Manila Standard - 2022 March 24 - Thursday

twitter.com/ MlaStandard

facebook.com/ ManilaStandardPH

S

manilastandard.net

Missed your copy of Manila Standard? Call or text our Circulation Hotline at 0917-8848655 or email: circulation@manilastandard.net

100,000 TRAPPED AMONG RUINS IN MARIUPOL ‘HELLSCAPE’

COMELEC: OVP, DWSD, LGUS EXEMPTED FROM ELECTION BAN

WORLD / B2

VOL. XXXVI • NO. 39 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

NEWS / A4

Rody sets 10-pt. recovery plan Agenda aims to speed up, sustain PH revival efforts from COVID

By Vito Barcelo and Willie Casas

P500 ’ayuda’ for poor only for 3 months, not one year

P

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has adopted a 10-point policy agenda aimed at speeding up and sustaining the country’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 10-point agenda is detailed in Executive Order No. 166, which was released to the public on Wednesday.

It calls for the country to: Strengthen health care capacity; Accelerate and expand the vaccination program; Further reopen the economy and expand public transport capacity; Resume face-toface learning; Reduce restrictions on domestic travel and standardize local government unit (LGU) requirements; Relax requirements for international travel; Accelerate digital transformation through legislative measures; Provide for enhanced and flexible emergency measures through legislation; Shift the focus of decision-making and government reporting to more useful and empowering metrics, and Prepare in the medium term for pandemic resilience.

All government departments, bureaus, offices, agencies, and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations and state universities and colleges, are mandated to ensure that all related policies, measures, and programs are aligned with the adopted policy agenda.

All government departments and offices must also formulate and propose legislation to ensure the implementation of “enhanced and flexible” emergency measures during pandemics.

By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Maricel V. Cruz THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Wednesday said the government can only afford to provide poor households with a P500 monthly subsidy for three months at most to help them cope with the impact of rising fuel prices.

In an online briefing Wednesday, DBM officer-in-charge Tina Rose Marie Canda said the government’s revenue collection has been limited— and what has been collected has already been allocated.

She said the P500 assistance would go to 13 million beneficiaries, which would come up to P6.5 billion.

INCLUSIVE VAX PROGRAM. Alberto Contreras, the head of the Muntinlupa Down Syndrome Association, embraces his 17-year-old son Michael Angelo who received his first COVID-19 jab during the Birthright Educators Foundation Inc.'s inoculation drive for children with disabilities in Muntinlupa City. Pilar Fernandez

Canda said this was a large amount for an unprogrammed expense and that the government could give no more even if it wanted to.

President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday ordered that the monthly financial assistance to poor beneficiaries be increased from P200 to P500 after successive hikes in the pump prices of petroleum products and other basic commodities.

“It will be an uphill battle for the next administration if we increase it to P500. But let the next president handle that, never mind where he has to steal the money if necessary. But let us give this P500 now, and I hope this would go a long way really to help,” Duterte said.

Next page

‘SAKAY NA.’President Rodrigo Duterte joins Japanese Ambassador Koshikawa Kazuhiko, Transportation Sec. Arthur Tugade and Sen. Bong Go at the completion ceremony for the Japan-funded MRT-3 rehabilitation project. The rehabilitation increased the operating speed from the previous 25kph to 60kph that is expected to benefit around 500,000 passengers daily. Duterte said for one month, from March 28 to April 30, commuters can enjoy free MRT-3 rides in a bid to encourage public transportation use amid spiraling oil prices. Manny Palmero

Next page

1. Strengthen health care capacity; 2. Accelerate and expand the vaccination program; 3. Further reopen the economy and expand public transport capacity; 4. Resume face-to-face learning; 5. Reduce restrictions on domestic travel and standardize local government unit (LGU) requirements; 6. Relax requirements for international travel; 7. Accelerate digital transformation through legislative measures; 8. Provide for enhanced and flexible emergency measures through legislation;

Govt expands free rides to carousel buses The government wants to implement the expanded “Libreng Sakay” (Free Ride) program by next month, even as it will resume free rides on the EDSA carousel bus line in Metro Manila next week, the

9. Shift the focus of decision-making and government reporting to more useful and empowering metrics, and 10. Prepare in the medium term for pandemic resilience

Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said Wednesday.

At the “Laging Handa” press briefing, LTFRB Executive Director Maria Kristina Cassion said they are just waiting for the actual

downloading of funds allocated for the third tranche of the Service Contracting Program (SCP) to start the expanded free-ride rollout.

Around 44 million passengers benefitted from the servicing program, Cassion added. Next page

PAGASA redefines super typhoons, Comelec eyes to settle PDP-Laban row within March retires names of 3 deadly storms THE government's weather bureau PAGASA revised Wednesday its definition of a "super typhoon" and its system for alerting the public on the wind strength of tropical cyclones.

PAGASA or the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration also decommissioned the names of three destructive storms in 2021: Jolina,

Maring, and Odette.

From 2025, they will be replaced with the names Jacinto, Mirasol, and Opong, respectively.

A super typhoon packs maximum sustained winds of at least 185 kilometers per hour, based on PAGASA’s revised definition.

Previously, PAGASA defined a super typhoon as a tropical cyclone with more Next page

DICT: No security risk in full foreign capital in telcos, still subject to checks THE government does not see any national security threat arising from the passage of the law granting 100 percent foreign ownership of public services such as telecommunications, despite them being reclassified.

With the recently signed Republic Act 11659 amending the decades-old Public Service Act, foreign investments in mass media are also expected to come in,

economic managers and a senator running for President expressed Wednesday.

Acting Secretary Emmanuel "Manny" Caintic of the Department of Information and Communications Technology said local telecom firms are still subject to existing laws and will undergo cybersecurity checks through DICT’s Cybersecurity Bureau and third-party audits.

Next page

COMMISSION on Elections (Comelec) Chairperson Saidamen Pangarungan has called for a speedy resolution to the case involving which faction of the ruling party PDP-Laban must be recognized.

Comelec Commissioner George Garcia said in a television interview Wednesday Pangarungan had instructed whoever was assigned to write the

resolution or judgment to expedite resolution of the case.

Garcia hoped the issue would be resolved within the month.

The ruling party is divided into the Cusi faction headed by Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi and outgoing President Rodrigo Duterte which has endorsed, through a resolution, the tandem of

former Senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Mayor Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio, and the Pimentel faction headed by Senator Aquilino Pimentel III and presidential candidate Senator Manny Pacquiao – with both vying for Comelec recognition.

Pimentel slammed the Cusi group's endorsement of Marcos Jr., saying that Next page

RECOGNITION. SM Supermalls was given Special Awards of Recognition for its national vaccination program contribution. As advocates for #SafeMalling, SM Supermalls was also awarded a certificate of recognition for their steadfastness in carrying the DTI Safety Seal in all 76 of their malls.

Organized by the DILG, the event entitled 'Recognition of the Best Performing Local Government Units: Safety Seal Certification Program, VaxCertPH Program, and National Vaccination Day' was held at the SM Mall of Asia. (From left): Interior Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya, Trade Undersecretary Ireneo Vizmonte, National Task Force Against COVID-19 Deputy Chief Implementer Secretary Vivencio Dizon, DOCT Secretary Emmanuel Caintic, DILG Secretary Eduardo Año, and SM Supermalls President Steven Tan.

A2

News

THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Compromise deal sought for BPOs Salceda, chairman of the House committee on ways and means, said he will ask the Fiscal Incentives Review Board and the BPO companies to reach an agreement.

“I think the compromise is, okay, onsite work is back, but arrangements can be made for those who went home to the

provinces, are immuno-compromised, or have special conditions that prevent them from working on-site. The Work From Home setup has made the BPO sector more inclusive, especially for parents with young children and those who care for loved ones at home,” Salceda said.

“So, I want unified guidelines from

the FIRB, the Department of Labor and Employment, and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority about what arrangements can be made,” Salceda added.

Salceda also wants to know how large of a “tax leak” the FIRB is worried about.

“I just want to know the costs and benefits of the policy they’re insisting on. I mean, NEDA on the one hand is proposing a four-day work week. I think we can experiment with that here. Four days onsite, and one day home for most BPO workers,” Salceda added.

He stressed “some BPO firms may be saving a lot of money from not having to rent spaces or pay utilities. And that could be skewing the cost-benefit analysis for tax incentives, meaning we are getting less economic activities for the same tax perks.”

Previous government guidelines during

Rody...

gross domestic product by as much as -9.6 percent in 2020," the EO reads.

The Philippines on Tuesday recorded 290 new COVID-19 cases, the lowest recorded daily tally this year.

This brings the nationwide total cases to 3,674,983.

According to the Department of Health (DOH) website, the new infections brought the country's active case count to 44,764. This was the lowest number of active cases since Jan. 5.

Among the top regions with cases in the recent two weeks were the National Capital Region (NCR) with 1,948, followed by Region 4-A with 899 and Region 6 with 671.

The number of recoveries rose to 3,571,938, while the country’s death toll climbed to 58,281.

Based on the latest data, at least 24.64 percent of the intensive care unit (ICU) beds for COVID-19 patients nationwide are in use.

At least 22.04 percent of isolation beds in the country were utilized, while 13.66 percent of ward beds nationwide were in use.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said a positivity rate of 2.7 percent was recorded this week. This is

better than the 5 percent threshold set by the World Health Organization Also on Wednesday, Vergeire said there has been no uptick in COVID-19 cases despite the start of the campaign period for the May elections.

She expressed concern, however, that campaign rallies and gatherings might cause the transmission of the virus and become superspreader events.

Vergeire reminded the public to observe minimum health protocols and get vaccinated to prevent spread of the viral disease.

Also on Wednesday, the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases approved the acceptance and recognition of the national COVID-19 vaccination certificates of Bulgaria, Iran and Panama, for purposes of arrival quarantine protocols, as well as for interzonal and intrazonal movement.

This is in addition to other countries whose proof of vaccination the IATF has already approved for recognition in the Philippines, and without prejudice to such other proofs of vaccination approved by the IATF for all inbound travelers.

The IATF directed the Bureau

of Quarantine, the Department of Transportation – One-Stop-Shop and the Bureau of Immigration to recognize only the proof of vaccination approved by the IATF. So far, the country is recognizing the vaccination certificates as sufficient proof of vaccination of 72 countries, territories or jurisdictions: Albania; Argentina; Armenia; Australia; Austria; Azerbaijan; Bahrain; Belgium; Brazil; British Virgin Islands; Brunei Darussalam; Bulgaria; Cambodia; Canada; Chile; Colombia; Croatia; Cyprus; Czech Republic; Denmark; Ecuador; Egypt; Estonia; France; Georgia; Germany; Greece; Hong Kong; India; Indonesia; Iran; Iraq; Ireland; Israel; Italy; Japan; Kazakhstan;Kuwait; Macau; Malaysia; Maldives; Malta; Monaco; Myanmar; New Zealand; Nepal; Oman; Palau; Panama; Papua New Guinea; Peru; Portugal; Qatar; Romania; Samoa; Singapore; Slovenia; South Korea; Spain; Sri Lanka; Switzerland; Syria; Thailand; The Netherlands; TimorLeste; Tunisia; Turkey; United Arab Emirates; United Kingdom; United States of America; Uruguay and Vietnam.

The Philippines reopened its doors to fully vaccinated foreign tourists from non-visa countries on Feb. 10, 2022.

definition of the terms public services and public utilities in the existing law.”

These will “open up public services to 100-percent foreign ownership, and retain public utilities as majority Filipinoowned, subject to the 60-40 ownership rule” in the Constitution, he added.

Dominguez called on “experienced and strategic investors in the United States to bring their capital into our country, especially in the fields of telecommunications; media; and private transportation vehicles.”

At present, foreigners are barred from investing in or funding mass media in the Philippines.

“Since telco is a relatively high capital investment industry, we need good foreign direct investments for it so we could improve our services through better internet and establishment of more fiberoptic cables and towers to improve the signal of our mobile services,” Caintic said.

Several foreign companies have already shown interest in owning 100 percent of telcos in the Philippines, as the country has good market and mobile penetration but still has some 25 million households with no internet connection, he added.

With better internet connection, employees could now opt to continue working from home and students from all parts of the country can have access to the same educational materials, the DICT chief said.

Asked how the department could ensure the safety and security of the Filipinos with this new law, Caintic said he sees the passing of the SIM Card Registration bill as among the solutions.

“One of the things we are rushing before the end of President Duterte's term is the SIM Registration Bill. Just like about 150 other countries that have the same bill, we can reduce these hacking and phishing by properly and safely registering SIM cards so that we can know and determine immediately who are the people or groups who commit criminal activities,” he added.

In February, Congress ratified the bicameral conference committee report on the measure requiring the registration of mobile phone subscriber identity module cards or SIMs. The measure mandates all public telecommunications entities (PTEs) to require the registration of SIM cards as a prerequisite to their sale and activation.

It also provides that all social media networks should require the real name and phone number of users upon the creation of their accounts.

Govt...

Commuters welcomed the announcement of the free rides on the EDSA carousel bus, saying it would be a big help for them, especially those earning the minimum wage.

In the same Laging Handa briefing, Tamayo said the P6,500 fuelassistance was distributed through cash cards provided by the Landbank of the Philippines (LBP).

“LBP continues its printing of cash cards to be distributed later to additional beneficiaries this year,” Tamayo said.

Among these additional beneficiaries are drivers and operators of a transport network vehicle service (TNVS) vehicle, UV Express, and tricycles.

The LTFRB will begin the distribution of cash cards to drivers and operators of TNVS and UV Express units beginning next week, Tamayo said.

For tricycle drivers and operators, she said the LTFRB would coordinate with the Department of the Interior and Local Government, as tricycles are under the mandate of local government units (LGU).

“Our talks with the DILG continue, so we can compile a list of beneficiaries among tricycle drivers,” Tamayo said.

The latest fuel subsidy of the government began distribution on March 15 through existing LBP cash cards issued through previous subsidy programs by the government.

BHW Party-list Representative Angelica Natasha Co said offering free rides is a targeted measure to cushion the impact of high fuel prices, as it will immediately benefit workers who commute by rail, including the health care front-liners and hospital workers.

"I reiterate my suggestion that the LRTA and PNR give their passengers free rides even if only for a limited period," Co said in a statement.

She expressed gratitude to Duterte and Department of Transportation Secretary Art Tugade for the monthlong MRT-3 free rides.

Tugade noted that train passengers can ride the MRT-3 free of charge in all its stations during the said dates.

He also stressed that this will greatly help ease the financial burden of the riding public, especially amid the inflation, rising fuel prices, and with many Filipino workers now returning to on-site work.

Co said these measures would convince motorists to keep their cars at home for some days so they could save on fuel, thus resulting in less traffic congestion.

By Maricel V. Cruz and Othel V. Campos

T

HE government and business process outsourcing (BPO) companies should come to an “acceptable compromise” over the state’s decision that they end work-from-home (WFH) arrangements for their employees

by April 1 or lose their tax incentives, Albay Rep Joey Sarte Salceda said Wednesday.

From A1

EO 166 also orders the shift to “more useful and empowering metrics,” taking into consideration the total severe or critical cases, case fatality ratio, and total vaccinations to avoid unnecessary changes in alert levels and encourage more people to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

The national government is also directed to prepare medium-term solutions to ensure the country’s resilience against future pandemics.

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) will monitor the compliance of concerned agencies and periodically report to the President.

Citing data from NEDA, the EO states that at the height of the pandemic in 2020, 10.1 percent of businesses temporarily closed while 0.4 percent permanently ceased operations, causing unemployment to swell to around 8.7 million.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has impeded the country's three decades of uninterrupted growth, contracting its

DICT:...

From A1

“We don't see any problem because they will still be under the existing laws. We will make sure that there are regular cyber security checks and that they still follow the guidelines for telco companies,” he said in a Super Radyo dzBB interview.

“It also doesn’t mean that they would no longer follow our rules and regulations despite them having 100% ownership,” Caintic added.

Telecommunications and other public services such as railways, airlines, mass media and logistical facilities were previously classified as public utilities.

Under the 1987 Constitution, foreigners may only own up to 40% of public utilities.

Meanwhile, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez said the amendments pushed by the economic team in the antiquated public service, foreign investments, and retail trade laws were “forward-looking measures [that] widen the horizon for investments” in the Philippines.

“They create numerous opportunities for synergy between local and international firms. There is now enough space for international firms to form joint ventures with Filipino companies, especially those at the cutting edge of information technologies,” said Dominguez, the country’s chief economic manager.

Senator Panfilo Lacson, who is running to succeed President Rodrigo Duterte in the May 9 elections, told a television program that passing the amendments to the Public Service Act opened up more sectors of the economy to foreign investment, and set threshold amounts for non-Filipinos to infuse capital into local businesses.

Lacson stressed in the “Kandidatalks” program hosted by Go Negosyo on TV5 that micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) remained largely Filipinoowned, but noted the government could do a better job enticing investors to come to the Philippines.

“The only restrictions are on the public utilities bordering on national security, of course. But we actually opened airports, railways, telecom, the media even, so it’s good because… the world is getting smaller and smaller. We cannot compete if we don’t open up,” the Partido Reporma standard-bearer said.

On Congress’ amendment to the Commonwealth-era Public Service Act, Dominguez said it “provided a clearer

PAGASA introduced this category in 2015 to better reflect the potential From A1 dangers of super typhoons like Yolanda, the strongest storm to ever hit land, than 220 kph maximum sustained winds. which left more than 7,360 people dead The new definition is similar to the or missing across central Philippines in USA Joint Typhoon Warning Center's 2013.

