Manila Standard - 2023 May 1 - Monday

Farmers: Rice, veggie prices to spike

Meanwhile, the government has stepped up efforts to convert the country’s dependence on water supply from underground

to surface water, President Ferdinand Marcos

PH eyes more pacts with US

US rips ‘unsafe’ China ships

But PBBM to seek review of MDT, VFA, climate change programs

By Vince Lopez

Ramps up rhetoric after WPS near-crash ahead of PBBM Washington trip

By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Rio N. Araja

THE United States called on China

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday said his government will seek a review of the treaty agreements signed between the Philippines and its long-time ally, the United States, while seeking more partnerships and enhance current deals on climate change mitigation and adaptation.

WEEKEND FUN. Children blow bubbles and romp during a fun Sports

Day in Malacañang to the amusement of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (center, inset) and other guests. The event was offered by First Lady Liza-Araneta Marcos and hosted by Basketball Hall of Famer Yao Ming and boxing legend and ex-senator Manny Pacquiao (left and right, inset), with Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian (beside

Saturday to stop "provocative and unsafe conduct" in the disputed South China Sea after a recent near-collision with a Philippine Coast Guard boat there, ramping up rhetoric ahead of a visit by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to the White House.

In an interview with broadcaster and former Social Welfare secretary Erwin Tulfo, the President said he would like to see agreements on climate change.

Mr. Marcos said Manila and Washington will discuss commitments to the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT), a 70-year-old accord between the two allies. “We have to evolve it. It has to evolve,” the President said, noting the changes in the situation in the South China Sea, events in Taiwan and in North Korea. “The situation is heating up a bit,” he said.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller, in a statement two days before President Joe Biden is to host President Marcos, said the incident was a reminder of China's "harassment and intimidation" of Philippine vessels in the contested waterway.

Mr. Marcos said the MDT and the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) will be among the topics that he will take up with US President Joe Biden during his official working visit to Washington starting May 1.

The Philippines earlier this year identified Camilo Osias Naval Base in Santa Ana, Cagayan; Lal-lo Airport in Lal-lo, Cagayan; Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela; and Balabac Is-

"We call upon Beijing to desist from its provocative and unsafe conduct," he said, adding that any attack on Philippine armed forces would trigger a US response (see related story on A1 -- Editors). Biden has been working to bolster relations with Asian allies as theUSChinese relationship remains in a historically deep chill, and the Philippines' proximity to key sea lanes and Taiwan gives it particular strategic importance.

The near-miss Sunday off the Spratly

President ‘carefully studying’ school break return to April-May

By

back the school vacation to March instead of having it from June to July.

schools are already implementing faceto-face classes,” he said.

‘Meet with Biden to advance PH interests’

“We are carefully studying that because a lot of people are suggesting it since the lockdown is over and most

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. left Manila on Sunday for an official visit to the United States as he seeks to bolster ties with Washington amid growing tensions with China in the disputed South China Sea.

The President’s visit comes as the United States had called on Beijing to stop "provocative and unsafe conduct" in the disputed waterway after a recent near-collision with a Philippine Coast Guard vessel.

Ahead of Mr. Marcos's visit, US

By Rio N. Araja

Gasoline leads pump price rollback at P1.40/liter

By Alena Mae S. Flores

The current academic break is scheduled from July to August, given the

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller slammed China over the near collision of one of its coast guard ships with a Philippine patrol boat a week ago, saying it was a reminder of Beijing's "harassment and intimidation" in the contested waterway.

"We call upon Beijing to desist from its provocative and unsafe conduct," Miller said in a statement, adding that any attack on Philippine armed forces would trigger a US response.

Mr. Marcos begins his four-day trip

By Charles Dantes and Macon Ramos-Araneta

ex-cop to attend shabu haul probe

By Maricel V. Cruz

with a meeting with US President Joe Biden on Monday at the White House, which the Philippine leader described as "essential to advancing our national interest and strengthening that very important alliance."

"We will reaffirm our commitment to fostering our longstanding alliance as an instrument of peace and as a catalyst of development in the Asia Pacific region," Mr. Marcos said in a departure statement. His plane took off at around 1:43 p.m.

THE House of Representatives Committee on Dangerous Drugs expects former police master sergeant Rodolfo Mayo Jr. to attend its congressional inquiry Wednesday on the controversial drug bust involving 990 kilos or P6.7 billion worth of “shabu” last year. Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, panel chairman, made the statement as nearly 50 national police officials are involved in the incident, which had been tainted by an alleged cover-up.

“Actually, we invited all of them... all those who were involved and suspended by Sec. [Benjamin] Abalos,” Barbers said in an interview.

“We invited all of them; all those involved in the issue, including...Sergeant Mayo. Maybe, if sergeant Mayo will be allowed to attend via Zoom,

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on April 30, 2023, also reinforces and protects the freedom of association and right to organize of workers.

By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Rio N. Araja

THE country’s oil firms cut pump prices across all products effective 6 a.m. Tuesday with gasoline leading the price cut of P1.40 per liter.

“Effective 12:01am Apr. 25, 2023, Caltex (Chevron Philippines, Inc.) will decrease fuel prices of Platinum and Silver by P1.40 per liter, diesel by P0.70 per liter and kerosene by P0.20 per liter,” Caltex said in its advisory.

Christopher "Bong" Go said he supports the idea of adopting modular learning if necessary, amid extremely hot weather and power outages in some parts of the country.

The oil firms announced a price cut of P1.40 per liter for gasoline, P0.70 per liter for diesel, and P0.20 per liter for kerosene to reflect the movement of prices in the world oil market.

LAWMAKERS on Sunday renewed their call for the government to change the school days or adopt more distance learning methods to keep school-age children from being exposed to heat stress, especially with the looming dry El Nino weather phenomenon.

For the safety of students, Sen.

The price rollback is within the forecast announced by an oil industry source over the weekend.

The source said gasoline prices may be rolled back by P1.35 to P1.55 per liter

The government must also move quickly in reverting to the pre-COVID-19 pandemic school calendar to safeguard both children and teachers against potential heat stress during the summer

MINDANAO could be the hardest hit by the looming El Niño episode due to high water loss in the region, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration on Saturday.

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has approved an executive order creating an inter-agency committee to strengthen the coordination and facilitate the resolution of labor cases.

Ahead of the observance of Labor Day today, President Marcos told Filipino workers on Sunday not to lose courage, diligence, and hope despite the challenges in life.

and diesel by P0.55 to P0.65 per liter.

Executive Order No. 23, signed by

Ana Liza Solis, Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section chief, said based on historical data, Mindanao is losing over 35 percent of rainwater amid dry spells and drought due to El Niño. The phenomenon is forecast to persist until 2024.

The Department of Energy confirmed on Friday the possible price cut by Tuesday, based on the four-day monitoring for the international oil market.

DOE director for Oil Industry Management Bureau Rodela Romero said oil prices declined due to “the monetary policy of US of further interest rates that could slow growth and curb oil

“Based on studies, around 12 percent is lost in the Luzon area so that is depending on the timing. Around 21 percent (is lost) in the Visayas area. The

DFA: Pinoys’ evacuation from Sudan begins today

Under 100 Pinoys opt to stay in Sudan for family, work

By Rey E. Requejo and Macon Ramos-Araneta

GOVERNMENT plans to begin its evacuation of more Filipinos from strife-torn Sudan “within 24 hours,” the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Monday.

Three Filipinos were safely evacuated from the northeast African coun-

try and have already arrived in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, DFA Undersecretary Eduardo Jose de Vega said in a television interview.

The number of Filipinos requesting repatriation has reached 156 as the armed conflict between the Sudanese military

and a paramilitary group continues, the Foreign Affairs executive added.

“Our embassy there said over 500 Filipinos sent them a message. Out of the 500 plus, 156 are ready to go home at any moment,” de Vega said.

Vito Barcelo weather, President Ferdinand Marcos

The President made the statement in an interview with broadcaster Erwin Tulfo, who asked if the government would bring

WIDOW AND SUSPECTS. Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo (in black), wife of slain Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo, and two of the four suspects in his assassination enter the Department of Justice compound in Manila on Monday to attend the preliminary investigation for the murder case (see related story on A5). Norman Cruz

PNP’S PAST AND PRESENT. Benjamin Acorda Jr., as they salute the flag in turnover ceremonies Monday at Camp Crame.

Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (left) was among the officials present for the event.

Yao) also present. PCO Photos

4 missing as dive boat sinks off reef

By Charles Dantes

RESCUERS were searching for four people Sunday after a boat carrying more than a dozen scuba divers sank at a World Heritage-listed marine sanctuary in the Philippines, authorities said.

The Philippine Coast Guard said 28 people were rescued after "Dream Keeper" went down on Sunday morning in the pristine waters at Tubbataha Reef off the western province of Palawan. Four Chinese nationals were among those on board the dive boat.

US...

From A1

Islands was the latest in a long string of maritime incidents between China and the Philippines.

Beijing claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, ignoring an international ruling that the assertion has no legal basis and finding for the Philippines in its territorial dispute with China.

The Agence France-Presse was one of several media outlets that witnessed the incident after journalists were invited to join two Philippine Coast Guard boats on a six-day patrol of the waters, visiting a dozen islands and reefs.

The Philippine vessels approached Second Thomas Shoal, known in the Philippines as Ayungin and in China as Ren'ai Jiao, in the Spratly archipelago.

As one boat, the BRP Malapascua, which was carrying Filipinojournalists, neared the shoal, a Chinese Coast Guard vessel more than twice its size sailed into its path.

AFP journalists watched the incident from the other Philippine Coast Guard boat, which was less than a kilometer away.

The Malapascua's commanding officer said the Chinese ship came within 45 meters of his boat and only his quick actions avoided the steel-hulled vessels crashing into each other.

The Chinese foreign ministry said Friday that the Philippine boats had"intruded" without China's permission and called it a "premeditated and provocative action."

But Manila hit back, saying that "routine patrols in our own waters can be neither premeditated nor provocative" and insisting they will continue to conduct the patrols.

‘Meet...

From A1

in Manila, according to the Presidential Communications Office.

In his departure speech at the Villamor Airbase, the President said his visit to the US would reinforce Manila and Washington's "already strong bonds" by "bringing our alliance into the 21st century."

President Marcos said his visit builds on the "active exchanges" between the two countries, which include the chief executive's meetingwith US President

Ahead...

From A1

The President acknowledged the hardships confronting the workers, such as unemployment, rising price of commodities, and having no access togovernment benefits.

But he promised that his administration would give priority to the protection of workers.

The EO noted concerns of various groups on the Philippines’ implementation of ILO (International Labor Organization) Convention No. 87, “in view of reported incidents of acts of violence, extra-judicial killings, harassment, suppression of trade union rights and red-tagging allegedly perpetrated by state agents, targeting in particular, certain trade unions and workers’ organizations.”

“At the 108th session of the International Labor Conference (ILC) in June 2019, a high-level tripartite mission (HLTM) was created to inquire into the aforementioned reported incidents in the purpose of assisting the Philippine government in taking immediate and effective action on the following specific areas: (i) measures to preventviolence in relation to the exercise of legitimate activities by workers’ organizations;

Under...

From A1

The only way for us to know where they are, would be if they communicate with our honorary consulate and, of course, with the Embassy in Cairo,” Cortes said.

“This is the way for us to know if they have money, how they are, if they are injured, or if they want to evacuate. If and when they decide to really evacuate or if

The owner of the vessel, a dive master and two guests were still missing, coast guard spokesman Rear Admiral Armando Balilo said. A coast guard vessel and about 10 dive boats were searching the waters.

"It's full of diving enthusiasts now and

The near-miss came just a day after Marcos hosted Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang for talks in Manila aimed at defusing tensions in the waterway.

Marcos has insisted he will not let China trample on the Philippines' rights in the sea and has gravitated toward the United States as he seeks to strengthen defense ties. This was in stark contrast to his predecessor, President Rodrigo Duterte, who appeased the Chinese and shunned the Americans.

Early this month, the Philippines identified four additional military bases —in addition to five existing sites— to which US forces will have access, including one near the Spratly Islands. The two countries also carried out their biggest-ever military maneuvers in recent weeks.

This shift has alarmed China, which has accused Washington of trying to drive a wedge between Beijing and Manila.

US-Philippine ties were badly frayed under Marcos's predecessor, Duterte.

Marcos has sought to allay public fears that the reviving alliance with the US could bring the Philippines into the conflict if China were to invade Taiwan.

He has said that with Biden he will discuss the "need to tone down the rhetoric" over the South China Sea, Taiwan, and North Korea.

White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre said earlier in the month that Biden intended, in the meeting with Marcos, to "reaffirm the United States’ ironclad commitment to the defense of the Philippines."

On Sunday, Ambassador to Washington Jose Manuel Romualdez said complications arising from a possible China-US conflict cannot be avoided.

“The implications to the Philippines of the China-US dispute over Taiwan are unavoidable if something happens, even if we say we are not directly involved,

Joseph Biden in New York last September, the visit to Manila of US Vice President Kamala Harris in November, as well as the numerous visits by senior officials on both sides.

Manila and Washington are also expected to bolster partnerships in the semiconductor industry, critical minerals, renewable and clean energy, including nuclear, and infrastructure projects "that will improve ourdigital and telecommunication systems and facilitate sustainability efforts to address climate change," President said.

The President is also expected to meet with American business leaders to

“(ii) investigation of allegations of violence against members of workers’ organizations with a view of establishing the facts, determining culpability and punishing the perpetrators; (iii) operationalization of monitoring bodies; and (iv) measures to ensure that all workers, without distinction, are able to form and join organizations of their choosing, in accordance to ILO Convention No. 87,” the EO added.

The EO said the Inter-Agency Committee for the Protection of theFreedom of Association and Right to Organize of Workers will bechaired by the executive secretary while the secretary of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) will be its vice chair.

The members of the Inter-Agency panel will be the Department of Justice, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of National Defense, Department of Trade and Industry, National Security Council and the Philippine National Police.

“When necessary, the InterAgency Committee may request the attendanceor participation of other relevant agencies, such as the Civil Service Commission and the Commission of Human Rights,” the EO said. With Vince Lopez (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

their employers will evacuate... at least we know where they are,” he added.

The first batch of evacuees from Sudan consisted of 17 Filipinos arrived in Manila on Saturday.

There were also 340 Filipinos who had made it to Egypt after escaping from the violence in Sudan, according to the DFA on Saturday.

There were also 100 more Filipinos who have yet to travel from Khartoum to the border, while 14 others were waiting

it's on their bucket list.

It's a dream dive," said Balilo, referring to Tubbataha.

The 97,000-hectare (240,000-acre) Tubbataha Reef is one of the country's largest marine protected areas and was listed as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations in 1993.

Despite its protected status, the marine sanctuary is under constant threat from illegal fishing and poaching, according to authorities.

The PCG immediately launched a search and rescue effort after receiving information at 6:49 a.m. from their Command Center in Palawan for the

and it will also affect the entire ASEAN region,” Romualdez said in Filipino in an interview on radio dzBB.

“We can't avoid getting dragged into it somehow. That's what we are discussing with our friends in the ASEAN. They know the importance of the China-US tension not erupting into serious conflict,” he added.

