Manila Standard - 2022 February 14 - Monday

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AIRLINES AVOID UKRAINE AS TENSIONS REMAIN HIGH AFTER TALKS FAILED

VOL. XXXVI • NO. 1 • 3SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2022 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

KYIV—Ukraine on Sunday vowed to keep its airspace open to international travel despite Western warnings that Russian troops conducting drills near its borders could invade at any point.

The Dutch carrier KLM on Saturday became the first major airline to indefinitely suspend flights to the former Soviet republic because of the rising risks.

In Washington, efforts to defuse the crisis in Ukraine via a frenzy of telephone diplomacy failed to ease tensions

Saturday, with US President Joe Biden warning that Russia faces "swift and severe costs" if its troops carry out an invasion (see full story on World, page B2 —Editors).

This developed as the Philippine Embassy in Warsaw, Poland remained in touch with the Filipino community in Ukraine, in coordination with the Honorary Consulate General in Kyiv, amid heightened tensions and the United States warning about a possible Next page Russian invasion.

Sara leads by a mile for VP Laylo survey gives her 60% rating, Sotto 19%, Pangilinan 9%, Ong 6%

By Rio N. Araja

L

AKAS-Christian Muslim Democrats vice presidential candidate Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte leads all other candidates for the position across various demographics, including economic class, gender and age, a nationwide survey of 15,450 likely voters shows.

The survey, conducted from Jan. 10 to 26 by Laylo Research, shows that Duterte was picked by 60 percent of respondents as their vice presidential candidate of choice, more than three times the 19 percent that chose the second-place candidate, Senate President Vicente Sotto III. Senator Francis Pangilinan took 9 percent and Dr. Willie Ong got 6 percent.

Ana Maria Tabunda, Pulse Asia executive director, told ABS-CBN in a story posted on its news website that the survey firm has not seen such a big lead post-1986, raising question how Marcos became popular among Filipino voters, despite being out of public office since 2016.

In the same ABS-CBN story, political analyst Tony La Viña, a former dean of the Ateneo School of Government, said Marcos is leading because his campaign has projected him well to voters.

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BBM matches Sara’s 60% rating to top Pulse Asia’s poll for prexy FORMER senator Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. again topped Pulse Asia's latest survey on preferred presidential candidates in the May 9 elections, the pollster said Sunday.

According to the survey conducted last Jan. 19

to 24, Marcos is the first choice among presidential aspirants, with 60 percent of respondents saying they would vote for the son and namesake of the late President "if the May 2022 elections were held today."

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STANDING TALL. Lakas-CMD Vice Presidential Candidate and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte serenades thousands of El Shaddai members Saturday night during Fellowship Prayer at the open field in Parañaque City. On Sunday, her running mate and president aspirant Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. (below) leads a motorcade from Taguig through Makati, finishing at Mandaluyong City. Ver Noveno

LENI ‘KAKAMPINKS’ FLOOD QC CIRCLE NEWS / A4

‘WARM RECEPTION’

BY JOY B FOR ISKO NEWS / A4

Why Marcos up in surveys? Let pundits explain

By Rey E. Requejo

Too early for Alert Level 1 in NCR, say Año, experts

By Willie Casas COVID-19 data analysts and doctors on Sunday cautioned the government against easing to Alert Level 1 too soon, saying other indicators apart from the number of daily new cases should be

LACSON, SOTTO SET DAVAO ORO TALKS NEWS / A4

3,637,280 3,050

LEODY HITS IMEE’S 18-HR WORK JAB NEWS / A2

IF RECENT surveys prove accurate, presidential candidate Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos may emerge as the first majority president since the country will update quarantine guidelines, effec- adopted a multi-party system under the 1987 Constitution. tive February 15 to 28, on Monday.

In a December 2021 survey conductOCTA Research Group fellow Dr. Guido David said it would be better for ed by the Pulse Asia, Marcos got a 53 the NCR and its surrounding areas to percent voter preference, while his rival ease to Alert Level 1 — the lowest in a Vice President Leni Robredo got a ratNext page ing of 20 percent.

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81,394

54,930

0

3,500,956

5,811

(As of 4 PM, FEBRUARY 13)

considered in relaxing restrictions.

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año agreed, cautioning that the National Capital Region should not be downgraded yet from Alert Level 2 especially with the ongoing national election campaign.

The Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF)

Vax drive targets far-flung areas, BARMM next

By Willie Casas and Macon Ramos-Araneta THE third leg of the government’s COVID-19 vaccination drive will focus on far-flung and remote areas of the country, including the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año on Sunday said the BARMM had the lowest vaccination turnout among Next page all regions at 30 percent.

DATE PLACE. Just in time for the Love Month, SM Supermalls is bringing you enhanced malling and romantic dining deals at your favorite SM Malls all month long.

Don’t miss out on these exciting deals, activities, and surprises while #SafeMallingAtSM with your loved ones today on Valentine’s Day and the rest of February.

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News

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2022

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Sara...

From A1

A whopping 65 percent from class ABC picked Duterte, 59 percent did the same from class D, while 61 percent also chose her in class E. A high 62 percent of male survey respondents also chose Duterte, while females also showed solid support of 59 percent.

The Laylo Report also revealed the preferences of three age groups: 18 to 34, 35 to 54, and 55 and above.

The three groups all picked the LakasCMD chairperson with scores of 63 percent, 60 percent, and 57 percent, respectively.

The same report showed that Duterte had a comfortable lead over her rivals in

Why...

From A1

The survey was conducted with 2,400 respondents between Dec. 1 and Dec. 6, 2021, or nearly two months after Marcos filed his certificate of candidacy for president.

Ana Maria Tabunda, Pulse Asia executive director, told ABS-CBN in a story posted on its news website Sunday that the survey firm has not seen such a big lead post-1986, raising question how Marcos became popular among Filipino voters, despite being out of public office since 2016.

In the same ABS-CBN story, political analyst Tony La Viña, a former dean of the Ateneo School of Government, said Marcos is leading because his campaign has projected him well to voters.

“Of course, there is a combination of factors. But, for me, this is not about even Marcos [historical] revisionism winning, is it? It's the failure of the other campaigns to articulate a better future under them than under Marcos," he said.

"This is not about whether they offer a better future or not. It's about the people perceiving them to offer a better future," La Viña added.

Other sources quoted in the ABSCBN article written by Mico Abarro were Narvacan, Ilocos Sur Mayor Luis “Chavit” Singson; Steve Michael Medina Moore Jr., marketing expert and admissions external relations head at De La Salle College of Saint Benilde; Dr. Francis Lawrence De Jesus, chairman of the University of Santo Tomas’ Department of Marketing Management; and Jayeel Cornelio, director of the Ateneo De Manila University's Development Studies Program.

La Viña said Marcos has succeed-

BBM...

From A1

Vice President Leni Robredo came in second with 16 percent. Sen. Manny Pacquiao and Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso each had 8 percent of respondents' support, while Sen. Panfilo Lacson had 4 percent.

Labor leader Ka Leody de Guzman got 0.02 percent, while Ernie Abella got 0.05 percent and Faisal Mangondato 0.3 percent.

The nationwide survey had 2,400 respondents aged 18 and above, with a ± 2% error margin at the 95% confidence level, Pulse Asia said.

Analysts have said election surveys are mere “snapshots of the moment” and do not necessarily predict the outcome of the polls.

Meanwhile, 50 percent of the respondents said they will vote for Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio for vice president.

Senator Vicente Sotto III came in second with 29 percent, followed by Senator Francis Pangilinan with 11 percent.

Dr. Willie Ong followed with 5 percent, Deputy House Speaker Lito Atienza with 1 percent, and former lawmaker Walden Bello with 0.02 percent.

Pulse Asia said it asked respondents in its latest survey to pick a second choice in case their initial bet ends up not pursuing his or her presidential bid.

The survey showed 24 percent of respondents will choose Domagoso should their original choice for president withdraw from the election. Lacson and Pacquiao followed with 14 percent each, Robredo with 13 percent, and Marcos with 10 percent.

In the vice-presidential race, Sotto is the top second-choice candidate with 35 percent of respondents saying they will vote for him should their original candidate back out of the elections.

The latest Pulse Asia survey showed that Marcos enjoys the support of the majority across all geographic locations, as well as across socioeconomic classes CDE. In the Dec. 1-6 survey of Pulse Asia, Marcos got 53 percent of support, followed by Robredo at 20 percent.

For the vice presidency, DuterteCarpio is the most preferred aspirant in Visayas (47 percent), Mindanao (84 percent), and across socio-economic classes CDE. Sotto ruled in the Balance Luzon (37 percent) and in the National Capital Region (36 percent).

Meanwhile, the BBM-Sara UniTeam

terms of trust rating.

For the entire country, Duterte garnered a net trust rating of 56 percent, with her closest rival only mustering 18 percent.

Meanwhile, El Shaddai leader Mike Velarde on Sunday urged Filipinos to unite behind the country’s next set of leaders to be elected in May. He told his followers that the message of hope and unity the UniTeam tandem of ex-senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte has encouraged him to support them.

“The two have long been seeing me.

It is time for us Filipinos to unite. After all, we have already given the rivals of Marcos the chance to govern for so many years. These two might do something good for the country. That’s why I have chosen them,” he said. ed in gaining the reputation of being a man who can change the country, just like Rodrigo Duterte in 2016, Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III in 2010, Joseph Estrada in 1998, and actor Fernando Poe Jr. when he nearly beat President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in 2004.

"All those successful presidential candidates, basically they came in and said: 'We will change the Philippines for the better'," La Viña said.

"And Bongbong Marcos has done a good job, whether it's true or not, of being perceived like that," added the analyst -- who is also a Manila Standard opinion columnist.

La Viña also pointed to Marcos’s “Solid North” followers are bolstered by those of President Rodrigo Duterte.

“This is not rocket science. It’s really just a combination of two groups of voters. Marcos voters and Duterte voters are together in one vote right now,” he said.

"If you remove at least half of Duterte's supporters from Marcos, Marcos will be left with 25 (percent plus) 12, (equals) 37-38 (percent)."

Nonetheless, La Viña said part of Marcos's success has been the whitewashing of the Marcos family’s past.

“Through social media, through revisionism of the Marcos legacy, through just constant positive news about him in circles. In limited circles, micro-targeted groups of people have really bypassed the anti-Marcos ecosystem. The antiMarcos ecosystem did not see this coming,” he told ABS-CBN. He said the core of this problem is that people choose what they like to follow on social media, which allows the proMarcos community to grow even bigger.

La Viña also said the country's electoral politics is too personality-oriented.

(See full story online at manilastandard. net) has assured its solid support for Quezon City mayoralty aspirant Anakalusugan Partylist Rep. Mike Defensor and his running-mate Winnie Castelo in the coming May 2022 elections.

In a statement, lawyer Vic Rodriguez, chief of staff and spokesperson of presidential candidate Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr., said that Bongbong and Inday Sara will be joined by tens of thousands of supporters from Team Defensor in the UniTeam rally on Monday, Valentine’s Day. The event will be held at the Amoranto Sports Complex in Quezon City, where BBM and the UniTeam senatoriables will discuss their platforms on how a unifying governance under Bongbong hopes to thread out of the crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Rodriguez also rebuffed attempts by some groups to drive a wedge between the UniTeam and Team Defensor by spreading the fake news that their opponents are also being supported by the BBM-Sara tandem.

He also qualified that the Amoranto event will be used as a platform by Bongbong and Sara to declare their unqualified support to Team Defensor while also calling on their supporters to hold fast on their commitment to a unified and healing leadership.

For his part. Defensor thanked the UniTeam’s unequivocal support and assured that they will return it in the form of excellent public service for the residents of Quezon City.

Political analysts said the UniTeam’s endorsement for local bets would merit a 70% influence among Quezon City electorate, which could be the telling difference in the outcome of the city’s elections.

Last December, the BBM-Sara UniTeam launched its caravan in Quezon City that drew thousands of supporters.

With thousands of adoring supporters lining up in the streets, the caravan that started from Commonwealth Avenue in front of the Commission on Audit office to the Welcome Rotonda in the boundary of Quezon City and Manila took more than five hours to complete.

In recent survey results conducted

by The Issues and Advocacy Center, Defensor got 53 % votes compared to the 39 % of incumbent Mayor Joy Belmonte.

The survey was conducted from January 10-16 from 1,200 respondents.

Like the Defensor-Castello tandem, the BBM-Sara UniTeam also dominates in all reputable survey firms all over the country.

Vote-rich Quezon City and Manila are the only cities in the Philippines who have over one million total voters each.

Rey E. Requejo

DEFIANT. Demonstrators shout slogans as they stand with lit flares on a bridge adorned with a banner 'Ukranians will resist - Say No to Putin' during a rally in Kyiv on February 12, held to show unity amid US warnings of an imminent Russian invasion. AFP

Airlines...

From A1

In Manila, Senator Panfilo Lacson, who heads the Senate Committee on Defense and Security, called on the national government to be proactive in approaching this issue and take all the necessary measures to protect Filipinos there like what other nations have already been doing.

Stressing that "nobody wins in a war," Lacson—the presidential candidate of Partido Reporma in the May 9 elections —aired deep concerns over the latest developments in Ukraine.

“We might think that Ukraine is far away, and that there is no danger for the Philippines, but we are all living in a global village. What is happening in Ukraine may create instability and other potential flashpoints in the world including that of our region,” he said in a statement.

Gonar Musor, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public and Cultural Diplomacy, said approximately 380 Filipino nationals are living in Ukraine.

"Most are in Kyiv and its environs and are therefore located far from the eastern border near Russia," he said in a statement.

Western leaders have been shuttling back and forth to Moscow in the hopes of persuading Putin to stand his troops down.

Ukraine's budget airline SkyUp said

Too...

From A1

five-tier alert level system that dictates restrictions — by March.

David said it is possible for NCR to be classified as "very low risk" to COVID-19 around that period.

This was as the Philippines logged on Sunday 3,050 new cases of COVID-19, the lowest so far this year, bringing the total to 3,637,280, the Department of Health (DOH) reported.

Positivity rate was at 11.7 percent, based on 31,403 individuals tested for COVID-19 on February 11, also the lowest since Dec. 29 last year.

All laboratories were operational, but two laboratories were not able to submit their data on time.

“In the coming days, we really need to be on guard, as the election nears, poll activities are getting more intense especially at the start of the local election period," Ano said in a radio interview.

Candidates for the House of Representatives, regional, provincial, city, and municipal positions will begin their campaign on March 25.

"Given two weeks, I think we could be

Vax...

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The Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines have been tapped to assist local government units in bringing vaccine doses to these areas, he said.

In these areas, he added, people should be allowed to walk in and get vaccinated and not all of them would have online access to register for jabs.

Año said they are also working it out to ensure that the vaccination matches the schedule of the target population as it usually complicates their time for work.

“Remote areas in provinces really need to be focused on because most of them live in mountain ranges and slopes.

So, we need to spread the word, bring the vaccination sites closer to them,” he said in Filipino.

“We need to find these people to make sure that they are really safe because whatever the variant, when the virus arrives, the seniors and those who have comorbidities are vulnerable. They need not only the primary doses, but also boosters,” he added.

Ka Leody renews 6-hour shortened workday proposal

on Sunday that its flight from Portugal to Kyiv was forced to land in Moldova because the plane's Irish leasing company had revoked permission for it to cross into Ukraine.

"The airspace over Ukraine remains open and the state is working on preempting risks for airlines," the infrastructure ministry said after convening an emergency meeting focused on the threat of Ukraine being cut off from international flights.

Industry analysts believe other international airlines may soon also ban flights into Ukraine because of the growing cost to travel insurers.

The travel industry is still haunted by the memory of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 being shot down while flying near eastern Ukraine's conflict zone in July 2014. All 298 passengers aboard the Amsterdam-Kuala Lumpur flight died.

