Manila Standard - 2023 March 31 - Friday

By Maricel V. Cruz and Rey E. Requejo

JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Thursday said 9 of the 10 suspects in the custody of the National Bureau of Investigation have already issued statements linking Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Arnolfo A. Teves to Governor Roel Degamo’s murder last March 4. But Remulla said he would leave it up to the panel of prosecutors of the

Department of Justice to decide whether to include Teves among those to be indicted for the crime.

This developed as Speaker Martin G. Romualdez has taken upon himself the responsibility of looking out for the interests of the people of the 3rd District of Negros Oriental by temporarily acting as their legislative caretaker.

The Philippine National Police has also pieced together almost the entire story behind the killing of Degamo, the PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo told a GMA News program.

Basilan ferry fire death toll: 31

3 kids—including 6-month-old baby—among dead, 230 others rescued

By Charles Dantes

AT LEAST 31 people died and 230 were rescued after a fire engulfed a ferry off Basilan province, authorities said Thursday.

The Lady Mary Joy 3 was traveling from Zamboanga City to Jolo Island in Sulu province when the fire broke out late Wednesday, prompting passengers to jump overboard, disaster officer Nixon Alonzo said.

The Philippines, an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, is plagued by poor sea transport, with its badly regulated ferries prone to overcrowding and accidents.

It is also the second serious maritime disaster within a month, following the sinking of the motor tanker Princess Empress off the coast of Oriental Mindoro which is causing an economic and environmental crisis in the provinces along the important Verde Island Passage (see related story below – Editors). Rescuers, including the Philippine Coast Guard

via FB

PH, China set to restart joint oil exploration talks

By Rey E. Requejo

and Charles Dantes

FOREIGN Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo on Thursday said the Philippines

and China are set to resume talks on a possible joint venture for oil and gas exploration in the West Philippine Sea. Manalo’s announcement came as the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported

the presence of 20 Chinese and Vietnamese vessels in the waters around Sabina and Ayungin Shoals, and Pag-asa Island in Palawan. The ships, spotted by the BRP

Malapascua during a maritime patrol in the Kalayaan Island Group from March 16 to 21, included two Chinese Coast Guard vessels and a People’s Liberation Army Navy ship.

Or. Mindoro to be placed under state of calamity amid oil spill

By Othel V. Campos

THE entire province of Oriental Mindoro will be placed under a state of calamity, Governor Humerlito “Bonz” Dolor said Thursday, as it continues to suffer the effects of the massive oil spill from the tanker that sank off the coast of Naujan town last month.

ARRIVAL HONORS.

DOJ revising ‘departure formalities’

The Justice Department explained that

“Last night, based on the latest report I got from the DOH (Department of Health) and the DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources), I asked our PDRRMO (Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office) to prepare their recommendation to declare a state of calamity in the whole province,

PBBM reaffirms PH commitment to fight impunity

By Vince Lopez and Macon Ramos-Araneta

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday said the rule of law prevails in the Philippines and its criminal justice system is functioning fully.

In a video message during the plenary session of the Second Session for Summit for Democracy, Mr. Marcos said the Philippines has been committed to fighting impunity for atrocities despite the country's withdrawal from the Rome Statute in 2019.

Mr. Marcos made the remark following

Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez salutes the troops as he walks with Philippine Air Force Commander Lt. Gen. Stephen Parreño during arrival honors at the Mactan Air Force Base in Cebu Thursday. Romualdez is in Cebu to attend the House of Representatives-Armed Forces of the Philippines Fellowship Series Visayas Leg. Ver Noveno

NEW ‘AMBASSADOR.’ President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. hands the Global Tourism Ambassador Award to Filipino-American actress Vanessa Anne Hudgens during a courtesy call at the Palace on Thursday (see story on

Photo

CHARRED REMAINS. This handout picture taken on

and released by the Philippine Coast Guard shows a PCG ship spraying water on fire onboard the Lady Mary Joy 3 during a search and rescue operation in waters off Baluk-Baluk Island in Basilan. Hadji Muhtamad Mayor Arsina Kahing-Nanoh

OTS: No banned items at airports

By Joel E. Zurbano

AUTHORITIES on Thursday reminded air travelers not to bring guns, bullets, and other banned items to airports for faster processing and prevent long lines at the screening checkpoints.

The Office for Transportation Security made the reminder to ensure passengers’ safety and convenience in time for the observance of Lent.

OTS administrator Usec. Ma. O Aplasca urged passengers to personally pack their bags and ensure that it does not contain any prohibited items to avoid unnecessary delays at the screening checkpoint.

Basilan...

From A1 and fishermen, saved 195 passengers and 35 crew as the blaze ripped through the ferry off Baluk-Baluk Island in Basilan.

Basilan Governor Jim Salliman said 31 bodies had been retrieved, including 18 found inside an air-conditioned cabin.

Photos released by the coast guard showed one of its vessels sprayingwater on the burning ferry as personnel in smaller boats plucked people from the dark water.

Firefighter Jayson Ahijon, who was among the passengers, said peoplepanicked as fire and thick smoke overwhelmed the vessel.

Some jumped overboard before putting on life jackets.

"It's beyond my imagination, the fire was spreading so fast," Ahijon, 36, said.

Ahijon said he and several coast guard officers helped other passengers to safety, including a baby they put in a bucket and lowered over the side of the boat.

The captain ran the vessel aground

9 out...

From A1

In the latest episode of "The Mangahas Interviews," Fajardo said the PNP was just waiting for the filing of the appropriate cases against the masterminds behind the attack on the local chief executive.

“In the interest of the people of the 3rd District of Negros Oriental, the undersigned shall act as the Legislative Caretaker of the 3rd District of Negros Oriental for the period 23 March 2023 to 22 May 2023. This order takes effect immediately,” Romualdez said in a memorandum order he issued.

The leader of the House of Representatives traditionally namescaretakers for districts not represented in the chamber due to various reasons, including the appointment to a Cabinet position, suspension, or expul-

PH,...

From A1

The PCG said that it issued multiple radio challenges to the vessels but got no response.

On March 21, China Coast Guard vessel 5201 shadowed BRP Malapascua as it was patrolling Ayungin Shoal.

The incident has been reported to the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS), the PCG said.

Manalo said the exploratory talks would begin on a technical level in about six weeks.

He said it was Beijing that proposed the talks on oil and gas,focusing on the terms of reference.

Manalo said the Philippine government's position would be guided by the Constitution, which will serve as the guiding principle in the negotiations.

“In any negotiations we undertake on oil and gas, the Philippineposition has always been that we will be guided by the constitutionalrequirements and that’s how we will proceed in the next round,” Manalo said.

In November 2018, the Philippines and China signed a memorandum ofunderstanding (MOU) with both sides agreeing to establish an intergovernmental

PBBM...

From A1 his latest pronouncement that the Philippines is “disengaging” from any contact and communication with the International Criminal Court (ICC) after it rejected the country’s request to suspend its ongoing investigation into former President Rodrigo Duterte's drug war.

Also on Thursday, Senator Ronald dela Rosa—who led Duterte’s bloodywar on drugs as chief of the Philippine National Police—said candidate Marcos had promised him that the ICC would not touch a single strand of his hair—even though he was bald.

The senator said he took this not only as a personal promise but a commitment to the country that he will defend the Philippine sovereignty.

Senators associated with Duterte accused the ICC of bullying the Philippines.

Senator Robin Padilla on Thursday said he would join former President Duterte and

“Once again, we would like to remind passengers to personally pack their bags, and be smart travelers by checking on the OTS prohibited items list before your scheduled flight. It’s posted on our website and our social media platforms so that these items will not be confiscated anymore. Our tip is that, if you don’t need it, then just leave it at home,”

as the fire spread "so many morecould survive since it would be easier to swim to shore," Commodore Rejard Marfe from the Philippine Coast Guard told AFP.

Salliman said at least three children, including a six-month-old baby, were among the dead. Authorities also said 14 people were injured.

It is not clear how many people are still missing. Salliman said the number of passengers on the vessel exceeded the 205 listed in the ship's manifest, but a PCG official said the vessel only had 205 reported travelers and 35 crew members.

In a report, Coast Guard District South-Western Mindanao commander Commodore Marco Antonio Gines said the fire allegedly broke out at the accommodation area on the second deck of the vessel, stressing they had not conducted a full investigation into the fire nor could they confirm what caused it.

Gines also clarified the vessel was not overloaded with passengers.

Marfe said four members of the coast guard and an unknown number of army

sion of a member.

Teves was slapped a 60-day suspension for defying a House order or him to return to the Philippines and face murder charges filed against him.

Aside from these charges, Teves has also been linked to the murder of Degamo and eight others, who were shot by assassins at the governor’s home in Pamplona town. Degamo, documents showed, had been cleared of graft charges by the Supreme Court just days before he was shot dead.

The charges were in connection with the alleged misuse of provincial calamity funds amounting to P143.2 million in 2012.

Teves, who was last reported to be in the United States for supposed medical treatment, had refused to come back home claiming there are serious threats to his life.

Romualdez has repeatedly pleaded with

joint steering committee to look into possible energy cooperation.

The MOU also provides that a working group from each of the countries"will consist of representatives from enterprises authorized by the two governments."

However, in 2022, during the last months of the Duterte administration, the Philippines ordered the termination of the discussions with China, citing constitutional constraints and issues on the country’s sovereignty.

Reports showed that the West Philippine Sea, particularly near Reed Bank, is rich in natural resources such as oil and gas.

Meanwhile, Manalo said a final agreement on the Code of Conduct (COC) of the South China Sea between China, the Philippines, and other ASEAN countries was still far off.

“There are so many issues to look at here because this concerns how to manage incidents occurring at sea,” he said.

“You need all the countries to agree and that alone takes time. And then of course you have the bigger issues too, and political issues, whether the Code will be legally binding or not we’re not yet there,” Manalo said.

The COC is aimed at preventing future tensions and conflict among the claimant countries in the South China Sea.

Dela Rosa if they will be jailed by the ICC.

The former movie star was once convicted and sentenced to eight years in jail for illegal possession of firearms but was pardoned by President Fidel V. Ramos after four years. Duterte later gave Padilla a full pardon to endow him with full civil and political rights.

While the Philippines has its own justice system, Padilla said he finds it insulting that the ICC will investigate the country’s drug war, which could mean that "we are stupid."

Meanwhile, Mr. Marcos said: “We continue to improve mechanisms such as the AO35 inter-agency committee to enhance accountability. The Philippines’ commitment to fight impunity for atrocity crimes is solid and unwavering, notwithstanding the withdrawal of the country from the Rome Statute.”

“The Philippines has a national legislation punishing heinous crimes.

We have vigorously exercised our jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute

Aplasca said. OTS spokesperson Kim Marquez said sharp objects and other items such as baseball bats, baton sticks, tennis and badminton rackets, or billiard sticks are also prohibited from being carried in carry-on bags, and can only be placed in checked baggage.

Meanwhile, the Manila International Airport Authority will conduct intensive security screening and passenger assistance operations toensure secured, reliable, convenient, and uninterrupted operations at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Coordination has also been made with airlines regarding the efficient processing

personnel were on board but not listed in the manifest.

"We're still getting the data from Coast Guard Station Zamboanga because that's where they originated in order to determine if there are still missing people," he said.

Marfe said PCG investigators were on their way to inspect the ferry and determine the cause of the fire.

Survivors were taken to Zamboanga and Basilan, where the injured were treated for burns, Salliman said.

PCG BARMM Commander Commodore Rejard Marfe told the reporters that the death toll increased by more than doubled after 18 bodies were found inside the burned ship.

“As of now, our search is continuous so we can see if there are cadavers left to discover,” said Marfe.

More than 200 passengers and crew members were on board the M/V Lady Mary Joy 3 when it caught fire late Wednesday evening while docked at the pier of Baluk-Baluk Island.

The ferry was on its way to Jolo, Sulu from Zamboanga City on March 29 when

the Negros Oriental lawmaker to fly home so he could attend to his job and at the same time face the accusations against him, assuring him that he would be accorded justice and fairness.

President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. has also assured Teves of his safety.

At least 10 suspects, mostly former soldiers, have surrendered to the authorities and confessed either their direct or vital participation in the commission of the crime.

The NBI has taken custody of the suspects pending the result of the preliminary investigation on the murder charges and other criminal charges filed against them before the DOJ.

Remulla clarified that he has not spoken to the prosecutors handling the preliminary investigation of the case and it would be up to them to assess the information available to them in connection with the killings.

DOJ...

From A1 the BI, as a member of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), has the responsibility to administer and enforce anti-trafficking, immigration, and related laws to better protect Filipinos.

IACAT is currently processing the revision of the departure formalities to “better reflect current trends and plug the gaps that arose along the way,” the DOJ said.

It is also coordinating with the BI and other stakeholders to minimize the inconvenience caused by the departure formalities to Filipino travelers.

“We sincerely request the public’s continued patience, understanding, cooperation, and support. As we empathize with the disruptive effect these may have caused to the public, let us not overlook the fact that there is a bigger problem we need to address as a country: human trafficking,” the statement pleaded.

The DOJ admitted that it has become hard now to determine regular passengers from potential human trafficking victims, citing a recent recruitment scheme involving educated, well-traveled, and professional Filipinos to work in regional call centers linked to online scamming and

crimes, including those allegedly committed in the context of the anti-illegal drugs campaign,” he added.

In the Philippines’ fight against illegal drugs, he noted that the government continues focusing on strengthening state programs on rehabilitation, prevention, education, and assistance to drug victims and their families as well as ensuring transparency and accountability in law enforcement operations.

He said the government is also investing more to enhance the administration of justice "through the various institutions and mechanisms already in place to protect the right to life, liberty and security of the Filipino people" to achieve its objectives for people-centered growth and prosperity.

Mr. Marcos cited as an example the establishment of the Department ofMigrant Workers to protect and promote the rights of more than 10 million Filipino migrants.

He also said the nation’s justice reform agenda acknowledges that realjustice means the humane treatment of persons deprived of liberty and efficient prosecution

of their passengers, especially at the checkin counters.

Additional airline personnel will be deployed as needed to accommodate the increase in travelers.

Local airlines advised passengers to leave home early to allot more time for travel to the airport during the peak period.

“Passengers must be at the NAIA Terminal 3 and 4 at least three hours before departure for domestic flights, and four hours for international flights. Passengers traveling to Dubai are allowed to check in as early as seven hours before departure,” the Cebu Pacific Air management stated. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

the fire hit the vessel minutes before 11 p.m. The flames were extinguished at 7:30 a.m. on Thursday.

Coast Guard Station Basilan formed a joint Search and Rescue team with the local government units in the area and conducted the search and rescue operation in the vicinity waters off Baluk-Baluk Island in Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan.

"Upon receipt of information regarding the said fire incident, a Search and Rescue (SAR) Team from Coast Guard SubStation Maluso immediately proceeded in the area of the incident and was able to retrieve one female cadaver," said the Coast Guard in a Facebook post.

In an interview with Dobol B TV, Basilan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office Chief Nixon Alonzo said that the information on the fatalities they received from the Hadji Muhtamad Municipal DRRMO is still subject to validation.

According to Alonzo, some of the bodies they fished out of the water were drowned victims while others had burn marks on their bodies. With AFP

Remulla said the government through the NBI will be asking Interpol to issue a blue notice against Teves following his failure to return to the country amid allegations of his involvement in the Degamo killing.

A blue notice will alert membercountries that Teves is under investigation for alleged commission of a crime.

The DOJ chief also lauded the decision of former Negros Orientalgovernor Pryde Henry Teves, the lawmaker’s brother, to sign a waiver allowing the Justice Department to look into his bank accounts, phone records, and emails in a bid to clear his name of any involvement in the Degamo killing.

Rep. Teves left the country last February 28 to undergo stem cell treatment in the United States and was supposed to return on March 9 based on the travel authority issued by the House of Representatives.

other fraudulent activities.

