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80% OF MUNICIPAL MAYORS BACKING BBM-SARA UNITEAM

RODY ISSUES ORDER ENSURING REFUGEE PROTECTION IN PH

NEWS / A4

NEWS / A3 VOL. XXXVI • NO. 21 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 • THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Rody okays P3-b fuel subsidy for drivers, farmers Pushes review of Oil Deregulation Law

SAFE ARRIVAL. Some 13 Filipinos from Ukraine have arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 in Pasay City from the Warsaw Chopin Airport in Poland accompanied by Foreign Affairs officials. They are part of the 40 evacuees who have left Kyiv for Lviv and crossed the border of Poland-Ukraine. Danny Pata

UN top court to hold genocide hearings over Russia invasion THE International Court of Justice said Tuesday it would hold genocide hearings on March 7 and 8 over the war in Ukraine, as fighting intensifies.

The Hague-based ICJ, the United Nations’ top court, will open the public hearings after Ukraine lodged a complaint with the court to order Russia to stop its invasion.

By Vito Barcelo, Alena Mae Flores and Maricel V. Cruz

P

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte approved the recommendations of the Department of Energy (DOE) to implement a P3 billion subsidy program -- the P2.5-B Pantawid Pasada, and P500 million fuel discount program for farmers and fishermen -- as crude surged past $113 a barrel in the world market on fears of the economic fallout from the Russian invasion of Ukraine..

Duterte also called on Congress to review the Oil Deregulation Law amid the weekly increases in pump prices.

Palace spokesman Karlo Nograles said they particularly wanted Congress to look at provisions that would compel oil companies to unbundle or detail what goes into the price per liter of fuel, set minimum inventory requirements and give the government powers to step in when there is a sharp rise or a prolonged increase in the prices of oil products.

He said the review on the Oil Dereg ulation Law was among the mediumterm measures agreed upon during a

Ukraine crisis intensifies as Russians gain ground RUSSIAN forces said they had captured a Ukrainian port on Wednesday as Russian and Ukrainian troops battled for another urban center and President Volodymyr Zelensky said Moscow wanted to “erase” his country.

As the conflict intensified further on the seventh day of the invasion, the

Ukraine on Wednesday invited the worried mothers of Russian troops captured on the battlefield to come and collect their sons, in an apparent attempt to embarrass Moscow.

“A decision has been taken to hand over captured Russian troops to their mothers if they come to collect them in Ukraine, in Kyiv,” the defense ministry said.

Russian army said it had taken control Russian paratroopers also landed of the Black Sea port of Kherson in in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-biggest southern Ukraine.

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DOH confident of handling surges under ‘new normal’ THE Department of Health (DOH) is “prepared for the worst case scenario” after the COVID-19 status of Metro Manila and 38 other areas was lowered

Teachers may be mandated to get vaxxed

By Willie Casas HEALTH Secretary Francisco Duque III said Wednesday the government is looking at the possibility of mandating teachers to get vaccinated against COVID-19 although the Department of Education said mandatory inoculation for their learners was not required although it was being encouraged.

This emerged amid the expansion phase of face-to-face classes and the deescalation of Metro Manila and 38 other areas nationwide to Alert Level 1.

“In fact in some of our IATF (Inter-Agency Task Force) meetings, [Education] Secretary Leonor Briones has been very, very frank Next page

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AFTER THE AIR STRIKE. Police officers examine the body of a passerby killed in yesterday’s airstrike that hit Kyiv’s main television tower on March 2, 2022. (Inset) A woman, who fled Ukraine, comforts a girl wrapped in a blanket after crossing the Moldova-Ukrainian border’s checkpoint near the town of Palanca. AFP

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By Willie Casas

“The hearings will be devoted to the request for the indication of provisional measures submitted by Ukraine,” the court said in a statement.

More than 660,000 people have already fled abroad, the UN refugee agency said, estimating that a million people are displaced within ex-Soviet

to Alert Level 1, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said Wednesday.

“Before we decided to de-escalate, we made an analysis of the capacity of the health care system of the country, regionally and locally,” Duque told

ANC’s Headstart.

“What we have observed during the worst of the surges, the Delta, we had high health care utilization and ICU bed utilization rate. Severe and critical cases were extraordinarily high but we

managed it,” he said.

The government has a transition plan into the new normal, which will be “finished hopefully mid-next week,” Duque said.

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Devotees ‘in heaven’ for Ash Wednesday ritual THOUSANDS of Filipinos flocked to churches to observe Ash Wednesday, with Catholic priests and nuns daubing their foreheads with a cross for the first time since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

Most COVID-19 restrictions were scrapped this week after a sharp drop in infections and increased vaccinations, allowing churches to pack their pews and physical contact to resume.

Devotees wearing masks began lining up outside Baclaran Church in Manila before dawn to receive the ash cross on their foreheads – a ritual that signals the beginning of Lent.

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FIRST TIME IN TWO YEARS.

Catholic faithfuls pray inside a chapel on the observance of Ash Wednesday at a church ground in Manila on March 2, 2022. AFP

3,663,920 866

50,827

56,504

53

3,556,589

1,622

(As of 4 PM, March 2)

Navy floating hospital eyed to aid OFWs

By Macon Ramos-Araneta THE head of the Senate labor committee is seeking more aid for COVID-infected overseas Filipino workers in Hong Kong and urging the government to send a fully-staffed Navy Next page

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News

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

SC asked: Reverse anti-terror ruling

By Rey E. Requejo

T

HE Supreme Court has been asked to reverse its December 7, 2021 decision that declared the Anti-Terrorism Act constitutional except for parts in two of its sections.

In a joint 71-page motion for reconsideration, 25 of the 37 petitioners appealed to the SC magistrates to reconsider its ruling, particularly pertinent provisions that they considered unconstitutional for being vague, overbroad, and failing to meet the strict scrutiny test.

The high court declared unconstitutional in ATA, which was enacted on July 3, 2020 and enforced starting July 18, 2020, the following sections: “The qualifier to the proviso in Section 4 of RA 11479, i.e., ‘… which are not in-

tended to cause death or serious physical harm to a person, to endanger a person’s life, or to create a serious risk to public safety’ by a vote of 12-3 is declared as unconstitutional for being overbroad and violative of freedom of expression.”

“The second method for designation in Section 25 paragraph 2 of RA 11479, i.e., ‘Request for designation by other jurisdictions or supranational jurisdictions may be adopted by the ATC (Anti-Terrorism Council) after determination that the proposed designee meets

Ukraine...

From A1

Rody...

From A1

city, triggering clashes in the streets, Ukrainian forces said.

Four people have been killed and another nine wounded during a shelling in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s emergencies services said.

“Four dead, nine injured,” the services said, citing preliminary information.

Kharkiv, a largely Russian-speaking city near the Russian border, has a population of around 1.4 million.

It has been a target for Russian forces since President Vladimir Putin launched an invasion of Ukraine last Thursday and which intensified on Tuesday.

Ukraine’s army said there were immediate clashes after Russian troops landed earlier in the day.

“Russian airborne troops landed in Kharkiv... and attacked a local hospital,” the army said in a statement on messaging app Telegram. “There is an ongoing fight between the invaders and the Ukrainians.”

Anton Gerashchenko, an adviser for Ukraine’s interior minister, was quoted in a statement on Telegram as saying that “practically, there are no areas left in Kharkiv where an artillery shell has not yet hit.”

The number of refugees fleeing the conflict in Ukraine has surged to nearly 836,000, United Nations figures showed Wednesday.

In all, 835,928 people have fled across the country’s borders, according to the website of UNHCR, the UN refugee agency.

The airborne operation came as US President Joe Biden branded Putin a “dictator,” warning the sanction campaign to cripple Russia’s economy would escalate and its oligarchs were being targeted.

In his first State of the Union address on Tuesday, US President Joe Biden warned the sanctions campaign to cripple Russia’s economy would escalate and its oligarchs were being targeted.

“A Russian dictator, invading a foreign country, has costs around the world,” Biden told lawmakers, promising “robust action to make sure the pain of our sanctions is targeted at Russia’s economy.”

Russian troops rolled into Ukraine last week to achieve Putin’s mission of overthrowing Zelensky’s proWestern government.

Russian defense ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said Russian forces were in “full control” of Kherson, a city with a population of 290,000 people.

Konashenkov said in televised remarks that public services and transport were operating as usual.

“The city is not experiencing shortages of food and essential goods,” he said.

He said talks were under way between the Russian army and local authorities on maintaining order, protecting the population and keeping public services functioning.

special meeting over which President Duterte presided.

Under the law, formally known as the Downstream Industry Deregulation Act, government control was removed to help oil companies become more competitive with their supply and pricing of petroleum products.

Other medium-term energy measures are the building of a strategic petroleum reserve, ensuring minimum inventory requirements and pushing energy conservation and efficiency.

Nograles said Duterte also approved recommendations from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to accelerate renewable energy adoption, support investments in utility-scale battery storage to maximize the use of renewable energy sources, and to support investments in modern storage facilities for oil and grains to increase the holding capacity of the private sector to help in strategic stockpiling.

During the special meeting, Duterte said the government will continue to talk with its existing partners and heighten negotiations with non-traditional partners to address threats to agricultural exports while improving the digital agricultural infrastructure and systems.

Meanwhile, the Palace said the Russian invasion of Ukraine had serious economic, trade, and human resource implications for the country and the people.

Nograles said Duterte offered assurances that mitigating measures and contingency plans will be put in place as part of the government’s pro-active response to Russia’s war in Ukraine.

“The Palace joins the country and the entire world in praying for an early and peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine,” Nograles said.

Nograles reiterated the position of the Philippines, “that war benefits no one, and that it exacts a tragic, bloody toll on the lives of innocent men, women, and children in the areas of conflict.”

Nograles said Duterte met with his Cabinet members on Tuesday night, along with the top officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philip-

Devotees...

From A1 Churches have in the past two years sprinkled it in people’s hair due to antiCOVID measures.

“I feel like I am in heaven,” Lydia Smith, 76, told AFP outside the church where several thousand of the faithful stood in long queues waiting their turn.

“I am really happy even if it’s very crowded. It’s like the joy of the church has returned.”

The Philippines is overwhelmingly Catholic, with some 80 percent of its people said to be believers.

Since early 2020 most devotees have been forced to follow church services

DOH...

From A1 “The virus is here to stay and we’ll have to learn to live with it. The question is will there be no surges in the future? No we cannot say that. There can still be surges but are we ready to manage [them],” he said.

Duque touted the country’s low number of deaths when asked for comment on the Philippines’ ranking in the Bloomberg COVID resilience study, which climbed to 50th from 53rd.

The Philippines logged 866 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, the lowest so far this year, bringing the total case count to 3,663,920, the DOH reported.

The positivity rate was at 4.7 percent, online and major religious festivals have been curtailed or cancelled due to strict social-distancing rules.

But Tuesday marked the beginning of the “new normal” in the national capital region and 38 other areas.

Most restrictions have been removed, allowing places of worship, restaurants and public transport to operate at full capacity.

Local church officials gave the green light for the “imposition of ashes on the forehead” to resume on Wednesday, but sprinkling the powdery residue in hair was still allowed.

“One of the tragedies of Covid-19 is it separated us,” said Father Victorino Cueto, the rector of Baclaran Church. AFP

the criteria for designation of UNSCR (United Nations Security Council Resolution) No. 1373’ is declared unconstitutional by a vote of 9-6.”

The tribunal held that “on the basis of the current petitions, all the other challenged provisions of RA 11479 are not unconstitutional.”

The petitioners appealed to the SC to reconsider its decision on the third paragraph of law’s Section 10 as they alleged that it is unconstitutional for being vague, overbroad, and for failing to meet the strict scrutiny test.

Another issue brought up by petitioners was Section 29 of the law on the power of the Anti-Terrorism Council.

The petitioners argued that the written authorization issued by ATC partakes of a warrant of arrest which the council has

no authority to issue since only judges can issue warrants of arrest.

“An executive warrant of arrest is void ab initio [void from the beginning], a usurpation which has no constitutional pedigree,” they said.

On detention of suspects, the petitioners told the SC that the prolonged detention of 14 days, extendible for another 10 days, is odious and oppressive.

A prolonged detention of an accused is fraught with dangers to security because the person might be tortured or coerced to confession, or it could lead to the manufacture of “evidence,” they said.

The petitioners also stressed that prolonged detention would deprive a suspect of his right to speedy disposition of his case, and forfeit his right to bail and other legal remedies.

pine National Police (PNP), and other high-ranking officials, to discuss possible scenarios and measures that can be taken if the war continues and escalates.

Duterte approved the recommendation of the country’s economic team to strengthen the domestic economy, stabilize food prices, provide social protection, and explore diplomatic channels to help resolve the conflict.

Nograles said Duterte has also agreed with the recommendations of the Department of Agriculture (DA) to boost local food production to ensure food stability in the Philippines.

The government aims to increase food production through its “Plant, Plant, Plant” Part Two program by increasing the rice buffer stock not less than 30 days; providing financial assistance to rice farmers; addressing price hikes in the cost of fertilizers by providing a fertilizer subsidy; and ensuring market access through bilateral discussions with fertilizer-producing countries.

Nograles said Duterte has also approved the DA’s recommendation to distribute fuel discount vouchers to farmers and fishermen to address rising fuel prices.

He added that the government will also intensify crop production, boost research on reducing feed prices, and provide logistical support to transport food from high-production provinces to cities.

Through the “Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita” program, the government will push the deployment of Kadiwa mobile vans or trucks and subsidies on the transportation cost of basic commodities.

Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi on Wednesday assured the public that the country had a sufficient supply of oil, but cautioned against the inevitability of domestic price spikes, reflecting high world oil prices.

“We are not lacking in supply given that we source our crude oil requirements primarily from the Middle East, and finished products from Asia-Pacific. However, the impact of the Ukraine crisis on international oil markets does have a direct effect on our prices. This is why we continue to appeal to everyone to observe energy efficiency and conservation measures during this critical period,” Cusi said during the virtual Kapihan sa Manila Bay Forum.

He said the ongoing war in Ukraine underscores the importance of attaining energy security and independence for a country like the Philippines.

“Our country, as an importer of petroleum products, is again at the mercy of global price movements. We must work towards decreasing our dependence on others for our energy needs,” he said.

Cusi said DOE is in constant coordination with oil companies for promotional programs that extend fuel discounts to the public transport sector.

He said the implementation of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board of the P2.5 billion “Pantawid Pasada Program” in the 2022 budget will help ease the burden of the transport sector.

The Energy chief said the government is also providing P500 million worth of fuel discounts to farmers and fishermen through the Department of Agriculture.

He said DOE has also proposed amendment of the Oil Deregulation Law to make the pricing of oil products more transparent and to allow the government to intervene during price spikes or prolonged periods of rising prices.

He said DOE can work with the private sector for the strategic reserve.

“We have completed the study and we are coordinating with DOF (Department of Finance) for the funding. We tapped PNOC (Philippine National Oil Co.) to do that project...As of now, we do not have storage facilities that are governmentowned, [so]we might have to work with the private sector to make use of their excess storage facilities,” he said.

In response to the request from the Palace, the House committee of ways and means proposed amendments to the Oil Deregulation Law. Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda, the panel’s chairman, said there were four components to his proposal: 1) creating a strategic petroleum reserve that the government could stock during periods of abnormally low prices; 2) unbundling of the retail prices; 3) requiring all fuel outlets to update any change in retail prices in a central government database for efficient monitoring; and 4) ensuring price transparency so that the consuming public can make informed choices about their purchases. With AFP

based on test results of samples from 23,738 people on Feb. 28.

There were 53 new fatalities reported, bringing the COVID-19 death toll to 56,504.

The DOH also reported 1,622 new recoveries, bringing the total number of recoveries to 3,556,589.

There were 50,827 active cases, of which 474 were asymptomatic; 45,862 were mild; 2,776 were moderate; 1,417 were severe; and 298 were critical.

Nationwide, 25 percent of ICU beds, 23 percent of isolation beds, 14 percent of ward beds, and 13 percent of ventilators, are in use.

In Metro Manila, 24 percent of ICU beds, 24 percent of isolation beds, 22 percent of ward beds, and 15 percent of ventilators, are in use.

Presidential candidate and Senator Panfilo Lacson on Tuesday had asked the DOH about its transition plan as part of his push for the Philippines to prepare for the shift from a pandemic to an endemic state.

As part of this transition, Duque said they already have a process for reviewing pricing for COVID-19 tests and would consider putting a cap on them.

“Those are what I would call the lowhanging fruits, that we should really provide our people with more affordable testing without sacrificing the quality of the results. It’s important that accuracy is on top of mind,” Duque said.

Duque added that they would also encourage local government units (LGUs) to follow the DOH in providing COVID-19 care kits to those infected with the virus in their respective areas.

Teachers...

From A1 about the problem, with teachers being against vaccination which makes this a big problem if they refuse to be inoculated,” Duque said.

Duque said more teachers now wanted to get themselves inoculated, noting that the vaccine hesitancy rate in the country had gone down to 8 percent.

“I think that’s a good indication or a sign that people already now increasingly believe in the protection that the vaccines provide and they can take advantage of this,” he said.

The resumption of face-to-face classes is now under its expanded phase.

To date, a total of 4,295 schools have started face-to-face classes while 6,213 schools are ready for implementation based on the criteria set by the concerned government agencies.

The DepEd implemented the progressive expansion of the in-person classes on February 22 upon President Rodrigo Duterte’s approval.

During the expansion phase, only vaccinated teachers may participate in the face-to-face classes, and vaccinated learners shall be “preferred” to participate.

