Manila Standard - 2023 January 1 - Sunday

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI passes on, 95

FORMER pope Benedict XVI has died at the age of 95, the Vatican announced Saturday, almost a decade after he became the first pontiff to resign in six centuries.

His death brought to an end an unprecedented situation in which two “men in white” – Benedict and his

Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, passed away today at 9:34 in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican,” Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said in a statement.

successor Pope Francis – had co-existed within the walls of the tiny city state.

“With sorrow I inform you that the

CBCP pays tribute to ‘Pope of Charity’

THE Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines paid tribute to the Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who passed away yesterday, saying he will always be remembered as “the Pope of Charity.”

"If

theologian,

Caritas

“Among the many charisms God had bestowed on him, he will be specially remembered as a great

Happy New Year!

Sakay’ ended despite addt’l budget

He later told journalists the funeral would take place on Thursday, January 5 at St Peter’s Square, presided over by Pope Francis. ‘Libreng

n By DARWIN G. AMOJELAR

THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has issued a fare box matrix for the EDSA busway effective 5 a.m. today (Jan. 1, 2023) after the Department of Transportation stood firm on its decision not to extend the “Libreng Sakay” program despite an allocated

Gallup poll: PH happiest country in ‘22

THE Philippines was the happiest country in the world in 2022, a survey of 34 countries by the Gallup International Association showed.

In GIA’s 2022 End of Year Survey, the Philippines took the top spot with a net score of 75 percent, followed by Mexico, Malaysia, Afghanistan, and Ecuador.

Some 39 percent of Filipinos were hopeful that 2023 will be better than 2022, while a majority of 52 percent said it will just be the same. At least 5 percent said it will be worse.

Nigeria and Pakistan were the top 2 most hopeful nations in the world, followed by Kazakhstan, Philippines, and India.

Global average of optimism stood at -2 percent, which means most of the world continues to doubt progress in 2023.

European countries are the least 1-

budget of P1.2 billion.

In an interview with Manila Standard, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said that even if Congress allocated a P1.2 billion budget for the service contracting scheme, it will only last for about 3 months as the program costs about P12 million a

to sustain the ‘Libreng Sakay at Edsa Busway.’ We need P12 million a day to subsidize the operation of Edsa Busway,” Bautista said.

Asked if they are allowed to use the programmed fund for another item, Bautista said: “The LTFRB will study

I JOIN the entire Filipino nation with hope and optimism in welcoming the New Year.

As we reflect on the events that transpired in the previous year, I hope that we will draw strength and inspiration from what truly binds us together – our genuine love for our fellow Filipinos and our country. This is the essence of our call for unity and the impetus for our continued invitation to work together for the realization of our shared aspirations as a people.

It is in this understanding that we need, now more than ever, to embody the true meaning of solidarity. The innate Bayanihan spirit in all of us is what will keep us going amidst all adversities that will continue to test our fortitude as a nation.

All ports of entry poised to restart testing travelers

n By JOEL E. ZURBANO

ALL airport and seaport terminals have been alerted for a possible reestablishment of testing requirements for arriving travelers from China and other countries tagged as “high-alert” for COVID-19.

“All bureau personnel are hereby directed to continuously intensify the quarantine protocols,” Bureau of Quarantine director Ferdinand Salcedo said in a memorandum.

Among the protocols, Salcedo said, was to “coordinate with airport and

President appoints Maralit, Rodriguez as OPS officials

LOPEZ

Maralit

Rodriguez,

seaport terminal authorities for possible reestablishment of testing of inbound travelers from high-alert countries.”

Aside from testing, quarantine personnel were also instructed to 1) Heighten surveillance on all respiratory symptoms in all travelers and conveyances coming from China including a thorough review of the submitted Maritime Declaration of Health and health part of Aircraft General Declaration; 2) Report intercepted symptomatic passengers during arrival

TV news anchor Barbara Walters, 93

Walters interviewed a host of US presidents, foreign leaders such as Anwar Sadat and Fidel Castro, and A-list celebrities in a hugely successful career that spanned five decades – becoming a touchstone of American culture in the process.

She

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI

‘Let’s welcome new year with hope, optimism’

Pope Francis is known as the Pope of Mercy and Joy, Pope Benedict will be remembered as the Pope of Charity. He began his episcopacy with a profoundly theological encyclical entitled Deus

Est (God is Love)," CBCP president Kalookan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David said in a statement.

catechist, and musician. He spent the last years of his life as an emeritus pope in solitude and contemplation, supporting the universal Church and Pope Francis

PIONEERING television journalist Barbara Walters, who upended a male-dominated industry as the first woman to anchor an evening news show in the United States, died on Friday (Saturday, Manila time) at the age of 93, her long-time employer ABC said.

died at her home in New York, tweeted Bob Iger, CEO of Disney, ABC’s parent company.

n By VINCE

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos has appointed two new officials of the Office of the Press Secretary.

Malacanang said Cherbett Karen Maralit and Francisco Rodriguez III will serve as OPS Undersecretary and Assistant Secretary, respectively.

was the former chief of staff of then Senate Minority Leader and now Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile and of Senate Pro Tempore Loren Legarda.

meanwhile, is a communications professional with extensive experience in both media and public relations.

FESTIVE LIGHTS.

The iconic ‘Pampanga Eye’ Ferris Wheel at SM City Pampanga is transformed into a ‘Lantern of Hope’ with lights, sounds, and fireworks display.

Cherbett Karen Maralit

Francisco Rodriguez III

Barbara Walters

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

DTI helps DA control prices of red onions in NCR markets

n By OTHEL V. CAMPOS

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Friday started fielding its price monitoring teams to assist the Department of Agriculture (DA) in checking the suggested retail prices (SRP) of red onions in public markets in the National Capital Region (NCR).

the suggested retail prices. We are exerting every effort to ensure that prices of basic necessities and prime commodities are within the reach of

Salceda to run after Chinese smuggling ring

n By MARICEL V. CRUZ AND JOEL E. ZURBANO

Meanwhile, Customs agents assigned at the Manila International Container Port

another shipment of smuggled agricultural products from China worth more than P139 million. . Salceda, chair of the influential House Committee on Ways and Means, said the tax panel will focus its oversight functions on “pinning down the so-called Chinaman Mafia. He said the tax committee has “Class A information from our various sources that this Mafia is in control of agricultural smuggling in the country, at every stage of the smuggling process, from transport to arrival to import permits and sanitary inspection.”

“Intelligence sources tell us that the main characters are Chinese, or their associates,” Salceda said in a statement.

“The tentacles are all over, but I am told that it is a small group, so if we can get to the core group, we should be able to pin the system down.”

Salceda pointed out that high profile seizures of smuggled goods come from China. These include onions seized in Alabang this November, and broccoli and carrots seized in Divisoria last April.

Salceda added the House tax panel will appeal to the Marcos administration to strengthen the Sub-Task Group on Economic Intelligence (STG-EI) to conduct more seizures and arrests.

The group is composed of the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Bureau of Customs (BOC), the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), and the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNPCIDG).

INBRIEF

BOC-NAIA exceeds tax target by P6.22b

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has recognized the collection district of Ninoy Aquino International Airport for its accomplishments in 2022, overshooting its tax collection target by P6.22 billion.

Davao solon’s TUPAD project fulfills promise

THE Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa ating

Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program of Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte has fulfilled its promise of providing economic assistance to his constituents particularly during the holiday season.

Records at the congressman’s office showed that residents of 54 barangays in his first legislative district in Davao City have received their cash assistance under the TUPAD program before the year ended.

TUPAD is a community–based package of assistance that offers emergency employment for displaced, underemployed, and seasonal workers, for a minimum of 10 days, but not more than 30 days, depending on the nature of work.

Duterte, son of former President Rodrigo Duterte, had instructed his staff to ensure that the cash aids were distributed to the beneficiaries before Christmas.

“With everyone’s effort and cooperation, not only in my office, everyone will feel the happiness this holiday season brings,” Duterte said “All TUPAD beneficiaries in the first district, who can now physically get together and celebrate the holidays with their families, were able to celebrate Christmas blissfully this year, and will welcome the New Year a little more abundantly," he added.

Maricel V. Cruz

TWO lotto bettors and their respective families will obviously have the happiest New Year after winning the P521-million Ultra Lotto 6/58 draw on Friday night.

The state-run Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) said the country’s newest multi-millionaires wagered on the winning combination 01-23-15-03-08-05, and will split the P521,275,111-pot.

The winning tickets were bought in Davao City, Davao del Sur and Tacloban City, Leyte.

The winners have one year from the date of the draw to claim their prize, according to the PCSO rules.

All major lotto prizes must be claimed at the PCSO main office in Shaw Boulevard, Mandaluyong City.

Winners must write their names and signature on the back of the winning tickets and present two governmentissued identification cards or documents.

Lotto winnings of more than P10,000 are subject to 20-percent tax under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and

Inclusion law.

A total of 395 other bettors have won P120,000 each for guessing five out of the six winning digits; 13,614 will get PHP2,000 each for four correct digits; and 170,810 will settle for PHP100 each for three correct digits.

The Ultra Lotto 6/58 is drawn every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday.

The public is encouraged to keep on patronizing the products of PCSO as a large chunk of its revenues goes to charity programs.

The Port of NAIA under the supervision of district collector Carmelita Talusan has contributed a total of P40.44 billion in duties and taxes, exceeding its P34.22 billion annual collection target by P6.22 billion or 18.18 percent.

In border security and protection, NAIA prevented unscrupulous importers from bringing into the country various shipments of illicit goods, and was able to file corresponding charges against them.

At least P451.8 million worth illegal drugs such as ecstasy, ketamine, kush, liquid marijuana, and shabu were intercepted by the port from 37 operations.

In addition, a total of 939 kilos of meat and meat products with no import clearance and health certificate, and shipments of poisonous spiders, tarantulas, snakes and marine animals were also detected and seized.

NO TO FIRECRACKERS.

In terms of trade facilitation, the Port of NAIA continues to improve its performance by implementing reforms and initiatives such as the enhancement and deployment of Information and communications technology (ICT) projects and the establishment of Customer Care Centers.

At present, NAIA district has 19 ICT projects in addition to the bureau’s systems and processes implemented and established four Customer Care Centers: NAIA - CCC, Central Mail Exchange Centers (CMEC), People’s Air Cargo (Paircargo), and DHL warehouses.

