Manila Standard - 2023 March 5 - Sunday

Negros Or. gov., 5 others killed

Gov. Degamo shot in his house, 3 of 10 suspects arrested, P5m offered for info

n By JOEL ZURBANO, MARICEL CRUZ, VITO BARCELO AND BOBBY LAGSA

NEGROS Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo and five other people were shot dead by at least ten gunmen—three of whom were arrested and identified as former military servicemen—inside the governor’s home in Pamplona at around 9:30 in the morning on Saturday.

“Governor Degamo did not deserve that kind of death. He was serving his constituents on a Saturday,” said Degamo’s widow, Janice, who is also the mayor of Pamplona, in a video posted on

More than 40 Chinese ships spotted near Pag-asa Island

THE Philippine Coast Guard said on Saturday Chinese vessels—one from the Navy, one from Coast Guard and 42 suspected maritime militia ships—were spotted near Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea.

“These Chinese vessels are estimated to have a distance of approximately 4.5 to 8 nautical miles from Pag-asa Island, clearly inside the land feature’s 12-nautical-mile territorial sea,” the PCG said in a statement.

The PCG said the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy vessel and

China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel 5203 were observed to be “slowly loitering” within the surrounding waters of the island.

Fourteen suspected Chinese maritime militia vessels were anchored within the vicinity of Pag-asa Cay 3, while 28 vessels were seen within the area of Pag-asa Cay 4.

“Their continuing unauthorized presence is clearly inconsistent with the right of innocent passage and a blatant violation of the Philippines’ territorial integrity,” the PCG said.

Facebook.

The governor died while being treated at the Polymedic Hospital about two hours later.

The Philippine National Police said the suspects – wearing

camouflage uniforms and bulletproof vests and carrying long firearms –escaped on board three getaway vehicles: a Mitsubishi Pajero (NQZ 735), an Isuzu pickup truck (GRY 162) and a Mitsubishi Montero (YAP 163).

Three suspects – identified as Joric Labrador, Joven Aber and Benjie Rodriguez – were arrested by the Negros Oriental Police in Sitio Punong, Barangay Cansumalig, Bayawan around 4:20 p.m.

Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla offered a P5 million reward for anyone who can give information on the mastermind of the killing while Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos described the attack as “premeditated.” ( See related story on A2 )

PH eyes Japan help on oil spill

THE Philippine government is looking at seeking Japan’s help to contain a rapidly spreading oil spill in Oriental Mindoro which has started to affect three villages in Caluya, Antique after the tanker M/T Princess Empress capsized off the coast of Naujan town on Feb. 28.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista on Saturday said the Philippine Coast Guard is working with relevant agencies to contain and recover the slick that could threaten the Verde Island Passage,which has been described as “the center of the center of marine shore fish biodiversity.”

“Our Coast Guard is there and monitoring how it could further prevent the spill from spreading. Hopefully, it will not reach Verde Island, which is a

Gov’t mobilizes for next week’s transport strike

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has organized an Inter-Agency Monitoring Team (IAMT) in preparation for a weeklong transport strike starting on Monday, the Presidential Communications Office said.

protected area,” Bautista said.

Verde Island is located between Batangas province and Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro.

“We’re looking at asking the Japanese government for help because I was told that they have the capacity to assist us,” he added.

The University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UP-MSI) estimated that 20,000 hectares of coral reef, nearly 10,000 hectares of mangroves, and 6,000 hectares of seagrass are at risk in 21 municipalities across Oriental Mindoro, Occidental Mindoro, Palawan, and Antique.

Among these are Calapan, Puerto Galera, and Bulalacao in Oriental Mindoro; San Jose in Occidental Mindoro; and Coron in Palawan.

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority acting head Romando Artes said a meeting will be held today (Sunday) to “finalize emergency plans, prepositioning of assets and identifying transport routes that will be affected by the strike.”

“We will ensure that there will be a maximum deployment, including the NCRPO [National Capital Region Police Office], during the transport strike,” said MMDA general manager Procopio Lipana, head of the IAMT.

The government has consistently downplayed the strike threat, saying only six percent of jeepney drivers are joining the protest.

However, the MMDA, Philippine National Police, and Armed Forces of the Philippines will deploy over a hundred vehicles and mobilize personnel for crowd disturbance. Vito Barcelo, Joel Zurbano, Darwin Amojelar and Maricel Cruz

SCENES FROM A MURDER. Screengrab photos from a CCTV footage show armed men shooting inside the house of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo Saturday morning. Degamo and five others were killed.

FIERY SUNSET. People watch the sunset in shades of orange and red along the shore of the West Philippine Sea in Morong, Bataan over the weekend. Manny Marcelo

ARRESTED. Three of at least 10 gunmen who shot dead Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo were arrested Saturday afternoon.

Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo

AYUDA. Tingog Party-list Rep. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez hands over P3,000 in financial assistance to each of 1,000 pedicab drivers and turns over Negosyo Karts (NegoKarts) to 25 pre-identified recepients from various cities and towns in Leyte’s First District.

UN leader slams rich nations for preying on poor countries

UN LEADER Antonio Guterres on Saturday slammed the world’s rich countries and energy giants for throttling poor nations with “predatory” interest rates and crippling fuel prices.

Guterres told a summit of the most deprived states on the planet that wealthy nations should provide $500 billion a year to help others “trapped in vicious cycles” that block their efforts to boost economies and improve health and education.

The summit of the 46 Least Developed Countries (LDC) is normally

Political leaders condemn killing of Gov. Degamo

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. strongly condemned the assassination of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo.

“My government will not rest until we have brought the perpetrators of this dastardly and heinous crime to justice. The investigation into this murder is developing rapidly. We have received much information and now have a clear direction on how to proceed to bring to justice those behind this killing.”

“You can run but you cannot hide. We will find you. If you surrender now it will be your best option,” the President added.

Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio said Degamo's murder “exposes the extent of desperation, depravity, and thirst for violence of the people who masterminded it, as they showed an absolute absence of regard for the lives of the five civilians who were among the fatalities — making it all the more appalling and unforgivable.”

Both leaders of Congress likewise added their voices in condemning the killing.

"This act of violence is reprehensible. This is a direct challenge to the authorities," said House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said the string of attacks on local politicians was “especially alarming.”

“We cannot keep on letting these go on, especially when it puts innocent civilians in the crossfire. Every single incident like this ambush puts a dent on our people's trust in the government. It is a failure of intelligence, a failure of police visibility, a failure of our peace and security efforts,” Zubiri said.

held every 10 years, but has twice been delayed since 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Afghanistan and Myanmar, two of the poorest countries, are not present at the meeting in Doha because their governments are not recognized by UN members. No leader from any of the world’s major economies attended.

At the summit opening, Guterres hit out straight away at the way poor nations are treated by the more powerful.

“Economic development is challenging when countries are starved for resources, drowning in debt, and still struggling with the historic injustice of an unequal COVID-19 response,” he said.

The LDCs have long complained that they did not get their fair share of the COVID vaccines that were concentrated on Europe and North America.

“Combatting climate catastrophe

that you did nothing to cause is challenging when the cost of capital is sky-high” and the financial help received “is a drop in the bucket”, said Guterres.

“Fossil fuel giants are raking in huge profits, while millions in your countries cannot put food on the table.”

Guterres said the poorest nations were being left behind in the “digital revolution” and the Ukraine war had only increased prices they pay for food and fuel.

“Our global financial system was designed by wealthy countries, largely to their benefit,” he said. AFP

INBRIEF

Tingog turns over laptops from DICT

TINGOG Party-list Rep. Yedda

Marie K. Romualdez has turned over laptops from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to 197 teachers and employees of various government offices.