As of February 28, there were about 736,000 kids aged five to 11 who received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccines, while there are 9.2 million for aged 12 to 17, Duque said.

UN...

From A1 Ukraine, which has a population of 44 million.

The UN estimates that up to 4 million refugees may need help in the coming months and 12 million more will need assistance within the country.

The ICJ, which is based in the Netherlands’ seat of government in The Hague, does not have a mandate to bring criminal charges against individual Russian leaders behind the invasion.

But it is the world’s top court for resolving legal complaints between states over alleged breaches of international law.

International Criminal Court prosecutor Karim Khan had already announced he was launching an investigation on the “situation in Ukraine” following Russia’s invasion.

“I am satisfied that there is a reasonable basis to believe that both alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity have been committed in Ukraine” since 2014, Khan said in a statement Monday.

Russia has defied international bans, boycotts and sanctions to press ahead with an offensive it says is aimed at defending Ukraine’s Russian speakers and toppling the leadership.

The United States trusts “the Court is taking into consideration the dire circumstances and rapidly unfolding events,” the State Department said in a statement Tuesday.

Spokesman Ned Price said Washington hopes the court “will act with utmost urgency on Ukraine’s request for provisional measures” in the hearing.

“Each day that Russia is unconstrained in its aggression is a day that brings more violence, suffering, death, and destruction in Ukraine,” he said.

After more than 100 countries spoke during two days of extraordinary debate, the UN General Assembly was poised to vote Wednesday on whether it will vigorously deplore Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and demand Moscow withdraw troops immediately.

The vote on the draft resolution is being touted by diplomats as a bellwether of democracy in a world where autocracy is on the rise in countries from Myanmar to Venezuela, and comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin’s forces bear down on Kyiv while terrified Ukrainians flee.

The resolution is non-binding, but -if it passes -- will serve as a powerful rebuke to Russia on the world stage and a marker of its isolation. The vote must reach a two-thirds threshold to pass.

Navy...

From A1 ship to accommodate Filipinos turned away from overwhelmed Hong Kong hospitals.

Sen. Joel Villanueva, citing the remittances of OFWs totalling P162 billion, urged that the 200,000-strong community of OFWs in Hong Kong receive bigger help from their homeland.

At the same time, Villanueva said if a Navy ship could be sent as a fullystaffed floating hospital to accommodate Filipinos turned away from overwhelmed Hong Kong hospitals, “then it would be of great help.” “[There are just] two or three sailing days from Manila, [and there are] AFP personnel and equipment available,” he said.

Villanueva, chair of the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment and Human Resource Development, said any aid by the Philippine government should be cobbled together with the remittances record of Filipinos from Hong Kong in mind.

Villanueva added initial moves by the government to help Filipinos struck with COVID-19 in the Chinasupervised territory, such as $200 in financial aid and repatriation flights as ordered by President Duterte, are steps in the right direction.

“That’s 80 percent, more or less, of our target population of 11.4 million pediatric population of 12 to 17 years [old],” he said.

Duque added the struggle that the government needed to hurdle now was acquiring more vaccines for the five to 11 age group as there are only 12.5 million vaccines allotted so far for them.

In November 2021, the Philippines started the COVID-19 vaccination for the 12 to 17 age group.

Meanwhile, the rollout of COVID-19 vaccination for 5 to 11 years old in the country started in February 2022.

In related developments, the DOH plans to finish middle of next week the transition plan for when COVID-19 becomes endemic, Duque said.

News

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Rody signs refugee protection EO

By Vito Barcelo

P

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has issued an executive order (EO) institutionalizing access to protection services for refugees, stateless persons, and asylum seekers or POCs. EO 163, signed by Duterte on February 28, 2022, institutionalizes an InterAgency Committee on the Protection of Refugees, Stateless Persons, and Asylum Seekers to assure the provision of relevant services and assistance to POCs pursuant to the 2017 Inter-Agency Agreement.

“In this regard, the state shall closely monitor and ensure full protection of the rights of persons of concern to liberty and security, and freedom of movement. Sub-

ject to applicable laws and issuances, the minimum standards for the treatment of refugees shall be assured,” the EO states.

“These shall include the provision of access to socioeconomic services, social security benefits, gainful employment and humane working conditions, education, participation in judicial and administrative citizenship proceedings, legal assistance and access to courts, and

freedom of religion.”

The EO is in accordance with the 1951 United Nations Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol, the 1954 UN Convention Relating to the Status of Stateless Person, and the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness.

The POCs have the “concomitant obligation to abide by the laws and regulations of the country, including measures relating to the protection of public health, and maintenance of public order and national security.”

The local government units (LGUs) are encouraged to support the integration of the POCs within their communities, conduct information and awareness campaigns, and make available the necessary programs and services to facilitate such

integration in local development frameworks, including development programming and emergency response and recovery frameworks.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has limited the ability of refugees, stateless persons and asylum seekers to cross borders to seek protection, bringing to fore the need to integrate and institutionalize relevant policies and programs of government agencies and ensure that these communities of people are properly protected and accorded the widest possible exercise of fundamental rights and freedoms,” the EO read.

The Philippines is one of the few countries in the region to have acceded to the 1951 Refugee Convention and the 1967 protocol, according to the website of the UN refugee agency.

PH, Australia vow to elevate strategic pact THE Philippine and Australian governments reaffirmed their commitment to elevate the two countries’ strategic partnerships.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Wednesday said the two sides discussed several areas of cooperation during the second Foreign Ministry Consultations held in Manila on February 28, which included ways and existing collaboration to address the pandemic.

Also discussed were defense and security; trade and investment; market access for Philippine bananas, pineapples, and dragon fruit; development cooperation particularly in Mindanao; science, innovation, and cybersecurity; people-to-people linkages; labor; education and culture; and human rights.

The meeting was co-chaired by Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary for Asian and Pacific Affairs Neal Imperial and Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) First Assistant Ridwaan Jadwat.

For 2022, Imperial looks forward to the full implementation of the 20212022 Plan of Action, which was endorsed at the Philippines-Australia Ministerial Meeting (PAMM) in August 2021.

“The Philippines and Australia enjoy a mature relationship. After 75 years, the ties that now bind our countries have proven to be strong, reliable and forward-looking in a multitude of areas,” he said.

Jadwat, for his part, sees the extensive discussions during the meeting as a demonstration of the depth and breadth of relations between the two countries, citing it as proof that the two are in an “excellent position” to elevate relations to a strategic partnership.

FIRST WEDNESDAY MASS. Parishioners attend the first Wednesday mass at the Baclaran Church in Parañaque City. Under Alert Level 1, churches in the National Capital Region and other areas are now allowed to operate at full capacity. Danny Pata

CAMP Brig. Gen Salipada Pendatun, Maguindanao—The Bangsamoro Government is constructing its regional police headquarters here that is designed to be compliant with the development standards of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Together, PNP Chief PGen Dionardo Carlos and Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ibrahim of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) on Wednesday led the ground-breaking ceremonies for the construction of a modern police headquarters in the old Camp Brig. Gen Salipada K Pendatun in this town.

Minister Naguib Sinarimbo of the BARMM’s Ministry of the Interior and Local Government said the project worth 40 million is fully funded by the Bangsamoro Government through the MILG. Sinarimbo said the leadership principle of the regional government holds that prosperity in Bangsamoro begins with a secure Bangsamoro Government.

Palace urged to hasten OK of power plants

By Joel E. Zurbano FORMER Vice President Jejomar Binay on Wednesday urged the government to cut red tape and streamline the approval process for new power plants to prevent a repeat of the crippling power outages in the past.

In a statement, Binay said new power plants would help meet projected demand soon, sustain economic growth, and help provide jobs and livelihood opportunities.

“Right now, it takes years to secure a permit and operate new power plants.

The ones we have are prone to frequent breakdowns and cannot meet rising power demands. They can no longer meet the high demand for electricity, especially during summer,” said Binay, who is running for senator in the May 9 elections.

The former vice president stated that the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) warned of thinning power supply in Luzon during the months leading to the upcoming polls.

In January, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) also warned of a “thin” power supply in the Luzon grid during the summer season.

The NGCP had said that the Department of Energy projected higher peak demands of 12,387 megawatts for Luzon for the period, or 747 MW higher than the 11,640MW recorded on the same period last year.

Unless the process is simplified and new power plants are opened soon, Binay warned the country could experience prolonged brownouts similar to the 1990s.

“This is not only a burden to ordinary people. It will also affect businesses and even our economy,” he said.

Binay said that the long approval process makes it hard for supply to catch up to the demand.

He noted that some power plants in the country are already in need of maintenance or prone to breakdowns.

Iloilo research center finally breeds ‘galunggong’ in captivity A SCIENTIFIC breakthrough at an Iloilo-based research center might finally be the long-term solution to the perennial shortage of galunggong (round scad) in the Philippines.

In a world’s first, researchers successfully spawned galunggong in captivity last December 2021 at the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center Aquaculture Department (SEAFDEC/AQD) in Tigbauan, Iloilo, marking a critical milestone toward farming the fish.

“Our breeders have been spawning continuously since December until this February, and we now have thousands

of galunggong in different larval to early juvenile stages at our hatchery which we hope to further grow to market sizes to prove that we can farm galunggong,” SEAFDEC/AQD chief Dan Baliao said.

“Galunggong” is considered a staple dish in the Philippines, however, the catch of local fishers has seen a decline over the years leading to increasing prices, now reaching P250 to P300 a kilo, and controversial moves to import the fish amid closed fishing seasons.

Researcher Ma. Irene CabanillaLegaspi said they started collecting wild galunggong breeders off southern Iloilo and Antique in 2020 as part of a

Modern police headquarters to rise on mortar firing site

By Nash Maulana

A3

The Police Regional Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) is currently under its new regional director.

The PRO-BAR headquarters is seen as a landmark edifice of emotional healing be-

tween two former parties of a long-standing armed conflict, officials said, referring to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front-Bangsamoro Armed Forces and the Philippine Government’s state security forces.

BINAY IN PANGASINAN. Former Vice President Jejomar Binay meets with Mayor Simplicio Rosario in Pangasinan. Moreover, Binay also participated in a turnover to beneficiaries of a housing project in Binmaley, Pangasinan.

Government of Japan-funded project at SEAFDEC/AQD, the same research center responsible for groundbreaking studies on breeding milkfish in the 70s and 80s.

After collecting galunggong breeders onboard commercial fishing vessels and through fish traps, Cabanilla-Legaspi’s team transported them to SEAFDEC/ AQD’s headquarters in Tigbauan and stocked them in fish tanks to prepare them for spawning.

It was the breeders they caught in August and October 2021 that began laying eggs in December and, as of writing, continue to produce good eggs. Though

still in an early experimental stage, they already have fingerlings in the hatchery that are more than 50 days old.

“We observed that the fish were growing very fast. When they reach 20 days old, they have a very fast growth and we can obtain 2.5-centimeter round scad in 25 days,” Cabanilla-Legaspi said.

Although trials in the hatchery are still few, SEAFDEC/AQD scientist Dr. Leobert de la Peña noted that the galunggong fry also has “very high survival” compared to other marine fish being grown at SEAFDEC/AQD, reaching as much as 20 percent survival 25 days after they hatch.

Sandigan convicts ex-Cebu mayor, 3 others in P20m corruption case THE Sandiganbayan has convicted a former Cebu mayor and three other city officials in corruption charges in connection with the anomalous diversion of P20 million in public funds earmarked for agricultural development into a private company in 2007.

In a 119-page decision dated February 28, the anti-graft court’s Sixth Division found Bogo City Mayor Celestino Martinez III, councilor Crescencio Verdida who was the municipal accountant during the time, former municipal treasurer Rhett Minguez, and former municipal assistant treasurer Julio Ursonal Jr. guilty of violating Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. They were sentenced up to 10 years in prison.

They were also perpetually disqualified from holding any public office and all of their retirement benefits were ordered forfeited.

The case against another accused who remains at large, former municipal budget officer Mary Lou Ursal was archived pending her arrest.

The officials were found guilty of conspiring with one another in diverting P20 million in public funds to the Bogo Municipal Employees MultiPurpose Cooperative (BMEMPC), a private corporation.

The funds were originally from the Department of Agriculture (DA) and for agricultural and livelihood assistance for farmers, fisherfolk, and other members of the marginalized sector under the Ginintuang Agrikulturang Makamasa (GAM) program.

On April 26, 2007, the officials instead turned over the money to BMEMPC by constituting it as a conduit for public funds and making the funds available exclusively to BMEMPC.

Police seize P6m worth of drugs in Muntinlupa raid

By Joel E. Zurbano

AGAINST THE ANTI-TERROR LAW. Petitioners against the government AntiTerror Law file their Joint Motion for Reconsideration of the Supreme Court decision that said the law is largely “not unconstitutional.” Danny Pata

POLICE seized more than P6 million worth of illegal drugs in an entrapment operation late Tuesday night in Muntinlupa City.

The latest anti-narcotics operation also resulted in the arrest of four suspected drug dealers namely Jhonray Barendse, Joselito Olong Estay, Emely Dologuin Subrado, and Marcel Iglesias Alawia.

Joint elements from the National Capital Region Police Office led P/Lt. Jhordan Bartolome from the Special Opera-

tion Unit (SOU) and Muntinlupa City Police station headed by P/Col. Angel Garcillano conducted the buy-bust operation along National Road in Barangay Poblacion around 10 p.m.

The entrapment was made successfully with the help of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and local leaders in the barangay.

Seized from the suspects were one kilo of shabu valued at P6.8 million, two mobile phones, assorted identification cards, and the cash and boodle money used in the operation.

The suspects and the pieces of evi-

dence were immediately brought to SOU office for proper documentation and disposition, pending the filing of criminal charges against them for violation of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Acts) before the Muntinlupa City prosecutors office.

NCRPO director P/Maj. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr. commended his men and the PDEA for the latest accomplishment.

“Let us always help one another and support our police in combating illegal drugs, criminality and terrorism to keep our communities safe and in order for our future generation,” he added.

Isko frets about OFWs in Taiwan due to specter of China invasion THE ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and uncertainty in the West Philippine Sea has prompted Aksyon Demokratiko standard-bearer Isko Moreno Domagoso to call on the government to come up with contingency plans for Filipinos.

This includes the possible repatriation of more than 150,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Taiwan, should a crisis suddenly erupt in the island-state that China considers part of its territory.

Domagoso made the statement after he has received information Tuesday that Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense has started distributing “People’s Survival and Evacuation Manual” to the different local government units in preparation for a “crisis” similar to what is happening in Ukraine.

“In the case of Taiwan, I am worried about our Filipino compatriots there.

Because if there is an incident or crisis in the Taiwan Strait, our fellow OFWs, Filipinos who are 150,000 of them, will be immediately affected,” he said in an interview in Pilar, Bataan.

This was before the start of his motorcade going to Balanga City, where Domagoso paid a courtesy visit to Bishop Ruperto Cruz Santos of the Diocese of Balanga.

Meanwhile, Domagoso on Wednesday said he is not keen on reviving the

controversial Bataan Nuclear Power Plant if he becomes president due to safety and environmental risks, which could put people’s lives in danger.

“Well, I don’t think that the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant today is suitable for power generation. They have to permanently close it down. That’s gone, that’s not safe for people. That is not safe for the people of Bataan,” he said in Balanga.

The BNPP was built in 1976 during the time of the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. The nuclear facility was the country’s first and only nuclear power plant, which cost the Filipino people a whopping $2.2-billion in foreign loans.

When Corazon Aquino became president in 1986, her administration decided not to operate it due to corruption and safety concerns, especially after the Chernobyl nuclear fallout in Russia that same year.

“Maybe, as soon as possible, useful or not, we can make a plan for possible evacuation for the safety of our Filipino compatriots in Taiwan whether there is a crisis or not. We are well prepared as the Boy Scout usually do. But still, we will pray that there will be no untoward incident (in Taiwan), but still we were all surprised about what happened to Ukraine and Russia,” he added.Rey E. Requejo

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News

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

MAYORAL SUPPORT. UniTeam presidential candidate Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., vice presidential bet Sara DuterteCarpio and Narvacan, Ilocos Sur Mayor Luis “Chavit” Singson lead the honorees at the opening of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines General Assembly 2022 at Resorts World Manila in Pasay City. Ver Noveno

Chavit: 80% of mayor’s league members voting for BBM-Sara

By Maricel V. Cruz and Rey E. Requejo

T

he vast majority of the members of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) are supporting the UniTeam tandem of presidential candidate former Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) and his running mate LakasChristian Muslim Democrats (CMD) vice presidential bet Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte.

No less than LMP President and Narvacan, Ilocos Sur Mayor Luis Singson, Sr. gave this assessment Tuesday night, during the group’s 2022 general assembly, where Marcos and Duterte were guests.

“I heed the wishes of mayors (LMP mayors). Most of them are supporting

Lacson: Events behoove Pinoys to vote for right leader on May 9

By Macon Ramos-Araneta WARNING that the full-scale invasion launched by Russia on Ukraine might inspire Asian superpower China to do the same on the Philippines, Partido Reporma standard-bearer Panfilo Lacson said it behooves every Filipino to elect the right leader who can readily face such threats.

Considering his military background, foresight, and geopolitical acumen, Lacson showed why he is in the best position to lead the country in the event war comes to Manila, having had the courage to stand in solidarity with Kiev amid its ongoing battle against mighty Moscow.

Meanwhile, excessive charges for motorcycle franchises and student drivers’ licenses will be things of the past once Lacson and running mate Senate President Vicente Sotto III get the people’s mandate following the May 9 national elections.

