Manila Standard - 2023 April 13 - Thursday

MORE TOWNS SUSPEND CLASSES TODAY AS TD ‘AMANG’ LINGERS

By Rio N. Araja and Joel E. Zurbano

MORE local government units suspend-

ed classes today as Tropical Depression

“Amang” flooded several areas and is poised to dump heavy rain over parts of Luzon, maintaining its strength even after making several landfalls in Camarines Sur on Wednesday afternoon, the weather bureau said.

Laguna Governor Ramil Hernandez suspended classes for all levels for Thursday, with the towns of Lopez in

Quezon, Montalban in Rizal, and Santo Tomas in Batangas following suit.

On Wednesday, Camarines Sur Gov. Luigi Villafuerte also declared classes suspended, with Naga City (CamSur), Calamba City, Liliw, Mabitac, Pangil, Santa Maria, and Pagsanjan (all in Laguna) also shutting schools along with most towns in Quezon Province and some in Rizal, Bulacan, and Nueva Ecija.

In its latest bulletin last night, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical Next page

US, PH cast security roadmap

China nixes SCS ruling anew, says ‘pandering’ to cause tensions

By Charles Dantes, Rey Requejo, Vince Lopez and Macon Ramos-Araneta

TOP Philippine and American officials are ironing out a road map of US security assistance to the country covering the next five to 10 years.

Meanwhile, China expressed Wednesday through its foreign ministry its “serious concern and disapproval” of the joint statement released by the Philippines and the United States on the 2016 Arbitral Award, Beijing maintained its “indisputable sovereign-

Chinese leader says troops must boost training for ‘actual combat’

BEIJING—China’s President Xi Jinping called on the country’s armed forces to “strengthen military training oriented towards actual combat”, state media reported Wednesday after Beijing conducted military drills intended to intimidate Taiwan. Xi’s comments, made on a naval inspection trip on Tuesday, come amid heightened tension in the re -

gion after the show of force by Beijing, which sees self-ruled Taiwan as its territory.

China on Monday concluded three days of military drills launched in response to a visit last week by Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen to the United States, where she met a bipartisan group of lawmakers and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

Xi on Tuesday told the People’s Liberation Army’s Southern Theatre Command Navy that the military must “resolutely defend China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime interests, and strive to protect overall peripheral stability”, state broadcaster CCTV reported.

PBBM approval rating dips, but still high in poll

By Vince Lopez

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PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s approval ratings dropped four points due to public dissatisfaction over high prices, but he remains popular, the latest Pulse Asia survey showed.

The survey found that 78 percent of 1,200 respondents polled in March approved of Marcos’ performance, lower than the 82 percent he got in November. Some 80 percent said they trusted the President, down from

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THE Philippines will offer the second COVID-19 booster to the public, the Department of Health announced Wednesday, allowing more Filipinos to get additional protection against the virus.

Assessment Council, we can now use the vaccines we have as second booster for the general population or our health adults,” DOH officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire said in a press briefing. Only vulnerable groups such as healthcare workers and the elderly were allowed to receive the fourth jab last year. THE

Commission on

of the 2022 national elections,

low the agency to crack down on the use of online cash transfers for those activities.

Comelec defends accuracy of 2022 elections, seeks redefinition of rules

BALIKATAN DRILLS. Philippine Army and US Army Pacific soldiers hold a platoon live-fire exercise at Range 5, Camp Ernesto Rabina Air Base in Capas, Tarlac, while

DA to reactivate El Nino task force

By Othel V. Campos and Maricel V. Cruz

THE Department of Agriculture is planning to reactivate the inter-agency El Niño Task Force to strengthen measures against the expected drought next year to the agriculture and fisheries sector.

Under the 2023 El Niño Mitigation and Adaptation Plan, the DA will roll out strategies that aim to lessen the impact of the El Niño phenomenon on the agriculture and fishery industries and restore productivity in affected areas.

The government intends to put up more water-related infrastructure such as hydroelectric power plants, flood control projects, and irrigation systems. An overall plan to change the way water

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and Astronomical Services Administration said an accumulated 50 to 100 mm of rainfall is expected until Thursday morning in Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and Quezon.

Calabarzon, Metro Manila, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and the southern portion of Aurora will also experience an accumulated rainfall of 50 to 100 mm in the next three days, the weather agency said.

This amount of rainfall is equal to 50 to 100 liters of rain in a square meter area in 24 hours, ABS-CBN News resident meteorologist Ariel Rojas said.

PAGASA warned that heavy rainfall from Amang could spawn isolated flash floods and landslides.

Amang was packing maximum sustained winds of 45 kilometers per hour near the center and 55 kph gusts. It is moving north-northwestward at 10 kph.

PAGASA raised signal no. 1 over the following areas, where 39 to 61 kph winds could cause minimal to minor threat to life and property:

Catanduanes; Sorsogon (City of Sorsogon, Pilar, Castilla, Donsol, Barcelona, Magallanes, Gubat, Casiguran, Juban, Prieto Diaz); Albay;

Camarines Sur; Camarines Norte; Laguna (Cavinti, Lumban, Kalayaan, Paete, Pakil, Pangil, Siniloan, Famy, Santa Maria, Mabitac);

Aurora; Quezon (Buenavista, Calauag, Infanta, Lopez, Guinayangan, Plaridel, Quezon, Alabat, Sampaloc, Mauban, General Nakar, Perez, Gumaca, Atimonan, Real, San Narciso, Tagkawayan) including Polillo Islands; Rizal (Tanay, Pililla, Rodriguez, Baras, City of Antipolo); Bulacan (Norzagaray, Doña Remedios Trinidad); and Nueva Ecija (Gabaldon, Bongabon, Laur, General Tinio).

PAGASA said Amang was expected to move northwestward in the next 12 hours and expected to pass over the eastern localities in Camarines Sur, Lamon Bay, and Quezon.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) on Wednesday assured the public that it is ready for Amang’s potential impact on airports in the Bicol Region, Northern Samar and the northern part of Eastern Samar.

“The CAAP has activated its contingency plans for severe weather disturbances in order to ensure the safety of all passengers and airport personnel in case of flight disruptions due to the tropical depression,” said CAAP spokesperson Eric Apolonio.

He said the authority is also closely coordinating with airline operators and other concerned agencies to minimize hazard and impact, and ensure the efficient resumption of flight operations once weather conditions permit.

The Department of Agriculture, too, said it was ready for the possible effects of Amang.

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83 percent in the earlier poll.

Since taking office in June 2022, President Marcos has had to grapple with inflation that has soared to levels not seen in 14 years due largely to rising food and fuel costs.

Inflation slowed for a second straight month in March to 7.6 percent but remained well above the government’s 2 percent to 4 percent target for the year.

Controlling costs of living was the top concern of 63 percent of respondents.

Slightly more than half, or 52 percent, of respondents disapproved of the government’s handling of inflation, with 25 percent saying they approved, while the rest were undecided.

supply is acquired will also be explored, according to the DA.

This developed as Rep. Paolo Duterte of Davao City on Wednesday pushed for the passage of a measure that aims to establish the Department of Water Resources (DWR) as the lead agency tasked to secure the country’s supply of water and effectively manage the delivery of the vital resource.

At the same time, Duterte said the

measure should include the creation of a Water Trust Fund (WTF) in the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr), which the proposed DWR can tap to fund water sustainability projects.

House Bill 3727, which Duterte filed with Benguet Rep. Eric Yap, seeks to address concerns over a looming water and sanitation crisis in the country by creating the DWR and the Water Regulatory Commission (WRC).

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration had earlier said that El Niño may persist until 2024.

Based on the six-month rainfall forecast data of the DOST-PAGASA last March 22, at least 16 provinces in Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas,

IN BRIEF

PBBM OKs single OS for gov’t transactions

Zamboanga Peninsula, the CARAGA Administrative Region, and CALABARZON, particularly the province of Quezon, will be affected by the prolonged dry season.

Part of the government’s master plan to address El Niño is to save the vulnerable areas through appropriate water management, while irrecoverable areas will be rehabilitated.

The DA will likewise maximize water production in non-threatened areas, with massive information dissemination across locations to be undertaken.

To ensure water supply will be managed efficiently during the dry spell, the DA encourages the adaptation of the alternate wetting and drying (AWD) method.

US, PH seek civil nuclear pact to reduce emissions

THE United States is looking to forge a civil nuclear cooperation deal with the Philippines as the latter pushes to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday.

The US will be “providing technical assistance and regulatory guidance to support the growth of the Philippines’ civil nuclear energy program,” Blinken

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, of the delivery of “priority defense platforms” that include drones, radar, military transport aircraft, and coastal and air defense systems.

“At today’s meeting, we redoubled our commitment to modernizing the Philippine-US alliance, recognizing that our partnership will need to play a stronger role in preserving an international law-based international order. This means ensuring the conduct of high-level and high-impact, high-value joint exercises, training, and other related activities,” Manolo said.

“We especially welcome the United States pledge to fast-track and to ramp up support for the modernization of our defense, civilian law enforcement, and humanitarian assistance and disaster response capabilities, especially in the maritime domain, as well as the implementation of EDCA (Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement) projects and investments in and around EDCAagreed locations,’ he added.

The United States on Tuesday promised to defend the Philippines in the dispute-rife South China Sea as the allies launched their largest-ever joint exercises in the face of Beijing’s growing assertiveness in the region.

But Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said last night: “Pandering to countries outside the region will not result in greater se -

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Beijing has also criticized a plan for US forces to use a growing number of bases in the Philippines, including one near Taiwan (see banner story – Editors).

The United States and the Philippines are holding their largest-ever joint military drills this week, with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken committing to “standing with the Philippines against any intimidation or coercion, including in the South China Sea”.

Xi added Tuesday that China must be “innovative in its concepts and methods of combat”.

Marcos’ approval ratings were slightly lower than the 83 percent that his vice president, Sara Duterte-Carpio, got in March. Duterte, daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, currently serves as Education secretary, while Marcos heads the Agriculture department.

In the same survey, 61 percent of respondents approved of President Marcos’ governance in terms of “defending the integrity of Philippine territory against foreigners”, up from 58 percent in November.

In the same poll, the top leaders of both chambers of Congress -- Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and House of Representatives Speaker Ferdinand Romualdez enjoyed the same majority approval score of 51 percent.

said in a press conference in Washington.

“We’re looking to grow our cooperation through a 123 Agreement on civil nuclear cooperation which will make it easier for us to share technical knowledge as well as nuclear material and equipment,” he said.

The United States’ 123 Agreement is “a legally binding framework for peaceful nuclear cooperation between the US

curity. It will simply cause tensions, put regional peace and stability at risk, and eventually backfire.”

“The so-called South China Sea arbitral award is against international law. It is illegal, null, and void, and China does not recognize it. We are ready to properly manage maritime disputes if there are negotiations, but we will firmly uphold our sovereignty and maritime rights,” Wang added.

As to the US military sites in the Philippines, Wang said: “I’ve stated our position. Action speaks louder than words. The location of the new sites speaks fully of their intention.”

The Asia-Pacific is the common home of countries in the region. Our region’s peace and stability hinges on trust, solidarity, and cooperation and requires that we, as members of this region, take our security firmly in our own hands.”

Austin said it was too early to discuss what specific assets the US would put in the new EDCA locations and military sites.

Based on reports, US security experts said that the Philippines is a potential location for rockets, missiles, and artillery systems to counter any external forces in the Philippines’ territorial waters. In a related development, the country expressed its confidence in its alliance with the United States despite reports of leaks of highly classified intelligence information from the Pentagon, showing that the US could be spying on its allies, including the Philippines. In a joint press conference on the PH-

Disputed waters

China and Taiwan split following a civil war in 1949.

Beijing views the democratic island as part of its territory and has vowed to take it one day, stepping up its rhetoric and military activity around the island in recent years.

The PLA simulated targeted strikes and a blockade of Taiwan during its recent three-day “Joint Sword” exercise.

Taiwan’s defense ministry said it continued to detect Chinese warships and aircraft around the island even after drills officially concluded.

Beijing warned this week that Taiwanese independence and cross-strait peace were “mutually exclusive”, blaming Taipei and unnamed “foreign forc-

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The DOH also warned that the daily COVID-19 cases in the country may reach up to 600 by mid-May if the minimum public health standards will not be complied with.

Based on the latest projections as of April 11, the daily cases may increase to 289 up to 611 nationwide by May 15, according to Vergeire.

Vergeire said these projections were based on factors including the transmission rate, level of vaccination, and compliance with minimum public health standards.

She said at least 30 to 122 daily cases are also seen in the National Capital Region (NCR) by May 15.

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved the creation of a single operating system for all government transactions to ensure ease of doing business in the country.

During a sectoral meeting on improving bureaucratic efficiency, President Marcos said different agencies working on a code or policy must consider the differences between the national bureaucracy and various local government units (LGUs).

“There are technological reasons, as well as political and local considerations to comply with the law and the government has to deal with those issues,” the President said.

“I think it may help when you’re writing the code or when you’re putting the system together, you’re going to have to think about the differences between the national bureaucracy and the different LGUs,” Mr. Marcos said. Vince Lopez

and [its] partners,” according to the US Department of State website.

“The criteria require 123 agreements to legally obligate our partners to observe specific standards in a multitude of areas including peaceful uses… and prohibitions on enriching, reprocessing, and transfer of specific material and equipment without our consent,” it read. With Vince Lopez

US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, Blinken, Austin, Manalo, and Galvez were asked to comment on the series of documents, purportedly containing classified information about the Ukraine war, Russia, and allies of the United States, that were apparently leaked online.

Some of the documents first appeared on the social media platform Discord as early as January, but US intelligence officials reportedly only knew about the existence of the documents this April.

However, Manalo expressed confidence in the Philippines’ alliance with the United States despite allegations that Washington could be “spying” on its key allies, such as South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, and Israel.

Unlike his predecessor, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has sought to strengthen ties with the United States.

Marcos assured China, however, that the new EDCA sites in the country would not be used in aggressive and offensive actions, but to improve the nation’s defenses and disaster response.

Nearly 18,000 troops are taking part in the annual exercises dubbed Balikatan, or “shoulder to shoulder” in Filipino, which for the first time will include a live-fire drill in the South China Sea, which Beijing claims almost entirely.

In a press briefing Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said that President Marcos had been invited to witness the military exercises. He said he was not sure if the President would accept the invitation but said he “showed great interest” in the live-fire drill.

es” supporting it for the tensions.

Washington has been deliberately ambiguous on whether it would defend Taiwan militarily.

It has, however, sold weapons to Taipei for decades to help ensure its selfdefense, and offered political support.

China claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea -- a strategic waterway through which trillions of dollars in trade pass annually -- despite an international court ruling that the assertion has no legal basis.

The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei all have overlapping claims in the sea, while the United States sends naval vessels through it to assert freedom of navigation rights in international waters. AFP

“But as we always say, these are projections, these are not cast in stone. At least we are guided by these projections,” Vergeire said at a media forum.

As of March 16, some 78.4 million Filipinos are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Of the figure, over 23.8 million have received their first booster dose while almost 4.4 million have gotten the second booster shots.