Ukraine's infrastructure ministry acknowledged that "some carriers are facing difficulties linked to fluctuations on the insurance market".

"For its part, the state is prepared to support airlines and provide them with additional financial guarantees in order to support the market," it said.

In London, British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace has compared Western diplomatic efforts to head off a Russian invasion of Ukraine to the appeasement of Nazi Germany ahead of World War II. AFP with Macon Ramos-Araneta (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Labor leader and presidential aspirant Leody De Guzman has laid down a proposal to shorten work hours from 8 to 6 hours a day without reducing pay, and that shortening the working day is a fight that should continue.

This came a day after he criticized a video featuring Senator Imee Marcos that apparently mocked people who work up to 18 hours a day.

“Before, work was done 12 to 16 hours a day with no overtime premium.

But the universal standard of the 8-hour work day has already been enacted, thanks to the combined efforts of workers both in and outside of government," De Guzman said in Tagalog in a statement.

“As technology has advanced, people should gain more control of their lives. We are not attached to a machine, or a simple tool used for the operation of companies,” he added in defending a shorter workday.

This was after the labor leader blasted Marcos, sister of presidential candidate Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who in a video titled "Pagod Len Len" seemed to agree with a statement saying that "anyone who claims to work 18 hours a day is either lying or stupid." (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

okay to deescalate to Alert Level 1," David added in an interview on ABS-CBN's TeleRadyo.

Even though NCR is currently classified "low risk" based on OCTA's standards, the group still hopes the region will have a lower positivity rate and average daily attack rate (ADAR) when it relaxes restrictions, David said.

NCR's positivity rate is still at 8.6 percent while the ADAR is at 5, David said.

"We're still hoping we can lower the positivity rate, down to at least 5 percent,” he said, referring to the World Health Organization's benchmark.

"We could be a little bit more cautious in our approach," David added.

In a separate TeleRadyo interview, Philippine College Physicians (PCP) President Dr. Maricar Limpin also said the government should look at the positivity rate and ADAR before shifting to Alert Level 1.

"What we fear is relaxing restrictions too quickly,” Limpin said.

"Let's be sure that we're not just looking at the number of cases reported by the DOH. Let's also see if we've prepared an entire area or the entire country for Alert Level 1,” she said.

David said the number of COVID-19 cases in some areas remain high even though they are declining, citing the Cordillera region, Iloilo City, and parts of Mindanao.

David said there is also a need to get more people vaccinated and boosted against the respiratory illness "to prevent future surges.”

The country saw a spike in new cases beginning late December until last month due to the omicron variant.

Under Alert Level 1, intrazonal and interzonal travel would be allowed despite age and comorbidity, according to the DOH website.

All establishments and activities, meanwhile, will be permitted to operate "full on-site or venue/seating capacity," the DOH said.

David and Limpin echoed the reminders of authorities for the public to continue following the minimum health protocols.

“When we say Alert Level 1, only minimum health standards will be left and then everything is already allowed, all activities are almost 100 percent. We might not be able to handle it,’’ Año added. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

The third Bayanihan Bakunahan was extended until Feb. 18 from the initial schedule of Feb. 10 to 11.

As of Feb.13, a total of 60,013,407 individuals have been completely vaccinated against COVID-19 in the country while 60,674,767 have had their first dose.

A total of 8,011,994 have also received booster doses.

The government is eyeing to fully vaccinate 90 million Filipinos, including children aged zero to four by the end of June 2022.

COVID-19 vaccination for children zero to four has yet to begin in the Philippines, while inoculation for 12 to 17 years old and 5 to 11 started in November and February, respectively.

Meanwhile, the chief of the country’s Vaccine Expert Panel (VEP) said a fourth vaccine booster shot may be administered to the immunocompromised.

VEP chief Dr. Nina Gloriani, in an interview on radio dzBB interview, said that since the immunocompromised receive three primary series of COVID-19 vaccines, their fourth dose may serve as their booster shot.

Currently, the Department of Health (DOH) is administering third doses to se-

nior citizens and immunocompromised, while booster shots are given to those who have finished the three to six-month requirement after receiving their second dose.

Gloriani said that the government has not discussed plans regarding the administration of a second booster shot as there is not enough data yet regarding that.

Earlier, infectious disease expert Dr. Rontgene Solante also said it was important that the public receive just one COVID-19 booster shot after their primary vaccine series as there was yet no data to prove that boosters have to be administered every three to six months.

Also, over the weekend, the director of the Department of Health Calabarzon, Ariel Valencia, emphasized the importance of vaccinating children as limited face-to-face classes loomed.

“The activity we are doing for our children is very important because we are preparing their return to the new normal when they return to school,” Valencia said.

DOH Calabarzon and the City Government of Dasmariñas inoculated a total of 849 children during the kickoff of vaccination of 5-11 years old Ugnayang La Salle (ULS), Dasmariñas Cavite on Feb. 12.

News ILO assured of probes on labor violations in PH THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Sunday assured the International Labour Organization (ILO) that cases had been filed and investigations are progressing on reported trade union rights violations.

This after the ILO noted a report on “new grave allegations of violence and intimidations” against workers.

DOLE said there are functional administrative mechanisms and legal remedies that monitor and address cases of violations of labor and trade union rights.

“Reports or allegations of workers’ rights violations are acted up by the DOLE’s national and regional tripartite monitoring bodies (RTMBs).

They help ensure the full and swift investigation and resolution of the alleged acts of killings, harassment, and abduction of trade union leaders and members through the active involvement of workers’ and employers’ representatives in case monitoring,” Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said.

Bello said at least 60 cases of extrajudicial killing and attempted murder under the present administration are under the close watch by these monitoring bodies. “Out of this number, 20 are pending with the courts, and the rest are progressing under regular criminal investigation,” the labor chief added.

Bello called on trade unions and workers to report violations of workers’ rights to the RTMBs, which, despite having no investigative powers, help ensure the full and swift resolution of the alleged acts of killings, harassment, and abduction of trade union leaders and members.

The labor secretary also enjoined trade union leaders and workers to file criminal complaints against those who ‘red-tag’ them, saying this is punishable under the Revised Penal Code and other laws which criminalize any act of persecution committed against an identifiable group on political grounds, the Writ of Habeas Corpus, the Writ of Amparo, and the Writ of Habeas Data.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2022

A day before Valentine’s Day, a couple poses before a gigantic heart display made of flowers at SM City Mall in Antipolo, Rizal.

Flower shop owners at Dangwa in Manila display bouquets with heartshaped balloons ahead of Valentine’s Day.

These pets found their perfect match and were treated to a special Valentine’s Day pet date at SM City Taytay’s Paw Park in partnership with Nutrichunks.

LOVE IN ALL FORMS. More than 222 lesbian gay bisexual transgender couples (LGBT+) exchanged vows at the Quezon Memorial Circle to commemorate Valentine’s Day. A man wearing a Cupid costume brings joy to the people shopping for flowers as he walks in the streets near flower shops and stores in Dangwa.

Manny Palmero, Norman Cruz and Danny Pata

PH raises cap on OFW deployment

T

HE government has raised the limit on health workers being deployed abroad, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) said.

POEA deputy administrator Villamor Ventura Plan said the deployment cap has been pegged at 7,000. This figure is higher than the 3,500-cap set in 2021, the official said.

Plan said the POEA is also “in talks” with the Commission on Higher Education and the Department of Health if the

government can maintain the limit.

This is necessary, the official said, because the Philippines also needs to determine its own demand for health workers. He noted that for instance, nurses also need to look for better opportunities and that it will be difficult from stopping them to do so.

The POEA is also in talks with the

Commission on Higher Education and the Department of Health to see if the deployment cap will be maintained, Plan said, noting that the country’s demand for health workers must also be considered.

Recently, the government imposed an annual limit on the deployment of nurses and other health workers. The main consideration is to make sure the country has enough medical frontliners as COVID-19 rages on.

The POEA reported that nurses and other health care workers are in demand

in Australia and New Zealand.

Plan also said countries continue to express willingness to reopen for Filipino workers. The most recent is Taiwan. Plan said the POEA currently has 5,000 workers that can be immediately deployed to Taiwan, as soon as Taiwan reopens its border on Feb. 15.

Aside from Taiwan, the Philippines also has an agreement to send health care workers to other countries, including Germany, eastern European countries, and the Middle East.

JBC sends list of nominees for 5 key CA posts

By Rey E. Requejo

Poll bets urged not to use tarps, reduce waste THE EcoWaste Coalition is urging candidates for the upcoming polls from hanging “Happy Valentine’s Day” plastic tarpaulins to cut down on waste and pollution.

In lieu of the tarpaulins, the advocacy group for a zero waste and toxics-free society persuaded political aspirants to commit to serving the people and the environment and to articulate the same in their public service platforms.

“Happy Valentine tarpaulins, especially during the campaign season, hardly mean anything to the electorate and can be completely avoided,” said Jove Benosa, Zero Waste Campaigner, EcoWaste Coalition.

The EcoWaste Coalition pointed out that cutting back on tarpaulins will certainly trim down campaign expenses, noting that the bulk production price for such type of campaign paraphernalia is about P5 to P10 per square foot.

More importantly, reduced production of campaign tarpaulins will translate to a lesser volume of plastic waste laden with harmful chemicals, the group emphasized.

Tarpaulins, which are often made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic, contain toxic chemical additives such as cadmium-bearing stabilizers that are used to slow down degradation when PVC materials and other polymers are exposed to sunlight, the group said.

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CAVITE FIRE. Scavengers take whatever is left from the 100 houses gutted by

the fire in Brgy. 24 and Brgy. 25 in Cavite City on Sunday, February 13. The Cavite Fire Department reported that the fire started from faulty electrical wirings. Victims are now staying at an evacuation center in Ladislao Diwa Elementary School. (Inset) Residents brought useful items in the aftermath of the fire in Cavite City. Reports said 760 households were affected by the fire. The Cavite Fire Department reported that the fire was out around 5:10 pm. Danny Pata and JR Josue

Defensor: LGBT Filipinos qualified to adopt kids LESBIAN, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) Filipinos are legally qualified to adopt children, Rep. Michael “Mike” Defensor (Anakalusugan) said on Sunday.

“We must stress that under the law, the right to adopt a child is granted to individuals, and not to couples,” Defensor, vice chairperson of the House committee on welfare of children, said.

“Our adoption law does not discriminate against LGBT individuals who may wish to adopt children who are legally

available for adoption,” Defensor, who is running for Quezon City mayor, said.

Defensor made the statement to correct the widespread public misperception that only a husband and wife may adopt a child. “We want to encourage the adoption of abandoned and neglected children so that they may enjoy the living conditions conducive to their full development,” Defensor said.

“We would also prefer domestic over foreign adoption to preserve the child’s identity and culture here at home,” Defensor said.

Under the law, Defensor said any Filipino citizen at least 25 years old may adopt a child who is legally available for adoption.

Defensor said the only requirements are that the citizen has full civil capacity and legal rights; has not been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude; is of good moral character and can model the same; is emotionally and psychologically capable of caring for the child; is at least 16 years older than the adoptee; and has the means to support and care for the child.

THE Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) has submitted to President Rodrigo Duterte its shortlist of nominees aspiring for five vacant posts in the Court of Appeals, the second-highest court in the country.

Among those nominated for CA associate justice posts include: Snooky Maria Ana Cauan Bareno Sagayo, Jaime Fortunato Abat Caringal, Lorna Francisca Vanadas Catris Chua Cheng, Mercedita Gozo Dadole Ygnacio, Jose Lorenzo Relova Dela Rosa, Olivia Venzon Escubio Samar, Jill Rose Solier Jaugan Lo, Raymond Joseph Guevarra Javier, Wilhelmina Bago Jorge Wagan, Rogelio Gilzano Largo, Mary Josephine Dela Pena Lazaro, Emilio Rodolfo Yabut Legaspi III, Arthur Oliveros Malabaguio, Lily Ann De Vera Marcos Padaen, J. Ermin Ernest Louie Ramirez Miguel, Rosalyn Dagami Mislos Loja, Rex Bernardo Leano Pascual, Rosanna Fe Abellanosa Romero Maglaya, and Emily Laderas San Gaspar Gito.

Five of the nominees who will be appointed will replace CA Associate Justice Jhoseph Y. Lopez who was promoted to the Supreme Court (SC) on Jan. 26, 2021, retired CA Associate Justices Danton Q. Bueser, Edgardo T. Lloren, and Elihu A. Ybanez, the late Associate Justice Franchito N. Diamante.

The JBC nominations were signed by Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo as ex-officio chairman of the council, Justice Secretary Menardo I. Guevarra as ex-officio member, Rep. Vicente S.E. Veloso III as ex-officio member, and Jose Catral Mendoza, Toribio E. Ilao Jr., Noel Gimenez Tijam, and Franklin J. Demonteverde as regular members.

Solon hopeful on signing of law vs online scams

By Rio N. Araja CAMARINES Sur Rep. Luis Ray Villafuerte on Sunday said Filipinos are likely to benefit soon from a measure passed by the Congress last week that would empower the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the rest of the banking commu-

nity to better protect financial consumers against phishing and other online scams, such as those that recently defrauded BDO Unibank and the Land Bank of the Philippines depositors.

“We are hopeful that President Duterte will sign this measure into law as soon as the enrolled bill is submitted

to Malacañan Palace,” he said.

Villafuerte is one of the authors of the House-approved consolidated bill that aims “to regulate the use of bank accounts and electronic wallets and consider certain illegal financial acts related to their use as a form of economic sabotage and a heinous crime if done on a large scale.”

Navotas to conduct house-to-house vax anew

By Jun David

CHILDREN’S VAX PARTY. Children accompanied by their parents went to the SM City Mall in Masinag Antipolo City, Rizal, for an ongoing pediatric vaccination. A children’s party theme was set up for the vaccination for children 5 to 11 years old. Manny Palmero

THE Navotas City government of Navotas will once again conduct houseto-house COVID-19 vaccination services to bedridden constituents.

Starting February 14, Valentine’s Day, the mobile vaccination team

will visit each of the 18 barangays to administer AstraZeneca booster shots to residents unable to physically go to any of the vaccination sites in the city.

“We want Navoteños, especially those sick and vulnerable, to remain protected against Covid-19. If they can’t

go to our vaccination sites, then we will bring the vaccines to them,” Mayor Toby Tiangco said.

“If you have a family member who has been vaccinated and are ready to receive their booster dose, have them registered so they can receive their jabs as soon as possible,” he added.

A4

Comelec: Tech provider can’t rig poll results

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2022

News

PINK SUNDAY. Presidential and Vice presidential aspirants Leni Robredo and Francis Pangilinan as well as their senatorial bets (inset: aerial photo of rally) parade at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City Sunday during the Proclamation Rally. Manny Palmero/VPLR Media Bureau

Leni supporters flock to QCMC for people’s rally

By Rio N. Araja OVER 20,000 pink-clad supporters of Vice President Leni Robredo on flocked Sunday to her People’s Proclamation Rally to support her presidential bid in Quezon City.

Robredo said she was taken aback to learn there were more than 20,000 people who showed up, citing she was only expecting 5,000 participants.

“If I am not mistaken, this is my third or fourth time to be at the QC Memorial Circle. But the crowd this morning is entirely different,” she said.

“This morning (Sunday), only 5,000 are anticipated to come. I told my team not to write down that there are expected 5,000 people since we might not be able to accommodate them. It would be okay to say that supporters have been invited but don’t come up with numbers as if nobody wants to listen to me,” she added.

But Quezon City government flagged Robredo’s camp and her supporters for violation of some health protocols when they stormed the Quezon Memorial Circle for her proclamation rally.

“Unfortunately, today’s ‘Pink Sunday’ event organized by supporters of Vice President Leni Robredo and Senator Francis Pangilinan resulted in a spillover crowd that violated several restrictions that were mutually agreed upon. While crowd control is a highly complicated aspect of large gatherings, it is a test of discipline for the organizers and attendees to show that their chosen candidates observe the laws of the land,” its statement read.