The state weather bureau also amended super typhoon classification, when its tropical cyclone wind signals, which converted to 10-minute averaging.

PAGASA...

From A1

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) earlier said it released P7 billion to the Department of Transportation (DoTr) for the program’s implementation, and for the latter to include other public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators, including jeepneys and UV Express units.

“We are hoping that our SCP, where the ‘Free Ride’ program is enclosed, will start as soon as possible,” Cassion said.

Meanwhile, a party-list lawmaker on Wednesday urged the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) and the Philippine National Railways (PNR) to also offer free rail rides to reduce transportation costs for commuters amid the high oil prices.

This was after President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Tuesday announced the Metro Rail Transit 3 (MRT-3) will offer free rides from March 28 to April 30, following the successful completion of the rail system's massive and comprehensive rehabilitation works.

Also, around 115,000 drivers of public utility vehicles (PUV) have received their one-time P6,500 fuel subsidy from the government, Zona Russet Tamayo, regional director of the LTFRB-National Capital Region, said Wednesday.

“We’re just waiting for the downloading of the budget of the LTFRB and hopefully, at the soonest possible time in April we can start the SCP for this year,” Cassion added.

Under the SCP, operators and drivers who participate in the government’s free ridership program will receive a one-time payout of P4,000, and weekly payments based on kilometers traveled per week with or without passengers.

PUV operators will be contracted via an agreement based on a plan prepared by the LTFRB, as Cassion said the DoTr is expecting more drivers and operators to participate in the scheme this year after its successful turnouts in 2020 and 2021.

She also assured partners of adjusted payment rates in view of the rising fuel prices in the country.

“Because the operators have seen the positive implications of the program, we are expecting that more partners will join this year. If more drivers and operators participate, more passengers will benefit,” she said.

the COVID-19 pandemic allowed BPOs to avail of tax perks even with 90 percent of their workforce working from home.

“I get where Secretary Dominguez is coming from. But the principle of CREATE is to encourage exports regardless of where they locate, so that has to be weighed also,” Salceda said.

Salceda also emphasized “the DOLE has also been clear that those who cannot work onsite but can still deliver their output cannot be fired for that reason. So, in consequence, BPOs can make internal arrangements,” Salceda said.

The House tax chair plans to convene the FIRB, PEZA, DOLE, and BPO firms “this month to get people together and come up with a mutually acceptable compromise.” (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Severe Tropical Storm now correspond to the following 89-117 kph maximum sustained winds categories.

Highest wind signal: 3 Tropical Depression Typhoon Less than 62 kilometers per hour 118-184 kph maximum sustained maximum sustained winds Highest wind winds Highest wind signal: 4 signal: 1 Super Typhoon Tropical Storm 185 kph or higher maximum sustained 62-88 kph maximum sustained winds winds Highest wind signal: 5 Highest wind signal: 2

Three cops under restrictive custody for e-sabong mess

By Rey E. Requejo THREE police officers implicated in the purported disappearance of an e-sabong (online cockfighting) "master agent" in San Pablo City, Laguna have been placed under restrictive custody, the Philippine National Police said Wednesday.

In a radio interview, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said these cops were now under restrictive custody at the headquarters of the Police Regional Office (PRO)-4A (Calabarzon) and are set to face charges in the coming days.

“So far, the three mentioned during the Senate hearing plus the previous statements we obtained prior to this Senate hearing, we are investigating other angles. They now have a positive identification based on the missing master agent. The other policemen we are investigating are included if we are to ask our investigators because we are still waiting for some reports to confirm their participation,” Fajardo said.

Fajardo added the police provincial director of Laguna, Col. Rogart Campo, had been relieved after he allegedly received P1 million from businessman Atong Ang as revealed during a Senate hearing.

Ang accused Campo of taking part in the supposed conspiracy against him by other e-sabong stakeholders.

At least two police officers, Pat. Roy Navarete and Staff Sgt. Daryl Paghangaan, were identified by some relatives of the e-sabong "master agent" Ricardo Lasco as among those who abducted him in August last year. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Comelec...

From A1

it proved that they were "total strangers" to the party, which was founded in 1982 to resist the strongman rule of Ferdinand Marcos Sr., Bongbong's father.

In September 2021, the Cusi faction filed a petition before the poll body to declare Pacquiao and Pimentel as illegal representatives of the party.

Pimentel urged the Comelec to dismiss the petition filed by the Cusi faction, which he called “usurpers."

According to Garcia, “The resolution of this controversy is so important because there are other certain implications or collaterals that will be resolved because of the resolution of this controversy.”

Garcia, a former election lawyer whose previous clients included Marcos Jr. and another presidential candidate, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, also asked political parties to ensure that there were no "loopholes" in their constitution and by-laws before they file their petition for accreditation before the Comelec.

P500...

From A1

Under the original plan proposed by the Department of Finance, the monthly P200 subsidy would last until the end of the year, with a total budget of P33 billion.

Prices of petroleum products have been on an increase in 11 of the last 12 weeks, aggravated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Senator Grace Poe, who had described the P200 monthly subsidy as “a pittance,” said the government must not scrimp on aid to the poor.

Presidential candidate Senator Manny Pacquiao said the cash subsidy would not come close to its objective of easing the economic difficulties faced by the poor.

Pacquiao has maintained that the government should instead give a sack of rice to poor beneficiaries instead of a cash amount that is not enough.

Senator Francis Pangilinan said the government has been earning billions from fuel taxes, but has been miserly in its help to the poor.

Senator Christopher Go, the President’s close aide, said the increase from P200 to P500 a month showed the President’s concern for the poor, even though his term ends in June.

In the House, Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda said the monthly subsidies will be an immediate relief for struggling Filipino households.

"We recommended this in November 2021 in a committee hearing attended by the economic agencies, and reiterated the same during the first hearing of the Ad Hoc Committee on the Fuel Price Crisis, which I co-chair. We welcome the announcement that it will be done and that it can be funded," said Salceda, chairman of the House committee on ways and means.

Salceda said the funding source will probably be some mix of existing budgetary items and augmentation of existing items funded by dividend remittances and other non-tax sources.

In any case, there are sources that can be tapped.

News

THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

DFA Parañaque office suspends walk-in applications for apostille O

By Rey E. Requejo

VERSEAS job applicants on Wednesday surged into the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) office in Paranaque City, prompting the agency to temporarily stop services for walk-in applicants as it found the volume more than they could handle.

In an advisory, the DFA said the apos- the office could handle in one day. tille services were suspended as the apThe department added that walk-in plications surpassed the maximum level services for apostille applicants will

resume today.

Long lines of overseas job applicants reportedly formed outside the DFA Office of Consular Affairs at the Aseana Business Park as early as Tuesday night to have their documents processed.

But the DFA reminded the applicants that there was no need for them to queue up late into the night.

“We admit applicants and provide them numbers starting at 7 a.m. There is no need to line up at the DFA-Aseana late at night,” the DFA said.

MORE than eight million Filipinos are now holders of the Philippine Identification cards, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).announced on Wednesday.

In a statement, PSA Assistant Secretary Rosalinda Bautista said a total of 8,176,454 cards have been sent out across the country to individuals who had registered for the PhilSys program.

Bautista said the delivery covered 24.2 percent of this year’s 33.8- million target.

“We, at PSA, together with the Philippine Postal Corporation and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), are doing our best to accommodate millions of Filipinos who have successfully registered for PhilSys Step 1 and Step 2,” Bautista said.

The agency reminded registrants who have received their PhilIDs and the accompanying letter containing their PhilSys Number (PSN) to refrain from posting the documents on social media to protect their personal information.

Meanwhile, those still waiting for their cards were encouraged to keep their transaction slip which, along with a valid ID, has to be presented to the Philippine Postal Corporation personnel delivering their PhilID card and PSN letter.

Moreover, the PSA is set to launch a mobile version of the PhilID as a digital alternative to the physical PhilID card to maximize the use of the PhilSys in online transactions. Willie Casas

OFW WOES. Overseas job hunters form long lines for consular services outside the Department of Foreign Affairs office in Parañaque City on Tuesday evening. The volume of applicants surpassed the daily quota set by the DFA, prompting the agency to tentatively halt its operatios on Wednesday. Norman Cruz

Malacañang official faces graft case for maligning, red-tagging Robredo SUPPORTERS of Vice President and presidential aspirant Leni Robredo have filed graft and administrative complaints against a ranking Malacañang official for alleged red-tagging and maligning her character.

Cited in the charges was Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) and spokesperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ElCAC).

The complaints were filed at the Office of the Ombudsman with a request to place the respondent under preventive suspension.

The complainants consisted of human rights activists, teachers, youth leaders, and concerned citizens represented by lawyers Antonio La Viña

and Rico Domingo .

Kabataan party-list Rep. Raymond Palatino accused Badoy of violating Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, and RA 6713, also called the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards of Public Officials and Employees.

“By utilizing the infrastructure of state media for purposes of influencing the minds of voters vis-a-vis the May 9, 2022 elections, Undersecretary Badoy has besmirched the reputation of her fellow public servant in the process,” the complaint stated.

“We are collectively shocked at such behavior, which we believe is unbecoming of Undersecretary Badoy’s office... we believe that she should be disciplined for such breach of the public’s trust,” it added. Rio N. Araja

Villar bags DENR award for environmental advocacies SEN. Cynthia Villar was conferred on Wednesday a government award for her environmental advocacies including solid waste management, sustainable tourism, and community development.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-National Capital Region (DENRNCR) handed the award to the senator in rites held at the Radisson North EDSA in Quezon City in line with the aency’s Gawad Taga-Ilog 2,0. Search for the Most Improved Estero in Metro Manila, highlighting observance of the World Water Day. In her acceptance speech, Villar noted that as an

individual, a legislator and a public servant, these have always been her priorities and advocacies.

The senator has been at the forefront of maintaining a healthy enviroment, especially now that the world faces a global health crisis.

She has likewise been making strides for the realization of water sustainability. Villar, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, recalled that “four years ago on this day in 2018, together with the Manila Bay Site Coordinating Management Office and all other organizations, the DENR-NCR also awarded

me as “Kampeon ng Katubigan” for my efforts in leading the protection of bodies of water such as the Las Piñas Zapote River and the Las Piñas Parañaque Wetland Park.”

“Eleven years ago, in 2011, I also received an award for the river rehabilitation program. I started in my home city- the Sagip Ilog program.

It bested other initiatives from 38 other countries and won the United Nations Water for Life Best Water Management Practices during World Water Day celebration in Zaragosa, Spain,” also said Villar. Macon Ramos-Araneta

THE Supreme Court has exonerated a former mayor Cabuyao City mayor convicted by the Sandiganbayan of graft in 2019 for being a director of a private development bank while he was the city’s chief executive.

In a resolution, the SC acquitted Isidro Lebrilla Hemedes Jr. who served as Cabuyao City in Laguna from 2007 to 2016.

Record showed that Hemedes was charged with violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. The law prohibits a public official from being “a director or indirectly having financing or pecuniary interest in any business, contract or transaction in connection with which he intervenes or takes part in his official capacity, or in which he is prohibited by the Constitution or by any law from having any interest.”

A complaint filed by a certain Feliciano Lavina cited that Presidential Decree No. 119, the Private Development Banks Act, and the General Banking Law of 2000 prohibit appointive or elective officials from being an officer of any private bank, either in full or part-time capacity.

The complainant also invoked the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees which bans public officials from engaging in private practice of their profession unless authorized by law.

In his defense, Hemedes argued that his being a member of the board of directors of the Luzon Development Bank (LDB) did not cause prejudice to public service or to Cabuyao City. He said he worked full-time as the city’s chief executive.

In convicting Hemedes, who was sentenced to a prison term of six years and one month to eight years with perpetual disqualification to hold public office, the Sandiganbayan junked the former mayor’s defense that he did not take any active part in the management of LDB affairs as a corporate entity from 2006 to 2014, and had no direct or indirect financial or pecuniary interest in the bank.

Rey E. Requejo

IN BRIEF BI says fewer aliens reported this year MORE than 133,000 foreign nationals took part in this year’s annual report of aliens conducted last January until March 1, according to the Bureau of Immigration (BI).

BI alien registration chief Jose Carlitos Licas said this year’s figure reportees was slightly higher than the 130,148 posted last year.

The annual reporting of aliens was beingconducted during the first 60 days of every year pursuant to the provisions of the Alien Registration Act of 1950.

Foreigners who are holders of valid immigrant and non-immigrant visas issued by the BI are mandated to make the annual report.

He said the low number was expected on account of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Statistics showed that Chinese nationals, totaling 63,659, topped the list of this year’s reportees, followed by 17,728 Indians and 7,780 Americans.

Others in the top 10 list wer 6,653 Taiwanese, 4991 South Koreans, 4,464 Vietnamese, 3,725 Japanese, 2,929 Indonesians, 2,705 Britons, and 2,103 Malaysians.

“The implementation of the online appointment system allowed us to process the annual report and still ensure strict social distancing in our offices,” Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said. Vito Barcelo

Taguig top in COVID 19 vaccination—DILG THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has recognized Taguig City for having one of the highest accomplishment rates Manila among local government units in the COVID-19 vaccination program.

Standard Taguig City Health Office head Dr. Norena Osano received the TODAY award during the Safety Seal and Vaccination Certificate ceremony, held at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City on Tuesday.

DILG Secretary Eduardo Año said two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, the winning LGUs have demonstrated synergy with the government’s implementation of various programs. He added that the rest of the LGUs can learn from the winners and implore them to emulate their victory.

“The victory of today’s winners are founded on their cooperation and support to these programs which have changed the landscape of the country’s COVID-19 response. Congratulations on your success and we wish you a role model for other LGUs in the country,” Año said.

Taguig City Mayor Lino Edgardo Cayetano attributed the feat to the city’s hardworking healthcare workers. Joel E. Zurbano

Invest more for ‘social good’—SMC SAN Miguel Corp. (SMC) is calling on the business sector to invest more for the “social good.”

The call was made by SMC president and CEO Ramon S. Ang during a gathering on Wednesday by advocates and representatives of organizations for environment protection at the La Mesa Watershed in Quezon City for the blessing and inauguration of the Million Trees Foundation Inc. (MTFI) Nursery and Eco Learning Center.

Ang who was guest of honor and speaker for the event said businessmen should take the initiative to invest more on projects that will benefit more people.

“Businesses should not always be about profit,” he said as he urged the other concessionaires of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS)--Manila Water and Maynilad--to invest on the environment.

Addressing representatives from Manila Water and Maynilad, he said: “I am challenging you to tell your bosses, Enrique Razon and [Manuel V.] Pangilinan, to invest in the environment. If you can’t tell them that, I will tell them.”

MTFI Chairman Emeritus and former MWSS administrator and chairman Gen. Reynaldo V. Velasco (ret.) described RSA as a visionary and a humble person despite his prominence in the business community. His love for nature and for the environment is very evident in the environmental projects he pursues. “I still have to see a businessman who will invest on his own in clearing a very big river like Tullahan in support of the project of DENR,” Velasco said.

The Nursery and Eco Learning Center is an essential component of MFTI programs that will ensure the sustainability of the MWSS Annual Million Trees Challenge (AMTC) through the years.

The AMTC has successfully reached its target with 5.2 million

SC clears former city mayor of graft

The agency also advised applicants to consider going to other DFA offices for the processing of their documents.

The consular offices that accept walkin applicants for apostille services are: NCR West (150 applicants); NCR East (100 applicants); Pampanga (80 applicants); NCSouth (150 applicants); CO Iloilo (60 applicants); NCR Northeast (80 applicants); La Union (50 applicants); Davao (90 applicants); Cebu (100 applicants); and Cagayan de Oro (37 applicants).

PhilID cards distribution surpasses 8-m mark

A3

E R R A T U M IN THE ADVERTISEMENT OF THE COMMISSION ON ELECTIONS PUBLISHED ON MARCH 19, 2022, THE TITLE AND OTHER CONTENT OF RESOLUTION NO. 10770, SHOULD READ AS FOLLOWS: 1. Page 1 – Title RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE FILING OF ACCREDITATION FOR THE PURPOSE OF DETERMINING THE DOMINANT MAJORITY PARTY, DOMINANT MINORITY PARTY, TEN (10) MAJOR NATIONAL PARTIES AND TWO (2) MAJOR LOCAL PARTIES IN CONNECTION WITH THE MAY 9, 2022 NATIONAL AND LOCAL ELECTIONS AND SUCCEEDING NATIONAL AND LOCAL ELECTIONS 2. Page 2 – Section 2

RSA IS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT. SMC president Ramon S. Ang and former MWSS chairman Reynaldo Velasco lead the inauguration of the Million Trees Foundation Nursery and Eco Learning Center at the La Mesa Watershed in Novaliches, Quezon City. trees over five years.

These trees were planted in the seven critical watersheds notably La Mesa, Ipo, Angat, Upper Marikina, Umiray, Kaliwa, Laguna Lake and Manila Bay that affect the water supply in Metro Manila and neighboring provinces in the service area of MWSS. Planting of 10 million more trees until 2030 is in the pipeline.

Section 2. When to File. For purposes of the May 9, 2022 National and Local Elections, the petition shall be field not later that April 11, 2022. For the succeeding National and Local Elections, the petition shall be filed not later than forty-five (45) days before the scheduled election. Petitioner shall allege in its petition such facts that will entitle it to accreditation.

