Manila Standard - 2023 April 24 - Monday

REDS IN WESTERN VISAYAS NOW IN SHAMBLES—AFP

AFP: PH could expand EDCA

Pact with US could cover more military bases for ‘360-degree protection’

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Sunday that the country’s Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States could be further expanded to cover more military bases to improve the country’s defenses.

In an interview on radio dzBB, AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilarsaid more EDCA sites, to be built up with

US funding and which would be accessible to American troops and equipment, would provide the Philippine military

with the capability to provide “360-degree protection.”

The government recently announced four new EDCA sites: Naval Base Camilo Osias in Sta. Ana, Cagayan; Lallo Airport in Lal-lo, Cagayan;Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela; and Balabac Island in Palawan.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the four additional EDCA sites would not be used for offensive actions.

The five existing EDCA locations are Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan, Basa Air Base in Pampanga, Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija,Mactan-Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu, and Lumbia Air Base in Cagayande Oro City.

The Senate committee on foreign relations, however, questioned thelocation of the EDCA sites, particularly two that were near Taiwan, which is a bone of contention between China and the

United States.

Over the weekend, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) said it has been briefed on the operations and other specifications of the American-made MIM-104 Patriot surface-to-air missile system. In a statement over the weekend, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. ConsueloCastillo said it was made possible during the air and missile defense subject

DOH clarifies COVID Alert Lv. 2 in 26 areas

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

THE Department of Health on Sunday clarified the 26 provinces and cities under COVID-19 Alert Level 2 were not escalated from Alert Level 1. Instead, the DOH noted these areas have maintained their Alert Level 2 status since June 2022.

Furthermore, the Health department stressed that no province or city has been escalated to Alert Level 2 from

Alert Level 1 since January 2023.

While the Alert Level 2 areas have reached low risk classifications for cases and utilization rates, the DOH said these have vaccination rates lower than 70 percent of the target total and population and/or 70% of the total A2 population (senior citizens).

"Meeting these targets will allow these areas to be de-escalated to Alert Level 1," the DOH said.

It pointed out that the Alert Level

System (ALS) continues to provide guidance for every Filipino, so that each may equip themselves with better layers of protection against COVID-19.

The DOH continues to encourage those that are still unvaccinated, unboosted, or under-boosted to get the vaccines as soon as possible while it is still free of charge, especially for senior citizens.

The Health department assured it is

G. Amojelar

MORE than 150 people, including foreign diplomats and officials, rescued from battle-scarred Sudan arrived Saturday in Jeddah, the Saudi foreign ministry said, in the first announced evacuation of civilians since fighting began. At home, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said the government was working out plans to safely bring out trapped Filipinos from strife-torn Sudan. In a statement, Mr. Marcos said the

By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Rio N. Araja

SENATOR Raffy Tulfo said Sunday he would seek an audience with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to discuss ways that the Senate can help ease the energy crisis in Occidental Mindoro, which has been suffering 20-hour outages for more than a month now.

THE National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) has submitted to Malacañang a shortlist of candidates to succeed Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. as the chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), the outgoing chief said Sunday.

Azurin, who is set to retire on Monday, said he was not aware who his possible successors were, adding he was only seeing some names from news reports.

“I think the NAPOLCOM has submitted the shortlist but I’m not aware who are the candidates,” he said.

"While I am excited for what the future holds, I cannot help but feel a sense of nostalgia and gratitude for the past 34 years I have dedicated to this noble profession,” Azurin told reporters after the Philippine Military Academy honored

MAP EXHIBIT. Former Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio (right), former Education Secretary Jesli Lapus and NOW Corp. Chairman Mel Velarde (first and second from left) flank the Murillo-Velarde 1734 Map—the oldest known map of

KONSYERTO SA PALASYO. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Vice President Sara Duterte Carpio, and other government officials appreciate the artists performing in the first ‘Konsyerto sa Palasyo’ featuring the country’s best and upcoming artists (inset photos) on Saturday night at the Malacañan Palace Grounds. Dubbed 'Awit ng Magiting,’ the occasion honored the Armed Forces for its sacrifices in maintaining the nation’s sovereignty, peace and security (see story on A2). Alfred Frias

Solons to plead with President to aid Occ. Mindoro

PBBM lauds Pinoy music on vlog

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reminisced about the past with music as he envisions Filipino talents for music and arts on his latest Youtube vlog.

The President answered various questions posted by some people on social media regarding the recent event of President Marcos for the troops of the AFP at the Palace grounds.

President Marcos said that Filipino artists do deserve the spotlight because of music which is one of the cornerstones of the culture in the Philippines.

Mr. Marcos answered questions about

AFP:...

From A1 matter expert exchange (SMEE) conducted by the 38th Air Defense Artillery Brigade of the United States Army at Naval Education, Training and Doctrine Command in San Antonio, Zambales on April 19.

"During the learning session, subject matter experts from the 38th Air Defense Artillery Brigade discussed the operations, role, various specifications, capabilities, and key parts of the Patriot missile defense system involving the radar set, engagement control station,

Napolcom...

From A1 him with a testimonial parade at Fort Del Pilar in Baguio City on Saturday.

He is a member of the PMA “Makatao” class of 1989.

“Like a roller coaster. Most of the time down, but we were able to recover,” Azurin said of his stint as top cop.

He attributed the PNP’s milestone achievements, particularly in thecontinuing battle against illegal drugs, to the combined efforts of the police force.

PNP spokesperson Jean Fajardo earlier said the police force would leave it to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. the task to choose its new chief.

A change-of-command and retirement honors ceremony for Azurin is scheduled at the PNP headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City on Monday.

The ceremony will conclude Azurin's nine-month stint as chief of the country's 220,000-strong police force, which had been marred by controversies including an alleged cover-up of a P6.7-billion drug bust in Manila last October.

Azurin was also quick to defend Brig. Gen. Narciso Domingo, one of the police officials allegedly involved in the said cover-up.

Speaking at a turnover of the Calabarzon Police Regional Office onSunday, Azurin insisted Domingo, head of the Police Drug Enforcement Group at the time of the bust, had a clean reputation and was honestin all his dealings.

“Unfortunately, some of his personnel thought that it’s still businessas usual. That’s why he requested for that investigation so that he will not be suspected of covering up for his (men),” Azurin said.

Meanwhile, Azurin said he was planning to spend more time with his family after his retirement, even possibly taking them on a vacation.

He also said he was willing to remain a member of the independent five-man panel tasked to screen re-

Filipinos...

From A1

Philippine government was getting more information on the ground to better prepare and ascertain if an evacuation is possible.

“We have about 300 people in Sudan. Unfortunately, none of the airports are functioning. They are still under fire,” President Marcos said.

“We are just waiting to get better information as to whether or not it will be safe to bring our evacuees out of Khartoum, perhaps into Cairo,” the Chief Executive pointed out.

He explained there was no identified secure land route yet as the Sudanese capital of Khartoum is hundreds of miles away from Egypt, where the nearest Philippine Embassy is located.

As of Thursday, the Department of Foreign Affairs said at least 86 have requested to be evacuated or repatriated from the country.

According to the World Health Organization, over 400 people have died in the continued conflict in Sudan since the in-fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group began on April 15.

A 72-hour truce has fallen through, according to Anadolu reports, quoting a local doctors association’s announcement on Saturday (see related story in World page – Editors).

whether he will bring back the old program of his Father, the late President Ferdinand Edralin Marcos Sr. which was the "Concert at the Park."

"It's a successful and brilliant project really, that is why if this became trending and many were interested to watch, maybe we'll bring it back at the Luneta," President Marcos said.

President Marcos then brought back the

missile launchers, and the Patriot missile," she said.

The Patriot is one of the premier missile systems of the United States and is classified as a high to medium air defense system. The SMEE is part of the ongoing "Balikatan" joint military exercises, which started April 11 and will end on the 28th.

PAF participants are from the 960th Air and Missile Defense Group (AMDG), the operator of the newly activated ground-based air defense system (GBADS) consisting of SPYDER medium-range missiles from Israel. The first two GBADS batteries were

signed police officers of any links to the illegal drug trade.

“It will all depend (on) our President. Definitely, if our servicesare being called by no less than our President then we have to acceptthe challenge. We are here to help him in any way we can because, personally, I believe in his leadership,” he said.

Azurin said: “We value the preservation of life. And we do not need to threaten criminals because the guidance of our President is veryclear, to make this country a safe place whether they are inside or outside of their home,” he said.

He will step down amid the investigation into the alleged involvement of some police officials, including generals, in the 990 kilos of shabu seized from the Drug Enforcement Group’s Master Sgt. Rodolfo Mayor Jr. during a buy bust in Manila in October last year.

He maintained there was no massive cover-up as alleged by InteriorSecretary Benhur Abalos.

He said they were able to unmask the syndicates in the PNP.

“So, all I wish now for the PNP is to decide if it wants to continue our fight against illegal drugs,” he said.

As chief, he said he took care of the welfare of the PNP members whom he considered as the most valuable.

“When we were still cadets, we were always told that if you take care of your people, then definitely they will take care of you. That’s the legacy that I would leave behind,” he said.

Azurin thanked the PMA administration under Lt. Gen. Rowen Tolentino for recognizing his service to the country.

He urged the cadets to continue to uphold the PMA values of courage,integrity, and loyalty.

"Get motivated by challenges and be inspired of everyone’sachievements. You are the future of our nation, and I have no doubt that someday you will make us all proud,” he said.

He was appointed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as the PNP’s 28th chief in August last year.

Hospitals continue to be targeted in the conflict as both sides failed to fulfill their commitments under the ceasefire, the Central Committee of Sudanese Doctors said.

An Anadolu correspondent on the ground said the fighting had spread to Bahri and Omdurman, cities adjacent to Khartoum, the CCSD added, noting that clashes had also taken place around the army headquarters and presidential palace.

Both sides accused each other of violating the truce, with the army claiming that the RSF was pushing more forces to Khartoum, while the paramilitary group said the SAF attacked its forces at different locations.

The evacuation was carried out by the kingdom's naval forces with the support of other branches of the army, the foreign ministry said in a statement Sunday.

It announced the "safe arrival" of 91 Saudi citizens and around 66 nationals from 12 other countries—Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Tunisia, Pakistan, India, Bulgaria, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Canada, and Burkina Faso.

The foreigners included "diplomats and international officials," the ministry said without giving further details.

The SAF said in a statement on Facebook that army chief Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan had received requests from different countries to allow the evacuation

memories that he had with his parents called by the social media user "Lola Meldy and Lolo Andie" while playing musical instruments during his childhood days.

Mr. Marcos said that his father's favorite music was the ones sung by Nat King Cole (Nathaniel Adams Coles).

"If he hears the songs of Nat King Cole, he'll get my mother andthey'll dance with each other, that was their favorite." the President said.

One question captured the heart of the President which was, “What was the theme song of him and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos?”

"Oh, it's so easy, ‘Moonlight in

commissioned and activated by the PAF on Nov. 8 last year.

"The aforementioned exercise broadened the understanding of the Airand Missile System Operators of 960th AMDG on air and missile defense operations. Likewise, it strengthened ties and comradery between the PAF and its US counterparts," Castillo said. GBADS, also known as the SPYDER Philippines Air Defense System, is amobile air and missile defense system designed to protect critical installations, land-based fixed assets, mobile platforms, and friendly forces from aerial threats, such as combat aircraft, attack helicopters, unmanned air vehi-

Solons...

From A1

Tulfo, chairperson of the Senate energy committee, said he has discussed the problem with National Electrification Administration (NEA) chief Antonio Almeda.

Almeda said the Occidental Mindoro Electric Cooperative (OMECO), which doesn’t have the funds to buy bunker fuel, would seek a P50-million loan as a temporary solution to the widespread outages in the province.

Almeda also told Tulfo that the NEA has already requested a certificate of exemption from the Department of Energy (DOE) to allow OMECO to enter into the emergency power supply agreement.

This would enable the cooperative to secure modular generator sets from Singapore that can generate up to 17 megawatts (MW).

The NEA also asked for the transfer of four modular generator setswith 2W each from Mindanao to produce an extra 8MW for the province.

These are the same modular gensets that were used in 2013-2014 during the power crisis in Mindanao.

The NEA has also asked DMCI Power Corp. to provide about 5MW of electricity from Oriental Mindoro to Occidental Mindoro. This 5MW will immediately provide an extra four hours of electricity per day in Occidental Mindoro.

LTO...

From A1

"It is understood that the MVUC to be collected during the initial registration shall likewise be adjusted to cover the corresponding registration validity

of their nationals.

"We are waiting for the process to begin in the coming hours as US, UK, France, and China will provide military planes for the evacuation from Khartoum," the statement said.

It added that the Saudi diplomatic mission was the first nation to have its citizens evacuated through Port Sudan, adding that Jordan would use the same route.

Kuwait also said Saturday that it had launched an "emergency operation" to evacuate its citizens.

Foreign Minister Sheikh Salim Abdullah al-Jaber al-Sabah said all Kuwaitis who wanted to return to the Gulf country have safely reachedthe city of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia and that efforts continued to get them to Kuwait.

Saudi Arabia "worked to provide all the necessary needs of foreignnationals" ahead of their departure to their respective countries, the statement added.

Saudi state-run Al-Ekhbariya television released several videos of warships approaching Jeddah's port on Saturday.

The evacuees were received by officials and soldiers who distributed sweets on the occasion of the Islamic Eid al-Fitr holiday which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, footage showed. Women and children holding Saudi flags were also seen getting off one of the ships.

Among those who arrived in Jeddah on Saturday was the crew of a Saudi passenger plane that was hit by gunfire

Vermont.’"

The vlog also showed the captured moments of the President and theFirst Lady on their 30th wedding anniversary wherein President Marcos asked the First Lady to remarry him.

The vlog ended with a short message from the President calling the Filipinos to sing together towards a brighter future and tomorrow.

"Music is the language that unites mankind, may it be from differentraces, it gives inspiration and image, capturing our hearts and being patriotic, giving colors to those who were in love or to what we are facing," he said. Vince Lopez

cles, incoming missiles, guided munition, and rockets.

The Philippines and Singapore are the only two countries in Southeast Asia operating the advanced missile system.

The first two GBAD batteries were delivered on Sept. 24 and 29, 2022, while the third battery is expected on May 24, 2024 under a P6.84 billion contract.

A typical PAF GBADS battery consists of a command-and-control unit,three main firing units equipped with four missile launchers, alongwith two support vehicles for field service and munitions resupply.

Charles Dantes

Tulfo was also informed that the NEA and DOE have requested the Department of Finance (DOF) to remove the restriction on the next loan secured by the National Power Corp. (NPC) so that it can provide a subsidy to OMECO.

