Manila Standard - 2022 February 27 - Sunday

DOH: NCR, 6 regions ready for Alert Level 1 Vol. 36 n No. 17

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FEBRUARY 27, 2022 8 PAGES

THE Department of Health has given Metro Manila and six other regions the green light to drop to COVID-19 Alert Level 1 next month thanks to their high coronavirus vaccination rate, an official said.

This developed as the Philippines on Saturday logged 1,223 additional COVID-19 cases, the eighth day in a row that new recorded infections dropped below 2,000, data from the DOH showed.

Health Undersecretary Myrna Cabotaje said the

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BACK ON THE BEACH. Tourists flock along the beach in Station 2, Brgy. Balabag, Boracay Island in Malay, Aklan on Saturday, as most areas in the country are now open to all types of tourists with the COVID-19 restrictions easing. Danny Pata

Oil price hike reprieve seen DOE: Higher fuel costs to discourage demand, roll back prices

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ILIPINOS may yet see a reprieve in the steady rise of oil prices enhanced by the invasion of Russia on Ukraine, as an official of the Department of Energy said the higher cost of fuel will eventually discourage demand and lead to rollbacks or drops in pump prices.

“When prices are too high, demand will drop, and if it goes below the-one million [barrel] supply deficit, possibly, in a matter of days or months, an oversupply will occur and there will be rollbacks,” DOE Oil Industry Management Bureau Director Rino Abad said in an interview on Dobol B TV. This developed as the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Saturday said it was studying proposals to increase the minimum fares in commuter jeepneys to P10 as petroleum prices continued to rise.

“We continue to study this, a petition is pending before us, and it is set for a hearing on March 8,” LTFRB Executive Director Maria Kristina Cassion said in a televised briefing on PTV. Motorists should brace for another round of price hikes next week, which would mark the ninth straight week of increases since the beginning of the year, Unioil Petroleum Philippines said on Saturday.

In its fuel price forecast for March 1 to 7 trading week, Unioil said the price per liter of diesel may increase by P0.80 to P0.90.

Gasoline prices, meanwhile, may go up by P0.90 to P1.00 per liter.

Gasoline prices are expected to go up as Russia faces economic sanctions, Political Science and International Relations Professor Anna Malindog-Uy earlier said.

But the Energy department’s Abad cited

Pinoys flee Kyiv for Lviv, more expected—DFA

SAFE IN POLAND. In this photo tweeted by DFA Undersecretary Sarah Lou Arriola, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro

Locsin Jr. meets 13 overseas Filipinos who crossed the Ukraine-Poland border amid the invasion of Russian troops into the former Soviet republic.

Ukraine leader: Russian push on capital ‘derailed’ KYIV—President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday said Ukraine’s force had halted the Kremlin’s push to capture Kyiv and oust him and urged Russians to pressure leader Vladimir Putin to stop the invasion.

Speaking in a new video address, Zelensky accused Moscow of seeking to overthrow him and establish a puppet state in Ukraine.

“We’ve derailed their plan,” the 44-year-old leader said, stressing that the Ukrainian army was in control of the capital Kyiv and main cities around it.

But the Kremlin on Saturday accused Ukraine of prolonging the military conflict by refusing to negotiate as Russia pressed

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PRAYING FOR PEACE. A religious woman holds a cross as she prays on Independence Square in Kyiv, Ukraine in the morning of February 24. AFP

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VPS AT UST. The CNN Philippines vice presidential debate stage at the University of

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Bello grills Sotto, Pangilinan in CNN VP debate

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AT LEAST 40 Filipinos have fled Ukraine’s capital Kyiv and headed to the western city of Lviv after Russia launched a full-scale attack on Feb. 24.

In a statement Saturday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed their safe arrival in Lviv, expecting the number to increase in the coming days.

“The Philippine Embassy in cooperation with DFA-OUMWA (Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs), is committed to assisting the remaining Filipinos in Kyiv and in other parts of Ukraine in order to bring them out of harm’s way while there is still time,” Philippine Ambassador to Poland Leah Basinang-Ruiz said.

In other developments, a cargo ship owned by a Japanese firm was hit by a missile off the coast of Ukraine in the Black Sea on Friday -injuring one Filipino crew member -- the marine transportation firm in western Japan said Saturday.

Filipino crew members aboard a Turkish ship are also safe after the vessel was hit by a Russian bomb in the port city of Odessa, the DFA said on Saturday.

In Manila, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) on Saturday called on

Santo Tomas auditorium.

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VICE presidential candidates on Saturday expounded on their expertise and experience when asked for their preferred Cabinet positions if elected in the May 9 polls in a debate hosted

by CNN Philippines -- marked by the absence of the survey frontrunner, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio.

Professor Walden Bello was

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SARA GETS ZAMBO LEADERS’ PLEDGES OF POLL SUPPORT NEWS | 2A

LA UNION GOVERNOR: PROVINCE ‘ALL IN’ FOR BONGBONG MARCOS NEWS | 2A

IN BRIEF

Youth group files charges vs. Pharmally

FEBRUARY 27, 2022

PLACARDS AND CANDLES.

In celebration of the 36th Anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution and in commemoration of the victims of Martial Law, the Solid Leni Bicol YouthTabaco Chapter hold up placards and light candles with Tabaco City Mayor Krisel Lagman (inset) and other officials in the ‘Walk of Hope: Torch Parade for Truth’ in the Albay metropolis. Norman Cruz

Ortega: La Union ‘all in’ for BBM L

A UNION Gov. Francisco Emmanuel Ortega III said the province will give its full support to presidential candidate Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and his UniTeam because they see him as the “symbol of unity” that will help the country in recovering from the pandemic.

Ortega made the declaration Friday night infront of a jampacked crowd at the Poro Point Baywalk in San Fernando during the UniTeam’s grand rally.

Meanwhile, Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) standard-bearer Marcos Jr. has called on the government to ensure the safety of Filipinos in wartorn Ukraine following Russia’s attack on its cities including the capital Kyiv.

“We have to get our countrymen there out of harm’s way. Let’s not wait for the aggression to

escalate further. The DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) should speed up on the mass repatriation while we can still do so, especially with Russian forces allegedly targeting civilian areas,” he said.

According to the latest count of the DFA, there are some 260 Filipinos in Ukraine. Most of the overseas Filipino workers there are based in Kyiv.

Also, the UniTeam of Marcos and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio said recently it intends to pursue legislative and policy reforms that will further ease doing business in the country, as part

of its policy blueprint to revive the economy and promote job creation.

According to the latest World Bank-issued ‘Doing Business’ report in 2020, the Philippines ranks 95th, improving by 29 notches from its 124th position in 2019.

The Doing Business report serves as a reference for foreign investors on a particular country’s global competitiveness.

“Tunay na pagkakaisa at pag-unlad ng buong Pilipinas ang kanyang hangarin. Hawak niya ang mga pangarap at mithiin ng bawat Pilipino na kanyang dadalhin at tutuparin sa hinaharap,” Gov. Ortega said.

“Dahil dito nakuha niya ang suporta, tiwala at pagmamahal hindi lamang dito sa ating rehiyon, kundi sa lahat ng bahagi ng bansa,” he announced before introducing Marcos to his constituents.

Sara gets Zambo peninsula leaders’ pledge of support

By Maricel V. Cruz LAKAS CMD vice presidential aspirant Sara Duterte on Saturday secured the support of the rest of the peninsula’s leaders following her visit in Zamboanga del Norte Friday.

Duterte first met with Pagadian City Mayor Samuel Co, who was with Sibugay First District Rep. Wilter Palma II, and their local party Arangkada Pusong Asenso provincial and local slates.

Vice governor aspirant Priscilla Co said they “commit to support” Duterte’s vice presidential bid.

“We want continuity of President Rodrigo Duterte’s programs,” Co said.

In a separate event, Duterte met with Zamboanga del Sur Governor Victor Yu, his wife First District Rep. Divina Grace Yu, and the local officials of the province.

The governor thanked Duterte for her help to Yu’s team in the 2019 elections.

Yu called on his constituents to show the Davao City mayor the love and support she needs for her vice presidential bid.

Duterte said she needs the elected leaders to support her advocacy in uniting the Filipinos especially after elections.

She also thanked the supporters who lined up on the streets and joined the crowd in all her activities for the day.

Defensor widens lead in QC poll QUEZON City mayoral candidate Mike Defensor and his running mate Winnie Castelo have maintained their big lead over their rivals nine weeks before the May 9 elections.

The February Pulso ng Bayan poll conducted by The Issues and Advocacy Center showed that 51 percent preferred Defensor to be their next city mayor.

Incumbent Mayor Joy Belmote’s score went down by five points, from 39 percent in January to 34 percent this month.

Defensor has sustained his above-50-percent or majority voter preference since The Issues and Advocacy Center started its tracking poll in December.

As for Castelo, he widened his margin over incumbent Vice Mayor Gian Sotto.

