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Woman cuts quarantine to party, 15 test positive By Macon Ramos-Araneta

United States to skip quarantine protocols to attend a party where about 15 A HOTEL in Makati City is under people who came in close contact with investigation following reports that it her tested positive for COVID-19. Next page allowed a guest who came from the

VOL. XXXV • NO. 319 • 2 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Cases doubled past 3 days PH still Alert Level 2 until Jan. 15, NCR reproduction at ’critical’ rate By Willie Casas and Vito Barcelo

HE Philippines logged 1,623 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday, bringing the total number of cases to 2,841,260, with an increasing positivity rate during the last few days, the Department of Health (DOH) reported.

The nationwide positivity rate went up again, this time from 4.5 percent to 6.6 percent, based on test results of samples from 30,933 people on Dec. 28. This was the highest positivity rate since Oct. 31 and above the Next page

ELBOW-TO-ELBOW. People flock to Ylaya in Divisoria to do last-minute shopping on Thursday, December 30, 2021 for their New Year's Eve celebration, oblivious to the physical distancing recommended by health experts even as COVID-19 cases in the country increased by 100 percent in the past two days. Norman Cruz

COVID 'tsunami' dampens New Year bash A COVID-19 "tsunami" threatens to overwhelm healthcare systems, the World Health Organization said Wednesday, as record surges fueled by the Omicron variant dampened New Year celebrations around the world once again. Governments are walking a tightrope

By Vito Barcelo, Macon Ramos-Araneta and Maricel V. Cruz

11,772

51,373

133

2,778,115

256

(As of 4 PM, DECEMBER 30)

RECOVERY BUDGET. President Rodrigo Duterte signs the P5-trillion 2022 national budget at the Palace on Thursday, December 30, 2021.

Manila Zoo reopens, Mali gets a buddy By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Rey E. Requejo

VIRIDIAN. A peacock with its bluegreen colors is seen during the soft opening of Manila Zoo two years after it was closed for rehabilitation. Norman Cruz

by AFP's tally of 6.55 million new infections reported globally in the week ending Tuesday, the highest the figure has been since the WHO declared a Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020. "I am highly concerned that Omicron, Next page

Rody signs P5-t natl budget, hails it as bolstering recovery

2,841,260 1,623

between antivirus restrictions and the need to keep societies and economies open, as the highly transmissible variant drove cases to levels never seen before in the United States, Britain, France, and Denmark. The blistering surge was illustrated

FLAMINGOS and an elephant to be named “Posam” -- to accompany mainstay Mali – would be among the star attractions of the New Manila Zoo, which the city government reopened Thursday by allowing the workers who renovated Asia’s first zoo and their families to experience it first as honored guests.

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday signed the proposed P5.024-trillion national budget for 2022 -- the last under his administration -- which was ratified by Congress on December 15. In a ceremony in Malacanang, Duterte said signing the national budget into law is crucial in implementing the government’s response against the COVID-19 pandemic and helping economic recovery efforts. “The passage of the General Appropriations Act of 2022 reflects the healthy

collaboration among all branches of government which is crucial in the attainment of our national development goals especially during these trying times,” he said in a speech during the signing ceremony. Duterte said the national budget shows the government's "strongcommitment to provide a more comfortable and productive life for each Filipino" and also "cements the administration's legacy of real change for future generations." He said that legacy is centered on "resiliency amidst the pandemic, sustaining momentum towards recovery and continuing the legacy of infrastructure development." Next page

Duterte calls frontliners modern-day Jose Rizal MARKING RIZAL'S DEATH ANNIVERSARY.

The Philippine flag is raised by President Rodrigo Duterte at the Rizal Monument in Luneta to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the national hero's martyrdom on Thursday, December 30, 2021. Danny Pata.

Du30: Don’t spend ayuda on vices By Maricel V. Cruz and Darwin G. Amojelar

cash assistance – P5,000 per family of five – on vices. Addressing typhoon survivors in Bais City, Negros Oriental, Duterte asked PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has urged on Wednesday, "Have you received the low income survivors of killer typhoon P5,000 cash assistance? Not yet? Or have Odette to refrain from using government's you spent it all?" Next page

ing tribute to Jose Rizal as the country marked the 125th anniversary of his martyrdom in 21 months of the pandemic that has infected and PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte led killed millions in the country. the country's officialdom in pay payNext page

By Vito Barcelo and Rio N. Araja

News

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Dept. of Migrant Workers law signed In a ceremony at the Rizal Hall in Workers,” and likened OFWs to the counMalacañan Palace, Duterte signed Re- try’s national hero, Jose Rizal, for being public Act 11641, also known as “An the lifeline of the Philippine economy. Act Creating the Department of Migrant “The establishment of the Department

of Migrant Workers happens on the celebration of Rizal Day. May we honor not only the exceptional love for country of Dr. Jose Rizal, but also the patriotism, excellence, courage of our modern-day heroes including our overseas Filipinos,” he said in his speech. The creation and establishment of the Department of Migrant Workers is one of Duterte’s priorities after he certified it as an urgent bill in March. Duterte has repeatedly pushed for the passage of a bill mandating the creation of the Department of Migrant Workers, even mentioning it in his final State-ofthe-Nation Address on July 26 this year.

“I also ask Congress to pass a law creating the Department of Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos. We need this because they are suffering not only yesterday but they are still suffering now with so many inadequacies, in both our government response including the monetary assistance -- to ensure that there is a department that is solely focused on addressing the needs and taking care of the welfare of our countrymen abroad,” he said. The Department of Migrant Workers is expected to benefit an estimated 2.2 million Filipinos abroad, based on the 2019 Survey on Overseas Filipinos released in 2020 by the Philippine Statistics Authority.

spike in fresh cases to the public's holiday-related mobility, as well as their "reduced" compliance with minimum public health standards. The agency had said it is so far unclear whether the Omicron variant is driving the surge in new cases. Authorities have so far detected 4 cases of the more transmissible variant. The government said the whole country will remain under Alert Level 2 until mid-January, amid the rise in new COVID-19 cases. Of its 109 million population, the Philippines has fully vaccinated at least 48.6 million, with days left to hit its year-end target of completing 54 million inoculations. In its latest update, OCTA said the latest reproduction number—or the number of people one case can infect -- in NCR was higher from the previous 0.51. Overall, OCTA said the NCR was at "moderate risk" from Dec. 23 to 29, from "very low risk" from Dec. 16 to 22. OCTA said the DOH reported 572 new COVID cases in NCR, 229 percent higher than the number the previous day. The NCR's seven-day average in new daily cases increased to 215 (as of Dec. 23 to 29) from 79 (from Dec. 16 to 22), they said. The incidence or average daily attack rate (ADAR), or the number of new daily cases per 100,000 population, is still considered low to 1.52 from 0.56. Meanwhile, the seven-day positivity rate increased to 3.86 percent , also considered low, from 0.69 percent the previous week. Hospital utilization rate remained at a very low level, which increased slightly to 19 percent from 18 percent. An increase in the number of hospital beds occupied was also seen at 8 percent compared to the previous week, while the

number of ICUs occupied increased to 12 percent during the same period. The average number of RT-PCR tests conducted was 14,119, which is lower than 17,595 tests during the previous week. Local government units are ready to impose granular lockdowns following the uptick of COVID-19 cases in Metro Manila, an official of the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP) said Thursday. Despite the uptick in cases, the InterAgency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) said all provinces, highly urbanized cities and independent component cities would remain under Alert Level 2 from Jan. 1 to Jan. 15, 2022, acting presidential spokesman Karlo Nograles said Thursday. Local authorities have so far detected four cases of the rapidly-spreading Omicron variant—all among international arrivals. Meanwhile, the IATF released an updated country risk classification effective January 1, 2022 until January 15, 2022. Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia and Spain shall be under the Red List. Under the Green List are Bangladesh, Benin, Bhutan, British Virgin Islands, China (Mainland), Côte d’ Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Falkland Islands (Malvinas), Fiji, The Gambia, Guinea, Hong Kong (Chinese Special Administrative Region), Indonesia, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Liberia, Montserrat, Oman, Pakistan, Paraguay, Rwanda, Saba (Special Municipality of the Kingdom of the Netherlands), Saint Barthelemy, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sint Eustatius, Taiwan, Timor-Leste (East Timor), Togo, Uganda and United Arab Emirates. All other countries, territories or ju-

risdictions not mentioned above shall be under the Yellow List. The IATF also approved the recommendation of the Department of Foreign Affairs, the acceptance and recognition for purposes of arrival quarantine protocols as well as for interzonal/intrazonal movement the national COVID-19 vaccination certificates of Armenia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Kuwait, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Thailand, United States of America and Oman. This is in addition to such other countries whose proofs of vaccination the IATF already approved for recognition in the Philippines, and without prejudice to such other proofs of vaccination approved by the IATF for all inbound travelers. After signing the P5.024 trillion budget for 2022, President Duterte said he was worried that the rising cases could further strain government resources. Duterte said that while the 2022 national budget has allocated funds for COVID-19 response, no one could say how fast the Omicron variant would spread. "We expect it since the pandemic is ongoing, but if there is rapid transmission, we will have the same problem again. It is not a matter of predicting how many will die, but preparing how many people will be affected," he said in a mix of English and Filipino. Hospital utilization rates for COVID-19 cases have not yet changed even after the reported steep increase in infections over the Christmas holidays, the DOH said. Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, in an interview with Balitanghali, said the rise in the daily positivity rate in the National Capital Region (NCR) to over 5 percent had yet to translate to an increase in utilization of hospitals. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

points into a growing liability. Data on Wednesday showing the highest number yet of new Covid infections underlined Biden's impotence against the mutating virus. The good news buried behind the scary numbers is that the Omicron variant driving the new surge may be much less deadly than previous versions. So, while Americans -- and people in many other countries -- are getting infected in droves, the consequences are so far considerably milder. The variant has already started to overwhelm some hospitals in the United States, the hardest-hit nation where the seven-day average of new cases hit 265,427, according to a Johns Hopkins

University tracker. Harvard epidemiologist and immunologist Michael Mina tweeted that the count was likely just the "tip of the iceberg" with the true number likely far higher because of a shortage of tests. But there was some hope as data indicated a decoupling of the number of cases and hospitalizations. "We should not become complacent," top US infectious diseases expert Anthony Fauci said Wednesday, but "all indications point to a lesser severity of Omicron". At a drive-through virus testing site in Miami, Florida, on Wednesday, there were long lines of cars with people waiting to provide samples.

"Half of my family has it, you know this new variant is very, very spreadable, like way more spreadable than the first time around," said resident Victoria Sierralta. "It's like we're back in the first stage of Covid. It's absolutely crazy." Millions around the world will again welcome a new year in the shadow of the pandemic, which is known to have killed more than 5.4 million people so far, with festivities dampened or canceled in many countries. Greece on Wednesday banned music in bars and restaurants to try and limit New Year's Eve parties, with public events already canceled. AFP (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

tanical Garden. It was set on December 30 to coincide with the 125th anniversary of national hero Jose Rizal’s death. "Because if the Manila City government closes the facility to pave the way for repair. And now it is open with due compliance with rules. I hope that our compatriots and businessmen with properties or businesses along the bay will also strictly comply with laws and rules,” the 47-year-old local chief executive stressed. He also disclosed that the new, modern cages will enable the public to take a closer look at the animals. “We have built modern cages, which looks like nature, not the usual box type. The kids can see the tiger face-to-face," said Domagoso, referring to the thick glass dividing visitors from the animals. The new sewage treatment plant inside, Domagoso said, would ensure the zoo does not add any pollutant to the Manila Bay. Domagoso used the DENR’s closure of the zoo to implement much-needed rehabilitation, a first since it was opened way back in 1959. According to parks and recreation bureau director Pio Morabe, the old admission rates were P50 for Manilans and P100 for non-Manilans. He said changing the prices will require a new ordinance from the Manila City Council. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Duterte... Duterte urged Filipinos to honor the country's "modern-day heroes who are at the frontlines" to check the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) as the nation commemorated the death anniversary of Rizal shot by a firing squad of eight Filipinos, watched by another eight Spanish soldiers behind them at 7 a.m. on December 30, 1896, in what is today Luneta fronting Manila Bay. In his message during the annual commemoration of his heroism, Duterte asked Filipinos to continue to honor Rizal “by exemplifying patriotism and idealism in all our endeavors as well as by fostering a greater sense of nationalism among the Filipino youth." Duterte said: “Indeed, true heroes give their lives for love of country and of our people. This heroism has become more manifest when the COVID-19 pandemic swept the whole world,” he said. He added: "People of unmatched boldness and compassion stood and fought against the odds brought by the disease in order to help save lives, even while risking their own." "Today, as we celebrate the life and works of Dr. Jose Rizal, let us also honor our modern-day heroes who are at the frontlines. Let us emulate his wisdom

and courage in our own simple ways as we pursue a better and brighter future for all," the 76-year-old Duterte said. Duterte led a ceremony commemorating the martyrdom of the national hero at the Rizal National Monument in Rizal Park. This year’s commemoration carries the theme “Rizal: Para sa Agham, Katotohanan at Buhay (Rizal: For Science, Truth, and Life). This was Duterte's final opportunity to do so as he will step down from Malacanang after six months. Meanwhile,Vice President and presidential aspirant Leni Robredo – in quarantine after her close-in security tested positive for COVID-19 – urged the Filipino people to live out the “true meaning of being a Filipino.” In her message, she said: “We are called today to live out the true meaning of being a Filipino, as heralded and written by Rizal: Filipinos who are united, who share in communal responsibility, and who always draw strength from one another; Filipinos who always hold on to hope, because they respond with compassion to the needs of their countrymen. “May we all be reminded of Elias’s final words in Noli Me Tangere, to always welcome the dawn without ever forgetting those who suffered in the dark of night.” (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

and playing poker," he said. At the same time, Duterte apologized anew for delays in the government distribution of aid to victims in areas battered by Odette. He said a certain law required the assessment of reports on disaster areas before a state of calamity can be declared.

“Let me start by asking for your forgiveness because the government’s relief operation was delayed. This is because there’s a law that hinders me from mobilizing and using government funds. This provision requires an assessment, a report of the damage inflicted by the typhoon,” he said. Duterte acknowledged that the as-

sessment of reports would be used as a basis to determine the proper measures to implement. But he said the “problem” was the law’s provision also delayed the release of necessary funds until after the assessment was completed. (See full story online at manilastandard. net)

By Vito Barceo and Macon Ramos-Araneta

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte signed into law Thursday a measure that aims to improve coordination among agencies concerned with overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and OFW affairs – immediately lauded by Senators Christopher Go and Joel Villanueva, principal authors of Senate Bill 2234.

