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BRAVING THE RAIN.

Presidential bet Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. delivers his message to hundreds of thousands of Leyteños and Taclobanons, who survived super typhoon 'Yolanda' in 2013, during UniTeam's Grand Campaign Rally at the jampacked Leyte Grandstand in Tacloban City on Sunday. Also braving the showers from Tropical Storm 'Agaton' were House Majority Leader Martin Romualdez and Tingong Party-List Rep. Yedda Romualdez. Ver Noveno

Romualdezes, Petillas join arms to rally Leytenos for BBM, Sara candidate Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and his running mate Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte. Organizers and police estimated the DESPITE bad weather, Leyteños and crowd at the Leyte Grandstand at between Taclobanons came out in droves overthe 120,000 and 150,000 Saturday. weekend for UniTeam presidential Next page

By Rio N. Araja and Rey E. Requejo VOL. XXXVI • NO. 57 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18MONDAY, APRIL 11, 2022 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Congress lacks time for ‘endo’ Sotto laments Palace’s failure to act on bill, to clarify how to amend it By Macon Ramos-Araneta

HERE is no more time for Congress to make changes to the security of tenure bill that President Rodrigo Duterte vetoed, Senate President Vicente Sotto III said Sunday.

The bill would have prohibited the practice of “endo,” short for “end of contract,” through which companies hire and rehire contractual employees after five months to avoid paying them benefits as regular employees. In declining to sign the bill, Duterte urged Congress to rectify the vetoed provisions of the bill, which he said “unduly broadens the scope and definition of prohibited labor-only contracting, effectively proscribing forms of contractualization that are not particularly unfavorable to employees involved.” Sotto said the Palace did not respond to a Senate request that they inform the senators how they wanted the bill framed. He noted that the bill had been earlier certified as urgent by the President himself and would have fulfilled one of his campaign promises to end contractualization. Senator Risa Hontiveros, who is seeking re-election, said she would go back to the Senate to fight for the bill that Next page the President did not sign.

Black Nazarene motorcade set on Good Friday AS THE Holy Week began for the country’s Christian faithful, an official of the Quiapo Church said on Sunday the procession of the Black Nazarene on Good Friday, April 15, will be conducted through a motorcade that will follow the same route as the Traslacion. “The Black Nazarene will come out on Good Friday but it will be via motorcade. It will not be pulled using a rope by devotees,” Quiapo Church parochial vicar Fr. Douglas Badong said in a Super Radyo dzBB interview.

PALM SUNDAY SCENES. Cardinal Jose Advincula unveils the 'Homeless Jesus' statue on the grounds of the Manila Cathedral on Palm Sunday, April 10. Earlier, Advincula sprinkled holy water on 'palaspas' or palm fronds which Catholic faithful held on to their as they waited for the blessing during the early morning Mass at the Quiapo Church and Manila Cathedral (inset). Danny Pata and Norman Cruz

HK police flags big turnout of OFWs to cast absentee votes By Rio N. Araja FILIPINOS in Hong Kong came out in droves as overseas absentee voting started for Pinoys abroad on Sunday, prompting authorities to ask them to consider casting their votes for the May 9 general elections on weekdays or other days.

High-risk events may spark virus surge—expert By Willie Casas A GOVERNMENT adviser has warned of a possible surge in COVID-19 cases in the next two months due to big events including the May 9 elections and religious events such as Ramadan and the Holy Week. "We have the campaign period in politics, elections, and we have religious events like Ramadan and mass gatherings. Next page

The huge turnout of absentee voters on the first day yesterday alarmed authorities in the Chinese special administrative region, which isbattling a deadly COVID-19 surge. Meanwhile, presidential frontrunner Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s Partido Federal ng Pilipinas on Sunday

called on all registered overseas Filipino workers to vote at their respective embassies and designated polling areas in countries where they are based. According to PFP secretary general Thomson Lantion, it is important for OFWs to vote because the future of Filipinos depends on it, not only those

based in the Philippines, but also those living and working abroad. Lantion also thanked all PFP members around the world for supporting “BBM's” candidacy. "You will take the lead and give not only direction, but you will take the lead Next page

Duterte endorses 4 senatorial bets In ‘The Chatroom’ MALACAÑANG on Sunday said the state-run show that features President Rodrigo Duterte interviewing senatorial candidates whom he endorsed for the May 2022 polls is part of the national government’s information dissemination drive. The first episode of “The President’s Chatroom,” which aired Saturday night, featured two senatorial candidates of Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban), former Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission Chair

‘Agaton’ affects 45k people after landfall in East Samar MORE than 23,000 families have been displaced from their homes as tropical storm Agaton continued to move slowly westward over the coastal waters of Balangiga, Eastern Samar, the weather bureau said Sunday. The storm, the first for the year, was packing maximum sustained winds of 75 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center, with gustiness of up to 105 kph. It is accompanied by strong winds that extend outwards up to 220 km from the center.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said more than 45,000 people have been affected by the storm. A total of 3,347 people were evacuated from their homes in Cagayan de Oro and Bukidnon province due to rain-induced landslides, and flooding caused by Agaton. Evacuations were also reported in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and Next page

WADING IN BAYBAY. Men push their waterlogged truck in knee-deep floods along Tacloban Baybay South Road in Baybay City, Leyte, which was not passable to light vehicles due to flooding from the rains brought by Tropical Storm Agaton on Sunday. DPWH Photo

News

MONDAY, APRIL 11, 2022

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Sara vows greater roles for PWDs

ICE presidential aspirant Sara Duterte on Sunday vowed to replicate Davao City programs for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) by providing them more jobs and livelihood training.

During her visit to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) compound in Escopa, Quezon City for a “meet and greet” with the PWDs of the Quezon City’s Third District, she reiterated how the PWDs in Davao City were given priority in terms of business and livelihood. She said the City Government of Davao prioritizes the provision of their personally managed offices that will

promptly cater to fellow PWDs’ needs. “In Davao City, PWDs want to have autonomy in running the office. So that’s what we have been working on, that they should be attached to our City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO),” Mayor Sara said, adding that the Davao City Hall employs a considerable number of PWDs. “We are trying to make them a standalone office, our offices along with em-

Congress...

widely used in other countries like India. “It is a global practice accepted by many governments. It is only here in the Philippines where endo, though practiced, is not acceptable,” he said. Many big companies in the Philippines practice endo, as many of employees in malls and grocery and convenience store chains are contractual workers, he said. Ortiz-Luis noted that retail, construction, and similar sectors practice endo because these sectors need to always adjust to the level of demand for services, particularly in peak seasons for retail and construction. “These companies outsource labor to service providers. And frankly, whether they subcontract or not, it should be the prerogative of the employer or company,” he said.

From A1

"We worked hard on this up to the end together with Senate President Vicente Sotto III," Hontiveros said. "But we all failed. We are sad the Palace did not support this.” Earlier, employers said it will be difficult for the government to stop “endo,” because many industries have come to thrive using this scheme. Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) president Sergio Ortiz-Luiz said the President might not truly understand the consequences of ending endo since this could lead to an exodus of investments. He added that contractualization is

‘Agaton’... From A1

Caraga regions in the previous days due to flooding and landslides. Four regions in the Visayas and Mindanao were affected by the cyclone: Region 10 (Northern Mindanao), Region 11 (Davao Region), CARAGA, and the BARMM. Two people have also been confirmed injured from Region 10. Up to 44 houses were also damaged by the storm, all of them from Northern Mindanao. NDRRMC reported about P874,000 worth of damage to agriculture in BARMM, with 230 hectares of crops in the region damaged by the cyclone. Agaton also damaged 49 roads and bridges in Davao De Oro, Misamis Oriental, Surigao del Sur, and Agusan del Sur. One of the hardest-hit towns in Agusan del Sur, Trento, has been placed under a state of calamity, the NDRRMC reported. A province-wide class suspension was also declared in Agusan del Sur, while

HK... From A1

that will bring success for BBM Sara UniTeam in your voting (on Sunday) around the world," Lantion said. Hong Kong police patrolled and flagged the deluge of Filipino voters in Kennedy Town as the Philippine Consul General in the island state asked them to observe health protocols to avoid the possible spread of the coronavirus disease. This also prompted a Filipino labor group in Hong Kong to call for more polling precincts and a lawmaker to call for an immediate investigation into the “chaotic and disorganized” election system there that will last for a month. “The turn out today is overwhelming - a good sign that our democracy is alive and burning. But it seems that everybody wants to vote on the first day," Philippine Consul General Raly Tejada said in a statement posted on his Facebook page. "The police are asking voters to cast their ballots on another day due to safety concerns and anti-pandemic measures in place,” he added. Tejada noted that the polling place for registered overseas Filipino voters would be open for 30 days, giving Filipinos ample time to cast their ballots for the 2022 national elections. "Please consider the request of the Hong Kong Police," he said. “Before giving its consent, one of the conditions set forth by the Hong Kong Government is strict compliance with anti-pandemic measures given that Hong Kong is in the midst of the Fifth Wave of the pandemic,” the consulate said in an advisory. “Thus, to ensure effective crowd control and compliance with antipandemic measures, the Consulate General upon the recommendation of the Hong Kong Police wishes to announce that today’s capacity to accept voters has reached its limit,” it added. Bayan Hong Kong and Macau Chairperson Eman Villanueva said the line of Filipino voters at Kennedy Town stretched up to two kilometers. Hong Kong police asked those in charge of the precinct to discourage Filipinos from coming to the site to stop the queue from getting longer,

five areas in Eastern Samar and Bukidnon also suspended classes in all levels due to the storm. Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) No. 2 prevailed over the central and southern portions of Eastern Samar, the central and southern portions of Samar, and the northeastern portion of Leyte. The rest of Eastern Samar, rest of Samar, Northern Samar, Biliran, rest of Leyte, Southern Leyte, and the northern portion of Cebu including Camotes Islands are under TCWS No. 1. The Philippine Coast Guard Sorsogon Station on Sunday suspended sea vessel trips on the Matnog, Sorsogon-Allen, Northern Samar route due to Agaton, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) said. All trips of vessels enroute to Eastern Samar, the rest of Samar, Northern Samar, Biliran, Leyte, Southern Leyte, and Camotes Islands were also suspended. From Sunday until early Tuesday, Agaton is forecast to move erratically or remain almost stationary over the eastern portion of Leyte and southern portion of Samar Island and its coastal waters. Rio N. Araja Villanueva said. There are only five polling precincts in the Chinese region, each with only one vote counting machine (VCM), said Villanueva, adding that each site would have to accommodate up to 20,000 voters. "We think there should be more precincts now compared to the previous election because in the previous election, we had 10 precincts," Villanueva told ABS-CBN's TeleRadyo. "If we can't bring back the previous 10 precincts that operate at any given time, hopefully they'll add more... because it's the presidential elections, the voters' enthusiasm is different," he said. Comelec Spokesperson James Jimenez, in a separate TeleRadyo interview, echoed Tejada's appeal, noting that voting for overseas Filipinos "is actually until May 9." "So there's still a lot of time for our compatriots," Jimenez said, as he also clarified that voting at Kennedy Town did not stop. Jimenez added the Comelec has requested for additional VCMs in Hong Kong. In a statement, Bayan Muna Rep. Ferdinand Gaite said he would ask the House Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms to summon the Comelec, Department of Foreign Affairs, and Hong Kong consular office to look into the matter. "We cannot allow the potential massive disenfranchisement of our overseas voters due to the ineptitude and lack of proper organizing by these officials," Gaite said. Absentee voters in Dubai also began casting their ballots on Sunday at the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai. According to the Philippine Consul General the United Arab Emirates has the largest number of registered voters with about 200,000. Voting hours are from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, and 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. from April 11 to May 8. Meanwhile, voting on May 9 will be from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Earlier, the Comelec postponed the start of overseas voting in Shanghai, China due to the COVID-19 surge. Comelec Commissioner Marlon Casquejo said there were around 1,600 Filipino voters in the city. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Pope Francis calls for Easter truce in Ukraine war

ployees of the City Government of Davao assigned in their offices, they will decide on what policies and projects for their sector,” she added. Among the attendees in Sunday’s event is Daisy Lumalang, 54, an orthopedic impaired since she was 2 years old, said she is thankful to Duterte for being passionate in serving the underprivileged, especially the PWD sector. “We are very thankful that Mayor Sara is visiting us because we know she has compassion for everyone, especially to us with disabilities,” Lumalang said. She added: “Mayor Sara already helped a lot of PWDs. Meaning, she can also do it throughout the country. I have

strong faith that she will win,” she added. Duterte highlighted the importance of business security in different sectors stating that it is the “key to financial stability.” “Our first directive for every sector in Davao was to provide livelihood because that is the easiest to learn and to earn profit. We also give employment opportunities for those who want to work and not business,” Duterte said. Republic Act 7277 or Magna Carta for Disabled Persons is “an act providing for the rehabilitation, self-development and self-reliance of the disabled person and their integration into the mainstream of society and for other purposes” that was signed into law in 1992.

Romualdezes,...

Marcos on May 9. “It is good that you are here to show your support even if it is raining. It is also good that you are still convincing your relatives and friends to support BBM. But what is more important is that when May 9 comes, even if it rains, you go out to vote for him,” he said. The different local government officials of Leyte, from the First District up to the Fifth District also endorsed Marcos during a meet and greet. Baybay Mayor Jose Carlos “Boeing” L. Cari said they are joining Marcos and his running mate Inday Sara Duterte in promoting their advocacy of unity. Marcos expressed his elation and gratitude for the strong support shown by the huge throng who filled the Baybay Convention Center complex. Majority of them had been standing under the rain since early morning, waiting for the rally which was set for 10:30 a.m. "Wave so that the whole Philippines can see that here in Leyte, no one leaves even if it rains," the presidential frontrunner told the crowd, after spotting a drone flying overhead. “I don't have to explain unity here. Just look behind me. Our local officials, even on both sides, are here. Leyte is united. They have united behind the MarcosDuterte coalition,” Marcos added. Local officials of Leyte’s District 4 endorsed the UniTeam tandem. The officials, led by mayoralty candidate and district Rep. Lucy Torres Gomez, and her husband Richard Gomez, who is Ormoc City mayor and congressional candidate, made the formal endorsement during last Saturday’s rally at the city plaza. The Gomezes had earlier publicly announced that they would support the BBM-Sara tandem. The incumbent mayor introduced Marcos to his constituents as the country’s next president. Other local officials who attended the rally included Ormoc Vice Mayor Toto Locsin, Merida Mayor Lando Villacencio, Matag-ob Mayor Mike Danguillas, former Palumpon Mayor Georgina Arevalo, former Isabel Vice Mayor TJ Alcantara, Kanganga Mayor Matt Torres, Albuera Mayor Sixto dela Victoria, and provincial board members Ninoy Arevalo and Vince Rama. The Ormoc and Leyte-Fourth District officials’ endorsement of the BBM-Sara tandem followed similar pronouncements made by political leaders in the province. Over the weekend, Marcos said he would revive an initiative to enable Filipinos to secure a housing loan within just seven days. Previously implemented by the Home Development Mortgage Fund (HDMF), more commonly known as Pag-IBIG Fund, the “7-Day Takeout Policy” willshorten the low-cost housing loan application process. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Meanwhile, railway services in Metro Manila will be suspended for a few days in observance of the Holy Week and for their annual maintenance activities, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said yesterday. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) also monitored 13,640 outbound passengers from ports across the country on Sunday ahead of Holy Week. In a Facebook post, the PCG also said 10,421 inbound passengers were recorded. In a related development, Manila Archbishop Jose F. Cardinal Advincula unveiled the "Homeless Jesus" statue at the Manila Cathedral on Palm Sunday. Crafted by Canadian artist Timothy Schmalz, the image depicts Jesus as a homeless man sleeping on a bench while wrapped in a blanket. Jesus is identifiable by the crucifixion wounds on his feet. Shown to the public just in time for Holy Week, Manila Cathedral hoped it would "inspire reflections and conversations on how we care for the poor and homeless in the community." "May this statue not only become a place for visits or pictures, but a space to deepen our prayer, and to convert and change our hearts," itsaid in a previous press statement. Other replicas of the statue are located in Buenos Aires, Capernaum, New York, Madrid, Melbourne, Rome, and Singapore. The Metro Rail Transit-Line 3 (MRT 3) and the Light Rail Transit-Line 2 (LRT2) will be closed from April 13 (Holy Wednesday) to April 17 (Easter Sunday). Regular operations are expected to resume on April 18. On April 12, Holy Tuesday, LRT2 operations will run from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. while MRT3 operations will follow the normal schedule. Philippine National Railways, meanwhile, will halt its operations from April 14 (Maundy Thursday) to April 16 (Black Saturday). Normal operations will resume on April 17, Easter Sunday. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

active cases to 29,440, the lowest since January 2, when it had 21,418 active infections. Among the top regions with cases in the last two weeks were the National Capital Region with 1,395, followed by Region 4-A with 503 and Region 3 with 368. The number of recoveries rose to 3,591,931, while the country’s death toll climbed to 59,730. The DOH said the country's bed occupancy rate remained at 16.1%, with 5,273 beds occupied and 27,430 beds unoccupied. The department also said 19,712 individuals were tested, with 312 testing laboratories submitting data. Despite the plateauing of COVID-19 cases, Herbosa explained that a surge was still possible. "A COVID-19 surge could still happen, that was our cycle in the past where cases are increasing every three months. So, it was like January or February, we're due for another surge or outbreak,” Herbosa said.

