Manila Standard - 2022 November 13 - Sunday

Mr. Marcos seeks stronger ties with China and Japan

Aside

Premier Li said he believes there should be continued growth of China-Philippines relations, underscoring that what the two countries have in common “far outweighs” their differenc es, a reference to the maritime dispute in the South China Sea.

Mr. Marcos said he “absolutely” agrees with Li’s position.

“And I thank you for remember ing my father and his initiative to come to China and it was he after all who made Philippines and China

Prioritize food security—PBBM

Urges ASEAN

n By VINCE LOPEZ AND MARICEL CRUZ

‘Tap India for cheaper medicines, vaccines’

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sat urday rallied the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to work closely with India to secure cheaper medicines and vaccines.

In his intervention during the 19th ASE AN-India Summit in Cambodia, Mr. Marcos said that as the region emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is a matter of great urgency for governments to ensure better access to health services.

“ASEAN friends, let us not miss the opportunity of having the ‘pharmacy of the world’ as our close neighbor and dialogue partner.

The high cost of life-saving medicines and vaccines are barriers to a healthy popula tion,” he said.

“Let us work closely with India in ensur ing that our region has access to a sufficient volume of affordable, high-quality medi cines and vaccines,” Mr. Marcos added.

In a separate statement during the 2nd ASEAN-Australia Summit, Mr. Marcos also called for stronger collaboration in combat ing transnational crimes.

Mr. Marcos expressed gratitude to Can

berra for supporting the Bohol Trafficking in Persons (TIP) work plan, which aims to implement the ASEAN Convention on TIP, Especially Women and Children.

“This partnership will strengthen our regional responses and keep us in step with the constantly evolving schemes of transna tional criminals and traffickers,” he said.

The Philippine leader also suggest ed a deepening engagement with India, represented by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, on moving toward a blue econ omy, citing New Delhi’s continued support for the work of the ASEAN Center for Biodiversity

“We cannot move toward a blue economy if our oceans cannot support sustainable vibrant life,” the President said.

Mr. Marcos also took the opportunity to extend his condolences to the families of the victims of a pedestrian suspension bridge that collapsed in India’s western state of Gujarat.

“At the outset, allow me to add our

Remulla to Bantag: Just face murder raps ‘like a man’

“Just face the charges like a man,” Remulla said, adding that he would give no further com ment on Bantag’s allegations.

Bantag on Friday accused Remulla of two things: that he was into drugs and may even have a hand in the drug case of his own son, and that he

which

The

Journalist Beth Day Romulo dies at 98

VETERAN journalist and author Beth Day Romulo has died at the age of 98 on Friday, her granddaughter announced on Facebook.

Romulo

On its website, the

wrote: “In

lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Carlos P. Romulo Foundation for Peace and Development (text +63 917 815 9826 for information). Messages of condolence may be sent to romulocenter@ gmail.com.”

Romulo was born in Indiana, United States, on May 25, 1924. She was a former associate editor of

almost immediately scrapped.

"To

The

JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla just had a one sentence retort to multitude of accusations hurled against him by suspended prisons chief Gerald Bantag, who has been tagged as the mastermind in the murder of broadcaster Percival “Percy Lapid” Mabasa.

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the Philippines will work closely with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its dialog partners in ensuring food security as he pushed for the expansion of the bloc’s rice reserve to include other staple commodities.

ICONIC BELEN. Araneta City holds its ceremonial lighting of a life-sized ‘belen’ located at Gen. Macarthur Ave. in Cubao, Quezon City late Friday evening. Manny Palmero

TWITTER moved to curb fake accounts that have proliferated since Elon Musk's takeover, suspending sign-ups for a new paid checkmark system and reinstating a gray "official" badge on some accounts.

The U-turn was the latest of a string of chaotic developments at the social network,

has lurched back and forth on the question of account verification since Musk's $44 billion buyout late last month.

@TwitterSupport account tweeted early Friday that a gray check mark indicat ing an "official" account was coming back, only days after it was introduced – then

combat impersonation, we've added an 'Official' label to some accounts," the profile announced.

rollout of the label appeared incon sistent: it appeared briefly then disappeared

“Attaining food self-sufficiency and secu rity by seeking innovative solutions through adoption of new technologies and enhanced connectivity to national, regional and global value supply chains -- this must be one of our utmost priorities in the region,” Marcos said in his intervention during the 25th ASE AN Plus Three Summit in Phnom Penh on Saturday.

ASEAN MEETINGS. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. speaks with Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang during the ASEAN-China Summit as part of the 40th and 41st Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summits in Phnom Penh on November 11, 2022. Inset photo shows President Marcos Jr. (3rd from left), accompanied by Speaker Martin Romualdez (2nd from left), exchanging pleasantries with Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah (2nd from right) during a bilateral meeting Saturday afternoon. AFP, Ver Noveno

is the widow of former Foreign Affairs Secretary and United Nations Gen eral Assembly President Carlos Romulo. Memorial services will be announced soon by the Carlos P. Romulo Foundation.

Foundation

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. vowed to strengthen bilateral relations with China and Japan during his talks with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the sidelines of the ASEAN-Plus Three (APT) Summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on Saturday.

from the pull-aside discussions, Mr. Marcos also held bilateral meetings with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla

Beth Day Romulo

President Marcos Jr. on Saturday asked the United States to use its global clout to tame the rising fuel prices. ‘We appeal to the United States to use its global influence to help ease the current global plight of rising fuel prices that we all have to deal with,’ Mr. Marcos said.

DOLE warily looks at minimum wage hike with eye on inflation

THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is cautiously look ing at petitions to increase the minimum wage rates in light of its po tential effects on inflation, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said on Saturday.

“We

“We

Organized labor, specifically the Partido Mang gagawa, pressed for a P100-across-the-board increase in minimum wage, saying the purchasing power of their income has diminished by at least P76 due to high prices of basic commodities.

Laguesma said DOLE’s regional directors, along

No roadblocks, diggings during holidays—MMDA

n By JOEL E. ZURBANO

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has given assurance that there would be no road diggings and excavation on major thoroughfares in the National Capital Region beginning on Monday.

MMDA acting chairman Romando Artes said the temporary suspension of all excavation activities beginning midnight of Nov. 14, 2022 up to midnight of Jan. 6, 2023 includes road reblocking works, pipe laying, road upgrading, and all other excavation activities.

The road works not covered by the moratorium are the following: Flagship projects of the government; bridge re pair and construction; Flood interceptor catchment project (box culvert); Asphalt overlay projects without reblocking works; Sidewalk improvement; Drain age improvement projects along the sidewalk and not occupying any part of the roadway; Footbridge projects; Emergency leak repair or breakage of water line by Manila Water and Maynilad Water Services; Project using trenchless or horizontal directional drilling method; New water service or electrical service connections; Road activities without excavation (traffic clearance only); Traffic signalization projects; and Meralco relocation works affecting major projects of the govern ment.

On Friday, the Department of Public Works and Highways conducted its last road reblocking works for the year.

with the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs), met on Thursday to discuss the latest developments that might necessitate another round of minimum wage adjustments.

Laguesma said the RTWPBs were looking at several factors pertinent to the workers’ demand, particularly the capacity of businesses to grant a wage increase, and the consumer price index.

Inflation hit 7.7 percent last month, reputedly the fastest in 14 years, driven by higher prices of food and non-alcoholic beverages during the month. In September, around 2.5 million Filipi

nos were unemployed.

The regional wage boards earlier this year approved an increase in the minimum wage in several regions, with the lowest in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) at P305, and the highest in Metro Manila with P570 as of October 2022.

Nonetheless, Laguesma said that apart from raising wages, the government can also extend subsidies to the minimum wage earners.

Laguesma has said the wage boards were under obligation to review the existing wage rates to “keep pace with whatever developments in the work sector.”

The DOLE has started to pitch the idea to the private sector regarding the issue. However, he noted that minimum wage adjustments could be implemented only once a year.

The last wage hikes were granted in 14 regions in June this year.

Paeng’s death toll rises to 160, with 29 missing

TROPICAL storm Paeng’s death toll has reached 160 people, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported on Saturday.

The NDRRMC clarified of this number, 132 deaths have been confirmed, while 28 were still being validat ed.

On the other hand, re ported missing persons also rose to 29, of which 19 were confirmed and 10 up for validation.

In the injury department, 146 were reported but only 108 of them have been confirmed.

The NDRRMC also said 1,357,807 families consist ing of 5,410,102 individuals were affected by Paeng in 17 regions, 74 provinces, 834 cities/municipalities, and 10,056 barangays.

The estimated cost of damage to infrastructure reached P5.43 billion, while agricultural loss es were placed at P6.39 billion.

Paeng first made land fall over Camarines Sur on October 29 then cut across Luzon mainland, triggering flooding and landslides in several areas.

It left the country on Oc tober 31, leaving in its wake 523 cities and municipali ties declared under a state of calamity, the NDRRMC said.

CDO solon backs PBBM’s call for code of conduct in SCS

n By MARICEL V. CRUZ

CAGAYAN

“A code of conduct is the way to go forward to peacefully and amicably resolve territorial disputes among coun tries in the region,” Rodriguez said.

The President made the call at the 25th

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-China summit on Friday in Cambodia.

The President said his proposed code of conduct (COC) would be “an example of how states manage their differences: through reason and through right.”

He said he welcomed the “progress on textual negotiations on the COC this past year and hopefully an approved code in the very near future.”

]Rodriguez said he does not see any problem with ASEAN nations agreeing on

Solon hails BBM’s plan to purchase Chinese fertilizers

A PARTY-LIST lawmaker on Saturday cited the plan of President Marcos to sign a memorandum of agreement for the initial importation of 150,000 metric tons of fertilizer from China.

Rep. Robert Nazal of The MAGSASAKA party-list group said the Marcos administration’s plan to import fertilizers next year will definitely boost local food production and help stabilize domestic food prices.