Tulfo said NEA has asked NPC to renovate and operate the old and unused NPC plant to generate up to 10MW.

Meanwhile, Romblon Rep. Eleandro Jesus Madrona tore into the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) for alleged failing to act on the NPC’s request to adjust power rates that led to the current power crisis.

He said OMECO was not able to supply enough power due to the NPC’s unpaid subsidies.

“To date, ERC has not approved Napocor's request,” he said.

Occidental Mindoro was placed under a state of calamity due to the power outages for the last month and a half, Occidental Mindoro.

Madrona said the power costs have been rising since 2022 due to increased fuel costs from P30 to P60 per liter.

The failure of ERC to properly arrest the issues may spill over to other small islands being serviced by Small Island Power Utilities Group, such as in Palawan, Mindoro, Masbate, Romblon, and Catanduanes.

“This man-made disaster is not only a source of inconvenience and irritation but will also adversely affects businesses especially tourism, which is one of the main sources of livelihood in these island provinces,” Madrona said.

period," Tugade's Memorandum also stated Sunday.

Based on the LTO data, an estimated two million new motorcycles with displacements 200cc and below are set to be registered this year.

These will be the principal beneficiaries of the new policy.

while preparing to take off from Khartoum at the start of the fighting on April 15, according to Al-Ekhbariya.

The broadcaster said that the evacuees were transported in a convoy of vehicles to Port Sudan from where they boarded ships to Jeddah.

It was the first evacuation of civilians from Sudan since violence erupted there a week ago.

Earlier on Saturday, Sudan's army said its chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan had received calls from leaders of several countries to "facilitate and guarantee safety for evacuating citizens and diplomatic missions."

It noted that the evacuations are expected to begin "in the cominghours," adding the United States, Britain, France and China are planning to airlift their nationals out of Khartoum using military jets.

Clashes erupted on April 15 between forces loyal to Burhan and thoseof his deputy-turned-rival Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the powerful paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.

The former allies seized power in a 2021 coup but later fell out in a bitter power struggle.

The conflict—much of which has taken place in Khartoum—has left hundreds dead and thousands wounded.

Heavy gunfire, loud explosions, and fighter jets roared in many parts of the capital Saturday morning, according to witnesses. AFP with Vince Lopez

Poe, Villafuerte push public to register SIMs

By Macon

Ramos-Araneta and Rio N. Araja

Sen. Grace Poe on Sunday called on the public to give the SIM Registration law one final push as the deadline to register approaches.

"Let’s spread the word that all must enlist their SIM for their protection and peace of mind,” she said.

Poe noted that the government and telcos should go all out to encourage our countrymen to register.

"This should be matched with a fortified infrastructure to handle thegush of transactions from those who will sign up their SIM," said Poe.

She reiterated that systems are in place to secure our information andprotect our data.

"In our SIM number, there should be no goodbye. We just have forever," she stated.

Similarly, Camarines Sur Rep. LRay Villafuerte urged the Department of Information and Communications Technology to extend for a month or two the sign-up of SIM card registration, saying holders of over 100 million SIM numbers have yet to list up as the April 26 registration deadline nears.

He reminded the DICT that a nonextension of the four-month registration period would mean the automatic deactivation the day after of the SIM numbers of subscribers who fail to beat the original registration deadline set by Republic Act 11934, or the SIM Registration Act. Villafuerte is one of the authors of RA 11934.

“This is an 11th-hour appeal to the DICT to stretch the SIM registration period by a month or two to avoid shutting out from digital and financial inclusion the legion of Filipinos who legitimately own possibly most of the 100 millionplus still-unregistered SIMs at this point,” he said. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

DOH...

From A1 continuously working with the local government units of the identified provinces and cities to increase their COVID-19 vaccination coverage.

“Moreover, the DOH continues to monitor our health system capacity toensure that Filipinos can continuously avail of healthcare services,” it said. “Although some hospitals have reported some increases in admission, no hospital has reported full capacity.”

Meanwhile, the DOH reminds the public that as the country continues to reopen the economy, “we need to ensure that we are healthy.”

"This is not the time to get sick. We have seen reports that some hospitals have increasing admissions for other diseases (e.g. heart diseases) and these diseases account for admissions during pre-pandemic time," it said.

Also, the department said the ongoing El Niño heat may trigger worsening symptoms of other diseases.

The DOH encourages everyone to keep safe and healthy.

"Get vaccinated and boosted. Protect yourself and your family," it added.

Alert Level 2 remains over Cebu province, Benguet and 24 other provinces until the end of April.

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF), however, did not cite case counts to explain the higher alert level.

Alert Level 2 will prevail until April 30 in Benguet; Ifugao; Quezon Province; Palawan; Camarines Norte; Masbate; Antique; NegrosOccidental; Bohol; Cebu Province; Negros Oriental; Leyte; Western Samar; Lanao del Norte; Davao de Oro; Davao del Norte; Davao del Sur;Davao Occidental; North Cotabato; Sarangani; Sultan Kudarat; Dinagat Islands; Basilan; Maguindanao; Sulu; and Tawi-Tawi, the IATF said.

Under Alert Level 2, certain establishments and activities are allowed to operate at 50 percent capacity indoors for fully vaccinated adults (and minors, even if unvaccinated), and 70 percent capacity outdoors.

Metro Manila, the Cordillera Administrative Region, Region I, RegionII, Region III, and Region IVA and IV-B, Region VII, VIII, IX, X, XI,XII, Caraga and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao remain at Alert Level 1, the lowest in the alert level system.

No restrictions are set on establishments and places of work as long as conditions are consistent with minimum public health standards.

The IATF resolution was approved April 14 and signed by Department of Health Officer-in-Charge Maria Rosario Vergeire and Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., chairperson and vice chairperson of the IATF, respectively. With Darwin Amojelar (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Every day is Earth Day at SM Supermalls!

1700 children celebrate Earth Day at SM malls nationwide

SM SUPERMALLS, in collaboration with its corporate social responsibility arm, SM Cares, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), local government units and partner schools and organizations joined the rest of the world in celebrating Earth Day at SM malls nationwide on April 22, 2023.

With the theme “Invest In Our Planet, Invest In Our Youth,” SM Supermalls and SM Cares lined up various activities that aimed to raise awareness among children and their families about the importance of coming together across various sectors to take care of the environment. SM malls nationwide simultaneously held relevant and impactful celebrations with activities such as Children’s Storytelling, Coloring, and Sustainability Tours, gathering 1700 children and 350 employee volunteers. These activities aimed to encourage everyone in the family, particularly the young ones, to protect and respect Mother Earth.

Earth Day is an annual celebration led by the Earth Day Network that puts the spotlight on issues that are affecting the environment. First held in 1970, Earth Day was the result of a need for a unified response against various environmental problems like pollution and resource depletion. Today, the event is considered the biggest environmental movement in the world, with millions joining celebrations every year.

“At SM, every day is Earth Day. However, today we are reminded of our responsibility to protect the planet we live in. We believe that we must all come together and take the necessary steps against this climate crisis and accelerate a greener and

—Ms. Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance and SM Cares Program Director for the Environment SM Supermalls featured the art of multi-awarded Filipino artist, sculptor and illustrator, Manuel Baldemor. His works depict the rich cultural aspects of the Philippines and can be found in multiple institutions worldwide. His drawings and Earth Day poem inspired the Earth Day program at SM, reflecting a long-time partnership on SM Cares programs for the environment, starting with his design of SM’s first eco bags in 2007.

The storytelling activity featured a special Earth Day story based on Baldemor’s artworks. The story reflected simple ways children can participate in living sustainably on their own and with their families. Meanwhile, kids and kidsat-heart were welcomed at the coloring activity section. Participants were given art materials and a selection of Baldemor’s drawings to color in. Malls used recycled materials in designing the activity areas.

And to cap off the celebration, a sustainability tour was held wherein everyone participated in a guided tour to one or more of the mall’s eco-friendly facilities such as the EV charging stations, water recycling treatment plants, waste segregation bins, Plastic Waste Collection booths, E-waste Collection bins and various bicycle amenities.

To highlight the role of collaborating with the public sector in driving environmental programs forward, SM City Fairview hosted the DENR Gawad Taga-ilog Awards photo exhibit, which recognized winning local government units who are leading in protecting Metro Manila’s waterways. The agency also further provided 800 tree seedlings to participants and customers through a DENR Community PanTREE at SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA, SM City Fairview, SM City Novaliches, SM City Marikina, SM City East Ortigas and SM Southmall.

The Quezon City Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department also promoted the city’s Trash to Cashback program to encourage its citizens to be Eco Warriors and promote recycling.

The Earth Day celebration is just one of the numerous ways that SM is promoting sustainable living among Filipinos, and the company has other programs aimed at helping care for the environment. These are the Trash to Cash Recycling Market held every first Friday and Saturday of the month; daily water recycling systems, and environmental campaigns such as the Green Film Festival, Green Retail Agenda, and the International Coastal Cleanup Drive, just to name a few.

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, responsible for initiatives that promote sustainability and the development of the community. SM Cares’ advocacies include programs on Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, and Children and Youth, as well as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative, in addition to its Programs on Environment.

To learn more about these, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

more equitable future for everyone.”

Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor’s artistic contribution provide inspiration for the Earth Day program. Joining him at SM City Fairview were DENR NCR Director Mr. Manuel T. Escasura; Quezon City Vice Mayor, Honorable Gian Sotto; Ms. Andrea Villaroman, Head of the Quezon City Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department, Planet CORA’s Partnerships Director, Cat Trivino and SM Supermalls executives.

DIA DEL LIBRO. A book enthusiast leafs through a book on the life of Che Guevarra exhibited at the Dia del Libro or World Book Day spearheaded by the Instituto Cervantes de Manila in Intramuros, Manila on Sunday that aims to promote the joy of reading.

Danny Pata

Group prods admin to back offshore mining

By Rio N. Araja

A GROUP of investors on Sunday called on the government to support offshore mining in Philippine seabeds for the industry to flourish, aside from fishing.

At a media briefing in Quezon City, Dr. Michael Raymond Aragon, Offshore Mining Chamber of the Philippines Inc. chairperson, said offshore mining is a new and high technology “to cleanly mine for raw minerals in the deep seabeds of our country.”

However, he lamented that the Philippines does not have the high technology and lacks the money, and that there is a need for foreign resources to do this locally.

Offshore mining is entirely different, and much cleaner and greener mining process against the land-based mining, Aragon noted.

‘School heads may switch to ADM’

THE Department of Education reiterated over the weekend that school heads have the authority and responsibility to suspend face-to-face classes and shift to modular distance learning owing to extreme heat situations exacerbated by power outages in several parts of the country.

Agency spokesperson Michael Poa reminded school authorities of DepEd Order No. 37, series 2022, that provides for a shift to modular distance learning if classes are canceled or suspended “due to natural disasters, calamities, and human-induced hazards” to ensure learning continuity.

Poa showed a copy of a memo issued to public and private school heads dated April 20 that allows the switch to alternative delivery modes (ADM) “in cases of unfavorable weather and environment such as, but not limited to, extremely high temperatures which may considerably affect the conduct of

Perpetual Help, Grandsoul open Japanese caregiving training site

IN 2019, the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA Calamba Campus and the Grandsoul Japan Co., LTD sealed a partnership to address the demand for highly skilled caregivers in Japan.

Dr. Anthony M. Tamayo, President of the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta, studied projects that the need for caregivers will steadily increase as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to pose health risks across the globe.

Thus, Grandsoul Japan Co., LTD commits itself to helping every Filipino fulfill their dreams and donated a state-of-the-art facility to the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA in Calamba Campus.

By replicating its caregiving facili-

classroom learning and put the learners’ health and wellbeing at risk.”

“Schools have different situations. Thus, school heads should determine what learning mode is best for them. We are concerned about the effect of hot weather on learners’ health. We remind the school heads that they can immediately switch to ADMs,” Poa told reporters.

Weather bureau PAGASA has warned of even warmer days ahead, with the heat index expected to hit 56°C in Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, and 50°C in Cabanatuan.

On Thursday, the heat index was at

43°C in Dagupan in Pangasinan and at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City.

A survey of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) showed that a huge majority of teachers in the country reported that students are finding it difficult to concentrate on their studies due to “dry season heat.” Meanwhile, Occidental Mindoro has been placed under a state of calamity due to the 20-hour daily power outage for the last month and a half, according to Governor Eduardo Gadiano on Friday (see related story on A1 – Editors).

The country’s “untouched” oceans are rich in mineral resources, such as palladium, manganese, iron, nickel, platinum, copper, silver, gold, lithium, and even “elusive” rare earth elements “crucially needed in the electronic and renewable industries, he said.

“We welcome the approval of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on the issuance of an executive order to operationalize the nation’s tariff commitments under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership of the Asian Southeast Nations,” Aragon told reporters.

“Offshore mining may benefit from preferential tariff reduction for imported industrial goods and equipment,” he said.

The new mining scheme needs allout support from the government, Aragon said, emphasizing that oceans can also utilized for mining, apart from fishing.

ties in Japan to support the establishment of the UPHSD-Grandsoul Japan Center for Japanese Caregiving Education, enrollees get six months of quality Japanese language training and Japanese Nursing Care Training and eventually will have the opportunity to work as caregivers and have the chance to live in Japan.

UPHSD-Grandsoul Japan creates opportunities for every Filipino through its world-class Japanese Caregiving Training Facility.

Well-trained instructors from the Allied Health Department of the university underwent three-month intensive training in Japan so enrollees acquire exceptional knowledge and the skills set required for the job.

Roy Tomandao

PAO working to decongest women’s

Belmonte underscores QC’s ‘huge responsibility’ on climate change

QUEZON City, as a highly urbanized and highly competitive city, has “a very huge responsibility in addressing climate change,” Mayor Joy Belmonte said during her recent State-of the-Environment Address via her official Facebook page.

jails

TO DECONGEST jails in Metro Manila, the Public Attorney’s Office has resumed regular visitations at the Quezon City Jail Female Dormitory.

“Through this, our lawyers will be able to know who among these persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) do not have their own lawyers,” PAO chief Persida Acosta said.

PAO-QC chief Mark Oliver Asis assured Acosta that their public defenders would conduct regular visits as well as execute notarized manifestations to be presented in court.

“It is important that we should look into the well-being of our PDLs,” she said.

With help from the National Bureau of Investigation, led by Dr. Ruperto Sombilon, PAO recently spearheaded a medical, dental, optical, and legal missioin at the Quezon City Jail Female Dormitory.

“We brought along with us our nurses and two psychometricians,” Acosta said.

It is also important that one’s mental health is being looked into, she stressed.

