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In-person classes on Nov. 15 59 public schools to hold pilot test for five weeks up to Dec. 22

L

IMITED face-to-face classes will begin Nov. 15 starting with 59 public schools, the Department of Education (DepEd) said Wednesday.

Based on the list released by DepEd, four schools are from Luzon, 15 from Visayas, and 40 from Mindanao.

At a Senate hearing, Education Undersecretary Nepomuceno Malaluan said the pilot test of face-to-face classes amid the COV COVID-19 pandemic

was timed with the start of the second quarter of the school year, and would last until Dec. 22.

The in-person classes would then be assessed and the pilot study would end on Jan. 31, 2022.

The department would then evaluate, identify more schools for the Next page

VOL. XXXV • NO. 234 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 •THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2021 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Bongbong files COC, says open to tandem with Bong Go as VP

By Vito Barcelo and Rey E. Requejo FORMER senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) for president Wednesday, but acknowledged that plans to adopt President Rodrigo Duterte as his vice presidential running mate fell through after the Chief Executive announced he was retiring from politics.

Marcos, who is running under the Partido

Lacson, Sotto bid for two top posts before Comelec SENATOR Panfilo Lacson and Senate President Vicente Sotto III formalized their entry into the presidential and vice presidential race in next year’s elections by filing their certificates of candidacy

Cops ordered to stop NPA’s poll extortion PHILIPPINE National Police chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar has ordered all units to spare no effort in stopping extortion activities by the New People’s Army during the election season.

Eleazar’s order followed President Rodrigo Duterte’s warning against communist rebels and political warlords to stay out of the national and local elections next year and that the NPA must be prevented from collecting “permitto-campaign” fees from politicians.

“I would also like to remind candidates not to give in to these illegal activities of communist rebels. Let us do everything to ensure that next year’s elections will be clean and orderly,” Eleazar said in a statement.

He also assured the public that the PNP would be vigilant against communist terrorists and other local threat

(COCs) on Wednesday.

Clad in checkered polos, Lacson and Sotto arrived at the Sofitel Harbor Garden Tent in Pasay City, around 11 a.m.

Lacson will be the standard bearer of the Partido Reporma where he is the chairman while Sotto will run under the

9,868

112,807

38,828

N/A

2,471,282

133

(As of 4 PM, October 6)

NTF eyes annual vaccination drive THE National Task Force against COVID-19 plans to push for an annual vaccination drive against the coronavirus disease 2019, its chief said on Wednesday.

“We are looking at the different phenomena in other countries. Every Monday we are collecting global updates from

Nationalist People’s Coalition, where he serves as president.

The Lacson-Softo tandem was the first to declare they would seek the country’s two highest elective positions.

The two lawmakers have a combined Next page

US leads 6 nations in military drills in PH Sea

Strike groups from the United States, United Kingdom and Japan conduct joint drills in the Philippine Sea over the weekend. US Navy

SIX different navies led by the strike groups of the United States, United Kingdom and Japan conducted military exercises in the Philippine Sea over the weekend.

At least 17 surface ships and over 15,000 sailors from the six countries, including those from New Zealand, The Netherlands, and Canada, participated in the major naval exercise.

The US Navy on Wednesday said two of its carrier strike groups, led by USS Ronald Reagan and USS Carl Vinson, joined UK’s HMS Queen Elizabeth and warships from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Forces.

“This training, which brings together three carrier strike groups, embodies the strong will of the participating Next page

DOJ: Memo to Cabinet on Senate probe not to defy but to protest treatment Guevarra explained that President

By Rey E. Requejo, Maricel V. Cruz Rodrigo Duterte issued the order purand Macon Ramos-Araneta

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2,622,917

Next page Former senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. formalizes his presidential bid at the Sofitel Harbor Garden Tent in Pasay on October 6, 2021. Marcos said he could heal the politically divided, economically fractured, and pandemic-plagued country. AFP

Senator Panfilo Lacson poses with his running mate senator, Senate President Vicente Sotto III, after filing their candidacy for the country’s 2022 presidential race at Sofitel Harbor Garden Tent in Pasay on October 6, 2021. Lacson said a no-nonsense, corruption-free brand of leadership will be the best weapon against syndicates, both inside and outside the government. AFP

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

Federal ng Pilipinas, said he is open to a possible tandem with Sen. Christopher Go, the vice presidential candidate of PDP-Laban.

“I’d be very candid with you,” Marcos said. “The reason why no one filed for vice president under PFP is this – the original plan was for us to adopt [President Duterte] for our vice presidential candidate, but because of the scenario last Saturday we changed our plan and we will consult the party… So that is where it is now.”

“How will we be called just in case?

JUSTICE Secretary Menardo Guevarra said Wednesday the memorandum enjoining the Cabinet officials and employees of the Executive department from attending the Senate investigation on the purchasing of allegedly overpriced medical supplies was not intended to defy the upper chamber’s authority

portedly to protest the manner by which the Senate Blue Ribbon committee conducted its investigation on the matter.

“From where I stand, I view the memorandum issued by the Office of the President not to defy the constitutional prerogative of the Congress to conduct legislative inquiries. Precisely, that’s the Next page

DUTERTE TO SENATORS: I’LL JAIL YOU IF YOU CITE MY MEN IN CONTEMPT

By Jimbo Gulle

refused to cooperate in the chamber’s probe into the government’s purchases PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte warned to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

Continuing his word war with the senators Wednesday night he would send them to prison if they cited his lawmakers, particularly Sen. Richard Cabinet members in contempt if they Next page

PH last in Nikkei COVID index THE Philippines placed last among 121 countries worldwide in Nikkei Asia’s latest COVID-19 Recovery Index that measured infection management, vaccine rollouts and social mobility.

The Tokyo-based news magazine said the Philippines, previously ranked 106th in August, was now at the bottom

COVID NEWS BRIEFS the custom consultative group and we see that there’s a need to hold an annual vaccination cycle – we can’t have this vaccination as a one time, big time program,” said vaccine czar, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., in an interview on the sidelines

of its index with a score of 30.5.

The report came days after Bloomberg released its COVID Resilience Ranking that also put the Philippines at the bottom of 53 countries.

“The Philippines faces a perfect storm in that it’s grappling with the

POLL ROUNDUP DAY 6 OF COC FILING (Number of candidates since Oct. 1) President Vice President Senator

41 9 63

District Representatives 145 Party-list Representatives 124

NEWS / A4

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of the ceremonial vaccination of tourism workers in Taytay, Rizal.

Galvez noted that the NTF was studying the trends in the current global vaccine supply.

The NTF has released its recalibrated national vaccination program for the remaining months of 2021 and until next year, which includes crafting a vaccine Next page

POPE EXPRESSES ‘SHAME’ OVER CLERGY SEX ABUSE WORLD / B2

Source: Comelec

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News

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2021

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Bongbong...

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expansion of the pilot run, inspect sites and conduct dry runs and present their expansion plans to President Rodrigo Duterte in February 2022.

If the proposal is approved, the expanded pilot run of face-to-face classes would begin on March 7, 2022.

With the Philippines one of the last countries to keep schools closed during the pandemic, the President approved limited face-to-face classes in September in areas with a low risk of COVID-19 infection.

The pilot would involve 100 public schools and 20 private schools, covering Kindergarten to Grade 3 students.

The DepEd announced an initial 59 pub-

lic schools from 638 nominated schools.

The department said it would provide “a rolling assessment” every Monday to increase the number of participating schools to 120.

In a statement, the DepEd and the Department of Health said they would work with local government units, school officials, community stakeholders and participating teachers and students in ensuring the safe operation of the pilot test of face-to-face classes.

“Our responsibility for DepEd is to secure areas, the local government units who have given their consent and are prepared to cooperate, the permission of parents, and also the readiness of our own facilities in DepEd for limited face-toface learning. On the other hand, the Department of Health will assess the health side readiness of the school,” Education

Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones said.

The departments said the pilot would focus on four areas: 1) safe operations, 2) teaching and learning, 3) including the most marginalized, and 4) wellbeing and protection.

Under Safe Operations, a maximum of 120 schools (95 elementary schools, five senior high schools, and 20 private schools) will be chosen for the pilot.

These schools must be located at minimal risk areas and passed the School Safety Assessment Tool. LGUs must also express their support with a resolution or letter allowing the conduct of the pilot run in the community.

Participating learners must submit signed consent from their parents, and preferably near the school and without existing comorbidities.

Teachers and school staff who will di-

rectly interact with learners in the pilot run, meanwhile, must be fully vaccinated.

For the Teaching and Learning standards, blended learning will be applied alternately, one week face-to-face and another week distance learning. Class sizes must only be 12 learners for Kinder; 16 for Grades 1 to 3; 20 for Senior High School (SHS); and 12 SHS in TVL workshops/Science laboratories, with a maximum of 4.5 hours stay in school, except for Kindergarten, with a maximum of three hours.

To guarantee the wellbeing and protection of learners and personnel, schools must have a physical distancing-compliant classroom layout and structure, safe school traffic management, protective measures and safety procedures, psychological support, and contingency plans

COVID...

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Duterte...

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security roadmap amid the presence of COVID-19 variants and reformulated booster shots.

“Considering that we only have more or less 30 percent in the vaccination program, we are yet to discuss booster shots, but in our planning, it is part of our six to eight-month vaccination cycle,” he said.

Galvez said the government had set aside vaccine doses for healthcare workers, saying they were ready once the World Health Organization and the Department of Health approved the provision of booster shots to them.

He noted that those healthcare workers who initially received the vaccine doses in March might be the first to receive booster shots “either by November or maybe February.”

Citing the vaccination program in other countries, Galvez said there was a need to push for the giving booster shots in the country.

“We see that, by programming, by the first quarter [of 2022] we can start the third dosing of our healthcare workers,” he said.

The administration of booster shots is still subject to the approval of the DOH, he added.

From the original 70 percent target, the government is now eyeing to complete the vaccination of up to 80 percent of the country’s 110 million population.

To date, the Philippines has administered a total of 47,778,751 doses of the Covid-19 vaccine, with 22,402,105 Filipinos now fully vaccinated while some 25,376,646 are waiting for their second dose.

Gordon, the President said in a taped television address shown last night: “Huwag ninyong hayaan na si Gordon o mga senador na magsigaw-sigaw sa inyo. Pareho lang tayo sa gobyerno.

Hindi naman ninyo ako boy, hindi niyo naman ako subordinate.”

“Ngayon, kung i-cite kayo in contempt, ‘pag nalaman ko, ang ikulong ko ay ‘yung mga senador,” Duterte said.

(Don’t let Gordon or the senators shout

you down. We’re both in government. I’m not your boy [servant], I’m not your subordinate. Now if you’re cited in contempt, once I learn of it, I’ll jail the senators.)

Gordon chairs the Senate Blue Ribbon committee investigating the government’s purchases of personal protective equipment for health frontliners from Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp., which earned billions of pesos in contracts despite having small capitalization.

“I may be wrong, but I have to protect the executive department from the incessant and steady dose of insults com-

ing from the senators,” Duterte said.

The President also chided opposition Sen. Francis Pangilinan for “threatening” his Cabinet and said: “I am warning you – no one will follow you. Not a policeman or army man, because I told them not to cooperate, especially if it is to further give you the power to insult everybody.”

“I am giving this warning to the Senate. Ayaw ko ng gulo (I don’t want trouble). We recognize your power to cite people to help you in aid of legislation.

But your ‘in aid’ may become first aid,” he said.

quite stepping beyond the original purpose and probably dealing with things like a criminal investigation that may properly be handled by the executive department itself through the Department of Justice or through the Office of the Ombudsman,” he said.

Guevarra offered a possible compromise to prevent a deadlock between the Executive and the Senate over the matter.

“I believe that this issue need not come to a head. Reasonable arrangements could be mutually agreed upon so that both the legislative and executive branches could continue to perform their respective mandates,” he said.

The Philippine Bar Association has also criticized Duterte’s directive, arguing that “it upsets our system of checks and balances” and “transgresses the doctrine of separation fo powers” among the three branches of government.

At the same time, the country’s mandatory lawyers group urged President Duterte to recall his memorandum.

“We thus urge the President to reconsider his decision to bar his Cabinet from attending the Senate investigation on the alleged irregularities in the Department of Health spending related to the COVID-19 pandemic program,” the Integrated Bar of the Philippines said in a statement.

“It is only by granting our Congress free access to information that we can empower them to formulate policies that fully reflect the will of our people,” the IBP added.

The IBP stressed that the Supreme Court in 2006 had ruled that “ultimately, the power of Congress to compel the appearance of executive officials… find their basis in the principle of separation of powers.”

It noted that the SC had also declared that “while the executive branch is a coequal branch of the legislature, it cannot frustrate the power of Congress to legislate by refusing to comply with its demands for information.”

Meanwhile, the chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability said his panel would be “fair, balanced and legal” in reporting the findings of its inquiry into alleged irregularities in the procurement of medical supplies for the government’s pandemic response.

Rep. Michael Aglipay of DIWA party-list group said the testimonies of former Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp. regulatory affairs head Krizle Grace Mago on the issue of the government’s procurement of COVID-19 medical supplies would be taken “with a grain of salt.”

Philippine National Police, said his leadership would include a disciplined bureaucracy and the proper use of the national budget to benefit all Filipinos, especially those in remote areas.

He said it is time for Filipinos to get back their dignity and self-respect, but this should start with their leaders.

For his part, Sotto said he and Lacson know the problems that beset the country and know how to fix them.

“Balance the budget, budget reform, bring the money to the people and enhance the fight against illegal drugs by more emphasis on a demand reduction strategy,” he said.

“Victory can only be achieved through God’s grace. We choose to trust Him every step of the way,” he said.

The Cavite-born Lacson served as senator from 2001 until 2013. He was appointed by President Benigno Aqui-

no III as head of efforts to rehabilitate areas devastated by Typhoon Yolanda.

As senator, he co-authored and sponsored Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, which gave government more powers to act against terrorists. Critics have raised concerns over the law’s broad definition of terrorism, even challenging its constitutionality before the Supreme Court.

Lacson also co-authored the Free Irrigation Service Act, which waived irrigation fees for farmers who own eight hectares of land or less, and the Anti-Hazing Law of 2018, which imposed harsher penalties for those proved guilty of hazing.

Sotto, a former comedian and songwriter, has been a senator since 1992.

In the periods where he didn’t work in the legislative branch, he headed the Dangerous Drugs Board. In his early days in politics, he served as the vice mayor of Quezon City from 1988 to 1992.

“We have continued to improve our ability to conduct prompt and sustained operations at sea with a more mobile, agile and f lexible force,” US carrier strike group commander Rear Adm. Dan Martin said in a separate statement.

The UK Royal Navy lauded the operations as a “half a million tons of sea power projection from 6 nations with an equally impressive air wing.”

“Working with our close allies

to develop operating procedures and capabilities while concurrently showcasing the agility of land and carrier-based aviation in the IndoPacific demonstrates our commitment to the region,” said UK carrier strike group commander Commodore Steve Moorhouse.

The United States has been leading “freedom of navigation” exercises in the region to push back on China’s claims to the South China Sea.

more ferocious Delta variant at the same time as it works with an inadequate testing regime and sees disruptions to its economy and people’s livelihoods as the pandemic continues to rage,” Bloomberg said.

Nikke Asia said that while new cases have dropped below 10,000 in recent days in the Philippines, the country still has a low vaccination rate and limited mobility.

And while member-states of Association of Southeast Asian Nations were among the lowest ranked, some neighboring countries have improved their ranking due to their vaccination efforts.

Malaysia’s ranking increased from 115th to 102nd while Indonesia went up from 92nd to 54th.

The index measures the following factors: confirmed cases versus peak case count; confirmed cases per capita; tests per case; total vaccine doses given per capita; new vaccine doses given per capita; share of people who have been fully vaccinated; community mobility; Oxford stringency index; and flight activities.

Earlier, presidential spokesman Harry Roque said it was not surprising that the Philippines fell to last place in the Bloomberg list as rich countries were hoarding vaccines to the detriment of poorer countries.

Roque said the Philippines in “numerous occasions has advanced its position on the universal access to COVID-19 vaccines” because the “pandemic will not end unless the coronavirus is defeated everywhere through vaccination.”

personnel in Bicol region for the successful operation in Sorsogon that resulted in the confiscation of war materials from the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front) as part of our intensified campaign not only to end communist insurgency but also in ensuring the peaceful conduct of elections in May next year,” Eleazar said.

He also asked for the public’s cooperation and urged them to immediately re-

port the presence of suspected NPA rebels or other lawless elements in their areas.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

Earlier on, President Duterte said he wanted to leave office in June next year, after a six-year presidency, with “clean” 2022 national and local elections, especially in his home region.

In a taped television address Mon-

day night, the 76-year-old Duterte said: “What I want, before I leave, is for Filipinos to have a taste of a clean election, especially in Mindanao. I am appealing to the leaders, to all the tribes.”

Duterte also appealed to would-be candidates to keep the conduct of the May 2022 polls peaceful.

He also warned communist rebels and warlords that he would use military and police force should they interfere in the coming national elections.

In-person...

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No restrictions yet on unvaxxed: DOLE

Restricting the movement of unvaccinated people is not yet possible because of lack of vaccines in the country, according to the Department of Labor Employment.

Secretary Silvestre Bello III said restrictions should only be imposed on unvaccinated people if the supply of COVID-19 vaccines in the country was enough to cover everyone.

Bello issued the statement after several business and industry groups called for mobility restrictions for unvaccinated individuals to boost the government’s mass vaccination efforts.

“We are seriously considering issuing an advisory that you need to be vaccinated to be able to go to work,” Bello said.

“But the issue here is, the vaccine supply is not enough. We can talk about that if we already have an ample supply of vaccines, but now it is inadequate,” he said.

PH logs 9,868 cases

The Philippines logged on Wednesday 9,868 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total to 2,622,917.

The DOH failed again to report new deaths as technical issues with the health department’s data collating system persisted.

This marks the second straight day where less than 10,000 cases were recorded as the DOH cited technical issues with COVIDKaya.

Reproduction number continues to drop

The effective reproduction number of COVID-19 cases in the country, now at 0.83, continues to drop, an infectious disease expert said.

In a Facebook post, infectious diseases expert Dr. Edsel Salvaña, who is also a member of the DOH Technical Advisory Group, said the less than one Rt of infections nationwide had a 90 percent confidence interval, from 0.73 to 0.93, an indication of a decrease in cases.

The Rt, the virus’ actual transmission rate at a given time, tracks the number of other people a single infected person is likely to infect. It is a measure of how fast the disease is spreading. Vito Barcelo and Willie Casas

DOJ:...

From A1 reason why this memo zeroed in on a particular inquiry because the Office of the President does not defy the congressional prerogative to conduct inquiries,” Guevara said, in a text message.

“It is a protest on the manner the Senate Blue Ribbon committee has conducted its hearings, which have taken a lot of valuable time from executive officials who are urgently addressing a public health emergency,” Guevarra added.

President Duterte on Tuesday officially directed members of the Executive branch to refrain from attending the hearing of only the Senate Blue Ribbon committee.

Senator Richard Gordon, chairman of the Senate Blue ribbon committee, denounced the memorandum as “unconstitutional” since there were no issues of “national security, executive privilege, and diplomatic discussions as mentioned in the case of Senate vs. Ermita.”

But Guevarra noted that with weeks of hearings, it should be clear already if there are any laws that need to be amended, enacted, or if there are provisions that need to be repealed.

“But the perspective is the inquiry is

Lacson, Sotto...

From A1 42 years of legislative experience and were the principal authors of the AntiTerrorism Act of 2020, the most challenged law in Philippine history.

This would be the second attempt at the presidency for Lacson, 73. He was defeated by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in 2004.

Earlier, Lacson revived the Partido Reporma with Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez, a former ally of President Rodrigo Duterte.

After filing his COC, Lacson said a no-nonsense, corruption-free brand of leadership will be the best weapon against syndicates, both inside and outside the government.

Lacson, who was once chief of the

US...

