Manila Standard - 2023 June 2 - Friday

MIF structure up for review

PBBM says sovereign fund design must support critical infra projects

By Vince Lopez and Macon Ramos-Araneta

THE Palace will now look at the structure of the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) bill passed by Congress on Wednesday before it is signed into law to ensure that "necessary infrastructure" projects, including energy development goals, would be funded by proceeds of the fund.

“It’s so that we, the Philippines, can participate in what would be, what is regarded, of course, as an investment for us. It is necessary infrastructure that

we are investing in (through the MIF),” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said Thursday.

“So, that is the plan for the sovereign

fund. We now have to go and look at the design or the structuring of the fund. But it is basically seen as our government participation in projects that, mostly, it will really be in the Philippines,” he added.

This developed as the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) expressed interest in investing in the Maharlika Fund as it seeks partnerships with Philippine companies for energy development.

JBIC Chairman of the Board Tadashi Maeda expressed this during a courtesy call on President Marcos in Malacañang on Wednesday.

Congress leaders hail accomplishments

By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Maricel V Cruz

AS Congress went on recess Thursday, lawmakers in both chambers pointed to their legislative accomplishments.

In a video message, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also renewed his call for unity as he lauded House lawmakers for their work.

"Remain united, determined, and passionate. Be the voice of the people and fulfill your duties as servant leaders

in your respective districts and provinces," the President said.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri branded the First Regular Session of the 19th Congress a success, citing “quality” measures that were approved while

By Charles Dantes

THE Philippine Coast Guard on Thursday welcomed the arrival of its United States and Japanese counterparts in Manila as the first-ever trilateral maritime exercises officially began.

Rody rejects calls to serve as government drug czar

FORMER President Rodrigo Duterte has turned down calls to become the new anti-drug czar, saying it is now the duty of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to fix

SWS: 45% of Pinoys optimistic life will improve in 1 year

By Vito Barcelo

AT LEAST 45 percent of Filipino adults are optimistic that their lives will improve in the next 12 months, the latest survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) shows.

The survey, conducted from March 26 to 29, also found 42 percent of Filipinos saying the quality of their lives will stay the same, while 6 percent said it will worsen. Eleven percent of the 1,200 respondents did not give an answer.

SWS noted that the net personal

the country's illegal drug problem. “Mukhang hindi na rin tama [it doesn't seem right anymore], Pastor, because there is the President duly

elected and it is his duty to enforce the law and solve crimes,” Duterte said in a television interview.

By Vince Lopez

Billed as "Kaagapay Maritime Exercise 2023," the event aim to improve interoperability among the three countries through communication exercises, maneuvering drills, photo exercises, maritime law enforcement training, search and rescue and passing exercises.

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the geological mapping of all agricultural lands in the country to establish soil maps for specific agricultural products that will help improve farmers' products.

President Marcos said the government is already using geo mapping in

resolving titling issues to boost agricultural production and increase the income of farmers.

"In geo mapping, we're already using maps of BIR (Bureau of Internal Revenue) and NAMRIA (National Mapping and Resource Information Authority). We are putting together everything be

Oil firms slash LPG prices by P6/kilo

By Alena Mae Flores

BROTHERS-IN-ARMS. Japanese coast guard Captain Toru Imai (left), commanding officer of Japanese ship Akitsushima; Philippine coast guard Captain Antonio Sontillanosa (center), commanding officer of Philippine ship Melchora Aquino, and Captain Brian Krautler (right), commanding officer of US coast guard ship Stratton, link arms during the arrival ceremony at the international port in Manila on June 1, 2023, ahead of the first-ever trilateral maritime exercises. AFP, Norman Cruz

INVESTMENT PARTNER. Japan Bank International Corporation (JBIC) chairman Tadashi Maeda congratulates President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the passage of the Maharlika sovereign fund during a courtesy call at the Palace on Wednesday.

NBI to probe broadcaster’s murder

By Rey E. Requejo

Justice Secretary Jesus Remulla has ordered the National Bureau of Investigation to probe the killing of radio broadcaster Cresenciano Bunduquin in Oriental Mindoro last Wednesday, May 31.

“We’re asking the NBI to look into it, this killing, because we want to know the motives,” Remulla said in a press conference Thursday. Remulla said he issued the directive to the NBI on request of the Presidential

MIF...

From A1

For his part, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel Ill said once the measure becomes a law, it can be challenged before the Supreme Court.

Pimentel also guaranteed to help anybody who will go to court and question the investment fund.

“For those planning to do this, I will make myself available as source of some facts, information and arguments,” he said.

For the JBIC, Maeda said they are interested in addressing the role of liquified natural gas (LNG) as a traditional source of power in the country, and the need to bring in other energy sources such as hydropower, solar, and wind.

“We have the potential…between Japan and the Philippines to work together,” he said.

“For example, I already had a meeting with Aboitiz (Corp.) Chairman Sabin (Aboitiz) and I proposed to him to have an MOU… and to Metro Pacific, and also to San Miguel,” Maeda added.

He said there is a need to identify the specific project and determine how to switch to more efficient energy, as well as the development of new technology like hydrogen.

The JBIC chair also congratulated the

Congress...

From A1

Speaker Martin Romualdez thanked his colleagues for the "record-breaking" accomplishments in the House of Representatives.

“True to our tradition, we do not agree to proposals without discussion, nor embrace ideas without debate. We improve before we approve. We do not trade scrutiny for speed,” Zubiri said.

Romualdez, for his part, thanked his colleagues for their hard work and fidelity to their job.

“Each and every member of this august body truly deserves commendation for a job well done.

Congratulations to all of us! When I assumed the post as your Speaker, I invited each one of you to support and join me in fulfilling the aspirations of the Filipino people. For readily heeding this call, I express my sincerest gratitude to everyone,” Romualdez said.

“The unity that we have shown in the performance of duty, and our relentless action in keeping the legislative mill grinding to full efficiency, are now

Rody...

From A1

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, Duterte’s erstwhile longtime assistant, broached the idea previously to Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. on Tuesday during a Senate hearing on the multimillion-peso shabu drug haul last year.

Duterte, who has been facing an International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation because of the bloody war on drugs during his term as president, was asked if he would consider working for the Marcos administration.

He stressed that addressing the drug issue is a “matter of leadership,” thus Mr. Marcos should be given the leeway to do so.

“Let us give Marcos the greatest elbow room leeway to do his job in just one year. And in fairness to the police, that’s the problem. The last time I said it, it's a matter of leadership,” the former president said.

In response to Sen. Go, Acorda said he would support any step that would help in the government’s campaign against illegal drugs.

Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa backed the call to put Duterte in as antidrug czar, saying it will bring back fear to policemen and criminal syndicates involved in the illegal drug trade.

Dela Rosa served as Duterte's

1st...

From A1

PCG spokesperson Rear Admiral Armand Balilo said the maritime exercise would also deal with illegal fishing, smuggling, and a scenario against a suspected vessel involved in piracy.

Asked if the trilateral exercise is related to the ongoing territorial dispute

Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS)

Executive Director Paul Gutierrez. Police reports showed Bunduquin was gunned down by two assailants while he was opening his retail store in Barangay Sta. Isabel, Calapan City at

Philippine government for the approval of the proposed sovereign wealth fund law by both Houses of Congress.

President Marcos said these are the kinds of investments the country needs, which is why the fund is being created.

Maeda said the JBIC also wants to know more details about the country’s potential, targeted projects, and those still in the pipeline so it could make more tangible, specific proposals to upgrade the value of the strategic cooperation.

In the Senate during the deliberations of the controversial measure, Pimentel raised several concerns over the MIF, including its economic viability.

Pimentel, Sen. Imee Marcos, and Sen. Francis Escudero did not cast their votes during the third and final reading of the MIF.

But Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said the MIF is “Mission Impossible Fund” no more.

“The version of the measure that we have approved meets the high bar for transparency and accountability. The many amendments that we placed here will assure the Filipino people that this fund will be used properly, efficiently, and effectively,” said Zubiri.

This stand was echoed by the administration’s economic managers, who said the Senate version of the MIF bill eventually adopted by the House of Representatives has more safeguards against potential abuse and is also “more

reaping fruits for our beloved institution.

Public opinion on the performance rating of the House of Representatives is fast reaching an all-time high,” the Speaker added.

Zubiri said six Senate measures were enacted into law—four of national application, and two local laws.

Twenty-two bills are now also for the President’s signature—seven of them national and 15 local. Two national bills are pending before the bicameral conference committee, and six more national bills have been approved on third reading.

“A highlight among our accomplishments is our approval of eight of the priority measures of the administration,” Zubiri said.

Three of these measures have already been passed into law-the SIM Registration Act, an Act Postponing the Barangay Elections, and the AFP Fixed Term Law.

Meanwhile, the measure on the Condonation of Unpaid Amortization and Interests on Loans of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries, the Regional Specialty Centers Act, the Extension of the Estate Tax Amnesty Act, and the Maharlika

first national police chief during his administration.

In March, the ICC's Appeals Chamber rejected the Philippine government's bid for the suspension of the ICC prosecutor's investigation into the killings in the war on drugs.

Mr. Marcos then said the Philippines is disengaging from the ICC.

However, Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra in April said the country will still pursue its appeal questioning the ICC’s jurisdiction and authority to investigate killings during Duterte’s drug war.

Government records showed that at least 6,000 drug suspects were killed in police operations from June 2016 until November 2021.

Several human rights groups, on the other hand, claimed the actual death toll may be up to 30,000.

Go raised his question after expressing concern that the efforts of the Duterte administration would be put to waste considering the alleged involvement of some cops in the “recycling” of confiscated drugs.

"Let's not waste what former President Duterte started to fight against illegal drugs. When illegal drugs return, we know that criminality and corruption will return," he said.

Dela Rosa, who was the first PNP chief of the Duterte administration, also aired his frustration against the cops involved.

with China in the West Philippine Sea, Balilo said no. He added that there will be no scenarios involving the Chinese Coast Guard roaming inside the country's exclusive economic zone.

PCG said that it will deploy BRP Melchora Aquino, BRP Gabriela Silang, BRP Boracay, and one 44-meter multirole response vessel for the drills.

The Japanese Coast Guard arrived at Pier 13 onboard the 91.7-meter-long

around 4:20 a.m.

“We know that his son ran after the gunmen, killed one of them, and recovered an identification card,” Remulla said.

“They seemed to be gun for hire. Whoever hired the hitmen, we should know them,” he added.

As this developed, several members of the diplomatic community in the Philippines have expressed concern over Bunduquin's murder

The United States Embassy in Manila said that protection of media freedom is an “integral element” of democracy.

acceptable to everyone.”

Zubiri said the MIF, as finetuned by the Senate, will “attract investments, impose integrity safeguards, and yield gains for social good.”

“We are going to make the MIF work for the country,” Zubiri promised. “And I am very proud of this version because of the safeguards we put in place. No need to worry.”

The ratified version details strict safeguards for the selection of officers, for which there will be a rigorous vetting process, and introduces lengthy penal provisions to guard against the misuse of funds.

Hefty fines and penalties, including perpetual disqualification from public office, will be imposed on officers who commit prohibited acts, or conceal or tolerate graft and corrupt practices.

Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa expressed faith in the Marcos administration’s genuine intent in pushing for the establishment of the Maharlika fund.

“Malacanang will not do that if it will destroy our country. Who is a president or for that matter, an administration who will do measures to destroy the future of his country?” said Dela Rosa. He said that some of his colleagues in the Senate just have their concerns, but he believes it’s fit the good of our country.

“So let’s work for the betterment of our

Investment Fund Act are awaiting the President’s signature.

The Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act has also been approved by the Senate on third reading. It needs only its House counterpart before it can move forward.

“While this scoreboard shows the quantity of our output, it does not describe the quality of each of these measures,” said Zubiri.

Indeed, the Maharlika Investment Fund only secured the Senate’s third reading approval at 2:32 a.m. on Wednesday, after an 11-hour marathon session taken up by extensive line-byline amendments to the bill.

“All of the senators across the majority and the minority have toiled very hard, from their committee hearings to the rigorous debates and interpellations in plenary. If the Senate has had an excellent performance thus far, it is all thanks to them.”

Meanwhile, Speaker Romualdez said the House also performed its oversight function to find solutions to the country’s pressing problems, like the recent unwarranted increase in the price of onions.

He said due to the inquiry and work

Marcos...

From A1

cause it would be difficult to have a survey on all these lands,” Mr. Marcos said in the meeting with the Philippine Rice Industry Stakeholders Movement (PRISM) on Wednesday.

“From that, the issue on titling will be easier. We will be able to define the parcels of land. It will be easier if we will solve the titling problem," he added.

PRISM also raised with the President other concerns such as high cost of rice production and limited market access, limited access to capital investment, adverse BIR policies, lack of extensive irrigation system, climate crisis-El Niño threat, and slow adoption of vital rice production technology.

The Presidential Communications Office said the present government interventions addressing these concerns include the implementation of Farm and Fisheries Consolidation and Clustering program (F2C2), provision of various support services including credit and financing by the Department of Agriculture, and the Land Bank of the Philippines, and establishment of climate-smart agriculture infrastructure.

The Marcos administration is also formulating the National Agricultural and Fisheries Modernization and Industrialization Plan and other plans to guide the de-

Akitsushima with its Commanding Officer Captain Toru Imai. The United States Coast Guard came shortly afterward with the USCGC Stratton with its commander Capt. Brian Krautler, the 6th Commanding Officer of the CGC Stratton.

“We’re eager to join the Philippine and Japan Coast Guards and participate in meaningful engagements with our allies and partners both in port and at sea,” Krautler said. “This first trilateral engagement

The embassies of Canada and The Netherlands underscored the need to safeguard media freedom to allow journalists to work without fearing for their lives and called on the government to ensure that the perpetrators are held accountable.

“Attacks on media workers must be urgently investigated, and those responsible must be held accountable,” their joint statement read.

The embassies of the Czech Republic, the United Kingdom, France, Japan, Germany and the European Delegation in Manila also condemned the killing.

country,” Dela Rosa said. His proposal to prohibit the use of government social welfare entities such as the Social Security System (SSS) and the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) to invest in the Maharlika was adopted in Congress’ final version of the bill.

