it planned to shut more than half its stores in France with Brexit affecting supplies of fresh and chilled products. AFP

Marks said it planned to close the mainly Paris stores by the end of the year.

Already following Britain’s formal EU exit at the start of the year, M&S has reconfigured its food business in Czech Republic, removing the sale of all fresh and chilled products from stores.

“The red tape that comes with largescale change like Brexit can cause damage, especially in businesses that were already facing headwinds, and

that’s what we’ve seen with these closures” in France, Sophie Lund-Yates, senior equity analyst Hargreaves Lansdown stockbrokers, told AFP. Marks & Spencer has experienced tough trading conditions in main market Britain over recent years, with its clothes offerings coming under strain from online competition.

The group—known for its off-thepeg suits and sandwiches enjoyed by office workers—axed about 7,000 jobs last year as the pandemic kept

people at home.

Border issues The update from M&S comes as British businesses across various sectors are struggling with deliveries as the pandemic and Brexit result in a shortage of lorry drivers.

Britain on Tuesday said it would push back its implementation of full post-Brexit borders checks on goods from the European Union, as COVID, red tape and new immigration rules fuel supply problems. AFP

Italy makes COVID-19 ‘green pass’ obligatory for all employees ROME, Italy—Italy on Thursday made its anti-COVID “green pass” obligatory for all employees, in a bid to boost vaccine rates ahead of the winter flu season.

The law, which will penalize workers who are unvaccinated or do not have proof of a recent negative coronavirus test, is set to come into effect on October 15.

“We’re extending the ‘green pass’ obligation to the entire world of work, both public and private,” Health Minister Roberto Speranza told a press conference after the government took the decision.

“And we’re doing it for two basic reasons: to make these places safer and make our vaccination campaign stronger,” Speranza said.

The pass is a certificate that shows whether someone has been vaccinated against COVID-19, tested negative in the previous 48 hours, or recently recov-

ered from the virus.

It is currently mandatory for indoor-dining in restaurants, for cinemas and sports stadiums, intercity trains and buses or domestic flights, and for teachers.

Just over 40 million people are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus in Italy, roughly equivalent to 75 percent of the population over the age of 12.

And the government hopes to boost that figure by another four million.

Under the new law, workers failing to produce a pass will face fines of up to 1,000 euros ($1,200), according to media reports. Unjustified absences due to failure to secure a pass could lead to the employee being suspended, they said.

Even within the medical establishment where inoculation is obligatory, the vaccine faces obstacles.

The FNOMCeO medical association told AFP

Thursday that 728 doctors have been suspended for not being vaccinated.

Among teaching staff, 93.1 percent have been completely vaccinated or have received at least a first dose, while another 6.7 percent are awaiting a first dose or the single-dose Johnson & Johnson jab, according to the government.

The government’s decision concerns “a total of 23 million workers, the country’s entire human capital,” said Renato Brunetta, the public administration minister.

Italy was the first European country to be hit by a wave of coronavirus cases in February 2020, and plunged into a major recession. More than 130,000 people with COVID-19 have since died.

Italy is not the first European country to oblige workers to either be vaccinated or take regular tests. AFP

BEIJING, China—China has formally applied to join a major trans-Pacific trade partnership, its commerce ministry said late Thursday, despite rising geopolitical tensions with member country Australia.

Signed by 11 Asia-Pacific countries in 2018, the partnership is the region’s biggest free-trade pact and accounts for around 13.5 percent of the global economy.

“On September 16, Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao submitted China’s official application to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP),” the ministry said in an online statement.

It added the application was submitted via a letter to New Zealand’s trade minister Damien O’Connor and that both Wentao and O’Connor had a phone conversation about follow-up work for China’s membership application.

China had already signaled interest in joining the CPTPP multiple times, with Premier Li Keqiang saying in March that the world’s second-largest economy “will actively consider joining.”

The CPTPP is the successor to a previous trans-Pacific trade pact that the United States withdrew from under Donald Trump in 2017.

The Chinese Embassy of Australia this week lobbied Canberra to join, writing to an Australian parliamentary inquiry that “China’s accession to the CPTPP would yield large economic benefits,” Bloomberg reported.

However, all eleven members of the CPTPP would need to reach a consensus to allow Beijing to join—a tricky prospect during the tumultuous geopolitical dispute with Canberra that has seen China impose tariffs on a range of Australian goods including wine and barley.

Australia asked the WTO on Thursday to rule against tariffs on wine exports to what was once its largest market.

On Wednesday, Canberra unveiled a strategic military partnership with the US and UK that would provide it with nucleararmed submarines in a bid to counter Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific. AFP

Hyundai Heavy shares double price in market SEOUL, South Korea—Shares in the world’s biggest shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries more than doubled from their initial public offering price when they made their stock trading debut on Friday.

Hyundai Heavy’s IPO follows a restructuring of the wider group linked to a deal to take a majority stake in global number two Daewoo, although that is still waiting regulatory approval.

The Hyundai Heavy flotation price was set at 60,000 Korean won, but they rocketed to 135,000 won in the first hour of trading in Seoul, up 125 percent.

The share price closed at 111,500 won, just short of double the IPO price, giving it a market capitalization of 9.9 trillion won ($8.4 billion).

More than 1,600 domestic and foreign institutional investors applied for shares during the flotation process earlier this month.

The offering raised 1.08 trillion won.

Hyundai Heavy said it planned to use around 760 billion won of the flotation proceeds to invest in next-generation vessels and environment-friendly technologies.

The Daewoo transaction was announced in 2019 but still needs approval from authorities in South Korea, Japan and the European Union.

If it goes ahead it will consolidate Hyundai Heavy’s position as the dominant global shipbuilder, giving it more than 20 percent of the market. AFP Manila

Standard NOTICE OF LOSS OF

TODAY STOCK CERTIFICATE

NOTICE is hereby given that the followingStock Certificate issued by the Allied Care Experts (ACE) Medical Center Iloilo Inc. was declared burned or damaged in the affidavit of Loss executed by the registered holder and recorded in the notarial register of Atty. Nestor M. Sorilla of Iloilo City on July 14, 2021 as Doc No. 305; Page No. 62; Book No. VI; Series of 2021.

Name of Certificate No. of Registered No. Shares Holder WINSTON G. BERBEDER

000341

10

If no adverse claim regarding the above certificate of stock is presented to the Corporate Secretary of Allied Care Experts (ACE) Medical Center Iloilo Inc. at Ungka 1 Jaro Iloilo City, within one (1) year from the last publication of this Notice, The right to make such claim shall be forever barred and the corporation shall in its books the above certificate of stock and issue new certificate in lieu of thereof.