3. Page 3 - last paragraph of Section 4 The petitioner shall include in its petition, pertinent data and statistics to support its arguments in accordance with the above critera, as well as the submission of the latest Sworn Information Update Statement (SIUS) duly filed before the Commission.

News

IN BRIEF Sara: Bongbong is my only choice for president

LAKAS CMD vice presidential candidate Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte on Wednesday again insisted Partido Federal ng Pilipinas standard-bearer Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is her only choice for president despite several supporters linking her to other presidential candidates.

In a short video statement released this afternoon, Duterte re-affirmed her decision to support running-mate Marcos buoyed by the commitment partaken by her parties LakasCMD and Hugpong ng Pagbabago.

“I intend to honor the commitment of my parties — the Lakas-CMD and Hugpong ng Pagbabago -- that is to support Apo Bongbong Marcos as president,” Duterte said.

Duterte recalled that the formulation of UniTeam was a product of their shared vision for all Filipinos — which will start by forging unity to strengthen our country, and move every Filipino’s dream forward.

“When we agreed to form the UniTeam of Bongbong Marcos and SaraDuterte, we both agreed to run together with the singular purpose of improving the lives of the Filipinos and making the Philippines a stronger country,” Duterte said.

Duterte is a constant frontrunner in the vice presidential surveys conducted by various polling bodies. But as she continuously leads preference polls, her supporters have also been forging tandems associating her with other presidential hopefuls.

Overwhelmed by the massive support she is receiving, the mayor thanked her supporters for showing their “confidence to as a leader.” Maricel V. Cruz

A4

THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

Binay backs move to bring vax drive to provinces

UNITED Nationalist Alliance (UNA) party senatorial candidate Jejomar Binay on Wednesday expressed his support to government’s effort to bring the COVID-19 vaccination drive to provinces with a considerable number of unprotected residents.

The former vice president said if the government achieves its vaccination target, the pace of economic recovery would increase.

While government would still need to provide aid to sectors and small Filipino entrepreneurs, Binay said the public should do its part by having themselves vaccinated and observing health protocols.

“We need to work together to hasten our recovery from the pandemic. On the part of government, it should continue to provide assistance to sectors who are still struggling from the economic impact of the pandemic,” he said.

Health officials had said they will now shift government’s vaccination efforts to small localities outside Metro Manila.

Some 65 million individuals have been fully immunized against COVID-19 as of March 15, they said. This is five million short of government’s target of 70 million. Joel E. Zurbano

SARA FACES SUPPORTERS. Lakas-CMD vice presidential candidate and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte delivers her message to thousands of supporters during a UniTeam grand campaign rally at the Quezon Convention Center in Lucena City. Ver Noveno

Comelec says OVP can continue projects during election period T

By Vito Barcelo

HE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has granted the request for exemption of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’ (DSWD), local government units (LGUs), and the Office of the Vice President (OVP) from implementing projects during the election period.

“The Petition for Exception of DSWD during the 45 days period of campaign was likewise approved/granted by the En Banc,” Comelec Commissioner George Garcia said.

“We denied/ granted fully and/ or partially certain petitions of other agencies and LGUs (local government

Robredo focuses on farmers’ plight in visit to Nueva Ecija PRESIDENTIAL candidate Vice President Leni Robredo said farmers endure the most sacrifices and are often on the receiving end of empty promises during elections, in her campaign rally in San Jose, Nueva Ecija on Tuesday.

“Dito sa Nueva Ecija, napakaraming mga magsasaka. At ‘yung mga magsasaka grabe ‘yung sakripisyo na tinitiis ngayon. At lahat kaming kandidato, ang sasabihin namin dahil kampanya, aasikasuhin namin ‘yung mga magsasaka. Papahalagahan namin ‘yung mga magsasaka. Pero dapat hindi lang tayo basta-basta naniniwala (There are a lot of farmers in Nueva Ecija and they sacrifice a lot. Politicians often make promises in their campaign,” she said.

“Ako po mahabang panahon hindi pa po ako politiko, abogado ako para sa mga magsasaka. Abogado tayo para sa mga mangingisda. Halos buong buhay natin, ginugol natin sa mga communities at alam niyo ‘yan dahil kapag tinignan niyo po ‘yung aming mga record, kumpleto kami ng resibo (I am not a politician. I am a lawyer for farmers and for fisherfolks. I’ve spent almost all my life helping communities. You can see these in our track record,” Robredo said.

As Vice President, Robredo’s Angat Buhay Program also helped various farming communities all over the country, including Nueva Ecija’s Palay and Kalamansi Farmers Agriculture Cooperative in Cabanatuan.

At the Anehan People’s Rally in Cabanatuan, 50,000 Novo Ecijanos lit up the Old Provincial Capitol Oval for Robredo.

In her speech, Robredo said she did not expect a huge turnout for the event.

Robredo said she had apprehensions regarding the Nueva Ecija event. She also said she wanted to hold a sortie on a smaller venue, at first. But the huge turnout really surprised her, Robredo said.

units) nationwide,” he added.

He likewise said the en banc has granted the petitions of the OVP to continue its projects and programs throughout the campaign period.

Projects of the OVP that had been halted included the free mobile antigen testing service Swab Cab,

the free teleconsultation service Bayanihan E-Konsulta, and drivethrough vaccination drive Vaccine Express.

The OVP’s COVID-19 initiatives were suspended last month as the campaign period for the May 9 candidates running for national positions officially began on February 8.

Vice President Leno Robredo is running for president.

The Omnibus Election Code generally prohibits the use of government offices’ budgets to boost the campaign of candidates.

Robredo lauded the decision of the Comelec over the resumption of her COVID-19 response initiatives amid presidential bid.

“We thank the Comelec en banc for

their action on the Oftice of the Vice President’s request. This will ensure that Angat Buhay projects which have helped hundreds of thousands of Filipinos in the past six years can continue to bring hope to communities all over the Philippines,” spokesperson Barry Gutierrez said.

The Comelec said Angat Buhay programs would be exempted from the public works and fund disbursements ban during the campaign period. Robredo previously requested Comelec for an exemption of her Bayanihan EKonsulta, Swab Cab and Vaccine Express.

She vowed to change the logos, colors and the designs of her programs to avoid association to her election campaign. With Rio N. Araja

Moreno shrugs off PDP-Laban support of Marcos Jr.

By Rey E. Requejo AKSYON Demokratiko standard-bearer Isko Moreno Domagoso on Wednesday said he remains unperturbed by the decision of the ruling party Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan to endorse the candidacy of his rival presidential frontrunner Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos jr.

“I am not threatened,” Moreno said, in an interview at the sidelines of the turnover ceremony of the newly-renovated University of Manila. Annex Building.

Moreno admitted though that the move may have likely made his campaign more difficult, he pointed out that he is no stranger to adversities, his life

being full of them – from being a scavenger, a pedicab driver, a “mere” high school graduate Manila city councilor, vice mayor and mayor before the start of the pandemic.

“Just to be fair to you, of course, my fight will be even harder. Because pedigrees, and even supported with pedigrees again, are very large political groups. Of course, I have to be honest with the people, that if they join me, they will join the hard fight, not the easy fight,” Moreno said.

The 47-year-old city mayor on Wednesday led the ceremonial turnover of the UDM’s Henry Sy Sr. Campus CMIT Bldg. located at Carlos Palanca corner Helios Streets in Sta. Cruz,

Manila.

“My fight was harder. But just the same, remember, all the books of my life, my fight is hard. By the mercy of God and thank God, I overcame everything, I succeeded. I think that with God’s help and yours, I can overcome this challenge in life. That’s why I always tell people, let’s not give up,” Moreno said.

Moreno said the new challenges brought by the recent development only motivates him to reach out directly to the people, to reach as many Filipinos as he can in as many places possible till May in order to get the most important endorsement of all – the votes of ordinary Filipinos.

Gov. Suarez says BBM will win by 400k in Quezon

By Maricel V. Cruz A MARGIN of victory of around 400,000 votes is in the offing for the UniTeam tandem of former senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his running mate Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte in the Quezon province this May. Quezon Gov. Danilo Suarez made the assessment after he witnessed the UniTeam mini-rally attended by at least 12,000.people inside and outside the Tiaong Convention Center.

“I can see his sincerity. He wants to do something, maybe go back to the glory of his father,” Suarez, who introduced Marcos in the event, in a chance interview following the successful rally.

With this, the governor and former House Minority Leader confidently said that Quezon will carry both Marcos and Duterte to victory on May 9.

“Siguro mga 300,000 to 400,000 kayang ilamang ni BBM, BongbongSara. Malaki, malaki. I assure you this will be an unprecedented election. (I believe a 300,000 to 400,000 margin of victory is achievable for BBM-Sara tandem. assure you this will be an unprecedented election),” Suarez said.

Marcos, standard-bearer of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP); and Duterte, chairperson of Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (CMD) received the two loudest cheers during their respective introductions.

Another huge crowd greeted Marcos and Duterte during the UniTeam grand rally at Quezon Convention Center in Lucena City.

Lacson says he’s against abolition of SK

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

ISKO’S TEAM IN LAGUNA. Presidential candidate and Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, with vice presidential candidate Doc Willie Ong and Aksyon Demokratiko senatorial candidates Bro. John Castriciones, Atty. Jopet Sison, Carl Balita and their newest party-list representative team mate Mocha Uson lay out their plans and platforms to people inside the Barangay Balibago covered court in Sta. Rosa, Laguna Province. Norman Cruz

PARTIDO Reporma standard-bearer Panfilo Lacson encouraged the youth to lead active political lives to help steer the nation toward a better direction, and become effective future leaders.

“Get involved please, young people.

Get yourselves involved in the national affairs of our country because you are the ones who will inherit it. That’s why we all have something at stake here. Do not say that you don’t care about it,” he said.

If elected president, Lacson said assured that youth leaders who are elected to the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) would have active roles in shaping their communities with ample support from their respective local government units (LGUs).

Lacson and Senate President Vicente Sotto III will not support recommendations to abolish SK organizations, Lacson

further said.

The presidential candidate acknowledged that youth councils are there to help develop future public servants.

“The SK is a good training ground for the future leaders of our country),” said Lacson, who recognized the positive contributions of the youth in different sectors of our society.

During his visit to Maddela, Quirino last week, there were youth leaders who shared their problems over lack of support from some of their LGUs for their community-based projects. Lacson heard the same from the SK members of Cabanatuan City.

The presidential candidate informed them that under the law, youth councils are actually entitled to receive at least 10 percent of the general funds of their barangays, derived from the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) of the LGUs.

Gatchalian urges fast-tracking of LPG rules SENATOR Win Gatchalian on Wednesday urged the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to fast-track the promulgation of the law regulating the domestic liquified petroleum gas (LPG) industry to ensure consumer protection against industry malpractices.

In observance of Fire Prevention Month, the re-electionist senator underscored the significance of RA 11592, which took 18 years and seven Congresses, in ensuring the removal of unsafe tanks from circulation.

This aims to prevent fire incidents involving LPGs. The law also institutionalizes the cylinder exchange and swapping program to allow

consumers to purchase any LPG cylinder brand of their choice.

“It has been five months since the signing of the Republic Act No.11592, otherwise known as the LPG Industry Regulation Act, and we have yet to hear the release of the law’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR),” said Gatchalian, principal author and sponsor of the measure.

A total of 787 LPG-related fire incidents nationwide were recorded last year by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and six of which were caused by defective tanks.

A similar incident took place last Feb. 20 in Sta. Cruz, Manila which claimed the lives of four persons. Macon Ramos-Araneta

WOMEN’S MONTH CELEBRATION. Arjo Atayde, who is

running as District 1 representative in Quezon City, has recently joined the celebration of International Women’s Month with fellow artists Vina Morales, Jed Madela, Enchong Dee, and Nova Villa, along with the Team Aksyon Agad party, led by Mayor Joy Belmonte.

Opinion 1986 People Power for Cory, 2022 for Leni was the nation’s second-highest official. Cory Aquino was a reluctant but inevitable challenger to Ferdinand E. Marcos, but Leni Robredo was merely biding her time before launching her widely desired candidacy for the presidency.

OBSESSED with his allegedly massive opinion-surveys lead and firmly believing that his I-will-unitethe-nation campaign slogan will book him a ticket to Malacanang, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is blissfully unaware of the new People Power movement that is building up around him and that is threatening to bring down his bid to succeed his father and namesake, Ferdinand E. Marcos, as president of the Philippines.

The original People Power movement – the one and only EDSA Revolution –nwas of course, the mass of Filipinoswho, during four days in February 1986, rallied against Ferdinand E. Marcos and caused the eviction from Malacanang and forced exile in Hawaii of the Marcos family. The People Power mass disbanded only after receiving the official announcement that Ferdinand E. Marcos had left the country.

Leni People Power differs from Cory People Power in several ways.

For starters, it is peaceful. Unlike the violent environment in which Cory People Power developed – mass arrest of suspected “rebels,” displays of military firepower, threats of bombardment, etc., the People Power buildup that is in progress is rooted in peaceful protest, adherence to the rule of law, respect for individual rights and primacy of civilian rule.

A second point of dissimilarity between Cory People Power and Leni People Power is the difference between the public records of Cory Aquino and Leni Robredo at the time they launched their respective candidacies for the presidency. Cory, the widow of the then-recently assassinated Senator Ninoy Aquino, was a well-bred and well-educated woman whose only claim to fame was being the dutiful wife of a highly successful politician. In contrast, Leni Robredo was a lawyer who understood economics, was the effective partner of a major-city mayor and

Someone is in for a surprise.

The third and most significant point of dissimilarity between Cory People Power and Leni People Power is the latter’s volunteerism aspect. Whereas Ferdinand Marcos Jr. – now better known as BBM – is spreading hundreds of millions of pesos that his parents stole from the nation’s coffers, Leni Robredo’s campaign is heavily supported by volunteers who donate money – some of it in modest amounts – and contribute their effort, time and ideas. This is a nationwide phenomenon that has been growing in nature, magnitude and scope. Pink is steadily becoming the 2022 electoral season’s predominant color, and pink garments and paraphernalia are being widely seen in a steadily increasing number of provinces, cities and municipalities. People who contribute and volunteer resources to a candidate must be wanting change very badly.

Those who claim that Leni Robredo is resorting to paying for voter support clearly do not have their ears to the ground.

Still, the Cory People Power and Leni People Power are similar in one key respect. Cory Aquino was fighting a Ferdinand Marcos in 1986; Leni Robredo is likewise fighting a Ferdinand Marcos. The Cory forces waged a valiant and determined campaign against Marcos Sr. and won. The Leni forces are fighting a fierce and noble battle against Ferdinand Jr. and will prevail, Pulse Asia survey results notwithstanding.

Leni’s People Power is going from strength to strength. Like Ferdinand E. Marcos, BBM is in for an unpleasant surprise on May 9. The difference between the 1986 results and the coming 2022 results is that BBM and his family will not have to be sent to exile in Hawaii this time around.

Violence, drugs, elections

LAST week, the Quezon Provincial Police and the National Bureau of Investigation seized 1.5 metric tons of shabu in the Municipality of Infanta, Quezon. The drugs were valued at almost P12 billion. The high-value shabu allegedly had come from the islands before being transported by land.

This has been regarded as the biggest drug haul in the country in history.

With this, we laud the Philippine National Police, National Bureau of Investigation, and the military for the successful operation. Meanwhile, we must not be complacent. The provincial government continues to be committed in its drive against illegal drugs in the province. It is interesting to note, however, that the shipment was done while Mayora Grace, the Chief Executive of Infanta, was recovering from an attempted murder. Was it only a coincidence?

While the police are still investigating the motive behind the attempt on Mayora Grace’s life,

many surmise that it was politically motivated. Whether this is true or not, I call on local candidates to observe decency, respect, and value for human life throughout the election period. I have already declared that violence has no place in our province. I also strongly urge local candidates to absolutely refrain from engaging in illegal activities, more so in illegal drug trade, to fuel personal interests. I will not allow anyone to take advantage of our coastal waters and use Quezonians for illegal drug trafficking.

Be wary of fake news. Find credible sources of information.

The NBI is already preparing the charges for the suspects in the drug haul. To aid and speed up the investigations, I am offering a P1million reward to anyone who will report those behind the billionsworth of drug shipment. Another million will also be given to anyone who will come forward and report the person/s responsible for the attempt on Mayora Grace’s life. We will make sure that the perpetrators of these crimes will be held liable.

ManilaStandard

Published Monday to Sunday by Philippine Manila Standard Publishing Inc. at 6/F Universal Re Building, 106 Paseo de Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City. Telephone numbers 8-5646225 and 8-5646229 (connecting all departments), (Editorial) 832-5554, (Advertising) 832-5550. P.O. Box 2933, Manila Central Post Office, Manila. Website: www. manilastandard.net

ONLINE

can be accessed at: manilastandard.net

MEMBER

PPI

Philippine Press Institute The National Association of Philippine Newspapers

THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

B1

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

EDITORIAL

It’s about time

P

RESIDENT Duterte on Monday signed into law a measure amending the Public Service Act (PSA), effectively allowing 100 percent foreign ownership of telecommunications companies, airlines and railways.

It’s about time.

For far too long, we have denied these key sectors of our economy the benefit of foreign capital and expertise, shackled as they were to a provision in our Constitution that limits the foreign ownership of public utilities to a maximum of 40 percent.

Restrictions such as these have held the country back.

