Manila Standard - 2023 March 10 - Friday

DOJ probe covers Rep. Teves

Suspect says 'Cong Teves' ordered hit on Degamo, conspiracy eyed

By Rey E. Requejo, Maricel V. Cruz, Macon Ramos-Araneta, and Charles Dantes

THREE or four people may have conspired to have Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo assassinated, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said Thursday.

When asked previously to confirm whether Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo “Arni” Teves Jr. is the subject of an official investigation, Remulla said: "Well, we're investigating everybody who may have something to do with what has been happening in Negros Oriental. Bar none. We are not exempting anybody."

Television reports said two of the suspects named a certain “Congressman Teves” as the mastermind in the killing of Degamo.

In an ABS-CBN TV Patrol report last night, one of the suspects in police custody, Joric Labrador, said in an ambush interview: “Si Congressman Teves pagkaalam ko (It was Congressman Teves, as far as I know).”

The suspect added that he learned of his boss’ identity – although not his first

Oil spill impact ‘for decades’; US, S. Korea boost aid

By Rey E. Requejo and Macon Ramos-Araneta

THE damage from the oil spill of a sunken tanker in Oriental Mindoro is "extensive" and will be felt for decades,

By Julito G. Rada and Vince Lopez

THE National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has approved 194 infrastructure flagship projects worth P9 trillion, Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said Thursday.

In a briefing in Malacanang, Balisacan said most of these projects are in physical connectivity and water resources, including irrigation, water supply, and flood management. The list also includes projects in digital connectivity, health, power and energy, agriculture and other infrastructure

Some of the new projects on the list are the Panay Railway Project, Mindanao Railway Project III, North Long Haul Railway, San Mateo Railway, UP-PGH Diliman Project, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Rehabilitation Project, the Ilocos Sur Transbasin Project, and the Metro Cebu Expressway. Balisacan said the projects are aligned with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s 8-Point Socioeconomic Agenda and the Philippine Development plan for 2023-2028.

the environmental group Oceana Philippines warned Thursday. This developed as the United States and South Korea offered to send more aid and Japan sent a team of oil removal and control experts that would help in the ongoing cleanup that President Ferdinand

Marcos Jr. said would take the government about four months to clean up.

That timetable, however, is “unrealistic” and about two months short at least, said lawyer Rose-Liza Eisma-Osorio, legal and policy director of Oceana Philippines.

"I think the realistic (timetable) would

Solons roll out eCongress for integrated legislation

By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Maricel V. Cruz

LEADERS of the Senate and the House of Representatives on Thurs-

day launched the eCongress—a digital platform that will strengthen and streamline the coordination and partnership between the chambers of Congress—at the National Museum.

Through a concurrent resolution, both chambers established the eCongress, describing it as an "integrated and secure digital legislative management system."

4 kids of OFW stabbed to death, live-in partner commits suicide

By Charles Dantes

FOUR siblings were found dead inside their home in Trece Martires, Cavite on Thursday after the live-in partner of their mother allegedly lost his cool and stabbed them all before ending his own life.

The police identified the victims as Mari, 14 years old; Bianca, 10: Joy, 8; and Conrad 6.

The children were living together with the suspect identified as Felimon Escalona, 38, a tricycle driver who was the kids’ guardian while their mother works as an overseas Filipino Worker in Saudi Arabia.

Based on the initial report gathered

be 6 months to a year," Osorio told ANC's "Headstart," adding that mangroves, seagrasses, and corals in the area “will take years to recover” from the tragedy.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is planning

By Julito G. Rada and Macon Ramos-Araneta

FITCH Solutions Country Risk and Industry Research, a unit of Fitch Group, is expecting long-term economic growth for the Philippines and an influx of foreign direct investments once the 1987 Constitution is amended.

The House of Representatives has already approved on final reading the creation of a body to propose amendments to the 1987 Constitution and lawmakers’ most immediate focus is to ease restrictions on foreign direct investment.

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Cessna plane with six people on board that went missing in Isabela province two months ago has been found with no survivors, the Isabela Incident Management Team said Thursday. Lawyer Constante Foronda, head of the management team, said the team was able to confirm this after the wreckage of the plane was found yesterday following weeks of search operations.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines confirmed this, saying through spokesperson Eric Apolonio:

Unemployment up to 4.8 percent

By Julito G. Rada and Macon Ramos-Araneta

THE country’s unemployment rate increased to a four-month high of 4.8 percent in January 2023 from 4.3 percent a month ago, due mainly to slower economic activities usually observed after the Christmas season.

But national statistician and civil registrar general Dennis Mapa said in an online briefing that the January rate was significantly slower compared to the 6.4 percent unemployment rate posted in January 2022.

“Previously, we talked about the decline in jobless rate in the last quarter of 2022

DOJ...

From A1 name – by asking his colleagues who owned the safehouse and the land where they were stationed.

Labrador also denied facing the alleged boss “Teves” personally in the ABS-CBN report.

In the GMA News report, Labrador added, "Ang alam kong nag-recruit sa amin ay si Marvin," and when asked who gave the orders to Marvin, he said, "Si cong daw sir... Teves sir."

The GMA report added that suspects Labrador and Benjie Rodriguez were initially offered to work as VIP security, but were later assigned to join the group tasked to kill Degamo. Both suspects said they were told the governor is a drug lord.

Rodriguez claimed he was also a victim, saying when he reported for duty three days before the massacre, he said “nagbago trato sa amin” (their treatment of us changed).

“That is a conspiracy, but there is a mastermind. There may be three or four people who made the plan and hired others,” Remulla said in a chance interview.

“That is what we are studying right now. And that will be included in the statements of the people,” he added.

The Justice Secretary said the conspirators may not necessarily be “big names.”

“We are investigating anybody with a possible culpability. We would not exempt anybody,” he said.

Degamo and five others were shot dead in broad daylight while he was distributing aid to his constituents at his residence in Pamplona, Negros Oriental on March

Oil...

From A1 to seek the help of the participants in the 2023 Balikatan military exercises for the cleanup drives in areas affected by the oil spill, the Presidential Communications Office said.

Environment Secretary Antonia Loyzaga, in a meeting with President Marcos on Wednesday, said her agency would work with the US Embassy "to explore the possibility of deploying the participants of the joint military drills," as part of efforts for cleanup and reduction of the impact of the oil spill incident.

Loyzaga added that the DENR has coordinated with the provincial local government units, the sunken vessel’s owner, and the Department of Social

Int’l...

From A1

A total of 301 out of 314 lawmakers voted in favor for the charter change but the Senate has not yet acted on the initiative.

“While it is still early days in the process, any pro-business changes to the Philippine’s business environment would pose upside risks to our long-term growth forecast for the Philippines and in particular to investment,” Fitch Solutions said in a report Thursday.

It said the potential removal of restrictions on FDI could see overall investment pick up over the coming years.

“Historically, fixed capital formation accounted for an average of about 23 percent of GDP [2005-2022], and changes to legislation could see this ratio rise by several percentage points over the longer term,” Fitch Solutions said.

Fitch Solutions said the investment environment in the Philippines for foreigners has historically been challenging due to restrictive rules.

It cited as an example the 60-40 equity rule which states that only 40 percent of the business can be owned by a foreign investor.

These challenges are further reflected

NEDA...

From A1

“The new... [projects] are seen to address the binding constraints to business investment and expansion that will create more, high-quality, and resilient jobs that will allow us to meet our povertyreduction goals for the medium term,” Balisacan said.

To hasten the rollout of these projects, the Marcos administration is strongly promoting the use of public-private

due to more economic activities [leading to the Christmas season]. Likewise, we expected that there would be an increase in the unemployment rate in the first quarter of 2023 due to seasonality,” Mapa said.

Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva exuded optimism that the measures passed and deliberated

4. Several others were critically wounded in the attack, and the following day the death toll had climbed to nine.

But Remulla said he had no information about the suspects’ revelations on TV.

“I don’t know about that yet. I haven’t been informed. I need to read the statements because that is what we will use in filing the charges,” he said.

Remulla also assured the public that the government would offer protection to witness of the killing as well as Degamo’s family.

In a separate interview with radio dzRH on Thursday, Remulla said initial investigations suggested that the 56-yearold Degamo survived the initial volley from the gunmen inside his residential compound.

Injured and on the ground, Degamo sought help by radio at a frequency being monitored by the attackers’ group, which then went back to shoot him again. He died in hospital.

A document from the Office of House Secretary General Reginald Velasco showed that Teves was given permission to go to the US for a personal trip from Feb. 28 to March 9.

But the document did not state the reason for Teves’ personal trip.

The congressman said in a video message released by his office earlier this week said he went abroad for stem cell treatment.

“Congressman Teves must return today from the US since he was not given an extension by the House of Representatives,” Remulla said.

He said they have yet to see if Teves “will really face the allegations that he was involved in the gruesome incidents in Negros.”

Welfare and Development for potential additional sources of funds for the cashfor-work program that will be given to affected residents.

Thousands of workers displaced by the oil spill will be giventemporary jobs under the emergency employment program of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), with over P100 million earmarked for the cash-for-work tack.

"Around 10,000 individuals will be expected as beneficiaries," Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said in a phone interview on Thursday with the Philippine News Agency, adding DOLE expected to come up with the final list of beneficiaries soon.

Laguesma said ambulant and market stall fish vendors and employees of beach resorts will also be given assistance.

in the Organization forEconomic Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) foreign direct investment regulatory restrictiveness index which showed Philippines being ranked as the third-most restrictive out of the 84 countries in 2020.

Since the previous administration under President Duterte, the country has introduced an array of economic reforms to encourage FDI, which rose to about an estimated 3.0 percent of GDP in 2021.

The Marcos administration has also been proactive in wooing investments to the country and this, alongside the creation of a sovereign wealth fund, will also help to boost domestic investment, Fitch said.

“We expect the administration to continue to enact pro-investment reforms over the coming quarters, especially as the President has reaffirmed his ambitious plans to make the Philippines a prime destination for foreign investors,” Fitch Solutions said.

At a hearing of the Senate committee on constitutional amendments and revision of codes held in Baguio City, Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez said government expenses could be kept down if a constitutional convention to amend the Constitution is held at the same time as the barangay and the 2025 midterm elections. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

partnerships or PPPs, one of the strategies identified in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. “Forty-five of these infrastructure flagship projects are seen to be financed through partnerships with the private sector. The government shall harness the financial and technical resources of the private sector, which allows the public sector to allocate its funds for greater investments in human capital development, especially to address the scarring in health and education due to the pandemic and provide targeted

by the Senate will resolve the spike in unemployment rate last January.

Villanueva said he is saddened by the rise in the number of jobless Filipinos in the latest data issued January this year.

Among the measures he hopes would address unemployment is the Senate approval of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) treaty bill.

If enacted into law, RCEP is expected to generate a total of 1.4 million jobs up to 2031.

Mapa said the construction sector posted the biggest decline in employment, followed by aquaculture, agriculture and mining and quarrying.

“But indicators show that the

Teves has denied involvement in the assassination.

In a statement, Ferdinand Topacio, Teves’ lead counsel, called on the public to "observe sobriety" in their pronouncements regarding the allegations against the lawmaker.

“The killing has already been denounced strongly by Representative Teves, who has denied involvement therein. It will not serve the ends of justice [in any way] by publicly obfuscating the issues prematurely before a thorough investigation in accordance with procedures provided for by law," Topacio said.

“We shall face any and all accusations consistent with the courses outlined in the legal system, confident that, in the end, our client will be exonerated,” he added. Also on Thursday, Vice President Sara Duterte called on law enforcement authorities to put an end to the series of deadly attacks against elected local government officials.

“Let me take this opportunity to raise the urgent need for our law enforcement authorities to solve, to address, to put an end to the alarming string of violence perpetrated against elected officials,” she said during the second day of the 2023 National Election Summit.

In the last four weeks, at least four other local officials had been injured or killed in attacks across the country.

“This spate of violence leaves not only a trail of death but alsoestablishes a chilling climate of fear among the people. Worse, given the experiences of people elected to office, these acts of violence could potentially spawn more bloodbaths if perpetrators and those who masterminded them are not brought to justice,” Duterte said.

The humanitarian and social action arm of the Catholic Bishops'Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) will also send aid to residents affected by the oil spill in Oriental Mindoro.

Calapan, Oriental Mindoro’s Diocesan Social Action Center (DSAC) director Fr. Edwin Gariguez said the NASSA/Caritas Philippines would extend assistance to 250 families. The Lipa Archdiocesan Social Action Commission (LASAC) and the Center for Energy, Ecology and Development (CEED) will also provide food items and emergency assistance.

Meanwhile, the oil slick has reached as far south as Cuyo Island in Palawan province, a TV Patrol report said last night, apart from affecting beaches in Mindoro and Antique, and threatening to reach tourist gem Boracay Island.

Solons...

From A1

"If the pandemic taught us anything, it is that we can and must take advantage of digital technologies to make our respective legislative proceedings much easier and much more efficient," said Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri.

"We had to transform ourselves. We cannot be a Congress that is trapped in amber, archaic, and irrelevant. We have to be dynamic, forward-looking, and forward-moving. That is the only way we can be genuinely responsive to our people's needs," Zubiri added.

The leaders of both chambers signed the memorandum of agreement for the management of the eCongress website.

The integrated digital legislative management system Congress is establishing will encourage citizen participation in lawmaking, Speaker Martin G. Romualdez said.

Thus said the Speaker in his message delivered by former President-turned Senior Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo of Pampanga.

The message was read during the launch of the digital platform attended by

assistance that protects vulnerable sectors from economic shocks,” Balisacan said.

The list of projects will be posted on the NEDA website and social media accounts. Meanwhile, NEDA is expected to issue revised joint venture guidelines that were approved by its board.

The amendments aim to enhance competition for projects under joint ventures, ensure better performance of privatesector participants, and improve checks and balances to ensure that the project is technically and financially sound.

unemployment rate has been returning to the prepandemic level… it actually started since the second half of 2022…,” Mapa said. In 2019 before the onslaught of the pandemic, the unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent and significantly increased to 10.3 percent in 2020. But in July 2022, the unemployment rate stood at 5.2 percent, 5.3 percent in August 2022, 5 percent in September 2022, 4.5 percent in October 2022, 4.2 percent in November 2022, and 4.3 percent in December 2022.

Mapa said the 4.8 percent unemployment rate in January 2023 translated to 2.37 million unemployed Filipinos. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Remulla said authorities saw a "pattern of impunity" in Negros Oriental following the March 4 killing of Degamo in his residence.

"What comes out is a pattern. It's a pattern of impunity that we did not sense before. It is something that is so new to us," Remulla said, after visiting Degamo’s wake on Wednesday night along with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr.

"It's very hard to imagine this happening before. But now that this happened, the stories are beginning to make sense that there was a pattern of impunity within the area," he added.

Senator Ronald dela Rosa, meanwhile, said some of his colleagues in the Senate who did not carry firearms before have bought guns for their own protection.

