Manila Standard - 2021 November 26 - Friday

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China ‘trespassing’ in WPS

Lorenzana rebuffs Beijing, won't remove PH ship from Ayungin Shoal

By Maricel V. Cruz and Macon Ramos-Araneta

Prexy aspirants assert Ayungin within country's maritime zone

By Rey E. Requejo and Macon Ramos-Araneta

T

HE Philippines on Thursday rejected China’s demand that it remove the grounded BRP Sierra Madre ship from the Ayungin Shoal, saying it was the Chinese who were trespassers in the West Philippine Sea.

VOL. XXXV • NO. 284 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 FRIDAY FRIDAY,, NOVEMBER 26, 2021 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

OUTPOST. File photo shows the BRP Sierra Madre which the Philippine Navy deliberately grounded in 1999 on Ayungin Shoal, which lies well within the country's exclusive economic zone.

THREE presidential candidates on Thursday said China had no rights in the Ayungin Shoal, after the government rejected a Chinese demand that it remove the grounded BRP Sierra Madre from the area.

A 2016 ruling by a UN tribunal junked China’s expansive claims to the area, which is part of the Philippine exclusive economic zone, said Vice President Leni Robredo, who is running for president.

“Facts are not debatable. This is not subject to opinion because there is a ruling already,” she said in Filipino in an interview with ABS-CBN. Filipinos, she said, should enjoy exclusive use of the resources there.

Presidential aspirant Senator Panfilo Lacson said he doubted there was any commitment, as China claims, to remove the grounded vessel.

"I don’t think there was an agreement and I couldn’t imagine the Philippine

The statement came after China demanded the Philippine government "honor its commitment" and remove the grounded ship, which is used by Philippine marines stationed there.

"As far as I know there is no such commitment. That ship has beenthere since 1999. If there was (a) commitment it would have been removed a long time ago," Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said.

He underscored that Ayungin Shoal lies within the Philippines'exclusive economic zone (EEZ) where it has soverNext page eign rights.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian: Move out of Ayungin Shoal

Next page

2,829,618 Gov’t won’t say COVID under control just yet WHO warns 975

17,769

47,875

193

2,763,947

1,029

(As of 4 PM, NOV. 25) 25)

By Willie Casas THE Philippines will not declare anytime soon that it has already controlled the COVID-19 pandemic as there are still uncertainties, the Department of Health

(DOH) said on Thursday.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire made the comment a day after Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said the country will ask the World Health Organization (WHO) if it can declare that

the pandemic has been controlled.

“We are not going to declare this soon.

We are just coordinating with WHO on the process and the determinants of disease control or containment,” Vergeire said in a message to reporters. Next page

IG-WORTHY. People stop and take photos of Anda Circle with its dazzling multicolored dancing fountain. Danny Pata

vaxxed people against Delta

By Joel E. Zurbano and Willie Casas COVID vaccines reduce transmission of the dominant Delta variant by about 40 percent, the WHO has said, warning that people were falling into a false sense of security concerning jabs.

The World Health Organization's directorgeneral Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus Next page

St. Luke’s drug test format of BBM ’standard’

GO ADMITS 'NOTNextHIS page TIME' FOR PREXY RUN

ST. LUKE’S Medical Center (SLMC) sought to clarify Thursday questions about the validity of a drug test taken by presidential aspirant Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. at the hospital earlier this week.

Without mentioning Marcos Jr.’s case, SLMC said on Facebook the format of

NEWS / A4

Next page

Telcos step up anti-spam campaign Comelec denies 76 poll applications 'LACSON-SOTTO Next page STRONGEST PAIR' NEWS / A4

ISKO CANCELS BLUE Next page WAVE MOTORCADES NEWS / A4

dered to ramp up efforts to fight cybercrime.

“It has been reduced. We ordered the telcos to intensify their anti-spam campaigns,” NPC Commissioner Raymund THE National Privacy Commission said Liboro told Teleradyo.

Thursday the public should expect fewer Regulators earlier asked telcos to use SMS spam in the coming days, as the coun- their SMS blasting capabilities to warn users try's telecommunications providers were orNext page

By Maricel V. Cruz and Rio N. Araja

Next page

STATIC PINK CARAVANS GREET LENI IN CAVITE NEWS / A4

By Vito Barcelo THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has denied the accreditation applications of 76 party-list groups and political parties for the May 2022 polls.

Among the applications rejected were those of 1-Ako Driver, Ipaglaban Mo,

Ang Pederalismo, Antigo-1, Justice Redeemed, Dugong Dakilang Seaman, Maharlika People's Party, Ang Bagong Barangay Natin, and OFW Coalition Party.

The decision was announced by Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez at a press conference Thursday "Most of them have Next page

4 PARTIES BACK BONGBONG-SARA TANDEM

NEWS / A4

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News

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2021

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

China...

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"Our EEZ was awarded to us by the 1982 UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea) which China ratified. China should abide by its international obligations that it is part of," he said in a Facebook post.

"Furthermore, the 2016 Arbitral award ruled that the territorial claim of China has no historic nor legal basis. Ergo, we can do whatever we want there and it is they who are actually trespassing," he added.

The Defense chief said Manila has two documents to prove that it has sovereign rights in this EEZ while Beijing has none.

“They don't have this and their claim doesn't have a basis," he said.

The 2016 Arbitration Award rendered under UNCLOS had ruled that the Ayungin or Second Thomas Shoal lies within the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile EEZ and continental shelf, a decision recognized by the international community, including the United States, Japan, Australia, France, Germany, Canada, New Zealand, and the European Union.

In a separate message to reporters, Lorenzana said the resupply boats left Ayungin Shoal on Tuesday after completing their mission.

"The resupply boats left (BRP) Sierra Madre the same day after unloading their cargoes and personnel. They also brought out personnel going home on R&R (rest and recreation). As of now, (the) situation there is calm and normal,"

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government, much less the Foreign Affairs Department would enter into an agreement to remove the Sierra Madre,” Lacson said.

“We have troops there. It is really ours,” he said.

The Navy ship Sierra Madre was intentionally grounded at the Ayungin Shoal in 1999 to reinforce Manila's sovereignty claims in the Spratly archipelago. Some 195 kilometers away from Palawan, the shoal is home to a small contingent of Marines onboard the rusty ship.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana dismissed China's assertion on Wednesday that the Philippines committed to remove the grounded vessel.

"If there was commitment it would have been removed a long time ago," he said.

Presidential candidate Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso on Thursday insisted that the Ayungin Shoal is part of the country’s maritime territory, as affirmed by the 2016 arbitral ruling rendered by the United Nations-backed Permanent Court of Arbitration.

“Tell that to the Marines. It’s ours.

Our fishermen must fish in the West Philippine Sea. It is ours historically, technically, and the world agrees with us. We own it under the Hague ruling,” Moreno said.

The Aksyon Demokratiko presidential aspirant said given the chance, he would send "all our fishermen" in the West Philippine Sea along with all the resources of the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard to protect them.

Moreno also warned that he would do what Indonesian leader Joko Widodo did

Telcos...

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against clicking the link contained in spam messages.

If they click, they will be led to phishing sites where they will be asked to invest their own money before receiving promised commissions stated in the SMS job offer, Liboro said.

At the same time, the Commission on Human Rights lauded the NationalPrivacy Commission for securing the commitment, cooperation, and efforts of banks, telecommunication companies and e-commerce platforms to fight current and future smishing.

“It is crucial for the government and private sector to work together to protect the privacy and data of individuals amid the surge of spam text messages that are flooding many people's SMS or short message service inbox,” spokesperson Jacqueline Ann de Guia said.

Smishing — phishing but in SMS form —lures people into opening a malicious link that can result into a serious data breach. It includes access to the data subject's login credentials, bank details and other sensitive information.

Globe Telecom and Smart Communications Inc. said they have been blocking numbers, messages and IP addresses linked to illegal activities.

Liboro said investigations led the NPC to believe that a global organized syndicate could be behind the scam, adding the agency was also looking at data aggregators that could have been used by cybercriminals for spam.

Meanwhile, a congressional leader filed a resolution urging government agencies to take immediate legal action to stop the alleged misuse of contact information in the wake of a

he added.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian on Wednesday night insisted that the Ayungin Shoal is part of China’s waters and said the resumption of Manila's resupply mission to BRP Sierra Madre was "a provisional, special arrangement out of humanitarian considerations."

He also said the Chinese coast guard was doing its job to patrol and monitor activities in the area.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), meanwhile, branded these latest Chinese remarks as mere "wolf warrior" release—referring to the aggressive style of diplomacy adopted by Chinese diplomats under President Xi Jinping's administration.

Last week, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Jr. emphasized that China has "no law enforcement rights” in and around the Ayungin Shoal.

In a press conference in Beijing, Lijian justified Chinese troops being near the BRP Sierra Madre, after Lorenzana complained of their "intimidation and harassment" during the resupply mission.

Zhao said the Chinese coast guard ship “patrolled and performed its duty in the water area in accordance with law” as it monitored the resupply mission.

A party-list legislator on Thursday denounced China’s demand that the Philippines remove the grounded BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal based on some commitment, calling it “absurd.”

"We need to ask if, in fact, there was a commitment made to remove BRP Sierra Madre in the Ayungin Shoal and who made such a commitment on behalf

of the Philippines," said Magdalo Rep. Manuel Cabotchan III. "The claim of China that there is supposed commitment made should be clarified because it is evident that the Philippines solely has sovereign rights in the Ayungin Shoal. The Philippines has a legal basis according to the UNCLOS and the 2016 arbitration ruling," he added.

Cabotchan continued: "We are not obliged to seek permission for our actions in the Ayungin Shoal from China or anyone else. Ayungin Shoal is ours. If there is a trespasser there, it is China.”

Senator Grace Poe said China had no right to dictate what the Philippines can do within its own waters.

She said China's recent statement telling the Philippines to remove BRP Sierra Madre from the shoal is “another display of utter arrogance and aggression that we must not take sitting down.”

Aside from diplomatic protests, she said the government should step up efforts to rally the country’s neighbors to form a united front against China in the South China Sea. "Time and again, several nations have stood by us and shared our goal of ensuring peace, stability and harmony," said Poe. She said respect must always be the cornerstone of the country’s relationship with any nation.

She cited the 2016 arbitral ruling which declared that Ayungin Shoal belongs to the Philippines and is well within the country’s EEZ and continental shelf.

Senator Joel Villanueva said trespassers have no right to issue an eviction or-

der.

He maintained that Ayungin Shoal is part of the continental shelf that is 104 nautical miles from the archipelagic baseline of Palawan and thus within our country’s 200-nautical mile EEZ under UNCLOS. "Our ship has been there since 1999.

To argue otherwise is to suffer from historical amnesia and geographical ignorance," he said.

He said Sierra Madre, the ship, is a fixture as immovable as Sierra Madre, the mountain range.

"Eventually, the sea will be BRP Sierra Madre’s final resting place.

But no way should it be the graveyard of our sovereignty," he added.

Former Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario said there was no commitment to remove the BRP Sierra Madre.

“BRP Sierra Madre serves an important role as an outpost in Ayungin Shoal for our soldiers to defend against the illegal and oppressive incursions of Chinese forces in the West Philippine Sea,” he said in a statement.

“BRP Sierra Madre is a public vessel of the Philippines that is protected by Article IV of the 1951 US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty. If China attacks BRP Sierra Madre and our armed forces in Ayungin Shoal, such action would trigger the mutual defense commitments under the treaty where the US and the Philippines will act ‘to meet [such] common danger’ instigated

by China,” he said.

The Philippines has every right to station BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal under the UNCLOS and affirmed by the 2016 arbitral award, he said.

if warranted.

In 2016, Widodo once held a Cabinet meeting aboard a warship off Natuna Islands, to make a point to China. His former fisheries minister has chased away, even blown up, Chinese fishing vessels.

Under Widodo's watch, Indonesia renamed waters north of Natuna Islands the North Natuna Sea, angering China.

Indonesia then put up a new military base on the islands and has ramped up regular patrols in the area.

“The sauce for the gander, is sauce for the goose. All ships owned by other countries entering our sovereign jurisdiction will be apprehended. And those ships who went inside illegally within our territorial jurisdiction, I’ll turn the bottom of the sea into an aquarium with their sunken ships,” Moreno said.

Moreno bemoaned the inaction of members of the International Criminal Court (ICC) – even though the court is mandated only to investigate and, where warranted, try individuals charged with genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and the crime of aggression, and is not involved in territorial disputes.

Senator Francis Pangilinan, who is running for vice president, said the Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea should be defended as it is vital to the country’s food security.

Pangilinan said he has already filed a resolution in the Senate seeking an investigation into the possible implication of China’s persistent harassment to the livelihood of Filipino fishermen.

“This is a matter of food security because the West Philippine Sea is a rich, rich source of fish. In fact, the fishes we are importing from China came from there,” Pangilinan said.

St...

The hospital then “strongly” encouraged the public to refrain from posting “misleading and inaccurate information” on social media. St. Luke’s also called on everyone to verify the information they receive from others.

Marcos Jr.’s spokesperson Vic Rodriguez earlier said that the former senator took a cocaine test on Monday at the SLMC-Global City, which yielded a negative result.

However, some netizens have alleged that the document, which was released by Marcos Jr.'s camp to the media, did not contain the SLMC’s letterhead and the hospital’s address was inaccurate.

spike in spam text messages and online scams.

Assistant Majority Leader and Quezon City Rep. Alfred Vargas said if left unchecked, these schemes can be used as tools to spread disinformation and fake news during the elections.

“As we enter the campaign period, urgent steps should be taken to ensure that these schemes are not weaponized into tools to spread fake news and disinformation. Our right to suffrage and the integrity of our elections may become casualties if the concerned agencies fail to act,” he said.

In House Resolution 2378, Vargas said the Department of Information and Communications Technology, the National Telecommunications Commission, and the National Privacy Commission should conduct a thorough investigation.

“Speculations from consumers that their phone numbers might have been sourced from contact-tracing forms, indicating a breach of privacy, have surfaced and must be addressed diligently and immediately,” he said in his resolution.

As this developed, the NPC received an initial breach notification report on November 15, 2021, 4:47 PM, from S&R Membership Shopping in relation to a cyber-attack that may have compromised its members’ contact information.

The S&R said that it discovered the security incident last November 14, 2021, confirming that the subject of the ransomware attack was the S&R membership system affecting twenty-two thousand (22,000) data subjects, the NPC said in a statement.

According to the report, the following personal data were compromised: date of birth, contact number and gender.

Gov’t...

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the printed test result is "standard and common" among all healthcare facilities authorized by the Department of Health (DOH) to conduct dangerous drug tests.

“Regarding the mention of Barangay Ususan (in Taguig City) as our location, this is because that is the only available location in DOH Integrated Drug Test Operation Management Information System when St. Luke’s Medical Center – Global City was accredited in 2010,” it added.

Comelec..

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been denied on procedural grounds. Pleadings and jurisdictional allegations were incomplete. For most part, those were the reasons [for the denial of accreditation]," Jimenez said, adding "The list can still grow."

Meanwhile, at least 65.5 million registered voters are expected to participate in the forthcoming 2022 national and local elections.