From A1 countries to realize a free and open IndoPacific. The JMSDF will work closely with allied and friendly navies, which share the same objectives, to respond to global challenges and defend maritime order based on the rule of law,” JMSDF Escort Flotilla 2 commander Rear Adm. Konno Yasushige said in a statement.

Cops...

From A1 groups before, during, and even after the elections.

Eleazar, meanwhile, lauded the police and the members of the Armed Forces who conducted a joint operation that led to the confiscation of war materials in Sorsogon on Tuesday.

“I commend our police and military

Bongbong-Bong?” Marcos said as he acknowledged that a partnership with Go may be forged in the coming days.

“Bong to the third power? Maybe it is possible. We’ll see.”

Marcos was accompanied by his wife, Liza Araneta and his two sons Ferdinand Alexander and Joseph Simon when he filed his COC at the Harbor Garden Tent at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila in Pasay City.

In a Facebook live stream, Marcos on Tuesday announced his plan to run for president in next year’s election after taking his oath as a member of the PFP, a political party allied with the Duterte administration.

In seeking the highest elective office in the land, said he could heal the politically divided, economically ractured, and pandemic-plagued country.

“Join me in this noblest of causes, and we will succeed,” Marcos, popularly known as “Bongbong” and more recently, BBM, said in a threeminute speech.

Marcos said the global pandemic, the Philippines’ greatest test in history, has taught Filipinos that they always need one another during these trying times.

“We must face the challenge as one, as one country, as one people. Together we must work towards a shared vision of our country through COVID and beyond COVID to find a way through this crisis with a common goal of vision to guide us and to lead us,” he said.

“I know that it is this manner of unifying leadership that can lead us through this crisis,” Marcos said.

Marcos said he would come up with a list of senatorial candidates in the next few days.

PFP earlier endorsed Marcos for the 2022 presidential race on Sept. 21, the anniversary of the declaration of martial law by his father, the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, who was toppled by the People Power revolt.

Kilusang Bagong Lipunan (KBL), the party founded by his father, also nominated Marcos as its presidential candidate in next year’s elections.

In August, the former senator said he would run for president if he could muster enough support.

Marcos lost the 2016 vice presidential race to then-Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo by 263,473 votes. He protested his defeat before the Supreme Court, which eventually ruled in Robredo’s favor.

PH...

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News Duterte, Cabinet urged to release SALNs following ‘Pandora Papers’

By Maricel V. Cruz WITH the surfacing of the “Pandora Papers,” a staunch critic of President Duterte on Wednesday dared the Chief Executive and his Cabinet officials to release their statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth (SALN).

Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate said the President and his men must publicly release fully their SALNs in line with the constitutional principle of accountability and transparency for public officials.

“If you are not hiding anything, do not wait till your names are later on included in the Pandora Papers or on other similar exposè on the hidden wealth of the greedy powerful, rich or corrupt persons. The SALN of President Duterte and his entire Cabinet should be made public to prove that they were not enriched themselves while holding public office or had no hidden wealth,” Zarate said.

He cited the case of Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade being one of the Filipino tycoons and government officials cited in the “Pandora Papers” as reported by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) and Rappler.

The “Pandora Papers” are leaked documents detailing offshore accounts of presidents, heads of states, businessmen, celebrities, billionaires, etc.

“Sec. Tugade, for instance, claimed that he declared his offshore companies in his SALN yet he did not list down the details, not even the names of these companies,” said Zarate.

Zarate added that “for full transparency, it would be even better if they also sign a waiver to have their bank accounts scrutinized aside from releasing their SALNs.” The Bayan Muna lawmaker added that “as it is now, people cannot be blamed for thinking that Duterte and his cohorts enriched themselves in power and that is why they are hiding of their SALNs up till now.”

Buy-bust operations yield more than P5.6m worth of shabu in Manila

By Willie Casas OPERATIVES of the Manila Police District (MPD) seized more than 800 grams of suspected shabu worth more than P5.6 million in anti-drug operations in San Miguel and Tondo early this week.

Police arrested a woman in a buybust operation in her house in Brgy.

648, San Miguel on Monday night.

The MPD said seven transparent plastic bags and nine transparent plastic sachets containing suspected shabu estimated at 735 grams and worth about P5 million were seized from the female suspect.

Six other people were arrested in a separate operation in Tondo early morning Tuesday.

Police confiscated about 100 grams of suspected shabu from the suspects, with a street value of P680,000.

Authorities declined to provide details of the suspects’ drug-selling activities, saying they are still conducting follow-up operations on the suspects’ cohorts.

The suspects will face charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2021 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

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NBI agrees to probe 154 cops in deadly anti-drug operations

By Rey E. Requejo

T

HE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has agreed to further probe and conduct a case build-up on the possible criminal culpability of 154 policemen involved in antiillegal drug operations where deaths of suspects occurred.

This came after the Department of Justice met with NBI officer-in-charge Eric Distor on Tuesday purportedly to brief the NBI about the DOJ review panel’s findings on the 52 cases turned over by the Philippine National Police.

In a text message, Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Menardo

Guevarra said “The NBI readily accepted the responsibility and undertook to buckle down to work immediately, using the 52 PNP case files as starting point,” Guevarra said.

Guevarra also said “it was also agreed that the NBI and the PNP would establish a mechanism to conduct joint investiga-

tions of so-called ‘nanlaban’ cases in the future,” Guevarra added.

According to the DOJ chief, the CHR will be engaged as the need arises, especially in the matter of coordinating with the victims’ families and their witnesses.

Guevarra said the NBI and the PNP will draft a formal agreement allowing them to conduct collaborative efforts of investigating so-called “nanlaban” cases.

The Spanish government meanwhile asked the DOJ to ensure that justice is served to its citizen Diego Lapuente who was killed during an illegal drugs opera-

tion conducted by the police in Siargao Islands on January 8, 2020.

Guevarra said that the ambassador of Spain in the Philippines went to see him twice about the case of Lapuende “which had caught public attention in Spain.”

Last September 17, a murder charge was filed with the DOJ against policemen of the General Luna Municipal Police Station. This is one of the 52 cases turned over to the DOJ. Further, House of Representatives Deputy Minority Leader Carlos Isagani Zarate called on the DOJ not to limit the filing of charges to the 154 policemen.

With Maricel V. Cruz

PAREX project will not impact Intramuros—Ang

BUY-BUST. Authorities seized more than P5.6 million worth of shabu and arrested 7 suspects in combined buy-bust operations in Manila early this week. The suspects were presented to Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso. Norman Cruz

Noceda dismissed over Parojinog sexual assault case THE former chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Service Unit has been dismissed from the service for sexually assaulting former Ozamiz City vice mayor Nova Princess Parojinog who is detained at the facility.

“Regarding Lt. Col. Jigger Noceda, he was dismissed from the service through a decision dated March 25, 2021. He filed an MR (motion for reconsideration), which was denied on June 13, 2021. He has a pending appeal to the NAB (National Appellate Board) of the Napolcom (National Po-

lice Commission). His present status is dismissed from the service pending his appeal,” said PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Wednesday.

The Napolcom would facilitate the resolution of appealed administrative cases and permanently remove from service those found corrupt and abusive, Eleazar said.

In October last year, the PNP Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC) filed charges of rape, acts of lasciviousness, unjust vexation, and a

violation of the Safe Spaces Act before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office against Noceda.

Based on her affidavit, Parojinog said she was sexually assaulted by Noceda in two instances—on June 9 and on September 7, 2020.

Parojinog was detained at the PNP Custodial Center on drug and illegal possession of firearms charges following the raid by the local police in their residence in July 2017. Her father, then Ozamiz City mayor Reynaldo Parojinog and 14 others were killed during the raid.

THE planned Pasig River Expressway (PAREX) project will not impact heritage sites in Manila, San Miguel Corporation president Ramon S. Ang said.

Ang said the PAREX project takes into full consideration the presence of historical sites along its alignment-even as he cautioned against the misinformation being spread to undermine the many benefits of the project to the greater number of Filipinos, even this early in its development.

According to the executive, among “the lies and miconceptions being spread about the project is that it will impact heritage sites, such as Intramuros.”

“We’re a free country, and we respect everyone’s right to voice their opposition. In fact, after setting the record straight on some issues, we’ve largely let the critics do all the talking. We listen to valid opinions and points, but we just can’t let outright lies pass,” Ang said.

An illustration of the supposed alignment of PAREX showed that it runs alongside Intramuros and historical sites was spread in social media. The image was said to have come from PAREX as presented to media.

“False. The image did not come from us. For the record, per the basic alignment developed in consultation with, and approved by the government, PAREX will not run on the Intramuros side, but on the other side, along Binondo,” Ang said.

“By placing the alignment on the other side, we can avoid any significant impact on Intramuros, and actually use the PAREX to showcase our heritage sites to users, including tourists. The area will also become more accessible to more Filipinos, via the planned Bus Rapid Transit system,” said Ang.

Pampanga, Bulacan top cops reassigned

By Jess Malabanan

A WEEK FOR THE ELDERLY. Two senior citizens read newspapers during a break from tending their stall in Divisoria Market on Wednesday. The country celebrates “Elderly Filipino Week” every October 1 to 7. Danny Pata

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO—The police chiefs of Pampanga and Bulacan have been reassigned as part of a revamp.

Central Luzon police director BGen. Valeriano T. De Leon initiated a major revamp affecting two police provincial directors namely Police Colonel Thomas Ibay (Pampanga), and Police Colonel Lawrence Cajipe (Bulacan).

The reassignments came ahead of the Commission on Election (Comelec) ban.

The movement or transferring of officers is not allowed 6 months before the May polls.

Ibay was replaced by his classmate in the Philippine National Police Academy (Class of 96) Colonel Roberto King Sarmiento, former chief of police of Paranaque City.

Ibay formally relinquished his post during

Cebu Pac says more destinations ease travel requirements

By Joel E. Zurbano CEBU Pacific Air announced on Wednesday that six destinations in the airlines’ network have eased their travel requirements.

Local government units in Cebu, Pagadian, Negros Occidental, Guimaras, Tacloban, and Butuan are no longer requiring air travelers to bring COVID-19 RTPCR (reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction) or Antigen test results.

“We are encouraged by the efforts of these LGUs to open up their borders and simplify travel requirements. We share the goals of the national government that we do not contribute to the spread of the virus, by implementing a safe and risk-based approach to travel,” said Candice Iyog, CEB vice president for

marketing and customer experience.

Travelers going to Cebu Province must present a medical certificate stating that they do not exhibit symptoms of COVID-19 issued within 24 hours of arrival in Cebu.

Those bound for Pagadian City are required to present a valid government-issued identification card, which states that their address is in Pagadian City, while transiting passengers do not need to present any requirement.

The four other destinations—Negros Occidental (except Bacolod City), Guimaras, Tacloban and Butuan—accept vaccination cards of fully-vaccinated persons as travel requirement for entry.

A passenger is considered fully vaccinated at least 14 days after having received the second dose in a two-dose series, or at least 14 days after having received a single-dose vaccine.

In Negros Occidental, the other requirements include a travel coordination permit (TCP) from S-Pass and complete registration to StaySafe.ph. In Guimaras, TCP from S-Pass is also being required.

Travelers bound for Tacloban must register under the “Balik Tacloban Project” through www.baliktacloban.tacloban.gov.ph. Passengers may also present a certification of Quarantine Completion with vaccination status in securing an Acceptance Letter when traveling to Tacloban City In Butuan, the LGU require passengers to bring TCP from S-Pass, and upload a valid, governmentissued ID on the system. For passenger bound for cities or municipalities outside Butuan City, he or she must show approved Travel Pass-Through Permit (TPP) from S-Pass.

simple turn-over rites held at the Bale Katimawan situated within the compound of the provincial police headquarters.

Ibay was reassigned to the National Capital Region Police Office–Eastern Police District as chief of the regional staff.

Cajipe on the other hand was replaced by Colonel Manuel M. Lukban, Jr., in an acting capacity. Lukban was formerly the head of Regional Investigation at Camp Olivas before he was re-assigned to NCRPO. Lukban served as chief of police of Malolos City and in Makati City Cajipe will assume the post of chief regional staff stationed at PRO3 headquarters.

De Leon meanwhile said the movement has nothing to do with the upcoming elections but a career advancement of some personnel whose promotion and assignments are due.

Manila

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES Standard COMMISSION ON APPOINTMENTS

TODAY

ANNOUNCEMENT President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has submitted to the Commission on Appointments (CA) for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of: Department of Foreign Affairs Ms. SHIRLEY LIWANAG FLORES as Foreign Service Officer, Class I The public may submit any information, written report, or sworn/notarized complaints or oppositions to the above nominations in seven (7) copies to the CA Secretariat, 6th Floor, PNB Financial Center, D. Macapagal Blvd., Pasay City, Metro Manila.

For the schedule of the public hearings, the CA Secretariat can be reached through telephone numbers 8834-2713, 8831-1824, 8831-0527, 8832-9830, 88342706 and 8551-1989.

6 October 2021.

HECTOR A. VILLACORTA Secretary (MS-OCT. 7, 2021)

Former Defense chief, ‘Ka Leody’ open bids for president too FORMER Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzales and longtime anti-Marcos activist Leodegario “Ka Leody” de Guzman on Wednesday filed their certificates of candidacy (COCs) for president in the 2022 elections.

Gonzales, who also served as National Security Adviser under the Arroyo administration, will run under the Partido Demokratiko Sosyalista ng Pilipinas (PDSP).

Labor leader De Guzman is running under Partido Lakas ng Masa, a Commission on Elections-accredited political party that is also fielding a senatorial candidate, lawyer Luke Espiritu, and running under the party-list system.

In a brief speech, Gonzales said he aims to change the “rotten” political system in the country, citing his almost decade-long stint in the government. “ In my almost a decade in government service, I saw how important it is the kind of politics and politicians we have,” he said. “ I can see that many will join me in going across the country and saying that it’s time to change the rotten politics in our country.”

Gonzales, who described himself as a social democrat, said there may be a need to amend the country’s Charter to change the old political system.

Saying there is much to be improved in the Duterte administration’s COVID-19 response, Gonzales said he wants to see scientists and members of the medical community “to be given the upper hand.”

Accompanied by hundreds of workers and supporters, “Ka Leody” is the presidential candidate of Laban ng Masa, a coalition of Left and progressive organizations and individuals united on a common platform with a socialist direction.

Born to a peasant family, De Guzman is a former garments worker and current chairperson of the Bukluran ng Mangggawang Pilipino (BMP), one of the country’s largest labor groups.

His decision to run for the presidency has been described by supporters as a “historic first”: he is the first socialist and working-class candidate for the presidency since 1946 and he has vowed to challenge what he calls “elite rule” and “trapo politics.”

In his statement at the Comelec, Ka Leody decried the marginalization of workers in national politics despite the crucial role they play in the economy.

“Oras na para marinig, mapakinggan at masunod ang boses at kapasyahan ng milyon-milyong manggagawa,” he said.

Caloocan mayor runs for Congress; Aiko for councilor

By Jun David and Rio N. Araja CALOOCAN City Mayor Oscar “Oca” Malapitan has formally filed his certificate of candidacy as the city’s first congressional district representative for Election 2022.

Malapitan filed his COC with Councilors Obet Samson and Dean Asistio, who will run for representatives of the second and third districts, respectively.

Before filing his candidacy, the mayor accompanied the entire Aksyon at Malasakit Team in submitting their COCs led by his son, mayoralty candidate and current first district Rep. Along Malapitan, and vice mayoralty bet Councilor Karina Teh. In Quezon City, actress Aiko Melendez and actor Bobby Andrews on Wednesday filed their COCs for councilors in District 5 and 4, respectively.

“I and (Zambales) Vice Governor Jay (Khonghun, her boyfriend) have talked and said that I am more needed to serve at a local post. If I would run for a national post, it would appear that I am ignoring my gratitude for the people that voted me for a local position,” she told the media.

Earlier, Melendez announced she would join the congressional race in District 5. She had served nine years as councilor for District 2.

Andrews, meanwhile, filed his candidacy for councilor under Team Panalo, along with ex-councilor Marvin Rillo, who is running for Congress.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2021 E-mail: mst.daydesk@gmail.com

News

Akbayan picks Leni, urges VP to file candidacy for president POLL ROUNDUP A

By Rio N. Araja

DAY before Vice President Leni Robredo’s “important announcement,” personalities from the Akbayan party-list on Wednesday urged her to run for the 2022 presidential race.

Its first nominee, Perci Cendaña, spearheaded the call for the Vice President to seek the highest post in the land.

The group’s members tied pink ribbons along Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City.

Cendaña said the party-list is hoping Robredo would heed the call of her supporters.

“We cannot settle for a lesser evil candidate or a mediocre one. What we need is someone who we are sure of that could stand up against the killings, violence, corruption against dictatorship and Duter-

tismo,” he said.

Cendaña said they have remained unfazed by poor survey results of the Vice President.

“Akbayan si Leni” was the resounding cry of the leaders of the party as they publicly endorsed the Vice President.

In an activity in Quezon City to send off their nominees who will file their 2022 certificates of candidacy (COC), the Akbayan leaders said that Robredo is the “genuine democratic alternative… (to) thwart the complete return of the Marcoses to power and return the country to the

RACE IS ON.

Filing their certificates of candicacy on Wednesday are (clockwise from bottom left) reelectionist Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, DPWH Secretary Mark Villar for senator, Honey Lacuna and Yul Servo Nieto for Manila mayor and vice mayor, Las Pinas Mayor Mel Aguilar for reelection, and the Abalos family - MMDA Chairman Benhur supporting wife Menchie, who is sliding down to Vice Mayor in favor of her father-in-law, former Mandaluyong mayor and Comelec chief Benjamin Abalos. Lino Santos, Danny Pata, Manny Palmero and Norman Cruz

NTC orders probe into text blasts promoting Bongbong THE National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has ordered an immediate investigation into the emergency text blasts promoting former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., as telco companies have said the alert did not come from them.

NTC Deputy Commissioner Edgardo Cabarios told GMA News Online that the commission “has directed our regulation branch to investigate this sending an emergency alert, when it’s not actually an emergency.”

The alert says: “Buong Buo and Malasakit sa Bansa. Buong Buhay and Maialay sa taong bayan. Bagong Bukas na Masagana para sa masa. Babangon Muli ang Pilipinas (V) BBM sa bansa. BBM sa taong bayan, BBM sa Masa... BBM Pilipinas #BBM2022”

Various cellphone users in the area received the alert after Marcos Jr. filed his certificate of candidacy for president for the 2022 elections at the Harbor Garden Tent at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila in Pasay City on Wednesday.

Marcos chief of staff and lawyer Vic Rodriguez said they supported NTC’s “swift action.”

“The illegal use of the emergency blast was done at a time when Bongbong Marcos was filing his CoC and is viewed as among the many demolition jobs unleashed by those who obviously want to frustrate his candidacy,” he said.

“BBM and his family received similar alert notifications. We should not tolerate any group or groups’ underhanded moves to trivialize this very special tool meant to forewarn every

single Filipino of an impending, actual, or post-disaster event or scenario,” Rodriguez added.

“To those behind this despicable deed, we appeal that you do not please mess with a functioning government system that is purposely meant to save lives just so you may advance your agenda of derailing the candidacy” of Marcos Jr., he added.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) also denied any hand in the emergency alert, as it only learned about the alert from the media, said Executive Director Ricardo Jalad.

“I really don’t know how it happened.

That particular message did not come from the NDRRMC,” he said in a text message to ABS-CBN News.

FORGE AHEAD execs rally behind Domagoso banner

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

BACOLOD BETS. The candidates of Grupo Progreso, led by Mayor Bing Leonardia, hear Mass at the San Sebastian Cathedral on Wednesday before filing their Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) at the Bacolod Comelec Office in the afternoon. Bacolod PIO

RevGov Movement pledges support for Sara Duterte as president THE People’s National Coalition for Revolutionary Government and Charter Change (RevGov) has appealed to Mayor “Inday” Sara Duterte-Carpio to reconsider her decision to run for reelection as Davao City mayor and instead file her Certificate of Candidacy for President to pursue the reforms started by her father, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

In an interview at the Broadcasters’ Forum OnLine, former Makati Vice Mayor Bobby Brillante, RevGov Secretary-General, said there is a general consensus in 81 provinces and 14 regions to stand down activities leading to the declaration of a revolutionary government “to give peace a chance and support Mayor Inday Sara’s run for President.”