“Our partnership with the Marcos administration has been bringing fruits. We hope that these laptop units will bring more productivity to many more beneficieries Thank you very much for the support,” Rep. Yedda Romualdez said during the turnover on Friday.

Her colleague in Tingog, Rep. Jude Acidre, and Undersecretary Terrence Calatrava of the Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas also attended the turnover.

“Tingog Party List Rep. Yedda Romualdez and I, in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) led by Regional Director Felix Tabano Jr. and the Office of Speaker Martin Romualdez distributed laptop units to beneficiaries from 44 different schools in Eastern Visayas. Thank you for your continued support!” Acidre said. Maricel V. Cruz

DAR, BJMP in CV renew ARB tie-up

EMERGENCY

FERRIES. Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) acting chairman Don Artes and General Manager Col. Procopio Lipana inspect the 25 “Libreng Sakay” vehicles to ferry affected passengers for the expected weeklong transport strike next week at the New MMDA Building in Pasig City on Saturday. The same happened with PBGen Andre Perez Dizon, District Director Manila Police District (inset). Manny Palmero and Norman Cruz

DOLE panel from ‘Eddie Garcia bill’ seen

n ByMARICEL V. CRUZ

CAMARINES Sur Rep. Luis Raymund

Villafuerte has expressed hope that the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) would soon put up a tripartite council meant to guarantee all workers in the film and TV-radio entertainment industries a safe environment in their workplace.

This would include commensurate compensation and regulated work hours for their unconventional job schedules.

Villafuerte made the appeal as he is confident of the Senate’s favorable on the House-approved “Eddie Garcia” bill that mandates the DOLE’s creation of a Film, Television and Radio Entertainment Industry Tripartite Council.

A lead author of HB 1270, Villafuerte said this Council is envisioned to help oversee the implementation of the House-passed “Eddie Garcia Act,” which seeks full job protection for all workers in these three sectors, including independent contractors who are hired to do production work and other services like

distribution and exhibition of content.

“Such labor-related protection during their work hours and adequate or commensurate compensation for their services are required by the House-passed bill for all of the work hours of these regular and contractual workers, more so when their jobs involve out-of-town shoots and/or lockin production requiring them to stay within sets or location sites for 24 hours straight or even for several days or months,” Villafuerte, president of the National Unity Party, said.

BARMM top tax-remitting agencies lauded in BIR 2022 yearend report

n By NASH B. MAULANA

COTABATO CITY— Five agencies of the Bangsamoro Government were cited in a yearend report of the Bureau of Internal Revenue as top tax-remitting public offices in the records of the BIR’s District No. 107 in this city.

The BIR District Office made the recognition on March 2 honoring the five agencies of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in ceremonies marking the start of the year’s BIR Tax Campaign here.

BARMM’s contribution to the national government’s intensified tax campaign has been generated through taxes withheld from goods and ser-

Robin wants to give more teeth to the MTRCB

n By JOEL E. ZURBANO

SENATOR Robinhood Padilla wants to further strengthen the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) in order to curb objectionable movies and other audio-visual materials.

Padilla filed Senate Bill 1940, saying the MTRCB at present cannot “address the changing demands of our time” due to the limited jurisdiction, organizational structure and operational competence provided by an almost 40 years old law. The bill mandates the MTRCB to

go after, among others, materials that express “national, racial or religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility, violence, or stereotyping or prejudice against the Filipino people, indigenous people or any ethnic group within or outside the country.”

“Almost 40 years since its creation, MTRCB proves to be bereft of the opportunity to address the changing demands of our time because of its limiting jurisdiction, organizational structure, and operational competence. It also lacks the enabling powers to cover

potent types of visual media that have proliferated in many forms, including onlinestreaming platforms, on-demand streaming services, and even video games,” said Padilla, chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media.

“Hence, MTRCB, as the primary quasi-judicial government agency responsible for the review and classification of television programs, movies, and publicity materials, must have the expressed mandate to effectively and adequately carry out its purpose and objectives,” the actor-turned-politician added.

vices derived from paid contracts in the region’s procurement program, and from salaries drawn by the region’s workforce

According to the BARMM Human Resource Development Plan, the region has some 4,000 officials and employees, apart from tens of thousands of teaching and non-teaching professionals serving its education sector.

The local BIR District Office cited the Office of the Chief Minister (OCM); the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA); as well as the BARMM’s Ministry of Health (MOH); Ministry of Public Works (MPW), and the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE), as the region’s top tax withheld remitting agencies.

THE Department of Agrarian Reform Region (DAR) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Cagayan Valley region have renewed their partnership to help agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in sustaining their livelihood activities.

The agreement, implemented under the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty Program (EPAHPP), is a government initiative addressing food security, hunger, and poverty problems through the cooperation and convergence of essential services of various government agencies. In a statement, the DAR said the activity is in consonance with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella III to uplift the economic lives of the ARBs. Maricel V. Cruz

Japanese scammer turned over to BI

A JAPANESE national wanted by authorities in his country for impersonating a police officer and for scamming was arrested by Bureau of Immigration agents.

Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco said Yoshiyuki Nishio, 59, was turned over by the National Capital Region Police Office Regional Intelligence Division to the BI.

Nishio was previously arrested last February 4 inside Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan, Taguig for violation of Section 1 (k) of Republic Act 10883 or illegal transfer of plate, RA 4136, for violation of Land Transportation and Traffic Code, and Article 172 of RPC or Falsification of Private Individual and use of Falsified Documents. He was said to have been found inside the camp in a vehicle with an illegally transferred plate number. He was also said to have presented a fake driver’s license.

Nishio, who carried the alias Kenjie Kimura, was found to be the subject of an existing Summary Deportation Order issued in 2020. Vito Barcelo

FOR INQUEST.

Policemen escort Daniel Perry, also known as ‘Sting’ –the alleged master initiator of the hazing rites that killed Adamson University student John Matthew Salilig, during the inquest proceeding at the Department of Justice in Manila. Danny Pata

ARRIVAL HONORS. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez and PBGEN Rommel Francisco Marbil commander PNP Region 8 salute to the flag and Honor Guards during the Speaker’s arrival at Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport in Tacloban City Saturday morning. Ver Noveno

Indonesians search charred homes as depot fire kills 17

RESIDENTS searched through the remains of their charred homes Saturday after a fuel storage depot fire in Jakarta left at least 17 people dead, including two children.

After Friday night’s blaze at state energy firm Pertamina’s Plumpang depot in north Jakarta, Indonesian officials called for an audit of “all fuel facilities and infrastructures” in the country.

Fifty people were injured, with many left with severe burns, and hundreds more living in residential areas near the depot had to be evacuated, the Jakarta fire and rescue department said.

“It started with a very strong smell. It was so strong that we could hardly breathe,” witness Swastono Aji told AFP.

“Then we were leaving this area when we suddenly heard a very loud explosion.”

Top officials including the minister responsible for state-owned firms like Pertamina called for a probe into the fire’s cause and an audit of the country’s energy facilities after several fires in recent years.

“After we had multiple fires... it is clear that we must audit all fuel facilities and infrastructures, especially tanks and refineries,” Sugeng Suparwoto, head of the parliament’s energy commission, told local broadcaster Metro TV on Saturday.

In 2021, a massive blaze broke out at the Balongan refinery in West Java, also owned by state oil company Pertamina and one of Indonesia’s biggest oil refineries.

That same depot had seen a fire break out in 2009 and in 2014 – when it spread to 40 houses around it. No casualties were reported in either of those cases. AFP

HK Tiananmen vigil organizers convicted

THREE former organizers of Hong Kong’s annual vigil to commemorate Beijing’s deadly Tiananmen crackdown were found guilty on Saturday for refusing to submit information to national security police.