“Throughout the entire registration process we added to the list of voters a total of 8,187,080,” Jimenez said, adding “as of today the projected number of voters for 2022 stands at 65.5 million.”

The poll spokesman said at the start of the registration, they expected around 4 million who will turn 18-years old to register.

In terms of new registrants, Jimenez said there were 4,094,614 new voters aged 18 to 21 years old.

Majority of those new registrants belong to the 21 year old age group with 750,578

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Vergeire, during a media forum, said the DOH cannot yet definitely say that the country has controlled the virus.

“We can’t definitely say that. There are still a lot of uncertainties.

We experienced in the past that cases will go down for a time but then they’ll increase, so we need a longer time to evaluate,” Vergeire said.

Vergeire added that each region in the country is facing a different situation on the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Maybe the National Capital Region has high vaccination rates and its community response has been intensified, but if we compare it to other areas in the country, some still have low vaccination rates,” she said in Filipino.

“We see that we still need to help some of the local governments to intensify their community response,” she added.

Vergeire said a country’s health system must be prepared for it to be able to declare that it has controlled an illness.

Duque had said the DOH is seeking guidance from WHO following the decrease of the positivity rate in the country, which has been below 5 percent since Nov. 13, meeting the benchmark of the global organization.

The Philippines on Thursday reached its lowest number of active COVID-19 cases at 17,796 this year as it logged 975 new cases, which brought the total number of cases to 2,829,618.

The active cases were only 0.6 percent of the total, according to the latest DOH bulletin. The last time active cases fell below 18,000 was on June 11 last year, during which 17,754 were recorded.

The number of fresh cases is the sixth lowest this year, following 957 infections

WHO...

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males and 796,891 females.

But the largest group of registrants in the 18 to 21 bracket, Jimenez said, were the 21year old registrants.

Voter registration ended Oct. 30, while the 2022 national and local elections will be held on May 9, 2022.

In related developments, Meta, formerly the Facebook company, Comelec, and the Legal Network for Truthful Elections (Lente) announced the launch of a digital literacy campaign, “Be WAIS and Teka Moment.”

The campaign reminds people to pause and think critically before sharing information online and also includes tips on how to spot fake news and how to engage in respectful political discourse on social media.

Jimenez said: “Social media platforms like Facebook play an important role in providing Filipinos with timely information about when and where to vote. Together with Meta and all our partners, we are committed to promoting digital literacy especially among new registered voters for the upcoming presidential election.”

said many vaccinated people were wrongly thinking the jab meant they no longer needed to take any other precautions.

Fully-immunized people must stick with measures to avoid catching the virus and passing it on, Tedros insisted, spelling out how the more contagious Delta meant the vaccines were not as effective against transmission.

"We're concerned about the false sense of security that vaccines haveended the pandemic and people who are vaccinated do not need to take any other precautions," Tedros told reporters Wednesday.

"Vaccines save lives but they do not fully prevent transmission. Data suggests that before the arrival of the Delta variant, vaccines reduced transmission by about 60 percent. With Delta, that has dropped to about 40 percent."

The more transmissible Delta variant is now overwhelmingly dominant around the world, having all but out-competed other strains.

"If you are vaccinated, you have a much lower risk of severe disease and death but you are still at risk of being infected and infecting others," said Tedros.

"We cannot say this clearly enough: even if you are vaccinated, continue to take precautions to prevent becoming infected yourself, and infecting someone else who could die."

That meant wearing a facemask, maintaining distance, avoiding crowds and meeting others outside or only in a wellventilated indoor space, he said.

In the Philippines, only five percent of the 76,837 adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) were seen as "serious" since the country began its COVID-19 vaccination program in March, health officials said Thursday.

Food and Drug Administration Director General Eric Domingo said adverse reactions "do not necessarily have a causal relationship with the vaccine.”

"We would just like to remind everybody we only allow vaccines to be used if we are sure the benefits outweigh the risks," Domingo told reporters.

"Whatever adverse event might be related to a vaccine is definitely much less than the number of people getting sick and dying from COVID-19,” he said.

The total number of adverse events comprise only 0.10 percent of the 75.6 million jabs administered as of Nov. 21, Domingo said.

He said the most common adverse reactions are increase in blood pressure, fever, pain on the vaccination site.

The government has fully vaccinated 34.2 million individuals, while 43.3 million have received an initial dose as of Tuesday, the National Task Force Against COVID-19 said.

It aims to inoculate 15 million people during its three-day vaccination drive from Nov. 29 to Dec. 1.

Meanwhile, another shipment of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines arrived in Manila on Thursday.

The shipment consists of 1,747,560 doses landed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport - Terminal 3 around 4:10 p.m. via Emirates flight EK-332.

On Wednesday, the Philippines also received 700,000 doses of AstraZeneca vaccines donated by the Australian government. With AFP

logged on Jan. 4.

There were 193 new fatalities, bringing the COVID-19 death toll to 47,875.

The DOH also reported 1,029 new recoveries, bringing the total recoveries to 2,763,947.

Of the active cases, 52.7 percent were mild, 5.4 percent were asymptomatic, 6 percent were critical, 14.4 percent were severe, and 21.49 percent were moderate.

The COVID-19 positivity rate remained below 5 percent, with 2.8 percent.

Nationwide, 30 percent of ICU beds, 27 percent of isolation beds, 16 percent of ward beds, and 19 percent of ventilators, were in use.

In Metro Manila, 29 percent of ICU beds, 25 percent of isolation beds, 20 percent of ward beds, and 21 percent of ventilators, were in use.

A public health expert on Thursday warned the public to always be on guard despite a declining trend in COVID-19 cases.

Dr. Nina Gloriani, head of the country's vaccine expert panel, during a TeleRadyo interview, said complacency on health protocols could lead to a COVID-19 resurgence, which parts of Europe are currently facing.

“What's the reason behind their increase in [COVID-19] cases?,” she said.

“They have eased and relaxed [restrictions]. They have discarded rules on [wearing] masks, distancing. They're having parties and games. All of those that are prohibited.,” she said.

Gloriani cautioned against gathering with unvaccinated family members and bringing children to shopping malls, as the holiday season nears, saying the risk of COVID-19 infection remains.

“Even if 94 percent in Metro Manila are fully vaccinated, there's still 6 percent who have not received the jab,” she said.

She said there could also be an influx

of people from other regions, where immunization coverage is low.

The DOH on Thursday reminded parents not to bring minors to crowded areas because this would defeat the intention of eased quarantine restrictions.

This comes with the looming recommendation of the pandemic inter-agency task force (IATF) on minors' restrictions, after reports this month that toddlers as young as 2 years old tested positive for COVID-19.

On Nov. 12, a pediatric physician said she admitted a 1-year-old patient with bronchopneumonia, a possible complication of COVID-19, after being brought to a public market.

The doctor lamented that the mom appeared "proud," saying she had gone out with the baby for a while.

Vergeire said the objectives of the IATF in allowing children to go outdoors is to socialize, get sunlight, and to be able to exercise.

It is not the objective of the IATF to let children be brought to crowded places, she added.

The National Capital Region's 13 million people shifted to Alert 2 from Alert 3 last Nov. 4, allowing more businesses to reopen and easing restrictions on going out.

Fairs, "peryas," or kids' amusement areas such as playgrounds, playrooms, and kiddie rides were also allowed to operate under the looser quarantine level.

While DOH earlier described the case of the 2-year-old as an "isolated" one, local authorities argued that there should be an age limit for minors who go to malls, which are enclosed areas.

Vergeire, however, emphasized that children should no longer be cooped up in their homes, and that establishments and parents should "find a way" to protect them amid the threat of COVID-19.

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‘Use tech-driven solutions versus climate threats’ FILIPINOS should use technologydriven solutions to address environmental threats.

A panel of experts also said environmental threats present Filipinos with the opportunity to plan and use technology-driven solutions, and foster multi-stakeholder collaboration to get people out of harm’s way and introduce a shift to a green and sustainable way of living.

The experts gathered at Session 3 of Stratbase ADR Institute’s Pilipinas Conference 2021: Sustaining Cooperation for a Green and Sustainable Recovery. The forum was held online on Wednesday.

In his keynote speech. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor, Secretary Benjamin Diokno underscored the need for banks to have a clear and comprehensive understanding of environmental and social risks and their impact on their operation and business viability before they can heed the call for action on the environment.

“As part of our effort to go green, the BSP remains committed to the following: guide the financial system and promote a conducive backdrop for sustainable finance to flourish; raise awareness and build capacity; enable a regulatory environment through policy issuances; engage all stakeholders as we recognize that the environmental and social risks are not just business risks, but risks that affect everyone and the future generations to come; and lastly, navigate the path towards a post-COVID-19 economy and Philippine financial system that is more stable, resilient, and inclusive,” he said.

UN urged to stop terrorists from acquiring arms

By Rey E. Requejo THE Philippines has urged the United Nations Security Council to institute measures to prevent terrorists from acquiring small arms and light weapons, which forms part of the operations of terrorists” through smuggling.

Ambassador Ariel R. Peñaranda, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Philippine Mission to the United Nations, stressed the need to effectively address the diversion of small arms and light weapons that may eventually end up in the hands of terrorists.

Peñaranda conveyed the Philippine position during the UN Security Council Open Debate on Nov. 22 which focused on the impact of diversion and trafficking of arms on peace and security.

According to Peñaranda, arms smuggling forms part of the operations of terrorists, and that the recent experience of the Philippines demonstrated “how civilians paid a high price with dozens killed and widespread destruction of homes and property amid the “Battle of Marawi” that pitted the Philippine military against militants allied to ISIS.” Peñaranda recommended four points upon which the Security Council could focus to combat diversion and trafficking of arms.

These are improving data analysis, building capacity of states, strengthening engagement with industry stakeholders, and inclusion of ammunition in discussions on combating diversion and trafficking of small arms and light weapons.

PREPARING FOR THE HOLIDAYS. Stall owner Baby Tagala arranges her Christmas lantern for display at the Mega Q-Mart in Quezon City. Manny Palmero

HEIRLOOM RICE VARIETIES. Farmers are harvesting heirloom rice varieties in Naguey, Atok, Benguet. These farmers have been planting organically grown heirloom rice varieties handed down to them by their ancestors. Dave Leprozo

Yang appeals to SC to halt arrest

By Rey E. Requej

M

ICHAEL Yang, a former economic adviser of President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday asked the Supreme Court (SC) to stop the Senate from implementing its arrest order after he failed to appear before the Senate investigation on the multibillion peso contracts won by Pharmally Pharmaceuticals Corp. for pandemic supplies.

In a petition, Yang through lawyer Raymond Fortun sought the nullification of the arrest order and to declare invalid the immigration lookout bulletin order (ILBO) issued by the Department of Justice through Bureau of Immigration against him.

Yang argued that the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee has acted with grave abuse of discretion when it issued the arrest orders against him despite the

lack of criminal charges.

According to him, Senate also treated resource persons like him more as an accused in regular court proceedings by “unrightfully judging their guests as “lying” at the slightest hint of inconsistency while completely ignoring any explanations made.

“Acting with grave abuse of discretion amounting to a lack or excess of jurisdiction, the respondent Senate Committee had violated the petitioner’s rights to

privacy by compelling him to reveal his properties, corporate papers and business transactions despite the same not having any connection to the matter in inquiry, including asking about his supposed links to illegal drugs despite the sheer absence of evidence of his engagement therein,” Yang stressed.

At the same time, he said the committee refused to recognize hiscounsel, thus exposing resource persons including him to bullying and badgering.

“Petitioner concedes the power of the respondent Senate Committee to hold a witness in contempt for testifying falsely or evasively. However, when such power is exercised with such grave abuse and, despite being confronted with the truth, refuses to believe the same, certiorari lies to reverse the effects of such abusive exercise,” he said.

With Macon Ramos-Araneta

DRUG TEST FOR COPS. Members of the Manila Police District (MPD) Station 4 undergo random drug testing at the MPD headquarters in Manila on Thursday morning.

Norman Cruz

DOTR asks Google to put bike lanes on maps

By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Department of Transportation (DOTR) said it has requested Google to include bike lane routes in the Philippines in the dashboard of its popular real-time navigation app Google Maps to help cyclists on their daily commutes.

Transport Secretary Art Tugade said

the agency is already coordinating with Google regarding the project.

“This will be a very good innovation for Google Maps considering that many Filipinos now are riding bikes as their main mode of transportation which brings significant health and environmental benefits especially amid the pandemic,” Tugade said.

Tugade added that the DOTR is wait-

ing for Google’s approval but he feels confident that the tech giant will most likely pursue the Department’s request as it is a supporter of active transport.

“We have asked Google to consider this suggestion top priority considering the increasing number of Filipino cyclists. We are confident that we can win their support on this,” he said.

‘More than 177k govt jobs vacant’

By Maricel V. Cruz ANAKALUSUGAN Rep. Mike Defensor on Thursday appealed to government agencies to fill vacant positions totaling almost 178,000 in the entire bureaucracy.

“The government is the country’s biggest employer. It can ease the unemployment problem by hiring personnel to fill job vacancies, for which there are funds in the annual budget,” he said.

Based on 2022 budget documents submitted to Congress, Defensor said the bureaucracy has permanent positions numbering 1,899,747, from the president, who holds Salary Grade 33

(P415,728 a month), down to the lowestpaid worker, who receives P12,034 (Salary Grade 1) in basic pay.

Of the total number of permanent positions, 1,721,753 are filled or occupied, while the remaining 177,994 are vacant, he said.

He added that the number of permanent jobs, filled positions and vacancies reflected in the budget documents excludes those in local government units throughout the country.

Defensor pointed out that Congress allocates funds for salaries in the annual budget on the basis of existing permanent positions, including those that are unfilled.

IN BRIEF Complete your projects, housing agencies told DEPARTMENT of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Eduardo del Rosario prodded members of the National Human Settlements and Urban Development Coordinating Committee (NHSUDCC) to ensure the completion of all housing projects nationwide.

He cited the pivotal role of coordination among DHSUD, its key shelter agencies (KSAs) and all stakeholders, particularly the local government units (and partner-developers, in ensuring that all housing projects are finalized within their specified timeline.

He underscored the importance of encouraging LGUs to draft and complete their local shelter plans to ensure the smooth implementation of their respective housing projects.

“We must urge local government units to finalize and complete their respective local shelter plans,” he stressed. Rio N. Araja

Angeles City frontliners get booster shots ANGELES CITY — Some 92 medical frontliners here have received their booster shots against COVID-19 on Thursday at the vaccination site in the City College of Angeles.

Mayor Carmelo Lazatin, Jr. said the 92 frontliners are fully vaccinated doctors, nurses, and medical technologists from Rafael Lazatin Memorial Medical Center (RLMMC), formerly known as Ospital Ning Angeles.

“We started giving booster shots to our brave frontliners,” Lazatin said.

The doctors, nurses, and medical technologists who received booster shots are those who got their vaccines from the city’s vaccination centers last March and April.

Lazatin’s chief adviser IC Calaguas, also the chief implementer of the city government’s vaccination program, shared that the giving of booster shots for the fully vaccinated healthcare workers will be done by schedule. Butch Gunio

BI agents arrest two South Korean fugitives BUREAU of Immigration (BI) agents arrested two South Koreans wanted by authorities in Seoul for fraud and drug pushing.