Brillante was joined in the interview by Professor Punduma Sani, RevGov Vice

path of democracy.”

Prominent party figures at the event were Cendaña, Senator Risa Hontiveros, former Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Chairperson Etta Rosales, and former National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) Secretary Joel Rocamora.

“Filipino voters no longer have to settle for ‘pwede na’ candidates among the crop of former tyrant enablers, or watch helplessly as they fall prey to the schemes of truly evil leaders such as the Dutertes and Marcoses of this world,” Cendaña said.

Cendaña added that Akbayan has a long and productive history of working with Robredo.

“Our own history of working with VP Leni goes back over many years. Her late husband Jesse, himself a model public servant, was a strong ally of Akbayan’s local government and youth leaders during President Noynoy Aquino’s administration.”

Chairman for Mindanao. Sani is a Member of Parliament of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and Vice Chairman for Military Affairs of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

Also present at the interview was RevGov Chairman for Cordillera Mailed Molina of the Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (CPLA), Dr. Joaquin Ostrea of the Solid North Coalition for Revolutionary Government, and Engr. Mario “Boy” Lazaro of Southern Luzon Solidarity for Revolutionary Government and Charter Change.

Among the presidential aspirants who have declared their intention to run, including those who already filed their COCs, “it is only Sara Duterte who possesses qualifications of a strong leader

with unblemished record in public service, proven dedication to serve the poor and the oppressed and with unquestioned honesty and integrity,” they said.

“That is the leader this country needs and that is the President the people want,” the RevGov speakers stated.

“With Sara Duterte we have a better probability of transforming our form of government to federalism, giving more autonomy and power to local government units and decentralizing the vast powers of the President under the present unitary system, dismantle monopolies, spread the development to the countryside, allow equal opportunity to do business in private and in public sectors, and finally, democratize the national economy to achieve economic democracy for all Filipinos,” Brillante added.

A GROUP of former government senior officials from different administrations have thrown their support behind Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso’s 2022 presidential bid.

Calling itself FORGE AHEAD (Former Government Executives’ Alliance for Heroism and Democracy), the group is composed of former undersecretaries, assistant secretaries, chairpersons and commissioners of various offices, as well as former senior directors.

Led by lawyer Raoul Creencia, former Government Corporate Counsel and Transportation Undersecretary, members of FORGE AHEAD met with Domagoso last September 29 and had a long and productive discussion on the mayor’s thoughts about various government policies.

Dr. Willie Ong, Mayor Isko’s running mate, was also present in the meeting.

Meanwhile, Domagoso yesterday warned those involved in illegal drugs and other lawless elements to stay their illicit activities in his turf.

He acknowledged an increase in illicit drug operations during election season and ordered them to get out of Manila “as they will be busted, and authorities will catch them.”

He also directed Manila Police District officials to watch out for illegal drugs that usually flood the market during this time.

Senators file COCs, Mark Villar does too

SENATE Majority Leader Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri has joined the ranks of senators seeking reelection in next year’s elections.

“I am running as an independent. I filed as an independent,” said Zubiri after he filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) at the Sofitel Harbor Garden Tent Wednesday morning.

Senator Joel Villanueva followed suit, saying he filed his COC on the same day he resigned as Director General of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) six years ago. October 6 is also the birthday of his father, evangelist and CIBAC party-list Rep. Brother Eddie Villanueva.

Meanwhile, Mark Villar, who has resigned as Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary, also formalized his senatorial bid as he filed his COC. Villar, who was accompanied by his wife Diwa party-list Rep. Emmeline Aglipay-Villar, is the first Duterte Cabinet member to step down ahead of the upcoming polls.

Sen. Risa Hontiveros has already filed her COC, while Sen. Francis Pangilinan was supposed to file his but deferred it due to the request of Liberal Party mate Vice President Leni Robredo.

Macon Ramos-Araneta ••••

Mandaluyong solon files for reelection

DEPUTY Speaker Neptali Gonzales II on Wednesday filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) for reelection as representative of the Lone District of Mandaluyong City.

A veteran legislator and husband of former Mandaluyong City Rep. Queenie Gonzales, he said providing a better healthcare system and job generation for his constituents are among his top priorities in the incoming 19th Congress.

“I will relentlessly pursue the continuity of my compassionate and responsive programs to the needs of my constituents and betterment of Mandaluyong City in this time of COVID-19 (coronavirus disease-19) pandemic,” Gonzales said in a statement.

He served as Majority Leader during the 11th, 12th, 15th and 16th Congresses, and holds the distinction of having served the House of Representatives as Majority Leader for the longest period.

Gonzales, a stalwart of the National Unity Party (NUP), filed his COC, through his chief of staff Al Abainza, at the Commission on Elections National Capital Region office in Manila at 8:46 a.m. Wednesday, and was received by Election Assistant II Jose Burgos Jr. The Gonzaleses also attended the physical filing of COCs of other candidates in their ticket, including Mandaluyong City Mayor Carmelita Aguilar Abalos (running for vice mayor) and former Comelec chairman Benjamin Abalos Sr. (running for mayor) at the local Comelec office in Mandaluyong City.

Maricel V. Cruz ••••

Barzaga launches bid to stay in post

NATIONAL Unity Party (NUP) President Elpidio Barzaga Jr. on Wednesday filed his certificate of candidacy for reelection as representative of the Lone District of Dasmariñas City, Cavite.

Barzaga, chairman of the House committee on natural resources, vowed “to continue the delivery of an improved healthcare system, peace and order and generate jobs” as among his priorities in this time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am committed to continue serving my district through our compassionate projects. We have to further improve our healthcare programs to fight the pandemic and immediately respond to the needs of my constituents, including livelihood projects,” Barzaga, a CPA-lawyer and veteran lawmaker, said.

“I want to continue the programs I have already started and see to the implementation of plans that have been drafted for a more progressive Dasmarinas.”

Barzaga is well-loved by his constituents primarily due to his effective and clean governance and his pro-poor programs, including free hospitalization at the Pagamutan ng Dasmariñas, free burial service and cremation, among other compassionate projects.

He also served as mayor of Dasmariñas before, the post presently occupied by his wife, reelectionist Mayor Jenny Austria Barzaga. Maricel V. Cruz

Opinion Welcome to the opposition, enablers

AN EXTENSIVE change has taken place in the landscape of the Senate of the Philippines during the past year, more particularly during the last few months.

From the start of the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte to the end of 2020 - a span of four and a half years the upper chamber of the 18th Congress was made up of two groups, to wit, the super-majority, composed of senators sympathetic to or tolerant of Mr. Duterte, and the small band of Liberal Party Senators.

Today the Senate is made up of three groups: The senators fiercely loyal to or still tolerant of President Duterte, the Liberal senators, and the neooppositionist Senators.

There were five Liberal senators at the beginning of Mr. Duterte’s term - Franklin Drilon, Francis Pangilinan, Antonio Trillanes IV, Risa Hontiveros and Leila de Lima. But Mr. Trillanes left the Senate in 2019.

The neo-oppositionists are 2022 Presidential candidates Panfilo Lacson Jr and Manny Pacquiao, Vice Presidential candidate Vicente Sotto III and Rodrigo Duterte’s current favorite punching-bag, Richard Gordon. The rest of the 23 senators are still members of the super-majority.

The transformation of the Senate, and the recent movement of some super-majority members away from President Duterte, has added a new word to the lexicon of contemporary Philippine politics: enablers. Enablers is the name that true-blue oppositionists and independent observers are calling the oppositionists. Although Senators Lacson, Sotto, Gordon and Pacquiao have been welcomed into their ranks, the true-blue oppositionists feel that due account should be taken of the fact that from 2016 to 2020 the neo-oppositionists kept largely quiet while Rodrigo Duterte pursued his misguided and divisive

policies. The critics say that had the neo-oppositionists raised their voices in the criticism or rebuke, Mr. Duterte would not have been able to pursue those policies - rampant EJK (extrajudicial killing), subservience to China, inaction on the Philippines’ South China Sea arbitral award, coddling of erring officials etc. - with complete freedom of action. Without criticism or rebuke, Rodrigo Duterte felt enabled.

Without criticism or rebuke, Rodrigo Duterte felt enabled.

This is not to say that the neooppositionists - the enablers- never raised their voices in criticism of, or opposition to President Duterte’s policies. Panfilo Lacson was sometimes critical of Malacanang or nationalbudget and foreign policy issues. Senate President Sotto took Mr. Duterte to the Supreme Court on the question of the need for Senate participation in the abrogation of treaties. In recent months, Manny Pacquiao called Mr. Duterte’s attention to the continued high incidence of corruption in the government.

But it is Richard Gordon who has really established his credentials as an oppositionist, albeit of the new variety. With his Blue Ribbon Committee’s dogged pursuit of the Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corporation malefactors. The former SBMA (Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority) chairman has scored a multitude of points for the government -- and incurred the eternal ire of Rodrigo Duterte. The Chief Executive will never forget Richard Gordon’s statement that he seemed to be lawyering for Pharmally.

Whether or not their opposition to Rodrigo Duterte has come late in the day does not matter much. What is important is that they are now opposed to President Duterte and his administration. Welcome to the opposition, Ping Lacson, Tito Sotto, Dick Gordon and Manny Pacquiao.

IN FOUR months, the COVID-19 pandemic will reach its second year.

We have gone through so much as a nation in combating this pandemic. It caught us by surprise as it revealed gaps in terms of our health care system and government response.

By now, we fairly have an idea of the competencies, skills, and experiences of our public officials. We have seen the priorities, strategies, and policies adopted by government leaders, both local and national. We have seen the speed and efficiency of their programs. We have seen how much they value public service and public welfare.

We deserve a leader who is prepared to steer our nation during these uncertain times.

This week, aspirants for national and local elective positions file their certificates of candidacy before COMELEC offices. By tradition, this marks the unofficial start of the campaign period as candidates become subject to public scrutiny.

In examining the candidates, I fervently hope that the public looks beyond the campaign jingles, speeches, and election promises.

There have been several studies on

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mst.daydesk@gmail.com

EDITORIAL

Facing the Facebook facts

I

T WAS ironic that the country’s largest telecommunications provider felt the need to issue an advisory Monday to explain that the six-hour global outage that hit millions of users of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp was not its fault.

“We wish to clarify that the said service interruptions were not caused by a PLDT network outage as other sites and online services remained accessible throughout the duration,” the advisory posted on Twitter said.

Whoever issued that advisory was probably unaware that some PLDT subscribers did, in fact, suffer a loss of internet and phone service that started at midnight Monday and lasted 12 hours-twice as long as the Facebook outage.

Still, the advisory emphasized the major role that Facebook and its other social media platforms play in the lives of millions of Filipinos This influence was noted as early as 2019, when the Social Weather Stations (SWS) found that 21 percent or one in every five Filipinos—about 13.9 million people—used Facebook as their source of news. This was more than the 15 percent or 9.7 million adults who consumed news by listening to radio, and far more than the 2 percent or about 1 million who got their news from daily newspapers.

Television, the survey results showed, was still the top source of news in the country for 60 percent of adults or about 40 million people.

Of about 30.4 million Filipino adults who have at least one social media account, 31 percent or about 9.4 million people “like” or promote political or social issues-related posts shared by others.

Meanwhile, 14 percent use social media to follow political figures, 6 percent post their own thoughts on political or social issues, 5 percent repost political or social content shared by other users,

and 4 percent share links to political stories. Only 2 percent use social media to “encourage other people to take action on important political or social issues” while 1 percent urge other people to vote.

The survey also found that Facebook is the most popular social media site in the Philippines, with 99 percent of adults who use the internet or about 30.3 million individuals using the platform. Youtube, Instagram, Twitter, and Viber trail, respectively.

Internet trolls have been using this to tarnish reputations and to bully those who take an opposing point of view on hotbutton issues.

All this influence should fuel concern among policymakers, given the recent revelations of a former Facebook employee, Frances Haugen, who testified before the US Senate that “Facebook’s products harm children, stoke division, and weaken democracy.”

“The company’s leadership knows how to make Facebook and Instagram safer but won’t make the necessary changes because they have put their astronomical profits before people,” said the whistleblower, who released tends of thousands of pages of internal research and documents that showed the company was aware of various problems

caused by its apps, including Instagram’s potential “toxic” effect on teenage girls.

“Thirty-two percent of teen girls said that when they felt bad about their bodies, Instagram made them feel worse,” Facebook’s own internal research showed. “We make body image issues worse for one in three teen girls.”

Haugen isn’t the first former employee to come forward with troubling details about Facebook.

In August 2020, Yael Eisenstat, a former CIA analyst, diplomat and national security adviser at the White House who worked at Facebook as the head of its elections integrity operations for political advertising, spoke at a TED Talk about how Facebook algorithms were poisoning the prospects of reasoned discourse by appealing to people’s worst instincts and weaknesses and sowing hatred, all in the name of “user engagement” that would keep people on the website longer.

Closer to home, we have seen how Facebook and other social media have been used by internet trolls to tarnish reputations and to bully those who take an opposing point of view on hot-button issues. We have also seen how Facebook has been used to spread misinformation, often from fictitious accounts.

In her testimony before the US Senate, Haugen, who worked as a product manager for civic integrity issues, urged lawmakers to regulate social media platforms, telling senators that Facebook “won’t solve this crisis without your help.”

Given the influence that Facebook has in the Philippines, this is an idea that our lawmakers should also look into—when some of them can take some time away from defending questionable government deals with shady companies.

The induced-demand phenomenon

Discernment for 2022 voter behavior. Most studies note that popularity and public image remain primary considerations of voters. Other aspects looked into by the voting population are the endorsement by political networks, educational attainment, experience in public office, and campaign platforms and promises.

However, let us learn from experience. If, at all, let this pandemic be the yardstick of political performance and public service. Let us look at the actions taken by our leaders in our fight against this pandemic. More than the backgrounds of the candidates and their track records, let us be more mindful of their political intentions.

Be more cautious of circulating fake news. Let us not be swayed by mere propaganda. We need to be able to distinguish their notable accomplishments in their years of service.

At the end of the day, elections are what they are. They are a manifestation of a thriving democracy. The will of the people prevails. However, as with any other democratic country, it comes as a two-edged sword. Can we elect people who are true to their promises and can deliver excellent public service? Can we elect people who will put public welfare as their priority? Can we elect people who are prudent enough in making decisions for their constituents? Can we put leaders who are truthful to their sworn mandates?

The pandemic and post-pandemic situations pose serious challenges to our leaders. The effect of COVID-19 has serious repercussions on all industries. We deserve a leader who is prepared to steer our nation during these uncertain times.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2021

VARIOUS environmental, heritage and mobility groups are opposed to the 19.37-kilometer Pasig River Expressway project and want it stopped. They have three main reasons, foremost of which is the induced-demand phenomenon. The other two reasons are environmental and heritage degradation.

Let us look at the first reason because it is technical and seems to be the core of their argument. This induced demand phenomenon stipulates that when new roads are built, which in this case is PAREX, this will induce or attract more traffic which will eventually cause more congestion instead of alleviating it.

Induced demand is not new. It was first noticed by road engineers in 1930. Robert Moses, the famous urban planner who transformed New York City, also noticed it. His solution was to build more roads which just increased traffic congestion. By the 1970s, induced demand was already accepted among urban planners, traffic and road engineers. Consequently, some planned road construction projects in some local government units in the United Kingdom, the United States and a few other countries were discontinued. This is now what these various groups want to do here with the PAREX project -- scrap it.

Judging by the reactions of some causeoriented groups who are now supporting the scrapping of the project, they really believe the reasons given are gospel truth. They however, have to be careful in overemphasizing the importance of induced demand as the only determinant that influences traffic behavior because there are other factors.

The critics may be right that PAREX to a certain extent will affect traffic volume but not to the extent calculated by them. This is because there are other ongoing projects in the metro area in conjunction with PAREX which

according to reputable traffic and transport studies will balance out the negative effect of induced demand. These are the MRT7 project, the LRT1 extension project, the on-going subway project, the recently approved MRT4 project, and lastly, the just completed extension of LRT2. When all these projects are completed, this will lessen the need to use private vehicles.

Hence, induced demand would also be reduced.

If we dig deeper into what this induced demand phenomenon is all about, we will come across many other kinds of demands and therefore a lot more complicated.

Private vehicles will continue to increase regardless of whether PAREX is built or not.

From the way they explained induced demand, they are following some researchers who “try to isolate generated demand as the sole effect of induced demand” which is not always the case because there can be other explanations.

There is also such a thing as latent demand, dissuaded demand and a few others like diverted travel. All these must have been factored and studied by the proponent and the Department of Transportation before greenlighting the project. Various studies by universities and experts also suggest that “when data from 1982 to 2011 were analyzed, additional roads actually reduced the rate of congestion increase. When increases in road capacity were matched to the increased demand growth, congestion was found to be lower.”

In the case of the six-to-eight-year study of Professor Robert Cervero of UC at Berkeley about highway expansions, he found that “20 percent of the added capacity is preserved.

The other 80 per cent is absorbed or depleted.

Half of it was due to external factors like growing population and income. Only half of the 80 per cent is due to induced demand.”

There is therefore an argument to be made that building PAREX may not be so bad after all, at least from a technical point of view. It is not also true that there are no elevated freeways in San Francisco or freeways in Paris. The last time I was in San Francisco, there were still elevated freeways unless the city tore them down. Paris also has freeways. The A1, A2, A3, A4 and A5.

If the circumferential freeway is included, that would be the sixth. And yes, a portion of the Paris circumferential freeway is elevated.

In Tokyo, there are roads constructed along rivers. In Boston, the freeway was constructed below the river. Most major metropolitan areas all over the world have urban freeways for easy access and exit of congested metropolitan roads which is something we badly need in the Metro area.

We have completed the SKYWAY project which is the North-South corridor.

The PAREX is supposed to be the EastWest corridor that will interconnect with the SKYWAY thereby allowing easier access and exit anywhere in the Metro area.

If this can be achieved, then people will be encouraged to move to the outskirts thereby expanding Metro Manila’s urban sprawl.

Lastly, we must remember that the current road network of Metro Manila is totally inadequate and that private vehicles will continue to increase regardless of whether PAREX is built or not.

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Smart patrol robots stoke surveillance fears in Singapore

COVID ROUNDUP Russia posts over 900 daily COVID deaths for first time

RUSSIA on Wednesday reported more than 900 daily coronavirus deaths for the first time, as the country struggles with stubbornly high infection rates driven by the Delta variant and low vaccination take-up.

A government tally recorded 929 COVID-19 deaths in the past 24 hours, Russia’s highest daily virus death toll since the outbreak of the pandemic.

The new figures bring Russia’s total deaths from coronavirus to 212,625 – the highest toll in Europe.

The world’s fifth worst-hit country with more than 7.5 million infections, Russia has seen cases climb since August as vaccinations stalled.

While several Russia-made jabs have been available for months, authorities have struggled to inoculate a vaccine-sceptic population.

Independent polls show that more than half of Russians do not plan to get a shot.

As of Wednesday, just under 30 percent of the population had been fully vaccinated, according to the Gogov website, which tallies COVID-19 data from the regions. AFP

Aussie firm recalls US COVID tests over false positives

AUSTRALIAN medical tech manufacturer Ellume said it had recalled almost 200,000 at-home COVID-19 tests in the United States over an increased chance of false positives.

Ellume’s rapid at-home coronavirus test last year became the first to receive emergency use authorization in the US. The US Food and Drug Administration issued an alert Tuesday over the “potential for false positive results with certain lots of the Ellume COVID-19 Home Test, due to a recently identified manufacturing issue.”

“Negative results do not appear to be affected by the manufacturing issue,” the statement said.

“The FDA is working closely with Ellume to assess the company’s additional manufacturing checks and other corrective steps to help ensure that the issue is resolved.”

A spokesman for Ellume told AFP on Wednesday that 195,000 of the 3.5 million tests shipped to the United States had been affected.

Among them were tests provided to the Department of Defense for distribution to community health programmes.