Vergeire said the intensive care units (ICU) and severe and critical admissions have been on a “plateau” since early February, while the utilization rates have remained at “low risk.”

“As of April 9, 2023, there were 378 of our severe and critical cases which make up 10.22 percent of our total admissions remaining to be less than 20 percent of our total COVID-19 admis-

for appeal

ICC’s Khan nixes PH grounds

INTERNATIONAL Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim Khan has rejected the grounds raised by the Philippine government in its appeal before the ICC Appeals Chamber, opposing the country’s move to halt the ICC probe.

In a 59-page submission dated April 4, Khan said the Philippines “failed to show any error in the Decision” of the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber authorizing the resumption of the drug war probe.

“[T]he Prosecution respectfully requests the Appeals Chamber to reject the Appeal and confirm the Pre-Trial Chamber’s authorization of the resumption of the Prosecution’s investigation in the Situation in the Philippines pursuant to Article 18(2) of the [Rome] Statute,” he said in an ABS-CBN report.

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showed a nearly perfect accuracy rate.

The election critics are looking for some 20 million votes in last year’s national and local elections, but Comelec said the system only transmits the results of the voting, not the actual vote.

Laudiangco told the Kapihan sa Manila Bay they have granted the public access to the transmission logs, while looking for a new technology for the midterm elections in 2025.

Comelec has created a committee to coordinate with law enforcement agencies to address vote-buying and vote-selling in the country, Laudiangco said.

“We launched Task Force Kontra Bigay in 2019 and we also formed it for the 2022 elections. This is only an ad hoc task force. Right now, it is already a formal committee. It will be called the Committee on Kontra Bigay. So, there will be a dedicated Comelec office which will focus on addressing vote-buying,” Laudiangco told the forum.

While they created a committee against vote-buying, Laudiangco appealed to Congress to revisit the definition of vote-buying and vote-selling.

Citing his experience in the Comelec Law Department, Laudiangco said the poll body is having a hard time linking the evidence of vote-buying to the candidates.

Vote-buying and vote-selling are considered election offenses under Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code. Vito Barcelo

sions since January of 2022,” she said.

Deaths have also been on a “downward” trend, with only “one case of death due to COVID-19” recorded in March 2023, Vergeire added.

Meanwhile, Vergeire said the total number of unvaccinated cases increased last March 2023 by 13 percent compared to February 2023.

The DOH chief said 11 percent of unvaccinated admissions resulted in deaths.

She said over 78.4 million Filipinos have been fully vaccinated, while 7.2 million senior citizens are already inoculated, as of March 16, 2023.

Over 10.2 million adolescents are fully vaccinated, while more than 1.2 million are already boosted, and more than 5.6 million children are fully vaccinated, Vergeire said. Willie Casas

Review of K to 12 program looms as solons agree graduates lack skills

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

Maricel V. Cruz

and

SENATOR Grace Poe on Wednesday stressed the need to revisit the K to 12 education program, adding that the government and the private sector must exert serious effort to “address the seeming lack of job readiness of graduates which could impede their employment.”

At the House of Representatives, Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda agreed with the findings of a recent situational report by the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) that students who finished their schooling during the pandemic did not have the needed “soft skills,” including those related to empathy, creativity, resilience and communication.

Poe said both soft skills and technical expertise were keys to landing quality jobs amid tight competition.

“Ten years after it was implemented, we believe the K to 12 curriculum needs an honest-to-goodness review to determine the enhancements needed to make it more responsive and relevant to the needs

IN BRIEF

ECOP nixes pleas to raise minimum wage

THE Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) on Wednesday rejected proposals to raise the minimum wage to P750, saying only a few workers will benefit from this in the long run.

The current daily minimum wage in Metro Manila is between P533 and P570, but the Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives filed a bill seeking to raise this to P750 in the private sector to “enable employees to cope with inflation.”

A labor group in Calabarzon has also filed a petition raising the minimum wage to P750.

ECOP president Sergio Ortiz Luis said workers in the informal sector stand to lose on this “problematic” proposal, as they make up the majority of the country’s workforce.

“Hindi lang naman iyong maliliit na employer ang maaapektuhan diyan – ang buong bayan,” Luis said on national television.

“Akala mo magandang pakinggan— tataasan ang suweldo pero maliit na porsiyento lang iyong apektado,” Ortiz asserted, adding that only 16 percent of the country’s nearly 50 million workers will benefit from the minimum wage increase.

Ortiz raised concerns for the remaining 84 percent, who do not have their own employers.

“Kapag tinaasan mo iyong suweldo noong mga minimum earners siyempre sino ang magtataas ng suweldo ng tricycle driver, sino ang magtataas ng suweldo noong mga farm workers, iyong mga market vendors, iyong mga ano – iyon ang hindi nakikita,” Ortiz explained.

THE Social Security System (SSS) has kicked off its first Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) campaign in Mandaluyong City through the issuance of notices to 12 delinquent employers who have allegedly incurred more than P57 million in unpaid contributions and penalties.

SSS president and chief executive officer Rolando Macasaet said the owners of the establishments that received the show-cause orders were given 15 days to coordinate with SSS New Panaderos branch and explain why the pension fund should not take any legal action against them.

“The RACE activity in Mandaluyong City is part of our nationwide campaign to ensure the social security coverage of members and enhance SSS collection efficiency,” Macasaet said.

SSS executive vice president for branch operations Voltaire Agas reminded the affected employers of their legal obligation under Republic Act No. 11199 or the Social Security Act of 2018 to report their employees to SSS and remit the corresponding monthly contributions of their workers.

“We appeal to these employers to religiously remit the monthly SSS contributions of their employees. If they neglect their duties, their employees will not qualify for the benefits they are entitled to claim because of insufficient contributions or their contribution records are not updated,” he noted.

THE incidence of dengue infections during the first quarter of 2023 has risen by 94 percent compared to the figure during the same period last year, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

DOH records showed that from January 1 to March 18, 2023, dengue cases nationwide totaled 27,670 compared to 14,278 during the first quarter of 2022.

The National Capital Region led in the tallying, followed by Central Luzon, and Davao regions.

A total of 92 dengue patients reportedly died over the past three months.

The DOH urged the public to follow the 4S anti-dengue rules, referring to search and destroy mosquito-breeding sites, secure self-protection measures, seek early consultation, and support fogging and spraying.

of our students,” Poe said.

The lawmaker also hoped that concerned government agencies would make the review a priority, adding that the findings also be useful for the joint congressional oversight committee on the K to 12 program.

“We owe it to our learners to deliver on the promise of quality education and sustainable jobs,” Poe said.

For Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara, the lack of soft skills was already a problem of the graduates even before the pandemic.

“It’s one of the concerns our educational system needs to address going forward, alongside poor reading comprehension, among others,” Angara said.

He pointed out that parents must also do their part as much as possible, “though this is difficult with OFW parents and other realities on the ground.”

For his part, Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III said he was alarmed with lots of things happening in the country.

Pimentel noted that young Filipino adults also have difficulties in buying or owning a house.

41 UP profs join opposition vs. Vistan

OPPOSITION to the appointment of lawyer

Edgardo Carlo Vistan as chancellor of the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City continued to mount as senior faculty and professors of the state-run school circulated an open letter questioning his qualifi cations to occupy the post.

At least 41 professors emeriti, as well as incumbent and former officials of the UP system signed the position paper.

“We are disheartened at the outcome and the manner by which the Board of Regents (BOR) decided on the chancellorship of the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) in utter disregard of the overwhelming sentiments and choice of the UP com-

munity,” the letter stated.

The note came a week after Vistan, an assistant professor who joined UP Diliman in 2015 and had served two years as dean of the College of Law, was appointed to the top academic and administrative position in UP Diliman by the 11-man BOR in an executive session and through alleged secret balloting.

Vistan’s closest rival was Dr. Fidel Nemenzo who, as chancellor from

2020-202ti led UP Diliman through the pandemic and was perceived as the frontrunner, having gotten the endorsements of colleges and members of the community. On April 1, four regents, including the student, faculty, and staff representatives, publicly declared their support for Nemenzo.

The signatories also compared the academic and administrative qualifi cations of the three nominees, which included Dr. Victor Paz of the School of Archaeology, and opined that the BOR chose “the most junior candidate with the least experience, preparation, and credentials to lead a community of accomplished academics and researchers across 27 colleges and disciplines.”

“This selection simply defi es logic and goes against the standards of aca-

demic meritocracy—which we judge ourselves by—as well as elementary standards of good governance, and basic principles of organizational management,” their letter read.

The signatories also noted the emerging pattern of choosing UP’s leadership: “The fact that the three most senior academic offi cials of our University—the Chancellor, the Vice President for Academic Affairs, and your good self—do not hold PhDs will not go unnoticed in the international community, especially in this age of ever-rising academic standards. This is not to say that you cannot be up to doing your jobs; but it will be a challenge to dispel the impression that academic achievements come secondary to other factors in UP,” the letter added.

Jinggoy eyes reforms in publication of laws to widen scope of readership

SENATOR Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada says the publication of all laws should have an online version in the Official Gazette and should be published in the newspapers.

Estrada has filed Senate Bill 1645 mandating the inclusion of publication of laws in the online version of the Official Gazette and in newspapers of general circulation among the legal and recognized format and channel of publication of laws of the country.

The measure essentially seeks amendment to the Civil Code and Administrative Code of 1987.

Estrada stressed the need to update the implementation of new laws, presidential issuances, and implementing rules and regulations (IRRs) with the times insofar as information dissemination is concerned.

With the revolutionary impact of information technologies that removed all communication barriers, Estrada said greater efficiency could be achieved if the public

was well informed on new policies being enforced by the government.

“Ignorance of the law is no excuse and in this internet-driven information age, everything is quickly and widely disseminated,” he said.

To address the limited readership and erratic release of the Official Gazette, Estrada’s bill also proposed to authorize the adjustments in publication requirements of a newly-signed law, if it’s intended to respond to a national emergency situation.

Laws take effect after 15 days following the completion of their publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation in the country.

The publication is an indispensable requirement to comply with due process and this covers all statutes enacted by Congress, presidential issuances—orders, proclamations, circulars, etc.—and IRRs of laws. Macon Ramos-Araneta

Debates on Cha-cha rage with some academe members chiming in

By Maricel V. Cruz

NUMEROUS members of the academe have expressed support for the House of Representatives’ initiative to change the “restrictive” economic provisions of the Constitution so the country could attract more foreign investments.

Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, chair of the Committee on Constitutional Amendments, said at least eight college and university professors favored amending the Charter, while three others and one student leader opposed it.

“We are heartened by their support for our push for an improved investment and economic climate in the country. As the Speaker has repeated declared, economic reform in the Charter would be the final piece in the puzzle

for this push,” Rodriguez said.

He said the members of the academe gave their testimonies in recent hearings conducted by his committee.

Rodriguez said several members of the Cabinet of President Marcos led by Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno also supported the House initiative.

Ateneo de Manila University international economic law professor Anthony Abad said the Philippines was the only country that wrote investment restrictions in its Constitution.

“It is the legislature that should set the rules on investment restriction…because you need the dynamism of the 21st century,” Abad said. He said there was “no science” in prescribing investment limitations in the Charter.

“It doesn’t work. So you should abolish the 60/40

Ex-Mayor Bautista faces P57-m graft raps

By Rio N. Araja

FORMER Quezon City Mayor Herbert

Bautista is facing two complaints of graft and corruption before the Office of the Ombudsman. His city administrator then, Aldrin Cuña, was also implicated in the alleged anomalous P25-million solar power installation and computerization projects in 2019.

Bautista and Cuña allegedly awarded the contract and release of the P25.3million payment to Cygnet Energy and Power Asia Inc. for the solar power system and waterproofing works for the Quezon City Civic Center building despite Cygnet’s failure to secure a net metering system from the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco).

The requirement was stipulated in the terms of reference and the sup-

ply and delivery agreement for the project.

Another graft complaint was filed against the two former city officials involving a P32-million project awarded to Geodata Solutions Inc. for the procurement of an online occupational permitting and tracking system without a specific appropriation ordinance enacted by the city councilors.

The Ombudsman said Bautista and Cuna violated Sec. 3 of the Anti Graft and Corrupt Practices Act or “Giving any private party any unwarranted benefits, advantage or preference in the discharge of his official administrative or judicial functions through manifest partiality, evident bad faith or gross inexcusable negligence.”

The Ombudsman recommended a bail bond of P90,000 for each complaint.

system, the 70/30 system and shift it to a system of proper government oversight,” he added.

Former National Security Adviser Clarita Carlos said the country’s basic law “is no longer producing the kinds of desired results, then you do something about it.”

“So, when to amend it? I say, let’s do it now,” she said.

University of the Philippines (UP) economics professor emeritus Raul Fabella said a new Constitution “should satisfy a modicum of aesthetics…meaning, it has to be short and pithy, preferably noble written.”

“It is there to inspire us to thoughtful patriotism, not just any kind of patriotism but a thoughtful one. To that effect, it should thus contain the vision and just the basic principles that must guide the pursuit of that vision,” Fabella said.

He suggested deleting some parts of the Charter.

TYPHOONREADY. Acting on orders by Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, personnel of the Malabon Disaster Risk Reduction and Management O ce gear up with their equipment in anticipation of the likelihood of a tropical storm Amang and any untoward incidents it may bring to the city.

Andrew Rabulan

CHANGING OF THE GUARD. Bureau Correction chief Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. turns over the ag of command to Sr. Insp. Puri cation Hari who takes over as superintendent of the maximum security compound in the National Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City. Joseph Muego

RODEO PH-STYLE. The forthcoming 27th Festival of the Rodeo Masbateño promises to be more exciting with the grant of P2 million in nancial assistance by the Masbate provincial government. Robert Gines

SSS rolls out drive vs. delinquent employers

PH dengue cases up 94% this year—DOH

‘Fishing industry loses P19m daily due to oil spill’

THE Philippine fishing industry is losing close to P19 million daily as the massive oil spill in Oriental Mindoro drags on, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) reported.

This developed as Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant Admiral Artemio Abu said the oil spill from the sunken tanker MT Princess Empress has been “significantly controlled,” he told a Department of Justice forum yesterday.

BFAR chief information officer Nazario Briguera, quoted by ABS-CBN News, said the oil spill has displaced some 26,382 fishermen.

“Based on our estimate, the average income loss per day for one municipal fisherfolk is about P714,” he said. “If we’re going to compute that, we’re losing about P19 million per day for all those affected municipalities, including those in Caluya, Antique.”

In 22 fishing days for example, the sector will lose around P400 million due to the oil spill, the official added.

The BFAR asserted that a fishing ban was necessary after oil was found in fish and water samples from places affected by the spill.

“Right now, we stand by our recommendation that the local government units should continue imposing fishing ban to really have an assurance about the public safety,” Briguera, in the ABS-CBN News report, said.

Earlier this week, BFAR identified alternative fishing sites for fisherfolk affected by the 6-week oil spill.

For municipal boats, locals can fish in Paluan, Abra de Ilog, San Jose and Magsaysay in Occidental Mindoro and in Marinduque.

