THE weather disturbance outside the Philippine area of responsibility, with international name “Mawar,” intensified into a super typhoon on Tuesday, the state weather bureau said.
In its 4 p.m. bulletin, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astro -
CONGRESS will decide next week what sanctions to impose on Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr., who has refused to return to the country to face murder charges, even as three suspects in the killing of Gov. Roel Degamo recanted their testimony identifying him as the mastermind behind the assassination.
The House committee on ethics is considering a call to expel Teves from the chamber for his failure to return to the country despite repeated calls for him to do so, but the panel’s recommendations must be approved by the House in plenary session Wednesday next week.
In addition, the panel, chaired by Rep. Felimon Espares of the NATCCO party-list group, may recommend to the Department of Foreign Affairs the cancellation of Teves’ official (red) passport.
Espares also revealed that his committee tried to reach Teves, urging him to come home before his suspension expired on May 22, and that Teves replied to their correspondence. Espares, however, declined to say how Teves replied.
SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, president of the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (CMD), on Tuesday administered the oath to 19 new party members.
By Rey E. Requejo
and Othel
CamposTHE Supreme Court has declared Manila Water Co. and Maynilad Water Services Inc. as public utilities, which effectively bars them from including their corporate income taxes as part of their operating expenses.
“We rule that Manila Water and Maynilad are public utilities,” the Court said in a decision written by Associate Justice Marvic Leonen.
“A public utility is a business or service engaged in regularly supplying the public with some commodity or service of public consequence such as electricity, gas, water, transportation, telephone or
AGRICULTURE Senior Undersecre-
tary Domingo Panganiban on Tuesday told a Senate hearing that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the importation of sugar “through selected importers.”
But when pressed repeatedly by senators, Panganiban backtracked and clarified: “Let’s import. Yan lang ang sinabi sa akin (That’s only what he told me).”
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, who was present in the same hearing,
told senators he was the one who approved the importation as the President was busy at a foreign trip at that time.
“There was guidance from the President. But I confirmed that I was the one who instructed Usec. Panganiban to proceed with the processing of the sugar order and to attend to this issue of importation,” said Bersamin.
In a news briefing after the hearing, Sen. Francis Tolentino noted that Panganiban already made the clarification,
nomical Services Administration said Mawar was last spotted 2,285 kilometers east of Visayas at 3 p.m., packing maximum sustained winds of up to 185 kilometers per hour near the center and gusts of 230 kph. ABS-CBN says TeleRadyo channel to cease its operations by June 30
By Charles Dantes and Darwin G. AmojelarMEDIA giant ABS-CBN Corp. on Tuesday announced that its long-running television channel TeleRadyo will
cease its operations on June 30 – about three years after it lost its free-to-air and cable TV franchises when Congress turned down its renewal under the Duterte administration.
telegraph service,” the Court said. The Court resolved the petition filed by former Bayan Muna party-list representatives Neri Colmenares and Carlos Zarate who assailed the inclusion by the Manila Water and Maynilad corporate income taxes in their re -
“We welcome our new members and we are happy that they affiliated themselves with Lakas-CMD, which has committed itself to support President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his Agenda for Prosperity and eight-point socioeconomic development roadmap,” Romualdez said.
“I hope we will have a fruitful engagement with those joining our ranks and of course with our existing members,” he added.
Party officials led by former President and Deputy
By Macon Ramos-AranetaFIVE more police officers were cited for contempt on Tuesday at a Senate hearing on a suspicious P6.7 billion drug bust in Manila last year, leading the panel’s chairman, Senator Ronald dela Rosa to fall to his knees and beg cops to tell the truth.
“I am kneeling before you. Please speak. Pity the Philippines,” said Dela Rosa as he rose from his seat and knelt down.
Dela Rosa, who used to be a police chief, said he
humbled himself so that the policemen would tell the truth about the drug bust, led by then Master Sgt. Rodolfo Mayo Jr., in which 42 of the 990 kilos seized went missing.
Mayo, who has been detained at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig after being cited for contempt, has been accused of being behind a cover-up that involves other police officials as well.
Dela Rosa’s committee cited in contempt five other policemen: National Capital Region Drug Enforcement
By Macon Ramos-AranetaFORMER President Rodrigo Duterte as the anti-drug czar?
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, Duterte’s erstwhile longtime assistant, broached the idea to Philippine Nation-
al Police Chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. on Tuesday during a Senate hearing on the multimillion-peso shabu drug haul last year.
“If ever.... it’s the prerogative of the President (Ferdinand Marcos Jr.), the appointing authority, if ever, can former
President Duterte help in case he will be designated as drug czar?” Go asked Acorda in the hearing chaired by Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa – the police chief in the previous administration. Acorda said he did not know if he
‘Mawar’
“In accordance with our committee rules, that is confidential,” Espares said. Espares said his committee will stop its proceedings against Teves if the congressman decides to return in the coming days.
Espares made the announcement after his committee deliberated on the continued absence of Teves in congressional proceedings amid murder and other related complaints filed against him in connection with the March 4 assassination of Degamo.
Teves’ 60-day suspension over his continued absence despite an expired travel authority expired on May 22.
“We all know this is about his continuing absence. He is outside the country on an expired travel authority. That is an unauthorized absence,” Espares told reporters.
“If he comes home, maybe the committee won’t proceed,” Espares added.
On March 22, the. House voted to suspend Teves for 60 days over his continued absence despite an expired travel authority.
Rep. Ria Vergara of Nueva Ecija, vice chair of the House committee on ethics, for her part, said “Teves’ continuous unauthorized absence is continuous disorderly conduct.”
Meanwhile, three more detained suspects recanted their testimonies in which they admitted their role in the killing of Degamo and nine others, and implicated Teves as the mastermind, joining Jhudiel R. Rivero, who took
back his account earlier.
Lawyer Danny Villanueva, counsel for the four suspects, said on Tuesday his clients have executed their affidavits of recantation.
Villanueva said he represents suspects Rivero, Dahniel P. Lora, Romel A. Pattaguan and Rogelio C. Antipolo Jr.
He declined, however, to show journalists copies of their affidaits before they are submitted to the Department of Justice (DOJ).
In the case of Rivero, his counter-affidavit submitted to the DOJ recanted an affidavit in which he admitted his participation in the Pamplona killings, saying he was forced by the police to implicate Teves.
Villanueva said the affidavits of recantations were supposed to be attached to the counter-affidavit of Rivero.
“However, the panel of state prosecutors required us to submit the sworn statements executed by the PNP (Philippine National Police) of Negros Oriental as well as those allegedly executed by our clients before the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation),” he said.
During the preliminary investigation on Monday, May 22, Villanueva recalled that he argued that it should be the panel which should provide the copies of the sworn statements since these are being used against his four clients.
Explaining Rivero’s affidavit of recantation, Villanueva said: “It is not true that he changed his statements because his admission that he was part of the group did not come from him. It is not true that he is linking other people in the crime includ-
ing Mr. Teves,” he added.
The NBI has filed before the DOJ 10 murder, 14 frustrated murder, and four attempted murder complaints against Teves. The DOJ has not acted on the complaints.
Teves, who opted to stay abroad despite the expiration of his official travel last March 9, has denied the allegations against him.
The Philippine National Police brushed off Rivero’s claims that he was tortured and forced to implicate Teves.
“While self-serving motives can influence testimonial evidence, our reliance on objective facts and forensic findings provides an unassailable foundation,” PNP said in a statement.
“We place paramount importance on ensuring that justice is served, and we will not allow any distractions or attempts to undermine the investigation’s integrity,” it added.
Rivero on Monday, said that he was threatened to point to Teves as the mastermind behind the attack on Degamo that resulted in the death of the governor and nine others.
Three other suspects followed suit.
The PNP, however, assured the public that the recantations will not affect the development in the case and the national force remained committed to upholding human rights.
“The pursuit of justice, coupled with the protection of human rights, will remain our top priority, and we will leave no stone unturned in our quest for truth and accountability,” said PNP.
“As Degamo’s multiple murder case
Sugar Regulatory Authority (SRA) is just one of them.
progresses, it is crucial to emphasize the unwavering commitment of the PNP to upholding human rights. We firmly believe that protecting and promoting human rights are fundamental principles that must be maintained in all our operations,” the statement added.
The national police believed that the country’s judicial system will be competent and effective enough to uphold the principles of justice.
The PNP’s investigation was also aided by the National Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Justice, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Also on Tuesday, Teves’ lawyer Ferdinand Topacio filed a motion to dismiss the charges against his client for three murders in 2019.
“What we are pointing out is there is only one person saying congressman Teves is behind the alleged murders in the evidence submitted,” Topacio said.
A confession only binds the confessor, and that it is not believable if there is no corroborating evidence.
“The easiest thing to do in the world is to point fingers (at someone)… but without corroboration, it is unbelievable,” he said.
He said he hoped the prosecutors would not be influenced by the repeated pronouncements by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla that Teves was guilty.
“I still have faith [that] the DOJ is made up of prosecutors who are career officers and I hope that they will prove faithful to their duty to dispense justice without fear or favor,” he said.
coverable operating expenses, a practice that jacked up the price of water through the years.
“In sum, Manila Water and Maynilad may not recover [their] corporate income taxes as operating expenses during the lifetime of the concession agreements considering that they are public utilities. Even assuming that they are not public utilities, they cannot recover income taxes because they are not business taxes under Philippine law,” the Court ruled.
It said “allowing Maynilad to include its corporate income taxes in the rates chargeable to water consumers -taxes which, to repeat, do not inure to the benefit of water consumers -- will result not only in unjust but also inequitable rates.”
“A large segment of the water consuming public will be made to pay for something that has no direct benefit to them, while some will enjoy water services without shouldering the same burden. This cannot be allowed,” the Court said.
Maynilad Water Services, Inc. said it has already accepted its status as a public utility when it signed the revised concession agreement, which came with a congressional franchise.
(DEG) OIC Lt. Col. Arnulfo Ibañez, Pol. Master Sgt. Carlo Bayeta, Pat. Rommar Bugarin, Pat. Hustin Peter Gular, Pat. Hassan Kalaw, and Pat. Dennis Carolino. They declined to share information on the arrest of Mayo in Bambang last year.
Senator Raffy Tulfo suggested to Dela Rosa to cite Ibañez for contempt for testifying that he was not aware of his subordinate’s activities.
Earlier, Ibañez claimed he was innocent and had no knowledge of Mayo’s movements, which Tulfo doubted.
Last week, Dela Rosa ordered P/ Capt. Jonathan Sosongco of the PNP Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) to be detained for lying.
Visibly irritated with the “many lies” in Sosongco’s testimony, Dela Rosa directed the Office Of the Sergeant at Arms to escort Sosongco to the building’s detention facility in the basement.
During the hearing, Dela Rosa pressed Sosongco for information about the informant who tipped off P/ Master Sgt. Rodolfo Mayo about the drugs. But a cell phone number provided by Sosongco no longer worked.
At this juncture, Dela Rosa flared up and accused Sosongco of fooling the senators and wasting their time so he asked Senator Robinhood Padilla to ask the Senate panel that the police officer be cited for contempt.
Sosongco was among the policemen the PNP said should be charged for the cover-up involving the multi-billionpeso drug operation.
Padilla, meanwhile, has filed Senate Bill 2217 seeking the death penalty for law enforcers and elective officials involved in the drug trade.
which was supported by Bersamin.
A former Chief Justice, Bersamin also said the sugar import from Thailand that entered the country last March covered by Sugar Order No. 6 “was legitimate and fully authorized by the government.”
President Marcos directed the importation of sugar to arrest its high cost in local markets after he was told of a “sugar inflation.”
Repeatedly confronted by opposition
Senators Risa Hontiveros and Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III on his earlier statement about the President telling him to import through “selected importers,” Panganiban insisted Mr. Marcos merely said, “Let’s import.”
Testifying to the Senate for the first time, Bersamin stressed nothing irregular in the most recent sugar importation, nor there was an effort for cartelization.
“This was undertaken by the government to address inflation in the months leading to January 2023. The administration made sure that there was buffer stock as a measure to regulate price increases. In a large way, the objective was realized,” Bersamin said.
He said the 440,000 metric tons of imported sugar under SO6 was legally covered by a presidential directive.
The Executive Secretary explained there are at least four ways of legally importing sugar, and an order from the
The three others are the use of Minimum Access Volume (MAV) program, the provisions of the Price Act, and a direct order from the President.
Bersamin noted that this is the case in the 440,000 MT of sugar from Thailand branded by Hontiveros as smuggled.
“Subsequently, the SRA issued SO No. 6 to cover this importation so that there will be proper documentation that would allow the Bureau of Customs and other concerned agencies to process and release the shipments,” said Bersamin.
He also said the President issued the directive to import sugar in a meeting with DA officials. Following that, Bersamin said he issued a memo on January 13 and ordered the DA to implement its recommendations to the President on the 2nd Sugar Importation Program for the Crop Year 2022-2023.
He emphasized that Panganiban acted upon his orders.
“Neither was there any violation committed by any of the parties who are involved in these questioned transactions, and that new policies are probably needed to avoid confusion in importation procedures.”
Bersamin also denied rushing the importation or favoring certain traders. He said the three sugar importers were selected from among seven companies shortlisted.