Also, bottom-up budgeting (BUB) will help barangays across the country get what they really need and prevent more wastage of the people’s money, Lacson and Sotto III told village leaders in Candelaria, Quezon.

Instead of the current system of the national government giving its agencies a spending ceiling, Lacson and Sotto emphasized that zero-based or the BUB system shifts the emphasis to barangays and local governments to set the plans and programs their areas really need.

To recall, it was Lacson who rejected an earlier proposition for the Philippines to stay neutral over the issue, citing the Constitution that renounces war as a foreign policy and Article I of the United Nations (UN) charter, which codified the maintenance of international peace and security.

He issued that statement during his appearance at the CNN Philippines’ presidential debate last Sunday.

The following day, the Philippine government adopted the same position when it voted ‘yes’ to condemn Russia’s attacks at the emergency session convened by the UN General Assembly.

the BBM-Sara tandem,” Singson said in an ambush interview on the sidelines of the event held at Marriott Grand Ballroom in Pasay City Tuesday night.

Marcos Jr. is confident that he and Duterte’s experience as local chief executives would serve them well in

ensuring that basic services would properly be delivered to the people, especially those living in far-flung areas when they are elected following the May 9 elections.

Marcos also emphasized that proper coordination and cooperation between the national government and local government units are keys to promoting progress in the countryside, as well as in ensuring that appropriate laws are implemented accordingly.

During the LMP General Assembly at Marriott Hotel in Pasay City on Wednesday, he highlighted his and Inday Sara’s rich experience as a governor and mayor, respectively, that would help them serve the country and the people better.

Singson said that out of the 1,480 LMP mayor-members, around 80 percent support the UniTeam duo. That

translates to just under 1,200 of the mayors.

“I do not choose, I just follow. And in any survey, they get more than 50 percent. It is the first time I saw it is the people themselves who campaign... almost all of them are volunteers. That is extraordinary,” Singson said.

So astonished was the Narvacan mayor of the ground support for BBM-Sara that he said the May elections could produce a majority president for the Philippines as opposed to a Chief Executive elected with a plurality of votes.

The LMP general assembly was one of the few events in the ongoing campaign that Marcos and Duterte attended together physically.

This showed the importance both gave for the local chief executives, which they identify with given their respective political careers.

Pacquiao to woo poor Pinoys ‘who will decide polls’ PROMDI presidential aspirant Sen. Manny Pacquiao yesterday said he will use the remaining days of the campaign period to go around the country to rally for support from poor Filipinos, who he believes will determine the result of this year’s presidential election.

Pacquiao, together with senatorial bet Lutz Barbo, is now in Pangasinan as one of the guests of the State of Municipality Address (SOMA) of Binmaley Mayor Sammy Rosario and the inauguration of the town’s evacuation center.

Pacquiao also went around Lingayen before doing a motorcade in the voterich San Carlos.

His team is also scheduled to conduct

sorties in Dagupan City, Malasiqui, and Urdaneta. Before that, Pacquiao went around the City of San Jose Del Monte and Caloocan.

“As much as possible I want to go around as much as I can,” Pacquiao said, as he belittled the results of recent surveys because it does not represent the sentiment of the country’s poor.

He said those who are really poor are not included in these surveys.

“Those who are struggling in life are looking for someone who wants to help them. Those who really want genuine change,” the boxing legend said.

Pacquiao said he has high hopes that he can now campaign better after the

government downgraded the COVID-19 alert level of most parts of the country to level 1.

He said this decision should prompt the Commission on Elections to relax restrictions not only on political campaigns but also on the day-to-day activities of ordinary Filipinos, as long as they continue to observe minimum health and safety protocols.

He expressed hope that Comelec would relax restrictions since we are already at level 1 “so that it will be easier for us to campaign. Candidates also need to shake hands and do fist bumps for their supporters.”

Macon Ramos-Araneta

Over 100 school leaders vow to back Leni-Kiko

By Rio N. Araja LEADERS in the academic sector backed the presidential bid of Vice President Leni Robredo and her running mate Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan.

In a joint statement, the group said over 100 past and current presidents of the largest colleges and schools in the country have manifested their “unequivocal support” to the Robredo-Pangilinan tandem.

“We make this determination following scrutiny of the various candidates’ track record as servant leaders, their proposed plans for education, and, more importantly, their character as individuals,” it added.

Among the signatories were exCommission on Higher Education chairpersons Patricia Licuanan, Ester Garcia and Angel Alcala; ex-Department of Education secretaries Armin Luistro and Dr. Fe Hidalgo; Technical Education and Skills Development director general Edicio dela Torres; University of the Philippines president Emmanuel Soriano; Ateneo de Manila University president Father Roberto Yap; Dela Salle University president Bernard OcaAdamson University president Father Marcelo Manimtim; University of Cebu president Augusto Go;Ateneo de Zamboanga president Father Karel San Juan ; Xavier University president Father Mars Tan; Saint Louis University president Father Gilbert Sales, University of the Immaculate Concepcion president Sr. Marissa Viri, concurrent president of the Catholic Education Association of the Philippines.

‘Boring’ race for most NCR mayor seats

FOR UKRAINE. The Manila Cathedral lights up in blue and yellow Wednesday

evening,March 2, 2022, to express solidarity with the suffering of the people and the Church in Ukraine in the wake of Russia’s invasion. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) also called on Filipinos to pray for an end to the violence in Ukraine. Danny Pata

INCUMBENT mayors and their relatives are dominating lopsided mayoral races across Metro Manila, according to the PAHAYAG NCR Election Tracker Survey conducted by PUBLiCUS Asia Inc. between February 18-24, 2022.

“The races in NCR (National Capital Region) are shaping up to be boring, with the average gap between the first-place candidate and the second-place candidate for mayor hovering around the 50-percent mark on average,” said Dr. David Barua Yap Jr., Chief Data Scientist of PUBLiCUS Asia and head of its polling and analytics operations.

According to the survey data, 15 out of the 17 mayoral races in NCR are led by an incumbent mayor seeking re-election or a relative seeking to replace them – by an average 49-point margin of victory.

Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto enjoys the largest lead among all NCR mayoral candidates, polling 88 points above his opponent. Sotto received 92% of the vote for mayor among Pasig respondents. His challenger, incumbent Vice Mayor Iyo Caruncho Bernardo, only received 4% of the vote.

Representative Wes Gatchalian of Valenzuela enjoys an 81-point lead in his bid to switch seats with his brother, incumbent Valenzuela Mayor Rex Gatchalian, earning 85% of the vote for mayor among Valenzuela respondents. His sole competitor, Bombit Bernardo, earned only 4% of the vote.

Taguig Representative Lani Cayetano and San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora also enjoy comfortable leads of more than 60 points in the mayoral races of their cities.

Caloocan: Missing permit nixes Aksyon rally

By Jun David CALOOCAN City Administrator Engr. Oliver Hernandez on Wednesday denied that the revocation of the permit for the Aksyon Demokratiko motorcade was politically motivated.

“Everyone is welcome in the city of Caloocan, as long as they comply with all the requirements and guidelines,” said Hernandez.

The administrator said his office received the Aksyon Demokratiko permit application to hold a motorcade and political rally/ forum or assembly at 5 p.m. on February 24, via e-mail sent by the coordinator/authorized representative of the party, a certain Carlo Religioso.

The next day was a holiday (EDSA Day),

so on the following Monday the CA’s office checked the organizer’s requirements and prepared the necessary permits, Hernandez said.

As part of the normal process for the issuance of a permit to conduct a motorcade, a copy of it is sent to the Caloocan police, Caloocan Department of Public Safety and Traffic Management, and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, if the motorcade will traverse on major roads or national roads covered or under jurisdiction of the MMDA. Most of the proposed Aksyon Demokratiko motorcade route was on major roads, so MMDA authorization is required, the city official explained.

ASH PROTEST. ‘Running priest’ Father Robert Reyes urged election

officials not to ‘burn’ the vote of the Filipino people while smearing ashes on people passing in front of the Comelec office in Intramuros, Manila on Ash Wednesday. Norman Cruz

Opinion Quezon strongly condemns violence We will see to it that justice will be served.

This attempt on Mayora Grace’s life is utterly despicable and unforgivable.

Any form of violence, regardless of intention—whether politically-motivated, election-related, or not—has no place in civilized society. Quezon province vehemently abhors such an evil act. As chief executive of the Province, I strongly condemn violence and the perpetrators of such crimes in the province. We never tolerate these heinous acts, especially towards public servants who have been working diligently for the people.

We will see to it that justice will be served. Let this be a warning that anyone who will perpetrate evil in this province will be dealt with accordingly under our laws. I have already tasked our local police to immediately investigate and identify the people behind this crime. I also ask the assistance of our Police Regional Office CALABARZON and the National Bureau of Investigation to aid in the speedy resolution of this case. I now earnestly appeal to those who have any knowledge on this crime to step up and help resolve this matter. Do not be afraid to speak up for truth and justice. Those responsible for this crime must be held liable under the law.

In today’s world, peace has become elusive. We see crimes committed here and there, and currently a war waging between countries. Hence, I urge my fellow Quezonians to continuously pray and seek for peace. Let us dedicate our Sundays to pray for the much needed love, harmony, and unity in our province, in the country, and the world.

Let us also fervently pray for Mayora Grace’s recovery, so that she may continue her invaluable work for the people of Infanta, especially at this point in the pandemic.

62 million voters, not 1,400 respondents, will decide

ONE does not have to have a doctorate in either logic or psychology to understand why presidential candidate Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., more commonly known as Bongbong Marcos (BBM), has been declining invitations to participate in the public debates organized by the Commission on Elections and various media institutions. Conflict with his campaign schedule is the stock reply given by BBM to the organizers of the debates.

Clearly, Mr. Marcos, the selfproclaimed Golden Age Boy, has embraced the “no talk, no mistake” campaign strategy widely attributed to the late, non-corrupt President Ramon Magsaysay. In keeping with that strategy, the late dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos’ son believes that he should avoid rocking the proverbial boat now that polling organization Pulse Asia – renamed False Asia by its critics – has declared that if the May 2022 elections were held today, BBM would garner 55 percent of the votes cast for president.

“Having won already, should I run any risks?” apparently is the question that BBM asked himself and answered negatively.

With the result of the Pulse Asia poll survey as basis, can Mr. Marcos wisely believe that he has already won and therefore can afford to be disdainful of the invitations to debate the other presidential candidates publicly?

Definitely not. Numerically, there

is an enormous disconnect. The latest estimate of this country’s population is 112 million, while the normal Pulse Asia survey sample is made up of 1,400 individuals. Unless Pulse Asia can validly claim that it does an excellent, 100-percent representative job of composing its survey samples – a doubtful claim at best – how can 1,400 Filipinos decide the outcome of an election in which approximately 62 million voters will cast ballots?

The choices of 770 (55 percent of 1,400) individuals will decide the election for the 62 million Filipinos on May 9 who will cast the ballots?

A yes answer would be startling, to say the least.

BBM does not have the May elections in the bag.

The numerical implausibility is, of course, not the only factor to be considered in deciding whether Pulse Asia’s 55-percent-for BBM finding is believable. There are several others.

The foremost of these is the quality of Mr. Marcos. Assuming that the Supreme Court allows him to continue his candidacy, the Golden Age Boy carries a lot of baggage and is highly controversial even in the eyes of – even anathema – to many sectors of Philippine society. Truth be told, Pulse Asia’s 55-percent finding for BBM is a source of wonder for the many eligible voters, even independent-minded ones.

In contrast, the other presidential candidates are going into the election untainted by charges of corruption, lying, non-performance and trouble with

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EDITORIAL

hope for Infanta amidst the adversities.

Hence, I cannot imagine who would, in his right mind, intend harm on her.

She has no known enemies—that in itself speaks volumes about her character.

SUNDAY—the Lord’s day, is a day when most of us take a breather from a week’s hectic work. People attend mass or religious services, spend time with families, and recharge one’s batteries for another week ahead. It was supposed to be a day of peaceful respite.

Last Sunday, however, shook us with the terrible news that Mayor Filipina Grace America of Infanta, Quezon was ambushed. inside her vehicle after attending a religious service. Initial reports revealed that Mayora Grace sustained multiple gunshot wounds.

She was rushed to Claro M. Recto Memorial Hospital and was transferred to Metro Manila with the help of the Philippine Air Force. Thankfully, as of writing, Mayora Grace is out of danger and recovering.

I have known Mayora Grace for a long time. She has been integral to Serbisyong Suarez and a close friend of our family. She is a dedicated, hardworking, and selfless public servant who has been the number one advocate and supporter of the people of Infanta. Throughout her term, we have seen how she values the talents and potential of the Infantahins through her regular recognitions and capacity-building and support programs for women, children, artists, educators, farmers, fisherfolks, and other sectors.

She is also consistently active in empowering and supporting communities through her responsive and timely local social welfare, economic, and educational programs. The reputable Infanta Mayor has fearlessly stood by her constituents in the midst of calamities and crises.

During this pandemic, Mayora Grace has always been on the frontlines. She has been actively monitoring not only the COVID-19 status in the municipality, but also the economic and social conditions of the people. She makes sure that adequate support is afforded to the people. She serves as a beacon of

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

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Misreading Ukraine

NYONE who has watched courageous Ukrainian civilians standing up to Russian invaders will realize how deeply they love their country, and how serious they are about defending their way of life.

In one of countless instances of bravery, an elderly man who said he was Russian reprimanded a group of Russian soldiers in the coastal city of Melitopol, Ukraine, that the invaders claim to have taken.

“Russians invading Ukraine is so f----d up!” he tells the Russian soldiers. “What are you doing here?

We have our life and you have yours. I’m Russian too, but I live in this country…. You have your own country and we have ours. Don’t you have any problems in your own country? Are you all rich there?

Shame on you!”

In another instance, a Ukrainian man tried to block a convoy of several Russian tanks with just his hands in the city of Bakhmach, roughly halfway between Russia and Kyiv.

In such vivid examples of bravery and love of country, it is disheartening to see some portray the Russian invasion of Ukraine as a proxy war between Moscow and Washington.

Yet this is what political analysts from the think tank BRICS Strategic Studies did this week, warning that “the Philippines should avoid following the footsteps and avoid the fate of Ukraine.”

One analyst said Ukraine was be-

ing used as a pawn in the geopolitical maneuvers of the United States because of its strategic geographical location.

It is absurd to think Filipinos would fight a proxy war for the United States or any other foreign power.

“The country (Philippines) should refuse and prevent at all costs the possibility of being a proxy or a pawn of any superpower in their proxy wars,” the analyst, Anna Rosario MalindogUy said.

She said this was not aligned with our core national interests and would only add a burden to the territorial dispute in the South China Sea. The president of the think tank, Herman T. Laurel, noted that the US had used the Philippines as its Ukraine in the South China Sea since post-martial law — until President Rodrigo R. Duterte came into position in 2016 with his China-friendly policies.

“President Duterte sinks the US pivot to Asia by reversing the course

of events between China and the Philippines from mutually defeating conflict and destabilization of Asia as a whole towards mutually beneficial dialogue, cooperation and trade, thereby stabilizing the Asia region for continuing economic construction and prosperity,” he said during the same forum.

The notion is preposterous and can come only from those who have imbibed the Duterte Kool-Aid. The US military bases in the Philippines, the largest overseas military installation of the US Armed Forces, were ordered closed in 1991—a step away from the United States if there ever was one.

That happened during the term of President Cory Aquino and completed during the term of President Fidel Ramos, when Rodrigo Duterte was still mayor of Davao City.

We also might ask these armchair analysts how well the country has fared under six years of pro-China policies. Have we gained or lost our hold on territories in the West Philippine Sea that are, by law, ours? Or have Chinese coast guard vessels held sway in these areas, driving Filipino fishermen away from their traditional fishing grounds?

Finally, it is absurd to think Filipinos would fight a proxy war for the United States or any other foreign power. Heaven forbid that we may have to defend our homeland from an invading force, but if that time comes, we will certainly do it as proud Filipinos, not as anyone’s pawn, and we can only hope that we do it with as much courage as the Ukrainians are showing.

If BBM wins BMM will therefore have an Everest to climb because we will be seeing three groups of people. Those diehard followers, those against and those playing it safe. We have seen the last one play out already in what the Batangas governor did. He is endorsing the team of BBM and Sara Duterte Carpio while at the same time sending his solidarity greetings to last week’s EDSA 1 celebrants which as people would say is the classic “balimbing.” No wonder, he was called out on social media and had to delete his tweet.

LAST week the country celebrated the 36th Anniversary of EDSA 1. Let’s hope that all those who attended the many celebrations in many parts of the country gave it their best because there is that distinct possibility that this year’s celebrations might be the last if BBM wins.

Why would that be? Because it would be totally incomprehensible and meaningless celebrating the departure of the Marcos family out of the country in 1986 when the people Filipino people of 2022 voted for the late President’s son as the next president of this country.

What might likely happen is that a Congress controlled by the new administration will pass a law abolishing February 25 as a non-working holiday.

The other scenario is that a Marcos administration might maintain the holiday but as a working holiday devoid of celebrations.

Perhaps BMM will have a trick up his sleeve and will be able to convince the people that such celebrations will no longer be necessary. There should be very little problem in doing this considering that based on the many polling surveys coming out, BBM will win the May elections. But as we can see how the house is being divided, those who have come out to endorse other candidates belong to the usual crowds. These are the progressives, educated professionals, the religious, some businesses and cause-oriented people. This shows that there will be a sizable segment of the population that we will be seeing on the streets doing their old stuff— protesting.

But maybe the good governor was just showing a glimpse of the way people will behave if we will have BBM as president. After what I have seen of what many people are capable of in my long years in government, nothing really surprises me anymore.