Further, the BFAR said it has recommended the fishing bans in oil spill-hit municipalities in Oriental Mindoro after finding lowlevel contaminants or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in the fish samples.

The BFAR said the fish samples were collected and analyzed on March 10. Likewise, seaweeds collected and analyzed from select sites in Caluya, Antique, on March 9 also showed PAH, GMA News reported.

“The results were consistent with the findings of the DA-BFAR in its first and second batch of analyses, that is, minimal amounts of PAH levels were present in seafood collected from sampling sites in Oriental Mindoro,” a BFAR statement, quoted by GMA News, said.

“Despite low-level amounts found in the samples, the Bureau recommends keeping fishing bans in oil spill-hit municipalities in Oriental Mindoro since the initial analyses are not yet conclusive evidence as far as food safety is concerned,” it added.

The DA-BFAR also recommended retaining harvesting bans on seaweeds in Caluya, Antique, until further evaluation shows they are safe for public consumption. Meanwhile, the agency continuously analyzes and monitors the area to establish time-series results on the oil spill’s impact on food safety.

MT Princess Empress sank on February 28 off Najuan, Oriental Mindoro while carrying 900,000 liters of industrial fuel.

BFAR on Wednesday estimated the income loss due to the oil spill to be already at P388 million. Meanwhile, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on Tuesday said it plans to provide alternative livelihood training to the 2,000 affected fisherfolk in Oriental Mindoro.

BOC reports filing of 65 smuggling cases

By Vito Barcelo

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has filed 65 criminal charges against suspected smugglers before the Department of Justice (DOJ), as the agency intensified its fight against all forms of smuggling in the country.

Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said a majority of the complaints filed with the justice department include agricultural products, fuel, food, cigarettes, general merchandise, and used clothing. Rubio said the BOC’s efforts to combat smuggling have been significantly improved in recent months.

“The Bureau of Customs remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguard our country’s borders and to protect our

GLAM SHOTS. Binibining Pilipinas candidates sign their giant portraits during the unveiling of the Binibing Pilipinas 2023 glam shot photo exhibit at the Gateway Mall in Araneta City on Wednesday. The exhibit is open until April 19.

IN BRIEF

Suspects in fatal hazing of student plead not guilty

THE accused in the fatal hazing of Adamson University student John Matthew Salilig pleaded not guilty to hazing charges before the Biñan Regional Trial Court, a report from GMA News said.

This was confirmed by the panel of prosecutors to GMA News Online. Prosecutors said the accused attended the hearing through videoconferencing and that one of the accused filed a petition for bail, GMA News reported.

According to the prosecutors, the pretrial hearing is set on May 3 while the bail hearing will be held on May 17 at the Biñan RTC.

The case stemmed from the complaint for violation of the Anti-Hazing Law against Tau Gamma Phi fraternity members Earl Anthony Romero, Jerome Balot, Sandro Victorino, Michael Lambert Ritalde, Mark Pedrosa, master initiator Daniel Perry, and grand triskelion Tung Cheng Teng.

The complaint was submitted for resolution in early March. The body of Salilig, 24, was found in a shallow grave in Imus, Cavite, on February 28, ten days after he was reported missing.

No ‘serial killer’ in Tondo, Manila police spox says

THE Manila Police District (MPD) denied reports of an alleged “serial killer" in Tondo following a string of fatal shooting incidents, calling the reports “fake news.”

“The allegation that there was a serial killer in Tondo is fake news,” MPD spokesperson Police Major Phillip Ines told GMA News Online.

According to Ines, the recent shooting was allegedly related to the illegal drug trade.

MPD chief Police Brigadier General Andre Dizon told GMA News Online that they monitored at least two shooting incidents in Tondo on April 9 and 10 which resulted in the deaths of two victims.

Dizon said these separate incidents involved the same shooter.

“The shootings were successive. Both were related to illegal drugs. Two victims

but there was only one shooter,” he said. On April 9, the MPD said 20-year-old Ruel Yabao was found lifeless with two gunshot wounds on Nepa Street in Barangay 142 in Tondo.

On April 10, a pedicab driver identified as Noel Mirano was waiting for passengers on the same street when the suspect shot him.

Authorities are now conducting a followup operation on the shooting incidents.

Ex-governor Teves denies ownership of seized guns

FORMER Negros Oriental Governor Pryde Henry Teves has denied ownership of guns and explosives retrieved from the HDJ compound he allegedly owned.

In an 89-page counter affidavit, Teves said he never had “actual” and “constructive” possession of the seized firearms, adding that these were found outside the premises of the HDJ compound.

“I vehemently deny any and all implication of a violation of Republic Act No. 10591… being hurled against my person, and I abhor such false, malicious, misleading, and frivolous accusations,” he said.

The case against former governor arose from the raid conducted by the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group at the compound in Barangay Caranoche in Sta. Catalina, Negros Oriental in March.

Teves said police operatives searched an ice plant, a sugar cane plantation, and a Mud Press Area, among others, all of which he claimed were outside the premises of the 51-hectare compound.

According to Teves, 10 hectares were considered to be the HDJ compound while the remaining 41 hectares were open to anyone.

“In fact, as will be discussed later, the police officers absolutely had no authority to search those areas as it is not included in the application for the search warrant,” he said.

Teves also said that items found at the Mud Press area appeared to be owned by respondents Nigel Electona and Jeson Baillo Timtim.

Besides, Teves said the items found inside the white van, including hard cash amounting to more than P18 million, also came from unknown origins.

According to Teves, all items found in the possession of the other respondents should no longer be included as items he allegedly possessed.

“The conclusion that they possessed the items inevitably removes me as a suspect that I possess the same items they have in their possession,” he said. Rey E. Requejo

local industries from the harmful effects of smuggling, and we will not rest until we have put an end to this illegal activity,” he said.

The BOC’s anti-smuggling campaign has yielded positive results in recent years, with the agency seizing millions of pesos worth of smuggled goods and filing numerous criminal complaints against smugglers.

The agency has also collaborated closely with other government agencies and international organizations to improve border security and combat transnational smuggling syndicates.

With the filing of 65 criminal complaints in the first quarter of 2023 alone, the BOC is sending a strong message to smugglers that their illegal activities will not be tolerated.

Rubio further said the BOC’s efforts to combat smuggling have been significantly

By Rio n. Araja

AMID the Supreme Court’s (SC) approval of the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability, the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) has raised concerns over a conflict of interest between two public defenders both representing the accused and the plaintiff in just one and the same case.

PAO chief Persia’s Acosta, along with the agency’s senior officials, said Canon III, Section 12 of A.M. No. 22-09-01-SC defines conflict of interest ”when a lawyer represents inconsistent or opposing interests of two or more persons.”

In an April 9 respectful manifesto, Acosta and the other ranking public defenders cited “the test is whether or not in behalf of one client, it is the lawyer’s duty to fight for an issue or claim, but which is his or her duty to oppose for the other client.”

“We respectfully appeal to the High Court

hidden in herbal tea bags seized in Pasay BOC operations

By Joel E. Zurbano

GOVERNMENT agents assigned at the Ninoy Aquino International Airpaort (NAIA) on Wednesday intercepted a smuggled shipment of high-grade marijuana at a warehouse in Pasay City.

The shipment from California, USA was consigned to one Jeric Herrera, a resident of Sta. Cruz, Manila. Based on import documents, the sender declared the shipment as Tevana Herbal Tea, which arrived at the Federal Express warehouse. But Bureau of Customs - Xray Inspection Project (BoC-XIP) personnel detected suspicious green images contained in five cans during the initial inspection on Tuesday. The following day, the BoC-XIP men, with help from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, placed the shipment under physical examination and found five plastics of kush, a

restricted imported item.

At press time, the authorities are conducting follow-up operations while the shipment was turned over to PDEA for proper disposition.

Authorities meanwhile arrested a big-time drug peddler and seized P3.4 million worth of suspected shabu. Novaliches police station commander Lt. Col. Jerry Castillo identified the suspect as Bryan Santos, a resident of Barangay Sta. Lucia, Novaliches.

The Quezon City Police District nabbed Santos in Barangay Gulod in a buy-bust operation conducted in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

The suspect yielded 500 grams of suspected shabu, one green sling bag, a cellular phone and the buy-bust money. The suspect would face charges of violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. With Rio N. Araja

improved in recent months.

“We will remain vigilant in our efforts to combat smuggling, and we will not hesitate to take legal action against those who seek to violate our laws and jeopardize the welfare of our nation,” Rubio said.

Earlier, Rubio said the Customs posted a strong collection performance in the first quarter of 2023 that exceeded its revenue target by 8.43 percent or P16.6 billion.

He said total collection in the first three months reached P213.619 billion, higher than the revenue target of P197.020 billion for the period. For the month of March alone, the collection of P80.133 billion has exceeded its target of P72.282 billion by P7.851 billion or 10.86 percent. With Julito G. Rada

to consider our issue that shall adversely affect the operation of PAI and the interest of the clients,” its plea read.

The appearance of two PAO lawyers in a single sala (court), one for the defendant and one for the plaintiff, might erode public trust, the agency cited.

“With the proposed Section 21 of Canon III, district public attorneys (supervisors) could no longer exercise supervisory functions over the second lawyer who would handle the case of the conflicting client as he or she is already barried due to conflict of interest,” it said.

The SC yesterday announced that its en banc has already unanimously approved the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability in Baguio City. Earlier, PAO “Section 21 Canon III singles out the PAO as it gives an added definition to the conflict of interest which is not applicable to other lawyers in general. This circumstance violates the equal protection clause of the Constitution.”

BUREAU of Corrections (BuCor) chief Gregorio Catapang Jr. said the BuCor has relieved 700 prison guards of the New Bilibid Prison Maximum Security Compound.

Catapang said the relieved guards will undergo a monthlong refresher or retraining program before being assigned elsewhere, GMA News reported.

“I’ve been wanting to do that because I wanted them to undergo retraining and correct the wrong habits they developed,” Catapang, quoted by GMA News, said.

“Some of them are pretending to be on duty when they really are just in their homes. Someone else is signing for their attendance,” the official said.

According to Catapang, the agency may also file administrative and criminal complaints against some of the relieved personnel.

The BuCor chief added that personnel “caught in the act, like those who tampered with the CCTV may face charges.”

Catapang, however, clarified that not all 700 prison guards committed violations.

He said 300 prison guards will also replace the relieved personnel. “That’s enough. Since I came over the operation has become technology driven,” Catapang said.

High Court decision may result to conflict of interest, says PAO

BuCor relieves 700 guards in New Bilibid max security prison

‘Kush’

WATER STORAGE. A store attendant arranges plastic drums at a water container store along Commonwealth Ave. The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) is seeking to increase its water allocation from Angat Dam to ensure continuous supply to consumers in Metro Manila. Manny Palmero

Danny Pata

MORE FOR NURSES. Members of the Filipino Nurses United (FNU) hold protest placards during their National Congress demonstration march in Manila, followed by a program in front of the Philippine General Hospital along Taft Avenue in Manila Norman Cruz

Calm before the storm

THE good news from the economic front came last week from the Philippine Statistics Authority, which measured the rate of inflation in March to be 7.6 percent, a whole percentage point down from February’s 8.6 percent.

The bad news is it ain’t over till it’s over, or when the fat ladies of higher oil prices, food supply problems and core inflation stop marching in.

The good news is that further interest rate hikes which have been the BSP’s go-to solution to curb inflation is now on a wait-and-see mode, at least until May when, if the April indices are yet untamed, another round of interest rate adjustment could be made.

But the really bad news is that just when we were sighing relief at the one percentage point drop in the price index, OPEC + announced they will further reduce their daily output of the black gold by 1.16 million barrels.

Dutifully, or so it seems, our local oil cartel distributors increased their pump prices for gas and diesel last Monday, even if the OPEC + output reduction will not take effect until May.

They will continue to increase in the next two months, unless the US pumps more from it’s deposits, or China’s pent-up demand cools down.

Initial reaction has been for oil to go up to $80 per barrel, but who knows how it will be by May?

$90 per barrel is likely to be the benchmark for the entire 2023, further fueling inflation in countries like ours which are totally dependent on imports of oil and derivative products.

But there’s more bad news in the near horizon.

Except for a few island provinces and most of the BARMM where eating pork is haram, the ASF has infected us to a degree where not only our lechon will become scarce, but so too the liempo and kasim we use for our weekly adobo or sinigang.

Marching to a different drum, the Philippines is drifting away from what could be a friendly neighbor, into the embrace of a former colonial master which several times in the past has proven to be an inconstant protector

How much longer provinces like Bohol and Mindoro can prevent the dreaded swine disease from infecting their stock remains to be seen.

For when these island provinces go the way of Cebu and Batangas, then expect liempo to go up to 480 to 500 per kilo.

That will make our trading partners, especially the US and Europe, happy, because our food processors and restaurants will surely import more frozen pork cuts from them.

But that will further decimate our backyard hog producers. The cycle turns vicious.

Actually, food inflation in the first quarter averaged 10.6 percent, contributing 3.3 percent to our 7.6 percent inflation rate in March.

Alright, so onions are now lower by 300 percent compared to January, but then how much of those tear-inducing aromatics contribute to the food basket?

The bad news is, the DA is nervous about the price of rice. As it should be.

Their spokesman has sounded the alarm, citing the high cost of fertilizer may have impacted our summer produce on the low side, and with domestic buying price of palay shooting up to as high as 23 per kilo, the market is feeling the pinch this early, when harvests have just started.

Meanwhile, because supplying Kadiwa has become NFA’s sole concern these days, just to prop up the chimera of 20 peso per kilo rice, we hardly have any reserves in the hands of the State, so the privates anticipate opportunity.

But wait! With high palay prices, the privates can sell at around 50 pesos per kilo which is still high for the average consumer, who has been content with stable 40-43 peso rice on account of

By Adam Plowright

a 3.8 million import of the commodity last year.

But there’s more bad news on the rice front.

The tradeable export volume of the few riceexporting countries, almost all of them in Asia, is down to 6.6 percent of output.

Normally it is 7.5 percent of total production, the rest being for their own consumption. So a drop of almost 1 percent has devastating price consequences.

So we anticipate higher prices come the lean months, which is from July till end- September, with rice imports no lower than $450-480 per metric ton, FOB, higher depending on quality.

By then, El Nino shall have intensified, meaning less rainfall from May and less rainfall during the planting season.

But El Nino also means warmer sea temperatures, which means when the typhoons from the Pacific come barreling in, they become stronger than usual.

Strange though it may sound because El Nino means less water from the heavens, that storms get more strength when they pass through warmer seas.

And that’s very bad news, if the typhoons are strong come August and late September when the palay crop is pregnant with grain specially if the typhoons hit us in the wrong places like Central and Northern Luzon.

Then again, to continue fighting supply-pushed inflation, central banks are likely to withdraw more liquidity from the market, and that could induce recession.

As we write, we anticipate first quarter economic performance to be slow, with consumer spending starting to abate, and banks being too cautious with their lending.

If the travails of the banking industry, recently roiled by Silicon Valley and Credit Suisse, get more widespread with monetary tightening, more “small” banks might cave in.

