Manila Standard - 2022 February 3- Thursday

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Passengers arrive at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Paranaque City. Despite a US State Department warning against travel to the Philippines, the Department of Tourism remains unfazed that the industry will rebound as COVID-19 cases decrease and mobility curbs are eased. Starting February 10, fully-vaccinated foreign visitors, including those from the United States, will be allowed to enter the country.

Danny Pata

DOT unfazed by US travel warning, sees tour rebound

By Othel V. Campos and Vito Barcelo

VOL. XXXV • NO. 353 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2022 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

forward to an increase in inbound and domestic tourism as it promotes safe travel around the country’s islands.

While the US advisory might DESPITE a US travel advisory warning against travel to the Philippines dampen the interest of some travelers, over COVID-19 concerns, the Depart- the department said things have never ment of Tourism (DOT) is looking Next page

Govt eyeing pandemic exit

Nograles says IATF working on details, downgrade to Alert Level 1

By Willie Casas and Vito Barcelo

T

HE government is now working on an exit plan from the COVID-19 pandemic, acting presidential spokesman Karlo Nograles said Wednesday.

"We’ve always been talking about terview when asked if the Inter-Agenthat," Nograles said in a television in- cy Task Force for the Management of

Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) has such a plan.

The IATF, he said, has its own subtechnical working group on recovering, working on resolutions for the gradual reopening of the economy, reviving tourism and resuming face-to-face classes.

“So we have a task group for that and they are the ones putting the details on this resiliency plan that we have,” he said.

But Nograles ruled out a proposal to scrap the alert level system altogether, because although the vaccination rate in Metro Manila is high, inoculations still have to be ramped up in other regions in the country.

Nograles said the alert level system will likely stay in case the emergence of a new COVID-19 variant would trigger another surge of infections.

The Palace official said they are still studying when Alert Level 1 would be declared, which would be the “new normal.”

To downgrade to Alert Level 1, Nograles said an area should record a hospital utilization rate of below 49 percent, a zero or decreasing COVID-19 two-week growth rate, and an average daily attack Next page rate (ADAR) below 1.

Virus infections rise among kids below 5—DOH Health official denies group's claim

By Willie Casas THE number of COVID-19 cases among children below 5 years old rose last month compared to the wave of Delta infections last year, the Department of Health said as the agency prepared for the government's expansion of

pediatric vaccination.

Virus infections among the age group were tallied at 632 on January 24 to 30 compared to only 554 during the peak of Delta cases in September, DOH data showed.

"There's a decline in COVID-19 cases among 60 years old and above...On the other hand, an increase has been ob-

served among COVID cases in the pediatric age group compared last September when we had the Delta experience,” Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire told reporters Wednesday.

But this should not stop parents from allowing their children to go outside their homes in areas under Alert Level 2, Vergeire said.

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Guanzon, Ferolino meet at Comelec ceremony for retiring commissioners

By Macon Ramos-Araneta COMMISSION on Elections chairman Sheriff Abas and Commissioners Rowena Guanzon and Antonio Kho Jr. retired Wednesday, a little over three months before the May 9 synchronized na-

tional and local polls.

Abas thanked his colleagues and staff, whom he described as "among the best and the most dedicated public servants in the country."

"It has been an honor to serve with you, our beloved employees," Abas said.

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deaths due to COVID understated

THE Department of Health discredited Wednesday a claim by the Concerned Doctors and Citizens of the Philippines that the country's COVID-19 deaths – 54,097 as of mid week – were double than what was being reported.

The group cited the Philippine Statistics Authority, which it said recorded more than 105,000 total COVID deaths versus the 54,054 reported by the DOH as of Monday.

Data of the DOH and the PSA do not match as the health agency verifies reported COVID-19 deaths and does not consider incidental cases or those hospitalized for a different cause but when tested yielded a positive result, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said.

Local governments sometimes do not Next page

3,577,298 7,661

160,297

54,097

43

3,362,904 23,392 (As of 4 PM, FEBRUARY 2)

Palace on Pharmally report: Not official

By Joyce Pangco Panares, Maricel V. Cruz and Macon Ramos-Araneta THE Palace on Wednesday declined to comment on a Senate Blue Ribbon report that found President Duterte betrayed the public trust by doing nothing about billions of pesos worth of irregular government contracts with Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp., saying the findings were not yet final.

BOWING OUT. Commission on Elections chairman Sheriff Abas and Commissioners Rowena Guanzon and Antonio Kho Jr. are feted during a solemn retirement ceremony Wednesday.

Guanzon gets 7 fake food deliveries on last day of work

By Vito Barcelo COMELEC Commissioner Rowena Guanzon, who retired Wednesday after a seven-year term at the constitutional body, appeared to have been

victimized by fake food orders on her last working day in office in Intramuros.

At least six or seven food delivery riders arrived at Palacio del Gobernador, Comelec's main office, in Manila only to

find out that neither Guanzon nor her office ordered anything.

Some P5,390 worth of food was ordered via an app using Guanzon's name. Guanzon's office denied bookNext page ing the order.

FAKE ORDER. A food delivery driver shows a receipt for a bogus order made under the name of outgoing Comelec Commissioner Rowena Guanzon on Wednesday, February 2, 2022.

Danny Pata

"The report is yet to be adopted by the committee. It was a partial, unofficial finding," said acting presidential spokesman Karlo Nograles.

"It's something we cannot comment on because it is not yet official,” Nograles said, adding that they have yet to receive a copy of the draft report.

Senator Richard Gordon on Wednesday admitted the report has yet to be signed by other members of the Blue Ribbon committee.

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Expanded in-person classes OK’d T

HE Department of Education (DepEd) said Wednesday it allowed more public and private schools nationwide to hold limited in-person classes – the second phase of a three-part plan to reopen basic education classes since March 2020.

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put the correct immediate and underlying causes of death, Vergeire said.

"We are debunking this allegation...

The DOH data is (sic) the official number for COVID-19 deaths because our data is being cleaned, being validated. Whatever we report is exactly those who died due to COVID and not an incidental finding that they had COVID, Vergeire said.

She said the DOH was coordinating with the PSA to "harmonize" the data.

The DOH announced Wednesday afternoon that total COVID-19 deaths in the country stood at 54,097 after an additional 43 were recorded over the last 24 hours.

According to the Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM), with initial data from the PSA, the first 11 months of 2021 saw more registered deaths across the Philippines, which stood at 768,504— higher by 154,562 than all of 2020.

This number hiked the country’s mortality rate to 6.98 per thousand, as against 5.8 per thousand in 2020.

This, according to POPCOM, set a record in the number of Filipinos dying in a year since post-World War 2.

COVID-19, classified either as “identified” or “unidentified” by medical practitioners, was the underlying cause of death for 75,285 Filipinos—higher than the 30,140 deaths from the same cause from March to December 2020.

It was the second-leading cause of death next to ischemic heart disease POPCOM executive director Dr. Juan A. Perez III said about 105,425 deaths, or 11.04% of 954,585 deaths from April 2020 to October 2021, were classified as caused by COVID-19.

Perez explained there are two kinds of COVID-19 deaths: COVID-19 “identified,” which can be confirmed via RT-PCR tests, and COVID-19 “unidentified,” with laboratory tests or clinical findings by a doctor indicative of COVID-19, but without a confirmatory test up to the time of death.

Both are considered valid causes of death, and are methods accepted by the World Health Organization to report the disease, Perez said.

In a statement, the DepEd said Sec- progressive expansion phase of face-toretary Leonor Briones "has authorized face classes for both public and private all regional directors to commence the schools."

The first phase, which had nearly 300 participating schools, took place last November to December.

The DepEd said schools must be compliant with its School Safety Assessment Tool before it could hold limited in-person classes.

Only schools in areas under Alerts Level 1 and 2 are allowed to hold classroom sessions, the DepEd added.

On Tuesday, Metropolitan Manila

Development Authority chairman Benhur Abalos said they would discuss with DepEd the possible return of limited face-to-face classes as the region shifted to a looser COVID-19 alert level.

“Remember, before all these happened, we already had a pilot and it was good, continuous. We will see, we will immediately have a dialogue with Secretary Leonor Briones and her colleagues if we could perhaps continue this pilot," Abalos said.

demic,” the direction is to see if people can live with the virus.

“Endemicity has many components – we need to see sustained, controlled number of cases, more people are vaccinated, and fewer severe infections,” she said.

The Philippines dropped from a high risk classification to a moderate risk classification for COVID- 19, the Department of Health (DOH) said.

Vergeire said the country has recorded a negative one-week and two-week growth rate.

Though the average daily attack rate in the Philippines is still at high risk, it has dropped to 19.93 cases per every 100,000 individuals.

Both the national health systems capacity, total beds, and ICU beds are at low risk, she said.

The National Capital Region (NCR), meanwhile, is classified as a moderate risk for COVID-19, the independent OCTA Research Group said Tuesday.

“Our projection is that within one to two weeks it will be at low risk,” said

OCTA Research fellow Guido David, in an interview on state-run PTV. David said that NCR's positivity rate is currently at 17 percent and the average daily attack rate (ADAR) is 19.58 percent.

Metro Manila and seven other areas reverted to Alert Level 2, which will be in effect from Feb. 1 to Feb. 15.

Under Alert Level 2, which is the second lowest in the new alert level system, certain establishments and activities are allowed at 50 percent capacity indoors for fully vaccinated adults (and minors, even if unvaccinated), and 70 percent capacity outdoors.

Also under Alert Level 2, the implementation of the "no vaccination, no ride" policy barring unvaccinated people in Metro Manila from boarding public transport will be suspended, the Department of Transportation earlier said.

The Philippines logged on 7,661 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, bringing the total case count to 3,577,298.

The country's positivity rate was at 24.8 percent, based on 40,453 tests con-

ducted on Jan. 31.

The top regions with cases in the recent two weeks were Region 6 (Western Visayas) with 896 or 15 percent; National Capital Region (Metro Manila) with 873 or 15 percent; and Region 4-A (Calabarzon) with 694 or 12 percent.

There were 43 new fatalities reported, bringing the COVID-19 death toll to 54,097.

The DOH also reported 23,392 new recoveries, bringing the total number of recoveries to 3,362,904.

The DOH also reported 160,297 active cases, of which 5,575 were asymptomatic; 149,892 were mild; 3,056 were moderate; 1,521 were severe; and 316 were critical.

Nationwide, 46 percent of ICU beds, 44 percent of isolation beds, 45 percent of ward beds, and 25 percent of ventilators, were in use.

In Metro Manila, 40 percent of ICU beds, 34 percent of isolation beds, 36 percent of ward beds, and 24 percent of ventilators, were in use.

The DOT said it will be focusing its efforts on the visa-free countries under EO 408 that are identified as the key, strategic, and opportunity markets.

The US is a key market for the Philippines, alongside South Korea, Japan, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

The department is pushing for a new and diverse set of branding promotions aimed at strategic markets comprised of Singapore, Malaysia, Germany, and Hong Kong.

Meanwhile, France, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Spain, Saudi Arabia, Netherlands, Italy, New Zealand, Russia, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Israel, Denmark, Poland, Austria, UAE, Turkey, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar are considered opportunity markets that need aggressive promotions.

The department previously announced the country’s readiness to accept fullyvaccinated foreign leisure travelers from

visa-free countries beginning Feb. 10.

In addition, qualified leisure travelers are spared from observing quarantine days once they test negative on an RTPCR test taken 48 hours prior to departure from their point of origin.

Following government guidelines, leisure travelers from visa-free countries will be allowed access, provided that their passports are valid for at least six months at the time of arrival, with outbound tickets for flights back to their country of origin or their next country of destination.

Leisure visitors must also carry proof of vaccination against COVID-19 that are recognized by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF), such as certificates of vaccination issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) and VaxCertPH of the Department of Health.

The Bureau of Immigration said starting Feb. 10, it will allow the entry of

foreign visitors who are fully vaccinated from countries that are permitted visa-free travel, including the United States.

The BI issued the advisory even after the US Centers for Disease and Control Prevention discouraged travel to the Philippines due to the “very high level of COVID-19” in the country.

The US CDC added the Philippines on its list of countries under “Level Four: Very High,” its highest tier on its travel health notices, that advise “avoid travel to this destination.”

In an advisory, BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said that in compliance with the resolution from the IATF, fully vaccinated nationals of non-visa-required countries will be allowed to enter the Philippines.

A total of 157 countries are considered visa free, including the United States of America, South Korea, Japan, Australia, Canada, UK, Malaysia, and Singapore.

cials will remain.

“I know that even if they are retired, they are just a phone call away. Right, Chair [Abas], Comm. Kho, Comm. Bing [Guanzon]?” Ferolino said.

“And I hope that the friendship that we have started will not end with you leaving the commission,” she added.

Meanwhile, Senate President Vicente Sotto III said it was "inappropriate" to conduct a motu proprio – or on the chamber's initiative – referral to the body's Ethics committee the allegations of Guanzon against a thus far unidentified fellow senator.

Sotto said Guanzon already revealed the identity of the senator who allegedly interfered and caused the delay in the release of the poll body's decision on the disqualification cases against Marcos.

"I said I will not make this public. I will wait for you [Guanzon] to make this public. Otherwise, if there is no evidence in my hands, I will just dismiss the insinuation as hearsay,” Sotto said.

"I have no direct personal knowledge of the accusation," added Sotto.

Guanzon earlier revealed she had voted to disqualify Marcos since he had already been convicted for tax evasion, calling the former senator repeatedly in interviews as an “ex-convict.”

"Commissioner Ferolino (Ampoloquio), lacking in experience in practice

of law, was nominated and strongly supported by at least one senator.

That's already on record that she will not act like this if it's not [for] that senator who will order her because they're very close since they were both in Davao," she said in an interview.

When asked about the identity of the senator, Guanzon said: “I will not name the senator here because his wife already knows. It’s enough for me that his wife already knows and there’s going to be a war in his household."

“His [unnamed senator] wife is already angry at him. It’s already viral. So that’s his problem. Let us focus on Bongbong Marcos as a weak leader. Let’s focus on Bongbong Marcos’ moral turpitude," Guanzon added.

Meanwhile, the alleged interference on the disqualification case against Marcos Jr. has to be addressed, a lawyers' group said Wednesday.

According to Philippine Bar Association assistant corporate secretary Arnel Valeña, the Commission on Elections will not be accused of bias by doing so.

“There are allegations of outside-forces interference in that judicial process so I think this has to be addressed so whatever decision the Comelec comes up with will not be accused of being biased or baseless,” Valeña told CNN.

Guanzon...

Guanzon said that police are now investigating the incident.

The 64-year-old Guanzon, who had been in the news during the past few days because of her criticisms against a fellow Comelec commissioner, then warned people behind fake deliveries of food orders allegedly made by her office.

She said since Tuesday night, her office had been receiving fake and unauthorized orders from various online delivery apps and restaurant bookings, which were being sent to her office as unpaid orders.

More than five orders were turned away as of Wednesday morning, each one worth thousands of pesos.

“These people are bad, victimizing food riders,” Guanzon said in a separate post.

Meanwhile, Guanzon disclosed that she has been shortlisted for the position of deputy Ombudsman for the Visayas.

“I was shortlisted as deputy ombudsman for the Visayas and there are three of us. One from Davao, one is a director in the Ombudsman here in Manila. Well, it is up to the President [whether] he appoints me or not. But I am a no-nonsense career public servant and a professor of law. So, I will serve,” Guanzon said in an interview on CNN Philippines.

"Cases increased but nearly all were mild. We don't need to scare our children or their parents,” she said.

"We need to give them more protection...so they can continue to enjoy going outside, interacting with other children in their area or going to their school,” she said.

The government on Friday will begin the COVID-19 vaccination of children ages 5 to 11.

A COVID vaccine for children below 5 has yet to be approved in the Philippines.

Adults are urged to get the jab to protect children who are not yet eligible, health authorities earlier said.

The Philippines has so far fully vaccinated 6.28 million children aged 12 to 17 as of Jan. 23, according to DOH data presented by Dr. Mary Ann Bunyi, president of the Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines.

Meanwhile, a shipment of Pfizer vaccine to be used for 5 to 11 years old is expected to arrive in the country Thursday, the Department of Health said.

