Manila Standard - 2022 October 30 - Sunday

Nat’l state of calamity eyed

PBBM mulls yearlong effect as ‘Paeng’ cuts deadly path nationwide

n By JOEL ZURBANO, VITO BARCELO, RIO ARAJA AND NASH MAULANA

THE National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) on Saturday urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to declare a yearlong national state of calamity following the onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Paeng that left at least 45 people dead and displaced close to 300,000 others in 10 regions across the country.

Sixteen out of the country’s 17 regions are classified as high risk as the storm cut a deadly path, causing flash floods and landslides from Luzon to Mindanao, NDRRMC executive director Raymundo Ferrer told the President in a virtual meeting. NDRRMC said damage to agriculture at the Soccsksargen region alone in Mindanao was placed at over P54 million. The Department of Agriculture said agriculture damage in Negros Occidental was so far pegged at P2.24 million.

Middleman in Lapid slaydied by ‘bag suffocation’

AN INDEPENDENT autopsy on the body of the alleged middleman in the killing of broadcaster Percival Mabasa showed the remains have a “history of asphyxia by plastic bag suffocation.”

This as Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla revealed they are eyeing two possible masterminds in the murder case.

“Based on available information regarding the circumstances surrounding death, the manner is homicide,” forensic pathologist Dr. Raquel Fortun said on Saturday after conducting an autopsy on the body of Jun Villamor, who was tagged by the self-confessed gunman, Escorial, as the middleman the murder cases.

Villamor died on October 18 inside the New Bilibid Prison, hours after Escorial surrendered to authorities.

Remulla, for his part, said “the investigation is almost over” more than three weeks after Mabasa, also known as Percy Lapid, was shot dead in Las Piñas City on Oct. 3.

“It’s a matter of filing cases and probably being able to identify masterminds in these cases,” he said.

“We are saying masterminds, in the plural. We’re drawing out two persons of interest as masterminds, but we cannot say their names now because we have to determine everything, and we do not want to violate any rights of anybody.

US veep to visit PH in Nov. to ‘reaffirm, strengthen’ ties

US Vice President Kamala Harris will visit the Philippines in November to “reaffirm and strengthen” bilateral ties between the two countries, the White House said on Saturday (Manila time).

Harris will first go to Thailand for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders Meeting on November 18-19 in Bangkok before heading to Manila.

She will travel with her husband, Doug Emhoff, who headed the US delegation at President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s nauguration on June 30.

A ‘rumbling’ in the dark: Mom of three recounts escape from landslide

AS MIDNIGHT approached and floodwaters rose around her, mother-of-three Chonalyn Sapi sought refuge at her local village chapel in the southern province of Maguindanao del Norte, only to find it was already filled with her neighbors.

Desperate to find shelter before severe tropical storm ‘Paeng’ hits, she and others ran uphill in the dark, as boulders, mud and debris rumbled down the mountain in a massive landslide that would go on to bury the nearby hamlet of Kusiong, their home.

“We didn’t sleep that night after the rain started,” Sapi, one of the few survivors of the deluge, told AFP.

“At midnight it was already mud, not water. Some ran to the school, while the others chose the church. Some were already asleep.”

Sapi said those who reached the local high school building survived, but those in the church -- including two elderly relatives of hers -- were buried beneath the mud.

“We did not even have a flashlight. It was really dark. We heard the rumbling of boulders rolling down the mountain. You could not mistake it for anything else,” she said.

Miraculously, she, her husband, and their two younger children were unscathed.

Soaking wet and shivering in the cold, they waited out the deluge on the hillside for three hours.

CONTINUED ON 3A

SCENES OF DEVASTATION. Severe tropical storm ‘Paeng’ affected majority of the regions across the country. Rescuers dig among mud and stones near a river as they try to retrieve the bodies of victims of a landslide in Kusiong village in Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao province. In Marikina City, residents with their belongings arrive at a school that serves as an evacuation center after local authorities sounded the second alarm over the Marikina River. In Batangas province, patients had to be evacuated as parts of the San Juan District Hospital became flooded. In the country’s southern region, members of the Philippine Coast Guard evacuate a mother and her child inside a makeshift box in Zamboanga City. Philippine Coast Guard, San Juan Batangas LGU, AFP

QUICK RESPONSE. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issues several directives to mobilize government assets and funds in response to the swathes of devastation brought about by several tropical storm ‘Paeng’ during a virtual meeting of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

‘DEATH BY SUFFOCATION.’ Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla and forensic expert Dr. Raquel Fortun present the results of the independent autopsy on the body of Jun Villamor, the alleged middleman in the killing of broadcaster Percival Mabasa. Fortun said Villamor’s remains showed a history of ‘plastic bag suffocation.’ Danny Pata

People drink more alcohol when grieving or celebrating—Study

MISERY loves compa ny…and alcohol, study showed.

A social study conducted locally indicated that many people

to

that sale of alcoholic beverages jumped up to 14.2 percent from October 31 to November 2, 2021 from 11.10 percent on October 1 to 30, 2021. The comparative reflected a typical day’s worth of market share to the three-day “Undas” holiday last year.

when they are

for the loss of a loved one, sulking over a breakup with a lover or partner, or moping on a financial debacle.

The traditional observance of All Saints’ Day (Un das) is one such occasion when friends and families gather round over bottles of beer or whatever drink comes in handy.

Incidentally, the authorities, specifically the police have banned the bringing of intoxicating drinks to the cemeteries.

The research done by Packworks Sari IQ showed

Face mask basic protection vs. COVID, other viruses—HPAAC

CONCERNED health workers remind the people that the use of face masks can help ward off the transmission of not just COVID-19, but other diseases as well.

The Healthcare Professionals Alliance Against COVID-19 (HPAAC) said wear ing face masks is one of the basic ways to protect oneself against viruses.

“As healthcare professionals, we still see how COVID-19 affecting families and vulnerable individuals,” said HPAAC in a statement.

“But as we have seen from the past two years, wearing masks is a simple, practical, and effective way to prevent transmission of Covid-19 and other diseases such as influenza, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and chronic respiratory diseases,” the group said.

The alliance issued the statement following the government’s decision to make wearing of face masks volun tary in both indoor and outdoor spaces nationwide.

HPAAC reiterated that the COVID-19 virus is airborne.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday signed an executive order (EO) allowing the voluntary wearing of face masks in indoor settings.

Under EO 7, the wearing of face masks in indoor and outdoor settings shall be voluntary except in healthcare facilities, medical transport, and public transpor tation by land, air, or sea.

The liberalization of the face mask mandate has been recommended by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) through its Resolution 3 (series 2022).

“This is expected as Filipinos consider ‘Undas’ as a time to remember loved ones in a social context, meaning a lot of gatherings that revolve the consumption of alcoholic beverag es is common,” Packworks chief data officer Andres Montiel said.

According to the Sari IQ findings, different alcoholic drinks dominated the market share during the holiday last year, with brandy rising from 1.65 percent on ordinary days to 2.70 percent during the holidays; rum from 2.42 percent to 3.20 percent; gin from 5.32 percent to 5.94 percent; and beer

from 1.14 percent to 1.61 percent.

On the other hand, cigarettes declined by 1.02 percent in market share even though it recorded the highest percentage during the normal period (21.91 percent) and the holidays (20.92 percent).

“The decrease may be because, in a period of solemnity in deference to the dead, we stay away from products that may have caused the death of our loved ones. A poignant reminder that life is short and people want to enjoy it longer,” Montiel added.

On the other hand, sales of tea, coffee, and creamers decreased by 0.65 percent during the same period.

“This might be due to people sleeping late nights in the cemetery, drinking alcohol, and not waking up early to have their morning coffee or tea,” Montiel surmised.

DOLE: Give right holiday pay to workers

WITH the long weekend on hand, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reminded private employers to comply with their legal obligation in pay ing their workers properly, taking into consideration the extra remunerations prescribed by law.

In an advisory, Labor Secretary Bien venido Laguesma specified the proper computation of workers’ wages for the declared special (non-working) days on October 31 and November 1, special (working) day on November 2, and the regular holiday on November 30.

Proclamation No. 79 declares Octo ber 31 as a special non-working day. day, while Proclamation No. 1236 also declares November 1 as a special (non-working) day for the commemora tion of All Saints’ Day, November 2 as a special (working) day for All Soul’s Day, and November 30 as a regular holiday for Bonifacio Day.

The advisory prescribes that for the special (non-working) days on October 31 and November 1, the following pay rules shall apply:

DOLE clarified that if the employee did not work, the “no work, no pay” principle will apply, unless there is a favorable company policy, practice, or collective bargaining agreement (CBA) granting payment on a special day.

For work done during the special das the workers should be paid an additional 30 percent of over the basic wage on the first eight hours of work (basic wage x 130 percent).

For work done in excess of eight hours (overtime work), the employee gets an additional 30 percent of his hourly rate on the said day (hourly rate of the basic wage x 130 percent x 13o percent x the number of hours worked).

