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DRAMA ON DEAF FAMILY ‘CODA’ WINS TOP OSCAR HOLLYWOOD—Deaf family drama “CODA” won best picture honors at the Oscars Sunday, the first ever triumph for a streamer, in a ceremony that was overshadowed by best actor-winner Will Smith striking comedian Chris Rock on stage for making a joke about his wife.

Seeking to reassert its relevance, the Academy Awards gala was packed with big musical performances and three wise-cracking female hosts -- but will enter the history books for the shocking SmithRock altercation, which changed the mood of the night before the final prizes were announced. “CODA,” a feel-good indie drama starring deaf actors in lead roles which had Next page

OSCAR SHOCKER. Will Smith (right) slaps host Chris Rock onstage

during the 94th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California on Sunday. Smith still took home the Best Actor trophy, while Jessica Chastain was named Best Actress and the cast of CODA gathered for its Best Picture victory. AFP

WILL SMITH STRIKES CHRIS ROCK IN VIRAL OSCARS MOMENT

ENTERTAINMENT / C3

Vote-buying: Raffles, donations Comelec also worried dead persons still on voters’ list for polls

OLDING of raffles or giving away in-kind donations can be considered vote-buying, the Commission on Elections warned Monday as the 45-day campaign period for local candidates started last week.

VOL. XXXVI • NO. 47 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 • TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2022 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

“They probably think they could get away with it. Maybe they did get away with it before the campaign period and we said fine, Peñera doctrine, but now that the local campaign period has started you can no longer cite Peñera,” Comelec Commissioner George Garcia

said. Comelec spokesman James Jimenez also expressed the agency’s concern that some deceased individuals who passed away amid the COVID-19 pandemic may still be included on the voters’ list. Next page

CBCP: No law quiets Church on poll activity NO LAW prohibits any church or religion to speak up and participate in political affairs, the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said Monday in a pastoral letter. CBCP President and Caloocan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David said the separation of church and state was created for the government to respect the right to freely exercise religion. “And any church, as a member of society, has the right and the duty to speak, especially on behalf of our underprivileged brethren. This is the primary duty of one who is serving the country,” David said. The Catholic Church will speak up and voice its sentiments, especially if it is the truth, life, and the public welfare that are at stake, he added. “The Church cannot stay silent on matters of the truth, goodness, and justice,” David said. The Catholic Church was earlier criticized by the camp of presidential candidate Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. for allegedly “meddling with politics,” accusing clergymen of

FREE MRT RIDE. Passengers flock to the turnstiles and trains of the MRT-3 line as the government offers it for free starting Monday – President Rodrigo Duterte’s birthday – until April 30,

2022. Passengers can board free of charge, regardless of origin or destination station, from the first MRT-3 train ride at 4:40 am, until the last ride at 10:10 pm. A valid stored value or beep card can be used to board the train or a single-journey ticket from the ticket booth.

Benguet farmers losing P2.5m daily with entry of smuggled carrots mittee of the Whole hearing on the rampant smuggling of agricultural FARMERS based in Trinidad, Benguet products, Agot Balanoy, public relatold the Senate Monday they are losing tions officer of the League of AssoP2.5 million daily because of the entry ciations at the La Trinidad Vegetable of smuggled carrots. Trading Areas, said since July last Appearing before the Senate Com- year, they have been complaining

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

Kerosene banners oil price hike with P9.40/l leap By Alena Mae S. Flores THE country’s oil firms raised prices by as much as P9.40 per liter effective Tuesday to reflect the movement of prices in the world oil market. The oil firms hiked the price of kerosene by P9.40 per liter, diesel by P8.65 per liter, and gasoline by P3.40 per liter. “Effective 12:01AM March 29, 2022, Caltex (CPI) will increase fuel prices of Platinum by P3.40 per liter, Silver by P3.40 per liter, diesel by P8.65 per liter and kerosene by P9.40 Next page

PRICES RISING. A gasoline attendant fills tricycles at a pump station along TM Kalaw in Manila, as oil companies were to increase prices of gasoline by P2.90 to P3.10 per liter and diesel by P8 to P8.30 on Tuesday. Norman Cruz

about smuggled vegetables from China that have hurt their sales. Balanoy estimated their orders from key markets dropped 40 percent or the equivalent of P2.5 million a day. From August to December 2021, the price of carrots showed a wide range,

from a low of P7 to a high of P95 a kilo. “Why do we have P95 kilo? We have this high price if there are no smuggled carrots. If the price is P7 it means there are a lot of smuggled carrots being sold in the market,” Balanoy said. Next page

On NPA’s 53rd anniversary today, CPP orders strike on ‘weak points’ THE Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP-CC) on Monday ordered the New People’s Army (NPA) to deploy special armed units to “strike enemy weak points” and “local tyrants” in towns and cities for its 53rd founding anniversary today. In its 20-page message to the NPA, the CPP-CC noted the “fascist criminal bosses” who are responsible for the increasing number of alleged extraju-

dicial killings and other crimes should be punished by its armed wing to give justice to the victims. “There is a public clamor for the revival of urban or rural-based units that can strike at the weak points of the enemy units and elements based in towns and cities, such as local tyrants and other bad elements and police units culpable for redtagging, abducting, torturing and killing Next page

Largest-ever ‘Balikatan’ highlights ‘deepening alliance’ of PH with US THE Philippines and the United States launched the largest-ever joint military drills on Monday, a day after the Philippine Coast Guard accused its Chinese counterpart of steering one of its ships within meters of a Filipino patrol boat near the disputed Scarborough Shoal. The war games are the last under out-

going President Rodrigo Duterte, signaling deepening defense ties as fresh tensions surface in the disputed South China Sea. Nearly 9,000 Filipino and American soldiers will take part in the 12-day training event across the main island of Next page

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TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2022

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House leaders wish Duterte well By Maricel V. Cruz and Rey E. Requejo

EADERS of the House of Representatives led by Majority Leader Martin Romualdez expressed best wishes and hope for the good health and well-being of President Rodrigo Duterte, who turned 77 on Monday.

also wish to express the appreciation of a grateful nation for all the personal sacrifices that the President has made to serve his fellow countrymen.” “Rest assured, Mr. President, that your services to the country will be remembered in generations to come,” Romualdez of Leyte’s first district and president of Lakas Christian Muslim Democrats said in his statement.” He added: “We also pray to the Lord Almighty that He grant President Duterte more years of good health, peace and joy both in his public and private life.” “May God continue to guide him as he seeks ways to improve the living condition of our people and provide a safe community for every Filipino family.” Romualdez, Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, and Rep. Rida Robes of San Jose

del Monte City in Bulacan, said President Duterte was truly an inspiration to the Filipino people. “Happy birthday, Mr. President! Thank you for giving us hope and for laying the groundwork of a better tomorrow for the Filipinos,” said Romualdez. Velasco, for his part, said: “On behalf of the House of Representatives and the Filipino people, thank you for all you have done for our country. May your legacy of meaningful change and comprehensive development live on in the hearts and minds of the next generations to come.” “I hope you enjoy your special day, surrounded by the warmth of your family and loved ones. May God bless you, keep you, and strengthen you always,” Velasco said.

Meanwhile, Presidential frontrunner Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said the continuing high trust ratings of President Duterte proved “he is a true leader and public servant of the Filipino people.” On the sideline of SMNI’s presidential interview, Marcos stressed that Filipinos would always be grateful for what Duterte had done for the country. “We wish him a very happy birthday and we will always be grateful for all that he has done for our country, and I

think that is reflected on how Filipinos now react to him,” he said, when asked for a birthday message for Duterte. “He has been a true leader and he has been a true servant of the people that is why people trust him and still believe in him,” he added. In his statement, Romualdez said: “I join the Filipino nation in extending our warmest greetings to President Duterte on the occasion of his 77th birthday today. “As we join him in celebration, we

Benguet... From A1

Taal less restive, but Alert Level 3 stays—Phivolcs

She said the price declines were so steep that some farmers have been distributing the carrots for free—even though it costs them about P25 to produce a kilo. Senator Panfilo Lacson quizzed officials from the Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Customs about the massive smuggling of vegetables and other agricultural products. “How could you explain the proliferation of smuggled carrots, vegetables and meat products in the market? It’s really difficult to reconcile. It’s hard to get [import] accreditation and registration ... [so] why the rampant smuggling?” Agriculture Assistant Secretary Federico Laciate Jr. said they needed automation to thwart the smugglers. He noted there were discrepancies in the data of imported agricultural products because there is no centralized database system where they can monitor the actual import volume in real time. Senate President Vicente Sotto III, meanwhile, asked why no charges have been filed against smugglers. Vincent Maronilla of the Bureau of Customs cited the lack of other documents for the filing of charges. At the same hearing, farmers said buyers seemed to prefer the smuggled carrots because they had a longer shelf life and could be stored for up to two months, unlike the local varieties that can go bad in two to three days. Sotto said this might be because the carrots from China contain chemicals like formalin to extend their shelf life. At the same time, Lacson said citizens can play a role in curbing agricultural smuggling by making “citizens’ arrests” of those selling smuggled vegetables in the open market by applying the “plain view doctrine.” “If you see that the vegetables are obviously smuggled, there’s such a thing as citizens arrest. Any citizen can seize the items and they can seek assistance from law enforcement to do so,” Lacson said. He said this approach is similar to the one he adopted against illegal drugs and carnapping when he headed the Philippine National Police from 1999 to 2001. This helped bring down criminality including carnapping and illegal drugs. Lacson said such demand reduction is half of the strategy, with the other half being supply reduction where authorities can seize smuggled vegetables before they leave the Customs facilities.

CBCP:... From A1 “hateful and negative campaigning.” “As men and women of the cloth, they should be more circumspect, refrain from openly meddling with politics and stop making reckless imputations or statements that only serves as a spir-

Largest-ever... From A1 Luzon, which is usually an annual affair but was cancelled or curtailed during the pandemic. Armed Forces chief General Andres Centino said at the opening ceremony in Manila that the largest round of the Balikatan war games reflected the “deepening alliance” between the two countries. “In light of the volatile, uncertain and ambiguous nature of the security setting that we are faced and the fastchanging advancements in warfare, it has indeed been a shared responsibility to address our vulnerabilities and ensure that both our Armed Forces are able to promptly and effectively respond to any crisis or emergency under all circumstances,” Centino said.

magmatic unrest.” He warned that sudden explosive eruptions and ash fall were possible. As the government moved almost 4,000 people to safety, Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano urged members of the next Congress to act swiftly on proposals to establish a Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR), saying disaster response should not be done on the fly in a country as prone to natural calamities

as the Philippines. “We can’t have an ad-hoc response to disasters every time. We already know that we live near volcanoes, and we have earthquakes, we’re always hit by storms, we have to have an agency in charge of this and systems in place so that we’re always ready to respond in these times,” said Cayetano, one of the principal authors of House Bill 5989 on the establishment of a DDR.

buying if that is what influences their vote. It’s not based on the amount. What’s important is that your intention in giving is to buy their vote,” he said. The Comelec is set to constitute on Wednesday its Task Force Kontra Bigay which will be composed of several government agencies, including the Department of Justice, National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Philippine Information Agency. The task force aims to act on its own initiative as well as on formal complaints involving vote-buying. “We can give the task force the power to conduct motu proprio investigations, to gather evidence on their own, and to call and subpoena people, so we don’t have to depend on somebody filing a complaint,” Garcia said. “The task force will go after them,” he added. “Anyone found guilty of these prohibited acts under the Omnibus Election Code will face penalties of imprisonment and fine.” Jimenez explained that the names of the deceased are being removed from the voter’s list based on the records sub-

mitted by the local civil registrar. “Our delisting process goes through the civil registry. So, if the civil registry cannot inform us about those who have passed away, we cannot remove their names either,” the spokesman said. Meanwhile, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines on Monday launched its 40 days of prayer and discernment campaign for the May 9 polls. The first day of the 40-day campaign will be on March 30. “In 40 days, I hope we can do something. We can reach out to more people. The important thing here is that our voters will know exactly who the candidates are, so they won’t just vote because they were told to vote or were influenced by social media,” said Caritas Philippines Executive Secretary Fr. Antonio Labiao Jr. “I hope we don’t vote because there is money in exchange for it or else, we already lose the sacredness of our vote, we surrender our power, and we would no longer have the right to speak because we have sold our power,” Labiao added. Vito Barcelo

people with impunity,” the communist leaders said. However, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the NPA anniversary means nothing, but lives lost and suffering due to its meaningless cause. “We are once again reminded of the lives lost and the suffering caused by the Communist Terrorists, particularly their armed wing, the NPA. Over the years, the NPA took pride in committing lawless activities such as extortion, destruction of civilian-owned properties, and undermining the government,

all in the name of their so-called ideology,” Lorenzana said. The NPA was established on March 29, 1969, as the armed wing of the CPP. The CPP called on the NPA to launch “special tactical offensives” to disable the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) communication system and air assets (see related story on A3 – Editors). They said this attack would “effectively sabotage the capabilities of the enemy wherever possible and carry out punitive measures against vulnerable enemy units and elements” that may prompt the AFP to reduce the number of its forces deployed against the guerrilla fronts.

The CPP also directed the NPA to carry “widespread punitive actions combined with blows to the head” within the guerrilla fronts as it may compel the military and police forces to be on the defensive. For its part, the Department of National Defense pointed out that communist rebels were responsible for deaths and suffering. “Over the years, the NPA took pride in committing lawless activities such as extortion, destruction of civilianowned properties, and undermining the government, all in the name of their socalled ideology,” said Lorenzana, adding there was more to be done to stop armed conflicts in the country.

itual, moral, social and cultural poison,” Marcos’ spokesperson Vic Rodriguez had said. Christian Monsod, one of the framers of the 1987 Constitution, said priests and bishops “have the right to freedom of speech” to comment on political issues. David stressed the importance of the May 9 elections, as it will determine who Filipinos will entrust their lives

and future to for the next six years. “We need leaders and lawmakers who have heartfelt intentions and who are worthy to serve for the good of our nation: in every town, city, province, and the whole country,” he said. David advised Catholics to take some steps to ensure a free and fair democratic election, which includes further discussion and scrutiny of political can-

didates and current issues. He also suggested voters take the “LASER” test when examining candidates – an acronym for Lifestyle, Action, Supporters, Election conduct, and Reputation of a candidate. “We must demand accountability and transparency of our candidates, our leaders, and ourselves. We want fair elections,” the prelate added.

US Major General Jay Bargeron said the “friendship and trust” between their respective armed forces would allow them to “succeed together across the entire spectrum of military operations.” The exercises will cover maritime security, amphibious operation, live-fire training, and counterterrorism, as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. Recent maneuvers between the two countries focused on potential conflict in the South China Sea, which Beijing claims almost in its entirety. Trillions of dollars in trade pass through the strategic sea and it is thought to contain rich petroleum deposits, making it a frequent source of regional friction. China has ignored a 2016 ruling by the Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration that its historical claim is without basis. AFP

Drama... From A1

to the deaf and disabled communities. “This is our moment,” he said. Jessica Chastain won best actress for “The Eyes of Tammy Faye,” in which she played a real-life televangelist who became an unlikely champion for the LGBTQ community. “We’re faced with discriminatory and bigoted legislation that is sweeping our country... in times like this, I think of Tammy and I’m inspired by her radical acts of love,” she said.