In a statement dated October 1, the company said the voluntary recall was ordered after false positive results were reported in some product batches at higher rates than expected. AFP

Spain to give booster vaccine shot to over-70s

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ROAR! Animal rights group PETA activists in dinosaur costumes urge people to become vegan during a protest in Tokyo on October 6, 2021. AFP

Pope expresses ‘shame’ at sex abuse of minors P

OPE Francis on Wednesday expressed his “shame” at the sexual abuse of children by French Catholic clergy, CYAN BLACK laid MAGENTA bare in aYELLOW devastating report this week.

“I wish to express to the victims my sadness and pain for the trauma they have suffered. And also my shame, our shame, my shame for the inability of the Church for too long to put them at the center of its concerns,” the pontiff said in his general audience.

“I pray and we all pray together – to you Lord the glory, to us the shame.

This is the time for shame.”

French senators visit Taiwan despite China protests

SPAIN’S health ministry said it would give third doses of coronavirus vaccines to the overA delegation of French senators 70s, hoping to improve their protection against led by a former defence minister COVID-19. arrived on Wednesday in Taiwan, The National Public Health Commission where they will hold talks with has decided to offer the booster jab vaccinaCYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK President Tsai Ing-wen, despite tions from late October to elderly people who strong protests from China. received a second vaccine dose more than six Beijing opposes Taipei having months ago, the ministry said in a statement.

Manila any official diplomatic exchanges Spain had until now only offered third doses Standard and has aggressively tried to disTODAY to care home residents and some people with suade politicians from visiting in compromised immune systems. recent years.

“The aim is to increase protection of the The Chinese embassy warned most vulnerable,” the ministry said. that the visit would damage the Europe’s medicines watchdog on Monday interests of China, Chinese-French approved a third dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech relations and “the image of France” AUCTION SALE against a background of vaccine for over-18s, ACME PAWNSHOPS INC. in recent comments on its website. fears their protection against the virus could diFrance’s foreign ministry has Auction sale on October minish over time.

05, 2021, 10:00 a.m.- MJ dismissed China’s protests, saying Holding Almanza, The Bldg., European Medicines Agency (EMA) the senators were free to make their Las also Piñas;approved 12:00 noon has booster doses of both the Alabang Town Center own decisions about their travel Pfizer and Moderna shots for seriously immuStall 2074 U/L, 2:00 plans. p.m. G/F Majalco people.

Bldg., nocompromised Benavidez St., Legaspi The delegation will meet Tsai on More than 15 countries worldwide have begun Village, Makati and Thursday before wrapping up their L&R Bldg., issuing third 1018 doses,Pasay including in European Union natrip on Sunday, according to TaiRoad, Makati and 4:00 tions p.m. including Circle C France, G14, #Italy and Germany. wan’s foreign ministry.

17 Eyeing Congressional Ave., winter resurgence of Coa potential “The senators are making the visBahay Toro D1, Quezon vid, some countries did not wait for EU authorCity. All items pawned it despite threats from the Chinese ities’ approval for their schemes.

AFP May 01-30, 2021.

(MS-SEPT. 23, 2021)

EXTRA-JUDICIAL PUBLIC NOTICE SETTLEMENT of This is toESTATE inform the general public that the following personnel are NO LONGER CONNECTED with Notice is hereby given E-GMP International Corporation, POEA license no. that the estate of the located at 803 General Malvar POEA-161-LB-091019-R late ABELARDO Street Malate, Effective September 30, 2021 CONCEPCION ATIENZA has been extra-judicially

1.settled MAUREEN GARCIAhis PARON among heirs 2.consisting HONEYIA RAMILO TALIB of: 3.• SHEILA TCTMANALILI No.SAN ANTONIO 0134. PETER KOHLEN BALGOS TAMAYO RO2016000005 (P2650).

-

MONITORING OFFICER MONITORING ASSISTANT ACCOUNTING STAFF RECRUITMENT OFFICER

Any transaction entered As per Doc. No. 427; by them on the Company’s Page shall No. 86; No. behalf not Book be honored.

X; Series of 2020 before

Notary Public isATTY. This publication in compliance with POEA Rules RAYMOND C. REYES. and Regulations

23/30, OCT. 7, 2021) (MS-OCT. 7,(MS-SEPT. 2021)

Manila

AUCTION SALE Standard ACME PAWNSHOPS INC.

TODAY

Auction sale on October 05, 2021, 10:00 a.m.- MJ Holding Bldg., Almanza, Las Piñas; 12:00 noon Alabang Town Center Stall 2074 U/L, 2:00 p.m. G/F Majalco Bldg., Benavidez St., Legaspi Village, Makati and L&R Bldg., 1018 Pasay Road, Makati and 4:00 p.m. Circle C G14, # 17 Congressional Ave., Bahay Toro D1, Quezon City. All items pawned May 01-30, 2021.

(MS-SEPT. 23, 2021)

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT of ESTATE Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ABELARDO CONCEPCION ATIENZA has been extra-judicially settled among his heirs consisting of: • TCT No. 013RO2016000005 (P2650).

As per Doc. No. 427; Page No. 86; Book No. X; Series of 2020 before Notary Public ATTY. RAYMOND C. REYES. (MS-SEPT. 23/30, OCT. 7, 2021)

ambassador to France, showing their steadfast commitment to the spirit of freedom and democracy,” the ministry said in a statement on Tuesday.

The Chinese ambassador wrote to the leader of the French delegation, Alain Richard, in February, saying his visit would “clearly violate the one-China principle and send the wrong signal to pro-independence forces in Taiwan.”

Richard chairs the French senate’s Taiwan Friendship Group and previously visited the island in 2015 and 2018. AFP

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT of ESTATE Notice is hereby given that the estate of the spouses VENANCIO E. ANTONIO and MARCELINA BAUTISTA ANTONIO has been extra-judicially settled among their heirs WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS consisting of: • • •

TCT No. T-143325 – Bo. of Caloong, Valenzuela; TCT No. T-143323 – Bo. of Coloong, Valenzuela; TCT No. V-78958 – Brgy. Rinco, Valenzuela City.

As per Doc. No. 425; Page No. 86; Book No. X; Series of 2020 before Notary Public ATTY. RAYMOND C. REYES.

(MS-SEPT. 23/30, OCT. 7, 2021)

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT of ESTATE Notice is hereby given that the estate of the spouses JACINTO RAÑADA and MARCELA B. RAÑADA has been extrajudicially settled among their heirs consisting of: • • • • • • •

TCT No. B-39021 – Barrio of Isla Mm. of Valenzuela, Prov. Of Bulacan; TCT No. B-27077 – Barrio of Isla, Municipality of Polo, Prov. of Bulacan; TCT No. T-157170 – Barrio of Isla, of Valenzuela, Prov. of Bulacan; TCT No. T-143331 – Bo. of Coloong, Valenzuela; TCT No. T-143329 – Bo. of Coloong, Valenzuela; TCT No. V-2591 – Bo. of Coloong, Valenzuela; (Untitled) Tax Declaration No. C-008-00595 – Brgy. Tagalag, Valenzuela City;

As per Doc. No. 426; Page No. 86; Book No. X; Series of 2020 before Notary Public ATTY. RAYMOND C. REYES. (MS-SEPT. 23/30, OCT. 7, 2021)

Francis urged the clergy to keep The report found that the “vast working to ensure such situations “are majority” of victims were pre-adonot repeated,” offering his support to lescent boys from a variety of social French priests to face up to “this trial backgrounds. Their abusers were that is hard but healthy.” mainly priests, bishops, deacons and And he invited French Catholics to monks. “assume their responsibilities to enWhen claims against lay members of sure that the Church is a safe home for the Church, such as teachers at Cathoall.” lic schools are included, the number of CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK An independent commission on child abuse victims climbs to 330,000 Tuesday revealed that French Catholic since 1950, the report found. clergy sexually abused around 216,000 “These figures are more than worryminors over seven decades since 1950, ing, they are damning and in no way a “massive phenomenon” that was can remain without a response,” comcovered up by a “veil of silence.” mission chief Jean-Marc Sauve told The commission’s two-and-a-half- a press conference that unveiled the year inquiry and 2,500-page report nearly 2,500-page report. prompted outrage as the Catholic “Until the early 2000s, the Catholic Church in France and around the Church showed a profound and even world faces a growing number of cruel indifference towards the vicabuse claims and prosecutions. tims.” AFP

Smart patrol robots stoke surveillance fears in Singapore.

File photo shows an autonomous robot named ‘Xavier’ patroling a shopping and residential district during a three-week trial by the Home Team Science and Technology Agency (HTX) in Singapore.

The patrol robots blast warnings at people engaging in bad behavior. AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

SINGAPORE has trialed patrol robots that blast warnings at people engaging in “undesirable social behavior,” adding to an arsenal of surveillance technology in the tightly controlled citystate that is fueling privacy concerns.

From vast numbers of CCTV cameras to trials of lampposts kitted out with facial recognition tech, Singapore is seeing an explosion of tools to track its inhabitants.

Officials have long pushed a vision of a hyper-efficient, tech-driven “smart nation,” but activists say privacy is being sacrificed and people have little control over what happens to their data.

Singapore is frequently criticised for curbing civil liberties and people are accustomed to tight controls, but there is still growing unease at intrusive tech.

The government’s latest surveillance devices are robots on wheels, with seven cameras, that issue warnings to the public and detect “undesirable social behavior.”

This includes smoking in prohibited areas, improperly parking bicycles, and breaching coronavirus social-distancing rules.

During a recent patrol, one of the “Xavier” robots wove its way through a housing estate and stopped in front of a group of elderly residents watching a chess match.

“Please keep one-meter distancing, please keep to five persons per group,” a robotic voice blared out, as a camera on top of the machine trained its gaze on them.

During a three-week trial in September, two robots were deployed to patrol the housing estate and a shopping center.

“It reminds me of Robocop,” said Frannie Teo, a 34-year-old research assistant, who was walking through the mall.

It brings to mind a “dystopian world of robots... I’m just a bit hesitant about that kind of concept,” she added. AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Greener chemistry: Duo wins Nobel Prize for work on organocatalysts GERMANY’S Benjamin List and David MacMillan of the United States on Wednesday won the Nobel Chemistry Prize for their development of a precise new tool for molecular construction which has helped make chemistry greener, the jury said.

The duo was awarded “for their development of a precise new tool for molecular construction: organocatalysis. This has had a great impact on pharmaceutical research, and has made chemistry greener,” the Nobel Committee said.

Prior to their work, scientists believed there were only two types of catalysts, metals and enzymes.

In 2000, the researchers, working independently of each other, developed

AUCTION SALE ACME PAWNSHOPS INC. Auction sale on October 05, 2021, 10:00 a.m.- MJ Holding Bldg., Almanza, Las Piñas; 12:00 noon Alabang Town Center Stall 2074 U/L, 2:00 p.m. G/F Majalco Bldg., Benavidez St., Legaspi Village, Makati and L&R Bldg., 1018 Pasay Road, Makati and 4:00 p.m. Circle C G14, # 17 Congressional Ave., Bahay Toro D1, Quezon City. All items pawned May 01-30, 2021.

(MS-SEPT. 23, 2021)

EXTRA-JUDICIAL PUBLIC NOTICE SETTLEMENT of This is toESTATE inform the general public that the following personnel are NO LONGER CONNECTED with Notice is hereby given E-GMP International Corporation, POEA license no. that the estate of the located at 803 General Malvar POEA-161-LB-091019-R late Street Malate,ABELARDO Effective September 30, 2021 CONCEPCION ATIENZA has been extra-judicially

1.settled MAUREEN GARCIAhis PARON - MONITORING OFFICER among heirs 2.consisting HONEYIA RAMILO TALIB - MONITORING ASSISTANT of: 3.• SHEILA MANALILI SAN ANTONIO ACCOUNTING STAFF TCT No. 0134. PETER KOHLEN BALGOS TAMAYO RECRUITMENT OFFICER activist RO2016000005 (P- An -anti-government

STILL DEFIANT. 2650).

poses in Doc. front No. of wreaths forCompany’s the victims of the Any transaction entered them on the As per 427; by arranged Page shall No. 86; Book No. massacre on October 6, 1976, behalf notUniversity be honored.

Thammasat X; Series of 2020 before during the annual commemoration ceremony Notary Public This publication isATTY. in compliance with POEA Rules for the RAYMOND C. REYES. and Regulations event at Thammasat University in Bangkok on October (MS-OCT. 7,(MS-SEPT. 6, 2021.2021) AFP23/30, OCT. 7, 2021)

a third type, called “asymmetric moment that I will never forget,” List organocatalysis,” which relies on small said. organic molecules.

MacMillan is a professor at Princeton List and MacMillan, both 53, University in the US, while List is a will share the 10-million-kronor director at the Max Planck Institute in ($1.1-million) prize.

Germany.

“I thought somebody was making a “Many research areas and industries joke. I was sitting at breakfast with my are dependent on chemists’ ability to wife,” List told reporters by telephone construct molecules that can form elastic during a press conference after the prize and durable materials, store energy in was announced. batteries or inhibit the progression of He added that usually when the prize disease,” the Nobel committee at the is announced, his wife jokes that he Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences should keep an eye on his phone for a said in a statement. call from Sweden.

“This work requires catalysts, “But today we didn’t even make the which are substances that control and joke,” List said. accelerate chemical reactions, without “It’s hard to describe what you feel in becoming part of the final product,” it that moment but it was a very special AFP YELLOW BLACK CYAN added.

MAGENTA

‘No expiry date’ for justice, says key lawyer on twilight Nazi trials LAWYER Thomas Walther, 78, gets prickly when he hears criticism of German courts putting elderly surviving Nazis – many over 90 years old now – on trial.

“No one voices any doubts when charges are filed over a murder after 30 years,” he tells AFP. “But the prosecution of old men and old women is somehow viewed as problematic after 75 years, even if it’s about 1,000 or 5,000 murders in which active assistance was provided by the accused.”

Justice has “no expiry date,” stresses the lawyer, who has led the way on a series of twilight justice cases in Germany against the last surviving Nazis.

It was due to a case Walther put before the courts in the early 2000s that jurisprudence was set in 2011, allowing investigators to prosecute Nazi staff on the basis they had served as part of Adolf Hitler’s

extermination machine.

On Thursday, another of his cases will be reaching the court.

The trial of Josef S., now 100 years old, accused of complicity in the murder of 3,518 prisoners between 1942 and 1945 at Sachsenhausen concentration camp will open. Walther is representing survivors of the horrors and their relatives.

The long-term prosecutor and later judge has dedicated his retirement years to bringing justice, even if late, to victims of the Holocaust and their descendants.

Besides “the relatives of those killed, countless families that have been completely wiped out too have the right to this late justice,” he says.

Located about 30 kilometers north of Berlin, the Sachsenhausen camp held 200,000 detainees between 1936 and 1945, mainly opposition figures, Jews and gays. AFP

Business Crude prices climb to new highs, near $80 a barrel NEW YORK—World oil prices surged to new multi-year peaks on Tuesday, extending their run after OPEC’s latest production decision, while European and US equities rebounded from the prior session’s losses.

US oil futures moved closer to $80 a barrel, a level not crossed since November 2014, after OPEC and other major producers opted on Monday against increasing output by more than previously agreed—despite tightening supplies and rising demand.

The OPEC+ grouping decided to stick with their planned increase next month in oil production of 400,000 barrels.

“OPEC+ gave oil bulls a red rag to bid up futures contracts as it stuck to the planned increase,” said Markets. com analyst Neil Wilson.

“It’s not that demand is suddenly forecast to improve—it’s more that OPEC+ is keeping such a tight grip on supply.”

The latest decision by oil producers also gave a lift to petroleum-linked equities, including BP, TotalEnergies and Chevron, all of which gained one percent or more.

Wall Street stocks enjoyed a much better session overall compared with Monday’s pullback.

Data showed the US services sector grew slightly more than expected in September, while PepsiCo’s results also topped estimates. The strong earnings contrasted with some other recent results disappointments.

“We will see more of this in the next couple weeks,” Maris Ogg of Tower Bridge Advisors predicted of the upcoming earnings season.

“We are going to get some pre-announcements and swing from everything is okay to everything is not okay for the next couple of weeks.”

All three major US indices finished higher, led by the tech-rich Nasdaq, which jumped 1.3 percent. AFP

B3

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2021 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

Stock market tops 7,000; Globe, Semirara advance T HE stock market surged Wednesday, with the benchmark index going above the 7,000-point mark as the daily COVID-19 cases in the country fell below 10,000.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index advanced 76.21 points, or 1.1 percent, to 7,057.45 on a value turnover of P9.5 billion. Gainers beat losers,113 to 92, with 41 issues unchanged.

Globe Telecom Inc., the second-biggest mobile phone company, climbed 9.5 percent to P3,410, while construction materials retailer Wilcon Depot Inc. jumped 8.1 percent P31.35.

Semirara Mining and Power Corp., the biggest coal miner, rose 5 percent to P25, while Robinsons Retail Hold-

ings Inc of the Gokongwei Group also advanced 5 percent to P61.10.

Asian markets, meanwhile, fell Wednesday as a strong lead from Wall Street was overshadowed by ongoing worries about rising inflation and tighter monetary policy, a possible US debt default and the Delta coronavirus variant.

The rally enjoyed across equities for more than a year has met a roadblock in recent months as supply chain problems and a surge in energy prices caused by a recovery in demand has led to a sustained spike in inflation.

That has put increasing pressure on central banks around the world to wind in the ultra-loose monetary policies put in place last year to battle the impact of the pandemic, which have been key to the rebound in the global economy as well as markets.

And investors are not happy, with some now warning that continuously

BORDEAUX, France—In France’s storied Bordeaux wine region, an experiment aimed at helping some of the world’s bestloved tipples to weather the ravages of climate change is starting to bear fruit.

On a small estate in the southwestern region where Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon have reigned supreme for decades, several non-indigenous grape varieties nurtured by researchers over the past 10 years have taken root.

The idea of growing Portugal’s Touriga Nacional or Georgia’s Saperavi in Bordeaux would have seemed heretical to the purists behind France’s strict wine appellations just a few years ago.

But with experts warning that the region that gave the world Chateau Margaux could be one of the worst hit by the climate emergency, the race to find grape varieties that can withstand extreme heat has intensified.

“In 2050, Bordeaux’s climate could be like that of Seville,” Bernard Farges, president of the Bordeaux Wine Council, told AFP, referring to the Spanish city more than 1,000 kilometers (600 miles) to the south.

“If we don’t do something about grape varieties now, we risk losing what makes our wines unique,” he said.

A study published in the American Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences in 2013 caused shock with a warning that climate change might wipe out up to 86 percent of wine production in Bordeaux, as well as in the Rhone Valley, in four decades.

Early harvests Five years later, France took a radical step: it relaxed the rules governing which grapes can be used for which wines in a

TOP GAINERS

high prices combined with signs that global growth is slowing could lead to a period of stagflation.

Wall Street’s three main indexes rallied Tuesday, the day after a painful rout, but Asia was unable to follow suit.

Tokyo fell for an eighth straight session, while Hong Kong, Seoul, Sydney, Wellington, Mumbai, Bangkok and Taipei were also well in the red.

But Singapore and Jakarta posted gains. Shanghai remained closed until Friday for a holiday.

The US Federal Reserve is widely expected to soon announce it will begin cutting back its massive bond-buying program, with interest rates possibly rising as soon as next year.

Other central banks have also hinted at moves soon or have already acted.

