Manila Standard - 2023 May 27 - Saturday

Kuwait suspends all new visas for Pinoys

KUWAIT has suspended all new visas for Philippine nationals indefinitely, the interior ministry confirmed Friday, as the row between the oil-rich Gulf state and Manila over worker protections and employer rights escalated. This developed as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. rejected imposing a total deployment ban of Filipino workers to the Middle Eastern state, saying the government will continue to

negotiate with Kuwait to improve the current stalemate.

The Kuwaiti interior ministry earlier said the Philippines had violated a bilateral labor agreement they signed in 2018 following a previous row over worker protections in the wake of deaths of several Filipino domestic workers.

Listed violations include housing

Superstorm to linger for 5 days

Cagayan, Batanes brace for ‘Betty,’ typhoon in PAR until Wednesday

By Rio N. Araja, Vince Lopez, Julito G. Rada, Charles Dantes, Joel E. Zurbano, Alena Mae Flores, and Darwin G. Amojelar

THE country’s northernmost provinces are bracing for the world’s strongest storm this year as Super Typhoon Mawar—named “Betty”locally —entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility early Saturday morning and is forecast to linger in this zone for five days or until Wednesday next week.

Although it is not projected to make landfall on the Philippines, at its closest point the storm could lash Cagayan and Batanes with

PH gets G7, Quad support letter on SCS tack

THE recent 2023 Group of Seven (G7) and Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) summits expressed support for the Philippines’ position to adhere to the international rules-based order in the South China Sea and to maintain peace and stability in the region.

The expression of support was relayed to Communications Secretary

Cheloy Garafil by Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko through a letter sent on May 20.

Garafil said the letter contains Koshikawa’s report on the outcome documents of the recent summits hosted by Japan.

This developed as China on Friday defended its decision to deploy its own

buoys in Philippine waters, saying they are doing it “in accordance with law.”

In a statement, the Chinese Embassy in Manila said it sees nothing wrong when Beijing deployed its largest beacon vessels to the West Philippine Sea, several days after the Philippines did the first move.

STAYING IN STEP. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. walks with Philippine Navy officers and some Cabinet members as they attend its 125th

PBBM: Submarine plan still on table as Philippine Navy marks 125th year

By Vince Lopez

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Friday that his plan to acquire submarines for the Philippine Navy (PN) is still on the table, with offers from different countries that could involve domestic assembly and construction of naval assets.

“There is a plan. But it’s still being developed because the commitment to operate a submarine is not a small commitment. It is a very large

commitment because of the training that is involved, the equipment that is involved, and the operational requirements that are involved are quite significant,” President Marcos said during a media interview following his attendance at the 125th anniversary celebration of the Navy in Naval Base Jose V. Andrada on Roxas Blvd.

“So, it is still part of our plan. But right now, we are in the middle of developing mostly our anti-submarine

Party-listers stress support for Speaker

By Maricel V. Cruz

exceptional vision and unwavering dedication to achieving balance and fairness in the work we do. Under his

MINISTERS from the United States, Japan, the Philippines, and 11 other IndoPacific nations will agree at their meeting Saturday in Detroit to bolster supply chains for chips, medicine, and other critical items in the event of an emergency under a US-led economic initiative, sources familiar with the matter said Friday.

The enhanced supply chain resiliency will be the first agreement among 14 member countries of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, Kyodo News reported. IPEF represents 40 percent of global gross domestic product, and could help counter China's economic influence in the region.

Supplies of food, energy and key industrial products, such as semiconductors, were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia's war in Ukraine.

The IPEF partners, also including Australia, Indonesia, India, South Korea and

5th

suspect in Degamo slay recants, ‘life at risk’

ANOTHER suspect in the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo has recanted his testimony, a defense lawyer confirmed on Friday.

Just like four other fellow dismissed soldiers who have taken back their testimonies, Joven Javier denied knowledge of the March 4 slay and said he was merely forced to admit participation.

“We have also informed the court that his life is in danger as there is a plot to have him killed,” defense counsel Danny

Army nabs suspect in Adiong ambush

AUTHORITIES have arrested the principal suspect in the February ambush on the convoy of Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr., the Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) said Friday.

In a statement, the military said the suspect, identified as Lomala Baratumo, 42, was arrested at a checkpoint in Sitio Morales, Barangay Centrala in Surallah town on Thursday. Colonel Andre Santos, commander

SM-DSWD ‘SIBOL’ PACT.

Officials of SM Supermalls join DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian (second from left) as they cut the ribbon to launch their new Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) titled “Sibol” on Friday at the SM Mall of Asia.

US, IPEF group agree to boost supply chains

anniversary celebration and commissioning of patrol gun boats at the PN headquarters on Roxas Boulevard on Friday. Rolando Mailo

PARTY-LIST SUPPORT. Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez (right) receives a framed Manifesto of Support from the officers of the Party-list Coalition Foundation Inc. led by Ako Bicol Party-List Rep. Elizaldy Co, as they express their unwavering support to the Speaker's leadership. PCF Photo

READY FOR 'BETTY'. A fishermen in Parañaque City lashes his boat to a bamboo raft to prepare for the coming of Super Typhoon Mawar or Betty, which showed a fearsome eye in photographs by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center on Friday. The state weather bureau's forecast track has the storm lingering in the Philippine Area of Responsibility until Wednesday (inset). Norman Cruz

Gasoline seen up P1.20/l next week

By Alena Mae S. Flores

DOMESTIC pump prices may go up next week by as much as P1.20 per liter for gasoline to reflect the movement of prices in the world market week-on-week.

Industry sources said that based on the four-day trading of the Mean of Platts Singapore, there will be a mixed movement in the prices of petroleum products next week.

Superstorm...

From A1 gale-force winds of up to 220 kilometers per hour and torrential rains, state weather bureau forecasters said Friday.

Betty/Mawar would still be in the PAR at typhoon strength by Wednesday morning, the track and intensity forecast of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administrationadded, even as it moves westward over the Philippine Sea.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 3 would be hoisted overBatanes as Betty is forecast to be within be 250 km of the province and the Babuyan Islands by Sunday morning while it barrels its way toward Taiwan and possibly Japan.

After a rapid intensification, Mawar became the most powerful storm of2023 globally, according to the Joint Typhoon Warning Centre (JTWC).

Its intensification in waters east of the Philippines came after abrief weakening as it passed by Guam on Wednesday, lashing the US island with heavy rains and winds that uprooted trees and blew awayroofs and cars.

According to the Guam Power Authority, nearly all the island’s 52,000homes and businesses experienced power outages, with only 1,000 retaining electricity. There were no reports of loss of life, butextensive damage was reported, alongside localized flooding, fallen debris, and downed power lines.

Its strong to typhoon-force winds extend outwards up to 550 km from its eye or center, PAGASA said.

In its 10 p.m. thunderstorm advisory Friday, PAGASA said Metro Manila, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija and Tarlac would expe-

PH...

From A1

National Security Adviser Eduardo

Año countered that the placement of navigational buoys in the disputed waters off the West Philippine Sea (WPS), saying it is “an act of a sovereign nation and is pursuant to the country’s obligations under international law.”

“As a maritime nation, it is imperative that the Philippines prioritize the maintenance of navigational safety to ensure the

PBBM:...

From A1 capabilities. So, those were our priorities and then hopefully when the time comes and the conditions are agreeable then we might be able to acquire those submarines.”

“If they are built here and we can actually build submarines here andprovide those submarines to other countries then that’s another source of jobs, and of income and increased capability for our Navy.”

Last year, the Department of National Defense (DND) said that procurement of submarines for the PN was not a priority, saying that it was focusing on the implementation of modernization contracts signed by the previous administration.

A defense official said that although submarines were on their wish list for Horizon 3, the department is prioritizing the implementationof existing contracts, given the limited resources available to the government.

At the same event Friday, Marcos reiterated his commitment to ensuring the welfare of the members of the Armed

Army...

From A1

of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade, said Baratumo has a standing warrant of arrest for murder issued by the 12th Judicial Region, Branch 8, Marawi City.

The military and police have been working together since February in tracking the suspect, according to Santos.

Baratumo is now under the custody of the South Cotabato ProvincialPolice Office and will be turned over to Lanao del Sur Provincial Police Office for proper disposition, the military said.

On February 17, gunmen ambushed the convoy of Adiong in Kalilangan, Bukidnon, and killed four of his companions.

The fatalities were identified as Police Staff Sergeant Mohammad Jurai Mipanga Adiong, 40; Police Corporal Johanie Lawi Sumandar, 39; PoliceCorporal Jalil Ampuan Cosain, 40, and a driver identi-

The sources said gasoline prices may go up by P1.10 to P1.20 per liter and diesel by P0.10 per liter, while kerosene may go down by P0.10 to P0.30 per liter. They said the price movement of die-

rience moderate to heavy rain showers with lighting and strong winds owing to Betty’s influence on the southwest monsoon or “habagat.”

These conditions were already being experienced in Zambales, Bataan, and Pampanga provinces last night, the state weather bureau added.

Fishermen in Cagayan no longer went out to sea as a precaution on Friday as the province was expected to raise its red alert last night. Ten towns had been classified as areas of concern by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).

In Batanes, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office head MarvinPama said the town of Ivana has activated its evacuation center to accommodate evacuees from high-risk communities.

PAGASA weather specialist Ana Clauren said the hoisting of TCWS may begin today in anticipation of severe winds.

Strong to storm-force conditions may be experienced over extreme Northern Luzon, while strong to gale-force conditions are possible in the northern and eastern portions of the mainland of Northern Luzon,she said.

Clauren said Betty may enhance the southwest monsoon that could trigger rains over the western portion of Central and Southern Luzon and the Visayas beginning Sunday or Monday.

She urged the public to coordinate precautionary measures with the local government because the moderate to heavy rains may trigger flash floods or landslides.

Mawar is the strongest storm to enter the country this year, but is weaker than Yolanda, which killed more than 6,000 people in 2013.

While Yolanda packed maximum sustained winds of 235 kilometers perhour,

protection of our waters and the people who rely on them," Año said in a statement.

He stressed that neglecting navigational safety can lead to catastrophic incidents resulting in accidents, loss of life, and damage to the environment.

"We wish to stress that safe and efficient navigation is critical tointernational trade and commerce, and any disruption to this can have far-reaching consequences."

"Besides, our maritime borders are vulnerable to threats such as piracy, smuggling, and terrorism. Thus, main-

Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and their families.

“And so, to the brave men and women of our Navy: in fulfilling your duties and mandates, be agents and exemplars for our citizenry by working for unity and by championing respect for our Constitution and the rule of law,” President Marcos said in his speech at the Philippine Navy Headquarters in Manila.

“Rest assured that as your commander-in-chief, this administration will work tirelessly not only to improve the Armed Forces but also in looking for ways and means to improve your individual welfare and those of your families and loved ones as well,” he said.

The President paid tribute to the Navy as an institution and to the men and women behind it, both uniformed and civilian, for continuing the noble cause of defending the republic's sovereignty and keeping the peace.

Two PN vessels, Patrol Gunboat (PG) 903 (BRP Gener Tinangag) and PG 905 (Domingo Deluana), were commissioned Friday. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

fied only as Kobi. Adiong survived while two of his staff were hurt in the attack.

One of the suspects identified only as “Otin” was killed during pursuit operations conducted from February 17 to 19, police said.

Another prime suspect in the ambush, identified as Oscar “Tacmar" Capal Gandawali, was also killed in a police operation on May 3.

Police Regional Office 12 (Soccsksargen) Chief, Brig. Gen. Jimili Macaraeg, lauded the South Cotabato Police for the arrest in Surallahtown of one of the suspects in the Feb. 17 ambush of Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr.’s convoy.

"We commend the unwavering efforts and great synergy of all units,” Macaraeg said in a statement Friday.

Baratomo, alias Commander Lomala, of Barangay Bato-Bato, Maguing, Lanao del Sur, did not resist arrest when nabbed at a checkpoint in Surallah. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

sel and kerosene will depend on Friday's trading movement in the world oil market.

Department of Energy director for Oil Industry Management Bureau Rodela Romero said there are several factors that affected world oil prices this week.

Romero said this included the increase in the US oil demand forecast for the second half of the year and the coming Memorial Day weekend in the US.

She said the decline in the oil supplies coming from Canada and the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies in recent weeks also

Mawar is likely to move at a slower pace, with maximum sustained winds of 175 kph, said Jun Galang, PAGASA weather division chief.

Galang warned, however, that Mawar can still be dangerous.

“If a typhoon is fast, its impact on land is stronger. If it’s slower, it will bring more rain. Fast or slow, they’re both dangerous,” he said in Filipino.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said local government units (LGUs)should lead response efforts but assured them that the national government will be ready to assist in areas that will be affected by the super typhoon.

“We have already warned the LGUs to prepare in case of heavy rains and flooding. What we do is we leave it to the LGUs right now to make the call on what they will do,” Mr. Marcos said in an interview with reporters in Manila.

“What we’re saying is the national government is here to assist. We are in constant contact with the local governments, so we’ll see what the situation is in their place,” the President said.

Mr. Marcos said the government has been preparing for the onslaught of super typhoon Mawar, saying it had a different strategy since thetyphoon will also pull the southwest monsoon, which may cause heavy rain even in the Visayas and Mindanao.

“It’s a little different from the usual situation where the typhoon passes and that’s all we worry about,” he said.

“The typhoon is strong. It's pulling weather patterns, entering here in the Philippines. So that’s what we are looking out for,” he added.

President Marcos earlier said he had discussions with Defenseofficer-in-charge Carlito Galvez about positioning funds,

taining navigational safety is critical to safeguarding the nation against these threats," he added.

Citing Koshikawa’s letter, Garafil said the twin summits resulted in the issuance of “consequential decisions encompassing matters related to the Philippines.”

“The outcome document of the recently-concluded 2023 Group of Seven and Quadrilateral Security Dialogue summits in Japan strongly supported President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on his position to adhere to the international rules-based order and maintain peace and stability in

Kuwait...

From A1 workers in shelters, searching for runaways without involving state institutions, communicating with Kuwaiti citizens without permission from authorities, and pressuring Kuwaiti employers to add clauses to employment contracts.

Neither the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait nor Malacanan Palace had a comment as of press time.

Earlier, Mr. Marcos told the media after gracing the 125th anniversary celebration of the Philippine Navy: “I'm never very comfortable with banning like that, because it's like banning is saying that it's forever, it's not possible anymore."

“Sometimes, the ban is an overreaction. As long as we're just banned, it's not right,” he added.

The President said the administration will pursue negotiations with the Kuwaiti government, which suspended issuing work visas to Filipinos.

“The problem we have is that we are talking to the people of Kuwait, and they don't want to issue new visas. We

5th...

From A1 Villanueva said in an interview. He said they will be filing a habeas corpus suit to question Javier’s continued detention.

“Mr. Javier was qualified to be a state witness against others who are being pointed to as responsible for the Pamplona massacre. That is the reason why up to this time no case has been filed against Mr. Javier,” Villanueva said in an interview with news channel ANC.

Javier was a sergeant with the Philippine Army’s counterterrorism unit Light Reaction Regiment. He went absent without leave in 2018 and wasamong the first suspects brought from Negros Oriental to Manila for their safety.

influenced prices. "Drop in WTI [West Texas Intermediate] due to inflation concern but China's demand alleviates uncertainties, and Iraq's Kurdistan production continued to drop," Romero said.

On May 23, the oil companies implemented a per liter increase of P0.80for gasoline and P0.60 for diesel but cut the price of kerosene by P0.10 per liter. These resulted in a year-to-date net decrease for diesel at P5.05 perliter and kerosene at P6.40 per liter. Gasoline, on the other hand, has a net increase of P5 per liter.

food packs and response teams in areas that will directly be affected by Mawar.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, meanwhile, announced the availability of the P18.3 billion disaster relief fund to support the government’s rescue and relief operations.

