Manila Standard - 2022 July 12 - Tuesday

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DSWD TO DROP 1M BENEFICIARIES FROM AYUDA (4Ps) LIST ALMOST a million “undeserving” beneficiaries of the government’s conditional cash transfer program, otherwise known as 4Ps, will be delisted, Social Welfare Secretary Erwin Tulfo said yesterday.

This means about one-fourth of the 4.4 million total beneficiaries will be removed from the DSWD list as it undergoes review.

“So far, we’re doing good. Mga tao namin on the ground are doing that [review] now. I don’t have the exact figure

VOL. XXXVI • NO. 147 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 • TUESDAY, JULY 12, 2022 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

but initially, they told me about 1 million will be removed from our list,” he said in a radio interview.

The vacated slots will be given to new beneficiaries as many applicants are on the waiting list, Tulfo said.

Families who are without eligible household members or who have already met the self-sufficient stage will be delisted.

Tulfo said the review – in compliance of the order of President Ferdinand Next page

Chicken short supply raised

Poultry raisers woe lack of govt support, strict border controls Fuel subsidies, P lower tariffs for bakers pushed

By Othel V. Campos and Macon Ramos-Araneta

OULTRY raisers warned of possible shortage of chicken and chicken products in the next two quarters following a shortfall in production.

“We are in a very challenging situation,” said the president of the United Broilers and Raisers Association (UBRA), Elias Jose Inciong, adding that a shortage would ensue if production problems were not addressed.

A number of restaurants—includ-

ing fast food establishments—have been complaining of a tightness in the supply of dressed chicken for their requirements.

While dressed chicken prices averaged about P130 per kilogram in Luzon, groceries and su-

permarkets sell at an average of P150 to P160 per kilo Choice cut chicken cut-ups sell at an average of P180 a kilo.

The group advised President Marcos, who concurrently heads the Department of Agriculture (DA), to craft a plan to boost yield and optimize border controls to prevent zoonotic diseases from reaching the local poultry population.

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THE Philippine Association of Flour Millers Inc. has appealed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to extend aid and fuel subsidies to bread makers amid rising prices of wheat and other raw materials globally.

“We are asking the government if they could extend fuel subsidies to bread makers, too. They use LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) and the price of LPG now is very high at more than P1,000 per 11-kg. Tank,” said PAFMIL executive director Ric Pinca.

He said the government should also

Meralco cuts July rates by P0.71/kWh

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By Alena Mae S. Flores CONSUMERS of the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) will experience lower rates for July as the average household’s overall rate went down by P0.7067 per kWh following the refund ordered by the Energy Regulatory Commission.

The July rate reduction effectively reversed all increases in the overall power rates since the start of the year.

Meralco spokesperson Joe Zaldarriaga said this is equivalent to a decrease of around P141 in the total bill of a residential customer consuming 200 kWh. “Good news to our customers. We are announcing a P0.71 per kWh, rounded off for residential consumers this month of July,” Zaldarriaga said.

ERC earlier directed Meralco to implement an additional Distribution True-Up refund totaling P21.8 billion for 12 months or until the amount is fully refunded.

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SUPPLY DOWN, PRICES UP. An association of chicken raisers have warned of a possible supply shortage until the end of the year amid tight production. Flour prices, on the other

hand, continue to increase, prompting a group of small bakers to see a standardized price of regular pandesal at P4 per piece. Inset photo shows Department of Trade and Industry Consumer Protection Group (DTI-CPG) Undersecretary Ruth Castelo leading the inspection of prices of local products at a supermarket in Manila on July 11, 2022 as rising inflation resulted in a hike in prices of certain basic goods. Norman Cruz

FOR A GOOD FRIEND OF THE COUNTRY.

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte-Carpio signs a condolence book for former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at the official residence of Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuhiko Koshikawa on Monday, July 11, 2022.

Facebook of VP Sara Duterte-Carpio

MORE DURABLE, BUT NO FOLDING.

The new P1,000 banknote specimen released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

Marcos nominates ex-DOE chief under GMA to be his Energy czar

By Vince Lopez, Alena Mae Flores and Maricel Cruz

RAPHAEL LOTILLA

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has nominated Raphael Lotilla to be his Energy secretary, Malacañang said Monday.

“The President has designated a new Energy Secretary, Raphael Perpetuo Lotilla,” Press Secretary Trixie CruzAngeles said in a statement.

Cruz-Angeles, however, said in a subsequent statement that the designation of Lotilla remains a “nomination” pending clarification of his employ- is currently an independent director of ment status.

Aboitiz Power and also of ENEXOR. “Atty Lotilla, President Ferdinand Mar- Sec. 8 of RA 7638 or the Act Creating the cos Jr’s personal choice to head the DOE, Next page

COVID cases still rising, new infections over 10k

By Willie Casas, Vince Lopez and Rey E. Requejo

THE country logged 10,271 new COVID-19 cases from July 4 to July 10, about 39 percent higher than the cases reported the previous week, the Department of Health (DOH) said Monday.

Based on the DOH’s weekly case bulletin, the daily case average for the week was 1,467. This was higher than the 1,057 case average from June 27 to July 10, with 7,398 new COVID-19 infections.

There were also 50 more verified deaths last week, but none of them occurred from June 27 to July 10.

Data also showed that 555 severe and critical cases are currently admitted in hospitals due to COVID-19 as of July 10.

Of the 2,414 intensive care unit (ICU) beds, 411 or 17 percent were occupied. Meanwhile, 4,863 or 22.7 percent of the 21,424 non-ICU COVID-19

(DBM) to finance the free bus rides for commuters until the end of the year.

“If we will continue the free bus rides on the EDSA Carousel until December, we will need an additional budget of about P1.4 billion, which is not avail-

able in our existing budget,” Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista said Monday.

The previous administration earlier allotted P7 billion for the Libreng Sakay program from the national budget,

Does P1k polymer bill lose value when folded? BSP told to clarify DoTr eyes P1.4b more to keep free bus rides going

By Maricel V. Cruz

la to clarify the acceptance of damaged, folded, or otherwise altered P1,000 polyTHE chairman of the House of Rep- mer bills by business establishments, resentatives Committee on Ways and in response to concerns raised by both Means on Monday asked Bangko Sen- businesses and consumers. tral ng Pilipinas Governor Felipe MedalNext page

By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Monday said it will ask for an additional budget of P1.4 billion from the Department of Budget and Management

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News

TUESDAY, JULY 12, 2022

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Marcos to cleanse the list – will take about a month to finish.

Earlier, Tulfo said he would tap informers to identify persons who should be delisted from the 4Ps list.

He said he is also eyeing an amnesty system to allow unqualified 4Ps benefi-

ciaries to surrender their accounts to the DSWD to avoid facing charges.

“Those who are not deserving, we will remove them. There’s a lot. We are also digitizing our database,” Tulfo added.

Earlier, Marcos also underscored the need to hasten the release of the national IDs as these will facilitate the efficient distribution of ayuda.

“Things like the giving of the ayuda,

all of these things that we are trying for, going to digitize the bureaucracy…Having their national ID [ensures] a good database for the government,” the President said.

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the IDs, either in physical form or in electronic form, will be available “before the end of the year.”

Balisacan said 92 million Filipinos are eligible to receive the national IDs

but only over 10 million cards have been delivered nationwide as of April 30, 2022.

“We are ramping up the implementation of our National ID system and also the digitalization in the government and with respect to the ID system, we believe that we can substantially reduce the leakage so that we can reach more people, more deserving people from the limited resources,” Balisacan said.

Meralco...

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ERC recalculated the difference between the Actual Weighted Average Tariff (AWAT) and the final Interim Average Rate (IAR) of P1.3522 per kWh from July 2015 to June 2022, following a downward adjustment in Meralco’s Regulatory Asset Base for the 3rd Regulatory Period.

The refund is equivalent to P0.8656 per kWh for residential customers and will appear as a separate line item called “Dist True-up 4” in the power bills starting this month.

“As a highly regulated entity, Meralco’s rates undergo a review and confirmation process to make sure they are fair and reasonable. The immediate implementation of the ERC Decision was able to more than offset the impact of higher generation charge this month to the benefit of our customers,” said Jose Ronald Valles, Meralco Head of Regulatory Management.

Meralco’s generation charge for July went up by P0.2166 to P6.7756 from the P6.5590 per kWh registered the previous month, driven by higher spot market rates and an increase in power supply agreements (PSAs) charges.

Charges from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) increased by P3.9649 per kWh amid tight supply conditions in Luzon.

Meralco sourced about seven percent of its supply requirements from the WESM, the trading floor of electricity, during the June supply month.

Meanwhile, charges from Meralco’s PSAs also increased by P0.3186 per kWh due to the peso depreciation and higher coal prices.

The peso depreciated by about five percent, the steepest decline in the peso’s value since June 2003, affecting around 32 percent of PSA costs that are dollar-denominated.

Inciong added that the President should not listen to “false narratives.”

He added that the poultry sub-sector is not protected from surges in imports, as some DA officials claim. Neither has it benefited from government support, he said.

“There is no support. There is no plan. We never received the kind of support other countries are giving to their agriculture sector. Those who are still in the sector are surviving on their own, not because of the government,” Inciong said.

Despite an expansion in production by 12.3 percent in the first quarter of 2022, supply is not enough to keep up with the growing demand.

On Monday, the DA’s Bantay Presyo (Price Watch) showed that the prevailing market price for whole chicken in Metro Manila now ranges from P190 to P220 per kilogram, higher than the price range last June 30, except for Malabon and Commonwealth Market, which maintained their lower prices.

As of end-June, the price of a whole chicken only ranged from P181 per kilo to P205 per kilo.

The DA’s Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) said the low supply of chicken was due to the bird flu threat, which earlier caused them to impose stricter interzonal transport of poultry products.

The BAI said it has eased some of those measures to ensure that supply and prices remain stable.

“Among the measures being undertaken is allowing inter-island movement from mainland Luzon of day-old chicks, hatching eggs and ready to lay pullets,” BAI officer-in-charge (OIC) Reildrin Morales said in a statement Monday.

However, only avian influenza (AI)-

free day-old chicks and hatching eggs will be allowed for inter-island movement.

“Movement is allowed provided they tested negative for AI 28 days from the date of sample collection. For readyto-lay pullets, movement is allowed provided they tested negative for AI 14 days from the date of sample collection,” the BAI said.

Morales vowed to closely coordinate with the private sector to monitor supply and ensure the stable price of chicken and eggs.

Last week, Jollibee and McDonald’s Philippines confirmed that some of their stores have temporarily stopped offering certain chicken products due to “unavailability of chicken supply that meet their standards and specifications.”

In separate statements, the food giants said the chickens were just too small or too light for their requirements.

The rising cost of poultry feeds has made it hard for local farmers to find quality chicken for their broilers.

Imported chicken is also not an option, as dwindling stocks are exacerbated by runaway fuel prices and the disruptions in the global supply chain triggered by the Russia-Ukraine war.

“We continue to serve chicken products in our stores. There are only a number of stores that temporarily don’t offer certain chicken products due to an increase in demand and unavailability of chicken supply that meet our standards and specifications, serving only our best to customers,” said Adi TimbolHernandez, corporate relations director of McDonalds’ Philippines.

Also on Monday, Senator Joel Villanueva said they are ready to coordinate with the Executive department in declaring a state of emergency in the agriculture sector to prevent a food crisis and achieve sufficiency.

The Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food Inc. said a state of emer-

gency or calamity will encourage local governments to direct some funds to the agricultural sector.

Senator Grace Poe, meanwhile, said the crisis on food security did not happen overnight, but it was brought about by those pushing for wider importation that disadvantaged local farmers.

She also said it is a culmination of the worsening problems faced by the agricultural sector.

In fact, during the 18th Congress, she said the Senate committee of the whole already tackled the issue on agricultural smuggling, which brought into light just how pervasive and deeply rooted the problems are in this sector. She said farm produce continues to be imported without sanitary phytosanitary safeguards, and full digitalization of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) system remains “a far-away dream.”

“The call to declare a state of emergency on the current food crisis is only viable if it comes with absolute transparency on the steps to be taken, as well as a much-needed overhaul on and the full digitalization of BOC system and processes — measures which are long overdue,” Poe said.

She said agriculture requires careful planning and long-term commitment.

The senator cited a more permanent approach in the framework of the Right to Adequate Food — a bill which she had filed over and over again including in this Congress.

This proposed measure, she said, seeks to establish a legal framework for the recognition and protection of the right to adequate food.

“We’re open to discussing possible solutions to this crisis with the new administration and I believe that the President personally taking the helm of the Department of Agriculture signifies just how important this crisis is,” she said. “We must move quickly.”

Secretary Lotilla as we have done in the past. We hope to contribute positively to many of the issues in the power industry. We are very optimistic that with him at the helm, we will be able to address many of these concerns to the benefit of the consuming public,” Meralco spokesperson Joe Zaldarriaga said.

Terry L. Ridon, convenor of Infrawatch PH, said Lotilla has had a long experience serving at the highest levels of government, with a track record of competence and integrity in public service.

“We intend to work with him to reduce the costs of electricity through reducing taxes in the energy sector, removing unnecessary charges and renegotiating power supply deals with power generators,” Ridon said.

Consumer group Laban Konsyumer Inc. president Victorio Mario Dimagiba said Lotilla is honest and transparent and promotes participatory management.

Lotilla began his career in the academe as an Assistant Professor of Law in 1985 at the University of the Philippines upon his admission to the Bar. Before joining the government, Lotilla served as a legal consultant to the Senate and the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.

Lotilla holds undergraduate degrees in Psychology and History, a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of the Philippines, and a Master of Laws degree from the University of Michigan Law School.

Meanwhile, the country’s oil firms implemented a big-time rollback in pump prices of as much as P6.10 per liter effective 6 a.m. today (Tuesday) to reflect the movement of prices in the

world oil market.

Oil firms cut diesel prices by P6.10 per liter, kerosene by P6.10 per liter, and gasoline by P5.70 per liter.

This is the second consecutive week that the oil firms cut the price of diesel and kerosene.

On July 5, the oil companies implemented a price cut for diesel by P3 per liter and kerosene by P3.40 per liter. Gasoline prices did not move. These resulted in the year-to-date adjustments to stand at a net increase of P42.90 per liter for diesel and P36.35 per liter for kerosene, while gasoline remained at P30 per liter.

At the House of Representatives, a party-list lawmaker on Monday proposed the revival of the old Oil Price Stabilization Fund (OPSF) created by the first Marcos administration in 1984.

“We should revive the OPSF or establish a similar buffer fund, which the government could use to avoid frequent adjustments in the pump prices of oil products due to fluctuations in the cost of crude oil in the world market and in the peso-dollar exchange rate,” 1-Pacman Rep. Mikee Romero said.

Romero proposed that the fund be sourced from higher excise taxes imposed on diesel, gasoline, cooking gas, and other oil products under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law. “Since the government is not agreeable to the suggested suspension of excise taxes while the cost of crude is above $80 per barrel, we could use part of these impositions as a price stabilization fund to provide relief to the public from increased fuel and consumer prices,” he said.

hours, and availability of equity subsidy as down payment for the acquisition of modern public utility vehicles (PUVs) under the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).

Bautista is scheduling a meeting with the bus consortium operating the EDSA Carousel route and other concerned government agencies to ensure sufficient deployment of buses to accommodate increased passenger demand due to the coming face-to-face classes.

Bautista also said the government is studying additional routes in preparation for the full resumption of face-toface classes by September.

“We are also looking at accelerating the grant of franchise instead of just permits for buses on critical routes used by students such as Katipunan, Commonwealth, Recto Avenue,” Bautista said.

The Department of Education (DepEd) estimates that more than 38,000 schools in the country are already set for the resumption of face-to-face classes for the school year 2022-2023.

Bautista said his department is working on pushing fleet rationalization in preparation for the full resumption of face-to-face classes/ Bautista said a team is working on the fleet rationalization study to find out the availability of public utility vehicles (PUV) on certain routes and how to address problems that may pop up.

“The full study on fleet rationalization is not yet complete and we will work closely with them before the start of face-to-face classes. We have to coordinate with a lot of government agencies,” Bautista said.

Earlier, transport advocacy network

DSWD...

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COVID...

From A1 beds were in use.

Of the new cases recorded in the covered period, 27 were tagged as new severe or critical cases. This was 0.27 percent of the new cases reported for the week.

A total of 71,055,752 people or 78.95 percent of the government’s target population are now fully vaccinated against COVID-19, according to DOH. Of this number, 697,115 were vaccinated from July 4 to July 10.

At least 6.7 million senior citizens or 77.72 percent of the target A2 population have also received their primary vaccine series.

The DOH also noted that 15,342,652 people have received their booster shots.

Infectious disease expert Dr. Rontgene Solante on Monday said it is high time for the government to mandate the administration of booster shots to the general population as the COVID-19 infections in the country continue to increase.

The DOH, however, clarified the administration of booster shots and the primary vaccine series is still not mandatory, although the President agreed with the agency’s proposal to include the first booster as a requirement for a person to be considered fully vaccinated.

Meanwhile, Dr. Maricar Limpin of the Philippine College of Physicians said even if the government scraps COVID-19 restrictions, mandatory face mask rules should be the last to go.

“We together with our colleagues in the medical profession ... we believe that the face mask will be the last thing we will remove if ever we have to relax the requirements,” she said in Filipino in an interview over ABSCBN’s TeleRadyo.

Limpin was reacting to the statement of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. that the government may consider wearing face masks optional if it’s clearly safe.

The Palace said the President would preside over today’s Cabinet meeting through a video conference.

Marcos is still in isolation after testing positive for COVID-19 last week.

He has been advised to go on isolation for seven days.

A medical bulletin said he had no fever or body malaise. His cough disappeared but the President still experiences very mild nasal stuffiness and nasal itchiness, the bulletin added.

Marcos...

From A1 Department of Energy states that ‘No officer, external auditor, accountant, or legal counsel of any private company or enterprise primarily engaged in the energy industry shall be eligible for appointment as Secretary within two (2) years from his retirement, resignation, or separation therefrom,’” she said.

“Thus while the matter is reviewed to determine whether an independent director is considered an officer of the company, Lotilla is considered a nominee,” she added.

Lotilla previously served as Energy Secretary from 2005 to 2007 during the administration of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

Prior to that position, he was the President of the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation and the Deputy Director General of the National Economic Development Authority.

After the Palace announcement, industry players expressed strong support for Lotilla’s nomination.

“Popo Lotilla is intelligent, very competent, and a good leader. He can lead DOE to greater heights. We will give him all the support to ensure that the energy industry will thrive well, especially under current conditions of high prices,” said Jay Layug, president of the Developers of Renewable Energy for AdvanceMent, Inc. (DREAM).

Manila Electric Co., the country’s biggest power retailer, also lauded the appointment.

“We look forward to working with

DoTr...

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President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier announced the extension of free rides at the EDSA Bus Carousel until the end of 2022.

The DOTr will also implement the Libreng Sakay for Students Program in MRT-3, LRT-2, and the PNR while recommending halting free rides for all other MRT-3 passengers.