Defensor’s running mate increased his voter preference score by one point to 49 percent, while incumbent Sotto’s survey mark decreased by one point to 21 percent, giving Castelo a 28-percentage-point lead. Maricel V. Cruz

STAMPS FOR LEGENDS. A worker of the Philippine Postal Corp. holds up the new ‘Living Legends – Outstanding Filipinos: Series I’

Lacson ready ‘to go to war’ 40,000 Ilonggos muster for Robredo rally in CNN debate

stamps featuring ten outstanding Filipinos -- actresses Nora Aunor, Susan Roces, Gloria Romero, and Vilma Santos, scientist and physician Dr. Ernesto O. Domingo, chemist Dr. Baldomero Olivera, basketball legend Ramon Fernandez, and actress-philanthropist Rosa Rosal. The event Saturday is in line with the commemoration of the 75th Anniversary of the first issuance of stamps by the country. Norman Cruz

ILOILO proved that it remains Vice President Leni Robredo’s bailiwick, making history after over 40,000 Ilonggos filled the Iloilo Sports Complex and mustered its biggest political rally to date.

Iloilo’s native son, Senator Franklin Drilon, before introducing Robredo onstage, described the event as the “biggest political rally” in the province, while Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas gave the 40,000 crowd estimate.

Drilon said in jest that the huge crowd only showed that Ilonggos can match the Bicolanos’ love for Robredo, who was born in Naga City.

With only 72 days left before election day, Robredo also told her Guimaranon supporters that she would push for the completion of the Negros-Guimaras-Iloilo bridge, which she described as a “life changing project” for the people if she gets elected as the country’s next President.

More than a thousand of Robredo’s Guimaranon supporters gave the presidential aspirant a festive welcome at the San Miguel Provincial Capitol Gym in San Miguel, Jordan, Guimaras.

Decorated with pink buntings and banners, the sports complex was

packed with people dressed in pink shirts waving their homemade signs.

Robredo was welcomed by Nueva Valencia Mayor Manny Galila.

Meanwhile, supporters of Robredo now have a fun and easy way of keeping up with the hardworking presidential aspirant through the Leni App on Android and iOS. The Leni 2022 App is a phone application designed to solidify support for the Vice President in the digital age by bridging the gap between the official campaign and the different grassroots groups supporting Robredo.

Isko admits being ‘little bit nervous’ to face off with 8 presidential rivals AKSYON Demokratiko standard bearer Isko Moreno Domagoso said Saturday that he is a little bit nervous but very excited for the CNN Philippines’ presidential debates that will be held Sunday, which he likened as going to a job interview but with the people acting as the chief human resources officer.

But at the same time, Moreno said he is excited and eager to attend the debates because it gives him the opportunity to present to the voters his aspirations for the Filipino people, and

A YOUTH group has filed a complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman against former Procurement Service Chief Undersecretary Christopher Lloyd Lao and executives of Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp., including former presidential adviser Michael Yang and Quezon City congressional aspirant Rose Nono Lin. Samahan ng Progresibong Kabataan (SPARK), an activist youth organization, in its complaint expressed belief that criminal charges be filed against the individuals involved in the Sandiganbayan.

“The facts are simple: the Filipino people were swindled out of billions, in a time when even our next meal is uncertain,” John Lazaro, SPARK Spokesperson, said in a statement.

Lazaro said the complaint is based on the testimonies and admissions during the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearings, in which more than P8 billion in contracts were awarded to Pharmally, an undercapitalized corporation which had no previous track record in government procurement. Maricel V. Cruz

his platform and programs on how to achieve it.

“Nakakakaba. But just the same, sabi ko nga, aplikante kami ni Doc Willie (Ong), nagtatrabraho kami. Kailangan naming magpa-interview sa HR. Yung HR department, yun yung taumbayan na manonood. Aplikante ka sa trabaho, sabihin mo yung karanasan mo, kaya mong gawin at mga naiisip po para naman makapagpagaan sa katatayuan ng ating mga kababayan,” the 47-year-old presidential aspirant said.

TINGOG TURNOVER. Tingog Party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez (5th from right)

turns over a new covered court in Babatngon, Leyte to Brgy. Guintigi-an Brgy. Captain Nestor Lacaba and the Barangay Council, one of many projects intended to help local government units in Eastern Visayas. Also present were Babatngon Mayor Maria Fe Rondina (beside Romualdez), vice mayoral candidate Bong Fabi, Jr., and municipal council candidates Joel Rondina, Jojo Fabi, Karl Embana, Evelyn Montaño, Julius Niegas, Butch Lawson, and Winston Menzon. Miko Noveno

PARTIDO Reporma presidential candidate Panfilo “Ping” Lacson is “prepared to go to war”—that is, for the CNN Philippines presidential debate happening today at the University of Santo Tomas auditorium.

Meanwhile, with oil prices soaring at over $100 per barrel and stock markets facing increased volatility amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Lacson said Filipinos must anticipate the costs of living to get more expensive in the coming days.

Also, Cutting the country’s dropout rate is a key goal for the Partido Reporma standard-bearer and running mate Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III under their “Edukasyon Plus” program, as they aim to reverse a disturbing trend and give Filipinos the quality education they deserve.

Lacson and Sotto also said more food terminals will sprout across the country once they gain the people’s mandate following the May 9 national elections.

Alluding to Lacson’s background as a former military and police officer, spokesman Ashley “Ace” Acedillo said that like in previous debates, the Partido Reporma standard-bearer is more than ready to face eight other presidential hopefuls head on in a clash of ideas and plans for the Filipino people ahead of the May 9 national elections.

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WORLD

HUDDLE FOR SAFETY. People gather in a tent to avoid aftershocks in West Pasaman, Indonesia’s West Sumatra province on February 26, a day after a magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck the region. AFP

WORLDBRIEFS

FB bans Russian state media ads

FEBRUARY 27, 2022

SAN FRANCISCO—Facebook on Friday restricted Russian state media’s ability to earn money on the social media platform as Moscow’s invasion of neighboring Ukraine reached the streets of Kyiv.

“We are now prohibiting Russian state media from running ads or monetizing on our platform anywhere in the world,” Nathaniel Gleicher, the social media giant’s security policy head, said on Twitter.

He added that Facebook would “continue to apply labels to additional Russian state media.”

Facebook’s parent company Meta said earlier Friday that Russia would hit its services with restrictions after it refused authorities’ order to stop using fact-checkers and content warning labels on its platforms.

Social media networks have become one of the fronts in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, home to sometimes misleading information but also real-time monitoring of a quickly developing conflict that marks Europe’s biggest geopolitical crisis in decades.

“Yesterday, Russian authorities ordered us to stop the independent fact-checking and labelling of content posted on Facebook by four Russian state-owned media organizations,” Meta’s Nick Clegg said in a statement. “We refused.”

His statement came hours after Russia’s media regulator said it was limiting access to Facebook, accusing the US tech giant of censorship, and violating the rights of Russian citizens.

On Wednesday, Facebook also released a feature in Ukraine that allows people to lock their profiles for increased security, using a tool the company also deployed after Afghanistan fell to the Taliban last year. AFP

Indonesian rescuers search for earthquake survivors UN to agree on plan for ‘historic’ plastics treaty of 100 nations NAIROBI -- More than 100 nations convening in Nairobi next week are expected to take the first steps toward establishing a historic global treaty to tackle the plastic crisis afflicting the planet.

Plastic has been found in Arctic Sea ice, the bellies of whales and Earth’s atmosphere, and governments have been under increasing pressure to unite in action against the global scourge.

Negotiators are hammering out the framework for a legally binding plastic treaty that diplomats say is the most ambitious environmental pact since the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change.

“This is a big moment. This is one for the history books,” Inger Andersen, head of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), told AFP this week.

The exact scope of the treaty remains to be defined. There are competing proposals being drafted ahead of a three-day UN environment summit starting Monday in Nairobi.

World leaders and environment ministers meeting in-person and virtually are expected to kickstart the treaty process by appointing a negotiating committee to finalize the policy details over the next two years.

But more than 50 countries, along with scientists, businesses, and environment groups, have publicly called for tough new regulations on industry to curb the torrent of plastic entering the environment.

This could include caps on the production of new plastic -- which is made from oil and gas and forecast to double by 2040 -- redesigning products to make recycling easier or less harmful, and phasing out single-use items.

‘Treaty with teeth’ Many countries, including major plastic producers like the United States and China, have expressed general support for a treaty, but stopped short of endorsing any specific measures.

But there is broad consensus that countries acting alone cannot fix the problem, and a coordinated global response is needed.

Since the 1950s, the rate of plastic production has grown faster than any other material, vastly outpacing national efforts to keep the environment clean. AFP

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AKARTA—Rescue teams in Indonesia were searching Saturday for six people still missing after a strong earthquake rocked Sumatra Island a day earlier, killing at least eight people and injuring dozens, an official said.

The 6.2-magnitude quake hit the island’s north at a depth of 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) minutes after a less violent tremor Friday morning, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), displacing thousands.

It damaged hundreds of homes and buildings including mosques, schools, and banks, forcing terrified residents to evacuate and shuttle loved ones to safety in temporary shelters.

“At the moment the search is ongoing for six people we predict have been buried by a landslide,” said Abdul Muhari, spokesman of Indonesia’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), in a statement Saturday.

At least 86 people were injured in the quake, with 10 suffering serious injuries, according to the BNPB. More than 6,000 people have been evacuated in Sumatra’s West Pasaman and Pasaman city, where rescue workers were using heavy equipment to search for survivors in the rubble of buildings, the agency said.

Indonesian meteorological agency BMKG warned people to stay away from slopes over

FromtheFRONTPAGE PINOYS...