In a report to Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente, the BI’s fugitive search unit identified the alleged fraudster as 36-year-old Noh Kyungwoo, who was arrested last Tuesday along F.B. Harrison Street, Pasay City, Metro Manila.

The other fugitive, who is wanted for illegal drugs, was identified as 53-year-old Kwon Soonho, who was arrested the next day at the Hall of Justice bldg. in Angeles City, Pampanga.

Both aliens were arrested on the strength of a mission order issued by Morente and they are now detained at the BI detention facility in Taguig City pending deportation proceedings. Vito Barcelo

IN BRIEF

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Take multi-drug test at PDEA, bets urged

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2021

UNITEAM ALLIANCE. Presidential candidate Ferdinand Marcos Jr

(center) joins (from left) PMP Chairman Jinggoy Estrada, Partido Federal ng Pilipinas President Reynaldo Tamayo, Lakas-CMD Party President and House Majority Leader Martin Romualdez, and HNP President Claude Bautista after the UniTeam Alliance Signing at Sofitel Hotel in Pasay City. Ver Noveno

News

‘UNITEAM ALLIANCE AGREEMENT’ TO BACK TANDEM

4 parties ink pact for BBM-Sara

By Rey E. Requejo and Maricel V. Cruz

F

OUR political parties — the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats, Hugpong ng Pagbabago, and Pwersa ng Masang Pilipino — forged on Thursday an alliance to support the presidential tandem of former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Davao City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte in the May 2022 national elections.

In what they called the “UniTeam Alliance Agreement,” the coalition vowed to support the candidacy of Marcos and Duterte for president and vice president, respectively, turning the BBM-Sara UniTeam into the most formidable tandem in next year’s polls.

The leaders of the four parties pledged to pursue good governance, reforms to reboot and rebound the economy, sustain the campaign to defeat the COVID-19 pandemic, push for national unification and healing, and address other enormous problems facing the Philippines.

“Whereas, in view of the shared vision of the Convenor and Partners, all parties have agreed to forge this alli-

Bong Go says ‘not his time’ for prexy run CLAIMING that it is not yet his time to run for President, Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go on Thursday stressed he is ready to make sacrifices to ensure he would not cause any problem and nobody would get hurt.

While there were indications that Go, who is seeking the presidency under the PDDS party, would withdraw from the presidential race, the senator nor his camp have yet to issue a categorical statement on the matter.

Go said he no longer wants to burden President Rodrigo Duterte, who has been pushing hard to make him win in the upcoming elections and his supporters.

“I love President Duterte. He is already old. I do not want to add to his problems,” said the longtime aide of the 76-year-old Chief Executive.

In the past few days, Go divulged he realized that his heart and mind are contradicting his own actions. “My body, heart and mind are indeed resisting.

Even my family is being burdened,” he said. Macon Ramos-Araneta

NEGATIVE TOO. Presidential aspirant Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso with running mate Doc Willie Ong show their negative results after getting tested for cocaine, shabu, marijuana, and other prohibited drugs, at the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency on Thursday. Norman Cruz

ance that will pave the way for unity, strength and continued positive change for the country,” stated the coalition’s two-page agreement, which was signed by leaders of the parties in a

ceremony held at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila in Pasay.

The agreement was signed by LakasCMD president and House Majority Leader Martin Romualdez, PFP president and South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr., HNP president and Davao Occidental Governor Claude Bautista, and PMP president Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada.

Marcos, who graced the event held at Sofitel in the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, said the agreement was a necessary step to bring together different political forces for the 2022 elections.

He stressed that the merging of the most significant political parties signify

unity that would heal and bring peace to a country that murky politics have long polarized.

“This is a very important step. This is the beginning of our consolidating of the political forces at least on this side. As we have been experiencing, it has been a very tumultuous campaign already, we are still six months away from the national election,” Marcos said in his speech during the signing.

“It is with these unifying steps that we hope to bring stability back, well first to the political arena, which now is in the middle of the decision-making process that our people will have to come to when May comes, the election comes,” he added.

VICE presidential aspirant Senate President Vicente Sotto III on Thursday advised other candidates to take the multidrug test at the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) if they want “unquestionable” results instead of getting tested in private clinics.

Meanwhile, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, who is running for president, assured the public he is willing to submit himself to the most comprehensive type drug test “anytime, anywhere.”

He said this is to reassure Filipinos that he is mentally and physically fit to discharge the duties of a president. He emphasized that voters have the right to be informed of any conditions which may seriously undermine a candidate’s ability to fulfill his/her potential role.

Also, presidential candidate Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso and Dr. Willie Ong have been tested negative for drugs after voluntarily submitting themselves at the PDEA headquarters in Quezon City “in the interest of public service in the highest order.”

Moreno, the standard-bearer of the Aksyon Demokratiko, stressed that submitting themselves to drug tests is their way of showing support for the current administration’s war on drugs.

Meanwhile, Sotto noted that PDEA is the best agency to submit candidates to a drug test since they are seeking the country’s top two elective positions.

He warned that private drug testing centers or clinics may produce “unreliable” results.

“They also cannot go to drug testing centers or clinics which are not reliable. First, in drug testing, it’s just for shabu or marijuana, those are the most common. That’s the common drug testing kit nationwide,” explained Sotto, a longtime anti-drug advocate. Macon Ramos-Araneta

QC enforcers fine Joy for no helmet

QUEZON City’s traffic enforcers on Thursday apprehended Mayor Joy Belmonte for not wearing a helmet during the Cycle to End Violence Against Women bike event.

Along with the mayor, Cherie Atilano of the United Nations Food System Champions received violation tickets from the Department of Public Order and Safety for violating City Ordinance 2942-2021.

Belmonte and Atilano were fined P300 each.

Belmonte said one of the participants of the Cycle for VAW bike event did not have a helmet so she decided to give her protective gear to her fellow biker.

The city government, Embassies of Netherlands and Austria, the Philippine Commission on Women, Spark Philippines, and several non-government organizations launched the Cycle to End VAW event to commemorate the 18-day campaign to end violence against women, as well as the third anniversary of the #RespetoNaman Movement.

The participants cycled along the bike lanes of the city hall, Elliptical Road up to Agham Road and back.

The event was also part of the city’s celebration of National Bike Day on Nov. 18.

The city government strictly reminded all bikers and motorists to strictly follow rules and health protocols to ensure their safety.

Rio N. Araja

OSG nixes Ressa’s plea to receive Nobel Prize

LUGAW TRUCKS. Vice President Leni Robredo leads the blessing of two Leni Lugaw trucks in Brgy. TramoBantayan in Kawit, Cavite on Thursday. The trucks will be used by Youth Vote for Leni and Caviteños for Leni to distribute free rice porridge (lugaw) to residents of poor communities in Cavite. OVP Photo

Tiquia: Lacson-Sotto ‘strongest pair, readiest’ for top posts

By Macon Ramos-Araneta THE tandem of Partido Reporma chairman and presidential candidate Panfilo “Ping” Lacson and his running mate Vicente “Tito” Sotto III is the “strongest” pair among aspirants in the 2022 national elections, said top political strategist Malou Tiquia.

Tiquia also said the tandem appears to be the readiest to perform the duties of the country’s top posts.

Meanwhile, once elected in next year’s elections, Lacson and Sotto vowed to lead the country as a “Council of Two,” with the Vice President not a mere spare tire for

the President.

Lacson also said that vote-buying and fake news are the top threats not only for the coming May elections, but for democracy in general.

While Lacson and Sotto may not be leading the surveys during this unofficial campaign period, Tiquia expects the landscape to change next year, when the official campaign period begins on February 9.

“But things will change once we hit February. I think in the last 48 days, 50 days, that tandem (Lacson-Sotto) has remained quiet and was going to and reaching out to people. Now that is campaigning,” she said.

In the “Politics as Usual” program hosted by Pia Hontiveros on CNN Philippines, Tiquia said the Lacson-Sotto tandem have all the combined experience compared to other aspirants in the May polls next year.

These characteristics, she noted, will serve them well both in the campaign and when the people elect them as President and Vice President.

“It takes more than just being around and being active in the arena. If you’re going to look at tandems, the tandem of Lacson and Sotto have all the experience, combined experience,” said Tiquia on the program, which discussed the topic “Political capital: Spending it on your anointed.”

THE Office of the Solicitor General has objected to the bid of Nobel laureate and Rappler CEO Maria Ressa to personally receive the Nobel Peace Prize award in Oslo, Norway next month.

In opposing Ressa’s bid, the OSG pleaded the Court of Appeals’ Eight Division to deny the Rappler executive’s appeal to be allowed to travel to Norway, saying her right to travel is not absolute and that she has failed to present convincing arguments or evidence to prove the necessity of her travel to Oslo.

The chief state lawyer also argued that Ressa was merely invited to attend the awarding ceremony on December 10, which she could do by videoconferencing.

December 10 is the anniversary of the death of Swedish industrialist Alfred Nobel who founded the awards in his last will in 1895.

“Plaintiff-appellee is aware that the Nobel Peace Prize is a prestigious award given to individuals who have conferred the greatest benefit to mankind. However, it is respectfully submitted that accused-appellant Ressa has failed to present any compelling argument and or evidence proving the necessity and urgency of her travel to Oslo, Norway,” the OSG said.

It said there are alternative means by which Ressa can participate in the event, such as through videoconferencing and other technological applications.

“Second, there is no showing that accused-appellant Ressa’s in person attendance thereto is necessary or her non-attendance in person to the events in Oslo, Norway would cause irreparable damage or prejudice to her,” the OSG said. Rey E. Requejo

Team Isko cancels all ‘Blue Wave’ caravans during holiday season THE campaign team of Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso decided to cancel all “Blue Wave” caravans starting yesterday, November 25, until the first week of January 2022.

Team Isko campaign strategist Lito Banayo said the cancellation of all motorcades by his supporters was due to the traffic congestion that usually comes with the

onset of the Christmas season.

“We do not want to add to the burden of our motorists who are already complaining of heavy traffic after the alert status in Metro Manila and other areas were deescalated to Level 2,” said Banayo.

“We are aware that with the mad rush for shopping in malls and in places like Divisoria, we can expect monstrous traffic jams.

Hence, the cancellation of all motorcades of our supporters beginning today until the first week of January 2022,” said Banayo.

During the November 14 “2nd Blue Wave Caravan” in Metro Manila, more than 5,000 motorcycle riders and at least 500 cars and vehicles participated as a show of support for Mayor Isko’s presidential run. Rey E. Requejo

Static caravans greet Robredo as she tours Cavite, visits Bell House VICE President Leni Robredo toured Cavite on Thursday as she was greeted by enthusiastic Caviteños wearing pink shirts and masks and waving ribbons in show of support for the presidential aspirant.

While in Cavite, Robredo also visited the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of the Pillar-Imus Cathedral in Imus to lead the ribbon-cutting of The Bell House, which houses the four Heritage

Bells of Imus Cathedral from the 1800s.

During her visit, the Vice President also met with Bishop Rey Evangelista and other priests from the Diocese of Imus.

Later, Robredo led the blessing of two Leni Lugaw trucks in Brgy. Tramo-Bantayan in Kawit. The trucks will be used

by Youth Vote for Leni and Caviteños for Leni to distribute free rice porridge (lugaw) to residents of poor communities

in Cavite.

Here, VP Leni thanked donors and volunteers, emphasizing that the lugaw brand has now become a symbol of compassion and bayanihan among Filipinos.

After the blessing, vice presidential aspirant Senator Kiko Pangilinan and senatorial candidates Chel Diokno and Sonny Matula joined Robredo in serving lugaw to residents in the area.

Opinion Dad and Mom, please give support THIS article will be in two parts. The first part will cover the Rules on Action for Support and the second part will focus on the Procedure for Petition for Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Decisions or Judgments on Support.

Both Rules were incorporated in A.M. No. 21-03-02-SC, which took effect on 31 May 2021.

According to Article 68 of the Family Code, a husband and wife are obliged to live together, observe mutual love, respect and fidelity, and render mutual help and support. The obligation to give support springs from the relationship

Who are entitled to it? and filiation between the giver and those entitled to receive it.

Support comprises everything indispensable for sustenance, dwelling, clothing, medical attendance, education, and transportation; and all this in keeping with the financial capacity of the family (Section 3(b), Rule I, A.M. 2103-02-SC).

The support to be given for the education of the person shall include his or her schooling or training for some profession, trade or vocation, even beyond the age of 18 years.

Transportation shall include expenses in going to and from school, or to and from a place of work (Section 3(b), Rule I).

The following are obliged to give support to each other: (a) spouses; (b) legitimate ascendants and descendants; (c) parents and their legitimate and illegitimate children, including the latter’s legitimate and illegitimate children; and (d) legitimate brother and sisters, whether full or half-blood (Article 195, Family Code).

A child who is entitled to support is defined as a person below 18 years of age, or one who is 18 years of age and above who, because of a physical or mental disability, is unable to fully support himself or herself (Section 3(a), Rule I).

An action for support shall be filed or instituted in the court which has territorial jurisdiction over the place where the plaintiff or defendant actually resides, at the election of the plaintiff.

If the defendant does not reside in the Philippines or the defendant’s

whereabouts are unknown, the action shall be filed in the court where the plaintiff resides, or where any property of the defendant is located in the Philippines (Section 4, Rule II).

All pleadings to be filed in an action for support must be verified. The only pleadings allowed to be filed are the complaint, the answer which may contain a compulsory counterclaim and/or cross-claim, and the answer to the counterclaim and/or cross-claim (Section 5, Rule II).

A motion to dismiss the complaint is not allowed except on the following grounds: a) of lack of jurisdiction over the subject matter; b) that another action is pending between the same parties for the same cause; and c) that the cause of action is barred by a prior judgment.

However, any grounds that might warrant a dismissal of the case may be raised as an affirmative defense in the answer (Section 5, Rule II).

If the verified complaint for support is sufficient in form and substance, the judge shall immediately direct the clerk of court to issue and serve summons to the defendant, together with a copy of the complaint and its annexes. The defendant, upon receipt of the summons and complaint, must file his or her answer within fifteen (15) calendar days thereof (Sections 6 and 8, Rule II).

The period given in the Rules on Action for Support within which to file an answer is shorter than the period of thirty calendar days provided under the 2019 Amendments to the Rules of Civil Procedure (2019 ARCP). However, the court may fix a longer period not exceeding sixty (60) calendar days to file an answer in case the defendant is not a resident of the Philippines, or his or her whereabouts are unknown. A counterclaim or cross-claim incorporated in the answer must be answered by the plaintiff within fifteen (15) calendar days from its receipt (Section 8, Rule II).

A defendant may, for meritorious reasons, be granted an additional period of not more than fifteen (15) calendar days to file an answer. A defendant is only allowed to one (1) motion for extension of time to file an answer. The filing of a motion for extension to file any other pleading is prohibited and may be treated as a mere scrap of paper (Section 8, Rule II).

Under the Rules on Action for Support, the failure to file an answer or a motion to dismiss may cause the defendant to be declared in default under the provisions of Rule 9 of the 2019 ARCP. The failure to file an answer shall be without prejudice to any settlement agreement entered into by the parties in the course of the trial (Section 9, Rule II).