The latest data showed that the government still has some P18.3 billion in its calamity fund, including the P1.5 billion carryover from last year’s budget, that can be used for various disaster relief operations until the end of 2023.

From January 2023 to date, calamity fund releases amounted to about P3.9 billion. “Our government is prepared,” Pangandaman said in a statement.

After the typhoon, if necessary, agencies may tap into the availableNational Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (NDRRMF) under the FY 2023 General Appropriations Act upon completion of damage assessment and recommendation by the National Disaster Risk Reductionand Management Council (NDRRMC) and following the approval of the President.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines said it has alerted all its search, rescue, and retrieval units in anticipation of Mawar’s arrival.

In a statement released on Friday, the AFP said that all unified commands and major services are placed on alert for humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) operations in areas expected to be hit by Mawar.

A total of 12,000 personnel including reservists are deployed as firstresponders.

Additional troops and assets will be committed when necessary. With Macon Ramos-Araneta (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

the region,” she said.

Koshikawa informed Garafil that during the G7 summit, the leaders had reaffirmed their resolve to meet global challenges and further champion shared international principles and values.

To maintain a free and open IndoPacific, the G7 leaders had emphasized their commitment to strengthen coordination with regional partners, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Koshikawa said. Rey E. Requejo (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

don't get along because they say we are violating their rules, but we don't see anything, so that's the situation,” he said.

“But you know, I don’t want to burn any bridges… We have to react to the situation as it is, and I think the proper reaction is to take the decision of the Kuwaiti government to no longer issue new visas,” the President added.

State-run Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Thursday said the Ministry of Interior has reaffirmed the suspension of issuance of all visas to Philippine passport holders after Manila “rejected” Kuwait’s request for it to recognize the alleged violations of the Philippine Embassy there.

Citing the Kuwait Public Authority of Manpower, KUNA said one of Manila’s “violations” was lodging Filipinos in “shelters and camps” run by the embassy.

Following this development, the Kuwait Ministry of Interior said it will “outsource the skills and expertise needed for its labor market through contracts with other countries.”

Vince Lopez (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Fellow suspects Jhudiel Rivero, Romel Pattaguan, Dahniel Lora andRogelio Antipolo Jr. have all recanted and gave similar narratives of coercion on the part of the government.

In his recantation confirmed on Monday by counsel Harold Montalbo, Rivero (a.k.a. Osmundo Rivero) claimed the police coerced him to admit his involvement and that he does not know fugitive Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr., the alleged mastermind.

Three counts of murder and frustrated murder cases have been filed before the Tanjay, Negros Oriental Regional Trial Court against Javier, Rivero, Joric Labrador, Benjie Rodriguez and 12 other JohnDoes.

Prosecutors previously said they expect recantations from the suspects after private defense lawyers surfaced to represent them.

PH, Saudi joint special hiring program crafted

The Philippines and Saudi Arabia are developing a joint special hiring program for skilled Filipino workers, the Department of Migrant Workers said Friday.

DMW Secretary Susan Ople said the possibility of the joint special hiring program was raised due to Saudi Arabia’s push to develop its tourism sector.

“We discussed the possibility of the Philippines and Saudi Arabia having a joint special hiring program for skilled Filipino workers because they are expecting a huge demand, especially for their tourism sector. They are embarking on expansion plans, and they want to attract more tourists to Saudi Arabia,” Ople said at a press conference.

“We said that perhaps if they give us the numbers and the profile ofworkers needed, then we will continue to discuss if there is a needfor the DMW to work closely with TESDA and other institutions and to put together a special hiring program just to meet the demands and requests of Saudi employers for skilled workers as well as the Saudi government,” she added.

Saudi Arabia plans to bring investments to the Philippines as well, Ople also said. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

PH rainy season could start next week—PAGASA

THE start of the country’s rainy season may be declared next week – just as the strongest storm in the world this year barrels into the country’s area of responsibility, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said Friday.

At a press conference, Esperanza Cayanan, PAGASA Deputy Administrator for Research and Development, said the rainy season would be declaredwhen the rainfall criteria in PAGASA’s reference station are observed and fulfilled.

"We now have the rainfall criteria in our reference stations and most probably, we would be getting the required amount of rainfall. What we are seeing right now is that, next week, it would be possible to declare the [start of] the rainy season,” said Cayanan.

She noted that the rainy season differs from the southwest monsoon, locally known as “habagat.”

“We have the southwesterly wind flow, indicating the Southwest Monsoon. But the rainy season is based on the rainfall criteria. There should be large area receiving rainfall,” she said.

“By next week, it’s possible that we will declare the onset of the rainy season,” Cayanan added.

Party-listers...

From A1 leadership, the House has successfully tackled critical challenges and advanced initiatives that have strengthened our economy and safeguarded the rights and freedoms of all Filipinos. We firmlysupport his leadership and look forward to working together to address the urgent needs of our nation,” the coalition statement said.

Romualdez on Friday said the signing into law of a bill condoningbillions of pesos of debt of agrarian reform beneficiaries will help many farmers boost productivity.

The House of Representatives approved on Dec. 12, 2022 its version of the measure, or House Bill (HB) 6336, while the Senate approved thecounterpart measure on March 6, 2023. The measure is now awaiting the President’s signature.

The bill condoning agrarian reform debt is among the 31 the House has approved to date, out of the 42 priority measures President Marcos had identified through the Legislative-Executive Advisory Council (LEDAC). (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

US,...

From A1

Thailand, aim to respond to emergencies more promptly, ensuring the procurement of vital goods and sharing of information, under a new scheme, according to the sources.

The US-led initiative covers four pillars -- fair trade, supply chain resilience, clean energy and proper taxation and anticorruption.

It is also regarded as a symbol of the world's biggest economy's reengagement in the fast-growing region after its withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade deal in 2017.

Russia and China, which are deepening their economic and security partnership amid increasing tensions with the United States and other countries, are not part of the IPEF.

IN BRIEF

Recto cites bill allowing early voting for PWDs

BATANGAS Rep. Ralph Recto has cited the House-approved bill allowing persons with disabilities (PWDs) to vote early during elections as “the assistive device” that removes the barrier that prevents PWDs from exercising their suffrage.

But more than that, it is “an access ramp to democracy” which could give millions of PWDs the political muscle to elect more of their kind to public office, Recto said.

He said the PWDs, numbering in the millions, have not broken “the political glass ceiling,” Recto said.

“No sector is grossly unrepresented. The truly marginalized remain unseen and unheard of in policymaking bodies, from local councils to Congress,” he added.

The PWD who served as a member of Congress, was the late journalist Art Borjal, a sectoral representative appointed by President Corazon Aquino. He was in office until June 1992. Maricel V. Cruz

Solon presses passage of salt industry bill

AGRI party-list Rep. Wilbert Lee on Friday pushed for the immediate passage of a measure that seeks to revitalize the salt industry in order to create jobs and to increase the income of salt producers.

Lee, one of the authors of House Bill No. 8278 or the “Philippine Salt Industry Development Act,” welcomed the approval of the measure on 2nd reading.

He said the bill “is expected to envigorate our salt industry and create 3,000 to 5,000 jobs for our countrymen, especially in rural areas, where they’re needed most.”

According to him, “it is about time that we pass this bill to put an end to the suffering of our salt farmers and salt producers.”

“It is not right that we still import 93 percent of our salt needs and leave our salt industry behind -- [the Philippines being] an archipelago country with one of the longest shorelines in the world,” Lee said. Maricel V. Cruz

QC orphanage loses fire safety certificate

AN OFFICIAL of the Bureau of Fire Protection has revoked the fire safety inspection certificate of the Gentle Hands Inc. (GHI) orphanage in Quezon City for alleged violation of the Fire Code.

“GHI was found to have violated pertinent provisions of the revised implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act 9514 or the Fire Code of the Philippines during said inspection resulting in the revocation of its FSIC,” said Senior Superintendent Aristotle Banaga, city district marshal.

“Our office is strictly monitoring for compliance and corrections of the defects and deficiencies stipulated in the Notice to Comply (NTC), which we have immediately issued after the conduct of the said fire safety inspection,” he added.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development gave Gentle Hands 20 days to answer the allegations. Rio N. Araja

MOTHER AND CHILD REUNION.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development turns over a baby to his mother at the agency’s Reception and Study Center for Children in Quezon City, ending four months of separation between the two (see story In Brief) Manny Palmero

Most Filipinos can’t find jobs—SWS

By Vito Barcelo

SURVEY says most Filipino workers find it hard to land a job nowadays.

The Social Weather Station (SWS) survey during the first quarter of the year showed that 69 percent of adult Filipinos are having difficulty looking for jobs these days.

The SWS study indicated that only 11 percent said “finding a job is easy these

days,” while 16 percent were undecided, while four percent had no idea at all and said “I don’t know.”

According to the SWS, looking for a job has always been difficult since 2011. However, 50 percent of the Filipino workforce are optimistic that there

would be more job opportunities available in the next 12 months.

Only 10 percent believed otherwise, while 26 percent said they expected no changes. Again, 14 percent said they don’t know.

“Since 2009, except during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Filipinos have been more optimistic about job availability,” the SWS said.

Meanwhile, 26 percent believed there will be “no changes,” 10 percent opined there would be “fewer jobs,” while 14

30 private firms team up with DILG’s BIDA anti-drug campaign

By Joel E. Zurbano

THIRTY private companies have joined forces with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in the anti-drugs war in the country.

The partnership was announced during the launch of the “BIDA (Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan) Workplace” at

Eastwood Richmonde Hotel in Quezon City on Thursday.

DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos, Jr. enjoined private companies to have their own anti- drug policy and conduct random drug testing of their employees to reduce the use of illegal drugs.

“BIDA Program is all about shared responsibility in countering illegal

drugs, and BIDA Workplace is our bid to forge dependable partnerships with the private sector. You will take care of your own internal mechanism but what is important is that every company would have a drug policy because they will be afraid to use it,” Abalos said.

According to the Secretary, the BIDA Workplace was part of the government’s

whole-of-nation approach to fight and eradicate illegal drugs throughout the country. Through this, he said, other aspects of the BIDA program will gradually achieve the drug-free status of the Philippines. He said he was happy with the solidarity of private companies that joined the program, and their desire to heed the DILG in subjecting their employees to drug tests.

percent declared they “don’t know.

The SWS survey was held March 2629 this year, using face-to-face interviews of 1,200 adults aged 18 and above nationwide. It had a margin of error of +/-2.8 percent.

Earlier, the SWS said unemployment among adult Filipinos decreased from 9.6 million in December 2022 to 8.7 million in March 2023.

But the SWS said this was still a far cry from the 7.9 million unemployed Filipinos in December 2019.

NEARLY eight out of 1,000 Filipinos are classified as “modern slaves,” according to an international human rights group.

The Walk Free Foundation’s 2023 Global Slavery Index which measures the extent of modern slavery in 160 countries, reported that almost eight or 7.8 per 1,000 Filipinos live in modern slavery. This translates to 859,000 people.

The index indicated that modern day slavery refers to situations of “exploitation that a person cannot refuse or leave because of threats, violence, coercion, or deception.”

Modern slavery also includes “forced labor, forced or servile marriage, debt bondage, forced commercial sexual exploitation, human trafficking, slavery-like practices, and the sale and exploitation of children,” it added.

The index also reported that the Philippines rated 66 out of 100 in vulnerability to modern slavery, and 59 percent in government response to modern slavery.

Philippine laws criminalized forced labor, along with the commercial sexual exploitation of children in keeping with international conventions.

The index suggested that the Philippines should enact laws or policies that require private recruitment fees be exacted on employers.

Villar to Las Piñas folk: Be proud of your heritage

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Cynthia Villar has enjoined Las Piñas City residents to take pride of their culinary talents and heritage.

Villar made the call as she addressed the 8th Las Piñas Food Festival held at Villar Sipag on C5 Extension.

“A food festival offers a good venue

where we can showcase the best of Filipino food to the rest of the world.

Like you are doing here right now.

Like what I said, we need to be proud of our Filipino dishes and culinary skills in general,” the senator said.

Villar, chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture and Food, noted that food festivals were also good ven-

LTO service provider airs

THE Land Transportation Office’s (LTO) information technology service provider has explained its side on the alleged inefficiencies that caused massive delays in the agency’s delivery of vital services to the motoring public.

The Germany-based Dermalog Identification Systems GmbH cited its own

ues for Filipino farmers and fisherfolk to promote their products.

All 20 barangays of the city sent their representatives to compete in the festival with the theme: “Nutrisyon mula sa Gulay para sa Malusog na Pamayanan.”

The event aims to encourage people to create food fusion on food preparation, as well as create nutritional food.

side on controversies

record of performance in countries where it operated, to clarify the controversies hounding its involvement with LTO projects, notably the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS).

These issues have been fully explained before the Congressional Committee on Transportation and the Commission on

Audit (COA), Dermalog insisted. Dermalog, in a press statement, claimed that both the Congress and COA acceded on the 14 extensions and 3-month delay due to the inadequate structure of the building which served as the Data Center and which needed to be renovated.

Group says eight of 1k Pinoys are ‘modern slaves’

FIREARMS INVENTORY. Colonels Job Russel Balaquit and Raniel Valones lead the periodic operational audit of the Philippine National P:olice’s Mobile Forces at the Manila Police District headquarters on United Nations Ave. in Ermita, Manila. Norman Cruz

ANTI-DENGUE DRIVE. Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano (center) supervises the installation of an anti-dengue device in one of the classrooms of the Timoteo Paez Elementary School in Malibay, Pasay City ahead of the coming of the rainy season when the incidence of dengue usually picks up. Joseph Muego

COMELEC SAYS

BSKE poll bets can voluntarily send drug tests

CANDIDATES in the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE) can undergo drug tests and voluntarily give their test results to the poll body, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said.

The poll body also added that it is hoping to partner with more malls that could serve as voting sites for the BSKE.

BSKE.” “The 92 million ballots have been printed, including the election returns, statement of votes, and others,” the official said.

‘Prime-ABS-CBN venture just for radio content’

THE joint venture between Prime Media and ABS-CBN will focus mainly on content creation and production for radio programs, not for free television broadcasts, Prime Media President Manolito A. Manalo said Friday.

“The objective of the JV is to provide accurate and balanced news and information to the country and public service,” Manalo, a lawyer, said in a statement.

“The content produced by the joint venture will be distributed to radio, cable TV, and other platforms, including the stations under the Philippine CollectiveMedia Company (PCMC). The

IN BRIEF

Tectonic quakes jolt Batanes, Masbate

TECTONIC earthquakes with magnitudes 5.6 and 5 jolted Batanes and Masbate, respectively, on Thursday night.

In Batanes, the quake’s epicenter was traced 33 km. Northeast of Itbayat.

In a bulletin issued at 11:14 p.m., the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said the magnitude 5.6 quake was 15 km. deep and occurred at 9:48 p.m.

Intensity III was felt in Itbayat; Intensity II in Basco and Mahatao, Batanes; and Intensity I in Ivana, Batanes.

No damage is expected but aftershocks are possible, Phivolcs said. Meanwhile, the magnitude 5 quake was recorded at 11:26 p.m. Its epicenter was traced 10 km. northwest of Uson, and had a depth of 14 km.

2 Pinoy fishermen rescued in Batanes

TWO distressed Filipino fishermen from Batanes were rescued by the Taiwanese coast guard after getting lost in the high seas of Kaohsiung due to their boat’s engine failure amid inclement weather on May 23.

Manila Economic and Cultural Office chairperson Silvestre Bello III said the crew of fishing vessel Man Sheng FA No. 6 saw the Filipinos distressed at sea, prompting them to report the incident to the Taiwan coast guard.