The 2020 index published by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development showed the Philippines has some of the most restrictive foreign direct investment rules globally. The country ranked 95 out of 190 countries in the World Bank’s “Doing Business 2020” report.

In 2020, the Philippines, with foreign direct investments (FDI) inflows of $6.5 billion, ranked only fourth among countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), behind Singapore ($90.6 billion), Indonesia ($18.6 billion) and Vietnam ($15.8 billion).

But now, the amendments exclude telecommunications, domestic ship-

ping, railways and subways, airlines, expressways and tollways, and airports from the definition of a public utility— thereby freeing them from the 40-percent limit on foreign ownership.

For far too long, we have denied these key sectors of our economy the benefit of foreign capital and expertise.

The country’s economic managers are understandably upbeat about the new rules of the game.

Economic Planning Secretary Karl Kendrick Chua said the liberalized equity rules would encourage more foreign investments and innovation, and would lower prices for consumers, improve the quality of goods and services, and create more and better jobs.

Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said he expects the country to get $60 bil-

lion to $100 billion worth of investments in the next two years with the signing into law of the amendments to the PSA. Business groups both foreign and domestic are bullish as well. The German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, for example, says the “game-changing law” would help spur the country’s economic recovery. The American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines says the signing of the law, along with other recent liberalization bills—the Retail Trade Liberalization Act and the Foreign Investments Act—will significantly enable the Philippines to compete with its regional neighbors in investments. The new laws, AmCham added, will match the policies that Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam already have in place.

To be sure, there are those who continue to oppose liberalization, saying that consistent with the 1987 Constitution, certain industries should be reserved for Filipinos. Fortunately for the economy, these views are in the minority, and the new laws offer a creative way to sidestep an economically xenophobic Charter that has held us back for far too long.

The lawmakers who made this happen—and the Duterte administration— deserve our thanks.

Nuclear power plants

THREE months before President Duterte leaves office, he did two things that might have significant impact not only on our environment but the safety of many Filipinos. He signed an Executive Order adding nuclear power into the mix of options for the country’s future generating capacity. He also approved the recommendation of the DENR to authorize the resumption of open-pit mining that will further destroy our environment which has already been heavily degraded as a result of more than 100 years of mining.

Nuclear power has been a very controversial issue ever since the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant was mothballed by the first Aquino administration due to, among others, corruption and safety considerations.

The country however, pledged to do its part in limiting the increase of global temperature to not more than 1.5 degrees Celsius.

This is done by replacing fossil fuel with renewable energy like wind and solar. It is no secret that most of the power plants that were constructed in the recent past are coal-powered, principally because they are cheaper to build.

Nuclear power, however, is one that does not emit harmful gasses into the atmosphere. The big question is, should the country be embracing this considering that we are right in the middle of the socalled ring of fire? Earthquakes in the country are a dime a dozen and many are moderately strong.

The mothballed BNPP is also right

Local campaign period starts tomorrow. Amidst the adversities, I am hopeful that we will have peaceful and orderly campaign activities and elections in the province. I expect nothing less than absolute compliance to the laws and

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

in a densely populated area like Metro Manila where majority of the population in the Island of Luzon reside. What happens if a very strong earthquake like the one that struck Fukushima, Japan in 2011 strikes near the BNNP? Fukushima is still a wasteland like Chernobyl in Ukraine.

Just a few days ago a 7.4-magnitude earthquake hit northern Japan – again, near a nuclear power plant – killing four people. This prompted some Japanese lawmakers to question if it is still wise to reactivate the other Japanese nuclear power plants that were closed as a result of the 2011 earthquake.

It’s not only earthquakes that we should fear but also a nuclear power plant accident like a reactor meltdown. Where will all the Filipinos evacuate in case of a nuclear power plant accident? We have to remember that we are a densely populated country.

In spite of the obvious dangers, there are many who still would like to fast track nuclear power development in the country. Do they realize that there is hardly any place to put up a nuclear power plant that is far from population centers in this country? The best arguments of nuclear power proponents are that nuclear technology has improved tremendously over the years and that it should be safe to put up nuclear power plants even in a country like the Philippines. This may be so, but I would not be betting too much on this.

What happened in Japan should be a warning to us. The Japanese are so safety conscious but none-

theless, they were not able to tame the wrath and fury of a natural disaster that devastated their country and killed about 16,00 people.

We should go easy on nuclear power.

Last week, the first mining license was also issued. Prospective foreign investors must be singing happy days are here again. Openpit mining will now follow which will level many of our mountains.

It is incomprehensible why our government continues to embrace open pit mining that destroys irreplaceable mountains. There is no such thing as responsible mining.

Once a mountain is leveled to the ground, it’s gone forever. It can never be restored, which should be food for thought to our government officials.

••• Last week, former President Fidel V Ramos celebrated his 94th birthday. As part of the celebration, his Presidential Library was inaugurated virtually. This will open all his papers collected from 1950 when he graduated from West Point up to the time when left the presidency in 1998 to the public. Needless to say, this library will be a veritable gold mine for academic researchers looking for answers about events that transpired in the country in the last fifty years wherein President Ramos was a participant.

Not much has been heard about him the past two years due to the pandemic. It might interest his friends, admirers and loyal followers to know that he is alert and doing well for a man of his age. But his forced isolation is understandably hard on a man who likes to meet and socialize with friends.

Due to his age however, social distancing from friends and wellwishers is what his doctors want him to do. So, to all his friends and loyal followers, the Boss is OK.

rules and regulations from local candidates and the people.

Meanwhile, I urge our voters to discern carefully in May. Be wary of fake news. Find credible sources of information. Know the backgrounds and accomplishments

of your candidates. Research their track records. This coming election is critical not only to national growth and recovery, but also to local development. Choose who you think will serve you well. Vote wisely.

We should learn from what happened in Japan.

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher Chin Wong/Ray S. Eñano Joyce Pangco Pañares Jimbo Owen Gulle

Associate Editors News Editor City Editor

Honor Blanco Cabie Night Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

B2

World

THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

100,000 trapped in Mariupol ‘hellscape’ K YIV—Almost 100,000 people are trapped among the ruins of the Ukrainian city of Mariupol, facing starvation, thirst and relentless Russian bombardment, President Volodymyr Zelensky said as the UN sharpened demands for Moscow to end its “absurd” and “unwinnable” war.

Tens of thousands of residents have already fled the besieged southern port city, bringing harrowing testimony of a “freezing hellscape riddled with dead bodies and destroyed buildings”, according to Human Rights Watch.

In his latest video address Tuesday, Zelensky said more than 7,000 people had escaped in the last 24 hours alone, but one group travelling along an agreed humanitarian route west of the city were “simply captured by the occupiers.”

He warned that many thousands more were unable to leave as the humanitarian situation worsens.

“Today, the city still has nearly 100,000 people in inhumane conditions. In a total siege. Without food, water, medication, under constant shelling and under constant bombing,” he said, renewing calls for Russia to allow safe humanitarian corridors for civilians to escape.

Satellite images of Mariupol released by private company Maxar showed a charred landscape, with several buildings ablaze and smoke billowing from the city.

The Pentagon has said Russia is now pummeling Mariupol using artillery, long-range missiles and from naval ships deployed in the nearby Sea of Azov.

Local Ukrainian forces also report “heavy” ground fighting with Russian “infantry storming the city” after they rejected a Monday ultimatum to surrender.

UN relief agencies estimate there have been around 20,000 civilian casualties in the city, and perhaps 3,000 Manila

AUCTION SALE Standard ACME PAWNSHOP, INC.

TODAY

Auction sale on April 05, 2022 10:00 a.m. MJ Holding Bldg., Almanza Las Piñas; 12:00 noon Manila Alabang Town Center Stall 2074 U/L, 2:00 pm G/F TODAY Majalco Bldg.

Benavidez St., Legaspi Village, Makati and L&R Bldg., 1018 Pasay Road, Makati and 4:00 pm Circle C G14, #17 Congressional Ave. Bahay Toro D1, Quezon City. All items Pawned November 01-30, 2021.

killed, but they stress “the actual figure remains unknown.”

Mariupol’s former mayor Sergiy Taruta vowed the city would never forgive Russia’s siege.

“There will never be enough rage.

There will never be enough revenge.

There will never be enough retribution,” he said in a Facebook post.

“For all the lives taken, the fates broken, for all the children killed, tears and suffering, each of the occupiers will never be at peace.”

The almost month-long siege of Mariupol has brought ever-harsher international condemnation.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Tuesday called for Russia to end its “absurd war.”

“Even if Mariupol falls, Ukraine cannot be conquered city by city, street by street, house by house,” he said.

“This war is unwinnable. Sooner or later, it will have to move from the battlefield to the peace table. That is inevitable.”

Mariupol is a pivotal target in President Vladimir Putin’s war -- providing a land bridge between Russian forces in Crimea to the southwest and Russiancontrolled territory to the north and east.

- ‘We live here’ As US President Joe Biden readied to visit allies in Europe, he warned that with Russia’s offensive stalling, Putin was considering using chemical and biological weapons.

“Now Putin’s back is against the wall,” Biden said. “And the more his back is against the wall, the greater the severity of the tactics he may employ.” AFP

IN MEMORIAM.

A portrait of a young woman who died during a Russian attack is pictured with flowers next to her fresh grave in the cemetery of in Mykolaiv, southern Ukraine, on March 21. AFP

Biden heads to Europe to bolster West’s unity, toughen Russia sanctions WASHINGTON—President Joe Biden leaves Wednesday for Europe on a mission to bolster Western unity, ramp up unprecedented sanctions against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine and attempt to upset the post-Cold War balance of power.

The conflict with Russian President Vladimir Putin is redefining Biden’s 14-month old presidency as he pivots from domestic woes to leading the transatlantic alliance in the most serious crisis in Europe for decades.

After four years of Donald Trump, who treated European nations as economic competitors and scorned the traditional US role as senior partner in NATO, Biden has put the accent on unity. At back-to-back summits in Brussels

on Thursday, he’ll be pushing for more. European Council. He flies Friday to White House National Security Ad- Poland, which neighbors Ukraine and visor Jake Sullivan told reporters that is now the frontline in what some call Biden will seek to “reinforce the incred- a new Cold War, and on Saturday he ible unity we built with allies and part- meets President Andrzej Duda. ners.”

The intense diplomacy marks a cruSullivan also said that economic cial moment in the dangerous standoff sanctions, imposed by a global network with Putin, who seeks to force Ukraine of Western allies to cripple Russia’s fi- from its pro-Western path. After a nances, will be deepened. month of fighting, Russian forces have A further package will be “rolled out laid waste to swaths of the country in conjunction with our allies on Thurs- but have made few significant military day,” Sullivan said. He gave no details, gains, while Ukraine continues to resist. other than to say the package “will foSullivan noted Ukraine’s success, cus not just on adding new sanctions but which has been assisted by largeon ensuring that there is joint effort to scale Western arms shipments, but he crack down on evasion on sanctions.” warned against any presumption of a On Thursday, Biden will attend sum- quick end to the war or a climbdown mits with NATO, the G7 group andCYAN the MAGENTA

by Moscow.YELLOW AFP BLACK

Russia sentences Navalny to nine years in jail, extending prison term

POKROV—A Russian court on Tuesday found jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny guilty of additional charges and extended his sentence to nine years in a higher security prison as Moscow seeks to wipe out remaining pockets of dissent.

The sentencing came on the 27th day of what Moscow calls its “special military operation” in pro-Western Ukraine, with thousands killed and some 10 million displaced.

NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION Following the verThe public is hereby notified that SOVEREIGN dict, President VladiVENTURES INCORPORATED, a corporation mir Putin’s most vocal organized and existing under Philippine laws,

Standard

(MS-MAR. 24 2022)

with registered address at Room 1504 Horizon Condominium, Meralco Ave., Ortigas Center, Pasig City, Philippines, will be DISSOLVED through shortening of its corporate term in accordance with Section 136 of the Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines. The corporation’s dissolution will automatically take effect on the day following the last day of its shortened corporate term as stated in the corporation’s amended articles of incorporation, without the need for the issuance by the Securities and Exchange Commission of a certificate of dissolution

(MS-MAR. 10/17/24, 2022)

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 217, QUEZON CITY MARSIAN INDUSTRIAL SALES AND SUPPLY CORPORATION, duly represented by LUIS BENEDICTO N. ONG, Plaintiff, -vsCIVIL CASE NO. R-QZN-19-07023-CV AGA & SONS CONSTRUCTION & DEVLOPMENT CORPORATION, Defendant, x----------------------------------------------------------------x

NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE WHEREAS, by virtue ofthe Writ of Execution dated November 4,2020, issued by the HON. DOLLY ROSE R. BOLANTEPRADO, Acting Presiding Judge of this Court, in the aboveentitled case, which plaintiff has recovered in our Court against defendant for the recovery of the Philippine Currency per plaintiff’s counsel computed amount of claims, in the amount of the sum of SIX HUNDRED FORTY ONE THOUSAND, SIX HUNDRED SIXTY SIX PESOS and SIXTY SEVEN 67/100 CENTAVOS(Php641,666.67) plus interests until fully paid, of which real property [ building or improvements only] is being levied before the Assessor’s Office, Pasig City and said property is located and more particularly described as follows, to wit: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX.....................TAX DECLARATION NUMBER E-022-13050, containing an area of total:180.70 sq. m ...... Located at Eusebio Ave., San Miguel, Pasig City .......

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX. Registered for Taxation purposes in the name of AGA & SONS CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENTCORPORATION. NOW THEREFORE, by virtue of the said Writ of Execution and in accordance with the provision of the Rules of Court, the undersigned Sheriff, hereby gives notice to all interested parties and to the public in general, that on April 21,2022 at 10:00 A.M. or soon thereafter at the main entrance ofthe Hall of Justice Bldg.

Annex, City Hall Compound, Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City, the undersigned will SELL at public auction to the highest bidder for CASH and in Philippine Currency, the above-described personal property [ building only], in order to satisfy the writ of execution together with all the expenses for the execution and sale.

This Notice of Sheriff’s Sale will be published in a newspaper of general circulation accredited in the office of the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court, Quezon City, once a week for three consecutive weeks. The first publication to take place at least twenty [20] days before the date of auction sale.

Likewise, three [3] copies of this notice shall be posted in three [3] public places where the property is located. Also, copies of the-same will be posted in the bulletin board of the City Hall of Quezon City, Regional Trial Court, Quezon City, and this Court.

Prospective buyers are hereby enjOined to investigate for themselves the Tax Declaration of said property, and the encumbrances if any.

Please be guided accordingly.

Quezon City for Pasig City, February 21, 2022.

(Sgd.) REYNALDO B. MADOLARIA Sheriff IV Copy Furnished: All Concerned parties.

(MStandard - Mar. 17, 24 & 31, 2022)

domestic critic who has been behind bars for more than a year said the Russian leader was afraid of the truth.

“Putin is afraid of the truth, I have always said this. Fighting censorship, relaying the truth to the people of Russia always remained our priority,” the 45-year-old opposition politician said in a post on Instagram after the sentencing.

With his trademark sense of humor, Navalny took the extension of his jail time on new charges of embezzlement and contempt of court in stride, joking that his “space flight is being extended -- my ship has gotten caught in

a time loop.”

He also urged Russians to resist “these war criminals”.

He stood trial inside his penal colony in the town of Pokrov outside Moscow.

“Navalny committed fraud -- the theft of property by an organized group,” judge Margarita Kotova said, according to an AFP reporter present at the hearing.

The judge also found Navalny guilty of the less severe charge of contempt of court.

Navalny will serve his new sentence in a strict-regime penal colony, which will place him in much harsher conditions. AFP

Heavy rain stalls salvage of crashed China Eastern jet WUZHOU, China—Heavy rains on Wednesday hampered the recovery of a China Eastern jet that nosedived into a mountain with 132 passengers onboard, a disaster that has mystified crash investigators who are yet to locate the black boxes.

Three days on from Monday’s crash and there are no signs of survivors, yet officials have refrained from declaring all of the passengers dead, in what is almost certain to be China’s deadliest plane crash in nearly 30 years.

Hundreds of firefighters, officials and volunteers have scoured the rugged terrain near Wuzhou in southern China for signs of the 123 passengers and nine crew onboard the ill-fated flight MU5735, which crashed on Monday afternoon after losing contact with air traffic control.

Aviation investigators say they need the flight recorders on the Boeing 737-800 before they can assess why the jet plunged.

Flight tracking website FlightRadar24 showed the plane sharply dropped from an altitude of 29,100 to 7,850 feet (about 8,900 to 2,400 metres) in just over a minute.

After a brief upswing, it dropped again to 3,225 feet (983 metres), the tracker said.

On Wednesday, rescuers were forced to pause the search as rains raised risks to teams working in a zone marked by pulverized bits of metal, debris and charred belongings.

A reporter for state broadcaster CCTV given access to the crash area said there were risks of “small-scale landslides” as rain had destabilized the steep slopes. AFP

IN BRIEF

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Tornado kills at least 1 near New Orleans

WASHINGTON—A large tornado destroyed homes and claimed at least one life near the US city of New Orleans on Tuesday night, according to media reports.

“Large tornado on the ground in New Orleans! Take shelter now!” tweeted the National Weather Service’s local office at 8:35 pm local time (0235 GMT).

“Severe damage to homes” was reported in Arabi, an eastern suburb of New Orleans, according to a Facebook post by the sheriff’s office in St. Bernard Parish.

“Rescue efforts are under way for residents trapped in their homes,” it added.