Around 780,000 doses of the Pfizer anti-COVID vaccine minors aged 5 to 11 are scheduled to arrive.

The government initially ordered 15 million Pfizer vaccine doses for the expansion of the pediatric population beginning Friday.

Pfizer and relevant agencies have trained vaccinators, and logistics in initial sites of the vaccine rollout have been prepared, according to Vergeire during a virtual public briefing.

Gordon said there is true,” he said in Filipino, adding that he signed the draft report “with no reservations.”

Meanwhile, the chairman of the House Blue Ribbon committee that investigated the questionable government purchases of pandemic supplies from Pharmally said his committee found no evidence to recommend the filing of charges against President Duterte or his former economic adviser, Chinese businessman Michael Yang.

Rep. Michael Aglipay of DIWA partylist group, the committee chairman, made the statement in response to the Senate Blue Ribbon committee findings that President Duterte betrayed the public trust in connection with his actions related to the government’s multi-billion-peso contracts with Pharmally.

“There is no evidence to support the other charges,” Aglipay said in a Viber message in response to the Senate panel’s report.

Similarly, Aglipay said "Michael Yang, he is not liable in this Pharmally case,” adding that it was not a crime to lend money.

The Senate panel also recommended the filing of criminal charges against

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III and other former government officials over the alleged misuse of COVID-19 pandemic response funds.

But Aglipay said he stands by the report of his own committee even if its findings were different from the Senate panel’s.

“We stand by our own findings knowing that we have based our recommendation on testimonial and documentary evidence only,” Aglipay said.

The initial 113-page partial report of the committee chaired by Gordon said Duque transferred a total of P41.4 billion to the Procurement Service of the Department of Budget and Management (PS-DBM) during the height of the pandemic in 2020. Part of these funds went to Pharmally, an under-capitalized startup with no track record that bagged P11 billion in government contracts for face masks, face shields and personal protective equipment.

Duque on Wednesday assailed the Senate Blue Ribbon committee for turning a blind eye to the fact that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and not the Department of Health (DOH) handled all COVID-19 response purchases.

“We at the DOH were not part of the activity as we were focused on the medical side of the pandemic response,” Duque said.

In its initial report, the Blue Ribbon committee recommended the graft and plunder charges be filed against Duque.

Gordon's committee also considered filing charges against President Rodrigo Duterte, but noted the President enjoyed immunity from suit while he is still in office.

The President, the committee said, betrayed public trust, in violation of his oath of office under the 1987 Constitution, in connection with his actions related to the controversial deal with Pharmally.

Citing the law that the President could not be sued during his tenure of office or actual incumbency, the panel said the charges against Duterte should be dealt with after he leaves office.

For violation of the Plunder Law, it also recommended charges against Yang, former Department of Budget and Management Procurement Service (PS-DBM) officer-in-charge Christopher Lloyd Lao, Overall Deputy Ombudsman Warren Rex Liong, Pharmally executives Linconn Ong, Mohit Dargani, Twinkle Dargani, Krizle Grace Mago, Huang Tzu Yen as

well as Chinese businessman Lin Weixiong.

The same names along with DBM official Dickson Panti should also be charged with violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, the report said, for their alleged involvement in the multibillion-peso contracts with the pharmaceutical firm.

A former adviser to the government’s pandemic response, Dr. Anthony Leachon, supported the Blue Ribbon finding.

"We are delighted to know that there are men and women of integrity in the Senate that will stand for truth and justice for our country on the edge of chaos during the pandemic," he said.

"We support the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee in its investigation to seek the truth and crush corruption that has severely crippled our society. Public office is a public trust," he said.

The former government adviser on the National Task Force on COVID-19 said public officials should be accountable to the people and should serve them with utmost responsibility, integrity, loyalty, and efficiency; they should act with patriotism and justice, and lead modest lives.

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Under Alert Level 1, establishments can do away with restrictions on their venue capacity and travel would be allowed regardless of age or comorbidities, while maintaining compliance with minimum public health standards.

He also said they were looking forward to moving the country down to COVID-19 Alert Level 1 as most people will be fully vaccinated and many of them boosted.

Nograles said the health experts have yet to say if COVID-19 will eventually be treated like the seasonal flu.

“There is no consensus on that yet,” he said.

Nograles said the steady decline in active cases and the hospitalization rate showed that vaccines work.

At a briefing, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said though the government does not yet use the term “en-

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been better, given the steady decline in COVID-19 cases and the stringent health protocols put in place by the government.

“While this will be the first time the Philippines is opening its doors for foreign leisure travelers since the start of the pandemic, the tourism industry has prepared for this development for close to two years. We look forward to welcoming our foreign visitors once again, especially with Metro Manila, the country's main international gateway, placed under Alert Level 2,” the DOT said.

Tourism workers have been vaccinated and the observance of health and safety protocols at every destination remains a priority. Almost 100 percent of tourism workers in major tourism islands received the primary dose in 2021.

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Kho, who was appointed to the poll body by President Rodrigo Duterte in 2018, said his stint "has been the most rewarding and enjoyable experience."

Guanzon, appointed as Comelec commissioner by the late President Benigno Aquino III in 2015, said she will retire with a “grateful heart” because of the "unwavering support" of the men and women of Comelec.

"I retire with a grateful heart because I know that you have kept me in your prayers whenever there is a difficult time and whenever the Commission is undergoing some crisis,” she said.

Guazon, days before her retirement, figured in a public spat with fellow commissioner Aimee Ferolino-Ampoloquio, the assigned writer of the first division tasked to tackle the consolidated disqualification cases against presidential aspirant Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. Guanzon accused Ferolino-Ampoloquio of delaying the release of the decision deliberately.

Ferolino-Ampoloquio, along with the rest of the sitting commissioners, attended the retirement ceremony.

She expressed hope that her friendship with the outgoing Comelec offi-

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"Because we were on lockdown, we are only communicating through our mobile phones. [But] we have a substantial number [of senators] and we intend to bring it to the floor and they said they will support it," he said.

He said some administration allies were reaching out to his colleagues in the Senate, however.

“I know some people are starting to reach out to other senators. We are just praying the truth will not be blocked," he said.

"I hope the Senate does not get divided. It will be tragic if the Senate becomes divided on a partisan basis. If the Senate is to be divided, it should be between truth and lies, and I hope my colleagues will side with the truth," he said.

Among the senators who have expressed support for the draft report are Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto and Senators Manny Pacquiao, Grace Poe, and Pia Cayetano.

“I fully support the Blue Ribbon Committee Report. Everything that Senator

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News

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2022

CONNECTOR PROJECT. Workers wear safety harnesses while installing scaffolding at the construction site of the NLEX-SLEX Connector Project on Antipolo St. and España Blvd. in Manila on Wednesday. The P23.3 billion project is an 8-kilometer, elevated four-lane toll expressway extending the NLEX southward from the end of Segment 10 in C3 Road, Caloocan City to PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila, and connecting to the Skyway Stage 3, and mostly traversing the PNR rail track.

PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

UN increases target funds for Odette victims THE United Nations has increased its fundraising target for victims of Typhoon Odette to $169 million as the Philippines struggles to recover from the devastating storm, the organization’s resident coordinator said Wednesday.

More than 400 people were killed and hundreds of thousands left homeless after Odette hit the archipelago as a super typhoon in December, ripping off roofs, shredding wooden houses and wiping out crops.

The UN initially sought $107.2 million for 530,000 people in the hardesthit areas in central and southern regions of the country flattened by the typhoon.

But UN Resident Coordinator in the Philippines Gustavo Gonzalez said more than 70 field assessments showed “humanitarian needs remain very high”.

The new target of $169 million would assist the 840,000 “most vulnerable people” in dire need of shelter, food, drinking water and sanitation facilities, Gonzalez said.

About 30 percent of the revised amount had been received, Gonzalez told AFP. Humanitarian groups have been working with the government to distribute aid.

But the challenges were “enormous”, said Gonzalez.

“Affected regions bore massive damage to infrastructure, agricultural land and the fishing sector, with local economies and livelihoods hit hard,” he said.

Around 1.7 million houses were destroyed or badly damaged in the typhoon -- 600,000 more than in 2013’s Super Typhoon Haiyan -- and tens of thousands of people remain in evacuation centers seven weeks after Odette made landfall.

Power disruptions or outages continued to plague 80 municipalities, he said. AFP

DA urged to act on agri product price increases

By Macon Ramos-Araneta SENATE Majority Leader Juan Miguel F. Zubiri yesterday raised the alarm over the unabated price increases of agricultural inputs, particularly of fertilizers, that have almost tripled in just 18 months.

“This is by far, the worst scenario that is besetting our farmers. I’ve been getting cries of help, particularly from the sugar industry sector,” Zubiri said.

The senator said that as early as October last year, he sounded off at the Department of Agriculture about the skyrocketing price of fertilizers.

“In fact, I approved the DA’s budget for 2022, with a colatilla that the DA should submit to the Senate a plan on how to address the problem on high fertilizer prices, and what concrete steps they should make to ensure a cap on fertilizers’ prices,” he said.

The agriculture department, he said, was expected to come up with an immediate plan, and medium-term and long term plans for the entire agriculture sector.

Lawmakers OK press freedom day on Aug. 30

Health workers reject virus risk classification

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HE Alliance of Health Workers (AHW) and its unionmembers nationwide have expressed their deep concern and desperation over Senate Bill No. 2421 or the proposed COVID-19 Benefits and Allowances for Health Workers Act of 2022.

AHW strongly objected to Section 5 of the bill which classifies health workers depending on their COVID-risk exposure.

“AHW recognizes the occupational hazards faced by all healthcare workers in the context of COVID-19 response in various settings. AHW’s objection on the said bill is based on the following reasons -- COVID-19 is airborne and aerosol transmission of the virus should not be ignored in all areas of the hospi-

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tals and health facilities,” the group said “Data showed that there are more COVID-19 infections among health workers assigned in non-COVID areas than in the COVID areas.”

“The risk exposure classification is divisive, unfairly treats, and discriminates the health workers thereby abandoning everyone’s value and safety. As health workers are at the forefront battling COVID-19,

their contribution is greatly valued because they put their health and lives to high risk. In waging the war against COVID-19, there is no moderate and low risk as every health worker’s life matters,” the group added.

The Senate bill, the workers said, also seeks to completely abolish COVID-19 benefits such as the special risk allowance (SRA), active hazard duty pay (AHDP) and meal, accommodation and transportation (MAT) allowance.

“These benefits are of great importance and help to all health workers as our salaries are insufficient to meet the basic needs especially now that prices of commodities and transportation are soaring,” the group said.

LAWMAKERS from the House of Representatives adopted a bill from the Senate which declared August 30 as “National Press Freedom Day.” Senate Bill 670 was adopted as an amendment to House Bill 9182. The bill was adopted during a plenary session in the House of Representatives on Wednesday.

Earlier, Senate Bill 670 was approved on final reading. The “National Press Freedom Day” bill was approved in honor of Marcelo H. del Pilar, the Filipino hero considered as the father of Philippine journalism.

August 30 will still be a working holiday. August 30, 1850 was the day Del Pilar was born.

Under the “National Press Freedom Day, all government agencies, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, government-owned and controlled corporations, local government units as well as the private sector, will be mandated to allot time for employees to participate in activities to be conducted within their respective offices.

The measure will also direct the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, government and private media organizations, to lead public and private educational institutions in activities to raise awareness on the role and importance of the press.

The information-related activities will also highlight rights of the press practitioners and their social responsibilities.

Japanese nabbed for undeclared money at NAIA

By Joel E. Zurbano

“NO” TO OIL PRICE HIKE.

Demonstrators led by Piston hold a rally before the House of Representatives on February 2 in Quezon City to protest oil price hikes.

The protesters also brought a letter to House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco calling for the passage of House bills to eliminate oil taxes and excise tax.

Manny Palmero

BUREAU of Customs agents arrested in Ninoy Aquino International Airport two Japanese nationals for trying to smuggle two travel bags containing 100,645, 000 yen (P45 million).

The foreigners identified, as Yuzuru Marumo and Masayuki Aoyagi, both from Narita, Japan, are now detained and will be charged with smuggling (undeclared) of foreign currency before the Pasay City prosecutor’s office.

NAIA - Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service chief Verne Enciso said they arrested the foreigners following information from the International Police that two Japanese nationals were scheduled to arrive in Manila carrying “huge” amounts of foreign currencies.

“The foreigners arrived at the NAIA terminal 2 onboard Philippine Airlines flight PR-427 from Narita around 5:38 p.m. Tuesday and they were met and escorted by four airport policemen upon arrival,” said Enciso.

Immigration increases operational capacity to 80% in Metro Manila

By Vito Barcelo THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has increased its operational capacity to 80 percent in all its Metro Manila offices.

In an advisory, Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said that the move is in the wake of the gov-

ernment’s decision to downgrade to Alert Level 2 the quarantine status in the metropolis.

Morente added that fully-vaccinated clients are no longer required to secure slots via the bureau’s online appointment system before they could transact business at the agency.

Persons entering the BI’s offices

should present their vaccination cards or certificates or they will not be allowed entry.

However, Morente said that aliens, including the fully-vaccinated, who intend to file their annual report at the BI main office in Intramuros, Manila are still required to apply for slots in the online appointment system.

He added that the online appointment requirement also applies to all unvaccinated and partially vaccinated individuals who have businesses to transact at the BI main building.

Morente also stated that BI offices in the National Capital Region will continue to operate from 7 am to 5:30 pm daily under Alert Level 2.

Odette-hit community in Bacolod goes solar to address power woes

By Willie Casas

OUR LADY OF CANDLES. Ilonggo Devotees attend the mass at the Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral, the national shrine of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Candles. Devotees believe the Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria can make miracles thus, devotees convene to light “perdon” candles. Iloilo City Mayor’s Office

A SMALL farming community in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental is ending its long-term lack of proper access to electricity by installing a 1.6 kW solar photovoltaic system, which was inaugurated on Wednesday.

Members of the Association of Small Farmers of Purok Ilaya (ASFa-PI) said that they reside in privately-owned land that has not been reached by electricity posts and grid connections.

“Our community members considered tapping neighboring areas to have power, but we were told we would pay

twice the amount charged to the rest of Bacolodnons, on top of the dangers of setting up such lines. Now, with our own solar power system, we not only get to have our own electricity, we also become a testimony to how clean energy can benefit communities like us that are often marginalized.

We are thankful since this project will directly aid our members who do not have access to electricity. We can also use the solar power system to establish a hydroponics system in our association’s greenhouse,” Ludy Rivera, the chairperson of ASFa-PI, said in their statement.

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News

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2022

JOYRIDE.

Lakas-CMD Chairperson and vice-presidential aspirant Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte greets her supporters at Barangay 3, National Highway, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur during the second day of HER ‘Mahalin Natin Ang Pilipinas Ride’ on Wednesday (see story below).

Ver Noveno

Poll codes deposited with BSP

By Vito Barcelo

T

HE source codes for the automated election system (AES) to be used in the May 9 national elections have been deposited at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) for safekeeping, according to the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

Comelec officials led by Executive Director Bartolome Sinocruz and lawyer John Rex Laudiangco turned over the metal boxes containing the source codes to BSP on Wednesday.

Sinocruz and Laudiangco were accompanied by BSP Managing Director Rosabel Guerrero, Comelec spokes-

UniTeam lauds PNP for ending solicitation scam

By Rey E. Requejo THE Partido Federal ng Pilipinas on Wednesday lauded the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group following the arrest of two suspects allegedly involved in the illegal solicitation of millions of pesos in campaign contributions for the UniTeam.

Retired Gen. Thompson Lantion, secretary-general of the PFP, stressed the police did a great job in stopping the criminals from taking advantage of the people’s genuine support and love for UniTeam of presidential candidate Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and his running mate, Davao City Mayor Sara “Inday” Duterte, by asking for huge campaign contributions from unsuspecting victims.

“We commend the leadership of PNP chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos and PNP-CIDG chief Maj. Gen. Albert Ferro for a job well done. We hope that the exploitation of our countrymen, especially the millions of BBMSara UniTeam supporters, will stop,” Lantion said.

Ferro identified the arrested suspects as Reynaldo Llorin, 64; and Rolly Balazon, 53, both residents of Omicron Street, RT Gonzales Village, Quezon City.