Bautista also directed the immediate release of P1,000 fuel subsidy to the target 617,806 qualified tricycle driver-beneficiaries as listed by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), full deployment of all 550 buses in the EDSA Busway especially during rush

Fuel...

From A1 consider reducing tariffs on other raw materials used for baking.

“That includes tariffs on bakery ingredients such as yeast. We also buy sugar, confectioners sugar, salt and baking powder. These are things that are not produced locally, so even if we lower the tariff for these ingredients, it will not affect the domestic industry,” he added.

On Sunday, community bakers already asked the government to standardize bread prices to P4 per piece for regular pandesal, or about 100 percent of current prices, amid rising inflation.

Small bakeries led by the Asosasyon ng Panaderong Pilipino (APP) said implementing the price hike will avoid cutthroat competition and allow community bakers to co-exist without harming each other’s livelihood.

Pinca said while the country has enough supply of flour, prices are on the rise amid tight supply of wheat due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

“We won’t see a shortage. There’s just a spike in demand for wheat due to the Ukraine-Russia conflict.

What’s happening now is that due to the Ukraine-Russia war, they can’t sell wheat. They hold 30-40 percent of the world’s exportable wheat. Now we can’t access that,” he said.

Last month, local bread makers already warned that prices of budget bread would increase by at least P2 per pack as manufacturers could not keep up with the rising cost of ingredients, especially flour.

The Philippine Baking Industry Group has also asked the Trade and Industry Department if they could raise their prices.

Regular pandesal currently sells at P2 to P2.50 per piece, while jumbo pandesal costs about P5.

APP acting-president Luisito Chavez, however, said that based on real value, the pricing should be P4 per piece for regular pandesal and P8 for jumbo pandesal, all things considered.

Inflation-adjusted, the price should be P5 and P10 each, respectively, he added.

Russia’s invasion of agricultural power Ukraine has severely disrupted the global wheat market, prompting warnings that the conflict could lead to hunger in some countries.

Does P1k...

From A1 Salceda sent his request for clear guidelines in writing Monday.

“I understand that one of the primary motivations for shifting to the polymer-based bill was that it is more durable than the paper bills. However, the lack of guidelines on what constitutes still-valid legal tender and which bills are damaged beyond being acceptable by business establishments has led to confusion in ordinary cash transactions,” Salceda wrote.

“As such, to resolve these concerns, may I request that the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas issue guidelines on accepting polymer P1,000 bills, and what remedial recourses cash-holders can resort to, should their polymer bills no longer be acceptable to establishments. I understand that, with the paper bills at least, damaged bills could still be exchanged with banks and the BSP,” Salceda added in his letter.

In subsequent comments, Salceda said that “in theory and in usual practice, the value of money is not affected by its appearance. What matters is the validity of the promise embedded in the currency.

That should determine the value.”

“Money is fungible, so you should be able to exchange one bill with another and not lose value. One folded bill should be just as good as a bill not folded. If the polymer bills are more sensitive and less flexible than the paper bills, the whole effort sort of defeats its own purpose, which is to make paper bills more durable.”

The Passenger Forum issued a statement saying public transportation in metropolitan areas across the country is not yet prepared for in-person classes, saying the government should first address the infrastructure problems.

Bautista said the agency is coordinating with other government agencies to form an ad hoc committee for the return of students in schools.

“In my visit to the different offices of the DOTr, I told them that they must coordinate not only with people in the same department but also with those in other agencies of the government,” he said.

He said relevant sectoral offices and attached agencies of the DOTr are working on addressing vehicular traffic that may worsen with the return of students to the streets.

News SC: Deadline for 2022 Bar applications reset to Aug.15

By Rey E. Requejo THE Supreme Court has extended the deadline for the submission of applications for the 2022 Bar examinations by one month or until Aug. 15 to give applicants more time to submit their documentary requirements.

In a bulletin, the SC’s Office of the Bar Confidant announced that from the original period of June 13 to July 15, the tribunal extended the deadline for the submission of applications until Aug. 15.

This year’s Bar examinations chair SC Associate Justice Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa said they moved the deadline after they were informed that law schools follow different academic calendars, with some of them closing their academic year later than others, and later than the original application period.

“In order to give all interested law graduates ample time to prepare and submit their documentary requirements, while ensuring that the different offices of the Supreme Court will have enough time to process and verify the adequacy of the application to be received, the application period is hereby extended to Aug. 15. 2022,” Caguioa said.

Caguioa earlier announced that the examinations would take place this November.

“The 2022 Bar examinations will be held in November, barring unforeseen circumstances and contingencies which may necessitate a rescheduling of the same,” he said.

Just like in the 2020/2021 Bar exams, for the 2022 tests the application would still be done through the BAR PLUS platform.

The applicants are required to submit additional documents such as a legible original copy of the applicant’s birth certificate; marriage contract for married female applicants; certificate of completion of all the requirements of the Law degree to be issued by the Law school or university; and Certificate of No Derogatory Record (CNDR) duly signed by the Law dean.

The applicant would also be required to submit an “unretouched” 1 1/2 x 1 1/2 photo with white background, taken not more than six months prior to the submission of the application form, with the handwritten name and signature of the applicant appearing at the bottom of the photo.

Phivolcs says Taal Volcano calming down THE Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Philvolcs) on Monday lowered the Alert Level 1 the security situation in Taal Volcano in Batangas as the volcano showed low levels of activity.

Phivolcs said Taal recorded a decline in daily average of volcanic earthquakes, from seven daily between Jan. 1 and May 31 down to zero since June 13.

There were “stabilizing ground deformation” and decreased volcanic gas emissions, the agency said.

Despite the downgrade, Phivolcs said the unrest has not yet stopped, or that the threat of an eruption has disappeared.

“Should an uptrend or pronounced change in monitored parameters forewarn of renewed unrest, the alert may be raised back to Alert Level 2,” Phivolcs said.

Local government units near the volcano were advised to continuously assess previously evacuated barangays around Taal Lake for damage and road accessibility, and strengthen preparedness in case of renewed unrest. Rio N. Araja

TUESDAY, JULY 12, 2022 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

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Dengue cases up 90% this year—DOH 58 in June.

The DOH noted that there were 21,115 dengue cases recorded from May 29 to June 25, 2022 alone.

Of this number, 18 percent were logged in Central Luzon at 3,902, followed by Central Visayas with 2,316 cases, and the National Capital Region with 1,997 cases.

Cumulatively, most of the dengue incidents took place in Central Luzon with 9,426 cases, followed by Central Visayas with 7,741 and Zamboanga peninsula with 5,684 cases.

By Willie Casas

T

HE Philippines logged 64,797 dengue cases from January 1 to June 25, 2022, indicating a 90-percent increase over the same period last year, the Department of Health (DOH) said Monday.

Based on the DOH’s National Dengue Data for the week, there were only 34,074 cases recorded from January 1 to June 25, 2021.

A total of 274 people have re-

portedly died in the country this year due to dengue, representing a 0.4% fatality rate, broken down as 36 in January, 32 in February, 39 in March, 46 in April, 63 in May, and

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said on Friday that the increase of dengue cases in the country was alarming as some patients were being admitted in hospitals.

The DOH reminded the public to observe protocols the fight dengue such as search and destroy breeding places, practice self-protection; seek early consultation; and support fogging or spraying in hotspot areas, especially during the rainy season.

SSS pays P53b for maternity benefits in 5 yrs

STUDENTS JOIN WEST PHILIPPINE SEA FIASCO. Student leaders join other like-minded sectors that unified under the auspices of the West Philippine Sea Coalition (WPSC) which organized a press briefing at a Quezon City restaurant to help push the country’s sovereign claim over the disputed West Philippine Sea, as upheld by an arbitral ruling in The Hague exactly six years ago. Manny Palmero

NCRPO anti-drug drive shifts to high gear

By Joel E. Zurbano THE National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Monday announced the arrest of five suspected drug dealers and the seizure of shabu worth P3.8 million in simultaneous operations in Taguig City, Las Pinas City, and Quezon City over the weekend.

A visitor at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City was also nabbed while in possession of P2.3-million shabu.

On Saturday, a composite antinarcotics team from the NCRPO, Southern Police District and Taguig City Police Station conducted buy-bust operations in, Barangay Pinagsama in Taguig, and Barangay Zapote in Las Piñas.

The raids resulted in the arrest of Chris Senn Domingo, Freddie De Ra-

mos, Chris Marshall Domingo, and Clemente Quejada.

Recovered from the suspects were 62.2 grams of shabu worth P400,000.

In Quezon City, 36-year old sari-sari store and eatery owner Mary Grace Pantinople was arrested for possession of 500 grams of shabu with an estimated value of P3.4 million.

Operatives of the Central Police District assisted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency - National Capital Region arrested Pantinople at the Balintawak Market in Barangay Balinggasa Sunday afternoon.

Southern Police District director Brig. Gen. Jimili Macaraeg said the suspect, Raquel Zuñiga, a resident of Marasaga Street, Tatalon, Quezon City, was caught in possession of 350 grams of shabu when she was

frisked while about to enter the maximum security compound of NBP around 1 p.m. Sunday.

The prohibited substance was discovered in four improvised white envelops sealed with scotch tape.

NCRPO director Maj. Gen. Felipe Natividad commended the “unwavering effort of his men in the conduct of drug operations despite its risky and extremely dangerous nature.”

“The campaign against illegal drugs is one of our focused priority effort here in NCRPO. Relatedly, it is also among the most risky operations we have. Hence I commend the elements of SPD for their bravery in successfully arresting these drug suspects and recovering illegal drugs. Your commitment to duty and dedication indeed is worthy of emulation,” he said.

THE Social Security System announced on Monday that P53.27 billion maternity benefits was released to 1.91 million members from 2016 to 2021.

The agency said a significant jump in disbursement was first noted in 2019 following the implementation of Republic Act No. 11210 or the Expanded Maternity Leave Law. The highest peak of releases was recorded in 2021 amounting to P13.90 billion.

“The SSS, as a conduit agency gave its full support to this endeavor through continuous disbursement of maternity benefits to our qualified female members since the law was implemented in March 2019.

We have also recalibrated and simplified the application procedures through online submission of maternity benefit application for members and reimbursement for employers through the My.SSS Portal which started last May 2021,” SSS president and chief operating officer Michael Regino said.

Under the Expanded Maternity Leave Law, the maternity leave was extended from 60 days for normal delivery, 78 days for caesarean deliver to 105 days.

SSS female members may also avail themselves of this benefit, regardless of the frequency, provided that the minimum of three qualifying contributions from the 12-month period prior the semester of childbirth or miscarriage/ emergency termination of pregnancy has been met and were not paid on or after the semester of contingency.

“With the Expanded Maternity Leave Law, the increased amount of maternity benefit and number of maternity leave assisted our female members with their financial needs, providing extra time to recover from childbirth, and most importantly, to spend quality time with their newborn babies,” Regino said. Rio N. Araja

NDRRMC warns vs. floods, landslides amid heavy rains

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT. A multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) lies on its side against a concrete post after it collided with another vehicle on Timog Ave. corner Scout Tuason St. in Quezon City. Police said nobody was reported injured in the accident. Manny Palmero

THE National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) on Monday reminded the public to observe vigilance against flash floods and landslides precipitated by torrential rains.

“We remind the public to remain alert and be prepared for the increasing likelihood of floods and landslides during this rainy season,” NDRRMC chair Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. said in a social media post of the Office of the Civil Defense over the weekend.

Faustino, concurrent Department of National Defense office-in-charge, said the agency would continue to strengthen its “mechanisms, systems, and ac-

tions” to guarantee the safety of the people.

“As we observe the National Disaster Resilience Month, I hope that everyone will take part in our call for collective actions towards a safe, resilient, and prosperous nation,” he added.

Last week, some 500 families were affected by floods in Ifugao province.

The intertropical convergence zone, meanwhile, dumped heavy rains over parts of Cebu, triggering widespread flooding.

Meanwhile, a woman reportedly died in a landslide that buried their house last July 9 at the height of heavy rains in Bataan.

Vets detect ASF in 2 Koronadal City areas KORONADAL CITY – Some 900 hogs in two barangays here have been culled over the weekend to contain the spread of African swine fever (ASF), an official said Monday.

Dr. Charlemagne Calo, the city veterinarian, said at least 850 of the isolated pigs were from a commercial piggery, while 33 were from backyard farms in Barangays Namnama and Rotonda.

“Immediately, the city veterinary office implemented a remedial course of action. Everything is under control

and there is no reason for the public to panic,” Calo said.

He said the city remains in the “pink zone” as there was only one ASF “incursion.”

“Incursion means, the infection came from outside sources. In this case, a commercial farm had a breach in their biosecurity that caused the virus to enter the affected barangays,” he said.

To date, the city veterinary office is prohibiting the movement of hogs within 500 meters to a one-kilometer

radius of the ASF zone.

“We are still observing the pigs and within this week we will get blood samples for our continued recovery from the ASF,” Calo said.

The local government has allocated P131,000 as financial support to the affected pig raisers.

“ASF-affected backyard hog raisers received financial aid that ranges from P2,000 to P5,000 per pig,” Calo said, adding that the city government was also looking for alternative livelihoods for the affected hog raisers.

GIRLS’ CAMP. The U.S. Embassy in Manila and Girl Up, an initiative of the United Nations Foundation, spearhead the Women in Science (WiSci), Technology, Engineering, Arts & Design, Mathematics (STEAM) camp held in the cities of Bacolod, Batac, and Davao.

Leyte lawmakers push for disease control center anew L

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TUESDAY, JULY 12, 2022

News

By Maricel V. Cruz

EYTE 1st District Rep. Martin G. Romualdez and Tingog party-list Reps. Yedda Marie K Romualdez and Jude Acidre have filed a bill that seeks to create a Center for Disease Control (CDC) and modernize the country’s capabilities for public health emergency preparedness and prevention of contagious diseases.

“We hope that with the opening of the 19th Congress, this important measure will again be prioritized by our chamber, and finally be passed into law, so that the country will be better equipped should another pandemic hit us. We have learned our lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, and this measure will ensure our stronger response and preparedness to any public health emergency,” Romualdez said in filing House Bill (HB) No. 9.

Romualdez, the House Majority Leader of the 18th Congress, said the proposed measure will better prepare the country against public health emergencies, through health modernization and institutional reforms.

The proposed “Philippine Center for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) Act” is a consolidation of thirteen (13) House bills establishing the CDC that were referred to the Committee on Health during the previous 18th Congress.

“This bill seeks to modernize the country’s capabilities for public health emergency preparedness and strengthen the current bureaucracy that is mandated to prevent the spread of commu-

nicable diseases in the country through organizational and institutional reforms,” the authors said in their explanatory note of the bill.

“The authors acknowledge the need to modernize and reorganize our health system to protect the public from health risks,” it added.

Under the proposed bill, the CDC POPULATION BOOM. Photo shows children living in a destitute place in Manila. The world’s population is expected to reach 8 will absorb the following Department billion on November 15, the UN said. The UN added that the population should hit 8.5 billion in 2030 and 9.7 billion in 2050, peaking at around 10.4 billion people in the 2080s before steadying at that level until 2100. Danny Pata of Health (DoH) units or their divisions or functions: Epidemiology Bureau; Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM); Sexually Transmitted Disease – Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (STD-AIDS) Covorce in the Philippines. to spouses—husband and wife—as

By Macon Ramos-Araneta operative Central Laboratory; Select “I need to hear their side. Now if well as their children. functions of the International Health The bill, he said. would give people SEN. Raffy Tulfo on Monday said it is they are willing to dialogue with me, I Surveillance Division of the Bureau about time that lawmakers craft a di- will sit down with them, I will present in broken marriages a second chance of Quarantine such as the passive invorce bill for the poor who cannot af- to them all the complaints I have been as some had no choice but to continternational health surveillance and degetting that couples can no longer be ue with their relationships with their ford the high cost of annulment. velopment of communication methods “They want to break away from the together because of abuses,” Tulfo said. spouses even though it is no longer for wider and more effective delivery He believes the “ irreconcilable dif- working for both of them. marriage but they have no money to of critical public health information ferences between a couple could be a “Sometime,s there are people who pay, the violence, the abuses are there, with international importance; Techare not meant to be. We must admit all the elements that warranted the strong rationale for a divorce.” nical and standard setting functions Sen. Robin Padilla said the proposed that. What if the time comes that you need for the separation,” Tulfo said. of the Disease Prevention and Control While acknowledging the separa- measure to legalize divorce is not meet the one for you but you are alBureau including that of the Mental tion of the state and the church, Tulfo meant to destroy marriage but to pro- ready committed? That’s sad. EveryHealth Division, Cancer Division and disclosed he wants a dialogue with the tect victims of broken relationships. He body deserves a second chance,” PaOral Health Division. church which does not agree with di- said this bill intends to give protection dilla also said.

Tulfo, Padilla say about time for PH to have divorce law

Solons support Romualdez plan on e-government

SC asked to lift temporary TRO on COC of Agoo mayoralty bet

By Maricel V. Cruz

By Rey E. Requejo THE Supreme Court (SC) has been asked to lift the temporary restraining order and status quo ante order (SQAO) it issued earlier enjoining the implementation of the resolutions issued by the Commission on Elections canceling the certificate of candidacy of the winning mayoralty candidate of Agoo town in La Union, Frank Ong Sibuma, for allegedly falsifying his place of residence in his COC filed last year.

In a 39-page comment, Alma Panelo through her lawyer Edward Giolago stressed that the injunction issued by the SC last July 5, 2002, has no practical effect considering that the acts sought to be restrained had already been performed by respondent Comelec.

Panelo, who is the complainant in the case filed before the Comelec against Sibuma, argued that the Comelec had already annulled Sibuma’s proclamation and proclaimed Stefanie Eriguel-Calongcagon as the new mayor of Agoo Municipality, La Union prior to the issuance of the TRO. Because of this, Panelo said, the high court should have already dismissed Sibuma’s petition assailing the Comelec’s resolution for lack of merit.

“Considering that private respondent Panelo had already filed this comment and informed the Honorable Court why petitioner Sibuma has no right to assume the office of Mayor of Agoo, La Union due to the finality of the subject resolution cancelling his COC, private respondent Panelo submits that the TRO and status quo ante order issued by the Honorable Court on July 6, 2022 should not be lifted,” Panelo said.

SC COMMENT.

Lawyer Edward Gialogo, representing Alma Panelo and Stefanie Ann Eriguel-Calongcagon, shows a comment they filed at the Supreme court on Monday asking for a review of the disputed mayoralty post in Agoo, La Union. Danny Pata

MISTING. A village worker sprays anti-dengue chemicals on a portion of a backyard of a house in Barangay Kaligayahan in Quezon City on Monday. The activity is part of the anti-dengue drive of the local government in preparation for the rainy season when dengue cases rise. Oliver Marquez

‘President should have power to halt PhilHealth hike’

By Macon Ramos-Araneta SEN. Grace Poe wants to give power to the President to suspend the increase in contributions to the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth).

Poe’s proposed Senate bill seeks to provide that in the event of a state of national emergency or public health emergency or state of national calamity, the President, upon the recommendation of the PhilHealth board after consultation with stakeholders, may suspend the increase in premium contributions.

