Manila Standard - 2023 May 9 - Tuesday

PBBM CREATES NEW TASK FORCE FOR DISASTERS

NGCP FEARS MORE ROTATING BROWNOUTS

Ax poised over 4 ‘ninja cops’

As Napolcom sets probe of 32 officers, clears 917 of drug ties

By Charles Dantes

TWO generals and two colonels in the Philippine National Police face administrative and criminal charges for their alleged links to the illegal drug trade, while 32 senior officers face further investigation and 917 others were cleared by an advisory group that screened the top ranks of the police force.

Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. revealed this Monday even as the fate of the policemen involved in the missing drugs from the record P6.7-billion shabu haul seized last year will be released within the week, the PNP said.

In a separate briefing at the Department of the Interior and Local Government office in Quezon City, Abalos also said the advisory body “recommended the non-acceptance of the courtesy resignations of 917 police officers” and further investigation on 32 other officers.

The non-acceptance effectively means these generals and colonels were cleared from the extensive anti-drug probe ordered

Remulla: ‘Voluminous’ evidence to pin down Teves for Degamo slay

By Rey E. Requejo

THERE are “voluminous” pieces of evidence that investigators have against Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Arnolfo A.

Joint patrols by US, PH in WPS by Q3—envoy

By Rey Requejo

JOINT patrols between the United States and the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea might start in the third quarter of this year, Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel “Babe” Romualdez said on Monday.

“We’re already at a... I would call continuing discussions on this joint patrol with the United States. I could guess, an estimate would be no later than the third quarter of this year. We should have that in place,” Romualdez said in an interview on CNN Philippines.

Meanwhile, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri was at the Naval Shipyard in Cavite City as the guest of honor of the Philippine Navy for the christening of two new patrol gunboats and the blessing of the newly upgraded Naval Shipbuilding Center.

The Navy said the arrival and christening of the two brand-new missile

PUSHING BILLS. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez presides over Monday’s opening of the plenary session at the House of Representatives as he rallies support from his colleagues for the passage of the remaining priority measures of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. before the sine die adjournment next month (see story on A2) Ver Noveno

Teves Jr. to pin him down for his alleged involvement in the March 4 killings of 10 persons in the province, including incumbent Gov. Roel R. Degamo.

“‘Wag siya mag-alala (Teves shouldn’t

worry). The evidence is very tight here with us,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla declared on Monday, in response to insinuation by Teves’ lawyers there are no charges filed against the lawmaker for

lack of evidence. “There are many factual matters that have to be considered in such a case because we are talking about more than 10

PBBM to push security issues at ASEAN meet

By Vince Lopez

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will leave for Labuan Bajo, Indonesia today (Tuesday afternoon) for the 42nd ASEAN Summit, where he is expected to push for regional security, food and energy security, efforts toward economic recovery, and combating transnational crimes.

He is also expected to press for the upgrading of technical and vocational education training; adopting climate and disaster-resilient technologies and transitioning to renewable and alternative energy technologies; and protection of migrant workers.

The President just returned Sunday from a two-country swing for a five-day official visit to the US and a three-day visit to the UK to attend the coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla.

The Summit began on Monday with the ASEAN Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM).

SITTING PRETTY. Ernest John Obiena seems to recline in the air after claiming his third straight Southeast Asian Games pole vault gold medal with a new record height of 5.65 meters at the drenched Morodok Techo National Stadium in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on Monday. POC

Obiena bags 3rd SEAG gold with record leap in rain

By Riera U. Mallari

PHNOM PENH—Ernest John Obiena claimed a third straight Southeast Asian Games pole vault gold and obliterated

the record in the rain as he jumped to a height of 5.65 meters at the drenched Morodok Techo National Stadium in Phnom Penh on Monday.

“What a way to start the indoor sea-

son,” said a rain- and sweat-drenched Obiena, who smashed the 5.46 meters he set in the Vietnam edition of the games last year.

SWS survey: Half, or 14m, Filipino families call selves poor in Q1 ‘23

2023 and 12.9 million in December 2022.

By Julito Rada

also found that 30% of families rated themselves as “borderline” poor and 19% rated themselves as not poor, similar to the figure recorded in December 2022.

“The estimated numbers of Self-Rated Poor families are 14 million in March

To arrive at the estimated numbers of SelfRated Poor families, the percentage of respondent households rating themselves as poor was applied to the Philippine Statistics Authority medium-population projections for 2023 and 2022, respectively,” the SWS survey said. According to the National Economic and Development Authority, families tend to self-rate themselves as poor when the inflation rate, particularly food inflation, is high.

“The SWS survey results for March 2023 reflect that tendency, even as the

THE unemployment rate in March 2023 declined to 4.7 percent from 5.8 percent a year ago and 4.8 percent in February, translating to 2.42 million jobless Filipinos out of 51 million who were in the labor force during the period, the Philippine Statistics Authority said Monday.

The country’s employment rate in March rose to 95.3 percent from the reported employment rate in the same month last year at 94.2 percent and in the previous month at 95.2 percent.

In terms of magnitude, the number of employed persons in March was estimated at 48.58 million, an increase of 1.61 million from the 46.98 million employed persons in March 2022.

The Labor Force Participation

Unemployment rate drops to 4.7% in March

Photo

WEEDING

COPS. Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos is flanked by National Police Commission Vice Chairperson Alberto Bernardo (right) and Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. in a press conference on Monday at DILG-NAPOLCOM Center in Quezon City. Manny Palmero

House pushes bills before break

By Maricel V. Cruz

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Monday rallied fellow lawmakers at the House of Representatives to exert a final concerted push in the remaining four weeks of their session to pass the pending pro-people priority measures of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.

Addressing the plenary during the resumption of the session of the House, Romualdez welcomed back House members, expressing hope they had ample rest during the break, as he outlined the task they have to accomplish before the sine die adjournment of the First Regular Session of the 19th Congress on June 2.

“As we face the remainder of the First

PBBM...

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“The SOM will discuss a number of issues including the priorities of Indonesia’s chairmanship of ASEAN in 2023,” said Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Teuku Faizasyah.

ASEAN Leaders will begin discussions on Wednesday of a number of important issues in order to encourage a stronger ASEAN region in facing challenges, as well as strengthening the bloc’s economic resilience.

These are in line with the theme of the Indonesian chairmanship, “ASEAN Matters: Epicenter of Growth.”

The ASEAN leaders will hold interfaces with the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), the ASEAN Youth Representatives, ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEANBAC), and the High-Level Task Force on the ASEAN Community’s Post2025 Vision.

The ASEAN leaders are also expected to adopt a roadmap on Timor Leste’s full membership in ASEAN.

The Prime Minister of Timor Leste, Taur Matan Ruak, is expected to attend the Summit as an observer for the first time.

Meanwhile, President Marcos will also participate in the 15th Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-MalaysiaPhilippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Summit to be convened on May 11 under the chairmanship of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. With AFP

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capable Shaldag Mark V (Acero-class patrol gunboats in the PN service) will greatly boost the service’s capability to protect the country’s littoral (nearshore) zones.

Also, Ambassador Romualdez said Manila and Washington have ceased discussions on identifying new Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites in the country, as the two sides are now talking on how the nine existing sites will be developed and used.

Department of National Defense officer in charge Carlito Galvez also maintained that the EDCA sites will help the Philippines respond to disasters.

The US is now seeing the Philippines “in a different light” as the Pentagon gave President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. a military honor parade during his recent visit, according to Romualdez.

Mr. Marcos was the first foreign president to be given full military honors by Washington under President Joe Biden’s administration, the ambassador said.

The Philippines and the United States decided to expand cooperation on maritime security through but not limited to joint patrols.

In a fact sheet released by the White House, the US said that under deepening interoperability, the goal is to expand cooperation on maritime security and maritime domain awareness, including through the continued conduct of combined maritime activities, including but not limited to joint patrol.

In March, the Philippine government said it is in the process of crafting guidelines on maritime activities, including joint patrols with allies.

Romualdez also stressed that the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty is now clearer following the meeting between Marcos and US President Joe Biden.

“I think that this time, the Mutual Defense Treaty is not only clear but it also sets what are the parameters on how we will proceed in terms of invoking it,” the Filipino envoy said.

Regular Session, we have merely four weeks to complete our legislative agenda that has been prescribed by no less than our President in his first SONA plus those that have been identified as priority measures in the LEDAC (Legislative Executive Advisory Council),” Romualdez said.

“Later this afternoon (Monday) I will engage with our party leaders to see

how we can make sure that the remainder of these four weeks before we adjourn sine die is used most efficiently and maximized so that we can achieve our goals in making sure that the common legislative agenda, not just of both Houses, but that of the Executive are achieved,” he added.

On Sunday, Romualdez bared that President Marcos approved 11 additional bills, including the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) as part of LEDAC, bringing to 42 from the original 31 the total number of priority administration measures.

The 11 bills include 1. Amending the AFP Fixed Term Bill, which was transmitted to the President; 2. Ease of Paying Taxes, 3. Maharlika Invest-

IN BRIEF

NGCP fears more rotating brownouts

ment Fund, 4. Local Government Unit Income Classification, and 5. Amendment to Universal Health Care Act, which were already sent to the Senate;

6. Bureau of Immigration Modernization and 7.

Infrastructure Development Plan/ Build Build BuildProgram, which is now for committee report preparation;

8. Philippine Salt Industry Development Act; 9. Philippine Ecosystem and Natural Capital Accounting System (PENCAS), 10. National Employment Action Plan, and 11. Amendment to the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act, which is under committee/technical working group (TWG) meeting.

“I implore all of you to continue the hard work that has now become the

PBBM creates new task force for disasters

By Vince Lopez

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has issued an executive order constituting the disaster response and crisis management task force to ensure clear command unity in government efforts to deal with natural disasters through an evidence- and science-based approach to crisis management.

The Disaster Response and Crisis Management Task Force is composed of the Office of the Executive Secretary, Department of National Defense (DND), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Social Welfare and Develop-

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by the DILG, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo added during a public briefing at Camp Crame in Quezon City.

Abalos also noted that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. already declared that he is accepting the courtesy resignation of two generals. The Interior Secretary said the National Police Commission (Napolcom) also issued a resolution to proceed with the pre-charge investigation against two colonels suspected of being so-called “ninja cops.”

“The Napolcom will recommend to the President that he should accept these colonels’ courtesy resignations as well, without prejudice to their administrative liability,” he added.

These measures, Abalos said, were based on the recommendations of the advisory body that looked into the involvement of PNP third-level officers -- from colonels to generals -- in the illegal drug trade.

Meanwhile, PNP Chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. ordered another revamp of senior police officials, two weeks since he was appointed as the country’s top cop.

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labor market conditions have been improving, as shown by recent months of PSA surveys. That is why we have been working hard to address the issues contributing to the price elevation in recent months,” NEDA said in a statement.

“The administration has succeeded in reducing overall inflation in the past three months, as shown also by PSA survey data. We have, however, much more work

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Rate (LFPR) was registered at 66 percent in March 2023, which was higher than the 65.4 percent LFPR in March last year but lower than the 66.6 percent

Obiena...

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Obiena cleared the bar right at his first attempt at 5.20, but the strong wind caused the bar to fall. This forced the official to rule it as a failed attempt, with Obiena protesting he did not touch it.

But it didn’t matter as the 27-year-old Obiena nonchalantly cleared it on his second attempt, and then another one at 5.20, before the strong rains forced organizers to halt the competition. When it resumed after an hour, Obi-

ment (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Office of Civil Defense (OCD).

The EO does not explain how the new task force differs from the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC), which has many of the same member agencies.

Under the EO, which takes effect immediately, the President will designate the task force’s chairperson and vice chairperson from among its members, with the member agencies also desig-

Lt. Gen. Michael John Dubria, chief of the PNP directorial staff, replaced Maj. Gen. Jonnel Estomo as the new deputy chief for operations, the third highest post in the force. Estomo was reassigned to lead the PNP Directorate for Plans, replacing Maj. Gen. Bernard Banac, who will be headed to the Directorate for Information and Communications Technology Management.

Estomo replaces Maj. Gen. Valenciana de Leon, who retired last May 7.

Acorda also named Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Peralta to replace Dubria as the new chief of the directorial staff, the fourth highest position in PNP.

Brid. Gen. Leo Francisco, regional director of the Police Region Office in Western Visayas, took Peralta’s place as the new head of the Directorate of Operations, with the reshuffle taking effect on Monday. Abalos said the administrative cases against these officials, particularly over grave misconduct and grave neglect of duty, will be handled by the Napolcom, since the PNP is directly under its supervision and control.

Napolcom Memorandum Circular 2016-002 provides that it shall have primary jurisdiction over grave administrative cases.

to do as the government targets inflation to return to low levels of 2 to 4 percent by the end of the year,” it added.

The steady percentage in the “self-rated poor” figure nationwide is the result of increases in the National Capital Region and the Visayas, a decline in Balance Luzon (Luzon outside of Metro Manila), and steady numbers in Mindanao, SWS said.

In Metro Manila, families who rated themselves as poor rose from 32% in December to 40%; in the Visayas, the percentage rose from 58% to 65%. It attributed the “steady” nationwide self-

LFPR reported in February 2023. Underemployment rate in March went down to 11.2 percent from 15.8 percent in the same month last year and 12.9 percent in February 2023. This was the lowest unemployment rate reported since April 2005. The reported underemployment rate was equivalent to 5.44 million persons

ena cleared four more heights at 5.4, 5.55, 5.60 and then at 5.65 meters to the wild celebration of a couple of national team members and coaches, and some Filipino supporters at the grandstand.

The no. 3-ranked pole vaulter in the world, with a career best 5.94, said he could have aimed for a higher mark, but was already exhausted from the long wait and the slippery ground and pole. “Man, I’m tired,” said Obiena, who added he is auctioning the shoes he wore in the games, to raise funds for a young Tuguegarao, pole vaulter he saw on social media, teasing his help by

LUZON’S power supply situation could stay critical today (Tuesday) and the risk of possible rotating brownouts remain unless power plants that went on unplanned outage go back online and demand is tempered by lower temperatures, the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines said Monday.