If an employee worked on a special day that also falls on his day off day, he shall be paid an additional 50 percent of his/ her basic wage on the first eight hours of work (basic wage x 150%).

For overtime work on a special day that also falls on the employee’s day off, day, he shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his/her hourly rate on the said day (hourly rate of the basic wage x 150 percent x 130 percent x number of hours worked).

While for the declared special (working) day on November 2, the labor advisory states that should a worker report for duty, the employ ee is entitled to receive only his/ her daily wage and no premium pay is required since it is considered an ordinary working day.

Solon backs use of masses as forest rangers

n By RIO N. ARAJA

RIZAL Rep. Fidel Nograles on Satur day lauded the government for tapping beneficiaries of the Tulong Panghanap buhay sa ating Disadvantaged/Displaced (TUPAD) Workers program for the country’s national greening program.

The Department of Labor and Employ ment (DOLE) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) have signed a memorandum of agreement to mobilize TUPAD beneficia ries as forest rangers.

“This is an excellent program that not only helps address our shortage of forest workers, but also provides our TUPAD beneficiaries with meaningful and noble work that will directly benefit their communities and the whole country,” Nograles said.

“The MOA is a creative solution to our need for more forest workers, and hope fully with this we can better monitor and protect these areas especially in the face of continued encroachment,” he added.

Nograles is chairman of the House Committee on Labor and Employment.

He acknowledged the potential impact of the training that TUPAD workers would undergo in “instilling a green consciousness” among the people.

“This is not a dead-end job, not boring, as you learn a lot. This is an opportunity to empower our TUPAD workers, and to instill in them a green consciousness that they can pass on to their families and friends,” he stressed.

The solon expressed confidence that the MOA would be “only the first step in our efforts to revitalize our forests and mitigate the effects of the climate crisis.”

GSIS opens emergency loan window for victims of tropical storm ‘Paeng’

GSIS readies emergency loan for members, pensioners to be affected by tropical storm Paeng.

State pension fund Government Ser vice Insurance System (GSIS) announces that members and pensioners who may be affected by typhoon Paeng can avail themselves of up to P40,000 emergency loan.

GSIS president and general manager Wick Veloso said the lending program was in line with the appeal of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for government agencies to ensure that help is extended to those hit by calamities.

“As of 23 October this year, GSIS has

Mom with P92m shabu nabbed in NAIA

n By JOEL E. ZURBANO

CUSTOMS agents at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) have arrested another suspected drug mule carrying a baggage with P92.2 million worth of shabu from South Africa.

The authorities accosted the 40-year old foreigner, who along with her nine-year old daughter, arrived at NAIA Terminal 3 late Friday night via flight EK 334, from Johannesburg.

The arrest was conducted in coordina tion with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug

Interdiction Task Group. The team found 13 kilos of shabu stashed in a false com partment of the luggage the woman was carrying.

The foreigner is now in the custody of PDEA while her daughter will be placed under deportation proceedings.

The suspect will be charged with violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (Republic Act 9165) in relation to Sections 118 (Prohibited Importation), 1113 (Goods Liable for Seizure and Forfeiture), and 1401 (Unlaw ful Importation) of the Republic Act 10863, otherwise known as the Customs Moderniza tion and Tariff Act

Belmonte seeks financial support for climate plans

already released a total of P4.5 billion that provided financial assistance to al most 145,000 GSIS active members and pensioners,” Veloso said.

He added that the GSIS has allocated another P1.5 billion in emergency loans for members and pensioners in 15 North Luzon areas hit by recent calamities.

“We hope to alleviate the plight of over 69,000 GSIS members and pensioners working or residing in the calamity-de clared areas in the North due to the 7.3 magnitude earthquake in July, Typhoon Karding in September, flashfloods, and dengue outbreak,” Veloso said.

Along with Mayor Barthélémy Toye Dias of Dakar, Senegal, she made the appeal during the closing plenary of the C40 World Mayors Summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

“Please help the cities that have plans, that are prepared, that have the expertise to be able to execute and implement a plan towards fruition,” she noted.

Through a technical assistance from C40 Cities, the British government and other non-government organizations, Quezon City was able to complete its Enhanced Local Climate Change Action Plan (Enhanced LCCAP) for 2021 to 2050, deemed as a strategic roadmap towards building a climate-resilient and carbon neutral city by 2050.

To accelerate the implementation of its priority climate actions, the city govern ment needs to complement locally allo cated funding with support from external partners to be able to effectively adapt to the impacts of climate change and meet the interim target of reducing its carbon emissions by 30 percent in 2030.

“We have a plan with objectives, goals, and targets. In the global south, we have the political will, commitment, and conviction, and we know how urgent the problem is but we do not have the financial resources that we need to carry out this plan that you generously helped us create. I believe that you have a moral obligation to help the global south to see this plan to fruition otherwise they are just pieces of paper,” Belmonte said.

In 2019, the Quezon City government declared a climate emergency, prompting the establishment of clean, sustainable, and environment-friendly programs.

At least 13 percent of the city’s budget was dedicated to climate initiatives.

The city built 93 kilometers of bike lanes to be expanded to 350 kilometers by 2025, and establish 675 community farms that provide livelihood for at least 16,000 QCitizens. Rio N. Araja

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher

Honor Blanco Cabie Opinion Editor

QUEZON City Mayor Joy Belmonte re iterates her call on international climate financing institutions to work with cities to support the implementation of their climate action plans in order for them to achieve their mitigation and adaptation targets as soon as possible.

DRUMMING

Art,” was put together by The Climate Reality Project Philippines in partnership with the Makati City government and the British Embassy in Manila. It will be on display at the Makati City hall until November 7, then move over to the University of Makati and Glorietta in the following weeks. Photo taken at the launch of the exhibit shows (from left) United Kingdom COP26 Regional Ambassador to Asia-Pacific and South Asia Ken O’Flaherty, British Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils, Makati City Mayor Mar-len Abigail Binay, Climate Reality PH Branch Manager Nazrin Castro, and Agam Agenda Strategist for Creative Communications Carissa Pobre.

SANTA CLAUS. The big fat man in red was quite too early for his Yuletide round to bring cheers and gifts for the girls and boys who weren’t naughty, just nice. This scene was captured during the opening of SM City’s Christmas display in Taytay, Rizal.

Norman Cruz

FLY AWAY HOME. Homeward-bound passengers queue up at the check-in counters of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport to pay homage to their departed loved ones on All Saints’ Day (Undas). Norman Cruz

Hong Kong makes biggest ever meth seizure worth $140 million

HONG KONG has made its biggest ever seizure of metham phetamine after un covering a shipment arriving from Mexico worth more than HK$1 billion ($130 million), authorities said Saturday.

Customs officials found a record-break ing 1.8 tons of liquid meth hidden in cartons of coconut water en route for Australia.

The shipment, which officials said likely involved a massive international drug trafficking ring, comes as the Chinese finance hub sees a rise in drug busts involving meth.

“We believe the liquid meth, of high purity, came from South America.

It was packaged there and shipped via a convoluted route to Hong Kong, to be sent to Australia,” said senior superintendent Lee Ka-ming, head of the drug investiga tion bureau at Hong Kong customs.

Intruder hunting Speaker Pelosi attacks her husband with hammer

An intruder attacked the husband of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi with a ham mer, fracturing his skull, after breaking into their California home on Friday in search of her.

Paul Pelosi was “attacked at home by an assailant who acted with force and threatened his life while demanding to see the speaker,” Pelosi spokesman Drew Hammill said.

Paul Pelosi, 82 – who underwent surgery and is recovering in hospital– was at home alone, as his wife was working in Washing ton.

San Francisco police said officers found the assailant at the couple’s home just before 2:30 am (0930 GMT), where he and Paul Pelosi were scuffling over a hammer.

“The suspect pulled the hammer away from Mr. Pelosi and violently assaulted him with it,” San Francisco police chief Bill Scott told reporters, saying later that Paul Pelosi was hit at least once.

He identified the assailant as 42-yearold David Depape but declined to take questions.

At a press conference Friday evening,

Scott said the suspect was still in hospital, adding he could not yet publicly reveal the alleged motivation for the crime.

“This was not a random act,” Scott said. “This was intentional, and it is wrong.”

“Everybody should be disgusted about what happened this morning.”

US media, citing family sources, said the intruder told Paul Pelosi he was going to tie him up and wait for the speaker to get home.

The victim managed to dial 911 while the man was distracted, according to an account given to cable network MSNBC.

Local media had earlier reported that the intruder shouted “Where’s Nancy?” during the assault.

Scott said Depape would be charged with attempted homicide, assault with a deadly weapon, burglary and other felonies.

“Mr. Pelosi was admitted to Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital where he underwent successful surgery to repair a skull fracture and serious injuries to his right arm and hands,” the speaker’s spokes man added. AFP

• the western portion of Pampanga (Masantol, Macabebe, Sasmuan, Lubao, Floridablanca, Porac),

• Metro Manila,

NAT‘L... Mr. Marcos said he will wait for the resolution of the NDRRMC, even as he acknowledged the number of regions affected already merits a state of calamity declaration.

