Manila Standard - 2023 May 23 - Tuesday

‘MANO PO’ GESTURE LAUDED AS SPEAKER, GMA, GONZALES STAND UNITED

By Maricel V. Cruz

ALL is well that ends well with a “mano po” gesture at the House of Representatives.

Speaker Martin Romualdez bowed and placed the hand of former President and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Arroyo on his forehead -- the traditional Filipino sign of respect for an elder -- during Monday’s House plenary session.

The gesture drew applause from the lawmakers present at the plenary, dousing speculations that the two allies have parted ways after Arroyo was replaced as senior deputy speaker.

Pampanga Rep. Aurelio Gonzales, who replaced Arroyo as senior deputy speaker, did the same honorific gesture.

Before his oathtaking, Gonzales fetched Arroyo from her seat and asked her to join them at the rostrum with Romualdez.

The former President then joined her two colleagues at the rostrum where the Speaker administered Gonzales’ oath of office.

Romualdez and Arroyo are stalwarts of LakasCMD. The Speaker is its president while Arroyo is the party’s chairman-emeritus.

SHOW OF RESPECT. Former President and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo is flanked by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez and Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales after both kissed the hand of the elder lawmaker (inset) and before Gonzales was sworn in as Senior Deputy Speaker on Monday.

Napoles beats graft charges

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE Sandiganbayan

First Division on Monday acquitted imprisoned former businesswoman Janet Lim Napoles in 16 graft cases in connection with the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) of Sen. Ramon Revilla Jr.

The Second Division, however, convicted Napoles for two counts of graft and two counts of malversation in another set of PDAF cases involving the late Davao del Sur Rep. Douglas Cagas.

The cases handled by the First Division were originally filed against Napoles and Revilla in 2014.

The anti-graft court acquitted Revilla in the plunder case in 2018 while Napoles and other accused individuals

7-hour fire guts iconic Post Office building, 11 injured

By Charles Dantes, Macon Ramos-Araneta and Maricel V. Cruz

A HUGE fire destroyed the historic post office in Manila late Sunday night, causing an estimated P300 million in damage.

More than 80 fire trucks were sent to the decades-old landmark after the blaze broke out,

Suspect in Degamo assassination recants testimony

By Rey Requejo

A DETAINED suspect in the killing of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel R. Degamo and nine other persons in Pamplona town has recanted the testimony he previously gave to the police about the murders, his counter-affidavit to the Department of Justice showed.

In his counter-affidavit submitted before the DOJ on Monday, Jhudiel R. Rivero, also known as Osmundo Rivero, claimed he

was tortured by the police to admit his participation in the Pamplona killings and to implicate suspended Negros Oriental Rep. Arnulfo Teves. Rivero was one of four suspects arrested after hot pursuit by the police after the March 4 incident.

However, the wife of the detained suspect “does not want to see him,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said on Monday, in response to the reported petition

Food stamps tack eyed via ADB aid

By Vince Lopez

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday said his administration is set to establish a nationwide food stamp program in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to help Filipino families who are experiencing hunger.

Mr. Marcos said the program, first proposed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), is among a string of projects the government has in the pipeline in partnership with the regional bank.

“One of the things that are in the pipeline that is being developed, that is going to be of great assistance to our people, is a proposal by the DSWD for a food stamp program, which I’m surprised that

By Darwin G. Amojelar and Vince Lopez

LAND Transportation Office (LTO) chief Jose Art Tugade resigned Monday, citing differences with his boss, Transport Secretary Jaime J. Bautista.

“Even as DOTR and LTO both aim to succeed in serving the public, our methods to achieve that success differ.

For this reason, I am stepping down, so Secretary Jimmy Bautista will have the free hand to choose who he can work best with,” Tugade said in a statement.

“I will continue to root for the LTO’s success even as a private citizen, because I will

Tugade

Jose Art

Gasoline up by 80c, diesel by 60c, as kerosene pump price cut by 10c

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE country’s oil firms raised the prices of gasoline by P0.80 per liter and diesel by P0.60 per liter effective 6 a.m. today (Tuesday) to re -

flect the movement of prices in the world market.

The price of kerosene, however, was reduced by P0.10 per liter.

The oil price hike this week is

Janet Lim Napoles

BURNING AT SUNRISE. The fire inside the Manila Central Post Office still rages on Monday morning despite the efforts of multiple firemen, over seven hours since it started late Sunday. The fire was raised to General Alarm by 5:54 a.m. and finally declared under control at 7:22 a.m. Norman Cruz

Jhudiel Rivero WARM WELCOME. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. beams as he is welcomed to the Mandaluyong

Armed groups hunted ahead of polls

By Charles Dantes

PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. has ordered all police offices and units nationwide to intensify operations against 48 private armed groups and loose firearms ahead of the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) scheduled for Oct. 30.

The PNP is continuously monitoring the activities of three active private armed groups and 45 potential groups that may mobilize for the upcoming polls, Acorda said in a statement on Monday.

The PNP said it is focusing more on Regions 3 (Central Luzon), 5 (Bicol), 6 (Western Visayas), 13 (Caraga), Cordillera Administrative Region, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Suspect...

Acorda said part of the early interventions are operations to take away firearms.

“We are focusing more on the preventive aspect of crime control as instructed by the President. This is done by taking away the instruments of crime and violence by also accounting for the criminal elements who set into motion the criminal motive,” Acorda said.

PNP Public Information Office chief Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan said that based

on their records, private armed groups are involved in murder and harassment cases.

Based on PNP data, a total of 10,971 loose firearms have been accounted for by the police while a total of 6,221 more guns were received in various police units across the country for safekeeping, mainly due to expired licenses, since January this year.

The same data revealed that a total of 27,948 wanted persons were either arrested or surrendered to the police.

“Aside from operations against wanted persons and loose firearms, the PNP also neutralized 187 criminal gangs with the arrest of 854 and surrender of 86 gang members, and confiscation of 126 firearms also since January this year,” Acorda said.

In accordance with Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution No.

10902, the 90-day election period for the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Election will commence on Aug. 28, with the filing of certificates of candidacy. Acorda said the PNP will strictly enforce all prohibited acts during the entire election period as enumerated under the Omnibus Election Code and resolutions passed by the Comelec.

“These prohibited acts include the bearing, carrying, or transporting firearms or other deadly weapons in public places including any building, street, park, private vehicle, or public conveyance unless authorized in writing by the Comelec and also prohibited during this period is the use of security personnel or bodyguards by candidates,” he said.

Gutierrez now PTFoMS head; new appointees named

House passes bunch of bills on 3rd reading

By Maricel V. Cruz

IT WAS business as usual at the House of Representatives as the chamber passed several bills on final reading in preparation for its scheduled sine die adjournment next week.

By Vince Lopez

for a writ of habeas corpus filed before the Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) by Rivero.

The three other arrested suspects had earlier been identified as Joric Garido Labrador, Joven Calibjo Javier, and Benjie Buladola R. Rodriguez.

“Family (wife) doesn’t want to talk to him, according to WPP (Witness Protection Program),” Remulla said of Rivero.

Earlier, Remulla had said that suspects in custody have expressed willingness to cooperate in the investigation in the March 4 killings.

Also, the Justice Secretary said the families of the suspects have asked that they be placed under the DOJ’s WPP for their protection.

Like them, Rivero was previously charged in court with illegal possession of firearms and explosives related to the assassination of Degamo.

With their arrests, the DOJ said the four suspects were initially charged before the Bayawan City RTC with three counts of illegal possession of firearms, ammunition, and explosives.

In previous statements, the Justice Department said the four suspects pointed to the participation of Marvin H. Miranda, the arrested bodyguard of Teves, in the killings.

The National Bureau of Investigation on May 17 filed complaints before the DOJ against Teves for 10 counts of murder, 14 counts of frustrated murder, and four counts of attempted murder.

As of Friday, the DOJ has yet to evaluate the complaints for action.

In his counter-affidavit, Rivero said in Filipino: “It’s not true that I know a person named Marvin. It is also not true that I pointed at the photo of Teves because I never knew him and have never met him. It is not true that I knew of the planning in the killing Degamo and it is not true that I am familiar with the guns and clothes used because I never used nor seen those.”

Rivero recounted that in the morning of March 5, 2023, he was arrested by police and taken to the PNP’s Provincial Intelligence Unit.

“When I was taken to the Provincial Intelligence Unit, they told me I was pointed at by three other suspects who got arrested and investigated over the planning and entering the Degamo family compount in Pamplona, Negros Oriental. I was tortured. I was suffocated by covering my head with a plastic bag and they used a wire to strangle me. I passed out and, when I regained consciousness, I noticed swelling on my neck that I still complain about.

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always share in Secretary Bautista’s belief that our offices can be a formidable force for good in our country,” he added.

Tugade, son of former Transport Secretary Arthur Tugade, resigned after his agency was criticized over the shortage of plastic cards for driver’s licenses, which prompted the agency to print out licenses on paper.

The agency also said license plates for motorcycles are expected to run out by June and those for four-wheeled vehicles by July.

The younger Tugade was first appointed as acting general manager of the Manila International Airport Authority but was reappointed as head of the LTO.

Bautista thanked Tugade for his seven-month stint as LTO chief, saying his pursuit of service innovations at LTO benefited the public.

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday appointed Paulino “Paul” Mahinay Gutierrez as the new Executive Director of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS), among a slew of appointments revealed by the Palace for positions in several agencies. Gutierrez was the Executive Director of the National Press Club and takes over with a rank of Undersecretary from another NPC veteran, Jose Joel Sy Egco.

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were found guilty.

Revilla was also eventually acquitted in 2021 in the graft cases after the court granted his demurrer to evidence. The First Division cited the failure of the prosecution to prove Napoles guilt beyond reasonable doubt.

The court said: “Considering that the charge of plunder against Revilla, his former political officer Atty. Richard Cambe and Napoles also constitute as graft since they are based on ‘predicate acts,’ the liability of the accused could no longer be determined as they were already included in the plunder case for which they were already prosecuted for.”

“This fact became even more apparent after the presentation of the same testimonial and documentary evidence in both cases,” the court added in the resolution written by Associate Justice Geraldine Faith Econg. Division Chairman Efren de La Cruz and Associate Justice Arthur Malabaguio concurred.

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Gonzales, on the other hand, belongs to the former ruling party, PDP-Laban.

Gonzales’ election prompted Arroyo to issue a statement denying rumors that she was behind a move to unseat Romualdez as Speaker.

Earlier in the day, the 51-strong Visayan Bloc in the House expressed

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higher than the first four days of trading forecast last week of about P0.10 to P0.40 per liter.

“Petron will implement the following price adjustments effective 6 a.m. on

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the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said.

Thick, black smoke billowed hundreds of meters into the sky as flames gutted the neo-classical Manila Central Post Office that overlooks the Pasig River.

It took firefighters more than seven hours to get the inferno under control.

“The whole building has burned down from the basement all the way to the fifth floor,” Postmaster General Luis Carlos told DZBB radio.

The fire broke out Sunday evening and reached the first alarm at 11:41 p.m. It escalated to general alarm, or its highest fire alarm level, at 5:54 a.m. on Monday and was declared under control at 7:22 a.m.

The cause of the blaze was being investigated, he said.

Fire brigades from across the capital deployed personnel to fight the blaze that

It was contained in an appointment paper released and confirmed by the Presidential Communications Office on Monday.

Philippine Information Agency Director General Mon Cualoping, however, resigned last night, saying he tendered it on April 4 to give PCO Secretary Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil a free hand “to choose whom she sees best” to lead the PIA.

Malacañan Palace also announced the latest appointments to the Marcos administration, made on May 17, at the

The anti-graft court also acquitted Gondelina Amata, Ofelia Ordoñez, Sofia Cruz, Evelyn Sucgang, Francisco Figura, Maria Rosalinda Lacsamana, Marivic Jover, Consuelo Lilian Espiritu, Victor Roman Cacal, and Maria Ninez Guanizo.

The First Division, however, found accused Dennis Cunanan, Gregoria Buenaventura, Rhodora Mendoza, Evelyn de Leon, Laarni Uy, and Jocelyn Piorato guilty and were meted out six to eight years of imprisonment and perpetual disqualification from public office.

The cases against accused Cambe, Eulogio Rodriguez, and Emmanuel Alexis Sevidal were dismissed due to their death.

The Sandiganbayan Second Division’s decision, on the other hand, stated that the Anti-Money Laundering Council report affirmed the testimony of whistleblower Benhur Luy that nongovernment organizations involved in the PDAF scheme were owned, controlled, and operated by Napoles.

Aside from Napoles, accused Belina Concepcion and Mylene Encarnacion, as

full support for Romualdez.

The bloc’s leader, Rep. Jose Francisco Benitez of Negros Occidental, said in a statement: “Speaker Romualdez has been a paragon of public service, demonstrating effective leadership through competence, diligence, and goodwill. We will continue to work with him to deliver on the President’s priority legislative agenda and uplift the lives of Filipinos.”

At least seven political blocs in the

May 23: P0.80 per li increase for gasoline; P0.60 per liter increase for diesel and P0.10 per liter rollback for kerosene. These reflect movements in the international oil market,” Petron Corp. said in its advisory. Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Cleanfuel, Seaoil Philippines, Jetti Petroleum, PTT Philippines, and Chevron Philip-

injured 11—nine firefighters, one volunteer, and a civilian. Damage from the fire is estimated to reach around P300 million.

Designed by architects Juan Arellano and Tomas Mapua, the Manila Central Post Office was built in 1926 and was once considered the “grandest building” in Manila, according to its website.

It was destroyed in World War II as US forces recaptured the capital from Japanese occupation forces, and was rebuilt in 1946.

The Philippine National Museum declared the building an “important cultural property” in 2018.

Letters, parcels, and the postal agency’s entire stamp collection were in the building and are likely destroyed, Carlos said, adding that they were looking at indemnity for burned parcels.

Mark Laurente, chief of staff of the postmaster general said the fire started in the basement storage rooms.

Structural engineers will assess the integrity of the building to determine if

Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).

Retired police chief superintendent Renato Gumban has been appointed Deputy Director General of PDEA, the PCO confirmed. Alvin Feliciano, who served as the chairman of the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor, was appointed as an assistant general manager of the National Housing Authority.

well as Maria Rosalinda Lacsamana were also found guilty by the court of graft.

“Unfortunately, accused Napoles, Encarnacion, and de Leon did not even present any evidence to debunk the above facts,” the anti-graft court said.

The court ordered Napoles, Concepcion, Encarnacion, and Lacsamana to indemnify the government P7.6 million, which was the amount of the PDAF “wrongfully and illegally” disbursed.

The four were also convicted of malversation and ordered to pay a fine of the same amount of P7.6 million.

Others who were implicated in the graft and malversation cases were acquitted, namely Mario Relampagos, Rosario Nuñez, Lalaine Paule, Marilou Bare, Dennis Cunanan, Francisco Figura, Marivic Jover, and Maurine Dimaranan, for the failure of the prosecution to prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Cagas was dropped from the cases following his death in 2021.

Napoles has been serving a 20- to 40year sentence in the Correctional Institution for Women after a Makati court convicted her of serious illegal detention.

House – Lakas-CMD, the National Unity Party (NUP), the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC), the Party-List Foundation Inc., (PCFI), PDP-Laban, the Nacionalista Party (NP), and the minority bloc – have all expressed support to the leadership of Romualdez.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday shrugged off insinuations that there is more to the movement at the House other than being “just a run of the mill” reorganization.

pines issued separate advisories on the latest domestic pump price movement.

World oil prices went up last week amid reports that leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations plan to tighten sanctions on Russia at their summit in Japan.

Reports that the US plans to purchase oil for its strategic petroleum reserve and the raging wildfires in Canada

it should be repaired or condemned.

The Philippine Statistics Authority said it is coordinating with the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) regarding the PhilIDs that may have been destroyed in the fire.

Based on the initial reports from PHLPost, an undetermined number of national IDs that were supposed to be delivered in Manila were destroyed in the fire. The PSA said it would replace all affected IDs without charging the registered persons.