MS-SEPT. 18/25 & OCT. 2, 2021)

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

B4

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021

Business

PSE INDEX CLOSING Friday, September 17, 2021 -55.58 PTS. 6,912.85

TOTAL VOLUME TOTAL TRADES TOTAL VALUE

1,814,629,063 100,417 15,218,521,268.39

ADVANCES 74 DECLINES 119 UNCHANGED 52

F oreign E xchange R ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2021

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

49.8520

Japan

Yen

0.009114

0.4544

UK

Pound

1.379600

68.7758

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.128482

6.4051

Switzerland

Franc

1.078283

53.7546

Canada

Dollar

0.788519

39.3092

Singapore

Dollar

0.743771

37.0785

Australia

Dollar

0.729400

36.3620

Bahrain

Dinar

2.654069

132.3106

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266702

13.2956

Brunei

Dollar

0.741015

36.9411

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000070

0.0035

Thailand

Baht

0.030266

1.5088

UAE

Dirham

0.272272

13.5733

Euro

Euro

1.177100

58.6808

Korea

Won

0.000851

0.0424

China

Yuan

0.154899

7.7220

India

Rupee

0.013592

0.6776

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.240558

11.9923

New Zealand

Dollar

0.707100

35.2503

Taiwan

Dollar

0.036053

1.7973 Source: BSP

T

HE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said Friday it revised downward the balance of payments surplus projection this year to $4.1 billion from $7.1 billion, as it took a more guarded view of global developments for the rest of the year.

Zeno Ronald Abenoja, managing director of the BSP’s Department of Economic Research, said in an online briefing the revision reflected the uncertainty posed by the lingering pandemic.

SM VACCINATION. The SM Group intensifies broad vaccination efforts in solid support of national recovery. About 94 percent of eligible SM employees already received free vaccine doses since the arrival of orders in the second quarter. SM ordered over 500,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines for its employees and for donation to the national government. SM’s vaccination program is a joint effort of all the SM companies, including SM Investments Corp., SM Prime Holdings Inc., SM Retail Inc., BDO Unibank Inc., China Banking Corp. and portfolio companies such as 2GO Group Inc., Atlas Mining & Development Corp. and Goldilocks Bakeshop.

Abenoja said other factors considered for the revision were the expected lower current account surplus and the widening of trade-in-goods deficit.

“The current 2021 BOP assessment takes on a more guarded view of global and domestic economic developments going into the remaining months of the year. While global growth forecasts have been relatively unchanged from earlier estimates, domestic growth prospects have been scaled down [from 6-7 percent to 4-5 percent],” Abenoja said.

He said two risks affected the latest external sector assessment, including the rapid spread of the more transmissible COVID-19 Delta variant which led to recent spikes in infection cases and more austere mobility restrictions and the supply and logistical issues in vaccine administration, rendering the

achievement of herd immunity more elusive and delaying plans to further open economies.

“Nonetheless, the continued strong government policy support alongside a more targeted implementation of quarantine measures is expected to help the Philippine economy gradually carve a path towards a safe recovery,” Abenoja said.

The new $4.1-billion BOP surplus projection for 2021 is lower than the actual BOP surplus of $16 billion last year.

BOP is the difference between payments into and out of a country over a period.

Abenoja said the current account would likely post a surplus of $3.5 billion this year, down from the estimate of $10-billion surplus made in the second quarter 2021.

He said that in 2022, BOP would con-

SEC approves Jollibee’s plan to sell P20-b shares

tinue to post a surplus, but at a lower level of $1.7 billion, a downward revision from the previous estimate of $2.7 billion surplus.

The Monetary Board approved the new set of 2021 and 2022 BOP projections during the Sept. 16, 2021 meeting.

Abenoja said global and domestic economic activities were expected to fare better next year, with recovery more firmly underway on expectations of contained COVID-19 cases as most economies inoculated a greater share of their population.

Cash remittances, one of the country’s pillars of growth, are seen to pick up at a faster pace of 6 percent in 2021, an upward revision from the 4-percent estimate made in the second quarter of 2021.

P&G DONATION.

Officers of the Philippine General Hospital receive donations from Procter & Gamble executives in support of frontliners. Coinciding with PGH’s 114th founding anniversary, P&G donated 4,000 PPE suits and its newest healthcare product innovation,Vicks First Defence, to PGH to help protect front-liners in one of the hospitals that receive the most severe cases in Metro Manila.

Vicks First Defence is a nasal spray product for early intervention of the common cold.

By Jenniffer B. Austria THE Securities and Exchange Commission said Friday it approved the P20-billion maiden preferred shares offering of food chain operator Jollibee Foods Corp.

Jollibee plans to sell up to 20 million of cumulative, non-voting, nonparticipating, non-convertible and redeemable perpetual preferred shares at P1,000 apiece. Jollibee may issue the preferred shares in one or more tranches within three years.

The company will offer up to P8billion worth of preferred shares, with an over-allotment option of another P4 billion under the first tranche.

Net proceeds for the fund raising activity will be used for the partial redemption of the company’s $250 million out of the $600-million inaugural senior perpetual securities issued in January 2020 and capital expenditures on commissary and store expansion.

Jollibee said wholly-owned subsidiary Zenith Foods Corp. was planning to build a commissary in Cebu to support the business needs in Visayas and Mindanao.

The group also seeks to open 450 new stores both here and abroad this year.

The preferred shares will be listed and traded on the main board of the Philippine Stock Exchange.

Based on the latest timetable submitted to the SEC, the offer period will be Sept. 28 to Oct. 4, 2021.

The group hired BPI Capital Corp. as the issue manager for the transaction, which will also serve as joint lead underwriter and bookrunner along with BDO Capital & Investment Corp., China Bank Capital Corp. and SB Capital Investment Corp.

The company said the issuance of preferred shares would not change its cash dividend policy.

This will enable JGC to reduce foreign exchange risks and maintain capability to finance profitable growth, which is forecasted to accelerate in the next months and years.

Phoenix inoculates 97% of workforce

PHOENIIX Petroleum Philippines said it vaccinated 97 percent of its workforce, with 60 percent of them fully inoculated as part of efforts to help achieve herd immunity.

It said 15 of its stations were served by fully vaccinated station staff. The remaining purchased vaccines were extended to dependents, their families and third-party service providers.

The company said prioritizing safety among employees began as early as last year, where Phoenix was one of the first companies to implement remote and alternative working arrangements.

Phoenix said that as part of COVID-19 response, a strategic communication plan was immediately developed to encourage vaccinations among employees working from home, frontliners running convenience stores and retail shops, and staff stationed at terminal depots and liquefied petroleum gas plants.

“We enlisted the help of our company medical staff and consulted with experts outside the organization to equip ourselves with data,” said Phoenix corporate health, safety and environment supervisor Ronaldo Ulep.

Alena Mae S. Flores

Globe meets target to lay 1m fiber lines

BSP turns cautious, cuts BOP target

By Julito G. Rada

IN BRIEF

Ayala raises $400m from US bond issue after strong demand CONGLOMERATE Ayala Corp. raised $400 million from the issuance of US dollar-denominated fixed-for-life (non-deferrable) senior perpetual notes amid strong demand from high-quality investors.

Ayala said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Friday the notes would have a fixed coupon of 3.9 percent for life, with no step-up and no reset, payable semiannually.

It priced the notes at par with a reoffer yield of 3.9 percent, which represents a 40-basis-point compression from the initial guidance of 4.3 percent.

The offering was oversubscribed by 4.4 times, as the final order book reached $1.75 billion.

“As we reposition our portfolio to adapt

to the rapidly changing environment, the success of this issuance strengthens further our financial position that enables us to scale investments in critical sectors and do our part in helping reinvigorate the Philippine economy,” said Ayala president and chief executive Fernando Zobel de Ayala.