The fishermen, identified as Gerald Alarcado and Jenevis Alarcado, were rescued on May 24 after the Taiwan coast guard set up a perimeter around their boat until they were rescued, according to a news release.

Bello said the two are now housed at a shelter in Kaohsiung and would get repatriated to the Philippines after debriefing and processing of documentary requirements.

“We are truly grateful to all the officers and men of Taiwan who helped in their rescue,” Bello said.

Taiwan is a self-governing island claimed by China.

Agents intercept 2

Pinays bound for UAE

BUREAU of Immigration (BI) officers intercepted two Filipino women believed to be victims of human trafficking and held their alleged recruiter at the Clark International Airport (CIA).

BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said the three passengers initially claimed to be tourists bound for Hong Kong, flying out via Cebu Pacific Airlines.

The two victims claimed to be working as nannies for their traveling companion “Pauline,” 60, who was with two minor children.

Names of the victims and suspect have been withheld in compliance with antitrafficking laws.

When interviewed separately, it was found that they were bound to the United Arab Emirates to work as household service workers, and were offered a salary of 1,600 Dirhams.

Both victims said that they stumbled upon the recruitment via Facebook, and were instructed to travel with “Pauline” and her children and pretend they were her employees. Vito Barcelo

business model is similar to various local studios and production companies, but the content we will produce are not for free-TV broadcasts,” he added.

“PCMC is just one of its distribution channels. It is an independent organization,” Manalo further clarified.

“ABS-CBN will not be involved in Prime’s or PCMC’s operations. The Parties will create a joint venture company,” he said.

Prime Media recognizes the power of radio to connect people, raise awareness, and influence positive social change due to its wide reach, affordability, and accessibility, Manalo said.

“The partnership with ABS-CBN is, without a doubt, a great business opportunity. More importantly, it is an ideal example of corporate social responsibility; meant to address information gaps and provide public service,” the statement read.

“For the shareholders of Prime, the transaction will enhance their shares’ value through the revenue stream expected to be generated from its equity investment in the joint venture,” it added. ABS-CBN Corp. said Tuesday it signed a joint venture agreement with Prime Media Holdings Inc. to produce various content and programs.

NEDA, KOICA sign deal for $2.5m integrated water resources project

By Julito G. Rada

THE National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) signed on Friday a pact to implement the Integrated Water Resources Management and Sustainable Development project worth $2.5 million or roughly P140 million.

“This momentous occasion holds great promise for the improvement of vital services, such as water supply, sanitation, irrigation, and flood control under the framework of Integrated Water Resources Management or the IWRM,” NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said.

“By ensuring equitable, efficient, and sustainable management and allocation of our water resources, we can embark on a path of progress,” Balisacan said. The capacity development project will continue until 2024. It aims to

increase the management and technical skills of institutions involved in the water resources sector.

The initiative supports the strategies under the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, which indicates that integrated water and resource management is a way to intensify the rehabilitation, protection, and management of the country’s ecosystems.

During the signing ceremony, the NEDA chief highlighted that the project is imperative for addressing the issues in the water sector caused by weak governance and fragmented systems.

“We must address these shortcomings by embracing effective water governance through integrated water resources management. By harmonizing the planning and management of land, water, and coastal resources, we can overcome these obstacles and create a brighter future for all,” Balisacan said.

On the drug tests, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos earlier challenged candidates to undergo said test.

Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco said that “nothing can stop our candidates if they themselves voluntarily present and give their negative drug testing certificate to Comelec.”

“I think this will also help them, as long as it is voluntary,” Laudiangco, quoted by a GMA News report said.

According to the official, the Supreme Court previously ruled that the poll body cannot add requirements other than those stated in the Constitution.

Laudinagco added that the Comelec is “completely ready for the

Speaking on the partnership with malls, Laudiangco said at least 20 malls were expected to participate as voting sites in the October polls, ABSCBN News reported. The official did not mention the location and name of the establishments.

“We will set up voting centers there and nearby barangays will benefit and they will be able to vote there. We hope to add more malls with enough space int he next months,” the official, quoted by ABS-CBN News report, said. Laudiangco said the move would lessen the disruption of classes in schools used as voting sites. The official further said that a month before the elections, the poll body will train teachers and the members of the election board.

Senators file measure to probe cause of Manila Post Office fire

SENATORS Alan Peter Cayetano and Loren Legarda filed similar resolutions for an inquiry on the cause of the fire that gutted the Manila Central Post Office.

The resolutions also call for the need to restore the building and protect other historic sites.

Cayetano noted that the said fire was “a wake-up call” on the need to protect national heritage buildings and artifacts.

“The state should make use of this unfortunate event as a learning opportunity on how buildings of cultural, artistic, and historical significance to the

Philippines should be better taken care of as future tragedies of this scale must be prevented,” Cayetano said in his Senate Resolution No. 635.

With the fire happening during the celebration of National Heritage Month, Cayetano said it is “incumbent upon the government to provide safeguards to protect our national treasures with modern equipment, surveillance, and strategies, and to ensure that the relevant agencies receive proper funding.”

During the plenary session, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said he filed a measure to create a special Sen-

ate committee “to look after the restoration and rehabilitation” of the iconic landmark in Manila.

Sen. Sonny Angara, who chairs the Senate finance committee, said Zubiri had instructed him to work with the Department of Budget and Management to find sources of funds for the building’s rehabilitation.

Rebuilt after the war, the heritage building beside the Pasig River is known for its Greco-Roman pillars and neoclassical style designed by Juan Arellano, Tomas Mapua and Ralph Doane.

Sen. Chiz Escudero guranteed the

building is covered by the state insurer Government Service Insurance System. GSIS president Wick Veloso confirmed that the building is insured for P604 million.

“That should be the financial cornerstone of its reconstruction,” Escudero said.

The iconic post office caught fire on Sunday night, May 21, and was engulfed in flames for a total of eight hours before the fire was brought under control by the Bureau of Fire Protection on Monday morning. Damage was estimated at around P300 million. Macon Ramos-Araneta

Competition regulator says no cap on motorcycle taxis in PH

THE Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) is not keen on imposing a cap on the number of motorcycle taxis plying the country’s roads because it would encourage more players to enter the country’s growing motorcycle taxi industry and benefit commuters.

These were the points stressed by a representative of the PCC who participated in the recent joint hearing of the Senate Committees on Public Services and Local Government that tackled proposed measures to regulate and legalize motorcycles-for-hire to ensure they are safe, efficient and affordable as a mode of public transportation.

Asked by Senate Committee on Public Services Chairperson Grace Poe on the possible entry of Grab Philippines in

the motorcycle taxi industry, PCC Executive Director Kenneth Tanate said: “In terms of market situation, more players would be better for consumers.”

“If we are going to apply competition principles, no cap would be better given that it would benefit the consumers,” Tanate added in addressing concerns on capping the number to motorcycle taxis that would be allowed to operate.

In the guidelines of the Department of Transportation-backed Technical Working Group, only three transportation network companies are allowed to operate under the three-year-old pilot program. They are Angkas, whose estimated market share is more than 50%, JoyRide and Move It. Macon Ramos-Araneta

FACING THE PRESS. Reigning Miss International Jasmin Selberg of Germany arranges her Filipiniana dress as she answers questions from reporters during a press conference on Friday at the Novotel in Cubao Quezon City. Danny Pata

LUCKY RIDER. Lalamove rider Joseph Bernardo holds the key to a Yamaha NMAX motorcycle he won in the Pag-Ibig Asenso Rider Ra e Promo held at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Macapagal Avenue, Pasay City on May 25. With him are Jose Rizalino Acuzar Human Settlements Secretary; and Marilene Acosta, Pag-Ibig Fund CEO. Joseph Muego

Education key to road safety, courtesy

THE Metro Manila Development Authority

(MMDA)

has always been very aggressive in apprehending road violations, including illegal parking.

It has been doing it for a long time that the operations often turn into cat-andmouse plays, or worse, become violent.

Is it the only solution our government can think of? To offer a thought, it’s not really working.

Enforcement operations can only become a source of corruption and abuse by traffic agents if they cannot be properly monitored.

Light of the Spirit

ON SUNDAY, we joyously commemorate the sacred occasion of Pentecost. During this momentous event, we honor the glorious descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles who had congregated in the upper room in Jerusalem, their hearts filled with trepidation.

This extraordinary occurrence signifies the inception of the Church, ushering in a new era of spiritual enlightenment and divine guidance.

The Scripture says that on the evening of that first day of the week, when the doors were locked, where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side.

The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord.

due to the confusion caused by divergent systems and implementations by the LGUs. What the MMDA and the LGUS have failed to do was to return to the roots of the problem – maleducation.

Thankfully, a private firm has taken important steps to educate young Filipinos about the importance of road safety.

Manny Pangilinan’s Metro Pacific Tollways has partnered with youthoriented channel, Nickelodeon, to feature safety messages on its cartoon program Paw Patrol.

As in the gospel story, it took the intervention of Jesus to expel Legion. But first, the light of the Spirit showed me the way – to repent and ask for forgiveness especially for what I said and did for someone I considered a best friend.

It is vital to remember this.

Through the sacrament of penance, the Holy Spirit works to forgive our sins.

We firmly believe that mercy brings hope and transformation to our souls. Christ assures us that His power will always be with us, so there is no reason to lose hope after encountering setbacks in life.

Instead, the Holy Spirit’s purpose is to lead us from mercy to a deeper likeness to Christ, enabling us to spiritually bear and reveal His wounds to a world lacking faith.

Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.”

And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.” This concise passage concludes with a profound blessing bestowed upon us by Jesus during His final days on Earth: “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”

One of the greatest blessings bestowed upon us by God is the Holy Spirit, a gift that empowers us to live a virtuous life through its presence.

and uncertainties.

Secondly, the Holy Spirit empowers us to bear witness to the transformative power of Christ in our own lives.

By yielding to the Spirit’s guidance, we receive spiritual gifts such as wisdom, discernment, and boldness, enabling us to effectively share our personal testimonies and experiences with others.

The Spirit equips us to demonstrate the love, grace, and compassion exemplified by Jesus, becoming living illustrations of the gospel message.

Lastly, the Holy Spirit enables us to proclaim the profound message of the gospel to the world.

Through the Spirit’s inspiration and guidance, we are emboldened to share the good news of salvation, forgiveness, and reconciliation found in Jesus Christ.

The presence of the Spirit empowers our words and actions, making them impactful and transformative.

It is through the Holy Spirit that hearts are convicted, people are drawn to God, and spiritual awakening and conversion are brought forth.

To cultivate our connection with the Holy Spirit, we must be willing to forgive.

The Local Government Units have tried NCAP or the No Contact Apprehension Policy. But that has also been questioned because it is lacking in studies and the infrastructures are not properly installed such as traffic lights with countdowns, as requested by motorists. The NCAP was pelted with complaints

Metro Pacific Tollways, which operates the North Luzon Expressway and the Cavite Expressway, has acknowledged that road accidents on the road, including major highways, kill thousands of Filipinos annually. Metro Pacific has also initiated education programs about road safety involving truck and bus drivers. With the advent of social media and digital media, the LGUs and the MMDA should start refocusing their energy on long-term road safety programs.

Instead of flogging hapless sidewalk vendors and lowly riders, they should go to school and educate our youth about patience, humility, cleanliness, and courtesy on the road.

Education, not violation tickets, is the real key to attaining road discipline both for motorists and commuters.

OUR relations with China over the issue on Taiwan is rather speculative.

It opens our foreign policy to a fathomless possibility like asking what if China invades Taiwan?

Or what are we going to do?

A wiser speculation is asked -- how will the US react to the grim prospects that could result in the possible obliteration of Taiwan?

Would the US sit idly to witness the specter of full-scale war instigated by it? Will it not invite the possibility of arms race in the South China Sea? We should not speculate that the US alone could determine the future course of events in the region.

The arms race theory is more likely to demolish the US naval fleet that would attempt to block Chinese warships, or that geopolitical analysts believe China would be able to gather supporters in the region and are most likely to counter the arms race the US would be instigating.

The numerous conflicts with which the US has initiated and participated in Asia attest that even in war, many of its allies have doubts about the resolve of the US; whether the pending war with China is for real or an extension of propaganda blitz or to reassure its allies in this region.

Many doubt the capacity of the US to sustain another land war in Asia.

The US has left an inglorious history of retreat in many of the recent conflicts it participated.

Some of its alleged allies in the region suspect that many of the war it initiated in Asia were in fact conceived by those generals in Pentagon or protégées of America’s militaryindustrial complex. They suspect the US involvement in Asia since the Korean War were all calculated to determine whether they are winnable in terms of investment; to abruptly announce a pullout will give reason not compensated for the sacrifices and damages incurred by those who fought for their make-believe war for freedom and democracy.

The first time the US did this was in the Korean War in 1953.

Instead of calling for the ending of the war, the US revised the term by calling the situation “armistice” or the temporary cessation of hostilities by the conflicting parties.

US defense strategists called their pull out to mean no surrender but simply to cease fighting.

The concept of armistice gave the WWII hero, then retired General Douglas MacArthur, a graceful exit and to erase the shameful retreat of US soldiers loaded on board the retreating 6x6 troop transport trucks without talks of compensating those who fought on their side including a number of Filipino soldiers who died fighting for their vague freedom including our own hero “Boni” Serrano.

In 1973, this infamy of defeat was again repeated when the US abruptly pulled out its troops in South Vietnam despite the more than 50,000 US troops killed in action and the more 5 million Vietnamese civilians killed defending their motherland.

President Lyndon Johnson never confessed the truth that the Vietnam war began a false flag when it claimed US destroyer USS Maddox was treacherously attacked by North Vietnamese gunboats in the Gulf of Tonkin.

The intensity of the fighting caused much to drain the US economy, thus forcing President Richard Nixon to drop the gold as a medium of currency as agreed on in the 1946 BrettonWoods Agreement. From then on, the US was allowed to print its currency solely on the basis of its gross domestic product which today is the basis of its current huge trade deficit.

Initially, it lightened the US trade deficit because the US dollar was overvalued against other currencies plus the US trade surplus then.

The US also made a sneak attack to rescue its held hostage in Tehran by the new regime.

Unfortunately, the rescue hit a snag after its

Understanding the Holy Spirit can be challenging at times, but it serves as the bridge that keeps us connected to God.

It is our responsibility to nurture this connection on a daily basis. If you ever feel distant from God or disconnected from your faith, the first step is to rekindle your relationship with the Holy Spirit within you. I have had challenging moments these last few weeks, experiencing betrayal and being used, manipulated, and abandoned. I could feel the anger and hatred take over me. But thankfully the Holy Spirit made me see how much of the mess I am in is because of me — my hubris, my feeling entitled, my selfishness.

It is as if a Legion of demons took over my mind and heart, made vulnerable by my fear of death.

Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus continually strengthens our faith, empowers us to bear witness, and enables us to proclaim the profound message of the gospel. The Holy Spirit plays a pivotal role in the lives of believers, serving as the conduit through which Jesus continually strengthens our faith, empowers us to bear witness, and enables us to proclaim the profound message of the gospel.

First and foremost, the Holy Spirit strengthens our faith by providing guidance and comfort, establishing a profound connection with God.

Through the Spirit’s presence, we gain a deeper understanding of Scripture, acquire insight, and develop a steadfast belief in the teachings of Jesus.

This strengthening of faith grants us the courage and resilience needed to navigate life’s challenges

as president—a group of people from the northwestern town of Paoay in Ilocos Norte.

After Jesus bestowed the gift of the Holy Spirit upon us, He emphasized that we have the power to forgive those who wrong us. If we genuinely aspire to live a virtuous life, we must learn to forgive others and strive for harmonious living.

Undoubtedly, these actions are easier said than done.