"I think it is difficult to relax. I am cautiously optimistic. We hope a surge would not return due to our high vaccination rate in Metro Manila. But of course, it's still possible in other parts of the country,” he said. Herbosa said the government had so far not yet identified a case of Omicron XE, a possible new coronavirus variant linked to but is 10 times more transmissible than Omicron. Also interviewed at the Laging Handa briefing, OCTA Research fellow Dr. Guido David reiterated that COVID-19 cases might rise after the May 9 elections. "There is a possibility. There were upticks seen in other parts of the country, but these upticks are still minimal, not yet alarming. We saw an uptick in Central Luzon and Northern Mindanao. But the areas are still at very low risk ... we do not want to raise a false alarm,” he said. David said information on the Omicon XE was still limited as Philippine experts continue to conduct their study on the subvariant.

He said viewers would benefit from knowing about the candidates Duterte personally endorsed. “This forms part of the government information dissemination drive about the 2022 elections and candidates whom President Rodrigo RoaDuterte earlier vowed to personally campaign for, and once they get elected, would ensure continuity of the policies and programs of the current administration,” Andanar added.

People’s Television Network, Inc., in partnership with the Commission on Elections and the PCOO, launched "The Chatroom" last month to inform the public of candidates’ platforms and agenda. Andanar has already interviewed presidential candidates Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Senator Manny Pacquiao, Ernesto Abella, and even known government critic Leody de Guzman. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

From A1

Meanwhile, Leyte Gov. Leopoldo Dominico Petilla on Saturday predicted that Partido Federal ng Pilipinas standardbearer would win in the province with 70 to 80 percent of the votes. While senatorial aspirants Harry Roque, Sherwin Gatchalian, Herbert Bautista, Mark Villar, Juan Miguel Zubiri, Jinggoy Estrada and Robin Padilla joined the huge rally, Duterte spent the day campaigning in the 3rd district of Pangasinan with congressional aspirant Rachel Arenas. Organizers said the candidates earlier agreed to split up so they could visit more areas and reach out to remote communities ahead of the May 9 polls. The rally, hosted by House Majority Leader and Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats president Martin Romualdez and his wife, Tingog party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez, and Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez, looked more like a victory party for Marcos, the organizers said. In memory of the thousands who lost their lives to super typhoon Yolanda in 2013, singers Dulce, Renz Verano, and Beverly Salviejo sang a solemn version of the national anthem. Marcos was introduced on stage by Romualdez. “That’s what I said, the Taclobanons can brave the rains. Despite the downpour, I felt the warm welcome of the people,” Romualdez said. “It is nice to be home again in Tacloban and to be with you,” he added. A fireworks display that lasted 35 minutes amid a steady drizzle followed the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas standardbearer's speech. The UniTeam members also met with local officials led by Leyte Gov. Leopoldo Dominico Petilla and the Tacloban City mayor. “In a sense, I was not surprised because Bongbong is related to us Leyteños by blood and family origin,” Romualdez said. Marcos and Romualdez are cousins. Petilla, who endorsed Marcos earlier, said for the last few weeks they have been going to the grassroots, meeting with barangay officials of the different municipalities and cities to solicit more votes for Marcos. “We have already endorsed BBM. This is just a rally to reiterate our support. First of all, he is from Leyte. We are regionalistic and we really side with the locals. Endorsing him is not just my decision, all of us here support him,” he said, during a rally they organized for the UniTeam in Baybay, Leyte. Petilla also reminded the supporters that it was not enough to show their support—they must go out to vote for

High-risk... From A1

All of these are what we call 'highrisk events' for superspreaders," National Task Force (NTF) Against COVID-19 medical adviser Dr. Ted Herbosa said at the Laging Handa briefing. Herbosa said that during Ramadan, Muslims eat together at night, while Catholics go to the provinces during Holy Week to see their relatives. Political rallies, meanwhile, are mass gathering events in which attendees sometimes forget to wear their face masks properly. "This is a good reminder for us that COVID-19 cases could rise in next two months," Herbosa said. The Department of Health on Saturday reported a total of 302 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the nationwide tally to 3,681,101. The number also brought the country's

Duterte... From A1

Greco Belgica and House Deputy Speaker Rodante Marcoleta. “The President's Chatroom aims to introduce certain senatorial candidates and their platforms to the wider Filipino audience,” Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar said in a statement.

POPE Francis on Sunday called for an Easter ceasefire in Ukraine to pave the way for peace through "real negotiation." "Let the Easter truce begin. But not to provide more weapons and pick up the combat again—no!—a truce that will lead to peace, through real negotiation," he told a public mass at Saint Peter's Square. The pontiff denounced a war where "defenseless civilians" suffered "heinous massacres and atrocious cruelty" (See related story in World, page B2 – Editors). "What victory is there in planting a flag on a pile of rubble?" he asked. Francis on Wednesday had already condemned the targeting of civilians in Ukraine, calling the discovery of bodies in Bucha near Kyiv a "massacre" and embracing a Ukrainian flag from the "martyred town." He has also expressed his willingness to contribute to halting the fighting in Ukraine and said he would be ready to travel to Kyiv. Russia has denied responsibility for the apparent killings of civilians in Bucha, accusing Ukraine of staging them. Moscow has not provided any evidence to back up its claim. AFP

Black... From A1

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MONDAY, APRIL 11, 2022

Price hike in agri products seen T

HE Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG) sees prices of agricultural commodities increasing in the coming weeks.

The projection followed the United Nations Food and Agriculture statement Friday that world food prices hit an alltime high in March as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine sent “shocks” through markets for staple grains and vegetable oils. The disruption in export flows resulting from the Feb. 24 invasion and international sanctions against Russia has spurred fears of a global hunger crisis, especially across the Middle East and Africa, where the knock-on effects are already playing out. Russia and Ukraine, with vast grain-

growing regions that are among the world’s main breadbaskets, account for a huge share of the globe’s exports in several major commodities such as wheat, vegetable oil and corn. “World food commodity prices made a significant leap in March to reach their highest levels ever, as war in the Black Sea region spread shocks through markets for staple grains and vegetable oils,” the FAO said in a statement. Interviewed on Dobol B TV during the weekend, SINAG president Rosendo So said, “We expect the pric-

es of agricultural products to increase because the prices of raw materials are going up.” However, So said the price hikes would not be sudden but gradual. In particular, the harvest price of corn rose by P0.50 per kilo, according to the SINAG chief. With this, So said that in the coming week “the production cost of farmers increased, thus the price of produce will also go up.” He added the price of fish and vegetables would also increase. For fish, So said that the price of bangus rose to P135 per kilo from P85 per kilo while the price of tilapia increased by P30. The price of chicken, while there is

no supply issue in the meantime, is also expected to increase. He added the country might face a bigger problem if the avian f lu would spread. Price of pork is seen at P330 to P340 per kilo in Luzon, according to So. For rice, So said that the group is not seeing an additional increase for now. The FAO’s food price index, which had already reported a record in February, surged by 12.6 percent last month, “making a giant leap to a new highest level since its inception in 1990”, the UN agency said. The index, a measure of the monthly change in international prices of a basket of food commodities, averaged 159.3 points in March. AFP

IN BRIEF Duterte dances with youngest daughter Kitty PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte danced with his youngest daughter Veronica “Kitty” to the tune of crooner Richard Poon’s “I’ll Take Care of You” at her 18th birthday party. Duterte’s former chief presidential legal counsel and senatorial candidate Salvador Panelo shared a minute-long video of the father and daughter dancing on his official Facebook page. “Happening Now: The President dancing with his precious daughter Kitty on her debut! Happy birthday, Kitty!” Panelo captioned. He also shared a video of himself serenading Kitty and the audience with Sharon Cuneta’s song “Sana’y Wala Nang Wakas.” Panelo earlier said the 1986 hit was one of his favorite songs. He said he sang the song to honor his late son and pay homage to the singer and composer of the song, Willy Cruz. Duterte has always talked fondly of his youngest daughter. In 2018, he boasted about how his daughter’s lowest grade was 91. Kitty is the daughter of Duterte with his common-law wife Cielito “Honeylet” Avanceña.

11,594 people affected by Taal’s unrest ABOUT 11,594 people were affected by Taal Volcano’s phreatomagmatic bursts as Phivolcs lowered its alert level status, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said Sunday. The affected individuals, who also comprise more than 3,000 families, were from five towns in Batangas: Agoncillo, Balete, Cuenca, Laurel, and Talisay. On Saturday, Phivolcs lowered the alert level status of Taal Volcano from level 3 to level 2 due to “decreased unrest.” However, the agency clarified that the lowering of Taal to Alert Level 2 doesn’t mean that the volcano’s unrest has ceased or that the threat of an eruption has disappeared. About 5,225 people, or 1,547 families, were also displaced by Taal’s unrest. Of the number, 5,201 were from Batangas, 19 were from Laguna, and 5 were from Cavite. Residents near Taal Volcano seek safe grounds following unrest, officials said. Most of these displaced residents are living with their relatives and friends as of Sunday, NDRRMC said.

COALITION LAUNCH. Bobby Brillante, CMDC convenor, Prof Punduma Sani, vice chairman of the Moro National Liberation Front, and

Servant leader Bro. Mike Velarde at the launching of Christian-Muslim Democratic Coalition for BBM-SARA and Federalism at the El Shaddai International House of Prayer, Amvel Business Park, Parañaque City.

Labor official: No to lifting deployment ban A LABOR official has dismissed proposals to lift the ban on the deployment of Filipino workers in some parts of the Middle East, saying it may be unwise to do so at this time. Labor Attaché Alejandro Padaen of the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Lebanon said officials should first consult with people on the ground and carefully study the situation in destination countries before policy pronouncements are made. Abdullah Mama-o, newly appointed secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers is eyeing the lifting of suspension on the deployment of newly hired skilled and household service workers to Saudi Arabia and other countries in the region including Libya and Iraq. Citing the particular case of Lebanon, Padaen said the country must still recover from the political and economic turmoil, and has yet to conclude an agreement on a standard contract, especially those covering domestic workers. “Considering the economic aspect, it may not be the right time yet to deploy new hires in Lebanon. Several companies have closed down and we have not been deploying household service workers since 2007,” said the Labor Attaché in a virtual media briefing last week. “The Balik-Manggagawa that we process are those who have relatives here and have come through informal channels. It will be better if we assess first and study the situation before we start deploying again,” he added. In January 2020, the Department of Foreign Affairs raised the Alert Level in Lebanon from 1 (Precautionary Phase) to 2 (Restriction Phase). OFWs with existing employment contracts and are registered under the Balik Manggagawa Program are allowed return to Lebanon. Accordingly, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration issued POEA Governing Board Resolution 08 series of 2020 which suspends the processing and deployment of newly-hired workers bound for Lebanon, including crew changes, embarkation, disembarkation, and shore leaves for seafarers.

Go toasts Thoracic, Critical Center opening in San Juan City By Macon Ramos-Araneta IN LINE line with the government’s efforts to enhance, capacitate, and build more health facilities nationwide to cope with the increasing demands for medical care caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and other diseases, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go commended the opening of Center for Thoracic and Critical Care Medicine in San Juan City. Located at the Cardinal Santos Medical Center, the CTCCM provides specialized medical services for patients with restrictive and obstructive lung diseases. It also caters to post-operative pa-

tients who require ventilatory support. During the event, Go vowed to keep pushing for measures to strengthen the country’s healthcare system. He noted that President Rodrigo Duterte was expected to sign into law a new batch of local hospital measures that Go, as Chair of the Committee on Health and Demography, sponsored in the Senate. He said the President was set to sign 15 more Hospital Bills. “Fifteen more local hospital measures I sponsored are set to be enacted into law by Duterte,” said Go. His experience personally getting in touch with people across the country and visiting hospitals even before the

pandemic inspired him to advocate for policies that would improve the country’s healthcare system. Go has been consistent in supporting initiatives to improve the country’s health facilities, especially amid the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. He had successfully pushed for the enactment of 24 local hospital bills earlier. In addition, some of the measures aim to upgrade the Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital in Legazpi City, Albay into a general and subspecialty hospital to be known as the Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center; and the Don Jose S. Monfort Medical

Bangsamoro gov’t plans vax days THE Bangsamoro regional government is planning to hold special COVID-19 vaccination days next month in a bid to raise inoculation coverage, a local health official said Sunday. Dr. Amirel Usman, director general of the Bangsamoro Ministry of Health, said local officials were eyeing to give the jab to 215,776 people during the special vaccination days, which will be held on the following dates: Basilan (May 11-13, May 16-18); Lanao del Sur (May 16-20); Maguindanao (May 17-19); Sulu (May 1113); Tawi-Tawi (May 18-20); Marawi City (May 5-7); and Lamitan City (May 11-13). So far, there are 959,694 fully vaccinated individuals in the Bangsamoro region, representing 28 percent of the target population, Usman said. He said there was a sufficient supply of vaccines in the region and hesitancy among the residents is the main reason for the low coverage.

DUALTECH SCHOLARSHIPS. Dualtech Training Center Foundation, Inc. receives donations for 15 more RCM Dualtech Scholarship Program scholars under the RCManila Foundation Inc. program. Chosen were eight young boys from Bohol and seven young girls from Bataan. The boys take up a 2-year Electromechanic Technology Course while the girls undergo a 1-year culinary arts program run by the Punlaan School, with 7 months of On-the-job-training. Those in photo include Program Co-Chairman and Star Rotarian Anton Mauricio, Dualtech Sponsorships Manager Rommel Tejada, and Dualtech Executive Director Jerry Muhi.

Vargas promises to push ‘Jobs Next Bill’ QUEZON City Councilor PM Vargas has vowed to champion the Jobs Next Bill in the next Congress, which seeks to provide better employment and skills training opportunities for the next generation of Filipinos. The Jobs Next Bill, filed in the 18th Congress as House Bill 9782 principally authored by his brother, incumbent 5th District Quezon City Rep. Alfred Vargas, is like Singapore’s Skills Future program. This aims to provide a skills voucher program to capacitate Filipinos with new and emerging skills for jobs of the future. Vargas said the Jobs Next Bill would encourage and boost

worker upskilling and reskilling to stimulate innovation literacy and protect the labor force in jobs at high risk of displacement due to technological and external disruptions. “As the country slowly pivots to recovery measures, this presents a window of opportunity to rethink how economies and businesses will react and adapt to the ‘new normal,’ the QC councilor said in a statement. “It is an opportunity to build and shift to resilient and sustainable economic and business reforms that will maximize the realities of an uncertain environment and protect Filipino workers and industries from unemployment crises,” Vargas said.

Center Extension Hospital in Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo into a tertiary hospital to be known as the Don Jose S. Monfort Medical Center. He also sponsored bills to increase the bed capacity of several hospitals, including Dr. Paulino J. Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija from 400 to 1,000 beds; Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center in San Fernando City, La Union from 300 to 800 beds; Northern Mindanao Medical Center in Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental from 600 to 1,200 beds; and Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center in Cebu City from 1,200 to 1,500 beds.

‘Convincing win for BBM-Sara in Pangasinan’

MONDAY, APRIL 11, 2022

HOLY WEEK ‘PABASA.’ Parishioners of the San Guillermo in Talisay, Batangas start the annual “pabasa” on Palm Sunday, April 10. “Pabasa” is also known as Pasyon is popular during the Holy Week involving the uninterrupted chanting narrating the life, passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Danny Pata

News

‘More lawmakers switch to BBM’ W

ITH less than 30 days left before the May 9 elections, Rep. Michael “Mike” Defensor (Anakalusugan) sees more members of Congress and local executives swinging their political support in favor of presidential candidate Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and vice-presidential running mate Sara “Inday” Duterte in the days ahead. “Every politician wants to be in the good graces of the next president. Nobody really wants to stick out like a sore thumb as the governor of a province, or the mayor of a city, or the representative of a district where the next president lost,” Defensor said in a statement on Sunday.

Defensor is the Marcos-Duterte tandem’s mayoral candidate for Quezon City, the country’s largest city by population and registered voters. Defensor is running against Joy Belmonte, a known ally of Vice President Leni Robredo. Based on the latest surveys, Defensor described as “unbeatable” the

Leni gets warm Pampanga welcome; Pangasinenses pack ‘Talindeg’ meet By Rio N. Araja DESPITE non-endorsement from the influential Pinedas in Pampanga, local officials and residents have warmly welcomed Vice President and presidential bet Leni Robredo and her running-mate Senator Francis Pangilinan here. The Leni-Kiko tandem paid a courtesy call to Pampanga Gov. Dennis Pineda and his mother Vice Gov. Lilia Pineda. Many of the mayors, barangay chiefs, Pampanga Rep. Aurelio Gonzales and ex-congresswoman Anna York Bondoc welcomed Robredo and Pangilinan. Robredo said she and her team were welcomed by the Pinedas despite the fact they were not the candidates the Pinedas support. In Pangasinan, 76,000 people gathered at a grand rally aptly called “Talindeg” – which means to make stand – to show their

support for the presidential candidate. Allegations of harassment of Robredo’s supporters cast a cloud on the festive campaign sortie, but the Vice President, who recently enjoyed a nine percent jump in voter preference in the recent Pulse Asia survey, remained undaunted. Robredo said this is not the first time that this happened. However, despite the difficulties, supporters found ways to attend the rallies for Robredo. Robredo received the support of Pangasinan’s political stalwarts led by former Speaker Jose de Venecia III and former Pangasinan Rep. Gina de Venecia, with their son, 4th District Rep. Christopher “Toff” de Venecia. They were joined by four incumbent mayors, three vice mayors, one former mayor, three mayoral candidates, and municipal councilors from 10 cities.