Ayala chief finance officer Alberto de Larrazabal said the fund raising and liability management exercise would further strengthen the group’s balance sheet and provide additional flexibility as it repositions for post-pandemic economic recovery.

“We are grateful for the steadfast support from our credit investor base despite the current uncertainties in the

market brought about by the pandemic,” de Larrazabal said.

The net proceeds from the notes will be used to refinance the company’s outstanding US dollar-denominated notes.

The company is conducting a tender offer to buy back a portion of its $400-million, 5.125 percent senior fixed-for-life notes and $400-million, 4.85 percent senior fixed-for-life notes.

Ayala tapped BPI Capital Corp., Citigroup Global Markets Singapore Pte. Ltd., Credit Suisse (Singapore) Limited, J.P. Morgan (S.E.A.) Limited, Mizuho Securities (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. and UBS AG Singapore Branch as the joint lead managers and joint bookrunners for the transaction. Jenniffer B. Austria

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said Friday it completed its target to lay one million fiber lines this year, three months ahead of schedule.

“All of our regional teams delivered big numbers especially in Luzon that helped reach our aspiration despite the continuing challenges of the pandemic. With rollouts in full swing, we expect to sustain the momentum until the end of the year,” said Globe senior vice president for program delivery Joel Agustin.

Fiber provides high-speed internet, allowing customers to send data at much higher bandwidths, download or upload large files faster, stream high-definition videos and webinars and use multiple online programs to run simultaneously to name a few of its benefits and advantages.

Aside from making available more fiber lines, Globe is also making the services more affordable to customers. Globe At Home’s offering of UNLI Fiber UP 1499 comes with up to 35Mbps speeds.

The internet-only unlimite1d plan comes in handy when attending online classes, downloading school modules and uploading completed homework. Darwin G. Amojelar

DBP approved P8.5-b loans in first semester

STATE-RUN Development Bank of the Philippines, one of the largest lenders in terms of assets, said Friday it approved P8.5 billion in funding support for the rehabilitation efforts of both public and private institutions adversely affected by the global health crisis.

DBP president and chief executive Emmanuel Herbosa said in a statement the bank extended financing support to 90 companies in the first six months under its Rehabilitation Support Program on Severe Events or RESPONSE and its sub-program DBP RESPONSE to accelerate recovery of micro, small and medium enterprises.

“The DBP RESPONSE will continue to be the bank’s centerpiece program to encourage private businesses and public institutions to rebuild, rehabilitate, recover and to resume operations, thereby boosting the government’s national recovery program,” Herbosa said.

The DBP RESPONSE also provides rehabilitation financing support to DBP and non-DBP borrowers stricken by calamities and/or force majeure events, including typhoons, floods, drought, pest and disease infestations, earthquakes, peace and order problems and other similar events. Julito G. Rada

MPTC to install more solar panels on expressways

By Darwin G. Amojelar METRO Pacific Tollways Corp. said Friday it is studying the transition of its operational toll roads into more sustainable highways.

“This is in alignment with the company’s commitment to build with least disruption to the communities and the environment; and supporting Philippines’ first Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emission by 75 percent by the year 2030,” said MPTC chief finance officer and senior executive sponsor for sustainability Christopher Lizo.

The company’s Cavite-Laguna Expressway project is being integrated with resource-saving and emission-reduction technologies, while maintaining the high standard of road safety features of the expressway.

Toll plazas of the operational sections of CALAX are equipped with solar panels that can power its own operations. The total power output of 116.58kWp, since installation started in May 2021, avoided over 10,200 kg of carbon dioxide, or equivalent to having planted 304 trees.

Installed solar panels and inverters are expected to be operational for 25 years and 10 years, respectively. All future toll plazas and offices along the road alignment will have provisions of solar photovoltaic system installations.

With Roy Tomandao

Vehicle sales rose 33% in eight months despite August decline and NCR lockdown

By Alena Mae S. Flores THE Association of Vehicle Importers and Distributors Inc. said Friday sales by member companies increased 33 percent in the first eight months, despite an 18-percent decline in August following the re-imposition of the enhanced community quarantine in Metro Manila.

“The entire industry hit a pot hole in August due to the necessary health restrictions. Despite this, we at AVID choose to be optimistic as we approach the final

stretch of the year,” AVID president Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo said in a statement.

AVID registered total sales of 39,011 units in the eight-month period, up from 29,363 units sold in the same period last year.

Sales fell 18 percent to 3,919 units in August from 4,753 units in the same month last year. August sales also saw a 19-percent reduction from the recorded 4,862 units in July.

“This slowdown was mainly caused by the sporadic lockdown due to new highs

in recorded COVID-19 cases. Despite the slight contraction, the Philippine automotive industry remains on track toward recovery,” the group said.

AVID said the light commercial vehicle category was the most purchased segment, maintaining a 72-percent market share of total industry sales.

LCV sales improved by 44 percent in the first eight months to 27,956 units from 19,412 units sold in the same period of 2020.

Ford continued to lead the segment

with an eight-month high of 11,639 units, with Suzuki at second place with 7,874 units and Hyundai at third with 3,420 units sold.

Commercial vehicles posted the highest segment sales growth at 362 percent in the first eight months. Hyundai trucks and buses accounted for the bulk of sales with an impressive 99.7-percent growth.

Hyunda works with the government’s Public Utility Vehicles Modernization Program with its steady introduction of next-gen modern jeepney models.

Sports

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Randy M. Caluag, Assistant Editor

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021

C1

Abueva fuels Hotshots past Batang Pier

By Peter Atencio

Magnolia’s Calvin Abueva maneuvers his way against the defense of NorthPort’s Sidney Onwubere in a PBA game won by the Hotshots, 90-89.

Trainers, owners bat for opening of fitness clubs

By Randy Caluag

F

ITNESS and martial arts clubs are closing and their owners and trainers are crying out loud for the government to let them operate and make people healthier and stronger.

The COVID-19 virus has caused their businesses to go on and off. Sadly, the fitness sector has not been tagged as essential by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases, the government’s supervising body to combat the pandemic.

Monith Pabroa of Elements MMA Club based in Manila said if only the fitness clubs could unite, present a uniformed health protocol suggestion and push for their re-opening, it could save a lot of people’s lives and the industry from going bankrupt.

“We should be allowed to open so that people can maintain their good health.

Kung walang ginagawang physical activities at puro kain sa bahay, bababa ang immune system talaga ng tao at magka-

Martial Arts disciplines clash at ONE X hybrid match ONE Championship promised something groundbreaking for their tenth anniversary show ONE X, which is scheduled for December 5, and boy have they been living up to expectations.

ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong announced three of the card’s bouts on Thursday morning (Manila time) on Ariel Helwani’s “The MMA Hour,” but it’s the Muay Thai-Mixed Martial Arts hybrid megabout between Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson and ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon that’s been getting all the attention.

“It’s going to be the biggest and most unique show in the history of the company. I think it’s going to be something crazy fun all over the world,” Sityodtong said.

The men will battle under a unique ruleset, competing in three, four minute rounds where the disciplines change with each round.

In the first round, Rodtang and Johnson will compete under Muay Thai rules before the match moves to a mixed martial arts bout in the second round.

If both survive each other’s expertise in the first two rounds, then the match will return to Muay Thai once more in the third before ending with mixed martial arts in the fourth.