In the same hearing, sugar traders who were accused of carrying out the so-called “government-sponsored
terte administration would be put to waste considering the alleged involvement of some cops in the “recycling” of confiscated drugs.
smuggling” also explained there was no irregularity in the importation because taxes and duties were paid for the imported sugar.
Michael Escaler, CEO of All Asian Countertrade -- one the three importers referred to in the hearing -- said he built a world-class Philippine trading company that helps small farmers.
“All Asian Countertrade is the largest buyer of sugar from Filipino farmers. It balances its earnings from the high prices of domestic sugar and the relatively low prices of international sugar,” he said.
“We need to keep local sugar production viable. We import sugar only to fill the gap that the domestic industry cannot supply. Strengthening local sugar production is key to the country’s food security,” Escaler said.
Meanwhile, Bersamin related that the SRA became part of the sugar importation regulation process in 2002 when a memorandum order expressly stated that no sugar will be imported without an SRA clearance.
Those without an SRA clearance will be referred to the Bureau of Customs for duties and charges, while SRA will perform market classification for its disposition pursuant to rules and regulations, the Executive Secretary said of the process.
“That’s why a sugar order is not needed prior to importation,” Bersamin said.
Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan and Trade chief Alfredo Pascual said they have established that the “tight” supply of sugar has been driving its price up since last year.
He mentioned that his case over the bloody drug war – which government figures said cost over 6,000 lives -- has now reached the International Criminal Court (ICC).
could comment on that “and what will be the setup,” but assured the senators he would be supportive of any decision by President Marcos on the campaign against illegal drugs.
Duterte or the Palace have yet to comment on this possibility as of press time.
“Let’s not waste what former President Duterte started to fight against illegal drugs. When illegal drugs return, we know that criminality and corruption will return,” he said.
“The ruling merely affirms that our existing tariff does not include past or future income taxes; this principle has already been established in our past rate rebasing exercises. This means that corporate income tax is not part of our operating expenses,” the water company said Tuesday.
“Being a public utility basically means we cannot pass on corporate income tax as an expense, and fact is Manila Water has excluded CIT from its operating expense since 2013,” Manila Water said in a separate statement.
While Mawar – to be called “Betty” when it enters PH territory -- has no direct effect on the country’s weather yet, it may enter the PAR by Friday or Saturday, PAGASA said.
Mawar is also expected to enhance the southwesterly wind flow, which could bring rains to the western parts of Visayas and Mindanao.
It is not expected to hit land, but PAGASA said it will continue monitoring its movement.
The Marcos administration, meanwhile, assured the public on Tuesday that preparations are underway for the possible effects of Mawar, particularly in the Ilocos and Cagayan Valley regions.
In a press briefing in Malacañan Palace, Social Welfare Secretary Rexlon “Rex” Gatchalian said the department has already prepositioned goods in different parts of the country.
“We have worked with PAGASA on the modeling where it seems (the storm is) going to, it seems at this point, since it’s very early. It’s going to affect Regions II, Regions I, all the way to Batanes,” he said.
The DSWD has augmented the stockpile of food packs in northern Luzon in preparation for the storm, he added.
Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Chairperson Emeritus; Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe, Executive Vice President; and Agusan del Norte Rep. Jose Aquino II, Secretary General attended the oath-taking ceremony at the House of Representatives.
Fourteen of the 19 new members physically attended the oath-taking ceremony while four others submitted their oath of membership.
Those who attended the oath-taking event were Roberto “Pinpin” Uy Jr. and former Zamboanga del Norte Gov. Roberto Uy Sr.; incumbent Mayors Lorrymir Adasa (Mutia), Marissa Manigsaca (Rizal), Rosendo Labadlabad (Sindangan), Allan Ferrater (Jose Dalman), Jose Micheal Meiko Wong (Katipunan), Eugene Caballero (Manukan), Ismael Renquijo Jr. (President Manuel Roxas), Alberto Bongcawel (Siayan), Salvador Antojado Jr. (Kalawit), Jelster Ed Tiu Quimbo (Labason), and Norabeth Tuse Carloto (Tampilisan); and Julita, Leyte Councilor Jude Andrei Romualdez.
Those who submitted their oath of membership were Evelyn Uy, and incumbent Mayors Eufracio Caidic (Sibutad), Darel Dexter Uy (Dipolog City), Eddie Justin Quimbo (Gutalac), Roberto “Jun” Uy Jr. (Liloy).
Lakas-CMD is now the largest political party in Congress.
Go raised his question after expressing concern that the efforts of the Du-
“What I feel bad about is that my case has reached the ICC because of our fight against drugs,” Dela Rosa said.
“Since ABS-CBN can no longer sustain TeleRadyo’s operations, ABS-CBN is left with no choice but to cease the operations of TeleRadyo effective 30 June 2923,” the company said in a statement.
However, ABS-CBN Corp. said Tuesday it signed a joint venture agreement with Prime Media Holdings Inc. to produce various content and programs.
The Lopez-led media and entertainment company said it would continue providing news to the public through a joint venture with Prime Media to produce various programs, which would be supplied to broadcasters and other third-party platforms including Philippine CollectiveMedia Corp. (PCMC).
“Under the agreement, ABS-CBN will have a minority stake in the joint venture, and Prime Media Inc. will be the majority stakeholder,” ABS-CBN said.
“This gives some of our former personnel a chance to find job opportunities. It is also a way to continue providing accurate and balanced news and information in the country,” its
Dela Rosa, who was the first PNP chief of the Duterte administration, also aired his frustration against the cops involved.
statement added.
Prime Media said in a separate disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange the agreement is in line with its strategic plan to venture into media and entertainment by securing partnerships for content development, production, and distribution to expand its business.
Prime Media said the joint venture with ABS-CBN formalizes the agreement to develop, produce, and finance content, programs, and shows for distribution to local and international broadcast networks, channels, and platforms.
This will expand Prime Media’s business segments and provide streams of revenue such as equity investment and share in future projects, it said. Prime Media is trading under the PSE ticker symbol “PRIM.”
Under the agreement, ABS-CBN will have 49 percent equity with an initial subscription of 19.6 million shares for P19.6 million, and Prime Media will have 51 percent equity and an initial subscription of 20.4 million shares for P20.4 million.
The initial authorized capital stock of the joint venture amounted to P100 million, consisting of 100 million
“Despite this, all you think about is money. You are even in a syndicate,” the senator said, adding he could not stomach this happening to the police “where you join a syndicate.”
common shares with a par value of P1.
Upon incorporation of the JVC, the board of directors will be composed of nine members, with five members appointed by Prime Media and four members by ABS-CBN.
ABS-CBN said the partnership with Prime Media would give its former personnel a chance to find job opportunities after it announced that TeleRadyo would cease operations next month.
“It is also a way to continue providing accurate and balanced news and information to the country,” ABS-CBN said.
ABS-CBN said that since 2020, TeleRadyo has been incurring financial losses to the already beleaguered media company.
TeleRadyo debuted in April 2007 as DZMM TeleRadyo, but went radio silent after the cease-and-desist order issued against ABS-CBN in May 2022.
A few days later TeleRadyo returned live, airing through YouTube and Facebook. In May 2020, the National Telecommunications Commission ordered ABSCBN to cease its operations due to the expiration of its legislative franchise.
Three years since ABS-CBN went off-air, numerous bills seeking to grant
“Right now, the average will be around 30,000 to 50,000 (packs) in those two regions, independently of each other. It has been prepositioned. But we are doubling it up. The goal here is to double it before the end of business tomorrow,” Gatchalian said, adding they will start mobilizing as early as this weekend. Vince Lopez and Rio Araja
the broadcasting network a fresh 25-year franchise remain pending in Congress.
ABS-CBN said TeleRadyo had been incurring financial losses since 2020, and it could no longer sustain its operations.
“The company is deeply saddened by this closure and having to part ways with the many passionate and committed people who have made Teleradyo an important source of news and information for many Filipinos,” the firm said.
PCMC has been operating since 2009 and was recently granted a national franchise. It operates a television station in Tacloban and 13 radio stations under the FMR (Favorite Music Radio) network.
PCMC also has radio stations in Catbalogan, Calbayog, Catarman, Borongan, Ormoc, Iloilo, Camiguin, Zamboanga Sibugay, Butuan, Davao de Oro, Tagum and Iligan.
ABS-CBN is a media organization known for creating and producing programs for different platforms through partnerships with local broadcasters. It has a streaming service, third-party platforms, domestic and international theater chains, and co-production and syndication agreements with global streaming platforms, and international studios.
GOVERNMENT agents have arrested a Salvadorian tourist who reportedly attempted to smuggle into the country an estimated P16.5 million worth of cocaine through the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
The suspected drug mule was identified as Franco Quintanilla Domingo, from El Salvador who arrived at the NAIA Terminal 3 on Monday via Qatar Airways flight QR 932 from Doha.
Customs X-ray Inspection Project (XIP) personnel put an X marking after seeing suspicious images at the suspect’s backpack. The examiners immediacy placed the bag under physical examination, resulting in the discovery
of at least three kilos of cocaine with a street value of P16.5 million.
The arrest resulted from an intelligence information received by the Bureau of Customs (BOC from the Department of Homeland Security in El Salvador.
“This is to coordinate with your good office the arrival of suspicious traveler identified as - Domingo, Franco Quintanilla - (Date of Birth: November 20, 1977) and (Passport No. A02333631) was in Brazil and left a couple of weeks ago and is expected to arrive in Manila today via OR932 DOHA-MNL). HSI Manila would like to provide information related to this suspicious traveler to act on as your agency deems necessary.
Please let us know of the development, if any regarding her travel,” the ti-off stated.
“After we received this information from the Homeland Security, immediately we are on the lookout for this person and his luggage,” a Customs agent told Manila Standard.
The foreigner is now in police cus-
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday has appointed award-winning journalist and two-time National Book Award recipient Jose Torres Jr. as director general of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA).
The appointment of Torres, known for his acumen in investigative reporting and vast experience in journalist, was seen to strengthen PIA’s mission of disseminating information about government programs, projects, and services to the Filipino public.
“I am grateful to President Marcos for the opportunity and the privilege to serve the country in these trying times of misinformation and disinformation,” said Torres, who has been covering Pope Francis’s trips to Asia in recent years as a member of the Vatican Accredited Media Personnel.
The PIA serves as the country’s primary information arm, with a network span-
tody and will be charged with violating Republic Act No. 9165, the Comprehensive Drug Act, and RA 10863, the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) before the Pasay City prosecutor’s office.
Airport authorities have heightened vigilance in the campaign against illegal drug trafficking in a bid to discourage international drug syndicates from using the Philippines as a transshipment point for illegal substance. Customs officials said their campaign against the drug trade full supports Commissioner Bien Rubio’s border control initiatives.
Two months ago, a Turkish national was also caught with a luggage loaded with cocaine worth more than P28.8 million at the airport. The suspect Kemal Ozenir brought in the luggage from Dubai via Emirates Airlines flight EK332
In October, Customs agents also arrested a Norwegian tourist for bringing in a shipment of eight kilos of shabu worth P56.7 million.
DELIVERY of the country’s first bivalent COVID-19 vaccines will be delayed again, the Department of Health (DOH) said on Tuesday.
that target both the original and omicron strains of the virus.
ning 16 regional offices and 78 provincial information centers.
The agency was mandated is to empower Filipinos by providing them with accurate and timely information, enabling them to actively participate in the nation’s democratic processes.
Beginning his career as a writer for the alternative news service Philippine News and Features in the late 1980s, he has since made significant contributions to the field of journalism.
In the early 1990s, his groundbreaking reporting, later published into the book “Into the Mountain: Hostaged by the Abu Sayyaf,” shed light on the activities of the notorious bandit group in the southern Philippines.
Throughout his career, Torres has worked for various media outlets, both in the Philippines and abroad.
He served as a sub-editor for Saudi Gazette, the national newspaper of Saudi Arabia, as an investigative reporter for the now-defunct Isyu newsmagazine, and wrote for The Manila Times, The Philippine Post, and The Sunday Paper.
THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has denied a P15.3-million demand payment made by Impact Hub Manila for expenses incurred in the 2022 presidential and vice presidential debates due to lack of documentary requirements.
The Comelec, in a letter dated May 19, 2023 and signed by executive director Teofisto Elnas Jr, noted that requests for payment should be made with an invoice. It added that “claims for payment not compliant with the pertinent procurement, accounting and auditing rules will not be processed” as this could result in disallowance by the Commission on Audit. “In this regard, the Commission is constrained to deny Impact Hub’s claim for P15,300,000,” it added.
Impact Hub Manila tried to collect from the poll body last week.
In a letter dated April 27, 2023, Impact Hub said the memorandum of agreement it entered with Comelec still stands even if the poll body “decided to unilaterally reschedule and eventually cancel the debates.”
Impact Hub Manila warned that it will “avail legal remedies under the law to recover the debt and to protect the company’s interest” should Comelec fail to respond or to make a payment arrangement within the next five days upon receipt of the collection notice.
In its reply, the Comelec invoked the rules provided by the Generic Procurement Manual Volume 2-Procurement of Goods and Services, which states that requests for payment “shall be made in writing, accompanied by an invoice describing, as appropriate, the goods delivered and/or services performed, by documents submitted pursuant to the contract, and upon fulfillment of other obligations stipulated in the contract as well as upon inspection and acceptance of the goods by the appropriate Technical and Inspection Committee.”