“Considering that many regions are affected, that justifies the state of calamity,” the President said.

Declaring a state of calamity will allow the government to tap calamity funds, impose a price freeze on basic necessities, and grant interest-free loans.

“(We should) declare a national state of calamity due to the effects, damage and projected impacts by Severe Tropical Storm Paeng for a period of one year, unless earlier lifted,” Ferrer said.

Paeng, which maintained its strength while traversing the northern portion of Cavite on its way to the southern portion of Bataan, has so far affected 271,259 individuals or around 72,000 families, data from the NDRRMC showed. At least 37 landslides were recorded.

Paeng is forecast to track westnorthwestward throughout Sunday morning and is expected to be outside of the Philippine Area of Responsibility by 5 p.m. today.

As of late Saturday evening, 12 areas in Luzon remained under Signal No. 3:

• The central and southern portions of Zambales (San Marcelino, Subic, Olongapo City, Castillejos, San Antonio, San Narciso, San Felipe, Cabangan, Botolan),

• Bataan,

• southern portion of Bulacan (Hagonoy, Paombong, City of Malolos, Bulacan, Obando, City of Meycauayan),

• the southwestern portion of Quezon (City of Tayabas, Lucena City, Lucban, Sariaya, Candelaria, Dolores, Tiaong, San Antonio),

• Laguna, • Batangas, • Cavite, • Rizal,

• the northwestern portion of Occidental Mindoro (Paluan, Abra de Ilog) including Lubang Islands, and

• the northwestern portion of Oriental Mindoro (San Teodoro, Puerto Galera, Baco, City of Calapan)

Mr. Marcos, during the virtual meeting, expressed dismay over the high fatality count in Maguindanao province, which was initially placed at 67.

“That seems very high for a flooding incident. It will be important to us to look back and see why this happened and why we were not able to prevent this high number of casualties and why were they not evacuated,” he said.

Acting Defense Secretary Jose Faustino Jr. explained the figure was corrected to 40 fatalities from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao on Saturday morning.

But Mr. Marcos said the government could have done better.

“We could have done better in Maguindanao in terms of preparing because… the 40 deaths with over 10 people missing is a little too high. We should have done better than that,” the President said.

BARMM chief minister Ahod Ebrahim said of the 40 fatalities, 27 were recorded

No arrests have yet been made.

Hong Kong has so far this year uncov ered more than double the meth seized in the whole of last year, with almost three tonnes confiscated by authorities.

The latest bust came days after law en forcement seized meth worth $5.9 million hidden in electrical transformers, which was also headed for Australia.

Hong Kong authorities were alerted via intelligence exchanges with overseas law enforcement to the possibility of large liquid meth shipments arriving in the city, customs official Fong Heung-wing told reporters.

“Coconut water (shipments) from Mex

ico are extremely rare... the last time was in 2016 and weighed just six kilograms,” Fong said, adding that the size of the shipment also made it suspicious.

The contraband, worth a total of around HK$1.1 billion ($140 million), was found among other goods in a cargo container and identified using X-rays last Sunday.

An online search for the shipment’s alleged recipient, an Australian company, came up empty, officials said.

The previous largest meth bust in Hong Kong came in April when officials found 700 kilograms of the drug hidden in in dustrial equipment from Mexico. AFP

India investigating plane engine fire

INDIA’S aviation regulator said Satur day it was probing an engine fire that broke out on a passenger jet just as it was about to take off from Delhi airport.

The IndiGo airlines flight was carry ing 184 people to tech hub Bangaluru and had just begun its thrust on the runway when the fire was spotted, forcing its pilot to return to the bay and evacuate the cabin.

No injuries were reported and offi cials said the plane was emptied safely.

“The priority is to carry out a detailed investigation of the incident and ascertain the reasons for the fire in the engine,” Arun Kumar, chief of the Direc torate General of Civil Aviation told reporters.

“Fortunately, the fire was extin guished swiftly and the aircraft is now grounded.”

Passengers told local media they had heard a loud bang before spotting flames from the engine fire.

Gov: Russian navy ‘repels’ drone attack

THE Russian navy early Saturday was “repelling” a drone attack in the bay of Sevastopol, home to Moscow’s Black Sea Fleet in Moscow-annexed Crimea, a Russian-installed governor said.

“Ships of the Black Sea Fleet are re pelling a UVA (unmanned aerial vehicle) in Sevastopol bay,” Sevastopol governor Mikhail Razvozhayev said on Telegram.

“No facilities in the city have been hit. The situation is under control.”

City authorities later said that the har bour was “temporarily” closed to boats and ferries.

Russia annexed the Crimea peninsula from Ukraine in 2014.

Its forces attacked Ukraine from several directions in February this year, including from Crimea.

Earlier this week, Razvozhayev said that a drone had attacked a thermal pow er station near Sevastopol. AFP

Viagra, exorcism and lies: Brazil’s final poll debate

THE word “liar” rang out dozens of times Friday night in a bitter final debate that also featured mentions of exorcism and Viagra, as Brazil’s presidential rivals made a lastditch bid for votes two days before a run-off election.

Far-right incumbent Jair Bolsonaro and leftist ex-president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva slung insults as debate on topics such as the economy, corruption, the Amazon rainfor est, abortion and foreign policy deteriorated into attack and accusation.

“Brazilians know who the liar is,” said Lula, as the two locked horns over min imum wages and the leftist’s history of corruption allegations.

“Stop lying Lula, stop lying. It’s getting ugly,” said Bolsonaro.

The debate was the second head-tohead confrontation between the two men, and the grand finale of a brutal campaign marked by months of mudslinging, negative ads and a flood of disinformation on social media.

Although Lula holds a small lead in the polls, pundits say it is too close to call, and the rivals are battling for every vote.

“It was an anti-debate, there was nothing that will change the state of play,” said Octavio Guedes, a commentator with Globo News. The debate was broadcast live on TV Globo, Brazil’s biggest network. AFP

in Datu Odin Sinsuat, six in Upi, five in Datu Blah Sinsuat, and two in Barira.

At least 31 individuals are reportedly injured, while 15 others are missing, according to Ebrahim.

BARMM as well as Zamboanga City were already placed under a state of calamity due to massive flooding and landslides caused by continuous rains.

Ebrahim told Mr. Marcos the affected residents in the region needed portable water and clean water.

Marcos then directed government agencies to prioritize delivering potable water as well as purifying systems to the typhoon victims.

MIDDLEMAN... We’re just making sure that we conduct everything in accordance with the law,” the Justice chief added.

Fortun said Villamor’s urine sample also had traces of methamphetamine or shabu, which Remulla said was “a very important finding that was not present in the first [autopsy] report.”

“Rumors that shabu is present inside in the Bilibid, I think, is confirmed by the fact that the person who died had shabu or methamphetamine in the system,” Remulla said.

Aside from Villamor, another inmate, Christopher Bacoto, who is detained at a jail facility under the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), was also identified as a middleman by Escorial.

After Villamor’s death, his sister “Marisa” (not her real name), went to the Department of Justice and was placed under the government’s Witness Protection Program.

Marisa told investigators her brother

texted her hours before he died, saying he feared for his life. She said her brother told her of three NBP detainees involved in the Mabasa killing and asked her to divulge the information if he died.

Initially, the PNP filed a murder complaint against Escorial and the three accomplices he named as brothers Edmon and Israel Dimaculangan, and a third person identified only as “Orly” or “Orlando.” The three are still at large.

Suspended Bureau of Corrections chief Gerald Bantag was named as among the 160 persons of interest in the Mabasa case.

Bantag was placed under preventive suspension after Villamor’s death, which happened inside the NBP that is under BuCor.

Even President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he is not convinced the alleged middleman in the murder case died of natural causes.

“There’s no poison or medicine that was given to the said dead middleman. But I’m still not satisfied that it’s natural causes. Itold them to investigate further because there are ways to kill a person that do not show up in the medico legal,” Mr. Marcos said.

US... “In the Philippines, she will meet with government leaders and civil society representatives. Her visit will reaffirm and strengthen the U.S.-Philippines Alliance and underscore the breadth of our cooperation as friends, partners, and allies,” White House Press Secretary Karine JeanPierre said in a statement.

The United States is hoping for a smooth relationship with President Marcos after rough patches with his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte.

Mr. Marcos earlier scrapped a deal to

buy military helicopters from Russia, the target of a US pressure campaign over its invasion of Ukraine, and has instead sealed a deal with the United States.

The announcement of Harris’ upcoming visit comes after US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson said the State Department will make available $100 million in foreign military financing to the Philippines after the aborted helicopter deal with Russia.

Harris will represent US President Joe Biden in the APEC meeting in Bangkok as the latter has to attend his granddaughter’s wedding. With AFP

A ‘RUMBLING’... Just before dawn, the rain abated, and the family gingerly picked its way back down to the devastated village, wading through torrents of water.