The holiday issue however, is not the only question that people would be asking. There are many others.

How would his government look like? Many of those who served under his father are either gone or are probably too old to serve. Will we see the same mold of senior officials that served the late President Marcos in the 1970s and 80s? Since I was able to witness the martial law years from the front row, I could say that many of the cabinet members of the father were highly qualified technocrats. The late president went to great lengths to select qualified people to work for him. That there were also

many on the sidelines who committed abusive and atrocious things that eventually caused the downfall is also unfortunately true.

Will BMM pick his senior officials with the same diligence as his father?

From there, we can probably extrapolate to figure out what kind of government that we will be having for the next six years. It will also show us whether unity will be achievable or just a meaningless campaign battle cry to hoodwink the voters. I suspect that it will not take long if indeed he will win to know if the people have elected the right leader or experience a buyer’s remorse.

As we have often heard before, six years is too long for a bad president and too short for a good one. Other questions that people may be asking is that will the son be so different from the father? How will he govern a very divided society? And still another question and a very important one is that will there be a revision of history as written over the last 36 years and what will it be? Will people change their view about martial law? How about the media? Will those media outlets that opposed martial law go back to what they used to do and oppose the son’s administration or decide that the best approach is what is known as critical collaboration? One thing for sure, it will be a strange new environment especially in the first year.

Whatever happens, let’s all hope that the country keeps moving forward instead of revisiting events that transpired almost half a century ago and fighting over who was right. If not, we will be wasting six precious years of economic development and see our neighbors continue to pass us by.

the law.

Non-Ilocano Filipinos – roughly those born after 1960 – who have personal memories of the martial law period know that the 14 years of martial law were not a golden age. They will almost certainly not vote for BBM. Their votes will be distributed among the other presidential candidates.

Each of the other candidates has his or her regional bailiwicks, which will go for their favorite son or daughter.

Mr. Marcos only has the Solid North – apparently not so solid this time

around, according to one of his competitors. And the Southern Mindanao vote will not go entirely to BBM’s running mate, Davao City Mayor Sara DuterteCarpio, because Sarangani’s Sen. Manny Pacquiao is a presidential candidate.

For eligible voters looking for relative youthfulness and physical attractiveness, there is Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso. It is probably from BBM that the mayor will take the most votes.

Finally there is the youth vote, which Comelec has estimated to comprise 50

percent of this year’s electorate. Will today’s educated youth really vote for someone who belongs to a family associated with corruption and abuse of power and is facing disqualification because of conviction for tax evasion?

Almost certainly not.

Despite Pulse Asia’s earnest claim of accuracy, BBM does not have the 2022 election in the bag. The nation’s 62 million eligible voters, not Pulse Asia’s 1,400 respondents,will decide on May 9 who the next president of the Philippines will be.

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

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

What would a government under the Marcos son look like?

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Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Biden slams ‘dictator’ Putin and his order to invade neighboring Ukraine

US PRESIDENT Joe Biden on Tuesday branded his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin a “dictator” facing withering economic and diplomatic isolation for invading neighboring Ukraine, and warned the world is in a “battle” between democracy and autocracy.

As he delivered his first State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress and the American people, praising the Ukrainian “wall of strength” that has stood tall against Russian invaders, Biden made clear there would be no US boots on the ground in the week-old war on Europe’s doorstep.

“Let me be clear: our forces are not engaged, and will not engage, in the conflict with Russian forces in Ukraine,” the Democratic leader said.

Biden nevertheless leveled ferocious criticism at Putin.

“A Russian dictator, invading a foreign country, has costs around the world,” Biden said.

“In the battle between democracy

and autocracy, democracies are rising to the moment, and the world is clearly choosing the side of peace and security.”

The West, led by tough new steps from Washington, has launched a fierce economic battle with Russia, unleashing a wave of sanctions that threaten to bring the Russian economy to its knees.

Taking aim at Russian oligarchs and “corrupt leaders” who Biden said have bilked billions of dollars off Putin’s regime, the US president delivered a stern warning that the West will “seize their yachts, their luxury apartments, their private jets.”

“We’re coming for your ill-begotten gains,” Biden said to applause.

Biden went on to announce a ban on all Russian aircraft from US airspace, adding the United States to Canada and a host of European nations closing airspace to Russian airliners and other aircraft in response to the invasion of Ukraine. AFP

BATTLING THE COVID WAVE. People arrive at a COVID-19 testing center in Hong Kong on March 2, 2022. AFP

OVER COVID RULES, CHILD SEPARATIONS

US warns against Hong Kong travel

T

HE United States warns citizens against travelling to Hong Kong, citing the risk of children being separated from parents as the Chinese city imposes controversial COVID isolation policies.

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 221, QUEZON CITY IN RE: PETITION FOR THE CORRECTION OF ENTRY IN THE CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH OF “JOVEL DAMES DAWATON BONNIT” TO BE AMENDED(CORRECTED AS “BRYAN JAMES BONNIT BAGSAO” IN THE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OF QUEZON CITY WITH REGISTRY NO. 99-42118; AND FOR THE CORRECTION OF THE NAME OF THE FATHER FROM “NA” TO “JOSEPH AGSIB BAGSAO” SPEC. PROC. NO. 10382-SP

R-QZN-21-

BRYAN JAMES BONNIT BAGSAO, Petitioner, -versusEVELYN DAWATON BONNIT, JOSEPH AGSIB BAGSAO, EDEN JACINTO BAGSAO, THE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF QUEZON CITY, AND ALL OTHER PERSONS WHO HAVE CLAIM OR INTEREST, Respondents. x---------------------------------------------x

ORDER A verified Petition was filed before this Court on December 2, 2021 by petitioner, BRYAN JAMES BONNIT BAGSAO, praying that after due notice, publication and hearing, judgment be rendered to allow the correction of name from JOVEL DAMES DAWATON BONNIT to BRYAN JAMES BONNIT BAGSAO and to order the Local Civil Registrar the correction thereof in the Certificate of Live Birth with Registry No. 9942118, and to correct the portion for the name of the petitioner’s father from “NA” to “JOSEPH AGSIB BAGSAO”.

Finding the verified Petition to be sufficient in form and substance, the Court gives due course thereto.

general circulation in the Philippines once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks at petitioner’s expense, upon coordination with the Office of the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court, Quezon City.

Hearing on the verified Petition, is hereby set on July 18, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. before this Court at Room 608, 6/F, Hall of Justice-Annex, City Hall Complex, Quezon City, at which date, time and place all interested persons are required to appear and show cause why the petition should not be granted.

Let copies of this Order be posted by the Branch Sheriff thirty (30) days before the hearing date at the following places at the expense of the petitioner: 1. At the main entrance of the City Hall Building, Quezon City; 2. On the bulletin board of the Court, Hall of Justice Bldg., Quezon City; and, 3. At the Barangay Hall of the barangay where the petitioner resides.

Likewise, let a copy of this Order be furnished the Local Civil Registar of Quezon City, the Office of the Solicitor General, Makati City; the Office of the City Prosecutor, Quezon City; the Civil Registrar General, and the Philippine Statistics Authority.

Further, petitioner through counsel is ordered to furnish respondents Evelyn Dawaton Bonnit, Joseph Agsib Bagsao, Eden Jacinto Bagsao, a copy of this Order with the Petition and its annexes thereto at their given address, and to show proof of compliance hereof before the hearing date.

SO ORDERED. Quezon City, December 16, 2021.

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

WHEREFORE, let a copy of this Order be published in a newspaper of (MStandard-Feb. 17, 24 & Mar. 3, 2022) REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 214 MANDALUYONG CITY IN RE: PETITION FOR DECLARATION OF THE PRESUMPTIVE DEATH OF JOVEN BONILLO JARANDILLA CIVIL CASE NO. R-MND-21 -01624-CV JENEL MANCERA JARANDILLA, Petitioner. x --------------------------------------------x

ORDER

A verified petition for the declaration of presumptive death of Joven Bonillo Jarandilla (JOVEN) was filed by petitioner Jenel Mancera Jarandilla (PETITIONER) on 23 July 2021.

In her petition, PETITIONER alleged that she is of legal age, filipino citizen, and with residence address at No. 10 F. C3 Suntrust Treetop Villas Condo Residences, Coronado Street, Barangay Hulo, Mandaluyong City.

PETITIONER’s absentee spouse Joven Bonillo Jarandilla (JOVEN) is likewise of legal age, Filipino whose present address and whereabouts is allegedly unknown.

PETITIONER and JOVEN were married in a civil rite ceremony conducted by Hon. Elizabeth Gutierrez-Torres, Presiding Judge of Metropolitan Trial Court, Mandaluyong City on 28 February 2003 . Out of their union, the couple begot two children, namely: Patricia Isabela M. Jarandilla born on 20 October 2003 and Nathalie Mancera Jarandilla born on 4 August 2006. PETITIONER and JOVEN lived together and acquired real properties in Sta. Rosa Laguna.

PETITIONER averred that her spouse JOVEN was employed as a part time driver to a businessman. On 09 May 2009, JOVEN called PETITIONER that he will go to National Capital Region to collect from his employer his three (3) months unpaid salaries. PETITIONER, needing money for her children, agreed to meet JOVEN at Starmall. However, after series of phone calls, JOVEN did not show up. At around 9:00 o’clock in the evening PETITIONER went home to Sta. Rosa Laguna. The following day, PETITIONER tried again to call JOVEN, but she did not receive any response from him . After two (2) weeks of waiting, PETITIONER tried to locate her spouse JOVEN through his parents, siblings, and relatives, but to no avail. PETITIONER reported the incident to the office of Barangay Labas, Sta. Rosa City and blotter the same. However, she failed to secure any certification of the said report because the records of the office were destroyed during the onslaught of Typhoon Ondoy.

PETITONER also tried to report the matter to the Police Station in Sta. Rosa City.

However, no report was made.

Meanwhile, sometime in June 2009, PETITIONER, through an informant, filed a complaint with the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) against the members of PACER operatives, who allegedly were responsible for the abduction/kidnapping of her spouse JOVEN. After an operation was conducted, a person was released from the custody of PACER. Unfortunately, said person was not his spouse JOVEN but a certain Mark.

PETITIONER tried to inquire from Mark about the whereabouts of her spouse JOVEN, but

she did not obtain any information from Mark.

PETITIONER stopped seeking help from CHR operatives because she had run out of funds. Thereafter, PETITIONER sought help from her police friends and JOVEN’s parents to inquire whether JOVEN was in jail.

The whereabouts of JOVEN remains unclear.

PETITIONER thought of publishing the incident, however she was dissuaded by her parents-in-law saying that JOVEN will return if he is still alive.

PETITIONER suffered financial difficulties supporting her children. She went to Cebu to find a good job, but it did not help.

She returned to Mandaluyong City and applied for a teaching position. Meanwhile, PETITIONER and her children resided at the house of her parents-in-law in Aklan.

Their financial struggles worsened because her parents-in-law can barely support them.

Thus, her parents-in-law told her to find a partner who could help her and her children.

Eventually, PETITIONER and her children returned to Mandaluyong City where she began teaching. In 2010, her former lover started courting her. She informed her parents-in-law as well as her other in-laws and they did not object to it for the welfare of the two children. Thus, PETITIONER decided to marry her partner and filed the instant petition.

JOVEN has been absent for more than eleven (11) years, specifically from 09 May 2009 until the filing of this petition. Since then, JOVEN’s whereabouts is unknown to the PETITIONER and their children Patricia lsabela M. Jarandilla and Nathalie Mancera Jarandilla. Thus, PETITIONER presumed that her husband JOVEN is already dead.

WHEREFORE, finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, notice is hereby given that this case shall be heard for the presentation of jurisdictional requirements, through in court hearing, on 08 March 2022 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning at the Regional Trial Court, Branch 214, Third Floor. New Hall of Justice Building, Maysilo Circle, Mandaluyong City, at which time and place, any person or entity having interest in this petition may come and show cause, if any, why the petition should not be granted.

Let this Order be published once a week for three (3) consecutive week in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines to be determined by raffle pursuant to P.D. 1079 at petitioners’ expense and be posted in the Court’s bulletin board for at least three (3) weeks before the scheduled hearing.

SO ORDERED. Mandaluyong City.

12 January 2022 (Sgd.) IMELDA L. PORTES-SAULOG Presiding Judge Copy furnished: Office of the Solicitor General Office of the City Prosecutor, Mandaluyong City Atty. Julian T. Tutanes B29 L5 Riverview Drive, Ridgemont Executive Village, San Isidro, Taytay, Rizal Jenel Mancera Jarandilla No. 10F, C3 Suntrust Treetop Villas Condo Residences, Coronado Street Brgy. Hulo, Mandaluyong City Joven Bonillo Jarandilla (Publication) Office of the Clerk of Court Regional Trial Court, Mandaluyong City (MStandard-Feb. 17, 24 & Mar. 3, 2022)

The State Department upgraded Hong Kong to its highest “Do Not Travel” warning “due to COVID-19 related restrictions, including the risk of parents and children being separated.”

“In some cases, children in Hong Kong who test positive have been separated from their parents and kept in isolation until they meet local hospital discharge requirements,” the State Department added.

The Asian financial hub is in the grip of its worst coronavirus

outbreak, registering tens of thousands of new cases each day, overwhelming hospitals and shattering the city’s zeroCOVID strategy.

China has ordered local officials to stamp out the outbreak even as studies suggest as many as a quarter of the city’s residents may have been infected in the current wave.

Authorities plan to test all 7.4 million residents later this month and are scrambling to build a network of isolation camps and temporary hospitals, with China’s help, to house the infected.

“It remains our policy objective to subject all confirmed people to isolation at places other than their places of accommodation so as not to infect others,” city leader Carrie Lam wrote in a progress report this week.

That has deepened anxieties about

family separations in the months ahead and the warning by the United States is the first time the risk has been specifically cited in a travel advisory.

More than 220,000 infections have been recorded in the last two months, compared with just 12,000 for the rest of the pandemic – while its death rate is currently four times Singapore’s.

The real figure is believed to be far higher in part because residents are worried about informing authorities they are infected.

For two years Hong Kong kept infections largely at bay using a strict zeroCOVID strategy but an outbreak of the highly infectious Omicron variant has been tearing through the city since January.

The government was caught flat-footed with few plans in place to deal with a mass outbreak despite the two-year

breathing room afforded by the zeroCOVID success.

The city has since seen overflowing hospitals and morgues, shortages of medics and ambulances, panic buying and a frantic expansion of the city’s spartan quarantine camp system.

The vast majority of those dying are over 70 and unvaccinated after Hong Kong failed to raise its elderly vaccination rate despite ample supplies.

The outbreak has led to the imposition of the toughest restrictions yet with more than a dozen types of businesses ordered to close and a ban on more than two people gathering in public.

Departures by foreign residents have spiked while businesses have voiced growing frustration and alarm over the city’s descent into further international isolation. AFP

United Nations to take first step toward ‘historic’ plastic treaty THE United Nations is to launch formal negotiations on Wednesday for a global treaty to address a plastic trash “epidemic” that supporters say is a historic moment for the planet.

The UN Environment Assembly (UNEA), convening in Nairobi, is poised to adopt a resolution creating an intergovernmental committee to negotiate and finalize a legally binding agreement by 2024.

The amount of plastic trash enter-

ing the oceans is forecast to triple by 2040, and governments have been under pressure to unite behind a global response to the crisis.

The framework for a comprehensive treaty has been approved by UN member states, including major plastic producers like the US and China, according to sources close to the negotiations.

Officials say it gives negotiators a broad and robust mandate to consider

new rules that target plastic pollution from its birth as a raw material to its design, use and safe disposal.

This could include limits on making new plastic, which is derived from oil and gas, though policy specifics will only be determined during later talks.

The mandate provides for the negotiation of binding global targets with monitoring mechanisms, the development of national plans and financing

for poorer countries.

Negotiators also have the scope to consider all aspects of pollution – not just plastic in the ocean but tiny particles in the air, soil and food chain – a key demand of many countries.

“We are 100-percent happy with the outcome,” said Ana Teresa Lecaros, director of environment in the foreign ministry of Peru, a country that co-signed one of the draft resolutions. AFP

Australians flee floods as toll rises, Sydney on alert

NZ protesters burn camp after police move to end riot

FLOODWATERS crashed into more towns on Australia’s east coast as a deadly storm front barrelled south on Wednesday towards Sydney, where the main dam began to spill water.

The death toll rose to 12 in a week-long disaster that has washed cars from roads and forced tens of thousands of people to evacuate their homes as waters lapped at balconies and roofs.

“This is terrible. This is terrible. One life lost is too many,” said New South Wales deputy premier Paul Toole after confirming a third death in the flood-hit town of Lismore.

After bringing havoc to Queensland, the storm front moved southwards, dumping vast quantities of water and sparking a string of flood alerts in New South Wales including Sydney, Australia’s largest city.

“Today, the focus is on Sydney. We are expecting heavy rainfall over the afternoon into the night and into tomorrow,” Toole warned in a news conference.

Sydney’s main Warragamba dam, lying southwest of the city, had reached capacity and started spilling water in the early hours of Wednesday morning, Toole said.

He told residents at risk to flee if they are told to do so.

“If you are getting a knock on the door, if you are asked to leave,please leave,” Toole told a news conference. AFP

NEW Zealand anti-vaccination demonstrators set alight their own protest camp outside parliament Wednesday after riot police moved to end their weeks-long occupation of the legislative precinct.

Police abandoned their light-touch approach, with hundreds of officers using perspex shields, pepper spray and water jets to force back protesters, who responded by hurling bottles, bricks and paint bombs.