At least one person was killed in Arabi, the president of the parish -- equivalent to a county in Louisiana -- told local TV station WDSU. Images circulating on local TV channels and online showed homes torn apart, with light poles, power lines and debris strewn across the streets.

“State agencies are assisting local officials as needed as they assess the damage and impacts of these tornadoes,” tweeted Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards.

“My prayers are with you in Southeast Louisiana tonight. Please be safe.” AFP

6.7 earthquake rattles Taiwan, injures one PLASTIC ART. People walk through an art installation made from plastic water

bottles as part of an awareness drive on World Water Day in Malang, East Java on March 22. AFP

Afghan girls’ schools shut hours after reopening KABUL—The Taliban ordered girls’ secondary schools in Afghanistan to shut Wednesday just hours after they reopened, an official confirmed, sparking confusion and heartbreak over the policy reversal by the hardline Islamist group.

“Yes, it’s true,” Taliban spokesman Inamullah Samangani told AFP when asked to confirm reports that girls had been ordered home.

He would not immediately explain the reasoning, while education ministry spokesman Aziz Ahmad Rayan said: “We are not allowed to comment on this”.

An AFP team was filming at Zarghona High School in the capital, Kabul, when a teacher entered and said class was over.

Crestfallen students, back at school for the first time since the Taliban seized power in August last year, tearfully packed up their belongings and filed out.

“I see my students crying and reluctant to leave classes,” said Palwasha, a teacher at Omra Khan girls’ school in Kabul.

“It is very painful to see your students crying.”

United Nations envoy Deborah Lyons called reports of the closure “disturbing”.

“If true, what could possibly be the reason?” she tweeted.

When the Taliban took over last August, schools were closed because of the Covid-19 pandemic, but only boys and younger girls were allowed to resume classes two months later.

There were fears the Taliban would shut down all formal education for girls, as they did during their first stint in power from 1996 to 2001.

The international community has made the right to education for all a sticking point in negotiations over aid and recognition of the new Taliban regime, with several nations and organizations offering to pay teachers. AFP

TAIPEI—A magnitude 6.7 earthquake that struck off the coast of Taiwan early Wednesday rattled buildings and roused people from their sleep, leaving one injured and causing a half-constructed bridge in the island’s east to collapse.

Taiwan is regularly hit by earthquakes as it lies near the junction of two tectonic plates. It does not issue tsunami warnings unless a quake registers at more than magnitude 7.0.

The US Geological Survey initially estimated the 1:41 am (1741 GMT Tuesday) quake to be magnitude 6.9, but downgraded it to 6.6 before finally assessing it back up to 6.7.

It also revised the depth from an initial 10 kilometers (six miles) to 24 km.

The quake hit off Taiwan’s east coast -- near the island’s scenic tourist city Hualien -- but was felt over much of the island.

Government-issued alerts sent people’s cell phones blaring, and social media lit up with people posting their reactions on being woken up.

“The chandelier on my ceiling shook for more than three minutes and didn’t stop,” local reporter Chao Li wrote on Facebook.

“It’s shaking so much, it scares people to death,” he said in an accompanying video.

An AFP reporter also felt their building in Taipei’s Zhongshan district shake a few minutes just after 1:41 am. AFP

Business PSEi March 23, 2022

TOP GAINERS

1 LFM 2 MA 3 MAB 4 CAB

LAST PRICE CHANGE 25.95 4.95 0.012 0.002 0.011 0.001 50 4.15

% CHANGE 23.57% 20.00% 10.00% 9.05%

5 6 7 8 9 10

1.13 5.88 26.8 9 0.59 0.6

8.65% 6.91% 5.93% 5.76% 5.36% 5.26%

HTI EEI CNVRG ANS ALCO FCG

0.09 0.38 1.5 0.49 0.03 0.03

TOP LOSERS

1 ACEX 2 STR 3 OPM 4 ROCK 5 NOW 6 EAGLE 7 LCB 8 IPO 9 AXLM

LAST PRICE CHANGE 17.6 -3.4 3.18 -0.31 0.011 -0.001 1.34 -0.11 1.23 -0.09 12.8 -0.88 0.16 -0.01 6.69 -0.41 2.5 -0.12

% CHANGE -16.19% -8.88% -8.33% -7.59% -6.82% -6.43% -5.88% -5.77% -4.58%

10

0.85

-4.49%

MEDIC

-0.04

B3

THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

Stock market closes flat; Converge, URC advance T HE stock market closed flat Wednesday in mixed trading, with many investors consolidating their position amid the war in Ukraine.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index added just less than a point to 7,009.43 on a value turnover of P5.9 billion.

Gainers edged losers, 91 to 85, with 48 issues unchanged.

Fiber broadband provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. climbed 5.9 percent to P26.80, while Universal Robina Corp., the biggest snack food maker, advanced 3.5 percent to P111.90.

PLDT Inc., the biggest telecommunications firm, rose 3.1 percent to P1,785, but International Container Terminal Services Inc., the largest port operator and owned by tycoon Enrique Razon Jr., dropped 3.2 percent to P220.40.

The rest of Asian markets extended gains Wednesday, tracking a rally in New York, on optimism that the Federal Reserve’s plan to hike interest rates will help bring inflation under control.

While there remains plenty of concern about the war in Ukraine, analysts said some confidence had seeped back into trading floors as investors bet on consumer resilience and economies continue to reopen.

Fed boss Jerome Powell said Monday that the central bank was prepared to act more aggressively on lifting borrowing costs if inflation—already at a 40-year high—does not fall quickly enough.

Officials lifted rates last week by a quarter of a point but some have advocated hikes of half a point, a view Powell suggested he was open to, adding that he was happy the economy was strong enough to withstand such a move.

While the faster and steeper rate of hikes would make it costlier for inves-

tors to borrow, commentators said the Fed’s stance gave them confidence it could get a grip on prices.

“We are positive for equities for this year,” Seema Shah, of Principal Global Investors, told Bloomberg Television.

She added that while the near-term outlook would be challenging with recession risks rising, “we still think the US economy is pretty good fundamentally.”

“Faster hikes are clearly going to help inflation come down,” which may reduce the need for a longer tightening campaign.

All three main indexes on Wall Street rallied Tuesday, with the Nasdaq piling on two percent.

And Asia took up the baton, with Tokyo jumping three percent and Hong Kong continuing to bask in a tech rally fueled by China’s pledge of support for markets, putting on more than one percent. With AFP

MOST ACTIVE

1 SM 2 SMPH 3 ALI 4 URC 5 ICT

VOLUME 1,170,230 7,640,900 8,052,700 2,437,090 1,113,440

VALUE (PHP) 1,014,067,675 295,026,175 284,020,380 272,493,515 247,433,878

6 7 8 9

CNVRG TEL ACEN JFC

8,465,700 109,770 23,001,400 824,150

223,149,000 194,109,780 184,657,030 173,390,582

10

BDO

1,208,310

156,823,125

ALL SYSTEMS GO. Employees of the Tesla’s ‘Gigafactory’ wearing yellow vests cheer during the start of the production at on March 22, 2022 in Gruenheide, southeast of Berlin. US electric car pioneer Tesla received the go-ahead for its ‘gigafactory’ in Germany on March 4, 2022, paving the way for production to begin shortly after an approval process dogged by delays and setbacks. AFP

US announces deal with UK to end steel, aluminum tariffs WASHINGTON, United States—The United States on Tuesday announced an agreement with Britain to end tariffs on steel and aluminum imports imposed by former president Donald Trump.

“By allowing for a flow of duty-free steel and aluminum from the UK, we further ease the gap between supply and demand for these products in the United States,” Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said in a statement.

“And by removing the UK’s retaliatory tariffs, we reopen the British market to beloved American products.”

The deal was the latest in a series of ef-

forts by President Joe Biden to settle trade spats with US allies, some of which were long-running and others started under the Trump administration.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson cheered the announcement of the deal “with our American friends.”

“This is fantastic news and a very welcome boost to our steel and aluminum industries,” he said on Twitter.

Washington and London in January announced the start of negotiations to end the dispute, which began in 2018 when Trump imposed levies of 25 percent on steel and 10 percent on aluminum imports from Britain and other nations to protect

US industry.

US companies for years have struggled to compete with the glut of supply coming out of China, but Trump penalized close trade partners citing national security concerns, which worsened relations with major US allies.

The Biden administration in October reached a deal to end the tariffs on the European Union, and in early February did the same with Japan.

Under the deal announced Tuesday, Britain will lift retaliatory tariffs it imposed on $500 million in American imports, including alcohol and consumer goods, the statement said. AFP

Stranded in the Arctic, oligarch’s superyacht may set off soon

By Pierre-Henry Deshayes NARVIK, Norway—An ultra-luxurious yacht owned by a Russian oligarch and former KGB officer may soon be on its way again after weeks of being refused fuel by Norwegians.

The converted icebreaker is docked in the port of Narvik, a small town in Norway’s far north, where it has been snubbed by fuel suppliers in protest over the Ukraine war.

With its imposing bow and helicopter platform, its dark grey silhouette stands in contrast to the cargo ships that come to load iron ore transported from a mine in neighboring Sweden.

But, it is the identity of its owner which makes it a local curiosity: the 68-meter (223-foot) yacht, said to house a host of toys—like jet-skis, snowmobiles and ROVs, as well as amenities like an English pub—belongs to Vladimir Strzhalkovsky, according to various yacht industry sites.

The 67-year-old businessman, who became extremely wealthy after a stint as the head of the mining giant Norilsk Nickel, is said to have links to Vladimir Putin, with whom he served in the KGB in Saint Petersburg, when the city was still called Leningrad.

Although he is not on the list of Russians targeted by European sanctions following the invasion of Ukraine, his alleged ties to the Russian leader has spooked locals and when the Ragnar needed to refuel in Narvik, where it anchored on February 15, no one there would sell him fuel.

A 68-meter luxury yacht called Ragnar, owned by a former KGB officer, Russian oligarch Vladimir Strzhalkovsky, is pictured at the quay in Narvik, north Norway on March 21, 2022. Local fuel suppliers refuse to refill the vessel since it arrived at the Narvik port on February 15, 2022, although its owner, linked to Russian President Vladimir Putin, is not on the EU sanctions list. AFP

‘Let them row’ “I have no sympathy for the conduct of the Russians in Ukraine. Why should we help them?” argued Sven Holmlund, director of one of the local suppliers.

“Let them row home. Or hoist sails,” he told Norwegian public broadcaster NRK. Unable to leave, the yacht has been condemned to stay in port for five weeks now.

There, it has seen NATO warships participating in the Cold Response 2022 exercise, currently taking place in Norway.

This week, the Russian oligarch’s ship was even moored next to the Italian aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi.

The yacht’s captain, a former Royal Marine, has not hidden his frustration.

In a note posted in the harbor, Rob Lankaster said he and his crew were “very disappointed in the double standards” applied by their Norwegian hosts, who agreed to supply Russian fishing trawlers but not the Maltese-flagged yacht he was

commanding—which had an all-Western crew, and whose owner he claimed not to know.

According to website Superyachtfan, the Ragnar was put up for sale for 69.5 million euros ($76.5 million) in 2021. But there is no indication that the boat was actually sold.

Sailing on Tuesday?

The case is an inconvenience for Norway’s authorities, who have themselves adopted almost all the sanctions imposed by the European Union (EU) but are generally reluctant to anger their powerful neighbor.

Seizing the yacht, as France and Italy have done, has been ruled out since Strzhalkovsky is not among those targeted by sanctions.

Without openly encouraging suppliers to have a change of heart, Norwegian minister for fisheries Bjornar Skjaran has signaled that it might be the easiest solution.

“We can all agree that the best thing now would be for the yacht to continue on its way,” he told NRK. AFP

Russia default has a ‘limited’ global impact —IMF official WASHINGTON, United States—The consequences for the global financial system if Russia cannot pay its foreign debts are likely to be “limited,” a senior official at the International Monetary Fund said Tuesday.

The United States and its allies have imposed tough financial sanctions on Russia in retaliation for its invasion of Ukraine, but Moscow so far has made debt payments.

Still, concerns remain about its ability to continue to service its loans—especially after the May 25 expiration of a US exemption that allows the transactions.

“If there were a default, I think the direct effect on the rest of the world would be quite limited, because the numbers that we’re looking at are relatively small from a global perspective,” said Gita Gopinath, the numbertwo official at the Washington-based crisis lender.

“It is not a systemic risk to the global economy,” although some banks have “greater exposure,” she said in a discussion with Foreign Policy magazine.

The sanctions effectively have severed Russia’s ties to the global financial system, prohibiting most transactions except for debt payments and oil purchases.

The measures also froze the government’s stockpile of $300 billion in foreign currency reserves held abroad.

Moscow last week avoided default after it made a $117 million interest payment on two dollar-denominated bonds, sending funds through JPMorgan and Citigroup, which confirmed with the US Treasury Department that the transactions were allowed.

The government had initially indicated it would make the payments in rubles, which debt ratings agencies said would be considered a default.

However, some obligations allow payment in local currency.

A source close to the matter told AFP on Tuesday that JPMorgan received another $66 million payment in US dollars, although the source could not confirm if the funds had yet been sent to Citi. AFP

Manila

Standard

TODAY NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING

Dear Stockholders: The Annual Stockholders’ Meeting of Atlas Consolidated Mining and Development Corporation (AT or the Company) will be held virtually on 26 April 2022 at 10:00 a.m. The proceedings will be livestreamed and voting will be conducted in absentia through the Company’s secure online voting facility.

AGENDA 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

Call to Order Certification of Notice and Quorum Approval of Minutes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held on 14 June 2021 Approval of the Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements for 2021 Election of Directors for 2022-2023 Ratification of Acts of the Board of Directors, Board Committees and Management Appointment of External Auditor Amendment of Article VI, Section 2 of the By-laws Open Forum Other Matters Adjournment

Annex A provides a brief explanation of each agenda item for approval.

The Board of Directors has fixed the end of trading hours of the Philippine Stock Exchange on 18 March 2022 as the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to receive notice of, participate and to vote at the meeting or any adjournment thereof.

Stockholders who intend to participate in the meeting via remote communication and exercise their vote in absentia must notify the Corporate Secretary by registering at https:// asmregister.atlasmining.com.ph and submit the required information therein on or before 15 April 2022. All information received will be subject to verification and validation by the Corporate Secretary.

Successfully registered stockholders can then cast their votes in absentia through the Company’s secure online voting facility and access the live streaming of the meeting. For the detailed registration and voting procedures, please refer to the “Guidelines for Participating via Remote Communication and Voting in Absentia” appended to the Information Statement, and posted on the Company’s website and PSE EDGE. Stockholders who wish to appoint a proxy must submit an advance electronic copy of their duly accomplished proxy forms (which need not be notarized) during registration, and send the originals on or before 15 April 2022 to the Office of the Corporate Secretary at 10th Floor Six/NEO, 5th Avenue cor. 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, for validation pursuant to the Company’s By-laws. A sample format of the proxy form for individual and corporate stockholders are attached.

Please visit https://atlasmining.com.ph/investor-relations/annual-stockholders-meeting for complete information on the meeting.

Thank you.

ELMER B. SERRANO Corporate Secretary ANNEX A: RATIONALE FOR AGENDA ITEMS Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held on 14 June 2021 The Minutes of the annual stockholders’ meeting held on 14 June 2021 were posted on the Company’s website and appended to the Information Statement. These minutes are subject to stockholders’ approval during this meeting.

Approval of the Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements for 2021 The Company’s financial and operating results for the year 2021 have been summarized in the Annual Report which includes the Audited Financial Statements (AFS) as of 31 December 2021, and will be presented for stockholders’ approval. The AFS as audited by the external auditor, Sycip Gorres Velayo & Company (SGV), have been reviewed and approved by the Audit Committee and the Board of Directors, and will be appended to the Definitive Information Statement.

Election of Directors for 2022-2023 The Corporate Governance Committee has pre-qualified nominees for directors for 20222023 and confirmed by the Board of Directors. The list of nominees and their profiles are provided in the Information Statement. The nominees’ proven competencies, expertise and qualifications will be invaluable to the Company’s strong performance.

General Ratification of Acts and Proceedings of the Board of Directors (BOD), Board Committees and Management for 2021 The ratification of acts and resolutions of the Board, Board Committees and Management of AT, from the date of the last meeting to the date of this meeting, which have been key to the successful performance of the Company, will be sought during the meeting. Significant acts and transactions are covered by appropriate disclosures with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Philippine Stock Exchange.

Appointment of External Auditor The Board, upon recommendation by the Audit Committee, approved and endorses the reappointment of SGV as the Company’s external auditor for 2022. The profile of the external auditor and the audit fee for 2021 are discussed in the Information Statement.

Amendment of Article VI, Section 2 of By-laws Approval by the Stockholders will be sought for the amendment of Section 2, Article VI of AT’s By-laws to remove duties of the Chairman of the Board which are within the functions of the President and Chief Executive Officer. This amendment has been approved and is being endorsed for stockholders’ approval by the Corporate Governance Committee and the Board of Directors. The proposed amendment is further detailed in the Information Statement.