By Rio N. Araja TAAL Volcano in Batangas remains under Alert Level 3 despite weaker activity in the last 24 hours, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said Monday. While no volcanic earthquakes were detected, Phivolcs Director Renato Solidum said Alert Level 3 would continue due to the volcano’s “intensified

Vote-buying:... From A1 Jimenez said that some of these cases could be used to question the credibility of the elections. “I foresee that when election day comes, many of our citizens will still see the names of their relatives on the list because our delisting process is no longer able to keep up with the pace,” the spokesman said. “Other people might see the names of their relatives, and that can be used as an argument that the elections are rigged,” he added. The Peñera doctrine refers to a landmark Supreme Court ruling in 2009 which voided the prohibition on premature campaigning. This means that expenses of candidates before the start of the campaign period are not covered by campaign guidelines. Garcia said vote-buying does not necessarily involve giving money as cited in Section 261 of Omnibus Election Code. “A promise can be considered vote-

On NPA’s... From A1

been presumed a longshot for Hollywood’s biggest prize until very recently, pulled off a remarkable late surge to emerge triumphant. The film bagged the historic prize for Apple TV+, a relative newcomer in a streaming market dominated by rivals like Netflix. “Thank you to the Academy for letting our ‘CODA’ make history tonight,” said producer Philippe Rousselet. Taking its title from the acronym for child of deaf adult, the movie also won for best adapted screenplay, and best supporting actor for Troy Kotsur, who plays the father of a teenage girl who can hear and wants to pursue a career in music. Kotsur dedicated his golden statuette

‘Art imitates life’

But Tinseltown’s biggest night was dominated by a shocking moment in which Smith -- who won best actor for his work on “King Richard” -- slapped Rock on stage, before returning to his seat alongside his wife Jada Pinkett Smith and shouting profanities. “Keep my wife’s name out of your

‘COVID booster dose to boost economy too’ By Othel V. Campos and Willie Casas THE government needs to speed up the delivery of the third COVID-19 vaccine dose not only to strengthen people’s immunity from the disease, but also to boost confidence in the economy. “I think it will be difficult to go to Alert Level 0, until about 80 to 90 percent of our people have their booster shots,” said presidential adviser for entrepreneurship Joey Concepcion. “The slow booster vaccination may have an impact on the economy in the second half and may lead to another surge in COVID cases.” He said while primary vaccinations are close to 100 percent in the National Capital Region and surrounding provinces, the rate of booster shots administered is slower, at 30 percent. “We need to focus our energy on deploying the third dose,” he said. Many areas in Regions 5 to 10 have a very low booster vaccination rate of under 10 percent. Concepcion noted there are vaccines that are near expiry and may be good until June 2022 only so the government should move faster to use the remaining vaccines. Areas with high primary dose rate should immediately roll out the booster vaccines while those areas with slow roll-out of primary shots should focus on having these first two doses administered, he said. He warned that the likelihood of having another surge in the second semester is high since the inoculation of booster vaccines has been lagging or stalled in some areas. While the government is still grappling for measures to bring booster vaccines to the public, the private sector is now working on having its fourth vaccination or a 2nd booster shot for private company employees. He said there are enough vaccines from private sector procurement that may be used for the fourth jab, either in May or June. He added the private sector is willing to provide the second booster to their employees to keep the business momentum. “What is of concern here is how the government can provide for the public, the citizens to have their fourth shot.”

Kerosene... From A1 per liter,” Chevron Philippines said in its advisory. Petron Corp., Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp., Flying V, Seaoil Philippines, Total Philippines, Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Cleanfuel, PetroGazz, and PTT Philippines issued separate advisories of the oil price hike. World oil prices continued its rally last week amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis and increasing global demand. On March 22, the oil companies implemented a price cut in domestic oil products after world prices softened due to possible demand decline in Asia and positive signs of the Iran nuclear deal and the Russia-Ukraine peace talks. The oil firms rolled back gasoline prices by P5.45-P5.50 per liter, diesel by P11.45 per to P11.50 per liter and kerosene by P8.55 per liter. These resulted in the year-to-date adjustments to stand at a net increase of P14.90 per liter for gasoline, P19.20 per liter for diesel and P16.35 per liter for kerosene. fucking mouth,” yelled Smith, forcing the producers to bleep out several seconds of audio from the televised broadcast in the United States. Rock, presenting the best documentary prize, had compared Jada’s tightly cropped hair to Demi Moore’s appearance in the film “G.I. Jane.” Jada suffers from alopecia, a condition causing hair loss. The moment left stunned viewers questioning if it had been scripted or genuine. But when he returned to the stage to accept his award, a tearful Smith lamented “people disrespecting you” in Hollywood and apologized to the Academy “and all my fellow nominees.” Smith, who plays the father of tennis greats Serena and Venus Williams in “King Richard,” added: “Art imitates life. I look like the crazy father, just like they said about Richard Williams.” AFP

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TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2022 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Binay eyes long-term rehab of Taal-affected communities By Joel. E. Zurbano FORMER Vice President and United Nationalists Alliance (UNA) party senatorial bet Jejomar Binay on Monday said the government must ensure the long-term rehabilitation of communities affected by the recurrence of the Taal Volcano eruptions. Binay said the affected families have yet to fully recover from Taal’s eruptions in 2020. Some 4,000 residents were reportedly displaced by the volcano’s current eruptions. “To date, many residents who evacuated due to the volcanic eruptions in 2020 are still unemployed,” Binay said. “They have lost their jobs and source of livelihood. And those who were evacuated from danger zones have not been provided with new homes,” he added. During his recent visit to these areas in February, Binay said residents had complained that they have not been provided housing and livelihood opportunities as

promised by the national government. Binay said aside from helping residents with their basic needs, the national government must also implement a longterm program to help the affected residents and their communities. In March last year, the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) told a House hearing that 86 per cent - or P36.1 billion - of the P42 billion allocated for the rehabilitation program for Taal has not been funded. A NEDA official had said priority funding was given to programs to fight COVID-19, that and revenue collections were low. Binay said with the economy starting to recover, the government should prioritize the rehabilitation of Taal communities, as well as those devastated by typhoon Odette. Communities in Central Visayas devastated by typhoon Odette were still struggling to restore services and repair damaged infrastructure, while most residents have yet to find jobs, he said.

F2F CLASSES. It is back to school for students of the Kabacan Pilot Central Elementary School in Kabacan North Cotabato which conducted on Monday its first day of pilot testing for face to face classes, ending online lessons during the pandemic. Ver Noveno

MILF-UBJP fields mixed Muslim, Christian bets in May local polls C By Nash B. Maulana

OTABATO CITY—THE Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is ﬁelding local candidates of Christian descent in the coming May 9 elections in what was seen as the beginning of the erstwhile separatist group’s transformation and reintegration into the political and societal mainstream. The MILF leadership has anointed Mohammad Ali “Bruce” Matabalao, a former city councilor as its political party’s mayoral bet here. Matabalao’s mother, surnamed Dela Cruz, traces her roots from Eastern Visayas and Ilocos Sur. Abdulraof Macaua who used to be MILF vice-military chairman, said two elections have passed since the group registered the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in 2015. “If we do not participate in the coming May polls, the UBJP will lose its

Comelec accreditation as a political party,” Macacua said. Maguindanao First District Rep. Roonie Sinsuat is seeking reelection under the UBJP banner. Sinsuat hails from an illustrious political family whose ancestry dates back to the Philippine Commonwealth Senate and the Quesada clan of Spanish ancestry. Matabalao’s lineup for the city council includes news anchor Florante Formento, also an incumbent city councilor, and younger brother of veteran broadcast journalist Bing Formento; and radio reporter Henjie Ali

whose family lineage comes from MuslimChristian intermarriage. Sinsuat’s cousin, Maguindanao Second District Rep. Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu is UBJP’s gubernatorial bet against incumbent Gov. Mariam Sangki-Mangudadatu. Labor and Employment Minister Muslimin Sema of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), a non-candidate, said the new generation of Moros and Christians here were lucky that their forebears have transcended an “imaginary dividing wall.” Sema, chairman of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Council of 15, said even Christian residents had asked him in 1998 to help “bring the dividing walls down” amidst the polarization of the city’s population between Christians and Muslims for many years. Sema, who was also former radio commentator of the BBC-run Suara Malaysia (Voice of Malaysia), recalled that students

Solon optimistic new law will prevent sexual abuse of minors

in his time had to row bancas to reach the city from Barangay Bubong (site of the present-day Cotabato Grand Mosque) and rented bed-spaces while studying. He said thanked, his wife former Rep. Bai Sandra Sema for helping raise funds for the construction of the Cotabato Circumferential Road which now interlinks most of the inaccessible villages.. Macacua, also BARMM’s senior minister has assured supporters that the MILF-led UBJP would uphold its commitment to peaceful, honest and orderly elections as it participates in the local polls for the ﬁrst time. The UBJP slate has two female candidates; Hunyn Abu and Bai Myria Candao, granddaughter of the late Datu Liwa Candao, a former city vice-mayor; Kusin Taha, a veteran city councilor’ and ﬁve newcomers, namely Kagui Hamid Maguing, Guiadzuri Midtimbang, Marouph Pasawiran, Abdulrakim Usman, and Naut Usman.

By Maricel V. Cruz MANILA Rep. Manuel Lopez has expressed optimism that a newly enacted law would effectively stamp out if not drastically reduce incidence of sexual abuse against minors. Lopez was one of the principal authors of Republic Act 11648, also called Act Raising the Age of Sexual Consent, signed recently into law by President Duterte. “I am optimistic that abuses against minors will be drastically reduced by RA 11648,” as a case in point his district of Tondo which has very dense population with “unsafe living conditions and high incidence of criminality. “The new law, RA 11648, will not, alone, attain in full its purpose unless all relevant sectors of the community work hand-inhand to combat these abuses and together exert all efforts to protect minors and children,” said Lopez, chairman of the House Committee on Metro Manila Development. Lopez also lauded his fellow legislators and co-authors, members of Congress, and President Duterte for the enactment of the measure. “Our schools, as mandated by the law, should ensure that they put in place learning subjects or sessions regarding rights and protection of children so they are able to identify, respond to, and report rape and other sexual offenses. Our police force must be vigilant in going after all offenders. Government institutions must continue to create opportunities and meaningful developments to improve the lives of the citizens, particularly those of the less fortunate.” Lopez also urged parents to take a more active role in the lives of their children. “This is the most effective way of protecting our children against these abuses. As the new law takes effect today, let us not stop doing our part and continue to pursue more ways to protect the rights of all children in the country.”

Boy, 13, dies after having circumcision THE Public Attorney’s Office has stepped into case of a 13-year old boy who reportedly died the after having circumcision in Lucena City, Laguna on March 22. Dr. Erwin Erfe, PAO forensics chief, conducted an autopsy on the remains of Angelo Tolentino to “determine the cause of the death.” PAO chief Persida Acosta said they were looking at the possibility of filing criminal charges, specifically reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, against organizers of the event and the doctors of the medical mission organized by the Scouts Royale Brotherhood. “There is clear negligence,”

Acosta said. The boy’s mother, Ana, has sought the help of PAO through the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption. After undergoing the circumcision procedure, the teenager’s penis reportedly never stopped bleeding. He was rushed to the Quezon Memorial Hospital, where he succumbed due to hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. PAO also questioned the hospital for its failure to administer blood transfusion on the victim. “The incident must serve as a lesson to those undertaking medical missions, that they must ﬁrst conduct screening and look into the medical history of the patients,” Acosta said. Rio N. Araja

TAKING CARE OF TRAFFIC. Unmindful of the scorching heat of the sun, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) traffic enforcers attend to their job on Roxas Blvd. in Manila. The MMDA is set to implement a 30-minute “heat stroke break” among its field personnel starting next month. Norman Cruz

NCDA lauds enactment of law on learning for young PWDs SHFC releases P35.77m to relocate THE National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) has cited the enactment of the Republic Act 11650 – An Act Instituting a Policy of Inclusion and Services for Learners with Disabilities in Support of Inclusive Education. The measure was signed into law by President Rodrigo Duterte last March 11, 2022. The law mandates all schools in the country to provide “free and appropriate public early and basic education and support and related services” for

NEW JAIL FOR QC. Officials of

the Bureau of Jail Management of the Philippines (BJMP) take a walk-thru to the newly built detention cells of the New Quezon City Jail Male Dormitory on Payatas Road with a capacity of 6,000 prisoners, thereby decongesting by more than one-half the main Quezon City jail which has been bursting at the seams eversince. Manny Palmero

learners with disabilities. It also aims to establish a learning facility called the “Inclusive Learning Centers of Learners with Disabilities” or ILRCs for the students’ general education system. As a policy-making body and leaders of advocacy for the rehabilitation and equalization of opportunities in the context of rights-based society for persons with disability, the passage of this law is an important milestone that will uphold the rights and uplift the lives of children with disabilities in

the Philippines, the NCDA said in a statement. “The disability sector lauds the passage of RA 11650 and regard it as one of the landmark laws that upholds the rights of persons with disabilities, specifically those children and youth with learning challenges. The law provides new hopes for a better future for the disability sector as education is one of the major pillars of empowerment that the NCDA promotes,” NCDA executive director Emerito Rojas said.

800 families on waterways to Naic THE Social Housing Finance Corp., (SHFC) has released P35.77 million for the acquisition of a 25,275-square meter property in Naic, Cavite as relocation site for some 800 families living along the waterways of Parañaque City and Las Piñas City. The SHFC is an attached agency of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development. Junefe Payot, SHFC executive vice president, and Bob Flores, Settlements Management Group vice president, turned over the check to the landowner, Edgardo Sumilong, in a ceremony held in Barangay Molino last March 22.

Payot identified the beneficiaries of the project as members of the Parlas Homeowners’ Association, Inc., organized in 2017 and led by its president, Paterno Casas. The SHFC approved the loan application of the association in December 2019 under the community mortgage program, the agency’s flagship initiative that assists legally organized associations of informal settler families (ISFs) to purchase and develop a tract of land under the concept of community ownership. Casas thanked the concerned local government for accepting them and approving their relocation to the municipality.

Ex-rebels: Vote for ‘KABAG’ party-list bloc is vote for Reds FORMER members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPPNPA-NDF) dropped bombshells on the so-called “KABAG” party-list bloc in the House of Representative with their revelation that all of its nominees are diehard operatives of the Communist Terrorists Groups (CTGs). Some 13 former communist rebels revealed this at the weekly press conference of the National Task Force to End Local Communists Armed Conﬂict (NTF-ELCAC) at the National Press Club. They were one in saying the “KABAG”

bloc—an acronym for the Kabataan, Anakpawis, Bayan Muna, Act-Teachers, and Gabriela party-list organizations— was created by the Central Committee of the CPP-NPA-NDF headed by Jose Maria Sison to be their so-called “legal fronts.” According to Jeffrey Celiz alias Ka Eric, they were all recruited using the same formula, “first, as an activist” by way of the legal fronts created by the CPP-NPA-NDF, “and eventually as NPA fighters.” Celiz, who back in 1987 was a member of Partido ng Bayan, said he has personal and intimate knowledge on how the CPP-NPANDF found a way to infiltrate the govern-

ment through the party-list system, ﬁelding ﬁrst Bayan Muna that played a part in toppling the presidency of Joseph Estrada. It was during this time that Celiz claimed to become close with other CTG leaders such as Teddy Casiño, Satur Ocampo and Neri Colmenares. Jade Cinco, alias Ka JR from Samar, explained that he started in 2015 as a recruit of Kabataan Partylist and became its Secretary General after a couple of years. He, too, became a recruiter for the communist movement and persuaded young students, farmers, teachers and even mothers to join the CTGs.

