Manila Standard - 2022 January 27 - Thursday

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(Story on A4) QUIBOLOY’S BROADCAST OUTFIT GETS ABS-CBN FRANCHISE A BROADCAST company owned by Davao-based Pastor Apollo Quiboloy has been granted by the National Telecommunications Commission a broadcast frequency formerly used by ABSCBN Corp. Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) president Dr. Marlon

Rosete confirmed this to ABS-CBN News on Wednesday, telling the network in a text message: “Yes 'yung ch43 ang binigay” [Yes, channel 43 was given to us]. The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) also confirmed that it granted Swara Sug Media Corp, the operator of SMNI, provisional authority

to install, operate and maintain a digital TV broadcasting system on Jan. 5. (See related story on B4 – Editors) This was a day after the NTC also granted a company controlled by former Senator Manuel Villar a provisional license to operate TV broadcasts in Metro Manila and Mega Manila using the fre-

quencies previously held by ABS-CBN. Meanwhile, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) on Wednesday said it is "concerned" about the granting of frequencies last held by ABS-CBN to other companies, which, according to a think tank, appears to be an "almost midnight deal." Next page

Pastor Apollo Quiboloy

DTI OKs bread price hikes, SRP set for release today THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Wednesday approved a onetime increase in the prices of Pinoy Tasty and Pinoy Pandesal by P3.50 and P2, respectively, after bakers announced the move over the weekend. The new suggested retail prices

(SRPs) on the bread products will be released today, January 27, as branded breads will hike their prices by the same rate – in a double-whammy for Filipino consumers after oil companies also hiked pump prices by as much as P1.90 a liter on Tuesday. Next page

VOL. XXXV • NO. 346 • 4 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P18 THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 2022 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Workers get vax ultimatum

DOTr issues 30-day period to get vaccinated or be barred from PUVs By Darwin G. Amojelar

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HE government said on Wednesday that workers unvaccinated and partially vaccinated against COVID-19 can continue riding public transportation in Metro Manila for 30 days starting Jan. 26, after which they must comply with the “no vaccination, no ride” policy.

The announcement by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) – echoed by the Labor and Interior departments -- seemed to contradict Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III’s declaration a week ago that unvaccinated workers were exempted from the policy because they provide “essential services.” But Transportation Undersecretary Artemio Tuazon Jr., the department’s official representative to the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF), said the policy was in place to protect unvaccinated and partially vaccinated workers from developing severe COVID-19 infections. “Data show that workers who remain unvaccinated against the virus that causes Next page

PREVENTION AND CURE. A vaccinator gives a shot of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to a commuter during the MMDA mobile vaccination drive at the Paranaque Integrated Terminal Exchange on Monday. Meanwhile, MMDA, Health and Interior Department officials turn over some of the 45,000 COVID home care kits donated by Pitmaster Foundation to residents of Pasay City (inset). Danny Pata and Norman Cruz

Daily cases below 20k for second day THE Philippines logged 15,789 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, the second day that the daily tally fell below 20,000, the Department of Health (DOH) reported. The new cases brought the total number of infections to 3,475,293. The positivity rate was at 35.8 percent, based on 48,725 people tested on Jan. 24. This was still much higher than the tar-

get set by the World Health Organization (WHO) of under 5 percent. The DOH also said Wednesday that it has observed a sustained increase in COVID-19 cases in the Visayas and Mindanao. In an advisory, the DOH noted infections in the Visayas rose by 87.35 percent Next page

DOH to gov’t PH logs 3 Omicron deaths; execs: Be good WHO: Strain risk very high model, get jabs By Willie Casas

By Willie Casas THE Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday urged government officials to be good models for the public and get vaccinated against COVID-19. Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire issued the statement when asked about the policy of the DOH on government workers who want to wait to get vaccinated with their preferred brands. “We just want to urge all government officials, let us try to be models so the public will follow,” Vergeire said in Filipino on ANC. “Let us show confidence in our Next page

THE Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday reported three more fatalities among the Omicron variant COVID-19 cases in the Philippines, bringing the total to five. Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, in a message to reporters, said all five are individuals with comorbidities. “Three are seniors and all have comorbidities. One partially vaccinated, one unvaccinated, and the remaining three are still for verification,” Vergeire said. This developed as the World Health Organization said Tuesday the risk level related to the Omicron variant remains very high, with the numbers of new Covid-19 cases hitting another record

high last week. "Over 21 million new cases were reported, representing the highest number of weekly cases recorded since the beginning of the pandemic," the WHO said in its weekly epidemiological coronavirus update. The United Nations health agency said the number of new infections increased by five percent in the week to Sunday— compared to the 20 percent rise registered the week before. "A slower increase in case incidence was observed at the global level," the WHO said. The DOH previously stressed that senior citizens, those with comorbidities, and unvaccinated individuals remain at risk against Omicron, a highly Next page

3,475,293 15,789

230,410

53,664

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3,191,219 32,712 NEEDED FOR ENTRY. Churchgoers present their vaccination cards to the

guard on duty at the Baclaran Church and take their temperature as a requirement before attending Mass inside the popular cathedral on Wednesday. Norman Cruz

(As of 4 PM, JANUARY 26)

TRACER CARDS. Residents visit TRACE (Taguig Registry for Access and Citizen Engagement) kiosks in Brgy. North Signal in Taguig City on Wednesday to have their Trace QR Code and vaccination status printed and laminated for free. The document is a vital requirement for vaccinated individuals to go out of the city. Danny Pata

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 2022

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House recalls report rapping Duque By Maricel V. Cruz

Party-list Rep. Michael Edgar Aglipay, chairperson of the Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, which conducted the inquiry, said the House should adhere to due process to allow the concerned personalities to ex-

plain. On Wednesday, lawmakers approved the motion of Manila Rep. John Marvin “Yul Servo” Nieto to "reconsider the adoption of findings and recommendations as contained in Committee Report number

1393 on House Resolution 1711." The inquiry focused on the policies and guidelines of the Department of Health and the Food and Drug Administration for the "registration, utilization, manufacture, distribution or sale of drug products for the coronavirus disease." The panel earlier released Committee Report No. 1393 dated December 16, 2021, which endorsed the filing of a complaint for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 9485 or the “Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007” against Duque, former Food and Drug Administration (FDA) chief Eric Domingo, and FDA’s Center for Drug Regulation and Research Director Joyce Cirunay.

Workers...

was signed by President Rodrigo Duterte in February 2021. The government should shoulder the expenses for the swab testing and antigen test of unvaccinated employees instead, the ALU added. Last week, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) said that while it supports the government’s vaccination drive, there is no legal basis for “no-vaccine-noride” and “no-vaccine-stay-home” rules. The IBP expressed concern on the legal implications of recent developments affecting unvaccinated persons, saying the policies “appear to be unfair and unreasonable” as only around 54 million Filipinos or roughly half of the population have been given the COVID-19 vaccine. The lawyers’ group also noted that not enough vaccines are available, majority of individuals 17 years and under have not yet been vaccinated, and that there is not enough data at the local government or barangay level on who have been vaccinated.

But Tuazon said that 30 days following the announcement of the new protocol, only workers in the NCR who are fully vaccinated -- those who have completed the two-dose primary series vaccinations or the one-dose vaccination -- will be allowed to use public transportation. Tuazon added that the joint decision made by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the DOTr supports the government’s ongoing thrust to ramp up vaccination efforts, especially amid a surge caused by the highly transmissible Omicron variant. “This joint decision is also meant to support the vaccination drive of the entire government. We want our workers to get fully vaccinated especially now that there is no longer a shortage of COVID-19 vaccines, and there is a threat of highly transmissible variants of the virus. We are giving our workers the time to get themselves vaccinated,” Tuazon said. The government’s no jab, no ride

policy has also come under heavy fire by groups who say it discriminates against the poor. They also say it violates the law on COVID-19 vaccination, which states that COVID-19 vaccine cards "shall not be considered as an additional mandatory requirement for education, employment, and other similar government transaction purposes." Tuazon said, however, that after the 30day deadline, unvaccinated workers can still take other forms of transportation—such as private vehicles, company shuttles, or “active transport” -- to go to work. Earlier, the DOTr said it was considering opening mobile vaccination sites in transport hubs all over the country. From Jan 24 to 28, the department is working with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority to put up a vaccination center at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX). Tuazon said the PITX was only the first of such initiatives that may include railway stations, ports and airports.

is not much difference," she told ANC's Headstart. According to Dr. Rontgene Solante, head of adult infectious diseases at the San Lazaro Hospital in Manila, the difference between the two only lies on the number of mutations. The BA.1 has more than 60 mutations while the BA.2 has around 85 mutations, Solante said. "That’s why in some of these articles before it was called stealth omicron because it was not readily detected with the test. You need sequencing in order for you to identify specific mutations," he said. The first two deaths among confirmed Omicron cases in the country were unvaccinated senior citizens with preexisting medical conditions. The DOH said that upon verification, one of the first two fatalities was partially vaccinated. The Philippines has so far recorded a total of 535 Omicron cases.

Meanwhile, the WHO said nearly 50,000 new deaths were also reported across the world -- a similar figure to the week before. The report said Omicron continued to increase its dominance globally over the other variants of concern. "The current global epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 is characterized by the dominance of the Omicron variant on a global scale, continued decline in the prevalence of the Delta variant, and very low-level circulation of Alpha, Beta and Gamma variants," the WHO said. "Countries that experienced a rapid rise in Omicron cases in November and December 2021 have been or are beginning to see declines in cases. However, "based on the currently available evidence, the overall risk related to the Omicron variant remains very high". The WHO said that of samples collected in the last 30 days that have been

sequenced and uploaded to the GISAID global science initiative, Omicron accounted for 89.1 percent. Delta -- previously the world's dominant variant -- now makes up 10.7 percent. "For the behavior of the virus, if it’s more severe than omicron I don’t think it will cause severe (disease),” Solante said. The Omicron variant should not be dismissed even if it seems to infect patients with mild symptoms, Vergeire said. "We cannot put some lighter weight para sa omicron because it has lighter symptoms because it can be severe," she said. The public is urged to get vaccinated and boosted to avoid more transmission that can lead to more mutations of coronavirus, according to Solante. Vergeire, meantime, told those seeking a fourth dose of COVID-19 vaccine to "be patient" as there is not enough data that calls for it. AFP

which 6,902 were asymptomatic; 218,711 were mild; 2,982 were moderate; 1,507 were severe; and 308 were critical. Nationwide, 48 percent of ICU beds, 52 percent of isolation beds, 53 percent of ward beds, and 25 percent of ventilators, were in use. In Metro Manila, 42 percent of ICU beds, 44 percent of isolation beds, 47 percent of ward beds, and 24 percent of ventilators, were in use. An infectious disease expert, meanwhile, said the government should subsidize drugs for COVID-19 treatment. Antiviral drug molnupiravir, when given within five days of onset of symptoms, prevents patients' progression to severe disease by 30 percent, said Dr. Rontgene Solante, head of adult infectious diseases at the San Lazaro Hospital in Manila. "There should be monitoring of the patient given but I think the bottom line is accessibility and this accessibility should also include a subsidy from the government. It should be free for those who cannot really afford this drug," Solante told ANC's Headstart. "For now, we don't have molnupiravir in most of these government hospitals. We’re using remdesivir for these patients,” Solante said, noting that the drug is good for mild to moderate cases. The DOH said it has already distributed funds to government hospitals for the purchase of the drugs. "Ever since these new drugs have come in, it has been part of the management of our hospitals,” Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said. The DOH is also drafting a new policy on opening access to these drugs through retailers, Vergeire said. Willie Casas

DOH... vaccines and let us show that these are weapons to protect the population,” she said. Vergeire said holding off on vaccination would be unfair for other government workers who have already complied with the protocols of the government. She also stressed that all vaccines are safe and effective. The DOH remarks come on the heels of an admission by Public Attorney's Office (PAO) chief Persida Acosta that she has not been vaccinated against COVID-19 because she was waiting for a “protein-based vaccine.” But Health Secretary Francisco Duque III appealed to Acosta to get vaccinated because “she’s almost a senior citizen” and should get protection from COVID-19. Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said Acosta should be barred from going to work until she is vaccinated because she was putting the life, health and safety of her coworkers in danger. Meanwhile, the Philippine Medical Association (PMA) said the government should schedule National COVID-19 Vaccination Days for children aged 5 to11. PMA president Dr. Benito Atienza issued the statement after the government said that vaccination of children in that age bracket would begin on Feb. 4. "We had a town hall meeting with the Health department and health workers, including doctors, in Southern Tagalong yesterday. We are hoping that there will be National Vaccination Days for this age group so the parents can accompany their children in vaccination centers," Atienza

said at an online briefing. "We really need more spacious vaccination centers for these children because children of this age group have the tendency to have a short attention span. It would be best if there is a video they can watch while they wait for their turn," he added. Atienza also said an intensified information drive on the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines is also needed to convince parents and guardians to have the children vaccinated. "We should strengthen the information drive because there are parents who are still hesitant to have their children vaccinated," he said. Atienza said such COVID-19 National Vaccination Days should be scheduled on weekends so as not to run in conflict with the work schedule of the parents or guardians. There are about 12 million to 13 million Filipino children aged 5 to 11, Atienza said. The DOH on Wednesday said 58 percent of minors aged 12 to 17 have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The Philippines began administering vaccines to the 12-17 age group in October, beginning with those suffering from underlying medical conditions. The government aims to vaccinate 10.7 million in this age group. As of Tuesday, the Philippines has fully vaccinated 57.8 million people, while 59.98 million others have received an initial dose, and 6.68 million booster shots have been administered, the DOH said. Dr. Mary Ann Bunyi, president of the Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines, said children with preexisting illnesses are at a higher risk for severe COVID-19 disease. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

The NTC orders assigning frequencies used by ABS-CBN were dated Jan. 5 and 6, a few days before this year's election period opened on Jan. 9. "Parceling these frequencies leaves a bad taste in the mouth given that the Duterte administration is already in its final months, and it sure looks like an almost midnight deal with these media entities," Ridon said in a statement. "They can try to legally justify it all they want, but the public will surely have none of it, especially with one of the Villars (former Public Works Secretary Mark Villar) run-

ning now for public office," he added. In a statement, the NTC defended its move, saying it granted the frequencies to Villar’s Advanced Media Broadcasting System Inc. as it was “the first applicant for an authority to install, operate and maintain a digital TV in Metro Manila as filed on Oct. 5, 2006.” It said ABMS “received provisional authority after the determination of its legal, technical, and financial qualification.” Channel 43 used to be assigned to Amcara Broadcasting Corp., whose legislative franchise expired in 2020. ABS-CBN used it for its TVPlus channels under a

blocktime agreement with Amcara. The spiritual adviser of President Rodrigo Duterte, Quiboloy already owns UHF Channel 40, where he broadcasts news and religious programs of his religious group Kingdom of Jesus Christ. The NTC said that before granting Swara Sug its provisional authority, it sought policy guidance from the Department of Information and Communications Technology, a legal opinion from the Department of Justice, and the concurrence of the Office of the Executive Secretary. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

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he House of Representatives on Wednesday recalled a committee report recommending the filing of charges against Health Secretary Francisco Duque III and other health officials over the government's COVID-19 response.

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COVID-19 are more vulnerable to severe and critical infections,” Tuazon said. But the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) reiterated its claim that the policy is a form of punishment and discrimination for employees who have not gotten vaccinated against the coronavirus disease. Alan Tanjusay, TUCP national spokesperson, said the Duterte administration should provide incentives to their employees to convince them to get vaccinated, such as giving them paid leaves, financial bonuses, rice allowance, or simply providing shuttle services going to vaccination sites. The Associated Labor Unions (ALU) has also condemned the move, saying that vaccination is not mandatory under Republic Act 11525 or the COVID-19 Vaccination Program Act of 2021 that

PH... From A1

transmissible variant of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. “While Omicron mostly presents with asymptomatic and mild disease, our data shows that those most at risk for fatalities are still the elderly and those with comorbidities and unvaccinated,” the DOH previously said. There is not much difference between the Omicron variant and its "stealth" subvariants, the DOH said on Wednesday as it announced another death following infection of the highly transmissible lineage. Omicron is now predominant in Metro Manila and other regions, Vergeire had said. The Philippines has detected both omicron's sub lineages, BA.1 and BA.2 or the "stealth omicron," she said. "Based on current observations all over the world, we are observing there

Daily... From A1

while those in Mindanao increased by 164.72 percent from the previous week. “Regions 6 (Western Visayas), 7 (Central Visayas), and 11 (Davao Region) have been the top regions in the VisMin (Visayas-Mindanao) island groups based on their seven-day moving average since Jan. 19, 2022, with bed utilization at moderate risk and ICU utilization at moderate risk,” the DOH said. The independent OCTA Research Group said Cebu City is classified as “high risk” for Covid-19, as the city’s seven-day average of new cases increased to 722 from Jan. 19 to 25 from last week’s 325. Its current average daily attack rate is 69 percent while its seven-day positivity rate is 40 percent. On the other hand, OCTA said the reproduction number of COVID-19 in the National Capital Region (NCR) had decreased to 0.71. Reproduction rate refers to the number of people who can be infected by one case. A reproduction number that is below 1 indicates that the transmission of the virus is slowing down. David earlier said the reproduction number in NCR had gone down to 0.91, adding that it was a confirmation of the downward trend not just in new COVID-19 cases but in active cases as well. Nationwide, 66 new fatalities were reported Wednesday, bringing the COVID-19 death toll to 53,664. The DOH also reported 32,712 new recoveries, bringing the total number of recoveries to 3,191,219. There were 230,410 active cases, of

Quiboloy’s... From A1

While the NTC gave a legal and "procedural explanation" for the move, it was done days before the election period, Infrawatch PH convenor Terry Ridon said. Under subsection 6.4 of Republic Act No. 9006 or the Fair Elections Act, "No franchise or permit to operate a radio or television station shall be granted or issued, suspended or canceled during the election period."