In the next few days, the Manila Central Post Office operations will be moved to the Foreign Surface Mail Distribution Center (FSMDC) building, Carlos said.

The corporate offices will be housed at the building beside the burned post office and at the canteen area, he added.

Manila Mayor Honey Lacuña said the city would coordinate with the national government to restore the gutted post office.

Senator Robin Padilla called for a congressional inquiry into the fire “with the

Among the bills passed on the third and final reading were the measures increasing disability pensions for military veterans, dependents, establishing voucher system for poor students in tertiary education, institutionalizing ‘One Town, One Product’ program to boost MSMEs, and strengthening IPOPHL, efforts against piracy, counterfeiting; declaring August 1 a special working holiday to commemorate the declaration of Philippine Independence; and on discounted waived fees on pre-employment requirements for indigent jobseekers Voting 268 against zero and one abstention, lawmakers approved House Bill (HB) 7939 or “An Act Rationalizing the Disability Pension of Veterans,” which amends Republic Act 6948 as amended by RA 7696, or the laws that standardized and upgraded the benefits for military veterans and their dependents. RA 6948 and RA 7696 were enacted in 1990 and 1994, respectively. HB 7939 seeks to increase the pensions mandated under these laws.

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we have never had, but it is something that we can see that has been effective in other countries,” he told reporters during his visit to the ADB headquarters in Mandaluyong City on Monday.

An estimated 3 million Filipino families experienced hunger at least once in the last three months of 2022 – or leading into the Christmas holidays -- a survey by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) released in January showed.

The national survey of 1,200 adults found that 11.8 percent of Filipino families experienced involuntary hunger, which means being hungry and not having anything to eat, in the fourth quarter of last year.

The number of families facing hunger from October to December was highest in Mindanao at 12.7 percent, followed by the Visayas at 12 percent, Metro Manila at 11.7 percent, and Balance Luzon at 11.3 percent.

“It has been highest in Mindanao in 38 out of 100 surveys since July 1998,” the SWS noted.

During his visit to the ADB, Mr. Marcos met with the bank’s president, Masatsugu Asakawa, to discuss present and future projects geared toward the Philippines’ post-pandemic recovery and climate change resilience.

The President also discussed with the ADB guests and officials the 8-point socioeconomic agenda of his administration, wherein laid the blueprint for the Philippine Economic Development Plan for 2023 to 2028.

fueled supply worries and also influenced domestic pump price movement. Analysts also took notice of the latest report of the International Energy Agency, which raised its forecast for world oil demand growth in 2023 to 2.2 million barrels per day, with China’s rebound even stronger than previously expected.

aim of revisiting and strengthening policies for the preservation and protection of cultural properties against fire and other hazards.”

“This recent incident underscores the vulnerability of our national cultural heritage to fire and other hazards and highlights the urgent need to revisit and assess the effectiveness of existing preservation and protection measures,” he said in his resolution.

“It is of public interest to provide policies that will prevent or mitigate the effect of fire and other hazards to protect and preserve our national cultural heritage,” he added.

“The Manila Central Post Office is a tangible representation of the nation’s culture and history, and its damage is a blow to the country’s cultural heritage,” he said.

House Deputy Speaker and Batangas City Rep. Ralph Recto on Monday called for the immediate reconstruction of the post office. With Julito G. Rada and AFP

‘PH now focused on post-COVID recovery’

By Vince Lopez

THE government can now refocus on the country’s economic development following the announcement by the World Health Organization (WHO) that COVID-19 no longer represents a global health emergency, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Monday.

Mr. Marcos mentioned this during a reception hosted by the Asian Development Bank in Mandaluyong City, as he expressed gratitude to the Manila-based lender for all its assistance to the Philippines, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“With this development, we can now refocus our plans and priorities and train our

INBRIEF

Immunize babies, Mayor Joy tells QC

QUEZON City Mayor Joy Belmonte on

Monday urged parents to have their babies immunized against vaccine-preventable diseases, such as measles, rubella, and polio, under the Chikiting Ligtas program.

To further ramp up the immunization activity, she instructed the health workers to strategically put up temporary vaccination posts in markets and covered courts. She said there is a need to conduct house-to-house inoculation activities for children in the most remote corners of the communities.

“Vaccine is the most effective and efficient way to protect our children. That is why our health workers would go around even in small alleys and inner streets to ensure that children are protected vaccinepreventable diseases,” the mayor cited.

The city government aims to vaccinate 230,347 children ages five years and below (0 to 59 months) with the measles vaccine, and 270,977 kids (0 to 59 months) with the oral polio vaccine this month. Rio N. Araja

Man behind ‘beggar syndicate’ arrested

ANGELES CITY—The city government here nabbed a man allegedly involved in a “beggar syndicate” by bringing indigenous people to the public market daily to beg for alms.

The man, identified as Daniel Lingad, 57, is currently facing charges for allegedly violating Republic Act 9208, also known as Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003.

Lingad, a resident of Barangay Pandan and a jeepney driver plying the Pampang-Pandan route, has allegedly been using his public transportation to fetch and transfer the IPs, as captured by the city’s CCTV records.

Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. condemned this act, saying that the city’s task force team will continue the strict reinforcement of the anti-mendicancy law.

Lazatin said the city government is also continuously conducting rescue operations throughout the city to eradicate begging and alms-giving. Butch Gunio

Lumontad tapped to lead BOC Limay

ALEXANDRA Y. Lumontad is the new district collector of Bureau of Customs

Port of Limay.

Outgoing district collector William Balayo officially handed over leadership responsibilities to his successor on Monday at the Port of Limay in Bataan.

Balayo said the event signifies the smooth transition of power at the port and reinforces the Bureau of Customs’ commitment to operational efficiency and exceptional service.

Expressing his gratitude, Balayo acknowledged the unwavering support of the personnel and stakeholders during his tenure.

He highlighted the remarkable achievements and milestones attained under his leadership, praising the dedication and hard work of the entire team. In her address, Lumontad expressed her gratitude for the trust placed in her and assured everyone of her dedication to maintaining momentum and further improving the port’s efficiency. Butch Gunio

size with renewed vigor, carefully guided by the stinging lessons of the pandemic, we can now refocus our priorities on the development of our economy and the betterment of the lives of ordinary Filipinos,” the President said.

However, the COVID-19 positivity rate in the National Capital Region (NCR) in-

creased slightly last week to 25.7%, data released Monday by independent monitoring group OCTA Research showed. OCTA fellow Dr. Guido David said NCR’s positivity rate — the percentage of people who were found positive for COVID-19 among the total number of individuals tested — was “almost flat” from 25.4% on May 13, to 25.7% on May 20.

“In NCR, it was almost flat from 25.4% to 25.7% suggesting that it may be decreasing this week,” he said in a tweet. David said, however, that the WHO’s declaration does not mean abandoning the universal health protocols.

“Thankfully, because of swift breakthroughs in virology and vaccinology, communities were able to build effective response systems while humanity was

VESPA DAY EVENT. Over 1,000 members of 49 Vespa Clubs across Metro Manila gather at the MOA Globe to celebrate Vespa Day sponsored by Army Navy. With the help of the Highway Patrol Group and the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the pack went from EDSA to Andres Bonifacio Bonifacio Circle in Caloocan and back to Okada

able to boost its immune system,” Mr. Marcos said.

The President recalled that when he met with the ADB’s Board of Governors last September, he highlighted the need for the Philippines to “safely navigate through the waters of the post-pandemic world.”

“The pandemic did not blur our national vision... Our goal remains to be the same as in pre-pandemic circumstances. Our goal is to evolve our economy into one that is defined by sustainability, climate resilience, responsiveness, and of course inclusivity,” Mr. Marcos said.

A Reuters report said the WHO’s emergency committee first declared that COVID represented its highest level of alert on January 30, 2020. The status helps focus international attention on a health threat

as well as bolstering collaboration on vaccines and treatments.

Lifting it is a sign of the progress the world has made in these areas, but COVID-19 is here to stay, the WHO has said, even if it no longer represents an emergency.

Meanwhile, Mr. Marcos expressed hope that the ADB will continue “to be there by our side to lend its support throughout our transformative journey.”

In another development, Isabela’s positivity rate soared to 67.4% from 36.6%, over the same period.

Other provinces also posted high positivity rates such as Bataan, Batangas, Benguet, Bulacan, Cagayan, Camarines Sur, Cavite, La Union, Laguna, Oriental Mindoro, Palawan, Pampanga, Quezon, Rizal, and Zambales.

Immigration, travel agencies to sign pact vs. tra icking

By Vito Barcelo

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) will sign a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with travel agencies to strengthen the fight against trafficking.

The collaborative effort, according to BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco, seeks to strengthen the commitment of the private sector to thwarting trafficking activities.

A similar agreement is likewise being eyed with both airline and shipping companies.

may enter PAR by Friday; DOH on alert

THE state weather bureau on Monday said it is monitoring a tropical cyclone that may develop into a super typhoon outside the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) but enter it by Friday.

In its latest public weather forecast, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the cyclone -- international name "Mawar" -- was last seen 2,330 km east of Mindanao.

The typhoon has maximum sustained winds of 130 kph near the center and gusts of up to 160 kph. It is moving westnorthwestward at 15 kph.

Once inside, it will be given the local name "Betty" and is forecast to enhance the southwest monsoon, the bureau said. Weather forecaster Anna Clauren-

Jorda said there is a low probability of the cyclone making landfall in the Philippines.

The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday advised Filipinos to prepare for the tropical storm that could enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility late this week and possibly develop into a super typhoon.

In an advisory, the DOH said that its Health Emergency Management Bureau Operation Center is monitoring the possible effects of Typhoon Mawar in the country.

“In anticipation of the progress of this Tropical Storm, the DOH advises the public to prepare and report any untoward incident that may later be related to this weather disturbance,” the agency said.

The DOH also encouraged the public to contact their respective local disaster and emergency risk team for assistance in case of emergency.

As part of preparations for the incoming storm, the DOH advised the public to prepare an emergency go bag that includes ready-to-eat food, clothes, first aid kit, tools, sleeping bags, and COVID-19 protection kit, among others.

The public was also urged to prepare their homes for possible flooding; understand signs of an emergency; and get ready in case evacuation is necessary.

Most parts of the country will continue to experience rain showers due to the southwesterly wind flow and localized thunderstorms on Tuesday, the bureau added. Rio N.

Araja

“This is inspired by the US model, where airline employees play a crucial role in reporting potential cases of trafficking. We recognize the immense value of partnerships between law enforcement agencies and the private sector. As seen in incidents in the US, collaborations among agencies are instrumental in identifying and preventing trafficking incidents,” Tansingco said.

Meanwhile, a 43-year-old female was intercepted at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 in an attempt to leave the country with fake travel documents.

The victim, whose name was withheld following anti-trafficking laws, was intercepted while attempting to board a Philippine Airlines flight bound for Singapore.

The BI-Travel Control and Enforcement Unit (TCEU) report said that upon primary inspection, the immigration officers doubted the authenticity of her travel authority and referred her for secondary inspection.

Upon closer scrutiny, it was confirmed that the travel authority—a document required of all government employees stating that their agency has approved their travel abroad—was indeed fake.

Marcos gov’t to execute all signed peace agreements, says Purisima

THE Marcos administration is determined to build on the gains of the comprehensive Philippine peace process by sustaining its momentum and pushing forward with the implementation of all signed peace agreements.

This was emphasized by acting Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Isidro Purisima to participants of the Mindanao Development Forum 2023 spearheaded by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) on May 18.

In a statement Sunday, Purisima stressed that peace and development “must always go hand in hand” and should be pursued with the “same level of intensity and vigor" in his talk to representatives of national line agencies, official development assistance (ODA) community, and diplomatic corps.

He noted that the dividends of peace are now being felt across the island region, as evidenced by the decreasing poverty rates

Put in the work, law prof urges PCU HS graduates

LAW professor Tranquil Salvador told senior and junior high school graduating students of the Philippine Christian University to “pour in hours and hours of committed work” to achieve the level of competence in their chosen business or profession.

“In this digital age, there is this notion that everything can be accessed by browsing using your fingers, and this includes access to information,” he told 1,400 graduating students at their commencement exercises at the bayside Philippine International Convention Center.

“It may even lead you to believe that what you can perceive you can achieve (but) this is only partly true. In between perceiving and achieving are hours, days, months, years, and decades of dedication, hard work, and

sacrifices to achieve your goals,” Salvador, who writes a column in the Manila Standard, said in his speech.

He shared with the graduates, led by senior high valedictorian Dhenzo Tyler Montojo and junior high valedictorian Judiel Charl Del Rosario, lessons he learned as a teenager from his misadventures.

“I thoroughly believe there is as much to gain from misadventures as there are from achievements,” said Salvador, listed among the Top 100 Lawyers in the Philippines for 2021 and 2022 by the Asia Business Law Journal.

But he said: “Misadventures, mistakes, and slips are instrumental in the formation of a young mind. I am by no means encouraging you to make mistakes or engage in adventurism. All we are saying is that missteps

can offer wisdom in retrospect or what we know as 20/20 hindsight vision.”

Salvador, who teaches law at the Ateneo de Manila University, University of the Philippines, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, and the University of Makati, then told his audience some lessons he said could help them.

“I learned early in life that there is a God who I can depend on—for those who have a different religion but believe in a Divine Being you know what I mean.

“Challenges are mere stepping stones... find what you love to do and work hard to achieve it.”

He quoted his father as saying there is no substitute for preparation, stressing “We have to persevere and work to achieve our goals in life.” Honor Blanco Cabie

in the Bangsamoro and the decision of former rebels to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law, among others.

“This is the reason why the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) is employing cross-cutting strategies to implement an integrated, transparent, people-centered, and human rights-based peace and security policy,” Purisima said.

He also added that all of OPAPRU’s peacebuilding interventions, particularly in conflict-vulnerable and conflict-affected areas in Mindanao, are dovetailed to the current administration’s Philippine Development Plan 2023 – 2028.

In the implementation of the Bangsamoro peace process, he said the agency is focused on ensuring that former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants are able to successfully reintegrate into mainstream society.

Vince Lopez

‘Mawar’

Casino. They will bid for the Vespa World Days 2025 hosting in cooperation with the Department of Tourism (DOT).

SCENE OF SHABU. Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa inspects a money-lending o ce in Tondo, Manila owned by former Police Master Sergeant Rodolfo Mayo, one of the suspects in the P6.7-billion illegal drug case, on Monday. Police discovered a total of 990 kilograms of shabu at the o ce following the arrest of Mayo last October. Dela Rosa was joined by Senator Robinhood Padilla and PCapt. Jonathan Sosongco, head of the PNP’s Drug Enforcement Group-Special Operations Unit, who the Senate cited for contempt for giving contradicting statements to Dela Rosa’s panel. Danny Pata COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER. Law professor and Manila Standard columnist Tranquil Salvador (second from right) is anked by o cials of Philippine Christian University after telling the school’s high school graduates to ‘pour in hours and hours of committed work’ to achieve the level of competence in their chosen business or profession.

Consumer group urges gov’t to set up connectivity rating for internet

CONSUMER advocacy group CitizenWatch

Philippines said the government should work with the private sector in establishing an easy-to-understand connectivity rating system that will serve as a benchmark for property owners and government institutions in providing the right level of connectivity to the volume of their user traffic.

“We have long suffered a mismatch between demand for internet services in public spaces and the quality provided by those in charge of these spaces,” said Atty.

Tim Abejo, co-convenor of CitizenWatch Philippines.

“The administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., given its avowed commitment to digitally transform the country, should engage in a public-private collaboration that would establish a Connectivity Index Rating in all public and private buildings.”

According to Abejo, the Connectivity Index should be easy to understand and should be displayed prominently in public spaces to give people an idea of the quality of the Internet connection inside the premises.

“Good connectivity is always an asset for any building, including malls, libraries, hotels, coffee shops, even airports. It is a necessity for communications and work productivity,” Abejo said.

“Having a connectivity index rating of an establishment publicly displayed or available online will affect the image of an institution and will force building owners to take steps to ensure high-quality digital connectivity for their users.”

There is currently no means to ascertain the quality of connectivity on any given building anywhere in the Philippines.