“The profile of these victims poses a challenge to our implementation of the Departure Formalities, as many of them do not share the vulnerabilities of traditional victims of labor trafficking, such as those Filipinos exploited as domestic workers in the Middle East or fishers in the Asia-Pacific region,” the department stressed.

“The underlying problem here lies in the fact that for these new schemes, it is extremely difficult to distinguish regular passengers from potential victims of human trafficking,” it said.

From January to February 2023 alone, the DOJ said the Immigration bureau deferred the departure of 6,788 out of 1,056,247 Filipinos who exited the international airports. Of this number, 57 were referred to IACAT as likely victims of human trafficking. The rest were deferred for other reasons such as incomplete, improper, or misrepresented documents. Many of them would have also been vulnerable to human trafficking had they been allowed to depart, according to the agency.

A freelance writer earlier went viral on social media after revealingthat she failed to catch her flight to Israel in December 2022 due to a lengthy interview at the immigration counter. Rey E. Requejo

of criminal cases.

President Marcos said the administration is pouring resources and energy into improving the processes in the investigation of cases and the witness protection program.

He also said the Philippines will continue being an active player bothbilaterally and globally in dialogues tackling various issues concerning democracy, human rights, and good governance, “as long as these engagements are constructive, based on facts, and respectful of Philippine sovereignty,” Mr. Marcos said.

He thanked US President Joe Biden and the US government for conveningthe Second Summit for Democracy, along with co-host countries Costa Rica, South Korea, The Netherlands, and Zambia.

The Filipino leader said the summit “affirms the solidarity of nations bound by values of democracy and sends a powerful message of our collective will to bring about the best of peoples and societies empowered by freedom.”

Hudgens tapped as global tourism ambassador

By Vince Lopez

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. granted digital influencer and FilipinoAmerican “High School Musical” actress Vanessa Anne Hudgens the Global Tourism Ambassador Award as part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to promote Philippine tourism and raise the country’s global status.

Hudgens received the award during a courtesy call with PresidentMarcos in Malacañan Palace witnessed by Presidential Adviser onCreative Communications Paul Soriano—who is directing her in a documentary—and Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Frasco.

Mr. Marcos told the Hollywood actress that Malacañang has held in its walls “a lot of history for the Philippines" which housed numerous historical personalities and is often considered one of the historical landmarks in the Philippines due to its historical significance and background.

“Beyond that, it has a lot of history for me. I lived here 20 yearsand now I’ve come back to live here again,” Mr. Marcos said, referring to his personal experiences during his late father and namesake's reign as President. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

CHED proposes new nursing tack to end shortage

THE Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has proposed a new nursing curriculum that aims to boost the number of nurses working in the country by allowing undergrad nursing students to work already, ABS-CBN reported Thursday.

The proposed "BS Nursing Curriculum with Exit Credentials" will allowa first-year nursing student to attain a certificate that would certify that the student has “basic nursing skills in rendering safe and appropriate care," and work as a nursing aide and nursing assistant, the report said.

Those in their second or third year may receive a diploma that would certify that the student can “demonstrate safe, appropriate and holistic care” to people and work as a nursing associate, community health nurse, and associate maternal and child nurse.

Those who reach their fourth year will receive their Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing.

“That means if we run this program, in one to two years you haveadditional nursing manpower, which can already be employed in our health facilities. Because the need for nursing professionals is not all nursing graduates. There are intermediate individual credentials that can be used,” CHED Chairman Popoy De Vera said in an online press conference. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Or....

From A1

not just for the area first affected by the oil spill,” Dolor said.

Meanwhile, as recent tests yielded minimal traces of oil and grease inthe province’s spill-affected areas, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) recommended Thursday to keep the fishing bans in the affected municipalities.

The agency, in a statement, believes the initial analyses are not yetconclusive evidence as far as food safety is concerned since the samples were collected during the early days of March.

Large parts of Oriental Mindoro were affected by an oil spill causedby the sinking of motor tanker Princess Empress which was carrying 900,000 liters of industrial fuel oil.

Thousands of fishermen and their families are now part of thegovernment’s cash-for-work program after fishing bans were imposed in the affected waters.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development said it has given at least P38.1 million in aid to affected families.

BFAR has been monitoring the situation in areas affected by the oilspill, with regular evaluation of the contaminant levels in water and fishery resources.

These determine if fish and other seafood in these areas are safe forpublic consumption and if fishing bans should be lifted by the local government units (LGUs) concerned.

It said that water samples collected and analyzed from the affected municipalities of Bansud, Bongabong, Bulalacao, Calapan, Gloria, Mansalay, Naujan, Pinamalayan, Pola, and Roxas, and in Caluya, Antique on March 9 to 12 showed that the levels of oil and grease were within the standards approved by the DENR.

Meanwhile, fish samples collected and analyzed from the same areas on March 4 to 5 showed low-level contaminants or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH). (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

IN BRIEF

Solon wants to revive Masagana 99 program

CAMARINES Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte on Thursday urged the agriculture department to revive the Masagana 99 rice production program that prevented a rice crisis in the 1970s.

Villafuerte proposed the revival of the program in the wake of the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) plan to plant high-yielding hybrid seeds in 1.5 million hectares this dry season.

The Masagana 99 program was envisioned to increase farm yields to 100 cavans per hectare, up from the 40 to 50 cavans per hectare harvest at the time. It was implemented by then Agriculture Secretary Arturo Tanco Jr. with current Senior Agriculture Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban as chairman of the National Food and Agriculture Council. Maricel V. Cruz

Napolcom activates Maguindanao offices

THE National Police Commission (Napolcom) approved the activation of the Maguindanao del Norte Police Provincial Office (PPO) and Maguindanao del Sur PPO following the deactivation of the existing Maguindanao PPO.

The Napolcom En Banc, headed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary and NAPOLCOM Ex-Officio chairperson Atty. Benjamin C. Abalos, Jr., signed Resolution No. 2023-0213, dated March 1, 2023, which approved the aforementioned activation and deactivation pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act No. 11550, entitled “An Act Dividing the Province of Maguindanao into Two (2) Provinces, namely: Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur.”

Navotas City prepares for Holy Week influx

THE Navotas City government has started preparations to ensure safe observance of the coming Holy Week. The city has set up a security and traffic management plan particularly near churches and chapels that are centers of religious activities.

Mayor John Rey Tiangco said “we expect an influx of churchgoers and the faithful on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, especially in Brgy. Bangkulasi where the Bahay ng Mahal na Señor is located,” adding that tourists also flock the area to witness devotees practice “penitensya.” Jun David

TH E Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) through its Regional Office No. VII Bohol Field Office (BFO) simultaneously released a total of P4,689,300 worth of salaries to the workers of Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) from the various towns of Bohol on March 27.

“The workers are overjoyed since this is the first time in Bohol that payout was made simultaneously to 13 LGUS. It is also the first time that their salaries are released within 2 weeks from the last day of work,” Bohol Field Office Chief Maria Eloida O. Cantona, said.

The 1,078 beneficiaries from 13 municipalities each received P4,350 for doing community works like road and street cleaning. They worked for 10 days and received a minimum wage of P435 per day. The TUPAD workers were also given cleaning kits and TUPAD uniforms.

FREE ANTI-RABIES SHOTS. Pet lovers line up for a free anti-rabies vaccination for their pets as part of the Quezon City government’s “Rabies Awareness Month” in March.

A free deworming and neutering for cats was also held at Quezon City Memorial Circle. Manny Palmero

CAKE FOR DIGONG. A surprise birthday cake was given to former President Rodrigo Duterte from the officers and members of the Prosecutors’ League of the Philippines after his speech at the just-concluded national convention of prosecutors.

Felino Santos

Makati schools shift to using solar

By Joel E. Zurbano

NINE public schools in Makati City have already shifted to sustainable and renewable energy by using solar panels, Mayor Abigail Binay said on Thursday.

At the launching of the solar panel project at San Antonio National High School, Binay highlighted the importance of “ walking the talk” when it comes to promoting sustainability and raising awareness about the impact of climate change.

“As a city, we have a responsibility to protect the environment and address the effects of climate change. The use of solar panels in schools is just one step towards achieving our goal of creating a more sustainable and resilient city. By investing in solar panels for our public schools, we are taking a step towards a greener, more sustainable future for our

beloved city,” Binay said. Under the project, a total of 25 public elementary and high schools in the city will transition to the use of solar energy. San Antonio National High School is one the first schools to have fully-operational solar panels on site.

Makati High School, East Rembo Elementary School, Makati Elementary School, Pembo Elementary School, San Antonio Village Elementary School, Nicanor Garcia Elementary School, Tibagan High School, and Rizal Elementary School have also started using solar panels.

The project will reduce energy con-

sumption and costs in schools by harnessing the power of the sun. By using solar panels, schools will be able to generate electricity, reduce their reliance on traditional power sources, and decrease their carbon footprint.

The panels are projected to produce enough energy to power the schools during daylight hours, with excess energy being fed back into the grid.

San Antonio National High School reported that 88 percent (3644 kWh) of its recent total electricity consumption came from collected solar power energy, while the remaining 12 percent (498 kWh) was sourced from the usual electric distribution utility company.

Besides saving the city energy and money, Binay said San Antonio High School’s transition to renewable energy also translates to environmental benefits: 2.41 equivalent trees planted and 4.35 t CO2 emissions saved.

PBBM AND TOYM.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. poses with the Ten Outstanding Young Men 2022 honorees who have shown outstanding skills in the fields of medicine, education, arts, and leadership.

OP Photo

By Rio N. Araja

WARM temperature can pose health risks to those with heart problems, according to the Philippine Heart Association.

Dr. Jeannica dela Peña of the PHA advocacy committee CPR Council said hot weather is not good for people with heart problems.

“If the temperature is high, the beat of the heart palpitates faster or at times, four times faster. If one’s heart is weak, the heat could add more stress to it to work,” she said.

Dela Peña is an adult cardiologist and advanced echocardiographer at The Medical City.

“Hot weather can be stressful to a normal person. What more to a person with a heart condition? That is the natural compensatory response,” she stressed.

Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle does not pump blood as it should.

“When it is hot, people perspire too much. That is why they drink water too often to avoid dehydration,” the heart doctor said.

“But to one with heart failure, that cannot be. The fluid could build up to one’s body,” she added.

She recommended for those with heart condition to stay outdoors only when the temperature is no longer high, not to wear dark-colored clothes and to drink just enough amount of water.

New study reveals breast, cervical screening extremely low in PH

BREAST and cervical cancer screening

is extremely low in the Philippines compared to upper-middle and high-income countries, Valerie Ulep, a senior research fellow at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, said in a study.

Cancer’s overall economic burden is costing the Philippines P35.3 billion each year in actual medical cost, wasted

opportunity and foregone productivity, Ulep also said in the study. Wonder drugs and modern equipment now available here can save more lives if the public is more aware of preventive screening. While cancer is now treatable due to modern medicines including target therapy, prevention is lacking because “many Filipino women do not

have access to preventive screening” for breast and cervical cancer.

To intensify cancer screening, advocates like Cancer Coalition and Citizen’s Watch are pressing Congress to increase its roughly P1-billion annual budget for the Department of Health’s anti-cancer program.

Prevention is best but in case illness

has set in, the P1 billion can only help 200 patients who need to go through 18 cycles of targeted or chemotherapy which costs a total of around P450,000 per patient.

Data show that around 27,000 new breast cancer incidences are reported each year here with 9,000 of previously registered patients dying.

Operatives arrest BARMM general

By Nash B. Maulana

THE Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation Detection Group (CIDG) has arrested a topranking police official of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) over old criminal charges that ostensibly stemmed from his previous tours of duty. Reports from the CIDG Regional Field Unit 15 identified the arrested police official as PBGEN John Guyguyon. The chief of the Police Regional Office of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) in Camp General Salipada K Pendatun in the port town of Parang, Maguindanao del Norte. The two criminal cases were reportedly filed by prosecutors during Guyguyon’s previous assignments ahead of his designation in March last year as BARMM regional police director. The arresting officers of the CIDG-RFU BAR

had immediately turned over Guyguyon to PROBAR OIC Deputy Regional Director for Administration, PBGen Gil Francis Tria for custodial arrest and “for proper disposition.”

The CIDG RFU-BAR plotted and served the two arrest warrants on Guyguyon, issued by Presiding Judge Catherine Pespes Manodon, of the National Capital Judicial Region, RTC Branch 104, dated December 1, 2022, said the police blotter on the arrest. A second arrest warrant was issued by Presiding Judge Kathleen Rosario Dela Cruz-Espinosa, National Capital Judicial Region, RTC Branch 91, Quezon City dated May 20, 2022, the same report said. Sources from Camp Crame said that PNP Chief, General Rodolfo Azurin Jr. had recalled the designation of Guyguyon as PRO-BAR director, the night before the CIDG RFU tracking team implemented two arrest warrants that courts in Luzon have issued against Guyguyon.

Warm climate poses risk for cardio patients

IN BRIEF

Senator eyes stronger mental health program

SENATOR Christopher Go reiterates the need to consistently strengthen mental health programs to promote overall health and wellbeing of the Filipinos

Go, chair of the Senate Committee on Health, noted that mental health has been a pressing issue in recent years, especially during the pandemic.

He said the people have faced unprecedented levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.

The senator also said the government has allocated significant funds for mental health services and awareness-raising initiatives.

“The DOH has P1.86 billion for mental health medicines. Under the 2023 national budget, there is P12 million budget for mental health awareness and hotline,” Go said.

The senator added that he has consistently advocated increased funding for mental health programs. Macon Ramos-Araneta

Risa seeks docs on DA’s sugar import

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Risa Hontiveros has called on the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) to submit the documents needed for the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee to begin its investigation on the alleged sugar smuggling last February.

“We need to act with urgency, preferably after Holy Week or before all sugar in the markets will be gone,” she said.

The senator noted there were crimes that have taken place and continue to

House launches book on water resource laws

THE House of Representatives on Wednesday launched its latest publication entitled “Laws, Executive Issuances and Jurisprudence on Water Resources (1901-2022),” to serve as reference for policy researches on water.

Tingog party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez, in a message read by Davao de Oro Rep. Maria Carmen Zamora, described the book launching as “a crucial step towards fully implementing our laws and allowing our people to take part in our efforts for the preservation of our country’s water resources.”

“It is our hope that this collaboration spearheaded by the Legislative Information Resource Management Department (LRIMD) and the Legal Affairs Department (LAD) will open up more discussions and interests in the topic and therefore promote public participation,” Romualdez said.

Romualdez was principal author of House Bill 21 calling for the “National Framework for Water Resource Management and Creating the Department of Water Resources and the Water Regulatory Commission,” along with Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre.

unfold “and exposing these crimes may allow us to unravel the bigger crimes of economic sabotage and possibly plunder.”

She also expressed hopes on the commitment of Blue Ribbon Committee

chairman Sen. Francis Tolentino to investigate the sugar fiasco.

“And I have full faith that he will be as zealous as he was during the first sugar hearings,” Hontiveros said.

In case documents from the SRA are not yet available, Hontiveros said Tolentino can commence the hearing and issued subpoena duces tecum for the needed documents to be presented in the Senate hearing.

Earlier, Tolentino said he cannot start the hearing as he was still awaiting pertinent documents from the SRA.

According to Tolentino, he has only a copy of Sugar Order No. 6 which was sent to him by the SRA.

Hontiveros has filed a resolution seeking an investigation on the Department of Agriculture’s importation of what she branded as “governmentsponsored smuggling.” The importation was made even without the required permit from the SRA. She said many crimes were happening after sugar had been smuggled. She expects to unearth bigger crimes like economic sabotage and plunder.

IMEE IN SAN PABLO CITY.

Senator Imee Marcos visits San Pablo City in Laguna in line with the ImeeSolusyon Pregnant Congress and hands out P20 million under the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s

Assistance for Persons in Crisis Situations. With the senator are Laguna Vice Governor Karen Agapay, Rep. Loreto Amben Amante and Mrs. Madette Amante, Mayor Vicente Amante and wife Gem CastilloAmante, and Vice Mayor Justin Collago.