E. Zurbano

“On behalf of the Filipino people, I

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Most of the victims were also male, accounting for 87 percent or 45 cases.

The Philippine National Police, for its part, said it will not arrest users of pyrotechnic devices outside their residences during New Year’s Eve revelries.

. On Friday, National Capital Region Police Office chief Maj. Gen. Jonnel Estomo led the destruction of more than P700,000 worth of illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices confiscated in line with “Ligtas Paskuhan 2022” operations.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Prime Minister and his family. May she rest in peace,” Mr. Marcos said.

Heeraben passed away at the UN Mehta Heart Hospital in Ahmedabad in India early Friday. She was 100.

In a tribute to his mother, Modi said; “A glorious century rests at the feet of God... In Maa I have always felt that trinity, which contains the journey of an ascetic, the symbol of a selfless Karmayogi and a life committed to

Filipino consumers,” Pascual said.

He added that monitoring and inspection of onion prices will be a nationwide effort and will continue until next year.

The DTI price monitoring for red onion is in response to the call of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. and DA Circular No. 12 which places an SRP of P250 per kilogram of red onions in the markets.

The DA circular on the SRP on red onions will be in effect until the first week of January 2023.

Joel

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has joined world leaders in extending condolences to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the death of his mother.

extend

sincerest condolences to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the passing of his beloved mother, Heeraben Modi,” the President stated in

social media post on Saturday.

Mr. Marcos extends condolences to Modi

BLACK NAZARENE. Catholic devotees converge at the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene Church in Quiapo Manila as the most revered icon is taken out for a thanksgiving procession.

Danny Pata

Manny Palmero

BANNED ITEMS FOR NEW YEAR REVELRY. Quezon City Police District (QCPD) chief Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III leads the destruction of almost a million pesos worth of prohibited firecrackers and pyrotechnics seized by his men. The demolition held in Camp Karingal, Skatuna Village in Quezon City was conducted in collaboration with the Explosive and Ordnance Division and the Bureau of Fire Protection. Manny Palmero

ALBAY Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda on Saturday vowed to go after a Chinese syndicate controlling the supply of imported agricultural products in the Philippines.

seized

A Myanmar junta court sentenced Suu Kyi to seven years in prison for corruption on December 30, 2022, a legal source told AFP, ending the 18-month trial of the Nobel laureate. AFP

Suu Kyi jailed for total of 33 years

OUSTED Myanmar democracy leader

Aung San Suu Kyi was sentenced to another seven years in jail as her long series of trials ended on Friday, with the Nobel laureate now facing more than three decades behind bars.

A prisoner of the military since a coup last year, Suu Kyi, 77, has been convicted on every charge leveled against her ranging from corruption to illegally possessing walkie-talkies and flouting COVID restrictions.

She was jailed on Friday for seven years on five counts of corruption related to the hiring, maintaining and purchase of a helicopter for a government minister, a case in which she allegedly caused

“a loss to the state.”

Suu Kyi – sentenced to a total of 33 years following 18 months of court proceedings that rights groups have dismissed as a sham – appeared in good health, a legal source familiar with the case told AFP.

“All her cases are finished and there are no more charges against her,” said the source, who requested anonymity as they were not authorized to speak to the media.

Journalists have been barred from attending the hearings and Suu Kyi’s lawyers have been blocked from speaking to the media.

The road leading to the prison holding Suu Kyi in the military-built capital Naypyidaw was cleared of traffic ahead of the verdict, said an AFP correspondent in the city.

Former Myanmar president Win Myint, who was co-accused with Suu Kyi in the latest trial, received the same sentence, the source said, adding that both would lodge appeals.

Suu Kyi has been seen only once since her trial began – in grainy state media photos from a bare courtroom – and has been

reliant on lawyers to relay messages to the world.

Many in Myanmar’s democracy struggle, which Suu Kyi has dominated for decades, have abandoned her core principle of non-violence, with “People’s Defense Forces” clashing regularly with the military across the country.

The United States and the European Union condemned Suu Kyi’s sentencing, with Washington demanding her immediate release.

“The Burma military regime’s final sentencing of State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi is an affront to justice and the rule of law,” a State Department spokesperson in Washington said.

The EU said her trials had been politically motivated, and slammed Win Myint’s sentencing.

“These trials were carried forward with no respect for due legal procedure or necessary judicial guarantees and are a clear attempt to exclude democratically elected leaders from political life,” an EU spokesman in Brussels said.

Last week, the United Nations Security

Council called on the junta to release Suu Kyi in its first resolution on Myanmar since the coup.

It was a rare moment of relative unity by the council after permanent members and junta allies China and Russia abstained.

The corruption charges were “ridiculous,” said Htwe Htwe Thein, an associate professor at Curtin University in Australia.

“Nothing in Aung San Suu Kyi’s leadership, governance, or lifestyle indicates the smallest hint of corruption,” she said.

Richard Horsey of the International Crisis Group said the question now was what to do with Suu Kyi.

“Whether to allow her to serve out her sentence under some form of house arrest, or grant foreign envoys limited access to her,” Horsey said.

“But the regime is unlikely to be in any rush to make such decisions.”

The military alleged widespread voter fraud during elections in November 2020 that were won resoundingly by Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD), although international observers said the polls were largely free and fair. AFP

Nokor fires ballistic missiles capping record year of tests

NORTH Korea fired three short-range ballistic missiles Saturday, Seoul’s military said, adding a final salvo to Pyongyang’s record-breaking blitz of launches this year.

Military tensions on the Korean peninsula have risen sharply in 2022 as the North has conducted sanctions-busting weapons tests nearly every month, including firing its most advanced intercontinental ballistic missile ever.

POPE... The body of Benedict will be displayed from Monday morning in St Peter’s Basilica, to allow the faithful to pay their respects.

Crowds visiting St Peter’s on Saturday expressed sorrow at the news of his death, but also admiration.

“We are distraught,” said Davide Di Tommaso, 30, from the southern Italian region of Molise, adding: “He was truly a great pope.”

Tributes also began pouring in from around the world, with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hailing “a formative figure of the Catholic Church, an argumentative personality and a clever theologian.”

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed him as a “giant of faith and reason... a great figure in history.”

The German pope emeritus, whose birth name was Joseph Ratzinger, had been living a quiet life in a former convent inside the Vatican grounds since his shock decision to step down in February 2013.

His health had been declining for a long time, but the Vatican revealed on Wednesday that his situation had worsened, while Francis called for Catholics worldwide to pray for him.

In 2005 the body of John Paul II, the last pope to die, lay in state before a funeral mass in St Peter’s Square attended by one million people, including heads of state.

Benedict had almost entirely withdrawn from public view, his health reported to be shaky and the few photographs that emerged of him exposing his frailty.

Back in 2013, he had cited his declining physical and mental health in his decision to become the first pope since 1415 to give up the job as head of the worldwide Catholic Church.

Benedict was a brilliant theologian but his papacy was beset by Vatican in-fighting and a scandal over clerical sexual abuse of children that rocked the Catholic Church the world over, in which he was criticized for a lack of leadership.

The abuse scandal overshadowed

Saturday’s launch comes a day after South Korea successfully tested a solid-fuel space launch vehicle, and follows the incursion of five North Korean drones into the South’s airspace earlier in the week.

South Korea’s military said it had detected “three short-range ballistic missiles launched by North Korea into the East Sea from the area of Chunghwa County, North Hwanghae Province, at

his final months after a damning report for the German church in January 2022 accused him of personally failing to stop four predatory priests in the 1980s while archbishop of Munich.

He denied wrongdoing and the Vatican strongly defended his record in being the first pope to apologize for the scandals, who expressed his own “deep remorse” and met with victims.

Born on April 16, 1927 in Marktl am Inn, in Bavaria, Benedict was 78 when he succeeded the long-reigning and popular John Paul II in April 2005, the first German pope of the modern era.

He later said his election felt “like the guillotine.”

Unlike his successor Pope Francis, a Jesuit who delights in being among his flock, Benedict was a conservative intellectual dubbed “God’s Rottweiler” in a previous post as chief doctrinal enforcer.

His papacy was dogged by controversy, from comments that angered the Muslim world to a money-laundering scandal at the Vatican bank and a personal humiliation when, in 2012, his butler leaked secret papers to the media.

Despite saying he would live “hidden from the world” after his resignation, he repeatedly intervened on key issues facing the Church through books, interviews and articles.

CBCP... spiritually with his prayers,” he added.

David thanked all Filipino faithful who offered prayers and special Mass intentions for the late pontiff.

“We will fondly remember him, especially those among us bishops, who had been appointed by him to the episcopal ministry,” David said, noting that he himself was appointed bishop by Pope Benedict XVI.

Worldwide, tributes have poured in for the former pope, almost a decade after he became the first pontiff to resign in six centuries.

UN chief Antonio Guterres praised the former pontiff for his "tenacious commitment to non-violence and peace".

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said he would be remembered for "his efforts for global peace and the centrality of human beings' dignity" in his ideas.

around 08:00 (2300 GMT),” referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan.

The missiles flew about 350 kilometers (217 miles) before splashing down, it added.

“Our military maintains a full readiness posture while closely cooperating with the US and strengthening surveillance and vigilance,”the Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

Monday’s North Korean drone incursion

France's President Emmanuel Macron said the ex-pope "strove with soul and intelligence for a more brotherly world."

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz hailed his fellow countryman as a "special church leader" who helped shape the Catholic church.

"The world has lost a formative figure of the Catholic Church, an argumentative personality and a clever theologian," he said.

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed the former leader of the Catholic Church as a "giant of faith and reason." She described him as "a Christian, a pastor, a theologian, a great figure in history, that history will never forget." AFP

ALL... screening; 3) Submit reports of infected travelers from Points of Entry; 4) Inform travelers regarding COVID-19 infection prevention and control, and, 5) Coordinate with port and airport authorities and partners on identifying areas for display of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials.

The Department of Health earlier ordered the Bureau of Quarantine to heighten surveillance of all respiratory symptoms in travelers coming from China. Infected and symptomatic passengers should be reported during arrival, it said.

The DOH issued the statement after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. suggested requiring travelers from China to be tested for COVID-19.

The DOH said the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) has begun discussions on border control guidelines for travelers from China.