PNP urges candidates: Observe caravan rules

P

HILIPPINE National Police chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos urged candidates to observe campaign guidelines, particularly the Metro Manila Development Authority’s directive prohibiting caravans in major thoroughfares on weekdays.

He said scheduling arrangement would be convenient for the motorists and commuters rushing to and from their destinations in the metropolis on weekdays.

“I hope that the candidates and their supporters will understand that they should not be the cause of delay for the general public,” Carlos said in a statement Saturday night.

Carlos, however, agreed with the MMDA’s policy that campaign caravans should only be allowed on weekends and holidays in Metro Manila.

“This will be practical since less-

er volume of vehicles are out on the streets,” he said.

He added the PNP would assist in whatever possible way to ensure the smooth flow of traffic for the benefit of the people.

“May we also remind them to get the necessary permit from the LGU (local government unit) concerned whenever they want to conduct a motorcade or caravan,” he said.

The 86-day campaign period for candidates seeking national elective positions started on February 8, with proclamation rallies by the different po-

litical parties in different areas of the country.

There are 10 candidates running for president while nine bets are vying for the vice presidential seat.

There are 64 senatorial aspirants who will be vying for 12 senatorial seats while there are 178 party-list candidates.

The campaign period for local candidates -- which includes members of the House of Representatives, and elective provincial, city, and municipal officials -- will officially kick off on March 25.

The MMDA, meanwhile, gace assurances Sunday of strict and fair enforcement of its policies for all candidates planning to hold motorcades along major roads in the capital region, where 13 million of the 110 million plus country’s population live.

ISKO WELCOME. Presidential candidates Manila mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso and Vice presidential teammate Willie Ong are greeted by supporters during their campaign motorcade in F. Munoz, boundery of Manila-Pasay on Sunday.

Norman Cruz

COMMISSION on Elections spokesman James Jimenez Sunday diminished fears that Smartmatic’s election technology system might compromise election results in the May 9, 2022 national polls.

“I would like to assure the public that Smartmatic is only a supplier of the election machines. The Comelec is still the one running the polls,” he told a Super Radyo dzBB interview.

Jimenez made the clarification after the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center earlier claimed the system of Smartmatic had been compromised.

While the CICC believes that there was indeed no hacking on the servers of the poll body, its executive director Cezar Mancao II said they have found out that the system of Smartmatic was breached.

Smartmatic bagged the P402.7-million contract to provide software for the May 2022 automated elections.

To ensure that no issue will occur in the upcoming polls, Jimenez said they were coordinating with Smartmatic, together with law-enforcement agencies, to identify the source of the problem.

“We understand that Smartmatic’s name is attached to the election, whether it is right or wrong. We are working with law enforcement agencies to ensure that the culprits in this potential problem with Smartmatic are tracked down and punished,” Ji,enez said.

He said that people should not worry about a possible manipulation of election results when these are transported from election precincts to the Board of Canvassers.

“There is no chance of results going through Smartmatic. It’s all selfcontained in the Comelec system.”

Lacson, Sotto hold dialogues in Davao Oro

By Macon Ramos-Araneta MINDANAOANS in the “Food Basket of the Philippines” expressed their trust that Partido Reporma presidential candidate Panfilo Lacson and his slate will help improve their provinceDavao Oro, and meet their needs in agriculture, technology, peace and order, environment, and education.

On the second day of their campaigning in Mindanao, Lacson and running mate Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III held a dialogue at the Lorenzo National High School in Mawab to introduce themselves and their senatorial candidates and to elaborate on their platforms and advocacies.

They were warmly received by around 2,600 supporters, including local officials, who wanted to know what are the goals, plans and programs of the Partido Reporma candidates for Mindanao and the whole country.

Meanwhile, the success being experienced by Davao del Norte province can be replicated in this province formerly known as Compostela Valley – as long as its people vote for the “pinakatarong” (most decent or upstanding) candidate for President in the May 9 national elections.

‘Presidential bets welcome Belmonte leads ‘warm reception’ for Domagoso in Quezon City in Sorsogon’

By Rey E. Requejo

By Macon Ramos-Araneta ALL presidential aspirants and those running for national elective positions are welcome to campaign in Sorsogon, former Senator Francis Escudero, now governor of the province, said.

He said this move would afford Sorsoganons to know the candidates better and their platform of government before they cast their ballots in the May 9 elections.

Escudero, who is seeking a comeback in the Senate under Vice President Leni Robredo’s ticket, said all political parties could freely campaign in Sorsogon and present their agenda for governance— an assurance he made long before the start of the official campaign period for national elective posts on February 8.

“Part of my commitment to my constituents is to afford them as many opportunities as possible to meet the candidates, not only to see them and to know them, but more importantly to empower and enable the Sorsoganons to decide for themselves who to support and vote for in the coming elections,” said Escudero, the only incumbent governor in the country who is running for the Senate.

MANILA Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso’s campaign sortie on Saturday got a “warm reception” in Quezon City with no less than Mayor Joy Belmonte personally welcoming the presidential tandem of Aksyon Demokratiko standard bearer and his running mate Dr.

Willie Ong. Belmonte was holding a caucus with local leaders and residents at a covered basketball court in Barangay Commonwealth when the “Team Isko-Doc Willie” motorcade made a brief stop-over and upon seeing each other, the two mayors briefly embraced before exchanging pleasantries.

“Many, many thanks to our beloved Mayor Joy Belmonte and our councilors who are here, especially to our friends who helped us move around here in your area. Many, many thanks,” Moreno said, while being cheered by the people attending the meeting.

“For telling your relatives to meet us here in your barangay, thank you very

much for your warm welcome. I can feel you. I love you,” Moreno said.

Belmonte said she was happy that Moreno, whom she considers as a longtime friend, included Quezon City in his campaign sortie.

“Of course, we are very happy, Isko and I have been friends for a long time.

His motorcade passed right here (at the

Tulfo tops senatorial survey

REHAB PROJECT. Tingog Party List Rep Yedda Marie Romualdez (left) formally turns

over the completed rehabilitation project multi-purpose Jasmin Covered court worth P4,800 for the benefit of Barangay Batasan Hills residents in Quezon City. Barangay Chairman Jojo Abad and other barangay officials thank Tingog Party List for helping their barangay. Miko Noveno

BROADCASTER Raffy Tulfo topped Pulse Asia Research Inc.’s Eleksyon 2022 senatorial aspirants survey, which was conducted from January 19 to 24, before the start of the campaign period.

The survey showed Tulfo with a 66.1 percent rating, ahead of Former House Speaker and Taguig Representative Alan Peter Cayetano and Antique Representative Loren Legarda with 58.2 pertcent and 58 percent, respectively.

Sorsogon Governor Francis “Chiz” Escudero followed with 55.7 percent, former Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar with 52.9 percent, and Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri with 50.3 percent.

According to Pulse Asia, among the

64 individuals seeking a Senate seat in the 2022 elections, 13 have a statistical chance of winning.

The other senatorial candidates with a statistical chance of winning as of January 2022 were Senator Sherwin Gatchalian (45.9 percent), former vice president Jejomar Binay (44.5 percent), former senator Jinggoy Estrada (40.4 percent), Senator Joel Villanueva (40.4 percent), Senator Risa Hontiveros (37.1 percent), actor Robin Padilla (35.9 percent), and former senator JV Estrada Ejercito (33.9 percent).

The survey was conducted among 2,400 individuals aged 18 years old and above, with a ± 2% error margin with a 95% confidence level.

Opinion A reason to be wary

AS WE go past into the first week of the election campaign for national positions, we bear witness to different strategies and tactics being waged by each candidate as they try to lure voters into their respective camps. The singing and dancing on stage have started, fancy motorcades and caravans have started lining up on streets.

One candidate even had the gall to use the Pope Mobile; her supporters claim nothing’s wrong with such an act.

Well, that mobile was specifically designed for use by the Pope whom we Catholics so much revere. Say, what would these people do if the presidential car, which as the name implies, is specifically designed for use by the president, is used by a candidate for his or her campaign sortie?

Anyway, before they indulge too much into their respective campaigns, I hope each of their camp is seriously looking into another matter of major concern for something much, much bigger which concerns all the other candidates is brewing over at the poll body – the transparency, or the apparent lack of it, specifically on the preparatory stage for the election requirements including that of the ballot printing and the uploading of the contents on the SD cards.

While retired Comelec Chairman Sheriff Abas has vowed to ensure transparency with the election preparation before he stepped down from office, allowing representatives from interested parties to observe poll preparations, it seems Comelec Commissioner Marlon Casquejo is not too keen to heed the former chair’s directive. Up to now, no representatives from all the participating political parties in the May 9 polls, and even from the media have been allowed entry to the Comelec warehouse in Sta. Rosa and inside the National Printing Office.

Casquejo is the head of the National and Local Elections Steering Committee.

This even as officials of different political parties have sent letters to the Comelec requesting the following: 1. A walk through and visit to the COMELEC Sta Rosa warehouse to observe the a. Uploading of contents to the SD Cards; b. Stress testing of the Vote Counting Machines; and, c. To be allowed to randomly open and see the inside of the VCM similar to that which was conducted in 2016; 2. A walk through, visit and deployment of observers to the National Printing

PERUVIAN President Pedro Castillo has adopted a unique measure in a bid to lift his falling popularity and resolve a series of political crises: he has ditched his iconic white cowboy hat.

The hat has been an important feature of Castillo’s humble rural-school teacher image that helped propel him to the presidency.

But for three days running this week, Castillo has appeared in public without his “sombrero.”

Having been forced into a fourth cabinet reshuffle in just six months as president and with his disapproval rating hitting 60 percent, Castillo allegedly sought the advice of Saul Alanya, a leadership and self-improvement coach.

“I suspect that the image ‘coach’ advised him that he had to change and should start with the hat,” political analyst Augusto Alvarez Rodrich told AFP. “The problem is that he has taken off the hat but not the ideas that were beneath it.”

Castillo has come under fire during his short presidency with critics blaming his political inexperience and lack of management skills for the instability of his successive cabinets.

The 52-year-old says he is the victim of a campaign by political opponents and some media actors to try to force him from power, hitting out at “anti-democratic attitudes of certain sectors that just want to destabilize the country.”

Office; and 3. The conduct of an end-to-end demonstration of the election system to see the codes and scripts as data is passed on from the VCM to the CCS similar to the 2019 election preparations.

Unfortunately, Comelec to date, has failed to act on said requests.

According to officials of the different political parties, they have been sending representatives to the NPO and the Comelec Sta. Rosa warehouse each day only to be shunned by security guards telling them they have no directive coming from the Comelec to allow them entry. For the information of everyone, the NPO has an observation room where representatives from interested parties can observe the actual ballot printing.

This is a plea to Commissioner Casquejo.

Failure to open up the election preparations, specifically that of the ballot printing and SD card uploading, can give rise to serious doubts on the credibility of the election results which has been an issue since the first automated polls in 2010.

Back then, there were issues of preshaded ballots and pre-programmed SD cards favoring particular candidates.

Candidates protesting identical results per precinct were prevalent then. Thus, maybe the decision to allow observation of the uploading of the contents in the SD cards in 2016.

So, what gives? Why is the Comelec, particularly Casquejo, refusing the interested parties in the coming polls from observing the preparation of the election paraphernalia? While we are not saying this could be a portent to possible cheating, much more in this era when people have been so much involved in politics courtesy of the social media that they simply cannot allow anyone to deprive them of their right to be led by their rightful chosen candidate, we believe that transparency in everything concerning the coming polls would pave the way for a smooth transition for whoever is proclaimed winner.

Whatever the results would be, would be easier, if not totally digestible than that of a preparation conducted in total darkness, where everyone is as blind as a bat.

The preparatory stage for the elections has just started. Maybe Casquejo can do his part to ensure a peaceful and credible elections by batting for transparency. And he could start by allowing representatives from all interested parties, including those from the media, to observe their preparations for the coming polls.

In December, he survived an attempt at impeachment, but earlier this month a farright party announced it would file a new motion to remove him.

Prosecutors are also investigating him and his associates in three separate graft cases.

The problem is that he has taken off the hat but not the ideas that were beneath it, analysts say.

Amidst the political turmoil, Castillo appears to have decided that the iconic headwear that contributed to his humble man-of-the-people image has got to go.

‘Kidnapped’ The hat was a prominent feature on the campaign trail, although it turned Castillo into the butt of jokes by his opponents and some sections of the press.

He was said to only ever remove it when entering church, and was even pictured wearing it at breakfast on election day last June, alongside his likewise sombrero-clad parents.

He wore it in cabinet meetings, in talks with foreign dignitaries and even at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Peruvians saw their new president without his sombrero for the first time on Tuesday when swearing in his new cabi-

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EDITORIAL

Peruvian president ditches iconic ‘sombrero,’rebrands

By Luis Jaime Cisneros

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2022

Tourism booster

T

HE Philippines is finally opening up to foreign tourists after imposing a two-year ban on travelers. The move is a shot in the arm that the sector, and the whole economy for that matter, badly needs.

Beginning Feb. 10, foreign travelers from 157 countries with visa-free arrangements with the Philippines, and who have been fully vaccinated and tested negative for the virus, are free to travel to this Southeast Asian nation, without quarantine requirement upon arrival.

The easing of the travel ban sends a message to foreign tourists—the Philippines has contained the virus’ spread and it is safe to visit domestic destinations given the declining daily COVID-19 cases in the country and the wide vaccination coverage of local workers in the sector.

The Philippines was ready to welcome foreign tourists starting Dec. 1

last year but the government had to scrap the plan as the more virulent Omicron variant of the virus began to spread outside of the country.

The sector directly creates jobs.

Tourism Secretary Berna RomuloPuyat, however, is more confident this time around. The country’s tourism force is nearly fully vaccinated.

Over 92 percent of the nation’s 349, 534 tourism workers have received their jabs, while some tourist des-

tinations like Baguio City, Coron and El Nido have a 100-percent vaccination rate among their workers.

The tourism sector is one of the hardest-hit economic sectors in the Philippines when the pandemic started in early 2019. The foreign travel ban brought domestic airlines, hotels and other tourist establishments to their knees. Millions lost their jobs as the travel business virtually shut down. Communities hosting famous beach and island resorts lost their livelihood, exacerbating unemployment and poverty in the countryside.

But the return of foreign travelers will certainly have a positive impact on the economy. Tourism directly creates jobs—from increased local airline crew and hotel and resort staff to business opportunities in travel destinations. More importantly, the revival of the tourism business signals the return to normal, which every nation is trying to achieve.

An abominable crime against humanity fore harmless and is easy money. They even impose an obligation to their children to help raise income for the family. They believe that this is strictly a family affair and that no one, not even the government should interfere.

THERE is a growing scourge in the dark side of the internet that is damaging the lives of Filipino children. The online technologies that have proven to be a lifesaver in this pandemic are being exploited by cyber-pimps that now have a global network of pedophiles to peddle their evil business, creating yet another dimension of this crisis.

According to a 2018 report by the United States National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, there were 579,006 cyber tips received by the Department of Justice Office of Cybercrime “for the online sharing, re-sharing, and selling of child sexual abuse images and videos” in the Philippines.

When the lockdowns were enforced in 2020, these figures increased by 260 percent from 418,422 cyber tips in 2019, making the Philippines a center of child sex abuse and production of lascivious content in the world.

This is the crisis of Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) which was the center of concern during the webinar commemorating the annual Safer Internet Day hosted by Globe in partnership with UNICEF Philippines, Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), CitizenWatch, and Bantay Konsyumer, Kalsada, Kuryente (BK3).