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Domingo, who has resigned from FDA, on Wednesday pointed out that the evaluation and approval of COVID-19 drug products were being done in a proper and timely manner. The committee cited possible violation of Section 8, which ensures access to frontline services including acceptance of applications and requests, and action of concerned offices. The committee also recommended filing a complaint against Duque and Domingo for alleged violation of Republic Act No. 6713 or the "Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees”. See full story online at manilastandard.net)

LIPI hits Human Defenders bill, wants it shelved PROPOSED legislation to establish a Human Defenders Law should be withdrawn from the House of Representatives and Senate or vetoed by President Rodrigo Duterte if Congress passes the measure, the group Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI) said Wednesday. “This may appear to be okay on the surface, but a closer examination of the suggestions reveals numerous flaws,” said Jose Antonio “Ka Pep” Goitia, LIPI National Chairperson, in a statement. He noted that House Bill 10576 and Senate Bill 179 both define a human rights defender “as someone who advocates for any human right (or rights) on behalf of individuals or groups. Human rights defenders work to promote and protect civil and political rights, as well as economic, social, and cultural rights.” “However, we object to the institutionalization of a human rights law. No such law has been approved in any country, as it is ambiguous and can be abused as a political tool by any individual or organization,” Goitia said. The LIPI chief said the group “makes no judgments about the activities of those involved in these types of advocacies.” See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Pasay cops nab man making fake COVID vax cards By Joel E. Zurbano AUTHORITIES arrested a graphic artist caught producing and selling fake COVID-19 vaccination cards in Pasay City. Operatives of the Pasay City Police - Station Intelligence Section arrested 28-year-old Marcelo Cabansag for falsifying, printing, and selling the cards to unvaccinated individuals. Cabansag was apprehended late Tuesday at No. 32 P. Arnaiz Avenue, Libertad in Barangay 94, Zone 11, after he failed to show proof that he is authorized to produce and sell Pasay City vaccination cards. Seized from the suspect were P100 marked money, six falsified COVID-19 Vaccination Cards, one Dell computer monitor, one Lenovo CPU, a keyboard and mouse, one computer power supply, two printers, one laminator machine, one photocopier and printer machine, two glossy photo papers, two laminating film, and two paper cutters. While Metro Manila is under Alert Level 3, commercial establishments and public transport will require customers and passengers to show proof of vaccination together with identification cards before they will be allowed to enter establishments and conveyances. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

DTI... From A1

The price of fish, particularly the Filipino staple “galunggong” (round scad), is also forecast to rise in the coming days as the Department of Agriculture declared its intention to import 60,000 tons of fish to help bridge a shortage in local output affected by the recent Typhoon Odette. This is the first time in six years that bakers raised the prices of the Pinoy Tasty and Pinoy Pandesal -- affordable options bread that started out as a corporate social responsibility project of the bakers’ groups, the flour millers, and the DTI. They initially planned to raise prices in the last part of 2021 but delayed it due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the holiday season. Pinoy Tasty will be priced at P38.50 from P35 per 450-gram loaf, while Pinoy Pandesal will sell for P23.50 from P21.50 per 250-gram pack of 10. The price increases will be spread out from February 1 to 8 to give the DTI time to publish the SRPs and the supermarkets a chance to adjust their points-of-sale or cash registers, the agency said. The Philippine Baking Industry Group said they can no longer absorb the sharp increases in the prices of ingredients, particularly of flour, as its prices have gone up 35 percent in the fourth quarter of 2021 from P720 per sack to P980. “This is brought about by an increase of consumption in China, which starting buying wheat grains while Russia has slowed down their wheat exports because of food security issues and wheat crop failure in America due to harsh winter and drought, or global warming,” said Philbaking president Johnlu Koa. The group said prices of flour had climbed to P1,000 per 25 kilogram bag from P955 in the last quarter of 2021 and from P690 in August of the same year. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

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IN BRIEF Crime incidents decline in NCR over last 40 days CRIMES such as robbery, car and motor thefts, rape, and physical injury went down in Metro Manila, the National Capital Region Police Office reported on Wednesday. Metro Manila police director P/ Maj. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr. said the NCRPO recorded a decline on its focus crimes for the past 440 days covering the period of Nov. 10, 2020, to Jan. 23, 2022. Based on police records, the crime rate on the said period was 109,079, which is 16.9 percent lower than the previous 131,230 incidents recorded in 441 days covering the period of Sept. 5, 2019, to Nov. 9, 2020. The focus crimes include homicide, physical injury, robbery, theft, vehicle theft, motorcycle theft, and rape while non-index crimes refer to other illegal acts, including violations of special laws or local ordinances. Joel E. Zurbano

Be mindful of wildlife species law—DENR ENVIRONMENT Secretary Roy Cimatu on Wednesday urged the public to strictly follow law when buying certain wildlife species. He said the people must be mindful of the legal measures when purchasing certain wildlife species, as stated under Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001. He said 25 tarantulas and 112 spiderlings were seized by the Wildlife Traffic Monitoring Unit-Ninoy Aquino International Airport of the DENR-National Capital Region upon the turnover of the wildlife by the Bureau of Customs stationed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Rio N. Araja

CONFIRMED. Senate President and Commission on Appointments

(CA) chair Vicente C. Sotto III gave Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Andres Centino a fist bump after his ad interim appointment was confirmed by the CA on Wednesday, January 26. Aside from Centino, the CA also gave its nod to the appointments of 17 other generals of the AFP. Voltaire F. Domingo/Senate PRIB

Suspects in BDO ‘hacking’ indicted By Rey E. Requejo

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HE Department of Justice (DOJ) has indicted four individuals, including a Nigerian national, in connection with the “hacking” of depositors’ accounts with Banco de Oro last December.

The DOJ prosecutors will charge Ronelyn Panaligan, Clay Revillosa, and Nigerian national Ifesinachi Fountain Anaekwe alias “Daddy Champ” for violations of Republic Act No. 8484, the Access Devices Regulation Act of 1998, and RA 10175, the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. In the case of Jheron Anthony Taupa, another alleged participant in the ac-

counts hacking, the DOJ said he was arrested last January 18 in Palmayo, Florida Blanca, Pampanga, and has been charged before the regional trial court in Guagua, Pampanga last January 25 for misuse of devices under RA 10175. In a statement, the DOJ said in the case of another Nigerian national, Chukwuemeka Peter Nwadi, the complaints against him will be subjected to

further investigation. All the suspects were arrested in separate entrapment operations conducted by the National Bureau of Investigation-Cybercrime Division (NBI-CCD) and were presented for an inquest before the DOJ. “Other than his presence during the entrapment operation, no other evidence was adduced by complainants as to his participation on the trafficking of unauthorized access devices. Thus, additional evidence must be presented to determine if there is probable cause for the indictment of Nwadi. Meanwhile, Nwadi will be released from detention,” the DOJ said, referring to the further probe of Nwadi.

Beef up efforts against phishing, solon prods CICC

Moro execs hail govt law on amnesty By Nash B. Maulana COTABATO CITY—Moro officials and peace activists said the congressional concurrence on the Presidential Amnesty Proclamations signaled a strong government push for the continuity of the peace process. Lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, spokesperson of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) described Resolution No. 12 passed by Congress as a “milestone that is very significant” to the normalization aspect of the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). It can be recalled that on February 17, 2021, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte issued Presidential Proclamations 1090, 1091, and 1092 to grant amnesty to members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF); Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF); Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas, and Revolutionary Proletarian Army, Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB) The House of Representatives and the Senate have separately passed Resolution No. 12 concurring on such Presidential Proclamations, one after the other on Monday and Tuesday.

“A Motion for Issuance of Hold Departure Order will be filed against Anaekwe, and a Motion for Issuance of Precautionary Hold Departure Order against Nwadi,” it said. The DOJ said the five individuals were “allegedly behind the Banco de Oro bank heist that happened sometime in December 2021.” “According to the NBI-CCD, the tasks of these 5 individuals are compartmentalized – that is, their respective participations are vital, without which, fraudulent transfers or illegal access of online accounts would not be possible,” the DOJ said, in detailing the illegal operations of the suspects.

BACK HOME. After spending more than a month helping to restore power in areas devastated by typhoon Odette, linemen and

engineers of Manila Electric Company (Meralco) are finally back home on board 2Go vessels from Cebu and Bohol. Forty-three Meralco personnel arrived at the North Harbor Pier 4 in Tondo Manila and received a warm welcome from 2Go and Meralco officials. Norman Cruz

DOT affirms ruling to suspend Berjaya Makati Hotel THE Department of Tourism affirmed its decision to suspend the accreditation of Berjaya Makati Hotel. It can be recalled that the hotel was the place where a guest, dubbed “Poblacion Girl,” reportedly skipped quarantine to attend a party and in the process violated government health protocols. The guest, identified as a certain “Gwyneth Chua” skipped quarantine. Those who attend the party and had close contact with Chua eventually test-

ed positive for COVID-19. The DOT, in a notice of resolution, said the hotel was “liable for violation of government health and safety protocols.” Berjaya Makati’s suspension of accreditation however was shortened to two months instead of three. The DOT further said the Berjaya’s permit as a multiple-purpose hotel has been revoked, due to the quarantine violations A multiple-purpose hotel can accommodate both quarantine and “regular” guests.

In a letter, the DOT said “Under IATF Guidelines on the Nationwide Implementation of Alert Level System for COVID-19, Response, as of December 14, 2021, Section 1 (5) states that only hotels or accommodation establishments with valid DOT Accreditation shall be allowed to accommodate guests and clients subject to guidelines issued by the Department of Tourism and the IATF.” Berjaya Makati Hotel was earlier padlocked, but filed an appeal.

CONGRESS is counting on the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) “to take strong action against the mounting cases of fraudulent bank transactions perpetrated by phishers as well as hackers,” Anakalusugan party-list Rep. Michael Defensor said on Wednesday. “We gave the CICC a total of P365.4 million in new appropriations this year, including P63.5 million for capital outlay, precisely so that it can start operating effectively,” Defensor said. The CICC’s budget this year is 31 times the measly P11.7 million it received in 2021, according to Defensor. Defensor’s remarks came after several public school teachers lost between P26,000 to P121,000 each after they were victimized by phishers. The phishers tricked the teachers into revealing confidential details, and then illegally accessed and took money out of their payroll accounts with the stateowned Land Bank of the Philippines. The CICC is an inter-agency body created by the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 to protect the integrity of the country’s computer and communications network and crack down on all forms of misuse, abuse, and illegal access. The center is comprised of the Secretary of Information and Communications Technology, the Director of the National Bureau of Investigation, the Chief of the Philippine National Police, the Director of the Department of Justice’s Office of Cybercrime, and a representative from the private sector/academe.

Villar eyes more legislation for PH fish hatcheries SENATOR Cynthia A. Villar is pushing for the establishment of more legislation to beef up the country’s fish hatcheries. Villar, chairperson of Senate committee on Agriculture, Food and Agrarian Reform, on Monday, led the hearing on 11 House Bills and one Senate Bill which seeks to build additional fish hatcheries. In 2020, the total production volume of

fishing in the Philippines amounted to approximately 4.4 million metric tons. In the same period, the overall production value of fishing in the country reached approximately P273.5 billion. The fishing industry contributes 1.2 percent to the country’s Gross Domestic Products (GDP) at current prices which is about P228 billion.

Villar emphasized that hatcheries provide the seed for aquaculture and where some fish and shellfish are spawned, hatched, and cared for. Aquaculture contributes significantly to the country’s food security, employment, and foreign exchange earnings. Aquaculture is growing much faster than capture fisheries.

Cops nab drug suspect, seize P13m shabu in Makati By Joel E. Zurbano

AID FOR FARMERS. More than 1,500 Tabaqueño farmers received their unconditional Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund-Rice Farmers Financial Assistance(RCEF-RFFA) in the amount of P5,000 each from Tabaco City Mayor Krisel Lagman. Norman Cruz

POLICE arrested a big-time drug dealer who was caught with P13.6 million worth of shabu during a buy-bust operation Tuesday night in Makati City. Southern Police District director P/

Brig. Gen. Jimili Macaraeg identified the suspect as Aldren Mariscal, 21 years old and resident of Pasay City. Macaraeg said joint elements of the Makati City Police – Drug Enforcement Unit and Station Investigation Section conducted the police operation at the corner of

Evangelista Street and Arnaiz Avenue in Barangay Bangkal around 5:37 p.m. Recovered from suspect were one plastic pack containing two kilos of shabu, two eco bags, and P2,000 cash and 898 pieces of P1,000 bill boodle money used in the entrapment operation.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 2022

Du30 to name ‘most corrupt’ presidentiable

VP’S GRATITUDE. Vice President

Leni Robredo visits Wednesday soldiers of Joint Task Force Basilan at Camp Luis R. Biel II, Isabela City, Basilan, on the same day she visits the fisherfolk in Malamawi island (inset). In Isabela City, Robredo meets with Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, commander of the 101st Brigade and Joint Task Force Basilan, where she thanked the soldiers for their service. Gobway received from Robredo 500 COVID-19 antigen test kits, a contribution of the Office of the Vice President to the JTF Basilan’s pandemic response efforts for its soldiers. OVP Photos

By Macon Ramos-Araneta SENATOR Panfilo Lacson said Wednesday Filipinos would have to wait for President Rodrigo Duterte on what he thought of the different candidates running to succeed him in June 2022. Lacson, standard bearer of Partido Reporma was reacting to the order of President to the Philippine National Police to do a “background check” on the most corrupt presidential aspirants in the May elections. The 76-year-old Duterte, who won his six-year term as chief executive in the May 2016 elections, said this was part of his obligation as head of state. But aside from that, Duterte said one of the candidates “really cannot be a president” while another candidate could be elected but was “too corrupt.” If the findings of the investigarion would be grounded on facts and evidence, Lacson stressed this would be helpful to the voters still on the fence as to who to vote for. He said this would also allow others to change their minds if they felt their chosen candidates were wanting either in integrity, capability or potential. Lacson, a former PNP chief, also proposed that criminal charges be filed against any presidential aspirant found involved in corruption. “Curiously, shouldn’t the same facts and evidence on a particular candidate -- especially if pertaining to potential corrupt or criminal conduct -- be a basis for pursuing a case in the Sandiganbayan or our regular courts?” also asked Lacson.

BBM pushes for more transparency

‘Continuous’ background check on prexy bets–PNP

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HE Philippine National Police, in line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s statement, said Wednesday it was conducting “continuous background check” on 10 presidential aspirants for the May 9, 2022 elections to find out who among them is corrupt. The 10 are in the Comelec list although only five are often in the range of the social media and the mainstream print and broadcast news organizations. “Background checks are continuous,” PNP chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos told a press conference. But he added: “At the end of the day, we will not jump the gun. We are not directed to name names. We will just do our work. Submit our report to our command line, leadership.”

In a pre-recorded Talk to the People aired Tuesday, Duterte said he would soon bare who among the presidentiables was the “most corrupt.” “In due time, I will personally name the candidates, maybe what is wrong with them. the people need to know because you are electing a president,” he said. “I will tell you who is the most corrupt candidate. I am not politicking. I am talking to you as your president. There are things you must know,” Duterte added.

In an earlier speech, Duterte accused a presidential candidate whose identity he did not disclose of being a cocaine user, a claim Carlos said in which they have no evidence to date. Meanwhile, the Commission on Elections will sponsor a total six presidential and vice-presidential debates when the official campaign period for national posts begins on Feb. 8. Speaking at the Kapihan sa Manila Bay on Jan. 26, Comelec spokesman James Jimenez, said one “back-toback” presidential and vice-presidential debate will be staged in the last part of February. Another set of debates will be held in March, while the final set will take place in April.

By Rey E. Requejo PRESIDENTIAL candidate Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. vowed to push for absolute transparency on the statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth (SALN) of public officials, stressing he was willing to make his own SALN open to the public. “I am perfectly willing to show my SALN, and in fact, I have been consistent in doing it before, as a public official,” Bongbong said, in an interview with One News recently. As he pressed for more transparency in the government, he warned, however, against the possibility that unscrupulous individuals with ill motives may use the same official document only for political purposes, citing the tragedy of the late Chief Justice Renato Corona, who was impeached using his SALN, as an example. According to Marcos, the motive of those who are requesting the SALN of a government official should also be considered and examined first before releasing it. “If the purpose is going to be a political attack, then why would we want to do that when you already know the prospect?” he asked. Marcos cited that the Corona impeachment was a political decision and not an objective decision.

FREE TESTS.