Roy Tomandao

Bataan gov’t draws up 3-year

investment

plan

THE Bataan provincial government has passed a resolution establishing the Provincial Development Investment Program (PDIP) 2023-2025.

Provincial councilor Manny Beltran, chairman of the Committee of Finance, Budget, Appropriations and Ways and Means, sponsored the resolution in response to an urgent request of Gov. Joet Garcia.

The governor said PDIP 20232025 was a vital document that outlines the roadmap for the province’s economic and social development.

He said the plan was meant to foster a “highly livable and globally competitive environment for every Pamilyang Bataeno.”

The program is focused on four development sectors, which are economic development; social development; infrastructure and utility development; and development administration. Butch Gunio

PCAARRD publishes shrimp culture book

THE Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has published a book on Biofloc technology (BFT) on the viability of raising white-legged shrimps at less cost.

The PCCAARD researchers said shrimp nurseries that are set up in ponds, especially those that co-culture shrimp with milkfish, are prone to viral diseases.

The spread of luminous vibrios and white spot syndrome virus, as well as high production costs, are emerging problems of the shrimp industry that need solutions for its sustainable production, the researchers said. Butch Gunio

Bersamin urges TOYM awardees to keep advocacies, excellence

By Vince Lopez

EXECUTIVE Secretary Lucas Bersamin

on Thursday called on The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) for 2022 to continue their advocacies and make the country a “land worth living in and loving.” Bersamin was the guest of honor and speaker at the awarding ceremony for

TOYM 2022 held at Malacañang.

“And so I raise a challenge not only to the 10 of you awardees, but as well to the countless others who had been so honored before you, to keep up the excellence you have shown,” Bersamin said.

“It is encouraging for me to note that many of you do not consider financial success as the ultimate measure of achieve-

BI advises aliens to secure required permits early

By Vito Barcelo

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has urged foreign tourists who have stayed in the country for more than six months to secure their emigration clearance certificates in any of the different BI’s district, field, satellite and extension offices nationwide.

BI commissioner Norman Tansing-

co also reminded that registered foreigners with ACR I-Cards may secure their re-entry permits in other BI Offices or at the BI NAIA one-stop-shop before proceeding to their flights.

Tansingco said securing their required permits early “will decrease queuing time in half, because they will not have to fall in line in a separate counter for Immigration cashiers”.

Tansingco also reminded Filipino government officials and employees to present their authority to travel abroad from their respective department heads He also advised parents of unaccompanied minors to make sure that their children secure the required clearance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) prior to the trip.

Roman stresses need to enact law for the agri sector

By Maricel V. Cruz

BATAAN Rep. Geraldine Roman on Thursday cited the need for Congress to enact a law that aims to provide solutions to the worsening condition of farmers and fishermen.

Speaking at a consultative assembly with stakeholders in the province, Roman appealed to her fellow legislators to support her House Bill 5601 or Magna Carta for Agricultural Workers. Citing a survey conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA),

Roman revealed that farmers and fisher folk remain the poorest sector in the country.

Based on the 2021 poverty statistics of the PSA, fisher folk have the highest poverty rate with 30.6 percent, followed by farmers with 30 percent.

ment. Because to you, it is rather the lives you have improved and positively affected that matter above all,” he added.

The Executive Secretary also said the awardees have subscribed to the enduring ideal of all humanity being objects of love and service.

“The world must be preserved through peace and harmony and kept

safe for generations to come. Continue to be relevant. Continue to do more. Continue your advocacies and make our country a land worth living in and loving,” he said.

Bersamin told the awardees that the ceremony should not be the finish line of their hard work in their respective fields and advocacies.

BOOK LAUNCH. The House of Representatives launches its latest publication labeled “Laws, Executive Issuances and Jurisprudence on Water Resources (1901-2022) meant as a compendium of all fiats, statures, and edicts on water resource management. (See story below) HREP photo

When homicide becomes murder

HOMICIDE is “any killing of a human being by another human being.”

For the killing to be culpable, it must coincide with the intent to harm or injure another.

Death as a result of nonfatal intentional injuries may also be considered as homicide (see Barron’s Law Dictionary)

Intent is a condition of the mind which can only be proven by manifest acts.

The testimonies of witnesses giving detailed accounts of the events leading to the commission of the crime are vital in proving such acts.

These witnesses, having personal knowledge of the facts, can assist the court in determining whether intent actually exists.

If the resulting death was due to imprudence, the crime committed is reckless imprudence resulting in homicide.

Examples include deaths due to the collision of two cars, or death from an illegally discharged firearm colloquially known as “ligaw na bala.”

Murder, on the other hand, is the unlawful killing of a person, which is not parricide or infanticide, through any of the qualifying circumstances enumerated under Article 248 of the Revised Penal Code.

Similar to homicide, the victim dies; however, the presence of such circumstances increase the imposable penalties.

Premeditation should be evidenced in the execution of a

A person who employs means to weaken the defense of another, with treachery, taking advantage of superior strength, and with the aid of armed men shall be guilty of murder (Article 248, Revised Penal Code).

Treachery is present when the offender avails (himself/herself) of “means, methods or forms… to ensure its execution [killing] without risk to himself… from the defense which the offended party might make” (People v. Grabador, et al., G.R. 227504, June 13, 2018).

“‘The essence of treachery is that the attack comes without a warning and in a swift, deliberate, and unexpected manner, affording the hapless… victim no chance to resist or escape the sudden blow.’

“A frontal attack may be regarded as treacherous when it was so sudden on an unsuspecting, or an unarmed victim, who had no chance to repel the attack or avoid it” (G.R. 227504, June 13, 2018).

In People v. Grabador, “Dennis (victim) had no inkling that an attack was forthcoming.

Although Dennis and Rodolfo (an accused) had an altercation, they shook hands before parting ways.

The said gesture assuaged Dennis into believing their issues had been sorted… to Dennis’ surprise, Rodolfo came back after 15 minutes, this time accompanied by three other armed men” (G.R. 227504, June 13, 2018).

“Dennis, who was unarmed, was completely unaware of the imminent peril to his life. In a rapid motion, the men, including Alex (another accused), suddenly shot Dennis with their sumpak (homemade gun).

“The onslaught was so sudden and unexpected that Dennis had no chance to run, mount a defense or evade the bullets” (G.R. 227504, June 13, 2018).

The circumstance of abuse of superior strength may be considered by the court as qualifying or aggravating if “the accused purposely uses excessive force out of proportion to the means of defense available to the person attacked, or if there is notorious inequality of forces between the victim and aggressor, and the latter takes advantage of superior strength” (People v. Norada, G.R. 218958, December 13, 2017).

In the case of People v. Aquino, et al., the prosecution failed to adduce evidence of a relative disparity in age, size, strength, or force, except for showing that two assailants stabbed the victim while three others restrained him.

HOW does the Chinese government view the United States at this historical juncture?

To get an idea of just how Beijing looks at the US, there’s a February 2023 paper issued by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs titled “US hegemony and its perils.”

This is the latest pronouncement and as official as it gets, so I’m publishing pertinent parts of it as written.

Here’s what it said.

“Since becoming the world’s most powerful country after the two world wars and the Cold War, the United States has acted more boldly to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, pursue, maintain and abuse hegemony, advance subversion and infiltration, and willfully wage wars, bringing harm to the international community.

“The United States has developed a hegemonic playbook to stage ‘color revolutions’, instigate regional disputes, and even directly launch wars under the guise of promoting democracy, freedom and human rights. Clinging to the Cold War mentality, the United States has ramped up bloc politics and stoked conflict and confrontation.

“It has overstretched the concept of national security, abused export controls and forced unilateral sanctions upon others.

“It has taken a selective approach to international law and rules, utilizing or discarding

Disbandment of private armed groups

“[T]he presence of several assailants does not ipso facto indicate an abuse of superior strength. Mere superiority in numbers is not indicative of the presence of this circumstance” (G.R. 203435, April 11, 2018).

Premeditation should be evidenced in the execution of a criminal act; it should be “[p] receded by cool thought and reflection… to carry out the criminal intent, during the space of time sufficient to arrive at a calm judgment. The premeditation to kill must be plain and notorious, and thereafter proven by evidence of outward acts showing such intent to kill” (G.R. 227504, June 13, 2018).

“It is imperative to prove that the accused indeed underwent a process of ‘cold and deep meditation, and a tenacious persistence in the accomplishment of the criminal act.’

“Accordingly, there can be no evident premeditation when the determination to commit the crime was immediately followed by execution” (G.R. 227504, June 13, 2018).

“Evident premeditation cannot be presumed in the absence of evidence showing when and how the accused planned, and prepared for the crime, and that a sufficient amount of time had lapsed between his determination and execution… [a] bsent any clear and positive evidence, mere presumptions and inferences…, no matter how logical and probable, shall be deemed insufficient” (G.R. 227504, June 13, 2018). In the Grabador case, the prosecution failed to identify the time at which Alex decided to kill Dennis.

Instead, the prosecution randomly concluded that there was evident premeditation from the fact that Rodolfo left and came back after 15 minutes with Alex, and thereafter killed Dennis (G.R. 227504, June 13, 2018).

“[A] lapse of 15 minutes preceding the attack is not sufficient to conclude that evident premeditation attended the commission of the offense.”

In People v. Illescas, “the Court ruled that a 15-minute interval cannot be deemed as sufficient time for the accused to coolly reflect on his acts…” (cited in G.R. 227504, June 13, 2018).

Another qualifying circumstance for murder is that the killing was in consideration of a price, reward or promise.

A mastermind and a hired gunman or assassin who kills a victim are both guilty of murder. An example of this is a husband who hires a gunman to kill his wife to be able to collect a life insurance policy wherein he is the beneficiary.

Murder is also committed “by means of inundation, fire, poison, explosion, shipwreck, stranding of a vessel, derailment or assault upon a street car or locomotive, fall of an airship, by means of motor vehicles, or with the use of any other means involving great waste and ruin.”

The killing of victims by throwing a hand grenade at them is murder qualified by explosion (Gregorio, Fundamentals of Criminal Law Review citing People v. Tayo [1980]).

Cruelty, a qualifying circumstance, is defined as deliberately and inhumanly augmenting the suffering of the victim. (see Article 248, Revised Penal Code).

“The gagging of the mouth of a three-yearold child with stockings, dumping him with head downwards into a box, and covering the box with sacks and other boxes,… causing slow suffocation, is cruelty” (People v. Lora, G.R. L-49430, March 30, 1982).

“Where the victim was already dead and the body aside from being stabbed on the face several times, was still subjected to further beatings on the head with the Thompson submachine gun causing the brain to scatter, is an example of outraging and scoffing” (Gregorio, Fundamentals of Criminal Law Review citing People v. Orzamme [1966]).

“It is an elementary rule in criminal law that each of the qualifying circumstances must be alleged in the Information, and must be proven as clearly as the crime itself.

“Every element of the offense must be shown to exist beyond reasonable doubt and cannot be the mere product of speculation. In the absence of a qualifying circumstance, the crime committed is homicide, and not murder” (G.R. 227504, June 13, 2018).

“In the crime of murder, the qualifying circumstance raising the killing to the category of murder must be specifically alleged in the information.

Further, Sections 8 and 9 of Rule 110 of the Rules of Criminal Procedure require both the qualifying and aggravating circumstances must be specifically alleged in the information to be appreciated as such” (G.R. 203435, April 11, 2018).

them as it sees fit, and has sought to impose rules that serve its own interests in the name of upholding a ‘rules-based international order.’”

Political Hegemony — Throwing Its Weight

Around: “The United States has long been attempting to mold other countries and the world order with its own values and political system in the name of promoting democracy and human rights.

“Instances of US interference in other countries’ internal affairs abound.

“In the name of ‘promoting democracy,’ the United States practiced a ‘Neo-Monroe Doctrine’ in Latin America, instigated ‘color revolutions’ in Eurasia, and orchestrated the ‘Arab Spring’ in West Asia and North Africa, bringing chaos and disaster to many countries.

“The US exercises double standards on international rules.

“Placing its self-interest first, the United States has walked away from international treaties and organizations, and put its domestic law above international law.”

Military Hegemony — Wanton Use of Force:

“The history of the United States is characterized by violence and expansion.

“Since it gained independence in 1776, the United States has constantly sought expansion by force: it slaughtered Indians, invaded Canada, waged a war against Mexico, instigated the

FOLLOWING the brazen assassination of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo early this month, the government is now moving to dismantle private armed groups, particularly in areas where local government officials have been the target of armed attacks.

In fact, the National Task Force on Disbandment of Private Armed Groups (NTF-DPags) is now considering expanding its area of coverage and identifying hot spots where intense political rivalry at the local level has often led to violence.

Interior and Local Government Secretary and NTF-DPags Chairman Benjamin Abalos Jr. has emphasized that the “synergy of efforts” of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police is crucial in expanding the mandate of the task force across the nation.

Prior to the Degamo slay, government attention was focused on Mindanao; now its goal is to expand the scope of its work so that what has been done to restore peace in Mindanao can also be replicated in other parts of the country.

The national government’s program on DPags is being carried out through the security component of the Normalization

The bigger the stakes, the bigger the armed contingent and their arsenal of weapons

Track under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, the landmark peace agreement signed between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in 2014.

For Defense Senior Undersecretary and NTF-DPags Special Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr., the mandate of the task force has become “more urgent” with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to solve the recent

wave of attacks by lawless elements.

During the 11th Oversight Committee Meeting of the NTF-DPags recently, it was revealed there are no more active private armed groups operating in Western Mindanao as of the first quarter of this year.

How about in other areas where political dynasties intent on perpetuating themselves in office and thus wield enormous power and influence for as long as they can?

They will stop at nothing, even set up their own private armed groups, to intimidate and even liquidate their political adversaries and their supporters so they can rule their own fiefdoms in the provinces.

It is in the rural areas where politicians employ private armed groups to ensure that they remain in power or return to public office.

And recent news reports indicate former soldiers and police discharged dishonorably from the service are usually recruited as bodyguards by politicians.

These bodyguards form the core of a private armed group whose size depends on the specific security requirements of the politician.

The bigger the stakes, the bigger the armed contingent and their arsenal of weapons.

The result, as we have seen recently, is murder and mayhem one after another in various places, thus undermining the rule of law that’s supposed to be the foundation of a democratic system.

REMEMBER Melania Flores, the professor of the University of the Philippines in Diliman and her arrest last month in connection with her criminal case in a Quezon City court?

Flores was arrested by Quezon City police operatives on the strength of a warrant issued by Judge Maria Gilda Loja-Pangilinan of the Regional Trial Court of Quezon City.

The criminal case against Flores was filed by her househelper for Flores’ alleged failure to remit employer’s contributions to the Social Security System account of the househelper.

Under the law, an employer’s failure to remit the required contributions is a criminal offense. That is one reason why many employers are hesitant to be part of the SSS.

At the time of Flores’ arrest, many noisy members of the UP Diliman community openly protested both her arrest and the police presence in the UP Diliman campus. Almost everyone who protested were radical elements known for their stubborn opposition to any administration of the national government. Police authorities have reason to believe these radical elements are either communists or red sympathizers. These radical elements chanted the usual mantras against the government, the police in particular.

Their mantras range from the usual vague accusations of police abuse, to unfounded allegations that a witchhunt in UP against its faculty has been supposedly sponsored by exPresident Rodrigo Duterte during his time, and by incumbent President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

In addition, the radicals sweepingly claim the arrest of Flores was an affront to UP’s academic freedom.

The radicals likewise denounced the country’s justice system, and even unfairly insinuated the judge was a puppet of the establishment.

What was immediately noticeable was the angry mob’s statement to news reporters that the presence of the police inside the UP Diliman campus violated a 1992 accord between UP and the government.

That accord purportedly requires policemen to seek the prior approval of UP officialdom just

to enforce a judicial warrant of arrest inside the campus.

Suspiciously, the radicals conveniently kept quiet about the fact that the said accord has been long terminated by the government because the UP campus should not be entitled to special treatment not afforded other public places.