A former chief of the PNP, Dela Rosa advised his fellow senators to practice shooting so they know how to use their guns when the need arises.

As chairperson of the Senate committee on public order and illegaldrugs, Dela Rosa was tasked to lead the Senate probe into the spate of political killings.

Dela Rosa said he might set a hearing next week.

The Philippine National Police confirmed on Thursday the personnel changes in Sta. Catalina Police in Negros Oriental amid the ongoing investigation into the Degamo killing.

These included 56 officers from Sta. Catalina and 76 from the Bayawan City police station.

PNP spokesperson Police Col. Jean Fajardro said that an investigation into the failure to provide adequate security coverage for Degamo is also underway.

The motor tanker Princess Empress, which was carrying 800,000 liters of industrial fuel oil, sank near the Verde Island Passage off Mindoro—one of the most biodiverse marine habitats on the planet.

"With this tragedy that has happened, the damage that it will cost to this ecologically sensitive area would be felt for decades," Eisma-Osorio stressed.

Sen. Cynthia A. Villar filed Senate Resolution No. 537 on Thursday to investigate the oil spill from the sunken tanker that she said “has been causing massive damage to the marine ecosystem and biodiversity, and even threatening the world-renowned Boracay Island.”

Villar's measure wants to inquire into the negative impact of the oil spill, ecologically and economically. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Zubiri, Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva, House Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe, Senators Loren Legarda and Joseph Victor Ejercito, and Reps. Tobias Tiangco and Joboy Aquino, House Secretary General Reginald S. Velasco, and Senate Sec. Renato N. Bantug Jr.

Romualdez said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., in his first State of the Nation Address last July, brought up the need to digitize, harmonize and share government records across departments and agencies.

“In response to this call, the House of Representatives, along with the Senate, now jointly establish and maintain an integrated and secure digital legislative management system for the Congress of the Philippines,” he said.

Romualdez said eCongress represents the “synergy” between the Senate and the House in their common aspiration to digitize their processes, services, and records, and share information.

He noted that such an effective communications system not only amplifies the capacity of government organizations, ensures greater transparency, and deters corruption but also serves as a mechanism for public information to promote citizen engagement in policymaking. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

4 kids...

From A1

from Lt. Col. Jonathan Aznan, Trece Martires City police chief, at 12:35 p.m., police received a call from barangay officials regarding a commotion inside a house in Barangay Cabuco.

The gate was locked when the police arrived, which prompted the cops to use a bolt cutter.

When the cops entered the house, they discovered the lifeless bodies of the

Back proposals for LGUs, PBBM tells councilors

By Vince Lopez

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday asked for support from local legislators for the passage of his administration’s legislative priorities, especially measures aimed at empowering local government units.

Speaking before the Philippine Councilors League (PCL) National Convention 2023 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City last night, President Marcos told the councilors they have “an obligation to give life, meaning and substance to the constitutional mandate of local autonomy and decentralization of powers.”

Councilors are also endowed to engage in meaningful discussions on matters involving local legislative concerns, Mr. Marcos added.

“With this, I am hopeful that you will support the passage of the Administration’s legislative priorities, particularly measures that aim to capacitate local government units,” the President told the convention attendees. Vince Lopez (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

WHO Western Pacific chief axed for misconduct

GENEVA—The World Health Organization has terminated the contract of its powerful Western Pacific regional director Takeshi Kasai following staff accusations of racist, abusive and authoritarian behaviour.

The move is a first for the WHO, which has faced accusations of not being transparent on internal misconduct.

Japanese doctor Kasai was in charge of the WHO's Western Pacific region, covering almost 1.9 billion people across 37 territories and has its headquarters in Manila.

The WHO received allegations of misconduct against Kasai in the second half of 2021 and in 2022, it said.

The country’s total COVID-19 vaccine wastage is estimated to hit over 50 million by end-March, the Department of Health (DOH) confirmed Thursday, citing the supposed hesitancy of Filipinos to be inoculated.

During a Senate Blue Ribbon committee hearing, DOH officer-incharge Maria Rosario Vergeire said around 44 million COVID-19 vaccine doses have been wasted. Panel chairperson Sen. Francis Tolentino said another 6 million doses of vaccines are also set to expire this month, projecting a total of 50.74 million vaccine wastage by end of March, which Vergeire confirmed.

"In line with the organisation's policy of zero tolerance for abusive conduct, the allegations were investigated and subsequently reviewed," it said, which resulted in findings of misconduct.

"After careful consideration of the findings... the regional director's appointment has been terminated."

The decision came following a twoday special meeting of the WHO's 34-country executive board in Geneva. AFP with Willie Casas (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Missing...

From A1

“The CAAP has received information that the Cessna aircraft that went missing in Isabela on 24 January 2023 has been found.”

The Philippine Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Center reported that the wreckage of the Cessna 206 aircraft was found around 11:46 a.m. by composite teams from the Armed the Forces of the Philippines at the Dumagat tribe living in the hills at Barangay Ditarum, Divilacan.

Foronda told GMA News they would bring down the bodies of the plane’s pilot and six passengers once they get clearance from local police crime laboratories and Scene of the Crime Operatives.

Parts of the plane were scattered around the area where it crashed, Engr. Ezikiel Chavez of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer (MDRRMO) of Divilacan town. Clothes believed to be from the people onboard were seen hanging from trees, he said. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

children inside a room, together with the bloodied and weakened suspect. Authorities tried to bring the suspect to the nearest hospital for treatment, but he succumbed to his wounds while receiving aid.

Before dying, Escalona apparently wrote with a bloody hand on the walls “Pasensya na, mahal kita Vi (Forgive me, I love you Vi),” referring to the children’s mother. The police said that the neighbors heard shouting and crying from the victims' house before noon and asked their barangay officials to check on the commotion.

IN BRIEF

LTO suspends license of Ilocos crash driver

THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Thursday issued a 90-day suspension on the driver’s license of a motorist whose vehicle collided with two motorcycle riders in San Esteban, Ilocos Sur in February.

Renan Melitante, Intelligence and Investigation Division officer in charge, said the vehicle involved in the incident was already placed under alarm.

The investigation is in connection to the viral video showing the collision of the motorist’s vehicle and two motorcycles participating in the BOSS Ironman Motorcycle Challenge, which severely injured the riders.

The driver of the vehicle involved in the incident yesterday failed to appear in the hearing set by the IID.

He is given a chance to attend the next hearing so he can explain why he should not be charged with reckless driving in violation of Republic Act 4136. Rio N. Araja

Bacolod hailed for PBBM housing program gains

THE Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) on Thursday cited Bacolod City for implementing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing program.

DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar commended the grit and determination of the Bacolod City government in pushing for the implementation of the administration’s flagship shelter program.

He cited Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez’s determination to provide decent, safe and affordable shelters to informal settler families under the program. Rio N. Araja

PH delegation going to NY women’s summit

RECOGNIZING the role of women in society, the Philippines has sent a delegation to the 67th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW67) in New York, which will be held from March 6 to 17.

The Philippine delegation is headed by Antonio M. Lagdameo, Ambassador and Permanent Representative, Philippine Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York.

The delegation’s primary representatives include Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez, Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Undersecretary Anna Mae Lamentillo, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Cherbett Karen Maralit, and Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative, Philippine Permanent Mission to the UN in New York, Ariel Rodelas Peñaranda. Vince Lopez

LEGAL ASSISTANCE FOR TEACHERS.

Vice President and Education

Secretary Sara Duterte spoke at the National Election Summit and urged Commission on Elections officials to prioritize avenues for improved technical and legal assistance among public school teachers as members of the electoral board.

Danny Pata

‘Advance payment for poll teachers’

By Bobby Lagsa

VICE President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte-Carpio on Thursday suggested to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to pay teachers in advance for their service during elections.

Duterte-Carpio said this during the National Election Summit held at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza in Manila.

Duterte-Carpio said public school teachers who spend long and tedious hours in polling precincts have been requesting advance and proper compensation.

“Of course, they travel, they eat, and they also have expenses during the days they are serving the country. Maybe it will be advanced, or it can be a consideration or a plan for future elections that will prioritize payments or compensation for our teachers,” the

Vie President added.

The Comelec is currently preparing for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) which has been delayed in May and was pushed to December 2022. The BSKE was then again moved this year to October 2023. The last BSKE was held in 2018 and unlike the national polls which used automated counting, BSKE votes will be counted manually.

“This year, as we approach the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, we are called to demonstrate

our commitment to a clean, honest, and meaningful election by improving efficiency and ensuring public confidence in the various stages of the entire electoral process,” Duterte-Carpio said.

“We owe it to them (teachers) to ensure the safe and credible conduct of vote canvassing. Maybe, we from the Department of Education will pay our teachers first before the election,” she said.

The Vice President also called on the Comelec to ensure the safety of the teachers serving during the elections.

“Sometimes, teachers are intimidated by warlord politicians and used as tools in their fraud,” Duterte-Carpio said.

Duterte-Carpio added that these incidents usually happen in remote areas known to be controlled by politicians’ private armies.

The Vice President also suggested

FOR PH SOVEREIGN RIGHTS.

Dinna Umengan, executive director of Tambuyog Development Center, and representatives from various non-government organizations and civil society organizations (CSOs) present a joint statement asserting the country’s sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea. Norman Cruz

Groups demand gov’t support on rare disease management plan

SEVEN years after the passage of a law advancing the interests of persons afflicted with rare diseases, patients, and other stakeholder groups are still clamoring for government support in terms of adequate funding and implementation of the Integrated Rare Diseases Management

Program Strategic Plan.

“Persons suffering from rare diseases, sometimes called orphan disorders, need the help of society, and these efforts must be led by the government,” said Alvin Manalansan, co-convenor of Universal Health Watch Philippines.

“But why did it take the government

years to make the first appropriation for the law in 2022, and why was the budget drastically cut for 2023?” Manalansan said this and other issues confronting rare-disease patients will be discussed in a dialogue among stakeholders, organized by UHC in partnership with the Philippine Soci-

ety of Orphan Disorders and the Stratbase ADR Institute.

The dialogue, “Sustaining Gains and Balancing Priorities: Implementation of Rare Disease Act for 2023,” will be held on March 21 (Tuesday) at Seda Residences in Makati. It will also be livestreamed via Zoom.

that the electoral process can move to something better than shading or writing on the ballots, suggesting to use of technologies such as fingerprints, face, and eye scanning to ensure the validity of the people’s votes.

Comelec chair George Erwin M. Garcia meanwhile said that the 1987 Constitution have empowered the poll body with a mandate and duty to administer and enforce election laws in the country.

However, Garcia admitted that Comelec cannot do it alone without the participation of other government agencies and other stakeholders.

“We need your help, your guidance, your criticisms, your well-meaning suggestions on how to further improve the conduct of all electoral exercises in the country. This is what the first election summit is all about,” Garcia said in his speech.

Marcos,

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and other Cabinet officials participated in the Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) for the first quarter of 2023.

The earthquake drill, which started at 2 p.m., was held at Malacañan Palace.

Mr. Marcos was accompanied by Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Hubert Guevara, Special Assistant to the President Antonio Ernesto Lagdameo Jr., National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) earlier encouraged the public to join earthquake drills to reduce casualties as there are still no means to predict when temblors would occur.

The quarterly conduct of the nationwide earthquake drills each year is an effort of the government to promote disaster preparedness and resilience among Filipinos.

Parents of Dengvaxia children file SC petition

By Rio n. Araja

PARENTS of children who have died due to alleged Dengvaxia vaccination have filed an administrative complaint with the Supreme Court (SC) against a judge from a Quezon City lower court to seek a “fair trial.”

Ramil Pestilos, Liza Maquilan, Elena Baldonado, Ariel Hedia, Ian Colite, Analyn Ebona, Almer Bautista, Darwin Bataan, and Merly Bataan lodged their complaint against Branch

13 Judge Lily Ann Padaen before SC’s Office of the Court Administrator.

Padaen took over the litigation of

the criminal case filed by the initial batch of eight parents whose children’s death were linked to Dengvaxia.

Judge Jose Bautista of Branch 107 earlier inhibited from the case filed against former Health Secretary Janette Garin and 38 others for reckless imprudence resulting in homicide.

Albano halts quarrying in portions of Cagayan River

By Brenda Jocson

CABATUAN, Isabela—Gov. Rodito T. Albano III has ordered mandatory rehabilitation of portions of the Cagayan River which were turned into quarry sites in Cabatuan town.

Executive Order (EO) No. 01 series of 2023 was recently issued to all stakeholders including Cabatuan Mayor Bernardo A. Garcia Jr., Isabela Police Provincial Office (IPPO), Environment Natural Resources Office (Isabela ENRO) and respective officials on all concerned barangays citing the unregulated quarrying

that has been done since 2014 leading to several drowning incidents.

EO No. 01 also placed the entire municipality in a quarry moratorium.

Section 1 of the EO consists of the declaration of the cease and desist order to all quarry operations by the Provincial Government of Isabela, which would take over any and all existing quarry operations to give way to the immediate rehabilitation and desilting of Cagayan River.

“The suspension of quarry permits is tantamount to no quarry permit, thus, failure to comply with this EO shall be considered

and proceeded as violation and may cause the permanent revocation of the quarry permit,” Albano, in a statement, said Further, the moratorium/suspension shall remain valid and effective pending the outcome of the rehabilitation and desilting activities.

The quarry moratorium stemmed from the letter of Garcia to DENRMGB Regional Director, Engr. Mario Ancheta expressing the immensely dismal state of the quarry sites within the municipality due to unregulated quarrying activities and the unrehabilitated state of the riverbeds and riverbanks.

other officials join quake drills

EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS DRILL. President Ferdinand. Marcos Jr. demonstrates his commitment to promote disaster safety and preparedness by participating in the first quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) 2023, organized by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council to raise public awareness and readiness in the event of a potentially disastrous earthquake.

PCO photo

Price caps eyed on modern PUVs

By Maricel V. Cruz

TWO state-run banks bat for a price ceiling on modernized jeepneys, saying the current costs of the vehicles have made it unviable.

Meanwhile, party-list Rep. Margarita Nograles said the recent nationwide transport strike that threatened to cripple public transportation has underscored the urgency of passing a measure to regulate the use and the operation of motorcycle taxis and other motorcylefor-hire services.

Officials of the Land Bank of the

DICT considers resetting SIM listup deadline

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is looking at the possibility of extending the SIM Card registration deadline after only 22.26 percent of the total subscribers nationwide have so far registered.

“DICT has the prerogative to extend the SIM registration process for another 120 days. We are still deliberating on the matter,” DICT Undersecretary and spokesperson Anna Mae Yu Lamentillo said.

“We are focused on increasing the number of registrants before the April 26 deadline,” she added.

As of March 6, some 41 million SIMs were registered, representing 24.26 percent of the total subscribers in the country.

Smart Communications Inc. reported a total of 20,882,843 SIMs registered, which is 30.71 percent of its 67,995,734 subscribers.