“The move spells good news for farmers as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. intends to distribute some of these fertilizers to them for free,” Nazal said in a statement.

“This is indeed a step in the right direction towards achieving food security while supporting our farmers and fight ing rising food prices during this difficult period,” Nazal said.

the rules of conduct and resolving their conflicting territorial claims bilaterally and even multilaterally.

“The problem is with China, which has been the aggressor all these years. ASEAN members should collectively make a plea for China to respect and abide by the planned code of conduct,” he said.

Rodriguez said he could not understand why China has been claiming a large part of the 200-mile exclusive eco nomic zone (EEZ) which the Philippines is entitled to under the United Nations

Convention on the Law of the Sea.

“They want our EEZ, from north in Panatag Shoal off Pangasinan and Zambales, to south in Ayungin Shoal in Palawan. Every now and then, they harass our fishermen and the platoon of Filipino soldiers heroically guarding our country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the lonely and dangerous seas off Palawan,” he added.

The Mindanao lawmaker pointed out that Beijing is even in conflict with Indo nesia, which is farther south.

Taguig gov’t reopens satellite office in Bonifacio Global City

THE Taguig City government has announced the reopening of its satellite office at the Bonifacio Global City (BGC) to make its services more accessible, hassle-free, and convenient.

Beginning Monday (Nov. 14), the Taguig Satellite Office situated at the 9th floor, SM Aura Tower (cor. 26th St., McKinley Parkway, Fort Bonifacio) will again be home to six local and two national offices.

Documents and permits may be secured from the City Assessor’s Office, Business Permits and Licensing Office, Local Build

ing Office, City Planning and Development Office, and City Treasurer’s Office.

Senior citizen identification cards may be secured from the Office of the Senior Citizen Affairs. Those from Barangays Fort Bonifacio, Pinagsama, or Western Bicutan, may get their barangay business clearances from the satellite office.

On the other hand, the Bureau of Fire Protection will issue fire safety inspec tion certificates, while the Department of Trade and Industry will issue DTI and barangay micro business enterprise certificates. Joel E. Zurbano

DENR bares programs, policy directions

THE

2023

“We

In a statement on Saturday, Environ ment Secretary Maria

Loyzaga declared that “the DENR is committed to ensuring that our programs and policies are evidence-informed based on stake holder consultation, and bolstered by appropriate current, emerging and practical technologies.”

Loyzaga earlier disclosed the agency’s programs in her presentation during a Senate panel hearing on the proposed

The DENR sought a P23.041-billion budget for next year, which Loyzaga said would support the agency’s directions and priorities toward resilient and sustainable development.

Loyzaga said the DENR will continue to perform its duty of protecting the country’s environment and natural resources, which provide ecosystem ser vices to the people. Maricel V. Cruz

He said the distribution of free fertilizers to farmers is laudable given the importance of fertilizers in food production.

“Fertilizers are added to crops in order to produce enough food to feed the population,” Nazal said.

“Fertilizers provide crops with nutri ents, which allow crops to grow bigger, faster, and to produce more food,” he added.

The planned procurement of 150,000 metric tons of fertilizer from China would be done through the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC), an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Marcos has instructed the Department of Agriculture (DA), the DTI, and the PTIC to find ways to support farmers and lower soaring food prices. Maricel V. Cruz

WOODEN ANGEL. Wood sculptor Peter Cayanan of Bacolor, Pampanga puts the finishing touches on his wooden angel which fetches P50,000, give or take.

Manny Marcelo

de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez on Saturday backed the call of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for a code of conduct in the West Philippine Sea and in the entire South China Sea.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has bared its major thrusts and policy directions on environmental protection and nat ural resource conservation under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Antonia

DENR budget last October 11.

are committed to integrating scientific, technological, and traditional knowledge and expertise and innovation into the DENR’s strategies, policies, and processes,” Loyzaga told members of the Subcommittee of the Senate Committee on Finance.

KEEPING TRIBAL HERITAGE ALIVE. Nilo Lazatiro, a tour guide of the Department of Tourism office in Northern Mindanao, shows off a Christmas lantern made of indigenous mats woven by the Tagoloanen women of Malaybalay City, Bukidnon who are committed to revive their vanishing tribal culture. Danny Pata

ASEAN SUMMIT. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (3rd from right) briefs his Cabinet officials and Speaker Martin Romualdez (center) before the start of the ASEAN-Republic of Korea Summit Friday afternoon at Sokha Hotel in Phnom Penh Cambodia.  With the President are (from left to right) Office of the Press Secretary officer-in-charge Undersecretary Cheloy Garafil, Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo Pascual, Foreign Affairs Sec. Enrique Manalo, Presidential Management Staff chief Secretary Zenaida Angping, and Social Welfare and Development Secretary Erwin Tulfo. Ver Noveno

Zelensky recovers strategic city as US hails ‘extraordinary’ win

U KRAINIAN Pres ident Volodymyr

Zelensky declared Kherson “ours” af ter Russia withdrew troops from the city, which the US hailed Saturday as an “ex traordinary victory.”

“We are winning battles on the ground. But the war continues,” foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said after Ukraine’s triumphant recovery of Kherson – the only regional capital Moscow had captured in the nine months since Russia’s invasion.

In the port city located on the Black Sea, the Ukrainian national anthem rang out in the central Kherson square as a small crowd sang along while huddled around a bonfire, a video published by Ukraine’s parliament on social media showed.

“Special units are already in the city,” Zelensky wrote on Telegram, posting footage in which Ukrainian troops appeared to gather with residents.

About 50 kilometres (30 miles) from Kherson, Andriy Zholob, a commander of a medical unit, said they had greeted by smiling faces and given “embroidered towels which we display on our vehicles.”

“We see children running to meet us and greeting us,” Zholob told AFP.

In nearby Mykolaiv province, which Russian forces have failed to capture despite months of attacks, governor Vitaliy Kim said the entire region, save for

As Senate control teeters, Trump readies 2024 bid

PRESIDENT Joe Biden’s Democrats edged closer to retaining control of the US Senate on Friday, as Donald Trump prepared to declare his bid for the White House in 2024.

Democratic Senator Mark Kelly won re-election in Arizona, three television net works announced. His victory gives Demo crats 49 Senate seats, one short of securing a majority, with Nevada still counting votes and Georgia’s contest headed to a Decem ber 6 runoff.

If the two parties split the remaining two seats, the Democrats retain control of the Senate because Vice President Kamala Harris will cast the tie-breaking vote.

Blake Masters, the Republican rival to Kelly, did not immediately concede defeat in Arizona, and late Friday Trump posted on his social media account that some voting machines in Arizona didn’t work and

PRIORITIZE...

“The Phil ippines reaffirms our commitment to actively engage in the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve or APTERR. APTERR is extremely beneficial to our countries. We are vulnerable to many hazards and natural calamities due to topography and geographic location,” the President added.

To enhance food security, the Phil ippine leader suggested diversifying APTERR by adding other commodities and staple food to the reserve.

At the same time, the chief executive recommended the exploration of smart agriculture and conduct of capacity-build ing programs for ASEAN members as well as continuing the conduct of fora that serve as platforms to discuss regional con cerns on agriculture and food security.

Mr. Marcos, who is the concurrent Agriculture Secretary, said ASEAN’s New Work Plan 2023-2027 will serve as the regional bloc’s guide in the next five years.

The plan will tackle various areas such as public health, food security, financial cooperation, and digital economy partic ularly as the region moves towards the post-pandemic recovery.

During the ASEAN-Australia Summit, Mr. Marcos said the Philippines wel comes engagement with Australia on the implementation of the Strategic Plan for ASEAN Cooperation in Food, Agricul ture and Forestry for 20016-2025.

“Food-resilience and food self-suf ficiency are two of our very basic and foremost priorities in the Philippines. We need to protect the region and our countries from shocks on the global food

the result is “a scam and voter fraud... Do elections over again!”

Trump will announce next week that he is taking another shot at the presidency with a White House run in 2024, his long time advisor Jason Miller said Friday.

The divisive former president, who will be 78 when the next election is held, has been hinting at another presidential run while campaigning for Republican candidates ahead of this week’s midterm elections, and said he will make a “very big announcement” on Tuesday.

“President Trump is going to announce on Tuesday that he is running for pres ident,” Miller told former Trump aide Steve Bannon on his popular “War Room” podcast.

“It’s gonna be a very professional, very buttoned-up announcement,” he added. AFP

value chain, as well as against the adverse effects of climate change,” he said.

Mr. Marcos, during the ASEAN-India Summit, also expressed intent to work with India toward the implementation of the “ASEAN Multi-sectoral Framework on Climate Change: Agriculture and Forestry contributing to Food Security and Sus tainable Development Goals,” in an effort to address the issue on fluctuations in rice and fertilizer supply and prices.

Meanwhile, World Economic Forum (WEF) Founder and Executive Chairman Klaus Schwab yesterday invited Mr. Mar cos to the WEF in Davos, Switzerland on January 16-20, 2023.

Schwab told Mr. Marcos his attendance to the WEF serves as a good opportunity to let the global business community know about the dynamism and positive devel opments happening in the Philippines in a bid to attract more investors.

Speaker Martin Romualdez joined the meeting with Schwab.

“It might be a good time to herald to the whole world that the Philippines, with a very new and very popular leader, and with very competent and experienced economic managers is open for business,” Romualdez said after the meeting.

‘TAP... condolences on behalf of the Fili pino people for the tragic loss of life and injury from the bridge collapse that you recently suffered. We pray for the injured to return rapidly to good health,” the President said.

At least 135 people died when a pedestri an suspension bridge gave way in the Indian town of Morbi on October 30.

According to local officials, most of those who had died were women, children or elderly.

the Kinburn cape in the south, had been returned to Ukrainian control.