Viewed through drone footage, the impact of the landslide was staggering. It created a massive mound of debris the size of about 10 football fields, just below several picturesque mountain peaks carpeted in yellow-green grass.

Rescuers clad in the orange vests of the local fire department and armed with shovels poked beneath the galvanized iron roofing sheets of the homes that were half-buried in the rock and mud, looking for bodies.

About 60 houses were buried, while a few others made of lighter materials were swept down towards the road below, said Lieutenant-Colonel Dennis Almorato, spokesman for an army division tasked with helping rescue efforts. AFP

DISPERSING PROTESTERS. A riot policeman throws tear gas at members of the so-called front line during a protest demanding the freedom of political prisoners –arrested during the 2021 mobilizations—outside of the prosecutor’s office in Bogota on October 28, 2022. AFP

IndiGo said the aircraft experienced a technical issue, “immediately after which the pilot aborted the take-off and the aircraft safely returned to the bay”. AFP

SEXUAL DIVERSITY.

LGBT rights activists carry a large rainbow banner as they march in front of the Taipei 101 commercial building during the Gay Pride Parade in Taiwan on Oct. 29, 2022. AFP

SL AGRITECH, the pioneer in research, development and production of hybrid rice seeds in the Philippines, introduces the next generation of leaders who will continue to strengthen the company’s legacy in pushing for rice selfsufficiency and a holistic agricultural recovery in the country.

As the leader of the group and the successor of SL Agritech chief executive Henry Lim Bon Liong, Michelle LimGankee now serves as the executive vice president and is in charge of the company as a whole.

As the company’s EVP with more than 11 years of experience, Michelle has been actively involved in the research and development of hybrid seed technology, ensuring that SL Agritech’s tradition and their family’s legacy of assisting regional farmers is carried on.

Contrary to what many people think, Michelle always had a simple childhood. This motivated her more than ever to reach out to vulnerable communities and look for methods to help them lead comfortable lives.

She has led the company’s Masaganang Ani 300 program—a project that enabled farmers to produce more than three times as much through hybrid seeds and so double their revenue. Michelle has encountered several farmers whose lives have drastically improved as a result of this initiative.

“The use of hybrid seed technology means providing our farmers and the Filipino people a fighting chance to attain rice sufficiency. Through our current hybrid seed varieties which include the SL-8H, SL-19H, SL-20H, and SL-68H, we continue to improve our research and development capabilities in quest of more highyielding seed varieties that will aid in the production of rice and improve the livelihood of our farmers today,” she says.

Rice farmers

The third generation of leadership is also composed of SL Agritech Corp. EVP for operations Brian Lim. Growing up aware of the ins and outs of the business, Brian Lim also had his fair share of achievements in leading the corporation to where it is today.

SL Agritech introduces new generation of leaders

Brian is a strong advocate of the development of hybrid rice technology to ensure the prosperity and security of our nation’s food supply. He oversees operations and assures the quality of rice and seeds exported to both domestic and foreign markets. He is in charge of the entire end-to-end process as well as labor activities at the facility.

Beyond his passion for agriculture, Brian finds ways to give back to the community by continuously opening up avenues to expand contract growing sites. Earlier this year, Brian helped the company pursue its plant expansion. The company’s efforts have reached Laguna, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac and Mindoro. Through this initiative, the company can continue to provide employment opportunities to the agrisector and simultaneously help more farming communities.

Health champion

Completing the list of leaders is Tiffany Lim-Ngo, the marketing director of SL Agritech. Tiffany championed CSR programs that helped develop marginalized farming communities into highly progressive ones. One of the most notable campaigns she leads is the “Balik-Biyaya” program – an ongoing project that provides feeding programs and rice donations to farmers, fishermen, community pantries, and hospitals across the country.

Tiffany champions a democratic style of leadership amongst her employees. She is always open to hearing her team’s inputs before making significant decisions on relevant company movements.

As marketing director, she also ensures that SL Agritech’s products are positioned effectively in the market through various media channels and campaigns such as the launch of a Brown Rice tapping Gary Valenciano as an ambassador to help increase awareness of its health benefits.

Insurer seeks to protect PH ‘gig’ workers

By Othel V. Campos

SINGAPORE-BASED insurance tech

nology firm Gigacover which offers income protection insurance to the world’s gig workers has recently started to cover the Philippine informal sector for inclusive digital transformation.

Gigacover founder and president Amerson Lin said the company’s goal is to protect the underserved segments by offering customizable products and customer-centric services that address their challenges.

“By 2026, our goal is to protect over 1 million Filipinos and give them better financial stability through insurance. We want to protect their lives, children, health, gadgets and income-earning abilities by developing more relevant products and distributing them through communities to meet the current needs of the regular Filipino,” he said.

The Philippine informal sector is composed mostly of small businesses, self-employed individuals and freelanc ers who are usually shunned by insur ance firms due to unstable earnings and lack of financial credibility.

Gigacover expanded to the Phil ippines in 2021 when the pandemic showed an opportunity for the firm to extend protection to the growing ‘gig’ economy workers.

“Our value proposition is simple – we have the technology to develop cus tomizable digital insurance products that address the specific needs of the masses bundled with the services that enable a more seamless onboarding and integration of various insurance products,” Lin said.

Over the last two years, Giagcover noted the growth of the Philippines gig economy as the pandemic accelerated the use of app-based transportation

and logistics services and increased number of freelance and non-regular employment opportunities.

This pivot in economic activities made the Philippines an attractive mar ket for Gigacover to introduce its core products--income protection, health in surance and deductible reduction.

The Philippines is the first country outside Singapore to host Gigacover with partnerships across a number of insurance companies to penetrate the grassroots economy and the millions of workers employed by micro, small and medium enterprises.

Data from the Department of Trade and Industry show that 99.6 percent of businesses in the Philippines are MS MEs, most of which are not protected by insurance plans.

As part of Gigacover’s mission to pro tect the underserved segments, the firm can tailor-fit affordable insurance solu tions to MSMEs, including micro-enter prises that are locally defined with one to nine employees.

“Unlike insurance offerings from

LOGISTICS and e-commerce innovator Bjorn Pardo co-founded in dependent venture studio AHG Lab and drives the company into ‘proptech+’—a space that serves the Philippine property technology market and adjacent industries including hospitality, education, pro curement, logistics and beyond.

Pardo brings his experience in founding startups independently, and his more recent experience in corporate venture building, to lead AHG Lab in building companies that deliver innovative tech-pow ered applications and solutions.

He mobilizes the venture builder’s synergistic team of seasoned entrepreneurs, creatives, and investors that together power over 10 tech-enabled startups, with more ventures in the works. He is work ing alongside the original investors of AHG who have established

traditional companies that are often expensive for this sector, we are able to develop products with our part ners to focus on the primary needs of micro-enterprises to keep the pre mium range low and competitive,” Lin said.

Gigacover, through its insurance and healthcare partners, offers digital in surance plans to individuals and busi nesses in the Philippines with options for customization to make them more affordable and relevant to the specific needs of the customer.

With partners Etiqa Philippines and MAPFRE, Gigacover in the Philippines offers life insurance through GigaOne; GigaWork for income and parcel in surance; GigaHealth, the firm’s health insurance; GigaDrive, a motor excess reduction insurance; and, GigaBundle, an insurance bundle for businesses that includes essential care coverage, life and accident insurance, and earnings and income protection.

It is also in the process of exploring the co-creation of products focused on mental health and the agriculture sector.

Lin said the firm sees unlimited op portunities both in Singapore and the Philippines and is looking to expand partnerships across the transportation and logistics industry.

“Despite the current challenges faced by startup companies across South east Asia, our Singapore operations continue to be profitable with a 10 per cent month-on-month growth rate and our Philippine operations continue to strengthen with a 35 percent, monthon-month growth rate,” Lin said.

Gigacover has protected over 150,000 gig economy workers across Southeast Asia and plans to further ex pand to cover the markets of Vietnam and Thailand.

their own portfolios in the traditional real estate industry and in the more cutting-edge property technology field.

Being the innovator that he is, Pardo wants to push the envelope beyond the bounds of PropTech solutions. This is why he is lead ing AHG Lab in their move toward PropTech+ — expanding the use of property technology to address not just the needs of real estate stakeholders, but surrounding communities as well.

“The original thought was strictly PropTech, focusing primarily on property owners and tenants. But as we dived deeper into the solutions, it became clear that there’s so much need to address the communities around it. We saw opportunities to serve adjacent mar kets like professionals in co-working spaces, students in co-living arrangements, tourists, and so on. That’s when we added ‘plus’ in ‘PropTech+’,” said Pardo.

“Going into PropTech+ is really looking at who we can serve from a different perspective, from property owners, tenants and beyond. It’s thinking about what solutions we can offer within that community which opens doors to infinite possibilities of ventures that we can build,” he said.

Pardo previously co-founded the first e-commerce venture stu dio in the Philippines, QuadX, in 2013. He also joined Unionbank’s venture builder UBX in 2018, where he ideated, built and launched two ventures and grew them to serve over 100,000 businesses as managing director.