Elnas said the payment necessitates that the supplier fulfilled its obligations in accordance with the contract and delivery of goods or performance of service, must be duly substantiated, and found compliant with the terms and conditions of the contract.
“Claims for payment not compliant with the pertinent procurement, accounting, and auditing rules will not be processed,” Elnas said.
“Otherwise, such payment can be the subject of disallowance by the Commission on Audit, together with its concomitant consequences, i.e. criminal, civil, and administrative liabilities,” the Comelec official added. Vito Barcelo
DOH officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire said earlier the country would receive within the week some 390,000 doses of the adapted version of the original vaccine.
“As per the DOH - Bureau of International Health Cooperation (BIHC), there shall be a slight delay in the arrival of the bivalent vaccines as there are permits that are still needed to be coordinated,” the DOH said in a statement.
“Rest assured that the Department of Health is exhausting all efforts to receive the vaccines by the end of the month,” it added. Bivalent vaccines are modified jabs
A department memorandum regarding the administration of the omicronspecific vaccines has been signed, the DOH bared.
“With regard to the preparation and implementation of the roll-out of the bivalent vaccine, the Department Memorandum has already been signed and only awaiting for its release,” the DOH added.
Delivery of the bivalent vaccines was first put on hold in March while the DOH explored other legal remedies.
The delay came after the country’s state of calamity for COVID-19, which had clauses on indemnification and immunity from liability, expired on December 31.
FOR the people of Marawi City, the fateful date of May 23 not only reopens a lot wounds, but also inflames with even greater vigor their will to face the future, along with the peace and prosperity it may bring.
There were untold stories of daring escapes, rescue, and starvation, and the residents’ will to survive, and their tenacity found comfort in economic and social displacements.
It may be recalled that one vital component of the city’s defense from the terror siege six years ago was the communications base set up for the residents by Lanao del Sur Gov. Bombit Alonto Adiong Jr. at the provincial capitol building, and unaltered since Day One. This had kept Marawi City within the sphere of monitoring and information exchanges with the rest of the world.
The masked black-dressed extremists had occupied the Marawi City Hall and the functional uninterrupted radio and other communications systems helped authorities reach out to Marawi City Mayor Majul Bandambra at his office at the height of the siege.
Lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo dared to enter Marawi City for the kindred and his wife Ross who was in the city on the first day of the siege on May 23. He recalled that residents fled the heavy fighting that lasted for weeks, escaping through the “backdoor” to reach peace and quiet within the mountain ranges of Kapai and Tagoloan townships northeast of strife-torn Marawi.
The Philippine Army Scout Rangers took the same route to reach Marawi and reinforce government troops already in the thick of the fighting on “Ground Zero.”
The augmentation units included the elite Marines of the Philippine Navy to buttress an assault force moving toward the Banggolo Bridge on the third day of the siege.
By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Maricel V. CruzAFTER more than 30 hours, fire authorities officially declared the blaze at the historic Manila Central Post Office tapped out.
Meanwhile, Senate Finance committee chairman Juan Edgardo Angara said he was directed by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri to work with the budget department following the post office fire.
At the Lower House, Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers urged the national government to rebuild the Central Post Office for its historical significance, cultural heritage and national pride, with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) taking the lead role.
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), in an update report, said the conflagration was over at i6:33 a.m. Tuesday.
Fifteen people, most of them firefighters, were reported hurt due while trying to put out the fire that broke out late
Sunday night. Their injuries ranged from lacerations to first-degree burns.
Some of the firemen also felt dizziness and chest pains.
The BFD estimated the damage at P300 million, saying at least two structures of the complex burned to the ground.
Manila Fire District chief of intelligence and investigation division senior inspector Alejandro Ramos said they had to make sure that the fire would not rekindle. Ramos said the extreme heat and lack of ventilation in the basement of
Sinarimbo now heads the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MILG-BARMM)
But the memories and emotional scars of the that nightmarish weeks of siege of their beloved city lingered even as the people began picking up the pieces to rebuild their shattered lives after the last bullet was fired. Even the womenfolk walked the extra mile to help in the reconstruction process.
Amir Sab Paisal Macatanong opened his family-owned two-hectare fertile agricultural land for the evacuees to grow vegetables in and sell their products to neighboring provinces to survive the famine and poverty that followed not much later.
Mariam Naik, the municipal agriculture officer of Saguiaran, Marilou Sopocado, provincial coordinator of the High-Value Crop Development Program, and Senior Agriculturist and Alfreda Telto—all women— helped develop a model self-reliant relocation site for the Marawi evacuees, hosted by residents of Barangay Pagalamatan in nearby Saguiaran town. Efforts were heightened to effectively prevent all possibilities for the infamous siege to ever happen again.
Improving governance and security preparedness at community level in the neighboring villages is the key to sustainable recovery, says Minister Sinarimbo of the MILG- BARMM.
The MILG implements the BARMM counterpart of the Marawi Rehabilitation Program, allocated with a Special Development Fund Program for Marawi Rehabilitation (SDFPMR) under the Office of Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Al-Hadj Murad Ebrahim.
Lady Mayor Khalida Palao Sangila of Pagayawan said as a mother that she is, there is a soft spot in one’s heart. But as a leader a woman has to be firm and decisive on issues affecting her more than 6,000 constituents.
the iconic post office was a problem for the firefighters.
Arson probers were still trying to determine the cause of the 30-hour fire.
Philippine Postal Corp. (PHLPost) chief Luis Carlos said the stamps in the museum, the Manila Central Post Office building itself, and their records are among the most valuable things that burned.
“We have to work with the budget department towards finding funds to help restore the Manila Post office, Angara said.
Comelec rejects firm’s P15.3-m collection bid
Central Post Office fire lasts 30 hours; solons already eyeingBIG COCAINE HAUL. A composite team of government agents seizes cocaine valued at P16.5 million found in the luggage of an incoming passenger at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. The operatives from the Bureau of Customs, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG), apprehended suspected drug mule. AFTER THE FIRE. Mailmen sort out what remained of envelopes containing national identification cards from Pasay City and delivered directly to the Philpost Surface Mail Exchange Department and Logistic Office of the historic Manila Central Post Office Building near Plaza Lawton which caught massive fire Sunday night. Norman Cruz NEW BARANGAY HALL. The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao turns over this newly built barangay hall to village leaders in Marawi City through regional officials led by Local Government Minister Naguib G. Sinarimbo in Watu Balindong. Nash B. Maulan
THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is set to pilot-test its food stamp program in the second half of the year, Secretary Rex Gatchalian said on Tuesday.
In a press briefing in Malacañang, the DSWD chief said they are now in the design stage of the program to properly fill in the gaps that may be overlooked during its implementation.
“We are working with PSA’s [Philippine Statistics Authority] in-house poverty expert who is their Usec – Usec. Dennis Mapa – he is helping us craft the concept there. So, the remaining days of May and June, we will work on designing it. Now, July to December will be the pilot run to vet the (program) properly,” Gatchalian added.
With the help of the Marcos administration’s economic team, Gatchalian said the DSWD is trying to package the financing side of the food stamp program of the national government, hoping to launch the actual run in the first quarter of next year.
“But we have to point out that we will not also do it simultaneously (for the targeted) one million (families). That’s trouble waiting to happen. We have to do it in a progressive manner. We have to do the pilot at 3,000 families; 300,000 hopefully next year sa first run; another 300,000 right after and then hopefully reach the magic number of one million in the succeeding year,” he said.
He pointed out that throughout the program, the DSWD will continuously monitor and measure the beneficiaries in the regions that it has identified.
The DSWD has identified five pilot
MAKATI City has formed a team as part of the government’s contingency measures in preparation for a looming water crisis and the El Niño phenomenon.
Mayor Abigail Binay said the team she created, dubbed “El Niño and Southern Oscillation (ENSO) Task Force” will work to mitigate the effects of the weather phenomenon in the city.
She said Task Force ENSO comprises key departments in the city government and power and water utility providers who will analyze and assess the city’s readiness and response to the El Niño Southern Oscillation phenomenon and its effects.
Quezon City’s Bureau of Fire Protection in Quezon City, meanwhile is also bracing for El Niño which could trigger more fire incidents. The BFP data showed over 100 Filipinos die in home fires every year, while thousands more suffer from the loss of houses and valuables, and hundreds are injured by fire.
S/Supt. Aristotle Bañaga, the city’s fire marshal, said he has been closely coordinating with the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System, along with its two water concessionaires — the Maynilad Water Services Inc. and Manila Water Co. — to ensure that
sites coming from different geopolitical characteristics – one in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), what used to be a former conflict area; one in geographically isolated regions or provinces; one in urban poor settings; one will be calamity-stricken areas; and one will be a rural poor area.
The food stamp program or the “Walang Gutom 2027” aims to provide electronic benefit transfers that will be loaded with food credits amounting to P3,000 to purchase a select list of food commodities from DSWD-accredited local retailers.
“We now have the first draft of the design and we will spend the remaining months of May and June in the design stage... we have hired multiple consultants in the department to take a second look at what’s being designed,” Gatchalian said.
“We have to work with the economic team on trying to package the economic side of the financing side of it. Hopefully next year we get to do the run, the actual run, first quarter of next year,” he added.
The DSWD said it is targeting the bottom one million households from the Listahanan 3 belonging to the foodpoor criteria as defined by the PSA.
Asked about the funding, Gatchalian said the Asian Development Program would provide at approximately $3 million for the pilot run of the project.
Vince LopezTYPHOON PREPARATIONS. Workers use a backhoe and a dredging machine to deepen the level of the Marikina River in Marikina City in preparation for the rainy season and incoming typhoons. Manny
SPEAKER Ferdinand
Martin G. Ro-mualdez met with key lawmakers and officials of the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) on Monday afternoon to finalize their action plan and reforms meant to smash the cartel responsible for manipulating the supply and price of onions in the country.
At the same time, Romualdez warned that apart from the cartel and their cohorts, all other profiteers—including local traders and other players in the onion industry—who will continue to take advantage of the consumers will face certain prosecution.
“Those who are part of the solution we will help; those who are part of the problem, we will not tolerate. We will go after them and make the proper recommendation for prosecution,” Romualdez said.
GOODBYE. Children at the Gentle Hands Incorporated (GHI)
Romualdez earlier called for a congressional probe in December last year when prices of onion surged to over P700 a kilo to address the issue and protect the consumers.
Among those present in the meeting at the Speaker’s Office were Quezon Rep. Mark Enverga, chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food that spearheaded the probe on the onion issue, and Marikina Rep. Stella Luz Quimbo, whose expose unmasked key cartel personalities and allied firms.
House Committee on Appropriations
Chairman and Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co as well as Rizal Rep. Michael John Duavit, also took part in the meeting, as well as BPI officials led by Director Gerald Glenn Panganiban.
Romualdez said President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., who is also the concurrent Secretary of the Department of Agriculture (DA), has expressed appreciation for the
effort of the House to go against the onion cartel, particularly the expose of Quimbo.
“At least he knows that we are helping him as Secretary of Agriculture in stamping out these malpractices,” Romualdez said.
During the meeting, Panganiban committed to submit in writing to Romualdez within the week the policy reforms the BPI will adopt to prevent price manipulation of agricultural products, specifically onions. Among these reforms, which were discussed during the congressional probe on onion, include the following: opening up onion importation to prevent certain traders from cornering supply, frontloading aid to farmers to encourage production, the possibility of suspending importation during harvest season and review of existing tariff rates on imported onions to protect local farmers.
Secretary Rexlon “Rex”
Gatchalian on Tuesday issued a cease-anddesist order against Gentle Hands Incorporated (GHI), an orphanage based in Quezon City.
When asked by Malacañan reporters, Gatchalian confirmed the said order against the orphanage due to alleged violations.
“We are referring to the account of Gentle Hands Incorporated in Quezon City. Yes, we did issue a cease-and-desist order on the following grounds. Number one, as early as last Friday, I personally got complaints about the living situation inside the orphanage. There are 149 children inside, “ Gatchalian said The DSWD chief also said the place is “not ideal” with trash scattered and lying around ventilation was also an issue.
He said the orphanage may have exceeded
SENATOR Cynthia Villar said teaching police cadets farming skills is aligned with the mission of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) to provide comprehensive education and training to future policemen.
“Having farming skills truly resonates with the principles and purpose of law enforcement,” Villar, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food, said.
“Understanding farming and the unique challenges it presents will help you connect more deeply with these
communities. These connections can foster trust and cooperation, which are essential elements for you to carry out your police work more effectively,” she told cadets.
Villar was the Guest Speaker during the flag-raising ceremony of the PNPA in Silang, Cavite. She thanked PNPA Director Police Major General Eric Noble for inviting her to be part of this event.
“I have been informed that my strong advocacy for agriculture aligns with PNPA’s belief that policemen possessing farming skills can significantly enhance the police service within the com-
By Rey E. RequejoTHE US government has provided P240 million ($4.3 million) in grant assistance to help civil society organizations address climate challenges that are being faced by local communities across the Philippines.