Residents of Quezon City avail themselves of the free antigen testing and X-ray mobile service sponsored by Congressman Jesus Suntay and Councilor Irene Belmonte at Philcoa, Quezon City on Jan. 26. Manny Palmero

THE House of Representatives is expected to pass on third reading anytime soon a bill that grants Sangguniang Kabataan kagawads honoraria and appropriate certificates of civil service eligibility. House Ways and Means Chair Joey Sarte Salceda, principal author of the measure, said the measure would likely be enacted into law given that the Senate had also passed its own version of the proposal. “With the Senate version already approved, and the House expected to approve this on final reading next week, we will likely see enactment. There is strong minority and majority support for the measure, so I expect very smooth sailing for this proposal,” Sal-

VICE President Leni Robredo, running for president in the May 2022 elections, visited the headquarters of the AFP Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi on Tuesday and a fisherfolk community in Basilan on Wednesday, her office said. Robredo was received by Marine Col. Nestor Narag, Jr., Deputy Brigade Commander, 2nd Marine Brigade, Lt. Col. Ashley Nastor, Chief of Staff of the 2nd Marine Brigade, and Capt. Angelita Roma Pacion, a military doctor. At the Toong Hall, Robredo signed the Subscriptio Murus wall where she wrote a message of gratitude for the service and sacrifice of the soldiers she called heroes. She turned over to the task force 1,000 N95 face masks procured by the Office of the Vice President and 500 antigen test kits for the soldiers, her office said in a press release. On Wednesday, Robredo visited the fisherfolk community in Brgy. Lukboton, Malamawi Island, in Isabela City, Basilan which received equipment and training needed to double their monthly catch volume and income through a locally funded Angat Buhay project of the Office of the Vice President that started in 2019.

Isko willing to disclose own SALN By Rey E. Requejo

Erice, Oreta, Cruz, Gatchalian top Camanava poll

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

INCUMBENT politicians in Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas and Valenzuela – the so-called Camanava area in Metro Manila – appear as the “top choices” during the May 9, 2022 elections, based on an election survey released rcently. These are outgoing Rep. Edgar Erice

as the “most preferred Caloocan mayor” over Along Malapitan, garnering 2.3k “heart” reacts and 68 percent support against 1.1k “likes” for Malapitan who earned 32 percent support. On the other hand former Malabon Councilor Enzo Oreta obtained an overwhelming support for Malabon mayor with 77 percent; Jeannie San-

doval was a poor second with only 23 percent support, Oreta also amassed 3.2k “likes” while Sandoval had 948 “wow” reacts. In the Navotas survey, Vice Mayor RC Cruz got 55 percent of support while John Rey Tiangco obtained 45 percent. Cruz also had more than 21k “likes” while Tiangco posted 17k ‘haha’ reacts.

CSC eligibility awaits SK leaders By Maricel V. Cruz

Leni visits Tawi Tawi, AFP camp

ceda, representative of Albay’s second district, said Wednesday. House Bill 10698 substituted Salceda’s twin measures on the matter. HB 1030 proposes granting SK councilors the “barangay official eligibility” granted by the Civil Service Commission. Meanwhile, House Bill 1667 provides SK councilors an honoraria. Under the current law, only SK chairpersons are entitled to the said benefit. “If we want to professionalize the SK, we also have to ensure that its efforts are compensated. The SK were very crucial to the fight against COVID-19, as they were among the barangay frontliners that could be mobilized for ayuda distribution and module distribution,” Salceda said.

LAPTOP DISTRIBUTION. Andrew Romualdez, representing Tingog party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez and House Majority Leader Martin Romualdez, distributes Wednesday 40 brand new laptops to student-beneficiaries to help them in their online and modular classes especially in the new normal in education brought about by the pandemic. The Tingog Community Center activity was attended by Raymund Romualdez, vice mayoral candidate; Kap. Albert Eviota, aspirant for Tacloban City councilor and Tingog party-list President Glenn J. Capucion. Also present was Tingog Party List nominee Jude Acidre.

MANILA Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso is willing to make public his Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) if he is elected president in the 2022 elections. Moreno made the remark after he signed Executive Order 11 which cancels all activities in the celebration of the Chinese New Year on February 1 as precautionary measure to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 particularly the highly transmissible Omicron variant. “Well, of course. Is it a requirement? It shall be submitted. Mine has been submitted to the government,” Moreno said, during a press conference at the Manila City Hall on Tuesday. Asked if he was ready to share his SALN to the public, the 47-year-old presidential candidate said the copy of his SALN had been sent to the Office of the Ombudsman. “It’s with the Ombudsman. We are not hiding anything. In fact, don’t you remember the answer I made to question posed by Jessica (Soho) about the excess campaign? I even paid taxes about P13 million, P9.7 million something plus P3 million something I paid in taxes. Because that’s the law. That’s what you have to do. That’s important,” Moreno explained. Moreno previously said all government officials should be open to disclosing their SALN being a public document. He added that as elected officials, “their properties, belongings and their debts” are stated in the document.

Opinion Informed health decisions ference in lowering COVID-19 cases in the country, we need to come up with other ways that will help increase the country’s vaccination rate.

WHILE Metro Manila is faced with the threat of the fast-spreading omicron virus, executive departments scramble to prevent its transmission in public and populated places in and out of the region. Many areas have been placed under localized lockdowns and stricter measures have been imposed upon unvaccinated individuals. Among these measures is the controversial no vax, no ride policy. Absent a vaccination card to prove having COVID-19 shots, public commuters are barred from taking buses, jeepneys, trains, and other forms of public transportation. Instead, these individuals are forced to either stay at home or to find other means of traveling. Several groups including lawyers, human rights advocates, and labor groups slammed this policy, alleging its unconstitutionality and violation of human rights. However, the Department of Transportation insisted on its validity, citing the intent to protect the entire population from further spread of the virus. DOTr also said that the Department of Justice backed the implementation of the said policy in its legal opinion, claiming that the issuance of local ordinances upholding this policy is a valid exercise of the State’s police power and that the policy falls under the public health exception in the regulation of the right to travel. Although the policy seeks good intentions to address the pandemic, we cannot disregard the constitutionally-protected rights of the citizens. Understandably, there is a dilemma in balancing the right of the people, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, to health and the people’s freedom of movement. While it is true that most of the COVID-19 critical cases and deaths recorded in the country are from unvaccinated individuals, they themselves cannot be automatically considered carriers of the virus. It should be considered that there are people who have been unvaccinated up to this day and yet have never contracted the disease. Hence, the government cannot shove the vaccines into the faces of the unconvinced public and force them to take the shots. Although we know that vaccines truly make a dif-

It is rather difficult to implement halfbaked or dubious policies that will likely deter compliance. Perhaps, what we need is a responsive information drive on the benefits of the vaccines. Instead of compelling people against their will, we need to respond to their information needs to help clear doubts regarding the known effects of the vaccines. We cannot disregard the rampant misinformation and disinformation going around in social media and the internet that affect the public’s impression on vaccines. Hence, apart from establishing vaccination sites in populated terminals, perhaps it would be better to have more visible and approachable health professionals that can help empower the general riding public to make informed decisions regarding their own health. At the same time, I call on the executive department to come together for a more unified stance and consistent policies that will avoid confusion and doubts among the people. If we are to resolve and deal with this pandemic, it is highly important that the entire government shares a common goal and a united approach. It is rather difficult to implement half-baked or dubious policies that will likely deter compliance. Most importantly, unvaccinated people are widely recognized to have greater risk of getting infected. While we respect the right of these people to informed consent, it is important that they understand the concomitant need to be more careful and compliant with public health and safety protocols. Bearing the risks of being unvaccinated comes the responsibility of protecting one’s self and everyone else, as it is a public duty in this pandemic. Hence, I urge the unvaccinated to strictly follow the protocols and, at the same time, lend an ear to the truths and benefits of the vaccines. Hopefully soon, with a well-informed citizenry, it may lead to better health-seeking behaviors among the public in general.

Into the lion’s den

LEADING presidential contender, Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas created quite a stir last week when he refused the invitation to guest in the show of prominent television talk show host Jessica Soho. The interview featured other presidential aspirants as well. The reason cited by the Marcos camp, through his chief of staff and spokesman, lawyer Vic Rodriguez, is that they believe Soho is largely biased against the Marcoses, “and therefore, they believe her questions will just focus on negativity about BBM which the UniTeam dislike and will not subscribe as it hopes that the discourse in any forum about this coming elections must focus on how the aspiring presidents will solve the country’s lingering problems caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and what their plans are for the country to roll up from economic stagnation.” Stressing that the 2022 elections could be the most important elections in our lifetime, Rodriguez said “that candidates like presidential aspirant Bongbong Marcos should be expected to present what

his programs and plans are for the country to move forward with his economic plans, vision on education and digital infrastructure, employment creation, ensuring food security through a robust agriculture, how to bring the cost of power more affordable and all the way to our national sovereignty.”

He was going to be slaughtered. “These and other equally important aspects of an aspirant‘s preparedness to lead, ability to govern and capability to be president cannot be tested by his mere appearance on a show that has been perceived by us and our supporters as having previously displayed a preconceived judgment against the Marcoses,” Rodriguez furthered. Expectedly, Soho’s television statement, GMA immediately issued a statement defending their talent, refuted the Marcos camp’s allegation that she is biased against the family of the late president. Unfortunately, GMA failed to recognize we are now living in a digital world where someone’s past can easily be dug up. Just minutes after GMA’s statement was released, a video of Soho speaking before what appears to be a commencement exercise went viral on social media. In the said video, Soho was seen delivering a speech which betrays

THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 2022

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EDITORIAL

Conscription is not a solution

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PROPOSAL to make military service mandatory for Filipinos who turn 18 is exactly what this country doesn’t need.

At a campaign event, vice presidential candidate Sara Duterte-Carpio, the eldest daughter of President Duterte, said if she is elected, she would lobby Congress to make military service mandatory. She offered few details about her plan―only that conscripts would be given an unspecified subsidy during their unspecified period of service in the Armed Forces. “We see this in other countries like South Korea and Israel,” she said―as if this were reason enough for us to follow suit. Predictably, the proposal drew criticism from her rivals for the vice presidency, one of whom called it “a step in the wrong direction.” Another said the proposal exposed Duterte-Carpio’s true militaristic bent―just like her father’s. An opposition candidate for senator said the proposal laid bare Duterte-Carpio’s lack of understanding regarding security concerns and was “wrong on so many levels.” Just as predictably, leftist groups denounced the suggestion,

with one saying it was “totally detached… from the basic needs of the youth, which are education and proper jobs.” Another group said mandatory military service would do nothing to address the country’s most pressing problems such as the COVID-19 pandemic and rampant corruption.

The hard-nosed assessment from the leader of the country’s military establishment speaks volumes. But ironically, the most compelling reasons not to make military service mandatory came from Defense Secretary Delfin Lazaro, who said there was simply no need for such a program, which would be difficult to legislate and costly to implement. “There are huge hurdles in implementing this,” Lorenzana said, adding that the country was not on “war footing” and that there would be “little need for general

mobilization.” Funding would also be a problem, he said. “Training camps would need to be established all over the land, and manpower and funds must be allocated to accommodate the millions who will reach the age of 18 every year,” he said. Lorenzana also pointed to the “anticipated objections of those not inclined to serve in the military.” This hard-nosed assessment from the leader of the country’s military establishment speaks volumes, in contrast to Duterte-Carpio’s thinly disguised attempt to curry political favor from men and women in uniform. And South Korea and Israel? Surely Duterte-Carpio must know that both countries have very real, armed threats along their borders. South and North Korea have never formally ended their war, and Israel is surrounded by hostile states that wish to see it destroyed. We have no such external threats that would warrant general mobilization, unless you count our “friends” from Beijing, who surely must have given her father a bad back from all the kowtowing in the last six years.

The 2022 presidential campaign issues TR ADITIONALLY, presidential campaign issues are dominated by domestic problems such as peace and order, employment, education, and the economy. Foreign Affairs rarely played an impor tant par t– until now. This election year is one of the few instances where foreign affairs is a signif icant issue. This is obviously because of the West Philippine Sea problem. Even China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi somehow waded into our elections when he recently urged that whoever wins this year’s presidential elections, the next administration should maintain President Duter te’s close and friendly relations policy with China. That was an unusual thing to do on his par t. In addition, he also said that in future negotiations with us, China will not use its immense power to bully but would tr y to f ind just and long-lasting solutions to the WPS issue. T hese a re posit ive words by Ch i na i ntended perhaps as a ca r rot but nonetheless should be t a ken ser iously by us. It is possible t hat Ch i na is concer ned that wit h a new ad m i n ist rat ion, an abr upt t u r na rou nd i n ou r cou nt r y’s foreig n policy di rect ions m ig ht t a ke place. There is nothing wrong with maintaining friendly relations with that countr y. In fact, it is not only imperative but essential that we maintain cordial and friendly relations with China so long as the new administration puts the interest of the countr y f irst. The challenge is how to calibrate this relationship moving for ward. Should the next gover nment maintain lock, stock and bar rel the same approach as President Duter te did in his six years as president or will there be some changes?

her biases against Martial Law, one of the issues being raised against the Marcoses. Aside from Soho, her staff members Karl Anthony Camila and Mar-

The minor difference is in the process. VP Leni Robredo wants the 2016 Hague Arbitral r uling as the anchor in for ming alliances with other countries to push for our rights. Senator Lacson, as he has already stated in his past discussions on the subject, wants to strengthen our cur rent militar y alliances so that the countr y will be in a better position in any negotiations with China. For Senator Manny Pacquiao, he wants more negotiations. Manila Mayor Isko Moreno on the other hand wants to station troops on the places that we are claiming. It was unfor tunate that for mer Senator Bong Bong Marcos who is the cur rent frontr unner did not attend the TV presidential inter view, depriving the public from being able to evaluate his stand on many of the issues raised by the TV anchor especially with regard to the WPS issue. From what can be deduced from the answers of the four presidential

candidates who attended, there will be some changes in foreign policy directions. Before the Duter te administration, there were signed agreements between the United States and the Aquino gover nment which were all put on hold when President Duter te took off ice. Perhaps these agreements can now be greenlighted as par t of the changes that might be made. One of these agreements was the constr uction of facilities inside AFP militar y camps where militar y equipment can be prepositioned. If I remember cor rectly, seven areas were identif ied for development. The Balikatan joint militar y exercises which are badly needed by our troops can perhaps also now proceed in ear nest. All these were suspended by President Duter te. The issue of the WPS has always been the baby of the Depar tment of Foreign Affairs and, to a cer tain degree, of the Defense Depar tment. This time, however, even provincial gover nors are wading into the issue. We just read a couple of weeks ago the Gover nor of Cagayan Province objecting to the conduct of a joint live f ire exercise by the PH-US militar y in his province for fear of displeasing China. The gover nor was fearful that the Chinese will hold back on planned Chinese investments in his province. This is the f irst time this has ever happened. Even the impor tation of galunggong str uck a raw ner ve among some f isher men. It never occur red to them that the countr y will be impor ting f ish har vested from our own exclusive economic zone. Hopefully, whoever becomes president will be able to come up with a workable solution to deal with this problem successfully. And whatever it will be, that it will be a decision agreed upon unanimously by all senior leaders of the gover nment and not just by one person.

jory Pablo were found to be diehard Leni Robredo Supporters as betrayed by their profile pictures in their social media accounts which read “Let Leni Lead.”

To me, these justify BBM’s refusal to guest in Soho’s show. It was obvious he was being lured into a den filled with hungry lions. He was to be slaughtered.

Among our f ive serious presidential candidates, it was Senator Ping Lacson who f irst presented a comprehensive plan of action with regard to the WPS issue. No other candidate has discussed this issue before as thoroughly as Senator Lacson considering its impor tance. This was taken up in the hugely successful GMA TV Presidential inter views by TV anchor Jessica Soho. When asked what the four candidates who attended would do about the WPS issue if elected, the four were unanimous in wanting to be more aggressive in asser ting our rights and defending the ter ritorial integrity of the countr y.

What are the candidates’ plans on West Philippine Sea?

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher ManilaStandard

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Dozens missing after boat sinks off Florida— US Coast Guard

Saudis, Thais restore ties decades after big gem theft RIYADH—Saudi Arabia and Thailand have announced the resumption of diplomatic ties, after more than three decades of frozen relations linked to the theft of jewels from a Saudi palace. Thai-born janitor Kriangkrai Techamong stole $20 million worth of precious gems in 1989 from the home of a Saudi prince, triggering a spate of murders in Bangkok and a feud between the countries dubbed the “Blue Diamond Affair”. The two countries announced in a joint statement late on Tuesday “the full re-establishment of diplomatic relations” during a visit by Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha to Riyadh. “This historic step is the result of long-standing efforts at different levels to re-establish mutual confidence and friendly relations,” the joint statement added, following a meeting between the Thai premier and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The two countries agreed to appoint ambassadors in the near future. Saudi Airlines meanwhile announced that flights to Thailand would resume in May. The Thai government said the Saudis had flagged that they were seeking eight million skilled workers, including in hotels, healthcare and construction projects. Thailand indicated it had a ready supply of skilled workers to help fill the need, Rachada Dhanadirek, a Thai deputy government spokeswoman, said in a statement. Thailand had repeatedly sought to restore ties, in part to benefit its crucial tourism industry. Saudi Arabia had long accused Thai police of bungling their investigation into the jewel theft, with allegations that the stolen gems were snapped up by senior officers. Thai police later returned some of the jewels but Saudi officials claimed most were fakes, while the whereabouts of the most precious gem—a rare 50-carat blue diamond—remains unknown. AFP

BAGGED. A woman, using a plastic bag as a cover, walks outside the Beijing railway station in China on January 26 ahead of the biggest holiday of the year, the Lunar New Year, which ushers in the Year of the Tiger. AFP

Biden threatens Putin with bans over Ukraine W ASHINGTON—The United States on Tuesday warned Moscow of damaging sanctions, including measures personally targeting Vladimir Putin, if it moves ahead with an invasion of Ukraine, as Russian combat troops massing around thex pro-Western country launched new exercises. Tension appeared to be increasing, with the White House saying the risk of a Russian invasion of Ukraine “remains imminent.” Warning that such a move would prompt “enormous consequences” and even “change the world,” President Joe Biden said he would consider adding direct sanctions on Putin to a raft of measures being drawn up. “Yes. I would see that,” Biden said when asked by reporters in Washington about targeting the Russian president, whom opponents have long accused of

off would hit Putin’s “strategic ambitions to industrialize his economy quite hard,” the official said. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson echoed the threat, saying sanctions would be “heavier than anything we’ve ever done.” French President Emmanuel Macron said he would talk by telephone with Puholding gigantic, secret wealth. tin on Friday, seeking “clarification” on A senior US official laid out economic Moscow’s intentions. sanctions “with massive consequences” New Russian military exercises that go far beyond previous measures imA day after Washington said it was putplemented in 2014 after Russia invaded ting 8,500 US troops on alert for possible Ukraine’s Crimea region. deployment to bolster NATO forces in New measures would include restrictions Europe, the Russian military announced on exports of high-tech US equipment in it was conducting new drills involving the artificial intelligence, quantum comput- 6,000 troops near Ukraine and within the ing and aerospace sectors, the official told Crimea region. reporters on condition of anonymity. The drills included firing exercises with “What we’re talking about are so- fighter jets, bombers, anti-aircraft systems phisticated technologies that we de- and ships from the Black Sea and Caspian sign and produce,” and cutting them fleets, the defense ministry said.