Pardo’s expertise in building and scaling startups was solidified earlier on in 2004 when he founded Xend, the express shipping and courier service that revolutionized e-commerce logistics in South east Asia.

“I’ve been building ventures my entire professional life, and it’s always fulfilling to learn new things with every new industry I go into. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to make an impact and do what I know best, here at AHG Lab,” said Pardo of his experience in a variety of industries including logistics, e-commerce, health, fintech and now PropTech+.

Growsari

GROWSARI, the leading B2B ordering and store solution platform in the Philippines, has adopted the use of QR or quick response technology to cascade the benefits of digita lization down to the grassroots level.

The online platform sees this as its initial push towards cashless retail, as more and more retailers from the grassroots level em bark on their unique journey to digitalization.

“We are pleased to show support for BSP’s initiative for a cashless society through QRPH to our market. This also strengthens Growsari’s commitment to assist MSMEs to adapt to the age of digitalization and to mod ernize their store operations,” said Growsari head of financial services Sandeep Bhalla.

Growsari said small brick-and-mortar stores had been underrepresented and un derbanked, mainly because they were tech nologically-marginalized and logistically diffi cult to organize as a group.

With the pandemic accelerating the shift to digital, store owners are feeling the pres sure to adjust to the new landscape.

Growsari continues to bridge the gap between financial institutions and sari-sari stores by rolling out Universal PH QR codes, in partnership with Instapay-approved mem ber institutions.

As the use of the QR system becomes more popular, it also becomes an integral component of the small businesses leap to financial inclusion. Micro enterprises get their shot to become part of the digital econ omy and revel on the smooth transition to the future of retail.

The QR technology involves a safe and se cure payment method and benefits custom

COMPANIES all over the world strive to build inclusion and diversity into their workplace culture to give everyone a fair chance to im prove the quality of their life.

Even before the pandemic, global confec tionery manufacturer Mars Wrigley has been promoting inclusion and diversity within and beyond its factory in Antipolo City.

“Aside from making our customers smile, keeping our associates happy at work has been one of our main commitments. We want to create a work environment that they will truly enjoy and be proud of,” said Mars Wrigley Antipolo factory director Fernando del Castillo.

Mars Wrigley is committed to creating an environment for associates where they feel a strong sense of belonging and purpose. With that emanating from the factory, Mars Wrigley believes that supporting the com munities near them can help create a positive impact to their lives.

Community support This year, the man ufacturer launched its Experiential Learning Program to help provide jobs to the less privileged. The company works with NGOs such as Smile Train, the world’s largest cleft charity.

Mars Wrigley also collaborates with YULA Women’s Ini tiative Inc. to enjoin the women of Anti

polo City and nearby municipalities in Rizal province to participate in the Mars Wrigley Experiential Learning Program and learn valuable work skills.

Upon graduation, they are endorsed to agencies whom Mars Wrigley contracts with in an aim to provide opportunities where they can build their skills and employability.

“During the pandemic, the less fortunate have been impacted the most. Improving inclusion and diversity in workplaces is not only the right thing to do but is critical to sup porting the communities we operate in,” said del Castillo.

Through the years, Mars Wrigley Antipolo has been working to build a diverse workforce by intentionally aiming to have a 50-to-50 ratio of male and female associates. This diversity is also reflected in its commitment to shape future leadership of the Antipolo factory, ensuring that women are well-represented in the management team.

Inclusive space Inclusive practices are not only applied to hiring opportuni ties, but also to the overall workplace culture. The factory provides a dedicat ed breastfeeding room for return-towork moms and en sures they have the right facilities to feel comfortable at work. Meanwhile, a prayer room is provided for different religions.

SL Agritech marketing director Tiffany Lim-Ngo

SL Agritech executive vice president Michelle Lim-Gankee

SL Agritech executive vice president for operations Brian Lim

Gigacover founder and president Amerson Lin

A Growsari

Othel V. Campos

Bjorn Pardo

Rosalie Dizon, Quality and Food Safety Manager poses together with Principal technologist Dennelle Shaw

THERE were around 120 booths that engaged the interests of serious gamers, fans and enthusiasts when the three-day Electronic Sports and Gaming Summit (ESGS) 2022 returned as an in-person activity on Friday at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

Despite a big typhoon which hit the Philip pines over the weekend, gaming aficionados still came for the face-to-face engagements which made the summit more interesting.

For the last two years, it was done online. Wit the Covid-19 pandemic slowly waning, a more active face-to-face engagement took place.

One of the presenters was Acer Predator.

As a major sponsor, and as one of top the gaming hardware brands in the country, they unveiled a booth called “Meta City where gamers and gaming enthusiasts participated in the flight and racing simulators.

They joined friends in Tekken fights, and in combat at Dota 2 and Valorant LAN games.

The booth also offered exclusive promos to interested people who wanted to buy Predator and Nitro gaming laptops.

Among their offerings in the Acer Predator Helios 300 notebook, which 12th Gen Intel ICore9 processors that give you superior gam ing performance while delivering the flexibility to seamlessly multitask.

“We will enhance more of our gaming port folio with gaming notebooks, desktops, gaming gadgets and accessories. With this, we hope to dominate the market in the coming years,” said Anthony Gerard Gob, who is Acer Philippines Sr. Product Head for Consumer Products.

Discounts of up to 57% have been offered on select models, and every purchase of a laptop entitles the customer to an Acer loot bag and/or gaming chair.

BEYOND THE GAME

At “Meta City,” fans had meet and greet sessions with Predator Gaming’s ambassadors,

‘Meta City’ a big hit among gamers at Esports Summit

including Kang Dupet, Reg Rubio, Amara, Een Mercado, Burg, Ashley Gosiengfiao, and Team Payaman led by Cong TV.

Gamers in Mobile Legends Bang Bang, Valo rant and other titles showed up to meet their fans. Games like the Valorant Bomb Defusing contest, the Wildrift Claw Machine, and a series of Beyond the Game packs will be offered to fans and enthusiasts.

The displays and the setups around the SMX area was done with such dedication, with plenty of devotion from people behind the event.

“We take pride in setting up the booths, ad walls and other displays for the many events which took place in ESGS 2022, as the sum

mit strives to present the world of the Filipino gamers, the cosplayers and the gaming creators to the community and the public,” said DC8 Marketing Service chief Irene San Gregorio, the event’s official contractor.

San Gregorio said her company assisted gam ing groups and companies in setting up areas where they can organize esports competitions among professional gamers, casual players, and enthusiasts.

“We are very excited to meet the members of the esports community and gaming enthu siasts in events like ESGS 2022 and Predator League 2022 again after more than two years

of lockdowns and restrictions. Our support for these events reiterates Acer’s commitment to the gaming community,” said Sue Ong-Lim, Acer Philippines General Manager.

Ong-Lim said the culmination of the Asia-Pa cific Predator League 2022 Grand Finals will take place from November 11 to 13 in Japan.

This year, the competition will be divided into two tournaments: Dota 2 and PUBG: Battle grounds. Philippine representatives TNC Pro Team, Polaris Esports, GrindSky Esports, and Execration will compete in the Dota 2 finals while ArkAngel Predator will take part in the PUBG finals.

Spicy Oragons vow to bring PSL title to Bicol

RETURNING Pilipinas Super League (PSL) member Bicol Spicy Oragons hope to produce a basketball masterpiece worthy of the region and the people they represent.

Bicol Spicy Oragons coach Monnel Kallos believes the team, built around young and experienced play ers, is up to the challenge.

“We’re ready. The Bicol Spicy Oragons will hit the ground running once the new PSL conference kicks off next month,” said Kallos during the team’s media presentation at the Roadhouse Manila Bay last Thursday.

A proud son of Tabaco, Kallos hopes to deliver a long-overdue title to Bicol and his province mates in the newest regional basketball league headed by Rocky Chan and Ray Alao.

Kallos, a battle-tested veteran who also had a long and colorful coaching experience in Thailand, said the Spicy Oragons will bring PSL games to Bicol in the first week of December to bring the game closer to the people.

He said Chan and PSL head of basketball opera tions Leo Isaac, who both attended the team launch ing, have already approved the proposal.

“Dadalhin namin sa Bicol itong PSL basketball for atleast two playing days. Pati siguro sa Masbate. Ngayon pa lang, madami na tayong mga kababayan ang nag-aabang sa PSL dun,” added Kallos.

Asked about Bicol’s chances in the 10-team com petition lasting until the early part of 2023, Kallos expressed confidence the players would perform well as expected

“Malaki ang tiwala namin ng coaching staff ko sa mga players namin. They know their roles in the team and they are eager to play their best,” explained Kallos.

He also lauded the PSL officials for approving the 25-man line-up aimed at giving more players the opportunity to play and introducing changes in the officiating by tapping the help of the Philippine Bas ketball Association (PBA).

NU opens title-retention bid with rout of Adamson

NATIONAL University set its bid for a seventh straight title into motion with a 4-1 rout of Adamson University in the UAAP Season 85 Men’s Badminton Tournament, Saturday at the Centro At letico Badminton Center in Quezon City.