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Spanish researchers strike blow for COVID research equity

By Robin Millard SPAIN’S top research institution struck a licensing deal on Tuesday that paves the way for its COVID-19 antibody test to be produced more cheaply in developing countries.

The World Health Organization described the accord as the first transparent, global, non-exclusive license for a COVID-19 health tool, that should help towards correcting the “devastating global inequity” in access.

The deal brings the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) together with the global Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) and the WHO’s Covid-19 Technology Access Pool (C-TAP) knowledge-sharing platform.

“The aim of the license is to facilitate the rapid manufacture and commercialization of CSIC’s COVID-19 serological test worldwide,” the WHO said.

The test effectively detects anti-SARSCoV-2 antibodies developed in response to either a COVID-19 infection or a vaccine.

CSIC, one of Europe’s main public research institutions, will provide the MPP or prospective licensees with know-how and training.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the license, which will be royalty-free for low- and middleincome countries, as “the kind of open and transparent license we need to move the needle on access during and after the pandemic”.

He added: “I urge developers of

COVID-19 vaccines, treatments and diagnostics to follow this example and turn the tide... on the devastating global inequity this pandemic has spotlighted.”

C-TAP was founded in May 2020 as a platform for developers of COVID-19 tools to share knowledge and intellectual property.

Set up during the scramble for COVID vaccines and treatments, the health technology repository was first suggested by Costa Rican President Carlos Alvarado.

The information pool was intended as a voluntary global bank for IP and opensourced data as part of a common front against the new coronavirus.

Solidarity and equitable access can be achieved.

However, as it turned out, rival pharmaceutical companies have largely kept their findings to themselves rather than sharing them as global public goods.

Tuesday’s deal “shows that solidarity and equitable access can be achieved”, said Alvarado.

CSIC president Rosa Menendez said she hoped the move would serve as an example for other research organizations.

‘Preposterous’ tests hoarding The medical charity Doctors Without

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Under control but not out of the woods

HE Philippines may have tamed the spread of COVID-19 after daily cases plummeted to below 1,000 for two consecutive days. But the virus’ resurgence in Europe is a reminder that the infection rate can easily spike and come back with a vengeance in Asia, including the Philippines.

The infection rate can easily spike and come back with a vengeance.

The increasing vaccination rate in the Philippines is a major factor for the slowdown of COVID-19. About 76.5 million vaccine doses have been administered throughout the country as of Tuesday. Some 41.9 million Filipinos have received the first dose while more than 33.5 million obtained a second dose and single-dose shots.

The rising vaccination rate, however, is not an assurance that the Philippines has effectively contained COVID-19.

Lessons must be learned from the now-raging pandemic in Europe. The continent, along with the United States, is ironically one of the earliest regions that administered vaccine doses to its population.

Virtually all the country’s COVID data show that the Philippines has controlled COVID-19. The positivity rate is down to 2.3 percent, or well below the World Health Organization benchmark of 5 percent. Active cases have dropped to less than 18,000 while our hospitals are no longer overwhelmed with patients. Only 31 percent of ICU beds, 28 percent of isolation beds, 16 percent of ward beds and 19 percent of ventilators are now in use.

But the WHO has declared Europe as the epicenter of the pandemic again, with Germany as the hardest-hit nation.

Germany logged nearly 74,000 daily cases the other day, while the UK and France reported 43,676 and 32,591 cases, respectively.

The low vaccine rates in Eastern European countries, the waning protection of those who early obtained the doses, easing restrictions and colder weather that is prompting people to go indoors are being blamed for the COVID-19 spike in the continent.

Germany in response is now considering a vaccine mandate while Italy is pushing to ban the unvaccinated from several venues.

Amid the surging infection rate in Europe, the Philippines is advised to keep the face mask mandate and deliver booster shots at once. It may as well mandate the vaccination of the rest of the population to prevent what Europe is now experiencing.

Academic freedom allows SUCs to ban red books from their libraries LAST week, a commentary published in another newspaper argued that the recent decision of three state universities to ban subversive books from their respective libraries is not an exercise of academic freedom, but a violation of their students’ rights of free speech and free expression.

I completely disagree. The law and logic are on my side.

Although the commentary cites the Constitution as well as Philippine and American jurisprudence, it admits that there is no precise constitutional provision or judicial pronouncement to support its theory.

The commentary sweepingly assumes that a student of a state university or college (SUC) has the constitutional right to access every existing book in the world, but it does not cite any specific provision of the Constitution or decision of the Supreme Court to validate that assumption.

Pragmatically speaking, no SUC in the Philippines has that extensive a library, much less the budget for one.

The premise assumed in the commentary is faulty because not all books and publications are accessible by students and the public as a matter of right.

There are some books and publications which, because of their contents, are not legally accessible to anybody, students or otherwise.

For instance, obscene and pornographic books and publications are not accessible in libraries of an SUC because Philippine law prohibits the publication and dissemination of such books and publications. The Supreme Courts of both the Philippines and the United States have repeatedly upheld the validity of statutory bans against obscenity and pornography.

That observation applies to subversive publications of local communist organizations like the National Democratic Front, the Communist Party of the Philippines, and the New People’s Army.

Regardless of whatever form it takes or whatever name it goes by, communism espouses the violent overthrow of the dulyconstituted government of the Republic of the Philippines and its replacement by a lawless, intolerant and extremist socialist regime.

Thus, the State has the right to protect

itself against the communist menace.

Like its citizens, the State has the inherent right of self-preservation. That is why all subversive publications are illegal under Philippine laws.

Undoubtedly, the State has the right to use all its resources to defend its very existence. From that premise, SUCs have the legal authority to ban subversive books and publications from their libraries.

Borders (MSF) said the test could quantify three different types of antibodies—and crucially, differentiate vaccinated people from those with natural COVID infection.

“This feature will become very important for measuring the number of COVID-19 cases in countries and the impact of control measures,” it said.

In welcoming CSIC’s move, MSF diagnostics adviser Stijn Deborggraeve said it was “preposterous” in a global pandemic that tests were being monopolized by “a handful of privileged people and countries”.

The Geneva-based MPP is a UN-backed international organization that works to

facilitate the development of medicines for low- and middle-income nations.

The antibody test licensing accord is the third COVID-related deal that the global pool has struck in a month.

Last week, the MPP reached an agreement with US pharmaceutical giant Pfizer to make its prospective antiviral COVID-19 pill available more cheaply in 95 low- and middle-income countries via sublicensing to generic drug manufacturers.

The MPP signed a similar deal last month with Pfizer’s US rival Merck for its prospective oral antiviral medicine molnupiravir. AFP

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

Law and logic are on my side.

Since obscene and pornographic literature and subversive publications cannot be legally sold in bookstores or disseminated to the public, then they should not be made readily available in the libraries of SUCs. What is not allowed to be done directly, should not be allowed to be done indirectly.

To repeat, if local subversive organizations want to glorify or promote communism in the country, they should not expect the State to allow the use of government facilities for that purpose.

Insisting otherwise is akin to demanding that the State provide the gun to use against itself.

More to the point—the owner of a school library, whether state-owned or private, has the exclusive discretion to choose what books or publications should be and should not be put in the school library.

Nobody, not a court of law, and certainly not the radical and egotistical faculty of the University of the Philippines, can meddle with that discretion.

Therefore, since an SUC is the owner of its library, every SUC has the exclusive prerogative to decide what books can be put in its library, and what cannot.

When an SUC removes subversive publications from its library, the SUC not only defends the existence of the State which funds it; the SUC is protecting its students from the harmful influence of communism.

In legal disputes about a student’s exercise of free speech and freedom of expression, the issue is not whether certain books are

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banned from the library of his college or university. The issue is whether or not the student is prohibited by the school authorities from speaking his mind or from expressing himself, regardless of what the school library allows or disallows in its shelves.

Free speech and free expression have nothing to do with what an SUC may or may not put in its library. Banning a particular book from its library does not in any way prevent a student from speaking up or from expressing himself on any issue.

As I mentioned in this column two weeks ago, the academic freedom enjoyed by all institutions of higher learning includes the right to decide what to teach, and how to teach it. Necessarily, the right to decide “what to teach” includes the right to decide “what not to teach.” In turn, the right to decide “what not to teach” includes the right to decide what books and publications should be excluded from the college’s or university’s library.

Academic freedom allows SUCs to ban red books from their libraries.

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‘China’s carbon emissions fall for first time since lockdowns’

A LONG WAY FROM HOME. A migrant carries her children after being helped ashore from a RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) lifeboat at a beach in Dungeness, on the south-east coast of England, on Nov. 24, 2021, after being rescued while crossing the English Channel. The past three years have seen a significant rise in attempted Channel crossings by migrants, despite warnings of the dangers in the busy shipping lane between northern France and southern England, which is subject to strong currents and low temperatures. AFP

Rioters torch buildings in Solomon Is. RIOTERS torched buildings in the Solomon Islands’ capital of Honiara Thursday, targeting the city’s Chinatown district in a second day of anti-government protests.

Eyewitnesses and local media reported crowds had defied a government lockdown to take to the streets.

Live images showed several buildings engulfed in flames and plumes of thick black smoke billowing high above the capital.

It followed widespread disorder in Honiara on Wednesday, when demonstrators attempted to storm parliament and depose Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.

Businesses operated by Honiara’s Chinese community were looted and burned, prompting Beijing’s embassy to express “serious concerns” to the Solomons’ government. “(The embassy) made representations requesting the Solomon Islands to take all necessary measures to strengthen the protection of Chinese enterprises and personnel,” it said in a statement.

Sogavare said his government was still in control.

“Today I stand before you to inform you all that our country is safe – your government is in place and continues to lead our nation,” Sogavare said, adding that those responsible “will face the full brunt of the law.”

After failing to break into parliament on Wednesday, the rioters regrouped a day later, running amok in the Chinatown area and ransacking a police station, a local resident told AFP. The man, who did not want to be named, said police had erected roadblocks but the unrest showed no sign of abating. AFP

levels as cities and factories reopened.

But in the third quarter of this year, the country recorded a 0.5 percent yearon-year decline in emissions from fossil fuels and cement – the first quarterly fall since the post-lockdown rebound, CREA analyst Lauri Myllyvirta found.

The decline was caused by a construction slump after Beijing cracked down on speculation and debt in the real estate sector, as well as high coal prices that resulted in power rationing across the country, Myllyvirta said.

“The drop in emissions could mark a turning point and an early peak in China’s emissions total, years ahead of its target to peak before 2030,” Myllyvirta said in his report.

But he warned that “if the Chinese government injects further construction stimulus to boost its economy, emissions could rebound once again, before peaking later this decade.” AFP

RECORD-HIGH COVID INFECTIONS, FATALITIES:

Germany death toll passes 100,000

G

ERMANY announced record coronavirus fatalities and infections Thursday as its total death toll passed 100,000, with its most severe virus wave yet breaking just as a new government prepares to take the reins.

Europe’s largest economy recorded 351 fatalities in the past 24 hours, bringing the total death toll since the start of the pandemic to 100,119, according to figures from the Robert Koch Institute, a public health agency.

The weekly incidence rate also hit an all-time high of 419.7 new infections per 100,000 people, RKI announced.

The escalating health crisis poses an immediate challenge to the new coalition government set to take over from Angela Merkel’s cabinet next month.

The spike in Germany comes as Europe has reGermany weathered earlier bouts of the pandemic emerged as the pandemic’s epicentre, with the conbetter than many other European countries, but has seen a recent resurgence, with intensive care beds tinent battling sluggish vaccine uptake in some nations, the highly contagious Delta variant, colder rapidly filling up.

weather moving people indoors and the easing of restrictions.

Last week, more than 2.5 million cases and almost 30,000 COVID-related deaths were recorded in Europe, making it by far the region currently worst hit by the virus, according to AFP’s tally.

In a sign of the severity of the virus wave hitting Germany, its health sector has had to call on hospitals elsewhere in the EU for help.

Some hospitals are already facing an “acute overload” that has made it necessary to transfer COVID-19 patients abroad, according to Gernot Marx, head of the German Interdisciplinary Association for Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine. AFP

France, UK vow swift action after deadliest Channel migrant tragedy BRITAIN and France were on Thursday looking at new measures to limit migration across the Channel and break people-smuggling networks after at least 27 migrants trying to reach England drowned off the northern French coast.

The disaster is the deadliest accident since the Channel in 2018 became a hub for migrants from Africa, the Middle East and Asia who have been increasingly using small boats to reach England from France.

President Emmanuel Macron, after vowing France would not allow the Channel to become a “cemetery,” spoke to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson to agree on stepping up efforts to thwart the traffickers blamed for the surge in crossings.

Prime Minister Jean Castex also held a crisis meeting on Thursday with

Happy feet: Volunteer pedicurists help seniors GENTLY unwrapping cling film covering the old man’s damaged feet – skin darkened and cracked, nails lumpen and deformed – the Hong Kong beautician doesn’t flinch.

Instead she picks up her tools and starts working.

Once to twice a month, Cass Ng and her team of beauticians swap out their nail polish collection for tough scissors, nail files, and an electric drill.

Her initiative CHANGE (Caring Health Anywhere Nails Goal Elderly) offers free pedicures for low-income elderly people who cannot afford healthcare and do not have family to fall back on.

“We want to serve these people the most because they lack others’ love the most,” the 37-year-old told AFP. After three years of giving volunteer manicures, Ng was inspired to start her own social enterprise to help those – often over 65 and on social benefits – unable to afford the city’s expensive private healthcare.

While Hong Kong has a public healthcare system, many complain they have to wait for long periods to be seen with various ailments getting worse.

One of those visiting Ng’s free clinic for the first time was Martin Sun, 71, who said he had been troubled by ingrowing toenails and fungal infections for years.

He describes that day’s treatment, a full pedicure, as a blessed relief.

“If not, I would do it myself, bend down, then take a deep breath, and endure the pain,” he said of trying to do the same work himself.

Kwan Lung, 86, gave a thumbs up and beamed during her visit to the clinic at the Kwai Chung community center.

“The more they (the manicurists) come, the happier we old people are,” the grandmother explained. AFP

CHINA’S CO2 emissions fell in the third quarter for the first time since the country reopened from COVID-19 lockdowns, research published Thursday showed, in what experts said could mark a carbon “turning point” for the country.

But the threat of economic slowdown could soon prompt authorities to turn to infrastructure stimulus measures, raising emissions again, the research by the Center for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) warned.

The world’s second biggest economy has vowed to peak emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060 – but authorities have struggled to wean the country off its dependence on fossil fuels.

China’s emissions fell dramatically in early 2020 due to sweeping quarantines aimed at curbing the coronavirus, then rebounded to higher than 2019 monthly

ministers to discuss new measures, his office said.

Seventeen men, seven women and three minors died when the inflatable boat lost air and took on water off the northern port of Calais on Wednesday, according to public prosecutors in Lille. A manslaughter probe has been opened.