She lamented many PDLS continue to languish in jail for absence of lawyers. Rio N. Araja

“As we continue to grow, our need for resources, such as energy and water, also increases. The result of this is to have more greenhouses that contribute

BOOK FOR DRIVERS. Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista (3rd right) and Leaque of Transportation and Operators in the Philippines (LTOP) President Lando Marquez (3rd left) lead the unveiling of the book launching of ‘Pagbabago ng Pinoy Driver, Gabay sa Ligtas na Pagmamaneho’ held at Abeerdeen Court Great Eastern Hotel in Quezon City. Joining them are Pasang Masda President Obet Martin (right), and other transport group officers. Ben Briones

to climate change,” she said.

“Since my assumption as (mayor) in 2019, I have already included climes change and environmental protection in my 14-point agenda -- to build a livable, green and sustainable city,” Belmonte stressed.

The mayor said the government declared a climate emergency in Quezon City, giving way for the allocation of 11

to 13 percent of the city’s yearly budget in programs related to climate change, reduction of carbon emissions, and other environmental concerns. According to Belmonte, several of the city’s climate change measures were the implementation of the trash- tocashback program; deployment of 100 electric buses in eight routes and more than 200 electric tricycles; creation of

the Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department; provision of a livable community for the residents; ban of plastic use, and use of solar energy in the city hall buildings. She disclosed the city would extend the 90-kilometer bike network along major thoroughfares to 350 kilometers by 2030, and to field more electric buses and tricycles. Rio N. Araja

Researchers fighting coconut rhino beetle

RESEARCHERS have launched a project to mitigate the risk of coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) infestation in typhoon-stricken coconut regions.

The Philippine Coconut Authority Davao Research Center (PCA-DRC) is implementing the project, “Pest Management Strategies for CRB in Typhoon OdetteAffected Regions” being funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (PCAARRD).

5.6 quake rocks north Luzon; No damages

Some residents also felt Intensity V in Penablanca; Intensity IV in Gonzaga, Cagayan; Intensity III in Ilagan, Isabela; and Intensity II in Casiguran, Aurora, as well as in the cities of Laoag, Batac, and Pasuquin town in Ilocos Norte, Santiago City in Isabela, Tabuk City in Kalinga, and Madella in Quirino province.

The project team led by Johana C. Orense of PCADRC assesses CRB incidences in affected farms and facilitates the application of the biological control agent (BCA) green muscardine fungus (GMF) and other integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for CRB.

In partnership with the PCA Albay Research Center and PCA Regional Office XIII, PCA-DRC is mass-producing and distributing GMF to affected regions.

Orense said they will also train the affected coconut farmers on IPM for CRB in the coming months.

She added apart from mass producing GMF, the project team also monitored and assessed the extent of beetle damage and IPM requirements in Typhoon Odetteaffected regions. Butch Gunio

TRAINING CENTER. (From left) Dr. Ernesto F. Ramirez, School Director, UPHSD Calamba Campus, Dr. Marjorie Gutierrez-Tangog, Executive Vice President, UPHSD, Mr. Dan Navarro, President, NFRI, Dr. Anthony Jose Moran Tamayo, President, UPHSD, Mr. Toni June Tamayo, Regional Director, TESDA, Mr. Atsushi Tsujimura, President, Grandsoul Japan, Hon. Kanno Chihiro, First Secretary and Labor Attache, Embassy of Japan, Mr. Kimio Nakatani, General Manager, Grandsoul Japan, open the new training center in Calamba, Laguna. Roy Tomandao

Will the President collect?

mentarily during the Balikatan exercises, the biggest of which is on-going, equipment which the American soldiers bring back to Okinawa or San Diego after the joint military exercises.

And our generals press Congress thereafter, with little success, to purchase in the name of modernization.

EDITORIAL

Shoulder-to-shoulder

BY THE end of this week, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will fly to the US of A, on an official visit where he is to have a tete a tete with President Biden at the White House on May 1. There may be some significance to the date, which is universally commemorated as Labor Day.

The Philippines continues to “labor” for America, perhaps no longer as “hewers of wood and drawers of water” as there are not much more natural resources for us to export to the rich countries. We had cut down our timber in Mindanao and sent them to the US as “Philippine mahogany” and later to the Japanese in the 60s, and American companies mined our gold, during which time we were hosts to several military bases in our islands, the last big ones being Subic and Clark, which, thanks to the Senate under Jovito Salonga, we closed down.

Now, in apparent reversal of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s “independent” foreign policy, we have offered the Americans, our “beloved allies” the use of nine different strategically-located sites for “joint use” as part of the Visiting Forces Agreement and its version of “enhanced defense cooperation.”

In one very real sense, America’s newest identified “enemy,” the People’s Republic of China, had it coming.

They bullied us in what is ours in the vicinity of the South China Sea which we call our West Philippine Sea, over which our “beloved” America just watched on the sidelines, and due to several incidents particularly against our fishermen, many of our people began to “hate” China.

Can or will our President be able to collect from the allmighty US of A after agreeing yet once more to be America’s little brother in Southeast Asia?

Survey after survey shows that we dislike the Chinese even more than the Japanese invaders where half a million of our forefathers were killed.

And despite extraction of every economic advantage in their favor during and even after their colonialist years such as parity rights, we continue to “love” America with trusting passion.

Not until 2016 did we have a president who never set foot nor paid obeisance to our “beloved” America, and profusely declared admiration, even “love” for Xi Jinping and the likes of Vladimir Putin, while he cursed Barack Obama.

Despite this contrast with the Filipino’s obsession with the US of A, paradoxically, Duterte has maintained the highest trust and approval ratings.

Yet towards his last year in office, after suspending the operation of EDCA which his predecessor PNoy acquiesced to, and other predecessors FVR and Erap fathered through the VFA, Duterte agreed to fully restore the VFA after a July 2021 meeting with the US Defense Secretary.

He justified the acquiescence because the pandemic had crippled the country and we needed vaccines which America had developed, a case of “give and take” according to him.

Despite his spokesman -- Atty. Harry Roque’s vociferous insistence that America owed us big time – comparing what perennially troubled Pakistan got in aid (US$16 billion in 16 years versus our US$3.9 billion in the same period of time), President Duterte gave in.

We got 3.2 million doses of Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines, on top of a laundry list of military equipment to “modernize” our defense system.

Whether the modernization is real or we are to receive, as in the past 60 years, hand-me-downs some of which were of WW II vintage, this writer cannot ascertain. What is clear is that our soldiers drool over the modern arms and munitions they get to use mo-

Sometimes you get the impression that the joint military exercises are likewise an opportunity to “sell” hardware to us through live demonstration.

Be that as it may, what is done is done. The weak depend on the strong.

Meanwhile that we were happy with crumbs and were middling our way oh-so- incrementally towards economic growth, once impoverished China with its billions of mouths to feed, was marching by leaps and bounds towards prosperity, at a pace never before witnessed in world history.

And now that it wants to “re-unify” Taiwan into the mainland, consistently labelling the island as a “renegade province,” America wants to re-define its long maintained “strategic ambiguity” towards the “strategic clarity” as expressed by Joe Biden himself as willingness to defend Taiwan against a Chinese take-over.

And our President acquiesced, verbally yet, according to Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo in a Senate hearing, to add four locations on top of the five previously agreed to, three of which point without any doubt towards the potential theater of conflict between Taiwan and China.

Is the written agreement to be signed come

May 1 in Washington, DC?

Three of the new locations are in Lal-Lo airport which was originally intended as a commercial airport for domestic and regional use; the Camilo Osias Naval Base in Sta. Ana, Cagayan (erratum: in last Thursday’s article, I hastily typed San Vicente instead of Sta. Ana – my bad), both of which are within “spitting” distance of the channel that separates Taiwan from Luzon, and the Camp Melchor de la Cruz army base in Gamu, Isabela.

The president’s sister, Sen. Imee, wondered why these locations face Taiwan, if they are indeed for defense purposes.

Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian likewise asked “why not Bicol?” if these are for immediate disaster response.

Unable to justify the choices, Sec. Manalo said these sites have yet to be finalized in writing anyway.

Meanwhile, after the brouhaha raised by Ambassador Huang Xilian’s undiplomatic statements before a captive audience of “understanding” China lovers, newly-minted Foreign Minister Xin Gang flies to our country to confer with Manalo and the President.

One would think this is a case of “patay-sunog” yet just before he left China, Qin made a statement: “The Taiwan question is the core of the core interests of China,” followed by the firm assertion that “we will never back down in the face of any act that undermines China’s sovereignty and security. Those who play with fire on Taiwan will eventually get themselves burned.”

Now that ain’t “patay-sunog”. As we locals would say, “nanggagatong pa.”

Vamos a ver.

After listening to Qin, our President will report to Biden on Labor Day, after which he will fly to London to visit the king on his coronation, and thereafter fly back after attending an ASEAN confab in Indonesia.

Can he please collect payment from the US of

A for his clear departure from the foreign policy of his predecessor Duterte?

One such payment is in getting Biden to extend our GSP+ privileges which we enjoyed until it expired in 2020 and has not since been extended.

After the pandemic has abated, perhaps it is time to renew?

Those GSP+ privileges, which we also enjoy with the EU but due to expire by the end of this year, are the main reason why FDIs go to our ecozones to the extent of 26 percent of our total exports, my DTI source said.

In the EU, they will mix politics with economics, and will likely discuss human rights and Leila de Lima when they make a decision to extend the GSP+ or not.

The US also presses on similar topics of interest, but nothing matters more at this point than to threaten China if it departs from the status quo on the Taiwan Strait.

Having made ourselves an accomplice to America’s strategic interest in the area, the GSP+ and the long-aspired for free trade agreement are the least we could ask.

As if to warn us not to dream too much, the US trade representative Katherine Tai who visited here recently doused cold water on an FTA, while stating that the GSP+ extension is up to Congress.

Can or will our President be able to collect from the all-mighty US of A after agreeing yet once more to be America’s little brother in Southeast Asia?

FOUR days to go before the end of the nearly threeweek Balikatan joint Philippines-US military exercises, both sides appear to have learned much from each other.

On the one hand, Filipino troops have been able to get to know the capabilities of advanced weaponry, such as the truckmounted HIMARs, or High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, that can reach targets as far as 80 kilometers away.

That means, if our estimates are correct, multiple rockets fired from Manila can reach targets in, say, Angeles City in Pampanga. The US has supplied Ukraine with such a system to fight the Russian invasion since February 2022.

On the other hand, we have seen newspaper photos of Filipino troops giving their American counterparts training in martial arts, or hand-to-hand fighting, if ever the situation calls for it.

There’s a big difference between what the world’s most powerful military can impart to our armed forces and what our own military, among the weakest in Southeast Asia, can teach the Americans. But that’s to be expected.

Is China our friend or our foe?

What’s important, from where we sit, is the shared commitment to maintain peace and stability in the region amid growing tensions in the Taiwan Strait and in the South China Sea.

Both sides have every reason to be worried over China’s intentions in so far as Taiwan is concerned. Beijing considers Taiwan as a renegade province that must be reunited with the mainland at all costs; it has time and again said it has not renounced the use of force in bringing the island back under its control.

A recent three-day military drill by China around Taiwan using air and naval

assets is disturbing, to say the least, as it portends an imminent invasion in the years to come, even as early as 2025, if we’re to believe updated assessments by the US military.

Beijing’s extreme reaction to the Philippine government’s decision to expand the number of sites under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA)—practically telling the Philippine government to reconsider its move or else this put in jeopardy the safety and security of nearly 160,000 Filipino workers in Taiwan—is tantamount to bullying and intimidation by our powerful neighbor that does not bode well for the future of our bilateral ties with China.

Recent events, such as swarming activities by the Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia against our troops monitoring the situation in our Exclusive Economic Zone in the South China Sea under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and, more recently, the Chinese ambassador’s tactless remarks on Manila’s decision to allow the Americans to expand military presence in northern Luzon raises the question: Is China our friend or our foe?

ADR’s legacy of excellence, courage, and honor

territory.

cent of the deterrence strategies of the cold war era.

Adherence to the rules-based international order has always been the cornerstone of Ambassador Del Rosario’s advocacy. He staunchly espoused this principle as foundational to peace, security, and stability that has promoted an unprecedented era of economic growth in the Indo-Pacific.

WE HAVE lost a great statesman and a true patriot in the passing of former Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Albert F. del Rosario. His ambassadorial career has been an exemplar of leadership and patriotism that demonstrated his uncompromising commitment to uphold the interests of our country amidst the complex geopolitical dynamics we now face. His passing has shocked our nation and the global diplomatic community which he has skillfully engaged with excellence, courage, and honor.

Ambassador Del Rosario leaves a roster of legacies that are of profound impact to our country’s national security.

Against all odds, he led the Philippines to victory in the historic case lodged before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague which delivered a unanimous verdict that scathingly rejected China’s expansive “nine dash line” claim of roughly 85 percent of the South China Sea.

The decision declared the claim as having no basis in international law and that China has violated Philippine territorial rights.

The decision reaffirmed the Philippines’ territorial claims covered by the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and became a catalyst for the emergence of an Indo-Pacific alliance of nations that have committed to maintain the stability and regime of coprosperity under a rules-based international order.

China has expectedly refused to recognize the decision and continues to disrespect international law with persistent acts of aggression and militarization in the South China Sea.

The level of tension has now escalated to a disturbing display of military technologies from opposing superpower forces reminis-

Almost seven years alter the arbitral victory, the possibility of conflict is frightening prospect that our government must carefully navigate and prepare for.

We must sustain Ambassador Albert del Rosario’s mission to safeguard our national security amidst the current challenges in the Indo-Pacific

Ambassador Del Rosario in one of his insightful statements said, “The possibility of conflict is always present. Our country must continuously build its capabilities to preserve national security and contribute to regional security.

“In doing so, leveraging on our alliances, and expanding our diplomatic networks is a step towards maintaining peace and stability.

“Complementing this, our policies and strategies must be formulated in the name of an independent foreign policy that prioritizes the interests of the country and of the Filipino people.”

In the context of the West Philippine Sea, he has recommended to: 1) Consolidate the support of other countries which believe in the Arbitral Ruling and the Rule of Law, 2) Make China accountable for the environmental destruction in the West Philippine Sea and its blatant disregard of Philippine sovereignty, and 3) Build a minimum credible defense posture to protect our national

I had the honor of closely working with him on some of his speeches and public statements and witnessed his heroic passion and boldness of spirit to fight for the rights and welfare of the country. His work attitude is legendary. His character is an epitome of dignity and integrity presented in the most gentlemanly manner and elegant eloquence is the perfect package for the perfect diplomat which has been internationally recognized with the highest honors.