On Wednesday, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand announced a first rate rise in seven years, joining the banks of South Korea and Norway. With AFP

TOTAL DESTRUCTION. Greenpeace activists wearing the uniform of petroleum workers stand beside a smoking ‘oil well tower’ during an action in front of The Louvre Museum Pyramid in Paris on October 6, 2021 as they protest against French energy company Total and continued world fossil fuel production and consumption. AFP

Grapes of change: Revered French wines adapt to global warming

By Nathalie Alonso with Renaud Lavergne

PSEi OCTOBER 6, 2021

LAST PRICE

% CHANGE CHANGE

1

MACAY

7

0.76

12.18%

2

MWC

22.6

2.1

10.24%

3 4

GLO OPM

3410 0.012

296 0.001

9.51% 9.09%

5

OPMB

0.012

0.001

9.09%

6 7

DITO WLCON

7.74 31.35

0.61 2.35

8.56% 8.10%

8

RCI

0.83

0.06

7.79%

9 10

FERRO MAC

3.43 4.92

0.24 0.34

7.52% 7.42%

TOP LOSERS LAST PRICE

% CHANGE CHANGE

1

VVT

15

-1.54

-9.31%

2 3

FGEN ABG

30 5.41

-2.5 -0.29

-7.69% -5.09%

4

MJC

1.72

-0.09

-4.97%

5 6 7

GREEN LODE UPM

2.12 0.64 0.0067

-0.1 -4.50% -0.03 -4.48% -0.0003 -4.29%

8 9 10

PRIM ECP BC

1.58 4.81 4.89

-0.07 -0.19 -0.19

-4.24% -3.80% -3.74%

MOST ACTIVE 1

GLO

VOLUME 300,375

2 3 4

CNVRG TEL WLCON

15,315,100 379,200 14,972,900

VALUE (PHP) 998,541,970 677,459,385 657,993,205 471,754,260

Taller vines native to the Languedoc region. given region, allowing for experiments Destrac-Irvine is one of the leaders Vineyards in Beaujolais, famous for 5 with new varieties that are more resistant ACEN 36,241,300 444,188,678 of a decade-long experiment being con- the vin nouveau released to great fanfare to extreme weather conditions.

Bordeaux was one of the first regions ducted by INRAE and other partners every November, are also introducing 6 AC 529,620 434,853,355 to seize the opportunity by allowing close to Bordeaux with grape varieties more heat-resistant varieties, like Syrah and Viognier, usually found further 7 producers to use some of the hardier selected from around Europe.

BDO 3,173,320 364,006,860 From an initial sample of 52, six have south in the Rhone Valley. new grapes in their blends starting with been selected for experimental use in “In the next 10 years, due to global 8 the 2021 vintage.

RRHI 4,108,100 244,059,484 The southern Languedoc and central small quantities for Bordeaux and Bor- warming, the varieties best suited to the Beaujolais regions are also experiment- deaux Superieur wines over the next south (of France) will also be the best suit- 9 LTG 23,603,300 233,585,223 ing with new varieties, and producers in 10 years, including Portugal’s late-ma- ed to the north,” Pierre-Olivier Sauvaire, the northern Champagne region, which turing Touriga Nacional and Alvarinho manager of the Chateau de Varennes es- 10 SMPH 6,862,300 231,771,675 is increasingly prone to devastating late- varieties as well as the Marselan grapes tate in Beaujolais, predicted. AFP spring frosts, are looking Manila at following suit.

ATRAM UNICAPITAL DIVERSIFIED ATRAMth CORPORATE BOND FUND, INC. With temperatures in Standard TODAY GROWTH FUND, INC. 8 Floor, 8 Rockwell Building, Hidalgo Drive, southern France regularly Rockwell Center, Makati City, Metro Manila 8th Floor, 8 Rockwell Building, Hidalgo Drive, Tel. No. 8814-7800; Fax No. 8841-0315 hitting 40 degrees Celsius Rockwell Center, Makati City, Metro Manila (104 Fahrenheit) in sumTel. No. 8814-7800; Fax No. 8841-0315 NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING mer, the issue has gained NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING increased urgency.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual Stockholders' Meeting (ASM) of the aforementioned Corporation will be held virtually or via remote communication Harvests have been NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting (ASM) on 28 October 2021 at 3:00 PM via Zoom webinar. Stockholders can register of the aforementioned Corporation will be held virtually or via remote scheduled up to a month at https://bit.ly/ATRAM2021ASM. Webinar password will be sent via email after communication on 28 October 2021 at 2:00 PM via Zoom webinar. earlier than the longregistration.

Stockholders can register at https://bit.ly/ATRAM2021ASM. Webinar standing early September password will be sent via email after registration.

The Agenda of the Meeting is as follows: norm, and the resulting The Agenda of the Meeting is as follows: wines lack the acidity 1. Call to Order 2. Certification of Notice and Quorum needed for balance.

1. Call to Order 3. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Shareholders Meeting held on 15 “Thirty years ago, the 2. Certification of Notice and Quorum October 2020 3. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Shareholders Meeting held on 15 wines were coming out 4. Management Report October 2020 with an alcohol content of 5. Presentation of the Audited Financial Statements as of 31 March 2021 4. Management Report 6. Ratification of the Corporate Acts of the Board of Directors since the last 11-11.5 percent, whereas 5. Presentation of the Audited Financial Statements as of 31 March 2021 annual stockholders’ meeting 6. Ratification of the Corporate Acts of the Board of Directors since the last today it’s more like 13.57. Election of Directors for 2021 to 2022 annual stockholders’ meeting 14 percent,” said Agnes 8. Amendment of the Articles of Incorporation to align with the Revised 7. Election of Directors for 2021 to 2022 Corporation Code and the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Destrac-Irvine, an agron8. Amendment of the Articles of Incorporation to align with the Revised Investment Company Act Corporation Code and the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the omist at France’s Na9. Amendment of the By-laws to align with the Revised Corporation Code Investment Company Act tional Research Institute and the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Investment Company 9. Amendment of the By-laws to align with the Revised Corporation Code Act for Agriculture, Food and and the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Investment Company 10. Amendment of the Registration Statement to update the Fund’s Dividend Act Environment (INRAE).

Policy 10. Appointment of Standard Chartered Bank as Primary Custodian and The merlot grapes that 11. Appointment of Standard Chartered Bank as Primary Custodian and Fund Fund Accountant Accountant account for 65 percent 11. Appointment of External Auditor for 2021 12. Appointment of External Auditor for 2021 12. Other Matters of the vines planted in 13. Other Matters 13. Adjournment Bordeaux are particularly 14. Adjournment susceptible to rising temOnly holders of issued stocks of record as at the close of business hours Only holders of issued stocks of record as at the close of business hours on peratures. on 3 September 2021 and whose status as stockholders on that date has been satisfactorily established in accordance with the corporate records of the Stock and Transfer Agent and the Corporate Secretary of the Company, will be entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the scheduled stockholders’ meeting.

Given the current circumstances and in order to ensure the safety and welfare of our stockholders in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Corporation will dispense with the physical attendance of stockholders at the meeting and will allow attendance only by remote communication and by voting in absentia or voting through the Chairman of the meeting as proxy.

Stockholders who intend to participate in the meeting via remote communication and to exercise their vote in absentia must notify the Corporate Secretary by registering through the Company’s website for the 2021 annual meeting of the stockholders on or before 18 October 2021. All information submitted will be subject to verification and validation by the Corporate Secretary by 22 October 2021. Successful registrants will receive an e-mail with instructions on how to access an online web address which will allow them to join the meeting and cast votes in absentia or by proxy in favor of the Chairman of the meeting.

The procedures for participating in the meeting through remote communication and for casting their votes in absentia are set forth in the Information Statement.

Wine producers taste wines during a meeting organized by wine research center, SICAREX Beaujolais, in Liergues, region of Beaujolais, on September 7, 2021. New grape varieties, anti-frost nets, taller stems: across France wine producers are scrambling to find ways to mitigate the ravages of the extreme weather caused by climate change. AFP

3 September 2021 and whose status as stockholders on that date has been satisfactorily established in accordance with the corporate records of the Stock and Transfer Agent and the Corporate Secretary of the Company, will be entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the scheduled stockholders’ meeting.

Given the current circumstances and in order to ensure the safety and welfare of our stockholders in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Corporation will dispense with the physical attendance of stockholders at the meeting and will allow attendance only by remote communication and by voting in absentia or voting through the Chairman of the meeting as proxy.

Stockholders who intend to participate in the meeting via remote communication and to exercise their vote in absentia must notify the Corporate Secretary by registering through the Company’s website for the 2021 annual meeting of the stockholders on or before 18 October 2021. All information submitted will be subject to verification and validation by the Corporate Secretary by 22 October 2021. Successful registrants will receive an e-mail with instructions on how to access an online web address which will allow them to join the meeting and cast votes in absentia or by proxy in favor of the Chairman of the meeting.

The procedures for participating in the meeting through remote communication and for casting their votes in absentia are set forth in the Information Statement.

Makati City, Philippines, September 28, 2021.

Makati City, Philippines, September 28, 2021.

(Sgd.) ATTY. MA. ALICIA G. PICAZO-SANJUAN Corporate Secretary

(Sgd.) ATTY. MA. ALICIA G. PICAZO-SANJUAN Corporate Secretary (MS-OCT. 6 & 7, 2021)

(MS-OCT. 6 & 7, 2021)

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

B4

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2021

Lufthansa PH unveils move to rehire 700 staff

By Darwin G. Amojelar AIRCRAFT maintenance, repair and overhaul services provider Lufthansa Technik Philippines said Wednesday it will rehire at least 700 staff who were laid off because of the pandemic, as it now sees a bright future ahead.

“The rehiring will start soon. So, we have actually reduced 80 percent [of our manpower]. At the moment after the rightsizing, [we have] 2,700 employees and I hope that by next year we will go back to our old strength with 3,400,” said Elmar Lutter, president and chief executive of LTP in a virtual briefing.

“With this additional production capacity at Hangar 1A, we will start soon to rehire those mechanics and other staff,” he said.

The new hangar, called Hangar 1A which is a replica of Hangar 1, will start operations by February 2022 and will increase its capacity by 30 percent.

LTP started the construction of the expanded facility in September 2019, but the completion was delayed for one and a half years because of the global pandemic. It was supposed to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2020.

The company invested $40 million for the new hangar.

“We are very happy that with the perseverance and support from the Philippine government for the business recovery, LTP is stepping out of the darkness and now we see the future more brightly,” Lutter said.

“Our business has been down by 40 percent ... but we see sign of hope,” he said.

Lutter said the easing of travel restrictions globally, including in the Philippines, brought back demand for MRP and “our hangars are much full again.”

Hangar 1 services aircraft of various airlines, including Philippine Airlinesm British Airways, Korean Air, Asian Airlines and Saudi Arabian Airlines.

Uy’s PH Resorts postpones casino bid in Pampanga PH RESORTS Corp., the gaming and hospitality firm of businessman Dennis Uy, said Wednesday it deferred the planned development of a second integrated casino hotel project in Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga.

PH Resorts said in a disclosure to the stock exchange unit Clark Grand Leisure Corp. sought for the voluntary suspension of its gaming license for the integrated resort and casino project in Clark Global City in the Clark Freeport.

PHR cited lingering uncertainties surrounding the casino gaming industry and increased competition as primary reasons for the voluntary suspension of its gaming license.

CGLC’s request was approved by government-owned Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.

PHR said the voluntary suspension would enable it ramp up and focus all efforts for the construction and development of its flagship integrated resort and casino project, the Emerald Bay Resort and Casino, in Mactan, Cebu.

The voluntary suspension will be effective until further notice and its lifting will be subject to the approval of PAGCOR’s board of directors.

“As present financial projections center on PHR’s plans for the Emerald Bay project, the voluntary suspension of CGLC’s license will have no effect on current financial numbers. Thus, PHR expects that the suspension will have little to no impact on the business of PHR,” the company said.

The planned casino development in Clark sits on a 4.4-hectare property inside the 177-hectare Clark Global City. The project was supposed to be completed by 2022 with 600 electronic gaming machines, 100 gaming tables, several hotels with 400 rooms and a retail and restaurant complex.

Meanwhile, the Emerald Bay is scheduled for completion by the third quarter of 2022. Upon completion of the first phase, Emerald Bay will feature 122 gaming tables for mass, premium mass and junkets; 600 electronic gaming machines and 270 hotel room bays. Jenniffer B. Austria

Business

Megaworld investing P98b in new Bulacan global city

By Jenniffer B. Austria

P

ROPERTY developer Megaworld Corp. said Wednesday it earmarked P98 billion to develop a new integrated mixed-use development in the municipalities of Marilao and Bocaue in Bulacan province.

Megaworld said in a disclosure to the stock exchange the 85-hectare development called Northwin Global City would be master-planned as a global business district with commercial district, high-rise residential condominiums, hotels, malls, mixed-use commercial buildings, educational institutions and state-of-the-art office towers.

Forty percent of the entire township development will be dedicated to green and open spaces such as landscaped parks, according to the company.

Megaworld said Northwin Global City would become the first metropolitan hub for business and lifestyle in

Bulacan province.

“Finally, our vision of having a truly modern and global business district for Bulacan is coming to a reality. This is like building a new city that will put the province of Bulacan in the global business map because we envision huge multinational companies to be operating here, once our commercial district and our office towers will be completed,” said Kevin Tan, chief strategy officer of Megaworld.

“Northwin Global City’s close proximity to Metro Manila and its ideal location just along NLEX [North Luzon Expressway] and the major transport

infrastructure will be very favorable for the future locators and residents of this township,” Tan said.

The township project will host one of the stations of the proposed ManilaClark Railway Project.

The property is 20 minutes from the proposed New Manila International Airport in Bulacan and just five minutes from the Philippine Arena.

Once completed, future residents, locators and even visitors of the township will have the most convenient access to and from Metro Manila and to and from Clark International Airport.

From the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Makati central business district and Bonifacio Global City, Northwin Global City can be easily accessed via the Skyway 3 towards NLEX, which will only take around an hour during normal traffic.

“Once completed, Northwin Global City will have convenient access to three international airports in Bulacan, Clark and even in Metro Manila,” Tan said.

PSE INDEX CLOSING Wednesday, October 6, 2021 76.21 PTS. 7,057.45

TOTAL VOLUME

2,713,754,743

TOTAL TRADES TOTAL VALUE

117,781 9,546,992,690.21

ADVANCES

113

DECLINES UNCHANGED

92 41

F oreign e xchange r ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2021

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

50.7110

Japan

Yen

0.008971

0.4549

UK

Pound

1.362700

69.1039

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.128449

6.5138

Switzerland

Franc

1.077702

54.6513

Canada

Dollar

0.794913

40.3108

Singapore

Dollar

0.737083

37.3782

Australia

Dollar

0.728400

36.9379

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652590

134.5155

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266652

13.5222

Brunei

Dollar

0.734376

37.2409

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000070

0.0035

Thailand

Baht

0.029612

1.5017

UAE

Dirham

0.272287

13.8079

Euro

Euro

1.159900

58.8197

Korea

Won

0.000843

0.0427

China

Yuan

0.154524

7.8361

India

Rupee

0.013416

0.6803

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.239378

12.1391

New Zealand

Dollar

0.696100

35.2999

Taiwan

Dollar

0.035885

1.8198 Source: BSP

IN BRIEF KKR to buy $171-m shares in First Gen GLOBAL investment firm KKR plans to acquire 7.3 percent of the common shares of First Gen Corp. valued at P8.68 billion or $171 million.

KKR said Wednesday it waived its maximum limit of 205 million shares under the terms of the tender offer and accepted all of the 262,937,672 common shares of First Gen that were tendered by shareholders at the close of the tender offer.

This followed the completion of the voluntary tender offer by Philippines Clean Energy Holding Inc., an entity owned by KKR investment funds.

“After having been invested in First Gen for this past year, our admiration for First Gen’s business and strategy including its work to support the energy transition in the Philippines as well as its board and management team has only increased,” Michael de Guzman, managing director on KKR’s Infrastructure team, said in a statement.

“Today, we are pleased to have this opportunity to extend our shareholding in First Gen and support its work to provide critical energy solutions to millions of Filipinos across the country. This investment marks the latest milestone for KKR in the Philippines, and deepens our commitment to the market,” said de Guzman.

Alena Mae S. Flores

ICTSI hikes stake in Pakistan terminal

FINANCIAL LITERACY. Philippine Stock Exchange Inc. joins the global Ring the Bell for Financial Literacy initiative of the World Federation of Exchanges, marking its third straight year of supporting the advocacy. PSE president and chief executive Ramon Monzon (right) and chief operating officer Roel Refran lead the ceremony with Bullit, PSE’s Buddy for Financial Fitness or BFF, at the PSE trading floor in Taguig City.

Bangko Sentral approves merger of BPI and unit BPI Family Bank

By Julito G. Rada THE Monetary Board, the policymaking body of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, approved the planned merger of the Bank of the Philippine Islands and subsidiary BPI Family Savings Bank, with the former as the surviving entity.

BPI said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Wednesday the Monetary Board relayed the approval on the merger on Sept. 30, 2021.

The merger was approved by BPI’s board of directors on Jan. 20, 2021 and by stockholders on April 22, 2021.

It also received the greenlight from Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. on July 6, 2021, subject to conditions.

BPI said the next steps would include the regulatory filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the

Philippine Stock Exchange.

The merger would create considerable value to the customers, employees and shareholders of the two entities, according to BPI. The customers of the combined BPI and BPI Family Savings Bank will have access to all the products, via all the digital and physical channels, of both entities.

The employees of the merged entity will also have the ability to work across a larger, more varied bank network while potential synergies will create shareholder value. BPI Family Savings Bank is 100-percent owned by BPI. The merger will become effective upon the issuance of the SEC of the certificate of merger or by Jan. 1, 2022, the bank said.

After the effective date, all rights, privileges, immunities, franchises and

powers of BPI Family will be deemed transferred to and possessed by BPI. All assets, properties, liabilities and obligations of BPI Family will also be transferred to BPI. BPI said the procedure for determining the number of BPI shares that would be issued pursuant to the merger would be determined using the net asset value of BPI Family Savings Bank as of Dec. 31, 2020 as reflected in the audited financial statements and BPI’s share price as of Dec. 29, 2020.

The investment in the subsidiary account will be cancelled, and treasury will be recognized for the newly-issued BPI common shares.

BPI, the third-largest lender in terms of assets, posted a net income of P11.8 billion in the first half, up 1.2 percent from a year ago despite the 6.7-percent decline in revenues to P48.1 billion.

ICTSI Mauritius Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of International Container Terminal Services Inc., acquired an additional stake in a container terminal in Pakistan.

The port operator owned by businessman Enrique Razon Jr. said ICTSI Mauritius bought an additional 7.15 percent stake in Pakistan International Container Terminal Limited, after 7,800,000 ordinary shares were crossed in the Pakistan Stock Exchange. The transaction increased ICTSI Mauritius Limited’s ownership in PICT from 64.54 percent to 71.68 percent.

PICT earlier marked a milestone with the handling of its 10-millionth twenty-foot equivalent units since commencing operations in 2002.

Operating Berths 6 to 9 at the East Wharf of the Karachi Port, PICTl is the preferred terminal for the Indian subcontinent trade routes. The common-use terminal offers excellent connections to Central Asia, Afghanistan, and the Western China hinterlands.

Darwin G. Amojelar

NTC asked to probe Globe portability issue SMART Communications Inc. asked the National Telecommunications Commission to look into the alleged delayed implementation of mobile number portability by Globe Telecom’s GOMO. “Even the president of the Philippines cannot stop the law from being implemented. How then can a unilateral act of one covered by the law, delay implementation?”

Smart regulatory affairs’ manager Kenneth Regañon said in a letter to NTC commissioner Gamaliel Cordoba.

Smart referenced a Globe advisory sent to its customers a day before MNP’s launch saying, MNP for GOMO would not be available on Sept. 30, the start of the law’s implementation.

GOMO is described in its SIM terms and conditions as a mobile service provider running on Globe’s network.

Under Republic Act No. 11202, all MSPs are obligated to provide nationwide mobile number portability (or MNPs to all qualified subscribers. Darwin G. Amojelar

AC Energy switches on 150-MW diesel plant

By Alena Mae S. Flores

E-COMMUNITY. Energy Development Corp. teams up with the Department of Information and Communications Technology, Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce & Industry and the local government of Valencia, Negros Oriental to launch the country’s first off-grid e-community that connects Barangay Puhagan in Valencia to the digital world. Leading the switch-on ceremony are (from left) Norreen Bautista, head of EDC’s corporate social responsibility team in Negros; Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo; DICT regional director 7 officer-in-charge Frederick Amores; Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry region 7 governor Ed Du; Barangay chairman Leonarda Sarita; DICT provincial director Aurelio Tinapay; and National Telecommunication Commission provincial director Felipe Gumalo.