Nevertheless, we are urged to ignite a heart filled with gratitude and forgiveness and to uphold this disposition as a disciplined practice.

I commit to doing the same.

May the light of the Spirit be upon us all so we can learn to forgive.

As my favorite Ben and Ben song goes, you never really love someone until you learn to forgive.

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

THE pandemic, raised by the global coronavirus or COVID-19, appears to have forced many to go past the exit door of employment, but the more fortunate ones have found themselves still in the company payroll or were rehired.

In the Philippines, the pandemic, according to official data, has greatly affected health, jobs and rights of the population, with the highest unemployment rate at one point registering 17.6 percent during the first implementation of Enhanced Community Quarantine.

To date, there have been 4.12 million confirmed cases, with 66,466 deaths. For people who work after retirement, experts say these people often remain more active and socially connected, which can mean better overall health and fewer medical issues.

Some have said: “Very often, some people work for money and/or health benefits. Some work for the money to travel and/or do things they are interested in, such as hobbies. Other people work because they feel valuable doing the work, and it gives them a sense of purpose. Or, a retiree might work due to any combination of the above.”

Traditional retirement age

Some researchers have said people of traditional retirement age don’t want to stop working. Does this sound strange? Isn’t the whole point of retirement to sit back, relax, and enjoy your life?

We had the opportunity to exchange views with one, Philippine-educated medical technologist but is, while nearing the elderly zone, still working at Kaiser Permanent Regional Laboratories as the Assistant Director of Operations in California.

The Paoay, Ilocos Norte-born Marjorie Perdido was recently given the GEM (Going the Extra Mile) Award for Southern California Regional Offices for supporting the Kaiser Permanente mission, vision and values. October, 2022Outstanding Manager of Southern California.

The 59-year-old mother of one daughter— she’s turning 60 on May 30—says “I am living my life to the fullest each day, trying to be more active by walking” and remains active with the civic organization Annak Ti Paoay Foundation

sophisticated radars, communication equipment, and the added cost of constructing additional bases and the regular supply of updated arms.

While she admits stress is always present in life, “it is how you handle and avoid the stressors.”

In the Philippines, people who reach 60, assuming good health, can opt for early retirement.

But in California, Social Security’s full-benefit retirement age is increasing gradually because of legislation passed by Congress in 1983.

Traditionally, the full benefit age was 65, and early retirement benefits were first available at age 62, with a permanent reduction to 80 percent of the full benefit amount.

monthly benefit that is 8 percent higher for each year he or she delays collecting benefits until the latest claiming age of 70, at which point benefits are 132 percent of what they would have been at the normal retirement age.

Official sources say when the full benefit age reaches 67, benefits claimed at age 70 will be 24 percent higher because of that delay.

The maximum retirement benefit in 2017 for someone who waits until age 70 to collect benefits is $3,538 a month.

‘More active’

Perdido, replying to a question, said people who decide to go back to work after retirement remain more active and socially connected, which means being more active in mind and in better health.

But she admits that recently, the erstwhile physically energetic person – she goes to bed at 9 and sleeps at 10 or 11 pm and wakes up at 5.30 am – felt her body getting weaker.

The 1.65-meter Perdido philosophizes: “I think that age is just a number. I might say I am 60 but, in my heart, I am only 40. Everything gets better with age. I never let my fear get in the way of my dreams. I have created a life I am proud of. I enjoy my life each day.”

She adds: “When I was younger, I used to worry so much about what people say. My value goes up with age. I feel like I am an antique, the higher the age, the more valuable.

helicopter was shot down.

Yes, the US also participated in numerous wars: in Iraq; in Afghanistan, Serbia, and Libya and made an spectacular pullout in Afghanistan, leaving behind a number of equipment including helicopters, armored vehicles and aircraft – not to mention their surreptitious involvement in Syria, Sudan and Yemen for fear it would only add to their number of infamous defeat.

US involvement was precipitated by the fall of the Soviet Union. US policy makers began to entertain the notion to subdivide Russia by enticing the former Soviet states to join NATO. This is now the root cause of the current Russia-Ukraine War.

American strategy to hasten the increase in its land area by annexing either Russia and China is typical of the US expansion in North America.

Today, they want to extend NATO by imposing a two percent contribution of their GDP with the novel idea of extending the alliance to Asia.

That way, the US military industrial complex will have less difficulty in selling arms to its expanded allies like the sale of US-made aircraft, warships, patrol boats, submarines,

The US sees many items which could help boost its economy when its military-industrial complex (MIC) allowed the manufacture under license of nuclear-powered submarines and the production of stealth F-35 stealth jet aircraft to various countries.

This system of licensing has greatly contributed to the widespread sale of arms and rejuvenated the US economy. Admittedly US policy makers made us to believe that the US desire to secure additional arms under the expanded Enhanced Cooperative Agreement (EDCA) was meant to assure their defense in the event of an attack from China. They do not explain that having military bases is in the Philippines is in violation of our Constitution more so if such agreement is not ratified by the Senate in a treaty and by a mere executive agreement.

The demand for additional military bases was to pressure the Marcos government to justify the demand to our security because of our dispute over some of the islands in the South China Sea without mentioning that there are other countries in the region equally eager to take slice of the area.

Our proximity to Taiwan provided added reason for the US for additional bases considering that Taiwan remains principal objective why China wants to have that island reunited with their mainland.

The US thought that having more military

Currently, the full benefit age is 66 years and twp months for people born in 1955, and it will gradually rise to 67 for those born in 1960 or later.

Early retirement benefits will continue to be available at age 62, but they will be reduced more.

Official sources say when the full-benefit age reaches 67, benefits taken at age 62 will be reduced to 70 percent of the full benefit and benefits first taken at age 65 will be reduced to 86.7 percent of the full benefit.

There is a financial bonus for delayed retirement.

An individual reaching the full-benefit age in 2017 (66 years and two months old) receives a

bases in the country would provide Taiwan the security blanket imagining that bases in the Philippines would help placate the awaited invasion.

Realistically, there is no valid and legal reason why the US should come to the defense of Taiwan.

Some even speculate the request by the US Department of Defense made through their favorite Amboy Philippine Ambassador to the US “Babes” Romualdez to increase the number of US bases in the country was more of a ploy the US will come to our security to give our policy makers the assurance, unaware that is was only intended to raise the ante in the event that day of reckoning comes.

We never learned our lesson that in politics the US has equally mastered the art of weaponizing to get what they want.

In 2016, then State Secretary Hillary Clinton was quoted saying the US will not defend the archipelago in the event China opted to invade the Philippines. Her statement earned headline in the US weekly Time magazine.

Thus, then President Duterte threatened to declare the US ambassador persona non-grata and wanted the US to pull out their bases.

The younger Marcos has opted to gamble the destiny of the country by forsaking the country’s economy buoyed by the economic assistance from China.

The country likes to remain in the backwater economically. Everywhere China goes, there is progress and development, and a general upliftment in the livelihood of our people thanks to the

“In the beginning, I was not mentioning my age. But I realized that it is achievement to get to this age. So now, I am no longer ashamed to tell my age when they ask for it. (and) make every moment count; live in the present moment.”

Like many we have met, she stands by the Golden Rule as her personal philosophy, adding “treat everyone well.”

Some attribute the Golden Rule to the influential Chinese philosopher Confucius, who made it an unrivaled centerpiece of his philosophy of life (The Analects, 1962).

But the ancient Greek rhetorician, Isocrates, not to be confused with classical Greek philosopher, Socrates, taught his students the following: “Do not do to others that which angers you when they do it to you.”

MORE OPINION ONLINE

(www.manilastandard.net)

Escrow insertion in draft seafarers law is unconstitutional

development assistance which undoubtedly runs to billions of dollars. As one commentator would put it, if the younger Marcos wants to put at risk his family’s somewhat dynastic governance, he is not that naive how his family were once kicked out by the Americans.

The US refuses to think twice that getting rid of them happened all because of the value of the RMB that now seems to influence the word’s currency.

(pkapunan@gmail.com)

People who decide to go back to work after retirement remain more active and socially connected, which means being more active in mind and in better health

If the younger Marcos wants to put at risk his family’s somewhat dynastic governance, he is not that naive how his family were once kicked out by the Americans

‘Living life to the fullest’

The US is bluffing on its demand for the bases

Man arrested after four killed in Japan

gun and knife attack

TOKYO – Japanese police on Friday detained a man who had holed up in a building after allegedly killing four people, including two police officers, in a gun and knife attack.

Masanori Aoki, 31, was taken into custody at his house outside a farm near the city of Nakano in the Nagano region, police said.

They also confirmed a fourth fatality overnight – an elderly woman who was found injured at the scene and later pronounced dead.

Another woman and two police officers were earlier confirmed dead in the attack.

Aoki has initially been formally arrested with suspicion of murder over the death of one of the police officers, Nagano regional police chief Iwao Koyama told reporters.

He is likely to be rearrested later in connection with the other deaths, in a process that allows law enforcement to detain a suspect for longer while investigations continue.

Aoki is not contesting the charge, Koyama said, adding 100 officers are investigating the case.

"This case was an extremely heinous act that shocked not just regional residents but society as a whole," he said.

"We need to thoroughly investigate this and see the whole picture including the how and why," he said.

The rampage in a rural area of the central region was a rare instance of violent crime in Japan, which has a low murder rate and some of the world's toughest gun laws.

Several local media reported Aoki is the son of the speaker of Nakano's city assembly, and lived with his parents and aunt in the house where he holed up overnight.

"We pray for the souls of the deceased and express our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families," top government spokesman Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters.

"Police are investigating to uncover the whole picture of the incident, including how the crime developed and its background." - 'Because I wanted to' -

The attack started on Thursday afternoon, when a local man working on a farm saw a woman "running from the road saying, 'help me'," he told national broadcaster NHK.

"Behind her came a man wearing camouflage and carrying a large knife, who stabbed her in the back," the 72-year-old witness said.

He said he called emergency services while neighbors tried to resuscitate the woman.

The attacker announced: "I killed her because I wanted to," according to an eyewitness cited by Kyodo news. AFP

Ukrainians forced to take Russian passports ‘to erase their identity’

KYIV – Before fleeing occupied Ukraine, Victoria was getting squeezed to apply for a Russian passport she said she never wanted as “I’m a citizen of Ukraine”.

Soldiers in the street warned her to get one, she could not file key paperwork without it, and she heard stories of door-to-door checks ending in deportation for people lacking Russian papers.

Moscow has been steadily imposing its passports to justify its occupation and tighten control, but also to undermine Ukrainian identity, experts said.

Musk’s Neuralink says cleared for brain implants human test

SAN FRANCISCO – Elon Musk's start-up

Neuralink on Thursday said it has approval from US regulators to test its brain implants in people.

Neuralink said clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its first inhuman clinical study is "an important first step" for its technology, which is intended to let brains interface directly with computers.

"We are excited to share that we have received the FDA's approval to launch our firstin-human clinical study," Neuralink said in a post on Musk-run Twitter.

Recruitment for a clinical trial is not yet open, according to Neuralink.

The aim of Neuralink implants is to enable human brains to communicate directly with computers, Musk said during a presentation by the start-up in December.

"We've been working hard to be ready for our first human (implant), and obviously we want to be extremely careful and certain that it will work well before putting a device in a human," he said at the time.

Neuralink prototypes, which are the size of a coin, have been implanted in the skulls of monkeys, demonstrations by the startup showed.

At a presentation, Neuralink showed several

monkeys "playing" basic video games or moving a cursor on a screen through their Neuralink implant.

The technology has also been tested in pigs. With the help of a surgical robot, a piece of the skull is replaced with a Neuralink disk, and its wispy wires are strategically inserted into the brain, an early demonstration showed.

The disk registers nerve activity, relaying the information via common Bluetooth wireless signal to a device such as a smartphone, according to Musk.

"It actually fits quite nicely in your skull," Musk said during a prior presentation.

"It could be under your hair and you wouldn't know."

- Uploading memories? -

Musk said the company would try to use the implants to restore vision and mobility in humans who had lost such abilities.

"We would initially enable someone who has almost no ability to operate their muscles... and enable them to operate their phone faster than someone who has working hands," he said.

"As miraculous as it may sound, we are confident that it is possible to restore full body functionality to someone who has a severed spinal cord," he said. AFP

"I absolutely didn't want to do it," 43-year-old Victoria, speaking on condition her full name not be used, told AFP in Ukraine-held Zaporizhzhia. But she relented when she needed to register a home and car deed – transactions for which Moscow-installed authorities demanded Russian documents. She began getting the required Russian translations of her Ukrainian marriage and birth

Battles resume in Sudan’s Darfur on 4th day of truce At 100,

KHARTOUM – Fighting between forces loyal to Sudan's rival generals on Friday rocked the western region of Darfur, witnesses said, on the fourth day of a fragile US- and Saudi-brokered ceasefire.

The one-week truce, the latest in a series of agreements that have all been systematically violated, was breached only minutes after it took effect on Monday night. There have since been further violations of the ceasefire, which is meant to allow for much-needed humanitarian aid to reach war-ravaged parts of the country, with the warring sides blaming each other.

In El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, residents reported "battles with all types of weapons", six weeks into a war between the regular army, led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Since it erupted on April 15, the fighting has killed more than 1,800 people, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project.

The United Nations says more than a million Sudanese have been displaced, in addition to 300,000 who have fled to neighbouring countries.

Even before the conflict began, one-third of Sudan's 45 million people faced famine, and about 25 million people were now in need of humanitarian aid, the UN said.

While the current ceasefire agreement has allowed for a lull in fighting, no humanitarian corridors have been opened to allow civilians to leave or aid to reach the affected areas.

The United States said on Thursday observers had detected the use of artillery, drones and military aircraft as well as fighting both in Khartoum and in Darfur.

"We retain our sanctions authority and if appropriate we will not hesitate to use that authority," said US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller.

Conditions have been particularly alarming in Darfur, already ravaged by a conflict that erupted in 2003 and saw then president Omar al-Bashir unleash the feared Janjaweed militia to

WASHINGTON – Henry Kissinger, whose very name is synonymous with US diplomacy, turns 100 Saturday feted by the American elite as others seethe that the ruthless Cold Warrior has never faced accountability.

From opening the door to communist China to plotting an endgame to the Vietnam War to unapologetically backing dictators who were anti-Soviet, Kissinger wielded influence like few before or after him, serving as both top diplomat and security advisor to presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford.

Instantly recognizable for his bookishly thick glasses and a sharpwitted monotone that never lost a touch of his native German, Kissinger was first

HITLER’S COKE? This handout picture released by the Peruvian National Police shows the police showing the 58 kilos of cocaine branded with the Nazi swastika and engraved with Hitler’s name seized in a Liberianflagged container ship docked in the northern port of Paita, Peru, on May 25. AFP

certificates but left the process unfinished when she fled eastern Ukraine in January.

"Even if I got a Russian passport, I would still remain Ukrainian. For me, nothing would change," she said. Russia had for years been issuing passports to Ukrainians in the eastern Donbas areas held by pro-Moscow separatists as well as annexed Crimea.

- 'Start queueing at night'But since President Vladimir Putin launched his invasion 15 months ago, the passport drive has gradually become more aggressive.

An array of routine necessities such as receiving government benefits, getting or keeping a job and seeking medical treatment require Russian-issued papers, experts and residents told AFP.

Putin in April even signed a decree that allows Ukrainians in occupied areas to potentially be deported if they do not get a Russian passport by July 1, 2024.

"There are queues at the passport offices," 40-year-old Alyona, who spoke on condition her full name not be used, told AFP from occupied Ukraine. AFP

an academic and his intellectual gifts are acknowledged begrudgingly even by some of his harshest critics.