In the case of the Philippines, Romualdez said, the country is only strengthening its defense.

Romualdez said the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will be ready to defend the country with full force against threats in the next three to five years with the assistance being provided by the United States.

Filipino soldiers are now better trained and better equipped than before, he said, in the wake of the recently concluded 2023 BalikatanExercise between the armed forces of the Philippines and the US.

“I think, and many also think about it here in America, that within the next three to five years, our Armed Forces will be better. They [will be] ready to defend our country with full force.”

This year’s Balikatan was the biggest iteration of the joint military exercises, with more than 17,600 participants, including 12,200 US troops and 5,400 Philippine soldiers.

Meanwhile, Senator Jinggoy Estrada, who heads the Senate defensecommittee, said the Philippines must work with regional allies andform an alliance with them to deal with Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea.

Estrada said Chinese bullying such as the latest near-collision has happened over a hundred times.

"We file diplomatic protests. We have filed hundreds of diplomatic protests, but nothing has happened," Estrada said.

Senator JV Ejercito also lamented

further promote trade and investment opportunities in the Philippines. In these roundtable meetings, President Marcos will be joined by his economic team as well as key Filipino private sector leaders to explore business opportunities that seek to grow the economy even more. While in Washington, the President will also meet the Filipino community "who continue to contribute towards the country's economic prosperity." House of Representatives Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan on Sunday wished the President “all the success” on his five-day official visit to the United States.

Lawmakers...

From A1 months, 4Ps party-list Rep. Marcelino Libanan said.

“We are all for the immediate return to the old school calendar with the least possible disruption to classes,” he said. “Many childrenfrom poor households, including 4Ps beneficiaries in the provinces, tend to walk long distances to or from school.”

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier said the government wasstudying the return to the pre-pandemic school calendar when vacation time starts from March to April and classes resume in June, due to the “unbearable” summer heat, making learning difficult.

As temperatures rise and power outages become a recurring issue in some parts of the country, Go believes modular learning is a way to keep students safe.

The senator stressed the importance of prioritizing the safety and health of students, especially during extreme weather conditions.

"What is important, is that the studies of students will continue, and the school year will not be delayed. That should be our priority, the health and safety of our students," he said. Go said that in extreme heat conditions, “face-to-face learning can be stopped, and we can shift back to online or modular learning."

With temperatures soaring, there are

to cross the border into Egypt, she added. DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega earlier said there could be around 700 Filipinos in Sudan, most of them undocumented.

In related developments:

--Sen. Grace Poe expressed hope that support systems are in place to assist returning Filipinos from Sudan. She said Filipino displaced workers from Sudan should find alternative jobs or livelihood in the Philippines or undergo

sunken yacht. In a report by the Coast Guard, the yacht departed San Remegio, Cebu City on late afternoon last April 27 and arrived at Tubbataha Reef at around 10 PM on April 29.

PCG dispatched BRP Melchora to aid the divers in conducting SAR operations.

Coast Guard Sub-Station Tubbataha also sent other dive boats to the area to expand the search and rescue operations.

As of press time, the joint SAR team from different agencies, units, and organizations said that 28 people have been rescued, while four remain missing. With AFP (See full story online at manilastandard.net

China’s bullying tactics, despite their insistence that they are an “ally and a friend” to the Philippines.

He acknowledged that the Philippines cannot match China militarily, “so they are really bullying us and slowly taking over our territory.”

Estrada said this was why the country must form an alliance with “rightthinking nations” -- countries who are allies and who are also being bullied, like Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam.

This alliance can then work with Australia and the United States, he said.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, a member of the Senate defense panel, also called on the Philippines to "actively and boldly" pursue larger alliances.

A broader alliance is a better alliance, she said.

"Let us urgently work on building this bigger coalition of countries who are against China’s misbehavior, who uphold our victory at The Hague, and who want to preserve peace and stability in the region,” she said.

"We must also seriously look into reviewing our national policy towards China," she further stated.

In the House, Batangas Rep. Ralph Recto said China’s acts of aggression in the West Philippine Sea must be met with indignation atevery turn because not doing so would play into Beijing’s game plan that the Philippines would eventually tire out from protesting.

“Even if we have to wallpaper the Great Wall with diplomatic protests, we should continue because once we show any sign of wavering, it normalizes China’s misbehavior inside our territory,” he said.

“Even if they are deaf, we have to blow our whistle again and again.

At least, the whole world would hear,” he added. With AFP and Vince Lopez

“We are all counting on the President’s trip to pave the way for additional American direct investment inflows that we need to support our economic recovery and generate new employment,” Libanan said.

“If we look at the latest surveys, the creation of new jobs remains among the top concerns of Filipinos,” Libanan said.

At present, American multinational corporations in the Philippines are invested mostly in manufacturing, wholesale trade, and professional,scientific, and technical services, including highly labor-intensive business process outsourcing (BPO) activities. AFP with Vince Lopez and Rio N. Araja

growing concerns about the safety of students who may be forced to attend faceto-face classes in extreme heat or during power outages.

The Department of Education has reminded school heads that they have the authority to suspend face-to-face classes and shift to alternativedelivery modes such as modular distance learning due to these concerns.

On April 20, the DepEd issued a memorandum stating that schools can utilize modular distance learning, as outlined in DepEd Order No. 37, released in 2022.

The order empowers school heads to assess if unfavorable circumstances, such as extreme heat or power outages, maysignificantly impact in-person classroom learning and jeopardize the health and safety of students.

Go said he understands these concerns and believes that modularlearning is a viable solution to ensure that students can continue to learn without risking their health and safety.

An advocate for the well-being of students, the senator emphasized the importance of mental health in addressing mental health disorders, which are often overlooked and undetected.

Go has also been pushing for the passage of his proposed Senate Bill No. 1786, which seeks to mandate public higher education institutions to establish Mental Health Offices on their respective campuses. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

skills retooling or training if they wish to.

While jobs are important, she emphasized there's no replacement for life and safety.

She commended the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Migrant Workers for acting quickly and working tirelessly in facilitating the passage of our OFWs to secure borders on their way home. With a report from Agence France-Presse (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Supreme Court goes on recess to pen decisions

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Supreme Court goes on a five-week recess starting tomorrow, May 2, to allow its magistrates to concentrate on decision writing on pending cases.

While on recess until June 9, the 15-member bench will not conduct sessions in its divisions and in the full court unless a very urgent case that needs swift action is filed within the period.

If an urgent case is filed, Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo will call the holding of a special session either in the division or full court.

It can be recalled that upon assumption into office in April 2021, Gesmundo assured the expeditious resolution of cases pending with the SC.

Since then, the SC has been coming out with decisions on cases which had stayed unresolved for the past six or eight years. The SC had just concluded its summer sessions that started last April 11 in Baguio City.

One of the petitions tackled during the summer sessions was the challenge on the alleged unconstitutionality of the SIM (subscriber identity module) registration under Republic Act No. 11934. It did not issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) on the petition. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Salceda pushes ‘flow back’ tack for agri tariffs

ALBAY Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda is calling for the passage of a universal flow back mechanism for tariff revenues from agricultural imports to be channeled toward programs for their counterpart domestic agricultural sector.

He said developing the domestic sector "is always better than simply protecting them without support.”

Salceda issued the statement before the General Membership Meeting of the United Broiler Raisers Association (UBRA), one of the largest poultrysector organizations in the country, in a meeting on April 26.

“The tariffs from imports of agricultural products should go towards developing their domestic counterparts. So, revenues from imported pork should go to the domestic swine industry. Revenues from imported dressed chicken should go towards the broiler sector. That way, we can keep consumer prices low without throwing farmers under the bus,” he said.

Salceda cited the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund, saying it has helped farmers achieve record high yields while keeping rice prices under control “in an otherwise high food inflation situation.” Rio N. Araja (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

El NIño...

From A1 rainwater reduction in Mindanao is much bigger,” Solis said.

“Mindanao is much affected since this is the so-called evenly distributed rainfall throughout the year. Considering there could be short dry season, usually (Mindanao) is the (region) badly affected when there is El Niño," she added.

Cebu and Bohol provinces in the Visayas are usually the hardest hit by the dry spell and drought during the El Niño phenomenon, she said.

Chances of the weather phenomenon developing in the country is still high at "more than 70 percent," and that it could happen in two months, the Pagasa official said.

On the other hand, Marcelino Villafuerte, Impact Assessment head under the Climatology and Agrometeorology Division, earlier said PAGASA may issue an El Niño alert by next month.

El Niño will begin by the third quarter of 2023 or between July and September, and will last until next year, the weather bureau said.

Meanwhile, yesterday’s heat index at 2 p.m. in Metro Manila was 43 degrees Celsius.

The weather bureau also warned of possible flash floods and landslides in parts of the Philippines due to scattered thunderstorms.

In its 24-hour weather forecast, PAGASA said an Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is currently affecting Mindanao and Palawan.

The ITCZ is expected to bring cloudy skies with scattered rainshowers and thunderstorms in Eastern Visayas, Mindanao and Palawan.

Metro Manila and the rest of the country, on the other hand, may also experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms caused by easterlies.

‘Noneed to panic amid COVID spike‘

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

RPMD releases review, rating of district reps

THE RP-Mission and Development Foundation Inc. (RPMD) has released a job performance review and rating of district representatives nationwide.

The independent and non-commissioned “Boses ng Bayan” nationwide survey has unveiled the topperforming district Representatives in the Philippines. Sandro Marcos (95.8%), Kristine Singson (95.6%), Duke Frasco (95.6%), Pablo John Garcia (95.2%), and Chiquiting Sagarbarria (95.1%) are jointly positioned at the pinnacle as the bestperforming district representatives in the Philippines.

The survey considered the representatives’ contributions to their respective districts and underscored their outstanding performance.

The assessment of job performance for district representatives serves as a vital cog in the machinery of good governance in the Philippines.

PUBLIC

Health Expert Dr. Anthony Leachon said the public need not be alarmed by the reported increase in the positivity rate of COVID-19 infections and advised the continued use of face masks.

“We should not worry. Despite our positivity rate (14.3%) which is more than the benchmark of the World Health Organization (WHO), the symptoms are mild and the hospitalization utilization rate is just 22%,” Leachon said.

Leachon, the former consultant of the National Task Force on COVID-19 under the Duterte administration, cited

that the occupancy rate in hospitals is still considered “low risk.”

However, he reminded the public to continue adhering to the minimum public health standards such as wearing face masks and practicing physical distancing.

“They should retain the use of the face mask, but do not limit indoor capacity because that will hurt the econo -

NCR public market, street vendors back Angkas ride safety initiatives

MOTORCYCLE ride-hailing company Angkas said its safety record has reached new heights as public market and street vendors all over Manila are now seen wearing Angkas shirts bearing the company’s catchy slogans.

The company said the shirts read, “99.997% Safe” and “Angkas Safety Record is Known to be Better Than Condoms,” highlighting the company’s unwavering commitment to safety.

Angkas has been a popular choice for commuters in Manila since its launch in 2016, and it has been consistently recognized for its safety standards.

The company has implemented various safety protocols to ensure the safety of both the riders and the passengers. These include regular bike maintenance, mandatory safety gear, and stringent background checks for all its riders.

The vendors in areas like Baclaran along Roxas Boulevard, Buendia Jac Liner along EDSA Taft, Boni EDSA,

Guadalupe along EDSA, Guadalupe public market, Pasay Rotonda, GMA Kamuning Station, and Kamuning Public Market have shown their support for Angkas by wearing the company’s shirts with pride. Even the sari-sari stores in these areas bear the branding of Angkas all over Manila, showing widespread support for the company’s safety initiatives.

Angkas CEO George Royeca expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support of the vendors and the people of Manila. “We are thrilled to see our safety record being acknowledged and appreciated by the public. Safety has always been our top priority, and we are committed to providing safe and reliable transportation services to all our passengers. We thank the vendors for their support and encourage everyone to prioritize safety above everything else.”

my,” Leachon said. He also said should always watch out for COVID-19 symptoms so that those with comorbidities can be protected.

Leachon said aside from flu-like symptoms, the COVID-19 Omicron subvariant XBB.1.16 or “Arcturus” causes “pink eye” or sore eyes, which was identified as one of the new symptoms associated with the COVID-19 virus subvariant. He said Arcturus has been declared a “variant of interest” and not a “variant of concern.” Leachon also believes there is still no reason for the government to elevate the country’s status to COVID-19 Alert Level 2.

Still, he said that the use of face masks remains a tool to protect the public from the virus.

He said he also supports the request of the private sector for boosters shots to be commercialized to avoid wastage.

Leachon added that He also said the League of Governors can ask the Department of Health (DOH) for the vaccines to be deployed to tourism areas.

The number of cases of COVID-19 remained the highest in Metro Manila, but hospitalization remains low. Independent research firm OCTA Research said the percentage of people confirmed to have COVID-19 increased to 14.3% on Thursday from 9 percent a week ago.

This evaluation process fosters transparency and accountability, inspiring innovation and excellence among elected officials, the RPMD said.

“The performance assessment consists of three pivotal parameters: district representation, legislative performance, and constituent service. These elements weave a rich tapestry of a district representative’s impact on their constituents, the legislative landscape, and the nation’s progress,” Dr. Paul Martinez, executive director of RPMD, said.

The ranking is based on a scoring system that evaluates the representatives’ district representation, legislative performance, and constituent service.

Mayor Joy reminds QC food biz of 20% discount for single parents

By Rio N. Araja

QUEZON City Mayor Joy Belmonte on Sunday reminded restaurants to strictly implement an ordinance granting a 20-percent discount to registered solo parents on the first and last Sunday of every month.

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SEN. Cynthia Villar said the legislations she filed in Congress are geared to improve farmers’ earnings and standard of living.

She noted that farmers still face challenges that need government intervention to move forward,

“That is why I made it my goal to uplift the lives of Filipino farmers in every legislation I write,” Villar, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Food and Agriculture, said.

Villar was the guest speaker during the 29th Hog Convention and Trade Exhibits with the theme: “The Future of Pork Production: Efficient. Productive. Sustainable.”

The event held at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City was sponsored by the National Federation of Hog Farmers Inc. and the Pork Producers Federation of the Phils. Inc.

In her speech, Villar related that during the previous years, she had written bills that were passed into law. She said these bills are now benefiting farmers.

She related that among her priority legislations this 19th Congress is the “Livestock, Poultry and Dairy Development and Competitiveness Act of 2022.”

As the city commemorates the 1st National Solo Parents Week and the 10th QC Solo Parents Week, she said

Ordinance SP No. 2766 of 2018 is already being fully implemented, and that single parents can avail of it.

“The measure gives a 20-percent discount every first and last Sunday.

We have the implementing rules and regulations submitted to the Business Permits and Licensing Department (BPLD). The guidelines have already been cascaded to all business establish-

ments,” she said.

Belmonte directed the BPLD to remind business establishments to fully implement the ordinance.

A single parent must present a valid solo parent identification card issued by the city’s Social Services Development Department to be able to avail of the 20-percent discount.