Afghan aid linked to human rights

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SNOWED OVER. Cars are abandoned after being immobilized at Attiki Odos, Athens main ring road, early on January 25, following a heavy snowfall in Athens, Greece AFP Republic of the Philippines Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Kagawaran ng Pananahanang Pantao at Pagpapaunlad ng Kalunsuran National Capital Region

NOTICE Notice is hereby given that BRILLO DEL ESTE DEVELOPMENT CORP., (Owner/Developer), has filed with this Board an application for voluntary suspension/ cancellation of the License to Sell of EASTGLORY CENTER INTERNATIONAL located at Aseana Avenue corner Roxas Blvd., Brgy. Baclaran, Parañaque City, and specifically described as Lot Nos. 1 and 2 Pcs-00-012799 covered by TCT Nos. 010-2019000238 and 0102019000239 respectively. The project was issued Certificate of Registration No. 029597 and License to Sell No. 035192 dated 13 December 2019, respectively. All papers relative thereto shall upon request and payment of processing fee be available for inspection during business hours by any person having legal interest thereon. Absent any legal impediment the above-cited project is deemed cancelled and a cancellation in evidence thereof shall forthwith be issued after five (5) days from the last publication. Quezon City, Metro Manila, Jan. 11, 2022.

(MS-JAN. 27 & FEB. 3, 2022)

In Redondo’s case, the quorum of 65 deputies was completed by bolstering numbers with substitute lawmakers standing in.

Split

The crisis broke out last Friday when a group of Libre dissidents ignored an agreement with the Savior Party of Honduras (PSH), whose support was key to winning the November elections. The pact had pledged support for the PSH’s Redondo to be named president of Congress, but dissidents backed Calix, arguing that Congress should be led by the party with the most members—Libre has 50 deputies compared to just 10 for the Savior party. “I want to thank the Libre Party deputies, who obviously outnumber the PSH deputies... for being loyal to their party’s commitment,” Redondo said at his investiture. Castro accuses the dissidents of allying with the National Party of outgoing president Juan Orlando Hernandez to prevent the

Tonga takes in Australia ship despite risks

Twitter that he had “underlined the need for primary and secondary schools to be accessible for boys and girls throughout the country when the school year starts in March”. He was responding to a tweet from a NUKU’ALOFA, Tonga—A corospokesman for the Afghan foreign ministry navirus-hit Australian warship will hailing the EU’s commitment to “continue dock in Tonga Wednesday, delivering its humanitarian aid to Afghanistan”. desperately needed aid to the volcanoThe Taliban delegation, led by Foreign and-tsunami-struck nation under strict Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, met senior “no-contact” CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW protocols. BLACK French foreign ministry official Bertrand Tonga’s Health Minister Saia PiuLotholary, Britain’s special envoy Nigel kala said the crew of the HMAS AdeCasey, and members of the Norwegian laide would follow drastic health rules foreign ministry. to ensure the remote Pacific kingdom ‘Girls back in school’ remains one of the few places on the At the United Nations in New York, world still free of coronavirus. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr “The ship will berth and no contacts Store said the talks appeared to have will be made. Australians from the been “serious” and “genuine”. ship will unload their cargoes and sail “We made clear we want to see girls from port,” he told reporters. back in school in March, also those The Adelaide was deployed as part above 12. We want to see humanitarian of an international aid effort after the access,” he said. AFP January 15 eruption that generated huge tsunami waves and blanketed the island nation in toxic ash. The warship is carrying about 80 tonnes of relief supplies, including water, medical kits and engineering changes she promised in her dished a copy of the official gazette equipment. campaign, including the resti- where his appointment was anDespite all crew members testing tution of laws against impunity nounced, but the official responnegative before departure from Bristhat were rolled back by the pre- sible for the publication said the bane, officials in Canberra on Tuesday vious administration. announcement had been printed said 23 Covid-19 cases had been deRedondo in the session bran- without his permission. AFP tected on the vessel. Piukala said the number had increased to 29 by Wednesday. The ship’s 600-plus crew are fully vaccinated and the Australian Defence Force said Tuesday that the initial 23 patients were asymptomatic or only mildly affected. It said the ship has a 40-bed hospital, including operating theatres and a critical care ward. Piukala said contactless protocols were being applied to all relief supplies, including the HMAS Adelaide, meaning all goods offloaded from foreign planes or ships were left in isolation for three day before Tongans COUP PALS. Demonstrators gather in Ouagadougou to show support could handle them. to the military while holding an anti-France banner on January 25. In the Tonga closed its borders in early aftermath of the coup d’etat in Burkina Faso which overthrew President 2020 as the coronavirus pandemic Roch Marc Christian Kaboré, a demonstration in support of the putschists swept the globe. AFP is scheduled for Tuesday in Ouagadougou, where calm has returned after

OSLO—Western diplomats Tuesday linked humanitarian aid to Afghanistan to an improvement in human rights after meeting a Taliban delegation on a landmark visit to Europe. On the final day of the Taliban’s first official trip to Europe since returning to power in August, the fundamentalists held talks behind closed doors with several Western diplomats. The Taliban are seeking international recognition and financial aid. Afghanistan’s humanitarian situation has rapidly deteriorated since the group returned to power in August 2021, when international aid came to a sudden halt, worsening the plight of millions of people already suffering from hunger after several severe droughts. Western diplomats laid out what they expected from the Taliban during the talks. The European Union’s special envoy to Afghanistan, Tomas Niklasson, wrote on

Honduras crisis deepens ahead of prexy-elect’s swearing-in Tegucigalpa—Rival factions of Honduras’ newly elected congress held duelling first sessions Tuesday, as a split in president-elect Xiomara Castro’s party deepened two days before her swearing-in. Deputy Luis Redondo, who has the support of Castro and much of her leftist Libre party, took office as president of the Congress in the building that houses the legislative body. As promised in advance by the military high command, the session was attended by an escort of cadets from the armed forces in a show of recognition of Castro’s authority. In parallel and via video link, rebel deputy Jorge Calix was also installed as head of Congress by his own loyalist faction, including 20 dissident deputies from Libre and most members of the right-wing National Party (PN) and the Liberal Party, opponents of Castro. More than 70 of the 128 deputies in the legislative assembly took part in the virtual session.

MIAMI—The US Coast Guard has launched a search for 39 people reported missing when a boat capsized off the coast of Florida in a “suspected human smuggling venture.” The Coast Guard in Miami said Tuesday it received a report “from a good Samaritan” who rescued a man “clinging to a capsized vessel approximately 45 miles east of Fort Pierce Inlet.” The survivor said the boat left Bimini in the Bahamas on Saturday night, and had encountered rough weather before it capsized. “According to the survivor, no one was wearing a life jacket,” the statement said. “Coast Guard air and surface asset crews are actively searching for people in the water. This is a suspected human smuggling venture,” said the statement posted on Twitter. It added later that air and surface crews would “continue to search throughout the night” for the missing people. An image released by the Coast Guard showed the capsized vessel in the water with a man straddling the hull. The survivor was taken to a hospital to be treated for dehydration and sun exposure, the Coast Guard said. Human smugglers are known to use the Bahamas—a group of islands near the Florida coast—as a jumping-off point for transporting people, many from other Caribbean countries such as Haiti, to the United States. According to the International Organization for Migration, around 5,000 Haitian migrants work legally in the Bahamas, but 20,000 to 50,000 of their compatriots are in the country illegally. Bimini, the westernmost district of the Bahamas and its closest point to the mainland, is approximately 130 miles (217 kilometers) from Fort Pierce Inlet. On Friday, 32 people were rescued after a boat capsized about five miles west of Bimini in another suspected human smuggling attempt, according to the US Coast Guard and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force. AFP

days of tension. AFP

Business

Market declines slightly; SPNEC, Figaro advance S TOCKS fell slightly Wednesday as some investors opted to cash in on recent gains while others adopted a consolidation mode in the absence of a catalyst that could push the market higher.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index slipped 34.6 points, or 0.5 percent, to 7,253.61 on a value turnover of P6.4 billion. Losers beat gainers, 102 to 78, with 60 issues unchanged. PLDT Inc., the biggest telecommunications firm, declined 2.4 percent to P1,840, while Security Bank Corp., the eight-largest lender in terms of assets, dropped 2.4 percent to P105. Retail coffee chain Figaro Coffee Group Inc. jumped 18 percent to P0.92, while Solar Philippines Nueva Ecija Corp., which is building what is being touted as the biggest solar farm in Southeast Asia, rose 2.5 percent to P2.07 to extend a rally. Most Asian markets, meanwhile, rose Wednesday to provide some respite from the hefty selling at the start of the week, with focus on the end of the Federal Reserve’s policy meeting later in the day, when traders hope it will provide much-needed guidance on its plans for hiking interest rates. After a second day of high volatility in New York, Asia enjoyed a little more stability. Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, Wellington, Jakarta and Bangkok rose, though Tokyo, Seoul and Taipei edged down. Sydney and Mumbai were closed for holidays. After weeks of uncertainty, the US central bank will finally deliver its views on the state of the world’s top economy and how officials plan to tackle inflation that is now at a four-decade high without knocking its recovery off course. Minutes from its December gathering

pointed to a more hawkish tilt, with plans to speed up the taper of its vast bond-buying program, the selling of the assets it already has and three or four rate increases before the end of the year. While boss Jerome Powell pledged any tightening would be carefully calibrated, the prospect of higher borrowing costs has rattled markets across the world with most key indexes deep in the red from the start of the year, with Wall Street particularly hard hit. His comments after the meeting will be pored over for signs of the Fed’s plans, which most commentators believe include a first hike in March. Analysts were leaning positive ahead of the meeting. Frances Stacy, at Optimal Capital, told Bloomberg Television that Powell would try to take a less hawkish tone, saying policy would be guided by data while supply chains were improving and inflation showed signs of peaking. “I think what that’s going to do is potentially reassure markets that the Fed ‘put’ is ready, willing and able,” she said, referring to the bank’s past in backstopping markets. “That could cause some serious enthusiasm and a short squeeze.” Michael Hewson at CMC Markets added: “While no changes to policy are expected... markets will be looking for clues as to how concerned Fed officials are about headline (consumer inflation) and whether they might be leaning towards a potential 50 basis point hike in March, rather than the 25 that is currently priced. With AFP

Landmark laws awaiting Duterte’s signature to fortify his PH legacies PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte will leave a number of legacies when he steps down from office on June 30 this year, despite what his critics say. His administration built a number of jaw-dropping infrastructure projects, secured an investment grade rating of BBB+ for the Philippines, adopted an independent foreign policy, steadied the economy during the pandemic and shored up the country’s gross international reserves to near $110 billion. Mr. Duterrte, in his final six months at Malacañang Palace, now has the golden opportunity to sign several landmark laws that are expected to lift the economy from the impact of the pandemic and bolster further his legacies for the next generations. After signing Republic Act No. 11595, which amended the Retail Trade Liberalization Act of 2000 into law on December 10, 2021, RA 11641 which created the Department of Migrant Workers on December 30, 2021, and RA 11596 which prohibited child marriage on January 6, 2022, the president is expected to sign other critical laws, including the Public Service Act, Foreign Investment Act and the Vaporized Nicotine Products bill. Equally important and pending in the Senate is the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement that will boost economic growth and make the Philippines more competitive in the export market. Failure to get Senate’s approval will cause the Philippines to miss out on the opportunity to speed up the much-needed economic growth and recovery. The Department of Trade, sensing that the Philippines may miss the boat, has urged the Senate to endorse the RCEP Agreement that will make the Philippines more competitive in the export market. The deal took effect on January 1, 2022. The Public Service Act and Foreign Investment Act, meanwhile, are economic reforms that will attract more foreign capital to the Philippines and subsequently create jobs for millions of Filipinos. The VNP or the so-called vape bill, on the other hand, will dramatically reduce the smoking prevalence in the country by making available less harmful options to nearly 17 million Filipino smokers, according to consumer and medical organizations. Vape bill The vape bill deserves to finally become a law, having been tackled by Congress as early as 2013, to properly regulate vaporized nicotine products, which unlike cigarettes, do not involve combustion or burning. Scientific studies have confirmed that it is the smoke from combustion, and not nicotine, that is largely responsible for the harm caused by smoking on the human body. The bill, which aims to regulate the production, sale, use and promotion of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products (HTPs), was overwhelmingly approved by the House of Representatives and the Senate last year, as the measure puts in place strong provisions to address concerns over the possible misuse of these products by minors. Such provisions prohibit the sale to and use of vaporized nicotine products by minors. The vape bill passed by the Senate also bans the use of flavor descriptors that unduly appeal to minors. The House of Representatives approved its own version of the bill on third reading on May 25, 2021, while senators crossed party lines to pass Senate Bill No. 2239 on final reading on December 16, 2021. Both versions recognize the role of tobacco harm reduction, or the use of less harmful alternatives, to help smokers stop smoking that kills 8 million people a year. A study conducted by Dr. Rafael Castillo, former president of the Philippine Heart Association-Philippine College of Cardiology, and his colleagues concluded that HTPs contain less harmful chemicals than cigarettes. Dr. Castillo, a top cardiologist and the only Filipino sitting as trustee at the International Society of Hypertension, said the vape bill, once signed into law, “will become part of the legacy of the Duterte administration.” “It will be the country’s first comprehensive law that will regulate vapor products and provide strict rules on its use to protect minors. It also provides for detailed regulation so that the 17 million Filipino smokers can access these less harmful alternatives,” he says. E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 2022 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

IMF cuts global growth outlook amid Omicron hit WASHINGTON, United States— The Omicron variant of COVID-19 is creating an obstacle course for the global economy, which will slow growth this year, notably in the world’s two largest economies, the IMF said Tuesday. The Washington-based crisis lender cut its world GDP forecast for 2022 to 4.4 percent, half a point lower than the October estimate, due to the “impediments” caused by the latest outbreak, although those are expected to begin to fade in the second quarter of the year. “The global economy enters 2022

in a weaker position than previously expected,” the International Monetary Fund said in the quarterly update to its World Economic Outlook (WEO), adding that “the emergence of the Omicron variant in late November threatens to set back this tentative path to recovery.” The outlook remains beset by risks, including geopolitical tensions and a wave of price increases hitting consumers and businesses, that are expected to last longer than previously expected. After the solid recovery last year when the global economy grew an

estimated 5.9 percent, the IMF cut projections for nearly every country—with India a notable exception—but it was the downgrades to the United States and China that had the biggest impact. “These impediments are expected to weigh on growth in the first quarter of 2022,” the report said. “The negative impact is expected to fade starting in the second quarter, assuming that the global surge in Omicron infections abates and the virus does not mutate into new variants that require further mobility restrictions.” AFP

STARBUCKS’ UNION. Kyandra Espindola, a barista at one of Seattle’s Starbucks locations planning to unionize, speaks as employees Casey Moore and Gianna Reeve of Buffalo, New York, show their support at an evening rally at Cal Anderson Park in Seattle, Washington, January 25, 2022. They are joining a third Seattle Starbucks location that announced plans to unionize last month. AFP

GM to spend $7b in Michigan for electric vehicle shift NEW YORK, United States—General Motors announced Tuesday plans to invest $7 billion in the US state of Michigan as it converts asManilaplants and builds batteries sembly Standard for the transition TODAY to electric vehicles (EV). Calling the announcement “the largest single investment in GM history,” the auto giant said the push in its Midwestern home state would create 4,000 new jobs and retain 1,000 more positions. GM has previously projected that it will double revenues by 2030 as it ramps up EV production. The com-

pany expects 50 percent of its North American capacity to be EVs by that date. “Today we are taking the next step in our continuous work to establish GM’s EV leadership by making investments in our vertically integrated battery production in the US, and our North American EV production capacity,” said chief executive Mary Barra. “These investments also create opportunities in Michigan for us to bring our employees along on our transition to an all-electric future.” The biggest component is $4 bil-