To mention a few, he was conferred the Order of Sikatuna, Rank of Datu for his outstanding efforts in promoting foreign relations for the Philippines and the Order of Lakandula with a Rank of Grand Cross (Bayani) for his role as Co-Chair of the 2015 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum.

He received the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun from Emperor Naruhito of Japan in November 2022 in recognition of his key role in building a strategic partnership in Japan-Philippines bilateral relationship particularly in strengthening maritime security relations to ensure the safety of ships navigating around Philippine waters.

The power and boldness of his statements are lessons in diplomacy that resonates strong and clear to the subject of his messages and at the same time asserts the honor of the Philippine nation.

He called Beijing a “bully” and called on Filipinos to stand up to uphold the rule of law to prevent bullies from having their ways, “If the rule of law is not adhered to, you will have chaos and anarchy. It will be the rule of law versus the rule of the jungle.

“The West Philippine Sea is ours” and “we do not need China’s consent or permission to use our own resources in the West Philippine Sea.”

We must sustain Ambassador Albert del Rosario’s mission to safeguard our national security amidst the current challenges in the Indo-Pacific.

If we want peace to endure, we must take a firm stand to preserve the rule of law in the international system.

Syrians gripped by grim Ramadan TV series alluding to Assad dynasty

A RAMADAN television series featuring sinister plotlines inspired by President Bashar al-Assad’s family has had Syrians glued to their screens, from those hunkered in the war-torn country to those abroad.

The series, “Smile, General,” is set in an imaginary Arab country.

But references to the Assad dynasty, in power in Syria for more than half a century, are clear through various characters and aspects of the plot.

Television viewership in the Middle East traditionally peaks during Ramadan, when the faithful enjoy programming after breaking their daily fast at sunset.

The series has been screening on a TV channel broadcasting to Syria’s rebel-held areas and on a Qatar-owned broadcaster.

It is also streamed on YouTube, where Syrians living in government-controlled areas can clandestinely watch online.

“It’s the first time in the Arab world that a series alludes to the Syrian regime,” said Fidaa Saleh, a 35-year-old activist living in Jindayris, in Syria’s rebel-held northwest.

“The Syrian people by now know perfectly well that what’s evoked in this series is but

a drop in the ocean of the regime’s crimes,” he added.

Director Orwa Mohamad said the series is “fiction, not a documentary” and aims to “dismantle the mechanics of dictatorships and of taking power by force”.

“But it’s clear the series refers to current and past Syrian regimes, mixing together the periods” of Assad and his father Hafez, who took power in a 1970 coup, he added.

Filmed mostly in Turkey, each episode starts with a quote from Machiavelli. ‘Shines a light’

The show revolves around a power struggle between the president and his volatile younger brother, who controls the military.

Mohamad said it was inspired both by the rivalry between Hafez al-Assad and his younger brother Rifaat, who mounted a failed 1984 coup, as well as that between Bashar and his younger brother Maher, who commands an elite army division.

The show also features a rebellious sister, an allusion to Bushra al-Assad, who moved to Dubai after her husband, a senior security official, was killed in a 2012 suicide attack.

Other characters include a first lady who, like Asma alAssad, extends her influence into the economic sphere

The series includes arrests, killings, corruption, Islamists, foreign powers, and a neighboring country resembling Lebanon, which Syria occupied from 1976 to 2005.

In the show, a retired military officer reveals ghastly skeletons in the regime’s closet.

“It’s a great series that shines a light on the suffering of the Syrian people and refers to the hereditary transfer of power,” said shopkeeper Rida Saidi, 52. He said he followed the show every night from a tent along with others in the

Deir Ballut displacement camp in Syria’s northwest.

Syria’s civil war broke out in 2011 after Assad’s repression of peaceful anti-government demonstrations escalated into a deadly conflict that pulled in foreign powers and global jihadists.

More than half a million people have been killed and around half of Syria’s pre-war population forced from their homes.

The most prominent actors in “Smile, General” are exiled Syrians known for opposing the government, including Maxim Khalil, who plays the sharp, mustachioed president.

Abdel Hakeem Qutaifan, who plays a powerful intelligence chief, lives abroad after being imprisoned for nine years under Hafez al-Assad.

‘Reality is worse’

Hussam Hazber, 32, fled Syria four years ago and said the presence of actors “who stood beside the Syrian people during the revolution” was one of the reasons he was watching the show.

The series “crosses all red lines the regime placed on dramas in Syria,” said the student

and activist living in the Turkish city of Gaziantep.

Other characters include a first lady who, like Asma al-Assad, extends her influence into the economic sphere.

A ruthless businessman appears to be inspired by Assad’s tycoon cousin Rami Makhlouf.

Sami al-Doraid, 53, who was arrested in Damascus for taking part in protests early in the uprising, said the series “re-opens wounds.”

“It clearly shows the crimes of this dictatorship. When it shows the prisons, it reminded me of when I was arrested -- but the reality is even worse,” said the teacher, now living in the rebel-held northwest.

In Damascus, people refer to the show as “the other series”, to avoid problems.

“Though it didn’t meet our expectations, I watch it because it touches on the situation in Syria,” said Ibrahim, a teacher in his 30s who declined to provide his surname due to security concerns.

“I get together with friends and we try to guess which scene corresponds to what in real life.” AFP

Tolentino seeks to halt BSKE in Negros Oriental

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Francis Tolentino is seeking to defer the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) in Negros Oriental, warning that the current political situation might lead to further chaos.

Tolentino, chair of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights noted that the present political atmosphere in province is not good for the conduct of said elections.

He cited the current peace and order situation in Negros Oriental following the assassination of Governor Roel Degamo.

He also mentioned the spate of violence-related cases which was revealed during the three-day hearings of the Senate Committee of Public Order and Illegal Drugs chaired by Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa.

Majority of the killings were linked to Rep. Arnolfo Teves who was also tagged by the Department of Justice as behind the killing of Degamo.

‘CPP Western Visayas in shambles’

By Charles Arvin Dantes

THE Visayas Command (Viscom) said on Sunday that the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) in Central and Western Visayas has no clear direction after the death of its leader Rogelio Posadas.

Posadas was killed during an armed clash against 94th and 62nd Infantry Battalions in the boundaries of Isabela and Binalbagan in Negros Occidental last Thursday.

Viscom said that the death of Posadas left

Angara wants AICS continued amid oil spill

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Sonny Angara is calling to institutionalize the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program of the Department f Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), saying this will help those affected by the recent oil spill in Oriental Mindoro Angara said most of the residents of the affected municipalities rely on fishing as their primary source of livelihood.

After a ban on fishing was imposed after the Mindoro oil spill, he stressed that the AICS provided fishers with emergency aid to help them while they are looking for alternative sources of income.

“Over the years, AICS has been a great help to many Filipinos who are dealing with various challenges,” Angara said.

While they are working to institutionalize the AICS, the chairperson of the Senate finance committee vowed to continue to push for the funding of the program in the GAA.

In filing Senate Bill 2032, Angara noted that there are still a significant number of Filipinos living in poverty, with families belonging to the lowest income decile making a mere P9,416 a month or P113,000 annually.

“With such meager wages, these families end up spending beyond their means and as a result, they are pushed further into poverty,” Angara said.

a void in the leadership of the CPP-NPANDF in Visayas leaving the group with no clear operation directions on the ground.

“With the death of Rogelio Posadas, the CPP-NPA-NDF in Western and

Central Visayas are now leaderless, with no clear operational direction on the ground. This will further contribute to the leadership vacuum that their aching organization continues to suffer,” Viscom said in a statement.

Posadas was a known rebel leader in the Visayas region and orchestrated numerous illegal activities in the area. He is wanted for murder with a warrant of arrest issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 60 in Cadiz City.

Posadas was also the top leader of

Komiteng Rehiyon - Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor and secretary of the Unified Regional Committee for Negros Island, Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor.

“His death is a crushing defeat to the CPP-NPA-NDF, as this will clearly manifest the decimation of the terrorist group in the Visayas region and will send a strong message to their already demoralized ranks that they have no safe haven to hide, and that the government forces continue to gain grounds on them,” said Viscom.

Tolentino also said if the BSKE will be postponed, then the government’s peacekeeping “forces will have a stronger momentum.”

Degamo’s widow, Pamplona town Mayor Janice Degamo, welcomed Tolentino’s proposition, saying that it will definitely help calm the current political climate in her province.

Tolentino earlier asked the Department of Justice (DOJ) to set-up a Special Prosecution Task Force in Negros Oriental which will help hasten the progress of violence-related cases pending before various trial courts in the said province.

IBP rolls out pro bono legal aid via web portal

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) has launched its Pro Bono Portal (PBP) where indigent litigants nationwide can now avail themselves of free legal services online through the IBP’s “web-based legal aid platform.” In its advisory, the IBP said its lawyers and legal aides nationwide have started their training.

“To avail of legal aid services, a potential client can apply for legal assistance through the PBP which can be easily searched by typing ‘IBP pro bono portal’ or ‘IBP free legal aid,’” the IBP stressed.

“The system then sends the application to the IBP Chapter concerned which can filter out the application and assign it to the member,” it said.

It also said the other important features of the PBP include “the integration of the means and merits test and its language translations to Pilipino and Cebuano.”

Libanan files House bill to encourage foreign language education

HOUSE of Representatives Minority Leader Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan wants Filipino students to draw inspiration from national hero Jose P. Rizal, who developed a passion to learn foreign languages. Libanan has filed House Resolution No. 910, urging the Department of Educa-

tion (DepEd), which is currently conducting a review of the K-12 program, to integrate foreign language studies other than English in the school curriculum.

“Our school system by tradition has been teaching Filipino children to emulate and aspire to be like Rizal. We might as well encourage them to study

foreign languages, just like Rizal,” Libanan said.

Owing to his fascination with foreign languages, Rizal became conversant in Arabic, Catalan, Chinese, Dutch, English, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Latin, Portuguese, Russian, Sanskrit, Spanish, and Swedish.

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte, in her 2023 Basic Education Report, had declared that the Department of Education intends to revise and improve the K-12 program, with the view to developing lifelong learners who are competent and job-ready. Rio Araja

By Roy Tomandao

CAMP VICENTE LIM, Calamba

City – Philippine National Police

(PNP) Chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin

Jr. has announced the appointment of Brig. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez

Jr., former Regional Director of Police Regional Office Calabarzon, as act-

By Butch Gunio

ANGELES CITY — The city government under the leadership of Mayor Carmelo Lazatin, Jr. will start the construction and improvement of 13 facilities including primary care facilities, a reformation center, and new stalls in the

ing PNP Director for Comptrollership following the retirement of Maj. Gen. Jesus Cambay on Wednesday.

Brig. Gen. Carlito Gaces has replaced Nartatez as the director of police in the Calabarzon region.

Before his promotion, Gaces served as the Ilocos Region’s Deputy Director of Administration of Police Re -

public market beginning on April 24.

Among the health facilities lined up to be repaired and rehabilitated are the nine existing sub-health centers in Barangays Pampang, Pulungbulu, Capaya, Tabun, Sapangbato, Anunas, Balibago, Pulung Maragul, and Cutud. Further, two new Primary Care Facilities will be construct-

gional Office 1. Col. Antonio Marallag Jr., the Ilocos Region’s Deputy head for Operations, has replaced Gaces. The revamp took effect on April 19th. Major General Robert Rodriguez, the PNP’s Director for Personnel and Records Management, signed the three officers’ designations.

PNP announces new regional director for Calabarzon Angeles City to start construction of various facilities

ed in Barangays Malabanias and Amsic. These centers will be more equipped just like the 6 Rural Health Units which are now being converted into Puso Centers. This initiative of Lazatin to prioritize the repair of health centers aims to accommodate more Angeleños in their health needs.

FASHION SHOW WITH A HEART. Filipino fashion advocate Renee Salud lead the country’s promising fashion designers in a benefit fashion show, dubbed “Moda de Trabiesa” in Tagaytay City on Saturday for indigent breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy at the Philippine General Hospital. Norman Cruz

PLANTS FOR SALE. A family peddles assorted plants along Laon Laan Road in Sampaloc, Manila. Lino Santos

ROMANTIC SILHOUETTE. A couple spends a romantic day at the Baywalk in Manila on Sunday while the sun is setting. Danny Pata

US, other nations scramble to evac citizens as Sudan battles rip capital

KHARTOUM, Sudan—US troops swooped in on helicopters to evacuate embassy staff from Sudan’s battle-torn capital, President Joe Biden said Sunday, as other nations sought to help their citizens flee deadly fighting between rival generals.

France and Turkey on Sunday also launched evacuation operations from the chaos-torn northeast African nation, where ongoing fighting has entered its second week.

Ferocious battles between the Sudanese army and a paramilitary group -- which has seen fighting with tanks in densely populated Khartoum and air strikes launched by fighter jets—have killed more than 400 people and left thousands wounded.

Biden, who said the US military “conducted an operation” to extract US government personnel, condemned the violence, saying “it’s unconscionable and it must stop”.

Just over 100 US special operations troops took part in the rescue to extract fewer than 100 people, which saw three Chinook helicopters fly from Djibouti, staying on the ground in Khartoum for less than an hour.

France’s foreign ministry said Sunday a “rapid evacuation operation” had begun, and that European citizens and those from “allied partner countries” would also be assisted, without giving further details.

Fighting continued Sunday with the crackle of automatic gunfire echoing across Khartoum and Sudanese mili-

Pope Francis urges dialogue over ‘grave’ Sudan situation

VATICAN CITY, Holy See—Pope Francis on Sunday called for dialogue between warring military factions in Sudan as a bloody outbreak of fighting entered a second week.

“Unfortunately the situation remains grave in Sudan. That is why I am renewing my call for the violence to stop as quickly as possible and for dialogue to resume,” the pontiff said during traditional Sunday prayers in Saint Peter’s Square in Rome.

“I invite everyone to pray for our Sudanese brothers and sisters,” he added. France, Italy, Turkey, and the United States are all evacuating citizens from Sudan.

Ferocious battles between the Sudanese army and a paramilitary group —which has seen fighting with tanks in densely populated Khartoum and air strikes launched by fighter jets -- have killed more than 400 people and left thousands wounded.

The fighting between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s forces and the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of his former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo began on April 15 over a dispute on the planned integration of the RSF into the regular army.

The move was a key condition of a deal aimed at restoring Sudan’s democratic transition after the military toppled former leader Omar al-Bashir in April 2019 following mass citizen protests.

The two men had joined forces to oust a civilian government installed after Bashir’s downfall, before turning on each other. AFP

people flee the battle-torn Sudanese capital. AFP tary aircraft roaring overhead, witnesses said.

Turkey began rescue operations at dawn via road from the southern city of Wad Medani, but plans were postponed from one site in Khartoum after “explosions” near a mosque designated as the assembly area, the embassy said on Twitter.