Cases... From A1

World Health Organization (WHO) target of under 5 percent. The independent OCTA Research Group said the reproduction number in the National Capital Region (NCR) was spiking to a critical rate of 1.47, putting Metro Manila at moderate risk for COVID-19. The new cases figure is nearly double the daily tally on Wednesday, as authorities continued to monitor the pandemic amid the threat of the Omicron variant. The day's tally was the highest since Nov. 21, when the country confirmed 2,227 cases, data showed. On Wednesday, the Health Department reported 889 infections. The top regions with cases in the recent two weeks were National Capital Region (NCR) (1,063 or 67 percent), Region 4-A or Calabarzon (173 or 11 percent) and Region 3 or Central Luzon (101 or 6 percent). There were 133 new fatalities on Thursday, bringing the COVID-19 death toll to 51,373. The DOH also reported 256 new recoveries, bringing the total recoveries to 2,778,115. There were 11,772 active cases, of which 577 were asymptomatic; 5,737 mild; 3,315 moderate; 1,771 severe; and 372 critical. Nationwide, 20 percent of ICU beds, 23 percent of isolation beds, 11 percent of ward beds, and 11 percent of ventilators, were in use. In Metro Manila, 24 percent of ICU beds, 21 percent of isolation beds, 19 percent of ward beds, and 15 percent of ventilators, were in use. The DOH on Wednesday attributed the

COVID... From A1

being more transmissible, circulating at the same time as Delta, is leading to a tsunami of cases," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. "This is and will continue to put immense pressure on exhausted health workers, and health systems on the brink of collapse." In the US, President Joe Biden promised to "follow the science" when he took over from Donald Trump, but a year later record infections, testing shortfalls and stubborn vaccine resistance have turned one of his presidency’s political strong-

Manila... From A1

Manila Mayor and Aksyon Demokratiko presidential bet Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso said the tall wading birds with slender legs and necks – which are sometimes pink -- would be among the new birds in the public zoo, which got its first renovation in 62 years. Posam, on the other hand, is another play on words by Domagoso, using the street slang for 10 pesos – in the same way that Mali is code for a fiver. Meanwhile, the mayor expressed hopes that the successful rehabilitation of Manila Zoo, cited by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in 2019 as one of Manila Bay’s “major pollutants,” will convince private companies which have not yet complied with the Supreme Court Mandamus ruling to follow suit. “So, I’m happy that the City of Manila through Manila Zoo is a compliant facility to the DENR’s requirement and to the Mandamus issued by the Supreme Court. So at least we can say to the private companies that have not yet complied, you have to follow the law,” Moreno said, in an interview after the flag-raising ceremony at the Manila City Hall. He made the remark at the soft opening of the nearly five-hectare zoo, now known as the Manila Zoological and Bo-

Du30:... From A1

"That’s what usually happens if the husband spends the P5,000 on alcoholic beverages. And the wives, if they have nothing to do, they are like 'Marites' and keep on gossiping

From A1

Rody: I did not gain a centavo from drug war PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte maintained Thursday his administration’s campaign against illegal drugs was launched for the Filipino people, and not for his personal gain, adding he never gained anything from his administration’s crackdown on illegal drugs. “Remember this, okay? Everything that I have ever done as President, I never gained a single cent. I only did that for you, to save your children from the perils of drug addiction. Once they get hooked on that, their brain will begin to shrink,” he said. He pointed out that drug addiction ruined lives and turned people into criminals. “That’s how it would start until you start doing holdups, killing people. That’s why I said that this is for the Filipinos. I have nothing to gain from that,” he added. Duterte reiterated that he was only willing to be tried and prosecuted by a Filipino judge in a Philippine court and not by “white people” at The Haguebased International Criminal Court. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Visitors of Digong need RT-PCR test By Vito Barcelo MALACAÑANG on Thursday reminded visitors who wish to meet President Rodrigo Duterte to present a negative reverse transcription- polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test result before they are allowed inside the Palace. Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, acting presidential spokesman, said visitors and guests must undergo antigen testing inside the Palace as part of their second screening. “This forms part of the Palace health and safety protocol,” he said. RT-PCR tests are still considered the gold standard in detecting the virus that causes COVID-19, according to the Department of Health (DOH). Other diagnostic tests include the saliva test and the antigen test. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Rody... From A1

Among his administration's flagship programs is the "Build, Build, Build" campaign for big-ticket infrastructure projects that the government said is meant to address a lack of investment in public services in past administrations. The significant items in the 2022 spending bill include the P50-billion fund for COVID-19 vaccines and P22.9 billion for the improvement of health facilities. Leaders of the House of Representatives on Thursday expressed their gratitude to President Duterte for the swift signing of the P5.024-trillion GAA of 2022. Speaker Lord Allan Velasco and House Majority Leader Martin Romualdez said with the 2022 GAA in place, the government's recovery efforts will not be hampered in the coming year. Velasco stressed: "Both the 2021 and 2022 national budgets are the most important policy instruments of our government as we begin to navigate a path to recovery from the COVID-19 crisis next year." "We, in Congress, extend our deep appreciation to President Duterte for guiding us to the right path," Romualdez, representative of Leyte's first district and president of the Lakas Christian Muslim Democrats, added. The 2022 GAA will strengthen the country’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Senate Finance committee chairperson Sen. Sonny Angara stressed yesterday. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Woman... From A1

In a Teleradyo interview, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año identified the guest as a certain Gwyneth Chua. He said Chua had dinner in a restaurant and went to a bar after, reportedly in the Poblacion area. “The problem is that the people she was with for dinner and at the bar have already tested positive for COVID-19. About 15 have tested positive already,” the Interior chief said. In a separate interview Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said the woman who skipped quarantine at Berjaya Hotel Makati already admitted to violating health protocols. “She admitted that she cut quarantine,” Romulo-Puyat said. Año said he is hoping Chua is not an Omicron case. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Opinion

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Knowing Rory…

EDITORIAL

breeder was remiss in his duty to provide maximum care and comfort to the dogs he bred, I was more concerned with the well-being of the dog for the time being. However, I reserve my right to raise the matter to the Bureau of Animal Industry. We had to ask the vet whether the dog would survive. She said yes, but that our dog would have to undergo prolonged medication for a month. We were given the option by the breeder to return the dog and have it replaced by a healthier puppy. However, we decided to nurse the puppy back to health. I knew that our children would fight to save the dog’s life, as she had already developed a bond with us. They assigned among themselves the role each would have to play: the eldest would administer all the medicines in the mornings and evenings, the second, my daughter, would monitor the dog’s progress during the days, and the twins would become the evening caregivers on an alternate basis. However, like any group work, frustration, stress, fatigue, and low morale would set in. We noticed this when they started to have petty fights and measured their task vís-a-vís their other siblings. We knew that would be the time to talk to them, this after ten days of attending to the sick dog.

THE year 2021 has been distressing to most due to lockdowns imposed between April and early October, the ongoing ruckus between political parties and contenders for the 2022 national elections, allegations of corruption regarding government purchases of personal protective equipment, and the devastation caused by typhoon Odette. The lack of tête-à-tête with relatives, friends, officemates, and colleagues have drawn people to explore different activities. Some have tried backyard farming, fishing, and outdoor activities, set up online businesses and applied for online jobs, attended webinars, and like us, tried their hand at having a pet. For the longest time, my children have wanted to have a pet dog. I dissuaded them since I believed that taking care of a dog is like having another child. It may also prove to be too costly, not to mention that I was struggling with the fact that there are those who could hardly make both ends meet, while a dog gets its special treatment from us. I cannot understand why some people can own ten or more dogs, have them inside their houses or bedrooms, let them sit with them during family dinners, and spend inordinate amounts of money on medicine, vitamins, toys, and dog food. It took a pandemic and 10 years for my children to convince me to have a pet dog. They kept on telling me how nice and quaint it was to have a pet. They gave me a rundown of the options for large, medium, or small breeds of dogs, and how to take care of them. They also identified the places where we can buy dogs from. They then took me and my wife to see for ourselves how actual puppies look like. We obliged, and we saw how excited they were to have a dog. Still, I was not entirely convinced, but I was now open to the idea of having one. I sincerely thought that that visit would quell their want for it, but they persisted in their campaign. We returned to the dog store, where they whittled down their preferred dog breeds to a cute and cuddly chow chow. However, we told them that having a pet takes a lot of responsibility; it is not a toy one can easily tuck away when they are no longer interested. I also reminded them that there is a law that requires pet owners to provide decent accommodation, feeding, general care, and prevention and treatment of disease to their pet animals (Section 1, Republic Act 10631). I underscored that abandoning and neglecting pets are now punishable under the same law (Republic Act 10631). I told them to research on the temperament, health issues, socialization skills and specific needs of the chow chow. They learned that it is not recommended for first-time dog owners and that they should be ready to put long hours into training this kind of dog, since it has been known to be stubborn and aggressive. I asked them to reconsider their decision but they were determined to take on a chow chow. The first two weeks were a challenge since only two days in, we noticed that she had a bad cough. My eldest son immediately decided to bring the dog to the vet for a check-up. This was when we learned that our dog had distemper. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, distemper is a “contagious and serious disease caused by a virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems of puppies and dogs. It is often fatal, and dogs that survive usually have permanent, irreparable nervous system damage.” While I wanted to know whether the

They say that the chow chow has only one master, but this is not true with our dog Rory. She loves every member of the household, including our kasambahays. True enough, they had gripes; not to mention that the dog had started to play bite, causing us to worry about its aggression. There were even times where some of them would run up the stairs to avoid being bitten. Consequently, we had to ask our children if they wanted to keep the dog or to give it up for adoption to a friend. At this time, there was the need to vote on the fate of the dog. My eldest son and my daughter, without a doubt, wanted to keep the dog. The latter even cried at the idea of losing the dog. As for the twins, one was willing to keep it but demanded similar care and commitment from the rest. The other twin was indifferent, just following the decision of the majority. I understood his reaction because he was the one who attended to the puppy during the wee hours of the morning to check on the dog; whether it was hungry, thirsty, or needed to pee or poop. This would surely take a toll on anyone. Before the family meeting ended, I told them that frustration and fatigue may bear down on them considerably, but keeping the faith may lead you to the light at the end of the tunnel. Sure enough, the dog started getting better after a few days. The dog became healthier, happier, and non-aggressive. The aggressive nature of our chow chow was watered down because of the love, affection and warmth she felt in the household. They say that the chow chow has only one master, but this is not true with our dog Rory. She loves every member of the household, including our kasambahays. Having Rory made me understand why dog owners treat their pets with love and kindness. They give priceless happiness, unconditional love, stress relief, and support to owners who have physical disabilities.

PH may miss the boat

REE trade agreements or FTAs, whether bilateral or multilateral in nature, are forged among participating nations and are aimed at expanding business opportunities. Such trade treaties determine the level of tariffs and duties that nations impose on both exports and imports, with the end in view of reducing or eliminating trade barriers altogether

Nations upon signing an FTA expect increased international trade and investments between or among them to grow. The lower cost of goods based on FTAs and higher trade and investment opportunities will eventually increase economic production, generate more employment and reduce the poverty level among the participating countries. FTAs, in short, will expand

Failure to do so will make the Philippines sort of a pariah in the AsiaPacific region. the economy, increase the government revenue base and improve the incomes of the population. The Department of Trade, sensing that the Philippines may miss the boat, has urged the Senate to ratify the critical Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement that will make the Philippines more competitive in the export market. The deal is set to take effect on January 1, 2022. The importance of the RCEP cannot be overestimated. The RECP is a regional trade treaty that aims to eliminate 90 percent of the tariffs on imports of the participating nations

within 20 years, and establish common rules for e-commerce, trade and intellectual property. Its participants are Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. The 15 member-countries account for about 30 percent of the world’s population and 30 percent of global gross domestic product, making it the largest trading bloc in history. The Senate ratification is crucial as failure to do so will make the Philippines sort of a pariah in the Asia-Pacific region. The regional development and economic boom will pass by the Philippines, while the rest of the region basks in progress. Six Southeast Asian nations, excluding the Philippines, and five outside of this region have already signed the RECP. Our senators seem oblivious to the urgency of the treaty. If that is the case, they do not deserve to be re-elected or elected to a higher office.

Nonsense views of Lihaylihay, 1Sambayan on BBM DQ case LAST week, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) dismissed a petition to declare presidential bet and ex-Senator Bongbong Marcos (BBM) a nuisance candidate. Ironically, the petition against BBM was filed by Danilo Lihaylihay, a marginal candidate for president in the coming polls. In the 2016 national elections, the Comelec declared Lihaylihay a nuisance candidate. Under the Omnibus Election Code, one who seeks elective public office is a nuisance candidate if he intends to put the election process in mockery or disrepute; or he seeks to cause confusion among voters through the similarity of his name and that of another candidate; or he has no genuine intention to run for office. In dismissing Lihaylihay’s nonsense suit, the Comelec declared that his petition is based on sweeping statements and unfounded allegations. The Comelec added that, contrary to what Lihaylihay alleged in his petition, BBM is a bona fide candidate as confirmed by BBM’s election to public office on earlier occasions, his status as a leading presidential bet in the current election surveys, and the fact that he has a political party supporting his current run for the presidency. The Comelec also scored Lihaylihay for his failure to attach to his petition the necessary documents to support his prayer against BBM. In 2018, Lihaylihay made an unsuccessful attempt to ask the Supreme Court to compel the government to pay him an informer’s reward for his purported efforts to recover the alleged ill-gotten wealth of the Marcos family supposedly acquired during the administration of BBM’s father, the late President Ferdinand Marcos. Although the Comelec has not, as of this writing anyway, declared Lihaylihay a nuisance candidate, it appears from

argument. First, the only court ruling that applies to BBM’s disqualification cases currently pending before the Comelec is the decision of the Court of Appeals promulgated in 2001. The Court of Appeals acquitted BBM of the tax evasion charges against him, but found that BBM did not file his income tax returns when he was governor of Ilocos Norte from 1982 to 1985. There is nothing in the decision of the Court of Appeals which declared BBM disqualified from holding public office. That decision of the Court of Appeals became final and executory and is now beyond review by the Supreme Court. In addition, the Comelec has no power to BBM possesses modify a decision of the Court of Appeals. none of those Second, the accessory penalty of disqualification mentioned by Calleja disqualifications. applies only to crimes penalized under the Revised Penal Code. Tax evasion is a crime under the National Internal Revenue Code. It is not covered by the Revised Penal Code. Third, the laws invoked against BBM Election facts are, indeed, stranger than in the disqualification cases against him fiction. Speaking of nonsense, a so-called in the Comelec were enacted after BBM “convenor” of the virtually inexistent and was no longer a provincial governor. The practically inutile anti-government group Constitution prohibits the retroactive called 1Sambayan has his own nonsense to application of those laws against BBM. Fourth, as I pointed out in a previous peddle to the unsuspecting public. According to “convenor” Howard essay, the only grounds to disqualify a Calleja, who spoke to the media in a candidate for president are those stated in clumsy mix of English and Tagalog, BBM the Constitution, and BBM possesses none remains disqualified for elective public of those disqualifications. Being a lawyer, Calleja ought to know all office even if BBM has already paid his tax liabilities, because a conviction for that. His 1Sambayan embodies nonsense tax evasion carries with it the accessory penalty of disqualification from holding and is insignificant. Although 1Sambayan endorsed the presidential run of Vice public office. Calleja claims that BBM’s supposed President Leni Robredo, the latter refuses conviction for tax evasion by a court of to be identified with 1Sambayan. In fact, no law is enough to bar BBM from running one among BBM’s rivals for the presidency wants to be associated with 1Sambayan. for president. When 1Sambayan was sloppily launched There are manifest flaws in Calleja’s in June 2021, retired Supreme Court Justices Antonio Carpio and Conchita CarpioMorales, and ex-Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, were mainstays of the group. Their conspicuous absence from the political scene since last October is proof that the pressure of producing a male heir. 1Sambayan should not be taken seriously. Younger royals are also held to exacting standards. Mako and her husband Kei Komuro, both 30, were plagued by tabloid gossip over allegations that Kei’s family had run into financial difficulties, leading the former princess to develop complex post-traumatic stress disorder. An empress is not an alien concept in Japan, with the imperial family itself said to be descended from the legendary sun goddess Amaterasu. There have been as many as eight (www.manilastandard.net) empresses throughout history, although their rule has often been temporary. The last, Gosakuramachi, was on the throne about 250 years ago. The divine status of the imperial family was renounced after World War II following Japan’s militaristic sweep across Asia in the name of Emperor Hirohito. Since 1947, royal succession has been My Tribute dictated by the Imperial Household Law, and issues surrounding it remain a delicate topic to Nation Builders tightly bound with ideas of national identity. Nowadays, politicians are “scared of changing the system” while they are in office, Kawanishi said. But after Mako’s wedding garnered huge attention, one way the debate could be pushed forward is “if the public becomes more interested in the subject, and pushes UnionBank buys Citibank’s for discussions,” he said. AFP all indications that he is one. Nothing of consequence or significance is known about him, he never held high elective public office, and it is very doubtful if he will even make it to a striking distance at the presidency in the coming election campaign. If he’s lucky, Lihaylihay may just end up in seventh place in the presidential race. In other words, the Comelec dismissed the nuisance petition filed by that nonsensical and nuisance candidate Lihaylihay, which sought to declare BBM a nuisance candidate.