Filipinos to unite in prayer for world peace, especially in Ukraine.

In an interview with Church-run Radio Veritas, CBCP president, Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, said fervent prayer is important to prevent the escalation of tension between Russia and Ukraine.

“We, the bishops of the Philippines, are saddened and in solidarity with our Christian brothers and sisters in Ukraine who are really anxious today; let us pray because

UKRAINE...

on with its invasion of the pro-Western country.

“In connection with the expected negotiations, the Russian president yesterday afternoon ordered the suspension of the advance of the main forces of the Russian Federation,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters during a conference call.

“Since the Ukrainian side refused to negotiate, the advance of the Russian forces resumed this afternoon.”

fears of landslides at the peak of the rainy season.

Authorities in West Pasaman have declared a two-week state of emergency while the search and relief efforts continue.

“People affected by the quake urgently need tarpaulin, tents, instant food, clean water and family supplies,” Muhari said.

Images shared with AFP from Pasaman city, near the quake’s epicentre, showed partially collapsed houses with bricks lying on the ground and holes in the walls.

The town mayor’s residence also suffered damage, with shattered glass all over the floor, according to BNPB head Suharyanto, who like many Indonesians goes by one name.

The tremors were felt as far away as Malaysia and Singapore.

Indonesia sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, causing it to experience frequent earthquakes.

In 2004, a 9.1-magnitude quake struck the coast of Sumatra and triggered a tsunami that killed 220,000 people throughout the region, including about 170,000 in Indonesia. AFP TIRE FIRE. Palestinian protesters burn tires during clashes with Israeli security forces following a demonstration against settlements in the village of Beita in the occupied West Bank, on February 25. AFP

OIL... we cannot afford another war, war is a great persecution in the whole world,” he added.

A team from the Philippine Embassy in Warsaw, which holds jurisdiction over Ukraine, set up a base in Lviv to facilitate the repatriation of Filipino nationals via a humanitarian corridor established between Philippine authorities and Poland.

Lviv is around 70 kilometers away from the Polish-Ukrainian border and is the main exit point for Filipinos arriving from the capital.

Meanwhile, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said Friday the alliance was deploying its rapid response force for the first time ever to bolster defenses in the face of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

“It is still a fluid situation. What we have seen is that the Ukrainian forces are fighting bravely and are actually able to inflict damage on the invading Russian forces,” Stoltenberg said after a video summit of NATO leaders. (See full story on manilastandard.net)

the outlook of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting CountriesInternational Energy Agency (OPECIEA) of a supply shortage of one million barrels per day to give hope of ending the spiral in oil prices.

“We can’t do anything about the one-million-barrel shortage because OPEC sticks to its output of 400,000 barrels each day per month,” he said,

DOH:...

National Capital Region, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, the Cordillera Autonomous Region, the Ilocos Region, and Cagayan Valley could be placed under the lowest quarantine level.

Cabotaje said Metro Manila has fully vaccinated over 100 percent of its target residents, noting that a relatively high vaccination rate during the Omicron surge last month was also the reason why its health care capacity was not really stretched.

“Our fully-vaccinated coverage in NCR is at 100 percent… while there were more patients (during the Omicron surge), our health care

China vows new coop with Nokor

SEOUL—China’s President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of cooperation between Beijing and Pyongyang in an unspecified “new situation”, North Korea’s state media reported Saturday.

North Korea, officially known as the DPRK, carried out an unprecedented seven weapon tests in January -- including its most powerful missile since 2017 -- with negotiations with the United States at a standstill.

It paused testing during the Beijing Winter Olympics, with analysts saying the decision could have been made out of deference to China.

Beijing is Pyongyang’s most important ally and economic benefactor, their relationship forged in the bloodshed of the Korean War in the 1950s.

In his message to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Xi said Beijing was ready to “develop the China-DPRK relations of friendship and cooperation” under a “new situation”, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported.

KCNA did not further elaborate on what the “new situation” entailed.

North Korea is reeling economically from a self-imposed coronavirus blockade and restarted cross-border trade with Beijing last month.

China accounts for more than 90 percent of the isolated country’s bilateral trade.

Pyongyang is under multiple sets of international sanctions over its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.

But regardless, it has warned it could abandon its selfimposed moratorium and resume testing intercontinental ballistic missiles or nuclear weapons.

Some experts have warned that with the eyes of the world focused on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, North Korea might take the opportunity to test-fire long-range missiles. AFP

Sri Lanka energy, fuel crisis worsens

COLOMBO— One of Sri Lanka’s biggest fuel suppliers put up its prices by as much as 12 percent on Saturday, as the cash-strapped island’s energy crisis worsened.

Lanka IOC, a fuel retailer which accounts for a third of the market, said it was increasing prices for diesel -- commonly used by public transport -- by 12 percent, and petrol up 11 percent.

The increases came after a seven percent price rise three weeks ago and will add to the upward pressure on inflation, already at a record high.

The island is in the grips of an economic crisis after the tourism sector, a key foreign-exchange earner, collapsed in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The government imposed a broad import ban in March 2020 in an effort to save foreign currency.

The country is now suffering widespread shortages, including fuel, electricity, automotive parts and cement, with supermarkets forced to ration staple foods including rice, sugar and milk powder.

The shortages pushed food inflation to 25 percent last month with overall inflation at 16.8 percent.

There was no immediate energy price revision by the state-run Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC), but most of its pumps have been out of fuel for days.

Energy minister Udaya Gammanpila announced this week that he expected fuel shortages to ease in “days” but warned that a sharp price increase was necessary to retain the viability of the loss-making CPC. Gammanpila said the CPC continued to haemorrhage cash and was already carrying debts exceeding $3.5 billion. The CPC loss for last year was $450 million, he added.

“Earlier, we were short of dollars to import oil. Now we don’t have the rupees to buy the dollars,” Gammanpila said.

Several thermal power stations, meanwhile, have closed with the electricity utility extending daily power cuts to fiveand-half-hours a day from Friday. AFP

as DOE is still pushing for the suspension of the excise tax on petroleum.

The technical working group under the House committee on ways and means has already drafted a position to suspend excise taxes, Abad said.

“The total excise tax for gasoline is P10, diesel P6, and LPG P3. These are the maximum amounts that can be temporarily suspended… subject to full discretion of Congress,” he added.

Trade Undersecretary Ruth Castelo

system (in Metro Manila) was not overloaded,” the official explained.

Malacañang earlier said that areas can shift to Alert Level 1 if they meet the following: Low to minimal risk case classification; total bed utilization rate of less than 50 percent; full vaccination of 70 percent of its target population (denominator is 80 percent of its total population); and full vaccination of 80 percent of its target population in the elderly (denominator is 85 percent of its population).

Restrictions in establishments and public transport will be removed under the lowest quarantine level, which is considered the blueprint for the “new normal.”

said Russia’s invasion of Ukraine would cause oil prices to go up but added this can be cushioned by a TRAIN Law mechanism that would suspend excise taxes if oil prices surpassed $80 a barrel.

The Department of Finance earlier thumbed down proposals to suspend the collection of excise taxes on petroleum products, saying it could impact the budget for pandemic recovery measures.

BELLO...

the most bellicose among the seven VP candidates in the debate held at the University of Santo Tomas auditorium. He called out Duterte for her absence and grilled Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III and Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan’s resolve to help small businesses amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The trio also got heated on a discussion on foreign policy, as Bello, the former Akbayan party-list congressman, accosted Sotto and Pangilinan for their proposed policies that supposedly lean toward relationships with bigger nations. (See full story on manilastandard.net)

FEBRUARY 27, 2022

Karilagan Stevia Farm Café

Karilagan’s heritage menu

Bocaue’s stevia farm spawns a high-end café A

high-end café built amid a stevia farm in Bocaue, Bulacan recently opened to treat couples and families to a new dining experience.

Celebrity moms share tips

on how to keep babies happy

By Othel V. Campos CELEBRITY moms Iya Arellano and Neri Miranda virtually bonded with many “madiskarte moms” on a virtual tetea-tete, sharing caring tips for babies, toddlers and kids in an event organized by popular baby care brand Babyflo.

Babyflo brand manager Rachel Encico highlighted the importance of using trusted brands for children’s wellbeing and cosmetic needs. The brand recently came up with a new and better pro-kids packaging that aims immerse children more into a fun-filled daily routine with Babyflo products.

“Babyflo always believes in happy babyhood. With our new products and with our new labels designed with very cute animal images, we’re hoping to make playtime and bath time fun for our babies and kids,” she said at the virtual event “Saya ng Alagang Babyflo”.

Encico said the brand believes in creating meaningful connections with kids and babies, alike, using Babyflo products.

Certified “madiskarteng moms” Mommy Iya and Mommy Neri have always been BabyFlo moms, for a number of reasons. First, Babyflow products, aside from being hygienic, also have hypoallergenic products fit for

the most sensitive of kids with non-comodogenic products which are the best care for Iya Arellano hyper-sensitive newborn babies.

Second, Babyflo products are among the most-affordable, quality baby care and children care products in the market.