Nothing is as bad as panic in the fiduciary realms.

How will the US Federal Reserve act/re-act to the changing inflationary situation is key.

Balancing the tasks of taming price indicia versus the risks of pushing the economy into a recession in a forthcoming election year can be very tricky.

Maintaining price stability, economic growth and keeping macro-finances in order is a most difficult thing.

The doomsayers are predicting a stock market crash, which is bad for everyone, from Wall Street to London and Tokyo, as it will be to struggling markets like ours.

And just as “politics is nothing more than concentrated economics” per the venerable Jose W. Diokno, the political consequences of an American recession could re-draw the balance of power in a world where China, Russia, Iran and Saudi Arabia are becoming fast and strong economic allies.

Already, Emmanuel Macron, enfant terrible of modern-day French and European politics, is playing it safe by courting China and taking an arms-length on the issue of Taiwan which America is using to needle the PRC. Does Macron foresee the political and economic realities which his predecessor two centuries ago, the great Napoleon, foresaw when he observed that once China awakens from slumber, the whole world will tremble?

It took the US with so many wars posturing itself as constable of the world, 200 years to become the world’s dominant economic power.

It took an awakened China, without going to war against any other country (yet) to achieve its current economic power in 40 years, second to America, and perhaps richer in another 10 to 15 years.

The rest of ASEAN, from Singapore to Indonesia, to Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, apart from close Chinese allies like Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar have seen this, and are carefully defining their national interest in terms of closer China ties.

Marching to a different drum, the Philippines is drifting away from what could be a friendly neighbor, into the embrace of a former colonial master which several times in the past has proven to be an inconstant protector.

Combat-ready

IF THERE’S any doubt the Philippines-United States defense cooperation is going great guns, in a manner of speaking, there’s the biggest-ever ‘Balikatan’ military exercise that should convince the skeptics the two allies really mean business amid growing tension in the region.

Consider this: the 18-day military exercise between Manila and Washington involves more than 17,000 troops—5,000 Filipinos, 12,000 Americans, and 111 Australians.

This participation is nearly double from last year’s 9,000 and also stands out from previous exercises in terms of size and scope. Observers from other countries allied with the United States are also taking part.

News reports indicate some of the drills to be carried out for the first time include live-fire training using Patriot missiles and Avengers air defense systems, both now being used by Ukraine to defend itself against the brazen Russian invasion.

The two allies will also sink a decommissioned 200-foot fishing vessel serving as a mock enemy ship, in waters facing the West Philippine Sea off Zambales province. We’re sure Beijing will be closely monitoring this.

What’s also new this year is that Balikatan would involve venturing outside traditional training areas, usually landlocked venues, to further test interoperability and readiness.

For our troops, training with the Americans is an opportunity for them to learn something new.

All this shows the enhanced security alliance between the Philippines and the United States that began with the signing of the landmark Mutual Defense Treaty way back in 1951

Aside from live-fire training, the drills will cover maritime security, amphibious operations, urban and aviation operations, counterterrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness.

Another area where Filipinos can learn from the US is cybersecurity. The two sides

Passing the new ROTC law

IT LOOKS like Congress is all set to pass Senate Bill 2034, the Reserve Officers Training Corps Act.

As a product of the old four-year ROTC program with subsequent assignment as an ROTC Acting Commandant, I am one of the many who support the revival of the ROTC program.

However, based on media reports attributed to Senator Bato de la Rosa, the Senate’s principal sponsor, the proposed ROTC law might turn out to be a chopsuey program. This is because the good Senator wants to add so many non-military subjects like moral and personality development and others, not to mention disaster response and human rights.

He also wants foreigners to be included in the program.

These added requirements could significantly dilute the reason why the ROTC Act is being passed in the first place.

The way I understand it, the principal reason why we are reviving the ROTC program is to train people to form part of our military reserve force.

The only remaining question is whether we want the revived ROTC program to be like the old one or make it a hybrid program which seems to be what Senator de la Rosa and some lawmakers want.

Congress must make up its mind on this.

It would make a lot more sense to stay as close as possible to the old ROTC program which was basically a military training program. Before the abolition of the old ROTC, graduates of the course were just one source of our reserve force.

The other was the 21-year-old old bracket, regularly called for military training to serve 18 months of military service.

Since the AFP is no longer calling male citizens for training to form the core of our reserve force, I worry about the quality of the reserve force that will come out of the ROTC program with so many added learning requirements which might no longer be necessary. This is because I have seen the metamorphosis of ROTC training from the 1960s up to the time that it was abolished.

ROTC graduates from the 1950s and 60s used real firearms in their training.

They, however, were not given the chance to use live ammunitions for target practice.

Beginning in the late 1970s or early 1980s, the AFP withdrew all the real firearms from all ROTC armories for fear of being raided by the CPP/ NPA and other subversives and were replaced by wooden rifles.

This was when ROTC training became a joke.

It was actually good the program was eventually abolished and replaced by the National Service Training Program we have today.

So, the question now is what sort of training will these future ROTC cadets be undergoing?

For those who do not want ROTC, the NSTP can be maintained but made tougher so that no one gets a free ride

A few months ago, I remember the AFP telling the Senate the kind of problems that they will encounter if the program will be revived because of the huge administrative and logistical requirements needed for the program.

Senator de la Rosa reacted by lecturing those military officers who attended the Senate hearing by telling them not to worry because Congress will provide all the necessary tools for the AFP to be able to carry out the mandate of the law.

Congress, however, should not take what the AFP is saying lightly.

This is because the preparatory work involved will take a considerable amount of time to execute if we want to produce well trained individuals.

This is especially true if Congress will insist on

will create scenarios involving a cyberattack and how to defend against it.

Balikatan will provide ample opportunity to demonstrate the strength and readiness of the Philippine-US security alliance. For the Philippine Army, a groundbased force focused for so long on fighting a homegrown insurgency, the joint exercise offers them a window focusing defense of the archipelago from potential foreign aggressors.

Retired Armed Forces chief Emmanuel Bautista views the ongoing military exercise as a response to threats posed by an increasingly powerful China.

“We’re preparing because the threat has become more real now and you can no longer brush it aside. In a long time, we never saw a credible threat of invasion of the Philippine territory, but now it’s possible,” he said. The ongoing Balikatan drills coincide with a high-level meeting of top Filipino and American defense officials and diplomats in Washington, DC for the first time in seven years. The drills also follow the official announcement of four new locations under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, allowing the expansion of American military presence in the country from the five existing sites under the deal signed in 2014. All this shows the enhanced security alliance between the Philippines and the United States that began with the signing of the landmark Mutual Defense Treaty way back in 1951.

We need that security umbrella and combat-readiness more than ever.

the many added training requirements. Otherwise, it would be tantamount to committing a crime if we train these students with wooden rifles then send them to war in case of emergency only to be slaughtered.

Where, for instance, would the AFP get all the real firearms to train the tens or hundreds of thousands of college students?

How about the military personnel who will handle the training? Make no mistakes about it, this is a monumental undertaking if followed the way the good Senator wants it.

It is for this reason Congress should maintain an open mind.

Perhaps, this is a good time to remind Congress that in war, not everyone has to join in the fighting. War as we are seeing in Ukraine is also evolving and Congress must take all these things into consideration in crafting a law that will end up to be exactly what the country needs. Otherwise, all the effort might just go to waste. As the name of the law suggests, it is a military training program.

And this is to be done once a week on Sundays for about four or five hours.

The time allotted for training is therefore not much.

Adding so many non-military requirements will just defeat the very purpose of the law. Making ROTC mandatory for all students in all colleges and universities might not be the best course of action either.

Why not limit ROTC to state colleges and universities as some are suggesting but include those private schools that want to join the program?

For those who do not want ROTC, the NSTP can be maintained but made tougher so that no one gets a free ride.

That way, both critics and proponents of the ROTC program get something.

Most important of all, there is a choice.

Le Pen lies in wait as Macron’s pension reforms roil France

AS VIOLENT protests sweep crisis-hit France, the prospect of far-right leader Marine Le Pen coming to power is being taken more seriously than ever—to her evident delight.

“At least I’ve succeeded in winning over my political opponents,” she told AFP with a smile during an interview last week.

“They seem to spend their lives telling everyone that I will be the next president.

“Now it’s up to me to convince a majority of the country.”

President Emmanuel Macron’s proposal to raise the minimum retirement age to 64 has triggered the biggest demonstrations in a generation and a fierce backlash against the government and politicians in general.

Le Pen has condemned the change but has kept a low profile since January, seeking to project an image of sobriety compared with the government’s raucous and outraged opponents on the hard-left.

While MPs from the France Unbowed party have repeatedly broken parliamentary rules and backed protesters during the violent clashes, Le Pen’s National Rally lawmakers have appeared disciplined in comparison.

The leader of Macron’s party in parliament,

Aurore Berge, complained last month that all Le Pen’s MPs needed to do was “stay quiet and they look respectable”.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin on Thursday accused LFI leader Jean-Luc Melenchon “of making the election of Madame Le Pen possible.”

While researching a new politics book entitled “We will have tried everything...”, author and pollster Chloe Morin noted that “almost all” French politicians she spoke to said they feared Le Pen coming to power.

Macron’s nightmare?

The prospect of the far-right leader succeeding Macron at the next election in 2027 is said by allies to keep the 45-year-old president awake at night.

He will be ineligible to run in 2027 after completing two terms.

“It’s the issue that haunts Emmanuel,” a senior lawmaker who knows the president well told AFP recently on condition of anonymity.

“He doesn’t talk about it, but he thinks about it.”

Macron positioned himself as a bulwark against populism and far-right nationalism when he first ran for office in 2017, promising voters he would address the anti-elite anger that has fed support for the political extremes in France for decades. Seeking a second term in April last year,

Opinion polls underscore the pro-Le Pen dynamics underway in French politics—but need to be interpreted with care, experts say

the former investment banker used the same arguments again, but he defeated Le Pen by a much smaller margin of 58.5 percent to 41.45 percent, while “abstentionism” hit its highest level since 1969.

Le Pen welcomes the idea of disturbing Macron’s dreams.

“I’m sorry if I feature like this in his nightmares,” she told AFP with a laugh. “He’s right to be worried. The way he is ruling will enable political forces with the exact opposite approach to his to gain power.”

France ‘governed against its wishes’

The twice-divorced former lawyer has run for president three times since taking over her father’s National Front party in 2011.

Although always positioned as antiimmigration, tough on Islam and euroskeptic, she has moderated her message over the years and looked to banish overtly racist party figures from the public eye.

In last year’s elections, she focused on the rising cost of living—and was rewarded with her highest ever score in the presidential election and a 10-fold increase in MPs in the National Assembly.

Macron’s decision to ram the pensions reform through parliament without a vote on March 16— a lawful but contested move—has also given Le Pen the chance to revive other parts of her longstanding pitch to voters.

She has proposed a referendum to settle the pension reform argument and, if elected, promises to organise other votes on issues ranging from immigration to electoral law.

“France is not an ungovernable country. It’s a country that has been governed against its wishes,” Le Pen said in the interview. Big winner?

Opinion polls underscore the pro-Le Pen dynamics underway in French politics—but need to be interpreted with care, experts say.

She is currently slightly more popular than Macron, but the margin is small.

Thirty percent of respondents had a positive view of the president, according to a poll this week from Odoxa, while 32 percent viewed Le Pen favorably. She also lags behind Macron’s first prime minister, Edouard Philippe, a conservative from northern France who is the country’s most popular politician and is likely to run for president in 2027.

Other polls show that if Macron were to dissolve the hung parliament, Le Pen’s party would be the biggest winner.

Some experts warn against jumping to conclusions about her prospects, however, given that she still unsettles many people and is perceived as weak on the economy as well as inconsistent on foreign policy.

“Everyone has lost (over the pensions reform), except for Marine Le Pen,” concluded Stephane Zumsteeg, head of polling in France for the Ipsos group.

“She’s continuing her work to improve her respectability, to institutionalize her party, to make it a constructive opposition. She’s working on her policies,” he told AFP.

“But we don’t have a tangible sign at this point that she is the big winner from what’s happening.” AFP

Macron cheered in China, jeered by Dutch for Taiwan comments

BEIJING—Emmanuel Macron’s unexpected suggestion that Europe not “follow” US policy on Taiwan is being hailed as a “brilliant decision” this week in China, where state news outlets and social media users are lauding his independence.

The French president sowed confusion across the international community—and left Western allies bristling—after calling for “strategic autonomy” on Taiwan following last week’s trip to China, where he met with President Xi Jinping.

But in Amsterdam, protesters noisily disrupted Macron during a speech about Europe’s future Tuesday as his domestic troubles intruded on his state visit to the Netherlands.

“Where is French democracy?” shouted the banner-waving demonstrators as Macron, who has faced violent protests at home over pensions reforms, ad-

dressed a largely student audience at a theatre in The Hague.

The 45-year-old Macron enjoyed a rockstar reception during his three-day visit to China, including being mobbed by selfie-chasing students in the southern city of Guangzhou, and local media has covered his subsequent comments widely, focusing on the phrase “strategic autonomy”.

An opinion piece published Monday by the Chinese Communist Party-run Global Times said the comments were “clearly the result of Macron’s long-term observation and reflection” and represented a path that was “relatively objective, rational and in line with Europe’s own interests”.

“Some people want to construct a false Europe in public opinion, masking true European voices and interests,” the article added. AFP

Myanmar confirms air strike that kills 50

YANGON—Myanmar’s ruling junta has confirmed that it carried out an air strike on a village in which dozens of people were reported killed, drawing condemnation from the United Nations and Western powers.

UN rights chief Volker Turk said he was “horrified” by the deadly air strike, whose victims he said included schoolchildren performing dances, with the global body calling for those responsible to be brought to justice.

The death toll from the early Tuesday morning strike on the remote Kanbalu township in the central Sagaing region

Russia test-launches

ICBM

MOSCOW—Russia has conducted what it said was the successful test launch of an “advanced” intercontinental ballistic missile, weeks after it suspended participation in its last remaining nuclear arms control pact with the United States.

The Russian defense ministry said in a statement that a “combat crew successfully launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) of a mobile ground-based missile system” from its Kapustin Yar test site on Tuesday.

“The missile’s training warhead hit a mock target at the Sary-Shagan training ground (Republic of Kazakhstan) with given precision,” it added.

Since sending troops into Ukraine last year, President Vladimir Putin has issued thinly veiled warnings that he could use nuclear weapons there if Russia were threatened.

In late February, Putin said Moscow was suspending participation in the New START treaty, under which Russia and the United States had agreed to limit nuclear stockpiles and submit to mutual inspections.

And less than three weeks ago, Putin said he would deploy tactical nuclear weapons in neighbor and ally Belarus, bringing the arms to the doorstep of the European Union. AFP

Yemen prisoner swap to start Thursday

DUBAI—A prisoner exchange involving hundreds of detainees from Yemen’s brutal civil war will start on Thursday, a Yemeni government official said, against a backdrop of rising hopes for peace.