The disaster poses a new challenge to cooperation between France and Britain after Brexit. Initial statements from both sides pinning responsibility on the other party to act indicated the tragedy will not be an automatic catalyst for cooperation.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said a total of five suspected traffickers accused of being directly linked to the doomed crossing had been arrested, the fifth man suspected of buying inflatable boats for the crossing. AFP

Interpol elects general accused of torture

LARGER THAN DEATH. Young people hold up posters of Cuban late leader Fidel Castro during the vigil for the 5th anniversary of his physical disappearance in Havana, on November 24, 2021. Five years after Castro’s death, the revolution he started in 1959 appears to be at an impasse, with Cuba’s economy battered and an ever-larger part of its population clamoring for change. AFP

INTERPOL elected an Emirati general accused of torture as its new president on Thursday, despite the concerns of human rights organisations who fear the agency will be at risk of exploitation by repressive regimes.

The appointment follows generous funding by the United Arab Emirates for the Lyon, France-based body and accusations that Abu Dhabi has abused Interpol’s system of so-called “red notices” for wanted suspects to persecute political dissidents.

Emirati General Ahmed Nasser Al Raisi was elected following three rounds of voting during which he received 68.9 percent of votes cast by member countries, Interpol said in a statement.

After his election, Raisi tweeted he

would “build a more transparent, diverse, and decisive organization that works to ensure safety for all.”

However, Raisi did not address the accusations, but said the “UAE has become one of the safest countries in the world.”

Complaints of “torture” were filed against the Emirati general in recent months in France and Turkey, which is hosting Interpol’s general assembly in Istanbul this week.

Raisi, head of the UAE’s security forces, will take on a largely ceremonial and part-time voluntary role for a four-year term.

Interpol Secretary General Juergen Stock handles day-to-day running of the organisation. He was appointed for a second five-year term in 2019. AFP

Seoul trials pint-sized teaching aid robot ‘Alpha Mini’ in nursery schools SEOUL has started trialling pint-sized robots as teaching aids in kindergartens—a pilot project the city government said would help prepare the next generation for a hi-tech future.

The “Alpha Mini” is just 24.5 centimeters tall and can dance, lead sing-a-longs, recite stories and even teach kung-fu moves as children mimic its push-ups and one-legged balances.

“The robots help with the kids’ creativity,” teacher Byun Seo-yeon told AFP during a visit to the bright and busy Maru nursery in Seoul.

The robot’s eyes wink and blink – and its pupils become heart-shaped during conversation.

With a camera on its helmet, it takes photos that are instantly sent to a tablet for viewing.

“In the future, knowing how to manage AI and related tools will be very important,” Han Dong-seog, from the Seoul government’s child care division, told AFP. The robots are being trialed in 300 Seoul nurseries and childcare centers, with the government recommending the programme for children aged three to five.

“We believe having this experience in nursery schools will have a lasting effect throughout their youth and as adults,” Han said.

The Alpha Mini has been adopted as part of a daily schedule for the class of four- to five-year-old students at Maru, with its ability to “fart” on command being a highlight during playtime.

“When I tell it to sing, it sings well. I tell it to dance and we dance together,” said five-year-old Lee Ga-yoon. AFP

In this picture, young students interact with a 24.5 centimeter tall ‘Alpha Mini’ robot that can dance, lead sing-a-longs, recite stories and even teach kung-fu moves as children mimic its push-ups and one-legged balances, in a pilot project being trialed in 300 Seoul pre-schools that typically educate children aged three to six, at the Maru nursery school in Seoul. AFP

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Cathay Pacific to reduce flights as Hong Kong virus rules bite HONG KONG—Cathay Pacific on Thursday said it will slash passenger flights into Hong Kong next month as the city’s strict travel curbs continue to keep international travelers away at a time when rivals are seeing their prospects improve.

Hong Kong has maintained some of the world’s harshest quarantine measures and travel restrictions during the pandemic, which has kept infections low but ensured a business hub that dubs itself “Asia’s World City” has been cut off internationally for the past 20 months.

The government has tied the city’s fortunes to China’s strict coronavirus strategy and said normalization of travel with the mainland must come before any reopening to the rest of the world.

On Thursday Cathay announced it was “canceling a number of flights to Hong Kong” for December blaming “operational and travel restrictions that remain in place.”

As the peak holiday season approaches, the airline will convert around one-third of flights bound for Hong Kong to handle cargo, the South China Morning Post reported citing company sources. Outbound flights would remain untouched for now, with about 620 scheduled in December, the paper added.

Like most international carriers, Cathay has been hammered by the coronavirus pandemic wiping out much international travel.

But it is especially vulnerable because it has no domestic market to fall back on and is based in an international finance hub that has embraced mainland China’s “zero-COVID” plan.

In contrast, rival Singapore Airlines is seeing flights and passenger numbers pick up as that city begins reopening to the outside world and switching to learning to live with the virus.

Last week Hong Kong authorities ordered more than 100 Cathay cargo crew into mandatory quarantine after three of their colleagues who stayed at the same layover hotel in Germany tested positive on return. AFP

Fed officials divided over inflation risk WASHINGTON—At the meeting where they announced the rollback of their pandemic stimulus measures, some Federal Reserve officials wanted swifter action and worried about price increases, according to minutes released Wednesday.

The Fed earlier this month announced it would begin the process of tapering its monthly purchases of bonds and securities meant to help the economy weather the COVID-19 downturn, at a pace that would put the central bank on track to end them entirely by the middle of next year.

The announcement came as inflation climbs well above the Fed’s twopercent target, upping pressure on top officials including Chair Jerome Powell who have said the price increases will be temporary and hiking rates too early could prevent jobless people from being rehired.

“A number of participants discussed the risk that, in light of recent elevated levels of inflation, the public’s longer-term expectations of inflation might increase to a level above that consistent with the committee’s longer-run inflation objective,” according to minutes from the November 2-3 meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC).

The Fed had been buying at least $80 billion in Treasury bonds and at least $40 billion in mortgage-backed securities each month.

At the FOMC meeting’s conclusion, officials voted to cut those down by $10 billion for the former each month and $5 billion for the latter beginning in November.

However the minutes said, “Some participants preferred a somewhat faster pace of reductions that would result in an earlier conclusion to net purchases.”

Controlling inflation is part of the Fed’s mandate, and the central bank’s most potent tool to do that is through interest rates.

Fed officials have made clear they won’t lift their rate from zero until the asset purchase taper is over, and speeding up that process would allow them to do so sooner. AFP

PSEi November 25, 2021

TOP GAINERS

S

HARE prices retreated Thursday on profit taking, with investors waiting for catalysts that could nudge them to actively trade in the market.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index shed 49.83 points, or 0.7 percent, to 7,369.27 on a value turnover of almost P8 billion. Losers overwhelmed gainers, 126 to 62, with 51 issues unchanged.

Fiber broadband services provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. fell 3.6 percent to P30.35, while Globe Telecom Inc., the second-biggest mobile player, declined 2.8 percent to P3,500.

GT Capital Holdings Inc. of the Ty Group dropped 2.9 percent to P602, while unit Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co., the second-largest lender in terms of assets, lost 2 percent at P50.50.

The rest of equity markets in Asia were

mixed in edgy trade Thursday as a batch of strong economic data spurred expectations that the Federal Reserve will withdraw its vast financial support and lift interest rates earlier than thought.

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq closed Wednesday with healthy gains ahead of the Thanksgiving break.

But the Dow edged slightly lower, and Asia largely followed suit.

Tokyo led gains thanks to a rally in the dollar against the yen that helps exporters—while Wellington, Taipei and Jakarta also edged up.

Hong Kong, Sydney, Wellington, Taipei, Mumbai and Jakarta were up, though Shanghai, Singapore and Bangkok edged down. Seoul was weighed by the South Korean central bank’s decision to lift interest rates for a second time.

A drop in jobless claims to a fivedecade low, along with a surge in consumer income and spending, reinforced optimism that the United States is well

on the recovery track—but added to pressure on the central bank to prevent overheating.

The readings came as minutes from the Fed’s November policy meeting showed officials were moving towards tapering their vast bond-buying program—known as quantitative easing— at a faster pace as they try to tame rocketing prices.

While officials agreed to lower the number of bonds bought each month from the start of November, the minutes said that “some participants preferred a somewhat faster pace of reductions that would result in an earlier conclusion to net purchases.”

They added that the policy board would be prepared to “raise the target range for the federal funds rate sooner than participants currently anticipated if inflation continued to run higher than levels consistent with the Committee’s objectives”. With AFP

% CHANGE CHANGE

1

PHA

0.79

0.17

27.42%

2

LBC

22.55

2.25

11.08%

3 4

ZHI APVI

0.19 19.26

0.014 1.18

7.95% 6.53%

5

IDC

1.9

0.11

6.15%

6

HOME

9.7

0.5

5.43%

7

MARC

1.47

0.07

5.00%

8

MB

0.43

0.02

4.88%

9

ACEX

23.8

1.1

4.85%

10

FERRO

3.4

0.14

4.29%

TOP LOSERS

AUTO SHOW. Visitors look at cars during a press preview of the Seoul Mobility Show at KINTEX exhibition hall in Goyang, South Korea on November 25, 2021. AFP

Stocks retreat; Globe, Converge lead losers

LAST PRICE

LAST PRICE

% CHANGE CHANGE

1

BCP

31.55

-13.45

-29.89%

2

PHES

0.58

-0.07

-10.77%

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

MAHB OPM I ALHI IPO FPI FAF RLT

1.43 0.01 1 6.92 6.95 0.27 0.59 0.215

-0.17 -0.001 -0.09 -0.55 -0.54 -0.02 -0.04 -0.014

-10.63% -9.09% -8.26% -7.36% -7.21% -6.90% -6.35% -6.11%

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

MONDE CNVRG ACEN AC SMPH GLO ICT BDO PHA URC

VOLUME 77,049,300 23,640,400 50,309,100 415,900 8,790,000 75,155 1,069,610 1,588,780 227,475,000 1,210,420

VALUE (PHP) 1,369,085,220 722,365,020 600,527,006 368,669,945 322,203,980 265,203,400 209,767,902 208,377,883 181,369,980 159,829,008

From crypto to COVID: Why auction prices are rocketing

By Hugues Hnore and Eric Randolph PARIS, France—From Albert Einstein’s notes to a recordbreaking Frida Kahlo to a 6.6-million-euro triceratops— auction houses have lately seen a string of record-breaking items going under the hammer and through the roof.

Valuations are becoming hard to judge.

On Wednesday, the Einstein manuscript went for 11.3 million euros ($13 million) in Paris, five times its expected price.

That came just days after a storyboard for the failed 1970s film version of “Dune” sparked a bidding war that pushed the price 100 times above the valuation to 2.7 million euros.

Market watcher Artprice credits a transition to online sales for sparking new levels of interest, particularly in the US and Asia.

“The auction houses were very behind the times. But COVID forced them to modernize and the result is that online sales have been spectacular and have attracted a new audience,” said Artprice founder Thierry Ehrmann.

Many dynamics are changing, he said, giving the example of 30-somethings who prefer to collect art than buy their first home.

‘Spectacular’ After an initial freeze as the pandemic took hold in 2020, online auctions exploded later in the year as millions hunted for new ways to kill time and spend money during lockdowns.

With stock markets soaring in the pandemic, the rich got significantly richer, while struggling to find ways to spend it.

This has helped push the old masters to new heights.

This month alone in New York, a Van Gogh went for especially in the 1980s when the art market looked in $71.3 million and a Kahlo self-portrait set a new record danger of overheating under the pressure of a new genfor the Mexican artist’s work at nearly $35 million. eration of yuppies trying to flash their cash.

But it has also created a hunger for almost anything But despite several cooling-off periods—including the collectable, from Michael Jordan sneakers ($1.5 million), 2008 financial crash and a sharp drop between 2015 and to an original copy of the US Constitution ($43 million) 2019—the overall trend has been skyward. to an 800,000-euro bottle of Burgundy wine.

Artprice says the contemporary art market has grown “At a time when many art fairs can’t happen in person from $103 million in 2000 to $2.7 billion today. AFP and online viewing rooms are awful, auctions have become a predominant form of EXTRA-JUDICIAL NOTICE OF LOSS For SETTLEMENT of NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN selling,” Anna Brady, art markets reporter ESTATE THAT THE ST. JOHN COLLEGES for The Arts Newspaper, said on its podfast ad STOCK CERTIFICATE NOS. Notice is hereby given F-886 (36 share), C-1011 (18 that the estate of the cast. shares), F-1001 (49 shares), results, late MARTIN AUGUSTO Brady highlighted the infusion of cash C-1381 (23 shares), F-1117 (172 ARAULLO MANJON has shares), C-1862 (82 shares), been extra-judicially settled from a new source: crypto-millionaires. please F-1152 (51 shares), C-1998 (24 among his heirs consisting They have expanded from an initial shares), C-2231 (2067 shares) of: call ISSUED TO ALBERTO ALCASID focus on digital art—such as the mind• 1/3 Condominium Unit No. RIVERA HAVE BEEN REPORTED 1110 Brent Bldg. Pasig MISSING, PER AFFIDAVIT OF boggling $69 million paid for a JPG file by City.

LOSS DATED NOV. 4, 2021 AND one of its pioneers, Beeple, in March—into RECORDED AS DOC. NO. 315, As per Doc. No. 217; Advertising PAGE NO. 64, BOOK NO. 6, more traditional tastes.

Page No. 45; Book No. SEREIES OF 2021 OF NOTARY CCCXXX; Series of 2021 Crypto “whale” Justin Sun has bought Department PUBLIC AARON S. TOLENTINO before Notary Public ATTY. OF PARAÑAQUE CITY, METRO DOMINGO B. TEJERO. works by Picasso and Andy Warhol this MANILA. 8564-6229 (MS-NOV. 12,19 & 26, 2021) (MS-NOV. 26, DEC. 3 & 10, 2021) year, and paid $78.4 million for Alberto Giacometti’s “The Nose” sculpture this month.

Republic of the Philippines Sun then triggered a lot of harrumphing DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION among stuffed shirts of the art world by boasting about his purchase on Twitter— breaching their traditional codes of secrecy and discretion in a way that suggests an NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING even more competitive market to come.

‘Become natural’ On the ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT (EIS) of the proposed Is it all a bubble?

NEW CEBU INTERNATIONAL CONTAINER PORT PROJECT of It’s a question that’s been raised before, the DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (DOTr) to be located in BARANGAY TAYUD, MUNICIPALITY OF CONSOLACION, CEBU.

Notice is hereby given to all parties who wish to give their opinion regarding the implementation of the proposed NEW CEBU INTERNATIONAL CONTAINER PORT PROJECT to attend the Public Hearings scheduled as follows: Date

Time

Venue

07 December 2021

9:00 AM Registration Starts at 8:00AM

On-Site: 5th Floor Consolacion Municipal Hall, Consolacion Online: Zoom Meeting ID: 833 7093 3614 Passcode: 433302 Meeting Link: https://us06web.zoom. us/j/83370933614?pwd=U 2ZRMm4vc3hwVkVONVJ GTEExMjdlUT09

The Public Hearing is being conducted in connection with the review of the EIS of the aforementioned project by the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

The project’s EIS and Executive Summary for the Public are downloadable at the EMB 7 website: Environmental Management Bureau Region 7 (emb.gov.ph) (kindly access the “Announcement” link found in the EMB 7 website).