For her part, Sen. Grace Poe said the bill passed is an enhanced, better version with adequate safeguards to ensure effective and transparent governance of funds.

“We pushed to include the requirement of a fidelity bond worth P10 million for the board members of the Maharlika Investment Corporation to guarantee that they will faithfully account for the funds entrusted to them,” she said.

“As an added protection of the fund, we increased the fines, imposed imprisonment and included perpetual disqualification from public office as part of penalties against officials who will tolerate graft, act as intermediaries for corrupt acts, and those who will be found erring during fund audits."

“We also strengthened congressional oversight over the fund by requiring the quarterly submission of investment portfolio and audit reports,” she added.

According to the senator, they put premium on the public's right to freedom of information by giving them access to investment plans for the fund and to audit its documents.

done by the committee on agriculture, the biggest onion cartel in the country has been dismantled and the price of the commodity has returned to its previous level.

The Speaker also thanked the other leaders of the House, including its senior deputy speaker, deputy speakers, Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe, committee chairpersons and vice chairpersons, the secretariat, and all employees for the chamber’s record accomplishments.

“As we close the First Regular Session, I wish that you will remain steadfast in your duty. Let us take this time to reenergize, reflect and reinvigorate our passion for public service,” he said.

The Speaker also expressed his gratitude to the political parties in the House for their commitment and cooperation in the approval of priority bills of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC).

Just a few days ago, the Romualdezled Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) signed alliance agreements with each of seven national, local, and sectoral political groups in the House.

velopment of the agriculture and fisheries sectors.

Founded in 2019, PRISM is composed of multisectoral groups involved in the rice industry value chain.

It has the mandate to address the fragmented government approach in addressing issues and help protect the interests of all stakeholders, from the farmers to the consumers.

The geo mapping is in line with the government's goal of 100% rice self-sufficiency in five years following President Marcos's approval of the Masagana Rice Industry Development Program (MRIDP).

The President, who concurrently heads the Department of Agriculture (DA), disclosed the government target during a Rice Industry Convergence Meeting in Quezon City on Wednesday.

“This convergence meeting, I think, has given us a good roadmap to follow, but marami pang mangyayari d’yan between now and our goal of having a 97.5-percent self-sufficiency in rice,” Mr. Marcos said.

Mr. Marcos said the government does not have “to be 100%” and that 97.5% is “a good enough number.”

The President explained the remaining 2.5% is for the other necessary niche products. He also encouraged all the stakeholders to stick to the roadmap, which he described as a “good plan” that could enable the country’s agriculture sector to surmount any roadblocks that lie ahead.

[among] the coast guards of these nations will provide invaluable opportunities to strengthen global maritime governance through professional exchanges and combined operations. Together we’ll demonstrate professional, rules-based standards of maritime operations with our steadfast partners to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific,” he added.

Roughly 400 participants are expected to join in the drills, with about 200 personnel from the PCG, 80-100 from the

SC asked to order Maynilad, Manila Water to refund their customers

By Rey E. Requejo

PARTY-LIST group Bayan Muna on Thursday asked the Supreme Court to partially reconsider its December 2021 decision which barred water consumers from demanding a refund for the income tax collected from them by Maynilad Water Services Inc. and Manila Water Company, Inc.

This was despite an SC ruling that the two water firms are public utilities, and thus cannot recover their corporate income taxes as operating expenses from consumers.

In its partial motion for reconsideration, Bayan Muna, through its counsel Maria Cristina Yambot, also asked the Court to direct the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) to account all corporate income taxes of Manila Water and Maynila it allowed to be included in applicable water rates from 2022 to 2012.

The petitioner said the water utilities should be compelled to refund the “illegally” passed on corporate income taxes to their respective water consumers.

While the High Court earlier ruled that water concessionaires Manila Water and Maynilad are public utilities, it denied the plea of Bayan Muna for the release of the refund, noting that the right to refund had already long prescribed due to the failure of any party to contest the water rates before the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) within the prescribed period of 30 days after the effectivity of such rates.

SWS:...

From A1

optimism score in the survey was +38, classified as very high. The March net personal optimism score, however, was six points lower than the “excellent” +44 in December 2022. Compared to December 2022, Net Personal Optimism fell from excellent to very high in Balance Luzon, down by 6 points from +43 to +37.

It fell from very high to high in the Visayas, down by 10 points from +37 to +27. It stayed excellent in Metro Manila, although down by 4 points from +49 to +45. It also stayed excellent in Mindanao, hardly moving from +48 to +47.

The March 2023 survey found 29 percent of adult Filipinos saying their quality of life was better than twelve months before, 25 percent saying it got worse, and 46 percent saying it was the same (“Unchanged”), compared to a year ago.

In all surveys from 2019 to 2023, Net Personal Optimism has been higher among Gainers than among Losers and Unchanged.

On the other hand, the scores among the Unchanged have been slightly higher than among the Losers except in May, July, and September 2020, when the gap widened.

The March 2023 survey found that 9.8 percent of Filipino families, or an estimated 2.7 million, experienced involuntary hunger – being hungry and not having anything to eat – at least once in the past three months.

Net Personal Optimism was at very high levels of +39 among adults who belong to families that did not experience hunger in the past three months, +33 among those who belong to families that experienced hunger in general, and +36 among those who belong to families who experienced Moderate Hunger, compared to the fair +12 those who belong to families who experienced Severe Hunger.

Oil...

From A1

On Tuesday, the country's oil firms raised gasoline prices by P1.10 per liter to reflect the movement of oil prices in the world market.

Diesel prices did not move, but the oil firms cut the price of kerosene by P0.35 per liter.

PTT Philippines, Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Chevron Philippines, Seaoil Philippines, Petro Gazz, Cleanfuel, and Jetti Petroleum made separate announcements of their latest price movements.

USCG, and 60 to 70 from the JCG. Kaagapay Maritime Exercise 2023 is slated to run from June 1 to June 7 in the waters off Mariveles, Bataan.

The Japanese embassy Charges d’affaires (CDA) ad interim Matsuda Kenichi affirmed Japan’s support for the trilateral maritime exercise, saying “the shared history between Japan, the Philippines and the United States realizes a free and open international order in the Indo-Pacific region.”

IN BRIEF

DILG, DND, DOT seal pact on Mindanao dev’t

THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has signed an agreement with two other agencies, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of National Defense (DND) to ensure peace and order along with tourism development in Mindanao.

DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos, Jr. said his agency’s partnership with the DND and the DOT was a demonstration of the government’s dedication and desire to continue the development of an insurgency-free Mindanao that possesses great potentials through the implementation of community-based tourism programs.

Abalos said the DILG was committed to ensure that the local police were properly deployed in tourist destinations. Joel E. Zurbano

BI holds five outbound Pinoys with fake papers

FIVE outbound overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) were stopped from boarding their plane at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for presenting spurious travel documents.

Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco said his operatives intercepted four women bound for Bangkok, Thailand and a male passenger intending to leave for Singapore.

Tansingco said the five prospective OFWs presented dubious employment documents and canceled hotel bookings.

The group reportedly lied about the nature of their jobs here and were very inconsistent in their answers to questions asked by the Immigration agents. Vito Barcelo

BI saves two suspected victims of trafficking

PERHAPS, they don’t realize it, but their failure to leave for abroad may have saved them from unforgettable tragedies or misadventure, at the very least.

Bureau of Immigration (BI) officers at the Clark International Airport (CIA) in Pampanga stopped two women, suspected of being trafficking victims, from leaving for abroad disguised as seafarers.

Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco said the two passengers were intercepted as they were about to board a Cebu Pacific flight to Bangkok, Thailand.

Makati revives free movies for the elderlies

SENIOR citizens of Makati City who are Blu Card members and Makatizen Virtual Card holders can watch to their heart’s desire their favorite movies on the big screen free of charge.

The Makati City government on Thursday officially relaunched its free movie program for the elderly Makatizens.

According to Mayor Abigail Binay, some 82,617 senior citizens in the city who are Blu card members and Makatizen Virtual Card holders will benefit from the project.

During the relaunch of the program at Glorietta 4, Binay said the city had to temporarily suspended the program at the height of the pandemic in 2020 for the safety and well-being of senior citizens.

“The past years have been challenging for everyone, particularly our senior citizens who were among the most vulnerable during the health crisis. By reinstating this initiative, we aim to provide them with a much-needed avenue for entertainment, joy, and social engagement,” she said. Joel E. Zurbano

Storm Betty exits country but will enhance ‘habagat’

TROPICAL storm Betty left the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) on Thursday afternoon, but would continue to induce the monsoon winds and rains or the habagat, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

Betty, which entered PAR as a super typhoon, was last spotted 685 kilometers northeast of Itbayat, Batanes at 4 p.m., packing maximum sustained winds of 95 kilometers per hour and gusts of 115 kph, the state weather forecaster said.

In the next 24 hours, Betty is expected to enhance the southwest monsoon or habagat which will bring occasional to frequent wind gusts over northern Cagayan including Babuyan Islands, Ilo-

cos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Central Luzon, Metro Manila, Calabarzon, Bicol Region, MIMAROPA, Western Visayas, and Northern Samar, the PAGASA’s 5p.m. advisory stated.

The severe tropical storm was also expected to steadily weaken throughout the forecast period due to lower sea surface temperature of the sea surrounding the Ryukyu Islands.

In the next three days, Betty was expected to enhance the southwest mon-

soon or habagat, which will become “the dominant rain-causing system in the country”, PAGASA said in its 11 a.m. advisory. The habagat will dump 50 to 100 mm or heavy rains over La Union, Benguet, Occidental Mindoro, Romblon, Aklan, Antique, and northern Palawan until Friday morning, PAGASA said.

Floods and landslides are possible, especially in areas which experienced rains over the past several days, PAGASA warned. While Betty did not directly hit the Philippines, it affected some 8,200 families or 30,500 people, 1,039 of whom stayed in evacuation centers, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said.

ANIMAL WELFARE ADVOCATES. Members and supporters of the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, wearing camel headgear, stage a demonstration at the Egyptian Embassy in Manila to urge the Egyptian government to ban the use of camels and horses to transport tourists to the famous pyramids of Giza. AFP

FIBA security assured—PNP

By Charles Dantes

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) has given assurance of its readiness for the security of the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 set on August 25 to September 10 this year.

In a statement released on Thursday, the PNP said it would implement its ‘tried and tested’ security framework, the same setup implemented in past major events such as the 2015 Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, the 2015 papal visit, the 2017 ASEAN conference, and the 2020 Miss Universe pageant, will serve as the template for FIBA 2023.

PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. expressed confidence in his men’s capabilities to provide a safe and secure environment to all participants, officials, and spectators of the cagefest.

“The PNP is fully committed to the success of this prestigious international event. We are working closely with our partner agencies to deliver a memorable experience for everyone involved,” Acorda said.

The opening ceremony followed by the opening matches between Angola vs. Italy and the Philippines vs. Dominican Republic will be held at the Philippine Arena in Ciudad de Victoria, Sta. Maria, Bulacan.

A Security Task Force FBWC 2023 has been created as the primary body responsible for conducting security operations and other related public safety services during the event.

All organizations involved in the basketball tournament including the Philippine Sports Commission, the FBWC 2023 LOC, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, local government units, stakeholders, and other concerned agencies will be under the leadership of the PNP acting deputy chief for operations and the acting director for operations as overall supervisor.

Tingog party-list opens outreach center in Candelaria, Zambales

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE office of Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, along with Tingog party-list Reps. Yedda Marie Romualdez and Jude Acidre on Friday launched Alagang Tingog Center (ATC) in Candelaria, Zambales.

The event, in collaboration with Zam-

bales Rep. Doris Maniquiz, marked the second center to be inaugurated during the two-day ATC caravan in the province.

The event was attended by Candelaria Vice Mayor Gilbert Hermoso who acknowledged the presence of Acidre, House deputy secretary general Sofonias Gabonada, barangay officials led

by Alvin Mana, local public school district officials, and municipal coordinators.

“This demonstrated the strong support and cooperation among key stakeholders in ensuring the success of the Alagang Tingog Center,” Acidre said.

Gabonada, representing Speaker Romualdez, thanked the residents of

Zambales and Maniquiz for their unwavering support for Tingog Party-list’s initiatives in making government services accessible.

“Nandito na ang kusina ng Tingog party-list, para araw-araw ninyo pong matitikman ang putahe ng programa at serbisyo para sa mga mamamayan ng Zambales,” he said.

Oil spill cleanup enters final stage

By Charles Dantes

EFFORTS to clean up the massive oil spill in Mindoro are now on its final phase with the arrival of a special vessel designed to siphon off the remaining industrial fuel from a sunken tanker off Naujan and Pola towns in Oriental Mindoro, the National Task Force on Oil Spill Management said on Thursday.

The task force said the dynamic support vessel “Fire Opal” arrived in Oriental Mindoro from Singapore on May 28.

It said the vessel will be used for oil extraction operations, transferring the remaining fuel to another tanker preparatory to final disposition.

The entire siphoning operations may take 20 to 30 days, the task force said.

A conference to formulate rehabilita-

tion and recovery plans will also be held under the stewardship of the National Economic and Development Authority.

During the meeting presided by Office of Civil Defense administrator Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno and attended by representatives of various task force agencies, the Philippine Coast Guard reported that out of the 79.33 kilometers (kms), 83.74 percent of affected coastlines consisting of 66.433 kms. had been declared oil slick-free with only 12.89 kms. remaining for cleanup.

The ongoing cleanup operations have so far collected 44,656.30 liters of oily water mixture, 10,708 sacks, 997 drums, 119 pails, and 648 1-tonner bags of oil contaminated sand/debris and oily waste from Calabarzon, Mimaropa and Region 6.

Dar denies any involvement in onion cartel

FORMER Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary William Dar has denied any involvement in an alleged cartel behind the rapid rise of onion prices last year.

Dar issued a statement on Thursday, expressing readiness to defend himself from any accusations related to the controversial onion price surge.

“I am more than willing to answer any inquiries on the onion issue, and repulse the malicious insinuation that I was involved in a cartel, which was grossly unfair, tarnishing my name,” he said, in the statement.