(MS-MAR. 24 & 25, 2022)

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

B4

THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

PSE INDEX CLOSING Wednesday, March 23, 2022 0.49 PTS. 7,009.43

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

1,412,937,078 76,322 5,894,857,026.08 91 85

UNCHANGED

48

F oreign E xchange R ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23, 2022

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

52.4270

Japan

Yen

0.008277

0.4339

UK

Pound

1.326400

69.5392

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.127778

6.6990

Switzerland

Franc

1.072386

56.2220

Canada

Dollar

0.795482

41.7047

Singapore

Dollar

0.737246

38.6516

Australia

Dollar

0.746400

39.1315

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652661

139.0711

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266581

13.9760

Brunei

Dollar

0.734538

38.5096

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000070

0.0037

Thailand

Baht

0.029860

1.5655

UAE

Dirham

0.272287

14.2752

Euro

Euro

1.103100

57.8322

Korea

Won

0.000823

0.0431

China

Yuan

0.157085

8.2355

India

Rupee

0.013135

0.6886

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.237248

12.4382

New Zealand

Dollar

0.696000

36.4892

Taiwan

Dollar

0.035069

1.8386 Source: BSP

Cebu Pacific booked P24.9-b loss last year

Business

DOF: BPOs may choose WFH setup or tax perks

B

USINESS process outsourcing companies may choose between work-fromhome arrangements or the tax incentives they enjoy as locators in economic zones, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said Wednesday.

Dominguez said information technology-business process management companies registered with investment promotion agencies should comply with conditions in operating in ecozones to continue enjoying incentives, but are free to adopt WFH arrangements.

“IT-BPM companies in ecozones are allowed to adopt WFH arrangements.

No one is prohibiting them or impinging on their management prerogative to continue implementing their WFH set-

ups. However, they must give up the tax incentives they currently enjoy because the law is clear on this,” he said.

Companies registered with an investment promotion agency such as the Philippine Economic Zone Authority enjoy incentives such as an income tax holiday or a 5-percent special corporate income tax in lieu of all taxes, such as value added tax, income tax and local business tax.

As a condition for enjoying these incentives, they have to comply with Section 309 of the Tax Code which states that “a qualified registered project or activity under an investment promotion agency administering an economic zone or freeport shall be exclusively conducted or operated within the geographical boundaries of the zone or freeport being administered by the investment promotion agency in which the project or activity is registered.”

Dominguez said it would also be unfair to other companies outside ecozones that are paying regular taxes.

“Other companies such as micro, small

and medium enterprises pay the regular corporate income tax rate of 20 percent, while big corporations pay 25 percent,” Dominguez said.

The Fiscal Incentives Review Board, chaired by Dominguez, issued Resolution No. 19-21 on Aug. 2, 2021 allowing registered business enterprises of the ITBPM sector to continue implementing WFH arrangements without adversely affecting their fiscal incentives under CREATE until March 31, 2022.

Being a time-bound measure, the FIRB rejected the request to extend the said resolution.

Dominguez said the increasing vaccination rate of Filipinos nationwide now allows companies to undertake safe measures to let their employees physically report for work in their respective offices, especially if their workplaces are in Alert Level 1 areas.

“In fact, even the President has ordered all government agencies to adhere to the 100-percent on-site workforce in areas under Alert 1 level,” he said.

By Darwin G. Amojelar CEBU Pacific said Wednesday it incurred a P24.9-billion net loss in 2021 following the P22.2-billion loss in 2020, amid the lingering COVID-19 pandemic and the travel lockdown.

The airline unit of the Gokongwei Group said it flew 3.4 million passengers in 2021, down 32 percent from 2020, which benefitted from a high base in the pre-pandemic first quarter. Before the onset of the air travel lockdown in March 2020, Cebu Pacific flew nearly 4.4 million passengers on about 30,000 flights.

The airline generated P15.7 billion in revenues in 2021, or 30 percent below 2020. This was driven by the 50-percent decline in passenger revenue to P6.3 billion from P12.6 billion billion in 2020.

Cargo operations continued to flourish in 2021 as it posted record sales of P6.5 billion, a 20 percent increase from 2020.

Despite higher fuel prices, total operating expenses declined by 10 percent to P38.9 billion given the limited flying operations, supplemented by the various cost-cutting initiatives undertaken such as right-sizing of its network, fleet and manpower.

Cebu Pacific posted an operating loss of P23.2 billion, or 12 percent bigger than the previous year.

The airline also incurred non-core losses of P1.12 billion, on higher peso translation of its US dollar debt and mark-to-market losses from the derivative value of its convertible bonds, which were partially offset by P1.4-billion gain from aircraft sale and leaseback transactions.

Amid the losses and uncertainty brought about by the pandemic, CEB stayed resilient and ensured its longterm sustainability.

Aside from its cost-saving initiatives, it raised over $1.6 billion from various fund-raising initiatives. This not only allowed for an even longer liquidity runway, but also resulted in a stronger balance sheet with cash balance of P19.6 billion, surpassing even the pre pandemic cash levels.

PPA DIVIDENDS.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III (left) receives from Philippines Ports Authority general manager Jay Santiago a check for P4.08 billion, representing the agency’s dividend contributions from its 2021 net earnings. The PPA under the Duterte presidency has turned over to the National Treasury dividend contributions totaling a record P21.48 billion, which exceeds the sum of P20.5 billion the agency had remitted in more than two decades under the previous administrations since 1994.

SpaceDC, BOI discuss plan to construct $700-m hyperscaler hub

By Othel V. Campos HYPERSCALER innovator SpaceDC met with the Board of Investments to update discussions on the creation of the largest hyperscaler hub in the Philippines.

The $700-million MNL1 Data Center project is a critical data center infrastructure that will spur economic activities including job opportunities to hundreds of Filipinos, said Trade Secretary and BOI chairman Ramon Lopez in a meeting with SpaceDC officials.

SpaceDC chief executive Darren Hawkins and chief investment officer Joshua Robinson met with the BOI on Feb. 28 and agreed on possible economic benefits for the Philippine economy.

Prior to the courtesy call, the BOI committed to link SpaceDC with relevant government agencies for documentary requirements, permits and licenses.

“The BOI has been proactive from the start by reaching out to us and offering BOI’s assistance and support to the project. In just a short period of time they have introduced us to key officials at both the national and the local level. They have provided guidance on what incentive programs we are eligible of. The information and introductions from BOI is already generating value for SpaceDC,” said Hawkins.

SpaceDC, a data center provider, is investing over $700 million in its planned 72-megawatt hyperscale data center in Cainta, Rizal, which will run on renewable energy.

The project is expected to commence by the end of 2022 and plans to expand footprint by 2023.

IN BRIEF Synergy Grid declares P0.22 cash dividend

P&G CENTER. After 87 years in the country, Procter and Gamble Philippines inaugurates its Cebu distribution center—the company’s first major supply chain expansion outside Luzon. The three-hectare facility is strategically located in Tayud, Consolacion, part of the rapidly growing Metro Cebu. P&G executives, Consolacion Mayor Joannes Alegado (third from left) and Vice Mayor Teresa Alegado (left) mark the historic milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

BSP may recast $11-b investment target as new developments arise

By Julito G. Rada THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas may revise the $11-billion forecast for net foreign direct investments by the middle of this year, taking into account various factors such as the results of the incoming elections, the program of the next government and the external developments, Governor Benjamin Diokno said Wednesday.

The BSP predicted that FDI net inflows would reach $11 billion in 2022 and grow further to $11.8 billion in 2023, up from the record level of $10.5 billion in 2021. “[We] will closely monitor the developments in the light of heightened uncertainty due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and its implications on global growth and inflation,” Diokno said in a text message.

Diokno said the outcome of the May 9 national and local elections, the composition of the Cabinet of the winning candidate, “and the program of government of the incoming president would determine to a large extent FDIs into the country.”

“In other words, [we] will probably revisit our FDI forecast after June 30,” Diokno said.

Diokno said on Tuesday the amendments to the Public Service Act, together with other vital economic reforms implemented by the government, would likely boost the “soaring” inflow of foreign direct investments in the country.

He credited the efforts of the executive and legislative departments that “didn’t sit idly by and wait for the spread of the coronavirus to recede.”

“At the height of the pandemic, the President and Congress worked hand in hand to pass some game-changing legislation: the amendments to the Retail Trade Act, the Foreign Investment Act, and the Public Service Act. All these will further boost the soaring FDIs into the Philippines,” Diokno said.

President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law the bill amending the 85-year old Public Service Act. He also signed the amended Retail Trade Liberalization Act and the amended Foreign Investment Act.

Villar’s renewable firm investing P40b in 1,000-MW plants

By Alena Mae S. Flores PAVI Green Renewable Energy Inc. of the Villar Group plans to put up 1,000 megawatts of renewable energy projects in the medium term with investments of about P40 billion as it aims to become one of the leaders in the fast-growing clean energy industry.

Robert Marlon Pereja, chief operating officer of PAVI, said the company was open to partnerships to bring their projects to fruition.

“We are looking at 1,000 MW of installed capacity in the next three to five years. The investment will be around P40 billion and it will be a combination of partnerships and fully-owned projects,” Pereja said.

“We intend to be at the forefront of the renewable energy industry in the years to come. We’re also looking at expanding our green portfolio in the coming years as we also seek more opportunities in wind and hydropower,” he said.

“We are here to stay to ensure that our built assets will serve their purpose to supply clean energy to communities today and for future generations,” said Pereja.

The company expects to complete the 20-MW Orion Bataan solar project by the end of 2022, the output of which will be supplied to retail electricity supply company Kratos RES. PAVI is also putting up a 36-MW solar project in San Vicente, Camarines Norte and a 50-MW solar facility in Naga, Camarines Sur which are expected to be completed next year.

Aside from solar, PAVI is also eyeing opportunities in hydro and wind projects.

“True to our name, we are not just a solar company but a renewable energy company. At this point, we are already looking at some opportunities in hydro and wind power,” said Pereja.

SYNERGY Grid and Development Philippines Inc., the publicly-listed holding company of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, declared a quarterly cash dividend at P0.22 per share for a total of P1.158 billion to be paid out next month.

The cash dividend is 10 percent higher than the P0.20 per share dividend previously distributed and paid out on Jan. 10, SGP said.

The SGP board approved on Wednesday the P0.22 cash dividend, payable on April 26 to stockholders of record as of April 6.

“The distribution of dividends continues SGP’s commitment to its partner investors.

Investments in SGP will contribute to the development of the nation’s sole transmission network operated and maintained by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines,” said SGP chairman Henry Sy Jr. “NGCP has made substantial achievements in terms of improving the country’s power transmission grid,” said vice chairman Robert Coyiuto Jr. Alena Mae S. Flores

AllDay Supermarket’s income grows by 80% ALLDAY Supermarket said Wednesday it posted a net income of P394.9 million in 2021, up 80 percent from a year ago on the back of a double-digit growth in sales.

AllDay said in a disclosure to the stock exchange sales went up by 19 percent in 2021 to P9.46 billion from P7.93 billion in 2020, as it continues to offer modern grocery store experience to the growing midpremium segment of the market.

“AllDay’s remarkable performance for 2021 is a continued validation of our value proposition, and bodes well for the company’s long-term prospects,” said AllDay chairman Manuel Villar Jr. “AllDay’s distinct in-store experience, coupled with an increasingly efficient commerce model, has proved to truly resonate with our growing customer base of Filipinos who show an increasing preference for differentiated and experience-driven retail,” he said.

Villar said AllDay will continue to focus on growing the business towards its goal to have 100 stores by 2026. As of end January, Allday had 35 stores across the country.

Jenniffer B. Austria

Private equities eye Asticom investment THE Asticom Group of Companies, a shared services provider under the Globe Group, said Wednesday it is in talks with possible investors ahead of its target initial public offering within the next five years.

“A number of private equities actually approached us in the past few months and have raised the interest in potentially having that strategic partnership. We are in the process of talking to them,” said Asticom president and chief executive Mharicar Castillo-Reyes.

“It may happen prior to conducting an IPO,” Reyes said in a virtual briefing.

Reyes said undertaking an IPO is part of the company’s five-year plan to continue growing its portfolio of services. The company hopes to generate more than 15,000 jobs for Filipinos through its portfolio of businesses as it strengthens its standing as a leading shared services company.

Asticom, which marked a milestone in 2021 after hitting the P2-billion revenue mark after six years of operations, aims to support more small-and-medium enterprises and startups in the country.

Darwin G. Amojelar

Sports

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Randy M. Caluag, Assistant Editor THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

C1

Harris lifts Hotshots past Bolts in Game 1

Meralco’s Tony Bishop attacks Magnolia’s interior defense in a PBA Governors’ Cup game at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday. The Bolts, however, lost their semifinal opener, 80-94, to the Hotshots.

Converge takes over Alaska Aces’ franchise Dennis Anthony Uy, Converge co-founder and Chief Executive Officer

By Randy Caluag

L

EADING internet service provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. has officially become the newest member of the Philippine Basketball Association after completing the acquisition of the Alaska Aces franchise.

A month after Alaska Milk Corporation announced its intention to bow out of Asia’s first professional basketball league, the Aces reached an agreement with the internet solutions company.

The PBA office approved the transfer of the Alaska franchise to Converge on March 22, making Converge an official member of the PBA family.

In a statement, AMC chairman Wilfred Uytengsu was satisfied with with the smooth transfer of the franchise and “expressed gratitude for the value placed on

PATAFA eyes legal remedies

By Peter Atencio SEVERAL national sports associations will most likely oppose the move of the Philippine Olympic Committee Executive Board to suspend the national sports association of athletics from its membership.

Officials of the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association said they have secured the support of at least five NSAs after their federation was sanctioned by the executive board.

The sanctions from the execom were handed down, while the PATAFA’s process of mediation was still ongoing with world-ranked pole vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena.

“We will seek all legal remedies. We will go by the law. We will consult with the International Olympic Committee, World Athletics, the regional directors and a number of a NSAs,” said PATAFA president Philip Ella Juico on Zoom Wednesday.

Juico discussed PATAFA’s position after the POC included Obiena in the list of entries by name of athletes expected to participate in the Vietnam 31st Southeast Asian Games in May. The PATAFA does not have Obiena in its national roster for the biennial meet.

The POC executive board voted to suspend the PATAFA for 90 days for allegedly failing to serve its purpose as an NSA. It will take effect once ratified by the POC General Assembly during its regular meeting on March 30.

“We have expressed our disagreement on the actions of the POC. And our colleagues from NSAs have also articulated their opposition,” added Juico.

Approval of the 90-day sanction will grant the POC authority over the national athletics’ team to the SEA Games, and Obiena will get a chance see action in Vietnam.

the Alaska Aces team.”

“We are pleased that the new owners of our storied franchise are industry leaders, and are grateful to Mr. Dennis Anthony Uy (Converge co-founder and Chief Executive Officer) for ensuring that the Alaska Aces team will get to continue in this new direction under his stewardship. We have a great staff and a competitive team, and with this development, we are assured that they will continue to be given the opportunity to shine in the PBA. We wish Converge all the best to continue our winning tradition,”

Uytengsu said.

Uy thanked Uytengsu, the PBA Board of Governors, chairman Ricky Vargas, and PBA commissioner Willie Marcial for supporting Converge in acquiring the storied Aces franchise.

“Converge is extremely proud to be associated with the PBA, a pillar and institution in Philippine sports with a long and storied history. We are excited to commence our journey in building a track record and legacy of competitiveness, innovation, character, discipline, devotion, and sportsmanship worthy of the support and respect of PBA fans,” said Uy. He assured that Converge will continue to honor the contracts of players even until after the current season, while the current coaching and medical staff may be considered for re-hiring after a performance evaluation.

The Aces had 35 seasons in the league, winning 14 titles and a grand slam in 1996 to become the second-winningest franchise in PBA history. The Aces were last seen on March 19, losing to NLEX Warriors in the battle for a Final Four seat, 96-80.

Aside from the amount paid to Alaska for the sale of the team, business news website Bilyonaryo.com said that “the PBA has asked Converge to submit a P100 million bond to guarantee its membership for five years; deposit P7 million as equity; and pay P7 million transfer fee.”

It was more than just a business decision for Uy, though.

MIKE Harris struck with 26 points for the Magnolia Hotshots as they turned back the Meralco Bolts, 94-80, at the start of their the best-offive semifinals series of the 46th Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Harris fired seven points for the Hotshots in the third period, as he and Jio Jalalon turned the table on the Bolts.

This allowed the Hotshots to take an eight-point, 6456, spread when the quarter ended.

Calvin Abueva banged in eight of 12 points in the final canto as he joined hands with Harris and Lee in putting the Hotshots ahead by 10, 82-72, in the final 4:16.

The Bolts, who led at halftime, 43-35, got 16 gamehigh points from Chris Banchero.

Jalalon knocked in nine of his 15-point output in the third to help lift the Hotshots to an eight-point, 64-56 spread.

Harris also had 16 rebounds to go along with four assists and a steal.

Jalalon, meanwhile, led the locals with 15 markers, six boards, and six dimes while Paul Lee and Calvin Abueva added 13 and 12 points, respectively.

The Hotshots started out poorly and trailed by 17 points early in the second quarter but came alive in the third where they held a 6456 lead going into the final canto. Peter Atencio

Tabuena fights back, leads by a stroke TARLAC—Miguel Tabuena salvaged a 71 in a virtual reprise of his first-round act and took his familiar role as Philippine Golf Tour leader halfway through the ICTSI Luisita Championship here.

Tabuena overcame another wobbly start at the tight Luisita layout with a strong rebound in sweltering heat, birdying two of the last five holes at the front to save a 34-37 and seize control of the field that had started to get back into the groove two rounds into the circuit following a year-long hiatus.