Since leaving office in 1977, Kissinger's brand of realpolitik – the coldly cynical championing of power and national interests – has largely fallen out of favor as his successors preached moralism, but Kissinger himself has if anything enjoyed greater repute.

Ahead of his centennial, Kissinger blew candles on a cake at a celebratory luncheon at the Economic Club of New York, the city where he grew up after his Jewish family fled Nazi Germany. Showing his worldview has not changed at the century mark, Kissinger cautioned for the United States to stay within the bounds of "vital interests," telling the guests, "We need to be always strong enough to resist any pressures." AFP

OIL PROTEST. Climate protesters pour oil over them as scuffles between police and protesters broke out with the use of tear gas during a demonstration on the outskirts of the Paris venue for TotalEnergies Annual General Meeting in Paris on May 26. AFP

RITE. Jordan’s King Abdullah II (right), Queen Rania, Crown Prince Hussein (third from right) and Princess Muna (second from left) attend an official event celebrating the country’s 77th Independence Day at the Raghdan Royal Palace in Amman on May 25. AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Henry Kissinger

Stock market falls; Petron leads advancers

STOCKS fell Friday as investors remain nervous over the approaching deadline to avert a calamitous US default.

The PSE index, the 30-company benchmark, shed 30 points, or 0.46 percent, to close at 6,530.20, as five of the six subsectors ended in the red. The broader all-shares index also lost 8 points, or 0.25 percent, to settle at 3,488.08 on a value turnover of P4.55 billion. Losers outnumbered gainers, 98 to 79, while 37 shares were unchanged. Only three of the 10 most active stocks

ended in the green, led by Petron Corp. which jumped 10.71 percent to P4.65. Agrinurture Inc. gained 0.55 percent to P7.32, while SM Investments Corp. finished 0.44 percent higher at P920.00.

Meanwhile, the peso rose 0.49 percent Friday to close at 55.79 against the US dollar from 56.06 Thursday.

Markets have taken a hit in recent days on worries about the slow pace of negotiations in Washington, even after President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy expressed optimism earlier in the week.

On Thursday, Biden reiterated his pledge that “there will be no default” despite the wrangling, adding that talks with McCarthy, who leads the Republican negotiators, had been “productive”.

For his part, the Speaker also expressed his determination to get an agreement to raise the borrowing limit by June 1, when the Treasury has warned the government is expected to run out of cash to service its debts.

“We know where our differences lie,” he said. “We do not have an agreement yet. We knew this would not be easy. It’s hard, but we’re working. And we’re gonna continue to work till we get this done.”

Reports said the two camps were edging towards a deal that would lift the debt ceiling and cap spending for two years.

Pressure for a deal was ramped up Wednesday after Fitch placed the country’s AAA-ranked credit on “rating

AIRCRAFT INCIDENT. An opened door of an Asiana Airlines plane is seen at Daegu International Airport in Daegu on May 26, 2023, after it was manually opened by a passenger just 200 meters above the ground before landing, causing some to have breathing difficulty but with no major injuries. AFP

Washington concerned over China moves against US companies

WASHINGTON, USA—US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo expressed concern to her Chinese counterpart Wang Wentao on Thursday over Beijing’s restrictions on US companies.

The officials, who met in Washington, “had candid and substantive discussions on issues relating to the US-China commercial relationship,” the US Department of Commerce said in a statement.

This included “the overall environment in both countries for trade and investment and areas for potential cooperation,” it said.

“Secretary Raimondo also raised concerns about the recent spate of PRC actions taken against US companies operating in the PRC,” the statement said, using an acronym for the People’s Republic of China.

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce also said the two had “a frank, professional and constructive exchange.”

Wang “expressed key concerns on US economic and trade policies towards China,” particularly “semiconductor policies,” it added.

China imposed restrictions on US semiconductor giant Micron on Sunday, claiming that its chips posed “major network security risks” that could affect “national security.”

The United States, through a State Department spokesperson, expressed serious concerns on the issue.

The semiconductor sector is highly strategic and was already the subject of tensions between the two countries, with the United States also restricting sales of advanced chips to China.

Tensions are running high between Washington and Beijing as they engage in fierce competition on the diplomatic, military, technological, and economic fronts.

They are also at loggerheads over several diplomatic issues such as Taiwan and Russia. The two sides have resumed high-level contact in recent weeks, however.

Wang’s visit to Washington represents a rare trip for a senior Chinese official to the United States. His meeting was “part of ongoing efforts to maintain open lines of communication and responsibly manage the relationship,” the US Commerce Department said. AFP

PH tourism needs infra solutions; Grab’s penalties continue to mount

THERE’S nothing wrong with promoting emerging and lesser-known destinations across the Philippines to make it a tourism powerhouse in Asia. The sector needs all the help it can get to compete with rival tourism spots in the region, especially in Southeast Asia.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco was spot-on when she vowed to prioritize the marketing of unsung destinations in the country, akin to a successful tourism program in her home province Cebu, which aided local governments in developing lesser-known tourism sites.

Frasco referred to Cebu’s experience, its SuroySuroy Sugbo program, which her mother, Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia, introduced in 2004. Ms. Frasco wants to replicate Suroy-Suroy Sugbo, or wandering in Cebu, throughout the Philippine archipelago. The travel industry credited the program for making destinations like Bantayan, Camotes and southern Cebu more popular to local and international tourists. But bringing in tourists to less-traveled destinations will remain a challenge. Potential visitors to these little-known places will never get to see them if the government does not provide infrastructure and logistics support to the tourism sector. The Philippines, for one, does not offer modern airports that could provide seamless travel to the preferred destinations of tourists.

The Philippines is probably the only nation in the world that does not have a modern airport with railway links. For one foreign tourist, traveling from the airport to his local destination spot could be a nightmare. American and European airports complement theirs with metros, or subways. The rail connection offers foreign tourists in the Philippines an option to avoid chaotic road traffic conditions in getting to their next immediate destination.

Getting out of the airport and motoring to lesserknown destinations as suggested by Ms. Frasco will not be a smooth ride for the travel-weary tourist. Besides, the country’s transport logistics are not run by professional organizations. How many times have we heard of foreign tourists being milked by cab drivers from the airport on their way to their dream tourism spot?

Additional sanction

Ride-hailing app Grab Philippines found itself in

hot water again after the Philippine Competition Commission slapped it with another P9-million fine for failure to fully refund its customers more than three years after the PCC first ordered the reimbursement. The PCC first ordered Grab to refund P25.45-million to riders in 2019 and issued a second order in December of the same year. The agency then issued a third refund order in October 2020 for failure to deliver on the price monitoring commitment of the foreign-owned ride hailing service.

The PCC in 2022 told Grab to immediately release the remaining P19.3 million in refund to passengers after finding the ride-hailing app’s low disbursement of the refunds from previous fines.

After reviewing the compliance reports for previous penalties, the PCC found that just 24.1 percent of the total refund has been claimed from Grab by eligible passengers as of June 15, 2021, or P6.15 million out of the total P25.45-million penalty required by the PCC to be returned to Grab users.

The latest fine consists of P6 million for its alleged violation of the three separate orders issued by the PCC and P3 million for providing incorrect and misleading information in the compliance reports that the company submitted on the refund orders.

The latest penalties are on top of the over P63 million in fines the PCC imposed on Grab for violation of orders from the anti-trust body following its acquisition of Uber way back in 2018.

Grab did not take the latest penalties lightly.

“... we are surprised at PCC’s decision to fine us― given that we’ve been proactively engaging with them for over a year with proposals for alternative mechanisms to disburse the remaining administrative fees,” said Grab in a statement. The company added it would evaluate legal options over the additional P9million fine.

Grab should tread the industry carefully after virtually creating a monopoly in the Philippines and giving the Filipino riding public little option in the ride-hailing service. The domination of one industry sector invites regulatory scrutiny and carries a price.

E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com

watch negative” owing to the standoff.

The announcement raised the possibility of a first downgrade since another ratings agency, S&P Global, did so during a similar standoff in 2011.

But there is still plenty of rancor on Capitol Hill, with some Republicans even questioning whether the United States is even likely to default at all, despite warnings about the potential economic chaos it would cause.

Meanwhile, Democratic minority leader Hakeem Jeffries said Republicans had abandoned their jobs in Washington to go on holiday.

“And these Republicans, they’re going to say that Joe Biden refused to sit down with them,” he added.

Still, the broad consensus is for the

borrowing limit to eventually be raised at the 11th hour, after a period of brinkmanship.

Wall Street had a mixed Thursday, with the Nasdaq and S&P 500 surging higher thanks to a rally in tech firms fueled by a blockbuster sales forecast from chip giant Nvidia.

And Asian markets mostly rose on Friday.

Tokyo led the way thanks to a weaker yen and softer inflation that had traders betting the Bank of Japan would not tighten monetary policy any time soon. The dollar on Thursday broke past 140 yen for the first time since November, with strong US data fanning expectations the Federal Reserve will hike interest rates again next month.With AFP

Biden vows ‘no default’ on US debt even as lawmakers go on 10-day break

WASHINGTON, USA—President Joe Biden declared Thursday the United States would avoid a disastrous credit default even as lawmakers went on a 10-day break without a deal on raising the nation’s borrowing limit to keep paying the bills.

There are seven days until June 1 —the earliest possible point when the government estimates it could run out of money to service its debts—and missed loan repayments would likely spark a recession, roiling world markets.

But members of the House of Representatives began hitting the road for the Memorial Day recess after their final vote Thursday morning and are not due to return until June 4.

“There will be no default,” Biden said at the White House, adding that his negotiations with Republican Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who leads the narrow majority in the House of Representatives, had been “productive.”

But Democratic minority leader Hakeem Jeffries slammed the Republicans from the House floor, accusing them of having abandoned their jobs in Washington to “risk a dangerous default in a crisis that they’ve created.”

“And these Republicans, they’re go-

ing to say that Joe Biden refused to sit down with them,” he added. “That’s a fake narrative that they’ve continued to try to put into the public domain.”

House Republicans are demanding cuts of up to $130 billion, with spending next year capped to 2022 levels, in return for their votes to raise the borrowing cap.

They also want tightened work requirements for benefits claimants and a clawback of unspent pandemic aid dollars.

Military readiness

Democrats reject the proposed cuts and want the Republicans to sign off on a no-strings-attached hike, as they have dozens of times in the past.

Economists have spent months raising the prospect of economic catastrophe should the government default and top military brass added their own dire prognosis Thursday, warning that the crisis would have a “significant negative impact” on troops.

“Readiness clearly would be impacted. So our large-scale exercises that we do at various training centers would probably either slow down or come to a halt in many, many cases,” Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters. AFP

BUSINESS

By Darwin G. Amojelar

DITO Telecommunity Corp., a joint venture of Davao-based businessman Dennis Uy and China Telecom, said Friday it renewed its $1.175-billion bridge facility provided by Bank of China and China Minsheng Banking Corp. Ltd. to finance expansion plans.

“This bridge facility is to be repaid and absorbed via a $3.9-billion project finance long-term facility currently being finalized by DITO Tel’s senior management, with target closing within the year,” DITO CME Holdings Corp. said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock

Exchange. DITO CME owns 53.70 percent of DITO Telecommunity. The company earlier said capital expenditures for 2023 would amount to P27 billion, lower than P50 billion it spent last year.

PH secures $130-m loan

from JICA for MRT 3 rehab

FINANCE Secretary Benjamin Diokno signed on Friday the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 Rehabilitation Project loan agreement with Japan International Cooperation Agency, represented by Chief Representative in the Philippines Sakamoto Takema, at the Department of Finance office in Manila.

The rehabilitation project was originally approved by the National Economic and Development Authority board on Aug. 22, 2018 with the aim of improving the safety and service of the MRT 3—a 16.9-kilometer mass rail transit system with 13 stations along EDSA Corridor from North Ave. in Quezon City to Taft Ave. in Pasay City.

The rehabilitation includes provisions for capacity including rolling stock, rail tracks, signaling system, power supply system, overhead catenary system, communications system and depot and station equipment.

The 17.4-billion-yen or $130-million supplemental loan for the MRT 3 was approved by the NEDA board on Feb. 2, 2023 to finance the increase in the total project cost amounting to P29.6 billion, following the additional scope of work submitted by the Department of Transportation.

Colliers: Work flexibility key to reducing attrition

PROFESSIONAL services and investment management company Colliers said flexibility in the workplace is key to minimizing attrition risk.

Citing Mercer’s 2022-2023 Global Talent Trends report, Colliers associate director of office services-tenant representation Mitzi Blancaflor said seven of 10 employees in the Philippines believe that not being able to work remotely or hybrid permanently is a deal-breaker when considering whether to join or stay with an organization.

The study said 74 percent of companies surveyed are providing flexible working option, significantly higher than Asia’s 50 percent and the global average of 56 percent. Companies are also implementing compensation adjustments, mental health initiatives and learning and development programs to improve their employee’s overall well-being.

Collier said various companies have taken creative steps to address the roadblocks to their return-to-office initiatives.

Othel V. Campos

Investment ‘scammers’ face life imprisonment

THE Securities and Exchange Commission said Friday it secured the conviction of investment scheme suspects involved in Tagum City-based Rigen Wellness Product Marketing.

It said Tagum City Regional Trial Court Branch 2 sentenced Rico John Colorines Garcia and King Paul Bryan, chief executive officer and auditor of Rigen Marketing, respectively, to life imprisonment after being found guilty of syndicated estafa in two criminal cases dated April 11 and May 2. They were also ordered to pay actual damages totaling P2.01 million and moral damages amounting to P120,000, plus an interest of 6 percent per annum.

Their co-accused Rosenda Colorines Garcia, Christine Palijo, Romen Samuel Wabina and Jemeilyn Tacay remain at large. The cases stemmed from the complaints of two individuals who were enticed to invest in Rigen Marketing, after it allegedly promised income returns of up to 400 percent within a span of 30 days. Rigen Marketing claimed that profits were generated from investments in cryptocurrency and foreign exchange trading.

“It has been held that where one states that the future profits or income of an enterprise shall be a certain sum, but he actually knows there will be none, or that they will be less than he represents, the statements constitute an actionable fraud where the hearer believes him and relies on the statement to his injury,” the court said.

Jenniffer B. Austria

It invested over P200 billion for the initial rollout of its infrastructure and other operating expenses as part of its commitment to spend P257 billion over a five-year period to achieve 55 megabits per second of internet speed, covering 84 percent of the population.

Dito Tel signed in 2021 a P5.16billion advance agreement with China Telecom International Investment Private Ltd. to fund its operating expenditures and working capital requirements.

The company also signed another P5.22-billion advance agreement with CTIIPL last year to fund its operating expenditures and working capital requirements. As of end-December 2022,

P4.36 billion was drawn.

DITO Tel reduced its net loss by 90 percent in the first quarter to P709 million from P6.83 billion in the same period in 2022.

The company reported P2.341 billion in revenues in the quarter, up 76 percent year-on-year on strong increase in subscribers to about 16 million as of the end of the first quarter.

“We remain steadfast to our investment in DITO Telecommunity with its continued growth trajectory and expanding relevance as a digital enabler to the Philippine market,” DITO CME president Eric Alberto said earlier.

“We are confident that this will con-

DITO Tel expects to secure $3.9-b financing IN BRIEF

tinue as DITO Telecommunity continues to expand its network with commitments to increase population coverage to 80 percent this year and 84 percent by 2024,” he said.

DITO Telecommunity passed its third technical audit conducted on July 8, 2022.

The audit showed that the company reached population coverage of 72.39 percent, surpassing the commitment of 70.01 percent.

DITO Tel also continued to generate minimum average broadband speed of 71.77 Mbps for 4G and 801.19 Mbps for 5G, exceeding the minimum average 55 Mbps commitment.