“If power plants on unplanned shutdown on Monday go back online then we won’t need to issue any further grid alerts. Of course, this assumes that no other power plants go on unplanned shutdown,” NGCP spokesman Cynthia Perez-Alabanza said.

Customers of Manila Electric Co. suffered two-hour rotating brownouts on Monday after five power plants went offline and a 230 kilovolt transmission line tripped. Meralco declined to give a supply situation forecast for Tuesday. Alena Mae S. Flores

nating senior officials to act as their representatives to the task force.

The task force’s functions include overseeing and coordinating preparation, monitoring and evaluation of disaster risk management (DRRM) plans and programs on disaster preparedness and response, as well as providing leadership in developing approaches to disaster prevention, mitigation and response.

It is also tasked to collaborate with relevant government agencies and local governments, ensure an integrated approach in disaster preparedness and response, and deliver accessible assistance programs to affected communities.

“For clarity, acceptance of resignation is without prejudice to any administrative cases against these officers, and will not release them from any liability,” Abalos said.

The members of the advisory body are retired police general and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, Office of the Presidential Adviser on Military Affairs Undersecretary Isagani Nerez, former Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, retired Court of Appeals Justice Melchor Sadang, and retired PNP chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr.

Abalos said that on April 24, Azurin filed a complaint affidavit with Napolcom against two generals, for grave misconduct and grave neglect of duty, among others.

The penalty for these offenses is dismissal, forfeiture of benefits, and perpetual disqualification from any public office.

Abalos said they will name the implicated officials after two to three weeks after the conduct of the pre-charge investigation and once administrative charges are filed against them.

On their possible criminal liability, the Interior Secretary said it will be handled by the Deputy Ombudsman for Military and Other Law Enforcement Offices (MOLEO).

rated poor figure between December 2022 and March 2023 to the “increases in Metro Manila and the Visayas, combined with a decline in Balance Luzon, or Luzon outside Metro Manila) and a steady score in Mindanao.”

“Compared to December 2022, selfrated poor rose in Metro Manila from 32 percent to 40 percent and in the Visayas from 58 percent to 65 percent. However, it fell in Balance Luzon from 49 percent to 43 percent, while it was statistically steady in Mindanao, moving from 59 percent to 62 percent,” SWS said.

who expressed the desire to have additional hours of work in their present job or to have additional job, or to have a new job with long hours of work.

The average weekly hours worked by an employed person in March 2023 was estimated at 40 hours per week. This was slightly lower than the average

claiming “idol, baka naman.”

Thailand’s Kasinpob Chomchanad and Patsapong Amsamarng ended up with the silver and bronze after the two leaped to identical 5.20 meters, with the former doing it in lesser tries.

Meanwhile, Kristina Knott failed to regain her 200-meter crown she won during the 2019 edition of the games when she placed fourth in the finals, clocking in at 23.79 seconds.

Singapore’s Veronica Pereira retained her crown as she timed 22.69 seconds, followed by Vietnam’s Thi Nhi Yen Tran (23.54 seconds) and

Hotels still support continued mask use HOTEL operators and retailers on Monday said they support the continued use of face masks, especially indoors as a way to deflect the rising cases of COVID-19 infections and to keep the public safe.

In a briefing for the upcoming Philippines Furniture Furnishings Market (PFFM) trade fair in July, members of the The Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP), the Philippine Hotel Owners Association (PHOA), and the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) agreed that people should continue to wear masks even though the World Health Organization has declared the end of the global health emergency over COVID-19.

“The mask is a very important part of our future. [The] Japan[ese] continue to wear face masks as a sign of courtesy, and it also helps to keep COVID in check,” said HRAP president Eugene Yap. Othel V. Campos

Remulla:...

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suspects and more than 20 victims,” Remulla explained.

The Justice Secretary expressed hope that the criminal complaints against Teves will be filed within this week before the Department of Justice, in connection with the killings in Pamplona town in Negros Oriental.

“We’re looking at this week to finish it,” Remulla said, as he admitted that he met on Monday afternoon with one of the prosecutors involved in the investigation of the murder cases.

“They just want to firm up everything before they file the cases against Cong. Teves,” he said.

The DOJ has already filed charges against six arrested suspects for nine counts of murder as well as multiple counts of frustrated murder and serious physical injuries.

It was reported that one of those who were shot and hurt during the incident, Fredilino Cafe Jr., recently passed away, raising the total number of fatalities to 10. With this development, Remulla said prosecutors will seek before the court the amendment of the charges already filed.

“They will just file a manifestation, the prosecutors, that one of the victims who was a complainant for frustrated murder had passed away, converting this case to a murder case,” he stressed.

weekly hours worked in March 2022 at 40.6 hours but higher than the estimate in February 2023 of 39.5 hours.

Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the government is addressing persistent issues and constraints to improving labor productivity and high-quality job generation.

Malaysia’s Zaidatul Husniah Zulkifli (23.60 seconds).

Knott emerged the darling of athletics during the 2019 games when she helped the 4x100 mixed relay team to the gold and won the 200-meters with a new record, but missed the Vietnam meet last year due to plantar fasciitis in her left foot.

“I just ran healthy and I still have two more runs to go,” the Tokyo Olympian told reporters. “At least I have a day and a half to recover because the [women’s] 4x100 relay is still on Wednesday so I’ll be ready by that time.”

Makati opens med center for 24/7 services

By Joel E. Zurbano

MAYOR Abigail

Binay on Monday led the opening of Makati Life Medical Center in Barangay Bel-Air to provide Yellow Card holders access to round-the-clock healthcare, consultations, diagnostic, and pharmacy services.

“Today marks a great milestone for the people of Makati, especially our senior citizens, as now they have access to quality primary care services 24/7. It took several years to complete, but we delivered on our promise to give Makatizens a bigger and more accessible hospital where they can receive medical attention whenever they need it,” Binay said.

The hospital is more accessible to residents of the city’s 1st district. It is also convenient for City Hall employees and senior citizens who have difficulty commuting to the city-run Ospital ng Makati (OsMak).

Since it is open 24/7, the facility can better serve the medical needs of residents and provide timely care for patients who require more specialized services in a tertiary hospital. Makati Life is a partnership between LifeNurture Incorporated and the City Government of Makati. It is the country’s most significant public-private partnership hospital to date. City Ordinance No. 2021-021 authorized Mayor Binay to sign a PPP agreement with LifeNurture Inc. for the hospital’s construction, operation, and management.

The city chief executive said Makati Life Medical Center is “a testament to the city’s commitment to providing excellent health care that is accessible, affordable, and of the highest medical standards.”

She assured residents that although Makati Life accepts private individuals, their healthcare services are still accessible to Yellow Card holders, including the city’s senior citizens and City Hall employees.

IN BRIEF

Sandigan finds another Ampatuan guilty of graft

THE Sandiganbayan has found another member of the Ampatuan clan guilty of graft and malversation of public funds and sentenced him to imprisonment of up to 18 years.

Convicted with former Maguindanao governor Datu Sajid Islam U. Ampatuan was his provincial budget officer at the time Datu Ali Kanakan Abpi Al Haj. (‘Al Haj’ appended to Abpi’s name means he has gone on a pilgrimage to Mecca.)

Ampatuan is the sitting vice mayor of Shariff Saydona town.

In addition to the prison terms, the two were ordered to return P16,317,559 or the amount that the two mishandled in the purchase of food supplies in 2009.

Maricel V. Cruz

LTFRB transfers all documents to BARMM

THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has officially transferred all responsibilities, assets, and documents from its Regional Franchising and Regulatory Office XII to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao’s LTFRB.

LTFRB chair Teofilo Guadiz III presided over the turnover of digital copies of franchise documents for routes under the jurisdiction of BARMM.

Among the attendees were LTFRB

Board Member Atty. Mercy Jane ParasLeynes, LTFRB Executive Director Atty. Robert Peig, LTFRB Region XII Regional Director Paterno Reynato Padua, and Atty. Paisalin Tago, Minister of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications.

Rio N. Araja

Bataan LGU passes resolution to thank PBBM

THE local government of Bataan passed a resolution at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) thanking President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the two Philippine Rural Development Program (PRDP) project grants given to the province, Vice Governor Cris Garcia said.

“Nagpasa kami ng resolution sa SP ng pagpapasalamat kay Pangulong Bongbong Marcos sa pagkakatanggap ng ating lalawigan ng dalawang PRDP project grant,” Garcia said during the recent ground breaking ceremony of the P180 million Orani Fish Landing and Post Trading project funded under PRDP. SP secretary Mark Quezon said the other PRDP project is the P90 million Nazarenoi Culis Farm-To-Market Road in Hermosa town. The road is seen to boost mango production in the area.

Butch Gunio

VAX DRIVE. Manila Health Department (MHD) workers conduct a house-to-house vaccination drive for residents of Delpan in Binondo on Monday. Children were also vaccinated against measles, rubella, and polio. Norman Cruz

BFAR says Oriental Mindoro LGU may allow fishing to resume

THE Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said the provincial government of Oriental Mindoro may consider ordering the resumption of fishing activities in seven municipalities affected by a recent oil spill.

“The fishing waters in Clusters 4 (Bongabong, Roxas, Mansalay, Bulalacao) and 5 (Puerto Galera, Baco, San Teodoro) were found to be within acceptable standards for fishing activities.

The provincial government of Mindoro

may consider the resumption of fishing activities in the said municipalities,” a BFAR statement, quoted by GMA News, said.

Meanwhile, it still recommended keeping the fishing ban in Calapan, Naujan, Pola, Pinamalayan, Gloria, and Bansud due to the risk of contamination from traces of oil that have yet to be removed from the area, GMA News reported.

BFAR said traces of oil were ob -

served during onsite monitoring of sea surface in Pola, Pinamalayan, Gloria, and Bansud during sampling and added that water samples collected last April 24 showed that oil and grease remained in affected areas but these are still within the standard (3.0 mg/L) set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for Class SC waters or Fishery Water Class and Recreational Water Class that are suited for boating and fish-

PRC returns to Bohol to give shelter units to disaster victims

THE Philippine Red Cross (PRC) returned to Bohol and turned over full shelter units to numerous affected families in the province.

Bohol was among the provinces severely hit by Super Typhoon Odette (international name: Rai), which made landfall in December 2021.

The PRC provided extensive relief assistance to numerous affected municipalities of Bohol in the initial months and then assisted the province in its gradual transition to the recovery phase.

“Kaagapay ng ating mga kakabayang apektado ng Odette ang Philippine Red Cross. Habang nanalasa ang bagyong

Odette, ang ating mga volunteers at staff ay tumutulong sa page-evacuate ng mga na-stranded. Sa mga evacuation center ay namahagi naman tayo ng hot meals at tubig. Matapos ang ilang buwan ay nagsimula ang shelter assistance projects ng PRC,” PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon said.

PRC’s WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) Unit hastened the provision of water supply to communities with no access to safe water, distributing 2, 974, 500 liters of water to 175, 509 individuals. In addition to food assistance such as hot meals and bread, the PRC likewise provided psychological support to af-

Fire hydrant inspection in Angeles City

By Macon Ramos Araneta

PRIMEWATER Infrastructure Corp. and Angeles City Water District (ACWD) together with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) conducted a regular fire hydrant inspection in Angeles City to ensure the prevention of fire incidents this dry season. The group inspected various fire hydrants across Angeles City Pampanga as part of their regular checking, cleaning, and maintenance. Some of the areas covered in the inspection were the fire hydrant installations at Lourdes North West and Sto. Rosario in the city. The partnership of PrimeWater and

ACWD is currently maintaining 225 fire hydrants in Angeles City that will be used for quick response during fire incidents to save lives and mitigate property damage.

Fire hydrants that are being maintained are those installed in Barangays Capaya, Cutud, Pampang, Pulung Cacutud, Sto. Cristo, Mining, Lourdes Northwest, Tabun, Anunas, Cut-cut, Pandan, Pulung Maragul, Sto. Domingo, San Jose, Cuayan, San Nicolas, Sapangbato, Pulong Bulo, Sapalibutad, Agapito Del Rosario, Ninoy Aquino, Sto. Rosario, Lourdes Sur, Lourdes Sur East, Claro M. Recto, Salapungan, Sta. Teresita, Virgen Delos Remedios, Margot, and Sta. Trinidad.

fected adults and children, assisting the affected families in coping with and outliving the trauma of displacement.

The PRC increased the COVID-19 vaccine adherence and uptakes in the province, dispensed medicines, and conducted health promotion to 7, 203 affected individuals, which helped prevent the transmission of contagious diseases in evacuation centers and affected areas.

The PRC, through the support of its partners and donors, also distributed I,252 pieces of tarpaulin, 934 mosquito nets, 934 blankets, 934 plastic mats, and 492 kitchen sets to address the other basic necessities of affected families.

ing activities, as well as fish propagation intended for commercial and sustenance purposes.

The BFAR also said that polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), on the other hand, were no longer detected in most of the fish samples collected last April 17, except for pelagic fish samples from Pinamalayan, Gloria, Bansud, Bongabong, Roxas, Mansalay, Bulalacao, Puerto Galera, Baco, and San Teodoro, GMA News reported.

Group urges LGUs to look into tech to improve services

AN advocacy group championing consumer rights has called on local governments to encourage their constituents at the grassroots to shift to cashless transactions, saying the benefits of digital technology must be felt by all.

“The use of technology should be extended to market vendors, community shopkeepers, tricycle operators and drivers, farmers, and small merchants,” said lawyer Christopher “Kit” Belmonte, coconvenor of CitizenWatch Philippines.

“Convenience is just one thing. Aside from this, the adoption of cashless payments like GCash would open up to other financial services like loans, savings, investments, and others.”

According to Belmonte, there is a significant amount of economic activity going on in markets, in public transportation, and in the fields.

“These are still mostly cash-based, but we believe they will shift to cashless once they see the benefits and, more importantly, once they are shown how,” he said.