“Now it’s official: the entire Mykolaiv region (except Kinburn) has been liberated,” Kim wrote on Telegram. The US hailed Ukraine’s “ex traordinary victory” in recaptur ing Kherson from the Russians on Saturday.

“It’s a big moment and it’s due to the incredible tenacity and skill of the Ukrainians, backed by the relentless and united support of the United States and our allies,” US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said while travelling to Cambodia with President Joe Biden for a regional summit.

But Kuleba – attending the same summit – warned that Kyiv still sees “Russia mobilizing more conscripts and bringing more weapons to Ukraine.”

“I understand that everyone wants this war to end as soon as possible,” he

said during a meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in which he called for the Western world’s continued support.

“We are definitely the ones who want that more than anyone else.”

In Kherson, Kyiv’s forces recon nected the local television network to Ukrainian broadcasters after local me dia reported that retreating Russian forces blew up the television tower and energy facilities, leaving the city without power.

Kyiv’s defense ministry said earlier Friday that Kherson “is returning to Ukrainian control and units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine are entering the city”.

Ukrainian artillery teams had clear views of Russia’s routes of retreat and warned: “Any attempts to oppose the Armed Forces of Ukraine will be stopped.” AFP

UN chief tells Myanmar junta to get democracy ‘back on track’

UN

Myanmar has spiralled into bloody con flict since the military ousted Aung San Suu Kyi’s civilian government in February last year, with thousands killed.

The escalating crisis dominated a summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASE AN) regional bloc, which has led so far fruitless diplomatic efforts to end the bloodshed.

“The situation in Myanmar is an unend ing nightmare for the people and a threat to peace and security across the region,” Guterres told reporters.

“I urge the authorities of Myanmar to lis ten to their people, release political prisoners and get the democratic transition back on track immediately. That is the only way to stability and peace.”

After meeting ASEAN leaders, Guterres said it was vital that a peace plan agreed with the junta – but so far not enforced – came into effect.

“Indiscriminate attacks on civilians are horrendous and heartbreaking,” he said.

In a reminder of the daily horrors faced by the Myanmar people, residents and media on Friday accused the junta of burning hous es and killing at least five civilians in a raid on a village in western Rakhine state. AFP

INBRIEF

Bahrain heads to polls with no opposition

Biden to press Xi on Nokor in G20 talks

MR.... family,” Mr. Marcos said, refer ring to his father’s 1975 visit to Beijing.

“So I look forward to discussing all of these when I come to visit in January,” the President said.

Mr. Marcos’ state visit to China will take place from Jan. 3 to 5 or 6, 2023, the Office of the Press Secretary said.

The OPS announcement superseded an earlier statement by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin that the President would make a state visit to Japan ahead of a simi lar visit to China.

Mr. Marcos on Friday pushed for the ear ly conclusion of a Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea based on international law, which he said should be an example of how states manage their differences.

At the 25th ASEAN-China Summit, Pres ident Marcos said the immediate conclusion of the COC becomes more relevant as nations mark 40 years of the United Nations Conven tion on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and 20 years of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.

“It shall be an example of how states manage their differences: through reason and through right,” Marcos said, adding that he welcomed progress on the negoti ations over the text of the COC, which he said he hoped would be approved “in the very near future.”

Meanwhile, Japanese Prime Minister Kishida said he was pleased to have a very rich and thorough conversation back in September with President Marcos.

REMULLA... was using his position as Justice chief to prepare for the 2025 elections.

He also insinuated that Remulla wanted to “control the drug lords.”

DOJ spokesperson Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano earlier said Bantag’s ac cusations may have been prompted by a “misguided sense of betrayal.”

“The Department of Justice understands the predicament of DG Bantag.

His words and actions, no matter how personal and inappropriate, come from a misguided sense of betrayal. (But) there is only one issue at hand, the related murders of Percy Lapid and Jun Villamor. Let us not muddle the issue, let us not clutch at straws,” Clavano said.

The DOJ, in a separate statement, cited the evidence it gathered, including sworn state ments of inmates, ballistics analysis, CCTV footage, and money trail, among others.

“There is a right place and time to formally release the results of our investi gation, but for now we have charged two respondents. They can answer this through a counter-affidavit,” the DOJ said.

A three-person prosecution panel has been formed to handle the murder cases filed against those implicated in the murder of Mabasa, Prosecutor General Benedicto Malcontento said.

TWITTER... from the network's own account, @Twitter.

By Friday morning, the firm had also dis abled sign-ups for Twitter Blue, the feature touted by free-speech proponent Musk as bringing "power to the people" by offering ordinary users a verified blue tick– until then reserved for prominent accounts – for

UN, Russia grain

talks

end sans breakthrough

$8 per month.

An internal memo for Twitter staff, obtained by US media including The Washington Post, confirmed the feature had been temporarily disabled to "help address impersonation issues."

In introducing the paid blue-check verification system, Musk had warned that Twitter would suspend fake accounts not clearly marked as parody.

But accounts impersonating public figures and businesses had continued to spread – with NBA star LeBron James and former British prime minister Tony Blair among those targeted.

US drugmaker Eli Lilly was forced to issue an apology Thursday after a fake account – stamped with a purchased blue tick – tweeted that insulin was to be made available for free.

The fake account was removed, and the company put out a statement of apology.

There are steps people can take to de termine whether a Twitter account with a blue checkmark is authentic, including checking the account's handle, creation date and how many followers it has – and noting who is following it. AFP

JOURNALIST... Manila Bulle tin and wrote several books, including Inside the Palace: The Rise and Fall of Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos and The Writer, the Lover and the Diplomat, which tells her love story with her hus band that was co-authored with veteran journalist David Wyatt.

“I’m sad to announce the passing of a remarkable woman: Beth Day Romulo. She was 88-years-old when we teamed up to co-write her life story,” Wyatt wrote on his Facebook page.

DANGEROUS PASSAGE.

A migrant waits to be processed by the border patrol after crossing the US-Mexico border, taken from Tijuana, Baja California state, Mexico on November 11, 2022. AFP

US PRESIDENT Joe Biden landed in Asia on Saturday vowing to urge Chinese leader Xi Jinping to rein in North Korea when they hold their first face-to-face meeting at next week’s G20 summit. Biden touched down in Phnom Penh for meetings with Southeast Asian leaders ahead of his encounter with his Chinese counterpart on Monday in Bali. The meeting between the two super powers comes after a record-breaking spate of missile tests by North Korea sent fears soaring that the reclusive state would soon conduct its seventh nuclear test. AFP

UNITED Nations chiefs held talks with Russian officials Friday on the Black Sea agreements on exporting grain and fertilizers, eight days before one of the deals is set to expire.

The discussions took place behind closed doors at the UN Palais des Nations headquarters in Geneva and wrapped up mid-afternoon.

“The discussions updated on progress made in facilitating the unimpeded export of food and fertilisers, including ammonia, originating from the Russian Federation to global markets,” said a UN statement. AFP

FromtheFRONTPAGE

CITY OF LOVE. A couple kisses at sunset near The Eiffel Tower in Paris. AFP

CHIEF Antonio Guterres on Saturday urged the Myanmar junta to immediately return to democracy, saying it was the only way to stop the “unending nightmare” en gulfing the country.

BAHRAINIS head to the polls Saturday but despite a record number of people vying for seats, a ban on opposition can didates means it will bring no meaning ful change, rights groups said.

More than 330 candidates, including a record 73 women, are competing to join the 40-seat council of representa tives – the lower house of parliament that advises King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa, who has ruled since his father died in March 1999. This is up from the 293 people – in cluding 41 women – that ran for parlia ment in the last election in 2018. AFP

Bantag and BuCor Deputy Security Officer Ricardo Zulueta were slapped with murder raps for the deaths of Mabasa and the alleged middleman in the hit job, National Bilibid Prison inmate Cristito “Jun Villamor” Palaña.

Spanish hotelier promotes wellness in PH tourism

AS TRAVEL restrictions relax and borders have reopened, tourists are looking to revisit old favorites while seeking out new experiences that can help them unwind and decompress from the stress caused by the pandemic.

The longing for wide open spaces surrounded by the grandeur of nature have made Anya Hospitality Group properties—Anya Resort Tagaytay and Club Punta Fuego—popular with families who want to spend quality time together amid luxe accommodations that offer exceptional service.

Other brands under the AHG portfolio are Amara Residences, Terrazas de Punta Fuego and Go Hotels branches along Airport Road, Timog, Ermita

and North Edsa, Brio De Agoho and the newly-launched Niyama Wellness concept.

Juan Roca, managing director of AHG, ensures the level of quality among these properties to make sure that each visit brings a memorable travel experience. His sheer passion for hospitality was nurtured from more than 25 years of experience in the industry in properties across Asia, the Caribbean and Europe.

HOSPITALITY LEADER

Roca, who hails from Mallorca, Spain, was a born hotelier. “My family used to own resorts in Mallorca and Ibiza. I started to work in the family business when I was 16. When I turned 26, I moved to the Dominican Republic because I wanted to learn different things. My mom used to work in the tourism industry in an airline company, and there was a time I when I wanted to become a pilot,” he said.

He pursued a Bachelor Degree in Tourism and Business Administration and holds a Master Certificate in

Hospitality Management from Cornell University.

He was one of the AHG pioneers when Fuego Hotels was being set up in 2004, and he has since worked in other prop erties around the world, including the Canary Islands, the Caribbean, Jamaica, Mexico and the Dominican Republic.

He rejoined the Anya Hospitality Group in 2019 upon the invitation of Santi Elizalde. “It’s an honor to be working with Mr. Elizalde and Mr. Roxas to handle the hospitality arm of Roxaco Land and developments projected for the next years. Roxaco Land is more known for real estate, but they wanted to expand in the hospitality industry to be stronger. It opened my eyes for more opportunities,” he said.