“Bath time is a tricky activity “Not especially for babies and toddlers. We o n l y have to be sure that we’re using the d o our kids use right shampoo, the no-tears formula baby care toiletries, but adults in our for our kids, so bath time need not be home came to love Babyflo products a ‘crying time’ and the kids will not be especially the body wash. Even my traumatized if we use the right shampoo husband uses the shampoo and body for them,” said Mommy Iya. wash to clean his face. I just learned She said that with three kids and that there are many uses for body another baby coming, it sure is a good wash,” she said. time to bond while pampering with One of her personal favorites is the baby care products that are trusted for Babyflo petroleum jelly, which is not decades. only effective in preventing diaper rash Her eldest, Primo, is growing up in babies, but equally therapeutic for responsible enough to take care of his sore, chapped and dry skin, especially personal hygiene from being a “Babyflo the hands and feet.

Baby.”

Both celebrity moms agreed that Madiskarte mom Mommy Neri is also while the pandemic has restricted the very particular when it comes to her movements of their children to the children’s pampering needs. She makes confines of their homes, bonding over sure that all the baby care cosmetics bath or simply sporting fresh cologne she uses on her kids are clinically- scents inside their houses makes living tested—from shampoo, body oil and in pandemic a time well-spent for the lotion to powder and cologne. family.

Globe taps AWS to transform PH businesses

Housing investment yields 28% in just a year

By Darwin G. Amojelar GLOBE Telecom Inc. through cloud company Cascadeohas teamed up with US-based Amazon Web Servies to help digitally transform Philippine businesses through cloud technology.

“The collaboration between AWS and Globe is a very big milestone for Filipino corporations as they continue on their journey towards transforming their legacy infrastructure into the Cloud,” said Globe president and chief executive Ernest Cu. “Being the first in the Philippines to enter this agreement with AWS supports Globe’s vision of empowering Filipino enterprises by bringing them the best of digital technology to catapult their businesses to new heights,” Cu said.

Cu noted that many companies have not taken advantage of the Cloud’s numerous benefits. The Cloud allows vast amounts of programs and data to be stored and accessed via the internet instead of physical servers.

AWS was instrumental in Globe’s digital journey almost a decade ago. This prompted Globe to offer the same experience to corporate clients so they too can increase operational efficiency, reduce costs and improve agility.

Globe’s acquisition of Cascadeo in November 2020 further helped the company improve its cloud-based services.

Cascadeo is one of the global leaders in cloud consulting, with particular expertise on AWS. Conor McNamara, managing director of AWS ASEAN, said it is important for them to have a vibrant partner community in every country they operate in.

Customers describe the food, service and ambiance at Karilagan Stevia Farm Café as exceptional. Stevia leaves, one of the healthiest sources of sweeteners in the world and grown inside the farm, are also used as ingredients or flavorings to some of the café’s offerings.

The café consists of a main restaurant, with a heritage home design that provides ample indoor and outdoor dining spaces set in a beautiful landscape. It is complemented by a garden pavilion and another events venue that can accommodate hundreds of people. The café and events venue occupies about 1,700 square meters of dining areas, garden, lawn and cobblestone.

It is located in a three-hectare compound that also includes a stevia farm and production facilities of Glorious Industrial and Development Corp., the company behind Sweet & Fit Stevia and Glorious Blend Coffee Mix and Chocolate Mix. The café is owned by Maura De Leon, the founder of GIDC and dubbed as the Stevia Queen of the Philippines. She is the first Filipino grower and manufacturer of stevia—a plant belonging to the sunflower family that was first cultivated in Paraguay and is now preferred as a healthier alternative to sugar. It is especially helpful to diabetics and those suffering from acid reflux.

Rocky Espiridion, the new manager of Karilagan Café, says that aside from enjoying sumptuous meals, guests can also tour the stevia farm inside the compound and can pick and sample fresh stevia leaves.

In the week around Valentine’s Day, the café was fully booked, with guests coming from Bulacan, Metro Manila and other areas, he says.

“Dining is strictly by reservation,” says Espiridion, to highlight the café’s compliance with health protocols and sense of exclusivity.

Guests were treated to a five-course meal for P1,000 per head, with wine being optional and for additional cost. The café also takes pride of its own sweet bread and other concoctions such as zero-calorie deserts using stevia.

Guests can also book an overnight stay at a specially-designed cabin for P2,500.

Espiridion says to expand the café’s offerings, they launched a heritage menu on Feb. 25 to reflect the place’s heritage architectural design.

The café is near the Tambubong exit of North Luzon Expressway in Bocaue. It is open every day, except Mondays when it undergoes general cleaning and sanitation activities. Espiridion advises guests to make reservations first through the café’s Facebook page where they can find the contact details. Roderick T. dela Cruz

BRIA’s strategic locations, translate into long-term stability and consistency.

PROPERTY investments continue to give value over time, proof that real estate is a fine-performing asset class that rides out crises and economic cycles.

Bria Homes is one trusted property developer that offers spacious and well-designed contemporary homes in over 50 towns and cities.

Despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic, Bria Homes provide resi-

dential properties that continue to create value for homebuyers and investors.

From each individual house’s cleverly laid-out living spaces to the residential community’s recreational amenities and security features, Bria Homes serves not only Filipinos’ basic need for shelter but also their aspirations for a stable future.

Bria Magalang in Pampanga is one such community. Touting proximity to both Mabalacat, Pampanga and Concepcion, Tarlac, the project offers affordable ready-for-occupancy houseand-lot packages.

Residents and investors at Bria Magalang will be happy to note that property values in the project appreciated by an impressive 28 percent. In just a single year, houses in Bria Magalang that

sold for P1.4 million per unit increased in value to P1.8 million.

Bria Homes in Magalang features high-quality recreational amenities that spur residents to forge strong and wholesome community ties. These include multipurpose halls, covered courts, children’s playgrounds and wide-open green spaces. Safety is also a top priority as the community is secured by guarded entrances and exits, 24/7 CCTV coverage and solar lighting at night.

As Bria aims to provide the best quality of life for Filipinos, its communities boast of Internet-ready homes and digital access to an efficient property management team. Homeowners are also urged to avail of digital services such as cashless transactions via e-wallets and

online payments through partner banks.

Bria Homes division head Eduardo Aguilar says investing in a Bria property not only ensures significant financial security for prospective buyers but also offers emotional security because for all Filipinos, a beautiful, well-built home is their safe haven as they pursue their life goals.

Aguilar encourages buyers with a keen financial eye to put their trust in Bria Homes. “Bria has been a reliable name in real estate for decades now,” he says. “Year on year, we continue to expand our property portfolio and improve our services, which means greater value for every consumer moving forward. We invite you to invest in a Bria Home now and look forward to rewarding financial returns in the years to come.”

Study reveals rising employee attrition rate in PH Employee safety is the number one priority of the present workforce.

A SURVEY conducted by Filipino software as a service company Sprout solutions found that the Philippines logged an increase in attrition rate across all industries.

“The average voluntary attrition rate in 2020 was 1.31 percent. In 2021, it rose to 2.27 percent, a 73-percent increase in average voluntary attrition across different industries. That’s almost double,” said Sprout Solutions chief product officer Kislay Chandra.

Various factors can influence an employee’s decision to resign. The study revealed some of the reasons behind the spike in attrition like abrupt changes in the working setup, a lack of work-life balance and uncertainty over the pandemic.

These have taken a toll on some employees, especially on their mental health. Management decisions such as lay-offs, salary cuts and other cost-cutting measures also had a role to play.

The pandemic also led people to assess their current situations, giving them more time to think

about what they truly wanted. “Some were encouraged to pursue their dream jobs, while others had other plans like being a stay-at-home parent,” said Sprout chief people and customer officer Arlene De Castro.

Respondents of the study cited safety reasons for leaving their jobs. Some workers are still concerned about the virus and their health, especially if their workplace plans to return to on-site work.

According to the study, the top industries most affected by the changing environment are professional, scientific and technical services industry with increased attrition rate of 274 percent, while the construction industry posted 120 percent.

The arts, entertainment and recreation industry increased by 207 percent, and the water supply, sewerage, waste management and remediation activities industry increased by 185 percent, while the information and communication industry experienced a 117.14-percent increase.

Othel V. Campos

FEBRUARY 27, 2022

Pinoy tributes

for Yuka never stop Yuka Saso holds her U.S. Open trophy during her visit at Luneta where he paid tribute to national hero Jose Rizal. (From Pilipinas Golf Tour)

D

ESPITE Yuka Saso’s preference for a Japanese passport instead of the Philippines, the Filipinos’ high regard for the current U.S. Open golf champion never wavered a bit.

Time and again, she has always repeated that she will always be proud to be a Filipino, and she will forever be a Filipino.

She was born in the Philippines, she speaks the language fluently and she loves anything about Filipino.

For that, the entire country, including the Palace has expressed its wholehearted support to the Filipina-Japanse golfing phenom.

Executive Secretary Salvador Medildea delivered Malacanang’s message of support in all his future endeavors during a recent event at the Philippine Postal Corporation (Post Office) in Lawton, Manila.

Medildea commended Saso for her U.S. Open conquest and for making golf alive again in the country.

Medildea was a guest of honor when the Post Office honored Yuka with commemorative stamps to celebrate her U.S. Open victory. An avid golfer himself, Medildea has been aware of Saso’s achievements in the local scene as a youngster.

At an early age, she has actively represented the Philippines in golf tournaments.

In 2014, Yuka won the Visayas

Regional Amateur and Alex Montelibano Memorial Tournaments as well as the Sabah International Juniors Masters. Two years later, she won the gold in the World Juniors Girls Championship.