In a statement delivered during the online event, consumer advocacy group CitizenWatch Philippines co-convenor Atty. Tim Abejo lamented that in the Philippines, OSAEC is a family-based crime that has persisted for many years.

He pointed out that parents who are using their own children have a twisted view that this is not a crime because there is no physical contact and therenet, before subsequent hatless appearances on Wednesday and Thursday.

He had briefly been deprived of it last week when meeting Brazil’s far-right president, Jair Bolsonaro, who stole it off his head while laughing and posing for pictures.

“Help me, Bolsonaro’s kidnapped me,” joked Castillo.

However, Castillo has not always been so attached to his sombrero.

He did not wear it when he first came to national prominence in 2017 as the leader of a striking teachers union.

Guido Bellido, a politician from Castillo’s ruling Peru Libre (Free Peru) party, claimed last year that he was the one to suggest the hat would make a good political identity.

On the campaign trail, Castillo traveled to every corner of Peru wearing his hat

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

We must all do our part to save our children.

When the government reacts, it imposes regulatory policies that at best will have a temporary effect on the tech-savvy perpetrators of OSAEC who can quickly dodge detection in cyberspace. The convergence of broadband connectivity, online platforms, messaging apps, and e-payment facilities have become a convenient and very efficient playground for the proliferation of OSAEC. Atty. Abejo pointed out conflicting provisions between the Anti-Child Pornography and the Data Privacy Act and suggested the need for a clear empowerment of ISPs to see the content that their subscribers are uploading or accessing so that instigators of childpornography, terrorism, disinformation, and piracy, can be detected for immediate action. However, this means allowing ISPs to monitor a user’s online activities to the extent of violating one’s privacy.

Some of these gaps that policy leaders should act on are: Provisions in the Anti-Wiretapping Act where evidence on OSAEC violations secured through wiretapping is deemed inadmissible; the prohibition in the Data Privacy Act on the release of personal information of OSAEC violators by personal data controllers (ex: Internet Service Providers and Social Media platforms) thereby hampering OSAEC investigations; and the Cybercrime Prevention Act where real-time collection of traffic data has been declared unconstitutional and even sometimes riding on horseback.

He took part in election debates clad in his white hat, and so the legend was born.

Luxury item Castillo’s tall wide-brimmed straw hat is typical of those worn by peasants in his home region of Cajamarca, in northern Peru.

Worn by both men and women -- although it is less popular amongst younger generations -- it is known as a “bambamarquino” or “chotano” after the rural area of Chota in Cajamarca.

Each hat is handmade and it takes between three weeks and two months to complete.

Although intrinsically linked to humble peasants, the chotanos have recently become a luxury item, selling for as much as 4,000 soles ($1,000). AFP

Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Treasury Manager Head—Ad Solutions Circulation Manager

hence prohibiting ISPs from sharing OSAEC related traffic data to law enforcement.

To rectify these conflicting laws, CitizenWatch Philippines recommends that to strengthen execution, “government regulators, ISPs, law enforcement, and legislators should establish an integrated framework for responding to OSAEC-related cases.” Furthermore, a clear-cut government center where violations will be reported should be established.

BK3 convenor Prof. Louie Montemar for his part urged the government to collaborate with the private sector and civil society in educating and empowering Filipinos to protect themselves online, and to set in motion an optimal strategy to address the OSAEC problem. The group called on the private sector to educate the stakeholders of their industries on digital citizenship, online safety, and the responsible use of technology.

According to The National Study on Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children in the Philippines, a joint project of UNICEF and the Department of Social Welfare and Development, poverty is the primary motivation for children and families to get into this situation.

“Older children are promised education or money by foreigners who want their sexual pictures or videos. Younger children are lured into perpetrators’ homes with candies and chocolates.”

“Perpetrators” build trust by “grooming” the targeted children by fostering friendship and nurturing a relationship online then paying for videos or pictures of children which are then sold on the internet. “Facilitators” are usually the parents or relatives who either force or convince to perform sexual acts in front of the web camera and collect payment. Victims as young as 3 months old have been reported.

Fighting OSAEC requires a globally dynamic collaboration unhindered by jurisdiction and legal limitations that are actually playing to the advantage of perpetrators who hold no reverence to the rule of law in their amoral exploits. We must all do our part to save our children from this abominable crime against humanity.

Mr. Acidre is on leave beginning today until the end of the campaign period.

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher Ramonchito L. Tomeldan Chin Wong/Ray S. Eñano Joyce Pangco Pañares

Managing Editor Associate Editors News Editor

Jimbo Owen Gulle City Editor Honor Blanco Cabie Night Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2022 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

US LEADER WARNS PUTIN

‘Severe costs’ with Ukraine attack—Biden W

ASHINGTON -- Efforts to defuse the crisis in Ukraine via a frenzy of telephone diplomacy failed to ease tensions Saturday, with US President Joe Biden warning that Russia faces “swift and severe costs” if its troops carry out an invasion.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin slammed Western claims that Moscow was planning such a move as “provocative speculation” that could lead to conflict in the ex-Soviet country, according to a Russian readout of a call with French President Emmanuel Macron.

Speaking after new phone talks between Putin and Biden, the Kremlin’s top foreign policy advisor Yury Ushakov told a conference call: “Hysteria has reached its peak.”

Weeks of tensions that have seen Russia nearly surround its western neighbor with more than 100,000 troops intensified after Washington warned that an all-out invasion could begin “any day” and Russia launched its biggest naval drills in years across the Black Sea. “If Russia undertakes a further invasion of Ukraine, the United States together with our allies and partners will respond decisively and impose swift Manila andard and severe costs on Russia,” Biden told TODAY Putin, according to the White House.

While the United States was prepared to engage in diplomacy, “we are EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT of ESTATE equally prepared with ABSOLUTE of SALE for other scenarNotice is hereby given that the estate of the late ios,” Biden said, MAIDA S. MONTEIRO has been adjudicated unto her as the two nations sole heir WITH ABSOLUTE stare down one of SALE consisting of: the gravest crises • TCT No. 0602010004552 – Brgy. in East-West reSto. Domingo Bay, Laguna. lations since the • As per Doc. No. 218; Page Cold War. No. 44; Book No. CXXX; While the Series of 2022 before Notary Public ATTY. JULIE Biden-Putin talks O. CUA. were “profession-

al and substantive,” lasting just over an hour, they produced “no fundamental change” in dynamics, a senior US official told reporters.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated a US warning that Russia could stage a “false flag” incident to invade.

“No one should be surprised if Russia instigates a provocation or incident, which it then uses to justify military action it had planned all along,” said Blinken, who spoke with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov on Saturday.

Russia’s defense ministry added to the febrile atmosphere by announcing that it had chased off a US submarine it said had crossed into its territorial waters near the Kuril Islands in the northern Pacific.

But the US Indo-Pacific Command denied it had been operating in Russian territorial waters.

Putin began his afternoon holding talks with Macron that lasted almost two hours.

Macron’s office said “both expressed a desire to continue dialogue” but, like Washington, reported no clear progress.

- ‘Possible provocations’ Russia added to the ominous tone by pulling some of its diplomatic staff out of Ukraine Saturday, with the foreign ministry saying its decision was prompted by fears of “possible provocations from the Kyiv regime.”

But Washington and a host of European countries along with Israel cited the growing threat of a Russian invasion as they called on their citizens to leave Ukraine as soon possible. AFP

PROTEST PROMISE. Demonstrators shout slogans as they march behind a banner which reads “Ukrainians will resist” in the colors of the national flag during a rally in Kyiv on February 12, held to show unity amid US warnings of an imminent Russian invasion. AFP

Afghan assets split between aid, US 9/11 victims WASHINGTON—US President Joe Biden seized $7 billion in assets belonging to the previous Afghan government Friday, aiming to split the funds between victims of the 9/11 attacks and desperately needed aid for post-war Afghanistan.

The move drew an angry response from the country’s new leaders the Taliban, which branded the seizure a “theft” and a sign of US “moral decay.”

Biden’s unusual action saw the conflicting, highly sensitive issues of a humanitarian tragedy in Afghanistan, the fundamentalist Taliban fight for recognition, and the push for justice from families impacted by the September 11, 2001 attacks collide, with billions of dollars at stake.

The first stage was simple: Biden formally blocked the assets in an executive order signed Friday.

The money—which a US official said largely stems from foreign assistance once sent to help the now defunct Western-backed Afghan government —had been stuck in the New York Fed-

US, Japan, South Korea ministers call NKorea missile launches ‘provocation’

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION OFFICE OF THE CLERK OF COURT & EX-OFFICIO SHERIFF MANDALUYONG CITY BANK OF COMMERCE, Mortgagee, -versus-

FRE-MC22-1353 EXTRA-JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE OF REAL ESTATE MORTGAGE UNDER ACT 3135 AS AMENDED BY 4118

MA. CYRELLE JED S. REGLOS Represented by her Attorney-In-Fact, CELSO L. REGLOS, Debtor/s/Mortgagor/s. x----------------------------------------------------x

NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE Upon Extra-Judicial petition for sale under Act 3135 as amended

by Act 4118 filed by BANK OF COMMERCE, Mortgagee, MA. CYRELLE JED S. REGLOS, represented by her Attorney-In-Fact, CELSO L. REGLOS, Debtor/s/Mortgagor/s with postal address at (1) Acqua Private Residences, Iguazu Tower, Unit IGZ 2701, 27th Floor, Brgy. Hulo, Mandaluyong City (2) B10 L23 Saint Mary St., Addas II-A Molino, Bacoor, Cavite, to satisfy the mortgaged indebtedness which as of December 15, 2021 amounts to FIVE MILLION SIX HUNDRED SIXTY NINE THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED FIFTY PESOS & 39/100 (Php 5,669,150.39) ONLY Philippine Currency, inclusive of interest, penalty and other charges, the Ex-Officio Sheriff of Mandaluyong City or his duly authorized deputy will sell at PUBLIC AUCTION to the HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH OR MANAGERS CHECK and in Philippine Currency on March 10, 2022 at 9:00 A.M. or soon thereafter in front of the main entrance of the Hall of Justice Building, Maysilo Circle, Mandaluyong City, the following Condominium unit with all the improvements existing thereon to wit: CONDOMINIUM CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. -008-2020004524Registry of Deeds – City of Mandaluyong FLOOR LEVEL UNIT NO. UNIT TYPE UNIT AREA

: 27TH FLOOR : IGZ2701 : 1BR : 42.12

OF “ACQUA PRIVATE RESIDENCES” CONDOMINIUM PROJECT In the diagrammatic floor plan appended to the enabling or master deed of the condominium project annotated on TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE 2011001018 which embraces and describes the land located at MANDALUYONG CITY with an area of ONE THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED THIRTYFIVE (1,635) Square Meter more or less xxxxx.

“All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above stated time and date.”

“In the event the public auction should not take place on said date, it shall be held on March 17, 2022 9:00 A.M. or soon thereafter without further notice,” Prospective bidders or buyer are hereby enjoined to investigate for themselves the title of the said real property and the encumbrances thereon, if any there be.

Mandaluyong City, Philippines, February 9, 2022.

FOR THE EX-OFFICIO SHERIFF BY:

Copy furnished:

(Sgd.) RAMON D. PATERNO Sheriff IV

BANK OF COMMERCE Atty. Giovanni V. Gallego GALLEGO & VILLAMOR LAW OFFICES Suite 15, 2nd Floor, Facilities Centre Bldg., 548 Shaw Blvd., Highway Hills Mandaluyong 1552 MA. CYRELLE JED S. REGLOS, Represented by her Attorney-In-Fact, CELSO L. REGLOS (1) Acqua Private Residences, Iguazu Tower, Unit IGZ2701, 27th Floor, Brgy. Hulo, Mandaluyong City (2) B10 L23 Saint Mary St., Addas II-A Molino, Bacoor, Cavite WARNING: It is absolutely prohibited to remove, deface or destroy this Notice of Sheriffs Sale on or before the date of Auction Sale under penalty of the law.

(MStandard - Feb. 14, 21 & 28, 2022)

eral Reserve ever since last year’s Tali- donated since mid-August last ban victory. year, the official said. The money is The insurgency, which fought US- distributed among non-governmental led forces for 20 years and now con- organizations. trols the whole country, has not been The Taliban fumed over Washingrecognized by Washington or any ton’s move.

Western countries, mostly over its hu“The theft and seizure of money man rights record. held/frozen by the United States of the However, with appalling poverty Afghan people represents the lowest gripping Afghanistan, Washington is level of human and moral decay CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK seeking ways to assist, while side-step- of a country and a nation,” Taliban ping the Taliban. spokesman Mohammad Naeem said on The White House said Biden will Twitter. seek to funnel $3.5 billion of the frozen Failure and victory are common funds into a humanitarian aid trust “for throughout history, “but the greatthe benefit of the Afghan people and est and most shameful defeat is when for Afghanistan’s future.” moral defeat combines with military The trust fund will manage the aid defeat,” Naeem added. in a way that bypasses Taliban authori- 9/11 victims seek compensation ties, a senior US official told reporters, The fate of the other $3.5 billion is countering likely criticism in Washing- also complex. ton that Biden’s administration is inadFamilies of people killed or injured vertently boosting its former enemy. in the 9/11 attacks on New York, the Aside from the new plan, “the United Pentagon and a fourth hijacked airliner States remains the single largest donor that crashed in Pennsylvania have long of humanitarian aid in Afghanistan,” struggled to find ways to extract comthe senior official said. pensation from Al-Qaeda and others More than $516 million has been responsible. AFP

AIR MANEUVER. Republic of Singapore Air Force AH-64D Apache attack helicopters perform during a preview of the Singapore Airshow in Singapore on February 13. AFP

HONOLULU -- The top diplomats of Japan, South Korea and the United States declared their unity against North Korea on Saturday after a series of ballistic missile launches by Pyongyang.

After a day of meetings in Honolulu, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, South Korean Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong, and Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa condemned the series of seven launches as “destabilizing” in a joint statement.

Pyongyang needs “to cease its unlawful activities and instead engage in dialogue,” they said.

“The DPRK is in a phase of provocation,” Blinken told a press conference alongside his fellow foreign ministers, using the acronym for the Democratic

People’s Republic of Korea.

“We continue to work to find ways to hold the DPRK accountable,” he said, citing the most recent sanctions slapped on eight people and entities tied to the North Korean government.

The three diplomats reiterated their commitment to the denuclearization of the entire Korean Peninsula, and readiness to resume talks with Pyongyang, which has not responded to overtures from the administration of US President Joe Biden in the past year.

“The Secretary and Foreign Ministers emphasized they held no hostile intent towards the DPRK and underscored continued openness to meeting the DPRK without preconditions,” they said in the statement.

Cyclone, Manilow songs fail to dislodge New Zealand anti-vax protesters WELLINGTON—Cyclone Dovi caused power outages, mudslides, and evacuations across New Zealand on Sunday, but neither the storm nor the music of Barry Manilow could dislodge anti-vaccine protesters camped outside parliament.

Instead, hundreds of protesters— inspired by the “Freedom Convoy” of truckers in Canada—danced in the mud to the tunes meant to force their dispersal.

Not even a tongue-in-cheek offer of help from singer James Blunt could end the stand-off in the capital

Wellington, which entered a sixth day with no sign of ending.

Deputy Prime Minister Grant Robertson told Television New Zealand there was a “sad element” to the protest.

“Every New Zealander has a right to peaceful protest, the problem is they have gone well beyond that,” he said.

“I do find the rhetoric of these protests highly disturbing ... there is a sad element to it, there is a conspiracy theory element that people have been sucked in by.”

Like the Canadian truckers in Ottawa, the New Zealand protesters object to the strict Covid-19 restrictions imposed on the country and are demanding an end to vaccine mandates.

Their resolve hardened after police moved in Thursday and arrested 122 people in an attempt to end the sit-in.