As managing director, Roca is responsible for the operation and administration of AHG. “There’s a lot of work to be done in the corporate as well as in the property level. I monitor performance to achieve goals and make sure that the properties are profitable. That’s most important,” he said.

Ed-tech key to enhancing education quality in PH

EDUCATION technology holds the key to enhancing the quality of education in the Philippines especially now that many private schools continue to embrace blended learning.

Jack Brazel, regional director of Turnitin in Southeast Asia, says it is vital for countries like the Philippines to embrace the use of education technology to equip both facul ty and students with the tools they need to succeed. Turnitin is an American company known for its plagiarism detection service.

“There are some current obstacles to achieving this, however, relating to digital infrastructure and disparities in technology access that can be felt across the nation. The imperative, then, is to create the right learning infrastructure that is open to all in order to facilitate and empower teaching and learning practices that directly impact social and economic outcomes in the Phil ippines,” Brazel says in an email interview.

He says investing in digital solutions can help the Philippines’ education ecosystem to advance necessary skill-building and de velop the students’ readiness to play a key role in national digital transformation.

ED-TECH

This is where education technology comes in. Ed-tech supports existing academic foun dations while providing new opportunities to enhance the efficacy of teaching, learning and administrative functions, he says.

“Through edtech, institutions can reach unparalleled efficiencies compared to man ual methods, and enjoy flexibility to leverage the benefits of online and hybrid education delivery and cushion against learning dis ruption,” says Brazel.

He says the benefits of ed-tech touch multiple stakeholders in the sector. For ed ucators, it can relieve them of the burden of administrative tasks to focus their time on teaching instruction, assist in their delivery

of assessment and feedback and offer data insights to inform student interventions and shape course content. In turn, students can benefit from more frequent, quality interac tions with teaching staff, meaningful feed back that guides next steps in learning and boosts learner independence and avenues for authentic learning where students can harness their tech-savvy as digital natives and apply it to their learning goals, towards increased engagement.

“The possibilities for the integration of pedagogy and technology through edtech are numerous, and are already broadening the scope of curricula to deliver more rele vant learning opportunities and secure de sired outcomes,” he says.

Brazel says technology can help educa tors steer students away from academic misconduct. “Upholding academic integrity is an issue that needs urgent attention, and according to a study by Aguilar, empow ering teachers and students is crucial to combat rising rates of student misconduct . Academic integrity software is already be ing used to great effect to detect and deter potential plagiarism and unoriginal work, but more investment is needed here,” he says.

INVESTMENT

Brazel says the Philippine Constitution mandates that education receive the largest chunk of the national budget, which puts it a step ahead of economies where educational investment is of a lower budgetary priority.

“As developing nations are still striving to adapt methods for assessing and grading students to the realities of classrooms to day, other vital considerations emerge. Con centrating on edtech that integrates with existing systems and workflows will ensure a smoother learning experience that is not hindered by difficulties that disrupt the prog ress of educators and students,” he says.

He says digital infrastructure paired with

teaching that engages students and allows them to feel seen and heard is also crucial to offsetting any feelings of isolation that can occur in online spaces.

TURNITIN SOLUTIONS

Technology holds the key to ensuring that education delivery is agile and responsive to future developments and disruptions, and central to the growth of tech-driven industry in the Philippines, says Brazel.

“Of course, not all education technology is created equal, and care must be taken by institutions to adopt software that aligns with their strategic vision, pedagogical approach and operational workflows,” he says.

“By embarking on partnerships with in stitutions across the Philippines to nurture academic achievement and serve institu tional needs, Turnitin is committed to im proving learning outcomes that will support nation-building in the Philippines,” he says.

Brazel says that aside from offering a suite of product solutions that also strengthen dig ital literacy in schools and universities, Turni

tin is also supporting communities through knowledge-sharing in the form of regular we binars and providing a platform for education leaders and faculty to connect with their peers and trusted experts in the field.

He says Turnitin offers a comprehensive suite of academic integrity and assessment solutions, with integrity-focused products especially suited to Filipino institutions and their journey to address student misconduct accurately and consistently.

They include Turnitin Similarity which upholds academic integrity by allowing ed ucators to identify potential plagiarism or citation errors by cross-referencing student work against the world’s largest database of internet; Feedback Studio which pairs sim ilarity checking with grading and feedback features to support educators in delivering fast, robust and ongoing feedback to nurture student writing and avoid patterns of inad vertent or deliberate misconduct.

“We also have a tool designed for the student workflow. Draft Coach for Microsoft Word for the web and Google Docs lives where students write, and helps address citation errors, unintended plagiarism and grammar mistakes earlier in the writing pro cess, with instant feedback. With students empowered to identify and self-correct er rors prior to submission of their work, Draft Coach also helps reduce educators’ time spent grading,” he says.

Meanwhile, Turnitin Originality, the new standard in academic integrity, increases in stitutions’ capacity for academic misconduct investigation by combatting emerging threats to integrity such as contract cheating.

“We also offer iThenticate, which enables scholars to validate their research during the high-stakes manuscript drafting process, ensuring peace of mind that their work is original and accurately cited,” he says.

Roderick T. dela Cruz

P&G PH named among best companies to work for in Asia

PROCTER & Gamble Philippines, a leading consumer goods manufacturing company of trusted brands like Safeguard, Pampers, Downy, Vicks was recognized as one of the “Best Companies to Work for in Asia”, re flecting its best-in-class human resource practices, world-class employee engage ment and excellent workplace culture.

The recognition was awarded by HR Asia, the region’s most reputable and authorita tive publication for HR Professionals. HR Asia’s “Best Companies to Work for in Asia” awards is Asia’s largest program of its kind and is held annually across 12 markets throughout the region including Cambodia, China, Hong-Kong, India, Indonesia, Malay sia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Ko rea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

This year, the prestigious and sought-af ter HR award acknowledged P&G’s strong company culture, evident in its indus try-leading policies, inclusive programs and equitable practices which enable its employees equal opportunities to grow and succeed.

“We are honored and proud to be named among the Best Companies to Work for in Asia. This affirms our commitment to en suring our people are our top priority. It is

our employees that make P&G the kind of company that it is,” said P&G Philippines country HR leader Vince Dizon.

For over 87 years in the Philippines, P&G is among the few companies with a suc cessful “promote from within” culture and is known to highly invest in talent and lead ership development.

As the country’s top employer with about 2,000 employees, P&G distinguishes itself with meaningful careers leading billion-dollar global brands, inter national exposure and assignments and hands-on mentorship from the best busi ness leaders locally, regionally,and globally.

At the peak of the pandemic, P&G stepped up as a force for good and a force for growth, repurposing its manufacturing plant in Cabuyao, Laguna to produce medi cal-grade face masks for employees and for donation to frontliners and hotspot commu nities.

P&G provided job security and vaccines for its employees and their families, do nated millions worth of health and hygiene products, helped protect frontliners with PPEs, built health infrastructure in schools and hospitals, helped Red Cross vaccina tion efforts in far flung areas and continued economic investments in the country.

Samsonite RED launches new ‘BTS Butter’ theme collection

The collection features an eye-catching yel low and black combination—a key theme of the song “Butter.” The luggage, which embodies a melting butter design, comes with several cus tomization options for customers to embark on a personalization journey for extra uniqueness.

This marks the second meeting of Samsonite RED and BTS. Featuring 15 products including luggage, backpacks, crossbody bags, tote bags and travel accessories with designs of a ‘melting butter’ image, the collection is inspired by the energy of BTS’ song “Butter.”

BTS’ “Butter” spent 10 weeks atop the Bill board ‘Hot 100’ chart, and the song’s music video recently surpassed 810 million views on YouTube.

Each luggage is equipped with the printed graphic motifs wheel caps that represent the song “Butter” as well as a DIY customization kit that allows customers to interchange the com ponents including the logo plate, luggage handle and wheel caps.

The collection includes three different types of multi-purpose tote bags that are perfect for daily use.

The ‘Expandable Tote Bag’ that has an iconic “Butter” logo on the bottom can be transformed into a black mini tote bag by collapsing the bot tom with a center zip. The lightweight and porta ble ‘Packable Tote Bag’ available in yellow and black can be easily folded and stored in the inner pocket for daily convenience.

‘BTS Butter’ collaboration collection builds upon the message of hope as the world steps closer to the long-awaited reopening phase. The range of prod ucts will follow a global roll-out of releases throughout the second half of 2022, starting with the exclusive release in Korea and selected Asia countries/regions on Oct. 6, followed by the rest of Asia on Oct. 26 and North America in December 2022.

The collection features 15 products that inspired by BTS’ smash hit song ‘Butter’.

Phoenix empowers entrepreneurs

THIS year marks the celebration of Phoenix Petroleum Philippines Inc.’s two decades of operations and milestone as one of the big gest key players in empowering the lives and businesses of people.

At the height of the pandemic, Phoenix recognized Filipino leadership and resilien cy through its annual business conference and recognition program Digital Nation al Convention. For the last two editions, the event was done through an all-digital live-streaming platform gathering Phoe nix brand partners, dealers, distributors, suppliers and franchise owners across the country.

They say two is better than one, and this married couple Jackson and Beth Ong proves it.

Jackson and Beth own and operate Pros pernity Global Petroleum Inc., an authorized distributor of Phoenix Lubricants including engine oils, lubricants and greases in South NCR and Cavite. This year, they added Phoenix LPG to their wide range of services and products.

According to Beth, she and Jackson were looking for a business to build because they were about to get married, and had a daugh ter to raise. Fortunately, they were already eyeing a gasoline station when they passed C5 road.

There, the opportunity knocked after see ing a tarpaulin advertisement for a Phoenix Fuel Gas Station open for dealerships. When they found that it was no longer available, they received an alternative offer—the LPG business.

“So we looked into it, and we said okay, and that we can work on this. And the area that was open was in Mandaluyong,” Beth recalled.