Belmonte is urging local executives to work with the Bangko Sentral and the Department of the Interior and Local Government as it rolls out Paleng-QR Ph Plus, which aims to promote cashless payments in public markets and local transportation particularly tricycles across the country.

Paleng-QR was inspired by student policy competition finalists from the University of the Philippines-Los Baños in 2021.

The program targets to occasion change in markets and public transport, because these are basic components of an average Filipino’s typical payment pattern, said the Bangko Sentral on its website.

EU COLORS. Members of the European Union (EU) delegation view the vibrant blue and yellow colors of the EU flag at the Jose Rizal Monument and the musical dancing fountain inside the Luneta in Manila as part of ’EU Day’ celebrations on Sunday. Norman Cruz

‘STOP RED TAPE.’ Newly-appointed Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority(SBMA) chairman and administrator Jonathan Dioso Tan speaks in front of employees and urged workers to stop‘red tape’ to help business locators and attract more investments in the SBMA. Joseph Muego

Civic Journalism Community Press Awards unveiled

THE Philippine Press Institute (PPI), the national association of newspapers in the country, held its annual National Press Forum with the theme: “Midya at Pandemya: Taking Charge of Journalism Post-Pandemic” as well as the 2022 Civic Journalism Community Press Awards at the Citadines Bay City Manila from April 24 to 25.

The winners of this season’s community press awards, funded by Nickel Asia Corporation (NAC), are as follows:

For the daily category: SunStar Davao – Best in Photojournalism and Best Edited Community Newspaper; SunStar Cebu – Best in Environmental Reporting and Best in Business and Economic Reporting; and Freeman – Best Editorial Page.

For the weekly category: Baguio Chronicle – Best in Reporting on Migration Issues, Best Editorial Page and Best Edited Community Newspaper; and Luzonwide News Correspondent for Best in Environmental Reporting.

Manila Standard publisher Rolando G. Estabillo, who was re-elected PPI chairman, noted how community newspapers have been hit hard by the economic decline triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“But the pandemic also accelerated and pushed journalists and news outlets to adopt digital technology. The shift in the media world has brought about new challenges, restrictions and innovative story-telling approaches,” he said.

“Technology and social trends are driving changes in how and where news is created and consumed. These changes have had an impact on the way journalists operate, namely enabling them to work alone or remotely and become independent content creators. The norm in reporting is sharp social media and digital skills,” he added.

Women solons stage fundraiser with gold in art

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE Association of Women Legislators Foundation, Inc. (AWLFI), chaired by Tingog Party-list Rep. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez, is holding a three-day fundraising art exhibition featuring gold art paintings by internationally renowned South Korean artist Kim IL Tae.

The exhibition at the north wing lobby of the House of Representatives at the Batasan complex in Quezon City starts today. It is dubbed, “Korea Presents Gold Art Paintings in the Philippines.”

The AWLFI is hosting it jointly with HAEJU Investments.

Officials and members of the association led by chairperson Rep. Romualdez and its president, Bulacan Rep. Linabelle Ruth Villarica, and other officials attended the opening of the exhibition Monday afternoon.

In a message to his House colleagues and their guests read by House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City Rep. ManuelJose Dalipe, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez said his chamber “has always been a champion of the arts at the policy level, understanding the quality of the craft to uplift society.”

“Many House members are themselves patrons of art in all its forms. Today, we are privileged to host a truly a one-of-akind form of visual art: paintings using gold as the medium,” he said.

“Rare and beautiful paintings are by themselves already valuable. That the paintings we host today are done in gold make these works of art even more precious. However, I daresay that the true value of these paintings comes from the fact that these paintings are displayed and offered for a charitable cause,” he said.

Senate shelves sugar probe as key gov’t officials abroad

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SEN. Francis Tolentino deferred yesterday’s hearing in the Senate on the so-called sugar importation fiasco due to the absence of Department of Agriculture officer in charge Domingo Panganiban and other officials who were on official business trips abroad.

Aside from Panganiban, National Economic Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual, and former Sugar Regulatory Administration chief David John Alba were no-shows at the hearing.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, who was physically present at the hearing to represent the Office of the President, explained that Panganiban is currently in Washington DC for an official mission and

will be out of the country until May 13. Balisacan is currently in Vancouver, Canada until May 11, while Pascual is in Indonesia to attend a ministerial level conference until May 11, he added. Alba is in Australia until June for personal reasons and could not attend the hearing, Tolentino revealed.

Since they are considered “vital to the investigation,” Tolentino opted to set the hearing to another date. “We might have a

IN BRIEF

DOJ probes 12 over human trafficking

hard time if we were to continue without them,” he noted.

Meanwhile, three sugar importers who brought in the commodities under Sugar Order No. 6 early this year, the subject of the deferred Senate hearing, were chosen from a list recommended by two large sugar farmers’ groups, documents showed.

The Luzon Federation of Sugarcane Growers Association (LUZONFED) and United Sugar Producers’ Federation of the Philippines, Inc. (UNIFED) made the recommendation through a Joint Board Resolution dated August 1, 2022.

In the resolution, the two groups recommended seven traders for the importation of additional sugar to boost local supply based on their track records of directly buying from local farmers and millers.

DENR eyes large mining firms as ‘big brothers’

By Rio N. Araja

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources wants large mining companies to act as “big brothers” to small-scale miners through their Social Development and Management Programs (SDMP) as mandated under law.

Secretary Antonia Loyzaga said it is high time for big mining firms to help small-scale miners meet their social

development targets by setting aside a portion of their social development fund for such purpose.

“There must be a way to negotiate the resilience of communities where mining is happening, the social development needs to happen. This way inclusivity in terms of the progress of the community as a whole can really be institutionalized,” she cited.

She described the big-brother small-

brother strategy as one that would include capacitating small miners and enhancing the resilience of mining communities.

To make this happen, Loyzaga said there is a need to revisit the social development funding of large mining companies.

“In this government, you cannot move forward with your for-profit agenda without a national dividend that redounds to a local community. And that’s the bottom line,” she said.

Back MIF, House minority leader tells Senate

HOUSE Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan on Monday appealed to the Senate leadership to support the proposed Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF).

Libanan of 4Ps party-list group issued the statement after Speaker Martin Romualdez announced on Sunday that President Marcos had included the proposed MIF under the bills in LegislativeExecutive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) list, making it a priority measure for the administration.

Libanan said the designation of MIF under LEDAC could be the President’s was way of telling senators to give priority to passing the measure.

“We prioritized this in the House because it is very important to our country. [We hope] the Senate deliberates and decides on it quickly,” Liba -

nan told reporters. He said the House of Representatives -“without hearing any instruction from the Palace” -- fulfilled its legislative mandate to act on the measure, approving d its version of the MIF in December 2022.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had declared the Maharlika Investment Fund bill as one of 11 priority administration measures, Speaker Romualdez said on Sunday.

This was also confirmed by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri who said the Maharlika Fund as well as measures pushing for minimum wage hike top the Senate agenda as the Congress session resumed Monday.

Romualdez said the 11 measures are now part of the bills adopted by the LEDAC, bringing to 42 the total number of priority measures. Maricel V. Cruz

THE Department of Justice will conduct a preliminary investigation into the human trafficking charges filed against 12 individuals involved in the trafficking of more than 1000 Filipinos and foreign nationals into the country and then force them to run various illegal online schemes.

This came after the Philippine National Police- Anti Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) has filed before the DOJ criminal complaints against the respondents, mostly Chinese nationals, for human trafficking, violation of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, serious illegal detention and violation of immigration laws.

The DOJ said the complaint was filed last Saturday and the accused, mostly Chinese nationals, opted to avail of a preliminary investigation by signing a waiver of any objection against their delivery to the proper judicial authorities under Article 125 of the Revised Penal Code.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispino Remulla said those charged also include Indonesian nationals.

The respondents were brought by PNP-ACG to the DOJ for inquest proceedings along with several victimwitnesses. Rey E. Requejo

LTO launching digital driver’s license via app

THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) is set to launch a digital driver’s license that will serve as alternative to the physical card.

LTO chief Jay Art Tugade said the electronic version of a driver’s license can be accessed through a “super app” developed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

“The advantage of the digital license is that motorists can present it to law enforcement officers during apprehension. It is equivalent to presenting the physical driver’s license,” Tugade said in a news release issued Monday. It did not say exactly when the digital version would be made available and implemented.

GSIS: P814m allotted for four Davao areas

STATE pension fund Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) is offering emergency loan to active members, and old-age and disability pensioners working or residing in the provinces of Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro; and the municipalities of Caraga and Governor Generoso in Davao Oriental.

“Naglaan kami ng halos P814 million para sa 36,155 active members and 4,539 pensioners sa mga nasabing lugar na naapektuhan ng mga kalamidad tulad ng pagbaha at lindol. Bukas ang loan application hanggang May 27,” GSIS President and General Manager Wick Veloso said.

To qualify, active members must be residing or working in the calamity areas; not be on leave of absence without pay; have no pending administrative or criminal case; have at least three monthly premium payments within the last six months prior to application; have no due and demandable loan; and have a net takehome pay not lower than the amount required under the General Appropriations Act after all monthly obligations have been deducted.

Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva talks to residents of Mansalay town in Oriental Mindoro on

and led the distribution of financial assistance and food packs to 1,250 residents there. The residents thanked Villanueva, who was the first Senator to visit their town, for his effort to aid those severely affected by the oil spill. With him are Oriental Mindoro

Rep. Boy Umali and Mansalay Mayor Ferdinand Maliwanag.

SHIPS. Senate President Juan Miguel F. Zubiri and Vice Admiral Flag Officer In Command Toribio Adaci Jr. of the Philippine Navy witness the christening of two Fast Attack Interdiction Crafts Missile (FAIC-M), BRP Gener Tinangag (PG903) and BRP Domingo Deluna (PG905), as well as the Naval Shipbuilding Center on Monday at Naval Station Pascual Ledesma in Fort San Felipe, Cavite City. Danny Pata

Will China stop bullying Philippines?

administrative charges before Napolcom for alleged violation of PNP rules and regulations for involvement in illegal drug activities.

Aside from Azurin, the other members of the panel were Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, former Defense Secretary Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro, retired police General Isagani Nerez and Court of Appeals Associate Justice Melchor Sadang.

With this act of cleansing the police of scalawags,

WITH all that happened during the five-day official visit of President Marcos Jr. to Washington and his bilateral face-to-face meeting at the White House with US President Biden, and the statement of the latter that “there is no better partner of the US than the Philippines,” I would consider that Marcos Jr. had a resounding visit.

On the security and defense aspect of the Marcos visit, the US once again reiterated its “ironclad” commitment to defend the Philippines in case of invasion.

Insofar as China is concerned, Biden supported the Hague Arbitral Court ruling.

The Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement with the additional EDCA sites is proof of that commitment, Santa Banana.

The US also committed more planes and more military weapons to the Philippines.

My gulay, the fact that the US Vice President Kamala Harris and the Pentagon promised more military aid to the Philippines is proof of all these.

On the economic aspect of BBM’s five-day visit, once again American trade and investors also committed additional investment amounting to P1.3 B in investment pledges, like the joint venture of Filipino tycoon Ricky Razon with a nuclear power plant builder to put up smaller nuclear power plants in the country.

This, aside from Washington’s assistance to agriculture and other commitments, Santa Banana!

The problem, however, is the assertiveness of China in the West Philippine Sea.

For instance, will China ever stop bullying the country in the West Philippine Sea? Will China ever stop harassing Filipino fishermen also in the West Philippine Sea?

China’s plans to invade Taiwan with its claim that Taiwan is a province of China puts at risk the 40,000 Filipino OFWs in Taiwan.

My gulay, will China ever believe the additional EDCA sites, especially those nearest to Taiwan, are all for defense and shouldn’t be looked at as for offense?

There are also plans for the US ships to join Philippine Coast Guard vessels in joint patrols in the South China Sea?

And speaking of assertiveness in disputed waters, and despite all the hundreds of protests we have filed against China, does China care?

It would appear it doesn’t and will not.

That to me is the bigger problem.

And all we can rely on is the assurance of the “ironclad” commitment of Washington of its promise to protect the Philippines, Santa Banana! ***

Cleansing the PNP

At long last, we are now seeing the cleansing of the Philippine National Police.

Four ranking police officials have finally been recommended to be removed from the PNP due to alleged involvement in illegal drug activities.

The five-man advisory panel headed by retired Police Chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. recommended the acceptance of the courtesy resignation of the thirdlevel officials, including two one-star generals and two colonels.

The four were among the 953 third-level officers evaluated by the panel after their courtesy resignations.

On the other hand, the panel cleared 917, while it submitted and endorsed the suspension to President Marcos Jr. of 32 officials.

Since Napolcom has yet to resolve their administrative cases filed against them, they remain anonymous. President Marcos Jr, as the country’s top cop, has in fact already accepted the resignation of the two generals, having judged the merits of their cases.

The four names have one thing in common. They were once assigned at the PNP Drug Enforcement Group . The panel also endorsed the filing of

By Victor Caballero

LONG before the Occidental Mindoro electric predicament surfaced in the media, the horrors of Northern Davao Electric Cooperative’s (NORDECO) incompetent service in Northern Davao have been inflicting daily damage to its clients for years.

I’m not an expert on laws and the procedures in making them.

What I have is mere understanding of it.

I know and understand the plight of a client served with terrible and repeated lackluster service.

I’ve read media articles featuring sentiments of clients’ dire situations and burdens of incompetent service.

NORDECO clients’ plea are easy to understand and easier to empathize with.

The brownouts I experienced these past few years were few, yet I could say they were traumatic. The heat, the inability to fully and productively function, were results of such electricity absence.

Feeling the heat?

it is hoped the faith and confidence of the people in the PNP as the guardian of the people’s safety and for peace and order will once again be restored.

As far as I am concerned, the restoration of the people’s confidence and faith in the police may take some time, however.