Japan faces royal dilemma as ancient monarchy sinks JAPAN’S imperial family is facing extinction due to a shortage of eligible emperors, but some experts say the ideas floated in a government inquiry for boosting the dwindling number of royals are out of touch. With women barred from the throne under male-only succession rules, the place of Emperor Naruhito, 61, will one day be filled by his nephew Prince Hisahito instead of his only child Princess Aiko. But if 15-year-old Hisahito does not have a son, the royal family, whose history dates back more than 2,600 years, will run out of male heirs to continue the bloodline. Polls show the public broadly supports the idea of a woman taking the role of emperor – one that holds no political power under Japan’s post-World War II constitution but carries huge symbolic importance. However, pressure to stick to long-held tradition from conservative lawmakers and voters, who revere the royals as the perfect example of a patriarchal Japanese family, makes female succession unlikely any time soon. Officials are brainstorming possible solutions to the dilemma, and last week a specially commissioned panel submitted two suggestions to the government. One is to allow royal women to keep their title and public duties when they wed outside the family. Currently, they must leave the family, as former princess Mako

Komuro did in October after marrying her university sweetheart. The second is to allow men from 11 former branches of the royal family abolished in post-war reforms to “rejoin” the direct line through adoption. The panel’s report recommends that male lineage rules are preserved at least until Prince Hisahito becomes emperor. But its ideas are “not at all based on the current family system in Japan or ideas about gender equality.” Makoto Okawa, a history professor at Chuo University in Tokyo, told AFP. “I think the public is wondering what’s wrong with Princess Aiko succeeding the throne,” said Okawa, who researches the imperial system. Although traditionalists say Japan should not sever the “unbroken imperial line,” their logic is flawed, Okawa argued, because Aiko—who turned 20 this year— is both the emperor’s direct descendent and older than her cousin Hisahito. Hideya Kawanishi, associate professor of Japanese history at Nagoya University, warned that the panel’s proposals “will not solve the problem fundamentally.” Some married women might not want to live a restricted royal life, while the adoption of male family members who grew up as regular citizens would be complicated, he said. The issue has been debated for years—after

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Aiko was born, a government panel concluded in 2005 that imperial succession should be decided in order of age and not gender. However, these discussions lost momentum after Hisahito’s birth in 2006, meaning the male bloodline could continue.

Royal women have long walked a difficult path in Japan.

The latest panel report said it was necessary to discuss possible changes to succession rules in the future but, unlike in 2005, did not use the words “female emperor.” This means that for the wives of male royals like Hisahito, “there will be pressure to conceive boys to keep the line going,” Kawanishi said. Royal women have long walked a difficult path in Japan. Naruhito’s wife Masako, a former highflying diplomat, struggled for years with a stress-related illness after joining the household, which some have put down to

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UniTeam visits more areas, continues aid, relief mission

IN BRIEF Govt optimistic to hit 70m jabs before May THE government is optimistic it will inoculate more than 70 million Filipinos against COVID-19 before the May 9, 2022, national elections. Thus said National Task Force Against COVID-19 consultant Francel Taborlupa following the arrival of another shipment of Moderna COVID-19 vaccines at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Wednesday night. Taborlupa and other government ofﬁcials welcomed the latest vaccine shipment consisting of 1,230,800 doses procured by the private sector. The latest arrival brings to 210,023,540 the total number of doses of COVID-19 vaccines that arrived in the country since February. Taborlupa reminded the public to strictly observe minimum public health standards and for the unvaccinated to get the COVID-19 jab as soon as possible due to the growing threat of the Omicron variant. As of December 29, a total of 210,023,540 doses of COVID-19 vaccines have arrived in the country since February. Joel E. Zurbano and Maricel Cruz

PhilHealth to hospitals: ‘Tell us your issues’ THE government’s state insurance Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) on Thursday urged the Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines Inc. (PHAPI) president Dr. Jose Rene de Grano to tell the issues of the group so that PhilHealth can resolve them. “He has to tell us exactly what his issues are,” said Dr. Shirley Domingo, spokesperson of state insurer PhilHealth, hours after the latter said their group will push through with a “PhilHealth holiday” either January or February next year. The PHAPI had earlier said it was encouraging its members to decline PhilHealth deductions for their services on January 1 to 5, 2022, in support of seven Iloilo hospitals that severed ties with the state insurer over P895 million in unpaid claims. The group has since put its planned “PhilHealth Holiday” on hold, citing citizens’ and patient groups’ requests to be “informed well and advised on what to do during the holiday.” Willie Casas

Danao commends cops in successful drug busts METRO Manila police director P/Maj Gen. Vicente Danao Jr. on Thursday commended his men from the Northern Police District for the successful anti-drug operations resulting in the arrest of ﬁve drug dealers and the seizure of shabu worth more than P1.8 million. Danao particularly congratulated the anti-narcotics operatives from the Valenzuela, Navotas, and Caloocan City Police Stations for their latest accomplishments. The authorities conducted the buy-bust operation last Wednesday in Barangay Gen T. De Leon, Valenzuela City where they arrested Gerhel Jumawan, alias “Dhan Dhan,” 36; and Jeorge Javier, alias “Jay Jay,” 35, both residents of Ignacio Compound, Sta Queteria, Caloocan City. Aside from the conﬁscated 185 grams of shabu, police also seized a mobile phone, a sling bag, P1,500 cash, and the boodle money used in the entrapment operation. Joel E. Zurbano

By Rey E. Requejo

LUCKY CHARM FOR 2022. A local business owner shows the Year of the Tiger lucky charm in Binondo, Manila on Dec. 30 2021. Norman Cruz

Comelec vows to solve ‘problems’ in mock polls A N OFFICIAL of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said they will ﬁnd solutions to problems encountered during the mock polls held on Wednesday in some areas of the country.

In a Laging Handa brieﬁng Thursday, Elaiza Sabile-David, director of the Comelec Education and Information Department (EID), said among the concerns that were raised during the activity are the feeding of the ballot into the machine and long queues. “We noticed in areas where there were many participated, the problems we’ve seen involved ballot feeding, queuing. So maybe that should also be addressed because on the day of the election, there is more to it, there are more people that will participate,” she added. David said she is certain that the Comelec will come up with guidelines as far as the health protocols are concerned for next year’s polls.

“That is probably a system that should be improved, especially since we have to maintain your distance, unlike the previous elections which were not included in our protocols during the election. We took note of that problem and the Comelec will discuss and we will be coming up with the protocol or guidelines on how to address that problem,” she added. She also said there were no discrepancies in the transmission result. The mock polls were held in the cities of Pasay and Taguig and the municipality of Pateros, and the provinces of Isabela, Albay, Negros Oriental, Leyte, Maguindanao and Davao del Sur. On Wednesday, Comelec spokesperson

James Jimenez said the activity which was conducted in preparation for the May 2022 polls, was a success. It simulated the election process from voting to the canvassing of votes. The Supreme Court (SC) meanwhile has issued temporary restraining orders (TROs) in favor of two partylist organizations seeking to join next year’s elections. The TROs dated December 29 addressed to the Comelec was issued in favor of Abante Sambayanan (Sambayanan) and the Ayuda sa May Kapansanan. The order also required Comelec to comment on the petitioner within 10 days. The SC also asked the poll body to temporarily refrain from implementing its October 5 orders which rejected their registration as partylist groups and its resolution dated December 1 denying their motions for reconsideration.

Ping: Foreign liaisons for war vs. drugs By Macon Ramos-Araneta

Bill gives toll fee discount for seniors REP. Michael Defensor (Anakalusugan) has filed a bill seeking to further enhance the transportation privileges of the country’s senior citizens by granting them a 20 percent discount on the fees levied by tollway operators. “Senior citizens deserve greater preferential access to road transportation services, including a 20 percent markdown on tollway charges,” Defensor, who is running for Quezon City mayor, said. Tollways, including skyways and expressways, are controlled-access roads for which a fee or toll is assessed for motor vehicle passage. Under Defensor’s House Bill 10630, senior citizens shall be entitled to a 20 percent price cut on toll fees paid through radio frequency identification (RFID) technology or similar devices. In availing of the discount, the motor vehicle using the tollway must be registered in the name of the senior citizen, who shall submit a copy of his or her ID card when applying for RFID installation. “Our measure seeks to give more substance to the mandate of the 1987 Constitution for the State to prioritize the needs and welfare of the elderly,” Defensor said. HB 10630 requires the Department of Transportation’s Toll Regulatory Board to draw up the rules to enforce the discount. At present, senior citizens already enjoy a 20-percent discount and value-added tax exemption on airline and ship passenger tickets, and on the fares of railways and public utility vehicles, including shuttle and ride-hailing services. In addition, they are also exempt from paying airport and seaport passenger terminal fees. Defensor previously filed a separate measure – HB 10558 – seeking to grant persons with disabilities (PWDs) a 20-percent discount on tollway fees.

UNITEAM IN DINAGAT ISLAND. UniTeam Alliance led by former Senator Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr., Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte hand over P1 million financial assistance and 1,500 sacks of rice, 10 water filters and 10 sacks of slippers to Dinagat Island Rep. Alan 1 B Ecleo for the affected residents of Dinagat Island. Ver Noveno

Isko wants disaster-resilient evacuation centers nationwide AKSYON Demokratiko standardbearer and Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso vowed to build more disasterresilient evacuation centers to accommodate displaced individuals in times of calamity if he wins the presidency in next year elections. Moreno stressed the need for longterm planning when it comes to preparing for natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes so that the people affected by such calamities will immediately receive government help. “The typhoon is already part of our lives because of our country’s location in the world. The earthquake will also be a part of our lives because we are sitting along the line, the so-called “Paciﬁc rim of ﬁre.” We also have many volcanoes. So, it’s better that we have a plan to build infrastructures intended for evacuation,” Moreno said, in an interview over radio RMN-DXBC Butuan. Moreno made the statement when asked what he intends to do to mitigate

the effects of natural calamities to the country and its people following the devastation brought by Typhoon Odette in many provinces located in the Visayas and Mindanao two weeks ago. “These disaster-resilient evacuation centers may not look useful during normal times, but when there is a disaster like a typhoon, our compatriots don’t look like wetted chicks. Since their houses have been destroyed, they have nowhere to go. They may go somewhere else, but they looked like stack” Moreno said referring to evacuation centers destroyed by Typhoon Odette. According to the latest reports from the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council, the reported number of deaths has reached 397 with 1,147 injured and 83 missing. The NDRRMC said of the total number of reported deaths, 334 are still undergoing validation while for the injuries and missing 1,073 and 71 cases respectively are still being validated by disaster ofﬁcials. Rey Requejo

STRENGTHENING foreign liaisons could be just what is needed to beef up the government’s war against illegal drugs, Sen. Panﬁlo “Ping” M. Lacson. He said this was the formula that he used in his law enforcement days to coordinate with other countries in preventing the entry of illegal drugs to the Philippines. “We coordinated at the time with liaisons from all countries, as part of our efforts to prevent the entry of illegal drugs),” said Lacson, standardbearer of Partido Reporma in the May 2022 elections. He said that when he headed the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Task Force (PAOCTF), he had a unit that concentrated on foreign liaisons to exchange intelligence information, among others. Lacson noted the PAOCTF’s liaison group would coordinate with anti-drug authorities of allies like the United States, Hong Kong, and Australia. Such an approach could be helpful in the present time, where drugs are brought into the Philippines through technical smuggling, Lacson said. Lacson also reiterated the need to make sure the Bureau of Customs’ processes are modernized, computerized and automated, to bring down if not eliminate the opportunities for human intervention - and corruption. Lacson meanwhile said he could have supported Vice President Leni Robredo under a united opposition ticket had she been more forthright with him and the public about her desire to seek the presidency as well. Lacson made the statement in an interview aired over DZMM Teleradyo on Wednesday to settle once and for all debates over previous uniﬁcation talks that Robredo initiated with him and his running mate Senate President Vicente ‘Tito’ Sotto III.

UNITEAM presidential aspirant Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and his running mate Davao City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte on Thursday continued with their mission of bringing hope and extending assistance to the victims of Typhoon Odette, as they visited Dinagat Islands, Palawan, Liloan, and LapuLapu City just before the year ends. The UniTeam tandem first went to Dinagat Islands where they were welcomed by Lone District Congressman Alan Ecleo together with his officials. The typhoon-hit island received 2,500 sacks of rice, thousands of pairs of slippers, and 10 sets of bucket water filters that can provide clean water to the affected communities. A P1-million financial aid for the constituents of Dinagat Island was also given to Congressman Ecleo and another P1-million for Governor Arlene ‘Kaka’ Bag-ao that was personally received by provincial administrator Dr. Aimee Jimeno. The BBM- Sara tandem next visited Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and were welcomed by Governor Jose Alvarez and seven mayors of the province. Bongbong and Sara were also given a disaster situational report by Gov. Alvarez. Governor Alvarez received P3 million in financial aid from the UniTeam as well as 3,000 sacks of rice and thousands of slippers that will be given to the affected families. The duo then proceeded to visit the municipalities of Liloan and Lapu-Lapu City in Cebu. The municipality of Liloan under Mayor Cristina Frasco received financial assistance of P1 million including 3,000 sacks of rice and more than a thousand pairs of slippers from the BBM-Sara UniTeam. Meanwhile, Lapu-Lapu City received 2,000 sacks of rice, and a set of Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration with a pressure supply unit that they can use for them to have clean drinking water. Lapu-Lapu lone district Congressman Paz Radaza also received P1 million in financial aid for her constituents. With Maricel V. Cruz