During a House hearing last month, House Committee on Agriculture and Food Chairman and Quezon 1st district Rep. Wilfrido Mark Enverga claimed a certain “Leah Cruz,” dubbed “Sibuyas Queen,” has already penetrated the local market even before the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Enverga said that Dar, who led the agriculture department during the latter part of former President Duterte’s administration, had “a lot of explaining to do.”

But Dar stressed that the soaring prices were witnessed “after our term.”

“In contrast, prices of onion were stable during our incumbency,” he said.

“Simply put, we did not have any hand in the price surge of onion, which reached as high as ₱700 per kilogram (kg) during the last quarter of 2022,” Dar, quoted by a CNN report, said.

Citing data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, Dar said that during his stint from August 5, 2019 to June 30, 2022, the country had an excess of 107,719 metric tons of onions.

BUTTERFLY CARETAKER.

Marlin Marayan, a butterfly caretaker, inspects

butterflies laying eggs at the MARL Insects and Butterfly Culture garden in Brgy.

Amoingon, Boac Marinduque. Marinduque exports thousands of butterflies and pupas or chrysalis monthly in France, Norway, Netherlands, New Zealand, and Singapore.

Danny Pata

Sri Tahir donates P41.6m to PH

INDONESIAN tycoon Dato’ Sri Tahir has donated about P41.6 million to the Philippines, with a pledge to support social welfare and healthcare programs of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Malacañang announced Thursday.

Tahir, the founder of Indonesian conglomerate Mayapada Group, handed over the P41.6 million donation to Mr. Marcos during a meeting at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Tuesday, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy Garafil said.

This, as the President briefed Tahir on his administration’s social welfare programs for children and the elderly, as well as on the ongoing housing projects.

“We have a program that we are going to start for the street children. Unfortunately, we still have people who are homeless. So, we are trying to look after them,” Mr. Marcos said, adding that the government also aims to provide financial and medical assistance to senior citizens.

“So, this is how we view social work in the Philippines. As much as possible, we would like people not to become dependent on the government. And

Filipinos, I think, have that attitude. So, that’s a good situation. So, that’s more or less how we are approaching a new way of doing social work,” he added.

Mr. Marcos said his administration is also being “very aggressive” in its housing program to address the country’s backlog of about 6.5 million and fulfill its goal of building 1 million units every year.

“That is a very important part of our agenda. It causes so many social problems if we don’t have available housing. It’s very hard for people to be productive if they do not have their own home,” he told Tahir. “Even if they are just paying for it, it’s different from being informal

settlers, squatters. That’s why it’s a big priority. So, housing is moving well.” Tahir vowed to assist the Marcos administration in improving the lives of the Filipino people through social work and the provision of low-cost housing. He said he is also interested to build a hospital in the Philippines, noting that he is active in providing healthcare support to countries in crisis situations. He added that he has donated about USD40 million to the US government, assisted the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and extended support to countries such as Syria, Libya, Afghanistan and Turkey.

Vince Lopez

Teves’ legal counsel says client may challenge House suspension

THE lawyer of Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. said Teves may challenge in court the latest suspension that the House of Representatives imposed against the lawmaker.

“We are not foreclosing...judicial recourses with respect to the actions of the House committee on ethics,” including the first 60-day suspension,” Ferdinand Topacio, Teves’ legal counsel, said.

The lawyer, in an ABS-CBN report, also said while imposing suspensions and penalties against lawmakers is within the powers of the chamber, his client’s rights were violated, “more particularly, the right to due process and equal protection.”

The House of Representatives on Wednesday imposed another 60-day suspension without pay on Teves over his

PBBM names new Crop Insurance Corp. chief

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Jovy Bernabe as acting head and CEO of the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. (PCIC), Malacañang announced on Thursday.

Bernabe was included in the list of 23 newly-appointed government officials released by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on its official Facebook page.

Bernabe will also serve as a member of the PCIC Board of Directors.

This is not the first time Bernabe will lead the PCIC, having previously served as the president of the agency under the Duterte administration.

In February 2023, Bernabe was tapped as acting member of the Local Water Utilities Administration’s Board of Trustees.

Bernabe also became the deputy executive director of the National Agricultural and Fishery Council and board secretary of the Sugar Regulatory Administration. The PCIC, a government-owned and -controlled corporation, is mandated to provide insurance protection to farmers against losses arising from

natural calamities, plant diseases, and pest infestations of their palay and corn crops, as well as other crops. It also provides protection against damage to or loss of non-crop agricultural assets, including but not limited to machinery, equipment, transport facilities, and related infrastructures.

Malacañang also released the latest appointments in several agencies, including the PCO, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and Department of Transportation (DOTr). Vince Lopez

DOH allows use of Pfizer as third inoculation against coronavirus

THE Department of Health (DOH) said it has allowed the use of Pfizer bivalent vaccines as third booster dose against COVID-19.

The DOH made the announcement while waiting for the arrival of more COVID-19 bivalent vaccines in the country.

In a memorandum signed by DOH officerin-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire dated March 31, the DOH said a “phased approach” shall be followed wherein adults belonging to A1 (healthcare workers) and A2 (senior citizens) categories will be the first ones to be given the Pfizer bivalent vaccine as third booster dose.

Those who will be vaccinated need to wait at least four months after receiving their second booster shot before they take the next one, the DOH said.

The health department also said select hospi-

tals and other health facilities, like city health offices and rural health units, will be used for the pilot roll-out in all regions in the country.

Inoculation for other population groups shall then be opened in succeeding phases, subject to the availability of stocks and possible technical changes.

As of March 20, 2023, DOH’s data showed that 674,471 healthcare workers, and 970,020 senior citizens have received their second booster dose.

The Health Technology Assessment Council (HTAC) had recommended on February 15 the use of COVID-19 Pfizer bivalent vaccine as a first, second, and/or third booster dose for adults belonging to the A1, A2, and A3 (people with comorbidities) categories, four to six months after receiving the primary series or the last booster dose, according to DOH.

continued absence from the chamber on an expired travel authority.

The House adopted the recommendation of the House ethics and privileges panel chaired by COOP-NATCCO party-list Rep. Felimon Espares by a 285-0-1 vote. The chamber also stripped off Teves’ committee memberships.

“His [Teves] actions constitute violation of code of conduct and disorderly behavior warranting disciplinary action. [As a result], the House committee on ethics and privileges recommends to the House of Representatives the imposition of the following penalties: 60 day suspension due to disorderly behavior, revocation of all his rights and privileges as member of the House in said period, and forfeiture of all committee membership,” Espares said. Rio Araja

Sen. Villar vows full support for PH marine areas

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SEN. Cynthia Villar renewed her commitment to protect oceans and wetlands and preserve their role in nurturing life and supporting livelihoods.

During the On-the-Spot Poster-Making Contest initiated by the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources (DENR) at the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park (LPPWP), Villar underscored the importance of “the conservation, protection, and sustainable management of our country’s coastal and marine resources.”

“It becomes all the more important given that the Philippines is an archipelago endowed with vast coastal and ocean resources, including critical habitats, mangroves, coral reefs, seagrass beds, seascapes, and endangered and vulnerable marine flora and fauna, all of which provide both economic and ecological benefits for the present and future generations,” Villar said.

Villar, chairperson of the Committee on Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, said: “It is a sad reality that our oceans and wetlands are vulnerable. Habitat destruction and climate change have led to a decline in marine bounties and biodiversity. Wetlands, such as the LPPWP, a legislated protected area, are also under threat.

Striking out an answer of a witness

ONE of the lessons a lawyer learns in court is how to move to strike out the answer of a witness.

The court can only order the striking out of answers upon proper motion of the concerned or affected party.

The lawyer must be ready to interpose an objection to an incompetent, irrelevant, or improper question. However, it may happen that a witness gives an answer to a question despite the speed at which the lawyer objects to it. The remedy of the objecting lawyer is to move to strike out the answer.

Under the 2019 Rules on Evidence, the grounds on which striking out the answer of a witness is permissible, are as follow: (a) when an answer is given before the adverse party fully voices the objection; (b) when an answer is not responsive to the question; (c) when an answer is given without a question being posed or when it is beyond the limits set by the court; or (d) when the answer given is a narration and not a response to a question (Section 39, Rule 132).

It may happen that incompetent evidence “is received conditionally on the assurance of [the] counsel that he will supply [the] necessary [evidentiary] foundation, [but] which [if] he fails to do, the court should exclude the evidence on its own motion, or, the objecting party should move to exclude it” (Francisco, Evidence citing 58 Am. Jur. 134-135).

The motion to strike the answer must be made before the witness examination is terminated or concluded

“Where a witness answers a question before an objection can be interposed, and the court thereafter sustains an objection to the question, it has been held that the answer to the question cannot be considered as evidence in the case even though no motion to strike the answer is made” (Francisco, Evidence citing 88 C.J.S. 267-269).

“A motion to strike out evidence may be directed against a particular item of evidence on the testimony of a particular witness or some part thereof, or it may be for the purpose of having all the evidence stricken out…it should specify the grounds upon which it is based… all other grounds are thereby waived” (Francisco, Evidence citing 55 AM. JUR. 132).

“A party cannot insist that competent and relevant evidence be stricken out for reasons going to its weight, sufficiency, or credibility… [neither can he] move to strike it out because it proves unfavorable to him, even though it is inadmissible” (Francisco, Evidence citing Mobile Light v. Portiss and Fidelity & Casualty Co… v. Griner).

“The court may, on motion, strike out part of an answer where the meaning of the part left is not changed thereby; but cannot strike out qualifying words in the answer thereby changing it into a positive statement, or strike out a part of an answer so as to leave it unintelligible” (Francisco, Evidence citing 88 C.J.S. 287).

“Evidence may be stricken on motion, on the ground that it is wholly incompetent, immaterial, or irrelevant, and prejudicial” (Francisco, Evidence).

An answer of a witness that has no relation to the fact in issue or irrelevant can be stricken from the records upon proper motion.

However, there are instances when irrelevant, immaterial, or prejudicial questions are allowed to remain in the records subject to the discretion of the court.

While the grant or denial of the motion to strike is left to the court’s discretion, “the right to have it stricken is not subject to the discretion of the court.”

WHEN I was teaching English, Literature and History in high school at the old Ateneo de Manila in the fifties before it became a university, I had often wondered why all the national heroes in history books were all from Luzon, and not one mentioned as being from the Visayas and Mindanao, Santa Banana!

I found the answer when I realized that all the historians writing Philippine history books were all from Luzon.

It’s for this reason that when Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez filed Bill 1461 or the Mindanao Heroes Declaration Act wanting 12 Mindanao revolutionary heroes declared as national heroes I decided to support his bill. There is really a great need to correct the serious error that only those from Luzon should be written in Philippine history books.

Yes, there was one historical figure mentioned, that was Lapu Lapu, the island chieftain from Mactan. Chief Lapu Lapu is credited to have killed the person who discovered the Philippines for Europe, Portuguese Ferdinand Magellan who sailed under the flag of Spain.

The bill of Rodriguez declared that no less than 12 Mindanaons and Visayans be made national heroes for leading the Filipinos’ fight against Spanish and American colonizers.

Sadly, there is no hint of these Mindanao heroes in history books who fought valiantly against Spanish and American colonizers.

House Bill 1461 mentions the 12 Mindanao heroes as the following :

General Nicolas Capistrano

Colonel Velez

Captain Vicente Roa

Simeon Ledesma

Rufino Delosa

Captain Daligdig

Simeon Gonzales

Submarine for PH

period.

“[W]here the incompetency or lack of qualification of a witness to testify on a particular matter clearly appears, his testimony thereon should be stricken. It is a sufficient ground for a motion to strike [if] want of knowledge of a witness … appeared on cross-examination after the court had [previously] ruled that the witness was competent” (Francisco, Evidence citing 88 C.J.S. 269-273).

Where the “testimony on direct examination was based on hearsay, his testimony is subject to a motion to strike and should be stricken. Likewise, testimony should be stricken where it is apparent that the witness is not testifying to anything within his own knowledge” (Francisco, Evidence citing 88 C.J.S. 269-273).

“Where testimony apparently based on hearsay is not clear, the court may temporarily overrule a motion to strike, and have further questions asked; and, if the objection is not thereafter removed, it has been held that a failure to strike is [an] error” (Francisco, Evidence citing 88 C.J.S. 269-273).

Where the subject matter of the evidence is privileged and the question was answered by the witness, the answer may be the subject of a motion to strike.

An answer to a question not based on facts but on speculation and probability, or an answer which argues instead of responding may also be stricken from the records.

If the answer is vague, unintelligible, or confusing, it may be stricken on motion.

“Testimony introduced without a proper foundation therefor, or on an insufficient foundation, may be stricken,” such as presenting secondary evidence of a destroyed document without proper foundation (see Francisco, Evidence citing 88 C.J.S. 269-273).

The testimony of a witness on a document not pre-marked during pre-trial may be presented during trial if properly reserved pursuant to Rule 18 of the 2019 Rules of Civil Procedure.

Hence, an answer pertaining to the reserved document is not a ground for a motion to strike.

“On the other hand,… evidence competent for any purpose, and relevant to any issue, should not be stricken, and evidence which, although inadmissible at the time it is admitted, subsequently becomes admissible need not be stricken” (Francisco, Evidence citing 88 C.J.S. 269-273).

The timeliness of a motion to strike “may depend on the situation presented in a given case, and it has been declared that there should be no strict rule. However, inexcusable delay in moving to strike… is ground for denying the motion” (Francisco, Evidence citing 88 C.J.S. 282-283).

“Ordinarily a motion to strike objectionable testimony must be made at the time the testimony is given [when] the impropriety of the testimony is then apparent. If the impropriety of the testimony is not apparent[,] it should be made immediately after its impropriety becomes apparent, as where the ground for the exclusion of the evidence appears for the first time on cross-examination” (Francisco, Evidence citing 88 C.J.S. 282-283).

The motion to strike the answer must be made before the witness examination is terminated or concluded.

Thus, the motion can no longer be entertained when the examination of another witness has commenced, when the party has rested its case, or when the case is submitted for resolution.

The court has to rule on the motion to strike an answer in a timely manner. The ruling of the court if tainted with grave abuse of discretion amounting to lack or excess of jurisdiction may be questioned through a Petition for Certiorari under Rule 65.

Knowing how to move to strike an answer is important because it limits the presentation of evidence to material and relevant matters, and will prevent the court from rendering judgment based on muddled facts.