After presenting an offer, the Ong cou ple got the Phoenix dealership. PGPI’s LPG business became operational in June 2020. Beth and Jackson’s business story really shows that they are a power couple. If they have any special mention, another person they would like to thank is Ryan Pascual, the senior account manager and Luzon lead in Phoenix.

PGPI WAREHOUSE

Two months after the grand opening, the Ongs met Ryan as one of their custom ers. Their acquaintance paved the way for the couple to have an additional business through a distributorship of lubricants. After thoroughly studying everything, they locked down the dealership for the said areas. As they say, the rest was history.

Because of their success in the Phoenix distributorship, Phoenix recognized them at the Digital NatCon as “Distributor of the Year for Lubricants Business.”

n RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor | email: extrastory2000@gmail.com

Prospernity Global Petroleum Inc. owners Jackson and Beth Ong

Turnitin regional director for Southeast Asia Jack Brazel

Procter & Gamble Philippines president and general manager Raffy Fajardo (left) and P&G vice president for Manila Global Business Services and Global External Reporting Vidya Srinivasan

SAMSONITE RED, a global contemporary casu al bag brand, is launching a new ‘BTS Butter’ collaboration collection that reflects the theme of BTS’ song “Butter,” along with the ‘Butter RECIPE’ campaign.

Managing director Juan Roca is responsible for the operation and administration of Anya Hospitality Group.

n By PETER ATENCIO

EIGHTEEN-YEAROLD Mary

Francine Padios is finally adjusting to the new rules that have been introduced in the sport of Pencak silat.

After giving the Philippines its first gold medal in the 31st Southeast Asian Games, joining more competitions has allowed her to be more proficient in the women’s seni (artistic or form) tunggal single.

“At first, I was having a hard time adjusting to the new rules in Southeast Asia. When I competed in the world meet, I have finally adjusted now that I’m familiar with the athletes and the format,” said Padios before she plunged into action on the first day of the 8th edition of the Women’s Martial Arts Festival at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila.

Padios seeks to refine her move ments in Pencak silat’s women’s seni (artistic or form) tunggal single, where she will have a three-minute session to showcase her form with her hands, the stick, and the knife.

New rules dictate that opposing ath letes are paired off to perform together. The athlete with the highest score, and will advance to the next round of the draw.

Before this format, performers will do their routines individually, with po dium finishers determined by the three highest scorers.

So far, Padios has added a bronze medal when she joined the World Championships in Malaysia last July.

Philsilat Sports Association presi dent Princess Jacel Kiram said they are looking to add new talents to the na tional pool in the coming months, and they prepare to join more international

meets in the coming months.

“The 8th Women’s Martial Arts Games is our last event for the year. Next year, there will be a lot of events to join,” said Kiram.

Kiram said they are excited with the pool of athletes that they have at the moment, and after winning 11 medals at the 6th Asian Pencak Silat Champion ships in India

Leading the team are brothers Alfau Jan and Almohaidib Abad, who won the gold medal in the men’s double artistic (Seni Ganda Putra) category.

Alfau Jan got another medal, a bronze, in the solo artistic (Seni Bebas Putra) category.

TOP WOMEN ATHLETES

Aside from Padios, among the top national athletes to look out for in the six-day sportsfest are World Taekwondo and Southeast Asian Games champi on Jocel Ninobla, 2021 IFMA World Muaythai Championships double gold medalist Islay Erika Bomogao, and 19th World Pencak Silat silver medalist Han nah Mae Ibutnande.

More than 600 women athletes,

HOBBIES & COLLECTIONS

Women martial arts athletes on spotlight

coaches, and officials attended the open ing rites of the 8th Women’s Martial Arts (WMA) Festival held at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum (RMC).

The historic RMC was all lit up and alive on what is the first big multi-sport event hosted by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) in the said facility after the onset of the pandemic., PSC Chairman Jose Emmanuel “Noli” Eala and Commissioner Olivia “Bong” Coo, were present to witness the participants march and take their oath of sportsman ship during the said ceremony.

PSC Chairman Jose Emmanuel “Noli” Eala said that “today is a significant moment in the PSC calendar, because today not only marks the 8th Women’s Martial Arts Festival, it also marks a time when we finally see face-to-face athletic competition especially, in combat sports. It is also a day when we reopen our home in the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex (RMSC) for our athletes to compete once again, in our facilities. And most of all, it is significant because today is where women in sports take center stage.”

NU, La Salle battle for Super League crown

THEA Gagate scattered 27 points to power De La Salle University to a thrill ing, 25-16, 18-25, 25-23, 22-25, 15-8, vic tory over Adamson University to clinch the last Final seat in the Shakey’s Super League Collegiate Pre-season Champi onship late Friday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

The third-year middle ignited the Lady Spikers’ fifth set fightback after going down 0-3 to forge an exciting winner-take-all title showdown against unbeaten National University on No vember 19 in a rematch of UAAP Season 84 Finals.

“We just held on. We’re really deter mined to get back at them and win this game,” said Gagate, who hammered 18 attacks, tallied five kill blocks, and landed four aces.

The Lady Falcons, who swept La Salle in the second round, opened the deciding set with three straight points following a strong fourth-frame finish.

Gagate put the Lady Spikers on the scoreboard with a quick kill that sparked a 9-2 rally capped by a Baby Jyne Soreno ace for a 9-5 lead as momentum swung in La Salle’s favor.

Another four-point spurt put the

Lady Spikers up, 13-7, before Rizza Cruz stopped Adamson’s bleeding with a kill.

Alleiah Malaluan pushed La Salle at match point with an off-the-block kill before Cruz sent her attack long that ended the gripping two-hour, 13-minute match.

Rookie Angel Canino got 20 points in cluding 17 attacks while Malaluan scored all but one of her 12 markers on spikes for the Lady Spikers, who are looking to avenge their UAAP championship series loss to the Lady Bulldogs last June.

Earlier, NU defeated University of Santo Tomas, 25-23, 23-25, 25-21, 25-17,

in the other semifinals pairing to move a win away from adding another feather to its cap.

Adamson, which got 15 points from Kate Santiago, 12 from Cruz and 11 each from Lorene Toring and Antonette Ad olfo, will face the Tigresses in the battle for bronze.

Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila Univer sity played sans head coach Oliver Alma dro and veteran hitters Vannie Gandler and Faith Nisperos but still managed to take down University of Perpetual Help, 25-23, 18-25, 25-18, 25-22, in their classification round encounter.

Run holds key to victory at IRONMAN 70.3

It

CAL Babies, Lady Warriors set final showdown

Sports

Casiey Dongallo had two blocks and two service aces for a 27-point outing as the CAL Babies rallied from a first-set loss to extend their perfect run to four matches.

Jelai Gajero came through with 18 points, middle blocker Jenalyn Umayam chipped in 12 kills, while Lhouriz Tuddao tossed in 11 points for CPS Antipolo.

The CAL Babies and the Lady Warriors dispute the gold medal at 3 p.m. Sunday at the same Pasig venue.

Fifth placers in last year’s inaugurals in the Lipa bubble, CPS Antipolo has surpassed all of its expectations in the tournament supported by the Philippine

“Whatever we did there, all the experiences, all the learnings, we got from there (first sea son) and we brought it here,” said Dongal lo, a pride from Cebu. “Even though our opponents are older than us, it does not matter. If they are brave, we need to match to give out opponents (UE) a good fight.”

Dongallo was not around when the CAL Babies defeated the Lady Warriors in four sets in their Pool B opener.

Jorelle Singh and Alex Rafael had 16 and 12 points, respectively, for the AJAA Spikers.

taekwondo, sambo

Games

The

St. Benilde keeps hands off legal case vs. Amores

THE cases filed by De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde’s Jimboy Pasturan and Taine Davis against Jose Rizal Univer sity’s John Amores on Friday morning were done in a personal capacity.

CSB official said the school has not officially given the green light to file complaints of physical injuries against Amores following a bench-clearing incident last Tuesday in the CSB-JRU game of the 98th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s bas ketball tournament at the FilOil-EcoOil Arena in San Juan.

“It was the decision of the family. It was done in a personal capacity,” said Dax Castellano, the management com mittee representative of the school.

Pasturan and Davis were both punched by Amores after the Heavy Bomber charged the Blazers’ bench with 3:22 left in their game.

Their cases were filed before the San Juan prosecutors’ office and in the presence of CSB Blazers coach Charles Tiu, and a lawyer. They were filed right before the University of Perpetual Help Altas pulled off an 89-83 subduing of the Blazers.

Tiu admitted the players need to get over the distractions and emotions over the incident, now that sanctions have been imposed, and after they saw action with three suspended players.

Later, the San Sebastian Stags brought down the JRU Heavy Bomb ers, 92-74, to move up to the fifth spot with their 6-7 slate. Peter

Atencio

Malixi eyes top finish in ICTSI golf

Malixi has won all her three appearances in stroke play in this year’s LPGT and is keen on ending the season with yet another championship in the knockout event high lighting the return of pro golf to the new normal after the pandemic.

That makes Malixi, who reigned at Luisita, Valley and Riviera, again the player to beat in the upcoming event organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. where the top 16 players after the 11-leg LPGT dispute the top P280,000 purse in a series of faceoffs spread over four days.

“I’m more comfortable in match play. I had fun experiences in my past (match play) results in the US. It’s a confidence booster since I’m familiar with this for mat,” said Malixi, who, however, remained cautious of her chances on the tight, chal lenging par-72 military layout.

to one-on-one duels, having vied in the

But the rising 15-year-old star, who missed snaring the Thailand Amateur Open in sudden death but ruled the Thai Junior World and then finished second in the Women’s Amateur Asia Pacific Championship last month, is no stranger to one-on-one duels, having vied in the US Girls, the US Amateurs, the Women’s

“I’m not quite familiar with Villamor, which I played once when I was 9, so I’m looking forward to what the layout’s like. I believe that consistency is a key especially short game,” she added.