Pitting two of the best athletes of their respective sports against each other in a hybrid match like this is an exciting way to banner a milestone night.

“Rodtang - his record is 267 wins and 42 losses in Muay Thai - he’s literally the hottest KO striker on the planet when it comes to striking arts right now.

He’s 10-0 in ONE and he’s the World Champion, and he has three minutes to knock out DJ,” Sityodtong said.

kasakit,” Pabroa said.

Pabroa added gyms can accommodate vaccinated people while maintaining strict health protocols.

“Lalo na sa Metro Manila, marami na ang nabakunahan. Let them become more fit and healthy para lalong malabanan Even when there are no customers, head trainer Romeo Moderno Jr., maintains the Supina ‘yang virus na yan,” Pabroa reasoned out. Fitness Gym in Malolos, Bulacan. The gym has been closed since COVID-19 struck in 2019, Metro Manila was placed under Gener- but he has made it his home for the meantime. al Community Quarantine Alert Level 4 Meanwhile, fitness trainer Romeo nga ini-ispar (sparring) ko na sarili ko beginning on Sept. 16 and fitness studios Moderno Jr. has been staying at the Su- (para maaliw),” he joked. and martial arts clubs are among those pina Fitness Gym in Malolos, Bulacan He said though that he gets a call from prohibited to operate. since the pandemic struck in 2019. It has time to time from his loyal clients to do pri“Magtu-two years na pero pabalik- been his home which he continues to vate tutorials, under strict health protocols. balik lang ginagawa (na lockdown) na- clean regularly even if it’s not allowed to The social media page Buddy PFroject, kasawa na. Sana isama sa strategy ‘yung accept customers yet. a fitness club that accepts online tutorials, regular exercise and healthy food,” added “Hindi ako pinapalabas dito kaya sa also posted a long narrative of why fitness Pabroa, who is fortunate to cater to loyal gym lang ako palagi, maintenance, linis gyms should be categorized as essential and customers via home service. at disinfect,” said Moderno. “Minsan allowed to operate with limited capacity.

CALVIN Abueva capped a wellexecuted play by scoring the winning basket at the buzzer to push the Magnolia Hotshots to a slim 90-89 triumph over NorthPort Batang Pier in their early afternoon Friday game in the 2021 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup at the Don Honorio Ventura State University Gym in Bacolor, Pampanga.

The 6’3” Abueva knocked in the quick jumper after receiving a pass from Rome de la Rosa as Magnolia pulled off the scrambling win and completed a rally from a 17 point deficit.

The Hotshot improved to to 7-3.

With only one game left in their schedule, the Hotshots remained in contention for one of two coveted twice-tobeat berths in the quarterfinals.

“That’s the designed play, a back screen to Calvin and an alley-oop.

And then, kung wala iyun, ang next option si Paul (Lee),” said Hotshots’ coach Chito Victolero.

Playing for 34 minutes, Abueva finished with 15 points and five rebounds behind Ian Sangalang, who topscored with 26 points and 10 rebounds.

Sangalang drilled in eight points in the last quarter, with his layup off Andy Barroca’s pass in the last 39 seconds allowing the Hotshots to stay in front, 88-87.

A split charity from Kevin Ferrer in the final seconds off Sangalang’s foul found its mark and almost cost the Hotshot the game as the Batang Pier grabbed the lead at 89-88.

“Good thing na-execute. Malaki ang puso ni Rome na ipasa kay Calvin ang bola,” added Victolero.

Barroca and De la Rosa shot 10 points each for the Hotshots, who have joined the TNT Tropang Giga (9-1) in the quarterfinals.

It was Barroca’s floater in the 3:33 mark of the third period which allowed the Hotshots to gain a seven-point cushion, 66-59.

Meanwhile, De la Rosa’s layup in the last 5:07 kept the Hotshots ahead, 82-78.

Batang Pier, with Sean Anthony providing a game-high 16 points, are now on the brink of elimination at 4-5.

To make it to the quarterfinals, Batang Pier need to win six more matches to qualify outright to the next stage.

FIFA poll: Fans want more frequent World Cup LAUSANNE, Switzerland—A majority of football supporters support the idea of a “more frequent” World Cup, according to an online poll published Thursday by FIFA in the midst of a debate on its biennial World Cup project.

According to the IRIS/YouGov study carried out among 15,000 people “with an interest in football”, 55 percent of respondents want to see the top international competition more often than every four years, says football’s world governing body.

The survey showed that 30 percent would like the World Cup to be held every two years, 11 percent every year and 14 precent every three years, a highly unusual frequency in international sport.

The survey nevertheless reveals strong differences according to the geographical areas and the age of the respondents.

The most favourable towards this increased frequency are the “younger generations in all regions” and “devel-

oping markets”, while older football lovers remain attached to the tradition of a four-yearly tournament which has been in place since the first World Cup in 1930.

This finding will be followed by an “expanded” survey of 100,000 people in “more than one hundred countries”.

FIFA’s controversial proposal of a biennial World Cup, first floated in the 1990s, was revived in March by former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, now head of football development at FIFA. The central argument is that a World Cup every two years would create more profits that could be distributed to federations in Africa, Asia and South America, who have a greater reliance on FIFA funds than the wealthy European leagues.

Wenger says the idea would be to have a final phase every summer from 2025-2026, alternating World Cups and continental tournaments like the European Championships and Copa America. Qualifying matches would be grouped

together in October, or in October and March.

However, the plan has been rejected by UEFA, the South American Football Confederation, the World Leagues Forum and the powerful European Club Association, all of whom are already struggling with an overloaded schedule.

The FIFPro players’ union denounced Tuesday “the absence of a real dialogue” on the subject, pointing out the “natural physiological limits” of footballers.

Football fans have also voiced their opposition to the proposal.

“It is legitimate for FIFA to do market research, since it has something to sell,” Ronan Evain, coordinator of the Football Supporters Europe network (FSE).

“But if it wants to consult representative organisations, it knows where to find us.”

Any final decision on the proposal would have to be made by a FIFA Congress, which usually takes place in May. AFP

Pacio to Saruta: You want to break me? Not happening

Joshua Pacio

ON his third showdown with Yosuke Saruta, Joshua Pacio vowed to stay unbroken and keep his fighting spirit intact.

Pacio said this a week before defending his ONE Strawweight World Championship in a trilogy match against Saruta.

Saruta has promised to break Pacio’s psyche on fight night of their strawweight encounter in ONE Championship: Revolution on September 24 in Singapore.

“Iyun ang gusto niyang gawin sa akin, hindi iyun mangyayari,” said the 25-year-old Pacio on Zoom yesterday.

He will be defending his strawweight title for the third time after he disposed of Alex Silva at ONE Championship: Fire and Fury on Jan. 31, winning a very close bout via split decision.

Pacio lost his belt to Saruta at ONE Championship: Eternal Glory on Jan. 19, 2019 in a controversial split-decision.

In a rematch three months later, Pacio, playing at ONE Championship: Roots of Honor in Manila on April 12, scored a sensational fourth-round knockout win with a well-timed knee to regain his lost title.

In that fight, the 5’4” Pacio recalled that he was the one who shook Saruta’s confidence.