Balance Sheet (Head Office and Branches) As of Decmber 31, 2021

lion to remake the Orion Assembly plant north of Detroit to enable production of new EVs such as the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. GM is also spending $2.6 billion to build a new battery plant in the city of Lansing, with the rest going to enhance to assembly plants in the area. The announcement was applauded by President Joe Biden, who said his administration “has been laser focused on making sure that America leads the manufacturing future of electric vehicles.” AFP

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

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 2022

Business

PSE INDEX CLOSING Wednesday, January 26, 2022 -34.6 PTS. 7,253.61

TOTAL VOLUME TOTAL TRADES TOTAL VALUE (IN PHP) ADVANCES DECLINES

1,497,807,262 87,573 6,414,178,049.55 78 102

UNCHANGED

60

F oreign E xchange R ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

51.3130

Japan

Yen

0.008783

0.4507

UK

Pound

1.350000

69.2726

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.128436

6.5904

Switzerland

Franc

1.089206

55.8904

Canada

Dollar

0.791954

40.6375

Singapore

Dollar

0.743882

38.1708

Australia

Dollar

0.714800

36.6785

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652942

136.1304

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266603

13.6802

Brunei

Dollar

0.741125

38.0293

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000070

0.0036

Thailand

Baht

0.030257

1.5526

UAE

Dirham

0.272287

13.9719

Euro

Euro

1.130300

57.9991

Korea

Won

0.000836

0.0429

China

Yuan

0.158085

8.1118

India

Rupee

0.013374

0.6863

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.238777

12.2524

New Zealand

Dollar

0.668600

34.3079

Taiwan

Dollar

0.036084

1.8516 Source: BSP

BOP surplus fell 92% to settle at $1.35b last year THE country posted a balance of payments surplus of $1.35 billion in 2021, or 92 percent lower than the $16.02-billion surplus recorded in 2020, amid the widening trade deficit and the government’s settlement of foreign debt, latest data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas show. It was also short of the $1.61-billion revised surplus target for 2021. The BSP said the BOP in December posted a surplus of $991 million, a reversal of the $123-million deficit in November, but down significantly from the $4.24-billion surplus a year ago. “In December 2021, the BOP surplus, which was lower than the $4.24-billion BOP surplus recorded in December 2020, reflected the structural inflows for the year, such as the BSP’s income from its investments abroad, personal remittances, trade in services, foreign direct investments, and net foreign borrowings by the national government. However, these inflows were moderated by a wider trade in goods deficit,” the BSP said. The BOP position reflects an increase in the final gross international reserves level to $108.79 billion as of end-December from $107.72 billion in November. The latest GIR level represents a more than adequate external liquidity buffer equivalent to 10.3 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income. It is also about 8.7 times the country’s short-term external debt based on original maturity and 5.8 times based on residual maturity. Michael Ricafort, chief economist of Rizal Commercial Banking Corp., said the BOP figures in December could be attributed to the seasonal increase in structural inflows of the country especially OFW remittances and conversion to pesos during the holiday season. Ricafort said other contributors for the surplus were “business process outsourcing revenues, foreign direct investments, proceeds of some foreign borrowings and the increase in various corporate fund-raising activities/ investment banking transactions in the pipeline especially from December 2021-January 2022 as part of preparations for further re-opening of the economy.” Julito G. Rada

ABOITIZ ASSISTANCE. Beneficiaries in Malabuyoc, Cebu receive relief packs from Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc., after Typhoon Odette devastated the Visayas region. RAFI has been working closely with the affected communities to alleviate the typhoon’s disastrous impact. It deployed teams to conduct rapid assessment and validation, and has been implementing a phased approach to its humanitarian relief operation plans to aid those affected by the typhoon. RAFI will soon shift its efforts towards recovery and rehabilitation phases by February.

IMF upgrades 2021 PH growth forecast to 4.6% T By Julito G. Rada

HE International Monetary Fund on Wednesday upgraded its 2021 growth projection for the Philippines to 4.6 percent from 3.2 percent, taking into account the strong performance in the third quarter despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

It updated the growth forecast ahead of the release of official gross domestic product data by the Philippine Statistics Authority on Thursday. The PSA earlier reported that the GDP grew 7.1 percent in the third quarter, which was later revised to 6.9 percent, on changes in data on financial and insurance activities, professional and

business services and real estate and ownership of dwellings. “The third-quarter 2021 gross domestic product growth rate was revised downward to 6.9 percent from the preliminary estimate of 7.1 percent. The major contributors to the downward revision were financial and insurance activities, from 6.4 percent to 3.9 percent; professional and business services, from 11.5 percent to 10.6 percent; and real estate and ownership of dwellings, from 4.7 percent to 3.8 percent,” the PSA said. The PSA also revised downward the gross national income growth in the third quarter to 2.7 percent from 2.8 percent. IMF resident representative to the Philippines Ragnar Gudmundsson said in an e-mailed message to Manila Standard that economic growth would continue to be strong this year despite the spread of the new COVID-19 variants. “Real GDP growth in 2021 is now projected at 4.6 percent and has been revised up from 3.2 percent in our Octo-

Agriculture dips 1.7% on reduced livestock output By Othel V. Campos

GRAB’S INITIATIVES. Grab Philippines provides tents for Noy’s Yellow Chicken whose store was damaged by Typhoon Odette to allow it to continue serving customers. The company rolled out key initiatives to help drive the ongoing recovery efforts to provide Cebuanos with greater access to basic necessities and support the recovery of local businesses and micro-entrepreneurs.

Provincial bus operators ask IATF to void rule on central terminals PROVINCIAL bus operators asked the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging and Infectious Diseases to rescind a resolution requiring bus firms to use the three designated central terminals in their operations to the provinces. Lawyer Vincent Rondaris, president of the Nagkakaisang Samahan ng mga Nangangasiwa ng Panlalawigang Bus ng Pilipinas, in a letter dated Dec. 7, 2021 but made available to media Wednesday, urged the IATF to allow bus operators to use their private terminals in Metro Manila, instead of the designated centralized terminals. The IATF issued Resolution 101 on Feb. 26, 2021, requiring provincial buses to load and unload passengers on des-

ber 2021 forecast. This upward revision largely reflects the better-than-expected outturn during the third quarter of 2021, which resulted from the successful implementation of more granular lockdowns and targeted mobility restrictions during the third wave of COVID 19,” Gudmundsson said. Gudmundsson also said despite the negative impact of Typhoon Odette on agricultural output in particular, the recovery was sustained in the fourth quarter of 2021, underpinned by a continued reduction in the infection rate, lesser mobility restrictions and a higher vaccination rate. The IMF expects the GDP growth to be faster this year at 6.3 percent. “The Philippine economy is still projected to grow at 6.3 percent in 2022. This is because the carryover from the upward growth revision in 2021 is expected to be canceled out by the rapid spread of the Omicron variant and new quarantine measures in the first quarter of 2022,” Gudmundsson said.

ignated integrated terminals, including the Sta. Rosa Integrated Terminal in Sta. Rosa, Laguna and the Paranaque Integrated Terminal Exchange in Paranaque City for provincial buses plying the southern and southwestern routes, and the North Luzon Exchange Terminal in Bocaue, Bulacan, which is adjacent to the Iglesia Ni Cristo-owned Philippine Arena for buses plying the northern Luzon routes. Under the IATF resolution, buses based in Metro Manila but bound for the provinces are required to use the integrated terminals to serve as its central hub for public transport and are prohibited to use their private terminals. Rondaris said the forcible use of the integrated terminals spawned what he described “percicious consequences.”

He said the resolution triggered the use of unfranchised vehicles like private vans and cars, or the so-called “colorum” vehicles, including the unfranchised ones that “do not follow loading capacity, charge unconscionable fares, and fail to comply with minimum health standards.” “In effect, colorum vans become unmonitored superspreaders of the virus,” Rondaris said. He said the use of central hubs also “created an unfair situation” for passengers bound to northern provinces because unlike the PITX, which is in Paranaque City, the NLET is Bocaue, Bulacan, or 30 kilometers from Metro Manila, resulting in inconvenience for passengers, who have to go first to Bocaue and get a tricycle ride.

AGRICULTURE and fisheries production dropped 1.7 percent in 2021 from the previous year, as the sector contended with livestock diseases and the devastation left by Typhoon Odette, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority show. The crops subsector managed to expand 2.3 percent over the 2020 performance, with major commodities like rice, corn, sugarcane, pineapple, coconut, banana and mango contributing to the growth. The subsector grossed P1 trillion in 2021, up from PP982 billion in 2020. Rice, the country’s staple, scored record harvest of 19.96 million metric tons, up 3.4 percent from the previous record of 19.29 million MT. “We would have easily breached the 20-million ton level had it not Typhoon Odette damaged more than 130,000 metric tons of palay,” said Agriculture Secretary William Dar. “Nonetheless, it shows that we are on the right track in our continuing efforts to increase the production of our major staples, in partnership with millions of our farmers, fishers, livestock and poultry raisers, local government units, private sector, and agri-fishery industry stakeholders,” Dar said. Corn production also hit a record output of 8.3 million MT in 2021, or 2.2 percent more than the 8.12 million MT yield in 2020. Other subsectors sustained a dismal output such as livestock with 170percent production drop, and poultry output which declined 0.3 percent. The fisheries subsector grew 0.1 percent. The livestock sector stymied by the persisting problem in the hogs subsector which continued to battle the Asian Swine Flu. Hogs production fell 20.8 percent in 2021.

NTC defends award of TV frequencies to Villar-led firm By Darwin G. Amojelar THE National Telecommunication Commission on Wednesday defended the award of TV frequencies previously held by ABS-CBN Corp. to a company controlled by the family of former Senator Manuel Villar. The NTC said in a statement it granted the frequencies to Advanced Media Broadcasting System Inc. as it was “the first applicant for an authority to install, operate and maintain a digital TV in Metro Manila as filed on Oct. 5, 2006.” It said ABMS received provisional authority after the determination of its legal, technical and financial qualification. A local think tank, however, called on the Villar family to waive the frequencies. “Like in many instances in this administration, what is legally and procedurally sound is not necessarily correct nor acceptable to the public,” said Terry Ridon, convenor of Infrawatch PH. The NTC granted ABMS a provisional authority to install, operate and maintain a digital terrestrial television broadcasting station in Metro Manila and Mega Manila using Channel 16 (482-488 Mhz) with digital ERP of 10 kW for 18 months. ABMSI also secured an authority to test broadcast analog TV Channel 2 from Jan. 6, 2022 until the analog technology is shut off in the country. The NTC said it also granted Swara Sug Media Corp. a provisional authority to operate DTTB services in Metro Manila/Mega Manila using Channel 43. Aliw Broadcasting Corp. secured a provisional authority to operate DTTB services in Metro Manila/ Mega Manila using Channel 23.

IN BRIEF Villar’s AllDay Marts launches 35th branch

ALLDAY Marts Inc., the grocery chain of the Villar Group, said Wednesday it recently opened its 35th branch in the country along Shaw Boulevard in Mandaluyong City. AllDay said in a disclosure to the stock exchange the opening of the new store is part of the company’s overall strategy to have 100 stores over the next four years. “We are pleased to build on our current pace as we continue to pursue expansion initiatives for AllDay Supermarket. The opening of AllDay Supermarket WCC not only adds to the convenience and promise of one of our busiest commercial developments in WCC, but is also a key addition to our Metro Manila presence,” AllDay chairman Manuel Villar Jr. said. “We believe that this is a timely addition to the AllValue portfolio, as we anticipate a surge in the need for essentials as we manage the latest challenges posed by the pandemic,” Villar said. AllDay vice chairman Camille Villar said the company remained committed to its strategy of leveraging established strengths of innovation and upgraded experiences. Jenniffer B. Austria

Phoenix’s Vietnam unit awarded ISO

PHOENIX Petroleum Philippines Inc. said Wednesday its Vietnam-based subsidiary obtained a certification on quality management given by the International Organization for Standardization. Certifying body Universal GmbH, through PQI Vietnam, granted Phoenix Gas Vietnam with the ISO Certificate 9001:2015, proving the company’s commitment and compliance to quality products and services. This covers PGV offices in Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, Cam-Ranh, Nha-Trang, and Go-Dau. The certification is the company’s first ISO nod, and the fourth one for the whole Phoenix group. “Since our establishment in 2019, Phoenix Gas Vietnam has been continuously working on improving our operations and services to ensure that we only provide world-class, safe, and high-quality products and services to our customers. As a young brand, we wanted to establish PGV as a credible and reliable brand in the Vietnamese market. Hence, this certification from ISO is a great achievement for us,” Phoenix Gas Vietnam general director Duong Nghia Dung said in a statement. Alena Mae S. Flores

KKR invests $45m in startup GrowSari

KKR, a leading global investment firm, agreed to invest $45 million, to lead the Series C funding round for GrowSari, a B2B ecommerce platform serving micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in the Philippines. KKR’s investment in GrowSari will support the company’s expansion into more regions across the Philippines and strengthen its financial services capabilities. Founded in 2016, GrowSari is a leading tech-enabled B2B platform that helps the Philippines’ small physical retail stores, including neighborhood retail shops (sari-sari stores), roadside and market shops (carinderia), and pharmacies, enhance their service levels and access a wider range of products and value-adding services. This allows the stores to provide local communities with more comprehensive offerings, including digital services. GrowSari is present in 220 municipalities in Luzon and offers over a hundred types of different services including making bill payments, telco reloads, and wallet top-ups, as well as procurement services for common retail goods and pharmaceutical medicines.

Mining special feature: Unity By Patricia Taculao

J

EWELRY, sturdy infrastructures, automobiles, and technology are only some of the comforts we enjoy today. Achieving these luxuries wouldn’t have been possible without the help of research and the acquisition of the needed materials through mining.

Millions of years have passed since humans discovered mining and used it to their benefit. Early settlers tapped into the geology of their environment to craft weapons and tools to aid them in their daily activities. Frequent use of stone tools and exposure to their sources eventually resulted in advancements that allowed them to harness natural resources to create houses, ornaments, currencies, and more. As civilizations began to grow, so did the demand for ore, resulting in the start of the mining industry. The earliest known mine was a coal mine located in southern Africa some 40,000 to 20,000 years ago. But as beneficial as mining is to society, it only became a significant industry about 10,000 to 7,000 years ago, when more advanced civilizations surfaced. During those times, the most abundant metal was copper. But gold, silver, and mercury were also mined and prized for their versatility and use in cosmetics, accessories, and building. As the mining industry grew, ores like iron were discovered and used. Applying fire to mined materials also became a relevant technological breakthrough in the advancement of civilizations. Today, mining is a crucial industry in every country. But aside from providing materials to other industries, mining also plays a significant role in the economy. A positive impact on economies Historically, mining has been a catalyst for economies everywhere. The presence of raw materials in select areas paved the way for trading opportunities between two countries or regions. That scenario remains steadfast today as countries from across the globe continue to engage in business deals that involve mined materials. The continuous exchange between two economies, sometimes more, brings more money that circulates in markets and sustains other industries. Several countries witnessed an increase in their gross domestic products by some percent from the mining industry. Some examples of economies that grew because of the mining industry include those from countries like Chile, Peru, Botswana, Ghana, Mali, and Papua New Guinea, among others. Continuously trading mined minerals also provides countries with a steady supply of materials that they can use to build new infrastructures, advance their technology, or invest in research. Such activities also contribute to the growth of the economy and progressing society. Workers also benefit from the mining industry. Unemployment is among the most pressing issues in the world and the mining industry provides a solution. As it remains an essential industry in countries everywhere, mining companies and related businesses generate jobs that keep the population employed and earning money.

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Revitalizing PH economy through sustainable mining For years, commercial-scale mining employed more than 2 million workers who also gained relevant skills inside the mining industry or otherwise. On the other hand, small-scale mining operations provide a livelihood to around 13 million workers and their families in countries such as Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Madagascar, Mozambique, Tanzania, and Indonesia. During the COVID-19 pandemic struck, the mining industry was among those that were kept open because they were deemed essential by governments across the globe. Their continued operations kept economies

running despite the challenging times. In the Philippines, the mining sector accounted for P102.3 billion, equivalent to 0.6% of gross domestic product (GDP) growth in 2020, according to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB). According to the MGB, the value of metallic mineral production, including gold, nickel ore, mixed nickel-cobalt sulfide, scandium oxalate, chromite, and iron hit P132.69 billion, while the total value of exported minerals, mineral products, and non-metallic mineral manufacture amounted to $5.2 billion. Working on sustainability Although mining remains a relevant in-

dustry because of its impact on economies around the world, it also raises an issue on sustainability, especially now when more people are becoming deeply interested in environmental awareness. Their initiatives and calls to action captured the attention of mining companies around the world, who are now working on their sustainability efforts. Due to its involvement with natural resources, mining operations can’t help but chip away at a good chunk of the earth to find precious metals. Some of these operations aren’t responsible, thus causing significant harm to the environment and, in turn,

to the people living nearby mining sites. Many natives have been displaced from their homes due to mining activities. Numerous mining companies, either commercial or small-scale, began to see the negative effects of irresponsible operations. No longer can they turn a blind eye to the harm they’re causing to the environment and the people around them, thus prompting them to adopt more sustainable methods. Some initiatives that several mining companies have begun include reducing their energy and water consumption, limiting waste production, and preventing on-site pollution among others.