Metro Retail’s profit grew 80% to P60m in Q1

By Jenniffer B. Austria

METRO Retail Stores Group Inc., a leading retail company based in the Visayas, reported an 80.2-percent yearon-year increase in first-quarter net income as it continued to implement efficiency initiatives.

ABOITIZ-DOLE TIEUP. The Aboitiz Group and the Department of Labor and Employment sign a memorandum of understanding in support of the DOLE JobStart Philippines program. Joining the signing ceremony are (from left) DOLE

Undersecretary Carmela Torres, DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma, Aboitiz Group president and chief executive Sabin Aboitiz and AEV chief external affairs officer David Jude Sta. Ana. The Aboitiz Group was identified by DOLE as a strategic partner in the implementation of their JobStart Philippines program, which aims to shorten the job search period of young Filipinos who are not in education, employment or training by providing them with career coaching, life skills and technical training and paid internships with major employers.

Diokno: PH is ideal investment destination for European firms

By Julito G. Rada

FINANCE Secretary Benjamin

Diokno told European businessmen

the Philippines is an ideal investment destination following the structural reforms implemented in recent years to attract more foreign direct investments.

The European-Philippine Business

Dialog on May 25, 2023 at the Dusit

Thani Manila brought together government officials, business leaders and experts to discuss the country’s economic health and investment climate and share insights on how to forge stronger economic ties between the Philippines and the European Union.

Diokno outlined the country’s latest accomplishments and policies with hopes to attract European trade and investment to further drive the Philippines’ regional and global competitiveness as an investment destination.

He said these included the amendments to the Public Service Act, Foreign Investments Act and Retail

Trade Liberalization Act, along with the landmark Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises law.

Diokno said that on May 22, Fitch Ratings affirmed the country’s ‘BBB’ credit rating and revised its outlook to stable.

“This reflects strong investor confidence in the Philippines’ ability to honor its financial commitments while remaining resilient to external shocks,” Diokno said.

He said to create a favorable investment climate in the Philippines, the government passed structural reforms that create an enabling policy environment for public-private partnerships.

These include the Build-OperateTransfer Law to strengthen the financial viability and bankability of PPP projects; the improved Investment Coordination Committee guidelines to ensure faster processing and approval of PPPs; the new joint venture guidelines to strengthen checks and balances; and the pending PPP Act to promote

competition and protect public interest.

“We are expecting an influx of investments from the implementation of structural reforms we passed in recent years,” he said.

The Philippines is now also part of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership which is the world’s largest trade agreement to improve market access and promote inclusive regional economic policies, according to Diokno.

Diokno also expressed desire to resume negotiations with the EU as the country’s major trade and investment partner.

“Geo-economic fragmentation and trade protectionism will only burden an already struggling global economy. That said, now is the time for us to resume the Philippines-European Union Free Trade Agreement negotiations,” he said.

The Philippines has been enjoying greater market access to the EU that led to a significant increase in exports since its successful application to the Generalized Scheme of PreferencesPlus in 2014.

PSE INDEX CLOSING

Friday, May 26, 2023

6,530.20

UKPound1.23270068.9277

Hong KongDollar0.1276367.1369

SwitzerlandFranc1.10411861.7379

CanadaDollar0.73313840.9941

SingaporeDollar0.73860741.2999

AustraliaDollar0.65060036.3789

BahrainDinar2.652872148.3380

FPH ACQUISITION. First Philippine Holdings Corp., one of the country’s biggest conglomerates, completes its acquisition of The Medical Services of America (Philippines) Inc. Leading the signing of the deed of absolute assignment are FPH president and chief operating officer Francis Giles Puno (center) and MSA-Philippines general manager Aurora Dereja (second from right). With them are (from left) FPH senior vice president and head of corporate planning Jose Valentin Pantangco Jr., FPH senior vice president Joaquin Quintos IV and MSA-Philippines chief accountant and Hilario V. Manongtong. The acquisition is expected to provide FPH a platform to add new service offerings to what MSA-Philippines offers in the healthcare industry. Along with Asian Eye Institute Inc. and Pi Health Inc., FPH aims to create services to improve the ecosystem of healthcare providers in the country and, ultimately, the health and wellness of the Filipino population.

EuroEuro 1.07290059.9923

Korea Won 0.0007520.0420

ChinaYuan0.1412537.8983

IndiaRupee0.0120870.6759

MalaysiaRinggit0.21631012.0952

New Zealand Dollar 0.60620033.8963

TaiwanDollar0.0325031.8174

DBP says net income jumped 17% to P1.23b in first quarter, vows to sustain growth trajectory

STATE-OWNED Development Bank of the Philippines’ net income jumped 17 percent to P1.23 billion in the first three months from P1.05 billion in the same period last year, a top executive said Friday.

DBP president and chief executive Michael de Jesus said higher interest income from expanded lending activities to critical sectors of the economy as a result of increased economic activity fueled the double-digit growth in its bottomline.

“DBP’s resurgent financial perfor-

mance in 2023 is an attestation of its stability as a government financial institution,” de Jesus said. “We shall continue to build on this growth trajectory and carry on our mandate of being a catalyst of growth in areas where economic activities are limited and most needed,” he said.

DBP is the eighth largest bank in the country in terms of assets and remains a relevant and reliable partner of the national government in serving the financing needs of strategic and critical

economic sectors, particularly infrastructure and logistics, micro, small and medium enterprises, social services and the environment.

De Jesus said DBP maintained its strong fiscal position, registering a 50-percent increase from its first-quarter net income target of P820 million with gross loan portfolio reaching P547 billion, up by 2 percent from P539 billion recorded in the same period in 2022. He said that as of end-March this year, loans for infrastructure and logis-

tics totaled P285.235 billion, while the outstanding portfolio for social infrastructure and community development amounted to P107.842 billion.

“Bulk of our releases or about 55.2 percent of the bank’s loan portfolio were released to bankroll infrastructure development initiatives in support of the national government’s ‘Build Better More’ program, majority of which are located in the National Capital Region, Central Visayas, Davao and Central Luzon,” de Jesus said.

MRSGI said in a disclosure to the stock exchange first-quarter profit reached P60 million, up from P33.3 million in the same period last year.

Revenues, however, dipped 2.3 percent to P8.3 billion from P8.5 billion in the first quarter of 2022 as store sales also went down by 4.6 percent.

“The decrease was due to bulk wholesale transactions in 2022 that had beefed up first-quarter sales last year,” MRSGI said.

It said that excluding these bulk transactions, sales for the first quarter this year posted a double-digit increase of 12 percent.

Supermarket business accounted for 55 percent of revenues, followed by hypermarket at 23 percent and department store at 22 percent.

The company was operating 60 stores as of end-March 2023, including 39 in the Visayas, 11 in Luzon and 10 in the National Capital Region.

MRSGI’s blended gross margin improved by 290 basis points to 21.9 percent in the first quarter from 19 percent a year ago. This was attributable to the higher share to business of general merchandise that generates better margins than food retail.

The company said it continued to implement efficiency initiatives even as operating expenses increased 13.8 percent amid higher rent and utilities expenses and the additional stores that opened in April last year.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

FIRST Gen Corp. of the Lopez Group said Friday subsidiary Energy Development Corp. will no longer develop geothermal activities in Peru over political and market uncertainties.

First Gen said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange the board of directors and stockholders of Energy Development Corporation Peru S.A.C., a subsidiary of EDC, “decided to no longer pursue exploration and development activities in Peru due to political and market factors.”

EDC incorporated the Peru subsidiary on July 17, 2012 in Lima, Peru as a 70-percent owned subsidiary of EDC Geotermica S.A.C. (Peru).

Its main purpose is to generate, transmit and/or distribute energy derived from any and all forms, types and kinds of energy sources for lighting and power purposes and wholeselling the electric power to power corporations, public electric utilities and electric cooperatives. Energy Development Corporation Peru S.A.C. on Jan. 3, 2014 became a 100-percent indirectly owned subsidiary by the parent company through the acquisition of Hot Rock Entities. EDC, the country’s biggest geothermal company, has been developing geothermal projects in Peru, Indonesia, Taiwan and Chile as part of its expansion projects.

EDC earlier said that although the COVID situation and the accompanying travel restrictions had caused some delays in its activities, particularly in Indonesia and Taiwan, the company remained keen on those markets.

EDC stops Peru geothermal projects over uncertainties

Constantino rallies past Uy, takes PH Masters’ golf title

HARMIE Constantino crowned herself the first ICTSI Villamor Philippine Ladies Masters champion in almost the same fashion that marked her previous victory at Luisita, overhauling a big deficit and winning by two over Chihiro Ikeda at the Villamor Golf Club on Friday.

And Constantino needed just a run of pars in the last five holes and a closing 74 to nail the hotly-disputed championship on a 221 total worth P120,000 as two-day leader Daniella Uy floundered at the finish again, making three straight double bogeys from No. 15 and limping with an 83, squandering a two-stroke lead in the stretch and winding up joint third instead.

Ikeda put in the day’s best 73 in an earlier flight to snatch runner-up honors at 223 and the P85,000 prize with erstwhile contender Korean Seoyun Kim likewise faltering at the finish with three straight bogeys for a 78 for a share of third with Uy at 226. They each received P66,000.

“I just stuck to and tried to execute my game plan – hit the fairways and make the putts,” said Constantino, who battled back from four strokes down and tied Uy after 10 holes to set the stage for another pressure-packed finish the way the former snatched the Luisita leg crown two weeks ago after rallying from as many as six strokes down in the final round.

But Uy rode on a birdie-bogey swing on No. 13 to regain a two-shot lead, that,

however, proved short-lived as she yielded strokes after strokes in a stretch where she should’ve kept them.

Mishits and missed putts on the fast Villamor surface with tough pin placements led to double bogeys from No. 15, 16 and 17 and Uy found herself tumbling from the top and losing by an even wider margin – five – after working her way up with gutsy 70 and 73 in the first two days of the inaugural P1 million championship.

As Uy bogeyed the first three holes and dropped another stroke on No. 6 for a birdie-less 40, Constantino inched closer with a frontside 37 then survived an exacting backside finish with a slew of pars against a lone mishap against the former’s backside 43 marked by just one birdie.

“It was not as perfect as I had wanted it to be but I think I played okay. I played as steady as I possibly could,” said Constantino, whose par-saving putt from 12 feet on the 54th hole was greeted with jubilation from the home fans.

“It’s actually not the (Villamor) charm,” said Constantino after reigning again at the military layout she calls home after foiling top amateur Rianne Malixi, also in the first Match Play Invitational, in sudden death last November. “Nadadaan lang siguro sa mga prayers ng mga tao dito sa Villamor, They always pray for me, they always want me to win.”

Gomez returns as PH’s chef de mission in Asiad

By Peter Atencio

ORMOC City Rep. and fencing

chief Richard Gomez is returning as the chef de mission of Team Philippines in the Asian Games, to be held in Hangzhou, China in September.

Asian Games, on Thursday swapped positions with sports medicine specialist, Dr. Raul Canlas, who heads the national body for surfing. Canlas will now take care of the national delegation being formed for the ANOC World Beach Games in Bali, Indonesia.

“Nagpalit kasi kami ni Dr. Canlas. More athletes have qualified for surf ing in the World Beach Games,” said Gomez during Thursday’s General Assembly

of the Philippine Olympic Committee at the East Ocean Palace Restaurant in Parañaque.

From 410 athletes, Gomez will now screen a total of 426 names of entries for the quadrennial meet, slated from September 23 to October 8 later this year.

Philippine Olympic Committee president Rep. Abraham Tolentino said Canlas was concerned over the numbers athletes who could possibly qualify in surfing in the World Beach Games.

Ebrahim cites role of education, sports in region’s development

By Nash B. Maulana

COTABATO CITY—Bangsamoro

Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Al Hadj

Murad Ebrahim underscored Thursday the role of education and sports in the region’s continuing development.

Ebrahim welcomed sports delegates and competing teams for the weeklong Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Athletic Association at the Cotabato State University.

He put emphasis on the BARMM government’s investment in its priority appropriations of regional expenditures program for the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education in 2023.

MBHTE Minister Mohagher Iqbal said part of the region’s overall preparation for BARMMAA 2023 were the upgrading, Grandstand, sports facilities, including the 400-meter Track-and-Field oblong of the Cotabato National High School which has been assumed by CSU;

the renovation of the 25 m x 10 m swimming pool;; four comfort rooms and fences of sports facilities fence. Officials said beyond the sports com-

Van der Valk ties Rates on last-hole swing

JOENARD Rates might need some help from above as he sets out for a final round shootout with Guido van der Valk in the ICTSI Villamor Philippine Masters.

Guido van der Valk turned what he deemed was a flawed chip shot into a resounding birdie feat at the finish, saving a 75 and catching Joenard Rates at the helm after three rounds of mental play in the ICTSI Villamor Philippine Masters at the Villamor Golf Club yesterday.

Head bowed, Van der Valk dropped both arms to his knees in frustration after chipping way past the hole on the par-5 No. 18 but the Dutchman returned a clutch 10-footer for birdie to seize a share of the lead as Rates fumbled with his par-putt bid from shorter distance for a 77 marred by a double bogey on No. 17.

On a day when the chief contenders battled tough pin placements and tricky surface and ended up with soaring

scores, van der Valk tied Rates at 212 and Marvin Dumandan put himself in title contention in a long while after squeezing out a 73 to join Jhonnel Ababa, who carded a 74, at 214.

Fidel Concepcion fired one of the day’s three best scores of 70 to move to joint fifth at 216 with Gerald Rosales and Reymon Jaraula, who matched par72s, and Keanu Jahns, who drew level with Rates with a solid frontside 33 but fell with a thud with an uncharacteristic backside 45 for a 78.

After birdying No. 9 from long range to tie the two-day leader, the Fil-German went wild on his driving and tee-shots, limping with a triple-bogey 7 on No. 10, bogeying Nos. 12 and 16, yielding two strokes on the par-3 17th, and holing out with another double-bogey on the closing par-5 hole.

But four strokes behind, Jahns re-

mained in the hunt for a Philippine Golf Tour breakthrough although he will need a lot of work off the mound to revive his title hopes in the P2.5 million championship put up by ICTSI. While Jahns struggled with his long game, van der Valk found the greens a lot tougher, flubbing par putts on Nos. 4, 5 and 7 to fall four strokes off Rates, who traded two birdies against the same number of bogeys for a 36, at the turn.

“I struggled with the speed of the greens today, I don’t know why,” said van der Valk, who bounced back from a rare missed cut stint at Luisita with a clear title shot in the very same PH Masters tournament he yielded to Jerson Balasabas in sudden death in 2018. “But definitely tomorrow (today), I have the chance to win because I wasted too many shots (yesterday).”

After yielding just three bogeys in the

petition are the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie that it develops among the region’s youths of different faiths and persuasions in life. Some sports platforms have even hosted healthy competition between erstwhile adversary groups: local units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and former combatants of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

Ebrahim said part of the region’s educational fund builds a fruitful collaboration with the Cotabato State University in upgrading its learning and sports facilities.

Iqbal said the upgrading of the CSU facilities is covered by a Memorandum of Agreement between the MBHTE and the state university.

An unconfirmed report said sepak takraw (sepak takraw), is included in the array of BARMAA sports events. Sepaktakraw, also called kick volleyball, is a team sport played with a ball made of rattan or synthetic plastic between two teams of two.

“Maraming puwedeng magkaqualify sa surfing, and besides, he is busy with his job as a doctor,” said Tolentino.

The 2023 World Beach Games is set from Aug. 5 to 12 in Bali.

Gomez is reviewing the number of submitted entries, including those who have won 58 gold medals and 85 silvers in the recent 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

The list includes 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.

When Gomez was the CDM in 2018, the Philippines secured four golds, 2 silvers and 15 bronze medals.

“We aim to duplicate or even surpass the performance of the last Asian Games,” said Gomez.