“I got off to a really bad start again. At one point, I was 3-over already but I managed to fight back and shoot one-under,” said Tabuena, whose four-under 140 total netted him a one-stroke lead over erstwhile frontrunner Michael Bibat and a steady Nilo Salahog, who matched 141 outputs after a 73 and 70, respectively.

With Marvin Dumandan fighting back with a 69 to move to fourth at 142, and the fancied pair of Tony Lascuña and Clyde Mondilla assembling identical 143s after a 69 and 71, respectively, for joint fifth, the P2 million kickoff leg of this year’s PGT put up by ICTSI could be heading to a frenetic finish Friday.

And back in the title hunt is Tabuena, who bucked a two-over card after three holes to shoot

Miguel Tabuena hits a bailout shot on No. 1.

a 69 Wednesday and reeled back again on early backside mishaps yesterday— a bogey on No. 10 and a double bogey on the 14th. But like in the first round, the three-time winner here, including the Philippine Open in 2015, recouped with birdies on Nos. 15 and 18 then broke a run of pars at the front with birdies on Nos. 4 and 8.

“The game is not where it’s supposed to be, very rusty. But I guess everyone here is not in their A-game because we haven’t been playing,” said Tabuena. “Hopefully my game begins to get better and better.”

He also stressed the need to re-energize given the tough conditions in the onset of summer.

“Just want to stay hydrated and make sure I’ll have enough energy for the next two days,” he said.

But at least five players of varying skills stayed within striking distance of the new leader, including Bibat, who survived a wild frontside ride but caved in when the going got tougher and hotter in the last nine holes.

Leader by one over Tabuena with an opening 69, Bibat birdied two of the last three holes at the front to save a 35 in a topsy-turvy start marred by two bogeys and a double bogey against three other birdies as he held sway with four-under overall total.

Teener Malixi storms to 2-shot lead

Rianne Malixi produces second straight 71

TARLAC—Rianne Malixi continued to amaze the pro field with her brand of play rarely seen in a 14-year-old amateur, producing a second straight 71 against two fancied players to storm ahead by two in the ICTSI Luisita Ladies Championship here yesterday.

She anchored her second day surge on superb putting, draining birdies from long range, including on Nos. 6 and 12 from 20 feet and on the difficult par-3 17th from around 35 feet to go two-under in a roller-coaster round that featured four other birdies against three bogeys.

Though she holed out with a bogey on the par-4 18th, Malixi’s 3635 round proved enough to break her off from erstwhile joint secondrunning Princess Superal and lift

her past first day leader Chanelle Avaricio with a 142 aggregate.

“I played well but it could’ve been better,” said Malixi, who moved 18 holes away from picking up from where she left off at the close of the 2021 Ladies PGT at Midlands. “I made a lot of putts, but short gamewise, it wasn’t that good compared to my first round.”

Superal played it cool and steady in tough conditions and virtually watched Malixi flash her brilliance on the greens where she groped for her touch all day. But a second straight bogey on the 17th led to a 73 and the multi-titled campaigner stayed at second but now two shots off the new leader with a 144.

“I struggled with my putting,” rued Superal, who flubbed birdie chances inside 6 feet on Nos. 5 and

6 and missed a couple of opportunities at the back. “I need to make more putts and be more consistent tomorrow (today).

Avaricio, who got past Malixi and Superal with a fiery frontside charge to spike her opening 70, held sway with a 35 start but the Riviera-Couples leg champion last year blew it all in a bizarre backside collapse, limping with a 41 for a 76 that dropped her to third at 146.

She birdied the last hole but it hardly made up for her four bogeys and a double bogey on No. 15 in the first eight holes, finding herself trailing by four instead heading to the final 18 holes of the P750,000 championship.

“I had a hard time reading my lines of putt at the back,” said Ava-

ricio. “Tomorrow (today), I need to put my ball at the right place, especially at the backnine.”

Chihiro Ikeda also fumbled with a 75 for a 149, Riviera-Langer stage titlist Daniella Uy groped for a 79 after a 72 to tumble to joint fifth at 151 with Pamela Mariano, who bounced back with a 74 after a 77, while reigning LPGT Order of Merit winner Harmie Constantino also rebounded from a 79 with a 73 but remained too far behind at 152 for joint eighth with Korean jane Jeong, who matched Malixi’s oneunder card.

Like her pro rivals, Malixi underscored the need to stay positive in the last 18 holes and at the same time stay away from troubles on a course that punishes even the slightest of mistakes.

C2

Sports

THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

Barty: I have nothing more to give S YDNEY—Multi-talented Ashleigh Barty excels at so many sports that she has played professional cricket and even won a golf tournament, but it was in tennis where she rose to become the best in the world.

In January she took her place among the giants of Australian sport by winning her home Grand Slam.

It was fitting that Chris O’Neil, the last home-grown player to win the Australian Open, in 1978, was in the stadium to witness Barty ending a 44-year hoodoo and thrilling a nation glued to their televisions.

Less than two months later, Barty on Wednesday announced her shock retirement from tennis aged just 25.

She leaves the sport having been world number one for more than two years and with three Grand Slam singles titles, having also won the French Open in 2019 and Wimbledon last year.

It is unclear what she will do next, but

it would be no surprise if Barty ended up becoming a champion in another sport, because few athletes can boast such a varied sporting CV as the downto-earth Barty.

Tennis to cricket Widely respected as one of the nicest players in women’s tennis, Barty began playing the sport as a child in the Queensland state capital Brisbane.

But it was a trip to the Australian Open for a training camp at the age of about 12 that proved to be the spark that drove her to the summit of the sport.

“To see how professional it was and to see everyone going about their business was really eye-opening. My first taste of it was in the juniors and I loved it,” she said at the Australian

Open in January.

“That kind of lit the flame.”

Barty went on to win the junior Wimbledon title as a 15-year-old in 2011.

But the expectations that came with success took their toll and she made a surprise decision three years later to ditch tennis for cricket, signing for Brisbane Heat in the inaugural Women’s Big Bash League.

“In short, I think I needed just to find myself,” said Barty who, while never shrinking in the limelight, hardly appeared to revel in it.

She said that while cricket gave her “a different perspective about sport”, the lure of tennis was never far away. She returned after a season out.

Barty broke through for her maiden Grand Slam triumph at the French Open in 2019, became Australia’s first women’s world number one since Evonne Goolagong Cawley and finally won a cherished Wimbledon crown last year.

So dominant has she been that she ended 2021 as the top-ranked player for

a third consecutive year, joining Steffi Graf, Martina Navratilova, Serena Williams and Chris Evert as the only women to achieve the feat.

Barty should have returned to Paris to defend her Roland Garros title in 2020, but she pulled out over coronavirus fears and picked up her golf clubs instead.

And on a course designed by Greg Norman near Brisbane, she won the Brookwater Golf Club women’s title with a commanding victory.

“Is there anything you can’t do?” asked one social media user at the time.

Barty and long-time partner Garry Kissick got engaged in November, sparking a frenzy of congratulations from fellow tennis stars.

She hardly played any competitive tennis in the second half of last year because of the pandemic.

Dream fulfilled Despite that long layoff Barty was imperious in winning the Australian Open.

There was an air of inevitability about her title victory as she tore through the field before beating American Danielle Collins in the final in straight sets.

That was followed by a wonderful moment for Barty as she received the winner’s Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup from seven-time Grand Slam champion and fellow indigenous Australian Evonne Goolagong-Cawley, who won the last of her four Australian Opens in 1977.

Barty said on Wednesday that she had nothing more to give.

In a tearful social media video message with her close friend and former doubles partner Casey Dellacqua, Barty said she was “so ready” to call it quits after achieving her life-time ambition to win Wimbledon.

“Success for me is knowing that I’ve given absolutely everything, everything I can. I’m fulfilled, I’m happy and I know how much work it takes to bring the best out of yourself,” Barty said. AFP

Tennis world pays tribute to retiring Aussie star SYDNEY—World number one Ashleigh Barty’s surprise retirement from tennis was met with shock and an outpouring of well wishes from current and former greats Wednesday.

The three-times Grand Slam champion shared a video on social media in which she said she would “step away and chase other dreams”.

Karolina Pliskova, who Barty defeated in the final to win Wimbledon last year, congratulated the Australian for an “incredible career”.

“It was a privilege to share a court with you,” tweeted the Czech former world number one. “You will be missed.”

Britain’s three-time Grand Slam champion and former number one Andy Murray said

on Twitter: “Happy for @ashbarty. Gutted for tennis. What a player” Romania’s Simona Halep addressed Barty directly: “Ash, what can I say, you know I have tears right? My friend, I will miss you on tour. You were different, and special, and we shared some amazing moments.”

The former world number one speculated what may be next for Barty: “Grand Slam champion in golf?!”

American Andy Roddick offered a succinct reaction, retweeting the announcement with a simple “wow”.

The World Tennis Association thanked Barty “for the indelible mark you’ve left on-court, off-court and in our hearts”. AFP

Australia’s Ashleigh Barty poses with the trophy after her women’s singles final match victory against Danielle Collins of the US in the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne.

Three-time Grand Slam winner and world no. 1 stunned the tennis world by announcing her early retirement from the sport at the age of just 25. AFP

Eagles take on Maroons in UAAP opener

By Peter Atencio TRAINING under a bubble has brought many players of participating teams together and got them closer for a short period of time. But this may not necessarily bring the best out of each team.

Coach Tab Baldwin said this as the defending champion Ateneo Blue Eagles get ready for action when Season 84 of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines 84 Men’s Basketball Tournament fires off this Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

“We have a lot of time together offcourt. This is good for the mental side of the players. But even though we’re in a bubble, it has been a brief, short period of time for us to get ready and it will reflect on the performances of the teams,” said Baldwin following Wednesday’s press conference at the TV5 Studios in Mandaluyong.

The Blue Eagles, who are seeking a four-peat, are among the favorites this season, next to the University of the

Games Saturday (Mall of Asia Arena) 10 a.m. – FEU vs UST 1 p.m. – AdU vs NU 4 p.m. – Ateneo vs UP 7 p.m. – DLSU vs UE Philippines Fighting Maroons, which will have multi-titled junior coach Goldwin Monteverde calling the shots.

And the Blue Eagles will be a different team when they go up against the Fighting Maroons at 4 p.m.

Veterans like Thirdy Ravena, Isaac Go, William Navarro, Adrian Wong and Nieto twins Mike and Matt are gone.

This time, five younger players form the core of the team, namely Gian Mamuyac, Tyler Tio, Angelo Kouame, SJ Belangel and Sean Dave Ildefonso will be picking up on the squad’s leadership roles.

The Fighting Maroons will now have Noah Webb as their skipper. An-

other vet, Ricci Rivero, will be backed up high school stars Carl Tamayo and Terrence Fortea.

They will also have Zav Lucero, veteran guard CJ Cansino and Senegalese tower Malick Diouf as among the players to watch.

This will make up for the absence of stars like Kobe Paras, Bright Akhuetie, Jun Manzo and Gomez de Liaño brothers Javi and Juan, who have all graduated. Former coach Bo Perasol is now program director.

Far Eastern University meets UST in the 10 a.m. opener of a four-game bill, to be held under a bubble, with no audience allowed in the venue.

The Adamson Falcons will clash with the National University Bulldogs at 1 p.m., while the La Salle Green Archers take on the University of the East Warriors at 7 p.m.

The games will have a live coverage via One Sports (free-to-air), in high definition on the UAAP Varsity Channel (pay TV) and Cignal Play (OTT streaming).

PSC resumes sports science lectures for PH coaches LOCAL coaches from various provinces will receive sports scientific lectures as the Philippine Sports Commission’s National Sports Coaching Certification Course resumes Thursday.

Over 100 coaches from all over the country are expected to join the Level 2 of online lectures for Badminton and Lawn Tennis via Zoom, from March 24 to 26, led by the agency’s Philippine Sports Institute.

“We want to continue building on the momentum we had last year with these coaches and elevate their learning and mastery of coaching in their specific sport,” said PSI Grassroots Program Head Abby Rivera.

This is the third leg of the NSCCC which started from its f irst course on Sport-Specif ic Training for Table Tennis Level 1 and Sports Science Lectures Level

2 last Febr uar y 24 to 26 and March 17 to 19, respectively with almost 200 coaches attending.

Rivera added that, “more than half of the attendees also signed up for the optional examination where they are entitled to receive certif icates.”

After the three courses, the PSI will continue another set of topics and lectures for Sports Science Level 1 until Apr 28, to be led by the expertise of Prof. Henry Daut for Sports Management, UP CHK Dean Francis Carlos Diaz for Training Program Design & Development, Karen Leslie Pineda, Ashly Villa and Jane Serapion for Sports Nutrition, Arsenio Lantin, MD and Victor Francis Gaddi, MD for Sports Sports Injury & Rehabilitation, Mary Jane Santos for Sports Massage, and Marc Donyell Bayang for Strength & Conditioning.

Marikina dominates BPBL elims, faces Makati in Final 4 Team Marikina’s Joshua Edrozo gets past Makati Pembo’s Benjie Lana (center) and Richmond Divina to score on an unmolested drive during their BPBL elims match.

TEAM Marikina kept flaunting top form in the Batang Pilipino Basketball League, closing out with three victories over the weekend to sweep the elimination round of the inaugural 18-and-under tournament at the Palaruang Batang Lambak in Sta. Elena, Marikina City.

The hosts swept their first four games in the first weekend play of the pre-season event then crushed Pricerba MKT, 125-43, and QC-North RPBC, 84-63, and scored a walkover win over QC-South RPBC in afternoon play last Saturday to cap its domination of the eight-team tournament.

As top seed, Marikina will

take on No. 4 Makati Pembo Pecas in the crossover semifinals slated this weekend while No. 2 Batang Cainta and third ranked Mandaluyong Megaworks will dispute the other finals berth in the community-based cage league put up by the BPBL, headed by league commissioner Ron Camara, to discover and develop talents from various sectors of community, including the the out-of-school youth.

Makati Pembo bucked its final game loss to Batang Cainta, 7587, to claim the last Final Four berth with a 3-4 slate, nipping QC-North RPBC and QC-South RPBC in the tiebreak.

Batang Cainta edged Man-

daluyong, 85-82, repulsed QCSouth RPBC, 73-67, then smothered Pricerba-MKT, 82-48, to clinch No. 2 with a 6-1 card while Mandaluyong bounced back from its loss to Batang Cainta with a 79-68 victory over Pasig SA3 DW and a 79-65 win over Pricerba MKT to finish third at 5-2.

The semis winners will dispute the crown and the bragging rights as the BPBL preseason champion on Saturday with the losers clashing for third place honors.

For details, visit the league’s FB page @teamBPBL, IG and website www.batangpilipinobasketball.ph.

Entertainment

Nickie Wang,, Editor Patricia Taculao, Editorial Assistant E-mail: lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

C3

All systems go for Ogie, Paulo, Janine concert in US RUMORED couple Paulo Avelino and Janine Gutierrez are joining OPM hitmaker Ogie Alcasid in a concert tour titled OA sa Love in the USA. The trio will be heading to the Alex Theatre in Glendale California (March 26), Sycuan Casino Resort & Spa in San Diego, California (April 2), and Morongo Casino Resort & Spa in Cabazon, California (April 3).

The group is expected to leave for Los Angeles on

(From left) Janine Gutierrez, Paulo Avelino, and Ogie Alcasid

participation in the OA concert series.

“I’m super excited kasi first time kong magi-guest sa isang concert out of the country. First time ko rin nagka-working visa for the US so ang dami kong firsts for this trip. I’m just happy that after two years meron uling audience na makakaharap,” said Janine.

“Apart from doing the show, I’m excited to visit Star Wars Galaxy. Gusto ko s’yang makita. Parang gusto rin pumunta ni Kuya Ogie sa Star Wars Galaxy,” shared Paulo who added that aside from sightseeing, the concert tour will serve as their avenue to reconnect with fans and their friends in the US.

Lovi Poe explores creative side

Beyonce, Billie Eilish to perform nominated songs at Oscars MUSIC superstars Beyonce and Billie Eilish will perform during Sunday’s Oscars, but outspoken vaccine skeptic Van Morrison is skipping Hollywood’s biggest night, organizers said Tuesday.

All three performers are nominated for best song at the 94th Academy Awards — along with Lin-Manuel Miranda and Diane Warren, whose songs will also be performed on the broadcast.

Pop superstar Beyonce’s Oscarnominated ballad “Be Alive” was penned for tennis biopic King Richard, which stars Will Smith as the father of tennis greats Serena and Venus Williams.

Hollywood trade publication Variety reported that Beyonce will perform live from the tennis courts in Compton where the sisters played as children. Organizers did not respond to AFP request for comment.

Eilish and her brother Finneas will perform “No Time To Die” from the recent James Bond movie.

But while Morrison, who wrote “Down to Joy” for Kenneth Branagh’s blackand-white childhood drama Belfast, was invited to perform at the star-studded gala, he “will not attend the Oscars due to his tour schedule,” organizers said.

The singer, known as “Van the Man” to his fans, is due to tour England in late March, before arriving in the US next month for further dates.

Morrison’s high-profile criticism of pandemic restrictions — including three anti-lockdown “protest songs” — and opposition to vaccine mandates had led to questions about whether he would be welcomed at the Oscars.

The ceremony taking place Sunday in Hollywood requires nominees, guests, and press to be vaccinated, although performers and presenters are reportedly able to attend without proof of vaccine if they undergo rigorous testing.