“Pagkatapos ko siyang tamaan sa tiyan, tumingin siya corner niya. So at that time, alam ko, na break ko iyung fighting spirit niya,” said Pacio.

The look on Saruta’s eyes, according to Pacio said it all.

This time, Pacio said he will be ready for Saruta, knowing that his Japanese challenger has improved since their last showdown 29 months ago.

The 34-year-old Saruta earned the right challenge Pacio when he beat Yoshitaka Naito at Road to One 3: Tokyo Fight Night on September 10, 2020 via unanimous decision. Peter Atencio

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021

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

Home/Design

Path to WELLness

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EAL estate services and consultancy firm JLL Philippines recently showcased its WELL pre-certification journey for its head office in Makati, as well as for investors, developers, and occupiers.

WELL building standard is an international rating system that advances health and well-being in buildings globally by measuring how human wellness is integrated in the structure.

In its thought leadership webinar, JLL said the pandemic increased the demand among corporate occupiers for a workplace that ensures their employees’ overall health, security, and productivity.

This has put the pressure on investors and developers to build structures that meet international standards. “More than ever, it is vital to start thinking about buildings as a means for preventive healthcare and as a tool to combat work-related health issues,” said Astee Lim, sustainability manager, energy and sustainability services of JLL Asia Pacific.

Pampanga beckons PUEBLO de Oro Development Corporation (PDO) recently upgraded its residential projects in the province of Pampanga. The developer is offering two new house models for the second phase of its Horizon Residences in San Fernando city (Shown here).

Strategically situated in Barangay Del Carmen, the project is within two kilometers from the city’s major establishments and the San Fernando NLEX exit.

Built on a 3-hectare property, the Horizon Residences Phase 2 offers tropical homes in a low density neighborhood with only 90 units.

Horizon Residences Phase 2 offers single detached units with a floor area of 70 sqm, and single attached units with floor area covering 81 sqm.

The units sit on 110 sqm lots. Pueblo de Oro also launched the La Aldea Fernandina II Blue Series (Inset), also in San Fernando. The project has 181 three-storey, or ‘loft’ units, and 96 two storey units.

HOME BUDDIES COMMUNITY. If you went through, or are currently going through your “home improvement” phase during this quarantine lockdown, you’re probably familiar with the Home Buddies facebook group.

More than just a group for interior design enthusiasts, the group has also become a go-to for tips, tricks, and even for sharing home milestones and achievements. The group has grown into a community of over 2.8M members, and with this, a fair share of trending DIYs have been born. One example is the DIY mirror wall (Shown in photo). From tufted to arched mirrors, 2021 has seen a lot of funky and creative mirror projects for that perfect OOTD selfie. A cross between a functional mirror and a cool wall installation are these DIY mirror walls made out of mirror panels of varying shapes and sizes.

PROVINCIAL HAVENS BY AVIDA.

Since the pandemic hit, there has been an increase in interest on properties outside the capital region.

Property developer Avida Land has been promoting a futureproof lifestyle in their provincial properties.

In Cebu, Avida Land has developed two residential condominiums both in the Ayala Land-owned estate, Cebu IT Park.

Avida Towers Cebu and Avida Towers Riala (shown in photo) offer two-bedroom units in these communities, ranging from 52 to 57 square meters. Avida Village Iloilo features houses and lots that range from 30 to 110 square meters. In Mindanao, the Ayala Land subsidiary has attractive residential enclaves at Towers Davao and Avida Towers Abreeza, and the Avida Towers Aspira and Centrio Towers in Cagayan de Oro. For more information about Avida Land, visit its development page on Lamudi.

Southern living lauded

BACK-BACK STEVIE AWARDS FOR FILINVEST. Building sustainable communities recently paid off for Filinvest Alabang, Inc. (FAI) as it took home a Silver Stevie award at this year’s 18th Annual International Business Awards (IBA). Last year, FAI won the Gold Stevie in the Real Estate Category. Stevie award winners were determined by more than 260 executives worldwide who participated in the judging process from July through early August. FAI built the 244-hectare Filinvest City— a complete live-work-play CBD south of Metro Manila which received a LEED Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) v2 Gold Certification from the US Green Building Council. Check out www. filinvestcity.com for more details.

BRENTVILLE International Community recently category of the Asia Pacific Property Awards 2021. bagged an award under the Residential Development The award-giving body honors the best of the best in architecture, interior design, real estate and property development in the region.

Brentville was recognized for its idyllic balance of upscale urban and suburban living. Located at Mamplasan, Binan, Laguna, Brentville includes The Arborage, which offers lot sizes ranging from 200 to 300 square meters.

Meridien, Sunshine Place, West Parc, and Woodmore Spring likewise offer lots ranging from 300 to 1,400 square meters.

These residential clusters have their own amenities and a unique artistic architectural design. Brentville is a self-contained community, and is continuously revitalizing its residential spaces.

Tech & Gadgets

Big game titles, sequels for PS5 teased in PlayStation Showcase

By Nijel Matthew Aquino and John Raphael Mendoza

A

RECENT Sony PlayStation Showcase 2021 revealed a lineup of 16 games for the PS5 console, with some slated for release in the coming months and years.

The 42-minute showcase garnered more than 3.6-million views worldwide on YouTube, while the Twitch stream has over 450K views. The showcase, according to Sony, “included updates from PlayStation Studios and some of the industry’s most imaginative developers, for games releasing this holiday and beyond.”

One of the major titles to be unveiled in Sony’s event was God of War Ragnarök by Sony Santa Monica Studios. God of War Ragnarök continues the story of Kratos and his son Atreus as they initiate the “Ragnarok” or end of days of the Norse gods as the final act of the Norse saga of the series. The game was originally scheduled to be released this 2021 but was delayed due to the pandemic.

Insomniac Games has two games featured in the showcase, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 (sequel for Spider-Man in 2018), and Wolverine. Eyeing a 2023 release date, Spider-Man 2 will feature protagonist Peter Parker and God of War Ragnarök Miles Morales -- a character from the Spider-Man 2020 expansion - against “early development” at the time of the Theft Auto V (GTAV) dropped a new trailer for the game’s re-release for the Venom. The Wolverine title, on the teaser’s reveal.

Meanwhile, Rockstar Games’ Grand PlayStation 5 platform and also featured other hand, was announced to be in LEADING global smartphone brand vivo, after a successful inaugural partnership with global leader in optics and opto-electronics, ZEISS, continues to build on each other’s strengths in advancing mobile photography technology with the newest entrant to the Xseries, X70.

Specifically built to offer the bestin-class smartphone camera that is not only realistic but also exquisite, the vivo X70, launched recently in China, not only takes photos of what you can see but also makes hard-to-take photos easy and more realistic.

“After the successful release of X60 this year, we realized that the market is and has always looked for that smartphone camera that has it all and more and we continue our partnership with ZEISS with the X70 harboring the same mission—to synergize and complement optical expertise and new digital technologies—so both brands can continue to create innovations for mobile imaging and create the next imagery master with the new vivo X70,” said Charisma Buan, vivo Philippines PR team lead.

With its unique ZEISS OpticsZEISS T* Coating, vivo X70 can enhance the visible light pass rate which improves the imaging quality and accurately represent colors while reducing reflections and other negative effects.