Let’s just say that it’s only the beginning. ***

Press Freedom

The observance of the World Press Freedom Day had ranked the Philippines as among the worst places for journalists, citing numerous killings. While I believe it’s partly true there have been killings of journalists in the country, observers should separate those that were killed because of their reports as journalists and journalists who were killed because of personal reasons, especially in the province.

What I say is that journalism is not a profession for those who are afraid to tell the facts and the truth when they write news.

As a columnist for many decades, I say it is also the responsibility of journalists, especially columnists, to hold people accountable for their actions.

In doing so, journalists must be fair and report balanced news for the sake of truth and justice.

I say groups like the UN should not just lump Filipino journalists into two groups -- journalists against those in power and those who are not.

That’s the mistake of the Western Press -- if you are for those in power, you lose your freedom as a journalist, and if you are against them, you are a hero.

Santa Banana, this observation is short-sighted. Press freedom can’t be just one way. If a journalist tends to support those in power, he is also free. It does not mean that a journalist is suppressed and curtailed.

The only time, to me, in the Philippines when the press was not free was during Martial Law when media outlets were closed, but soon enough freedom was restored.

(Editor’s Note: In the early months of Martial Law in 1972, the so-called Big Four – Reuters, AP, UPI and Agence France-Presse – and other foreignbased news organizations with correspondents then in the Philippines had their reports read by the government’s press censor, but otherwise they had the freedom to report on the Philippines).

What I can say about freedom of the press is when media owners -- print, radio and television -- do not pay their media workers, particularly journalists, what they deserve, since journalists are in pursuit of facts and the truth and expose themselves day and night to danger.

Low pay and the non-payment of perks and benefits due to media workers expose the press to corruption.

The low pay and corruption besides the killing of journalists are the greatest danger to press freedom.

I would say with all the dangers that journalists in the Philippines are faced with, we journalists should be highly paid.

But, sadly, we are not. That too curtails press freedom.

***

Masks Should Be Mandatory

I am surprised that with the present surge in COVID-19 cases, the President and the Department of Health have not made the wearing of face masks mandatory, not only in enclosed places, but everywhere.

The latest Omicron sub-variant -- the XBB.1.16 Arcturus – is highly contagious and easily passed from one person to another.

And masking is the best way to stop the surge and uptick.

I, for one, always wear a mask outside our house and whenever an outsider comes to the house.

I may be accused of being extra-careful, but at my age, I cannot be too careful.

THIS month, the hottest during the year with an average temperature of 30 degrees Celsius or 86 degrees Fahrenheit, is literally exhaling heat index flashes on at least 15 areas in this basically agricultural economy.

Instance, only the other day, Dipolog in Zamboanga del Norte experienced 45 degrees Celsius, followed by Daet., Camarines Norte, Legazpi City in Albay, Zamboanga City in Zamboanga del Sur at 44 degrees Celsius. Others – like Aparri, Cagayan, Iba, Zambales, Infanta Quezon, Masbate City and Roxas City, Capiz – recorded 43 degrees Celsius. Catarman, Northern Samar, Dagupan City, Laoag City, Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City, San Jose in Occidental Mindoro, and Sinait, Ilocos Sur all registered 42 degrees Celsius.

What does this mean?

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) says heat indices between 42 degrees Celsius and 51 degrees Celsius carry impending “danger” as “heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely” and “heat stroke is probable with continued activity.”

We must understand our climate is tropical and maritime, characterized by

Experts are agreed that El Niño’s impact can be felt in agriculture, marine resources, the environment, and health

relatively high temperature, high humidity and abundant rainfall, similar in many respects to the climate of Central American countries.

With many beasts of burden to help Filipino farmers in their terraced lands, we should understand as well that heat stress affects animals both directly and indirectly.

Over time, heat stress can increase vulnerability to disease, reduce fertility, and reduce milk production. Fact is, climate experts say drought may threaten pasture and feed supplies and reduces the amount

of quality forage available to grazing livestock.

Then there is this El Niño appearing on the country’s weather screen, with PAGASA saying it “will likely develop in July-August-September 2023 season and may persist until 2024.”

El Niño increases the likelihood of below-normal rainfall conditions, which could lead to dry spells and droughts in some areas of the Philippines, and the likelihood is high that agricultural products north and south of the capital will be at peril.

What does this mean? What are the effects of El Niño? It will bring warmer temperatures, fewer clouds, and belownormal rainfall, the dry season will be extended and rainy season will be delayed, and fewer tropical cyclones in the Philippines to bless the parched land. Experts are agreed that El Niño’s impact can be felt in agriculture, marine resources, the environment, and health as it could lead to a decline in crop production, reduced water supply, fish kills and red tides, less water for sanitation, possible increase in tropical diseases due to drier conditions, possible increase in food-borne diseases due to high temperatures, poor air quality, just to mention a few. Meanwhile, the heat index appears to be running riot.

The contributions of Oscar M. Lopez

communities.

“We, the Lopez Family, dedicate our businesses to the service of the Filipino people. We do so, with seven core Lopez values in mind: a pioneering entrepreneurial spirit; business excellence, unity; nationalism; social justice, integrity, and concern for employee welfare and wellness.”

OSCAR M. Lopez (OML), patriarch of the Lopez business empire, an advocate of social justice, and an environmental advocate passed away peacefully on April 22, 2023. He was 93 years old.

I honor the man and his contibutions.

As a climate and environmental justice advocate and as an educator, OML was a strong ally and supporter. We had many common advocacies—for example a passion for forests, mountains, biological diversity, which in turn engenders a moral imperative for their protection and the commitment to address climate change decisively, by supporting work that enhance resilience of our communities and steering the Lopez group away from coal to renewable energy.

I am glad a person of OML’s wealth and stature was on our side. Sustainability was not just a matter of corporate social responsibility for Mr. Lopez and his successors.

I have had the pleasure of reviewing the sustainability record and performance of their companies, as they report it through sustainability reports, and I can say that sustainability is a real thing for them and there is no greenwashing in their reporting.

When conferred an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humanities, Honoris Causa, by the Ateneo de Manila University in 2010, Mr. Lopez acknowledged:

“Today, at the young old age of 80, I have ceded the day-to-day running of the Lopez businesses to my brother, Manolo, and to the next generation of Lopezes.

“I stay on as Chairman Emeritus of our major companies, and, in that capacity, I serve principally as custodian of the Lopez values, values that we largely inherited from my father, values by which we demand that our businesses be managed and conducted.

In the speech of Federico “Piki” Lopez, delivered on his father’s 85th birthday. the younger Lopez, chairman, and CEO of First Philippine Holdings, talked about growing up around his father, having a great appreciation for music and books, and being close to nature.

Piki also talked about the one great lesson about money and wealth he learned from his father: “that wealth can empower you to do great things, but it also carried great

Through these all Lopez leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and service that will continue to inspire others, and not just his family but Filipinos like me for generations to come

responsibilities, and he never believed that our happiness should ever have to revolve around its ephemeral trappings.”

And this is why after the family lost everything during Martial Law, they never lost their “sense of purpose and meaning.”

Piki concluded by quoting Benjamin Disraeli, stating his father leaves behind a legacy of a great name and a great example.

A major and lasting contribution of the Lopez patriarch is the establishment of the Oscar M. Lopez Center in 2012.

This organization with tagline Science for Climate Resilient Communities was envisioned as an institution that would support the generation of the science and technology needed for building resilient

A will and way to simplify electric service

NORDECO’s clients are experiencing brownouts to as many as five times a day, horribly for years already.

And they’re paying higher rates compared to neighboring provinces served by other electric distribution units.

That’s unbearable.

Asking clients to get used to it is ridiculous.

As a consumer, technical explanations are tales I don’t need to understand.

My business is simply be served, and diligently pay for it.

There aren’t many options for supply source so those supply lines traversing along my house are such.

If only those street poles carry several electricity supply lines from different distribution units, then consumers like me can simply switch to the more competent provider.

That’s how it is for telephone and cable service. Service providers entice us with better services.

What

As paying consumers, we get to choose the better one.

Sadly, for my fellow consumers in Northern Davao, the street poles, as how they are almost everywhere, carry only NORDECO’s unreliable supply.

Through the years, the provider’s excuses for their enduring incompetence are jargons of technical tales.

Putting myself into the shoes of Northern Davao folks, I simply don’t care and not

expected to understand.

Competent distribution units will certainly will it and find ways immediately to satisfy the clients, especially NORDECO’s consumers who pay much higher rates.

I understand the recent rallies by the people of Northern Davao.

LGU officials, consumer organization, citizens -- all are NORDECO’s clients -expressing their years of suffering.

You can’t blame their outcry and appeal for change. Their patience must have run out.

Mindoro energy woes have been solved temporarily according to the government. In the recent brownouts in Region 6, PBBM stepped in to help solve the problem. What about Northern Davao’s NORDECO dilemma, when will that be solved?

The technical explanations from NORDECO even got reinforcement from their accordingly Constitutional right to continue their incompetent service.

My shallow mind is revolting with the

In a 2012 speech in the University of Philippines which also awarded him an honorary degree, Lopez explains the rationale for creating the OML Center: “The current level of research on the environment is absolutely minuscule relative to what is occurring. Comparing the published papers of the country’s top universities in the past year to those of the University of Singapore, there is need to level up the research capabilities in the country.”

Today, the OML Center strives to realize this goal by making sure relevant climate science cuts across sectors, rather than sitting unused on a bookshelf.

According to its mission: “We aim to work closely with the decision-makers of business and policy, the groups with the greatest capacity for sustained climate action.

“We give them the information and the tools they need to make climate-smart risk management decisions. The Center is built on the belief that no Filipino should face climate challenges unprepared.

“In arming them with up-to-date science and technology, we believe climate crises can be averted.”

In that same speech, as reported by Rappler, Mr. Lopez reflected on his life: “In this race of life, in the final analysis, there will really be no winners and losers, but only those who reach the finish line and those who do not finish.

“Run on your own capabilities, your own cadence. Pace yourself, push yourself beyond the comfort zone. . . . I will let you in a secret: As I ran my own race of life, what I saw along the way and who I came to know along the way constantly changed what I defined to be my finish line.”

Like most, Oscar M. Lopez experienced the ebb and flow of life; its high tide and low tide, he was pivotal in rebuilding the Lopez business empire after a long exile abroad.

Through the decades, the Filipino people witnessed the Lopez empire’s rise and fall.

But through these all he leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and service that will continue to inspire others, and not just his family but Filipinos like me for generations to come.

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

idea that my fellow consumers were told to suffer continuing incompetence because it’s in the law.

I am not capable to debate about Constitutionality or the law.

But I firmly believe laws are for the good and welfare of the people.

I leave it to the experts in the national legislature to have the will and find a way to uphold what laws are made for.

Congress has resumed session this week.

My elected representative is there to take care of legislative technicalities.

I need not be burdened with how things are done in those legislative halls.

What matters to me and certainly to the burdened NORDECO consumers is the simple bottom line: make the laws truly work for our welfare.

In the Senate, Energy Committee Chairman Senator Raffy Tulfo will live up as “idol,” as he is endearingly referred to, for the Northern Davao folks if he wills and makes way to resolve the incompetent electric service of NORDECO.

(The author is a civil engineer and a longtime resident of the Davao area, with his own small construction business).

With all the dangers that journalists in the Philippines are faced with, we journalists should be highly paid

that

matters to me and certainly to the burdened NORDECO consumers is the simple bottom line: make the laws truly work for our welfare

Yellen warns of ‘chaos’ if US fails to raise debt ceiling

WASHINGTON, USA—US Treasury

Secretary Janet Yellen warned Sunday that unless Congress acts soon to raise the nation’s debt ceiling, “financial and economic chaos would ensue.”

Republicans have been pressing

President Joe Biden to strike a deal to provide spending cuts in exchange for lifting the national borrowing limit, but Yellen insisted the onus remains on US lawmakers.

“It simply is unacceptable for Congress to threaten economic calamity for American households and the global financial system as the cost of raising the debt ceiling,” she told ABC talk show “This Week.”

Yellen had warned on Monday that the United States could run out of money to pay its financial obligations as early as June 1.

The ceiling on US public debt is legally fixed and can be raised only by passage of congressional legislation signed into law by the president.

The Republican-led House of Representatives, positioning itself for a showdown with Biden, voted in late April to lif the borrowing limit but only with drastic cuts to rein in what that party sees as excessive spending.

The bill has no chance of being adopted in the Senate, with its Democratic majority. Biden has so far refused to negotiate, noting that the debt ceiling has routinely been raised scores of times over the years —including under former Republican president Donald Trump.

But Republicans insist Biden’s refusal to talk is the principal obstacle.

“The president has refused to negotiate,” Senator James Lankford, a Republican on the Senate Appropriations Committee, told ABC. “That has been the most stunning part about this.”

Biden is set to meet on Tuesday with the leaders of both parties in Congress.

“I know he wants to set up a process in which spending priorities and levels are discussed,” said Yellen, “but these negotiations should not take place with a gun pointed at the head of the American people.” AFP

Hong Kong’s

Market tumbles; URC, Ayala Corp. buck trend

STOCKS tumbled

Monday, after S&P Global Ratings reported that major companies in the Philippines face tougher sailing this year.

The PSE index, the 30-company benchmark of the Philippine Stock Exchanged, fell 84 points, or 1.27 percent, to close at 6,600.74, as all six subsectors declined.

The index representing all shares also went down by 30 points to settle at 3,525.64 on a value turnover of P5.87 billion. Losers outnumbered gainers, 92 to 86, while 58 issues were unchanged.

Only two of the 10 most active stocks ended in the green. Universal Robina corp. gained 1.69 percent to P150.80, while Ayala Corp. rose 1.46 percent to P659.50.

“The outlook for large Philippine companies this year can be summarized in a few words: persisting growth aspirations, more leverage, slowing profit growth but generally sound liquidity,” S&P Global Ratings credit analyst Xavier Jean said in a report.

“The large diversified Philippine groups have been the most active spenders and those whose leverage has increased the fastest among the top-40 companies,” said Jean. “They also resumed spending more aggressively than the smaller firms after the lows in 2020.”