In a statement, the US Embassy in the Philippines said at least 11 grants will be provided by the US government, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), to support the efforts for biodiversity conservation, wildlife protection, and the implementation of natural climate solutions. The recipient organizations are BaiAni Foundation, CBCP Caritas Filipinas
munities they serve,” she said.
its capacity. “It’s a privately run orphanage, it’s only rated for 80, but they have at 149 or 150 children.”
“And the worst part of it is we saw the fire exits and they were sealed or with grills and that was not acceptable to us. This is a fire trap,”
Gatchalian also said that there was an adult Caucasian male who went outside the said facility who was also roaming around without any detail or escort.
He questioned the presence of the “unsupervised” Caucasian in the facility and explained that the DSWD team had to be escorted by houseparents and social workers when the team entered the facility.
He also said the DSWD team “questioned” the staff, including the resident child psychologist. Gatchalian assured that the children who will be affected by the said closure will be taken to DSWD facilities.
The senator told the cadets that as future police officers, they are likely to be stationed in places where agriculture plays a critical role.
She also told future police officers that they can actively participate building food security and fostering a safer environment by sharing their farming knowledge, educating local communities, and empowering farmers.
“When communities have consistent access to nutritious food, they tend to be more stable, peaceful, and less inclined to engage in unlawful activities,” noted the senator.
WITH a unanimous vote, the Senate on Monday passed on the third and final reading the so-called “chalk allowance” measure authored and sponsored by Senator Ramon Revilla, Jr. Senate Bill No. (SBN) 1964 or the “Kabalikat ng Pagtuturo Act” institutionalizes and increases the teaching allowance granted to public school teachers.
Under SBN 1964, the teaching allowance shall be gradually increased from the current P5,000 to P7,500 for school year 2023-2024 and to P10,000 for school year 2024-2025 onwards. The additional benefit shall also not be subject to tax.
In his sponsorship, Revilla noted that public school teachers are forced to shell out money from their own pockets to procure supplies for the actual conduct of teaching since what is currently being granted to them is just P5,000 annually or just P24 a day.
Foundation, Coastal Conservation and Education Foundation, Diliman Science Research Foundation, Impl. Project Philippines, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, Mabuwaya Foundation, Surigao Economic Development and Microfinance Foundation, Tanggol Kalikasan, University of Santo Tomas Research and Endowment Foundation, and Xavier Agricultural Extension Services Foundation. US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson joined the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Gerry Roxas Foundation in the announcement of the grants on Monday, May 22.
“With the passage of ‘Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act’, we are giving our dear teachers an assurance that they will always have the Senate as their ally in advocating, pushing, and fighting for their welfare,” Revilla said.
“The current cash allowance already includes a P500 allocation for medical examination. If we deduct that from the purchase of teaching materials and equipment, it will drop to P22 pesos only per day. A box of chalk costs P68, a ream of bond paper costs P120, not including the internet load,” Revilla, chair of the Senate Committee on Civil Service, Government Reorganization and Professional Regulation, said. Macon Ramos-Araneta
USAID extends $4.3m in grants to several PH civil society organizations
ORAL history passed on by family historians suggests my ascendants fought against domination of European colonizers as early as the 17th century, nearly 100 years after some of these eastern islands had started making the sign of the cross.
Most popular of these ascendants was Teresa Magbanua, who earned the moniker “Joan of Arc” of the Visayas.
Most popular of these ascendants was Teresa Magbanua, who earned the moniker ‘Joan of Arc’ of the Visayas
St. Joan of Arc—byname the Maid of Orléans, French Sainte Jeanne d’Arc or La Pucelle d’Orléans, (born c. 1412—died May 30, 1431, has been revered as a martyr, and viewed as an obedient daughter of the Roman Catholic Church, an early feminist, and a symbol of freedom and independence.
After the French Revolution, she became a national symbol of France.
In the Visayas, ‘Nay Ysa, as she was endearingly addressed, was trained as an educator; but she chose to join her brothers and other kin in armed struggle, rather than enjoy the comforts of classroom teaching.
‘Nay Ysa, was deemed an expert in shooting while riding on horseback.
She was reluctantly given the command of Bolo Batallion, when she was able to persuade the Commanding General of the revolutionary forces in Panay Island, who was also her blood relative, that she could fight and lead the fighting forces.
‘Nay Ysa’s battle plan was unconventional.
She conceived the “agaw armas” tactic by visiting the enemy’s barracks in the middle of the night, to lure the soldiers to imbibe intoxicating drinks.
When the enemies had a drink too many, she signaled her troops hiding
and waiting in the nearby undergrowth to grab their firearms.
‘Nay was a formidable threat to the colonial government.
Because clan members were involved in overthrowing the colonial government, the latter persecuted the members of Magbanua Clan.
To survive, clan members went into quick evacuation. They dispersed –“naglayas kay gin pintasan.”
Some clan members were able to escape to nearby towns of Pototan.
Some went to Antique, some to Capiz.
Others migrated to Negros.
My direct ascendant, however, found refuge in Romblon, in Southern Tablas island.
At the time, a military decree was issued that in every settlement, residents must have a uniform first letter of their family names.
The letter assigned in Sibuyan was R; in Romblon proper letter M; in central Tablas Island was letter F.
The letter, however, assigned in Southern Tablas was “G”—there was letter G in the family name, Magbanua.
To comply with the decree, what my direct ancestor did was to drop the first two letters, MA, and transposed the remaining vowels. Hence a new surname was born: Gabuna.
I am a fifth generation Gabuna.
The month of April, the same dates as the town fiesta, the Gabunas held a grand reunion.
Relations who settled in Mindoro, Batangas, Aklan, and those who sailed out or flew out to foreign lands returned for that legendary homecoming.
Every time I met a younger face, my instinct was to raise the query, “Who is the Lolo of your father?”
Embarrassing it might be, but that was the only way I could trace our blood line.
Tears, laughter, and hugs were shared —until the next grand reunion.
(BG resided in North America for 30 years, seven of which were spent in the Arctic, a line of latitude about 66.5° north of the Equator. He and his wife are the fi rst Filipino couple to build a “nipa hut” in the North Pole. He worked as Consultant on Organizational Change & Management. He is at present engaged “Kawayanan ng Bayan” movement, planting giant bamboos nationwide to help address climate change).
ATHENS, Greece—A crushing victory in Greece’s Sunday elections by the conservative New Democracy party of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will nevertheless lead to a new ballot in a month, as the winner fell short of a majority.
Here are five takeaways from the vote in the eastern Mediterranean country of 10.5 million people:
Huge win comes up empty New Democracy on Sunday scored its best result since 2007 at 40.79 percent, beating the leftist Syriza party of former premier Alexis Tsipras by over 20 points —the widest margin between the two leading parties in a Greek election since 1974.
But under a proportional representation electoral system introduced by Tsipras, New Democracy won 146 seats, five short of a majority in the 300-deputy parliament.
Mitsotakis himself on Sunday indicated he would decline a mandate to form a coalition government, and said parties should “speed up” procedures for a new ballot, expected for June 25 or July 2.
The new election will be governed by different rules granting the winner a seat bonus in parliament.
Left penalised Tsipras lost his fourth straight election to Mitsotakis after a campaign accusing the ruling party of “profiteering, inequality, nepotism, indifference, arrogance, injustice”.
Though the former premier who led the 2015 bailout negotiations that nearly crashed Greece out of the euro remains in charge of his party, the next election is do-or-die for his political future.
Another casualty Sunday was Tsipras’ former maverick finance minister Yanis Varoufakis, whose anti-austerity
WE SUPPORT the call of Senator Robinhood Padilla for a Senate investigation into the eight-hour fire that razed the Manila Central Post Office Sunday night and left an initial damage estimate of P300 million.
“The Manila Central Post Offi ce is a tangible representation of the nation’s culture and history, and its damage is a blow to the country’s cultural heritage,” Padilla said in Senate Resolution 627 fi led Monday. He added: “It is of public interest to provide policies that will prevent or mitigate the effect of fi re and other hazards to protect and preserve our national cultural heritage.”
In his resolution, Padilla said the fi re that destroyed the 97-year-old structure, declared an important cultural property in 2018, “underscores the vulnerability of
The Post Office building was known as the grandest building of its time and is currently known as one of the dominating landmarks in Metro Manila
our national cultural heritage to fi re and other hazards and highlights the urgent need to revisit and assess the effectiveness of existing preservation and protection measures.
The Manila Central Post Office Building is an iconic neo-classical building designed in 1926 by American architects Ralph Doane and Tomas Mapua, and Filipino architect Juan Marcos de Guzman Arellano.
The Post Office building was known as the grandest building of its time and is currently known as one of the dominating landmarks in Metro Manila.
It was destroyed during World War II in 1945 but was rebuilt after the war in 1946, according to the Philippine Postal Corp.
This building is the center of the Philippine postal services and the headquarters of the former Bureau of Posts, later renamed “Postal Service Office.”
Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda, who chairs the Senate culture and the arts panel, also called on the authorities to investigate the cause of the fire to prevent this from happening again.
“It is indeed a tragic and heartbreaking incident… We must protect our historical sites such as this significant architectural heritage,” she said.
In a tweet, Senate finance committee chairman Sonny Angara said he was told by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri to work with the Department of Budget and Management to look for funds to help restore the Manila Central Postal Office.
“SP (Juan Miguel) Zubiri messaged that we have to work [with] the [B]udget [Department] towards finding funds to help restore the Post [O]ffice (which had a fire),” Angara said.
Earlier, Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna said they will restore the MCPO with the help of the national government.
A SURVEY conducted by the Social Weather Stations in the fourth quarter of last year yielded a surprising result: 89 percent of the respondents said they are satisfi ed with the way democracy works in the country.
This figure is said to be 11 percent higher than the 78 percent in April 2021 and exceeded the previous record of 86 percent in September 2016.
But the survey group clarified that public satisfaction with the way democracy works in this country is closely related to the results of national elections.
circumstances, while 15 percent said that it personally “does not matter whether we have a democratic or a nondemocratic regime.”
This is what’s disturbing, since this demonstrates a clear lack of understanding of what democracy really means.
expression, and of the press.
MeRA25 party failed to garner enough support to make it to parliament. Abstention fears unfounded
As the Sunday ballot was not expected to be decisive, many feared mass abstention. These concerns seemed vindicated when the first turnout was reported at just 31.5 percent of the electorate.
But in the end, nearly 61 percent of Greeks turned up to vote, higher than in 2019.
Greece is
Forgiving voters
Greece was swept by nationwide protests after 57 people died in a collision between two trains in February, the country’s worst rail disaster.
Rumored plans to hold the election in April were scrapped, the transport minister resigned, and Mitsotakis was forced to apologize for the poor state of the railway network.
The government was also under fire over a wire-tapping scandal implicating the state intelligence agency, which is overseen by Mitsotakis’ own office.
The head of the intelligence agency, and a nephew of Mitsotakis who was a top office aide, both resigned over the scandal.
But talk of retribution against the ruling party failed to materializse at
The SWS noted that “satisfaction with the way democracy works had peaks of 70 percent in September 1992; 70 percent in July 1998; 69 percent in September 2010; 86 percent in September 2016, and the current record of 89 percent in December 2022, related to the successful presidential elections of 1992, 1998, 2010, 2016, and 2022, respectively.”
The Ramos administration posted a high satisfaction rating of 70 percent at the start of its term in 1992 but dipped to a low of 46 percent in November 1994 before climbing up to 64 percent in December 1997.
The Estrada administration started with a satisfaction rating of 70 percent in July 1998 but this decreased to 47 percent in October 1999 and even lower to 42 percent in September 2000.
The Arroyo administration started with a 34 percent satisfaction rating in September 2001; this dropped to 28 percent in 2003 but increased to 47 percent in March 2010.
The Noynoy Aquino administration began with a high of 69 percent in September 2010 but ended with 80 percent in 2016.
The Duterte administration started with 86 percent in September 2016 but this dropped to 78 percent in April 2021.
The SWS said that based on their survey, two-thirds or 60 percent of Filipinos would choose democracy over other forms of government.
That’s reassuring, as this shows that the majority of Filipinos still adhere to democratic principles.
But 26 percent also said they would prefer authoritarianism under certain
the ballot, where conservative voters re-elected Mitsotakis’ transport minister too.
Youth turn right
For months, it was widely expected that nearly 440,000 young voters taking
Corruption has become systemic and institutionalized, with both elective and appointed officials helping themselves to the public till and getting away with it
For where we sit, democracy means much more than having your favorite candidate win in an election, which is what the SWS survey result implies.
If your candidate wins, there’s democracy, if not, there’s no democracy, since in all likelihood, your candidate was cheated, or spent an inordinate and unconscionably huge sum of money for the campaign to win at all costs.
Genuinely free and fair elections where all candidates have an equal chance of winning public office, of course, is only one component of a real democracy.
Our Constitution contains an explicit provision prohibiting political dynasties, but left it to the lawmakers to decide to make themselves redundant.
The result, as we all know by now, is the proliferation of political dynasties in all regions from north to south and east to west, thus denying opportunities for access to opportunities for public service by those without money to burn in expensive electoral exercises.
There are others, perhaps equally important under a democratic system.
There should be full respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
These include freedom of speech, of
part in elections for the first time—some as young as 16—would side with the leftist party of Tsipras, 48.