On the other hand, Globe Telecom Inc. recorded 17,005,201 registered, or 19.35 percent of its 87,873,936 subscribers.

Meanwhile, DITO Telecommunity Corp. reported a total of 3,114,190 SIMs registered, or 23.76 percent of its 13,108,103 subscribers.

IN BRIEF

House set to approve gov’t rightsizing bill

THE House of Representatives is poised to approve next week on third and final reading House Bill (HB) 7240 or the proposed “National Government Rightsizing Act.”

This after the chamber passed the measure on second reading on Wednesday.

The bill focuses on streamlining the operations of different agencies under the Executive branch.

House Committee on Government Reorganization chairman and Bukidnon Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores, as sponsor, explained that the rightsizing program not only seeks to remove or reduce the number of government employees, but to also streamline the processes of government services in order to provide better services to Filipinos.

Under the bill, a Committee on Rightsizing the Executive Branch (CREB) would be created to oversee the implementation of the program. Maricel V. Cruz

tion program.

Philippines (LBP) and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) made the suggestion to limit the cost of modern PUVs during Thursday’s congressional hearing on the country’s mass transport system. The hearing came on the heels of a nationwide strike by jeepney organizations to dramatize their opposition to the government’s jeepney moderniza-

The government-owned LandBank and DBP were designated to bankroll the acquisition of the modernized public utility vehicles. DBP vice president Rustico Noli Cruz and LandBank assistant vice president Genoroso David acted as resource persons during the hearing conducted by the House Committee on Transportation chaired by Antipolo Rep. Romeo Acop.

“Based on our initial study when we were involved in the conceptualization of this project, we found that operations of transport entities are to be viable if the cost is within P1.6 million to P1.8

million per unit. But now, the (modernized) jeepney’s cost is P2.3 million to P2.8 million per unit. The viability is now questionable,” David said.

For his part, Cruz said under the payment scheme per unit on modern PUVs, the current monthly amortization will reach P38,000 to P40,000 for seven years.

“That is why it is very crucial that we put up a price ceiling for PUV units because no matter how much subsidy we infuse, no matter how much low the interest rate we give transport entities, that would be negated if the prices of new PUV units will pick up,” David pointed out.

Solon seeks ecozone for Camarines Sur CAMARINES Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte on Thursday pressed the creation of a special economic zone (SEZ) in his province, which he said has been recognized as the country’s most business-friendly province for three consecutive years and was considered one of the economic performers.

Villafuerte assured the House Committees on Economic Affairs and the Committee on trade and Industry during their recent joint hearing that his proposed SEZ was envisioned to be the “center of development” in the Bicol region.

He added that Camarines Sur has “all that it takes to become a major investment hub, given that its ideal features meet the standards of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) for ecozones.” Maricel V. Cruz

Maguindanao to send Royal Mission to UAE

THE Care for the Environment will host the Sultan of Magindanao at a Summit in United Arab Emirates in June this year.

Maguindanao Princess Febraida Lauban Mastura-Matalam disclosed the post-Ramadan event on March 4, as part of the Maguindanao Sultanate’s tribute to women on Women’s Month.

She said the Magindanao Sultanate will be headed by Sultan Salem Abdulaziz Mastura Kudarat V, the 26th Sultan of Magindanao.

She also said Magindanao’s Royal Mission to the UAE Summit will be largely represented by the Sultanate’s Royal Princesses, including herself and Princess Jasna Mastura Karon, and Princess H. Mastura Karon. Their families count them as among Maguindanao’s “women in power.” Nash B. Maulana

Senator Dela Rosa wants to amend, strengthen Anti-Hazing Law

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Ronald Dela Rosa wants to give more teeth to the law on hazing by making schools accountable, and penalizing them if found negligent in implementing the law. Dela Rosa noted that hazing can cause serious injuries and even death of

school fraternity neophytes undergoing the so-called initiation rites.

Dela Rosa, a former Philippine National Police chief, made the observation during a hearing conducted by the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights led by Senator Francis Tolentino jointly with the Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs

Experts: DOH needs bigger budget to save more lives

CANCER, which kills four Filipino daily, is now preventable and treatable owing to medical advances, cancer experts said.

“We can beat cancer. We acan save lives. We can do more if the budget is increased by Congress,” cancer specialist Dr. Marvin Mendoza asserted.

According to Mendoza, head of the cancer center at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, the DOH’s P1billion budget can only handle and potentially save only 200 people to complete the 18-month treatment cycle.

In other words, the bigger the budget for treatment, the fewer deaths there

will be, he said. Dr. Marigold Ferrolino, head of Rizal Medical Center (RMC) oncology department, and Dr. Antonio Alonzo, radiation oncologist, noted that modern medicines and equipment for free treatment of cancer are now available locally through the Department of Health (DOH).

Malacañang bares latest executive appointments

MALACAÑANG on Thursday announced the latest appointments involving various departments under the Marcos administration.

The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) released to reporters the list of the appointees as of March 6. Among the newly hired was former Department of the Interior and

Local Government (DILG) spokesman and Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya, who was named National Security Council (NSC) assistant director general.

Records showed that Malaya has served in nine government agencies, including the Office of the President, the Department of Education and the

Office of the Solicitor General.

Former Quezon City councilor Diorella Maria Sotto-Antonio was reappointed as chairperson of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB). She initially held the post since July 2022, but her appointment is set to expire on Sept. 30 this year.

panel headed by Dela Rosa.

The panel called the hearing following the hazing death of John Matthew Salilig, a 24-year-old chemical engineering student of the Adamson University (AdU).

Dela Rosa joined Senator Raffy Tulfo in proposing to amend the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018 to penalize negligent school

administrators after it was learned that no orientation was given by the school to the Tau Gamma Phi members involved in Salilig’s death.

It was also gathered that the fraternity was not recognized by AdU.

The fraternity leaders claimed they did not know it was a requirement of the Anti-Hazing Law.

BACK TO SCHOOL. Pupils of the Pinyahan Elementary School in Quezon City return to their class, ending a three-day ‘asynchronous session’ due to the just-concluded jeepney strike. Manny Palmero

Refreshing a witness’ memory

NOT all documents presented to a witness during trial has to be marked in evidence.

There are times a document is presented to the witness only to refresh his or her memory since it might have grown hazy over time.

The stimulus is the document that helps the witness recollect matters within his personal knowledge.

The purpose of refreshing the recollection of a witness is to enable both witness and his present testimony to be put fairly and in their proper light before the court (Evidence, Francisco citing People v. Zamora).

However, “[i]f you allow him to consult notes, you partly lose the advantage of that lively and quick examination which does not give bad faith time to think” (Evidence, Francisco citing Betham, Rationale Judicial Evidence).

“A witness may be permitted to read or consult a writing… [to] refresh… his recollection and then testify as to the matters… which his memory has been refreshed… [A] nd the fact that the witness did not recall the transaction until [he]… [has been] refreshed… does not [mean] that his testimony is without probative force” (Evidence, Francisco).

“Where the witness’ memory is revived, and he… recollects the facts and swears to them, the evidence is the testimony… and not the writing (or record)… used to stimulate his memory.” If “the perusal of a memorandum revives the memory of a witness, he should then testify… without the aid of the writing (or record)” (Evidence, Francisco citing 98 C.J.S 85-87). This is known as present recollection revived.

In order for a document to be admissible as a record of the witness’ past recollection, a proper foundation must be laid by showing that the witness once knew the facts narrated in the memorandum, that he recollects the making of the memorandum, and that it was truly made so that he can swear that it is correct (Evidence, Francisco).

Where

witness

A witness should not be allowed to see, consult, or refer to a memorandum for the purpose of refreshing his memory unless it appears that it is necessary for him to testify. It is proper to refuse to permit the use of the writing when the witness has a clear, distinct and independent recollection of the facts (Evidence, Francisco).

Under the 2019 Rules on Evidence, reference by a witness to a memorandum is allowed to refresh his memory respecting the fact that it was “written or recorded by himself or herself, or under his or her direction, at the time when the fact occurred, or immediately thereafter, or at any other time when the fact was fresh in his or her memory and he or she knew that the same was correctly written or recorded” (Section 16, Rule 132).

Generally, where the present independent recollection of the witness is revived, the use of the paper is proper regardless of whether or not it was made contemporaneously with the event to which it relates, and the trial court does not abuse its discretion by permitting the use of a memorandum made a substantial time

Charter change: Wholesale or retail?

after the event (Evidence, Francisco citing 98

C.J.S. 97-98).

“Where the witness is not testifying from his present independent recollection, he may use a writing which he made; but it has been held that he may not testify on the basis of a writing which was not made by him or under his direction” (Evidence, Francisco citing 98

C.J.S 94-96).

In simpler words, a witness may testify on the writing of another only from his past recollection, if made under his direction.

In the same 2019 amendment to the Rules on Evidence, “[A] witness may also testify from such a writing or record, though he or she retains no recollection of the particular facts, if he or she is able to swear that the writing or record correctly stated the transaction when made; but such evidence must be received with caution” (Section 16, Rule 132).

Where a witness has no independent recollection, but testifies merely from his knowledge or belief in the accuracy of the paper, it is proper that the paper should be put in evidence, or read to, or allowed to go before, the court as auxiliary to the witness’ testimony or as statement adopted by him (Evidence, Francisco).

This is known as past recollection recorded.

“The reason for this rule is that ‘…the oral testimony of the witness would amount to nothing if standing alone, because, after the examination of the memorandum, the witness concedes that his testimony is not a statement of what he then recalls in relation to the subjectmatter… but… what he now knows in relation to the correctness of the memorandum…’” (Evidence, Francisco).

“But if her present memory is less effective, it is sufficient if the witness testifies that she knows the memorandum is correct because of a habit or practice to record matters accurately or to check them for accuracy…it is even sufficient if the individual testifies to recognizing her signature on the statement and believes the statement is correct…” (Johnson v. State, 967 S.W.2d 410).

The use of memoranda or documents is permissible to refresh the memory of a witness as to the date of an occurrence, the age of an individual, his physical condition at a certain time, the names and addresses of persons who witnessed an accident, and the place where the witness was on a certain day (Evidence, Francisco).

It may also include physical measurements, the whereabouts of plaintiff at the time of the filing of the suit, the contents of a lost contract, the figures of an account, the articles sold to a certain person, or the articles on the taking of which an action is based, or the birthplace of the witness (Evidence, Francisco).

Where the witness is permitted to use a memorandum when on the witness stand, he may be cross-examined as to the same and it may be inspected by the cross-examiner, since in no other way can the accuracy and recollection of the witness be ascertained.

It is only by the inspection of the paper and such cross-examination that it can be ascertained whether the memorandum does assist the memory or not (Evidence, Francisco; see Section 16, Rule 132).

Despite all these, “[t]he use of memorandum by a witness during his examination to revive or refresh his recollection rests largely in the discretion of the court [which must not be abused].”

This is clearly inferred from the very wording of the rule which states: “A witness may be allowed to refresh his [or her] memory” (Evidence, Francisco).

WE OFTEN hear the proponents of changing the 1987 Constitution arguing that it’s an urgent one so we can attract more foreign investments.

They point to the provision that limits foreign firms to only 40 percent of investments in the country, with 60 percent reserved for Filipino citizens or corporations.

Why not open up parts of the economy to full or 100 percent ownership by foreigners? This restriction, they insist, is the reason why our neighbors in Southeast Asia and other developing countries have been overtaking us in economic development.

The argument has its merits, to be sure. But as shown by recent experience, we do not have to revise the entire Constitution to get rid of its restrictive economic provisions.

How? By simply enacting laws that will allow foreigners to own even 100 percent of certain sectors, such as transportation. So why is there an apparent effort

to revive the Charter change proposal, whether through a constitutional assembly or a constitutional convention, despite President Marcos Jr.’s clear pronouncement that he does not consider revising the Constitution at this time to get rid of its restrictive economic provisions?

It appears that some of those pushing Charter change are motivated not solely by their ardent desire to change its economic provisions but its political provisions as well.

The main proponent of Charter change in the House of Representatives has conceded there is no guarantee that either a Constitutional Convention (Con-con) or a Constitutional Assembly (Con-ass) would focus its attention on

Abolish the MMDA?

WITH a Manila congressman calling for its outright abolition, the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) now faces close scrutiny over its regulatory and supervisory authority over the delivery of services to the National Capital Region comprising 17 cities and one municipality.

Manila Rep. Joel Chua enumerated the reasons for his stand in a privilege speech.

One, he believes the MMDA has been encroaching on the jurisdiction of Metro Manila’s local governments and duplicating the work of national agencies.

Two, he claims the agency has a bloated bureaucracy, having expanded through the years from 6,812 personnel in 2011 to 9,767 personnel in 2021.

Three, he argues, the agency has been wasting billions in public funds with nothing to show for them.

He cited the MMDA flood control projects worth P635.5 million, of which 20 have not been completed as of 2021; and 49 other uncompleted projects costing P1.624 billion.

And four, the lawmaker also slammed the agency for “disrupting the lives of Manila residents through operations involving demolitions of homes, clearing of roads and sidewalks and traffic management and enforcement.” He maintained the MMDA has not been coordinating its clearing operations with local governments.

Chua proposed the MMDA’s various roles and functions: development planning; transport and traffic management; solid waste disposal and management, sanitation, pollution control and flood control; sewerage management and sanitation; urban renewal, zoning, and land use planning and shelter services; public health; and public safety, be reverted to the Metro Manila Council as well as the national government agencies. He pointed out that if there are major infrastructure projects in Metro Manila, “we have the Department of Transportation, the Department of Public Works and Highways, the Department of Human Settlements and

Idiotic

MANY senators do not deserve to be in office, as seen in the kind of bills they propose.

One example is Senator Robinhood Padilla, the ex-film actor who wants Plane, a new Hollywood motion picture, banned from local exhibition.

The film is about a group of foreigners whose aircraft crashes in Jolo, Sulu, and are captured and maltreated by Filipino bandits. Padilla insists the film puts the Philippines in bad light.

Apparently, Padilla does not realize that Plane is fictional material, just like many other Hollywood and local movies are.

There is no difference between Plane and local films which depict the Filipino villains therein as criminals. Local comedy films often portray Filipinos as idiots, but nobody ever considered those films as an insult to Filipinos.

Earlier on, Padilla claimed any inquiry from anyone about the current whereabouts of the President of the Philippines is a threat to national security.

In making that announcement, Padilla shows his utter lack of discernment about the nature of the presidency. The President is elected by the people by direct ballot, and it is natural for them, often through the press, to want to find out where their elected

leader is at any given time. How can voters’ curiosity about the whereabouts of the President constitute a threat to national security, in the senseless way Padilla believes it is?

Padilla also wants charter change, apparently because he is the chairman of the Senate’s committee on constitutional Amendments. He probably thinks that as the head of that committee, he must sponsor amendments to the Constitution. Apparently, Padilla is unaware that the rejection of measures to amend the Constitution is among the concerns of that committee.