A page of one of the ten Alejandro Jodorowsky’s epic 1970 Dune storyboard copies is displayed to the public three days before an auction at Christie’s Paris gallery, on November 19, 2021. Christie’s auctioned off the storyboard, featuring original illustrations by Moebius and H.R. Giger, AKA the Swiss painter behind Alien’s concept art, in Paris on November 22, 2021. The project of the movie ran out of funding. AFP

Should you have questions and clarifications, please do not hesitate to contact us through our designated focal person for this Department, Engr.

Mario Tan of the Cebu Port Authority via email at ncipp@cpa.gov.ph and/or mobile number +63 9 1763 1 9800, or the LTI Environmental focal person, Mr. Emmanuel Cleofas, LTI Managing Director, Ms. Rachel A. Vasquez, at +63 2 8637 8209, and Arup Environmental Coordinator, Ms. Nicole Guerra at +63 2 3485 8167.

(MS-NOV. 26 & 30, 2021)

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AirAsia PH to rehire 432 pilots, crew

By Darwin G. Amojelar AIRASIA Philippines said Thursday it will implement a gradual activation of its workforce who were placed under hibernation at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ricky Isla, chief executive of AirAsia Philippines, said in a virtual briefing that 432 workers including pilots, cabin crew, ground staff and engineers were previously placed under hibernation at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The reintegration of these employees will enable AirAsia to meet the growing market demand and prepare its workforce to deliver world’s best service to its guests, as air travel progresses with travel restrictions eased in all of its destinations, allowing enhanced mobility for fully-vaccinated individuals, he said.

“We are excited to welcome back our Allstars whom we’ve missed so much. More than just a source of livelihood, I know they can’t wait to paint the skies red, and write with us a beautiful and winning story of our post pandemic recovery,” Isla said.

“To say that the past months have been extremely challenging is an understatement. But we are all survivors, thriving amidst all odds. What we want to assure our guests is that during the process of reintegration, there will be no shortcuts, and we will continue to uphold the highest standards of safety in all of our training and procedures,” he said.

The gradual activation will initially cover 15 percent of the hibernated workforce, mostly pilots and cabin crew to undergo recurrent training starting in December, while the remaining 85 percent will be progressively integrated back into line in the first quarter of 2022 subject to market demand, said Isla.

The rehiring of former employees who were let go at the onset of the pandemic might come earlier than expected.

LRWC planning to raise P2.33b from share sale

By Jenniffer B. Austria GAMING company Leisure & Resorts World Corp. plans to raise fresh capital from the sale of up to 1.55 billion common shares through a private placement.

Based on LRWC’s closing price of P1.50 per share on Thursday, the proposed sale of 1.55 billion common shares will enable it to raise up to P2.33 billion.

The shares will come from the unissued capital stock of the company and will have the same features as the existing common shares, including voting and dividend rights.

The proceeds from the fund raising exercise will be used to refinance debts and for general corporate purposes.

LRWC said it had P3.59 billion in liabilities as of end-September.

LRWC said it would apply for confirmation for an exempt transaction from the Securities and Exchange Commission as the shares will be sold to less than 19 investors.

The company will hold a special stockholders’ meeting on Jan. 22, 2022 to seek shareholders’ approval on the planned private placement.

LRWC earlier reported a net loss of P106.8 million in the third quarter, narrower than the P284.6-million loss it booked in the same period last year.

Gross revenues rose 16.5 percent in the third quarter to P486.6 million from P417.7 million a year ago.

LRWC is primarily in the business of gaming, recreation, leisure and lease of property.

It plans to revive its proposed casino project in Boracay after President Rodrigo Duterte lifted the moratorium on new casino developments in September.

Business 10-month budget deficit swelled by 28% to P1.2t T

By Julito G. Rada

HE government’s budget deficit rose 4.77 percent in October to P64.3 billion from P61.4 billion a year ago after a 10.9-percent revenue growth and a 9.60-percent increase in government spending, the Bureau of the Treasury said Thursday.

The figure brought the 10-month budget deficit to P1.2 trillion, 27.94 percent or P262.8 billion higher than the P940.6billion shortfall posted in the same period last year. It represented 65 percent of the P1.9 trillion 2021 revised program.

Total revenue grew 10.9 percent or P24.9 billion in October to P253.1 billion from P228.2 billion a year earlier, with tax collection making up 87 percent or P219.1

billion of the total while non-tax revenue contributed 13 percent or P34.0 billion.

Cumulative collection as of end-October reached P2.5 trillion, equivalent to 86 percent of the P2.9-trillion revised program for the year and 5 percent or P118.6billion improvement from a year ago.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue’s net collection increased to P162.1 billion in October, 6.60 percent or P10 billion higher than last year’s achievement of P152.1 billion. The ten-month tax collection of P1.7 trillion reflected a 6.83 percent or P109.0 billion increase over similar collections in 2020 and comprised 82 percent of its revised full-year target of P2.1 trillion.

The Bureau of Customs grew its collection by 9.76 percent or P4.9 billion from P50.6 billion a year ago to P55.5 billion in October. This resulted in BOC’s cumulative uptake of P525.4 billion for the 10-month period, 17.10 percent or P76.7 billion better than the P448.6 billion attained in the same period in 2020 and represented 85 percent of the P616.7 billion adjusted program for the year.

Collection by the Bureau of the Treasury amounted to P9.0 billion in October, up by 30.01 percent or P2.1 billion year-on-year on higher dividend remittances and share of the national government from PAGCOR’s profit and investment income. The BTr’s aggregate collection of P114.5 billion from January to October declined by 45.07 percent or P94.0 billion due to the high base effect of last year’s remittances in compliance with Bayanihan I. The government’s disbursement in October reached P317.4 billion, 9.60 percent or P27.8 billion above the P289.6 billion disbursed in the same month last year. The year-to-date expenditure of P3.7 trillion surpassed the previous year’s spending by 11.51 percent or P381.4 billion.

Ninety percent or P285.8 billion of the total disbursements in October was for primary expenditures, which posted a 6.86-percent or P18.3-billion growth for the month. This pushed the cumulative primary expenditures to P3.3 trillion, up by 11.61 percent or P345.6 billion year-on-year.

PSE INDEX CLOSING Thursday, November 25, 2021 -49.83 PTS. 7,369.27

TOTAL VOLUME TOTAL TRADES

1,309,257,222 100,137

TOTAL VALUE ADVANCES

7,997,737,798.03 62

DECLINES UNCHANGED

126 51

F oreign e xchange r ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2021

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

50.5180

Japan

Yen

0.008665

0.4377

UK

Pound

1.332900

67.3354

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.128231

6.4780

Switzerland

Franc

1.070091

54.0589

Canada

Dollar

0.789515

39.8847

Singapore

Dollar

0.730941

36.9257

Australia

Dollar

0.719500

36.3477

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652450

133.9965

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266610

13.4686

Brunei

Dollar

0.728279

36.7912

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000070

0.0035

Thailand

Baht

0.030012

1.5161

UAE

Dirham

0.272279

13.7550

Euro

Euro

1.120100

56.5852

Korea

Won

0.000841

0.0425

China

Yuan

0.156443

7.9032

India

Rupee

0.013404

0.6771

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.237586

12.0024

New Zealand

Dollar

0.687300

34.7210

Taiwan

Dollar

0.035976

1.8174 Source: BSP

IN BRIEF A Brown reports 68% profit growth

A BROWN Company Inc. on Thursday reported a 68-percent increase in third-quarter net income to P142 million from P84.6 million in the same period last year despite lower revenues.

ABCI said in a disclosure to the stock exchange third-quarter revenues declined 24 percent to P206 million from P270.7 million a year ago.

“Higher margins in the real estate segment due to lower development costs for the residential units sold contributed to the higher net income,” the company said.

The positive third-quarter performance boosted the company’s nine-month net income to P368 million, up 23.4 percent from P298.2 million in the same period in 2020.

Nine-month revenues declined 17.2 percent to P495.5 million from P598.4 million.

Real estate sales accounted for 89 percent of the consolidated revenues at P441 million. Jenniffer B. Austria

MPIC wins at Asian Excellence Awards

METRO Pacific Investments Corp. recently won big at the 11th Asian Excellence Awards, earning six coveted recognitions for corporate governance, investor relations and corporate social responsibility.

Accolades included Asia’s Best CEO (Investor Relations) for Mr. Jose Ma. Lim, Asia’s Best CFO (Investor Relations) for Chaye Cabal-Revilla, Best Investors Relations Professional for MPIC vice president for investor relations Maricris AldoverYsmael, Best Investor Relations Company (Philippines), Best Environmental Responsibility and Asia’s Best CSR. Amid the new normal brought upon by the COVID-19 pandemic, MPIC remained resolute in its purpose of service continuity and dedication to stakeholders, primarily its internal employees, investors, beneficiary communities and ultimately, the environment. Beyond profit and compliance, MPIC dedicated its commitment to broader stakeholder interests that will be key in trudging forward towards the new global economic normal.

LAGUNA TECHNOPARK TENANT. AyalaLand Logistics Holdings Corp. signs a deal with Newbie Station Logistic Inc., granting the latter 13,000 square meters of gross leasable area of ready-built facilities at the ALogis Biñan 4 warehouse hub at Laguna Technopark, one of ALLHC’s premier industrial estates spanning the cities of Sta. Rosa and Biñan. Newbie Station is a logistics company serving top e-commerce industries. Signing the lease agreement are (seated, from left) ALLHC president and chief executive Maria Rowena Tomeldan and Newbie Logistic general manager Yingjun Lan.

DOF ready to ensure smooth economic transition in 2022 THE Duterte administration is ready to assist the new presidency during the transition period next year in addressing four primary concerns that will affect economic stability beyond 2022, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said in an economic forum Thursday morning.

The four issues involve prudent debt management in relation to expanding the economy above 6 percent a year; inflation caused by global shortages; pandemic-induced inequalities; and climate change.

Dominguez said the country was poised for a strong recovery toward a more inclusive economy owing to the strength of its institutions.

He said the administration also introduced numerous policy reforms

to build a business-friendly environment including the reduction of red tape; the digital transformation of public agencies; implementation of a national ID system; infrastructure modernization; and a rationalized corporate income tax and fiscal incentives policy through the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises law.

The remaining period of President Duterte’s term will be focused on rapidly modernizing governance; accelerating the rollout of the “Build, Build, Build” infrastructure program; and continuing with the market-friendly reforms attractive to investments, Dominguez said.

“The Duterte administration will also ensure that the next presidency

will be ably assisted during the transition period in addressing four key issues that will impact the Philippines’ economic stability. These include ways on how to prudently manage the debt we have accumulated and grow our gross domestic product at a rate higher than 6 percent per annum as we have done. We need to deal with the issue of inflation brought about by shortages around the world,” Dominguez said.

Dominguez said during Maybank’s 25th anniversary Wednesday night that climate finance involving both adaptation and mitigation projects would become a principal concern as all countries would be engaged in transitioning their economies by way of actual projects on the ground. Julito G. Rada

Pag-IBIG Fund named most trusted GOCC

PAG-IBIG Fund is the most-trusted government-run corporation, according to the 2021 Philippine Trust Index, a nationwide survey by the EON Group that cuts across backgrounds to measure Filipinos’ trust in the government, the business sector, the media, non-governmental organizations, the church and the academe.

“We are truly honored to be included in the list of most trusted government agencies.

The latest results of the Philippine Trust Index and our 9th straight unmodified opinion from COA show that we have fulfilled our duties during the pandemic while still maintaining the highest standards of transparency and integrity in our work. This is aligned with President Duterte’s vision of clean government with heart for service,” said Secretary Eduardo del Rosario, who heads the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development and the 11-member Pag-IBIG Fund board of trustees.

The 2021 PTI noted that “in terms of government agencies, departments that got the highest trust are those whose functions require them to remain engaged with the public, even during the pandemic such as online learning, finance regulation, loan assistance and aid distribution.”

The Department of Education earned the highest trust rating of 91 percent, followed

by Pag-IBIG Fund at 89 percent – the highest among GOCCs on the list.

BOI encourages investors to consider Davao

By Othel V. Campos THE Board of Investments called on investors to consider Davao Region as a competitive and attractive location for business projects following a big drop in investments to P4.61 billion in 2020, or nearly half from P8.27 billion in 2019.

Board of Investments executive director Bobby Fondevilla said during the Davao Investment Conference the government aims to further connect Davao Region to other parts of the world and showcase it as a “suitable place for global investors.”

Fondevilla presented the menu of incentives offered by the government under the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act and how investments may qualify for the Strategic Investments Priorities Plan.

He underscored Davao’s journey following an economic setback during the pandemic, as the region recorded a decline in approved investments in 2020

from the previous year.

Real estate activities brought in the largest amount of investments in the region worth P3.19 billion in 2019, followed by electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply with P2.19 billion.

Manufacturing investments were at P2.02 billion, while other investments came from waste management and remediation activities at P586.5 million; transportation and storage, P201.6 million; agriculture, forestry, and fishing, P57.3 million; and, water supply, sewerage, administrative and support service activities, P13.8 million.

Real estate continued to be the preferred investment in Davao in 2020 with investments of P2.17 billion. Investments in accommodation and food service ranked second with P1.8 billion while agriculture, forestry, and fishing contributed P636.6 million. Other projects were the P139.87 million human health and social work projects and the P15 million investment into administrative and support service.

LRMC ADVOCACY. Light Rail Transit Line 1 private operator Light Rail Manila Corp. beefs up its partnership with Binhi English Literacy Foundation, a non-profit and non-governmental organization, as it engages partner companies Alstom and Bouygues in supporting more classes for its advocacy of nation-building through quality education. Started in School Year 2020-2021, the partnership between LRMC and Binhi English Literacy Foundation began with one class at Marcela Marcelo Elementary School in Pasay City.

Sports

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Randy M. Caluag, Assistant Editor FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2021

Petro Gazz bags bronze with win over Perlas Spikers The Crossovers’ Ria Meneses towers over the Perlas Spikers.

PNVF PHOTO

Sotto makes pro NBL debut on Dec. 3, says transition easy

By Peter Atencio

Kai Sotto

F

ILIPINO basketball phenom Kai Sotto feels like he never left home when he starts playing for the Adelaide 36ers in the 2020-2021 Australian National Basketball League.

Although he has only played one game in the preseason, the 19-year-old Sotto said the style of play in Australia is similar to how Filipinos play the game of basketball.

“I don’t really find it difficult, the transition. Because the game of basketball in Australia is similar to the Philippines.

It’s more systematic, more fundamentals and team basketball,” said the 7’2” Filipino cager.

Sotto, who discussed his thoughts about playing in the Australian professional league with scribes in a Zoom huddle hosted by Tap Go, is getting ready to suit up for the 36ers when the regular season of the NBL gets going Dec. 3.

The 36ers, under coach CJ Bruton, will have the Perth Wildcats in their first encounter at the RAC Arena, Perth.

Because of the similarities in the playing styles, Sotto said

he expects to be able to play better this time around.

Seven months ago, Sotto signed a contract to play for the Adelaide 36ers as a “Special Restricted Player”.