Greece is struggling with high youth unemployment, and even those lucky enough to have a job barely earn enough
There should be no law abridging the right of the people to peaceably assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances.
There should be an efficient, effective and equitable justice system. We do have a double standard of justice: one for the rich, another for the poor.
The rich and powerful can always get away with grand-scale theft of public funds or with murder most foul by hiring the best lawyers to extricate them from legal troubles.
The poor and the uneducated languish in prison because they have no money to defend them in a court of law.
There should be people’s participation in governance, with those in public office regularly consulting their constituents on issues that will affect them and their communities.
There should be a bottom-to-top approach to governance, rather than the top public officials making decisions by themselves without asking for suggestions or proposals from their constituents.
And there should be zero-tolerance for corruption.
We know where corruption exists in our government.
The problem is that the corruption has become systemic and institutionalized, with both elective and appointed officials helping themselves to the public till and getting away with it.
Wasn’t it Abraham Lincoln who defined the essence of democracy as “government of the people, by the people, for the people”?
But was it Al Smith, the American politician who served four terms as Governor of New York and was the Democratic Party’s candidate for president in 1928, who said: “It’s not the voting that’s democracy, it’s the counting”?
(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)
to cover their rent.
But in the end, a third of the 1724 age bracket apparently sided with Mitsotakis’ conservatives, Sunday’s exit poll found. AFP
struggling with high youth unemployment, and even those lucky enough to have a job barely earn enough to cover their rent
DRONES struck Russia's border region of Belgorod where security operations pressed into a second day after a cross-border raid blamed on fighters from Ukraine, authorities said Tuesday.
The region, which borders Ukraine, has been repeatedly shelled in attacks that have killed dozens of people since Moscow launched its offensive last year.
Several drones struck houses and a government building overnight but did not result in casualties or deaths, Vyacheslav Gladkov, Belgorod governor, wrote on Telegram.
On Monday, Russia said its troops were battling a "sabotage" group that entered from Ukraine and introduced an "anti-terror regime" in Belgorod, a first since the start of Moscow's campaign in Ukraine in February 2022. Gladkov said on Tuesday the "defense ministry and law enforcement are continuing to clear the area."
He previously said eight people had been injured, adding that authorities were helping people leave the scene of the fighting. He added on Tuesday that it was too soon for residents who fled to return to their homes and said that authorities would give the allclear when it was safe.
Members of the anti-Kremlin Freedom of Russia Legion have claimed responsibility for the incursion into Belgorod, but Kyiv has denied any involvement.
In a video released by a Telegram channel claiming to represent the group, a camouflaged spokesman, surrounded by
EAST Timor independence hero Xanana Gusmao's party won the parliamentary election but is short of an outright majority, official results showed Tuesday.
The opposition National Congress for Timorese Reconstruction (CNRT) led with 41.6 percent of the votes, while its main rival and incumbent coalition leader Fretilin got 25.7 percent, according to the electoral commission.
The result of Sunday's election paves the way for a return to power for the 76-year-old Gusmao, East Timor's first president, if he can form a coalition. If there is no outright winner, the constitution gives the party with the most votes the opportunity to form a coalition.
Voters cast their ballots for 65 seats in parliament, hoping to end years of deadlock in Asia's youngest country.
CNRT secured 31 of those seats, and will have to work with one or more other parties.
armed men in fatigues, said: "Russia will be free!" – a slogan frequently used by Russian opposition activists. "We want our children to grow up in peace and be free," the spokesman added, with the channel claiming that two settlements including Graivoron had been attacked.
Ukrainian presidential advisor Mikhaylo Podolyak suggested that Russian "guerrilla groups" could be responsible.
"The only driving political force in a totalitarian country of tightened screws is always an armed guerrilla movement," he said on Monday. AFP
SEVEN people, including four children, were killed when a roof over a school sports field collapsed in a storm in Thailand, officials said Tuesday.
The children, aged between six and 13, were playing in the open-sided building at a school in Phichit province on Monday, watched by a number of spectators.
At about 6:30pm (1130 GMT) the storm struck, according to local media, and heavy rain and high winds caused the roof to collapse suddenly.
The fatally injured adults were two parents and a janitor, the provincial office of public relations told AFP, while 18 people were injured.
A video shared on the Facebook page of the local public relations office showed a twisted mess of metal, with poles and corrugated iron lying crumpled on the ground.
The storm also damaged several houses in Sam Ngam district, police told AFP.
"All the houses have been damaged by the storm but this arena just completely collapsed," local mayor Kannika Intarakul told the ThaiPBS broadcaster.
Schools in Thailand commonly have a sports pitch with an open-sided roof to protect children from the fierce tropical sun while they play.
The six-year-old boy was rushed to hospital but died of his injuries.
Those injured remained in two hospitals, where they were receiving treatment. None were reported to be in a serious condition.
The incident comes as Thailand enters monsoon season, with heavy rain forecast for much of the country in the coming days.
"In a blink of an eye, I heard a sound just like in a war zone and in a span of five seconds, the storm reached me," another witness told ThaiPBS.
Neighbouring Myanmar was recently battered by Cyclone Mocha, which swept across Rakhine state, killing 145 people.
Safety and maintenance standards in Thailand are sometimes lax, and building collapses are not unknown. AFP
This is to inform the public that Mr. Jobart Benedito has been appointed as a new Director of Cirrus Global Inc. effective 06 April 2023. (MS-MAY 17/24/31, 2023)
It won the presidential election last year, with Gusmao's ally and Nobel Peace laureate Jose Ramos-Horta taking the post.
But Fretilin, formally the Revolutionary Front for an Independent East Timor, led the incumbent coalition government going into the Sunday election.
Fretilin fought for an end to Indonesia's occupation of East Timor, and Gusmao led its military wing. AFP
A MAN accused of throwing an explosive at Japan's prime minister last month will undergo a three-month psychiatric examination, a regional court said on Tuesday.
Ryuji Kimura, 24, was arrested in April for allegedly hurling a pipe bomblike explosive toward Fumio Kishida as the premier campaigned in the western city of Wakayama.
Kishida escaped unscathed, but the incident horrified a nation still haunted
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
Notice is hereby given that a Deed of Extrajudicial Partition of the Estates of the late Israel L. Racelis and Bernard D. Racelis, who both died intestate, was executed by their heirs namely, Florita D. Racelis, widow, and the remaining children of Israel and Florita who are also Bernard’s siblings, Noel D. Racelis, Erica RacelisGascon, Aliza D. Racelis and Glen D. Racelis, as per Doc. No. 170 ; Page No.: 36 ; Book No.: V ; Series of 2023 before Notary Public Atty. Chiles Megan M. Areño.
by the assassination of Japan's former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was gunned down last year while giving a speech.
Prosecutors are authorized to detain Kimura until early September for an assessment of his mental state at the time of the attack, a court official, who did not give her name, told AFP. They are expected to decide whether to indict Kimura based on the evaluation.
The suspect has reportedly remained
tight-lipped about his motive for the failed attack on Kishida.
Local media reported that Kimura previously filed a lawsuit challenging requirements that political candidates be at least 30 years of age and have a war chest of at least three million yen ($21,600) to run for national office.
An Osaka High Court spokesman told AFP last month that Kimura had sued the government and his claim was rejected by a lower court. AFP
US Secret Service officers detained the driver of a U-Haul box truck in Washington on Monday night after the vehicle crashed into a barrier near the White House, the agency said in a statement.
"There were no injuries to any Secret Service or White House personnel and the cause and manner of the crash remain under investigation," the statement said.
Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi later said in a tweet that a "preliminary investigation reveals the driver may have intentionally struck the security barriers at Lafayette Square," adding that charges would be filed over the incident.
A local CBS affiliate, WUSA9, reported that what appeared to be a Nazi flag had been found during a search of the U-Haul, though no other information on the flag was provided.
The crash took place just before 10 pm (0200 GMT) on the northern edge of the square, a few hundred yards from the White House in an area home to several upmarket hotels.
A local Fox affiliate reported that some hotel guests said they had been told to evacuate after the crash.
A journalist with the station posted a video from the scene showing a robot searching the cargo area of the truck. AFP
and Julito
G. RadaHouse Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Tuesday welcomed Fitch Ratings’ upgrade of its credit outlook for the Philippines’ long-term debt to “stable,” calling the decision of the international credit rating agency “an unequivocal vote of confidence” in the socioeconomic agenda of the Marcos administration.
“This is clearly an acknowledgment of our efforts to push through Congress the measures and reforms needed to pursue the eight-point socioeconomic agenda of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., meant to create more jobs, improve
social services and steer the economy irreversibly back to the strong growth path it is on before the pandemic,” said Romualdez.
He reiterated the firm commitment of the House of Representatives to pass
the priority bills of the Marcos administration necessary to institute needed reforms meant to accelerate the momentum of the country’s post-pandemic economic recovery.
“The House of Representatives will persevere in doing our part to make sure the promise of a strong economy, more and better-paying jobs, food and energy security and better education and opportunities for our youth are realized within the Marcos administration,” he said.
Fitch announced on Monday that it revised from “negative” to “stable” the outlook on the Philippines’ long-term foreign-currency issuer default rating and affirmed the country’s rating at in-
vestment grade ‘BBB’.
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Felipe Medalla said the BSP’s exceptional and timely actions, which included aggressive monetary tightening and the previous temporary financing to the government during the pandemic, had not resulted in adverse side effects on the stability of the financial system.
“With the Philippine banking sector being liquid and well-capitalized, the central bank stands ready to use all the tools at its disposal to preserve price stability,” Medalla said.
The Monetary Board, the policymaking body of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, maintained last week the
benchmark interest rates at 6.25 percent, calling it a “prudent pause” that took into account the recent downward trajectory of inflation since it peaked at 8.7 percent in January 2023.
Inflation settled at 8.6 percent in February, 7.6 percent in March and 6.6 percent in April.
Fitch acknowledged the credibility of the central bank’s inflation-targeting framework and flexible exchange rate regime. “Last year’s interventions to mitigate peso volatility have been reversed. Monetary financing to the government during the pandemic was more limited and was reversed more quickly than in some peers,” Fitch said.
registered profits in Q1
ALLHOME Corp. and AllDay Marts Inc., two of the Villar Group’s listed companies, returned to profitability in the first quarter of the year.
AllHome said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Tuesday it booked a first-quarter net income of P212 million, a turnaround from the P27.9-million net loss it reported in the same period last year despite lower revenues.
A FORMER Energy undersecretary said Monday he implemented a directive from the Executive Department and the Department of Energy to sell 5 percent of the government’s stake in Philippine National Oil Co.-Exploration Corp. in 2005.
Eduardo Mañalac, also former president of PNOC, said he was compelled to go along with the directive.
Mañalac made the statement at an online forum organized by the National Youth Movement for the West Philippine Sea in response to a question on whether he had a hand in the sale of the government’s 5-percent stake in PNOC-EC to a South Korean firm.
“The instruction to sell the 50 percent, meaning the five percent, of the 10 percent [government stake in PNOC-EC] came from the government, came from the DOF, support-
ed by the Executive, by the President,” he said.
“And the reason given to sell the PNOC-EC’s share at that time was that, if you remember, PNOC paid a hundred plus million for the 10-percent [stake]. It was loaned. So, what the government was saying was we have to pay that. We have to raise the money,” Mañalac said.
“So, they gave me instructions to sell half of it. Of course, I was against it, but you have to follow, you argue against it, but at the end
of the day, you tried to obey the instructions as best as you can,” he said. He said the sale did not push through when the National Economic Development Authority opposed it.
Mañalac also responded to businessman Enrique Razon Jr.’s statement he brokered the Joint Marine Seismic Undertaking agreement with Vietnam and China, which was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.
developer SM Prime Holdings Inc.
raised P30 billion from the issuance of fixed-rate bonds to fund expansion plans.
SMPH said in a stock exchange filing the Series S, T and U fixed-rate bonds were listed on the Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. Tuesday.
SMPH said that amid strong demand from investors, it exercised a portion of the overallotment option which enabled it to raise P30 billion in proceeds.
The bonds were issued as fifth tranche from SMPH’s P100-billion bond-shelf registration program approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2022.
“We are very grateful for the trust and support of the investing public, as well as to our bank partners, the Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp., Philippine Depository & Trust Corp., and PDS Group,” SMPH chief finance officer John Nai Peng Ong said.
“The success of this latest fixed rate bonds will give SM Prime further capabilities to pursue its expansion programs of creating more opportunities for more Filipinos to build a better nation,” he said. SMPH earmarked P80 billion in 2023 capital expenditures to support the expansion of its mall and residential businesses.
SMPH’s fixed rate bonds Series S, T and U were offered on May 8 to 12, with interest rates of 6.2069 percent, 6.2151 percent and 6.3275 percent, respectively.
The bonds were rated PRS Aaa by Philippine Rating Services Corp.
First-quarter revenues fell 9.6 percent to P2.9 billion from P3.23 billion on slowdown of renovation and home improvement spending in favor of travel. “Our Q12023 performance still reflects that challenges from our FY 2022: weakened sales attributable to a clear shift in consumer spending. Travel, leisure and entertainment continue to take precedence as they were suppressed during the heavy quarantine periods and long periods of pandemic circumstances,” said AllHome president and chief executive Benjamin Therese Serrano. AllDay, which operates a supermarket chain, said it booked a first-quarter net income of P88.6 million, a reversal from the P75.6million net loss it recorded a year ago. Store revenues climbed 6.5 percent to P2.44 billion from P2.29 billion. Jenniffer B. Austria GCash rolls out face recognition security
GCASH said it rolled out its “DoubleSafe” face recognition security feature to 100 percent of fully-verified users to protect their accounts from fraudsters.