Over the weekend, the World Health Organization met Chinese officials for talks about the surge in COVID-19 cases, urging them to share real-time data so other countries can respond effectively.

The rise in infections in China has triggered concern around the globe and questions about its data reporting, with low official figures on cases and deaths despite some hospitals and morgues being overwhelmed.

‘LIBRENG... where to spend the P1.2 billion under the GAA so it can benefit more people.”

He said the agency was looking at

was the first such incident in five years and prompted an apology from Seoul’s defense minister after the military failed to shoot down a single drone despite scrambling jets for a five-hour operation.

South Korean president Yoon Suk-yeol called the incident “intolerable” and added that the South should ensure that Pyongyang realized that “provocations are always met with harsh consequences.” AFP

extending assistance to PUJ drivers who were affected by high oil prices and the impact of the pandemic.

However, Budget Undersecretary Goddes Hope Libiran insisted that the service contracting program would still be funded under the 2023 General Appropriations Act.

“As far as DBM is concerned, we confirm that service contracting is funded under the 2023 GAA,” Libiran told Manila Standard.

“We gave them funds to continue with the program until December 2022, in line with PBBM’s directive. I think the last [budget] release was in July or August.

For 2023, it is also funded. So, there is no problem. Maybe, they are just addressing the execution details,” said Libiran.

The LTFRB already issued Board Resolution No. 189 which provides for a fare box scheme for the EDSA Busway using the fare matrix/guide approved by the agency.

It said 550 public utility buses from two consortia would run along the EDSA Busway route.

GALLUP ... optimistic about 2023, with Poland, Czech Republic, Serbia, France, and Italy as the countries with the lowest level of optimism.

Earlier, a separate survey by the Social Weather Stations showed 95 percent of adult Filipinos are entering the New Year with hope.

The poll was two percentage points higher than the 93% recorded in 2021 and was also comparable to the pre-pandemic figure of 96% in 2019.

Five percent of the 1,200 respondents said they would enter 2023 with fear, down two points from 7% in 2020 and 2021.

The survey also showed that 74% of the respondents vowed to better themselves in the coming year, 20% said they would not change anything, and the remaining 6% did not give an answer.

PRESIDENT ... Before his appointment, Rodriguez served as Marcos’ head writer for traditional media during the presidential campaign.

The two took their oath of office before Mr. Marcos on Saturday.

Earlier this month, the President named lifestyle TV host and entrepreneur Daphne

15 people killed in Mexico bus crash, dozen injured

AT

The

“Fifteen people have been reported dead so far,” it said, adding that a dozen more were injured.

Images shared by the authorities on social media showed the bus overturned on the side of the road.

There were 48 passengers on the bus, according to local media.

Authorities said they were investigating the cause of the incident. AFP

Tehran airport bus crash leaves 1 dead

AT LEAST one person was killed and more than 30 were injured when two buses collided at Iran’s main international airport near the

“Unfortunately, in this incident we had one fatality,” a police official at Imam Khomeini International Airport told state TV.

“Over 30 people were injured in the incident,” the state broadcaster reported without specifying their nationalities.

The police official said that 11 of them were “severely injured.”

Imam

AFP

Deadly

Cambodian casino fire blamed on an electrical fault

AN ELECTRICAL fault caused a devastating casino fire that killed 26 people, Cambodian authorities said Saturday, with many of the bodies found in stairways or trapped in rooms after rescuers failed to reach them in time.

The blaze at the Grand Diamond City hotel-casino in Poipet town, near the Thai border, broke out around 11:30 pm local (0430 GMT) on Wednesday night.

It rampaged through the multi-storey casino-hotel complex, with dramatic images and rescuers telling of people forced to jump from ledges and windowsills to escape the flames.

“The accident was caused by an electrical short circuit,” said Kun Kim, deputy chairman of the National Committee for Disaster Management.

He confirmed that 26 people – 17 Thais, one Malaysian, and one Nepalese among them – died in the blaze.

“Some people were burnt to death, some died because of a lack of oxygen, and some were burnt and died along exit ways,” he said.

He said authorities took too long to put out the flames, blaming the hotel-casino’s complex layout, as well as a lack of rescue equipment.

Cambodian emergency teams called off their efforts Friday evening as night fell, with Kun Kim confirming teams had searched all of the complex. AFP

Oseña-Paez as his new “press briefer.”

TV ... “Barbara was a true legend, a pioneer not just for women in journalism but for journalism itself,” Iger said.

Walters won 12 Emmy awards, all but one while at ABC, the network said.

She largely retired from television after signing off in 2014 from the daytime program “The View,” which she had launched in 1997.

Walters created a much-copied template for high-profile political and celebrity interviews -- and blazed a trail for women in an industry run by white middle-aged men.

“How proud I am today when I see all the young women who are making and reporting the news,” Walters said on her last appearance on “The View.”

“If I did anything to help that happen, that’s my legacy.”

Her news career began in earnest in 1961 when she joined NBC’s breakfast news and entertainment show “Today.”

Walters became the first woman to anchor a US evening news program when she joined “ABC Evening News” in 1976, earning the then-unprecedented salary of $1 million a year.

Three years later, she was named co-host of the news magazine program “20/20,” beginning a run that would last more than two decades.

By the time she left TV, Walters had interviewed every US president and first lady since Richard Nixon.

‘LET’S ... Together, let us move full-steam ahead toward our goal of giving a better life to every Filipino family. I am confident that, by coming together, we can withstand and overcome all challenges and bring our nation to greater heights.

As we look forward to a fruitful and hopeful New Year, let us remain steadfast and united as ever as we ask for the Almighty’s continued guidance in our journey toward a better, brighter, and more prosperous future of our nation.

Muli, isang manigong at mapayapang Bagong Taon sa lahat!

DETAINED LEADER. In this file photo taken on March 13, 2021, an image of detained civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi is projected on a screen during a night-time demonstration by protesters against the military coup in Yangon.

capital Tehran, state media reported.

Khomeini airport is Tehran’s primary international airport, located about 30 kilometers (20 miles) southwest of the capital.

FromtheFRONTPAGE

LEAST 15 people were killed in western Mexico on Friday when the bus they were traveling in flipped over and crashed, local authorities said.

victims were tourists on their way back to the city of Leon in the central state of Guanajuato when the accident happened in the state of Nayarit, according to a statement from the authorities.

IT ALL started with shoes. Her dream was to shod people of all genders and sizes with just the perfect touch… just the perfect design…. just the perfect fit.

“I want my creations to be inclusive to all. I’m a plus woman and while fashion continues to evolve with increasing level of inclusivity, it is still not kind to people like us. In many cases, we settle for less than what we deserve or less than what we expect, for lack of option. And most of the time, we ended up buying men’s shoes if nothing fits (us),” says Kurbang Lokal owner Hazel Dellosa Dolot.

Kurbang Lokal is another enterprise born during pandemic. It started in 2020 as a shoe enterprise but lack of insight caused the business to go under.

Lacking the skills to market her product, Dolot sold online through her brand website, a move that was not only expensive but also inefficient. Without an active partnership with logistics firms, her products were priced higher due to more expensive delivery charges. She also covered the losses of product returns and exchanges that added to her woes.

In retrospect, Dolot admitted she regretted not having a detailed feasibility study before she indulged into the business and it was by sheer whim she pushed for a project that cost her hundreds of thousands of capital at a time when many businesses fail and hers is just another sad story to add to countless of anecdotes of frustrated ventures.

“I had a hard time looking for a supplier that will cater up to plus size. And if that part wasn’t difficult enough, I had problems in costing and pricing that really had my business reeling. That was in December 2020. In January 2021, I pivoted,” she said.

What she lost in her first project, she took in a stride. That mindset allowed her to move on and boosted her confidence for a second attempt into retail fashion, this time, into the bags segment.

Like her footwear, Dolot and Kurbang Lokal bags proudly carry the Marikina brand of ingenious craftsmanship. Marikina is where many locally-distinguished wearables are manufactured. She said that whenever she sees Marikina-made products, they spark a little fire of hope for small enterprisers like her.

When contemplating on the specifics of what to offer, she thought of the millennial working class, the women, men and the gay community whose active lifestyle could be best complemented with similarly hard working yet trendy satchels that can hold several essentials at a time.

The initial batch of satchels were laptop bags, all unisex and gender-encompassing, and another bag design for the more feminine and sub-feminine genders. The bags are crafted from polyurethane (PU) material, a good substitute for genuine leather, but thrice, or even, 4 times more affordable than bags made from animal hide.

The bags are lightweight but well built, strong enough to hold up to 6 to 7 kilograms of contents. To manage expectations from

Accessory start-up pushes for gender inclusivity

buyers, the brand assures customers that the bags, particularly the laptop satchels, are custom made with 4 kilos carrying capacity. All handmade, the bags are supported with high-grade materials and superb sewing skills of the production team.

What is striking about the product apart form its elegant pastel colors and subdued basic colors of tan, mahogany and shades of brown, is the expert craftsmanship that is evident in every style and in every single item on the shelf.

The brand has sported over a dozen bag designs in a short span nearing two years in January. A few have either been phased out or redesigned, but the brand always carries a minimum of 8 designs, at any given time.

Kurbang Lokal also offers smaller products like coin purse, card holder, bag organizers and removable sling straps for bags.

Bag production is tedious, says Dolot. “It takes us about month or two to come up with the prototype and another month to

mass produce. The process of revision and quality checking is repeated over and over for every design until the item is finalized and perfected.”

The decision to pivot to bags changed the course of her business and by February 2021, all her stocks were sold out. A month later, instead of sourcing ready-made designs that are open-branding, Dolot decided to buy the most popular designs she commissioned in her first attempt at bags rebranding and later on, fabricated her own designs in collaboration with her production team to create pieces that are pleasing to the senses yet gratifyingly durable.

Kurbang Lokal production staff are all based in Marikina City while storage and delivery are in the City of Manila, a location the owner finds more strategic for its proximity to other cities and adjacent provinces, especially for same day deliveries.

Her 3-room storage area, located in Intramuros, Manila serves as her showroom

to clients who are insistent on checking the details of the products physically. And some buy on the spot.

