Manila Standard - 2023 February 10 - Friday

Japan vows P250b to PH dev’t

Loan, investment pledges for PH to attain upper middle income status

By Vince Lopez, Vito Barcelo and Maricel V. Cruz

TOKYO—Japan

pledged 600 billion yen (about P250 billion) in official development assistance and private sector investment to the Philippines on Thursday, as it vowed to provide “dynamic support” in helping its “long-time ally” attain Upper Middle Income Country (UMIC) status by 2025.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced this in a joint press conference with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as he vowed to support the administration of the latter in a wide range of areas of cooperation.

Earlier in the day, Mr. Marcos secured billions of pesos worth ofinvestment pledges from leading Japanese semiconductor and electronics companies on Thursday, citing the need to “revitalize” business partnerships that had gone dormant during the pandemic.

The President's economic team said the investment pledges could translate to more than 10,000 jobs.

Kishida said Japan’s aid will be achieved through “active contribution of the ODA and private-sector investment of JPY 600 billion in Japanese Fiscal Years 2022–2023.”

The leaders also reaffirmed their “distinct, continued commitment” to facilitating the “steady implementation” of ongoing and future economic cooperation projects through the High Level Joint Committee on Infrastructure

LEADERS MEET.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (right) gestures to direct President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.—who with First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos earlier met with Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako (inset)— during their meeting at the premier's official residence in Tokyo on Thursday (see related story on A2). AFP

PM Kishida, PBBM okay to

strengthen security ties

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Thursday agreed to strengthen Manila and Tokyo’s defense and security relations in response to growing Chinese military pressure in the region. In a joint statement, the Asian leaders resolved to "increase the defense capabilities of their own countries, and further strengthen overall security cooperation.”

This will be done through strategic reciprocal port calls and aircraft visits, transfer of more defense equipment and technology, continuous cooperation on previously transferred defense equipment, and capacity building.

"In concrete terms, the leaders affirmed to strengthen efforts tocomplete transfer of air-surveillance radar systems, and for its related personnel training,” the statement read.

Mr. Marcos' trip comes a week after Manila announced a deal giving US troops access to another four bases in the country, and with Japan and the Philippines already in talks on a key defense pact.

The so-called Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) would allow the

Hopes fading as quake deaths swell to over 17,500

HOPES were fading Thursday for rescuing survivors of the earthquake in Turkey and Syria, which has killed over 17,500 people in one of the deadliest tremors in decades.

Bitter cold has hampered the four-

day search of thousands of flattened buildings and the 72-hour mark that experts consider the most likely period to save lives has passed. Relatives were left scouring body bags laid out in a hospital car park in Turkey's

southern city of Antakya to search for missing relatives, an indication of the scale of the tragedy.

"We found my aunt, but not my uncle," said Rania Zaboubi, a Syrian refugee who lost eight members of her

family, as other survivors sought loved ones' bodies among the corpses.

The 7.8-magnitude quake struck as people slept early Monday in a region where many people had already

2 injured Filipinos in Turkey now safe, PH community gets relief

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Philippine Embassy in Turkey on Thursday began bringing aid to Filipinos affected by the 7.8-magnitude earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria earlier this week.

9.6m

ABOUT 9.6 million of the adult labor force in the Philippines were jobless as of December last year, up by about 800,000 from the last survey period two months prior, according to the latest poll of the Social Weather Stations (SWS).

Philippine Ambassador to Turkey Maria Elena Algabre said the embassy promised not to lose hope as it begins its quest to reach out to Filipinos there.

“Mindful of current regulations implemented by the Turkish government,

up 800k from

“The estimated numbers of jobless are 9.6 million in December 2022 and 8.8 million in October 2022,” it said.

The poll comes on the heels of data released by the Philippine Statistics

SAVING CHILDREN. A rescue worker digs to reach children under the rubble of a collapsed building in the rebel-held town of Jindayris in Syria on February 8, two days after a deadly earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria. Rebel-held areas near Turkey's border cannot receive aid from government-held parts of Syria without Damascus's authorisation. AFP

WHO closely monitors bird flu spread abroad

THE World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday said it is “closely monitoring” the detection of bird flu in mammals recently reported in several countries including the United Kingdom, France, and the United States.

WHO

confirmed a spillover of the H5N1 Avian Influenza strain to small mammals but said the virus’ transmission to humans remains “low."

“Over the past few weeks, there have been several reports of mammals including minks, foxes, otters, and

sea lions having been infected with H5N1 Avian Influenza,” said WHO Director General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

“H5N1 has spread widely on wild birds and farm poultry for 25 years but

Japan Emperor invited to visit PH

TOKYO—President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. revealed his invitation to Japanese Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako to visit Manila during his joint press conference with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Thursday.

During the Royal Audience, the President conveyed the affection and admiration of the Filipino people to the Emperor and Empress, including the estimated 300,000 Filipinos who consider Japan their second home.

The President's parents, the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. and former First Lady Imelda Marcos, were warmly welcomed by the Imperial Couple as they landed in Japan for their first official visit back in 1966.

President Marcos is in Japan for an

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Development and Economic Cooperation toward the Philippines’ attainment of UMIC status and beyond.

The President said he and the Japanese leader had a "deeply engaging bilateral meeting" covering the full range of Philippines-Japan bilateral relations.

"And after our meeting, I can confidently say that our Strategic Partnership is stronger than ever as we navigate, together, the rough waters buffeting our region,” the President said.

"The future of our relationship remains full of promise, as we continue to deepen and expand our engagements across a wide range of mutually beneficial cooperation,” Mr. Marcos added.

Kishida also expressed Japan’s intention to contribute to the development of quality transport infrastructure in the PH in light of the “Build, Better, More” program of the Marcos administration, as well as equitable regional development in the Philippines, including Mindanao.

The Japanese premier also expressed support for the President’s priority agenda to maintain the competitiveness of Philippine agriculture and to achieve food security, while increasing farm productivity, efficiency, and farmers’ income.

The two leaders welcomed the signing of a memorandum of cooperation (MOC) that provides a framework for agricultural cooperation, such as the establishment of the Joint Committee on Agriculture, exchanges on agricultural and rural development policies, cooperation in resilient and sustainable agriculture and food systems, smart technology, and strengthening food value chain, among others.

"Philippines is Japan’s neighbor across the ocean and is a strategic partner sharing fundamental values. Today,

PH...

From A1 countries to deploy troops on each other’s territory for training and other operations.

Japan, which invaded and occupied the Philippines during World War II, has recently signed similar pacts with Britain and Australia.

Mr. Marcos and PM Kishida are not expected to complete negotiations on the RAA deal immediately, but they will likely agree to measures aimed at

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Authority, which said the country’s unemployment rate dropped to 4.3 percent in December 2022, significantly lower than the 6.6 percent registered a year ago. The latest jobless rate, however, was slightly higher compared to the alltime low of 4.2 percent in November 2022 as job losses were recorded in the agriculture sector due to recent weather disturbances, the PSA said.

The Fourth Quarter 2022 Social Weather Survey was conducted from December 10-14, 2022 using faceto-face interviews with 1,200 adults nationwide.

The SWS poll also found that 11.8% of Filipino families, or an estimated 3 million, experienced involuntary hunger at least once in the past three months.

Adult joblessness rose to 21.3% in December from 18.6% in October and 20.8% in June, the pollster reported.

WHO...

From A1 the recent spillover to mammals needs to be monitored closely.”

“For the moment, WHO assesses the risk to humans as ‘low’ since H5N1 first emerged in 1996, we have only seen rare and non-sustained transmission of H5N1 to and between humans,” he said.

According to a report by AgenceFrance Presse, the spillover of the highly transmissible virus common among wild

official working visit, where at least seven key agreements were signed on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, infrastructure, agriculture and digital cooperation.

Mr. Marcos also invited Prime Minister Kishida for a return visit to Manila in the soonest date as possible. The President earlier secured billions of pesos worth of investment pledges from Japanese companies engaged in semi-conductors, electronics and wiring harness (see story on A1 – Editors).

discussion was held with President Marcos on bilateral cooperation on economy, security anddefense, and people-to-people exchange, and deepening of cooperation in wide-ranging areas were strongly affirmed," PM Kishida said.

At a roundtable with Japanese semiconductor and electronics companies, the President said the Philippines aspires to become “hubs of excellence” for sectors in which it has a natural competitive advantage.

“We want the country to attain the status as a regional hub for printers, wiring harnesses, and other electronic goods,” the President said.

“We consider your operations significant. You are a prime generator of jobs. You provide support for sectors critical to industrial development and you carry with you the promise to create value through innovation in global manufacturing around the world,” Marcos said.

He said the country’s base of engineers, strong workforce, entrenched network of leading Japanese companies, and demonstrated history of success in the information technology services sectors offered the promise of future expansion.

“With the automotive industry moving toward electric vehicles and autonomous driving and the printer industry facing challenges related to digitalization and automation, we hope to see you recruit our talented human resources in your R&D activities,” he said.

Among those present in the meeting were top executives of Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, Ltd.; Yazaki Corp.; Yokowo Manufacturing of the Philippines; Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.; Brother Industries, Ltd.; IBIDEN Co., Ltd.; Seiko Epson Corp.; NIDECSHIMPO Corp.; and TDK Corp.

In 2021, the Philippines was the fourth largest exporter of wiring harnesses in the world after Mexico, China, and Romania.

speeding up military deployments for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

The leaders also welcomed the signing of the terms of reference concerning Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) activities of the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) in the Philippines.

This aims to simplify the procedures for visits to the Philippines by the JSDF, as one of the efforts to enhance and facilitate cooperation on HADR.

The President and Prime Minister

The percentage stayed highest in Metro Manila at 24.8%, followed by Balance Luzon at 23.1%, the Visayas at 18.6%, and Mindanao at 18.1%.

This brought the area averages for 2022 to 25.8% in Metro Manila, 23.8% in Balance Luzon, 17.0% in the Visayas, and 19.0% in Mindanao.

It was an improvement compared to 2021, whereas the annual average joblessness fell from 35.0% in Metro Manila, 27.8% in Balance Luzon, and 22.5% in the Visayas, but stayed at 19.0% in Mindanao.

Joblessness stayed higher among women at 29.7% than men at 15.2%. The resulting average in 2022 was 30.3% among women and 15.5% among men.

Moreover, the joblessness rate also remained highest among the youngest age group.

“As of December 2022, adult joblessness was highest among the 18-to24-year-olds at 46.7%, followed by the 25-to-34-year-olds at 25.1%, the 35-to-44year-olds at 20.6%, and those 45 years old and above at 12.7%,” it added.

birds and domestic poultry was reported in the United Kingdom, United States, and France.

However, Ecuador reported South America's first case of the A(H5) bird flu virus in a human last month — a nineyear-old girl who was in contact with backyard poultry. WHO said the case is “rare” and it has not since received any similar reports of infection.

The Department of Health is closely monitoring developments of the H5N1 avian influenza.

Based on the latest statistics published by Japan’s Ministry of Justice (MOJ) as of June 2022, there is an estimated population of 297,262 Filipinos living in Japan, making Filipinos Japan’s fourth-largest foreign community. Of the estimated number of overseas Filipinos in Japan, 226,057 or 76percent are permanent residents, special permanent residents, spouse/child of Japanese, spouse/child of permanent resident, and long-term residents.

The two leaders concluded their first bilateral meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tokyo, with Prime Minister Kishida saying the deals "confirm the broadening and deepening of the bilateral relations that will indicate the direction for our shared future.”

The Philippines is also one of the lowest cost producers of wiring harnesses in the world, based on exported value and quantity.

This trend has been building over a 20year period where wiring harness exports from 2001 to 2021 grew at a steady pace of 9 percent a year.

In his speech before the Japanese companies, the President said his administration was speeding up an already “robust and aggressive” infrastructure buildup.

The President assured Japanese investors that the government will try to address the problems of logistics, which they mentioned during previous meetings.

The President also underscored the need to pursue an investment-led export growth strategy for the country's economic agenda.

"Just like Japan, we want to strengthen and empower our small and medium-sized enterprises so they can transform into true engines of growth,” he said. “They are the heart of our communities. And most importantly, we intend to grow the position of the country as an industrial and service hub in the region through the establishment of anchor locators such as yourselves, who we hope will stimulate development to attract tier 1 to tier 3 suppliers," President Marcos said.

"This will help us create an efficient and expansive supply chain. Wehave listened to your concerns and your issues, and we intend to respond to these challenges with a whole-of-government approach," he said.

On Wednesday night, the President underscored the need for the Philippines and Japan to “revitalize” business partnerships that were made somewhat “dormant” by the COVID-19 pandemic, saying this would contribute to the growth of both their economies.

He made this remark during a dinner meeting with executives of Mitsui & Co.

also agreed to continue to consider ways to "further advance defense cooperation including through frameworks that will enhance and facilitate education and training exchanges as well as reciprocal visits of defense and military officials."

Mr. Marcos referred to Japan’s useful defense equipment transfer program and the potential for deepening collaboration, joint work, and interoperability.

The two leaders also welcomed the progress of bilateral defense exchanges such as through the Vice Minister's

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the embassy has successfully begun its initial mission to the affected provinces in southeast Turkey, in coordination with Turkish authorities,” the embassy said, in a statement.

“The ambassador is personally leading the embassy team to meet with as many Filipinos as able and practicable, subject to the conditions of surrounding infrastructure and ongoing local operations”, it added.

Thankful that two injured Filipinos have been recovered, the embassy said that it “continuously receives a steady stream of confirmed and unconfirmed reports of Filipinos experiencing varying degrees of distress.”

“We are thankful that a number of our kababayan (countrymen) are safe and we will not give up hope for those that cannot yet be contacted.

The embassy will act swiftly and decisively for all confirmed reports”, the

At the sidelines of the launch of new facilities at the Philippine Orthopedic Center Thursday, DOH officer in charge Ma. Rosario Vergeire said the agency is preparing for the possible health event.

“If you remember, reports like this have emerged in other parts of the world where H5N1 is being watched. So, last year we convened the Interagency Committee on Environmental Health, which is part of our strengthened surveillance efforts,” she said.