Coupled with the Sony Customized

Advancing mobile photography to topnotch levels with vivo X70, co-engineered with Zeiss Sensor IMX766V, the X70 can access 8% more light than other devices, ensuring only the best photos are taken.

True to its reputation as the next imagery master, X70 comes with ZEISS Portrait features that simulates the reproduction of four (4) classic ZEISS shots—Sonar, Biotar, Distagon, and Planar—to give users more fun and flexibility in portrait mode while the ZEISS Portrait 3D-Pop uses a state-of-the-art technology that heightens the three-dimensional portrait atmosphere by presenting a perfect and harmonious blurry transition between the subject and its background.

For those who want to take high-action photos and videos, the X70 also comes with a Gimbal 3.0 sensor for maximum stability.

The new vivo X70 furthers vivo and ZEISS’ vision of furthering the professional mobile photography industry anchored on innovation and creativity.

For more information and new product updates visit www.vivoglobal.ph, and vivo’s official Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages.

Get first dibs on the newest vivo devices on its Lazada and Shopee official stores and its physical stores and kiosks nationwide.

Sunshine Place to open 2nd set of online writing workshops P4,800 for seniors and P6,720 pesos for regular aspirants.

Inquiries can be made through their conSUNSHINE Place, a senior recreation center situated in Makati, has organized another mem- tact nos. 0917-515-5656 or 856-4144.

The success of the first batch oir writing workshop online batch for senior Dina Lucenario, a student from the first citizens and aspiring writers alike.

After a successful outing in July this year, batch of the workshop, said that she learned the center is bringing back the workshop with a number of special things after attending Dr. Gawad Pambansang Alagad ni Balagtas re- Peñaranda’s Memoir Writing Workshop.

“I never expected that I’d be productive cipient, Dr. Oscar Peñaranda. in one month to be able to do probably In an online interview with the Mathe beginnings of a whole book,” she nila Standard, Dr. Peñaranda exsaid in the same online interview. plained his love for teaching memLucenario, a journalism oir writing and his eagerness to graduate-turned lawyer, said it help writers not just in their skills was something she needed in a but also for their mental health transitional period of her life. amid COVID-19 pandemic.

After having setbacks “Memoir is not experience caused by COVID-19, Luceonly. It’s also their reflections nario turned to memoir writing and things they contemplate in hopes of writing down inforabout. In a way, it is an antidote mation she holds dear in her heart. for the pandemic that we have,” Dr. Dr. Oscar’s perception Peñaranda said.

Dr. Oscar of a good memoir He explained that due to the COPeñaranda As the Gawad recipient puts it, VID pandemic, some people feel mentally challenged due to restrictions of memoir writing workshop is more than just heading out. Thus, he said that memoir writ- writing a daily anecdote.

“Your life in words can affect not just you ing is a way to let go of pent up frustrations but others as well,” Dr. Peñaranda said. in a more delicate and knowledgeable way.

Furthermore, it can be a practice for individu“Memoir writing has the same sort of effects with a ritual that releases catharsis in als to practice empathy in such a dreading time.

“It trains you to write in an objective ceryour stress and [fills] human needs,” Dr. Petain way so that in real life, when you see things ñaranda explained.

The workshop started on September 9 and happening, you don’t just involve yourself, but will end on October 14, with sessions hap- you also see things objectively,” he said.

Dr. Peñaranda’s Memoir Writing workpening every Thursdays.

Rates for the workshop ranges from shop is open for all.

By Rommel Bong R. Fuertes Jr.

a brief snapshot of another GTA iteration - GTA Online. Although released last 2013 and 2014 for 3rd and 4th-gen consoles respectively, GTAV’s supposed 2021 release was delayed and is now slated for March 2022.

Meanwhile, here are the games also revealed in the showcase with planned release dates on 2022: Tiny Tina's Wonderland—a fantasy spin-off of Borderlands by 2K Games will be released on March 25, 2022.

Square Enix’s Forspoken, which is a fantasy game currently being developed by Luminous Productions, will be coming to PC and PS5 in spring 2022. The game features a new story with protagonist Frey Holland.

Rainbows Six Extraction developed

by Tom Clancy is set to be released in January 2022. The story continues where Team Rainbow faces a lethal mutating alien threat called the Archaeans who have taken over several regions in the United States.

Naughty Dog’s remastered bundle of Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End and The Lost Legacy will be coming to PS5 and PC in early 2022.

There are also game releases slated for later this year, such as Deathloop on Sept. 14; Alan Wake Remastered on Oct. 5; Guardians of the Galaxy on Oct. 26; and Kid Amnesia Exhibition and Blood Hunt in November.

Other games like Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic Remake, Project Eve, Gran Turismo 7, and Tchia have their trailers shown but have not yet released a confirmed date for their arrival on PS5.

The vivo X70 series, recently launched in China, comprises the X70, X70 Pro, and X70 Pro+ models. The three smartphones are powered by different chipsets (a MediaTek Dimensity 1200 SoC, an Exynos 1080 SoC, and the Snapdragon 888+ SoC, respectively). Photo credits to GizmoChina.

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 rumallari@thestandard.com.ph

W&R, National University of Singapore to host forum on digitalizing PH FOR six years now, the Philippines has topped global rankings for both social media and internet usage.

According to wearesocial, there were 89 million social media users in the Philippines in January 2021.

This is equivalent to 80.7 percent of the total country’s population in January 2021.

Despite being called the social media capital of the world, multiple reports and studies indicate that the Philippines still lags behind its Asia-Pacific neighbors and the rest of the world in terms of digital transformation

Digitalization post-pandemic

Last year, the Philippines had one of the strictest and longest lockdowns in the world, impacting many businesses and accelerating digitalization. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic magnified the significance of the digital economy in supporting economic competitiveness and resilience. Across the Asia-Pacific region, there has been increased movement towards digitalization and ecommerce, including the Philippines. Despite this, however, the prospects of pursuing digitalization have been coupled with constraints including access to affordable technologies, poor access to quality internet, and long-held traditional operation models.

Given those gaps, public affairs and strategy firm W&R and the National University of Singapore-Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, one of the top public policy schools in the world, is organizing a discussion forum and white paper launch entitled: “Digitalizing the Philippines: A White Paper Launch and Discussion Forum” on September 29 at 10 a.m. local time. The forum seeks to facilitate discussion on the policy reforms and industry efforts needed to promote digitalization in the Philippines. Other partners of the forum include Embiggen Consulting, University of Asia and Pacific School of Law and Governance, FEU Tech Innovation Center, Philippine Strategic Forum, and Benilde School of Diplomacy and Governance.

Speakers include policy makers, business leaders, and academics—Sen. Grace Poe, TG Limcaoco, Andrew Williamson, Ricky Banaag, Atty. Allan Gepty, Atty. Randy Echaus, Dr. Bernardo Villegas, Dr. Ed Araral, Dr. Francesco Mancini, and Dr. Robin Michael Garcia—as they seek to answer questions about the value and benefits of the Philippines’ digitalization.

Interested participants may register for the forum at https://www. wradvisory.co/event-registration.

Tech trendsetters, pioneers push digital transformation nationwide AT THE four-part series called “Technology and the Legal Practice'' held from August 13 to September 4 and hosted by Apptitude for the legal community, heavyweights from the government and the private sector discussed the importance of digital transformation for public services, people and the economy.