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Sports

THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 2022

Swiatek, Collins beat heat to reach semis; Medvedev wins MELBOURNE—Danielle Collins and Iga Swiatek will meet in the Australian Open semi-finals after vastly contrasting wins in the last eight on Wednesday. Collins swept past unseeded Alize Cornet in just 88 minutes to match her run to the last four in 2019. But seventh seed Swiatek had to fight back from a set down and a break down against unseeded Estonian Kaia Kanepi before finally coming out on top 4-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-3 after a marathon 3hr 1min in energy-sapping heat on Rod Laver Arena. Earlier, Collins shattered French veteran Cornet’s dream of making a first Grand Slam semi-final. As temperatures nudged 35 Celsius (95 Fahrenheit), the American 27th seed came through 7-5, 6-1 to continue her resurgence after surgery last year. “It feels incredible, especially after some of the health challenges that I have had,” said Collins, 28, who had “scary” surgery for endometriosis in April last year then tore her abdomen at the French Open. “To be able to get back to this level and be able to compete the way I have and be as physical as I have has been so rewarding.” Collins won her maiden WTA titles at San Jose and Palermo after recuperating and has now matched her 2019 run at Melbourne Park to reach her second Slam semi-final. There she will meet the 20-year-old Swiatek, who proved too dogged as she outlasted Kanepi, who is 16 years her senior. “I had so many break points (nine) in the first set that I felt like I missed my chances,” said Swiatek, the 2020 French Open champion. “I was pretty annoyed and I should have been focused on the next point. And that’s what I did in the second set.” Top seed Ashleigh Barty will face unseeded American Madison Keys in the other last-four clash on Thursday for a place in Saturday’s final. - Men’s favourite Later men’s title favourite Daniil Medvedev will need to keep his cool to reach the semi-finals after a mini-meltdown in the previous round. Should the Russian second seed get past young Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in the night match on Rod Laver Arena, the prize could be a last-four showdown with fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas. The men’s US Open champion Medvedev knows he needs to keep a lid on

Poland’s Iga Swiatek reacts after winning against Estonia’s Kaia Kanepi during their women’s singles quarter-final match on Day 10 of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne. Swiatek will face in the semifinals American Danielle Collins (inset), who beat France’s Alize Cornet. AFP

Vargas chosen as mandatory WBC challenger to Magsayo T By Randy Caluag

HE World Boxing Council has identified Mexican Rey Vargas as the mandatory challenger to newly crowned featherweight champion Mark Magsayo.

Boxingscene.com reported that WBC president a long time to recuperate from a leg injury. In a report by DAZN News, WBC explained that Mauricio Sulaiman relayed the order through another WBC official during the traditional Tuesday (US Magsayo will not have an optional fight because he time) meeting with the boxing media, where Vargas and Magsayo were also present. Magsayo is coming off a 12-round majority decision win over American Gary Russell Jr. on Sunday in New Jersey to improve his unblemished record to 25 wins (16 KOs) and become the fifth Filipino world titleholder. What makes Vargas a dangerous opponent is his long reach as a 5’11” fighter. He towers above his opponents and fights intelligently as a ward of legendary mentor Nacho Beristain. Vargas, who has a clean record of 36-0 (22 knockouts), has earned the top contender slot since winning over compatriot Leonardo Baez in November last year as a first-time featherweight. He was the super bantamweight (122 lbs) champion from 2017 to 2020 and last defended the crown in July 2019 against Tomoki Kameda of Japan. He was out for Rey Vargas (wbcboxing)

assumed the obligations of the previous champion, Russell, who was supposed to fight Vargas before the Filipino came into the picture. “I am very happy that the WBC reiterated my position as a title challenger. I feel very happy,” said Vargas as quoted by DAZN. “Magsayo is a wider fighter, but he is smarter. Yes, he has more strength than Gary Russell, but Magsayo showed a lot of intelligence in this fight.” The WBC official website, wbcboxing.com, had teased the Magsayo-Vargas duel in their “Coffee Tuesdays” conference and asked Vargas what he thinks of the Filipino champion as an opponent. Vargas replied: “It won`t be easy,” but regarding the performance he saw against Gary, he considers that he has many available resources, with which to dethrone the Filipino. “A perfect strategy is needed.” If the Magsayo-Vargas pushes through, it will also be a battle between two legendary boxing trainers Beristain and Freddie Roach. Beristain said in the same meeting that the “fight between Mark and Rey will be a great show because both are boxers who expend everything, adding that Rey is a boxer who works very hard, with a lot of discipline plus total focus.” Roach is Magsayo’s trainer under the MP Boxing Promotions, owned by eight-world division champion Manny Pacquiao.

POC general assembly affirms Juico’s persona non grata status THE Philippine Olympic Committee ratified the executive board’s early decision against Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association president Philip Ella Juico, officially declaring him persona non grata during the first General Assembly of the year on Wednesday at the Grandmaster Hotel in Tagaytay City. A total of 54 regular national sports associations attended the GA and then 36 voted in the affirmative, including

athletes’ commission member and Tokyo Olympics gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz of weightlifting and swimmer Jessie Lacuna to Juico’s persona non grata’s tag. They favored the executive board’s decision on the complaint filed by Olympic pole vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena against Juico for allegedly harassing a world-class Filipino athlete by making malicious public accusations against him last November.

Philip Ella Juico

Rep. Abraham Tolentino

Eleven NSAs were a “no vote,” meaning they didn’t sign the notion, while five NSAs, led by weightlifting president Monico Puentevella, wushu, squash, athletics Juico and hockey opposed the motion. Three others—International Olympic Committee Representative to the Philippines Mikee Cojuangco Jaworski, dancesports and netball—abstained. “We are just following the procedure and there’s nothing personal here against Mr. Juico, and anytime EJ [Obiena] and Juico agreed or EJ withdraws his complaint, the GA can revisit the executive board’s decision,” POC president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino told an online news conference after the GA. Tolentino reiterated that Juico will stay as athletics president “for other matters. but no longer recognized by the POC,” clarifying that PATAFA “could still function as NSA under the national Olympic committee.” “He is still the PATAFA president for other matters without recognizing him, but they still have their vice president and secretary general who can attend POC activities,” Tolentino said, noting that the GA doesn’t need a full majority vote since they are not suspending or ousting Juico as PATAFA president. “We do not need a ¾ or 2/3 vote because we’re not ousting and suspending him as president. We are only declaring him as persona non grata but still, 36 is 2/3 votes of the POC,” he explained. Diaz said she and Lacuna expressed the vote of the Athletes’ Commission.

PH lady booters face Indonesians, eye quarterfinals By Peter Atencio STAYING safe and healthy is now the primary concern of the Philippine national women’s football team. The undermanned Filipina booters are now carefully preparing for their coming match today with winless Indonesia under a bubble type of setup at the Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune, India. Four members of the delegation, including two players, are in isolation after testing positive for COVID-19. And this is keeping the rest of the squad on their on toes in the Asian Football Confederation Women’s Asian Cup 2022. “We’re trying to stay as safe as possible and trying to keep our bubble tight

and secure as we can, hydrated and doing all the crucial things that we need to do,” said Fil-American booter Hali Long, who has been the heart and soul of the Malditas’ defense since the beginning of their campaign. The squad, which has kept its moniker Malditas for now despite clamors to change it, will meet Indonesia in its final Group B assignment at 10 p.m. (Manila time). The Malditas are looking for a second win that will put them in the quarterfinal round with Group A topnotcher Australia. “It’s sacrifice that we need to do, staying safe, healthy and protected, to get where we need to be,” added the 5’8” Long in a Zoom interview with Filipino scribes.

The other day, host India could not field a complete team and withdrew from the tournament after members of their roster were tested positive for Covid-19. Long said the team will play with confidence despite losing to Australia, 0-4, saying that they have proven themselves defensively against the world no. 11 team. Injuries have also hobbled the team, with goalies Inna Palacios and Olivia McDaniel unable to play in their tiff with Australia, and with substitute Kiara Fontanilla doing an impressive job in their absence. Another injured teammate Katrina Guilliou had to be fielded late in the game. “We all won our little battles in the field. And that went well for the entire team. We all won our little battles when

we needed to, even if we didn’t win that moment specifically,” said Long, who has been with the national squad since 2016. The Matildas, who won their second straight match, need to beat Thailand at 10 p.m. today in Mumbai to formally enter the quarterfinals. The Aussies could go into a playoff with the leader of Group C, which could either be Japan or South Korea. Their mindset going into their encounter with Indonesia has not changed, according to Long, and that is to remain focused on a win and a way out of Group B. “It does not matter the caliber of the team we are facing. We’re going to play with our hearts out and integrity in it,” she said.

Olsim raring to take on Radzuan anew JENELYN Olsim will always be a go-getter through and through. And with another opportunity arising, the Team Lakay rising star is seizing the opportunity as she steps back inside the ONE Circle at ONE: BAD BLOOD on 11 February in Singapore. Olsim reacquaints herself with Jihin “Shadow Cat” Radzuan in a women’s atomweight fight that is three months in the making. “I’m super back in action this February and I’m excited to fight again,” she said. The two fighters were supposed to fight at ONE: NEXTGEN II last November in an alternate bout in the ONE Women’s Atomweight World Grand Prix until changes had to be made. Olsim stepped up in place of the injured Itsuki “Android 18” Hirata in the Grand Prix semifinal, as she valiantly fought Ritu “The Indian Tigress” Phogat on short notice, losing via unanimous decision. The changes, unfortunately, left Radzuan without a match. Curiously, Olsim once again steps in the place of Hirata, who was originally intended to meet Radzuan in this card but had to pull out due to injuries. It’s a fact that surprised but also amused the Filipina, who said, “I had no idea that it was Itsuki who I will be replacing again. Maybe it’s a fortunate coincidence? Anyhow, I think she’s a great fighter and I wish her the best.” Olsim’s focus, however, is on Radzuan now as she hopes to put into work the lessons she got from her last fight against Phogat in her quest to become a more complete fighter. “My fight with Ritu taught me to be more focused, that I need to have that presence of mind and to execute the game plan in actuality. On the training aspect, nothing has changed. All I have to do now is to execute,” she said.

Entertainment

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 2022

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Intense action, more adventure in Agimat ng Agila’s second flight ON SATURDAY, Jan. 29, viewers will witness the continuation of Agimat ng Agila, the fantasy series directed by Rico Gutierrez. I n J u l y l a s t y e a r, t h e series ended with a gripping battle between the bearers of the Agila a n d t h e B a k u n a w a ’s m y s t i c powers. Now, the story continues with the adventures and misadventures of Ramon as “Bong” Revilla, Jr. Major Gabriel Labrador who is the bearer of the powers of an enchanted eagle who

Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr. (left) in ‘Agimat ng Agila’ with new co-star Rabiya Mateo

sets off on various missions to battle evil forces and protect the environment. Returning to the series is the stellar roster of cast headlined by special guest Sanya Lopez as Maya Lagman, Elizabeth Oropesa as Nanay Berta, and Benjie Paras as Sergeant Wes Dimanahan together with new cast members Gardo Versoza as Zeus Limjoco, Betong Sumaya as Sergeant Art, Kim de Leon as Jumong, Lia Salvador as Sharmaine, Sandro Muhlach as Archie, Shermaine Santiago as Carol Llamanzares, and Rabiya Mateo as Agent Asha Raj. During the Agimat ng Agilas’s

virtual press junket, Revilla said that he’s pleasantly surprised by the public’s reception of the series’ first season. “We know how good the production was and yet I’m still surprised and happy with the way it was received by the viewers,” he said. He added that they’re all grateful to everyone who are anticipating the upcoming season, “Nakakataba ng puso marinig ang feedback ng mga manonood na sinasabi sa akin na sobrang ganda raw ng Agimat, at nabitin sila, at hinihintay na nila ang book 2.” After a successful first season last year, the story continues in a

brand-new light with more twists and exciting characters. Bong promises that they have intensely prepared for actionpacked scenes that viewers loved from the first season, “I’m more prepared physically in book 2. I think the viewers prefer more action and that’s what we’re going to give them. If they liked book 1, I’m sure that they will like the story and the actions in book 2 even more. They will not get disappointed.” Agimat ng Agila Book 2 premieres at 7:15 p.m. on GMA. Viewers abroad can catch it on the network’s international channel, GMA Pinoy TV.

Ylona Garcia guns

for an international career

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OPM fans can experience Ben & Ben’s first online concert through Smart’s GigaPlayApp.

Reliving the magic of Ben&Ben’s ‘Kuwaderno’ concert LEADING mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. brings OPM fans closer to Filipino folkrock band Ben&Ben’s first online concert, Kuwaderno, on Smart GigaPlay beg. Jan. 29. In a recent grand concert streamed live from the Smart Araneta Coliseum, the popular band performed 18 songs from its latest album, Pebble House Vol. 1: Kuwaderno, featuring singles “Upuan,” “Lunod” with Zild and juan karlos, “Kayumanggi,” and more. The concert—specifically staged to entertain Ben&Ben’s legions of ‘Liwanag’ supporters at the comforts of their homes—delivered a memorable livestream experience last December when the event was first aired on KTX. Now, Smart subscribers who are fans of 2021’s most-streamed OPM act can catch Paolo Guico (acoustic guitars and vocals), Poch Barretto (electric guitars), Pat Lasaten (keyboards), Keifer Cabugao (violins), Agnes Reoma (bass), Toni Muñoz (percussions),

Miguel Guico (acoustic guitars and vocals), Jam Villanueva (drums), and Andrew de Pano (percussions) all over again via GigaPlay. Relive the entire “Kuwaderno” experience anytime on the GigaPlay App which provides virtual frontrow seats to the band’s latest live performance. To experience Ben & Ben’s acclaimed musical synergy, Smart subscribers only need to download the GigaPlay App on their smartphone via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and then stream “Kuwaderno” at no extra cost. GigaPlay has been revolutionizing the viewing habits of Smart users with a suite of entertainment, music, and sports content. Apart from Kuwaderno, the GigaPlay App houses the latest Korean dramas aired 24 hours after Korea broadcast, international music events and awards shows, local pay-per-view movies, and the most extensive streaming catalogue of basketball games from local to world-famous basketball leagues.

US rapper Cardi B wins defamation lawsuit vs gossip blogger AMERICAN rapper and songwriter Cardi B has won some $4 million in a libel lawsuit in the United States against a celebrity gossip blogger, who posted claims that the superstar was a “prostitute” who had herpes and used cocaine. In 2019 the 29-year-old rapper, born Belcalis Almanzar, had sued the YouTuber Tasha K for posting “malicious rumors” and “degrading and harassing” claims in some 20 videos that referred to the famous artist, according to the lawsuit filed in Georgia’s northern district. Cardi B was awarded roughly $2.75 million — including punitive damages and medical expenses — and additionally approximately $1.3 million over the legal fees, according to court filings over Monday and Tuesday. The YouTuber, born Latasha Kebe, made claims including that the rapper had oral herpes and that her children would be born with intellectual disabilities, assertions that brought her millions of views Rapper and songwriter Cardi B

on YouTube. According to the lawsuit, these caused Cardi B to “suffer embarrassment, humiliation, mental anguish, and emotional distress.” They also brought damage to her “reputation and character within her profession and industry, including but not limited to among her fans and with prospective business relations.” A rapper from the Bronx, Cardi B soared to fame with hits including “Bodak Yellow,” “I Like It” and “Money.” The Grammy winner separately is facing ongoing charges in Queens over a strip club brawl case. AFP

HO entertains Ylona Garcia nowadays?”

That was my break-theice question to the 19-yearold singer and songwriter during a virtual junket for her single “Entertain Me,” a new song launched in partnership with popular video game Valorant. “In an amazing way?” she responded with another question. “Besides books and movies,” she paused with a laugh, “My family and my fans. I’m very grateful that my family is here so that’s quite entertaining. With my fans, although I don’t get to see them in person, they’ve been entertaining me a lot. They’re very supportive and very kind. And there are many people joining the fandom, which I find really cool.” Speaking to Manila Standard Entertainment, Ylona shared that she has moved to the United States. She is staying now in Los Angeles for good. And she admitted that it feels like she’s starting again from scratch. “I’m starting a career here. Well, it’s always been my dream to launch an international career,” Ylona shared. In 2020, at the height of the pandemic, Ylona went back to her hometown in Australia to live with her parents. At one point, she went viral on social media after posting a photo where she shared in the caption that she had started working in fast food. That prompted fans to think that she’s decided to leave her showbiz career behind. “It sounds interesting but it’s been my dream, too, to work there,” she admitted. Now in LA, Ylona reiterates that her goal is to make music that global audiences can appreciate. True enough, she’s determined to achieve this goal by working with key people who can help her launch an international career Hot on the heels of her sensational performance at the Head in the Clouds festival, Ylona opened the new year with a big bang with her much-anticipated brand new single, “Entertain Me” via Paradise Rising/88rising Music. Produced by DNA and written by Ylona herself together with David Musumeci and Antonio Egizii, “Entertain Me” is an anthemic synth-pop number about female empowerment. Characterized by a soaring backbeat and an infectious Ylona in a scene from the music chorus, the song finds Ylona asserting video for her latest single, ‘Entertain her independence and dispelling Me.’

the notion that she can be fooled and controlled by anyone. “This song was created during lockdown back in Australia. To be specific, it was created Feb. 10, 2021, at 7:54 p.m. Basically I was blessed to catch up with my childhood friends in Sydney. And catching up with them inspired me to write the song,” she recalled. “I was 18 when I wrote the song. We’re all of the age. And I feel that it’s the time that we’re supposed to be adults, feeling independent, feeling strong but we didn’t feel like that at all, which is really sad, therefore, I ended up writing the song,” she carried on. Coinciding with the single’s release is the launch of a new playable character in Riot Games’ wildly-popular video game, Valorant. The new character named Neon, who in teasers has been described as hailing from Manila, speaks Tagalog language and is described as one of the youngest agents “who can outpace the rest of the roster, shocking the competition, and sliding straight into the fight.” The launch of the character Neon perfectly complements the empowered persona Ylona exudes in “Entertain Me.” The single’s release and official lyric video premiere will coincide with Valorant’s trailer launch with sync on Jan. 5 while the music video of “Entertain Me’ will drop soon. “It was nice to put myself and be like in a sort of character when I performed ‘Entertain Me.’ When I made that song, I felt really, really cool. And Valorant thought that would be a great match to Neon. So, I felt very, very honored by that. But Neon is very cool. Very opposite to how I feel about myself sometimes, but it’s okay. She’s somebody that I want to be,” she said. Ylona currently has over 4.1 million followers on Instagram and nearly 1 million followers on TikTok in addition to over 265,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and 150,000 subscribers on her YouTube channel. Ylona Garcia’s music is released by 88rising’s sister label Paradise Rising, which was launched in 2020 to help bring Filipino music to the forefront of culture. Ylona Garcia moved to Los Angeles in the United States for good.