Since late 2021, Europe has been gripped by its worst-ever outbreak of

Mr. Marcos described Japan as a "trusted friend and a solid and steadfast partner in our quest for peace and for progress.”

"We share common principles of democracy, respect for human rights and the rule of law," the President pointed out.

"In July, we will celebrate the 67th anniversary of the normalization of our diplomatic relations. Our partnership continues to be among the Philippines’ most resilient and dynamic in the region,” the Philippine leader added. The seven agreements cover various areas of mutual cooperationincluding humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, infrastructure, agriculture, and digital cooperation. Vince Lopez (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

and Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) just after his arrival in Tokyo.

On its official Facebook account, state-run Radio Television Malacañang (RTVM) showed video footage of Marcos along with Mitsui and MPIC executives like Mitsui & Co. chief executive officer Kenichi Hori and MPIC chairperson Manny Pangilinan.

“The partnership between not only Mitsui but the whole of Japan andthe Philippines has been a long-standing one. We can point to so manyof the developments that happened in the Philippines with the assistance of the different Japanese funding agencies and our governmentto-government (G2G) arrangements and commercial arrangements, and these have been to the benefit of both our countries,” Marcos said.

He pointed out that the partnerships need to be revitalized after being “somewhat dormant” during the lockdowns of the pandemic.

Aside from Pangilinan, other business leaders who are part of the country’s delegation were also present like San Miguel Corp.’s Ramon Ang and Ayala Corp’s Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala.

Marcos is on a five-day official trip to Japan to strengthen Manila and Tokyo’s collaboration in a wide range of areas, including agriculture, renewable energy, digital transformation, defense and infrastructure.

Marcos was accompanied by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos along with several key government officials including Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, House Speaker Martin Romualdez and former president and now Senior Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

In his departure before leaving Manila, Marcos said he will be cultivating collaboration in areas “where future synergies and complementary interests converge with those of Japan.” (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Defense Dialogue in December 2022, Staff Talks in July 2022, and the JapanPhilippines Military-to-Military Meeting in October 2022.

The President also welcomed Japan’s intention to establish a new cooperation framework for the benefit of the armed forces and other related organizations of recipient countries for the purpose of deepening security cooperation.

Mr. Marcos also invited PM Kishida for a return visit to Manila in the soonest date as possible. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

statement said.

The team has already met with Filipinos from the cities of Adana and Iskenderun, the latter being one of the most devastated areas in Turkey’s Hatay Province.

They distributed relief goods, including food, blankets, water, and cash.

By working with the Filipino community, the embassy said it was able to send a team to rescue four Filipinos from Adana to the safer city of Mersin.

“We are continuing to utilize our invaluable network of Filipino community leaders from across the country to get in touch with those in need . .

. We deeply appreciate the relief goods that continue to be provided through generosity of our Filipino brethren in Turkey,” it added.

The Philippine contingent deployed to help victims of the Feb. 6 magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Turkey arrived in Istanbul on Thursday noon. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

bird flu, with North and South America also experiencing severe noutbreaks.

This has led to the culling of tens of millions of domestic poultry worldwide, many with the H5N1 strain of the virus. The global outbreak is also responsible for the deaths of tens of thousands of wild birds.

The recent detection of the disease in several mammals, including foxes, otters, minks, sea lions and even grizzly bears, has sparked growing concern that humans could be more at risk. Willie Casas (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

PH mulls team, sending aid to quake–hit Syria

THE government is considering sending either a response team or aid to help Syria, which was also struck by the 7.8-magnitude earthquake that affected Turkey on Monday.

Office of Civil Defense spokesperson Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV told reporters at Camp Aguinaldo the Syrian government formally sent a “flash appeal” to the Philippines on Wednesday night.

“That is what we are evaluating now with DFA [Department of Foreign Affairs]. Either we can send another contingent or send donations or relief items. No decision yet but we have already received through DFA a similar call from Syria and we are evaluating it,” Alejandro said Thursday.

“It’s an appeal for international assistance,” he added.

The Philippines’ 83-person response team arrived in Istanbul on Thursday at 12:08 p.m., Philippine time. It will help in search and rescue operations, and provide relief assistance to victims in the quakehit country.

Alejandro said the Philippine contingent will be assigned to Adana, one of the 10 provinces severely affected by the tremor.

“They were warmly received by our counterpart doon and our Philippine consulate. Our PH embassy officials were there to meet them. They had an initial briefing, then they will be transported again to their assigned region which is Adana. It is south of Istanbul,” the official noted.

“They are set to depart at 11 a.m., Istanbul time for Adana.

Initially, 18 buildings collapsed there per report. Our USAR is a medium-type USAR team capable of doing collapsed structure search and rescue.”

Philippine Ambassador to Turkey Maria Elena Algabre will meet the Philippine contingent in Adana.

“(Algabre) went around to check on our OFWs and the Filipino community in the southern part ng Turkey,” Alejandro said.

Hopes...

From A1 suffered loss and displacement due to Syria's civil war. An official at the Bab al-Hawa border crossing told AFP that an aid convoy reached rebel-held northwestern Syria Thursday, the first since the earthquake that has left survivors sleeping outdoors due to aftershock risks.

A decade of civil war and SyrianRussian aerial bombardment had already destroyed hospitals, collapsed the economy and prompted electricity, fuel and water shortages. Freezing temperatures

Temperatures in the Turkish city of Gaziantep plunged to minus five degrees Celsius (23 degrees Fahrenheit) early Thursday, but thousands of families spent the night in cars and makeshift tents—too scared or banned from returning to their homes.

Parents walked the streets of the city —close to the epicentre of Monday's earthquake—carrying their children in blankets because it was warmer than sitting in a tent.

Some people have found sanctuary with neighbours or relatives. Some have left the region. But many have nowhere to go. Gyms, mosques, schools and some stores have opened up at night. But beds are still at a premium and thousands spend the nights in cars with engines running to provide heat.

"When we sit down, it is painful and I fear for anyone who is trapped under the rubble in this," said Melek Halici, who wrapped hertwo-year-old daughter in a blanket as they watched rescuers working into the night.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, after mounting criticism online over the initial disaster response, visited one of the hardest-hit spots, Kahramanmaras, and acknowledged problems.

"Of course, there are shortcomings. The conditions are clear to see. It's not possible to be ready for a disaster like this," he said Wednesday.

Racing against the clock

Officials and medics said 14,351 people had died in Turkey and 3,162 in Syria from Monday's 7.8-magnitude tremor, bringing the confirmed total to 17,513. Experts fear the number will continue to rise sharply.

"We are now racing against the clock to save lives together," EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said on Twitter.

Despite the dimming hopes for rescues, thousands of local and foreign searchers have not given up in the hunt for more survivors. AFP (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

House leaders convinced DA gave them fake data on onions

CONGRESSIONAL leaders were convinced that government data on the supply of onions, particularly those coming from the Department of Agriculture (DA) were either fake or “invented.”

Majority leader and Zamboanga

Rep. Mannix Dalipe and Committee on Appropriations senior vice chairperson Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo were disappointed that they did not get satisfactory answers from the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) during Wednesday’s House inquiry on the alleged hoarding of onions and agricultural products.

Earlier, Speaker Martin Romualdez warned unscrupulous businessmen suspected of hoarding onions and other agricultural products that their days were numbered.

The House Committee on Agriculture and Food chaired by Rep. Wilfrido Mark Enverga conducted the inquiry on the issue of hoarding--which is believed to have caused hefty price increases on onions and other basic commodities.

Among the initial issues that Dalipe raised during the hearing was the fact that Will Builders Inc. (WBI), one of the country’s largest cold storage firms, was not listed in the BPI’s records. The BPI is an attached agency of the DA.

“’Yung mga datos natin, artificial lang ba yan? Pinepeke lang ba yan? ‘Di ba? May laman ba yung cold storage? Wala bang laman ‘yung cold storage? Kasi d’yan mo malalaro ‘yung presyo,” Dalipe asked the BPI representative to the hearing.

“What if the cold storage is empty, and your report says it’s full. What will happen to the market? That will be taken advantage of by some people, na walang supply. Tataas ngayon ang presyo kasi mali ang datos niyo,” he pointed out.

Dalipe said he believes that “price manipulation” was taking place in the local onion industry.

“There were reports that we had sufficient onion and garlic, and here comes the months of October, November, December, na tumaas ‘yung presyo. If the reports were true, why would the price go up?” he noted. Maricel V. Cruz

Bill eyes creation of special agricultural growth zones

By Maricel V. Cruz

AGROUP of lawmakers led by Speaker Martin Romualdez has filed a bill providing for the creation, operation, and administration of Special Agricultural Growth Zones (SAGZ) in the country.

Apart from the Speaker, the other sponsors of House Bill 7077 were Tingog party-list Reps. Yedda Romualdez and Jude Acidre, The measure has been referred to the Committee on Government Enterprises and Privatization.

“Agriculture is always an issue of scale…economies of scale. We need to start looking at the sector holistically and as an economy,” Acidre said

BI deports two remaining Japanese fugitives as PBBM leaves for Tokyo

By Vito Barcelo

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has deported the two remaining Japanese fugitives who were implicated in the controversial ‘Luffy’ case in Japan.

Meanwhile, President Ferdinand Marcos

Jr. clarified that the deportation of the four Japanese nationals tagged in the “Luffy” heists has already been processed prior to his scheduled visit to Japan

Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco said Tomonobu Saito, 45, and Yuki Watanabe, 38, were deported Wednesday evening aboard a Japan Airlines flight to Tokyo. Tomonobu and Yuki were two of the four fugitives suspected

by Japanese authorities to be members of a gang that committed a string of violent crimes in Tokyo.

Earlier, the BI deported Fujita Toshiya and Imamura Kiyoto who were linked to telephone fraud cases in Japan.

Tomonobu, also known as Kojima Tomonobu, and Yuki, who used the aliases Kenjie Watanabe and Kenjie Shimada, were both arrested on April 19, 2021 in a hotel in Paranaque by a combined team from the BI’s intelligence Division and the National Bureau of Investigation.

Tomonobu was wanted in Japan, with a standing arrest warrant for theft. On the other hand, Yuki reportedly has an arrest warrant for counterfeiting and theft.

in a statement.

According to the Tingog, HB 7077 will establish the legal framework and mechanism for the administration and management of the SAGZ, while at the same time, assist in the preservation of natural resources and biodiversity.

“The creation of SAGZ will create a flow of both foreign and local investors that in turn will generate em-

Binay raises concerns over RCEP adoption

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

ployment opportunities, as well as establish linkages among industries and around agricultural growth zones,” the party-list group said.

Romualdez and Acidre clarified however, that House Bill 7077 is not a panacea to the pervading problems in the agricultural sector.

“Rather, it is the primary step toward the right direction that is beneficial to our farmers and the agricultural industry as a whole,” they said.

“The measure is seen to establish financial and industrial cooperation between the Philippines and industrialized countries through technology-intensive industries. It will modernize the country’s agricultural sector and make sustainable agriculture technology accessible,” they added.

Duterte maintains ICC has no jurisdiction in PH

FORMER President Rodrigo Duterte has maintained that the International Criminal Court (ICC) has no jurisdiction in the Philippines, and that he would face complaints against him only before Philippine courts of law.

Duterte’s erstwhile spokesman, lawyer Harry Roque, dared the ICC to “do what you want.”

“You (ICC) will never have jurisdiction over his person and of course, we have always maintained that we will uphold Philippine sovereignty, that he will only face criminal prosecution before a domestic court,” Roque said in an interview with ANC.

Roque was reacting to a decision by the ICC to reopen an inquiry into Duterte’s bloody war on drugs.

Roque stressed that his former boss would face complaints against him, should there be any, but only before Philippine courts. During his watch, Duterte pulled the Philippines out of the Hague-based ICC in 2019, a year after the tribunal began a preliminary probe into the drug war in the Philippines.

The ICC called off its investigation

two months later, saying it re-examine hundreds of death incidents involving suspected drug personalities in the hands of policemen, hitmen, and alleged vigilantes.

Official records would reveal that a total of 6,181 people were killed in Duterte’s “war on drugs” but human rights group claimed that the figure could run up to as many as 30,000.

Panel on PNP purge set to meet Monday

THE five-man team tasked to go over the profile of high ranking police officials who have submitted their courtesy resignations will convene on Monday to start their inquiry, Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. announced.

Abalos also disclosed that former Court of Appeals Justice Melchor Quirino Sadang is the fifth member of the panel. He said the probe was meant to identify who among the ranking police officials were involved in the drug trade.

“The investigation will be underway.

The important thing is to remove those who should be removed from the service and the innocent to be protected,” Abalos stressed. Sadang served as a panel member representing the Department of Justice in the Revolutionary Alliance Makabayan

negotiating panel. He also b came vice executive judge and presiding judge of the Regional Trial Court, as well as a law professor of the University of the East.

The other members of the committee are Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr., former National Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, Jr., and retired Maj. Gen. Isagani Nerez

The DILG chief made the appeal for the full colonels and generals to voluntarily resign in line with the government’s effort to cleanse the ranks and get rid of “bad eggs” in the PNP. The projected purge stems from the scandal on the so-called “ninja cops” or policemen involved in a money-making scheme through the resale of confiscated drugs. Joel E. Zurbano

SENATOR Nancy Binay on Thurs-

day said the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) will remove the barriers and restrictions on at least 90 percent of imported or exported products. From an economic point of view, the Philippines will get substantial market opportunities and benefits from the RCEP, which intends to harmonize the trade agreements of the ASEAN members with big trading partners like China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.

Binay said it would have huge negative impact on the country’s trade once lost.

“But we don’t want to rush things just yet,” she said. “Let us first wait and hear the contentious issues on some essential sectors, and when it will be brought to the plenary to inquire if there are still questions.”

All concerned agencies and sectors, she said, should also be prepared for a transition.

“Whether it will be passed or not, RCEP will continue, with or without the Philippines,” she stressed.

“However, the most important and what we need to know is our readiness for RCEP, and if we have already prepared parallel programs for the labor sector, and subsidies in the agricultural and production sectors,” the senator added.

Meanwhile, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda are expected to lead the RCEP ratification.

Abandoned car yields P183.6m shabu in P’que

POLICE retrieved 27 kilos of suspected shabu valued at P183.6 million found in an abandoned car in Parañaque City.