From the way he publicly comported himself, Nemenzo insists UP is entitled to special treatment, and that UP professors are a protected class which need not obey the law.

Nemenzo is running for re-election as UP Diliman Chancellor.

The UP Board of Regents should not re-elect a sitting chancellor who wants UP to be exempted from complying with the law. Nemenzo’s policy sets a bad example to the gullible among the UP students.

Last March 19, the RTC dismissed the criminal case against Flores after the parties reached a de facto settlement.

When news of the dismissal was disseminated by the media, the UP radicals, as expected, praised the court’s decision.

Without even familiarizing themselves with the case record, the radicals hollered that Flores was a victim of trumped-up charges.

As usual, they also chanted mantras about academic freedom and the alleged harassment of activists by state forces.

Two groups in UP, namely, the All UP Academic Employees Union and the Congress of Teachers / Educators for Nationalism and Democracy were among those involved in making those baseless, sweeping generalizations.

They were also silent about the fact that Flores was able to post bail and was released just a few hours after she was arrested.

UP Diliman Chancellor Fidel Nemenzo, fresh from his recent defeat in his bid to become UP President, was at the forefront of the fanfare surrounding Flores’ arrest.

He expressed disapproval over the arrest, and, like many of those present, mouthed all sorts of excuses against the enforcement of the law inside the UP campus.

Nemenzo ought to know the criminal case against Flores is a private domestic concern of the professor and, therefore, the same has nothing to do with academic freedom.

For the same reason, ex-President Duterte and President Marcos Jr. have nothing to do with the said arrest.

Equally unsettling is the news report that a member of the UP Board of Regents also denounced the criminal case of Flores without a prior, thorough legal understanding of the entire situation. I certainly hope the same is just an isolated incident.

At any rate, university academics should undertake a thorough study of all the pertinent facts surrounding a controversy before they announce their conclusions to the public.

As in any situation, it is unwise to engage in hasty judgments and conclusions.

What the radicals in UP have succeeded in so far doing is to encourage the youth to resort to bullying and to engage in misleading, antiestablishment propaganda to influence the justice system in their favor. That is a serious cause for alarm and concern for everyone.

American-Spanish War, and annexed Hawaii. “After World War II, the wars either provoked or launched by the United States included the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, the Kosovo War, the War in Afghanistan, the Iraq War, the Libyan War and the Syrian War, abusing its military hegemony to pave the way for expansionist objectives.”

Economic Hegemony — Looting and Exploitation: “After World War II, the United States led efforts to set up the Bretton Woods System, the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, which, together with the Marshall Plan, formed the international monetary system centered around the US dollar.

“In addition, the United States has also

established institutional hegemony in the international economic and financial sector by manipulating the weighted voting systems, rules and arrangements of international organizations including ‘approval by 85 percent majority,’ and its domestic trade laws and regulations.”

Technological Hegemony — Monopoly and Suppression: “The United States seeks to deter other countries’ scientific, technological and economic development by wielding monopoly power, suppression measures and technology restrictions in high-tech fields...

“It monopolizes intellectual property in the name of protection.

“Taking advantage of the weak position of other countries, especially developing ones, on intellectual property rights and the institutional vacancy in relevant fields, the United States reaps excessive profits through monopoly. “

Cultural Hegemony — Spreading False

Narratives: “The global expansion of American culture is an important part of its external strategy.

“The United States has often used cultural tools to strengthen and maintain its hegemony in the world.

“The United States embeds American values in its products such as movies. American values and lifestyle are a tied product to its movies and TV shows, publications, media content, and programs by the government-funded non-profit

cultural institutions.

“It thus shapes a cultural and public opinion space in which American culture reigns and maintains cultural hegemony.”

Conclusion: “While a just cause wins its champion wide support, an unjust one condemns its pursuer to be an outcast.

“The hegemonic, domineering, and bullying practices of using strength to intimidate the weak, taking from others by force and subterfuge, and playing zero-sum games are exerting grave harm…

“The United States must conduct serious soulsearching. It must critically examine what it has done, let go of its arrogance and prejudice, and quit its hegemonic, domineering and bullying practices.”

Given this official pronouncement, we ask:

Is it possible to work out a rapprochement or an easing of tensions between them?

To be honest, we really don’t know, given the wide gulf in their relations.

But at this point, we prefer to give the reader the option to make a conclusion.

We report, you decide.

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

Nemenzo, UP radicals behave like they are beyond the law

criminal act; it should be ‘[p]receded by cool thought and reflection… to carry out the criminal intent, during the space of time sufficient to arrive at a calm judgment’

Is it possible to work out a rapprochement or an easing of tensions between (China and the United States)?

How China views the US

What the radicals in UP have succeeded in so far doing is to encourage the youth to resort to bullying and to engage in misleading, anti-establishment propaganda to influence the justice system in their favor

Russia detains WSJ reporter for espionage

AUS journalist working for the Wall Street Journal has been arrested in Russia on charges of spying for Washington, Russia's FSB security services said on Thursday.

The announcement marks a serious escalation in the Kremlin's efforts to silence perceived critics, a crackdown that gained momentum following Russia's military operation in Ukraine last year.

The FSB security services said they had "halted the illegal activities of US citizen Evan Gershkovich," saying the Wall Street Journal reporter was "suspected of spying in the interests of the American government."

Their statement confirmed that Gershkovich, 31, was working with press accreditation issued by the Russian foreign ministry.

But the statement said he had been detained for gathering information "on an enterprise of the Russian military-industrial complex."

"The foreigner was detained in Yekaterinburg while attempting to obtain classified information," the FSB said, referring to a city in central Russia 1,800 kilometers (1,100 miles) east of Moscow.

Before joining The Wall Street Journal Gershkovich worked for AFP in Moscow.

A fluent Russian speaker, he was previously a reporter based in the Russian capital for The Moscow Times, an English-language news website.

His family immigrated to the United States from Russia when he was a child.

"The problem is... the fact that the way the FSB interprets espionage today means that anyone who is simply interested in military affairs can be imprisoned for 20 years," Russian political analyst Tatiana Stanovaya said on social media in response to the detention.

Several US citizens are currently in detention in Russia and both Washington and Moscow have accused the other of carrying out politically-motivated arrests.

The FSB in January opened a criminal case against a US citizen it said was suspected of espionage but did not name the individual.

Paul Whelan, a former US Marine, was arrested in Russia in 2018 and handed a 16-year sentence on espionage charges. He is detained in a penal colony south of Moscow.

The US says he was a private citizen visiting Moscow on personal business and has demanded his release.

There have been several high-profile prisoner exchanges between Moscow and Washington over the past year. AFP

Pope spends ‘good night’ in hospital after infection

POPE Francis spent a calm night in hospital after being admitted for a respiratory infection and is expected to remain there for a few days for treatment, a Vatican source said Thursday.

"The pope spent a good night" at Rome's Gemelli hospital, the source said, adding that there would be an update on the 86-year-old pontiff's condition later.

Pope Francis, who earlier this month marked 10 years as head of the Catholic Church, has suffered a number of health issues in recent years but normally has a busy schedule and continues to travel widely.

His admission to hospital on Wednesday, for what the Vatican initially said were pre-planned tests, forced him to cancel a number of engagements.

It also raises questions over his presence at services for the upcoming Holy Week and Easter, Christianity's most important holiday.

The Vatican late Wednesday said the pope had a respiratory infection that would require hospital treatment for "a few days," adding that Covid had been excluded.

Over the past year Francis has suffered from chronic knee pain that has required him to use a wheelchair.

His postponement last year of a scheduled trip to Africa and various events at home fuelled intense

speculation about his health, and in a July 2022 interview he acknowledged he needed to slow down.

At his weekly audience at the Vatican on Wednesday morning, just hours before his admission to hospital, the pope appeared in good spirits, smiling as he greeted the faithful from his "popemobile."

But he was pictured wincing as he was helped getting onto the vehicle – a photo that made all the major front pages of Italy's newspapers on Thursday.

Francis was admitted in July 2021 to the same Rome hospital for 10 days for an operation on his colon after suffering from a type of diverticulitis, an inflammation of pockets that develop in the lining of the intestine.

In an interview in January, Francis said the diverticulitis had returned.

Francis has repeatedly said, most recently in February, that he would consider stepping down if his health required, following the example of his predecessor Benedict XVI. He has cautioned, however, that papal resignations should not be the norm, and said in an interview last month that the idea was currently not "on my agenda.”

Benedict, who died on December 31, shocked the world in 2013 by becoming the first pope since the Middle Ages to resign. AFP

IN BRIEF

Colombia arrests 52 linked to int’l drug trade

COLOMBIAN authorities have arrested 52 people linked to international drug trafficking in a major operation supported by the United States, France and Spain, the defense ministry said Wednesday.

Of those arrested, 34 were under “current extradition orders,” Defense Minister Ivan Velasquez said.

After two years of investigation, Colombian authorities uncovered the suspects during an operation which lasted two months, and resulted in the seizure of “four tonnes of cocaine worth $134 million,” he added.

In a statement, the ministry said the suspects “were linked to international Mexican organizations

such as the Sinaloa Cartel,Jalisco New Generation, Los Zetas as well as European organizations such as Clan Devesa.”

Those arrested included

Mexicans Carlos Omar Felix and Silvano Francisco Mariano from the Sinaloa cartel accused of trafficking fentanyl to the United States.

A Slovak citizen, Michal Pis, who is accused of marketing methamphetamines in his country, the Czech Republic and Germany, was also among those detained, along with a British man who coordinated shipping drugs to Belgium and a Chilean money launderer. AFP

Aussie okays emissions caps on big polluters

AUSTRALIA'S parliament passed breakthrough climate laws targeting the nation's worst polluters on Thursday, forcing coal mines and oil refineries to curb emissions by about five percent each year. The laws apply to 215 major industrial facilities – each producing more than 100,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases a year – and form the backbone of Australia's pledge to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

Experts said the laws signalled the end of Australia's bitter "climate wars" – a decade of political brawling that has repeatedly derailed attempts to tackle the country's contribution to global warming.

With the new legislation, the country's centre-left Labor government has forecast it can stop 200 million tonnes of carbon from being pumped into the atmosphere over the next decade.

"What the parliament has done today is safeguard our climate, safeguard our economy and safeguard our future," Australia's Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen told MPs. "What the parliament has done today has brought an end to 10 years of dysfunction and 10 years of delay."

Aluminium smelters, coal mines, oil refineries and other large polluters will be forced to cut their emissions by 4.9 percent each year. AFP

RAMA'S BIRTHDAY. A child rings a bell during prayers on the occasion of Rama Navami festival, marking the birth anniversary of Hindu god Rama at a temple in New Delhi on March 30, 2023. AFP

Stocks and peso advance as banking worries ease

Stocks rose for a third day, with banking sector worries easing and traders weighing central banks’ interest rate plans in the wake of the recent turmoil.

The PSE index, the 30-company benchmark, gained 13 points, or 0.21 percent, to close at 6,644.75 Thursday, as five of the six subsectors advanced, with services leading the way.

The broader all-share index picked up 9 points, or 0.26 percent, to settle at 3,538.73, on a value turnover of P4 billion. Gainers led losers, 98 to 72, while 53 issues were unchanged.

Despite the market’s advance, only one of the 10 most active stocks ended in the green. International Container Terminal Services Inc. rose 1.87 percent to P218.00, while four stocks finished flat and the rest in the red.

The peso edges higher to close at 54.415 against the US dollar, compared to 54.45 Wednesday.

The local currency was also up 2.40 percent against the greenback since the start of the year.

Most Asian markets also advanced. Investors have taken heart from reassurances by authorities around the world that the fallout from the collapse of US regional banks and the takeover of Credit Suisse was contained.

But the flare-up has also fanned speculation the Federal Reserve will have to end its inflation-fighting rate hike campaign sooner than expected in order to avoid further destabilizing the finance industry.

PSEi March 30, 2023

TOP GAINERS

That has even led to bets on officials cutting borrowing costs by the end of the year -- some forecasts put the rate at just above four percent by 2024, compared with more than five prior to the recent upheaval.

That has focused eyes on the Fed’s next policy meeting, with observers predicting that could mark the last increase, even though inflation is still much higher than its target.

“The Fed remains in a very difficult position,” said Wolfe Research’s Chris Senyek.

“With banks stabilizing, inflation still way above target, the labor market still historically strong, and the Fed desperately needing to rebuild credibility, our sense is that the (policy board) will hike by 25 basis points on May 3.”

There is a feeling the latest woes among banks, which have been blamed on recent sharp hikes in rates, will force them to tighten credit, reducing the need for the Fed to hike further.

SPI Asset Management’s Stephen Innes said: “The good news for stocks is that growth concerns have moved into the driver’s seat after the recent banking shock, where investors are now positioning for the Fed to cut and instead rely on credit tightening to tame inflation. With AFP

TOP LOSERS

MOST ACTIVE

2023, resolved to hold the annual meeting virtually, pursuant to applicable SEC regulations. The annual meeting will be virtually conducted and may be accessed on the link https:// bit.ly/ATI_2023ASM on April 27, 2023, 2:00 p.m., to consider and take action upon the following matters:

1. Call to Order. This officially commences the meeting.

2. Proof of Notice and Quorum. The Corporate Secretary will certify that the notice of meeting had been sent to stockholders as of record date and that there is a quorum.

3. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held on April 28, 2022. The Minutes record the proceedings of the 2022 annual meeting. The minutes were included in the Information Statement and may be accessed in the Company Website https://www.asianterminals.com.ph/ati_ disclosures_minutesofmeeting.aspx

4. Chairman’s Address. The Chairman will address the stockholders and present the highlights of the business operation and performance of the Company in 2022.

5. Election of Directors. The nominees are named in Item 5 of the Information Statement, together with their qualifications and profiles for the election of the stockholders. Pursuant to the by-laws, the directors (including the independent directors) shall be elected annually and shall hold office until the next annual meeting and until his successor shall have been elected and qualified. Pursuant to the Company’s Corporate Governance Manual and applicable regulations of the SEC, an independent director who has served more than nine (9) consecutive years reckoned from 2012, can serve as such based on meritorious justifications and with the stockholders’ approval. Chief Justice Artemio V. Panganiban has been the Company’s independent director since 2010 and the Board resolved to retain him as independent director based on meritorious justification, subject to the approval of the stockholders (Please refer to Item 5 (a) (1) of the Information Statement) The stockholder’s vote in his favor is deemed an approval of the justification, otherwise he may choose to abstain.

6. Approval of the Audited Financial Statements for the Year Ended December 31, 2022. The stockholders are asked to approve the 2022 Audited Financial Statements, a copy of which is attached to the Information Statement.

7. Appointment of Independent Auditors. The appointment of R.G. Manabat & Co. as the independent auditors for 2023. Approval of the stockholders is sought.

8. Approval and Ratification of the Acts of the Board and the Management during the year 2022. The acts of the Board and Management in 2022 were summarized in Item 15 of the Information Statement. Approval and ratification of the stockholders is sought.

9. Other Matters. Any other relevant matter to the meeting may be raised by the stockholders.

10. Adjournment. This is to officially end the meeting.

All stockholders of record at the close of business on March 29, 2023 are entitled to notice and to vote at the annual meeting and at any adjournment thereof. The stock and transfer books of the Company will be closed from March 29 up to April 27, 2023. If unable to attend the meeting, stockholders may appoint either the Chairman of the ATI Board or the President as proxy with voting instructions and submitted via the Registration Portal. Proxies should be submitted on or before 7pm of April 17, 2023. Please refer to Annex “A” for the procedure. Proxies will be validated on April 21, 2023 at the Office of the Corporate Secretary., ATI Head Office, A. Bonifacio Drive, Port Area, Manila, 1018.

The Information Statement and its attachments is accessible at the PSE EDGE website and ATI Website at https://www.asianterminals.com.ph .

The detailed procedure of the registration and voting process are stated in Appendix “A” hereof. Manila, Philippines, March 10, 2023.