Marcos-Duterte tandem’s “commanding lead” in the races for president and vice president. Defensor expects politicians who are still supporting other presidential and vice-presidential candidates “to flee and jump off their sinking ships” and rally behind the Marcos-Duterte tandem. “We would not be surprised if Bongbong is now receiving phone calls from members of Congress, governors, and mayors conveying their assurances that they are absolutely committed to supporting him as the next president,” Defensor said. Defensor’s remarks came not long after Sen. Juan Miguel “Migz”

LENI IN PAMPANGA. Presidential candidate Vice President Leni Robredo and her running mate, Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, receive the endorsement of Pampanga’s local leaders and 220,000 supporters who joined the Manalakaran: Pampanga People’s Rally at Robinsons Star Mills on Saturday. Robredo waves a pink lantern and shakes hands with eager supporters onstage. VP Leni Media Bureau

Lacson urges Filipinos to ‘make yourself heard’ By Macon Ramos-Araneta INDEPENDENT presidential candidate Sen. Panfilo Lacson on Sunday urged the public to stop being silent and to start making themselves heard. Lacson made the comment in a supporter’s rally he attended with and running-mate Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III at the Quezon Memorial Circle. “Thank you ‘Pure Love’, ‘True Friends’, ‘Lacson Sotto Support

Group’for organizing your ‘Supporters Rally’ and making it happen today. It’s time to stop being silent. Get out of your echo chamber to be heard by the people. No balloons, no umbrellas, no props. Just pure love,” Lacson said. The tandem, along with their families received a rousing welcome from the supporters who organized the event that started in the afternoon and lasted past 8 p.m. During the rally, Lacson said there is

ISKO’S CEBU SORTIE. Supporters

of presidential candidate and Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, wave at his team’s campaign rally dubbed as “Daghang Salamat, Tersero” a free concert at the Toledo Sports Center Cebu city on Saturday. Norman Cruz

‘SWITCH TO ISKO.’

At least 60 volunteers of “Switch to Isko” movement from the National Capital Region have recently toured Naguillan, Isabela to meet with the other supporters in the province to show support for the presidential candidacy of Manila Mayor Isko Moreno in the 2022 polls.

Zubiri and his father, Bukidnon Gov. Jose Maria Zubiri Jr., publicly declared their support for Marcos and Duterte. The Zubiris previously kept a neutral stance and avoided endorsing candidates for president and vice president. In the March 17-21 Pulse Asia survey, Marcos held on to his huge lead in the presidential race. He is favored by 56 percent of the voters, whereas Robredo is favored by only 24 percent. In a separate March 17-22 poll by Laylo Research Strategies, Marcos fared even better. He is preferred by 61 percent of the voters, whereas Robredo is preferred by only 19 percent.

DAGUPAN CITY, PANGASINANIncumbent Vice Governor Mark De Guzman Lambino expressed confidence that vote-rich Pangasinan will deliver a convincing victory for the tandem of former Senator Ferdinand “Bong-Bong” Marcos Jr. and Davao City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte come May 9, 2022 polls. Lambino made this assessment after former Speaker Jose De Venecia and his family endorsed the presidential bid of Vice President Leni Robredo in a campaign rally held in Dagupan City last April 8. Lambino, the highest elected official of Lakas CMD in Pangasinan, assured that their group, the Alyansang Guico-Lambino (AGUILA) remains committed to the BBM-Sara ticket. “I believe that solid north is still alive, and our provincemates will unite to support BBM (Marcos) and Mayor Sara (Duterte),” the reelectionist vice governor emphasized. During the rally, Cong. Christopher De Venecia (4th District, Pangasinan) said that his family’s endorsement for VP Robredo will further crack the solid north bailiwick of one presidential candidate which was attributed to Marcos Jr.. However, the De Venecia endorsement to VP Robredo was contested by former 1st District Cong. Arthur F. Celeste saying that “the De Venecias are no longer influential in Pangasinan unlike before.” “In 2016, they (De Venecias) who were with the Liberal Party campaigned hard for Mar Roxas for president and Leni Robredo for vice president , but they (Mar-Leni) lost miserably in Pangasinan despite the massive resources of the yellows then”, he said. Celeste, who is making a congressional comeback and sure to win, recalled that even the partylist “Inang Mahal” of former Congresswoman Manay Gina De Venecia did not garner substantial votes in Pangasinan.

much work to do with just one month left in the campaign period. He said supporters can make a difference by convincing their families and neighbors to vote for the most competent, qualified, and experienced candidates. “Our work is not finished. Once we go home tonight, we have much to do in preparation for May 9. Let us talk to our families and neighbors and ask them to vote for the most qualified, experienced and competent - that’s Senate President Sotto and me,” he said.

Isko vows more protection for OFWs under his administration AKSYON Demokratiko standardbearer Francisco Isko Moreno Domagoso vowed Saturday that given the chance, he will seek stronger international trade agreements and institute national programs and policies to ensure the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). “First, we must sign bilateral labor agreements, especially in Saudi

Arabia, to protect our OFWs. And we must sign any other agreement also for undocumented Filipinos abroad to have the same benefits, at the very least health care system. I don’t want the situation to happen again with a domestic helper in Hong Kong, who had COVID and was thrown by her boss on the street. Sad, but it happened,” Moreno said. Rey E. Requejo

Rody endorses Belgica, Marcoleta for Senate seat PRESIDENT Rodrigo Roa Duterte vouched for the “impressive” track record of senatorial aspirants, former Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) chairperson Greco Belgica and House Deputy Speaker Rolando Marcoleta. This, after Duterte admitted that he was one of the people who lobbied Greco and Marcoleta to join the May

9, 2022 senatorial race. During the President’s Chatroom aired on state-run PTV-4 on Saturday night, Duterte expressed hope that the Filipino electorate would vote for Greco whom he praised for his performance and anti-corruption initiatives during his stint at the PACC. Greco, during his one-on-one meet-

ing with Duterte, assured the Chief Executive of the continuity of the outgoing administration’s policies and programs, including the anti-narcotics campaign. Greco also vowed to maintain peace and order in the country, strengthen the justice system, and introduce amendments to the “passive” anticorruption law.

Gordon eyes ‘first world’ transformation for PH By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Richard J. Gordon said he will stick with his desire to transform the Philippines into a first-world country in the future through his effective legislation if reelected. Gordon, who is seeking a fresh

term in the Senate, vowed to focus on crafting laws that would enrich the national landscape. “My priority has always been the same. When are we going to be a firstworld country? I did that in Subic. I did that in tourism. We became competitive with WOW Philippines,” said Gordon,

“Our platform should be, make the Philippines first. it’s not only because we wanted to be the first. We will not be first if our education is rotten,” he added. Ever since he first entered public service, it has been Gordon’s mission to uplift the common man by bringing out their best at what they do.

Opinion ‘This is where your taxes go’

DURING the last quarter of 2021, the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee started a probe on COVID-19 response supplies delivered by Pharmally to the government, which the senators claim, had been grossly overpriced. According to estimates, the supplies may have been overpriced by at least P5 billion. Among those investigated was Pharmally’s financial manager Lin Weixiong, who is married to Rose Nono Lin, a congressional candidate in District 5 in Quezon City. Despite several “invitations” to the Senate hearing, Lin Weixiong never showed up. It was then Rose was summoned to the Senate hearing, she also being a former executive of Pharmally. Rose also refused to attend the hearing, prompting the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee to issue an arrest warrant against her. But citing health reasons and the need to undergo a surgery, the arrest warrant against Rose was suspended. Later on, Rose was also able to secure a temporary restraining order against the Senate in enforcing the arrest warrant against her. Now, what’s new with Rose Nono Lin? Last week, members of the Koalisyon Novalenyo Kontra Korapsyon and Alyansa ng mga Mamamayan ng Bagbag filed a complaint against Rose and several others for alleged vote buying activities “under the pretense of ‘ayuda’ (cash aid) or ‘scholarship.” According to the group, “even before the filing of respondent Lin’s certificate of candidacy and beyond March 25, 2022, when the official local campaign period started, respondents undertook a concerted and coordinated scheme to buy votes of tens of thousands of Novaleños, and that even now, the vote buying scheme continues in one of the many headquarters.” Aside from Rose, 16 others identified as the businesswoman’s close associates in Barangay Sta. Lucia and Barangay Novaliches Proper, some of whom were said to be barangay councilors, were included in the complaint. The complainants alleged Lin’s team gives stubs to “selected” Quezon City voters, telling them to proceed to any of Lin’s three “headquarters” in Barangay San Bartolome for the supposed payout of ₱500 each.

To avail of the so-called ayuda, the complainants said, residents were asked to submit their personal details and a valid ID. Their photos are also supposedly taken for another ID to be issued. Afterwards, the voters who registered for the ayuda are asked to wait for hours while a video presentation about Rose Lin is played through a projector. Other times, they said Lin and other councilors were physically present to speak before the crowd. After waiting, the complainants claimed the voters are told to enter a separate room, where the QR code located at the back of their issued ID will be scanned and thereafter, a small brown envelope containing 500 pesos will be handed to them. And reportedly, all those who have registered are given their daily dose of P500. So, what’s the implication of this?

A former Pharmally executive is seeking a congressional post.

Rose Nono Lin is being investigated for a multi-billion peso overpricing by the Senate, which involves taxpayers’ money. And here she is allegedly giving out P500 to each voter who will register under her camp as if she is merely giving out campaign leaflets. If indeed the allegations of overpricing in the Senate hearing and the complaint of this group are true, it is our hard-earned money she is indiscriminately giving out. Is this where our taxes are supposed to go? I don’t pay my taxes to be used for vote-buying as alleged by the Koalisyon Novalenyo Kontra Korapsyon and Alyansa ng mga Mamamayan ng Bagbag. Imagine someone being investigated for possible involvement in a multibillion plunder case being accused of vote-buying. What then can we expect from her in the event she gets elected to Congress? We just hope Commission on Elections Commissioner George Garcia makes good his promise for the poll body to investigate the matter as soon as possible. It’s either the poll body clears her or disqualifies her and brings her to court. If she is cleared of any wrongdoing, so be it. We have to respect the decision. But if she is found to be guilty, then spare us.

Arguments for space tourism By Lucie Aubourg TO ITS many detractors, space tourism amounts to nothing more than joy-rides for the global super rich that will worsen the planet’s climate crisis. But the nascent sector also has supporters, who, while not rejecting the criticism outright, argue the industry can bring humanity benefits too. More research opportunities The first argument is that private spaceflights, in addition to their customers, can send to space scientific experiments that require microgravity environments. In the past, national agencies “it used to take quite a long time to work within government grant channels, get approval, get the funding, get picked to be among the very select few that could go,” Ariel Ekblaw, of the MIT Space Exploration Initiative told AFP. By contrast, it took Ekblaw just six months from signing a contract to sending her research project to the International Space Station on board the private Ax-1 mission, which blasted off Friday thanks to the private entrepreneurs paying for the trip. Her experiment, called TESSERAE, involves smart tiles that form a floating robotic swarm that can self-assemble into space architecture -- which might be how future space stations are built. An earlier prototype was flown to space for a few minutes aboard a Blue Origin suborbital spaceflight, paving the way for the new test. “The proliferation of these commer-

cial launch providers does allow us to do riskier, faster and more innovative projects,” said Ekblaw. Virgin Galactic, for its part, has announced plans to take scientists on future flights. Better space technology Space tourism, and the private space sector overall, also acts as an innovation driver for getting better at doing all things related to space. Government agencies, which operate with taxpayers’ money, move cautiously and are deeply-averse to failure -- while companies like Elon Musk’s SpaceX don’t mind blowing up prototype rockets until they get them right, speeding up development cycles. Where NASA focuses on grand exploration goals, private companies seek to improve the rate, profitability and sustainability of launches, with reusable vessels -- and in the case of Blue Origin, rockets that emit only water vapor. For now, spaceflight remains a risky and expensive endeavor. “The more we go to space, the better we become at space, the more an industry base arises to support space technology,” said Mason Peck, an aeronautics professor at Cornell University who previously served as NASA’s chief technologist. A parallel can be drawn with the early era of aviation, when flying was limited to the privileged few. “We started out with lots of accidents, and lots of different companies with different kinds of ideas for how to build airplanes,” explained George Nield, for-

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EDITORIAL

Taking pause, taking stock

HATEVER one’s religious orientation, Holy Week in the Philippines is typically a time to pause – for many different reasons. Practicing Catholics commemorate the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, giving way to the salvation of mankind. But millions of Filipinos also see this coming week as an opportunity to rest and take a break from their normal routine. Because of the cancellation of work and school for several days, many are able to stay home, reconnect with family, go on vacation, catch up on their reading, do some overdue housekeeping, or reach out to friends with whom they have not spoken in a while. Doing nothing is another attractive option. But the coming days are a chance to reflect, as well, on how we have been living, and whether this is actually

The coming week presents a great opportunity for reflecting on the all-important decision we will make in May. aligned to the purpose and direction we have set for ourselves. This year is no different, and in fact might carry greater weight than in previous years. Coming from a two-year, still-unfinished crisis that is the COVID-19 pandemic, we have come face-to-face with our own fragility and mortality, and been reminded to appreciate simple things every day because nothing lasts. Now that restrictions are being loosened, we are also grappling with restoring economic and social activity while remaining cautious lest we get sick – or

cause others to get sick. We try to be flexible in adopting practices learned during the lockdowns and combining these with what we used to know as “normal.” Most of all, now that we are just a few weeks away from the May elections,we should take pause and reflect on the all-important decision we are going to make. Why are we voting? For whom are we voting? What kind of people are we voting into office? WIth all the noise around us it may be easy to get carried away by the fanfare, with common sense getting drowned in the process. Let us refuse to be manipulated into thinking that we should elect someone just because they are who they are. Look at what they have done. Note how they are conducting their campaign. Imagine what they are likely to do. Let’s take the opportunity to ponder how next month’s decision will affect the succeeding years in our nation’s history. Let there be quiet, and let us make use of that quiet to let some basic truths emerge.

Honor the legacy of our heroes APRIL 9th was the 80th commemoration of ‘Araw ng Kagitingan’ (Day of Valor), a day when 76,000 Filipino and American soldiers were forced to surrender after the heroic defense of Bataan from Japanese imperial forces. Over 20,000 prisoners died in the infamous 150-kilometer Bataan Death March. This episode in World War II is seen as a strategic event that bought time for the allies to regroup and re-engage in battles that stopped the Japanese in the pacific and eventually turned the tide of the war. On April 8, 2022, just a day before this historic holiday honoring the heroes of Bataan, the Philippine and US military celebrated the success of ‘Balikatan 2022’, the biggest joint military exercise that mobilized approximately 9,000 participants in exercises along the northern coast of Luzon and Palawan. For the first time, US Army Patriot missile systems were engaged in amphibious exercises in the Philippines. This record-breaking magnitude of the Balikatan exercises sends a strong signal to the Chinese and the littoral states of the South China Sea on US policy. Fighting as brothers in arms galvanizes a profoundly strong bond that all soldiers and their allied nations tend to nurture, which in the case of the Philippines and the United Stated has further deepened into a relationship that has not been perfect but nevertheless endured and remains strong for generations. In the recent international virtual forum hosted by think tank Stratbase Albert del Rosario Institute (ADRi) in partnership with Bower Group Asia (BGA) themed “The Future of US Commitment: The Outlook Under Biden and Beyond”, experts discussed the evolving dynamics of the US foreign policy in Southeast Asia. The event launched

How is it more than a joyride for the super-rich? mer associate administrator for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) office of commercial space transportation. “But gradually, we learned what works, what doesn’t work.” Today, commercial air travel is statistically the safest mode of transport. But what will safer, more efficient spaceflight actually achieve? According to experts, it is currently difficult to imagine the future impact space will have on transport. “Just in the next 10 years, I’m pretty confident that we’re going to see companies that have systems that can have

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

the book titled, “Elusive Balances: Shaping U.S.-Southeast Asia Strategy” by Dr. Prashanth Parameswaran, Deputy Head of Research of BGA, a Fellow of the Wilson Center, and Senior columnist of The Diplomat. Dr. Parameswaran’s analysis translates the importance of ASEAN to Washington while taking issue on some “unlike-minded” states such as Cambodia and Laos which are very vulnerable to Chinese influence. He said that the Biden administration needs to manage threat perceptions, such as its symmetric and asymmetric competition with China as countries in Southeast Asia want to maintain relationships with China for the sake of coexistence and resource constraints. He thinks that if the next Philippine president will be like Duterte who tried to shift the foreign policy on US alliance that there will a huge loss of opportunities.