When it became clear police were winning control of the makeshift tent city that sprang up on parliament’s lawns three weeks ago, the demonstrators torched it themselves.

“This is not over,” one man yelled, while others chanted “Shame on you” at advancing officers as a thick pall of black smoke enveloped the area.

Police deployed an ear-splitting sonic cannon and high-pressure water hoses to help disperse the crowd, although a few dozen regrouped and fought running battles with police on nearby streets into the evening.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern backed the force’s tough tactics, angrily denouncing the violence as a “desecration” of parliament’s grounds.

“It was an attack on our frontline police, it was an attack on our parliament, it was an attack on our values, and it was wrong,” she told reporters in parliament as rioting continued a few hundred metres (yards) away.

She said what began as a movement against coronavirus vaccine mandates – inspired by similar protests in Canada – had turned toxic and the demonstrators’ conduct was “disgraceful.” AFP

BURNING. A fire rages as police move in to clear protesters from Parliament grounds in Wellington on March 2, 2022, during demonstrations against COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions. AFP

Sri Lanka runs out of fuel amid dollar crisis SRI LANKA’S public transport was crippled Wednesday as buses ran out of diesel, officials said as the country’s foreign exchange crisis worsened with no dollars to import fuel.

The Private Bus Owners’ Association said they were able to operate only about a quarter of their fleet of 20,000 vehicles, while drivers reported queuing for seven hours to top up fuel.

“I could not run the bus for two days because there was no diesel,” said 51-year-old bus driver Sarath.

“I have been in the diesel queue for seven-and-a-half hours.”

Many commuters were seen using their own motorcycles and small cars Wednesday after bus operators warned of drastically scaled back schedules.

One of Sri Lanka’s biggest fuel suppliers, Lanka IOC, put up prices by as much as 12 percent on Saturday while the state-owned Ceylon Petroleum

Corporation (CPC) said it too asked the government to allow it to raise prices.

CPC sources said Wednesday they had supplies only for four more days.

“We have also reduced the issue of diesel to gas stations and asked pumps to try and ration supplies,” one said.

Taxi driver Thushara, 36, said he was in a queue for six hours to get petrol for his three-wheeler.

“Why can’t (President) Gotabaya (Rajapaksa) consider the suffering of the people?” Thushara told AFP as he reached the front of the line.

“Can’t he understand the suffering?

Just come out and see. Why are you allowing people to suffer like this?”

The transport shutdown came as seven-and-a-half hour electricity blackouts also went into effect, the longest scheduled power rationing in over a quarter of a century. AFP

Business PSEi March 2, 2022

TOP GAINERS

1 ALHI 2 OPMB 3 MARC 4 FPI

LAST PRICE CHANGE 6.42 0.91 0.011 0.001 1.33 0.12 0.29 0.025

% CHANGE 16.52% 10.00% 9.92% 9.43%

5 6 7 8 9 10

20 28.85 23.9 57.9 1.02 0.62

6.38% 6.07% 5.75% 5.27% 5.15% 5.08%

APVI LFM SCC CAB ARA FOOD

1.2 1.65 1.3 2.9 0.05 0.03

TOP LOSERS

1 LFM 2 CIC 3 DITO 4 ATNB 5 PHR 6 CAB 7 PHA 8 MER 9 SLF

LAST PRICE CHANGE 23 -2.8 20.7 -2 5.45 -0.5 0.68 -0.05 1.14 -0.08 45.8 -3.2 0.72 -0.04 350 -18 2480 -120

% CHANGE -10.85% -8.81% -8.40% -6.85% -6.56% -6.53% -5.26% -4.89% -4.62%

10

0.68

-4.23%

ATN

-0.03

B3

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

Stock market slumps; DITO and Ayala Land lead losers

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HE stock market slumped Wednesday along with the rest of Asia after oil prices surged past $113 per barrel, with investors growing increasingly fearful about the Ukraine war’s impact on global energy supplies and the economic recovery.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index sank 110.59 points, or 1.4 percent, to 7,304.02 on a value turnover of P7.8 billion. Losers overwhelmed gainers, 128 to 65, with 44 issues unchanged.

DITO CME Holdings Corp., the third major mobile player, tumbled 8.4 percent to P5.45, while property developer Ayala Land Inc. of the Ayala Group fell 2.8 percent to P37.90.

SM Prime Holdings Inc. of the Sy Group dropped 2.5 percent to P38.40, but Solar Philippines Nueva Ecija Corp., which is building the biggest solar power project in Southeast Asia, jumped 14.7 percent to P2.11.

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of his neighbor has sent world markets into a spiral over the past week, further fraying nerves on trading floors caused by runaway inflation and tighter central bank monetary policies.

Wall Street and European markets tumbled Tuesday and the losses largely flowed through to Asia, which had enjoyed two days of relative calm though the selling was not as severe.

Tokyo, Hong Kong and Mumbai lost more than one percent, while there were also losses in Shanghai, Singapore, Taipei, Jakarta, Bangkok and Wellington.

However, Sydney and Seoul eked out marginal gains.

The crisis has seen numerous coun-

tries hammer Moscow with a series of wide-ranging sanctions that have isolated Russia and threaten to crash its economy.

The measures have injected a huge amount of uncertainty into markets with supplies of crucial commodities including metals and grains soaring. The price of global staple wheat is sitting at a 14year high—having risen 30 percent in the past month.

But the main source of unease on trading floors is crude, which has rocketed since Russia began preparing to invade.

On Wednesday Brent topped $110 for the first time since 2014 and WTI followed suit hours later to hit a 2013 high.

In afternoon Asian trade, Brent rose as high as $113.02 and WTI peaked at $111.50.

Incoming sanctions have fueled worries that exports will be cut off from Russia, the world’s third-biggest producer of the commodity. With AFP

MOST ACTIVE

1 SPNEC 2 SM 3 ALI 4 BDO 5 SCC

VOLUME 437,859,000 448,230 8,991,100 2,591,510 11,284,200

VALUE (PHP) 940,234,620 422,321,830 342,091,370 339,141,340 337,471,890

6 7 8 9

ICT SMPH DITO BPI

1,439,780 6,696,800 43,439,800 2,466,100

314,583,160 257,880,990 244,534,822 242,032,677

10

MBT

4,079,700

233,989,552

A picture taken on May 23, 2016 in Notre-Dame-de-Gravenchon, northwestern France shows the ExxonMobil refinery. US oil giant ExxonMobil announced Tuesday that it will begin a phased withdrawal from the major oil field it operates in Russia on behalf of a consortium including Russian, Indian and Japanese companies, citing Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. AFP

Sanctions could hurt Cuban tourism—experts

By Rigoberto Diaz VARADERO, Cuba—International sanctions against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine could have wide-ranging impacts on its Latin American allies such as Cuba, experts say.

Since the coronavirus pandemic, Russian tourists have become the single largest group of visitors to the island nation but events in their homeland have left many eager to return home.

“What we want is to go home calmly and on time,” journalist Evgenia Darovskaya, 43, told AFP in Varadero, a beach resort town near Havana.

After a two-week holiday with her family, she was due to fly home on Tuesday.

But that journey became more complicated after the European Union closed its airspace to Russian planes and companies as part of a raft of sanctions aimed at crippling the Russian economy.

Russia responded by barring its airspace to 35 European countries and Canada.

According to Juan Gonzalez, senior director for the western hemisphere on the US National Security Council, the Russian sanctions are deliberately aimed at also hit-

ting its allies.

“These sanctions against Russia are so robust that they will have an impact on those countries with economic links to Russia, and that is by design,” Gonzalez told Voz de America.

“Venezuela will start to feel this pressure, Nicaragua will feel this pressure and so will Cuba.”

He said US sanctions against 13 Russian financial institutions “cannot fail to impact any government or business that does business with these institutions.”

Experts believe that many more Latin American countries could also be affected if sanctions target Russian oil exports.

‘Another blow to tourism’ After the paradise of a Cuban holiday, Darovskaya admitted to concerns over her return.

“Of course we feel afraid... because noone wants war for their children,” she said.

The airspace closures have already started having an impact.

Russian airline Aeroflot on Monday suspended the sale of tickets to Cuba, Mexico and the US while Azur Air halted flights to Cuba, Mexico and the Dominican Republic, according to Prensa Latina.

It means the sight of masses of Russians flooding the beaches of Varadero may disappear.

“I don’t agree with the airspace closures but we’re not worried about staying with you because you’re very friendly,” said metal worker Dxana Lapushkina, 35.

“The war is something else, it is pain.”

Having already seen its tourism industry decimated by the pandemic, Cuba is now bracing itself for new economic pain.

The island nation witnessed an almost 200 percent increase in Russian tourists from 2020 to 2021 as the country reopened following COVID-enforced restrictions, making them the single largest group at more than 146,000.

That is largely due to the dramatic drop in Canadian visitors from over 413,000 in 2020 to just under 69,000 the next year.

Shaken by its worst economic crisis in 30 years, Cuba had been banking on tourism— and Russians in particular—to resurrect its economy.

But the war in Ukraine “will deal another blow to international tourism, for Cuba and the Caribbean region, increasing even more the fear of traveling,” said tourism expert Jose Luis Perello. AFP

Russian tourists tour the Saint Francisco de Asis Square in Old Havana in Cuba, February 28, 2022. The EU on Sunday announced swingeing new sanctions against Russia (the country with the highest number of tourists visiting the island), over its invasion of Ukraine, closing its airspace to Russian aircraft. AFP

ExxonMobil, Apple, Boeing break up ties with Russia NEW YORK, United States—Apple, ExxonMobil and Boeing announced Tuesday in rapid succession steps to withdraw or freeze business in Russia as more US corporate giants take action after the Ukraine invasion.

The moves—in diverse industries and following earlier announcements by Disney, Ford, Mastercard and others—highlight the rising economic toll on Russia after its assault on Ukraine unleashed massive sanctions across Western governments.

ExxonMobil will begin a phased withdrawal from the giant Sakhalin offshore oilfield that it has operated since 1995, saying “we deplore Russia’s military action that violates the territorial integrity of Ukraine and endangers its people.”

The US company operates in Russia on behalf of a consortium including Russian, Indian and Japanese companies, its only major project in Russia, after it pulled out of two joint ventures during the previous round of sanctions against Russia following its annexation of Crimea in 2014.

ExxonMobil’s move follows earlier decisions by British energy group BP and Shell to pull out of joint projects in Russia. France’s TotalEnergies said it would stay in Russia, but refrain from investing more money there.

ExxonMobil stressed that “the process to discontinue operations will need to be carefully managed and closely coordinated with the co-venturers in order to ensure it is executed safely.”

Earlier, Apple said it would halt all product sales in Russia and limit the use of Apple Pay and other services in the country.

“We are deeply concerned about the Russian invasion of Ukraine and stand with all of the people who are suffering as a result of the violence,” Apple said.

Ukraine’s defiant government, which has urged its people to battle Russian forces, has asked for help from all quarters, including Apple’s CEO Tim Cook.

“I appeal to you... to stop supplying Apple services and products to the Russian Federation, including blocking access to the Apple Store!” Ukraine’s digital minister Mykhailo Fedorov wrote in a letter he posted to Twitter Friday. AFP

Canada’s economy bounced back from worst plunge, grew 4.6% in ‘21 Manila

Standard OTTAWA, Canada—Canada’s economy grew 4.6 percent in 2021,

TODAY bouncing back from its worst plunge on record the previous year due to the pandemic, the government statistical agency said Tuesday.

Gross domestic product (GDP) rose 1.6 percent in the fourth quarter—or 6.7 percent at an annualized rate—as the economy was hit by a wave of the Omicron variant of COVID-19.

The quarterly advance was “a touch faster than expected,” Desjardins analyst Royce Mendes said in a research note, with the economy ending the year stronger after contracting 5.2 percent (revised from 5.4 percent) in 2020.

Several analysts also expressed surprise over preliminary data showing the economy managed to push ahead in January, led by retail and construction, despite the reintroduction of COVID lockdowns in some provinces.

Mendes said that momentum was likely to have accelerated in February and outpaced the Bank of Canada’s growth forecast for the first three months of this year, as regions moved to relax public health restrictions.

But he also warned of an economic fallout going forward from the war in Ukraine, mostly through higher energy prices, and with “supply chains in Europe already being impacted.”

Last year’s economic growth, according to Statistics Canada, was driven by business investment in engineering structures and home ownership transfer costs, as well as an accumulation of inventories.

Imports outpaced exports.

And household spending growth was moderated by rising prices.

Canadians spent significantly on food, beverages and clothing in 2021 as public health restrictions were eased and people ventured out from home more.

Spending on housing spiked as many people worked from home and saved from less travel, and mortgage rates stayed at record lows.

That pushed new home construction, resales and renovations to nearrecord levels, but also pushed up mortgage debt 10 percent, or an “unprecedented” Can$182 billion. AFP Republic of the Philippines Department of Finance Securities and Exchange Commission

NOTICE TO CLAIMANTS The Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) sends this last and final NOTICE to the claimants of Marino Olondriz y Cia, to file their respective claims with the Commission within thirty (30) days from the date of publication hereof.

Relative thereto, the claimants are informed that the claim filed with the Commission should be accompanied and substantiated by all relevant and supporting documents. Moreover, considering that the period to file a claim with Marino Olondriz y Cia has already prescribed, the claimant must also present to the Commission an evidence showing that the prescriptive period has been tolled as far as he/she is concerned.

The Commission will no longer entertain any claim filed after the thirty (30) day period, and will forthwith return the amounts that it is currently in its custody to Marino Olondriz y Cia. Pasay City. March 2, 2022.

(MS-MARCH 3, 2022)

Business

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

B4

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

PSE INDEX CLOSING Wednesday, March 2, 2022

-100.59 PTS. 7,304.02

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

1,430,157,351 101,144 7,784,647,848.10 65 128

UNCHANGED

44

F oreign E xchange R ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2022

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

51.2490

Japan

Yen

0.008704

0.4461

UK

Pound

1.332500

68.2893

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.127948

6.5572

Switzerland

Franc

1.088732

55.7964

Canada

Dollar

0.784929

40.2268

Singapore

Dollar

0.736865

37.7636

Australia

Dollar

0.724800

37.1453

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652661

135.9462

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266546

13.6602

Brunei

Dollar

0.734160

37.6250

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000070

0.0036

Thailand

Baht

0.030628

1.5697

UAE

Dirham

0.272287

13.9544

Euro

Euro

1.112900

57.0350

Korea

Won

0.000830

0.0425

China

Yuan

0.158446

8.1202

India

Rupee

0.013201

0.6765

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.238607

12.2284

New Zealand

Dollar

0.675500

34.6187

Taiwan

Dollar

0.035632

1.8261 Source: BSP

ST Telemedia, Ayala investing in Globe’s unit

Malacañang to issue EO on nuclear power usage M

By Alena Mae S. Flores

ALACAÑANG is expected to release shortly an executive order adopting the national position on nuclear technology that will pave the way for its inclusion in the power mix, energy officials said Wednesday.

“We are looking to ensure energy security. This administration has been pushing for nuclear. The President has signed EO that will include nuclear program for our energy development,” Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said during the Kapihan sa Manila Bay virtual forum.

“I don’t like to preempt things, but I believe we have the EO for that,” Cusi said.

The Department of Energy submitted to the Office of the President the results of the inter-government agency’s study

on the adoption of a national position on a nuclear energy program in December 2020.

“We heard that the President will make an announcement soon. We heard from the Office of the President that the policy is going to be approved soon,” Undersecretary Gerardo Erguiza Jr. said in a separate briefing.

Erguiza said the study was submitted more than a year ago, and “we heard that this might be favorably endorsed through an executive order,” he said.

President Rodrigo Duterte signed Executive Order No. 116 on July 24, 2020 providing for the creation of the Nuclear Energy Program Inter-Agency Committee chaired by DOE to conduct the study.

The committee was tasked to submit its recommendation on a national position on nuclear energy to the Office of the President.

Cusi is also pushing for the use of small modular reactors and is set sign a government-to-government cooperation

agreement in the US on nuclear power development this month.

He said Palawan, Cagayan and Sulu expressed willingness to host small modular reactors. “This will be a legacy of this admin,” he said.

SMRs are advanced nuclear reactors that have a power capacity of up to 300 MW per unit, or about a third of the generating capacity of traditional nuclear power reactors.

Cusi earlier said SMRs are a “game changer in the global energy landscape, as they could be utilized in locations that are not suitable for large nuclear power plants.

He also urged the public to be open to nuclear energy to help the country attain energy security and sustainability goals.

“I continue my call on my countrymen to open themselves to the idea.

Considering the potential of safely utilizing nuclear energy for the country’s power needs doesn’t mean that nuclear power plants will immediately come out of the woodwork,” Cusi said.

By Darwin G. Amojelar ST TELEMEDIA Global Data Centers and Ayala Corp. are investing in a wholly-owned subsidiary of Globe Telecom Inc. to develop, construct and operate data center facilities in the Philippines.

Under the agreement, STT GDC and AC will subscribe to new shares in KarmanEdge Inc., a 100-percent owned subsidiary of Globe that will house the carved-out data center business, which has the potential to expand by up to 100 megawatts in capacity in the mid to long term.

After the share subscription agreement, Globe will remain the largest shareholder with a 50-percent ownership, followed by STT GDC with 40 percent and AC taking up the balance.

The capital infusion by the new partners will result in a post-money valuation of KarmanEdge Inc. at over $350 million. Globe will receive proceeds of $100 million from the transaction with the remaining capital injected to be utilized by the business for future expansion and growth.