The Southern Police District (SPD), citing a report from the Paranaque police, said the discovery of the suspected illegal substance was made following a search of the abandoned vehicle. Thursday.

SPD director Brig. Gen. Kirby John Kraft said Mark Joseph Espinosa, a community watchman of Barangay Tambo, reported to the police about the abandoned vehicle, a red Toyota Innova with license plant CDI 9724 on Quirino Ave. corner M. Delos Santos Street shortly before nightfall on Wednesday.

The responding policemen noted that the vehicle appeared to be intact, with all doors closed but not locked, and that there was no sign that something was wrong about it.

However, the police found 27 vacuumsealed tea bags containing white crystalline substance suspected to be shabu, a white sack, a white plastic, one Lazada box and some car registration documents inside the vehicle.

Also retrieved from the van were a photocopy of a birth certificate, two photocopies of a driver’s license belonging to a certain Ma. Teresa Fernandez, a vaccination card belonging to a certain Patani Barauntong, and 37 P50-bills.

Kraft said the contraband was turned over to the SPD Forensic Unit.

SERENDIPITOUS DISCOVERY. Scene-of-the-crime police operatives inspect a huge haul of suspected shabu valued at P183.6 million found in an abandoned van in Barangay Tambo, Paranaque City. Norman Cruz

FIRE EATS UP BUS TERMINAL. Onlookers watch thick smoke engulf the burning Araneta Center bus terminal in Cubao, Quezon City on Thursday afternoon. Aram Lascano

SADLY GOING HOME. This handout photo taken and released by the Bureau of Immigration shows two Japanese fugitives, Yuki Watanabe (left) and Tomonobu Kojima, manacled and bodily restrained moments before they boarded a ight to Japan where they will eventually face prosecution for a string of criminal o enses, notably robbery and fraud.

Ongpin: Tycoon, technocrat, int’l businessman and visionary

WHEN I woke up last Sunday morning, my daughter told me she received a text message that Bobby Ongpin (RVO to his associates), my good friend and former student at the old Ateneo de Manila High School, died. I was shocked.

Later that day, news came out that Bobby Ongpin died in his sleep, “cradled in the arms of his beloved Balesin” as the Philippine Star columnist, Iris Gonzales, put it.

Bobby Ongpin died at 86, survived by his wife, Monica Arellano Ongpin, and children Stephen, Anna, Michelle and Julian, daughter-inlaw Laura, son-in-law Frank, and grandchildren Sebastian, Benjamin, Lia and Maya.

Bobby lived a full life and was in fact an international businessman.

As my former student at the Ateneo High School, Bobby was an extrovert and friend to all his classmates. His late brother, Jaime Ongpin, who was also a student at the old Ateneo High School, was an introvert.

Bobby finally graduated from the Ateneo, cum laude, and went on to take up a postgraduate course at Harvard University in the United States.

When he was 45 years old, Ongpin became the youngest manager partner of the famous Philippine and international auditing firm SGV (Sycip, Gorres and Velayo).

It was at that time when Ongpin met international personalities, like Saddam Hussein.

Bobby in fact was very proud showing me a photo of Hussein towering over him at over 6 feet, and Ongpin at only 5 ft and six inches.

Bobby was soon called by the late strongman Ferdinand E. Marcos to serve as Minister of Trade and Industry.

As Bobby used to recall, “When the President says you serve, you serve” I was then a broadcast journalist during Martial Law.

Poor teacher training

WHEN it rains, it pours.

(LET) from the website of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and correlated these with other data complied by CHED.

When the late Senator Ninoy was assassinated in 1983, the Philippine economy was in dire straits with the massive outflow of dollars, by domestic and international businessmen, so much so the Central Bank could no longer have foreign exchange. Ongpin, as Minister of Trade and Industry, thought of a plan of having the police gather several well-known Chinese foreign exchange traders and threaten to send them to the stockade unless they followed his orders.

That gave birth to the well-known “Binondo Central Bank,” when Ongpin ordered all the foreign exchange traders to buy all the foreign exchange available in the market on behalf of the Philippine government to buy imported necessities for the people.

Ongpin dictated the rate of exchange everyday, and the BCB was very successful so much so the BCB saved the country’s economy from collapse.

This even impressed the World Bank so much it wanted Ongpin to save Egypt from economic collapse.

Egypt was suffering the same problems the Philippines had before Ongpin created the BCB.

For his role in preventing the economic collapse of his country, Ongpin made a name for himself in the history of the Philippines.

After the exile of FEM to Hawaii, Ongpin left the country and based himself in Hong Kong and became a consultant to many international conglomerates, primarily with American Insurance group (AIG) and Bobby’s friend Robert Kuok, a Malaysian billionaire who owned the South China Morning Post, the biggest English newspaper in the former British colony, now under the People’s Republic of China and made Ongpin his vice chairman.

But, Ongpin, a true Filipino, never lost contact with his friends in the Philippines.

He had set his eyes on a 500-hectare island called Balesin, jointly-owned by his former trade and industry undersecretary Ed Tordesillas and Baby Ysmael, an industrialist.

Being a visionary, RVO had plans for that island off the coast of Quezon province.

Bobby has had his own share of controversies.

He was demonized by former President Duterte, as an “oligarch that must be destroyed.”

This incident forced Ongpin to sell his Philweb, an online gaming firm causing him to lose P22 million.

He had to sell it to Greggy Araneta at a loss.

Ongpin was also accused of involvement in behest loans from the Development Bank of the Philippines and insider trading by the Securities and Exchange Commission.

But, Ongpin survived them when cases against him were dismissed.

After all these Ongpin went on to become one of the highest ranking tycoons, according to the Forbes ranking of rich Filipinos.

Oh yes, Bobby has his own Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by having scholarship grants through the name of his late brother, Jaime

V. Ongpin, who was once the finance secretary of Cory Aquino.

Bobby is a friend to most of the senators and to President Bongbong Marcos and the First Lady.

Years later, with Ashmore, an investment firm from London, Ongpin came back to the Philippines during the incumbency of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

He subsequently bought that island called Balesin from Tordesillas and made it an exclusive island club.

Ongpin has built a $2 billion fortune from scratch as a premiere paradise destination with 7.3 white sand beaches, 7 themed villages, almost 30 restaurants, 386 villas and unmatched amenities.

Balesin is the premier members-only go-to getaway for the rich, famous and the elite.

Ongpin’s debt-free Alphaland Corp, of which he was chairman and CEO, the visionary that he was, is expanding to nearby 732-hectare Balesin International Gateway, with five-star hotels, an 18 hole golf course and a 1,834 beach and golf course homes -- all at Patnanungan Island, now almost completed. His idea : attract the world’s high network individuals to enjoy the most unique beach resort and nature enclave as members or guests.

For Balesin members and guests, Ongpin bought a hydrofoil jet luxury boat to ferry people to and from Balesin and Patnanungan.

Ongpin in fact had bought spots at CNN aimed at high network people in the United States and Europe to become members of Balesin.

Balesin is not only debt-free, but has P1.5 billion in its pocket.

With Balesin as its signature high-end project, Alphaland also has the Baguio Mountain Lodges, which I call “Baguio’s Forbes Park,” an enclave for the rich and the elite.

The highly-secured mountain resort , 9 kilometers from Central Baguio, is now almost occupied and developed, having its own helicopter pad and Alphaland restaurants. I have been there twice. It all began when Ongpin bought the land to grow citrus trees when he was SGV managing partner.

Alphaland also owns the City Club, the foremost sports and luxury club, and Alphaland Makati Place, which was awarded as the premier residence-hotel, complete with restaurants and amenities. It also houses the Aegle Wellness center.

Not content with all his successes, Ongpin planned to attract the premier world-known soccer clubs of Europe and America to practice in a world-class artificial grass complete with all its amenities including dormitory under a grandstand for soccer players to rest.

Perhaps God thought Ongpin had done enough in a lifetime and decided it’s time for him to rest.

I repeat, as columnist Iris Gonzales has written so well, Bobby died in his sleep cradled in the arms of his beloved Balesin.

As for me, I will miss a very good friend and a man I admire and respect so much as a friend, a tycoon, a billionaire, an international businessman and a visionary.

I really hope and pray that whoever will take his place at Alphaland as CEO will continue all of Bobby’s projects and dreams the way he envisioned them, and even more.

With this note, all I can say is: Good Night, Sweet Prince, my good friend, may the flight of angels sing thee to your rest.

explored, developed, and utilized only with the consent of the State.

MINING plays a vital role in the country’s economic development. It opens employment opportunities, fuels infrastructure growth in and around the mining areas, generates foreignexchange earnings from exports of mineral resources, and tax revenues for the government (Philippine Statistics Authority).

However, mining, if irresponsibly undertaken, may cause water pollution, land erosion, damage to rivers and inland waters, deterioration of rain forests, decline of wildlife populations, and displacement of indigenous communities, among others.

The 1987 Constitution mandates that “[A] ll lands of the public domain, waters, minerals, coal, petroleum, and other mineral oils, all forces of potential energy, fisheries, forests or timber, wildlife, flora and fauna, and other natural resources are owned by the State…” (Article XII, Section 2).

Hence, if an owner of a piece of land discovers mineral resources therein, no exploration, development, and utilization may be had without the authority of the State. Conversely, mineral resources found in the land of another can be

It seems there’s a never-ending list of challenges confronting the education system in this country, with authorities simply unable to solve them.

We’ve written in this space about the findings of international institutions such as the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) that only 10 percent of students in the Philippines met the minimum reading standard and 17 percent met the minimum mathematical standard expected at the end of primary education. There’s also the World Bank study that “more than 80 percent of children do not know what they should know” in school.

That’s a searing indictment of the poor quality of education in the country, but where does the problem lie?

The culprit, as it turns out, also lies in the fact the quality of education that future teachers are getting needs much improvement as half of the schools training them perform poorly in the annual licensure exams for educators.

That’s the conclusion reached by the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd), a private

We cannot have, to be honest, the blind leading the blind in our educational system

sector-led advocacy group founded and financed by the country’s top business leaders.

What is to be done?

The group believes both the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) should collaborate to upgrade teacher quality in the country given the direct correlation of teaching to the performance of students.

The advocacy group cited the 2022 research done by the government’s socioeconomic policy think-tank Philippine Institute for Developmental Studies (PIDS), which found low teacher qualification was a major factor in the low-quality education and poor performance of students.

The PBEd researchers looked at 12 years’ worth of data from licensure examination for teachers

Dangerous milk supplements, and other hazards to health

MANY people who watch television regularly have called my attention to advertisements of “milk supplements” frequently aired at noon and evening prime time hours.

Often, the advertisements are 15-second spots.

Two known milk brands, the trademarks of which have been long associated by consumers with everyday dairy milk, are marketing what appears to be a “milk supplement,” but described as such only by a disclaimer announced at the last few seconds of the commercial.

The disclaimer is mentioned at an extremely fast pace such that even a keen listener can only decipher what seems like the phrase “the use of milk supplements may be dangerous to your child’s health.”

Thus, the advertisements appear to be about familiar-looking dairy milk products bearing familiar brand names, but which are not actually dairy milk, but “milk supplements,” whatever that means. The two brands have been around for several decades and enjoy an excellent brand recall from many consumers, both local and global.

Both brands, which are older than I am, originate from Switzerland.

From the way the advertisements are presented on television, even well-educated consumers can get the wrong impression the product being advertised is a milk product, and not just a “milk supplement.”

This is because consumers, since time immemorial, have come to associate these trademarks with dairy milk, and not with “milk supplements.”

Undoubtedly, therefore, advertisements like these constitute a serious threat to public health.

What is manifestly disturbing is that the aforesaid disclaimer mentions a hardly discernible warning that the use of “milk supplements can be dangerous to your child’s health.”

Inatay! What we have here are products which “can be dangerous to your child’s health” and yet frequently advertised openly on prime time television, and which can be misinterpreted by many to be dairy milk, and, as such, regularly given to children on that mistaken assumption.

Two questions, therefore, necessarily arise from this situation.

First, what is or what are in those “milk supplements” which, if consumed by a child, can be dangerous to the child’s health? This vital information is not even provided in the advertisement. Second, why is this product, which the manufacturer openly admits “can be dangerous to your child’s health,” allowed to be advertised on prime time television in the first place?

Republic Act 7394 (The Consumer Act of the Philippines) explictly prohibits the advertising and marketing of hazardous products. There is also the Milk Code of the Philippines to reckon with.

Those laws, and related legislation governing the advertising industry, prohibit misleading advertisements as well.

The group found that 56 percent of the schools nationwide offering teacher education had belowaverage passing rates in the licensure exam since 2010. Poor performance in the licensure exam for teachers puts teacher quality into question, PBEd said.

Moreover, the study found that the overall passing rate of LET examinees was lower compared to that of other courses, such as architecture, nursing, civil engineering and accountancy.

That’s not all.

Only 2 percent of schools offering teacher education were classified as high-performing, the PBEd said, noting the government should consider closing down the education programs of low-performing schools. But more important is a thorough assessment of the curriculum of teacher education and the questions in licensure exams so the DepEd and CHED’s professional standards for teachers can improve considerably over time.

We cannot have, to be honest, the blind leading the blind in our educational system.

many people.

This news is very disturbing because that brand of chocolates is extremely popular in the Philippines, not only for personal consumption but more particularly for gift-giving.

Many young Filipinos simply love American chocolates, and this fact should be a cause for concern among parents.

As of now, I have advised many of my friends and acquaintances who are fond of American chocolate bars to refrain from consuming such bars in the meantime.

Consumer groups should take the lead in public health advocacy and urge the DoH, DTI and the FDA to investigate this cause for concern, or even seek relief from the courts of law if these administrative agencies refuse to take action.

Since the chocolate bar in question is imported, the local importer should conduct its own investigation for the benefit of the public.

The pertinent information is available online. If the officials heading the government agencies mentioned do not act on this public health concern, then they should expect a complaint from the general public, which shall be pursued in the courts of law and, possibly, the Office of the Ombudsman.

The interest of public health demands that an investigation into this matter should be conducted immediately by the Department of Health, the Department of Trade and Industry, and the Food and Drug Administration.

Congress should also find this development worth investigating.