AC ENERGY Corp. announced Wednesday the start of operations of its P1.5-billion 150-megawatt quick response diesel power plant in Pililla, Rizal to augment the energy supply amid the Malampaya shutdown.

The newly-completed diesel facility will supply essential peaking and reserve power to the grid. It is the third plant to be switched on by AC Energy this year.

The diesel plant is owned by AC Energy in partnership with Axia Power Holdings Philippines Corp., a subsidiary of Japanbased Marubeni Corp. To ensure high availability of the plant, Aggreko of UK installed 162 units of diesel generators, providing enough spare capacity.

Aggreko will provide operations and maintenance services to the Ingrid plant.

“Thermal firming capacity is critical to our energy transition strategy towards a lower carbon portfolio. To complement our renewables and to provide flexibility

and stability to the grid, these firming assets will remain in our portfolio while we develop to scale up our energy storage facilities,” said AC Energy chief development officer Jose Maria Zabaleta.

AC Energy aims to help address the critically thin reserves by accelerating the development of its pipeline of power plants as electricity demand continues to go up.

The company earlier completed the 120-MW GigaSol Alaminos in Laguna province and the 63-MW GigaSol Palauig in Zambales province.

The company is also gearing up for the start of operations of its 40-MWh battery storage plant in Alaminos Laguna and another 4 MW in Bataan.

AC Energy has about 2,100 MW in renewables capacity and is on track to attain its goal of 5,000 MW of renewables capacity by 2025, becoming the largest renewables platform in Southeast Asia.

It is the listed energy platform of the Ayala Group and has energy investments in Vietnam, Indonesia, India and Australia.

Sports

PLDT, Smart, MVPSF back PH Women’s Football Team PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. , through the MVP Sports Foundation bolster their support for the Philippine Women’s National Football Team after their stellar performance at the recent Asian Cup qualifiers.

“We are very proud of our Women’s National Football team who demonstrated their strength, resilience, and determination to win despite the challenges brought about by the global pandemic. This milestone is a step toward our goal —for the Philippines to qualify in our first ever FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 in Australia,” said Alfredo S. Panlilio, PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications President and CEO. Panlilio is also the President of MVPSF and the First Vice President of the Philippine Olympic Committee.

MVPSF has been supporting the Philippine Football Federation through its various programs. Following the breakthrough win of the Philippine Azkals in 2010, the MVP Group decided to invest in football across the country through the PFF-SMART National Club Championships 2011-2015.

The foundation then began its support of the PFF’s Women’s National Team program when the organization decided to invest in Talent Identification of heritage Filipinas playing in the U.S., the FIFA Women’s World #1 ranked country.

In addition, MVPSF has been actively promoting football at the grassroots level, running leagues for U7, U9, and developing young talents with U11, U13 regional/provincial cluster festivals for both boys and girls.

MVPSF also believes in the PFF Coaches’ Education initiatives including the PFF-MVPSF National Coaches’ Convention to update our local instructors and trainers with the latest trends, Technical and Tactical discussions from FIFA and World Football experts who share knowledge and best practice, to prepare them for developing elite players capable of competing in the international arena.

“We believe in the potential of our athletes who are training under PFF. We also want to build on our network and bring in Filipinas all over the world to train and compete with international athletes as we actively develop and promote the beautiful game of football in the Philippines,” said Jude Turcuato, FVP and Head of Sports at PLDT and Smart, and Executive Director at MVPSF. This program is part of the PLDT Group’s contribution to UN SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. PLDT, Smart, and the MVPSF have always been at the forefront of sports development in the Philippines by empowering Filipino athletes as they represent the country in competitions worldwide.

Endings and beginnings EVEN as we continue to live in this time of a worldwide pandemic, what is good is the world of sports is beginning to awake.

Fact is, there are events here and abroad that have concluded, at the same time that there are those that have just begun.

For women’s volleyball, the Philippines sent two teams, REBISCO and Choco Mucho to the Asian Women’s Club Volleyball championship in Thailand. The teams were composed of young and veteran players in the running for slots in the national team for the Asian championship.

C1

Beermen level PBA series on Lassiter’s late putback

By Peter Atencio

T

ERRENCE Romeo waxed hot in the fourth quarter, while Marcio Lassiter came through with timely hits to carry San Miguel Beer to a 98-96 win over TNT Tropang Giga on Wednesday in Game 2 of the 2021 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup semifinals at the DHVSU Gym in Bacolor, Pampanga.

Romeo came up with 26 points as the Beermen equalized their best-ofseven semifinals series at one win apiece with the Tropang Giga.

The Beermen almost ran into trou-

CHOCO Mucho beat Rebisco, 22-25, 25-17, 25-19, 25-17, in a clash Wednesday of two national teams that have savored the needed international exposure.

“The game was really high energy. It was really a lot of fun to play,” said Choco Mucho main woman Kalei Mau, who scored five points in every set to finish with 20 points in the qualification match of the 21st Asian Women’s Club Volleyball Championship Wednesday at Terminal 21 competition hall in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.

“It was challenging playing against a younger team,” Mau added. “It was really great to be able to just find their tendencies and also work on ours and just work our creativity as a team.”

The victory was the first for Choco Mucho in the tournament and the wards of coach Arthur “Odjie” Mamon now has a chance to finish fifth if they beat Kazahkstan’s Zhetysu at 1:30 p.m. (Manila time) on Thursday.

The loss, on the other hand, sent Rebisco to seventh place in the championship that was the first international exposure of the national teams since the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

It was also a historic showdown as two national teams played each other in an Asian Volleyball Con-

LITO CINCO

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2021

The Philippine Malditas celebrate their win at the Asian Cup qualifying tournament.

ble when Arwind Santos and JuneMar Fajardo bungled their attempts as the buzzer winded down, but Lassiter was there to save the day with a putback for the game winner.

This foiled the Tropang Giga’s bid to move ahead with two straight victories following their 89-88 triumph in Game 1 last Monday.

“It (play) was for JuneMar, then it was for Terrence. It was a good play for him (JuneMar). But he missed the shot. But Marcio was still around, and he had a sense of urgency,” said Beermen coach Leo Austria.

Lassiter’s big play came after the Beermen fought their way out of a 15-point deficit at the start of the fourth period.

With the Tropang Giga enjoying an 82-67 lead, Romeo banged in 17 points, including two triples during an 11-min-

Choco Mucho earns crack at 5th spot

THE BOTTOM LINE

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

federation and International Volleyball Federation competition, according to Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara.

MJ Phillips played her best game in the tournament with 13 points, including seven in the fourth set when Choco Mucho was in control, while Mylene Paat and Dell Palomata added 11 and 10 points, respectively.

Ria Meneses produced four of Choco Mucho’s nine blocks, while Palomata was also solid in defending the net with three blocks.

“Obviously we are still trying to build up and it was a great game by both sides,” said the outside hitter Mau who switched federations middle of this year to be able to join the Philippine national team program that is supported by the Philippine Sports Commission, Rebisco, Taguig Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano and Asics.

For Rebisco’s players, they lost nothing but gained everything in terms of exposure with some Choco Mucho players huddle up. of them accomplishing their senior debut.

“We got to play with our veteran ‘ates [elder siscially us college students.” ters]. It was really a very good experience for us Dindin Santiago-Manabat chipped in 11 points, while Mhiyounger girls and we have learned a lot,” said Faith caela Belen, who at 19 is the youngest in the national squad, Nisperos, who led Rebisco with 12 kills. “This exmade 10 points. perience has been a very good step for us, espeMamon admitted the victory was bittersweet.

But just as the competition there has moved to the next phase, both our teams have ended their participation after losing all their games in their respective groups, just to show you the high level of play in the tournament.

Fans were naturally disappointed, hoping for maybe slots in the next phase. But then, on my side, I was not really surprised. Just look at the world rankings in volleyball and you will know what I mean about the disparity in reality against the fans’ expectations.

The national women’s team is a work in progress right now. It will take time, but the realistic side of me will still ask, why have we not moved up to now at the international level? Enough said.

There is a similarity in women’s basketball. We sent our Gilas team to Jordan for the FIBA-Asia Women’s Cup. The result? We retained our slot in the Group A side in Asia after beating India in our very last game, all the other games the girls played, we lost by wide margins. But then again, look at the world-ranked countries in the field, most of them are in the Top 10 in the Tokyo Olympics.

What is the point? Both women’s volley-

ball and basketball are in the same boat as far as preparation and training of the team are concerned. The advantage of women’s volleyball, though, is its big fan base compared to women’s basketball.

Which is also why volleyball had commercial leagues in the past, while basketball still has to move off the ground for its own commercial league.

Leaving the distaff side of the sports, the NBA has just started its pre-season games, with seeded teams Los Angeles Lakers facing off against the Brooklyn Nets.

Unfortunately, both teams opted to rest their big guns, and with the recent revamp and buildup by the Lakers, the result was a lopsided victory for the Nets.

But I agree with the predictions. On paper, these two teams should be up there, ahead even of the defending champion Mikwaukee Bucks and last season’s runner up the Atlanta Hawks.

But the NBA deserves a full piece just to dissect and discuss the different contenders and the player trades that happened, a lot of them major trades, with some, like Ben Simmons, still a question mark.

Back to the local scene in basketball, the PBA has ended its quarterfinals and just started its semifinal series for the remaining four teams.

TNT and super team San Miguel Beer are facing each other, and if Game 1 is the basis, with the former edging out the Beermen by a single point, fans are in for a close series. But I will say, too, that the Beermen can blow out TNT in the remaining games and reach the finals anew.

The other semifinal series, also featuring an MVP Group versus San Miguel Corporation faceoff, has Magnolia squaring off against Meralco, with the SMC team taking Game 1.

But just like the NBA, I believe the subject deserves a longer dissertation. Looking at the odds and again, the “who will win-who will lose” guessing game.

By the time you read this, it is either the teams that won Game 1 will be up 2-0, or the losing teams have evened up the best-of-seven series. My wild guesses, the Beermen will tie the series, while Magnolia will be up 2-0.

I am not betting any money, though, on these “fearful” predictions, okay?

ute stretch.

Romeo’s jumper with 1:23 left put SMB to within a point at 92-93.

Then, Lassiter, who only had seven points in the game, levelled the tally at 93-all in the final minute with a split charity.

Lassiter’s second and game-winning basket with no time left put to naught the heroics of Troy Rosario, who tied the match at 96-all with a trey, with 6.4 seconds remaining.

Fajardo had 22 points and 10 rebounds for the Beermen.

Roger Pogoy top-scored with 21 points for TNT, while Rosario had 14 points.

Young PH lifter bags bronze in world meet JEANETH Hipolito, considered as one of the country’s future bets in international meets, claimed a medal for the Philippines in the opener of the 2021 IWF Youth World Championships late Tuesday evening (Manila time).

The 14-year-old Hipolito settled for a bronze medal with a 52-kg lift in the snatch event of the girls’ division when Day 1 ended in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Her performance impressed Samahang Weighlifting ng Pilipinas president Monico Puentevella, who believes that she will someday make it to the Olympics.

“She’s one of our future Olympians. With proper support and training, she’ll make it to future Olympics, too. She’s got the determination,” said Puentevella.

Hipolito lifted a final attempt of 52 kgs in the snatch, after carrying 48 kgs and 51 kgs in first and second tries.

A clean and jerk of 62 kgs brought her to a total of 114 kgs, placing Hipolito in fifth place overall in the tournament.

Turkey’s Ezgi Kilic swept the event with three gold medals after leading the snatch event with a lift of 55 kgs, followed by 70 kgs in the clean and jerk, and an overall of 125 kgs.

Colombia’s Lawren Sofia Estrada Velez settled for the silver with a lift of 118 kgs and a 53 kgs in the snatch for the silver.

Darly Marely Canto Colli (MEX) bagged the silver in the clean and jerk at 67 kgs, before she settled for the bronze with her 118-kg total.

Hipolito is in Jeddah with Adrian Cristobal and Albert Ian Delos Santos, who are entered in the men’s 55 and 61 kgs, respectively.

Joining them are Rosejean Ramos (women’s 45 kgs), Christian Rodriguez (men’s 67 kgs) and Lovely Inan (women’s 49 kgs). Peter Atencio

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TODAY ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION

11.

SMCGPH prepared its Bid Proposal strictly in accordance with “ITB-1 BIDDING DOCUMENTS” provided under the FITB more particularly but not limited to “ITB-Annex A”.

12.

During the Opening of Bids held on 12 February 2021, the Bid Proposal of SMCGPH appeared to be compliant with all the required PreQualification Documents pursuant to the FITB and related issuances by the 1BP DU JCSP.

13.

On 26 April 2021, SMCGPH received the Notice of Post Disqualification7 (the “NPD”) which states - - - “xxx xxx based on the Post-Qualification conducted by the 1BP JCSP TPBAC, your bid was found to be NonResponsive”. The relevant portions of the NDP provides:

Pasig City

IN THE MATTER OF PETITION FOR DISPUTE RESOLUTION ARISING FROM THE ONE BOHOL POWER DISTRIBUTION UTILITIES (“1BP DU”) JOINT COMPETITIVE SELECTION PROCESS (“JCSP”) THROUGH AN OPEN BIDDING FOR THE LONG-TERM (20242033) SUPPLY OF THE BASELOAD POWER REQUIREMENTS OF 1BP DU, WITH PRAYER FOR STATUS QUO ANTE ORDER, BY WAY OF INTERIM RELIEF, SMC GLOBAL POWER HOLDINGS CORP., Petitioner, -versus-

OFFERED POWER PLANT

Respondent. x-----------------------------------------------------------x

NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES:

I. Nature and Bases of Jurisdiction

14.

The instant Petition for Dispute Resolution (the “Petition for Dispute”) is hereby filed by SMCGPH before the Honorable Energy Regulatory Commission (to be referred to as the “Honorable Commission” and/ or the “ERC”) to assail the validity and to secure the consequential reversal /invalidation of a Resolution dated 19 May 2021 (the “May 2021 Resolution”) issued by herein Respondent 1BP DU JCSP Committee (to be referred to as the “Respondent” for brevity), in relation to the JCSP for the long term supply of the baseload power requirements of 1BP DU. The May 2021 Resolution (a copy of which is attached as Annex “A” hereof) denied the protest of SMCGPH which the latter has filed before the Respondent via a Verified Position Paper (to be referred herein as the “Protest” and / or the Verified Position Paper). The Protest dated 12 May 2021 (a copy of which is attached as Annex “B”) assailed the Notice of Denial of the Request for Reconsideration (the “NDRR”) dated 06 May 2021 issued by the Third-Party Bids and Awards Committee (the “TPBAC”) of the 1BP DU JCSP (the “1BP TPBAC”). The pertinent provisions of the NDRR (a copy of which is attached as Annex “C”) provide: 15.

(u) The ERC shall have the original and exclusive jurisdiction over all cases contesting rates, fees, fines and penalties imposed by the ERC in the exercise of the above-mentioned powers, functions and responsibilities and over all cases involving disputes between and among participants or players in the energy sector. (Emphasis supplied)

iii. Bohol Light Company, Inc. (“BLCI”) by – 1. Acting General Manager – Eleuterio C. Regis; and, 2. Corporate Secretary – Remegio Michael A. Ancheta II. c. Respondent and its members can be served with summons, orders and other correspondence by the Honorable Commission in its designated address at BOHEC I Main Office Bldg., Cabulijan, Tubigon, Bohol 6329 and at its electronic mail (“e-mail”) address at 1boholpowerdu@gmail.com.

III.

10.

In response to the invitation to bid published on 30 August 2020 by 1BP DU JCSP for the “1BP DU JCSP Competitive Selection Process through an Open Bidding for the long-term (2024-2033) supply of the baseload power requirements of 1BP DUs” (the “Bidding 6 ”), SMCGPH submitted its Letter of Intent (“LOI”) to Participate and Submit Offer and proof of payment of the Bidding Document Fee on 08 September 2020.

On 30 October 2020, the 1BP DU JCSP TPBAC (to be referred to as “1BP TPBAC” for brevity) issued the FITB. The particular portion of the FITB relevant to this protest is “ITB-Annex A: Terms of Reference”, to wit:

Concerning the “zero-outage power supply” requirement as stated in the NRDD as affirmed by the May 2021 Resolution, from a technical standpoint there is no standalone power plant designed on the basis of the contracted energy provided that can operate without any outage particularly in connection with regular maintenance. If 1BP DU will insist on a demand profile based on the following: 83MW, 24/7 flat-out and 100% CUF, and zero-outage, the appropriate power plant design will require two (2) units of the 83MW power blocks.

34.

But in this case, 1BP DU should have just indicated such demand profile in the FITB as its Contracted Energy requirement. However, as discussed above, 1BP DU, effectively its constituents, will just overpay for such an overbuilt power plant which is not necessary given its historical demand profile.

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35.

The implication of blindly requiring the 24/7 requirement and the utter disregard of SMCGPH’s optimal plant design based on the declared Contracted Capacity as stated in the FITB is relatively simple: the electricity costs for the Boholanos will unnecessarily increase considerably!

36.

For the sake of discussion, requiring a 24/7 power supply in the parlance of the local power industry, actually means a financial commitment on the part of the supplier to guarantee supply over such period rather than building an oversized power plant in order to accommodate the 24/7 demand requirement without the benefit of any outage, whether for planned or unplanned maintenance.

SMCGPH timely filed its Request for Reconsideration (“Request for Recon.”) dated 06 May 2021 (attached as Annex “F”) and maintains among others that the technical proposal:

37.

The preceding arrangement normally requires the generator to provide replacement power during the time when the nominated power plant is out for maintenance. The financial risks on the replacement power will be for the account of the generator. The “zero-outage power supply” should be interpreted as the capability of the generator to provide the replacement power when the main Plant is unavailable due to either planned or unplanned outages.

38.

The proposed Plant of SMCGPH has been designed optimally to achieve the lowest possible cost of power for the Boholanos based on a configuration and plant specifications that are sufficient to meet the energy requirements of 1BP DU and other technical requirements under the FITB for the Bidding.

39.

The BESS component was integrated in the proposed Plant to ensure an accurate, fast and cost-effective response to the load following or peaking changes, as well as improve significantly the power quality delivered to 1BP DU that can be the anchor for industrialization in the Bohol island.

40.

Over the supply period, the Plant is also expected to provide the required power stability and security of the Bohol grid interconnection, and at the same time ensure the island’s power independence in the event that it is disconnected from the Visayas Grid.

Further and most importantly, SMCGPH argues in its Request for Recon. that - - -

The Respondent erred when it affirmed the ruling of 1BP TPBAC in the latter’s interpretation of 1BP DU’s required “In-island Resiliency”.

41.

The judicious wisdom of the Honorable Committee is hereby invited to a more accurate definition of the technical term “resiliency”.

42.

It is the ability of the power system to anticipate, resist, absorb, respond to and adapt to and recover from a disturbance based on local and international power systems parlance. Unfortunately, 1BP TPBAC (as affirmed by the Respondent in the assailed May 2021 Resolution) has misused the technical term by concluding that “resiliency” pertains to the capacity of the generating plant installed under the “in-island resiliency” concept.

43.

With due respect, Respondent must be guided on the foregoing point that “power generation is only a part of a resilient power system”.

Metrics for a well resilient power system actually involve the ability of transmission, sub-transmission and distribution systems to recover from a typhoon as an example.

44.

Such systems are vulnerable to outages due to natural disturbances.

Resiliency is not 100% anchored to the availability of the generating plant and in fact most resilient power systems globally have strong transmission and distribution grids and these systems have the ability to respond efficiently after calamities and even cyber-attacks.

45.

To emphasize the contribution of the BESS in resiliency, the proposed SMCGPH’s Plant coupled with BESS will help increase the resiliency of the system during grid outage as well as distribution system outages of the 1BP DU.

46.

The subject Plant can stand on its own without the operational assistance from the grid since it is designed to have black-start (through the BESS) and fast start capabilities (both BESS and NatGas). The response of the Plant will be optimized to efficiently dispatch in a timely manner to support the restoration strategies of 1BP DU.