PUERTO PRINCESA City – Eight-hundred-ninety-eight intrepid triathletes set out for an exacting test of physical endurance and mental strength in the IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa here today (Sunday), all seeking to summon their last reserves in the closing run stage in pursuit of triathlon glory.

RIANNE Malixi should feel comfortable in a head-to-head format as she is in medal play, seeking to cap an imposing campaign on the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour in the ICTSI Villamor Match Play Invitational un folding Tuesday (Nov. 15) at the Villamor Golf Club.

Western Amateur and the American Junior Golf Association.

Participants in the IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa take it easy at the Baywalk area ahead of the city’s first-ever hosting of the premier endurance race which drew over 1,200 triathletes from 26 countries.

CALIFORNIA Precision Sports-Antipolo turned back Imus City, 26-28, 25-13, 2521, 25-19, to arrange a women’s cham pionship showdown with the University of the East-Manila in the Philippine Na tional Volleyball Federation Champions League Saturday at the Philsports Arena.

Commission, Rebisco, PLDT, Philippine Olympic Committee, Cignal HD, One Sports, Cignal Play, F2 Logistics and Amigo Entertainment.

Malixi exudes confi dence for a top finish

With the current in the opening swim leg of the 1.9 km swim-90km bike-21k run event at a manageable level, one’s title bid – both in the overall individual and in various age-group categories – could hinge on the tri-sports’ “bike for show, run for dough” mantra due to the decisive part it generally has in the out come of each endurance race.

“On the bike, it’s difficult to know because it’s (course) looping. So, I think the chase is on the run,” said race director Neville Manaois. “But we will have a very fast, challenging race.”

will indeed be a rush and doubly inspiring as the host city, through Mayor Lucilo Bayron, has upped the ante, putting up an additional P150,000 each for the fastest overall male and female in the blue-ribbon event organized by the IRONMAN Group/Sunrise Events, Inc. kicking off at Puerto Princesa Baywalk Park and ending at the Ramon Mitra Jr. Sports Complex.

Reagan Nabua and John Alcala, who placed third in the IM 70.3 Subic last March and in IM 70.3 Cebu last August, respectively, headline the cast in the men’s side that includes bets from 25 other countries with focus also on Melvin Santiago, the first Filipino to cross the finish line in the IM World Championship in Kona, Hawaii recently, and Fer Casares, a two-time SEA Games gold medalist and the first Filipino to successfully complete a World Cup event. Also expected to crowd the fancied bets are Jailani Lalama, Abdul Toroganan, Yoejan Prudente, Mervin Santiago and Bohol 5150 champion Satar Salem, along with other bets from the US, Hong Kong, Guam, Singapore, France, the United Kingdom, Australia, India and Japan.

Women-in-Sports Oversight commis sioner Bong Coo said that the martial arts festival is held, with the goal of helping our national sports association and national athletes prepare for the 6th Asian Indoor Martial Arts Games (AIMAG), to be held in Bangkok, Thai land. The AIMAG opens exactly 365 days after the PSC WMA Festival closes on November 17.

The Rizal Memorial Coliseum will stage the competitions of pencak silat,

and wrestling. The PSC Multi-purpose Gym, formerly known as Ninoy Aquino Stadium, will be the playing venue for muay thai, kickboxing, karate and arnis (demo), and kurash, jiu jitsu and judo (demo) tournaments will be at the Judo Training Center.

will be streamed live on the PSC’s YouTube channel and the PSC WMA Festival FB page

event is sponsored by Pocari Sweat Otsuka Solar Philippines Inc.

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Noli Eala (3rd from right) and commissioner Bong Coo (center) with National Sports Association officials

Participating women athletes sing the national anthem

Mary Francine Padios performs on the mat

THE international

James Dyson Foundation recognized young Filipino innovator Aleksander Wieneke for Noah, an indoor multi-purpose chair that transforms into a lifesaving flotation device.

The charitable arm of the Singaporean multinational technology company Dyson, it acknowledged Wieneke as the National Runner-Up of the prestigious James Dyson Award, an international accolade that celebrates, encourages, and inspires young designers with new problem-solving ideas.

Wieneke’s emergency equipment aims to prevent drowning, ameliorate rescue operations and address a number of dangers associated with flooding such as illnesses, electrocution and stranding.

The inventor was motivated to provide an affordable and accessible way to address the issue, while he pursued his thesis under the Industrial Design Program of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.

“Floods are the most frequent natural disaster and are expected to increase in frequency and severity due to climate change,” Wieneke explained. “Drowning accounts for 75 percent of deaths. But victims also experience limited mobility, sickness, slow emergency response, damaged belongings, stranding and so forth. Yet, most do not own emergency equipment.”

“I found that the low-middle income bracket is most affected,” he added. “They do not own adequate emer-

James Dyson Foundation recognizes Filipino innovator’s chair-life raft

gency equipment and refuse to move houses. Existing products are too costly, intrusive, or inaccessible. A flotation device is what they need.”

The production of Noah included a meticulous process that encompassed comprehensive research as well as interviews with victims of the calamities,

Heart Evangelista advocates the importance of sleep in overall health

FASHION

great value to sleep and rest as one of the most essential things in life. For her, quality sleep can be rewarding enough to foster success, great health, and happiness.

Sleeping for the prescribed amount of time is necessary, but having good sleep products like Uratex’s mattresses and pillows can make a huge difference in energizing you for the next day.

“I am a fan of anything in life that gives you comfort, that will give you good health and Uratex Mattresses does just that. I do treasure my sleep and I make sure that I do invest in top quality mattresses so I can get the best rest that I need and be more productive in life,” Heart shared.

As Uratex’s ambassador, Heart Evangelista joins the brand in sharing the value of having a good night’s sleep for its #LoveMyGisingWithUratex campaign.

According to Milieu Insight and Intellect’s research on sleeping, many Filipino adults who are currently employed admitted to experiencing poor quality of life due to a variety of stressors. This has resulted to most of them having difficulty finding good sleep.

Quality sleep, as reported by a study from The National Academies,

is important because the lack of rest can lead to serious health problems, including obesity, diabetes, hyper tension, cardiovascular diseases, and weaker immune function.

“Major restorative functions in the body such as tissue repair, muscle growth, and protein synthesis occur almost exclusively during sleep,” the Harvard Medical School also noted in another study.

Uratex and Heart hope to become a bridge for Filipinos in reinforcing that good, healthy sleep can come a long way.

With this, Uratex has lined up a variety of mattresses that are fit for the specific needs of everyone.

“I know they say eight hours (is what we need) but eight hours on the plane, eight hours on the car is different from the eight hours on the bed. I do need a mattress that will take care of my spine and posture. Uratex offers a few different things like a cooling bed mattress and one with memory foam. Everything is just tailorfit to your lifestyle,” Heart shared on the comfort of Uratex’s mattresses.

To learn more about Uratex and its products, visit www.uratex.com.ph. You may also follow /UratexPhilippines on Facebook, and @uratex_ph on Instagram for updates and upcoming promos.

emergency professionals and design consultants. The finished product is low-cost, recyclable, electrically insulated, chemical resistant, abrasionresistant and anti-impact, a sturdier alternative to an inflatable.

Noah was designed to hold most body types. It features reflective tape

for visibility, a paddle with a bow hook and proper storage system for emergency supplies and first-aid kits. There are also handles on all four sides to grip onto, attach a cord, or link multiple rafts together.

“This makes disaster response more proactive on the household level.

Start your holiday shopping early

WITH the infinite selection of stuff that you can get from the leading ecommerce platform, Lazada, there’s no shortage of gifts for your family and friends – and rewards for yourself, too. After all, getting into the Christmas spirit of giving and sharing is the best way to kick off the holiday season.

Luckily for PLDT Home Rewards mem bers, five P100,000 Lazada gift cards are up for grabs in this month’s Grand Giveaway promo, and joining the raffle is fast and easy.

If you are a PLDT Home subscriber but not yet a member of the loyalty program, you can simply enroll your account to PLDT Home Rewards and start earning Crystals and raffle entries. If you are an existing member, just pay your PLDT bill in full and on time, upgrade your plan, apply for paperless and auto-charge payment, or pay via digital channels to start earning Crystals and raffle entries.

You can also exchange 10 Crystals for a Lazada voucher that gives you P100 off for a minimum spend of P1,000 during Lazada’s Biggest sale (which runs until today) – for which you’ll also automatically get two raffle entries to the PLDT Home Rewards Grand Giveaway this month.

Here are some of the awesome finds that you can get with your P100,000 Lazada gift cards on the most awaited sale:

Fashion

Update your wardrobe or give your family and friends some stylish clothes that you can get at a discount this 11.11. From fashion essentials like jeans and shorts, stylish and colorful tops, to the most trending sneakers, you can express yourself creatively without breaking the bank.

For those looking for great deals on fashion essentials, a cute pair of Levi’s denim shorts or these elegant and chic ZANZEA khaki chinos look good in your OOTDs. You’ll also want to look good in stylish tops and dresses, which is why getting a dress like a pretty Crissa woven dress or a fashionable Plains and Prints vintage top gives you great style options for parties and reunions this holiday season. If you want something sporty, get a pair of the Fila Lite Matrix Run or the timeless Adidas Stan Smith.

Home essentials

Looking to level up your house? There’s a whole range of home improvement

choices available online, such as furniture, accessories, decorations, and other unique pieces. If you saw it on social media like Facebook and TikTok, you’ll most likely find it on Lazada.

You can give your living room an upgrade by getting a piece like a new BAIERDI luxury sofa bed set perfect for a cozy holiday movie night with the family. Try something new for your dining room at home like the 16-piece Corelle dinnerware set that can add more flair to your Noche Buena. If you want a comfier holiday sleeping experience over the break, then getting a new Uratex foam mattress is definitely the perfect choice.