Padilla ought to be told about retired Supreme Court Justice Vicente V. Mendoza’s apt warning about reckless charter change. According to Mendoza, “when it is not necessary to change, it is necessary not to change.”

Senator Ronald “Bato” de la Rosa thinks in the same plane (no pun intended) as Padilla does.

In particular, de la Rosa is angry that the passengers who survived the crash in Plane at first thought that they landed in Davao. For the senator, that puts his native Davao in bad light, and so the film should be banned.

Pastilan Dodong! Does this senator realize the

It’s

absurdity of his statement?

The equally misguided Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri shares the absurd views of Padilla and de la Rosa. According to Zubiri, the film discourages tourism in the Philippines because viewers will be led to believe it isn’t safe in the country. If that is the way the President of the Senate thinks, then the future of the Senate is in jeopardy. It’s almost like ex-Senator Francis Pangilinan’s preposterous claim, during his unsuccessful run for the vice presidency last year, that if he

Urban Development and the Department of Information and Communications Technology [to handle them].”

MMDA officials themselves should respond to the lawmaker’s allegations pointby-point. They are in the best position to defend themselves.

changing the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution. House committee on Constitutional amendments chair and Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez acknowledged there was a “big possibility” that political provisions, including those pertaining to term limits of elected officials and the ban on political dynasties, could be discussed by the proposed Con-con that would include both elected and appointed delegates.

For Rodriguez, the current Chacha initiative was propelled by the “compelling” reason the House “cannot turn its back from the truth that the 1987 Constitution needs to be reviewed for it is the third most restrictive in the world and the most restrictive in the ASEAN…It is high time to liberalize such restrictions to encourage the free flow of capital in the country and pave the way for global competitiveness.”

“Constituent power” is how Rodriguez describes the possibility that Charter change is likely to meander well beyond economic reforms toward political amendments, such as term extensions and junking the constitutional ban on political dynasties.

But just how far would that go? And would that be good for poverty alleviation and a robust democracy?

National Police or their duly authorized representatives, attend meetings of the council as non-voting members.

The Metro Manila Council is the policymaking body of the MMDA. It approves metro-wide plans, programs and projects and issues rules, regulations and resolutions deemed necessary by the MMDA.

Moreover, it promulgates rules and regulations and sets policies and standards for metro-wide application governing the delivery of basic services, prescribes and collects service and regulatory fees, and imposes and collects fines and penalties.

In other words, the Metro Manila Council is the policy-making body while the MMDA implements metro-wide policies.

On our part, we beg to disagree with the lawmaker’s call for the MMDA to be abolished for duplicating the work of national agencies.

His stand appears to be the result of an erroneous understanding of the role of the MMDA in relation to the Metro Manila Council.

As we understand it, the MMDA is under the direct supervision of the Office of the President.

It performs planning, monitoring and coordinative functions, and exercises regulatory and supervisory authority over the delivery of metro-wide services within Metro Manila without diminution of the autonomy of the local government units concerning purely local matters.

The governing board and policy making body of the MMDA is the Metro Manila Council, composed of the mayors of the cities and municipalities. The heads of the departments of Transportation, Public Works, Tourism, Budget and Management, Human Settlements and Urban Development, and the Philippine

(Pangilinan) is elected vice president, the price of food will go down. Then there is Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., a movie actor who can’t distinguish between the make-believe world of cinema and his role as a senator. This traditional politician will say anything just to get votes.

For instance, late last year, Revilla proposed legislation to reduce the minimum age for senior citizen discounts from the current 60 years to just 56. Revilla made the non sequitur observation that many senior citizens who died during the COVID-19 pandemic were not able to avail themselves of their discounts.

He also said his proposal will reduce the financial burdens of Filipinos in their late 50s.

Revilla seems ignorant of the rationale behind the law on senior citizen discounts.

Citizens from age 60 and above are often already retired, or are too weak to work like they used to. They are given discounts to assuage the twilight years of their lives.

The law strikes a balance between the need to care for the elderly, and the interests of the business sector.

Thus, those who still have gainful employment,

The Metro Manila Council, therefore, cannot take over the day-to-day work of the MMDA, as the lawmaker suggested.

The city and municipal mayors as a group can only formulate policies for Metro Manila as whole. Individually, they cannot go around and dictate to other mayors and city and town officials what they should do to implement the letter and spirit of metrowide policies approved by the Metro Manila Council.

Having said that, while we do not believe that the MMDA should be abolished and its place taken by the Metro Manila Council, we think the agency should clearly define the limits of its authority to avoid any conflict with elected local officials whose constituents want them to speak on their behalf whenever their rights and welfare are at stake.

But more on that in another column— and why the MMDA deserves all the opprobrium it is getting from all over.

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

or are fit enough to work (often below 60 years) are not entitled to senior citizen discounts.

Obviously, the populist Revilla wanted the votes of those who will benefit from his proposal.

Just recently, Revilla came up with another silly proposal: the virtual abolition of homework for all school children.

Revilla claims that homework tires school children needlessly, and deprives them of time to relax with their families. He also wants classroom work reduced. What nonsense!

Classroom exercises and homework are means by which lessons are inculcated in the pupils.

Revilla’s hollow excuse for his bill is counterproductive, and will only further reduce the quality of learning among Filipino school children.

Obviously, Revilla simply wants the youth to vote for him for a possible higher office.

It’s either that, or Revilla must have had a difficult time with homework when he was still an elementary student.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg warned the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut might fall to Russia in the coming days following months of intense fighting.

His remarks came as Russia's Wagner mercenary group, which has spearheaded the attack on Bakhmut, claimed to have captured the eastern bank of the industrial town, devastated in the longest battle since Moscow invaded Ukraine a year ago.

Wagner chief and Kremlin ally Yevgeny Prigozhin said on social media Wednesday that his forces "have taken all of the eastern part of Bakhmut," a salt-mining town with a pre-war population of 80,000.

The intense fighting around Bakhmut has been the longest and bloodiest in Russia's more than year-long invasion, which has devastated swathes of Ukraine and displaced millions of people.

"What we see is that Russia is throwing more troops, more forces and what Russia lacks in quality they try to make up in quantity," Stoltenberg told reporters in Stockholm on the sidelines of an EU defence ministers meeting.

"We cannot rule out that Bakhmut may eventually fall in the coming days," the head of the US-led military alliance said, adding that "this does not necessarily reflect any turning point of the war."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned in an interview with CNN of what could happen if Bakhmut falls to Russian forces.

"We understand that after Bakhmut, (Russian forces) could go further" and attack nearby cities in the Donetsk region, he said.

"They could go to Kramatorsk, they could go to Sloviansk, it would be an open road for the Russians after Bakhmut to other towns in Ukraine, in the Donetsk direction," Zelensky said in an interview set to air Wednesday. AFP

DEATH OF AN AMERICAN DREAM.

Municipal Cemetery of

Real

journey through the inhospitable Darien

AFP

SUBMARINE DEAL EXPECTED

THE leaders of the United States, Britain and Australia will meet in the United States next week to discuss security and foreign policy, all three countries said Wednesday ahead of an expected nuclear submarine deal aimed at countering China’s growing assertiveness in the Pacific.

After 18 months of negotiations, it is anticipated that Australia will reveal plans to obtain eight nuclear-powered submarines, in what Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called "the single biggest leap" in defense capability in his country's history.

The deal is part of the fledgling regional security pact among Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States known as AUKUS.

President Joe Biden will meet Monday in San Diego, California with Albanese and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to discuss AUKUS, and will also hold separate bilateral talks with them, the White House said. The meeting was also announced by Australia and Britain.

On Monday the British government will also publish an update to its so-called "Integrated Review" of security, defense and foreign policy, a spokesman for Sunak said in London. The last update two years ago was billed as the most comprehensive since the Cold War era and crafted as London recalibrated its post-Brexit foreign policy. London has insisted the new three-way defense alliance is not intended to be adversarial towards any other nation. But it has been widely seen as a Western response to concern about China's increasing influence in the region, and the pace and size of Beijing's military expansion.

Since September 2021, behind-the-scenes talks have been taking place between the AUKUS partners about how to equip Australia's military with sensitive nuclear-propulsion technology.

Australia does not have the expertise to build its own nuclear subs – which have an extended range and powerful strike capabilities – and must buy them from either the United States or Britain.

The emerging deal has worried some of Australia's largest regional allies, with both Indonesia and Malaysia questioning whether it could spark a nuclear arms race in the Indo-Pacific.

While the subs will be powered by a nuclear reactor, Australia has ruled out equipping them with nuclear weapons.

The submarine contract is expected to be worth tens of billions of US dollars, but experts say its significance goes beyond jobs created and investments pledged.

Nuclear-powered submarines are difficult to detect, can travel long distances for prolonged periods and can be armed with sophisticated cruise missiles.

That would allow Australia to launch strikes or counterstrikes deep into enemy territory with little warning.

Beijing has voiced deep opposition to the project, which it sees as "dangerous" and designed to corner China.

Major questions still linger, including whether Australia will look to buy US or British submarines, where they will be built, and when they will be in the water.

Britain's The Times newspaper reported Tuesday that Australia is expected to acquire submarines built by Britain, rather than the United States, under the AUKUS pact because it is easier to crew the smaller UK vessels. AFP

NEARLY 200,000 people in Thailand have been admitted to hospital because of air pollution this week, officials have said, with Bangkok shrouded in a harmful haze.

The Thai capital, home to an estimated 11 million people and one of the world's most popular tourist destinations, has been blanketed for days by an unpleasant yellow-grey mix of vehicle fumes, industrial emissions and smoke from agricultural burning. More than 1.3 million people have fallen sick in the kingdom since the start of the year as a result of air pollution, with nearly 200,000 admitted to hospital this week alone, according to the public health ministry. Kriangkrai Namthaisong, a doctor at the ministry, on Wednesday urged children and pregnant women to stay indoors. Anyone going outside should wear a high-quality N95 anti-pollution mask, he added.

During another pollution peak in late January and early February, city authorities urged people to work from home.

A spokesman for Bangkok governor Chadchart Sittipunt – elected last year with promises to improve the city's environment – said they would not hesitate to issue another similar order if the situation got worse. Aekvarunyoo Amrapala told AFP that nurseries run by the city had set up special "no dust rooms" with air purifiers to protect young children, as well as checkpoints to monitor vehicle emissions.

The public health ministry said 50 districts in Bangkok on Wednesday recorded unsafe levels of the most dangerous PM2.5 particles – so tiny they can enter the bloodstream – while on Thursday they remained well above World Health Organization guidelines. AFP

MALAYSIAN anti-graft authorities on Thursday questioned former prime minister Muhyiddin Yassin following allegations that his party misused public funds meant to fight COVID-19.

Muhyiddin was prime minister for 17 months between 2020 and 2021, at the height of Malaysia's battle against the coronavirus, and now leads an opposition coalition.

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has not commented on why they are questioning Muhyiddin, but it came weeks after it launched the probe into the alleged misuse of pandemic funds

THREE people have been arrested in Japan over unhygienic pranks at a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant after footage of their antics – dubbed "sushi terrorism" – sparked outrage online.

Police accused the young trio of seeking to obstruct business at major restaurant chain Kura Sushi, which was bombarded with customer complaints after the video went viral.

PERU and Burkina Faso led a global deterioration in freedom last year but a number of other nations made improvements, giving hope in the fight against authoritarianism, Freedom House said Thursday.

In its 50th annual report, the US democracy research group downgraded both Peru and Burkina Faso on its list of countries' freedom level and also assessed declines in Russia, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Hungary, among others.

Peru, whose political chaos grew last year with the impeachment of

by Bersatu, his political party. The 75-year-old said in a Facebook post on Wednesday that he had been asked to appear before MACC, but did not say why.

On Thursday, Muhyiddin visited the anti-graft body's office in Putrajaya, Malaysia's administrative capital, but did not speak to the journalists gathered outside.

MACC froze Bersatu's bank accounts last month, and two party leaders have been charged with bribery related to an economic recovery programme launched by Muhyiddin's government. AFP

The clip shows one member of the group grabbing a piece of sushi from a plate as it passes, shoving the whole morsel into their mouth and then drinking soy sauce directly from a communal bottle.

Similar videos filmed at different chains surfaced last month on platforms including Twitter and TikTok, with some apparently weeks or even years old. AFP

president Pedro Castillo after he tried to dissolve congress and rule by decree, was moved from free to partly free, while Burkina Faso, which endured two coups in 2022, went down to not free.

But Colombia and Lesotho were both upgraded to free from partly free.

Colombia saw the election of its first left-wing president, Gustavo Pedro, who has vowed to increase democratic inclusion, while Lesotho elected diamond tycoon Sam Matekane on a platform of transparency and economic reforms in the landlocked African nation. AFP

Partial view of a pantheon built by the Red Cross to bury the bodies of irregular migrants seeking to cross to the United States at the

El

de Santa Maria, Darien Province, Panama. The Red Cross constructed the hundred-niche pantheon to bury the bodies of those who died during their

jungle.

TOP GAINERS

Stock market ends six-day advance; ICTSI bucks trend

TOP LOSERS

MOST ACTIVE

STOCKS fell Thursday to end a six-day advance ahead of key US jobs data at the end of the week, after Federal Reserve boss Jerome Powell warned it could ramp up its pace of interest rate hikes if the economy shows no sign of slowing.

The PSE index, the 30-company benchmark, lost 102 points, or 1.52 percent, to close at 6,609.27 Thursday as all six subsectors retreated.

The index encompassing all shares also tumbled 36 points, or 1.02 percent, to settle at 3,549.19, on a value turnover of P4.99 billion. Losers outnumbered gainers, 105 to 72,

TRAVEL FAIR. Visitors take pictures of a multiscreen display at the Qatar booth at the International Tourism Trade Fair (ITB, Internationale Tourismusboerse) in Berlin on March 8, 2023. The world’s largest travel trade show ITB takes place from March 7 to March 9, 2023. AFP

while 52 issues were unchanged. Data showed that two of the 10 most active stocks ended in the green, led by International Container Terminal Services Inc. which went up 0.66 percent to P212.40 and BDO Unibank Inc. which rose 0.23 percent.

Most Asian stocks also traded lower. Markets have been falling since the start of February as a string of forecast-beating indicators have shattered hopes the US central bank could pause its tightening campaign soon, and even cut borrowing costs by the year’s end.

And on Tuesday, Powell delivered another blow by telling lawmakers that with inflation still stubbornly high and the jobs market tight, officials were prepared to hike by half a percentage point at their next meeting as they struggle to control prices. That would be twice the last increase, which followed a period of bumper increases last year.

The prospect of rates going ever higher—with some predicting six percent from the current 4.5 to 4.75 percent—has ramped up fears the world’s top economy could tip into recession. Analysts pointed out that bond markets suggest a contraction is on the cards.