“The face recognition feature is built within the app and doesn’t require mobile phones with high-end features. We made sure all our verified user base will have access to this security feature as we notice the prevalence of phishing attempts outside the app,” said GCash chief technology and operations officer Pebbles Sy. “DoubleSafe will further protect our customer’s accounts and hard-earned money,” she said.
“Double Safe” uses an industry-first face recognition technology to ensure that the person accessing an account is the same as the one who registered in GCash.
This means, even if users inadvertently give out their mobile personal identification number and one-time pin, their account still cannot be accessed from a new device without scanning the owner’s face. The feature also looks for the user’s liveness to ensure photos can’t be used to bypass the security control.
Darwin G. Amojelar Romualdez lauds SEC for supporting E. Visayas HOUSE Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez lauded the Securities and Exchange Commission for opening a new extension office in Tacloban City which he said could push it into becoming a “thriving hub of business activity” in the country.
“The establishment of this new [SEC] office reaffirms our commitment to fostering an environment that promotes fair business practices and protects the interests of both investors and the public,” Romualdez said in a speech delivered by Atty. Dennis Aran Abril during the inauguration of the SEC Tacloban EO.
“With this new office, we are equipping our city with the necessary tools to attract investment, encourage entrepreneurship, and promote economic growth,” Romualdez said.
The SEC, led by chairperson Emilio Aquino and commissioners Javey Paul Francisco, Kelvin Lester Lee, Karlo Bello and McJill Bryant Fernandez, formally inaugurated the SEC Tacloban EO on May 11. Located on the second floor of the National Economic and Development Authority Regional Office VIII building, Government Center in Barangay Baras, Palo, Leyte, the SEC Tacloban EO marks the commission’s 10th extension office in the country and the fourth in the Visayas.
HARMIE Constantino hopes to ride on all the positive vibes in pursuit of a second straight championship back to the Villamor Golf Club, headlining the ICTSI Philippine Masters field she has bested in the last Ladies Philippine Golf Tour stop at Luisita.
Constantino repelled top amateur Rianne Malixi in the rain to snatch the inaugural Match Play Invitational title in a playoff at the relatively flat but challenging military layout last year. She also repulsed Daniella Uy, also via sudden death, to snare the Luisita crown two weeks ago.
The same tight, exciting finish is expected this week although Constantino is coming into the 54-hole, P1 million championship oozing with confidence.
She expects to get going early against a slumping reigning LPGT Order of Merit winner Chihiro Ikeda and a surging Pamela Mariano at 8:20 a.m. on the first hole, just behind the other featured threesome featuring Uy, Korean Kim Seoyun and the equallypromising Florence Bisera.
While Constantino is so focused on sustaining her momentum and re-asserting her mastery of the field, Kim and Uy both set out for redemption after the duo stumbled with late-round meltdowns in the Caliraya Springs and Luisita legs of the Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.-organized circuit.
The chance to become the first ladies PH Masters champion also serves as added motivation to the field beefed by Rev Alcantara, Monica Mandario, Sarah Ababa, Gretchen Villacencio, Marvi Monsalve and Apple Fudolin.
Also due for a big finish is Mafy Singson, who seeks to duplicate Malixi’s four-stroke victory over Ikeda in the Iloilo leg of the ICTSI-backed circuit last March along with Koreans Nam Eunhua and Lee Jiwon.
Completing the cast are Lovelynn Guioguio, Kristine Fleetwood, Majorie Pulumbarit, Lucy Landicho, Sheryl Villasencio, Eva Miñoza and Korean Yang Juyoung.
OVER 400 athletes are expected to be sent to the coming Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.
Philippine Olympic Committee president Rep. Abraham Tolentino said this after reviewing the list of athletes, who could possibly be sent to the quadrennial meet, slated from September 23 to October 8 later this year.
This number includes 143 athletes, who have won 58 gold medals and 85 silvers in the recent 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
“This is the number, after we checked the gold medallists and silver medallists of the SEA Games, and those athletes with Asian rankings and world rankings, and were not in the SEA Games,” said Tolentino.
The inclusion of Tokyo Olympic veterans Hidilyn Diaz in weightlifting and boxer Eumir Marcial, along with tennis star Alex Eala, athletes in softball, baseball, rugby, squash and archery, will help Team Philippines have a formidable delegation.
Tolentino talked about the PH’s coming Asian Games campaign, while giving an assessment of the country’s performance in the Cambodia meet during Tuesday’s weekly Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.
The POC chief noted that the Philippines’ 58-85-117 gold-silver-bronze medal has not only surpassed its performance in last year’s Hanoi SEA Games, which yielded a 52-70-105 output, it also almost matched the PH’s performance in the 1987 Jakarta SEA Games, which had a medal production of 59-78-69.
Tolentino believed that the Philippines could have gotten an additional
gold medal in the final match of the 65kg women’s fighting event in vovinam.
But this possibility ended after the fight between Bui Thi Thao Ngan of Vietnam and Hergie Bacyadan of the Philippines went through three periods and one extra time and finished in a 6-all draw. It was resolved via lottery
WANGS Basketball @27 Strikers–Letran eliminated AMA Online in the 2023 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup Tuesday with a 71-57 victory at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
Pao Javillonar posted 15 points in 16 minutes and the Knights limited the Titans to seven points in the fourth quarter to pull away, en route to their second straight win.
Letran, the reigning three-time NCAA champion, improved to 2-2 and gained a piece of the fourth spot with Perpetual Help University System Delta entering the homestretch of the seven-team tourney.
Games Thursday (Ynares Sports Arena)
2 p.m. – CEU vs PSP
4 p.m. – EcoOil-La Salle vs AMA Online
AMA slowly picked up its rhythm and outscored the Knights, 30-18, to go up at 37-33 at the break.
The Titans stayed hot in the third quarter and took its biggest lead at 42-35.
But Knights battled back and regained a 48-44 lead entering the payoff period.
that favored the Vietnamese. “Isang gold ang nawala sa vovinam, dahil sa draw na ginawa to determine the winner of the gold,” added Tolentino. Incentives from the government are expected to spice up the Philippines’ celebration of its performance in Cambodia, according to Tolentino.
Around P787,500 in cash incentives await gymnast Carlos Yulo, who emerged as the the Philippines’ bestperforming athlete with his haul of two golds and two silvers.
Yulo struck golds in the men’s individual all-around and parallel bars and bagged a pair of silvers in rings and team all-around.
The two golds yielded Yulo a total of P600,000, in accordance with Republic Act 10699, which states that individual gold medalists in the SEA Games will pocket P300,000, while silver and bronze medalists will get P150,000 and P60,000, respectively.
THE 20th President’s Cup of the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club, honoring its current President, Lawrence N. Tan, was a huge success. The participation of the 288 members and 180 sponsors and guests reflect the spirit of camaraderie in a day of fun-filled tournament at the East and West courses.
POOL CHAMPS. Billiards’ enthusiast, councilor Alfred Vargas awards the Quezon City 10-Ball Open trophies to champion Je ‘The Bull’ De Luna and runner-up Emmanuel Delgado at the Sharks Arena in Tomas Morato, QC. The actor/sportsman/ public servant said he will continue supporting all tournaments of the Sharks Billiards League because he believes that the Philippines can once again be the world’s pool capital through a comprehensive grassroots programs and its inclusion to collegiate sports in the near future.
“Slow start kami and no excuses for us. Credits to the players for stepping up sa second half. Nag-rely lang kami sa defense na gusto namin maging identity moving forward,” said coach Rensy Bajar.
Letran opened an early 15-7 lead but
Kevin Santos scored 14-points nad grabbed 10-rebounds while Kobe Monje and Neil Guariano chipped in eight each for Letran.
Earl Ceniza and Baclig had 20 and 14 points, respectively, for the Titans, who stayed listless at 0-5.
LIVING up to its status as a big friend of Philippine sports, gaming platform OKBet and the PBA Legends Foundation Inc. successfully held the 2nd PBA Legends Charity Golf Tournament last May 9, 2023 at the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club in Carmona, Cavite.
The 18-hole event was attended by a bevy of basketball personalities, supporters, and other public figures, such as PBA Legends Foundation Inc. Chairman Atoy Co, President Alvin Patrimonio, Corporate Secretary Ed Cordero, Treasurer Jojo Lastimosa, and Board Members Ramon Fernandez and Kenneth Duremdes as they spent time to make the event a resounding success.
“[The] main purpose of this tournament is to help yung mga kapwa ko dating manlalaro ng PBA na nangangailangan ng tulong-pinansyal sa kanilang medical needs. We formed this foundation, para kami-kami talaga ang magtulungan sa mga pangangailan ng bawat isa,” said Co.
All proceeds raised from the tournament as well as other future projects will fund various benefit projects of the PBA Legends Foundation.
One of the tournament sponsors, Edmund Yee, emerged as the Overall Low Gross Champion, garnering a net 70.
“I’m happy with the success of the tournament, bonus na lang na nanalo ako. I’m one of the sponsors, so
lumapit sila sa akin, with no hesitation nag-go
ako kasi it’s for the benefits of the ex-PBAs,” said Yee.
During the fellowship and awarding ceremony, OKBet expressed how proud the platform is to have partnered with the foundation, and reiterated its commitment in promoting the local sports industry and giving back to the Filipino community.
“This tournament is not just an exciting sports event, but also a noble cause that provides an opportunity for individuals to contribute to the welfare of those who have dedicated their lives to the world of Filipino basketball,” said an OKBet representative.
Aside from OKBet, San Miguel Corporation, PLDT-SMART, Metro Pacific Tollways Group, NLEX, SM Prime, Gloria Maris Restaurant, Ford EDSA, Boysen Paints, Megacem, Inc., Don Lee Builder, Inc., Mighty David, Arlo Aluminum Co. Inc., Gardiola Group of Companies, Hyco, Excel Coil Coating Corp, Igan ng Pilipinas Foundation, Inc., also supported the event.
Others were Ever Bilena Cosmetics, Powerball Marketing and Logistics Corp, SOGO, Corbridge Group Phils, Nutritech, Go for Gold, Mr. Manny Sy and the Hon. Vice Governor of Isabela, Faustino “Bojie” Dy.
The smooth staging of the President’s Cup was through the hard work of Club President, Lawrence N. Tan, the Board of Directors and the dedication of the Fellowship Committee.
They were able to lure a total of 130 sponsors, including the event presentors, San Miguel Corp, BMW, Boysen and Yakult, made this year the biggest tournament as it gave away 240 items highlighted by the golf cart, BMW motorcycle and 1M in cash tax free in the grand raffle.
In addition, each participant received J. Lindeberg shirt and other stuff as giveaway plus over flowing tee house foodies and sumptuous dishes at the awarding from three different kind of concessionaires.
David Cheu was the overall champion while Tootsie de Jesus won the low gross title after a one-over-par 73. Titlists per Class were Arvin Uy (A), Nicholas Di (B), Marc Tio (C), Martin Dy Buncio (Srs A), Celso Vivas (Srs B), Juan Miguel Garcia (Guest I), Alex Magno (Guest 2), Roberto Santos (Guest 3), Cheska Imperial (Ladies A) and Jay Crisologo (Ladies 1).
Winners of the fun holes were Philip Te and Celso Vivas for most accurate drive; Danny Ibarra, Marvin Caparros, Timothy Tan and Andrea Dy Buncio for nearest to the pin; and Jeff Duran and Raphael Lee for second most exercised golfer.
PRACTICE venues for the world’s best basketball players, like Nikola Jokic and Giannis Antetokounmpo, along with other stars of the National Basketball Association comprising Team USA, are being readied inside the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.
Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann said this with less than 100 days left before the start of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.
Bachmann, who is also the chairman of the interagency task force in charge of the country’s World Cup hosting, said renovation of the facilities for these players and national athletes, are continuing.
“There’s a lot of construction going on,” said Bachmann.
The Philippines will play host to USA and Serbia, along with cagers from Lithuania and Greece, which have top-caliber
SOME 200 entries are expected to join the second edition of the World Slasher Cup 2023, considered as one of the most prestigious cockfighting event in the world.
Organizing committee chairman Dong Lamoste said they are welcoming their participation in the two-weekend event, slated from May 22 to 30 at the Araneta Coliseum.
“We are going to see the best breeders around,” said Lamoste following Saturday’s presser at the Gloria Maris Restaurant inside the Gateway Mall.
Just like last year, the top breeders from Guagua, Pampanga will mix it up with other participants and top cockfighting groups, which are mostly based in Central Luzon.
Among the top five entries who were named champions early this year are also around, namely Cali Dreamers Lagitik, Jonah, SFVM Sagupaan King Cutter, Mulawin 1, and Thunderbird II. All five ended their campaigns with 8-1 win-loss slates, with anyone of them capable of reaching the finals again.
Last year, at least three aggressive bloodlines of fighting cocks took centerstage as top entries
D’ Shipper/ BBB and Guagua Cockpit 1 made it to the finale of the 2022 World Slasher Cup 2 9-cock derby.