Belmonte also assured solo parents of

the city government’s full support, saying her administration has lined up several programs and projects for their welfare while waiting for the full implementation of the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act.

“We have the Pangkabuhayang QC. Solo parents are covered,” she said, adding a P20,000 cash aid is available to those who want to start their own business,” she noted.

Issue guidelines on VAT rules, solon presses BIR

By Rio N. Araja

ALBAY Rep. Joey Salceda on Sunday called on the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to issue the necessary rules and regulations to implement resolutions to value-added tax-related events concerns of registered business enterprises immediately as “these matters have already been exhaustively discussed both on their end in the Executive and on our end in Congress.”

FILIPINO journalist who has patented a utility model for a clean energy conversion system has appealed to the sectors of academics and traditional technology to work together for the conduct of more research and development (R&D) studies on worthy utility projects and industry products.

Nash

Maulana

up with President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. are innovative products that are still not in the platform of the conventional market because they are hardly backed by R&D studies.

Maulana said there is a “wide gap” in what is supposed to be a “collaborative working relationship” between academics and workers in the traditional technology sector.

“I urge Commissioner Romeo Lumagui to issue the rules and regulations on the clearer and smaller negative list on VAT zero-rating for registered exporters, the rules on simplified VAT refunds and the application of the transitory period for the 5 percent gross income earned (GIE) for domestic enterprises without delay,” he said.

“Last Tuesday, we reiterated this in the committee on ways and means, during our regular hearing. Secretary Benjamin Diokno already issued the directive this week to the BIR. At least on the zero-rating. So we expect at least that one by next week. No more issues left to study or discuss there,” he added.

GAWAD AGILA AWARD. Education Undersecretary Epimaco Densing III (center) receives the first Gawad Agila Award from Okada Elite Eagle Club President Jensen Turica (right) during the Outstanding Men in Public Service and Good  Governance Awards night held at the Grand Ballroom of Okada Manila in Pasay City on April 29. Joseph Muego

FAIR. Job Seekers flock to SMX Mall of Asia in

Danny Pata

AID FOR WORKERS. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. opens a ‘Kadiwa ng Pangulo Para Sa Manggagawa’ outlet with at least 150 businesses and sellers from participating agencies such as the Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Agriculture and Department of Social Welfare and Development ahead of today’s 121st Labor Day commemoration at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on Sunday, April 30, 2023.

Maynilad lifeline clients get rebate

By Othel V. Campos

MAYNILAD Water Systems is giving a rebate to some 167,500 “lifeline” accounts in the southern part of the West Concession who were severely affected by water service interruptions on their May 2023 bill.

“Lifeline” customers are those who consume less than 10 cubic meters (cu.m.) per month.

The rebate will be equivalent to the

‘Effective efforts led to Speaker’s higher trust rate’

By Rio N. Araja

ALBAY Rep. Joey Salceda on Sunday credited the double-digit jump in the trust ratings of Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez in the Tugon ng Masa Q1 2023 survey of Octa Research to Congress’ “obvious and effective efforts to be responsive to what affects the lives of working Filipinos.”

He said Romualdez “has shown the House to be a more dynamic partner of the Executive in getting things done.”

“We’ve been a dynamic partner, in the sense that we tackle more priority legislation faster, and we practice our oversight functions more often and with greater intent. That means we partner with the executive in crafting better rules and regulations to existing legislation, and we work to implement programs better,” he said.

“Our hearings are also not grandstanding for the media. We produce results,” he added.

He mentioned the House of Representatives’ work to lower food prices through hearings with the Department of Agriculture and economic agencies to produce better rules and enforcement and fight cartels.

“Onion prices are down from a high of P700 per kilo to just around P125175. At one point, farmgate went down to the P50 level. We caught the cartels and had them detained in the House,” he said.

7 NPA rebels killed in clash in Northern Samar

By Ronald O. Reyes

TACLOBAN City—At least seven suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in an early morning clash with government troops in the mountainous area of Barangay Santander, Bobon, Northern Samar on Sunday, April 30, 2023.

Army Maj. Gen. Camilo Ligayo, commander of 8th Infantry Division based in Catbalogan City, said that the success of the operation “was made possible through the recent efforts to clear the barangays [where NPAs move around] which hindered the communist rebels [from getting] logistical and operational support.”

“Last year, we were able to clear the areas where member of the NPA Front Committee 2 operate. That prompted their dismantling, and with the help of our local chief executives, our residents in Northern Samar understood their responsibility in resolving the insurgency problem,” Ligayo said.

cost of the unused portion of the lifeline customers’ 10 cu.m. minimum consumption for the month of March 2023.

This means that if these customers

only consumed 1 cu.m. in March but had to pay the P136 minimum charge for 10 cu.m., they will be entitled to a rebate of 9 cu.m., or P121.98. The rebate amount will vary depending on the customers’ actual March 2023 consumption below 10 cu.m.

“Lifeline” accounts located residing in Pasay, parts of Makati, Parañaque, Muntinlupa, Las Piñas, and Cavite are eligible for rebate.

Maynilad is giving the rebate in

consideration of “lifeline” customers who were constrained to pay a minimum charge though they were not able to consume a full 10 cu.m. given the service interruptions affecting their area.

The total rebate to be given amounts to P10.81 million.

The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System – Regulatory Office (MWSS RO) said it supports the rebate program of Maynilad.

Japan fetes 4 Pinoys, including ex-DND, DFA chiefs

TOKYO announced the conferment of Japanese decorations on four Filipinos, including former Defense chief Delfin Lorenzana and former Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo, for helping strengthen Philippine-Japan relations.

In a statement, the Japanese Embassy in Manila said the four will receive the following decoration:

- Alberto G. Romulo, Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun;

- Delfin N. Lorenzana, The Order of

the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star;

- Gamaliel A. Cordoba, The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon; and

- Dr. Cynthia Neri Zayas, The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette. “The government of Japan warmly congratulates these four outstanding Filipinos and appreciates their significant contributions to forging stronger ties between Japan and the Philippines,” the Embassy said.

PAO chief asks Supreme Court to amend Canon III

By Rio N. Araja

PUBLIC Attorney’s Office chief Persida Acosta is appealing to the Supreme Court to remove a provision in the newly approved New Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability or Canon III due to conflict of interest.

Along with eight other senior officials, Acosta, in a 22-page letter, “humbly and respectfully” urged

Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo

to omit Section 22, Canon III of the New Code stating that “the current client’s written informed consent to the conflict-of-interest representation is no longer necessary.”

PAO maintained that there is conflict of interest when a public defender would represent the accused and another public defender on behalf of the complainant in one and the same case.

“With due respect and without any intention of challenging the authority and prerogatives of this Honorable Court in setting standards of conduct for all members of the legal profession, but only for the purpose of ensuring constitutional guarantees, we most humbly submit that the subject provision in the New Code violates the 1987 Constitution, viz: equal protection of the law,” the April 20 letter read.

SM malls head Olongapo’s top business taxpayers

By Butch Gunio

THE Business Permit and Licensing

Office (BPLO) in Olongapo City has cited the top 20 most outstanding business taxpayers of 2021 and 2022.

Representatives of SM City Olongapo Central and SM City Olongapo Downtown accepted the plaques of appreciation from Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino, Jr. for making it once again to the list of top business taxpayers.

Since 2013, SM Olongapo has been consistently leading the taxpayers list, making it a remarkable benefactor for sustaining, maintaining, and improving the public services provided by the government to its citizens.

Romulo served as the Secretary of Foreign Affairs from 2004 to 2011.

On the 50th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines, he contributed to the formulation of the Japan-Philippines Joint Statement, entitled “Partnership between Close Neighbors for Comprehensive Cooperation,” which forms the basis for today’s “Strategic Partnership” between the two nations.

In the information released by Captain Jefferson Mariano, chief of 8ID Public Affairs Office, four firearms were also seized during the “joint focused military operation” of the Philippine Army in coordination with the Philippine National Police.

According to Mariano, the joint operation was launched following the information given by concerned civilians that a group of armed men were seen passing through in the outskirts of the said barangay.

The Army’s 803rd Brigade encountered more or less 40 rebel members who allegedly belonged to the Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit (SRGU) and remnants of the dismantled Front Committee-2 (FC2), Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Emporium, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC). According to Mariano, the rebel group was led by Mario Sevillano, alias Durok.

Solon seeks more benefits for showbiz, media workers

CAMARINES Sur Rep. LRay Villafuerte wants a swift congressional action on measures designed to better protect and provide more benefits to millions of Filipino workers in the maritime, teaching, media and showbiz professions.

He urged the Senate to consider passing after the March 25-May 7 legislative break the Senate versions of House-approved measures providing labor protection to seafarers in both foreign-flagged and Philippine-registered vessels; better working conditions, plus more job-related benefits for journalists and showbiz workers; and allowing all government workers to retire early when they reach the age of 56.

He appealed to Congress to consider passing after the break two bills raising the take-home pay and institutionalizing the classroom supply allowance to our public school teachers. Rio N. Araja

Alfred Frias

CITYHOOD ANNIVERSARY. Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, former congressman Ricky Sandoval and City Administrator Alexander Rosete welcome Senator Cynthia Villar as guest speaker during the ‘Gabi ng Pasasalamat’ at the Malabon City Sports Complex. The event fetes the top business and real property taxpayers of the city as part of the celebration for Malabon’s 22nd Cityhood Anniversary and 424th Foundation Day. Andrew Rabulan

GIRLS IN STEM. Senior High School students Kristin Lana C. Bernardino and Nicole O. Flores from the Felta TechVoc Academy in Bulacan prepare their prototype mobile robot at TESDA’s Labor Day exhibit. The two won in the recently concluded Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) strand for the National Skills Competition Mobile Robotics Champion and will represent the country in the World Skills competition in mobile robotics in July 2023 in Singapore. Their prototype robot can be used as an assistant to deliver, retrieve, and sort medicine and hazardous materials to different patient rooms and nursing stations in hospitals. Danny Pata

The Lord is my Shepherd

so closely with the Father that they are one.

To know Jesus is to know the Father, and our relationship with Jesus invites us to share in the life of God, removing all distance between us.

The parable teaches that Jesus is the true and Good Shepherd who was willing to sacrifice himself for those who put their faith in him.

Labor Day 2023

THIS year’s observance of Labor Day will be marked, as usual, by two completely opposing views on the situation of the Filipino working class.

THE fourth Sunday of Easter is commonly known as Good Shepherd Sunday, and in all three lectionary cycles, the Gospel reading is taken from the tenth chapter of the Gospel of John. This comes after the story of Jesus healing a man who was born blind and the Jewish leaders’ rejection of this miracle, which prompts Jesus to refer to himself as the Good Shepherd and criticize the Pharisees and other leaders.

This leads to further conflict with the religious leaders that continues until Jesus’ death.

Any other person who claims to be the shepherd is a thief or robber, as they are false shepherds.

The message of this parable is wonderful for anyone seeking peace with God, as it reminds us that Jesus cares, watches over, and protects those who believe in him.

Although we are not comparable to sheep, the Lord regards us as individuals with distinct worth. Jesus values us on a personal and intimate level, as illustrated beautifully by the Prophet Isaiah’s words, ‘I have called you by your name, you are mine, do not be afraid. You are precious to me and I love you.’

Jesus’ devotion and love for us exceed even that of a loving shepherd for their sheep.

Jesus never coerces us into accepting his call, but instead extends a free invitation to follow him.

It is within our own discretion whether or not we choose to answer, and though we may take our time, Jesus will persistently call out to us by our name until we respond.

On the one hand, no less than the President himself will undoubtedly cite in his speech government efforts to protect the rights and enhance the welfare of our workers.

On the other, we can also expect protest rallies by labor groups decrying the government’s failure to live up to its pledges to improve the lot of Filipino workers and demand wage increases.

The militant Kilusang Mayo Uno has served notice it expects around 10,000 workers to participate in a massive protest rally on Labor Day.

What’s different this year, however, is that government will give financial aid to workers amid calls for wage hikes.

According to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), it will distribute ₱1.8 billion worth of financial assistance to workers as wage hike petitions remain under review.

But will government accede to the demand for wage hikes?

There are currently eight petitions filed across regions calling for an increase in the minimum wage of workers in the country.

Labor Day is a day for honoring the working class and recognizing their contributions to building the national economy

In this Gospel reading, set in a moment of tension and conflict, Jesus responds to the question of whether he is the Messiah by essentially saying that if they have to ask, then they are not part of his followers.

He also asserts his unity with the Father, leading the Jews to want to stone him for blasphemy, but he escapes.

Although we may be less familiar with the metaphors of sheep and shepherd than Jesus’ original audience, the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd and his followers as sheep has endured as a primary image in our faith tradition, symbolizing the protection, security, and care that shepherds provide for their sheep.

During the time of Jesus, shepherds were an integral part of everyday life for many people.

When Jesus utilized the symbol and image of a shepherd, his audience would have grasped its significance right away.

However, what does the shepherd imagery of Jesus signify for us in modern times?

Despite sheep appearing indistinguishable to us, a shepherd is able to recognize and know each one on an individual basis.

When a shepherd calls out to a sheep, it identifies the voice and reacts accordingly.

Just like how a shepherd understands their flock, the sheep also recognizes and trusts the shepherd.

The shepherd serves as a guide and protector to the sheep, leading them to their destination.

The Good Shepherd Gospel emphasizes the familiarity and intimacy between Jesus and his disciples, who recognize and know his voice, and the close relationship between Jesus and the Father, with Jesus identifying

Jesus’ request for us to follow him is not trivial, as he offers us not only a fulfilling life, but also his own fullness of life. He came to ensure that we can experience life to the fullest in both the present and future.

The Good Shepherd passage is significant in several ways. First, it emphasizes Jesus’ relationship with his followers.

Jesus knows his sheep by name, and they recognize his voice.

This intimate relationship between the shepherd and his flock is a symbol of the relationship between Jesus and his disciples.

The Gospel highlights Jesus’ sacrifice on behalf of his followers. Jesus willingly laid down his life for his sheep, a powerful image of his love for us.

This act of sacrifice is central to Christian belief and is a key aspect of the gospel message.

And Lastly, the Good Shepherd passage encourages us to trust in Jesus and follow him.

Just as the sheep trust their shepherd to lead them to safety, we are called to trust in Jesus to lead us on the right path and protect us from harm.

As we travel through Easter and approach the celebration of Pentecost, let us all recognize the profound and personal love that Jesus holds for each and every one of us.

When Jesus calls out to us by our name, may we respond with faith, gratitude, and appreciation, and be willing to follow wherever He leads us.

Indeed, in this challenging time for me, my mantra comforts: “The Lord is my shepherd. There is nothing I shall want.”

Website: tonylavina.com. Facebook: tonylavs Twitter: tonylavs

High time to push back

and called for broadening alliances with like-minded countries in light of these increasing incidents of blatant disrespect to Philippine sovereignty and international law.

The cash-for-work TUPAD program will grant ₱100 million worth of salaries to qualifi ed benefi ciaries.

The agency will also release around ₱50 million for livelihood assistance to workers nationwide.

IT’S always nice to write about something good.

Times like these, it comes as a breath of fresh air to know that Boracay is back in business. I spent most of the past week in Boracay, together with some members of the family and a European guest, wondering before we left Manila how the fabled tourist island now fares.