The candlelight vigil was banned by authorities in 2020, weeks before Beijing imposed a sweeping national security law to stamp out political dissent in Hong Kong following large-scale and sometimes violent pro-democracy protests a year earlier.

The three defendents were found guilty of failing to comply with a

request for information issued by authorities in 2021, which can lead to six months in jail and a maximum fine of HK$100,000 (US$12,745) under the security law.

“For prevention and investigation, information is the core... any obstruction would defeat the whole process,” read the verdict by magistrate Peter Law, who is among a pool of judges handpicked by the city government to try national security cases. The court is set to sentence Chow Hang-tung, Tang Ngok-kwan and Tsui Hon-kwong on March 11.

The Hong Kong Alliance – of which the three were a part – had organized an annual candlelight vigil for over three decades to mourn victims of China’s bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protesters in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square on June 4, 1989.

The Alliance was forced to disband in September 2021 after all seven members of its standing committee were charged in cases under the security law.

Five members, including vice chairwoman Chow, were prosecuted for refusing to provide information requested by the police. AFP

INBRIEF

US ignores Russia warning on arms as Biden meets Scholz

THE United States responded Friday to a Russian warning against arming Ukraine by offering a further $400 million in security assistance, as President Joe Biden hosted German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in a show of unity against Moscow.

The head of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group meanwhile said its forces had “practically encircled” the eastern Ukraine city of Bakhmut, which has seen the fiercest fighting of Moscow’s invasion.

Western military aid for Ukraine has been key to Kyiv’s ability to hold out against Moscow’s military onslaught and to even regain ground, but the Kremlin said such assistance will only “prolong the conflict and have sad consequences for the Ukrainian people.” AFP

Japan’s PM hit for linking loans to having babies

JAPANESE Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has come under fire for his party’s proposal to reduce student debt for those who have children, as the country struggles to raise its low birthrate.

Kishida has pledged “unprecedented” measures to tackle the country’s perennially low birthrate, and his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is reportedly drafting a set of policy recommendations on the issue for the government.

But the reported debt forgiveness plan has sparked anger.

“Scholarship debt reduction and whether an individual would have a baby or not are completely different issues, aren’t they?” opposition lawmaker Noriko Ishigaki asked Kishida at an upper house session Friday. AFP

BURNT REMAINS. A boy stands in the remains of a burnt house in a residential area in Plumpang, north Jakarta on March 4, 2023 after a fire at a nearby state-run fuel storage depot run by energy firm Pertamina. AFP

MADLABS.ph: Rocking its way into the BPO space

AGUITAR and music enthusiast is living the life he can only dream of. As founder and CEO of an up and rising business process outsourcing (BPO) company, Victor Madlangbayan can only speak of opportunities that sustained his company and workers, and of opportunities yet to come.

He established MADLABS.ph, a startup BPO firm, with co-founder Marlon Suez, another old hand in the BPO game, from a concept that cropped up in a catch-up conversation during the 25th alumni homecoming at his high school alma mater. Everything started when he got a redundancy offer for one of his technical staff. As the project engineer and the immediate supervising official, he knew the situation will not bode well for his deputy. He then offered to promote his assistant, and packed-up for an early retirement opportunity.

“Which is exactly the perfect timing since there was this offer from a client in France needing first level technical support. The offer was to set up a Manila branch but I coaxed them into letting me put up my own company and them outsource the work to me,” he said, adding that he has been hopping from one multinational firm to another in the last 15 years.

The retirement package he got from his previous job served as seed money for his BPO venture. It was in February 2020 that the company officially operated, just a month after the pandemic lockdown started, but business seemed to be as brisk as ever, withstanding pandemic challenges and getting through the crisis unscathed.

A year in the pandemic and over a million pesos paid for lease in an empty office in Rockwell had Madlangbayan transferred the business to an offsite in Tagaytay City, but the business retained a virtual office in Rockwell where front desk functions are still kept.

From the get go, MADLABS.ph offers 24/7 first level technical support but by mid-2022, the BPO was accorded another function for second level

support. It also provides IT and project management services.

The French client, a VPN (virtual private network) provider, stayed with the BPO firm throughout the pandemic giving livelihood to about 9 to 11 workers but with the recent added roles, MADLABS.ph has already expanded its labor force to around 30 workers, including administrative staff.

The MADLABS CEO said he’s a firm believer in grabbing opportunities as they come, to go fast, but he makes sure to put the brakes on. He knows that while the business is self-funded, the fact remains that the firm is still a young start-up.

“We don’t want to spend ourselves thinly. That’s why having one customer is good enough for us, for now,” he said.

MADLABS.ph is in talks with a client for a small campaign, basically providing technical support. PayPal, however, is looking for a 50-seater capacity for its latest expansion in the Philippines.

MADLABS.ph has been considering the business proposal, even toying with the

Filipino invention reduces fuel consumption and toxic emission

By Ben Cal

A FILIPINO inventor has developed an anti-pollution device called “Hydrogasifier” that eliminates carbon emissions from vehicles, ships, and generators of up to almost zero percent and saves fuel consumption by as much as 50 percent, thus adding more power to the engine.

Hydrogasifier inventor Roberto V. Celis said the apparatus is a technology that dissociates water into hydrogen gaseous fuel and oxygen combustion enhancer by using the heat of a running internal combustion engine.

“When gaseous fuel is used as supplemental fuel in running engine, it causes the fossil fuel to burn completely that results in near zero carbon emission. What is significant is that this helps mitigate climate change and saves up to 50 percent of valuable imported fossil fuel,” he explained.

Climate Change is the main cause of rising world temperature, rising sea level and strong typhoons, he added.

Celis made an actual demonstration of how the Hydrogasifier works, during an exclusive interview at the inventor’s home in Marikina City Wednesday.

“My invention was a product of a wide and long research for 3 decades, and I found that water plays a vital role in the development of Hydrogasifier. The country would save billions of dollars

annually from oil imports when used on transport vehicles, electric power generators to produce cheap electricity and marine engines,” Celis said.

He noted the country may earn billions of dollars from carbon trading as per Kyoto Protocol of 1997 on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement of 2016, “wherein 50 rich polluting countries will contribute billions of dollars to the United Nations Climate Change Fund.”

“The Hydrogasifier technology is an economical method of producing renewable and sustainable energy because it only uses water as a raw material and the heat from engines to dissociate water into powerful green gaseous fuel. It is applicable to gasoline, diesel, bunker, LPG and hybrid engines. It is adaptable to land vehicles, electric generators and marine engines.

It can be used on old and new engines,” he said.

Celis added that “the technology is safe for engines, the users and the public, since hydrogen storage is unnecessary. The hydrogen produced is immediately burned with the fossil fuel in the combustion chamber of the engine.”

He claimed that the production of Hydrogasifier in the country will generate millions of jobs aside from getting additional income to the national treasury annually.

idea of further expanding its capacity to accommodate the new campaign, but admitted that it will be a bit expensive for the company to set-up camp for at least 50 call center agents, at this point in time, when it has already jumped into a new acquisition deal and plans for a new business that is entirely dissimilar to BPO. Under MADLABS.ph , two units are operating - the ITOPS.MADLABS.PH for IT operations outsourcing and the APPS.MADLABS.PH, for applications development and project management. These 2 units are the bread and butter of MADLABS GROUP, INC., a holding firm that Madlangbayan is setting up to integrate several companies that are of personal significance. The recently formed companies will be an avenue to vent his passion for music and guitars. While one may wonder at what point will a BPO and music blend together, the answer is MADLABS GROUP, INC.