As a result, Abejo said, building tenants, customers, and the general public have no way of knowing whether they could even go online when they are out in these places.

LTO imposes max rates for med exam for driver’s license

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has set the cost of medical examination for driver’s license and student permit applications to a maximum rate of P300 in its accredited medical clinics.

In a statement Monday, outgoing LTO chief Assistant Secretary Jay Art Tugade said the move is in response to complaints about the high prices of medical exams which cost between P500 and P700.

Mabigat na ang halaga na ito para sa ating mga ordinaryong mamamayan (This is a huge amount for ordinary citizens),” Tugade said. Health facilities and medical clinics found violating the order face suspension of their accreditation for 90 days and fine of P10,000 for the first offense.

For the second offense, violators face a 180day suspension and P15,000 fine and perpetual disqualification for the third offense.

Under Memorandum Circular 2018-2157 signed on Nov. 27, 2018, the agency can regulate medical examination fees although the maximum amount is not stated.

“Accredited medical clinics have several variances of fees and charges causing discrepancy of rates. For standardization, the LTO deemed it proper and necessary to set the specific maximum medical examination fees to be charged from driver-applicant by accredited medical clinics,” the circular read.

The new memorandum circular signed by Tugade takes effect 15 days after its national publication.

IN BRIEF

Solon renews call for a department of

sports, culture

PUWERSA ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA) Rep.

Margarita Nograles has renewed calls to create a Department of Sports, Culture, and Arts which would focus on programs aimed at improving the country’s global standing in the field of sports, culture, and arts.

In filing House Bill 03597, Nograles cited a need to “create an inclusive body that will recognize a strong nation that focuses and recognizes our Filipino Athletes and Cultural Artists.”

The lawmaker said many Filipinos have been very successful in various international sporting events and have won global recognition for their contribution to promoting Filipino culture and arts.

If passed into law, the DSCA will have administrative and operational jurisdiction over the Philippine Sports Commission, the Games and Amusement Board, and the National Commission on Culture and the Arts which are all under the Office of the President.

Through the DSCA, Nograles hopes that Filipino athletes and artists will be given more incentives and will have better economic opportunities. Maricel V. Cruz

US National Guard keen on bilateral ties with PH army

THE US National Guard is interested in pursuing more bilateral engagements with the Philippine Army (PA) to beef up the service’s capabilities to respond to disasters and national emergencies.

This came after US National Guard Bureau chief Gen. Daniel Robert P. Hokanson paid a courtesy call at PA headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila where he was

Speaker backs onion retail price plan

By Maricel V. Cruz

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Monday welcomed the move of the Department of Agriculture (DA) to impose a suggested retail price (SRP) for onions to protect consumers from profiteers and price manipulators as he also pressed for a crackdown against the onion cartel.

Earlier a ranking official of the DA said the department will likely start Tuesday, or within this week, the implementation of an SRP of P150 per kilo for red onions and P140 per kilo for white onions with a warning that refusal to comply could mean prosecution under

appropriate charges.

“The imposition of a Suggested Retail Price for onions, particularly now that market prices are on the uptrend anew, will shield our consumers from unconscionably high prices,” Romualdez said.

“But extreme care should be taken to ensure that in the imposition of the SRP, the interest of stakeholders such as the consumers, the traders, the market vendors, and especially our onion farmers are suitably protected,” he added. Still, Romualdez believes the imposition of the SRP alone would not address the recurring problem of wild price fluctuations of onion.

“As the hearings of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food have indicated, dismantling the onion cartel is a key element in ensuring the stable price of this commodity. Unless we destroy this cartel, this problem will haunt us again and again in the future,” he stressed.

CORDIAL MEETING.

Indian Ambassador to the Philippines Shambhu Kumaran pays a courtesy call on Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez at the House of Representatives Monday afternoon. Ver Noveno

Earlier, Romualdez urged authorities like the National Bureau of Investigation, the Philippine Competition Commission, and the DA to work together and pursue the leads obtained in the congressional hearings to build an airtight case against the onion cartel.

“Putting members of this cartel behind bars will send the unmistakable message that the government will not tolerate any unfair trade practices that prey on the hapless consumer and farmers," Romualdez said. At the same time, Romualdez called for appropriate government assistance and incentives for farmers—particularly those growing onions—to encourage additional production and ensure ample supply.

BOC joins forces with US Embassy to stop smuggling

By Julito G. Rada

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has joined forces with the US Embassy to combat smuggling and enhance customs expertise.

The BOC and the US Embassy-Manila Special Operations Command Pacific INDOPACOM Augmentation and Philippines Information Team convened on May 18, 2023, for a consultative meeting.

The meeting aims to explore potential areas of cooperation, intensify border control, and strengthen the relationship between the two agencies.

During the meeting, officials from both agencies discussed various topics, including cooperation opportunities in law enforcement, maritime operations, investigations, capacity building, and advanced technology implementation.

welcomed by Army chief of staff Maj. Gen.

Potenciano C. Camba last May 20.

“During the courtesy call, Gen. Hokanson stated the willingness of the US National Guard Bureau to conduct bilateral engagements with the PA especially on upgrading the humanitarian response to disasters and national emergencies,” Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement Sunday night.

Hokanson also visited the Philippines to observe the State Partnership Program of the country with the National Guard counterparts in Guam and Hawaii.

“The formal visit also discussed the reserve force development and the best practices in the management of the reserve component of the two countries,” the PA spokesperson noted.

DOJ vows to uphold rights of persons with HIV, AIDS

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) has vowed to continue to uphold the rights of people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

“We have championed their rights,” said Deputy State Prosecutor Margaret Castillo-Padilla, DOJ advocate for people living with HIV (PLHIV).

“We have supported activities and programs that are meant to break the stigma and discrimination against PLHIV and fostered partnership with other government agencies and civil society organizations to ensure that their civil, social, political and economic rights are protected,” Padilla added.

According to Padilla, the DOJ’s stand during the annual International AIDS Candlelight Memorial held at the DOJ on Monday morning, May 22.

“The DOJ is also the first government agency to have adopted its own workplace policy,” she noted.

The DOJ official recalled that in 2021, then justice secretary and now Solicitor General Menardo I. Guevarra issued Department Order (DO) No. 107, the Workplace Policy and Education Program on HIV and AIDS. Rey E. Requejo

Ejercito: Automation will be needed to fight, end corruption at Customs

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

S ENATOR Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito on Monday said modernizing and automating the Bureau of Customs (BOC) will address corruption in the agency. He said this will also reduce “human discretion” in the BOC’s critical operations and assessments.

In a media interview, Ejercito, one of the principal authors of the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Law, said automation will prevent assessment officers from manipulating the value of goods entering the country.

AIDS CANDLELIGHT MEMORIAL.

Department of Justice (DOJ) Undersecretary Brigido Dulay led the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial held at the DOJ headquarters on May 22 to commemorate the people who have lost their lives to HIV-related complications.

Norman Cruz

“They cannot automate and since their computerization was delayed, there will be human discretion,” he said. “If the BOC is not computerized, if there’s human discretion, if there were erasures, we know what happened,” he said.

The lawmaker from San Juan said he has received reports that the assessed value of a given product entering the country would sometimes differ across ports.

Ejercito called on the national government to resume and expedite the BOC’s modernization program to address these discrepancies in the assessment of goods entering the country.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the provision of technical expertise and skills building that the US Embassy intends to extend to the BOC Enforcement and Security Service (BOC-ESS).

The BOC was represented by Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio, Deputy Commissioner Teddy aval, division chiefs, heads of ESS, the Financial Management Office, the External Affairs Office, and the Interim Training Development Division.

From the US Embassy, Jason Perez, officerin-charge of Special Operations Command Pacific, and Patrick Braun, Chief of the Information Support Team, attended the meeting. Rubio said the establishment of a strong collaboration between the Customs and the US Embassy will undoubtedly enhance the capabilities and technical know-how of Customs personnel.

“This will create opportunities to intensify border protection and combat smuggling further,” Rubio said.

COOLING OFF. Farmer Fernando Sumilades bathes his horse in the Dumacaa River in Tayabas City, Quezon to beat the scorching heat. The weather bureau said that there is a 90-percent chance that El Niño will persist until the first quarter of 2024. Danny Pata

Continuing conundrum over LBP-DBP merger

It is now all up to the Department of Energy how the new consortium will perform.

In a statement, the DOE said under Service Contact 38 the consortium is required to continue production operations, as well as to conduct a minimum work program consisting of geological and geophysical studies and the drilling of at least two deep water wells during the sub-phase 1 from 2024 to 2029.

Laguna de Bay’s algal bloom

THERE seems to be no end to the debates over the proposed merger of the Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines, with officers and personnel of the DBP also continuing their protests.

The DBP believes that with the merger, and with LBP as the surviving bank, it will be the DBP that will suffer retrenchment.

I have written the pros and cons of the proposed merger with the proposed merger having more cons, since it will create a huge retrenchment at the expense of the DBP.

Another con is the proposed merger will create such a behemoth financial institution for the government that could well impact against the private sector banking system with thousands of branches at almost every nook and corner of the country as a result of the merger.

Santa Banana, I also believe there’s some kind of conflict of interest on the part of Finance

Secretary Benjamin Diokno who is the main proponent of the merger since Diokno is the exofficio chairman of the LBP.

The problem, however, is, how far can the remaining gas system go since studies have shown the remaining deep water-gas reserve may not be enough to last 15 years.

And that’s for the DOE to study and confirm.

BBM would not have extended the project for another 15 years if he had not been advised by the DOE that the remaining gas reserves are adequate.

But, what is disturbing is the latest word from DOE Secretary Raphael Lotilla that the remaining gas reserves may not last long.

If that is true, BBM could fire the energy secretary, which in effect could make Marcos Jr. a big liar.

***

Return to masking

With some local government units (LGUs) reimposing the mask mandate following the surge of COVID-19 cases brought about by the Omicron sub variant XBB.1.16 Arcturus, a subvariant which is highly transmissible, health experts say there’s need for the Department of Health to reimpose a nationwide mask mandate.

The Mayor of Manila Honey Lacuna had required the masking mandate at the Manila City Hall, and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong had all Baguio City residents and visitors also wearing masks indoors and outdoors.

There had been reports that the uptick of COVID-19 cases had occurred in many provinces and cities, particularly in the National Capital Region and in Metro Manila.

The positivity rate in fact hit more than 25 percent requiring hospitals to reopen their COVID-19 wards.

While the DOH and health experts said the surge of COVID-19 cases may not be as alarming as it was in the past.

But it would do well for the DOH to warn LGUs that there is need for caution, and there’s need for the elderly and those with illnesses to be cautioned.

RECENTLY, the country’s largest lake Laguna de Bay opened out in news broadcasts and newspapers because of the reported algal bloom, a high-speed increase in algae density in the 2.8-meter deep lagoon.

Algal blooms are natural phenomena, but their frequency, duration and intensity are increased by nutrient pollution.

Good thing the Muntinlupa City Health Office was quick on the draw and assured lakeshore residents the algal bloom in the 900-square-km Laguna de Bay does not pose a threat to public health.

Experts have said exposure to high levels of blue-green algae and their toxins can cause diarrhea, nausea or vomiting; skin, eye or throat irritation; and allergic reactions or breathing difficulties.

Drinking algae-affected water or consuming food (such as fish or shellfish) containing toxins can lead to gastroenteritis, which can induce vomiting, diarrhea, fevers and headaches.

These toxins may also affect the liver or nervous system, according to experts.

Concerns associated with blue-green algae include discolored water, reduced light penetration, taste and odor problems, dissolved oxygen depletions during dieoff and toxin production.

Government data showed about 60 percent of the estimated 8.4 million people residing in the Laguna de Bay

Region discharge their solid and liquid wastes indirectly to the lake through its tributaries.

Shaped like a crow’s foot, with two peninsulas jutting out from the northern shore and filling the large volcanic Laguna Caldera, it drains its water to Manila Bay via the Pasig River.

Environmental concerns like water quality problems created by population pressure and industrialization, invasive

Betrayal in politics

Let’s rewind a bit and note that the law that created LBP mandated it to provide assistance to the agriculture sector.

On the other hand, my gulay, the law that created the DBP mandated it to provide assistance to the industrial sector.

Recall that the DBP used to be the Rehabilitation Financing Corp., created after the war to provide assistance for the rehabilitation of the Philippines.

With the merger, Santa Banana, what government bank will provide assistance to the industries?

With the creation of a behemoth financial institution with the merger of the LBP and DBP, I see no benefit at all for the government.

That, to me, is the strongest argument against the merger. This and aside from the fact that since both the LBP and the DBP were created by separate laws by Congress, the proposed merger simply cannot be done by an executive order.

From my point of view, this is where the danger lies, Santa Banana, on the proposed merger simply by an executive order.

I can almost predict that some legislators will oppose the merger by President Marcos Jr. merely issuing an executive order.

Diokno predicts that the merger will be finished by the end of the year. I doubt it.

***

Malampaya contract extended 15 years

The extension of 15 years by President Marcos Jr. of Service Contract 38 to a new consortium replacing Shell and Caltex in the exploration of gas to power at Malampaya off Palawan is expected to guarantee energy to the Philippines, especially Luzon – a step in the right direction.

The new consortium given the 15-year extension are Ricky Razon’s Prime Energy Resources Development B.V, UC38 LLC of the Udenna Group of Dennis Uy of Davao City, and the state-run Philippine National Oil-Exploration Corp (PNOC). The Malampaya project is a deep well gas power plant providing 20 percent of Luzon’s energy needs.

Through the project, the government was able to generate P374 billion revenue, P26 billion of which was earned in 2022 alone.

Records show the past consortium of Shell, Caltex and the PNOC has been remitting 60 percent of the proceeds from petroleum operations to the government. The consortium has remitted more than US$13.14 billion to the government from October 2001 to December 2022.

My wife and I, since we are very elderly and susceptible to the COVID-19 transmission, always wear masks when out of our house, both. indoors and outdoors.

Somebody asked me if there’s a need for all these precautions, after the World Health Organization lifted its Public Health Emergency of International Concern for COVID-19.

As I have been saying all along, experts say while the WHO ended the global emergency status for COVID-19, in the Philippines the DOH should warn the public that COVID-19 is here to stay, like the flu, pneumonia, TB, cholera, dengue and other known illness.

It’s always best for the people to be cautious.

The surge and uptick of COVID-19 cases may not be alarming as in the past, but caution is needed.

***

Tourism slogan

It would do well for Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco to realize that the success of any tourism plan or program does not depend entirely on slogans or high-sounding plans.

Any tourism secretary must realize that marketing is first and foremost in any tourism program, and marketing can only succeed in the ability of the tourism department to sell the country.

Marketing includes advertising the Philippines all over the world, particularly over television, like CNN.

Advertising is one, selling the country abroad is another, which requires the tourism secretary to go abroad to sell the country and this needs funding.

And that’s the reason why there must be separate funding of the tourism department just to sell the country abroad.

What I am saying is the tourism secretary must travel abroad and conduct sales blitzes. A tourism secretary must be a salesman and sell the country.

Secretary Frasco must also solicit the help of the foreign affairs department to help in advertising the tourist spots of the country , with brochures and posters to enable foreign tourists to realize where they must go when they travel abroad.

Most importantly, the DOT secretary herself must engage in missions abroad accompanied by the country’s beauty queens to advertise the Philippines as a country of beautiful women.

In other words, to attract foreign tourists, there is no substitute to “selling” the country to make foreign tourists see and experience what the Philippines is -- a country not only with unparalleled hospitality but a “beautiful country.”

THERE we go again. Trapo (traditional and transactional) politics on display.

The worst of Philippine politics. There is no policy issue being debated, no vision of society being contested. What we are seeing is a display of naked power and blatant self-interest.

Social media is abuzz with the resignation of Vice President Sara Duterte from her political party Lakas-CMD, after an uproarious day at the House of Representatives involving its top party leaders, Speaker Martin Romualdez and former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

After former President Gloria MacapagalArroyo was ousted as senior deputy speaker at the House of Representatives, Duterte resigned, although she did not give a specific reason for her resignation. But she cited “political toxicity.”