This means that he is treated the same way as a local player and won’t be subjected to the NBL’s import limit.

Sotto’s contract guarantees him two years with the 36ers, with an option to play for a third year.

By then, Sotto expects to have moved on and continued with his plans of entering the National Basketball Association Rookie Draft.

Sotto is transitioning from a different playing style after he signed with the NBA G League last year and joined the G League Ignite team as part of the league’s new developmental program.

Ignite joined the 2020–21 season in a competition played inside a bubble in Florida.

But Sotto, who opted to play for the Gilas Pilipinas national team at the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers, missed several games with Ignite and was unable to rejoin the team due to issues caused by COVID-19 pandemic-related travel restrictions.

Now that he’s about to plunge into action next week, Sotto said the support of Filipino fans watching on television and even at the playing venues is pumping him up.

“Of course, it’s always different when your countrymen is watching you, supporting you,” said Sotto.

Ramirez expects athletics’ body, Obiena to submit to mediation

Philip Juico

THE Philippine Sports Commission has done the first step in its effort to mediate the ongoing conflict involving Tokyo Olympic veteran Ernest John Obiena and the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association.

Obiena got involved in the controversy after the PATAFA alleged that the world’s no.

6 pole vaulter may have falsified liquidation reports and failed to turn over payment for his coach Vitaly Petrov.

PSC chairman William “Butch” Ramirez said he has forwarded a “Mediation Submission Agreement” to both parties for their review.

Ramirez said he expects both parties to signify their agreement by signing the document.

Ernest John Obiena

“The role of the mediator is merely to facilitate communication, identify issues and help the parties arrive at a settlement.

My role as mediator is not to decide who is right or wrong. We are after a win-win solution for both sides. The goal is to preserve relationships of the disputing parties,” said Ramirez in a statement.

The PATAFA, led by its president Philip Ella Juico, has already organized two investigating bodies to look into the row.

Liquidation paperwork on the receipt of Petrov’s 85,000 euro funding allocation is being reviewed by the panels.

The probers are also now evaluating the affidavits of top World Athletics official Sergey Bubka and the written statement of

Petrov, who initially alleged that he “did not receive any monthly coach’s fees for the years 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021,” for his services to Obiena. He later retracted his statement in a zoom conference with the Filipino pole vaulter, saying he was already paid in full.

Ramirez hopes that the issue can be settled as soon as possible. Peter Atencio

Constantino nears 3rd golf crown with 69

SILANG, Cavite – Harmie Constantino proved clutch as she shouldered herself past Mafy Singson and Chanelle Avaricio with a pair of birdies that put her on top by two and closer to another title romp after a 69 in the second round of the ICTSI Riviera Ladies Challenge here yesterday.

Locked in a frenetic chase for the lead with Singson and Avaricio, Constantino outplayed the top amateur in the closing holes in the last flight, birdying Nos. 13 and 16 of the Couples course that went well with her opening 35 for the tournament-best three-under card that moved her 18 holes away from nailing a third crown in an impressive maiden pro season on a 141 aggregate.

“I played steady, hit a lot of greens but didn’t hole much putts,” said Constantino, who birdied Nos. 2 and 7 to negate a mishap on the sixth.

When asked what it will take to win again after struggling to finish fourth in harsh conditions at Tagaytay Highlands two weeks ago, the former national champion, who swept the Eagle Ridge-Aoki legs, said: “Consistency. Couples is tough, it’s shorter but tighter compared to the other championship courses.”

Avaricio, twice foiled for a breakthrough by absentee Princess Superal at Sherwood and Eagle Ridge-Norman last July, tied Constantino at two-under overall af-

ter a birdie on No. 15 in a flight ahead. But the Alabama State U product bogeyed the 17th and settled for a 71 to slip to second at 143.

“My game was much better than yesterday (first round). I just stayed patient and calm although I played careless on some holes,” said Avaricio. “But I’ll to do better tomorrow (today), I’m not expecting too much but I think patience will be the key.”

Singson, who matched Constantino’s opening 72 for a share of the lead, held her ground with a one-under card after 11 holes but lost her momentum and bogeyed three of the last six and reeled with a 74.

She tumbled to third at 146, now five strokes behind Constantino and in a tie with fellow amateur Laurea Duque, who shot the day’s other 70, and Chihiro Ikeda, who matched par 72.

“Not so good,” said Singson of her game which she actually kept in check with a three-birdie, two-bogey card after 11 holes. “But I missed a lot of putts, I had 3 three putts.”

Like Constantino, Singson, the back-to-back low amateur in the last two legs of the Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.-organized circuit, said emphasis will be on

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Harmie Constantino birdied Nos. 13 and 16 of the Couples course.

consistency in the final 18 holes of the P750,000 championship put up by ICTSI. “I’ll try to play consistently, and not to miss the easiest side of the pins,” added Singson, who headed straight to the practice green to polish her stroke.

LIPA City—Petro Gazz rebounded from its stunning loss to a team of high schoolers the previous day by beating Tuguegarao-Perlas Spikers, 25-11, 2624, 19-25, 25-20, on Thursday to secure the bronze medal in the PNVF Champions League Thursday at the Aquamarine Recreational Center.

Instead of being deflated, the Angels were determined to recover from last Wednesday’s five-set defeat at the hands of California Precision Sports in a loss that spiked them out of the championship race.

“Our mindset is to bounce back today. In our game last Wednesday, I have nothing to say and that’s why we wanted to bounce back,” middle blocker Ria Meneses said.

One of country’s best in her position, Meneses was in attack mode and went 18-of-31 spikes to finish with 19 points for the Angels.

Aware of the Perlas Spikers’ solid net defense, Meneses tinkered with her game to help Petro Gazz finish its campaign with a 3-2 win-loss record in the tournament that has Rebisco, Pitmaster Foundation Inc., Top Speed, 1Pacman Partylist, Philippine Sports Commission and Philippine Olympic Committee as platinum sponsors and F2 Logistics, Asics, PLDT, MVP Sports Foundation and Mikasa as gold sponsors.

BCDA, Philippine Red Cross, Lipa City, Davis Paint and Emerald PVC Pipes, Fittings and Doors are silver sponsors, with PNVF godfather, Taguig Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano, chairman of the Champions League, giving full support.

“I think their spikers are very good.

They know how to place the ball,” said Meneses, a national team mainstay. “I did my best and made my points through attacks.”

Ces Molina backed Meneses with 14 points to go with nine digs, Grethcel Soltones had 11 points and nine receptions and Jessey de Leon had two blocks for a 10-point outing for the Angels.

PetroGazz matched its bronze-medal finish in the Premier Volleyball League Open Conference in Ilocos Norte in August.

Sibugay nails 4th straight win in Super Cup PAGADIAN—Zamboanga Sibugay capped its string of four straight games with a 72-67 victory over Roxas in the Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas VisMin Super Cup Mindanao Challenge, Thursday at the Pagadian City Gymnasium here.

Missed chances were the story for the Vanguards down the stretch.

With their team trailing by just eight with 3:08 to go in the game, Jaymar Gimpayan and Marlon Monte went to the line three times but went 2-of-6 as Anak Mindanao Warrior Lester Reyes converted a putback on the other end, 71-63, with just 1:06 remaining.

Monte and Embons Bonleon connected late for Roxas but it was too little, too late, allowing Zamboanga Sibugay to escape with the win.

“Lagi ko lang silang sinasabihan na control the game. Composed lang dapat lagi, hindi puwedeng mag error nang mag error,” said Warriors’ head coach Arnold Oliveros. “Dapat makaconvert kami at maka-execute.”

Rhaffy Octobre had a monster double-double off the bench in just 16 minutes, dropping 16 points and 14 rebounds, eight on the offensive end.

He alone almost outrebounded the whole Vanguards’ squad on the offensive side, 8-10. The Warriors got 29 offensive boards, resulting in 19 second-chance points.

Jan Jamon added 10 points while eight other players scored at least four points for the balanced attack of Zamboanga Sibugay.

The win brought Zamboanga Sibugay to 2-2 for solo fourth spot while Roxas slipped to 1-2, tied with Iligan for fifth.

Roxas aims for a bounce-back win when it faces Iligan tomorrow at 4 pm. Meanwhile, the Warriors get their much-needed break, returning on Saturday against Iligan as well at 6:30 p.m.

Monte paced the Vanguards anew with 14 points, six rebounds, and four assists but he also tallied five turnovers.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Manila

Standard

TODAY

(MS-NOV. 26, 2021)

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Entertainment

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2021

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ABS-CBN, iQiyi showcase original Pinoy titles S

AYING Goodbye, Hello, Heart, and Lyric and Beat are the first local originals of iQiyi in Southeast Asia. These titles are the products of the global streaming service multititle content deal with ABS-CBN. Saying Goodbye, premiering on Dec. 4, is a young adult series that stars Andrea Brillantes and Seth Fedelin. They take on the roles of Elise and Ricky whose paths fatefully cross at an old record store fighting over the same album of their beloved artist. Soon enough, their first meeting turns into an enduring friendship, all the more strengthened by their love for life and adventure.

“I play the role of Elise, a med student in Saying Goodbye. The series is about Elise and Ricky who have been best friends for seven years and as Elise, she helps out Ricky to achieve his dreams,” Brillante said of her character and the series during a virtual junket held Tuesday.

“We just really feel a lot of pressure since this will be seen by a wider audience. We’re trying to

push ourselves beyond our limits to make the fans happy from the Philippines and internationally,” she added.

Meanwhile, K-drama fans should watch out for Hello, Heart that will debut on Dec. 15, 8:00 p.m. It’s the Filipino’s rendition on cohabitation theme YouTube’s phenomenal star Gigi De Lana alongside Gerald Anderson.

Hello, Heart is a romantic comedy that follows Heart, a beautiful, perky and hardworking woman but is very unlucky in life. Her life starts to turn around upon meeting Saul, an emotionless, business-as-usual guy who hires her to pretend to be his wife to please his grandmother with dementia.

Saul, being doubtful of Heart at first, decides to watch her every move until he finds himself falling

ABS-CBN and iQiyi executives with ‘Lyric and Beat’ leads Gerald Anderson and Gigi de Lana.

Miss Philippines now in Puerto Rico for Miss World pageant

TRACY Maureen Perez promised to do her best when she competes against more than a hundred beauties at the 70th Miss World pageant before her long flight to Puerto Rico.

The 28-year-old Industrial Engineer graduate is competing at almost the same time as her fellow Cebuana Beatrice Luigi Gomez at the rival Miss Universe pageant.

Miss World is coming off a year absence due to the pandemic with the last edition held in 2019 in London where the Philippines’ Michelle Dee made the Top 12 finalists.

“I cannot wait to meet everyone especially my co-candidates and the Filipino community here in Puerto Rico,” Perez said on Instagram upon arriving wearing a pink bodysuit with drape scarf

designed by Ebiro.

“I want to make sure everything’s planned out down to the last detail. I’m so thankful to everyone who’s keeping me sane and strong all throughout the ups and downs,” Perez said.

In her Miss World introduction video, which revealed that she was born a miracle baby surrounded by life’s perplexities, Perez shared that “I have moved from different directions to find my purpose, to understand life’s meaning as defined by experiences, both difficult and easy,” The Cebuana beauty grew up without a father and was raised by her single mother who died when she was seventeen. She was able to finish college at the University of San Carlos with the help of her relatives.

Perez said that the experience made life an absolute blessing and also inspired her to learn from it in order to live life to the fullest.

The finals of Miss World 2021 will be held at the Jose Miguel Agrelot Coliseum in San Juan, Puerto Rico on Dec. 16 where reigning Miss World Toni-Ann Singh of Jamaica will pass on her crown.

Tracy Maureen Perez proudly waves the Philippine flag in Puerto Rico, the venue of this year’s edition of Miss World.

Taiwan’s Golden Horse a holdout for uncensored Chinese cinema WITH no mainstream Chinese films showing for the third year running, Taiwan’s top film festival may have lost some lustre, but directors and critics say it remains a crucial bulwark against Beijing’s censors.

Long dubbed the Chinese-language “Oscars”, the Golden Horse Film Awards will kick off in Taipei on Saturday — again without the legion of Chinese filmmakers and stars who once used to walk the red carpet.

It ran afoul of Beijing when a Taiwanese director called for the island’s independence in an acceptance speech at the 2018 ceremony, triggering an official boycott the following year.

China claims self-ruled Taiwan as part of

its territory to be retaken one day, by force if necessary.

There were no mainland films in the 2019 nomination list after China’s national film board ordered directors and actors to boycott the event.

Several Hong Kong films dropped out while international sponsors cut ties with the awards that year under pressure from Beijing.

While plans to boycott were not spelt out the following two years, commercial mainland cinema and some advertisers have continued to steer clear.

Hong Kong director Jun Li, whose social drama Drifting is a frontrunner at this year’s awards, said it was “obvious” that strained relations between China and Taiwan have affected the awards.

“Anyone would be lying if they tell you they don’t feel the tension,” he told AFP. Li’s film has the most nominations at 12, including best film and best director, and it tackles Hong Kong’s notorious inequality with a story of homeless people taking authorities to court. AFP, Read full story on manilastandard.net Kiwi Chow says the Golden Horse awards have now become ‘a free outlet especially for Hong Kong movies that cannot be distributed in Hong Kong.’

‘Saying Goodbye’ stars Andrea Brillantes and Seth Fedelin with co-stars and newest love team Andi Abaya and Kobie Brown.

for her. A series of unexpected events happen between the two who continue to pretend to be a couple in the presence of Saul’s grandmother while trying to dodge the romantic feelings that have developed between them.

De Lana sings the series’ official theme song, “Bakit Nga Ba Mahal Kita,” originally sung by Roselle Nava.

Also revealed in the press junket is the teaser trailer of Lyric and Beat coming soon in 2022.

This romantic musical series starring Andrea Brillantes, Seth Fedelin, Darren Espanto and AC Bonifacio is set at the backdrop of Philippine National Conservatory of Music where the best and misfit students are pitted against each other on who will finally represent the school for the most-

awaited prestigious National Music Competition.

The series will also star Nyoy Volante, Agot Isidro, Joanna Ampil, Sheena Belarmino, Jeremy Glinoga, and Angela Ken. With the partnership, iQiyi and ABS-CBN fortify their commitments in bringing high-quality, relatable, and inspiring Philippine content with universal themes while championing the Filipino talents and stories onto the global stage. Coupled with ABS-CBN’s unrivaled creative capability on content production and with its seasoned pool of talents, the exclusive partnership enhances iQiyi’s extensive and growing library of Asian content from Japan, South Korea, Greater China, Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia available across 191 territories.

Kapuso directors, creatives share proudest works and moments' behind-the-scenes

applied in my last shows. So with all this exploration, I hope to continue in the upcoming projects and push for quality in all aspects. I hope to ride on the trend that film and tv are no longer different in terms of production value and story.”

Moreover, Direk LA is also pushing for new techniques to adapt in the local and international industry, “Ang daming learnings especially sa industry natin kasi need naming maging updated sa trends, technologies, techniques, etc.

Lalo na ngayon na we are also looking na maipalabas ang shows natin sa ibang streaming platforms.”