Then in 2028, she won two gold medals in the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia at 17 years old.

For her feats, including the U.S. Open last year, she earned praises from her fellow Filipino athletes like volleyball superstar Alyssa Valdez, who wants Yuka to teach her how to play golf, and even boxing legend Manny Pacquiao.

The now 20-year-old Saso, who is in the country for a two-week visit, will also be honored by the country’s sportswriting fraternity, the Philippine Sportswriters Association during its Annual Awards on March 14 at the Diamond Hotel for lifting Philippine sports on the world stage.

Aside from touching base with her relatives and friends, Yuka admitted that it is still best to train here in the Philippines for his upcoming tournaments. She specifically mentioned Wack Wack Golf as her home fairway and favorite.

To acclimatize with the weather in Southeast Asia, she used the break to come home and prepare for the Women’s World Championship on 3-6 March at Sentosa’s Tanjong course in Singapore and the Honda LPGA Thailand on 10-13 March in Pattaya’s Old course in Chonburi.

“I think there is some advantage when it comes to time – more or less, jet lag compared to those players coming from the United States,” she said.

Yuka admitted missing everything Pinoy—food, friends, golf courses, former teammates, and stints with

Yuka Saso is assisted by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea (left) and Postmaster Norman Fulgencio in unveiling the commemorative stamps in her honor. (From PHLPost)

the national squad and her beloved grandmother in Bulacan.

She loves everything Pinoy and that choosing a Japanese passport was a strategy to further advance her budding pro golf career “Time management is very important for us athletes,” she said. “And having a Japanese passport makes our – as a team, time management easier because we travel a lot.”

She was referring to her and her team’s decision to switch citizenship late last year, a move that left her with the Japanese flag in all her tournaments starting last month— and left some of her Filipino fans a bit downcast.

She, however, reiterated her position with regards to the issue for the nth time.

“The main reason in choosing Japanese citizenship is the passport (which) I will use to travel. But first.

I’m super proud of being half-Japa-

Sportscaster Boom Gonzales relives wonderful NBA moments SO, over the years, you’ve got yourself an album filled with old school NBA trading cards, a framed photo of the Black Mamba standing next to a jeepney from his 1998 visit in Manila, and a premium account on NBA League Pass — the NBA’s premium live game subscription service through PLDT Home Fiber.

Sportscaster Boom Gonzalez shared his fanboy story and the opportunities and living a sports fan’s dream to be a sportscaster covering the National Basketball Association and sharing the stories of its biggest superstars.

Since he started his broadcasting career in 1999, Boom has had the chance to get up close and personal with many of these NBA stars — dining with them, sharing jokes with them, and even getting a follow-back from an NBA coach on social media.

“As a fan, to witness the games live, the championships, the winning moments, the winning shots, the All-Star Games, and the NBA finals — the whole thing! I could not have written a better script about this,” Boom says. “Everything that has happened to me since I began covering the NBA has been like a dream that keeps coming true. It always blows my mind that I have been able to experience all that.”

Sports fan to sportscaster Boom’s love affair with the NBA started at a young age, while bonding with his dad on the couch like other sports-loving father-and-son pairs would.

“My dad and I made sure we’d catch one or two games a week on TV. We enjoyed watching sports at home but basketball — and the NBA, specifically — was the biggest deal for both of us,” he recalls, nostalgic. “Even after my dad’s passing, later on, I continued watching and following the NBA. But never in all those years did I imagine myself working with the league or being sent to the NBA.” Growing up in the Bulls era with Michael Jordan as his hero, Boom, as a kid, wanted nothing more than to play.

But as fate would have it, he treaded a slightly different path that he had no clue would still and ultimately lead him to the world of sports. The NBA became the highlight of that destination.

Boom Gonzales with Lakers stars Lebron James and the late Kobe Bryant during their past visits in the Philipines.

While still in college majoring in 5.2 seconds left on the clock. broadcasting, Boom started doing That shot ultimately allowed Miami to radio work. win Game 6 in overtime and forced a In his fourth year, he decided to get Game 7. The Heat eventually won the into TV work, and soon after graduaduel, for its third title and its second tion, he got his first TV job as a correstraight one that time. spondent on the now-defunct cable “Before the shot, we saw some sports show Gameplan. He then landpeople starting to walk toward the exits ed a sportscasting job at the PBA’s of The American Airlines Arena (the junior edition, the Philippine Basketball venue of the match) already, thinking League, before finally making it to the it was already over. We were already big league. planning our flights back to Manila or On his second year at the PBA, at least we had started talking about Boom took an offer from ABS-CBN it already,” Boom recalls. “Then, ‘The Sports to cover the UAAP — the counShot’ happened and the whole place try’s biggest collegiate league. His exploded! And Miami eventually won career has since gone on a fast break, that game and the series because of seeing him do commentaries on more that moment.” local sports and lifestyle shows. He Living the dream finally got to host his very own TV show Boom’s palpable level of profession– GAMEDAY with Boom Gonzalez — alism and love of the games combined which ran from 2009 to 2014. made him a favorite and reliable sports A shot at the NBA figure among Filipino fans. It has since Yet one of the most pivotal moments made him a top-of-mind personality early in Boom’s career was when he among outfits and brands, too, which got to host for the Kobe Bryant tours then tapped him to host and interview back in 2007, 2008, and 2010, courtethe likes of LeBron James and the sy of an international sports brand that late Kobe Bryant flown in for exclusive brought the basketball superstar to the events.

Philippines.

While he already has a lifetime’s This launched Boom’s sportscasting worth of memories covering the league, career further, leading him to more opBoom says he would never pass up the portunities to be among NBA’s greats chance to cover the games again if it later on. comes his way. He’s still very much a Boom finally had his first chance to fanboy at heart, he admits. cover the NBA in 2011 – and would “Every time I was sent to the NBA, constantly be sent by his then-network I thought of it as my last because you twice a year for sportscasting duties never really knew when it was going to until 2018. happen again. It’s been an incredible Atop his list of most unforgettable journey. Everything has been so unexcoverages? Game 6 of the 2013 NBA pected, bigger than anything I’ve ever Finals, when Miami Heat’s Ray Allen dreamed of. The things that I got to do made a game-tying three-pointer and learned, the people I got to meet against the San Antonio Spurs with just — it’s mind-blowing, honestly.”

nese, half-Filipino, and that will never change,” said the ICTSI-backed ace. “ In fact, she attributes her remarkable positive approach to any task, to any challenge to the Filipinos’ traits.

Pinoy traits

“Being positive, making the most of the difficult situations,” she said.

“And I missed the food, my friends, the golf courses, and my lola.”

After serving the national team, the last in the Asian Games where she steered the Phl to a two-gold sweep in Jakarta in 2018, Saso left the country in late 2019 in pursuit of a dream, which actually took a misstep when she fell short of her bid in the LPGA Q-Series.

But that setback only motivated her to get better, trying her luck instead, on the Japan tour where she made quite an impression, winning back-to-back championships in her first three tournaments and posting six other Top 10 finishes in her

rookie season.

That boosted her world ranking to No. 46, paving the way for a number of invites to top-notch LPGA events, including the US Women’s Open where she placed tied for 13th in her first crack in the world’s premier championship in 2020.

On her second try, she won it via playoff over Japan’s Nasa Hataoka, virtually changing her career, and life, forever.

She’s now on her fifth year as an LPGA member and topping that by a major win and a dream meeting with idol Rory McIlroy.

Saso reached as high as No. 5 in the world ranking last October before dropping to No. 8 and then moving a notch higher heading to the resumption of the LPGA Tour next month.

Stil,l a lot of mountains to conquer for Saso, and she’s not slowing down.

Dela Cruz resets own PH mark to kick off PSI Nat’l Open swimfest THANYA dela Cruz reset her own national record in the women’s 50-meter breastroke to highlight a superb sweep of her two events at the start Friday afternoon of the 2022 Philippine Swimming Inc. National Open at the newly-renovated Rizal Memorial pool.

Carrying the colors of the Ayala Harpoons Swim Club, Dela Cruz easily ruled her pet event of with a time of 32.49 seconds, besting her previous national mark of 32.89 seconds in the Philippine Swimming Selection last Oct. 22 at the New Clark City Aquatic Center in Capas, Tarlac.

Shairrine Floriano of the Antipolo Gems Sea Scorpions placed a distant second (35.49) while AHSC’s Sofia Annika Margare Isip placed third (36.44) in the meet supported by the Philippine Sports Commission and TYR swimming gear.

In a result that took her by surprise, the 19-year-old pride of Marikina City blasted out of the blocks and surged in the last five meters to rule the women’s 50-meter freestyle in 27.95 seconds, nipping Best Paranaque’s Amina Isabelle Mondonedo (28.72). Tarlac Marko Sharks SC’s Trixie Ortiguera was third (29.30).

“While I was expecting to win the 50-meter breastroke, the win in the 50-meter freestyle was a pleasant surprise because it was just an added event for me,” said Delacruz, 19, who graduated from San Lorenzo High School, after her twin wins.