The transaction is expected to be completed in the first quarter of the year, subject to customary closing conditions, including relevant regulatory approvals.

“The Philippines is underserved market with huge demand for data center services. Together with STT GDC’s deep expertise and experience in developing, owning and operating data centers globally and AC’s significant business reach, relationships in the country and in the region, we believe this joint venture will be well-positioned to become the leader in the data center space in the Philippines,” Globe president and chief executive Ernest Cu said.

“Our partnership with STT GDC and AC will be a step forward in our ambition to transform the country’s digital infrastructure by building and operating the most energy efficient and connectivity-rich data centers in the country,” he said.

Globe, through wholly-owned subsidiary Innove Communications Inc., has been operating data centers in the country since 2001 and has since expanded its portfolio nationwide, serving both internal needs, local enterprises and global hyperscalers.

SME PARTNER.

Ninja Van Philippines’ executives gives an indepth look at how the company is putting more focus on customer needs to provide logistics excellence, satisfaction and a ‘Todo Hustle, No Hassle’ service that helps SMEs navigate the evolving e-commerce landscape and maximize opportunities from the country’s robust digital economy. The company shares its initiatives to help customers adapt to and thrive in the country’s growing digital economy during the DIGeCONOMY 2022, the first digital summit held by the tech-enabled express logistics company.

Vaccination and reforms to generate more jobs, says DOF

By Julito G. Rada THE Department of Finance said Wednesday it sees a bright employment outlook amid the government’s efforts to put in place vital economic reforms in tandem with the ramping up of COVID-19 vaccination program that will boost business confidence.

It said in an economic bulletin the amendments to the Foreign Investments Act, Public Service Act and the Retail Trade Liberalization Act would support job generation in the coming years.

“Medium to long term, the passage of CREATE [Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act] and the amendments to the Foreign Investments Act, Public Service Act and the Retail Trade Liberalization Act will help bring in more employers and generate more employment,” it said.

“The recent signing into law the amendments to the RTLA is a welcome development towards faster economic recovery and, ultimately, better employment opportunities,” it said.

CREATE or Republic Act 11534 was enacted by the Congress in response to the COVID-19 pandemic as a fiscal relief to domestic and foreign corporations doing business in the Philippines.

The DOF said the administration of vaccines “will help the country live with the virus”, but warned that “the country needs to stay alert and not let its guard down as the virus continues to mutate.”

Acting presidential spokesperson Karlo Nograles said in a briefing that 63,219,221 people already completed their primary vaccine series as of Feb. 28. Of the total of 135,747,294 vaccine doses administered nationwide, 68,808,944 individuals received their first dose, while 10,214,164 got their booster shots.

IN BRIEF DOE welcomes start of new oil exploration

FIRE SAFETY. A fire inspector from the Bureau of Fire Protection teaches Visayan Electric team members how to properly use a fire extinguisher. Aboitiz Power Corp. and its business units express support for National Fire Prevention Month in March, recognizing that while it is important to raise awareness on fire safety during this time, the mindset should be carried throughout the rest of the year. The company’s distribution utilities Visayan Electric and Davao Light, which are respectively the country’s second and third largest electricity distributors, as well as Cotabato Light and the Enerzone Group are at the forefront of promoting fire safety in the group.

Retail trade liberalization gets attention of foreign companies

By Othel V. Campos THE approval of the Retail Trade Liberalization Act sparked the interest of several foreign and multinational corporations, which are now exploring the improving business landscape in the Philippines, according to an official of the National Economic and Development Authority.

NEDA trade, services and industry staff director Bien Ganapin said in a forum organized by the British Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines that companies from Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, China, the United Arab Emirates and Denmark were interested investing in the Philippines following the enactment of the new retail law.

“These are actual potential leads waiting for the law to be finalized. Japan, for instance, they are interested in convenience store expansion and specialty restaurants. Indonesia is interested in pharmaceutical, and China in food service and motor vehicle operations,” he said.

South Korean companies are keen on bringing food franchises, while investors from the UAE are interested in medical equipment food retail segments. Companies from Denmark look at bringing in quality footwear, he said.

The amended RTLA reduced the minimum paid-up capitalization requirement for foreign retailers from $2.5 million to

P25 million, and lowered the investment requirement per store to P10 million.

BCCP president Chris Nelson said while there are foreign companies that automatically qualify to expand under the amended RTL, British firms would like to know if the law is flexible enough to allow existing businesses to have similar incentives offered to new entrants.

Among the existing retailers that prequalified under RTL or Republic Act No. 8762 are McDonald’s Philippines, Watson’s Personal Care Ltd., Louis Vuitton Philippines Inc., Lexus Manila, Forever 21 Philippines, Fast Retailing Philippines. Inc., Rustan’s Supercenters, Rose Pharmacy, Inc., CJO Shopping Corporatiin, H&M Philippines, Philippine Family Mart CVS, Mariwasa-Siam Ceramics, Decathlon Sports Philippines, Ikano Philippines Inc., Muji Philippines Corp., BF Jade E-services Phils., PG Lawson Company Inc., Mr. DIY, Adidas Philippines Inc., Motor Image Pilipinas Inc., Marionnaud Philippines Inc., Samsonite Philippines Inc., Diverse Retailiz, Johnson Health Tech Co., Philippines Ltd., Estee Lauder Corp. Beauty Inc. and Oni Global Distribution Corp.

Nelson said the implementing rules and regulation of the RTL should be clear on how other existing businesses can benefit from the law.

Robinsons Retail allots up to P6b to open more stores

By Jenniffer B. Austria ROBINSONS Retail Holdings Inc. of the Gokongwei Group plans to spend P4 billion to P6 billion in capital expenditures this year to fund store expansion.

RRHI said in a recent investors’ presentation it would add 140 to 150 stores in 2022. It is also looking at same-store-sales growth of 5 percent to 10 percent this year, rebounding from the 4.9-percent decline in 2021.

The company said as it continues to improve its online platform, it is targeting e-commerce sales to account for 5 percent to 7 percent of total revenues this year, up from 3.9 percent in 2021.

RRHI reported a net income of P4.5 billion in 2021, up 39.2 percent from 2021, as net sales rose 1.5 percent to P153.3 billion. It said fourth-quarter profit doubled to P1.8 billion from P825 million a year earlier.

Net sales climbed 7 percent to P44.4 billion in the last quarter of 2021, as increased mobility resulted in higher spending during the holiday season.

SSSG was at 2.3 percent in the fourth quarter on the strong performance of the drugstore, department store, convenience store and specialty store segments.

“The positive performance in the last quarter of 2021 shows how we came together as a company with unwavering dedication, amid the continued challenges of Covid-19 throughout the year,” said RRHI president and chief executive Robina Gokongwei Pe. “We entered 2022 driven by our constant goal to remain focused on our customers’ needs. We look forward to reinvigorated business activity as alert levels fall due to better responses to the pandemic, while the nation forges ahead with a clearer path towards a more open economy,” she said.

RRHI had 2,208 stores as of end2021.

THE Department of Energy on Wednesday welcomed the start of oil exploration program in the service contract of PXP Energy Corp. in the West Philippine Sea this year, saying it will help support the country’s energy security.

“As you know we have lifted the unilateral moratorium exploration in WPS, and we had issued service contracts for the exploration. I’m happy that SC 72, they’re going to start their exploration and, in fact, they are already acquiring the vessel,” Energy Secreraty Afonso Cusi said during the Kapihan sa Manila Bay virtual forum.

PXP Energy, the oil and gas exploration unit of Philex Mining Corp., announced last week that together with subsidiary Forum Energy Plc., it would drill two appraisal wells in the gas-rich Recto Bank this year.

“That is a good development, and we will continue even at Malampaya. We are doing the validation drilling so we will know how much more stock or gas we can withdraw from Malampaya,” Cusi said.

The reserves of Malampaya gas project in northwest Palawan, the country’s biggest natural gas producing asset, is expected to be depleted starting in 2024.

Alena Mae S. Flores

AirAsia PH ready for ‘revenge travel’

AIRASIA Philippines said Wednesday it is ready for a stronger travel demand in the coming months as the government placed Metro Manila and 38 other provinces under Alert Level 1 beginning March 1.

The airline said that even before the lowering of the alert level, it already recorded 145,978 seats sold for travel from March 1 to 31. This represented an increase of 131 percent from the same month of 2021.

“AirAsia Philippines attributes this significant increase to revenge traveling with relaxed travel protocols being implemented in most of its destinations. In fact, we are looking forward to sustaining full capacity in time for the various festivities in the different provinces we fly to,” AirAsia Philippines spokesperson Steve Dailisan said.

“Our contribution to our LGU destinations moving forward is to bring as many guests as much as we can with strict adherence to standard health and safety protocols,” he said. Darwin G. Amojelar

IHS Markit bullish on PH mineral output

DATA and information provider IHS Markit Philipines stressed the huge growth potential of the Philippine green metals production.

The global information expert said in the virtual forum Connect Session hosted by the Board of Investments that the Philippines is in a sweet spot when it comes to minerals production, especially on nickel and chromium amid the potential shortfall in other importing countries.

It said the Philippines is well-placed to be a major supplier and processor of chromium ore to the economic powerhouses if South Africa, the global leader in chromium ore production, applies taxes on chromium exports on high power costs.

“If there were to be disruptions to that supply, that would open up another big opportunity for the Philippines,” said IHS Markit associate director of pricing and purchasing Amanda Eglinton.

The Philippines may also take the lead in nickel ore production, as Indonesia banned the export of this mineral in 2020 to support its own processing industry, HIS Markit said. It said that in the absence of Indonesian nickel imports, China would increasingly depend on the Philippines to fill in the gap in its huge demand. Othel V. Campos

Sports

Balanced NorthPort assault keys win

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

C1

By Peter Atencio RETURNING veteran Robert Bolick Jr. and his four other teammates took turns in providing the needed points for NorthPort as Batang Pier pulled off a 116-103 swamping of the winless Blackwater Elite Bossing on Wednesday in the PBA Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

After a weeklong stint with the Gilas Pilipinas team in the second window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, Bolick reported back for NorthPort duty as he struck with a double-double performance of a game-high 30 points and 11 rebounds, to go with six assists and three steals.

The 26-year-old Bolick had ample help from import Jamel Artis, Arwind Santos, Jamie Malonzo and Jerrick Balanza from start to finish.

The 6’1” Bolick, who had seven points in the last 12 minutes, knocked in a triple, got a steal in the ensuing play and knocked in a layup in the last 41 seconds, handing the Batang Pier a 15-point spread in the closing minute of the fourth quarter, 116-101.

Batang Pier notched their fourth consecutive win to move up in the standings with a 4-5 win-loss slate.

“It’s a total team effort. Everybody stepped up,” said NorthPort coach Pido Jarencio.

Artis contributed 26 points for Batang Pier, which was outrebounded, 45-54, while Santos shot 21, Malonzo made 16 and Balanza added 10.

The 6’7” Artis had six points in the third, but it was his jumper in the final five seconds, which gave the Batang Pier their biggest lead, 95-75.

The 27-year-old Artis struck hardest in the second canto with 12 points, scoring two of three treys, which gave Batang Pier the chance to move away, 54-47, with 3:37 left.

Shawn Glover banged in 47 points for the winless Bossings.

Blackwater Bossing’s Shawn Glover rams into NorthPort’s Jamie Malonzo in a PBA Governors’ Cup game at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. The Batang Pier won, 116-103.

Jiu-jitsu, surfing athletes resort to fundraising to support plans

By Randy Caluag

D

UE to limited resources from the government, some Filipino athletes are now resorting to fund-raising activities to finance their competitions abroad.

Athletes from the national Jiu-Jitsu team, led by multi-titled Meggie Ochoa, will hold an online training on March 5.

The amount that will be raised will be used for their intensive training camp in San Diego, California, in preparation for the 31st Southeast Asian Games slated for May in Hanoi, Vietnam.

“Hello everyone! Inviting all of you to take part in our journey to the SEAGAMES ’22,” posted Ochoa, world champion and gold medalist in the 2019 SEA Games.

“You will have a chance to help make this happen through a simple online event where you can learn jiujitsu techniques and get to know more about our journey.”

To register for their event, just click bit. ly/jjfund22.

Roger Casugay, SEA Games gold medalist in surfing, has used the online fundraising platform to invite donors who can help finance his participation in the Mexilogfest, one of the biggest international surfing competitions.

Casugay said “being able to attend would mean I will be able to compete with some of the best in the world” in his post on gogetfunding.com The Mexilogfest will be held in Sayulita, Nayarit, Mexico on April 19 to 28, 2022 where the hundreds of top single-fin traditional longboarders from all over the world compete.

“It is no mystery that making this dream a reality will not be easy, but I am up for the challenge. That said, I

cannot do it without your support! The greatest expense will be airfare and baggage, but I must also acquire funds for airport transfer, accommodations, and food.”

The 27-year-old Casugay is widely acclaimed for his heroics in the 2019 SEA Games, when he saved a fellow competitor, Arip Nurhidayat from Indonesia, even at the risk of losing his chance to win the long-board medal.

For his unselfish act, he became the first Filipino to receive the Pierre de Coubertin Act of Fair Play Award of the International Fair Play Committee.

To help Casugay, you click: ht t ps://goget f unding.com/ help-roger-to-showcase-inmexico/?f bclid=IwAR17RJXJNshh_ ViE2fk_bnTJKDqBaFjYiqPxaSNOhMg88TAozCn7cUhaS-8 National athletes traditionally get financial support from the Philippine Sports Commission.

POC asks Patafa: Where’s the good faith?

WORLD-CLASS pole vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena’s issue with his national federation was elevated to the Court of Arbitration for Sport , prompting the Philippine Olympic Committee to question the motive of the filing of the case which it described as breaching integrity and putting a damper on a Philippine Senate-led effort to extinguish the crisis through a domestic effort.

“So what happened to the truce forged through the Senate? The mediation that both parties—Obiena and the Patafa (Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association) agreed on before our honorable Senators?” POC President Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino asked on Wednesday after the POC Executive Board’s special meeting on the CAS case.

Philip Ella Juico, president of the Patafa, filed a “statement of appeal” with the Lausanne-based CAS last February 11 with the POC and Obiena as respondents.

Juico filed the case four days after the Senate hearing where Obiena finally agreed to mediation and the Patafa declaring the same.

Senate Sports Committee Chair Christopher “Bong” Go presided over the hearing with Senators Francis “Tol”Tolentino, Pia Cayetano, Franklin Drilon and Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa in attendance.

“Where’s the good faith there?” Tolentino asked. “The POC thought they [Patafa] were for mediation and even EJ already agreed to the procedure.”

Tolentino added: “Filing a complaint against Obiena and the POC means the Patafa is included in the complaint because Patafa is a member of the organization.”

The Executive Board, in a hybrid meeting at the Knights Templar Ridge Hotel in Tagaytay City, authorized Tolentino to hire a lawyer and appoint a CAS juror, as well as appropriate still undetermined fees for the defense.

All except Chairman Steve Hontiveros and First Vice President Al Panlilio attended the meeting, with Atty.

Charlie Ho of netball who ran under Juico’s ticket in the November 2020 POC elections filing the motion for the appropriation of lawyers and CAS fees.

According to POC Chief Legal Counsel Atty.

Wharton Chan, Juico filed the complaint through his lawyers, the Aranas Cruz Araneta Parker & Faustino Law Offices. The complaint cited the POC’s breach of jurisdiction on the Obiena issue, dismissal of the case Obiena filed with the POC through its Athletes Commission and withdrawal of the persona non grata sanction on Juico.

Chan said the POC could not be cited on issues over jurisdiction on the Obiena case, saying “the POC is not a judicial body but a corporate one and the focal issue is on the attitude and unethical conduct” on Obiena’s complaint of harassment against the Patafa.

“The CAS asked for more evidences from the Patafa such as proof of notices, among others,” Chan said. “ The International Olympic Committee created the CAS “to bring about the resolution of sports-related disputes which are submitted to it through ordinary arbitration or through appeal against the decisions of sports bodies or organizations.”

ACES launches ‘Atletang Ayala’ to support Filipino Olympic hopefuls THE recently-launched Ayala Center for Excellence in Sports on Wednesday announced the creation of the Atletang Ayala program which has been designed to provide holistic support to the country’s Olympic hopefuls.

Under the Atletang Ayala program, participating Ayala Group companies will provide full-salaried employment opportunities at part-time hours to Filipino national athletes training for the 2022 Asian Games and the 2024 Olympics. This arrangement will allow the athletes the flexibility they need to fulfill their grueling training and competition requirements while receiving a steady income. Athletes selected for the program will also be given free access to the world-class training facilities of the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub. Finally, ACES has partnered with De La Salle University to offer free enrollment in a selection of courses for Atletang Ayala athletes who wish to continue their education.

“The Ayala Group of Companies has long recognized the special qualities athletes bring to the workplace.

A number of our executives in fact

The Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub is a complete destination designed specifically to provide an effective and complete training experience for athletes

competed as national athletes, and they have been noteworthy for their commitment, resilience and ability to work in teams. At the Ayala Group we will continue to look for ways to support our national athletes so that hope-

fully we can encourage more Filipinos to pursue their sports dreams,” said Jan Bengzon, ACES Program Director.

“We are excited to open the program application process to all qualified national athletes and look forward to work-

ing with them to advance their athletic careers towards qualifying for the upcoming 2022 Southeast Asian Games and Asian Games, and hopefully the 2024 Olympics as well. At the same time, we would also like to work with them to advance their careers beyond sports,” he added.