IT’S a tantalizing prospect: that the Philippines could soon acquire its firstever submarine as part of modernizing its armed forces.

If we do have our own submarine, we join the elite group of countries in Southeast Asia who already have this type of naval vessel, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Singapore.

The only question is: Can we afford it?

Perhaps the answer to that is: Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

And that seems to be what President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was thinking when he revealed last week that, yes, his administration wants to purchase a submarine so we can catch up with our neighbors in the region.

If four of our ASEAN partners have been able to prioritize the acquisition of submarines for their own defense, why can’t we? In the first place, we’re an archipelagic country with three main islands and some 7,000 plus small

We should beef up our naval defenses if we want to adequately protect our shores in the years ahead

ones. We cannot forever remain under the shadow of the US naval might in this part of the world and always rely on them for our own security.

And then there’s the urgent need to reinforce our naval capability to protect our national sovereignty and territorial integrity as well as our Exclusive Economic (EEZ) amid China’s aggressive actions of late in the South China Sea.

What’s important at this point is that the Marcos Jr. administration wants the country to achieve a credible defense posture, that is, to equip our armed forces with ample capability to defend the country on land, sea and air.

Thus far, the government cannot afford to buy outright a submarine as we’re focused on economic construction in the post-COVID-19

Macapagal

ONE of the most promising assets of the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is the newly appointed Chairman of the Philippine National Railways (PNR), Michael Macapagal. Although he was appointed only last May 2, Macapagal is already off to a great start as seen in the most recent project to be undertaken by the PNR under his watch.

Last week, Macapagal announced the start of the construction of the 147-kilometer NorthSouth Commuter Railway Project of the PNR. This railway project will connect the Clark commercial hub in Pampanga to Metropolitan Manila, and on to Calamba City in Laguna. Macapagal said the Asian Development Bank and the Japan International Cooperation Agency provided the money for the P873-billion undertaking. He is optimistic the investment is worthwhile because of the economic benefits a railway of this kind will bring to the country and the people. More specifically, travel time will be greatly reduced, which translates to less expenses for everyone. This way, employment opportunities will be available to provinces within the peripheries of Pampanga, Bulacan, Rizal, Cavite, Batangas and Laguna. The project consists of an elevated railway for commuters, and another at ground-level for cargo and freight. There will be three depots built at strategic points. More than 30 passenger terminals located at key areas of the route will make rail travel convenient and economical.

Acciona-DMCI and Leighton-First Balfour, both reputable engineering firms, won the contract for the construction of the railway project.

Japanese establishments Sumitomo Corporation and the Japan Transport Engineering Company have been contracted to supply the railway trains.

The contemplated fleet will consist of 13 electric trains, each consisting of more than a dozen coaches. Macapagal expects when the railway project is

Need to correct history

Wenceslao Gonzales General Vicente Alvarez Datu Uta Datu Ali

Amai Pakpak

A Big Job for PHC

Since this is a big job for the Philippine Historical Committee to correct the great error listing only the national heroes from Luzon in history books, I urge the PHC to push for the enactment of House Bill 1461, declaring the listed Mindanao heroes mentioned in the Philippine history books for the benefit of future generations to learn about national heroes from other parts of the archipelago.

And, my gulay, for the PHC to undertake studies on how these national heroes sacrificed themselves for the sake of the country.

I am married to the former Trinidad “Nining” Kapunan Capistrano whose grandfather was General Nicolas Capistrano of Cagayan de Oro.

I was able to get hold of a rather lengthy book written by a Jesuit, Fr. Francisco R. Demetrio, on the historical background of Mindanao heroes where the grandfather of my wife, General Nicolas Capistrano, was mentioned, and how he defended CDO from the Spanish and American colonizers, Santa Banana!

I take pride in having married a granddaughter of a Minanaoan hero.

To validate the heroism of my wife’s grandfather, there’s a street in CDO named General Nicolas Capistrano .

I believe Congressman Rodriguez should push through with his bill declaring the 12 Mindanaoans mentioned as national heroes to authenticate history, my gulay.

It’s time future generations also believed that aside from the national heroes from Luzon, there were also national heroes from Mindanao, some of whom were also Muslims, like Datu Uta, Datu Ali

I believe President Marcos Jr. should push for the PHC to undertake a research not only on heroes of the Visayas and Mindanao, but to detail what happened to those forgotten regions of the Philippines

and Amai Pakpak.

Nicolas Capistrano

My readings from the book “The Local Historical Sources of Northern Mindanao” by Fr. Francisco R. Demetrio, S.J. about its Mindanao heroes show that their contributions against Spanish and American colonizers were many and numerous. These heroes, like General Capistrano, repelled the American colonizers from taking over CDO.

Likewise, history told us that were it not for the heroism of the heroes from Mindanao, the Spanish and American colonizers would have also totally colonized Mindanao.

There were records showing the Muslims in Mindanao were never colonized.

It’s for these reasons that Mindanao was not totally colonized by foreign colonizers and the Muslims never really considered themselves part of the Philippines. That’s the reason there are efforts by the

constructed in full, about 800,000 passengers will be able to use the trains daily. Travel, he stressed, will be safe, convenient and comfortable.

The signing ceremonies for the project took place last April. President Marcos and Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista were present at the historic event.

Right after Macapagal was sworn in as PNR chairman by Secretary Bautista, Macapagal acknowledged that President Marcos will be known as the “Father of the Philippine railway system,” citing the President’s interest in modernizing and extending the railway systems in the Philippines.

Now that Macapagal is at the helm of the PNR, and with the support of President Marcos a matter of fact, Filipinos can look forward to a better railway system in the country

Macapagal stressed a modern and extensive railway system in the country will ease the transportation problem of many Filipinos, encourage business and industry in the provinces, reduce overhead expenses and stabilize the prices of prime commodities, and generate hundreds of thousands of jobs that will arise from the development.

Macapagal added that he is very grateful to President Marcos for the trust he reposed on him, and for the opportunity to be a part of the nation’s economic development and the modernization of the Philippine railway system.

“I am very grateful for this chance to be of

Muslims to separate from the republic.

It would do well for well-known legislators from Mindanao and the Visayas, particularly Vice President Sara Duterte, who is also Education secretary, to push for the Philippine Historical Commission to undertake a research to have the 12 heroes from these regions for the sake of history.

In the Senate, there are Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go and Ronald “Bato” de la Rosa , and of course Senate President Migz Zuburi.

I am certain that there are more heroes from the Visayas and Mindanao.

I don’t know much about the history of Mindanao except some bits and pieces I have read and told to me by friends from Mindanao, Santa Banana.

It’s a fact the Muslims were never colonized.

But, somehow, the Spanish colonizers were able to colonize the area of Zamboanga City where they built a fortress called Fort Pilar to ward off the Muslim pirates who frequently harassed the colonizers.

When the Americans came, they also occupied Zamboanga City.

The Americans tried to take over the Muslim areas but failed because the Muslims were fierce.

Recall that General Pershing had to have the 45 caliber automatic pistol invented because the “juramentados” could not be stopped by the ordinary handgun.

I also knew the Spanish-sounding names of the Filipinos who came from Zamboanga were because of the dialect “Chavacano” which was derived from a corrupted Spanish with a mixture of local Visaya.

It is for this reason the basic dialect in Cavite was a mixture of Tagalog and Spanish verbs because the Spanish colonizers preferred to stay in Cavite which was also a fort at that time.

The people who became billionaires in Mindanao were mostly immigrants from the Visayas and Luzon.

For now, we can only bolster the country’s antisubmarine capabilities.

It is true, as pointed out by the President, that getting our own submarine and operating it requires huge resources running into billions of pesos not only for the acquisition of the vessel itself, but also the training of officers and personnel.

But we have begun to get the ball rolling, so to speak, with preliminary discussions with several countries, such as France, and exploring possibilities for the manufacture of submarines for the Philippines.

In fact, French Ambassador to the Philippines Michèle Boccoz has confirmed that Paris is in an “ongoing discussion” with the Marcos administration since last year regarding the purchase of our first submarine.

Our Navy has also started sending personnel to France for training before procuring the submarines.

The Philippines is an archipelago with one of the world’s longest coastlines.

At the same time, we have territorial disputes with some of our neighbors.

We should beef up our naval defenses if we want to adequately protect our shores in the years ahead.

service in a vital industry of the nation. It is my fervent wish to live up to the trust reposed in me by President Marcos, and to be of service to the people,” Macapagal added.

Macapagal’s academic credentials and business experience are very impressive.

After graduating from the University of the Philippines in the 1990s, Macapagal obtained gainful employment in a number of local industries.

Soon after that, he went to the United States for specialized work in finance and related pursuits. Macapagal found his comfort zone in the San Francisco Bay Area in California where he worked as division chief of Stewart Title Company, an American title insurance firm that has been around since 1893. This company is one of the biggest underwriters in the world. Despite the opportunities available to him as a corporate officer in America, Macapagal decided to return to the Philippines and make a living in his homeland. Eventually, he became a director of the Clark Development Corporation in Pampanga; the point man of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone in Zambales; and a member of the governing board of the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC), which was established by the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos in 1973 to stabilize the supply of oil and petroleum in the country.

After his stint in the PNOC, Macapagal was offered the PNR post.

Macapagal is a native of Olongapo City. His late father, Atty. Teddy Macapagal, was the most well-known litigation lawyer of the city, and served as city mayor in 1986. He inherited his keen interest in public service work from his dad.

Hopefully, the Pampanga-Metropolitan Manila-Laguna railway project will be just the first of many more worthwhile railway projects Macapagal will be attending to during his watch as PNR Chairman.

Now that Macapagal is at the helm of the PNR, and with the support of President Marcos a matter of fact, Filipinos can look forward to a better railway system in the country.

PNR Chairman

is an asset to President Marcos

IN BRIEF

2 children killed in strike on Kyiv

RUSSIA launched an air attack on Kyiv early Thursday, killing at least three people including two children and bringing fresh terror to the city after a week of strikes.

Moscow’s forces have recently launched a series of aerial assaults on the Ukrainian capital, including an unusual daytime attack on Monday that sent residents running for shelter.

Thursday’s attack began around 3:00 am local time (0000 GMT) when cruise and ballistic missiles were fired on the city, killing three people and injuring 10 others, officials said.

“Among the three dead in the Desnyansky district, there were two children (aged 5-6 and 12-13),” the Kyiv City Military Administration wrote on Telegram.

In Russia’s western Belgorod region, at least two people were wounded Thursday morning in an attack blamed on Ukrainian troops, governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said on Telegram.

“This night is tense for Shebekino again. Ukrainian troops were shelling the city for an hour,” he said.

Russia said Wednesday it was evacuating hundreds of children from villages due to intensifying shelling in the border region of Belgorod, where the situation was deemed “alarming” by the Kremlin. AFP

Ex-Liberia warlord faces appeal ruling

A SWISS appeals court will on Thursday hand down its verdict in the case of a former Liberian warlord accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Alieu Kosiah was found guilty in June 2021 of multiple atrocities committed during the first of Liberia’s back-to-back civil wars, in which around 250,000 people died between 1989 and 2003.

Switzerland’s Federal Criminal Court in the southern city of Bellinzona found him “guilty of violating the laws of war.”

The verdict marked the first time a Liberian was convicted – either within the west African nation or anywhere else – of war crimes committed during the conflict.

Kosiah, who settled in Switzerland in 1998 and was arrested in the country in 2014, appealed the verdict.

The 48-year-old maintains he is innocent and has requested a full acquittal.

“He has always contested the facts,” his lawyer Dimitri Gianoli told AFP. “He is confident he will be acquitted.” AFP

‘Unfortunate China declined talks’

Beijing’s decision to decline a meeting between US and Chinese defence chiefs is “unfortunate,” particularly given recent “provocative” Chinese behaviour, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Thursday.

The comments come days after Washington accused Beijing of an “unnecessarily aggressive maneuver” near a US surveillance aircraft.

Washington had invited China’s Minister of National Defense Li Shangfu to hold talks with Austin on the sidelines of a defence summit in Singapore this week.

But Beijing declined the meeting, with a spokeswoman saying “the US knows clearly why there are currently difficulties in military communication.”

In Tokyo on a brief trip before his arrival in Singapore, Austin called that decision “unfortunate.”

“You’ve heard me talk a number of times about the importance of countries

with large, with significant capabilities, being able to talk to each other so you can manage crises and prevent things from spiralling out of control unnecessarily,” Austin said.

Recent “provocative intercepts of our aircraft and also our allies’ aircraft” by China were “very concerning,” he added.

“I’m concerned about at some point having an incident that could very, very quickly spiral out of control.”

The US military said Tuesday that a Chinese fi ghter pilot had performed an “unnecessarily aggressive maneuver” near an American surveillance aircraft operating over the South China Sea last week.

Video footage released by the US military shows a Chinese fighter plane crossing in front of the American aircraft, which could be seen shaking from the resulting turbulence.

But China’s military said the US jet “broke into” a military training area.

It said the dispatch of ships and planes to “conduct close surveillance on China seriously harms China’s national sovereignty and security.”

Austin and other US officials have been working to shore up alliances and partnerships in Asia to counter Beijing, but there have also been tentative signs the two sides are working to patch their relationship. US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi in Vienna this month, and President Joe Biden has said ties between Washington and Beijing should thaw “very shortly.” Austin said Thursday he “would welcome any opportunity to engage with leadership.”

“Defence departments should be talking to each other on a routine basis,” he added.

Austin met Thursday with Japan’s foreign and defence ministers, and is due to speak with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida before leaving for Singapore.

He said the US-Japan alliance faced a raft of “common challenges,” including China’s “coercive behavior, North Korea’s dangerous provocations and Russia’s cruel war of choice in Ukraine.”

“But we are united by our shared interests and shared values. And we are taking important steps to modernise our alliances and strengthen our deterrence,” he added.

He cited trilateral cooperation with Australia and South Korea as well as the expanded “pace, scope and scale” of exercises and training.

The two militaries are also cooperating on advanced tech including “hypersonics, autonomous systems for teaming with fighter jets, and advanced air defence systems,” he added. AFP

N. Korea to put spy satellite into orbit soon—Kim’s sister

NORTH Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s powerful sister said Thursday that Pyongyang would “correctly” place a spy satellite into orbit soon, a day after their first attempt crashed.