More parties throw support to UniTeam B

TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2022

News

ARELY a month before the scheduled May 9 elections, presidential frontrunner Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and his running mate Inday Sara Duterte’s chances of winning continue to gain strength. This, after some of the country’s biggest political parties banded together to support and ensure their victories in their respective presidential and vicepresidential bids. On Thursday, the National Unity Party (NUP), described as one of the biggest political parties in the country declared its support for the BBM-Sara Uniteam ticket. In declaring their support, the NUP’s top leaders said the call of presidential frontrunner Marcos for unity adheres to their party’s primary vision. To recall, President Rodrigo Duterte’s political party, the PDP-Laban led by Energy Sec. Alfonso Cusi, also earlier announced its endorsement of Marcos’ presidential bid. The UniTeam was also endorsed by Kilusang Bagong Lipunan (KBL), Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP), Pwersa ng Masang Pilipino (PMP), and Reform Party (RP). Also earlier, the three biggest labor groups, including the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP), Labor Party of the Philippines (LPP), and Partido Lakas ng Manggagawang Pilipino (PLMP) also endorsed the UniTeam. In an online survey, Filipinos in Canada are showing solid support for the candidacy of Marcos, Jr. In the question of the Filipino Portal: “Survey! Sino ang iboboto ng mga nasa Canada?”, Marcos immediately emerged as

the runaway winner. Those who favor Marcos need to choose the heart emoticon, while those who chose Vice President Leni Robredo will use the wow emoji. After three days, ‘likers’ have reached 4,500 respondents. Marcos got 3,700 heart emoji or 82.22 percent; while Robredo Leni has 567 or 12.6 president. Marcos Jr. meanwhile promised to uplift the lives of fisherfolk by modernizing their fishing vessels and providing them with needed equipment to ensure a higher catch and safer voyage in the sea. During the SMNI’s ‘Deep Probe’ presidential interview, Marcos Jr. said there is a need for the government to attend the needs of the fishermen because most of them are still stuck with their old boats, many of which have already seen better days. Marcos said local fishermen must be safe and be assured that they get all the fish they need without intervention from other nations. “Then of course, patrols kasi maraming nagpo-poach sa atin,” he said. Marcos highlighted the need of the fishing industry after previous announcement by the government that the country will start importing galunggong from other countries. As part of the agriculture sector, Marcos said fisherfolks, as well as farmers, must have all new and best techniques and technologies. Rey E. Requejo

UNITEAM IN COTABATO. UniTeam presidential candidate Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and his running mate Lakas-

CMD vice presidential candidate and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte flash a BBM-SARA tandem signs with Cotabato Governor Lala Taliño-Mendoza (6th right) together with UniTeam senatorial slate Migz Zubiri (3rd right), Herbert Bautista (4th right), Win Gatchalian (5th right), Jinggoy Estrada (5th left), TUCP Party List Rep Democrito Mendoza and other local candidates during proclamation rally at Carmen North Cotabato.Gov.Mendoza declares full support for BBM-SARA tandem. Ver Noveno

Robredo eyes energy subsidies in Northern Samar By Rio N. Araja IF elected as the next President, Vice President Leni Robredo on Monday promised to deliver energy-related subsidies in Northern Samar. “The government has yet to allocate more funds here. Power rate is too high. That is why there is a need for the government subsidy, especially on renewable resources,” she said. Robredo yesterday visited Calbayog, Northern Samar in her campaign sorties. “You have geothermal, hydrogen resources, and that’s really why there is really a need for a subsidy from the government, especially now the prices of

By Maricel V. Cruz

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

LUNAS RALLY IN TAGUIG. Former House Deputy Secretary-General and now LUNAS Partylist first nominee Brian Raymund Yamsuan explains his organization’s main advocacy of protecting the rights and welfare of “no-work, no-pay” workers before a crowd of more than 15,000 who attended the Grand Proclamation Rally of Team Lani Cayetano (TLC) at the Lakeshore C6 Road in Taguig City on Friday. The entire TLC team, led by incumbent 2nd district Taguig Rep. Lani Cayetano, who is running for Mayor of the city in the coming elections, has expressed their full support for LUNAS. Taguig 1st District Councilor Darwin Bernabe Icay and Monica Ann Mitra are the other two nominees of LUNAS.

terte had huge rallies in Maguindanao and Sultan Kudarat. DAVAO City Mayor Sara Duterte’s husband Carpio said the nation needs the UniTeam lawyer Manases “Mans” Carpio on Monday tandem to unite the nation after the May urged voters in Carmen, North Cotabato elections. to support his wife, who is seeking the He said the electoral contest has vice presidency, and party standardgrouped Filipinos into several bearer former Sen. Ferdinand colors, including green, red, pink, “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and blue. Carpio made the appeal dur“After ng May 9 elecing a jampacked rally in front of tion, wala na tayong color, Carmen municipal hall organisang color nal lang, white, ized by Vice Gov. Lala Taliñowhich stands for unity,” Carpio Mendoza who is eyeing a comeadded, reminding the people to back as province’s governor in the vote for Mayor Sara for vice presicoming poll and her husband Rep. Carpio dent who is number 4 on the ballot; Democrito Mendoza of party-list Bongbong Marcos for president, group Trade Union Congress of the Philip- number 7 on the ballot, and also Lala pines (TUCP). Taliño Mendoza for governor of North It was the first time Carpio joined his Cotabato, number 4 on the ballot. (After wife in the campaign. They brought with the May 9 election, there will only be one them her their two children, Mateo Lucas or political color--white, which stands for Stingray and Marko Digong or Stone Fish. unity....We’ll rise together, let’s love the From North Cotabato, Marcos and Du- Philipines)

Isko vows more infrastructure projects for Mindanao By Rey E. Requejo AKSYON Demokratiko presidential candidate Francisco Isko Moreno Domagoso vowed that if elected president, his administration will infuse more infrastructure development in Mindanao to accelerate human development index in the region and bring about more inclusive and equitable economic growth outside Luzon. “There are areas here, would you believe, based on our data given to me, only 8 percent have access to clean, potable water. And of course, last is the internet connectivity because it creates opportunity and commerce online. An opportunity for any John Does and Mary or Petras or Pedro to make a living online. So, these are the things that will hopefully be given and felt in Mindanao when the day comes,” Moreno told reporters Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental

Moreno was referring to the “law of diminishing returns” when he said in previous interviews that a peso spent in the National Capital Region doesn’t count while a peso spent in Mindanao and the impoverished areas in the Visayas will contribute much to regional economic growth. Moreno had said what is important to him is to increase the human development index by providing the minimum basic needs of the people through decent and affordable housing projects, free medicines, and modern hospitals, providing jobs and quality education. He said if given the chance to serve the country, Moreno will also see to it that Mindanao will have a stable supply of electricity, unhampered access to clean and potable water and better internet connectivity. Joining Moreno in his Northern Mindanao sortie is his running Dr. Wil-

lie Ong, Aksyon Demokratiko senatorial bets Samira Gutoc, Carl Balita, and Jopet Sison, and guest candidate John Castriciones of PDP-Laban. On the question of how a “Moreno presidency” will deal with other problems in Mindanao such as terror and bandit groups, he said he will try to make send to them, talk to them that we are all Filipinos and we should not be fighting one another. “Well, we don’t negotiate with terrorists definitely but if they want to make sense, there is nothing wrong with us having an ear for anyone who wants to change their life or may be tired of diving into any dangerous adventure, even risking their lives. So, at the end of the day a country, a flag. Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao. We will not allow disintegration or the separation of our country, geographically and as citizens of this country,” Moreno pointed out.

Ka Leody not withdrawing despite his low ranking in election surveys PRESIDENTIAL candidate Ka Leody De Guzman said he will not withdraw his candidacy in the May elections, despite surveys showing his low numbers. Surveys show De Guzman has ranked in the bottom five out of the 10 presidential aspirants. The latest Pulse Asia survey saw his rank rising to 7th place, and his rating improving to 0.1 percent. The labor leader said he also has no intentions of supporting another candidate. In an online forum held recently, De Guzman said he has no personal issues with the candidates, except Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. However, he said his rivals are also focusing on the the same system of governance, and the continuation of the same laws.

The Ilocano “Kakampinks” said they aim to give Robredo and her running mate Senator Francis Pangilinan at least 10 percent of Ilocos Norte’s vote. They dismissed the “Solid North” narrative in favor of the Marcos clan. According to Raval, in their march around Laoag City to Aurora park, they had only 15 members. She said she has learned the art of ignoring bashers and hecklers. Pangilinan on Monday meanwhile reiterated that Robredo and the people have chosen him as the vice-president’s running-mate. Robredo has repeatedly dismissed the idea of hybrid tandems and that Pangilinan is her only choice in this campaign.

Mans Carpio woos Cotabato voters to support Inday Sara, Bongbong

Ping eyes national broadband plan to improve access INDEPENDENT presidential candidate Sen. Panfilo ‘Ping’ Lacson expressed his willingness to go after unsettled taxes to fund the government’s crucial projects, including a national broadband plan (NBP), which would significantly improve internet connection services across the country. Speaking from the perspective of someone who used to defend the budget of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Lacson explained that roughly P18-billion is required to build the necessary infrastructure and systems to carry out such a plan. Lacson said he could raise that budget if Filipinos grant him the privilege and opportunity to manage the executive department, which has the authority to implement these kinds of programs. “If we accomplish that (NBP), our internet services will be steady,” he said. “Unfortunately, I was always trying to pursue that—P18 billion. I was drawing funds from other agencies that I believe would only misuse it. But the problem again was in the implementation,” he further stated. Lacson recalled that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) only released a little over P900 million for the national broadband network project. This prevented the DICT from developing the fiber optic backbone, which is a vital component of highspeed internet services. Improving the country’s information highways is tied to the overall digitalization plan of Lacson, which will be a priority program under his presidency. For this reason, he said he would pursue whatever taxes are owed to the government to fund future projects for the benefit of the people.

gasoline have been getting high. If we do not subsidize, we could not move forward,” she said. Even the farmers and fisherfolks need subsidies, she added. She also vowed to deliver development projects in the province. In Ilocos Norte, volunteers of Robredo vowed to deliver votes for her presidential bid in the 2022 elections. The group, led by Zsazsa Raval, lead convenor of Ilocos Norte for Leni-Kiko Volunteers (INLOVE), said they had only eight members in October 2021, but the number grew bigger with over 800 volunteers taking part in their march. “The North belongs to the Filipino people,” the group said.

He also lamented that the economic progress of the country has always been in the hands of big busineses, which is not the proper way. De Guzman said he is a democratic socialist and his platform hinges on a pro-labor and pro-masses programs. Partido Lakas ng Masa (PLM) chairperson Sonny Melencio earlier said the candidacy of De Guzman will benefit from politicians who continue to shift allegiances prior to the May 9 elections. Melencio said this is because Filipinos do not like political “turncoats.” Melencio said this trend would actually help bolster De Guzman’s chances in the elections. Melencio further said De Guzman is a “a cut above the rest of the presidentiables since he has remained loyal to PLM.”

CAMPAIGN MOTORCADE. San Pedro City Representative Dave Almarinez along with his wife Hazel Reyes “Ara Mina” Almarinez and re-elected 1st District Board Member Abigail Alonte conduct a motorcade and proclamation rally held in Brgy. Rosario on Sunday. Roy Tomandao

Author set to file case vs. Pacquiao over book deal By Vito Barcelo A US-BASED Filipino book author will file a $1 million damage suit against world boxing champ and Senator Manny Pacquiao for breach of contract in the publication of a biography book highlighting his personal life. Alfredo Llana, a former journalist and author of several political books in the Philippines said that he met Pacquiao in the United States sometime in August 2021 where they discussed publishing the Filipino boxing champ’s life history, from being a cigarette vendor in Saranggani, Mindanao province to a successful professional boxer and politician. Pacquiao, who is the only boxer in history to have won twelve major world titles in eight different weight divisions, “agreed in principle” with Llana to write and publish the Filipino boxing hero’s memoir. In 2021, a book entitled “Born to Lead, The Ascendancy of Manny Pacqiuao” came out from the printing press, with copies already distributed in several bookstores in the US. Under the “verbal agreement”, Pacquiao will buy at least 25, 000 copies of the book, which he said would be distributed to all SK chairman nationwide. However, Pacquiao could not be reached after the book was published, failing to honor the verbal agreement with Llana. In his complaint, Llana cited that Pacquiao gave his approval to publish the book in the presence of his former coach, Emil Romano, businessman Peter Cadorna, Fleurese Llana, and the book author himself in Pacquiao’s mansion in the US.

Opinion Cowardly dolts red-tag bookstores

SOMETIME late on Monday (March 21) or in the wee hours of Tuesday (March 22), Solidaridad Bookshop in Ermita, Manila and Popular Bookstore in Quezon City were tagged with red paint by unknown vandals. “Soli’s” sign was defaced with scrawls, while the sign and steel door of Popular bore the calumny “NPA terorista.” Soli and Popular are frequented by the nation’s intelligentsia, avid readers, the curious, and booklovers of all kinds, for the reason that these stores carry books that are not available elsewhere, many of them written by Filipinos, and on a wide variety of topics, running the gamut from literature to textbooks. Both stores also host literary events such as book launches and lectures. Literary and writers’ groups have written statements condemning the incident and asking authorities to investigate it, a request which, as of yesterday, seems to have been ignored by the said authorities. The Philippine Center of the International PEN (Poets and Playwrights, Essayists, and Novelists) wrote, “Bookstores are channels of free expression and free opinion that are fundamental to the health and well-being of a democracy. With their liberal selection of titles, bookstores quietly but judiciously carry out debates and dialogues that keep democracy active and functioning. “Ideological tagging and the violence of political partisanship achieve nothing but silence the bookstores, and even drive them out of business.” The Manila Critics Circle, which gives out the annual National Book Awards, “denounces in the strongest possible terms the red-tagging and vandalism” of the two bookstores. “Such malicious vandalism is an attack on the right to free speech, the right to think for oneself, and the right to choose what they wish to read. Such graffiti threatens the owners, employees, and customers of these bookstores. “The MCC urges the authorities concerned to act immediately on these threatening acts of red-tagging. People should feel safe going to the bookstore, and they should not have their freedom to avail themselves of the literature of their choosing curtailed in any way. These businesses should not be threatened, nor should the people they employ. As a member of both Philippine PEN and the MCC, I join my voices with that of my colleagues and with those from other groups and decry the red-tagging. As a writer and columnist, I condemn this bullying perpetrated by cowardly dolts who hide under the cover of darkness to perform their dastardly acts anonymously. Who did it? Was it a group of taggers who thought it a good idea to write graffiti on

these shops? But no, the acts weren’t random nor for fun; they targeted these two independent bookstores in particular. More sinisterly, could it have been a statesponsored mission, as some whispers have suggested, meant to intimidate the store owners, staff, and their clientele? Journalism, literature, and art have always been at the forefront of current events, criticizing injustice, oppression, and persecution in any country. Autocratic government officials and politicians, revisionists of history, ultra-conservatives, and those who hew to organization or party lines in blind, unquestioning loyalty are among those with the most to lose from the truth being revealed and their falsehoods and disinformation exposed.

Books lead people to think critically, be aware of systems of governance, and demand accountability from those elected to govern. Books lead people to think critically, be aware of systems of governance, and demand accountability from those elected to govern. This is why autocrats are so afraid of writers and artists brave enough to call out acts of suppression and impunity. Cases in point: Russian writer and dissident Alexei Navalny, recently sentenced to nine years in prison for politically-motivated fraud charges after protesting Putin’s invasion of Ukraine; and U.S.-based journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a critic of Saudi Arabia’s government who was murdered in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in 2018. As far as I know, this is the first instance ever of red-tagging of bookstores. How did Philippine society change so much that this was done, even contemplated, whereas before, bookstores were seen only as peaceful purveyors of printed material? In a large part, this negative transformation can be regarded as a consequence of this administration’s policy of red-tagging of personalities, often without basis. What is permitted, encouraged, and mandated by the state can become normalized if practiced long enough. Suppression can take many forms. This red-tagging of bookstores may send a signal that those purchasing from these shops will likewise be targeted; this may have a chilling effect on the freedoms of speech, expression, and reading. It’s still a mystery who did it, especially because nothing has been heard from the authorities about this. But the pen will always stay mightier than the sword, or, in this case, the paint brush, because free and critical literature and journalism will always be upheld by the brave, principled, and steadfast. And there will always be books for the lovers of knowledge and truth. *** FB and Twitter: @DrJennyO

In a ‘dangerous’ land: tourists trickle back to Iraq By Laure Al Khoury AN American tourist poses for a holiday snap in Iraq, in front of the blue-brick Ishtar Gate that was rebuilt at the ancient site of Babylon under dictator Saddam Hussein. Most foreigners here since Saddam’s ouster in a 2003 US-led invasion have worn army fatigues and carried guns — but more recently there has been a trickle of cameratoting travel pioneers. “Iraq was in my top three countries,” said the visitor to Babylon, 50-year-old Californian Ileana Ovalle, who was excited to see the millennia-old Mesopotamian site. “This is where civilization started,” said the passionate globetrotter with some 40 countries under her belt. “I think too few people understand how important this region is.” Most Western governments still issue travel warnings for all or parts of Iraq, pointing to risks from kidnappings to jihadist bombings and unexploded ordnance from multiple wars. But for some explorers who are unafraid of the odd military roadblock, Iraq is a hot new destination with multiple World Heritage sites that is slowly reopening to the world. Retirees and YouTubers, on package tours or lugging backpacks, are braving Iraq’s still basic tourist infrastructure to visit ancient sites that rival those of Egypt, Syria and Jordan.

Scary travel warnings Whether in Baghdad or Mosul, the northern city that was a jihadist stronghold, they can be seen strolling through streets that still bear the scars of years of conflict. Blogs and vlogs have proliferated with names such as “American in Baghdad, Iraq”, “Two German guys alone in Iraq” and “Exploring Baghdad — how dangerous is it?” The tourist mini-boom has gained momentum since Iraq started granting visas on arrival for dozens of nationalities a year ago. Ovalle, along with 14 other tourists, said she was happy to take part in a trip organized by a travel agency which offers cultural, sports and adventure trips. “The first thing that I noticed is the warmth, the generosity and the kindness of the Iraqi people,” she said. “They smile, they welcome you, they are very polite.” In Babylon, more than 4,000 years old, weeds grow among the old bricks and rubbish is strewn about. Not so long ago, a nearby base housed US and Polish coalition troops. “I think everyone has hesitations, especially coming from the United States,” said another visitor, 35-year-old New Yorker Justin Gonzales. “If you go on our government website, they have a travel advisory saying: ‘Do not travel to Iraq, it’s dangerous, you can get kid-

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TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2022

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EDITORIAL

Leading by example

S Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine enters its second month, the world has come to know the power of effective leadership and a common purpose. What many expected to be a short-lived war measured in days has turned out to be a bloody slog for the Russian invaders as the outnumbered but determined Ukrainians kept them from taking any of their vital cities.