“By giving the President the power and authority to suspend such increases in times of need, we are also providing our

countrymen a critical lifeline,” Poe said.

She noted that the hike comes at a time when our people continue to grapple with the impact of the pandemic and the soaring prices of basic needs.

“Right now, we must heed their distress call for food to feed their families and jobs to help them get by, with the least burden and utmost support from the government,” Poe stressed.

The measure, which proposes to amend Republic Act No. 11223 or the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act, stipulates that the mandated increase may be implemented upon the lifting of the above condition The senator hopes that her bill will be given due attention to halt the contribution

hike that PhilHealth has imposed beginning June this year.

The premium rate currently being collected is at four percent from the previous three percent.

Being retroactive from January, this means that on top of the increased contributions, PhilHealth members would also have to pay an additional premium of one percent from January to May. Under the law, the premium rate should increase by 0.5 percent yearly, starting from three percent in 2020 until it hits five percent.

In January 2021, then President Rodrigo Duterte directed PhilHealth to defer the scheduled hike amid the health crisis.

Lawmaker seeks amendment to law to protect ‘ander de saya’ husbands

By Maricel V. Cruz A FIRST-TERM legislator on Monday filed a bill that seeks to amend the AntiViolence Against Women and their Children Act by expanding its coverage to “ander de saya” husbands and members of the LGBTQ+ who are also victims of domestic abuse and maltreatment.

“Ander de saya” is a term used for henpecked husbands who are also victims of domestic abuse.

In filing House Bill 1365, Rep. Margarita “Migs” Nograles of the Puwersa ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA) party-list group said that domestic abuse is not an exclusive problem of women and children because there are also many cases where the victims are men

who are either husbands or are gay partners.

Nograles, a lawyer, is the youngest daughter of the late former House Speaker Prospero Nograles.

“It is the fervent hope of this proposed bill that seeks to amend Republic Act No. 9262 and include men and the LGBTQI+ community in its mandate and put an end to the discrimination and domestic abuse and attain a more inclusive society where all human beings are born free and equal,” said Nograles in her explanatory note.

In her proposed “Domestic Violence Act of 2022” Nograles seeks to expand the coverage of RA 9262 by inserting the genderneutral word “partner” to include men and members of the LGBTQI+ aside from the words “women” and “children.”

FOUR legislators from the Bicol region have expressed full support for Leyte 1st District Rep. Martin G. Romualdez’s plan for the 19th Congress to speed up the administration’s digital transformation.

In a show of support for Romualdez, who is touted to be the next House Speaker, the legislators led by Camarines Sur. Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte filed their own version of a bill that provides for the development and interconnection of electronic government or e-government services.

Villafuerte said an e-government system covering all state agencies and corporations as outlined in House Bill 277 “will further improve the ease of doing business and burnish the country’s image as a top investment haven, while letting the people continue transacting official business without actually having to go to the various government agencies personally in the post-Covid 19 scenario.”

HB 277’s co-authors are his fellow Camarines Sur Reps. Miguel Luis Villafuerte and Tsuyoshi Anthony Horibata and Bicol Saro Rep. Nicolas Enciso VIII. HB 277 has come on the heels of the filing by Romualdez and three more legislators of HB 3 mandating all government agencies, including state-run corporations and local governments, to switch to digital or Internet platforms for the delivery of more transparent and more efficient services.

Makati vows to probe elevator accident that killed two workers

By Joel E. Zurbano MAKATI City Mayor Abigail Binay on Monday tapped the Office of the Building Official (OBO) to closely coordinate with police investigators in connection with the Burgundy Tower elevator tragedy that killed two people and injured two others.

Lawyer Michael Camina, Binay’s spokesperson and city chief legal officer, said all elevator repair works at the said building in Barangay Pio del Pilar has been suspended until such time that the OBO lifts the suspension upon the contractor’s full compliance with safety protocols.

“We also enjoin the management of Burgundy Corporate Tower, Otis Philippines, and its contractor, DLC Electron Mechanical Engineering Service, to give their full cooperation in the ongoing investigation,” he said.

The local government also assured the families of the victims it is committed to prosecuting the people responsible for the incident.

Opinion What is a Journalist THE “Life Achievement Award” recently given by the Rotary Club of Manila raises a lot of questions which I believe need answers. First of all, what is a journalist? How do you define journalism as a profession? Can all those writing in newspapers be classified as journalists?

From the internet, the definition of journalism is “ the activity of gathering, assessing, creating and presenting news and information. It is also the product of these activities.

Journalism can be distinguished from other activities and products by certain identifiable characteristics and practices. These elements not only separate journalism from other forms of communication, which make it indispensable to democratic societies. History reveals that the more democratic a society is, the more news and information it tends to have.

There are certain elements of journalism which separates it from other professions, these are : 1. Journalism’s first obligation is to the truth.

2. Its first loyalty is to citizens.

3. Its essence is a discipline of verification.

4. Its practitioners must maintain an independence from those they cover.

5. It must serve as an independent monitor of power.

6. It must provide a forum of public criticism and and compromise 7. It must strive to keep the news significantly interesting and relevant 8. It must keep news comprehensive and proportional, and 9. Its practitioners must be allowed to exercise their personal conscience. “ From my point of view, having been a journalist more than a lawyer, journalism is more of a calling than a profession. It is for these reasons why I believe that it is more a calling than a profession because there are times when a journalist will not hesitate to lay down his life for the sake of truth, and for the sake of press readers in the pursuit of common good and national interest.

The most critical question is, what is a real journalist ? First of all, a journalist must possess curiosity, which makes a journalist ask questions in the wake of a controversy, why did it happen and that there must be a reason for it.

When I wrote the exposes when I was still a Business Editor of the defunct Philippines Herald, I was always curious about things happening at the Central Bank, so much so that I always made my rounds at every office, always asking questions.

Together with the Central Bank at the old Ayuntamiento Building at Intramuros, I made my daily rounds at the Manila Stock Exchange, being friendly with every stock broker, asking questions.

Because of my curiosity, I found out that some Monetary Board members were playing the stock market.

This aroused my curiosity more when I started asking stockbrokers about them.

I soon learned from the grapevine that they had been given dollar quota allocations by the import department. I soon confirmed my suspicions about the three Monetary Board members and wrote about them .

It was headline material.

That started questions from Congress and soon enough, Malacanang asked them to resign.

That led to the day I was kidnapped and made to spend the whole night in a room of the old Hotel Filipinas, under guard by a well known mobster from Cavite, whose only reason for kidnapping me was that the son of his friend, one of the three Monetary Board members, just wanted me to hear his side.

Naturally, I acceded since a journalist must find ways to get both sides of a controversy.

Then President Ramon Magsaysay met me and I told him about the issue, and he asked me whom I would recommend to replace the three MB members, and all I could think of were three honest men, Col. Jaime Velasquez of Ayala, Dr. Gumersindo Garcia of the University of the Philippines, and then Undersecretary Amado Dalisay.

President Magsaysay said, “Done.” But that isn’t the end of the story.

President Magsaysay had security guards assigned to secure my family.

Those were crucial and trying days because my wife complained that even when she would

BELARUS has served as a staging ground for Russia’s intervention in Ukraine, but strongman Alexander Lukashenko has so far avoided becoming a party to the conflict.

Observers stress that there is no end in sight for Moscow’s more than four-month military campaign in Ukraine and do not rule out that Belarus could still be dragged into it, too.

Artyom Shraibman, a non-resident scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said that Lukashenko was keenly aware of the fact that most Belarusians do not support sending troops into Ukraine.

But that does not mean that President Vladimir Putin will not try to put pressure on Lukashenko and that Belarus will not join the offensive in the future.

“There are no rational reasons — or irrational reasons for that matter — for Minsk to join, for Lukashenko to join,” Shraibman told AFP.

go to the bathroom, the female security guard had to accompany her, And I had to house and feed them.

Another thing that a journalist must have is communication skills. Strong communication skills are a must for a journalist. These skills are used on a regular basis to interview sources and to write in-depth stories and reports.

Tech-savviness. With the advancement of information and communication technology, techsavviness is a must. Journalists are expected to know how to use social media as a tool to report happenings and to provide transparent coverage on ongoing events.

But, I must warn journalists to separate truth from lies because social media are often used by bloggers for disinformation and misinformation.

It is also necessary for journalists to have analytical minds.

My advantage is that I am a lawyer and I was trained to argue on both sides of a question or controversy, to analyze things and to distance myself from my emotions regarding stories

A journalist must possess curiosity, which makes a journalist ask questions in the wake of a controversy, why did it happen and that there must be a reason for it Sound judgment is a must for a journalist and he must use it on a regular basis. Even when there are strict deadlines, a journalist should hone the skills to report stories accurately and truthfully.

A journalist is accountable and responsible for what he is writing, while bloggers and vloggers are not.

It is for this reason why I cannot see the justification why bloggers and vloggers must be accredited to cover the President. Whoever recommended it must be stupid.

The last question that often comes to me is: are all those writing columns in news real journalists ?

The answer is a big flat “NO” because a trueblooded journalist must go through the mill.

By going through the mill, as I have, refers to the fact that a real journalist must start from the bottom, like covering beats from the police as a start.

The highest beat in a newspaper is being a member of the Malacanang Press Corps. Of course, when a journalist like me, who went through the mill, becomes a chairman of the Editorial Board, that’s an achievement in a journalist’s life.

Those who write columns in newspapers are not journalists. I consider them contributors.

They lend their expertise, like experts in geopolitics, governance, business, sports, lifestyle, entertainment, society goings-on, environment, agriculture, and even culture.

Priests who write a column lend their expertise in religion, military men their expertise in military matters and so on and so forth.

There are of course those writing a column who are considered more as journalists because of their expertise.

Columnists like Rigoberto Tiglao to me is a real journalist, having written at The Economist, and my colleague Tony Lopez is a real journalist, publishing the BIZNews Asia and having been a correspondent of the defunct Newsweek.

Years ago, only journalists who had earned their spurs, to speak, could write a column.

Now, anybody who thinks he or she can write, writes. Santa Banana, I had to earn my spurs before I could write a political column and I had to qualify as a radio and television commentator and interviewer.

A lot of my friends will resent me for this column on who are true and real journalists, but I must say it.

Journalism profession, to me, is more a calling than a career.

You will never get rich being a journalist. Surprisingly, our mainstream newspapers are full of columnists. In one newspaper alone, I counted 27 columnists. In other words, column-writing has been bastardized.

And now BBM’s press secretary wants to accredit bloggers and vloggers to cover the President, Santa Banana, she wants to bastardize the Malacanang Press Corps!

“What is Putin capable of doing? Will he be able to force Lukashenko to join? It’s an open question.”

Lukashenko has sought to promote himself as Putin’s most faithful ally, welcoming Russian troops under the pretext of military exercises before Moscow launched its Ukraine offensive, trying and failing to take the capital Kyiv.

He has also argued that had Moscow not intervened, Ukraine would have attacked Belarus.

Despite officially being a non-belligerent, the Belarus strongman has demanded that his country be included in any talks and a deal to end the conflict.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said this week that Kyiv did not believe Minsk would be dragged into the conflict.

“But there are and will be provocations,” Zelensky said.

“There is a threat of Belarus getting involved.”

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EDITORIAL

Will Belarus join Moscow’s Ukraine offensive?

By Andrea Palasiano

TUESDAY, JULY 12, 2022

Let there be light AST week, the Energy Regulatory Commission ordered — for the fourth time since last year — the listed power distributor Manila Electric Company (Meralco) to refund to its residential customers a total P21.8 billion in overcharges.

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That translates to 87 centavos per kilowatt hour, a hefty amount — if in fact it should thus be refunded — which would mean a good financial load off the shoulders of customers.

It boggles the mind that Meralco is slower in making the refund than in imposing previously the overcharges.

The ERC, in its 68-page decision, directed Meralco to reimburse residential customers the equivalent of 87 centavos per kilowatt hour (kWh), which means a typical household that consumes 200 kWh per month will see a P174 refund in the bill beginning in July and in the next 11 months for a lump sum of P2,088.

Hopes are high among customers, who have been jabbed by the pandemic, that Meralco will implement the refund, faster, if possible, than a customer can see the wall or ceiling lights even before he can press the switch on.

Hopes are high among customers, who have been jabbed by the pandemic, that Meralco will implement the refund, faster, if possible, than a customer can see the wall or ceiling lights even before he can press the switch on ERC chairperson Agnes Devanadera said the adjustments have been made to reflect the final computation of a tariff-setting methodology by which power firms are able to collect distribution costs.

Customarily, a distribution firm is given a five-year regulator-approved formula to compute distribution

expenses — in the instant case the overcharges covered July 2015 to June 22.

Said Devanadera in a statement: “We wanted to ensure that all overrecoveries shall be refunded complete with interest.” Which is just proper.

It is edifying a thought that Meralco vice president and head of corporate communications Joe Zaldarriaga has said Meralco will comply with the ERC order.

Read Zaldarriaga’s lips: “We are currently studying the order so we can start reflecting this in the power bills this month (July).

“While we have yet to receive suppliers’ billings, there is a possibility that the refund can offset the expected increase in generation charge and lead to a reduction in the overall power rates for July.”

ERC earlier on ordered a refund of P13.9 billion in over-recoveries in January 2021, a P4.8 billion refund in February this year, which brings the total refund for residential customers to P1.8009 per kWh. Let the rresidential customers see the light of the ERC order in their bill this month.

Ambeth Ocampo, historian and truth warrior

“HISTORY may have bias but it is based on fact, not opinion. Real History is about Truth, not lies, not fiction,” noted Philippine historian Ambeth Ocampo, in reaction to actress Ella Cruz’ comment in an interview where the actress brushed off past history as mere gossip.

Cruz plays Irene Marcos in the upcoming film ‘Maid in Malacañang,’ regarded by many as a propaganda and an attempt to whitewash the role of the Marcoses in Philippine politics.

Cruz’ dismissive view of Philippine history is seen by not a few opinion makers in the internet as a pitiable attempt to create some semblance of respectability to the historical characters that the film will be portraying.

Her controversial take on the matter, which I suspect was but a knee-jerk response to an equally controversial topic, drew a ton of negative reactions from netizens, celebrities and selfproclaimed opinion makers.

What is disturbing is that when Ocampo weighed in on the controversial remark that he too became the target of vicious attacks from proMarcos trolls.

The verbal assaults against the historian have been so vicious such that his attackers often resort to ad hominem argumentations devoid of any empirical and factual basis.

This kind of reasoning is contrived for no other reason than to destroy the reputation and character of the subject. This sort deserves no place in a civilized discourse, let alone in a democratic setting.

Let us examine Ocampo’s statement.

“History may have bias but it is based on fact, not opinion. Real History is about Truth, not lies, not fiction,” One cannot deny that an event or occurrence becomes part of history because there is universal assent that it really happened.

“Otherwise, it is reduced to tsismis and a myth or fiction without any factual basis. Can anyone honestly deny that once upon a time a president

Despite officially being a non-belligerent, the Belarus strongman has demanded that his country be included in any talks and a deal to end the conflict ‘Zero combat experience’ Tensions between Ukraine and Belarus have been growing.

In early July, Lukashenko said his army had shot down missiles fired into their territory from Ukraine and vowed to respond “instantly” to any enemy strike.

Putin has said that Moscow will deliver Iskander-M missiles capable of carrying nuclear weapons to Belarus “in the coming months”.

Shraibman, who fled Lukashenko’s repressive

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

named Ferdinand Marcos Sr. became an autocrat who wielded dictatorial powers; that his family and cronies were accused of plunder; that they were booted out by the Filipino people in a revolution?”

Ocampo’s statement correcting the clearly mistaken assertion of Miss Cruz is a perfectly valid point.

But as to whether the presidency of Marcos was good or bad for the country, this is subject to interpretation, the answer depends who is talking impelled only by his own convictions, biases or pertinent personal or vicarious experiences.

The verbal assaults against the historian have been so vicious such that his attackers often resort to ad hominem argumentations devoid of any empirical and factual basis Yet it is wrong to viciously attack Ocampo for saying that history may have bias.

Often interpretation of a historical event is tainted with lies and falsehood. If so, it ceases to become history but reduced to “fake news” which is reprehensible due to its pernicious effects to society. Historical distortion, if it gains widespread circulation and acceptance, will become the “ accepted truth”. It then becomes a venom that poisons the hearts of its believers like a gangrenous cancer.

Ambeth Ocampo is a noted Philippine historian with impeccable credentials. He has volumes of published books and papers to his credit, a longtime professor and a respected lecturer.

Before this unfortunate incident, no one dared accuse Ocampo of being a purveyor of fake news in his public presentations which as a noted scholar, I must say, are based on solid research and indepth study of facts beforehand. regime in 2021, pointed out that the Belarusian strongman provided the necessary logistical support for Russia but has conspicuously refrained from sending troops to Ukraine.

“I’m not sure the Belarusian army would add much,” he said.

“It’s way more reasonable to keep them on the border, to keep Ukrainians on alert on the border, rather than moving the few battalions Belarus has into war.”

Russian military analyst Alexander Khramchikhin struck a similar note, saying Minsk’s involvement in the conflict was unlikely.

“The Belarusian army has zero combat experience compared to both the Ukrainian and Russian armies,” he said.

“Its combat value is very low.”

He said it was more useful for Putin to use Belarus to maintain “a certain tension” on the border with Poland.

Nevertheless, he said, if the Belarusian troops were to attack, “it will create quite significant additional stress for Ukraine, because it will be an attack from a new direction.”

Experts say Belarus’s role in the Ukraine offensive will ultimately depend on what Putin wants.

I’m not saying that the historian’s interpretation should be taken as gospel truth.

Admittedly, even experts differ on how to interpret historical facts.

What I’m saying is, we should learn to agree to disagree.

Being tolerant of people who may espouse contrary view, being civil and respectful to them through reasoned persuasion.

Historical events are often wrapped in lies, biases, prejudices, bigotry that have piled up in the course of time, one must slowly peel off these impurities to uncover historical truth based solely on unassailable and iron-clad evidence.

Reliable decisions about past events and identities require an exhaustive use of resources, a knowledgeable interpretation of the records, and a skilled correlation and evaluation of evidence. In the end, each of us will form our own judgment and interpretation of historical occurrences, including the Marcos years.

But to genuinely say that we read history with intellectual honesty, it imperative that our decision is not clouded by convenience, by prejudices or blind loyalty, or any other ill motive.

When Winston Churchill was asked in 1939 about the possible action of Russia, he was quoted as saying “I cannot forecast to you the action of Russia. It is a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma; but perhaps there is a key. That key is Russian national interest.”

Like Russia in the eyes of the great statesman Churchill, fail safe way to see the Marcos era, or any historical event for that matter, is to judge and decide with national interest foremost on our minds.

Prof. Ambeth, who I claim as a colleague in Ateneo de Manila University and as a good friend, once said that “History does not repeat itself. Its people who repeat it. But we blame history because we do not want to blame ourselves.”