Canlas said two long board specialists Jay-R Esquivel and Aping Agudo, have intially qualified for the World Beach Games. And he is expecting six more to make it.

THE national congress and election of members of the board of trustees of the Philippine Swimming Inc. has been moved back by a week to June 8.

Originally scheduled for June 15, the World Aquatics-ordered exercise will be attended by regional representatives and nominees of the PSI starting at 11 a.m. at the East Ocea Palace Restaurant in Parañaque City.

The new schedule of the congress and election was agreed upon during Thursday’s hybrid meeting among regional representatives of the federation, according to Atty. Wharton Chan.

“The regional representatives agreed to move the exercise to an earlier date—and it will be doe face-toface,” said Wharton, a member of the Philippine Olympic Committee-designated electoral committee chaired by POC secretary-general Atty. Edwin Gastanes with Atty. Avelino Sumagui and Atty. Marcus Antonius Andaya as the other members.

More than 300 clubs or groups registered as PSI members with 100 of them joining Thursday’s meeting, according to Chan. He expects more to attend the June 8 exercise.

To be elected are 10 members of the board of trustees based on geographical sector plus one member from among the representatives of diving, open water swimming, water polo and synchronized (artistic) swimming for a total of 11 trustees.

The geographical sector covers two each from the Area 1 (National Capital Region), Area 2 (Regions 1, 2, 3 and Cordillera Autonomous Region), Area 3 (Regions 4-A, 4-B and 5), Area 4 (Regions 6, 7 and 8) and Area 5 (Regions 9, 10, 11, 12, CARAGA Region and Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao).

Harmie Constantino displays her championship trophy. Manny Marcelo

PSI national congress, election on June 8

first two days, the Dutchman made five in moving day but still made it to the top with Rates, who hobbled with two bogeys and a double bogey in the last four holes and blew a three-stroke lead.

2018 Asian Games CDM Richard Gomez with gold winners Lois Kaye Go, Bianca Pagdanganan and Yuka Saso

Gomez, who was also the head delegation of the PH contingent at the 2018 Jakarta-Palembang

Three Minorettes are shown during the opening parade.

Guido van der Valk plans his strategy. Manny Marcelo

HOME/DESIGN

Business, leisure hub in Central Luzon

WITH big-scale events in full swing once again, Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga is ready to play host to various MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events with essential infrastructures, from transportation to recreational facilities, already in place to accommodate local and international guests. Filinvest Mimosa+ Leisure City is the leading MICE destination in Central Luzon that provides amenities to cater to various business events.

At the heart of the property is Quest Plus Conference Center Clark which received the 2021 Sports Tourism Awards Hotel of the Year for hosting the PBA & Asian Cup

Qualifiers’ bubble in 2020 and 2021.

It offers the Magellan Ballroom, a 2022 ASEAN MICE Venues Tourism Awardee that can accommodate up to 550 guests. Aside from the renowned venue, Quest Plus Conference Center Clark also offers 304 rooms and luxurious grand villas, four multiple meeting rooms, and two Hilltop Convention Rooms.

The newly-furbished Mimosa Plus Golf Course Clubhouse has also added amenities such as the Mimosa Plus Golf simulators to help golfers practice their swing. After which, they can proceed to the recently opened Baker J Café, the new go-to café for French cuisine.

CliftonResort dishes out ultimate Tagaytay experience

PROPERTY developer, Citi Global Realty & Development, Inc. is redesigning its newest condotel in Tagaytay to provide its clients an enhanced ‘lookand-feel’ of the property, and improve unit owners’ overall convenience.

The company collaborated with topnotch designers to identify key design elements in line with its goal of giving Tagaytay Clifton Resort Suites (TCRS), a vital ‘make over’.

“The changes we will make at TCRS will be critical, but after all the redesign work, it will be a gorgeous condotel that unit owners would love to spend quality time and create memories in with their family,” promised Beth To, Citi Global’s Managing Director.

New buildings, better road network

To address industry demand for larger unit cuts, Citi Global decreased the number of TCRS’ buildings from the previous 10 to 8, but added two penthouse floors, from 11th to 12th floors with larger floor areas. The number of building floors also increased from the previous 8 to 12.

“Industry research shows that due to the pandemic, there are growing families or young professionals who want to install a

P.A. PROPERTIES PARTNERS WITH HANKYU HANSHIN.

Laguna-based property developer P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation (P.A. Properties) and Japanese property developer Hankyu Hanshin Properties Corporation (HHPC) recently reinforced their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to spur more property developments in Laguna, Pampanga. This is not the first time that P.A. Properties banded together with the Osaka-based property developer. The two companies inked their first deal back in 2017. The companies expanded their developments through a joint venture agreement that built the Idesia communities. Projects stemming from the partnership between the two companies include properties in Dasmariñas (Idesia Dasmariñas, Idesia Heights), Lipa (Idesia Lipa), and Cabuyao (Idesia Cabuyao). At the MOU signing were (from left to right): P.A. Properties Vice Chairman Jonathan G. Lu, HHPC Executive Officer Masahiko Toda, and P.A. Properties Chairman Romarico T. Alvarez

home office,” To explained. “A unit with ample storage space or additional rooms will be of great value to them.”

The increased number of prospective unit owners at TCRS will have a ripple effect on the number of cars that will traverse the property. In anticipation of this, Citi Global redesigned the flow of the traffic network within the premises. From the single roundabout on the right side of the property, another smaller roundabout will be added on the left side to improve the traffic flow. It also has a gradual slope towards the main road instead of the previous abrupt slope design, ensuring a safe drive for unit owners in and out of the property. The spacing between buildings also allows a smoother drive from one building to another, preventing possible

traffic congestion and incursions.

Comfortable condo living

One of the most desired features in condominiums are more communal areas and landscapes. Citi Global redesigned the location of TCRS’ clubhouse, moving it from the middle of the property to the west end, to provide unit owners a better view of the Batangas landscape.

Function and conference rooms were also added to accommodate guests for family gatherings, work retreats, and special occasions, adding to its value when it eventually runs as a condotel.

TCRS’ wider building footprint design also features amenities to provide unit owners with a comfortable

Siena Towers eyes Marikina as premier location

HORIZON Land Property Development Corp., a subsidiary of Federal Land Inc., has capitalized on the charming features of Marikina City to build its third project in the city, Siena Towers. Located along Marquinton Drive less than 50 meters from Sumulong Highway, Siena Towers is a high-rise residential condominium that offers comfortable living spaces in one- and two-bedroom unit variations. Siena Towers’ studio unit sized at ±23 sq.m. and onebedroom unit, ranging from ±29 sq.m. to 39.50 sq.m., is ideal for practical go-getters seeking a life of independence who want their own space to grow in. Units ranging from ±48 sq.m. to 72.50 sq.m., can be home to the family’s life essentials with extra space to grow.

lifestyle. It will have an infinity pool, a lap pool, a fitness and wellness gym and ample parking space. The facility is PWD-inclusive in compliance with the Philippine Accessibility Law (BP 344). The project’s new human-centered design is offering unit owners more open spaces for better airflow, allowing owners to enjoy the lush greenery and fresh air. It also clears more space for foot and bicycle traffic.

“All the new design elements that Citi Global is implementing on TCRS comply with the building and property development regulations of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DSHUD),” to assured.

Set to launch in the second quarter of this year, Siena TowersTower Two offers a new opportunity for more people to own a piece of this property in Marikina City. Interested buyers can set their eyes on Tower Two, which will stand 22 stories high and offer 297 units in one- and two-bedroom variations.

A DELIGHTFUL TOUCH. American Standard recently launched e-Lite, an integrated shower toilet with thoughtfully designed features. Traditional toilets are usually bulky in design, hard to clean, require physical contact with the seat cover and flush lever, and cause uncomfortable seating. The e-Lite shower toilet has an auto-open seat made with the highest level of antibacterial material certified by Society of Industrial Technology for Antimicrobial Articles (SIAA). It also comes with antibacterial shower nozzles that are sterilized by UV rays after every use. An auto-flushing feature ensures that users do not need to touch the flush button. The remote control can be placed within reach while the one-touch cleansing mode can be activated through the designed

side panel. The integrated shower toilet has a built-in soft night light to guide users in the middle of the night comfortably. It ensures constant warm water throughout their washing routine. A mini cistern tank which acts as a mini reservoir stores water is integrated inside the toilet. This enhances the flushing performance for homes with low water pressure conditions. It also comes with a powerful flush with a mini 0.08MPa dynamic pressure. Likewise, its siphon jet flushing creates a 360 swirling effect around the bowl like a whirlpool effect, and an extra jet at the bowl pushes the waste further down into the pipes so every corner of the toilet bowl is cleansed of dirt and bacteria. To know more about the American Standard, visit https:// www.americanstandard.ph/.

THE Philippine Rallycross Series

(PHRX) has kicked off the opening leg of the 2023 Philippine Rally at the New Clark City in Capas,Tarlac today.

Five years following the group’s first rally, the 2018 Philippine Rally in Pampanga, the racing action will take place complete with 12 special stages on the dirt roads of Capas.

The next level

The PHRX has been known for organizing its dirt trial series that has been running for eight racing calendars now, since its maiden season in 2015. The main objective of the PHRX is to revive rally racing in the country. Rally was the prevailing motorsport discipline in the Philippines until it lost its glimmer in the early 2000s.

“We want nothing but to keep the sport alive. PHRX’s passion is rooted from the love of rallying. It also comes from a promise I made with the late Jun Espino to continue reviving the sport,” said PHRX Race Director Olson Camacho.

Jun Espino is one of the Philippine motorsport legends who was first known as one of the most talented rally navigators and for his most recent work as a motorsports manager for the Automobile Association Philippines.

“Malayo pa pero malayu-layo na din (A lot still has to be made, but what is important is that we have

2023 Philippine Rally flags off this weekend

made progress). Right now, what we consider as PHRX’s little wins are the rally drivers we inspired to join into the sport,” Camacho furthered.

PHRX has been committed to this goal and believes that its dirt trial series will serve as a forming ground to develop top notch rally drivers. With this, experienced dirt drivers’ next level is the Philippine Rally.

Bigger and more exhilarating

Four seasons following the Philippine

Rallycross Series, the PHRX inaugurated the first Philippine Rally held in Floridablanca, Pampanga in December 2018. Now, the 2023 Philippine Rally is the latest edition of the PHRX rally series. Scheduled for 12 special stages, the rally will cover a total distance of over 60-kms which consists of various surfaces of gravel, dirt, and mud.

Like the rallies of old, the 2023 Philippine Rally is more than just speed. As per PHRX, the race is a test

CHERY Auto PH elated with high sales growth of Tiggo 5X, Tiggo 8 PRO models

THANKS to a combination of factors led by the growing public awareness about the CHERY brand and its stylish, featurepacked line of crossovers or sport utility vehicles, sales of key models from one of the country’s fastest-growing automotive brands rocketed by as much as 85 percent in the first quarter of 2023 compared to the same period last year.

The sales growth for two of CHERY’s important models far outpaces the total industry growth, which averaged 35 percent over the course of last year. It also brings CHERY Auto Philippines on track for achieving, or even surpassing, its sales targets for 2023.

The strong growth reflects the high demand for the company’s subcompact Tiggo 5X, which sold a total of 331 units in the first quarter of 2023 for a 75 percent growth compared to last year. Meanwhile, CHERY’s top-of-the-line midsize 7-seater, the Tiggo 8 PRO which sold a total of 128 units boasted even higher growth of 86% percent from just 69 units same period last year.

The expected robust growth also reflects CHERY’s over 20 years of independent innovation, having established no less than five global R&D centers employing over 7,000 technology-driven team members responsible for over 14,000 patents. CHERY is the leading Chinese company in developing technology through independent R&D.

Further complementing CHERY’s momentum is the brand’s Summer Blazing

Tiggo Deals promo, which runs until June 30 and offers affordable and easy own deals such as all-in down payments as low as P28,888, monthly amortizations as low as P7,796, and savings as much as P130,000, depending on the vehicle model.

The Tiggo 5X fully loaded subcompact crossover (Luxury variant) boasts a sunroof, luxury leather seats, and an even more generous array of comfort and convenience features. Drive home a Tiggo 5X for a low down payment of P38,888, low monthly of P8,235, or cash savings of as much as P95,000. Continuously impressing new car buyers with its premium build quality and luxury car features is the midsize 7-seater SUV Tiggo 8 PRO. It is powered by a turbo 1.6-liter engine mated to a 7- speed DCT automatic transmission developing a strong

195hp and 290Nm of torque. It has a 12.3inch touchscreen info-tainment system with 8 speakers and over a dozen Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) to give you European luxury car levels of safety. The Tiggo 8 PRO 1.6 is available for a low down payment of P98,888, low monthly of P16,449, or cash discount of as much as P100,000.

Equally compelling reasons to buy a new CHERY is the brand’s industryleading Premium Preserv warranty and PMS program, highlighted by a 10-year/1 million-km engine warranty, 5- year general warranty, 3-year FREE roadside assistance, and a 3-year FREE preventive maintenance service (PMS). Tiggo 8 models have a 7-year bumper-to-bumper warranty, and 3- year FREE roadside assistance and PMS.

Emkoo center of attraction as GAC Motors celebrates 5th year

GAC Motor Philippines is pleased to announce new retail pricing for the GAC EMKOO as a gesture of gratitude to its valued customers in celebration of the brand’s fifth year in the country.

The new retail price of the GAC EMKOO will be PHP 1,498,000 for the top-of-the-line GL variant and P1,298,000 for the GE variant. The new retail price will also apply to customers who reserved the EMKOO in April when it was launched at the 2023 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS).

“GAC Motor has always been at the forefront of technological innovation to build cars that are high quality, exceptionally durable, and great to drive. The EMKOO embodies these principles, and our new retail pricing makes this remarkable vehicle even more accessible to a wider audience of Filipino customers who

want style, comfort, and technological advancements in a reliable SUV,” said Jun Cajayon, brand head of GAC Motor, Astara Philippines.

The EMKOO is an ultra-modern fiveseater compact SUV that impresses with its future-forward design and cutting-edge technologies, making it the most ideal vehicle for today’s generation.

The overall design of the EMKOO is bold, captivating, and futuristic. Inspired by Sci-Fi elements, the industrial aesthetic design is defined by sharp feature lines, angular edges and a dynamic stance that

distinct look and head-turning presence of the EMKOO. Start of EMKOO Retails through Expanded Dealer Network GAC Motor dealers across the country will hold special EMKOO launches and test drives on the following dates to herald the EMKOO’s arrival and start of retails: June 3 – Bacoor, Makati and Tarlac

June 10 – Cainta, E. Rodriguez, Pampanga and Quezon Avenue June 16 – Davao June 17 – Alabang, Manila Bay and Iloilo July 30 – Batangas City, Butuan, Cebu and Lipa City Within seven months since the brand’s relaunch in January, the company’s dealer network has been on hypergrowth, with the number of operational dealerships rapidly increasing from four to fifteen by end of July.

of strategy, endurance, and teamwork between drivers and their co-drivers. Strategy will come in keeping the car in good shape to endure all 60-kms of rally racing, and teamwork between the driver and navigator will play a huge role in each team’s end rally result.

Following this week’s action, the next round of the 2023 Philippine Rally is scheduled on July 29-30. For more information and updates on the

Embracing the EVs

IT WAS already raining “cats and dogs” outside that Wednesday afternoon after the ceremonial ribbon was finally cut and officials together with the huge number of guests then went inside the well-lighted showroom to start the longdelayed prepared program.

It was a very successful twin-launch of two of Willy Tee-Ten’s Kia dealership –Kia Marikina and Kia Otis Manila –held at the busy corner of UN Avenue and Otis in Pandacan. It was under the umbrella of the Autohub Group and these two new Kia showrooms is now Kia Philippines’ 43rd and 44th dealership, respectively.