“That’s the nice thing of having a holding company, it can put together companies that may or may not have

common ground except that they are part of a parent company. The way I set up the company is that it should accommodate all my interests. While my DNA is software development and project management, my heart beats for music. And that pushed me to acquire a guitar factory needing urgent assistance,” Madlangbayan said.

Freakquency Guitars is a small guitar firm MADLABS GROUP acquired not too long ago. The factory offers bespoke designs to clients not limited to the Philippines. Many of the buyers come from overseas.

“Our guitars are priced accordingly depending on the raw materials used. The kind of wood used for the guitar has the biggest weight in terms of pricing. We have guitar designs ranging from P24,000 per unit to about to about P68,000 per unit,” Madlangbayan said.

For now, the MADLABS GROUP’s guitar unit is serving pre-booked orders and it may take time to accept new orders.

While having 2 companies seem enough to tire his soul, Madlangbayan is setting up another company—the Dotted 8 Note Studio—a recording studiocum-lounge bar that will cater to musicians and the crowd within the radius of the condominium building where his residence is located.

The MADLABS CEO admitted that the area where his condominium unit is located lacks entertainment value, thus his plan to create a space where he can house his musical equipment collection and stir an honest-to-goodness musical scene. The studio will occupy the clubhouse of the building where he and his family are residing. MADLABS GROUP aims to transform the clubhouse into an iconic den for music lovers.

The 72-square meter development will house a recording studio that will be open to rehearsals, voice and music recording; a space for digital content where music videos, advertisements and similar ideas may gestate; and, a lounge bar where food and alcoholic beverages will be served while people wait for their turn to use the studio and for people who are out for entertainment.

Othel V. Campos

Digital piggy bank bridges financial goals

RBANK, Robinsons Bank digital app for mobile banking, recently introduced RKansya, a digital piggy bank that responds to the financing needs of the modern depositor.

Rkansya is revolutionizing the way customers save and achieve their financial goals – whether it’s for a new travel destination, a gadget or gaming console upgrade, or to build a rainy day fund.

Users can easily create an Rkansya on the RBank Digital app as long as they have an existing RBank savings or checking account.

Unlike your traditional piggy bank, Rkansya offers you more than just an automated way of saving funds. It also empowers Filipinos to achieve their #Lifegoals as it enables customers to create a personalized savings plan that is tailored to their unique needs and aspirations.

The app has an automated savings plan and an auto-debit feature which makes saving easier. RBank Digital will automatically fund your Rkansya using your linked savings or checking account on a preferred time.

The online piggy bank provides real-time updates on the amount saved, the timeline, and the remaining balance, giving users a sense of accomplishment

and motivation to continue saving. You can even make several Rkansya accounts and start saving up simultaneously for multiple goals.

Award-winning Filipino enterprise exports coconut products

ON THE road to health and fitness,

Andy Albao decided to manufacture a suite of natural products under the CocoWonders brand.

CocoWonders, a brand of products derived from coconut, is the flagship brand of Andy Albao Corporation.

Established in 2011, the brand has come along way to exporting coconut products to Australia, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, Poland, the Czech Republic and the European Union. About 40 percent of CocoWonder’s production is exported to the EU.

“European buyers are aware and have the purchasing power. In 2014, we began exporting to Europe as well. We penetrated more markets than others and have been awarded ‘Best SME’ by the Philippine Coconut Association (PCA) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) 2 years in a row, in 2020 and 2021,” Albao said.

Andy grows coconuts in a rented farm in Quezon Province. All coconut products are processed in a facility located in the farm. The facility is already

70 percent mechanized that makes it easier for the company to serve global demand.

The Philippines is one of the major producers of coconut sugar in the world. CocoWonders produces coconut sugar that is EU organic certified and compliant with good manufacturing practices (GMP). In fact, this is one of the first require-

ments that Andy recalls he had to meet before beginning to export to Europe.

“In 2013, I participated in Anuga Trade Fair held in Germany. Customers did not buy from us because we were not EU organic certified at that time. In 2015, we applied for organic certification. This opened the doors for us to European buyers,” Albao said. He worked with Netherlands based Control Union Certifications to obtain the required certifications.

With the help of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), CocoWonders have registered in the EU’s Registered Exporter system (REX system), a system of self-certification of origin for exporters wishing to benefit from GSP+. “Availing of the GSP+ has made me more competitive in the European market. Customers don’t need to pay tariffs once we avail of the GSP+. We don’t need to pay for Certificate of Origin every time we make a shipment. Now we just include our REX number in the commercial invoice, and we are sorted,” Albao said.

MADLABS.ph founder Vic Madlangbayan

Emerging fashion debut

designers launchinnovative collections

AFTER years of virtual galleries and digital showcases, the sorelymissed and highly-anticipated Sinulid is back on the physical stage. The runway will welcome over 50 creations of fashion innovators that explore history and tradition, heritage and culture, sensibilities, and social and environmental issues.

Sinulid is the annual blockbuster culminating fashion show which exhibits the talent, knowledge, skills, and craftsmanship of the graduating students from the Fashion Design and Merchandising (FDM) program of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde School of Environment and Design.

Themed Renascence, this year’s installment unveils its nostalgic homecoming at the Benilde Design + Arts Campus as the home of the debut collections of 11 emerging creators whose diverse artistic identities have developed during the lockdowns. Sinulid 2023 promises a retrospective of varying creative processes and design possibilities. It will feature ensembles that capture the spirit of nature, from the breathtaking charm of butterfly wings’ coloration and pattern formation to the captivating beauty of frozen methane instead of climate change.

Emotion and passion will make a mark in this series, with surrealistand macabre-inspired pieces that envelop sorrow and escapism to visual representations of drug-induced euphoria. Daring looks that explore the boundaries of physical intimacy will also be in view.

Collections that challenge the norms will be presented, including upcycled secondhand fabrics and unconventional bridal series that champion the art of body ink as a counter-movement against fast fashion.

Legacy and birthright will take centerstage through designs that aim

Upcycled fabrics are also a highlight of ‘Sinulid 2023’ as it serves as a countermovement against fast fashion

to revive the faltering capiz shell industry of Samal, Bataan, and a modern retelling will reign in the glamorized interpretation of Lenten season-inspired vestments.

It will likewise delve into Japanese flair with anime-inspired casuals for the Filipino otaku, as well as garments that depict the intense work culture of their salarymen.

To elevate the traditional show into a multi-faceted experience, Sinulid 2023 partnered with the Benilde Multimedia Arts (MMA) Program to curate a specialized augmented reality (AR) gallery. Using the Sinulid app on smartphones, viewers may scan the interactive posters provided to venture into a digital tour of the collection

ARTIST’S CORNER

ANDREA Franzeine Castellano is a student from St. Dominic College of Asia enrolled in the Bachelor of Multimedia Arts program. During her free time, she expresses her creativity through modern and traditional mediums, like watercolor, paint tools, and more.

Castellano hopes to become a skilled animator to further expand her creativity.

Besides her passion for multimedia arts, the young creative also has an affinity for macabre scenarios, among other things. She explores its color palettes and various patterns to unlock new perspectives for her craft and its audiences.

Unclear directions

Two lost souls wandering in an uncharted area are greeted by a mysterious figure showing them where to go. Do they follow that ray of hope, or stray away from the path due to the fear of the unknown?

Some of her works, “Unclear Directions” and “Mounted”, are two prime examples of Castellano’s artistry.

“I believe my interest in the genre peaked in high school. I found fascination for what others would find uncomfortable or terrifying. As a young artist, I had a knack in digital art and writing short stories. My main inspirations were different video games, songs, and movies that consist of anything psychological horror or just horror itself. Hence, it became a new means of venting for me. It was an outlet to express in a different yet exaggerated way of how I felt or was thinking at times,” she said.