He reiterated monetary policymakers’ determination to quell inflation on Wednesday in a second day of testimony to US lawmakers, though he did say the decision would be driven by data, with a close eye on the labor market.

“If—and I stress that no decision has been made on this—but if the totality of the data were to indicate that faster tightening is warranted, we’d be prepared to increase the pace of rate hikes,” he said.

“Inflation is coming down but it’s very high,” he added. “Some part of the high inflation that we are experiencing is very likely related to a very tight labor market.” With AFP

US worries China will use supply chains as weapon to boost might

WASHINGTON—The United States increasingly worries that China will use its power in global supply chains as an additional weapon to advance its political and military might, a report released Wednesday showed.

The “Annual Threat Assessment” issued by the Director of National Intelligence said China is already using its supply chain dominance to force foreign companies and countries to transfer technologies and intellectual property to it.

But the US intelligence community sees Beijing using this economic power in parallel with military strength to se-

cure regional and global influence.

“The government of China is capable of leveraging its dominant positions in key global supply chains in an attempt to accomplish its goals, although probably not without significant cost to itself,” the report said.

That could be a particular danger if China is able to take over Taiwan, another leading contributor to industrial and technology components, it said.

China seizing Taiwan “probably would have wide-ranging effects, including disruption to global supply chains for semiconductor chips because

Taiwan dominates production of cutting-edge chips,” it said.

The disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic showed the world the importance of supply chains—the way components of products make their way from myriad sources around the world through various countries for preliminary and final assembly before products reach the market.

The pandemic demonstrated how the disruption of a single factory in China or elsewhere could halt the work of major industrial operations around the globe.

The “Annual Threat” report singled out China’s dominance in technology sectors

including semiconductors, critical minerals, batteries, solar panels, and pharmaceuticals.

It pointed to an April 2020 speech by Chinese President Xi Jinping who said China sought to increase control of key supply chains to be “able to use those supply chain dependencies to threaten and cut off foreign countries during a crisis.”

“China’s dominance in these markets could pose a significant risk to the US and Western manufacturing and consumer sectors if the Government of China was able to adeptly leverage its dominance for political or economic gain,” it said. AFP

Oil market uncertain, fragmented after Ukraine invasion

By Thomas Urbain

HOUSTON, United States—A year after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the oil market has become more fragmented and uncertain, a dynamic expected to boost crude prices over the long term.

Condemnation of Russia by Western governments has essentially severed Europe from Russian supplies, leaving it more reliant on the Middle East and the United States.

That shift means cheaper Russian energy imports for China and India, while countries that refuse to buy Russian crude must pay a premium to import from other suppliers.

The oil market “is radically different in some ways than it was before the invasion of Ukraine,” said Jim Burkhard, head of research for oil markets, energy and mobility at S&P Global Commodity Insights.

A “true global market” with open competition “doesn’t exist anymore,” said Burkhard, who calls the current state of the market “partitioned.”

With the addition of Russia to the list of sanctioned countries alongside crude exporters Iran and Venezuela, almost 20 percent of global supply is cut off from major markets, including the United States.

“Oil is priced based on its origin, as opposed to its quality,” Burkhard said.

The balkanization of the market also affects crude tanker routes. The ban on Russian oil by Europe forces Moscow’s exports to travel further to reach buyers.

“That means more miles traveling in the water,” Torbjorn Tornqvist, co-founder of the Gunvor Group, a trading company, said at the CERAWeek energy conference in Houston. “Ship rates have been very elevated and have stayed elevated.”

Since the invasion, “we have seen a fundamental shift that is unlikely to revert anytime soon,” said Jose Fernandez, undersecretary for economic growth, energy, and the environment at the State Department.

Many expect lasting changes.

“What I think will last very long is the fundamental distrust and the fundamental deci-

Chinese

CPI dips to lowest level in a year

BEIJING—China’s consumer price inflation last month fell to its lowest level in a year, official data showed Thursday, as the country emerged from strict pandemic controls and a Lunar New Year spending binge.

February’s consumer price index—the main gauge of inflation— rose 1 percent, down from a 2.1 percent annual rise in the first month of the year, according to the country’s National Bureau of Statistics.

The latest figure is the lowest since February 2022.

NBS statistician Dong Lijuan said the drop was caused by a “decline in consumer demand after the holidays as well as suffi cient supply in the market”.

While a drop was expected, experts polled by Bloomberg ahead of the data’s release had predicted the CPI to hit 1.9 percent.

Analysts say the fall was spurred by falling food prices and cautious spending behavior, despite China’s reopening to the world after three years of its rigid zero-Covid policy.

“This casts doubt on the strength of domestic demand recovery in the household sector,” said Zhang Zhiwei, President of Pinpoint Asset Management, adding that it also “contradicts” other indicators that a strong rebound may be in the works.

“Nonetheless, the weak CPI inflation opens room for the government to launch more monetary easing policies,” said Zhang.

China has been relatively sheltered from soaring global prices and the broader economic fallout from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

But economists still expect consumer prices in China to increase in the coming months as the country emerges from the pandemic period and spending returns to normal.

Meanwhile, data released on Thursday by the NBS showed that the producer price index—which measures the cost of goods leaving factories—fell 1.4 percent from a 0.8 percent contraction in January, mainly in line with market expectations.

Chinese authorities announced an economic growth goal of “around five percent” for 2023 on Sunday, as the country’s annual rubber-stamp parliament kicked off in Beijing.

The world’s second-largest economy expanded three percent last year, missing its target of around 5.5 percent in the face of stringent Covid policies and a spiraling crisis in the property sector. AFP

Spotify adds video in revamp

SAN FRANCISCO, United States—Spotify on Wednesday introduced new tools for artists and songwriters, with a particular focus on video formats that are seen as increasingly essential as the world’s biggest audio streaming service struggles to break even.

The Swedish-owned company also unveiled a significant revamp to offer a more interactive interface, including the option to hear song previews and provide more personalized recommendations using artificial intelligence.

At a live-streamed marketing event, Spotify also announced that it surpassed 500 million monthly active users, including 205 million paying subscribers at the end of 2022, with 10 million creators.

“When we founded Spotify, the music industry was in a freefall. So the fundamental question everyone was asking was, is the music industry doomed or could it be reimagined and still be a sustainable career for talented artists around the world?” said Spotify founder Daniel Ek.

“And now, more than 15 years later, we know that answer is yes. More and more artists are finding success through streaming,” said Ek who has handed over everyday responsibilities at Spotify to co-presidents Alex Norstrom and Gustav Soderstrom.

The platform, launched in 2006, has quickly become the world’s number one audio streaming service, but has struggled to prove the viability of its business model.

In an attempt to expand beyond music, Spotify in recent years has invested heavily in podcasts, audiobooks, and live audio. AFP

Manila Standard TODAY

A ‘tight’ market

The flux in the wake of the Russian invasion has also strengthened the position of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries.

Burkhard said Saudi Arabia’s spare capacity continues to give the exporters group unique clout.

But the situation has changed significantly compared with late 2016 when the Vienna-based cartel began coordinating policy with Russia.

“Russia today cannot really manage its production because it faces sanctions,” leading to production below Russia’s quota under the “OPEC+” policy, Burkhard said.

“OPEC is still very important, but OPEC+ right now is not what it was before the war,” he said.

The United States’ role in international

markets has also been reinforced.

A worker lls the tank of a vehicle at a petrol station in Cairo on March 2, 2023 as Egypt’s government announced a new increase in fuel prices. AFP sion to not depend on Russian energy for a very long time in Europe,” said Eirik Waerness, chief economist at Equinor. “That will have long-term implications.”

The world’s biggest oil producer, the United States last week set a new record for crude exports of 5.6 million barrels per day, almost twice the level in 2021.

Still, US production has not returned to its pre-pandemic level. Key factors that have weighed on output include the strategy of US shale producers to use excess cash to bolster balance sheets rather than increase capital spending; and shortages of key oilfield materials and personnel.

“The volumes continue to increase, but they could probably have increased even more,” Waerness said of the United States.

Globally, markets continue to feel the effects of the decision by OPEC in October to trim production by two million barrels per day.

“The fundamentals are relatively tight,” Waerness said. “The extra capacity to deliver new supplies into markets, whether we’re talking about gas or oil, is very low.” AFP

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that UNIVERSAL ROBINA CORPORATION, with office address at 8th Floor, Tera Tower, Bridgetowne, E. Rodriguez, Jr. Avenue (C5 Road), Ugong Norte, Quezon City, Metro Manila and plant address at Brgy. Nagasi, La Carlota City, Negros Occidental, is applying for registration with the Board of Investments (BOI) as a New Producer of Liquefied Carbon Dioxide (LC02) at an annual capacity of 18,000 metric tons under “All Qualified Manufacturing Activities including Agro-processing”, Tier I of the 2022 Strategic Investments Priorities Plan (SIPP). Any person with valid objection/s on the above-mentioned project may file his/her objection in writing, under oath, with the BOI within three (3) days from the date of this publication/ posting.

(SGD.) MANUEL J. CRUZ

Acting Director Manufacturing Industries Service 3 COLS X

January manufacturing output surged 10.6% despite high prices

By Julito G. Rada

MANUFACTURING grew at a double-digit rate in the first month of 2023 on optimism about economic reopening despite the offsetting risk factors such as elevated inflation and higher interest rates.

Results of the Philippine Statistics Authority’s Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries on Thursday showed the volume of production index expanded 10.6 percent year-on-year in January, faster than 4.2 percent in December, but slightly slower than 10.9 percent a year ago.

The value of production index also climbed 15.4 percent in January, faster than 9.5 percent in December and 15.1

MPIC eyes share buyback to lift ‘undervalued’ stock—Revilla

By Jenni er B. Austria

INFRASTRUCTURE conglomerate

Metro Pacific Investments Corp. may consider doing another round of share buyback as its stock remains “severely undervalued”, a top executive said.

MPIC chief fi nance offi cer Chaye Cabal-Revilla said in a recent news briefing the company was not getting full valuation even after fully utilizing a P5-billion share repurchase plan.

“With respect to the value of MPIC, obviously it is undervalued at P4.50. If you take a look at market value of Meralco, you are only valuing Meralco at the discounted rate, and everything is free. It is severely undervalued,” Revilla said.

Revilla said the company would discuss its strategy on the share buyback in the next board meetings.

One of the options being considered by MPIC to boost share value is to hold initial public offerings for other subsidiaries in toll road, hospital and water businesses, she said.

Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. seeks to hold an IPO after the completion of major toll road projects, while Maynilad Water Services Inc. plans to conduct a maiden share offering in 2025.

Revilla said MPIC was also getting strong interests from foreign investors. “Yes, we’re getting offers even because infrastructure is relatively stable business. In terms of businesses that we have, they cover the essential services of every Filipino, and also we have strong management pool and from governance perspective we are one of the best in the country. So for any shareholder, your future and investment is good with us,” Revilla said.

Malacañang announced during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent state visit in Japan the Philippines secured a $600-million investment pledge for infrastructure projects from MPIC and Japan’s Mitsui & Co.

Mitsui was earlier reported to have expressed interest in acquiring a 20-percent stake in MPIC.

Revilla said the conglomerate has an existing partnership with Mitsui in power. It also has several partnerships with other Japanese firms for other subsidiaries.

percent in the same period in 2022. The higher growth in the value of production index partly reflected the higher producer price index.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the double-digit expansion in January production was “largely brought about by the fact that the economy further reopened towards greater normalcy, with no large lockdowns so far in 2022 and no lock-

downs going forward as a priority of the administration.”

“The pickup in manufacturing activities in January 2023 also came after the higher number of holidays that somewhat slowed down manufacturing activities in December 2022, as well as offsetting risk factors such as higher inflation, higher interest rates, risk of US recession that are drags on manufacturing activities,” Ricafort said.

Inflation in January soared to a 14-year high of 8.7 percent, prompting monetary authorities to raise the key interest rate on Feb. 16, 2023 by another 50 basis points to 6 percent.

Ricafort said the economic reopening in China would also lead to higher global exports, which could support faster growth of the local manufacturing sector in the coming months.

The PSA attributed the expansion of the volume of production index in January to the annual increases in the indices of food products at 17.3 percent; transport equipment, 24.3 percent; and electrical equipment, 53.6 percent.

The PSA said that based on responding establishments, the average capacity utilization rate for manufacturing sector in January improved to 72.6 percent from 71.5 percent in December.

It said nearly all industry divisions reported capacity utilization rates of more than 60 percent, except for paper and paper products. The top three industry divisions with highest capacity utilization rates were wearing apparel (78.3 percent), machinery and equipment except electrical (77.8 percent) and transport equipment (77.3 percent).

IN BRIEF

PAGCOR terminates Global ComRCI contract

STATE-RUN Philippine Amusement Gaming Corp. said Thursday that after careful investigation and in accordance with the Government Procurement Act, it issued a notice to terminate the consultancy contract with Global ComRCI, the third-party auditor for licensed offshore gaming operations.

PAGCOR said it also endorsed the matter to the Office of the Solicitor General for the possible filing of administrative, civil and criminal cases against Global ComRCI. PAGCOR said it would explore all legal remedies available for the restitution of more than P800 million of the partial amount released to Global ComRCI prior to the assumption of the current administration and damages it had caused to the corporation.

PAGCOR said that since September 2022, the new management had been conducting extensive reviews of existing contracts, including with Global ComRCI. “Upon careful evaluation, PAGCOR has determined the third-party auditor to be in default of its obligations and prima facie evidence to have committed unlawful acts,” it said.

MERALCO’S AWARDS. Manila Electric Co., the country’s largest power distributor, exempli es communication excellence as it emerges as one of the top companies at the Public Relations Society of the Philippines’ Gabi ng Parangal at Marriott Hotel Manila on March 8. Meralco is among the nalists for the Company of the Year and takes home one Gold Anvil and eight Silver Anvils in recognition of its campaigns and programs that light up the way in energy industry, corporate social responsibility and sustainability communications. Leading the Meralco contingent during the awards night is Meralco vice president and head for corporate communications Joe Zaldarriaga.

Australian firm discovers new opportunities in Galoc oil field

By Alena Mae S. Flores

MATAHIO Energy, the majority stakeholder of the Galoc oil field service contract, said it identified new opportunities in the block located offshore northwest Palawan.

“The Galoc field is an important part of Matahio’s growing portfolio. The field’s lifting costs are remarkably low for a latelife offshore field and can provide stable cash flow for many years to come, with the abandonment liability significantly mitigated by an existing abandonment fund,” Matahio Energy chief executive Dr. Wai-Lid Wong said in a statement.

“This cash flow will be used to fund

other acquisitions and organic growth opportunities in the Philippines and across the region,” he said.

Matahio Energy completed two acquisitions that would pave the way for the energy company to build a more significant presence in Southeast Asia. The company acquired NPG Pty. Ltd., which owns a 78.8-percent operating interest in the producing Galoc field.