Pyongyang has pitched its military satellite as a necessary counterbalance to the growing US military presence in the region, pointing to Washington’s ongoing joint drills with Seoul as one example of many.

North Korea’s new Chollima-1 rocket lost thrust and plunged into the sea with its satellite payload on Wednesday, state media said in a rare same-day announcement following the failed launch.

Pyongyang also released photographs of what it said was the new Chollima-1 rocket taking off from a seaside launch site surrounded by flames and smoke.

The rocket—named after a mythical winged horse that often appears in Pyongyang’s propaganda—featured a bulbous nose, apparently used to carry the satellite payload.

The United States, South Korea and Japan slammed the launch, saying it violated UN resolutions barring Pyongyang from any tests using ballistic missile technology.

Kim Yo Jong said such critiques were a “self-contradiction,” given that the United States and other nations have already launched “thousands of satellites.”

LACK OF WATER KILLS. People take part in a protest called by Uruguay's Central Union (PIT-CNT) in 'defense of water' against the handling of the national authorities with respect to the management of the shortage of drinking water reserves in Montevideo. The state-owned company Obras Sanitarias del Estado (OSE) decided to increase for the second time the levels of salinity in the water at the beginning of May to make the reserves last even longer due to the persistent drought that is a ecting Uruguay. AFP shall constitute a quorum. For purposes of determining the existence of a quorum, the Speaker, the Deputy Speakers, the Majority Leader, the Deputy Majority Leaders, the Minority Leader and the Deputy Minority Leaders or the Members deputized by them shall be added to the total number of committee or sub-committee members, as the case may be, if they are present in a meeting. In cases of joint referrals, a quorum must be present in each of the committees concerned.

Kim Yo Jong, who also serves as a spokesperson for the regime, said a second attempt would soon be made.

“It is certain that the DPRK’s military reconnaissance satellite will be correctly put on space orbit in the near future and start its mission,” she said Thursday, referring to North Korea by its official name.

“The US is a group of gangsters who would claim that even if the DPRK launches a satellite in space orbit through a balloon, it is illegal and threatening,” she said in a statement carried by the Korean Central News Agency. AFP

RULES OF PROCEDURE GOVERNING INQUIRIES IN AID OF LEGISLATION OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

two (2) postponements of appearance before the committee without justifiable cause.

Section 7. Executive Sessions.—If the committee or subcommittee deems that the subject matter of the discussion in a public hearing may endanger national security or may be offensive to decency or public morals, it shall conduct the examination in an executive session.

Attendance in executive sessions shall be limited to Members of the committee, the committee secretariat staff and such other persons whose presence are required or allowed by the Chairperson.

Testimony taken or evidence presented in an executive session, or any summary or excerpt thereof or documents related thereto, in whole or in part, shall not be made public, unless authorized by a majority vote of the Members present, there being a quorum.

Section 8. Attendance of Witnesses.—The committee shall have the power to issue subpoena ad testificandum and subpoena duces tecum to witnesses in any part of the country, signed by the Chairperson or acting Chairperson and the Speaker or acting Speaker. However, if the committee is unable to secure the signature of the Speaker or acting Speaker on a subpoena ad testificandum and/or subpoena duces tecum, it may request the Committee on Rules to act on the matter. Upon the recommendation of the Committee on Rules through a majority vote of all its Members after determining that the attendance of a witness is indispensable to the effective conduct of the inquiry, the Speaker shall issue a subpoena ad testificandum and/or a subpoena duces tecum to compel the attendance of a witness.

Within Metro Manila, subpoena ad testificandum and subpoena duces tecum shall be served by the Sergeant-at-Arms or his duly authorized deputies. Outside Metro Manila, service of these processes may be made by the appropriate police officer or authority of the town or city upon request of the Secretary General.

Subpoena shall be served to a witness at least three (3) days before a scheduled hearing in order to give the witness every opportunity to prepare for the hearing and to employ counsel, should the witness desire. The subpoena shall be accompanied by a notice stating that should a witness wish to confer with the secretary of the committee prior to the date of the hearing, the witness shall convey such desire to the committee by mail, telephone or any other electronic communication device

Section 9. Rights and Duties of Witnesses. The rights of witnesses including their right against self-incrimination shall be respected.

Witnesses who are not government officials summoned by the committee shall be entitled, upon their request and subject to the approval of the Speaker, to reasonable transportation expenses and such other amounts as may be deemed necessary for their stay in Metro Manila.

Witnesses shall testify under oath to be administered by the Chairperson or by any other person authorized by law.

A witness shall be limited to giving information relevant and germane to the subject matter under investigation. The committee shall rule upon the admissibility of any testimony or information presented by a witness. Privileged communications shall be respected. Any witness desiring to deliver or present a prepared or written statement before the committee shall file a copy of such statement, under oath, with the secretary of the committee within forty-eight (48) hours before the hearing at which the statement is to be delivered or presented.

statements or portions thereof that are relevant and germane to the subject of the investigation may, at the conclusion of the testimony of the witness, and upon approval by a majority vote of the Members of the committee, a quorum being present, be inserted into the official transcript of the proceedings.

Section 10. Rights and Duties of Persons Affected by a Hearing.—Where applicable, any person named in a public hearing or in the released record of testimonies given in executive sessions, who has not been previously so named shall, within a reasonable time thereafter, be notified of such fact by registered letter, return receipt requested, to the address of such person last known to the committee. The notice shall include:

a.a statement that the person has been so named;

b.date and place of hearing where the person was named;

c.name of the person who testified; and

d.information that a copy of the Rules of Procedure Governing Inquiries in Aid of Legislation is available for the perusal of such person in the House.

Any person so notified who believes that one’s character or reputation was adversely affected may, within seven (7) days after receipt of said notice:

a.communicate with the secretary of the committee; and/or

b.request to appear in person before the committee in public session and give testimony, at the expense of the concerned person.

Any person testifying under the foregoing provisions shall be accorded the same privileges as any other witness appearing before the committee, and may be questioned concerning any matter relevant and germane to the subject of the investigation

Section 11. Contempt.—The committee may punish any person for contempt, by a vote of two-thirds (2/3) of the Members present, there being a quorum. The following shall be grounds for citing any person in contempt:

a.refusal without legal excuse to obey summons;

b.refusal to be sworn or placed under affirmation;

c.refusal to answer any relevant inquiry;

d.refusal to produce any books, papers, documents or records that are relevant to the inquiry and are in the possession of the concerned person;

e.acting in a disrespectful manner towards any Member of the committee or any misbehavior in the presence of the committee; or f. undue interference in the conduct of proceedings.

Contempt of the committee shall be deemed contempt of the House. The person cited in this section may, upon order of the committee, be detained in such place as the Chairperson or Acting Chairperson may designate.

Section 12. Penalty. By a vote of two-thirds (2/3) of the Members present, there being a quorum, those cited under Section 11, paragraphs (e) and (f) shall be detained for a period not exceeding ten (10) days in a place designated by the Chairperson or acting Chairperson under the custody of the Sergeant-at-Arms.

Section 13. Appearance of Counsel.—The person at whose instance the inquiry was initiated may be represented by counsel.

A witness shall be informed by the committee or subcommittee of the right to be represented by counsel. When informed by a witness of the desire to be represented by counsel or when such witness requests to be represented by counsel, the committee or sub-committee may provide a counsel de officio or allow such witness to choose own counsel and be assisted by the same.

participation of counsel for the witness during the hearing and while the witness is testifying shall be limited to

of such witness shall be heard.

Section 14. Safekeeping and Release of Record of Testimonies of Witnesses.—The testimony of witnesses shall be recorded verbatim. Records of testimonies given in executive sessions shall be placed in the custody of the Secretary General who shall ensure their preservation and confidentiality. A witness or the counsel of such witness may obtain transcripts of any public testimony of witnesses from the secretary of the committee at the expense of the witness and upon written request duly approved by the committee chairperson.

No committee report, an excerpt or summary statement of the contents thereof, or any publication related thereto, shall be released by any Member of the committee and its secretariat staff prior to the inclusion of the report in the Calendar of Business.

Section 15. Termination of Inquiry.—The committee shall terminate an inquiry, and submit a report thereon within sixty (60) calendar days from the date of commencement unless the committee, by a majority vote of members present, there being a quorum, deems it necessary to extend such inquiry. The inquiry commences on the date of referral of the privilege speech, resolution or petition or information to the concerned committee.

Section 16. Report of Committee.—The report shall contain the findings of the committee on the subject matter of the inquiry, the grounds on which its findings are based and its recommendations, if any. The report shall be approved by a majority vote of the Members present, there being a quorum. Members who vote against the approval of the report and who do not sign the majority report may make concurring or dissenting opinions.

The report, together with any concurring and dissenting opinion, shall be filed with the Secretary General who shall include the same in the Order of Business within three (3) days from receipt thereof.

In case of joint inquiry, the committees concerned shall be jointly responsible for submitting the report to the House on the measure referred to them for consideration. The first committee mentioned in the joint referral shall be the lead committee and shall be principally responsible for preparing the report to the House: Provided, That the committees may decide to designate which committee among them shall prepare the report.

Section 17. Plenary Action on the Report.—The report, upon inclusion in the Order of Business, shall be referred to the Committee on Rules for appropriate action. The Committee on Rules shall, thereafter, include the report in the Calendar of Business.

Upon inclusion of the report in the Calendar of Business, the Plenary may approve or adopt, disapprove or reject, in whole or in part, the report and its recommendation(s) or commit it to the archives. Section 18. Internal Rules.—The committee tasked to conduct an inquiry may adopt internal rules of procedure: Provided, That these rules are consistent with the Rules of the House and to these

BTS agency employees accused of insider trading

SEOUL, South Korea—Three employees at HYBE, the agency behind K-pop megastars BTS, have been accused of insider trading by South Korea’s financial watchdog over share sales before the group’s bombshell “hiatus” announcement.

In a YouTube video posted on June 14 last year, BTS’ band members told fans they were taking a break from the supergroup to focus on their solo careers, citing exhaustion and the pressures of their stratospheric success.

The company’s share price fell nearly 25 percent when the market opened the day after the announcement, wiping nearly 2 trillion won ($1.5 billion) of its value.

Three HYBE employees, whose identities have been withheld, had prior knowledge of the an -

nouncement and sold their shares before it was made public, pocketing hundreds of millions of won illegally, the Financial Supervisory Service said in a statement Wednesday.

“We referred the three officials, one of whom is a team leader, to the prosecution with the opinion that they should be indicted,” the watchdog said.

The watchdog also criticized HYBE for making the market-moving announcement in a YouTube video rather than an official statement or regulatory filing, which they said had “aggravated investors’ confusion”.

Entertainment agencies should have a system where important information for investors is made public “transparently and through a

Stock market declines; ICTSI leads advancers

STOCKS fell for a third day, as traders turn their attention to the Federal Reserve’s next policy meeting and China’s struggling economy.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index shed 46 points, or 0.72 percent, to close at 6,430.58 as three of the six subsectors retreated. It was also down 2.07 percent since the start of the year.

The heavier index representing all shares also fell 14 points, or 0.42 percent, to settle at 3,443.85, on a value turnover of P5.41 billion. Losers outnumbered gainers 105 to 78, while 50 shares were unchanged.

right channel”, it said. While BTS cited exhaustion as a reason for its decision to suspend group activity, many analysts said the hiatus was strategic, with South Korea’s mandatory 18-month military service looming for individual band members.

All South Korean able-bodied men under the age of 30 must perform around two years of military service, mainly because the country remains technically at war with nuclear-armed North Korea. Two of the celebrity septet’s members, Jin and J-Hope, enlisted in the army in December 2022 and April this year respectively, with the remaining five expected to follow in the years—or months—ahead.

HYBE did not respond to an AFP request for comment. AFP

Only three of the 10 most active stocks ended in the green, led by International Container Terminal Services Inc. which climbed 3.08 percent to P201.00. PLDT Inc. rose 0.75 percent to P1,209.00 while BDO Unibank Inc. went up 0.74 percent to P137.00.

Analysts expect the stock market to rebound in the second half. Mark Canizares, head of equities at Manulife Investment Management and Trust Corp. said the moderating inflation would provide support to local share prices going into the second half of the year.

“Rate-sensitive sectors such as residential property will likely benefit from this tailwind. Domestic consumption, which benefitted as the country reopened, will likely get some support as well from easing prices, as raw material and other input costs moderate,” he said.

“Should the trend of deceleration continue in the second half, the local market’s focus will likely shift to when interest rates will peak and eventually

decline. Lower rates historically help drive a rally in equity markets,” said Canizares.

Most Asian markets traded lower Thursday. After weeks of brinkmanship, Democrats and Republicans came together to push through an agreement to lift the debt ceiling in rare bipartisan cooperation.

Hardline Republicans had warned they would shoot the deal down, saying it did not have enough spending cuts, and some Democrats were also angry at the reductions made.

The bill now goes to the Senate before President Joe Biden can sign it off, allowing the government to borrow more cash to service its mammoth debts.

Failure to do so before the cash run out—said to be June 5—would have resulted in a default that many warned would hammer the global economy and markets.

After the vote, Biden said in a statement: “Tonight, the House took a critical step forward to prevent a first-ever default and protect our country’s hardearned and historic economic recovery.

“The only path forward is a bipartisan compromise.”

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who drew up the deal with Biden after weeks of wrangling, said: “Passing the Fiscal Responsibility Act is a crucial first step for putting America back on track.

“It does what is responsible for our children, what is possible in divided government, and what is required by our principles and promises.” With AFP

RULES OF PROCEDURE IN IMPEACHMENT PROCEEDINGS

answer the complaint within ten (10) days from receipt of notice thereof and serve a copy of the answer to the complainant(s). No motion to dismiss shall be allowed within the period to answer the complaint.

The answer, which shall be under oath, may include affirmative defenses. If the respondent fails or refuses to file an answer within the reglementary period, the respondent is deemed to have interposed a general denial to the complaint. Within three (3) days from receipt of the answer, the complainant may file a reply, serving a copy thereof to the respondent who may file a rejoinder within three (3) days from receipt of the reply, serving a copy thereof to the complainant. If the complainant fails to file a reply, all the material allegations in the answer are deemed controverted. Together with their pleadings, the parties shall file their affidavits or counter-affidavits, as the case may be, with their documentary evidence. Such affidavits or counteraffidavits shall be subscribed before the Chairperson of the Committee on Justice or the Secretary General. Notwithstanding all the foregoing, failure to file an answer will not preclude the respondent from presenting evidence to support the defenses.