Throughout his nation’s ordeal, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been a beacon of hope for his people, rejecting a US offer to whisk him away to safety outside the capital Kyiv in the early days of the war, with his now famous retort: “The fight is here; I need ammunition, not a ride.” Subsequently, the Ukrainian president has pressured the United States and its allies in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to provide his troops the wherewithal—anti-tank and surface-to-air rockets—to beat back the invaders. In video addresses from Kyiv, he has also exhorted and inspired his people to fight on, despite the merciless shelling of civilian targets by the Russians. In the last month, he has addressed the European Parliament, the British House of Commons, the US Congress, and the Bundestag—pressing them for more aid, and reminding them that the Ukrainians were fighting, not only for themselves, but also for the

rest of Europe, and perhaps the rest of the world.

Zelenskyy has been a beacon of hope for his people. His leadership following the invasion has won him widespread international admiration, and he has been described as a symbol of Ukrainian resistance. In fact, Zelenskyy’s stellar performance in the middle of a war has spawned numerous business articles that analyze his leadership style and try to draw lessons on how best to manage people in a crisis. Edward Segal, writing in Forbes, says Zelenskyy has important lessons for all business leaders about communicating and responding to a crisis. Some of these lessons are:

Be seen. If you want to be a leader, you have to be seen. Communicate effectively. Authentic leaders are able to communicate in a direct and authentic way, with humanity and a sense of empathy. Be active and engaged. A leader must be seen as being willing to do what he is asking his people to do, sharing their tribulations. Lead by example. More times than not, the best leaders don’t lead from the back; they are up front leading the charge. On the other hand, communications executive Jim Olson, writing in Fast Company, says Zelenskyy exhibits the five virtues of consequential leadership: Conviction: Consequential leaders know—and honor—their purpose. Courage: Consequential leaders have the fearlessness to live their purpose— even under life-threatening conditions. Composure: Consequential leaders thrive under fire and in times of great uncertainty. Communication: Consequential leaders communicate frequently, authentically and truthfully. Compassion: Finally, consequential leaders put serving others ahead of serving themselves. Perhaps we, too, can learn a lesson or two about leadership as we prepare to elect our next leader in May. The least we can do is to pick one who truly exhibits most if not all of these virtues. Our nation’s survival may depend on it.

The more important elections IN a unitary presidential constitutional republic such as the Philippines, the central government, both the executive, headed by the president, and the legislature, wield most of the powers and authority. Local government units may exercise only such powers that may be given to them by the central government. Before the enactment of the Local Government Code in 1991, practically every disbursement, official transaction, fund generation activity by the local government must have the blessing of the central government. With very limited powers, local government units (LGUs) have to rely heavily on the central government for funding and logistical support. Politics in the country as it is, local executives who are allies of the president or with better connections are given funding priorities. LGUs whose local executives do not have the connections usually end up at the bottom of the list of funding priorities, to the detriment of their constituencies. But the advent of The Local Government Code (LGC) made some radical improvements to local governance. As envisaged, the LGC is a law seeking to correct systemic and inherent infirmities and inadequacies of LGUs. The Code sought to “provide for a more responsive and accountable local government structure instituted through a system of decentralization with effective mechanisms of recall, initiative, and referendum, allocate among the different local government units their ...” The law give flesh to the constitutional injunction to institutionalize “local autonomy” by giving local governments, from provinces, independent cities, component cities down to the barangay level, greater and broader powers, which hopefully, will effectively emancipate the LGUs from the shackles of “Imperial Manila” napped, there is often violence.’ “But I haven’t seen any of that, and I don’t think I will.”

‘This is where civilization started,’said a visitor. ‘Happy and generous’ Last year, Iraq attracted 107,000 tourists including from Britain, France, the United States, Turkey and Norway. That was over three times more than the 30,000 in 2020, according to Tourism Authority data. Apart from tourists, hundreds of thousands of religious pilgrims — especially Shiite

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

Local campaigning, which has just started, takes on a festive mood, with all sorts of gimmickry to attract voters. But behind this upbeat imagery, local elections have a darker side. Electoral violence, especially in remote areas, is not a rarity. Vote buying, and underhanded and often unlawful tricks are resorted to ensure victory in the polls. Nevertheless, local governments play an essential role in the overall scheme of government, performing a broad range of activities such as social care, schools, housing and planning and waste collection, among others.

We do not lack good leaders in this country. With the Mandanas ruling to take effect this year, the balance of resource allocation in the country will – rightly and in fact belatedly shift to local governments. This dramatic change could make the local government elections more important than the national polls. Certainly for most citizens, their experience with government will be more with their governor, mayor, and barangay chief than with the president and her cabinet. In this regard, I make the following endorsements for the local elections: For my home city Cagayan de Oro, without doubt, I endorse my brother Pompee La Viña. He is a brilliant visionary, a proven administrator, and definitely incorruptible. For the city where I have my residence, Quezon City, I endorse once again the incumbent Mayor Joy Belmonte. I have known Joy as a fellow Jesuit Volunteer and have experienced first-hand her performance in the pandemic. We have directly experienced the efficiency and effectiveness of the Belmonte led QC government during the pandemic, including in getting our vaccination and booster shots. For nearby cities Makati and Pasig, where Muslims, mostly from Iran — flock each year to the shrine cities of Karbala and Najaf, south of Baghdad. Elsewhere in Iraq, however, “we need infrastructure, private investment to have hotels, buses”, said the owner of the Bil Weekend agency, Ali al-Makhzoumi, who has 30 to 40 clients a month. There has been progress. Baghdad’s National Museum reopened earlier in March after three years of closure, and the city’s famed booksellers’ street AlMutanabi was given a facelift in December. Ur, the birthplace of Abraham, is attracting more Westerners following a much-publicised Iraq visit by Pope Francis in 2021. But industry trailblazers want to see more

I occasionally work, Mayors Abby Binay and Vico Sotto should be reelected. As a professor of the College of Law of the University of Makati, I have seen and benefited first hand from the hands-on governance style of Mayor Binay. And yes, as his teacher and former boss in the Ateneo School of Government, Vico has exceeded all expectations as local chief executive. I think we know where Vico will end up a few years from now and Pasig is a training ground for that future national role. How lucky the citizens of Pasig that they got the first taste of this young man’s leadership style. For Opol in Misamis Oriental, whose beaches I frequent and love, I endorse the young lawyer Jay Bago. It is a municipality which needs dynamic leadership and Jay can deliver that as my friend Dixon Yasay did that years ago. For Alcala, Cagayan, I of course endorse Mayor Tin Antonio - my student, my fellow Ateneo de Manila philosophy major, spouse of my UP Law contemporary Joel Butuyan, and fellow human rights lawyer. Tin will soon also rise to higher positions in the province and in the country. I am excited to see that. For Vice Mayor of Caloocan City, I endorse strongly Anna Karina The. I have known Karina since she was a child and I am amazed at how she has matured as a progressive government official. Karina is not just the future of Caloocan but – like Vico, Tin, Joy, and Jay - of the Philippines. For provincial governors, I endorse Peter Unabia, a fellow Jesuit Volunteer, for Misamis Oriental and Kaka Bag-ao, a fellow alternative lawyer, for Dinagat Islands. I will make other endorsements in the future, especially of former students from the Ateneo School of Government and the many law schools I teach in. We do not lack good leaders in this country. That I am sure of. Website: tonylavina.com Facebook: deantonylavs Twitter: tonylavs done — among them Aya Salih, who runs the Safraty travel agency with her husband. The government “has authorised visas on arrival, but everything else is still complicated,” she said. “Half of the trip is wasted at roadblocks even though we have the necessary permits.” Some visitors love the more edgy, authentic travel experience. “I like to go to places that are not so touristy yet,” said Emma Witters, 54, who has over 70,000 subscribers on her YouTube channel. After so much war and isolation, she said, “you would think that they would be unhappy, miserable people. But they are so happy to see people and foreigners, they are so generous.” AFP

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

Associate Editors News Editor City Editor

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World

TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2022 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Give up or die: Ghost village tries to push back Russians RUSSIAN snipers are still targeting the deserted crossroads into the village of Stoyanka, but Andrii Ostapets hopes to bring food to his neighbors – and to his cats, if they are still alive. The 69-year-old private museum owner has returned one week after fleeing the village on Kyiv’s western edge, having heard that Ukrainian troops were driving back Moscow’s forces. “We saw people killed, we saw burnt down houses, we lived through hell” when Russia occupied the village, says Ostapets, protected from the biting cold by a thick leather jacket. “Yesterday they pushed them back from our farm. The Russians have no chance to stay alive – they can either surrender or die.” A bitter wind whips through Stoyanka, which has been turned into a ghost village after nearly a month on the western frontline of Russia’s attempt to encircle the Ukrainian capital.

The sound of shelling still booms from the low forested hills that surround the village – where Ukrainian defense volunteer forces say Russian snipers are lurking. Gunfire crackles at a distance. The fighting continues despite Moscow signaling on Friday that it had scaled down the aims of its month-old invasion of Ukraine, focusing now on the eastern Donbas area. Ukraine says it is pushing back the stalled Russian advance on Kyiv in areas such as Stoyanka, just half a kilometer (about 500 yards) from the western city limits. “I have a full car of groceries, the people and pets who stayed there, we’ll bring them food,” says Ostapets. “We are waiting for permission and we will go save those alive.” Most of the houses on the approach to Stoyanka appear to be empty, and some have been destroyed by shelling. AFP

LIVING ON A PRAYER. A youth lights candles during a Sunday mass at Saints Peter and Paul Garrison Catholic Church in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv on March 27, 2022. AFP

UKRAINE, RUSSIA TO HOLD 3-DAY TALKS IN ISTANBUL

Face-to-face peace negotiations resume Millions under R lockdown anew USSIA and Ukraine will restart face-to-face peace negotiations on Monday, amid warnings that the situation in the besieged city of Mariupol was now “catastrophic”. President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the resumption of over-the-table talks, saying they must bring peace “without delay” and signaling a willingness to compromise on the most sensitive topics. The two sides have not met in person in weeks, but will hold three days of talks in Istanbul from Monday, according to David Arakhamia, a Ukrainian negotiator, lawmaker and

Zelensky ally. Several rounds of talks have already failed to end the war sparked by the Russian invasion, which is now in its second month. About 20,000 people have been killed, according to Zelensky, 10 million have fled their homes and despite Russian military setbacks, several cities are still coming under withering

bombardment. In the southern port city of Mariupol, about 170,000 civilians are encircled by Russian forces, with ever-dwindling supplies of food, water and medicine. Ukraine’s foreign ministry said the situation there was “catastrophic” and the assault from land, sea and air had turned the once-thriving city of 450,000 people “into dust.” France, Greece and Turkey are hoping to launch a mass evacuation of civilians within days, according to French President Emmanuel Macron, who has sought an agreement from Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.

With Russia’s much-larger military hampered and humbled by fierce Ukrainian resistance, the Istanbul talks will test whether battlefield setbacks have tempered Moscow’s demands. Moscow was recently forced to abandon its efforts to capture Kyiv, and – according to senior Russian general Sergei Rudskoi – focus on the “main goal” of controlling the eastern Donbas region. The fate of Russian-occupied Donbas and Crimea, as well as fundamental disagreements about Kyiv’s alignment with the West are again set to be the focus of negotiations. AFP

Myanmar’s Suu Kyi ‘in quarantine’ after staff tests positive for COVID DETAINED former Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi has skipped three days of her trial in a junta court after COVID-19 was detected among her staff and she was placed in quarantine, a source with knowledge of the case said Monday. The 76-year-old’s civilian government was ousted in a coup last year that triggered mass protests, and she faces a raft of charges that could see her jailed for more than 150 years. Currently on trial for alleged corruption, breaching Myanmar’s official secrets act and pressuring the election commission, Suu Kyi has not appeared in court since last Thursday, the legal source told AFP. “Some people in her company have been infected by COVID-19... and so she’s kept in quarantine, although she’s not infected,” the source said. “We are worried because we haven’t been able to see her.”

Former president Win Myint – charged alongside Suu Kyi – appeared at the court on Monday via video conferencing, the source added. Suu Kyi and her personal staff have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 since being taken into military custody, her lawyer told AFP last July. She missed a hearing in September due to illness, and in October, her lawyer said her health had suffered from her frequent appearances before the junta-run court. Journalists are barred from the proceedings in the military-built capital Naypyidaw, and her lawyers have been banned from speaking to the press. Suu Kyi was previously sentenced to a total six years in jail for incitement against the military, breaching COVID-19 rules and breaking a telecommunications law – although she remains under house arrest while she fights other charges. AFP

SAKURA EVERYWHERE. A woman kisses a young girl on a pedestrian bridge

over the Edo River surrounded by fully-blossoming cherry trees in Tokyo on March 28, 2022. AFP

Blinken, Arab ministers hold unprecedented meeting in Israel US SECRETARY of State Antony meeting Monday to discuss issues from Blinken and the top diplomats of Israel the Iran nuclear negotiations to the and four Arab states held a landmark global shockwaves ofRussia’s invasion of Ukraine. The talks brought together for Finding the petition to be sufficient REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES in form and substance, notice is REGIONAL TRIAL COURT the first time on Israeli soil the NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION hereby given that said petition is foreign ministers of the United hereby set for hearing on April 20, BRANCH 217 – QUEZON CITY 2022 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Mortc1qzn217@judiciary.gov.ph before this Court located at Room 604, Sixth Floor, Hall of Justice – rocco – which all normalized ties IN RE: PETITION FOR JUDICIAL Annex, Diliman, Quezon City at which RECOGNITION OF FOREIGN with the Jewish state in 2020 – place and on which date and time, DIVORCE AND DECLARATION OF any person who has been objections and of Egypt, which made peace CAPACITY TO REMARRY UNDER to the petition may appear and file his ARTICLE 26, FAMILY CODE. with Israel in 1979. opposition thereto. CHERRY MOYA MONTESA a.k.a. Its late-Sunday opening, in the Let copy of this Fourth Order “CHERRY MONTESA HORIUCHI”, be published at the expense of the Sde Boker kibbutz deep in the Petitioner, petitioner, once a week for three (3) -versusCIVIL CASE NO. Negev desert, was marred by a consecutive weeks in a newspaper R-QZN-20-01620-CV of general circulation throughout the shooting attack in northern Israel For: Judicial Recognition of Foreign Philippines. Likewise, let a copy of Divorce and Declaration of Capacity to the petition with its annexes and this Remarry Order be furnished to the Office of the NATIONAL STATISTICIAN AND Solicitor General, Office of the City CIVIL REGISTRAR GENERAL OF Prosecutor of Quezon City, Office of the Local Civil Registrar of Quezon THE PHILIPPINE STATISTICS City, Philippine Statistics Authority, AUTHORITY AND KOJI HORIUCHI, Quezon City and be posted in the Respondent. Bulletin Board of the Office of the x-----------------------------------------------x Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court, ORDER This is a verified petition filed by Quezon City. Cherry Moya Montesa a.k.a. Cherry SO ORDERED. Montesa Horiuchi praying for the the Quezon City, Philippines, 28 judicial recognition of foreign judgment December 2021. of divorce obtained in Japan and (Sgd.) DOLLY ROSE R. BOLANTE-PRADO declare her as capacitated to remarry Acting Presiding Judge under Article 26, 2nd paragraph of the Cc: Family Code. Atty. Lorenzo U. Padilla Petitioner alleges that she got married to Koji Horiuchi on February 4, 2000 in Japan; that petitioner and Koji was blessed with a daughter Mika who was born on December 12, 2000; that on February 25, 2004, at the instance and insistence of Koji, they were divorced; that the divorce was an absolute one and capacitated Koji, they were divorced; that the divorce is attested by the Divorce Certificate No. IB19-06222-20 issued for the ConsulGeneral for Japan by one Consul Matsumoto Masumi of the Japanese Consulate-General in the Philippines; that petitioner is now seeking that the foreign divorce decree obtained by Koji Horiuchi in Japan be judicially recognized.