I will not be surprised if she will let go or be asked to let go of her position as Secretary of Education. She is not qualified for that position and has not been doing well, alienating many sectors.

It is best if she maximizes the Vice-Presidency so that further harm to our educational system is prevented.

While Duterte made the dramatic move to enable her to “meaningfully serve” fellow Filipinos and the Philippines – with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. leading the way, political analysts see thru the real reason behind such a move.

Opposition leader and Albay 1st District Rep. Edcel Lagman said the removal of former president and now Pampanga 2nd District Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo from her senior deputy speaker role and Vice President Sara Duterte’s resignation from Lakas-CMD are linked. He further said, and I agree, the recent events involving the administration’s allies also show the positioning for the 2028 presidential polls has started already. Believe me when a politician employs doublespeak or makes promises such as “public welfare, common good,” or “meaningful service” that one cannot accept it lock, stock, and barrel.

In fact, the default must be to take a politician’s statements with a grain of salt. We have enough experience with political reality to see thru the real intent behind it. Today, political dynasties and celebrities dominate our politics.

There is the absence also of genuine opposition.

The dominance of the ruling party limits the opportunities for opposition parties to gain traction and influence.

The concentration of power can lead to limited checks and balances, which is essential for a healthy democracy.

Moreover, strong executive powers can limit the effectiveness of the opposition, as the ruling party often controls key government institutions and resources.

species and over-fishing are round the lake, hurting its economic importance to the country.

As population expands in the Bay, it’s expected to rely more heavily on the lake for freshwater supply, thus water quality directly affects human populations.

The latest algal bloom suggests authorities should rethink development plans to protect water quality and fish stocks for Metro Manila’s 16 million people.

It also supports agriculture, industry and hydro-power generation, and is a welcome getaway for rest and recreation for many Filipinos.

Time was when the lake’s importance was placed in peril from problems, including pollution from untreated sewage and industrial waste, over-fishing and the sedimentation and illegal reclamation eroding its capacity.

In recent years the Laguna Lake Development Authority gave the lake an overall ranking of “C-” for water quality and “F” for fisheries (on a scale of A-F, with F being the worst). Environmental threats have also sparked repeated attempts to clean up the lake and ease the pressure on its overstretched ecosystem so it continues to deliver its benefits to a growing human population.

And now the algal bloom.

This erosion weakens the democratic fabric, making it easier for those in power to act with impunity.

Ultimately, one should not rely on a solitary group or political party to rescue the state of Philippine politics.

True transformation must originate from the Filipino individuals residing within the Philippines themselves. Recognizing that politics involves a clash of diverse interests, it is crucial for the Filipino people to assert their own stake, as governments exist fundamentally to serve their citizens.

The confluence of these factors results in more or less predictable outcomes in the elections, whether in the national or local political arena.

This is why we now see the dominant political personalities and dynasties jockeying as early as now to gain the best vantage point for the 2028 presidential contest.

What is happening to the country is a consequence of our transactional politics. Unfortunately, we see this type of politics permeating all throughout our system. To some extent, as Machiavelli and even Marx have written, this is the nature of politics since you have to build coalitions.

When political power becomes highly concentrated, it often leads to impunity, creating a range of negative consequences such as a lack of checks and balances, and suppression of dissent and opposition. Impunity thrives in an environment where institutions are weak or compromised because weakened institutions are less likely to investigate and prosecute abuses of power, allowing those responsible to act with impunity.

Corruption and nepotism thrive in this environment, and the proliferation of human rights abuses.

As a whole, the concentration of power erodes democratic principles and values. In a healthy democracy, power is dispersed, and there are mechanisms in place to ensure accountability and prevent abuses. However, when power becomes concentrated, democratic norms and processes can be undermined.

Re-enacting Queen Helena’s search for the Cross

crucified on, and brought the Cross back to Rome. There are three virtues associated with Queen Helena and Santacruzan: hope, charity, and faith.

IT’S the month of May, with Santacruzan— loosely translated as Festival of the Holy Cross— clear on the country’s festival screens, described by some as a sort of religio-historical beauty pageant. It is held in many Christian communities, from Batanes down to the Christian areas of Mindanao, to celebrate the discovery of the Holy Cross which, as believed, was made by Helena and her son Constantine who became the first Christian Roman Emperor.

What sometimes confuses many is there is also the Flores de Mayo, which means “Flowers of May” and highlights a procession honoring Virgin Mary.

In many communities, this Flores de Mayo coincides with the Santacruzan, re-enacting the search by Elena – Flavia Julia Helena Augusta, also known as Saint Helena and Helena of Constantinople who was born in the lower classes – for the Holy Cross upon which Jesus Christ was believed crucified – with the town or city’s loveliest ladies gracing the occasion.

Introduced by the Spaniards in the Philippines since the 19th century, Santacruzan has become a popular Filipino Catholic tradition that originated as a way to commemorate and re-tell the story of how Queen Helena, or “Reina Elena,” mother of Constantine the Great, uncovered the Holy Cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified.

Religion says Helena led a back-breaking pilgrimage to find the Cross that Jesus was

Among characters in Santacruzan are Reina Banderada (Queen with a banner), a young lady dressed in a long red gown carrying a yellow triangular flag who represents the arrival of Christianity.

Other characters: Reina Abogada, wearing a graduation gown; Reina Sentenciada, symbolizing innocent convicts; Reina Justicia, symbol for justice; Reina Judith carrying the severed head of a man.

Others are Reina Sheba, Reina Esther, and Reina Veronica, the sweet one who wiped the face of Jesus.

Often, the Santacruzan is interchanged with Flores de Mayo. But in reality, they are different.

Flores de Mayo refers to the month-long festival; Santacruzan, religious and traditional, is the procession of “Queens” signifying Saint Helena’s legendary journey towards finding Jesus Christ’s Cross.

In the procession in the different communities on the last day of the month, Reina Elena (Queen Helena) used to be always the last member of the procession, representing Helena herself, whose Invention of the True Cross is symbolized by a cross or crucifix she carries in her arms.

This considerably prestigious role is usually awarded to the most beautiful girl or important matron in the pageant. In some communities, the identity of the woman playing Reina Elena is a closely-guarded

secret until the Santacruzan itself. Other places are more accommodating, allowing three Las Reinas Elenas in their processions.

At the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in the first class town of Cainta, Rizal, the Santacruzan, organized by a committee headed by overall coordinator Milagros Bas-Espinas, is also commemorated: with one Reina Elena, Joy Cruz of the parish’s Mother Butler Guild who will be carrying a crucifix, escorted by her son Jad Michael, representing Emperor Constantine. Reina Emperatriz, signifying her role as an Empress or Queen Mother, is Maria Rosa Cabie of the Legion of Mary, Handmaids of the Lord, and the Elderly Ministry, who will be escorted by her three grandsons: Mikhail Bernard VIII, Mirko Sean Alexander, and Milek Andrey. The Reina Emperatriz will carry the globus

cruciger, known as “the orb and cross”—an orb surmounted by a cross, a Christian symbol of authority since the Middle Ages.

The globus cruciger was used by powerful rulers and celestial beings alike; it adorned portrayals of both emperors and kings, as well as archangels and represents the sovereign’s power.

It symbolizes the Christian world with its cross mounted on a globe, and the bands of jewels dividing it up into three sections represent the three continents known in medieval times.

Some historians have raised the theory that somewhere down the festival road, the traditions of Flores de Mayo and the Santacruzan were fused into what we know and celebrate today: the Sagalahan or Sagala.

As the years rolled on, behind Saint Helena in the procession now is is the Reyna Emperatriz or Queen Empress – another representation of Saint Helena, alluding to the imperial Roman title of Agusta (Empress or Queen Mother) which her son Constantine bestowed upon her.

In the truest essence of this religious representation, the Reyna Emperatriz and Reyna Helena are but one and the same.

Some historians suggest that due perhaps to the voluminous turn out of potential role players and the many beauties available, early Santacruzan organizers deemed it proper to have a dual exposure of the main queen to accommodate every one.

Some say:

“Over the years and due to the love of the Filipinos for innovation and their penchant for creativity, the current adaptation of this religious practice has considered a recently

I have seen this in 45 years of engagement in Philippine politics.

Even the best and the brightest, even those in progressive and yes revolutionary movements, practice transactional politics, and as I have myself experienced strong bond of friendships are disregarded aside in favor of political gains that are ephemeral.

Betrayal is not a unique to traditional politics; even the best and the brightest and the most committed to the masses and the people do it for political exigencies. Recently, I experienced this myself and was hurt deeply by it.

But I learned lessons from my sad experience.

The challenge to both traditional and progressive political groups is to return to an ethics-based politics, what I have described to my students in the Ateneo School of Government as always doing the right thing the right way to achieve the right outcome.

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crowned beauty queen titlist or a popular actress or celebrity as Reyna Helena and an equally known male model or actor for her escort.

“The unrestrained display of these biblical characters and symbolic figures participating in the procession made the significant attributes to the Blessed Virgin even more.”

The outgoing parish priest of Cainta’s Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, 60-year-old Rev. Fr. Jaime Padilla, told Grinding Grains in an interview:

“The significance of the Santacruzan lies in its deep immersion to Catholic religious culture and serves as a visual representation of the Biblical story and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. He added: “We can derive messages from the Santacruzan like devotion to Mary which reminds the faithful of Mary’s role as the mother of Jesus and her intercessory power.

“Faithfulness and obedience, since the Santacruzan portrays Biblical characters who exemplify faithfulness and obedience to God. “Importance of humility. Mary, in particular, is often depicted as the humble handmaid of the Lord, serving as a model for the faithful to cultivate humility in their own lives.

“Beauty and goodness. Since the Santacruzan showcases elegance, beauty and grace through floral decorations and religious symbols, and encourages the faithful to appreciate and express their faith in a way that reflects the beauty and goodness of God.”

The procession is normally accompanied by the steady beat of a local brass band, playing and singing the Dios Te Salve (Hail Mary). Devotees hold lighted candles and sing the prayer as they walk.

It was customary for males and females and even the children to wear their Sunday’s best dresses which were more often white.

The challenge to both traditional and progressive political groups is to return to an ethics-based politics... always doing the right thing the right way to achieve the right outcome

both traditional and

The success of any tourism plan or program does not depend entirely on slogans or highsounding plans

The latest algal bloom suggests authorities should rethink development plans to protect water quality and fish stocks for Metro Manila’s 16 million people

In the truest essence of this religious representation, the Reyna Emperatriz and Reyna Helena are but one and the same

Papua New Guinea, US ink security pact with eye on China movements

PORT MORESBY—Papua New Guinea signed a defense pact with the United States on Monday, giving US forces access to its airfields and ports as Washington vies with China’s expanding footprint in the Pacific region.

Washington has growing concerns about China’s rise in the Pacific, where it is trying to woo nations with an array of diplomatic and financial incentives in return for strategic support.

Defence Minister Win Bakri Daki inked the deal with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken before the start of a US meeting with the leaders of 14 South Pacific island states in the capital Port Moresby.

“A defense cooperation agreement is done,” Prime Minister James Marape said at the signing ceremony, adding that the

Pacific island was “elevating” its relationship with the United States. Blinken said each of the two nations would be able to board the other’s vessels, share technical expertise and “better patrol” the seas together.

“We are working together to shape the future. We are very much looking forward to taking our partnership to the next level,” he said. In a sign of the intensifying rivalry over the South Pacific, Blinken was not alone in representing major powers aiming to counter Beijing’s growing economic, political and military presence.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi flew into town just hours before him on the eve of his own summit, asserting his nation’s role as a regional power in the face of China’s rise. AFP

GUTTED. This undated handout aerial footage released on May 21 by the press service of the 93rd Kholodnyi Yar Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces shows an apartment block on fire in the city of Bakhmut, Donetsk region, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. AFP

Bakhmut ‘not occupied’ by Russia, Zelensky compares it to Hiroshima

KYIV—Ukrainian President

Volodymyr Zelensky said Sunday that Bakhmut was “not occupied” by Moscow, while the head of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group insisted his fighters had taken control of the eastern city “to the last centimeter.”

Kyiv’s military said it was hanging on to a small part of the city and said its troops were advancing on its flanks.

Bakhmut, a salt-mining town that once had a population of 70,000 people, has been the scene of some of the bloodiest fighting in Moscow’s 15-month Ukraine offensive.

A day earlier, Wagner and Moscow’s regular army claimed to have fully captured Bakhmut, with Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulating them on the alleged conquest.

But speaking at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Zelensky denied Russia’s claims.

“Bakhmut is not occupied by Russia today,” he said during a press conference.

“I cannot share with you the tactical views of our military.

The most difficult thing would be if there was some tactical mistake in Bakhmut and our people were surrounded.”

Sitting next to US President Joe Biden, Zelensky suggested it would be a pyrrhic victory for Moscow.

“You have to understand there is nothing” there in Bakhmut, he said on the sidelines of the summit in Japan.

Zelensky compared the “absolute total destruction” in Bakhmut to the devastation in Hiroshima when the United States dropped an atomic bomb on the Japanese city in 1945.

“There is absolutely nothing alive (there).”

The Ukrainian army on Sunday said it retained an “insignificant” part of the city and that soldiers were advancing in from the city’s outer limits.

“We continue to advance on the flanks in the suburbs of Bakhmut,” said Oleksandr Syrsky, commander of Ukraine’s ground forces.

Wagner claims no Ukrainian soldiers left

But Yevgeny Prigozhin, the chief of Wagner whose fighters have spearheaded Russia’s advance on Bakhmut, insisted there were no Ukrainian troops there.

“There is not a single Ukrainian soldier in Bakhmut as we have stopped taking prisoners,” he said in a post on Telegram. AFP

EU leaders to visit S. Korea for talks on several issues

SEOUL—European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are set to visit Seoul on Monday for a summit with South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol.

The European leaders, who have just attended the G7 summit in Hiroshima, are making their first visit to the East Asian country for talks on issues including trade agreements, the war in Ukraine, and North Korea’s banned weapons programmes.

Security heavy as India hosts G20 tourism meet in disputed Kashmir

SRINAGAR, India—A G20 tourism meeting was set to begin on Monday amid high security in Indian-administered Kashmir, with China and Pakistan condemning holding the event in the disputed territory.

I am not opposed to organized government or affiliated with any association or group of persons who uphold and teach doctrines opposing all organized governments. I am not defending or teaching the necessity or propriety of violence, personal assault or assassination for the success and predominance of one's ideas. am not a polygamist nor a believer in the practice of polygamy. I have not been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude. I am not suffering from mental alienation or from any incurable contagious disease. The country of which I am a citizen or subject is not at war with the Philippines and grants to Filipinos the right to be naturalized citizens or subjects thereof.

13. It is my true and honest intention to become a citizen of the Philippines and to renounce absolutely and forever all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state or sovereignty, and, particularly, to INDIA of which at this time am a citizen or

Muslim-majority Kashmir has been disputed between New Delhi and Islamabad, both of which claim it in full, since their independence 75 years ago.

The Indian-controlled portion has been roiled for decades by an insurgency seeking independence or a merger with Pakistan, with tens of thousands of civilians, soldiers, and Kashmiri rebels killed in the conflict.

Police said last week that security had been beefed up “to avoid any chance of terrorist attack dur-

ing the G20” meeting, the first diplomatic event in the territory since New Delhi revoked its limited autonomy and took direct control in 2019. The three-day gathering will take place at a sprawling, wellguarded venue on the shores of Dal Lake in Srinagar.

Roads leading to the location have been freshly black-topped, and electricity poles lit up in the colours of India’s national flag to show what officials say is “normalcy and peace returning” to the region.

India has been promoting tourism in Kashmir and more than a million of its citizens visited last year. No Chinese delegates will be attending the event. AFP

“The EU and South Korea are expected to express their strong joint support for upholding the rules-based international order,” the European Council said in a statement.

South Korea, the world’s ninthlargest arms exporter, has sent humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and sold tanks and howitzers to Poland -a key ally for Kyiv as it battles Russia’s invasion.

However, it has a long-standing policy of not providing weapons to active conflict zones.