If we allow this attacks on this esteemed historian to continue and we do not come together to defend this truth warrior, we only have ourselves to blame for the kind of country we will leave to future generations.

Website: tonylavina.com Facebook page: deantonylavs Twitter: tonylavs Lukashenko, 67, is heavily dependent on the Russian leader militarily and economically.

When unprecedented protests rocked Belarus in 2020 over an election the opposition says he stole, the moustachioed leader relied on Moscow to stabilise his position.

‘Peaceful nation’ Political analysts say that if Lukashenko goes to war against Ukraine he risks reigniting the mass protests that shook his rule in 2020-2021.

“I think President Lukashenko is well aware that this will not be something that will strengthen his popularity in the country,” Kremlin-connected political analyst Fyodor Lukyanov told AFP. According to a June poll by the British thinktank Chatham House, 43 percent of Belarusians do not support the Russian offensive in Ukraine.

Only 4 percent would back the involvement of the Belarusian army.

Veronica Laputska, co-founder of the think-tank EAST Center in Warsaw, said that the Belarusian people sustained huge losses during World War II when around one in four died and were deeply averse to “any type of violence”.

“Belarusians are a very peaceful nation,” she said. AFP

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

Associate Editors News Editor City Editor

Honor Blanco Cabie Opinion Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

Manila

Standard Republic of the Philippines

K

TODAY

ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION Pasig City IN THE MATTER OF THE JOINT APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF THE POWER SUPPLY AGREEMENT BETWEEN SN ABOITIZ POWERBENGUET, INC. AND IFUGAO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC., WITH PRAYERS FOR PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY AND CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT OF INFORMATION,

K-1

Amended ECC CAR 0808-077-4021 issued for the proposed rehabilitation and upgrade of the Ambuklao Plant on December 1, 2010

K-2

ECC CAR 0903-032-4021 issued for the proposed rehabilitation and upgrade of Binga Plant on April 21, 2009

K-3

Amended DENR ECC CAR 0903-032-4021 issued for the proposed rehabilitation and upgrade of Binga Plant in 2011

L

ERC CASE NO. 2022-040 RC SN ABOITIZ POWER-BENGUET, INC. AND IFUGAO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC., Applicants.

---------------------------------------------------

Energy Regulatory Commission (“ERC”) Provisional Authority to Operate (“PAO”) for the 104.550 MW Ambuklao Plant and its 0.634 MW Emergency Diesel Engine Sets for a period of one (1) year from August 31, 2021 to August 30, 2022

L-2

Proof of Application for the Renewal of COC of Binga Plant Statement of Account and Official Receipt for payment for COC-IPP renewal of the Binga Plant

M

Department of Energy (“DOE”) Certificate of Endorsement (“COE”) No. 2020-08-003 for the Renewal of ERC COC for the Ambuklao Plant dated September 2, 2020

M-1

DOE COE No. 2020-08-004 for the Renewal of ERC COC for the Binga Plant dated September 2, 2020

NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING

The pertinent allegations of the Joint Application are hereunder quoted as follows: l.

N

NATURE OF THE APPLICATION 1.

2.

Pursuant to Republic Act No. 9136 or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (“EPlRA”), a Distribution Utility (“DU”) shall have the obligation to supply electricity in the least cost manner to its captive market, subject to the collection of retail rate duly approved by this Honorable Commission.1 To promote true market competition, DUs may enter bilateral power supply contracts subject to this Commission’s review.2 Under Rule 3, Section 4(e) of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the EPlRA (“EPlRA IRR”), this Honorable Commission shall be responsible for any application or petition for rate adjustment, and may grant provisional authority for the relief prayed for.3 Thus, this Application is being filed for the approval of the Renewable Power Supply Agreement executed on January 20, 2022 by and between SNAP-BI and IFELCO (the “PSA”) pursuant to Rule 20(B), in relation to Rule 14, Section 1, of the Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure of the ERC (“Revised ERC Rules”).4

II.

THE APPLICANTS

A.

IFELCO 5.

6.

IFELCO has been granted Certificate of Franchise by the National Electrification Commission (“NEC”) to operate an electric light and power selvice in the municipalities of Banaue, Hungduan, Kiangan, Lagawe, Lamut, and Mayoyao. IFELCO also operates in the Municipalities of Hingyon, Asipulo, Aguinaldo, Alfonso Lista and Tinoc (the 11 municipalities shall collectively be referred to as the “Franchise Area”).

A

IFELCO’s Articles of Incorporation dated May 16,1977

B

IFELCO’s By-Laws adopted on April 28, 1977 together with Amended By-Laws adopted on July 3, 1984

B-1

IFELCO’s Certificate of Franchise dated September 24, 1980

C B.

Articles of Incorporation dated February 13, 2007 (in the name of SN Aboitiz Power Hydro, Inc., SNAP-Bl’s former name)

D-1

Certificate of Filing Amended Articles of Incorporation dated April 22, 2008 (Amending Articles 1 and III)

D-2

Certificate of Filing Amended Articles of Incorporation dated August 15, 2008 (Amending Articles II and VII)

D-3

Certificate of Filing Amended Articles of Incorporation dated September 7, 2011 (Amending Article II Primary Purpose)

D-5

Certificate of Filing Incorporation dated (Amending Article VII)

D-6

Certificate of Filing Amended Articles of Incorporation dated January 13, 2016 (Amending Article VII) Certificate of Filing Amended Articles of Incorporation dated April 12, 2019 (Amending Article II Primary Purpose)

E

By-Laws adopted on February 13, 2007 (in the name of SN Aboitiz Power Hydro, Inc., SNAP-BI’s former name)

E-1

Certificate of Filing of Amended By-Laws issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on October 31, 2008

E-2

Certificate of Filing of Amended By-Laws issued by the SEC on November 19, 2010

E-3

Certificate of Filing of Amended By-Laws issued by the SEC on December 3, 2014

F

SNAP-BI’s latest General Information Sheet (“GIS”) submitted to the SEC on June 8, 2021 with SNAP-BI’s list of shareholders

G

Certification dated August 16, 2021 with attached Conglomerate Map of SN Aboitiz Power Corporation as of June 30, 2021 Latest GIS of SNAP-BI’s affiliate companies submitted to the SEC on June 8, 2021:

G-1 G-2 G-3 G-4 G-5 G-6 G-7 G-8 G-9 G-10 G-11

H H-1

I

4.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Neptune Hydro, Inc. SN Aboitiz-Cordillera, Inc. SN Aboitiz Power-Energy, Inc. SN Aboitiz Power-Generation, Inc. SN Aboitiz Power-Greenfield, Inc. SN Aboitiz Power-Ifugao, Inc. SN Aboitiz Power-Magat, Inc. SN Aboitiz Power-Projects, Inc. SN Aboitiz Power-Renewable, Inc. SN Aboitiz Power-RES, Inc.

Latest GIS of SNAP-BI’s parent company, ManilaOslo Renewable Enterprise, Inc., submitted to the SEC on June 8, 2021 [Confidential] Shareholders’ Agreement dated August 27, 2015 [Confidential] 2021 Amended and Restated Shareholders’ Agreement dated September 28,2021 Certificate of Incorporation issued by the (sic) on March 12, 2007 (in the name of SN Aboitiz Power Hydro, Inc., SNAP-Bl’s former name)

SNAP-BI owns, operates, and maintains the 104.550 MW Ambuklao Hydroelectric Power Plant (the “Ambuklao Plant”) located in Bokod, Benguet and the 140.080 MW Binga Hydroelectric Power Plant (the “Binga Plant”) located in Brgy Tinongdan, Itogon, Benguet.

Copies of the documents relating to SNAP-BI’s operations as a generation company are attached as follows: Annex

Document

J

Board of Investments (“BOI”) Certificate of Registration No. 2008-214 issued to SNAPBI on August 12, 2008 as New Operator of the Ambuklao Plant with Specific Terms and Conditions

J-1

BOI Certificate of Registration No. 2008-213 issued to SNAP-BI on August 12, 2008 as New Operator of the Binga Plant with Specific Terms and Conditions

12.2. Technical Specifications and Fee Schedule.7 Capacity Fees will be based on the peak demand consumption of each month, capped at the Contracted Demand. Energy Fees will be based on the Adjusted Metered Quantities (”AMQ”).

However, the Minimum Annual Energy requirement should be met. Annual Adjustment shall be observed for the periods with total Annual Bilateral Contract Quantity (“BCQ”) Nomination below the Minimum Annual Energy requirement, following this formula: Annual Adjustment = (Minimum Annual Energy - Annual BCQ Nomination) x Contracted Energy Charge Where: Minimum Annual Energy

32,500,000 kWh

N-1

Hydropower Service Contract No. 2016-05-620 dated June 24, 2016 between the Government and SNAP-BI for the Binga Plant

Annual BCQ Nomination

Final AMQ for the previous 12-month Billing Cycle

O

DOE Certificate of Registration (“COR”) No. HSC 2016-04-619 issued by the DOE on June 2, 2016 to SNAP-BI as a Renewal Energy Developer (“RE Developer”) of the 104.55 MW Ambuklao Plant issued by DOE

Contracted Energy Charge

Contracted Energy Charge for the previous 12-month Billing Cycle

The table below shows Contracted Demand and Energy

DOE COR No. HSC 2016-05-620 issued by the DOE on June 24, 2016 to SNAP-BI as an RE Developer of the Binga Plant dated June 24, 2016

O-2

ERC’s Letter to SNAP-BI dated June 7, 2021 explaining that there is no need for declaration and confirmation of commerciality for the Ambuklao Plant and Binga Plant

P

National Water Resources Board (“NWRB”) Water Permit No. 10-08-039 issued on October 4, 2013 for the Ambuklao Plant (Bokod, Benguet)

P-1

NWRB Water Permit No. 10-08-038 issued on October 4, 2013 for the Binga Plant (Itogon, Benguet)

Contracted Demand (kW) per hour

7,500

Minimum Annual Energy (kWh) per Contract Year

32,500,000

12.2.1.

Contracted Demand and Energy Charge for the first year is broken down as follows:

Contracted Demand Charge (Php/kW) Capacity Fee

1,843.7372

Contracted Energy Charge (Php/kWh) Fixed O&M Cost Variable O&M Cost Total O&M Cost

0.8202 0.3049 1.1251

The Contracted Energy Charge is subject to an annual escalation based on the formula below:

As mentioned above, DUs (such as IFELCO) may enter into bilateral supply contracts to supply electricity in the least cost manner to its captive market and ensure continuous and reliable electricity to its customers.

Energy Chargen-1

Effective Fixed and Variable O&M Cost for the previous year

CPln-1

Average CPI for the previous year, starting January until December

CPlo

Average CPI for the base year (2020), starting January until December

IFELCO’s forecasted demand and supply scenario for the years 2020 to 2029 is consistent with its Power Supply Procurement Plan, as shown in the power supply and demand scenario in the Franchise Area.

Annex

Document

Q

Demand Side Management (DSM) of IFELCO

R

Certification by IFELCO on Transition Supply Contract capacity and energy (not applicable)

S

Forecasted Consumption Data and Forecasted Supply vs. Demand of IFELCO

T

Power Supply Procurement Plan 2020 of IFELCO

T-1

IFELCO’s Supply and Demand Scenario, Details of Existing Suppliers, Contract Utilization and Average Daily Load Curve

T-2

IFELCO Single Line Diagram Connection

T-3

IFELCO Performance Assessment of the System

T-4

Estimate for Reduction in Load Supplied by IFELCO due to Retail Competition

12.3. Replacement of Energy during Plant Outage. SNAP-BI has the right to source replacement energy from its own back-up facilities or any third party, as long as it is Renewable Energy Technology, for reasons other than those SNAP-BI Force Majeure Event and shall have the same effect as though sourced from SNAP-BI’s facilities.8 12.4. Force Majeure. No payment shall be required on the portion of the Capacity Fee, proportionate to the number of intervals under Force Majeure.9 Neither party shall be considered in breach of its obligations if it is prevented from fulfilling such obligations (except payment obligations) due to a Force Majeure Event provided that: (a) the Party claiming occurrence of a Force Majeure Event gives notice of such event to the other party within seven (7) days from occurrence of Force Majeure Event; (b) the Party claiming Force Majeure exerts due diligence to mitigate the effect of Force Majeure; and (c) the effect of Force Majeure does not exceed thirty (30) days.10

Competitive Selection Process (“CSP”) for the Supply of Energy 9.

Following the conduct of CSP for the procurement of baseload capacity, IFELCO executed the PSA with SNAP-BI. The conduct of CSP proceeded as follows:

12.5. PAYMENT OF FEES. The Fees due for Contracted Demand and Energy shall be subject to ERC’s approval and subject to annual adjustment based on the Philippine Consumer Price Index. 11

9.1. Pursuant to DOE Department Circular No. DC2018-02-0003 (the “DOE 2018 CSP Rules”), IFELCO submitted to the DOE the Terms of Reference (“TOR”) which was subsequently approved by the DOE. 9.2. On April 14 and 21, 2021, IFELCO caused the publication of an Invitation to Bid (the “Invitation”), containing the TOR, indicating a summary of the process and timelines of the CSP, and inviting power generation companies to submit an Expression of Interest and Confidentiality Undertaking on or before the deadline set out in the Invitation.

Amended Articles of December 3, 2014

D-7

The salient features of the PSA are summarized below: 12.1. Term. The PSA shall commence on the Effective Date of the PSA which shall be on the next immediate 26th day of the month following the completion of condition precedents to supply and after ERC’s approval of the PSA. Any Provisional Authority granted by ERC shall be considered as approval for purposes of determining the Effectivity Date.5 The PSA shall then remain in full force and effect for a period of nine years or 108 months from the Effective Date of the PSA.6

Fixed and Variable O&M Cost for the current billing period

Certificate of Filing Amended Articles of Incorporation dated November 19, 2010 (Amending Article VII)

D-4

The CSP conducted by the TPBAC was well-structured, fair, and transparent. Under Rule 20(B) of the Revised ERC Rules, an application for approval of a Power Supply Contract should be submitted before this Honorable Commission. Hence, this Joint Application.

SALIENT PROVISIONS OF THE PSA 12.

Copies of the documents showing the power supply and demand scenario in the Franchise Area are attached as follows:

B.

9.3. On June 15, 2021, the bidders submitted their compliance with the Bid Requirements and the respective submissions of the bidders were opened by the Third-Party Bids and Awards Committee (“TPBAC”).

Document

U

IFELCO Invitation to Bid, ITB No. TPBAC 202101

U-1

IFELCO Invitation to Bid published on April 14 and 21, 2021

U-2

[Confidential] IFELCO Instruction to Bidders

U-3

IFELCO Bid Bulletins

U-4 U-5 U-6

[Confidential] SNAP-BI Envelope

U-7

IFELCO shall pay in full the amounts indicated in the Invoice on or before the last calendar day of the succeeding month of the subject Billing Period.12

12.5.2.

IFELCO is entitled to a 3.50% Prompt Payment Discount on the Fees due for a Billing Period provided that IFELCO satisfies all of the criteria provided in the PSA.13

12.5.3.

IFELCO shall provide SNAP-BI with a Guarantee Bond in the form of cash, stand-by letter of credit, or bond issued by providers duly approved by SNAP-BI.14

a. b. c.

Copies of the documents relating to SNAP-BI’s selection and qualification as the winning bidder under the CSP are attached as follows: Annex

12.5.1.

12.6. TERMINATION. The PSA may be terminated upon the occurrence of any of the following events:

9.4. The TPBAC issued Resolution No. 02 series of 2021 dated July 2,2021 declaring SNAP-Bl’s bid as the lowest calculated responsive bid and recommending approval and award for the supply of the 7.5 MW base load requirement of IFELCO through CSP. 10.

for

Joint Sworn Statement on Compliance with CSP Policy and Guidelines

Energy Chargen

Copies of the documents relating to SNAP-Bl’s registration as a generation company are attached as follows:

D

Motion

Where:

(sic) SNAP-Bl is a corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of the Republic of the Philippines, with principal address at Binga Hydro Electric Power Plant, Brgy. Tinongdan, Itogon, Benguet Province. SNAP-BI may be served processes, pleadings, and orders through its undersigned counsel at the address indicated below.

Document

IV.

EDC’s

8.

List of IFELCO’s Board of Directors

Annex

11.

to

The Power Supply and Demand Scenario in the Franchise Area

SNAP-Bl 3.

IFELCO’s Reply Reconsideration

STATEMENT OF FACTS 7.

A.

Document

U-24-B

12.2.2.

Ill.

Copies of the documents proving IFELCO’s incorporation, registration, and permit to operate as a DU are attached as follows: Annex

Motion for Reconsideration filed by EDC

Hydropower Service Contract No. 2016-04-619 dated June 2, 2016 between the Republic of the Philippines (the “Government”) and SNAP-BI for the Ambuklao Plant

O-1

(sic) IFELCO is a rural electric cooperative formed primarily for the purpose of supplying, promoting, and encouraging the fullest use of electric service to its members which is duly organized and existing under the laws of the Republic of the Philippines, with principal office in the Municipality of Lagawe, Province of lfugao.

IFELCO may be served processes, pleadings, and orders through the undersigned counsel at the address indicated below.

U-24-A

U-25

ERC Certificate of Compliance (“COC”) No. 17-03-M-00309L for the 140.08 MW Binga Plant dated March 9, 2017 and valid for the period of March 12, 2017 to March 11, 2022

L-1

TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES: Notice is hereby given that on 26 May 2022, SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet, Inc. (SNAP-BI) and Ifugao Electric Cooperative, Inc. (IFELCO) filed a Joint Application dated 04 April 2022, seeking the Commission’s approval of their Power Supply Agreement (PSA), with prayer for provisional authority or interim relief and motion for confidential treatment of information.

Environmental Compliance Certificate (“ECC”) CAR 0808-077-4021 issued for the proposed rehabilitation and upgrade of the Ambuklao Plant on August 12, 2008

d.

e.

V.

Event of Default by either party; 15 Extended Force Majeure; 16 Either Party having been prevented from continuing operations by reasons of Force Majeure; 17 The shareholders of either party passes a resolution for winding-up or either party commences proceedings before any court or administrative tribunal for windingup, dissolution, bankruptcy, or similar relief; or18 Valid expropriation by government authority of SNAPBl’s Facilities or IFELCO’s Facilities.19

OTHER RELATED DOCUMENTS 13.