RODOLFO G. CORVITE, JR. Corporate Secretary

FOOD INFLATION. A customer looks at fruits et vegetables next to an information sign reading ‘10 fruits and vegetables with a price of 0.99 euro, anti-inflation challenge’, at a Carrefour hypermarket in Villeneuve-la-Garenne, in the northern suburbs of Paris, on March 29, 2023. AFP

Musk, experts call for halt in ‘giant AI experiments’

PARIS, France—Billionaire mogul Elon Musk and a range of experts called on Wednesday for a pause in the development of powerful artificial intelligence systems to allow time to make sure they are safe.

An open letter, signed by more than 1,000 people so far including Musk and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, was prompted by the release of GPT-4 from Microsoftbacked firm OpenAI.

The company says its latest model is much more powerful than the previous version, which was used to power ChatGPT, a bot capable of generating tracts of text from the briefest of prompts.

“AI systems with human-competitive intelligence can pose profound risks to society and humanity,” said the open letter titled “Pause Giant AI

Experiments”.

“Powerful AI systems should be developed only once we are confident that their effects will be positive and their risks will be manageable,” it said.

Musk was an initial investor in OpenAI, spent years on its board, and his car firm Tesla develops AI systems to help power its self-driving technology, among other applications.

The letter, hosted by the Muskfunded Future of Life Institute, was signed by prominent critics as well as competitors of OpenAI like Stability AI chief Emad Mostaque.

Canadian AI pioneer Yoshua Bengio, also a signatory, at a virtual press conference in Montreal warned “that society is not ready” for this powerful tool, and its possible misuses.

“Let’s slow down. Let’s make sure

BEJING—China’s economy is showing “strong momentum” despite a challenging global environment, Premier Li Qiang said Thursday, promising to bolster support for business as the country emerges from strict Covid controls that hammered GDP.

Li’s speech at the Boao Forum, a highprofile meeting on China’s southern Hainan island, was his first to an international conference since being appointed Beijing’s number-two official in early March.

“China’s economic growth shows strong momentum,” Li told top politicians and business leaders.

“Judging from the situation in March, it is better than in January and February,” he said, referring to a period when China saw a surge in Covid-19 infections following the lifting of strict pandemic controls.

China set an economic growth target of “around five percent” this month, one of its lowest in decades as it emerges from strict zero-Covid rules. AFP

that we develop better guardrails,” he said, calling for a thorough international discussion about AI and its implications, “like we’ve done for nuclear power and nuclear weapons.”

‘Trustworthy and loyal’

The letter quoted from a blog written by OpenAI founder Sam Altman, who suggested that “at some point, it may be important to get independent review before starting to train future systems”.

“We agree. That point is now,” the authors of the open letter wrote.

“Therefore, we call on all AI labs to immediately pause for at least 6 months the training of AI systems more powerful than GPT-4.” They called for governments to step in and impose a moratorium if companies failed to agree. AFP

NOTICE OF POSTPONEMENT OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING

This is to notify all stockholders of Asia Pacific Medical CenterIloilo, Inc. (formerly: Allied Care Experts (ACE) Medical Center – Iloilo, Inc. and hereinafter the “Corporation’) that on its meeting held on 19 March 2023, the Board of Directors had approved to postpone the Annual Meeting of the Stockholders for the year 2023 of the Corporation which was previously scheduled on 16 June 2023 to 30 June 2023 to give the Directors ample time to prepare for the Inauguration of the Hospital on 28 May 2023 and commencement of its operations on or before 17 June 2023.

A separate notice containing the details of the said Annual Stockholders’ Meeting will be posted at a prescribed period before the meeting.

March 24, 2023

APPENDIX “A”

Procedure for the Registration, Participation and Voting in the 2023 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting

To ensure the safety of attendees, the Board of Directors on February 23, 2023, resolved to hold the annual meeting by remote communication and voting will be in absentia, pursuant to applicable SEC regulations. All stockholders of record at the close of business on March 29, 2023 are entitled to notice and to vote at the annual meeting and at any adjournment thereof.

A) REGISTRATION: Stockholders may register to participate in the virtual meeting at the Registration Portal (“Registration Portal”) at: https://bit.ly/34INqR7

Registration will be from 9:00 am of April 5, 2023, until 7:00 pm of April 17, 2023.Stockholders are advised to register as early as possible. To proceed with the registration, personal information will be required. For identification, the Company shall only accept a scanned back-to-back copy of one valid government-issued ID bearing photo and signature which will be uploaded in the Registration Portal. Consent to process the personal information is included in the Registration Portal.

1. Individual stockholder with shares recorded in their name: name, valid email address active contact number and upload a valid government-issued ID.

For stockholders with joint accounts only the authorized stockholder will register and in addition to the above, shall upload scanned copy of a notarized authorization letter signed by the other stockholders, indicating who among them would be authorized to participate and/or vote and upload their valid government-issued IDs.

Individual Stockholder under a broker/ PCD: in addition to the name, valid email address, active contact number and a valid government-issued ID, the stockholder needs to coordinate with his broker and secure a duly signed Broker’s Certification stating the full account name, number of shares, and account or reference number which shall be uploaded in the Registration Portal.

2. Corporate stockholder: the duly authorized representative of the corporate stockholder shall register and provide his name, valid email address, active contact number, valid government-issued ID and the scanned copy of the notarized Secretary’s Certificate and signed proxy appointing either the ATI Chairman or President.

A proxy given by a broker in respect of shares of stock held by such broker for the account of the beneficial owner must be accompanied by a certification under oath stating the number of shareholdings and a that the broker has obtained the written consent or authorization of the account holder. The Company reserves the right to require additional documents as may be necessary or relevant.

B) VALIDATION: A notification by email from ATISHMeeting@asianterminals.com.ph shall be received by the stockholder together with a unique passcode which shall be used to access the ATI Voting Portal or other instructions. For queries, assistance or any technical difficulties, the stockholders may communicate with the Company through the above-mentioned email address or call 8528-6000. Stockholders may appoint either the ATI Chairman or the President as proxy. Proxies should be submitted on or before 7pm of April 17, 2023. The duly accomplished scanned copy of the proxy (and other attachments, as applicable) may be uploaded by the stockholder upon registration or hard copies may be sent to the address below. Proxies will be validated on April 21, 2023 at the said address.

Office of the Corporate Secretary Asian Terminals, Inc. ATI Head Office, A. Bonifacio Drive Port Area, Manila, 1018

C) VOTING: All the agenda items indicated in the Notice will be set out in the ATI Voting Portal (“Voting Portal”). Voting shall be online and may be accessed using the unique passcode sent to the registered email. The Voting Portal shall be open from 9:00 am of April 17, 2023 up to 7:00 pm of April 25, 2023, in the link below: https://bit.ly/3q69lcl

1. Individual stockholder with shares recorded in their name: they may access the Voting Portal by providing the valid email address they used in the registration and the sent unique passcode. For stockholders with joint accounts only the stockholder who registered and was authorized by the joint stockholders shall vote by providing the valid email address they used in the registration and the unique passcode. Individual Stockholder under a broker/ PCD: they may access the Voting Portal by providing the valid email address they used in the registration and the unique passcode.

2. Corporate stockholder or broker. Either the ATI Chairman or the President may vote, as may be provided in the proxy.

The Office of the Corporate Secretary shall tabulate all votes received and the results shall be validated by R.G. Manabat and Co. Access to the Registration and Voting Portals shall be limited to the Office of Corporate Secretary, ATI IT Support Team, authorized representative of the stock and transfer agent and the R.G. Manabat and Co.

D. QUORUM: The following stockholders shall be deemed present for purposes of quorum:

a) whose registrations are validated.

b) who sent their accomplished proxies and validated

c) who voted from 9:00 am of April 17, 2023 up to 7:00 pm of April 25, 2023

E. PROCEEDINGS: The meeting will be held virtually on April 27, 2023 at 2pm, on the link https://bit.ly/ ATI_2023ASM Only stockholders whose registration were validated may access the meeting. Every item in the agenda for approval of the stockholders will be shown on the screen during the meeting

Li says China’s economy ‘showing strong’ momentum

BUSINESS

Big solar farm opens in Ilocos Norte

By Alena Mae S. Flores

CURRIMAO, Ilocos Norte—Nuevo Solar Energy Corp., a joint venture of MGen Renewable Energy Inc. and Singaporean firm Vena Energy, on Thursday inaugurated the $65-million (P3-billion) 68-megawatt Garcia 2 Solar Project in this town.

NSEC held the switch-on ceremony for the solar power plant on Thursday.

“There is a good synergy between our two companies, and we hope we can expand more,” Meralco PowerGen Corp. president and chief executive Jaime Azurin said. Meralco PowerGen is

IN BRIEF

GCG to submit stance on LandBank-DBP merger

THE Governance Commission for GOCCs, the central advisory, oversight and monitoring body for government-owned or -controlled corporations, said Thursday it will submit to the Office of the President its recommendation on the proposed merger of state-run Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines. GCG said in a statement legal concerns on the merger were raised by DBP in a sectoral meeting attended by the stakeholders.

“GCG will have to look into the specifics of the merger as it involves two major banks that are state owned. We want to ensure that the merger is seamless and will not disrupt or cause issues or concerns in their respective operations and processes,” GCG chairman Justice Alex Quiroz said.

“It is within the jurisdiction of GCG to ensure that the merger of LBP and DBP is beneficial to the state,” he said. Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said earlier the proposed merger was expected to result in savings of about P5 billion annually for the government. Julito G. Rada

Monde Nissin incurred

P13-b net loss in 2022

INSTANT noodle maker Monde Nissin Corp. reported a net loss of P13 billion in 2022, a sharp turnaround from the P3.24billion net income in 2021 after booking one-time impairment and restructuring costs for its meat alternative business.

Monde Nissin said it booked non-recurring net loss of P19.6 billion in 2022 primarily due to a non-cash, non-operating impairment of the intangible assets of Marlow Foods, which owns UK-based meat substitute producer Quorn Foods and Cauldron.

“The impairment was caused by the application of a higher discount rate due to the prevailing higher interest rates and risk premiums, some margin compression, and rationalization of the trend in the meat alternative category,” Monde Nissin chief executive Henry Soesanto said in a briefing.

“This impairment does not have any effect on the day-to-day operations of any of Monde Nissin’s businesses,” he said.

Attributable core net also declined by 19.6 percent in 2022 to P6.6 billion, driven by a decline in gross profit and increased logistical costs. Consolidated sales, however, grew 6.7 percent to P73.94 billion on higher sales in branded food group and strong recovery of domestic noodles.

Jenniffer B. Austria

NextPay processed P3.2-b digital transactions in 2022

FINANCE technology start-up NextPay said it processed P3.2 billion in digital transactions in 2022, up by more than 200 percent from 2021. The homegrown fintech firm served 3,800 growing businesses in the platform, with more than 32,000 employees and over 10,000 suppliers recorded.

“Our growth momentum has not only solidified our position in the market but has paved the way for a promising Series

A funding round in the second half of 2023, indicating a bright future ahead for NextPay,” said NextPay co-founder and chief executive Don Pansacola.

“We take great pride in achieving this significant milestone, which not only showcases NextPay’s remarkable success but also underscores the success of SMEs in the Philippines. Our optimism regarding the continuous expansion of digital banking solutions in the Philippines remains unwavering,” he said.

NextPay is seeking to invite more strategic partners to further its mission of providing accessible and innovative financing services to underserved markets.

Othel V. Campos

the power arm of power retailer Manila Electric Co. NSEC said the solar plant would contribute to the attainment of 35-percent renewable energy target mix by 2030 set by the government and provide additional power supply through MPower,

Meralco’s local electricity supply arm.

“Today, we embark on a new chapter in our partnership with Vena Energy as we start the commercial operations of NSEC. Powered by our shared aspiration to provide clean and sustainable energy, we are proud to have helped accelerate the country’s energy transition and shall continue investing in clean and sustainable energy sources,” Azurin said.

Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Joseph Marcos Manotoc pledged the local government’s continued support to NSEC “in their further expansion that we are already discussing.”

“We want to make it as easy as possible for NSEC, for we share our over-

arching and key goal of the renewable sector,” Manotoc said. He said Ilocos Norte is known as the wind energy capital of the Philippines, but solar energy would also play a crucial role to address the growing power needs of the province.

‘We see that these energy issues will only grow. Our energy demand and energy problems will only grow in the near future, and we are happy that we have a partner in NSEC that is addressing this as we speak,” Manotoc said.

Vena Energy Philippines head Samrinder Nehria the solar project marks a significant milestone in Vena Energy’s renewable energy portfolio in the Philippines.

Nehria said Vena and MGreen’s joint experience and expertise delivered the project successfully within 12 months.

Other officials who attended the event were Mayor Edward Quilala of Currimao, Vice Governor Cecilia AranetaMarcos of Ilocos Norte and Rep. Eugenio Angelo Barba of the Ilocos Norte second Congressional District.

The NSEC solar plant is a part of the larger initiative of MGen to build 1,500 MW of renewable energy projects in the next five years. MGen started its journey towards a balanced, low-carbon energy mix in 2021 through the opening of BulacanSol’s 55-MW solar plant in San Miguel, Bulacan.

PSE INDEX CLOSING

Thursday, March 30, 2023 13.78 PTS.

6,644.75

MGen Renewable Energy and

Business confidence picked up in first quarter—BSP

By Julito G. Rada

MORE companies expressed confidence the economy will perform better in the coming months amid the continued return to pre-pandemic normalcy, according to the latest Business Expectations Survey conducted by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. The overall business confidence index rose sharply to 34 percent in the first quarter from 23.9 percent in the fourth quarter of 2022. This means that the percentage of optimists increased and outweighed the percentage of pessimists.

“For Q1 2023, the more upbeat outlook of respondents was attributed to expectations of higher consumer demand for products and services, full reopening of the economy and return to pre-pandemic normalcy as more CO-

VID-19 restrictions are lifted, increased business activities and sustained economic recovery, and expansion and new business opportunities in healthcare, manufacturing and construction subsectors,” the BSP said.

The business sentiment for the second quarter of 2023 also turned more optimistic as the overall confidence index improved to 49 percent from 31.3 percent a quarter ago.

“With the full reopening of the economy due to the easing of pandemic restrictions, respondents’ more optimistic outlook for the next quarter was attributed primarily to expectations of higher volume of sales [such as food and beverages, electronic parts, computers and laptops, paint, garments, airline tickets, and loan products], improved business activities and operations and seasonal

DOE, Danish company sign $5b worth of offshore wind service contracts

THE Department of Energy on Thursday signed three offshore wind service contracts with combined capacity of 2,000 megawatts and investment value of $5 billion with Copenhagen Infrastructure New Markets Fund.

CINMF is the first 100-percent foreign-owned company to invest in the country’s OSW development.

“These agreements represent an additional strategic investment and a firm commitment to strengthen the renewable energy sector in the country, particularly the development of OSW. They provide a significant contribution towards a low carbon future as well as encourage the development of the local supply chain,” Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said.

The 25-year OSW contracts are expected to accelerate the implementation of the thrust of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to develop indigenous and renewable sources of energy.

CINMF, an affiliate of Danish fund manager Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, entered the Philippine market following the lifting of foreign ownership restrictions on RE development.

The three OSW projects will be developed in offshore Camarines Norte and Camarines Sur (1,000 MW), offshore of Northern Samar (650 MW) and offshore of Pangasinan and La Union (350 MW).

The DOE awarded 57 OSW SCs to date with a total potential capacity of about 42,000 MW that will be developed in the coming years.

uptick in demand over the summer months,” the BSP said.

It said that for the next 12 months, business sentiment turned more buoyant as the overall confidence index increased to 61.9 percent from the previous quarter’s survey result of 46.2 percent.

“The respondents’ more buoyant business confidence for the next 12 months was also attributed to their optimism about higher demand/sales, a fully reopened economy, better business conditions and new business opportunities,” the BSP said.