Matahio also acquired a legal entity that wholly owns the floating production storage and offloading unit Inteprid Balanghai, which is stationed on the Galoc field.

“The Matahio team has always found the Philippines to be a collaborative and sup-

Megaworld starts P98-b Bulacan township project

MEGAWORLD Corp. said Thursday it started the construction of a P98-billion integrated township development in Bulacan province.

portive environment; we are excited to build on our relationship with the Galoc’s Filipino Joint-Venture Partners and the Department of Energy. We are confident we can work together to advance the energy industry in the Philippines,” Wong said. The sale and purchase agreements for both transactions were signed last year. Galoc has produced over 24 million barrels since the first oil flowed in 2008.

Matahio is adding 1.8 million bbl 2P reserves starting January 2023, with net production of 1,200 barrels of oil per day.

“At prevailing oil prices and contemporary OPEX rates, the Galoc field is expected to generate positive cash flow until 2028,” the company said.

Ayala’s energy platform spending up to P70b this year

ACEN Corp., the listed energy platform of the Ayala Group, said Thursday it is looking at capital expenditures of P50 billion to P70 billion in 2023 to support its renewable energy expansion.

ACEN said in a disclosure to the stock exchange it has more than 2,400 megawatts of projects under construction to bring the company closer to achieving 20,000 megawatts in RE capacity by 2030.

This year’s projected capex is higher than the P50.6 billion the company spent in 2022 as it started construction of over 1,300 MW of new solar and wind farms in the Philippines, Australia and India.

New projects under construction include the 520-MW Stubbo Solar farm in Australia, the company’s second

project in the country. With more than 1,000 MW in construction, Australia is ACEN’s largest market outside the Philippines.

“In 2022, the Philippine power sector weathered significant challenges caused by our country’s continued dependence on high-priced coal and unserved power demand, and as a result, we felt the impact of the high cost of power. With 700 MW in new capacity expected to come online in the Philippines by the end of the year and another 521 MW of new capacity commencing operations in Australia, we expect to move into a net-selling merchant position and be on a stronger footing in 2023,” said ACEN president and chief executive Eric Francia.

ACEN has about 4,000 MW of attributable renewables capacity in operation and under construction across the Philippines and the region.

ACEN’s consolidated net income attributable to equity holders of the parent company reached P13.1 billion in 2022, more than double the P5.25 billion it earned in 2021.

The profit included P8.6 billion of net impact in revaluation gains resulting from the company’s full acquisition of the Australia platform and provisions for a Supreme Court decision voiding the Philippine Electricity Market Corp.’s administered/regulated pricing regime in 2013 and for the Lac Hoa & Hoa Dong Wind project in Vietnam. Alena Mae S. Flores

Megaworld said in a statement the 85-hectare Northwin Global City along North Luzon Expressway is envisioned to become Bulacan’s first central business district which will feature corporate buildings, shop houses, hotels and mixed-use commercial towers.

“We are delighted to finally bring our vision for Bulacan’s first-ever global business district to reality here in Northwin Global City. It is both a pleasure and an honor to work together with the provincial government of Bulacan, as well as the two progressive municipalities of Marilao and Bocaue,” said Megaworld chief strategy officer Kevin Tan.

“We hope to be able to add great value to them and their respective constituents by helping create jobs and opportunities as we continue developing Northwin Global City into Bulacan’s very own world-class central business district,” Tan said.

The township will also have several high-rise residential condominiums, including the 23-story 9 Central Park that offers 478 ‘smart home’ units that each come with a wireless smart home system. Other features include a lifestyle mall, educational institutions and curated gardens and parks which will occupy about 40 percent of the entire development. Jenniffer B. Austria

O ice leasing market remains stable—JLL

PROPERTY consultancy JLL Philippines said Thursday that despite headwinds, the office leasing market was relatively stable in 2022.

JLL said in its latest report gross leasing volumes in Metro Manila reached 669,000 square meters in 2022, or 67 percent higher than the 2021 total of 401,000 sq. m. Leasing activities in Metro Cebu were also sustained despite headwinds, with 43,664 sq. m. in the fourth quarter, up from 41,853 sq. m. in the third quarter.

Metro Manila’s office vacancy rose behind weaker leasing demand and new supply, resulting in soft rents. In Metro Cebu, vacancy declined to 17.8 percent.

“There is also supply pressure from incoming stock across sectors in Metro Manila and Metro Cebu,” said JLL Philippines head of research and strategic consulting Janlo de los Reyes. He said around 1.2 million sq. m. of new stock is expected in Metro Manila until 2025, while Metro Cebu may see an additional 194,700 sq. m. Othel B. Campos

DOTr issues order stripping attached agencies of some key functions

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Transportation issued an order stripping its attached agencies in the road and rail sector of some key functions.

It issued Department Order dated Feb. 28, 2023 to take away several important functions away from Metro Rail Transit Line 3, DOTr Regional Offices in Cordillera Autonomous Region and CARAGA, Land Transportation Office, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board and Philippine Railways Institute.

The 13-page order, entitled “Delegation and Delineation of Authorities in the DOTr Central office and its Sectoral Project Management Offices,” specified the scope and limitations in all administrative matters, as well as procurement processes for programs, activities and projects; disbursement and fund under the General Appropriations

Act; and approval of other matters concerning the said offices. The order aims to “ensure an efficient and effective flow of operations, harmonize responsibilities and enhance work efficiency in the department.”

It said that for the attached agencies and offices mentioned, where the approved budget for a contract is above P50 million, they should seek the approval of the undersecretary concerned, and for the most part the undersecretary of administration and finance.

Transactions, including advance payment, billing and fund transfer to agencies where the contract is P50 million and above should be subject to the approval of the DOTr secretary.

Groups said the issuance of the DOTr order might hamper and to some extent delay important government transactions, including the bidding for the production of motor vehicle

license plates, which is carried out by the LTO, bidding for spare parts and trains in MRT-3 and PNR and other vital infrastructure and IT projects of attached agencies.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, however, assured that there would be no delays in the delivery of services to the public.

“We review policies and procedures to implement good governance and practices,” he said. The order also limits the administrative functions of the DOTr’s attached agencies. Instead of giving heads of agencies authority to approve functions such as engaging job order and contract service workers as well as appointment and/or contracts, renewal notice of termination, approval of expiration of contracts, acceptance of resignation and dropping from the rolls, these functions were given to the DOTr central office, specifically to the undersecretary for administration and finance.

WOMEN EMPOWERMENT. Aboitiz Group and SM Supermalls’ SuperMoms Club team up with Connected Women to empower women through technology. Joining the launching of the partnership are (from left) SM Supermalls president Steven Tan, Connected Women founder and head of special projects Gina Romero, Aboitiz Foundation assistant vice president Danny Cerence, Aboitiz Foundation manager Jowelle Ann Cruz, Aboitiz Equity Ventures assistant vice president for media relations Maricar Bautista, Connected Women chief executive Agnes Gervacio and Connected Women co-founder Ruth Yu-Owen.

Filipino chemist lands global partnership for testing services company

CHEMIST Pinky Tobiano recently turned over her testing service company to the international firm, Bureau Veritas Assure Quality.

Bureau Veritas has 160 offices all over the world, with 84,000 employees and a net revenue of EU 8.4 billion in 2021.

Bureau Veritas offers certification and inspection – ISO (International Organization for Standardization), food safety, mining, construction, agriculture and feed mill.

Qualibet Testing Services is the first Filipino testing laboratory to be acquired by a global leader like Bureau Veritas.

Qualibet is a successful, ISO-accredited laboratory that Pinky put up 18 years ago. She is able to help people know the quality of the water they drink, the food they eat and even the cosmetics they use and ensure they are all safe.

A member of the American Chemical Society and the American Association,

Qualibet offers shelf-life analysis on microbiological, chemical and mineral as the consumer guide of the time the food is to be consumed.

Qualibet, which stands for “Quality is Better,” is a trusted facility for safe food, pharmaceutical and veterinary products in the Philippines.

“Through Qualibet, it has been my dream to inspire chemists all over the world,” Pinky said. “Through this new partnership with Bureau Veritas, this dream is now a reality. A time to soar high and pursue greater dreams with this new milestone in my life.”

A Filipino chemist’s dream is now a global voice leading and inspiring scientists all over the world. Pinky made the Philippines very proud as she is part of a global conglomerate giving the Philippines a voice to be heard in the field of Science and Technology. Pinky brought the Filipino voice of scientist to the global paradigm.

They are now called Qualibet-BVAQ (Bureau Veritas Assure Quality), with BV owning 51 percent majority shares and Qualibet has 49 percent shares.

A stellar accomplishment for a Filipino chemist to finally bring the Philippines to a global voice. To date, Pinky has enviably made her mark in the male-dominated industry of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) with her accomplishments in her field.

Present at the turnover ceremony were Joseph Homer Macapagal, chief country executive of Bureau Veritas Philippines; John Pan, group manager BVAQ Southeast Asia; Her Excellency Michelle Boccoz, French Ambassador to the Philippines; Pinky’s dad Julio Tobiano; husband Juan Carlos Robles; and daughters Pianne and Karrel Sinfuego Former Qualibet employee Markki Stroem hosted the event, while Erik Santos was the guest performer who entertained the guests.

Savoring

life’s moments the ‘Ichigo ichie’ way

embrace every experience as if it is your last chance to immerse in it.

Sit and watch things unfold. Our tendency to overthink causes us to lose sight of the beauty of what is in front of us. We have to take time to live in the present and bask in what it has to offer.

Let the present experience amaze you with how blessings will be unveiled.

JUDGING a book by its cover may not be recommended but it surely led me to discover a book find that offered me a life-changing philosophy. The mint green cover with striking red text and eyecatching tea cups made me reach for (and purchase) a copy at a bookstore a few days ago.

Printed in bold font is ICHIGO

CHIE (The Book of Ichigo Ichie: The Art of Making the Most of Every Moment, the Japanese Way).

After getting a grasp of interesting concepts like hygge (Danish philosophy focusing on the quality of coziness and comfortable warmth that fosters a feeling of contentment or well-being), lagom (Swedish philosophy that means “not too much, not too little” or one that aims balance in every life area), and ikigai (Japanese concept that means your 'reason for being), I welcome the additional learning.

There is a wealth of information and applicable tips inside the book but to give you a headstart, ichigo ichie in translation means “Once, a meeting” and also “In this moment, an opportunity.” It brings to mind the idea that every encounter we have in this lifetime is a unique experience that will never happen again in the same way. If we let moments pass us by, they will be lost forever.

Here are my top five takeaways from incorporating ichigo ichie into my life.

Savor moments as if they were your last. The books say, the best moment in your life is always the present. No one is guaranteed the next days, hours, or even minutes. Focus on the now and

Skip distractions. The book shares how an old proverb says that a hunter who aims at two prey at once will kill nothing.

Multitasking sometimes prevents us from appreciating what individual activities have to offer. Ichigo ichie teaches us to do one thing at a time, acting like it is the most important thing in the world. As the book says, when we do that, the thing we are working on eventually turns out to be.

Unload what is not essential.

The book advises that whenever we feel overwhelmed, we need to ask ourselves, “What can I let go of?” We are reminded to travel light in life and remove the burden of carrying things (literally and figuratively) that no longer serve us. I believe this can also be applied to relationships. We need to detach from toxic relationships and people who weigh us down.

Get rid of expectations.

Expectations kill magical moments. That’s how I interpret the book’s recommendation to free ourselves from constantly predicting what will happen next. We need to allow magic to happen anytime.

This can be experienced with an uncluttered mind, the book says. In a beautiful metaphor, expectation is a wrapper that prevents us from seeing our gift.

The moment we let go and let it unfold, we see the beauty of the present.

This is your sign to grab a cup of tea, celebrate the present, and reach for a copy of this easy read by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles

For your random thoughts, e-mail the author at randomrepublika@gmail.com

Attendees of the formal signing of the acquisition (from left) Joseph Homer Macapagal, chief country executive of Bureau Veritas Philippines; Pinky Tobiano, CEO Progressive Laboratories and Qualibet Testing Services; John Pan, group manager BVAQ Southeast Asia

Miss Universe Philippines moves on

‘DickTalk’ impresses audiences in eye-opening excerpt night

This came after the impressive stage preview/excerpt night of the controversial V-Roll Media production, the provocative stage play DickTalk.

THERE’S a new talk of the town and it is breaking stereotypes and revolutionizing conversations on various perspectives surrounding manhood, machismo, and the male genitalia. their bravest performances yet, DickTalk delves into the deep social issues on sexuality and relationships, exposing the complex web of pressures and expectations that shape men’s lives.

Held recently at the Mowelfund Dengcar Theater in Quezon City, the DickTalk preview saw each of the five cast members portraying their unique characters and voicing out their noholds-barred sentiments on manhood and masculinity.

Under the brave direction of Phil Noble and produced by V-Roll Media Ventures and Trifecta Brand Lab, DickTalk will stage ten mind-blowing shows during its limited run at the RCBC Theater from April 15 to 23.

Led by a cast of five fearless actors in

Inspired by the 1996 The Vagina Monologues, DickTalk presents five individual characters who embody the five unique yet highly relatable stories of men – a teenager (Gold Aceron), a trans man (Nil Nodalo), a sex worker (Jake Cuenca), a metrosexual (Mikoy Morales), and an old man (Archi Adamos). These colorful characters were born from the creative minds of the production’s concept creator, Edwin Vinarao, along with writers Ara Vicencio and Benj Cruz Garcia

The creative team molded each character with relatable experiences in a comedic yet insightful way that will open up a space for men to share their stories and explore the full range of their emotions. Whether you're a man, a woman, or anything in between, DickTalk serves as a platform for its viewers to expand their horizons, challenge assumptions, and encourage everyone to join in on the conversation about what it means to be a man in the 21st century. Buy your tickets now at https:// premier.ticketworld.com.ph/, with prices ranging from P2,000 for Balcony, P2,500 for Lodge, P3,050 for Orchestra Side, to P3,650 for Orchestra Center. Be part of a remarkably orgasmic theatrical experience as DickTalk thrusts its way into your hearts (and crotches), cumming this April.

Ten reasons why you shouldn’t miss

'David Foster and Friends,' Live at The Theatre at Solaire

SOLAIRE Resort Entertainment City

celebrates its 10th anniversary with a series of exciting events this month. For music lovers, aside from Sting: My Songs concert, David Foster is coming back to the Philippines with the very first eight-show-residency, David Foster and Friends, Live at The Theatre at Solaire concert from March 21 to 26.

David Foster, the world-famous music icon who has serenaded millions with his chart-topping hit songs is finally back in the Philippines! Here’s a list of the reasons why you shouldn’t miss The Hitman’s concert: He is a multi-decorated Grammy Award winner. David Foster has been collecting Grammy Awards throughout his career. He currently has 16 Grammy Awards including three for Producer of the Year, an Emmy Award, a Golden Globe, and racked up three Oscar nominations for “Best Original Song” on top of his glorious Yamaha piano.

