Manila Standard - 2023 June 3 - Saturday

Rainy season begins—PAGASA

quarter of 2024.

THE state weather bureau on Friday officially declared the start of the rainy season, marked by the rains brought about by Super Typhoon Betty and the southwest monsoon (habagat).

WEATHER

PAGASA added the El Niño phenomenon may begin in the "next couple of months," and may persist until the first

"El Niño increases the likelihood of below-normal rainfall conditions, which could bring negative impacts (such as dry spells and droughts) in some areas of the country. However, enhanced Southwest Monsoon season may also be expected, which may

Marcos launches eGov Super App

Mobile platform to boost ease of doing business, lessen corruption in gov't

By Vince Lopez

THE government on Friday launched the eGov Super App, a one-stop-shop platform for national and local government services that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said will provide the public with hassle-free transactions and curb corruption.

"This is what we are pushing for. This is what e-governance is about -- to bring it all together, to make it simple and available and accessible," President Marcos said as he congratulated the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) for launching the eGov Super App at the Palace.

"I am very, very happy that we are going in this direction. There is another part of this that is extremely important, that… sometimes we do not talk about, and that is the lessening of corruption," Marcos added.

Marcos said it was important to digitalize government services to make them Next page

Gov’t backs Paleng-QR cashless payments

By Vince Lopez

THE administration is 100 percent behind a program developed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), which aims to maximize the use of digital payments using devices such as mobile phone apps in markets and tricycle hubs.

Marcos, NEDA Board approve TPLEX extension

STRONGER TIES. Speaker Martin Romualdez and his counterpart, South Korea National Assembly Speaker Kim Jin-pyo, exchange tokens of appreciation during a dinner hosted for the House delegation to the ASEAN-Korea Leaders Forum in Jeju, Korea. Romualdez also gave Kim a signed copy of House resolution No. 82 which seeks to further strengthen bilateral relations through the Philippines-Korea Parliamentarians Friendship Association. Ver Noveno

Speaker urges closer ASEAN-Korea ties

By Maricel V. Cruz

SPEAKER Martin Romualdez has asked leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and South Korea to work closer together for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.

Romualdez made the call during the opening ceremony of the

By Vince Lopez

THE National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board on Friday approved

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed his support for the Paleng-QR Ph initiative on Thursday during a meeting at the Palace with the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Digital Infrastructure Cluster to discuss recommendations to further improve the country’s digital infrastructure.

"President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. fully supports the Paleng-QR Ph Plus Ini-

By Rey E. Requejo and Charles Dantes

JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Friday said detained suspects were allegedly offered P8 million each to recant their testimonies that implicated Rep. Arnolfo A. Teves Jr. in the March 4 killing of Gov. Roel Degamo and nine other people.

tiative and wants government agencies to educate Filipinos on the use of e-wallet and other digital payment apps to prop up economic activities, particularly with the inclusion of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs)," said Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil. PSAC member Ernest Cu, president and CEO of Globe Telecom, who met

offered

Investigation on the money being offered so that they would recant their original statements,” Remulla said during an interview with CNN Philippines.

Remulla said the money was offered by former Department of Justice undersecretary Reynante Orceo, the legal counsel of Marvin Miranda, who has been tagged as “co-conspirator” with Teves in the killings.

ASEAN-Korea Leaders’ Forum held at the Jeju International Convention Center (ICC) in Jeju Island, Korea on Thursday.

The Speaker led the delegation of the House of Representatives to the forum. Other prominent personalities who graced the forum include Korean

“That was the intelligence information we received inside the National Bureau of

“If I am not mistaken, the first report

he said.

CKD is a condition where the kidneys are damaged and are unable to filter blood the way they should.

‘7m Pinoys have chronic kidney disease’

PH Press Institute, Novartis, ICanServe team up to enhance breast cancer info

‘Suspects in Degamo case

P8m each to recant testimonies’

‘SCunlikely to stop Maharlika Fund’

By Maricel V. Cruz, Vince Lopez and Macon Ramos-Araneta

OPPOSITION leader and Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman on Friday said that a Supreme Court (SC) petition to invalidate the proposed Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) – which seeks to use P500 billion in state assets for investment – will only be an exercise in futility.

“In unbroken jurisprudence, the Supreme Court has held that the courts do not involve themselves with or delve into the policy or wisdom of a statute, and it is settled that courts are not concerned with the wisdom, justice, policy, or expediency

Marcos...