Manila

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES Standard

COMMISSION ON APPOINTMENTS TODAY ANNOUNCEMENT

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has submitted to the Commission on Appointments (CA) for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of the following Senior Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), to the rank opposite their names, to wit: 1. THOMAS RYAN A. SEGUIN 2. PETER GEORGE R. GELICAME 3. LAWRENCE A. NALDOZA 4. CAESAR A. LUBATON 5. THORSTEN AJELLO P. BAUTISTA 6. MARLON T. HARDILLO 7. GARRY L. ATIENZA 8. CAESAR ALMER E. CANDELARIA 9. NERIO C. ZABALA 10. AGNES LYNNETTE A. FLORES 11. RYAN C. CELINO 12. FARA KRISHNA A. CANDELARIA 13. JOSE ALLAN P. MENDOZA 14. JONATHAN B. RICO 15. MARITA RHODORA C. PENEQUITO 16. PHAVEENA R. AGUINALDO 17. LEONOR M. BERNABE 18. MAILYN T. PANGANIBAN 19. DIONIDO C. NAPALANG 20. DOMINGO A. CHUA JR. 21. NANETTE C. PROVIDO 22. ROGEL AL-RAHIM L. LINZAG 23. NEREO JULIUS A. RAMIREZ 24. JUAN NEPOMUCENO V. ANGLO JR. 25. RHOMAR C. CANONIZADO 26. ERIC ANTHONY L. CAMACHO 27. HARVENIO OMAR E. VELENA VI 28. GIOVANNI P. ASPIRAS 29. JULIO M. CIMATU 30. AMADOR M. RAGOTERO JR. 31. WARLITO G. CHEE JR. 32. CLEOFE C. PULMANO 33. CHRISTOPHER M. CIUBAL 34. TIM KENNETH R. BANSIG 35. JOEL R. CABAÑERO 36. AUDILON S. MILAN 37. HARLEY B. FLORES 38. ADAN F. ROSE 39. REX T. ARMENA 40. LEO C. BALANLAY 41. JENALYNE B. BALAORO 42. RACHEL P. SERVITO 43. MAY E. ARGAMOSA 44. DINA F. BERGONIA 45. MICHELLE M. IBUNA 46. MARBETH D. AVELINO 47. JANICE N. BATISLA-ONG 48. MARIA CRISTINA V. VILLARIAS 49. ELAINE E. NIVERA 50. AMI T. FADEROGAO

to the rank of COLONEL, PAF to the rank of COLONEL, PAF to the rank of COLONEL, PAF to the rank of COLONEL, PAF to the rank of COLONEL, PAF to the rank of COLONEL, PAF to the rank of COLONEL, PAF (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, MC to the rank of COLONEL, MC to the rank of COLONEL, PROF to the rank of COLONEL, PROF to the rank of COLONEL, PROF to the rank of COLONEL, DS to the rank of COLONEL, MC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, MC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, MC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, MC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, MC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, MC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, MC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, MAC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, MAC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, MAC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, MAC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, MAC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, VC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, DS (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, DS (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, DS (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, DS (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, DS (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, DS (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, JAGS (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, JAGS (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, JAGS (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, JAGS (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, CHS (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, CHS (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, CHS (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, CHS (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, NC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, NC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, NC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, NC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, NC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, NC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, NC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, NC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, NC (Res) to the rank of COLONEL, NC (Res)

The public may submit any information, written report, or sworn/notarized complaints or oppositions to the above ad interim appointments in seven (7) copies to the CA Secretariat, 6th Floor, PNB Financial Center, D. Macapagal Blvd., Pasay City, Metro Manila. For the schedule of the public hearings, the CA Secretariat can be reached through telephone numbers 8834-2713, 8831-1824, 8831-0527, 88329830, 8834-2706 and 8551-1989. 29 December 2021.

HECTOR A. VILLACORTA Secretary

(MS-DEC. 31, 2021)

World

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

EU backs int’l arms embargo on Myanmar after massacre BRUSSELS —The European Union called Thursday for an international arms embargo on Myanmar’s junta and for toughening its own sanctions following last week’s massacre of more than 30 people. The killings took place on Christmas Eve in eastern Kayah state, where prodemocracy rebels have been fighting the military, which took over the government from the democratically elected administration in February. The EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said “the appalling act of violence perpetrated by the military regime” on civilians and humanitarian workers underlined the “urgent need” to hold the junta accountable. “In view of the escalating violence in Myanmar, increased international preventive action is required, including an arms embargo,” Borrell said in a statement. “The EU also stands ready to impose further sanctions against the military re-

gime,” he added. His call for an international arms embargo echoed one Tuesday from the United States. Western nations have long restricted weapons to Myanmar’s military, which even during the pre-coup democratic transition faced allegations of crimes against humanity for a bloody campaign against the Rohingya minority. The UN General Assembly voted in June to prevent arms shipments into Myanmar, but the measure was symbolic as it was not taken up by the more powerful Security Council. China and Russia, which hold veto power on the Security Council -- as well as neighbouring India -- are the major arms providers to Myanmar. Myanmar has been in chaos since a military coup in February, with more than 1,300 people killed in a crackdown by security forces, according to a local monitoring group. AFP

IRANI ROCKET. A handout picture released by Iran’s Defence Ministry on December 30 shows a Simorgh (Phoenix) satellite rocket lifting off during its launch at an undisclosed location in Iran. The Islamic republic announced Thursday it had carried out a new space launch, in a move likely to irk Western powers amid tough talks on reviving a 2015 nuclear deal. AFP

AHEAD OF CALL OVER UKRAINE CRISIS

Biden, Putin emphasize diplomacy

OSCOW—US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin emphasised the need for diplomatic solutions ahead of their latest phone call Thursday aimed at defusing tensions surrounding the Ukraine conflict.

The call comes after Moscow earlier this month presented Western capitals with sweeping security demands, saying NATO must not admit new members and seeking to bar the United States from

opening new bases in ex-Soviet countries. The call, which will begin at 2030 GMT, also comes ahead of talks between representatives of the two rivals in Geneva in January, with Washington saying it

expects to discuss the Ukraine conflict and Moscow insisting its security demands be contended with. Biden, who is at his home in Delaware for the New Year’s holiday, will stress in his call with Putin that Washington is looking for a “diplomatic path” out of the crisis, a senior administration official told reporters. “But we are also prepared to respond if Russia advances with a further invasion of Ukraine,” Biden will tell Putin, the official said, adding that Washington remained “gravely concerned” about the military

RIYADH—Saudi Arabia on Thursday reimposed social distancing measures at the Grand Mosque in the Muslim holy city of Mecca, after recording the highest number of infections in months. Workers have returned floor markings removed on October 17 to guide people to social distance in and around the Grand Mosque -- which is built around the Kaaba, the black cubic structure towards which Muslims around the world pray. Saudi authorities said they will reimpose “social distancing requirements between worshippers and pilgrims” at the Grand Mosque, without specifying whether a capacity has been set. Earlier, the kingdom had said social distancing and masks were again required in both indoor and outdoor venues. The kingdom of approximately 34 million people has so far recorded more than 554,000 coronavirus cases, including 8,874 deaths, the highest number of fatalities among the Gulf Arab countries. On Wednesday, Saudi recorded 744 cases, the highest number since midAugust. The Covid-19 pandemic hugely disrupted Muslim pilgrimages, which are usually key revenue earners for the kingdom, bringing in some $12 billion annually. The six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar—have been recording their highest numbers of new cases in months. Despite having the world’s highest vaccination rate, the UAE has recorded the largest number of infections among Gulf countries at more than 757,000. AFP

lems that we have in abundance between us,” Peskov said, adding that the call was Putin’s initiative. The call will be the second in less than a month between the two leaders, with Biden in early December warning Putin of “severe consequences” if Russian troops invaded Ukraine. Washington has led the charge in raising the alarm over Russian troop movements near its ex-Soviet neighbour Ukraine, where the West says Moscow has massed around 100,000 forces ahead of a possible winter invasion. AFP

Shuttered Hong Kong paper’s editors charged with sedition

KING’S SPEECH. A handout picture provided by the official Saudi Press Agency shows Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz during his annual speech at the shura council, a top advisory body, in the capital Riyadh on December 30. During a televised speech King Salman urged arch-rival Iran to end its “negative behaviour” in the region, after Riyadh accused Tehran of aiding Yemeni rebels in launching deadly attacks on his country. AFP

Saudi boosts virus curbs at Mecca’s Grand Mosque

build-up and wanted to see the Russian forces return “to their regular training areas.” In a holiday message to Biden hours before the call, Putin said he is “convinced” that “we can move forward and establish an effective Russian-American dialogue based on mutual respect and consideration of each other’s national interests”. His spokesman Dmitry Peskov then told reporters that Moscow is “in the mood for a conversation”. “We believe that only through talks is it possible to solve all the immediate prob-

HONG KONG—Two senior editors of Hong Kong media outlet Stand News were charged with “conspiracy to publish seditious” material on Thursday, authorities said, following a raid that drew international condemnation over China’s crackdown on press freedom in the city. China has tightened its control of Hong Kong since massive and sometimes violent pro-democracy protests engulfed the financial hub in 2019, using a sweeping national security law to clamp down on dissent. Police stormed into the Stand News office in the latest crackdown on Wednesday, seizing phones, computers, documents and thousands of dollars. Its acting editor-in-chief Patrick Lam was brought handcuffed to the headquarters during the search. Lam and former editor-in-chief Chung

Indian police report 7 killed in Kashmir fighting SRINAGAR—Six suspected rebels and a soldier were killed during two separate clashes in Indian-administered Kashmir overnight, police said Thursday, rounding off another bloody year in the disputed territory. Indian police said the six killed in two villages belonged to the Pakistan-based Islamist group Jaish-e-Mohammad, claiming two of them were Pakistani nationals. India has long accused Pakistan of facilitating cross-border attacks in the territory, which has been divided between the two since 1947 and which both claim in full. Islamabad denies the charge. Rebel groups have fought Indian forces for over three decades, demanding freedom for Kashmir or its merger with Pakistan, which has controlled part

of the region since after independence. A police statement issued Thursday said one of the four government forces personnel wounded in the clashes died of bullet injuries in a hospital. Officials say that at least 380 militants, nearly 100 civilians, and over 80 security forces personnel have been killed in the region since August 2019. That was when New Delhi revoked the region’s limited autonomy and brought it under direct rule, adding to anger among locals and galvanising support for self-determination. This year the death toll was 264, compared to 321 in 2020, according to the South Asia Terrorism Portal. Police say that with intensified military operations against the rebels, the number of local fighters has dropped

to fewer than 100 for the first time in a decade. Local police chief Vijay Kumar told the Economic Times daily this week that some 70 percent of the youth who joined militant ranks this year “were either killed or arrested”. Most of those arrested are being held under anti-terror legislation called the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). The law allows people to be held for six months—often rolled over—without being charged and bail is virtually impossible. One of those—in custody since November—is Khurram Parvez, programme coordinator for respected rights group the Jammu Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society (JKCCS). AFP

South Africans pay respects to Tutu as body lies in state CAPE TOWN—South Africans streamed into a Cape Town cathedral on Thursday to pay their last respects to Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the globally venerated anti-apartheid icon, who lay in a simple pine coffin. Six Anglican clerics carried the coffin into St George’s Cathedral, where the Nobel Peace laureate once railed against white rule and was formerly archbishop, at 0640 GMT and placed it near the altar. The simple coffin, adorned with a small bouquet of carnations, was in line with wishes for modesty expressed by the much-loved rights advocate before he died. The tireless spiritual and political leader passed away peacefully aged 90 on Boxing Day. His body will be cremated and his ashes buried on New Year’s Day.

His body will lie in state throughout Thursday and Friday to allow as many people as possible to say their final goodbyes. Reverend Gilmore Fry told AFP that the lying-in state had been extended to two days “for fear there might be a stampede”. Ordinary South Africans of all races and ages started streaming into the Anglican church as soon as the doors opened to the public. “We’ve come to pay our respects,” said Joan Coulson, 70, who arrived with her sister early in the morning to be one of the first to enter. She first met Tutu, her “rock star”, aged 15. “I would compare him with Elvis,” referring to the legendary US rock and roll star. A young girl spotting a purple top, paused briefly before the coffin, gesturing the sign of the cross and waived her

braided hair. A woman donning a purple Muslim veil, stood briefly before the coffin. Other mourners stood before the coffin and bowed in a show of respect. Purple has become the preferred colour in honour of Tutu’s purple clerical robes. Before opening up to members of the public, the church conducted a private service for the family, including his widow Leah. The coffin was opened for the family to view the body and they sang Tutu’s favourite hymn, according to Tutu’s successor, Thabo Makgoba. Following a private cremation, Tutu’s ashes will be interred inside the cathedral and where bells have been ringing in his memory for 10 minutes at midday every day since Monday. AFP

Pui-kuen were charged along with Stand News’ parent company for conspiring “together and with other persons, to publish and/or reproduce seditious publications,” according to court documents. Chung and Lam were arrested on Wednesday with five others. Among the violations listed on the charge sheet were the promotion of “hatred or contempt or to excite disaffection” against the government and the incitement of “persons to violence”. The Chinese government’s liaison office in Hong Kong termed the arrests an “act of justice” and accused Stand News of inciting secession. “Bringing the relevant Stand News personnel to justice is a matter of ‘the wicked getting what they deserve’ and has nothing to do with freedom of the press,” a spokesperson said in a statement. AFP

Women-only beach area nixed in Bangladesh COX’S BAZAR—Authorities in Bangladesh’s main tourist resort scrapped a dedicated beach section for women and children after a social media outcry over gender segregation, officials said Thursday. On Wednesday afternoon, Cox’s Bazar officials inaugurated a section of the shoreline on the world’s longest natural sea beach as an exclusive zone for women and children. But hours later, the administration issued a press release saying that it had “withdrawn its decision” after “negative comments”. Abu Sufian, a senior official in Cox’s Bazar, told AFP the section had been created following requests from conservative women in the Muslimmajority country. “They requested a dedicated beach section for themselves, because they felt shy and insecure in a crowded place,” he said. Earlier this month the gang rape of a woman in Cox’s Bazar sparked an outcry over women’s safety in the city. But the move to cordon off a section of the beach caused uproar on social media, with critics saying it was pandering to hardline Islamists who still wield considerable influence in the country. “This is Talebistan,” veteran journalist and commentator Syed Ishtiaque Reza wrote on Facebook, referring to the Taliban in Afghanistan. Another commentator compared it to “Mollahtantra”, which translates as hardline Islamist ideology. AFP

Business

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

Energy costs soar in 2021 on political unrest LONDON—Energy prices soared in 2021—with gas, oil, coal, electricity and carbon all shooting higher in large part owing to a resurgence of geopolitical tensions between producers and consumers. The “steep rise in prices was probably the most dramatic development on the commodities markets in 2021,” noted Commerzbank analyst Barbara Lambrecht. The most spectacular surge was that of Europe’s reference gas price, Dutch TTF, which hit 187.78 euros per megawatt hour in December—10 times higher compared with the start of the year. The spike has been fueled by geopolitical tensions surrounding Russia, which supplies one third of Europe’s gas. Western countries accuse Russia of limiting gas deliveries to put pressure on Europe amid tensions over the Ukraine conflict and to push through the controversial Nord Stream 2 pipeline set to ship Russian gas to Germany. Critics say Nord Stream 2 will increase Europe’s dependence on Russian gas and Ukraine has described it as a “geopolitical weapon.” Russian energy giant Gazprom has strongly rejected Western accusations that Moscow is limiting gas deliveries to Europe, already hit by low stocks as economies reopen from pandemic lockdowns. Reliance on gas increased as calmer weather has reduced the availability of wind power. Crude oil prices rocketed also in 2021, gaining more than 50 percent as demand recovered and oil producing nations led by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies including Russia modestly boosted supplies. It came after OPEC+ drastically slashed output in 2020 as the pandemic began to unfold, and virus-related restrictions caused demand and prices to crash. Although crude prices have shot back up, trading above $75 per barrel heading into the new year, the jump “seems almost moderate by comparison” with gas, noted Lambrecht. US oil benchmark contract, West Texas Intermediate, reached a sevenyear peak at $85 per barrel in October, before easing. AFP

Samsung to acquire Biogen for over $42b

HARD TIMES. A woman wearing a face mask walks past a clothing retail shop offering sales in Berlin on December 29, 2021. Germain retailers owning 'brick and mortar' shops have complained of heavy losses over the usually bustling Christmas period due to restrictions imposed by the federal government before the holiday season in an effort to dampen the spread of the COVID-19 Omicron strain. AFP

Asian stocks nearly flat as Omicron fears weigh A SIAN stocks were mostly flat Thursday in cautious holiday trade following a mixed close on Wall Street, though Chinese artificial intelligence start-up SenseTime was a big winner with a 23-percent jump on its Hong Kong debut.