Meanwhile, Asian and European markets rose Monday, tracking a rally on Wall

TOP GAINERS

Street fueled by a strong rebound in US regional banks and forecast-beating jobs data that eased fears over a recession in the world’s top economy.

But investors remain wary of any further upheaval in the US financial system following last week’s turmoil that saw the sale of the embattled First Republic Bank to JPMorgan Chase. That followed the collapse in March of three other banks and the takeover of Credit Suisse by UBS, which sparked panic on trading floors.

An indication last week from the US Federal Reserve that it could pause its interest rate hikes—after announcing another increase—did little to soothe concerns.

Still, a surge Friday in US regional lenders and the strong jobs report provided a shot in the arm for Asian markets at the start of the week. With AFP

remaining bamboo scaffolders preserve ancient technique

HONG KONG, China—Mo Jia Yu wraps his legs around a pole to balance high above the ground and secure a joint, a skill he must master to become a bamboo scaffolder in Hong Kong.

The metropolis is one of the world’s last remaining cities to use bamboo scaffolding in modern construction and building repair.

Scaffolders perched on bamboo frames several storeys high are a common sight, and are nicknamed “spiders” by Hong Kongers for their agility over the weblike latticework.

Mo is among dozens of students who enroll each year at the city’s Construction Industry Council (CIC) to learn the traditional method. “You have to have a daring heart,” said Mo, who has been at the school for nearly three months.

“You have to be aware of safety because you are working high up in the air.”

Students learn how to firmly saddle the bamboo frame so that they can free up their hands to work on the scaffolds, which are held together with simple knots tied using nylon strips.

“This basic knot is something we learn first... we practice for an entire week to get it right,” said another student, Ho Cheuk Wai.

GREEN LIGHT

RUBEN

I INITIALLY encountered the term science of happiness on YouTube, where the producers perform social experiments that affect the participants’ emotions and moods. My friends and I tried replicating one of the experiments at our gatherings. The activity was to call someone dear to our hearts and say thank you. And yes, it was effective!

We immediately felt happiness and joy when we expressed gratitude toward those people.

Expressing gratitude is just one of the many ways to improve one’s mood. In today’s world, happiness is measured by what money can buy― new gadgets, cars, travel, etc. While there’s nothing wrong with this, it is not the ultimate measure of happiness.

In one of our Integrated Human Development course sessions, our guest speaker was Dr. Robin Velasco. He talked about what makes us happy.

TOP LOSERS

MOST ACTIVE

“Then, the instructors will teach us how to put on the safety harness, and step-bystep we learn how to build all the way to the top.” Scaffolding using bamboo dates back centuries and was once a widespread practice across China and elsewhere

in Asia. Most cities in the region have phased it out to favor materials such as steel and aluminum.

In Hong Kong, intricate bamboo webs are still part of the cityscape, latticed around both old residential flats

and glitzy skyscrapers. ‘Courage and skill’

Scaffolding is regulated by strict safety guidelines but is still viewed as a dangerous profession since the work is often done at dizzying heights. “You need courage as well as skill to survive,” said Wallace Chang, a professor at Hong Kong University’s architecture department. “This deters people from going into the industry.”

Despite the perils involved in the craft, Chang hopes Hong Kong will preserve it as part of its cultural heritage. Its popularity in the city is due to both price and efficiency.

Bamboo is readily available across the border in southern Chinese provinces. A pole costs around HK$15 (US$2) compared with HK$280 (US$35) for one made of metal. Lightweight bamboo is also easier to transport through a cramped urban center.

It is flexible, allowing builders to cut poles to desired lengths for different construction sites.

“Bamboo scaffolds are very suited to the odd and tight spaces in Hong Kong,” explained instructor Kin Kee Wo, who has worked in the construction industry for nearly 30 years.

“It can be built in the most unthinkable places, in the most beautiful ways.” AFP

The science of happiness

While he was discussing his topic and clicking on his presentation, my mind was also focused somewhere else, and I started asking myself if what I am doing at work and in school makes me happy.

Though I know and believe that happiness is a choice, there are instances where we cannot control our emotions, which is a fascinating fact about our human body. Our unique biochemical composition makes our body reacts or responds beyond our physical body’s control.

In addition, Dr. Velasco also shared other activities that would make us happier. Yes, happiness is a choice; we can always choose to be happy, but if we can be happier, we must pursue that. One way to become happier is to be kind and compassionate towards others. I know that this is true. When we help others, we have this “magical sa pakiramdam” moment where our body feels lighter, our heart is full, and our brain is active.

Another one is expressing gratitude. Like the experiment we replicated, expressing gratitude is a good way

to feel happier. Expressing gratitude is appreciating other people and their acts – whether tangible or intangible. It allows us to acknowledge the goodness in other people and the events we experience. Daily, I always express gratitude to God through prayers. This is how I start and end my day. Gratitude is, indeed, the best attitude.

One of my greatest takeaways from the session is that happiness comes from within. As human beings and as adults, we need to practice mindfulness by letting ourselves be fully present and aware of our actions and surroundings.

It is practicing thinking first before reacting and responding to an outside stimulus. Mindfulness is being calm. It is the process of going inside your core, reflecting on your values as a human being, and making decisions and actions based on these values.

I find this human experience very fascinating and admirable. Despite many challenges in life, humans are still given enough resources to find happiness. However, not all have the privilege

and the capacity to find happiness. I say this because each human experience varies. So as human beings equipped with the resources to be mindful, calm and happy, how can we help other people be in a better place in their lives? Our behaviors toward happiness create a ripple of positive change in the community where we belong. I hope we can share how we overcome challenges and obstacles so others can learn from us. I hope that we can help ourselves, so we can help others to stand up after stumbling.

Let’s create a better world for everyone. A better world where challenges still exist, but we are all equipped to find calm and peace in the middle of the storm.

The author is an MBA student at the Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business, DLSU. He can be reached at ruben_alvarezjr@dlsu.edu.ph.

The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty and its administrators.

NEW YORK, USA—Investment tycoon Warren Buffett said Saturday that messaging from the US government over the regional banking crisis had been “poor,” suggesting that is why confidence has not returned among consumers.

Four regional banks have been caught up in crisis since the beginning of March in the United States, three of them subsequently taken over by other institutions with the help of authorities.

For two of them—Silicon Valley Bank (and Signature Bank—the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation took the controversial decision to support their uninsured deposits, citing fears of contagion.

By law, the FDIC insures up to $250,000 of customers’ deposits in eligible banks, but for SVB and Signature the body insured all deposits, including those above the legal limit. Yet, despite that extraordinary step, consumers are still worried, Buffett said at a shareholder meeting of his Berkshire Hathaway holding company.

“That just shouldn’t happen. The messaging has been very poor,” said the billionaire, who continues to run his group at the age of 92.

“It’s been poor by the politicians who sometimes have an interest in having it poor, it’s been poor by the agencies. And I’d say it’s been poor by the press.”

What happened with SVB demonstrated a government takeover completed with an expanded deposit guarantee, “and the public is still confused,” he said.

While the emergency takeover of regional bank First Republic by the giant JPMorgan Chase on Monday seemed likely to ease anxiety about the banks, it has been a turbulent week.

Several mid-sized banks were targeted on Wall Street, in particular PacWest, which fell 68 percent before recovering 82 percent in Friday’s session alone.

On Saturday, Berkshire Hathaway reported a monster $35.5 billion profit for the first quarter alone, largely due to strong financial markets. AFP

Bu ett hits poor messaging in gov’t handling of banking crisis

C. ALVAREZ JR.

This picture taken in Hong Kong on March 9, 2023 shows a sca older constructing bamboo sca olding around a neon sign. The world’s most skyscraper-laden metropolis is also one of the last remaining major cities to use bamboo sca olding for modern construction and building repair. AFP

BRIDGE BLASTING. People take pictures of the Rahmede highway bridge during its blasting on May 7, 2023 on the A45 motorway, near Luedenscheid, western Germany. During a routine inspection of the 453-meter-long Rahmede viaduct in December 2021, inspectors discovered deformations in the steel wall that could a ect the bridge’s load-bearing capacity. According to the motorway company, a new construction will take at least ve years. AFP

Outstanding gov’t debt rose to record P13.86t in March

By Julito G. Rada

THE outstanding debt of the national government ballooned to a new record of P13.86 trillion as of end-March from P13.75 trillion in end-February as the government borrowed more to finance the budget deficit, data from the Bureau of the Treasury show.

The Btr said in a statement Monday the national debt increased by P104.15 billion or 0.8 percent from the previous month, “primarily due to the net issuance of domestic and external debt.”

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

Domestic debt increased by 0.8 per-

cent or P71 billion to P9.51 trillion from the end-February 2023 level.

“In March, the P72.87 billion net issuance of domestic securities outweighed the P1.87 billion effect of local currency appreciation against the US dollar on onshore foreign currency denominated securities,” it said.

The Treasury said that from the end-December 2022 level, domestic

debt increased by P304.78 billion or 3.3 percent.

External debt, meanwhile, rose 0.8 percent or P33.15 billion to reach P4.34 trillion from the previous month’s level.

“The increment in NG’s external obligation for the month was attributed to the P84.26-billion net availment of foreign loans and P18.53 billion impact of third-currency adjustments against the US dollar,” the Treasury said.

These more than offset the P69.64-billion effect of local currency appreciation against the US dollar. From the end-December 2022 level, the country’s external debt went up by P133.27 billion or 3.2 percent.

Data showed that month-on-month, total national government guaranteed obligations decreased by P3.07 billion or 0.8 percent to P384.12 billion as of end-

Globe selling 447 towers to Unity Digital for P5.4b

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said Monday it signed an agreement with Unity Digital Infrastructure, a partnership between Aboitiz InfraCapital and Partners Group, to sell 447 towers for P5.4 billion.

March 2023. This was due to the net repayment of both domestic and external guarantees amounting to P0.01 billion and P1.52 billion, respectively.

The net appreciation of the peso relative to the US dollar further trimmed P2.99 billion. These were tempered by the net appreciation of third-currency denominated guarantees against the US dollar amounting to P1.45 billion.

The Treasury said that from the endDecember 2022 level, the national government’s guaranteed debt decreased by P14.93 billion or 3.7 percent.

The government’s budget deficit increased by 12.04 percent in March to P210.3 billion from the P187.7-billion shortfall a year ago as revenues fell by 11.99 percent and expenditures went down by 2.62 percent.

Maynilad allots P4b this year to reduce non-revenue water

By Othel V. Campos

MAYNILAD Water Services Inc. is spending P4 billion in 2023 to reduce non-revenue water in the west zone of the Greater Manila Area, up by 25 percent from its NRW capital expenditure of P3.2 billion in 2022.

“We are accelerating our NRW Management projects this year so that we can recover more water supply for distribution to customers, in preparation for El Niño,” said Maynilad chief operating officer Randolph Estrellado.

Maynilad recovered 47 million liters per day of water in the first quarter of 2023, owing to the company’s water loss reduction initiatives. The recovered volume is enough to serve the supply requirements of as many as 241,000 people.

The company said that from January to March 2023, it replaced 31 kilometers of old pipelines and repaired of 7,832 pipe leaks in Quezon City, Manila, Muntinlupa and Las Piñas that significantly reduced its NRW.

Some of the improvements included a major leak repair along Osmeña High-

way corner Zobel Roxas St. in Makati City, which yielded a water recovery of 17 MLD.

Maynilad also started the reactivation of 45 deep wells across the west zone with plans to commission two modular treatment plants in Cavite province, while tapping additional cross-border points with Manila Water in preparation for the El Niño dry spell.

The water company is also overseeing the construction of an auxiliary filtration system at Putatan Water Treatment Plant and sees through the operation of a

By Jenni er B. Austria

PROPERTY developer SM Prime Holdings Inc. said Monday net income grew 27 percent in the first quarter to P9.4 billion from P7.4 billion in the same period last year, lifted by a double-digit growth in revenues. First-quarter consolidated sales rose 20 percent to P28.7 billion from P23.9 billion on strong sales from its mall business. Consolidated operating income went up 30 percent to P13.9 billion from P10.7 billion.

“We are pleased to report a strong first-quarter consolidated financial performance on SM Prime’s business. This is a testament to the resilience of our businesses and the hard work and dedication of our employees. Particularly, our recurring businesses have remarkably bounced back after being hit by the mobility restrictions and economic disruptions,” SMPH president

“Signing this agreement with Unity is consistent with our endeavor to promote capital efficiency and prudence in our transactions. We keep our shareholders and customers’ welfare in mind by finding the right balance of funding sources and transformational projects designed to steer the company towards the digital forefront,” Globe chief finance officer Rizza Maniego-Eala said.

The tower assets consist of 84-percent ground-based towers and 16-percent rooftop towers. The sale comes with a commitment to build over 200 towers across Visayas and/ or Mindanao.

The towers, which are all located in Luzon, will be leased back to Globe for an initial period of 15 years. The first close for the portfolio is targeted to occur in the third quarter of 2023, with subsequent closings happening as and when closing conditions are met. Globe estimates the pretax net transaction gain from the transaction to be P1.8 billion. Darwin G. Amojelar

ICTSI’s profit grew by 9% to $154.61m in 1st quarter

INTERNATIONAL Container Terminal Services Inc. said Monday net income grew by 9 percent in the first quarter on the back of higher operating income. The port operator said net income amounted to $154.61 million from January to March, higher than $142.28 million it booked in the same period last year. Revenue from port operations reached $572.25 million, an increase of 8 percent from $528.27 million reported a year earlier.

“These results have been driven by our diversified portfolio and continued focus on margins, and they have been achieved against a challenging macroeconomic and geopolitical backdrop,” said ICTSI chairman and president Enrique Razon Jr.