Nearly 900 prisoners, most of whom were fighting with Huthi rebels, will be flown between Yemen and Saudi Arabia, which leads the military coalition fighting on behalf of the ousted government, the official said on Tuesday.

The Arabian Peninsula’s poorest country has been at war since the Saudi-led intervention began in March 2015, months after the Iran-backed Huthis seized the capital Sanaa. Hundreds of thousands of people have been killed, through direct and indirect causes, and Yemen is suffering one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, according to the United Nations.

The prisoner exchange, the biggest since October 2020, will last three days and involve multiple cities in Yemen and Saudi Arabia, said Majid Fadael, the official spokesman for the government delegation negotiating the exchange.

The Huthis will release 181 prisoners, including Saudis and Sudanese, in exchange for 706 detainees held by government forces, according to an agreement reached last month in Switzerland. AFP

remains unclear. At least 50 fatalities and dozens of injuries were reported by BBC Burmese, The Irrawaddy and Radio Free Asia, as well as a witness contacted by AFP. Military aircraft strafed Pazi Gyi village, where scores of locals had gathered to mark the opening of a local defense force office connected to junta

Anti-LGBTQ

opponents, a witness told AFP.

One fighter jet and a helicopter were involved in the attack, a security source told AFP.

The junta confirmed Wednesday it had “launched limited air strikes” after receiving a tip-off from locals about the event. It did not say how many were killed but insisted the military had tried to minimize harm to civilians.

“We heard that more people were killed because of big explosions from weapons and ammunitions ... displayed at the opening event,” the junta statement said.

Junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun late

on Tuesday said some of the dead were anti-coup fighters in uniform, though “there could be some people with civilian clothes”.

The spokesman went on to blame mines planted by the People’s Defence Force—coup opponents—for some of the deaths. Buddhist New Year

The attack came as Myanmar was preparing to mark the Buddhist new year —Thingyan—which begins Thursday and traditionally involves public water fights, but celebrations are expected to be muted.

“As the people of Myanmar celebrate their New Year, the EU is deeply

CASUALTY OF WAR.

Members of Ukrainian Civil-Military Cooperation team place into a plastic bag the body of a Russian soldier in the north of Kharkiv region on April 11 amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. AFP

disinformation surges after US

WASHINGTON—Deadly mass shootings in the United States have fueled a torrent of online disinformation targeting an unlikely group: transgender people.

Before police identified the gunman who killed five people Monday at a bank in Louisville, Kentucky, users on the fringe internet forum 4chan speculated that the shooter was transgender.

Once Connor Sturgeon was named, right-wing commentators such as former Donald Trump aide Sebastian Gorka shared screenshots of the suspect’s LinkedIn page, pointing out that it included his pronouns.

The narrative is the latest to fuel anti-LGBTQ disinformation on platforms such as Twitter, which analysts say has increased sharply since Elon

shootings

drey Hale as transgender.

Musk bought the company.

After a late-March shooting at an elementary school in Nashville, Tennessee, a former “RuPaul’s Drag Race” contestant and transgender activist who goes by the name Miss Peppermint and is based in New York said she was shocked to see her name and photo above a tweet she never wrote.

“At first I thought that I must have been hacked,” Peppermint told AFP.

“Clearly I didn’t make that statement.

It’s a statement that I would never have made.”

The tweet said transgender people planning to “commit a heinous crime” should “clear your social media” to avoid potential blowback. Several conservative influencers shared it after police identified Nashville shooter Au-

Biden touts peace in restive Northern Ireland

BELFAST—US President Joe Biden was set Wednesday to promote the potential of enduring peace as well as business investment on his trip to Northern Ireland.

Following a late-night greeting in blustery weather from UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Biden’s brief visit comes with the British-ruled territory again in the grip of political and sectarian squalls, 25 years on from a US-brokered peace agreement.

Biden was due to meet Sunak and Northern Ireland’s feuding political leaders in Belfast before delivering a speech at a newly opened city-centre campus of Ulster University.

The Irish-American president, 80, will then head on to the Republic of Ireland for a trip down memory lane, encompassing visits to the hometowns of his 19th-century ancestors.

Before boarding Air Force One, Biden said the priority for his trip was “to keep the peace” in Northern Ireland

and help unlock its political paralysis. His delegation includes a scion of the Irish-American Kennedy clan, Joe Kennedy III, Biden’s new special envoy for economic affairs in Northern Ireland.

Biden’s visit will mark the “tremendous progress” since the Good Friday Agreement ended armed conflict between pro-Irish and pro-British militants in April 1998, according to the White House.

“We’d like to see the national assembly (in Belfast) returned, clearly,” National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters aboard Air Force One, with the Stormont legislature currently suspended.

“The message is twofold. It’s congratulations on 25 years of the Good Friday agreement... (and) to talk about the importance of trying to work on trade and economic policies that benefit all communities as well as the United States,” he said. AFP

Over the course of two days, Peppermint faced a barrage of harassment.

“I was receiving actual death threats, people saying we’re coming with our guns for you, we know where you are,” she said.

The disinformation that spread after the Nashville shooting came from “very online, right-wing troll accounts, who are always ready to capitalize on an emergency or a disaster,” said Heron Greenesmith, a senior research analyst at Political Research Associates.

Activists say they worry about more fallout from such falsehoods, which come as more US states pass bills limiting gender-affirming health care and LGBTQ rights. AFP

shocked by reports of the latest atrocity committed by the military regime in Sagaing, taking the lives of dozens of innocent civilians,” EU foreign affairs spokesperson Nabila Massrali said.

The UN while not confirming a toll, said several civilians were killed, with Turk accusing Myanmar’s military of once again disregarding “clear legal obligations... to protect civilians in the conduct of hostilities”.

The military’s crackdown on dissent following the February 2021 coup that toppled Aung San Suu Kyi’s civilian government has left more than 3,200 people dead, according to a local monitoring group. AFP

WASHINGTON—Former US president Donald Trump, having been criminally charged in New York, pledged Tuesday to “never drop out” of the 2024 race for the White House, and insisted Joe Biden is not fit to run again.

The Republican real estate magnate, who is facing 34 felony counts in New York over alleged hush money paid to an adult film actress, told Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson that nothing would prevent him from running— even a conviction.

“I’d never drop out,” he said. “It’s not my thing. I wouldn’t do it.”

Trump, 76, in his first major interview since being arrested and fingerprinted last week, cast doubt on whether Democrat Biden, 80, would be in the 2024 race.

“I don’t see how it’s possible,” he said.

“It’s not an age thing... I don’t think he can.

“I just don’t see Biden doing it from a physical or a mental standpoint. I don’t see it.”

Trump and other senior Republicans have repeatedly cast doubt on Biden’s mental acuity and apparent frailty.

Right wing outlets like Fox News frequently highlight his verbal flubs, and moments where he appears to have lost his train of thought.

Throughout his own presidency, Fox offered an uncritical forum for Trump to air his grievances, with the then-commander-in-chief sometimes calling in unannounced to shows and talking at length to presenters. AFP

Trump vows ‘never’ to drop new bid for White House

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

POMP AND PAGEANTRY. (From left) Queen Maxima of the Netherlands, French President Emmanuel Macron, King WillemAlexander of the Netherlands and French First Lady Brigitte Macron toast during a state dinner at the Royal Palace in Amsterdam, as part of Macron’s state visit to the Netherlands, on April 11. AFP

ELECTION RALLY. Supporters wave during a rally of Turkey’s Republican People’s Party (CHP) Chairman and Presidential candidate Kemal Kilicdaroglu in Canakkale, western Turkey, on April 11. A sea of umbrellas and hoods at his feet, Kilicdaroglu, the opposition candidate who will challenge Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the polls on May 14, smilingly promises ‘the return of spring.’ AFP

CIRCULAR NO. 1170 Series of 2023

Subject: Amendments to Section 921/921Q of the Manual of Regulations for Banks (MORB)/ Manual of Regulations for Non-Bank Financial Institutions (MORNBFI) on Customer Due Diligence, including Guidelines on Electronic Know-Your-Customer

The Monetary Board, in its Resolution No. 402 dated 23 March 2023, approved the amendments to the provisions of Section 921 of the Manual of Regulations for Banks (MORB) and Section 921Q of the Manual of Regulations for Non-Bank Financial Institutions (MORNBFI) on customer due diligence, including guidelines on electronic Know-YourCustomer (e-KYC) using digital identity (ID) system.

Section 1. Section 921 of the MORB and Section 921Q of the MORNBFI on customer due diligence is hereby amended to read, as follows:

921CUSTOMERDUEDILIGENCE

a. In conducting customer due diligence (CDD), a risk-based approach shall be undertaken depending on the type of customer, business relationship or nature of the product, transaction or activity. In this regard, a covered person shall maintain a system that will ensure the conduct of CDD which shall include:

(1) xxx;

xxx

(4) xxx.

Where a covered person is unable to comply with the relevant CDD measures, considering risk-based approach, it shall (a) not open the account, commence business relations, or perform the transaction; or (b) terminate the business relationship; but in both cases, it shall consider filing a suspicious transaction report (STR) in relation to the customer.

xxx

CustomerIdentification.xxx

a. Minimum information/documents required:

(1) Newindividualcustomers.xxx

Unless otherwise stated in this Part, average CDD requires that the covered person obtain from individual customers, at the time of account opening/ establishing the relationship, the following minimum information and verify the customer’s identity with the official or valid identification documents or other reliable, independent source documents, data, or information:

(a) name of customer and/or PhilSys Card Number (PCN) or the PhilSys Number (PSN) derivative;

xxx

(g) xxx;

Pursuant to Republic Act No. 11055 or the Philippine Identification System Act and its Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (RIRR), the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) is the government’s central identification platform for all citizens and resident aliens of the Philippines. An individual’s records in the PhilSys shall be considered as an official and sufficient proof of identity. Considering its identity proofing, enrolment, authentication and identity life cycle management processes, the PhilSys is considered a reliable and independent source of verifying the customer’s identity. Where the PCN or PSN derivative, or the Philippine Identification (PhilID) card, in physical or digital form, is presented by the customer, it shall be accepted as official and sufficient proof of identity, subject to proper authentication, and the covered person shall no longer require additional document to verify the customer’s identity.

xxx

b. Customer Verification Process. Covered persons shall xxx

xxx

(1) this occurs xxx

xxx

(3) the ML/TF risks xxx

Covered persons shall adopt appropriate risk management measures with respect to how the customer may use the business relationship prior to verification. These measures may include, among others, setting up of transaction limits and monitoring of transactions that are beyond the expected activities or norms for the type of relationship.

c. Valid identification documents

(1) Customers and the authorized signatory/ies of a corporate or juridical entity xxx

(2) If the official document presented is not the PhilID, PCN or PSN derivative, a covered person may classify identification documents based on its reliability and ability to validate the information indicated in the identification document with that provided by the customer and ensure that risks are mitigated.

In case the identification document presented xxx

In customer identification process, covered persons shall implement appropriate systems of data collection and recording, such as: (1) photocopying/ scanning of identification document presented; (2) using Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to capture and record the biometric and other personal information of customers; and/or (3) manual recording of identification information.

In cases where the PhilID is presented, only the front portion/face should be photocopied/scanned. The PSN located at the back portion of the PhilID must remain confidential subject to applicable laws and regulations. In this regard, covered persons may only obtain either the PCN or PSN derivative indicated in the PhilID presented as part of customer identification and verification.

Covered persons shall also comply with the required digitization of customer records, as applicable, pursuant to relevant BSP and AMLC issuances. Reliefincaseofcalamity.In case of a disastrous calamity xxx

(a) The amount of transactions xxx

xxx

(d) The customer's account activities xxx with the prescribed period.

d. Face-to-face contact. xxx

The use of ICT in the conduct of face-to-face contact and/or interview may be allowed: Provided, That the covered person has measures in place to mitigate the ML/TF risks and that key CDD processes are documented or with adequate audit trail.

xxx

g. Electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC). e-KYC refers to the process of electronically verifying the credentials of a customer.

Covered persons may use different methods to conduct customer identification and verification including e-KYC through digital ID system. For this purpose, digital ID systems are systems that cover the process of identity proofing/

enrolment and authentication. Identity proofing and enrolment can be either digital or physical (documentary), or a combination, but binding, credentialing, authentication, and portability/federation must be digital. The digital ID system to be used in conducting CDD must be supported by robust technology, adequate governance, processes and procedures that provide appropriate level of confidence that the system produces accurate results. It should also be soundly protected against cyber-attacks and internal malfeasance or external manipulation/ falsification by unauthorized users to fabricate false or synthetic identities.

When employing e-KYC using a digital ID system, the covered person should ensure that it is anchored on, among others, robust, effective, and reliable information and communication technology architecture. Where the tiering is based on, among others, level of access and authentication assurance levels, it shall adopt a tiered or risk-based e-KYC policies and procedures (e.g., low tier level has access to basic authentication which requires minimum assurance levels or controls; access to subsequent tier level and additional services requires higher assurance/controls). Assurance levels refer to the extent of trustworthiness or confidence in the reliability of each of the three (3) stages of the digital ID process, from identity proofing and enrolment to authentication, and identity lifecycle management. In implementing e-KYC through digital ID system, the covered person shall:

(1) Understand the basic components of the digital ID system, particularly how they apply to the CDD requirements, as these will support customer identification and verification process.

(a) Identity proofing and enrolment. This involves the collection, validation, deduplication and verification of identity evidence and information provided by the person; and establishing an identity account (enrolment) and binding the individual’s unique identity to authenticators possessed and controlled by the person;

(b) Authentication. This establishes, based on possession and control of authenticators, that the person asserting an identity (the onboarded customer or claimant) is the same person who was identity proofed and enrolled; and

(c) Identity lifecycle management. This refers to the actions that should be taken in response to events that can occur over the identity lifecycle and affect the use, security and trustworthiness of authenticators, for example, loss, theft, unauthorized duplication, expiration, and revocation of authenticators and/or credentials.

(2) Apply informed risk-based approach to reliance on digital ID system for CDD that includes the requirement under item “(1)” above and ensure that the assurance level/s are appropriate for the ML/TF risks presented by the customer, product, delivery channel, geographical location, among others. This will enable the implementation of a tiered customer identification and acceptance process that leverages digital ID systems with various assurance levels to support financial inclusion. For example, in case of non-face-to-face channels, if the customer identification and verification depend on reliable, independent digital ID system with appropriate risk mitigation measures, this may pose normal risk, or even lower risk where higher assurance levels are implemented. The assurance level will determine if the digital ID system is reliable and independent for AML/CFT purposes.

(3) Utilize anti-fraud and cyber-security processes to support digital identity proofing and/or authentication for AML/CFT measures such as customer identification/verification at onboarding and ongoing due diligence and transaction monitoring.

A covered person may rely on another entity in the conduct of customer identification and verification, using a digital ID system, subject to existing rules on outsourcing and third-party reliance requirements, as applicable. Moreover, the relying party should ensure that the third party’s digital ID system enables the former to (i) immediately obtain the necessary information concerning the identity of the customer (including the assurance levels, where applicable); and (ii) take adequate steps to satisfy itself that the third party will make available copies or other appropriate forms of access to the identity evidence (documents, data and other relevant information) upon request without delay.