From A1

"useful, easy and convenient" for ordinary Filipinos.

He said maximizing the use of new technologies would also get rid of fixers who ask for money, in exchange for facilitating transactions with government agencies.

"There is another part of this that is extremely important, that we sometimes do not talk about and that is the lessening of corruption,” the President said. “It simplifies the process especially for the citizens and there is no discretion being exercised by anyone… We should not allow them to continue to suffer from these antiquated, corrupt, inefficient systems."

Marcos said he is looking forward to the success of eGov Super App, emphasizing that the launching of the online platform is a "very good step" in attaining his administration's full digital and economic transformation goals.

The eGov PH mobile application allows users to transact with government agencies, pay bills, and access essential information about government programs and services online.

'Proper' national IDs

Marcos vowed to make the eGov Super App "more extensive" and "more sophisticated" to increase the country's global competitiveness.

He said the government is also looking for those who could help in the faster release of actual Philippine IDs (PhilIDs), the printing of which he said was “a little unsatisfactory.”

Marcos also acknowledged that the Ph-

Gov’t...

From A1 with the President, described the use of quick response (QR) codes and other digital payment apps as something like a “home run” for the government, saying that they are excited to start serving the public markets using QR codes.

The meeting was attended by Union Digital President and CEO Henry Rhoel Aguda, Bank of the Philippines Islands

‘Suspects...

From A1 that we received was that he was offering P8 million each so that they become calm and trust his principal, who is a congressman,” Remulla said.

Orceo denied the allegation as "pure hearsay."

“As lawyers, which Sec. Remulla is supposedly aware of, such a statement is devoid of evidentiary weight or probative value,” Orceo said in a statement.

“We only represent Miranda, and all the other accused are represented by different counsels. The recantations of all the other accused should be attributed to their respective counsels, not to us,” he added.

There are 11 detained suspects at the NBI. Aside from Miranda, they are Rogelio C. Antipolo Jr., Winrich B. Isturis, Joven C. Javier, Romel A. Pattaguan, Eulogio L. Gonyon Jr., John Louie L. Gonyon, Jhudiel R. Rivero, Joric G. Labrador, Benjie Rodriguez, and Dahniel P. Lora. Danny Villanueva, lawyer of five de-

Marcos, NEDA...

From A1

17, 2023 up to the approval on June 2, 2023

– in accordance with the Investment Coordination Committee (ICC) guidelines, NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said.

The 59.4-kilometer, 4-lane extension highway will connect the Ilocos Region, Central Luzon, and Metro Manila. This is expected to stimulate economic activity, alleviate road congestion, provide better and safer road access, and promote the development of new growth centers in nearby regions.

The TPLEX Extension Project will be implemented through a public-private partnership (PPP) under the Department of Public Works and Highways. The estimated cost of the project is P23.4 billion.

The NEDA Board, chaired by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., also confirmed the “Investment Coordination Committee or ICC Guidelines for LGU PPP Projects,” which outlines the guidelines and

of a statute,” Lagman said. He said he does not see any constitutional infirmity in the MIF tomerit the SC’s exercise of judicial review. Lagman said the remedy for the "improvident" MIF law was its amendment

ilIDs would become a "central focal point" for the dissemination of information and services as it would serve as a "proper ID in a sense that it contains data that is critical or important or that is necessary for the conduct of business in government."

"So, that's what we are working on. I think we are making new progress. We are finding those groups who are able to print them out," Marcos said.

"This is what we are aiming for. But this is an extremely important step in heading down the road of digitalizing our bureaucracy, our government functions. And this will extend not only to the national government. This will extend to even the local government," he added.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Thursday said there were about 37.3 million printed PhilIDs turned over to Philippine Postal Corp.

The PSA is now coordinating with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to accelerate the printing of IDs.

'High-impact' innovations

Marcos also stressed the need to pursue "high-impact" innovations to enable the Philippines to compete on an "even basis" with the United States and Europe.

He reiterated that the country has to adopt the digital transformation.

"Government as well must be able to identify and utilize high-impact innovations to improve its own governance and transform itself into an agile bureaucracy that is responsive to the people's needs," he said.

"This is not an option that we might want to examine. This is something that we need to do. We have no option of not doing this. This is something that is re-

COO Ramon Jocson and PLDT Inc. President and CEO Alfredo Panlilio.