Scramble to evacuate

Frightened residents, many low on water, food and other essentials, have huddled inside their homes in the capital where buildings have been gutted, lamp-

posts are lying on the ground, and smoke has been rising from shops set on fire.

Heavy fighting broke out on April 15 between forces loyal to army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy turned rival Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the powerful paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The former allies seized power in a 2021 coup but later fell out in a bitter power struggle.

Daglo’s RSF emerged from the Janjaweed fighters unleashed in Darfur by former strongman leader Omar al-

China complains over Sokor leader’s Taiwan remarks

BEIJING—China on Sunday said it had lodged a complaint with Seoul over South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s “erroneous” remarks about Taiwan, as a diplomatic spat simmers between the Asian neighbours.

Beijing and Seoul have traded barbs over a Reuters interview with Yoon

this month, in which he called tensions between China and Taiwan a “global issue” similar to North Korea and blamed recent heightened tensions on “attempts to change the status quo by force”.

China claims self-ruled, democratic Taiwan as its territory and has vowed to bring the island under its control one day, with Beijing insisting that its dealings with Taipei are purely internal matters.

The Chinese foreign ministry said Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong had been ordered on Thursday to make a “solemn representation” to the South Korean ambassador over Yoon’s comments.

Sun told the ambassador Yoon’s remarks were “totally unacceptable” and expressed “strong dis-

satisfaction,” the ministry said.

China’s statement comes ahead of Yoon’s state visit to key ally the United States, which Beijing has blamed for arming Taiwan and encouraging proindependence politicians.

The Taiwan question is a matter “belonging to the Chinese themselves and no force can be allowed to interfere,” Sun said, urging Seoul to “adhere to the One-China Principle and be careful in words and actions relating to the Taiwan issue.”

China’s foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin had previously criticised Yoon’s remarks, calling it a “universally known fact” that the Taiwan issue was not comparable to tensions on the Korean Peninsula. This prompted South Korea’s foreign ministry on Thursday to berate China for its “serious diplomatic discourtesy.” AFP

Bashir, where they were accused of war crimes. Multiple truces have been agreed and ignored.

Khartoum’s airport has been the site of heavy fighting with aircraft destroyed on the runway, and is under the control of the RSF.

US Under Secretary of State John Bass said that the RSF “cooperated to the extent that they did not fire on our service members”, warning any wider effort to evacuate thousands of other American citizens was unlikely in the

Ukraine slams Chinese envoy to France’s ‘absurd’ remarks

KYIV—Ukraine on Sunday condemned what it called “absurd” comments from China’s ambassador to France, who questioned the sovereignty of post-Soviet countries.

Speaking Friday on the LCI news channel, ambassador Lu Shaye suggested countries that emerged after the fall of the Soviet Union “don’t have effective status under international law because there is not an international agreement confirming their status as sovereign nations.”

The comments cast doubt not just on Ukraine, which Russia invaded last

February, but all former Soviet republics which emerged as independent nations after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, including many members of the European Union.

Meanwhile, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Saturday was again at odds with Europe over Ukraine while pressing his first European tour since resuming office in January.

The veteran left-winger is seeking to revive his country’s diplomatic ties after four years of relative isolation under his far-right predecessor Jair

Bolsonaro, but tensions have been on display with the West over Ukraine.

On Saturday, Lula again called for a “negotiated” settlement between Kyiv and Moscow more than a year after the Russian invasion.

The Brazilian leader has angered Ukraine by saying Kyiv shares blame for the war and has not joined Western nations in imposing sanctions on Moscow or supplying ammunition to Kyiv.

Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhaylo Podolyak replied on Sunday that the status of post-Soviet countries was “enshrined in international law.” AFP

India arrests firebrand Sikh separatist after major hunt

AMRITSAR, India—-Indian police arrested Sunday a firebrand Sikh separatist after a month-long manhunt that sparked protests and vandalism among the diaspora in Britain, Canada and the United States.

Amritpal Singh rose to fame in the northern state of Punjab calling for a separate Sikh homeland known as Khalistan, the struggle for which sparked deadly violence in India in the 1980s and 1990s.

Police said they arrested Singh at around 6:45 am (0115 GMT), having surrounded a village following intelligence that he was there in a gurdwara, or Sikh temple.

“Once he got the message that he had no escape route and he was surrounded, he was arrested,” senior police official Sukhchain Singh Gill told reporters.

Singh, 30, styles himself on Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, a figurehead of the

Khalistan movement killed when the Indian army stormed the Golden Temple in Amritsar, a major Sikh site, in 1984.

He sports a similarly styled blue turban and reportedly travelled to the former Soviet republic of Georgia last year for cosmetic surgery to look more like his hero.

Singh and his supporters, armed with swords, knives and guns, raided a police station in February after one of the preacher’s aides was arrested for assault and attempted kidnapping.

Authorities then tried to arrest Singh in mid-March, but he dramatically escaped, reportedly on a motorbike after changing clothes at a gurdwara.

Deploying thousands of officers in the manhunt, authorities cut off mobile internet for days in Sikh-majority Punjab, home to 30 million people, in their search.

coming days.

More than 150 people from various nations reached the safety of Saudi Arabia after naval forces launched a rescue across the Red Sea on Saturday, collecting both Saudi citizens and nationals from 12 other countries from Port Sudan.

Other foreign countries have said they are preparing for the potential evacuation of thousands more of their nationals, with South Korea and Japan deploying forces to nearby countries, and the European Union weighing a similar move. AFP

Family of Singapore man on death row for cannabis case asks for clemency

SINGAPORE—The family of a Singaporean man due to be hanged next week over a kilogram of cannabis pleaded for clemency from the authorities Sunday and urged a retrial.

Tangaraju Suppiah, 46, was sentenced to death in 2018 for conspiring to smuggle the drugs and the Court of Appeal has upheld his sentence which is scheduled to be carried out on Wednesday.

“We don’t think my brother’s had a fair trial ... I have faith the president will read all our petitions,” his sister Leelavathy Suppiah told reporters in Tamil at a news conference.

“Since young, he’s been kind and wellliked by everyone, and he’s never done anything bad to anyone ... he’s sacrificed everything to help his family,” she added, breaking down in tears.

It will be Singapore’s first execution in six months.

Tangaraju was convicted in 2017 of “abetting by engaging in a conspiracy to traffic” 1,017.9 grams (35.9 ounces) of cannabis, twice the minimum amount that merits the death sentence under the city-state’s tough drug laws. In many parts of the world— including in neighbouring Thailand —cannabis has been decriminalised and rights groups have been mounting pressure on Singapore to abolish capital punishment. AFP

FLEEING KHARTOUM. A grab taken from an AFPTV video shows a convoy leaving Khartoum towards Port Sudan, on April 23, as

ISRAEL PROTEST. Demonstrators light candles during a rally to protest the government’s judicial overhaul bill in Tel Aviv on April 22. AFP

Amritpal Singh

NU captures 2nd straight UAAP women’s tennis title

DANNA Abad led National University to back-to-back UAAP Women’s Tennis titles with a 3-2 victory over first-time finalist University of the Philippines in the best-of-three series conclusion on Sunday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center.

The rookie, who lost only twice in the season, carried the Lady Bulldogs in the clincher, defeating Renee Esteban, 6-3, 6-0, and gifted the school its sixth UAAP title in the event. This is also the school’s sixth title in the collegiate division this season.

“Unang-una pa lang, first term namin, alam namin na meron kaming malalakas na players pero dapat talagang paghirapan. First term pa lang hinanda na namin sila para physically, well-prepared sila. Then this season, prepared naman sila mentally,” said Lady Bulldogs coach Bobby Esquivel.

“Nu’ng natalo kami sa UP (nung second round), instead of getting the twiceto-beat advantage, (nag best-of-three).

Ang talo namin, ang dapat naming irecover is mental,” he added.

The Lady Bulldogs won Tie 1 on Saturday, 3-1, with Elizabeth Abarquez de -

Brownlee-led Gilas vows to bounce back in SEAG

And that’s joining the Gilas Pilipinas national men’s basketball team as they prepare for the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia.

With action set to start on May 9, Brownlee said he is raring to practice and head into action with Gilas, which will try to regain the basketball throne it lost to Indonesia during the 2022 Hanoi SEA Games.

“I’m excited. We lost last year, and that’s where the motivation comes.

So it’s basically understanding that the Philippines has always won gold most of the years, especially in recent past years,” said Brownlee. Brownlee talked about his next mission, moments after the Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings took a 93-97 loss on Friday to TNT in Game 6 as the Tropang Giga took the 2023 Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup crown at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

The 6’6” Brownlee fought off a bum stomach and food poisoning which forced him to leave the second half of Game 5.

The 34-year-old Brownlee, who still played in Game 6, said he never wanted to make an excuse out of the

situation that he went through.

“We definitely don’t want to use that as an excuse … because I don’t want to take nothing away from Talk N Text, they played an incredible series,” said Brownlee.

Brownlee went on to finish with 29 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, a steal and two blocks in 45 minutes.

Gilas Pilipinas will be in a group separate from defending champion Indonesia.

Team Philippines has been bunched with Malaysia, Vietnam, and Myanmar in Pool B.

The Indonesians, who beat Gilas for the gold last year, will be in Pool A along with Thailand, Singapore, and Cambodia.

PBBM to boost morale of SEAG-bound PH athletes

By Randy Caluag

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will personally meet and boost the morale of the Cambodia-bound Filipino athletes during the send-off ceremony on Monday (April 25) at the Philippine International Convention Center.

The staff of the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Olympic Committee have been busy working on the health protocols until the weekend for the more than 1,000 strong delegates that will carry the pride of the county in the 32nd edition of the Southeast Asian Games.

Participants from different National Sports Associations and those who are joining the sendoff, including the covering media, were asked to undergo antigen tests and submit health declaration forms before entering the venue for the 3 p.m. affair.

Team Philippines is aiming to improve on its fourth-place finish in last year’s edition of the biennial meet hosted by Vietnam. For this SEAG edition in Cambodia, organizers lined up 608 events in 38 sports, but they put a cap on the number of events other countries can participate, especially, in combat sports. Only host Cambodia is allowed to field athletes in all the events and weight categories.

In Vietnam, the Philippines sent 656 athletes and brought home 226 medals composed of 52 gold, 70 silver, and 104 bronze medals for fourth place overall.

The presence of no less than the highest official of the land is a big morale boost for the 908 Filipino athletes. who will carry the country’s tri-colors from May 5 to 17, although competitions in some sports take place days earlier beginning April 29.

President Marcos, in his earlier instructions to the PSC, committed to providing the athletes with better nutrition and support for training.

The PSC under chairman Richard Bachmann is doing just that, although there is more room for improvement since he has only taken office barely four months.

Marcos, a couple of days ago, received several Filipino athletes in a courtesy call in Malacanang, including boxers Melvin Jerusalem, Charly Suarez, and Marlon Tapales; the Makati Football Club; and the Philippine Men’s National Ice Hockey Team.

“The Philippines and its people will remember us once more as this grand culture with such great capacity, with such great potential that you are now showing to the rest of the world. Thank you once again for all that you have done,” Marcos told his visitors.

TO open this column, I would like to give my sincere thanks to the Manila Standard for giving me the opportunity to be a part of this prestigious newspaper. Years back, while I was studying and gearing to become a physician, my usual extra-curricular involvements includes writing for the school/ organization paper (from high school to college), and in a way this serves as the continuation of one of my passions, writing, as a professional. This will also be one of my platforms for my advocacy, promoting a greater awareness and appreciation for Philippine basketball history and culture through collecting memorabilia and

feating Rachel Velez, 6-1, 7-6; Allyssa Bornia and Alliah Ragunton beating Sydney Enriquez and Jesha Cervantes, 7-5, 6-3; and Abad besting Esteban, 6-3, 6-2. Joshea Malazarte got one for UP after JM Carcueva retired in the third set.

This time around, seniors Bornia and Ragunton won the first doubles match convincingly, upending Enriquez and Cervantes, 6-1, 6-2, to put the Lady Bulldogs in front.

Velez then turned back JM Carcueva in three sets to level the tie after an arduous first singles match that reached 2-6, 6-1, 6-3.

The tie turned dramatic when Rovie Baulete and Angela Cabaral won the second doubles match with a 6-4, 6-2 take of Anica Cari and JM Prado, but the lead did not last long.

Malazarte put the contest in balance again after a huge three-hour three-set marathon past Abarquez, 5-7, 6-4, 7-6. University of Santo Tomas completed the podium after a 4-4 finish in the elimination rounds.

The coronation of season Most Valuable Player and Rookie of the Year will take place at the conclusion of the men’s finals.

New breed of golfers back Highlands Ladies Cup

A ROSTER of mother-daughter tandems will be on hand when the Highlands Ladies Cup is held on Saturday (April 29) at Tagaytay Midlands and Lucky 9 courses, not as competitors but as part of the workforce helping guarantee the successful conduct of the posh club’s flagship tournament. These pairs actually make up the Tagaytay Ladies team, which has produced such winning twosomes since the squad was formed 18 years ago, including Marixi Prieto and Sandy Prieto-Romualdez of Inquirer, with dermatologist Lilibeth de Villa’s daughters – Linnel, Debbie and Angela – anchoring Highlands’ title runs in the WGAP (Women’s Golf Association of the Philippines) Circuit, WGAP Cup and Ladies Federation Games.

De Villa’s eldest daughter Lilet, businesswoman/artist Mathilda Sun and Jessalynn Tan’s respective daughters Kathleen and Patricia, who recently graduated from the Univ. of Edinburgh, Scotland, are all set to join one of the country’s winningest ladies golf squads.

Sisters Chesca and Tara Imperial have mirrored their mother Farah’s golfing prowess, while cousin Kyla Laurel, who is also into college softball, is in the same league of this new breed of young women golfers ready to take center stage when the WGAP circuit and other club tournaments resume.

Meanwhile, Belle Corp.’s Willy Ocier, Rosalind Wee of W Group of Companies, and Sandy Romualdez will hit the ceremonial drive on Saturday, kicking off the milestone 15th staging of the 18-hole fun but competitive tournament backed by Diamond sponsors W Group, Inc., CWC Int’l. Corp., Agrikulture and Ocier.

The Platinum patrons are CLC Marketing Ventures Corp., Parola Maritime Corp., Powerball Gaming, Miniso PH and SM Dept. Store, while the hole-in-One sponsors are Club Car, GAOC Dental, Cobra LTDx Golf (iron set), Regent Travel (barkadahan package for 4 in Dumaguete at Blue Ternate Dive and Wellness Resort, with round-trip tickets via PAL, and Lucerne, with Regent Travel and Moringa-02 as Gold backers.