Likewise, the attention of non-stock, non-profit public interest and civic organizations such as the Philippine Association of National Advertisers and the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas is invited to this controversy.

They, too, should be vigilant against advertisements of hazardous products on television.

Speaking of health issues, I read some scientific materials published online which reveal that an American brand of popular chocolate has been the subject of a health controversy in the United States recently.

According to several American consumers, some of the chocolate bars sold under this particular brand have been discovered to contain some very harmful metallic impurities.

How those health-threatening impurities made it to the chocolate bars is unexplained, but, right now, American consumers are more concerned about the presence of dangerous impurities in what is supposed to be a harmless (with the exception of its sugar content) daily snack item for

and relinquishment or renewal upon the recommendation of the Director of the MGB.

Furthermore, the 1987 Constitution expressly provides that the “[S]tate may directly undertake such activities, or it may enter into co-production, joint venture, or production-sharing agreements with Filipino citizens, or corporations or associations at least 60 per centum of whose capital is owned by such citizens.”

Such agreements may be valid for a period not exceeding 25 years, and renewable for not more than 25 years (Article XII, Section 2, 1987 Constitution).

In the latter instance, “the State [shall] promote their rational exploration, development, utilization… through the combined efforts of government and the private sector…” (Declaration of Policy, Republic Act No. 7942).

However, mining shall not be allowed in: (a) military and other government reservations; and (b) “[n]ear or under public or private buildings, cemeteries, archaeological and historic sites, bridges, highways, waterways, railroads, reservoirs, dams or other infrastructure projects, public or private works including plantations or valuable crops…” (Section 19, Chapter III, Republic Act 7942).

Mining is also not allowed in areas covered by small-scale miners unless with the latter’s prior consent; it is also prohibited in old growth

or virgin forests, proclaimed watershed forest reserves, wilderness areas, mangrove forests, mossy forests, national parks, provincial/ municipal forests, parks, greenbelts, game refuges and bird sanctuaries (Section 19, Chapter III, Republic Act 7942).

Before individuals or corporations can develop or utilize the mineral resources of the State, they must apply for an exploration permit with the Mines Geoscience Bureau which grants them the right to conduct exploration for all minerals in certain specified areas (see Section 20, Chapter IV, Republic Act 7942). An exploration permit shall be valid for a period of two years, subject to annual review

An exploration permit shall grant to the permittee, his heirs or successors-in-interest, the right to enter, occupy and explore the area (Sections 21 and 23, Chapter IV, Republic Act 7942).

If private or other parties are affected, the permittee shall first discuss with the said parties the extent, necessity, and manner of his entry, occupation, and exploration and in case of disagreement, a panel of arbitrators shall resolve the conflict (Section 23, Chapter IV, Republic Act 7942).

The permittee shall undertake exploration work on the area as specified by its permit based on an approved work program.

Any expenditure in excess of the yearly budget of the approved work program may be carried forward and credited to the succeeding years covering the duration of the permit (Section 23, Chapter IV, Republic Act 7942).

The permittee may apply for a mineral production sharing agreement, joint venture agreement, co-production agreement or financial or technical assistance agreement over the permit area, which shall be approved if the permittee meets the necessary qualifications and the terms and conditions of any such agreement (Section 23, Chapter IV, Republic Act 7942). Mineral production sharing agreement is an

(www.manilastandard.net)

Misplaced amendment of the law

A president elected by robots agreement where the Government grants to the contractor the exclusive right to conduct mining operations within a contract area and shares in the gross output.

The contractor shall provide the financing, technology, management and personnel necessary for the implementation of this agreement (Section 26, Chapter V, Republic Act 7942).

A co-production agreement is an agreement between the Government and the contractor wherein the Government provides inputs to the mining operations as well as benefiting from the mineral resource.

On the other hand, a joint venture agreement is an agreement wherein a joint-venture company is organized by the Government and the contractor with both parties having equity shares (Section 26, Chapter V, Republic Act 7942).

A mineral agreement shall grant to the contractor the exclusive right to conduct mining operations and to extract all mineral resources found in the contract area.

In addition, the contractor may be allowed to convert his agreement into any of the modes of mineral agreements or FTAA subject to the approval of the DENR Secretary (Section 26, Chapter V, Republic Act 7942).

“Any qualified person [or corporation] with technical and financial capability to undertake large-scale exploration, development, and utilization of mineral resources in the Philippines may enter into an [FTAA] directly with the Government…”. Full text at www.manilastandard.net

If the officials heading the government agencies mentioned do not act on this public health concern, then they should expect a complaint from the general public...

SC approves dad’s custody of ‘abused’ child

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Supreme Court (SC) has rendered a landmark decision upholding the right of the father to apply for protection and custody orders for his child against the mother who is alleged to have committed violence against their child as contemplated under Republic Act No. 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Children Act of 2004.

In an 18-page en banc decision authored by Associate Justice Mario Lopez, the SC granted the petition filed by Randy Michael Knutson, an American citizen seeking the reversal of the ruling issued by the Taguig City Regional Trial Court, which junked his petition for the issuance of temporary protection and permanent protection

orders on behalf of his daughter. The SC declared that contrary to the trial court’s ruling, RA 9262 allows the father of the offended party to apply for protection orders.

The high court stressed that although it previously ruled in Garcia v. Drilon (Garcia case) that the Congress excluded men as victims under R.A. 9262 as its legislative intent is to limit the protection against violence to women and children only, it is still “improper to conclude” that the law denies a father of the remedies provided under the law solely because of his gender or that he is not a “woman victim of violence.”

The SC noted that Section 9 (b) of R.A. 9262 allows “parents or guardians of the offended party” to file a petition for protection orders.

Court records showed that Knutson met her wife, Rosalina in Singapore in 2005, got married and had a daughter. In 2011, the family lived in the country but the couple became estranged after the petitioner discovered her extra-marital affairs. Despite their separation, the petitioner provided financial support to his wife and daughter. But the petitioner said his wife got hooked in casinos and would oftentimes leave her daughter under the care of strangers.

Midwives’ group slams DOH memo on new birthing guidelines for clinics

By Rio N. Araja

AN ASSOCIATION of midwives, mostly owners of maternity lying-in clinics on Thursday took a swipe at the Department of Health (DOH) for a 2021 circular restricting them to provide normal delivery for first-time mothers and those to give birth for their fifth child.

At a news conference in Quezon City, Patricia Gomez, Integrated Midwives Association of the Philippines (IMAP) Inc. executive director, said DOH’s Department Circular No. 2021-0005 goes against the Midwifery Act of 1992, forcing affected pregnant women to resort to traditional birth attendants or the so-called hilot. Under the directive, a lying-in clinic is not allowed to accommodate the delivery of primigravid (G1) or first-born child and grandmultigravid (G5) or fifth child and above.

Apart from this, Gomez said, midwives are prohibited to provide delivery for pregnant women aged 36 years and above.

“At least 40 percent of the maternal lyingin clinics across the country have shut down,” she cited. She lamented that IMAP has sought a dialogue with officials of DOH since 2021, to no avail.

“Today (Feb. 10), we hope to sit down with DOH, discuss our concerns and have a fruitful dialogue,” she told reporters.

“To DOH officer in charge Maria Rosario Vergeire, please listen to us, talk to us,” she said. She said the health department is obliging lying-in operators to enter into a memorandum of understanding with waste disposal haulers, and even into a memorandum of agreement with any DOH-accredited ambulance services, “an additional burden to us.”

Rosalina also incurred large debts from casino financiers prompting her to sell the house and lot, condominium unit, and vehicles that he provided for the family. His wife ended up renting an apartment and entered into a romantic relationship with another man.

The petitioners also found out that her daughter was being maltreated by her mother.

One time, the petitioner claimed his wife pointed a knife at her daughter and threatened to kill her.

He recalled that her wife even texted him about her plan to kill their daughter and to commit suicide.

FROM IMEE. Senator Imee R. Marcos distributed ‘nutribun’ and gave cash assistance to more than 600 families who were victims of a recent fire in Barangay Apolonio Samson, Quezon City on Feb. 3. Lino Santos

HB seeks prayers rooms in public, private offices

DEPUTY Minority Leader and Basilan Rep. Mujiv Hataman has filed a measure seeking to mandate the establishment of Muslim prayer rooms in every government building, hospital and military camp, as well as privately owned establishments such as malls, factories and hospitals.

In filing House Bill 7117, Hataman said that the Muslim population, whose numbers range anywhere from over 6 million to as high as 12 million depending on the source of data, forms a huge and significant part of the Filipino citizenry.

The measure also mandates that a prayer room be established in places enumerated, such as hospitals, military camps, malls, factories and government buildings and facilities. The number of prayer rooms can be increased as the need arises, and to be determined by the implementing agency of the law – the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF).

“As a predominantly Catholic country, many establishments and buildings – be it government-owned, private or for the benefit of the public – have chapels or prayer rooms that cater to the Catholic faithful. In hospitals, government buildings or even malls, there are always areas reserved for their worship,” the bill read. Maricel V. Cruz

PH signs quick-impact projects deal with India

INTERIOR secretary Benjamin Abalos, Jr. has signed an agreement with Indian Ambassador Shambhu Kumaran for the implementation of quick-impact projects that will benefit local communities in the Philippines.

Estrada urges DMW to cancel license of slain OFW’s recruitment agency

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada aired his concern over alleged “dummy” Filipino owners of placement agencies recruiting landbased overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

Estrada also called out officials of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on the matter, and urged the department to cancel the recruitment license of the local recruitment agency of slain OFW Jullebee Ranara.

During Wednesday’s Senate hearing on Ranara’s case, Estrada said his office received information on alleged foreign ownership of placement agencies, which is prohibited in the licensing and regulation rules of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA)

and the Labor Code of the Philippines.

“It might be tedious for this committee to summon all the incorporators or the board of directors of the recruitment agencies. Let’s just request the DMW to scrutinize the recruitment agencies, whether the proprietors of these recruitment agencies have the financial capability to run its operations,” Estrada said.

The senator it’s common knowledge in the industry that some Filipinos are posing as “dummy” incorporators of some recruitment or placement agencies deploying OFWs.

The senator expressed concern that some of these foreign-owned recruitment agencies are responsible for the deployment of distressed OFWs as in the case of Ranara, who was the subject of his privilege speech last January 24.

Local government units across the country stand to benefit from the multi-million dollar grant from the government of India (GOI), according to Abalos.

He extended his gratitude to the GOI for the funding window which “is a first of its kind” and a much-needed intervention for the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and more so for LGUs which are now expected to take bolder steps to realize full devolution in view of the Supreme Court ruling in 2018.

“On behalf of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. and the Filipino people, we would like to extend our deepest appreciation to the GOI for the financial grant for the implementation of quick impact projects that will immensely benefit local communities in the Philippines,” Abalos said. Joel E. Zurbano

AID

DRUG-FREE SAN JUAN. San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora (center) holds the thumbs-up sign with other local government officials and representatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) which recently declared three barangays of San Juan City--namely West Crame, San Perfecto, and Batis--fully drug-free. Manny Palmero

Japan analyzes previous aerial objects after China balloon

JAPAN said Thursday it was coordinating with Washington as it analyzed unidentified aerial objects spotted over the country in past years after US forces shot down an alleged Chinese surveillance balloon.

“We are communicating with the United States but we decline to comment on diplomatic exchanges,” chief government spokesman Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters Thursday.

“Having said that, we are analyzing objects observed above Japan in June 2020 and September 2021, including any links to the case in the United States.”

A mysterious balloon-like object was spotted over northern Japan in June 2020, with locals posting pictures on social media.

Authorities said then that they were baffled by the object, which in close-up images by residents and media appeared to be composed of a balloon attached to crossed sticks with propellers.

Japan’s meteorological agency said at the time that the balloon looked like a weather-monitoring device but did not belong to them.

The government batted away suggestions that it might belong to a foreign government, but the recent furore over an alleged Chinese surveillance balloon shot down after passing over the US has prompted a re-evaluation.

Matsuno also revealed that “the government has spotted similar balloons whose affiliation are unknown,” including in January 2022 over the sea west of Kyushu, in southwestern Japan.

“We continue to make the utmost efforts to collect and analyze (information) in cooperation with our ally,” he said. AFP

Australia to strip defense sites of China-made cams

AUSTRALIA’S defense department will strip its buildings of Chinesemade security cameras to ensure they are “completely secure,” the government said on Thursday.

It follows similar moves in the United States and Britain, which have taken measures to stop government departments installing Chinese-made cameras at sensitive sites.

Both countries have expressed fears that Chinese companies could be forced to share intelligence collected by the cameras with Beijing’s security services.

Beijing accused Australia of “misusing national might to discriminate against and suppress Chinese enterprises,” calling on Canberra to ensure “fair” treatment for its businesses in the country.

At least 913 Chinese-made cameras have been installed across more than 250 Australian government buildings, according to official figures compiled by opposition politician James Paterson. This includes offices and facilities belonging to the departments of defence, foreign affairs and finance, as well as the attorney-general’s department. AFP

Biden called ‘extremely irresponsible’

BEIJING on Thursday condemned US President Joe Biden’s comments that Chinese leader Xi Jinping faced “enormous problems,” saying the remarks were “extremely irresponsible.”

In an interview with PBS NewsHour, Biden said Wednesday that China was constrained in its ability to confront the United States by the need to protect international trade, and that Xi himself is in an unenviable position.

China hit back at the remarks Thursday, with foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning telling a regular briefing that Beijing was “strongly dissatisfied.”

“This type of rhetoric from the US is extremely irresponsible and runs

counter to basic diplomatic etiquette,” Mao said, adding that Beijing “firmly opposed this.”

After a brief warming after a November G20 meeting between Biden and Xi, US-China relations have cooled following the appearance of a high-altitude Chinese balloon over the US, which the US Air Force shot down on Saturday.

The US has alleged the balloon was intended for espionage – claims China has denied, arguing it was a weather

observation device that blew off course.

In his interview Wednesday, Biden defended the decision to shoot down the craft and stressed that the US is not looking for conflict with China.

But he also said Xi had “enormous problems,” including “an economy that is not functioning very well.”