When there are more than one respondent, each shall be furnished with a copy of the verified complaint of a Member of the House or a copy of the verified complaint of a private citizen together with the resolution of endorsement thereof by a Member of the House of Representatives and a written notice to answer. In this case, reference to respondent in these Rules shall be understood as respondents.

Section 7. Submission of Evidence and Memoranda.—After receipt of the pleadings, affidavits and counter-affidavits and relevant documents provided for in Section 6, or the expiration of the time within which they may be filed, the Committee shall determine whether the complaint alleges sufficient grounds for impeachment.

B. HOUSE ACTION

Section 11. Vote Required for Approval.—A vote of at least one-third (1/3) of all the Members of the House is necessary for the approval of the resolution setting forth the Articles of Impeachment. If the resolution is approved by the required vote, it shall then be endorsed to the Senate.

On the other hand, should the resolution fail to secure approval by the required vote, it shall result in the dismissal of the complaint for impeachment.

Section 12. Where Dismissal Recommended.—When the report of the Committee on Justice dismisses the complaint, it shall submit to the House a resolution for the dismissal of the verified complaint and/or resolution of impeachment. A vote of at least one-third (1/3) of all the Members of the House shall be necessary to override such resolution, in which case the Committee on Justice shall forthwith prepare the Articles of Impeachment.

Section 13. Vote by Roll Call.—The voting on a resolution with the Articles of Impeachment of the Committee on Justice or a contrary resolution dismissing the impeachment complaint shall be by roll call, and the Secretary General shall record the vote of each Member.

RULE IV Verified Complaint/Resolution by One-Third of Members

Section 14. Endorsement of the Complaint/Resolution to the Senate.—A verified complaint/resolution of impeachment filed by at least one-third (1/3) of all the Members of the House shall constitute the Articles of Impeachment, and in this case the verified complaint/resolution shall be endorsed to the Senate in the same manner as an approved bill of the House.

of the Secretary General and immediately referred to the Speaker.

An impeachment complaint is verified by an affidavit that the complainant has read the complaint and that the allegations therein are true and correct of his personal knowledge or based on authentic records.

An impeachment complaint required to be verified which contains a verification based on “information and belief”, or upon “knowledge, information and belief,” or lacks a proper verification, shall be treated as an unsigned impeachment complaint.

The Speaker shall have it included in the Order of Business within ten (10) session days from receipt. It shall then be referred to the Committee on Justice within three (3) session days thereafter.

RULE III

Finding Probable Cause for Impeachment

A. COMMITTEE PROCEEDINGS

Section 4. Determination of Sufficiency in Form.—Upon due referral, the Committee on Justice shall determine whether the complaint is sufficient in form. If the committee finds that the complaint is insufficient in form, it shall return the same to the Secretary General within three (3) session days with a written explanation of the insufficiency. The Secretary General shall return the same to the complainant(s) together with the committee’s written explanation within three (3) session days from receipt of the committee resolution finding the complaint insufficient in form.

Section 5. Determination of Sufficiency in Substance.—Should the committee find the complaint sufficient in form, it shall then determine if the complaint is sufficient in substance. The requirement of substance is met if there is a recital of facts constituting the offense charged and determinative of the jurisdiction of the committee. If the committee finds that the complaint is not sufficient in substance, it shall dismiss the complaint and shall submit its report as provided hereunder.

Section 6. Notice to Respondents and Time to Plead.—If the committee finds the complaint sufficient in form and substance, it shall immediately furnish the respondent(s) with a copy of the resolution and/or verified complaint, as the case may be, with written notice that the respondent shall 1 The Supreme Court decision in Francisco et al. vs. House of Representatives (GR No. 160261, 10 November 2003), states that Impeachment proceedings are initiated upon filing of the complaint and/or resolution and its referral to the Committee on Justice.

If it finds that sufficient grounds for impeachment do not exist, the Committee shall dismiss the complaint and submit the report required hereunder. If the Committee finds that sufficient grounds for impeachment exist, the Committee shall conduct a hearing. The Committee, through the Chairperson, may limit the period of examination and cross-examination by members of the Committee. The Committee shall have the power to issue compulsory processes for the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents and other related evidence.

Hearings before the Committee shall be open to the public except when the security of the State or public interest requires that the hearings be held in executive session.

After the submission of evidence, the Committee may require the submission of memoranda, after which the matter shall be submitted for resolution.

Section 8. Protection to Complainants or Witnesses.—The House may, upon proper petition, provide adequate protection to a complainant or witness if it is shown that the personal safety of the complainant or witness is in jeopardy because of participating in the impeachment proceeding.

Section 9. Report and Recommendation.—The Committee on Justice after hearing, and by a majority vote of all its Members, shall submit its report to the House containing its findings and recommendations within sixty (60) session days from the referral to it of the verified complaint and/or resolution. Together with the report shall be a formal resolution of the Committee regarding the disposition of the complaint which shall be calendared for consideration by the House within ten (10) session days from receipt thereof.

If the Committee finds by a vote of the majority of all its Members that a probable cause exists on the basis of the evidence adduced before the Committee, it shall submit with its report a resolution setting forth the Articles of Impeachment. Otherwise, the complaint shall be dismissed subject to Section 12 of these Rules.

Section 10. Report to be Calendared.—The Committee on Rules shall calendar the report and the accompanying resolution of the Committee on Justice regarding the disposition of the complaint in accordance with the Rules of the House of Representatives. The House shall dispose of the report within sixty (60) session days from its submission by the Committee on Justice.

The complaint/resolution must, at the time of filing, be verified and sworn to before the Secretary General by each of the Members constituting at least one-third (1/3) of all the Members of the House.

The contents of the verification shall be as follows:

“We, after being sworn in accordance with law, depose and state: That we are the complainants in the above-entitled complaint/resolution of impeachment; that we have caused the said complaint/resolution to be prepared and have read the contents thereof; and that the allegations therein are true of our own knowledge and belief on the basis of our reading and appreciation of documents and other records pertinent thereto.

______________” (Signature)

RULE V Bar Against Impeachment

Section 15. Scope of Bar.—No impeachment proceeding shall be initiated against the same official more than once within a period of one (1) year.

RULE VI Prosecutor in All Impeachment Proceedings

Section 16. Impeachment Prosecutor.—The House of Representatives shall act as the prosecutor at the trial in the Senate through a committee of eleven (11) Members thereof to be elected by a majority vote of the Members present, there being a quorum.

RULE VII Applicability of the Rules of Court

Section 17. Rules of Procedure.—The Rules of Court shall, as far as practicable, apply to impeachment proceedings before the House.

Adopted, May 30, 2023

RENEWABLE ENERGY. Solar panels of a house and wind turbines are pictured in Lichtenau, western Germany on May 31, 2023. AFP

By Jenniffer B. Austria

MREIT Inc., the real estate investment trust company of Megaworld Corp., said Thursday it plans to acquire seven office towers with combined leasable space of 150,000 square meters.

The acquisitions will boost MREIT’s portfolio by 46 percent to 475,000 sq. m. from the 325,000 sq. m. and bringing the company closer to its target of having 500,000 sq. m. of assets under management by end2024, the company in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

The new office towers to be acquired are in the cities of Taguig, Iloilo and Davao. These properties are owned by Megaworld.

The office towers include Two West Campus with 9,500 sq. m. and Ten West Campus (36,400 sq. m.) in McKinley Hill; Science Hub Tower 3 (20,500 sq. m.) and Science Hub Tower 4 (20,700 sq. m.) in McKinley West; One Fintech Place (18,200 sq. m.) and Two Fintech Place (18,100 sq. m.) in Iloilo Business Park; and Davao Finance Center (27,100 sq. m.) in Davao Park District.

These assets generated P1.2 billion in rental income last year.

MREIT president and chief executive Kevin Tan said these properties have high average occupancy rate of 94 percent and quality tenants, “marking a significant step towards our commitment to deliver sustained growth and value to our investors.”

Tan said MREIT would conduct a comprehensive financial, legal and

technical due diligence to ensure the viability of the assets. It plans to execute definitive agreement within the third quarter of 2023.

“We look forward to finalizing MREIT’s next set of acquisitions soon,” Tan said.

The Securities and Exchange Commission approved MREIT’s acquisition of four prime office building with total leasable area of 44,567 sq. m. in March.

Since its initial public offering in 2021, MREIT has injected eight office buildings into its portfolio and grew its value by 25 percent to P62 billion.

MREIT’s portfolio covers 18 office properties in four Megaworld premier townships.

MREIT, real estate investment trust company, engages in investments in income-generating real estate that meets a select set of criteria.

The Philippine Stock Exchange defined an REIT as a stock corporation established principally for the purpose of owning income-generating real estate assets.

MREIT reported a distributable income of P2.5 billion in 2022, or more than double the P1.1 billion it declared in 2021 as revenues grew to P3.6 billion from P1.5 billion.

The company paid out total dividends of P0.9770 per share in 2022.

and construction through First Balfour Inc.; and health services through Asian Eye Institute, Pi Health Inc. and newly acquired The Medical Services of America (Philippines) Inc.

First Gen unit, Prime Infra sign MOU on LNG terminal

fields.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

FGEN LNG Corp. of the Lopez Group

and Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc. of businessman Enrique Razon Jr. signed Thursday a memorandum of understanding for the proposed lease and operation of the liquefied natural gas storage and regasificaton terminal being developed by the former at the First Gen Clean Energy Complex in Batangas City.

Manila Standard TODAY

First Gen is developing the LNG terminal in Batangas that is set to start commercial operations this year to cater to natural gas power plants in Batangas.

“The lease of the LNG terminal will form part of Prime Infra’s proposed gas aggregation strategy that is focused on leveraging its existing Malampaya project facilities and its expertise in the

natural gas market to ensure a reliable and lowest cost supply of clean gas at stable fuel costs to the country’s natural gas power plants,” First Gen said in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

“The agreement embodies a mutual recognition by both FGEN LNG and Prime Infra of the need to ensure a steady and secure source of natural gas providing low-cost and sustainable baseload power through gas aggregation,” the company said.

First Gen said the aggregator enables the formation of a competitive gas market underpinned by the growth of the natural gas power generation capacity in line with Department of Energy’s power development plan, the availability of LNG as a new fuel source and the exploration for and commercial development of new indigenous natural gas

MREIT acquiring 7 Megaworld office towers IN BRIEF

It said this is in response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s urgent call for significant undertakings to ensure national competitiveness.

The Department of Energy certified the FGEN LNG terminal as an energy project of national significance on Aug. 5, 2019. The agency is pushing for natural gas as a complementary transition fuel under the 2020-2040 Philippine Energy Plan to ensure energy security, while enhancing the renewable energy capacity of the country.

President Marcos recently approved the renewal agreement for Malampaya Service Contract No. 38, allowing the continued production of the Malampaya gas field and ensuring that the remaining gas reserves are further explored and utilized until Feb. 22, 2039.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING

NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING

To all stockholders:

To all stockholders:

Guimaras Mangoes awarded GI mark

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the 2023 Annual Stockholders’Meeting (“ASM”) of MACAY HOLDINGS, INC. (“Macay” or the “Company”) will be held on Wednesay, June 28, 2023, 2:00pm to be conducted virtually from 137 Yakal Street, San Antonio Village, Makati City, Philippines due to the COVID-19 pandemic situation to discuss the following agenda:

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the 2023 Annual Stockholders’Meeting (“ASM”) of MACAY HOLDINGS, INC. (“Macay” or the “Company”) will be held on Wednesday, June 28, 2023, 2:00pm to be conducted virtually from 137 Yakal Street, San Antonio Village, Makati City, Philippines due to the COVID-19 pandemic situation to discuss the following agenda:

(1) Call to Order

(1) Call to Order

(2) Proof of Required Notice of Meeting and Determination of Quorum

(2) Proof of Required Notice of Meeting and Determination of Quorum

(3) Reading and Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders Meeting held on 28 July 2022

THE Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines approved the application of the Guimaras Mangoes as the country’s first registered geographical indication.

A GI serves as a marketing tool that accentuates a product’s distinctiveness and appealing narratives. A GI seal certifies a link between the quality, characteristics and reputation of a product and its geographical source. These factors may have been shaped due to environmental influences, such as soil and climate, or human factors such as tradition and local know-how.

“We see great potential of the system not only in spreading development outside our bustling metropolitan areas, but also in ensuring that the people of the originating locality benefit from their produce,” said IPOPHL deputy director-general Ann Claire Cabochan.

(3) Reading and Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders Meeting held on 28 July 2022

(4) Presentation of Annual Report and Financial Statements of the Preceding Year

(4) Presentation of Annual Report and Financial Statements of the Preceding Year

(5) Ratification of Acts and Proceedings of the Board of Directors and Management in 2022-2023

“Now with the GI seal, we hope local prices will double. So additional income for farmers,” said Guimaras Mango Growers and Producers Development Cooperative president Felipe Gamarcha, referring to the farm gate price of Guimaras Mangoes which averaged P200 in 2022. This marks an astronomical rise from the P20 to P50/kilo price of the commodity before the association secured a collective mark. Othel V. Campos

(5) Action on Acts and Proceedings of the Board of Directors and Management in 2022-2023

(6) Appointment of Inspectors of Election to Serve Until the Close of the Next Annual Meeting

(6) Appointment of Inspectors of Election to Serve Until the Close of the Next Annual Meeting

MPIC defers vote on voluntary delisting

(7) Appointment of External Auditor, for 2023-2024

(7) Appointment of External Auditor, for 2023-2024

(8) Election of Directors, including Independent Directors, for 2023-2024

(9) Other Matters

(8) Election of Directors, including Independent Directors, for 20232024

(9) Other Matters

(10) Adjournment

(10) Adjournment

Only stockholders of record as of June 5, 2023 are entitled to notice of, and to vote at this annual meeting.

Only stockholders of record as of June 5, 2023 are entitled to notice of, and to vote at this annual meeting.