Miranda’s “Dos Oruguitas” from Disney animated movie Encanto will be performed by Sebastian Yatra.

Warren’s song “Somehow You Do” from Four Good Days — which will be performed

by Reba McEntire — is her 13th Oscar nomination, but she has never won.

Also performing at the Oscars will be an “all-star band” including Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker, and DJ D-Nice.

AFP

March 24.

“It’s been two years na tayong lahat ay nasa bahay lang and, of course, working under very very strict health protocols. But as far as the live entertainment is concerned, ngayon lang talaga nagsisimula for us,” Alcasid said in a virtual press conference.

“So after two years, we’ll finally perform live for our friends in America and we can already feel their anticipation,” the 52-yearold OPM legend added.

It’s the first time Janine and Paulo will appear together in a concert tour overseas, thus the couple couldn’t hide their excitement when asked about their

in new film ‘Seasons’

A

CTRESS Lovi Poe was blooming in pink and was a vision of happiness and contentment when she entered the room at Club Filipino where Regal Entertainment’s Roselle Monteverde, her manager Leo Dominguez, and some select members of the entertainment press were waiting for her to arrive.

She signed a fresh contract with Regal, the film company that she considers her first home.

“You will receive a thousand ‘nos,’ but it’s always the first ‘yes’ that matters. Regal paved the way for me in show business and until now, I just feel the love from them. Am grateful to be part of this family,” Lovi said of her ties with the film Lovi Poe (right) with Piolo Pascual outfit.

As she signs a new movie contract with Regal, Lovi felt like it was going back to her roots.

It was Mother Lily Monteverde and her daughter Roselle who were among the very first who believed in Lovi’s potential to become a star. It was also Lovi Poe (right) with Regal with Regal that Entertainment ‘s Roselle Lovi was able Monteverde to hone her dramatic talent. She lists Jerrold Tarog’s Aswang, Cris Martinez’s adaptation of Temptation Island, Jun Lana’s My Neighbor’s Wife, and her team up with

Lovi Poe

Derek Ramsay in The Escort and with Vhong Navarro in Woke up like this as some of her memorable films.

“I’m grateful to Mother Lily and to Ms. Roselle for their trust and confidence in me, and another thing that I am thankful for is that they help me grow as an artist,” Lovi stated adding that as a sign of Regal’s unparalleled support to her career, the film outfit has developed her story concept into a full-length movie.

The forthcoming project is entitled Seasons, which marks her first team-up with actor Carlo Aquino. Shot entirely in Ilocos and directed by Easy Ferrer, Lovi is equally excited about the plans of the film being turned into a limited series, too.

“It was from my idea, and I worked with Ms. Roselle closely to develop it. Regal is very open to collaborating with me, as Seasons is my very first story that was made into a film,” she said.

“When our director sent me the OBB (opening billboard) and I saw there ‘Concept by Lovi Poe,’ I felt kilig.

I think it’s the start, I’ve always dreamed of writing my own script but I’m really scared to do it. I basically have a notebook of my concepts, scenes of movies that I wanted to do and I’m just waiting for that push that Regal did. So, I guess there’s more to come,” she added.

Since transferring networks in 2021, the actress has become occupied with numerous projects including an international film with Hollywood actor Alex Pettyfer, The Chelsea Cowboy, which started shooting late last year, and a television project with Piolo Pascual, the forthcoming series, Flower of Evil, an adaptation of a Korean drama.

‘Seasons’ marks Lovi’s “There’s just so much growth. It’s (right) first time working been a crazy ride for me because I with Carlo Aquino have been making decisions that make me push myself even more, make me learn. Stepping out of my conform zone is a big thing and transition is not an easy process, but I guess I would like to give myself a pat on the back for making myself happy where I am at right now,” she ended.

GMA Network CEO Felipe Gozon receives honorary doctorate degree

Beyonce (left) and Billie Eilish

GMA Network Chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe L. Gozon (center) with his immediatefamily and WUP President Judge Benjamin D. Turgano (third from left)

GMA Network Chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe L. Gozon received an honorary degree of Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa) from the Wesleyan University Philippines (WUP).

Gozon was joined by Teresa Gozon and his family during the academic convocation held on March

18 at the Central United Methodist Church in Manila. The conferment rites were led by WUP President Judge Benjamin D. Turgano along with OIC-Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. John Mark F. Bondoc, Board of Trustees Secretary Atty. Gideon C. Salatan, Legal

Education Board Chairperson Atty.

Marie Melanie B. Trinidad, and Board of Trustees Member Renato G. Simbulan.

“I am deeply humbled by the degree of Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa you have conferred on me.

This recognition speaks of the many things that I stand for, the things that give my life meaning, and the values I live by. For all of that, I am most grateful, especially to our Lord,” said Gozon in his speech.

A noted legal scholar, Gozon graduated in the top ten of UP Law Class of 1962 and placed 13th in the 1962 Bar Examinations. He pursued graduate studies at Yale University

in New Haven, Connecticut, USA and finished the degree of Master of Laws in 1965. He had opportunities to pursue a lucrative law practice in the United States but he chose to return and serve in his own country, the Philippines.

His visionary leadership provided the framework for the rise of GMA Network to become the Number 1 TV network in the country.

Gozon joins former president Fidel V. Ramos, Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno, Bishop Emerito P. Nacpil, and other accomplished persons in government, academe, religion, and business as WUP’s honorary degree recipients.

BINI, SB19’s collab for ‘PBB Teens’ trends worldwide POWERHOUSE P-pop groups BINI and SB19 joined forces to bring a new flavor for their first-ever collaboration for “Kabataang Pinoy,” the theme song for PBB Kumunity Season 10 Teen Edition.

The music video, which was released on March 21, took social media by storm as “KabataangPinoyMV OutNow” rose to the trending topics on Twitter worldwide, while #SBINI19_ KabataangPinoyMV made the trending list in the Philippines.

The documentary-style music video

took fans behind-the-scenes of the two groups’ whole-day rehearsals for their live PBB opening night performance, which currently has over 199,900 views on YouTube.

The music and lyric videos have already reached a combined total of over 238,600 views on YouTube in less than a week. The inspiring pop-rock track, which has a timely message that encourages the Filipino youth to be brave and independent individuals, has also made it to Spotify Philippines’ New Music Friday playlist.

Meanwhile, tickets to BINI and its brother group BGYO’s docufilm, Dubai Adventures, are still up for grabs on KTX.ph. VIP tickets are priced at P1,000, which include the streaming of the live premiere on April 1, red carpet access, and access to the replays on April 2 and 3, while general admission tickets are priced at P399.To book tickets for the BINI & BGYO Dubai Adventures visit www.ktx.ph. For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok or visit www.absBINI and SB19 join forces to create the theme song for ‘PBB Kumunity Season 10 Teen Edition’ cbn.com/newsroom.

C4

THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

I

’M one of those who are prone to having a sore throat from time to time. A change in the weather or environment, poor diet, and general neglect of health, which can happen even to the best of us — can weaken our immunity against cold or flu virus. Most sore throats are caused by viruses, usually the cold or flu virus.

There are more serious causes of sore throat that one should not ignore. These include tonsillitis, mononucleosis (mono), and strep throat. Sore throats may also be caused by smoking and mouth breathing while asleep. One may also get a sore throat because of pollution and allergies to pets, pollens, and molds. In my case, I’ve had a history of tonsillitis. Fortunately, the instances when I’ve had a sore throat weren’t serious enough that I’d need surgery. My doctor would give me a list of what not to eat or drink, prescribe Hexeditine oral gargle, and always there’s the throat lozenge.

While the above-mentioned are the commonly known cause of sore throat, many of us are aware by now that having a sore throat may also be a symptom of the COVID-19 virus.

A current scientific research and development conducted by the Microbiology and Immunology Institute of the University o f Ljubljana in Slovenia, found that a combination of Benzydamine Hydrochlo-

Dr. Tony Leachon is an Independent Health Reform Advocate and formerly a part of the National Task Force for COVID-19

Life

Let’s talk about throat health

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

Most sore throats are a result of viruses, like the cold or flu virus

JOB WELL DONE

BY JOBA BOTANA

ride (BH) and Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC) may have a virucidal (virus killing) effect against COVID-19 that helps reduce the risk of viral transmission.

This finding was also included in the presentation of Dr. Tony Leachon, an Independent Health Reform Advocate and formerly a part of the National Task Force for COVID-19, during a recent media conference held via Zoom.

In the preliminary findings, it was revealed that based on testing in a defined and controlled laboratory environment designed to mimic the conditions of the oral cavity, all three test settings showed strong virucidal activity against SARSCoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19 infection. The throat lozenge test products in a high concentration were the fastest at destroying the virus, reducing the viral concentration by 99.99 percent in as fast as one minute. This also suggests the possibility of reducing the amount of virus in the oral cavity as well as reducing the risk of viral transmission.

So how do those ingredients work exactly to kill the virus?

“The combination of Benzydamine Hydrochloride (BH) and Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC) helps in the destruction of the viral envelope, with unclear

peplomers (of the S protein) formation, or even without peplomers and envelope, is visible under the electron microscope for virus particle samples exposed to high concentration of test products, “ Dr. Leachon explained.

“As what this study confirmed, there is an effective, strong virucidal effect of BH/CPC combination as a free active substance and as a lozenge, and CPC on SARS-CoV-2, with the possibility of reducing the amount of virus in the oral cavity and the potential to help reduce the risk of viral transmission,” said Dr. Leachon who is also a Past President of Philippine College of Physicians.

Is there any product out there today that contains both generic BH and CPC as active ingredients in a lozenge?

“Yes, there is/are. What you can do is ask the pharmacist in your local pharmacy what products contain these ingredients. You can also check the label to be sure,” he added.

The results of this study were first published by Andrej Steyer, Misa Marusic, Marko Kolenc, and Tina Triglav from the Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia, in the article “A throat lozenge with fixed combination of cetylpyridinium chloride and benzydamine hydrochloride has direct viru-

Some people are prone to sore throat and more serious cases should not be ignored cidal effect on SARS-CoV-2”, COVID, 2021;1(2):435-446 (Available from: https://doi.org/10.3390/Covid1020037) which has since been republished with permission in the Romanian Journal of Pharmaceutical Practice (Sarafoleanu C et al, 2021).

This study is yet to be peer-reviewed, however, knowing this further encourages us in our fight against the virus.

Now that the economic activities have started opening up and the restrictions have been eased out by the government as many parts of the country are

Your hub for sustainable health, beauty, and wellness options

the relationship of solid waste management and climate change, the impact of recycling on the environment, economy and community and future activities to be conducted jointly by Plastic Bank and Watsons Philippines.

Solid waste management TRUSTED health and wellness partner Lao is a strong advocate for the Watsons Philippines continues to “Do environment through proper waste Good” for the planet, the community, management. During the webinar, its customers, and employees by prehe talked about the country’s solid senting more sustainability options and waste management programs and programs that will help save the envitheir practical aspects, such as what ronment. household items can be recycled.

“Doing Good” is in Watsons DNA. Plastic Bank’s David Katz disSince working in partnership with Opcussed what social plastic can do eration Smile eight years ago up to the to help impoverished communities present, Watsons has helped transform gain access to necessities such as the lives of 2,036 children through cleft Watsons Philippines continues to ‘Do Good’ food and water. surgeries. by advocating sustainability to help save the “The partnership with Watsons is Watsons has also made available al- environment an opportunity for the world to bear most 1,200 Sustainable Choices products witness to great change, to witness and continues to add more for consumers Solid Waste Management Commission, great organizations that truly are standing so they have better and more environ- and David Katz, President and CEO of on the right side of history. It takes the bold Plastic Bank, talked about global warmment-friendly options. and the authentic to do something that Watsons stores have made a collective ing and the benefits of recycling.

The Watsons Do Good webinar, which hasn’t been done before and we know that effort to be more conscious about energy was moderated by environment advocate in partnership with Watsons, the world is consumption and this has helped reduce going to witness the change in the comenergy intensity by 17 percent from 2015. Anna Oposa of Save Philippine Seas, munities and the lives of our collectors,” tackled important topics such as how peoFor its employees, Watsons has conhe said. ducted 22 wellness seminars and counting ple can contribute to environment conserFor Sustainable Choices, to help its personnel to cope with the chal- vation thru 3Rs (Reuse, Recycle, Refill), Sa Watsons Ako lenges brought about by the “We rely on fossil fuels that pandemic. give gas, heat, and oil but they are No to plastic waste exactly what bring about global In collaboration with Plaswarming and all these extreme tic Bank, Watsons has been weather occurrences. What are able to recycle 833,000 plasthe ‘Do Good’ acts we can do? tic bottles last 2021.

One of these is to always choose For 2022, Watsons held its sustainability in our health, wellfirst “Do Good For Earth, Sa ness, and beauty products. For Watsons Ako” webinar with Sustainable Choices, Sa Watsons “Smart Waste Management Ako,” said Viki Encarnacion, Towards A Sustainable FuWatsons Philippines PR and Susture,” where two resource pertainability Director. sons shared valuable insights Watsons will make you feel on how waste management beautiful inside and out by proand recycling affects global (Clockwise) Anna Oposa of Save Philippine Seas, Viki viding sustainable products that warming and climate change. Encarnacion of WatsonsPhilippines, Commissioner Crispian are good for the community and Commissioner Crispian Lao of the National Solid Waste Management Commission, the planet. Kaya, for Sustainable Lao, Chair of the National and David Katz of Plastic Bank Choices, Sa Watsons Ako!

The holy grail for J-beauty

Hada Labo face lotions are a cult favorite among beauty experts and Asian superstars

IF you ask beauty editors, influencers, and Asian superstars, there’s a product that’s a staple in their beauty stash. Often hailed as a holy grail for transforming their skin this J-beauty cult brand has been amassing a cult following across the globe.

Hada Labo products’ main goal is to provide intense hydration and moisture to the skin, giving it a youthful, radiant mochi-like finish.

Yes, just like the popular Japanese

treat that’s known for its smooth and bouncy texture. It does so by making hyaluronic acid—that’s known for retaining water in the skin—its main active ingredient, a result of more than 100 years of product development and continuous research.

There are two Hada Labo product ranges in the country. Currently, there are two types of face lotions in the Philippines: Goku Jyun Hydrating Lotion and Shiro Jyun Premium Whitening Lotion.

The Goku Jyun Hydrating Lotion, Japan’s #1 face lotion and Hada Labo’s

now on Alert Level 1, it is still important to observe the minimum health and safety protocols in place.

Get vaccinated and then have your booster shot when it is time, observe the standard health protocols such as proper hand-washing, physical distancing and mask-wearing in public places. As an addition, Benzydamine HCl and Cetylpyridinium Cl containing throat lozenges can also help in our fight against the COVID-19 virus.

For feedback, you may email the author at joba.botana@gmail.com.

Catriona shares her secret to looking radiantly healthy FOR Miss Universe 2018 and the newest face of Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance Catriona Gray, healthy skin is one of the most important things to have, especially when you’re constantly facing the public.

“Before being a beauty queen, it was already a priority for me to achieve healthy skin, especially since I’m dealing with sensitive skin.” shares Catriona. The beauty queen is the latest addition to the brand’s roster of high profile ambassadors which includes Solenn Huessaff, Anne Curtis, Maine Mendoza, AC Bonifacio, Liza Soberano, and Bea Alonzo.

When it comes to pulling off that healthy skin look, it’s important to trust only dermatologist-recommended products to get effective yet gentle results.

The most prescribed brand by dermatologists and its newest Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance line,

Cetaphil is the perfect skincare partner for Catriona and her sensitive skin.

“It’s essential for me to follow my dermatologist’s recommendations when it comes to brightening my skin the healthy way. And with so many products in the market, it’s important to be #BrightAboutSkin and about my skincare choices. With Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance, it really helps me have that Brightness that Radiates and have the confidence to conquer whatever situation I’m in,” shares Catriona.

So, what’s the secret behind that radiant skin? Well, cat’s out of the bag as Catriona shares her easy #RadianceRoutine that she swears by. Skincare can be as easy as 1-2-3: cleanse, tone, and moisturize.

For Catriona, another secret to her radiant looks is confidence, sharing “at the end of the day, no matter if you’re all glammed up or ready to face the world au naturel, it’s the confidence within you that makes you positively radiate and stand out.”

The Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance range of products is available at the official Cetaphil Philippines stores in Lazada, Shopee, and Watsons. You may also visit SM and Mercury Drug stores nationwide.

To learn more about the new Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance and its gentle line of products that brighten skin, follow Cetaphil Philippines on Facebook and Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance on Instagram or visit www.cetaphil.com.ph.

Catriona Gray star product, is infused with four types of Hyaluronic Acid to fully hydrate skin from the surface to inner skin layers, locking moisture in. It is also formulated with Japan’s high-performance penetrating and deep moisturizing technology to get that significantly soft, smooth, and supple skin and to prepare it for enhanced absorption of other skincare products.

The Shiro Jyun Premium Whitening Lotion contains Tranexamic Acid that effectively helps fight dark spots, rebalance skin tone, and restore skin radiance. It also contains Vitamin C

and E to soothe and relieve discomfort after sun exposure. The lotion also got Hyaluronic Acid that prevents moisture loss and Nano Hyaluronic Acid that provides moisture deep down into the inner skin layers.

Hada Labo also offers face washes and creams. Both Hada Labo products lines also have their own face wash and cream selections to complete a sensible three-step routine.

Take cues from beauty experts and Asian superstars, and start transforming your skin with a Hada Labo face lotion in your vanity.