She was hoping to add a third triumph in the women’s 100-meter breastroke yesterday in the swimming meet serving as tryouts for locallybased national team hopefuls for the 31st Vietnam Southeast Asian Games in May. Former Palarong Pambansa standout Jasmine Mojdeh of Best Main was among the opening-day victors, winning a down-the-wire thriller in the women’s 100-meter butterfly event in a time of 1:03.89 over veteran Kirsten Chloe, who settled for runner-up honors (1:04.10). Rising Atlantis SC’s Camille Buico finished a close third (1:04.20).

All Star Swim Club’s Xiandi Chua, a 2019 SEA Games bronze medalist, worked just hard enough in winning the women’s 200-meter individual medley in 2:23.31 while ex-Palaro ace Miguel Barreto of Ayala Harpoons SC took the men’s 200-meter IM race (2:13.97).

Barreto matched Delacruz’s victorious double in topping the men’s 400-meter freestyle, clocking 4:13.08, while Daos took the distaff side (4:37.99).

Both swimming for the Quezon City Buccaneers SC, Armand Pierre Chan and Mishka Sy swept the men’s and women’s 100-meter backstroke in times of 58.80 and 1:08.91, respectively.

Meanwhile, PSI President Lani Velasco was grateful for the PSC board led by Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez in the sprucing up the historic Rizal Memorial pool in time for the PSI National Open swimfest.

“If I am right, this is the first time in decades that this pool has undergone a major renovation, which would not have been possible without the support and assistance of the PSC,” Velasco noted.

“This is such a transformative gift by the PSC to our swimmers and the swimming community! We appreciate the PSC’s strong message of support,” she added of the major facelift of the RMSC swimming pool that will provide an ideal venue for local swimmers within Metro Manila.

Life Editor: Nickie Wang

FEBRUARY 27, 2022

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

A vision of retro pop STARRING in his first campaign for the Filipinogrown brand, Song Kang sports Penshoppe’s newest Retro Pop collection - a line of retrothemed classic pieces perfect for the everyday summer living lifestyle.

On why Song Kang is the perfect Penshoppe ambassador, Penshoppe Group’s Vice President for Brand Management Jeff Bascon says, “Song Kang’s charismatic energy complements Penshoppe‘s personality as a brand. Song Kang is a great addition to Team Penshoppe, and we are excited for fans to see more of him through our campaigns in the coming days.”

In an exclusive interview with Penshoppe, Song Kang reveals that working with the brand has been “a unique and enjoyable experience.”

“I was able to try on various styles that I like and introduce them to my Filipino fans. I hope that this will be an opportunity for many people to find joy in fashion while trying new styles with me and Penshoppe.”

As an enthusiast for casual styles, hisrole as an ambassador of was an undeniably perfect fit. “My personal style is quite casual,” Song Kang explains. “Rather than dressing up, I prefer a more comfortable and trendy style. I’ve always been quite interested in fash-

ion, so I try to be attentive to new trends, which I think Penshoppe [can help me with].”

As to what he’s anticipating the most in his journey as the brand’s new ambassador, he says he is excited to be exposed to and experience the Filipino culture.

“I’m looking forward to experiencing the culture and style [that is different] from Korean fashion brands,” the Penshoppe ambassador enthused. “There is also the excitement of being Song Kang is the new face for Penshoppe able to try on similar yet new styles.”

Song Kang is hoping to visit the Philippines as to his Filipino fans: “I’m so grateful for all the love soon as all is well, but for now, he’s making do and support that my work has received all the with a heartfelt greeting and a lot of love to give way from the Philippines.

Habi-Nidus

by John Gabriel Espiritu

Reviews of books

by Filipino authors?

Get them right here

I

T’S been said many times that the Philippines has no reading culture, but I beg to differ. While reading may not be as prevalent here as in other countries, there is a huge population of Filipino readers NO SHELF CONTROL

BY JENNY ORTUOSTE of all ages who are interested in books, whether they buy them from a bookstore or book fair, download them as e-books, or read them online on sites such as Wattpad, Scribble Hub, and Royal Road.

It is their curiosity and hunger to been called “Tsundoku,” in reference learn more that I will attempt to satisfy, to those of us who not only have full at least in a little way, in this new book bookshelves but books piled on tables review and literary news column.

My deepest thanks go to Manila Standard publisher Rollie Estabillo for supporting this idea of mine, and to lifestyle editor Nickie Wang for his support.

The column title, “No Shelf Control,” was crowd-sourced and has the approval of the majority of my Facebook friends who I polled. It’s a nod to the intense eagerness readers have to get their hands on new books, whether or not they read them right away; just to have Different individuals in the country of all ages are them there on the shelf or in your interested in reading device is comforting, knowing you can access them in your own blessed time. and on the floor, spilling off furniture, This column could just as well have propping up other items, a veritable

sea of paper and ink containing the thoughts and ideas of the living and the dead, all for our leisurely consumption.

I have a stellar lineup of books both fiction and non-fiction for review to share with you, among them: I Was the President’s Mistress!!, Miguel Syjuco’s new book, soon to be released by Farrar, Straus and Giroux; Assembling Alice, a novel by poet Mookie Katigbak Lacuesta (Penguin Books, 2022), an interesting work of biofiction; White Lady, Black Christ by Charlson Ong (Milflores Publishing, 2021); The Sovereign Trickster: Death and Laughter in the Age of Duterte by University of Washington history professor Vicente L. Rafael (Duke University Press, 2022, reprinted by Ateneo de Manila University [ADMU] Press); The Revolution According to Raymundo Mata by Gina Apostol (Soho Press, Inc., 2021) – the review copy took a long time to reach me because of the pandemic; Arsenic and Adobo by Mia P. Manansala, the first in the Tita Rosie’s Kitchen mysteries (Berkley Prime Crime, 2021); and The Horseman’s Revolt and Other Horrors by George Deoso, a collection of horror stories set in the Philippines (UST Publishing House, 2020).

Also for review are translated works by Rogelio Sicat and Rowena Festin and Sophia Flor Perez, an anthology of short stories edited by Luna Sicat-Cleto, and the latest edition of Under the Stacks by lawyer-historian Saul Q. Hofileña, Jr.

* * * CONGRATULATIONS to the newly-installed board of trustees of the Book Development Association of the Philippines (BDAP).

Its new president, lawyer Andrea Pasion-Flores of Milflores Publishing, recently led a day-long planning to lay initiatives for a two-year term in the service of book development.

“We’re committed to work as hard as the previous board of trustees to help the industry recover from the devastating effects of the pandemic,” Pasion-Flores said.

The group’s other officers are Nida Ramirez of Avenida Books (VP for Internal), Paolo Herras of Komiket (VP for External), Jose Maria Policarpio of JTP Learning (Treasurer), and Honey de Peralta of the Representatives of Foreign Publishers in the PH (Auditor).

BDAP’s other trustees are Ani Rosa Almario (BDAP past president and trustee for Adarna House, Inc.), literature professor Dr. John Jack Wigley (trustee for the University of Santo Tomas Publishing House), Maria Karina Bolasco The new board of trustees of the Book Development Association (ADMU Press), Jose Paolo Sibal (Central Books Supply, Inc. of the Philippines (BDAP): (clockwise) Paolo Herras, Dr. John Jack and Phoenix Publishing, Inc.), Flornida Ramirez (19th Ave- Wigley, Jose Paolo Sibal, Honey de Peralta, Flornida Ramirez, Maria nida Publishing and Visprint Publishing), Gladys Doronila Karina Bolasco, Jose Maria Policarpio, Gladys Doronila, Anna Jhorie (OMF Literature), and Anna Jhorie Arciga (University of the Arciga, Andrea Pasion-Flores, and Ani Rosa Almario Philippines Press).

The organization’s members are publishing houses and lence in bookmaking.

BDAP is also part of the official Philippine delegation to university presses, and among their flagship events are the Manila International Book Fair, first held in 1980 and the the Frankfurt Book Fair, the world’s largest.

For comment and feedback, you may reach the author via country’s largest and longest-running bookselling event; and the Gintong Aklat awards, meant to recognize excel- Facebook and Twitter: @ DrJennyO

Student-artists shine at young designers summit YOUNG creators were recognized with major and special awards at the recently concluded 2021 Nippon Paint Asia Young Designer Awards (NYPDA) Philippines.

Themed Forward: Amplifying Empathy Through Design, NYPDA was first launched in 2008 as the Philippine

ture, history, tradition and resources.

Meanwhile, Mary Margareth Calvo, fellow Benilde Interior Design student, bagged Best Colour Choice, while Krizzie Marie Pacaro from the University of San Carlos took home the Best Green Innovation Award.

Benildeans Joey Mae Perez, Aliya Josianne Raymundo, Angelica Jane Reyes, and Winona Te likewise made it as top contenders for the Interior Design division.

DLS-CSB was hailed as the Best School/ University for Interior Design, Adallay Pavillion while University

by Mary Margareth Calvo of Santo Tomas was named as edition of the leading and prestigious the Best Supporting College/UniverAsia Young Designer Awards (AYDA) sity. with the common goal to motivate For the Architecture Category, Karinterior design and architecture stu- en Joy Robines from the University dents to be more innovative, creative, of Mindanao secured the Gold Award and socially involved in design imple- for her sustainable and reimagined mentation.

Tagum City Garden.

Moira Kayla Ramiro and Nuri Her adviser Architect Matias BarHong, De La Salle-College of Saint ing bagged the Best Mentor title.