BGA President and CEO, Ernest Bower IV, said that although the Biden administration has announced its Indo Pacific Strategy and Indo Pacific Economic Framework, engagement in Southeast Asia has been a bit slow and will need more appreciation of the economic components which are most important in the region. James Carouso, Australia Chair of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) and BGA Senior Advisor said that “the pressure from China, especially against countries like Vietnam and the Philippines because of the South China Sea issue, should be an area where there’s greater cooperation between the US and the Philippines to understand what’s the nature of the

threat and what do we do about it.” He pointed out that unlike the postWorld War II global order where everyone is supposed to abide by the rules and smaller countries could feel some assurance, the South China Sea, the US invasion of Iraq, and the invasion of Ukraine has changed the rules to “no rules”. As an ally of the US, how then should we respond given the scenario of Putin’s war in the Ukraine spilling over the NATO countries which Biden repeatedly says not one inch will be lost to Russia? ADRi president, Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit in his statement during the forum said that “as part of an interconnected and networked international society, the Philippines must develop a more responsive and strategic foreign policy that will effectively contribute to the ongoing efforts to collectively manage global and regional issues.” He believes that the Philippines should utilize its expansive network in securing the freedom of the seas and to counter the aggressive behavior of China. “Fostering multilateral and strategic partnerships is imperative if the Philippines is to recover from the consequences of the current administration’s foreign policy decisions and be rightly aligned with the growing global alliance advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific,” he said. With only 28 days before election day, we must vote for leaders who will adopt a rectified foreign policy that will put a stop to the persistent Chinese incursions and continuing plunder and destruction of the maritime resources in our exclusive economic zone. Multilateral cooperation with like-minded countries is key to the protection of national interests and the stability of the region. We need a president who will honor the legacy of our heroes.

people take off from one point on the Earth, and travel to the other side of the Earth, in like an hour,” said Nield, who was on BlueOrigin’s last flight. Such point-to-point travel would probably eventually happen anyway, but space tourism is speeding up its advent, he added. Environmental benefit? The last argument, paradoxically, has to do with the climate. Many of those who have observed Earth from outer space have reported feeling deeply moved by how fragile the planet appears, and overwhelmed by a desire to protect it. The phenomenon was dubbed the “overview effect” by space philosopher Frank White. “It gives you a sense of urgency about needing to be part of the solution,”

stressed Jane Poynter, co-founder of Space Perspective. Her company plans to start flying tourists on a giant high-altitude balloon to observe the Earth’s curvature from a capsule with panoramic views. The vessel was developed precisely for its minimal environmental impact, unlike some highly-polluting rockets. The overall contribution to climate change from rockets is currently minimal, but could become problematic if the number of launches increases. Increased activity in space can also help the planet in more concrete, less philosophical ways, say industry advocates. “Because of the advances in space technology, terrestrial solar cells have become more efficient over the years,” said Peck. AFP

We need a good president to do this.

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MONDAY, APRIL 11, 2022 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Voting starts as Macron eyes new term in tight French poll PARIS—France voted on Sunday in place and still fancies his chances of the first round of a presidential elec- reaching the second round at the extion projected to produce a run-off re- pense of Le Pen or even—in what match between incumbent Emmanuel would be an extraordinary upset— Macron and far-right leader Marine Le President Macron himself. Pen that will be far tighter than their Although her opponents accuse her duel five years ago. of being an extremist bent on dividing Polls opened in mainland France at society, Le Pen has with some success 0600 GMT after an unusual campaign during the campaign sought to show overshadowed by Russia’s invasion a more moderate image and concern of Ukraine that analysts warned could with voters’ daily worries such as rislead to unpredictable outcomes with ing prices. turnout a major factor. Macron by contrast has campaigned French overseas territories already relatively little, by his own admission voted Saturday to take account of the entering the election campaign later time difference, starting with the tiny than he would have wished due to the island of Saint Pierre and Miquelon off war in Ukraine. the coast of Canada and then territories French television channels will broadin the Caribbean followed by French cast projections of the final results, which Pacific islands. are generally highly accurate, as soon as Polls predict that Macron will lead polls close at 1800 GMT Sunday. Le Pen by a handful of percentage If Macron and Le Pen as forecast points in round one, with the top two reach the second round, analysts pregoing through to a second-round vote dict that their clash will be far tighter on April 24. than in 2017 when the current presiFar-left candidate Jean-Luc Melen- dent thrashed his rival with 66 percent chon is snapping at their heels in third of the vote. AFP CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Republic of the Philippines National Capital Judicial Region REGIONAL TRIAL COURT Branch 212, Mandaluyong City IN RE: PETITION FOR THE REISSUANCE OF LOST OWNER’S DUPLICATE OF TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. 008-16155 OF THE REGISTRY OF DEEDS FOR THE CITY OF MANDALUYONG R-MND-22-00219-LR

UK PM WALKS STREETS WITH ZELENSKY

Republic of the Philippines NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION Regional Trial Court Branch 78 Quezon City

Kyiv girds for ‘big battles’ as Ukrainians leave east In re : PETITION FOR ADOPTION OF ANGEL CHRISLENE BENITEZ SANTILLAN AND CHANGE OF NAME TO ANGEL CHRISLENE SANTILLAN MALAPITAN.

S.P. CASE NO. R-QZN-21-09485-SP

ANA MARIE H. DELFINO Petitioner, REGISTRY OF DEEDS FOR THE CITY OF MANDALUYONG, Respondent. x------------------------------------------------x

ORDER

Raffled to this Court on 28 February 2022 is the instant Petition dated 24 February 2022 filed by Petitioner Ana Marie H. Delfino (“Petitioner”) by counsel praying for the reissuance of the owner’s duplicate of Transfer Certificate of Title No. 008-16155 (“TCT No. 008-16155) of the Registry of Deeds for the City of Mandaluyong the original duplicate copy of which is allegedly to have been lost. Petitioner is a Filipino citizen, single, of legal age and a resident of No. 837 Ilang-Ilang Street, Ayala Homes, Brgy. Barangka Drive, Mandaluyong City while Respondent Register of Deeds for the City of Mandaluyong is impleaded as nominal party being the repository of all titles to land and the one issuing Original and Transfer Certificate of Title under the law. The subject property of this petition is located at No. 837 IlangIlang St., Ayala Homes, Brgy. Barangka Drive, Mandaluyong City and covered by TCT No. 008-16155 with forty-four (44) square meters, more or less, registered under the Registry of Deeds of Mandaluyong City with the following technical description: “A parcel of land (lot 30 Blk. 8 of the consolidation and subdivision plan Pcs-04-000118, being a portion of the consolidated lot 17-Q-7-F-1-B-4-D-8-B-1 described on plan Psd-13249 and lot 15 block 55 described on plan Pcs-2239, LRC Rec. Nos. 699, 875 and 917), situated in the Barrio of Barranca, Municipality of Mandaluyong, Metro Manila Containing an area of FORTY-FOUR (44) Square Meters more or less xxx” The Petitioner’s late brother, Conrado H. Delfino (“Conrado”) is the Vendee-mortgagor of the Subject Property as part of his employer’s housing benefit project for employees, his employer being the Vendee-Mortgagee. Petitioner is the legitimate sister and one of the heirs of Conrado who died intestate on 17 March 2018 – with no ascendants nor descendants. Conrado authorized his salary to be deducted by his employers and/or the Vendor-Mortgagee for the payment of the housing loan on the Subject Property until his retirement. The Certificate of Title was given to Conrado, after his retirement on February 1995. The mortgage was released after Conrado’s retirement – as confirmed by BPI-PHILAMLIFE ASSURANCE CORPORATION (formerly Ayala Life Assurance Incorporated/Filipinas Life Assurance Company). Additionally, BPI Family Savings Bank, Inc. issued a certification that the certificate of title is not in their possession or custody. Petitioner paid the annual real property tax on the Subject Property. During the lifetime of Conrado, he was not able to effect the transfer of title in his name because he was preoccupied with his side work. However, the certificate of title for TCT No. 008-16155 was kept by him in his drawer in his room. Petitioner knew of said fact because she was living with their deceased brother. When Conrado died, Petitioner and her siblings checked the drawer where the said title was kept. It was then when they discovered that the aforesaid title was missing in the drawer. Petitioner and her family exerted diligent efforts to find the title but the same proved futile such that TCT No. 008-16155 is now deemed lost and beyond recovery. After Conrado’s death, his heirs (including Petitioner) executed an Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate of Conrado with waiver of share by the heirs of Conrado before Atty. Gabriel P. Corton, a Notary Public of Mandaluyong City under Doc. No. 45, Page 9, Book No. I, Series of 2019. By virtue of a Special Power of Attorney executed on 3 December 2021 by the heirs of Conrado H. Delfino before Atty. Rogelio J. Bolivar, a Notary Public of Quezon City, under Doc. No. 401, Page No. 82, Book No. XIX, Series of 2021, Petitioner was appointed as the authorized representative to execute an Affidavit of Loss and file a Petition for the Reissuance of TCT No. 00816155. The Affidavit of Loss was annotated by the Registry of Deeds obtained a tax clearance which states that real property taxes until 2022 for the Subject Matter has already been paid. The Subject Matter was neither mortgaged, sold, conveyed, disposed of, or encumbered to any person or entity, nor was it ever confiscated nor relinquished in favor of any government entity, agency or authority. Hence, the instant petition with a prayer to declare the Owner’s Duplicate Copy of TCT No. 008-16155 to have been lost, null and void and that the Respondent Register of Deeds for Mandaluyong City to issue a New Owner’s Copy of TCT No. 008-16155 to Petitioner. After a careful evaluation of the instant verified Petition as well as supporting documents attached thereto as annexes (Exhibits “A” to “R” and submarkings), the court finds the same sufficient in form and substance. ACCORDINGLY, let the instant Petition be set for hearing on 05 May 2022 at 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon before this court located at the 2nd Floor, New Hall of Justice Building, Mandaluyong City Hall Compound, Maysilo Circle, Mandaluyong City, on which date, time and place, Petitioner shall appear and prove her petition, and that all persons having any opposition therein may appear and show cause if any why the petition should not be granted. MOREOVER, let this Order be published once in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines at the expense of the Petitioner, the same to be raffled at the Office of the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court of Mandaluyong City. FURTHER, let copies of this Order be posted at the main entrance of Mandaluyong City Hall Building, at the Bulletin Board of the New Hall of Justice Building and at the Barangay Hall where the subject property is located for a period of thirty (30) days prior to the scheduled date of hearing indicated above. FINALLY, Petitioner is hereby directed to cause the service of this Order together with a copy of the petition and all its annexes upon the following government agencies- Register of Deeds, Mandaluyong City; Commissioner, Land Registration Authority, Quezon City; Secretary, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Quezon City; Director, Land Management Bureau, Quezon City; Office of the City Prosecutor, Mandaluyong City and City Legal Department, Mandaluyong City. SO ORDERED. Mandaluyong City, Philippines. 07 March 2022 Cc:

BRIT PROTEST. A woman paints her face in the national colors of Ukraine as people stage a “die-in” at a protest in support of the European country outside the gates of Downing Street in central London on April 9. AFP

(Sgd.) RIZALINA T. CAPCO-UMALI Judge

ATTY. ALWHILAN A. BALJON Counsel for the Petitioner BALJON LAW OFFICES 90 General Kalentong Street Brgy. Pag-asa, Mandaluyong City OFFICE OF THE CITY PROSECUTOR Mandaluyong City REGISTER OF DEEDS Mandaluyong City THE COMMISSIONER LAND REGISTRATION AUTHORITY Quezon City

THE DIRECTOR LAND MANAGEMENT BUREAU Quezon City THE SECRETARY DENR Quezon City OFFICE OF THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT Mandaluyong City

SPOUSES WILFREDO MALAPITAN AND AILENE SANTILLAN MALAPITAN, Petitioners. x-------------------------------------------------- x

ORDER

RAMATORSK—Ukraine is preparing for “big battles” against Moscow’s forces in the east of Finding the PETITION and its attachments sufficient in form the country, officials in Kyiv said, as and substance, the same is set for hearing for the presentation of jurisdictional thousands of civilians flee in fear of an requirements/initial hearing on MAY 18, 2022, at exactly 8:30 o’clock in the morning before this Court sitting at Room 203 Second Floor Hall of Justice Annex Building, Quezon imminent Russian offensive. City Hall Compound, Diliman, Quezon City.

Evacuations resumed on Saturday from Kramatorsk, inthis Order be published in a NEWSPAPER of Let copy of national circulation eastern Ukraine, where a missile strike killed 52 people at a selected by a Raffle under the supervision of the Honorable Executive Judge of the Regional Trial Court of railway station a day earlier, as British Prime Minister BoQuezon City, at the expense of the petitioners. ris Johnson became the latest Western leader to visit Kyiv. Madam MARIEBEC CARIAGA, the Social Worker of the Prime Minister Boris Johnson (left) visits Hailing the country’s response to the RussianCourt invasion, is ordered to conduct British prepare and submit CHILD & HOME REPORTS pertaining the walks herein petitioners, the Kyivtoand with President Volodymyr Zelensky Johnson offered Ukraine armored vehicles andSTUDY anti-ship adoptee and their family; and the Civil as shall partverify of alikewise ‘showwith of solidarity with the Ukrainian missiles to help ensure, he said, that the country will “never Registry the real identity and registered name of the adoptee. people. ’ AFP The same Social Worker shall establish that the child is legally be invaded again”. available for adoption and the documents submitted in support His offer came after President Volodymyr Zelensky said thereof are all valid and authentic; that the petitioners has sincere intention and the adoption shallnational inure to thetelevision, best interest of as the quoted by the Interfax news said on Kyiv was readying for a Russian onslaught. child. “Sadly, in parallel we see the preparations for important agency. If after the conduct of“After the case studies, the social worker findswill meet. It could take two that the presidents battles, some people say decisive ones, in the east,” he said that there are grounds to deny the petition, she shall make the weeks, three.” Saturday at a press conference with visiting Austrian properChanrecommendation to the court furnishing a copy thereof to the petitioners. A video released by Zelensky’s office showed him and cellor Karl Nehammer. walking through largely empty city streets to Kycopies of thisJohnson Order be furnished the Office of the Solicitor “We are ready to fight and to look in parallel toLetend this General, the City iv’s Prosecutor of Quezon City, Assistant City historic Maidan Square, as snipers kept watch. war through diplomacy.” Prosecutor Arnel F. Pabellar, DSWD, the NSO, the City Civil The two men greeted passersby, and one visibly emoRegistrar of Quezon City and the petitioners for their perusal and Zelensky’s adviser Mykhaylo Podolyak said Ukraine immediate reference. must beat back Russia in the eastern Donbas region, where tional man called out to Johnson: “We need you.” Johnson saidwhereby the discovery City Civil Registrar of Manila, the proposedof scores of civilian bodies in Moscow controls two separatist territories, beforeThe a meetadoptee is registered, and any one/offices who wishes to oppose Ukrainian towns had polluted” Putin’s repuing can take place between the Ukrainian leaderinstant andpetition Rus-including the Civil Registrar General“permanently are likewise tation. ordered to appear on the above mentioned scheduled hearing to sian President Vladimir Putin. show cause why this petition should notinto be granted. Six weeks Russia’s invasion, Moscow has shifted its “Ukraine is ready for big battles. Ukraine must win them, focus to eastern andmust southern petitioners and the proposed adoptee personally Ukraine after stiff resistance including in the Donbas. And once that happens,The Ukraine appear and the former must testify before the undersigned thwarted plans to swiftly capture Kyiv. AFP will have a more powerful negotiating position,” he of this Court. presiding Judge Republic of the Philippines NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION Regional Trial Court Branch 78 Quezon City

(Sgd.) FERNANDO T. SAGUN, JR. Presiding Judge (MStandard-Apr. 11, 18, & 25, 2022)

In re : PETITION FOR ADOPTION OF ANGEL CHRISLENE BENITEZ SANTILLAN AND CHANGE OF NAME TO ANGEL CHRISLENE SANTILLAN MALAPITAN. S.P. CASE NO. R-QZN-21-09485-SP SPOUSES WILFREDO MALAPITAN AND AILENE SANTILLAN MALAPITAN, Petitioners. x-------------------------------------------------- x

ORDER

This is a Verified petition filed by the SPOUSES WILFREDO MALAPITAN & AILENE SANTILLAN MALAPITAN on November 15, 2021 for the purpose of adoption of minor ANGEL CHRISLENE BENITEZ SANTILLAN and application for change of his name from ANGEL CHRISLENE BENITEZ SANTILLAN to ANGEL CHRISLENE SANTILLAN MALAPITAN. Finding the PETITION and its attachments sufficient in form and substance, the same is set for hearing for the presentation of jurisdictional requirements/initial hearing on MAY 18, 2022, at exactly 8:30 o’clock in the morning before this Court sitting at Room 203 Second Floor Hall of Justice Annex Building, Quezon City Hall Compound, Diliman, Quezon City. Let copy of this Order be published in a NEWSPAPER of national circulation selected by a Raffle under the supervision of the Honorable Executive Judge of the Regional Trial Court of Quezon City, at the expense of the petitioners. Madam MARIEBEC CARIAGA, the Social Worker of the Court is ordered to conduct prepare and submit CHILD & HOME STUDY REPORTS pertaining to the herein petitioners, the adoptee and their family; and shall verify likewise with the Civil Registry the real identity and registered name of the adoptee. The same Social Worker shall establish that the child is legally available for adoption and the documents submitted in support thereof are all valid and authentic; that the petitioners has sincere intention and the adoption shall inure to the best interest of the child. If after the conduct of the case studies, the social worker finds that there are grounds to deny the petition, she shall make the proper recommendation to the court furnishing a copy thereof to the petitioners. Let copies of this Order be furnished the Office of the Solicitor General, the City Prosecutor of Quezon City, Assistant City Prosecutor Arnel F. Pabellar, DSWD, the NSO, the City Civil Registrar of Quezon City and the petitioners for their perusal and immediate reference. The City Civil Registrar of Manila, whereby the proposed adoptee is registered, and any one/offices who wishes to oppose instant petition including the Civil Registrar General are likewise ordered to appear on the above mentioned scheduled hearing to show cause why this petition should not be granted. The petitioners and the proposed adoptee must personally appear and the former must testify before the undersigned presiding Judge of this Court. SO ORDERED. Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines. 26th day of November, 2021. (Sgd.) FERNANDO T. SAGUN, JR. Presiding Judge

(MStandard-Apr. 11, 2022)

SO ORDERED. Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines. 26th day of November, 2021.