In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic and to ensure the safety of those involved, the Company stockholders may only participate in the meeting by remote communication, in absentia or by appointing proxies.

In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic and to ensure the safety of those involved, the Company stockholders may only participate in the meeting by remote communication, in absentia or by appointing proxies.

Stockholders with the intention to participate in the virtual meeting are advised to pre-register at asmpreregistration@macayholdings. com.ph and vote on or before June 18, 2023. The requirements are on the Company’s Information Statement. If no response to the preregistration please call +632.8893.0733.

Stockholders with the intention to participate in the virtual meeting are advised to pre-register at asmpreregistration@macayholdings. com.ph and vote on or before June 18, 2023. The requirements are on the Company’s Information Statement. If no response to the preregistration please call +632.8893.0733.

Electronic Voting in Absentia

Electronic Voting in Absentia

All agenda items will be made available to the stockholders. Stockholders can vote on each agenda item and may choose to vote “Vote for Approval”, “Vote Against” or “Abstain”

All agenda items will be made available to the stockholders. Stockholders can vote on each agenda item and may choose to vote “Vote for Approval”, “Vote Against” or “Abstain”

For the election of directors, a stockholder may distribute his votes equally among all the nominees or cast such number of votes for each nominee as preferred by the stockholder, provided that the total number of votes cast shall not exceed the number of shares owned by the stockholder, multiplied by the number of directors to be elected.

For the election of directors, a stockholder may distribute his votes equally among all the nominees or cast such number of votes for each nominee as preferred by the stockholder, provided that the total number of votes cast shall not exceed the number of shares owned by the stockholder, multiplied by the number of directors to be elected.

The Office of the Corporate Secretary, with the assistance of STSI representatives, will count and tabulate the votes cast in absentia together with the votes cast by proxy.

The Office of the Corporate Secretary, with the assistance of STSI representatives, will count and tabulate the votes cast in absentia together with the votes cast by proxy.

INFRASTRUCTURE conglomerate Metro Pacific Investments Corp. said Thursday it will defer the shareholders vote on the planned voluntary delisting from the local bourse pending the completion of valuation report.

The move also delayed the start of the tender offer period which was initially scheduled to commence in May.

MPIC said in a disclosure to the stock exchange it received a request from a consortium of bidders that were planning to take the company private to defer the shareholders’ vote on voluntary delisting as the much awaited fairness opinion and valuation report was not yet finalized.

An independent firm will issue the fairness opinion and valuation report. The consortium consists of Metro Pacific Holdings Inc., GT Capital Holdings Inc., Mit-Pacific Infrastructure Holdings Inc. of Japan’s Mitsui and MIG Holdings Inc. of MPIC chairman Manuel Pangilinan.

MPIC was originally planning to seek shareholders’ approval on the planned delisting during the company’s annual stockholders meeting on June 6. Jenniffer B. Austria

Globe supports Connectivity Index

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said Thursday it is supporting the creation of a national Connectivity Index Rating, which sets a standard for internet quality.

The proposed connectivity index aims to establish a standard for the quality of internet connectivity in public and private buildings, contributing to the wider national effort towards comprehensive digitization.

“We are ready and eager to work with the government to establish a Connectivity Index Rating in the country. This will allow our consumers to choose which establishment or public place they would want to patronize because internet services are within standards,” said Globe Group president and chief executive Ernest Cu.

“With this in place, we will cement the perception that the Philippines has internet services at par with other countries, just as external party surveys have been showing. This initiative resonates profoundly with the President’s blueprint for a digitally resilient and vibrant Philippines,” he said.

Participation through remote communication

Participation through remote communication Macay’s 2023 ASM will be broadcasted live and stockholders who have successfully registered can participate via remote communication.

Globe and other industry players proposed the Connectivity Index Rating to the sector leaders of the Private Sector Advisory Council. Darwin G. Amojelar Beep powers QR payment in LRT 1

Instructions and procedures on how to attend the meeting through remote communication will be sent to stockholders indicated in the registration form.

Macay’s 2023 ASM will be broadcasted live and stockholders who have successfully registered can participate via remote communication.

Instructions and procedures on how to attend the meeting through remote communication will be sent to stockholders indicated in the registration form.

Stockholders who will not, are unable to, or do not expect to attend the vitrual meeting may, at their option, designate their authorized representatives by means of proxy on manually filled ballot. The Proxy instrument must be duly notarized and must be submitted with transmittal letter to the Office of the Corporate Secretary at 137 Yakal Street, San Antonio Village, Makati City, Philippines 1203 for inspection, validation and recording on or before June 18, 2023.

Stockholders who will not, are unable to, or do not expect to attend the vitrual meeting may, at their option, designate their authorized representatives by means of proxy on manually filled ballot. The Proxy instrument must be duly notarized and must be submitted with transmittal letter to the Office of the Corporate Secretary at 137 Yakal Street, San Antonio Village, Makati City, Philippines 1203 for inspection, validation and recording on or before June 18, 2023.

Originally Signed GABRIEL A. DEE CORPORATE SECRETARY

AF PAYMENTS Inc., the operator of the beep card, announced the successful launch of Maya’s and Light Rail Manila Corp.’s QR payment system in LRT Line 1. The new and convenient payment option—which is enabled by beep’s technology—was warmly received by train commuters, who can now effortlessly purchase QR codes through their smart phones.

“The overwhelming adoption of QR since the service’s launch demonstrates commuters’ willingness to embrace more diverse payment options that facilitate faster and more convenient commute. Alongside the tap-in and tap-out functionality of beep cards, QR offers an excellent alternative to Single Journey Ticket users, allowing them to skip the lines and enjoy faster travel times,” said

AF Payments president and chief executive JJ Moreno.

“The core mission of AF Payments, Inc. is to provide commuters with convenient, fast, and secure payment solutions, transforming daily commuting into a more efficient, productive, and pleasant experience for everyone,” he said. LRT 1 QR tickets, valid for 24 hours, may be conveniently purchased through the Maya and LRMC’s ikotMNL apps and eventually through the beep app.

FPH BOARD. Members of the board of First Philippine Holdings Corp. pose for a group picture after stockholders re-elected them for another one-year term during the company’s annual stockholders’ meeting and elections on May 29, 2023. The board is led by chairman and chief executive Federico Lopez (fifth from left) and president and chief operating officer Francis Giles Puno (fourth from left). With them are (from left) Mercedes Lopez-Vargas, Roberta L. Feliciano, Emmanuel Antonio Singson, Richard Tantoco, Benjamin Ernesto Lopez, Stephen CuUnjieng, Francisco Ed. Lim, David Chua and Jaime Ayala. Re-elected are Miguel Ernesto Lopez, Anita Quitain, Rizalina Mantaring and Cirilo Noel (not in photo). FPH, one of the country’s biggest and oldest conglomerates, has investments in power generation through First Gen Corp.; property development and management through Rockwell Land Corp. and First Philippine Industrial Park Inc.; manufacturing through First Philec Inc.; engineering

Nuggets ready for ‘hardest game’

DENVER—Nikola Jokic brushed off suggestions the Denver Nuggets were favorites for the NBA Finals on Wednesday, insisting the top seeds were preparing for the “hardest game” of their lives against the Miami Heat.

Denver host Miami in game one of the best-of-seven finals on Thursday, aiming to end nearly half a century of futility by winning their first ever championship.

Bookmakers have installed the Western Conference champions as heavy favorites to clinch the series against an eighth-seeded Miami side who only scraped into the postseason via the play-in tournament.

Nuggets star Jokic however said Wednesday that he is paying little attention to the betting predictions from Las Vegas.

“I think we are not the favorite,” Jokic told reporters. “I think in the finals there is no favorites.

“This is going to be the hardest game of our life, and we know that. We are pre-

pared for that,” the Serbian added.

“Definitely I think we are not favorites in this series. I think they’re not either. It’s just the finals.”

Miami are expected to deploy defensive stalwart Bam Adebayo to contain two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Jokic, who has averaged 29.9 points, 13.3 rebounds and 10.3 assists in his 15 postseason games this year.

Jokic however emphasised that Denver’s strength was in their team ethic, challenging the idea that an individual duel would decide the outcome of game one.

“It’s not Bam against me or whatever, whoever,” Jokic said. “It’s Denver against Miami. Just because I think we kind of have a similar play style, we are getting everybody involved. We like to play team basketball.

“It’s not going to be me against him or anybody against anybody. It’s going to be Miami against Denver.

“I think that’s why it’s going to be interesting.” AFP

Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets shoots during practice in preparation for Game One of the NBA Finals against the Miami Heat at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. AFP

Esteban awaits world fencing’s approval on residency deferral

By Peter Atencio

FENCER Maxine Esteban is in a celebratory mood.

The 21-year-old Esteban recently graduated summa cum laude after finishing her Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, with Major in Leadership and Communications degree at the University of Pennsylvania.

Soon, Esteban is expected to take care of business and get comfortable in her new environment after recently switching allegiance from the Philippines to the West African country of Côte d’Ivoire or Ivory Coast.

“Hotter by 1 degree,” wrote Esteban in her recent Instagram post. Esteban is awaiting the decision of the world fencing body FIE to waive her threeyear residency period as a naturalized athlete, so that she can already represent the West African country in her bid to make it to the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. “She wrote the Philippine Fencing Association and asked for her to be released from the list under the FIE and allowed to be accepted by the Ivory

Coast Fencing Association some two months ago,” said Philippine Federation Association president Richard Gomez in an interview with the Manila Standard.

Gomez said he has since written FIE CEO Natalie Rodriguez and requested for the FIE to waive the three-year waiting period.

Doing so, according to Gomez, will allow Esteban to “continue, without interruption all training and participation in all FIE competitions, for her personal improvement and goal achievement.”

“My immediate transfer will allow me to continue with my training and competition without interruption, as well as share my skills and talents with a smaller fencing community in Côte d’Ivoire,” wrote Esteba n in a letter sent to POC president and Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, who in turn, has given his blessing t o the fencer.

The former Ateneo de Manila standout, who was cut from the PH national team early this year due to injury, once reached a world ranking of no. 62, the highest position achieved by any Filipino fencer. She last played for the Philippines in the World Cup in Paris in January this year, finishing 120th among 212 fencers. This was six months after she suffered an ACL injury at the World Championships in Egypt.

Esteban is now preparing for the Coupe Du Monde and Coupe du Monde Par Equipes in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Malixi faces Clemente, Zhao in marquee matchup

RIANNE Malixi launched her drive in the inaugural Mizuho Americas Open against Gianna Clemente and Alice Zhao Thursday (June 1), expecting a tough challenge not just from the Top 2-ranked players in the American Junior Golf Association but also from playing conditions at the Liberty National Golf Club in New Jersey.

“It’s pretty windy, so I think placement and focusing more on ball-striking, distance control and trajectory wi ll be key for this week,” said Malixi, one of the 24 invited players from the AJGA to the 12th leg of this year’s LPGA Tour.

Malixi has dropped from No. 2 to No. 7 in the latest AJGA rankings headed by Clemente and Zhao but

the Filipino star is raring to showcase her mettle honed up by a strong third place finish in last week’s Women’s All Pro Tour event in Texas.

While these junior players will compete for their own individual title under the Stableford scoring system, they will have the rare chance to prove themselves against the likes of world No. 1 Jin Young Ko, No. 3 Lydia Ko and No. 4 Lilia Vu, among others, in the last two rounds of the $2.75 million event.

Malixi, a two-time AJGA leg winner, Clemente and Zhao anchor the eight-group AJGA contingent at 2:16 p.m. on No. 10.

Meanwhile, Jin Young Ko kicks off her drive for a third LPGA win this year against Danielle Kang

Yet another ‘new’ Azkals’ coach

the length of his contract and other pertinent information, I would defer to Dan Palami, the Azkals’ team manager, to reveal the details. Just hoping that it won’t just be for the friendlies and it will be for a longer spell, whoever is named the new Azkals’ coach.

Subic course ready for full IRONMAN, 70.3 races

A RACING experience like no other awaits a merry mix of bidders from at least 33 countries building up for the ultimate test of strength and staying power in the Century Tuna full IRONMAN and 70.3 races, which get under way June 11 in Subic Bay.

Kept in top condition all year-long, the Subic course has been modified to provide a better racing experience for the elite cast clashing for top honors in both the 3.8km swim, 180km bike and 42km run race (full IRONMAN) and the 1.9km swim, 90km bike and 21km run (70.3) battle.

“We have retained much of the race course from last year but we also made some improvements in managing the race to provide the triathletes an even better racing experience,” said race director Neville Manaois.

He has also advised all the participants to hydrate in anticipation of the stifling conditions in the country’s premier triathlon hub which offers a balance of challenge and tests.

“We expect a hot weather so don’t forget to hydrate and plan your race well,” said Manaois, adding the organizing The IRONMAN Group/Sunrise Events, Inc. has guaranteed enough resources to provide the triathletes with enough support to ensure the smooth conduct of the races.

Meanwhile, registration is ongoing. For listup, visit www.ironman.com/ ironmanphilippines or www.ironman. com/im703-subicbay.

and Thai Patty Tavatanaki in one of the marquee matches at 8:32 a.m. on the first hole of the par-71 layout, while Lyd ia Ko drew Vu and Aussie Minjee Lee in the 1:32 p.m. group on No. 10.

Former amateur hotshot Rose Zhang is also out to impress in her pro debut as she mixes it up with Alison Lee and Korean Chella Choi at 8:43 a.m., also on No. 1.

Yuka Saso, meanwhile, tangles with Ashleigh Buhai and In Kyung Kim at 12:59 p.m. at the backside with the 2021 US Women’s Open champion seeking to snap a string of missed cut stints in the last three LPGA events, including in Chevron Championship in Texas, one of the Tour’s major championships.

how fanned his desire to accomplish more.

Two weeks into the blue-ribbon race, backed by are title partner Century Tuna, global premier paretners Vinfast, Active, Gatorade, Hoka, Roka, Breitling Co., Fulgaz, Hyperice, Qatar Airways, Red Bull, Santini and Wahoo, the full IRONMAN PH has drawn over 500 bets, including 89 in the 45-49 age group division. Other age categories (male and female) are 18-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74 and 75-and-above.