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 2022

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T’S BEEN more than two years of battling COVID-19, and for most of us, if not all, it’s been the toughest time of our lives. Perhaps one silver lining to consider is that apart from courage amidst uncertainties, the pandemic has also revealed the heroes among us. Top of mind are the health workers who have been risking their well-being to save lives. They are overworked, many of them are undercompensated, yet they keep going. White Coat Manila, the leading brand of scrub suits and medical coats in the country, released a video reflecting the daily struggles of these individuals. It may be viewed on YouTube through this link: https://youtu.be/hugfw6SMOAo. In this campaign, four medical frontliners were asked: What keeps you going and why do you do what you do despite the challenges and difficulties? “What moves me is the faith that everything happens for a reason. Knowing that love knows no limits. And in this lifetime, I am grateful to make a difference no matter how small,” shares Dr. Ging Zamora, Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. For oral surgeon, Dr. Betsy Marigomen, “we can’t heal the world in one day, but we can begin with an ear that listens, a heart that sympathizes, and a hand that mends. In a broken world, kindness is what moves me.” If we are to listen intently to these medical frontlines, they are telling us to go back to who and what we truly stand for in life. We can get exhausted from our jobs and callings, but why do we do it in the first place? Ophthalmologist Dr. Kara Gozali shares, “whenever you’re feeling tired or exhausted, as cliché as it may sound, remind yourself of why you started in the first place. Find something you’re excited to wake up to even on your most toxic days. Remind yourself that there is nowhere else you’d rather be because where you are feels like home. On most days, we just need a little reminder of why we love what we do.” Dermatologist Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas, on the other hand, says that she takes inspiration from a lot of sources: “I take inspiration and strength from my patients, staff, and colleagues, as well as allied health professionals, and most especially my family. I’m driven to set a good example for my children and want to contribute to society by improving my patients’ quality of life and making the world a better place to be in.”

Dr. Betsy Marigomen specializes in oral surgery

Dr. Ging Zamora (right) is moved by her faith. She is seen in the photo with her husband Dr. Sonny Abrahan IV.

Life

Dr. Kara Gozali (left) and Dr. Mark Agas are moved by their love for the work they do.

What keeps health workers going despite challenges “We wanted to open the conversation on what inspires and motivates our superhero frontliners to continue to suit up and show up during this ongoing pandemic. We want our medical professionals to know that we see them and that we feel them. Being a medical professional myself, I understand the challenges they go through on a personal level,” says Dr. Nikki Chan-Ongkingco, co-founder of White Coat Manila. For White Coat Manila, being a partner to medical frontliners by understanding their needs and how they can provide support through their top-of-the-line MoveTech scrub suits. It makes sense because for these on-the-go frontliners, they want to be able to move around and perform their duties day in and day out, and what better way to do this if they know that their medical wear is the least of their worries. Created by White Coat Manila to disrupt the antiquated medical wear clothing industry, MoveTech scrub suits are ultra-lightweight, water-resistant,

Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas, dermatology and aesthetics

crease-resistant, anti-microbial Ruco-Bac-coated, and can 4-way stretch. Definitely, a far cry from the usual twill or cotton blended with polyester sets that are commonly available. The ultra-lightweight property of MoveTech scrubs addresses the need for comfortable garments under layers of medical-grade PPEs sometimes worn for up to 72 hours. The water-resistant property comes in handy when liquids unintentionally spill, so the fronliners can continue with their work without the interruption of changing clothes. The crease-resistant property makes it possible to look fresh and presentable through a long shift. The anti-microbial Ruco-Baccoating inhibits the growth of bacteria, yeast, algae, and other microorganisms that cause odor and fabric damage. So the coating is for odor protection as well as to increase the durability of the scrubs. The 4-way stretch property provides total ease of movement much needed especially during surgery settings. MoveTech scrubs are flattering across all body types and genders and are available in classic and trendy

styles that you can even label them as medical leisure clothing. There are jogger pants and tops with different necklines. All designs have multiple functional pockets. Their sizes currently run from XS to XL, with 2XL soon to be released. Premium made-to-measure service can also be arranged. “We’d like MoveTech scrubs to be our medical frontliners’ ally in conquering their day,” Dr. Ongkingco states. White Coat Manila’s products are 100 percent proudly Filipino-sewn. “Employing skilled local sewers and providing other ancillary jobs through our growing brand is our little way of taking part in nationbuilding and in contributing to the county’s efforts to recover from the pandemic,” she closes. To see the full collection of MoveTech scrub suits, visit www.whitecoatmanila.com. For more information, follow @whitecoatmanila on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. For feedback, you may reach the author at joba. botana@gmail.com.

Health workers at Makati Medical Center wear White Coat Manila’s Movetech

Managing diabetes complications syndrome, (obesity with increased blood pressure, blood sugar, and high cholesterol). For someone with DIABETES is not just about blood risk factors, cardiovascular disease sugar, it’s a heart disease. can still be avoided with primary In a recent discussion entitled prevention this involves complete “Heart of the Matter: Minimizing lifestyle change together with propDisease Risk to Optimize Diabetes er medication. Care” organized by Zuellig Pharma The final phase may seem quite Corporation, cardiologist Dr. Jorge Recent data showed that one Sison, explained that diabetes pa- in 14 Filipino adults lives with alarming because it pertains to those who have suffered from corotients are just as vulnerable to cardio- diabetes. nary artery diseases like heart attack, heart failure, vascular disease (CVD). According to the latest report released by the and other cardiovascular complications. Dr. Sison World Health Organization, 422 million people calls it secondary prevention, “the main focus here worldwide have diabetes. The cases are rapidly in- is to prevent recurrence, we prevent the heart attack creasing in low-middle income countries, “like the from happening again with medication and lifestyle change.” Philippines,” Dr. Jorge said. Aside from Cardiovascular disease, diabetes can Recent data from the International Diabetes Federation also showed that one in 14 Filipino adults also damage kidney blood vessels, which can eventually lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Delives with the chronic health condition. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading spite the possible complications, Dr. Sison is opticause of death worldwide and 85 percent of all mistic that with the right approach it can be properly deaths are due to heart attack and stroke. CVD is managed. One way to manage complications is to raise also the most common complication of diabetes. The risk level for CVD is the same for patients with awareness about the disease. Zuellig Pharma Cordiabetes and those with a history of myocardial in- poration (ZPC), through its commercialization arm, ZP Therapeutics, plans to hold educational discusfarction or heart attack. Proper diet and exercise can always keep the disease sions and academic opportunities to strengthen at bay. And to fully understand the risks and complica- awareness on significant health topics. “We believe that raising awareness about the distions of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, Dr. Sison ease and the ways we can manage its complications discussed several levels of prevention. If one is able to maintain proper weight, avoid is the first step in making diabetes care more accessmoking, and engage in regular physical activ- sible. Specifically, we advocate for primary CV preity then primordial prevention of the disease is vention, and will continue to work towards ramping achieved. The risk factors were inhibited because up our education efforts on this issue to help provide patient-centered diabetes care in the country,” said prior measures were performed. Unfortunately, diet and exercise are not always Dr. Philip Nakpil, Medical Director of ZP Theraprioritized especially during this pandemic. People peutics. “Our advocacy aligns well with the gradual tranare more anxious and so they are eating too much junk food. Because of the lockdown, physical move- sition to preventive care. Working with key players ment is limited and most of them are just glued to in the country’s healthcare ecosystem, we envision their gadget all day. Over time, the lack of exercise helping more Filipinos living with diabetes take a and unhealthy eating can lead to risk factors like di- more proactive approach in managing their condiabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, or metabolic tion,” he added. By Tet Defensor

Listen to your family and friends when they’re speaking.

Join a gym or a fitness group to meet new friends.

Five tips for a social support system in the pandemic SOCIAL distancing protocols and stay-at-home orders may affect one’s social connections. However, it is crucial to have a social support network of families, friends, and peers to help us get through trying times, especially amid the challenges brought by the pandemic. Psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, author and educator Kendra Cherry — an expert in psychology and personality research, and the medical editors of Mayo Clinic, a non-profit organization committed to clinical practice, education, and research — has reiterated the mental health benefits of support systems and how to foster these networks. These findings have been compiled by the experts of the Benilde Well-Being Center (BWC) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, to create and develop these connections in and out of the family. Here are five pointers for a healthy social support system amid the pandemic: Make healthy choices. Social groups will influence your behavior. Surround yourself with encouraging individuals. They will inspire you to reach

your goals. Cope with stress. Caring peers allow us to better deal with stress. This is likewise associated with lower risks of high blood pressure

and other cardiovascular diseases caused by emotional distress. Care in times of crisis also lessens the repercussions of trauma-induced disorders. Improve motivation. Connect with persons who actively try to attain your shared goals. Talk to those who have the same experience. They are a source of support, empathy, and motivation. Cultivate your network. Get involved in a cause or hobby. Meet others with common values. Explore other reputable sites or online communities dedicated to those with similar interests or experiences. Give and take. A successful and lasting relationship is a two-way street. It requires active participation from both parties. Stay in touch and let others know you care. Answer phone calls. Return e-mails. Reciprocate invites. But do not overwhelm them. Listen to them when they speak. Be available when they need your assistance. Express how much you appreciate their help. Social support may be emotional,

instrumental, or informational. It comes in many forms. The goal of building this network is to reduce your stress level, so be cautious of situations and environments that might drain your energy. If you are struggling to make and keep friends, you may likewise seek guidance from professionals.

Chinese New Year

SPECIAL ISSUE

By Patricia Taculao

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INCE ancient times, we Filipinos have always been superstitious, except skeptics who believe in natural explanations. Nonetheless, superstitious beliefs guided us on how to prosper and avoid misfortune. But as other civilizations made their way onto Philippine soil, we began to adopt some of their superstitions as well.

The Chinese superstitions are among the ideas that we follow today, one being the practice of feng shui. Yet feng shui is much more than just abstract beliefs. It is known as the ancient Chinese art of arranging buildings, objects, and space in an environment to achieve harmony and balance. Feng shui has roots in early Taoism, but remains popular today. China, its neighboring countries, and even the Western world continue to practice this ancient art. One basis of feng shui is the Chinese zodiac. Twelve animals represent the zodiac sign, which is, in order, the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig. The Chinese believe that a person’s horoscope, personality, and love compatibility are closely associated with their Chinese zodiac sign. And since feng shui looks at the physical environment, including heavenly bodies, feng shui experts use the Chinese zodiac to determine the proper placement of things. In 2022, the Chinese horoscope falls on the water tiger. During this year, each of the 12 Chinese zodiac signs has new challenges or opportunities in store for them. Here, Master Ang, a Quezon Citybased feng shui expert who has been in the industry since 1998, offers some tips on how the 12 Chinese zodiac signs can live prosperously this year.

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A Feng Shui master’s guide to prosperity in 2022 Your ’22 Chinese Horoscope

Master Ang has been in the feng shui industry since 1998.

Master Ang advises that charms should be regularly cleansed using cleansing bowls.

YEAR OF THE WATER TIGER Master Ang clarified that although your Chinese zodiac reigns in a particular year doesn’t mean it will all be sunshine and rainbows throughout its entirety. On the other hand, it means that those born under the year of the tiger need to exercise caution to avoid misfortune. For instance, those born under the year of the water tiger need to focus on their health as sickly individuals may face problems concerning their well-being this 2022. And since we’re in a pandemic, it helps to be vigilant about possible health risks and identify the proper course of action to stay on top of it. However, there are some items based on feng shui that could protect people from negativity in their environment, such as a charm called “Tai Sui,” which means guardian of the year in Chinese astrology. Feng shui experts believe that carrying around a Tai Sui, along with its proper Taoist invocations, helps people overcome some difficulties in life. “It can be a bracelet or placed in a wallet. The Tai Sui can also be a pouch containing all of its different kinds and mean-

ings to invoke protection for this year,” Master Ang said in Filipino. On the other hand, those who want to become prosperous this 2022 should display a statue of the deity Guan Gong (or Kuan Kung) in their homes because it symbolizes loyalty and wealth. Buddha idols are also good to have around because these invite prosperity, success, and happiness in any establishment. “Among all the lucky charms and figurines, the Buddha is the only one seen smiling. Whenever we see Buddha, we feel more positive,” Master Ang added. Those born under the year of the tiger aren’t the only ones who need protection. Master Ang advised that those born under the year of the monkey, dragon, and snake also need to invest in the proper charms or statues for their protection. Master Ang also emphasized the importance of exercising caution when finding charms. This is because not all charms are compatible with the bearer, especially if they have contrasting Chinese zodiac signs. For example, those born under the three signs mentioned shouldn’t wear

Tiger’s eyes are a popular charm this 2022. However, those born under the signs of the dragon, snake, and monkey are advised not to wear them.

tiger’s eyes bracelets, because it might bring more hardships instead of good fortune. Meanwhile, any zodiac sign wearing a Pi Yao bracelet should be warned that misfortune will be coming their way. “Pi Yao means little dragon. And although it’s been a fad lately, not many people know that wearing it during the year of the tiger is considered bad luck because the tiger and dragon are not compatible with each other,” the feng shui expert said. Fortunately, three other zodiac signs are considered lucky this 2022: the horse, dog, and pig. But Master Ang advises that those born under these signs shouldn’t feel complacent about the events of the year and continue to strive towards success to help increase their chances of having a prosperous year ahead. MAKING CHARMS WORK While most people believe that wearing good luck charms is enough to invite good fortune into their lives, Master Ang says otherwise. There are some practices that people need to consider for their items to work as planned. Turn D2

FENG Shui expert Master Ang shares some predictions based on the 12 signs in the Chinese horoscope. Find out yours below! RAT­—Those born under the year of the rat need to work hard. According to Master Ang, the year will present the sign with challenges, and some of them may even feel lazy, but they need to persevere if they want to have the good fortune on their side for the entire year. OX—Last year wasn’t a good one for the ox, who faced several difficulties. However, this year, they can expect things to get better. But this doesn’t mean that they should be lax about their affairs. Instead, they should take this chance to get things back in order because there’s a better likelihood of achieving the things they didn’t have last year. TIGER—Despite 2022 being the year of the tiger, people born under the sign need to be wary because the year isn’t as lucky as they thought it would be. Master Ang explains that 80 percent of the tiger population will experience hardships, while 20 percent are blessed with good fortune. A good way to counteract the negativity is by working hard and giving back to others to invite good karma. RABBIT—In the middle of the year, rabbit signs can expect problems to arise. Next year falls under the rabbit sign in the Chinese zodiac, and as it draws near, those born in the year of the rabbit need to take precautionary measures to secure their safety. They should start by saving monTurn D2

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Chinese New Year

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Serving up a feast for Chinese New Year Conrad Manila welcomes ‘Year of the Tiger’ with ‘Roaring New Beginnings,’ festive cuisine, and Nian Gao Treasures CONRAD Manila welcomes the Chinese New Year of the Water Tiger with indulgent offerings such as the traditional Yee Sang Prosperity Toss, colorful Nian Gao Treasures and a well-curated set menu at China Blue by Jereme Leung. “We look forward to ushering in the Lunar New Year and celebrating ‘roaring’ new beginnings with our esteemed guests and team members,” shares Linda Pecoraro, hotel general manager, adding, “with the many challenges that we have all faced and succeeded over together in the last two years, we wish everyone good health and prosperity in the Year of the Tiger.” China Blue by Jereme Leung’s Executive Chinese Chef Eng Yew Khor masterfully works the wok for the festive season with a selection of traditional favorites such as: Braised Money bag of minced beef with fish lips and spring onions gong chai soup; Braised Abalone, stuffed fish maw and dry oyster in superior egg white dry scallop sauce; Steamed Lapu Lapu with assorted shredded mushroom, pork and Zha Chai superior soya sauce and Deep-fried caramel tropical coconut Nian Gao, among others, available a la carte or in a set menu for 10 persons or more. China Blue by Jereme Leung also offers specially curated Yee Sang, Suckling Pig and Dim Sum Platter available for pre-order and takeaway through its E-store, http://bit.ly/conradestore Patrons are invited to bring home a box of Nian Gao available in four mouth-watering flavors and beautifully presented in delicately crafted boxes. Each Nian Gao is shaped in koi fish and mini gold bars to represent good fortune and prosperity in the following flavors: Traditional Brown Sugar, Tropical Coconut, Red Bean, and Sweet Lemon. Nian Gao Treasures is priced at Php 1,888 per box of 6 and available for preorder and takeaway. Conrad Manila is committed to the well-being of its guests and team members, adhering to stringent health and safety protocols, and always ensuring social distancing. The hotel also features Hilton CleanStay, Hilton’s heightened standard of cleaning and disinfection developed to ensure guests of an even cleaner and safer stay and dining experience.