Counsel for the petitioner No. 62 (KSP Unit) Don Benito Hernandez Avenue Pasay City, Metro Manila lupadilla5@gmail.com Office of the Solicitor General Makati City Office of the City Prosecutor Quezon City Office of the Local Civil Registrar Quezon City Philippine Statistics Authority Quezon City Koji Horiuchi 19-1 Idonocho, Yamatokoriyamashi, Nara Ken, Japan Postal Code 639-1104 (MStandard - Mar. 29, Apr. 5 & 12, 2022)

that killed two police officers and was claimed by the Islamic State group, which has rarely managed to stage attacks inside Israel. And early Monday, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett’s office confirmed he had caught Covid, a day after he held closed-door meetings with Blinken, followed by a joint press conference without masks. The State Department said Blinken, who was out jogging in the Negev early Monday, was the only member of the US delegation considered a “close contact” of Bennett’s and that he would follow public health guidelines “including

by masking and undergoing appropriate testing.” The Negev meeting takes place as the United States and European allies have expressed quiet frustration that Middle East countries generally have not shown strong support for efforts to back Ukraine following Russia’s invasion and have not distanced themselves from Moscow. But Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas rebuffed any pressure to criticize Russia, instead castigating the West for “double standards” that he said penalized Moscow while ignoring Israel’s “crimes” against the Palestinians. AFP

in Shanghai

MILLIONS of people in China’s financial hub were confined to their homes on Monday as the eastern half of Shanghai went into lockdown to curb the country’s biggest ongoing COVID-19 outbreak. The move, announced late Sunday, caused a grocery run by residents who have become exasperated with authorities’ inability to snuff out the outbreak despite nearly three weeks of increasingly disruptive measures. Authorities are imposing a twophase lockdown of the city of about 25 million people to carry out mass testing. The government had sought to avoid the hard lockdowns regularly deployed in other Chinese cities, opting instead for rolling localized lockdowns to keep Shanghai’s economy running. But Shanghai has in recent weeks become China’s COVID hotspot, and on Monday another record high was reported, with 3,500 new confirmed cases in the city. The area locked down on Monday is the sprawling eastern district known as Pudong, which includes the main international airport and glittering financial center. The lockdown will last until Friday, then switch to the more populated western Puxi section, home to the historic Bund riverfront. The government said the steps were being taken to root out infections “as soon as possible.” The unpredictable neighborhoodlevel measures employed in recent weeks have left many citizens frustrated with repeated brief confinements at home. Some complained Monday that only several hours’ notice was given for the new, larger lockdown. “We really don’t understand Shanghai’s management and control measures. There has indeed been some inconsistency,” said a 59-year-old man who gave only his surname Cao as he queued to buy groceries. “After so much time, (the city) is not controlling the virus and the numbers are still going up.” AFP

Taliban bans Afghan women without male relative from boarding flights THE Taliban have ordered airlines in Afghanistan to stop women from boarding flights unless accompanied by a male relative, aviation officials told AFP. The latest restriction on women follows Wednesday’s shutdown of all girls’ secondary schools just hours after they were allowed to reopen for the first time since the hardline Islamists seized power in August. Two officials from Afghanistan’s Ariana Afghan airline and Kam Air said late on Sunday that the Taliban had ordered them to stop boarding women if they were traveling alone. The decision was taken after a meeting on Thursday between representa-

tives of the Taliban, the two airlines and airport immigration authorities, the officials told AFP, asking not to be named. Since the Taliban’s return to power, many curbs on women’s freedoms have been reintroduced – often implemented locally at the whim of regional officials from the Ministry for Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice. The ministry said it had not issued any directive banning women from taking flights alone. But a letter issued by a senior official of Ariana Afghan to the airline’s staff after the meeting with the Taliban, a copy of which was obtained by AFP, confirmed the new measure. AFP

MAN VS. MACHINE. Commuters watch as their train was blocked by leftist activists at a railway station during a nationwide general strike against the policies of the central government in Kolkata on March 28, 2022. AFP

Business

TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2022 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

Market ends flat; URC, SPNEC slightly up TOP GAINERS S PSEi March 28, 2022

1 DWC 2 ECP 3 PAL

LAST PRICE CHANGE 1.97 0.37 4.44 0.39 6.61 0.56

% CHANGE 23.13% 9.63% 9.26%

4 5 6

IPO FDC SSP

7.23 7.19 1.1

0.53 0.4 0.06

7.91% 5.89% 5.77%

MEDIC

0.92

0.05

5.75%

8 9 10

PGOLD TCB2A SFI

34.7 1.03 0.105

1.75 0.05 0.005

5.31% 5.10% 5.00%

HARE prices closed virtually flat Monday with traders hoping for progress in ceasefire talks between Russia and Ukraine this week.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index added 9.52 points, or 0.1 percent, to 7,134.36 on a value turnover of P5.2 billion. Losers, however, beat gainers, 94 to 77, with 55 issues unchanged. Universal Robina Corp., the biggest snack food maker, rose 1 percent to P118.20, while Solar Philippine Nueva Ecija Corp., which is building the biggest solar farm in Southeast Asia, also climbed 1 percent to P2.02. International Container Terminal Services Inc., the largest port operator and owned by tycoon Enrique Razon Jr.,

however, fell 2.7 percent to P218, while conglomerate Ayala Corp. of the Ayala Group declined 1.4 percent to P806. The rest of Asian stock markets mostly rose Monday, though gains were tempered by a phased lockdown in Shanghai that led to fresh concerns about already strained supply chains. Growing expectations that the Federal Reserve will become increasingly aggressive in its drive to bring down inflation continue to dampen sentiment, with Treasury yields—a gauge of future interest rates—surging.

Asian equity markets were largely higher, with Hong Kong rebounding more than one percent after suffering hefty losses Friday, while Shanghai ended slightly higher. Sydney, Singapore, Bangkok and Jakarta were also on the front foot, though Tokyo, Taipei and Wellington fell. Seoul and Mumbai were flat. With the war in Ukraine now in its second month, investors are hoping the two sides will be able to make inroads on ending the crisis when they meet in Turkey, either on Monday or Tuesday. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said he hoped they would bring peace “without delay,” despite several previous rounds failing to overcome disagreements about Kyiv’s alignment

Guinea signs $15-b deal for vast iron mine with Rio Tinto

TOP LOSERS 1 KPPI 2 VVT 3 OPM

LAST PRICE CHANGE 2.34 -0.41 14.14 -2.16 0.011 -0.001

% CHANGE -14.91% -13.25% -8.33%

4 5 6 7

EEI ATN ACR X

5.6 0.6 1.01 0.325

-0.4 -0.03 -0.05 -0.015

-6.67% -4.76% -4.72% -4.41%

5.45

-0.24

-4.22%

9 10

OV HOUSE

0.0091 13.34

-0.0004 -0.54

-4.21% -3.89%

MOST ACTIVE

HUAWEI REPORT. Huawei chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou (left) and rotating chairman Guo Ping arrive for the Huawei

1 CNVRG 2 SPNEC

VOLUME VALUE (PHP) 17,385,600 498,569,075 246,204,000 476,595,400

3 4

SM URC

301,460 2,213,740

268,929,085 260,957,902

By Poornima Weerasekara with Dessy Sagita in Jakarta

ICT

1,111,500

244,231,902

6 7 8 9

AC SMPH SCC ALI

257,020 5,359,600 6,017,900 5,011,300

206,272,515 201,382,325 193,502,820 179,929,790

BDO

1,189,190

156,170,690

BEIJING, China—The play by Xiang Guangda, China’s “Nickel King,” was to use his influential market position to short the metal, wait for the price to drop, then soak up the rewards when the value bounced back. But then Russian President Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine and things got complicated—fast. Russia is one of the world’s biggest producers of nickel ore, a key component of batteries for electric vehicles. As concussive Western sanctions over the invasion struck, the price of the silver-white metal rocketed to a record above $100,000 per ton. That was too high for Xiang and the entire metals sector, forcing the 145-year-old London Metals Exchange (LME) to suspend trading for a week and leaving nickel-reliant manufacturers struggling to digest the spike in costs. Stuck in its positions—reports estimate it was holding at least 100,000 tons—Xiang’s company Tsingshan Holdings Group was suddenly on the hook for billions of dollars. Tsingshan, the world’s biggest nickel producer, has been forced to buy back a large number of nickel contracts at higher prices to reduce its exposure. A Bloomberg News report estimates the buy-back has contributed to a loss of $8 billion, suggesting the firm may

Heineken exits Russia in wake of Ukraine war THE HAGUE, Netherlands—Dutch brewer Heineken announced on Monday it was pulling out of Russia, becoming the latest Western firm to exit the country in the wake of Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. The beer company had already halted the sale and production of its Heineken brand in Russia, as well as suspended new investments and exports to the country earlier this month. “We are shocked and deeply saddened to watch the war in Ukraine continue to unfold and intensify,” Heineken said in a statement. “Following the previously announced strategic review of our operations, we have concluded that Heineken’s ownership of the business in Russia is no longer sustainable nor viable in the current environment,” the statement said. “As a result, we have decided to leave Russia.” Heineken said it would aim for an “orderly transfer” of its business to a new owner in compliance with international and local laws and would not take any profit from the transaction, which will cost the company 400 million euros ($438 million) in exceptional charges. The company said it would continue on reduced operations during a transition period to reduce the risk of nationalization and “ensure the ongoing safety and wellbeing of our employees.” “In all circumstances we guarantee the salaries of our 1,800 employees will be paid to the end of 2022 and will do our utmost to safeguard their future employment.” Hundreds of Western firms have closed shops and offices in Russia since the war started, a list that includes famous names such as Ikea, Coca-Cola and MacDonald’s. AFP

with the West and Russia’s occupation of eastern parts of the country. But there is a hope that Moscow could be willing to de-escalate as its troops struggle to break dogged resistance from its much smaller opponent. Zelensky has previously indicated he is “carefully” considering a Russian demand of Ukrainian “neutrality.” Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the February invasion to destroy Ukraine’s military and topple the proWestern Zelensky, bringing the country under Moscow’s sway. But senior general Sergei Rudskoi suggested a considerably reduced “main goal” of controlling Donbas, an eastern region already partly held by Russian proxies. With AFP

2021 Annual Report Press Conference in Shenzhen, in China’s southern Guangdong province on March 28, 2022. AFP

How Putin invasion left ‘Nickel King’ on hook for billions

IGNATIUS GAN

Green Light THOUGHTS on Creativity, spurred by Rosanne Araneta (https://rosannearaneta.com/) When I was a kid, we had a full set of art supplies at home. Perhaps because my mom was a Fine Arts graduate, or when I go to the toy store or the bookstore, I head towards the art supplies more than the other things around. I remember drawing cityscapes, making clay dioramas of people getting married, making handmade greeting cards for every occasion possible. I remember all of these things—Idon’t remember when I stopped doing them. Retracing my creative path In one of our classes in Integral Human Development, we had the chance to explore our creative selves through a workshop conducted by the energetic Rosanne Araneta. In the span of less than two hours, we were able to create over 60 things with a piece of paper, over 200 iterations of a circle, and over a dozen drawings of

This file photo taken on February 25, 2021 shows nickel sheets at Kola Mining and Metallurgical Company (Kola MMC), a unit of Russia’s metals and mining company Nornickel, in the town of Monchegorsk in Russia’s Murmansk region. AFP

need a possible bailout by Chinese authorities. “Xiang is a shrewd player, but he was caught off guard with the Russian issue,” Li Bin, a nickel trader in Shanghai said. When nickel trading resumed last week prices plunged to about $37,200 a ton—still 50 percent higher than in February—as volatility courses through the market. “After the historic squeeze, nickel is still struggling to find a price,” Susan Zou, senior metals analyst at Rystad Energy said.

Self-made tycoon The market for nickel, essential to make batteries for EVs and a key alloy in stainless steel, is dominated by a handful of players. Those include Tsingshan, headquartered on China’s eastern seaboard. It was founded by Xiang, a selfmade billionaire who is known among Chinese nickel traders as the “Nickel King” and “Big Shot.” Xiang started his career as a mechanic in a state fishery and now owns two sprawling nickel manufacturing hubs in Indonesia. AFP

Letting your creative flag fly a 3D hand. In a group of a little over 20 people, we were able to create so many things out of mere imagination, inspiration or creative talent. Steve Jobs said you “can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward.” This was what the activities felt like. There was undeniable energy of creativity within the class, a sense that I never felt from people I have for over two years of going through this program (and counting). I am not certain of this, but I know that many have either lost the will to be creative or lost the creative process due to a lack of time and inspiration. One thing is for sure—we all needed to take that time away to understand and appreciate our creative dimensions. Why we let go of creativity Throughout the entire experience during the workshop and even days after having gone through it, I’ve been thinking about when I lost the will to express my creative side. During my elementary schooling

days, I thought that only those who can draw straight lines and clean drawings get the mark of an “artist,” but lo and behold, the most celebrated (and even the most expensive) art on the auction block were mostly abstract. Take Mark Rothko, whose painting №6 (Violet, Green, and Red) got the gavel dropping price of US$186 million. You can see a photo of this painting on this website: https://www.markrothko.org/no-6-violet-green-and-red/. I can read what’s on your mind right now. It says, “I can do that.” I joined the Spanish Club. I can only say, “Can I see it in red?” (Puedo ver ese rojo?) but building on my creativity was a missed chance. Once I finished my degree, I thought that that was the end of my creative pursuits. I’m now just learning, in grad school of all places, while pursuing an MBA, that the creativity train has not left the station yet. Passion for passion’s sake I’m not a big fan of making a commitment, but I think that when you have

CONARKY, Guniea—Guinea’s ruling junta has reached a $15-billion deal with Rio Tinto and an Asian-Guinean consortium to exploit the vast Simandou iron ore deposit in the southeast, public television announced. The three-way deal, signed late Friday, has a 35-year duration for codevelopment by Anglo-Australian mining giant Rio Tinto and the Singapore-led Winning Consortium. Guinea has stunning mineral wealth, including the world’s biggest untapped deposits of high-quality iron ore. But the West African state remains mired in poverty and saddled with a reputation for corruption. Blocks 1 and 2 of the Simandou deposit were attributed to the Winning Consortium and Blocks 3 and 4 to Rio Tinto. Rio Tinto is allied with Chinese aluminum corporation Chinalco in a joint venture to exploit the deposit and Singapore’s Winning Shipping with Chinese aluminum producer Shandong Weiqiao, the Yantai Port Group and Guinean company United Mining Supply. The Simandou site holds one of the biggest deposits of iron ore in the world. Development has previously been hampered for years by disputes over mining rights, suspicions of corruption and the scale of investment required in a landlocked region and a country that is woefully lacking in infrastructure. Earlier this month Guinea’s junta ordered a freeze on all activity at the site, saying work there should uphold the country’s interests. The new contract covers “infrastructure, mining development, the port,” according to Fadi Wazni, head of the Winning Consortium, speaking to the Guinean public broadcaster RTG. It provides for the construction of a 670-kilometer (415-mile) railway to link between the mining area and a port on the Guinean coast south of Conakry. The railway and deepwater port are expected to be completed by December 2024, according to the terms of the agreement announced on RTG. The first commercial production is expected by March 2025 at the latest. AFP a creative idea, and you’re more than halfway there, you should put it out to the rest of the world so that it can be consumed. Halfway through a major career change, a couple of friends recommended that I should start a podcast about anything and everything that I have to say about life. They say that they want to see me (or rather, hear me) talk about what it is that I can share with the world. Luckily, a very close friend agreed to be my co-host, and an award-winning producer agreed to edit it for us. If we’re going with anything on creativity, then let’s start with ourselves. The podcast is called “How to be 30,” and it will be where podcasts come to live sometime in 2022. #Howtobe30 The author is an MBA student at the Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business, DLSU. He can be reached at ignatius_gan@dlsu.edu.ph. The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.

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

TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2022

Office space demand hits 124,000 sqm By Jenniffer B. Austria DEMAND for office space remained robust in the first quarter despite the spike of COVID-19 cases in January due to the Omicron variant and the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war in February and March. Leechiu Property Consultants chief executive David Leechiu said in a news briefing Philippine office demand in the first three months reached 124,000 square meters. Leechiu said some 360,000 sq. m. of office leasing requirements were expected to be completed within the next six months. “Despite an anti-climactic first quarter, we remain optimistic that the property market led by the office sector will bounce back this year—barring any more extraordinary events,” Leechiu said. “As the economy opens up, we look forward to improvements in office demand, capital values and rents. We believe the real estate industry will have a good story to tell in 2022,” he said. The information technology-business process management sector continued to lead demand in the first quarter and accounted for 35,000 sq. m. Office vacancy rate across Metro Manila averaged 19 percent, with BGC and Makati registering lower rates. Leechiu said the moves to have a hybrid work arrangement could have an impact on the demand for office space moving forward. He predicted that a big chunk of companies would terminate their leases three years from now if a hybrid work set up will continue to be adopted. He said that if many companies would find stability in going back to the office, a sudden surge in demand for office space would be expected as IT-BPM firms were also aggressively hiring employees while taking little real estate.