The Q1 2023 Business Expectations Survey was conducted from Jan. 13 to March 6, 2023, involving 1,554 firms surveyed nationwide, consisting of 582 companies in the National Capital Region and 972 firms in the provinces.

CONSTRUCTION TRADE

SHOW. Philippine Constructors Association Inc. president Junn Elepaño announces the staging of Philconstruct Luzon 2023 in Clark Freeport, Pampanga. This year’s iteration is the second hybrid format to be mounted simultaneously virtually and through VX Events, an online platform that expands reach to stakeholders and off-site participants. The three-day expo, from March 30 to April 1, aims to connect people in the building and construction industry to discover new opportunities and learn new innovations. The event has become a one-stop destination for all construction needs, attracting thousands of industry players. It will feature indoor and outdoor displays from various brands, ranging from small to the country’s largest suppliers and manufacturers. The show also includes a variety of construction seminars designed to keep attendees up to date on the latest industry trends.

The DOE aims to bring the RE share in the power generation mix to 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040 from 22 percent.

The three projects are expected to create around 4,500 jobs during the development and operations period, generate enough power to supply about one million households and offset about 2.9 million ton in carbon dioxide emissions a year.

Lotilla said CINMF, a dedicated fund manager with greenfield renewable energy investments and one of the global leaders in OSW, would bring in “financial muscle and technological heft and will be working with Filipino partners throughout the construction and operation phases.” Alena Mae S. Flores

Gov’t debt soared to all-time high of P13.75t in February

THE government’s outstanding debt swelled to a new record of P13.75 trillion as of end-February 2023, as it borrowed more to finance the budget deficit, the Bureau of the Treasury said Thursday.

Data showed the February debt level was higher than P13.70 trillion registered in January.

The Treasury said in a statement the national government’s total outstanding debt for the month increased by P54.26 billion or 0.4 percent “primarily due to the net issuance of domestic securities.”

It said of the total debt stock, 31.3 percent was sourced externally, while 68.7 percent represented domestic borrowings.

Domestic debt increased by 0.6 percent or P57.22 billion to P9.44 trillion as of end-February from the previous month due to the net availment of domestic financing amounting to P55.88 billion and the P1.34-billion effect of local currency depreciation against the US dollar on onshore foreign denominated securities.

Domestic debt also went up by P233.78 billion or 2.5 percent from the end-December 2022 level.

External debt declined by 0.1 percent or P2.96 billion to P4.31 trillion from the previous month due to the P21.15-billion net repayment of foreign loans and P32.32-billion impact of third-currency adjustments against the US dollar.

These outweighed the effect of local currency depreciation against the US dollar, which amounted to P50.51 billion. Compared to the end of December 2022, the country’s external debt increased by P100.12 billion or 2.4 percent, the Treasury said.

Julito G. Rada

DOTr taps Australian firm as consultant for MRT 4 traversing eastern part of NCR

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Department of Transportation said

Thursday it signed a consultancy contract with Ricardo Rail Australia Pty. Ltd. for Metro Rail Transit Line 4—a mass transit system that will serve the eastern section of Metro Manila.

It said the shadow operator consultant contract with Ricardo Rail Australia is a 12-month agreement that aims to identify, define and develop internationallyaccepted best practice operational and maintenance requirements of MRT-4.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said the experience and expertise of the shadow operator consultant would

help elevate MRT-4 operations to international standards.

Under the contract, Ricardo Rail Australia will prepare for handover to the operations and maintenance concessionaire and ensure that the designs of the engineering and architectural consultant are followed.

The MRT-4 project, which is an Asian Development Bank-funded big-ticket railway, will serve the eastern side of the metropolis and the highly-populated areas of Rizal province. The project is also expected to alleviate traffic problem along Ortigas Ave. in Pasig and Mandaluyong cities and encourage car users to take the train.

Vena Energy Philippines, through Nuevo Solar Energy Corp., inaugurate a 68-megawatt solar project in Currimao, Ilocos Norte. Leading the switch-on ceremony are (from left) Vena Energy Philippines investment head Westin Contreras, Currimao Mayor Edward Quilala, Vena Energy Philippines country head Samrinder Nehria, Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Joseph Marcos Manotoc, Ilocos Norte Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos, Meralco PowerGen president and chief executive Jaime Azurin and Meralco PowerGen executive vice president Dan Neil.

La Salle Archers welcome new players

THE La Salle Green Archers welcomed the inclusion of two homegrown talents, who have decided to stay on to play for their alma mater.

Green Archers’ coach Topex Robinson confirmed this after he accepted the com mitments made by De La Salle Zobel forward Rhyle Melencio and La Salle Green Hills point guard Ethan Alian early this week.

Robinson was impressed with Melencio, a member of the UAAP Season 85 Boys’ Basketball Mythical Team.

“I was surprised and impressed with the way he grew and improved. His scoring and rebounding show his potential and his dedication to growing into his craft. Hindi naman ‘yun tsamba dahil ginawa niya talaga ‘yun and that’s the result of his sacrifice for his growth,” said Robinson on Melencio, who averaged 17.4 points and 14.9 rebounds last season.

Cool Smashers back as PVL queens, whip Angels in 4 sets

CREAMLINE took the harder route, but still made it look quite easy in a sudden death, out-smarting the Petro Gazz Angels in the last two sets to carve out a 20-25, 25-20, 25-18, 25-15 victory and keep the Premier Volleyball League All Filipino crown before a boisterous crowd of 12,175 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena Thursday night.

Patience, determination and unrelenti ng hard work and passion brought the Cool Smashers back to the PVL throne after reeling from a disheartening stint in the Reinforced Conference—ruled by the Angels—last December that saw them miss the finals for the first time after seven cracks at the championship, five of which they won. “We missed the finals last year, pero nakabawi tayo this year,” said playmaker Jia de Guzman while addressing their horde of fans, whose faith in the Cool Smashers never waned even without injured skipper and top hitter

Alyssa Valdez in the epic series.

But for coach Sherwin Meneses, it’s the chemistry and dedication that anchored their successful title comeback in the centerpiece event of each PVL season.

“Kahit wala si Alyssa, ‘yung ibang outside hitters namin, nag-respond kaya nakuha naming ang championship. So, chemistry at ‘yung mga players, sobrang dedicated,” said Meneses who also cited the management’s all-out support throughout their campaign.

But it was their vaunted firepower and superb blocking that broke the match open in the pivotal third with

Meneses likewise coming through with a big ploy, inserting Risa Sato, who has embraced her new role with the same passion as when she was a starting middle, into the rotation.

The former National U stalwart provided not only clutch block points but also inspiration while playing to the crowd.

After shattering an 11-all count with a three-point blast, the Cool Smashers were never threatened, hiking their lead to 23-16 as the Angels got rattled and became tentative with their plays, leading to tight passes and enabling the Cool Smashers to stay in firm control.

The Angels overcame a four-point opening set blitz by the Cool Smashers in the fourth but the latter regained momentum and piled up points faster than the stats personnel could log them. Creamline raced to a 12-6 lead, took five of the next seven points and held sway to close out the championship on an 8-6 run. White confetti rained down the court after Jema Galanza unloaded her last kill into the heart of the Angels’

defense, it heralded the Cool Smashers’ return as the league’s undisputed queens, who swept the Angels in the 2019 and 2022 finals of the Open conference, now the All-Filipino.Despite the anti-climactic ending, it was a fivenight treat and feast of the best in women’s volleyball. Petro Gazz took the best-of-three series’ opener in epic fashion, 25-22, 2426, 25-23, 26-24, Sunday but Creamline forced the sudden death with an 18-25, 25-16, 25-18, 23-25, 15-6 escape in Game Two last Tuesday.

Galanza came away with 19 points, Michele Gumabao barely sustained her 19.5-point norm in the final with an 18hit production while Tots Carlos backed them up with 16 points on the night she nailed her third Conference MVP trophy. Ced Domingo added 12 points while Sato finished with six points. Solid blocking carried Petro Gazz in its big first-set win but the Angels failed to match the Cool Smashers’ assaults in the next three.

PH men’s hockey team ready for bigger challenge

By Peter Atencio

THE Philippine men’s ice hockey team hopes to make a bigger impression in the international scene after bagging the gold medal in the 2023 International Hockey Federation World Championship Division IV in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.

With the Philippines advancing to Division III with its 3-0 sweep of Division IV, plans are afoot to have the national squad join tougher matches in the near future.

Federation of Ice Hockey Philippines president Christopher Sy said this will be possible with Finnish coach Juhani Ijas calling the shots.

After spending the last three years in lockdown, Team Philippines was finally able to join the tournament for the first time. A 14-0 rout of Indonesia, followed by a 7-6 overtime win over Mongolia and

Coo vows to push for more sports events for women

By Randy Caluag

AFTER watching women paraathletes push themselves to their limits in the recent Sports Obstacle competition, Philippine Sports Commissioner Bong Coo vowed to push for more sports events for physically-challenged women.

“We want to empower our women, especially para-athletes,” said Coo at the Women in Uniform Obstacle Sports at Bridgetown in Pasig City.

The event was participated in by women athletes from different professions like education and medical field, as well as government enforce-

ment agencies such as the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine National Police and the Philippine Air Force.

“I’m very happy that more women are joining sports activities like these. We will continue to innovate and help our country produce more champion athletes on the global stage” added Coo.

Coo, who was the first PSC commissioner to be appointed by President Bongbong Marcos, has just finished several projects centering on women’s empowerment such as the Women’s Martial Arts Festival, Media Seminar for Women Athletes, and most recently, the Rubilen Amit Cup.

The world bowling Hall of Famer is tasked by the PSC to promote Women’s Sports. She will be holding more events, in coordination with the Philippine Women’s Commission, in the provinces of Ifugao, Cagayan de Oro, and Palawan.

That’s aside from handling 22 National Sports Associations under her care, most of which are preparing for the Southeast Asian Games.

“Sobrang busy na kami talaga dito sa PSC and it’s good naman na most recently, our board has been completed with the appointment of the fourth Commissioner. Mas marami na kaming magagawa,” she said.

a 5-1 stopping of Kuwait proved that the Filipinos are ready to move up to a higher division.

“It was a new experience for us. A lot of us have not experienced this cold weather in Mongolia and the altitude,” said team skipper Manville Billiones, who came from Pennsylvania in the United States and joined the squad back in 2019.

Billones was the leading scorer in the tournament with 12 points.

With the squad now moving up to Division III B in 2024, Ijas said coaching the team was an amazing experience.

“The players were really good as a team after they last played in the 2019 SEA Games,” said Ijas.

Among the scoring leaders next to Billones were Kenwrick Ze (11), Steven Fuglister (11) , Carl Montano (10) and Jan Regencia (6).

On the other hand, Alian is an 18-yearold, 6’1” point guard for the LSGH squad, which recently took runner-up honors in the National Collegiate Athletic Association junior cagefest, He averaged 12.08 points, 5.92 rebounds, 4.31 assists, and 1.62 steals for LSGH in their recent campaign.

“He is a guy who is willing to sacrifice the limelight for the success of his teammates. If you are looking for a player who is willing to give his power away for the good of others, that’s Ethan. That is the value he brings that impressed me the most,” added Robinson.

The Green Archers also got University of the East standout, 19-year-old Vhoris Marasigan, a 6’2” shooting guard.

Marasigan played for Batang Tiaong in the recent Smart-NBTC National Finals, norming 16.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists.

“’Yung path naman ni Vhoris is different. He took one step back, but two steps forward,” said Robinson.

The trio will join Jonnel Policarpio, Isaiah Phillips, and Matthew Rubico of Lyceum of the Philippines University-Cavite as the incoming freshman cagers of the Green Archers. Peter Atencio

UE stops UST tennis rampage with clinical 4-1 triumph

UNIVERSITY of the East avenged its close first-round defeat and handed University of Santo Tomas its first defeat in the UAAP Season 85 Men’s Tennis Tournament, Wednesday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in Malate, Manila.

Norman Gaspar came from behind against Erucjay Tangub, 3-6, 6-2, 6-4, to send the Red Warriors just half-a-tie behind leaders UST and Ateneo de Manila University in second at 6-2. The first loss by Tennisters sees them still in first albeit sharing it with the Blue Eagles at 6-1.

On March 25, Gaspar lost a close one against UST’s top gun Nilo Ledama, 4-6, 4-6, while Tangub paced the singles sweep for UST over Ryle Singson, 0-6, 6-4, 6-4, and like this last time, the Red Warriors took both the doubles matches.

Rastly Baje and Stephen Guia reasserted their mastery on Symon Jaculan, but this time with Nik Isagan, to take the second doubles match at 6-7, 6-2, 6-1, and effectively clinched the tie. Dawson Ormoc and Prince Lastimosa edged out Steven Sonsona and Geo Serino, 5-7, 7-5, 6-1, in the first doubles.

Ledama took the first singles for UST, 6-3, 6-3, but Marc Suson, playing singles this time, closed the rout for UE over Sebastian Santos 6-3, 6-1.

On the other courts, National University solidified its bid for a Final Four apperance as the defending champion also carved a 4-1 rout of still winless Adamson University.

Jules Lazaro took care Emmanuel Pedrosa in the second singles rubber, 4-6, 6-0, 6-4, to push the Bulldogs to a solo fourth at 5-3.

Later in that afternoon, University of the Philippines revived their own semifinals hope after a similar 4-1 decision over De La Salle University.

The Creamline Cool Smashers celebrate their PVL All Filipino title conquest.

GRAN COPA DE MANILA. The Metro Manila Turf Club will host the 24th Araw ng Maynila ‘Gran Copa de Manila’ Racing Festival on June 24. Shown after the signing of a memorandum of agreement at the Bulwagan Room of the Manila City Hall are (from left) Metro Manila Turf Club Racing Manager Rondy Prado, Manila Mayor Maria Sheilah ‘Honey’ Lacuna-Pangan and Philracom chairman Aurelio ‘Reli’ De Leon.

Lewis says he’d be with Mercedes till ‘last days’

MELBOURNE, Australia—

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton on Thursday emphatically put to bed any concerns that he wanted to leave Mercedes, saying he planned to be the team “till my last days”.

The Briton’s disappointment after the season-opening grand prix in Bahrain, where he finished a distant fifth in his under-performing W14 car, led to claims that he was set to seek a move elsewhere.

He insisted that was not the case after a more competitive race in Saudi Arabia a fortnight ago.

And to make it crystal clear, the 38-year-old said ahead of the Australian Grand Prix that he wanted to finish his career with the once all-conquering Silver Arrows.

“I feel amazing about it (the future), I continue to feel very, very much at home, it’s a family,” he said in Melbourne of remaining with a team that has been his home for a decade.

“I see myself being with Mercedes until my last days.

“If you look at the legends, Sir Stirling Moss was with Mercedes till the end of his days, and that’s been the dream for me, to one day have that. I mean, I have that, so just continue on with that, con-

tinue to build with the brand.”

Hamilton’s first race for Mercedes was in Melbourne in 2013, and he has since delivered them an unprecedented 82 wins and 77 pole positions. He said he had “amazing

allies” within the team and “great relationships here”.

“I think for me personally, just so long as I continue to help the team, as long as I can continue to help drive the team forward, to contribute, then that’s

Top juniors resume hunt in PPS Valle Verde tennis

THE leading juniors and a slew of rising stars from the Big City and elsewhere take center stage as they clash for top honors and ranking points in the PPS-PEPP Valle Verde Country Club National Juniors Tennis Championships, which got under way Thursday (Thursday) in Pasig.

More than 200 entries make up the huge cast in the nine age-category Group I tournament presented by Dunlop with the boys’ 14-, 16- and 18-and-under classes luring 32-player casts each.

why I want to stay.

“If there’s ever a point where I feel like I’m not able to do that then it’s time for a youngster to come in.

“But I’m still feeling pretty young and in decent shape.” AFP

2 pairs wrest control in Southwoods Invitational

THE Shinichi Suzuki-Teruhisa Taguchi and Justin Tambunting-Eric Escalona tandems posted 82s to share the overall gross lead even as the battle for the overall net crown headed to a wild finish with 10 teams matching 96s in the second day of the Southwoods Invitational at the Masters and Legends courses in Carmona, Cavite yesterday.