The Atletang Ayala program will be launched after it has identified eight athletes for its inaugural class. All applicants are required to be members of the pool of national athletes in their national sports associations that are competing in medal sports at the 2024 Olympics. Atletang Ayala athletes will be offered a yearly contract that provides for the above benefits and can be renewed annually until the 2024 Olympics, contingent on the attainment of clear performance measures.

“The success of this program will not be determined by the number of athletes who bring back medals, but by the impact these young men and women will have in their communities as they aspire to reach the pinnacle of their respective sports on the global stage,” Bengzon added.

Roger Casugay

Dela Cruz tandem tries to keep title in SEAG archery

By Peter Atencio THE husband-and-wife archery team of Paul and Rachelle Anne dela Cruz is returning to the Southeast Asian Games set May 12 to 25 in Vietnam.

Paul and Rachelle will have a chance to defend their title in the mixed team event, after they made it through the final selection process two weeks ago in Marikina City.

“This is about new learnings for us, in getting the goal and in qualifying for the SEA Games again,” said Paul, some two years after he and Rachelle won the lone archery gold medal for Team Philippines in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

The pair spent most of the time training under a bubble and getting their acts together in the compound event, while training under a bubble for the last two years.

Many members of the national squad prepared to qualify for the SEA Games at the F.R. Sevilla archery range in Quezon City, or while in a bubble in Dumaguete City.

Rachelle said in a recent radio interview that there’s almost no pressure for them to perform better, just like in 2019.

“It’s just the same as 2019. We feel that everytime we compete, it could be our last. So we just have to be better than 100%,” said Rachelle.

Paul made it to the men’s compound team with Johann Olano and Flor Matan, while Rachelle is linking up with veteran Jennifer Chan and Andrea Robles in the women’s side.

Jason Feliciano, Jonathan Reaport and Girvin Garcia are listed in the men’s Olympic recurve, while sisters Gabrielle and Pia Bidaure are included in the women’s Olympic recurve, with Phoebe Amistoso.

C2

Sports

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

Russian NHL star Ovechkin takes heat over Putin support LOS ANGELES—An innocent athlete placed in an impossible position?

Or a craven apologist for a brutal authoritarian strongman?

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has left National Hockey League superstar Alex Ovechkin struggling to defend his long record of support for Vladimir Putin as Russian athletes face mounting calls to be cast into the sporting wilderness.

The Stanley Cup-winning Washington Capitals captain -- a beloved figure amongst sports fans in the US capital where he has played for the past 17 years -- has found himself in the eye of a geopolitical storm since Russia launched its military action against Ukraine last week.

The 36-year-old Ovechkin has been an enthusiastic and vocal supporter of Putin over the years, even going so far as to launch a website called “PutinTeam” in 2017 which exhorted compatriots to unite behind the Russian leader.

“I have never hidden my attitude towards our president, always supporting him,” Ovechkin wrote at the time.

“I am confident that there are many of us, supporting Vladimir Putin. So let’s unite and show everyone a united and strong Russia!”

Ovechkin’s Instagram feed carries several photos of Putin. As of Tuesday, Ovechkin’s profile picture on the social media account is a photo of him with the Russian leader, an avid ice hockey fan.

But that full-throated endorsement of Putin has returned to haunt Ovechkin since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has triggered global outrage and a cascade of economic, diplomatic and sporting sanctions.

Putin ‘my president’ In an uncomfortable press conference last Friday, Ovechkin made a plea for “peace” but pointedly did not criticise Putin.

“Please, no more war,” Ovechkin said. “It doesn’t matter who is in the war—Russia, Ukraine, different countries—I think we have to live in peace and a great world.”

Asked specifically if his support for Putin had diminished since the invasion, Ovechkin—whose parents, wife and children are in Russia —declined to be drawn.

“Well, he is my president. But how I said, I am not in politics. I am an athlete and I hope everything is going to be done soon.”

“I’m Russian. It’s something I can’t control. It’s not in my hands. I hope it’s going to end soon.”

But the pleas for peace failed to impress sections of the North American media.

Several commentators characterised Ovechkin’s remarks as “mealymouthed”, arguing that as one of the highest-profile Russian athletes in the world, his voice could influence change.

An editorial on the SB Nation sports website branded Ovechkin a “sycophantic coward”.

“For Ovechkin to say he’s helpless is a disingenuous attempt to downplay his importance,” the editorial said.

“As the most famous Russian athlete playing in a western market, who is venerated at home for playing the nation’s most popular sport, he could make a difference by speaking out —he chose not to.” AFP

Russia’s Daniil Medvedev returns the ball to Spain’s Rafael Nadal during their Mexico ATP Open 500 men’s singles semi-final tennis match at the Arena GNP, in Acapulco, Mexico. AFP

Russian players still allowed to compete in tennis events

L

ONDON—Russian and Belarusian tennis players will be allowed to continue competing in ATP and WTA tournaments and Grand Slam events, the sport’s governing bodies said on Tuesday.

A joint statement from the ATP, WTA, ITF and the organizers of the four Grand Slam competitions said Russians and Belarusians can keep competing in professional events “at this time”, despite Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

However, they will not be allowed to compete under the name or flag of Russia or Belarus.

The ITF have suspended both countries from team events, the Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup. And the ATP and WTA tournaments set to be held in Moscow in October have been suspended.

The International Olympic Committee on Monday urged sports federations and organizers to exclude Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials from international events.

FIFA and UEFA followed suit by banning Russia from international football tournaments with World Athletics and cycling’s UCI among the many governing bodies also to implement a ban.

“A deep sense of distress, shock and

sadness has been felt across the entire tennis community following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in the past week,” said the joint statement.

“Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine, and we commend the many tennis players who have spoken out and taken action against this unacceptable act of aggression. We echo their calls for the violence to end and peace to return.”

However, the decision to stop short of an outright ban is a controversial one.

Part of the IOC’s reasoning for their recommendation was the impact the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes could have on Ukrainians competing.

World number 15 Elina Svitolina had said she would not compete against Russian or Belarusian opponents unless all national emblems, flags and colours were removed.

Svitolina is due to play Russian Anastasia Potapova in the first round of the Monterrey Open in Mexico later on Tuesday.

‘Complete fear’ The ruling means new men’s world number one Daniil Medvedev is free to compete on tour.

Russia’s Medvedev on Monday became the first man since 2004 outside the game’s “Big Four” of Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Andy Murray to occupy the top spot.

Three of the women’s top 20, Belarus’ Aryna Sabalenka and Victoria Azarenka and Russian Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, would have been affected by a ban.

Medvedev is one of many Russian and Belarusian tennis stars that have used their profile on social media to plead for peace.

“I want to ask for peace in the world, for peace between countries,” he posted on Sunday.

World number six Andrey Rublev signed the on-court camera lens “no war please” on his way to winning in Dubai last week.

“I have represented Russia all my life.

This is my home and my country. But now I am in complete fear,” Pavlyuchenkova posted in a lengthy statement.

“I’m just an athlete who plays tennis.

I am not a politician, not a public figure, I have no experience in this. I can only publicly disagree with these decisions taken and openly talk about it.

“Stop the violence, stop the war.” AFP

Doncic sparks Mavs; LA slump continues

LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers plays defense on Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks during the game at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. AFP

LOS ANGELES—Luka Doncic scored 25 points as the Dallas Mavericks sent the Los Angeles Lakers spinning to a third straight defeat on Tuesday.

Doncic sparked a fourthquarter fightback for Dallas, transforming a six-point deficit with just over seven minutes remaining into a five-point lead to help set up a 109104 Mavs win at the Crypto.com Arena.

It was another frustrating outing for LeBron James and the Lakers, who had battled back from a 21-point first-half deficit to take the lead after outscoring Dallas 31-14 in the third quarter.

Doncic was backed by point guard Jalen Brunson with 22 points while Dorian FinneySmith added 16.

The Mavericks improved to 37-25 to remain in fifth place in the Western Conference standings.

James led the scoring for the Lakers with 26 points, 12 rebounds and five assists while veteran Carmelo Anthony added 20 for the home side.

The loss saw the Lakers fall to 27-34 in the conference standings.

In Minneapolis, Karl-Anthony Towns scored 39 points as the Minnesota Timberwolves trounced a depleted Golden State Warriors 129-114.

Towns shot 14 of 22 from the field and grabbed nine rebounds while D’Angelo Russell added 22 points and Malik Beasley 20 from the bench at the Target Center.

“Just trying to come out here and lead by performance, and do what I can,” Towns said after the win.

The Warriors were led by Stephen Curry’s 34 points, but struggled to overcome the absence of Draymond Green, Klay Thompson and Andre Iguodala.

Minnesota improved to 34-29 with the win while the Warriors remain second in the Western Conference standings on 43-19, trailing leaders

Now is best time to play PUBG MOBILE PLAYERUNKNOWN’S Battlegrounds MOBILE or PUBG MOBILE continues to maintain longevity that keeps its loyal fan base.

Made optimal after each release, its user-centered game features, upcoming partnerships, and thriving community of gamers, solidifies PUBG MOBILE’s reputation as one of the first and best Battle Royale games out there, not only for veterans but for newcomers as well.

With significant game accolades under its name, being the highest-grossing game of 2020 with $2.6 billion (over PHP 133 billion) in revenue, and the 2018 Golden Joystick Awards winner of the Mobile Game of The Year category, new gamers have jumped in to try the PUBG MOBILE themselves. However, its powerful features and content often confuse fresh blood on where to start, how to get the most out of their gaming experience, and why create a gaming journey with PUBG MOBILE. Newcomer-Friendly Features and Updates PUBG MOBILE provides an engaging

step-by-step tutorial of the game basics, covering all the essential controls inside the combat zone, paired with generous rewards upon completion. It also offers features that provide PUBG MOBILE neophytes a smooth experience adjusting in-game and increasing their survivability on the battlefield after the tutorial phase.

The Recall Tower is one of those features.

Added in the new Aftermath classic mode map, it gives players another chance to live.

Teammates knocked down in water also now have a chance to be revived instead of instantly being eliminated from the battle.

PUBG MOBILE has also separated Ranked and Unranked modes. Before the update, players earned or lost rank points based on their performance in every match, determining their overall spot in the leaderboards. With the Unranked option, players can work on their skills and grind for levels and certain rewards without worrying about being demoted or hindering others from reaching higher leagues.

Despite debates on its effects on the game,

The new 8v8 Team Santorini Map

the newly-implemented rank restriction prevents new gamers from being gunned down by veterans in every lobby.

Collaboration with Fan Favorites PUBG MOBILE sets itself apart from com-

petitors by bringing exciting collaborations to their growing community fanbase—covering music, sports, movies, and even automotive— combining maximized gaming experience and proactive support to fan favorites.

Djokovic splits from long-time coach Vajda PA R I S — N o v a k Djokovic’s t u rbulent st ar t to 2022 took another t wist Wed nesday as the 20-time Grand Slam champion revealed he had split from his long-time coach Marian Vajda after last year’s ATP Finals.

Djokovic was deported on the eve of the Australian Open in January and on Monday lost his number one ranking to Russian Daniil Medvedev.

“Marian has been by my side during the most important and memorable moments in my career,” said the 34-year-old Djokovic on his official website.

Djokovic began working with the Slovakian coach since he was a teenager in 2006, though they split for a year in 2017.

“Together we have achieved some incredible things and I am very grateful for his friendship and dedication over the last 15 years.”

Vadja stopped working with Djokovic following the tour finals in Turin in November.

He had not been seen as part of Djokovic’s backroom team in Melbourne before the Serbian player was deported in a visa row over his Covid vaccination status.

“During my time with Novak, I have been lucky to watch him transform into the player he is today,” said Vajda.

“I will look back on our time together with immense pride.” AFP

Phoenix by 6.5 games.

“We were really short-handed obviously, but we’ve just got to keep going,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said.

“We’re going to be fine long-term. I’m excited about our team and where we can go. But we’ve just got to weather this storm.”

In Boston, Jayson Tatum’s 33-point display helped the Celtics to a 107-98 victory over the Atlanta Hawks.

Derrick White and Grant Williams had 18 each off the bench as the Celtics overturned a 17-point second-quarter deficit to claim the win.

In Toronto, the Raptors staged a fourthquarter rally to send Brooklyn stumbling to a 109-108 defeat.

The Raptors outscored the Nets 28-19 in the fourth quarter to claim victory after having trailed by 10 points at the end of the third.

Gary Trent Jr. led a balanced offensive performance from Toronto with 24 points.

All five starters made double digits, with Scottie Barnes and Pascal Siakam adding 18 points each.

“I’m really proud that we just hung in there and stayed with it when it was kind of tough,” Toronto coach Nick Nurse said. AFP The game has partnered up with SpiderMan: No Way Home, enabling gamers the chance to swing through the combat zone using web-shooters while wearing a SpiderMan tracksuit and pitted its players, Godzilla and Kong, against Mechagodzilla in the game’s first-ever Player vs. Environment (PvE) mode known as Titans: Last Stand.

PUBG MOBILE’s other explosive collaborations in the previous years include Korean global girl group BLACKPINK; British-Norwegian DJ, YouTuber, and record producer Alan Walker; automotive company Tesla; League of Legends’ Arcane; as well as the classic anime title Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya.

PUBG MOBILE’s most recent partnership is with Jujutsu Kaisen, the beloved Japanese adventure manga series written and illustrated by Gege Akutami.

It lets players meet and play as their favorite characters Yuji Itadori, Megumi Fushiguro, Nobara Kugisaki, and Satoru Gojo through Cosplay Sets for use and collection in-game. It also introduces ‘Cursed Corpse Grenades,’ which summon ‘Boss Cursed Corpses’ that drop supplies when defeated.

Entertainment

Nickie Wang,, Editor Patricia Taculao, Editorial Assistant E-mail: lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

Gigi De Lana kicks off concert tour at Resorts World Manila RISING star and new generation pop-rock diva Gigi De Lana and her band The Gigi Vibes are kicking off their Domination tour with ABS-CBN Events’ first on-ground concert in two years happening at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Resorts World Manila on March 5.

The Manila leg will be followed by their Middle East tour as they are scheduled to rock the Jubilee stage at the Expo 2020 in Dubai on March 12 in partnership with

DTI, the National Theatre of Abu Dhabi on March 18, and Crowne Plaza Bahrain on March 25 in partnership with Filipino Club Bahrain.

Domination will also have a special streaming on KTX.ph on April 23 featuring the Manila concert and snippets of the Middle East tour.

“I’m looking forward to singing in front of them, looking through their eyes, and telling stories through my songs.

That’s the best feeling every

time I sing,” Gigi expressed her excitement to sing live audience for her first major concert.

Gigi has been on a roll since becoming a viral sensation in 2021. She just released her selftitled debut album featuring her hit single “Sakalam.” She also recently gave life to “Nasa’yo Ako,” the official soundtrack of “Viral Scandal” and “Bakit Nga Ba Mahal Kita,” which serves as the OST of “Hello Heart.”

Tickets for the Newport Performing Arts Theater are still

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Pop-rock diva Gigi De Lana

up for grabs via Ticketworld at P8,000 (platinum), P7,000 (SVIP), P6,000 (VIP), P5,000 (gold), P3,500 (silver), and P1,500 (bronze).

Meanwhile, online viewers can purchase tickets on ktx.ph at P695 (SVIP), P495 (VIP), and P195 (regular) for the April 23 special streaming.

Gigi De Lana and The Gigi Vibes: Domination is happening this Saturday, 8:00 p.m., at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.

‘Sing Galing’ makes history with back-to-back grand finals GMA’s ‘eLeksyonSerye’ hopes to equip voters with the right information for the upcoming 2022 elections

GMA rolls out digital voters’ education series #eLeksyonSerye

A FEW months before the country selects its next set of leaders, GMA News and Public Affairs Digital Media takes electoral literacy to another level as it rolls out its voters’ education campaign “#eLeksyonSerye.”

With more than 172 million followers across popular social media platforms, GMA News and Public Affairs utilizes a multimedia approach to equip voters with the right information for the upcoming Eleksyon 2022.

“This digital effort continues our commitment to the ‘Dapat Totoo’ campaign for Eleksyon 2022, in line with our goal of empowering Filipino voters to choose the right leaders that will chart the future of our country at this critical juncture in history,” said Marissa L. Flores, Sr. Vice President for GMA News and Public Affairs.

For its maiden season, #eLeksyonSerye kicks off with the #eLeksyon2022 Quiz. Using Facebook (https://bit.ly/ eLeksyon2022QuizFB) and IG (https://bit. ly/eLeksyon2022QuizIG) filters powered

by GMA New Media, Inc. and fun duets on TikTok, the #eLeksyon2022 Quiz challenges netizens about their actual knowledge on elections. How well do they know their rights and their responsibilities as voters? How familiar are they with the country’s political system? Their score will determine if they are indeed #Eleksyon2022 ready.

To make it more exciting and engaging, GMA News reporters, public affairs hosts, radio personalities, and celebrities are joining the challenge as well.

The #eLeksyon2022 Quiz is also available on GMA News Online via https:// www.gmanetwork.com/news/publicaffairs/

content/821816/e-leksyon-2022-quiz/story/ The largest news creator on TikTok Philippines, GMA Public Affairs leverages its huge following to deliver facts in a fun, digestible manner. Partnering with one of the fastest-growing social media platforms, TikTok, the #eLeksyonSerye: Voters’ Education Series puts the spotlight on misinformation and disinformation, spotting fake news, and responsible social media usage.

In 2021, GMA News and Public Affairs became the largest news creator on TikTok in the Philippines. As of February 28, its TikTok accounts have reached a total of 1.7 billion views with over 90 million cumulative likes. GMA Public Affairs alone has over 2.5 million followers, 27.9 million likes, and 471 million total views.