Business Meralco plans over P150-b capital spending in 4 years By Alena Mae S. Flores

ANILA Electric Co., the biggest electricity retailer, plans to spend more than P150 billion from 2023 to 2026 to augment the capacity of its network and replace aging assets, documents showed Monday. Meralco filed an application for the fifth regulatory period with the Energy Regulatory Commission to allocate P152 billion in capital expenditures over the four-year period, including the budget for projects under construction. The company said it was planning to allocate capex of P37.534 billion in 2023, P43.49 billion in 2024, P36.374 billion in

2025 and P32.249 billion in 2026. It said if the capex included construction work in progress, the capex would be slightly higher at P38.237 billion in 2023, P44.378 billion in 2024, P37.052 billion in 2025 and P32.82 billion in 2026. The company said the expenditures were necessary to augment the capacity of the network to meet demand growth or new customer requirements, and replace or refurbish aging and obsolete assets. The budget will also be spent to relocate assets for the implementation of government infrastructure and third-party initiated projects and to purchase and construct non-network assets required for the normal efficient operation of the electric distribution system. It will also be used to deploy automation and technology projects and innovative solutions for various electrification projects and to comply with regulatory requirements and other relevant rules and regulations with emphasis on maintaining the integrity, reliability and efficiency of

the electric system. It will also support the continuous improvement in service quality and performance measurement for the benefit of the consumers. Meralco said that because of delays in project implementation, several major capex projects were tagged as “carryover.” Such projects, while essential for the improvement of Meralco’s operations, were pushed back over difficulties such as the pandemic restrictions. These projects are slated to be commissioned by 2023 and 2024 and will be part of the 5RP regulatory asset base computations. Meralco sought approval for the carryover projects amounting P12.358 billion to P12.606 billion in 2024 and P3.553 billion to P3.633 billion in 2024. Meralco also proposed the implementation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure program for more than 2 million customers aligned with the objective of deploying a reliable, efficient and intelligent distribution grid.

LEED GOLD CERTIFICATION. Metro Pacific Tollways South Management Corp., a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corp., the toll road development arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corp., is awarded an LEED Gold certification for its headquarters MPT South Hub. LEED, or Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, is a globally recognized symbol of excellence in green building. Receiving the award from Green Business Certification Inc. is MPIC chairman and president Manuel Pangilinan (front row, fourth from left), with MPTC president and chief executive Rodrigo Franco, chief finance officer and senior executive sponsor Christopher Lizo and MPT South president and general Manager Roberto Bontia. Roy Tomandao

IN BRIEF GrowSari raises another $77.5m

E-COMMERCE start-up GrowSari, in partnership with International Finance Corp., raised another $77.5 million in fresh capital from its Series C offering to help informal retailers, especially women, to gain access and bigger exposure to the supply chain. GrowSari co-founder and chief executive Reymund Rollan said the recent fundraiser brought total funding to about $110 million, the largest amount raised in the business-tobusiness and MSME space in the Philippines and in the region. “We are very grateful for the confidence shown by existing and new investors as we try to transform the MSME space in the Philippines. Not only will this funding allow us to fuel our growth, but this will also help us bring top global quality talent in operations, technology, and data science into the startup ecosystem of the Philippines,” he said. Othel V. Campos

BDO declares 20% stock dividend

BDO Unibank Inc. said its board of directors approved the declaration of stock dividends equivalent to 20 percent of the bank’s outstanding capital stock and an increase in its authorized capital stock (common shares) from 5.5 billion to 8.5 billion shares. The board also approved the amendment to the bank’s articles of incorporation to reflect the increase. These will be presented and endorsed for approval to stockholders at the bank’s annual shareholders’ meeting to be held virtually on April 22. BDO said the stock dividend declaration is a testament to the bank’s commitment to continue investing in the business and provide consistent, steady returns and value to its shareholders. Shareholders will gain additional shares which they can keep for the long-haul and grow in value, or in case they need liquidity, sell through the stock market at their discretion.

PSE launches two new indices

THE Philippine Stock Exchange Inc. launched the PSE MidCap Index and PSE Dividend Yield Index on Monday to showcase the midsized companies and highlight those that consistently give high-yielding dividends. “Ever since, we only have the main composite, all shares and sectoral indices in the PSE. These thematic indices are long overdue and we are pleased to finally make available the first two sets of new indices,” said PSE president and chief executive Ramon Monzon. “In developing these indices, we consulted with market participants to ensure that the selection criteria and methodology are acceptable to those who want to track or benchmark on the new indices,” Monzon said. Both indices have 20 constituents and the index members as of the February 2022 recomposition stemmed from a review of companies from January to December 2021. The base date and base level for both indices is Dec. 30, 2010 at 1,000.

Transitioning to Renewable Energy: Stakeholders play vital role in decarbonizing our planet Abundant geothermal resource in PH key in providing 24/7 clean, 100% renewable energy By Peter Paul Duran WE’VE been taught since primary school that with human ingenuity, great things can be accomplished. One such marvel of innovation is the ability to harness energy from natural resources. But majority of the resources humans use to power everyday life have a finite supply. Enter renewable energy (RE), where technology has improved by leaps and bounds in recent years to enable stakeholders to harness power from solar, wind, geothermal, and hydro sources without the worry of ever running out. As per the US Energy Information Administration, there are five different forms of RE, namely Biomass, Hydropower, Geothermal, Wind, and Solar. Let’s zoom in on geothermal for a quick second and what makes it different compared to other RE technologies. Geothermal energy has the ability to provide reliable, stable baseload power, according to the Energy Development Corporation, the world’s largest vertically integrated geothermal producer and the country’s leading 100% renewable energy company. While energy harnessed from Solar, Wind and Hydro resources all help in decarbonizing the grid, there is intermittency and seasonality of supply. Efficiency is key in any RE technology and being a reliable 24/7 source of clean and renewable energy has little to no drawbacks compared to solar power, which is reliant on the assurance of a sunny day or wind/ hydro where seasonal changes may affect energy production. And when it comes to all matters geothermal, there’s no entity better at it than EDC, which has been championing clean energy for close to half a century. “EDC has been utilizing the Philippines’ vast geothermal resources for 45 years now,” said EDC Corporate Relations and Communications Head Allan V. Barcena.” “Geothermal is superior to nonRE power sources since it provides a reliable 24/7 supply of clean, renewable energy with low carbon

100% green power that empowers. Through EDC’s Green Core Geothermal, Inc. and BacMan Geothermal, Inc., power consumers with a monthly average peak demand of at least 100 kilowatts (KW) for the past twelve (12) months can now shift to renewable energy to lower their own carbon footprint and even their electricity cost.

emissions—Geo 24/7 to us, in EDC. The company’s initiatives in providing business consumers with clean and sustainable energy from its roster of 100 percent clean and renewable energy (RE) facilities compliments the Philippines’ movement toward a decarbonized and regenerative future,” he added. EDC recognizes the critical nature of humanity’s predicament on a globe that continues to collect more heattrapping carbon dioxide. In this condition, progressive efforts to repair the world’s resources are no longer sufficient to reverse the alarming trend, not if more hands are on deck. EDC’s goal is to work with like-minded businesses, organizations, and individuals that are motivated not only to bring economic gains and development but also to help keep the environment sustainable by assisting them in making the transition to renewable energy (RE). This echoes the thrust of the whole company which EDC Chairman Federico Lopez drumbeats in all things they do and

is embodied in their new mission “to forge collaborative pathways for a decarbonized and regenerative future.” “There is a need for businesses to elevate everything we touch—our customers; co-creators such as employees, suppliers, and contractors; the environment; communities, and, investors,” Lopez explained He added that the urgency of the problem requires “all of us to go beyond incremental sustainability and transform into regenerative forces that align our profit engines with the need for a better world and a safer planet.” Lopez emphasized that the implications of neglecting the problem might be catastrophic; increasing global temperatures could unleash problems considerably worse than the current Covid-19 pandemic’s impact on humans. Massive glaciers at the North Pole and in Antarctica, for example, will irrevocably melt, transforming low-lying cities like Metro Manila into “Waterworlds.” As the waters warm, typhoons considerably

greater and deadlier than “Yolanda” will become more frequent. Part of its commitment to be a part of the solution to climate change is its efforts to plant, cultivate and keep lush forests in its operating areas. This is how EDC sustains its Geo 24/7 promise. In 2008, EDC, led by Chairman Emeritus Oscar M. Lopez, stepped up its reforestation efforts by launching the BINHI greening legacy program, which aims to close forest gaps and restore abundance to 96 vulnerable Philippine native tree species. BINHI has gone beyond recovering forests at EDC’s geothermal sites with the support of more than 191 partners and 88 farmers’ associations across the country. Since 2009, the BINHI initiative has reforested about 10,000 hectares in geothermal areas, with over 6.4 million BINHI seedlings planted in restoration operations with 88 associated forest communities. Consequently, EDC has become a carbon negative company as a result of its 100% renewable energy portfolio and its vast reforestation efforts

through the BINHI program, which means that the limited CO2 emitted by its operations was offset by all the CO2 absorbed by reforested watersheds. This makes EDC create shared value among its power customers, especially among the business sector, by helping them decarbonize their own operations. The power market has been rapidly changing as a result of the Department of Energy’s efforts to green the electricity grid through programs such as the Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS), Retail Competition and Open Access (RCOA), and now, the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP), as well as its announced moratorium on new coal-fired power generation. GEOP gives consumers with at least 100KW of monthly average peak demand for the past 12 months to pick their own RE source and purchase it directly from licensed GEOP providers. This enables contestable consumers to reduce their business or institution’s carbon footprint while also lowering their power costs. Shifting to GEOP through EDC’s Geo 24/7 will allow consumers to become one of the company’s regenerative partners who can benefit from valueadded services such as involvement in its BINHI and other CSR initiatives, as well as clean, efficient, cost-competitive renewable energy. According to EDC, businesses can now take a stand for the environment by freely selecting where to buy electricity, thus reducing their carbon footprint as a contribution to combating climate change. But EDC is not stopping there. It shares that in due time, the company is pursuing a program to create new hydro, solar, and wind power plants in the nation, as well as beef up its already established geothermal facilities both here and abroad, EDC says they will continue to collaborate with organizations to share their goal and mission to fight climate change by transitioning to renewable energy. Find out more about shifting to a decarbonized business by getting power from EDC’s Geo 24/7 through https:// www.energy.com.ph/shift-to-renewableenergy.

Sports

Pirates, Blazers seek 1st NCAA wins

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Randy M. Caluag, Assistant Editor TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2022

Games today (La Salle Green Hills Gym) 12 noon – JRU vs Perpetual 3 p.m. – LPU vs CSB

SEASON host College of St. Benilde and Lyceum of the Philippines University shoot for their first win in the NCAA Season 97 men’s basketball tournament today at the La Salle Green Hills Gym. Coming off an opening-day defeat to defending champion Letran, CSB rookie coach Charles Tiu is hoping for the Blazers to produce a better effort in their 3 p.m. clash with the Pirates. Against the Knights, CSB had a good start and led by as much as 12 points before dropping a 63-67 loss in last Saturday’s inaugurals. “Positive is we were able to compete but we are not happy with the result. We were outworked and that was unacceptable,” said Tiu. The Blazers, who will bank on big man AJ Benson, Carlo Lim, Robi Nayve and transferee Will Gozum, are looking first on what lies on the table. “Just reminding them to focus one game at a time. Not looking past Lyceum at all,” said Tiu. “And for other guys to step up since we have some injured players.” The Pirates, on the other hand, looked like a shadow of the team that made it to the Finals in 2017 and 2018. Now under neophyte coach Gilbert Malabanan, LPU opened its campaign with a 76-84 loss to a San Beda side still looking solid even without a foreign studentathlete last Saturday. Enoch Valdez, Enzo Navarro and Jerwyn Guinto churned out double-digit numbers for the Pirates, who are hoping to have rookie Mac Guadaña to deliver more after only scoring two points in his college debut. Jose Rizal University and University of Perpetual Help System Dalta, two teams will make their Season 97 debut, collide in the 12 noon curtain raiser. Under new broadcast partner GMA, the games are aired live on GTV channel 11.

At the forefront of the Philippines’ BMX Racing campaign is Daniel Caluag (right), a London 2012 Olympian and the country’s lone gold medalist at the Incheon 2014 Asian Games.

Tagaytay City to host 2023 Asian BMX Championships

ORLD-CLASS cycling action returns to the Philippines when Tagaytay City hosts the 2023 Asian BMX Championships and Asian Junior BMX Championships for Racing and Freestyle from March 3 to 6 at the International Cycling Union-standard BMX track and at the Tagaytay City International Convention Center complex.

The Asian Cycling Confederation announced during its Annual Congress in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on Sunday the granting of the hosting rights to the Philippines through the Integrated Cycling Federation of the Philippines. “We thank the ACC for granting the PhilCycling’s bid to host the Asian championships,” said PhilCycling chief Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, also the president of the Philippine Olympic Committee. “It’s been a while since we hosted international cycling events and with this privilege, PhilCycling, Tagaytay City and the entire country for that matter will put their best foot forward for this event.”

Tolentino said the PhilCycling will ask the UCI to calendar the 2023 Asian championships as qualifiers for the Paris 2024 Olympics. The last time that international cycling competitions were held in the country was in 2019 during the 30th Southeast Asian Games. Tagaytay City was the main hub of competitions for Road and BMX, while nearby Laurel (Batangas) hosted the Mountain Bike (MTB) competitions. At the forefront of the Philippines’ BMX Racing campaign is Daniel Caluag, a London 2012 Olympian and the country’s lone gold medalist at the Incheon 2014 Asian Games.

Joining him are his brother CJ Caluag and 2019 Asian Junior Championships gold medalist Patrick Coo. BMX Freestyle, now an Olympic and UCI event, consists of Flatland and Street with 2019 SEA Games veterans Renz Viaje and Alan Ray Alfaro leading the charge. A roof has been built over the BMX Track in Tagaytay City making it one of the most unique tracks in the continent. The Flatland competitions will be staged at the Sigtuna Hall inside the TICC and the Street events at the existing skatepark facility at the Tagaytay City athletics oval. The Philippines hosted continental cycling competitions in 2005 (Southeast Asian Games—Tagaytay City for Road, Amoranto Velodrome for Track and Danao City for MTB), 2004 (Puerto Princesa City for Asian MTB), 1997 (Danao City for Asian MTB) and 1995 (Amoranto Velodrome and Subic for Asian Road Championships).

Local bets impress in Altitude Obstacle Course Race World Series THE Philippines hosted the Altitude Obstacle Course Race World Series-Asia, with Filipino participants finishing first and third in separate categories. Using his familiriaty of the Mt. Pulag venue to his advantage, the Philippines’ Jhon Ray Anita beat Christian Jorgenssen of Denmark in the 21k event. Mt. Pulag, located in Kabayan, Benguet, is the Philippines’ second highest venue at 2,928 meters above sea level. Clint Roy Tomas, another local representing the community living in high-altitude areas near the venue, placed third in the 12-km event. Highlighting the Obstacle Course Race is the para event, where nine PWDs, amputees and visually impaired participants, showed their strong will in striving to be their best despite their disabilities. The Philippine Obstacle Sports Federa-

tion, Philippine Trail Running Association and Philippine Sports Commision organized the two-day Altitude Obstacle Course Race, participated in by 250 professional and amateur, local and international runners. Seven locals from the Kalanguya tribes around the communities of Mt. Pulag Forest reserve, led by Cara Dacnis, who was born and raised in Lusod, took part in the contest and despite their last-minute participation on a call by the Kabayan Local Government Unit to join, completed the 12-km race decently even against experienced runners. Meanwhile, the nine participants and their guides in the para event, inspired the community and the hundreds of participants with their fighting spirit, according to Philippine Obstacle Sports Federation’s Christine “Tin” Ferrera. Dave Leprozo Participants answer the starting gun

Puerto Princesa gears up for record-breaking Ironman 70.3

Palawan City Mayor Lucilo Bayron (left) receives the IRONMAN 70.3 logo from Princess Galura, general manager of the organizing Sunrise Events, Inc., during the IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa launch yesterday.