“Can you think of any other world leader who’d trade places with Xi Jinping? I can’t think of one,” Biden said. AFP

Macron and Zelensky to travel together to EU summit

FRENCH President Emmanuel Macron and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky will fly together on Thursday morning from Paris to a summit of EU heads of state and government in Brussels, the Elysee Palace announced.

The two leaders will leave Villacoublay, near Paris, at around 08:30 am (0730 GMT). They are expected to arrive in Brussels at 10:00 am (0900).

The Ukrainian president, who is on a surprise tour of Europe, is leaving his country for the second time since the beginning of the Russian offensive on February 24, 2022. He travelled to Washington in December.

On Wednesday, he went to London, his closest ally after the United States in terms of military aid, and then to Paris, where he dined at the Elysee Palace with Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz before spending the night.

Zelensky urged leaders in both capitals to deliver fighter aircraft “as soon as possible” to push back the Russian offensive in his country.

BROTHERS-IN-ARMS. France’s President Emmanuel Macron (left) welcomes Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky upon his arrival at the Elysee presidential palace for a meeting with France’s President and Germany’s Chancellor in Paris on February 8, 2023. Zelensky made his first visits to Britain and France since the Russian invasion almost one year ago, pressing his allies for more weaponry and in particular fighter jets. AFP

North Korea unveils ‘record’ number of ICBMs at 75th anniversary parade

NORTH Korea’s Kim Jong Un oversaw a major military parade showcasing a record number of nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missiles, state media reported Thursday, including what analysts said was possibly a new solid-fueled ICBM.

The parade to mark the 75th founding anniversary of the country’s armed forces featured fireworks, military bands and uniformed soldiers marching in unison to spell out “2.8” and “75,” the official Korean Central News Agency reported.

Wearing the black coat and fedora combination favoured by his grandfather and North Korea’s founding leader Kim Il Sung, Kim attended the February 8 parade with his wife, Ri Sol Ju, and daughter Ju Ae, state media photographs showed. Images showed the top leader standing flanked by his top generals in Pyongyang’s central Kim Il Sung Square, saluting as troops and missile units parade past.

The weapons on show included at least 10

of the country’s largest Hwasong-17 ICBMs, plus vehicles apparently designed to carry a solid-fueled ICBM, Seoul-based specialist site NK News reported.

North Korea has long sought to develop a solid-fuel ICBM, which could help make its nukes harder to detect and destroy.

When the ICBMs appeared in the square, it prompted cheering by spectators, KCNA said, adding that the parade also featured a “tactical nuclear operation unit.”

North Korea stages military parades to mark important holidays and events, which are closely monitored by observers for clues about the reclusive regime’s progress on its banned ballistic and nuclear weapons.

The parade showcased “the country’s greatest nuclear attack capability,” KCNA said.

Commercial satellite images taken by Maxar Technologies at 10:05 pm (1305 GMT) on Wednesday night showed a large North Korean flag and thousands of people assembled at Kim Il Sung square. AFP

Macron and Scholz have promised to continue to support Ukraine, including militarily, “as long as necessary” until “victory.” While in Paris, Macron presented Zelensky with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honor, the highest honour a French president can bestow on another head of state. AFP

PSE INDEX CLOSING

Manufacturing growth eased to 4.8% in December, says PSA

By Julito G. Rada

MANUFACTURING growth slowed to 4.8 percent in December from the previous months amid higher inflation and softer demand for technology products, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority show.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the slower manufacturing growth in December was due to “the higher number of holidays that somewhat slowed down manufacturing/production activities

Leighton Asia set to build third Candaba bridge

By Darwin G. Amojelar

NLEX Corp. said Thursday it awarded a P6.1-billion contract to CIMIC Group’s Leighton Asia-Philippines Branch for the design and construction of the new five-kilometer third Candaba viaduct.

“After a thorough bidding process and evaluation, we have awarded the project to Leighton Asia. We trust their knowledge and expertise when it comes to building safe and highquality roads and bridges, having completed a lot of our major projects, with the NLEX Harbor Link as the most recent one,” NLEX president and general manager J. Luigi Bautista said.

Situated between Pulilan, Bulacan and Apalit, Pampanga, the Candaba Viaduct is a strategic expressway link that has been serving Metro Manila and Central and North Luzon corridor for several years.

A new bridge will be built in the middle of the two existing viaducts, which is set to start within first quarter of the year until 2024 to enhance motorists’ safety and mobility.

The Candaba 3rd Viaduct Project will make travel safer and easier as it expands the road from three lanes without shoulder to three lanes with inner and outer shoulder in each direction, according to NLEX Corp.

“We are honored to build on our long-term partnership with NLEX Corp., whom we have worked for over two decades to enhance the transportation network in the Philippines,” Leighton Asia Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia general manager Jan Torka said.

“We will apply Leighton Asia’s international expertise and local experience to ensure the safe and successful delivery of this project,” Torka said.

NLEX continues to make viable engineering interventions to improve the capacity and serviceability of the Candaba Viaduct. It is undertaking a major safety upgrade of the southbound portion of the viaduct to further ensure the safety of motorists.

NLEX upgraded some priority bridge link slabs, strengthened columns through steel jacketing and constructed lay-bys or emergency stops in both northbound and southbound directions of the bridge.

during the month; as well as higher prices/ inflation, higher interest rates, risk of US recession that are drags on manufacturing and investment activities.”

Results of the PSA’s monthly integrated survey of selected industries showed that

the volume of production index for manufacturing recorded a year-on-year increase of 4.8 percent in December, slower than the annual increase of 5.9 percent in November and 19.2 percent a year earlier.

The PSA said the biggest contributors to the slowdown were transport equipment; computer, electronic and optical products; and basic metals.

Ricafort said the slower growth may have to do with the normalization of the base/denominator effects of a much higher base a year ago and the strong growth levels seen in earlier months.

“Nonetheless, the modest, singledigit growth in the manufacturing vol-

Korean firm remains interested in rehabilitation of BNPP

By Alena Mae S. Flores

A SOUTH Korean company remains keen on repowering the mothballed 620-megawatt Bataan Nuclear Power Plant, an official of state-run Philippine Nuclear Research Institute said Thursday.

“The one that is really interested is Korea, because Korea has an exact model. And they say they can revive it in five years because the facility is already existing,” PNRI director Carlo Arcilla said at the sidelines of the Powertrends 2023 Forum.

Arcilla said Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of Korea Electric Power Corp., could repower the BNPP in five years.

He said the five-year timeline would cover regulatory preparations, including compliance with the 19 infrastructure requirements of the International Atom-

ic Energy Agency.

“What’s important for PBBM [President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.] is we can do nuclear before the end of his term and the fastest is BNPP,” he said.

Arcilla said the cost to repower BNPP, estimated previously at $1 billion to $2 billion, could be recovered in two to three years from the electricity savings generated. He said the government could also explore other options for BNPP such as leasing out the facilities or privatizing them. Arcilla said the government would also need to address who would regulate nuclear power in the country.

The Department of Energy wants an independent nuclear power regulator under the Office of the President. Arcilla’s statement came in the wake of a possible nuclear cooperation with China, which the Department of Energy is studying.

DOE director for energy policy and

planning bureau Michael Sinocruz said the nuclear energy partnership with China would be under “government-togovernment.”

“We have not discussed what will be the coverage of the energy cooperation,” he said.

Sinocruz said studies were ongoing for the inclusion of nuclear in the power generation mix under the updated Philippine Energy Plan, which may be extended until 2050.

The latest PEP covers the period 2020 to 2030.

“We’re going to include now nuclear...What will be the impact of nuclear in our energy mix in terms of reducing our CO2 emission, in terms of cost, among others,” Sinocruz said.

Sinocruz said the DOE was conducting an assessment on conventional nuclear power plants, with 13 sites identified including Bataan.

ERC opposes consolidation of SMC power units’ cases

THE Energy Regulatory Commission through the Office of Solicitor General filed an opposition to the decision of the Court of Appeals consolidating the cases filed by two power subsidiaries of San Miguel Corp. on their 2019 power supply agreements with Manila Electric Co.

The CA’s 16th Division earlier denied the request for a temporary retaining order by San Miguel Energy Corp., but ruled that the subject case should be consolidated with another case filed by South Premiere Power Corp. with the 13th Division.

“On SMEC, the 16th Division denied the TRO and injunction but they

granted the consolidation so the OSG as our counsel filed a partial motion for reconsideration on the consolidation so in a way, they opposed the consolidation,” ERC chairperson Monalisa Dimalanmta said.

“As to the other case, the one in the 13th Division, there is no submission yet,” Dimalanta said.

“The argument of the OSG is, the two cases have different legal issues so it’s not prime for consolidation,’ she said.

The companies filed for a temporary rate hike with the ERC based on the change in circumstance, which the regulator denied. This prompted the

Cancer

ume production continued to pick up as the economy further reopened towards greater normalcy, with no large lockdowns so far in 2022 and no lockdowns going forward as a priority of the administration,” Ricafort said.

Data showed that eight industry divisions registered higher annual growth rates in December, including the manufacture of food products.

Aris Dacanay, the economist for ASEAN of Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corp., said in an emailed response to Manila Standard that the softer numbers in manufacturing reflected the fall in electronics exports growth.

IN BRIEF

purchase violation BANK of the Philippine Islands said Thursday it was allowed to pay a smaller fine of P30 million for its failure to get regulatory confirmation for its stock purchase and option plan in 2013. BPI said in a disclosure to the stock exchange the Securities and Exchange Commission granted its request to reduce the penalty to P30 million from the previous assessment of P135 million.

“The Securities and Exchange Commission in its letter dated 08 February 2023 informed Bank of the Philippine Islands, that the commission en banc, in its meeting on 07 February 2023, granted the request of the bank to reduce the penalty to [30,000,000.00 for omitting to secure SEC’s confirmation of exemption from registration for its 2013-2019 Executive Stock Purchase Plan and Executive Stock Option Plan,” it said.

BPI remains one of the biggest banks in terms of assets. In 2022, it posted a record net income of P39.6 billion, or 66 percent higher than in 2021, driven by strong loan growth, higher net interest margin, lower provisions and a gain from a property sale in the second quarter. This translated into a return on equity of 13.14 percent and return on assets of 1.59 percent. Julito G. Rada

SPNEC expects to complete

P2.8-b stock rights offering SP NEW Energy Corp. said Thursday it plans to complete its P2.8-billion stock rights offering to proceed with the planned share swap with parent Solar Philippines Power Project Holdings Inc. SPNEC said in a stock exchange filing it expects the partially-paid SRO shares to be fully paid by shareholders on or before March 5, based on indications of interest for the company’s shares. The company said if the SRO shares would remain unpaid by the shareholders, Solar Philippines would purchase the remaining shares at P1.50 apiece. SPNEC conducted a SRO for 1.875 billion shares in September 2022, of which 1.127 billion were fully paid and 748.024 million were partially paid by shareholders, with 25-percent downpayments. The due date on the balance was initially set on Dec. 5, 2022 but was later moved to March 5, 2023. As of Dec. 22, 2022, the company still had 578.768 million remaining partially-paid SRO shares.

“We are grateful to our public shareholders for believing in the value of our company’s shares. With the improved market conditions this year, we hope this will bring forth a positive feedback loop, by enabling the completion of our SRO, and in turn enabling our share swap, private placements and project developments,” said Solar Philippines founder Leandro Leviste. Jenniffer B. Austria

Israeli firm spending $34m in East-Palawan project

companies to ask for a TRO and writ of injunction from the CA.

The CA’s 13th Division granted WPI to SPPC on its 2019 power supply agreement with Meralco involving 670 megawatts of supply. This prevented Meralco from implementing the order of the ERC to honor their fixed-rate PSA. SPPC ceased to supply Meralco effective Dec. 7, 2022, following the CA’s grant of a 60-day temporary restraining order last year.

The CA said the grant of the WPI suspended the continued implementation of the PSA but did not terminate it.

Alena Mae S. Flores

ISRAELI company Ratio Petroleum, the operator of Service Contract No. 76, is looking at a projected minimum expenditure of $34.35 million to develop the East-Palawan Basin, the Department of Energy said Thursday. The capital expenditure will be used for studies, data gathering and drilling activities over the initial seven-year contract duration. SC 76 is located in the northern side of the East-Palawan Basin covering an area of 648,000 hectares, with water depths ranging from 80 to 1,700 meters.

Under Ratio Petroleum’s approved phased work program, the company has seven years in exploration period to be undertaken in three phases. The first phase covers the acquisition of 2D seismic data, which began on Oct. 17, 2018. The second phase consists of the acquisition of 3D seismic data that would further refine the image of the area’s subsurface geology covering the most prospective clastic and carbonate leads. For the third phase, the drilling of one exploration well would commence to ascertain the presence of oil and gas in the area. Alena Mae S. Flores

treatable, says leading oncologist at NKTI

A LEADING oncologist at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute said cancer is now treatable, thanks to medical advances and innovations.

Dr. Marvin Mendoza, head of the Section of Medical Oncology at NKTI said there is hope for treatment, even at stage 4 or when a cancer has metastasized to other organs—be it breast, liver or cervical—and even more so if they are diagnosed early.

He said the medicines for many different kinds of cancer are already available locally. Going beyond chemotherapy, the government provides targeted therapies for two types of cancer—breast and lymphoma. For breast cancer patients who could not afford the P300,000 to

P450,000 needed to go through the required 18 treatment cycles, they could go to at least 23 public hospitals throughout the country for free treatment.

“Options for treatment include a subcutaneous injection that takes about 5 minutes to administer or a three-hour intravenous administration that also requires an additional two hours or so for preparation,” Mendoza said. He said only about 200 or so patients could be accommodated nationwide because the Department of Health was given only less than P1 billion for the program. There are about 27,000 new cancer cases for breast cancer alone each year, Mendoza said.

“If we have to save more lives, we

need more funds from the government not just for treatment but for testing, because early diagnosis and treatment is far more effective than treating latestage disease,” he said.

Medical innovation has progressed over the years to make treatment more effective and patient-considerate, as well as easier for healthcare providers to administer, reaching more patients in a timely manner, according to Mendoza. “We can beat cancer now. We can save lives. And we are trying our best to make treatment accessible nationwide, especially to those who cannot afford the treatment. In particular, we have medicines for breast cancer and lymphoma available in the DOH hospitals”,

is now

Mendoza said.