A banner field is also expected in the Subic IRONMAN 70.3 race with the premier 40-44 age bracket luring over a hundred entries. Other age-category titles to be disputed in both the male and female divisions are 18-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74 and 75-and-above.

THE Philippines Azkals are set to take on Nepal and Chinese Taipei in a couple of friendlies on June 15 and June 19 during the international FIFA windows at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Several players were already invited to play and an announcement will be made soon as to who will be available for the tuneups. From what I heard, the call ups are being finalized and the squad list will be released in the next few days.

Which brings us to the bigger question of who will be the Azkals’ coach for the matches against Nepal and Chinese Taipei. A source has told The Designated Kit Man that someone has been tapped already and an official announcement is expected to be made by the Azkals’ management soon. Regarding his identity,

Another source said the new coach may not be actually “new” and has been working with the Azkals’ management for a few weeks now in preparation for the friendlies.

He has also requested to remain anonymous for the time being.

Whoever he is, here is hoping that his presence will be a positive development for the team and he will stay with the squad for a little bit longer than the previous coaches.

Speaking of new developments, The Designated Kit Man had an opportunity to talk with two icons of Filipino MMA recently regarding their future plans. With the help of good friend and Bedan brother, Nissi Icasiano, one of the country’s foremost authorities on combat sports, we had an update on former champions Eduard “Landslide” Folayang and Joshua “The Passion” Pacio.

their US trip, connecting with former and current greats of Mixed Martial Arts in the country. Folayang and Pacio said they were able to achieve their reasons for their “career development excursion” which included watching the first big event of ONE Championship in Denver, learning how to further improve their skills, especially their striking and ground games, and interacting with their ‘kababayans’ and international fans, who came from all over the world while they were gym-hopping in the US. They also had the chance to reflect on how they will further their careers after leaving their former stable.

For Folayang, he assured his fans that he still has so much left in the tank and his journey is not yet over. While he admits that Father Time is catching up with him, there is no sense of urgency for him now when it comes to his career.

“‘Yung term kasi na urgency sa atin ay hindi naman ibig sabihin ay nagmamadali ka na and then you just jump into fights. ‘Pag hindi ka ready sa mga sitwasyon because you are rushing, dahil baka last trip ka na, mahirap ‘yung ganu’n. Ang point is you approach it wisely. Pag-aralan mo sarili mo, pag-aralan mo kalaban mo, dapat tama ang gameplan mo, and then go,” Folayang said. He added that his trip in the United States has opened opportunities for him and some-

Just like Pacio, Folayang maintained that the drive is still there. And there is no reason to count him out yet.

“We are still here doing what we love and what we need to improve on,” he explained.

For Pacio, the visits to the Jackson Wink MMA Academy, Kings MMA Anaheim, Cris Cyborg’s Fitness Martial Arts Academy, 10th Planet Oceanside Jiu Jitsu and Training Center and Wild Card Gym were a lot to take in but much appreciated. He was also inspired by the kind words given to him by Cyborg and the rest of the people he met on the trip.

When asked what he will do to remember them all, The Passion – actually he could also pass as The Joker – had a very simple answer.

“Siyempre nag-take notes po ako kasi sa iba’t-ibang gym kasi na napuntahan namin bawal po mag-video. So I need to repeat them everyday. Drills, drills and more drills hanggang sa maging normal na sa katawan ko ang mga ginagawa ko na technique,” he explained.

At 27, Pacio has not yet reached his peak and there is a long way to go in his MMA career. Just like Folayang, he is hoping to get back in the octagon in the last quarter of the year. He is optimistic to get another title shot at ONE soon. He is also open to a rematch with Jared Brooks or a tiff with the no. 1 or no. 2-ranked opponents in his division

While continuing his preparations for

another fight, Folayang revealed that he is planning to open his Landslide Martial Arts Training Center in La Trinidad, Benguet. If plans pan out, he said his training center will be ready within this month and will be open to all MMA enthusiasts or to ordinary Filipinos who want to be fit and healthy.

“Para makapagturo rin ang mga kaibigan natin na may alam sa martial arts. They can share the skill sets they have sa mga mahilig sa martial arts,” Folayang added.

On a personal note, I would like to clarify some points to set several matters straight. First, I’m no longer the media officer of the Philippine Azkals. I was only asked to serve in the team as such during the 3rd round of the Asian Cup qualifiers in Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia last June 2022. I was NOT PAID for my services then, simply because I did the job for the love of the team. I’m also not employed by the Philippine Football Federation or the Azkals’ management after the Asian Cup qualifiers. For some people who seem to know everything, and to paraphrase a quote from my favorite football show, please read this, before you flip, ok? Stay safe. Stay happy peeps!

For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_cabatbat@ yahoo.com or follow his account at Twitter: @ erelcabatbat

Maxine Esteban

C4 FRIDAY, JUNE 2, 2023

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

SEASONED broadcast journalist

Jessica Soho renewed her contract with GMA Network on May 31 and remains dedicated to her mission of sharing the stories of Filipinos worldwide.

With a career spanning nearly four decades, she has achieved numerous prestigious awards, including two George Foster Peabody awards and multiple wins at the New York Festivals TV & Film Awards.

Her show, Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho , has received Gold, Bronze, Silver, and World Medals. Soho has also been recognized as the “Most Trusted TV Host for News and Current Affairs” for 13 consecutive years by the Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Awards. She is a recipient of the Gawad Plaridel Award for Journalism, being the first alumna of UP College of Mass Communication to receive this honor.

Throughout her career, Soho remains committed to sharing the stories of Filipinos around the world.

Yet through all these accolades, Soho, who is a self-confessed promdi” or “a small-town girl, who made good,” remains grounded and focused on her goal: to serve the public and do good.

GMA Network Chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe L. Gozon underscored the value of Soho to the Network.

THE afterparty first media interview for the winners of Binibining Pilipinas 2023 was filled with joy and celebration at the Owner’s Circle on Monday. Bb. Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI) honored their newly crowned queens: Bb. Pilipinas

International 2023

Angelica Lopez

Bb. Pilipinas Globe 2023 Anna Valencia

Lakrini, Bb. Pilipinas

first runner-up

ENTERTAINMENT

Jessica Soho stays committed to her storytelling mission and making positive impact

“Jessica Soho, a highly acclaimed broadcast journalist, is a valued asset of GMA Network. Her program Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho is a consistent viewer favorite and receives recognition both locally and internationally. She is respected as one of the esteemed journalists in the Philippines.

GMA Network is delighted that she remains a Kapuso,” says Atty. Gozon.

Soho’s heart is full of gratitude as she remains a loyal Kapuso.

“Thank you very much. Walang hanggang pasasalamat,” she says to the Network that has been her home for almost four decades. “GMA has been my home for the past 38 years and counting.

Kung walang GMA, walang Jessica Soho. Ganun lang iyun kasimple,” she says.

Present during Soho’s contract renewal

were GMA President and COO Gilberto

R. Duavit, Jr., Executive Vice President and CFO Felipe S. Yalong; and First Vice President of Public Affairs Nessa Valdellon Joining them were Public Affairs’ Senior Assistant Vice President Clyde

Mercado; Asst. Vice President Angelie Atienza; Asst. Vice President Lee Joseph Castel; and Asst. Vice President for Systems and Budget Riza Laurente Also present was Asst. Vice President for Corporate Communications Jojo Aquio Soho is one of the main driving forces behind GMA Network’s News and Public Affairs. From her ideas, some of the country’s most iconic public affairs shows were born. Among these were Brigada Siete , Emergency , and I-Witness Her passion to tell stories from all walks of life extends to creating new concepts for television – some of which became hit TV series. “I think God blessed me with an overactive mind, kaya dapat lang i-share even my craziest of thoughts,” she says. Soho was behind the idea of the hit adventure series Lolong It’s not a surprise that people around Soho find inspiration from her – especially her colleagues. “I promise to continue sharing my ideas and pitching storylines and program concepts as well as mentoring

our production staff. My colleagues will bear me out on this –madamot.”

, Katrina

Anne Johnson Bb. Pilipinas 2023

, and

second runner-up

Atasha Rei Parani

The newly crowned queens of Binibining Pilipinas 2023

Child custody rights? Here’s a general rule according to ‘CIA with BA’

THE issue of parents separating and engaging in custody battles over their children is a common occurrence in the Philippines.

Recently, the public service program CIA with BA (Cayetanos in Action with Boy Abunda) featured a case involving a father named Gerry, who was being denied his right to see his children currently in the custody of the mother, Luz.

Senator siblings Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano, along with TV host Boy Abunda, addressed the complaint during the episode aired on Sunday, May 28. During the show, Senator Alan reminded Gerry, Luz, and the viewers about the general rule governing such cases.

“When parents separate but share custody of their child, it is not allowed to deprive the child of the opportunity to see, know, and be with either the mother or father, whoever has custody of the child. The most important aspect in the law is the welfare and best interest of the child,” he said.

The public service program ‘CIA with BA (Cayetanos in Action with Boy Abunda)’ starring (from left)

King of Talk Boy Abunda, Senator Pia Cayetano, and Senator Alan Peter Cayetano

Soho.

and change lives. KMJS proves that there are still good people in the world. I’m grateful to our OFWs who support and donate to those in need. Hosting KMJS is fulfilling my life’s mission of storytelling and helping others,” ends Soho. hindi ako

From this generosity also comes Soho’s determination to pay it forward and share her talents and ideas with more people.

“So I’m looking forward to keeping on generating story concepts and sharing these with our producers and storytellers, in whatever formats or genres.”

From this generosity also comes and concepts and sharing these Kapuso , is still the Filipinos’

Her show, Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho still the Filipinos’ favorite Sunday viewing habit on TV.

Seasoned broadcast journalist and a pillar of GMA News Jessica Soho

“Renewing my talent contract with KMJS is a blessing. It means more stories to share, inspire, help, give hope,

KMJS It means inspire, help, give hope,

Cheers for the Binibining Pilipinas 2023 Queens

BPCI continues to search for women who are not only beautiful but also relevant in this changing world. Lopez, Lakrini, Johnson, and Parani are all driven and empowered women who champion meaningful social causes, giving more significance to their crowns.

Lopez, currently pursuing a psychology degree at Palawan State University, is passionate about helping and empowering underprivileged children. Raised in an economically disadvantaged family, she believes that children are the hope of the future.

Through an outreach project with KASANAG, a youth-led non-government organization, she aims to educate children about health, career paths, and environmental awareness, among other things.

“I advocate for less fortunate children, aiming to give them hope and empowerment. Through a youth-led organization, I educate them about health, careers, and the environment. With Bb. Pilipinas, I’ll continue making a lasting impact on their lives,” says Lopez. The statuesque, gorgeous, and elegant Lakrini, born to a Filipina mother and German father, worked as a model in Stuttgart, Germany before moving to the Philippines in 2022. She advocates for proper nutrition as a nutritional scientist. Inspired by her mother’s battle with breast cancer, Lakrini wants to make a difference by initiating more feeding programs, teaching children about proper diet, and promoting indigenous vegetables.

Parani, a 19-year-old ABS CBN artist, advocates for mental wellness awareness for abused children, particularly those who have experienced domestic abuse. As a volunteer for Bukid Kabataan in General Trias, she believes in providing support and enabling children to express themselves and communicate effectively.

Johnson, a 25-year-old medical professional, lost her mother to lung cancer and advocates for healthcare as a right rather than a privilege in the Philippines. Inspired by her mother’s commitment to community service, she aims to raise awareness about the importance of healthcare and its impact on the betterment of the country. These remarkable queens have compelling advocacies that amplify their roles within the Bb. Pilipinas organization, contributing to a brighter future for the Philippines.

PEOPLE …are talking about

Jeremy Jauncey

However, the senator clarified that there is an exception to this rule.

“If one of the parents poses a danger to the child or if there is a restraining order due to reasons allowed by law given by the barangay or the court,” he explained.

“So if it is said that the child is in danger or being abused, it’s a danger to the child, so it can be prohibited,” he added.

The show highlighted the clarity of roles for both the complainant and the accused. “Whoever has custody sets the rules, but it has to be reasonable — this is where complications arise. It’s as simple as having a disagreement, not wanting to see each other, but you (Gerry) don’t want to see the other parent but want to see your children, very clear... you have the right to see your children.”

By the end of the “Case 2 Face” segment, it was shown that the custody dispute had been resolved.

CIA with BA continues the legacy of Senator Rene Cayetano, the late father of Senator Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano.

The senior Cayetano was a renowned lawyer who gained fame through his radio and TV program Compañero y Compañera, which aired from 1997 to 2001.

CIA with BA airs every Sunday at 11:30 p.m. on GMA.

We still can’t get over the intimate wedding between Jeremy and Miss Universe 2015, Pia Wurtzbach. And for them, it was the best decision they ever made. The private ceremony allowed the newlyweds to be present as they exchanged their vows surrounded by the sun, sea, and sand in Seychelles. With Jeremy, people can see a brighter side of Pia, despite her already bubbly personality. As for Jeremy, he shares the same enthusiasm with having Pia around.

Max Collins

Not all relationships end happily, but that doesn’t mean the former couple has to suffer the consequences. Take, for instance, Max and Pancho Magno’s relationship. Although they split sometime during the pandemic, they decided to remain quiet and address the situation within themselves. As a result, their split was mutual, and have become closer than before. Despite their efforts to fix their relationship, the pair admitted they couldn’t hold on. Still, it takes a certain amount of courage for someone to wave a white flag.

…are not talking about

Coco Martin For some years, the public already knew about his relationship with Julia Montes, leaving them indifferent about Coco’s confirmation. But when he delved into details about his courtship, people were appalled to hear that a 20-something Coco then made the moves on a 13-year-old Julia. The images that pop into one’s head are haunting. Despite facing backlash, the pair remains to be deeply in love and behaves as consenting adults, which ideally should have been the case from the beginning.

Lolito Go

The Jason Hernandez and Moira Dela Torre issue has been rekindled due to the former’s “soft launch” of a new lover and the release of a new music video featuring some videos from their wedding. Amid all that, Go, a lyricist and composer, broke his silence and called Moira an oppressor while claiming Jason’s only sin was availing lewd services. Maybe the definition of cheating varies in Go’s vocabulary as he keeps attacking Moira with malicious claims about her career.