The e-commerce platforms and the BSP have teams going around the country conducting information and education campaigns on Paleng-QR Ph Plus, which was launched in 2022 in different cities and local government units (LGUs).

“We have to do it. It’s a grassroots level approach. There are also videos on YouTube and we also have Tiktok to get people to educate themselves. And if you use the app regularly, you will see it being offered to you

tained suspects, said the accusation was "highly impossible to happen."

"All of the accused are currently in the detention center of the NBI and they have very limited space there," Villanueva said.

Ten of the detained suspects have been reported to have recanted their original testimonies, except for Miranda.

“It is not known if the offer was accepted but that’s the report we received,” Remulla said.

The DOJ chief said, however, that only one recantation is on record and has been filed in court.

Remulla admitted there was nothing he could do to stop Orceo from seeing Miranda at the NBI detention facility.

“They are following the law. The right to counsel is there. That’s the absolute right provided by the Constitution. So, we have to obey the Constitution. They cannot be isolated and without means of communication. We cannot do that. We should not do that because that is against the International Humanitarian Law,” he said. See full story online at manilastandard.net)

procedures for processing PPP proposals of local government units or LGUs that require ICC action under the Philippine BOT law.

The guidelines outline the role of the Regional Development Councils and other local development councils, particularly in ensuring that LGU projects are in line with national development plans.

Recognizing the vital role of LGUs in driving economic growth, the guidelines provide a streamlined process for local governments to pursue PPP projects that require action by the ICC.

The NEDA Board also noted its earlier confirmation of the ICC approval of the Department of Agriculture’s Philippine Rural Development Project Scale-Up or PRDP Scale-Up.

The PRDP Scale-Up, estimated to cost P45.01 billion, aims to build on the successes of the original PRDP. Its goal is to further enhance agricultural productivity, increase income opportunities, and improve the living conditions of rural communities throughout the country.

or repeal by the legislature, which is difficult given the composition of Congress.

He insisted that the P500 billion seed funding for the MIF using state assets would be better spent as budgetary support to finance the national budget's basic socio-economic services and infrastructure development rather than invest the same for contingent and lengthy ventures. For his part, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III urged President Marcos to veto the measure, adding that the Supreme Court could be the next battleground for the Maharlika Investment Fund.

“I am calling on the President to

quired," Marcos added.

"We did a survey of how people used the internet in the Philippines and the result was quite enlightening. They say, 95 percent of their daily activities, the shopping, the paying, the bank, even the payments to the government, 95 percent are done online," he said. "What is the 5 percent? Government. We cannot do it online, we have to go to the office, we have to collect the birth certificate, the documentation, the clearance and then we go to the government and they say 'you're missing one document.' So you have to go back. That just won't work."

Integrated financial management

As part of efforts to make the bureaucracy more efficient, the President signed an executive order tasking all government offices and local government units (LGUs) to adopt and implement an integrated financial management information system (IFMIS) in their transactions with the general public.

Executive Order No. 29 also enjoins government-owned or controlled state corporations to adopt and implement an IFMIS in all of their transactions.

Mr. Marcos also ordered the creation of a Public Financial Management (PFM) Committee, composed of representatives from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of Finance (DOF), Commission on Audit (COA), and the Bureau of Treasury (BTr), to help in the transition to full digitalization of the PFM processes through the IFMIS.

The EO was issued based on the recommendation of the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) for Digital Infrastructure to help promote efficiency, transparency

on the app,” Cu said, noting the country’s very high rate of technology adoption.

The adoption of QR codes and use of digital payment apps will make savings and loan applications in banks a lot easier for the public, especially the farmers, fishers and small businesses, PSAC members said.

At the same time, the government could eliminate the “5-6” or usurious lending and similar money lending businesses thus driving down the cost of running small businesses, which are the main drivers of the economy.

Speaker...

From A1

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, Timor Leste President Jose Ramos Horta, and former United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki Moon.

The ASEAN-Korea Leaders Forum is a special program of the Jeju Forumfor Peace and Prosperity. It brings together parliamentarians and business leaders in the region to forge mutually beneficial, inclusive, and trustworthy cooperation in the spirit of solidarity.