Two of their cohorts, identified as Isidro Sososco, councilor of Bgy. Aurelio, San Jose, Dinagat Island; and Ma. Buen Bajar Castillo, who is now running for municipal councilor of San Jose, Dinagat Island, managed to escape.

person James Jimenez, representatives from the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting, and select media members in depositing the source codes inside the BSP vault.

Jimenez said the source code is the heart and soul of the automated election system, adding: “We have the source

code here where it’s protected from all dangers and gives us a guarantee that the source code that we will be using on election day is trustworthy.”

Guerrero said the particular compartment where the AES source codes are stored can be opened only by Comelec.

“It would be the executive director who has that key and the combination lock, which is also under the sole responsibility of the Comelec. The BSP cannot have access to that. We don’t know that combination, we don’t have the locks. So that will ensure the integrity of the source code. Nobody can open that and can have access to that except Comelec,” she said.

The Comelec and BSP signed on January 31 an escrow agreement for the safekeeping of the AES source code in relation to the May 2022 polls.

Under Republic Act 9369 to ensure free, orderly, honest, peaceful, credible, and informed elections, the Comelec is mandated to place in escrow the source codes with the BSP for safekeeping.

Previously, in a virtual event for the signing of the escrow agreement between the BSP and the Comelec on Monday, BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno said the central bank has kept source codes for four elections already, conducted in 2010, 2013, 2016, and 2019.

Members of Bayan Southern Tagalog Region protest in front of the Commission on Elections building, declaring their support for retiring Commissioner Rowena Guanzon and asking the poll body to immediately release the decision on the disqualification case of exsenator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday.

Danny Pata

SENATORIAL aspirant and former Vice President Jejomar Binay on Wednesday said the government must prepare and provide help for hospitals and health facilities in provinces in the event cases of COVID-19 Omicron variant rise again.

“The national government can provide provincial hospitals and health facilities with the basic tools to fight the surge: medicines, equipment, and manpower,” he said.

Binay added that if needed, the national government can deploy health workers from Metro Manila and other areas with low infection cases to these provinces.

“Public hospitals and health centers in the provinces operate with little budgets and lack facilities, medicines, and health workers. The national government must help them,” said Binay.

At the same time, the former Vice President said the vaccination drive should be intensified in these areas to give residents more protection against the Omicron variant.

“It’s also important to vaccinate more people. The vaccination rate is still low in most of these areas,” he said.

Binay said hospitals and health facilities are mainly located in Metro Manila and key areas of Luzon and this imbalance “has not been addressed over the years.”

“Long-term, this imbalance must be addressed. We need to provide funds to build more hospitals and other health facilities in the provinces, upgrade their facilities, ensure the availability of medicine, and provide decent wages for health workers,” he said.

Binay earlier led the turnover of COVID-19 vaccines donated by the Makati City government to local government units in Malvar, Batangas and Meycauayan in Bulacan.

The donation is in line with the city government’s sister-LGU program.

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

Sara asks Mindanaoans to back tandem with BBM ON THE second day of her monthlong on-the-road campaign, Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (CMD) vice presidential aspirant and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte on Wednesday strongly urged Filipinos in the south to support her tandem with presidential hopeful and former Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Duterte met with her supporters and well-wishers on Wednesday morning at

By Joel E. Zurbano

Ping: Marijuana for medical use okay with a law

BACKING GUANZON.

By Maricel V. Cruz

Binay: National gov’t must help prov’l hospitals

Barangay 3, National Highway at San Francisco, Agusan del Sur when she made her humble appeal to support the UniTeam led by Marcos of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP).

“Salamat sa inyong pagsuporta sa administrasyong Duterte (Thank you for your support to the Duterte administration),” she said in Bisaya, referring to the current administration of her father, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

“Magkampanya ako sa mga hindi pa

kumbinsido sa pagsuporta sa Bongbong Marcos-Sara Duterte UniTeam (I will seek the support of those who are still not convinced to back the Bongbong MarcosSara Duterte UniTeam),” added the lady mayor, who was holding a Philippine flag.

She later offered the flag to her supporters here to promote nationalism.

Duterte, who serves as chairperson of Lakas-CMD, also thanked local residents for the love that they have shown her family.

PARTIDO Reporma presidential bet Sen. Panfilo Lacson stressed on Wednesday he is open to the proposed use of marijuana strictly for medical purposes.

“I am keeping an open mind on it. I am even supportive of the idea. Once the appropriate law is passed, this will be good for our people’s health,” he said.

However, Lacson maintained he is not open to legalizing the use of marijuana for entertainment.

He said the proper procedures must be observed for marijuana, considered an illegal substance under Republic Act 9165, to become legal.

“I am open to legalizing the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes, not entertainment. And the proper processes must be followed,” said Lacson.

Meanwhile, the senator said he did not intend to become a soldier and policeman in the first place, which eventually paved the way for his successful career in public service.

He originally planned on becoming a lawyer because it was his childhood dream to join the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) as an agent, he said in an interview with broadcast journalist Malou Mangahas.

“I wanted to be a lawyer because I wanted to become an NBI agent. That was my childhood ambition. But, you know, sometimes a twist of fate happens to us),” Lacson said.

Isko: Fiber optic backbone to help fight disasters PRESIDENTIAL candidate and Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso on Wednesday said if he is elected president in the May 9 elections, his administration will give priority in establishing a national fiber optic backbone to boost the country’s communication capability, especially during times of natural calamities.

“I have said about a few months ago

that we will build our communication backbone, from the tip in the north and south, all the way, Luzon Visayas, Mindanao, via fiber optic,” Moreno said, during the “Ikaw Na Ba presidential” interviews on radio DZBB. Moreno said having a national fiber backbone will connect our islands and provide stable and reliable intercon-

nectivity that is crucial accelerating human and economic growth and enabling the Philippines to catch up with the modern world, not to mention its importance during times of calamities.

The subject was first broached by Moreno in November last year during a dialogue with hundreds of youths and students in Binangonan, Rizal. Rey E. Requejo

Nuns, VP Leni supporters sue doctor for cyber libel

By Rio N. Araja

SUPPORTERS of Vice President Leni Robredo on Wednesday filed multiple counts of cyber libel against Dr. Jack Arroyo Jr. before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office for an allegedly false and malicious post in his Face-

book account.

The plaintiffs were participants in the “The Caravan of Hope” in Marikina City in October last year, who were allegedly accused by Arroyo of being paid to join the motorcade in support of presidential bet Robredo.

Among the complainants were Sisters Mary Florence Bautista and Gemma Dinglasan of the Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd, a medical doctor, and others who requested anonymity.

The nuns were represented by their legal counsel Tristan Arnesto.

GRATITUDE. Fifty Typhoon Odette victims from Surigao City extend their gratitude to

former House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano after receiving P10,000 in cash aid each under the Sampung Libong Pag-Asa program. This includes fishermen, farmers, and urban poor residents. To date, more than 15,700 Filipino families have received the 10K Ayuda in just one year. Norman Cruz

Opinion Ready for the ‘pandemic exit’?

THIS week marks the start of the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

As we look back, the past two years have had their share of surges and letups. The emergence of two highly transmissible variants―Delta and Omicron―tested the efficacy of our COVID-19 response. The trends have also become fairly predictable, as we have seen when the Omicron entered the country during the holidays. With more than half of the population vaccinated, the Omicron surge produced mostly mild cases.

With these developments, many surmise that Omicron marks the end of the pandemic. We truly hope the same.

However, we take into consideration that the mild cases are attributed to the COVID-19 vaccines. Meanwhile, the unvaccinated population remains prone to becoming critically ill once afflicted with COVID-19.

As daily cases in the country decline again, the question to ask is, is it right to take the road now to “pandemic exit”? Are we ready to treat this virus as endemic?

Health experts may be in a better position to tell. However, what is clear today is that there is a lot that needs to be improved as we prepare to slowly exit from the pandemic. For one, vaccinations must continue until everyone else is protected. This means that the information drive against vaccine hesitancy must be expanded in order to reach all corners and islands of the country. Pediatric vaccination should be commenced in all regions and provinces as soon as we can. Booster vaccination should also be made easily available most especially to the vulnerable population. All of this implies the need to secure continuous supply of COVID-19 vaccines to meet the country’s demands.

Second, hospitals and health facilities must be equipped and primed in cases of surge. We need to reduce attrition in hospitals by giving health care workers their well-deserved pay. Likewise, we need to encourage more health professionals to work for our hospitals by ensuring decent

work environments and fair compensation.

This includes ensuring adequate supply of PPEs and reasonable support to health workers who may get sick. We also need to boost genome surveillance capacity in order to detect presence or entry of any new variant and determine extent of transmission timely and promptly.

If there is anything more contagious than the coronavirus itself, it is the rampant misinformation and disinformation.

Lastly, we need to make sure that the public is well-informed. If there is anything more contagious than the coronavirus itself, it is the rampant misinformation and disinformation. The public needs to thoroughly understand the importance of constantly adhering to minimum public health standards as we transition from higher to lower alert levels. Public health protocols will definitely remain as long as COVID-19 persists.

What is important is that we need to learn to live with the virus. As I said before, it is time to consider the likelihood of COVID-19 to stay for long. We need to transition and prepare for the new normal.

The past two years made significant, deep, and extensive dents in many aspects of our lives. Economically, many of us may no longer have the capacity to endure the restrictive conditions posed by the pandemic. Socially, many of us long to return to pre-pandemic normal, perhaps to keep our sanity.

Eventually, we will really have to strike a balance between COVID-19 risks and our need to return to normal. Hence, I urge the government to come up with evidence-based plans and policies that must accompany the eased restrictions.

Meanwhile, I strongly urge the public to be more cautious of information circulating and live more prudently. The risks of COVID-19 still looms despite the dropping of cases. I believe that we can overcome this pandemic by aligning our mindset towards disease prevention and health promotion. This is not impossible.

Practicing conscientiousness is key.

No golden age of infrastructure

ARGUABLY the most extravagant of the many extravagant claims made by presidential candidate Rodrigo Duterte in the course of his campaign was the promise that he would make the Philippine experience a Golden Age of Infrastructure if he were to win the presidency.

Under his administration, the level of government spending on infrastructure would reach at least 5 percent of the GDP (gross domestic product) - the infrastructure-spending-to-GDP ratio considered by the World Bank to be the desideration for rapid economic development. Candidate Duterte declared that his administration would spend more on infrastructure than any of the past administrations; truly a Golden Age was what this country’s infrastructure would enter if he won the election, he promised.

President Duterte having failed to deliver on almost all of his campaign promises - elimination of the illegal drugs trade, crime and corruption within six months, a pivot away from the Philippine-American alliance, an end to the communist insurgency and a governmental-structure shift to federalism - his colleagues and supporters are claiming, now that legacy assessment time has arrived, that the nation did experience a Golden Age of Infrastructure during Mr. Duterte’s nearly six years in office and that during that period the government’s principal infrastructure agencies, DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways) and DTr (Department of Transportation) have put in place for more highways, roads, bridges, airports, seaports and government buildings than the preceding administrations.

These claims need to be validated. If DPWH and DTr performance data validate the claims, well and good, and the nation has indeed been witnessing a Golden Age of Infrastructure. But failure of the two agencies’ performance data to provide validation of the claims will mean the shooting down of yet another Duterte campaign promise.

At best, those claims need to be verified.

That the Duterte administration has done much for this country’s infrastructure cannot be denied; DBM (Department of Budget and Management) data on releases of funds for infrastructure projects clearly indicate a desire on the Duterte administration’s part to achieve the 5 percent infrastructurespending-to-GDP ratio.

To speak, however, of the installation of a Golden Age of Infrastructure in this country is a bit of a stretch. It is to overstate the infrastructure accomplishment of the Duterte administration, ‘Golden Age’ is one of those conceptual phrases that should not be used lightly.

Most of the high-impact infrastructure projects completed during the last six years have consisted of highway and airport projects in the Mega ManilaCentral Luzon area that either were ready for implementation in 2016 or were completed during the rest of the Duterte administration. These projects, which have enormously facilitated movement between NCR (National Capital Region), Calabarzon and Central Luzon, were undertaken and completed by the private sector and therefore cannot be counted as parts of the Duterte Administration’s Build, Build, Build program. When they drive along SCTEX, TPLEX and the Skyways, motorists think of companies like San Miguel Corporation and Metro Pacific-Citra, not of DPWH and DTr. Build, Build, Build has done very

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2022

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mst.daydesk@gmail.com

EDITORIAL

Double, double toil and trouble

F

ROM start to finish, the Pharmally mess has been a witch’s brew of corruption, now coming to a boil with the release of a Senate Blue Ribbon report that ascribes blame to the highest elected official in the land.

The key question from the start was, how did an under-capitalized startup with no track record whatsoever manage to corner more than P11 billion in government contracts for pandemic supplies―such as face masks and face shields―at prices well above what was available in the market at the time?

The personalities involved suggest the answer.

A friend of the President, Michael Yang, a Chinese businessman from Davao who was later made presidential economic adviser despite his nationality, provided funding for a company that was capitalized at only P625,000, and made some key introductions as well.

Another key figure, Lloyd Christopher Lao, was a volunteer election lawyer for the President’s campaign in 2016. In appointing him to head the Procurement Service of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM-PS) in 2017, the President said he was repaying a debt.

Through a series of Senate hearings, we now know that it was Lao who authorized billions of pesos of purchases from Pharmally, without the benefit of competitive bidding―or even due diligence to ensure the government was not at a disadvantage.

Making all this possible was the trans-

fer of P42 billion from the Department of Health, headed by the indestructible Secretary Francisco Duque III, to the DBM-PS, presumably to speed up the purchase of face masks, face shields and personal protective equipment.

There will be a price to pay for the Pharmally mess.

The President and his allies sought to justify the contracts as emergency purchases allowable under the Bayanihan law on the national response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but a series of Senate hearings revealed just how disadvantaged the government was by these deals, and how key Pharmally executives spent their obscene profits on luxury cars―instead of plowing the funds back into the company, if it were a legitimate business.

Now, in a 113-page partial report, the Senate Blue Ribbon committee found that President Duterte betrayed the public trust with his actions related to the Pharmally contracts.

The committee recommended plunder, graft and other criminal and administrative charges against Duque, former government officials, and Pharmally

executives.

Although the President is immune from suit while he is in office, charges may be brought against him after his term ends later this year, the panel said.

“At some point after his term of office, charges must be considered against President Rodrigo Duterte for what has transpired in this great anomaly,” the report said.

“After all, he was the one who appointed all the people who approved these transactions and aggressively protected and defended them when they were caught in this horrible crime against our people. In the course of doing so, the President attempted to diminish the Senate and COA (Commission on Audit), institutions that safeguard our democracy and integrity,” it added.

The Blue Ribbon committee also recommended the deportation of Yang for his role in the Pharmally deals. The draft report alleged that Yang violated the tax laws, which justifies the filing of criminal charges against him, his declaration as an undesirable alien, and immediate deportation.

The President and his allies will no doubt dismiss the Blue Ribbon report as being politically motivated, particularly as it comes during an election year.

But when the hurly-burly’s done and the battle’s lost and won, there will be a price to pay for the Pharmally mess.

It remains to be seen, however, who will ultimately lose his head in this tragedy of corruption.

Yuka Saso’s citizenship choice TWO weeks ago, Fil-Japanese golfing star Yuka Saso chose Japanese citizenship instead of remaining a Filipino citizen to represent the country. It was later revealed that she apparently chose the Japanese passport to make her travel a lot easier because professional golf indeed requires a tremendous amount of travelling. A Filipino passport gets a holder into 66 countries and territories without a visa while a Japanese passport together with that of a Singapore passport are two of the most powerful passports in the world. The two passports allow a holder to enter 190 countries without a visa.

One could therefore say that Yuka chose the Japanese passport for convenience.

She said however, that whatever country she represents, she is still a Filipino. That may be so but it is not as simple as that anymore. Being a citizen of a country requires certain mandatory duties and obligations as we all know. Furthermore, whatever honors or golf tournaments that she will win from now on, it will be as a Japanese citizen and not as a Filipino. For instance, she can no longer represent the country in the Olympic games. Filipino supporters can still cheer her victories but can no longer wave the Philippine flag.