The two-day elimination round was slated May 22 to 23, while the semis will be from May 24 to 25.
Following a three-day break, action resumes with the pre-finals on May 29 and the finals on May 30.
Breeders have been using combined lineage of the Boston and Gray Sweaters, along with the Kelso lineage since cockfighting returned last year.
“We are expecting the biggest and most respected names in the field to join us for the second edition,” said Uniprom Inc. Chief Operating Officer Irineo Jose. Peter Atencio
NBA players in their roster.
The four are considered as among the top-ranked teams in the world and they will set foot on Philippines shores in time for the Group Phase.
Greece and Serbia will be among the teams to watch out for, with NBA stars like Jokic of Serbia and Antetokounmpo of Greece, expected to be seen at the vicinity of the Vito Cruz facilities. Bachmann bared that the badminton hall will also be used by organizers in monitoring the progress of events taking place.
The world meet will run from August 25 to September 10, with Angola, Dominican Republic, Italy, South Sudan, China, Puerto Rico, Jordan, New Zealand, Egypt, Mexico, and Montenegro also set to have games slated at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City and the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
PARIS—Athletes have joined the clamour of criticism at the high cost of tickets for the 2024 Paris Olympics, decried as undermining organizers’ promises of a Games accessible to all.
Phase two of sales got underway on May 11, with nearly 1.5 million individual tickets available, after over three million were sold as multi-event packs during phase one.
Sales have been swift with two thirds of the latest batch snapped up on the first day, organizers said.
Tickets for the men’s judo heavyweight final, in which France’s triple Olympic gold medallist Teddy Riner is expected to compete, sold out in two hours.
“Frankly it started very strong, almost too much so. It’s proof of the huge enthusiasm,” the organising committee said.
But just as during phase one, there were
vocal protests, particularly on social media, that the exorbitant prices conflicted with the “Games for all” promised by Paris 2024 chief Tony Estanguet.
“We expected the criticism, we were warned that the sales periods were a difficult time. But we underestimated the scale,” conceded Estanguet, a former three-time Olympic canoeing champion.
“With four million registered in the draw for 1.5 million tickets on sale, we knew that some people would be disappointed.”
Of the promised one million seats at 24 euros ($26), the lowest price for next year’s Olympics, nearly 150,000 went up for sale in phase two.
But as these tickets were the first
to go, potential buyers quickly found themselves facing much higher prices.
Three days after the launch of the second phase, sports fans were offered tickets at 690 euros and even 980 euros for athletics semi-finals, and as high as 2,700 euros for the opening ceremony.
- ‘Financial elite’ -
“The prices of the Olympic Games tickets... What a big joke,” tweeted one disappointed buyer @BenjiTjumper, while @KimKy_Love wrote: “Excuse me Paris-2024 but the opening ceremony at 2 times the minimum wage (!!), it’s a joke?”
Athletes were also unhappy with the prices.
Belgian Nafissatou Thiam, a twotime Olympic heptathlon champion, told Belgian media DH: “I’m not even sure that my family will be able to come to see me, it’s so expensive.”
French judoka Amandine Buchard, a world bronze medallist, slammed organisers on Twitter: “Olympic Games
accessible to all, you said... In fact, you have to take out a bank loan so that families and loved ones can have the chance to come and see us… Well at least if by then there are still tickets.”
“How can we put such high prices for our sport?” French runner Jimmy Gressier wrote on Instagram.
French Sports Minster Amelie Oudea-Castera defended the pricing policy, telling parliament on May 16 ticket prices were lower than at previous Olympics.
She did admit though that: “The accessible tickets, at 24 euros, exist but they go too quickly.”
For sports policy expert David Roizen, in the money-spinning world of modern sports, a Games for all “doesn’t exist”.
“The Champions League final, the Olympics, are events reserved for a financial elite,” Roizen told AFP.
“It is a mistake to have raised the prospect of a Games for all.” AFP
THE ICTSI Villamor Philippine Masters reels off today (Wednesday, May 24) with a promise of a wild start and a wilder finish on a deceiving course that puts premium on accuracy and precision off the mound more than length.
While the Villamor Golf Club layout does not feature the terrains, ravines or dog-leg fairways that normally make championship courses, it does offer a tough test given its tight fairways crammed with trees, thick roughs and unpredictable surface as the elite men of the Philippine Golf Tour brace for a fierce duel of ball control, iron play and putting.
“I did some good practice last week and I hope to show a better game than in Luisita,” said Guido van der Valk, the back-to-back The Country Club Invitational champion who posted a rare missed cut stint in the last PGT leg in Tarlac.
“I love the Villamor layout and can’t wait to play. As for the target, the goal is to be in contention to
win during the final round,” added the Manila-based Dutchman who yielded to Jerson Balasabas in sudden death when the last PH Masters was held in 2018.
Rupert Zaragosa, the runaway winner in Iloilo last March but who also struggled at Luisita with a 34th place finish, can’t wait to launch his drive for a second PGT win, saying: “I think Villamor suits my game. My game plan is to focus more on my tee shots and hopefully my putting will click this week.”
While the absence of some of the Tour big guns, who are competing overseas, practically opens up the title chase in the P2.5 million championship put up by ICTSI, van der Valk said he doesn’t mind who is in or who isn’t, stressing: “If my game is good, I can win no matter who is in the field. As for if it boosts my title chances, there’s still a lot of good players left in the field so I will have to play my best.”
Truly, the make-up of the field remains as highly-charged as ever
with Jhonnel Ababa, Michael Bibat, Reymon Jaraula, Marvin Dumandan, Ferdie Aunzo, Fidel Concepcion, Joenard Rates, Keanu Jahns and Balasabas all geared up for battle along with Jay Bayron, who underscored his readiness to end a long title spell by winning the pro-am tournament last Monday.
“Malaki ang chance dahil wala ang ibang pros, pero kailangan sa Villamor maganda ang driving at patient ka dapat,” said Ababa, who last won at Pradera Verde and Cebu in 2018.
Frankie Miñoza and Robert Pactolerin, who had figured in a number of PH Masters clashes during their prime, provide the vintage flavor to the blue-ribbon event although the former has proved he still got what it takes with strong performances in the first five legs of this year’s circuit organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc., including the TCC Invitational where he tied for eighth.
DUE to insistent public demand, Vermosa Estate’s fun and healthy Green Run will be back on June 25, this time packing more treats and surprises for both serious and casual runners. This year’s theme is “We’re Back And Greener Than Ever”.
The Run celebrates the green outdoors while promoting healthy and active living. This year, it becomes even more fun as dog lovers can now run with their four-legged, furry babies and friends, giving both pets and their owners a great way to bond, get fit and have a meaningful experience.
Alongside the 1KM Dog Run, Vermosa Green Run 2023 is also bannered by four other running events for runners of varying fitness levels. Serious athletes, athletes in training, weekend athletes, fun runners, fitness enthusiasts, family and friends can choose which one among the 21K, 10K, 5K, 3K or the 1K Dog Run they would like to conquer at Vermosa. Celebrity runners, dog owners and athletes are expected to take part in this year’s Green Run.
Following its success in 2022, Green Run is organized and brought to life by Pinoy Fitness, a running, fitness and multisport event orga-
nizer. Proceeds of the Run will go to Haribon Foundation’s Adopt-a-Seedling Program, to build a greener tomorrow. Moreover, runners
and guests can help protect the environment by recycling their plastic bottles at the Sun Life ReCycle PH machine on-site. Every bottle donated can earn participants points which can then be exchanged for prizes.
Green Run’s official non-life insurance partner, FPG Insurance, will also provide free group personal accident insurance to runners who register for the race.
“One of the major enticements to run The Green Run is the breathtaking scenery and the abundant foliage throughout the 750-hectare property. Running in a green, wide open environment is extra motivating and beneficial to physical and mental health,” says Monch Henares, award-winning journalist and motoring/travel blogger.
“Open spaces, wide pedestrian walkways, bicycle and jogging lanes that wind through Vernosa make the running both memorable and inspiring,” says Arabelle Jimenez, lifestyle blogger, travel writer and swimming coach who regularly runs in Vermosa for fitness and fun.
MOTHERHOOD has been a transformative journey for actress Elisse Joson, shaping her in multiple profound ways. It has not only deepened her understanding of life but has also emboldened her to embrace more daring roles in her acting career.
“Becoming a mother has brought about a newfound sense
ATLANTA-BASED singer-songwriter
Teddy Swims has revealed his highly anticipated 2023 Asia tour, featuring a special performance at Samsung Hall, SM Aura Premier in Manila, Philippines, on August 3.
The tour will kick off in the UK on July 6 and include stops in Ireland, Singapore, Japan, and Australia, before culminating in New Zealand on August 31.
This announcement follows a remarkable year for Teddy, fueled by the success of his recent EPs, Sleep Is Exhausting and Tough Love
The vocal powerhouse joined forces with Armin van Buuren and Matoma to release the uplifting dance anthem “Easy to Love” earlier this year.
In 2022, he captivated audiences with his rendition of “Don’t Stop Believin’” on America’s Got Talent alongside season 14 winner Kodi Lee and Journey guitarist Neal Schon. Additionally, he showcased his powerful vocals on collaborations such as Illenium’s “All That Really Matters,” Meghan Trainor’s
“Bad For Me,” and MK & Burns’
“Better.”
Presented by AEG Presents Asia and Insignia Presents, Teddy Swims Live in Manila tickets will be available for P2,650 for Floor Standing and P1,910 for Balcony (excluding ticketing charges). General on-sale will begin on May 27 at 10:00 a.m. via ww.InsigniaPresents.com or at SM Tickets outlets nationwide.
Having dedicated his life to music from a young age, Teddy Swims, also known as Jaten Dimsdale, knocked on the door of stardom in 2019. With covers performed from a humble bedroom studio, he rapidly gained widespread recognition on the internet, accumulating hundreds of millions of views and amassing a devoted following of over 4 million.
Teddy Swims has crafted a captivating signature style that fuses soulful melodies, intimate R&B, rock energy, and hip-hop swagger, all elevated by his powerful vocals. Garnering praise from esteemed publications such as American Songwriter, Billboard, Flaunt, and Idolator, as well as leaving icons like Shania Twain in awe, Teddy was heralded as a “2021 Artist To Watch” by Rolling Stone
Transitioning from covering his musical idols on YouTube to performing his own original music on national television, his journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Atlanta-based singer-songwriter Teddy Swims
She said motherhood has instilled in her a sense of resilience and a willingness to take on challenges, both on and off the screen. With this newfound confidence, Elisse is now open to exploring more daring and complex characters in her acting endeavors. She recognizes that motherhood has equipped her with a deeper emotional well and a broader range of experiences to draw upon. “I’m also fortunate to have a partner who is very supportive of my craft and the kind of path that I’ve been taking here in showbiz,” Elisse, who will soon star in PiraPirasong Paraiso, added.
She acknowledges the importance of having McCoy De Leon as a supportive partner. She says he understands and encourages her career aspirations. Having a partner who embraces and celebrates her growth as an artist and as a mother has been instrumental in her journey.
“It’s like we’re on the same page. We have a shared vision,” she went on.
As Elisse ventures into more daring roles, she brings with her a unique perspective and a depth of emotions that
only motherhood can provide. Her portrayal of complex characters showcases her growth as an artist and her ability to captivate audiences with her authenticity and depth such as her performance in Dirty Linen Elisse’s journey into motherhood has brought about unexpected surprises, one of which is the product endorsement that allows her to encourage young families to be more practical.
The actress and working mom has been announced as the newest brand ambassador for Miutiso, a fast-rising provider of quality household essentials. Known for their commitment to offering reliable and affordable products.
Elisse, who embraces her role as a young family woman, expressed her excitement about partnering with the brand. She highlighted the importance of having a well-organized and beautiful home while fulfilling her duties as a wife and mother.
In an exciting milestone, Miutiso also announced its strategic partnership with Xentro Mall, further expanding its reach and enhancing the shopping experiences of its customers. Xentro Mall’s commitment to exceptional service aligns with Miutiso’s mission of making life beautiful. Together, they aim to offer a
curated selection of household essentials conveniently accessible in various Xentro Mall locations.
Gladys Tallud, Miutiso’s spokesperson and head of Business Development, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the synergy that will redefine how people approach their daily routines.
The collaboration with Xentro Malls is expected to fuel Miutiso’s business expansion and reach new markets, creating a positive impact on customers’ lives.
Miutiso, a Chinese variety store chain, entered the Philippine market in December 2021 and has rapidly established itself as a go-to destination for household and consumer products. Their commitment to quality, affordability, and making life beautiful resonates with customers seeking reliable and convenient solutions for their daily needs.