Opening the series was Supreme Court Justice Jhosep Lopez, who, prior to serving as Justice for the Supreme Court and Court of Appeals, was a prosecutor and chief legal counsel to various national and local elected policymakers.

He opened the series speaking on the importance of adapting to the Digital Age and how the Supreme Court has done this in the midst of the pandemic.

He also acknowledged how innovations, such as Apptitude’s Mandatory Continuing Legal Education certificates on the blockchain, improve transparency and authentication of qualifications.

Also from the public sector, lawmakers Senator Sherwin Gatchalian and Senator Ping Lacson emphasized the importance of technology in improving the delivery of public services.

Senator Gatchalian spoke of how technology has enabled national and lo-

Opening session featuring Supreme Court Justice Lopez, UnionBank SEVP & CTOO Henry Aguda, and Apptitude CEO Mars Veloso

cal government units, such as Valenzuela, to streamline processes and create greater efficiencies in the delivery of public services. He pushed for Senate Bill No. 1793 or the Full Digital Transformation Act for the entire government to adopt the Philippine Digital Transformation Strategy 2022 and provide for the integration of e-government services by end-2022.

Meanwhile, Senator Lacson discussed the legislative agenda on ICT, particularly the passage of the Philippine Identification System, the roll-out of the digital connectivity program, and the expansion of science, technol-

ogy, and innovation initiatives. Both the government and legal community, he said, play a role in marshaling tech adoption to ensure this improves judicial values and results in the efficient delivery of public services.

From the private sector, Apptitude Chief Executive Officer Mars Veloso drew on his depth of experience as CEO of the technology startup, consultant to San Miguel Corporation and widely published thought leader on Technology, ICT and Virtual Property to provide a unique point of view on the future of technology and its impact on public services and the legal community.

Motoring

RAMON L. TOMELDAN Editor

C4 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021

Safe and sound: Skills to master

By Othel V. Campos

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HETHER in the new normal or during the “notso-distant” past, it’s always a good thing to be on the safe side, particularly during the wet and rainy season.

In the 13th edition of Ford Motor Company Philippines’s Driving Skills For Life≠≠≠ (DSFL), well known and respected racing enthusiast and racing school owner JP Tuason reminded the driving population that drivers should always always check under the hood, below the chassis and all other accessories like tires and even the side and rear view mirrors, not withstanding whether the car rarely leaves parking at home or goes out daily for errands or work.

“We definitely need a good refresher for safe driving skills and tips. As we all know, DSFL is a training program that we all need. I think, even if you’re not driving, you’re gonna be rising with someone else and if people are educated properly about road safety, we can avoid accidents on the road,” he said.

The DSFL is one of Ford’s biggest corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs. This years DSFL carries the theme is “Safe Driving in the New Normal”.

While, many people do not leave their homes, still, accidents happen, with a batting average of 178 a day, Tuason disclosed.

“And what is important is to keep in mind that the number one reason of these accidents is what they call human errors,”

Racing school owner JP Tuason offers tips on safe motoring and car care. he noted.

One of the first things to do when checking the health and safety of vehicles, before setting out elsewhere, is to check under the car for leaks. One needs to check if there are fluids leaking; secondly, the tire pressure; and also loose items inside the car.

“Check your sitting position, side mirrors, secure all loose objects like cellphones . Once you dropped your mobile phone, you get distracted for the slightest of seconds and these may cause an accident,” Tuason said.

Another important point in the checklist is the state of tires, which should be change at least every 5 years. Tires are essential for drivers to check regularly because they

are the only things that touch the ground on a vehicle. One can check tires in the gas station. Vehicle owners are advised not to wait until their tires have bolting sidewalls, which is very dangerous.

Modern cars have what you call, tread wear indicators, this allow tires to tread on puddles, during wet season by getting a firm grip on the road.

“When the tread wears down, we have the tread indicator pointing to the thread and when the tread is flushed with this indications, it is not time to replace the tires. It is important to have enough tire tread in rainy conditions, so that when we get into puddles or situations where there is flooding on the road, we don’t aquaplane and lose control of the vehicle,”

Tales of Driving Change

Tuason explained.

He added it will be a a lot helpful for a driver to learn to manage a flat tire on the road, since it may happen that there will be nobody to help out once you get a flat tire.

He also made notes on tips in the “new normal” driving precautions which will help protect the driver and other passengers, should there be.

First tip is use social distancing by asking your passengers to sit at the back or far behind you. Tip 2 is to keep you car and equipment always clean. Tip number 3, wear face masks while driving with other passengers. And lastly, use hood hygiene practices like like using alcohol all the time for the different touch points.

Tuason also underscored how is is

to clean cars following the safety and hygiene protocol.

“Make sure your vehicle is parked in a cool area for the cleaning materials you’ll be using yo be more effective. When disinfecting, double check the ingredients of your materials. Bleach and acetone can damage the interior of your car. Do not spray directly in surfaces like the dashboard. Do a quick wash of regularly touched surfaces like door handles,” he added.

He noted that driver should avoid distractions while driving like texting or talking on the phone, falling asleep, changing the radio station, taking medications and eating or drinking while driving.

In general, Tuason cited 5 key takeaways : keep your vehicle properly maintained; drive within the city speed or limits; use the hands-free technology; avoid accidents at all costs; and keep your cars properly disinfected.

The DSFL has successfully trained over 26,000 drivers since it launched in the country. Over the years, the program has made itself relevant with the changing road conditions, policies, and government regulations. In 2019, over 3,300 public and private drivers participated in the DSFL. The training program has been a consistent recipient of awards in the country. It brought home a Gold award under the Road Safety category in the 4th Driven to Serve Awards by the Society of Philippine Motoring Journalists in 2020.

Driving Skills for Life was established in the United States in 2003 by Ford Motor Company Fund, the U.S. Governors Highway Safety Association, and a panel of safety experts, to teach newly licensed drivers the necessary skills for safe driving beyond what is learned in standard driver education programs.

Fuel up at Caltex and earn up to 5x CLiQQ Reward credits redeemable at 7-Eleven stores nationwide and their online store, CLiQQgrocery. com

CALTEX—CLIQQ partner promo CHANGAN Motor Philippines, Inc. is on a roll to bring Lasting Safety to the emerging market of Filipinos looking to experience premium and future-forward mobility as it pushes its ongoing sales promo.

Under this promo, car enthusiasts and those looking to own their very first car can get their hands on the sleek and stylish sedan of Changan -- the Alsvin -- that’s made to exceed everyday expectations at affordable rates.

Running until September 30, the “Kailangan, Changan” sales promo offers the 1.4L 5MT variant of the Alsvin for only P361 per day, amounting to a net monthly amortization of P10,823 for 60 months, based on its SRP of P579,000 and with a 20-percent down payment of P115,800.

Customers can also drive home the 1.5L 5DCT model of the Alsvin for only P402 per day, equating to a net monthly amortization of P12,051 for 60 months, and with a 20-percent down payment of P127,800.

Moreover, Filipinos can also enjoy the premium Alsvin 1.5L 5DCT Platinum at only P429 per day with a monthly amortization of P429. This is equivalent to a monthly amortization of P12,869 for 60 months after a 20-percent down payment of P135,800.