In a just concluded LPGA tournament in the United States where she ended third last Sunday, she was referred to as Yuka Saso of Japan already. So, whatever she says, it will never be the same.

This is not to say that she should not have done it. In fact, many would even probably consider her decision as a no brainer. But considering that she is still proclaiming her Filipino ethnicity indicates little for this country’s railroad system and the Manila-North and Manila-South rail projects remain incomplete. During the last six years, very few additions have been made to the list of airports and seaports capable of accomodating the heightened needs of the 21st century Philippine economy.

DPWH and DTr need to program a summary of the major Build, Build, Build project they have completed or nearly

that she must have struggled in making her decision. Maybe deep in her heart she still considers herself a Filipino. It is so unlike Fil-Australian champion golfer Jason Day whose mother is a Filipino who never once publicly acknowledged his Filipino ethnicity. It was left to the media to do it for him.

Is it for convenience?

When it comes to international travel, holding a Philippine passport can present some problems as many Filipinos who have traveled will attest. A Filipino traveler for instance must have to plan his or her travel routes and itineraries a lot more extensively because there are certain countries that require visas just to transit. One might also stumble on very suspicious, arrogant and inquisitive border officials with a lot of questions that are sometimes insulting. Such are some of the travails when traveling with a Philippine passport.

But for Filipino athletes who have acquired international star status, international travel should not pose serious problems even if they hold a Filipino passport. Filipino star athletes like boxing champion Senator Manny Pacquiao and renowned pool champion Efren Reyes who have achieved international name recognition did not seem to have any problems traveling abroad to box or participate in pool tournaments.

Perhaps, Yuka should have followed their example. Long-term, multiple-re entry visas, for instance, could be applied for. Since most of the professional golf tournaments are played in the United States and Europe, and both issue long term multiple reentry visas, Yuka should not have any problem getting them. After all, she won the United States Ladies Golf Open Championships which is one of completed, broken down into highways, roads, bridges, airports, seaports and government buildings. Such a summary will enable the Filipino people to decide whether they have been witnessing the dawning of a Golden Age of Infrastructure during the last six years.

My guess is that after receiving the summary the Filipino people will decide that the Golden Age of Infrastructure has come to pass.

the toughest in ladies’ golf. This gave her enough name recognition especially if she keeps on winning other golf tournaments.

She might still encounter certain travel inconveniences but that should not be enough reason for her to give up her Filipino citizenship if she really wanted to.

Senator Manny Pacquiao and Efren Reyes who have given much pride and honor to the country never gave up their citizenship and have stayed in the country as two of our country’s great sportsmen. EJ Obiena, our Olympic pole vaulter who is now battling PATAFA to his credit has maintained that he will continue to represent the country in spite of invitations from other countries to represent them. Whether he will be able to represent the country due to his ongoing tussle with his athletic federation is another matter.

Yuka is not the only one that got away.

We have chess master Wesley So and Alex Pagulayan, another pool champion who is now representing Canada.

Happily, there are still many Filipino athletes in other disciplines campaigning as Filipino citizens overseas bringing pride and honor to the country. The loss of Yuka is unfortunate for a country hungry for true-blue Filipino athletes willing to stick it out regardless of the many challenges that they have to navigate. The reward for those who stay is the eternal gratitude and adulation of the Filipino people. Senator Pacquiao, Hidilyn Diaz and Efren Reyes are the best examples.

Nonetheless, let’s all wish Yuka great success in her quest for golf greatness.

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Reviving the golden era of public works

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher ManilaStandard

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Omicron sub-variant found in 57 countries

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.

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

A SUB-VARIANT of the highly contagious Omicron coronavirus strain, which some studies indicate could be even more infectious than the original version, has been detected in 57 countries, the WHO said.

The fast-spreading and heavily mutated Omicron variant has rapidly become the dominant variant worldwide since it was first detected in southern Africa 10 weeks ago.

In its weekly epidemiological update, the World Health Organization said that the variant, which accounts for over 93 percent of all coronavirus specimens collected in the past month, counts several sub-lineages: BA.1, BA.1.1, BA.2 and BA.3.

The BA.1 and BA.1.1 – the first versions identified – still account for over 96 percent of all

the Omicron sequences uploaded to the GISAID global science initiative, it said.

But there has been a clear rise in cases involving BA.2, which counts several different mutations from the original – including on the spike protein that dots the virus’s surface and is key to entering human cells.

“BA.2- designated sequences have been submitted to GISAID from 57 countries to date,” WHO said, adding that in some countries, the sub-variant now accounted for over half of all Omicron sequences gathered.

The UN health agency said little was known yet about the differences between the sub-variants, and called for studies into its characteristics, including its transmissibility, how good it is at dodging immune protections and its virulence. AFP

SEC Memorandum Circular No. 1 Series of 2022 SUBJECT : ADOPTION OF PHILIPPINE STANDARDS ON AUDITING (PSAs) and PHILIPPINE FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS (PFRSs) The Commission, in its meeting held on 27 January 2022, approved the adoption of the following pronouncements as part of SEC’s rules and regulations on financial reporting: A. PSAs Pronouncement

Effectivity date

1.

PSA 250 (Revised) Consideration of Laws and Regulations in an Audit of Financial statements including Related Conforming Amendments to Other Philippine Standards

Effective for audits of financial statements for periods beginning on or after December 15, 2020.

2.

PSA 540 (Revised) Auditing Accounting Estimates and Related Disclosures and Conforming and Consequential Amendments to Other Philippine Standards Arising from PSA 540 (Revised)

Effective for audits of financial statements for periods beginning on or after December 15, 2020.

3.

Philippine Standard on Auditing 315 (Revised 2019), Identifying and Assessing the Risks of Material Misstatement and, Conforming and Consequential Amendments to Other Philippine Standards Arising from PSA 315 (Revised 2019)

Effective for audits of financial statements for periods beginning on or after December 15, 2021 .

4.

Philippine Standard on Related Services 4400 (Revised), Agreedupon Procedures Engagements

Effective for agreed-upon procedures engagement are agreed on or after January 1, 2022.

5.

Suite of Quality Standards a. Philippine Standard on Quality Management 1 (Previously Philippine Standard on Quality Control 1), Quality Management for Firms that Perform Audits or Reviews of Financial Statements, or Other Assurance or Related Services Engagements

Effective as of December 15, 2022.

b. Philippine Standard on Quality Management 2, Engagement Quality Reviews

Effective for audits and reviews of financial statements for periods beginning on or after December 15, 2022; and effective for other assurance and related services engagements beginning on or after December 15, 2022.

c. Philippine Standard on Auditing 220 (Revised), Quality Management for anAudit of Financial Statements

Effective for audits of financial statements for periods beginning on or after December 15, 2022.

B. PFRSs Pronouncement

Effectivity date

1.

Annual Improvements to PFRS Standards 2018-2020

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1 , 2022.

2.

Amendments to PAS 1, Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non-current

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2023.

3.

Amendments to PAS 16, Property, Plant and Equipment: Proceeds before Intended Use

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2022.

4.

Amendments to PAS 37, Onerous Contracts - Costs of Fulfilling a Contract

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2022.

5. Amendments to PFRS 17, Insurance Contracts

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2023.

6.

Amendments to PFRS 3, Reference to the Conceptual Framework

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2022.

7.

Amendments to PFRS 16, Covid-19Related Rent Concessions beyond 30 June 2021

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after April 1, 2021 .

8. Amendments to PAS 1 and PFRS Practice Statement 2, Disclosure of Accounting Policies

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2023.

9.

Amendments to PAS 8, Definition of Accounting Estimates

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2023.

10. Amendments to PAS 12, Deferred Tax related to Assets and Liabilities arising from a Single Transaction

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2023.

All of the foregoing pronouncements have been adopted by the Auditing and Assurance Standards Council and Financial Reporting Standards Council and approved by the Board of Accountancy and Professional Regulation Commission and published in the Official Gazette.

Issued this 27 January 2022 at Pasay City, Philippines.

For the Commission:

EMILIO B. AQUINO Chairman

(MS-FEB. 3, 2022)

VIGIL. South Education Center Academy students and local activists participate in a candlelight vigil for BLACK the victims of a CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW school shooting in front of South Education Center Academy in Richfield, Minnesota on February 1, 2022. Richfield Police Chief Jay Henthorne has confirmed that one student has died and another is in critical condition following the shooting just outside the school. Two suspects have been arrested. AFP

US to send fighter jets, warship to assist UAE

T

HE United States will deploy a guided missile destroyer and state-of-theart fighter jets to help defend the United Arab Emirates after a series of missile attacks by Yemeni rebels, a US statement said Wednesday.

The deployment, to “assist the UAE against the current threat,” follows a phone call between Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, the US embassy in the UAE said.

The UAE, part of the Saudi-led coalition fight-

ing Yemen’s Iran-backed Huthi rebels, suffered its third missile attack in consecutive weeks on Monday.

The guided missile destroyer USS Cole will partner with the UAE Navy and make a port call in Abu Dhabi, the statement said, while the US will also deploy fifth-generation fighter planes.

Other actions include “continuing to provide early warning intelligence,” it added.

The rebel attacks have opened a new front in Yemen’s seven-year war, which has killed hundreds of thousands directly or indirectly and displaced millions.

Three foreign workers were killed in a droneand-missile assault targeting Abu Dhabi’s oil facilities and airport on January 17, triggering a salvo of deadly air strikes in retaliation.

On January 24, US forces stationed at Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra air base fired Patriot inter-

Sri Lanka gets $500m loan to pay for oil SRI LANKA was handed temporary relief from energy shortages and rolling blackouts on Wednesday with a $500 million loan from India to finance urgent oil purchases for the cashstrapped nation.

The island’s economic woes have left thermal power generators unable to keep the lights on and disrupted transport networks, as traders run desperately low on foreign currency to fund imports.

Frequent breakdowns at a huge coal power plant have compounded unannounced electricity cuts and households are also struggling to source cooking gas and kerosene.

Officials said a formal agreement was being signed on Wednesday after two weeks of talks, in addition to a recent $915 million in foreign exchange support.

An Indian diplomat said talks were under-

SWAB FOR RIDE.

Health workers conduct a COVID-19 test on a commuter at a train station in Bekasi, east of Jakarta, on February 2, 2022, as an early government measure to detect the spread of the virus, considering that the Omicron variant has infected tens of thousands. AFP

ABC suspends Whoopi over Holocaust talk

US ACTOR Whoopi Goldberg way on another $1 billion credit line to fund was susurgently needed food and medicine imports pended for from India. two weeks “The $500 million is for Sri Lanka to puron Tuesday chase petroleum products from Indian supplifrom the ers,” the official said. talk show Sri Lanka’s economy is also seeing a scarshe hosts for city of rice, automotive parts and cement, saying the with supermarkets forced to ration some Whoopi Goldberg Nazi genostaple foods. cide of six million Jews “was not The shortages pushed food inflation to a reabout race.” cord 25 percent last month.

Despite an apology from the host Tourism is a key foreign exchange earner for of “The View” talk show, ABC News Sri Lanka but the sector has collapsed in the President Kim Godwin said she had wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. decided it was not enough.

The government has shut overseas diplomat“Effective immediately, I am susic missions to save money and a broad ban on pending Whoopi Goldberg for two imports has been in effect for nearly two years weeks for her wrong and hurtful comto conserve foreign currency. AFP ments,” Godwin said in a statement posted on the TV channel’s public relations Twitter account.

“While Whoopi has apologized, I’ve asked her to take time to reflect be recognised once again for the excellence of and learn about the impact of her South Korea’s weapons systems,” the South Kocomments,” Godwin said. rean president’s office said.

The Oscar-winning TV personalLast month, the United States approved a ity said on ABC’s “The View” that $2.56 billion deal to supply Egypt with 12 Suthe Holocaust involved “two white per Hercules C-130 military transport aircraft groups of people.” and related equipment as well as air defence “On today’s show, I said the Horadar systems. locaust ‘is not about race, but about The US deal came despite persistent concerns man’s inhumanity to man.’ I should over Egypt’s human rights record. have said it is about both,” Goldberg In September, the US State Department put wrote in a Twitter apology late Mon$130 million of military aid to Egypt on hold beday. cause of a lack of improvement on human rights.

“The Jewish people around the For the current fiscal year, which began on world have always had my supOctober 1, President Joe Biden’s administration port and that will never waiver. I’m budgeted $1.4 billion for aid to Egypt – most of sorry for the hurt I have caused,” the it military-related – the same figure as last year.

66-year-old added.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, a forAfter Goldberg’s comments, critics mer army chief who rose to power after leading pointed out that race was central to the overthrow of his Islamist predecessor Mothe genocide, with the Nazis believhamed Morsi, has rejected human rights coning themselves to be a master race. cerns. AFP “No @WhoopiGoldberg, the #Holocaust was about the Nazi’s systematic annihilation of the Jewish people – who they deemed to be an inferior race,” tweeted Jonathan Greenblatt, head of the Anti Defamation League.

“They dehumanized them and used this racist propaganda to justify slaughtering six million Jews. Holocaust distortion is dangerous,” he added.

The US Holocaust Museum posted on Twitter that “racism was central to Nazi ideology.”

“Jews were not defined by religion, but by race. Nazi racist beliefs fueled genocide and mass murder,” it said, without referencing Goldberg’s comCYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK ments. AFP

Egypt signs $1.7b deal for South Korean howitzers EGYPT has signed a $1.66 billion deal for South Korean howitzers, the military said Wednesday, a week after Washington approved a major arms sale to Cairo.

The memorandum of understanding was signed on Tuesday during a ceremony attended

by Defense Minister Mohamed Zaki and the head of South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration, Kang Eun-Ho. The deal provides for “joint management and manufacture of the K9A1 howitzer system at the factories of the (Egyptian) National Authority for Military Production in cooperation with South Korean firm Hanwha,” the Egyptian military said in a statement.

The statement did not disclose the value of the deal but South Korea said it was worth more than two trillion South Korean won (around $1.66 billion).

“This contract exceeded 2 trillion won, not only recording the largest export for K9 self-propelled howitzers, but it also served as an opportunity to

ceptors and scrambled to bunkers as two ballistic missiles were shot down over the city.

And on Monday, a third missile attack was thwarted during the visit to the UAE of Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

The US, a supporter of the Saudi-led coalition, intends the deployment to be “a clear signal that the United States stands with the UAE as a long-standing strategic partner,” the statement said. AFP

Business PSEi February 2, 2022

TOP GAINERS LAST PRICE

% CHANGE CHANGE

1 2 3 4 5

LR ABS DIZ FCG OPM

1.56 12.42 5.44 0.9 0.013

0.16 1.08 0.43 0.07 0.001

11.43% 9.52% 8.58% 8.43% 8.33%

6 7 8 9 10

ALCPC ATNB ATN NOW MAC

109.9 0.84 0.85 1.33 5.69

7.9 0.06 0.06 0.07 0.29

7.75% 7.69% 7.59% 5.56% 5.37%

TOP LOSERS LAST PRICE

% CHANGE CHANGE

1 2 3 4 5

TFC FAF COAL IPO VITA

32.95 0.62 0.26 6.85 0.63

-14.05 -0.07 -0.025 -0.64 -0.05

-29.89% -10.14% -8.77% -8.54% -7.35%

6 7 8 9 10

PA PHR TBGI PHA ANS

2.81 0.7 0.355 0.54 7.8

-0.18 -0.04 -0.02 -0.03 -0.4

-6.02% -5.41% -5.33% -5.26% -4.88%

MOST ACTIVE 1

ALI

VOLUME 17,667,400

VALUE (PHP) 658,425,710

2 3 4

BDO SMPH BPI

4,471,750 10,282,100 3,487,990

620,629,625 371,077,805 351,420,986

5 6 7

SPNEC SECB SM

149,844,000 2,819,660 303,110

339,562,960 311,426,975 295,141,470

8 9 10

ICT AC MONDE

1,259,240 282,440 14,048,800

254,526,758 251,307,705 232,297,598

Stock market cheers laxer restrictions; SPNEC climbs

S

hare prices rose Wednesday on declining COVID-19 cases and the return of the capital region to less rigid lockdown measures.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index jumped 97.34 points, or 1.3 percent to 7,458.99 on a value turnover of P7.8 bilFebruary 2, 81, 2022 lion.Wednesday, Gainers beat losers, 123 to with 47 issues unchanged.