A Filipino basketball passion project comes into fruition

meeting people from different basketball communities. It will be challenging, but very interesting and exhilarating as well, and I am looking forward to you joining me in this journey. This advocacy started as passion project, brought about by free time during the pandemic three years prior. To provide a short background, as a kid growing up in the 90s and back then living very near as well as having easy access to the Reyes Gym in Mandaluyong City (the practice facility frequented by several PBA teams), my interest in basketball, particularly its local brands, was ignited. This led me to buy sports magazines at the local newsstands in the market weekly, to know more about my favorite teams and players and

keep in step with what’s happening behind the scenes. I fondly remember stashing P5 a day from my daily allowance to be able to purchase one magazine a week (along with the requisite chips and small drink to snack on while reading). However, when we moved to Manila, these magazines accumulated for several years were lost, and through the years, I at times wondered if I would have a chance to have copies of them again. Fast forward to 2020, with some free time and the magic of social media, I was able to contact sellers and collectors, and little by little I was able to “reconstruct” the 90s sports magazine collection I had decades back. Oh, the nostalgia of having those items again! In time, as my collection grew, I

wanted a medium to share my magazines with fellow Philippine basketball fans and enthusiasts and also for them to do the same with their collections, aside from being a way to share basketball trivia, news and updates. With that The BasketVault Facebook community was created (despite my very limited knowledge of creating and maneuvering in social media platform). From just some friends and like-minded colleagues, it slowly evolved into a 3400+ strong active and heterogeneous community composed of members from different sectors of the Philippine basketball scene, from fans, collectors and social media personalities, to players, coaches and executives, to even a few former NBA players, book authors and other celebrities. The community

eventually had a life of its own, with the invaluable help & contribution from its members, evolving into a positive contributor in promoting Philippine basketball history and culture. Through this advocacy, I was able to meet legends as well as movers and shakers of the sport, be part of important basketball-related events in the country, as well as meet and establish relationships with so many people in the world of basketball, experiences that I would not have had if I did not take a chance and pursue this passion project.

The lesson this journey has taught me so far? It’s never too late to pursue what you love, despite how busy life can get.

Until next week!

JUSTIN Brownlee is getting ready for his next big task.

BIKEFEST. The first wave of more than a thousand participants in Sun Life Cycle PH is flagged off at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub in Imus, Cavite on Sunday. The organizing Sunrise Events, Inc. donated 26 bikes and 30 helmets to the City of Imus after the bike ride which marked its return after a three-year hiatus.

Justin Brownlee

President Marcos Jr.

Economists see strong

7.1% GDP growth in Q1

By Julito G. Rada

THE economy likely expanded by 7.1 percent in the first quarter of 2023 despite the risks of elevated inflation and a slowdown in global growth, economists from First Metro Investment Corp. and University of Asia & the Pacific said in the April issue of the Market Call.

“We project robust GDP growth in Q1 at 7.1 percent year-on-year, albeit with downside risks. Big overall employment gains powered by the services sector should support consumer spending, besides the income tax cut and resilient OFW remittances,” they said in the report released Sunday.

“The most recent economic data caught our eye to justify optimism regarding Q1 economic expansion, albeit with a caution engendered by the world economy’s weakness and still elevated domestic inflation,” the economists said, referring to the improvement in the labor market, manufacturing and government spending.

“The 8.6-percent year-on-year jump in employment in February led by faster recovery of the services sector becomes more instructive when we consider that huge tem-

Alliance Global hikes 2023 capital spending to P70b

By Jenniffer B. Austria

ALLIANCE Global Group Inc., the listed holding company of tycoon Andrew Tan, earmarked P70 billion in capital expenditures for 2023 to support the expansion of its property, liquor and gaming businesses.

This year’s programmed capital expenditures represent an increase of 22.8 percent from P57 billion the group invested in 2022.

“For 2023, we raised our capex to P70 billion as we remain optimistic of our growth prospects across all our business segments and as we continue our evolution as a truly premium lifestyle conglomerate,” AGI said in an investor presentation.

It said the bulk of this year’s programmed spending was allocated for property unit Megaworld Corp. which plans to spend P55 billion, higher than P46 billion in 2022.

Megaworld aims to launch P60 billion worth of projects and raise P130 billion in reservation sales this year. It also intends to unveil three new township projects.

Megaworld plans to add 207,200 square meters of office leasable area and 159,000 sq. m. of mall space between 2023 and 2026. It also seeks to increase hotel rooms keys by 3,159 until 2028.

Liquor unit Emperador Inc. programmed P7 billion in capital expenditures this year as it aims to generate 50 percent of business from international operations by 2025.

porary employment for the May 2022 elections bloated year ago figures. The huge vault in business expectations should provide further backing to this,” they said.

Government spending on operating and capital outlays should accelerate starting March, according to the report.

The report said that apart from government and official development assistance-funded infrastructure projects like the Metro Manila Subway and North-South Commuter Line gaining traction, major PPP projects such as the NLEX-SLEX second connector elevated tollway, MRT-7 and Cavite-Laguna Expressway extension of LRT-1 to Cavite hurdled key obstacles.

The manufacturing sector also continued to show expansion both in terms of purchasing managers’ index and volume of production index in the first two months of the year. “The faster opening up of hotels and restaurants will help drive the sector,” they said.

Inflation should decline further to 6.2 percent year-onyear by June despite a renewed climb in prices of petroleum products. Easing food prices will likely offset the fuel price gains, according to the report.

Inflation surpassed the target range last year and reached a 14-year high of 8.7 percent in January 2023 before easing to 8.6 percent in February and 7.6 percent in March.

The economy grew by a 46-year high of 7.6 percent in 2022, faster than the 5.7-percent expansion in 2021. The economy gained mainly from the strength of the industry and services sectors.

CLARK HUB.

Cebu Pacific reopens its hub at Clark International Airport in Pampanga. Attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony are (from left) CEB chief marketing and customer experience officer Candice Iyog, Bases Conversion and Development Authority president and chief executive Aileen Zosa, BCDA chairman Delfin Lorenzana, CEB president and chief executive Xander Lao, Tourism Undersecretary Cocoy Jumapao and LIPAD president and chief executive Noel Manankil.

Tariff Commission preparing list

By Othel V. Campos

THE Tariff Commission is crafting a new set of most favored nation rates that should align with the policy directions and development priorities of the Marcos administration.

It recently wrapped up a series of consultations with stakeholders and interested public and is now undergoing a review process that involves data verification of information submitted in support of parties’ positions and ocular inspection of plant facilities and production processes of businessmen and exporters.

new import duties

The TC will then submit a committee report containing findings and recommendations to the Department of Trade and Industry and National Economic and Development Authority which serve as chair and co-chair, respectively, of the NEDA Board Committee on Tariff and Related Matters.

The commission’s report will undergo deliberations by the CTRM, whose membership is composed of relevant government agencies for subsequent presentation to the NEDA Board. The body is looking to submit its final report to the CTRM by November 2023.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

IN BRIEF

Trading seen to sustain sideways movement

LOCAL stocks are expected to move sideways this week as investors await more leads on first-quarter corporate earnings and the result of US Federal Reserve’s next meeting on May 3.

Analysts said investors would likely stay on the sidelines this week before the more chaotic trading in the first week of May. Aside from the Fed’s meeting, the Philippines’ inflation rate in April is also scheduled to be released in the first week of May.

“The Fed’s next meeting on the second and third, plus economic indicators should prompt watchers to possibly make early chess moves in upcoming sessions,” online brokerage firm 2TradeAsia.com said.

“Better a reactive market than an inert market—more trading opportunities for the former—but practice prudence in intraday trades as funds seek stronger impetus amid the lack of visibility on broader market fundamentals,” it said.

Listed firms began releasing their first-quarter results, which could provide indication if companies would be able to sustain profitability this year despite the macroeconomic headwinds.

Jenniffer B. Austria

It said there is no definite schedule when the MFN tariff for 2024 to 2028 will take effect, “however, we are prepared to implement the revised MFN once an Executive Order is issued by the President.”

Several associations and companies submitted their position papers to the commission prior to the deadline on April 14, 2023.

The TC said the review aimed to determine the appropriate adjustments to the Philippine MFN tariff schedule to promote trade policy stability, certainty and transparency in the trading environment.

New EO to fast-track OSW development

THE Department of Energy said over the weekend President Ferdinand Maros Jr.’s issuance of Executive Order No. 21 would hasten the rollout of offshore wind projects in the country.

“With heightened investor interest in energy projects, especially in renewable energy, it is crucial to have a clear framework that would speed up the development of OSW and speed up approvals of necessary permits. We will work together with the concerned government agencies, local government units, and the transmission concessionaire to implement the President’s directive,” Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said.

Lotilla said the EO would provide clarity and harmonize and streamline permitting processes and leasing fees for OSW projects under a whole-of-government approach and fully implement the Energy Virtual OneStop Shop System to cover all relevant government agencies and bureaus.

by Newsnet against the NTC.

ENTREPRENEUR FORUM. The Czech Chamber of Commerce and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry hold the Czech Entrepreneur Forum 2023 and sign three private sector agreements aimed at strengthening trade and investment cooperation between the two countries in sectors ranging from defense, information technology, security to infrastructure and agriculture. Attending the signing ceremony Fairmont Hotel in Makati City are (from left) Czech Republic economic and trade counsellor Maros Martin Guoth, Czech Chamber of Commerce president Vladimir Dlouhy, Czech Ambassador to Philippines Jana Sediva, honorary consul Guilbert Go, Czech Republic Prime Minister Petr Fiala, honorary consul Mark Frondoso, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry president George Barcelon, Philippine Ambassador to Czech Republic Eduardo Martin Meñez, Smart Citi Teknologi founder, president and CEO Mario Marcos and TESLA Technologies CEO Peter Matejcek.

The Court of Appeals rejected the appeal of the National Telecommunications Commission to recall the AntiRed Tape Authority’s 2020 order to the telecom regulator to issue a certificate of public convenience to News and Entertainment Network Corp. or Newsnet, an affiliate of Now Corp.

The CA Former Special Eighth Division, in a 12-page resolution promulgated on March 28, 2023 denied the motion for reconsideration of NTC and affirmed its July 2022 decision.

Records showed that in July 20, 2022, the CA Special Eighth Division granted the petition for mandamus filed

Newsnet sought the petition for mandamus to compel the NTC to comply with the order of the ARTA dated Feb. 12, 2020 that automatically approved its application for the issuance of a CPC to install, operate and maintain a Local Multi-Point Distribution System to deliver interactive pay television and multimedia services in South Luzon, North Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao in the 25.35 GHz to 26.35 GHz frequency range with authority to charge rates therefor.

The NTC earlier canceled Newsnet’s PA to operate pay TV and LMDS nationwide following the expiration of the latter’s legislative franchise on Oct. 1, 2021.

San Miguel power unit plans to offer output of 1,313-MW plant to Meralco in new bidding process

By Alena

Mae

S. Flores

SAN Miguel Global Power Holdings Corp. plans to offer the output of a 1,313.1-megawatt combined cycle power plant to Manila Electric Co. under a new competitive selection process even after it terminated the supply contract for the same project early this month.

SMGP said in a report to the Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. that subsidiary Excellent Energy Resources

Inc. is constructing the Batangas combined cycle power plant that will utilize re-gasified liquefied natural gas.

It said it would offer the power output of the Batangas combined cycle power plant to Meralco when the latter holds a CSP or bidding later this year.

The company signed the engineering procurement and construction contract with Black & Veatch, BVI (Philippines) Corp. and First Balfour Inc. for the project in December 2021.

SMGP expects the construction period to be shorter with the substantial completion of the first blocks expected in one and a half to two years, compared to three to four years for coal-fired power plants.

Meralco’s previous power supply agreement for 1,200-MW contract capacity for 20 years with EERI, effective Nov. 26, 2024, was terminated on April 1, 2023.

EERI offered a levelized cost of electricity of P4.1462 per kilowatt hour dur-

ing the bidding in February 2019.

SMGP decided to terminate EERI’s and Masinloc Power Partners Co. Ltd.’ s contract with Meralco for a total capacity of 1,800 MW over the non-issuance by the Energy Regulatory Commission of the final approvals of the agreements within the respective long stop dates on Sept. 17, 2021 and Sept. 23, 2021.

SMGP said it was also exploring possible improvements to or the retrofitting of the 1,200-MW Ilijan power plant.

The EO directs the DOE develop and issue a policy and administrative framework for the optimal development of OSW resources within 60 days from the issuance of the order. This includes the integration to the EVOSS System various permitting processes by the permitting agencies.

“OSW, if optimally developed, will play a major role in our country’s goal for a lowcarbon future, improved energy security, and reduced dependence on import fuels,” the EO read.

Alena Mae S. Flores

DOT promotes PH as top location for US

filmmakers

THE Department of Tourism met US-based filmmakers in Los Angeles, California to help promote Philippine film tourism.

The meeting on Apr. 21, 2023 gathered film executives and creative industries stakeholders of LA during one of the ‘listening tours’ of the DOT overseas to collect insights from Filipino and other international filmmakers and devise ways to spur the viability of film tourism development in the Philippines.

“We are determined to push for the country and for the Filipino story to be told, and also to pitch for the Philippines as a viable destination to tell stories from around the world,” said DOT Secretary Christina Frasco.

She encouraged international movie producers and filmmakers to consider the Philippines as their next film location.

The Philippines offers filming incentives through the Film Development Council of the Philippines. Under the FDCP is the Film Philippines Office, of which the DOT is a member. Othel V. Campos

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CA rejects appeal of NTC to cancel Newsnet’s permit to operate pay TV

Shift to low-carbon economy should leave no one behind

“To ensure no one is left behind, countries need just transition and economic diversification policies that are comprehensive, inclusive, and based on social dialogue and stakeholder engagement,” said James Grabert, Director of Mitigation at UN Climate Change. “These policies need to be integrated into national climate action plans, as well as in national adaptation plans, to avoid exacerbating inequality.”

The concept of a ‘just transition’ recognizes that a shift to a more sustainable economy can have significant impacts on workers and communities that are currently dependent on fossil fuels. A just transition means transforming the economy and economic system in a way that is as fair and inclusive as possible to everyone concerned, creating decent work opportunities and leaving no one behind.

The report, which was prepared by the Katowice Committee of Experts on the Impacts of the Implementation of Response, compiles some of the best practices from different countries that are already implementing just transition and economic diversification strategies.

Examples range from social protection for factory workers in Bangladesh where fast fashion is

Globe pursues energy actions in response to climate change

LEADING digital solutions platform

Globe has maintained its score of B in the 2022 CDP (formerly Carbon Disclosure Project) assessment, demonstrating its steadfast commitment to climate action and sustainable business practices.