(MStandard-Apr. 11, 18, & 25, 2022)

DUMPSTER FIRE. Police officers behind a fire of burning trash during a “Look up” march, to call on the presidential candidates to consider the climate emergency, which protesters say is largely absent from the French campaign, in Paris on April 9. AFP

Bowled out: Pakistan’s cricketer turned PM Imran Khan dismissed ISLAMABAD—Regarded as a wily cricket captain during his international playing days, Imran Khan found himself on a sticky wicket when it came to leading Pakistan. The 69-year-old prime minister was dismissed Sunday following a no-confidence motion in the national assembly, days after he thought he had stymied the opposition by dissolving parliament and calling an early election. The Supreme Court ruled his action illegal Thursday, and having lost his majority in the assembly, Khan ran out of options. Khan enjoyed genuine popular support when he became premier in 2018, but critics say he has failed to deliver on promises to revitalize the economy and improve the lives of the poor. Khan’s Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party was voted in by millions who grew up watching him play cricket, where he excelled as an allrounder and captained Pakistan to World Cup victory in 1992. The PTI overturned decades of dominance by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) -- two usually feuding groups that joined forces to oust him. Khan’s vision was for Pakistan to become a welfare state modelled on the Islamic golden age of the 7th to 14th centuries, a period of cultural, economic, and scientific flourishing in the Muslim world. AFP

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TODAY

Finland gears up for NATO decision HELSINKI—Finland is preparing for a potentially historic decision “before midsummer” on whether to apply to join NATO as a deterrent against Russian aggression. The Nordic nation of 5.5 million has traditionally been militarily non-aligned, in part to avoid provoking its eastern neighbor, with which it shares a 1,300-kilometer (830 mile) border. But Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24 saw public support for joining NATO double from 30 to 60 percent, according to a series of polls. “Never underestimate the capacity of Finns to take rapid decisions when the world changes,” former Finnish prime minister Alexander Stubb told AFP. Himself a long-time NATO advocate, Stubb now believes Finland making a membership application is “a foregone conclusion” as Finns re-evaluate their relationship with their neighbor. Next week a government-commissioned national security review will be delivered to parliament, the Eduskunta, to help Finnish MPs make up their own minds before it is put to a vote. “We will have very careful discussions but not taking any more time than we have to,” Prime Minister Sanna Marin told a news conference on Friday. AFP

S. Arabia to allow 1m hajj pilgrims RIYADH—Saudi Arabia said Saturday it would permit one million Muslims from inside and outside the country to participate in this year’s hajj, a sharp increase after pandemic restrictions forced two years of drastically pared-down pilgrimages. The move, while falling short of reinstating normal hajj conditions, offered hopeful news for many Muslims outside the kingdom who have been barred from making the trip since 2019. One of the five pillars of Islam, the hajj must be undertaken by all Muslims who have the means at least once in their lives. Usually one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, about 2.5 million people took part in 2019. But after the onset of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, Saudi authorities allowed only 1,000 pilgrims to take part. The following year, they increased the total to 60,000 fully vaccinated Saudi citizens and residents chosen through a lottery. This year the Saudi hajj ministry “has authorized one million pilgrims, both foreign and domestic, to perform the hajj”, it said in a pre-dawn statement Saturday. AFP

700-kilo meth haul netted in Hong Kong HONG KONG—Hong Kong customs officials have seized about 700 kilograms of suspected crystal meth sent from Mexico, authorities said Sunday, the biggest haul of the drug in the city’s history. The meth was hidden inside two consignments of heavy industrial gear, said Lee Kam-wing, head of the customs department’s drug investigation bureau. They arrived in the city by air and sea within one week in March. The equipment was arranged to ship from Mexico with a mainland Chinese logistics company, which was also asked to find a Hong Kong company to receive and store it, Lee said. “In that way the drug dealers did not have to show up at all... it’s very cunning,” Lee said. Nearly 450 kg of liquid meth was found in three transformers—each weighing 500 kg—at the city’s airport. That led officers to 253 kg of meth powder with a similar import pattern, which had been stowed inside shock absorption rubbers and had already been transported to a warehouse in a rural area near the mainland border. AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Manila

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MONDAY, APRIL 11, 2022 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

Business leader with a heart WHEN I decided to take up my MBA, I didn’t think so much about where to enroll or what I should consider in looking for a graduate school. I chose De La reen ight Salle University because it’s closer to my work given the prior COVID set-up of face-to-face classes. Still, its prestigious name is an enticing consideration for me to enroll. However, during my time in La Salle, I learned how unique it was, especially for the business school, and what sets it apart from other schools. You would have thought that a Master’s in Business Administration would teach you to run a business, earn profit and be successful, but the Lasallian way teaches you all that and how to do it right. Several trimesters ago, I also had Lasallian Business Leadership, Ethics and CSR. Lasallian business leaders do not solely focus on profit but on how to apply ethics to every decision made for their company or business. I also learned about CSR, or Corporate Social Responsibility, and how companies give back to the community. Most companies have a CSR program to help the environment and the communities by building schools, making campaigns, etc. It gave me a new definition of how I should be once I become a leader. Other subjects also trained us to use our sound judgement in decision-making by applying the Lasallian Reflection Framework. In my Integral Human Development class, I got familiarized with a social enterprise. Investopedia defines a social enterprise or social business as “a business with specific social objectives that serve its primary purpose. Social enterprises seek to maximize profits while maximizing benefits to society and the environment, and the profits are principally used to fund social programs.” We were tasked to find a local social enterprise business so we could share their noble stories through the Aim2Flourish website. That’s what I discovered about the EcoBoom diapers. These diapers are made of bamboo and decompose faster as compared to regular diapers. These bamboo diapers decompose in 147 days compared to regular diapers, which take 400-500 days to decompose, and sit still in the landfills. But what I liked the most about the experience of doing the project is I got to know the person behind this social enterprise and why she chose sustainable products for her business. I met Ms. Valerie Pineda, the owner of EcoBoom Diapers, and she shared and somehow taught me how to live an almost zero-plastic life. She shared that her love for the environment made her start to live with fewer plastics and eventually shared with and encouraged her friends to do the same. Some of her ways include using a menstrual cup, shampoo bars and reusable bags. With her eagerness to lessen waste, she is continuously researching sustainable alternative products that she can offer in the Philippines. Ms. Valerie inspires me because of her mindset on doing business. Her company name is NewEarth Ph. Aside from diapers, she also has baby wipes and compostable face masks. She is dedicated to providing eco-friendly products for Filipinos to lessen waste. Her devotion inspired me because not all business people value our environment more than profit. Now that I am almost at the finish line of my MBA journey, with few terms left, I am delighted that I chose this school. Lasallian MBA values and principles are the best foundation for a successful business leader. There is a vast difference between a leader and an ethical leader, and the latter is how a Lasallian business leader should be.

LIEZL ALIZA SALAMANCA

The author is an MBA student at the Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business, DLSU. She can be reached at liezl_salamanca@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.

Russia’s ruble rebounds despite tough sanctions MOSCOW, Russia―After a historic collapse in the wake of Russia’s military offensive in Ukraine, the ruble has staged a spectacular bounceback, supported by strict capital controls and energy exports. But analysts say that success is in many ways artificial and does not bode well for the health of the Russian economy. The February 24 military operation triggered unprecedented Western sanctions on Moscow, sending the ruble into free-fall and accelerating already high inflation. Four days after President Vladimir Putin sent troops into the pro-Western country, the central bank more than doubled its key interest rate to 20 percent to prop up the financial system. In a surprise move on Friday, the central bank lowered the rate to 17 percent, saying risks to financial stability had “ceased to increase” for now. “It’s clear that the Central Bank of Russia assesses that Russia’s economy is now emerging from the most acute phase of its crisis and that such restrictive monetary conditions are no longer warranted,” said Liam Peach, emerging Europe economist at Capital Economics. The ruble’s return to levels last seen before the start of Moscow’s military campaign is a sign that the economy may be adjusting to the sanctions, economists say. Sofya Donets, chief economist at Renaissance Capital, said the ruble recovery has been aided by an unprecedented trade surplus amid high energy prices. “There has been a decline in imports, partly because of sanctions, partly because of uncertainty and logistical disruptions,” she told AFP. “But exports are solid, and with commodity prices high we expect a historically high account surplus of $20-25 billion in March.” AFP

BLACKOUT. People protest outside the headquarters of LUMA Energy, the company that took over the transmission and

distribution of the island’s electric authority, after a blackout hit the island two days earlier, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, April 8, 2022. Most people in Puerto Rico woke up Thursday with no electricity after a blackout hit the entire US island territory in the Caribbean. The Luma electric company said the outage Wednesday evening may have been caused by a failed circuit breaker at a power plant. It said the precise cause was not yet known. AFP

Market investors worry over huge Fed rate hike S By Jenniffer B. Austria

HARE prices are expected to be muted on thin volume during this shortened trading week.

Financial markets will be closed on Thursday and Friday in observance of the lenten season. BDO Unibank Inc. chief investment strategist Jonathan Ravelas said fears of a rapid rate increase in US is affecting global investor sentiment. Traders fear that an aggressive rate hike could temper economic growth and reduce corporate earnings. “Concerns on domestic inflation likely breaking the high-end of the target range of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas in succeeding months also added to the negative sentiments,” said Ravelas. In addition, the recent reported surge in COVID-19 cases in many countries has affected investor sentiments. Amid current market volatility, investors are advised to look out for opportu-

nities to accumulate on stocks that are expected to sustain growth over the long term period. The Philippine Stock Exchange Index last week slipped 1.9 percent to 7.018.02 amid volatile trading conditions. The index dropped to as low as 6,926.03 points before recovering to above 7,000 on concerns about rising interest rates. Except for the mining and oil index, all sub-indices registered week-onweek declines. Holding firms dropped 3.8 percent; property fell 1.2 percent; financials declined 0.8 percent; industrial slipped 0.8 percent; and services dipped 0.4 percent. Foreign investors were net sellers by P938 million, while the average daily value traded fell to P4.7 billion from the previous week’s average of P6 billion. Weekly top price gainers were Vista Land & Lifescapes Inc., which advanced 5.4 percent to P2.73; Puregold Price Club Inc., which climbed 3.6 percent to P37; and PLDT Inc., which rose 2.5 percent to P1,840. Weekly top price losers were Wil-

con Depot Inc., which slid 7.2 percent to P25.15; JG Summit Holdings Inc., which declined 5.8 percent to P56.60; and Manila Water Co. Inc., which fell 5.3 percent to P19.70. Meanwhile, Wall Street stocks mostly fell Friday amid lingering unease over tightening US monetary policy, while the euro gyrated ahead of France’s presidential election. Both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq retreated as the yield on the 10-year US Treasury note climbed above 2.7 percent, a signal markets are preparing for more Federal Reserve monetary tightening. All three major US indices notched losses for the week. “Uneasiness and trepidation appeared to drive a relatively quiet session as investorsManila continued to weigh the potentialStandard implications of a highly aggressive TODAY Fed monetary policy tightening cycle,” Charles Schwab investment bank said in a note. The euro sank as low to $1.0837 before bouncing back, a reflection of uncertainty ahead of Sunday’s first-round French presidential vote. With AFP

Iraqis clean up river as first green projects take root When the water empties into the Gulf, plastic bags are often ingested by turtles and dolphins and block the airways and stomachs of many other species, says a United Nations paper. In Iraq—which has suffered four decades of conflict and years of political and economic turmoil—separating and recycling waste has yet to become a priority for most people. The country also lacks proper infrastructure for waste collection and disposal, said Azzam Alwash, head of the non-governmental group Nature Iraq. AFP

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT of ESTATE Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late TIC CHING CHU GO has been extra-judicially settled among his heirs WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS consisting of cash deposits in MBTC Tacloban Rizal Ave. Branch. As per Apostille No. 99741 before Notary Public ANDREA JAFFIER (California Ventura County); Doc. No. 250; Page No. 50; Book No. I; Series of 2022 before Notary Public ATTY. ELISEO S. CALMA, JR (Quezon City); Doc. No. 183; Page No. 38; Book No. LXXII; Series of 2022 before Notary Public ATTY. CARLOS ALLAN F. CARDENAS (Mandaue City); Doc. No. 77; Page No. 17; Book No. III; Series of 2022 before Notary Public ATTY. JANN CLAUDINE M. AMAGO (Tacloban City). (MS-APRIL 11/18/25, 2022)

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Young Iraqi volunteers take part in a clean-up campaign on the bank of the Tigris river in the Adhamiyah district of the capital Baghdad, on March 11, 2022. Plastic garbage clogs the banks of Iraq’s Tigris River in Baghdad. AFP

By Ammar Karim BAGHDAD, Iraq—Garbage clogs the banks of Iraq’s Tigris River in Baghdad but an army of young volunteers is cleaning it, a rare environmental project in the war-battered country. With boots and gloves, they pick up soggy trash, water bottles, aluminum cans and muddy styrofoam boxes, part of a green activist campaign called the Cleanup Ambassadors. “This is the first time this area has been cleaned since 2003,” shouts a passer-by about the years of conflict since a US-led invasion toppled dictator Saddam Hussein. The war is over but Iraq faces another huge threat: a host of interrelated environmental problems from climate change and rampant pollution to dust storms and water scarcity. The 200 volunteers at work in Baghdad want to be part of the solution, removing garbage from a stretch of one of the mighty rivers that gave birth to the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia. “It breaks my heart to see the banks of the Tigris in this state,” said one 19-year-old volunteer, who gave only her first name, Rassel, working under Baghdad’s Imams Bridge.

“We want to change this reality. I want to make my city more beautiful.” The task is Herculean in a country where it remains common for people to drop their trash on the ground. The green banks of the Tigris, popular for picnics by families and groups of friends, are usually littered with waste, from single-use plastic bags to the disposable tips of hookah pipes, especially after public holidays. Rubbish chokes wildlife “There is a lot of plastic, nylon bags and corks,” said Ali, also 19 and an organizer of the cleanup event. The group then handed their collected waste to the Baghdad City Council which took it away, bound for a landfill. More often the garbage ends up directly in the Tigris. It is one of Iraq’s two major waterways, along with the Euphrates, that face a host of environmental pressures. The rivers or their tributaries are dammed upstream in Turkey and Iran, over-used along the way, and polluted with domestic, industrial and agricultural waste. The trash that flows downriver clogs riverbanks and wetlands and poses a threat to wildlife, both terrestrial and aquatic.

We would like to inform the general Public that the Official Receipt booklet of SKY Cable with series number 1969238 to 1969250 was reported as lost receipts. Any transactions entered and issued with these receipts will be considered null and void. If found, contact us at Jhanrenz Corporation, address #19 -C Abanad Cmpd. S. Villanueva St. Bgy. Ibaba, Malabon City. Tel. No. (02) 83762572 / (02) 89218493. Look for Ms. Tessie San Juan.