“I look forward to substantive discussions on how we as a collective global community can ensure peace, stability, and prosperity in the region; as well as promote sustainable economic growth and enhance regional resilience, with a focus on energy and food security, among others,” Romualdez said in his message.

Noting that sustainable peace is a key component of economic growth, Romualdez said the Philippines continues its effort to reform and modernize the country’s security sector to uphold its sovereignty and territorial integrity, deal with natural calamities and disasters, to usher economic development.

“We still have ways to go and we will look to partners like the Republic of Korea and those present today in improving these initiatives, and in working together to make sure that the geopolitical challenges of today do not undermine the possible gains of our future,” Romualdez said.

He noted that the Philippines is an advocate for the importance ofopen communication and effective collabora-

Rainy...

From A1 result in above-normal rainfall conditions over the western part of the country," it added. As this developed, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said damage to agricul -

exercise his veto power and return the measure to Congress,” Pimentel said.

“These flaws that we see today are the consequences of haste and, if I may add to that, an ill-conceived legislation…By returning it to Congress, it will allow us to resolve conflicting provisions and add more safeguards to protect the funds and foster transparency and accountability,” Pimentel added.

As this developed, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno expressed confidence on Friday on the financial strength of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, saying its contribution to the MIF will not threaten financial stability in the country. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

and ease of doing business with the government.

The committee will conduct policy and process review of key PFM processes, including budget management and execution, cash management, and accounting and reporting to pinpoint bottlenecks and update corresponding policies; re-engineer PFM processes and maximize the use of financial systems to ensure seamless government transactions; and devise a strategic plan through the development of a PFM Reforms Roadmap to expedite the development of IFMIS, while ensuring harmonization of policies across oversight agencies.

The PFM Committee will also come up with a five-year plan for the development and implementation of the IFMIS that links national government agencies with DBM, DOF, COA, and Btr.

The EO said the PFM committee will also “shepherd and champion the passage of supporting legislation in Congress; coordinate budgetary and donor funding to support PFM reform efforts; provide comprehensive annual reports on all project milestones, findings, and recommendations to the Office of the President; and, issue necessary implementing policies, mechanisms, and procedures to carry out the objectives of the order.”

The committee is also directed to issue guidelines pertaining to the transitional arrangement to be followed by the concerned government agencies in the full adoption of the IFMIS.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology will provide technical and policy support in the development and implementation of the IFMIS, the EO said.

BSP Governor Felipe Medalla expressed support for the project.

"Mr. President, this one has a big impact on financial inclusion because the problem is there’s no way for banks to assess their credit scores, but if we have a digital database with their payment habits, that will be a substitute and a good proxy for credit scoring. This actually helps in the financial inclusion advocacy of the BSP and the government.”

Aside from rallying support for PalengQR Ph Plus Initiative, PSAC made new recommendations for the President’s approval.

tion between inter-parliamentary bodies in addressing a range of transnational and global threats.

Romualdez identified critical areas of potential collaboration among parliamentarians in the region such as promoting green investment; equitable, and sustainable finance; improving the operational efficiency of inter-parliamentary mechanisms; promoting innovation, transfer, application, and development of science and technology for regional growth and sustainable development, and building resilient supply chain.

“We hope this forum can serve as a bridge to connect the Philippines and the rest of the Southeast Asian region closer to our Asian and international partners,” Romualdez said.

He also congratulated his counterpart, Kim Jin-pyo, Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea (ROK), for hosting the 2023 forum.

Other members of the House delegation include key officials of various committees of the chamber, including Rep. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez (Chairperson-Accounts), Rep. Glona Labadlabad (Chairperson-Inter-parliamentary Relations and Diplomacy), Rep. Shernee Tan-Tambut (Chairperson-Peace, Reconciliation and Unity), Rep. Princess Rihan Sakaluran (Chairperson-East ASEAN Growth Area), Rep. Maria Carmen Zamora (Chairperson-Strategic Intelligence), Rep. Emigdio Tanjuatco III (Vice-chair-Foreign Affairs), Rep. John Tracy Cagas (Vice-chair-East ASEAN Growth Area), and Rep. Peter Miguel (Vice-chair-Health), as well as Rep. Ma. Alana Samantha Santos, Rep. Jonahtan Clement Abalos, and House Secretary General Reginald Velasco.

ture and infrastructure due to “Betty” was minimal.