To Willy Tee-Ten, president of Autohub Group, the return of Kia to his number of various car brands is very special as he reminded of his first Kia dealership in Jose Abad Santos Avenue, also in Manila.

The popularity of the brand in the country today plus its thrust and focus towards electrification could be a big factor for Willy to choose and get not one but two dealerships for his burgeoning Autohub Group. Willy is one true-believer that the country would turn to “electric vehicles” in the near future.

But he is not the only one who is seeing the “electrification” of the car industry sooner than expected. One other main man that night is Manny Aligada, the president of Kia Philippines, who said that they didn’t wink an eye in giving Willy two Kia dealerships at the same time.

“Opening not just one but two new dealerships is indeed a milestone for us. Under the experienced management of the Autohub Group, we are confident that Kia Otis and Kia Marikina will bring even more joy to our treasured customers. We look forward to a meaningful and fruitful partnership with the Autohub Group in the years to come,” Manny Aligada said during his speech.

Later on, when we caught Manny Aligada at the sideline, he gave us a good view of what Kia Philippines is

KIA Philippines, Autohub Group open Otis, Marikina branches

THE aggressive expansion of Kia Philippines has been further boosted by the opening of Kia Otis and Kia Marikina—both under the management of Willy Tee Ten’s Autohub Group. These dealerships are the 43rd and 44th Kia dealerships in the country. Both of these dealerships—which also showcase Kia’s new look— advance the reach of the Kia brand, and promise to bring the Kia experience closer to its valued customers.

Kia Otis and Kia Marikina will enhance the ownership journey by offering next-level service thanks to their very convenient locations and comfortable facilities. Its sales, after-sales, maintenance, and support services make sure that all customers’ needs are taken care of in a timely and professional manner. These two new dealerships are extremely strategic in their locations. Kia Otis, located in the heart of the bustling city of Manila, offers a convenient venue that is easily

Philippine Rally and PHRX, visit their Facebook page - ‘www.facebook.com/ philippinerallycross’.

The 2023 Philippine Rally has been made possible by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac municipality, Cleanfuel, Ravenol, Autoplus Sports, Isuzu Philippines Corporation, Accelera Tires, Method Race Wheels, Tyron, AC Delco, and Aguila Auto Glass.

accessible to those who live and work near Manila Bay and the Port Area. Meanwhile, Kia Marikina will cater to the growing population in the shoemaking capital of the Philippines and the sprawling urbanized eastern countryside.

The opening of Kia Otis and Kia Marikina espouses Kia’s tagline and its commitment to its loyal customers. “This event brings a Movement that Inspires closer to the people, and we are proud to welcome the Autohub Group into our growing family,” says Kia Philippines president Manny Aligada. “Opening not just one—but two—new dealerships is indeed a milestone for us. Under the experienced management of the Autohub Group, we are confident that Kia Otis and Kia Marikina will bring even more joy to our treasured customers.”

The Autohub Group has been the purveyor of some

going to now that they had already a whopping 44 dealerships in the country.

With the eye-catching Kia EV6 in one corner of the showroom that night (yes, Willy was able to borrow one in order to show it to his prospective guests and buyers), Aligada said that Kia Philippines is definitely “going electric” with the introduction of the very popular and award-winning Kia EV6 last February here in the country.

He said that Kia Philippines and some of its dealerships – four to be exact – are now investing “quite heavily” in order to accommodate the Kia EV6 that will herald the entry of the brand towards “electrification.” Aside from the usual charging station to be set up, there needs to be a special platform for the servicing of Kia EV6 to be added aside from that standard equipment being seen in the regular Kia dealerships.

“What we are putting up is a new ecosystem solely for the entry of the Kia EV6 here in the country,” according to Aligada. “There are lots to be considered when a dealership chooses to become part of the said ecosystem. Yes, it’s a little bit pricey but Kia Philippines is putting up part of the expenses.”

Aligada said that the Kia Philippines is getting a big boost from its mother company – the Ayala Group – especially in the setting up of infrastructure for the very important charging stations. “At this early, we have already 20 charging stations that were put up in various Ayala-owned venues where these Kia EV6s can go to.” And the Ayala Group’s vision of going zero-emission by 2030 is a big help too in enticing its own huge number of clients in going electric in the future.

With this, Kia Philippines has already shown its readiness in embracing the march to the EVs.

of the most desirable brands renowned throughout the entire world. With 24 years of experience in the automotive industry, Autohub Group continues to forge new partnerships. “Kia is very desirable, its model mix is very timely and we feel that it is a perfect fit for our growing portfolio of trusted car brands— while providing an array of automotive choices in all segments and fleet solutions to our customers,” says Autohub Group President Willy Tee Ten.

Kia Otis is located at 1120 Pres. Quirino Avenue Extension Brgy. 827 Zone 89, Paco, Manila while Kia Marikina is located along A. Bonifacio Avenue, Loyola Subdivision, Barangka, Marikina City.

For more information on Kia, visit the Kia Philippines’ website at Kia.com, like and follow Kia Philippines on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to its YouTube channel.

With

Puregold’s Tindahan ni Aling Puring brings brands to masses

WHILE makers of all consumer goods aspire to see their products lining the shelves of supermarkets and display racks at shopping malls, they also know that a reliable indicator of success is out there in the streets.

Small urban and rural communities are often considered the final frontier of brand distribution and recall, because patronage by the masses means a product has successfully turned into a cultural staple. But achieving this level of nationwide acceptance can be tricky, even for the most successful of brands.

Thankfully, Puregold’s Tindahan ng Aling Puring (TNAP) program bridges the gap between the brands and the masses through our neighborhood sari-sari stores.

Today, over 1.1 million sari-sari stores across the country have become fixtures in the everyday lives of Filipinos. Thus, if a brand can make it to the sari-sari stores, they can make it out there. And a direct connection to these sari-sari stores is precisely what Puregold can provide brands through the Tindahan ni Aling Puring program.

The program, which was designed to give bulk discounts and financial aid opportunities to sari-sari store owners, also has massive benefits for brands and suppliers. Through its seminars and mixers, among others, the TNAP program allows brands to directly connect with the over 800,000 TNAP members nationwide, including thousands of sarisari store owners.

One such event is the upcoming Tindahan ng Aling Puring Convention

which will be held this May 18, 19 & 20, where brands will be able to sell their fast-moving items at huge discounts; conduct daily seminars; give away freebies and host games while allowing them to network with eager business owners including sari-sari store operators. The convention will allow Puregold to engage with small to medium business owners and further widen their reach to sari-sari stores all across the country.

Vincent Co, president of Puregold Price Club, Inc., believes that their annual Sari-Sari Store Negosyo Convention is a way to further implement Tindahan ni Aling Puring’s mandate to foster relations between big brands and sari-sari stores.

“We’re proud and blessed to have grown the Aling Puring program to what it is today, and be able to help both big brands and thriving small business owners,” says Co. “At the end of the day, the success of Filipino business is the success of us all. And we’re gratified to keep holding this convention and make brands and sari-sari stories grow by developing mutually beneficial partnerships.”

Big FMCG companies such as Nestle, URC, Unilever, P&G, San Miguel, Monde Nissin, Century Pacific, CocaCola, Del Monte, Globe, Gcash, Kojiesan and Nutri-Asia, among others, are some of the big names that will be participating in the convention. Puregold hopes that the relationships between these big brands and the sarisari stores will continue to flourish through the years.

Ultra-fast gaming experience with Infinix NOTE 30 5G

MOBILE gamers, it’s time to gear up with the latest and the best as Infinix launches the Infinix NOTE 30 Series ‚the newest addition to its impressive lineup of gaming-optimized phones—on May 30, 2023.

What can we expect from the Infinix NOTE 30 5G?

First off, the new addition to the Infinix lineup sets itself apart with its seamless performance courtesy of the MediaTek Dimensity 6080, and breakthrough allaround fast charge technology. Longer gameplays, shorter downtime

With the Infinix NOTE 30 5G, users are sure to experience smooth-

er gameplays as it’s powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6080 5G chipset with up to 16GB extended RAM 8+8. These ultra-fast features allow users to play multiple matches for longer hours without experiencing any lag. The seamless movements and visuals can also help with their grind to the top of the ranks.

Gamers also get shorter recharge breaks with Infinix NOTE 30 5G’s 5000mAh battery, which can be charged rapidly with the 45W Thunder Charge feature, along with the Batter Bypass mode to keep the device cool.

Full immersion

players won’t strain their eyes while playing for hours.

Top-of-the-line specs meet affordable prices with the Infinix NOTE 30 5G, redefining what a great gaming mobile phone can be for enthusiasts everywhere.

It will be exclusively launched on Lazada on May 31, 2023, where buyers can get special first sale freebies, like the W1 Smart Watch, Air 1 Pro Earphones, and a Mobile Legends: Bang Bang skin. The Infinix NOTE 30 Series will be up for grabs soon! Learn more about it via the official Infinix website and Facebook page.

Infinix Mobility is a rapidly emerging technology brand that designs, manufactures and markets an expanding portfolio of smart devices worldwide under the Infinix brand, which was founded in 2013.

Targeting today’s youth with first in class technology, Infinix creates trendy, powerful and attainably priced smart devices.

Enhance your vision, embrace new adventure with OWNDAYS

SEIZE the opportunity to not only revolutionize your eyesight with advanced progressive lenses but also embark on a journey to the heart of Japan!

OWNDAYS, a Japanese optical chain with 71 branches in the Philippines, is delighted to introduce state-of-the-art progressive lenses, offering support for both near and distant sight.

The collection showcases a range of choices - Silver, Gold, Diamond, and the newly launched Diamond+. Setting new standards, OWNDAYS’ Diamond+ Progressive lenses present seven personalized lens design options that seamlessly sync with your lifestyle needs. Incorporating double aspheric design and an advanced comfort zone design, these lenses deliver a realistic visual experience, an extended field of vision, and require the shortest adjustment period.

Take a Leap in Vision Care, Win a Remarkable Journey to Japan

Are you ready to experience our most advanced progressive lenses? Visit your local OWNDAYS store, where not only can you experience cutting-edge eyewear technology, but you also have the chance to win an enchanting trip to Japan. Our “OWNDAYS Win a Trip for Two to Japan!” promotion, available until the end of June, is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

By purchasing our progressive lenses

- Silver, Gold, Diamond, or Diamond+ in a single receipt, you are automatically entered into our grand raffle draw. Depending on the lens you choose, you could earn between one and six entries, increasing your chances of winning. As part of this exclusive promotion, winners will be whisked away on a luxurious Business Class round trip for two to

Tokyo or Osaka, coupled with a comfortable three-day, two-night stay in a hotel of their choosing.

Five lucky winners will secure this dream trip-for-two package, each receiving an all-expense-paid travel and accommodation experience worth a whopping P200,000. Don’t miss out on this chance to revolutionize your vision with OWNDAYS’ progressive lenses and potentially embark on an unforgettable Japanese adventure.

Joining this unparalleled giveaway is as straightforward as these five steps:

Step 1: Procure Silver, Gold, Diamond or Diamond+ Progressive Lenses from an OWNDAYS outlet before June 30, 2023.

Step 2: Fill out the raffle ticket with the requisite information. Step 3: Authenticate and submit your raffle stub at the participating OWNDAYS station, while retaining your part

Enjoy games in highdefinition with sharp details and vivid contrast with the Infinix NOTE 30 5G’s 6.78 inch FHD+ display with 120Hz refresh rate and Eye-Care Display, ensuring that

Targeting today’s youth with first in class technology, Infinix creates trendy, powerful and attainably priced smart devices that bring the latest technology on the market to users around the world at a time when they need it at a price that they want it.

For more information, please visit: http://www.infinixmobility.com/

of the stub for claiming the prize, if you emerge as the lucky winner.

Step 4: Ensure your passport remains current and be prepared to apply for a Japan visa, as the raffle draw unravels on July 14, 2023.

Step 5: Stay connected with OWNDAYS via our Facebook page (owndays. ph) or Instagram handle, owndaysph, for the grand announcement of winners after July 16, 2023.

This promotion is open to all Filipino residents aged 18 and over at the start of the promo period. Please note that winners

are required to obtain their Japan visa and have a valid passport six months prior to their travel date.

So, brace yourself, upgrade your vision with progressive lenses from OWNDAYS, and seize this once-ina- lifetime opportunity to explore Japan. This promotion is sanctioned under DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB 163704 Series of 2023.

To stay updated on this extraordinary giveaway from OWNDAYS, check our Instagram, Facebook, or our website (www.owndays.ph)

ZTE strengthens commitment to sustainability, joins Science-Based Targets Initiative

ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of information and communication technology solutions, has officially announced its participation in the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) and conducted a commitment signing ceremony.

Aligning with the initiative’s guidelines, ZTE will establish science-based emission reduction targets in the near term and strive for long-term netzero emissions. Over the course of 5-10 years, ZTE aims to achieve significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions in line with the 1.5°C temperature rise limitation pathway and ultimately reach net-zero emissions by 2050 at the latest.

At the commitment signing ceremony, Mr. Wang Xiang, Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of ZTE, signed the pledge to the SBTi. Distinguished guests, including Mr. Lin Guoen, Vice Chairman of Deloitte China; Mr. Zhuang Binghan, Vice President of the Marketing Group at Intel; Mr. Hong Xiongbin, Regional General Manager of SGS Limited; and Mr. Ma Qi, Executive Deputy General Manager of Great Wall Power Technology Co., Ltd., representing valued suppliers, were in attendance, bearing wit-

ness to this significant milestone.

SBTi is recognized as one of the world’s most influential emission reduction mechanisms.

Launched in 2015 by the collaboration of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), the World Resources Institute (WRI), and the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), this initiative provides businesses with a well-defined and scientifically derived pathway to effectively reduce emissions.

By aligning with the goals of the Paris Agreement, the SBTi empowers companies to proactively mitigate climate change’s adverse impacts by implementing scientifically grounded emission reduction strategies. As a leader in the information and communication industry, ZTE has consistently been dedicated to reducing its operational and value chain emissions. Through continuous technological innovation, ZTE strives to enhance the energy efficiency of its products and solutions. Moreover, its Green ICT infrastructure empowers diverse industries to achieve energy savings and carbon reduction.

In 2022, ZTE achieved an impressive 7.48% reduction in overall carbon emissions compared

to the previous year while maintaining revenue growth. This accomplishment was made possible through the implementation of comprehensive and multidimensional energy-saving and emission reduction measures.

The announcement of ZTE joining the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) this time marks a significant milestone in the Company’s carbon neutrality journey. Following the introduction of its visionary “Digital Economy Green Road” strategy in 2021, ZTE is now committed to working closely with SBTi to develop tailored emission reduction action plans. These plans will cover various domains, including corporate operations, product research and development, manufacturing, and supply chain management.

By aligning with the SBTi guidelines and leveraging its expertise in technological innovation, ZTE aims to make a substantial contribution to driving global economic growth towards a greener and more sustainable future. The Company firmly believes in the power of collaboration and collective action to address climate change challenges and create a positive impact on both human society and the natural environment.

In nix launches the In nix NOTE 30 Series – the newest addition to its impressive lineup of gaming-optimized phones.

over 1.1 million sari-sari stores in the Philippines, big brands have a world of potential once they tap the market of the local stores.

Wang Xiang, Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of ZTE, signed the pledge to the SBTi. Distinguished guests, including Lin Guoen, Vice Chairman of Deloitte China; Zhuang Binghan, Vice President of the Marketing Group at Intel; Hong Xiongbin, Regional General Manager of SGS Limited; and Ma Qi, Executive Deputy General Manager of Great Wall Power Technology Co., Ltd. were in attendance.