In compliance with the Revised ERC Rules, copies of the following “Related Agreements” are also attached in support of this Joint Application: 20 Annex

Document

IFELCO Terms of Reference

V

[Confidential] Power Supply Agreement (the PSA)

[Confidential] EDC Envelope

W

Transmission Service Agreement between National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (“NGCP”) and SNAP-BI for the Ambuklao Plant

[Confidential] TPBAC Resolution No. 02, s. 2021 dated June 23, 2021

W-1

Transmission Service Agreement between NGCP and SNAP-BI for the Binga Plant

U-8

[Confidential] IFELCO’s Board Resolution No. 49, Series of 2021 confirming approval of TPBAC evaluation report

X

Connection Agreement between NGCP and SNAP-BI for the Ambuklao Plant

[Confidential] Notice of Award dated July 7,2021

X-1

U-9

Connection Agreement between NGCP and SNAP-BI for the Binga Plant

U-10

Certification from General Manager of IFELCO on the conduct of CSP issued on July 7, 2021

Y

Metering Service Agreement NGCP and SNAP-BI for the Ambuklao Plant

Y-1

Metering Service Agreement between NGCP and SNAP-BI for the Binga Plant

Z

Write up on the inapplicability of certain documentary requirements to the Joint Application

U-11

[Confidential] Matrix and Type of CSP

U-12

[Confidential] Minutes of the Meetings for the PreBid Conference dated May 5, 2021

U-13

[Confidential] Minutes of the Meeting for the conduct of Due Diligence dated May 10,2021

U-14

[Confidential] Minutes of the second Pre-Bid Conference dated May 25, 2021

U-15

[Confidential] Minutes of the Opening of Bids dated June 15, 2021

U-16

[Confidential] Minutes of the Evaluation of Bids dated June 16, 2021

U-17

[Confidential] Minutes of the Post Qualification of Bids dated June 23, 2021

Annex

U-18

[Confidential] Abstract of Bid

A. Details of the PSA

U-19

[Confidential] Bidding Tally Sheet during Opening of Bids

AA

U-20

[Confidential] Bidding Tally Sheet during PostQualification

B. Generation/Power Rate

U-21

DOE Approval of the TPBAC Membership

U-22

Invitation of CSP Observers at different stages of the Bid

U-23

DOE Notice to Proceed for the conduct of CSP

U-23-A U-24

NEA Notice to Proceed for the signing of the PSA Notice of Ineligibility issued to EDC by IFELCO

VI.

COMPLIANCE WITH DOCUMENTARY REQUIREMENTS 14.

In compliance with Rule 20(8.1), Section 2 of the Revised ERC Rules and this Honorable Commission’s Checklist of Pre-Filing Requirements for Applications for Approval of Power Supply Agreement (PSA) (Form No: LS-CL-001; the “ERC Pre-Filing Checklist”), attached are the following documents providing further details on (a) the PSA, and SNAP-Bl’s: (b) sources of funds/financial plans, (e) generation rate and derivation, and (d) cash flow: Document

[Confidential] Executive Summary of the PSA Salient Features (PSA Salient Features)

BB

[Confidential] TCGR & Rate Derivation

BB-1

[Confidential] (RFR) PHP-BVAL-Reference-Rates Benchmark-Tenors_ 2019-01-02

BB-2

[Confidential] Beta 2019

BB-3

[Confidential] MRP 2019

C. Sources of Funds/Financial Plans CC

[Confidential] Bank of the Philippines Islands (“BPI”) Loan Certificate with Loan Schedule

CC-1

[Confidential] BDO Unibank, Inc. (“BDO”) Loan Certificate with Loan Schedule

18.

D. Audited Financial Statements DD

SNAP-BI’s Audited Financial Statements 2019

DD-1

SNAP-Bl’s Audited Financial Statements 2021

DD-2

SNAP-Bl’s Audited Financial Statements 2013

Rule 6, Section 2 of the Revised ERC Rules also requires the Applicant to publish the entire Application, excluding its annexes, in a newspaper of general circulation within the Applicants’ franchise area or area where they principally operate.21 In compliance thereof, the Applicants caused the publication of the Application in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines, as shown by the following:

E. Other Documents

VII.

EE

[Confidential] Sample Computation of Power Rates with the supporting documents on the assumptions taken

FF

Technical and Economic Characteristics

GG

WESM Registration

GENERATION RATE IMPACT 15.

16.

IFELCO conducted a rate impact simulation to determine the impact of the implementation of the PSA on IFELCO’s generation costs.

Without the PSA in place, IFELCO may be exposed to relatively volatile Wholesale Electricity Stock Market (“WESM”) prices which, based on IFELCO’s latest available data as of October 2021, resulted in a weighted average generation rate of Ᵽ5.5/kWh. The prices under the PSA would enable IFELCO to reduce the generation rate by around Ᵽ0.27/kWh. In addition, if IFELCO can meet the requirements to avail of the prompt payment discount, it would enjoy a substantial reduction in generation rates by as much as Ᵽ0.45/kWh. A copy of the rate impact simulation and analysis is attached as Annex HH [confidential] and is made an integral part hereof (with motion for confidential treatment).

Document

KK

Affidavit of Publication executed by the editorin-chief or duly authorized representative of the publisher

LL

A copy of the newspaper wherein Application was published

ALLEGATIONS IN SUPPORT OF THE APPLICANTS’ PRAYER FOR PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY 19.

Under Rule 14, Section 1 of the Revised ERC Rules, this Honorable Commission is authorized to issue provisional authority or interim relief prior to a final decision, provided that the facts and circumstances alleged warrant such remedy.

20.

The facts and circumstances in this Application warrant the issuance by this Honorable Commission of the provisional authority prayed for.

Indeed, a provisional authority is needed to prevent a delay in the implementation of the PSA - so that IFELCO would have sufficient electricity with which to supply its consumers in the Franchise Area.

There is an urgent necessity for the approval of the PSA to address the electricity requirements of IFELCO and its consumers and to avoid power interruptions in the Franchise Area.

21.

VIII. COMPLIANCE WITH PRE-FILING REQUIREMENTS 17.

Annex

In compliance with Rule 6, Section 2 of the Revised ERC Rules, the Applicants have furnished copies of this Application to the legislative bodies of each of the local government units where they principally operate, as shown by the following: 22.

In a statement published on January 18, 2022,22 the NGCP warned of thin power supply due to higher demand in the new normal with the DOE forecasting a total peak demand of 12,387 MW for Luzon in the last week of May, a 747MW increase from the actual 2021 peak load of 11,640MW which occurred on May 28,2021. In addition, the NGCP stated that yellow alerts have been issued as early as January 10 and 11, 2022 and red alerts were issued over the Luzon Grid last year on May 31, June 1, and June 2, 2021 when a similar round of extended and unplanned maintenance shutdowns and derations occurred.

Manila

Standard

27.

The information contained in the bid documents (i.e., enumerated under par. 26(A)) pertains to the bidding process and the evaluation TODAY of bids undertaken by IFELCO. The information contained in these documents should be treated as confidential to safeguard the integrity of the bidding process.

28.

The documents enumerated under par. 26(B) above should not be disclosed to any other party or third person since the information contained therein are confidential and proprietary to SNAP-BI. SNAP-BI has an actual and valuable proprietary interest to protect the information contained in these documents, which are not generally available to the public. These details are part of SNAP-BI’s competitive advantage in the power generation industry with an economic value (actual or potential) derived from not being generally known to, and not being readily ascertainable by, other persons such as SNAP-BI’s competitors, who can obtain economic value from the disclosure of the pieces of information to the detriment of SNAP-BI.

29.

The nature of the information in these documents, which go into SNAP-BI’s pricing and business, is so significant that unquantifiable damage could result to SNAP-BI if the information were to be shown to its competitors, including other power generators.

Furthermore, the information contained in these documents are not in the possession of this Honorable Commission on a nonconfidential basis and have not been declared as non-confidential in nature in any previous decision or policies by the Commission.

30.

For the same reasons discussed above, IFELCO similarly manifests that it has an actual and valuable proprietary interest to protect the information in the Rate Impact Simulation (i.e., Annex HH) which is not (a) generally available to the public. and (b) readily ascertainable by other persons, including IFELCO’s competitors.

31.

In Air Philippines Corporation vs. Pennswell Inc.,23 the Supreme Court defined “trade secret” as follows: A trade secret is defined as a plan or process, tool, mechanism or compound known only to its owner and those of his employees to whom it is necessary to confide it. The definition also extends to a secret formula or process not patented, but known only to certain individuals using it in compounding some article of trade having commercial value. A trade secret may consist of any formula, pattern, device, or compilation of information that (1) is used in one’s business; and (2) gives the employer an opportunity to obtain advantage over competitors who do not possess the information.

Generally, a trade secret is a process or device intended for continuous operation of the business, for example, a machine or formula, but can be a price list or catalogue or specialized customer list. It is indubitable that trade secrets constitute proprietary rights.

The NGCP’s January 18, 2022 statement is reproduced in full below: Power transmission operator NGCP warns of thin power supply this summer due to higher demand in the new normal, and highlights the need for policies to supporting demand side management to ensure adequate power during the upcoming presidential elections in May. The Department of Energy (DOE) forecasted a total peak demand of 12,387 MegaWatts (MW) for Luzon to occur in the last week of May, a 747MW increase from the actual 2021 peak load of 11,640MW which occurred on May 28, 2021.

32.

The protection of trade secrets was likewise recognized by this Honorable Commission in its Decision in ERC Case No. 2015- 111 RC: In the case of PNOC RC, the documents sought to be protected from disclosure contains formula and pricing structures used in arriving at their proposed tariff.

The prices cited in the documents were components of the proposed tariff. In fact, all three (3) documents were used by the Commission in evaluating the reasonableness of the proposed rate. In electric power industry [where] prices are a major consideration in selecting one’s supplier, it is apparent that the assumption used in arriving at one’s proposed tariff is considered a competitive leverage by one player against its competitors.

For Visayas, the peak demand occurred in December, mainly due to the activity brought about by the holiday season, while in Mindanao, the peak demand occurred in August.

Grid

2021 Actual Peak

2022 DOE Forecast Peak

Luzon

11,640 MW (May 28, 2021)

12,387MW

Visayas

2,252 MW (December 13, 2021)

2,528MW

Mindanao

2,144 MW (August 4, 2021)

2,223MW

Thus, the Commission resolved to treat the said documents confidential and may not be publicly disclosed.

Thin operating margins (power in excess of demand, which is used to manage and balance the grid) is forecasted in the Luzon grid from April to June due to increase in demand during the summer, which includes the critical election period.

NGCP coordinates the preparation and submission to the DOE of an annual Grid Operating and Maintenance Program (GOMP), which is the consolidated preventive maintenance schedules of power plants, considering the needed supply to meet the projected demand. The 2022 GOMP was approved by the DOE on 10 January 2022. In compliance with the directive of the DOE, no maintenance shutdowns were scheduled during the summer months.

“NGCP, in compliance with its mandate, coordinated with the generation and distribution sectors so that we could optimize and rationalize our own maintenance schedules, to ensure sufficiency, at least on paper, of power supply throughout the year,” the company said.

33.

Considering the foregoing, the Applicants hereby respectfully ask that the annexes enumerated in paragraph 26 be treated as confidential information during the pendency of this Application and any time thereafter, and that these be used solely for the purpose of evaluating this Application. The Applicants also respectfully move that these documents be the subject of a Protective Order pursuant to Rule 4. Section 2 of the Revised ERC Rules.

34.

The Applicants hereby submit one (1) copy each of the foregoing confidential documents in a sealed envelope. with the envelope and each page of the documents marked with the word “Confidential.”

PRAYER

WHEREFORE, the Applicants most respectfully pray that this Honorable Court:

However, as early as January, some generating units extended their maintenance shutdowns while others derated to decrease their committed generation output. As a result, yellow alerts were issued on 10 and 11 January. A yellow alert is issued when the excess power is insufficient to meet the transmission grid’s regulating and contingency requirement, pegged at the time at about 495MW and 647MW respectively. “On paper, there appears to be sufficient supply to meet demand; but the plan on paper, the GOMP, is not always followed. It is when there are unscheduled shutdowns and derations, and extensions of maintenance duration, that grid operations may be disrupted enough to warrant the issuance of a grid alert status,” explained NGCP. “As the transmission service provider, NGCP can only give an overview of the current supply and demand situation, and endeavor to dispatch any and all available grid resources. It cannot intervene on matters concerning power generation,” said NGCP. A red alert status is issued when supplies are insufficient to meet consumer demand and the transmission grid’s regulating requirement. Red alerts were issued over the Luzon Grid on 31 May and 01-02 June 2021 when a similar round of extended and unplanned maintenance shutdowns and derations occurred, depleting excess supplies and leading to rotational power interruptions implemented across the entire Luzon.

The continuous increase in demand due to various factors produces another level of volatility in the WESM and risk of higher prices for the end-consumer.

24.

Thus, the PSA is crucial for IFELCO as it guarantees the satisfaction of its forward power needs, without compromising the reasonableness of the generation rate to be passed on to its member-consumers.

25.

In the absence of a provisional authority, IFELCO would be exposed to the volatile WESM prices. The immediate delivery of power from SNAP-BI to IFELCO, pursuant to the PSA, will alleviate IFELCO’s power supply requirements and that of its end users.

A copy of the Judicial Affidavit executed by Romeo V. Acuesta to support the prayer of the issuance of provisional authority is attached as Annex MM. ALLEGATIONS IN SUPPORT OF THE APPLICANTS’ PRAYER FOR CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT OF INFORMATION

26.

The Applicants respectfully request that the information contained in the following documents attached to this Application be treated as confidential information pursuant to the Rule 4 of the Revised ERC Rules:

Upon initial review of the present Application and pending trial on the merits, ISSUE AN ORDER GRANTING PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY/ APPROVAL for the Applicants to implement the provisions of the PSA, including the rates therein, pending the issuance of a final decision on this Application;

(b)

After trial on the merits, ISSUE A PERMANENT APPROVAL OF THE PSA, including the generation rate and adjustment mechanisms indicated therein;

(c)

DECLARE the annexes enumerated in paragraph 26 as CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION within the purview of Rule 4 ofthe Revised ERC Rules; and

(d)

ISSUE A PROTECTIVE ORDER treating the annexes enumerated in paragraph 26 as confidential information pursuant to Rule 4, Section 2 of the Revised ERC Rules and prescribing the guidelines for the protection thereof.

Other just and equitable reliefs are likewise prayed for.

The Commission hereby sets instant Joint Application for determination of compliance with the jurisdictional requirements, expository presentation, pre-trial conference, and presentation of evidence on the following dates and online platform for the conduct thereof, pursuant to Resolution No. 09, Series of 202024 dated 24 September 2020 and Resolution No. 01, Series of 2021 dated 17 December 2020 (ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure):25

To alleviate possible power shortages, NGCP appeals to policy makers to immediately explore demand side management strategies to mitigate any possible power supply issues in the coming summer months, especially at or around the time of the presidential elections.

23.

(a)

Date

Platform

Activity

02 August 2022 (Tuesday) at two o’clock in the afternoon (2:00 P.M.)

Microsoft Teams

Determination of compliance with the jurisdictional requirements and expository presentation

09 August 2022 (Tuesday) at two o’clock in the afternoon (2:00 P.M.)

Microsoft Teams

Pre-trial Conference and presentation of evidence

Accordingly, SNAP-BI and IFELCO are hereby directed to host the virtual hearing at IFELCO’s principal office located at the Municipality of Lagawe, Province of Ifugao, as the designated venue for the conduct thereof, and ensure that the same is open to the public and the community quarantine guidelines are observed at all times. Moreover, SNAP-BI and IFELCO shall guarantee that, during the conduct of the expository presentation, the participation of the public shall not be impaired.

Any interested stakeholder may submit its comments and/or clarifications at least one (1) calendar day prior to the scheduled virtual hearing, via electronic mail (e-mail) at docket@erc.ph, copy furnish the Legal Service through legal@erc. ph. The Commission shall give priority to the stakeholders who have duly submitted their respective comments and/or clarifications, to discuss the same and propound questions during the expository presentation.

Moreover, all persons who have an interest in the subject matter of the instant case may become a party by filing with the Commission via e-mail at docket@erc. ph,copy furnish the Legal Service through legal@erc.ph, a verified Petition to Intervene at least five (5) calendar days prior to the date of the initial virtual hearing and subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure, indicating therein the docket number and title of the case and stating the following: 1)

The petitioner’s name, mailing address, and e-mail address;

2)

The nature of petitioner’s interest in the subject matter of the proceeding and the way and manner in which such interest is affected by the issues involved in the proceeding; and

3)

A statement of the relief desired.

Likewise, all other persons who may want their views known to the Commission with respect to the subject matter of the case may file through e-mail at docket@erc. ph, copy furnish the Legal Service through legal@erc.ph, their Opposition or Comment thereon at least five (5) calendar days prior to the initial virtual hearing and subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure.

No particular form of Opposition or Comment is required, but the document, letter, or writing should contain the following: 1)

The name, mailing address, and e-mail address of such person;

2)

A concise statement of the Opposition or Comment; and

3)

The grounds relied upon.

Any of the persons mentioned in the preceding paragraphs may access the copy of the Joint Application on the Commission’s official website at www.erc.gov.ph.

Finally, all interested persons may be allowed to join the scheduled initial virtual hearing by providing the Commission, thru legal.virtualhearings@erc.ph, with their respective e-mail addresses and indicating therein the case number of the instant Joint Application. The Commission will send the access link/s to the aforementioned hearing platform within five (5) working days prior to the scheduled hearing.

WITNESS, the Honorable Commissioners ALEXIS M. LUMBATAN, CATHERINE P. MACEDA, FLORESINDA G. BALDO-DIGAL, and MARKO ROMEO L. FUENTES, Energy Regulatory Commission, this 07th day of June 2022 in Pasig City.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

AGNES VST DEVANADERA Chairperson and CEO

See EPlRA, Sec. 23.

See EPlRA, Sec. 45 (b); ERC Resolution No. 21, Series of 2005 See EPlRA IRR, Rule 3, Section 4 (e) Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure of the Energy Regulatory Commission, Resolution No. 01, Series of 2021.

See Power Supply Agreement (Annex A), Clause 3.2.

See Power Supply Agreement (Annex A), Clause 3.1.

See Power Supply Agreement (Annex A), Annexes C and D. See Power Supply Agreement (Annex A), Clause 8.1.

See Power Supply Agreement (Annex A), Clause 10.1.

See Power Supply Agreement (Annex A), Clause 6.1.

See Power Supply Agreement (Annex A), Clause 9.1.

See Power Supply Agreement (Annex A), Clause 9.2.2.

See Power Supply Agreement (Annex A), Clause 9.2.3.

See Power Supply Agreement (Annex A), Clause 9.3.1.

See Power Supply Agreement (Annex A), Clause 11.2 in relation to Clause 11.1.

See Power Supply Agreement (Annex A), Clause 12.1.1.

See Power Supply Agreement (Annex A), Clause 12.1.2.

See Power Supply Agreement (Annex A), Clause 12.1.3.

See Power Supply Agreement (Annex A), Clause 12.1.4.

See ERC Res No. 11-2005, Article II, Section 3; see also Case Filing Procedures - Applications for Approval of Power Supply Contract, Section 3.

(Last accessed December 15, 2021 from http://www.erc.gov.ph/ContentPage/106).

See Revised ERC Rules, Rule 6, Section 2.

Uploaded on the NGCP website: https://www.ngcp.ph/ article?cid=16516(last accessed April15, 2022).

G. R. No. 172835,13 December 2007.

A Resolution Adopting the Guidelines Governing Electronic Applications, Filings and Virtual Hearings Before the Energy Regulatory Commission.