“Based on our monitoring and reports we got, the effect of Betty is very minimal in terms of damage to infrastructure and agriculture,” said NDRRMC spokesman Raffy Alejandro in a television interview.

He said close to 77,000 people in six regions were affected by the storm.

Betty left the Philippine area of re-

Oil firms to slash prices by P0.75/l for gas next week

By Alena Mae S. Flores

CONSUMERs can expect an oil price rollback next week by as much as P0.75 per liter for gasoline and P0.40 per liter for diesel to reflect the movement of prices in the world oil market.

Industry sources said that based on the Mean of Platts Singapore trading and foreign exchange movement, gasoline will go down by P0.65 to P0.75 per liter and diesel by P0.30 to P0.40 per liter. Domestic pump prices are adjusted weekly, but oil prices depend on the brand, location, and market forces.

Reuters reported early this week that oil prices declined due to lower Chinese manufacturing activity in May which fueled demand concerns and a stronger US dollar.

On May 30, the oil companies implemented a per liter increase of P1.10 for gasoline while the price of kerosene dropped by P0.60 per liter. There was no movement in the price of diesel.

These price adjustments resulted in a year-to-date net decrease for kerosene at P6.75 per liter, and a net increase of P6.10 per liter for gasoline. Diesel remains at a net decrease of P5.05 per liter.

‘7m...

From A1

Data from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation showed that CKD became the fourth most common cause of death in the Philippines in 2019 after ischemic heart disease, stroke, and lower respiratory infection. Tuberculosis was fifth.

“Only as few as 10 percent are diagnosed. This means our data of 7 million could be underestimated,” Luz said.

The early stage of CKD has no signs and symptoms, but it can be detected through serum creatinine exam.

The later stage of CKD could show symptoms like fatigue, lack of appetite, edema, nausea, vomiting, small amount of urine, lack of sleep, difficulty breathing, blood or protein in urine, rashes, and sexual function problems.

Luz said diabetes and hypertension are the top two causes of CKD in the country. The other causes include nephrolithiasis, polycystic kidney disease, chronic pyelonephritis, and glomerulonephritis.

Individuals who have kidney disorders in the family, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, heart disease, are smoking, are overweight, or over 60 years old could be at risk of having CKD.

“CKD is not cured completely, but not all individuals with CKD end up needing dialysis. The worsening of CKD can be delayed,” he said.

PH...

From A1

and the Alliance and Partnerships for Patient Innovations & Solutions (APPIS).

“We are privileged to partner with the Philippine Press Institute andICanServe Foundation in organizing this workshop. The support of the media is particularly important in increasing awareness on breast cancer, the most common type of cancer in Filipino women. Through their learnings from this workshop, our local journalists can help improve health literacy among the general public and facilitate early diagnosis and prompt treatment of breast cancer. There is hope for women diagnosed with breast cancer. They need to know that enhanced quality of life and overall survival are possible,” said Joel Chong, President of Novartis Healthcare Philippines.

"Media must go beyond reporting just the statistics and give a human face to their stories. By keeping people and communities informed, this will also empower breast cancer patients and survivors," said PPI chairman Rolando Estabillo.

“Some journalists think that reporting on cancer can be boring anddepressing. Twenty-six years ago, I was one of them, but I have changed my mind since. Any delay in the delivery of health services to cancer patients can mean progression of disease or death. We can’t be timid as journalists,” said Ms. Kara MagsanocAlikpala, Founding President of ICanServe Foundation.

Entitled “Health Reporting on Breast Cancer in the Philippines,” the two half-day virtual workshop scheduled on June 21-22, 2023 will be attended by journalists who are PPI members. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

sponsibility on Thursday, but is still enhancing the southwest monsoon.

NDRRMC earlier said at least 10 to 14 tropical cyclones were expected to enter the country from May until October this year.

"We will continue to enhance our preparations by making sure we have enough stockpile of food and non-food items in our strategic warehouses throughout the country," Alejandro said. Rio N. Araja

IN BRIEF

AFP: Successful anti-rebel campaigns in May

GOVERNMENT troops continue to deal massive blows to local and communist threat groups, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said on Friday.

In May, 27 rebels died in skirmishes with the military, while 125 surrendered and 11 were apprehended in military operations across the country.

One of the notable accomplishments of the country’s military units is the successful focused military operations conducted by the 62nd Infantry Battalion on May 20 to 21 in the Negros region.