For reservations and inquiries, please call +632 8833 9999 or email conradmanila@conradhotels.com. To learn more about Conrad Manila’s promotions and offers follow us on Facebook (ConradManilaPH) and on Instagram (@conradmanila).

From Zero to Hero: Globe cell site brings dead spot in Bangar, La Union to life IN THE northernmost town of La Union lies Bangar, the smallest municipality in the province known for its handwoven cloth called Abel. Until early this year, Barangay Rissing in Bangar was what could be considered a dead spot. It was practically isolated from the rest of the world due to the absence of any communication facility. With the recent construction of a Globe cell site equipped with 4G LTE, Barangay Rissing was brought to life. Connectivity allowed its residents to get in touch with friends and loved ones who live far away. It gave them another form of entertainment and even opened their eyes to new ways of doing things. One of those who take advantage of Globe’s strong call, text, and data signal is Alvin Nelmida. Since Alvin spends all day in the fields as a farmer, he turns to his trusted mobile phone to relax and have a little fun after the grueling work. “Mahirap ang maging magsasaka kaya pagkatapos naming magtrabaho sa bukid, Facebook, YouTube ang sinisilip ko para maka-relax man lang ako,” he shared. But watching videos for entertainment is not the only thing Alvin does. He also uses social media to gain new knowledge about planting online. “Marami rin akong natutunang bagong technique pag nag-o-online ako,” he said. Alvin adopts his learnings online to farming to achieve a better yield. Bangar is primarily agricultural, producing rice, corn, sugar cane, peanuts, sweet potatoes, vegetables, and Virginia tobacco. But most of all, Alvin can now bond with his wife who works abroad. “Mahirap ang relasyon namin kasi nasa malayo siya pero gumagaan ‘yung loob ko kapag nakaka-video call ko siya. Malaki talaga ang naitutulong ng cell site,” he narrated.

These were made possible due to Globe’s tireless efforts to expand and upgrade its network. Globe has made it a mission to deliver #1stWorldNetwork to Filipinos anywhere in the country. “Internet connectivity is a life essential. It allows relationships and local community activities to flourish. This drives all our teams in ensuring that no one is left behind when we deliver our services even in far-flung areas. They also deserve fast and reliable connectivity that the Globe 4G LTE network brings,” said Marge Dizon, Globe Vice President for Program Delivery, Network Technical Group. As the country’s Leader in Mobile, Globe was able to build 1,407 new cell sites nationwide in 2021. It has also upgraded and expanded 22,300 mobile sites during the said period. Over 2,000 5G outdoor sites and inbuilding solutions (IBS) have been installed. Globe strongly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically UN SDG No. 9, which aims to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation. It is committed to upholding the United Nations Global Compact principles and contributing to 10 UN SDGs.

By Patricia Taculao

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VERY first of January, people come together to celebrate a mutual holiday that beckons a fresh start and new opportunities for all, the New Year. During this time, people come up with different activities to make the event festive and memorable. But one thing is sure, a feast always follows to allow friends and family to strengthen their bonds over a good meal. This February 1, the Chinese community will celebrate the beginning of a new cycle in their lunar calendar. This holiday is known as Chinese New Year or Lunar New Year, and like other cultures around the world, they also have their way of celebrating the event, and food plays a significant role in it. Besides bringing people together to enjoy the holidays over a pleasant meal, the food served during the Lunar New Year is symbolic of inviting good fortune and prosperity in households. For instance, serving noodles is a tradition during the new year meal. In Chinese culture, noodles symbolize longevity and happiness. And since the start of a new year is always an ideal time to invite good fortune, various kinds of noodle dishes are a common sight on the dining table. Superstition says that the noodles should be kept long and served uncut so those who eat the dish can enjoy long and happy lives. Another meal served during the Lunar New Year is fish, usually steamed, but it can also be braised, boiled, or more. The Chinese word for fish sounds similarly to surplus. They believe that it promotes extra income towards the end of the year and take it with them to the next. Several beliefs also dictate how the fish should be eaten, like leaving the dish to last along with some leftovers. Others include the fish head placed toward distinguished guests or elders to represent respect. Those at the table can enjoy the dish after those facing the fish’s head had their turn. Dumplings also make a good addition to the new year spread, especially since they’ve been around for 1,800 years, thus giving them a spot on the Lunar New Year table. This flavorful dish is filled with minced meat and finely-chopped vegetables wrapped in a thin dough and cooked by baking, boiling, frying, or steaming. It’s also forbidden to serve the dumplings in a circular arrangement. They have to form lines as if they were going somewhere to show progress in life. Chinese New Year also goes by another name among the Chinese. It’s known as Spring Festival because it marks the beginning of spring. A traditional dish that honors such a celebration is the Chinese spring rolls. The Cantonese dim sum is made up of cylindrical-shaped rolls filled with meat or vegetables. Spring rolls are always cooked fried because the golden brown color of its wrapper symbolizes wealth. Steamed chicken is another favorite when celebrating the Chinese New year. A whole chicken symbolizes the family and their strong relationship. Once cooked, the chicken is offered to their ancestors to ask for blessings and protection.

Your ’22... From D1

ey this year to prepare for the difficulties that they may face in the following one. They are also advised to watch their health closely. DRAGON—This year doesn’t look good for dragon signs because it is not compatible with the tiger. They should exercise extreme caution, especially those who have a bad temper or are quick to react negatively. SNAKE—Master Ang shared that snake signs will also be negatively affected this year because of their incompatibility with tiger signs. People born under the year of the snake are characterized by brave personalities that sometimes keep them from thinking rationally. This year, they should strive in their career and maintain relationships to avoid losing allies. HORSE—Because of their compatibility with the tiger in the Chinese horoscope, horse signs can expect a good year ahead of them. This 2022 is a time for them to take chances and work hard towards the goals they’ve laid out for themselves. Being confident will also help them become successful. GOAT—Caution is required from goat signs this year. They are accidentprone and attract negative energy from their environment, making good fortune and prosperity somewhat harder to

A Feng Shui... From D1 Lucky charms are often worn almost everyday in every circumstance. The feng shui master advises against this, especially if the wearer is going to do something negative or go to a negative space. This includes arguing with someone and gambling. If doing so, the wearer needs to remove the charms from their body. The charms invoke positivity in one’s life, and to amplify their effects, wearers need to continue doing good or surround themselves with positive energy. However, if the charms weren’t removed during a negative event, the best thing to do is have them cleansed by feng shui experts. This is where the public should exercise vigilance.

Lastly, fruits also make an appearance during the Chinese New Year meal. But the fruits that are served need to meet two crucial specifications: they must be round and in shades of gold. Some prime examples are pomelos and oranges. Aside from being delicious and healthy, these two particular fruits are symbolic. For example, eating and displaying oranges brings fortune and good luck. In the meantime, the more pomelo people eat, the more wealth it is said to bring. Although most families dine out to celebrate the Lunar New Year, the ongoing health risk brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic may hinder plans of going out. The best and safest alternative, for now, is to order online from their favorite Chinese restaurants. Cooking these dishes at home is also a great option because it allows families to bond throughout the process. Food isn’t the only tradition that’s observed during the new year’s celebration as dining etiquette is also observed. Some of these do’s and don’ts include avoiding sticking chopsticks into a bowl of rice because it’s considered rude and said to invite bad luck. Eating with a closed mouth is also advised because slurping is extremely rude in Chinese culture. Another table manner don’t is to start eating before the host. Instead, serve someone else first.

THE ORIGINS OF THE LUNAR NEW YEAR

Celebrating the new year is the most important holiday in China. It is also observed in other countries such as Vietnam, North and South Korea, and Tibet. The holiday began as a holiday to honor the Chinese household and celestial deities as well as their ancestors. Its origins can be traced to 3,500 years ago, even though it’s not exactly recorded. Some believe that it started from the Shang Dynasty in 1600 to 1046 B.C. and, like traditional festivals, is shrouded deep in stories and myths. The most popular one is about the mythical beast Nian, who comes around yearly to devour, livestock, and people. Eventually, they began leaving out food at their doorsteps to prevent the mythical beast from attacking. It is said that an elderly wise man discovered that Nian was afraid of loud noises and the color red. This resulted in people setting off fireworks and decorating their surroundings with red paper lanterns during the night the beast attacks. As the years progressed, the traditions developed and adapted to modern times. However, some ancient customs can still be seen today. Fireworks and scarlet-adorned streets or households are a telltale sign of the Lunar New Year. The famous lion dance by street performers also remembers the ancient origin of the holiday as dancers holding a lion costume are given offerings from them to move on to another establishment. While the once lively and colorful holiday tamed down due to the pandemic, there’s still a lot to celebrate and be thankful for as a new year opens up new opportunities for all to enjoy. This holiday, like every other one, is best observed with loved ones. Here’s to a wonderful and prosperous Lunar New Year. achieve. Most goat signs are friendly and trusting, but if they want to avoid misfortune, they should begin screening the company they keep. MONKEY—According to Master Ang, the tiger considers the monkey its mortal enemy, thus making it unlucky in all aspects this year. He advises monkey signs to be extra careful this year and prepare for any hardships ahead. They also need to have faith and believe that they’re not entirely unlucky in 2022. This shred of positivity may help counteract the negative energy from the reigning sign. ROOSTER—For this year, those born under the year of the rooster also need to look out for their health. But when it comes to money and career, they can rest a bit easy knowing that the year won’t be as challenging for them in these aspects. DOG—Tiger signs are also compatible with dog signs, making the latter lucky this year. They will also be very hardworking and reap good rewards. However, they should be careful when handling money because they are prone to being scammed by others or spending too much. PIG—Individuals born under the year of the pig are also advised to be careful in 2022. This doesn’t mean that they’re unlucky, instead, luck is within their reach as long as they make the right decisions and work hard to achieve their goals.

“Cleansing charms require special incantations that are hard to pronounce if you’re not an expert. Don’t be fooled by shops that sell charms that just knock the charms against a cleansing bowl several times rapidly,” Master Ang said. Instead, conduct research on which experts and shops provide authentic service to avoid wasting money. But if experts or shops are unavailable, he advises people to cleanse their charms by soaking them in rock salt, no water, for five minutes before wearing them again. As the year of the water tiger unfolds before us, there’s no harm in exercising caution or seizing new opportunities, according to the Chinese horoscope and feng shui ideas. But remember, it’s our actions and decisions that make a big difference.

Chinese New Year

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DDRESSING the emergence of efficient medical transportation amidst the surging cases of COVID-19 in the country, FOTON Motor takes its corporate social responsibility by donating TransVan HR Ambulance in goal to intensify mobility response for the greater public.

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FOTON empowers emergency transportation for strengthened response against COVID-19

In coordination with the Cebu Consulate General Jia Li and FOTON Mandaue, the TransVan HR Ambulance was turned over the to the Emergency Rescue Unit Foundation (ERUF) Training Center based in Mandaue City, Cebu. “FOTON is one with the country in this situation. We are taking part in this crisis, we will stay committed to helping our countrymen especially in this time of great need,” says FOTON Motor Philippines, Inc.,(FMPI) president, Erroll E Dueñas. The FOTON TransVan HR Ambulance is well-equipped in handling urgent medical situations. It is boarded with foldable wheeled stretchers with an adjustable backrest to ensure patient comfort, heavy-duty spine board, front-facing paramedic seats, medical tools, and kits that are all significant in responding to emergency situations. With 12V and 220V power sockets on the go, this cost-efficient ambulance can also supply electrical power to vital equipment including defibrillators, ECG monitors, digital sphygmomanometers, or disinfection lamps. On top of it, FOTON TransVan HR Ambulance ensures well ventilation inside the vehicle through a cabin air exhaust fan plus a built-in heating and airconditioning system. This ambulance also features a key advantage by providing high roof clearance and ample space allowing medical practitioners to move freely or even board more essential tools and equipment. “We believe that FOTON TransVan HR Ambulance can provide competent transporting performance in urgent situations even in around-the-clock duty,” says Erroll Dueñas. FOTON TransVan HR Ambulance commits a reli-

able performance through its competent 2.8L turbocharged fuel-efficient diesel engine that runs a strong maximum power output of 95HP at 3,600RPM. Ensuring the safety of its passengers while on the road, the FOTON TransVan HR Ambulance is equipped with Anti-lock Braking System(ABS), and Electronic Brake Distribution(EBD) that ensures smoother turns in avoiding obstacles or in swinging sharp road curves. As early as the pandemic has started, FOTON has been committed to helping Filipinos by donating a series of ambulances and providing several humanitarian campaigns including free rides for frontliners, feeding programs, and reach-out programs. For inquiries, call your nearest FOTON dealer or sales hotline at 0999-999-9998. You may also explore and reach FOTON PH on various digital platforms via https://linktr.ee/FOTONPhilippines.

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Chinese New Year

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Luck and fun for tiger tots at Toy Kingdom

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ELEBRATE Chinese New Year with Toy Kingdom’s cuddly toy tigers that kids – and kids at heart - would love to hold, hug, and snuggle at night. Adorable as they are, these are a supposed to bring a roaring share of luck, laughter, passion, and adventure in the Year of the Tiger. There are adorable and colorful plush tigers with stripes and sparkling eyes, as well as cute and fluffy Kawaii Tigers. They are perfect gifts for tiger tots who are born with all the charm and optimism they will need to navigate the ebb and flow of fortune in life. They possess big hearts, and naturally dispense love and charity to those people and interests that capture their imagination—from family and

Spread the luck and fun with lovable Tiggy with his stripes and sparkling green eyes.

Adorable Kawaii Tiger plush with Crown

Celebrate the Year of the Tiger with the We Bare Bears trio on Tiger Print shirts.

pets to the needy and downtrodden of the world. Charismatic and bright, little tigers are ultimate optimists and will always bounce back from any setback, much like Tigger in Winnie the Pooh. Their insatiable curiosity about life will lead them into more than their fair share of adventures, sometimes resulting in scrapes, but you can’t keep a good cat down. Tigers are natural born leaders, always looking to bring folks together, put their brilliant ideas into practice, and ensure that equality reigns. Welcome the Year of the Tiger with Toy Kingdom’s collection of fluffy and adorable tiger inspired plushies that will surely bring luck and lots of fun into your homes. Get them via Toy Kingdom’s Call to Deliver services at 0917.5578797 and have a personal shopper assist you and your kids to virtually select toys. Check out the latest toys at www. toykingdom.com. ph. Follow ToyKingdomPH in Facebook and Instagram.

Winky Pinky Asia Tiger Beanie.

Tundra, the little white tiger is the fluffiest TY Beanie.

Tag along these TeenyTY Tabor and Tundra plushies wherever you go.

New year, new beginnings By Christine Joy Relanes EVERY country has its own unique way of celebrating and welcoming the approaching year. Despite our differences, we can’t hide the fact that we have the same hopes and wishes as we look forward to a blessed, and prosperous year ahead. Filipinos celebrate New Year with various traditions and cultures accustomed to it. We wear polka dots to guarantee wealth in the coming year and buy 13 kinds of round and spherical fruits like oranges, pears, grapes, and many more, for we believe that round things will bring good fortune, prosperity, and a harmonious relationship to our family.

CHINESE NEW YEAR TRADITIONS

Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, is one of the most solemn events for the Chinese. “Kung Hei Fat Choi”, is a Cantonese greeting which means “Wishing you great happiness and prosperity.” The mandarin translation for this greeting is “Go Xi Fa Cai”. The festival signals the beginning of spring and the start of a new year, according to the Chinese lunar calendar. It was also believed that through this celebration, the Chinese were able to worship their ancestors, remove evil spirits, and have time to pray for a good and blessed harvest. Chinese New Year in the Philippines is always celebrated with joy and happiness. Fil-Chinese people observe this with colorful fireworks and firecrackers in the belief that it will scare monsters and bad fortune. Dragon Dance and Lion Dance, meanwhile, are their traditional performances for a joyous festival and their way of praying for good luck. On the eve of the celebration, the extended family would join around the table for a meal with many lucky foods they expect will bring prosperity, such as fish and dumplings. They also wear red clothes to go with the festive upbeat mood. Giving money in a red envelope is their way of giving best wishes. The red envelope is called “lucky money”. Red is a good luck color for the Chinese. Our fellow Filipino-Chinese community, also called “Tsinoy”, celebrate their New Year on January 31 to February 20, a multi-day event in which the last day is celebrated in accordance with the lantern festival. Every household prepares delicacies that were made from Sticky Rice like “Bibingkas, Bikos, and Tikoys”—for it symbolizes strong bond and ties among family. Jumping and celebrating with loud noises when the clock strikes midnight are some of the traditions done by children and even adults. There is no harm in following traditional practices, but we should keep in mind that praying, thanking the Lord, and hard work are still the best weapons that will give us good fortune in life.