(MS-APRIL 2/4/9/11, 2022)

Manila

Standard

TODAY

NOTICE OF TOLL RATE ADJUSTMENT IMPLEMENTATION (VAT Inclusive) (R-1 Expressway) Conformably with the Consolidated Resolution dated 26 January 2022 issued by the Toll Regulatory Board ("TRB") covering the 2011 and 2014 Petitions for Approval of TolI Rate With Application for Provisional Relief for R-1 Expressway of the Manila-Cavite Toll Expressway Project (MCTEP) filed by Philippine Reclamation Authority and UEM-MARA Philippines Corporation (UMPC, now Cavitex Infrastructure Corporation, CIC), the following toll rate adjustments for the use of the R-1 Expressway of the MCTEP are approved and allowed to be implemented immediately, inclusive of Value Added Tax: Vehicle Class Class 1 Class 2 Class 3

R-1 Expressway (Seaside to Zapote), 6.475 kms. Php 31.00 Php 62.00 Php 93.00

SO ORDERED. By Authority of the Board: (Sgd.) ATTY. ALVIN A. CARULLO Executive Director/Hearing Officer Date of First Publication: April 11, 2022

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

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

MONDAY, APRIL 11, 2022

IN BRIEF

Converge raises P10b from retail bond sale

CONVERGE ICT Solutions Inc. said over the weekend it raised P10 billion from the sale of retail bonds whose proceeds will be used to fund network expansion nationwide. Converge ICT co-founder and chief executive Dennis Anthony Uy said the P10 billion would be used to fund future key projects aimed at enhancing the country’s shift to a digital economy. “With the strong support we’ve received from investors, we are confident of expanding our network further to connect the unserved and underserved Filipinos with our pure fiber broadband,” Uy said. This is the first time for the leading fiber broadband provider to tap the domestic bond market to support business plans and expansion, 18 months after the initial public offering of its shares in the Philippine Stock Exchange. “The success of our maiden bond issuance is a boon for us, as it signaled strong investor confidence on the sustained robust growth of the company,” said Converge ICT co-founder and president Maria Grace Uy. Darwin G. Amojelar

Meralco revises terms for bidding of 180 MW

MANILA Electric Co.is seeking an approval from the Department of Energy for the new terms of reference for the rebidding of 180 megawatts of baseload supply needed for the dry months after the first round of auction failed. Meralco first vice president and head regulatory management Jose Ronald Valles said in a letter to the DOE dated April 4 that no prospective bidder submitted an expression of interest by the March 31 deadline. The Third Party Bids and Awards Committee declared the bidding a failure. TPBAC also informed Meralco that a second round of bidding may be conducted pursuant to Section 9 of the 2018 competitive selection process rules. The TBPAC said the TOR might need to be revised to account for the filing before and approval process by the Energy Regulatory Commission of the power supply agreement prior to its implementation and considering that the required contract period is only up to July 25, 2022. Alena Mae S. Flores

Dominguez pushes ASEAN cooperation

FINANCE Secretary Carlos Dominguez III urged his fellow finance ministers and the central bank governors in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to explore new areas of cooperation to collectively contain the economic fallout from the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Dominguez said during the series of meetings of the ASEAN Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Friday the geopolitical development would certainly magnify the dislocations caused by the two-year global battle against the COVID-19 pandemic―and “open a new horizon of risks and aggravate[s] supply chain problems.” He said regional cooperation should focus on sustaining the cross-border movement of people, preserving the flow of goods and services to stimulate the regional market and maintaining ASEAN’s participation in global value chains. Dominguez also said ASEAN should pursue sustainable finance initiatives at the regional level to solidify this economic bloc’s transition towards a sustainable postpandemic recovery. He proposed that finance ministers and central bank governors convene a small group of experts to monitor the situation and submit recommendations for the regional group’s collective approval and implementation. Julito G. Rada

Business 5 investments worth P120b obtain incentives from DOF By Julito G. Rada

HE reconstituted Fiscal Incentives Review Board, chaired by Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, approved in 2021 the grant of tax incentives to five big-ticket projects with a combined investment capital of P119.5 billion.

Finance Assistant Secretary Juvy Danofrata, who heads the FIRB Secretariat, said the five projects granted tax incentives by the FIRB were from the nine applications submitted by the Board of Investments for approval. The rail operations of the proposed Maka-

ti City Subway were the only project in Metro Manila that obtained tax incentives. The four other projects are located outside the metropolis. These are in Iloilo, Davao, Batangas and Pampanga and involve cement manufacturing activities and the construction of mass housing units. One project was disapproved, leaving three more to be decided upon by the board. Danofrata said the FIRB Secretariat continued to hold town hall meetings and consultations with the various investment promotion agencies and publish e-newsletters. Among the challenges that IPAs face is their limited awareness of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act provisions, particularly on the grant of fiscal incentives and the details of the Strategic Investment Priority Plan. She said the FIRB Secretariat conducted three town hall meetings with IPA staff and published three e-newsletters to the IPAs about the CREATE law’s provisions. Dominguez earlier instructed Danofrata

to hold a seminar with the heads of the various investment promotion agencies to provide them the information they needed about the CREATE Law. The FIRB Secretariat launched last year the online system for incentives application known as the Fiscal Incentives Registration and Monitoring System. Instructional videos were uploaded on the FIRB website to guide both the IPAs and the RBEs in accessing and operating the features of FIRMS. Danofrata said that as of Feb. 14, 2022, only 45 FIRMS accounts were registered in the system, reflecting its low utilization rate. She said the FIRB would continue to encourage the use of the FIRMS among the prospective and existing business enterprises in investment promotion agencies, as this system is crucial to facilitating the work of the Secretariat in monitoring the applications for tax incentives of IPA locators with investment amounts of below P1 billion.

LANDBANK’S AWARD. Land Bank of the Philippines president and chief executive Cecilia Borromeo (center) receives the Top 3 Fixed Income Dealing Participant for 2021 award at the 17th PDS Annual Awards Night. With Borromeo are (from left) LandBank asset and liability management group head and first vice president Adelfa Masacupan, treasury and investment banking sector head and executive vice president Carel Halog, investment banking group head and senior vice president Gonzalo Benjamin Bongolan and financial markets group head and first vice president Ma. Francia Titar. The bank was also awarded as Top 5 Corporate Issue Managers/ Arrangers by PDS for 2021.

DOE approves petroleum service contract for Cotabato Basin project By Alena Mae S. Flores ENERGY Secretary Alfonso Cusi issued a petroleum service contract to Mindanao-based SK Liguasan Oil and Gas Corp. for the development of the onshore Cotabato Basin, including the Liguasan Marsh. Cusi confirmed the signing of Petroleum Service Contract No. 77 with SKLOGC last week. The new service contract covers the 72,000-hectare petroleum-prospective area in onshore Cotabato Basin. The basin sits on 1.2-million hectare area in Central Mindanao spanning the provinces of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao,

North and South Cotabato. It also includes Liguasan Marsh. SKLOGC was the challenger for the nominated Area 9 of the Philippine Conventional Energy Contracting Program―a transparent petroleum service contract awarding mechanism that allows the government to develop and utilize indigenous petroleum resources through qualified local and international exploration companies. SKLOGC passed the completeness check under the evaluation criteria in the PCECP guidelines, but the original nominating party, Banaba Oil and Gas Energy Corp., failed to comply with the requirements.

NEW IRRIGATION PROJECT. National Irrigation Administration administrator Ricardo Visaya (fourth from left) leads the soft inauguration of the P622-million Upper Saug River Irrigation Project in Barangay Cabidianan, New Corella, Davao del Norte. The project, through the provision of efficient, reliable and sustainable irrigation service, will benefit 980 hectares of farms spanning over five barangays in the municipality. The construction involved a diversion dam and its pertinent structures, irrigation facilities, supplemental drainage, road systems and slope-protection works.

SKLOGC identified 22 sites in the Maguindanao-Liguasan area that have potential for oil and gas deposits. Cusi endorsed the contract to the Office of the President for final approval, which was subsequently cleared. The DOE said in a letter to SKLOGC in February that the Office of the President granted it the authority to proceed with the awarding of the contract for nominated area 9 “provided that SKLOGC shall submit an undertaking stating, among others, that it shall abide by the final decision of the Supreme Court relative to tax assumption provisions of other existing PSCs.”

PSE INDEX CLOSING Friday, April 8, 2022

91.99 PTS. 7,018.02

TOTAL VOLUME

659,969,645

TOTAL TRADES TOTAL VALUE (IN PHP)

48,837 4,017,683,341.59

ADVANCES DECLINES UNCHANGED

101 66 54

F oreign E xchange R ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2022

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

51.3850

Japan

Yen

0.008068

0.4146

Pound

1.307700

67.1962

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.127588

6.5561

Switzerland

Franc

1.070893

55.0278

Canada

Dollar

0.794407

40.8206

Singapore

Dollar

0.734754

37.7553

Australia

Dollar

0.748000

38.4360

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652520

136.2997

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266624

13.7005

Brunei

Dollar

0.732064

37.6171

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000070

0.0036

Thailand

Baht

0.029851

1.5339

UAE

Dirham

0.272287

13.9915

Euro

1.088100

55.9120

Korea

Won

0.000818

0.0420

China

Yuan

0.157215

8.0785

India

Rupee

0.013177

0.6771

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.237164

12.1867

New Zealand

Dollar

0.689700

35.4402

Taiwan

Dollar

0.034728

1.7845 Source: BSP

VREIT expects Villar Group to add new assets By Jenniffer B. Austria VISTA REIT Inc., the commercial real estate investment trust of Vista Land & Lifescapes Inc., is looking to expand its portfolio via an asset infusion from the Villar Group. VREIT said in a statement over the weekend it is banking on the portfolio expansion program with the robust and diverse pipeline of the profitable assets of Vista Land. Vista Land’s commercial assets include 31 malls, seven office buildings and 69 commercial centers with a combined gross floor area of 1.6 million square meters. Vista Land also has about 3,000 hectares of raw land, also known now as the Vista Estates. These assets were identified as suitable for commercial developments over the long term. VREIT plans to initially acquire Worldwide Corporate Center, a prime office property in Mandaluyong City. VREIT’s initial portfolio is composed of 10 community malls and two PEZA-registered office buildings, with an aggregate gross leasable area of 256,404 square meters. These assets account for over 20 percent of Vista Land’s GFA. It said that aside from asset infusion from Vista Land, VREIT would focus on the competitiveness of Vista Land’s properties in the market when it comes to lease rates. VREIT sees as a key advantage its working synergy with the Villar Group’s retail ecosystem that includes the publicly-listed AllHome and AllDay supermarkets, which are strategically located within the Villar Group’s housing communities around the country. VREIT earlier this month filed a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission for its planned P9.18-billion initial public offering by the middle of the year. Based on its plan, VREIT will offer up to 3.33 billion secondary common shares at a maximum offer price of P 2.50 apiece, with an over allotment option for another 333.75-million secondary common shares.

Joint order stipulating guidelines on online businesses now in effect By Othel V. Campos AN ATTACHED agency of the Department of Trade and Industry has asked platforms, e-retailers and merchants to follow laws and regulations in the sale, distribution and marketing of products over the Internet, as a joint administrative order stipulating guidelines on online businesses is now in effect. Joint Administrative Order No. 22-01 was issued by the DTI, Department of Health, Department of Agriculture, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Intellectual Property of the Philippines and National Privacy Commission to consolidate all rules and guidelines on online businesses. Consumer Policy and Advocacy

Bureau director Melquiades Marcus Valdez II said JAO 22-01 is not a new legislation, but a reiteration of current laws, rules and policies which do not distinguish application between brickand-mortar stores from online stores. Valdez said laws applicable to “offline” businesses are also applicable to online businesses, including the Electronic Commerce Act which facilitates transactions through the use of electronic technology. “The purpose of the JAO primarily is to build consumer confidence in online transactions because consumer trust will allow businesses to grow and businesses that grow contribute to the national economy,” Valdez said in a webinar.

Qatar Airways announces plan to hire more Filipino cabin crew and staff to support global operations By Darwin G. Amojelar QATAR Airways Group said it will hire more staff from the Philippines to support global operations amid the recovery of the travel industry. “Qatar Airways is targeting to recruit a significant number staff from the Philippines, and we will recruit all candidates who are found suitable for the roles. Most of these roles are for cabin crew, lounge staff and contact center

staff,” Qatar Airways chief customer experience officer Rossen Dimitrov said in an email interview. He said the recruitment drive in Philippines would kick off in Manila from April 18 to 21. Recruitment events are also planned across Cebu, Clark and Davao in the coming weeks. “We are thrilled to be able to expand our team with this recruitment exercise in the Philippines, as we excel our recovery in the global aviation sector

while creating job opportunities for the Filipino market,” Dimitrov said. He said that the aviation industry has been in recovery mode for months with the easing of travel restrictions. “APAC [Asia Pacific] has been a little slower with the reopening, but many regions have been opened since end last year and we do see international travel gradually returning to normal. There’s definitely been an increase in ticket bookings in the APAC region and it’s

been very encouraging,” Dimitrov said. He also said the tPhilippines has always been a very key market for Qatar Airways. “Prior to COVID-19, Qatar Airways has three gateways to the Philippines: Manilla, Clark and Davao. We have since added Cebu in July 2020, while pending Davao resumption. Having multiple gateways is always an indication of our commitment to the market as we’re committed to serving these desti-

nations,” Dimitrov said. He said there is a large population of over 250,000 Filipinos working in Qatar, accounting for 17 percent of the population. “This is a significant number, with Qatar being the third largest country for overseas Filipino work force. Thus, the Filipino market is naturally a crucial one for us, and Qatar Airways is committed to serving the country,” Dimitrov said.

Sports

Lucero deflects credit to Maroons

MONDAY, APRIL 11, 2022

Eumir Marcial’s hand is raised by referee Raul Caiz, Jr. (Jhay Otamias)

By Peter Atencio FIL-AM cager Zavier Lucero, who has emerged as the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons’ best shooter and among the season’s top performers, said his teammates are making him look good. Their assistance during screens, in defense and offense, is giving the 6’6” Lucero the needed break to help lift the Fighting Maroons to second place at the close of the first round of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines men’s basketball tournament. “I think coach (Goldwin Monteverde) says it all the time, I’m getting open looks more than some other guys, which is allowing me to be on the scoreboard. But as far as me personally, I don’t do much on my own, I get set up by my guys a lot when there’s a screen, got my guy off that screen in the last three I hit. Mai Mai (Cagulangan) is usually finding me in places. It’s just our team is really growing, and our chemistry is growing and you have seen our offense again,” said Lucero. The 22-year-old Lucero talked about his game as the Maroons soared to a share of no. 2 position with the La Salle Green Archers with their 6-1 record. The Maroons are experiencing their best season since their first-game loss to Ateneo, after UP won its next six to raise its record to 6-1 for solo second. FEU slipped to fifth with a 3-4 record. In the seven games he played, Lucero emerged as among the top individual performers, becoming the no. 1 scorer with his average of 15.29 points and no. 6 in rebounds with 7.43. Far Eastern U’s RJ Abarrientos is the league’s second best performer with his 14.86 points, with Adamson’s Jerom Lastimosa, University of the East’s Kris Pagsanjan and University of Santo Tomas’ Sherwin Concepcion next when it comes to scoring.

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Randy M. Caluag, Assistant Editor

Knocked down thrice, Marcial KOs foe in 4th

ILIPINO Olympian Eumir Felix Marcial weathered three knockdowns en route to a dramatic fourth-round technical knockout win against a game American Isiah Hart Sunday morning (Manila time) at the Virgins Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. Fighting for the first time since claiming a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics in July last year, Marcial started the fight seemingly measuring the skill of his lanky foe when he got tagged with a quick counter right, sending the Zamboangeño falling flat on his back. The 26-year-old Marcial though got up quick from the knockdown and immediately, the Filipino stepped on the gas pedal from then on.

But Marcial being too eager saw him suffer two more trips to the canvass in the second round, both by Hart’s blinding right counter. “He showed great heart, intentional fortitude. He got up, went back to work and just ran off a couple of more bombs. Overall, it was a great learning experience,” said MP President Sean Gibbons, who was at ringside to provide assistance to Team Marcial. By the third, Marcial continued to

pursue Hart but became more cautious until the Tokyo Olympic bronze medalist staggered the American with a left straight to the temple in the fourth round. Referee Raul Caiz, Jr. immediately stepped in to prevent Marcial from unleashing an onslaught on the wobbled New Jersey-based boxer. The end came at :47 of the fourth canto of the fight, where Marcial (20, 1 knockout) trailed on all three judges’ scorecards via identical 2629 tallies. Meanwhile, Marcial and his wife Princess are scheduled to return to the country this week, then will immediately proceed to Thailand to join the National Boxing Team that is gearing up for the country’s campaign in the upcoming Southeast Asian Games set to happen next month in Vietnam.

OTB brand BingoPlus partners with PBA in Season 47

LRWC president Andy Tsui, BingoPlus president Jasper Vicencio and PBA commissioner Willie Marcial sign the MOA.

BASKETBALL fans are going to have fun when the Philippine Basketball Association’s 47th Season begins. Not only will the oldest professional basketball league in Asia have a guest foreign team to make the games more interesting, it will make fans enjoy the experience better with fun and leisure options on the side. BingoPlus, the country’s first licensed Online Traditional Bingo (OTB) services, has partnered with the PBA for all the three conferences of its 47th season. The gaming company will have branded segments and content in the PBA coverage and

will enable fans to participate in traditional bingo games played on their gadgets and cellphones. “BingoPlus and the PBA share the same passion in bringing entertainment that adds value to their audience. This is why we see this as an ideal partnership. It’s long been in the works, and now that it is a reality, our common goal is to provide high-value entertainment and leisure opportunities for our combined target markets,” said Andy Tsui, Leisure and Resorts World Corporation president, the holding company that manages and operates amusement and recreation enterprises. “This basketball loving country

is always looking for what is new and exciting. Nowadays playing games online gives a new kind of thrill. Online Traditional Bingo, like basketball, requires focus, strategy and sportsmanlike conduct for one to stay the course. We want to teach these values to our audience too. We take pride in this partnership with the second oldest professional basketball league in the world because like them, we want to be recognized as the most reputable brand in our field, which is the gaming sector,” said Jasper Vicencio, AB Leisure Exponent, Inc. (ABLE), president. BingoPlus is ABLE’s newest gaming brand under the LRWC umbrella.