“Looking ahead, whilst we remain cautious of continued uncertainty, ICTSI is a strong and agile business differentiated by our strategy in origin and destination gateway terminals as well as an experienced team with a sharp focus on operational discipline, which positions us well for future growth,” he said. Darwin G. Amojelar

Alternergy awards EPC contract for solar project

LISTED Alternergy Holdings Corp. said Monday it awarded the engineering, procurement and construction contract for the 20-megawatt Solana solar power project in Hermosa, Bataan of whollyowned subsidiary Solana Solar Alpha.

Alternergy said it awarded the EPC contract to JGC Philippines Inc., the largest overseas EPC subsidiary of Japan’s JGC Group.

SSAI also issued the notice to proceed with the early work activities.

new water treatment plant in Poblacion, Muntinlupa City.

It said the additional supply to be generated from the said projects would help improve supply reliability for some 700,000 Maynilad customers in parts of Manila, Parañaque, Pasay, Muntinlupa, Las Piñas and Cavite.

Maynilad is the largest private water concessionaire in the Philippines in terms of customer base. It is the concessionaire of Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System for the west zone of the Greater Manila Area.

in first quarter

Jeffrey Lim said. The company’s Philippine mall business posted an 88-percent increase in first-quarter revenues to P15.4 billion from P8.2 billion a year earlier.

Malls’ rental income soared 72 percent to P13 billion because of an increase in tenant sales and foot traffic and the full charging of rental fees that the company has implemented since the second half of 2022.

The China mall business also registered revenues of RMB0.2 billion in the first three months of 2023, almost the same level as last year’s.

Meanwhile, SMPH’s residential business under SM Development Corp. posted P8.5 billion in revenues, down 29 percent from last year’s P12 billion partly because of canceled sales as an effect of high inflation, rising domestic interest rates and the lapse of Bayanihan Law.

The company said, however, that cancellations were beginning to moderate in the first quarter of 2023.

Metro Pacific buying P24b worth of shares to increase stake in SP New Energy to 43%

METRO Pacific Investments Corp. is increasing its stake in renewable company SP New Energy Corp. to 43 percent for P24 billion.

SPNEC said in a stock exchange filing Monday its board approved an option agreement that would allow MPIC to acquire another 17.4 billion SPNEC shares including 10 billion primary shares for P12.5 billion and 7.4 billion secondary shares for P9.25 billion.

The option agreement is subject to SPNEC’s increase in authorized capital stock to P50 billion from P10 billion.

The parties signed the option agreement on May 5 after MPIC completed the purchase of 1.6 billion common shares, equivalent to 16-percent stake in SPNEC. MPIC acquired the shares from SPNEC’s parent firm Solar Philippines Power Project Holdings Inc.

“Our thrust of pursuing renewable energy brings the MVP Group one step closer to ful-

filling our mission of creating long-term value for our stakeholders through responsible and sustainable investments,” MPIC chairman and president Manuel Pangilinan said during the signing of of the option agreement. SPNEC said it plans to expedite the acquisition of shares of SPPPHI in various entities and funding of its developments, with the goal of making SPNEC the largest renewable energy company in the Philippines.

Its solar project in Nueva Ecija could be the largest in Asia.

“We have long seen a partnership with MPIC to be the key to unlock the potential of our project pipeline. We are humbled and grateful for this opportunity, and believe that SPNEC now has the final ingredients to realize the value of our developments for the benefit of all stakeholders,” SPNEC and SPPPHI chief executive Leandro Leviste said. Jenniffer B. Austria

“We are excited to move forward with the construction of the Solana project, part of the Alternergy Group’s triple play portfolio,” said Alternergy chairman Vicente Pérez Jr. JGC serves industries including power, petroleum refining, petrochemicals, metals and minerals= and biofuels. It has completed solar plants with a capacity of about 800 MW and another 170 MW under construction. JGC Philippines was selected after a competitive bidding process involving six companies from China, Germany, India and Japan. Alena Mae S. Flores

Ex-DICT

A FORMER official of the Department of Information and Communications Technology called for “definitive and decisive action” on the reported massive data breach involving the Philippine National Police and other line government agencies.

Erstwhile DICT undersecretary for policy and legal affairs Jose Vicente Salazar said the reported data breach underscores the need to further strengthen safety nets against “unauthorized and therefore illegal intrusions into confidential information, both private and public, that may put lives and property in serious jeopardy.”

“At stake here is not only security of the people in particular, but also security of the state as a whole. Identity theft may become rampant and committed with impunity across the country, but what is more alarming is the possibility of a threat to national security because confidential information falls in the hands of the wrong people,” Salazar said.

He said the alleged data breach was a “very serious matter that needs to be decisively addressed.” Salazar was also an undersecretary at the Department of Justice.

The DICT said it launched its own investigation into the alleged data breach involving over 1.2 million records of law enforcement agencies including the PNP.

The DICT said its Cybersecurity Bureau and National Computer Emergency Response Team intensified its inquiry into the matter.

“The DICT considers the incident as a grave concern that threatened the confidentiality, integrity, and privacy of user data. The department assures the public that investigation on the matter is underway,” the DICT said in a statement.

executive calls for ‘decisive’ action on data leak

SM Prime’s net income climbed by 27% to P9.4b

TOP ISSUE MANAGER. SB Capital Investments Corp. is recognized by the country’s xed income exchange, the Philippine Dealing System Group, as the top corporate issue manager/arranger at the 18th PDS Annual Awards Night. Receiving the award are (from left) SB Capital director Marvin Matias, Security Bank rst vice president and head of treasury wholesale sales Carlyn Dulay, SB Capital executive director Margaux Lee, SB Capital head of syndicate and distribution Daisy Garcia, SB Capital president Virgilio Chua, SB Capital senior associate director Daniel Locsin and SB Capital associate Mia Reona.

AEC MEETING. Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo Pascual participates with fellow trade ministers in the 22nd ASEAN Economic Community Council Meeting on May 7, 2023 in Jakarta, Indonesia. The AEC Council, which met ahead of the 42nd ASEAN Summit, deliberated on the need to further strengthen ASEAN’s sustainability initiatives, particularly in pursuing a transition to clean energy and the development of a regional electric vehicle ecosystem.

Gilas PH launches redemption bid Tuesday

PHNOM PENH—Gilas Pilipinas opens its redemption bid Tuesday against Malaysia in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games men’s basketball tourney at the Morodok Elephant Hall here.

The Nationals face Malaysia at 1 p.m. (2 p.m. local time), the start of what could be an arduous task to make up for a sorry silver medal finish in the Vietnam Games last year.

Yulo claims 3rd all-around gymnastics’ gold in SEAG

By Peter Atencio

PHNOM PENH—Carlos Yulo won his third individual all-around gold medal in the Southeast Asian Games and helped his teammates claim another silver medal on Monday in opening day hostilities of the men’s artistic gymnastics meet at the National Olympic Stadium here.

Banking on strong scores in the floor exercise (14.350), vault (15.00), parallel bars (14.00) and rings (14.150) to offset his mediocre output in the pommel horse (12.650) and high bar (12.90), Yulo ended the day with the best individual tally of 84.00 points at the Olympic Stadium. He finished way ahead of Vietnamese Thang Tung Le and Phung Tanh Dinh, who settled for the silver and bronze medal with scores of

Sibol grabs

1st esports gold of PH

PHNOM PENH—The Philippine Sibol team went beyond expectations, sweeping all of its three encounters, to finish with a 3-1 victory over Vietnam in the League of Legends: Wild Rift event for its first esports gold in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games at the NagaWorld 2 Integrated Resort Theatre here.

It was a stunning win for the Filipino esports players, who went winless in the Wild Rift event of the Vietnam SEA Games last year.

Led by Chammy Nazzarea, a member of Nigma Galaxy, Sibol got off to a great start with a 3-0 demolition of Singapore in the semifinals.

Then, a 3-2 stopping of Vietnam in the upper bracket finals sent the Filipinos, also composed of Aaron Bingay, Justine Chan, Gerald Gelacio, Van Alfonso and Reniel Angara, into the goldmedal match.

Vietnam, spearheaded by Hậu “Akeno” Hồ Trung, fought off Cambodia, 3-0, in the lower bracket finals, to reach the gold-medal round against the Filipinos.

“So far so good. We hope this helps set the tone for our entire SEA Games run,” said Philippine Sibol general manager Jab Escutin.

Filipino gamers will next plunge into action in the mixed team event of Crossfire.

80.45 and 78.150 points, respectively.

“Masaya po ako. Binigay po naming lahat nang makakaya namin para madepensahan ito,” said Yulo, who had a higher tally of 85.150 on his second successful title defense last year in Hanoi.

“I’m happy with the result because I had two weeks to prepare. I was able to do it and I’m so thankful,” Yulo said. “Training in Manila helped a lot because it’s so hot here in Cambodia.

Our preparation helped us to get ready 100 percent.”

Yulo and Team Philippines, along with replacement gymnast John Romeo Santillan managed to get a silver with 305.2 points.

An almost intact Vietnamese side, with only one gymnast replaced, reclaimed the gold medal with 313 points.

“They did well. They had a great execution of routines,” said coach Reyland Capellan.

Phuong Than Dinh settled for the individual allaround brone with 78.150 points.

Yulo’s other teammate Juancho Besana was fifth with 73.70 points.

Gwyn Timbang, John Ivan Cruz and John Santillan, who took the place of Matthew Vergata, also contributed points for Team Philippines.

The 23-year-old Yulo will seek two more podiums in the parallel bar and high bar.

Longtime Barangay Ginebra import Justin Brownlee leads the Gilas squad, making his debut in SEA Games play. The naturalized player saw action for Gilas in Window 6 of the FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian qualifiers.

Also in the team are PBA players Christian Standhardinger, Chris Newsome, Arvin Tolentino, Calvin Oftana, CJ Perez, Chris Ross, Marcio Lassiter and Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser.

Collegiate players Mason Amos, Jerom Lastimosa, and Michael Phillips have also been included in the final roster.

Gilas’ bid to reclaim the gold will be a challenging one, with defending champion Indonesia bringing in former PBA import Lester Prosper as one of their naturalized players.

Host Cambodia is also bent on winning another SEA Games gold after ruling the 3x3 event last Monday, with naturalized players Sayeed Pridgett, Brandon Peterson and Darrin Dorsey leading the way.

“That’s the nature of the competition. We just have to make the best and play the game,” said Philippines coach Chot Reyes following Monday’s practice.

Casares keeps triathlon title; Mangrobang 2nd

PHNOM PENH—Fernando Casares successfully defended the men’s title after Kim Mangrobang failed in her bid for a fourth straight gold medal in women’s triathlon on Monday at the 32nd Southeast Asian Games here.

Casares clocked 58 minutes and 33.5 seconds to clinch the gold medal, defeating Indonesia’s Rashif Yaqin (58:47) in the 750m swim-20km bike-5km run men’s event at the Kep Beach Resort.

Andrew Kim Remolino finished third in 59:53 for the bronze, the

Cebuano’s second medal following a silver finish in men’s aquathlon last Saturday.

Mangrobang, who topped the women’s duathlon race last Sunday, clocked (1:07:24) to finish second behind Cambodian naturalized entry Margot Garabedian, who clocked one hour, five minutes and 34.2 seconds.

Garabedian is a former French triathlete currently ranked 190th in the world.

Singapore’s Louisa Marie Middleditch reached the podium in

third (1:07:24) in the swim-bikerun race of the endurance race. Raven Alcoseba placed fourth (1:08:49.1), more than three minutes behind the 27-year-old Garabedian. The Philippines bagged three out of the possible seven gold medals in aquathlon (3), duathlon (2) and triathlon (2) and a pair of silvers from Remolino in men’s aquathlon and Mangrobang.

The PH mixed aquathlon relay team of Erika Burgos, Inaki Lorbes, Kira Ellis and Matthew Hermosa likewise bagged a gold medal.

Filipinas in must-win game vs champion Vietnamese

PHNOM PENH— The Philippine national women’s football team is in a must-win situation when it takes on defending champion Vietnam in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games at 4 p.m. on Tuesday at the Smart RNS Stadium in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

A win against the reigning champs will hand the team, collectively known as the Filipinas, a ticket to the semifinals, where they can hope to surpass their bronze-medal finish in Vietnam last year.

The Filipinas, who kept their hopes alive following a 1-0 win over Malaysia on Saturday, can’t afford a draw, because it may give Myanmar a chance to go for semis slot.

“We have to win now to stay alive in the tournament. It’s a must-win game for us. Vietnam, we’ve beaten them once in our history,” said Filipinas’ coach Allen Stajcic.

The Filipinas were handed a 1-2 defeat by Vietnam at the latter’s home turf during last year’s 31st SEA Games.

But the Philippines got back at its tormentors in the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Women’s Championship with a massive 4-0 win in the semifinals, before stunning Thailand, 3-0, to run away with the crown before a delirious hometown crowd in Manila.

Vietnam is currently on top of Group A, following its 3-1 triumph over Myanmar.

“It’s a tough game. They’re on top of the group. So we have to win and we have to win well to stay alive,” added Stajcic.

It was Sarina Bolden’s late goal which lifted the Filipinas to the victory over Malaysia on Saturday night. It was her 21st goal in 34 appearances for the national team. Peter Atencio

Carlos Yulo scores 14.150 in the rings, which contributed to his 3rd straight all-around event gold medal in the gymnastics competition of the SEA Games.

Fernando Casares (left) and Andrew Kim Remolino show o their medals.

Sarina Bolden (left)

Game Tuesday (Smart RNS Stadium) 4 p.m. Philippines vs Vietnam

Uy primed for 2nd win at Luisita

TARLAC—Daniella Uy expects to have built her patience even as she focuses on progress coming off a pair of final round miscues, seeking a second victory in the ICTSI Luisita Championship beginning today (Tuesday) at the Luisita Golf and Country Club here.

Uy blew a huge final round lead in the Iloilo stop of the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour last month and failed to sustain a strong second round charge at Caliraya Springs that stymied her drive for a followup to her breakthrough victory at Riviera in 2021.

But the former Junior World champion is confident of completing a top podium finish this week while putting emphasis on driving and putting in pursuit of the crown in the 54-hole championship.