In any case, the relying covered person has the ultimate responsibility for the customer identification/verification process, and effective authentication, using the digital ID system provided by the digital ID service provider, and ensure that risk-based approach is applied in the use of the digital ID systems for customer identification/verification and authentication.

The covered person shall ensure that its conduct of e-KYC complies with relevant user consent and data sharing and protection/privacy laws, rules and regulations for data processing, storage, and management. All related transaction/s and their attendant risks or obligations, including the roles and responsibilities of each party involved, must be explicitly, clearly, and adequately provided by the covered person, and are explained to, understood, and accepted by the customer.

In this regard, pursuant to R.A. No. 11055 and its IRR, the PhilSys-enabled e-KYC is recognized as an acceptable system for e-KYC using digital ID system in the Philippines, including the PhilSys-issued credentials in physical or digital form, or authentication against the PCN, PSN derivative, or other tokens that will be issued by PhilSys, and an authentication factor such as biometric or demographic information. Further, covered persons, as relying parties, must comply with the onboarding and other e-KYC related guidelines issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) prior to use of or access to the PhilSysenabled e-KYC. For covered persons that will utilize the PhilSys-enabled e-KYC, they shall ensure compliance with the applicable guidelines and full implementation of the authentication procedures/methods and other related systems under the PhilSys.

Covered persons implementing e-KYC must perform customer identification and verification process under the same standards equivalent to those for face-to-face basis, and shall establish appropriate risk management processes. Consistent with Section 002 of the MORB/Section 002Q of the MORNBFI, the BSP may deploy appropriate supervisory enforcement actions to promote adherence with the requirements set forth in this Section and bring about timely corrective actions.

h.Trustee,nomineexxx

i.Prohibitedaccounts.xxx xxx

Section 2. The following transitory provision shall be incorporated as footnote to item “g.” on e-KYC under Section 921/921Q of the MORB/MORNBFI:

Covered persons with existing e-KYC, using a digital ID system, at the time of the effectivity of this Circular shall comply with the requirements prescribed herein within one (1) year from effectivity of this Circular. For covered persons without existing e-KYC and intend to adopt the same, they shall ensure strict compliance with the e-KYC requirements prescribed in this Circular prior to implementation.

Section 3. This Circular shall take effect fifteen (15) calendar days following its publication either in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

FOR THE MONETARY BOARD:

(Sgd) EDUARDO

G. BOBIER Officer-in-Charge

30 March 2023

Note: This Circular may be accessed at https://www.bsp.gov.ph/Regulations/ Issuances/2023/1170.pdf

Peso tumbles to one-month low of 55.22 against US dollar

By Julito G. Rada

THE peso tumbled to a one-month low against the US dollar Wednesday, pulled down by the recent hawkish policy signals from the US Federal Reserve and the latest geopolitical tensions between China and Taiwan. Data showed the peso shed P0.29, or 0.16 percent, Wednesday to close at 55.22 from 54.93 on Tuesday. It was the local currency’s weakest level since it settled at 55.24 on March 9, 2023.

Total volume turnover reached $935.98 million, lower than $1.143 billion a day earlier.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the currency’s decline was “partly due to increased market expectations, around [a] 75-percent chance, for another +0.25 Fed rate hike on May 3, 2023.”

He said the recent signals from mon-

etary authorities of a possible pause in local policy rates, if inflation would ease further, contributed to the peso’s decline. Inflation in March decelerated to 7.6 percent from 8.6 percent in February.

Ricafort also cited the rising global oil prices now at 2.5-month highs, after the surprise OPEC+ oil production cut of more than 1 million barrels a day a week ago and the geopolitical risks in view of the recent China military exercises near Taiwan as other factors for the weakness of the peso.

The peso fell to an all-time low of 59 against the greenback in October 2022 amid expectations that the Fed would further raise interest rates.

Previous hints from monetary authorities of continued support, plus the seasonal inflows of remittances in the fourth quarter, caused a downward trend for the peso-dollar exchange rate in the succeeding months.

DOTr gets proposals for 2 light rail systems

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Transportation received unsolicited proposals to build two railway projects worth P194.05 billion, Secretary Jaime Bautista said Wednesday.

Bautista identified the two proposed projects as the 18-kilometer Metro Railway Transit Line 11 between Quezon City and San Jose del Monte City in Bulacan and the 22.5-km. C5 MRT 10 project between Quezon City and Paranaque City.

Bautista said the agency received an unsolicited proposal to build MRT 11, which would connect Caloocan City and Quezon City to San Jose de Monte City.

Diokno asks WB-IMF to sustain support

FINANCE Secretary Benjamin Diokno called on the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund to continue supporting emerging markets and developing economies in their battle against multiple global crises.

Diokno made the statement during his intervention at the 2023 Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four Ministerial Meeting on April 11, 2023 in Washington D.C.

“The polycrisis we’re facing threatens to reverse the years of progress we’ve made towards poverty reduction and shared prosperity. Together, we must be decisive in tackling these challenges,” he said.

The Intergovernmental Group of TwentyFour on International Monetary Affairs and Development coordinates the position of developing countries on monetary and development issues in the deliberations and decisions of the Bretton Woods institutions.

The Ministerial Meeting, with the theme “Securing Sustainable and Inclusive Growth Amidst Emerging Challenges,” served as a platform to discuss key areas that need expanded support from the multilateral finance system.

Julito G. Rada

Emperador registered P10.1-b income in 2022

EMPERADOR Inc., a leading global brandy and whisky maker, reported a net income of P10.1 billion in 2022, relatively flat from 2021 amid global supply chain challenges and highinflation environment.

Emperador said in a stock exchange filing Wednesday revenues reached P62.8 billion, up 12 percent year-on-year driven by continued strong demand for whisky and brandy products.

Sales from the whisky segment increased 18 percent, boosted by higher demand for single malt whiskies across almost all of the conglomerate’s key markets around the world led by Asia, North America and Europe as well as the resurgence of travel retail.

The brandy segment also increased its sales by 9 percent on sustained growth in the Philippines, Spain, Mexico and North America.

“We achieved top line growth to end the year with a banner performance in 2022 despite the challenges posed by high inflation and supply chain and logistics issues,” Emperador president Winston Co said. Jenniffer B. Austria

A previous proposal filed with the Public Private Partnership Center showed that the project would involve the construction of elevated structure from EDSA in Balintawak, Quezon City traversing Quirino Highway, Novaliches and Zabarte Road in North Caloocan City up to Barangay Gayagaya in San Jose del Monte.

A passenger transfer facility will be provided proximate to the EDSA-Balint-

TICKETMELON’S EXPANSION.

Panupong Tejapaibul, co-founder and chief executive of Ticketmelon, announces the company’s expansion in Southeast Asia and the Philippines to offer a comprehensive platform that integrates cutting-edge ticketing tools, innovative digital in-event solutions and live streaming services. These are envisioned to cater to the needs of the most challenging event formats and audience volumes, all backed by exceptional organizer support to deliver the most seamless event experience. Ticketmelon, Thailand’s second largest ticketing platform founded in 2015, is the premier event technology solutions company for event goers and organizers in the region. It has evolved from a start-up into the leading provider of ticketing and digital inevent platforms for some of the region’s most prominent events.

By Othel V. Campos

VEHICLE sales increased 30.1 per-

cent in the first quarter to 97,298 from 74,754 units in the same period in 2022, two industry groups said Wednesday.

The Chamber of Automotive of Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. and Truck Manufacturers Association said in a joint report passenger car sales went up by 35.1 percent in the first three months to 24,753 from 18,323 units in the same quarter last year.

Commercial vehicle deliveries also grew by 28.5 percent in the quarter to 72,531 from 56,431 units a year ago.

awak station of LRT Line 1 and MRT 11 Balintawak station. The indicative cost of MRT 11 is about P81.79 billion.

Bautista said the agency also received another unsolicited proposal to build the C5 MRT 10 project.

The project involves the design, construction, operation and maintenance of about 22.5 km. of mostly elevated light railway transit system consisting of 16 stations along Circumferential Road 5 connecting Ninoy Aquino Terminal Airport Terminal 3 in Paranaque City to Quezon City.

It would terminate at Commonwealth Ave. with possible interchange with MRT 7 at Tandang Sora Station and LRT Line 2 at Aurora Station.

The indicative cost of MRT 10 is about P112.26 billion.

Bautista did not identify the companies that submitted the unsolicited proposals for the two railway projects.

An unsolicited proposal needs the approval of the DOTr and the National Economic and Development Authority board headed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Once approved, it will be subjected to a Swiss Challenge, where other interested companies are given an opportunity to top the offer of the original proponent.

Other transport infrastructure projects the DOTr is pursuing are the LRT Line 6 Project, a 19-km. commuter rail system extending southward from Niyog, Bacoor (terminus of the LRT 1 CAVEX extension) to Dasmariñas City. The LRT Line 6 will serve 45 percent of Cavite’s population.

30%

first quarter

ued their growth streak, increasing by 72.73 percent to 26,822 from 23,716 units in February and by 16.3 percent from March 2022 sales of 23,060.

The increasing volume of sales across categories also boosted the confidence of industry players to bring in more models and spend more on promotional activities.

ATLANTIC, Gulf & Pacific Company said Wednesday it is bringing the Philippines to the global liquefied natural gas center stage after it received the Philippines’ first LNG cargo at its import terminal in Batangas City.

AG&P said the ship-to-ship LNG transfer operation commenced on April 8 between the 162,000-cubicmeter Golar Glacier LNG Carrier and the 15-year chartered ADNOC L&S Japan-built Moss-type ISH, the 137,500 cbm floating storage unit converted by subsidiary GAS Entec.

The FSU is capable of loading LNG at a peak rate of 10,000 cubic meters per hour and a discharge-to-shore peak rate of 8,000 cbm/hr made possible with the modifications done by Gas Entec in the cargo handling and safety system that allows for simultaneous loading and discharge of LNG.

CAMPI and TMA expressed hope about surpassing the highest post-pandemic monthly sales of 37,000 units achieved in December 2022.

Gutierrez said the industry is optimistic that growth will continue this year, based on the growth trajectory of sales last year.

PLDT

to seek extension of SIM card registration

PLDT Group said Wednesday it will file a formal letter of request to ask the Department of Information and Communication Technology and the National Telecommunications Commission for an extension of the mandated April 26, 2023 deadline for subscribers to register their SIM cards.

“We are filing this request to help give ample time to all mobile users, particularly the marginalized sectors and those located in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas of the country, to register their SIMs,” said Cathy Yang, first vice president and head of group corporate communications at PLDT and Smart.

“We are here to continuously support the government in its SIM Registration initiative.

While we have led in the number of registrations to date with about 46 percent of our total number of subscribers already registered, and which is higher than industry average, we see the need to give subscribers more time to secure the government IDs required to register their SIMs,” Yang said.

PLDT Group’s subscriber base stood at 66.30 million as of December 2022.

“We stand ready with government to support any undertaking to fast track completing the SIM registration process as required by law,” Yang said. Darwin G. Amojelar

Sales in March hit the second highest monthly tally in the post-pandemic era, hitting 36,880 units, or 19.3 percent higher than 30,905 vehicles sold in February. It also jumped 24.2 percent from 29,685 units delivered in the same month in 2022.

“Achieving the 36,880-unit sales in March is indeed good news as the

By Alena Mae S. Flores

PRIME Infrastructure Capital Inc. of businessman Enrique Razon Jr. started the construction of a 140-megawatt solar power project in Tanauan, Batangas and Marogondon, Cavite.

Prime Infra’s unit Solar Tanauan Corp. held the groundbreaking ceremony for the project on April 11, together with representatives from the provincial govern-

auto industry continues to hinge on the thriving consumer demand for new motor vehicles, which hopefully will further improve in the coming months. In the same way, favorable economic conditions are also an important driving factor for sustained growth,” said CAMPI president Rommel Gutierrez.

Based on the March tally, passenger car sales amounted to 10,058 units, higher by 39.91 percent than 7,189 vehicles sold in February and by 51.8 percent from 6,625 a year earlier. Commercial vehicle sales contin-

ments of Batangas and Cavite and project partner PowerChina B7 Philippines Corp.

“Our project here at Solar Tanauan Corp. embodies the values that we, as a company, and I personally align with. We have a strong ESG commitment and sustainability focus and as such, our goal is to develop and operate our assets in a socially relevant manner,” said Solar Tanauan chair Katrina Razon.

“We are here to celebrate the future of

CAMPI tries to bring back sales to pre-pandemic statistics of 457,110 units in 2019.

“I am sure there is pent-up demand, and supply continues to improve. In fact, we have many models coming this year. That will really boost the sales for all brands. I believe all brands are really preparing this year’s full recovery,” Gutierrez said.

renewable energy and the impact we can have on our environment not just in the Philippines but in the world. It is a reminder of the importance of collaborating together towards a common goal, a shared vision and how collective efforts can make a transformative difference. I hope that this event will inspire many to take action towards a regenerative future,” she said.

The Tanauan and Maragondon solar power plants, which will have total an-

The FSU is part of the AG&P and sister company Linseed Field Corp.’s combined LNG offshore-onshore import terminal in Barngay Ilijan, Batangas City with an initial capacity of 5 million tons per annum.

It will store LNG and dispatch natural gas to power plants such as the 1,200-megawatt Ilijan power plant of San Miguel Corp. in the same area and other customers.

The terminal has an onshore regasification capacity of 420 million standard cubic feet per day and almost 200,000 cbm of storage.

The hybrid PHLNG terminal is designed to provide its customers with resiliency of supply and high availability even during storms.

Alena Mae S. Flores

nual generation capacity of 202 gigawatt-hours, is expected to power over 84,000 households and displace more than 100,000 tons of coal a year.

“Prime Infra continues to address the need for dependable power supply as it aggressively supports the transition to clean energy and a low-carbon economy through our portfolio of renewable energy projects,” Prime Infra president and chief executive Guillaume Lucci said.

BANK REOPENING. Cebuana Lhuillier Bank, the banking arm of PJ Lhuillier Inc., reopens its Nasugbu branch in a more central location that is more accessible to micro, small and medium enterprises. Attending the opening ceremony are CLB president Dennis Valdes (first row, fourth from left), Cebuana Lhuillier senior executive vice president Philippe Andre Lhuillier (fifth from left) and the rest of the CLB team. CLB has grown from being a small rural bank in Cavite into one of the most innovative names in the banking industry. The bank is also set to expand and open more branches around the Philippines this year.

CAMPI president Rommel Gutierrez.

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE MANILA

DEPARTMENT ORDER NO. 014 - 2023

March 9, 2023

SUBJECT : IMPLEMENTATION OF THE REVISED SCHEDULES OF ZONAL VALUES OF REAL PROPERTIES IN THE CITY OF PAGADIAN AND MUNICIPALITIES OF AURORA, BAYOG, DIMATALING, DINAS, DUMALINAO, DUMINGAG, GUIPOS, JOSEFINA, KUMALARANG, LABANGAN, LAKEWOOD, LAPUYAN, MAHAYAG, MARGOSATUBIG, MIDSALIP, MOLAVE, PITOGO, RAMON MAGSAYSAY, SAN MIGUEL, SAN PABLO, SOMINOT, TABINA, TAMBULIG, TIGBAO, TUKURAN AND VINCENZO SAGUN (2ND REVISION), WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF REVENUE DISTRICT OFFICE NO. 92 – PAGADIAN CITY, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR UNDER REVENUE REGION NO. 15 – ZAMBOANGA CITY, FOR INTERNAL REVENUE TAX PURPOSES.