CONVERGE’S 1-ARROW. Converge ICT Solutions Inc. receives the 1-Arrow recognition from the Institute of Corporate Directors for its adherence to the highest standards of corporate governance based on the 2021 ASEAN Corporate Governance scorecard report. Joining the awarding ceremony are (from left) Securities and Exchange Commission chairman Emilio Aquino, ICD vice chair and president Ma. Aurora Geotina-Garcia, Converge senior vice president and corporate compliance and data protection officer Laurice Estaban-Tuason, Philippine Stock Exchange president and chief executive Ramon Monzon and ICD chairman Cesar Villanueva.

Cool Smashers turn back HD Spikers, seize early lead

CREAMLINE put up a stellar performance to dispose of a badly-outclassed Cignal side, coming away with a 2516, 25-21, 25-15 romp for its second straight win in the Premeir Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference elims at the Filoil Ecooil Center in San Juan City on Thursday.

The 78-minute victory came on the heels of the Cool Smashers’ 25-18, 2520, 25-22 ripping of arch rival Petro Gazz Angels in last weekend’s inaugurals, underscoring their readiness to defend the championship and put in motion a grand slam bid that failed in the Reinforced Conference late last year.

Filipino-American skater qualifies for 2024 Winter Youth Olympics

By Randy Caluag

FILIPINO-AMERICAN Peter Groseclose will represent the Philippines in the 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games in South Korea.

The announcement was relayed by the International Skating Union to Nikki Cheng, president of the Philippine Skating Union on Wednesday, more than a week after Groseclose participated in the World Juniors Championships in Dresden, Germany.

The 15-year-old Groseclose qualified in three events, namely the 500-meter short tracks speed skating, where he finished 32nd out of 68 participants from all over the globe; 100 meters, where he finished 35th out of 67 bets and in the 1500 meters, where he placed 43rd out of 63 competitors.

“We’re proud of Peter because at 15, he’s one of the youngest participants and he beat some older competitors. So we think, in the Olympics (World Youth),

Filipinas competing in Europe for 1st time

By Peter Atencio

A LOT is expected of the fired-up Philippine national women’s football team as it left for Spain on Thursday to take part in a competition in Europe for the first time.

Team captain Inna Palacios, who just turned 29 on Tuesday, said she will be at her best when the Filipinas get sharp and and ready for the Pinatar Cup 2023 from February 15 to 21 in San Pedro del Pinatar in Murcia, Spain.

“I expect myself to be at my best all the time. It’s a team effort,” said Palacios during a huddle with scribes at the New World Hotel in Makati City.

Their buildup since last year is expected to make the Filipinas a stronger team, but one team member wants to temper all the hype.

“We have big shoes to fill, and with big expectations from outside our circle, we have to be realistic with our own expectations,” said team co-skipper Halli Long.

The Filipinas are making a bid to sustain their buildup for the FIFA Women’s World Cup as they will be facing higher-ranked European sides like Wales, Scotland and Iceland in their coming encounters in the Pinatar Cup.

The Filipinas’ first match will be against 32nd-ranked Wales on February 15. Their next opponent will be 25th-ranked Scotland on February 18, before they wrap up their campaign against no. 16 Iceland on February 21.

Members of the Malditas discussed their coming competition during a meeting with executives of adidas, which signed the team to a four-year partnership, through the Philippine Football Federation.

he can fare better,” said Cheng in an interview with the Manila Standard.

Cheng was alluding to the quirky qualifying system, where countries can send their best seniors to get two slots for their team, then they are allowed to send young players to take the slots.

“Anything can happen. They say in basketball, bilog ang bola. On the ice, we call it ‘madulas ang yelo’. There are uncertainties that could happen in favor or against any athlete,” Cheng added.

The Washington-based Groseclose prepared hard for the Juniors’ Qualifying event as he competed in three Seniors’ tournaments last year --first in the World Cup 1 in Canada, World Cup 2 in Utah, and the Four Continents Cup, also in Utah, where he listed a new national

record in the 1,000-meters’ event. This will be the third time that the Philippines, a tropical country, is able to qualify an athlete the world winter

games for junior athletes. The first was figure skater Michael Martinez in 2012 and the second was Julian Macaraeg in 2020, also in the short track event.

“We’re just doing what we’ve been doing in training – play our best and not rush things up. We also try to correct our mistakes quickly,” said Jema Galanza, who delivered 13 kills to spearhead Creamline’s fiery assault and clinch the player of the game honors.

Michele Gumabao actually topscored for the team with 14 points while Tots Carlos matched Galanza’s output and middles Ced Domingo and Pangs Panaga combined for 16 points. But the highflying Galanza provided the highlight plays with her stinging spikes to perk up what had been a lopsided duel.

“I hope to stay consistent and help provide the leadership and more importantly, improve communication (inside the court),” said the former Adamson U stalwart, who also finished with seven excellent receptions.

The Cool Smashers pulled away late in the opening frame, held off Cignal’s charge midway in the second then dominated the third with their power plays and quick attacks that the HD Spikers had no answer for.

“Overall, maganda ung naging galaw namin at yung ibang break napunta sa min, lalo sa second set nung humabol ang Cignal. Sana magtuloy-tuloy na,” said Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses.

Creamline finished with 48 kills, 25 more than the HD Spikers, who produced just one double-digit output courtesy of Ces Molina, who fired 12 points. Chay Troncoso wound up with six markers while gunners Roselyn Doria and Rachel Anne Daquis could only combine for seven points and middle blocker Riri Meneses struggled for just three points.

Tennis sensation Eala is PSA President’s Awardee

ALEX Eala, the young pretty darling of Philippine tennis today, reached a milestone in 2022 when she captured the 142nd US Open juniors girls’ singles championship under the bright lights of New York City.

The 17-year-old southpaw won the finals without dropping a set to highlight her 6-2, 6-4 domination of third seed Czech Lucie Havlickova during the finals at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows.

It was truly one memorable ride for Eala, who went down in history as the first ever Filipina player to bag a junior singles grand slam crown.

In a scene that truly warmed the heart, Eala proudly spoke in Filipino for the entire world to hear while shedding tears of joy during her acceptance speech.

A student of the Rafael Nadal Academy, the 5-foot-9 stunner already own two grand slam titles in the past, but in doubles competition during the 2019 Australian Open and the 2021 French Open, respectively. Her breakthrough feat and achieving history at such a young age made Eala the perfect choice for the President’s Award in the coming San Miguel Corporation-Philippine Sportswriters Association Annual Awards Night.

“Her sacrifices and relentless drive to improve her craft should serve as template to success. Alex Eala is truly worthy to be a role model especially among the Filipino youth,” said PSA President Rey Lachica, sports editor of Tempo. Set March 6 at the grand ballroom of the Diamond Hotel, the traditional

awards night by the country’s oldest media organization is presented by the Philippine Sports Commission and Cignal TV, and ably supported by the Philippine Olympic Committee, Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham Tolentino, MILO, MVP Sports Foundation, Smart, 1Pacman Rep. Mikee Romero, Philippine Basketball Association, Rain or Shine, ICTSI, and OKBet. Based in Mallorca, Spain for some time now, Eala is in good company as previous recipients of the PSA President’s Award include Olympians Yuka Saso and Caloy Yulo, NU Lady Bulldogs, pool champions Rubilen Amit, Dennis Orcollo, and Lee Van Corteza, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) Chairman Emeritus Manny V. Pangilinan, among others.

Van der Valk survives wobbly finish to stay ahead

STA. ROSA, Laguna—Guido Van der Valk threatened to turn what had been a furious battle into a blowout round but floundered at the finish, barely holding on to a two-stroke lead over Zanieboy Gialon with a 74 in brutal conditions in The Country Club Invitational here yesterday.

The Dutchman looked headed to surviving the toughest of tests at the TCC in three days, staying steady and in control of his game and of the field in howling winds and keeping a five-shot lead after 15 holes over his nearest pursuer. But he made a couple of what he termed as “silly mistakes” that led to two bogeys in the last three holes and enabled Gialon and a charging Lloyd Go to make a run for the coveted championship staked on every Philippine Golf Tour season.

“I’m a little bit disappointed with the end-result because I played really good for about 15 holes and then just

had a couple of bad swings in the end,” rued Van der Valk, who also bogeyed the tough No. 13 for the third straight day. “A bad drive on No. 16 cost me a bogey and had a horrible shot into the water on No. 18.”

Still, he remained on top at five-over 221, two strokes clear of Gialon, who in contrast, closed out with a flourish, birdying two of the last five holes to match Van der Valk’s two-over card for a 223 and stay from where he stood at after 36 holes of the P6 million championship.

Despite Van der Valk’s faltering windup, Gialon remained impressed with the former’s game and poise, particularly after he fell by as many as seven with a bogey on No. 11.

“Parang ang dali ng golf sa kanya (golf seems to come easily to him),” said Gialon, who birdied the first hole to pull within one off Van der

Valk, then, like Clyde Mondilla and majority of the contenders, reeled back with flawed shots and flubbed putts until he regained his touch and rhythm in the last five holes.

That moved Van der Valk, a twoleg winner of last year’s seven-leg PGT, 18 holes away from matching Angelo Que’s back-to-back title feat after the latter edged Mondilla by one in 2020. Que, who shares three titles each with Juvic Pagunsan, broke through in 2007 then swept the 2010 and 2011 editions of the event held in honor of ICTSI founder Don Pocholo Razon.

Gialon muffed birdie chances from close range on Nos. 2 and 7 and made a wet triple-bogey on No. 5 and bogeyed Nos. 9 and 11 before birdies on the 14th and 17th saved what could’ve been a total disaster for the runaway winner of last year’s Caliraya Springs Championship of the Philippine Golf Tour.

Creamline players celebrate after scoring a point.

Peter Groseclose (2nd from left) in action during the World Juniors Championships in Dresden, Germany

Alex Eala

Guido Van der Valk chips onto the 10th green for a birdie. Manny Marcelo

Durant headed to Suns; Westbrook sent to Jazz

SCOTTSDALE—Top-ranked Rory McIlroy, fresh off a victory in Dubai, says he’s playing the best golf of his career as he prepares to tee off Thursday at the PGA Phoenix Open.

The 33-year-old Northern Ireland star beat Patrick Reed by a stroke two weeks ago for his third career Dubai title, then came home to push his game to a peak level.

“I don’t feel like I’ve ever been as complete of a player as I am right now,” McIlroy said Wednesday. “I feel like my base level now is just a little bit higher and a little more consistent.”

World number two Scottie Scheffler, the reigning Masters champion, and Spain’s third-ranked Jon Rahm, who won two PGA events last month, can overtake McIlroy for the top spot with top-two efforts this week.

“I don’t like being number two,” Scheffler said. “I’d rather be number one.”

But McIlroy says he feels like he’s the world’s top player right now.

“I’m playing well. I feel like consistency-wise, I’ve been as good as I’ve been ever in my career,” McIlroy said.

LOS ANGELES—NBA superstar forward Kevin Durant is headed to the Phoenix Suns in a trade from the Brooklyn Nets, US media reported on Wednesday.

ESPN, citing unnamed sources, was among the outlets reporting that the Nets were trading Durant and TJ Warren in exchange for Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder and four first-round draft picks.

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers are poised to trade Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz in a three-team deal that will bring Minnesota’s D’Angelo Russell to the Lakers, US media reported on Wednesday.

ESPN reported that the Lakers will also land Minnesota’s Malik Beasley and Jarred Vanderbilt while the Timberwolves will receive Jazz guards Mike Conley and Nickeil AlexanderWalker as well as draft picks. The Jazz will receive Westbrook

along with Juan Toscano-Anderson, Damian Jones and a future Lakers first-round draft pick, ESPN reported, saying all players had been notified of the deal.

The deal, reported on the eve of the NBA trade deadline, will end Westbrook’s rocky tenure in Los Angeles after one and a half seasons.

The Lakers traded several role players to the Washington Wizards for Westbrook, the 2017 NBA Most Valuable Player and a nine-time AllStar, but he has never been the contributor they envisioned alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis and is now coming off the bench with the Lakers in danger of missing the playoffs for a second straight season.

The Los Angeles Times cited unnamed sources as saying the Lakers are “excited” to get a trio of young players who could help with the shooting issues they have battled all season.

In Russell the Lakers regain the player they made the second overall pick in the NBA draft in 2015. He is averaging 17.9 points and 6.2 assists for Minnesota this season and will be an unrestricted free agent after the season when his $31.4 million contract expires. AFP

McIlroy playing his best as rowdy Phoenix golf tilt looms

“If you just look at my statistical categories, there’s no real glaring weaknesses there. I’ve worked really hard on that, to try to become a more wellrounded player. I think the results speak for themselves.”

McIlroy won his past two PGA starts, at last year’s Tour Championship and CJ Cup, and talks about winning 30 more career titles.

“I don’t think I should be up here if I thought my best days weren’t ahead of me. I can’t be... trying to win golf tournaments if I think the glory days are gone,” McIlroy said. “I’ve won 30-whatever times around the world as a professional. There’s no reason I can’t double that number going forward. I truly believe that.”

McIlroy will have his first true taste of the rowdy Arizona desert crowd at TPC Scottsdale.

Only 5,000 spectators were allowed due to Covid safety issues in 2021, McIlroy’s only prior appearance at Phoenix. More than that will scream from the par-3 16th “coliseum” holes surrounding grandstands this week. AFP

Bay Area team, China Embassy hold charity event in Manila

HONG KONG—In partnership with the Chinese Embassy of the Philippines, the Bay Area Dragons proudly hosted a charity event that took place on February 8, at the home of the Dragons, Shangri-La the Fort in BGC Taguig City.

“It’s a great pleasure to participate in an afternoon of sharing love, promoting culture and celebrating sportsmanship,” said t he Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines. “This event will be an opportunity for the children to improve basketball skills while learning about friendship and teamwork, just like how China and the Philippines built their strong relations.”