Everything he writes turns into gold. Dubbed as “The Hitman,” this sought-after music genius has his name imprinted on the crowd favorites like “Got To Be Real,” “Glory of Love” “It’s The Falling In Love,” “I Swear,” “You’re The Inspiration,” “Through The Fire,” “Take A Chance,” “I Am Love,” “After The Love Is Gone,” and “Run To You."

A mentor and confidant of the biggest music stars. Foster had worked with the brightest and most talented musicians in the world. He had written and produced music for Christina Aguilera, Seal, Barbra Streisand, Andrea Bocelli, Jennifer Lopez, Michael Bublé’, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Rod Stewart, Madonna, Donna Summer, Olivia Newton-John, Natalie Cole, Josh Groban, Toni Braxton, and Alice Cooper, to name a few.

His talent has a benevolent purpose. Aside from being a successful music maker, David Foster draws his inspiration to do more by helping those in need. Foster established a non-profit charitable organization dedicated to providing financial assistance to Canadian families who are challenged with their non-medical expenses before, during, and after their children’s organ transplants to ensure that they are covered throughout the

recovery stages. He was a real-life prodigy. Born in Victoria, British Columbia, David Foster started learning the piano keys at the age of four and eventually enrolled at the University of Washington for their prestigious music program when he turned 13. From there on, his great career had already bolstered and flourished. At his eight-show-concert, David Foster will be performing with a Yamaha GC1 TA2, officially distributed in the country by Yupangco Music Corporation.

The accomplished musicians defining “Friends” in “David Foster and Friends” concert

Katharine McPhee

One of the

concert guests we are quite excited about is David Foster’s wife, Katharine McPhee. McPhee, American Idol Season 5 runner up is known for her hits “Terrified” and “Over It” will be one of the star soloists performing throughout Foster’s 8-show-residency show at Solaire Resort Entertainment City, Daniel Emmet

With his divine voice, America’s Got Talent Season 13 finalist is set to blow the Filipino audience with his incredible singing talent. A gifted contemporary singer, Emmet has received amazing feedback when he released his first self-titled album in December 2022. His “Unchained Melody” and “You’re the Inspiration” revivals are pieces of heaven playing

in our ears.

Pia Toscano Incredible American Idol Season 10 finalist, Pia Toscano is also joining the star line-up. Famous for her original single, “This Time” and breathtaking renditions of “All by Myself,” “I Have Nothing,” and “Say You Won’t Let Go,” Toscano will dazzle audiences when she lights up the stage with Foster.

MISS Universe Philippines (MUP) has set aside the temporary setback it received from the last Miss Universe pageant. This was the mood prevailing during the recent contract signing between MUP, led by creative director Jonas Gaffud and Kemans, ‘The Queens leveled-up body care,’ a new brand owned by couple CEO Eric ‘Doc Yappy’ and COO Vina Yapjuangco

Gracing the event was the ever-gorgeous Miss Universe Philippines 2022 Celeste Cortesi, stunning in body-hugging orange dress, who showed no trace of her shocking non-inclusion in the Top 16 in New Orleans.

lives,” said Gianna Llanes of Palayan City. “It’s all about women equity and empowerment, about giving everyone what they need to be successful. Women’s Month is dedicated to all the women out there, who should be allowed to speak up and be heard and to give chance to their capabilities,” said exotic beauty Rheema Adakkoden of Camarines Sur. Sofia Galve of Rizal Province said she drew strength from her mother whom she considered her first teacher. “She taught me to always believe in myself, in my capacity and potential in order to succeed in this life.” Search for Male and Female ambassadors on alternative healthcare

The Chiropractic Diplomatic Corps (CDC), led by its CEO Michel “DocMIKE” Tetrault, DC, the leading developer of Chiropractic practice in the Philippines, held a sashing ceremony for Mr. & Ms. Posture Philippines 2023 search, held at Antel 2000 Center Makati.

Organized by CDC, jointly with Mabuhay Health and Chiropractic India, the winners will act as ambassadors on raising awareness about Mabuhay Health Chiropractic, an alternative healthcare known as the Pain Relief Authority

Binibining Pilipinas 2023 candidates at Art in Island

Asked about her immediate plans, Cortesi, who had a guest appearance in ABS-CBN’s Darna, said that she is looking forward to a possible career in showbiz.

An opportune time to celebrate International Women’s Month, the MUP organization has for the first time opened its competition for married women. Binibinis celebrate Women’s Month

Meanwhile, the lovely Binibining Pilipinas 2023 candidates visited the The Art In Island, Media Square, the largest mixed media museum in the Philippines, beside Gateway Mall, in time with the observance of National Women’s Month this March.

Asked about what their thoughts on the celebration, most of the contestants said they were dedicating Women’s Month to their mothers and grandmothers.

“I always believe for women breaking the glass ceiling, and proving that women can do anything. Let’s take this time to really break boundaries, like what my grandma had done. Let’s celebrate these women that have inspired us our entire

(without drugs or surgery).

Aside from being a complete package who can best represent the organization, the candidates will compete in an essay round on the importance of natural healthy lifestyle. They are Alfred Natividad, Asa Agayo, Cirilo Lagnason, Edviro Fuentes, Emerson Gomez, Evangel Monreal, Gavin See-Fil, Jastine Cornejo, Lee Zarate, Joeser Sinfuego, John Paul Gundayao, Julius Paquingan, Mark Joseph Mangampo, Markel Belo Gamboa, Rashid Mir, Raymart Manlangit, Richard Masangkay, Roman Solito, Sandro Cordova, Shawn Khrysler Sulit, Victor Cheng, VR Relosa, Zandro Gomez, Angelica Arwin Camu Evora, Ardian Vienne Casulla, Arvi Hazel Custodio, Ayumi Nicole Cayabyab, Claire Regodon, Dessa Lontayao, Elena Cocal, Erlinda Maasab Starbright, Grayzel Catipay, Hanna Michaela Amistad, Jhenice Balabis, Justin Mae Gaspi, Kaithlyn Landicho, Katrina Claudia Jamin, Lianne Elizabeth Duque, Nicole Grencio, Nicole Parayno, Patricia Mae Araneta, Resalina Toledo, Rose Jean Sanglap, and Seannel Adderrie Cruz.

…are talking about PEOPLE

Barbie Forteza

EVEN though Maria Clara at Ibarra ended, fans of the show remain amused with Barbie’s antics online. Aside from her relatable responses and expressions during her interview in Fast Talk with Boy Abunda, her recent comment on her boyfriend Jak Roberto’s photo drew laughs from netizens. While her love team with David Licauco became famous, she maintains that she’sfaithful and content with Jak.

Dominique Cojuangco

WEDDINGS are an intimate event, but when notable celebrities hold receptions in what usually are public spaces, people tend to notice it more. When Dominique married businessman Michael Hearn, they had an elegant reception at the National Museum. Although kept private, social media posts from their guests gave the public a glimpse of the nuptials. It was like peering inside a fairytale as the bride looked radiant in her wedding gown, surrounded by an equally elegant setup.

…are not talking about

‘Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho’

Martin Nievera

A Filipino pride and Solaire Resort ambassador, Martin Nievera will grace the stage of The Theatre at Solaire with David Foster.

The Philippine Concert King is expected to sing Foster’s hits on the Morissette

“This Time” and Have Nothing,” King sing concert nights.

THE quiet of the Filipino K-pop community was disturbed after a controversial episode of Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho aired. They hated the stigma of portraying K-pop merch collectors as toxic and irrational. But when their cherished photocards became the target of pickpockets to make a quick buck, their safety also became endangered. Now, they’re uncovering the truth behind the said episode and how it affects the perception of their community. There’s no besting K-pop stans when it comes to research.

Erik Matti

AFTER calling out award-winning actor John Arcilla for not mentioning On The Job: The Missing 8 in his Instagram posts, the director still isn’t amused with how the actor made amends—by tagging Erik on nearly every post as possible. Erik claims the messages are for damage control and are sarcastic, insulting, and condescending. On

Morissette. Dubbed as Asia’s Phoenix, Morissette will surely give Foster’s hits a different flavor, alluring the audience as always with her superb performances.

To complete the incredible set of singers of “David Foster and Friends” concert, The Voice of the Philippines’ finalist, Morissette. Dubbed as Asia’s Phoenix, Morissette will surely give Foster’s hits a different flavor, alluring the audience as always with her superb performances.

From left: Archi Adamos, Mikoy Morales, Jake Cuenca, Nil Nodalo, and Gold Aceron

Worldfamous icon David Foster

Hofmann nails 3rd division title at URCC

TWO-DIVISION champion Chris Valdez Hofmann of the Philippines took his third division title, dethroning Min Seok Kim of South Korea to grab the welterweight belt of the Universal Reality Combat Championship 83 Global “Bloodline” fight night held recently at the Zamboanga Del Norte Convention Center in Dapitan City.

Hofmann, regarded as the Manny Pacquiao of mixed martial arts, displayed true grit and power punches to put the Korean fighter to the canvas as the visitor yielded in an RSC (referee-stopped-contest) to the delight of jampacked local MMA enthusiasts and tourists as well.

“This belt is so special. My opponent is very tough, but I came here well prepared and determined to wrest another belt. This is for our kababayans, especially Zamboanguenos,” said Hofmann, who acknowledged URCC chief Alvin Aguilar and Mayor Seth ‘Bullet’ Jalosjos for bringing the historic event to Dapitan City, where national hero Dr. Jose Rizal spent his four-year exile.

Before the blockbuster bout, Mayor Jalosjos organized a tour for Team URCC as they visited significant locations related to Dr. Rizal’s exile during the Spanish colonial period.

They explored the Rizal Shrine, which features a museum filled with artifacts from Rizal’s time in Dapitan, as well as the Casa Real, which was the former seat of government during the Spanish era.

As part of the heritage tour organized by the Dapitan City Government, the URCC team was also brought to Balay Hamoy, the residence of Jose Rizal’s closest friend. During the tour, Britz Hamoy personally guided the team.

Alcaraz eyes Indian Wells net crown, return to no. 1

INDIAN WELLS—Top-seeded Carlos Alcaraz can replace Novak Djokovic with a victory at the Indian Wells ATP Masters, and the 19-year-old Spaniard says he’ll give it all he’s got.

“I’m gonna go for it,” Alcaraz said Wednesday as first-round matches got under way in the California desert.

Alcaraz is chasing a third prestigious Masters 1000 title, and if he’s successful he’d be just the second player, after compatriot Rafael Nadal, to bag three as a teenager.

The young star will face stiff opposition in former world number one Daniil Medvedev, who rolls into Indian Wells having won three straight tournaments at Rotterdam, Doha and Dubai.

Some gloss is gone with Djokovic, who won a 22nd Grand Slam title at the Australian Open this year, absent because of US restrictions on noncitizens who have not been vaccinated against Covid-19.

Injury forced Nadal out, but eight of the top 10 men in the world are here, including third-ranked Stefanos Tsitsipas —runner-up to Djokovic in Melbourne —and fourth-ranked Casper Ruud.

Defending champion Taylor Fritz of the United States is seeded fourth ahead of Medvedev. Fritz beat Nadal in a dramatic final last year to become the first American to win the men’s title in Indian Wells since Andre Agassi in 2001. His current No. 5 in the world rankings makes him the highest-ranked US man since Andy Roddick reached number five in September of 2009.

“Of course there’s a lot of great players in this draw who have a chance to win the tournament, but I say that I

Huskers face Mascuvados in 5th season MPBL opener

THE Quezon Huskers might be a new team, but coach Eric Gonzales feels something special about the team which makes its debut against fellow newbie Negros Mascuvados in the 5th season opening of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League on Saturday at the Lucena Convention Center in Lucena City.

“It’s a tough task, but the way I see it everything has a room for improvement. One game at a time, let’s see how we fare against our opponents. Making it to the quarterfinals, malaking bagay na siyempre sa team,” said the 57-yearold veteran coach who used to mentor GlobalPort in the PBA and the Terrence Romeo-led Far Eastern University team to the 2013 UAAP Championship.

Gonzales stressed that the Huskers are made up of former Gilas junior standouts, former PBA mainstays and homegrown players, led by Lucena City’s pride Topeng Lagrama.

“I called tryouts for the team, almost 100 players ang dumating. But someone told me that there is one player here (Topeneng Lagrama), who will really give the team leadership and be a crowd-drawer for the province of Quezon,” said Gonzales during the team’s official launching on Wednesday at the old Capitol building of the Quezon City Government.

have my chances to win the tournament,” Alcaraz said.

“For me winning the tournament and being number one again is a really good goal.”

Alcaraz downplayed any lingering injury fears after pulling out of the ATP 500 in Acapulco last week with a right hamstring strain.

Alcaraz had been clearly hindered in falling to Cameron Norrie in the Rio Open on February 26, although he’d beaten Norrie seven days earlier in the final at Buenos Aires.

Alcaraz’s South American run followed a four-month injury layoff, during which he missed the Paris Masters with an abdominal tear and the Australian Open with a hamstring injury.

However, Alcaraz said he wasn’t overly concerned about the spate of injuries.

“I’m not worried about it at all,” Alcaraz said, adding that he thought it was largely a matter of “bad luck.”

2 PH titles at stake in ‘Bakbakan sa Montalban’

BOXING returns to Rodriguez, Rizal with two titles at stake as the town celebrates its 152nd anniversary next month.

Dubbed as “Bakbakan sa Montalban”, the stacked fight card will feature Bacolod City native Romel

“Smooth Operator” Oliveros as he takes on Jestine “Golden Punch” Tesoro for the vacant Philippine Boxing Federation featherweight crown in 10 rounds on April 29, 2023 at the Montalban Sports Center in Barangay San Jose in Rodriguez, Rizal.

Oliveros, fighting for Elorde Stable

in Paranaque City, is expected to have his hand full against Tesoro who is representing Hardstone Boxing Stable of Bangar, La Union.

In the co-main event, another Elorde standout Ricardo “Smiley” Sueno from Negros Occidental will battle Reymark “Lucky Boy” Alicaba of Digos City in another 10-rounder for the vacant PBF flyweight title.

Organized by Quezon City-based CCAB Management Consultancy and Event Production of CPA Bong Corpuz, in coordination with Rodriguez Sports Development, Tourism and Cultural Affairs Offices,

Etheridge to lead Azkals vs Kuwait, Jordan

Al-Azraq and The Chivalrous Ones a good fight.

There were at least 22 names on the initial list, but according to Schrock there will be some last-minute changes.

LOCAL-BASED Philippine Azkals are expected to arrive in Kuwait on March 20, 2023 to join the other players coming from different leagues in Europe and in Southeast Asia for the friendly against Kuwait on the 24th.

At least 25 to 26 players were invited to join the squad that will also face Jordan in Doha, Qatar on March 28. The team is expected to arrive in Doha on the 25th and will have at least two days to train for the tune-up against Jordan. The official announcement will come, naturally, from the Philippine Football Federation, but Azkals’ management has been in contact with players for the last two weeks regarding their availability.