This is the Bulldogs’ 52nd straight tie won since taking its second UAAP championship in Season 77.

NU clinched the tie as early as the first doubles match with a pair of national team standouts Solomon Padiz Jr. and Julius Villabrille. Padiz Jr. and Villabrille just needed 19 minutes to subdue Adam son’s John Pedrosa and Mark Racelis, 21-6, 21-7.

Lanz Zafra opened the day for the

Bulldogs with a thorough 21-11, 21-7 conquest of Christian Lloyd Garcia in the first singles match, before Mark Anthony Velasco put NU on the cusp of taking the win, 21-7, 21-6 over Nathaniel Acedillo in the second singles.

“Kami po’y natutuwa kasi nag-contin ue na yung UAAP dahil three years din nag-stop yung UAAP,” UAAP Season 82

Rookie of the Year and NU captain Padiz Jr. said. “Kami po, OK naman po (yung performance) kasi ang ano pa namin ay i-all out po yung mga game namin. Kasi nga Day 1 nga po, kailangan pong magamay po namin yung court, yung bola, lahat po, kasi yung three years po, kailangan din po naming mag-adjust.”

In the other courts, Season 82 run ner-up Ateneo de Manila University and University of the Philippines took care of their respective opponents.

Arthur Salvado and Lynden Laborte steered the Blue Eagles to the win over the University of Santo Tomas, 4-1, as they took care of their two assignments in the day including the second doubles match that sealed the tie in their favor.

Salvado defeated Kyle Basilio in the first singles match, 21-13, 21-16, then Laborte did his part of the bargain in the second singles rubber, 21-8, 21-9, over Francis Sarmiento. The two then joined forces in the first doubles match for a 21-16, 21-15 decision against Jacob Galve and Janzen Panisales, 21-16, 21-15.

Lady Eagles upend Falcons

ATENEO de Manila University stretched its winning run to four games, escaping Adam son University, 76-72, in the UAAP Season 85 women’s basketball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Saturday.

Down by eight, the trio of Victoria Adesh ina, Cris Padilla, and Rose Ann Dampios pulled the Lady Falcons within two, 72-74, with 43.5 seconds left in the ball game.

After the Blue Eagles failed to convert on the other end, Adamson went to Adeshina anew but she missed a jumper with 10 seconds to go as Jhazmin Joson iced the game from the line for Ateneo.

“We’re very thankful we were able to survive Adamson. Again, we’re a young team, we’re still learning,” said Blue Eagles coach LA Mumar.

Prized rookie Kacey Dela Rosa returned after missing two games due to illness, tallying a monster double-double of 23 points and 23 rebounds to go with two blocks. Villacruz was clutch in the fourth with 11 of her 21 points while Junize Calago added nine points.

The Blue Eagles solidified their hold of the fourth spot at 5-3, 1.5 games ahead of the closest pur suer University of the Philippines.

“We’re getting better. We’re gon na shoot for that Final Four slot. We’re gonna fight and we’re gonna claw our way,” added Mumar.

The Lady Falcons, on the other hand, saw their skid extend to four matches to fall to 2-6, still at sixth.

Adeshina had 27 points and 14 rebounds in the losing cause while Dampios got 17 points, seven steals, and five rebounds.

Jhaz Joson of Ateneo punctures the defense of two Adamson defenders.

Bicol Spicy Oragons: One of the teams to watch in the PSL.

Gamers try the Tekken game at Predator’s Meta City booth (Photo by Peter Atencio)

Acer Philippines executives at the Esports Summit (Photo by Peter Atencio)

Travel through Korean history and catch famous hats from K-dramas to 19th century artifacts

HE Korea, A Land of Hats exhibit runs until November 30 at the newly located Metropolitan Museum of Manila (The M).

Presented with support from the “Traveling Arts” proj ect of the Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE), in collaboration with the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines (KCC) and Coreana Cosmetics Museum, the specially curated exhibit fea tures around 150 pieces includ ing heritage Korean traditional hats, and modern artworks.

As the creations of Korean National Intangible Cultural Heritage, and other artisans, the hats exhibit both the beauty and the complexity of Korean craftsmanship. These masterpieces provide visitors with their unique

For Koreans, the moja (hat) is more than a mere accessory. It is believed to be directly linked to one’s attitude, spirit, and life beyond serving practical and decorative func tions. It was a unique form of clothing culture that reflected the rich Korean his

tory, the occasion, social values and status, and the wearer’s rank. But this exhibit is not just for the eyes, as you can also try wearing the hats and take pictures of the traditional Korean street background for the full Korean cultural experience.

Walking around the exhibit, you’ll be amazed to see the well-known Gat up close, which is famous for its ap pearance in the Korean zombie series Kingdom. These works of art are cre ated by the Korean National Intangible Cultural Heritage Gannil (Hat Making) artisan Park Chang Young and its certified trainee Park Hyung Park This simple, yet complex work speaks to the visitors about the mentality of Korean nobles that valued discipline and humility.

The artifacts section located at the center of the exhibition hall boasts ac cessories and headdresses for women, men, and children predating back in the 19th century to the 20th century.

Other artworks that will surely catch visitors’ eyes are Korean traditional costume dolls of Baehwa Women’s University. It is the first time these dolls are exhibited internationally, and they decided to visit the Philippines. The dolls recreate Korean clothing in differ ent seasons from childhood to adult hood. The bride doll, on the other hand, displays the traditional headdress for weddings in the North Korean region, which shows the glamour of a tradi

Blending Tokyo street style with classic American youth culture

TOMMY HILFIGER, which is owned by PHV Corp, announces its first collaboration with Tokyo streetwear brand MYne. The collaboration inter mixes the brand’s playful American cool with MYne’s irreverent aesthetic, to celebrate selfexpression through culture, music, and art.

Fusing modern twist on heritage with MYne’s celebration of Tokyo street culture, the capsule collection offers an irreverent take on streetwear staples. The nine-piece menswear and womenswear capsule includes classic denim; prints with both brands’ logos; a ‘90s-inspired regatta jacket; a rugger shirt with asymmetrical sizing and color scheme; and a crewneck sweatshirt adorned with a varsity-style logo. Details include a reversed front and back design, color-blocking and finishes in the brand’s signature red, white, and blue palette.

The campaign visuals feature actors Yuto Isomura and Kaito Yoshimura, model Sharar , and rappers PECOLI, Yo-Sea, and LINNA MYne designer Koji Kamiya has close ties to the Japanese street scene, connecting us to the direct community and building on the commitment to celebrating diversity and inclusion.

The collection is available at select Tommy Jeans stores, MYne’s directly-managed stores, and online at tommy.com.

WE KNOW that this is the first time since 2019 that you will be with your families to pay your respects to your departed loved ones during the AllSaints’ Day holiday, and so, here are a few friendly reminders for those who will travel this season.

Be on time at the airport  Cebu Pacific and Cebgo passengers must allot time for traffic going to the airport. Passengers must be at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 and 4 at least three hours before departure for domestic flights, and three hours for interna tional flights. Passengers traveling to Dubai are allowed to check in as early as seven hours before departure.

Check-in online  Long lines may be avoided at the air port by checking in via the official CEB mobile app or via the Manage Booking section of the CEB website. Both options are available from seven days up to one hour before the scheduled time of departure for domestic flights, and up to four hours before the scheduled departure for international fliers.

Check flight information  All check-in counters close one hour before the scheduled time of departure to ensure there is ample time for all necessary pre-flight procedures. We encourage passengers to immediately proceed to their respective boarding gates. Boarding commences 45 minutes before the scheduled departure. Updated flight information may be viewed at https://www.cebupacificair. com/flight-status

Self-tag luggage for select domestic destinations  Guests flying out of select domestic destinations (Manila, Davao, Clark, Cagayan de Oro, General Santos, Bohol, Iloilo, and Zamboanga) are re minded to self-tag their check-in lug gage prior to proceeding to counters

tional Korean wedding at that time.

Along with the actual hats, the exhibi tion also presents specially curated con temporary artworks that are inspired by Korean traditional hats. In the form of painting, photography, books, and installation work, the artworks add a modern twist for the visitors.

The exhibition is available to the public for free until November 30,

Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the newly located Metropolitan Museum of Manila in BGC. Guests are advised to wait for the confirmation letter from The M. The visit will be by appointment and opened to a maximum of 20 people, which can be reserved through: https://tinyurl.com/TheM-2022Sched uleYourVisit.

for bag drops, in line with the airline’s contactless flight procedures.

Single-hand carry and exemptions

Passengers must bring only one carryon bag for a more convenient flight experience. The carry-on bag must not exceed 7kg in weight and can fit in the overhead bins or under the seat.