47.

It must be highlighted also at this point that SMCGPH’s proposal includes the construction of additional 69 kV sub-transmission lines that will connect the sub-transmission backbones of the three (3) Bohol DUs to further improve power exchanges within the Bohol Island and increase reliability (thus support to resiliency also) during times of outages of some parts of the sub-transmission backbone.

“The Committee therefore affirms the assailed NDRR. WHEREFORE, premises considered, the instant Protest is hereby DENIED. APPROVED this 19th day of May 2021 by the following members of the 1BP Joint CSP Committee: xxx xxx xxx”.

19.

IV.

Hence, this Petition for Dispute Resolution for the reversal and or nullification of the May 2019 Resolution issued by the Respondent.

Grounds for the grant of this petition.

20.

SMCGPH maintains and so holds that its Bid Proposal more particularly the technical aspect thereof is responsive and compliant with the FITB for the 1BP DU JCSP. In support thereof, SMCGPH humbly submits the following as the entrenching justifications for the grant of this petition, thus: a. The dependable capacity of the proposed Plant of SMCGPH is sufficient to meet the Contracted Energy requirement of 1BP DU as stated in the FITB. b. The Contracted Energy requirement stated in the NPD, NDRR and in the assailed May 2019 Resolution is inconsistent with the 24/7 flatout supply of the required capacity of 83MW and zerooutage plant to supply 1BP as specified in the FITB which is the sole basis of SMCGPH in its Bid Proposal. c. The Respondent erred when it affirmed the ruling of 1BP TPBAC in the latter’s interpretation of 1BP DU’s required “In-island Resiliency”. d. Credit Factor of the BESS should be treated as 100% contrary to the assailed NDRR’s claim of 50% as erroneously affirmed by the May 2021 Resolution. e. The reversal of the May 2021 Resolution will best serve the interests of the consumer-members of 1BP DU.

Credit Factor of the BESS should be treated as 100% contrary to the assailed NDRR’s claim of 50% as erroneously affirmed by the May 2021 Resolution.

48.

The credit factor of the BESS facility is 100% on the basis of dependable capacity. The BESS with rated capacity of 25MW has a dependable capacity of 25MW when dispatched following its technical specifications.

49.

Similarly, like conventional power plants, the 25MW in whole or in part can be spread to support 1BP’s consumption profile. To reiterate, BESS was incorporated to the design of the Plant considering the contracted energy requirement of 1BP DU at 70% CUF. On this basis, the BESS is capable to provide supply during peak hours when it is actually needed.

50.

Hence, contrary to the assailed May 2021 Resolution, NDRR and NPD, the total effective capacity of the BESS is 25MW and the Plant is 85MW. Thus, SMCGPH’s Bid Proposal should have been ruled as RESPONSIVE in the Bidding that was conducted.

V. Arguments / Discussions 21.

SMCGPH staunchly argues that the Respondent erred when it affirmed the findings in the NDRR that the Bid Proposal (i.e., technical proposal) of SMCGPH is Non-Responsive.

22.

It is for this reason that the discerning wisdom of the Honorable Committee is hereby earnestly sought through this petition for the reversal of such findings based on the following disquisitions.

The reversal of the May 2021 Resolution will best serve the interests of the consumermembers of 1BP DU. 51.

SMCGPH would like to seek solace to the compassionate and astute wisdom of the Honorable Commission to the utter disregard by Respondent of the welfare and interest of the consumer-members of the 1BP DU when it issued the repudiated May 2021 Resolution. It is worthy to be quoted that should the technical discussions/justifications of SMCGPH have been considered by the Respondent, it will definitely improve the power supply within the island.

52.

Thence, SMCGPH hereby ardently would grab this opportunity to implore upon the Honorable Commission’s sagacity in the evaluation of this Petition for Dispute. While technical justifications are already present for the reversal of the May 2021 Resolution, SMCGPH pleads before the Honorable Commission that the interests of the Boholanos should also be placed at the forefront hereof.

53.

The attention of the Honorable Commission is hereby invited to the opportunity that will be available to the consumer-members of 1BP DU with the grant of a favorable ruling on this petition. The proposed Plant with a correlative technical proposal of SMCGPH is optimally designed to achieve the lowest possible cost of power based on a configuration and plant specifications that are sufficient to meet the energy requirements of 1BP DU and other technical requirements under the FITB.

The dependable capacity of the proposed Plant of SMCGPH is sufficient to meet the Contracted Energy requirement of 1BP DU. 23.

Pursuant to the bidding documents, the “ITB-ANNEX A: TERMS OF REFERENCE” of the Final Instructions to Bidders (“FITB”) issued by 1BP DU JCSP TPBAC, the demand and energy profile can be supplied sufficiently by SMCGPH’s proposed Plant, 1 x 60 MW (net) Simple Cycle Natural Gas Unit (“Nat Gas”) and 25 MW, 4-hour Battery Energy Storage System (“BESS”).

24.

As stated in the technical proposal, the Plant can run its net rated capacity with plant availability factors of 98% and 100% for Nat Gas and BESS, respectively. It is important to clarify that the operating capability of the latter (i.e., BESS) entails running at a rated capacity of 25 MW for four (4) hours in one full cycle with up to three (3) cycles in a day.

25.

To reiterate, comparing the annual Contracted Energy at 70% Capacity Utilization Factor (“CUF”) as provided in the FITB for the entire duration of the supply period and with the available generation of the proposed Plant, it is self-evident that SMCGPH’s technical proposal meets the generation requirements of 1BP DU and should thus be considered responsive for the purpose of the JCSP. For a better appreciation of these technical elucidations, attached as Annex “G” is the Comparison of Contracted Energy of 1BP DUs with Available Net Generation from the SMCGPH Proposed Plant.

54.

Hence, it can be reasonably assumed that the available generation from the Nat Gas unit operating on a baseload basis can support the charging of the BESS component running whether at one (1) or up to three (3) cycles per day.

To reiterate at the brink of being repetitive but for purposes of emphasizing prominence of SMCGPH’s Bid Proposal, the BESS component was integrated in the proposed Plant to ensure an accurate, fast, and costeffective response to the load following or peaking changes, as well as to significantly improve the quality of power to be delivered by 1BP DU that can be the catalyst for industrialization in their respective franchise areas.

55.

The configuration of the Plant ensures that it has an adequate supply of generation capacity to reliably meet the 1BP DUs’ combined energy demand (whether coincident or non-coincident in nature) during the highest-demand periods in any given year over the power supply period.

The immediately preceding disquisitions were even fortified by SMCGPH’s proposal to construct an additional 69 kV sub-transmission lines that will connect the sub-transmission backbones of the three (3) Bohol DU to further improve the quality of power in the Island.

56.

Over the supply period, the Plant is expected to provide the required power security of the Bohol grid interconnection for stability and resiliency, and at the same ensure the island’s power independence in the event that it is disconnected from the Visayas Grid.

57.

Guided by the interest and welfare of the Boholanos which is a shared responsibility between 1BP DU and the Provincial Government of Bohol (“Bohol LGU”), it must be emphasized that the JCSP for the Bidding was made possible not only by the cooperation of the members of the 1BP DU but also through the initiative of the Bohol LGU with the creation of the Bohol Energy Development Advisory Group (“BDEAG”).

58.

As reflected in the Memorandum of Agreement 9 between the members of the 1BP DU (as amended by a Supplemental Agreement executed in the year 201910), the Bidding was conducted “in order to achieve affordability, reliability and resiliency of power supply in the island of Bohol11”.

59.

Succinctly, the refuted May 2019 Resolution (which affirmed the NDRR) is nothing but an affront not only against the Boholanos but likewise to Bohol LGU which has diligently performed its mandate by ensuring that the consumer-members of the 1BP DU will have an opportunity to enjoy an affordable reliable and resilient power supply within the island. To this, SMCGPH humbly asseverates that the reversal of the May 2019 Resolution is not only proper under the circumstances but is in keeping with the efforts that were exerted/performed by the members of 1BP DU and Bohol LGU for the interests and welfare of the Boholanos.

60.

The favorable action of the Honorable Commission to this petition will not only redound to the interests of SMCGPH as a veritable bidder but most importantly to the welfare/interests of the consumer-members of 1BP DU. The benefits that can be sourced from the objectives of SMCGPH in its Bid Proposal (i.e., stable supply and minimized costs of power) will be denied to the consumer-members of 1BP DU if this

Factual Antecedents 9.

5 (4 hours duration/day)

However, in the afternoon of 19 May 2021, SMCGPH received via e-mail the assailed resolution of equal date, the dispositive portions of which provide:

Respondent 1BP DU JCSP Committee “refers to the association composed of the General Managers, Board Presidents and authorized representatives of 1BP tasked to ratify and confirm all previous actions of the 1BP DU JCSP TPBAC4”.

ii. Bohol II Electric Cooperative, Inc. (“BOHECO II”) by 1. Board President – Rodulfo O. Tutor; and 2. General Manager - Eugenio R. Tan;

Battery

18.

Petitioner SMCGPH is an entity duly organized, registered and is existing in accordance with the prevailing laws of the Republic of the Philippines with principal office address at 155 EDSA, Brgy., WackWack, Mandaluyong City. As will be discussed below, petitioner passed the required Pre-Qualification Documents for bidders pursuant to the Final Instructions to Bidders3 (“FITB”) and related issuances by the 1BP DU JCSP. SMCGPH can be served with summons, orders, and other correspondence by the Honorable Commission through the undersigned counsel and his electronic mail (email) address indicated below.

i. Bohol I Electric Cooperative, Inc. (“BOHECO I”) by 1. Board President – Marcial P. Degamo; and, 2. General Manager – Dino Nicolas F. Roxas;

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BESS Phase 2

SMCGPH elevated the NDRR before the Respondent via a Verified Position Paper in accordance with the provisions of Section 13.1 of DC 2018 issued by the “DOE”, coupled with the payment of the “nonrefundable protest fee of Php5,000,000.00 on May 12, 2021, within the seven-day reglementary period xxx xxx 8”.

II. The Parties

b. As reflected in the assailed May 2021 Resolution, the following are the members of the Respondent represented by their respective board presidents and general managers:

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20 (4 hours duration/day)

17.

Conclusively with the foregoing, the Honorable Commission has jurisdiction over this case.

a. Pursuant to Section 13.1 of Department Circular No. 201802-0003 (“DC 2018”) issued by the Department of Energy (the “DOE”), 1BP DU is the so called “governing board of the DU or its duly authorized office/s5”.

60 (Net)

Battery

Despite the elucidating arguments posited by SMCGPH, 1BP TPBAC issued the NDRR where it reiterated its findings that SMCGPH as a “bidder is NON-RESPONSIVE”.

The jurisdiction of the ERC over the parties in this case was likewise established by the provisions2 of the EPIRA Law to wit:

xxx xxx xxx”

8.

NATGAS

BESS Phase 1

16.

“Electric Power Industry Participant” refers to any person or entity engaged in the generation, transmission, distribution or supply of electricity;

7.

LNG POWER PLANT

“Comparing the annual Contracted Energy at 70% CUF as provided in the FITB for the entire duration of the supply period and with the available generation of the proposed Plant, it is self-evident that our technical proposal meets the generation requirements of 1BP DU and should thus be considered responsive for the purpose of this JCSP as shown in Annex “B” hereof. It can be reasonably assumed that the available generation from the Nat Gas unit operating on a baseload basis can support the charging of the BESS component running whether at one (1) or up to three (3) cycles per day.”

xxx xxx xxx

6.

DELIVERY PERIOD

c. consists of a Plant that can run its net rated capacity with plant availability factors of 98% and 100% for Nat Gas and BESS, respectively. It is important to clarify that the operating capability of the latter (i.e., BESS) entails running at a rated capacity of 25 MW for four (4) hours in one full cycle with up to three (3) cycles in a day. This means four (4) hours of discharge and charge operations per cycle in a day.

The original and exclusive jurisdiction of the Honorable Commission over the instant Petition for Dispute is hereby invoked for the reversal of the May 2021 Resolution issued by the Respondent based on the following provisions of Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 20011 - - -

Further, the filing of this petition is also anchored on the provisions of the Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure of the Honorable Commission (the “ERC Rules”). Rule 5, Section 4 of the ERC Rules provides that: “By means of a petition, a person, other than an applicant or complainant, seeks an affirmative relief under any statute or other authority delegated to the Commission”.

CAPACITY (MW)

b. is compliant with the demand and energy profile provided in ITBAnnex A considering that the proposal is to develop a proposed facility consisting of 1 x 60 MW (net) Simple Cycle Natural Gas Unit (“Nat Gas”) and ultimately 25 MW, 4- hour Battery Energy Storage System (“BESS”), (collectively referred to as the “Plant”); and,

“SEC. 43. Functions of the ERC. –The ERC shall promote competition, encourage market development, ensure customer choice and penalize abuse of market power in the restructured electricity industry. In appropriate cases, the ERC is authorized to issue cease and desist order after due notice and hearing.

Towards this end, it shall be responsible for the following key functions in the restructured industry:”

5.

33.

a. meets the generation requirements of 1BP DU and thus be considered responsive for the purpose of JCSP;

“Finally, premises considered, the 1BP TPBAC DENIES the request for reconsideration of SMCGPH and reiterates its finding that the said bidder is NON-RESPONSIVE”.

4.

To fortify our position on this, based on the historical demand consumption of 1BP, the actual average flat-out capacity utilized by 1BP DU were about 31 MW, 36 MW and 45 MW in 2017, 2018 and 2019 respectively and actual results do not support the TPBAC’s interpretation that the 83MW will be used flat-out, 24/7 at 100% CUF.

It would mean that the technical proposal of SMC Global Power Holdings Corp. is not compliant to the zero outage provision, 24/7 resiliency and baseload requirements as specified and clarified in the bidding documents.

The pertinent allegations of the said Petition are hereunder quoted as follows:

3.

PLANT TYPE

Based on the above information, the total capacity of 25-MW Battery Energy Storage System with discharge operation of only equivalent to 4 hours per day, as clearly specified by SMC in its technical proposal, would result to a deficiency to the 24/7 83-MW 1BP baseload demand requirement.

Notice is hereby given that on On August 23, 2021, SMC GLOBAL POWER HOLDINGS CORP. (SMCGPH), filed a Petition for Dispute Resolution dated 25 May 2021 (Petition), seeking the Commission to resolve its dispute arising from One Bohol Power Distribution utilities (1BP-DU) Joint Competitive Selection Process (JCSP) through an open bidding for the long-term (2024-2033) supply of the baseload power requirements of 1BP-DU, with prayer for status quo ante order, by way of interim relief.

2.

32.

Based on the detailed evaluation of the technical proposal of SMC Global Power Holdings Corp. (“SMC”), their offer is a ‘multiple IN-Island power plants’ with the following information:

ERC CASE NO. 2021-004 DR

1BP DU JCSP COMMITTEE,

1.

per hour. And again, the historical consumption is consistent with the indicated 70% CUF which is the basis of minimum energy or contracted energy.

26.

27.

28.

Further, the proposed BESS facility will be able to adequately and adeptly supply the load following or peak portion of 1BP DUs demand regardless of the actual dispersion of their individual peak hours because the BESS could react to load changes at the millisecond level (typically guaranteed to a minimum of 200 ms). BESS can shift its generation to perfectly match with the peak demand requirement thus resulting to levelling the load of the DUs for a more efficient balance of the demand and supply.

The Contracted Energy requirement stated in the NPD, NDRR and in the assailed May 2019 Resolution is inconsistent with the 24/7 supply of the required capacity of 83 MW and zerooutage plant to supply 1BP as specified in the FITB which is the sole basis of SMCGPH in its Bid Proposal.

29.

It must be stressed at this juncture that Respondent should realize that the proposed 83 MW contracted capacity will not be consumed 24/7 flatout at 100% CUF. Suffice to say that this understanding of the TPBAC is contrary to what the FITB contains in (a) above (i.e., 70% CUF).

30.

SMCGPH made a careful assessment and evaluation of the true requirement of 1BP following the FITB as well as its realistic power requirement. Based on the historical hourly demand provided by 1BP for the years 2017, 2018 and 2019, the load factors of 1 BP DU were only at 64%, 68% and 70% respectively, thus strongly fortified the requirement under the FITB which is 70% CUF.

31.

For this purpose, attached are the aggregated yearly load profiles and average hourly load profiles of 1BP DU for reference as Annex “H”.

These suggest that the 1BP DU operationally will not require the 24/7 flatout supply of the 83 MW but instead, has varying demand requirement

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Simply put it, the denial of this plea is tantamount to the forfeiture of the opportunities as discussed, of no less than the concerned consumer-members, which is not aligned to one of the primary objectives of Bohol LGU and the prevailing government issuances on competitive selection process.

VI. Justifications for the issuance of Status Quo Ante Order 62.

SMCGPH by way of incorporation hereby repleads the foregoing discussions to fortify its grounds for the issuance of a Status Quo Ante Order (the “SQAO”) by way of a provisional remedy and or interim relief pending the resolution of this case.

63.

Peremptorily, SMCGPH would like to stress that its plea for SQAO is not intended to prevent or restrain the Bidding or any proceeding related thereto or the selection of the Winning Bidder and the execution of the power supply agreement.

64.

Instead, SMCGPH is seeking for a writ to maintain the status quo prior to the issuance of the NPD, NDRR and the assailed May 2019 Resolution, which will reinstate SMCGPH’s Bid Proposal to its “Responsive Status” in the JCSP for 1BP DU power requirements.

65.

Under the Rules of Court, which is suppletorily applicable herein12, a preliminary injunction can be an order which “may also require the performance of a particular act or acts, in which case it shall be known as a preliminary mandatory injunction13”.

66.

By way of analogy, in the case of Solid Builders Inc., vs. China Banking Corporation 14 (the “SBI Case”), the Supreme Court ruled that “mandatory injunction is rather to establish and maintain a preexisting continuing relation between the parties, recently and arbitrarily interrupted by the defendant, than to establish a new relation”. Further, it was echoed in the SBI case that a writ of preliminary injunction is issued “to preserve the status quo ante 15 , upon the applicant’s showing of two important requisite conditions, namely: (1) the right to be protected exists prima facie, and (2) the acts sought to be enjoined are violative of that right. It must be proven that the violation sought to be prevented would cause an irreparable injury”.

67.

Gauged from the preceding dictum by analogy, SMCGPH is entitled to a SQAO. As discussed above, SMCGPH’s right as a Bidder (with a responsive bid) exists which was frivolously affected and has been violated by the erroneously issued May 2019 Resolution by the Respondent.

68.

SMCGPH will definitely suffer irreparable injury should its bid will not be reinstated as a “responsive bid” during the pendency of this case, more so in view of the merits thereof.

69.

As of date and in the coming days, the 1BP DU TPBAC will continue in the evaluation of the other bids without the valid and responsive Bid Proposal of SMCGPH, which as discussed above is far more beneficial to the consumer-members of the 1BP DU. It should be emphasized in this case that SMCGPH will not be the only party who will definitely suffer an irreparable injury, but most importantly the power consumers of Bohol Island who will be deprived of the opportunity to be supplied with a reliable, sustainable and reasonable cost of energy.

70.

SMCGPH instituted this case before the Honorable Commission unarguably because it has the power to grant provisional remedies as settled in the case of BF Homes, Inc., et.al., vs, Meralco16.

71.

Faith and reliance of SMCGPH to the mandate of the Honorable Commission to provide an immediate remedy hereof was fortified by the provisions of Rule 14 of the ERC Rules which authorizes the grant of an interim relief with or without hearing on the basis of the allegations in the petition or supporting documents that a petitioner has submitted for the evaluation of the ERC.

72.

SMCGPH is ready and is willing to post a bond in an amount to be fixed by the Honorable Commission which will be answerable to damages that may be sustained by the Respondent in the remote possibility that it may be adjudged to be not entitled to the SQAO prayed for herein.

73.

Guided the foregoing, SMCGPH humbly seeks the benevolent wisdom of the Honorable Commission to issue SQAO by way of an interim relief pursuant to the ERC Rules.