Yoon held talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the G7 Sunday, following a meeting with Zelensky’s wife, Olena Zelenska, in Seoul last week.

During his meeting with Zelensky in Hiroshima, Yoon promised additional non-lethal aid to Ukraine, including demining equipment and ambulances, at the request of the Ukrainian president, according to South Korea’s presidential office. AFP

Greece eyes new vote as PM to seek absolute majority

ATHENS—A day after national elections failed to produce a single-party government, Greece on Monday was bracing for a new ballot which votewinner Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ party is poised to seek in order to govern alone.

The conservative New Democracy party of Mitsotakis scored a thumping win in Sunday’s vote, with a clear 20-point lead over its nearest rival—Syriza led by leftist Alexis Tsipras.

Voters handed the conservatives their best result since 2007, crediting the party with bringing economic stability back to a nation once known as an EU laggard.

But the win fell short of an outright majority, leaving Mitsotakis with the option of either seeking a coalition or calling a new vote.

Left-wing daily Efsyn on Monday was headlined “Shock and awe”, a feeling shared by both New Democracy and Syriza voters, while pro-

government Proto Thema noted that the double-digit divide was the widest seen in the country since 1974.

Mitsotakis himself said the “great victory surpassed our own expectations”.

With the count almost complete, New Democracy won 146 seats in the 300-deputy parliament—five short of a majority.

The 55-year-old Harvard graduate on Sunday made clear his preferred option for a new ballot. AFP

ON THE GRIND. Organ grinders from Chile take part in the first edition of the Festival of Organ Grinders that celebrates the tradition of this job at the Monument to the Revolution in Mexico City on May 21. AFP

Biden, McCarthy set to resume US debt talks with 10 days until deadline

WASHINGTON, USA—Anxiet-

ies were mounting in Washington ahead of President Joe Biden’s Monday meeting with Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy over negotiations to raise the US debt ceiling, less than two weeks before a key deadline to avoid a disastrous default.

After a weekend of near deadlock, Biden arrived back in Washington late Sunday, cutting short a trip to Asia to resume talks ahead of the US Treasury’s June 1 deadline for Congress to authorize more borrowing. Ahead of their Monday afternoon meeting, Biden and McCarthy spoke as the president flew back to the United States on Air Force One.

“It went well,” Biden told reporters of the phone call as he arrived at the White House Sunday night.

“We’ll talk tomorrow.” And earlier in the day, McCarthy had said the conversation was “productive” —in contrast to the sharp words exchanged in a previous round of negotiations.

Still, the two sides seemed far from a final compromise, as Biden said Sunday that Republicans’ latest demands for spending cuts as a condition for raising the US government borrowing authority were “frankly unacceptable.”

“It’s time for the other side to move from their extreme positions,” he said at a press conference before leaving the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan.

And in a tweet, Biden maintained that he was categorically opposed to slashing social and healthcare assistance.

“I will not agree to a deal with House Republicans that protect billions in subsidies for Big Oil while putting the healthcare of 21 million Americans at risk,” Biden said.

And for his part, McCarthy said his position remained unchanged. “Washington cannot continue to spend money we do not have at the expense of children and grandchildren,” he said on Twitter after talking to Biden. AFP

Stock market, peso decline ahead of crucial US debt talks

STOCKS fell Monday ahead of US debt talks between President Joe Biden and congressional leaders, with both sides still apart but also confident a deal could be reached to avert a catastrophic default.

The PSE index, the 30-company gauge of the Philippine Stock Exchange, shed 43 points, or 0.66 percent, to close at 6,620.83, as five of the six subsectors retreated.

The broader all-shares index went down by 14 points, or 0.40 percent, to settle at 3,534.03 on a value turnover of P7 billion. Losers outnumbered gainers, 116 to 67, while 47 shares were unchanged.

Only two of the 10 most active stocks

ended in the green. AgriNurture Inc. went up 1.23 percent to P7.38, while ACEN Corp. rose 0.98 percent to P6.21. Meanwhile, the peso depreciated 0.27 percent to finish at 55.82 against the US dollar Monday from 55.67 Friday.

Asian markets mostly rose Monday. Sentiment was being supported by hopes the Federal Reserve will stand pat on interest rates at its next gathering, and Biden saying China-US relations should see a thaw “very shortly”.

After returning from the G7 summit in Japan, Biden will meet Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy at the White House, with a warning that the government could run out of cash as soon as June 1.

But while there is a broad expectation that an agreement will be found, Biden insisted he would not give in to demands for spending cuts, saying they were “frankly unacceptable”.

“It’s time for the other side to move

from their extreme positions,” he said.

For his part, McCarthy said his position remained unchanged, tweeting: “Washington cannot continue to spend money we do not have at the expense of children and grandchildren.”

However, after speaking to Biden, he told reporters: “I believe it was a productive phone call.”

Still, the stalled talks caused last week’s rally in US stocks to stumble Friday.

Asia fared a little better Monday, though markets fluctuated as investors awaited solid signs of a compromise out of Washington.

Hong Kong and Shanghai rallied, with Tokyo hitting a new 33-year high.

Seoul, Singapore, Mumbai, Taipei, Jakarta and Bangkok were also up, though there were losses in Sydney and Wellington. London rose in the morning but Paris and Frankfurt sank. With AFP

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China agency says US chipmaker Micron failed national security review

BEIJING, China—US semiconductor giant Micron has failed a national security review, China’s cybersecurity watchdog said Sunday, telling operators of “critical information infrastructure” to stop buying its products. It marked the latest escalation in the bitter chip war between the United States and China, with Washington looking to cut off Beijing’s access to cutting-edge semiconductors.

Chinese authorities launched a review in March of products sold in the country by Micron, one of the world’s major chip manufacturers. Micron’s products “have relatively serious potential network security issues,

which pose a major security risk to China’s critical information infrastructure supply chain and affect China’s national security”, the cybersecurity administration said in a statement.

“Operators of critical information infrastructure in China should stop purchasing Micron products.” China’s broad definition of critical information infrastructure includes sectors ranging from transport to healthcare.

“We have received the CAC’s notice of conclusion of its review of Micron products sold in China,” Micron said in a statement.

“We are evaluating the conclusion and assessing our next steps.”

When asked if the company will ap-

peal the decision, a spokeswoman for Micron said: “We look forward to continuing to engage in discussions with Chinese authorities.”

About 10 percent of Micron’s $30.8 billion annual revenue last year came from China, according to company data. But a large portion of Micron products sold in the country were bought by foreign manufacturers, analysts had said earlier, and it was not clear if the cybersecurity watchdog’s decision affects sales to foreign buyers. China in 2021 announced rules to protect critical information infrastructure with stricter data security requirements. It has recently also strengthened the

Going silent on sustainability

ability achievements and milestones. These companies intended to ‘go green, then go dark.’ There are several potential reasons why companies are choosing this approach.

Fear of drawing public scrutiny and getting a bad reputation.

A NEW eco-trend is upon us, and it’s not something that you would expect.

Greenwashing—the act of companies making unsubstantiated claims and creating different initiatives to deceive consumers into believing that a company’s products have a positive environmental impact for marketing purposes—is quickly becoming a thing of the past.

Greenwashing is out. Greenhushing is in. But what exactly is Greenhushing?

The term greenhushing describes the act of various companies deliberately not communicating their environmental and sustainable initiatives for fear of being labeled as greenwashers. This trend is quite peculiar as companies who have been used to advocating their initiatives on how to make positive changes for society are now choosing to keep quiet about their various initiatives. We got used to companies being vocal about their pursuit of green initiatives in recent years, so why exactly is greenhushing becoming a trend across different industries?

According to a 2022 report by climate consultancy South Pole, results showed that of the 1,200 private companies they surveyed that are considered global climate leaders, about 25 percent of respondents chose to keep quiet and not publicize their sustain-

No brand wants to be ‘canceled.’

Some companies choose not to highlight and publicize their sustainable efforts for fear of being publicly shamed for being hypocrites or for shortcomings in their sustainability efforts.

Companies are becoming increasingly careful about sustainability and environmental conversation claims in their marketing initiatives. Retail giant H&M had to discontinue its ‘Conscious’ and ‘Conscious Choice’ labels which characterize a number of its products, after results of investigations by the Netherlands’ Authority for Consumers and Markets.

ACM has concluded the apparel brand is misleading sustainability claims as it fails to explain and prove its products’ sustainable features sufficiently. In the Philippines, concerned groups under the Break Free From Plastic movement, represented by Greenpeace Philippines, Eco Waste Coalition, Mother Earth Foundation, Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives and Health Care Without Harm, called out Nestle for ‘greenwashing practice’ as the brand still remains as one of the top polluters in their recent brand audit. The group demanded the company truly adapt to sustainable packaging solutions and stop producing single-use plastics.

Brand competitiveness Companies may fear their sustainability efforts will not be as good as their competitors, potentially harming their reputation or business prospects. The fear of not keeping up with the other efforts of competitors is a legitimate concern in different industries as this can affect brand perception, particularly for brands who want to appeal to an eco-conscious market.

Quantifying impact

For several reasons, some companies may find it hard to quantify the results of their sustainability efforts. One reason can be a lack of resources. Measuring the impact of sustainability initiatives will require time, monetary investment, expertise, and training, among others.

These are just some resources that some companies might need more access to. As both the public and external organizations require proof of sustainability claims, brands want to ensure their efforts can be reported properly to avoid negative publicity. Unlike business key performance indicators, such as revenue or profit, the impact of sustainability efforts can potentially be more difficult to quantify. For example, how does one measure the social or environmental impact of a company’s activities?

Alienating consumers

Although more and more companies recognize the importance of integrating sustainability efforts into their operations, there still needs to be a valid concern about potentially alienating consumers with differing motivations when considering products or services. Some price-sensitive consumers might

enforcement of its data security and anti-espionage laws.

‘Bullying tactics’

The chip war between Beijing and Washington escalated last year when the United States imposed restrictions on China’s access to high-end chips, chipmaking equipment and software used to design semiconductors. Washington also blacklisted Chinese firms, including Micron rival Yangtze Memory Technologies Co Ltd. Washington cited national security concerns, and said it wanted to prevent tech that could help develop advanced military equipment from being acquired by China’s armed forces and intelligence services. AFP

prioritize affordability over sustainability and be unwilling to pay extra for eco-friendly products. In turn, this might lead to a perception that such products are expensive or impractical, which makes it more challenging for companies to market their sustainability efforts effectively.

As companies are now more accountable for upholding their commitments to sustainability and responsible business practices, the market can benefit from effective social and environmental efforts.

In this context, the public and external organizations serve as watchdogs that safeguard the market from ‘greenwashing’ practices. While tackling greenwashing is one thing, some believe that greenhushing could slow down genuine environmental and social progress.

Silence could be problematic in some circumstances. If fewer companies opt to keep their sustainability practices private, there might be less clamor for others to do so. Openly discussing sustainability practices can build momentum and encourage other companies to follow suit.

Angelica Eder is a Master of Marketing Communications student at De La Salle University. She has professional experience in the advertising, telecommunications, and esports industries. She can be reached at angelica_eder@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.

WASHINGTON, USA—The explosion of generative AI has taken the world by storm, but one question all too rarely comes up: Who can afford it?

OpenAI bled around $540 million last year as it developed ChatGPT and says it needs $100 billion to meet its ambitions, according to industry media The Information.

“We’re going to be the most capitalintensive startup in Silicon Valley history,” OpenAI’s founder Sam Altman told a panel recently.

And when Microsoft, which poured billions of dollars in investment into OpenAI, is asked about how much its AI adventure will cost, the company answers with assurances that it is keeping an eye on its bottom line.

Building something even near the scale of what OpenAI, Microsoft, or Google have on offer would require an eye-watering investment in stateof-the-art chips and recruiting prizewinning researchers.

“People don’t realize that to do a significant amount of AI things like ChatGPT takes huge amounts of processing power. And training those models can cost tens of millions of dollars,” said Jack Gold, an independent analyst.

“How many companies can actually afford to go out and buy 10,000 Nvidia H100 systems that go for tens of thousands of dollars a piece?” asked Gold.

The answer is pretty much no one and in tech, if you can’t build the infrastructure, you rent it and that is what companies already do massively by outsourcing their computing needs to Microsoft, Google, and Amazon’s AWS.

And with the advent of generative AI, this dependency on cloud computing and tech giants deepens, leaving the same players in the driver’s seat, experts warned.

The unpredictable costs of cloud computing, “is a heavily underestimated problem for many companies,” said Stefan Sigg, Chief Product Officer at Sofware AG, which develops software for businesses. AFP

Affordability casts dark cloud over ChatGPT’s AI revolution

ANGELICA EDER

MARINE PARK. A man visits SeaWorld, the region’s first marine life theme park, on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi on May 21, 2023. AFP

Fitch revises PH credit outlook to ‘stable’ on resilient economy

FITCH Ratings said Monday it affirmed the Philippines credit rating at investment-grade of ‘BBB’ but revised the outlook on the country’s long-term foreign-currency issuer default rating from “negative” to “stable” on resilient economic growth.

“The revision of the outlook to stable reflects Fitch’s improved confidence that the Philippines is returning to strong medium-term growth after the Covid-19 pandemic, supporting sustained reductions in government debt/ GDP, after substantial increases in recent years,” Fitch said in a statement.

The international debt watcher said the revision also reflected its assessment that the Philippines’ economic policy framework remains sound and in line

with ‘BBB’ peers, despite its low scores on World Bank Governance indicators.

It said the revision comes despite some relative deterioration over the last years in credit metrics that previously had been strengths, including in government debt/ GDP and net external debt/GDP.

“We forecast real GDP growth of above 6 percent over the medium term, considerably stronger than the ‘BBB’ median of 3 percent, after a record outturn of 7.6 percent in 2022, reflecting normaliza-

tion of activity after the pandemic and the government’s investment program.

It noted that growth moderated to 6.6 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2023, with the post-pandemic recovery boost fading. Ongoing reforms to the business environment and investment regulations create upside potential for growth, it said.

Fitch said it expects the general government deficit to narrow to 2.8 percent of GDP in 2023 and 2024, from an estimated 3.3 percent of GDP in 2022 and 4.6 percent of GDP in 2021.

This is consistent with a narrowing of the budgetary central government deficit to 5.7 percent of GDP by 2024 from 7.3 percent of GDP in 2022 and 8.6 percent of GDP in 2021.

Fitch said the gradual pace of consolida-

tion reflects the authorities’ focus on fostering economic growth and development.

It said the narrower general government deficits compared with central government deficits reflect the surpluses of local government units and social security funds.

The government is projecting a CG deficit of 5.1 percent of GDP by 2024, with most of the consolidation coming from spending efficiency gains and capital spending reductions. Fitch said

ther would be fully realized in its opinion.

“We consider the fiscal revenue targets unambitious and expect them to be exceeded, as in recent years. However, spending will also likely exceed budgeted amounts. Overall budget balance outturns have tended to be close to targets in recent history,” it said.

Pascual wants to pursue PH-EU free trade talks

TRADE Secretary Alfredo Pascual said Monday the Philippines is keen on pursuing the resumption of negotiations on the PhilippinesEU Free Trade Agreement.

Pascual said in a meeting with members of the European Union-ASEAN Business Council at Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati City that a successful negotiation of the FTA would help the Philippines secure additional duty-free market access beyond those covered by the EU GSP+ scheme and provide a conducive framework for attracting greater investments from the EU.

“I’d like to reemphasize our growth strategy centered around enhancing trade and investment. Our objective is to foster job creation and poverty reduction by uplifting the global position of our export sectors and driving investments into strategic areas,” Pascual said.

He said an FTA with the EU would put the Philippines at par with other ASEAN countries who were aggressively pursuing FTAs with the EU. The Philippines is also pursuing the re-authorization of the EU GSP+ that is set to expire by end-2023. Othel V. Campos

BMI predicts another BSP rate hike in June

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is expected to increase the key interest rate at least once more by 25 basis points to 6.5 percent this year on continuing threat of elevated inflation, BMI, a unit of Fitch Solutions, said in a report Monday.