CEB has exempted items that are allowed to be carried aside from the single hand-carried bag:

· Gadgets or food items that cannot be checked in;

· Items purchased inside the airport (requires proof of receipt);

· Assistive or medical items such as walking canes, and foldable walkers;

· Baby food and necessities for pas sengers traveling with infants;

· Or a small bag that can fit under the seat

Checked baggage policy

Passengers are encouraged to purchase prepaid baggage with their tickets during initial booking on the CEB website and mobile app. CEB has implemented a per piece baggage policy that applies to all passengers with checked baggage. A passenger

may choose either a 20kg or a 32kg check-in baggage, or a maximum of the two options.

Any excess in size, weight, and pieces are subject to oversized bag gage fee, excess baggage fee, and/or extra Bag Fee.

Check the airport terminal assignment of your flight

Passengers must check their itinerar ies and boarding pass before proceed ing to their designated airport terminal. Cebu Pacific’s 5J flights arrive at and depart from the NAIA Terminal 3, while Cebgo (DG) flights to and from Manila operate from the NAIA Terminal 4 at Domestic Road, Pasay City.

Bring vaccination card, check for other travel requirements

Travel document requirements may change from time to time, without prior notice. We recommend all guests to continue checking relevant travel advisories to prepare for their flight.

Passengers traveling to the Phil ippines must accomplish the new electronic arrival card within 72 hours prior to departure from the country of origin. This replaced the One Health Pass as an entry requirement. Save a printed/digital copy of the QR code at the end of the form, and present this at the check-in counter, and on arrival.

Passengers may also refer to http:// bit.ly/CEBTravelRequirements for more information.

Guests must also update contact details on their bookings so they will be notified of pre-flight reminders and flight changes.

CEB continues to implement a multi-layered approach to safety while it operates with a 100 percent fully vaccinated crew, 95 percent of whom have been boosted – all to ensure “ev eryJuan” flies safely and conveniently on Cebu Pacific.

Visit www.cebupacificair.com for more information.

Several artifacts on display at the ‘Korea, A Land of Hats’ exhibit

The Gat, a Korean traditional hat, as seen in the Korean zombie series

‘Kingdom’

Nicole Laurel hums forbidden desire in new song ‘Bawal’

IT HAD been a little while since noted multi-talented Nicole Laurel got back in the recording cycle. She didn’t stop writing new songs. In fact, there are dozens in progress.

For her new single “Bawal,” Nicole collaborated with a co-musician she had met nearly nine years ago but never really had the opportunity to write with—guitarist/multi-instrumentalist Gabe Dandan. During an impromptu jam, he put down the guitar and began playing keys. Nicole began humming instantaneous melody and lyrics—the initial songwriting for “Bawal” was done in about 30 minutes.

“This is one of the simplest lyrical expressions I have published, nothing poetic here, just a sentiment revolving around the quintessential question: ‘ Bakit masarap kapag bawal? It was one of those instances na halos sabay lumabas

yung lyrics and melody, and halos tapos na yung song form in the first session. I was led into the song by the chord choices. The song is a simple, slow, soulful blend of sultriness and the melancholy of desiring something you can’t have,” Nicole noted.

“I like working with Nicole because I am inclined towards improvisation-style writing, it brings out the best in my playing and musical choices, Nicole encourages that environment. Her brain is like a factory for making lyrics, the workflow is seamless and that doesn’t always happen with everyone,” Gabe said in turn.

“Bawal,” launched on October 28, aims to take listeners along with the memories of countless chases, losses, painful lessons, maybes, possibilities, and loves that could have been.

More songs are birthing from Nicole Laurel

Asensio, but for now, she just needed to publish at least one to ignite the process again.

“The beautiful thing about songwriting is— technically, walang bawal …you can write about anything, anyone and everything… you can use any note, rhythm, topic, lyric that refl ects your soul and sentiment. Marami ngang bawal, ngunit, sa paglikha… lahat pwede . This is why creativity proves to be my greatest purpose and escape all in one, theres no telling where the creative chase will lead, but one thing is for sure, the creative chase is never futile, and always masarap ,” ends Nicole.

News magazine show airs live from Korea to mark first anniversary

B

EGINNING today, GTV’s Dapat Alam Mo! is celebrating its first year with a weeklong anniversary special, which includes a special live coverage all the way from South Korea.

Hosted by Emil Sumangil, Patricia Tumulak , and, the daily news magazine show has won the hearts of viewers since its launch in October 2021.

Dapat Alam Mo! is a certified winner on-air and online—consistently beating its rival shows since its pilot airing—and continuing to amass followers and views online. Every day, the show not only delivers the hottest news items but also dishes out various human interest stories and extends public service to its viewers.

Based on Nielsen TAM ratings data, since its launch in GTV on Oct 18, 2021 up to Oct 13, 2022 (data inclusive of its simulcast in GMA from Feb 14 to Mar 18, 2022), Dapat Alam Mo! logged an average people rating of 7.7 percent in Urban Phils. The show is way ahead of TV5’s Frontline Pilipinas, which only got 1.9 percent in Urban Phils. for the same cover period.

Online, the program’s offi cial Facebook page saw massive growth with more than 600,000 followers. During this period, Dapat Alam Mo! generated more than 72 million engagements on the platform. On TikTok, the show has more than 84,000 followers and over 743,000 likes. As of writing, the program’s TikTok page has chalked up more than 49 million views.

Sumangil, Tumulak, and Atienza only have words of gratitude to the viewers who continue to support their show.

“Truly a blessing!” exclaimed Atienza about the show’s anniversary. “I wasn’t expecting Dapat Alam Mo! to be this successful. It is my first show since I moved to GMA and

everything that happened [that] year was a haze. Every day was new to me. New people to work with, new studio, new workplace, new work style—all of it was all new and exciting! All hard work but fun! The whole year just fl ew like that as the adage goes, ‘time fl ies when you’re having fun.’

Tumulak is beyond grateful that she is celebrating the show’s fi rst year.

‘Bones and All’ bares more blood, gore in new extended trailer

WARNER Bros. Pictures has just released the extended theatrical trailer for Bones And All starring Taylor Russell, Timothée Chalamet , and Mark Rylance, from director Luca Guadagnino ( Call Me

By Your Name ).

In Bones and All, first love finds Maren (Taylor Russell), a young woman learning how to survive on the margins of society, and Lee (Timothee Chalamet), an intense and disenfranchised drifter, as they meet and join together for a thousand-mile odyssey

that takes them through the back roads, hidden passages, and trap doors of Ronald Reagan’s America. But despite their best efforts, all roads lead back to their terrifying pasts and a final stand that will determine whether their love can survive their otherness.

Bones and All is based on the novel by Camille DeAngelis, screenplay by David Kajganich

The film, which unspools on November 23, is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.

“I’ve learned a lot from this show,” she says, adding that Dapat Alam Mo! allowed her to get to know more about Atienza and Sumangil. “ Mas naging malapit kami sa isa’t isa. Mas komportable at mas relaxed na kami magkatrabaho. Mas lumawak din ang topics na napapag-uusapan off cam—from health to family, financial advice, as well as constructive

criticisms on ways to improve my hosting skills,” she shares.

Walang pagsidlan ang tuwa’t ligaya na aking nadarama sa karangalan na maging bahagi ng palatuntunang ito ,” reveals Emil.

“Salamat sa Diyos, salamat sa GMA, salamat sa suporta ng pamilya at siyempre, salamat sa inyong tumatangkilik sa palatuntunang ito.”

Atienza also praised his co-hosts for their hard work. “Patty is funny and humble yet truly a beautiful woman inside and out. She has stayed humble despite all her successes. Emil on the other hand was everything I expected plus more! So much commitment to his craft and so much faith in God. Truly a respectable human being.”

As it begins a new chapter, Dapat Alam Mo! continues with its brand of programming that has captured today’s audience.

“More out-of-the-box stories that are so well produced and delivered,” says Atienza.

“Viewers can expect more interesting and fun segments,” adds Tumulak.

“More public service. Mas malalim na expose at mabilis na pagtugon sa hinaing ng mga kababayan nating nagtitiwala sa programa,” shares Sumangil.

Dapat Alam Mo! airs on weekdays at 5:30 p.m. on GTV. Viewers abroad can catch it via international channel GMA Life TV.

Top local online personalities join YouTube Fanfest in Singapore

YOUTUBE Fanfest returns to the live stage this year at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore showcasing the diversity of the creator community with Filipino celebrity AC Bonifacio, and digital personalities Ranz, Niana, and Natalia Guerrero joining the show that will stream live globally on November 11.

YouTube Fanfest (YTFF) has been showcasing the diversity of the creator community, with regional and in-country events across APAC since its inaugural show in Singapore back in 2013.

This year, the event will be celebrating the growth and success of YTFF, and showcasing its new wave of creator and artist talents that are taking them into the next ten years.

The show is being held in partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board, Marina Bay Sands, and Singapore Airlines.

Joining AC, Ranz, Niana, and Natalia (PH) are CarryMinati, Noor Chahal, Be YouNick (IN), Nihongo Mantappu, StarBe, Ricis Official, & Atta Halilintar (ID), Bill-

lie (KR), Travis Japan (Johnny's Jr. Channel), RAB リアルアキバボ—イズ (Real Akiba Boyz), and Akanekikaku (アカネ キカク) [Tomioka Dance Club] (JP) with a high energy entertainment-focused showcase from top channels across the region.