The last time I went there was a quick visit for the wedding of Ren-ren Cayetano and his bride at the Shangri-la in 2016.

The year after, Pres. Duterte closed the island to visitors to do urgent rehabilitation, as the coliform levels in the main beach had increased to dangerous proportions.

The sewage water treatment facility which the Philippine Tourism Authority completed during my watch in Pres. Estrada’s time (though formally inaugurated under Pres. GMA) needed upgrading of the sewer pipes because the island’s normal carrying capacity had been breached by so many establishments, in a helter-skelter, absolutely un-planned “development.”

That draconian decision which I initially criticized produced many discoveries, the most blatant violation being the Malay government’s unbridled spree of permits even if the hotel or resort failed to connect to the now Ayala-managed water treatment facility.

DOLE, however, appears in no hurry to grant wage increases at this time, and says the working class will have to wait for the process already in place to determine whether there is a need to revise the existing minimum wages in different parts of the country.

Wage boards can only act on wage petitions a year after the last wage order.

The labor groups want a ₱530 peso increase in the minimum wage in Metro Manila.

The current minimum wage of workers in the National Capital Region is at ₱570. The think tank IBON Foundation, however, believes the family living wage in NCR is ₱1,161 per day.

In other words, there’s a wage gap of 50.9 percent or ₱591.

At present, there are 58 bills in the House of Representatives and 21 in the Senate seeking to increase the wages and salaries of workers and employees both in the public and private sectors.

An ordinary factory worker earning the minimum wage can barely support a family of five amid rising prices.

The trade unions are therefore justified in asking for higher wages and more benefits, and the least the government should do is to allow them to ventilate their grievances.

After all, Labor Day is a day for honoring the working class and recognizing their contributions to building the national economy.

Bora is back in business

and has not been resumed since. Maybe Sec. Manny Bonoan would want to prioritize this?

One other nice development was the widening of the beach frontage in Station 1 particularly, the width of which is less than those of Stations 2 and 3.

As a result, the violating hotels and resorts have had to either close down and be demolished, or their properties sliced in half to conform to the easement regulations.

Another is that trikes and regulated public transport facilities in the island are electrically operated, thereby lessening the smoke-belching.

tion X-ray, an obvious redundancy, something I likewise experienced in NAIA 1 when I flew to Taipei last March.

Caticlan’s arrival and departure areas were likewise a cinch, although I understand a new and bigger terminal is being constructed.

Our return trip, without the runway traffic in Caticlan, arrived 15 minutes ahead of schedule.

Tourists have started flocking to the white powdery sands of Bora.

Our inbound PAL plane was full, with what I would estimate to be 80 percent domestic travelers and 20 percent foreign visitors, mostly Korean and Europeans. At the Movenpick where we stayed, the ratio is about 60 percent foreign visitors and less domestic travelers, although many of these were really balikbayans and therefore counted as foreigners by the DOT and immigration if they already took foreign citizenship.

It was my first time to stay at the Movenpick, now managed very professionally by France’s Accor Group which also operates Sofitel, Mercure, Novotel, Ibis and other hotel brands known worldwide for efficiency and high standards.

“THE Philippines might be a small nation, but our country has a coast guard with a big heart that is willing to serve the Filipino people and an overwhelming loyalty and bravery to protect the republic.”

This was the bold statement that Philippine Coast Guard Commander Julio Colarina made on the cutting-off maneuver instigated by a China Coast Guard ship against one of our PCG vessels just a day after President Ferdinand

“Bongbong” Marcos Jr. hosted Chinese

Foreign Minister Qin Gang aimed to defuse ongoing tensions.

Well, so much for that. This is the umpteenth time that Beijing has committed these bullying tactics and is increasing in frequency with more threatening language.

The PCG vessels BRP Malapascua and BRP Malabrigo was on patrol in the South China Sea carrying journalists from several media organizations as they were approaching the Second Thomas Shoal, where Philippine Marines are stationed.

CCG vessel 5201 reportedly made dangerous maneuvers that would have resulted in collision hadn’t it been for the quick reaction of the PCG crew.

Malapascua commanding officer Rodel Hernandez described the encounter as a “David and Goliath” incident against a CCG ship that was more than twice its size.

On Saturday, the PCG reported more than 100 Chinese maritime militia (CMM) vessels, a People’s Liberation Army Navy corvette, and two CCG vessels again doing their swarming tactics at Whitsun Reef which is well inside the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

The PCG told to the Chinese intruders to leave but was again ignored.

Senators have expressed their outrage

As our PCG is now implementing a firm and active stance to protect our sovereign rights, it looks like these close encounters with the CCG and Chinese Maritime Militia are going to be a more daily occurrence and therefore emphasizes the urgency to modernize our defense capabilities that the government must accelerate both in military hardware, upgraded proficiencies, and deeper alliances with like-minded states.

President Marcos Jr. has consistently maintained his administration will maintain a strategic balancing act in pursuing an independent foreign policy that focuses on cooperation with likeminded friends while being guided by Filipino people’s interests.

Unfortunately, we are not getting any cooperative reciprocity to de-escalate but instead we are getting more intimidation and threats in our maritime territories.

This is what we get for former President Duterte’s pivot to China which allowed six years of incursions and unprecedented Chinese militarization in the WPS and South China Sea wanton destruction of marine resources which will have long term effects to the region’s food security.

Also participating as observers were Australia with approximately 100 personnel and Japan.

These are three among many likeminded states that are now gravitating into an Indo-Pacific alliance to uphold the rule of law in these international waters which are critical maritime routes that must be kept open.

Any disruption will create a crisis to the global economy that is already struggling with the effects of the Ukraine war.

It’s really about time the Philippines does its own pushing back against Chinese bullying.

In strong show of force, the recent Balikatan exercises was our largest joint war games with our only military ally, the United States.

Images on television about huge hotels with multi-million capital expenditures disgorging their detritus into the beach through pipes concealed beneath the sand justified the president’s decision to close the island.

DPWH and TIEZA were thus able to first, widen the road traversing the southern part in Manoc-Manoc to Station 1 in the north, and retro-fit the sewage pipes from the white beach area to the sludge treatment facility, and then to Bulabog where the treated water, now clean, was emptied far from the shoreline.

One particular improvement I noticed was the road widening into two lanes which included the expropriation of a stubborn landowner’s protruding property in the narrow Station 1 area.

For far too long, the Malay local government was unable to get the landowner to give way to the road widening.

The road construction stops though as one reaches the uphill part leading to Station Zero where hotels like Crimson, Movenpick and Shangri-la are located.

Residents say that the construction stopped during the COVID lockdowns

I still hate the fact that the local government allowed the building of minimalls with concrete superstructures which house the usual brands you see all over the country. Had Boracay’s development been designed properly with a master plan when Pres. Cory took over, at a time when the island was kept pristine because it was the “private” playground of Pres. Marcos Sr. and his entitled friends, and not left to the local government which was interested only in hefty incomes from permits and property taxes, Boracay could have been such a beautiful community with a common architectural theme evocative of tropical island life.

But, no use crying over the undone.

We should thank Pres. FVR and Pres. Estrada for infrastructure improvements that increased the carrying capacity of the island and provided fresh water from the Nabas River in mainland Aklan, the visitor’s processing center, even the conversion of Kalibo’s airport into an international terminal with a lengthened runway. And Pres. GMA for the bulldozing of a hill that prevented Caticlan from having a longer runway that has made visiting Boracay a faster and more convenient adventure, thanks to Ramon Ang’s PPP.

I also noticed the improvement in NAIA’s Terminal 2 where we boarded our PAL flight to Boracay on time. Procedures were much faster, especially with the removal of the luggage pre-inspec-

This was also the first time that a combined joint littoral-live fire drill was conducted wherein some 1,400 marines, soldiers, sailors, airmen, and PCG together with US troops simulated the sinking of an “enemy” vessel off the coast of San Antonio, Zambales.

Early last month, the President named four additional sites expanding access to US military troops under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement.

This increases the total to nine EDCA sites. US$82 million has been allocated by the US for upgrading projects in various EDCA sites.

The hotel is highly recommended, with a huge swimming pool and nice tropical gardens dividing the four-story lodging areas from the wide, white sand beach. It is truly good value for money.

Over at Stations 1 and 2 where most of the restaurants and boutique hotels are located, one is happy to note that domestic tourism is still upbeat, with revenge travel likely fueling it.

In times of economic recession, it is really domestic travel that saves our tourism.

I wish though that the DOT and the local government could somehow streamline the crowded areas without losing its happy ambience.

Sec. Frasco arrived in the island last Friday afternoon for a look-see and a conference with tourism stakeholders.

Two of the urgent requests include provision for clean public restrooms (make sure the maintenance is done well) and a hyperbaric chamber for scuba divers in the Bulabog side and the northern parts facing Romblon.

Tourism is really a function of a good product made accessible and affordable (infrastructure), and product promotion.

Boracay needs no further promotion in the world market, but tourism infrastructure needs upgrading and business regulations strictly enforced.

Still and all, Boracay is back in business, and hopefully, other Philippine natural tourist destinations like Palawan, Siargao, the Montanosa and the Visayas which are truly tropical Asia’s best.

ment, the two leaders will “review opportunities to deepen economic cooperation and promote inclusive prosperity, expand our nations’ special people-to-people ties, invest in the clean energy transition and the fight against climate change, and ensure respect for human rights.

“The two leaders will also discuss regional matters and coordinate on efforts to uphold international law and promote a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

It is expected that President Biden will reaffirm US commitment to the defense of the Philippines.

Approximately 12,200 US and 5,400 Philippine troops took part in over two weeks of maneuvers focused on maritime defense, coastal defense, and maritime domain awareness.

Today is the start of the bilateral meeting between US President Joe Biden and our President.

According to the White House state-

It is also expected that President Marcos Jr. will share his plans to actively participate in the promotion of the rules-based international order guided by his commitment to advance Philippine national interest.

It is expected that President Biden will reaffirm US commitment to the defense of the Philippines

Tourism is really a function of a good product made accessible and affordable (infrastructure), and product promotion

In this challenging time for me, my mantra comforts: ‘The Lord is my shepherd. There is nothing I shall want’

Crimea fuel depot on fire after drone attack

Russian-held towns shelled in Ukraine

AHUGE fire erupted in Moscow-annexed

Crimea after a suspected drone attack hit an oil depot, as fighting intensified on the southern Ukrainian front and shelling deprived Russian border villages of power.

The attacks on Saturday came one day after Kyiv said preparations for a long-awaited counteroffensive were nearly complete, having vowed to expel Russian forces from territory they seized in the east and south following their 2022 invasion.

On Friday, a Russian strike on a block of flats in the central Ukrainian city of Uman killed 23 people, including a baby boy.

On Saturday, officials in Moscowcontrolled Crimea, towns under Russian occupation in southern Ukraine reported attacks.

The governor of a Russian region near the border with Ukraine also said two people were killed when a Ukrainian missile hit a village.

“As a result of the strike inflicted by Ukrainian nationalists, unfortunately, two civilians were killed,” Alexander Bogomaz, governor of Bryansk oblast, said in a message posted on Telegram, reporting an attack on Suzemka.

Fears of Ukrainian reprisals more than a year into Moscow’s offensive have grown in Russia, where a range of cities have cancelled traditional May 9 celebrations to mark the Soviet victory over the Nazis at the end of World War II in 1945.

In Sevastopol, home to Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, clouds of smoke rose high into the sky as fuel reserves burned.

The Crimean port city has been hit by a series of drone attacks since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine began more than a year ago.

Russian-installed authorities said the fire was caused by a suspected drone but sought to play down the incident, amid rising security fears on the peninsula.

The Kremlin said nothing about the attack.

It came less than 24 hours after Russia struck a typical Soviet-era housing block in the historic city of Uman, killing more than two dozen residents.

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, in his evening address on Saturday, said six children had been killed in the attack – the previous figure given by the authorities had been five.

“We will do everything possible to ensure that the terrorist state is held accountable for its actions as soon as possible,” he added.

“Anyone who prepares such rocket attacks cannot but know that they will become an accomplice to murder.”

The Ukraine leader said that next week would be important in terms of “our struggle for justice.”

He stressed that Kyiv was preparing “several important, powerful steps to consolidate our partners and give more energy to the creation of a tribunal for the crime of Russian aggression. And to accelerate the defeat of the terrorist state.”

Earlier Kyiv had identified an 18-monthold baby boy as among the victims.

“One woman is considered missing. The search continues,” Ukrainian Interior Minister

Igor Klymenko said. Ukraine did not claim the Crimea attack, but military intelligence implied it was revenge for Uman. Andriy Yusov, from the defense ministry’s intelligence unit, said it was “God’s punishment, in particular for the civilians killed in Uman.”

He warned people in Crimea to “avoid being near military facilities and facilities providing the aggressor’s army in the near future.”

On the Russian-annexed peninsula, the governor of Sevastopol, Mikhail Razvozhayev, urged Crimeans to “remain calm” and said “nobody was hurt.” He estimated the fire was “around 1,000

square meters” (11,000 square feet).

Razvozhayev insisted that the peninsula’s reserves had not been impacted and that authorities had enough fuel for all civilian needs. Earlier this week, Moscow said it had repelled a drone strike on Crimea – annexed by Russia in 2014 and used as a launchpad for its invasion. AFP

wise’: Biden laughs off age gags

THE abortion pill will become available in Japan for the first time after the health ministry approved the drug used to terminate early-stage pregnancy.

Abortion is legal in Japan up to 22 weeks but consent is usually required from a spouse or partner, and until now a surgical procedure had been the only option.

The ministry said in a notification to healthcare officials on Friday it had approved the drug made by British pharmaceutical company Linepharma.

The drugmaker filed its product, a two-step treatment of mifepristone and misoprostol, for approval in Japan in December 2021.

Similar medication is available in many countries including France, which first approved the abortion pill in 1988, and the United States, where it has been available since 2000.

The approval of the pill to end

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 224, QUEZON CITY rtc2gzn224@judiciary.gov.ph 091536275421 (02) 86586669

IN RE: PETITION FOR GUARDIANSHIP OF THE ESTATE OF EDMUNDO F. RELUCIO, R-QZN-22-08854-SP MARIA LETICIA PRAXEDES RELUCIO MIRANDA, Petitioner, x---------------------------------------x AMENDED ORDER (Notice of Hearing)

In the Petition dated August 18, 2022, the petitioner alleged that she is of legal age, and the niece of Dr. Edmundo F. Relucio (“Edmundo”); Edmundo is an American citizen, married, a resident of the United States of America(“US.A.”), and has been declared incapacitated by US medical authorities by reason of age and illness; Edmundo admits that he cannot, without outside aid, take care of himself and manage his property within and without the U.S.A., and it is his personal preference that the petitioner be appointed as guardian for the sole purpose of pooling in all his remaining resources and place it all under the Dr. Edmundo F. Relucio Trust; his nearest of kin in the Philippines, other than the petitioner are his granddaughter Angelique Magdalene A. Bautista, and his niece Learni Magdalena A. Bautista, who both executed Affidavits of No Opposition; on November 19, 2019, Edmundo issued (1) an Illinois Statutory Short Form Durable Power of Attorney For Property in favor of his sister Corazon Sopena, (2) Power of Attorney for Healthcare in favor of his niece Armynd Mercado, and (3) General Power of Attorney in favor of the petitioner; Edmundo has dollar and peso accounts with Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation, Fairview, Quezon City, and the bank requires that the petitioner be appointed as guardian by the court for purposes of withdrawal/closure of the said bank accounts. Petitioner prays that she be appointed as guardian over the property of Edmundo F. Relucio, and that letters of guardianship be issued in her favor.