Benilde (DLS-CSB) Interior Design StuBulacan State University’s Darwin dents, clinched the Gold and Silver Aquino finished with a Silver for his Awards, respectively.

Dubbed as Marahuyo Design Camp, Ramiro’s winning project proposed a refreshing and enlightening restorative environment that aimed to nurture Marahuyo Design Camp creativity and

by Moira Kayla Ramiro inspire, revive and support artistry. The design likewise earned regenerative aquaponic facility conthe People’s Choice Award. ceptualized to support the livelihood This victorious piece was made of the farming communities. under the guidance of Benilde InteNYPDA likewise recognized John rior Design instructor IDr. Candice Gabriel Espiritu, Benilde ArchitecArboleda, who was recognized as ture student, with the Best Green InBest Mentor. novation Award.

Hong’s Namnama Community Hub Fitzgerald Eyas of the Ateneo de was envisioned as a space to cultivate Davao University and Juan Paulo Aguidiscovery, learning and community lar of the Technological Institute of the livelihood. For the locals of Baler, it Philippines won the Best Colour Choice resembled a treasure house that in- and the People’s Choice, respectively. stilled and promoted their arts, culUniversity of Mindanao earned the Best College/University Award for Architecture, while Bulacan State University obtained the Best Supporting College/University Award.

The Gold awardees will represent the Philippines in the regional leg of the competition, where they will compete for the prestigious title of Asia Young Designer Namnama Community Hub of the Year with fellow

by Nuri Hong creators from other AYDA countries.

email: lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

FEBRUARY 27, 2022

End the love month

Julie Anne San Jose

with songs from the heart

G

MA Music and its sub-label GMA Playlist feature love in all forms and genres with the launch of multiple songs performed by their artists across various digital platforms.

First on the list is GMA International, as it pays homage to the Filipinos’ resilience and passion for their own country wherever they are in the world with “Stronger Together.” Masterfully performed by Julie Anne San Jose and the all-female vocal group XOXO, the song is also GMA Pinoy TV’s umbrella campaign for the year-round celebration of its 16th anniversary. The song is now avail-

able on music platforms worldwide.

On the other hand, Psalms David, XOXO, and Thea Astley celebrate GMA Artist Center’s new look and name this 2022 with Sparkle’s theme song “Let It Spark.” Sparkle is here to propel GMA Artist Center to even greater heights. The song was released last February 8.

GMA Music also features The Clash Season 4 finalists with “The Clash 4 Finalists Sing Originals.” The finalists showcase their singing prowess with “Bakit Mahal Pa Rin Kita” by The Clash Season 4 Grand Champion Mariane Osabel; “Umuwi Ka Na” by Vilmark Viray; “Make Your Dreams Come True” by Julie Serad; “Sigaw ng Puso” by Mauie Francisco; “Kampeon” by Rare Columna; and “Isang Taon” by Lovely Restituto.

On February 22, the music spotlight will be on the well-loved theme songs and soundtracks of top-rating shows in Your Kapuso Favorite Hits Original Backing Tracks, vol. 1. This album is a compilation of original minus-one versions for fans to sing along to their favorite Kapuso theme songs. These include “Our Love” for I Left My Heart In Sorsogon; “Pagmamahal Mo” for Legal Wives; “Munting Hiling” for The Penthouse; “More Than Before” for To Have and To Hold; “Kay Sarap Mong Mahalin” for Stories from the Heart: Loving Miss Bridgette; and “Ang Puso Kong Ito’y Sa’yo” for First Yaya.

Additional tracks on the album are “I Need To Know,” “Two of A Kind,” “Maghihintay,” “Going Crazy,” “Pusong Pinoy,” and “Magpakailanman.”

Meanwhile, listeners can also expect fresh music from GMA Playlist’s handpicked singers.

The sub-label of GMA Music promises tunes that will “capture the hearts of millennials and Generation Z fans who are craving for something hip and new.

The soundtracks of Stories from the Heart: The End of Us “Pwede Ba” by Lyra Micolob of XOXO and “Vow” by Brent Valdez are now available for streaming.

Debuting as well this month is the soundtrack of GMA AfterJillian Ward

Tiktok sensation Esnyr parodies iconic film scenes in new online show between Donny ABS-CBN treats and Belle and a fun viewers to back-tosalad-making chalback YouTube shows lenge with the rest with Star Cine-Mashup Presents: Esnyr, of the cast. where fans can relive Viewers, meansome of the most while, can get a iconic Star Cinema boost of positivity scenes with a hilariand much-needed ous twist, and new motivational quotes episodes of HIH every Sunday at Extras 2 with Don- Esnyr (center) parodies some of Star 7:00 p.m. in the allny Pangilinan and Cinema’s iconic scenes with a humor- new inspirational Belle Mariano. videos of “Happy ous twist Pill” on My Prayer Get a good laugh Channel on Youand enjoy TikTok sensation Esnyr Ranillo’s hilarious Tube.

Enjoy these “Made for YouTube” parodies of iconic Star Cinema movies and shows in Star Cine-Mashup Pres- shows which are available on ABSCBN’s various YouTube ents: Esnyr. The digital show prechannels. miered on February 24 on Star Cinema’s YouTube channel.

In the pilot episode, Esnyr reenacts the famous confrontation scene between Deib (Donny) and Maxpein (Belle) in He’s Into Her. Star Cinema’s YouTube channel also offers more He’s Into Her content in HIH Extras 2 every Monday at 7:00 p.m.. In the first two episodes, fans were treated to a ‘kilig’ truth or dare game

Belle Mariano (left) and Donny Pangilinan in ‘HIH Extras 2’

noon Prime’s Las Hermanas sang by its stellar main cast: “Nag-iisang Yakap” by Thea Tolentino; “Hanap Rin Ba?”

by Yasmien Kurdi; and “Wag Na Lang”

by Faith Da Silva.

Their singles are already available for streaming.

Prima Donnas theme song “Huwag Kang Susuko,” sang by The Clash Season 3 Grand Champion Jessica Villarubin was launched on February 22. Teen star Jillian Faith Da Silva Ward also showcases her melodious voice in “First Love Na Nga Ba?,” “Bukod Tangi,” and “Kaibigan.”

On February 25, Sparkle star Faith Da Silva also released her first single, “Sana Sabihin Mo Na Lang,” a song about holding on and letting go.

All-female group XOXO

Reggae star drops ‘Gifted’ album

The art for Koffee’s single titled ‘Pull Up’ AFTER months of speculation and a tantalizing hint from the recent single “West Indies,” Koffee has finally announced the release of her debut album to be released on March 25 on Columbia Records.

Having garnered attention with her 2019 global anthem “Toast” and subsequent EP Rapture, it’s hard to believe that Koffee is yet to release a full-length album - in the short time she’s been making music she’s become a pillar of the reggae and dancehall music community, radiating her message of hope and positivity from her home in Spanish Town, Jamaica to audiences around the world.

Prioritizing authenticity, Koffee created an album that transcends

its influences, creating an innovative and fresh body of work that is ready to push the genre forward.

To mark the news of Gifted, Koffee releases her brand new single “Pull Up.” Launched as Clara Amfo’s ‘Hottest Record’ on BBC Radio 1 and produced

by Afroswing pioneer Jae5, the track is accompanied by a KC Locke directed video that swaps the island setting of her previous video for West Indies (filmed on the cliffs of West End, Negril) for the less tropical location of a shipping yard in Manchester -

nonetheless, Koffee exudes joy as she speeds through the urban landscape, exclaiming what her audiences have known for a long time “I don’t play, you will never ever find another like me.”

The year 2022 will see Koffee taking her electrifying live show to stages across the globe including the recently announced Gifted Tour of the US as well her debut appearance at the Coachella festival in Palm Springs.

UK fans will be able to celebrate the album’s release with a number of intimate in-store shows starting at London’s EartH on the day of its release.

“Pull Up” is the latest musical statement from an artist that has reshaped, modernized, and revitalized reggae, bringing it to a whole new audience. It comes on the back of an incredible few years for the Spanish Town-born artist, who made history in 2020 by becoming the first female and youngest-ever artist to win the Best Reggae Album award at the GRAMMYS for her “Rapture” project.

Alongside a string of high-profile musical collaborations (including J Hus, Gunna, Daniel Caesar), Koffee also recently contributed to the soundtrack of 2021’s The Harder they Fall on Netflix.

‘Stranger Things’ season 4 details revealed NETFLIX has announced that Stranger Things will end with Season 5, and that the show’s fourth season will debut this summer in two parts.

In an open letter to fans, series creators the Duffer Brothers revealed when new episodes will debut on Netflix, and more news about the future of the worldwide hit.

According to the creators, after almost two years of filming, Stranger Things Season 4 will be twice the length of previous seasons and will be “bigger than ever.” As such, will come in two volumes. Volume 1 premieres May 27 while Volume 2 plays starting July 1.

Since its release in 2016, the global phenomenon has garnered over 65 award wins and 175 award nominations, including those from the Emmys, Golden Globes, Grammys, SAG, DGA, PGA, WGA, BAFTA, a Peabody Award, AFI Program of the Year, the People’s Choice Awards, MTV Movie & TV Awards, Teen Choice Awards, and many others.

The three-time Emmy Award Nominee for Best Drama is one of Netflix’s mostwatched titles, with Season 3 amassing 582 Million view hours ranking as the 2nd Most Popular English-language series in the Netflix Top 10, and Season 2 account-

ing for 427 Million view hours ranking at #10.