A Resolution Adopting the Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure of the Energy Regulatory Commission.

(MS-JULY 4 & 12, 2022)

B4 TUESDAY, JULY 12, 2022

World

DEVASTATED. Ukrainian rescuers work outside a building partially destroyed after a Russian missile strike in Kharkiv on July 11, 2022, amid Moscow’s military invasion launched on Ukraine. AFP

Macau lockdown begins, HK eyes health code app M

ACAU casino shares plunged on Monday as the Chinese city embarked on a week-long lockdown to curb its worst coronavirus outbreak while neighbouring Hong Kong said it was mulling a mainland-style health code system.

Share prices of six gaming conglomerates – Sands China, Galaxy Entertainment, SJM Holdings, Melco International, MGM China and Wynn Macau – dropped by between six to nearly nine percent on

Monday morning trade.

It is the first casino lockdown in more than two years, overriding a previous deal between the industry and the Macau government that only those found with

infections would need to close temporarily.

Macau is the only place in China where gambling is legal but the pandemic has hammered the city’s fortunes as it sticks to Beijing’s zero-COVID model.

Authorities announced a week of lockdowns starting Monday after recording more than 1,500 infections in the past three weeks despite multiple rounds of compulsory mass testing of the city’s 650,000 people.

All residents must stay home

James Webb Space telescope opens its eyes on the Universe

SYMPATHIES. A woman takes photographs of condolence messages for former Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe in front of the JapanTaiwan Exchange Association office in Taipei on July 11, 2022. Abe, Japan’s longest serving prime minister, was fatally shot during a campaign stop on July 8 in an exceedingly rare gun crime in one of the world’s safest countries. AFP

Washington hails Abe as ‘man of vision’ WASHINGTON’S top diplomat hailed assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe as a “man of vision” as he offered condolences Monday in Tokyo, where family will later hold a wake for the murdered politician.

Japan’s ruling coalition meanwhile declared victory in a sombre election held Sunday, just two days after Abe was gunned down on the campaign trail.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken made a previously unscheduled trip to Japan while on an Asia tour because, he said, “we’re friends, and when one friend is hurting, the other friend shows up.”

Abe “did more than anyone

to elevate the relationship between the United States and Japan,” Blinken added, calling him “a man of vision with the ability to realise that vision.”

He handed Prime Minister Fumio Kishida letters from US President Joe Biden for Abe’s family, who on Monday will hold a wake for the country’s longest-serving prime minister at a major Buddhist temple in Tokyo.

A hearse carrying Abe’s body arrived at Zojoji temple Monday afternoon for the private event, which top politicians and business figures are expected to attend.

A family funeral will be held at the same location on Tues-

day, with public memorials to take place at a later date.

The man accused of Abe’s murder, 41-year-old Tetsuya Yamagami, is in custody and has told police he targeted the former leader because he believed he was linked to a specific organisation that authorities have not yet named.

Japanese media reports said he blamed the group, described as a religious organization, for his family’s financial troubles because his mother made large donations to it.

The Unification Church, a global religious movement founded in Korea in the 1950s, said on Monday that Yamagami’s mother was a member. AFP

UN: World population to hit 8b this year THE world’s population is expected to reach eight billion on November 15, the UN forecast Monday in a report that said India will surpass China as the most populous country on earth in 2023.

That overall population milestone “is a reminder of our shared responsibility to care for our planet and a moment to reflect on where we still fall short of our commitments to one another,” Secretary General Antonio Guterres said, without citing specifics.

“This is an occasion to celebrate our diversity, recognize our common humanity, and marvel at advancements in health that have extended lifespans and dramatically reduced maternal and child mortality rates,” he added.

The forecast by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs said the world’s population is growing at its slowest pace since 1950.

It should hit 8.5 billion in 2030 and 9.7 billion in 2050, peaking at around 10.4 billion

people in the 2080s before steadying at that level until 2100.

While a net drop in birth rates is observed in several developing countries, more than half of the rise forecast in the world’s population in the coming decades will be concentrated in eight countries, the report said.

It said they are the Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines and Tanzania. AFP

China detains alleged bank fraud ‘gang’ after protests MEMBERS of a “criminal gang” accused of taking control of local banks have been arrested in central China after rare protests over alleged financial corruption sparked violent clashes between customers and authorities.

Hit hard by the country’s economic slowdown, four banks in

except to go shopping for daily necessities and to get tested for the virus, with rule-breakers facing up to two years in jail.

Some public services and businesses such as supermarkets and pharmacies can stay open, and only people with special permission or a low-risk health code can use public transport.

China uses mandatory health code apps to trace people’s movements and coronavirus outbreaks.

Only those with green codes can move freely. AFP

Henan province have since midApril frozen all cash withdrawals, leaving thousands of small savers without funds and sparking sporadic demonstrations.

In one of the largest such rallies yet, hundreds gathered Sunday outside a branch of the People’s Bank of China in Henan’s capi-

tal Zhengzhou demanding their money, according to multiple witnesses who declined to be named.

Protesters held banners accusing local officials and police of corruption, calling on the central government to “give severe punishment to Henan,” video footage verified by AFP showed. AFP

THE James Webb Space Telescope, the most powerful ever sent into orbit, is set Tuesday to unveil breathtaking new views of the Universe with a clarity that’s never been seen before.

Distant galaxies, bright nebulae and a faraway giant gas planet are among the observatory’s first targets, US space agency NASA said Friday.

But the images themselves have been jealously guarded to build suspense ahead of the big reveal.

“I’m looking very much forward to not having to keep these secrets anymore, that will be a great relief,” Klaus Pontoppidan, an astronomer at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STSI) that oversees Webb, told AFP. NASA chief Bill Nelson has promised the “deepest image of our Universe that has ever been taken.”

Webb’s infrared capabilities are what make it uniquely powerful – allowing it to both pierce through cosmic dust clouds and detect light from the earliest stars, which has been stretched into infrared wavelengths as the Universe expanded.

This lets it peer further back in time than any previous telescope, to the period shortly after the Big Bang, 13.8 billion years ago. AFP

Kiribati quits key Pacific island bloc KIRIBATI has quit the premier bloc of Pacific island nations, fracturing the group just as its leaders launch a summit to grapple with rising seas and China’s security ambitions in the region.

The central Pacific nation of 120,000 people said it had taken “the sovereign decision” to withdraw from the 51-yearold, Fiji-based Pacific Islands Forum “with immediate effect.”

In a July 9 letter obtained by AFP, Kiribati President Taneti Maamau cited the forum’s failure to honour a “gentlemen’s agreement” to appoint a Micronesian candidate to head the secretariat.

The spat had led to a threat by Micronesian countries to leave the bloc but it was patched up with a deal last month to rotate the top job, set to be discussed at this week’s summit.

The Kiribati leader cited his country’s national day celebrations on July 12 as another reason for not attending the summit.

Leaders from more than a dozen forum nations are meeting in Fiji’s capital Suva from July 12-14 – the first such in-person summit since the COVID-19 pandemic began almost three years ago. AFP

Business 8990 Holdings postpones plan to sell P26.6-b worth of shares

By Jenniffer B. Austria MASS housing developer 8990 Holdings Inc. has deferred plans to conduct a P26.6-billion share sale due to current market volatility.

8990 Holdings said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Monday it submitted a notice of withdrawal with Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on the planned sale of 1.25 billion in common shares with an over allotment of up to 250 million shares to be sold at a price of up to P18.99 apiece.

The company said it is “very challenging” to conduct a share sale because of the current market volatility and the economic uncertainties amid the pandemic and increasing inflationary pressures.

The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange Index stood at 7,252.64 when the company filed its registration statement with the SEC to conduct the share sale. The index since dropped significantly to 6,361.82 on Friday.

The company’s share price also fell from its 52-week high of P14 in February to P10.30 on Friday.

“The company and selling shareholders are continuing to seek guidance from their financial advisors in relation to when circumstances are more favorable to re-file the Registration Statement,” the housing developer said.

The planned share sale was supposed to be an exit mechanism for 8990 Holdings’ cornerstone investors—TPG Rafter Holdings Ltd. and Pasir Salak Investments Limited.

TPG Rafter and Pasir Salak have been investors of 8990 Holdings since 2004 when the mass housing developer conducted a follow on-offering.

TPG Rafter is one of the world’s largest private equity firms while Pasir Salak is a special purpose vehicle of Malaysia’s state investor Khazanah Nasional Berhad. They own 8.61 percent each in 8990 Holdings.

8990 Holdings said TPG and Pasik Salak would continue to support and remain shareholders until such time the market conditions improve.

PSE INDEX CLOSING Monday, July 11, 2022

26.82 PTS.

Ray S. Eñano, Editor Roderick T. dela Cruz, Assistant Editor business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com TUESDAY, JULY 12, 2022

N

ET inflows of foreign direct investments climbed 48.3 percent in April to $989 million from $667 million a year ago on the sustained confidence of investors in the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals, latest data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas show.

The BSP said in a statement Monday the positive development brought the FDI net inflows in the first four months to $3.4 billion, up 12.1 percent from $3.1 billion registered in the same period last year.

“Cumulative FDI net inflows rose due mainly to the increase in non-residents’ net investments in debt instruments.

Meanwhile, net equity placements [other than reinvestment of earnings] declined during the period,” the BSP said.

Data showed FDI net inflows increased in April following the positive performance of all components, led by non-residents’ net investments in debt instruments.

Equity capital placements also expanded, boosted by inflows from Malaysia, the United States and Japan.

These were channeled primarily to the construction; real estate; professional, scientific and technical; and manufacturing industries.

Net inflows of foreign direct investments reached a record $10.5 billion in 2021, breaching the previous high of $10.3 billion in 2017.

The 2021 level represented a 54.2-percent increase from the $6.8 billion net inflow recorded in 2020. It also surpassed the $8-billion net inflow target set by the BSP. The BSP statistics on FDIs are compiled based on the balance of payments and international investment position manual, 6th Edition.

FDIs include investment by a non-resident direct investor in a resident enter-

CLIMATE and energy group Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) called for the immediate appointment of the Energy Regulatory Commission chairperson amid the prolonged shutdown of power plants and the thinning of Malampaya gas reserves that have led to high electricity prices.

ICSC also welcomed the appointment of former Energy Secretary Raphael Perpetuo Lotilla replacing former Secretary Alfonso Cusi.

ICSC senior policy advisor Pete Maniego Jr. said Lotilla’s appointment is a good choice since he is competent to

UNCHANGED

45

C1

prise, whose equity capital in the latter is at least 10 percent and investment made by a non-resident subsidiary/associate in its resident direct investor. FDIs can be in the form of equity capital, reinvestment of earnings and borrowings.

The BSP expects FDI net inflows to reach $11 billion this year, supporting the balance of payments amid the rising outflows due to higher prices of key imported commodities. The price of Dubai crude oil is expected to remain elevated at $70 to $90 per barrel from 2024 to 2028 as oil supply is expected to catch up and stabilize over the medium-term.

The Development Budget Coordination Committee expects imports to rise 8 percent annually from 2024 to 2028, faster than the 6-percent expected rise of exports from 2023 to 2028. The DBCC, which is composed of economic managers, see the peso stabilizing at 51 to 55 against the US dollar from 2023 to 2028 due to heightened global uncertainty such as the aggressive monetary policy tightening by the US Federal Reserve, market aversion amid Russia-Ukraine conflict and increased global oil prices.

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

55.9710

Japan

Yen

0.007346

0.4112

UK

Pound

1.203700

67.3723

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.127411

7.1313

Switzerland

Franc

1.024066

57.3180

Canada

Dollar

0.772678

43.2476

Singapore

Dollar

0.715256

40.0336

Australia

Dollar

0.685300

38.3569

Bahrain

Dinar

2.653083

148.4957

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266404

14.9109

Brunei

Dollar

0.712708

39.8910

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000067

0.0038

Thailand

Baht

0.027782

1.5550

UAE

Dirham

0.272264

15.2389

Euro

Euro

1.018400

57.0009

Korea

Won

0.000773

0.0433

China

Yuan

0.149365

8.3601

India

Rupee

0.012617

0.7062

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.225989

12.6488

New Zealand

Dollar

0.618700

34.6293

Taiwan

Dollar

0.033602

1.8807 Source: BSP

IN BRIEF

Emperador readies Singapore listing EMPERADOR Inc., a global liquor maker and distributor, will list its shares on Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited on July 14, 2022.

Emperador president and chief executive Winston Co said in a statement Monday the secondary listing of Emperador on the SGX is a “key milestone” in the development of its business as a leading international brandy and whisky company, and reflects the global reach and strength of its world-class portfolio of brands.

“This will expand opportunities for participation by investors in Singapore and beyond as we continue to invest in our ambitious international expansion,” he added.

Emperador expects conditions set out in the eligibility-to-list letter (ETL) from the SGXST to be satisfied and its shares to be listed and start trading on Thursday on the Main Board of SGX-ST under the stock code “EMI.” The outstanding ETL conditions include, among others, the release of an SGXNET announcement disclosing the latest share price of the company on the Philippine Stock Exchange and the Singapore dollar equivalent prior to the listing of the company on SGX-ST. Jenniffer B. Austria

Bank of Commerce starts P3-b bond sale

AGRI LEARNING SITE. Silent Integrated Farm in Barangay Dagatan, Liliw, Laguna is now officially a learning site of the Agricultural Training Institute. Leading the unveiling of the signage are (from left) ATI-Calabarzon regional director Dr. Rolando Manigas, ATI partnership and accreditation division senior agriculturist Nemielynn Pangilinan, Liliw Mayor Ide Monleon, Nagcarlan Mayor Elmor Vita, Joy Dator and farm administration manager Charles Espinosa. Roy Tomandao

lead the industry.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has not announced the appointment of a new ERC chairperson to replace Agnes Devanadera, who recently retired.

“The appointment of an Energy Secretary is very urgent due to the many serious problems facing the sector. There is insufficient power supply mainly due to the prolonged shutdowns of several coal-fired power plants, the intermittent breakdowns of several coal-fired power plants, and the derating of natural gas power plants caused by Malampaya gas supply restrictions,” said ICSC senior policy advisor Pete Maniego Jr. prior to the announcement

Alternatives to offer many poor nations better chance to end smoking problem THE regulation of smoke-free products such as vapes, snus, nicotine pouches and heated tobacco products provide countries the best opportunity to address the smoking problem, public health and consumer advocates said in the recently-concluded Global Forum on Nicotine 2022.

Misinformation and restrictive policies such as bans and higher taxes on these smoke-free products, however, are preventing many low and middleincome countries from helping adults smokers, they said in a panel discussion during the GFN 2022 held in Warsaw, Poland.

Federico Fernández, executive director of Argentina-based Somos Innovación, said vaping and other alternatives are giving humanity the best chance to end the problem of smoking.

Unfortunately, existing regulations are more stringent on these smoke-free products than combustible cigarettes which they are supposed to replace.

“Safer alternatives could play a central role in decreasing morbidity and mortality associated with tobacco

775,458,375 40,322 3,749,284,605.10 82 101

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • MONDAY, JULY 11, 2022

Environment group calling for immediate appointment of ERC chief

By Alena Mae S. Flores

TOTAL VALUE (IN PHP) ADVANCES DECLINES

F OREIGN E XCHANGE R ATE

Foreign direct investments surged to $3.4b in 4 months

By Julito G. Rada

6,388.64

TOTAL VOLUME TOTAL TRADES

product usage,” said Dr. Rachel Murkett, project director of life sciences consulting firm Biochromex in a separate discussion.

Participants in GFN 2022 blamed influential anti-vaping groups for spreading misinformation about nicotine and smoke-free products. Dr. Roberto Sussman of the National University of Mexico said that, “anti-vaping sources such as the World Health Organization, academics, regulators, anti-tobacco NGOs, groups funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies act as merchants of doubt when citing and quoting flawed studies to cast unjustified doubt and confusion on the safety of vaping”.

Some groups in the Philippines, for example, continue to call for the ban on smoke-free alternatives, which are found by science to be less harmful than cigarettes.

Tobacco harm reduction, a public health approach that involves the use of less harmful nicotine products compared to combustible cigarettes, is expected help LMICs address the smoking epidemic that kills 8 million people annually, GFN participants said.

Maniego said prices at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) rose because of the chronic power shortage, prompting the imposition of a secondary price cap to arrest the spikes.

He cited WESM’s average price of P9.66 per kWh in the Luzon grid on June 30 and high peak price of P29.10 per kWh. Maniego said fossil fuel prices were expected to spiral due to the RussianUkraine conflict.

“This would continue to increase electricity rates until the conflict, and the resulting energy shortage are over. The DOE and ERC would need firm hands to cope with the current crises,” Maniego said.

He said the next DOE secretary and

ERC chairperson should be highly knowledgeable about the energy sector, preferably with relevant technical, engineering and economics background.

He also cited a prohibition in the DOE Act against the appointment of anybody who had worked in the energy sector within the past two years as DOE secretary.

“However, there must be many qualified persons who have either retired or moved to a non-energy company for more than two years,” the ICSC official said.

Maniego said the ERC chairperson must be a member of the Philippine bar as required byElectric Power Industry Reform Act of 200.

BANK of Commerce, a unit of conglomerate San Miguel Corp., started on Monday its P3-billion maiden bond offering to fund general corporate activities .

The bank said in a disclosure to the stock exchange it would issue the bonds from its P20-billion bonds program. The Series A Bonds have a tenor of two years and a fixed interest rate of 5.0263 percent per annum.

The public offering period willrun from July 11 to July 22, 2022 but may be shortened by the issuer. The Series A Bonds will be issued and listed on Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. (PDEX) on July 29, 2022.

“Proceeds from the bonds shall be used in managing the bank’s net interest margin by matching long-term assets with longterm funding to reduce the bank’s interest rate risk; diversifying funding sources; and general corporate purposes,” the bank said.

The bank tapped ING Bank N.V. Manila branch and Philippine Commercial Capital Inc. as joint lead arrangers and joint bookrunners of the issue. Bank of Commerce is also acting as a selling agent, along with ING and PCCI. Julito G. Rada

3 health platforms merged into one app THE country’s three health platforms will be consolidated into a one-stop health super app to provide accessible healthcare to Filipinos, Globe Telecom Inc. said Monday.

Globe Capital Venture Holdings Inc. (917Ventures), the corporate venture builder of the Globe Group, Ayala Healthcare Holdings Inc. (AC Health), the healthcare portfolio arm of the Ayala Group, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Vigos Ventures Inc., and Salud Interactiva S.A. DE C.V. have agreed to the reorganization of Global Telehealth Inc. (KonsultaMD), HealthNow, Inc. (HealthNow) and APPPPS Partners Inc. (AIDE) to combine their respective applications in one superapp. Altogether, the companies have a user base of over 2 million.

“By combining the strengths of each of the three entities, I am excited to see the new KonsultaMD support AC Health’s vision of an integrated healthcare ecosystem,’’ said AC Health president and chief executive Paolo Borromeo. Darwin G. Amojelar

Fitch Solutions sees PH registering wider account deficit this year Fitch Solutions, a unit of the Fitch Group, revised its forecast for the 2022 Philippine current account deficit as a share of the gross domestic product to a wider 4.3 percent from the previous estimate of 2.4 percent as imports growth continues to outpace exports.