Police have since backed off making arrests, and authorities have attempted to drench the makeshift settlement into submission by turning on water sprinklers.

This only saw the manicured lawns

in front of the parliamentary buildings churned into a muddy morass even before Cyclone Dovi hit.

Superintendent Scott Fraser said police were continuing “to explore options to resolve the disruption”, while parliamentary Speaker Trevor Mallard had the music of Barry Manilow, the 1990s pop song “Macarena”, and government Covid-19 messages blasted at the protesters.

British singer James Blunt weighed in on the strategy on Twitter, telling NZ Police “give me a shout if this doesn’t work”. AFP

Swiss vote on tobacco ads, animal tests GENEVA—The Swiss head to the polls Sunday to decide whether to ban almost all advertising of tobacco products and separately on a blanket ban on all animal testing.

In-person voting on those and other topics will begin at 10:00 am (0900 GMT) as part of Switzerland’s direct democracy system, although most people vote in advance by post.

Recent polls indicate that the initiative to tighten Switzerland’s notoriously lax tobacco laws by banning all advertising of the health-hazardous products wherever minors might see it—effectively all settings—is the most likely to pass.

Switzerland lags far behind most wealthy nations in restricting tobacco advertising—a situation widely blamed on hefty lobbying by some of the world’s biggest tobacco companies headquartered in the country.

Currently, most tobacco advertising remains legal at a national level, except on television and radio, or ads that specifically target minors.

Some Swiss cantons have introduced stricter regional legislation and a new national law is pending, but campaigners gathered enough signatures to spur a vote towards a significantly tighter country-wide law. AFP

TRUCK BLOCK. A general view shows trucks during a protest by truck drivers over pandemic health rules and the Trudeau government, outside the parliament of Canada in Ottawa on February 12. AFP

Business

B3

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2022 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

Market monitoring Russia-Ukraine tiff

By Jenniffer B. Austria

S

HARE prices are expected trade sideways this week with a downward bias due to the deepening crisis between Russia and Ukraine.

The US government over the weekend warned Russia could invade Ukraine in days because of the massive movements of the Russian military near the Ukrainian border.

Oil prices in the world market as a result spiked to an eight-year high.

Investors are also monitoring the February 17 meeting of the local Monetary Board to look for clues on future interest rate decisions. Analysts are already expecting the US Federal Reserve to implement a rate hike by early March.

“Despite reassurances that tightening would not come until much later in the cycle, there will be increased pressure on this end, particularly amid the onset of summer season coinciding with elections,” online brokerage firm 2TradeAsia.com said.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index last week dropped 2.5 percent to 7,250 on worries of the US rate hike. The in-

dex hit a high a 12-month high of 7,552 last week week but failed to sustained the momentun due to sell-offs.

“The week’s close at 7,270.36 highlights strong resistance exists at the 7,500 level,” BDO Unibank Inc. chief investment strategist Jonathan Ravelas said.

“With the market’s failure to stay about the 7,500 level, we are bound to consolidate anew within the 7000 to 7,350 level,” he added.

Four of the six sectoral indices ended in the red, namely holding firms (-5.4 percent), services (-2.7 percent), industrial (-2.2 percent) and financials (-1.2 percent).

But the mining and oil index rose by

PSEi Febraury 11, 2021

3.8 percent while property climbed 2.1 percent.

Foreign investors were net buyers for the week by P5.7 billion, while the value turnover improved increased 51 percent to P11.6 billion.

Weekly top gainers were Monde Nissin Corp, which advanced 13.1 percent to P18.16; 8990 Holdings Inc., which climbed 9.7 percent to P12.98; and ABS-CBN Corp., which rose 7.3 percent to P13.58.

Weekly top price losers were Globe Telecom Inc., which declined 15.4 percent to P2,690; Wilcon Depot Inc., which dropped 8.9 percent to P26.50; and JG Summit Holdings Corp., which fell 7.5 percent to P57.10. With AFP

TOP GAINERS

Oil majors face backlash amid massive profits PARIS, France—Soaring energy prices have brought massive profits to oil majors—along with fierce criticism from environmentalists and politicians at a time when consumers are left with rising bills.

US firm ExxonMobil, France’s TotalEnergies, and UK giants Shell and BP announced in the past week 2021 profits totaling a whopping $66.7 billion.

It marked a huge turnaround from 2020, when they posted losses as the pandemic emerged, prompting lockdowns that brought the world economy to a grinding halt and caused crude prices to collapse.

But oil and gas prices rallied big time last year, surging to $70 per barrel after briefly sinking into negative territory in 2020.

The main international and US contracts rose to seven-year highs in January and now sit at around $90.

Gas prices, meanwhile, hit records in Europe.

“Oil companies benefited from an extraordinary alignment of the planets,” said Moez Ajmi, oil industry expert at EY consultancy.

In addition to higher energy prices, energy firms “cleaned up” their assets to only keep the most profitable ones, Ajmi said.

The companies also strengthened their cost-cutting policies which started in a previous price slump in 2014.

A gradual increase in output by OPEC and its allies has also helped.

ExxonMobil went from a $22.4 billion loss in 2020 to a $23 billion profit in 2021.

Shell was $20.1 billion in the green last year after a $21.7-billion loss in 2020.

TotalEnergies went from a historic $7.2 billion loss to a 15-year high profit of $16 billion. AFP

LAST % PRICE CHANGE CHANGE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

0.94 18.16 50 0.162 1.14 1.97 0.92 0.74 6.14 6.11

PHR MONDE CAB MG SSP GREEN VUL ATNB AB DITO

0.14 1.96 3.2 0.01 0.07 0.12 0.05 0.04 0.32 0.25

17.50% 12.10% 6.84% 6.58% 6.54% 6.49% 5.75% 5.71% 5.50% 4.27%

TOP LOSERS

People drink raki, Turkish traditional alcohol, at Karakoy port, on February 10, 2022. In this once buzzing Istanbul neighborhood with popular cafes and pubs, there are now only empty tables after nearly 50 percent tax hikes on alcohol. Fitch Ratings has downgraded Turkey’s debt from BB- to B+ with a negative outlook, citing high inflation and a lack of confidence in policymakers to turn the tide. AFP

Citing high inflation, Fitch downgrades Turkey to ‘B+’ WASHINGTON, United States—Fitch Ratings on Friday downgraded Turkey’s debt from BB- to B+ with a negative outlook, citing high inflation and a lack of confidence in policymakers to turn the tide.

The downgrade comes after data released earlier in the month showed inflation hitting a two-decade record of nearly 50 percent in January, though some economists estimate it is much higher than that.

“Policy-driven financial stress episodes of higher frequency and intensity have increased Turkey’s vulnerabilities in terms of high inflation, low external liquidity and weak policy credibility,” Fitch said in announcing its decision.

The agency added that it “does not expect the authorities’ policy response”

Greek islanders suffering turbine ‘torture’ as wind farms proliferate A photograph shows a wind turbine above the village of Petries, near Agii Apostoli, on February 3, 2022. The wind turbines rise as far as the eye can see on the hills surrounding the seaside village of Agii Apostoli on the Greek island of Evia, a real ‘torture’ for the eyes and ears of local residents revolted by the ‘enormous damage’ that their region is suffering. AFP

AGII APOSTOLI, Greece—Until a few years ago, Agii Apostoli was a picturesque seaside village on the eastern coast of Evia, drawing a modest income from tourism and fishing.

Now it is ringed by towering wind turbines whose night lights and whirring sounds are tantamount to daily “torture,” locals say.

“Longterm visitors ask us, why did you allow this crime to take place?” laments Stamatoula Karava, a local employee involved in a local cultural association.

With their aviation lights flashing through the night in the surrounding hills, the turbines “have completely ruined the view,” she says.

Evia, 80 kilometers (50 miles) east of Athens and Greece’s second largest island after Crete, was among the first of the country’s regions to host wind farms some two decades ago.

But they have since mushroomed, mainly in the more sparsely populated south of the island, environment groups say.

The municipality of Karystos alone, with an area of 672 square kilometers, has more than 400 turbines, some of them along the area’s main road.

The oldest ones have now fallen into disuse, yet there are no plans to remove them and recycle their parts, says Chrys-

soula Bereti, who chairs the Karystos anti-wind farm front.

“It’s a scandal,” she fumes.

In line with EU clean energy targets, Greece has reduced its once-overwhelming reliance on lignite for electricity production to around 10 percent currently.

Forty percent of Greek power plants are now gas-fired and 30 percent run on renewable resources, of which 18 percent are wind turbines.

Hydroelectric plants and imports account for the remainder.

According to the Regulatory Authority for Energy (RAE), Greece’s power production watchdog, the maximum capacity of wind turbines in the country increased more than sixfold between 2019 and 2021 to 8,205 MW. With its propensity for high winds, Evia is a natural location for wind farms, notes RAE chairman Athanasios Dagoumas.

But critics say that this expansion has gone too far.

“Wind turbines have been installed on mountain peaks, in forests, near archaeological sites, on islands, in protected habitats... it’s as if energy production is the only possible activity in this country,” says Dimitris Soufleris, a lawyer and spokesman of the environmental association of the Evia town of Kymi. AFP

to “sustainably ease macroeconomic and financial stability risks.”

Although inflation is rising across the world, thanks in part to easy money policies adopted to cushion the blow of the COVID-19 pandemic, Turkey’s problems are dramatically more acute because of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s unorthodox economic approach.

Erdogan rejects the idea that inflation should be fought by hiking the main interest rate, which he believes causes prices to grow even higher—the exact opposition of conventional economic thinking.

The price spike complicates the president’s path to re-election in 2023, and Fitch warned there was a “high” risk of “additional destabilizing monetary policy easing or stimulus policies” ahead of

the polls.

“There is an elevated degree of uncertainty about the authorities’ policy reaction function in the event of another episode of financial stress, as political considerations limit the central bank’s ability to raise its policy rate,” Fitch added.

The government hopes inflation will fall after pressures—including a minimum wage hike in January and rising energy bills—subside and new currency support measures kick in.

The central bank paused a four-month streak of interest rate cuts in January, providing relief for the lira, which has held largely steady this year.

Fitch’s decision comes after S&P Global Ratings in December downgraded its outlook for Turkey’s debt to negative from stable. AFP

LAST % PRICE CHANGE CHANGE

1 2

ACEX PHA

29.05 0.61

-3.35 -0.06

-10.34% -8.96%

3

SOC

0.58

-0.04

-6.45%

4 5

EMP LODE

22.5 0.61

-1.5 -0.04

-6.25% -6.15%

6 7

ICT FCG

206 0.81

-13 -0.05

-5.94% -5.81%

8 9

RLC MWIDE

18 5.3

-1 -0.28

-5.26% -5.02%

10

IMI

9.28

-0.46

-4.72%

MOST ACTIVE

VOLUME

VALUE (PHP)

1 2 3

MONDE EMP RRHI

283,141,700 5,026,030,088 116,831,500 2,654,784,255 24,874,870 1,426,454,182

4

GLO

433,895

5 6 7

SMPH BLOOM ICT

30,258,100 1,121,849,500 161,694,200 954,183,095 4,431,350 932,286,922

8

SM

853,080

786,842,095

9

CNVRG

25,564,600

735,531,920

10

BPI

6,888,020

683,881,617

1,183,494,670

My recipe for a continuing road to financial stability I MET my wife, Hilda, when I was in my early twenties. She was happy-golucky, even some would consider her to be spoiled. Because I saw her that way, I had this inkling that we would have a hard time agreeing on finances if we ended up being together as a couple.

However, marrying her was a different story. Even at a young age (we were both 27 at the time), we were very mature when understanding the value of our hard-earned money. With her prodding and support, we could secure a house in the south, near our places of work. At 33, we were already fully paid with our house and are now working on our second mortgage.

Our ingredients All of what we’ve accomplished so far resulted from plans and lessons learned during this ongoing journey.

Here are some of the many ways that enabled us to jump through the hurdles of our finances in our 30s and will undoubtedly serve as our guide for the road ahead.

Save on high gain Early on, I tried to convince my wife to start saving money thru savings cooperative for military personnel and their dependents because, unlike commercial banks, dividends plus interest rates can reach around 8 percent on average per annum. Now, our initial investment has more than doubled.

No credit card rule I’m not saying having one is bad, but it worked for us because we did not have the temptation to spend when we had none. Or you can look at it differently, like use it only when you need it and not for your wants. And if you need one, make sure you pay up on time.

Be free from bondage Nowadays, owning your own house

and having a car is essential, but it would mean getting loans if you don’t have the funds to pay in full.

For our case, we tried to pay up our house and car mortgages as soon as possible by using savings mostly from yearly bonuses. We’ve paid these debts in the middle of their respective terms instead of enduring the whole duration of the plan. Doing so was always a relief!

That feeling of being free from financial obligations. Shackles off!

Secure your savings We knew we needed to be prepared for the unexpected, so we availed of health and disability insurance, which would allow us to have a buffer to protect our savings in cases of emergencies. And for good measure, we picked an investment-linked type of insurance that would also provide us with a secondary source retirement fund in the future.

Educate yourself Several avenues are available for us to grow our savings or generate funds.

During the first few years of my career in the semiconductor industry, I failed to recognize the importance of employee stock options that were part of my benefit. That was one of my regrets because I stayed hesitant about the unknown instead of understanding it.

The same can be said about our investment-linked insurance because our decision was quite late, limiting our opportunity to gain more on our portfolio.

Looking back, I now believe that doing nothing was worse than failing.

Spend your extras Our friends know us to be a couple that loves to travel, and it hasn’t changed a bit. We also frequently go on quick getaways and food trips when-

LARRY BIOCARLES

Green Light ever there are gaps in our busy schedules since we work in a fast-paced and demanding manufacturing setting. We sustain our travel-seeking urge by saving as much as we can to have enough funds on top of our planned savings, which we call the extras, which are the primary source for all our wants.

What it takes More than the recipe, if there is one thing that was very instrumental on our road to financial security, I’d say it is discipline. We had plans, and we stuck with them. We have never stopped saving up to now. If there were doubts, we tried to understand the risks and gains beforehand. Doing so gives us the confidence to decide on any venture.

My wife and I believe that it is never too late to start saving both for the sunny and rainy days of our lives. Our ingredients may not work for everyone because fiscal approaches can be affected by several aspects of living, and the routes to economic stability can also be fluid. But there is no denying, Now is always the best time to be financially literate.

The author is an MBA student at the Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business, DLSU. He can be reached at larry_biocarles@dlsu.edu.ph The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.

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

B4

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2022

IN BRIEF

Aboitiz Power eyes 600-MW renewables

ABOITIZ Power Corp. plans to construct 600 megawatts of renewable energy projects this year as part of its expansion program, a top executive said over the weekend.

“We are bullish about the accelerated growth of renewable energy in the Philippines. Aboitiz Power is well positioned to support this growth through our pipeline of RE projects,” Aboitiz Power president Emmanuel Rubio said.

“This year, we are set to begin the construction of 600 MW of RE projects,” he said.

Aboitiz Power’s 10-year growth strategy aims to contribute to a more reliable, costefficient and sustainable power system for the country.

The company, with a projected investment of around P190 billion, the company is looking to grow its RE capacity to 4,600 MW, which will make up 50 percent of its total generation portfolio of 9,200 MW by 2030.

It plans to develop more solar and wind power plants in Pangasinan, such as the 167-megawatt peak Laoag solar project in Aguilar. Alena Mae S. Flores

Beep card firm taps PayMaya

Business Debt to stabilize as pandemic spending winds down—DOF

By Julito G. Rada

T

HE Department of Finance said over the weekend it expects the country’s debt-toGDP ratio to stabilize as pandemic-related spending winds down.

It said in an economic bulletin the national government debt stock slightly eased to P11.729 trillion in the fourth quarter from P11.917 trillion in the third quarter.