Prominent individuals were also present at the charity event, including the Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines, Huang Xilian, Taguig City Mayor, Hon. Lani Cayetano, Chapter President of LFJOY Foundation, Wei “Joy” Zhao, and PBA com-

Obiena-less PH team joining Asian tourney

By Peter Atencio

A FIVE-MAN Philippine national athletics’ squad is set to compete in the Asian Indoor Athletics Championship in Astana, Kazakhstan without top Filipino pole vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena.

Obiena, who recently won his third gold medal for the year in the Orlen Cup in Poland, won’t be able to bring in his poles as the reason for his absence.

“I am truly heartbroken to share this news. I shall be unable to participate in the upcoming Asian Indoor Championships next week in Kazakhstan. I won’t be able to bring glory to my country. I am not injured or sick. I am physically and mentally ready to go. To compete. To fight for gold for The Philippines,” said Obiena

in a Facebook message to supporters. Obiena, who cleared 5.87 meters on his second attempt to win the Orlen Cup gold on Thursday, said a day before competitions in Astana are set to begin, that he tried to work things out with the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association and with his mentor James Lafferty.

Things did not work out for Obiena in his failed trip to Astana because no airline would transport such equipment and Lafferty’s connection could not do it because of the 17-hour drive to the venue.

“Most Asian pole vaulters I know have pulled out for the same reason. It’s a sad state when the best vaulters in Asia are excluded from competing in the biggest indoor championships in Asia.

The second issue is continuing

The challenging realities of PH football

year, only seven teams participated in the Copa Alcantara. Torre said this year’s edition will be bigger and better.

“Itong expansion natin will be the springboard to a bigger tournament in the coming years. We can’t expect something big at once so we have to start small. We already had a national tournament a few months back with the U-19 tournament.

financial issues,” said Obiena as he complained of his unpaid financial dues with the Philippine Sports Commission.

“Despite all the issues of the past supposedly being resolved, my team has not been paid now in over a year. Payments are caught up in red tape. Unfortunately, some of my team are now threatening to leave Team Obiena. I cannot blame them. Who could work free for over a year? They have families to support and bills to pay,” wrote Obiena. So far, Obiena’s complaints have reached PSC chairman Richard Bachmann.

“I immediately communicated with him (Obiena) and made internal actions in the PSC. I also received communication on this matter from the PATAFA and will continue to speed things up to help

“We hope to bring the games closer to fans just like in the UFL (United Football League) before,” he said.

Which brings us to the nagging issue on the status of United City FC’s participation in the second half of the ongoing tournament. Kume Coco said that the league is in constant communication with UCFC and they are optimistic that something definite will come out of the discussions.

AS of now, the Philippines Football League is eyeing the participation of at least 16 teams in the forthcoming Copa Paulino Alcantara, the domestic league’s season ending tournament this year. PFL Commissioner Coco Torre says invitations have been sent to several teams, including squads from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, colleges and universities, and other amateur clubs to battle it out in the Copa Alcantara.

Torre said those invited will have until February 15 to decide whether they will join the tournament or not. He said some of the teams have already confirmed their participation. The PFL will send another round of invitations if the target number of participants will not be reached on the deadline. The league will, likewise, make an official announcement to advise interested clubs to join.

If logistics will allow, Torre said the PFL is open to welcoming teams from the provinces to join the competitions. Last

Lahat ng regional football associations sa mga provinces kasama du’n. We had our first and second divisions with teams coming from all over Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao,” Torre said.

Kume Coco says the participants will be divided into two groups with the top two teams from each group advancing to the crossover semifinals.

“We will review the caliber of the clubs and their players because we don’t want potential tambakan to happen. This will be good because the Copa Alcantara will serve as a venue for benchmarking the quality of football between the national team members, amateur, collegiate, provincial, club players and even those coming from the Armed Forces,” Torre explained.

On a brighter note, Torre revealed that games in Copa Alcantara will also be played at the McKinley Stadium in Taguig City. Torre said based on international rules, the pitch c an be used for domestic competitions.

“The PFL is aware of the alleged internal issues concerning UCFC between the players and the management. Obviously, our main objective is for these matters to be resolved now especially when players and the staff are concerned,” Torre said.

Amid news and speculations on the team’s future, Torre says that there is no official announcement yet from the club.

“There are alleged claims from players but nothing official has been communicated to the PFL. I mean these reports have not been made official to us. But it doesn’t mean that we can just ignore what we hear from the ground,” Torre clarified. “We are discussing with the club, talking about positions and steps that they must take in order to resolve whatever internal issues they are having right now and enable them to participate in the league. We are hoping for the best for the team.”

Torre said issues concerning the status of UCFC will definitely impact the league, but they don’t want to preempt the club on what directions it will eventually take.

A check on the current roster of UCFC

their national sports association and Mr. Obiena. We continue to give the best support we can to our elite athletes,” said Bachmann in a statement.

Southeast Asian Games medallists

Eric Cray (60m), Janry Ubas (Long Jump, Heptathlon), Sarah Dequinan (Pentathlon), Harry Diones (Triple Jump), Leonard Grospe (High Jump) are among those who will see action, according to PATAFA Secretary General Edward Kho, who is in Kazakhstan.

John Cabang Tolentino, a Fil-Spanish prospect, was included in the delegation and came on his own to compete in the 110-meter hurdles.

Tolentino got a self-funded ticket to join the national squad after his performance in the Weekly Relays.

indicates that several players and Philippine Azkals mainstays have transferred to other clubs. Kenshiro Daniels is now with Sukhothai FC, Mark Hartmann has packed his bags and moved to Nakhon SI United FC, while Pika Minegishi has suited up with Uthai Thani FC, all in Thailand. Cholo Bugas, on the other hand, will now don the colors of the Azkal Development Team in the PFL.

“As far as we are concerned, there is nothing official yet so let’s not jump the gun on UCFC’s status. We will cross the bridge when we get there,” Torre added.

Torre said the league has scheduled another meeting with the team to discuss what will be the next steps needed to be done by UCFC. He added that the PFL expects all the clubs to have their matters and affairs in order before the resumption of the second half of the ongoing tournament.

The second half of the domestic league resumes next weekend with an out town tussle between Kaya FC Iloilo and Dynamic Herb Cebu FC in the much anticipated Visayas Derby in Iloilo City and a match between Maharlika FC and Stallion Laguna FC.

In hindsight, whatever is happening right now with UCFC is nothing new. We have seen this several times before with Global FC, Ceres Negros FC, Davao Agilas, Loyola Meralco and several other clubs. These clubs dominated the domestic leagues for several years, even qualifying for regional and Asian

missioner Willie Marcial.

Their presence at the event further cements the impact that the Dragons have made throughout the past six months in their adopted home.

“We are honored to host the charity even with the Chinese Embassy of the Philippines,” said EASL CEO Matt Beyer. “The Bay Area Dragons have been warmly welcomed by the people of the Philippines as guests from China, and it is only right that the team consistently give back to the community.” The charity event included demonstrations of fundamental basketball skills coached by different players on the Bay Area Dragons, followed by mini-games between the players and the kids. There were also segments featuring distribution of school supplies, as well as food and snacks, and the opportunity for the kids to showcase their talents with

competitions. They, however, eventually disbanded due to several reasons, but mostly due to financial concerns.

UCFC’s predicament is a reminder that it is really hard to maintain a professional football club in the Philippines. With no guaranteed returns to owners and stakeholders’ investments, our gratitude to those who continue to advance football in the country, no matter what the circumstances are.

More importantly, it is comforting to know that at least we still have a domestic league , despite and in spite of the many challenges.

On a personal matter, The Designated Kit Man and the rest of the Manila Standard would like to extend our hopes and prayers to the family of Ugur Tasci, the owner of Dynamic Herb Cebu FC, players and to the rest of the members of the coaching staff of the team, whose relatives and loved ones were badly affected by the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria.

Please don’t forget to watch and tune in this Sunday, February 12, 2023 from 2 to 3 p.m. for another kuwentuhan at 3PTS–Pambansang Tambayan ng Sports over DZME 1530 KHZ. Stay safe. Stay happy peeps!

For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_cabatbat@yahoo.com or follow his account at Twitter: @erelcabatbat

Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant (inset) will have new NBA teams. AFP

Rory McIlroy AFP

Ernest John Obiena

Judy Ann, Sam Milby reunite in riveting drama

‘The Diary of Mrs. Winters’

CANADA-bound Judy Ann Santos and Sam Milby are excited to share the good news about their reunion project – the horror-drama thriller The Diary of Mrs. Winters, to be directed by Rahyan Carlos, who by the way, is known as the only accredited teacher of the Chubbuck Technique in the Philippines.

The film is written by National Artist for Film and Broadcast, Ricky Lee together with the esteemed

…are talking about PEOPLE

Heart Evangelista

From her looks at Paris Fashion Week to her relationship with Senator Chiz Escudero, Heart has been the talk of the town. While 2022 was full of hurdles for the actress-socialite, she’s found peace in her life again. Her hubby joined her in Paris even though it wasn’t his thing, making Heart overjoyed. Although she hasn’t talked about the personal struggles she experienced last year, she left all negative energy in the past – as we all should.

director and scriptwriter.

A decade since their first onscreen project in Huwag Ka Lang Mawawala, the new film would mark Santos and Milby’s big-screen comeback after taking on their last projects, both in 2019. This is also Milby’s first horror film.

“I’m happy and excited that finally, a very good project such as this landed on my lap,” Santos shared during a media conference held this week.

“I didn’t have to read the script. Juday pa lang ‘yes’ na agad. After reading the script ang ganda ng kuwento, it’s something really different. As an actor, you want to do new roles and new experiences. So first time ko ‘yung horror so I’m really, really

excited. Ang ganda ng kuwento,” Milby said in turn. Carlos is working with Santos for the first time, and he promises to deliver a terrifying yet dramatic cinema experience that would certainly put the audience at the edge of their seats while also flexing the cast members’ acting prowess.

“This is a story of redemption. Ako kapag gumagawa ako ng horror hindi nananalo yung demonyo. Good always win over evil. It talks about fighting for the people you love most, it

‘The Diary of Mrs. Winters’ is about a Filipina bio-forensic assistant cleaner in Canada whose life is cursed after keeping the diary of an old lady who committed suicide

a Filipina bio-forensic assistant cleaner in Canada named Charity (Santos) whose life is cursed after keeping the diary of an old lady who committed suicide. A series of unfortunate events happen to her, including the death of her loved ones, forcing her to fight for her true love, Victor (Milby)

“To say that this is a dream project is an understatement. Not only because of the fact that I will be reuniting with Ricky Lee as this is our second collaboration, but also because we will be joined by Judy Ann and Sam. We are looking forward to work with both of them as we know that they are artists of world-class caliber. This is also the first full-length Filipino film to be shot amidst the panoramic Ontario, Canada” said Carlos.

talks about overcoming fear,” Carlos said.

Produced by AMP Studios Canada and HappyKarga Films, the film is set to be shot in Canada and in the Philippines.

“When I first started Happy Karga Films with my business partner, Joy Tarce, we knew that we would bank on talents and collaboration both from other film outfits and from the artists. And we couldn’t be more grateful to have found a like-minded individual such as Rechelle Everden of AMP Studios Canada who also believes in the cutting-edge Filipino talent in terms of bringing stories into the big screen,” explained Carlos.

Putting into the spotlight a unique career, The Diary of Mrs. Winters is about

The much-awaited film is slated to be released by the 3rd quarter of the year both locally and internationally.

Happy Karga Films (HKF) which was founded in 2021 is the brainchild of two creative minds, a premier acting coachwriter-director and a top-notch TV and film producer. Their dream was to use their passion and expertise in filmmaking to create relatable and relevant stories.

AMP Studios Canada (AMP Studios) is an artist training and production company that was founded in 2019 in Ontario, Canada. It provides education and training programs to aspiring artists in various aspects of the performing arts.

Iligan City lass is PH’s bet at Miss Charm International 2023 in Vietnam

ANNABELLE McDonnell, Miss Universe

Philippines 2022 first runner-up, is currently in Vietnam competing in the ongoing Miss Charm International 2023. The 22-year-old FilipinoBritish beauty, born in the United Kingdom and raised in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, was appointed by Miss Charm International and local franchise holder Empire TV as the country’s representative.

McDonnell, who’s pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Consular and Diplomatic Affairs at De La Salle-College of St. Benilde, works as an assistant at Iligan City Mayor’s Office. An abandoned child, she worked hard to fulfill her dream to become a beauty queen.

“I can’t believe that I’m living out my dream of representing the Philippines in an international pageant,” said the former Miss Iligan 2018 and Miss Lanao del Norte 2019.

Miss Charm International, a pageant that aims to promote Vietnamese culture and tourism to the world, was launched in 2019 but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It will have its final night on February 16, in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

* * *

Binibining Pilipinas 2023 Top 40 Official

Candidates presented

The Official Top 40 candidates of Binibining Pilipinas 2023 recently named

are a mix of experienced and newcomers in national pageants who will vie for the three titles up for grabs. Anna Lakrini, who finished in the Top 12 last year and is the only returning contestant, leads other aspirants including Angelica Lopez and Mirjan Hipolito, Top 16 semi-finalists in Miss Universe Philippines 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Coming from Miss World Philippines 2021 are Trisha Martinez (Miss Tourism Philippines 2021) and Lea Macapagal (Top 15); while from Miss Philippines Earth are Sofia Galve (Miss Philippines Eco-Tourism 2021), Ma. Gianna Margarita Llanes (Miss Philippines Earth–Water 2020), and Kiara Giel Gregorio (Miss

Philippines Earth-Air 2016).

Mary Joy Dacoron, a professional volleyball player and former member of the Adamson University Lady Falcons, may follow in the footsteps of Michelle Gumabao, who won Bb. Pilipinas Globe 2018. Jessilen Salvador, sister of actress Maja Salvador, also made the list. The rest of the candidates are Elaiza Dee Alzona, Paulina Labayo, Jeanne Isabelle Bilasano, Rheema Adakkoden, Zeah Nestle Pala, Lyra Punsalan, Katrina Mae Sese, Alasha Reign Parani, Samantha Dana Bug-os, Vientree Zoe Santiago, Anje Mae Manipol, Andrea Marie Sulangi, April Angelu Barro, Charismae Almarez, Julia Mae Mendoza, Rasha Cortez Al Enzi, Juvel Cyrene Bea, Tracy Lois Bedua, Sharmaine Magdasoc, Babyernh Llong, Xena Ramos, Paola Allison Araño, Mary Chiles Balan, Pia Isabel Duloguin, Julianne Rose Reyes, Candy Vollinger, Katrina Anne Jhonson, Allhia Charmaine Estores, Lorraine Jara, and Yesley Cabanos.