Fears of the Omicron coronavirus variant are still weighing on markets, with the United States hitting its highest-ever seven-day average of new COVID cases and the World Health Organization warning that a “tsunami” of infections would push health systems to the brink of collapse. But investors have also clung to data showing a reduced risk of hospitalization from Omicron, and the fact that trading volumes are extremely low in the period between Christmas and the

New Year. “Despite global surges in COVID cases, the markets are reflecting the new reality that COVID is here to stay albeit more on our terms than its,” Kevin Philip, managing director at Bel Air Investment Advisors, said in an email. Next year, he added, “we are facing less of a COVID-influenced world, and a return toward normalcy.” Tokyo was marginally down at the close on its last trading day of 2021, but the benchmark Nikkei index rose nearly five percent for the year to its highest annual close since the 1989 boom. Hong Kong and Shanghai both closed slightly higher. SenseTime was among stocks bucking the trend, with its price well up only a week after it was blacklisted by the United States over accusations of genocide in Xinjiang. The sale boosted the wealth of company co-founder Tang Xiao’ou. The MIT alum’s wealth jumped by $500 million to roughly $3.9 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires

Index. Also in Hong Kong, shares in embattled Chinese property giant Evergrande tumbled 10 percent after a report that the group had failed to meet two more offshore payments. But markets were mostly sedate overall. Seoul and Taiwan recorded small dips, while Wellington was slightly up. “Ahead of year-end and New Year holidays, the number of market participants is low and trade will likely remain lethargic,” Mizuho Securities said. “Asia is having a mixed day... and it appears that some pre-New-Years-Eve book squaring is weighing on some markets,” said Jeffrey Halley, a senior market analyst with OANDA. Stock markets wobbled Wednesday as a “Santa Claus rally” showed signs of fatigue, with investors gauging the impact of the Omicron coronavirus variant on the economic recovery. London’s FTSE 100 outshone other markets, rising 0.7 percent to hit a nearly two-year high as UK traders returned from a long holiday. With AFP

Northvolt opens Europe’s first homegrown battery gigafactory

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 221, QUEZON CITY IN THE MATTER OF THE CHANGE OF NAME OF RYAN CARLO HORATIUS TIMOLA AQUINO TO CARLO AQUINO PIÑERO,

By Marc Preel STOCKHOLM, Sweden—Swedish battery group Northvolt said Wednesday it has launched its “gigafactory” in northern Sweden, the first of its kind to be undertaken by a European company on the continent. Intended to compete with US electric car giant Tesla and Asian producers of lithium-ion batteries, the factory in Skelleftea assembled its first battery cell late Tuesday, Northvolt said. “Marking a new chapter in European industrial history, the cell is the first to have been fully designed, developed and assembled at a gigafactory by a homegrown European battery company,” Northvolt said. Once at full capacity, the site is expected to produce enough batteries to power one million electric vehicles annually, with an annual production capacity of 60 gigawatt hours (GWh), according to the firm. “Today is a great milestone for Northvolt which the team has worked very hard to achieve,” Northvolt chief executive Peter Carlsson said in a company statement. “Of course, this first cell is only the beginning. Over the course of the coming years, we look forward to Northvolt Ett expanding its production capacity greatly to enable the European transition to clean energy,” he said. Tesla is due to launch its first factory in Europe shortly and Asian rivals have significant operations in Poland and Hungary—but no European firm had yet operated a significant facility until now. Northvolt, one of Europe’s leading battery hopefuls, has already secured $30 billion (26.5 billion euros) worth of orders from European car giants including Germany’s BMW and Volkswagen, and Sweden’s Volvo, with which it plans a second European factory. The new factory, dubbed “Northvolt Ett” (Northvolt One) in Swedish, already employs 500 people and will likely have as many as 3,000 staff once it reaches full capacity. ‘Greenest’ batteries The first deliveries to commercial customers will be made in the first part of 2022. The Swedish company, which has already raised funding of several billion euros, was founded in 2016 by Carlsson and Italian Paolo Cerruti, both former Tesla employees. Its known shareholders include Volkswagen, Goldman Sachs, BMW, Nordic funds and, since 2020, the founder of Spotify, Swedish billionaire Daniel Ek. In addition to private funding, Northvolt has also benefited from European loans, as the region plays catch-up in its electric vehicle production capacity. Faced with China, which dominates the market, Europe accounted for just three percent of world battery cell production in 2020 but aims to corner 25 percent of the market by the end of the decade, with several factory openings planned. The COVID-19 pandemic had threatened Northvolt’s goal of launching production before the end of the year.

NEW YORK—Shares of Biogen surged Wednesday following a report that South Korean giant Samsung Group is in talks to acquire the US biotech company for more than $40 billion. Biogen, which is known for its Alzheimer’s drug Aduhelm and a neurology-focused medication pipeline, approached Samsung on a potential deal that could be valued at more than $42 billion, according to a report in the Korea Economic Daily. The report, which cited unnamed investment banking sources, noted Biogen’s relatively stable revenue in comparison with “cyclical industries like semiconductors,” which have driven profit at Samsung. Shares of Biogen soared 9.5 percent in Wednesday’s session to $258.31 and climbed further in afterhours trading. A Biogen spokeswoman declined comment. Founded in 1978 by a team that included Nobel Prize winners Walter Gilbert and Phillip Sharp, Biogen is known for medicines to treat multiple sclerosis in addition to Aduhelm. The company, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, had revenues of $13.4 billion last year and finished 2020 with about 9,100 employees. Shares of Biogen have fallen nearly 50 percent from its June peak due in part to doubts about the efficacy of Aduhelm. On December 20, Biogen announced that it was slashing the price of the drug roughly in half. The world’s top chipmaker, Samsung is best known for its electronics division, which reported a 28-percent jump in operating profit in the most recent quarter to 15.8 trillion won ($13.5 billion). Biogen and Samsung Biologics currently have a joint venture to develop, manufacture and market biosimilars. AFP

CARLO AQUINO PIÑERO a.k.a. RYAN CARLO HORATIUS TIMOLA AQUINO Petitioner, -versus-

SP. PROC. CASE NO. R-QZN-21-04311-SP For Change of Name

THE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF QUEZON CITY, PHILIPPINE STATISTICS AUTHORITY, CARLOS D. PIÑERO, GLORIETTA A. PIÑERO AND ALL PERSONS/ENTITIES WHO MAY BE AFFECTED THEREBY, Respondents. x------------------------------------------------------------x

ORDER A verified Petition was filed before this Court on June 3, 2021 by petitioner, CARLO AQUINO PIÑERO, a.k.a. RYAN CARLO HORATIUS TIMOLA AQUINO, praying that after due notice, publication and hearing, an order be issued directing the Philippine Statistics Authority to effect the necessary corrections in his Certificate of Live Birth, from RYAN CARLO HORATIUS TIMOLA AQUINO to CARLO AQUINO PIÑERO. Finding the verified Petition to be sufficient in form and substance, the Court gives due course thereto. WHEREFORE, let a copy of this Order be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks at petitioner’s expense, upon coordination with the Office of the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court, Quezon City.

This undated handout picture released on December 29, 2021 by Swedish battery group Northvolt shows the company’s battery mega-factory under construction in Skelleftea. AFP

Fredrik Hedlund, the head of Northvolt’s new gigafactory, told AFP that the site should achieve production capacity for 300,000 vehicles, or 16 GWh, within the next two years. The gigafactory will only consume renewable energy, according to Northvolt. Its location, some 200 kilometers (124

miles) from the Arctic Circle, was chosen because it is near important sites of renewable production in northern Sweden, including hydropower. “Making battery cells is a very energy hungry industry,” Hedlund said. “We have the objective to having the greenest cell on Earth.” AFP

Hearing on the verified Petition is hereby set on January 17, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. before this Court at Room 608, 6/F, Hall of Justice Annex, City Hall Complex, Quezon City, at which date, time and place all interested persons are required to appear and show cause why the petition should not be granted. Let copies of this Order be posted by the Branch Sheriff thirty (30) days before hearing date at the following places at the expense of the petitioner: 1. At the main entrance of the City Hall Building, Quezon City; 2. On the bulletin board of the Court, Hall of Justice Bldg., Quezon City; and 3. At the Barangay Hall of the barangay where the petitioner resides. Likewise, let a copy of this Order be furnished the Local Civil Registrar of Quezon City, the Office of the Solicitor General, Makati City; the Office of the City Prosecutor, Quezon City; the Civil Registrar General, and the Philippine Statistics Authority. Further, petitioner through counsel is ordered to furnish respondents Carlos D. Piñero and Glorietta A. Piñero, a copy of this Order with the Petition and its annexes thereto at their given address, and to show proof of compliance hereof before the hearing date. SO ORDERED. Quezon City, June 28, 2021. Copy furnished:

(Sgd.) JOCELYN A. SOLIS-REYES Presiding Judge

Carlo Aquino Piñero No., Windsor St., Victorian Heights, Brgy. Sauyo, Q.C. MARTINEZ LAW OFFICE 23 Saint Theresa St., San Jose Village, Alabang, Muntinlupa City Carlos D. Piñero Purok 4 Brgy. San Miguel, Bacong, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental Glorietta A. Piñero No. 4, Windsor St., Victorian Heights, Brgy. Sauyo, Q.C. Office of the Local Civil Registrar, Quezon City Office of the Solicitor General, Makati City Office of the City Prosecutor, Quezon City Civil Registrar General Philippine Statistics Authority (MST-Dec. 17, 24 & 31, 2021)

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

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

Dominguez backs lifting of ban on open-pit mining FINANCE Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said Thursday he supports the decision of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to lift the ban on open-pit mining, saying he is confident of the government’s capability to strictly regulate mining operations to address and minimize the impact posed by the extractive activities on the environment. Dominguez said Republic Act No. 7942, or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, does not prohibit open-pit mining as there are economic, safety and environmental considerations for employing the method. “As co-chair of the Mining Industry Coordinating Council, I support DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu’s decision to lift the ban on open-pit mining. The matter was extensively discussed in the MICC and with advice and guidance from experts, the recommendation was to lift the ban,” he said in a statement. Dominguez said adequate safeguards could be implemented to ensure the safety of the open pit method. He said strict monitoring and enforcement to ensure compliance with environmental standards should be undertaken to prevent any abuse in the implementation of this type of mining activity. “I am confident that the DENR is fully capable of regulating mining operations in the country so that mining activities are conducted safely with due regard to the protection of the environment,” he said. As the official representative of the President to the Climate Change Commission, Dominguez said he was mindful of the impact of mining activities on the environment and the country’s goal to reduce its carbon footprint. “The protection of the environment is non-negotiable. We have to strike a careful balance between preserving and protecting the environment and pursuing our economic development objectives,” Dominguez said. He said that with the lifting of the ban, the mining industry could become a key contributor to the nation’s economic recovery as the DENR projected that open-pit mining would lead to the immediate development of 11 pending projects that are expected to generate about P11 billion in yearly government revenue, increase annual exports by P36 billion and provide employment to 22,880 people living in remote municipalities. Julito G. Rada

VACC asks gov’t to prioritize funds for health, Odette THE Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption said Thursday the government should prioritize funding for disaster and health crisis response over the purchase of Navy ships and hypersonic missiles amid the depletion of state funds. VACC president Arsenio Evangelista said in a statement in times of crises, it would be very difficult to justify the purchases of ships and hypersonic missiles that may never be used against the Chinese Navy. The VACC slammed the alleged misplaced priorities and apathy to the plight of millions of Filipinos hard-hit by a killer typhoon that wreaked havoc last week in the Visayas and Mindanao. He asked the government to put off the procurements of ships and missiles until a more appropriate time comes around. The VACC leader was referring to the procurement of OPV vessels worth P30 billion and the P18.9-billion BrahMos missiles for the Philippine Navy. “In this time of our national health emergency, national security must temporarily take a backseat to economic security. In order to defeat the terrible socioeconomic effects of the COVID pandemic, what we need are vaccines and not ships and missiles. Let us use these billions to raise our affected regions from the devastation of Odette and to quickly purchase the right vaccines that will help us develop the herd immunity that will return our people to peaceful and economic productivity,” he said. Evangelista said President Rodrigo Duterte admitted that “our budget is immensely depleted because of the COVID. Our money was really wiped out”. “Then, all of a sudden, we find out that the Department of Budget and Management released initial funds for P50 billion worth of defense projects that may be reset to 12 months later,” he said. “President Duterte will never prioritize fund releases for these projects, given that he has openly declared that government funds have been immensely depleted.”

Business Bank of Commerce gains license as universal bank T By Julito G. Rada

HE Monetary Board, the policy-making body of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, said Thursday it approved the upgrade of the banking license of Bank of Commerce, an affiliate of San Miguel Corp., from commercial to universal bank, subject to regulatory requirements.

Being one of the country’s most progressive banks, Bank of Commerce will now be able to provide a much broader range of products and services essential to conglomerates and businesses, particularly those expanding in 2022 as the economy recovers strongly from the pandemic. SMC president and chief executive

Ramon Ang, who is also the chairman and president of SMC Equivest Corp., said the strong balance sheet of Bank of Commerce and the opportunities both inside and outside the SMC ecosystem, would pave the way for a new phase of growth for the bank. “The banking sector will be crucial to our country’s economic recovery from the pandemic. BankCom has a strong capital position from the P5.5-billion infusion of SMC Equivest Corp. and the potential proceeds from its IPO,” Ang said. Bank of Commerce president and chief executive Michelangelo Aguilar said the bank’s expanded banking services would allow it to fortify its presence in the domestic market. He said this would deepen relationships with clients and unlock cross-sell opportunities which it intends to convert into additional revenue streams. The bank is also looking to provide clients access to attractive, whole-life and investment-based insurance products, through a strong bancassurance offering.

Bank of Commerce filed a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission in November, and an application with the Philippine Stock Exchange this month, in connection with the proposed initial public offering of its common shares. The common shares have an indicative offer price of up to P12.50 per common share and are intended to be offered in the first quarter next year. BDO Capital & Investment Corp., China Bank Capital Corp., Philippine Commercial Capital Inc., and PNB Capital and Investment Corp. have been engaged as joint issue managers, joint lead underwriters and joint bookrunners for the IPO. Total assets of the bank grew 14 percent to P195 billion as of end-September from P171 billion as of end-2020. Its deposit base spread across 140 branches rose 14 percent to P167 billion as of September from P149 billion as of end-2020. The bank’s net income grew by 26 percent in the first nine months from a year ago.