1,525,787,296 97.34 PTS. TOTAL VOLUME TRADES 100,066 Solar Philippines TOTAL Nueva Ecija 7,841,382,548.89 Corp., TOTAL VALUE (IN PHP) which is building what its being touted as123 ADVANCES DECLINES the biggest solar farm in Southeast Asia,8147 7,458.99 UNCHANGED advanced 4.5 percent to P2.32, while e xchange r ate BankFoforeign the Philippine Islands, the thirdBangko Sentral in ng Pilipinas • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022 2.6 largest bank terms of assets, added Currency Unit US Dollar Peso percent to P100.60.

United States Dollar BDO Unibank Inc.1.000000 of the Sy51.1350 Group, Yen 0.008718 theJapan biggest bank, climbed 3.50.4458 percent UK Pound 1.352300 69.1499 to P139.70, while sister firm SM Prime Hong Kong Dollar 0.128309 6.5611 Holdings Inc. rose 3.1 percent to P36.20.

Switzerland Franc 1.085305 55.4971 The rest ofDollar Asian0.788271 equities 40.3082 built on Canada a rally acrossDollar world0.741510 markets WednesSingapore 37.9171

PSE INDEX CLOSING

Australia

Dollar

0.712600

36.4388

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652801

135.6510

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266553

13.6302

Brunei

Dollar

0.738771

37.7771

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000070

0.0036

Thailand

Baht

0.030130

1.5407

UAE

Dirham

0.272287

13.9234

Euro

Euro

1.127300

57.6445

Korea

Won

0.000832

0.0425

China

Yuan

0.157011

8.0288

India

Rupee

0.013383

0.6843

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.239006

12.2216

New Zealand

Dollar

0.663800

33.9434

Taiwan

Dollar

0.035991

1.8404

day as investors become less worried about the Federal Reserve’s plans to tighten monetary policy, while more strong corporate results lifted optimism about the outlook.

And while there remains a lot of volatility and uncertainty on trading floors owing to geopolitical tensions and the Omicron spread, analysts remain upbeat for the year.

With much of the region still closed for the Lunar New Year break, business was again thin, though the markets that were open enjoyed strong buying interest following an upbeat performance in Europe and New York.

Tokyo, Sydney, Wellington and Jakarta were all up more than one percent, while Mumbai and Bangkok also chalked up advances.

After a torrid January, world markets have enjoyed a strong rally over the past three days with commentators saying the selling may have gone too far and traders were buying bargains.

The positive mood has been helped by positive economic readings and com-

ments from Fed officials indicating that the bank should be considered in their tightening cycle, with recent suggestions for a 50 basis point hike in March seen as too hard, too early.

Markets strategist Louis Navellier said the remarks revived the belief that the Fed was still prepared to step in to support markets if they suffered too much.

Still, the idea of five or six increases before 2023 has been aired on several occasions as policymakers battle to rein in four-decade-high inflation.

Observers remain upbeat.

“Fed tightening is still the path forward,” Dennis DeBusschere, of 22V Research, said. “But a short-term rebound in equities will continue—led by growth and cyclicals—as investors focus on a narrative of ‘peak tightening’ ahead of what is likely to be a weak payroll report.”

Carley Garner, founder of DeCarley Trading, told Bloomberg Television that while “stocks probably have a little further to move on the downside before they find a bottom,” she thought 2022 would still end on a healthy note for investors. AFP

Source: BSP

DUBAI EXPO. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez (left) greets UAE’s Minister of Tolerance Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak ahead of the raising of the Spanish flag during Spain’s National Day at Expo 2020 Dubai on February 2, 2022 in Dubai. AFP

WTO chief set to launch internal shake-up to revitalize organization GENEVA, Switzerland—The World Trade Organization was to launch an internal shake-up on Tuesday in a bid to inject some life into an institution where progress has all but ground to a halt.

Almost a year since taking charge at the WTO, director-general Ngozi OkonjoIweala was set to announce to its headquarters a plan to restructure the secretariat, which has hardly changed since the global trade body was created in 1995.

The Nigerian former finance and foreign minister—the WTO’s first woman and first African leader—wants to revitalize the organization, which is struggling to conclude trade deals and facing several towering challenges.

“Like all of her predecessors as directorgeneral, Dr Ngozi took office promising to update the secretariat’s structure and operations,” a WTO official told AFP, adding that the global trading environment was now drastically different from the mid-1990s.

“She is moving ahead with that promise she made to members.”

Part of Tuesday’s meeting “was about briefing colleagues about what is happening with this process, and plans for the next few months”, the official said.

B3

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2022 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

The WTO headquarters, a classicalstyle 1920s building next to Lake Geneva, counts 625 staff—mainly economists, lawyers and other international trade policy specialists.

As decisions in the WTO are taken in consensus by its 164 members, the secretariat’s main tasks are to provide advice, technical help to developing countries, and legal assistance in the dispute resolution process.

After taking office in March 2021, Okonjo-Iweala commissioned management consultants McKinsey to perform an external audit on how the secretariat works, and provide guidance on the changes needed.

It meanwhile remains unclear what specific observations and recommendations were made in the report, which has not been published or even provided to member states.

According to the Swiss newspaper Le Temps, the restructuring moves so far have not gone down well.

“Already, three heads of division have resigned and three others have announced their early retirement,” the daily said, citing difficult working conditions, conflicts and a lack of consultation by the hierarchy. AFP

India’s Tata Motors books another loss MUMBAI, India—India’s Tata Motors, the owners of the Jaguar and Land Rover brands, reported a fourth consecutive quarterly loss Monday, weighed down by higher commodity prices and the global chip shortage.

Microchips are a key component in car manufacturing but automakers around the world have been hamstrung by limited supplies due to semiconductor production cuts during the pandemic.

The Mumbai-headquartered firm reported a net loss of 15.2 billion rupees ($203 million) in the three months to December 31, it said in a statement, compared to a net profit of 29.1 billion rupees a year earlier.

“The auto industry continued to witness rising demand in most segments even as the supply of semiconductors remained restricted resulting in adverse impact on production,” Tata Motors’ executive director Girish Wagh said in a statement.

“The semiconductor supply situation is improving gradually whilst inflation worries persist,” the company added.

Operational revenue slipped 4.5 percent to 722.3 billion ($9.7 billion) from a year earlier.

Retail sales for Tata Motors’ British subsidiary, Britain’s biggest carmaker Jaguar Land Rover, were “significantly constrained by chip shortages and low inventories” and fell 37.6 percent year-on-year.

But the company’s India business saw revenue rise by 43.3 percent on the corresponding period, with sales up across all vehicle segments.

Its electric-vehicle arm reported a new quarterly sales high of 5,592 cars.

Shares in Tata Motors closed 4.04 percent higher at the end of Monday’s trade in Mumbai ahead of the earnings announcement. AFP

OPEC+ eyes slight output boost as oil prices surge LONDON, United Kingdom—The 23 members of the OPEC+ oil cartel, who meet on Wednesday, are expected to stick to their guns and increase output modestly as the price of crude surges.

As in January, analysts expect the taps to be opened slightly, to the tune of an additional 400,000 barrels per day, Tamas Varga, an analyst at PVM Energy, told AFP. Representatives of the 13 members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), and their 10 allies through the OPEC+ agreement, will first meet at ministerial level before a broader video conference scheduled for 1300 GMT. The cartel’s prudent approach dates back to the spring of 2021 as demand recovered from drastic cuts in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since then, OPEC+ has not deviated from its line despite calls in the autumn from the White House to further boost supplies to tamp down prices.

Current prices of around $90 do not seem likely to change their position.

Since the last meeting of the organization, the price of a barrel of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) has risen by more than 14 percent and Brent by more than 11 percent, with both crude references hitting highs in January not seen for more than seven years.

Victoria Scholar, an expert at Interactive Investor, said she expected “further gains,” a product of solid demand and OPEC+’s “drip-feed production increases.”

The market has been further boosted by soaring geopolitical tensions plaguing stalwarts of oil production—Russia, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The United Arab Emirates on Monday intercepted another ballistic missile launched by Yemen’s Huthi rebels, the latest attack on the Gulf country, which is part of a Saudi-led military coalition.

In Europe, tensions between Moscow and Western allies are at their highest point since the Cold War after Russia massed troops on its border with Ukraine.

“Ukraine-Russia (tensions) can only keep pushing it up as long as the situation keeps getting worse,” said Neil Wilson of Markets.com. AFP

Denmark unmasks to ‘live normally’ with Omicron

By Camille Bas-Wohlert COPENHAGEN, Denmark—Denmark waved goodbye to facemasks and health passes Tuesday as it became the first European Union country to lift all of its domestic COVID curbs despite record numbers of cases of the milder Omicron variant.

Only a few restrictions remain in place at the country’s borders, for unvaccinated travelers arriving from non-Schengen countries.

After a first attempt at lifting restrictions between September and November, the Scandinavian country once again ditched its COVID checks and limited opening hours for bars and restaurants.

“For me, the best part is that we don’t need to wear masks anymore,” Natalia Chechetkina, a receptionist in Copenhagen, told AFP. “At least now we have a choice—if we want to protect ourselves or we want to feel free.”

Marie Touflet, a 23-year-old French student in the capital, said it was “pretty strange to take the metro without a mask, compared to France.”

“It’s really nice to be able to see people’s faces and it feels like we’re living normally again,” she said.

The easing comes as Denmark registers around 40,000-50,000 new COVID cases a day, or almost one percent of the country’s 5.8 million inhabitants.

Health officials believe those figures will soon start going down.

“There are strong indications that the infection has peaked in the areas where it has been most pronounced,” Tyra Krause of Denmark’s public health and research institution SSI told news agency Ritzau.

“So it’s super good timing for the restrictions to be eased.”

Shift of responsibility More than 60 percent of Danes have received a third dose of a COVID-19 vaccine—one month ahead of health authorities’ schedule—compared to an EU average of just under 45 percent.

Including those who have recently had COVID, health authorities estimate that 80 percent of the population is protected against severe forms of the disease.

“With Omicron not being a severe disease for the vaccinated, we believe it is reasonable to lift restrictions,” epidemiologist Lone Simonsen of the University of Roskilde told AFP. Two years after the start of the pandemic, the Danish strategy enjoys broad

support at home.

In a poll published Monday by daily Politiken, 64 percent of Danes surveyed said they had faith in the government’s COVID policy, while the lifting of restrictions also has widespread support in parliament.

Going forward, Danes are being urged to exercise personal responsibility.

“Without a COVID pass there will be a shift of responsibility,” Simonsen said.

Danes have increasingly used home tests to detect infection, but these are now being phased out and instead, anyone with symptoms is advised to stay home.

The Danish Health Authority currently “recommends” those who test positive to isolate for four days, while contact cases no longer need to quarantine.

Facemasks and the COVID pass are also recommended for hospital visits.

Denmark lifted restrictions as the World Health Organization chief Tuesday warned it was too early for countries to either declare victory over COVID-19 or give up attempts to halt transmission.

‘Bit of an experiment’ One of the rare critics in Denmark was the country’s Gout Association.

“We think it’s important to continue using masks as long as the infection is spreading widely,” association director Mette Bryde Lind told Ritzau.

Eskild Petersen, an infectious disease specialist, said the Danish strategy was

“a bit of an experiment.”

“I would have liked for us to wait 1014 days after changing quarantine rules before abandoning masks and opening up nightlife” again, he told public television broadcaster TV2.

The government said it does not expect to have to revert to new closures but has remained cautious.

“We can’t provide any guarantees when it comes to biology,” Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said last week, announcing the country’s return “to life as we knew it before corona.”

This is the second time Denmark has tried to return to a pre-pandemic lifestyle.

On September 10, the country lifted all its restrictions before reintroducing some in November.

Museums, cinemas and theater and concert venues then closed over Christmas and the New Year.

According to the World Health Organization, 73 percent of the European population has contracted COVID-19 at least once since January 2020.

Faced with a lower level of hospitalizations than in previous waves, several European countries have announced a reduction of their restrictions, despite record or very high cases.

“Populations in most countries have reached high levels of immunity, from vaccines or natural illness,” Simonsen said.

“This is how it ends.” AFP

Customers are pictured at the fish market in Torvehallerne in Copenhagen on February 1, 2022, as Denmark becomes the first EU country to lift coronavirus restrictions despite record case numbers, citing its high vaccination rates and the lesser severity of Omicron variant. AFP

2

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% % % %

NGE

9% 4% % % %

% % % % %

PHP) 0 5

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5 8

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

B4

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2022

PSE INDEX CLOSING Wednesday, February 2, 2022 97.34 PTS. 7,458.99

TOTAL VOLUME TOTAL TRADES TOTAL VALUE (IN PHP)

1,525,787,296 100,066 7,841,382,548.89

ADVANCES

123

DECLINES

81

UNCHANGED

47

F oreign e xchange r ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

51.1350

Japan

Yen

0.008718

0.4458

UK

Pound

1.352300

69.1499

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.128309

6.5611

Switzerland

Franc

1.085305

55.4971

Canada

Dollar

0.788271

40.3082

Singapore

Dollar

0.741510

37.9171

Australia

Dollar

0.712600

36.4388

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652801

135.6510

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266553

13.6302

Brunei

Dollar

0.738771

37.7771

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000070

0.0036

Thailand

Baht

0.030130

1.5407

UAE

Dirham

0.272287

13.9234

Euro

Euro

1.127300

57.6445

Korea

Won

0.000832

0.0425

China

Yuan

0.157011

8.0288

India

Rupee

0.013383

0.6843

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.239006

12.2216

New Zealand

Dollar

0.663800

33.9434

Taiwan

Dollar

0.035991

1.8404 Source: BSP

AC Energy forms joint venture with Thailand company AC Energy Corp. said Wednesday it is taking a 49-percent interest in a joint venture with Thai company Super Energy Corporation Public Co. Ltd. for $165 million that will allow it to further expand its renewable energy footprint in Southeast Asia.

ACEN and SUPER said their respective subsidiaries have signed an agreement to form a strategic partnership to develop, own and operate RE projects across ASEAN. ACEN’s wholly-owned subsidiary AC Energy Vietnam Investments Pte. Ltd. signed the share purchase agreement to acquire a 49-percent interest in Solar NT, owned by SUPER subsidiary Super Energy Group (Hong Kong) Co. Ltd. SUPER is a premier Thai renewable energy developer and investor.

The transaction will be done through the sale of secondary shares for $165 million.

Post-restructuring, Solar NT will own and operate nine solar power plants across Vietnam with total capacity of 837 megawatts.

The transaction is the beginning of a strategic partnership between ACEN and SUPER, which plan to expand their renewable footprints in Vietnam while exploring other Southeast Asian markets.

“SUPER has accomplished a lot in Vietnam, and we wish to support its solar expansion in Vietnam and beyond through our partnership. This will help accelerate ACEN’s aggressive renewables expansion across the region,” ACEN president and chief executive Eric Francia said.

The transaction also reflects ACEN’s commitment to supporting the energy transition in the region.

“This helps create more sustainable jobs as we expand our operational portfolio which brings us closer to achieving our goal to become the largest listed renewables platform in Southeast Asia,” said Patrice Clausse, chief operating officer of AC Energy International and director of ACEV. Jormsup Lochaya, chairman and chief executive of SUPER, said the company’s objective is to form a strategic partnership to join forces in joint investment and solar energy power plant business development in ASEAN. Alena Mae S. Flores

DIGITAL COLLEGE.

Mapua University president and chief executive Dr. Reynaldo Vea (top, left), other Mapua University and Malayan Colleges of Laguna executives and digital learning leaders lead the launching of the Mapua Malayan Digital College—a new college focused on technology and business. MMDC is an affordable digital-first offering that delivers cutting-edge online curriculum and offline experiences designed for the modern Filipino students. It harnesses the academic excellence and heritage of Mapúa University and subsidiary of Malayan Colleges Laguna.

Business

SMC unit offers lowest price to supply Meralco

By Alena Mae S. Flores

S

outh Premiere Power Corp., a company controlled by San Miguel Corp., offered the lowest bid to supply 170 megawatts of peaking power to Manila Electric Co. on Wednesday.