The Shinichi-Teruhisa and the Tambunting-Escalona pairs took a two-point lead over the teams of Gen. Alex Ignacio-Edwin Sanchez and Marvin Caparros-Stephen King Stehmeier, who came through with identical 80s in Best Ball play at the Masters with John Molina and Regis Casquejo, and Brixton Aw and Raymond Co, who matched 76s, out to press their respective bids when action shifts to the Legends for the Aggregate format.

But focus is on the overall net race as 10 pairs, headed by Molina-Casquejo and Renie Floro and Kazuo Murakami, scored 96 points each, also in four-ball at the Masters. They include John Cope and Iain Mcglen, Arsenic Villanueva and Diosdado Bautista, Bobby Iñigo and Venzon Paz, Inigo Golingay Jr. and Rolando Rabutin, Karlo Miguel and Juan Carlos Reyes, John Lopez and Kenney Tee, Gus Molina and Luis Rey Velasco, and Adrian Tan and James Lim.

HD Spikers shoot for title sweep vs Cotabato

A FIRED-UP Cignal side sets out for the crowning glory to a historic Spikers’ Turf campaign, shooting not just for a sweep of Cotabato in their best-ofthree title duel but the entire Open Conference at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum Friday.

Gametime is at 5:30 p.m. with the HD Spikers all primed to cap a sterling unbeaten campaign they kicked off with a dominant run in the elims and sustained with an equally-empathic showing in the round-robin semis.

They did go through some anxious moments in the title series’ opener but the HD Spikers showed poise and class to repel and frustrate the Cotabato Spikers, hacking out a 25-22, 25-22, 28-26 victory last Wednesday.

That stretched their remarkable run to 14 although Cignal coach Dexter Clamor has stressed the need for his wards to work doubly harder to achieve the feat.

“We will work harder, paghahandaan namin yung Game Two lalo na ang dami nilang options, marami silang palitan, so lahat ng tendencies, lahat ng substitutions, lahat ng strength nila na nakita namin for this game pagaaralan namin,” said Clamor.

Marck Espejo, who unloaded a 26-point game against the Cotabato Spikers, is expected to spearhead the HD Spikers’ assault again, along with JP Bugaoan, Wendell Miguel and skipper Ysay Marasigan along with Peter Torres, Alfred Valbuena and playmaker EJ Casana.

But the Cotabato Spikers believe they have what it takes to stop the HD Spikers with Jau Umandal, Rex Intal, Andre Medina, Madzlan Gampong, Lloyd Josafat, Jayvee Sumagaysay, Vince Mangulabnan and Fil-Am Steven Rotter vowing to spring a surprise to foil their rivals’ historic bid.

Meanwhile, Iloilo also seeks to Imus-Ivy Tuason Photography in their side of the best-of-three for the bronze at 3 p.m.

Meanwhile, the Molina-Casquelo, and Floro-Murakami duos likewise tied for the Division I lead, two points ahead of Ryan Abdon and Wally Barzaga, while Marc Naval and Miguel de Asis stayed on top of Division II with 84 points, spiked by Naval’s ace at the Legends Wednesday,

But Pablo Olivarez and Roberto Ronin Leviste stalked them with 83 Aggregate points while Julienne Guintu and Samuel Gan Nasis took the third spot with 80 points as the battle moves to the Masters under the Best Ball format of the member-guest team event backed by year-round sponsor Royal Caribbean/Baron Travel, hole-in-one sponsors Ogawa, Alpine Motors Philippines, Toyota Silang, Pagcor Casino Filipino and Klio International.

Two teams, meanwhile, took charge with in Division III with identical 84 points in hot conditions at the Legends, including Richard Chua and Fernando Lim, and Dennis Chan and Ariel Ong, while the pairs of Cope-Mcglen, Villanueva-Bautista, Inigo-Paz, Golingay Jr.-Rabutin, and Molina-Velasco’s 96 points tied them for the Division IV lead after Day 2 of the four-day tournament.

Miguel and Reyes, Lopez and Tee, Tan and Lim, and Willy Tee Ten and Fritz Jerrold Lacap, and Robert Tan and Ronald Bairan paced Division V with their 96 points.

Melchor Bacsa and Alexander Festejo, meanwhile, combined for 84 points at Legends to get past Anthony See and Christopher Ilagan, who scored 81 points, and wrest the lead in the Sponsor/Guest division with Gerwin Chan and Jon Baron, and Eimie Hedeager and Sarah Cruz producing identical 80 points.

Backing the annual event are (Platinum sponsors)

The Turf Company, Inc., CWC International Corp. and Newport World Resorts; (gold) Agrexplore Corp., Alpha Quality (GFX) Leads Agriculture/Malveda Properties

Development Corp., Mikro-Tech Capital, Inc./Capital

One Energy, Inc., The Manor and The Forest Lodge at Camp John Hay; and (silver) Abomar Equipment Sales Corp., Club Leisure Management Corp., First Global Conglomerate, Camaya Coast, Le Chef, Inc., Mit-Air, Inc. and Prestige Golf Access & Clubshares, Inc.

Making up the bronze sponsors list are Absolute Sales Corp., Ayala Land Premier, Boeing Material Handling Corp., Camp John Hay Golf Club, Castillo Laman Tan Pantaleon & San Jose Law Offices, Coca-Cola Beverages Phil., Escala Tagaytay, Federal Management & Maintenance, Inc., Forest Hills Golf and Country Club, Gamboa & Sons, Inc. (GranSportivo), GG&A Clubshares, G&W Clubshares, Golforce, Inc., GolfX;

No surprise there

THE Philippine Azkals lost their two tune-up games in the Middle East recently. The first was a 2-0 defeat to Kuwait at the Jaber Al Ahmad Stadium in Kuwait City, followed by a 4-0 drubbing from Jordan at the Al Wakrah Stadium in Doha, Qatar.

And as expected, loyal Azkals fans expressed their disappointment over the results. Which is nothing new and is always the case whenever the team suffers losses. We have probably elevated the national men’s football team to a certain pedestal that every game, even if it is a just tune-up or a friendly, the Azkals are expected to put up a good game as a basic requirement, but a win is a must, and a loss guarantees bashing to kingdom come.

Most Azkals fans, especially the young ones, are not used to seeing the team suffer big losses such as what happened in Kuwait City and in Doha. They are not used to seeing the team lose. Period. And they are not fond of seeing and hearing the team, the players and the management make excuses either.

Former Azkals’ team captain and now part of the coaching staff Stephan Schröck said they expected the criticisms and the backlash of yet another sorry outing of the squad. He said he is not going to make an excuse, but only asked that he be heard of what happened before and during the West Asia camp.

“Fifteen players who were originally invited to join us in Kuwait and Qatar couldn’t make it because of injuries, personal reasons and club duties. So obviously, if there are 15 players missing in the squad, there was a quality loss right away. So we tried to fill in the spots with young players so that they could gain experience at the international level. It is really hard to push for a good result when you are missing 15 players,” Schröck explained.

Schröck said several players begged off days

before the departure to Kuwait and by then it was too late to send another round of invites, prepare the necessary documents and visas for the players. He said that during the actual games, only 20 players suited up for the Kuwait match and only 18 for the game against Jordan. Even during the camp, some players suffered injuries while a few more were not able to play because they had to be released to their clubs. Schrock said it was the first time that he saw that so many Azkals were not able to come to a training camp.

“We had four injuries in a matter of two hours, players calling the Azkals’ management team saying that they just pulled their hamstrings so we have to find replacements right away. We also needed to release Manny (Ott) and Kevin (Ingreso) to club duties. We can demand for them to stay during the FIFA window, but that won’t be smart to destroy relationships in terms of future qualification tournaments. And obviously, club football is their bread and butter,” Schröck said. Despite the setbacks, the many concerns and issues that the team had to deal with, Schröck said there were several takeaways from the Middle East trip.

Schröck said he was very happy with the way Santi Rublico, John Lucero, Miguel Mendoza, Dennis Chung and the other youngsters responded.

“We have an 18-year-old starting in the two games. A 19-year-old getting his first cap. People are asking why this player is not called up, why this player is missing, but we have to make do with what we have. We are very thankful for the players who showed up and to those who did their best to join the team even if they were sick and took care of their own visa requirements just to be with us,” Schröck said.

Another thing that is worth mentioning is the fact that the team is full of young players ready to carry the flag and country in future competitions. All they need to do is to be healthy and remain injury free.

Schrock, who just arrived yesterday morning from the Middle East camp, said the Azkals are keeping an eye on at least 20-25 players in the local league, along with 25-30 more players based abroad for future camps. He said he is hopeful that once they are called, they are not injured, they don’t have personal issues to deal with, their contracts with their mother clubs are secured,

Tristan Licayan, Lexious Cruz, Gavin Kraut, Zachary Morales, Gabrio Serillo and Yñigo Naredo banner the 14-U field, while Kendrick Bona, Paul Gabriel, Licayan and Morales, along with Kean Enriquez and Kraut looming as the players to watch in the 16-U division.

Vince Serna, Mateo Rivas, Ivan Manila and Thomas Bernardo brace for a spirited battle in the premier division of the event under the country’s longest talent-search put up by Palawan Pawnshop president/CEO Bobby Castro.

The title chase in the distaff side is also expected to be wide-open with Chloe Mercado, Jelena Jana, Beatrice Panganiban and Sandra Bautista gearing up for a challenging week as they lead the field in both the 16and 18-U divisions.

Maristella Torrecampo, Ave Policarpio, Francesca Ong and Dania Bulanadi, on the other hand, are in for a fierce battle in the girls’ 14-U class with Torrecampo also eyeing a “twinkill” as she is also the top seed in the 12-U play of the event backed by ProtekTODO, PalawanPay, the Unified Tennis Philippines and UTR (Universal Tennis Rating).

For details, contact tournament organizer Bobby Mangunay at 0915-4046464.

Leading the boys’ 12-U cast are Serillo, siblings Alexandre and Aaron Coyiuto and Mikael Honrado while Naseem Serillo, Sofia Miramontes, Stella Policarpio and Juliana Coyiuto are tipped to dispute the 10-unisex trophy.

and their teams are not fighting relegation in their respective leagues. In an ideal scenario, they should all be available to don the national kit, whether here in the country or abroad.

“It is very, very easy to say a judgment or a comment on the call-ups but there were a lot of things that happened there. Some people only see the squad list, they only see the results but they don’t know the entire process that was behind it. What I’m asking is to trust the management on what they are doing because they put a lot of work and effort to assemble the best possible team,” Schröck added.

Schröck, however, agrees to comment that the Azkals need to have more tune-up games and more time together in the future. He says comments that the Azkals can’t just go to competitions with no preparation at all are valid and on point. One can’t simply expect the team to win or get some good results against opponents that have been together for a long period of time.

While I share some of Schröck’s points, I also feel the anger and the disappointments of the Azkal diehards. How can we see the potential of the young generation if they don’t have the opportunities to show what they can do on a regular basis? Two games in several months will not be enough. They need more games, a good plan for the next two years or more is needed. There is also a need to continue to look for future Azkals all over the world, but without taking for granted those who are playing well in the domestic league. And if I may add, we already know the players who should not be invited in future camps.

These are just a few observations that we have in mind. More to come in the coming days. On a personal note, don’t you just hate screenshots with no explanations as to what they are all about? To those who are so fond of doing this, please include some short explanation for context next time so that everyone gets to understand your point or your intention in doing so.

Please don’t forget to join us this Sunday, April 02, 2023 from 2 to 3 p.m. for another episode of 3PTS–Pambansang Tambayan ng Sports aired live over at DZME 1530 khz. Stay safe. Stay happy peeps!

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

A mechanic works on Mercedes’ British driver Lewis Hamilton car ahead of the 2023 Formula One Australian Grand Prix at the Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne. AFP

ACTRESS Yassi

Pressman

portrays distinctive dual roles as Kuring and Daphne in the series Kurdapya , which premiered on March 18 on TV5.

Inspired by Pablo S. Gomez ’s popular classic, the series follows the journey of two long-lost twins who reunite in a strange accident after living vastly different lives.

The estranged twins come from different backgrounds: Kuring who is a provincial girl obsessed with vlogging and Daphne a seemingly perfect socialite but an underappreciated daughter. By fate, the two will meet and a plan to switch with each other

hatches, and thus goes the funny yet endearing story of

As the story unfolds, viewers will witness the funny misadventures of Kuring and Daphne as they try to escape their current realities by switching identities, navigating through life's

One of Yassi’s roles is Daphne, a seemingly perfect socialite

‘Kurdapya’ Yassi Pressman essays challenging roles of polar opposites in lighthearted drama

challenges, and coming faceto-face with their past. The remake is helmed by director Easy Ferrer , his first comedy series project with both TV5 and VIVA TV. The original movie was headlined by the biggest names in classic Pinoy showbiz, like Gloria Romero , Ramon Revilla Sr. Ric Rodrigo Eddy Garcia , and Comedy King Dolphy Exploring the themes of family, love, and selfdiscovery, Kurdapya also stars Marco Gumabao as Carlos, Kuring's childhood friend and the apple of her eye; Nikko Natividad as the nouveau rich and “ jojologin ” Tadeo, who was handpicked by Daphne's father to be her suitor; Ryza Cenon as the gold-digging girlfriend of Daphne’s

father; Katya Santos as Kuring’s strict and ambitious aunt; Candy Pangilinan as the funny ex-con mom of Kuring and Daphne; and Lander Vera-Perez as the twins’ father.

This generation’s version of Kurdapya sees both new and familiar faces from the VAA family of artists.

Fresh from his string of movies launched earlier this year including Spellbound (with Bela Padilla ), Martyr or Murderer , and Baby Boy, Baby Girl (with Kylie Verzosa ), Marco Gumabao is part of the cast as Kuring’s love interest, Carlos.

On the flip side, comedic actor Nikko Natividad plays Tadeo, the nouveau rich but jologs suitor of Daphne. The two actors bring kilig to the twins’ respective love lives. Since we’re seeing two sides of Yassi, trouble will also double for her in this series. Led by Ryza Cenon as the young and beautiful gold digger girlfriend of the twins’ father, and by Katya Santos who plays Kuring’s depraved aunt, together they will be the main antagonists in each of the

Tax specialist vies for Mrs. Tourism Queen International crown

cooperation with DSWD.

“The purpose of life is a life of purpose,” said Morales, who started her program with the kids even before she joined the pageant. She was motivated to pursue her mission after going through the pain and hardship she experienced while helping her mother fight cancer.

“My mother surviving cancer has made my passion for helping the poor communities stronger,” Morales added. Binibining Pilipinas beauties showcase sustainable fashion

twins’ lives. Together with them are Akihiro Blanco who plays Daphne’s cousin plotting against the family business, and Jela Cuenca as Katya’s daughter who is equally as menacing as her mother. Fresh faces are also joining the cast, touted as the next generation of Viva’s stars, these young actors are set to debut their acting chops in the comedy series and add to the fun and complications of Kuring’s and Daphne’s lives. The love team of Heart Ryan and Tomas Rodriguez provide additional kilig to viewers. Coming from their debut film this year, Girlfriend Na Pwede Na they now take on the role of Kuring’s probinsiyana BFF Trina and Daphne’s cousin Enzo who eventually falls for Trina. Both Heart and Tomas started out with P-Pop groups under Viva. Heart is known as a Tiktok celebrity with over four million

Yassi also brings life to Kuring, a provincial girl obsessed with vlogging

followers and is now expanding her acting capabilities while Tomas is an active member of P-Pop group, Alamat. Other new gen young stars to join are the next teen heartthrobs to watch out for. Collectively known as RTurn, Keagan de Jesus, Charles Law, and Kurt Delos Reyes endear and entertain viewers as a trio of waiters and cooks that serve at Kuring and Daphne’s usual meeting place. Kurdapya promises to be a funfilled family show for everyone to enjoy. The series airs on TV5 every Saturday at 6:00 p.m., with catchup episodes on Sari Sari channel every Sunday 8:00 p.m.