“The Philippines will see its current account deficit widen sharply in 2022 on the back of elevated food and energy prices. We at Fitch Solutions now forecast the current account deficit to come in at 4.3 percent of GDP in 2022, revised from 2.4 percent previously and significantly larger than the 1.8 percent shortfall seen in 2021,” Fitch Solutions said in a report Monday.

“We have already seen signs of a significantly wider current account shortfall in the first-quarter data, which showed that the deficit widened to 5.0 percent of GDP, from 3.5 percent in the fourth quarter of 2021. Over the coming quarters, we expect that elevated energy and other commodity prices will keep imports elevated, while export growth will likely slow due to global economic headwinds,” it said.

It said the wider current account shortfall, combined with tighter glob-

al financing conditions, would likely weigh on the Philippine peso which breached the 56-per-dollar level recently. The peso closed at 55.979 against the greenback Monday.

“The Philippines’s terms of trade has continued to worsen over the past few

quarters. Given that commodity prices is likely to remain relatively elevated, we expect import growth to continue outpacing exports in the remaining half of the year and forecast good trade deficit to widen to 17.1 percent as a share of GDP in 2022,” it said. Julito G. Rada

SECURITY BANK SCHOLARS. Security Bank Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of Security Bank Corp., grants technical vocational scholarships to 16 scholars in partnership with Don Bosco Academy Pampanga and the bank’s industrial clients, Motech Automotive Educational Center Inc. and Sambon P&E Philippines Inc. Under the partnership, Don Bosco Academy will shoulder the tuition cost for the 10-month in-center training of scholars to equip them with the necessary technical skills before immersing them in the real world. To support the scholars on their five-month on-the-job training, Security Bank Foundation will provide monthly transportation allowance to scholars while Motech and Sambon will augment the support through additional allowances.

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Sports

TUESDAY, JULY 12, 2022

Game vs. Thailand a test of character for Filipinas biggest threats in the Filipinas’ bid to sweep their five-game assignment.

Last Sunday, Somnong was one of the scorers as the Thais beat Malaysia, 4-0, and secured the second semifinal berth with their 3-1-0 win-draw-loss record.

The top semis slot is now in the hands of the Filipinas following their 4-0 triumph over Malaysia last Friday, turning their encounter with Indonesia into a tuneup match on Sunday.

Their game with the Thais will allow coach Allen Stajcic to know more about the character of the team.

“For us to remain calm and composed, showing resilience is an important sign for us as a team,” said Stajcic after the Filipinas turned back Indonesia, 4-1.

Stajcic said Sarina Bolden may have

By Peter Atencio

I

T WILL be a test of character for the Philippine national women’s football team when it meets Thailand tonight in their last elimination game in Group A of the 2022 ASEAN Football Federation Women’s Championship at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.

With four straight wins, the Filipinas have already secured the top semifinal berth at stake in Group A in their previous matches and the showdown with the Thais will see how well they can hold out against a good squad.

The Thais will be led by Ploychompoo

Somnonk, who was one of their lethal scorers as she led them to the finals and a silver-medal finish in the 31st Southeast Asian Games two months ago.

Somnong, along with two other Thai scorers Alisa Rukpinij and Tipkrita Onsamai, is expected to be among the

GAMES TODAY

(Rizal Memorial Stadium) 7 p.m. – Thailand vs. Philippines (Binan Football Stadium) 7 p.m. – Indonesia vs. Singapore (Imus Stadium) 7 p.m. – Australia vs. Malaysia

scored a lot against Indonesia. But she won’t be doing things alone next time.

“In 3 or 4 matches, we had different scorers for every goal. I don’t go home and count who scored the goals.

It doesn’t matter to me,” stated Stajcic.

After the Filipinas are done with their game with the Thais, they will next clash with the runner-up finisher of Group B. Myanmar and Vietnam are unbeaten after two games in Group B, with simi-

lar 2-0-0 records.

And their last two encounters will determine their places in the semifinal stage.

Meanwhile, the 26-year-old Bolden said she’s eager to do more scoring for the Filipinas, with the support of her teammates.

“I couldn’t do it alone. Those were great balls that were played into me. Like what coach has been preaching: composure, composure,” said Bolden following her hat-trick in their game with Indonesia.

This will be the second time for Bolden to claim a hat trick for the nationals.

“I could have had two more, five, six, seven, but you know I’m happy with the ones I did finish and I’m just hungry for the ones I missed,” added Bolden, who plays for Chifure AS Elfen Saitama in the WE League in Japan.

Djokovic: Seeking love alongside immortality LONDON—Novak Djokovic is already a sporting immortal but he will be desperately hoping he is finally becoming a “people’s champion” after winning a seventh Wimbledon crown on Sunday.

The Serb has long been seeking the missing ingredient to make him an equal of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in the hearts of tennis fans.

His four-set victory over unseeded Nick Kyrgios nudges him ahead of Federer into second place in the all-time list of Grand Slam men’s winners with 21 titles, one behind Nadal.

Djokovic nibbled a blade of grass in his customary celebration before making his “cup of love” gesture to all corners of the Centre Court, who roared their approval for the champion.

While Federer and Nadal enjoy an almost god-like status in the game, the Serb has been a player that fans have found more difficult to love.

Many had already picked either the Swiss or the Spaniard as “their man” by the time Djokovic won his first major in 2008, leaving him in a position as the awkward interloper.

The Serb, who left Belgrade when he was 12 to train in Munich and escape NATO’s bombardment of his home city, is a spikier character than the smooth, unruffled Federer or the self-effacing Nadal.

Fiery character His infamous default from the US Open in 2020 for petulantly swiping at

a ball that hit a female line judge gave a glimpse of his fiery character.

And some of his personal beliefs have drawn criticism—including his refusal to have the coronavirus vaccine, a decision that cost him a place in this year’s Australian Open.

One claim that raised eyebrows was his belief that it was possible to alter the composition of water and food through positive thinking.

Djokovic—so used to battling the crowd along with his opponent—appeared to have turned a corner at last year’s US Open final, which he lost to Daniil Medvedev.

He received heartfelt support from fans urging him to fight back against Medvedev but it was ultimately in vain as he missed his chance to become the first man to win a calendar Grand Slam since Rod Laver in 1969.

“The amount of support and energy and love I got from the crowd was something I’ll remember forever,” he said, giving an indication of how much it means to him.

Time appears to be on the side of the Serb in his quest to be considered the greatest player of all time and to further win over the fans.

Federer, approaching his 41st birthday, has been out of action for a year after a knee operation while Nadal, 36, pulled out before his semi-final at Wimbledon with an abdominal injury.

Djokovic, just a year younger than Nadal, shows no sign of losing his

A combination of photographs shows Serbia’s Novak Djokovic holding up the Wimbledon Championships trophy after winning his seventh men’s singles titles at The All England Tennis Club in Wimbledon, southwest London. He also won in 2011 (top L), 2014 (down L), 2015 (top 2nd L), 2018 (down 2nd L), 2019 (top 2nd R), 2021 (down 2nd R). AFP

physical edge—if anything, he appears to be getting better with age.

But he appears likely to be kicking his heels when the US Open starts next month at Flushing Meadows.

Under current US law, he would not be allowed to travel to play as he has not been vaccinated against Covid.

It is also unclear whether he will be able to travel to Melbourne to play in the Australian Open in January after his deportation earlier this year following a row over his vaccination status.

Tough challenge awaits PH five A TOUGH and challenging time awaits the Gilas Pilipinas national men’s basketball team.

Head coach Chot Reyes said this as he and members of Team Philippines left Monday for the the 2022 FIBA Asia Cup in Jakarta, Indonesia.

“There’s huge task ahead of us.

We’re going to play a tough group,” said Reyes after the TNT Tropang repulsed the Ginebra Gin Kings in their final elimination-round game in the 2022 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup. The Philippines, which is ranked no. 34 in the world, is in Group D with New Zealand, India and Lebanon.

Lebanon may be no. 54 in the FIBA rankings, but they’re new generation of players is creating a buzz in their bracket.

These batch of Lebanese cagers were the first team to earn Asia Cup qualification after winning their first four games of the qualifiers and they stayed undefeated.

They will be bannered by young stars like Wael Arakji, a 6’4” point guard, who is emerging as a star and leader of the squad. He shows the way with his average of 19.0 points.

The presence of Arakji is one of the reasons why Reyes has praised Lebanon.

“Their team is really stacked. They are playing a high level of basketball,” added Reyes.

Two other up-and-coming players, Karim Zeinoun and Segio El Darwich, are also among the players to watch out for, with Lebanon.

New Zealand is expected to be a more challenging foe as it is ranked no.

27 in the world.

Veterans Kiefer Ravena and his his younger brother Thirdy will lead Gilas, along with the returning Bobby Ray Parks, RJ Abarrientos, SJ Belangel, William Navarro and Carl Tamayo. Peter Atencio

Djokovic, who has spent a record number of weeks as world number one, is already assured of his place in tennis history.

To add lustre to his achievements, he has winning records over both Federer and Nadal—27-23 over the Swiss and 3029 over the Spaniard.

Djokovic captured the first of his majors at the Australian Open in 2008 but it was three years before he added his second.

He dropped gluten from his diet and his lithe physique allowed him to chase down lost causes, transforming him into the rubber man of tennis with

a rock-steady defence.

In 2011 he enjoyed a spectacular year, winning three of three Slams and becoming world number one for the first time.

Since then he has won at least one Grand Slam each year since apart from in 2017.

Djokovic married long-time girlfriend Jelena Ristic in July 2014 and they have two children, a son, Stefan, and daughter, Tara.

Father and son have been pictured playing together at Wimbledon this year but while the seven-year-old might be a future star Djokovic senior is far from finished. AFP

Rally behind Gilas PH at ‘22 FIBA Asia Cup via Smart’s GigaPlay App

Carl Tamayo joins Gilas in Indpnesia for FIBA ASIA CUP 2022.

MATEO Rivas and Mica Emana fashioned out a pair of straight-set wins in 16-and-under play as they anchored the Quezon City bets’ surge in the PPS-PEPP Mayor Arlene Arcillas national age-group tennis tournament at the Sta. Rosa sports complex in Laguna over the weekend.

Rivas, ranked seventh in a full-packed 64-player boys’ draw, dished out top form in posting a string of lopsided wins following an opening round bye, romping past Jonas Marquez, Samuel Davila and Jaime Reyes before shocking top seed John Bona, 7-5, 6-1, in the semis of the Group 2 tournament marked by a series of reversals.

Ranged against an equally determined Andre Coladilla from Biñan, Rivas survived another first set scare then re-asserted his might in the next to hack out a 7-5, 6-2 decision and clinch the crown in the week-long event presented by Dunlop which drew a record cast of over 300 entries.

The sixth seeded Emana likewise flashed awesome form, upending top

SUPPORT the men’s national basketball team as they play for f lag and country in the FIBA Asia Cup group stage to be held in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Gilas will take on Lebanon on July 13 at 9 p.m., India on July 15 at 4 p.m., and New Zealand on July 17 at 9 p.m.

Smart will broadcast these and more in real-time from July 12 to 24, enabling basketball fans with even more opportunities to rally behind Gilas should the team advance to the next rounds.

Gilas enters the FIBA Asia Cup following a dominant performance in the Asia Cup qualifiers last June 2021, in which they swept their group 3-0, beating teams such as Korea and India.

“In a basketball-crazed country such as the Philippines, Smart, through the GigaPlay app, continues to enable the whole nation in supporting the national team and witnessing their

FIBA Asia journey and their bid for gold. All the Gilas hardcourt action is within reach by every Filipino fan on the GigaPlay App, powered by Smart’s fastest mobile network,” said Francis E. Flores, Head of Consumer Business Group – Individual at Smart.

Smart’s coverage of the 2022 FIBA Asia Cup adds to GigaPlay App’s lineup of topnotch sports content, which includes the streaming of the UAAP, NBA, PBA, PVL, and VNL games.

GigaPlay is powered by Smart, which dominated the latest Opensignal Mobile Network Experience Report in 11 out of a possible 16 categories covering the essential aspects of service, including speed, coverage, and experience.

For more information on exclusive events, as well as offers and products, follow Smart on its official accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Rivas, Emana rule PPS Sta. Rosa tourney

Mateo Rivas (second from left) and Mica Emana pose with Calabarzon UTP OIC Jonathan Bernardo (left) and Romeo Adato, executive assistant, sports office of the city mayor, after fueling a spate of reversals in the PPS-PEPP Sta. Rosa leg.

seed Jane Diaz, 4-0, 4-1, in the second round then routing No. 2 Kimi Brodeth, 6-3, 6-0, in the finals to share top honors with Rivas in the event put up

by Palawan Pawnshop president/CEO

Bobby Castro as part of the company’s commitment to boost local junior tennis and at the same time discover talents from the countryside.

Other winners Julio Naredo and Kay

Ann Emana, also from QC, Nueva Ecija’s Lexious Cruz, Exequiel Jucutan from La Union, top seed Adriana Lanza from Pasig, and Daviane Gauran from faraway Negros Oriental.

The top-seeded Naredo trampled Aljhon Rombawa, 6-1, 6-1, for the boys’ 12-U trophy; Kay Ann Emana foiled younger sister Mica’s bid for a double crown with a 6-0, 6-4 victory in 18-U finals; Cruz repelled top seed France Dilao, 7-5, 6-1, for the boys’ 14-U title; Jucutan hacked out backto-back three-set wins, the last against top ranked Marc Jarata, 6-7(2), 6-4, 102, for the boys’ 18-U diadem; Lanza held off No. 2 Maristella Torrecampo, 6-2, 4-6, 11-9, for the girls’ 12-U title; and the second seeded Gauran frustrated No. 1 Jane Diaz, 7-5, 6-3, for the girls’ 14-U championship in the event supported

by ProtekTODO, PalawanPay, the Unified Tennis Philippines and UTR (Universal Tennis Rating).

Entertainment Chris Hemsworth in the popular scene in ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’

Nickie Wang,, Editor Patricia Taculao, Editorial Assistant E-mail: lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com TUESDAY, JULY 12, 2022

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‘Thor’ comedic follow-up hammers competition at the tills MARVEL’S latest superhero installment Thor: Love and Thunder enjoyed a summer blockbuster debut, hammering competition to top this weekend’s North American box office with an estimated $143 million haul, industry w a t c h e r Exhibitor Relations reported Sunday.

“This is another excellent Marvel opening for a series that started in 2011 and has grown with each episode,” said analyst David A. Gross of Franchise Entertainment Research, adding that the film nearly doubled the average take for a 4th episode superhero movie.

The comedic follow-up to 2017’s Thor: Ragnarok stars a muscle-clad, self-parodying Chris Hemsworth as the space viking who wields the mallet Mjolnir, but also finds himself pining for his ex-girlfriend Jane Foster (Natalie Portman), whose help he enlists to battle god butcher Gorr

(Christian Bale).

Thor easily beat out Minions: The Rise of Gru, which slipped to second spot after a phenomenal opening weekend over the July 4th holiday.

The latest goofy installment in Universal’s animated Despicable Me franchise about the reformed supervillain Gru and his yellow Minions took in $45.5 million in the Friday-toSunday period.

Holding steady in third was Paramount’s Top Gun: Maverick, the crowd-pleasing sequel to the original 1986 film that once again features Tom Cruise as cocky US Navy test

pilot Pete “Maverick” Mitchell.

The fighter ace feature, in its seventh week in theaters, has now grossed more than $597 million worldwide.

Baz Luhrmann’s music biopic Elvis – starring Austin Butler as the King alongside Tom Hanks as his exploitative manager, Colonel Tom Parker – slipped one spot to fourth in the Warner Bros film’s third weekend of release, at $11 million.

Rounding out the top five was Jurassic World: Dominion, Universal’s sixth installment in the Jurassic Park franchise, at $8.4 million. AFP

Paul Salas finds passion in new television project SINCE he transferred to the Kapuso lot, Paul Salas has since done a number of good projects like the top-raters Descendants of the Sun and The Lost Recipe.

Now, he is part of the ambitious primetime offering Lolong and is very happy with this development.

“Actually, this is the type of project which I really wanted to do: action! It doesn’t matter whether it’s on the big or small screen. It’s really a dream come true for me,” he says.

At first, the appealing lad admitted that he was still feeling his way in, which is quite understandable since it was his first time to do action.

“But I just enjoyed every moment of it. I just put my trust on the production team, especially our director Rommel Penesa. They also laid their trust in me that I can do it and I guess I was able to deliver. I feel that I was able to push myself to give my best. Compared to my other shows, it’s in here where I get to mix my character with my real self.

Really, this project is very memorable for me!”

Paul has high praises for the show’s protagonist Ruru Madrid whom he wanted to thank for all the support he extended to him in Lolong.

“I’m proud of Ru because he is a good leader. It’s because of him why the cast members are close. He is also the reason why all of us want to give our best. He worked so hard for his role, especially the physical demands.

We are the ones who feel tired for him. Of course, seeing him, we also want to equal his dedication and hard work,” he states.

In Lolong, he shares the screen with veteran acting stalwarts Christopher de Leon and Jean Garcia.

How was the experience?

“I felt afraid at first doing scenes with them, especially Tito Bo. When he’s already in character, I feel nervous. I really felt the pressure.

“It’s good that Mikoy (Morales) is there to give me the needed support. In my heavy scenes with Tito Bo and Ms. Jean, he would tell me to breathe and relax. It’s really a huge honor to be part of this show,” ends Paul.

••• After the successful run of Prima

Donnas 2 that wrapped up last May, Katrina Halili decided to return to Palawan especially since her contract renewal with GMA is not clear yet. At least, she could spend more quality time with her daughter Katie.

But this proved to be short-lived as she is scheduled to join the upcoming Kapuso series Unica Hija to be topbilled by Kate Valdez and Kelvin Miranda.

Although she hasn’t heard anything concrete yet about her contract renewal considering that it will expire by October, it’s still a good development for Kat’s career. The show is her second series this year.

In the show, the alluring actress will collaborate with Mark Herras and Boboy Garovillo who both came from successful programs as well namely, Artikulo 24/7 and First Lady, respectively.

Click pioneers Biboy Ramirez and Maybeline dela Cruz are also set to make their soap opera comeback through this project. They haven’t been seen regularly on TV the past years.

Faith de Silva, Maricar de Mesa, Jemwell Ventenilla, Athena Madrid, Jennie Gabriel, and Bernard Palanca round up the supporting cast.

IN CHARACTER.

Paul Salas in the newest GMA series ‘Lolong’

Judy Ann Santos explains pause in making cooking videos

By Marron Joshua F. Mendoza ACTRESS Judy Ann Santos explained last week why she took a break from making cooking videos for her YouTube channel, “Judy Ann’s Kitchen.”

In an appearance on ABS-CBN’s Magandang Buhay, Santos clarified that the break is not due to her busy schedule but rather due to the increasing prices of goods, claiming that it would be unfair for those who cannot afford to buy ingredients for her recipes.