‘Sinulid 2023’ will again explore history and tradition, heritage and culture, sensibilities, and social and environmental issues through innovative fashion pieces

in action.

Sinulid 2023 is in partnership with the Mark of Designers Alliance (MODA), the official organization of

Emotion and passion are two vital elements in the collection to create a feast for the eyes

Benilde FDM, the Stage Productions Operating Team (SPOT) of the Culture and Arts Unit (CAU), as well as fellow student-artists from the college’s design and arts programs.

The exhibition will be on view from Friday, March 24 to Wednesday, April 5, 2023, at the 8F of Benilde Design +

Arts Campus. For more information, visit https:// www.facebook.com/Sinulid.Benilde.

To learn more about Benilde Fashion Design and Merchandising Program, visit https://www.facebook.com/BenildeFDM or https://www.benilde.edu.ph/undergraduatefashion-design-and-merchandising/

Hong Kong is a favorite destination for tourists who want to enjoy good food, breathtaking landscapes, and new experiences FAM’s art deco-inspired indoor open-space that’s both inviting and sophisticated

Richard Juan says ‘Hello’ to new dining spots in Hong Kong

HONG KONG, February 13, 2023 — For Richard Juan, a Hong Kong trip is never complete without exploring the city’s culinary scene. From traditional Cantonese seafood to contemporary fusion dishes, there was no shortage of tasty and unique dining options for Richard to choose from during his recent Hong Kong trip. Each restaurant that he visited had its own charm. “I was constantly amazed by the variety and quality of the food. Hong Kong is really a great place to explore and discover new flavors and experiences,” he remarked.

Mounted

Butterflies are alluring creatures but like any other insect they are terrifying up close. This inspired a what-if situation where the roles are reversed; if humans are seen as beautiful, we’d be the one’s pinned in frames instead.

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

Want to join the Artists’ Corner? Email your work to patty. manilastandard@gmail.com

One of the highlights of his food adventure was dining at the Artisan Lounge. This all-day dining café, bar, and bespoke boutique was inspired by the elegant, sophisticated “manorlike” concept of K11 MUSEA, a top-tier shopping mall in the city.

“Having afternoon tea at the Artisan Lounge was 100 percent a different type of memorable experience,” Richard shared. “The atmosphere was sophisticated and elegant, with a beautiful burgundy and metallic bronze color scheme. The food was also top-notch, especially the tarts we had from the afternoon tea set.” The lounge also offers a great view of the Gold Ball, the multi-cultural exhibition space of K11 MUSEA, which added to the overall ambiance of the place.

“With the unique drinks, like the cotton candy hot chocolate that I ordered, everything about this place is amazing for photos,” he added. “I would highly recommend it to anyone

Filipino-Chinese personality Richard Juan enjoying a meal at FAM, which fuses contemporary Chinese cuisine, art, and music in one destination looking for a sophisticated, Instagrammable afternoon tea experience in Hong Kong.”

Additionally, Richard made it a point to explore the city’s modern restaurants. One of which is FAM, a dining place in Kowloon that

fuses contemporary Chinese cuisine, art, and music in one destination.

“The food was absolutely delicious, with standout dishes including the flavourful shrimp dumplings, the savory abalone, and wild mushrooms in puff pastry,” he highlighted. “The restaurant itself is chic and stylish, with an art deco-inspired indoor open space that is both inviting and sophisticated.” On top of that, Richard’s dining experience was amplified by the breathtaking view of Victoria Harbour from the restaurant.

“FAM is located in the Art Park of the West Kowloon Cultural District, which offers a stunning 270-degree view of Victoria Harbour. The outdoor grass lawn adds to the atmosphere and makes it a great place to relax and enjoy the view. I was able to soak up the atmosphere and take in the beautiful scenery while I ate,” he relayed.

The actor also dined at the all-day café bar called I-O-N in Central Market. “I like the vibe of the European-styled cafe fare with a Hong Kong twist,” Richard detailed. “The cafe and cocktail bar area is very aesthetic and is very Instagrammable.” He encourages his fellow foodies to fly to the city and navigate the urban jungle’s diverse culinary scene to search for the best food finds.

Planning for a getaway to Hong Kong? Check out the exclusive travel offers and packages here www.discoverhongkong.com/seasia/deals/ flights-and-packages-ph.html to turn your next Hong Kong holiday into a trip of a lifetime.

n By PETER ATENCIO

TWO-TIME Olympian Jasmine Alkhaldi came a day late last week for the National Swim Tryouts for the Cambodia 32nd Southeast Asian Games held at the New Clark City Aquatics Center in Capas, Tarlac.

Now working as a program associate for the Ayala Center For Excellence in Sports (ACES), the 29-year-old Alkhaldi still found the time to get her act together and groom herself to compete at the highest level.

And she would most likely find herself back to the national swimming team that’s being assembled for the Cambodia 32nd Southeast Asian Games.

The 5’8” Alkhaldi, who won a silver and a bronze medal in the Vietnam meet, showed that she can

JASMINE ALKHALDI

For this two-time Olympic swimmer, employment and elite sports can mix

still compete and mold herself into great shape.

“It’s a good way to see where I am right now. At least now we know what I need to change,” said Alkhaldi, who is supervised by his coach Archie Lim.

Alkhaldi, a member of the Ayala Harpoons club, grabbed gold medals in the women’s 50-meter butterfly on the last day, the 100-meter freestyle, and the 100-meter butterfly in the Clark meet organized by the Philippine Olympic Committee Stabilization Committee for aquatics.

‘Coach Gold’ given dual tasking at Maroons’ bench

FOR his initial success as head coach of the Philippines Fighting Maroons seniors team, Goldwin Monteverde is entrusted with another duty--molding the school juniors team into a fighting, championship unit.

In a letter to UP President Atty.

Angelo Jimenez, Coach Bo Perasol, UP Diliman’s Program Director for Basketball Perasol endorsed the integration of the UP Diliman Basketball program from high school to college and the appointment of Monteverde as concurrent coach of both the seniors and juniors’ program.

In his first year as head coach, Monteverde steered the Fighting Maroons to their first UAAP seniors’ basketball title in 36 years. Last season, he led the Fighting Maroons to a second straight finals appearance. Monteverde was a champion high school basketball coach when he steered the NU Bullpups to back-to-

back UAAP crowns and numerous championships in the NBTC National Finals, PSSBC, MMBL, and Palarong Pambansa, also led NS-NU to gold in 2018 and 2019 ASEAN School Games.

Monteverde, or “Coach Gold”, is also known for producing blue-chip recruits like Carl Tamayo, Kevin Quiambao, Harold Alarcon, and Terrence Fortea, among others.

“To ensure the sustainability of the program, especially now that UP’s aspirations are high, is to have an integrated and well-coordinated basketball program from high school to college,” Perasol said in his letter.

“We want to recruit players from around the country that will excel not only in basketball but will also survive the rigors of UPIS academic demand.

Those young players, with the proper training program and exposure, will make sure our program in the

UPMBT continues,” he added.

Perasol also assured the newly installed UP President that the UP MBT Management Team will guarantee ample support to its high school squad to make it successful like its seniors’ counterpart, from recruitment and screening, academic support and tutorials, strength and conditioning, skills training, team building, basketball data analytics, improvement of training facilities, among others.

“We hope to replicate our experience in the seniors’ program and elevate the juniors’ program to become more competitive and hopefully to be back in the final four and aim for the championship,” Perasol said.

Perasol added that even the current Juniors’ coach, Paolo Mendoza, on his consultation meeting last year also “yearns for such change and supports the integration and the direction of UP’s basketball program in Diliman.”