PRAYER

WHEREFORE, premises considered, petitioner SMC Global Power Holdings Corp., respectfully prays before the Honorable Commission to: 1.

Immediately issue upon filing of this Petition for Dispute, a Preliminary Mandatory Injunction (Status Quo Ante Order) by way of an Interim Relief, reinstating SMCGPH’s Bid Proposal to its Responsive Status pending the resolution of this case;

2.

Convert the Preliminary Mandatory Injunction (Status Quo Ante Order) to a Permanent Injunction after hearing on the merits; and,

3.

Render judgment declaring the Bid Proposal of SMCGPH, more particularly the technical proposal thereof to be RESPONSIVE for all intents and purposes.

Other reliefs just and equitable under the circumstances are likewise prayed for.

The Commission has set the instant Petition for determination of compliance with the jurisdictional requirements, expository presentation, pre-trial conference and presentation of evidence on the following dates and online platform for the conduct thereof, pursuant to pursuant to Resolution 09, Series 0f 202017, dated 24 September 2020 and Resolution No. 01, Series of 2021, dated 17 December 2020 (ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure)18: Date

Platform

Activity

22 October 2021 at nine o’clock in the morning (9:00 AM)

Microsoft Teams

Determination of compliance with the jurisdictional requirements and Expository Presentation

29 October 2021 at nine o’clock in the morning (9:00 AM) (02:00 A.M.)

Microsoft Teams

Pre-trial Conference and Presentation of Evidence

Any interested stakeholder may submit its comments and/or clarifications at least one (1) calendar day prior to the scheduled virtual hearing, via electronic mail (e-mail) at docket@erc.ph, copy furnish the Legal Service through legal@erc.ph.

The Commission shall give priority to the stakeholders who have duly submitted their respective comments and/or clarifications, to discuss the same and propound questions during the course of the expository presentation.

Moreover, all persons who have an interest in the subject matter of the instant case may become a party by filing with the Commission via e-mail at docket@ erc.ph, copy furnish the Legal Service through legal@erc.ph, a verified Petition to Intervene at least five (5) calendar days prior to the date of the initial virtual hearing and subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure, indicating therein the docket number and title of the case and stating the following: 1) The petitioner’s name, mailing address, and email address; 2) The nature of petitioner’s interest in the subject matter of the proceeding and the way and manner in which such interest is affected by the issues involved in the proceeding; and

finds new home in GMA Kuya Kim Atienza embraces a new chapter in his life as a Kapuso.

T

ELEVISION host Kim Atienza explains his transfer from ABSCBN, his home network, to GMA 7.

“It was a tough decision to make. What’s even harder was, I’m friends with my bosses and they took good care of me. In my 17 years with ABS-CBN, those three days two weeks ago were the hardest. It was three days in a row and those were three bosses that I had to say goodbye to,” Kuya Kim shared in a virtual junket a day after his grand welcome in GMA on Oct. 4.

The grand welcome was made on the network’s flagship newscast 24 Oras where Kuya Kim will soon be seen as one of its segment hosts.

He received welcome messages from Kapuso stars and executives led

by GMA Network Chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe L. Gozon.

“Nothing happens by accident. I was given this opportunity by GMA-7 and I intend to make the most out of this opportunity,” he said.

Apart from 24 Oras, the 54-year-old triathlete, wellness and biodiversity advocate will also be part of Mars Pa More and GTV’s upcoming news magazine show Dapat Alam Mo. Meanwhile, speaking to Manila Standard Entertainment, Kuya Kim likened the feeling of jumping from ABS-CBN to GMA to the experience OFWs go through whenever they leave their families behind to look for better opportunities elsewhere.

“When you leave, it doesn’t mean that you no longer love your family. I’m stepping into an opportunity that is so good that it would be a sin not to be able to take it. I’m sad, it was bittersweet. They were sad to lose me and I was sad that I had to say goodbye to them, but the opportunity that GMA offered was so good and it felt that it was the

Likewise, all other persons who may want their views known to the Commission with respect to the subject matter of the case may file through e-mail at docket@ erc.ph, copy furnish the Legal Service through legal@erc.ph, their Opposition or Comment thereon at least five (5) calendar days prior to the initial virtual hearing and subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure. No particular form of Opposition or Comment is required, but the document, letter, or writing should contain the following: 1) The name, mailing address, and e-mail address of such person; 2) A concise statement of the Opposition or Comment; and 3) The grounds relied upon.

Any of the persons mentioned in the preceding paragraphs may access the copy of the Petition on the Commission’s official website at www.erc.gov.ph.

Finally, all interested persons may be allowed to join the scheduled initial virtual hearing by providing the Commission, thru legal.virtualhearings@erc.ph, with their respective e-mail addresses and indicating therein the case number of the instant Petition. The Commission will send the access link/s to the aforementioned hearing platform within five (5) working days prior to the scheduled hearing.

WITNESS, the Honorable Commissioners ALEXIS M. LUMBATAN, CATHERINE P. MACEDA, FLORESINDA G. BALDO-DIGAL and MARKO ROMEO L. FUENTES, Energy Regulatory Commission, this 20th day of September 2021 in Pasig City.

THE Asian Academy Creative Awards 2021, Asia Pacific’s most prestigious award for creative excellence, recently named TV5 as recipient of five national awards in top categories, bringing honor to the Philippines in the upcoming awarding ceremony and gala night in December this Maja Salvador wins as Best year.

In what is hailed as the Asian Emmys, Actress for her role in 'Niña TV5 bested entries from various networks Niño.' and content providers in the country by bagging the highly coveted major awards for Best Drama Series (Niña Niño), Best Actress in a Leading Role (Maja Salvador for Niña Niño), Best Non-Scripted Entertainment (Sing Galing), Best Adaptation of an Existing Format (The Wall Philippines), and Best Promo/Trailer (Iba sa 5).

“This welcome recognition from a distinguished international institution strengthens our resolve to continue providing quality content that raises the bar for Philippine entertainment and inspires us to constantly produce world-class programs,” said Robert P. Galang, TV5 and Cignal CEO and President.

The Asian Academy Creative Awards 2021’s Grand Awards is

Jayda’s music videos receive nod at international fest in Manhattan TWO music videos of singersongwriter Jayda have qualified as official selections under the Best Music Video category of the International Film Festival Manhattan (IFFM) Autumn 2021.

These videos marked Jayda’s venture into directing, with “Paano Kung Naging Tayo?” serving as her directorial debut while the “M.U. (Malabong Usapan)” music video was her co-directing project with Edrex Clyde Sanchez.

On Instagram, the Star Magic

AGNES VST DEVANADERA Chairperson and CEO

1 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Republic Act 9136.

Letter (s), Chapter I (Title and Declaration of Policy), Section 4 (Definition of Terms).

Attached as Annex “D” herein.

Page seven (7) of the FITB (Annex D).

Paragraph three of DC 2018.

Page eight (8) of ninety-one (91) of the Final Instructions to Bidders (“FITB”), which can or may also be regarded as the “name of project” pursuant to fourth paragraph of Section 13.1 of DC 2018 A copy of the NPD is attached as Annex “E”.

First paragraph of the assailed May 2021 Resolution.

A copy of the Memorandum of Agreement is attached as Annex “I”.

A copy of the Supplemental Agreement is attached as Annex “J”.

9th Whereas Clause of the Memorandum of Agreement between BOHECO I, BOHECO II and BLCI. Section 5, Rule 1 of the ERC Rules.

Section 1, Rule 58 of the Rules of Court.

Solid Builders, Inc. et.al., vs. China Banking Corporation, G.R. No.179665, 03 April 2013 Emphasis supplied.

G.R. No. 171624 A Resolution Adopting the Guidelines Governing Electronic Applications, Filings and Virtual Hearings Before the Energy Regulatory Commission.

A Resolution Adopting the Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure of the Energy Regulatory Commission.

(MS-OCT. 7, 2021)

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

right thing to do, and my previous network realized that,” Kuya Kim admitted.

With a career spanning 17 years in the broadcast industry, Kuya Kim is known for the weather updates he creatively presents and various trivia he graciously shares. He also inspires people to lead healthier life with his love for sports.

A known advocate of wildlife preservation, Kuya Kim also uses his influence to spread awareness in protecting the environment.

As he embarks on his journey as a Kapuso, he says he embraces the opportunity to try new things and thanks everyone in GMA for the warm welcome he received.

“Everything just felt surreal, this opportunity and the grand welcome they gave me,” Kuya Kim ended.

••• Yorme’s running mate Manila Mayor Isko Moreno has expressed the common denominator between him and Sailun, a brand of trusted tires.

In an interview with Sailun tires, he highlights the current situation in his locality and gives importance to how the right elements, quality service, and ideas can bring an improvement of lives.

Centered on Sailun tires’ key qualities of durability, affordability, and safety, Yorme showed how his values were in line with the brand, and how it’s important for him to have a partner in fulfilling his duties. One that brings forth mutually beneficial services in all aspects: starting with providing caliber education, helping people out in any way possible, to making sure that these services are accessible for, and will bring out the best in all in the near future.

“These are what give an extra layer of confidence and trust in both brands and in people – the genuine care and concern to spike improvement,” Yorme said.

“We vouch for those who will be with us, through all challenges, through highways and bumps on the road. Those who are going to remain with us through every turn,” added an executive from Sailun.

Yorme Isko Moreno is the face of Sailun tires.

TV5 bags major honors at Asian Academy Creative Awards

happening on Dec. 2 and the Gala Finals is on Dec. 3.

3) A statement of the relief desired.

2

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2021 Manila

Petition for Dispute Resolution will not be favorably acted upon.

61.

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com

Singer and songwriter Jayda is also a music video director.

artist and RISE Artists Studio talent extended her gratitude to her label Star Music and ABS-CBN Music head Roxy Liquigan saying, “Thank you for your belief in me and for giving me a chance and platform to expand my creative horizons and to keep challenging myself as an artist and a creator!”

The “Paano Kung Naging Tayo?”

MV, with almost 1 million views on YouTube, features former PBB: Otso housemate Rhys Miguel.

Jayda’s close friend Francine Diaz co-starred with her in the MV for “M.U. (Malabong Usapan),” now with 663,000 views on YouTube.

The two tracks are also part of her eight-track debut album released last June titled Bahagi.

The IFFM is an independent film festival in New York City in the U.S. that prides itself in offering a quality selection of world-class films that “encompasses all different genres including narrative features, documentaries, shorts, and student films from all over the world.”

This year’s IFFM Autumn Festival screening will be held online from Oct. 14 to 17 and live on Oct. 16 at the Producers Club in New York City.

Splendid house

Splendio Tritus delivers the strong cut 'But We Never' in KDR Music House 11-track compilation 'Loving You.'

IT EASILY caught my excitement upon finding out that the compilation being put out by the recently launched KDR Music House featured the group Splendio Tritus. I encountered this sibling act in 2019 after editing a coffee table book partly honoring the talents of persons with disabilities.

This pop rock band from Lipa, Batangas was formed by parents Agripino Jr. and Florie Ferrer to empower a talented son with autism.

The photo-driven hardbound titled “Inspire/Empower: Images and Stories of Persons With Disabilities in the Philippines” was put out by the Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation, Inc., headed by veteran lensman Lito Beltran. The project’s head photographer Cris Cleofas introduced me to the band which upon deeper scrutiny I found to be truly gifted.

Small wonder that their entry to the compilation, But We Never, is so far the most streamed among the 11 tracks included. The song is a slow pop rock that boasts a beautifully pleading melody.

The chorus sung by Nicolle Laurie grabs you like you’re listening to a superbly admired ‘90s hit from The Cranberries. I suggest that their supporters start calling them as The Cranberries of the Philippines.

With its name taken from Latin words partly to mean, “we shine,” Splendio Tritus looks prime to illuminate through the help of KDR Music House that caters to just the kind of artist the group is — having their own style and musical approach.

It is noted that the company has “welcomed various artists who came from different musical backgrounds but had the same burning passion for making life-

changing music.”

Released on digital stores last Sept. 17, the 11-track compilation Loving You was helmed by musical director Adonis Tabanda.

“I had fun working on this album because the artists are essentially on the same page with us. They all understand what it takes to record in this new normal set-up.”

Nine other artists are featured on the collection, with Princess Sevillena, the first-ever Wishcovery grand champion, having two songs, “Patawad Na,” and “If I Could.”

Rhea Basco, the grand champion of Wishcovery Season 2, shows off her impressive vocals with “Sana Ako Na Lang.” Balladeer Ace Bartolome should inspire us with his ode on never giving up, “Silungan,” as Gherns Calina, a pop-soul singer-songwriter, debuted with her single “Kaya.”

Wishful belter Carmela Ariola exhibits her sweet sound with her feel-good “Prinsipe,” while songstress Louie Anne Culala showcases her power range with “Di Mahal.” This track convinces us to realize that one can’t buy love because it is priceless.

Rounding up the lineup are the vocally sentimental Jheorge Normandia (“Pinili Nyang Mahalin Ka”), the youthful Elisha Pontanares (“Proud to Say”), and Kimberly Baluzo who took her talent to new heights with the folkrock “Panandalian.”

KDR Music House is a publishing company meant to embrace the advantages of digital platform, social media, and the technology-driven artistry of today’s artists without sacrificing musical integrity and timelessness.

With Splendio Tritus and mates shining through, KDR’s positive message is heard loud and clear.

Life

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

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HOUSEHOLD

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2021

Vistro Stonewar e Dinnerware in deep navy blue matte .

FASHION AND BEAUTY

ENTERTAIN WITH ELEGANCE

Something black and something white for your soiree

N

OTHING says understated elegance quite like a black and white themed party. May it be an intimate (and safe) party at home with family or a Zoom soiree with friends, showcase your hosting flair with the right dinnerware.

Home furnishings store Crate and Barrel’s new range of dinnerware, glassware, and flatware are made for sophisticated gatherings or feasts at home.

Marin’s black stoneware dinnerware collection features organic curves and hand-antiquing along the rim, while its blue dinnerware line is marked with artisanal ceramic shapes glazed in soft sky blue with subtle handantiquing on the freeform rims.

Meanwhile, Vistro Stoneware Dinnerware’s fun angles and fresh modern look make it perfect for weeknight meals or elegant dinners.

Wine night? Serve cheeses and

Matte black glaze accentuates Marin black dinnerware collection’s artisanal look.

charcuterie on Hayes Marble Serving Board with gold finished handles, or on French Kitchen Marble Cheeseboard that has a built-in stainless steel sliver with a sharp cutting wire that creates a flat serving surface.

Chill a bottle of wine in the French Kitchen Marble Wine Cooler for classic flair Enjoy pre- or after-dinner drink with light conversation in barware from Crate and Barrel’s Hatch Highball Glass, an heirloom classic, or in the thick-walled Dylan Glass that’s also ideal for everyday use.

The store is located at SM Aura, SM Megamall, and SM Makati.

Globe mounts Shop and Pay kiosks GLOBE launches digital kiosks to and 917 apparel and accessories. offer customers a safe and convenient More products are coming soon. alternative to purchase products and Shoppers need to use the digital services. touchscreen display to scan the Shop and Pay offers a multiQR codes that lead to online shops channel retail experience where for payment and delivery requests. customers, including not so digitalThe Pay Zone includes vending savvy individuals and elderly machines that accept bills payment, clients, can easily connect, explore, GCash cash-in, and load top-up. and fulfill transactions with just a These machines also dispense touch of a button. Customer service prepaid call cards and SIM cards. representatives are present to assist.

Step-by-step guides on how to “Many Filipinos are already used book for repairs and raise customer to making digital kiosk transactions service concerns are available in such as those offered by banks, fast Shop and Pay digital kiosk allows customers to purchase the Care Zone. food establishments, and outsourced products, pay for services, book repairs, and explore The Explore Zone allows payment collection companies,” mobile products offered by Globe. customers to learn more about the noted Michael Coson, Globe head different mobile products offered of retail design and portfolio growth. “Globe is bringing that by Globe through an interactive experience. Once a customer experience to the next level through best-in-class, omnichannel lifts a demo unit, a TV display will automatically flash the retail that makes transactions not only more convenient but phone’s features and plan offers. also seamless and highly immersive.”

Globe has already put up Shop and Pay kiosks at Ayala Each kiosk has four zones.

Malls Manila Bay and SM Manila. According to officials, In the Shop Zone, customers can access various Globe more outlets are set to be opened in different locations products and services such as handsets, broadband plans, nationwide soon.

From left: Dylan glasses, French Kitchen Marble Cheeseboard, French Kitchen Marble Wine Cooler.

SALE ALERT

European appliances brand slashes 10% off prices of select items

SHOPPING

SM marks 63rd anniversary with Super October OCTOBER is a special month for one giant mall chain – it is the month it was founded and the birth month of its founder.

In October 1958, Henry Sy, Sr. opened his first shoe store, ShoeMart, in downtown Manila. And in 2021, SM Supermalls continues its founder’s vision to cater to the needs of customers as it rolls out a monthlong sale promotion beginning with the Super 10.10 Sale ongoing until Oct. 10 at all The SM Store branches nationwide.

Shoppers get P100 cashback voucher for every P1,000 singlereceipt purchase today until Oct. 9.

And on Oct. 10, SM Advantage Card holders will be entitled to an extra 10 percent off with a minimum P3,000 single-receipt purchase.

A highlight of the Super Month is the Founder’s Weekend from Oct. 15 to 17 (Sy was born on Oct. 15, 1924).

Super-sized deals await beginning with the Super Shoes Day on Oct.

15, during which huge discounts on top shoe brands are offered across all department store branches nationwide.

There will also be a Super Sale, a BDO-MasterCard Rebate, and bank and e-wallet promos during the threeday event.

Daily deals on essentials and everything in between are lined up for The SM Store’s Super Deal of the Day from Oct. 19 to 28. SM Supermalls has also prepared more shopping and dining Super Deals. SM Malls Online is also treating shoppers to a Super Midnight Flash Sale.

In addition to deals and discounts, SM will be giving away P100,000 shopping money to the lucky winner of its Super TikTok Challenge (sing and dance to the tune of “We’ve Got It All For You”), ongoing until Oct. 15; and P10,000 to a customer and a Suzuki Skydrive Sport Motorcycle to their rider for the Super Riders (upload a selfie with your delivery rider) ongoing until Oct. 17.

Huge discounts await during the three-day SM Founder’s Weekend.

A customer and their delivery rider can both win in SM Super Riders.

Prices of select domestic appliances from Beko, including (right) the 90cm freestanding cooker, are discounted until Oct. 31.

Every P1000 single-receipt purchase today until Oct. 9 earns shoppers a 100-peso cashback voucher.

Super TikTok Challenge will give away P100,000 shopping money.

CHRISTMAS begins early for Beko Philippines as it offers discounts on select appliances and free gifts for every purchase today until Oct. 31.

Among the appliances on sale include refrigerators with HarvestFresh technology: RDNT401E50VZK, a 14.4 cu. ft. top-mount fridge freezer (at P32,391 from P35,990); GN163123P, a 22.7 cu. ft. side-byside fridge freezer (P55,791 from P61,990); RCNT340E50VZP, a 12 cu. ft. bottom-mount refrigerator (P28,791 from P31,990); and CF100WPH, a 100L chest freezer (P9,891 from P10,990).

Cooking appliances with 10 percent discount include 90cm freestanding cooker GM15321DXNS (at P67,491 from P74,990) and 50cm freestanding cooker CSG42010GB (P14,391 from P15,990). Both come with a free standard hood priced at P6,990.

Washing machines and dryers whose prices are slashed off include 10kg front-load washer dryer WCV10746M (P37,491 from P49,990) plus a free bagless canister vacuum cleaner priced at P5,990; 10.2kg top-load washing machine BTD1059S (P20,891 from P25,990) with a free flat iron priced at P3,990; and 10kg. front-load dryer DH10444RX0 (P32,191 from P37,990), also with a free flat iron.

Select kitchen Select models of vacuum cleaner, flat iron, and coffee appliances are on maker are also on sale. Call Beko’s toll-free number 1-800sale until end of this 10-888-2356 or go to its Facebook page for more details. month.