This time, instead of selling through her website, she pushed her products in online marketplaces like Lazada, Shopee and throughout Facebook and Instagram. That also resolved concerns on shipping fees and other delivery issues. Tiktok which is a very popular app for all age groups is another virtual marketplace Kurbang Lokal is keenly looking at.

Dolot said she is very thankful to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for introducing the concept of bazaars and trade fairs.

“They (DTI) initiated to help market my products through roving bazaars, free of charge. This was my first attempt to show my products in a physical set-up. And it worked for me and its been tradition and a recurring practice to purposely join DTI-sponsored fairs. Sales from bazaars have been good and

I make sure to man the booth and assess for myself crowd interest in my products. That convinced me to join commercial bazaars,” she shared.

She remembered the first time the DTI invited her to join a government-sponsored pop-up bazaar in Lucky China Town. With an appreciative crowd, Kurbang Lokal went back to the same mall 5 times since then, selling in paid booths.

“In fact, I really enjoy joining bazaars and trade fairs, because I’m proud of my products and I enjoy entertaining prospective buyers. It’s a different feel when you see your clients physically there looking at and feeling your products from just providing details through chat. And this also works well for me, to materially showcase my bags as against the virtual space where photos can be edited,” she added.

Kurbang Lokal actively joins mentorship programs organized by the DTI and Go Negosyo where it found a community of merchants with similar journeys and similar stories, who willingly share and provide advise to new entrepreneurs. The mentorship presented opportunities to enterprises such as partnerships, possible source of raw materials, joint promotions and marketing collaborations.

“That meant a lot to start-up enterprises like mine. While listening to their experiences, I noticed similarities of what I’ve been through. And with their experiences, I now have prior knowledge to where my decisions will lead me. I get to self-check my own journey and avoid circumstances that will compromise me and my business,” Dolot said, noting the amount of knowledge she had amassed now compared from when she started her footwear business.

With a growing population of loyal clients, Kurbang Lokal plans to level up its line-up. It will soon launch its genuine leather collection for the finicky crowd who are willing to pay the extra cost for an upgrade.

A set of existing designs are now in its prototyping stage. Kurbang Lokal plans to release the genuine leather pieces in the first quarter of 2023, 2 years after the brand pivoted to producing exquisite, quality bags.

Dolot noted that her product line attracts not only the working class millennials but the more mature clients, as well. This is her target market for her genuine leather collection.

The brand is also interested to branch out into apparels, with emphasis on inclusivity as its selling point. There is no specific timeline for the apparel segment but things are happening fast for the start-up. It will not be a surprise if it unveils its apparel line in the next 2 to 3 years.

Noting how cutthroat the competition these days are, especially among similar homegrown products, the brand made sure it is always a step ahead against competitors by crafting more designs, upgrading the line-up and revisiting previous endeavors, hoping to find another gem among the memories.

Dolot said she has never given up on her first love. It may take the backseat at the moment, but the brand will find time to revive the inclusive shoe project soon.

“I learned to never give up on what we want or what we desire the most. Things will happen if we strive to work for it. If we fail, we can try again. The missteps we have will remind us to never go that same path again,” she said.

Othel V. Campos

Benguet farmers embrace technology to increase income

Testimonials from the

group showed how the foundation assisted farmers like Emilia Kio-an, a member of SG Farmers Association and owner of Alredo’s Farm in Benguet, recovered her livelihood that was disrupted by the pandemic. Due to lockdown and closures, she and her fellow farmers struggled to find ways to sell their fresh farm products, leaving them with much lower sales and lots of food waste.

“We cannot go out to sell our vegetables and we have products that got spoiled in our farm. Before, producing food was quite difficult because of facilities we used. Now we have facilities provided by Aboitiz Foundation and Hedcor, and they also provided us with financial assistance,” she shared.

‘Byaheng Digiskarte’ is an advocacy project that orients farmers to become digitally literate and leverage the benefits of technology to optimize production and increase their income.

As one of the project’s beneficiaries, the association received a food processing facility and its members started on training courses, starter kits, and equipment. Through the project, Kio-an was able to expand her line of products beyond fresh farm produce.

After a series of training sessions under the program, Kioan started to put her learnings to test. she started a simple process of drying ampalaya into tea and manufacturing ampalaya pickles, in addition to selling fresh farm produce like ampalaya, french beans, lemon grass, turmeric, and pandan leaves.

“When we were training, instead of throwing (vegetables) away, we got what was to be discarded and processed it so

nothing was wasted. Instead of having waste, we now have more products,” she said.

Through the project, Emilia and fellow agripreneurs were also able to go beyond local market stalls and serve a broader range of customers by opening their own online shops through Session Groceries, an e-commerce platform that connects farmers to sellers and delivers products to clients’ doorsteps.

Orders are made through the platform and farmers are immediately prompted for new orders. They harvest the crops and arrange delivery straight at the doorsteps of customers from Benguet, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, and Metro

Manila.

“We are grateful to Aboitiz for partnering with Session Groceries and SG Farmers Association. It is an honor to be included and to receive equipment for the farmers,” said Session Groceries CEO Iloisa Romaraog-Diga.

“It’s not easy to start and sustain but because of the opportunities provided by groups like you, everything becomes easy. We will try to do well in what we do so we can also be a blessing to other people and the community we serve just like you,” she added Association members learned to add value to crops especially during seasons when harvest is at its peak and bountiful. What can de discarded as produce is converted into a commodity with value that increases farmer’s income.

‘Byaheng Digiskarte’ provided many firsts and milestones for agripreneurs. Aside from learning how to process produce and venture online, they were also able to open their very first bank accounts through UnionBank which allows seamless online transactions with customers and helps them manage their finances.

“At first we did not have smartphones, we only used a keypad phone. Now we have to use digital [tools] like applications and going online),” Emilia said.

With a physical and online market, new food processing facilities, and an online bank account, agripreneurs are able to grow their business and are now more equipped to adapt to changing times, ready for an emerging digital future.

‘Byaheng Digiskarte’ is a flagship project of the Enterprise Development Program of Aboitiz Foundation designed to help in the recovery and growth of MSMEs and cooperatives that were affected during the pandemic. Its partners include AboitizPower subsidiary Hedcor Inc., UnionBank, Session Groceries, One Concord Food Solutions, and SG Farmers Association, Inc.

Survey highlights Filipinos’ penchant for all things fried

FRYING food is one of the most common and preferred cooking methods in the Philippines because of its convenience and affordability. This holiday season, Packworks’ Sari IQ, in collaboration with Fourth Wall, a sociocultural research firm, has found out that products related to fried food are on the top of the shopping list of Filipinos in their favorite sarisari stores.

Comparative data obtained from Sari IQ on December 1 to 14, between 2021 and 2022, showed that among all holiday season products, packaged sauce or “sawsawan” has the highest consumption rate, with a significant increase of 8 percent. Breading and coating mixed came second at 7 percent, while cooking oil, remains at the third top spot with a 5 percent increase.

Mondelez

People lead for Mondelez Philippines Aileen Aumentado shared that company’s goal has always been to create more growth opportunities for people in the organization, no matter their role and ensure a safe space where they can thrive, excel, and be their best selves.

We are happy to share our innovative approaches to equal recruitment with our diversity hiring scheme and extensive support for all our workers. We push these initiatives to address specific needs for both male and female employees, including equal pay and treatment, equal career development, and equal leadership opportunities. We commit to being stronger through our diverse, inclusive, and connected community―trusting each other to work flexibly and productively,” she said.

By providing ample opportunities for personal and professional growth, investing in employees, and actively hiring people with diverse backgrounds, Mondelez Philippines has continuously built a strong and winning culture for its people. These things make people working with Mondelez Philippines happy and proud to be part of its community.

Despite economic downturns and shifts throughout the year, the company continues to empower people to snack right, while ensuring the well-being of employees.

Mondelez has curated a set of personal development program to keep their employees happy, these include Purpose Days, Flexible Working Policy, Growing Here Weeks, and other talent training and programs for early careers, midprofessionals, and senior leaders.

In a survey conducted within the organization, employees feel valued and appreciated. The results also noted many employees believe that the company provides a safe space for learning and growth whereby cross-functional collaboration, different skills, and proficiency are valued.

Honda PH wins Auto Focus awards

HONDA Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) received multiple recognitions in the recently concluded 2022 to 2023 Auto Focus People’s & Media’s Choice Awards (AFPMCA) held mid-December 2022.

Now in its 18th year, AFPMCA is an annual awardgiving ceremony, organized by Sunshine Television and Marketing Services, Inc. (STV). The Media’s Choice Awards aims to further recognize the automotive industry’s efforts by providing car buyers and owners information that would help them in their vehicle purchase decision.

“We are grateful to everyone at the Auto Focus People’s & Media’s Choice Awards for recognizing Honda particularly the Brio, City Hatchback, Civic, All-New HR-V, and Accord. These awards give us more inspiration in our efforts to realize “Safety for Everyone” while also providing the joy and freedom of mobility through our products and services.” said Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. president Masahiko Nakamura.

Select motoring media determine awardees in 4 categories: Best Design, Best Engine Performance, Best Safety Features, and Best Value for Money.

During the annual event, 5 Honda automobiles received awards for Best Design, Best Engine Performance, and Best Safety Features. These are the Brio, City Hatchback, Civic, Accord, and the All-New HR-V. The awards signify Honda’s innovative design and dynamic driving performance that also delivers outstanding fuel efficiency. The recognitions garnered through the years affirm Honda’s

commitment to a collision-free society, represented by the global safety slogan “Safety for Everyone”.

Bagging 3 awards, the Honda Brio won the Best Design, Best Engine Performance, and Best Safety Features in the Standard Mini Hatchback segment. With its sleek and sporty design, safety features, fun-to-drive character, and efficient fuel consumption of 24.39 km/l, the Brio proves to be a solid choice in the passenger car segment.

Winning the Best Safety Features award in the Standard Subcompact Hatchback segment is the Honda City Hatchback. Given its array of safety features such as the vehicle stability assist (VSA), and a 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, customers are offered top-notch safety performance with more peace of mind and joy for each drive.

The Honda Civic, on the other hand, received 3 awards, namely, Best Design, Best Engine Performance, and Best Safety Features in the Standard Compact Sedan category. Its VTEC Turbo engine and Honda SENSING suite of safety features that come standard across all variants, with a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating, reflect the iconic sedan’s position as the leader in the C-segment over the years.