Achieving a score of B indicates that a company is able to provide evidence of its environmental management processes in addressing relevant risks in its operations, and in reducing the company’s impact to the environment. Globe regularly discloses its environmental impact and mitigation strategies through CDP, bringing in tangible business benefits.

“We are committed to driving energy efficiency in our operations and reducing our carbon footprint through various programs and initiatives. The implementation of intelligent monitoring systems is an important part of this effort, and we are pleased to see the positive impact that they bring to our business and the planet,” said Gerard Ortines, Head of Network Solutions and CAPEX Management at Globe.

Environment, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) ratings have become a standard assessment tool used by investors to measure a company’s sustainability performance, on top of its financial performance. Acquiring good ESG ratings indicates that ESG-linked risks of the company are being managed, which improves investor confidence and overall brand value for customers.

One key aspect of Globe’s climate action strategy is the implementation of intelligent monitoring systems to support energy efficiency efforts. By increasing energy efficiency and optimizing the network’s capabilities, energy requirements are reduced, which means a reduction in carbon emissions from electricity consumption.

Aligned with its ISO 50001-certified Energy Management System and energy efficiency programs, Globe has deployed a range of advanced technologies across its facilities, including a Remote Monitoring System (RMS) for its cell sites and a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) in its core facilities.

Empowering women to lift global output

ROME—Tackling gender inequalities in agri-food systems and empowering women reduce hunger, boost the economy and reinforces resilience to shocks like climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic, a new report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) shows.

The status of women in agrifood systems report, the first of its kind since 2010, goes beyond agriculture to provide a comprehensive picture of the status of women working across agri-food systems—from production to distribution and consumption. The report stresses that globally, 36 per cent of working women are employed in agri-food systems, along with 38 per cent of working men. However, women’s roles tend to be marginalized and their working conditions are likely to be worse than men’s—irregular, informal, part-time, low-skilled, or labor-intensive. Likewise, women engaged in wage employment in agriculture earn 82 cents for every dollar that men earn. Women also have less secure tenure over land, less access to credit and training and have to work with technology designed for men. Along with discrimination, these inequalities create a 24-percent gender gap in productivity between women and men farmers on farms of equal size.

shifting to more sustainable business models to just transition agreements in Spain where coal-fired power plants are being replaced by wind farms and photovoltaic plants.

The report finds that including training and skill-development initiatives in national climate action plans and electricity roadmaps can create equitable and long-lasting energy policies.

The report highlights the Marshall Islands’ Island Eco initiative, which provides technical training to women to assemble, install, operate, and maintain solar-powered equipment, helping the country achieve its goal of 100 per cent renewable energy by 2050. The initiative is also contributing to the creation of decent work conditions in the country.

In Denmark, a former shipyard has been transformed into an industrial park, housing 100 different companies in the

renewable energy sector. More than 3,000 workers lost their jobs when the shipyard closed in 2012.

In the immediate aftermath of the decision to close the shipyard in 2009, a public-private partnership, Lindø Offshore Renewables Center, was established to transform the site into an industrial park for the wind and renewable energy industry. Today, more than 2,500 people are employed across the 100 companies operating on the Lindø site, and an additional 3,000 people are employed in local industry and hospitality supporting the site. The report underscores that there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach when it comes to just transition. Just transition strategies must be tailored to each individual country.

In Nigeria, for example, just transition needs to be seen through

the lens of adapting to the impacts of climate change. Roughly 70 per cent of Nigerians work in farming or fishing. But the country is facing steep declines in agricultural productivity due to extreme weather events and more frequent and severe drought. There is widespread recognition that new jobs and methods of production are needed.

In 2018, the Nigeria Labor Congress launched a joint project with Friends of the Earth Nigeria on just transition in two sectors—agriculture and petroleum. The project has two goals: build a shared understanding and political agenda between Nigerian trade unions, civil society and communities regarding what a just transition would look like for these two sectors in Nigeria; and develop models and best practices for other unions.

UN Climate Change News

Notably, the study underscores that agri-food systems are a more important source of livelihood for women than for men in many countries. For instance, in sub-Saharan Africa 66 per cent of women’s employment is in the sector, compared with 60 per cent of men. In southern Asia, women overwhelmingly work in agri-food systems (71 per cent of women, versus 47 per cent of men), although fewer women than men are in the labour force.

Socioeconomic benefits

“If we tackle the gender inequalities endemic in agri-food systems and empower women, the world will take a leap forward in addressing the goals of ending poverty and creating a world free from hunger”, says FAO DirectorGeneral QU Dongyu in the foreword of the report.

The study explains that closing the gender gap in farm productivity and the wage gap in agricultural employment would increase global gross domestic product by nearly $1 trillion and reduce the number of food-insecure people by 45 million. FAO News

More efficient use of resources reduces waste and pollution, says FAO

NEW YORK—The head of the Food and Agricultural Organization has called for a more efficient use of natural resources to reduce waste and pollution.

“We must use existing biological resources more efficiently, and waste less, instead of relying on finite fossil-based resources,” the DirectorGeneral of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Qu Dongyu, told a high-level event held at the UN General Assembly to commemorate the first-ever International Day of Zero Waste.

Qu said in a video message that as the world population is predicted to grow close to 10 billion people by 2050, there is an immense challenge to meet the rapidly growing global demand for food and non-food agricultural products— projected to increase by up to 56 per cent by 2050.

“To meet this extra demand for agricultural outputs, including food, fiber, fuel and fodder, in an equitable and sustainable way… We must produce and consume in a more sustainable and healthier manner, with fewer inputs,” says Qu, adding that a circular and sustainable economy offers systemic solutions to address these challenges.

The UN official stressed that

A scene of food waste on the street near the Kalimati Vegetable Market in Kathmandu, Nepal, 31 July 2017. Chris Steele-Perkins/Magnum Photos for FAO bio-economy is a current FAO strategic priority to reduce waste and pollution, as it values and promotes responsible production and consumption of renewable natural resources, contributing to climate action, biodiversity conservation and ecosystems restoration.

“For example, waste and residues along agri-food systems can be turned into beneficial products

such as biomaterials, biochemicals, biopharmaceuticals, and bioenergy. In the bio-economy, there is no such thing as waste,” Qu said.

FAO estimates that over 13 percent of global food production is lost between the production and wholesale stages of the supply chain. Furthermore, global data indicates that an additional 17 percent is wasted at the retail, food service and consumer stages. Food

quality is also compromised throughout the entire supply chain.

These losses occur while over 800 million people are undernourished and almost 3.1 billion cannot afford a healthy diet.

Moreover, food loss and waste contribute to 8-10 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

The FAO chief warned the 193 members of the UN General Assembly that wasting food and non-food agricultural products, as well as inputs like plastics, puts unnecessary pressure on the environment.

“It essentially means that we have wasted land and water resources, we have created pollution and we have emitted greenhouse gases with no purpose,” he said.

Qu urged world leaders to identify the hotspots where losses and waste occur and to urgently address the inefficiencies and inequalities in global agri-food systems to make them more efficient, more inclusive, more resilient and more sustainable.

“Reducing losses and waste will not only contribute to our environment, but increase the availability of fruits and vegetables, and improve access to healthy diets”, he said. FAO News

Aboitiz Land offers training to upgrade skills of marginalized Filipinos

ABOITIZ Land, the real estate arm of the Aboitiz Group, joins hands with the Aboitiz Foundation in teaming up with Connected Women to train and support marginalized and disadvantaged Filipino women in Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation (AIDA) skills.

The initiative aims to expand Filipino women’s skills and create for them potential income opportunities. Connected Women will offer training and mentorship programs to beneficiaries through their award-winning Elevate AIDA program. This will open new job opportunities and provide them with the skills and knowledge to succeed.

The partnership is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and diverse workforce in the Philippines, while also promoting gender equality and empowering women. Connected Women, founded in 2017 by Gina Romero and Ruth Yu-Owen, is a social impact tech company with a community of 100,000 women. They have been making significant strides in

empowering women in the Philippines through training in technology skills and upskilling for the global Artificial Intelligence industry.

The organization offers training programs to expand the skills of marginalized and disadvantaged Filipino women, with the ultimate goal of creating potential income opportunities

“We are thrilled to partner with Aboitiz Land in our shared mission to promote gender equality, diversity, and sustainable economic growth in the Philippines.

This collaboration is a testament to our organizations’ unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of marginalized and disadvantaged Filipino women,” said Connected Women co-founder Ruth Yu-Owen.

“Aboitiz Land’s dedication to sustainability, innovation, and gender equality is truly inspiring, and we are proud to stand with them in creating a more inclusive future. We firmly believe that this partnership will have a transformative effect on the lives of countless Filipino women.”

SHIFTING to a lowcarbon economy can unlock new jobs and opportunities but it must be done in a way that is as socially and economically fair as possible for everyone, according to on-the-ground case studies contained in a new report from UN Climate Change.

Bangui Wind Farm is a wind farm in Bangui, Ilocos Norte

Aboitiz Land Inc. and the Aboitiz Foundation on March 30, 2023 sign a memorandum of agreement with Connected Women. Posing after the signing ceremony (from left) are Connected Women chief executive Agnes Gervacio, Connected Women co-founder Ruth Yu-Owen, Aboitiz Foundation Inc. president and chief operating officer Maribeth Marasigan and Aboitiz Land Inc. senior assistant vice president of legal and corporate affairs Irene Mischele Sta. Ana.

Heaven Peralejo

(right) and Marco Gallo are the newest love team, which will breathe life to the lead characters of ‘The Rain in España’

WHAT happens when a teenage ex-couple meets again as mature individuals?

Some ex-lovers may find it difficult to be in the same room together, while others may be able to interact comfortably. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, as it will depend on the individual dynamics between the two people, and whether or ot their romantic relationship ended well.

But why does fate allow ex-lovers to cross paths again?

The Rain in España, the first book in the trending Wattpad University Series by Gwy Saludes, may have an answer.

The Wattpad series with over 570 million reads is finally coming to life as a ten-part series on Viva One, premiering on May 1.

Directed by Theodore Boborol (Finally Found Someone, and Vince & Kath & James), this romantic comedy promises to bring loads of kilig just like the other novels that Viva turned into blockbuster movies including Diary ng Panget, Talk Back and You’re Dead, and Para sa Hopeless Romantic Heaven Peralejo and Marco Gallo who once lived together in ABS-CBN’s

Pinoy Big Brother house, are now the newest love team to follow as they portray the roles of Kalix and Luna. Together they are called #Lukal.

Louisse Natasha Valeria, or Luna for short, is a student of Architecture. Apart from her perkiness, persistence is also one of her strongest traits. Not only does it help her maintain high grades, it’s also how she is able to make Kalix notice her.

Marco Gallo plays Kalix Jace Martinez, a legal management student, although his mother prefers that he becomes a doctor. Handsome, rich, smart, and a man of few words, Kalix has a mysterious vibe. He thought he’s got no time for love, but he can’t help falling in love with Luna.

But their young love is not a fairy tale with a happy ending. Kalix’s faithfulness is put in question and Luna can’t forget about it.

Years later, Luna still remembers everything about Kalix – her feelings for him, their promise to stay together as they reach for their dreams, and how he threw it all away.

But here they are now, both professionals and forced to work with each other. Luna is the head architect of her family’s real estate business, while Kalix runs his own law firm and is the head legal counsel for Luna’s company. They have no

‘The Rain in España’

A Wattpad novel turned into series

choice but to face the pain and regret from the past. Still not over each other, how long must it take to rekindle their love? Are they now mature enough to make their relationship last?

The Rain in España also introduces the other colorful characters that complete The University Series Yanna, a Tourism student who later becomes a flight attendant, and the wildest among Luna’s friends, is played by Krissha Viaje She has a “no strings attached” relationship with Hiro, a student pilot. Her story unfolds in book 2, entitled Safe Skies, Acher Sevi, Luna’s guy best friend who has a secret crush on her, is played by Gab Lagman. Sevi is an Engineering student and the team captain of the basketball team. He also lands a job in Luna’s firm as an engineer. Book 3: Chasing in the Wild focuses on this campus heartthrob.

Samatha, a communication student, is played by Aubrey Caraan. She comes from a rich family and is the social butterfly of the barkada She always prioritizes her friends over herself. Through her help, Luna and Kalix get to see each other often in school.

Sam takes the spotlight in book 4, Avenues of the Diamond, where she will be in an arranged marriage.

Via, an Archi student just like Luna, is played by Bea Binene. She is considered the conscience of the barkada, being one

Reality bites in contemporary drama ‘Papa Mascot’

It still comes as a pleasant surprise to watch Miles as Irish as she showcases the truth that there is no such thing as a small part and limited screen time, and a role makes a mark when you invest brilliance and honesty. Proof of this is the acting duel with Chan that proclaims the units and objectives of the two and the emotional commitment to their respective characters are on point.

of the more sensible girls in the group. She always hangs out with her childhood best friend, but fame will suddenly lead them to different paths. Via shines more in book 5, Golden Scenery of Tomorrow Kierra, Luna’s cousin and best friend, is played by Nicole Omilio. She also studies architecture. She falls in love with Miguel, played by Francis Magundayao, a walking red flag. Kierra’s journey through joys and pains will be revealed in book 6, Our Yesterday’s Escape

Other characters that affect Luna and Kalix’s relationship in one way or another are Amethyst, Adonis, and Leo. Amethyst, a family friend of Kalix, is played by Gabby Padilla. Kalix’s

mom wants Amethyst to be his girlfriend, causing Luna to be insecure. Now a lawyer, Amethyst will take on a dangerous case because of a favor she owes to Kalix.

Adonis, the funny guy who always teases Kalix and Luna, is played by Andre Yllana. He’s one of the reasons why Luna and Kalix need to work together. Leo, played by Frost Sandoval, is a joker just like Adonis. Kalix got jealous of him when he thought Luna was dating Leo.

Since its trailer release, The Rain in España has gathered a total of 6.7 million total views across all social media platforms. Fans of The University Series are all excited to see how their favorite characters and scenes come to life and the fans of the artists are all raving to see their idols on the screen.

Also, no youth-oriented series will ever be complete without a generation-defining soundtrack. With Kean Cipriano at the helm of the musical score, he provides a perfect mix of established and emerging OPM songs that promise to bring the fans a musical experience that is hard to forget. The Rain In España’s official soundtrack features songs from O/C Records artists Kenaniah Fitz Shioda Chrstn and 7th and Viva Records’ Cup of Joe. In time with the premiere of the series is the release of its OST album on all digital music platforms.