Road stories: Meet the proud Alsvin owners As a result of the ongoing nationwide expansion of Changan Philippines, more Filipinos are now aboard the brand’s mission of driving change while embracing safe, wise, and practical mobility at the same time.

For Alsvin owner Gina Balinuyos, deciding to buy the Alsvin is as easy as love at first sight. She added that it has been her dream to get her own car and she’s glad that she made the right decision with Changan. “Marami na akong napuntahan na ibang car brands pero Alsvin lang talaga ang nagustuhan ko,” Balinuyos said, sharing that a lot of her friends and relatives have been asking about her Alsvin because of its eye-catching appearance.

Just like Balinuyos, aesthetics is also a consideration for Val Tocalo. He added that he was looking for a car that has a good price, reliability, and practicality, and Alsvin ticked the right "Unbelievably, the Changan Alsvin is very affordable.

Compared to popular brands.

This is echoed by Romeo Nolasco, who described his Alsvin journey as “superb and very satisfying.” “It’s very smooth. ‘Yung features, hindi siya nahuhuli, meron siya kung anong hinahanap mo. Kung ano meron ‘yung mga bagong lumalabas na sedan type, meron din siya.

Pero ang pinakagusto ko talaga ay ‘yung price niya,” Nolasco said. “Hindi mo makikita ‘yung same features sa other sedan na mura and it’s very comfortable to drive,” he added.

Also among the satisfied Alsvin car owners in the Philippines who have experienced Lasting Safety is Neil Hernandez who’s looking forward to bringing his little family to long drives with more peace of mind because of the Alsvin’s safety features. “Sa price range niya, meron na siyang Tire Pressure Monitoring System na nakikita ko lang sa top-of-the line vehicles or ‘yung mga mamahaling sasakyan talaga,” Hernandez said. “Nagustuhan ko rin na nakikita ‘yung average fuel consumption so namo-monitor ko rin ang maganda ‘yung fuel consumption,” he added as he proudly shared that he’s giving his Alsvin a 4.5 out of 5 rating.

The economical yet features-packed Alsvin is also ideal for first-time car owners, as what customer Elmer Autriz testified, lauding his overall fast and convenient experience in owning his Alsvin -- from coordinating with a Changan sales representative to finally getting the car key.“As a first-time car owner, the features of the Changan Alsvin are very easy to understand and easy to navigate. Aside from that, the comfort of driving, nandoon kasi dahil sa leather seats,” Autriz said, adding further that the Cruise Control feature of the Alsvin allows him to enjoy a smooth and steady drive.

CALTEX, marketed by Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), is giving motorists more reasons to fuel up at Caltex stations with its latest promo with 7-Eleven. Starting August 2, 2021, Filipino motorists can earn CLiQQ Rewards Caltex 2021 e-stamps for every fuel purchase at participating Caltex stations by simply presenting their CLiQQ Rewards card upon gassing up.

Every one (1) liter fuel purchase of Caltex Diesel with Techron D, Caltex Silver with Techron or Caltex Platinum with Techron will earn five (5) CLiQQ Rewards Caltex 2021 e-stamps credited to their 7-Eleven CLiQQ Rewards card.

These e-stamps can be converted and redeemed into CLiQQ wallet credits which can be done via the CLiQQ app.

One (1) e-stamp is equivalent to one (1) CLiQQ wallet credit equivalent to PHP1.00. CLiQQ wallet credits can be redeemed used to purchase items from 7-Eleven stores nationwide and CLiQQgrocery.com.

Motorists can do two transactions a day, with maximum of 60 liters of fuel purchase per card. A maximum of 500 liters of fuel purchase a month per card is also allowed. Fuel purchases made via cash, credit card, Caltex StarCash cards and e-wallets are qualified for the promo. Customers with activated CLiQQ cards will receive an SMS

from 7-Eleven indicating the number of Caltex 2021 e-stamps earned.

“We’re always looking for ways to thank our customers for their continued support to Caltex and we’re thrilled to be partnering with 7-Eleven again for another exciting promo,” Billy Liu, CPI Country Chairman and General Manager said. “Now motorists can get five times more CLiQQ rewards for every fuel up at Caltex!”

Caltex and 7-Eleven rolled out its first promo late last year where CLiQQ Rewards card holders earned 2 e-stamps for every 1 liter purchase of fuel by presenting their CLiQQ Rewards card everytime they make a purchase.

“In this time of pandemic, we’re also making it even more convenient for our customers to redeem credits as they can also use their earned CLiQQ wallet credits to shop and pay for grocery items and basic essentials at 7-Eleven stores nationwide or at cliqqgrocery.com at the comfort of their home,” added Liu. Fuel up and earn 5x CLiQQ Rewards promo will run from August 2, 2021 to January 31, 2022 with DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-123775 Series of 2021. CLiQQ Rewards members can convert their collected e-stamps to CLiQQ wallet credits from August 2, 2021 to April 30, 2022. Avail CLiQQ Rewards card at Caltex stations with 7-Eleven branches for only Php10.00.

Bumpy road ahead as Japan bets on self-driving cars WITH an ageing population in need of transport, Japan is betting on autonomous cars, but an accident involving a selfdriving showcase at the Paralympics illustrates the challenges ahead.

Japan is far from the only place with autonomous vehicles on the roads, but its government has set acceleration of the technology as a key priority.

Last year, it became the first country in the world to allow a vehicle capable of taking full control in certain situations to operate on public roads.

The Honda car has "Level 3" autonomy, meaning it can take certain decisions

alone, though a driver has to be ready to take the wheel in emergencies.

The government has changed the law to pave the way for increasingly advanced autonomous vehicles, and the ministry of economy, trade and industry (METI) has plans for 40 autonomous taxi test sites nationwide by 2025.

It's a policy driven by a serious problem: Japan's population is the oldest in the world, and the country is plagued by persistent labour shortages.

"In the cargo and transport sectors, drivers have become older and the shortage of human resources has become

serious," a recent METI report said.

It also warned of "terrible traffic accidents caused by elderly drivers making operational errors".

With demand clear, local automakers have lined up to develop technologies.

Top-selling Toyota plans to run its e-Palette self-driving buses along dedicated roads in the smart city it is building at the foot of Mount Fuji.

The buses ran in the athletes' village during the Tokyo 2020 Games, but the project was briefly suspended after a vehicle hit and lightly injured a visually impaired Paralympian.

The bus had detected the man and stopped, but an operator on board overrode the system.

For Christopher Richter, head of Japan research at brokerage CLSA and an automotive specialist, the incident demonstrates how far the sector has to go.

"People said autonomous is ready for these kinds of controlled communities," but even there "it failed", he told AFP. 'Complicated areas' For rural Japan, autonomous vehicles "will become a necessity", Richter added.

"I can see why it's a priority for the

government, for carmakers... (but) bigscale autonomous driving is probably not coming in our decade."

Japan's automakers admit the time horizon is a complex proposition at this stage.

When Nissan launched tests of its "Easy Ride" self-driving taxis in 2018, it said it expected them to be commercially available from the early 2020s.

But Kazuhiro Doi, the company's global vice president in charge of research, is more circumspect now.

"Social acceptance (of autonomous cars) is not high enough," he told AFP. AFP