The third-party bids and awards committee overseeing Meralco’s competitive selection process declared SPPC’s offer of P6.8198 per kilowatt-hour as the best bid. It was also below the P7.2989-per-kWh total delivered headline reserve price.

The total delivered headline rate includes value-added tax and other charges.

SMC president Ramon Ang said the South Premiere was “lucky” when asked for comment on SPPC’s offer that

was ranked as the lowest bid.

SPPC offered the 1,200-MW Ilijan natural gas combined cycle power plant in Batangas province to supply Meralco’s peaking power needs. The power supply agreement will be financial in nature, which means the supplier has the flexibility of securing supply from other power plants.

The CSP round involves a contract from Feb. 26, 2022 to July 25, 2022 and is part of Meralco’s preparations to ensure there will be sufficient, reliable and costcompetitive supply for the dry months when demand is historically high.

“Upon the issuance of a notice of award, Meralco will enter into a PSA with SPPC, which will then be submitted for approval by the Energy Regulatory Commission. This PSA will help ensure availability of supply, which is especially critical in the upcoming dry months and the national and local elections,” said Meralco head of regulatory management office Jose Ronald Valles.

Global Business Power Corp.,

through subsidiaries Panay Energy Development Corp., Toledo Power Co. and Panay Power Co., submitted a P9.7777per-kWh offer, exceeding the reserve price set for the bidding.

Therma Luzon Inc., owned by the Aboitiz Group, initially expressed interest in the bidding, but later withdrew its participation.

The TPBAC said the committee’s findings were based on a pass/fail assessment of the qualification documents for completeness. It will conduct a postqualification evaluation prior to the issuance of the notice of award.

“The TPBAC complied with its mandate to conduct the bid in an open and transparent manner to achieve the least cost of electricity, in accordance with the Department of Energy’s Department Circular No. 2018-02-0003 on CSP, as amended by Department Circular No. 2021-09-0030,” said TPBAC chairman Ferdinand Domingo.

The DOE witnessed the conduct of the CSP.

Managing risks key to boosting local economy this year—DOF

By Julito G. Rada MANAGING risks from the pandemic is the key to sustaining the economic growth this year, following the strong expansion in the second half of 2022, the Department of Finance said Wednesday.

“The robust growth figures in the final two quarters of 2021 point towards continued economic recovery.

This momentum needs to be sustained even in the face of the continued threat from the virus and its variants. The country needs to continue managing the risks, either through pharmaceutical or non-pharmaceutical means,” the agency said in a statement.

Data showed that the gross domestic product grew by 7.7 percent in the fourth quarter of 2021, bringing the full-year growth to 5.6 percent, beating private sector expectations and exceeding the government’s target of 5 percent to 5.5 percent.

The DOF said more economic reforms would also support the growth momentum such as the recent approval of the amendments to the Retail Trade Liberalization Act. “We continue working with Congress to amend Public Service Act and Foreign Investments Act. These gamechanging economic reforms, together with the ongoing infrastructure program and CREATE, will have formed an economic recovery cocktail that can deliver a big shot in the arm of the Philippine economy. This will continue the investment-led growth, generate more employment, and, possibly, increase real wages,” it said.

IN BRIEF 8990 Holdings eyes P23-b sales this year

YEAR OF PROSPERITY. The Philippine Stock Exchange holds a bell ringing ceremony to welcome the Year of the Water Tiger on Feb. 2. PSE president and chief executive Ramon Monzon says the Year of the Tiger is supposed to be a year of possibilities and prosperity. Attending the ceremony are (from left, by row) PSE treasurer Omelita Tiangco, Securities Clearing Corporation of the Philippines chief operating officer Renee Rubio, PSE general counsel Veronica Del Rosario, chief operating officer Roel Refran, Monzon, issuer regulation division head Marigel Garcia, market operations division head Roel Villanueva, finance division head Roberto Jose Jimenez and capital markets development division head Mark Frederick Visda.

AC Motors reported DPWH completes 772 roads, other infra projects in Northern Mindanao 39% growth in sales

By Darwin G. Amojelar The Department of Public Works and Highways said Wednesday it completed 772 infrastructure projects last year that are now helping the people of Northern Mindanao cope with the COVID-19 pandemic.

It said it finished the construction, maintenance, improvement and widening of 255.6 kilometers of national roads worth P8.93 billion, 16.79 kilometers of national bridges costing P1.91 billion and construction of 18 flood control projects amounting to P712.33 million.

Also completed were 607 local projects costing P2.81 billion, including 85 local road projects, 49 water supply systems, six Philippine National Police buildings, 435 multi-purpose buildings, 14 tourism road projects and nine roads to trade, industry and economic sones.

“We laud the accomplished projects delivered by DPWH Regional Office 10 amid the pandemic. These infrastructure projects allow Northern Mindanao to

recover from the economic impacts of the pandemic,” DPWH Secretary Roger Mercado said.

The agency said among the projects competed are the Cagayan de Oro Civic Convention Center that is designed to hold various events and will generate jobs for the locals; the Puntian-Arakan Bypass Road that will link Regions 10, 11 and 12; and the Layawan Flood Control Structure that protects communities from the hazards of floods.

“For the remaining months under President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s administration, we aim to accomplish more high-impact projects to focus on more inclusive economic growth,” the department said.

Mercado said the construction of Panguil Bay Bridge connecting Tubod, Lanao del Norte and Tangub City, Misamis Occidental is ongoing at full steam.

He said the design and build for the 3.169-kilometer bridge was progressing at a brisk pace, having attained a weighted average of 41.83 percent to date.

of 5 vehicle brands

By Othel V. Campos AC Motors of the Ayala Group on Wednesday reported a 30-percent growth across its five automobile brands last year, outpacing the industry expansion of 18 percent.

AC Motors president for automobile group Antonio Zara III said the company will continue its strategy as it welcomes 2022.

“We are looking at strengthening our presence in the truck market which is recovering faster from the pandemic.

Further expansion of our network and digitization will likewise continue.

Together with a partner, we are about to launch an innovative solution for used car trade-ins,” Zara said during a thanksgiving event Monday.

He said the company would pursue projects in the pipeline that would continue to redefine how things are and will be in 2022 including studies on electric vehicles.

Zara said that in 2022, AC Motors planned to steadily grow its sales volume, starting with the launch of the all-new Kia Carnival.

He said AC Motors was also exploring opportunities to become a key player in sustainable mobility in line with Ayala Group’s commitment to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Ayala is the only Philippine conglomerate to commit to, and support, an ambitious environmental goal.

“As our contribution to this strategic goal, we at AC Motors will actively explore bringing electric vehicles to the domestic market. We need to make EV ownership more accessible.

We will, however, need support from the government,” Zara said.

MASS housing developer 8990 Holdings Inc. on Wednesday disclosed its goal to register P23 billion in revenues this year, up 15 percent from P20 billion in unaudited sales booked in 2021.

8990 Holdings said in a disclosure to the stock exchange its land bank of 729.05 hectares in strategic areas nationwide would deliver the projected revenue growth for the year.

The company reported a 41-percent hike in sales in 2020 to P20 billion from P14.2 billion in 2019, on continued strong demand for affordable houses. The 2021 revenues represented a 30-percent rise from the pre-pandemic 2019 revenues of P15.4 billion.

“These results reflect the strong demand for affordable housing, the optimism of our buyers in the economy and their confidence in the stability of their future revenue streams,” 8990 president and chief executive Anthony Vincent Sotto said.

The company delivered 11,564 more homes to Filipino buyers in 2021.

Jenniffer B. Austria

RCBC launches peso green time deposit RIZAL Commercial Banking Corp., one of the largest universal banks in the country, launched on Wednesday the first environment-related time deposit in the Philippines.

The bank said in a statement the Peso Green Time Deposit is an investment opportunity for clients who are also committed to promoting environmental awareness and protection. It is among the bank’s products that aim to promote sustainability in banking.

RCBC retail banking group head Richard Lim noted the growing awareness about sustainability among the younger segment.

“Through this product, individual investors or even private corporations have a more accessible vehicle to participate and contribute to a sustainable future,” Lim said.

The funds under the Green Time Deposits will be used exclusively to support RCBC’s green asset portfolio which includes funding support for green projects such as renewable energy, pollution prevention and control, energy efficiency, sustainable water management and clean transportation. Julito G. Rada

P3.7-b road connecting New Clark City finished THE P3.7-billion first phase of the 19.83-kilometer, six-lane road connecting New Clark City and Clark International Airport was completed, state-run Bases Conversion Development Authority said Wednesday.

The 5.33-kilometer segment of the Clark International Airport to NCC Access Road project will provide faster and easier access to the gateway’s new passenger terminal—a cornerstone of the administration’s “Build, Build, Build” program.

A part of the project’s first phase is the iconic 900-meter bridge crossing the Sacobia River in Bamban, Tarlac. The entire access road project will reduce travel time from New Clark City to other districts of Clark from 45 minutes to about 15 minutes.

“The pandemic should be fought across all fronts. Advancing infrastructure projects is one way to bounce back. We are fulfilling our commitment to deliver key infrastructure projects as these will help the Philippine economy get back on its feet and propel growth,” said BCDA officer-in-charge president and chief executive Aristotle Batuhan. Othel V. Campos

Sports

Controversies abound as Beijing ‘22 games begin BEIJING—The sporting action gets under way at the Beijing Winter Olympics on Wednesday, two days before the opening ceremony of a Games overshadowed by diplomatic boycotts and concerns about human rights and Covid.

Added to the controversy are fears for the safety of Peng Shuai, warnings about snooping by the Chinese government and the environmental impact of an Olympics which will rely almost entirely on man-made snow.

Adopting the catchphrase “Together for a shared future”, China, its ruling Communist Party and the International Olympic Committee hope all the rancour will be forgotten once the Games get into full swing.

China has been keen to stress that its capital will make Olympic history, becoming the first city to host both a Summer and Winter Games, and saying the Games will be “safe and splendid”.

The Olympics officially launch on Friday but the sports start later Wednesday with mixed-doubles curling.

Beginning its journey to the “Bird’s Nest” stadium for the opening ceremony, a low-key torch relay got going under blue skies despite earlier warnings about pollution.

If the 2008 Summer Games were the country’s coming-out party, these Olympics will take place in a China under President Xi Jinping which is increasingly belligerent on the global stage and boasting the world’s secondlargest economy.

When Washington said it would stage a diplomatic boycott because of rights concerns—with Australia, Britain and Canada among those following suit— China warned the United States would “pay the price”.

The Biden administration will not send diplomatic or official representation over what it called China’s “ongoing genocide and crimes against humanity” against Muslim Uyghurs in the region of Xinjiang.

Athletes of the boycotting countries will compete at the Games, which run until February 20, but a US rights monitor sounded the alarm this week over athletes’ safety after the hosts threatened “punishment” for anti-Beijing comments.

The Congressional-Executive Commission on China—a group of Washington lawmakers and White House officials—asked US Olympics authorities for an “urgent effort” to protect their stars if they speak out.

Surveillance There are other controversies. IOC president Thomas Bach says that while in Beijing he will meet Peng, a Grand Slam-winning tennis player who alleged in November that she had been sexually assaulted by a former vice-premier.

Peng was not heard from for nearly three weeks, only to reappear, but there are concerns about how free she really is.

Fearing surveillance, some Western nations have told their athletes to leave their personal devices at home and use temporary burner phones.

There are signs that China is tightening the noose on anyone daring to spoil the party, with human rights activists and some academics having their WeChat messaging app accounts restricted in recent weeks. AFP

Lady booters sticking to Malditas’ moniker THE Philippine women’s national football team is keeping its nickname ‘Malditas’.

This is after some fans pointed out the negative meaning of the name -bitchy, snobby, sharp-tongued, rude, mean and usually refers to a woman.

Philippine Football Federation president Mariano “Nonong” Araneta said they tried to give the squad another name, but the fans have started to love the team for its name.

“Kahit sa FIFA, ang tawag na sa kanila ay Malditas. Gusto rin ng fans.

Kaya kung ano ang gusto ng fans, we will abide by this,” said Araneta.

“Malditas,” which also means feisty ladies, was the adopted nickname by the national team during the 2005 Southeast Asian Games.

Former head coach Ernest Nierras gave them the name when he was still forming the squad and it stuck ever since.

The nickname is said to reflect the players’ gutsy nature. It was supposed to be changed after former national coach Marlon Maro gave way to new mentor Alen Stajcic last November, but fans have already grown to love the name. Peter Atencio

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Randy M. Caluag, Assistant Editor THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2022

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The Olympic Tower adorned with the Olympic Rings is seen near the Main Media Centre ahead of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics in the Chinese capital. AFP

‘Nothing-to-lose’ attitude PH’s weapon vs Koreans

By Peter Atencio

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“That’s truly, at this level, an amazing level of performance with the consistency that they (Malditas) showed. It shows that we can be a really difficult team to beat,” said Stajcic. “I think the next level of improvement and involvement for this group will be what we can do with the ball.”

The Koreans, who are coached by Colin Bell, also seek to go beyond the semis as well for the first time. This is, however, their fifth attempt to shoot for the finals.

Ji So-yun is the teamost prolific scorer that the Malditas have to watch out for, having scored four goals in the meet.

On the other hand, Malditas’ bet Tahnai Annus has the most goals for the team with two.

But goals could also come from other players, such as Chandler McDaniel, Katrina Guilliou, Jessica Miclat, Malea Cesar, Quinley Quezada or Sarina Bolden.

HE Malditas will try to go where no other Philippine national women’s football team has gone before.

They will play a semifinal match with South Korea at 4 p.m. Thursday, with the Philippines hoping to extend its amazing run in the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup at the Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune, India after already earning one of five available slots to the 2023 FIFA World Cup. The winner of the contest battles the victor of the other semifinal clash featuring China and Japan at 10 p.m.

Coach Alen Stajcic said the Malditas have already proven themselves in the tournament and shown an amazing level of performance as they now go into unfamiliar territory -- a slot in the finals.

“We have a lot of belief in the team,

and a nothing-to-lose attitude. We’ll give it everything we got and make it hard for them,” said Stajcic, who added that the Koreans are now showing their potential after they eased out Australia in the quarterfinals, 1-0.

So far, the Koreans have won their last two games against the Philippines with a combined score of 9-0.

This includes a 5-0 triumph in their last meeting, which was a fifth-place playoff at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Jordan back in 2018.

With the Malditas showing a much better form this time, Stajcic said the team is expected to flaunt something much different than how they were in previous showdowns with the Koreans.

Alen Stajcic

Sangiao, Eustaquio form ‘Apprentice Dream Team’ THE world can finally watch “The Apprentice: ONE Championship Edition” after the unique take on the reality television show became available on Netflix starting on February 1.

It is undoubtedly an interesting format because the 16 candidates will also undergo physical challenges aside from the typical business-centric tasks.

The aspirants will be divided into two teams, and several ONE athletes will grace the show to either facilitate the physical tasks or join in the competition themselves.

While the show pits every man or woman for themselves, it’s still critical to work well with the group to ace the challenges.

That said, it’s interesting to pick the minds of some Philippine mixed martial arts personalities about

forming their Apprentice Dream Team should they appear in the award-winning program.

“Demetrious Johnson, Rodtang, and GSP,” former ONE Flyweight World Champion Geje “Gravity” Eustaquio said. “It’s because their work ethic is insane, and they can complete the puzzle.”

Both Johnson and Georges St. Pierre bolstered the show’s star power by guesting in different episodes.

Having them on the team is a no-brainer because they’re two of the most intelligent fighters in MMA history.

The same can be said about Rodtang, whose toughness and in-ring IQ helped him go through the ranks before becoming the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion.

On the other hand, Team Lakay coach Mark San-

giao isn’t looking elsewhere in creating his dream team.

The soft-spoken mentor will stick with his wards because familiarity is crucial in shows like this.

“Personally, I’d go for Joshua Pacio, Geje Eustaquio, and Lito Adiwang - of course all Team Lakay,” Sangiao said.

“These athletes have something in them that they can offer to the table, complementing each other, making us a perfect package.”