TO : All Internal Revenue Officers and Others Concerned.

Under Section 4 of Republic Act 10963, otherwise known as the “Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN)” Law, amending Section 6 (E) of National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC) of 1997, the Commissioner is hereby authorized to divide the Philippines into different zones or areas and shall determine the fair market value of real properties located in each zone or areas, subject to automatic adjustment once every three (3) years.

By virtue of said authority, and after the conduct of public hearing on November 10, 2022, the Commissioner of Internal Revenue has determined the zonal values of real properties in the City of Pagadian and Municipalities of Aurora, Bayog, Dimataling, Dinas, Dumalinao, Dumingag, Guipos, Josefina, Kumalarang, Labangan, Lakewood, Lapuyan, Mahayag, Margosatubig, Midsalip, Molave, Pitogo, Ramon Magsaysay, San Miguel, San Pablo, Sominot, Tabina, Tambulig, Tigbao, Tukuran and Vincenzo Sagun (2nd Revision) within the jurisdiction of Revenue District Office No. 92 - Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur under Revenue Region No. 15 – Zamboanga City.

This Order is therefore issued to implement the revised schedules of zonal values of real properties for purposes of computation of any internal revenue tax due on sale/ transfer or any other disposition of real properties. The zonal values established herein shall apply provided the same is higher than (1) the fair market value as shown in the schedule of values of the provincial or city assessor and (2) the gross selling price/ consideration as shown in the duly notarized document of sale or transfer of real property.

This Order shall take effect immediately.

RECOMMENDED BY:

ROMEO D. LUMAGUI, JR.

Commissioner of Internal Revenue

DEFINITION OF TERMS

BENJAMIN E. DIOKNO Secretary of Finance

RESIDENTIAL LAND/CONDOMINIUM PRINCIPALLY DEVOTED TO HABITATION.

COMMERCIAL LAND DEVOTED PRINCIPALLY TO COMMERCIAL PURPOSES AND GENERALLY FOR THE OBJECT OF PROFIT.

INDUSTRIAL DEVOTED PRINCIPALLY TO INDUSTRY AS CAPITAL.

AGRICULTURALDEVOTED PRINCIPALLY TO RAISING OF CROP SUCH AS RICE, CORN, SUGARCANE, TOBACCO, ETC. OR TO PASTURING, INLAND FISHING, SALT-MAKING, AND OTHER AGRICULTURAL USES INCLUDING TIMBERLAND AND FOREST LAND.

GENERAL PURPOSERAWLAND, UNDEVELOPED AND UNDERDEVELOPED AREA WHICH HAS POTENTIAL FOR DEVELOPMENT INTO RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL, INSTITUTIONAL, ETC. MUST NOT BE LESS THAN 5,000 SQUARE METERS.

VICINITY MEANS AN AREA, LOCALITY, NEIGHBORHOOD OR DISTRICT ABOUT, NEAR, ADJACENT PROXIMATE OR CONTIGUOUS TO A STREET BEING LOCATED.

REVISED ZONAL VALUATION – RDO NO. 92 - PAGADIAN CITY, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR

REVISED ZONAL VALUATION – RDO NO. 92 - PAGADIAN CITY, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR

REVISED ZONAL VALUATION – RDO NO. 92 - PAGADIAN CITY, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR

C6 THURSDAY, APRIL 13, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

REVISED ZONAL VALUATION – RDO NO. 92 - PAGADIAN CITY, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR

C8

REVISED ZONAL VALUATION – RDO NO. 92 - PAGADIAN CITY, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR

REVISED ZONAL VALUATION – RDO NO. 92 - PAGADIAN CITY, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR

SEL SUR

1. NO ZONAL VALUE HAS BEEN PRESCRIBED FOR A PARTICULAR CLASSIFICATION OF REAL PROPERTY.

WHEREIN THE APPROVED SCHEDULE OF ZONAL VALUES FOR A PARTICULAR BARANGAY -

a.) NO ZONAL VALUE HAS BEEN PRESCRIBED FOR A PARTICULAR CLASSIFICATION IN A PARTICULAR STREET/SUBDIVISION IN A BARANGAY, THE ZONAL VALUE PRESCRIBED FOR THE SAME CLASSIFICATION OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE OTHER STREET/SUBDIVISION WITHIN THE SAME BARANGAY OF SIMILAR CONDITIONS SHALL BE USED; AND

b.) NO ZONAL VALUE HAS BEEN PRESCRIBED FOR A PARTICULAR CLASSIFICATION OF REAL PROPERTY IN ONE BARANGAY, THE ZONAL VALUE PRESCRIBED FOR THE SAME CLASSIFICATION OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED IN AN ADJACENT BARANGAY OF SIMILAR CONDITIONS SHALL BE USED.

2. PREDOMINANT USE OF PROPERTY.

a.) ALL REAL PROPERTIES, REGARDLESS OF ACTUAL USE, LOCATED IN A STREET/BARANGAY/ZONE, THE USE OF WHICH ARE PREDOMINANTLY COMMERCIAL SHALL BE CLASSIFIED AS “COMMERCIAL” FOR PURPOSES OF ZONAL VALUATION.

b.) THE PREDOMINANT USE OF OTHER CLASSIFICATION OF PROPERTIES LOCATED IN A STREET/BARANGAY/ZONE, REGARDLESS OF ACTUAL USE SHALL BE CONSIDERED FOR PURPOSES OF ZONAL VALUATION.

3. ZONAL VALUES OF CONDOMINIUM UNIT/TOWNHOUSE:

IF THE TITLE OF A PARTICULAR CONDOMINIUM UNIT/TOWNHOUSE IS -

a.) A CONDOMINIUM CERTIFICATE OF TITLE (CCT), THE ZONAL VALUE OF THE LAND AND THE IMPROVEMENTS SHALL BE TREATED AS ONE; OR

b.) A TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE (TCT), THE LAND AND IMPROVEMENT SHALL BE GIVEN SEPARATE VALUES, i.e. ZONAL VALUE/GROSS SELLING PRICE/FAIR MARKET VALUE PER LATEST TAX DECLARATION WHICHEVER IS HIGHER AND, IN THE ABSENCE OF ZONAL VALUATION, PROPERTY SHALL BE VALUED PURSUANT TO RAMO 2-91.

THE GROUND FLOOR OF THE RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM SHALL BE CLASSIFIED AS COMMERCIAL AND TWENTY PERCENT (20%) OF THE ESTABLISHED VALUE SHALL BE ADDED THERETO.

4. AREAS FOR PRIORITY DEVELOPMENT (APD).

THESE ARE AREAS IDENTIFIED AS AREAS FOR PRIORITY DEVELOPMENT CERTIFIED TO AS SUCH BY THE HOUSING AND LAND USE REGULATORY BOARD (HLURB). IF IT IS UTILIZED FOR SOCIAL HOUSING, IT SHALL BE CERTIFIED TO AS SUCH BY THE PROPER GOVERNMENT AGENCY, SUCH AS PRESIDENTIAL COMMISSION ON URBAN POOR (PCUP, NATIONAL HOUSING AUTHORITY (NHA), ETC.

SECOND SALE OF LOT IDENTIFIED AS LOCATED IN THE APD SHALL NO LONGER BE VALUED AS AN APD AND SHALL BE TREATED AS AN ORDINARY REAL PROPERTY.

5. DIVISION OF A BARANGAY

IN THE EVENT THAT AN EXISTING BARANGAY IS DIVIDED INTO TWO OR MORE BARANGAYS, THE ZONAL VALUE PRESCRIBED FOR THE EXISTING BARANGAY SHALL BE USED FOR THE NEWLY CREATED BARANGAY

6. PARKING SLOT (PS)

IF NO ZONAL VALUE HAS BEEN PRESCRIBED FOR PARKING SLOTS, THE VALUE SHOULD BE 60% OF THE AMOUNT OF THE UNIT SOLD

7. INSTITUTION (X) THESE ARE AREAS FOR SCHOOL, HOSPITAL AND CHURCHES. IF NO ZONAL VALUE HAS BEEN PRESCRIBED, THE COMMERCIAL VALUE OF THE PROPERTY NEAREST TO THE INSTITUTION, WITHIN THE SAME BARANGAY AND STREET SHALL BE USED.

8. ZONAL VALUE OR FMV ESTABLISHED IN THE SCHEDULE OF VALUES OF ASSESSORS. THE ZONAL VALUES ESTABLISHED HEREIN SHALL APPLY IN COMPUTING ALL INTERNAL REVENUE TAXES (i.e. CAPITAL GAINS, CREDITABLE WITHHOLDING, ESTATE, DONOR’S, AND DOCUMENTARY STAMP TAXES) DUE ON SALES, EXCHANGES, OR OTHER DISPOSITIONS OF REAL PROPERTY. PROVIDED, THAT THE SAME IS HIGHER THAN (1.) THE FAIR MARKET VALUE AS SHOWN IN THE SCHEDULE OF VALUES OF THE PROVINCIAL AND CITY ASSESSORS (i.e. LATEST TAX DECLARATION) AND (2.) THE GROSS SELLING PRICE AS SHOWN IN THE DULY NOTARIZED DOCUMENT OF SALE OR EXCHANGE AT THE TIME OF SALE OR EXCHANGE.

PROVIDED, HOWEVER, THAT THE VALUE OF PROPERTY TO BE USED IN

COMPUTING ESTATE AND DONOR’S TAXES SHALL BE (1) THE FAIR MARKET VALUE AS DETERMINED BY THE COMMISSIONER OF INTERNAL REVENUE (i.e. ZONAL VALUES) OR (2) THE FAIR MARKET VALUE AS SHOWN IN THE SCHEDULE OF VALUES OF THE PROVINCIAL/CITY/MUNICIPAL ASSESSOR, WHICHEVER IS HIGHER.

Maroons keep slim Final Four hopes alive

UNIVERSITY of the Philippines scored its breakthrough win at the expense of Ateneo de Manila University, 13-25, 22-25, 26-24, 39-37, 15-12, to keep its slim Final Four chances alive in the UAAP Season 85 men’s volleyball tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan, Wednesday.

With UP ahead by just a point, 7-6, Louis Gamban scored a point before Angelo Lagando made all of his three points to create some separation for UP, 11-7.

The Blue Eagles kept coming back, 11-13, but it was Jian Salarzon’s attack error that went wide that proved to be lethal before getting a point back, 12-14. But Jaivee Malabanan went throughthe-block for the win.

It was a sorry loss for the Blue Eagles despite Jian Salarzon’s 30-point outing.

Malacañang wants World Cup to be a ‘great experience’ for all

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called a meeting on Wednesday with a Philippine Sports Commission-led Task Force at the Malacañang Conference Room in Manila to discuss the government’s support to the hosting of FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.

“This administration is committed to providing the Inter-Agency Task Force with all the necessary support and assistance it needs in order to fully achieve its objectives and to secure the safe, orderly, and successful conduct of the tournament,” said Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Hubert Guevara who represented PBBM in the meeting.

Guevara encouraged all those involved to work together for a successful FBWC staging, saying, “Let us all take

Fil-Am Cole included in 77-man PH athletics team

Brodeth resumes title hunt in PPS Maasin

By Peter Atencio

FIL-AMERICAN pole vaulter Elijah Cole will join world no. 3 Ernest John “EJ” Obiena in the Philippines’ quest for medals in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia.

The San Diego, California-based Cole was included in a 77-man roster of the national athletics team, having earned the nod of the national coaching staff.

The national coaching staff, headed by Jojo Posadas, made their final recommendations two weeks after the ICTSI Philippine Athletics Championships at the Ilagan Sports Complex in Isabela last month.

Cole, whose mom is from Nueva Ecija, replaced an injured Hoket delos Santos, following a 5.05- meter leap during the meet.

Fil-American standout Alyanna Nicolas, a bronze medallist in the last SEA Games, is also returning with Ohio-based Natalie Uy in the women’s pole vault.

Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association secretary general Edward Kho said they are hopeful that the new members of the national team can help the Philippines gain more medals in the biennial meet.

The Philippines seeks to improve on its 5-7-14 gold-silver-bronze medal performance the last time around.

The list also included Fil-Americans Angel Frank, Danae Manibog-Gatewood and Lauren Hoffman. Frank is listed in the women’s 400-meters, the 4x100 and the 400-meter relays with the two.

But the three of them still need to submit their Philippine passports to confirm their participation.

this endeavor both as an opportunity and as a challenge—an opportunity to showcase what the Philippines has to offer and a challenge to make the FIBA Basketball World Cup a great experience for athletes and fans alike.”

PSC and Inter-Agency Task Force chairman Richard Bachmann arranged the FBWC gathering attended by the Office of the Executive Secretary, leaders and representatives of various government agencies, FBWC Committee, and PSC commissioners Olivia “Bong”

Coo, Matthew “Fritz” Gaston, Walter Francis Torres and Edward Hayco.

“Today, we move one step closer to fulfilling our goal of bringing the best

World Cup hosting in the history of FIBA Basketball,” said Bachmann.

“I also thank our national government for Administrative Order No. 5 issued by Malacanang last March 27th directing all government agencies and instrumentalities to extend their support for this hosting.”

Bachmann also expressed optimism in the hosting of the prestigious basketball event while assuring everyone that, “all timelines, concerns and deliverables expected from each of us here will be met, as we, at the PSC, continue to work hand-in-hand with the SBP and other vital agencies. Our Team Pilipinas needs the team within us.”

On August 25 to 30 this year, the group phase of the competition will be hosted simultaneously by the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia. The final phase is slated September 5 to 10.

Another Pinoy MMA fighter climbs UFC Octagon

FILIPINO-SWISS mixed martial artist Chriss Valdez Hoffman takes a crack at the world-famous Octagon of the Ultimate Fighting Championship when he battles Korean Sang Hoon Yoo on May 28 in Shanghai, China.

The event, entitled Road to UFC, will be held at the UFC Performance Institute of Shanghai with four nontournament bouts featuring Hoffman and Yoo in the welterweight.

“Words can’t express how excited I am, to represent my teams, @ deftac.ph and @360martialarts.ch, and my countries (Philippines and

Switzerland),” said Hoffman in a social media post.

“Be assured, that I will give it my best and work my ass off to achieve what every fighter is dreaming of... to fight in the UFC,” he added.

“It’s now or never, and I choose now!”

Now based in Zurich, Hoffman recently went back to the Philippines and successfully defended his middleweight title against Min Seok Kim of South Korea in Universal Reality Combat Championship (URCC 83) in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte.