The DOF said the debt metric, in terms of the percentage of the gross domestic product, improved from 63.1 percent in the third quarter to 60.5 percent in the fourth quarter. It said this level was “still sustainable for an emerging economy.”

“The recent build-up of debt was

AF PAYMENTS Inc. tapped PayMaya Philippines Inc. to power its newly-launched beep app with online payments.

The tie-up between AF Payments and PayMaya allows beep card users to reload their card via the new beep app using their PayMaya account, any debit, credit, prepaid card or via other e-wallets.

“This project is another testament to AFPI’s commitment to work with PayMaya in giving commuters a pleasant and safe commuting experience through a reliable and convenient cashless payment service,” said Jonathan Juan Moreno, president of AF Payments.

He said with this thrust, commuters can stay safer and avoid long lines when riding the LRT and MRT and select bus lines.

Motorists can also conveniently top up their beep cards ahead for use in NLEX and CAVITEX tollways. “We all deserve a better commuting experience, and one way to improve it is through fintech. Through, PayMaya’s enterprise solutions, we have expanded the payment options available to beep app users,” said PayMaya president Shailesh Baidwan. Darwin G. Amojelar

tures rising more slowly than GDP but that infrastructure spending is not sacrificed. Furthermore, structural measures, such as reforming the pension system of the military and uniformed personnel will prevent the further build-up of pressure around fiscal fault lines,” it said.

The fiscal impact of the current MUP pension system is about P114 billion annually, according to the 2021 Fiscal Risk Statement.

“Resuming pre-pandemic economic growth rate calls for learning to live with the virus and fast-tracking the recovery.

We already have an ongoing infrastructure program and have cut corporate income taxes. Passing the amendments to the Public Service Act and the Foreign Investments Act, together with the recently amended Retail Trade Liberalization Act, will have added a potent ingredient to the economic recovery cocktail that can deliver a big shot in the arm of the Philippine economy,” the DOF said.

FPH DONATION. Residents of Bindoy town in Negros Oriental wait for their turn to be vaccinated during the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines that the Lopez Group reallocated for the benefit of the local government unit. Since last year, the Lopez Group has allocated over 180,000 doses of vaccines for LGUs and other organizations as part of its efforts to help the government control the spread of the pandemic.

Plastic firms push separate EPR law THE Philippine Plastics Industry Association is pushing for a separate law on the Extended Producers’ Responsibility, instead of integrating it in Republic Act No. 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

“While RA 9003 is a good law, it has not yet tapped into its full potential, primarily due to a lack of funding,” said PPIA president Danny Ngo. He said the EPR is an important policy tool to help meet national targets for the recovery of post-consumer waste for recycling. He said integrating this new and to-be-tested policy with the comprehensive and more than twenty-year-old RA 9003 may be premature as the latter is still being fine-tuned to address its lapses.

PPIA members said a separate EPR measure would be a more plausible option as it is patterned after those of highly-industrialized economies. “Hence, its success may not be automatic or immediately felt here because the Philippines is a third-world and archipelagic country,” Ngo said.

Othel V. Campos

largely in response to pandemic-related expenses. However, the government continues to judiciously manage debt, maintaining a prudent balance between domestic and external sources of financing, with more emphasis on the former to minimize effects of external risks,” the department said.

It said the fiscal consolidation and economic recovery would be very critical in preserving fiscal stability. “The debt-GDP ratio is expected to stabilize as pandemic-related spending is wound down,” it said.

It said that in the light of the Supreme Court ruling on the Mandanas-Garcia case, the devolution of pertinent functions to local government units, as enumerated in the LGU Code of 1991, would help ease the fiscal burden of the national government.

“Note that the medium-term fiscal program shows declining trend in the deficit largely on account of expendi-

DOTR gets another P112-b Japan loan to finance subway project

By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Department of Transportation secured an additional P112.31 billion (253 billion yen) in loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency for the country’s first underground railway system.

It will continue the support for the Metro Manila Subway Project, as the first tranche amounting to 105 billion yen (P46 billion), signed in March 2018, is almost fully utilized.

The new loan was signed by DOTR under the leadership of Secretary Arthur Tugade and JICA on Feb. 10.

It brought the total JICA ODA loan to 848 billion yen (P376.6 billion) in

support of the country’s railways network, which suffered many decades of underinvestment and delayed project implementation, and which has been aggressively catching up under the Duterte administration’s “Build, Build, Build” program.

These official development assistance loans, which carry highly concessional terms of 0.10-percent interest per annum, 40-year repayment period and grace period of 12 years, were tranched to optimize financing costs.

“Japan’s equally aggressive ramping up of support is testament to its confidence in the DOTR’s strengthened implementing capacity, including its progressive ability to comply with ODA

lenders’ strict environmental, social, and governance safeguards,” the agency said.

The proposal for a subway in Metro Manila was first developed in 1973 under the Urban Transport Study in Manila Metropolitan Area. When Tugade took the helm of DOTr in July 2016, the MMSP did not have a completed feasibility study, did not have NEDA board investment approval, did not have any financing and did not have a single awarded contract.

The MMSP was approved by the NEDA board in September 2017, its first tranche loan was signed in March 2018 and its first contract was awarded in November 2018.

PSE INDEX CLOSING Friday, February 11, 2022

-162.26 PTS. 7,270.36

TOTAL VOLUME TOTAL TRADES TOTAL VALUE ADVANCES DECLINES UNCHANGED

844,791,870 116,591 9,036,785,418.62 111 78 50

F oreign E xchange R ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2022

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

51.2670

Japan

Yen

0.008621

0.4420

UK

Pound

1.355800

69.5078

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.128289

6.5770

Switzerland

Franc

1.080847

55.4118

Canada

Dollar

0.786225

40.3074

Singapore

Dollar

0.743826

38.1337

Australia

Dollar

0.716500

36.7328

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652872

136.0048

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266553

13.6654

Brunei

Dollar

0.741070

37.9924

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000070

0.0036

Thailand

Baht

0.030656

1.5716

UAE

Dirham

0.272287

13.9593

Euro

Euro

1.142800

58.5879

Korea

Won

0.000833

0.0427

China

Yuan

0.157416

8.0702

India

Rupee

0.013320

0.6829

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.239120

12.2590

New Zealand

Dollar

0.666900

34.1900

Taiwan

Dollar

0.035908

1.8409 Source: BSP

POGO tax law raises P1.22b in additional revenue—BIR THE Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations tax law generated P1.22 billion in additional revenue since its implementation in October last year, according to the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

Republic Act No. 11590, or the “Act Taxing Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations,” was signed by President Rodrigo Duterte into law in September 2021 and took effect on Oct. 9, 2021.

The law clarified the regulatory and taxation framework for POGOs and their employees.

“Despite the pandemic, from Oct. 9, 2021 to Dec. 31, 2021, the BIR has collected a total of P1.22 billion from offshore gaming licensees, their service providers and their employees,” the BIR said in a report.

Based on its computation, the BIR said it collected P709.39 million in withholding taxes between Oct. 9 and Dec. 31, while P409.93 million came from POGOs’ gaming revenues and P89.67 million from income taxes.

The bureau also raised P5.33 million in value added tax or percentage tax, P4.96 million in other taxes and P3.34 million in documentary stamp tax.

“As we already have rules and regulations in place for the POGO industry, we expect POGO operations to continue and we foresee an increase in revenues arising from said activities,” the BIR said.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III earlier said tax collections from POGOs were expected to hit P76.2 billion in 2022 to 2023.

Dominguez said that from the 5-percent tax on gross gaming revenues, the BIR would generate P35.1 billion during the two-year period, and P41.2 billion from the 25-percent withholding tax on the gross income of foreign employees.

POGOs are still in recovery mode after numerous gaming licensees and their service providers closed shop during the global health crisis.

This was evident in the thousands of square meters of office space vacated by the POGO sector. Julito G. Rada

PH and UAE plan to start negotiations on broader economic partnership deal

KFC EXPANSION.

KFC Philippines opens a branch along Quezon Ave., Cotabato City, Maguindanao—the quickservice restaurant’s first sub-franchised outlet in Mindanao through Seven Jewels Corp. KFC sees strong expansion potential in Mindanao as investors in the region are beginning to appreciate the opportunities being presented by KFC’s innovative and hassle-free sub-franchising scheme.

Seven Jewels plans to expand the KFC brand in the Soccsksargen Region, comprising of the provinces of South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani, and General Santos City, and other areas of opportunity in Mindanao.

By Othel V. Campos THE Philippines will launch negotiations on a comprehensive economic partnership agreement with the United Arab Emirates once they finalize the investment promotion and protection deal.

“We hope that together with the Ministry of Economy of the UAE, we can further strengthen the economic relationship between the UAE and the Philippines,” said Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez at the country business briefing for the Expo 2020 Dubai.

The Expo 2020 Dubai was originally planned to be staged on Oct. 20, 2020 to April 10, 2021, but was postponed to Oct. 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022 over the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lopez said the Philippines is willing to host UAE-based start-up companies that are into advanced technology, which would

require $100,000 of capitalization and an initial workforce of 15 employees from the local labor pool.

He highlighted the advantages the Philippines offers particularly in preferential access to major markets through bilateral and free trade Agreements.

The Philippines’ continues to have access to the European Union’s Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus, which UAE companies would also be entitled to access once they locate their industries in the Philippines, according to Lopez.

“Likewise, we are currently working to push for more products to be included in the talks for the US GSP, which is under discussion for renewal. These add to the value of making the Philippines a manufacturing location for your products, as products manufactured within the country may enter the US GSP market,” Lopez told prospective investors and businessmen.

Linseed Field Power set to complete first integrated liquefied natural gas terminal in Batangas in June

By Alena Mae S. Flores LINSEED Field Power Corp., a local company, is on track to complete the first integrated liquefied natural gas import terminal in Barangay Ilijan, Batangas City by June, an energy official said over the weekend.

“Linseed’s target commissioning is on track per update report with Secretary [Alfonso Cusi] last two weeks ago,” Oil Industry Management Bureau director Rino Abad said.

Abad said Linseed would likely complete the country’s first LNG project if it does not face any delays.

The DOE approved the application of Linseed in December 2021 for a permit to construct, expand, rehabilitate and modify its integrated LNG project.

It also approved the transfer of the project application from Atlantic Gulf & Pacific Company of Manila Inc. to Linseed.

AG&P will concentrate on being the project contractor.

Linseed’s LNG terminal project is esti-

mated to cost about P14.6 billion eyed for completion by June, based on documents submitted to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

The terminal is designed to utilize onshore regasification and storage, supplemented with a floating storage unit. It is adjacent to the 1,200-megawatt Ilijan combined cycle power plant.

Linseed’s facility is intended to serve the Ilijan power plant and the future projects of SMC Global Power Hold-

ings Corp. such as its 850-MW combined cycle power plant expansion.

SMCGP’s proposed 850-MW midmerit plant is scheduled to commence operations this year.

Linseed said the Ilijan plant’s supply agreement with the Malampaya gas field would expire by June.

“Linseed is targeting to commission this import facility by June 2022 so that the power plant can seamlessly secure supply and continue its operations thereafter. Therefore, the project will contrib-

ute to the national economy, improve the quality of life of the people and meet the projected need for power in the Luzon grid,” it said.

It said that without the proposed LNG terminal, the Ilijan power plant, which supplies more than 10 percent of the 11,304-MW capacity of the Luzon grid, would have to try extending its supply agreement with Malampaya, which is not likely due to almost depleted supply available or cease operations.

Sports

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Randy M. Caluag, Assistant Editor MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2022

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Phoenix turns back TNT Giga, 93 to 92

By Peter Atencio

CASHING in on their foe’s three turnovers in the final minute, the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters turned back the TNT Tropang Giga, 93-92, in their comeback game Sunday night in the 2021-22 Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

Things went downhill for the Tropang Giga when Aaron Fuller and Troy Rosario missed their shots in the last 39 seconds after they took a 92-89 edge.

Jason Perkins answered with a layup following a TNT turnover on the 27-second mark, allowing the Fuel Masters to come to within a point, 91-92.

Matthew Wright then capitalized with a steal after a bungled attempt from Jayson Castro and went for a driving layup that won for Phoenix the game with three ticks to go.

“It’s everybody helping each other out. Guys might struggle, or a regular scorer might struggle a bit. But whoever has a chance to contribute in any way, especially on defense, is much appreciated in this team,” said Fuel Masters’ coach Topex Robinson after they fought their way out of a12-point deficit.

The 6’4” Wright made a gamehigh 27 points, to go with10 assists, four rebounds and three steals for the Fuel Masters, who improved to 4-2.

Mikey Williams scored 22 points for the Tropang Giga, who now have a 2-4 card.

TNT Tropang Giga’s Jayson Castro tries to beat a Phoenix double team on his way to the basket in a PBA Governors’ Cup game won by the Fuel Masters, 93-92.

PH Under-23 booters start ASEAN bid vs. Timor Leste

By Peter Atencio

T

HE Philippines is sending a developmental national team to the ASEAN Football Federation Under-23 Championship 2022, which begins Monday.

National team coach Stewar t Hall expects his you ng wards to gai n valuable exper ience i n the 12- d ay meet, which will be held i n Ph nom Pen h, Cambodia f rom Febr uar y 14 to 26.

“T hese are the players that we have brought with us because of thei r availabilit y,” said Hall, who t al ked about the team’s goals du r i ng a vi r t ual press conference, organ ized by the ASEA N Football Federation on Zoom.

T he Filipi nos begi n thei r campaig n agai nst an equally youthf ul Ti mor Leste team at 4 p.m. (5 p.m. i n Man ila) at the Morodok Techo Nat ional St adiu m.

Both the Philippi nes and Ti mor-Lester, coached by Fabr io Mag rao, are g rouped with hosts Cambodia and Br u nei.

All teams i n the tou r nament are i n a t u neup mode, prepar i ng for the 31st Southeast Asian Games i n Hanoi, Viet nam this com i ng

May, 2022.

Cambodia’s Japanese coach Ry u Hi rose said this is a good t i me for his team to be able to f i nd out how good the t u r f is at the newly built Morodok and Pr i nce St adiu m.

“It does not mat ter which teams. T he players will f i nd out how good they are when they step on the st adiu m,” said Hi rose.

T he games are bei ng rescheduled af ter the Football Associat ion of I ndonesia i nfor med the ASEA N Football Federat ion that they have withd raw n due to CO V I D -19 complicat ions.

Several members of the I ndo nesia U-23 team tested posit ive for COV I D -19 du r i ng thei r pre depar t u re procedu res, accordi ng to a st atement for warded by the I ndonesian delegat ion.

PH delegation stays supportive of Asa YANQING, China—The country’s Chef de Mission Bones Floro remained supportive of Asa Miller after his disappointing result in the men’s giant slalom of alpine skiing on Sunday at the Beijing Winter Olympics.

Miller, 21, was one of 33 competitors who were DNF (Did Not Finish) after he fell from his skis, 15.9 seconds into his first run of the event staged in almost zero visibility and snowy conditions.

“Even if it wasn’t the ideal result for him, he [Miller] gave it his all. We know he’ll keep moving forward so we’re very proud of him. Keep going Asa,” Floro said.

“Sadly, Asa, along with 32 others, were not able to complete their first runs.”

Floro watched Miller compete along with International Olympic Committee Representative to

the Philippines Mikee Cojuangco-Jaworski and Team Philippines Covid-19 liaison officer Nikki Cheng.

They tried to catch Miller after his stint but the Filipino-American rushed to his room at the Athletes’ Olympic Village.

“We’re giving him some space at the moment,” Philippine Ski and Snowboard Federation president Jim Apelar said, adding the weather, and not Miller, was disappointing.

“I’m really disappointed but it is part of the game,” Apelar said. “The weather condition was very poor earlier, you cannot see when it’s snowing heavily unlike this afternoon when there’s a little bit of improvement.”