“We expect that the BSP will hike once more at the next meeting, which is scheduled on June 22, as disinflation momentum is likely to slow in the near term. The latest consumer price data showed inflation dropping to 6.6 percent yearon-year in April from 7.6 percent in March and 8.6 percent in February,” BMI said.

The April inflation marked the lowest reading since August 2022, with food prices increasing the least in seven months. BMI said while inflation might remain on a broad downward trend through end-2023, “the pace of disinflation will likely slow.”

It said the BSP’s move of keeping the key policy rate steady on May 18 at 6.25 percent marked a pause rather than an end to the monetary tightening cycle, as inflation remained above the BSP’s targeted ceiling of 4.0 percent and expected to subside only by the fourth quarter of this year.

“We also flag growing upside risks to inflation as a result of food supply disruptions caused by adverse weather conditions. This could see the central bank hike once more to anchor inflation expectations,” BMI said. Julito G. Rada

CENTRAL

center) underscores the country’s commitment to creating an enabling regulatory environment to promote responsible innovation, resilient financial systems and financial inclusion during a meeting with the Bank of Botswana at the BSP head office in Manila. With Medalla are (seated, from left) are BoB Deputy Governor Tshokologo Alex Kganetsano and advisor Sheila Malebogo Sealetsa; (standing, from left) Novus Transact Philippines Corporation country head Ariel Gumabao, BoB head of property management procurement and projects Moeti Modimana and banking manager Vincent Golebetswe, RCBC executive vice president Lito Villanueva, BoB director Julius Ghanie, Novus Technologies president and chief executive Ricardos Khoury, BoB coordinator Ruth Baitshepi and Novus Technologies vice president of strategic initiatives Sidath Wijeratne.

Globe says proceeds from sale of telecom towers reach nearly P100b

By Darwin G. Amojelar

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said Monday the total proceeds from the sale and leaseback of its telecom towers reached nearly P100 billion.

The telecom unit of the Ayala Group said it has actively sold non-strategic infrastructure since last year, aiming to offload 7,000 towers in what is potentially the largest sale and leaseback transaction in the Philippines.

The recent contract with Unity Digital Infrastructure pushed the number to over

7,500, representing the upper threshold of its divestment plan. The agreement entails the sale and leaseback of 447 towers, generating gross proceeds of P5.4 billion to be paid in tranches.

“At the moment I think we have upped our tower sale. We will see if there are any more opportunistic transactions for the balance year but the fact that we’re at 7,509 is already over our target,” Globe chief finance officer Rizza Maniego-Eala said.

The company said including the Unity deal, the gross proceeds for all tower

transactions already reached P96.322 billion. Globe successfully transferred 44 percent or 3,120 assets of the 7,059 acquired by tower companies, yielding about P40.5 billion.

Globe said it would use the tower sale proceeds for capital expenditure investments, facilitating the improvement of the company’s financial standing. Globe earlier raised P11 billion from the closure of four tower sales with PhilTower Consortium Inc. (PhilTower). As part of this milestone, an additional 132 towers in Visayas and Mindanao were

transferred to PhilTower, amounting to about P2 billion. Globe also turned over 710 of 1,350 towers, accompanied by PhilTower’s commitment to construct 750 more across the Visayas and Mindanao regions.

Aside from PhilTower, MIESCOR Infrastructure Development Corp. received 39 percent of the 2,180 towers and related passive telecom infrastructure under the first Globe portfolio. Frontier Tower Associates Philippines also received 44 percent of the second portfolio, which consisted of 3,529 towers.

Century Pacific raises P2.8b on strong investor interest in equity placement

By Jennifer

CENTURY

The deal was done

book-built offering with Century Pacific Group Inc., the parent company of CNPF, as the sole selling shareholder.

CNPF said in a disclosure to the stock exchange the transaction was oversubscribed, anchored by high-quality long-

LAOAG FLIGHT.

Cebu Pacific Flight 5J 404 is welcomed with a water cannon salute upon landing at Laoag International Airport. Ilocos Norte officials and Cebu Pacific executives attended the inauguration of the airline’s Laoag-Manila route.

Study says Filipinos

By Othel V. Campos

FILIPINOS spend an average of P800 a month on sari-sari stores, with alcohol and tobacco getting the bulk of their budget. The consumer habit study found that Filipinos continue to allocate a portion of their monthly budget on vices like alcohol and tobacco, alongside other beverages and hygiene supplies.

only international and domestic institutional investors.

The transaction was priced at a tight discount of 5.2 percent to last close amid strong demand from investors.

“We are seeing opportunities at the holding company level and will be de-

ploying proceeds across various investments,” CPGI chairman Christopher T. Po said.

Post transaction, CPG will continue to own a majority stake in CNPF with 66-percent stake.

The public ownership of CNPF will increase to 34 percent from 31 percent, which will improve the trading liquidity and allow for greater investor participation in the stock, the company said.

“We do not expect any sale of CNPF shares by CPGI for the foreseeable future. As a majority shareholder, we continue to support the long-term prospects of CNPF,” Po said.

UBS AG Singapore Branch acted as sole placement agent for the transaction.

CNPF grew its first-quarter net income by 6 percent to P1.5 billion as sales rose 6 percent to P15.6 billion.

The company’s main business segments include canned tuna, canned meat, milk, coconut and plant-based products

The share price of CNPF ended lower by P0.95 to close at P25 Monday.

spend an average of P800 on sari-sari stores each month

Using data gathered from 200,000 sari-sari stores nationwide, data analytics start-up Packworks said cigarettes, alcohol, hygiene products, soda drinks and powdered drinks were the top 5 essential goods that make up the monthly budget of a regular Filipino household.

“It’s a war amongst cigarettes and liquor, beverages and hygiene products. While Filipino households continue to

prioritize essential goods, it’s apparent that many consumers have formed habits or indulgences that significantly influence their spending decisions,” said Packworks data product manager Samantha de Guzman. Packworks intelligence tool Sari IQ also revealed disparities when it comes to brand preferences. While the categories of goods purchased were largely uniform, the specific brands that con-

sumers gravitated towards showed significant regional variance.

The National Capital Region led the country in consumer spending with an average weekly basket size of P452.32 or P1,809.28 a month. Consumers from NCR showed a clear preference for brands such as Marlboro and Fortune for cigarettes, Cream Silk for hair care, Emperador Light for alcoholic beverages and Surf with Fabcon for detergent.

FedEx opens logistics center for

dangerous goods in Cebu

FEDEX Express said Monday it opened onestop shop logistics solutions for dangerous goods in Cebu.

FedEx Express said it provides greater convenience to customers shipping over 2,200 types of dangerous goods from class 1 to 9 such as paints, perfumes, bleaches and electronic devices with lithium batteries to overseas markets. Dangerous goods are items or substances that may pose health, safety or environmental hazards if not handled carefully.

“This suite of services gives businesses enhanced capabilities to expand their portfolio and meet the growing demands of their customers. We hope to open up more possibilities for local businesses to tap into global trade opportunities, as well as contribute towards Cebu’s continuous growth, as one of the country’s key economic and tourism hotspots,” said FedEx Express Philippines managing director Maribeth Espinosa. FedEx said through its expertise, dangerous goods are safely packed, marked, labelled and appropriately documented, meticulously handled and shipped by trained personnel to ensure they arrive safely at their destination. Othel V. Campos

Repower expects 2023 net income to rise 7.8% to P300m

By Alena Mae S. Flores

REPOWER Energy Development Corp. expects net income to reach P300 million in 2023, up 7.8 percent from P168 million last year.

Revenues climbed to P382 million in 2022 from P233 million in 2021, reflecting a strong momentum in terms of financial performance.

REDC said one of the factors leading to the company’s strong financial performance is the favorable regulatory regime under the feed-in-tariff program—a policy designed to provide a guaranteed fixed rate for renewable energy investors.

“If the government can support us with more financial capabilities to achieve financial closure for the projects, that would help a lot,” REDC president Eric Peter Roxas said in an interview with ANC’s Market Edge.

The company is pursuing an initial public offering of 200 million primary common shares, with an over-allotment option for another 30 million secondary shares. The shares will be sold at P5 apiece.

REDC intends to use the proceeds for its expansion plans such as partially funding the equity portion of Pulanai mini hydro power project and Piapi minihydro project in Bukidnon and Quezon provinces, respectively and acquiring other renewable energy projects.

REDC has six operating power plants in Laguna, Quezon and Camarines Sur.

Two more power plants will come online by June 2023, increasing the company’s operational capacity by over 60 percent.

The company set its sights on “growing another 1,000 megawatts in its portfolio, concentrated on hydropower projects, possibly upstream and downstream of existing power plants and seawater pump storage” in the next five years.

Austria

Pacific Food Inc., the Philippines’ largest canned food company owned by the Po family, on Monday announced a P2.8-billion equity placement of about 114 million common shares at a price of P24.60 apiece.

via an overnight

nei-

BANKS’ MEETING. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Felipe Medalla (seated,

Referee recalls night boxer Egano perished after bout

By Randy Caluag

AMILLION thoughts raced through veteran referee Nowel Haduca’s head as he raised an imaginary hand to declare victory during that gloomy Saturday night.

Haduca had to do it in front of a silent, stunned crowd as part of the process, but his mind was struggling with what was about to come because Kenneth Egano, the boxer who won the bout, had lost consciousness and was about to be brought to the hospital.

Egano appeared to be in much pain while he was waiting for the scorecards. He collapsed and was rushed away on a stretcher to the Imus Doctors Hospital. He reportedly suffered a brain haemorrhage.

“Hindi ko na namalayan na wala pala ako hawak sa kaliwang kamay ko. Itinaas ko na lang ng buong puso at tumaimtim na panalangin na sana maka-recover siya (Egano). Na sana turuan Niya (Diyos) ang mga doctor ng tama nilang gawin para lang maka-survive si Kenneth. Noong gabing iyon, halos bumalik na naman ang aking trauma sa mga aking nakaraan,” said Haduca, a veteran ring official of hundreds of local and international bouts.

On Haduca’s right was Egano’s oppo-

nent Jason Facularin and on his left was an imaginary Egano, whose name was announced as the winner via unanimous decision of their eight-round bout.

“Sobra akong nalungkot sa nangyari. Halos hindi ko maitaas ang aking kaliwang kamay para ideklara na si Kenneth ang nanalo, pero kinailangan kong gawin iyun para makita ng mga nanonood kung sino talaga ang nanalo. Sobrang dami ang pumasok sa isip ko na puwedeng mangyari sa kanya na pilit ko din kinu-kontra sa aking isipan,” he said.

It turned out to be Egano’s last ring exploit as the 22-year-old perished four days after slipping into a coma. He pegged his ring record at seven wins, three by knockout, against one loss.

A subsequent investigation by the Games and Amusements Board cleared the promoter of Blow by Blow of medical negligence. There was also no mismatch in the bout. Haduca also said there was no visible signs of the coming fatal occurrence.

Referee Nowel Haduca raises the hand in of an “imaginary” victorious boxer. That boxer should have been Kenneth Egano, who was brought to the hospital after the bout and later died, four days after slipping into a coma. Wendell Alinea

“From the start until the end of the bout, I’ve never seen sa kanila ng panghihina. Palitan sila ng malalakas suntok at napakalinis ang laro nila. Nakikinig at sumusunod sila sa aking mga command. Doon mo kasi masusukat kung okay pa sila, kapag nag-rerespond ng maayos,” Haduca said.

“After the last round, kinausap ko sila. Binati ko sila na napakaganda at malinis ang kanilang laban. Nag-thank you pa nga silang dalawa at sinabi ko pa na kung my best fight ngayung gabi, walang ng iba kungdi ito.”

It was indeed the best fight to remember--for the wrong reasons.

Lady Tams capture UAAP football title

IT took 120 minutes to crown the first UAAP women’s football champion since 2019.

After the dust settled, Far Eastern University outlasted defending champion De La Salle University, 2-1, at extra time to win the Season 85 championship and complete a ‘treble’ for the Tamaraws football program on Sunday at Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.

“Never talaga nag give up ang players namin,” said coach Let Dimzon. “Even when we played against La Salle during the first round kahit andami ng score pero humahabol pa rin kami and last game during the second round also.

“‘Yan ‘yung pinaka highlight ko sa team ko—hangga’t hindi natatapos, never sila nag gi-give up. Considering na halos lahat ng players ng La Salle is coming from the youth national team and ‘yung experience ng players ko is not that high pero the way they work inside the field, hindi matatawaran,” she added.

FEU’s Regine Rebosura gave the Lady Tamaraws the lead 46 minutes into the match, only for La Salle’s Shai del Campo to score a late equalizer in the 90+10th minute of regulation.

However, Dimzon’s squad dug deep. The Lady Tamaraws put pressure on the Lady Booters’ goalkeeper Alexandra Gumilao, who made multiple saves. Rebosura then tapped the ball home in the 118th minute to seal the championship.

“Galing siya from futsal and then nag-football,” said Dimzon. “‘Yan na talaga ‘yung malaking reveal from Regine but again siguro sa quality, kaya niya technically. Nakikita mo ‘yung work ethic, kung papano siya nag-a-adjust every training, every game. Kahit maraming mistakes, pero tina-try niya makisabay sa 11-aside.”

This was the Lady Tamaraws’ 11th championship in the UAAP women’s division.

Also winning the boys’ and men’s titles this season, the Lady Tamaraws secured the school’s third treble in history, with the first two coming in Seasons 76-77.

Rebosura was named Rookie of the Year and Best Midfielder for her outstanding performances throughout the season. La Salle’s Angelica Teves was named Best Striker with eight goals. University of the Philippines duo Frances Caroline Acelo and Jennifer Baroin were awarded Best Goalkeeper and Best Defender, respectively.

FEU’s Katrina Magbitang was named the Most Valuable Player for Season 85.

Ateneo de Manila University received the Fair Play Award.

Completing the tournament’s podium is UP, which lost to De La Salle University 1-0 in the playoff on May 13.

ASIA’S best pole vaulter Ernest John Obiena and the Philippine Women’s National Football Team may have treaded different paths in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia.

But their mission and end goal remain the sam— reach the Summit.

AFTER a three-week break following the country’s campaign in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games, the Philippine Sportswriters Association resumes its weekly Forum on Tuesday, with no less than Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham ‘Bambol’ Tolentino gracing as special guest of the special session at the conference hall of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

Tolentino, also mayor of Tagaytay City, is expected to assess the Philippine performance in the Cambodia Games where it finished a fighting fifth or one notch below the 2021 edition in Hanoi, but collected a total of 58 golds for the most the country ever had in SEA Games held overseas since 1987.

The POC president will also talk about the Filipino athletes’ coming bid in the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China this September, where some of the events serve as qualifiers to the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The session starts early at 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. as Tolentino will be attending to some pressing matters at noontime.

During the session, the PSA also holds the induction of its officers and board members led by newly-elected president Nelson Beltran, sports editor of the Philippine Star.

Tolentino, the current president of the Integrated Cycling Federation of the Philippines (Philcycling), will administer the induction ceremony.

Obiena’s record-smashing SEAG show

The world’s no. 3 pole vaulter made a splash in the rain at the Morodok Techno National Stadium, where he obliterated the competition and his own record of 5.46 meters with a leap of 5.65 in the competition delayed for over an hour by the heavy downpour. It was his third straight pole vault gold medal in a domination that began during the 2019 SEA Games in the Philippines.

“It feels good. I needed something to make it personal, man. I was done, I wanted to finish, but there was some, not so good development, (that) had to push me. That if stuff gets going, we get tough, right?” said Obiena, whose #thirstforgold was fueled by the judges’ decision of stopping play for everyone during the rain, soon after EJ made his jump in the wet conditions. When the rain stopped, they proceeded, with EJ’s rivals clearly getting better jumping circumstances. The 27-year-old Obiena, 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.

“Maybe I should have, I could have (gone higher), but it’s early in the season,” added Obiena, obviously preparing for the start of the indoor season.

is the 5th Irena Sze-

winska Memorial at the Zdzislaw Krzyszkowiak Stadium in Bydgoszcz, Poland in June, the Asian Athletics Championships in Pattaya, Thailand in July, the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China in September, plus a sprinkling of continental tournaments in Europe in his bid to qualify again for the Olympics next year in Paris.