PSE INDEX CLOSING

Wednesday, December 29, 2021 48.06 PTS. 7,334.56

TOTAL VOLUME TOTAL TRADES TOTAL VALUE (IN PHP)

1,749,982,946 71,990 5,228,812,342.20

ADVANCES DECLINES

114 79

UNCHANGED

F oreign e xchange r ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2021

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

50.2690

Japan

Yen

0.008710

0.4378

Pound

1.343800

67.5515

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.128233

6.4461

Switzerland

Franc

1.090037

54.7951

Canada

Dollar

0.779910

39.2053

Singapore

Dollar

0.738880

37.1428

Australia

Dollar

0.722800

36.3344

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652801

133.3537

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266269

13.3851

Brunei

Dollar

0.736160

37.0060

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000070

0.0035

Thailand

Baht

0.029842

1.5001

UAE

Dirham

0.272287

13.6876

Euro

1.131300

56.8693

Korea

Won

0.000842

0.0423

China

Yuan

0.157011

7.8928

India

Rupee

0.013387

0.6730

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.239320

12.0304

New Zealand

Dollar

0.681100

34.2382

Taiwan

Dollar

0.036193

1.8194 Source: BSP

IN BRIEF

BSP further relaxes foreign currency rules

THE Monetary Board, the policy-making body of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, said Thursday it approved the second phase of amendments to regulations on the foreign currency deposit system. BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno said the amendments aimed at recalibrating the requirements for Foreign Currency Deposit Unit transactions in line with business norms and risk management practices. “The second phase of the reforms will afford banks the opportunity to perform efficient and flexible liquidity cash management of foreign currency denominated funds by easing the stringent conditions on lending to regular banking unit by the E/ FCDU,” Diokno said. The amended regulations expand the coverage of entities that are authorized to engage in FX transactions to include Islamic banks and digital banks and streamline the related licensing requirements for banks applying for the FCDU authority. All banks were previously required to seek the prior approval of the Bangko Sentral before they could engage in expanded/ FCDU transactions or E/FCDU. Julito G. Rada

AirAsia PH announces more flights in 2022

SUPPORT FOR TOLEDO. Global Business Power Corp., through subsidiaries Cebu Energy Development Corp. and Toledo Power Co., turns over P20.6 million to Barangay Daanlungsod, Toledo City, Cebu in support of its pandemic response and initiatives. The amount represents the share of GBP’s host barangay from the electricity sales of its Cebu subsidiaries under Energy Regulations 1-94. Leading the turnover ceremony are GBP Cebu site head Engineer Leah Diaz (third from left) and Barangay Daanlungsod officials led by chairman Rogelio Maybuena (right).

Indonesia, PH register fastest car sales growth in ASEAN By Othel V. Campos THE Philippine and Indonesia led the growth in vehicle sales in the Association of Southeast Asia Nations in the first 11 months, data from the ASEAN Automotive Federation show. Combined vehicle sales in ASEAN rose 15.3 percent in the first 11 months to 2.46 million units from 2.13 million units in the same period in 2020. Indonesia registered the fastest growth of 66.5 percent in the 11-month period, followed by the Philippines which recorded a 22.7-percent increase. Sales in the Philippines climbed to 259,642 from 196,197 units, while those of Indonesia rose to 790,524 from 484,892 units. Singapore and Vietnam recorded

7-percent and 3.5-percent incremental sales, respectively. Singapore sold 54,953 units, up from 51,348 units a year ago. Vietnam managed to sell 257,390 vehicles in 11 months, which increased from 248,769 units in 2020. Thailand, Malaysia and Myanmar had a hard time coping with the health crisis as sales continued their downward trend. Vehicle sales in Thailand fell by 2.9 percent to 668,109 from 688,057 units while Malaysia exhibited similar trend as sales dropped 4 percent to 441,136 from 459,336 units. Myanmar suffered the biggest decline of 45.8 percent to 8,365 from 15,433 units. Vehicle production in the region went up by 25.1 percent to 3.18 million from 2.54 million units, with In-

donesia and the Philippines posting the biggest growth of 61.4 percent and 28.5 percent, respectively. Thailand and Vietnam reported incremental production of 19.3 percent to 1.53 million from 1.28 million units, and 1.6 percent to 142,057 from 139,770 units, respectively. Sales of two-wheeled vehicles in the region grew by 10.2 percent to 3.21 million units in the first 11 months from 2.91 million units in the same months in 2020. The Philippines led sales in the motorcycle and scooter category in the region, with 21.9 percent growth to 1.3 million units from 1.07 million units, followed by Singapore with an increase of 10.6 percent to 10,473 from 9,467 units.

AIRASIA Philippines said Thursday it will increase flight frequency next year as it reopens key hubs to cater to strong demand. The airline said that starting Jan. 1, it would increase flight frequencies to Caticlan and Kalibo, Iloilo, Tacloban, Tagbilaran, Puerto Princesa, Bacolod and Davao. The airline also announced the reopening of its Clark International Airport hub with the three times a week Clark-Caticlan flight which will commence on Jan. 2, 2022. “A lot of our guests are still taking lastminute travel opportunities after being sidelined by the recent typhoon. We expect an uptake in flights as people return to their homes following their holiday trips,” said Steve Dailisan, AirAsia Philippines spokesperson. “For this reason, we are adding flights to some key destinations to address increasing demand,” he said. Darwin G. Amojelar

Meralco crew placed on alert for New Year

POWER retailer Manila Electric Co. said Thursday it placed emergency crew on full alert to provide 24-hour assistance during the celebration welcoming the New Year. Meralco said in a statement the move would ensure that it would be able to respond to any power-related emergency on New Year’s Eve. It said contingency measures are in place in case power facilities get affected by pyrotechnics, firecracker explosions or even weather disturbances. “We would like to advise the public not to play with firecrackers and pyrotechnics near electric lines and transformers, as these may cause power interruptions and even result in accidents,” said Meralco vice president and head of corporate communications Joe Zaldarriaga. He said confetti, party poppers and balloons could also cause electrical problems when these get in contact with electric facilities and it would be best to use them in open spaces and far from Meralco facilities. Alena Mae S. Flores

FNI buys additional 24% stake in port operator By Jenniffer B. Austria GLOBAL Ferronickel Holdings Inc. said Thursday it completed the acquisition of an additional 24 percent in Seasia Nectar Port Services Inc. for P192 million. The purchase, which increased the company’s stake in the Mariveles port operator to 64 percent, is part of FNI’s plan to develop a $50-million steel manufacturing plant in Bataan province. “Our investment in SNPSI paves the way for the successful operations of our steel processing plant located in proximity to the terminal,” FNI said. “With SNPSI, FNI will be able to support the operations of the steel plant and may save on production cost. Easy and steady access to port services in relation to the importation of raw materials is crucial, especially during construction of the steel plant,” it said. The deal will also enable FNI to diversify to other businesses and tap on its growth potential.

SNPSI started commercial operations in 2016 as a joint venture among Seasia Logistics Philippines Inc., Nectar Group Ltd. and Web Technologies Inc. It operates the first purpose-built dry bulk terminal within the Freeport Area of Bataan in Mariveles. The terminal handles shipments of coal, clinker, silica sand and cement raw materials, steel, fertilizer and other dry bulk cargoes. FNI earlier reported plans to build a rebar steel rolling plant in Bataan to take advantage of the increased demand for steel amid an infrastructure boom. The plant will have an annual output of 60,000 tons. Its construction was supposed to start this year, but was delayed after its Hong Kong-based joint venture partner backed out from project amid the pandemic. FNI, the second-largest nickel producer in the country, is now looking to start construction of the mill next year. The company through unit Platinum Group Metals Corp. operates a mine in Surigao del Norte province.

GINEBRA SAFETY SEAL. Ginebra San Miguel Inc. manufacturing plants and distillery receive the Department of Labor and Employment Safety Seal for compliance with the safety and health protocols against COVID-19. The DOLE Safety Seal is displayed at the entrances of Distileria Bago Inc. in Negros Occidental and Cabuyao Plant in Laguna.

Limitless App kings of PBA 3x3 1st season LIMITLESS App wasn’t through making history. And this time, it involved the ultimate one. The Appmasters picked up from where they left off as they turned back a resilient Platinum Karaoke side, 18-16, to crown themselves kings of the maiden PBA 3x3 grand finals Wednesday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Fil-Am Brandon Rosser again stood at the forefront of the team’s championship run, while Jorey Napoles, Reymar Caduyac, and veteran Marvin Hayes provided the grit and spunk the Appmasters needed in topping Platinum during the conference finale backed by 1Pacman Party List. The Appmasters dominated the winner-take-all finals, but had to survive a gallant comeback by Karl Dehesa and Co. before taking home the top purse of P750,000. Rosser finished with a game-high seven points, Hayes and Napoles combined for six points, while Caduyac added five, including a driving layup which all but settled the outcome of the match. The special feat came just a week after Limitless App also made it to the PBA 3x3 history book as the first team to win back-to-back titles when it ruled Legs 5 and 6 of the standalone tournament. “To win three in a row including the grand finals, it’s crazy,” said Rosser afterwards. “We knew that we could do, but when we actually do it and see it happened, it’s unbelievable.” In all, the 3x3 team of the Phoenix Super LPG franchise, won a total of P950,000, counting the combined P200,000 they received for topping the final two legs of the meet. Platinum Karaoke, one of three guest teams in the half-court meet, fell behind, 7-14, only to mount a huge endgame rally that saw it tie the game at 16 on a Dehesa twinner. It was the closest the team could get though, as Limitless App regained its composure just in time to preserve the win. Composed of Dehesa, Chris De Chavez, Yutien Andrada, and JR Alabanza, the Platinum team of coach Anton Altamirano took home the runnerup purse of P250,000. Maiden leg winner TNT didn’t miss out on a podium finish as it defeated Terrafirma, 22-14, to take third place worth P100,000. Almond Vosotros finished in double figures for the Tropang Giga with 12 points to typify his title as the tournament’s scoring champion, which rewarded him with an additional P30,000. On hand during the awarding ceremony were 3x3 Chairman Richard Bachmann, Commissioner Willie Marcial, Tournament Director Joey Guanio,

Sports

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

World’s no. 2 karate star Tsukii vows to surprise everyone in ‘22 By Randy Caluag

ITH three golds and a silver-medal exploit in the year about to pass, Filipina-Japanese karateka Junna Tsukii is not yet satisﬁed as she vowed to do better in 2022. In a social media post, the national team athlete expressed her frustration, although she proudly announced her “PL (Premier League) ranking of 2nd in the world and the 4th in world (federation) ranking.” “This is not a satisfactory result for me. I feel a lot of frustration. But it means that it will make me even stronger next year,” said Tsukii, who competes in the 50-kg women’s Kumite. “Next year, I’ll be stronger that everyone will be surprised,” she added. Tsukii, along with teammate Jamie Lim, provided the Philippines with something to crow about in the recent Asian Championship in Kazakhstan af-

ter they bagged a silver each. “I am not satisfied with the color of my medal, but I am very happy that I was able to continue my challenge for the past year. Thanks for all the love and support,” she said after her performance. Tsukii’s biggest disappointment was her failure to qualify to the karate competition that made its debut in the Olympics in Tokyo last July. Her path to the Olympics was halted by a disputable decision loss in a Paris qualifier. A month earlier, she won the gold medal in her event at the Karate 1-Premier League held in Lisbon, Portugal. She admitted to having “rested” for a

while from the sport. But she was resolved to continue her journey. She came back after a month and topped her division in the Karate 1 Premier League in Cairo, Egypt last September. Tsukii then set up camps in Japan and Serbia to prepare for the November World Championship in Dubai. In the Serbia camp, where some of the world’s best come to train, she shone brightest among the field that included Tokyo Olympics’ gold medalist Ivet Goranova of Bulgaria and bronze medalist Bettina Plank of Austria. That gave her big expectations going into the Dubai Worlds. But in the second round, she fell prey to an Uzbekistan foe and failed to reach the medal round. “I’m sorry I lost to Uzbekistan in the second round. I couldn’t be the champion today,” she apologized. Despite the ‘failures’, Tsukii is ready to bounce back. Junna Tsukii: I feel a lot of frustra“I promise to take advantage of this loss tion. But it means that it will make and become stronger,” she said. me even stronger next year.

Thailand thumps Indonesia for AFF title

Members of the Limitless App team celebrate their historic PBA 3x3 triumph.

PH triathlon puts premium on youth By Peter Atencio

Tom Carrasco

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

THERE will be an increase in young members of the national triathlon and duathlon teams. Triathlon Association of the Philippines president Tom Carrasco said this following the conclusion of the National Duathlon Trials recently at the Clark Freeport Zone. “We should manage and develop our national team long term. The first of changes starts with the entry of seven new members to the

national triathlon and duathlon teams,” said Carrasco. Carrasco revealed that there are now five 20-year-and-under athletes in the team, while two veterans were selected based on their good performances during the NDT. Among the newcomers in the women’s division are Raven Alcoseba, Heart Quiambao and Jena Valdez. Alcoseba is a 20-year-old standout from Cebu, while Quiambao, 18, comes from Bukidnon.

They also have Valdez, 17, from Pangasinan. Among the newbies in the men’s division are Matthew Justin Hermosa, 18, from Cebu; and Lorenzo Joaquin Solda, 17, from Parañaque. Veterans Alexandra Ganzon and Raymond Torio are returning to the team as well. “We aim to step up to the Asian level, aside from aiming to send qualifiers to the Olympics and world championships,” said Carrasco.

SINGAPORE—Chanathip Songkrasin scored twice as Thailand closed in on a sixth AFF Suzuki Cup title with a 4-0 thumping of Indonesia in the first leg of the final on Wednesday. The Thai captain opened the scoring at the National Stadium in Singapore in the second minute and added another just after the interval. Goals by Supachok Sarachat and Bordin Phala then put the five-time champions in firm control ahead of the second leg on Saturday. Indonesia’s disappointment in the competition looks set to continue. They have been beaten in their previous five appearances in the final including losses to the Thais in 2000, 2002 and 2016. Thailand made seven changes to their starting line-up after their semifinal victory over defending champions Vietnam, but they started strongly and went in front after less than 90 seconds. Philip Roller showed great persistence to get past two defenders on the right of the box before squaring for Chanathip to fire home. The Thais almost extended their lead in the 14th minute when Bordin’s effort was cleared off the line and came back to Yusef Elias Dolah who headed over the crossbar. Despite Thailand’s dominance, Indonesia had a chance to get back on level terms just before the interval when Alfeandra Dewangga blazed over with only goalkeeper Siwarak Tedsungnoen to beat. The Thais tightened their grip with their second goal seven minutes after the interval. AFP

Sports

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

Morant lifts Grizzles over Lakers; Suns rout Thunder LOS ANGELES—Ja Morant scored 41 points to power the Memphis Grizzles to a third straight NBA victory on Wednesday, a 10499 come-from-behind win over LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers. Morant, whose last-second basket lifted the Grizzles to a 114-113 win over the Phoenix Suns on Monday, scored a career-high six three-pointers. He spearheaded the Grizzlies’ comeback from a 14-point thirdquarter deficit, delivering 25 points in the second half as Memphis consolidated their fourth-place position in the Western Conference. The Phoenix Suns, meanwhile, tied the Golden State Warriors atop the West with an 115-97 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Lakers were ultimately undone by 18 turnovers in an often sloppy performance that wasted a stellar 37-point effort from James. James, on the eve of his 37th birthday, tied a career-high with eight three-pointers and pulled down 13 rebounds. Along with James’s 14th game this season of 30 or more points Russell Westbrook added a triple-double with 16 points, 10 rebounds and 12 assists. But when the Grizzlies offense warmed up in the second half the Lakers couldn’t respond and lost for the sixth time in seven games just a day after ending a five-game skid. It was 22-year-old Morant’s second big game against the Lakers this season, after he scored 40 points against them in October. “The guy is a true superstar,” said Lakers coach David Fizdale, who is standing in as head coach with Frank Vogel sidelined by Covid. The Lakers had a chance to tie it up in the waning seconds but couldn’t get a shot off. “Ja was spectacular once again versus us,” James said. “And we just lost a game we could have won. “We’ve got to cut down the careless turnovers, where literally you just turn the ball over and there’s no pressure, no reason for it -- those are the ones that get us in trouble.” In Phoenix, Devin Booker scored 38 points for the Suns, who snapped a two-game losing streak and match the Golden State Warriors for best record in the league at 27-7. Booker, 25, became the seventhyoungest NBA player to reach 10,000 career points as the Suns bounced back from losses to the Warriors and Grizzlies. JaVale McGee and Cameron Payne scored 16 points each for the Suns. Ty Jerome scored 24 points to lead the Thunder, who have had five players sidelined by Covid-19 since they fell to the Suns in Phoenix last Thursday. Elsewhere, Zach LaVine scored 25 points for Chicago as the Bulls beat the short-handed Atlanta Hawks for the second time in three days, 131-117. The Bulls pushed their winning streak to five games against a Hawks team that was without 15 players due to Covid health and safety protocols and injuries. AFP

Cavaliers’ Rubio out for season with knee injury

Harmie Constantino highlighted her pro debut with a shock two-shot victory over Coe: We came out of Tokyo (Olympics) as clearly the No. 1 sport. multi-titled Princess SuperalSebastian at Eagle Ridge-Aoki last March.