Games, consoles, and accessories

Holidays mean long breaks and more quality time to spend with family and loved ones.  Bond over action-packed and fun video games.

Playing the hottest games of 2022 on a brand-new Sony PlayStation 5 will surely be the highlight of your family’s holiday season. Don’t forget to add one or more extra PS5 controllers to your cart for fun multiplayer sessions with more family members. For solo players, you can get a copy of Elden Ring, one of the best PS5 games right now. You can also buy other gaming accessories and peripherals during the 11.11 sale, like the HyperX Alloy Origins mechanical keyboard, which is a great gift idea for PC gamers who are also keyboard enthusiasts.

Work and study at home essentials

Grab productivity essentials like office and study tools, gadgets, electronics, and more at great deals in the 11.11 sale.

For the hardworking go-getter in your life, the Infinix INbook X1 is one of the best value-for-money laptops available right now. If they prefer to work or study on a device that’s more portable, another good option is a reliable tablet like the Huawei MatePad T10. Meanwhile, you can also upgrade your home workstation with the HP Deskjet Ink Advantage 2337 3-in-1 Printer, which gives you and the family an easier and more hassle-free time in printing important documents for school or work.

Feel great, beautiful,

Beauty must-haves

and confident

When considering real-world household limitations, a chair is more compact, affordable than large furniture, and commonly used.”

For more information about Noah, visit https://www.jamesdysonaward. org/2022/project/noah/.

this holiday season without breaking the bank. Lazada also offers a wide variety of health and beauty products from makeup to skincare.   Score nice deals on effective skincare products like the Garnier Sakura All Star Kit, which can give you dazzling glass skin in one week. A set of RP Frozen Collagen Face Masks can also keep your face clean, cool, and healthy all the time. For gift ideas to give your friends or family, you can’t go wrong with something like the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser bundle.

There’s an infinite number of deals to score in this year’s Lazada 11.11 sale! So, don’t forget to register to PLDT Home Rewards, pay your PLDT bill in full and on time, upgrade your plan, apply for paperless and auto charge payment, or pay via digital channels to get a chance to win a Lazada gift card in PLDT Home Rewards’ Grand Giveaway Promo this month.    It doesn’t stop there—your raffle entries serve as your tickets to win the grand prize: a whopping P5 million pesos. Make the most of PLDT Home Rewards and join the Grand Giveaway Promo today. Visit https://pldthome.com/grandgiveaway to find out more.

icon Heart Evangelista gives

Heart Evangelista joins Urartex in sharing the value of having a good night’s sleep

Benilde Industrial Design alumnus Aleksander Wieneke with NOAH

NOAH boasts several features that ensure safety when used as a raft

INTERNATIONALLY

RENOWNED

brings the heat in sultry single ‘Divine’ Marina Summers

The dance-pop anthem celebrates the queer community and promotes taking ownership of one’s individuality while playing around with the summer theme and heavenly references. It’s a mix of dancehall and pop sounds with splashes of Latin guitar.

Tarsier Records label head Moophs produced the track while Marina wrote

the lyrics and melody. Lines such as, “Gotta leave your fear behind. Kill the demons in your mind. Get baptized and keep it tight,” are sure to deliver a confidence boost to listeners.

Since its release, “Divine” has racked up over 27,000 views on YouTube and more than 20,000 streams on Spotify. Shortly after the song’s release, Drag

Race US superstar Alaska Thunderf*ck featured Marina’s likeness in a backdrop during a performance; Marina reposted saying, “thanks wifey.” Marina performed her newest single live at the Divine Official Launch Party to a raving crowd in Empty Stomach, Bonifacio Global City (BGC) last Sunday (November 6). The event featured

performances from fellow Tarsier artist Zion Aguirre and fellow Drag Playhouse PH queens Eva Le Queen, PRINCE, and ØV CÜNT Marina is one of the newest additions to Tarsier Records’ roster of artists. She performs regularly at Nectar Nightclub and is one of the founders of Drag Playhouse PH.

GLOBE is the first telecommunications operator to distribute the highly anticipated streaming service, Disney+, in the Philippines from November 17.

With Globe’s network and extensive coverage, subscribers of Disney+ will be able to access a vast library of content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and Star.

“We are proud to be the first telco to distribute Disney+ to Filipino viewers who have been eagerly awaiting the streaming service to become available here,” said Globe Group President and CEO Ernest Cu Globe has undertaken various ventures with Disney since 2015, with both brands having their own history of storytelling that has captivated Filipinos for decades.

Globe customers have been treated to first dibs on select Disney theatrical viewings, video streaming via DisneyLife, Disney Interactive’s mobile games, and Disney Lifestyle products.

In time for the holiday season, Globe and Disney+ have a lot in store for customers who have longed to experience The Walt Disney Company’s unrivaled storytelling and the power of stories that spark hope, inspire imaginations, and energize spirits.

From iconic movies from Walt Disney Animation Studios, to heartwarming and powerful storytelling from Disney and Pixar, to blockbuster films from the thrilling worlds of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, to the Star Wars films and latest series, to compelling documentaries and specials from

National Geographic and the incredible collection of general entertainment series, movies, documentaries and other content under Star, there’s something for everyone on Disney+.

Subscribers of Disney+ will be able to follow quirky Mirabel as she saves Encanto. Join Thor the God of Thunder as he tackles the threat of a galactic killer known as Gorr the God Butcher in Thor: Love and Thunder. Discover the complicated life of single lawyer, Jennifer Walters, who turns into the

Disney+ features over 1,800 films and 32,000 episodes, including an extensive and ever-growing collection of Disney+ Originals and beloved library titles, spanning almost a century of unforgettable storytelling.

“A good story can entertain us, but a great Disney story does so much more - it mirrors our values, strengthens our convictions, and pushes us forward to embrace each day. It is our wish that this collaboration between Globe and Disney will reignite the spark that compels us to better our lives para pagandahin ang araw-araw,” said Pia Gonzalez-Colby Globe Chief Marketing Officer.

Globe customers can get Disney+ on an a la carte basis at P159 per month or P1,150 per year for a Mobile Plan. A Premium Plan, meanwhile, will allow streaming on four devices at P369 per month or P2,950 per year.

Customers may also use their Globe Rewards points to subscribe.

HISTORY has proven that there are artists who spend their entire lives in pursuit of that one break, and there are artists who just seem to be born with the gift of effortlessly fusing melodies and words together and naturally connecting with audiences of all shapes and sizes.

Jireh Lim has proven again and again that he belongs to the esteemed latter, and he’s not taking a step back to admire the scenery, as he is working even harder to come up with hit tunes like his latest single “Gumamela,” which is arguably his finest work to date.

Riddled with a bouncy pop and RnB styling, a slick and well-calculated sonic production, and catchy-as-hell melodies, “Gumamela” sounds like a natural and seamless evolution of Jireh – who cut his teeth and honed his talents more than a decade ago, armed with a handful of cover songs with just an acoustic guitar and a smooth and refined voice.

The song’s theme – albeit rooted in the traditional “doing-whatever-it-takesfor-love” idea and musings – is taken to greater heights with Jireh’s knack for infusing cleverly relatable and totally sincere lyricism that seems to fall effortlessly into musical cadence and phrasing: an obvious by-product of the singer-songwriter’s dedication to consistently improve both his passion and craft.

“I wrote this song back in 2012 – I was just humming a catchy melody with my guitar in hand, thinking about all the happy moments with the love of my life, and how easy it was to do anything without hesitation for a loved one,” Jireh shared.

When asked about the difference from his previous singles (like “Magkabilang Mundo,” “Sabik”, and the widely popular “Buko,” all of which had a simpler acoustic vibe), Jireh revealed a deeper mission than just sonic

“Personally, I feel like I have been given a gift, and it’s something I want to use to inspire people and even myself: to be better… which is why I’m always willing to step out of my comfort zone if it means becoming a better musician;” and added, “And I never take anything for granted: I do this consistently because I remind myself that everything I have is mainly because of the listeners and the people who supported me, and both related and believed in what I do.”

“Gumamela” is another musical milestone to add to Jireh Lim’s ever-growing and impressive body of work. Needless to say, things are only looking to get better, now that the artist is more dedicated than ever to keep fighting the good fight.

“We’re thrilled that Disney fans and families will soon be able to access our incredible library of entertainment content on Disney+ including exclusive Disney+ originals, blockbuster films, series, documentaries, and other content from Disney’s iconic suite of brands and franchises,” said David

Prepaid customers may also enjoy special offers by subscribing to Disney+ packages via their load credits. Postpaid customers may charge the subscription to their monthly bill and Globe Platinum customers will be able to include their chosen Disney+ subscription in their consumable allowance.

Existing subscribers of GFiber 2499 internet plans and above will be able to enjoy an annual Disney+ premium plan on us. Download the GlobeOne app to learn more.

“People ask me all the time what or where I’d be if I wasn’t a songwriter, and I’ve never been able to give a specific answer because this is really the only thing I know how to do and I am fully passionate about – so I don’t think I’d have a happy life if I wasn’t doing this… so right now, after the release of ‘Gumamela,’ I simply just want to create more music, release more music videos and play more shows… I just want to be busy with music: that’s all I ever want.”

“Gumamela” is out now on various digital music platforms.

I

The

The film is a no-holds-barred portrait of the complex and multifaceted woman behind “The Voice.” From New Jersey choir girl to one of the bestselling and most awarded recording

artists of all time, audiences are taken on an inspirational, poignant –and so emotional – journey through Houston’s trailblazing life and career, with show-stopping performances and a soundtrack of the icon’s most beloved hits as you’ve never heard them before.