WHEREFORE, notice is hereby given that the petition will be heard before this Court sitting at Room 701, 7th Floor, Hall of Justice Annex Building, Quezon City Hall Compound, Diliman, Quezon City on June 15, 2023 at 3:00 in the afternoon, at which date and time, Edmundo F. Relucio must be present if able to attend, and all persons interested and concerned may appear and show cause, if any, why the petition should not be granted. The hearing will be through videoconferencing, and a link will be sent to all interested parties. For this purpose, the petitioner and all interested persons are directed to submit through the Court’s email/hotline their email addresses and mobile numbers not later than five (5) days before the hearing. If they have no means or facility for videoconferencing, they are directed to physically go to the court on the date and time of the hearing. The petitioner is directed to cause the publication of this Order once in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines, to be chosen by raffle, and to furnish

pregnancies up to nine weeks follows a ministry panel endorsement, which was postponed for a month as thousands of public opinions were submitted.

National broadcaster NHK said the total cost of the abortion pill and a medical consultation would be around 100,000 yen ($700). Abortions are not covered by public health insurance.

Surgical abortions can cost around 100,000 to 200,000 yen.

Mifepristone has been at the center of a high-profile US court battle in recent weeks.

The US Supreme Court has temporarily preserved access to the widely used abortion drug, freezing rulings by lower courts that would have banned or severely restricted its availability.

Campaigners in Japan are also pushing for better access to the morning-after pill, which prevents pregnancy.

Emergency contraception cannot currently be bought in Japan without a doctor's approval. It is also the only medicine that must be taken in front of a pharmacist to stop it being sold on the black market. AFP

US President Joe Biden took it on the chin Saturday at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner as he laughed gamely through sharp jokes about his age, and hit back with a few of his own. Washington's political and media elites gathered for their annual big-night-out in the US capital for an event that ranged from the traditional comedy gags to somber calls to free reporters imprisoned abroad.

Headlining the after-dinner entertainment was "Daily Show" correspondent Roy Wood Jr., who gleefully mocked Biden, 80, for running for a second term in the White House that could mean he is still president at age 86.

Wood noted recent angry

ROASTED. US President Joe Biden laughs during the White House Correspondents' Association dinner at the Washington Hilton in Washington, DC, April 29, 2023. AFP

protests in France against raising the retirement age.

"They rioted because they didn't want to work until 64. Meanwhile, in America, we have an 80-year-old man begging us for four more years of work," he dead-panned, drawing a broad smile from Biden, sitting only yards away.

"'Let me finish the job' – That's not a campaign slogan, that's a plea," Wood added.

"Say what you want about our president, but

"Say what you want about our president, but when he wakes up from that nap, work gets done."

Biden aimed one of his barbs at media mogul Rupert Murdoch, the 92-year-old owner of conservative TV network Fox News.

"You might think I don't like Rupert Murdoch, that's simply not true. How can I dislike a guy who makes me look like (29-year-old pop star) Harry Styles?" Biden joked.

He also targeted CNN presenter Don Lemon who was sacked allegedly after sexist and ageist on-air remarks. "Call me old – I call it being

seasoned. You say I am ancient – I say I'm wise. You say I'm over the hill – Don Lemon would say that's a man in his prime."

The dinner institution had started to wither – first boycotted by Donald Trump, then shut down altogether to fend off COVID-19. Even last year, strict COVID testing, frequent use of masks and diminished attendance resulted in a low-key affair.

But this year's event for 2,600 guests was sold out, and attended by both Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.

Having the president and vice president in attendance restored a tradition last observed in 2016, the final dinner before Trump entered the White House.

"Folks, it is wonderful to be back here again, proving I haven't learned a damn thing," said Biden.

learned

Japan OKs abortion pill for early-stage pregnancy King Charles III’s coronation: Who’s who?

THE coronation of King Charles III will feature a vast array of characters, each with roles steeped in history – some of which have been tweaked to fit the 21st century.

"Those undertaking these historic roles in the service have been chosen to recognize, thank and represent the nation due to their significant service," Buckingham Palace said.

The Archbishop of Canterbury

The most senior cleric in the country will officiate over the ceremony, and crown and anoint the new king and queen. Justin Welby, 67, has been the spiritual leader of the Church of England since 2013. The former oil industry executive had to prepare the order of service. The leader of the world's Anglicans has admitted May 6 is giving him "nightmares", saying he had dreamt of reaching the point of coronation and then realizing he had forgotten the crown.

The Earl Marshal

The hereditary role of organizing state events belongs to the Duke of Norfolk, who acts as Earl Marshal. Edward Fitzalan-Howard, 66, organized Queen Elizabeth II's funeral, as well as King Charles's accession and the state openings of parliament. The duke was banned from driving for six months in September for using his mobile phone at

the wheel, despite claiming he needed his license to arrange the coronation.

Governors-general and prime ministers Charles is the head of state of 14 countries besides Britain. Their governors-general – effectively viceroys – plus the prime ministers, will be the first to enter Westminster Abbey following faith leaders. The flags of each country, including Australia, Canada, Jamaica and New Zealand, will be carried by national representatives. Royal Air Force

Cadet Warrant Officer Elliott Tyson-Lee will carry the British flag.

Standard bearers

The Duke of Westminster, the Earl of Dundee, the Marquess of Anglesey and the Earl of Caledon will carry the standards representing England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland respectively. The Duke of Westminster, Hugh Grosvenor, 32, is one of the richest people in Britain. Charles is his godfather. Francis Dymoke, whose family has been the King or Queen's Champion since medieval times, will carry the Royal Standard. "The King's Champion would previously ride on horseback into the coronation banquet and challenge any who doubted the right of the King or Queen to the throne," Buckingham Palace said. "There has

The occasion is meant to celebrate the constitution's First Amendment guarantees of free speech and to advocate for a free press worldwide.

First family of Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street imprisoned charges.

Before the dinner, Biden met with the family of Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter arrested and imprisoned in Russia last month on espionage charges. US officials strenuously deny the allegations, and a large media campaign has been launched to push for his release.

Gershkovich, who previously worked for AFP, is the first foreign journalist arrested in Russia on spying charges since the collapse of the Soviet Union. AFP

not been a coronation banquet since that held by King George IV in 1821 so the champion has instead undertaken a different role since, usually bearing a flag or standard."

The Duke of Wellington Charles Wellesley, 77, is descended from the 19th-century prime minister and victor of the Battle of Waterloo whose statue in Glasgow is regularly topped by a traffic cone. He will carry Queen Mary's Crown, which will be placed on Queen Camilla's head by Welby. Former Bishop of London Richard Chartres, a close friend of King Charles, will also help with Her Majesty's Regalia by carrying the Queen Consort's Ring.

The Lord High Steward of England

The Lord High Steward is the most senior of the Great Officers of State in England, though the post has largely remained vacant since 1421. As such, they get to carry St Edward's Crown, which Welby will place on King Charles' head. General Gordon Messenger –the governor of the Tower of London, where the crown jewels are kept – has been appointed Lord High Steward, an office held only for the day. "It is a huge and unique honor," said former senior Royal Marines officer Messenger, 61, who led troops in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Other bearers of regalia

Former MI5 spy chief Elizabeth Manningham-Buller, 74, will carry St Edward's Staff. Nursing professor Elizabeth Anionwu, 76, will carry the Orb. Trinidadian-British actress, children's television presenter and parliamentarian Floella Benjamin, 73, will carry the Scepter with Dove. Penny Mordaunt, 50, who ran to become prime minister in 2022, will carry the Sword of State, as Lord President of the Council. Royal Navy Petty Officer Amy Taylor will be the first woman to carry the jeweled Sword of Offering.

Prince George of Wales

King Charles's nine-year-old grandson, who is second in line to become king after his father Prince William, will be one of eight Pages of Honor during the service, joining a procession through the nave and assisting with holding the robes. AFP

‘Seasoned,

FIRE IN THE SKY. This video grab taken from a footage released on April 29, 2023 on the Telegram channel of Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol, shows a huge fire at a fuel depot in Sevastopol. AFP / TELEGRAM / @razvozhaev

Visayas faces rotational power outages

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Department of Energy said over the weekend consumers in the Visayas may continue to experience rotational power outages as the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines works to normalize the transmission of supply.

“The DUs will have to manage their load given the limited capacity of substations, and accordingly supply of power, while NGCP is working on full recovery of the grid,” the DOE said in a statement Sunday.

IN BRIEF

PSE index likely to test 6,600 level this week

LOCAL stocks are expected to move sideways with an upward momentum in this shortened trading week on expectations of positive firstquarter earnings of listed companies.

“Next week, the local market may test the 6,600 line. The strong conviction seen last Friday gives us hope that the market would be able to hold its ground at the said line. If it is able to do so, 6,600 will be considered as its new support, while its next resistance would be at 6,800,” Philstocks Financial Inc. senior research manager Japeth Louis Tantiangco said.

Tantiangco said investors were anticipating first-quarter corporate earnings to remain strong despite macroeconomic headwinds. Initial corporate earnings results were strong with banks registering high double-digit growth in profits in the first quarter.

Tantiangco said another factor that could boost market sentiments is if April inflation rate continues to slow down from 7.6 percent in March.

“How the market will close the week, however, may depend on our April inflation figures. An inflation reading slower than March’s 7.6 percent, especially one near or at the lower end of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ 6.3 percent to 7.1 percent ranged forecast may give the local market a boost,” Tantiangco said. Jenniffer B. Austria

ERC issues preliminary rates for RE auction

THE Energy Regulatory Commission released over the weekend the preliminary Green Energy Auction Reserve prices for the second round of the Green Energy Auction Program that will be conducted by the Department of Energy in June.

GEAR prices serve as the ceiling price for the GEAP 2 where DOE will offer a total capacity of 11,600 megawatts in renewable energy installation target, with 3,600 MW for 2024, 3,600 MW for 2025 and 4,400 MW for 2026. The ERC generally set lower rates for GEAP-2 compared to GEAP-1 except for wind and biomass. “Solar is higher in GEAR-2 preliminary. Wind is lower this year because its capacity factor has improved,” ERC chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta said.

The agency set the GEAR price for different solar technologies: rooftop solar at P4.7156 per kilowatt-hour, ground-mounted solar at P4.2395 per kWh and floating solar at P4.7565 per kWh.

It also set the GEAR price for wind at P5.9823 per kWh and biomass P5.1475 per kWh but set aside the waste-to-energy, which will be posted at a later time prior to the commencement of the public consultations. Alena Mae S. Flores

BEXCS Logistics discloses overseas expansion plan

BEXCS Logistics Solutions Inc. said it plans to further expand its operations overseas this year to serve the growing demand for e-commerce globally. BEXCS Logistics chairperson and BEXCS Worldwide chief executive Marjorey Rubio said the company, which was established in Bulacan, would expand its footprint not only in the Philippines but also in neighboring Asian countries such as Hong Kong and Taiwan.

The logistics company recently opened new offices in Hong Kong and Taiwan to put BEXCS into the universal logistic market. “We’ve partnered with numerous companies and organizations from Taiwan and Hong Kong, and we hope that through this fruitful partnership, we will open more financial streams for the company while staying committed to our goals of providing opportunities to many people,” Rubio said.

“In the third quarter, we are expanding in the US, Malaysia, Dubai and Europe,” she said.

Rubio said the company plans to open 287 branches in the Philippines this year, including 81 company-owned outlets.

“BEXCS has been operational since 2019, and it was only last year that we officially launched it along with the opening of our franchise business and headquarters in Cebu, which aims to cater to our growing customers here in the Philippines,” she said. Darwin G. Amojelar

Visayas consumers experienced up to 12hour blackout in the past three days, and the NGCP said it was still determining the root cause of the outages. Power interruptions were experienced in Cebu, Iloilo, Antique, Capiz, Aklan and Guimaras.

“Thus, DUs may still impose rotational brownouts until full recovery of the grid. With the entry of PCPC [Palm Concepcion Power Corp.], we would have a stronger network through the generation reactive support, and the system voltage will stabilize to normal condition,” the DOE said. NGCP said it was tirelessly working with the generation and distribution sectors to resolve the power outages. “We are cognizant of the suffering the recent spate of power interruptions have wrought on the consumers and businesses in the provinces and cities of Panay island,” it said.

“While we have assessed our system for possible malfunctions, and confirmed that our protocols are working as intended, we are also exploring the possibility that adjustments need to be made along the supply chain to stabilize power in Panay,” it said.

“In this regard, we are working with our counterparts in the generation and distribution sectors to implement the needed adjustments on our respective protection settings, and resolve the issue soonest,” it said.

The Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association Inc. said it was monitoring the power situation in the

Visayas after the NGCP reported system disturbances in the grid. “Philreca wishes to emphasize that the situations that caused power interruptions are beyond the ECs’ control, but rest assured that our ECs are closely coordinating with NGCP for the restoration of electricity,” the group said.

Meanwhile, Occidental Mindoro Consolidated Power Corp. agreed to simultaneously operate its three power plants to avert the 20-hour rotational brownout in the province, National Electric Administration administrator Antonio Mariano Almeda said over the weekend.

PEZA supports revised rules on incentives

By Othel V. Campos

PHILIPPINE Economic Zone Author-

ity director-general Tereso Panga said over the weekend the entire economic zone industry, including investors, lauded the issuance of the revised revenue regulation that widens the list of incentives offered to qualified projects/activities of registered business enterprises.

“The revised revenue regulations gives justice to the real intent and spirit of the CREATE law, which is to incentivize qualified investments and to streamline and clarify the guidelines on the availment of VAT zero rating/ exemption incentives by RBEs,” Panga said.

URC DONATION. Universal Robina Corp. distributes some 135 tons of potato seed tubers to help hundreds of farmers in Benguet and Mountain Province grow their harvests and income. Four container vans containing 108 tons of potatoes were distributed to 268 farmers, while another 27 tons were given to 67 farmers. Attending the turnover ceremony in Benguet are (from left) Gerald Glenn Panganiban, director of Bureau of Plant industry, concurrent director of High Value Crops Development Program and National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program; Cameron Odsey, regional executive director of DA RFO-CAR; Vicky Yap, URC vice president for global procurement; Basilio Copas, chairman of United Potato Producers of Benguet and Mountain Province Inc.; Benguet Governor Melchor Diclas; and Dr. Benguet State University president Felipe Comila.

BSP issues new policy on capitalization of Islamic banks

By Julito G. Rada

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said over the weekend it approved a new policy on minimum capitalization requirement for the operation of Islamic banking units in the Philippines.