HOST Puerto Princesa City and Ironman Philippines are bracing for what could be the biggest Ironman 70.3 in terms of participation in the Asian region. Slated for Nov. 13 in the capital of paradise island of Palawan, the Ironman 70.3 will have more than 1,400 participants from around the world amexpected to compete. “Everybody worldwide is excited to compete after two years (of Covid-19 pandemic). Today, Ironman 70.3 in Palawan is launched globally so we expect a lot of people to come to visit and participate” said Princess Galura of the organizing Sunrise Events, Inc., during a press conference at the Mayor’s Office in Puerto Princesa on Monday. Galura said they will open

1,600 slots for the event that if fully filled up would surpass previous Ironman editions in Asia. “We’re very excited about the event. It’s a big thing for Puerto Princesa. We should be all ready for this, this is a big opportunity to pass up,” said Palawan City Mayor Lucilo Bayron, who asked the help of everybody in his City to successfully host the event that he said will provide “economic benefits” for the city of Puerto Princesa and other sites of Palawan. “Mamuhunan tayo dito, lagyan nating ng oras ito. ‘Pag naging successful ito, magdadala ito ng maraming economic benefits. Thank you for choosing Puerto Princesa,” said Bayron, adding that one of the plans is to gather all restaurant operators in the city to put up a subdivided food

offerings from European, American to Asian cuisine. Registration starts tomorrow (March 30). For details, visit www.ironman.com/im703-puerto-princesa, puertoprincesa70.3@ ironman.com, or www.ironman.com for brand and global event series. “We are excited to grow our portfolio of races in Asia. We are always on the lookout to create new race experiences that allow our athletes to compete in unique destinations while pursuing their best performance,” said Jeff Edwards, managing director of Asia for the IRONMAN Group. “We look forward to welcoming people from around the world to compete in IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa triathlon and enjoy what the city has to offer.” Randy Caluag

Hernandez, Singson top Junior World golf elims MAFY Singson clinched top honors in the premier division of the IMG Academy Junior World Qiualifier despite a closing 76 while Jet Hernandez topped the boys’ side at the Eagle Ridge Golf and Country Club in Gen. Trias, Cavite last Sunday. Singson also carded a four-over card in the opening round of the 54-hole tournament Friday and limped with an 80 in the second round as she and Burnberry Zhang shared the lead for the second straight day. But the latter fumbled with an 82 and Singson’s fellow ICTSIbacked Arnie Taguines failed to mount a big charge in the last 18 holes, enabling the SEA Games-bound Singson to cruise to victory with a 232 total. That was six strokes clear of Taguines, who ended up with a 79, and Zhang in the girls’ 15-18 division of the tournament which also featured competitions in other age-group divisions. The top four finishers in each category gained tickets to the annual Junior World Championships in Sand Diego, California in July. Singson, winner of four low amateur honors in last year’s Ladies Philippine Golf Tour, and LK Go, member of the team that swept the SEA Games golf golds at Luisita in 2019, were named captain’s picks for the national team vying in the upcoming biennial games in Hanoi in May. Rianne Malixi, who topped the last LPGT event at Midlands last December and beat Princess Superal to reign in this year’s kickoff leg of the country’s premier pro circuit at Luisita last week, will spearhead the SEAG team following a dominant performance in the recent SEAG qualifier, also at Luisita.

Sports

TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2022

Scheffler wins Match Play to take world no.1 ranking A USTIN —Scottie Schefﬂer powered to victory in the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play on Sunday to claim the world number one ranking from Spanish ace Jon Rahm.

In another milestone for Scheffler this year, the 25-year-old American eased past Kevin Kisner to complete a 4&3 victory at Austin Country Club. Scheff ler’s third PGA Tour victory of the year following wins at the Phoenix Open and Arnold Palmer Invitational saw him end Rahm’s 36week reign at the top of golf’s global rankings. “I really don’t know what to say,” an emotional Scheffler said afterwards. “I’m just really pleased. “It’s a tough week, a long week. I

figured out my routine to keep some energy. But I’m pretty worn out right now to be honest. “It’s a dream come true to play in front of my hometown fans here, going to school here. I have some good memories on this golf course, coming out to watch this tournament. “I’m pleased to be playing in it, and even more happy to win it.” Victory could not have been sweeter for Scheffler, the fifth seed who defeated former world number one Dustin Johnson in the semi-finals earlier Sun-

day and also eliminated defending champion Billy Horschel in the last 16 on Saturday. Against the 29th seeded Kisner in Sunday’s final, Scheffler took control early on, going three up after six holes and playing flawlessly thereafter to retain his advantage. Scheffler took the lead on the par-4 second hole when Kisner bogeyed after finding the greenside bunker with his second shot. Scheffler then drained a 20-foot birdie putt on the par-3 fourth to go 2 up, and then two holes later extended his lead on the par-5 sixth with his third birdie of the round. A superb third shot left him just just two feet from the cup for the simplest of birdie putts while Kisner could only make par.

Converge’s commitment to UP: We’ve only just begun THE connection is strong between the University of the Philippines Men’s Basketball Team and Converge ICT Solutions Inc. as they inked a multiseason deal ahead of the 84th season of University Athletic Association of the Philippines. The Fighting Maroons are among the top bets expected to go all the way in UAAP Season 84. Converge ICT Solutions Inc. founder and chief executive officer Dennis Anthony Uy expressed confidence in the Diliman squad, saying, “Given the caliber and talent of these young guys under Coach Goldwin [Monteverde], I expect no less than a Final Four finish.” “Converge believes the Fighting Maroons are a strong and talented team that embodies UP’s tradition of honor and excellence on and off the court – values that we also strive for at Converge. This is why we decided to continue our partnership with the team for UAAP Seasons 84 and 85. This partnership goes beyond the court,” Uy added. UPMBT team manager Atty. Agaton Uvero expressed appreciation for the assistance and support that Converge ICT Solutions has provided not just to the team but also to the UP community. “We are truly grateful to Converge for their faith in us and for all the support they’ve given to the team and the UP community throughout these challenging times. This is only the beginning of a strong connection between the Fighting Maroons and Converge. Together we will do great things,” Atty. Uvero said. Converge started supporting the UPMBT in 2020 during the height of the pandemic. Besides support for the basketball team, the telecommunication service provider supplied free internet connection to UP’s varsity student-athletes and other UP students who transitioned to remote learning because of the pandemic. “Providing fiber connectivity for students and teachers is an advocacy that is close to my heart. It is a privilege for us to help create the classroom environment that will help students to excel in their studies. We will continue to contribute in this advocacy,” Uy concluded.

Scheff ler then extended his lead on the 14th with another birdie, rolling in a 15-foot putt to leave Kisner four down with four to play and staring at defeat. Kisner needed something special on the 15th but the writing was on the wall after he could only land his second 20 feet from the hole. Kisner missed the birdie putt to leave Scheff ler two putts to seal the championship. After rolling his first short, Kisner conceded to complete a memorable tournament for Scheffler, beaten in last year’s final by Horschel. Kisner paid tribute to Scheffler in defeat. “He’s playing incredible golf. I knew I needed my best —just couldn’t get my putter to cooperate,” Kisner said. AFP Scottie Scheffler of the United States celebrates with his wife Meredith Scheffler on the 15th green after defeating Kevin Kisner of the United States 4&3 in their finals match to win the World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies Match Play at Austin Country Club in Austin, Texas. AFP

PATAFA partners with G-Shock G-SHOCK officially launched its partnership as the Official Timing Partner of the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association and the Athletics Team. The watch brand will also provide all national athletes competing at the 2022 Southeast Asian Games a Casio G-Shock watch. G-Shock has been an industry leader not only for athletes, but also for military personnel, and law enforcement. The G-Shock series are considered the most durable, toughest and reliable watches by outdoor aficionados. All watches come with outstanding water-resistant technology and are built to withstand extreme condition Watches were distributed to national athletes present at @ Tokyo Store” located in Uptown Mall in Bonifacio Global City, a place to shop for unique and trendy Japanese brands, perfect for friends and family. “The timing of the partnership is in line with Casio expanding their new line of sports watches,” said @Tokyo Store and PATAFA representative Judith Staples. “All our national athletes competing in Hanoi, Vietnam will not only look fashionable, but will also have the best training tool on their wrist all the time.” “G-Shock, has brought the new concept of toughness to their timepieces and is synonymous to the brand slogan of ‘absolute toughness. PATAFA is proud to have our athletes wearing Casio as they show the entire Southeast Asia our toughness or ‘lakas at tatag ng isang atletang Pilipino’ as they compete for our flag.”

Verstappen relieved at ‘kick-starting’ title defense JEDDAH (AFP) -- World champion Max Verstappen admitted he was relieved to secure his first win of the season after battling to a thrilling victory ahead of old rival Charles Leclerc in Sunday’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. The 24-year-old Dutchman said it had been a difficult, but good race and it showed that this season’s title battle “will be super-close between the two of us” after he won by just half a second ahead of the Ferrari. “It was a tricky one,” said the Red Bull driver. “We were battling hard at the front and we just had to play the long game. They were really quick through the corners, but we were quick on the straight. “The tyres were wearing out quite quick around here so you could see, at the end, I think we just had a little more pace and I just tried to get by.” Verstappen added that he had to learn to be patient to make the most of his car’s ‘new era’ performance. “It wasn’t easy, they were playing smart tricks in the last corner, but eventually I managed to get ahead. “With the yellow flags on the last

lap, just knowing how much you should lift and what is allowed or not, it was tough,” he added. “But I’m really happy that we’ve finally kick-started the season – it was like four qualifying laps at the end. “I had to wait. I wanted to go past him, but I wanted to win and not take too many risks so I had to work it out and take my chance.” Leclerc congratulated his rival on his victory on their slow-down laps, but after two races remains the embryonic championship’s early season leader by 12 points. “We had two very different configurations with the Red Bulls. We were quite quick in the corners, but slow on straights. It was extremely difficult for me to cover Max in the straight. He did a great job It was a fun race!” He added that there was respect between the two early-season championship contenders. “It’s always been there and especially when you finish a race like this on a street track. We’ve been pushing like I’ve rarely pushed before – taking risks… Of course, there’s respect!”

Red Bull’s Dutch driver Max Verstappen celebrates on the podium after the 2022 Saudi Arabia Formula One Grand Prix at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. AFP

PH jins join in Asean Taekwondo Federation tilt Vietnam THE 15-man Smart/MVP Sports Foundation taekwondo squad tests the mettle of its Southeast Asian neighbors in the 2022 Asean Taekwondo Federation Taekwondo Championships set March 30 to April 4, in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The Filipino jins leave for Vietnam on Tuesday. After a rigid training and qualifying session, selected to the team were Loralee Natividad, Abigail Faye Valdez, Realis Tabiando, Clarence Sarza, and Rhezie Aragon, Ceanne Kyle Rosquillo, Marvin Mori, Kier Macalino, King Nash Alcairo, Rommel Pablo Jr.,

Justin Mark Agno, Paul Romero, June Ninobla, Devy John Singson, Joseph Chua, and Alfritz Arevalo. The team is composed of 10 Kyorugi (Free Sparring) and five poomsae athletes together with delegation head Raul Samson and coaches (Kyorugi) Paul Romero, Devy Singson and (poomsae) June Ninobla. Members of the team will also be using the tournament as a gauge as to how far have they gone in their preparations for the 31st Southeast Asian Games, which the Vietnamese will also host in May.

Entertainment

Nickie Wang,, Editor Patricia Taculao, Editorial Assistant E-mail: lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2022

Fix yourself, Ana Jalandoni tells ex-boyfriend Kit Thompson By Nickie Wang ACTRESS and social media personality Ana Jalandoni couldn’t hold back her tears during her first public appearance since the incident that happened on March 18, when she was allegedly beaten by ex-lover Kit Thompson. Speaking to the entertainment press on Monday afternoon, the 25-year-old Ana who was wearing sunglasses to hide the still visible bruises on her face, admitted that she still loves the actor and is ready to forgive him anytime he reaches out to her. “Fix yourself,” was her short answer when asked about her message to Kit. “Mahal ko pa rin ang tao, pero ang galit

nandun pa rin yun. Kaya nga ako nagfile ng case, dun ko idadaan ang galit ko, sa tamang proseso. Tao rin ako, marunong ako magpatawad pero lahat ng bagay na ginagawa natin ay may consequences lalu na kapag gumawa tayo ng mali,” she carried on while breaking down in between words. “Hindi ko deserve ‘yung nangyari sa akin. Kailangang ipaglaban ko ang sarili ko,” she went on. Accompanied by her lawyers and some family members, Ana clarified that there was no third party involved in their altercation and it was the alcohol that triggered the fight. She admitted though that she was previously

Mike de Leon’s ‘Citizen Jake’ available for free on Mulat streaming app

(From left) Cherie Gil, Mike de Leon, and Atom Real-life journalist Atom Araullo takes the lead role in ‘Citizen Jake’ Araullo shooting a scene for ‘Citizen Jake’

THE remarkable Filipino film Citizen Jake, the 21st-century obra maestra from iconic director Mike de Leon, is set for public exhibition through streaming app Mulat for two weekends, including on regular holidays commemorating Filipino heroism and sacrifices — April 9 and May 1. The modern classic that relevantly touched the country’s struggle with authoritarianism was originally distributed in theaters back in 2018. This time, the movie will be screened through open ticketing and school watch parties as the nation goes through the crucial stretch of the ongoing election campaign period. Citizen Jake, which stars real-life journalist Atom Araullo in the titular role, is set for streaming on Mulat Premiere Cinema on April 9 and 10, and then April 30 and May 1. The film’s streaming stretch this summer is the biggest project yet of the rising creative digital avenue Mulat, which serves as a helpful platform for content creators, filmmakers, influencers, and other modernday artists. The production arm officially named Mulat Broadcasting and Entertainment, Inc., and spearheaded by creative director Mel Bacani (who is lauded for his firstassistant director work on the also-revered film Sakay) is said to be synergizing the most modern and latest breakthrough technologies on Big Data, Blockchain, and Artificial Intelligence. It hopes to guide and assist underserved individuals and groups in the field of arts and communication. Citizen Jake is a film noir that puts fictional protagonist Jake Herrera (Araullo) in an emotional struggle being a new school journalist in search of and protecting the truth, while ironically born as the son of a dictator’s crony.

The movie also stars Teroy Guzman as Jake’s father Jacobo Hererra Sr. who is a corrupt senator, Gabby Eigenmann as his congressman-brother Roxie, and Max Collins as his girlfriend Mandy, an English school teacher. Other notable portrayals are delivered by seasoned acts Cherie Gil, Victor Neri, Allan Paule, Nonie Buencamino, Lou Veloso, and Dina Bonnevie. According to DLSU professor Manny Reyes who himself directed a movie about Filipinos’ obsession to become American called Dreaming Filipinos, the film’s backdrop is the all-too-shocking “statesanctioned violation of human rights.” In his review, he noted that main character Jake Herrera’s “attempt to try to get to the bottom of a murder case is met with a lot of resistance by powerful people who may be behind it.” The film strongly reflects director Mike de Leon’s beef with abused authority which for him is “not one to be followed blindly.” De Leon’s filmography is a legend’s track record with classics from the ‘70s (Itim, Kung Mangarap Ka’t Magising,Kakabakaba Ka Ba?), and the ‘80s (Kisapmata, Batch ’81, Sister Stella L.). He was awarded Best Director in the 1978 Asian Film Festival held in Australia. In 1999, he brought to new-age moviegoers the brilliant “Bayaning Third World.” The same year he was honored by the Cultural Center of the Philippines with Parangal Sentenyal sa Sining at Kultura. Mulat’s partnership with the veteran filmmaker is poised to highlight more of his classic work for audiences of digital streaming to savor. (To access Mulat Premiere Cinema and watch Mike de Leon’s Citizen Jake, register to http://www.mulatmedia.com.)

Will Smith strikes Chris Rock in viral Oscars moment ACTOR Will Smith stormed the Oscars stage and struck comedian Chris Rock across the face for joking about his wife, in a moment at Sunday’s gala that immediately went viral — and left attendees and viewers stunned. Rock, presenting the best documentary prize with a short comedy routine, had cracked a joke comparing Jada Pinkett Smith’s tightly cropped hair to Demi Moore’s appearance in the film G.I. Jane and suggested she appear in a sequel. In a moment that triggered awkward silence and confusion in the Dolby Theatre, Smith strode up to Rock and slapped him, before returning to his seat alongside Jada and shouting profanities. “Keep my wife’s name out of your fucking mouth,” yelled Smith, forcing the producers to bleep out several seconds of audio from the televised broadcast in the United States. The Los Angeles Police Department said it was “aware” of the incident that “involved one individual slapping another,” but that “the individual involved has declined to file a police report.” “If the involved party desires a police report at a later date, LAPD will be available to complete an investigative report,” read the department statement obtained by AFP. After the gala ended, the Academy

tweeted that it “does not condone violence of any form,” without directly referring to the incident. “Tonight we are delighted to celebrate our 94th Academy Awards winners, who deserve this moment of recognition from their peers and movie lovers around the world.” Pinkett Smith, who is also an actress, suffers from alopecia, and publicly revealed her diagnosis in 2018. According to The Hollywood Reporter’s Scott Feinberg, who was in attendance, a tearful Smith needed to be “pulled aside and comforted” by fellow actors Denzel Washington and Tyler Perry during a commercial break. Then, rapper and producer Sean “Diddy” Combs, presenting the next section, said: “Will and Chris, we’re going to solve that like family. Right now, we’re moving on with love.” Smith, 53, alluded to the chaotic incident in his acceptance speech for best actor, which he won for his role as the father of tennis greats Venus and Serena Williams in King Richard. With tears running down his cheeks, Smith said that “Richard Williams was a fierce defender of his family,” and that “art imitates life.” “I look like the crazy father, just like they said about Richard Williams. But love will make you do crazy things,” he added. “I’m hoping the Academy invites me back,” Smith said after apologizing to event organizers and his fellow nominees. AFP The viral moment where Will Smith strikes Chris Rock (Screengrab from BBC)

married in the United States in 2017. That relationship ended in 2018, she said. “There’s no third party involved. Dun siya nagseselos sa ex ko. Iniisip niya na iiwan ko din siya tulad ng ex ko. Duon nagsimula yung away,” she said. Two counts of violence against women, illegal detention, and frustrated homicide have been filed with the fiscal’s office in Tagaytay. “The case will continue even if they decided to reconcile,” Ana’s lawyer Faye Singson said explaining that it’s already a public case. As a parting message, Ana said that women should not be afraid to fight when they are being abused and trust that authorities will

help them in their situation. “Sa mga babae na nakaranas ng ganitong pangyayari, wag kayong matakot dahil unang una dapat hindi tayo sinasaktan ng mga lalaki, hindi tayo dapat pinagbubuhatan ng kamay. Kung mangyari ito sa inyo, huwag nating kimkimim o tanggapin dahil tayo ang kawawa, dapat putilin natin ang tali na yan. Nandun yung takot, pero sa ngayon dapat putulin natin ang ganyan. Dapat labanan niyo at lakasan niyo ang loob nyo,” she ended.