Former Azkals’ captain and Pinoy football icon Stephan Schrock will join the team as part of the coaching staff. While he can’t mention yet who were invited, he said they are hoping to assemble a team strong enough to give the

“Some of them were injured, others are negotiating contract extensions with their clubs and others are fighting relegation in their leagues. We have to wait until this week to know the status of the last five names on the list. Offhand, it’s a good mix of veteran Azkals and young ones,” Schrock said. Schrock added they prepared for a bigger pool knowing that injuries and availability are always big concerns.

“But definitely I can tell you that we invited Neil (Etheridge) and he greenlighted so far. We are hoping that he will be injury-free and nothing unfortunate will happen,” Schrock revealed. Three more names were added to the list, who are considered mainstays in the team. Details are being finalized if they can join the squad. As of now, three big names are officially out of the squad.

“The guys we are targeting are recovering from their injuries. There is no secret that Gerrit (Holtman) had a surgery on his knee a few weeks back. (Jens) Rasmussen is resting and recovering

from a hamstring injury, while Rapahel Obermair is tied with his club so he has to pass on the friendlies, unfortunately. On the bright side, these developments have given others the opportunity to step up for the national team,” Schrock explained. “We always strive to assemble the best possible squad.”

More often than not, the Azkals always had to struggle even before stepping on the pitch against opponents whether in official tournaments or tuneup games. Calling and eventually bringing the best Azkals together, among other things, will always be a challenge. This is just the initial, but crucial stage in the team’s preparations. In an ideal setup, this shouldn’t be the case.

The team tried to form its core with young and local-based Azkals in its last tournament, but results were wanting. The games against Kuwait and Jordan are just tune-ups; the results, however, will matter most to the Azkals, to their fans and to their relevance in the country’s football consciousness now being dominated by their female counterparts. Here’s hoping that they will make good in the Middle East.

Some good news in Montalban. At least two titles will be at stake in the forthcoming “Bakbakan sa Montalban”

Batang Relok Organization Inc., and the local boxing promoter Legal na Kamao and sanctioned by the Games Amusement Board, the boxing promotion is part of the w eek-long celebration of the founding anniversary of the municipality.

It will be the first professional boxing event ever set at the football and track oval of the Montalban Sports Center.

on April 29, 2023 at the Montalban Sports Center in San Jose, Rodriguez, Rizal.

Organized by good friend and schoolmate Bong Corpuz in cooperation with the local government of Rodriguez and sanctioned by the Games and Amusement Board, the slugfest is among the featured events for the week-long celebration of 152nd anniversary of “Araw ng Montalban.”

Romel “Smooth Operator ” Oliveros of the fabled Bebot Elorde stable will go up against Davao del Sur’s Jestine “Golden Punch” Tesoro for the vacant Philippine Boxing Federation (PBF) featherweight title in the comain event.

Ricardo “Smiley” Sueno, on the other hand, will tangle against Reymark “Lucky Boy” Alicaba for the vacant PBF flyweight title in the other title match.

“Aside from supporting local boxing and to give our upcoming boxers a venue to showcase our talents, we also want to promote fitness and sports in our advocacy Iwas Droga. Hopefully, this event will spur more boxing promotions in the country in the coming months,” Corpuz said.

Seven other preliminary bouts complete the nine fight card. Admission to “Bakbakan sa Montalban” is free.

“There is more to Montalban other

Quezon Province Gov. Dr. Angelina ‘Helen’ Tan expressed the full support of the province for the team which she said will be part of Quezon’s promotion program to further strengthen sports tourism and introduce Quezon as a progressive province in Southern Luzon and the entire country.

“With the help of our friends from the private sector, the office of the Mayor of Lucena and the 4th District of the province, we supported the formation and participation of the team in the MPBL as a way to help us in promoting the beauty and the culture of the Quezon province. Because many people, when asked where you are from, when they answer from Quezon, they seem to be lost, they don’t know our province. With this, you can now recognize our province and may soon visit us for sight-seeing and vacation,” said Gov. Tan at the said media launch which was also attended by Lucena City Mayor Mark Victor Alcala and team manager Don Kapunan.

than quarrying. Our town is a good place to promote tourism and create more investment opportunities,” Corpuz added. Speaking of events, please visit the biggest automotive event of the year in Region 4A. Dubbed as Accelebrate CALABARZON Motor Show 2023, it opens today until Sunday, March 12 at the Activity Park, Atrium and Parking of the Ayala Malls-Solenad Nuvali in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

For those who want to compete and at the same time visit the sights, sounds and taste of Ilocandia, the 9th TINMAN Triathlon is set to unfold on March 18 and 19 in Currimao, Ilocos Norte. For more details, please send your queries to trisports.solutions@gmail.com.

Please don’t forget to watch and tune in this Sunday, February 12, 2023 from 2 to 3 p.m. for another interesting discussion at 3PTS–Pambansang Tambayan ng Sports over DZME 1530 khz. Dylan Valmores and March Alexander Lim, gold and bronze medalists in the recent 7th Asian Jiu Jitsu held in Bangkok, Thailand will join us on the show. Rhayan Cruz, President of LGR Hoops will also be featured in the episode. 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

Carlos Alcaraz of Spain attends media interviews during the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California. AFP

Jestin Tesoro Romel Oliveros

PRICKED by Akari’s surprise surge in the third set, Petro Gazz re-imposed its will and strength early in the fourth frame and went on to formalize its stint in the semifinals with a 25-15, 25-19, 2225, 25-16 victory in the Premier Volleyball League All Filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig yesterday. Grethcel Soltones bounced back from a paltry six-point showing against the Army Lady Troopers last weekend with a 20-point explosion while Aiza Pontillas added 15 markers, Remy Palma scored 13 points and Jonah Sabete and MJ Phillips put in 11 and 10 hits, respectively, as the Angels needed to toughen up to repulse the fired-up Chargers.

Fan artwork bears Jaworski name written a million times

By Randy Caluag

ADIEHARD fan, Danilo Coma from Pampanga, honored former Philippine Basketball Association superstar and senator Robert “Sonny” Jaworski with a million handwritten “Jawo” words in an art work as a gift on the cage icon’s 77th birthday on Wednesday.

“Nabuo na ang history sa lahat ng panahon, a million Jawo words, si idol Big J lang ang meron nito. At sinobrahan ko pa, for sure na siguradong One Million Jawo words. Ang buong total ay 1,007,777,” Coma said.

The fan also fervently wishes for the complete healing of his idol so he can see his efforts.

Filipino fans like Coma have grown to love the PBA legend not only due to his cage exploits, but also because of his work outside the basketball court.

Desiree Guasch, Jaworki’s former staff at the Senate, where he served from 1998 to 2004, recalled that Jaworski was active in the Environment Committee

and that he traveled a lot and reached remote areas to check on erring companies.

“Tatlong cement companies napasara niya,” said Guasch, referring to firms that discharge waste products, causing adverse effects to the environment.

At one time, Jaworski visited a victim of toxic waste emission at the hospital in 1999. The young man, who

was a basketball fan, recognized Jaworski and was delighted to see the former Ginebra mentor, who asked the victim what gift would make him happy.

The man requested a Nike Kobe Bryant shoe model and got his wish.

As Ginebra’s playing coach, Jaworski was known to accommodate fans’ requests for autographs and pictures, even if he was the last player to leave the playing venue or when the lights were already turned off.

“Happy birthday to the Living Legend Jawo! May God lay His healing hand upon you and grant your fervent wish. Thank you for being so kind and accommodating to us, your fans. I can still remember when we watched your team play, you went out of the dugout just to entertain us, talked to us, and thanked us for our support to the team. I love you, Jawo,” said Rosemary Ang, in a comment to the post of Jaworki’s son Dodot.

Dodot posted: “Maligayang kaarawan sa aking Daddy na nagturo sa akin paano magmahal, tumayo sa pagkakadapa, at makidama sa mga nangangailangan. Mula pa noon, ikaw ang aking inspirasyon na maging mabuting ama, kaibigan, at lingkod-bayan na magsisilbi sa mga Pilipino nang may puso at katapatan. I am always proud to be called your son.”

Jaworski’s other son, Ryan, also made an emotional post. “Happy Happy Birthday Dad. We love you so much. Claiming complete restoration and healing in Jesus’ Mighty name. I love you Dad.”

Zamboanga returns to action vs. Mezabarba at ONE Fight Night 9

DENICE “The Menace” Zamboanga is wasting no time as she continues to chase the ONE Atomweight World Title.

The third-ranked contender makes her return to ONE Championship when she takes on Julie Mezabarba at ONE Fight Night 9: Nong-O vs. Haggerty on April 22 inside Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

Zamboanga has remained one of the country’s top representatives in mixed martial arts, occupying ONE’s atomweight top five since 2020.

“The Menace” reached as far as the top contender spot after beating Jihin Radzuan and Mei Yamaguchi.

Zamboanga continued to take names, decimating Watsapinya Kaewkhong to continue her red-hot streak inside the ONE Circle. She did find a brick wall in her career, losing a controversial decision to Ham Seo Hee before once again faltering in their rematch.

But Zamboanga never got discouraged. Instead, she used it as fuel for her next conquests, which started last December when she dominated Lin Heqin in the Philippines.

If she can handle the tough Mezabarba, then she’ll once again hover around the World Championship category, but it won’t be easy. The well-rounded Brazilian is com-

ing off tough back-to-back losses to Stamp Fairtex and Jenelyn Olsim, and she wants nothing more than to return to winning ways and live up to the potential that many saw when she dominated Yamaguchi in her debut.

Zamboanga and Mezabarba will be joining what’s expected to be another loaded card bannered by the ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Title clash between Nong-O Hama and Jonathan “The General” Haggerty in the main event.

Catch all the ONE Championship action by downloading the ONE Super App.

Smart, MOONTON Games gear up for stronger PH esports scene as partners for Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Tournament

STRENGTHENING its position as a patron of Philippine esports, mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. has announced the extension of its partnership with international gaming developer and publisher MOONTON Games to be the official local telco partner for the upcoming 2023 Mobile Legends: Bang Bang tournaments.

Now on its sixth consecutive year, Smart’s partnership with MOONTON Games includes the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League – Philippines (MPL-PH) Seasons 11 and 12 set to happen this February and August, respectively; Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Southeast Asia Cup (MSC) in June; and the much-awaited M5 World Championship, which will take place in the country in the last quarter of the year.

Smart is also the official local telco partner for the newly added league, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Development League - Philippines (MDL-PH), the official amateur tournament league for esports players. This will serve as a breeding ground for promising amateur players to

further bolster the dominance of the region in the esports scene.

“Smart has always believed in the talent and skill of Filipino esport athletes. Through our partnership with MOONTON Games, we aim to continue empowering them and further inspire others to level up their gameplay and make the most of every gaming moment, powered by the Philippines’ fastest and best mobile network,” said Francis E. Flores, SVP and Head of Consumer Business Group – Individual at Smart.

We thank Smart for our meaningful partnership for six years. They have been supporting the growth and sustainability of esports and we are happy to be partnering once again to elevate the gaming and streaming experience of Filipinos,” said Tonyo Silva, MOONTON Games Senior Marketing Manager.

MPL Season 11 & MDL Season 1

Smart’s partnership kicked off this February with the start of the regular season MPL-PH Season 11 last Feb. 17 and the debut of the new tournament, MDL-PH Season 1 last Feb. 15.

The MPL-PH Season 11 featured 8 franchise teams - Blacklist International, Bren Esports, ECHO, Nexplay EVOS, ONIC Philippines, RSG Philippines, Smart Omega, and TNC Pro Team.

On the other hand, MDL Season 1 featured 10 rookie teams including Gamelab, the grand champion of the recently concluded Smart League Tournament. They will be joined by Blacklist Academy, ZOL Esports, ECHO Proud, ONIC Arsenals, RSG Ignite, Smart Omega Neos, BREN x Euphoria Esports, Nexplay EVOS Tiger Cub and TNC Neo.

The victory was Petro Gazz’s fifth against two wins as it tied idle F2 Logistics at second behind first semifinalist Creamline (6-1). But the Angels clinched the next Final Four seat even if they drop their last game to the Chery Tiggo Crossovers next Tuesday in Iloilo City as they have amassed superior tiebreak points over the other semis contenders.

“That’s our realistic goal, to be in the semifinals first. Sabi nga namin, we’ll work hard to reach that (goal) and then let’s take it from there,” said Petro Gazz coach Oliver Almadro. “And if the Lord will give us the opportunity to be in the finals, we’ll be happy.”

The Cargo Movers, on the other hand, must win over the Lady Troopers tomorrow to nail the third semis slot.

The Angels poised themselves for a sweep of the Chargers with convincing wins in the first two frames but the latter stunned the 2022 Open Conference runners-up with a fast start in the third, seizing an 8-3 lead. The Angels did tie the count at 12 but the Chargers proved far from being finished, moving to set point at 24-21 on Janine Marciano’s back-to-back kills before snaring the win on a Krich Macaslang attack.

Meanwhile, Soltones delivered 16 attack points and four aces and spiked her gamelong brilliance with 12 excellent receptions. But it was Phillips who anchored the Angels’ fourth-set romp, scoring on a quick play before foiling Camille Victoria upfront to help stretch Petro Gazz’s lead to 19-11.

Passi hosts entertaining, competitive All-Star ti

PASSI CITY—It’s going to be an entertaining, but competitive PBA AllStar game that’s in store for the fans this weekend.

Coaches of Team Greats and Team Stalwarts both vowed to give each other a good fight as they serve as front act for the All-Star Weekend that returns to the scene after a three-year absence starting on Friday at the City Of Passi Arena.

Team Stalwarts coach Caloy Garcia said he’ll make sure his players led by Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser will not turn their game against Team Greats into a virtual shootout, as he puts an emphasis on making things more competitive in the 5:45 p.m. match up.

“We just want to have fun, and at the same time, we want to compete,” said Garcia during the press conference th at followed the arrival of the main bulk of the All-Star delegation on Thursday in this city located in the heart of Panay.

“We’re going to make sure that you will get your money’s worth, and we’ll make the players know that it’s not about them. It’s about the fans this time,” added Team Greats’ coach Richard Del Rosario, whose roster will be bannered by no. 2 pick Justin Arana.

The game features Rookie, Sophomore, and Junior players voted by fans and divided into two teams.

The main All-Star game meanwhile, pits Team Scottie against Team Japeth, whose players will play not only for bragging rights, but for a certain amount of prize money as well in the showcase that revised its format for this year.

Petro Gazz’s Grethcel Soltones (left) bounced back from a paltry six-point showing against the Army Lady Troopers last weekend with a 20-point explosion.

Angels repel Chargers, gain PVL semis seat

Denice Zamboanga

Danilo Coma from Pampanga shows the one million “Jawo” words on an art work dedicated to his idol, Robert “Sonny” Jaworski.