Ateneo student is PH’s top junior trap shooter

ANTONIO Joseph Javines of Ateneo de Manila is slowly but surely making a name for himself in Shooting’s trap and skeet clay category.

The 13-year-old Javines captured the National Juniors Trap and Skeet title after finishing fifth overall in the recently-concluded National Open Championship Trap/Skeet competition held at the PSC-PNSA Clay Target Range in Muntinlupa City. Javines, also known as AJ in the shooting community, scored 14-1819-18-15 for a total of 84 shots out of 125 targets.

Javines finished fifth behind Philippine National Shooting member Hagen Alexander Topacio, Eric Ang,

Itos Carag and Jethro Dionisio in trap men’s category.

Topacio had 23-22-23-24-23 for total of 115, followed by Ang with 2321-22-21-19 for 106 and Carag with 21-21-22-19-20 for 103.

In finishing fifth, Javines also clinched the National Junior plum and a spot in Philippine National Training Team.

“Ever since I took up the sport, it is really my dream to become a national player,” said Javines, who even beat actor-sportsman Richard Gomez.

Gomez finished ninth overall.

Javines attributed his success to his long and intense training and the support of his proud parents, Engi-

neer Teddy and Michelle Javines. Valerie Levanza and Joelle Panganiban finished 1-2 in the Ladies’ Trap category. Levanza shone with 15-14-16-1317 for 75 points while Panganiban struck with 13-13-16-17-15 for 74.

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Richard Bachmann and Philippine National Shooting Association (PNSA) president Rep. Faustino Michael Dy III awarded the medals to the winners.

“He is now the future of Philippine shooting. He is one of a kind at his age and dedication. We have another shooting champion in the making,” said Bachmann after watching

Javines’ performance.

“It’s very impressive to see a 13-year-old making his presence felt in this very demanding sport of Olympic trap,” said national team coach Fernando Mercado, who is personally training Javines since last year. Mercado noted that Javines is the youngest player who finished in the Top 10, which also included seasoned campaigners JM Ancheta, Charles Nalupta, Edsel Gino, Gomez, and Leonardo Gino.

Mercado has been training AJ with a portable clay thrower at a makeshift range in San Fernando Pampanga.

UAAP volleyball: Tams brush off Falcons

FAR Eastern University fended off Adamson University’s challenge to hammer out a 31-33, 25-17, 25-17, 25-23 victory and rediscover its winning ways in the UAAP Season 85 Men’s Volleyball tournament, Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. Trailing 15-18 in the fourth set, Mark Calado and Martin Bugaoan leveled the frame at 18-all.

Despite the fightback from the Soaring Falcons with captain Jude Aguilar, Bugaoan eventually ended the battle with a smart push to the empty Adamson backrow.

“I think this is a good response. We struggled pero good response, kasi mahirap sa isang bagong team yung pagtayo pagkatapos ng pagkadapa,” coach Rei Diaz said of FEU’s bounceback win after losing a five-setter to University of Santo Tomas Wednesday.

“Step by step, at least yung isang step nagawa na namin,” he added.

Setter Benny Martinez was steady for FEU after producing 25 excellent sets, leading to a huge 72-41 advantage on attacks. Calado once more paced the scoring for the Tamaraws with

The two-time Olympic veteran was close to the qualifying time-A of all her three events.

“She is in the middle of her hard training. Since she is already a medalist in the last SEA Games, She is already qualified for Cambodia. When this competition came, we said we are going to join even if we know that we are not yet in peak condition,” said Lim.

Lim said Alkhaldi is not yet at her peak, and being at the tryouts gave them a chance to find out how she can plan her swims.

A total of 188 swimmers from 102 clubs participated in the Clark where 19 swimmers hit the qualifying marks, including Jarrod Hatch and Xiandi Chua who now have a big chance to make it outright to the national pool.

Alkhaldi, who saw action in the London and Rio Olympics, is making the transition from being a full-time worker with her new job at Ayala Corporations’ pilot program Atletang Ayala and an elite national athlete.

The Ayala program aims to help the next generation of Filipino athletes achieve their full potential. For now, retiring from the sport is still far from Alkhaldi’s mind, and tweaking her performance for the coming SEA Games is among her immediate priorities.

PSA Awards: Hidilyn bestowed Grit and Glory title

OLYMPIC gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz is the recipient of a separate special award in the San Miguel Corporation-Philippine Sportswriters Association (SMC-PSA) Annual Awards Night on Monday at the grand ballroom of the Diamond Hotel.

Apart from her Athlete of the Year trophy, the 32-year-old Filipina weightlifter will be recognized with the Champion of Grit and Glory award courtesy of Milo.

The honor is in recognition of Diaz’s success and role in honing future champions through her weightlifting academy.

MILO will award Diaz with a trophy and a framed printed collage of her 55kg record during the gala night organized by the country’s oldest media organization headed by Rey Lachica, sports editor of Tempo, and presented by the Philippine Sports Commission and Cignal TV, and with the Philippine Olympic Committee, Mayor Abraham ‘Bambol’ Tolentino, MILO, Smart, MVP Sports Foundation, Rain or Shine, 1Pacman Rep. Mikee Romero, Philippine Basketball Association, OKBet, ICTSI, and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation as major backers.

“The award also shows a representation of her shared vision with MILO in instilling the value of ‘pagpupursigi’ among young athletes and soon-to-be future champions,” read part of the award’s description.

At the same time, there will also be the traditional MILO Junior Athletes of the Year recognition to be handed out during the formal ceremony to be hosted by Sev Sarmenta and Rizza Diaz.

24 points, 20 coming from attacks to go along with three blocks and one service ace. The former FEU-Diliman standout also added 10 digs and 17 excellent receptions.

Bugaoan added 18 markers on 16 spikes and two blocks.

The Tamaraws, though, needed to shake off another sluggish start to the match.

Adamson had to crawl its way into its first set win of the season, coming back from 15-19 down to take the extended first set at 33-31 with Francis Casas finally ending the frame with a down-the-line kill after 42 minutes.

Jasmine Alkhaldi (left), two-time Olympian and medalist of two previous Southeast Asian Games, and Jarrod Hatch are vying again for national team spots in the coming Cambodia SEA Games.

Coach Goldwin Monteverde will now handle both the juniors and seniors basketball squads of the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons.

The Far Eastern University Tamaraws’ wall-like defense proved to be the biggest challenge for Adamson.

Olympic weightlifting gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz continues to inspire as she rakes in another trophy from the Philippine Sportswriters Association.

YOUNG director Gino Santos had to open an audition for the cast of Teen Clash, an adaptation of Ilyn Anne Danganan’s hit Wattpad story of the same title.

Santos believes that the series will make viewers’ hearts skip a beat with its coming-of-age story about a young eclectic group’s passion for music and their journey to find their voices in a chaotic world.

“They look like a real band, whose members are friends with each other. And we had to know if they have musical abilities before we could assign them a role to play in the series,” Santos explained.

Chosen to play the roles were Jayda Avanzado, Aljon Mendoza,

GINO SANTOS

adapts e-novel into a coming-of-age series

and Markus Paterson – up-and-coming young stars who will rock viewers’ worlds in music, romance, self-discovery, and friendships in this iWantTFC original series that streams for free beginning March 17.

In Teen Clash, Jayda is Zoe, an aspiring musician who is bent on joining her school’s music jam in order to redeem herself after an unfortunate incident in the past caused her grave embarrassment. In her journey, she encounters the charming songwriter Ice, played by Aljon, Zoe’s potential lover who will later attempt to help her overcome her struggles as a musician.