The show will feature hosts like Prajakta Koli aka MostlySane (IN), Georgia Productions (AU), and Annette Lee (SG).

There will also be musical performances and live appearances from some of Singapore's top creators—on stage at YTFF for the first time.

Creators across multiple verticals, including gaming, beauty, food, and comedy, will be sharing their content at Fanfest 10 with a series of fun cross-market collaborations as we bring the best together from all over APAC— showcasing the diversity of verticals, languages, and channels in challenges, glow ups, fun food mash-ups, and comedy skits from our new and established YTFF stars.

The event kicks off with a red carpet experience at the Event Plaza in Marina Bay Sands at 5:30 p.m. where fans will get to see our creators and artists up close

and personal as they do live interviews with the hosts before the live show kicks off. Fanfest 10 is a fully vaccinated event. All registered fans may be required to provide proof of their COVID-19 vaccination before entering the event space. The show and red carpet will be livestreamed on the YouTube Fanfest channel from 5:30 p.m.

Nicole Laurel Asensio latest single explores the quintessential question, ‘Bakit masarap ang bawal?’

‘Bones and All’ stars Taylor Russell (left) and Timothée Chalamet

Digital personalities Ranz (center), Niana (left), and Natalia Guerrero

Filipino celebrity AC Bonifacio

Atienza sees his time on the show as new and exciting Sumangil feels grateful for the success

‘Dapat Alam Mo!’ received over the past year

Tumulak shares that she learned a lot on the show, especially about her co-hosts

‘Dapat Alam Mo!’ hosts (from le ) Emil Sumangil, Kim Atienza, and Patricia Tumulak

Composting: The Future in Pet Burial

By Mariana Burgos

PETS are not just considered the owners' "owned creatures" in the eyes of many pet owners. When the time comes for these creatures to die away from old age, disease, or accidents, owners find it difficult to simply accept their passing because they are treated more like family members than pets.

For pet owners who cherish their animals as family members, having to say goodbye to a beloved pet is never an easy thing. When a child owns a pet, they typically ask their parents or guardians to take care of it when the creature dies. With adults, a lot of people would have to handle it on their own. It is equally challenging to achieve as when a human member of your family passes away.

As a kid, I was brought up to “bury my own” (pet). I found that the chore got a little simpler to handle as I grew older. It is possible that I have become accustomed to it because I have been doing it myself for so long. To do so, though, still hurts. Because of this, it would undoubtedly be of great aid to a pet owner if he had an alterna tive that was readily available and allowed him to receive a lot of help in organizing the burial.

In the old days, people in the Philippines bur ied their deceased pets simply in their backyard. They dig a hole large and deep enough for the carcass and, then, once they have put the body in, they cover it back up with the dirt they dug out of it. That is all there is to it. It is simple, not to mention, economical, too. But it is too painful for the (loving) owners and that is what makes it difficult to do so. But also, to those who cannot really dig well, it is a genuinely a big problem. Well, nowadays, one has other options. According to Enn Santos in her article, "What are your options when your fur baby dies? Here's where you can have them cremated or buried" (14 July 2021), there are two options available in the country. The most common is pet cremation. The other option is simply pet burial, as is, in pet cemeteries. But other people will do the burying for you. You, the owner, will be able to grieve your loss properly and rest well afterwards. Not too many options there, I must say.

In other countries, mainly, the US and Europe, “composting” is another option offered. And it is the most environment-friendly of all the options there are. Sarah Berman tells of a farm in the US that wants to compost other people's dead pets. In her article, "This Farm Wants to Compost Your Dead Pets" (5 October 2017), she says Rooted Pets is a project proposed and created by Paul Tschetter and his partner at a veterinary con

ference held on one weekend in Tacoma. This project offers the option to compost pet owners' dead pets and returns the soil to owners after six-to-eight weeks.

The Bellevue-based company of Paul Tschet ter and his partner composts your pet for eight weeks, converting the leftovers into nutrientrich organic soil. Compared to burying an animal in the backyard, it is entirely legal and actually more environmentally friendly according to Eric Wilkinson in his article, "Composting your pet?

Yes, it's a thing" (19 March 2018). He says Tschet ter claims that “backyard options” are suscep tible to animal scavenging and the spread of disease. And that their system is impervious to such threats. Tschetter says it sustains tempera tures exceeding EPA guidelines, and it stabilizes the consequent compost.

One pet owner's positive testimonial of the result of Tschetter's system is featured in Wilkin son's article. Pet owner Laura MacDonald had her furry best friend of 16 years, Koda, turned into compost. Laura plans to use Koda (com post) to plant a tree. She told Wilkins she gets

comfort in planting a tree with Koda's compost, caring for it, watching it grow, and seeing other animals benefit from it. She says she is able to move on with the thought.

Meanwhile, E.B. Bartels, with her article, "Ashes to Ashes, Pet to Plant--- Composting is a surpris ingly tender thing to do with your dead pet." (2 August 2022), features Melissa Naranjo Hoyos and Daniel Correa Jaramillo, co-founders of the start-up Pleia, located outside of Medellin, Co lombia, worked together on a burial alternative that was biosecure, energy-efficient, and safe for the environment (no atmospheric emissions and no risk of pathogens). As a result of studying the natural process of a body decomposing after death, they developed a method for making organic compost from pet corpses.

Bartel says that the pair's method was a result of their thesis that won the prize for ex cellence from their university. The two insisted that it should not just be “stored in a library” but taken into the real world. Bartel says that when Pleia originally began, Naranjo Hoyos and Correa Jaramillo composted 100 pets in total, starting with animals owned by their friends and family. Today, they can compost up to 600 animals per month from all across the nation. When a pet is composted, the owner has two options: either they want the soil returned to them in a pot with the plant of their choice, a plant specifically created in the composted soil, or they want the dirt added to Pleia's garden, much like they may want to bury their pet in a cemetery.

Bartel shows that according to studies on hu man burials, varnish from coffins can frequently contaminate the soil and chemicals like formal dehyde can damage groundwater. Composting has also become a profitable business model and helps dissipate the concentration of eutha nasia solutions better than merely burying. None of those things is a problem with composting, which also uses less fuel than cremation and oc cupies less space over the long term than burial.

Personally speaking, I learned of this compost ing alternative some years back even with dead humans. And I have been advocating for it ever since. I believe this is what everyone should strive to head for in terms of development with disposing of our dead because it is what we should all be in the end. Simply said, compost ing is carrying out what nature intended, i.e., converting one sort of life into another.

About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a free lance artist. She is a solo parent for 15 years now because she is the wife of a desaparecido. She and her daughter are animal lovers and are active in advocating not only human rights but the rights of animals as well.

Pawsbook

WE HAVE been encountering posts on dogs, cats, and other animals on Face book that are eye-openers, or inspir ing, or enlightening, or educational, or can make one feel good during a stressful day, or make one encouraged to help the poor souls among us.

Sunday Pets would like to share these notable posts of netizens through this space called Pawsbook.

For you my dear cat (Nino)

You lived your nine lives here with me my loyal, loving friend, then God took you up to Paradise to live life number ten.

I’ll bet you’re peacefully lying upon an angel’s lap.

Purring there, without a care having a heavenly nap.

I’ll miss you for a little while, but our friendship will not end. Time will pass, and then at last you’ll be on my lap again. Bye for now .

Dear Mom and Dad, I died today. You got tired of me and took me to the shelter. They were overcrowded and I drew an unlucky number. I am in a black plastic bag in a landfill now. Some other puppy will get the barely used leash you left. My collar was dirty and too small, but the lady took it off before she sent me to the Rainbow Bridge .

Would I still be at home if I hadn't chewed your shoe? I didn't know what it was, but it was leather, and it was on the floor. I was just playing. You forgot to get puppy toys.

Would I still be at home if I had been housebroken? Rubbing my nose in what I did only made me ashamed that I had to go at all. There are books and obedience teachers that would have taught you how to teach me to go to the door.

Would I still be at home if I hadn't brought fleas into the house? Without anti-flea medicine, I couldn't get them off of me after you left me in the yard for days.

Would I still be at home if I hadn't barked? I was only saying, "I'm scared, I'm lonely, I'm here, I'm here! I want to be your best friend."

Would I still be at home if I had made you happy? Hitting me didn't make me learn how.

Would I still be at home if you had taken the time to care for me and to teach manners to me? You didn't pay attention to me after the first week or so, but I spent all my time waiting for you to love me.

I died today.

Compiled by Desiree Carlos

This was posted by Winnie Bisnar in Faacebook:

This was posted by Diya Saha in Ani mal Lovers Supporters in Facebook:

Headstones

taken from

Hands carry a handful of compost

with

plant sprouting from it.

Photo taken from Depositphotos)

Nino, the beloved cat of Winnie Bisnar.