PH GOLF YEARENDER

Constantino leads march of youth brigade in 2021 T WO victories to mark a maiden Ladies Philippine Golf Tour campaign proved enough to net Harmie Constantino the Order of Merit trophy, but it was her two failed title cracks that should make her tougher and stronger when the pro circuit resumes in 2022.

In a season filled with uncertainties due to pandemic, the organizing Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. still put up eight tournaments that produced six winners with three others ending their chase for the elusive crown and a 14-year-old prodigy closing out the year with a near-impeccable display of shot-making on her way to posting a landslide win that nearly shattered the Tour record. But the challenging season belonged to Constantino, who highlighted her pro debut with a shock two-shot victory over multi-titled Princess Superal at Eagle Ridge-Aoki last March before play was abruptly suspended due to health concerns. “I didn’t even have the OOM in mind when I was playing. I just came out there and played,” said Constantino,

Brand new things in store for Filipino gamers in 2022 THIS new year, PUBG MOBILE Philippines hopes to bring more fun and excitement to the ever-growing numbers of Pinoy gamers through trailblazing initiatives in the mobile gaming world, one groundbreaking release at a time! Pinoy characters in PUBG MOBILE, no longer an imagination Filipino-inspired content will arrive in the PUBG MOBILE battlegrounds in 2022. Represented by a mythical bird, the Filipino fantasy creature slated to be released early this year, is imbued with elegance, magnificence, and mystery. It is undoubtedly a great fit into the diversity of content of the PUBG MOBILE be unveiled very soon. Last year, neighboring countries in world. As for the name of this Filipinoinspired set, gamers can expect this to Southeast Asia released local content

New team, new year, same goals

I GOT to know Daisuke Sato way way back when he first played for Global FC in the old domestic league in the country when the club was among the biggest in 2014. He was shy, unassuming but very eager to learn and show that he can really play football. He was also good to my son, who was five years old back then and used to wear a number 11 Sato jersey shirt whenever there was an Azkals’ game. Fast forward into 2021, the last few days of the year to be specific, the son of a Japanese father and an English teacher from Davao was in the news after moving to Ratchanburi Mitr-Phol in the Thai League 1. While he said he can’t really tell what happened, he corrected the impression that he was on loan to Rachanburi after playing for Suphanburi since July this year. Sato said he transferred to Ratchanburi

who earned P609,750 on two wins to top the OOM derby. “I had few opportunities where I came up short. But it only showed that there’s still a lot more to learn,” she added, referring to her runner-up efforts at Riviera-Couples and Midlands. Superal did redeem herself by edging Chanelle Avaricio by one at Sherwood Hills when the circuit resumed last July then repeated over the latter by winning the Eagle Ridge-Norman leg by three. Another wave of Covid-19 cases forced the Tour to take another break, this time a long three-month hiatus. And while Superal opted to shift her focus on the LPGA of Japan Tour which however got stymied by health issues, Constantino made sure to stay in shape and she underscored this by holding off

amateur Mafy Singson by one when the circuit marked another restart back at Eagle Ridge-Aoki. But no one dominated the next four tournaments as Sunshine Baraquiel, a lady pilot who said she had soon realized her heart was in golf and not in flying, reigned in wicked conditions at Highlands; Avaricio snapped a couple of bridesmaid finishes with a sevenstroke romp at Riviera-Couples; and Daniella Uy made it three-in-row for first-time winners following a five-shot roll to victory at Riviera-Langer. But as Constantino primed herself up for a plausible three-title romp to close out the season at Midlands, and Baraquiel, Avaricio and Uy eyed a follow-up to their breakthrough wins, Rianne Malixi came in to foil their bids – in nearrecord-breaking fashion. Coming into the event in top form following a series of stints abroad, Malixi led from the get-go in blustery conditions, pacing Baraquiel by three despite a 73 after 18 holes then all but wrapping up the championship after pulling away by nine over Uy with a 70 in the second round.

LOS ANGELES—Cleveland Cavaliers guard Ricky Rubio will miss the rest of the NBA season with a torn ligament in his left knee, the team said Wednesday. Spain’s Rubio was hurt in Cleveland’s 108-104 loss to the Pelicans in New Orleans on Tuesday. He was driving toward the basket and slipped as he planted his right foot, his left knee buckling as he fell to the ground with less than three minutes left in the contest. Rubio was carried off the floor by teammates Kevin Love and Isaac Okoro. Rubio, who is under contract through this season, had an MRI exam on Wednesday that revealed the severity of the injury. The Cavaliers said they would update the 31-year-old’s status “as appropriate.” Rubio also tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during his rookie NBA season in Minnesota in 2012. His loss is a blow to the Cavs, who have won 20 games after going just 22-50 last season. AFP

after ending his contract with Suphanburi. He added it was a win-win for him and his former club after he played for the country in AFF Suzuki Cup in Singapore. Sato joined Philippine Azkals teammate Bernd Schipmann in Ratchanburi. Former Azkals Luke Woodland and Javier Patiño played also for the team before. Previously, Sato was with Azkals teammates Pat Deyto and Kiki Reichelt in Suphanburi. Sato says playing before Thai football fans is a very rewarding experience. He says the Thais are very nice, passionate, warm and similar to local Pinoy fans in how they embrace their teams and football players. “Thai people are really nice. Almost like Filipinos, they have nice and kind hearts. They like to have jokes with players, they like to have fun,” he said. He said it was quite different when he became the first Filipino-born player to play in the Romanian Liga 1 in September 2016. Sato also suited for AC Horsens in the Danish Super League and had another spell in the Romanian premier league with Sepsi OSK. He said he was subjected to harassment and almost all foul words in the local language by racist fans while playing in Europe. “I was called a monkey, among other things,

every time I played there,” he revealed. The racism and the height disadvantage against opposing players only made him stronger, and when Muanthong United called him to play in Thailand, he left Sepsi OSK after two seasons. Sato says he never regretted playing for the Azkals in the Suzuki Cup despite the tournament being played under-non FIFA days. “I have no regrets with the decision I made. I started with the national team, that’s how I grew up. Playing for the Azkals changed my career and until now. I can’t miss the tournament because it is a big tournament and it is very important to me. I can’t say no,” he said. “We gave everything, despite what we have – the preparations, the pandemic. I’m so proud of the players. Even if we didn’t make it to the semifinals this time. We know what we’ve been through. The team gave everything. We gave our all in the pitch. I was so grateful to represent the country again because of my Dad, I really wanted the team to make it to the semifinals for him,” he said. So how is Sato nowadays after playing for the Azkals and moving to another team while mourning the loss of his father quietly? He said he is fine. “I really like it here.” He added that despite most teams in the league are still reeling from the impact of the pandemic, he is very stoked

such as the Gundala of Indonesia and the Davika of Thailand. “The main goal for PUBG MOBILE Philippines is to introduce Filipino elements in-game and to have a better familiarization of what the Philippines has to offer for a broader audience, mainly the gaming community of PUBG MOBILE throughout the Southeast Asian region. As for the local community, this will also grab Filipinos’ attention when they see familiar elements they’ve come to grow up with.” said PUBG MOBILE Philippines Community Manager Gef Ferrer. Telco and other brands partnership PUBG MOBILE continues to expand its local collaboration and also strengthen its current ties with local partners.

to join Rachanburi. “We have better players. I’m very excited to start because it is easier for me to work with this team because we really have good players here. We have good chances of winning games,” he said. He was also able to spend some time with his wife, Tara, and their daughter, Neila, before playing in Singapore. The two are back in The Netherlands but will return to Thailand in the first week of the new year if the situation allows it. Sato admits the changes in both his professional and personal life have given him a different perspective in life. “Everything I do is for my family. From morning to night, I think of them. Of course I work hard for football but this is for my family. This is a way for me to take care of them, give them a better life. I am responsible for them. People used to tell me this before but it is really different when you have it,” he explained. But if there are a few things that won’t change with Daisuke Sato, these will be his desire to play for the national team and his fervent wish to play in another league before calling it a career. “The Philippines gave everything to me. Whenever I have the opportunity, I want to be there and try to give something back to the country or to the Azkals,” Sato said. “I want have one more challenge before I end my career. retire, I would like to play in

Kevin Acuña, Business Development Manager of PUBG MOBILE Philippines said: “The aim for PUBG MOBILE Philippines in building more meaningful partnerships and collaborations are to reach a wider audience, and to continue the growth of the game’s player base. In partnering with the biggest telcos and regional partners, PUBG MOBILE Philippines will grow at a faster pace.” In addition, PUBG MOBILE is set to partner with phone brands, merchandises, and snack brands across the nation, a proof that the globalized company remains committed to creating fruitful partnerships that are beneficial to both the game and its brand partners in the country.

Japan or South Korea. Right now I’m focusing my thoughts working hard and playing for my new team, but I would like to really play there eventually. I don’t want to say that, when I turn 50 or 60 years-old, I should have done that. I really want to do that, even just once, to challenge myself to play in the best leagues because I think I have the desire and ability to do so,” he added. Sato is hopeful that he can go back to the Philippines to join the Azkals’ camp next year as the team prepares for the third round of the 2023 Asian Cup Qualifiers in June. “I will never say no to the country,” he said. Sato represents the next evolution of the Philippine Azkals and along with the new players, and even probably, the next stage of Philippine football. Playing for flag and county will never be easy. It is always a matter of choice, of playing under strife and all the million reasons that would make any lesser mortal stay home and play the Monday morning quarterback instead, along with some sports officials I know, when things get rough and they need to sweat it out on the rare occasions they go outside of their airconditioned rooms or cars. I’m just glad that there are many Filipino athletes willing to answer the call and Daisuke-san is one of them. Happy New Year everyone! Stay safe. Stay happy, peeps.

Entertainment

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

Ringing in the New Year with a bang

Real-life superheroes take center stage in GMA News and Public Affairs’ year-end special headlined by showbiz royalties Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera.

and directed by GMA’s renowned director Dominic Zapata. Catch Year of the Superhero tomorrow at 7:15 p.m., on GMA.

S EVERYONE welcomes the new year, GMA News and Public Affairs’ year-end special Year of the Superhero takes a look back on some of the heroic moments of 2021 — a year that saw people from all walks of life inspiring others through their heroic deeds and triumphs. Hosting this special are Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera who both have their equal share of playing iconic heroes on GMA’s primetime shows. In this year-end special, the power couple collaborated with some of the industry’s finest — international artist Leeroy New, award-winning children’s book author Augie Rivera, and acclaimed director Rico Gutierrez — in an hourlong special honoring modern-day heroes. Marian walks viewers through the giant 3D art installation by New. The contemporary Filipino artist’s inspiration was drawn from the stories of ordinary citizens who lifted our spirits in the midst of adversities in the year 2021. New’s work depicts the inspiring

GMA Network lights up the world in celebrating the new year with Kapuso Countdown to 2022: The GMA New Year Special tonight. stories of the Olympians who raised our To kick start the spectacle, Alden flag in Tokyo–led by first-ever Filipino Richards leads the constellation Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz; of Kapuso artists who will dazzle the nurses who saved 35 infants from a viewers with performances as burning hospital, and the youth behind the everyone anticipates the new year. community pantry initiative which made Set to mark her first Kapuso New Year headlines this year. Countdown celebration is Bea Alonzo Year of the Superheroes also looks back who will have a special performance of at the rescue of the survivors of the C-130 the hit songs “Mr. Perfectly Fine, “10,000 Hercules aircraft crash in Sulu, the news Hours,” and “Love Again” with Alden as of a police officer who assisted a woman a teaser to their much-awaited team up giving birth on the street in Capiz, as well next year. as the viral story of the girl who rescued The festivities open with a performance her pet dog from being hit by an oncoming of “Liwanag sa Dilim” by Alden, Bea, train. Christian Bautista, Garrett Bolden, Making the tribute extra special is a Rayver Cruz, Rochelle Pangilinan, comic book storytelling of these heroes’ Mark Herras, Aicelle Santos, Hannah journeys which will be led by Dingdong Precillas, Jessica Villarubin, Lexi

A new age dawns at Resorts World Manila GRAND Fiesta Manila is making a lot of noise to count down to the new year. The country’s premier entertainment and leisure destination is bringing together two of the country’s leading rock acts, Aegis and The Dawn, for a back-to-back concert to close out the year with a bang for a live audience at the Newport Performing Arts Theater (NPAT) tonight at 8:00. The Grand Countdown concert returns to the award-winning NPAT stage for the second year, only this time, guests get to revel in the year-end festivities in the theater. The major concert is hosted by multitalented artist Nicole Laurel Asensio, and in true RWM fashion, amazing thrills and big surprises await lucky spectators. Ring in the new year by belting out along to the iconic Aegis classics like

New Year countdown

“Halik,” “Luha,” and holiday staple, “Christmas Bonus,” among other hits. Following the female power band’s set is the ultimate Pinoy rock band, The Dawn. Rock out to Pinoy rock anthems like “Salamat,” “Enveloped Ideas,” “Love Will Set Us Free,” and more all the way to midnight. Tickets to the Grand Countdown to 2022 are now available from Bronze to SSVIP for P2,659 to P13,615. The Grand Countdown to 2022 is an added shine to RWM’s hundred stars in live events and performances for this year’s Grand Fiesta Manila celebrations. For inquiries contact Girah Manaligod (0917 872 8309), Neil Crisostomo (0917 658 9378), or King Feria (0917 823 9602). Stream the show at home live on pay per view ktx. ph tonight at 8:00 for P888 per access.

The Dawn (left) and Aegis headline the Grand Countdown to 2022 of Resorts World Manila.