Markus, on the other hand, plays Jude, a dashing rockstar and Zoe’s former singing partner who is now a famous and established artist.

Aside from Ice and Jude, Zoe will also encounter a new batch of college mates who are also aspiring to fulfill their dreams of making it big in the music industry. She meets her new friendsturned-bandmates Yannie (Bianca de Vera), a talented gal who can’t seem to move on from her on-and-off relationship with Xander (Zach Castañeda); Ayumi (Gail Banawis), the smart friend who has a mini rivalry for top honors with Ken (Ralph Malibunas); her cool friend Sab (Fana) who will figure in an unexpected love triangle; and Mandy (Andrea Abaya), the campus darling who makes both guys and girls swoon over her.

Meanwhile, Ice has his own clique with Xander, the certified hunk playboy; Ken, the geekishly cute drummer; Josh (Kobie Brown), the alpha wannabe that has a crush on Mandy; and Lloyd (Luke Alford), Ice’s best friend and colleague.

Their lives will turn complicated as they deal with clashing ideals, misfit relationships, unexpected romance, and a whole lot of punk-loving music that could change their lives.

Teen Clash is produced by iWantTFC and Black Sheep. It streams for free in the Philippines on the iWantTFC app (iOs and Android) and website (iwanttfc.com).

Five new songs that journey through different phases of love

LOVE is a complex thing that can take people on different journeys, be it in the early stages of falling in love, in the bewildering “situationship” era, or in the healthy relationship stage.

Go through different phases of love with these fresh new tracks from ABS-CBN Music artists Bryan Chong, Drei Sugay, Sam Hashimoto, JMKO, and gabby parafina:

Unrequited love in “Mag-iisa” by Bryan Chong

Alessandra De Rossi, Empoy Marquez reunite in new Prime movie

PRIME Video has released the teaser key art for the new Amazon Original Movie Walang KaParis, a romantic drama that reunites the breakout tandem of Alessandra De Rossi and Empoy Marquez, popularly known as Alempoy.

Walang KaParis is helmed by Sigrid Andrea Bernardo, the director of Kita Kita (I See You), which catapulted the pair to fame in 2017.

Viewers will be able to stream the film exclusively on Prime Video starting March 23 in 240 countries and territories worldwide, alongside the tandem’s previous hit film.

Walang KaParis revolves around Jojo (Empoy Marquez), a Filipino artist in Paris who has had many lovers, but constantly finds himself desperate to fill the chasm in his life occupied by the mysterious muse of his paintings. For years, his heart is held captive by a woman with no name and no history. Like a compass, he looks for her in every girl he meets, hoping she will be “the one.” One day, a woman named Marie (Alessandra De Rossi) walks up to him and claims to be the subject of his paintings.

Produced by Spring Films and Viva Films, Walang KaParis—which literally means “no match” in Tagalog—is a play on the story’s setting, one of the most romantic places in the world, Paris. Singer KZ Tandingan returns to record the original soundtrack for the new Alempoy movie.

“We’re always on the lookout for great stories that are uniquely local and highly enjoyable, and we’re excited to work with more Filipino talents to bring diverse stories to Prime Video members in the Philippines and across the globe,” said David Simonsen, director of Prime Video, Southeast Asia.

Walang KaParis joins the hundreds of other Filipino shows and films available on the Prime Video catalog, such as 10 Little Mistresses Drag Den with Manila Luzon, and One Good Day. Korean titles such as Island and Jinny’s Kitchen, anime hits such as Chainsaw Man, on top of award-winning and critically acclaimed Amazon Originals like The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, The Boys, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, and Emmy and Golden Globe winners Fleabag and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

Former Idol Philippines season 2 finalist Bryan Chong talks about the pain of one-sided love in his single “Mag-iisa.” The track, produced by Star Pop label head Rox Santos, serves as Bryan’s first single as a recording artist. Confused and helpless in “Ganun Talaga” by Drei Sugay Drei’s debut single “Ganun Talaga” is a chill and carefree song that details the confusion that comes with the unpredictability of life and love. After his Idol PH journey, Drei is more than ready to break into the music scene with his self-penned single released under Star Pop.

Yearning for connection in “Before The Night Disappears” by Sam Hashimoto

In the soul/R&B ballad single, Sam admits that

his heart is not yet ready for love but is often looking for a connection that would make him feel alive.

“Before The Night Disappears” is his second single since he

Drei’s ‘Ganun Talaga’ details the confusion that comes with the unpredictability of life and love

‘Before The Night Disappears’ is Sam Hashimoto’s admission that his heart is not yet ready for love

debuted in 2021 with “You.”

Goodbye message in “Huling Harana” by JMKO

JMKO sends his goodbye note to a former love in his new single “Huling Harana.” The alternative track released under Star Music was written a few years ago for his ex and was shelved for a long time. With its remastered version, “Huling Harana” serves a new flavor that

IN Columbia Pictures’ 65, a futuristic action-thriller with monstrous creatures, Oscar-nominee Adam Driver plays Mills, an interstellar pilot transporting a large group of passengers through space, when an accident kills all of his passengers but one—a young girl named Koa.

What Mills and Koa don’t know is that the planet they landed on is our own Earth—65 million years ago. As they begin their epic journey toward their only means of escape, they are hunted by vicious packs of dinosaurs that stalk them across a dangerous landscape.

For Adam Driver, the chance to play a character whose physical battle to survive mirrors his emotional battle was impossible to resist.

“Every scale of filmmaking interests me and no filmmaking experience is alike. This movie, 65, particularly seemed like a unique, big swing, because it was dinosaurs, so the scale was big, but it had room for thoughtful characters and big overall themes, while being extremely entertaining. When families go as a

Award-winning American actor Adam Driver in '65'

evokes pain and letting go. Patience and devotion in “no rush” by gabby parafina gabby parafina pays tribute to the 90s R&B era with the dreamy single “no rush” that will be released under Tarsier Records on March 10 (Friday). The self-composed song serves as a reminder that love will grow and flourish in time. His first album “THERAPY” was released in 2022, which earned him different Spotify features such as R&B Weekly and Fresh Finds R&B. Listen to these journeys of love by streaming them on ABS-CBN Music YouTube channel, Tarsier Records YouTube channel, and various digital music platforms.

gabby parafina’s dreamy single ‘no rush’ pays homage to 90s R&B

‘Huling Harana’ serves JMKO’s farewell to his former flame

Adam Driver takes vicious dinosaurs head-on in original thriller ‘65’

role in Noah Baumbach’s Marriage Story, for which he received Academy Award, BAFTA, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild nominations in the category of Best Actor, and also the Best Actor Gotham Award. Additional accolades include his performance in Spike Lee’s BlacKkKlansman, in which he co-starred alongside John David Washington, and garnered Academy Award, BAFTA, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild nominations in the category of Best Supporting Actor. His other film credits include Rian Johnson’s Star Wars: The Last Jed i; J.J. Abrams’ Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker and Star Wars: The Force Awakens ; Shawn Levy’s This Is Where I Leave You Noah Baumbach’s The Meyerowitz Stories ; Steven Spielberg’s Lincoln ; and Clint Eastwood’s J. Edgar.

In cinemas across the Philippines starting March 8, 65 is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

A scene from the upcoming iWanTFC series 'Teen Clash'

'Teen Clash' sees the fresh tandem of Aljon Mendoza (left) and Jayda Avanzado

Jayda Avanzado plays Zoe, an aspiring musician who wants to join her school’s music jam

Markus Paterson plays Jude, a dashing rockstar and Zoe’s former singing partner who became a famous and established artist

Aljon Mendoza is Ice, a charming musician who will help Zoe overcome her struggles as a musician

The breakout tandem of Alessandra De Rossi (left) and Empoy Marquez

Bryan Chong talks about the pain of one-sided love in ‘Mag-iisa’

Socks and Twitch, the author’s cats, are mother and daughter and love to cuddle together.