The modified policy allows conventional commercial banks or subsidiary banks of a universal bank—which meet the minimum capital requirement for their respective banking category—to operate an Islamic banking unit within a transitory period not exceeding five years.

BSP Governor Felipe Medalla said the policy provides more flexibility in

licensing of an Islamic banking unit of qualified conventional banks.

“The BSP aims to incentivize the conventional banks to test, explore and develop the market for Islamic banking products and services with prudential safeguards to support the entry of a critical mass of Islamic banking players in the country,” Medalla said.

Qualified conventional banks with Islamic banking units will also be accorded prudential relief in meeting the minimum capital requirement which will be based on the actual number of branches/units being used in Islamic banking operations.

The application of BSP’s enforce-

ment framework provides prudential safeguards to ensure accountability on the committed business plan and capital build-up plan after the transitory period of covered banks with Islamic banking units to promote market discipline in the financial system. The BSP said it intensifying its efforts to establish an inclusive and sustainable Islamic finance ecosystem in the country. The BSP’s prudential regulatory reforms on Islamic banking cover licensing, Shari’ah governance, liquidity risk management and reporting guidelines, which were recently issued under BSP Circular No. 1139.

PSE INDEX CLOSING

“With the restoration of our ecozone export-oriented locators’ incentives, including VAT zero rating/exemption on goods and services that are directly and exclusively used in their registered activity, this will improve their bottomline and capacity to reinvest in the country,” he said.

PEZA said the VAT zero rating, as amended by the Bureau of Internal Revenue, would attract new investors to take advantage of the incentives and benefits offered by the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act.

PEZA said that as locators are spared from the VAT refund process, the regulation would also benefit local suppliers who are no longer required to apply with the BIR for the VAT zero rating of their transactions.

The certification issued by investment promotion agencies will be the basis for availing of the VAT zero rating incentive. This will strengthen the role of IPAs in investment facilitation and exercise of regulatory functions over RBEs, according to PEZA.

SMB reported 38% net profit growth to P6.8b in first quarter

By Jenniffer B. Austria

SAN Miguel Brewery Inc., a joint venture of San Miguel Corp. and Japan’s Kirin Holdings Co., reported a double-digit net income growth in the first quarter.

SMB said in a statement over the weekend first-quarter net income jumped 38.2 percent to P6.8 billion on the back of strong sales performance of both domestic and international operations amid the continued easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

UNIONDIGITAL-HUAWEI TIEUP. UnionDigital Bank, the digital bank subsidiary of Union Bank of the Philippines, teams up with global technology leader Huawei to bring innovative financial services to more people in the Philippines by tapping into the tech company’s ecosystem of services and 7 million customer base. Through the strategic collaboration, the UnionDigital Bank app is now available on the Huawei AppGallery to allow easy access for users to the digital bank’s financial services and products. Attending the signing of the agreement are (from left) Kevin Zang, gead of Petal Ads, Huawei APAC; Ken Liang, director of Philippines Ecosystem Development and Operation, Huawei Technologies Philippines; Henry Aguda, president and chief executive of UnionDigital Bank; and Mike Singh, chief commercial and revenue officer of UnionDigital Bank.

ACEN bares $8-b investment plan to achieve 8,000 MW of renewable projects in PH until 2030

ACEN Corp., the power generation arm of Ayala Corp., is building 8,000 megawatts of renewable energy projects in the Philippines until 2030 with investments of about $8 billion. ACEN president and chief executive Eric Francia said about 600 MW of RE capacity was already in operation, while 1,000 MW was under construction, of which 70 percent would soon be operational.

Francia said the Philippines would remain as ACEN’s core market at 40 percent of the 20,000-MW target by 2030, followed by Australia with a footprint of

5,000 MW.

“In addition, we will continue to grow our presence in Vietnam, Indonesia and India. Onshore solar and wind will remain our core energy technologies, complemented by investments in new technologies such as battery energy storage, floating solar and offshore wind,” Francia said.

ACEN plans to build 3,000 MW in Indonesia and other markets, 2,000 MW in Vietnam and 2,000 MW in India by 2030.

“If you look at last couple of years, we’ve been starting close to one gigawatt of new projects every year...Today, we already have a little over 4 GW of capacity

both operating and under construction,” Francia said.

“At some point, we have to ramp up or step up or go beyond 1 GW-per-year mark because if we stay at 1 GW per year with eight years to go, we’re not gonna get to 20 GW,” he said.

Francia said ACEN would accelerate project development closer to 2 GW towards mid to end part of the decade.

ACEN is also moving forward with its commitment to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, which fully supports the company’s ongoing growth and decarbonization strategy.

ACEN completed in December its net zero roadmap, making the company the first in Southeast Asia to take the critical step towards achieving net zero, with a transparent framework for monitoring progress.

“ACEN recognizes that to reach the net zero outcome for the power sector, it will need to rely on both emissions reduction and neutralization of residual emissions.

As part of its transition plan, ACEN aims to deliver reduction-led decarbonization by 2040, with an interim target for 2030, and a net zero status by 2050,” he said. Alena Mae S. Flores

First-quarter revenues climbed 29.3 percent to P38.3 billion from P29.7 billion in the same period last year.

Consolidated operating income grew 25 percent to P8.4 billion.

SMB’s domestic beer volumes grew by 26.1 percent, boosted by new brand campaigns and offtake-generating programs, complemented by relaxed restrictions.

International operations posted a 28.5-percent increase in sales volume from its exports business and Hong Kong operations. Volumes were still 16.4 percent lower compared to 2019 pre-pandemic levels.

SMB said that in the first quarter, it rolled out the San Mig flavored water—a refreshing unsweetened noncarbonated drink and San Mig Hard Seltzer—which is made from sparkling water with a 5-percent alcohol.

It also recently launched San Miguel Cerveza Blanca—a wheat beer positioned in the upscale market. SMB exports to Indonesia, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, the United States and Bahrain. It recently expanded in new markets in Asia and Africa.

World Bank urges PH to give perks on ‘smart agriculture’

THE World Bank has urged the government to grant the private sector incentives to invest in climate smart agriculture and renewable energy and tap ESG bonds to finance climate actions countering disasters.

World Bank officials said the government should expand the access of climate financing to the private sector in a Country Climate and Development Report (CCDR) 2022 it presented in a forum of the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA).

It also urged the Philippines to make investment policies for climate action attractive and encouraged access to environmental, social and governance (ESG) bonds.

“Public and private investments are needed to finance adaptation through climate-resilient infrastructure. Financing mitigation measures from private sector should be incentivized by new regulatory technology-push and demand-pull policies,” said Souleymane Coulibaly, World Bank project leader and lead economist, at the SEARCA forum.

“On the private side, issuing ESG bonds under the recently introduced Sustainability Financing Framework could leverage private financing for climate actions.”

ESG bonds are generally part of sustainability financing supported by

the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Eligible green expenditures include clean transportation, climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction projects, sustainable agriculture and renewable energy (solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, hydropower).

Dr. Stefano Pagiola, World Bank senior environmental economist, also said at the SEARCA forum that attractiveness of climate smart agriculture practices to farmers should be improved, citing three benefits such as increased productivity, higher resilience and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

He said some policies must be avoided, noting that policy for farmers not to pay for water does not give farmers incentives to use water efficiently.

In Luzon and Cordillera, a technology that may have higher financial return for farmers is the use of blight resistant white potatoes in crop rotation with green cabbage and rainwater harvesting. Financial return is estimated at more than P500,000 per hectare.

In Visayas and Cordillera, another technology with good financial return is rice-onion crop rotation with the use of early maturing rice.

Dr. Glenn B. Gregorio, SEARCA director, said talks on climate policies are now critical. Gregorio himself has been immersed since 1986 in developing adaptation solutions to climate challenge.

“Sustainable Development Goal 13 for climate action is close to my heart. I have been a plant breeder for abiotic stresses, (developing rice) for drought tolerance, submergence tolerance, and salt tolerance,” he said.

Climate change adaptation techniques in agriculture enable crops to withstand increasing temperature from global warming and receding rainfall.

Gregorio said collaboration from the academe and industries are important to promote sustainable practices.

The poorest population will be the most adversely affected by climate disasters—with consumption reducing by almost 9 percent compared to the richer population’s lower 6 percent. As such, solutions should prioritize the poorest, along with women, for their target beneficiaries.

The Philippines is extremely vulnerable to erratic climate change, with temperature that has risen by two 0.68 degrees C (Centigrade), further rising by 1-3 degrees C, on various scenarios.

Globe Telecom promotes device circularity, paperless business cards

GLOBE Telecom Inc. is rolling out new initiatives to foster sustainable practices in the workplace. The company is standardizing its employee work tools to the latest MacBook Air lineup and introducing the use of E-Business Cards (EBCs).

In collaboration with HCX Technology Partners Inc., a Globe portfolio company under the Asticom Group of Companies, and CompAsia, Globe is providing its 15,000 employees under the Globe Group the option to get MacBook Air service units as their chosen work tool to strengthen operational resiliency and promote circularity.

With regard to the company’s choice of service units, a key consideration was how Apple has taken sustainability into account in the design and production of its products.

“By investing in the best work tools for our people, we not only improve the ways of working within the Globe Group, we also empower everyone to serve our customers better while actively participating in creating a sustainable future,” said Globe

Group chief transformation and operations officer and chief customer experience officer Beck Eclipse.

In promoting circularity, the company teamed up with CompAsia to initiate a “take-back” scheme for old units, which will allow for three-year old service units to be re-marketed rather than be disposed of.

By extending the life cycle of the devices, Globe is minimizing e-waste in support of its Net Zero commitments.

As of February 1, 27 percent of Globe employees have already shifted to using MacBooks for day-to-day business tasks.

The company expects the number to increase as more employees choose this as their main work tool.

Globe in 2017 launched an internal program that promoted employees’ freedom of choice when it comes to picking the best work tools that suited them. Today, the company has expanded this program to practicing circularity, engaging employees, communities and its supply chain.

Delivery trailblazer is recognized among top startup movers in 2023

MOBER chief executive officer Dennis Ng, a frontrunner in driving innovation in the country’s third-party delivery industry, has been named among the movers and shakers in the local startup scene in 2023 by pioneering the switch of its fleets from traditional to electric vehicles (EVs).

Ng founded Mober in 2015 as the local startup that was first to offer an on-demand plat form for cost-effective, same-day delivery service for SMEs, shoppers and households.

In 2018, the compa-

San Miguel’s MRT-7 project incorporates sustainability

SAN Miguel Corp. is working closely with the local government of Quezon City to integrate walking and cycling with public transport starting with the construction of its MRT-7’s elevated turnback guideway that recently broke ground.

Globe Telecom Inc. new hires receive their MacBook M1 Series service units from key officers of Globe, the Asticom Group of Companies, Apple Inc. and CompAsia. Shown (from left) are CompAsia country head Jerry Lacson, Globe vice president for People Experience Nico Bambao, Globe Platform management director Red Bernaldez, HCX managing director Froilan Rabatan, Asticom Group of Companies president and chief executive officer Mharicar Castillo-Reyes, Apple Enterprise and Education country leader for Philippines and Malaysia Erli Valdez and Globe head of Sustainability & Social Responsibility Apple Evangelista.

Sun Life, WFF tie up on food shed farming

Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation Inc.

ny became a strong player in the third-party delivery service industry after earning investment from the SM Investments Corp.-led logistics provider 2GO Group.

Despite economic turmoil due to the pandemic in October 2021, Mober made a significant stride toward growth and sustainability by being the first logistics company in the Philippines to introduce EVs to its fleet.

As a pioneer in the EV delivery space, Mober has facilitated the transition toward greener transport

in the Philippines by providing an environment-friendly logistics option to big companies committed to achieving their net-zero goals.

Mober has added 16 electric vans and four electric trucks to its traditional fleet. It also plans to re-fleet around 180 of its gas-powered vans and trucks into electric vehicles by mid-2024.

With his experience as a serial entrepreneur and EY-trained auditor, Ng has led Mober to improve the company’s environmental impact and boost the country’s green logistics.

“As we aim to help more retail giants, big FMCGs, and logistics companies decarbonize their fleets quickly, we also want to inspire other local startups to jumpstart their sustainability journey and contribute to achieving a greener economy,” said Ng.

Mober teams up with big-name clients in various industries, including Ikea, SM Appliance Center, Rockwell Land, Nespresso and Red Ribbon Bakeshop.

“We are proud to be the go-to green+tech logistics provider in the Philippines by leveraging electric vehicles, utilizing technology to achieve efficiencies, and advocating for sustainability in the industry,” Ng added.

(Sun Life Foundation), the philanthropic arm of Sun Life Philippines, signed an agreement with World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines to establish two Food Shed Farming Enterprise projects in the province of Surigao del Norte.

The projects seeks to provide food source and economic resiliency for low-income urban communities through food security, and sustainable livelihood among the locals.

The Food Shed Farming Enterprise projects aim to secure food and livelihoods as well as mitigate food shortages in the community by using sustainable agriculture interventions, increasing the capacity to utilize technology, and promoting climate-resilient and sustainable production systems that minimize the impact of the stresses that contribute to limited food accessibility.

“With this collaboration, we hope to further improve the resiliency of the food supply of communities, especially with the threats that

Sun Life Foundation officers hand over the giant check donation to World Wide Fund for the two ‘Food Shed Farming Enterprise’ projects during the signing of the memorandum of agreement on February 24, 2023

climate change poses to our food resources,” said Katherine Custodio, executive director of WWF.

Located in Del Carmen, Siargao Island, the Food Shed Farming Enterprise projects will be established in Barangay. Caub and Halian Island and are expected to benefit 250 individuals through sustainable livelihood, as well as provide almost 2,000 locals with access to hyperlocal nutritious food.

“Through this collaboration with WWF, the Sun Life Foundation aims to provide food security, sustainable livelihood, and climateadaptive technologies for the locals of the island in an environmentally sustainable manner,” says Kristine Dianne Millete, executive director of the Sun Life Foundation.

“It is our earnest hope that through this project, we can alleviate the effects of food shortages and help our farmers with alternative farming technologies that support food security even during times of pandemic,” Millete added.

This facility that SMC will build along West Avenue in Quezon City near MRT-7’s North EDSA Station will ensure that train services across the project’s alignment are efficient and on-schedule.

At the same time, a one-kilometer portion of West Avenue, between Examiner Street and EDSA—where the elevated turnback guideway will be built—will be redesigned to create wider pedestrian walkways and bicycle lanes, at no cost to the local government.

The modal integration will help improve access to MRT-7 and support the local government’s broader effort to sustainable mobility and improved quality of life in the city.

“The construction of MRT-7’s turnback guideway at West Avenue presented an opportunity for us to help advance Mayor Joy Belmonte’s push for more and better active transport infrastructure in the city. Once completed, the new configuration of the road will feature wider pedestrian walkways, and bike lanes that will benefit more people,” SMC president and chief executive officer Ramon Ang said.

“We are grateful to the Quezon City government led by Mayor Joy Belmonte for the opportunity to contribute to the development of the city, especially in terms of transport infrastructure,” Ang said.