“I hope to get my second win at Luisita but I don’t have any expectations,” said Uy, who also campaigns on the LPGA of Taiwan Tour and honed her skills in the US during the pandemic. “I just want to have fun and not force anything on the golf course.”

After storming into contention with a second round 67 at Caliraya and ending up joint fifth with a clos-

ing 74 three weeks ago, Uy worked on her long game and putting during the break to get her A-ready for the Luisita battle.

“Hitting good drives would help me shoot lower scores at the tight Luisita course and hitting a lot of fairways and sinking putts would help me win this tournament,” she added.

Aside from tackling a challenging, water-laced course, Uy also needs to overcome the likes of Harmie Constan-

tino, Chihiro Ikeda, Florence Bisera and Pamela Mariano with young Korean Kim Seoyun also tipped to figure in the title race following a strong runnerup finish at Caliraya. Constantino and Bisera hope to cash in on their joint third place effort at Caliraya with the former, who swept the last two legs of last year’s LPGT at Pradera Verde and Villamor, also raring to get back into the winning track after placing sev-

Letran, San Beda clash in D-League

Games on Tuesday (Filoil EcoOil Center)

2 p.m. – CEU vs AMA

4 p.m. – Wangs Basketball @27

Striker-Letran vs Marinerong Pilipino-San Beda

enth at Marapara and ending up joint sixth in Iloilo.

Others seeking to sneak into the title hunt are former leg winner Sarah Ababa, Rev Alcantara, Apple Fudolin, Gretchen Villacencio, Sheryl Villasencio, Lovelynn Guioguio, Lucy Landicho, Eva Minoza, Kristine Fleetwood, Majorie Pulumbarit, Korean Yang Juyoung and amateurs Laurea Duque and Nam Eunhua, also from Korea.

PSC vows continued support for athletes

PHILIPPINE Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann reiterated the agency’s commitment to support elite athletes as far as resources and policies would allow.

Bachmann, who has been cheering Filipino athletes fighting in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia, praised their determination and dedication to win.

“It is really amazing to see their hard work translate into medals,” said the agency chief who made the rounds of training venues in the first months of his leadership, in order to

get to know the athletes.

Bachmann shared that the commission is actively looking after the athletes’ needs.

The Philippine government, through the PSC, is bankrolling the participation of the delegation, covering airfare, early-arrival expenses, uniforms, allowances, equipment, supplies, manpower, medical support, and other expenses.

Highly-charged start looms as ICTSI golf unfolds

TARLAC – Unfazed by the depth of talent in the ICTSI Luisita Championship roster, Tony Lascuña expects to be in the mix early, armed with a form honed through years of practice and hard work and a confidence boosted by a recent win.

But the multi-titled Davaoeño would need more than everything to score a repeat over the cream of the country’s pro crop, made up of fellow Philippine Golf Tour leg winners Ira Alido and Rupert Zaragosa, The Country Club Invitational back-to-back champion Guido van der Valk and Asian Tour campaigners Angelo Que, Lloyd Go and Miguel Tabuena.

Add club pro Clyde Mondilla and fellow veterans Jhonnel Ababa, Zanieboy Gialon, Michael Bibat, Reymon Jaraula, Jay Bayron and Marvin Dumandan and young guns Sean Ramos, Gabriel Manotoc, Kristoffer Arevalo, Josh Jorge, Russell Bautista, Elee Bisera, Jonas Magcalayo and Korean Rho Hyun Ho, a scramble of a start today (Tuesday) indeed looms in the P2 million champion at the Luisita Golf and Country Club here. “I’m always ready. Daily practice keeps me in good shape,” said Lascuña, also one of the swing coaches at Manila Southwoods. “Kung ibibigay sa akin ni Lord, thank you, kung hindi okay lang. Basta alam ko lagi akong may laban.”

So do the rest of the 63-player starting field all geared up for four days of battle of shotmaking, iron play, putting and wits on an exacting course that also puts premium on accuracy and decision-making.

Lascuña last won at Luisita in 2016 when he turned what was expected to be a wild finish into a runaway victory with a closing 65. But he has not seriously figured in the title race at the Robert Trent Jones, Sr.designed layout since, ending up tied at fifth in last year’s edition won by Tabuena via sudden death over Mondilla.

But given his vintage performances the last two months that saw him post back-to-back runner-up finishes in Bacolod and Iloilo and score a three-shot romp over Que and Go at Caliraya, Lascuna easily sets out as the marked player in the fourth leg of this year’s circuit put up by ICTSI.

But Mondilla, Que and Go are all hungry to join Alido, Zaragosa and van der Valk in the list of this year’s leg winners and Tabuena back to defend the crown and a slew of others, including the young guns, raring to spoil the fancied bets’ respective bids.

Mondilla, for one, hopes to get the job done after a

couple of final round struggles in Bacolod and Caliraya, exuding confidence of a successful showing on a course which he also calls home and where he last reigned in 2018.

But Que is also due for a big finish and Go is out to nail the elusive first win, ensuring a highly-charged kickoff to the 72-hole championship featuring one of the strongest casts in the circuit organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.

The agency also took care of training, exposure competitions and other Pre-SEAG expenditures.

So far, more than P200 million has been disbursed to cover SEA Games related expenses.

Asked about the delegation’s prospects, Bachmann remarked that the aim is always to finish better than the last performance and “with all these medals coming, and the remaining expected medals which have not yet been competed in, I am hopeful for more wins.”

During the 31st edition in Hanoi last year, the country finished 4th overall with 52 gold, 70 silver and 105 bronze medals.

WANGS Basketball @27 Striker – Letran and Marinerong PilipinoSan Beda rekindle their rivalry, while Centro Escolar University and AMA Online gun for their first win in the 2023 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup Tuesday at the Fioil EcoOil Center in San Juan. Bringing their animosity from the NCAA, the Knights (0-0) and the Red Lions (1-1) lock horns in the main game at 4 p.m. after the opening duel between the Scorpions (01) and the Titans (0-1) at 2 p.m. San Beda split its first two outings – a loss against neophyte PSP Gymers and a big win versus reigning champion EcoOil-La Salle – before testing the mettle of long-time collegiate rival Letran in its debut.

“Kailangan handa kami sa defending NCAA champion (Letran). We have utmost respect for them, they’re the 3-peat NCAA champion for a reason. It’s a rivalry so let’s see,” said San Beda mentor Yuri Escueta, who’ll be up against a new Letran counterpart Rensy Bajar.

Bajar has been appointed last month to succeed Bonnie Tan with a mission of extending the Knights’ winning tradition, starting in the D-League.

Both squads are parading young units with the graduation of their key stalwarts. Yukien Andrada and Jacob Cortez banners San Beda’s bid against Letran holdovers Kurt Reyson and Kobe Monje.

CEU and AMA, meanwhile, are out to shrug off their opening day losses and barge into the winner’s circle at the expense of each other in an expected gritty duel.

“Most of our players are first timers in PBA D-League. They were overwhelmed not only being on TV but also playing against the defending champs. I have to do a better job of preparing them, not just physically but mentally as well,” said coach Jeff Perlas as CEU bowed to La Salle in the opener, 84-62.

“Baka i-activate na namin ‘yung key players namin. And we need to adjust our defense especially vs CEU na may import. We need gang rebounding against them,” said AMA mentor Mark Herrera.

Pague whips Anasta for Brookside Open crown

JOSE Maria Pague clipped Vicente

Anasta with a superb all-around game, coming away with a 6-2, 6-2 romp to crown himself the new Brookside Open National Tennis champion at the Brookside Hills courts in Cainta, Rizal over the weekend.

Pague imposed his will early, breaking his doubles partner twice in the opening set then sustaining his charge in the next to fashion out the straight-set victory that came after the Zamboanga ace hacked out a pair of three-set wins to reach the finals of the Group A event presented by Dunlop.

Winner of last year’s Buglasan Open in Dumaguete, Pague racked up five straight games after Anasta held serve in the second frame to wrest firm control. The veteran Anasta looked headed for a big comeback after holding serve in the seventh and breaking Pague in the next but the latter dashed whatever hopes his rival might have had in the ninth game by breaking back while yielding just one point.

Pague thus pocketed the top P50,000 purse offered in the week-long championship backed by Rep. Michael John “Jack” Duavit and organized by Brookside Tennis Club president Allan del Castillo.

Fifth ranked Elvin Geluz and Marco Macalintal, meanwhile, repelled the No. 3 tandem of Noel Damian and Alberto Villamor, 6-4. 6-2, to claim the men’s doubles crown worth P40,000 in the event supported by (Ret.) Police Direc-

tor-General Oscar Calderon, (Ret.) Police Lt. Gen. Luizo Ticman, Lexis Sterling Gold, Premium Articles, Biyaheng Pinas Travel & Tours, Jalal Food PH, Mangangalugad Book Travel Stay, Republica Restaurant and Liezel Tolibas.

On their way to the finals of the event held under the PPS-PEPP tennis program put up by Palawan Pawnshop president/CEO Bobby Castro, Geluz and Macalintal subdued Junel Canal and John Sonsona, 6-2, 6-4, while Damian and Villamor routed the top-seeded pair of Pague and Anasta, 6-3, 6-1.

Meanwhile, JD Benitez and Danilo Olosim captured the Legends men’s doubles 40-and-above trophy against Rey Ayson and Expedito Lim, Jr., while Renell Crescini and Aldrin Geluz snared the 50-and-above crown over Pedro Gonzales and Stephen Pilares.

Rollie Anasta bested Chat Conta for the Legends’ men’s singles 35-and-above trophy while Crescini turned back doubles partner Aldrin Geluz to clinch the men’s singles 45-and-above diadem.

Meanwhile, top seed Vince Serna and No. 2 Alfonso Infante brace for a fierce challenge against the likes of rising star Brice Baisa and Samuel Davila plus a host of others in the boys’ 18-and-under division while Kimi Brodeth looms as the marked player in the girls’ side in the Brookside National Juniors Championships which fire off May 11, also at the Brookside Hills courts. For details, contact tournament organizer Bobby Mangunay at 0915-4046464.

Daniella Uy

PSC chairman Richard Bachmann

Tony Lascuña

Would you get yourself an Afam?

EVERYONE has the right to choose their partner. And many Filipinas prefer to end up with a foreigner. This concept of looking for an ideal foreigner lover is what Vivamax explores in its latest movie, Afam

“Afam” formerly meant a foreigner assigned in Manila or an expat, until it got broadened to a foreigner around Manila or a tourist.

These days, it’s loosely used to refer to a foreigner, period, whether he’s staying in Manila or not.

Hazel and Daisy (Jela Cuenca and Robb Guinto, respectively) are

friends and co-workers at Bukang Liwayway Resort. They are different in many ways – Hazel is sweet and a bit shy, while Daisy is tough and a nagger. But both are caring and ready to be in love.

With the right man, Hazel dreams to build a complete family that she never had. As for Daisy, all she wants is to have someone take her away from her family who makes her their milking cow.

With the help of their former neighbor, Mirabelle (Katya Santos ) Hazel and Daisy discover the fun of online dating and Afam-hunting.

‘Siglo ng Kalinga’ holds premiere with all-nurse cast

THE all-nurse cast film

Siglo ng Kalinga by the award-winning filmmaker Lemuel Lorca, produced by Dr. Carl Balita Productions, had its premiere on April 24, at SM Megamall’s cinemas 2 and 3, respectively.

The momentous occasion was a gathering of VIPs and supporters of the advocacy film since its launch in October 2022 – headed by its executive producer, Dr. Carl Balita

Dr. Balita is a nurse by profession, a multi-awarded entrepreneur, and a bestselling author. He’s the name behind the most successful, biggest, multiawarded, and the only ISO 9001-2015 certified business of its kind, Carl E. Balita Review Center (CBRC).

Prominent figures in the nursing profession, members, and officers of the

Philippine Nurses’ Association (PNA) were all in attendance.

Siglo ng Kalinga is from the story and screenplay of Archie Del Mundo, inspired by the life story of PNA founder Anastacia Giron-Tupas and the heroic lives of Filipino nightingales. Another groundbreaking initiative of this film project was casting reallife nurses as actual actors.

The film is about three periods that interconnect all the life experiences, work, advocacies, teachings, and learnings from Tupas through portions of flashbacks in 1922-1945-1959 while transposing her story into the lives of her modern-day contemporaries or counterparts.

Singing the official soundtrack of Siglo ng Kalinga is pop diva Kuh Ledesma, also a nurse. Ledesma sang with Dr. Balita in a duet for the song “Walang

Glaiza de Castro opens up about not being ready for motherhood

ACTRESS Glaiza de Castro admits she’s not yet ready for motherhood two years after tying the knot with David Rainey. In a recent interview, she emphasized the importance of being prepared physically, spiritually, and mentally before having a baby, citing the challenges she has seen her siblings and friends face.

“So, David and I are still preparing for that huge event. So that when the time comes, we’re settled already. As of now, we still have to attend to a lot of concerns, like, we just opened our business, I got busy taping for GMA’s The Seed of Love so we are taking our time,” Glaiza shared adding that if she were to decide, she would like to have two children.

Speaking of her new show The Seed of Love the actress is happy that finally, it will be airing. According to her, it’s three years in the making.

After pausing taping due to the pandemic, resuming work for Glaiza wasn’t easy. It was hard for her to get back into character, given that they started filming in February 2020, before the pandemic. While they were on hold, Glaiza did other projects like Nagbabagang Luha, and the director and the cast had their shows.

us involved in the show were able to finish taping the whole thing. Definitely, this is another quality show from GMA and we’re very excited that finally, it will get shown. It’s so relieving that our fighting spirit, courage, and perseverance paid off,” Glaiza ended.

* * *

Sunshine Cruz was asked if there is someone responsible for her current blooming state. She responded by advising one to stay away from negativity and mentioned that her daughters are also significant factors.

According to the lovely actress, her children are just like her chums and their age difference is not a hindrance.

“Whenever I’m with them, they make me feel young. I guess, it helps if you are happy with your life. Actually, my children are the ones who teach me what hair color, makeup, or clothing suits me. They are involved with me as their mom,” she avers.