Recently launched in April 2022, the All-New Honda HR-V won the Best Safety Features award in the Standard Subcompact SUV/Crossover segment. The all-new HR-V comes with Honda SENSING across all variants and likewise earned a 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, providing comprehensive protection for all vehicle occupants.

“At a sociocultural level, Filipinos prefer fried foods because of its association to sawsawan and the culture it breeds. The sawsawan culture epitomizes the communal nature of eating for us, Filipinos – that is, eating is more than just consuming good food, but forging long-lasting connections with others,” said Fourth Wall research director John Brylle L. Bae.

Meanwhile, products related to fruit salads experienced no significant change. Evaporated milk increased by 2 percent, while condensed milk declined by -1 percent. Other fruit salad-related products have experienced drastic declines, including all-purpose cream at -11 percent and canned fruits at -16 percent, suggesting that Filipinos are giving up fruit salads on their holiday table this year.

Moreover, the demand for sugar and seasonings has considerably gone low. Sugar declined by 9 percent and seasonings by 33 percent, which shows that Filipinos are becoming more conscious about their diet –even during the holiday season.

“Our analysis further suggests that on holiday seasons, Filipinos are willing to forgo salads and sweets, but they are struggling to let go of fried foods. The aversion to sugars and salads comes from high inflation, growing concerns on diabetes, and increasing health consciousness. Meanwhile, the propensity for fried foods comes from practical considerations (convenient and economical) but also from a much deeper sociocultural consideration,” Bae explained.

Quoting from a popular essayist Andre Orandain, Packworks IQ and Fourth Wall recognize Filipino eating culture as participative and communal.

“It asks and implores one to touch the food, not only to consume but also to partake. To allow ourselves to connect with the things we eat on a deeper, more spiritual level. It asks us to treat food intimate. [Therefore] The sawsawan is one of the most important facets of this trait. It defines the very structure of Filipino culture. It shows us how we adapt, how we change, how we are hospitable, and how we love to please. It is many things all at once, but more importantly, it shows how much of a reflection food is.”

n OTHEL V. CAMPOS, Issue Editor | email: extrastory2000@gmail.com

ABOITIZ Foundation Inc.’s ‘Byaheng Digiskarte’ has partnered with Benguet-based SG Farmers Association to help farmers rebound from the spoils of pandemic by helping association members pivot digitally into the virtual marketplace.

farmer

Philippines is among the recipients of the Best Companies to Work For in 2022 by HR Asia. The organization has won the prestigious award for 3 consecutive years since 2020.

n By PETER ATENCIO

ALOT is in store for sprinter Leonelyn Compuesto following the success of the Masbate Athletics team in the recently concluded Philippine Sports Commission-organized Batang Pinoy National Championships in Vigan, Ilocos Sur.

Athletics is set to become the flagship program of the Masbate Sports Academy after its student-athletes collected a total of 11 golds, six silvers, and seven bronzes to claim the no. 1 position and dominate track and field competitions.

“Tuluy-tuloy na ang athletics. Ito na ang magiging flagship program namin,” said Department of Education Division Sports Coordinator and the current OIC Principal of Masbate Sports Academy Rufino Arellano after witnessing the exploits of team Masbate in the Ilocos Sur.

The 15-year-old Compuesto was the fastest runner after sweeping all her five events, bagging her first three gold medals in the 200m, 400m, and 4x100m relay events, before ruling the girls’ 100-meter dash, and anchoring her team to win the 4x400m relay on the final day.

Born and raised in the town of Placer, Compuesto 13.11.103 seconds to edge Schenley Faye Ombid of South Cotabato (13.11.109) and Angel Villagracia of Capiz (13.47) who settled for silver and bronze, respectively during her fourth event, the 100-meter sprints.

Then, she and her teammates, first-timers Realyn Lanuza, Jesalyn Materdan, and Alessandra Capellan, took the 4x400m relay in 4:14.96.

They beat Loraine Batalla’s Calamba City squad, who were far behind at 4:29.30 at the Quirino Stadium oval.

Laguna settled for the silver in 4:29.30 and Biñan bagged the bronze in 4:35.77 minutes.

Arellano said their Academy started

HOBBIES & COLLECTIONS

Masbate aims to become athletics hotbed

accepting student-athletes last March, after House Bill 1125 of Cong. Wilson Ty Kho was finally enacted.

And Compuesto and her teammates were among the first 20 who were initially accepted into the academy.

MORE SPORTS

“Ito na ang resulta ng pagsimula ng Academy,” said Arellano, who added that they will soon expand to chess and arnis next year, and football in the secondary level.

Masbate’s other gold medal efforts came from Jireh Rance (boys 800-meters), the 1-2 finish of Realyn Lanuza in the 200-meter girls’ sprints, Courtney Trangia in the girls’ discus throw, and Prince Branzuela in the

boys’ discus throw. Also shining is ninth-grader Alessandra Capellan settled for second place to Pangasinan’s Marjorie Ragudos in the girls’ high jump, with Ragudos clearing 1.30 meters, and Capellan leaping to 1.25 meters.

“This is very impressive dahil naibigay nila ang best nila dahil nakuha nila ang target time and distance nila,” said athlete-turned coach Regine Batoy-Librando, a triple gold medallist in the 2018 Philippine National Games in Cebu.

Compuesto and many of her teammates will again be back in the 2023 Palarong Pambansa, which is slated in Marikina City this April, along with a stint in the 2023 Asian Youth Athletics

Championships slated from April 27-30 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Baguio emerged as the top finisher in the weeklong meet for athletes aged 15 years and below, with its haul of 31-30-39 gold-silver-bronze medals, with closest rivals Pasig City (22-12-14) and Quezon City (21-10-15) in second and third.

Archery produced 11 gold, 8 silver, and 9 bronze medals, taekwondo brought home an 8-4-6 medal tally, and Muay Thai with 5-3-4. Baguio claimed championships in 2018 and 2019.

What’s in store for Masbate?

Compuesto, along with her teammates will next join the national athletics team that will compete in the 2023 Asian Youth Athletics Championships slated

“Based on their strong performances, they are at the top of the shortlist. They only need continuous guidance and encouragement,” said Kho in a statement.

Aside from Compuesto, Mico Villaran, a standout from Romanito Maravilla National High School emerged as among the top medallists in the boys division, capturing gold medals in the 100-meter, 200-meter, and 400-meter hurdles.

Thai completes comeback to foil Malixi in Florida golf

stretch from No. 4 to pull within one off Kotchasanmanee, but failed to match the latter’s clutch birdie on No. 11 and settled for a 70 and a 286.

Kotchasanmanee produced a couple of three-birdie sprees in the first nine holes, turning a three-stroke deficit into a one-shot lead and the Thai stayed in control the rest of the way on her way to completing a triumphant comeback for a two-stroke victory over the Filipina ace on a 284 total.

Malixi didn’t fare badly with a frontside 34 but a slew of flubbed birdie chances on both sides of the par-72 layout ruined her drive for a seventh championship in the season. She bounced back strong from a missed green miscue on No. 3 with four birdies in a seven-hole

James celebrates b-day with 47 points to spark Lakers win

It was his first 40-point effort of the season, the second achieved in a birthday contest and the 70th 40-point performance of his spectacular 20-season NBA career.

Even more amazing, teammates were congratulating him for saying before the game he would deliver a 40-point birthday beatdown against the Hawks.

“I called it,” James said. “I told them before the game. I had to make it happen. After starting 1-for-5 I didn’t know if it was going to happen.”

James, playing his third game in four nights, actually began shooting 1-for-6 but finished 18-of-27 from the floor, 4-of-6 from 3-point range, and 7-of-9 from the free throw line.

“I didn’t even know it was three in four nights. I just knew I had to get my mind and body ready to go,” James said. “Make sure my body stays fresh but my mind more importantly.”

James became only the fourth player in NBA history to score 45 points in a game at age 38 or older, joining Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Jamal Crawford.

The Hawks, powered by 29 points from Trae Young, led by as many as 15 points in the first half before James rallied the Lakers, scoring 16 points in the second and fourth quarters and 13 in the third.

The only birthday contest in which James scored more points was when he got 48 against Atlanta in 2009.

James, only one assist shy of the NBA’s first birthday triple double, is on pace to overtake Abdul-Jabbar and become the NBA’s all-time scoring leader in February.

The Lakers (15-21) were without star big man Anthony Davis, out with a foot injury.

Having his wife, mother and many other relatives and friends watching helped inspire James.

“It’s a treat,” James said. “To have them here and support me on the road, on my birthday, is very important to me because they are the rock of everything I do, my mom and my wife and my family.”

Pelicans beat 76ers

The night’s best 1-2 punch came at New Orleans, where

McCollum hit 13-of-20 from the floor, including a record 11 3-pointers on 16 shots from beyond the arc, while Williamson netted 13-of-19 shots from the floor.

Joel Embiid scored 37 in a losing cause with James Harden adding 20 points and 10 assists for the 76ers (20-14).

The Pelicans improved to 23-12 to keep a share of the Western Conference lead with Denver, which outlasted visiting Miami 124119.

Nuggets, Warriors win

Serbian center Nikola Jokic had a triple double with 19 points, 12 rebounds and 12 assists to spark Denver, which had eight double-digit scorers. Tyler Herro led Miami with 26 points.

Jordan Poole scored 41 points, Klay Thompson added 31 and the defending NBA champion Golden State Warriors closed the game on a 16-2 run to beat visiting Portland 118-112.

The Warriors stretched their win streak without injured Stephen Curry to four games while Damian Lillard scored 34 points to pace Portland.

“I played fine today (Friday). I know that I had put up a good fight the first nine holes but the opponent did better,” said Malixi, who birdied Nos. 4 and 5 after dropping a stroke on the third and rolled in an eight-footer on the seventh to hold sway.

But Kotchasanmanee, who birdied No. 3 for a two-shot swing then matched Malixi’s birdies in the next two, chipped in for birdie on No. 7 to fuel another three-birdie run, tieing the latter at five-under overall on the eighth and seizing the lead on the next as Malixi’s missed back-to-back birdie opportunities.

“I gave a lot of my putts really good

chances but not enough to clinch the title,” said Malixi, whose campaign is supported by ICTSI. “It’s still a fun week and knowing that I played consistently the past three days, this is a good start for this trip.”