Filipinas hope to shake off rust THERE’S a bit of rust, but the Philippine national women’s football team is working to get it out of their system. Filipinas’ coach Allen Stajcic said this as the team continued to prepare for the 2022 Southeast Asian Games in Sydney Australia. The Philippines prevailed over Fiji, 7-2, in a friendly last Thursday in wet conditions at the Western Sydney Wanderers field in Sydney, Australia. “There were some good patches, some good moments, but we were a bit rusty in some parts just because players were out for two months, not training in a team environment. Overall, it’s a good starting point for us,” said Stajcic. In that game, skipper Tahnai Annis scored a brace (two goals), with Quinley Quezada and Anicka Castañeda. “We were a bit rusty on the ball as the match wore on. That’s just a result of a couple of months out and just four to five days of training,” added Stajcic. “It was a tough match in tough conditions. I’m happy for the team for the good result. We’ll keep working hard,” said team manager Jefferson Cheng. Peter Atencio

Tolentino sees ‘fighting team’ in Vietnam SEA Games VIETNAM is putting up a hard-to-beat stance a month before it opens the 31st Southeast Asian Games in Hanoi, but Philippine Olympic Committee president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino is unfazed saying Filipino athletes will be a “fighting team” in the May 12 to 23 games. “Our athletes will fight and will do their best to bring the overall championship back to the country,” said Tolentino from Cambodia where the SEA Games Council met face-to-face for the second time this year to discuss both the Vietnam and 2023 Cambodia SEA Games. As host, Vietnam will be fielding the biggest number of athletes at 965—534 men and 431 women—with a bold prediction of winning 140 gold, 77 silver and 71 bronze medals, according to reports by Hanoi media. Vietnam programmed 40 sports with 526 events—only five less than those in the 2019 Games with the Philippines as host. Tolentino said he is confident that Filipino athletes will deliver because majority of the 656-strong Team Philippines clinched medals in 2019 when the country dominated with a 149-117-121 gold-silverbronze haul. Vietnam sent a strong message with its second-ranked overall 98-85-105 tally in 2019 that it intends to also dominate the Games it is hosting only for the second time since 2003.

Sports

MONDAY, APRIL 11, 2022

Scheffler in control; Tiger fades

UGUSTA—Tiger Woods’s hopes of a victorious return from career-threatening injuries evaporated on Augusta National’s greens on Saturday while Scottie Scheffler seized a three-stroke Masters lead.

Woods, 14 months removed from a car crash that left him with injuries so severe he feared he might lose his right leg, saw his hopes of a stunning comeback for a sixth green jacket come undone with his worst-ever Masters round, a six-over par 78. The fact that the 46-year-old was even able to tee it up — and make a 22nd consecutive Masters cut — was astonishing. But at nine off Scheffler’s lead to start the day, Woods knew he needed something sensational to give himself a chance come Sunday, and instead he posted a round worse than the thirdround 77 he shot in his 1996 debut as an amateur. “It’s just like I hit a thousand putts out there on the greens today,” said Woods,

whose prior mastery of the unforgiving, undulating greens of Augusta helped him to five Masters titles. “I felt like I didn’t really hit it that bad, but I had four three-putts and a fourputt,” Woods said. “I just could not get a feel.” Woods’s seven-over par total of 223 put him 16 strokes behind Scheffler, who survived drama at the 18th to card a one-under par 71 for a nine-under total of 207. The 25-year-old Texan takes a threeshot lead over Australian Cameron Smith into the final round. On a cold, windy day where scores soared, Smith carded the only round in the 60s with a four-under par 68 for 210. Smith was two strokes in front of

third-place South Korean Im Sung-jae, who shot a one-under 71. But, once again, it was Woods who drew the spotlight. A three-putt at the opening hole proved a harbinger, a birdie at the second — where his shot out of a greenside bunker barely missed finding the cup for eagle — proving only a short respite. From the fairway at the fifth, Woods left himself 65 feet, and he could only watch in disbelief as his three-foot bogey effort circled the cup and stayed up. Bogeys at the ninth and 11th followed before he drained a 14-foot birdie at the 12th and two-putted from 27 feet for birdie at the par-five 13th. The thousands following Woods’s every move tried to will him on, cheering and shouting encouragement at every hole, but he closed his round with bogeys at 16 and 17 and another doublebogey at the last. While Woods acknowledged on Thursday that just making through his first competitive round in 17 months

Milliam, 3 other netters repeat as PPS champs ALEXA Milliam pounded out a 4-2, 5-4(4) reversal over second seed JufeAnn Cocoy while Therese Gauran, Louraine Jallorina and Renante Bravo also came away with straight-set victories to sustain their title run in the PPS-PEPP national age group tennis tournament in Bacolod City last Friday. Milliam re-displayed the form that netted her the 18-and-under crown in last week’s PPS-PEPP Iloilo leg, overpowering three rivals before the unranked local bet subdued Cocoy in the finals of the premier age category at the Negros Occidental Tennis Association courts. Gauran, from Tayasan, Negros, lived up to her top billing, dropping just two games in four matches to rule the girls’ 16-and-U play for the second straight week. She trounced No. 2 Louchelaj Estember, 4-0, 4-2, in the finals of the Group 1 tournament which drew players from Aklan, Roxas, Iloilo, Tayasan, Dumaguete, Valencia, San Carlos, La Carlota, Cadiz, Sagay and Bacolod. The unseeded Jallorina also bucked the odds, upending third seed Zeannie Brigoli, 4-0, 4-0; Fiel Caroliean, 4-1, 4-0; and Bea Celeste, 4-1, 4-1; before overpowering Raine Villame, 4-1, 4-0, to claim the 12-and-U crown. Hannah Divinagracia joined the romp of the lesser lights, thumping three rivals before foiling Jasmine Jaran, 4-2, 4-1, to pocket the 16-and-U plum in the event put up by Palawan Pawnshop-Palawan Express Pera Padala president and CEO Bobby Castro and sponsored by Fernando Arguelles III. Meanwhile, the PPS-PEPP La Carlota leg scheduled this week has been moved to May 11 to 15 due to adverse weather conditions. For details, contact event organizer Bobby Mangunay at 0915-4046464. In boys’ play, local siblings Andre Rodriguez and Adrian Rodriguez beat Herman Illusurio, 1-4, 5-4(2), 10-0, and Kurt Montenegro, 4-0, 4-1, to pocket the 18and 12-and-U titles, respectively, while San Carlos’ Kirby Ramacho rapped Illusorio, 5-3, 5-3, in the 16-and-U finals; and Ormoc’s Renante Bravo claimed the 14-and-U title for the second straight week, foiling Adrian Rodriguez’s twotitle bid, 4-1, 4-0, in the event held under the auspices of the Unified Tennis Philippines and the Universal Tennis Rating.

was a victory of sorts, he made it clear he would be looking for better things on Sunday, like getting himself back to even par. Woods was hardly the only one struggling in the cold, blustery conditions, where the scoring average was 74.5 shots and only seven players were under par for the tournament after 54 holes. Ireland’s 2019 British Open champion Shane Lowry and 2011 Masters winner Charl Schwartzel both carded one-over par 73s to share fourth place on two-under 214. Scheffler shrub drama Scheffler was 10-under through 17 holes when his tee shot at 18 clipped a tree branch and ended up in dense undergrowth left of the fairway. It took a concerted search to find his ball and after wading into the bushes to see the situation he took and unplayable lie, belted a shot up to the green and limited the damage to a bogey. “We saw the guy who always finds the balls kind of panicking. I thought, ‘Oh crap,’” Scheffler said.

Scottie Scheffler lines up a putt on the 18th green during the third round of the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. AFP

Malixi pulls within 1 after 68 as Oh wavers

Rianne Malixi

RIANNE Malixi pounced on a huge four-shot swing on No. 1 and threatened within one stroke off Nikki Oh after a 68 in the AJGA Thunderbird Junior All-Star heading to a wild finish at the Papago Golf Course in Phoenix, Arizona. Malixi, who started the round four strokes off the American with a 69, fell a shot farther back in a separate flight despite a solid backside 34 then birdied the par-5 No. 1 which she eagled in the first round. In a bizarre twist, Oh, who birdied three of the last five holes at the back to extend her lead, hit a couple of errant shots on the 427-yard opening hole where she holed out in two for a rare double-eagle feat and a 65 Friday. This time, she ended up with an 8, enabling the ICTSI-backed Malixi to pull within one with one round left in the 54-hole tournament that drew 15 champions of the American Junior Golf Association, including four in the Top 150 of the Rolex AjGA Rankings. The duo matched two birdies against a bogey in the last eight holes with Oh finishing with a 71 for a 136 and Malixi churning out a pair of 34s for a 137. But Alabama’s Scarlett Schremmer and Bridget Chantharath of California pooled identical 138s after a 66 and 67, respectively, and Nevada’s Brynn Kort fired a 69 to assemble a 139, setting the stage for a final round shootout among five contenders.

Decker named coach of PH women’s softball team

THE Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines recently appointed Hailey Decker as the new Head Coach of the Philippine Blu Girls, the country’s national softball team. Decker is no stranger to the RP Blu Girls. She previously played first and third base during her ASAPHIL career from 2017-2019, and she had helped the team bag a historic silver award in the 2017 Asian Championships — a top-level international sports competition of Asian athletes and sports teams. “Decker has been with us for a while. She is fully committed and truly immerses herself in the culture, making sure she maintains a strong connection with all the players. She is also very generous in sharing her knowledge and skills which is a trait that is well appreciated by the team and her peers,” said Cheska Almonte, ASAPHIL Secretary General. President of ASAPHIL, Jean Henri Lhuillier, also shared his warm reception of Decker as the new head coach. “Hailey in 2017 was a great addition to the team as a player, so I know that as she steps on the role of being the head coach, she will help the team achieve far greater things. The Blu Girls are also excited to

have her on board as one of their mentors. With the wealth of experience Decker brings, our national team will surely have a great deal of advantage in the sport,” ASAPHIL President Jean Henri Lhuillier said. While Coach Decker is now head coach of the Blu Girls team, she is also an assistant coach for the University of the Pacific. During her collegiate years at the University of Nebraska, she helped the Huskers achieve a stellar 45-16 record that led to the team playing at the Women’s College World Series. In her final season, she set the Huskers’ single-season record for doubles and was named First Team All-Big 10 and First Team All-Midwest Region. She then transferred to the University of Oregon as a junior and was a starter for the Ducks in the 2015 Women’s College World Series (WCWS). Earning All-Pac12 Honorable Mention and First Team All-Pacific Region, Decker helped Oregon to back-to-back Pac-12 titles in 2015 and 2016. Decker Coach Hailey Decker during one of her RP Blu Girls’ stints also became a member of the Philippines National Team in 2017, where she went Asian Championships, Asia Cup, and the hone the knowledge, skills, and instincts of the Philippine national softball team on to start for the national squad in the World Softball Championships. With her exposure and experience in and contribute more to the sport in the World Cup of Softball, Canada Cup, USA Softball International Cup, Asian Games, softball internationally, Decker seeks to country.

Mobile Legends: Bang Bang offers new character skins, special prizes

MLBB players can win special in-game MLBB prizes—including a 515 Wanwan Skin

MOBILE Legends: Bang Bang is gearing up for its biggest 515 celebration in the Philippines yet—with bigger in-games, exciting new skins for fan-favorite characters, and even an activity that will bring the much-awaited event closer to Filipinos this year. With the theme “We Better Than Me,” this year’s 515 M-World is a continuation of the annual 515 events the game has been holding every May 15 for the past three years. The MLBB 515 M-World events will kick off on April 12 with the 515 Carnival Party, a popularity contest where players can win promo diamonds by selecting a 515 skin as their image, completing event tasks, and requesting help from their friends, squad, and group. The 515 Carnival Party will run in-game until May 3. From April 30 to May 23, players can participate in the 515 Trophy Battle. In this special 515 event, players can receive special re-

wards by joining heroes in the titular M-World to complete event tasks and achieve the stage objectives to reach and get the chance to defeat the Trophy Guardian. Special rewards are given to players each time a stage objective is achieved. Players can continue to complete the event tasks after completing the stage objectives for additional bonus rewards. And during the 515 Skins Sale, players can get discounted 515 skins of popular characters Wanwan (April 16 – June 5), Ling (April 23 – June 5), and Yin (April 30 – June 5). To exhibit its commitment to Filipino gamers, MLBB has partnered with Grab to this year’s 515 M-World celebration. It is the first time the top mobile game in the Philippines is collaborating with the leading everyday superapp in Southeast Asia. “We made sure that this year’s MLBB 515 M-World is designed to delight our Filipino players, who have been among the most active

and enthusiastic supporters of the game ever since it came out,” said the MLBB Philippines Team in a statement. “With this goal in mind, Grab is the great partner for this year’s 515 event, underscored by its established credibility and modern capabilities.” The partnership will allow Grab users to experience the 515 M-World event firsthand. It will also give MLBB players more ways to win special 515 in-game items— including the 515 skin of Wanwan, one of the characters highlighted in this year’s celebration. From April 12 to April 18, lucky GrabFood customers in Metro Manila whose orders are delivered by drivers wearing Tang Wanwan Buns will receive an in-game card. The online in-game card contains codes that users can enter in the MLBB game. Players get the chance to win several prizes, including free items, stickers, and the unique Wanwan 515 skin featuring Grab’s iconic brand color.

Entertainment Ben Affleck (left) and Jennifer Lopez Photo from Billboard

Nickie Wang,, Editor Patricia Taculao, Editorial Assistant E-mail: lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com MONDAY, APRIL 11, 2022

Team second chance: JLo, Ben Affleck announce engagement SINGER and actress Jennifer Lopez has announced her engagement to Ben Affleck, 18 years after they ended their relationship for the first time. The 52-year-old posted a video of herself appearing emotional and admiring a green ring in her newsletter, On The JLo. Her representatives then confirmed the engagement announcement to

People magazine. US media reported that the ring was an emerald-cut pale green diamond. “Bennifer” — the couple’s nickname from their first highly publicized relationship — set the internet alight last year when photos of them together again began circulating. The pair first met on the set of

the widely panned movie Gigli in 2002. They postponed their planned 2003 nuptials, then announced their relationship was over in early 2004. It will be the fourth marriage for Lopez and the second for actor and director Affleck, who is 49. Lopez was previously married to actor Ojani Noa, dancer Cris Judd, and singer Marc Anthony,

with whom she shares 14-year-old twins Max and Emme. Affleck was married to actress Jennifer Garner and they are the parents of Violet, 16, Seraphina, 13, and Samuel, 10. Lopez discussed her renewed relationship with Affleck in an interview with People in February. “It’s a beautiful love story that we got a second chance,” she said. AFP

Students learn from ABS-CBN, PACE’s media congress digital caravan

BINI

G22 and VXON

G22, VXON ride the P-Pop wave in exciting fashion

EW fandoms are rising for Cornerstone Entertainment’s P-Pop groups G22 and VXON.

equally captivating singles showing the two sides of the boys’ personalities as a group and as individuals. The name “VXON” refers to how the group, despite their differences in personalities and life In the past few months, experiences, their fanbases have grown is united by exponentially, and it’s one vision: quite understandable to help uplift why patrons of the genre P-Pop and are noticing these groups inspire others. that have been dishing The official out snippets of interesting fandom of music and serving some VXON is (From left) G22 members Bianca, AJ, Alfa, and Jaz great “visuals.” called “Vixies.” “Bagay kayo magTagged as “P-Pop’s Newest a gun cannot work without its bullets. artista. You all look like celebrities,” a Caliber,” G22 has successfully The “G” is open to interpretation but showbiz scribe commented during the grand media launch of the groups held released its explosive femme fatale- the “22” is indicative of the year of their last week at the Grand Ballroom of B esque debut single entitled “Bang” launch. to the delight of fans whose interests Both groups participated and Hotel in Quezon City. “Performing is our passion and we’re were piqued by the launch of VXON performed in the much-awaited P-Pop Convention 2022 held at the New just thankful that we are given this the month prior. The girls will be having a special Frontier Theater and Smart Araneta platform to share this with our audience,” Coliseum over the weekend. They were a member of G22 responded. “We are surprise very soon so fans should joined by other established and up-andopen to any possibilities, but coming P-Pop groups from all across for now, our goal is to make the country. music that our supporters “Being part of the P-Pop Con allows can enjoy.” us to connect with our fans and other The launching of idol groups. We are glad and grateful to Cornerstone Entertainbe surrounded by such amazing talents ment’s official P-Pop and P-Pop idols. As rookies, it’s just so boy group VXON (read surreal,” Jaz, G22’s main vocal told as “vision”) and P-Pop Manila Standard Entertainment. girl group G22 (read “We’ve been dreaming of having a as “G-twenty-two”) P-Pop convention wherein everyone undoubtedly stirred up in the community could come much excitement and together. This event is one for the anticipation from the P-Pop books,” Franz, VXON’s main vocal, community, eager to see the added. P-Pop wave rise higher with Completing VXON’s members are two new exciting groups C13 (leader/main rapper), Patrick adding unique flavors to (main dancer), Sam (lead rapper/ the budding genre full of (From left) VXON members Patrick, C13, Franz, Sam, and Vince lead vocal), and Vince (visual/lead possibilities. vocal). Dubbed “The Monster Rookies of AJ (leader/main rapper), Bianca P.Pop,” VXON has already released definitely stay tuned. The names “G22” two singles, namely “The Beast” and and “Bullets” (the official fandom) (main dancer/sub-rapper), and Alfa “P.S.”, two very different sounding but actually go hand-in-hand as “G22” is (visual/lead vocal), on the other hand, an allusion to a gun (the Glock 22) and complete G22.