Does this mean she’s okay for now even if she doesn’t have a love life?

Hanggang Kalinga.”

The all-nurses cast included Joy Ras, Tads Obach, Bambi Rojas, Ellener Cruz, Joel Rey Carcasona, Aldrin Samson, Irma Bustamante, Jewell Alano, Abbey Romero, Anna Illescas, Lorrich Del Castilo, Denmark Mismanos, Aya Sarmiento, Jam Sandiego, Val Ramilo, Jerico Roque, and VJ Mendoza

Nursing leaders and luminaries, mostly deans and presidents of nursing schools and PNA officers, also played vital historical roles, such as Dr. Cora Anonuevo, Mila Llanes, Betty Merritt, Remedios Fernandez, Rita Tamse, Clare Curato, Frances Cuevas, Nerissa Gerial, and PNA National President Melvin Miranda Siglo ng Kalinga opens in cinemas nationwide on May 31.

It’s how Mirabelle got herself a rich Italian husband.

Hazel and Daisy soon find a chatmate, not knowing that they are chatting with the same man who is using two names: JJ and Jamey (Nico Locco ).

JJ/Jamey presents himself as charming and a perfect gentleman, but in reality, he is cunning and fraudulent. When he comes to the Philippines to meet his girls and attend to some questionable business, they are all startled by their situation.

Afam now streams on Vivamax.

THE U.S. Navy 7th Fleet Band Far East Edition gave mallgoers a taste of all-American music during a recent performance at SM Megamall with their repertoire of traditional New Orleansstyle jazz and American top 40 hits.

Known for sharing their passion for advancing peace and goodwill through music, the U.S. 7th Fleet Band’s “Far East Edition,” is a popular music ensemble known for its incredible versatility. Transforming from a brass band to a rock band to a jazz combo, the group can be heard playing contemporary hits, jazz, classic rock, local regional favorites, and anything in between.

U.S. Navy musicians comprise the band, which has been featured at major events throughout the Indo-Asia Pacific region and has entertained hundreds of thousands of people over the years. During their visit to Manila, the fivepiece ensemble also held workshops and performances at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (University of the City of Manila), St. Scholastica’s College, and the Philippine High School for the Arts.

The performance of the U.S. Navy 7th Fleet Band was presented by the United States Embassy in the Philippines and is one of the exciting cultural events at SM Megamall.

Third ‘Guardians’ film unseats

‘Super Mario’ at the top of the tills

for and She taping,

“I’m not really closing my doors. If someone will come, then good. But if not, it’s just fine. I don’t really look for it. Anyway, my kids are there. I’ll just wait for whatever plan God has in store for me.”

DESPITE talk of growing superhero fatigue among moviegoers, Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 opened to a solid $114 million in ticket sales in North American theaters, industry watcher Exhibitor Relations reported Sunday.

During Nagbabagang

Luha, Glaiza talked to the director, Ricky Davao, and expressed her hope that their show would eventually push through. She didn’t want all the effort they had put in, including ten days of taping, and an 11-hour journey to Ifugao, Banaue, to go to waste. Finally, when she saw their opening billboard and music video, it was fulfilling for her.

“It gives me a sense of pride that all of

As of now, Sunshine keeps herself busy with her career. She is currently doing a movie titled Lola Magdalena, directed by Joel Lamangan. In addition, she is part of the grand soap opera Unbreak My Heart, a collaboration between GMA and ABS-CBN, alongside Jodi Sta. Maria, Richard Yap, Joshua Garcia, and Gabbi Garcia

Despite being 45 years old, Sunshine feels blessed that she still receives meaty roles such as these. As such, she would rather focus on her current projects.

That estimated total, while well below last year’s opening of Marvel’s Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness – which launched to the tune of $187 million – was still “an excellent opening for a Marvel episode 3 sequel,” said analyst David A. Gross, adding, “This is strong business.”

The latest tale of oddball intergalactic mercenaries, human and otherwise, again stars Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Bradley Cooper, and Vin Diesel – this time on a mission to save comrade Rocket Raccoon from a scientist intent on removing his brain.

The Guardians finally unseated Universal’s The Super Mario Bros. Movie from the top spot in its fifth week out. The video game-based film, which has earned more than a billion dollars globally, took

in $18.6 million for the Friday-throughSunday period. Warner Bros.’ blood-soaked horror film Evil Dead Rise dropped one spot to third, taking in $5.7 million. It has two sisters (Lily Sullivan and Alyssa Sutherland) battling the demonic Deadites crew. In fourth place, also down one spot, was Lionsgate comedy-drama Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, at $3.4 million. Abby Ryder Fortson plays sixth-grader Margaret Simon as she navigates the challenges of that awkward age. And in fifth spot was new Sony rom-com Love Again, at $2.4 million. Priyanka Chopra Jonas plays a young woman trying to cope with the death of her fiance. Trying to help her do so is journalist and – spoiler alert: eventual love interest – Rob Burns, played by Sam Heughan Celine Dion plays herself.

The film has a paltry 17 percent positive rating on website Rotten Tomatoes, with one critic calling it “lazy, misguided, and uninspired.” AFP

U.S. Navy band delivers allAmerican music in Manila

The U.S. Navy 7th Fleet Band performs at SM Megamall

The cast and producer of ‘Siglo ng Kalinga’ at the film’s red carpet premiere

A scene from the medical drama ‘Siglo ng Kalinga’

A look at Marvel's ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’

stars of Vivamax’s ‘Afam’

C4 TUESDAY, MAY 9, 2023

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

LIFE

A new era of sustainable and affordable living

AMAIA Steps Mandaue boasts a prime location that places you in proximity to some of Cebu’s most iconic establishments. With mid-rise condominiums, this project promises to be a gamechanger for Filipinos from all walks of life, offering them a luxurious yet affordable lifestyle. Prepare to be mesmerized by the beauty of this sustainable project, a true testament to the ingenuity and vision of its developers.

Take a stroll to the Cebu Business Park, unwind at Waterworld just 4.7 km away, swing your club at the Cebu Country Club Golf Course only 6.2 km away, or indulge in the bustling life of the Cebu I.T. Park just 7.1 km away.

By Angelica Villanueva

Not to mention, you’re only a mere 11.2 km away from the Mactan – Cebu International Airport, the gateway to your next adventure.

The development’s newest building, the South Tower, is set to welcome new residents before the year ends. Those who want to move in or rent units out as soon as possible can avail of the ReadyFor-Occupancy units the project offers.

With only nine floors and two buildings, this development is designed to provide a more intimate and exclusive living experience. The amenities such as the swimming pool, multipurpose hall, jogging path, indoor gym, and children’s play area are accessible to all

residents, but with fewer people utilizing them, residents can enjoy a more exclusive and personalized experience.

With the property managed by Ayala Property Management Corp., the property management arm of Ayala Land, residents can rest assured that the longterm viability and maintenance of the development are in capable hands.

For a limited time only, Amaia Steps Mandaue Savers promo allows interested parties to save as much as P700,000. The promo includes lower reservation fees, downpayment, outright discounts, free parking, and more on Studio, Deluxe, and Premier units that are flexible to be either 1 or 2-bedroom units.

Nickie Wang

Global sports brand shifts gears with unstoppable nationwide expansion

in Ma-

PUMA’S unstoppable expansion in the Philippines shows no sign of slowing down as the global sports brand proudly boasts 22 franchise stores nationwide. With more exciting stores set to open this quarter, Puma is rapidly be coming the go-to destination for sports enthusiasts in Metro Ma nila, Laguna, and Cebu.

Puma’s unstoppable growth contin ues as the brand expands its presence in key sports and lifestyle retailers across the Philippines, both online and offline. With a rapidly increasing reach nation wide, Puma is becoming an undeniable force in the world of sports and fashion.

Known to many, Filipinos are fond of sports and are savvy when it comes to their fashion having the country the po tential and opportunity for the German sports brand to showcase its wide range of products, said Puma Philippines Country Manager Paolo Misa

“This was a major factor in our de cision to come in stronger as a full-on subsidiary and increase our presence in every aspect of the business,” he added.

This year, the global sports brand officially began its campaign in intro ducing its sports apparel to the Filipino audience through a preview party of its street-style autumn/winter collection giving a brazen ode and homage to the streets and humans of Manila.

The AW23 collection showcased a range of activewear fitted for the sports and street-style-savvy Filipinos.

nationpotential and opportunity for the German dein officially began its campaign in introducing a show,

More than just a fashion show, the preview of the collection also narrated different stories of Filipinos – from its inherent confidence to its celebrated re siliency – that we witness every day in the streets of Manila.

Inspired by its “Forever Faster” mantra, Puma promised to play its part in nurturing sports in the country, “with emphasis on youth development.”

“For 75 years, Puma continues to push sports and culture forward by challenging conventions, innovating through design, and supporting the next generation. Through history, culture,

performance, and design, Puma is committed to being Forever Faster,” Puma South East Asia General Manager Sanjay Roy explained.

Furthermore, Puma plans to become more visible in terms of supporting key athletes, partnering with lifestyle icons, and pushing major events that are representative of the exciting categories that

the brand represents. The brand’s maiden fashion show also featured Pinoy movers, breakers, and game-changers in the Philippines, representing the brand’s four core values namely Pinoy bravery, confidence, determination, and joy – the same core values under the brand’s Forever Faster mantra.

A fresh perspective to improve your home’s appearance and functionality

Add a modern statement to your bedroom with the Canyon

Canopy Bed

Sink into the comfort of the Tidal Upholstered Sofa

EXPERIENCE the perfect blend of quality, craftsmanship, and timeless design at Crate and Barrel. Elevate your living space with our latest arrivals that feature vibrant earthy hues, natural woods, and clean lines - all designed to ensure long-lasting beauty.

The look this season is inspired by the lifestyle and natural beauty of the coast. Think laid-back vibes with a modern mindset – fresh finds for every room indoors or outdoors. Bring home stylish furniture and houseware to refresh your space and create a warm, inviting feel with natureinspired accents, pops of color, and artful patterns.

Transform your bedroom with the Canyon Canopy Bed, create your outdoor oasis with the Batten Collection, make a statement with the FSC-certified Ezra Natural Rye Wood Bar Cabinet,

go modern with the Tidal Upholstered Sofa, easily revamp with new pillows, décor, and throws or bring richness to your table with hand-dripped stoneware like the Café Collection.

Canyon Arched Canopy Bed

Leanne Ford’s sleek black metal Canyon canopy bed features a barrel shape with a neatly upholstered headboard in neutral polyester. The exclusive design adds a modern statement to your bedroom, reflecting Ford’s cool and effortless vibe.

Ezra Natural Rye Wood Bar Cabinet

Echoing the shifting perspectives of a Cubist painting, our Ezra bar cabinet rivets the room with a dynamic geometric facade. A puzzle of squares and rectangles conceals the cabinet’s doors and hidden finger pulls that open to a full-service interior. A natural rye finish

with ivory ceruse highlights the grain of oak and oak veneer and keeps the look light and fresh.

Tidal Upholstered Sofa

Sink into the comfort of Tidal knowing its upholstery includes recycled ocean plastic yarn with a micro-chenille weave. The sofa features a cushioned seat and pillow backs, set-back arms, an exposed seat deck, and an ash veneer plinth base for a modern look.

Café Bowl Collection

Brighten up your morning oatmeal or lunchtime soup with our cafe-inspired bowls. Crafted with subtle, widespaced ridges, the deep stoneware bowl is glazed by hand in vibrant colors. Discover these and more of Crate and Barrel’s newest arrivals that you’ll simply love to live with. Visit any Crate and Barrel store, order by phone, or shop online.

Former motorsports and racing driver Marlon Stöckinger, Miss International 2016 Kylie Versoza, and actor Daniel Matsunaga hit the AW23 collection runway. Model Santino Rosales, the son of renowned actor Jericho Rosales, also joined the fashion show.

and milestone with the introduction of pro-

fessional basketball player Kai Sotto as its first-ever Filipino brand ambassador. The brand surprised the preview party guests with a short video of Kai Sotto greeting Filipino fans. Stay tuned for more.

In addition to the brand’s expansion plans, Puma is also celebrating another

Puma’s AW23 collection will be available in the market starting this July.

Celebrating sneaker culture with art, music, and fashion

By Angelica Villanueva

DUBBED as “the biggest sneaker event” of the summer, sneakerheads and collectors celebrated sneaker culture through art, music, and fashion at Sneakerfest 2023, which ran from May 4 until May 7 at the Glorietta Activity Center. Avid fans and collectors get first dibs on the latest collections from their favorite sneaker brands and shops, such as Puma, Vans, Sole Academy, World Balance, and Philippine Sneaker Exchange.

The four-day event didn’t just offer a sneak peek of collector’s items but also showcases artwork from local artists at the Artist’s Nook section, featuring JP Pining, Nemo Aguila, and Chase Big Boy, the DJ, toy, and sneaker col-

lector, was also present at the event, showcasing his personal collection and favorite sneakers through an exhibit by Secret Fresh. Attendees also had the opportunity to win cool prizes from the claw machine and take part in completing the Sneakerfest 2023 wall mural while capturing moments at the photo booth.

On its first day, mallgoers were able to get a free cup of coffee with their purchase from the Sneaker Fair. Meanwhile, on May 5, the event allowed attendees to bring in their beloved pairs of sneakers that needed cleaning.

Today, May 6, customers will have the chance to have their favorite pair customized or attend a tote bag customization workshop. On its last day, special deals and big discounts were offered at the Sneaker Fair.

The development’s newest building, the South Tower, is set to welcome new residents before the year ends

The Sneaker Fair at the Glorietta Activity Center

Former motorsports and racing driver Marlon Stöckinger is all smiles

Miss International 2016 Kylie Versoza looking fabulous in Puma

The Ezra bar cabinet rivets the room with a dynamic geometric facade

Brighten up your meals with these cafe-inspired bowls

Arched

Santino Rosales modeling Puma apparel

Actor Daniel Matsunaga strutting down the runway