GMA News, on the other hand, already has over 824,000 followers, with 9.3 million likes and over 222 million views.

And as Eleksyon 2022 draws near, #eLeksyonSerye also intensifies its information-dissemination campaign via its third and fourth seasons. Each season further encourages and empowers voters to advocate truth in selecting the next leaders– Dapat Totoo–because each vote affects the country’s future.

“The campaign showcases our innovation and reach on digital platforms. We engage users in a fun way while underscoring the main purpose of our elections: choosing leaders who will come up with meaningful policies that will affect the lives of every Filipino,” said Jaemark Tordecilla, Sr. Asst. Vice President for GMA News and Public Affairs Digital Media.

2021 Bb. Pilipinas bags Anvil award for Araneta Group, BPCI

The 10 finalists of ‘Sing-Galing’

By Patricia Taculao

V

IDEOKE or karaoke is a big part of Philippine culture, with Filipinos celebrating a myriad of events with a good session of note belching and musical fun. TV5’s Sing Galing, the original videoke kantawanan ng bansa, honors this tradition by incorporating elements of videoke in a funfilled singing competition where talented singers and celebrities showcase their talent while enjoying themselves.

As Sing Galing’s back-to-back finale draws near, TV5 planned several firsts and surprises to culminate the program’s successful run.

On March 5 and 12, the singing competition will celebrate the finals of the Ultimate Pa-Sing-Katan for the celebrity edition and Kantastic Finale for the regular edition, respectively.

TV5 partnered with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) to hold the grand back-toback finale at the restored Manila Metropolitan Theater. With this partnership, Sing Galing is the first TV

show in Philippine history to celebrate a back-to-back finale at the renowned theater.

MET reopened after 25 years since its closure and now boasts of reconstructed furnishings that show the theater’s splendor.

Its first finale on March 5 features Sing Galing’s Sing-lebrity edition’s grand finalists, including Aljur Abrenica, Pepe Herrera, Patrick Quiroz, Boobsie Wonderland, Jerald Napoles, and Chuckie Dreyfus. Aside from battling each other in the contest proper, each celebrity contestant also chose their respective “bida-ficiaries,” who will receive a portion of their cash prize.

Since Sing Galing’s back-to-back grand finales have already set the tone for greatness by working with the NCCA for their venue, TV5 also tapped Facebook to become the first television show in the Philippines to utilize FB Messenger as the official voting platform of the show.

Fans and audiences, which the show fondly calls “Ka-awitbahays,” can vote for the Ultimate “BidaOke Singlebrity and Ultimate BidaOke Star” for free through the show’s Facebook page, thus adding to their favorite celebrity’s chances of winning.

There are three ways that the public can access this broadcast innovation.

The first is by scanning the QR code seen on-air during the show or online to redirect them to Sing Galing’s

(From left) ‘Sing-Galing’ celebrity contestants Aljur Abrenica, Chuckie Dreyfus, and Boobsie Wonderland

Facebook Messenger. Next is by typing “VOTE” as a comment on Sing Galing, and lastly, by going to the Messenger app to search for the Sing Galing profile and cast their votes.

Ka-awitbahays can begin voting during the live shows when the polls will open.

By March 12, Sing-Galing will hold its Kantastic Finale again at the MET, including members of Team Galing, Kim Macaraig, Regielyn Fernandez, Jean Jordan, Jamaica Lamit, Dennis Santos, Mari Mar Tua, Kit Inciong, Cris Cerbito, Camille Peralta, and Myca Capili. But that’s not the only surprise that audiences can expect from the show.

The second Saturday of the month also marks the Pambansang Araw ng Videoke, an event that the NCCA supports as it highlights the Filipino

culture of coming together through good music and genuine fun.

Hollywood joins Russia blockade over Ukraine invasion The 2021 Binibining Pilipinas pageant wins the Silver Anvil award for the category PR Tools Exhibit and Special Event-Beauty Pageant

THE latest Binibining Pilipinas edition gave Araneta Group and Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI) their first Anvil award for their modern approach and redefined take on the annual beauty pageant.

In the 57th Anvil Awards ceremony held virtually on February 24, the 2021 Binibining Pilipinas beauty pageant was announced as a Silver Anvil awardee under the category “PR Tools - Exhibit and Special Event-Beauty Pageant”. It is among the 99 entries shortlisted out of the total 540 public relations (PR) programs submitted.

The award-giving body recognizes the innovations introduced by the Araneta Group and BPCI to the country’s most prestigious beauty pageant during the pandemic. Modern technology was utilized for creative executions such as the national costume augmented reality, multimedia advocacy promotions, mobile app voting, virtual pre-pageant presentations, and the grand coronation night which was broadcast live for the first time across multiple platforms.

All these initiatives brought Binibining Pilipinas closer to fans and supporters

despite the limitations and restrictions due to the health crisis. “With the shift to digital, Bb. Pilipinas attracted an even larger fanbase, as evidenced by the growth of its social media reach, engagement, and impressions. Views of all Bb. Pilipinas activities reached a cumulative total of 1.03 million. The Grand Coronation Night alone logged 2.3 million views and earned 4.5 million total impressions. It also proved to be one of the biggest events of the year, dominating headlines and earning media values worth more than P45.8 Million,” said in the official entry submitted by Araneta Group and BPCI. Presented by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP), the Anvil Awards are annually given to outstanding PR programs in the Philippines.

BPCI has officially opened its search for the 2022 pageant. Aspiring Binibinis have untilApril 8 to send their application to bpci@ aranetagroup.com or to the BPCI Secretariat at the South Gate entrance of Smart Araneta Coliseum. Forms are available for download at the official Binibining Pilipinas website.

HOLLYWOOD is joining the blockade of Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine, with Paramount on Tuesday becoming the latest studio to pull its upcoming films from Russian theaters.

The West has closed ranks since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered his troops across the border, imposing a phalanx of financial sanctions intended to raise the cost of military action and put pressure on the Russian economy.

Airspace has been closed to Russian planes, high-tech exports have been curtailed and the sporting world has yanked fixtures from Russian soil, or ejected Russian teams from competition.

Now the United States’ movie-making capital is climbing aboard, with major studios saying they will not release new films in Russia.

Paramount’s pause, which will immediately affect titles including The Lost City and Sonic the Hedgehog 2, comes on the heels of similar announcements by Disney, Sony and Warner Bros.

Those decisions will affect titles including highly anticipated The Batman, which debuts in the United States on Friday.

“As we witness the ongoing tragedy in Ukraine, we have decided to pause the theatrical release of our upcoming films in Russia,” a

Paramount Pictures spokesman was quoted as saying by US media.

“We stand by all those impacted by the humanitarian crisis across Ukraine, Russia, and our international markets and will continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds.”

By global standards, Russia is not a huge market for Tinseltown, though big budget releases fare quite well there — Spider-Man: No Way Home took a healthy $44 million at the Russian box office, trade title Variety reported.

The entertainment industry has been hostile to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

British actor Benedict Cumberbatch this week used the occasion of receiving his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame to call for action to halt Moscow’s advance.

Germany’s Munich Philharmonic fired Russian conductor and Kremlin loyalist Valery Gergiev on Tuesday after he failed to denounce the invasion.

Organizers of the Eurovision Song Contest have said they will not allow Russia to participate in this year’s edition, and punk-pop trio Green Day announced this week that they were canceling a series of shows in Moscow “in light of current events.” AFP

‘The Batman,’ starring Robert Pattinson (left) and Zoe Kravitz, is among the upcoming films that will be made unavailable to Russian theaters

Nickie Wang, Editor Patricia Taculao, Editorial Assistant E-mail: lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

Life Award-winning actress Dimples Romana

TV icon Vic Sotto takes care of his health with the dietary supplement and coffee made from Mangosteen Xanthone

Celebrities’ partners in health and wellness

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OU may have realized by now that you can’t keep a doctor away with just “an apple a day”, especially during this pandemic. And no matter how overly used this phrase is, “health is wealth.”

In separate virtual events, seasoned TV host and comedian Vic Sotto and actress Dimples Romana introduced to the public the brands that aid them in taking care of their health.

The boss of Boss Vic TV icon Vic Sotto officially endorses Boss Max 3, a dietary supplement and coffee made from Mangosteen Xanthone, a locally known fruit that offers a long list of health benefits.

Championing the taglines “Kalusugan mo ang bossing mo” and “Kape ng mga sikat!”, BossMax3 is ready to prove and compete in the market of dietary supplement and coffee with its greatest

weapon—the organically-produced Mangosteen Xanthone which helps improve health or overall wellness.

Mangosteen, a commonly abundant tree in tropical countries like the Philippines, makes this antioxidant more accessible and more affordable.

With the aim to improve and help Filipinos build a healthy lifestyle efficiently and effectively, Corbridge Group Philippines is clever to expand Boss Max 3’s product line from capsules to coffee with two flavors: Creamy and Strong.

Apart from the growing health consciousness that drives Filipino

consumers to make better dietary supplement choices, another lifestyle trend among Filipinos is the heavy reliance on healthier and more plant-based products rather than pure chemically-induced ones.

Since more adult Filipinos are likely to consume one capsule of supplements a day, BossMax3 is perfectly safe to nourish themselves at their convenience.

“Since 2020, all our plans are adjusted, and we are scared of Vic Sotto with a mug of Boss Max 3 what’s happening because of this her time as an actress and as a mother virus. We need to be keen on what vitamins and supplements to take to while ensuring the safety of her family ensure that we are equipped with the in these trying times.

An awarding-winning and right amount of nutrients and helps us boost our immune system,” the Eat internationally acclaimed dramatic Bulaga host said during the virtual actress who has starred in a steady string event that launched him as the brand’s of blockbuster films and top-rating TV series such as One More Chance, The endorser.

“That’s why I’m excited to share Mall, The Merrier, Block Z, Bagani, with everyone my latest partner in and Kadenang Ginto, as well as her conquering life and keeping my health current primetime hit Viral Scandal, at the topmost priority,” Sotto said of the Romana is also a mother of two kids whom she considers as her top priorities brand that he is now endorsing. despite her hectic schedule as one of ••• today’s most in-demand and bankable The power of natural Santé International continues to dramatic actresses in the industry.

“I am so grateful for being able to advocate the transformative power of all things natural in improving the lives work and have endorsement deals of countless people as it opens the first because these are really very uncertain quarter of 2022 introducing Dimples times,” Romana said during the brand’s Romana as the newest endorser of its recent virtual junket.

“I believe that everything could be Retail and Wholesale division’s flagship balanced with the right blend of time brand, Santé Barley Max. Like all Pinoy moms, Romana juggles management. Work is essential but my

Why people with comorbidities shouldn’t skip doctor visits THE situation around the pandemic is rapidly changing, but some things remain the same—people with comorbidities are still at the highest risk. This is why they need proper regular medical attention now more than ever.

Noel Rosas, MD from the Section of Cardiology at top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) reiterates that the elderly and those with chronic health conditions are more likely to get severe symptoms from COVID-19, increasing their risk of hospitalization and even death. “Since you already have a compromised immune status, it will be more difficult for you to fight this new disease,” he adds. “It’s very important that you continue your treatment plans and medications, and follow your doctors’ advice on managing your disease amid the pandemic.”

Dr. Rosas says that people with comorbidities should not hesitate to go to their routine doctor appointments or hospital visits as scheduled, despite the threat of COVID-19. “Delaying routine medical care can lead to complications that will affect your quality of life and worsen any existing condition, making it difficult for your healthcare providers to treat your disease or its complications later on.”

Given the current challenges, Dr. Rosas recognizes and understands the hesitation about going to a healthcare facility to get checked. This is why MakatiMed has implemented stringent hospital safety

protocols including those who are going to outpatient centers and doctors’ clinics. “We know that the current situation can be a bit discouraging. We understand the fear of going out of your homes. That’s why on our part as medical practitioners, we really made it a point to do our best to keep our patients safe while getting medical care,” the doctor says.

For regular checkups or outpatient procedures, patients and their companions need to set an appointment first and answer a screening form online or through MakatiMed OnCall or the clinic secretary. Only one doctor, one patient, one companion (for pediatric, geriatric, and people with special needs), and one nurse/secretary are allowed inside the clinic at any time. The clinics have been modified with acrylic barriers and others with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters for the mutual protection of the doctor and patient. Outpatient procedure areas are also disinfected between each patient use. For their utmost protection and peace of mind, MakatiMed has separate areas and pathways for non-COVID-19 patients.

Apart from implementing stringent hospital safety protocols, MakatiMed has also created other safe ways for those with comorbidities to get the proper medical attention. For those who are immunocompromised, Dr. Rosas says that it’s also more practical and safe for people with preexisting conditions to stay at home as much as possible and

People with comorbidities need medical attention now more than ever

limit interactions with other people. If an inperson appointment is not required, patients with comorbidities can keep in touch with their doctors through MakatiMed’s TeleMD Service.

MakatiMed has extended its laboratory services by bringing them right to their doorstep. Instead of going to the hospital for blood collection, they can now simply book for a Laboratory Home Service so medical experts will just go to their house for the procedure.

Dr. Rosas is also reminding them to be mindful of their supply of medications. “You are also advised to have at least a 30-day supply of prescription and non-prescription medicines, if possible, to reduce trips to the pharmacy,” he adds. To help them, MakatiMed now has MedExpress Delivery Service so those with comorbidities and their caregivers can avoid long lines and reduce possible exposure to COVID-19 without having to worry about their medications.

Finally, Dr. Rosas also encourages people with comorbidities to get vaccinated as early as possible. The Department of Health (DOH) has already given people with chronic respiratory disease, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, malignancy, diabetes mellitus, obesity, asthma, and chronic kidney disease early access to the vaccine, explaining that they are the ones who are likely to have severe symptoms or even die if they get infected by COVID-19.

“Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 can give you another layer of protection against the disease. But we are still in the middle of the pandemic. You should remain vigilant. You should do your best to take care of yourself and remain healthy,” the doctor says. “Keep safe at home and following health protocols like wearing a mask and practicing social distancing can help prevent COVID-19. Consult with your doctor whenever needed. Delaying so would only do more harm than good.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.8888 8999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph.

family is the most important in my life. We need to stay healthy and active not only physically but mentally and emotionally as well,” the actress carried on.

Santé International, on the other hand, is equally thrilled to have Dimples on board as the brand promotes the healing power of nature this 2022.

“We know that Dimples Romana is the perfect artist to represent Santé Barley Max because her values and personality align well with the brand,” said CEO Joey Marcelo.

“Looking at her, you know that she is someone who lives to serve. She’s also very nurturing not only to her family but also to her colleagues, friends, and followers. We also see her as a catalyst who could influence people to change for the better; and people admire her because of her genuine love, care, and sincerity.”

Romana reveals that through Santé Barley Max, she has discovered the amazing health benefits that nature could do for a person’s body, soul, and mind.

“Nature has the ability to do wonders for one’s health and overall wellbeing.

So, bring more nature into your home,” shared Romana. “We can now connect to the power of nature with Santé Barley Max which we should take every day for that added protection and vitality that we need.”

Plan B promotes a safety net that keeps them from being burdened by financial concerns

President and CEO of BDO Life Renato A. Vergel De Dios

It pays to have Plan B this pandemic THE COVID-19 pandemic has radically transformed the world in the past two years.

Businesses closed down. Jobs and lives were lost. While loss of life is inevitable, there is a way to manage its impact on those who have to carry on and that’s by having a Plan B, according to Renato A. Vergel De Dios, President and CEO of BDO Life, a whollyowned subsidiary of BDO Unibank and an emerging leader in the life insurance industry.

“Everyone is so in love with a financial plan that incorporates adhering to a budget, managing our expenses, and augmenting our income sources. With the amount of savings from these measures, we can create a Plan A consisting of our emergency fund and investment program,” said De Dios.

“Plan A allows us to build wealth and achieve financial milestones, such as acquiring or upgrading the family home, and creating an educational fund for the children,” the BDO Life executive went on.

However, De Dios pointed out that to complete Plan A, people need to be strong, active, healthy, and alive long enough. But what if they get ill or pass away?

“Let’s look at it this way. The breadwinner, father, mother, or both parents, are the ‘family ATM.’ They provide financial security for their dependents. Does it then make sense to draw up a Plan B for the family ATM if it malfunctions or gets stolen? Without it, the family’s funding source and financial security will collapse.

Should every family, therefore, maintain a Plan B that springs into action when the family ATM breaks down?” De Dios added.

Among adult Filipinos, it was found that the total life insurance ownership was only at nine percent. Common reasons why people don’t buy life insurance are: they can’t afford it, they don’t see the need, they get nothing from it, and they don’t trust insurance companies.

But De Dios said that all these reasons manifest a lack of appreciation for planning and the inability of the life insurance industry to educate about the real benefits of life insurance.

“This industry has not communicated enough how a life insurance purchase is an expression of love for family and responsibility to provide for them beyond this life,” De Dios said.

To help Filipinos appreciate the value and use of life insurance, BDO Life launched a campaign about its Plan B concept. If Plan A consists of savings and investments, Plan B takes the form of life insurance which takes into effect when Plan A fails.

“Life insurance is your Plan B, the safety net that will enable your family to recover from the grief after you pass away without being burdened by immediate financial worries. It is in those crucial moments when BDO Life unleashes Plan B to help your family and keep their financial dignity intact,” Vergel De Dios said.

BDO Life has slowly but surely advanced its standing in the industry. Through Q3 2021, it joined the Top 5 companies in terms of new sales measured in Annual Premium Equivalents (APE), posting a 61 percent yearon-year hike during the period versus the industry’s 16 percent growth.