Vice Ganda graces

Reader’s Digest April cover

THE latest film of director Louie Ignacio, billed as Papa Mascot, is not about the Philippines’ most favorite bee that spawned fast food chains all over the planet. With a screenplay written by Ralston Jover, produced by Wide, it makes you angry and affirmative on the equal parts of bafflement and heaviness.

This contemporary drama gives not only a voice but a vision of the sorrowful state of informal settlers and how they become victims of lawlessness and injustice. It also shows how the affluent, new moneyed, and well-connected, get the indulgence of lady justice.

Flickering on the silver screen, many scenes are puzzling and confusing and appear to be inspired by tabloid news programs. The resolution of the plot is also abrupt and leaves the viewer feeling perplexed.

The most outstanding aspect of the film is the sterling performances of the trio con brio composed of Ken Chan, the child wow wonder that is Erin Espiritu, and the why is she always damn good Miles Ocampo

As the motion picture’s protagonist and

antagonist, Chan challenges himself by fully fleshing out his character – facial hair, greasy and sweaty, dirty clothes, cigarette puffing, curses, and even fist fights. Emotionally, his Nico is the perfect combination of saint and sinner, oppressed and aggressor, with the lunacy that not only lurks at the corner but consumes and makes his obsession dangerous.

The young actress who steals her scenes without employing the tired and tested cutesy and playing crybaby to the peanut gallery, Erin is all heart and sincerity. She is a wow! Just wow! A premium example of the no-acting kind of acting with her delivered lines – with mature emotions as if she has been acting forever.

Another truly impressive part of this motion picture is the black-and-white flashback sequences. It must be director Ignacio’s homage to the films of Lino Brocka specifically those that presented the lives of the downtrodden. The black and white flashback titillates the senses and as an spectator, the stench and squalor, the mayhem and misery, the dog eat dog world, make the hearts scream, “tama nana, sobra na, ayoko na!”

Adding another layer of greatness to this part are Sue Prado and the legend Joe Gruta

The rich getting away with anything and everything is the most immoral take home from Papa Mascot. And that is where the heaviness comes in. That a poor man like Nico, who strives to get a piece of happiness, is robbed by the people who are supposed to protect and serve, is the grimmest of reality, and it wrecks a massive portion of your heart. That hell is other people, a quote credited to Friedrich Nietzsche, is for real and not just words, and the only means to shake or even defeat the societal status quo is with, as commanded by Russel Crowe in The Gladiator “At my signal, unleash hell!” is both biblical and end of days realness. Papa Mascot on cinemas this April 26, with an R-13 rating from the MTRCB.

FILIPINOS continue to trust ABS-CBN, the country’s leading content company, and one of its brightest stars, Vice Ganda, as the two received another Gold Award and a Most Trusted Entertainment and Variety Presenter Award, respectively from the Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Awards 2023.

According to Reader’s Digest’s 25th annual survey, brands that win a Gold Award are those that received outstanding results, based on the perception of consumers in terms of listening to concerns, sympathizing with their situations, and providing support and assistance.

Meanwhile, the award-winning It’s Showtime host Vice Ganda added another feather to his cap for being one of the most trusted personalities in the country. He is also the front cover of the Reader’s Digest April 2023 - Trusted Brands issue, her second cover for the magazine since 2010. As the Most Trusted Entertainment and Variety Presenter for the fifth year in a row, Reader’s Digest describes Vice as a “national treasure” whose “influential voice and cultural impact makes him one of the Philippines’ most successful entertainers.”

The independently-conducted Trusted Brands survey was done by leading research company, Catalyst, which surveyed 8,000 everyday consumers across the markets of the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong

‘Reader’s Digest’ describes Vice Ganda as an influential entertainer with a cultural impact

Kong, and Taiwan. Catalyst asked each respondent to identify which recognizable brands of products and services they trust most. The complete list of winners appears exclusively in the April 2023 issue of the Philippines Reader’s Digest magazine.

Disney marks 100 years with multimedia show in Munich

DISNEY is putting its cultural legacy on show in Germany in a multimedia exhibition featuring memorabilia from the Magic Kingdom, including the first ticket to Disneyland and drawings from its most famous animated pictures.

From Mickey Mouse to Marvel, the US entertainment titan’s celebration of its centenary opened in Munich this week, the first stop on its European tour.

Visitors are treated to 10 galleries mixing images, sound, and text as well as items pulled from the Disney archives: screenplays, photos, movie props, letters, and memorabilia.

Some 250 original pieces have been put on display, including drawings from the 1937 film Snow White, the snow globe from Mary Poppins and the first entry

ticket to Disneyland. Disney traces its beginnings back to 1923. In that year, Walter Elias Disney, a young advertising artist from Kansas City, produced a number of short-length silent films which plunged real-life heroine Alice into a world of cartoon creations.

The contract signed by Disney for the distribution of Alice’s Wonderland is one of the highlights of the exhibition in Munich.

“Many children today or young people don’t understand that Walt Disney was a real person,” said Becky Cline, the director of the Disney archive. A video of the founder greeting visitors when they arrive at the exhibition.

Mickey Mouse first appeared on screens thereafter in 1928. A page from the original script for the iconic character’s

debut Steamboat Willie, where Mickey is cast as a sailor, is also on display. Characters from Cinderella to the protagonists of the Pirates of the Caribbean series feature in the exhibition, which draws back the curtain on the production of Disney’s most famous pictures. The show also lays out how Disney built its empire through the acquisition of studios such as Pixar and Marvel, as well as the Star Wars movie franchise. The exhibition is open in Munich until September, a choice Walt Disney would likely have been pleased with. He took inspiration from nearby Neuschwanstein castle for Sleeping Beauty’s residence –an image that would go on to represent the Disney group as a whole. AFP

Heaven (left) plays Luna while Marco portrays Kalix

Ken Chan on the red carpet

Disney’s centennial show in Germany features some 250 original pieces and how the brand built its empire

Nickie Wang, Editor Patricia Taculao, Editorial Assistant

Promoting Batangas through sports tourism

CLUB Laiya, Landco’s Resort Estate in Batangas, serves as the official training camp of the country’s beach volleyball teams. The tourist and leisure destination becomes more vibrant and teems with excitement as the practice sessions of beach volleyball players are anticipated to attract sports enthusiasts and fans. The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) and Landco Pacific Corporation inked the one-year partnership agreement from January to December 2023. Under the agreement, two beach volleyball courts were built at Club Laiya, with 10 of the 18 members of the national men’s and women’s teams to hold camp seven days a week in Batangas. The rest of the national athletes who are still students will be in Laiya on weekends.

Alongside heralding Club Laiya as a beautiful backdrop for active sports at the beach and a venue for sports tourism, the partnership is an opportune time to strengthen the support for Philippine beach volleyball athletes. In the recent Volleyball World Beach Pro Tours Futures, the Philippine team won gold and silver in the women’s competition.

“We gladly and sincerely appreciate this partnership with Club Laiya on the beach volleyball training camp,” PNVF President Ramon “Tats” Suzara said.

“The timing is perfect, now that we achieved a breakthrough on the global beach volleyball stage.”

“It’s our privilege at Landco to support the Philippine national beach volleyball teams in Club Laiya as they undergo rigorous training and are set to make the country proud when they compete in upcoming international tournaments. Alongside our advocacy of enabling the youth to realize their full potential in sports, the practice sessions of the national beach volleyball team at the white sand beach of Club Laiya also help in promoting sports tourism in Batangas,” stated Landco Pacific Corporation President and CEO Erickson Y. Manzano

“We welcome the national beach

volleyball teams as they hold their training camp in Club Laiya where they also enjoy the facilities managed by Millennial Resorts. They are billeted at the unique accommodations of Cocoons and to meet and balance the demands and discipline of their sports, they can cross-train or opt to unwind at the swimming pool of Club Laiya Beach Club and have their hearty meals at Capt. Barbozza restaurant,” said Patrick Gregorio, Senior Tourism and Hospitality consultant for Millennial Resorts Corp. and former Secretary General, Philippine Olympic Committee.

Only two and a half hours from Metro Manila and adjacent to Landco’s Playa Laiya, the sun-kissed 23-hectare Club Laiya is a master-planned and premier resort community. The sprawling property features a mix of private residential lots, buildings, commercial spaces, and tourist hubs. Each provides distinct experiences and opportunities that are part of one unified

of the Philippine National

development of Landco Pacific Corporation.

Club Laiya is a top-notch choice for investors and property owners drawn to the vibrant energy of Laiya beach as a favorite tourist spot for those who love to socialize and engage in an active outdoor lifestyle, with all the conveniences of modern life.

Together with Landco Resort Estates CaSoBe (Calatagan South Beach), Club Laiya is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) registered for the properties’ sustainability program.

At Club Laiya, investors can choose from the Seaside District, offering mix use residential and commercial lots that are closest to Laiya’s powdery white sand beach; the Premier District, the gated

resort and lush forest community with a scenic view of Laiya’s mountains and greenery; the soon to be built Plaza Laiya; and soon to be launched The Spinnaker, the stunning, medium-rise beachfront premium condominium, with terraced levels and luxurious cuts, featuring an exclusive 4th level infinity pool, and positive Miami vibes. Millennial Resorts, the hospitality arm of Landco, operates and manages the leisure and hospitality facilities of Resort Estates Club Laiya: the unconventional accommodations of the Cocoons and Camperisti; Captain Barbozza Restaurant and Bar; and the soon-to-be-built The Isle, a multi-purpose event center.

A paradise for car lovers

THIS was the very first time I went to an automobile show.

Not only was I dazzled by the latest car models but I was also very surprised that car enthusiasts, after all, are not limited to the moneyed elderly male population but also include everyone of all ages, from all walks of life.

Worldbex Services International recently put up the 18th edition of the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) at the World Trade Center for the benefit of the ABS CBN Foundation Inc. I was there on opening day and, while walking

tomotive personality and social media personal-

ity James Deakin, the opening ceremonies also had Joe Ferreria, President of the Automobile Association Philippines, Edgardo Rubiano, Pasay City’s First Gentleman, Anneli Lontoc, Department of Transportation Undersecretary,

Valenzuela Mayor Wesley Gatchalian, and Senator JV Ejercito

In their respective speeches, all of them showed support and acknowledged the importance of MIAS for our country’s transportation sector. With the theme, “Shaping Mobility,” the event highlighted the importance of creating a more connected country through transportation. As a venue for stakeholders to connect with each other, the MIAS further strengthens its position as a must-visit event for car enthusiasts from all over the country and the world.

I don’t really brand myself as a car enthusiast but the beautiful and impressive displays around me won me over. After all, this yearly Manila International Auto Show is the country’s premier and largest automobile expo.

With the program hosted by renowned au-

GLOBE’S wholly-owned corporate venture builder 917Ventures has launched Housify, a revolutionary real estate marketplace that instantly matches property buyers with trusted listings through verified sellers, a seamless inquiry process, and an easy-to-use website.

“We aim to make the property buying experience hassle-free for Filipinos and provide an avenue where buyers can conveniently search for properties that match their preferences and budget. We offer both brokers and buyers a high level of service, and those looking to invest in property will have peace of mind as we are the only Philippine marketplace with a roster of vetted sellers,” said Ina Gervacio, Housify Entrepreneur in Residence, who shared her thoughts about the platform’s mission.

Housify caters to various segments of property buyers, including working millennials looking for condos in central business districts, families searching for their dream homes, and investors

YOUR MONDAY CHUCKLE:

MG and SAIC Motor Philippines President

Phoning his patient, the doctor says: “I have bad news and worse news!

The bad news is that you only have 24 hours left to live.” “That is bad,” said the patient. “What could be worse?” The doctor answers, “I’ve been trying to reach you since yesterday!”

I made it a point to go around the cavernous halls of World Trade Center and marvel at the 2023 car models, the grand showcase of trucks, customized cars, and recreational vehicles that would be perfect to use when going around the many attractive destinations in the country. I also discovered exciting deals on the purchase of the name brands of automobiles.

Zhu Tao; Hyundai President Dongwok Lee; GWM President Rubben Tan; Geely GM Froilan Dytianquin; GAC Motors Brand Head Jun Calayon; Foton AVP Donabel Santos; Ford Philippines President Mike Breen; Cherry President Eroll Duenas; Changan Motors President Maria Fe Perez Agudo; and Mitsubishi Motors President Takeshi Hara I now look forward to next year’s edition of the MIAS because the organizers have promised an even more impressive show, complete with never-before-seen

The attractive Ford Territory 2023 model, with the company’s officers

Everything in the venue lived up to the event’s main come-on – a paradise for car lovers.

Top ranking officers of the participating car brands also graced the occasion: Peugeot

Philippines Brand Head Maricar Parco; Nissan President and Managing Director Juan Manuel Hoyos; Subaru Deputy Chairman Glenn Tan;

accessories and gadgets that car enthusiasts always hanker for. Having seen the hundreds of car lovers who really spent time poring over each and every car display, now I appreciate and understand why they have this motto–“It’s not just a car…it’s someone’s dream!”

New revolutionary real estate marketplace launched

exploring vacant lots in nearby provinces.

What sets the company apart from other real estate marketplaces is its no-duplicate policy, which ensures that listings are served on a firstcome, first-served basis. Within a short span of two months, Housify has successfully partnered with 95 brokerage firms and sellers, adding more than 2,000 verified listings to its database. Ayala Land, Alveo Land, Property Plus, Sui Realty, Presello, and Ledesma Properties are some renowned brokerage firms that have already joined forces with Housify.

Housify is committed to expanding its reach and is actively seeking to partner with more brokerage firms in the coming months to further scale its operations. To find the perfect property on Housify, users may browse the platform’s listings on www. houseify.ph/properties and use the filter function to streamline preferences. Once the property is selected, users can fill out their basic information

such as name, email address, and contact number, and wait for the in-house specialist to contact them within 24-48 hours.

Housify also provides a cost-effective solution for brokers and property sellers as they can list their properties for free without any upfront cost. They will only be charged once they avail of marketing services and generate a minimum of three leads per month.

Housify is currently offering free property listing postings until April 30. Those who want to take advantage of the platform’s services may fill out their details at https://bitly/ HousifySellerPromo.

For inquiries about partnerships with the platform, interested parties may email partnerships@housify.ph

For more information on Housify and its services, visit www.housify.ph/properties, send a message on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ HousifyPhilippines, or email info@housesify.ph

Members

Volleyball team set up their training camp at Landco Resort Estate Club Laiya

The Philippine National Men's Volleyball team holds regular practice sessions at the white beach of Landco Resort Estate Club Laiya in Batangas

The impressive Peugeot 2023 Model E-2008 SUV, presented by the company’s executives

The booth of the Automobile Association Philippines displays the vehicle that will be raffled off to its members in their forthcoming General Membership Meeting