“The Olympics, that’s the goal,” said Obiena. Filipinas” journey

to summit of FIFA World Cup

The Philippine Women’s National Football Team, also known as the “Filipinas” made history in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in India in 2021 by reaching the semifinals and qualifying for the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time ever.

It’s an achievement that no Philippine team, men or women, has done before, made the more impressive by the fact that the world’s no. 53-ranked Filipinas made the cut when other Asian countries with a better ranking, like two-time World Cup qualifier (no. 44) Thailand and one-time qualifier (no. 37) Chinese Taipei, couldn’t.

The Filipinas may have failed to finish

in the podium in the 2023 SEA Games, but the experience will only make them stronger.

Journey to summit continues for Obiena, Filipinas Returning PSA Forum to tackle SEAG, Asiad

Plus, they know they can play – and beat—the region’s best as the Filipinas had defeated the SEA Games’ eventual champion in Vietnam via a 2-1 score in the elimination round, in what coach Alen Stajcic called as “their best performance in the tournament.”

“We saved our best performance against our toughest opponent,” said Stajcic.

Prior to this, the Filipinas handed their fellow World Cup-bound Vietnam a 4-0 spanking in the AFF Women’s Championships in Manila last year.

Stajcic said the SEAG campaign hardly put a dent in their preparations for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

“This has no effect in our preparations. It’s just another group of matches in an experienced group,” said Stajcic, who can now focus on the team’s campaign in the FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand from July 20 to August 20.

Hidilyn Diaz shares dream of Obiena, Filipinas Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz shares the dream of Obiena and the Filipinas, even though she already reached the Summit during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, because that’s what champions do—go for the best version of themselves.

Diaz already began her qualifying journey after finishing fourth overall with a 221-kg lift in the Asian Weightlifting Championships in Jinju, South Korea recently.

Considering that it was her first time to compete in the heavier 59-kg class, Diaz’s campaign was a relative success, as weightlifters in all weight divisions are looking to finish inside the top eight to automatically qualify for the Paris Olympics.

Summit Natural Drinking Water

Every Step of the Way

In support of the Philippines’ quest for gold and glory in international competitions, Summit Natural Drinking Water has been behind the Filipino athlete since 2005.

Knowing that the brand has been with Diaz, Obiena and the women’s football team in their #thirstforgold, every step of the way, our athletes are assured that they are not alone in their journey to the #Summit of their dreams.

The FEU Lady Tamaraws celebrate in the rain their UAAP football championship.

Ernest John Obiena

CSCQC, PCCr set title clash

FAVORITES Philippine College of Criminology and College of St.

Catherine of Quezon City carved out contrasting victories at Central Colleges of the Philippines to arrange a showdown in the cage finals of the fledgling National Universities and Colleges Athletic Association.

PCCr Serpent Eagles, from a halftime six-point bulge over San Pedro College of Business Administration, methodically padded their lead in the second half—the widest at 74-53 with eight minutes and 27 seconds remaining behind the guns of Ledgimir Eusebio and Paul Villareal—en route to 85-69 triumph.

Johan Kurt Makalintal engineered an 8-0 rally over a minute and a half, carrying SPCBA to within 12 points, 78-66, 3:15 to go. That was the closest PCCr allowed SPCBA.

Koepka takes PGA for 5th major in landmark LIV win

ROCHESTER—Brooks Koepka outdueled Viktor Hovland and Scottie Scheffl er in a back-nine battle Sunday to win the PGA Championship for his fi fth major title, giving Saudi-backed LIV Golf a milestone major triumph.

The 33-year-old American captured his third PGA Championship and became the first player to win a major since joining LIV, firing a three-under par 67 to finish 72 holes at Oak Hill on nine-under 271.

“This is probably the sweetest one of them all because all the hard work that went into it,” Koepka said. “This one is definitely special.”

Norway’s 11th-ranked Hovland, chasing his first major title, and American Scheffler, last year’s Masters winner and the new world number one, shared second on 273.

“I put up a good fight. I played great today,” Scheffler said. “I gave the guys

on top of the leaderboard something to think about.

“But Brooks just played some fantastic golf this week. He played too good this weekend for me to catch up to him.”

There were a smattering of boos for Koepka as he walked onto the 18th green to make the concluding putts for the title, a sign of the bitter acrimony that has engulfed golf since the launch of the LIV circuit last year.

But Koepka calmly finished off an impressive romp, his first major win since 2021 right knee surgery sidelined him for most of the past two seasons.

“I hear it all,” Koepka said. “I just

Eusebio and Villareal combined for 45 points (the former sank 23 and the latter 22) for Serpent Eagles with Makalintal contributing 15 to SPCBA’s losing effort. In the other semifinal match of NUCAA’s maiden offering, CSCQC outlasted Electron College, 7168, after trailing 30-31 at the half.

Top scoring in the see-saw battle all the way were CSCQC’s John Paul Baldelovar with 20 points, and Ian Talucad, 10: and Electron’s Raymond Basilio, 15, and Aaron Reina, 13.

PCCr is asserting its supremacy as the finals in the women’s and junior basketball tournaments also feature its teams. Its women collide with Electron while its juniors clash with CSCQC also.

Next on tap in the NUCAA’s inaugural season is volleyball.

don’t

care. That’s sports. You’ve got to be mentally tough.”

Thinking of the rehabilitation and recovery made Koepka emotional as he walked off the 18th green.

“I look back at where we were two years ago,” Koepka said. “I’m so happy right now. I’m at a loss for words. But this is the coolest thing.”

Koepka’s victory puts him among the winningest 20 men in major history.

“It’s incredible,” said Koepka. “I’m not sure I even dreamed when I was a kid I would win this many.”

Australia’s Cam Davis and American Kurt Kitayama shared fourth on 277 with another LIV player, American Bryson DeChambeau.

Four-time major winner Rory McIlroy shared seventh on 278 with Austrian Sepp Straka.

Koepka was among the stars who jumped from the PGA Tour to breakaway LIV Golf, which offered record

$25 million purses for 54-hole events, despite concern over Saudi Arabia’s human rights record.

The PGA banned LIV talent from its events, with a legal fight between them due in court next May. In the meantime, the majors have provided the only outlet for competition between players from the rival tours.

In all, there were six major winners from LIV in the field of 156 with a combined 15 major crowns, none of them won since joining the upstart circuit, including Australian Cam Smith’s British Open title last July.

“We haven’t forgot how to play golf,” Smith said. “We’re all great golfers out there.”

Koepka led entering the final round at last month’s Masters but, in his words, “choked” away the green jacket, finishing second to Spain’s Jon Rahm but taking lessons in mental attitude. AFP

Fired-up Korean aims high at ICTSI PH Masters

WHILE Harmie Constantino and Daniella Uy look to bring their brewing rivalry to the next level in the ICTSI Villamor Philippine Masters unfolding Wednesday at the Villamor Golf Club, young Korean Kim Seoyun mounts her own campaign for the elusive first win on the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour.

Runner-up to amateur Rianne Malixi at Riviera last October and to Pauline del Rosario at Caliraya Springs last month, Kim also moved into title contention at Luisita two weeks ago but faded with five bogeys in the first seven holes in the final round and ended up fifth instead after a 78.

“The last Luisita tournament was really disappointing. The last day was really stressful. All my shots were a mess. Nevertheless, I think it’s a point where I can try again,” said Kim.

There’s really no way to go for the 16-year-old campaigner but up and she worked on her irons during the break in pursuit of another crack at the crown in the P1 million championship.

“I’m practicing my iron shots intensively. I’m also paying a lot of attention on my game to minimize my mistakes,” added Kim, who will be joined by compatriot Yang Juyoung and amateurs Lee Jiwon Nam Eunhua in the 54-hole event put up by ICTSI.

While the locals, particularly Constantino

who calls the flat but demanding layout home, have the proverbial local knowledge, Kim remains hopeful of her chances for a breakthrough in the tournament organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. and held side-by-side with the men’s tour.

“I haven’t played at Villamor yet. But I heard that the fairways are narrow, so I know that the tee-shot is very important. I will not stop in pursuing my goal and I will always do my best to achieve it.”

So do Constantino and Uy, who are tipped to dispute the crown again after figuring in a heated duel at Luisita with the former snaring the crown in sudden death. Constantino also ruled the inaugural ICTSI Villamor Match Play Invitational last November.

But the rest of the bidders, including top local amateur Mafy Singson, are also all geared up for a shot at the title on a tight course which favors no particular player and which puts emphasis on accuracy and ball control, including Chihiro Ikeda, Marvi Monsalve, Florence Bisera, Pamela Mariano and the steady Sarah Ababa.

Completing the compact cast are Sheryl Villasencio, Gretchen Villacencio, Lovelynn Guioguio, Lucy Landicho, Eva Miñoza, Kristine Fleetwood, Apple Fudolin, Majorie Pulumbarit and Monica Mandario.

Alas shines as Letran rips Manila in PSL U-18

KIEFFER Alas added depth to an already loaded Farm Fresh-Letran team, leading the Milkers to a dominant 10153 win over Magnificent Manila in the Manila Bankers Life-Pilipinas Super League 18-Under NCR Leg on Sunday at the Central Recreational Facility of New Era University in Quezon City.

Alas, an incoming Grade 11 forward out of De La Salle-Zobel, unloaded 18 points on 8-of-17 shooting, leading the Milkers to a 2-0 record for a share of the lead with Taytay in this tournament copresented by SCD and Dumper partylist and supported by J Project Clothings, MDC, Bluesky Advertising, NET 25, Wcube Solutions Inc., Hotel SOGO, and Converge.

Also scoring in double-figures for Farm Fresh-Letran were Andy Gemao with 12 points with five rebounds, Erlance Pedrita with 11 points, and Jonathan Manalili with 10 points.

Antonio Miguel Santos was the sole bright spot for Manila with 16 points and seven rebounds.

In the other NCR game of the day, EZ Jersey-Doc Boleros went up to 2-1 after continuing the struggles of the 0-3 New Era University, 95-73.

Mark De Leon spearheaded the Doc Boleros attack with 18 points and nine boards.

The duo of Rhyle Melencio and Veejay Pre were not to be outdone in the Luzon Leg on the same day and at the same venue, towing Pampanga-Pradera Theme Park to a sizzling 97-82 win over debuting Batang Lakan ng Bulacan for their second win.

Pre, an incoming Grade 12 senior at Far Eastern University-Diliman, produced 22 points and nine rebounds while Melencio, a De La Salle University-commit, tallied a double-double of 12 points and 12 rebounds.

Santiago eyes repeat of full IRONMAN feat

INES Santiago returns to the very site of her big victory last year, eager and ready to make it two-in-a-row in her side of the battle in the Century Tuna full IRONMAN Philippines firing off June 11 at the country’s triathlon capital in Subic Bay.

Santiago scored a wire-to-wire victory when the premier endurance race hit the road again after a two-year hiatus due to pandemic, bucking the back-breaking 3.8km swim, 180km bike and 42km run race and winning it all in 12 hours, 13 minutes and 27 seconds.

The 41-year-old Negrense likewise topped the IRONMAN 70.3 Cebu, also last year, virtually making her the triathlete to beat in the grueling race held side-by-side with the IRONMAN 70.3 to be disputed over the 1.9km swim, 90km bike and 21km run distance.

Santiago, who took up running in 2012 and then added swimming and biking to her exer-

cise regimen, also went on to become the first Filipina finisher in the IM World Championship last Oct. 2022.

Mary Jane Baluyot, who placed second to Santiago in full IRONMAN, is also in the early roster of bidders with the Century TriHard spearhead going all-out to stop the top Herbalife Nutrition bet from re-asserting her mastery of the field in the event organized by The IRONMAN Group/Sunrise Events, Inc.

The centerpiece full IM event sponsored by Century Tuna has lured close to 500 entries with more expected to join the survival of the fittest and the toughest. Registration is ongoing. For listup, visit www.ironman.com/ ironmanphilippines or www.ironman.com/ im703-subicbay.

Keen competition is also seen in the other age categories, both in the male and female sides, including in the 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74

and 75-and-above.

The Subic IRONMAN 70.3 roster has also continued to swell, which also features various age classifications while another stellar field is expected to dispute top honors in the IM 70.3 relay event.

Meanwhile, 50 slots to this year’s World Championship in Nice, France will be up for grabs in the full IRONMAN and IM 70.3. The Kona, Hawaii world tilts, meanwhile, are offering 25 spots in the full IM and 30 seats in the IM 70.3.

Leading the event’s backers are title sponsor Century Tuna, global premier partners Vinfast, Active, Gatorade, Hoka, Roka, Breitling Co., Fulgaz, Hyperice, Qatar Airways, Red Bull, Santini and Wahoo; Asia supplier partners Always Advancing, Ekoi and Nirvana; media partners Outside and Sportgraf.com; venue host Subic Bay, and Lightwater, NLEX/SCTEX, 2Go and Prudential Guarantee.

Brooks Koepka of the United States is with the Wanamaker Trophy after winning the 2023 PGA Championship at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester, New York. AFP

Kim Seoyun eyes elusive first win

By Nickie Wang

THE recent Tindahan

ni Aling Puring Sarisari Store Negosyo Convention witnessed the dazzling presence of stars as Puregold celebrated small business owners nationwide.

Amidst a range of exciting activities, the official press conference for Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile stood out as a notable highlight on the first day.

In attendance was award-winning filmmaker and producer Chris Cahilig who gave the welcome remarks, while director Victor Villanueva both entertained

‘Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile’

stars dazzle at small business owners convention

and inspired the audience as he later related his experiences behind the scenes. Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile marks the latest addition to Puregold Channel’s YouTube retailtainment lineup, following the success of GV Boys and Ang Babae sa Likod ng Face Mask. These online series serve as a platform for Puregold to engage

with young digital natives who are eager to connect with timeless Filipino narratives. The story revolves around Bryce (Wilbert Ross), a young gamer embarking on his uncertain journey into the world of dating, with the virtual support of his wingman, Angge ( Yukii Takahashi). During the press conference, Wilbert

Ross and Yukii Takahashi shared their personal insights on the story and showcased the chemistry that translated from the screen to real-life, captivating the audience. Wilbert’s impressive musical performance during the intermission further delighted the attendees.

As expected, the supporting cast of

Ang Lalaki – Kat Galang (Genski), Migs Almendras (Ketch), Marissa Sanchez (Bessie), Star Orjaliza (Yaya Aimee), Moi Marcampo (Chili Anne), TJ Valderrama (Cyrus), and Anjo Resurreccion (Jerry) –were also around to field questions during the open forum. Big surprises awaited participants at the press conference. Grocery packs worth P2,500 each were raffled off, followed by grand prizes such as brand-new smartphones and laptops.

All in all, the press conference for Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile turned out to be as fun and exciting as the show itself. Vincent Co, President of Puregold Price Club Inc., expressed his satisfaction with the proceedings.

“We are always delighted by the chance to entertain our fellow Filipinos,” said Co. “And we’ve been able to do that with the help of the hard-working cast and crew of Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile. We hope everyone enjoyed the chance to see them up close and personal at this press conference.”

‘The Write One’ treats viewers to a heart-stopping finale

IT’S going to be an enthralling culmination as the narrative of Liam and Joyce reaches its climax in the finale of the romantic drama series The Write One on May 25. Leading up to the conclusion, viewers can anticipate a blend of suspense, drama, and action, including captivating scenes filmed in the illustrious city of Paris.

The Write One marks the maiden collaboration between Ruru Madrid and Bianca Umali , who have adeptly brought to life the characters of Liam and Joyce/Savanna. Enhancing the storyline are Mikee Quintos and Paul Salas who have skillfully portrayed the roles of Via and Hans, respectively.

In the finale, the magical typewriter plays a significant role once again. Liam, Via, and Joyce revise timelines, raising questions about their love. Set in Paris, will they rekindle their relationship or face a bittersweet ending?

This GMA Public Affairs drama showcases iconic Parisian landmarks and fulfills the RuCa couple’s dream.