By Mariana Burgos

CATS are cute and cuddly, but they can also be difficult to care for, especially if they are kept indoors most of the time. Felines are natural hunters who become bored easily, so they are naturally inquisitive. This can lead to issues such as when they decide to scale your curtains in order to get a better view of your living room. Take it from me: I have had enough broken vases and glasses, chewed boxes, and clawed Styrofoam cooler boxes to know what I am talking about.

Many factors must be considered by owners when deciding whether to provide their cats with an indoor-only or indoor-outdoor lifestyle. These include safety, mental and physical health, parasite or disease exposure, and wildlife depredation.

When you understand a cat's basic needs, you can raise a healthy pet and live in harmony with them. Some of your cat's most basic needs will be security, comfort, and lots of love. But he will have some material requirements as well.

Clare McHugh gives us tips in her article "10 ways to Keep Your Cat Healthy".

1. Brushing your cat on a daily basis is basic care.

Cats spend so much time grooming themselves that some owners may be unaware that brushing can help their pet by removing loose hair. McHugh tells us that brushing or combing your cat on a daily basis will help reduce the formation of hairballs in the digestive tract.

2. It's a ‘no-no’ to eat too much dry food!

Cats, unlike dogs, cannot be vegetarians for long periods of time. McHugh cites the statement of Los Angeles veterinarian Jeff Werber (who also owns eight cats) who says cats rely on meat as the foundation of their diets, and the main meal of the day should always be meat. Werber claims that they have seen cats develop Type 2 diabetes and become obese as a result of eating too much dry food.

3. Take notice of your pet's thirst.

According to McHugh, felines get thirstier than dogs. They must get the majority of their water from food. Something a cat might eat in the wild, such as a mouse, is about 70 per cent (%) water, whereas canned food is 78 per cent (%) water. She says dry food contains only 5 per cent (%) to 10 per cent (%) water. McHugh tells us to give our cat constant access to fresh water, and we will certainly notice that cats drink more when they eat more dry food. Elderly and nursing cats, she says, are more vulnerable to dehydration than others, so keep an eye out for symptoms like sunken eyes, lethargy, and panting.

4. Provide a sufficient number of litter boxes.

According to Werber, it is ideal to have one litter box for each kitty, plus an extra. Cats dislike crowded toilets. When performing these functions, the animal is in a vulnerable position. They want to be able to see around them. McHugh says that Werber tells us, your pet may be reluctant to use a box with a cover for the same reason.

5. Don't assume you understand a cat pees outside the box.

Nothing irritates a cat owner more than when kitty refuses to use the litter box and instead pees elsewhere in the house. There could be several reasons, according to Werber. However, he advises excluding the most obvious possibility first: a possible health or medical reason. Your cat could be suffering from a urinary infection. So have your cat checked out by a veterinarian. Another reason is (which is the most often one), she or he might be simply marking his/her territory.

Healthy, Happy Cat

6. Train your cat to scratch in the appropriate location. Teach your cat to use a scratching post instead of damaging your furniture. McHugh cites Werber’s statement that many owners make the mistake of not realizing they need to give the scratching post appeal. Werber recommends placing it in the center of the room to begin. The vet recommends that you sprinkle catnip on the post when you first bring it home. After you have gotten your pet used to it, you can gradually move it to a less busy location and skip the catnip.

7. Your cat should be sterilized (spayed or neutered). Spaying and neutering can help keep your cat safe because unfixed male cats fight, putting themselves at risk of disease transmission through bites and scratches. Female cats are not much better off if they are not fixed. Female cats can become pregnant as young as four months old, and mating and giving birth to multiple litters of kittens can be extremely stressful for them—not to mention the stress owners experience when their cats go into heat, says Werber.

8. Keep all safe when travelling with your pet.

Even if your cat appears to be more comfortable unrestrained, have her/ him buckled up in a car. The driver may get distracted with the cat if it was not restrained and in the case of an accident, a cat can become a dangerous projectile. McHugh quotes Werber as saying, "Never, ever leave your cat alone in a parked car." Even in cooler weather, and even with the windows slightly opened, your pet may quickly feel uncomfortable being alone in a car, and a cat can die in a warm car in minutes.

9. Choose a cat-friendly veterinarian.

According to McHugh, it is best if the vet clinic has separate waiting areas for cats and dogs. Not all cats are comfortable waiting in an area where dogs are present, and vice versa.

10. Allow them to flaunt their affection!

Cats have their own distinct ways of expressing affection for their humans. Werber tells us to 'gracefully accept' whatever your cat brings home to you. Even if it is a little gross! Your pet will also express his or her affection for you by head bumping, purring, or kneading you with his or her paws.

These are simply the fundamentals. It is a full-time job to keep our feline friends healthy, safe, and happy! But we know it's worth every effort to repay the love our cats show us on a daily basis. Your cat will reward you with companionship and joy for the care you provide.

About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a freelance artist. She is a solo parent for 16 years now because she is wife to a desaparecido. She and her daughter are animal lovers and are active in advocating not only human rights but the rights of animals as well.

WE HAVE been encountering posts on dogs, cats, and other animals on Facebook that are eye-openers, or inspiring, or enlightening, or educational, or can make one feel good during a stressful day, or make one encouraged to help the poor souls among us. Sunday Pets would like to share these notable posts of netizens through this space called Pawsbook.

From Everything Dogs:

“I can't take him to the beach for a walk because it annoys you and disturbs the vacation... I have no right to rent a house if I have a dog, nor can I take him on public transportation.

However, I can take it to the rubble to find you after an earthquake, in the woods after you got lost in the mountains and had no map or gps; under the snow because you took a detour forbidden off the track; in the water because despite the red flag you have entered the sea, and your life is in danger! And finally ...”

He is just a dog, but he or she will find you. And it will save you!!!

Dedicated to all who DO NOT love dogs!

️Nicolas Alarcon

From Winnie Bisnar:

“For you my dear cat (Nino)

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

I’ll bet you’re peacefully lying upon an angel’s lap. Purring there, without a care having a heavenly nap. I’ll miss you for a little while, but our friendship will not end. Time will pass, and then at last you’ll be on my lap again.

Bye for now

— with Michael Bisnar.”

From Andy's Paw Prints:

“If I passed before my dog(s), I would ask for permission to return just to say goodbye; to let my dog(s) know that God called me, and that I didn't abandon them.

I would tell them I want them to take care of themself (and each other), and that in the meantime, I'll be waiting for them. I would give them one last kiss, one last hug, and tell them that they are the best things that have ever happened to me. That I have loved each with all my heart & I've loved them the most. If I pass first, give me permission to tell them that. And especially to tell them that when we finally meet again, it will be forever.

- Anonymous”

From Love Animal:

"When I adopted my dog she was already pregnant. I knew what trouble I was getting into but I wanted her to give birth without fear, feel good and be a happy mom since life brought her this way. She gave birth to 3 wonderful puppies that due to space we kept all 3 !!!One we were told is a blue german shepherd.I never cared because he was born different nor did we tell him apart from the others.On walks people are more afraid of him than the others but I know people always judge big dogs by looks.

Let's start seeing them as characters and personalities and not breeds and sizes!

They're family not cars! Our kids are all beautiful inside and out." Compiled by DC

Gwaps, a cat of the author's sister, likes to stay on the rattan sofa.

Steven, one of the author's kittens, is a very affectionate kitty. Every night, he would snuggle up in the author's bed and curl up beside her under the blanket.