Meanwhile, Direk Dominic continues to find enjoyment in the direction process, Seasoned GMA Network drama directors “With every new project I continue to be genuinely thrilled with the process WITH an endless string of award- and films as well.” of its creation, and every time I am still winning and fan-favorite soaps, GMADirek Don, who has been with GMA fascinated with how I can execute a script 7 has solidified its presence among since 2005, moved his way up from being in a different, perhaps fresh new way. For millions of households worldwide. In a spiels director, “Since then I have gone me, there is a pureness in the joy of telling retrospect, behind every great feat the on to direct numerous shows, anthologies, a story.”

Network has is a roster of talented and and series for primetime and afternoon Newly-signed director Jerry Sineneng, passionate individuals that have brought prime. I would say I have been able to hone on the other hand, is looking forward to to life stories that were once just written my craft to meet the demands of the current working on a new horizon, “I am most on paper.

TV landscape.” excited with the prospect that I will be Kapuso Drama directors Mark Reyes, On the other hand, Direk Mark dela working with a group of actors, creative Don Michael Perez, Mark dela Cruz, Cruz is looking forward to engaging a team, staff, and crew, whom I have never Irene Villamor, LA Madridejos, and wider audience reach. worked before. I believe that life is a Dominic Zapata are known for their “With all the new emerging media continuous learning process, and I am inspired works on various series.

“I’ve platforms, I’m looking forward to new excited to interact with a different brand of been directing for more than 25 years,” genres that will tackle a wider range of talents.” shared Direk Mark, who famously directed audience not only in the Philippines but Similarly notable Kapuso Drama the network’s highly-successful fantasy targeting the global market,” he said. directors who have made significant series, Encantadia.

Direk Irene feels privileged to be given contributions to the industry are Jorron “I am very thankful to GMA that they the creative freedom to bring her visions Monroy, Zig Dulay, Monti Parungao, gave me the chance to direct different to life, “I’ve been privileged to have been Ricky Davao, Gina Alajar, Laurice genres from all forms of dramas, to live allowed to bring some aspects of how Guillen, Rico Gutierrez, Neal del shows around the world for GMA Pinoy I do films into TV. There are technical Rosario, and Rechie del Carmen. Read TV and live Sunday afternoon musicals and production principles that have been full story on manilastandard.net

Christmas EP features label’s roster led by Ebe Dancel, Sitti TOP recording acts Ebe Dancel and Sitti, along with their labelmates at rising Widescope Entertainment, are featured in the Christmas EP Pagmamahal Ngayong Pasko. The two hitmakers joined the ensemble in singing the title track.

The six-song compilation of Yuletidethemed songs from artists associated with the said label was dropped in digital stores on Nov. 19.

“I’m very proud of all the songs in this collection,” said Ebe who’s also Widescope’s A&R manager and record producer. “Our artists really worked hard on their tracks and recorded them well despite the limitations and challenges brought about by the pandemic. Each song has a different flavor reminding us about the real reason for the season.”

The title track, written by balladeer Jam Quijano, features Ebe singing the first chorus and Sitti delivering the song’s last line in the vein of Warren Wiebe in the now-classic ‘90s all-star recording “Voices That Care.” She wistfully delivered the heartfelt line, “Ngayong pasko magregalo ka ng pag-ibig.”

She related, “We need to support each other, encourage and let each other flourish if we are to keep our industry alive. We have

to help each other’s music be heard.”

The EP opened with Sitti’s elegantly jazzy “Malapit Na Ang Pasko,” welcoming listeners to a stretch of feel-good, emotional takes on the spirit of love and the Yuletide season. Four tracks from youthfully dynamic artists followed, with the Letrang Norte duo showcasing their rich vocal harmonies and knack for intelligent arrangement in “Ngayong Pasko,” followed by the upbeat pop “Reason For The Season” by the trio of 46 Hope St. The EP’s fourth track offers Jam’s other composition “Pag-ibig Noong Pasko.” It’s a standout track that puts on display his sincere voice, before the quartet of Catharsis comes into the picture with their version of the traditional tune “Deck The Halls.” It’s a Yuletide classic rendered in girl band sound that charmingly prepares listeners to the big closing track.

Other Widescope artists involved in “Pagmamahal Ngayong Pasko” are Tim Allen, Bongclinks, and Noel Mendez.

Widescope music and entertainment director Neil Gregorio noted, “This is an important release for us, sharing in a small way our vision of unity through collective works from our artists, and coming together as one despite differing musical preferences.”

The artwork to Widescope Entertainmentproduced EP “Pagmamahal Ngayong Pasko” features the label’s artists topbilled by singer-songwriter Ebe Dancel and bossa nova queen Sitti.

Ebe and Sitti provide the muscle that seasoned acts necessarily provide in a carefully selected pack of young blood thrusted into the label run by industry experts.

With the record wrapping up the label’s significantly busy, momentous run for the entirety of 2021, Widescope Entertainment President Vic de Vera lightly abridged the meaning of it all: “I believe Christmas is love.

The music we make inadvertently brings out one’s true feelings and affection. It would be the best time of the year where we realize most deeply that when more love is shared, joy overflows in every person’s heart.”

To steam and download: https://orcd.co/ pagmamahal-ngayong-pasko

Life

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

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TRAVEL AND LEISURE

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2021

Duets’ featured artists Nonoy Froilan and Edna Vida

A TOAST TO GOOD HEALTH, PEACE, AND PROSPERITY. (From left) Conrad Manila general manager Linda Pecoraro, SM Investment Corp. chairman Hans Sy, Pasay Congressman Antonino Calixto, Pasay Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano, Carol Sy, Malaysian Ambassador H.E. Norman Muhamad, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation executive vice president Peggy Angeles, and DOT Assistant Secretary Woodrow Maquiling

Conrad Manila’s 16-foot sparkling Christmas tree is made of luminous crystals.

Goings-on at Conrad Manila

M

Y FAVORITE hotel-by-the-sea is sparkling once again with colorful and captivating events that draw in the metro’s leading personalities. After having been “silenced” for several months by this nasty virus, Conrad Manila, which was recently recognized in both the Haute Grandeur and World Luxury Awards, is bubbling anew with red-letter activities that are difficult to miss.

Not too long ago, the hotel opened a unique art tranquility, and human and ethereal forms. exhibit as part of its long-running Art and Wine This unique art exhibit will run until January 9, series of events. Entitled “Duets”, it features two 2022. More information on the artworks, which renowned artists, Edna Vida and Nonoy Froilan, are available for purchase, may be obtained from and explores the interaction and connection be- Angelica Restrivera through angelica.restrivera@ tween painting and photography. conradhotels.com or 0917-868-4074.

Partners in real life, these two artists have And just the other day, Conrad Manila officially been working together welcomed the “Amazthrough the years in ing Christmas” season with the ceremonial multifaceted layers of YOUR WEEKEND CHUCKLE art – as principal danclighting of its iconic MAN TO GORGEOUS DATE (at a fine dining Christmas tree, folers of Ballet Philiprestaurant): Say something that will make my pines, as co-choreoglowed by an exciting arheart pound, Baby. raphers and re-stagers ray of festive activities, GORGEOUS DATE: Your wife is behind you! in many dance producexperiences, and offerings. tions, as actors in several plays of the Cultural General manager Center of the Philippines, and as collaborators in Linda Pecoraro announced that the inspiring charm performance art projects. and wonderful world of the holidays perfectly coIt is very interesting to see the patterns, shapes, incided with the hotel’s fifth year of operations and colors of the dance paintings of Vida com- which, at the height of the pandemic, highlighted bining with the sky photography of Froilan. Tak- the tales of courage and resiliency of her team. ing a close look at each of their masterpieces, we She assured everyone that the hotel continues certainly see the harmony between emotions and to offer its quality service and facilities for worryperceptions, movement and stillness, energy and free moments that the whole family can enjoy and

Labi River: An emerging destination in Nueva Ecija

The author’s granddaughter, Livi, enjoying Labi River’s cold and refreshing water.

By Lito Cinco IT MAY not yet be on the radar of travelers looking for new destinations, but as far as local people in the area are concerned, Labi River in Bongabon, Nueva Ecija has become a favorite weekend place for them.

If from Manila, driving to the place may take four hours at least. But in our case, we were staying over in our daughter’s place in Sta. Rosa, the town before Cabanatuan City, so Labi River was just a little over an hour away passing through the capital of the province along the Nueva Ecija-Baler Road.

We left early morning that Saturday as we wanted to take the better spots away from the Labi Bridge that spans the river, whatever is left of it presently, and we got our wish. As a historical footnote, this was the place where Doña Aurora Quezon, widow of Commonwealth President Manuel Quezon, was ambushed in 1949.

St. Isidore River Resort was the name of the place we found right beside the river. For seasoned travelers, it may not qualify yet as an official resort even if it offers a couple of native lodging houses for those who may want to stay overnight, plus several nipa huts, all overlooking the river and the Sierra Madre mountain range right across the resort.

At this time of the year, the river is just a shadow of itself during the rainy season, but good enough for kids just to splash around small natural pools or feel the water surging through the rocks.

The resort owner remembers the time when the river’s water level rose after continuous rains a few years ago and washed away all the huts located at the riverside.

A reminder though for visitors, bring food, drinks, and portable stoves to the site; there are no food stalls available in the area.

One good thing, the resort is definitely pet friendly, people friendly, too, as outdoor places should be. We brought my daughter’s two French bulldogs and just like us, they enjoyed wading into the cold and refreshing river waters.

Labi River is actually part of the 5,676-hectare Aurora Memorial Natural Park. For the more adventurous travelers, bikers, campers, and just plain nature lovers, the place offers more than just having fun at the riverside. There are several beautiful waterfalls in the park but one should be ready to hike and climb to enjoy them.

It is a bit far from Manila just to visit the riverside, but if you’re in the area, as we were, drop by the place and be one of the thousands of people from nearby areas who troop there regularly, with sumner being the best time to cool off.

Step into the giant Ginger Bru House to grab festive treats, including coconut bumbong loaf, fruit cake, minced pie, and more.

treasure together for years to come.

The official lighting ceremony of the 16-foot sparkling Christmas tree at the hotel’s main lobby was led by Pecoraro together with Peggy Angeles, executive vice president of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, and participated in by Pasay Congressman Antonino Calixto; Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano; Malaysian Ambassador H.E. Norman Muhamad; Department of Tourism Assistant Secretary Woodrow Maquiling; executive committee chairman of SM Investment Corporation Hans Sy; and Carol Sy. The intimate circle of invitees – members of the diplomatic corps, clients, and long-staying guests – were then treated to a musical concert at the main

lobby, featuring tenor Arman Ferrer, Bianca Lopez Aguila of the Nightingales, and harpist Jane Banta.

The tree lighting ceremony also launched the hotel’s festive dining, rooms, and spa offerings: Brasserie on 3 now offers Christmas and Filipino classics delicately prepared by the hotel’s team of culinary artisans. The buffet spread includes a sumptuous carving section, sustainably sourced seafood options, and decadent desserts. Reservations for their easy-on-thepocket Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve dinner buffet are now accepted.

China Blue by Jereme Leung invites patrons to celebrate the festive season with traditional Chinese cuisine and to indulge in an exquisite selection of Majestic Feasts masterfully presented by executive Chinese chef Eng Yew Khor. Bru Coffee Bar transforms into a storybook giant Gingerbread house this Christmas and presents well-curated holiday hampers filled to the brim with handcrafted, homemade goodies: coconut bumbong loaf, red velvet cinnamon roll, chocolate truffles, and chocolate Santa, among other mouthwatering treats.

C Lounge rings in the New Year with both wintry and warm wonders, where its chic and stylish mood transforms into a mesmerizing end-of-the-year experience as guests sip on signature cocktails while moving and grooving to live musical performances.

Of course, anyone may also share the true meaning of the holidays and the season of giving with the hotel’s luxe gift vouchers based on very affordable room rates, which include spa and dining credit vouchers.

More details on Conrad Manila’s Amazing Christmas offers may be obtained through (02) 8833-9999 or conradmanila@conradhotels.com For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@gmail.com

OPM icons honor healthcare workers

By Tet Defensor

PINOY healthcare workers are rock stars!

Even before the pandemic, Filipinos are known to be the best nurses in the world.

Apart from skills and hard work, they spread happiness amid all the difficulties that come with the job. Unfortunately, their beautiful smiles are now hidden under face masks for the past two years, and their inner strength forever challenged by a silent enemy.

In support of our hardworking heroes, a group of artists has put their appreciation in words and music.

Composed by Ryan Cayabyab and interpreted by Gary Valenciano and Lea Salonga, “Heroes” is inspired by our medical front liners who have dedicated their lives to care for the sick.

Recently launched on YouTube, the song is the highlight of The Outstanding Young Men’s (TOYM) Heroes Unmasked project, an initiative to raise funds for the Philippine General Hospital (PGH).

“I wanted something like Live Aid” shared TOYM chairman Donnie Tantoco. “But when I told Mr. C (Cayabyab), he said that it would be very expensive.

He said, ‘I will just produce something from scratch’. Once we had the song, we realized the only ones who can interpret it powerfully, giving it the meaning it deserves, are Gary (Valenciano) and Lea (Salonga)”.

Heroes Unmasked directly supports the

Gary Valenciano, singer and TOYM Awardee

The Outstanding Young Men’s Heroes Unmasked initiative aims to raise funds for the Philippine General Hospital’s Panatag na Kanlungan project.

Panatag na Kanlungan project of PGH, which provides assistance for medical front liners and volunteers.

According PGH director Dr. Gerardo “Gap” Legaspi, front liners do not want to go home after their shift for fear of putting their loved ones in danger. At first, the dormitories in PGH were utilized, but there was not enough accommodations for everyone. Under the Panatag na Kanlungan project, several colleges were transformed into comfortable lodging facilities, complete with shower areas for the hardworking staff.

“It assured our workers of a place to stay after their COVID duty. They had ac comfortable beds, meals, even acca tivities that cater to their we l l n e s s .

Lea Salonga, Without TOYM and TOY M’s Tony Award winner support it will not be p o s s i b l e ,” remarked Leg Dr. Legaspi.

With its reputation for honoring outstanding men and women who have significantly contributed to the country’s welfare, TOYM is leading the initiative to support PGH. The project welcomes both corporate and personal donations.

TOYM is inviting everyone to stream and share the “Heroes” music video. It is easily searchable on YouTube, just key in “Heroes Unmasked” on the search bar.

TOYM also launched the Heroes Unmasked Song Challenge. Open to anyone 15 years old and above, participants can create a video and dedicate it to a front liner-hero of their choice. Log on to www.toymheroescampaign.org for the mechanics.

TOYM awardee Cayabyab must have been so inspired by the project he finished the words and music to “Heroes” in no time. “The process was very fast. Usually when the lyrics are set, I can could hear it in my head. It was finished in one seating. The story and concept were there, so you can set the type of music that will fit,” he said.

With moving lyrics like “in everyone there is a hero, fighting for what he believes is good not for himself, but for you and me”, someone suggested a Filipino version of the song during the media launch. “I will ask Joey Reyes to write Filipino lyrics,” said Cayabyab. “Maybe our Visayan friends, Ilokano friends can write Visayan and Ilokano lyrics.”