She will next play in the Women’s Orlando International Amateur on Jan. 4-6 at the Orange Country National then heads to the Annika Invitational on Jan. 15-17 at the Eagle Creek Golf Club, also in Orlando.

Malixi, who also placed second in the Malaysian Amateur Open two weeks ago, had looked forward to nailing the crown after gaining a two-shot lead over Morocco’s Sofia Essakali and Megan Meng of the US after 54 holes on back-toback 69s. But Kotchasanmanee cashed in on her fine form, dished out a tournament-best output and spoiled another Malixi crack at glory.

Fighters League slates challenger series

THE Professional Fighters League (PFL), the fastest-growing and most innovative sports league, has announced the 2023 PFL Challenger Series Heavyweight competitors and bouts. The PFL Challenger Series is an eight-night competition that will stream exclusively on Fubo Sports, the live, free-to-consumer TV network from FuboTV Inc. (NYSE: FUBO), the leading sportsfirst live TV streaming platform.

The Challenger Series airs live on Friday nights, beginning January 27 in primetime through March 17, and held on the backlot of Universal Studios Florida in Orlando, Florida, with fighters looking to earn the opportunity to compete for a world championship and $1 million winner’s purse.

The main event of the Heavyweight card will see Giacomo Lemos and Danilo Marques, two Brazilians, match up in the PFL SmartCage for a bout that’s sure to bring fireworks. Lemos previously fought in the 2022 PFL Challenger Series, and will look to continue his winning ways after he earned an impressive victory via knockout in his debut. Marques fights out of Sao Paulo and trains at Vila da Luta, the same gym as Demian Maia and Vanessa Melo. Marques is an experienced fighter with eight career wins in the first round, and has an 83% finish rate, with four knockouts and six submissions.

“As the PFL looks ahead to the new year, we are thrilled to reveal

our Heavyweight division for the 2023 PFL Challenger Series, which will be held for a second straight year at Universal Studios Florida,” said PFL President of Fighter Operations, Ray Sefo.

“We’re looking forward to streaming the PFL Challenger Series Heavyweight competition from Universal Studios Florida once again,” said Pamela Duckworth, head of Fubo Networks and originals, FuboTV. “Fubo Sports is the only place fans can catch all of the action from the Challenger Series competition.”

Greg “The Viking King” Velasco, an American wrestling specialist, was a former NCAA D-1 wrestler at Rider University and owns an 80% finish rate with a 5 -1 professional record. Velasco will look to make a statement in his PFL debut against Brazilian Vitor Resende, who owns a 100% finish rate with three of his wins coming in the first round. Resende, who stands 6’9”, trains out of the world-famous American Top Team gym in Coconut Creek, Florida.

LEBRON James celebrated his 38th birthday by scoring a season-high 47 points, grabbing 10 rebounds and adding nine assists to spark the Los Angeles Lakers to a 130-121 victory in Atlanta on Friday.

THANANA Kotchasanmanee sizzled early and dominated the Sun ‘N Lake layout with a seven-under 65, scuttling another Rianne Malixi bid for a crown in the Citrus Golf Trail Ladies Invitational in Sebring, Florida Friday.

LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers promised a 40-point production on his birthday and did it against the Hawks. AFP

the Pelicans got 42 points from C.J. McCollum and 36 by Zion Williamson to beat Philadelphia 127-116 for their fifth consecutive victory.

from April 27-30 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association secretary-general Edward Kho said they are among the athletes whom they have shortlisted to compete internationally.

Rianne Malixi failed to bag her seventh golf crown for the season but it was still a banner year for the Filipina ace.

Leonelyn Compuesto (middle), surrounded by fellow athletes and able coaches, is making a name for herself in athletics.

Student-athletes from the Masbate Sports Academy proved to be a force to reckon with in the recent Batang Pinoy competition in Ilocos Sur.

Fvibrant, and innovative ensembles blend into the hybrid lifestyle post-pandemic, according to the fashion predictions of giant trend forecaster WGSN, comprised of a team of over 250 experts and data scientists that curate an immense online library of insights and inspirations in fashion, retail and the whole lifestyle industry.

“Trends were more relaxed in 2022 as we all transitioned into the new normal. But 2023 trends are bolder, more expressive, and at the same time, functional,” started fashion designer and industry expert Abrahan Lim educator at the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde School of Environment and Design.

She noted that consumers are now wiser and have become more conservative with their purchases. For women’s wear, upcycled shirts

Plays, social commentaries

cinematographer of Karnal, said that lighting was a challenge in making the film and they had to do workarounds, such as using garden lights due to a lack of good quality studio lights and generators.

There are many more such gems that are interesting for filmmakers seeking to learn techniques as well as for film historians wanting to know more about the contexts the films were made and shown in.

* * *

Recently proclaimed National Artist for

and

Ricky Lee is well known for his many searing films on Philippine life, showing it in all its unvarnished honesty.

Since 1973, he has written some 200 screenplays and received more than 70 trophies and recognition for his work.

Film buffs and students as well as fans of Lee will be pleased to know that they may now own copies of screenplays of six of his most popular films in the books Mga Screenplay ni Ricky Lee, with Volume 1 (354 pgs.) containing Brutal Moral, and Karnal and Volume 2 (318 pgs.) with Himala Cain at Abel, and Salome

The books contain not only the screenplays themselves but also Lee’s notes on the making of the films.

For instance: about the film Moral, directed by Marilou Diaz Abaya, Lee writes that it was shown uncensored at the 1982 Metro Manila Film Festival, in a version that was 2 hours and 20 minutes long. However, a censored version was the one approved for regular screenings in theaters, with over 20 minutes of scenes with sexual or political references cut. Moral won best screenplay at the festival. In a 2019 survey, it gained the top rank among best Filipino films directed by women.

In another section of notes, Lee writes that for another film, they faked a placenta in a childbirth scene with boiled chicken intestines and syrup. There are also recollections of other people involved in making the films. Manolo Abaya, the

Those of us of a certain age who have difficulty understanding, much less bonding, with our millennial children and employees will want to read Rethinking

Filipino Millennials: Alternative Perspectives on a Misunderstood Generation (2020), a collection of essays.

Edited by Dr. Jayeel Cornelio, director of the Development Studies Program at the Ateneo de Manila University, the book contains “the empirical work of 17 scholars…[that] presents an alternative view” of millennials, who have often been categorized unfairly as hedonistic and self-entitled. There is always more to it than the stereotype. The essays in this book help unpack what millennials aspire to, believe in, and dream about.

A wide variety of topics are tackled. In “The ‘Chemical Lives’ of Young Filipinos,” Dr. Gideon Lasco looks at how young people use chemicals and for what purposes. Some common themes he found are chemicals as body enhancers (“to look good” – pampaganda pampa-sexy), as mood enhancers (“to feel good” – illicit substances), and as performance enhancers (“to work better” – coffee, energy drinks, shabu).

In “Millenial MSM and the Alter Community,” S. Piamonte, M. Quintos, and M. Iwayama look at a subgroup that engages in “exhibitionism and promiscuous sex mediated [by] online communication.” Millennials figure into the equation because of their familiarity with technology and association with casual sex.

2023 Fashion Trends: Versatility, quality, functionality

and unfinished hems will be in, as they become more “Consumers push for circularity, especially with the economic recession,” Abrahan Lim explained. “Fashion will be greatly influenced by popular hacks and tutorials cling will produce more sustainable and less harmful garments, not to mention a boost in creativity and 2023 likewise bids adieu to the above-the-keyboard dressing, which was a hit amid the height of

emerge, pieces that are easy for casual gathering but are still suitable for flexibility,” Abrahan Lim stated.

“Layering is key for transitioning from day to party.”

For this category, she advised silky pieces and subtle yet feminine details, such as gatherings and sexy cutouts. Lingerie designs, sheer garments, slip dresses, and corsets with accents also pitch in a more interesting texture into that day-tonight look.

For a more youth-focused approach, statement biker jackets with boxy silhouettes and vibrant racer overalls make for a comfortable, gender-inclusive investment that can go from season to season.

Soft utility likewise goes for all, as the new year ushers in a braver approach to practical elements. For ladies, apparel with sporty silhouettes and softer materials is in. Fashion-forward cargo that offers roomy and detachable belt pockets provides a more futuristic look, especially when paired with modish mini bags. The same movements apply to gentlemen, as their wardrobe gets more experimental with new masculine identities and gender-inclusive themes.

Vacationcore now reigns the racks as travel goes back to normal. The women’s section is all about coords in more polished looks and vibrant prints that scream holiday. The menswear department joins in with smarter loungewear that can go from home to city to carefree trips.

As textile innovations focus on quality rather than quantity, elevated basics are also back with micro textures on the spotlight. With redefined and interesting fabrication and volume, tailored apparel and familiar silhouettes are made more premium. Outdoor hats, bejeweled belts, oversized earrings, and hair claws are back on the accessory list. “Crystals and charms give a great boost to a party look – ready for celebrations,” Abrahan Lim beamed.

“Still following last year’s joyful expression, these added elements in your wardrobe will champion mood-boosting aesthetic and nostalgia.”

Spending the festive season in Hong Kong

Daily Inquirer, and the New York Times

On former president Rodrigo Duterte, Santos writes, a month before he was elected to national office: “In all my 50 years as a voter, I’ve seen no one like him and nothing like the groundswell of following he has inspired. He has found his constituency of foul-mouthed, bellicose adorers…”

Five years later, October 2021, he had found a handle on Duterte, characterizing him thusly: “He is repression, he is militarization, he is terrorism. He is EJK (extrajudicial killings). He is corruption. He is China. He is the pandemic – by his incompetent, uncaring, self-aggrandizing response to it, he has made life more miserable all around than the coronavirus can do by itself.”

The columns reprinted here are all documentation and are of interest to historians and students of history who want a contextualized overview of an era that shook the country (and not in a good way).

Dr. Ortuoste is a board member of PEN Philippines, a member of the Manila Critics Circle, and a judge of the National Book Awards. You may find the author on Facebook and Twitter: @DrJennyO

“Every

“This year, we

-

Kong to travelers worldwide,” Cheng added.

Infused with a citywide festive atmosphere, Hong Kong aims to be the best city to spend Christmas and usher in the New Year.