Bb. Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI), headed by chairperson Stella Márquez Araneta, had withdrawn from the Miss Grand International pageant leaving the organization with the Miss International, Miss Intercontinental, and Miss Globe franchises for the pageant’s 59th edition.

Jessy Mendiola

Childbirth is neither easy nor pretty, but Jessy made it look otherwise. With a complete set of lashes and curled hair, the actress ensured she was picture-ready after going into labor. She sets a good example that while motherhood requires a lot of time and energy, mothers should still look out for themselves and indulge in things that make them happy. It also helps that Jessy has her humorous and doting husband, Luis Manzano, to help her raise their firstborn.

…are not talking about

Willie Revillame

Speculations about problems circulating AllTV have been abuzz on social media lately, but the renowned host decided to clear the air. He explained that Wowowin is having renovations to accommodate a live audience soon, and he further lamented how the public is cheering at their alleged failure as a network. Now, where have we seen similar circumstances before?

Donnalyn Bartolome

After that “be grateful for work”

incident early this 2023, Donnalyn is back at it again with a similar narrative. This time, she’s telling a netizen to be thankful that she has someone who can give her children. Possibly a nod to Donnalyn’s love life, or lack of one, some people found the remark a little tonedeaf because of many possible circumstances, not all of them pretty. Maybe it’s time Donnalyn dropped the grateful script and tried something else for encouragement.

GMA Regional TV launches lineup of morning news programs

VIEWERS in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao now have first access to the latest and relevant local news as GMA Regional TV (RTV) launches its morning news shows brought by the same teams that produce the award-winning RTV weekday flagship afternoon newscasts.

“We start 2023 with the launch of GMA Regional TV morning news programs as we remain steadfast in our mission to enrich the lives of Filipinos everywhere with the responsible delivery of news and information in various communities across the Philippines, solidifying GMA Integrated News as the ‘News Authority of the Filipino,’” says Oliver Victor Amoroso, First Vice President and Head of GMA Regional TV and Synergy, and Acting Head of GMA Integrated News.

From North Central Luzon, catch Mornings with GMA Regional TV anchored by award-winning regional news producer Joanne Ponsoy with presenter Harold Reyes. The pioneering morning show is produced by the team behind the top-rating and awardwinning afternoon flagship newscast GMA Regional TV One North Central Luzon.

Joining Joanne and Harold are Pangasinan-based regional correspondents Jasmin GabrielGalban, Russel Simorio, and Claire Lacanilao; Ilocos-based regional correspondent Ivy Hernando and a wide network of stringers in Abra, Aurora, Bataan, Batanes, Benguet, Cagayan, Isabela, La Union, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Pampanga, Quirino, Tarlac, and Zambales.

Following its recent special citation for Best Public Service Program from the Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA), GMA Regional TV Live! will keep Kapuso viewers in the loop for important local news. Anchored by GMA Regional TV Balitang Bisdak award-winning regional correspondent Nikko Sereno and veteran news presenter Cecille Quibod-Castro, the program continues its brand of serbisyong totoo in Central and Eastern Visayas. Joining them are regional correspondents Alan Domingo, LouAnne Mae Rondina, and Fe Marie Dumaboc with stringers from Bohol, Leyte, Negros Oriental, Samar, and

‘Mornings with GMA Regional TV’ will be anchored by award-winning regional news producer Joanne Ponsoy with presenter Harold Reyes Siquijor.

Meanwhile, the first-ever unified Hiligaynon TV morning program, GMA Regional TV Early Edition, now delivers the latest news for Western Visayas. Stay updated with broadcast journalist Adrian Prietos and news presenter Kaitlene Rivilla. With them are Iloilo City-based regional correspondents Zen Quilantang, Darylle Marie Sarmiento, and John Sala; and Bacolod City-based regional news producer Aileen Pedreso

Also contributing the latest stories are stringers in Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo Province, and Negros Occidental.

Viewers in Mindanao can catch more news that matters to them with At Home with GMA Regional TV

The first and only unified morning news program in Mindanao, At Home with GMA Regional TV is anchored by award-winning Davao-based regional correspondent Jandi Esteban, Cagayan de Oro-based regional news producer Cyril Chaves, Zamboanga-based regional news producer Krissa Dapitan, and General Santos-based regional news producer Abbey Caballero

With the team are Davao Citybased regional correspondent Rgil Relator and regional news producer Kent Abrigana ; General Santos Citybased regional news producer Jestoni Jumamil ; Cagayan de Oro-based regional news producer James Paolo Yap ; and Zamboanga-based regional news producer Efren Mamac Stringers from Bukidnon, Butuan City, Cotabato City, Davao Provinces, Dipolog, Iligan City, Jolo in Sulu, Kidapawan City, Pagadian City, and Surigao City also contribute to the morning newscast.

From left: Director Rayhan Carlos, Judy Ann Santos, and Sam Milby

The Reigning Binibini Queens that the new candidates will succeed

Watsons Philippines unveils 1,000th store in Manila

LEADING health and beauty retailer, Watsons, celebrated an important milestone as it opened its 1,000th store in the Philippines, adding to a total of 8,000 Watsons stores across 15 markets in Asia and Eastern Europe. The new store opening coincided with Watsons’ 20th anniversary in the Philippines, one of its fastest-growing markets.

Spanning almost 1,000 square meters, the new flagship store is located in The Block, SM City North Edsa Block in Manila. As the biggest store in the country, it showcases the most comprehensive array of health and beauty products in an engaging way that will take the shopping experience to the next level.

Dominic Lai, Group Managing Director of A.S. Watson Group, officiates at the store opening event and says, “This new flagship store is important in the nationwide expansion in this beautiful country as it’s a clear demonstration of Watsons’ determination to strengthen our connection with customers via seamless O+O platforms. O+O platform strategy is at the core of our business to create an integrated experience, to better serve customers anytime, anywhere.”

“Besides celebrating the 1,000th store opening, today marks Watsons’ 20 years of commitment to serving our customers in the Philippines. Over the years, we’ve been working to deliver our purpose to help customers ‘Look Good, Do Good, Feel Great.’”

To respond to the customers’ needs, Watsons’ new flagship store is not only designed to offer a modern and stylish shopping environment, but also to create an immersive and interactive “O+O” experience for its customers. Leveraging on an extensive store network in the Philippines, Online Express

skin analysis tool that creates personalized skincare recommendations based on selfies. The tool, which is also housed in the Watsons app, is able to detect a range of facial attributes from a customer’s selfie, including acne, fine lines, pigmentation, and overall skin condition.

The new store also has its first stateof-the-art clinic powered by The Medical City that features virtual consultation and remote physical examination. Vaccination services for flu, HPV, and pneumonia will be available at the clinic soon.

Questions to ask to get close to your crush (or anyone)

Watsons Supplement Finder is also available to support the pharmacy service and help customers get personalized recommendations on the best vitamins and supplements for them.

Teresita Sy-Coson, Co-Chairman of SM Investments, congratulates Watsons on the double celebrations, “Our longterm partnership with Watsons has realized our promise of bringing the best-in-class health & beauty products to all Filipinos.

It’s our pleasure to celebrate this remarkable milestone with Watsons and we will continue to work closely to raise the standard of health and beauty in the Philippines through Watsons’ seamless O+O platforms.”

and the planet with us through our sustainability programs,” Lai concludes.

IN ANY relationship, romantic or otherwise, connection is one of the things we seem to look for. Sometimes, we only realize that after experiencing the joy of meeting someone whose vibe perfectly matches ours. The time frame for us to get close to someone typically varies. It may take years, days, or evenjusthours!Butwhatifthere’sahacktoget close to someone faster?

While doing research for graduate school, I chanced upon the academic paper The Experimental Generation of Interpersonal Closeness:

A Procedure and Some Preliminary Findings (Aron et al., 1997) that became the basis for several articles I read in the past, featuring the 36 questions that “make people fall in love.”

Upon reading the whole piece, I discovered that the questions form part of an experiment to induce interpersonal closeness and are applicable to any kind of relationship. Apparently, the viral closeness-generating questions were more effective than another set of 36 ones done for small talk.

I believe that allowing ourselves to be vulnerable in front of someone with whom we share personal information will create intimacy. We also get to zoom in on a person’s core when someone opens up and lets the guard down. There is implied trust that comes with self-disclosure. When you are ready, you may want to use the 3 sets (with a total of 36) of questions that aim to get you close or closer to someone. Keep the list handy in case you get a date this coming Valentine’s Day. Here you go:

Set I 1.Giventhechoiceofanyoneintheworld, whom would you want as a dinner guest?

2. Would you like to be famous? In what way?

3. Before making a telephone call, do you ever rehearse what you are going to say? Why?

4. What would constitute a “perfect” day for you?

5. When did you last sing to yourself? To someone else?

6. If you were able to live to the age of 90 and retain either the mind or body of a 30-yearold for the last 60 years of your life, which would you want?

7. Do you have a secret hunch about how you will die?

8. Name three things you and your partner appear to have in common.

9. For what in your life do you feel most grateful?

Ask

... “

27. If you were going to become a close friend with your partner, please share what would be important for him or her to know.

28. Tell your partner what you like about them; be very honest this time, saying things that you might not say to someone you’ve just met.

29. Share with your partner an embarrassing moment in your life.

30. When did you last cry in front of another person? By yourself?

31. Tell your partner something that you like about them already.

via Click & Collect Express. This new Watsons store is a model for the future of beauty shopping with special discovery areas. There’s a Skinfie Lab, a Set

32. What, if anything, is too serious to be joked about?

33. If you were to die this evening with no opportunity to communicate with anyone, what would you most regret not having told someone? Why haven’t you told them yet?

34. Your house, containing everything you own,catchesfire.Aftersavingyourlovedonesand pets, you have time to safely make a final dash to saveanyoneitem.Whatwoulditbe?Why?

35. Of all the people in your family, whose death would you find most disturbing? Why?

36. Share a personal problem and ask your partner’s advice on how he or she might handle it. Also, ask your partner to reflect back to you how you seem to be feeling about the problem you have chosen.

Let the author know your thoughts. Send Kate an email at randomrepublika@gmail.com.

(Source: Aron, A., Melinat, E., Aron, E. N., Vallone, R. D., & Bator, R. J. (1997). The experimental generation of interpersonal closeness: A procedure andsomepreliminaryfindings.Personalityandsocial psychologybulletin,23(4),363-377)

“Looking ahead, we’re committed to continuing our expansion in the Philippines, as well as the rest of the world. Besides bringing pleasurable O+O shopping experience to our customers, we want to engage our customers to do good to the community

To inspire its customers to live a sustainable lifestyle, Watsons offers over 1,500 Sustainable Choices products under Clean beauty, refill packs, better packaging, and better ingredients for customers so that they can contribute to create a better world. Watsons has also mobilized its customers to create a bigger impact with community programs such as sponsorship of free corrective surgeries for cleft children under Givea-Smile is targeted to empower 3,300 families in the Philippines by 2030, and the Alagang Pangkalusugan community medical outreach program will likewise be supporting 20,000 people with free medicines in the coming years. The celebration activities will continue throughout the year as Watsons show appreciation to customers, partners, and colleagues through the #WeLoveYou1000Ways campaign.

From left: PMPC President Fernan de Guzman, QC Mayor Joy Belmonte, Connie Angeles, with PMPC past presidents Joe Barrameda, Roldan Castro, and Rommel Gonzales

SM Foundation’s Executive Director for Health and Medical Programs Connie S. Angeles was recognized by the Philippine Movie Press Club with the Ading Fernando Lifetime Achievement Award.

Ading Fernando Lifetime Achievement Award is an honorary Star Award for Television to recognize long-time television personalities including entertainers, actors, hosts, producers, and directors. It was named after Ading Fernando, a director, scriptwriter, and actor until his death in 1984. He was the creator of the long-running television show John en Marsha.

Previous Ading Fernando Lifetime Achievement awardees include Nora Aunor, Vilma Santos, Pilita Corrales, Nova Villa, Susan Roces, Gloria Romero, and Johnny Manahan, among others.

In 1990, Angeles was bestowed with the Best Public Service Program Host award for the television show Kapwa Ko, Mahal Ko.

Earlier in 1989, she bagged the Producer of Best Children’s Show award, an award she again garnered in 1998. Angeles is an alumna of the University of the Philippines. She has over nine years of experience in politics: as a two-term Councilor and later as ViceMayor of Quezon City. She held several positions in various professional and civic organizations.

Apart from the PMPC recognition, she has received local and international awards from the

government, and private sector, as well as from international organizations. Despite her busy schedule as SM Foundation Executive Director, Angeles makes time to be involved in causeoriented activities for the welfare of women and children.

In her acceptance speech during the 35th PMPC Star Awards ceremony held at the Winford Resort and Casino last month, Angeles recalled her entry into the show business, her unforgettable experiences, and the lessons she learned along the way. When she was five years old, she starred in Eskwelahang Munti and would later be discovered to play the role of Oreng, Vilma Santos’s sister in the movie Trudis Liit. This paved way for other projects in show business and in television.

In the same speech, she thanked Orly Mercado who paved the way for her involvement in public service through Kapwa Ko, Mahal Ko, a program that aims to transform the lives of the disadvantaged through guidance, connection, and empowerment. It taps private donors to help shoulder expensive medical and surgical procedures needed by indigent patients.

Serving as a venue for seeking assistance, it is aired on GMA-7 and for some time it was also a clinic-on-air where medical specialists explain the prevention, symptoms, and cure of diseases.

Angeles also thanked SM Foundation for extending assistance to PMPC members through the Foundation’s medical missions.

SNAPSHOT

Watsons executives during the unveiling of their 1,000th store

Viki Herrera-Encarnacion, Watsons PR and Sustainability Director Jared De Guzman, Watsons Customer Director

Being vulnerable in front of someone with whom we share personal information will create intimacy