…are talking about PEOPLE

‘It’s Showtime’

PEOPLE love watching kids’ antics on national television. But sometimes, they forget that kids also have problems that could impact their developmental growth. Kulot’s tearful confession on It’s Showtime tugged people’s hearts because of how negatively her father’s unfaithfulness affected her. Though most people would find the situation awkward during a noontime variety show, the hosts handled the circumstance well and diverted the audience’s attention. However, may the child’s revelation be a wake-up call to parents.

Andrea Brillantes

ONE beauty of pageantry is it discovers women from different fields. Case in point, Maria Loren DC Garcia, a 30-yearold employee at the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Batangas was handpicked to represent the Philippines in Mrs. Tourism Queen International 2023 to be held in Nonkhai, Thailand from April 8 to 16.

A native of Rosario, Batangas, Garcia holds a degree in Banking and Finance from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) and finished her Post Graduate Studies (MBA) at Philippine Christian University.

Married with three kids, she advocates the promotion of breastfeeding among mothers.

Garcia is busy preparing now for her pasarela, national costume, long gown, and other aspects needed for the international competition. She’s tapping local designers for her planned costume and gowns. She was officially appointed by MegaStar Productions’ Ovette Ricalde national director for the Philippine franchise.

Top Model Philippines returns

Not to be confused with Miss Supermodel Philippines and Supermodel International Philippines, Top Model Philippines is back with the launching of this year’s search for the country’s representative in the Top Model of the World pageant.

Top Model Philippines’ highest achievement was Michelle De Leon's 1st runner-up finish in 2007 to Brazilian model Natalia Guimarães, but eventually assumed the title when the latter resigned

to participate in Miss Universe 2007, wherein she finished 1st Runner-up to Riyo Mori of Japan.

The launching was led by Eduardo ‘Doods’ Domingo, national director of the World Beauty Organization (WBO) Top Model Philippines. Present at the event were Atty. Angie Gonzaga, head of Legal Department of MWBO Top Model Philippines, and early applicants, Querubin Gonzales, Janny Medina, Kathlene Hannah Duran, and Angel Bianca Agustin

The pageant promotes inclusivity opening the contest to Filipino women 17 to 32 years old, single, married or single mother, and at least 5'6" tall. Coronation is set at UP Theater Diliman on August 10.

A meaningful occasion

The ever-generous Avon Morales, Mrs. Asia Pacific Global 2019, celebrated her birthday with the orphan children of the DSWD Social Development Center. Morales has made it a mission to hold a party for the kids during her birthday, in

In line with Women's Month and Earth Hour celebrations, Araneta City staged the Women Reinvent sustainable fashion show at Farmers Plaza on March 24.

The “City of Firsts” tapped Binibining Pilipinas International 2021 Hannah Arnold and the Binibining Pilipinas 2023 candidates to strut the runway in masterful creations of Filipino designers crafted from eco-friendly materials.

The Binibinis showcased the amazing collection of 12 local artisans who specialize in unique sustainable designs, as well as accessories by Tina Campos Jewelry and Christopher Munar, bags by Ma. Delza's Native Product, and shoes by Aishe Fashion –all of whom are making a mark in the local fashion industry with their creative sustainable products, made by women for women.

The fashion show showcased the sustainable designs of PNay Russ Cuevas Adam Balasa James O'Briant Peñaflorida Atelier, Christine Lam Kutur ni Jean, and Justine Aliman

Araneta City’s “Women Reinvent” sustainable fashion show opens the series of public events and activities of Binibining Pilipinas 2023 at the City of Firsts leading to the coronation night in May.

The event also marks the participation of Araneta City in the global Earth Hour campaign happening on March 25. The City of Firsts will join the hour-long energy conservation with its lights off event. There is also the POP QC Eco Market and bicycle phone charging station in Ali Mall, and a Trade-A-Bag promo in Farmers Plaza.

THE Blackpink two-day concert was the weekend’s highlight, with fans from all walks of life showing their support. During the event, Andrea took the opportunity to “prompose” or ask her beau, Ricci Rivero, to go to prom with her. Young love is often refreshing, but the effort struck the wrong chord with Blackpink fans and other young netizens. But besides her star status in showbiz, Andrea is still human and a fan, like everyone else, so making her first prom memorable is no crime.

…are not talking about

Ping Lacson

AS Rachel Green said in Friends, “No uterus, no opinion.” Yet it seems the former senator didn’t know about it because he couldn’t help commenting on the proposed Menstrual Leave Act. Most people, especially men, don’t understand that menstruation causes extreme uneasiness in women and often manifests in physical discomfort. If bleeding monthly and feeling like being gut punched by a jackhammer isn’t enough to gain public concern, then how can we as a society say that the Philippines is embracing inclusivity?

Ericka Villongco

FOLLOWING the James Reid and Issa Pressman “jowa reveal,” Ericka posted cryptic messages on Instagram hinting that what goes around comes around. At this point, netizens focused on how the revelation coincided with James and Nadine Lustre’s relationship timeline, so they disregarded Ericka’s because they didn’t believe she was a victim in the entire connection.

Afternoon soap ‘Abot Kamay Na Pangarap’ teases more plot twists and characters

ABOT Kamay Na Pangarap welcomes new cast members and offers more exciting twists every afternoon.

The drama soap is headlined by Carmina Villarroel as Lyneth, Richard Yap as Doc RJ, and Jillian Ward as Doc Analyn.

Seasoned artists Dina Bonnevie as Giselle, the intimidating elder sister of Doc RJ, and Leo Martinez as Pepe, Doc RJ’s wealthy yet simple estranged father, are the newest cast members who add spice to the lives of Doc Analyn, Doc RJ, and Lyneth.

While Doc RJ is away to continue his treatment abroad, Giselle temporarily acts as the CEO of APEX Medical Hospital. As the story continues, Giselle’s character remains an enigma. Is she really a friend or foe of Analyn?

Giselle also favors Doc Zoey (Kazel Kinouchi) without knowing that she is an illegitimate child of Doc RJ after Moira (Pinky Amador) secretly cheats on him.

How will Analyn face the harsh treatment of Giselle?

When will Doc RJ return and expose the truth that Moira was the one who put his life in danger?

Recently, viewers also witnessed the special participation of Gabby Eigenmann as Benny, the arrogant celebrity chef; Jamir Zabarte as Darwin, the gay son of Benny; and Archie Alemania as Lando, the bomber who threatened APEX Medical Hospital.

Completing the star-studded cast are Dominic Ochoa as Michael, Andre Paras as Dr. Luke, Chuckie Dreyfus as Dr. Ray, Denise Barbacena as Dr. Eula, Wilma Doesnt as Josa, Ariel Villasanta as Cromwell, Dexter Doria as Susan, Jeff Moses as Regan, Alexandra Mendez as Jhoanne, and John Vic De Guzman as Dr. Ken. Abot Kamay Na Pangarap – under the helm of LA Madridejos – airs Monday to Saturday at 2:30 p.m. on GMA Afternoon Prime.

Nickie Wang

Maria Loren DC Garcia, a 30-year-old employee at the Bureau of Internal Revenue in Batangas, is the Philippines representative in Mrs. Tourism Queen International 2023

Lead actresses of ‘Abot Kamay Na Pangarap’ Carmina Villaroel (left) and Jillian Ward

the two.

Bo’s Coffee opens biggest Philippine store in war-torn Marawi

BO’S Coffee opens the biggest Philippine store in Marawi City in Mindanao staking a long-term commitment to the city’s post-war rehabilitation.

The grand 250-seater café is set to serve its signature coffee and favorites in the Philippines’ southern regions intending to translate these famously rich and homegrown flavors into warm hugs and doses of hope to a people continuing to rebuild Marawi.

With a whopping 882.56 sqm

concept and design carefully took into consideration and weaved in Marawi’s notable sense of connectedness to its community that is rich in spiritual and cultural histories.

Inspirations were taken from the Sarimanok, the Malong, and the Torogan House. The legendary Sarimanok, a ubiquitous symbol of Maranao art lends its colors to the interiors with a subtle, playful approach. The fabric on the ceiling and walls instead of the usual

furniture cover uses the Malong, the traditional garment of mainland Mindanao. The Torogan house traditionally symbolizing high social status, is reflected in the ceiling and bar counters in a modernized design approach. All these start and end with the 360-degree panoramic view of Marawi City. While happiness is assured in a cup of Bo’s Coffee even in the direst of post-war situations, the brand’s presence in Marawi more importantly ensures the provision of employment

How ‘Three Good Things’ can make you happy

�ast Sunday, my grad school class- �ast classmates and I had the privilege of “having lunch” with Dr. Seligman over Zoom, and for 60 minutes, he generously answered queries nonstop and shared tons of food for thought. It was always worth skipping my usual nap time during class. His energy is contagious and I could only wish I would live out the same passion and touch numerous lives in the coming years.

Touch lives, he surely does. And one simple yet impactful contribution he has made in my life is the Three Good Things

AT 80, Dr. Martin Seligman, also known as the “father of Positive Psychology,” shows no sign of retiring anytime soon. After decades of conducting lectures and authoring bestselling books, his sharpness and passion for what he does are awe-inspiring.

The Three Good Things is an easyto-do exercise that anyone can do daily before going to bed. It requires simply writing down three good things that happened to you during the day and why they happened. Keeping track of positive events, no matter how mundane they may seem, gets rid of negativity bias or our inclination to focus on the negative and helps create the habit of capturing positive moments in our lives.

Here’s a quick breakdown in case you

want to try the exercise as we get into reflective mode next week:

1. Think of three good things that happened today, no matter how simple.

2. Write them down in a notebook or record them on your phone.

3. Take time to reflect on what happened and the possible reasons why (even just for 15-20 seconds).

Understanding “why” you consider something as a good thing happening in your life is crucial as it brings to your attention what sparks joy or positive emotions in you. Constantly keeping track of your preferences also creates selfawareness. Having a good grasp of what you want can make you work on getting more of it.

This exercise has been scientifically proven to create a positive impact on a person’s well-being by cultivating an attitude of gratitude and optimism. Try it for a week first and experience how things become second nature. You may eventually find yourself naturally spotting even beyond just three good things.

Customers can enjoy a good cup of coffee in Bo’s comfy interior

Marawi churn its economy, Bo’s Coffee provides its people with longterm livelihood aside from a worldclass coffee experience. For 27 years, Bo’s Coffee has promised its market delicious and homegrown products and it has been able to achieve such promise because of the richness and diversity of resources all over the Philippines. But in times of war and calamities, the communities that serve as gatekeepers to these resources take the brunt of the damage and deserve long-term support from all sectors of society that get to use these resources.

‘Three Good Things’ is an easy-to-do exercise that anyone can do daily before going to bed

Sheer touch from The Body Shop

AT A TIME when Filipinas today embrace and appreciate multitasking, The Body Shop’s �ip and Cheek Stain has been a customer favorite ever since.

Just as women balance career and family, work and school, or simply juggling the many different assignments in the office, this hardworking beauty product that highlights both one’s lips and cheeks.

The good news is that the �ip and Cheek stain is now even better today.

Welcome The Body Shop’s Sheer Touch.

Swipe on that natural-looking flushed color with this make-up multi-tasker for eyes, lips, and cheeks. Glow with its lightweight and long-lasting 12-hour moisturization. Better still, especially for the eco-conscious, it comes in a recycled glass bottle.

Marvelously multi-tasking, The Body Shop’s Sheer Touch is available at The Body Shop stores and on its online store www.thebodyshop.com.ph

Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH) is an online community of "mompreneurs" who want to build and grow their own online business while taking care of their family’s needs

Mom entrepreneurs share success stories on digital platform

THE future of Philippine entrepreneurship is female and digital. P�DT Home harnesses the power of the country’s fastest broadband internet provider by supporting Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH), an online community of “mompreneurs” who want to build and grow their own online business while taking care of their family’s needs at home. At present, there are 153,000 community members who regularly share ideas and knowledge, and offer each other advice, encouragement, and inspiration. The group has helped many of its members grow their side hustles into booming online home businesses that have allowed them to support and build dreams for their families.

The group became not only a go-to space for digital business tools, basic and necessary knowledge and skills training, and networking opportunities, but it also became an emotional and mental support system. MMPH believes in the importance of giving recognition to the passion and resilience that the members have shown all throughout their entrepreneurial journey, especially during the pandemic.

Hence, MMPH launched the Gawad Madiskarte Awards in 2022 to highlight and celebrate the most outstanding mompreneurs in the community. The winners were rewarded with more of the support that they need to expand their businesses further and their stories serve as an inspiration to mompreneurs who are working hard to reach their own dreams of success.

Mompreneurs who inspire

For mompreneur and Diskarteng Solid Award winner Abigail Madrigal, support from many people is always crucial when trying to get a business off the ground. She sold highquality bedsheets on online selling platforms while balancing a full-time job and raising a toddler during the pandemic.

“I started this business with the capital of P10,000 – equivalent to 50 yards of fabric in five designs that were sewn by my Nanay. Now, we have the house next to ours as a production area, with rolls and thousand yards of fabrics in almost 100+ designs,” she shared.

“MMPH gave me the important backing that I needed when I was starting. This platform landed me several clients and the word-frommouth created from these transactions started the growth and reputation of my store, Mommy Matters. The posts that I read in the group also inspired me to work better on my venture,” Abigail said.

Kaylynn Adolfo of The Asian Mommy is a Diskarteng Eco-Friendly winner for her line of locally-made reusable cloth diapers. Her business follows her staunch zero-waste advocacy, exemplified by reusable diapers and environmentally friendly packaging.

Kaylynn learned that the network of likeminded people you meet can also be your biggest supporters and customers. “Through

the Madiskarte Moms community, I have met moms that are now my suppliers,” she said. “I have also taken advice from other moms that have helped my brand flourish. The group has also helped me find customers multiple times.”

Protecting the environment is likewise the advocacy of Rosanna Dela Cruz Kabiling of Something Nice Environmental Corp., a winner of the Diskarteng May Puso award, whose biggest lesson was that committing to a good cause can bring you success.

Her business deals with the proper transport, treatment, and disposal of hazardous waste; and reducing, reusing, and recycling scrap material for local and multinational companies. She values the supportive network that she has built with MMPH.

“I am happy to see a lot of mommies today who are open-minded enough to start their own business and who are fulfilling their dreams. The group helps me to realize how blessed I am,” Rosanna said.

Madiskarte Mom Theresa Carbonell Buenaflor of Ellana Mineral Cosmetics was chosen for the Diskarteng Digital award, for using social media platforms to reach her customer base with her skincare, body care, and makeup products. Her inspiring insight is that one should always use technology and digital trends for better chances of success.

“MMPH helped us believe that there are still good people out there who support our brand, especially during the challenges of the pandemic,” Theresa said. “I’m grateful for the support and reception of this group because it helped me believe that there are still good people out there who can support each other in these tough times.”

Lou Neri Putian was the 2022 Diskarteng Home Biz winner. She has emerged successful with her Sy Glow cosmetics and skincare products that are available through direct sales. She was able to thrive and properly manage her home business despite being a full-time mom raising her three kids, proving that with some diskarte and the right motivation, it is never impossible for moms to balance a business and being a mother.

“I was inspired by the other Madiskarte Moms of the group in growing my business, which I juggled together with taking care of my kids at home,” she says.

P�DT Home aims to support the online community further and help empower more women to achieve business success.

P�DT Home is set to hold the second Gawad Madiskarte Awards in May 2023 to recognize the Madiskarteng Pinays who have shown excellence in growing their online home businesses and positive attitude in helping and inspiring other fellow mompreneurs. To know more about this year’s Gawad Madiskarte Awards, join the Madiskarte Moms PH online community here: https://pldthome.info/ GawadMadiskarteWomensMonth2023

The facade of Bo’s Coffee in Marawi