Mayor Belmonte, in a letter to Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista, gave the city government’s approval of the construction of the guideway, as well as the redevelopment of the area, as part of its various pursuits in improving roadways in the city.

“The Quezon City Government conveys its interest to undertake the implementation of the project using private funds from the MRT-7’s private partners. We note that it is in the best interest of the city given our numerous roadway improvement efforts,” Belmonte said.

Mober chief executive officer Dennis Ng

Photos courtesy of Department of Agriculture website

Next phase in PH preparations: Scouting World Cup opponents

By Peter Atencio

NOW that the Philippines knows its grouping in the coming FIBA World Cup, the next phase of its preparations is knowing and familiarizing itself with its opponents.

Gilas Pilipinas was bracketed in Group A with the Dominican Republic, Italy and Angola during the World Cup draw ceremonies on Saturday evening at the Araneta Coliseum.

This made Gilas Pilipinas coach Chot Reyes wary, since their three opponents will be equally dangerous, as proven in their previous encounters with their would-be Group A rivals.

“It is what it is. Good thing now is that we have clarity on whom we’re playing,” said Reyes as soon as he learned what is

in store for Gilas.

The Philippines didn’t have any success against these teams in the recent past.

During the 2019 FIBA World Cup in Foshan, China, the team, which was then coached by Yeng Guiao and led by naturalized player Andray Blatche, was blown away by Italy, 62-108.

In the same tournament, the Filipinos succumbed to a heartbreaking 81-84 overtime loss to the Angolans.

Two years later in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Serbia, an all-cadet Gilas Pilipinas team suffered a 27-point loss to the Dominican Republic, 67-94.

But observers believe that the Philippines can be competitive this time around since Gilas is preparing at its own homecourt. Plus, the team will either have a certified difference maker in NBA star Jordan Clarkson of the Utah Jazz, or, many-time PBA Best Import and newly naturalized Filipino Justin Brownlee, who has seamlessly fit into the team.

“The next phase is to look at the teams that we’re playing, and select the players, and

Rivers doubts Embiid plays in Celtics opener

WASHINGTON—NBA scoring champion Joel Embiid is doubtful to play in Monday’s opening game of Philadelphia’s second-round playoff series against Boston on Monday, 76ers coach Doc Rivers said on Saturday.

The 29-year-old Cameroonian 7-footer (2.13m) suffered a sprained right knee in game three of the 76ers’ sweep over Brooklyn in their best-of-seven first-round series. Embiid, who averaged 33.1 points and 10.2 rebounds a game

Lady Falcons secure 3rd seat in volley semifinals

ADAMSON University clinched the third seed in the UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball Final Four after turning back Far Eastern University, 25-22, 2628, 25-15, 25-17, on Sunday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

Usual suspects Kate Santiago and Trisha Tubu delivered anew with 21 and 18 points, respectively, for the Lady Falcons.

Ending the elimination round at 10-4, its best since a 12-win season in 200708, Adamson will face the twice-to-beat and No. 2 seed, National University, in the semifinals.

University of Santo Tomas settled for the No. 4 seed and will meet top-ranked De La Salle University in the other Final Four bracket.

“Opportunity ito for greatness,” said Adamson head coach Jerry Yee on their upcoming semis. “’Yung mga kalaban namin nakakakuha naman tayo ng set or two so ibig sabihin pwede, ibig sabihin may chance. Anytime na may chance na puwedeng ilaban, laro lang, laban lang.”

With FEU ahead 11-10, Lucille Almonte and Kate Santiago delivered the Lady Falcons’ final blow on a 9-3 blast to pull away and complete the win in two hours and 14 minutes.

With the Lady Tams down 26-25 in the second set, Jov Fernandez came through for the tie before Lorene Toring’s error gave FEU the lead, and Alyzza Devosora iced the set with an off-theblock kill, 28-26.

Meanwhile, the balanced grouping of teams is expected to make the highly anticipated games of the World Cup 2023 very interesting to watch, according to FIBA president Hamane Niang.

“I leave it to the experts to the discuss the draw. Let them (teams) show their games on the floor, on what this draw has created. It’s a very balanced and interesting draw. In Manila, there will be 16 amazing teams to watch. And for the fans, there will be a lot waiting for them,” said Niang through an interpreter.

Niang said he looks forward to great games in the Philippines, just like when the country hosted it back in 1978, with Yugoslavia winning the crown with an thrilling 82-81 finals win in overtime.

Defending champion Spain, which defeated Argentina in the finals four years ago, was drawn in Group G, and will play in Jakarta with Brazil, Iran and Ivory Coast.

Argentina was knocked out of contention during the qualification stage’s second round, following their 75-79 loss to the Dominican Republic.

But Adamson responded with a blazing 16-8 start in the third set, all the way to the 25-15 win to move on the verge of victory.

Toring also produced 13 points while Almonte dazzled with her overall performance of 10 points, 22 excellent receptions, and 16 digs.

The Lady Tamaraws finished fifth with a 6-8 record, a huge leap from their 1-13 card last season.

Fernandez came through for FEU with 18 points, Jean Asis made 13 points, while Gerzel Petallo and Devosora had 11 points apiece.

Tin Ubaldo was all over the court with 11 excellent sets, seven points, including four blocks, and 15 digs.

Watch the UAAP Season 85 Collegiate Volleyball Tournament on the UAAP Varsity Channel (Ch. 263 HD). Available on Prepaid Loads 300 & up (valid for 30 days).

Lim returns as Brookside Open begins

for the Sixers, will have rested for 10 days before the 76ers visit Boston for the opener against the Celtics.

“He didn’t do anything today,” Rivers said after a weekend workout. “If I was a betting man, I would probably say doubtful for at least game one, but we’ll see.”

In four games against Boston this season, Embiid averaged 36.8 points, 11.8 rebounds and 4.3 assists.

The Celtics went 3-1 against the 76ers this season. Embiid missed the first two

games of last year’s second round of the playoffs against Miami with a right orbital bone fracture and the Sixers lost to the Heat in six games.

Embiid also missed playoff games in 2018 with a left orbital fracture.

Boston has won five consecutive playoff series against Philadelphia, which last ousted the Celtics in the post-season in 1982 Eastern Conference finals. AFP

Team Ilustre claims team title in COPA Golden Goggle

TEAM Ilustre East Aquatics continued its dominance, collecting 30 gold medals, including 17 in the BiFin event as it claimed the overall team championship on Sunday at the close of the Congress of Philippine Aquatics, Inc. Golden Goggle 3rd and 4th legs at the Teofilo Yldefonso swimming pool inside the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Malate, Manila.

After leading the team to 21 gold medals on opening day Saturday, national junior record holder in the boys’ 13-under Jamesray Mishael Ajido pulled off another remarkable performance, winning four gold medals, including three in the BiFin event as Team Ilustre topped the combined team scores with 4,682 points in the tournament powered by Speedo and supported by the Philippine Sports Commission and MILO.

The 14-year-old veteran interna-

backstroke with a time of 1:02.47.

Other multiple-gold medal winners in BiFins, under Team Ilustre were Zoe Adrienne Terrible in the girls’ 16yrs 200 free (2:16.11), 50 free (27.56) and 100 free (1:00.25); Yoana Ysabelle Bersamin in the girls’ 13-yrs 200 free (2:20.83), 200 free (2:56.99), and 50free (28.57); and Rio Rafaella Balbuena in the girls’ 17-yrs 200 free (2:18.59), 50 free (27.17), 100 free (1:02.67) and 100m back in classical swim (1:20.87).

Also contributing to Team Ilustre’s runaway win were Luke Amber Arano in the boys’ 17-yrs 50 free (22.33), Allyssa Cabatian in the girls’ 15-yrs 50 free (26.02) and 100 free (57.27), Ethan Dulin in the boys’ 15-yrs 100 free (55.77), Claine Lim in the girls’ 13-yrs 100 free (1:20.24), Ruth Sula in the girls’ 15-yrs 100 free (1:21.54) and Andrina Rose Victor in the girls’ 9-yrs 200free (3:01.76).

FORMER tennis prodigy Alberto Lim makes his much-awaited return to competitive play in the Brookside Open National Championships beginning today (Monday, May 1), seeking no less than a victory in the first round to fuel a campaign against a slew of aces all primed for battle at the Brookside Hills courts in Cainta, Rizal. Lim, who has dominated the junior circuit and vied in a number of Grand Slam junior events, reaching the second round of the Australian Open in 2017, went on a hiatus due to illness but has since worked his way back to form in time for this week’s championship backed by Rep. Michael John “Jack” Duavit.

But the former singles champion here will have his hands full in his first competition after the pandemic, facing off with Kenrik Ng at 9 a.m. in one of the matches kicking off the Group A tournament organized by Brookside Tennis Club president Allan del Castillo and held under the PPS-PEPP tennis program put up by Palawan Pawnshop president/ CEO Bobby Castro.

Multi-titled Jose Maria Pague, Vicente Anasta, Nilo Ledama, Ronard Joven, Noel Damian, John Mari Altiche, John Tomacruz and Loucas Fernandez banner the 64-player draw that also includes Eric Tangub, Alexis Acabo, Alberto Villamor, Noel Salupado, Rollie Anasta, Chat Conta, Marco Macalintal and Elvin Geluz.

Also on tap are the Legends competitions slated on May 5-7 and the Juniors play on May 1114. For details, contact tournament organizer Bobby Mangunay at 0915-4046464.

Adamson’s Lucille Almonte delivers the nal blow from a 9-3 blast as the Lady Falcons pulled away and complete the win in two hours and 14 minutes.

tionalist bested his opponents in the BiFin 100 freestyle, clocking 52.27 seconds, as well as in the 200 free (1:56.15) and 50 free (22.80).

The Grade 7 student from Montessori Integrated School-Antipolo claimed his fourth gold, winning the classic (regular) swimming event in the boys’ 100m

Participants in the COPA Golden Goggle get ready to answer the starting gun.

Joel Embiid AFP

hopefully with a team that can compete with the players that we know are going to be on the other team,” added Reyes.

Chot Reyes

C2 MONDAY, MAY 1, 2023

Nickie Wang, Editor Patricia Taculao, Editorial Assistant E-mail: lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

By Nickie Wang

THE much-awaited summer season is finally here, and if you’re among the many travelers seeking adventure, there’s a myriad of fascinating vacation spots and tourist destinations in the country that you can add to your bucket list.

Filipinos are eager to travel again as seen in a study conducted by Klook, with 87 percent of respondents planning to travel. Domestic travel is

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Travel Master with COVID-19 is available whether you’re planning to travel locally or internationally – making it a flexible and much-needed travel companion anywhere you go.

So if you’re looking for destinations to add to your vacation bucket list, here are six spots around

The Ruins in Bacolod is also known as the Taj Mahal of the Philippines

expected to fully recover this year, with the country’s hotels and resorts association reporting that occupancy rates have exceeded 2019, driven mostly by local tourism.

With 2023 being dubbed as the year of “revenge travel, there’s no better time to plan your trip, pack your bags and head-off for an unforgettable adventure. But before you do, ensure your travels are hassle-free by getting Travel Master Insurance with COVID-19.

“Traveling should be fun, stress-free, and hassle-free, this is why we created Travel Master insurance to provide our travelers the peace of mind and protection from any kind of eventuality so they can make the most out of their trips,” said Mario Berta Igloo’s Country Manager for the Philippines.

Created in partnership with GCash and Malayan Insurance, Travel Master with COVID-19 provides travelers coverage including for personal accidents, flight delays, lost luggage, emergency medical treatment, hospital cash allowance, travel inconvenience benefits, and COVID-19 protection.

To get the Travel Master coverage, simply access the GInsure page available on your GCash app and select Travel and Travel Master with CO-

HATS off to my dear friend, former Tourism Secretary Dr. Mina Gabor, for having pulled off the world’s first-ever Ecotourism Travel Mart. She actually found out during the pandemic that she won the bid to host the event here in Manila but she couldn’t do anything about it because international borders were closed to outgoing and incoming travel.

Of course, once quarantine restrictions were lowered, Mina immediately started the ball rolling and formed a team of simi larly hardworking tourism industry practi tioners to help her take care of the millionand-one details needed to put together this

Fascinating vacation spots to achieve your summer travel goals

the Philippines to get you started:

Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte

Located in the Davao Gulf, Island Garden City of Samal is the largest resort island in the Philippines, with over 30 resorts along its 118-kilometer coastline. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling in the Coral Garden and Marine Park, exploring the botanical garden and nature park, and observing the world’s largest colony of fruit bats at the Monfort Bat cave.

It’s just a 15-minute boat ride from Davao City, making it a convenient stop for travelers seeking stunning landscapes and seascapes. Alona Beach, Bohol Alona Beach in Panglao, Bohol, is an excellent addition to any beach lover’s travel bucket list. With

a 1.5-kilometer stretch of white sand beach and crystal-clear blue waters, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. For those who want to explore more, nearby Balicasag Island offers rich marine biodiversity, including a 400-meter coral garden and marine sanctuary, which can be reached by a short boat ride. The famous Chocolate Hills, Mahogany Forest, and Loboc River Cruise are also must-visit destinations while in Bohol.

The Ruins, Bacolod

The Ruins, also known as the “Taj Mahal of the Philippines,” is a popular tourist spot in Talisay, Bacolod City. Originally the ancestral home of Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson, it was built in memory of his wife Maria, who died giving birth

to their 8th child. Despite being burned down during World War II, the mansion’s foundation still stands and is admired for its Italian-inspired architecture. The Ruins has become a popular wedding venue due to its romantic history. Visitors can also take a day trip to Silay to explore its well-preserved heritage houses, such as the Golez Heritage House and the Balay Negrense heritage house and museum, to appreciate the old-age architecture of the Philippines.

Museo Orlina, Tagaytay City

This museum in Tagaytay City is a great destination for a relaxing adventure in a cooler climate.

It showcases the glass sculptures of Filipino artist Ramon Orlina and features a four-floor exhibit area,

including the Reflections Gallery and the Naesa Gallery, which exhibits the work of up-and-coming Filipino artists. Visitors can also take a walk in the Sculpture Garden and Amphitheater to admire Orlina’s work alongside nature and enjoy a beautiful view of Taal Lake from the roof deck.

Tam-awan Village and Bell Church

As the Summer Capital of the Philippines, many vacationers travel to Baguio in search of respite from the hot weather. The cooler climate alongside the beautiful nature makes it a must-go destination for anyone regardless of their preference for adventure.

Those who’ve been to Baguio several times would undoubtedly know of its most famous landmarks including Wright Park, Burnham Park, Camp John Hay, and more. But for those who want to discover more about the city and its culture, there’s no better place to visit than the Tam-awan Village and the Bell Church.

Tam-awan Village in Baguio City showcases indigenous craftsmanship, Ifugao architecture, and local art pieces set within a beautiful mountainside forest. Meanwhile, Bell Church in La Trinidad, Benguet is a 63-year-old Taoist temple where visitors can appreciate the temple’s architecture and lotus pond, and have their fortunes read by the monks.

A green event

world event.

Held in Silang, Cavite, the five-day International Ecotourism Travel Mart (IETM) showed how collaboration and commitment push ecotourism to its rightful place as a prime mover for the kind of tourism that nurtures the environment and uplifts communities hosting the sites.