“But life has to move on. We still have the men’s slalom on Wednesday, we’ll just bounce back from

there,” he added.

Cheng was also sad about Miller’s result but looked forward to the slalom.

“There’s a little disappointment not on Asa but on the situation. We wanted the best, we wanted to see him out there to finish, but it’s part of the sports,” said Cheng, president of the Philippine Skating Union.

“Better luck on his next event on February 16.”

Athlete’s welfare officer Joebert Yu also expressed his disappointment.

“I feel sad because you trained for a couple of years and then everything went well for just a few seconds or less than one day,” Yu said. “But Asa still has the next event, so he needs to prepare and forget what happened today. I’m praying also for a good weather on Wednesday.”

Miller bombs out in giant slalom

Asa Miller checks out the course before the first run of the giant slalom on Sunday.

YANQING, China—Asa Miller crashed out just under 20 seconds in his first run in men’s giant slalom of alpine skiing in a snowy Sunday morning, leaving him with Wednesday’s slalom to accomplish his modest goal at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics.

Miller was focused on breaking the top 50 to improve on his 70th-rank finish in his Olympic debut in Pyeongchang four years ago.

But the weather didn’t smile on Miller and 32 other competitors, who registered DNF or Did Not Finish across their names and two not starting in the results list. They battled against almost zero visibility and falling snow—not the artificial type, which organizers sprayed on the course days ago.

There were 89 skiers on the start list, but only 54 advanced to Sunday afternoon’s second run at the Ice River, which earlier last week played antagonist to the celebrated two-time Olympic champion Mikaela Shiffrin in women’s giant slalom and slalom.

“It’s certainly a bummer as the course got skied out,” Miller’s American coach Will Gregorak said. “It’s not good on the upper pitch. I feel bum for him, but he had an excellent warmup this morning.”

Miller was so frustrated with his DNF that he rushed back to the Olympic Village with dad Kelly.

“Asa didn’t want to ski just to finish, he wants

to ski, lay down and run,” Gregorak said. “The hard part about this hill is that it comes out as you ride and it gets very slick.”

Wires report said that it was the first time snow has fallen during an alpine skiing race at these Olympics.

Snow has been falling since Saturday at the National Alpine Skiing Center, where athletes had been racing and training on artificial snow until then. A second women’s downhill training run scheduled for Sunday was canceled.

“It’s part of alpine skiing,” said Philippine Olympic Committee president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino from Tagaytay City. “But he still has the slalom on Wednesday.”

Gregorak said he is proud of Miller despite the DNF. “I’m still proud of him, he still put out the work,” he said. “Like I said, he didn’t go out [only] to finish. That’s the nature of the sport, that’s what could happen.”

The slalom is set Wednesday also starting at 10 a.m. for the first run.

“Asa wants to put his head into slalom mode,” Gregorak said. “He’ll take today and let the frustration out and then tomorrow we will go back to slalom.”

The other Southeast Asian skiers entered in the event, Thailand’s Nicola Zanon and Timor Leste’s Yohan Goncalves Goutt, finished at Nos. 44 and 52, respectively, to advance to the second run.

A FF President, Major General K hiev Sameth, said they are deeply saddened to receive the news f rom the I ndonesian federat ion, but f ully u nderst and and empathise with the I ndonesian U-23 team.

“T he pandem ic has affected many people i n the ASEA N region and cont i nues to i mpact com mun it ies tod ay. W hile we will m iss seei ng the I ndonesia U-23 Team defend thei r crow n this year, we believe that the health and safet y of ever yone are of ut most i mport ance and wish the affected members of the I ndonesia U-23 team a speedy recover y,” said Sameth.

I ndonesia was or igi nally scheduled to k ick off its campaig n i n G roup B on Febr uar y 15 agai nst Laos at the Pr i nce St adiu m.

PH athletes’ face-to-face training now possible THE risk of infection may still be around, but with health and safety protocols in place, face-to-face training for national athletes preparing for the Southeast Asian Games will now be possible at government-controlled sports facilities this week.

National Training Director Marc Velasco said this as the Philippine Sports Commission finally opens its doors this week for workouts being organized for members of the national delegation.

The Medical Scientific Athletes Services building at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex will be ready to accommodate national athletes, now that reports of COVID-19 cases are decreasing in the National Capital Region.

“We will look into this and have them (national athletes) accommodated. Even with lower alert levels, there is still the risk of infection.

Our concern is on our venues,” said Velasco.

Wushu athletes will be the first to get in a training bubble at the MSAS Bldg.

“We still have a few NSAs and they are the concern of the PSC. We have venues for them that are ready,” added Velasco, who noted that the boxing contingent is now in Baguio City, along with the national athletics’ squad, which is doing performance trials at the Athletic Bowl at the end of February.

The national karatedo squad is also in the City of Pines, while the fencers are in Ormoc City and the rowers have settled down with their training in Leyte.

On the other hand, sepak takraw athletes are getting comfortable in the training area in Bulacan.

“We really need to plan and really look into this, find out which NSAs need accommodations,” said Velasco. Peter Atencio

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Sports

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2022

PH archery team for SEAG formed

Garcia, Frayna seize chess lead

By Peter Atencio INTERNATIONAL Master Jan Immanuel Garcia and Grandmaster Janelle Mae Frayna took the lead after four rounds of the six-round grand finals of the national men’s women’s chess team selection for the Southeast Asian Games.

The 27-year-old Garcia now has 2.5 points after posting two wins and a draw in his rapid tournament duel with GM Darwin Laylo in the men’s division at the Philippine Academy for Chess Excellence in Quezon City.

Frayna also has 2.5 points in the women’s division in her six-round showdown with IM Antoinette San Diego.

Garcia stayed ahead in his clash with Laylo after they drew in 20 moves of a Zukefort opening.

In the distaff side, Frayna gained the upperhand after she turned back San Diego in 20 moves of a London System.

Woman Grandmaster Janelle Mae Frayna

By Lito Cinco

Russia’s Kamila Valieva (right) speaks to her coach Eteri Tutberidze during a training session prior the figure skating event at the Beijing 2022 Olympic Games. AFP

Valieva’s skate coach under scrutiny in doping scandal M

OSCOW — The coaching team surrounding Kamila Valieva has come under fierce scrutiny after the 15-year-old Russian figure skater was engulfed by a doping controversy at the Beijing Olympics — and none more so than Eteri Tutberidze.

After it was confirmed Friday that Valieva had failed a drugs test and could be kicked out of the Games, the hashtag “shame on Tutberidze” began trending on Twitter in Russia.

Russia’s anti-doping agency RUSADA said that “an investigation has been initiated into the athlete’s staff”.

It did not name the 47-year-old Tutberidze and there is no suggestion of wrongdoing on her behalf, but it brings renewed focus on the notoriously strict methods of a coach who has trained up a team of brilliant young skaters tasked with winning gold in Beijing.

Valieva and her 17-year-old teammates Alexandra Trusova and Anna Shcherbako-

va, who are also Tutberidze’s proteges, had been expected to dominate the women’s singles -- one of the Games’ most prestigious and scrutinised events.

Breaking her silence on the Valieva doping affair, Tutberidze told Russian television: “I am absolutely sure that Kamila is innocent and clean.”

Tutberidze has been dubbed Russia’s “Snow Queen” for her icy demeanour and no-nonsense coaching style.

She was thrust into the spotlight during Russia’s home 2014 Sochi Games, where her then-15-year-old star Yulia Lipnitskaya mesmerised with a “Schindler’s List” routine and took home gold in the team event too.

Tutberidze has since become one of the most sought-after coaches in the world.

A striking figure with blonde curls and piercing brown eyes, she is a household name in Russia, where supremacy in the sport is a point of national pride.

But her rise to fame has been coupled with controversy over her methods after several students abruptly left her team.

“I prefer to tell my athletes the truth because they will hear flattery from others,” Tutberidze told Channel One in an unusually candid interview in December, sitting with her puppy Michelle on her lap.

Dashed American dream Born into a family of five in Moscow, Tutberidze aspired to become a singles skater but a serious injury forced her to pursue ice dancing instead.

In the early 1990s she left the Soviet Union for the United States, but promises of an ice dancing job there fell through.

Stranded without work, she and her troupe struggled to make ends meet.

AFP

WORLD Archery Philippines has formed a relatively young team for the coming South East Asian Games in Vietnam in May this year.

This was announced by WAP after concluding its weeklong final qualifying tournament at the STI Gold Toe Archery Center in Marikina last Saturday, following a similar nationwide series of regional competitions in Davao, Cebu, Baguio, Dumaguete and the National Capital Region.

Members of the men’s compound team is led by 2019 SEAG gold medalist Paul Marton dela Cr uz, who was automatically seeded together with Johann Olano and Flor Natari, with Ar nold Stoney Rojas and Nino Maandig as reserves.

The women’s side will have Rachelle dela Cruz, who shared the mixed gold with husband Paul two years ago, Jennifer Chan and Andrea Robles, with reserve players Daphne Austria and Abby Tindugan.

The Philippines will also compete in the recurve event and named Jason Feliciano, Jonathan Reaport, and Girvin Garcia, together with Riley Silos and Chkeil Enecio as reserves to the men’s squad and sisters Gabrielle and Pia Bidaure, plus Phoebe Amistoso, with Danielle Danares and Keturah Gonzalez as reserve players in the distaff side.

“We believe that this team will surpass our lone gold medal in the mixed event in 2019. Definitely more medals, regardless of color. The team will have a series of tuneup tournaments here and in Thailand for an Asian Cup competition,” said WAP secretary general Dondon Sombrio, who f lew in from Cebu last Saturday.

James passes Abdul-Jabbar on all-time scoring list

LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers dunks the ball during the game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center in San Francisco, California. AFP

LOS ANGELES — NBA superstar LeBron James became the highest scoring player in combined regular season and playoff history, surpassing Los Angeles Lakers icon Kareem Abdul-Jabbar on Saturday night.

James came into Saturday’s game against the Golden State Warriors needing 19 points to pass AbdulJabbar for most combined regular season and playoff points.

Abdul-Jabbar finished his hall of fame career with 44,149 points, including 38,387 in the regular season and 5,762 in the postseason.

James drained a three pointer less than five minutes into the third quarter Saturday for his 21st point of the game and a total of 44,152 which

vaulted him past Abdul-Jabbar.

Je finished the game with 26 points but missed a key last-second free throw as the Lakers lost 117-115 to the Warriors.

James now sits number three on the all-time regular season scoring list with 36,526 points and number one on the all-time postseason scoring list with 7,657 points.

He is fewer than 500 points from passing Karl Malone for number two on the regular season scoring list. He passed Michael Jordan for number one on the all-time playoff scoring list in 2017.

James also has scored 25 points or more in 22 straight games, which is the longest such streak of his career. AFP

Jawo, Fernandez to receive PSA Lifetime Achievement awards

PHILIPPINE basketball’s most celebrated rivalry will be remembered and feted in the San Miguel Corporation-Philippine Sportswriters Association Annual Awards Night.

Cage legends Robert Jaworski Sr. and Ramon Fernandez are going to be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award in the March 14 gala night at the Diamond Hotel for their major contributions in a sport dearest to the hearts of this country of 110 million people.

The exclusive award will be one of the special recognitions to be handed out by the country’s oldest media organization during the affair which counts on the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee and Cignal TV as major partners, and backed by MILO, 1Pacman, Philippine Basketball Association, Rain or Shine, ICTSI, Chooks To Go, Smart, Philippine Racing Commission and the MVP Sports Foundation.

Jaworski and Fernandez initially formed part of the star-studded Toyota franchise that debuted in the old Manila Industrial and Commercial Athletic Association,

before taking its act to the Philippine Basketball Association as one of its founding members.

Behind the two star players, the Tamaraws won nine championships in Asia’s pioneering pro league, before the team was unceremoniously disbanded before the start of the 1984 season.

Fernandez and Jaworski went their separate ways in an episode that eventually gave birth to their memorable hardcourt rivalry.

On their own, the Big J and El Presidente became larger than life.

Jaworski, 75, planted the seeds of what became known as the eminent mantra in local basketball lore behind Ginebra San Miguel’s popular ‘Never-Say-Die’ spirit.

As its charismatic playing-coach, he steered the franchise to four championships before formally retiring from playing in 1998.

Fernandez, 68, and currently a Philippine sports commissioner, became the most single deadly force in PBA history, claiming three more MVP awards in his post-Toyota days and winning 11 additional championships in his stint

with Tanduay and San Miguel, including a grand slam in 1989. He retired as the league’s all-time leader in scoring, rebounding, blocked shots, free throws made, and career minutes played.

Years later, the two rivals eventually buried the hatchet and patched things up - initiated by the late legendary coach Baby Dalupan - behind that lasting ‘Jaworski to Fernandez pass’ for the 132-130 win at the buzzer during the 1989 PBA All-Star game.

A year after, the former teammates collaborated as coach-player in the Philippines’ silver medal finish in the 1990 Beijing Asian Games, marking the first time the country sent an all-pro team in international competitions.

Previous recipients of Lifetime Achievement awards by the country’s sportswriting community included Dalupan, billiards icon Efren ‘Bata’ Reyes, the late former ambassador and basketball project director Eduardo ‘Danding’ Cojuangco, 1973 Philippine men’s basketball team, Filomeno ‘Boy’ Codinera, Gintong Alay project director Joey Romasanta, among others.

Robert Jaworski

Ramon Fernandez

Entertainment SINGER Jeremy G turns to creating music to share his thoughts on romantic relationships in his debut extended play (EP) maybe forever out now on various digital music platforms.

“It’s actually about the stages of love— once you listen to the songs together, you’ll realize we all go through the same emotions. All these songs are about hope and wondering whether what you did or happened was right,” Jeremy explained.

“We often think all romantic relationships reliably progress from the initial meet to infatuation, to a series of small trials, and finally to happily-everafter. Love is a journey without a final

this be love?

THE more than a dozen of videos that chronicle the closeness of Ken Suson and Stell Ajero is a perfect of bromance, which Google defines as “a close, nonsexual relationship between two men.”

The hot members of SB19, Felip Jhon and Stellvester, are the major reasons why the majority of their supporters get kilig overload every time their affection and care for each other become the central subject matter of the shipping videos dedicated to them. Thus, KenTell, a portmanteau created for them by their shippers, was born.

Even the rest of the SB19 quintet composed of their leader John Pablo Nase, Josh Cullen Santos, and Justin de Dios also have their fair share of being total care bears.

So what is it about Stell and Ken that brings kilig and that hope against hope that this bromance transforms into real life, boys love romance?

Their being openly warm and tender towards one another is undeniable. In the many videos, one can witness how they hold hands and reach out for each other.

When seated together, their thighs gently touch, with either Ken or Stell’s hand, from time to time, lands on their respective flanks. Even if they are seated apart, the eye locking incidents, are obvious. They also make it a point to be near each other most of the time.

Giving bear hugs and tighter than tight embraces is a natural thing for the duo.

Stell indulges the piggyback ride antics of Ken. When Stell becomes most playful, planting a kiss on Ken’s cheeks or pretending to bite on the latter’s neck instantaneously takes place.

In the many interviews, without them realizing it, their emotional and brother connection becomes most apparent. Their care and concern for each other is not “put on.” The sincerity is all visible.

Oftentimes, they act as if they are the only people in the world who are having so much fun and the time they spend together is precious and they make each other happy.

What I like most about the bromance between Ken and Stell is that to be a spectator to two young men who are congenial and expressing their care for one another shows

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2022

C3

Jeremy G depicts stages of love in debut EP

Jeremy G

KenTell

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com

ARIAS ALWIN IGNACIO

the impressive levels of their emotional intelligence and health. They are showing to all that men need not be so “rigid” and “inflexible” in demonstrating feelings and acts of physical intimacy.