Joining Ackie in the cast are Stanley Tucci, Ashton Sanders, Tamara Tunie, Nafessa Williams, and Clarke Peters.

green superhero She-Hulk: Attorney at Law. Keep your blood pumping with the pursuits of Jedi Master ObiWan Kenobi. Embark on a path that is destined to turn Cassian into a rebel hero in Andor. Catch BTS Permission To Dance On Stage – LA and be prepared to fall in love against all odds with the K-drama, Snowdrop.

Shin, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Southeast Asia, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, The Walt Disney Company.

A NEW trailer has just been released for I Wanna Dance With Somebody the upcoming biopic about Whitney Houston, one of the most legendary singers of our time. The film will hit local cinemas in January.

trailer opens with the signature sound of Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love you”, and then cuts to Houston, played by Naomi Ackie being introduced to a roaring crowd as she looks up and smiles.

Wanna Dance with Somebody is a powerful and triumphant celebration of the incomparable Whitney Houston. Directed by Kasi Lemmons, written by Academy Award nominee Anthony McCarten, and produced by legendary music executive Clive Davis.

Filipina drag artist and Drag Race Philippines first runner-up Marina Summers brings the heat this November with her debut single under Tarsier Records entitled “Divine.”

Marina Summers delights fans with a production number in the music video for ‘Divine’

Mirabel Madrigal from ‘Encanto’

Did the Saints have pets?

By Mariana Burgos

EVER wondered how the dog breed “St. Bernard” got its name? I did. At first, I thought it was the bloodline of the pet dog of St. Bernard. Of course, I was wrong. But it still had something to do with the saint.

November 1 for Catholics is 'All-Saints' Day. It is the day we get to celebrate the lives of all the saints. St. Bernard is, indeed, a real saint. The dog breed with the same name, though, is NOT the bloodline of the pet dog of the saint.

Kristina Glicksman said in her article "Saints and Their Furry and Feathered Friends" (3 October 2020) that while their namesake lived in the 11th century, the St. Bernard breed only dates to the 17th. Two hostels were established by St. Bernard of Montjoux (also known as Menthon) along perilous Alps routes that were frequently traveled by Rome-bound pilgrims. The Great St. Bernard Pass and the Little St. Bernard Pass were eventually given these names. In order to help them care for travelers who become disoriented on the perilous and snowy paths, the monks who have maintained the hostels since that time eventually sought the services of dogs. Natu rally, this new breed was given the name St. Bernard. Given the job they have done to save countless lives,

the name seems well earned.

There are many other saints that are known to have close ties with certain animals, but they did not see them as their pets. They did not think of them as something they can claim as their own. Although the creatures did seem to act as though the saints were their masters, they were never bounded or contained by them.

Saint Francis of Assisi, who is arguably the most well-known of all, is revered as the Patron Saint of all animals and ecology. There is definitely some thing extraordinary with his relationship with ani mals, because as it is described in the article about St. Francis of Assisi in Wikipedia, there is nothing ordinary with being able to command flocks of untamed birds and a wild wolf just by speaking to them calmly, and for the first time, for that matter.

Through his writings, his canticle and the prayers he wrote, Saint Francis demonstrated how, when we are at peace with God, we are better equipped

to give our all to fostering that peace with all of creation. In light of the fact that everything in existence is a direct outcome of God's unwavering love for humanity, he sought to deepen that sense of brotherhood for all of God's creatures.

St. John Bosco never owned a dog as a priest but had a big grey dog who always mysteriously appeared whenever he was in grave danger. He named him Grigio meaning 'the grey one'. On many occasions, Grigio would appear out of nowhere when St John was being attacked and would successfully save him. The detailed ac counts of the many extraordinary instances of the unexplained appearances of Grigio every time St. John Bosco was attacked by unlawful individuals can be read at the website, "Miracles of the Saints" (https://www.miraclesofthesaints.com/2010/10/ miracles-with-dogs-birds-other-animals.html).

This next saint is the one that dog owners ought to particularly pray to for their dog because he is the one they say is the patron saint of dogs. St. Roch, aside from being the patron saint of dogs, is also referred to as the protector of bachelors, wrongly accused individuals, and invalids. He was a Catholic Saint from a wealthy family who lived in the 13th century. Admin of the website Savelli writes in their article, "3-Patron Saints of Animals" (28 April 2022), the plague struck St. Roch because he was so near people who were in pain. He entered the forest to die alone because he did not want to burden people with his care. He was discovered by a stray dog, who brought him some bread and took care of him because he was quite weak and malnourished. In addition to bringing the saint food for several days to keep him alive, it is stated that the hunting dog cured the Saint by licking the sores the plague had left. He learnt that the dog belonged to a local Count who had been a friend of his for many years after he fully recovered from the plague. Saint Roch journeyed to Montpellier with his canine companion where they were both apprehended and imprisoned for five years on suspicion of spying. Some reports stated that the dog continued to look after other captives for years after the Saint

passed away. If you ask me, that was kind of a bitter-sweet conclusion.

I have always believed that true holiness is best shown if a person is kind not just to his fellowmen but to all of God's creation. True saints were not re ally afraid of any animal even as ferocious as a wolf or a lion. Nor were they grossed out by anything about them. And, most importantly, they never looked at animals as lower beings than they are. That's why they never treated them as pets.

About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a freelance 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.

What is heterochromia?

Dr. Pete Wedderburn, in his article "Heterochromia In Cats: Cats With Different Colored Eyes" (8 Sept. 2022), says that although David Bowie and a few other notable individuals have heterochromia, it is rather common in many other animals, including cats, dogs, horses, cattle, rabbits, and ferrets.

Wedderburn claims that heterochromia affects cats frequently. However, it affects white cats more frequently. Heterochromia is uncommon in cats with black or dark-colored coats. This is due to the part melanin plays in how the color of a coat and eyes develops.

Ok, so the odd-colored pair of eyes is not so rare. What stunned us was the fact that our kitten with this pair of eyes is a male and is…a calico! Now, this rare kind of cats I am familiar with since I was a kid.

What are calico cats and how rare are they?

Calico cats are cats with three colors for their coats. When I was still a child, I often heard our grandparents say, "swerte ang lalaking pusa na tatlong kulay.” They talked of how lucky it was

to have a male calico cat. They truly believed it would give them a lot of luck if they had one born or adopted to them.

Laura Moss, in her article, "Why Are Male Calico Cats So Rare?" (18 July 2022), says the term "calico" refers to a pattern of a cat that may have any three colors—white, cream, and grey, or the more popular white, orange, and black combination—rather than a specific breed of cat.

Every now and then, a male cat will grow an additional chromosome and come out with a distinctive tricolored coat. Moss tells us that, typically, only females have the chromosomal combination required for the calico pattern. Only one in every 3,000 chances exists for this to occur! Now, that is a rare chance, I must say.

Furthermore, Moss says that calico tomcats are extremely uncommon due to genetics. Cats' coat color is often a sex-related feature, meaning that specific chromosomes are color-coded. Because the gene that determines those hues is located on the X chromosome, both male and female cats can be orange (due to a mutant mutation) or black. Males, who have one X and one Y chromosome, can only have one color unless they have a genetic disorder, in contrast to females,

who can have both hues because they have two X chromosomes. Then there are three chromosomes present, including two X chromosomes. Three sex chromosomes—two Xs and a Y—are required for a male cat to exhibit a calico pattern. The XXY combination can occur when the male's XY chromosomal pair fails to divide completely after conception. This occurrence can occur in both humans and animals, and it is known as Klinefelter syndrome in both cases, says Moss.

Although every cat is unique, Moss says that male calico cats with Klinefelter syndrome frequently have a number of health issues that reduce their lifespan. The syndrome is frequently accompanied by issues including increased body fat, which causes diabetes, joint discomfort, and heart disease. It is possible for male Calico cats with Klinefelter's Syndrome to live full and happy lives, but they may need special care to aid them with these challenges.

The folklore with calico cats

My grandparents believed calico cats are lucky charms. Well, they are not the only ones to have such a belief. Over the years, calicos have given rise to several myths and superstitions.

Maneki-Neko, the beckoning feline figure frequently seen in stores and restaurants, has a tricolor design because they have been a symbol of good fortune in Japan since the 19th century.

Moss says, in 2015, 3,000 people showed up for the burial of a stationmaster in calico who was credited with boosting traffic at a Japanese train station.

Some other fun facts about male calico cats are shared by Emily Munden in her article, "50 Calico Cat Facts That Are Purrr-Fect" (27 Oc tober 2022). She says that around the world, calico cats are regarded as lucky and are used as good luck emblems. They are known as "Money Cats" in the US because people be lieve they will prosper financially.

Around the world, calico cats go by many differ ent names. According to Munden, they are referred to as "lucky cats" in Germany and go by the name "Glückskatze." the Dutch name for calico cats is "Lapjeskat," which means "patches cat," and the Japanese name "Mike Neko" means "triple fur."

Calico cats cannot be actively bred, which is another reason why they are seen as lucky. As Munden says, a calico cat is a genetic oddity that only happens by accident because the calico is not a recognized cat breed. Their scarcity adds to their

LAST month, one of our female cats gave birth to four (4) kittens. Two males and two females. One of the female kittens has beautiful blue eyes. And one of the male kittens has heterochromia: one eye is blue and the other is green!

For all beauty-conscious people out there, Moss tells us that a calico cat's tail is said to be able to remove warts in Irish folklore. Hmmm... I have wart problems. My wart problems are solved!

magical appeal. Mariana Burgos

This is a portrait of St. Don Bosco and Grigio. Photo taken from the Facebook page of Catholic Finish Strong with title post, 'Was Grigio (the big grey dog) a guardian angel in disguise?'

Photo of a statue of St. Francis of Assisi talking to animals" (Photo taken from Dreamstine)

This is a painting of St. Roch with the dog who took care of him in the forest and who became his constant companion for the rest of his life. Photo taken from 21st Century Catholic Evangelizatio.

Calico