Gonzales, Mavy Legaspi, Kyline Alcantara, and Julie Anne San Jose. Rochelle, Mark, Rayver, and Kyline will rock the floor as they move to the beat of “Laser Lights.” Watch out as GMA Artist Center unveils an exciting surprise that will add “Sparkle” to Kapuso audiences’ TV viewing this 2022. To amp up the fun, stars Gabbi Garcia, Ruru Madrid, Miguel Tanfelix, Ysabel Ortega, Khalil Ramos, Bianca Umali, Sanya Lopez, and Derrick Monasterio will take the stage and perform the trending songs “Me,” “Physical,” and “Hold On.” Singers Hannah, Garrett, and Jennie Gabriel bring viewers some of GMA Dramas’ soundtracks that shine bright this year – “Hawak Kita,” “Pagmamahal Mo Lang,” and “Our Love.” Spreading hope for a brighter tomorrow are Rocco Nacino, Rayver, Derrick, Garrett, and Jeremiah Tiangco as they serenade viewers. Meanwhile, The Clash Grand Champion Mariane Osabel and runnerup Vilmark Viray will belt out original compositions from the show’s songwriting competition titled “Umuwi Ka Na” and “Bakit Mahal Pa Rin Kita.” The fun doesn’t stop with more flashing performances from Julie, Jeremiah, Jessica, Mariane, Ruru,

Bianca, Miguel, Gabbi of “The Light is Coming,” “Blinding Lights,” and “All The Lights.” In tune with the spirit of giving, GMA Kapuso Foundation continues its commitment to deliver much-needed public service during these trying times - from COVID-related assistance and currently to those affected in Visayas and Mindanao by Typhoon Odette. During the New Year Countdown, details on where to donate will be flashed on the screen for Kapuso viewers who wish to extend help to those recovering from the calamity. A heartwarming performance of “Isang Kinabukasan” will also be carried out by Christian, Aicelle, Jeremiah, Jessica, and Mariane. As an early gift to avid viewers, sneak peeks of upcoming Kapuso shows will also be unveiled along with never-beforeseen behind-the-scenes footage from one of the network’s highly-anticipated and groundbreaking projects – Voltes V: Legacy. Meanwhile, all set to light up the sky is the grand fireworks show from the SM Mall of Asia. Kapuso Countdown to 2022: The GMA New Year Special airs tonight at 10:30 on GMA-7 and GMA Pinoy TV with a live stream on GMANetwork.com.

GMA Network welcomes 2022 with a star-studded New Year Special featuring its biggest stars led by Alden Richards and Bea Alonzo.

Postpartum depression survivor vies for Mrs. World title Meranie Gadiana Rahman was crowned in France and now vying for the Mrs. World 2022 title in Las Vegas.

PAGEANT CONCEPT ETON CONCEPCION depression awareness as the national pageant’s official advocacy. Rahman opened a non-profit organization called “You Are Loved Foundation for Postpartum Depression Awareness” after completing an online certification course on postpartum depression. “I’m a survivor of postpartum depression and I know how serious and lethal this kind of depression can be which has taken the lives of millions of people around the world. Coming out of postpartum depression has changed my life and has empowered me to save lives that I have been able to touch and educate. I spoke in TV, radio, online news media and gave lectures on postpartum depression in public before the pandemic,’ Rahman said. Rahman was in Cagayan de Oro when typhoon Odette struck. She said that it was heartbreaking to see the destruction her province suffered which included her multi-million farm trees. She helped in

distributing relief goods to the victims of the super typhoon. “I am honored and excited to represent my beautiful country as Mrs. Philippines World at Mrs. World,” said Rahman who loves all Filipina beauty queens, especially, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach. You can still help Meranie win an automatic Top 15 slot via online voting for the “Fabulous Face” until Jan. 10, 2022. Meranie ranks number 7 as of this writing. ***

Reina ng Tahanan 2nd

REIGNING Mrs. Philippines World placer crowned Mrs. Meranie Gadiana Rahman is finally Philippines International competing in Mrs. World 2022 pageant 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada, two years after Coming short of winning the “Reina winning the title in Paris, France in ng Tahanan” contest in ABS-CBN’s It’s October 2019. Showtime, Leona Luisa Andersen came Rahman will be vying for the crown back a big winner this time when she with more than fifty amazing women from snagged the Mrs. Philippines International all over the world in the finals set on Jan. 2021 crown during coronation finals held 15 in Las Vegas resort & Casino. at Okada Manila recently. A print model, mother of a 4-year-old Andersen, a 27-year-old single mother from boy, Rahman has been based in Hawaii and Olongapo City, bested 14 other candidates to arrived in the country in November last year. earn the right to represent the country in the A graduate of Bachelor of Science in Hotel Mrs. International 2022 pageant to be held Management, she was awarded as Most in Singapore next year. Read full story on Influential Woman of the Year by Gawad manilastandard.net America in North Hollywood. Growing up as a farmer’s daughter from Cagayan de Oro City, Rahman experienced bullying in school. She was married when she suffered from postpartum depression but was able to overcome it by joining a local pageant, as suggested by her husband, Dr. Inam UR Rahman, a medical doctor and a pageant coach. Dr. Rahman, who is also very passionate about the depression, is now the new national director of Mrs. World Philippines and has named postpartum Mrs. Philippines International 2021 Leona Luisa Andersen (center) and her court.

Maria Shriver now officially Arnold Schwarzenegger’s ex-wife

Then governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and journalist Maria Shriver arrive at the White House in February 2009.

A COURT in Los Angeles has made Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver’s divorce official 10 years after they separated following the actor-turned-politician’s infidelity, US media reported Wednesday. Celebrity news site TMZ said the pair’s divorce proceedings took a particularly long time because of the number of financial assets to negotiate.

Shriver, a journalist and the niece of former US president John F. Kennedy, first filed for divorce in July 2011. Weeks later, the Terminator star admitted to having an affair with the family nanny, Mildred Baena, with whom he had a son in 1997. “After leaving the governor´s office I told my wife about this event, which occurred over a

decade ago,” Schwarzenegger, who was governor of California from 2003 to 2011, said in a statement to the Los Angeles Times when he and Shriver separated. Shriver cited “irreconcilable differences” in the divorce filing. The couple, who met in 1977 and were married in 1986, have four children together. AFP

Life

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

Filipino compassion and optimism shine this holiday season

Glaiza de Castro talks about her skin issues and how she’s moved past them.

By Nickie Wang

ILM and television actress Glaiza de Castro has publicly spoken about her “flaws” – her blemishes, her freckles, her scars, and her struggle to get rid of them.

GLAIZA DE CASTRO embraces her flaws and flaunts her imperfections

Now she flaunts them with confidence saying that imperfections are “actually not flaws.” “It’s part of human life. We all look different,” she told Manila Standard Life in an interview. When she was starting out in show business, she admitted that she wasn’t too confident about the way she looked, including the color of her skin. “I had so many encounters in the past that I felt so conscious because of my skin color. Up until now, actually, just recently on social media, I encountered people saying bad things about the way I look. I posted a photo on Instagram and there were netizens who criticized even the smallest details of my appearance,” she said. “Sometimes it really gets to me but I always get back to my core and think that we are humans and we can’t be too perfect or even if we look really good, people will always look for flaws,” she carried on. The 33-year-old actress began to embrace her skin color when she started traveling overseas. Whenever she visits a foreign city, she’s fascinated by the way people compliment her skin color. “I feel like I’m still a celebrity whenever I go abroad, people approach me because they really like the color of my skin. They say, they would have to spend a lot of time in tanning salons for their skin to look at least close to my skin tone. When I went to London, I saw how people stayed under the sun just to get some color,” she said. Though Glaiza has already learned to embrace her skin imperfections, it didn’t mean she no longer makes any effort to take care of it. She admitted that she was too lazy cleansing her skin and even sleeping with makeup on, then she realized that she needed to break the bad habit. “You don’t have to cover your imperfections all the time. Just have a sustainable skincare routine and use products that really work for you. Expensive and well-marketed products may work for others but it doesn’t mean they will work for you, too. So

The actress with Endless Beauty by HBS owner Jaime Prado

don’t be afraid to find the right products for you,” she said. “I used to sleep with makeup on but I realized I’m not getting any younger and I really have to focus on taking care of my skin. But I do it because I want to be kind to myself. And that’s what I really wanted to share with people – to do it for themselves and not for others. Please yourself and not the people who will always have a say no matter how you look,” she added. Glaiza is the face of House of Beauty by owner Jaime Prado, the successful female entrepreneur behind Endless Beauty brand that has helped numerous females (and their families), who are dealers and resellers, survive the pandemic

SAN Miguel Brewery Inc. (SMB), the country’s top beer of its annual beer festival, SMB keeps pouring wins up until the producer, continues to serve up wins with its “Instant Gcash new year by continuing to serve surprises under the crown of its Panalo Promo ng San Miguel Oktoberfest.” Outlasting the fervor most loved bottled brews. As SMB extends its instant GCash prizes promo until early 2022, drinkers can keep winning by simply enjoying their favorite bottles of San Miguel Beer and checking under its crowns. The promo offers added joy to the Holidays as well as an opulent start to kick off the New Year. With over 80,000 winners nationwide, beer lovers get a chance to win instantly in just five easy steps: Buy any of the following San Miguel Beer in bottle; look for a printed 8-character alphanumeric code under the crown. If there’s a code, the crown is a sure winner; scan the QR Code printed on posters and posted on San Miguel Oktoberfest social media pages to open the GCash - Oktoberfest promo page (go.gcash.com/oktoberfest2021); type the GCash account number and the exact code found under the crown and click on the reward button to claim your prize; and in cash rewards of up to P5,000 credited real-time. There’s still time to join the thousands of drinkers who have already won prizes by simply looking under the crowns of their favorite San Miguel Beers. Stop, look, win, and use the rewards at the nearest store accepting GCash to buy anything, including more San Miguel Beer. Promo is available in areas where allowed until Jan. 31. For more promos and updates like and follow San Miguel Ok

Paying homage to women in sports

THE Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) recognized Filipina athletes who contributed to the development of their respective sports programs through the 2021 Gintong Gawad Award. First row, from left: Gintong Gawad Award judges– UP Dean Francis Diaz, Bemedalled Adeline Ancheta, Commissioner Celia Kiram, Research Director Dr. Edessa Flordeliz, Women in Sports consultant Marilou Cantancio, and Hall of Fame celebrity athlete Elma Muros. Second row, from left: Gintong Gawad Award awardees

such as delivery personnel. Pilipinas Shell tells the story of Filipinos who continues to spread positivity, finding ways of celebrating this season with family, and dear colleagues whom they have come to regard as family. The Tuloy Ang Pasko campaign also maintains that every Filipino deserves a brighter holiday literally and figuratively. Through its Access to Energy (A2E) program, Pilipinas Shell brings remote and off-grid communities the necessary power to light the holidays. “We, as Filipinos, have always been known as cheerful, compassionate people who watch out for our loved ones and our neighbors in all situations,” says Bernal. “This is why we can celebrate Christmas regardless of the challenges and in all situations. We find and share the joy in the simplest things.” Celebrating with Filipinos, even prior to the ‘ber months, Shell distributed food packs and medical supplies to medical frontliners and their families as a continuation of their support to those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Livelihood and health for communities and capacity-building programs for the youth pushed on through the company’s social arm, the Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. (PSFI) A special Christmas promotion, “Everyday Pamasko with Shell,” was also launched to give away prizes to Shell’s most loyal customers across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Embrace the true meaning of the Christmas season and watch Pilipinas Shell’s Christmas videos at https://www. shell.com.ph/tuloyparinangpasko

The Pilipinas Shell campaign shines a light on the admirable essential workers such as delivery personnel who can’t celebrate the holidays with their families because they need to keep on working.

San Miguel Beer’s instant GCash promo extended

SNAPSHOT

PILIPINAS Shell Petroleum Corporation has launched its “Tuloy Ang Pasko” campaign to provide encouragement through the holidays, and to remind Filipinos that despite life’s many challenges, the hope and optimism inherent to Philippine culture still shine during the pandemic. “In this campaign, Pilipinas Shell tells the stories and honors Filipinos who continue to work and move the Philippines forward even during the holiday season,” says Serge Bernal, Vice President for Corporate Relations of Pilipinas Shell. “Despite the challenges, we want this to be a reminder that Filipinos always find a way to make Christmas merrier. Tuloy lang ang pasko ng Pilipino.” Through a new set of films, Pilipinas Shell shows how the average Filipino family continues to find the means to find joy in the holidays despite the pandemic and the adversity life has thrown their way. The video series tells stories that are simple, touching, and that every Filipino can relate to. The Pasko on the Road: Truck video tells the story of Tolits, a truck driver who was not feeling festive despite being surrounded by the Christmas spirit on Christmas Eve. The video reminds us that Christmas is about the kindness people spread throughout the season, and being able to celebrate as a family even in simple but meaningful ways. For Filipinos who cannot celebrate with their loved ones because they need to keep working during the holidays, the Pasko on the Road: Rider video shines a light on the admirable essential workers

– Dr. Drolly Claravall, Isabela (Natatangi at Makabagong Produktong Pang-Isport); Dr. Jenalyn Fundal, Iloilo (Babaeng Lider ng Isport); Precious Glorian Jimenez, Cavite (Special Citation for Exemplary Contribution to Science-based Basketball Developmental Coaching); Norma Alamara, Davao City (Ina ng Isport); Rhea Haina Garcia, Pangasinan (Babaeng Atleta, Modelo ng Kabataan na may Kapansanan); Kyla Soguilon, Aklan (Babaeng Atleta, Modelo ng Kabataan); Joanthan Arias, Tobaco City (Proyektong Isport Pangkakabaihan)

Creative intervention strategy for young learners WITH the thought of helping nurture the development of some young disadvantaged learners, Edward S. Agdeppa in 2016 single-handedly and successfully initiated free informal intervention classes for underachieving learners in the poor communities of North Fairview. A government employee and an expert in systems analysis and Mathematics, Agdeppa modeled his intervention teaching strategy after the DREAMS (Development, Rehabilitation, Education, in the Arts, Media & Sciences), a pedagogy that uses creative drama as an instructional adjunctive tool for sociallydisadvantaged learners. Its blueprint was created by Cecile Guidote-Alvarez (RM awardee for Communications & Public Service) that won her the coveted UNESCO Artist for Peace award. He was then a company member, actor, and set designer of Balintataw Film & Theater Arts of the UNESCO Phil. Centre for (ITI) Int’l. Theatre Institute now under its Pres. Emeritus Guidote- Alvarez, also the founder of nationalist theater Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA). For some years, he held classes on weekends in street alleys shaded by donated tents and makeshift dividers for young learners whose parents cannot provide satisfactory learning intervention for their own children. These children were lagging behind in the competencies of reading, writing, and computational skills expected of them from regular schooling. Agdeppa called his initiative “I-Volunteer for Filipino Children” (IVFC). Eventually, a barangay councilor

provided him ample space with an air conditioning unit for use as a classroom. This became his pilot center where likeminded colleagues, creative theater pedagogues, volunteer teacher aides, and social workers joined him and who went on to replicate his formula nationwide. From 2016 to the present time, Agdeppa continues his advocacy even up to the Covid-19 pandemic using an alternate mode of coaching via distance learning even without using the internet. Looking back, he could hardly believe the success of his advocacy seeing to the impressive achievements of his young learners competing and winning major and special awards in local and international competitions. Incidentally, Agdeppa has recently been nominated by Governor Liza V. Elorde (Rotary International District 3810 RY 2019-2020) to the “THE ONE International Humanitarian Award 2022.” This is intended to recognize an individual whose extraordinary service activity exemplifies the Rotary ideal of “Service Above Self.”

i-Volunteer for Filipino Children founder Edward Agdeppa