HKTB’s WinterFest levels up this Christmas

A host of interactive experiences and IGworthy spots greets visitors this WinterFest 2022. Witness the city’s tallest outdoor Christmas tree set right in front of the iconic Victoria Harbour and a coastal European-style Christmas Town also welcomes visitors at the Art Park of West Kowloon Cultural District. Day or night, the scene is breathtaking and perfect for photos.

At night, the Christmas Town takes on a dreamy, romantic atmosphere perfect for families and friends to enjoy together.

On the other end of the West Kowloon Cultural District Art Park, a Christmas Wonderland transports locals and visitors alike to a series of Christmas-themed lodges. Visit a snow-clad kingdom, an enchanting candy house, and a nostalgic childhood home among others.

Spectacular performances and a series of DIY workshops will also guarantee you take home new memories and treats for your loved ones.

Spectacular Multimedia Show to light up Victoria Harbour

With the iconic Hong Kong skyline as the backdrop, the exuberant celebrations begin with a succession of live performances. A 3D animated short film also lights up the harbor, leading to a countdown on the façade of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) that transforms into a giant clock face, counting down the last 30 seconds of 2022.

As the clock ticks to midnight, a sensational 10-minute multimedia show lights up the sky. A myriad of dancing lights projected from different locations along the harbor front and moving lights beamed from Star Ferry vessels paints the skyline in dazzling colors.

Effective December 14, travelers who tested negative for COVID-19 are welcome to visit Hong Kong without quarantine. Fully vaccinated visitors can enjoy the city freely with a valid Vaccine Pass, including dining at restaurants, visiting attractions, and more.

THE University of Santo Tomas (UST) Publishing House, run by its director Ma. Ailil B. Alvarez and deputy director Ned Parfan, has been on a roll the past year releasing some very fine titles, among them a couple that would attract film aficionados and a couple more providing commentary on and insight into issues of politics and generational momentum.

Film

Broadcast Arts

THE Hong Kong Tourism Board announced in late November that there would be two special presents for locals and visitors this holiday season. The first to launch is the “Hong Kong WinterFest,” which will run until January.

winter, Hong Kong is filled with Christmas and New Year happenings. Impressive sparkling decorations can be seen all around town, creating a festive atmosphere that draws visitors to the city,” shares HKTB’s Executive Director Dane Cheng

are expanding the scale of the annual WinterFest campaign and will install the city’s tallest outdoor Christmas tree in front of the beautiful Victoria Harbour to create a unique photo backdrop. Together with the season-limited Christ

mas Wonderland, the location will transform into a unique photo checkpoint with a diverse array of programs to showcase the vibrancy of Christmas and New Year celebrations in Hong

Fashion designer, industry expert, and Benilde Fashion Design and Merchandising educator Ionica Abrahan Lim

Soft utility look by Loraine Holmes. Photo from WGSN

Vacationcore look by The Lulo Project.

Photo from WGSN

Elevated basics look by Bandoleiro. Photo from WGSN

Micro textures look by Odile. Photo from WGSN

Refined resort look by Rue de Tokyo. Photo from WGSN

Naomi Ackie stuns in Whitney Houston biopic

A year in pageantry

By Eton Concepcion

WE USHER in the new year with the Miss Universe 2022 pageant, now under a new owner/organization of Thailand-based JKN Global Group, kicking off in New Orleans, USA.

Celeste Cortesi is expected to make waves and give the rival powerhouse countries a run for their money.

The year that passed, we saw most of the country’s representatives suffer a string of losses abroad despite very good showing, while some managed to win in new or less-

In March, Kathleen Paton was crowned Miss Eco International 2022 in Egypt, the second Filipina to win after Cynthia Thomalla in 2018, and the only major victory for the country in 2022.

In June, Shane Tormes bagged the Miss Global 2022 title in Indonesia. Fuschia Anne Ravena won Miss International Queen 2022, a pageant for transgenders, held in Thailand.

CONCEPT

BY ETON CONCEPCION

brielle Camille Basiano made it to the Top 20 in Miss Intercontinental 2022 in Egypt, won by Vietnam’s Nguyen Bao Ngoc, while Chelsea Fernandez made the Top 15 cut in Miss Globe 2022 in Albania, won by Dominican Republic’s Payano. Both Basiano and Fernan dez were aiming for back-to-back wins to succeed outgoing titlists Cinderella Faye Obeñita Maureen Montagne

“I don’t even know how to describe it –Whitney has just always been there, always so present in my life,” Naomi Ackie says. “Every wedding, every funeral, every christening, birthday, karaoke, when I’m on my own, when I’m with friends. I can’t even remember the first time I listened to her music – that’s not even part of the conversation. She’s just al ways present.”

Because of that, when Ackie got the call inviting her to audition, she says, she was overwhelmed by the idea of playing the icon – until everything fell into place. “I was im mediately intimidated by even attempting to try it. It was just terrifying. Every time I had another round of auditions and it got closer, it still felt strange,” she says. “And then, for the final audition – it was Halloween, I was in full costume as Whitney, with the suit and the hair, singing ‘I Will Always Love You,’ and some thing just clicked. I suddenly understood – I could tell this story.”

The thing that clicked for Ackie is a strip ping away of the legend and a focus on who Houston was as a performer. “She just wanted to sing,” says Ackie. “I understand that, be cause I have the same thing – with acting. It doesn’t get much more complicated than that. I also saw that she could be a goofball and be very silly, like me, and combine that with a real respect for her craft and a technical ability, which is always my goal, too.”

For Ackie, playing Whitney Houston was something of a life-changing event. “There was a power in playing Whitney that I didn’t anticipate,” she says. “I’m not a take-it-homewith-you kind of actor. Between ‘action’ and ‘cut,’ I’m all feelings, and I leave it at the door. But with Whitney, it was something different. I stepped into my own power in a way that I hadn’t been asked to do before. I wasn’t just playing Whitney Houston anymore.”

Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody screens in Philippine cinemas start ing January 8.

In July, Alison Black made it to the Top 24 of Miss Supranational 2022 in Poland, won by South Africa’s Lalela Mswane.

In September, Beatriz

In November, dong finished in the Top 20 in Miss Grand International 2022 in Indone sia, won by Isabella Menin zil, but was appointed 5th runner-up replacing Yuvna Rinishta tius who resigned.

Bb. Pilipinas 2022 1st runner-up Herlene Nicole Budol trouble in a badly organized Miss Planet International 2022 in

of India.

In pageants for married women, Ellen Payaoan-Santos was named Elite Mrs. Universe 2022 while Christine Escalanwon Ms. Global Universe 2022 at the Mrs. Universe 2022 Official pageant held in Sydney, Australia.

In male pageants, in October, Joshua was named 1st runner-up in Manhunt International-Male Supermodel 2022, won by Australia’s Lochie Carey a Filipino-Australian model; while Myron Jude Ordillano finished 4th runner-up in Mister International 2022, won by Dominican Republic’s Manuel Fran, both in Manila.

In November, Misters of Filipinas’ won the first Man Hot Star International 2022 pageant in Thailand.

Batingan

Jenny

Maria Angelica Pantaliano was named Miss Tourism Metropolitan International 2022/2023 in Miss Tourism International 2022/23 in Malaysia, won by Thailand’s Suphatra

In December, Hannah Arnold made it to the Top 15 in Miss International 2022, the only delegate from Asia who made the cut. Jasmine Selberg of Germany won the title.

Bea McLelland was named first runner-up in Miss Eco Teen 2022 in Egypt, won by Cherisha

Immersive concert experience at 2022 Head in the Clouds Music & Arts Fest

GLOBE brought the concert experience to new heights at the 2022 Head in the Clouds Music & Arts Festival, which took place in Manila for the first time and featured an impressive lineup of curated Asian talent from 88rising.

Other than the main stage, the OneGlobe Dreamtopia booth was the heart of the festival, providing attendees with a unique and immersive experience. From there, festival-goers got to claim their tyvek band and visit different Globe product booths – completing engaging activities and earning stamps along the way to win special items and raffle tickets.

For Globe subscribers, the fun didn’t stop there. By showing the GlobeOne App, they received an additional 10 percent off on HITC merchandise. Non-subscribers also got in on the action by donating to the Hapag Movement hunger alleviation program and receiving a raffle entry in return.

“At Globe, we are committed to delivering exceptional experiences to our consumers. That’s why we created the OneGlobe Dreamtopia booth,

filled with immersive activities and exciting prizes. We believe that this added layer of engagement enhanced our concertgoers’ overall experience and made it even more memorable for them,” said Pia Gonzalez-Colby, Chief Marketing Officer at Globe.

During the two-day event, prepaid customers were able to play and explore the Virtual Hangouts Quest and GoREELS booths for a chance to win gadgets and HITC merchandise inside the vault. They also had access inside the Virtual Hangouts Metaverse art installation to make creative edits to their interaction with the cloud visuals in the booth.

The Globe Rewards area invited customers to donate to the Hapag Movementhunger alleviation program using their Globe Rewards or GCash at the Rewards Game Arena to play for prizes in the claw machine or the Gudi bow and arrow game.

At the Globe Platinum space, customers got to see and take a photo with the special mural artwork created by renowned street artist Distort Monsters. Showcased beside this masterpiece are wearable art selections from

while, provided a Chill Haven for visitors to lounge in the clouds and snap a creative selfie to post on Facebook.

The most number of likes won P5,000 GCash. Additionally, visitors enjoyed a singing game, where a Questuner sang

all tunes in the booth for one minute while the rest of the group members tried to guess the titles.

The Globe Postpaid Living It! Hotspot provided exclusive perks such as free drinks, festival kit, and official HITC merch for Globe Postpaid customers who have downloaded the GlobeOne App and signed up to Living It! There was also an aesthetic photo booth and lounge area where they could chill and enjoy all throughout the event.

As the main presenter of HITC Manila, Globe gave more fans an opportunity to be part of the much-awaited event by offering a limited two-day General Admission ticket for only P6,888 from its original price of P12,888.

In 2020, Globe and 88rising teamed up to elevate Filipino talent through the local label Paradise Rising, which serves as a platform to expand the presence of Philippine artists in the US. Paradise Rising is now part of the music division of KROMA, Globe’s tradigital entertainment company passionate about creators, talent, content, and technology.