“It has always been our dream to go there, and we were fortunate enough to be able to go together,” Ruru said.

The two Kapuso stars also gave tourists and locals a glimpse of how talented Filipino actors are during their taping – with some passers-by stopping on their feet to watch them and praising them for their acting skills.

One particular heavy scene got rave reviews from the onlookers.

“After that scene, they all applauded. It’s really heartwarming that they said even though they didn’t understand what we were saying, they still felt the scene,” shared Ruru.

Ruru and Bianca, who are equally excited yet saddened that the series is about to end, cannot thank their supporters enough for the success of The Write One

Kapamilya star Joshua Garcia shares unique experience in GMA

KAPAMILYA actor Joshua Garcia said that it was a different experience on his part when he recently stepped foot on GMA studio to promote the grand soap opera Unbreak My Heart which is the Kapuso’s maiden collaboration with ABS-CBN. The program also stars Jodi Sta. Maria, Richard Yap, and Gabbi Garcia

During a recent interview, Joshua expressed his enthusiasm about his involvement in promoting the project at the GMA studio. He shared that he and Jodi had the opportunity to tape for various Kapuso shows as part of the promotion, and he couldn’t help but gush about the wonderful experience they had.

Contrary to any initial concerns about feeling out of place, Joshua emphasized that they were warmly welcomed by the people at GMA. He spoke highly of the kindness and hospitality displayed by the GMA team, which made them feel comfortable and at ease throughout their time at the studio.

“Of course, considering that we come from the other side, it can’t be avoided. We were just standing in one corner. But that was initial. We are happy that we got to experience All-Out Sundays and I think, we’ll still have a series of guest appearances in other hit Kapuso shows like Family Feud and Eat Bulaga. It’s simply exciting,” Joshua shares.

The young actor is also thankful to Gabbi for personally entertaining him and Jodi during their visit to GMA.

“She toured me inside the studio and it was great. I’m really grateful to ABS and Star Magic for allowing

Jodi and me to promote in GMA programs. As I’ve said earlier, it was an unforgettable experience.”

Apart from Unbreak my Heart the young actor also top-bills the horror potboiler Mga Kaibigan ni Mama Susan under Regal Entertainment which can be seen on Amazon Prime.

“I enjoyed doing the film. For one, it’s something new to me since I don’t have a love team here. I’m glad that I was able to try doing it,” Joshua ends.

* * * Andre Paras recently took to social media to reveal the identity of his current non-showbiz girlfriend named Honey May Escarez

The comedian-host posted their picture when they took a vacation in Boracay. Obviously, the couple was very happy to be with each other as they celebrate their Boracay getaway.

In his post, Andre included the caption from the lyrics of the song “Fly Love” by American celebrity Jamie Foxx. It read: “I know I’m feeling so much more than ever before and so I’m giving more to you than I thought I could do (musical notes emoji).”

On her part, Honey also posted on her Instagram account how sweet she and Andre were on their vacation. Her simple caption to the picture was: “Happier” to which the good-looking actor replied. “I love you so much!”

Interestingly, this is the first time that Andre shared with the public the status of his love life. In a previous interview years ago, he admitted that his last relationship already ended before he entered the ‘biz in 2013.

Ruru expresses gratitude to GMA Network, GMA Public Affairs, and Viu Philippines for the opportunity to be part of The Write One . He thanks his co-actors and viewers for their support.

Meanwhile, Bianca shares that the project was special and taught her valuable lessons about herself and life. She enjoyed working with the cast and production team.

Mikee and Paul are also grateful that they have become part of the hit series.

“I really enjoyed playing Via because her character had many layers. Thank you to everyone who supported our show. We hope you stay with us until the very end because there are a lot of twists that will leave you at the edge of your seats,” said Mikee.

“As Hans in the series, I got to discover more about my acting skills,” said Paul.

“Thank you for loving Hans and for making The Write One part of your viewing habit. We look forward to sharing with you the finale of this series.” The Write One follows the story of Liam, a frustrated writer given a chance to rewrite his love and life story with the help of a mysterious typewriter. He thought he could correct his mistakes in his love story with Joyce, yet his actions only made things

complicated.

From its pilot airing last March, The Write One has been getting praises for its engaging story, splendid cinematography, the swoon-worthy music and original soundtrack, as well as the hugot lines from each episode. Above all, viewers have been raving about the superb acting of the entire cast, which also includes veteran actors Lotlot De Leon, Ramon Christopher, Mon Confiado, Alma Concepcion, and Art Acuna . Sparkle stars Kokoy De Santos, Royce Cabrera, Kaloy Tingcungco, Analyn Barro, Yvette Sanchez, and Euwenn Mikaell Aleta likewise shone bright in their own characters in the story.

This was the first collaboration between Philippine broadcast giant GMA Network and leading pan-regional over-the-top (OTT) video streaming service Viu, The Write One is directed by King Marc Baco with original concept by Executive Producer Mark Anthony Norella

The Write One airs Monday to Thursday, 9:35 p.m. on GMA with simulcast airing on Pinoy TV Hits and I Heart Movies, and at 11:25 p.m. on GTV. Viewers abroad can also catch it via GMA Pinoy TV. – Nickie Wang

Reel and real-life couple Bianca Umali (left) and Ruru Madrid play the lead characters in ‘The Write One’

Yukii Takahashi stars as Angge, the virtual wingman of Bryce Wilbert Ross singing for the crowd in attendance during the event

The cast and crew of ‘Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile’ during the official press conference

The cast of ‘Unbreak My Heart’ (from left) Joshua Garcia, Gabbi Garcia, Jodi Sta. Maria, and Richard Yap

Kapamilya actor Joshua Garcia at the ‘Unbreak My Heart’ celebrity screening

Paul Salas (left) and Mikee Quintos portray the roles of Via and Hans, respectively, enhancing the plot of ‘The Write One’

The SM Mall of Asia Arena ‘eyecon’ through the years and beyond

INSPIRED by the visionary words of their late founder, Henry Sy, Sr. , during the momentous inauguration of the facility back in 2012, the Mall of Asia Arena (MOA) stands as a testament to the exceptional accomplishments and immense talent of the Filipino people on a global scale.

Situated amidst the vibrant SM MOA complex, this remarkable five-story landmark spans  over 64,000 square meters, boasting a versatile

design that caters to various events. With a seating capacity of 15,000 and the ability to accommodate up to 20,000 attendees at maximum ca-

Disney on Ice returns to Manila to celebrate 100 years of Disney

pacity, it truly epitomizes a world-class venue. For over a decade now, this iconic arena has remained dedicated to its mission of revolutionizing the game experience and enhancing the standard of entertainment. And it has been the home of many firsts – whether it’s basketball, volleyball, mixed martial arts, or even e-sports. Basketball highlights include the preseason National Basketball Association (NBA) Global Games with the Houston Rockets and Indiana Pacers, and when NBA legends Lebron James, Steph Curry, and Dennis Rodman came for meet and greets with fans. Regine Velasquez-Alcasid feted her solo

Alliances formed for smart innovations and sustainable projects

JOMOO Philippines, in collaboration with Maxi-mum, partners with ESC Development for a sustainable project in Puerto de San Juan Beach Residences. They also join forces with Mariposa Mews for eco-friendly construction practices.

The signing of their respective contract was formally done on May 18 at the Sofitel Hotel. It was graced by other known personalities and firms in real estate development such as Palafox and Associates and FCLaranang Development Corporation.

Jomoo, acquiring its name from joyful, obligation, more, obtain, oasis, is a company whose products and services are aimed to promote a healthy and smart lifestyle, which entails energy and nature conservation, and environmental awareness. Currently, it has 16 research and development (R&D) centers around the world, a distributorship in more than 120 countries, more than 10,000 high-end showrooms, and more than 300,000 sales outlets. Jomoo has become one of the top 500 Asian Brand with a brand value of over $16 billion, as well as the world’s leading technology bathroom brand with 15 smart manufacturing plans in Germany, France, and China. Considering the state-of-the-art quality, technology, and affordability of Jomoo’s products, SC Development & Management Corporation has contracted its services to provide all the necessary bathroom fixtures, materials, and accessories for Puerto de San Juan Beach Residences.

Puerto de San Juan Beach Residences is an expansion of the renowned Puerto de San Juan Beach Resort Hotel, which has been a popular destination for both foreign and local tourists since the 1990s. This unique project stands as the tallest and largest building under construction in San Juan, La Union.

The project, designed by Palafox Associates, incorporates the natural elements of the site, such as the sun, sea, sand, and surfing— the famous tourist activity in the area. It can be reached via a roughly three-hour drive from Balintawak, Quezon City, using the Tarlac, Pangasinan, La Union Expressway (TPLEX). The travel time is expected to be further reduced

as TPLEX is planned to be extended all the way to San Juan, La Union. With its unique, modern, and state-of-the-art products, Jomoo will help create Puerto de San Juan Beach Residences into a tourist haven that comes into harmony with the local environment. Indeed, tourists who seek relaxation, adventure, and encounter with nature –  the sun, the waves, the wind, and the sand – can now enjoy a unique and unforgettable experience.

The use of environment-friendly materials, application of sustainable development principles, as well as superb design allows an intimate appreciation and experience of the sea, the town itself, and the mountains surrounding it, while living at the same time in a place that practically promotes their sustainability and conservation.

Smart technology and sustainability

Being an environmentally conscientious developer, Mariposa Mews has found the right partner in Jomoo. Their business and development principles do not only coincide, but more so their respective products, technology, and services perfectly complement each other.

Mariposa Mews uses eco-friendly materials

such as Autoclaved Aerated Concrete, mainly made of recycled materials, instead of using the traditional hollow blocks in order to minimize the use of cement and water, thereby reducing carbon emission by fifty percent. Moreover, its building practice mainly focuses on mitigating and avoiding environmental harm by ensuring fresh air filtration and eco-friendly insulation, non-use of volatile organic compounds (VOC) to eliminate harmful chemicals in the construction materials, as well as the application of low impact of air conditioning.

This partnership with Mariposa Mews will undoubtedly infuse new vitality into all its living spaces, turning them into healthy homes located in the heart of a highly urbanized area in Metro Manila. This is accomplished by adhering to the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards, the current benchmark for green building ratings.

This certification process rates every stage  of the property’s design and development for  feasible building practices, underscoring the efforts to lessen environmental harm and ensure  efficient use of energy.

Madonna is another superstar who performed at the MOA Arena

anniversary concert and other local icons Sarah Geronimo, Arnel Pineda, and Lea Salonga shared the same stage to deliver unforgettable performances.

Lady Gaga opened the SM MOA Arena with her Born This Way Ball tour in 2012, which was a sold-out concert. Other superstars who performed are Bruno Mars, Taylor Swift, Madonna, Sam Smith, and Harry Styles

The popularity of Korean K-Pop music has brought legendary acts such as BTS, Blackpink, Twice, EXO, 2NE1, and Stray Kids Excellent customer convenience

The Mall of Asia Arena offers ample parking options, with 2,000 spots available at the Mall of Asia Arena Annex (MAAX) and the National University (NU) Buildings. An additional 1,400 slots are provided for visitors’  convenience. Valet parking services are also available.

The venue is designed to ensure easy navigation with 11 elevators, 28 escalators, and dedicated lanes for individuals with disabilities.

In terms of safety, the SM MOA Arena adheres to international fire and safety standards.  It is equipped with professional-grade, highresolution closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to enhance security measures. SM MOA Arena offers exclusive VIP  packages with premium seating and luxuri-

ous amenities. It provides facilities that meet international standards and features 41 Corporate Suites with top-notch amenities. During the pandemic, it served as a major COVID-19 testing area. Safety measures under #ArenaSafe ensure a secure and enjoyable experience at upcoming events.

Volleyball fans are once again united as the 2023 Men’s Pool of the Volleyball Nations  League takes place from July 4 to 9.

Basketball lovers will witness the Fédération Internationale de Basketball (FIBA) Basketball World Cup 2023 preliminaries and finals  games from August 25 to September 10.

To usher in the Christmas holidays, Disney on Ice comes back to celebrate 100 years of Disney. A schedule of shows will be posted soon, along with the ticket price announcement for December 2023 to January 2024.

In 11 years, SM MOA Arena has become more than a memory-making place. It offers excellent customer convenience, exciting shows, and remains the preferred venue for local and international events.

You may buy tickets for our upcoming shows online at www.smtickets.com or at any authorized SM Tickets outlet nationwide. To know more about SM Mall of Asia Arena, visit www.mallofasia-arena.com or follow @ smmoaarena on social media.

Stories worth sharing

By Angelica Villanueva

DRESSED in a sleek all-black ensemble, I approached a middle-aged woman to extend my congratulations on the momentous occasion when her loved ones gathered to celebrate a significant milestone in her life.

Drawing closer and uttering her name, she warmly embraced me with genuine appreciation, expressing gratitude for my presence at the event. Despite our limited acquaintance, she embraced me wholeheartedly, and in that instant, I realized why numerous individuals chose to join her on that Friday afternoon, overcoming heavy traffic caused by payday and the long weekend.

Known to Ateneans as Ate Alma, Alma Fermano is a photocopy operator at the university and a family breadwinner. The woman somehow became the source of strength for many Ateneans when they felt despair after failing an exam or the person whom they celebrated with when they achieve something.

The pandemic has inflicted immense pain and challenges upon our lives, and the unexpected arrival of another tragedy would only add to the burden. In 2020, when Typhoon Ulysses struck the country, Ate Alma was among those who experienced devastating consequences.

Upon learning about the severe damage inflicted on Ate Alma’s home by the floods, university students took immediate action and initiated a fundraising campaign, leveraging the capabilities of GCash.

Utilizing the power of social media, students and graduates spread the word and began sending their donations to Ate Alma through GCash’s Send Money feature. This feature facilitated real-time and remote donations, allowing volunteers to contribute directly to Ate Alma’s GCash wallet, regardless of their location.

Even alumni from various graduating classes, who held fond memories of Ate Alma, were able to participate and contribute from their respective locations. In the end, thanks to the collective efforts of Ate Alma’s community, enough funds were raised to provide her and her family with essential goods, significantly easing their path to recovery after the devastating typhoon.

“To be honest, GCash has been a tremendous help to me. I can’t believe it because it’s my

first time experiencing this. Thank you so much to GCash,” Ate Alma shared in the vernacular.

“I was really surprised, I never expected that there would be such a large amount that quickly arrived. Imagine, it reached 100,000 in my GCash. They really kept sending donations through GCash until our house was rebuilt,” she continued.

Directed by Antoinette Jadaone, the second GCash story tells the life of Ate Alma and how the digital wallet changed her life in one snap with the help of people whom she had touched once in their life.

#GCashStories is a series launched by GCash to highlight stories of hope and progress to inspire millions of people that there is still hope strength and light in times of struggle.

#GCashStories is everyone’s story,” said Neil Trinidad GCash’s Chief Marketing Officer. “And this campaign aims to turn our moments into movements.”

Ate Alma’s story succeeded the first GCash story which featured the life of Cocoy Rubio who became a small business owner with the help of GCash’s different services after losing his job due to the pandemic. Thanks to GLoan, Cocoy was able to start his own business and make the necessary transactions that helped him succeed.

The digital wallet app is set to release more #GCashStories in the future. But for now, get your tissues ready and be inspired by watching the story of Ate Alma and the community that rallied behind her here.

The iconic eye-shaped exterior of the Mall of Asia Arena

Numerous basketball games use the MOA Arena as their official venue

Filipino-American singer-songwriter Bruno Mars is among the foreign acts who performed at the MOA Arena

Taylor Swift joins the roster of international stars who used the MOA Arena as a venue

The popularity of K-pop attracts legendary acts like BTS to perform in Manila

Ate Alma gets reunited with some Ateneo alumni

Alma Fermano is a photocopy operator and a family breadwinner

Representatives of Puerto de San Juan Beach Residences, an expansion of the renowned Puerto de San Juan Beach Resort Hotel

Jomoo is a company whose products and services are aimed to promote a healthy and smart lifestyle, as evident in their employees and partnerships

Mariposa Mews uses eco-friendly materials to breathe new life to their projects