Catch all 13 episodes of “The Apprentice: ONE Championship Edition” on-demand on Netflix.

ONE Champion also returns to martial arts action with ONE: BAD BLOOD on February 11. Watch the event live by downloading the ONE Super App or by visiting their official YouTube channel.

PSA to honor PH’s 2021 sporting heroes THE most memorable period in Philippine sports history will be relived and honored next month when the Philippine Sportswriters Association and San Miguel Corporation team up anew to hold its traditional Annual Awards Night.

The festivity is booked at the ballroom

Hidilyn Diaz

of the Diamond Hotel Manila and could either be held face-to-face or virtual similar to last year depending on the health situation days leading up to the March 14 special event.

What is certain though, is the grand celebration set to take place on this special night when the sportswriting community

pays tribute to the men and women, who made 2021 truly a wonderful year for local sports notwithstanding the global health pandemic.

Highlight of the event with the Philippine Sports Commission and Philippine Olympic Committee as major backers, is the bestowing of the prestigious Athlete of the Year award solely given by the oldest media organization in the country composed of editors and writers of leading dailies and sports websites in the country.

Weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz leads several nominees for the coveted award after giving this country of 110 million people its breakthrough Olympic gold medal in the Tokyo Games.

Also in the list is US Women’s Open champion Yuka Saso, world gymnastics champion Carlos Yulo, Tokyo Olympic silver medal winners Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam, as well as bronze medalist Eumir Marcial, US

Open champion Carlos Biado, tennis grand slam winner Alex Eala, and four-weight boxing champion Nonito Donaire Jr. Other awards to be given out during the affair also supported by MILO, 1Pacman, Philippine Basketball Association, Rain or Shine, ICTSI, Philracom, Chooks To Go, Smart, and the MVPSF, are the President’s Award, Executive of the Year, National Sports Association of the Year, and the Lifetime Achievement Award.

At the same time, an Excellence in Leadership award will be handed out during the gala night, according to PSA president Rey C. Lachica, sports editor of Tempo.

Major Awards, the ‘Manok Ng Bayan Award,’ and special citations complete the compact list of honorees.

Last year, the PSA held its Awards Night virtually for the first time in its history, with Saso emerging as the 2020 Athlete of the Year winner.

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Sports

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2022

New Asian series offers powerful force in world golf

Giannis’ triple double helps topple Wizards; T’Wolves win

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia—A Saudi Arabia-backed group headlined by Australian great Greg Norman on Tuesday unveiled a new 10-event series aimed at “setting the Asian Tour up as a powerful new force on the world golf stage” in the latest twist in the balance of power at the top of the game.

With a first ever Asian Tour stopover in England, former world number one Norman said the International Series was “not going to be geofenced”.

“Just because the International Series is associated with the Asian Tour, we want to get the message out there that it’s just not specifically for the Asian region, and that’s critically important for everybody to understand. Healthy and respectful competition should be spread globally,” he explained.

“That’s why it’s so encouraging that we can go to London. It will be so encouraging when we go to the United States. This is just the beginning.”

Norman said he was surprised at the vehemence the U.S. PGA Tour and the European DP World Tour had shown to the Asian Tour and its partner, Norman’s LIV Golf Investment.

“We’re not in this for a fight. We’re in this for the good of the game,” said the Australian.

“It’s disappointing, personally, to see some of the attacks that have been taking place unwarrantedly. Any time you pre-judge anybody without knowing the facts, then shame on you, to be honest,” said Norman, whose proposed a world tour in mid-1990s was shot down by the established tours.

“I would encourage them to sit back and say, maybe it’s a good time to sit down and understand if we can work side by side.”

“In my 40 years as a professional golfer, I’ve seen many parts of the world that have benefitted tremendously from golf and its growth and development,” continued Norman, 66, who was the world’s top-ranked player for more than five years.

“We now have the opportunity to do that in the Asia Pacific region and the Middle East with this incredible investment platform. Everyone benefits and I’ve never been so optimistic about the future of the sport.”

On the eve of the $5 million Saudi International, which used to be part of the European Tour but is now co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour, Norman announced that his LIV organisation will increase its financial commitment to $300 million over the next 10 years. AFP

another, just like I said last week,” he had said.

But those remarks turned out be just one final piece of misdirection from the veteran signal-caller, a five-time Super Bowl Most Valuable Player and threetime NFL season MVP a record tally of 243 regular-season victories.

Brady set NFL career passing records with 7,263 completions on 11,317 attempts for 84,520 yards and 624 touchdowns.

The bulk of his career was spent with the New England Patriots, where he won six Super Bowls in tandem with head coach Bill Belichick.

Brady did not mention the Patriots or Belichick in his initial farewell message on Tuesday, but later thanked the team in a message on Twitter.

Brady’s career was studded with milestones and records that may never be beaten. He is the oldest player to play in and win a Super Bowl, a stage he graced on no fewer than 10 occasions. AFP

LOS ANGELES—Giannis Antetokounmpo posted his fourth triple double of the season as the Milwaukee Bucks handed the Washington Wizards their sixth straight loss with a 112-98 victory on Tuesday.

Washington erased a 17-point third-quarter deficit and even took an 86-83 lead on Rui Hachimura’s three-pointer with 8:28 to play, but the Bucks outscored Washington 2912 down the stretch.

Antetokounmpo finished with 33 points, 15 rebounds and 11 assists, the third straight time he has scored at least 30 points when making a triple double.

Jrue Holiday scored 22 points, Bobby Portis 17, Khris Middleton 13 and Grayson Allen 10 for the Bucks.

Kyle Kuzma had 25 points and 11 rebounds for the Wizards, who were missing all-star guard Bradley Beal, out with a left wrist sprain.

Montrezl Harrell came off the bench to score 20 points, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope added 12 in the loss. Spencer Dinwiddie finished with seven poiants, seven rebounds and nine assists.

Elsewhere, Karl-Anthony Towns scored 24 points, grabbed 10 rebounds and dished seven assists and the Minnesota Timberwolves cruised to a 130-115 win over the Denver Nuggets.

Taurean Prince added 23 points for the Timberwolves, who have won two games in a row and 10 of their past 15. Jarred Vanderbilt finished with 18 points and nine rebounds, while Malik Beasley and Naz Reid each finished with 12.

Nikola Jokic had 21 points, 16 rebounds and eight assists to lead the Nuggets, who had their five-game win streak halted. Will Barton and Monte Morris had 13 points apiece for Denver.

In Toronto, Gary Trent delivered his fifth straight game of at least 30 points, finishing with 33 as the Toronto Raptors eased past the Miami Heat 110-106. AFP

“When I think about Tom Brady, he’s a true winner who handled himself with class throughout his entire career.

“Even with those seven Super Bowl rings, he never lost that competitive fire to be the best.”

Another quarterback legend and rival, former Green Bay Packers signalcaller Brett Favre, described Brady as the “greatest ever to play and you did it with class and humility.”

“Man, @TomBrady, what a run!” Favre wrote. “God bless you and your family as you begin a new chapter in your life.”

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan —who finished on the losing side when Brady led the New England Patriots to the greatest comeback in Super Bowl history in 2017—saluted an “amazing” career.

“Seven Super Bowls (wish it was 6) and countless other records will be hard for anyone to pass,” Ryan said.

NBA icon Magic Johnson said Brady would be remembered as the “G.O.A.T” (Greatest of All Time).

“Thank you @TomBrady for 22 years that gave us 7 Super Bowls, several broken records, and making every teammate

you played with better,” Johnson said.

“That’s why you are the GOAT.” Los Angeles Lakers legend Shaquille O’Neal meanwhile took issue with Brady’s decision to retire.

“No man, get your butt up and do one more year,” O’Neal quipped, before adding: “Love u bro absolute joy to watch.”

Lakers star LeBron James added: “Hell of a ride my friend! Thanks for the memories & inspiration.”

The Golden State Warriors’ star Stephen Curry said simply: “Nobody better! Congrats.”

England soccer captain Harry Kane added: “Congratulations on an incredible career @TomBrady. Your drive, passion and commitment is inspiring.

“You’re the main reason I started following the sport and love the @NFL .

Thank you!”

Olympic swimming legend Michael Phelps said simply: “Congrats bro! Enjoy the next chapter.”

Golfer Justin Thomas said Brady had been an “inspiration to so many.”

“You’re the best TB. Nobody better in so many facets of life!,” Thomas said. AFP

Tom Brady though the years

Brady ends NFL ‘thrilling ride’, confirms retirement

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OS ANGELES—NFL icon Tom Brady confirmed his retirement from the sport on Tuesday, officially bringing the curtain down on a glittering 22-season career.

The 44-year-old Tampa Bay Buccaneers superstar, widely regarded as the greatest quarterback in history, made the announcement in a post on Instagram.

Brady, winner of a record seven Super Bowls, said he was quitting after deciding he could no longer make the “competitive commitment” to continue.

“I have always believed the sport of football is an ‘all-in’ proposition -- if a 100% competitive commitment isn’t there, you won’t succeed, and success is what I love so much about our game,” Brady wrote.

“This is difficult for me to write, but here it goes: I am not going to make that competitive commitment anymore.

“I have loved my NFL career, and now it is time to focus my time and energy on

other things that require my attention.”

Brady’s announcement draws a line under three days of feverish speculation that he was preparing to call time on his career.

News of his imminent retirement had been reported by ESPN citing multiple sources close to the player on Saturday.

However, Brady did not comment, with other reports saying he had not decided one way or another.

On Monday, the former New England Patriots star had been coy during an appearance on his own podcast, saying he was considering his future on a day-to-day basis.

Record-studded career “I think when the time’s right I’ll be ready to make a decision one way or

Sports world hails ‘greatest of all time’ Brady LOS ANGELES—The sporting world hailed Tom Brady on Tuesday as the NFL legend announced his retirement after 22 seasons.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Brady, a seven-time Super Bowl winner and holder of a slew of records that may never be beaten, confirmed his retirement in a post on Instagram.

The 44-year-old said he was finally retiring after a career he described as a “thrilling ride.”

Many across the NFL agreed, saluting Brady’s competitive spirit and longevity in one of the world’s most unforgiving sporting crucibles.

“It was an honor and a privilege to compete against him on the field,” Brady’s great quarterback rival and friend Peyton Manning said.

“To do it as long as he did, at the highest of levels is absolutely incredible.”

Former Denver Broncos quarterback and Hall-of-Famer John Elway added:

A view of Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida on the day quarterback Tom Brady confirmed his retirement from the National Football League. AFP

Mitigating, aggravating circumstances THE BOTTOM LINE LITO CINCO I COULD have titled this “the mediation that never was”, and sports fans would have known exactly what I am referring to.

This is the second time I will be dwelling on this, simply because there were more developments and information that have come out. Of course, this is about the current battle raging between pole vaulter EJ Obiena and the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association, headed by the Philip Ella Juico.

The mediation is the one that Philippine Sports Commission chairman

Butch Ramirez has been calling for, with his agency as the mediator.

And unfortunately, for the second time, Obiena again withdrew, saying PATAFA has acted in bad faith and used the supposedly mediation process to silence him. If you are not familiar with the issue on hand, it is about the delayed payments by Obiena to his training coach Vitaly Petrov.

Juico looks at this as estafa and wanted to file a case against Obiena, at the same time take him out of the national track and field team. This did not set well with Philippine Olympic Committee president Bambol Tolentino, who had the POC declare Juico as persona non grata and refuses now to recognize his presidency of PATAFA. I have already said that my sympathies lie more with the athlete, than the sports official in general, even as I said both parties committed lapses in this case.

I have long been in corporate management work, with HR as my core competency, and this covers disciplining employees, just as Juico is disciplining Obiena.

In evaluating disciplinary cases, I always consider what I call mitigating and aggravating circumstances in which the disciplinary sanction on an employee ranges from a reprimand all the way to termination.

Why am I bringing this up now?

In relation to the Obiena- PATAFA case, I managed to read the entire questionnaire from PATAFA that Petrov answered earlier, though he did retract this afterwards after getting paid in full by the Obiena camp in November last year for the services he rendered the past few years (2018 to 2021).

But there were things that already came out from the letters that made me

re-evaluate the case against Obiena for what it is worth, though there more questions that arose in my mind.

Among them is this nagging question whether the delay in payment to Petrov was intentionally delayed and that the training funds were used elsewhere.

I can understand a few months’ delay but not years.

Also, why the matter only emerged after years and did not catch the attention of both the PSC and the PATAFA. Does it mean lapses on the part these two bodies on the supposedly liquidation of funds by Obiena?

Applying what I mentioned earlier, the mitigating circumstances for Obiena are the following, he really should not have been the one managing the training funds, he simply is not an accountant even if you argue it is a relatively simple matter of paying and liquidating. He is a world-ranked pole vaulter, no. 5 in the world and should have been given more consideration and that in the end, the coach received

everything due him after all.

The aggravating part for me would be the overly delayed payment, more so if true that Petrov was initially told there were no training funds available but there were.

If this were a company disciplinary case, believe me, it’s an easy case to decide on, assuming I get the answers to my questions.

For PATAFA, the mitigating circumstances would be the efforts made to unearth what has happened and its willingness to still sit down for mediation.

The aggravating part for me would be the way PATAFA handled the process, with more effort to keep it an internal matter, not to file an estafa case and drop the athlete from the national team.

Now remember, I have nothing to do with the case, I am simply expressing my personal opinion on it, and if you ask what would have been my decision on the matter, I still would not because the facts are not yet complete for me.

And that is the bottom line.

Entertainment Paolo Gumabao

Angeli Khang

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HERE’S a little voyeur in all of us. Whether you admit it or not, we’re obsessed with watching other people. Some even get satisfaction from peeping into a stranger’s life.

Vivamax’s Silip sa Apoy, the controversial erotic drama starring Angeli Khang, Sid Lucero, and Paolo Gumabao, will awaken the little peeping tom in all of us, or at least in audiences who will watch the movie on the streaming platform.

Written by Ricky Lee and directed

by McArthur C. Alejandre, the drama centers on the dilemmas of Emma (Angeli), a young woman who is tired of living with her alcoholic husband, Ben (Sid), for he becomes violent whenever he’s drunk, finds a knight in shining armor through Alfred (Paolo Gumabao). He is their new neighbor who lives beside them.

Every night, Alfred peeps through

the holes of the wall and witnesses marital abuse.

Alfred and Emma eventually fall for one another and have a secret relationship and Alfred promises that they would run away together to escape the wrath and violence of Ben, giving Emma hope to finally have the freedom she’s been longing for.

“To date, this is the most challenging role I have played,” said Angeli, who already appeared in other titillating films Taya, Mahjong Nights, and Eva, during the movie’s

Ali Sotto, Pat-P Daza weigh up election candidates in ‘Mata ng Halalan 2022’ ASPN Primetime hosts and veteran broadcasters Ali Sotto and Pat-P Daza continue to interview national candidates in the upcoming elections.

As part of NET 25’s special election series Mata ng Halalan 2022, Ali and Pat-P help the viewers get to know six more senatorial aspirants this week.

ASPN Primetime has already featured Sen. Risa Hontiveros, former Spokesperson Harry Roque Jr., former Bayan Muna Rep. Neri Colmenares and peace advocate Robin Padilla, and human rights lawyer Chel Diokno, and former Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission chair Greco Belgica.

Apart from scrutinizing the past achievements and future plans of the candidates, ASPN Primetime also aims to know their interests outside of politics.

In the program’s pilot week, Ali and Pat-P interviewed eight senatorial aspirants, namely: Rep. Rodante Marcoleta, former Sen. Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, Dr. Ma. Dominga “Minguita” Padilla, Sen. Joel Villanueva, former Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo, Marawi civic leader Samira Gutoc, and House Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda.

ASPN Primetime airs at 8:00 p.m. from Monday to Thursday on terrestrial TV (Channel 25), Sky Cable (Channel 18), Home Cable (Channel 18), and Global Destiny (Channel 19).

Viewers can also watch the program live and rewatch all previous episodes on the official social media accounts of NET 25, particularly on Facebook and YouTube.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2022

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‘Silip sa Apoy’ heats up the screen

online press event.

The film will not leave anything to your imagination but the young sexy actress explained that she never felt exploited while doing the scenes that could offend some conservatives.