PAGEANT

the collaboration of Globe Platinum and Distort Monsters - a premium apparel collection, made exclusively for Platinum customers, but was accessed by the VIP attendees for HITC.

The Globe At Home booth, mean-

BAFTA-winning British actress Naomi Ackie (Netflix’s End of the F*cking World Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker) plays the title character in Columbia Pictures’ Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody.

was named Miss Humanity International 2022 in Vietnam.

Ramp finished in the Top 20 of Miss Earth 2022 in Manila, won by South Korea’s Mina Sue Choi

Kliangprom

Shane Tormes bagged the Miss Global 2022 title in Indonesia in June 2022

Meiji Cruz was crowned the first Miss Cosmoworld 2022 in Malaysia Kathleen Paton was crowned Miss Eco International 2022 in Egypt in March 2022 (2)

Main Stage of the Head in the Clouds Festival held early December

Jovy Bequillo is the first Man Hot Star International titleholder

English actress Naomi Ackie play the legendary superstar Whitney Houston in the family-approved biopic ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’

English actress Naomi Ackie play the legendary superstar Whitney Houston in the family-approved biopic ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’.

ASPIN: The Best Dog Breed (Personally Speaking!)

By Mariana Burgos

ASPIN, short for ‘Asong Pinoy’ (Philippine Dog). This

what we, Filipinos, now call the native dogs of our country.

We used to call them ‘askal’, short for ‘asong kalye’ (street dog). It was because we see most of them often roaming free in the streets anywhere in the country, whether the dog is owned by someone or not. But because the connotation of the word ‘askal’ is demeaning, animal rights advocates all over the country worked together to change this and give the native Filipino dog breed a name that best suits its amazingly impressive nature.

Although the native dogs of the Philippines are a blend of various breeds, it is unclear who their true ancestors are. But Aspins have distinguishing traits that make them easy to recognize.

The recognizable traits of Aspins

According to the entry "Aspin" on the Dog Breed Info website, even though many of these dogs have significantly different appearances, there are some traits that are typically the same. The article describes them having medium-sized bodies, short coats that come in a range of colors, and typically more coarsely textured fur. These dogs usually have a coat that is either brindled, white, brown, black, or has any color of patches. Their snouts are commonly medium to lengthy, and they are known to keep their heads high. Their ears can be either pointed or floppy.

According to the same page, Aspins are renowned for being incredibly nice and loving to all individuals. They get along well with kids and are peaceful and joyful. Because they are so low maintenance and entertaining to be around, this breed doesn't really have any drawbacks.

How to care for an Aspin

As long as they receive regular activity, aspins, a medium-sized dog, would thrive in either a home or an apartment. These canines don't need a lot of exercise. They are happy and pleased as long as they are taken for daily walks or given permission to explore outside. These canines are frequently observed to wander the neighbor-

hood and streets by themselves and are able to locate their homes after dusk. They don't need much supervision because they are quite street smart.

An Aspin’s health and lifespan

The life expectancy of Aspins, as the website claims, ranges from 10-14 years. When a female Aspin gets pregnant, she usually gives birth to 4-6 puppies. And in terms of grooming, since most of them have short coats and do not shed a lot often, they do well with just once to twice a month of bath. That is if they are treated regularly for ticks and fleas.

In the Island Rescue Organization, Inc. (IROI) article, “What is an Aspin?” says, it is noteworthy to note that some veterinarians believe Aspins have a stronger immune system against various diseases since they have gone so long without receiving vaccinations, albeit there is no evidence to support this. Although, from my personal experience with my own Aspins, I can attest to this pronouncement. Our dogs contracted a severe illness a year ago that took the life of three of our pups. The symptoms of the said ailment were similar to that of the dreaded ‘parvo’. We barely had funds to have all of the infected pups be treated by the vet. So, those who showed continuous good enough appetite despite their weak dispositions, we re searched and made our own herbal medi cine for them. We also tried energy healing for the ailing dogs. Lastly, we prayed to St. Francis for healing. It was truly a difficult time but glad to say, they survived and now, all of them are in good health.

The genetic make-up of Aspins

In terms of health, IROI also says Aspins can also take pride in having a unique ge netic composition known as "hybrid vigor." As a result, Aspins are a mixed breed, and as such, their genetic makeup is composed of genes from a variety of gene pools.

The recessive genes that might "carry" health issues are essentially eliminated

How to keep your pets warm during this cold season

THE temperature now plunges to 23 degrees Celsius in Metro Manila and as low as 21 degrees in the provinces. Dogs and cats who stay outdoors such as roaming pets and those in pens in farms need added protection to keep them safe from the cold.

We are sharing these tips from herbal healers and literature we read in the internet to help you keep your pets warm during this cold season, and to make their immune system stronger.

1. Give ginger tea or salabat to your pet. No sugar. Just boil a piece of ginger and give the ginger water or tea to your pet. You can put the ginger tea in their food, or give directly in the mouth. Sometimes we use syringe. Most cats prefer the salabat in a teaspoon of wet cat food or canned cat food.

1 tablespoon for small to medium dogs (1//2 tea-

spoon for teacups)

2 tablespoons for a large dog 1 teaspoon each for cats

For kittens who are with their moms, they do not need the ginger tea as the mother’s body warms them.

Herbal healers prefer ginger over turmeric. Ginger dispels or removes the cold from the body, while turmeric brings heat to the body to melt growths and small cysts. But if the heat stays and accumulates in the body, and we were told the heat can cause other problems like bleeding, inflammation, or even a heat stroke. Turmeric is good for cancer patients but must be given with caution to healthy pets (or humans), the herbal healer said.

2. Boost your pet’s immune system more at this time by giving multivitamins and coco nectar. We usually give 3 ml for dogs and 1 to 2 ml for cats of

when there are two or more distinct genetic "sets" in the gene pool. Usually better health results in fewer visits to the vet and (perhaps) a longer life! Aspins, a mixed-breed dog, are likely to live longer than purebred dogs, according to research conducted in the US and Europe as the IROI claims. In comparison to certain purebred dogs, mixed-breed animals may also have more "balanced" temperaments. While it is impossible to say that all dogs of a particular breed will undoubtedly have a particular temperament, some breed features are typically present in dogs to some degree. Due to their lack of breed-specific genetics, Aspins, like other mixed breed animals, have less "extreme" temperaments. Aspins are known for their loyalty and are frequently kept as guard dogs to warn owners of outsiders approaching the house because of this.

The heroic trait of Aspins A number of Aspin dogs are renowned for their bravery, and these dogs exhibit the mixed breed's devotion to people, according to Dog Breeds FAQ. One of the most well-known is Kabang, who stopped

the fact that the person had passed away a few days earlier. He is the Filipino version of ‘Hachiko’ of Japan. Sadly, Buboy was killed when he was struck by a car one day. Roy, an Aspin dog who assisted in a search and rescue effort after a landslide in 2016, was another Aspin who rose to fame in the Philippines.

According to Yazhmin Malajito's article, "Why AFP puts ‘aspin’ over ‘imported breeds’ for K-9 dogs," the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also recognized Aspins as a superior breed for K-9 duty over imported canines because of their endurance and weather tolerance.

There are many other local stories of heroism of Aspins but did not reach the social media to be known enough by the public. Stories of family owned Aspins fighting off cobras found inside houses and ultimately sacrificing their lives to save their human families is a usual tale you will hear in the countryside.

One thing is clear: if this is not loyalty and intelligence displayed in canines in its finest, I don’t know what is.

Coco, a threeyear-old female dog, is a very caring dog. She regularly grooms not just herself but other dogs in the farm as well.

each supplement (multivitamins and coco nectar). We give both. There is no such thing as an overdose when it comes to coco nectar, the owner of the company who makes Dr. Gerry’s coco nectar, Frank Regis, told us.

3. Please try to put boiled and chopped malungggay (moriinga) leaves or powdered malunggay in the food of your dog or cat to also boost his/her immune system. Malunggay is said to be the supervitamins among all the vegetables.

4. Put pranela or fleece blankets in their favorite spot or sleeping area to warm the dogs and cats. We also put carton boxes with warming blankets or mats inside for cats.

5. If the dogs and cats are in pens, put a large rug or blanket over the cage and wrap another blanket around the lower part of the cage or pens. Keep an area without a blanket to let some air in.

6. If you can and have only a few dogs or cats, please put them in a warmer place.

7. Put a shirt on your pet if he/she likes clothes.

8. If your dog or cat is shaking due to the cold, please warm them immediately by putting next to them a bottle with hot water wrapped in a blanket. Please make sure the water will not spill out. Then bring your dog or cat to the vet immediately. There is however a heating pad that you can already buy online. Use with caution of course. Do not

leave your pet on the heating pad.

We are hoping and praying the temperature at night will no longer plunge to 21 degrees, and will stay at 26-28 degrees which our cats and dogs —owned ad rescued—are used to or can adjust to more easily. We are also praying your pets will be safe from the cold. It will be good if you can ask for more advice from your vet. May the year 2023 be kinder to our pets and us owners more! In 2023, we claim and pray more strays and pound and shelter dogs and cats will find a loving home; may more and more humans be kind to dogs and cats; and may laws of all countries in the world protect animals and be enforced.

Happy, love-filled, and blessed New Year to you all!

About the author: Desiree Carlos was a reporter and later sub-editor of Ang Pahayagang Malaya, news editor of Manila Standard, and assistant managing director of DZRH. She was a lecturer at the College of Mass Communications in the University of the Philippines in Diliman, and head of the journalism department of Kalayaan College. She is now an animal welfare advocate, founder and president of Save ALL-Save Animals of Love and Light, a SEC-registered non-government organization that rescues sick and injured stray dogs and cats, and feeds animals on the streets through volunteers in several cities in Metro Manila, Morong in Bataan and Pampanga .

is

About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a free-

Bela (black, 7 years old) and son Dathir (5 years old) were both rescued from being eithanized or killed in the pound by Save Animals of Love and Light-Save ALL. They are very loving and gentle with humans and other dogs.

Tagpi, a four-year-old male doggo, loves hugs from humans and loves hugging humans and cuddling with them.

Ulila, a two-yearold female furbaby is a very protective and loyal dog. She loves to hug people.

The lower part of pens or enclosures of rescued dogs and cats are "wrapped" with fleece blankets or covered with warming cloth to lessen the cold air that can come in.