Stranger Things is produced by Monkey Massacre Productions & 21 Laps Entertainment. The Duffer Brothers serve as executive producers on the series, alongside Shawn Levy and Dan Cohen of 21 Laps Entertainment, and Iain Paterson.

In celebration of the return date, the creators unveiled the official Season 4 key art and four exciting new location posters to represent the four locations featured in this upcoming season.

The cast of ‘Stranger Things’ ‘Stranger Things’ season 4 promises to be “bigger than ever”

FEBRUARY 27, 2022

Pawsbook WE HAVE been encountering posts on dogs, cats, and other animals on Facebook that are eye-openers, or inspiring, or enlightening, or educational, or can make one feel good during a stressful day, or make one encouraged to help the poor souls among us.

Sunday Pets would like to share these notable posts of netizens through this space called Pawsbook. Desiree Carlos

What to do when dogs fight

Love beyond death

Livia Horvath posted this photo in Weird Pictures and Everything group page in Facebook last Feb. 11.

“Photographer Cecilie Thoresen was given this amateur photo by the owners of Timber, their recently departed dog, as they spread his ashes into a pond. They asked Cecilie to superimpose the image of Timber into the photo.

This is the result. ”

D

OGS do not fight for no reason. When they do fight, they can inflict serious harm to each other.

Injuries may even lead to death.

If you find yourself in a situation wherein you have to stop a dog fight, RESIST the instinct to jump in physically. This will put you at risk, said Jenna Stregowski in “Reasons Why Dogs Fight and How to Safely Stop It” in The Spruce Pets site.

Reasons dogs fight

Dogs fight due to several reasons, most of which are rooted in natural canine instincts.

There are even situations which can turn even the friendliest dog into a vicious fighter, said Stregowski.

These reasons include: 1. to protect one’s territory, specially when a new dog enters your place; 2. to protect its perceived pack (human and/ or dog), its food, or a prized possession; 3. overstimulation when a friendly play turns into a fight; 4. redirected aggression is common with dogs that are normally friendly or live together; and 5. “When one dog can not get something it wants or becomes overly frustrated, it may take it out on its best friend simply because it's the closest target. This may happen in a fenced yard when the aggressor can't reach a dog on the other side but can reach its canine family member, for instance,” Stregowski said.

6. sometimes some dogs don't get along.

“There may be something about the other dog that an aggressive dog may not like, whether it's the dog's personality, smell or other,” Stregowski noted.

How to stop a dogfight

Never put your hand or any part of your body near the dogs’ heads.

“Never physically get in the middle of two dogs fighting or try to grab their collars. If you put your hand (or any other body part) anywhere near the dogs' heads, you will be injured.”

Stregowski stressed.

“Don't be foolish enough to think that a dog won't bite its beloved owner, either. In the heat of a dogfight, your dog doesn't see who's intervening and will bite anything in its way. Don't underestimate your dog. It's not personal. Remember, if your dog is injured, it will need you to take care of it, and you can't do that if you have been injured in breaking up a fight,” she added.

1. Stay Calm Stay calm. Do not yell unless you are calling for help. Take a deep breath and focus on the task at hand. Tell others on the scene to do the same.

2. Clear the area Remove children from the area. Keep people away. If possible, only the dogs’ owners should be involved in breaking up the fight.

3. Spray the dogs down If available, spray water from a garden hose at the heads of the dogs. Aim for the eyes and nose of the more aggressive dog.

A bucket or spray bottle with water is less effective but is better than nothing if you do not have access to a hose.

Photo posted by Livia Horvath.

Finally, a forever loving home for a senior shelter dog

It is good to walk your dogs regularly so they can expend excess energy. This will prevent dog fights as they will not have enough energy o fight one another. Also, it is better to walk them together so that they get used to one another. This familiarity will also hopefully prevent dog fights.

Citronella spray like Spray Shield or vinegar spray in the face can break up a less-intense fight but not the worst fights, Stregowski said.

She encouraged dog owners to bring citronella spray with them.

“Dogs really dislike the smell and it could offer a brief distraction. In fact, many veterinary experts recommend citronella sprays over pepper spray. It may be just as effective and doesn't have potentially harmful effects. Pepper spray and CO2 fire extinguishers have been suggested but really should only be used as a last resort as they can cause damage to a dog's eyes, skin and mucous membranes not to mention potentially harm people nearby,” Stregowski said.

4. Make noise. Make a lot of noise Noise can distract dogs. “Air horns or the sound of a car horn may be jarring enough to snap fighting dogs out of it. This is less likely to work on intense fights, though. Shouting and screaming at the dogs rarely works and usually has the opposite effect of intensifying the fight,” Stregowski said.

5. Use some objects strategically Some objects can be used to break up a fight: a. A heavy blanket thrown over the dogs may momentarily break their focus and help end the fight. This will give you a chance to more safely separate the dogs. b. A long automatic umbrella can be opened between two fighting dogs. The handle should be long so that your hands are far away from the mouths of the dogs. c. Chairs and laundry basket can be put between the two dogs to separate them.

“At least the distraction may give the owners an opportunity to safely remove their dogs from the fight. However, like the many other commonly advised techniques, these don't usually work well in cases of serious fighting,” Stregowski said.

6. Physically intervene This is potentially the most dangerous if done incorrectly.

“Remember, you should never get in the middle of two fighting dogs and NEVER attempt to grab the collar or head of two fighting

dogs as you will get bit even by your own pet,” Stregowski said.

The Wheelbarrow Method

“Some experts, however, have discovered that there's a slightly safer way to separate fighting dogs and this is called the ‘wheelbarrow’ method. This method only works if two adults are available to intervene (the dogs' respective owners if possible). If there are more than two dogs involved, there should be one human per dog.

1. Each person should approach a dog slowly from behind. At the same time, each person should firmly grab hold of the back legs of their respective dog and walk backward (think of using a wheelbarrow). It's important that this is done at the same time for each dog. If one dog is on top of the other, the top dog should be pulled back first, and the bottom dog should be pulled back as soon as it stands up.

2. Staying far away from the other dog(s), quickly begin circling to one side. The idea is to force the dog to keep itself upright by following the circular path with its front paws. If you stop, the dog may be able to flip around and bite you.

3. Still walking backward in a circle, move the dog to an enclosure (ideally where it can no longer see the other dog or dogs). If no enclosure is near, continue the motion until the dog has calmed down enough for you to safely attach a leash,” Stregowski said.

Stregowski continued: “In cases where one or both dogs won't release their jaws, there are recommendations such as pressing on a dog's ribcage or using a special ‘bite stick’ like the blunt end of a broomstick in the jaws of the dog but these methods are best left to the professionals, may not work and can even worsen the situation.”

She stressed it is not good to kick or punch the dog in this situation. “Remember to never get violent with the dogs,” she said.

Do not do the wheelbarrow method when you are alone. You will just give undue advantage to the other dog whose legs you can not hold up.

But if one dog is seriously injured and the aggressor is on top, you may be able to get the dog on top through the wheelbarrow method, away from the incapacitated dog. But this is risky.

On February 20, Janice Ledesma Villanueva shared a post from Nature Chronicles a beautiful story on the adoption of a senior dog from a shelter.

"Yesterday I adopted the oldest, sickest, and sorest shelter dog. I'll never forget his eyes. When I went into the cage he didn't even bother to look, he knew I wouldn't even see him.

Curling around the corner He'd accepted his fate. The volunteer said to me many times... Are you sure this one?

Are you sure? YES! This is my dog. He opened the cage and 3 animals fell on me. I ran towards him, suddenly he looked at me as if he saw an angel... I hugged him and told him that now he'll be happy again. Then he sleeps in my lap... probably the first peaceful sleep he ever had.

Give it a life. Give it a hug. They need us.’

From a dad who saved a soul.”

Credit to Animal Alternative Therapy

Salute to a fighter

Bless this dog with more years to live. Love and hugs to a fighter doggo.

What to do after the fight

Be careful when giving treats to your dogs while they are together.

Make sure they are trained to wait for their turn. Give treats equally to your dogs. Some dogs tend to be impatient and /or jealous, and may start a dog fight.

Please do the following: 1. When the dogs are apart, keep them separated even if they seem calm.

2. If the dogs are not from the same household, let each dog go home or place each securely in a car.

3. If your dogs are involved, put them in separate rooms or, ideally, in their respective crates.

4. Check your dog for injuries, and contact the vet immediately even if the injuries seem minor.

Only a vet will know if there are damages to the dog which an untrained eye may not notice.

5. Start learning and reading about dogfights so you are prepared in the future. But cancel that of course.

“Prevention is ultimately the best way to eliminate fighting and that mean's being aware of your dog's cues and paying close attention to other dog's cues as well. Avoid putting your dog in situations where fights can happen. It's best to learn how to tell when a dogfight is coming and how to prevent one from happening in the first place,” Stregowski said.

“For instance, if you notice two dogs becoming overly aroused or showing signs of aggression or one dog is dominating another too much (e.g. pinning or rolling) during play, it's time to intervene. Stop the behavior and separate the dogs. Use distractions like treats and training to change the dynamic. Let the dogs cool off and consider preventing interactions among them in the future,” she added.

Screenshot from Woof Meow, a Facebook group.