MORE than 1,600 students from almost 100 schools all over the Philippines gained inspiration and new knowledge about the media industry during the three legs of Pinoy Media Congress (PMC) Digital Caravan of ABS-CBN and the Philippine Association of Communication Educators (PACE). The first virtual staging of the annual media conference featured speakers like ABS-CBN journalists Jacque Manabat and Raya Capulong, ABS-CBN International Production and Co-Production division supervising producer EJ Mallari, ABS-CBN head of International Sales and Distribution Pia Laurel, and PACE president Mark Lester Chico. Jacque showed the students how she was able to produce reports for TV Patrol and battle fake news using social media platforms such as Facebook and TikTok. “Misinformation is already there. It is like a virus. It spreads fast. What can we do as journalists? We try to debunk, we try to give out information as much as we can. But the important thing is we get the trust of the audience,” Jacque said, as she reminded the students to keep their content simple, be authentic, and be responsible on social media. Pia, meanwhile, revealed how ABS-CBN is able to make shows and films that resonate not only with Filipinos but also with foreign audiences. According to her, they have sold more than 60,000 hours of content in over 50 territories worldwide. “We are slowly being recognized in the global arena as a reliable source of quality content. Yes, each country has a different culture but everyone is looking for the same thing. A strong love story, family and moral values, and an inspirational character who they can look up to,” said Pia. Meanwhile, delegates also got practical tips and inspiration in their pursuit of a career in media and communication from EJ, Raya, and Mark, who were all former student delegates of PMC, which ABS-CBN and PACE started way back in 2005 with the goal of helping prepare the country’s future mass communicators. Prior to the pandemic, over 12,000 students have attended PMC events held in different campuses in Metro Manila, and in Cebu, Baguio, and Cavite for 2019’s PMC Caravan. EJ, who was part of hit shows like

Wildflower and the international series Almost Paradise, reminded the students to be the hero of their story by first being a good follower, then becoming a leader who inspires, adapts, is resilient, and has a purpose. Raya encouraged the delegates to work hard for their dream no matter what the challenges they face, as she recounted her experiences before becoming a part of the ABS-CBN News team and getting her own call sign in TeleRadyo as Radyo Patrol 50. Mark shared with them his journey from being an aspiring actor, writer, and director to now guiding young communicators and advancing and rehumanizing media education as an educator and a leader of a professional organization for teachers. The PMC Digital Caravan, held in cooperation with host schools Biliran Province State University, UP Mindanao, and De La Salle University – Dasmariñas, marks the return of the annual media conference after a two-year hiatus. Attendees of PMC Digital Caravan also enjoyed performances from P-Pop sensations BINI and BGYO, fun games and prizes from ktx.ph, and a preview of ABS-CBN content that are now available on various traditional and new media platforms. ABS-CBN continues to strengthen its digital presence on Facebook and YouTube with over 33 million followers and 38.6 million subscribers, respectively. It also has the most followed page in the Philippines on Facebook (ABS-CBN) and the most subscribed and most viewed YouTube channel in Southeast Asia (ABSCBN Entertainment) as of March 2021, according to global video measurement and analytics platform Tubular Labs.

ABS-CBN supervising producer EJ Mallari

PACE president Mark Lester Chico

Designing for women and more TO CELEBRATE a jade anniversary in the Philippine fashion industry is no small feat. That is why Albert Figueras beams with pride and is truly modest about this career milestone. Many describe the fashion creations of Figueras as timeless, sophisticated, and simply elegant. It is a no brainer then that the cosmopolitan set of women with distinction, fame, and power, do not mind trooping to his atelier (located at 1129 Antipolo St. Barangay Valenzuela, Makati City) to have their fill of his dresses and gowns they wear in all happenings and

occasions that allow them to stand out amongst the many because of the fact that Figueras is what they have on. Some of Figueras’s stand-out creations are Karylle Tatlonghari’s wine redhued modern re-interpretation of the terno, with indigenous embellishments from Mindanao, which the now Mrs. Yael Yuzon wore in the Manny Pacquiao and Oscar dela Hoya bout, with the songstress assigned to do the “Lupang Hinirang.” In the field of theater, Figuerass’ costume designs added dazzle and sparkle to Noli Me Tangere, The Opera, the Ateneo versus La Salle Musical, Rivalry, Gantimpala Theater’s National Artists Production Series, May Day Eve by Nick Joaquin, Forever and Call Me Flory, by Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero, the Australian production of the Noli (he was the lone Filipino in the artistic and creative pool), and Huling Pahina, to

mention a few. Two years ago, the parade of nation’s costumes he created for Ms. Kenya Suzy Kirui, was awarded best in national costume in the Miss Earth pageant. Figueras gives first and foremost credit to his mommy Maxima for his design aesthetics: “Growing up nakikita ko ang Mommy Max ko, mahilig mamostura,” shares the fashion designer. “She has her own modista. She loved to attend parties during those days. And because she was beautiful, what she wears, always landed on society pages.” “The image of my late mother, in all those elegant dresses, that were always appropriate and stood out on the occasions she attended, left a huge imprint on me. Fashion is what a woman wears and that is so because, she feels comfortable, free, and confident with what she wears,” shares Figueras, who listed the neverout-of-style looks made legendary by

Chanel, Balenciaga, Valentino, and the other designers who were responsible for the outfits and total look of say, Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelley, as his inspirations. For Figueras, a fashionable woman is someone who exudes great confidence, someone who carries herself with a regal gait. No wonder, some of his most loved muses are Celeste Legaspi, Pilita Corrales, and Carmen Patena, Pilar Pilapil, Eugene Domingo, and Rita Daniela. “It is a milestone year,” says the designer about his jade anniversary. “A gala is being planned, hopefully with favorite muses walking on the catwalk.”

BGYO

Albert Figueras (left) with Karylle Tatlonghari

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

MONDAY, APRIL 11, 2022

Life

Arvin Siena of PLDT and Smart Communications win the Special Award of Closest to the Pin

CaSoBe, Millennial Resorts host inaugural MVP Landco Golf Cup CASOBE (Calatagan South Beach) and Millennial Resorts recently hosted the inaugural MVP Landco Golf Cup, the intercompany golf tournament that provided an opportunity among select executives of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, various companies under the MVP Group, and corporate partners to team up, meet faceto-face, have fun, and build camaraderie in a friendly golf tournament at the Calatagan Golf Club. It was also the perfect avenue for MVP executives to experience the ultimate in resort living and explore the 15-hectare CaSoBe, one of Landco’s latest leisure tourism estates, and enjoy the facilities of Millennial Resorts on property. MVP executives and their families were billeted at Crusoe Cabins, the first resort in the country that received the prestigious EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater

Efficiencies) certification for its eco-efficient design. After the golf tournament, sunset cocktails and a fellowship night ensued by the white sand beach of CaSoBe. Erickson Manzano, President and CEO at Landco together with Landco officers Patrick Gregorio, Senior Consultant for Hospitality and Tourism, and Vivian Liban, Chief Finance Officer, welcomed the participants and guests and graced the awarding ceremony of the first MVP Landco Golf Cup. Taking home the first place trophy was Dan Niel, Executive Vice President Head – Expanding Market Division Corporation, Global Business Powers (GBP) in the golf tournament that was also participated by some top executives of the MVP group of companies: Augusto Palisoc, Jr., Director for Metro Pacific Investments Corporation and President and Director at Metro Pacific

Hospital Holdings, Inc. and Oslec Lopez, President and CEO, Santos Clinic, Inc.; Ramoncito Fernandez, Director for Metro Pacific Investments Corporation and President and CEO of Maynilad Water Services, Inc.; Christopher Lizo, Chief Financial Officer of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation; Ferdinand Geluz, President of Spectrum and Meralco FVP, CCO; Exequiel Delgado, CEO, Radius Telecoms; Jude Turcuato, First Vice President - Head of Sports, PLDT and Executive Director, MVP Sports Foundation; Arvin Siena, VP and Head of Technology Strategy and Transformation Office, PLDT and Smart

(From left) Ernesto Sta. Maria, Jr., Boy Leonardo, Erwin Pobre, Ramoncito Fernandez, Adrian Borja, Jude Turcuato, Andrei Lizo, Christopher Lizo, and Arvin Siena At the inaugural MVP Landco Golf Cup

Communications, Inc.; Gerard Milan, Vice President and Head of Content Business Development, Smart Communications, Inc. and Ernesto Sta. Maria, Jr., President and CEO, Pilipinas Global Network Limited. VIP guests included: Jonvic Remulla, Governor, Cavite; Oliver Jimeno, President and CEO, CTBC Bank; Bo Perasol, former Head Coach, Ateneo Blue Eagles and UP Fighting Maroons; Ernie Lopez, President

and CEO, Creative Programs, Inc, an ABSCBN subsidiary and Host of G Diaries; and Boy Leonardo, Erwin Pobre, Adrian Borja, and Carmelo Andrei Lizo. The awarding ceremony also recognized the team winners, with Global Business Powers clinching the first MVP Landco Cup. In second and third place were PLDT and Metro Tollways. Siena received a special award of Closest to the Pin.

Festive Easter at City of Dreams Manila

PATA members and officers who joined the Business Assembly in person pose with the invited speakers

What lies ahead for the tourism industry?

T’S been two years since we, at the Pacific Asia Travel Association, conducted our Business Assemblies face-to-face. So, now that the Pandemic Alert Level has been reduced to the barest minimum, we decided that it was time to do our event in-person, bring life back to it, and pose the all-important question that all of us in the travel industry have in our minds.

with one stone if we push for domestic tourism—it would re-introduce our beautiful natural attractions to our citizenry and re-ignite the economy of our local communities. Our guest speaker, Samuel David, International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Country Manager for the Philippines, shared with us some interesting facts gathered from his perch. IATA is the trade association representing 290 of the world’s airlines, responsible for 82 percent of global We made our meeting hybrid because air traffic. Pre-pandemic, the airlines ferried some of our members are still being very a total of 12.4 million passengers. By the end careful about getting exposed to crowds and of this year, we would already be on the way busy places. So, the spacious Ballroom of to recovery by carrying a total of 9.4 million Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA looked global travelers. like a photographer’s studio, with all the Among the landmark developments that accouterments needed in transmitting the will be responsible for our industry’s recovery event live to those who preferred to watch it are the lifting of quarantine protocols, the from their homes. This was made possible reopening of our borders to foreign visitors, with the help of the hotel’s Director of Sales mutual recognition of vaccine certificates, and Marketing, Meegee Yap. the increase in arrival quotas, and the preStarting our event with his inspirational departure testing (through PCR or Antigen). message, we invited Tourism Undersecretary Although not all markets or market sectors Woodrow Maquiling, Jr., who is the most will recover at the same pace, the upward visible Tourism trend of tourist officer these days. numbers gives YOUR MONDAY CHUCKLE Not only does he the Industry crisscross Metro WHAT DO YOU CALL A PARADE OF RABBITS good reason to Manila on any HOPPING BACKWARDS? A receding hare- be optimistic. given day, you line. But there also see him in is one very various parts important matter of the archipelago within a span of 24 hours. that IATA will do its best to achieve – net What energy! But, he really is enthused about zero carbon emissions by 2050, to be in getting everybody revved up for the much- line with the Paris Agreement’s goal to awaited re-start of our industry. keep global warming under 1.5 degrees At our assembly, he urged all of us, Centigrade. Such endeavor is aimed at stakeholders in the industry, to do what we keeping the benefit of global connectivity for can to “keep traveling alive” as the Tourism future generations. This is something that Department will do what it can to keep has a lasting global impact on all countries our country a safe, fun, and competitive because global warming, if not checked, destination. He suggested that we extend this will certainly push our planet to the brink of “catchy” invitation to our friends abroad and disaster. potential customers from other countries— Dina May Flores, Vice-President for “It’s more fun with YOU in the Philippines.” Sales and Marketing at Philippine Airlines, He also shared with us World Tourism was very excited to share with us the latest Organization’s estimate that the pre- developments in our national carrier, which pandemic volume of tourists would probably just celebrated its 81st year in service. be experienced in 2024 so, meantime, we Having survived its recent financial debacle, have to find other ways to earn our keep. the renewed airline is now brimming with I would think that we would hit two birds new and exciting offerings for the traveling

Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA Director of Sales and Marketing Meegee Yap sharing with the attendees the other functional features of the hotel

Philippine Airlines’ VicePresident for Sales and Marketing Dina May Flores

Tourism Asec. Verna Buensuceso formally accepting her additional role as Vice-Chairman of PATA Philippines Chapter

public, making it much stronger than ever, and well-positioned for the future. Its new strategy is having hybrid flights, meaning, there’s now a bigger emphasis on cargo which, as we have seen, was never affected by the pandemic. In fact, its revenues registered a continuous increase. The airline is now developing new all-cargo markets. Added to this is the excitement of reopening their international destinations: non-stop flights to Sydney, direct flights to New York, nonstop flights to Dubai, quarantine-free travel to Singapore, non-stop flights to Vietnam, direct flights to Vancouver, non-stop flights to Riyadh and Dammam, non-stop flights to Doha and non-stop flights to Bangkok. Adding to the significance of this business assembly was the opportunity to introduce to our members our new Vice-Chairman, Tourism Assistant Secretary Verna Buensuceso. PATA Philippines Chapter is unique because our Constitution and ByLaws dictate that our Vice-Chairman and Secretary General should be high-ranking officers of our Department of Tourism (DOT). To replace former Tourism Usec. Bong Bengzon who recently retired from DOT, Sec. Berna Romulo-Puyat designated Asec. Buensuceso as our new Vice-Chairman. Our Secretary General is still Daks Gonzales, Head, Office of Product and Market Development. It was a very encouraging and inspiring session we had with these travel industry leaders. The predominant remark we received from our members who joined in was their feeling of enthusiasm over the rekindled energy shown by all sectors of the Industry in bringing back tourism to its “old glory.” Indeed, the tourism industry’s road to recovery will certainly be an adventure, dotted with scary occasions every now and then but, as long as all of us stakeholders join hands towards the right direction, we will be back to where we left off. So, to answer the question in this column’s banner – We’ll be riding high…with flying colors! For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@ gmail.com

Samuel David is the Country Manager-Philippines of the International Air Transport Association

Tourism Undersecretary Woodrow Maquiling, Jr.

DreamPlay welcomes families to a festive Easter celebration with various fun activities

THE spirit of Easter celebration is alive at City of Dreams Manila as it highlights exciting activities at DreamPlay, and an impressive collection of delectable artisanal chocolates and confections designed for this season at Café Society. Bringing the family celebratory mood a notch higher, a feast of specialties popularized by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa beckons at Nobu Manila’s Sunday Brunch. DreamPlay’s ultimate Easter eggstravaganza A one-of-a-kind weekend celebration awaits families as DreamPlay engages them in fun family festivities this year. On Easter Sunday, DreamPlay’s VIP Pass for P2,399 net per person gives pass holders access to a myriad of fun activities the world’s first DreamWorksinspired family entertainment center offers: all-day access to all the play space’s engaging and immersive attractions, along with the perks to enjoy the convenience of express entrance pass and express check-in for all attractions. In addition, VIP Pass ticket holders are entitled to the following freebies: special Easter tote bag, one scoop of bubble gum ice cream at Chez Gingy, and special DreamShop items including a dragon pin and one Astrid bobblehead toy from DreamWorks’ How To Train Your Dragon movie. DreamPlay’s regular tickets with access to all the play space’s attractions are also available on the day at P1,500, while non-participating tickets can be purchased for P250.

Easter treats at Café Society Guests can hop over to Café Society, also located at The Shops at the Boulevard, that’s brimming with various chocolate indulgences until April 17. Guests are further spoilt for choice with Café Society’s other Easter-themed confections and signature pastries including bunny face cookies, egg chocolate sugar cookies, bunny green tea, and white chocolate mousse cake, blueberry coconut purple entremet cake, chocolate egg cheesecake, blueberry cheesecake danish, and raspberry vanilla cream croissant, among others. Sunday Brunch at Nobu Manila For an unforgettable Easter celebration, guests can set out on a Nobu gastronomic experience with Nobu Manila’s well-loved Sunday brunch. The Nobu Sunday Brunch showcases the iconic new-style Japanese cuisine of Chef Nobu Matsuhisa in his restaurants that he co-founded with Hollywood’s Robert de Niro and Meir Teper that are drawing celebrity crowds. The brunch features classic Nobu dishes and freshly prepared custom sushi and sashimi matched with Nobu signature sauces and dressings. It also offers a premium carving of the day; an a la carte selection of all-you-caneat Japanese-Peruvian, and Filipinoinspired hot dishes. The brunch fare is priced at P2,950 net. For inquiries, call 8800-8080 or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila. com or visit www.cityofdreamsmanila. com.

CEB rolls out per piece checked bag options CEBU Pacific announces changes to its checked baggage policy, in line with the airline’s goal to improve its processes for a more efficient and seamless customer experience. The per piece baggage allowance for all new bookings became effective on April 6. When booking flights, passengers have the option to purchase either a 20kg or a 32kg – both equivalent to only one piece of check-in luggage. A maximum of two options can be purchased per traveler, now enabling “everyJuan” to carry up to 64 kg worth of bags from the previous 40 kg limit. Passengers are also encouraged to Passengers can now choose between two purchase their baggage allowance with options equivalent equivalent to only one their tickets during initial booking on piece of check-in luggage the CEB website and mobile app, so you can save up to 64 percent versus paying baggage fees during bag drop at the airport. This new per piece baggage policy applies to all passengers with checked baggage. “We are encouraging our passengers to bring one big bag instead of multiple small bags, so it’ll be easier and faster for them at our bag drop counters,” said Candice Iyog, Vice President for Marketing and Customer Experience at Cebu Pacific. Visit https://bit.ly/CEBPrepaidBag for more information.