Ken and Stell may not be aware of it but they are cosmopolitan and progressive in their ways of dealing with each other. As they celebrate their friendship in a manner that they know is best for them, with the whole world as their audience, one can conclude that Ken and Stell indeed have a fine bromance worthy of emulation. Real men can and may show their feelings and affection, too, and yes, there is nothing “pink” about it. And people must also accept the fact that we must not box men on what they can and cannot do, especially with their male friends.

It is high time for us to stop judging other people just because they are more comfortable in their own skin. Let us end the dagger looks and wicked smiles when we become on-lookers to a pair of men who are feeling and showing their platonic love.

Let us hope that as the days go by, there will be more Stell Ajero and Ken Suson happy vibes videos and photos. Frankly speaking, I’d rather watch all the KenTell bromance videos that are currently online than view all the heated arguments and hatred that currently consumes the majority because of the current political climate What you may consider juvenile, this KenTell bromance, brings a lot of joy, not to mention kilig, and that sense of peace, to so many people who need inspiration and smiles. Thank you Felip Jhon Suson and Stellvester Ajero for making this world beautiful.

SB19 members Ken Suson (left) and Stell Ajero

Kiray Celis, Stephan Estopia

star in Valentine short film

Pares Retiro pays tribute to the Filipino culture and heritage – incorporating classic Pinoy designs and digital displays acknowledging the successes of some of the world-renowned Filipino athletes and celebrities such as Efren Bata Reyes, Paeng Nepomuceno and the likes – as seen in all of its branches.

Bigtime Studios is Pares Retiro’s marketing arm. The resto is branded as the Totoong Pagkaing Pilipino with 40 branches nationwide.

Over the past decades, Pares Retiro has managed to establish its position in elevating the quality of its product including the atmosphere of its branches.

Its core product Classic Pares is proudly the first of its kind with science-backed studies ensuring the right balance of saltiness and sweetness.

For information and inquiries, visit www.paresretiro.com/franchise, and for more updates on the movie, visit the (From left) Concon Felix, Stephan Estopia, Kiray brand’s Facebook page; @paresretiro.

Celis, and Arthem Basierto in ‘Pares Tayo’

destination,” he added.

The maybe forever EP includes five original songs, four of which were written, composed, and co-produced

by Jeremy himself including the prereleased single “someday” along with “who knows,” “forever maybe,” and key track “sunflower,” which music video is being today on ABS-CBN Star Music’s YouTube channel.

Trisha Denise’s composition “by your side” is also part of the album that’s produced overall by Star Pop head Rox Santos.

Jeremy described “who knows” as a song for those who are hesitant to take a leap of faith while “by your side” is about

vocalizing how much your loved ones mean to you.

Meanwhile, “someday” expresses hopefulness for a relationship to work out despite distance, “sunflower” is a song about coping after a heartbreak, and “forever maybe” tackles the future one still dreams of with an ex-lover.

Aside from his debut EP and being a regular performer in ASAP Natin ‘To, he will also show his acting chops in the upcoming ABS-CBN and iQiyi production Lyric and Beat, where he’ll star alongside Andrea Brillantes, Seth Fedelin, Darren Espanto, AC Bonifacio, Angela Ken, and Sheena Belarmino, to name a few.

Fall in love anew with ‘First Lady’

Sanya Lopez with Gabby Concepcion

VERY WANG

G

NICKIE WANG

ABBY Concepcion and Sanya Lopez, now playing first couple President Glenn Acosta and Melody Acosta, are ready to make viewers fall in love again this Valentine’s Day with the sequel of their top-rating series hitting the small screen this evening.

Apart from making the audience feel the romance between the lead characters, the sequel aims to be a timely and relatable source of entertainment this election season. In fact, political and

JUST in time for the Valentine season, Bigtime Studios is releasing its signature song “Pares Tayo” performed by Steven Peregrina. The song is launched together with the short film of the same title starring Kiray Celis and her real life boyfriend Stephan Estopia, with Concon Felix, Arthem Basierto, and Boy Bangus.

The gender-neutral story features the Filipino restaurant’s special and popular food offerings. On top of that,

Gabby (left) and Sanya reprised their roles as the fictional President and First Lady of the Philippines in ‘First Lady’

Sanya (right) transforms into a classy woman for her role as first lady

research consultants, including a national elections political strategist and a current member of the Presidential Management Staff (PMS), were hired to help to create a realistic view of the First Family’s daily life.

“We didn’t expect that we’re going to have a Book 2. But First Yaya was really good and we have a good team that brought us to where we are right now,” Gabby said during the media conference for First Lady, the title of First Yaya sequel.

Sanya admits that the change in her character is challenging. From sunny person Yaya Melody Reyes, she now trans-

forms into classy Meloday Acosta, the first lady.

“I can easily relate to First Yaya kasi medyo malapit-lapit talaga ang personality ko sa kanya. Now, I really had to study the character of First Lady with the help of our director,” she stated.

First Yaya ended on a happy note with the fairytale romance of President Glenn and Melody. This time around, the newlywed couple navigates new territory and delves into trust and doubt; change and tradition; and the line of clear communication that will challenge their marriage. As Glenn seeks another term to his presidency, Melody needs to reassess and find her place once more in her husband’s ever-chaotic and busy life.

Still playing important roles in the primetime soap are Pancho Magno reprising his role as PSG Captain Conrad Enriquez, Pilar Pilapil as Blesilda, the headstrong mother of PGA, Boboy Garovillo as Florencio, Melody’s father who passed away but still appears to her visions, Maxine Medina as Lorraine, Melody’s former rival turned “frienemy,” Thou Reyes as Yessy, Presidential Management Chief-of-Staff who also holds the post of Presidential Spokesperson, and Sandy Andolong as Edna, the loving and streetwise mother of Melody.

Cassy Legaspi as Nina Acosta, the eldest daughter of PGA, JD Domagoso as Jonas, Nina’s boyfriend, Clarence Delgado as Nathan, the second child of PGA, and Patricia Coma as Nicole, the youngest child of PGA who is closest to Melody, are also back in the series.

Adding more color to the lives of the first couple and the people surrounding them is Alice Dixson as Atty.

Ingrid Domingo, a political strategist that eventually gets hired by President Glenn Acosta’s (PGA) campaign team to be the political director of his presidential bid. Moreover, she is revealed to be Glenn’s former serious girlfriend – a fact that could rock not just the presidency, but also the President’s family.

Completing the cast are Rocco Nacino, Isabel Rivas, Francine Prieto, Samantha Lopez, Shyr Valdez, John Feir, Divine, Kakai Bautista, Analyn Barro, Glenda Garcia, Thia Thomalla, Anjo Damiles, Jon Lucas, Jerick Dolormente, Muriel Lomadilla, Kiel Rodriguez, and Cecil Paz. Directed by LA Madridejos with associate director Rechie del Carmen, First Lady airs weeknights, on GMA, GTV, and Heart of Asia.

Life

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com

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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2022

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In love with Florence

ODAY, being Valentine’s Day, I decided to reminisce on some of the beautiful destinations in many parts of the world that I have fallen in love with. One of these memorable places that continue to captivate my heart, my soul, and my whole being is Florence, Italy.

Firenze, as it is called in Italian, is the capital of the Tuscany region which is in central Italy. Its diverse natural landscape, which is usually dominated by rolling vineyards and those tall, majestic cypress trees, is definitely a sight to behold. It is the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance which is the main reason why hordes of tourists continue to flock to the region aside, of course, from the lure of the vintage wines from its many vineyards.

When my siblings and I arrived in Florence, we did not waste any time because there were just so many sights listed in our “must visit” list, the city being home to many masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture.

First stop was the Duomo di Firenze, formally known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (St. Mary of the Flower) which got its name from the lily, the symbol of Florence. It is the most important landmark in the city and is the third largest cathedral in the world, following St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and St. Paul’s Cathedral in London.

Taking 140 years to build, the structure’s 19th century Gothic Revival design makes it stand out among the other old buildings in the area. Its dome

The imposing façade of the Cathedral of Sta. Maria del Fiore in Florence

is an architectural wonder because it veins in his lowered right hand. His left is composed of four million bricks, hand holds the sling which is draped weighing over 40,000 tons, standing over his shoulder, crossing down at his 10 stories high, making it the largest back to his lowered right hand which masonry dome in the world, a mas- holds the handle. terpiece way ahead of its time.

The colossal size of David is not The uniquely attractive exterior of the only impressive, it has also become cathedral is made of polychrome mar- the Renaissance symbol of strength ble panels in various shades of green and youthful beauty, aside from origiand pink, bordered with white material. nally signifying Florence’s message to In front is its equally famous Baptistry its more powerful political adversaries. with doors made of bronze, so majestic To revisit the beautiful memories of looking that it is often referred to as The Gate To Paradise. our childhood years, my siblings and I The cathedral also has a free-standing 278-foot Campa- decided to pass by the Pinocchio Museum nile or Bell Tower, made attractive by rich cultural deco- which is conveniently located in between the Galrations and its polychrome marble encrustations. leria and the Cathedral. In there, the world-famous Next stop was at the nearby Galleria dell’Accademia creation of Carlo Lorenzini (aka Carlo Collodi), a di Firenze (Gallery of the Academy of Florence) which native of Florence, comes to life through very athouses Michaelangelo’s famous sculpture, David, tractive and interesting multimedia presentations. among many other beautiful masterpieces. The 17- Of course, we couldn’t help getting for ourselves some merchandise depicting foot, 16th century marble statue of the Biblical hero was the world-famous puppet.

A visit to Florence is never originally put up in the public YOUR MONDAY CHUCKLE complete unless one finds the square outside the city’s seat time to relax and de-stress, so of government, to symbolQUERY: Why do people order double we drove to the outskirts of ize the city’s defense of its cheeseburgers, large fries, and then, get Coke Zero? the city and enjoyed our quota civil liberties, as it was then of vintage wines from the rethreatened on all sides by gion, amidst the calming view more powerful rival states. of majestic cypress trees and It was only after almost 400 years that the statue was transferred to its present loca- rolling vineyards. I realize I’ve ticked off the city on tion at the Galleria. my bucket list but I also know I will find the time to Our tour guide explained to us that, unlike the other visit it again. After all, love means never having to say statues depicting David and his triumph over Goliath, goodbye! Ti amo, Firenze! this version by Michaelangelo shows the hero before the battle, as he looks tense and ready, with bulging For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@gmail.com

The Cathedral’s solid bronze door is also called The Gate To Paradise

The towering 278-foot Campanile is part of the Cathedral complex

RSVP your way to an unforgettable Valentine’s Day

Pinocchio stands guard at the entrance to his museum

THE Manila Hotel can help you plan a special surprise for your partner or family this Love Month. Guests can impress their loved ones with a selection of exceptional dining experiences especially made for the sweet occasion.

Celebrate romance by enjoying The Champagne Room’s Valentine Surprise menu in a romantic and

Savor specialties from Barcino, Prego, and Tuan Tuan when dining at the Skypark

MAKE this Valentine’s Day extra special with creative ways to spend time with your loved one at SM Aura Premier.

Bake with your bae

“Bake some love” with your bae for your #relationshipgoals this Valentine’s Day. Sign-up for a baking session and make sweet memories at Bakebe located at the second floor of SM Aura Premier.

Bake a cake for only P999/pax while enjoying wine from Barcino and surprising your bae with a Petalier Valentine Bouquet! Book your baking date via this link: http://m.me/bakebeph.

Mini golf date

Book a mini golf date at the first roof-deck miniature golf. Couples can enjoy the puttputt course, featuring five holes with varying degrees of challenge difficulty at the Skypark of SM Aura Premier. Book your way for ex-

Café Ilang-ilang’s special Valentine’s Day dinner

Amp up the romance this Heart’s Day with Café Ilang-Ilang’s Special Valentine’s Day Dinner. The delightful romantic buffet dinner is at P3,950 nett per person. For guests’ peace of mind, at The Manila Hotel installed HEPA air purification and filtration systems in various areas of the hotel like Café Ilang-Ilang and Champagne Room to ensure better air quality and cleanliness, to kill bacteria and viruses according to its manufacturers so #YouAreSaferHere.

Ultimate Valentine takeout gifts

Barramundi fillet with scallops and mussels

Dine at the Skypark

Bask in the sunset amidst the BGC skyline, breathe the fresh air, and savor some sumptuous food from Barcino, Prego, and Tuan Tuan with your loved one at the Skypark Lawn, or make it a special date at the Courtyard with great food from Yabu and Ramen Nagi.

Make your reservations online to secure a table with a view via this link: https://bit.ly/ DineAtSkypark

A row of majestic cypress trees enhance the breathtaking view of Tuscany’s countryside

It’s a date at the Manila Hotel

Romantic evening date at The Champagne Room

While intimate dinners will always be heart-warming, SM Aura suggests some ways to make it truly memorable this year.

Make something sweet with your partner this Valentine’s Day at Bakebe

dreamy ambiance. Until Feb. 15, diners can choose between the Australian Barramundi Fillet Scallop and Mussels or Beef Tenderloin and Pan-Seared Foie Gras for their main, a stater of Wild Tasmanian Salmon, and a dessert of Chocolate Mousse

Enjoy a game of mini golf at the Skypark of SM Aura Premier clusive time at the mini golf course via this link: https://bit.ly/MiniGolfAura.

Enjoy the magic of movies

Missing your pre-pandemic movie dates? They’re back with blockbusters at SM Aura’s Director’s Club. Experience comfort and luxury with your plush leather recliner seats, unparalleled sound with Dolby Atmos and laser projection system. Secure your movie tickets early at the SM Cinema website via this link: https://bit.ly/CinemaAura.

Michelangelo’s David is the main attraction at the Galleria dell’Accademia

The Champagne Room’s Valentine’s Day dessert

with Mango Jelly Delight. The set is P5,500 per head, and a rate for a family of four of P21,000 nett with a bottle of sparkling wine.

If you’re not in the mood to go out, The Manila Hotel still can make this year’s Valentines more memorable with M Takeout dishes for takeout or delivery: The Valentine Grazing Box comes pralines, cheeses, macarons, muffins, fruits, crackers, salami, brownies, and garlic cheese spread.

This package is a guaranteed way to wow your special someone for only P3,480 nett.

Skip the cooking part and serve our Valentine’s Treat Home Buffet for your family. The set consists of Tenderloin to Spinach Ravioli to Cream Puffs, and more (P3,880) and with a bottle of sparkling wine option (P5,580).

The Valentine’s Treat Bento Meals (solo at P1,188) includes Norwegian Salmon, Beef Tenderloin, a side of Prawn Pomelo Salad, and dessert. This can be ordered for two persons (P2,088) or for two with a 375ml bottle of red wine (P2,588).

The M Takeout Valentine’s Treat menu is available for takeout (pick-up) or delivery (for a separate fee) until Feb. 28.

Beetrootcured wild Tasmanian salmon

Valentine Discounts

The Manila Hotel also brings more fun to this year’s Valentine by giving 30 percent discounts. All in-house guests today are eligible to avail of the discount on their food bill when they dine in at either Café IlangIlang or The Champagne Room. This can’t be used in conjunction with other discounts like The Manila Hotel Prestige, Senior Citizen, PWD, and others.

For reservation and dining rates, please call our hotline numbers at (02) 85270011 or 0998- 9501912.

Beef tenderloin with pan seared foie gras

You may also email restaurantrsvn@ themanilahotel.com; or check and book online for Café Ilang-Ilang via https:// www.manila-hotel.com.ph/dining/cafeilang-ilang/ and The Champagne Room via https://www.manila-hotel.com.ph/ dining/champagne-room/.

For Rooms, call Room Reservations at 8527-0011 local 1175 to 1179 during work hours, or email resvn@themanilahotel.com.

To order and purchase our Valentine Grazing Box, Home Buffet and Bento sets, access the website at http://www. manila-hotel.com.ph.valentines/