“Hindi naman sobrang busy. Ang hirap kasing mag-isip ng mga episodes especially kung ang pagtaas ng presyo ng bilihin ay napakalala. Ayokong hindi maka-relate ‘yung viewers sa kung anumang lutuin ang gagawin ko kasi parang napaka-unfair naman,” she said to her co-host Melai Cantiveros as she makes her signature

tinapa rolls in the show.

“Gumagawa ako ng episode ng Judy Ann’s Kitchen ‘pag nabuo ko ‘yung sarili ko, ‘yung gusto ko siya, inspired ako kasi outlet ko ang Judy Ann’s Kitchen. Ayoko siyang tratuhing trabaho. ‘Pag trinato ko siyang trabaho, mawawala na ‘yung genuine authenticity,” she added.

Santos, whose Judy Ann’s Kitchen YouTube channel has 1.69 million subscribers and is considered one of the country’s most popular cooking vloggers, is currently a guest co-host of Magandang Buhay with Cantiveros and Jolina Magdangal.

On the other hand, as prices for food and fuel continue to rise, inflation in the country increased by 6.1 percent in June, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the highest since October 2018.

Judy Ann treats her cooking show as an outlet instead of a job, making it more specialto her

Lino Cayetano returns to showbiz after serving a three-year term as Taguig mayor

Former Taguig Mayor Lino Cayetano (center) believes he left the city in a good place and is now transitioning to entertainment

Lino Cayetano’s (leftmost) next project includes the team-up of Ian Veneracion and Heaven Peralejo (second from left and center, respectively)

Exciting things to come Former Taguig Mayor Lino Cayetano returns to show business

A

FTER serving a three-year term as mayor of one most progressive cities in the country, film and television director Lino Cayetano is going back to his showbiz roots by making a comeback in producing, directing, and creating content.

The 44-year-old former Taguig City mayor was all smiles when he recently met with showbiz press to make the official announcement. Arriving at the venue in a casual shirt, Cayetano immediately greeted everyone the usual way he acknowledged scribes when he was still in government.

“It’s so nice to see everybody again,” Cayetano beamed and immediately accommodated questions even before he could settle on his table.

“Entertainment is just as influential as politics. Our industry is unique and has the power to shape thoughts and opinion, bring important issues forward, ask questions, challenge, and provoke popular opinion,” was his answer as to why he had decided to make a showbiz comeback instead of running for another term as mayor in Taguig.

“Yung hinawakan naman natin ay isa sa pinakamalaking lungsod sa buong Pilipinas at hindi naman tayo napahiya pagdating sa pagpapatakbo, having kept the people safe throughout the pandemic.

And I think that experience that I learned there being a chief executive for three years, gusto ko namang dalhin dito sa industriyang mahal na mahal natin,” Cayetano explained.

The film director believes that he has left Taguig on the right track and he’s

happy to transition from politics into entertainment.

“Sa isang banda, minsan hindi nagkakalayo yung intensyon natin sa pulitika at sa showbiz.

Parang magkaiba lang pero ang totoo, ang laki ng responsibilidad natin makapagkwento, makapagbahagi, makapag hulma ng pagiisip,” he added.

Cayetano sees an entertainment industry revolution. And he wanted to be part of it while it’s in its early stage.

“It has already started, we are in the most exciting part, the return to glory of Filipino filmmaking and entertainment. I think nasa verge yung Philippine cinema, the Philippine entertainment industry of something very big. Hindi lang ho ito mangyayari sa isang araw, sa isang buwan, but this has been ongoing in the last few years. And I think in the next three or five years, talagang mag-eexplode sa international scene yung Filipino cinema,” he enthused.

As a director for more than 15 years, Cayetano started his career with StarStruck on GMA Network that produced Jennylyn Mercado, Cristine Reyes, Nadine Samonte, Yasmin Kurdi, and Mark Herras.

“And I would like to do a project with them. They’re like my children and seeing them still thriving in showbiz somehow makes me feel very proud,” he said.

Cayetano also directed ABSCBN’s Little Big Star, a reality singing competition thatl aunched Sam Concepcion and Jake Zyrus then

Charice Pempengco. He also directed Growing Up, the first pairing of Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padila. As well as Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson’s first solo film, I’ve Fallen For You, produced

by Star Cinema. He has also done several ABS-CBN telenovelas such as Calla Lily, Noah, and Mga Anghel na Walang Langit.

From directing, Cayetano started producing content in 2017 with the series Bagman together with writer-directors Shugo Praico and Philip King under Rein Entertainment. Its lead star, Arjo Atayde, for his role in the series, became the first Filipino to win the Best Actor award at the prestigious Asian Academy Creative Awards in 2020.

Since its establishment, Rein Entertainment has produced a number of series and films streaming on several OTT platforms This year, Rein Entertainment has several projects in the pipeline. It is partnering with different investors to produce more movies and series and plans to work closely with industry leaders and established networks for coproduction and collaboration.

“It’s going to be an exciting year for us,” Cayetano ended noting that his next project is the team-up of Ian Veneracion and Heaven Peralejo.

Lino Cayetano sees a revolution in the entertainment industry and wants to be a part of it as early as possible

More heart-racing scenes await viewers in ‘Love You Stranger’ ONE moment you are swooning over the love triangle of LJ (Gabbi Garcia), Ben (Khalil Ramos), and Tristan (Gil Cuerva), the next minute you are at the edge of your seat as unsettling things continue to happen in Sta. Castela.

Such is the experience watching Love You Stranger airing from Monday to Thursday on GMA Telebabad. The GabLil starrer keeps viewers hooked on the plot that merges mystery and romance with folklore and filmmaking—no wonder it continues to reign in its time slot since its pilot airing.

Based on Nielsen Philippines’ National Urban TV audience measurement data for June 6 to 23, Love You Stranger posted 6.2 percent average people rating – ahead of its competitor which registered 5.7 percent average people rating (combined rating of The Broken Marriage Vow from TV5, A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, and Jeepney TV).

The mystery-suspense series remains the viewers’ top choice on its time slot as it is pitted against a new show. Based on Nielsen’s NUTAM overnight data for June 27 to 30, Love You Stranger posted 6.5 percent average people rating – ahead of its new rival program which registered 4.2 percent average people

Tristan is also set to win LJ’s rating (combined rating of A love, much to Ben’s dismay.

Family Affair from TV5, Ben treats Tristan as his A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, own brother, but he and Jeepney TV). himself is also attracted Viewers should watch to LJ. out for the next episodes As LJ, Tristan, and as more exciting scenes Ben dance around one await them–including another’s feelings, one Gabbi and Khalil’s muchuncanny thing happens awaited first primetime after another in Sta. Castela. kissing scene.

The Lilom Film crew While everyone is busy filming in celebration of Sta. Gil Cuerva plays Tristan remains undaunted and continues to shoot the Castela’s Lilom Festival, in ‘Love You Stranger’ biggest scene yet: their movie star Coleen (Lexi Gonzales) dancing at the fiesta ritual. But amid filming, everyone is shaken when Coleen suddenly goes missing.

Where is Coleen? Was she abducted by the Lilom? Or had someone else taken her? Two suspects emerge: Diego (Kim de Leon) who was last seen bickering with Coleen, and Chief Pete (Soliman Cruz) who was captured in the video talking to her the moment before she disappeared. How are these two involved in the disappearance of Coleen?

One moment you are swooning over LJ Dig deeper into the mystery behind (Gabbi Garcia) and Ben (Khalil Ramos), the next minute you are at the edge of your every character in Love You Stranger after seat in ‘Love You Stranger’ Bolera on GMA Telebabad.

Life

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

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TUESDAY, JULY 12, 2022

Tagaytay Highlands’ International Golf Club combines man-made ingenuity with breathtaking natural landscapes

Nothing plain about the rain in Tagaytay Highlands IN THE wake of the country’s most blistering-hot summer yet comes refreshingly cool and wet weather. Right on cue, intermittent rain and thunderstorms blow cooler winds around the metropolis, bringing relief to our heat-blighted populace. There’s a downside to it, however – flash floods in the city drive people indoors. After being tethered to their homes, Filipinos are hankering for a bit more fun and adventure.

Fortunately, at premier residential and leisure complex Tagaytay Highlands, there’s no stopping residents and guests from engaging in stress-busting outdoor pursuits – rain or shine. Its slew of familycentered activities keeps them happily occupied any time, any day.

Right after a downpour, for instance, residents can take invigorating brisk

walks on Tagaytay Highlands’ wet trails and pathways. Imagine breathing in the scent of rain as you look out on vistas of nature’s bounty. It is balm to one’s mind, body, and spirit.

Still, after savoring such sensory delights, those who need more vigorous exercise can opt to run or jog—or hop on their bikes and go pedaling near the Sports Center. They may also bring their kids to the fishing pier or the go-karts for some bonding time.

Meantime, resident golfers can head for the fairways. The Highlands has two of Asia’s most exciting golf courses: Tagaytay Highlands International Golf Club and Tagaytay Midlands Golf Club, both offering spectacular views of Taal Lake, Laguna de Bay, and Mount Makiling.

Tagaytay Highlands International Golf Club is said to be especially challenging. Players need to grapple with its 13th tee, set no less than 84 meters above the greens, and its 18th hole, which presents a 150-yard-wide gully. Yet, avid golfers are drawn towards the championship golf course, which combines man-made ingenuity with breathtaking natural landscapes.

Situated amid a dense forest 1,000 feet above Taal Lake, Tagaytay Midlands’ 400-hectare, 27-hole exclusive golf course strongly appeals to the sport’s more competitive enthusiasts who are spurred to bring their A-game each time.

Tagaytay Highlands is not all adrenaline and adventure, though. In fair or rainy weather, homeowners and guests may indulge in more relaxing yet active pursuits

Taking sleep to the next level

such as mountain trekking, an activity that brings them closer to nature. When they have cranked up enough appetite, they may turn to the Highlands’ specialty restaurants that offer various cuisines and gourmet delights.

Indeed, outdoorsy fun can rouse a hearty appetite for classic Filipino dishes, the kind Concha’s Garden Café likes to serve. Situated at the Highlands Golfers Lounge and the Midlands Golfers Lounge, the popular café offers beloved Filipino comfort food such as its best-selling Laoya, an heirloom dish similar to beef nilaga. Laoya’s hot, flavorful broth and crisp veggies are best for dispelling some of the chill on monsoon days.

For a taste of delectable Chinese treats, Filipino foodies need only to head for Highlands China Palace for their dim sum that comes steamed or fried. Time-honored

favorites are different variants of Siomai, Steamed Prawn Dumpling, Steamed Spinach Dumpling, Sesame Balls, Spicy Chicken Feet, Shrimp Century Egg Roll, and so much more. For a more calorific fare, diners at the Highlands China Palace are urged to try one of its more irresistible offerings—Peking Duck.

On those evenings when residents prefer to stay in, food delivery and take-out options are available at other food and beverage outlets like the Highlands Golfers Lounge, the Midlands Golfers Lounge, and the dining outlets on Gourmet Avenue.

Whatever the season, come blazing sun or heavy downpour, Tagaytay Highlands wields magic with its world-class amenities and provisions—all within reach to ensure residents’ holistic lifestyle and well-being.

Swissôtel Clark opens 10th dining outlet

By Patricia Taculao

I

N TODAY’S world (and economy), many people consider sleep a luxury more than a necessity. Besides a hectic schedule filled with tasks, people tend to have problems getting a good night’s rest because of several distractions, like social media, unwanted thoughts, and sometimes, sudden hunger pangs.

Ristorante di Verona offers guests a new concept of indoor and alternative al fresco dining

Rea Campos-Lopez stresses the relevance of getting the ideal amount of sleep

With all these disturbances, how can people improve their sleep? Rea Campos-Lopez, the owner of Himbing Baby Sleep Solutions, offers some solutions to get a good night’s sleep. As a certified sleep coach, Campos-Lopez continuously stresses the relevance of rest.

“Our sleep affects everything—overall physical health, [our] mental health, and all our functions. [Especially] Now, it helps our immune system, so the less sleep [that] you have, the weaker you are,” Campos-Lopez said.

She added that if people slept the minimum requirement of seven hours a day, they could shed 14 pounds from their body weight without extreme effort. More significantly, sleep sets the tone for the day, and getting less than necessary can cause physical, emotional, and mental strains.

Before sleeping, she recommends minimizing brain activity and slowly winding down with a relaxing routine to help set the mood. Campos-Lopez also suggests sleeping in dark rooms to signal the brain to rest.

Another method that Campos-Lopez urges is to take power naps, lasting 15 to 20 minutes, throughout the day, especially when one feels tired. However, she says to sleep at the right time, meaning not too close to bedtime, because it could disrupt a person’s sleep schedule or body clock.

Campos-Lopez also encourages investing in the bedroom.

After all, comfort comes from the feeling that someone feels safe and confident. Here’s where Swedish furniture giant IKEA comes in, complete with fixtures to spruce up a bedroom while maintaining quality for comfort.

The mattresses have different levels of comfort buyers can choose from to fit their sleep preferences. For instance, the VADSO spring mattress provides stable and even support, while the ASVANG foam mattress contains foam for sleepers

Investing in the bedroom is a must for people who want to improve their sleep quality

Mix and match bedroom decor to achieve a preferred aesthetic

looking for a cloud-like sleeping experience without sacrificing support.

On the other hand, the VALEVÅG combines the qualities of spring and foam mattresses. It’s an extra firm high mattress with individual pocket springs and a thick foam layer for maximum comfort. The VALEVÅG encourages even distribution of body weight through comfort zones that can support the hips and shoulders.

IKEA also developed an ergonomic pillow, KLUBBSPORRE, with cushioning memory foam on one side and a gel layer on the other, relieving pressure and tension from the neck and shoulders while keeping the surface cool.

Since people spend the most time in their bedrooms, whether to relax or do some tasks, IKEA also added a touch of flair to their pieces to ensure that it meets their buyers’ aesthetics.

They can choose from floral prints, minimalist designs, or block patterns to mix and match their bedrooms’ vibe.

Visit the IKEA store at the SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City for its selection of bedroom fixtures, or visit www. ikea.com/ph for more information.

IN PURSUIT of vitality and Swiss hos- that takes customers back to the timeless pitality, Swissôtel Clark opens Ristorante aesthetics of Italy. di Verona, an authentic Italian restaurant Inspired by the Italian precision of fine using contemporary and modern culinary dining, Ristorante di Verona features an techniques. Verona is a province in Italy all-encompassing menu, starting from the and known to be the setting of the classic aperitif to digestivo. romantic novel Romeo & Juliet.

To get the full experience, customers can Located on the 5th floor of Swissôtel choose from the rich-flavored wines to acClark, Ristorante di Verona, which started company their sumptuous lunch or dinner. to welcome guests and customers on July Ristorante di Verona offers more than 300 7, is the 10th dining outlet of the hotel of- extensive wine selections sourced from fering guests a new concept of indoor and various regions, including a 1958 Pio Cealternative al fresco dining, overlooking sare Barolo from Italy and a 1990 Chateau the mountainous and natural view of the Mouton Rothschild 1er Cru Classe from France.

Zambales Mountain Ranges.

Heading “ W e Ristorante di are overVerona is an whelmed internationby the conal-renowned tinuous supchef Alessio port that our Loddo, hailguests and ing from Sarcustomers dinia, Italy. showed since Starting his the hotel’s exper ience soft-opening from the in March. f r e e - st a nd After three ing restaumonths of Chef Alessio Loddo hails from Sardinia, Italy, and now rants in Italy, soft operaheads Ristorante di Verona he ventured tion, and as into interwe continue to offer unique dining experiences for our national regions as early as the 2000s in guests, we are hoping for your continuous Dubai, and has opened multiple Italian ressupport as we open our 10th dining outlet taurants in 5-star hotels all over the world, in the newest vibrant destination within including BiCE Ristorante of Hilton Dubai Clark,” said Tarek Aouini, General Man- Jumeirah, Le Meridian Phuket Beach Reager of Swissôtel Clark. sort, and La Gritta Restaurant in Bangkok.

Great views, warm service, and authenHe was also in charge of quite a few Italtic Italian food – for those looking to en- ian restaurants located here in the Philipjoy a romantic vibe or a well-comfortable pines, including Tosca Italian Restaurant but refined alfresco dining, Ristorante di of Dusit Thani Hotel Manila, Waterfront Verona offers the best of both worlds. Be Cebu City, Crimson Hotel Filinvest City charmed by the dash of creative nature of Alabang, and Taal Vista Hotel in Tagaytay the interiors, starting from the atmospheric before joining Swissôtel Clark. windows and wall installations, spacious With 27 years in service, he has continuhalls, and private dining rooms, up to the ously embedded Italian heritage in cuisine, contemporary architecture of the ceiling inspired by his roots in Sardinia.

More dining experiences beckon at City of Dreams Manila Café Mary Grace

NEW restaurants open at The Shops at the Boulevard in City of Dreams Manila. With the addition of Italian, Thai, and Korean outlets and a popular local café, the integrated resort further steps up its evolving dining landscape with diverse gastronomic offers.

Café Mary Grace is the home of the ensaymadas and cheese rolls that Filipinos love. Apart from the extensive selection of bestselling fresh-from-the-oven pastries and cakes, Café Mary Grace also offers hearty meals including all-day breakfast items, soups, salads, pasta, and sandwiches complemented by signature drinks including their famous hot chocolate.

Rossi Pizza

Adjacent to Jing Ting and Hidemasa, the newly opened Rossi Pizza is a casual trattoria that boasts of Roman-style pizza, bringing in the expertise of Italian pizza masters to Manila. Rossi uses a purpose-built Moretti Forni Oven to consistently deliver an authentic Roman-style pizza experience that diners will enjoy in a typical trattoria.

Mango Tree

Explore Thai cuisine served in a contemporary stylish ambiance. The 148-seater restaurant with private dining rooms that seat 10 to 70 diners is well-loved for its authenticity in offering cuisine from the four regions of Thailand, as offered in the heart of Bangkok where the restaurant chain was founded in 1994.

J. Park Garden Korean Restaurant

Diners on the lookout for the newest authentic

The Shops at the Boulevard

Rossi Pizza is a casual trattoria that boasts Romanstyle pizza Korean barbecue experience at the resort can head out to J. Park Garden and savor popular samgyeopsal with traditional grill-in-table in a modern setting. Premium sampgyeopsal, Korean beef, Wagyu, US beef ribs, and other excellent meat choices are available, along with an extensive selection of ala carte fare including all-time favorite Korean stews and soups.

Other outlets at The Shops at the Boulevard are Red Ginger, Hidemasa, Café Society, Jing Ting, Modern Table 082, and Starbucks Café, which complement the luxury integrated resort’s signature restaurants Nobu Manila, Crystal Dragon and Haliya. Besides the vibrant dining landscape at the upper ground level of City of Dreams Manila, the retail strip is also home to some of the world’s most sought-after brands and stores that provide indulgent shopping-therapy for the most discerning of cosmopolitan shoppers.

For inquiries and reservations, call 8800-8080 or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com. For more information, visit www.cityofdreamsmanila.com.