“Sobrang alalay po sila sa akin dito. They never took advantage of me while doing our love scenes.

Maingat po sila and pinoprotektahan nila ako and I really appreciate that,” she went on.

For Lucero, his role as a drunkard and an abusive husband has a specific message that they want to share with the audience.

“I think it’s high time people actually see how evil it is. I learned a lot doing this film and I certainly hope our audiences will learn a thing or two as well,” he said.

Playing another sexy role, Gumabao discussed that the challenge in his role lies in his task to show off some skin and still be able to act.

“They’re really pushing me to my limits and I’m being pushed outside of my comfort zone. It’s not only about showing skin. It takes a lot of focus to be butt naked and then still

TBA Studios celebrates Philippine film history with ‘Habambuhay’ movie Dalagang Bukid marked the beginning of full-length moviemaking in the country back in 1919, this hourlong presentation evolves as a whirlwind journey through the past 100 years of Philippine Cinema.

From the early films of the ‘20s through the ‘40s, to the masterworks of the great directors in the ‘50s and ‘60s (Gerry De Leon, Lamberto Avellana, Manuel Silos, to name a few), to the breakthrough films of Lino Brocka, Ishmael Bernal, and Mike De Leon in the ‘70s and ‘80s, and through the rise of the independent filmmakers of the new millennium (including such auteurs as Brillante Mendoza and Lav Diaz).

The second part is aptly titled “Showbiz Clan: The Eigenmann Legacy.” This episode highlights the ‘Habambuhay’ celebrates the history colorful life and illustrious career of of Philippine filmmaking and the Eddie Mesa and Rosemarie Gil, who veteran artists who made significant have contributed a legacy to Philippine contributions to the industry Cinema not just through the films they starred in, but also through their THE Philippine film industry is facing renowned family of actors. one of its biggest challenges to date with Three of their children—Mark Gil, the global pandemic still ongoing, but Michael de Mesa, and Cherie Gil—are this isn’t the first time the industry has among the country’s most awarded and experienced difficulties. It has in the past highly regarded thespians, having all survived wars, political upheavals, and worked with the industry’s top-notch much more. filmmakers.

Habambuhay, produced by TBA In turn, these children begot children Studios (Heneral Luna, Goyo: Ang of their own, who, like their parents and Batang Heneral), aims to highlight the grandparents before them, are now on the incredible history of filmmaking in the rise and continuing their family’s legacy. country and celebrate some of the artists Altogether, the Eigenmann clan has who paved the way for the Philippine created a major niche for themselves, cinema that we know and love today. continuing to leave a mark in the The first part of this special Philippine film industry through their docuseries opens with the omnibus outstanding performances. episode, “Sandaan (100), Sangandaan Award-winning screenwriter and (Crossroads) / Philippine Cinema at the director Doy Del Mundo helmed this Crossroads.” special two-part series of Habambuhay.

Starting with pioneering filmmaker Both episodes can be viewed for free on Jose Nepomuceno, whose zarzuela TBA Studios’ Youtube Channel.

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com

Sid Lucero

be able to act,” he stated.

Gumabao also believes that the film will open a discussion about marital and domestic abuse.

“Cases of abuse are usually taboo.

It’s either the victim is too afraid to speak up or nahihiya sila and it’s a shame really. I really hope this film

would open up discussions about it,” Gumabao, who himself have starred in a string of sexy films of late, shared.

Described by the director as a dangerous yet alluring story, Silip sa Apoy is now streaming exclusively on Vivamax.

Three MMFF titles, KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad’s fancon on ktx this month KD Estrada (left) and Alexa Ilacad

NO MORE FOMO as ktx.ph brings some of the 2021 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) films this month plus the much-anticipated fan conference of PBB Kumunity Season 10 celebrity housemates KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad.

After its successful run in foreign film festivals and last year’s MMFF, the Carlo Matatad film Whether The Weather is Fine starring MMFF Best Actress Charo Santos and Daniel Padilla becomes available on ktx.ph from Feb. 9 to 13.

Set after the typhoon Yolanda hit Tacloban, Miguel (Daniel), his mother Norma, (Charo), and his friend Andrea (Rans Rifol) are struggling for survival.

As a rescue ship for Manila docks at their port, they must decide on whether to stay or to leave the place they once called home before another storm devours them all.

In Love At First Stream, which streams on ktx.ph from Feb. 8 to 13, four teenagers explore love and friendships online to escape their realities offline. It stars Daniella Stranner, Anthony Jennings, Kaori Oinuma, and Jeremiah Lisbo.

During the pandemic, V (Daniela), a neophyte vlogger asks help from neighbor Tupe (Anthony) and her cousin Megumi (Kaori) to help her become famous. Things get complicated as she joined a livestream dating show with Megumi’s classmate Gino (Jeremiah).

Huwag Kang Lalabas is a trilogy film with a common theme: Do not leave or go outside. It will be available on ktx.ph from Feb. 9 to 12.

The first story, “Kumbento,” centers on Teresa (Beauty Gonzales), a novitiate, who unintendedly uncovers the dark secrets of an old convent. The second one titled “Bahay,” revolves around a mother played by Aiko Melendez who prohibits her son Buboy (Joaquin

Domagoso) from going out of their house after mysterious deaths of uncircumcised teenagers happened in their community. The last episode is “Hotel” topbilled by Kim Chiu and is about a returning OFW who stayed in an old hotel-turnedquarantine facility. After her friends suddenly disappeared, Amor risks her life to find their whereabouts.

The three movies are priced at P249 each.

Meanwhile, KD and Alexa treat their fans to their first digital fan conference called “Closer” on Feb. 26. Just an hour after tickets have been released last Jan. 27, both SVIP and VIP tickets were sold out but regular tickets priced at P199 are still up for grabs. See one of the hottest loveteams this 2022 and be surprised with its entertaining numbers and fun activities in store for the KDLex. Also don’t miss the re-runs of Morissette Amon’s Phoenix: The

Daniel Padilla in 'Kun Maupay Man It Panahon'

Repeat on Feb. 5 and One Dream: The BINI X BGYO concert version 2022 on Feb. 12 and 13.

To book tickets and get more information on the events, visit www. ktx.ph.

The cast of ‘Love At First Stream’

Hit Korean series ‘The Penthouse Season 3’ airs on local TV BEGINNING Feb. 7, GMA Network secret does he hold on Dante? brings back the top-rating K-Drama Phillip Yoo (Park Ho-San), the featuring the intriguing story of husband of Marie (Shin Eun-Kyung) three women from a luxury high-rise and father of Jenny (Jin Ji-Hee), apartment in The Penthouse Season returns to Hera Palace seething 3. and seeking revenge on Dante. At The final season, which is headlined Cheong-A Arts School, Stephanie

by Lee Ji-ah as Simone Shim, Kim (Han Ji-Hyun) faces punishment for So-yeon as Scarlet Cheon, and Eugene her past bullying actions. as Cindy Oh, continues to tell the story Who could have planned to murder of wealthy families living in Hera Logan? The desire for revenge is Palace and their children at Cheong-ah A scene from the K-drama series ‘The Penthouse’ not over yet. The final lap of greed, Arts School. corruption, justice, and redemption Just when Simone (Lee Ji-ah), is just beginning in The Penthouse background. who faked her death in Season 1, thinks Meanwhile, the Hera Palace residents Season 3. she can finally live happily, Logan Lee get out of prison and attempt to get their Find out what happens to the residents (Park Eun-Seok) dies right before lives back together. Simone and Cindy of Hera Palace as their lives become her eyes in the last episode of Season (Eugene) ally with Scarlet (Kim So-yeon) entangled in love, hatred, and intrigue 2 when an explosion takes place by his to take down Dante (Uhm Ki-joon). Soon, once more in The Penthouse Season car. A suspicious elderly man walks by Joaquin Baek (On Joo-Wan) enters the 3, weeknights, 9:35 p.m. on GMA while a mysterious figure watches in the picture as an old friend of Dante. What Telebabad.

Life

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2022

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Post-holiday predicaments

OLIDAYS came and went by so fast and before I thought deeply about it, it’s year 2022. A few days ago we celebrated the Chinese New Year and although it’s a more subdued kind of celebration than what we’re used to before the pandemic, food is still one of the central parts of this gathering.

(and what we ought to do about them)

For some of us, we have yet to reestablish our workout routines having just come from weeks of binge-eating and a break from exercising. Good job to those who were able to continue their exercise routines even during the long holiday period.

I was one of those who (may have enjoyed way too much food and) took a break from exercising. I can list my excuses but the truth is, one should make time for exercise, or for their overall health and wellness. No excuses.

Having said that, I have slowly startBY JOBA BOTANA One should make time for exercise, especially after the holidays ed with my routine again, even if my schedule has been quite hectic for the past weeks. It’s been challenging, to say out. There were quite a few times when I’m looking forward to when I can bined jogging and stretching. and vegetables in at least one meal. In the least, because sometimes, I would I had to make a hard stop at work just to fully establish a more solid exercise When it comes to food choices, I that area, I think I’m doing a good job, rather prefer to hit the sack than sweat it take a 30-minute walk within my area. routine, even if it’s just an hour of com- make it a point to include fresh fruits so far.

JOB WELL DONE

***

OMRON’s newest body composition monitors and digital weight scale provides a comprehensive OMRON products monitors body weight, BMI, body fat percentage, and and accurate view on users’ health. muscle mass percentage

Strengthen your immune system and avoid illnesses by cleaning your home

IF YOU have been avoiding the chore of arms, chest, abdomen, and legs to lift and thoroughly cleaning up all year long, you move things around. Just make sure to bend from the knees—not your back— are not alone.

“Everybody has their reasons for putting when you attempt to lift a heavy object off the task of clearing drawers, closets, from the ground.” and entire rooms of junk,” says Caroline You’ll sleep soundly. Anybody who has C. Aquino, MD from the Department of hit the gym or finished a 10K knows what Pediatrics, Allergology and Immunology comes after that exercise high—sleep.

Section of top hospital in the Philippines, “Same goes with cleaning up. The efMakati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “It’s fort you put into clearing out closets, segexhausting, it regating items takes so much to keep and time, and it give away, and scrubnever ends.” bing down dirt “Yes, cleanand stains is ing and declutphysically extering have hausting. An advantages afternoon nap too—and I’m or good night’s not just refersleep usually ring to the follows.” extra space You’ll imthat you get prove your from throwing mood. And it things out,” isn’t just from Dr. Aquino the endorphins explains. “In that resulted fact, it’s even from hours of good for your declut ter i ng. health.

“The act of Here are Aside from giving you a workout, cleaning can help cleaning has five ways that you sleep soundly, improve your mood and keep your a therapeutic make it so: home safe. effect,” avers Y o u ’ l l Dr. Abes. breathe bet“Throwing out ter. What is it about cleaning out long-forgotten spaces expired products and documents that are no longer relevant, and choosing to donate that makes the air seem fresher?

“Purging your cabinets and closets or sell items that you once refused to let of stuff you have not seen or that hasn’t go of can be liberating. Plus, seeing the moved from its place in years means get- clean and spacious area that you freed up ting rid of all the dust, pet dander, molds, after ridding it of things just waiting to be mildew, and all possible allergens which discarded or given away leaves you with a accumulated in there,” she points out. feeling of accomplishment.”

“To avoid an allergy attack (itchy runny You’ll have a safe home. Did you know nose, watery eyes, sneezing, coughing), that fires and falls are two of the most wear a facemask when you dust, scrub, common accidents at home—and that clutter may be the cause of both? “Flammable and vacuum.”

When doing this, Dr. Aquino advises materials like piles of old newspapers can to clean from high to low, meaning start make fires spread faster. Family members cleaning the highest spots like the top might also have trouble navigating their shelves or ceiling corners, and work your way around clutter and trip. One misstep way down so you will be able to catch the and a senior could break a hip,” says Dr. dust as it settles on lower shelves and the Abes. “In addition, regular cleaning is refloor. Another thing to remember is that ally a must for people with allergies since clothes and other seldom used items can frequent dust exposure can worsen these.

Make your health and family’s safety your collect dust.

You’ll get a good workout. Bored with motivations to finally face what you have been dodging for years and clean up.” your 10,000-steps-a-day routine?

For more information, please contact “Decluttering is definitely a full-body workout,” says Maria Patricia Abes, MD, MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, also a consultant from the Department of email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit Pediatrics, Allergology and Immunology www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamSection. “It uses muscles in the shoulders, MakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

An accurate scale as you aim for a healthier body this year (and beyond) Late last year I told myself I’m going to enjoy food during the holidays but not to the point of overindulgence. Well, I may have enjoyed food a little bit too much. Suffice it to say, I suffered the consequences. I don’t really weigh myself in. Nothing wrong with that but it’s also good to be aware of your weight, to be sure that you’re still within the healthy range of your BMI (body mass index).

A health-conscious friend of mine recommended this digital weight scale brand that’s accurate and of high quality. My last Lazadabought digital weighing scale, I realized later on, wasn’t giving me an accurate number. A visit to my doctor for an annual physical and medical check-up confirmed it.

So, as we (again, for another year) start a healthier lifestyle as well as observe and manage our weight better, let’s try OMRON Healthcare’s

new line of body composition monitor and digital weight scale device. I like that it monitors not only your body weight but also your BMI, body fat percentage, and muscle mass percentage. The brand’s latest body composition monitors with its auto-recognition feature, are smart-sensing devices that give a more comprehensive, accurate, and reliable view of the user’s health within 11 seconds of standing straight on the device.

Personally, I’m not really weight-obsessed but being aware of my weight gain or loss is a good way to track my overall health especially after enjoying way too much food during the holidays. No regrets on that though. More information about OMRON Healthcare’s products and availability can be found at https:// www.omronhealthcare.com.

For comments and feedback, reach the author at joba.botana@gmail.com.

Stay healthy and fit by adopting a proper diet

Partner exercise with healthy eating for better results

By Patricia Taculao IF YOU’RE planning to work out or already are, you know that one way to make all your physical efforts more effective is by consuming the right food and maintaining a proper diet. Doing so will not only provide your body with the calories and nutrients to make you feel energized, but it can also strengthen your immune system against various diseases.

Eating fruits and vegetables is only one part of a good diet. The other part goes to monitoring how much and what we eat. For instance, a study suggests that five servings of fruits and vegetables are the ideal amount to consume in a day. In just about two and a half cups, you can enjoy a plethora of health benefits that come with them.

As for what to eat, a usual tip that comes from health professionals and nutritionists is to consume fruits and vegetables according to the colors of the rainbow. Each corresponding color in fruits and vegetables has a specific advantage in our bodies when consumed.

The first color of the rainbow is red.

Fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, apples, watermelons, and strawberries are rich in lycopene and anthocyanin. The former is an antioxidant known to reduce heart disease risk, protect eyes, fight infections, and protect against damage from tobacco smoke.

Next on the list is the color orange. Pop-

A study suggests that consuming five servings of fruits and vegetables a day improves health.

ular examples include carrots, yams, and pumpkins which contain beta-carotene, a nutrient that converts into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A promotes good eye health and a strong immune system.

Meanwhile, yellow or yellow-orange fruits and vegetables like oranges, lemons, and bananas are good sources of vitamin C. However, as many people already know,

green-leafy vegetables are the ideal food to consume when maintaining or gunning for a healthy lifestyle because they promote the growth of healthy cells and genetic materials. You can also achieve the same health benefits with garlic and onion.

Last but not least is blue to purple-colored fruits and vegetables like eggplants or grapes. They destroy free radicals that come from continuous biochemical reactions in the body.

Shifting or maintaining a healthy diet may not always be easy. We all know how much we enjoy our cheat days. But there are different ways that we can keep things exciting during mealtimes. One is to be creative in serving healthy food. You can either arrange them nicely on a plate or learn new recipes that you could make using fresh, healthy ingredients. Yet, the most important thing to do is to listen to your body.

You can always adjust the kind of healthy food you consume according to what works best for your body and exercise regimen.

And remember, when dealing with fresh produce, wash or cook them thoroughly to remove any impurities that may have latched themselves on the surface of the fruits or vegetables.

Now that we’ve recognized how important our well-being is, it’s time that we embrace a healthier lifestyle so that we can live longer and feel more energized to achieve our goals.