“’Yung mga breaks parehong side naman Ateneo mayroon din, sa amin mayroon din pero ‘yung tiyagaan talaga nu’ng dulo so siguro naging advantage na nag long game kami nu’ng fourth set, ‘yung momentum nag tuluy tuloy nu’ng fifth set,” said UP head coach Rald Ricafort after the two-hour 48-minute marathon.

But the most crucial set was the fourth when the Fighting Maroons battled toe to toe with the Blue Eagles before Salarzon committed a costly service error that paved the way for Gamban’s crosscourt kill to force a decider, 39-37.

Ateneo saw its three-match win streak came to an end, dropping to 5-5 at joint fourth with De La Salle University.

Gamban produced an all-around game of 22 points, 16 excellent receptions, and 14 digs, while Malabanan added 21 points and 19 digs.

“Kahit na naghahabol, kailangan pa rin namin kapitan saka yung fighting spirit na kailangan ilaban namin ito, walang bibitaw talagang ibuhos na ito kasi UAAP na ito,” said Gamban on their fight.

Cajolo was also present with 18 points while Jessie Rubin joined the double figures party with 10 points.

Ken Batas and Charles Absin’s 18 points scored apiece for the Blue Eagles.

Ateneo will be back on Saturday against streaking University of Santo Tomas, while UP aims for back-to-back wins on Sunday against the Green Spikers. Both games will be at Philsports Arena in Pasig. Watch the UAAP Season 85 Collegiate Volleyball Tournament on the UAAP Varsity Channel (Ch. 263 HD). Available on Prepaid Loads 300 & up (valid for 30 days).

The two-division URCC champion stopped Yoo in via technical knockout in the second round to improve his MMA record to 8 wins against only a loss and solidify his stature as the only two division-champ of the URCC being the middleweight and lightheavyweight belts owner.

Five homegrown fighters have fought in the UFC before, namely Carls John De Tomas, Jenel Lausa, Mark Eddiva, and Dave Galera. The most famous UFC fighter with Filipino bloodlines and who held titles at one time were Brandon Vera and Mark Munoz.

Gialon seeks title repeat at Caliraya Springs

ZANIEBOY Gialon heads back to Cavinti, Laguna next week with a winning mindset, expending the weeks leading to the ICTSI Caliraya Springs Championship refining his short game that hampered his campaign in Bacolod and Iloilo last month.

“I’ve been practicing the last few weeks, focusing more on my short game after struggling in that part (of my game) in Bacolod and Iloilo,” said Gialon on his preparations for the P2.5 million event on April 18-21.

While he contended for the championship at Marapara, eventually finishing at fifth, the 32-yearold Davaoeño floundered in the final round at Sta. Barbara, limping with a 76 and ending up 13th.

But back at Caliraya Springs, Gialon will be doubly motivated, having emerged winner at the Arnold Palmer-designed layout, which hosted its first PGT event last year. He banked on his superb putting in beating Clyde Mondilla by four.

“Putting really worked for me at Caliraya Springs last year,” said Gialon, who anchored his first-round 67 on a 24-putt performance on his way to a wire-to-wire victory that snapped a five-year title spell in the country’s premier

circuit put up by ICTSI.

But with the rest of the stellar field, including Bacolod leg winner Ira Alido and Iloilo champion Rupert Zaragosa, all geared up for the 72-hole championship, a spirited battle looms at the challenging par-72, 6,788-yard lush green undulating layout with an elevation of 1,200 feet above sea level.

“Everybody has a chance kaya depende na lang kung sino ang mas kondisyon sa amin,” said Gialon. “But I will try my very best to win again.”

Multi-titled Tony Lascuña, for one, is keen on having a swing at it after back-to-back runner-up finishes in Bacolod and Iloilo, so do Mondilla, Jhonnel Ababa, Michael Bibat, Joenard Rates, Reymon Jaraula, Jay Bayron, Jerson Balasabas and The Country Club Invitational back-to-back winner Guido van der Valk.

The young guns are likewise going all-out to crowd their seasoned rivals for top honors with Sean Ramos seeking to ride on his strong tied at fourth finish in Iloilo and the likes of Gab Manotoc, Ivan Monsalve, Kristoffer Arevalo, Ele Bisera, Jonas Magcalayo, Josh Jorge, and Korean Rho Hyun Ho out to make an impact in the third leg of this year’s circuit organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.

UP’s Louis Gamban celebrates after scoring a point against Ateneo in the UAAP Season 85 men’s volleyball tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan on Wednesday.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Chris Valdez Ho ma shows o the Road to UFC fight contract. Photo from Chriss Ho man FB

Zanieboy Gialon

Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental 2022

Camille Celada Basiano is the

Gabrielle

newest ambassador of Sassa

By Patricia Taculao

AS temperatures rise in the Philippines, people are becoming increasingly aware that summer is fast approaching – if not already upon us. If there’s one thing that people love doing in the summer, it’s going to the beach to cool off and show off their summer bodies.

During this time, people flock to shopping malls to find the ideal swimwear to flatter their body shapes. Since body positivity and inclusivity have become significant social movements across the globe, beach bums don’t have to go to extreme lengths to get fit just for the season.

find season.

LIFE

Promoting body positivity among women this summer

collection. It features vibrant patterns, flattering silhouettes, and comfortable fabrics in all shapes and sizes. Moreover, Sassa named their newest ambassadress, who embodies a modern woman in her actions and mindset, Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental 2022 Gabrielle Camille Celada Basiano

The beauty queen, who also goes by Gabby, shared the brand approached her to be their

ambassador earlier. However, she couldn’t commit herself to the responsibility because of Now that she’s available and has taken home a title, Gabby is grateful that Sassa’s offer still stands.

“As the newest Sassa Girl, I am honored to represent the brand because I truly believe in its promise of uplifting women’s self-confidence and their power to succeed despite personal critics. The swimsuits and activewear not only look great but also serve as a source of willpower,” she

Sassa launch party at Sequoia Hotel Manila Bay last March 20,

summer pieces because they’re easy

couldn’t her bid for the pageant. Now that she’s honored because believe in its critics. look great but also a said during the launch Monday.

Sassa, a renowned women’s brand offering swimwear, activewear, and underwear, recently released its summer

offering swimwear, activewear, and

She added that as the newest Sassa Girl,

What’s new in Salcedo? It’s Sampiro!

WHEN my cousin Aileen

Abuel invited me to a spontaneous dinner along with her two friends, I said ‘yes’ right away without asking where. It was one of those rare chances when both of us were free. It turned out to be at this much-talked-about Sampiro de Makati on L.P. Leviste St., Salcedo Village in Makati, right across Salcedo Park.

Sampiro recently opened, and this eye candy for a bistro on the ground floor of Escala Salcedo is a must-visit, that is if you still haven’t. If its charming interior, which is a surprisingly easy-on-the-eye blend of pink, yellow, dark blue, and olive green, isn’t enough to lure you in, for sure, its impressive F&B choices will.

Come evening, the pink neon lights and warm bulbs light up the entire place giving it a more inviting look and feel. It is stylish but not intimidating and chill enough for you and your pals to linger in well after the sumptuous foods are consumed because you would want to try their drinks.

The owners, Sandra and Ian Paradies co-founder of Dark Wing Inc., which owns Polilya bar in Poblacion, as well as the genius behind Engkanto craft beer, shared with us the concept of Sampiro.

“What does Sampiro mean? Why did you choose the name?” I asked.

“There is actually a nice story behind that. Back in the 1600s, the Makati area was called Sanctuario de San Pedro, under the jurisdiction of Franciscan priest Fr. Pedro De Alfaro. When it became an independent town in 1670, it was renamed San Pedro de Makati in honor of its patron saint. The locals, however, gave it a nickname and called it Sampiro, a colloquial yet more welcoming term. We just love the charm and the connection it has for the kind of concept we had in mind for this place,” Ian shared. Sampiro, indeed, is a homage to the hospitality and charm of classic Manila.

Immediately, one will notice the modern European and Asian touches here and there within Sampiro yet there are also some hints of the Old World charm.

Sandra gave us her top recos on the menu, though we were assured everything on the list is worth a try. And then there’s the panaderya Did I tell you Sampiro has panaderya? There.

Check it out. Papa Rum celebrates Negros

Occidental in new animation video

Don Papa Rum, the Philippine premium single island rum, recently commemorated its 10 years in the market with a release of a new animation video called Sugarlandia is Calling. The animation, done in Hedcut style, takes viewers inside the label of Don Papa and into the wonderful world of Sugarlandia, showing a glimpse of this fantasy world, the land between the cane.

At the launch, Don Papa Rum invited friends and family to a special four-hands dinner in Xception, Makati City, and

has gone all over the world.

The event also debuted a new Don Papa cocktail, called the Sampinit Sour, created by Aaron Goodall the brand’s Manilabased Cocktail Maestro. When we think of Philippine fruits, we often think of mangoes, calamansi, coconuts, and other tropical fruits. But a lesserknown seasonal berry is also found here; the sampinit, a Philippine wild raspberry. Much like the hidden nature of the Sugarlandia is Calling video, the Sampinit Sour highlights a flavor not often thought of when thinking about the Philippines, and together with Don Papa Rum creates a refreshingly crisp cocktail, perfect for a summer’s eve. Don Papa Rum has come far, from a local brand launched in the Philippines 10 years ago, to now a well-loved pre - mium rum present in more than 30 countries.

You can get your Don Papa Rum in any of their partner retailers: S&R, Kultura, Ralph’s Wines & Spirits, Boozy.ph, and more.

friends

what is normally a lifestyle shop and gallery was transformed into the world of Sugarlandia. Flora and fauna overran the store while Sugarlandia creatures danced in the room, offering Don Papa cocktails to guests.

Heading the dinner are two renowned chefs Cyrus Todiwala of Café Spice Namaste and Patrick Go of Your Local. The menu melded Philippine and Negrense flavors from Chef Patrick together with the Asian and international touches from Chef Cyrus, showcasing where the brand came from as well as how far its reach

Available in over 30 countries worldwide, Don Papa Rum is the first premium single island rum from the Philippines, now ranked the third largest rum market in the world next to India and USA.

The namesake of Don Papa Rum is inspired by the unsung hero and mystic, Papa Isio, who was one of the leading figures of the late 19thcentury Philippine revolution. Initially a foreman at a sugar plantation, his leadership and courage played a critical part in liberating the island of Negros from Spanish rule. Don Papa is inspired by his legend and captures his spirit and sense of magic in every bottle.

Visit www.donpaparum.com for more details. To reach me, I’m at joba.botana@ gmail.com.

Gabby aims to inspire women across the globe to love themselves for who they are.

Gabby’s appointment as Sassa’s newest ambassador is ideal for the beauty queen because it coincides with her values and visions. She’s also a mental health advocate on a mission to empower those around her.

“With the help of Sassa giving different styles, different colors for different body types and skin colors, I think it’s one way of boosting one’s self-confidence na rin,” she said.

Gabby aims to inspire women across the beauty with mental health colors for different body way thing about is

season, Sassa has something to offer.

“At Sassa, we are committed to evolving with each new generation. We not only release new styles in line with fashion trends but also explore the social terrain of modern women living in the Philippines.

Another thing Gabby loves about Sassa is how easy it is to style depending on women’s moods. For instance, they can pair the accentuated or printed pieces with a skirt if they prefer to wear something chic. But when they feel uncomfortable showing skin, Sassa also has activewear and swimwear they can mix and match to create the perfect look where they’re most comfortable. Whether customers are looking for a conservative look, a waist-accentuating piece, or a classic swimsuit they can wear season after

For instance, they can pair the accentuated or printed pieces with and and match to create the perfect look where they’re

Our aim is to help every woman fulfill their self-expression and style preferences as they become the best version of themselves,” said Raiza Limpiada, Marketing Manager of Sassa. Follow @ sassa_ph on Instagram and @sassa.ph on Facebook and TikTok for updates.

Sassa’s latest collection offers different styles and colors for different body types and skin

tones

Healthy eating habits to help you keep up with all the summer fun

THE Philippines’ summer months usually record the hottest temperatures of the year. And this weather makes it the perfect time to travel around the country and have some sunny adventures with family and friends. The heat though can also have an impact on our overall health – we’re more prone to dehydration and digestive issues that can spoil all the fun.

Make the most out of these easygoing months by staying healthy and nourishing the body with wholesome food choices. Filipino plant-based brand Sekaya, and Dr. Eca Lorenzo, internal medicine specialist and functional medicine practitioner, suggest tweaks on our daily eating habits that can help energize us throughout summer.

Take advantage of fresh produce April and May are when produce is at its peak when farmers harvest crops, and when our own backyards are abundant with fruits.

“During this time, you notice that local in-season fruits like mango, guyabano, coconut, rambutan, santol, pomelo, and pineapple are more readily available at your favorite grocery stores and markets. This can help add more color and variety to your plates, allowing you to get as many nutrients as possible,” shares Dr. Lorenzo. “It’s also great to keep yourself well-hydrated by adding in more vegetables with high water content like lettuce, tomato, broccoli, spinach, and eggplant to what you eat.”

Dr. Eca Lorenzo notes that tweaks in our eating habits can help energize us throughout summer hydration fix. They are so easy to prepare. Just steep a bag or two in freshly boiled water and infuse for 3 to 4 minutes, then add ice or put it inside the fridge for a refreshing healthy drink. Observe food safety practices. Dr.

Go for lighter meals. On warm days, the digestive system may become slow as more energy is being spent to keep the body from overheating. “Avoid eating heavy meals this summer to give your digestive system a chance to keep up with everything that’s going on in your body,” Dr. Lorenzo suggests. “Remember to control your portions and to take your time chewing your food to avoid bloating.”

Choose your cold treats wisely. Instead of ice creams and sugary beverages, try having fruit smoothies or botanical-infused drinks. “Sugar can actually lead to dehydration when consumed in high volumes,” Dr. Lorenzo warns.

“Drinking water is still the best way to quench your thirst. But if you want something more flavorful, it’s best to choose the healthy route by making smoothies with the freshest fruits and without added sugar or add ice to your favorite botanical infusions.”

Sekaya Botanical Infusion, the plantbased brand’s line of botanical blends made from organic ingredients with wellness benefits like easing digestive issues and boosting immunity, can also be added to one’s

Lorenzo reminds that cases of food poisoning and gastroenteritis can be quite common during summertime.

“Food poisoning and gastroenteritis due to bacteria or virus have similar symptoms like an upset stomach and vomiting. Both are caused by unhygienic or contaminated food and water,” she adds.

“Prevent this from happening by following food prep standards like washing your hands when handling ingredients, making sure fruits and veggies are washed before eating, and ensuring that meat is cooked through. Also, avoid leaving food and water out for hours, especially under the heat of the summer sun.”

Summer is a great time to rest, relax and loosen up, but the heat can take a toll on our health too. Maintain good eating habits and even add a few more, so we can avoid the summer blues and stay having fun all season long.

Sekaya is under Synnovate, the natural products division of UNILAB. Learn more about Sekaya’s plant-based solutions and get health tips and information at https://www. sekaya.com.ph/

The author (fifth from left) with her cousin

Aileen (fourth from left), and

and Sampiro owners Ian and Sandra Paradies (second and third from left, respectively)