Ana Jalandoni covers her bruises with sunglasses during her first public appearance after the incident

The Juans during the launch of ‘Liwanag’

The Juans continue to inspire listeners through new album ‘Liwanag’

ARL Guevarra, Japs Mendoza, Chael Adriano, Joshua Coronel, and RJ Cruz – collectively known as The Juans – were over the moon sharing the good news about Liwanag, their first album in four years.

Speaking to Manila Standard Entertainment, the members talked about the effort and time they exerted in preparing for the roll-out of the massive 15-track compilation of all original tunes of varying themes about life, love, and relationships. “It took us a year to complete the album. And throughout the process, we were praying for creative juice because this album is very taxing mentally. Ibinuhos namin ang sarili namin dito but it didn’t end there. We had to give more,” Carl, the group’s frontman and main vocalist started. “We had to be ourselves in this album, but at the same time, we also had to be the best version of ourselves. And it’s really a challenge, especially on the production side. Japs is the overall producer of the album. And that process alone, from writing, producing, and mixing, it took a lot of effort,” he continued. For the first time, The Juans has more than two members contributing songs. Whereas before, lead singers Carl and Japs have taken the bulk of the songwriting. In the new album, bassist Chael and guitarist RJ are contributing significantly to the songwriting. And the resulting sound is noticeably adventurous. While most songs retain a pop sheen, The Juans is pushing

outside of its sonic comfort zones. Danceable tracks like “Pangalan” sit comfortably side by side with anthemic numbers like “Liwanag” and electropop flavored tunes like “Pinakakahintay.” The Juans is consciously innovating its sound, too. The tracks “Salamin” and “Love You” certainly are strikingly different from their past releases. Come to think of it, trying out new approaches to songs has been a hallmark of the band. And they couldn’t be more different than in the fauxrap and trap beat-inflected original song “Kahon,” the dance pop-flavored “Still Standing,” and the “show tunesy” “Teka Muna.” Then there’s the poignant and yearning piano ballad called “Kuya.” A song that seem to embody the underlying themes of hope and inspiration of all previous songs. As the members of The Juans themselves said: “Lahat tayo kailangan ng liwanag; Liwanag nagumagagabay, Liwanag na nagbibigay buhay; Ang liwanag nanagpapalinaw sa mga bagay na hindi natin maintidihan at Liwanag na tutunaw sa mga kasinungalingan niyayakap natin sakadiliman.” “We only get to appreciate light in darkness. The light that guides, that never gives up, never fails, and the light that will lead us to the right place,” Carl elaborated. Previously released fan-fave singles “Anghel,” “Dulo” and “Sabik” are also included complete this career landmark album. “There’s a part that you accept who you are but there’s a part where, as you accept yourself, you get to realize that you can be better, you can look better, you can sound better, I can speak better, and that’s the motivation behind trying to improve ourselves in every aspect whether it’s music, on how we look, on how we answer, or how we write. That’s how we wanted to inspire the listeners. And how do we inspire? We keep on growing,” Carl explained. On the eve of the album release, The Juans and Viva Records have elaborately prepared a series of activities leading to the official launch of all lyric videos released on The Juans’ YouTube channel on March 18.

Welcoming Boogie Bugayong back

ACTOR Boogie Bugayong has been away from the limelight of Philippine show business for more than two decades now. Curious about his showbiz history? Let your fingers do the walking and click your favorite search engine. There, you will chance upon some stories stating that he was one of Star Circle Originals Boogie’s history in showbiz starts with the Star Circle that included the likes of Diether Originals Ocampo, Marvin Agustin, and Patrick Garcia to mention a few. “When the taping started I expected that A Filipino male supermodel who most would think I’m a newcomer, and that’s sashayed on catwalks, fashion shows, and perfectly okay with me. So each time I’m on editorials, Boogie had iconic television the set, I try my very best to be as professional commercials for an alcoholic beverage and a team player as I could, be always on time, brand opposite the then sex kitten Joyce come in prepared, know my lines, and that I am Jimenez and as the everyday man for the always ready to give my small contribution to nation’s flag carrier airline. ensure the continued success of the show,” Presently, Boogie gets a showbiz he goes on. welcome in the much-loved GMA 7’s The story arc he shares with First Lady with Sanya Lopez as the Sandy Andolong who plays Edna as titular lead and Gabby Concepcion as the Lopez’s mother gets a lot of positive president. buzzes as they give a fresh spin Boogie gives life to a Presidential and portrayal to the always Security Guard named Ramil: “I’m truly intriguing cougar and cub humbled to be part of a top-rating show. relationship with the After being in hiatus all these years, I was kilig moments their surprised that I was given a good role, and characters share. the opportunity to work with some of the Boogie reveals: most talented and respected actors in the “More twists and industry.” turns will happen “It’s funny because I guess after being to PSG Ramil and inactive for more than two decades, I’m Edna, and that is not surprised that no one really recognizes, all I can say, for or has heard of me compared to my more now. As Ramil, famous batch mates from StarCircle,” the audiences will be Boogie humbly declares. definitely intrigued with his

character’s development.” Prior to this new rosy career phase, Boogie reveals how the ongoing pandemic impacted his life: “It was stressful and I felt that I was at the lowest point of my life - jobless, directionless, and a stranger in my native land, so different from the one I knew twenty years ago”. His earth angel manifested and came to the rescue: “I received a call from Artist Manager Ricky Gallardo, a friend from way back who managed to keep in touch all those years that I was away. Sir Ricky saw a photo that I posted on Facebook and asked if I was in town for good. I took that as a sign, so I gathered enough courage to ask him if he wanted to catch up.” “It was the height of the pandemic and we talked for hours at the roof deck of a Quezon City condominium where Sir Ricky had an office at. I told him that I needed his help to get back into show business since I missed acting very much and thought that doors might still open. Surprisingly, he didn’t even hesitate, and nicely offered to help me get back into the industry, not promising anything because most productions were put to a halt. He simply said, that he’ll give me a push, and let’s see which doors will open for me,” he adds. With patience, prayers, constant affirmation, and encouragement, the tides have turned and Boogie says that he’s finally back and feels like “I found where I belong again.” After First Lady, Boogie is slated to do an international film to be shot in the Philippines and hopes to be cast in the many new shows that the GMA Entertainment and Drama group will be producing in the months to come. Boogie Bugayong

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

TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2022

Life

A place for good health, balanced living, and prosperity FOR those who are looking to invest in 2022, beach properties are a rewarding option. As Feng Shui Master Kevin Foong said in a recent Zoom event presented by Chinoy TV and Landco, while mountains govern relationships and people, seas govern wealth. Investing in beach property is always auspicious. Landco, the pioneer of premium developments for 30 years and with a strong thrust on sustainability, has created BeachTowns in Batangas for individuals, families, and investors looking into adding leisure properties in their portfolios. The BeachTowns by Landco in Batangas perfectly fit the three main considerations when it comes to buying leisure properties: emotional, practical, and logical. Investing in a beach property is not just a sole decision but a shared goal with family, friends, and loved ones to have a healthier lifestyle, balanced life, and opportunity to work from the beach in the new normal. It is an investment that can be enjoyed now and even

Relish the beach life in the new normal at Landco’s BeachTowns

Investing in Landco’s BeachTowns gives people a chance to work from the beach

passed on to the next generation. Luxury residential beach properties held their values throughout the pandemic. In fact, Landco has seen its property developments as pandemicproof as they continue to grow in value over time. Punta Fuego, one of its premier developments in Batangas, increased in value by 300 percent in the

past two years. Landco’s BeachTowns in Batangas – Leisure Tourism Estates (LTE) CaSoBe and Club Laiya which cater to the tourism market and Playa series which are exclusive and gated properties are in master-planned communities with a long stretch of fine white sand beach complemented by sustainable and

technological infrastructure and easily accessible within 2-3-hour drive time from Metro Manila. These properties have strong internet connection, 24/7 security, access to modern conveniences, and property waste management. With Landco’s steadfast commitment to sustainability, CaSoBe and Club Laiya are both LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)registered with environment-friendly features and initiatives in harmony with the ecosystem and community; and Crusoe Cabins at CaSoBe is the first Edge (Excellence in Design for

Greater Efficiencies)-certified resort in the country for its eco-efficient design that results in reduction of energy, water and embodied energy in materials usage. To live and have a home by the beach has always been a dream for many, Landco has now paved the way to make that dream a reality with BeachTowns in Batangas. To schedule a site visit or for more information about Landco BeachTowns, call (+632) 8836 5000 or (+63 918) 836 5000 or email: info@landco.ph or visit https:// www.landco.ph/ or FB page: https://www. facebook.com/LandcoPacificCorporation.

Experience authentic Chinese cuisine in the country’s first Wu Xing restaurant

Boracay beckons; answer the call

Coast Boracay’s room packages include roundtrip land and boat transfers

WITH travel and health restrictions finally easing out, it’s time we mark our revenge on the pandemic and recapture all the lost time, travel, and memories. Feel the fine white sand dancing between your toes, revel in the picturesque colors of the sun setting on the azure horizon, taste the freshness of the Summer is here! Create your best Boracay ocean and the salty air licking your skin, ‘Funshine Moments’ at Coast hum and relax to the gentle but beckoning melody of the sea. as you lounge with your Let the fun shine barkada at one of the and create your best trendiest hangout places for Boracay “Let The food and cocktails on the Fun Shine” at Coast island – Cha Cha’s. Drop Boracay, your safe by for breakfast, lunch, or and vibin’ nest on the dinner for gustatory and most exciting island Instagram-ready savories in the country. including their baked Coast’s iconic garlic cheese and butter marketing campaign scallops and seafood “Let The Fun Shine” is tower—jewels from given a “new normal” the sea and bursting update as it entices with freshness. For the public to begin something to nibble Indulge in fresh coastal cuisine living their best lives on while getting high at Cha Cha’s again and relive their on the beautiful sunset, “sunshine” moments. Create fun new fill up on carne asada, carnitas, and crispy memories with your family and friends in sisig. Wake up to your best breakfast yet with stylish, Wi-Fi-equipped suites furnished Coast’s iconic The Hangover—a plate full with luxurious beds, toilet and bath, and of crispy bacon, breakfast sausage, potatoes Smart TV with free Netflix access. Start O’Brien, eggs, roasted parmesan tomato, your mornings with the sunshine in your homemade toast, butter, jam, and fresh fruit. face at Coast’s famous courtyard pool just There’s more to Coast a step away from your doors. While the property is a relaxation haven All these are at your fingertips with in itself, you can make more #FunShine Coast Boracay’s enticingly discounted moments from the menu of Boracay rates for the months of March to activities that Coast’s guest relations officer September with room rates that start at can arrange for you, like snorkeling or P 6,000 ++ for Deluxe accommodations, diving with the best instructors on the P 7,000++ for Premier, P11,500++ for a island. Drag your crew to an exhilarating One Bedroom suite, and very spacious ride on a banana boat or a jet ski. Become Loft suites at P 12,500++. as free as the wind and learn to kitesurf All rooms come with daily breakfast alongside pros at Bulabog Beach. for two persons, and roundtrip land When you’re ready to head back to and boat transfers to and from Caticlan Coast, you’ll be greeted with a pampering airport. Book early to enjoy the best rates date at Ta’La Tropical Nail and Foot Spa. for peak Ber months and Yuletide Season Relax to the magic of a Tala Signature 2022, starting at P8,500++. Massage, a 90-minute relaxing therapy that While Coast puts you directly at the heart uses Reiki energy healing for only P1,500. of the exciting beach life, they also have a For something quick to get you back on more tranquil option for those who want your feet, get a foot and leg massage, which some quiet private time. Four minutes away partners perfectly with their manicure and from Coast is Blue Marina Hotel, which pedicure services. shares the same contemporary island vibe Book your next Boracay trip at www. as Coast and gives you access to all of coastboracay.com. Check what others Coast’s facilities and amenities. Rates at are seeing and saying about Coast on Blue Marina start at P3,250++. their Instagram page at @coastboracay. It’s delicious at Coast Coast Boracay is located at the Station 2 Relish in Station 2’s bohemian vibe beachfront of Boracay, Aklan.

Private dining areas are also available in the restaurant

A whole roasted Peking duck Chef Raymond Yeung expertly carves a Peking duck

By Patricia Taculao

AMPANGA is widely known as a culinary destination among tourists where they can experience authentic versions of well-loved Filipino food like sisig, menudo, and kaldereta.

Now, as Clark Marriott recently launched the first Wu Xing restaurant that brings the taste of authentic Chinese food to Clark Freeport Zone, the province is poised to be the newest dining destination for Chinese cuisine. “We are bringing authentic and traditional Peking duck to northern Luzon. We are already a destination for people to staycation coming out of Manila for the weekend. That was the bread and butter for the last 12 months, and it grew compared to the prepandemic period. Now, people have more reasons to make the trip to Clark Marriott,” said Clark Marriott general manager Goeran Soelter. Upon entering the restaurant, a view

of the kitchen greets diners, showing them how the ducks are roasted and prepared. As they approach the dining area, diners will feel transported to Hong Kong as the interior features Chinese fixtures to give diners an authentic experience. Besides the main dining area, Wu Xing also features five dining areas that accommodate small to large parties. Guests can then delight themselves with expertly prepared dishes such as crispy soft tofu with hoisin sauce (P420), roasted pork belly (P880), honey-glazed barbecued pork (P580), deep-fried tiger prawn, shrimp mousse (P440 per piece), a bowl of Buddha Jumps Over The Wall (P2,880), and more. Wu Xing’s main attraction is the Peking duck sourced directly from China. The duck is then marinated and roasted in a traditional Beijing oven using star apple firewood to bring out the natural flavors and aroma of the protein. A whole roasted duck costs P3,380. The restaurant serves the duck rolled in a hot Chinese pancake with cucumbers, onion leeks, pickled ginger, and a special hoisin sauce. Wu Xing also serves their duck minced with Romaine lettuce to let

diners experience a depth of flavor. Award-winning, new-generation chef Raymond Yeung receives all the credit for producing such flavorful dishes. “Traditional Chinese cuisine was developed through almost 500 years of Chinese history. At Wu Xing, we follow the Beijing style of preparing and cooking our Peking duck using Clark Marriott’s specialized equipment,” Yeung said. Yeung has 30 years of experience in Chinese cuisine, with Cantonese as his specialty. He is an expert in merging complex flavors thanks to his rich experience in the diverse world of modern Chinese cuisine. He also took a five-year course in Hong Kong at the Chinese Cuisine Training Institute (CCTI) from 2000 to 2005. When it came to developing the menu for Wu Xing, Yeung paid extraordinary detail to draw the best regional styles across China from Beijing to Shanghai to Sichuan to Hong Kong and took the best out of them to create the restaurant’s dishes. Wu Xing is now open at Clark Marriott at the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga. For inquiries and table reservations, visit Wu Xing by Clark Marriott on Facebook or contact +6345 598 5000.

Honey-glazed barbecued pork

Many IG moments are at hand at Coast’s courtyard swimming pool Deep-fried tiger prawn, shrimp mousse

Crispy soft tofu with hoisin sauce

Roasted pork belly