Richard Gutierrez (right) and Jake Cuenca in an intense scene in ‘Iron Heart’
THE digital platform has proven to be a popular destination for viewers to catch their favorite programs. Case in point, three ABS-CBN’s primetime shows have amassed more than 642 million total views on Kapamilya Online Live from February to April 2023. In April alone, FPJ’s Batang Quiapo The Iron Heart, and Dirty Linen earned over 194 million combined views on Kapamilya Online Live on ABS-CBN Entertainment’s Facebook page, which currently has 36 million followers, and on its YouTube channel with 43.7 million subscribers. As more viewers continue to tune in
to their favorite Kapamilya shows, ABSCBN announced that the latest episodes of currently airing shows such as FPJ’s Batang Quiapo and The Iron Heart are now available to stream on-demand for an extended period of up to 14 days after they are shown on Kapamilya Online Live. Follow Tanggol’s (Coco Martin) action-packed adventures in FPJ’s Batang Quiapo as he begins a new chapter in his life and vows to transform into a better man alongside Mokang (Lovi Poe). Join Apollo (Richard Gutierrez) in his mission to destroy Priam’s (Albert Martinez) plans that could endanger the
people in the action series The Iron Heart Apart from the two primetime shows, viewers can also enjoy up to 14 days of binge-worthy entertainment for shows such as Magandang Buhay, It’s Showtime, I Can See Your Voice The Voice Kids ASAP Natin ‘To, as well as well-loved series Be Careful with My Heart Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin, and A Soldier’s Heart
On YouTube, Kapamilya Online Live streams continuously throughout the day from morning until nighttime. On Facebook, meanwhile, viewers can catch their favorite shows on regular timeslots with scheduled breaks between timeblocks.
THE hit Filipino musical ended its fifth week run with a lovely surprise when audience members Axel Zapanta and Joi Tuazon shared a romantic proposal on stage, surrounded by the cast and crew of the musical. Shortly after the curtain call on Sunday, May 21, lead cast member Gab
Pangilinan called the couple to go on stage for winning the photo opportunity raffle staged by the entire cast.
Before the photo-taking began, Zapanta went down on one knee as he asked Tuazon’s hand in marriage. “I want to know if gusto mo bang sumama?” He asked, drawing loud cheers from the cast and audience members.
“I promise to love you sa tanghali sa gabi at umaga,” he added in reference to the
songs from the musical. The proposal ended with a sweet yes from Tuazon while the cast sang “Ligaya” to celebrate the romantic moment.
The young couple has been together for nine years when Zapanta decided to take their relationship to the next level. He wanted to make it extra special by fulfilling the ultimate dream of his fiancée, who is a huge fan of the musical, to meet its cast. After reaching out to Full House Theater Company for help, he pulled off the surprise proposal during the most unforgettable show of their lives.
Surprise someone special and book seats in advance for the newly announced shows in June. Tickets are now available at Newport World Resorts Box
Office, TicketWorld, and SM
Tickets outlets: P3,776 (SVIP), 3,236 (VIP), P2,696 (Gold), P1,942 (Silver), and P1,079 (Bronze).
For inquiries, contact the Newport World Resorts National Sales Team via JahyR Dela Cruz at 0917 818 9847, Raf Sangco at 0917 807 9387, and Carl Cuaresma at 0917 829 2173.
Escape the ordinary at Newport World Resorts, you know you want to. For more information on Ang Huling
El Bimbo The Musical and its show schedule, visit www. newportworldresorts.com and follow @newportworldresorts and @fullhousetheater on Facebook and Instagram, @ nwresorts on Twitter.
The cast of ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo’ surrounding couple Axel Zapanta and Joi Tuazon during their proposal
DESPITE his initial decision to step away from performing, Jon Santos was lured back by the persuasive powers of Jenny Jamora, who returns to the director’s chair for both the English and Filipino versions of Every Brilliant Thing
Recognizing Santos’ immense talent and the unique touch he could bring to the production, the director made a compelling case for his involvement in Every Brilliant Thing. The director’s belief in Santos’ ability to breathe life into the character and captivate audiences ultimately convinced him to reconsider his retirement and take on this new endeavor.
“It was Jenny Jamora who convinced me to accept this project. When I said I was retiring, a lot of things were happening back then, especially in my personal life, but here I am, doing the things close to my heart,” Santos told Manila Standard Life alluding to the announcement he made last year.
Santos joins The Sandbox Collective’s Sandbox Fest 2023 to bring a Filipinotranslated performance of Duncan Macmillan and Johnny Donahoe’s Every Brilliant Thing to the local stage.
“In my experience, the takeaways in shows are much more intense when the setup is an actor-to-live audience. You look at the eye of an actor and the message is shot right through your heart. It’s exciting and overwhelming, but also heartwarming to realize that an actor can help change perspectives or spark conversations about
The cast of Sandbox Fest 2023 twin bill ‘Lungs’ and ‘Every Brilliant Thing’ mental health,” Santos went on. Santos has made his mark on the Philippine theater scene, recently playing roles in Ang Huling El Bimbo and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Santos is best known for writing and producing comedy shows, and for impersonating pop culture and political personalities such as Vilma Santos and the late Senator Miriam DefensorSantiago
More recently, Santos made waves in the Philippine drag scene after being one of the alternating judges on the hit reality show Drag Race Philippines, a local franchise of RuPaul’s Drag Race
Every Brilliant Thing is a one-act, interactive play that follows the story of a young child growing up with a parent suffering from mental illness. The show has been staged in multiple countries and has also been translated into different languages such as Mandarin, Arabic, Spanish, and Hebrew.
Tasked with Every Brilliant Thing’s Filipino translation is award-winning playwright, translator, actor, and director Guelan Luarca
With its Filipino version ready to take the stage, Every Brilliant Thing expands its reach and potential by giving Filipino au-
THERE might have been some delays due to logistics and permits from the local government unit, but the rehabilitation of the CCP Main Building has been underway.
Since the wear and tear of the iconic building has accumulated through the decades, it might take a while before we could watch another performance inside its theaters and visit its galleries for exhibitions.
But as they say, the show must go on. The Cultural Center of the Philippines always finds ways to bring worldclass shows to Filipino audiences and continues its mandate to promote the best Philippine talents while nurturing the broadest audiences.
While the center still has the Tanghalang Ignacio B. Gimenez (CCP Blackbox Theater) as performance venue, the leading art institution in the country The CCP has been looking for ways to connect with audiences and presents its artistic programming by partnering with exhibition spaces and performing arts venues in and outside of Metro Manila and maximizing its existing spaces in the CCP Complex.
It has partnered with the Metropolitan Theater in Manila for orchestra concerts by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra and other performances; ballet shows
and theater performances at the Samsung Theater in Circuit Makati, Theater At Solaire; film festival at PICC, among others. There are also traveling exhibitions in various locations such as Yuchengco Museum scheduled throughout the year.
But while collaboration with different venues is the game plan for the next two or three years, there is nothing like having your own home, as they say.
This might be one of the reasons CCP decided to transform the third floor of the TIG into a gallery and exhibition space, dubbed Bulwagang Roberto Chabet (CCP TIG Gallery), to continue its visual arts programs and projects.
Deemed a fitting move to create an exhibition space, the new gallery hopes to complement the philosophy of the CCP Blackbox Theater. The blackbox theater has been designed to cater to new works that are out-of-the-box; the same principle that the Bulwagang Roberto Chabet upholds. In time, the new gallery will host contemporary and experimental exhibitions, as well as innovative collaborations.
“As its mandate, the CCP creates a balance between being in touch with Philippine art history and making space for contemporary methods of artmaking. We hope to accomplish and fortify that responsibility through Bulwagang Roberto Chabet,” said CCP President Margie Moran-Floirendo
The new exhibition space aims to extend the CCP’s thrust of promoting artistic excellence and nurturing of art
making and appreciation while the Main Building undergoes rehabilitation.
The CCP plans to utilize Bulwagang Roberto Chabet as an artistic space for young artists with limited exposure as well as fresh and innovative ideas that artists and curators would like to explore through the CCP Visual Arts and Museum Division’s Exhibition Venue Grant program.
“We hope the new gallery will become a dynamic space to showcase works from the CCP 21AM collection, reframed and recontextualized to respond to the interests and concerns of a wider audience. The CCP has been encouraging explorations and innovations in artmaking and exhibitionmaking by providing not just space but also curatorial assistance,” said MoranFloirendo.
The new gallery is named after a Filipino conceptual artist recognized as one of the most influential Filipino artists in the post-war generation. Naming the exhibition space after Roberto Chabet honors the significant contributions of the late visual artist in the Philippine art community. It represents his recognition of the potential and energy young and emerging artists bring and contribute to the trajectory of local contemporary art.
Known for his diverse works that sought more inclusive methods of arts, Chabet was the first museum director of the CCP from 1967 to 1971. A Gawad CCP Para sa Sining Awards recipient, he was instrumental in acquiring some of the pieces included in the current CCP 21AM Collection, as well as in establishing the CCP Thirteen Artists Awards in 1970 as a curatorial project. The stage curtain of the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (CCP Little Theater) is based on the painting of Chabet, rendered on a tapestry made in Kyoto, Japan.
The CCP’s Bulwagang Roberto Chabet (TIG Gallery) officially opens to the public with Space/Place, an exhibition by the Association of Pinoyprintmakers, which runs until June 18.
Do check out the new gallery and its debut exhibit at the third floor of Tanghalang Ignacio B. Gimenez, located at the CCP Complex (fronting PICC).
diences the opportunity to discuss mental health in a safe space and through their native language.
What The Sandbox Collective hopes to achieve through this original translation is to continue to normalize the conversation on mental health and to encourage healthy discourse in the Philippines where depression and grief continue to be taboo topics among more traditional households. Joining Santos and reprising their roles in the solo-actor show are model, actress, and TV host Teresa Herrera and theater actress, multimedia host, and entrepreneur Kakki Teodoro. Both Herrera and Teodoro
received Gawad Buhay Award nominations for their previous Every Brilliant Thing runs, with Teodoro bagging the prize for Female Lead in 2020.
Every Brilliant Thing will run alongside Duncan Macmillan’s Lungs in a twinbill (two shows, one ticket) experience in this season’s Sandbox Fest 2023. Sandbox Fest 2023 will run at the Zobel de Ayala Recital Hall, 2/F Maybank Performing Arts Theater, 9th Avenue cor. 26th Street, BGC, Taguig City from June 17 to July 15. Tickets are now available through Ticketworld or through The Sandbox Collective at +63917 152 5560.
EVER since I was a child, my grandmother had harbored a dream for me to become a pianist. But it wasn’t until my third year of high school that I mustered the courage to try learning it.
Surprisingly, despite music not running through my veins, I got to learn the basics of it – knowing the parts of the music sheet, reading the notes, and playing the right keys in order to play a song. I even got my own electronic keyboard. However, the learning ended there. I wasn’t able to touch the instrument ever since the pandemic happened.
As I was writing this article, I was actually listening to the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) performing the “Bathaluman Concert Overture” by Alfredo Buenaventura
his creations. During the intermission, I had the privilege of having him sign my PPO anniversary catalog and ask him questions that piqued my curiosity. How did it feel to watch his masterpiece performed by a group he had worked with?
“Well, it brings back memories. But I hope that it’s interpreted even better. There are many nuances and expressions. When I conduct it, I can do better because it’s my own work. The composition becomes more exquisite when well interpreted...[however] it has been playing okay,” he reiterated. His frankness was inspiring. He offered critiques, but one could understand why—he missed working with them. He missed wielding his baton in front of his orchestra. “Well, this orchestra, of course, practically all the members are my friends. Most of them were my former students, who are now senior citizens. I congratulate the PPO and I
Don’t blame or judge me for not paying attention, but memories of playing the piano flooded my mind. I recalled the younger me, excited for piano class and receiving my own keyboard. The inspiring performance by Aidan Ezra Baracol, accompanied by Rodel Colmenar and the PPO celebrating 50 years in the music industry, ignited my passion for music once again.
The PPO, the country’s leading orchestra, has been a prominent presence in the music industry for decades. As the resident orchestra of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, it has nurtured and showcased the talents of numerous Filipino musicians across generations.
To commemorate their anniversary, CCP invited Manila Standard to witness the ensemble’s concert, celebrating five decades of extraordinary orchestral music. It was a Friday night, and this was my second time experiencing a live orchestra performance. Previously, I had enjoyed watching the Manila Orchestra, but now, witnessing the PPO in action, I can promise you that there was never a dull moment. The night was filled with awe-inspiring moments as each orchestra member showcased their musical prowess.
Sitting just a block away from Alfredo Buenaventura, a composer, conductor, and teacher, I was captivated by the beauty of
hope they continue to improve. I miss them. I used to conduct them, and I miss all these things. But my wish is for a bright future, for beautiful performances, and for a harmonious bond,” Buenaventura concluded.
As the second part of the concert commenced, we were greeted with “Salut! Demeure e Chaste et Pure!” from Faust by Charles Gounod, performed by tenor Arthur Espiritu, accompanied by the orchestra. He also enchanted us with Augusto Espino’s “Kundiman ng Langit.” With each song, Espiritu effortlessly hit every note, leaving the audience on their feet with smiles on their faces.
The concert reached its climax with George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue,” featuring Raul Sunico on the piano and conducted by Hermingildo Ranera. They left us yearning for more, and they didn’t disappoint as they treated us to an additional performance.
Allow me to conclude by expressing my astonishment when we sang our national anthem, accompanied by the PPO. It was an honor to sing it with such a renowned orchestra. For some, it may seem insignificant, merely the “Lupang Hinirang” required to start an event officially. But for me, it represents ‘Lupang Hinirang’—a song that embodies nationalism, patriotism, and the commitment we have made to our country.