Presented by the Asian Ecotourism Network, together with our Department of Tourism (DOT), the IETM was organized by the International School of Sustainable Tourism (ISST) of which Mina is the chair and president. The lush green grounds of the ISST provided the perfect venue for the event, which had a theme “Embracing Authentic Ecotourism.”

Through this first international green event, the Philippines has carved its name in history, as 25 participating nations networked, shared learnings and resources, engaged and discovered more during the multi-faceted exposition and festival.

During the opening ceremony, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco stated that “tourism can no longer just be about quantity but rather quality. For this reason, events such as this that highlights the im-

portance of sustainability are a gift to our country and the world.”

For his part, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista presented transport innovations planned with sustainability in mind. He said, “Transport is an essential

part of tourism, and these sectors can make substantial contributions to sustainability with its relentless pursuit.”

Other VIPs who attended the event were Mayor Alston Kevin Anarna of Silang, Cavite, Dr. Mundita Lim, executive director of the ASEAN Center for Biodiversity, Dr. Glenn Gregorio, Director of the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA), Wanvipa Phanumat, director of the Thailand-based Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), and Masaru Takayama, chair of the Asian Ecotourism Network (AEN).

Alluring beauties also graced the event: Miss Earth 2022 Mina Sue Choi, Miss In-

One of the booths features these very attractive weaves and beads from Mindanao

donesia Earth Karina Basrewan, and Miss Philippines Earth Jenny Ramp

The multifaceted event had a Market Place where exhibitors showcased ecoproducts, while 300 guests attended various Ecotourism Fora spread over two full days. DOT Usec. Verna Buensuceso started the series by showcasing DOT’s thrusts on sustainability, while Dr. Gabor capped it with the topic of forming viable tour packages. There was also a Butterfly Garden with hundreds of species, and a “Fishalan” of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources which featured aquaponics. Cultural presentations made the event more memorable and meaningful.

A highlight of the event was when the participants joined in the pledge embodied in the Silang, Cavite Declaration on Ecotourism Marketing and Promotion which called for its adoption in Asia Pacific countries. This commitment embodies respecting and valuing contemporary and traditional culture and heritage of the communities, using locally produced materials, and providing positive visitor experience during visits to historically and culturally sensitive sites.

Thanks to our indefatigable Dr. Mina Gabor, our country has now etched its name on the pillar of the world’s tourism industry as having taken the lead in putting together the first-ever green event.

For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@ gmail.com.

Property brand intensifies hiring initiatives for Labor Day 2023

THIS Labor Day, Filipinos will once again express their appreciation for the country’s workforce and their significant contributions to their respective industries. They will be called upon to continue ensuring fair working conditions for all Filipino laborers and professionals and safeguard their welfare.

In this spirit, property brand Asterra is affirming the value of a competent, competitive, and motivated workforce in the real estate industry. Having emerged last year as a pet project of Vista Land and Golden MV Holdings Inc. Chairman Manny B. Villar, Asterra is putting together a winning team for 2023 and beyond.

Asterra is thus offering exciting career opportunities to ambitious fresh graduates seeking to make their start in the world. Those who aspire to apply

their skill sets at a rising brand like Asterra are enjoined to check out the various positions that are currently open in the company: property specialists, digital marketing agents, graphic artists, and more.

A strong interest in property sales as well as a deep understanding of digital marketing will be the applicants’ portal to the company, as such will be invaluable in promoting the Asterra brand of high-quality affordable condominium units to aspiring homeowners and investors.

Deborah Eria, a division head at BRIA Homes, speaks about the opportunities that await at Asterra. “With this latest project, Chairman Villar expects the company to replicate his past accomplishments in the residential property sector. Young, enthusiastic graduates

would do well to align with it early on and contribute to its growth as a potential leader in its field.”

While hiring will be done all year round, Asterra held a job fair on April 18, attended by the human resources team of Asterra, along with those of other Vista Land brands. The event was organized in coordination with the Ateneo de Naga University, which traditionally assists its graduates find viable career options. The event was a great success and inspired many young and promising fresh graduates to line up and apply for the various posts available.

For more information on Asterra, please check out its website: https:// www.asterra.com.ph/ or the official Asterra Facebook Page:https://www. facebook.com/AsterraOfficial.

Samal is the largest resort island in the Philippines Bohol’s Alona Beach is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers

After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the VIP guests which include Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista and Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco join ISST chair and president Dr. Mina Gabor beam the heart sign

The Singkaban, the decorated bamboo arch, provides a festive and authentic Filipino welcome to the IETM guests which averaged a thousand daily

Honoring workers on their special day

By Patricia Taculao

DOLE to spearhead Labor Day with gov’t aid, Kadiwa, nationwide job fairs

IN CELEBRATION of the 121st Labor Day, the Department of Labor and Employment has lined-up three significant activities to honor the Filipino workers—the Kadiwa ng Pangulo Para sa Manggagawa, the awarding of government assistance to workers, and the conduct of national simultaneous job fairs held across the country.

The activities will be held on May 1 in 16 regional sites, with the National Capital Region (NCR) as the primary event site.

In partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Agriculture (DA), the labor department will host the Kadiwa ng Pangulo Para sa Manggagawa to help workers access commodities at lower prices.

Kadiwa, spearheaded by DA, enables the farming community to sell goods directly to consumers without the trader-intermediaries, allowing them to reap higher profits while still offering quality products at an affordable price to consumers.

The labor department will also lead the payout of assistance/salaries to beneficiaries of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program, Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES), and Government Internship Program (GIP) across the regions.

Meanwhile, to facilitate employment, simultaneous job fairs will be conducted in various SM and Robinsons malls nationwide, with the main job fair site in NCR.

This early, the Department is encouraging jobseekers to be ready with their application requirements, such as resume or curriculum vitae, certificate of employment for those formerly employed, diploma, and transcript of records.

Other government agencies, such as the DTI, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and Department of Migrant Workers (DMW); and pre-employment service agencies, like the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Social Security System (SSS), Pag-IBIG, Philhealth, and Philippine Postal Corporation will provide services during the event.

This year’s Labor Day is observed with the theme, “Pabahay, Bilihing Abot-Presyo, Benepisyo ng Matatag na Trabaho Para sa Manggagawang Pilipino.”

THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) invites job seekers in the Philippines as it rolls out thousands of job opportunities during the 121st observance of Labor Day on May 1.

An initial 73,779 job vacancies are up for grabs in the face-to-face job fairs to be participated in by 808 employers in 42 job fair sites nationwide.

Among the top industries are BPO, manufacturing, financial and insurance activities, manpower services, and sales and marketing.

The top vacancies are for customer service representatives, production workers/operators, financial consultants, service crew, and sales agents or sales clerks.

The number of vacancies is expected to increase in the following days, according to DOLE.

The main job fair site is at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City, where over 12,000 jobs will be offered by 125

However, the relevance of employees in society spans centuries as they’re the backbones of communities that supported and preserved their growth. Eventually, by the late 19th century, advocates supporting workers’ rights lobbied to establish a national holiday to commemorate workers’ contributions, achievements, and struggles. Thus, International Workers’ Day or Labor Day was born.

As a national holiday in many countries, Labor Day allows people to get the day off to celebrate success and relax. In the Philippines, people celebrate Labor Day annually on May 1.

It had a relevant beginning on May 1, 1903, through the Philippines’ first labor organization, “Union Obrera Democratica de Filipino (UODF).”

The U.O.D.F. was formed in February 1902 by Isabelo Delos Reyes and Herminigildo Cruz to defend the rights of the working class while under American occupation. In August 1902, the American-led government arrested Delos Reyes for rebellion, sedition, and conspiracy to raise the price of labor.

Eventually, Dominador Gomez succeeded in the position. UODF organized more than 100,000 employees to march from Plaza Moriones in Tondo to Malacañang to protest and demand fair wages and better working conditions from the then-American-led government in 1903. This protest marked the beginning of Labor Day efforts. It was considered one of the first protests on the streets of Manila. Gomez led the workers in the march, where he got arrested on similar grounds as Delos Reyes.

Five years later, on April 8, 1908, the Philippine Assembly passed a bill recognizing May 1 as Labor Day and declared it a national holiday.

On May 1, 1913, Cruz, the other founder of U.O.D.F. established the Congreso Obrero de Filipinas in support of Filipino workers and their rights. The party demanded fair working conditions for the labor sector, including eight-hour working days, an end to child labor,

equal labor standards for women, and employers’ liability to their employees. Despite Labor Day being an opportunity to unwind, labor groups and organizations also see it as a chance to take to the streets and call the government’s attention to their demand for better working environments. A modern celebration

This year’s theme is “Pabahay, Bilihing Abot-Presyo, Benepisyo ng Matatag na Trabaho Para sa Manggagawang Pilipino.” It signifies the advantages that Filipinos can enjoy on May 1, thanks to government initiatives and their collaborations.

Since it’s the 121st Labor Day in honor of Filipino workers, the Department of Labor and Employment planned three primary activities to coincide with this year’s theme. These events are the Kadiwa ng Pangulo Para sa Manggawa, awarding government assistance to workers, and conducting simultaneous job fairs nationwide.

DOLE will partner with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) as it hosts the Kadiwa ng Pangulo Para sa Manggagawa to help workers access affordable commodities. Moreover, DOLE will also spearhead The labor department will also lead the regional distribution of financial assistance to beneficiaries of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program, Special Program for Employment of

Students (SPES), and Government Internship Program (GIP).

The activities are on May 1, 2023, in DOLE’s 16 regional offices nationwide.

In the meantime, local governments can hold their own events to celebrate Labor Day accordingly to share in its purpose. Other ways to participate in Labor Day

While Labor Day is a celebration for workers, by workers, there is no stopping others from contributing to the national holiday. Each Filipino household has some, if not all, workers from various industries. Besides having the day off and other benefits, there are more ways that everyday Filipinos can celebrate Labor Day to show their appreciation for what workers do.

For instance, children and others can compose letters of thanks to workers. Even with a few words, Filipino workers can discover how much people appreciate their hard work and efforts in accomplishing their responsibilities. They can also turn to social media to post their heartfelt messages and encourage others to do the same.

Some other activities include watching documentaries or learning more about Labor Day to raise awareness about the challenges workers face then and now. People can even support local products and services to help those in their respective industries earn income.

Meanwhile, business owners can

also show appreciation to their workers in various ways. Among them is giving small bonuses or incentives, depending on the available budget. Once work resumes, treat workers to snacks, food, and other affordable experiences to reward and encourage them for their work.

A potluck party during lunch is also an ideal way to celebrate Labor Day. It can be a time when workers can come together to relax and catch up with their friends and savor equally good food.

On the other hand, some companies organize excursions to give their employees a break from their daily responsibilities. The Philippines has numerous tourist sites in and out of the metro worth exploring and experiencing.

Those who follow a hybrid work setup can maximize their situation by holding an online event, like a raffle, get-together, or concert, to treat their workers. A more feasible suggestion is hosting games where employees can win benefits or other commodities.

In the meantime, the national government will also offer other benefits like free transportation and pay incentives to workers on May 1.

Labor Day is a time for workers to take a break from their efforts in every industry. The day allows them to unwind and spend time with their loved ones as a much-deserved reward. Yet the global celebration goes beyond a day to celebrate workers.

Commemorating the historic struggles and achievements of workers

By Peter Paul Duran

INTERNATIONAL Workers’ Day, also known as May Day, is celebrated on May 1st every year in many countries globally. The holiday commemorates the historic struggles and achievements of workers and the labor movement, with roots dating back to the late 19th century. May Day has origins in the United States, specifically in the events of May 4, 1886, in Chicago. During this time, workers and their supporters held a series of strikes and demonstrations advocating for an eight-hour workday.

Unfortunately, violence erupted, and a bomb exploded near Haymarket Square on May 4th as police attempted to break up a rally. This led to the death of several workers and police officers, resulting in international outrage and the establishment of May Day to honor workers’ rights and labor movements.

employers on April 30.

Other job fair sites in Luzon are the following:

National Capital Region – SM Grand Central (Caloocan City); QC Quadrangle (Quezon City); SM BF Parañaque (Parañaque City); SM Sucat (Parañaque City); SM Southmall (Las Piñas); Robinsons Place Las Piñas; Vista Mall Taguig; SM City Marikina (Marikina City); San Andres Gym (City of Manila)

Cordillera Administrative Region

SM Baguio; Baguio Convention Center

Ilocos Region – Provincial Livelihood

Development Center, Vigan, Ilocos Sur; PESO Multipurpose Hall, Lingayen, Pangasinan; Orbos Gym, Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan; Magic Mall, Urdaneta City, Pangasinan

Cagayan Valley Region – SM City Tuguegarao; Robinsons Place Santiago; Reina Mercedes Municipal Court, Mercedes, Isabela; Northstar Mall, Ilagan City, Isabela; Bambang Sports Complex, Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya Central Luzon – SM City Marilao,

In the Philippines, Labor Day is celebrated on May 1st in solidarity with the international labor movement. It is a day to recognize the contributions and sacrifices of Filipino workers who have fought for better working conditions, fair wages, and social justice.

This year’s Labor Day theme from the Department of Labor and Employment, “Pabahay, Bilihing AbotPresyo, Benepisyo ng Matatag na Trabaho Para sa Manggagawang Pilipino,” highlights the need for secure housing, affordable commodities, and robust employee benefits for Filipino workers. These are essential components of a just and equitable society that supports the well-being of workers and their families.

It is worth noting that although the history of International Workers’ Day is rooted in struggle and conflict, things are different now. With the progress made in protecting workers’ rights, it is no longer necessary for the bloodshed to occur to advance the cause of labor.

Bulacan; SM City Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija; SM City Pampanga, City of San Fernando Pampanga; SM City Olongapo Central; SM City San Jose Del Monte CALABARZON – Ynares Center, Antipolo City, Rizal MIMAROPA – City Mall, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro Bicol Region – Ayala Malls Legazpi Meanwhile, job seekers in the Visayas may visit the following sites:

Western Visayas – Robinsons Iloilo

Central Visayas – Robinsons Galleria Cebu; Lamberto Macias Sports Complex, Dumaguete City, Negros

Oriental Eastern Visayas

Instead, we can work together to promote and protect workers’ rights nationally and globally.

As we celebrate Labor Day in the Philippines this year, let us remember and be grateful for all the advancements that have been made in promoting workers’ rights. Thanks to the efforts of labor organizers, unions, policymakers, and the government, we have seen significant progress in securing better working conditions, fair wages, and social protections for workers.

However, much work remains to be accomplished to ensure that workers are protected and treated fairly. On this Labor Day, let us renew our commitment to advancing the cause of labor and promoting the wellbeing of all workers in the Philippines.

By working together, we can continue building a brighter future for workers and their families so that the fruits of our labor extend beyond secure housing, affordable commodities, and robust employee benefits toward a more just and equitable society for all.

IN RECENT years, people have seen how workers in all industries are essential in keeping countries afloat.

Labor Day 2023 celebration ideas at the workplace. Photo courtesy of www.lumina.com.ph