The operation resulted in the death of 10 communist members and the capture of 14 high-powered firearms, various ammunition, explosives, and other war material. Charles Dantes

4 international airlines start operations in Terminal 3

FOUR international airlines - Gulf Air, Thai Airways, Jeju Air, and Ethiopian Airlines - started operating at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport - Terminal 3, the Manila International Airport Authority announced on Friday.

The operation of the four airlines was relocated from Terminal 1 to Terminal 3 as part of MIAA’s Schedule and Terminal Assignment Rationalization (STAR) program to optimize the capacity of the four NAIA terminals.

“The transition of these carriers was seamless, just as it had been in previous phases of our STAR program. This is a result of our continuous coordination with airlines and ground handlers, our massive information drive to minimize instances of misrouted passengers and the proactive measures we have put in place to ensure that no passenger is left behind,” said Manila International Airport Authority Officer-in-Charge Bryan Co. Joel E. Zurbano

BI cautions against fake OECs

By Vito Barcelo

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) warned Filipinos seeking jobs abroad against getting overseas employment certificates (OECs) being offered online.

BI commissioner Norman Tansingco issued the warning after officers intercepted a new batch of departing Filipinos presenting counterfeit OECs.

The BI’s travel control and enforcement unit (TCEU) reported the interception of three overseas Filipino workers after attempting to depart for Warsaw, Poland

on board an Air China flight at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1. The victims, one female, and two males, all in their 30s, said that they were recruited online and transacted with their recruiter via messenger. They each paid around P70,000 for the recruitment and their ticket, and paid an

additional P7,000 allegedly for expeditious processing of their OECs.

They allegedly received their OECs via email.

Another incident was recorded at the Clark International Airport (CIA), where officers intercepted a male victim after presenting a counterfeit OEC.

The victim, who is 28 years old, attempted to depart to Dubai last May 28 on board an Emirates Airlines flight. He claimed to be working there as a personnel manager for a service provider and presented documents stating the same.

However, the BI’s centralized system

detected discrepancies in his OEC, and the matter was referred to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) personnel on duty.

The BI meanwhile arrested a Taiwanese wanted by authorities in Taipei for fraud.

The fugitive, identified as 26-yearold Che Szu-Han, was arrested at the Clark freeport in Mabalacat, Pampanga, according to Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco.

Operatives from the BI’s fugitive search unit (FSU) arrested Che on the strength of a mission order which he issued upon request of the Taiwanese authorities.

Former NPC director

Fetalino writes 30

VETERAN newsman and former director of the National Press Club Dennis Fetalino died on Thursday. He was 62.

Until his death, Fetalino was associate editor of People’s Journal and wrote a regular column.

Fetalino had been a journalist since his student days at the University of the East, where served as editor of the Dawn, which until the mid-1980s was the biggest student newspaper in the country.

He became a reporter for Malaya at the height of the protests against martial law that culminated in the 1986 People Power Revolution.

Post-EDSA, he joined a number of newly-founded newspapers, including the Herald Tribune, Philippine Star, and Business Star before finding his niche with the Journal Group of Publications where he rose to become associate editor of People’s Journal.

He was elected director of the National Press Club for nine terms and was among the founders of the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines (EJAP).

Fetalino is survived by his wife Juliet, children Mario Jordan and Regine, brother Mario, sister Jena, nephews and nieces, and other relatives.

WIRES AND CABLES. A cable technician repairs electrical and cable wires in P. Tuazon Avenue in Cubao Quezon City. Manny Marcelo

PH to host twin Forbes confabs in ‘24

By Vince Lopez

THE Philippines will host the Forbes Asia Forum and the Forbes Global CEO Conference in 2024 which, according to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), would attract more foreign investors.

The PCO said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had agreed to host the twin events following a meeting with senior officials of the Forbes Media LCC at Malacañang on Thursday.

“I hope that in this conference and we can show the Philippines as it is now, as opposed to perhaps some of the

Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., assisted by Philippine National Police chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr and Bureau of Jail

Management and Penology director general Ruel Rivera, lights the cauldron signaling the opening of BIDA (Buhay Ingatan Droga’y Ayawan) sports and cultural competitions in Camp Crame, Quezon City. Manny Palmero

ideas that people have had almost for a while,” President Marcos said during the meeting.

The President also said the government has been focusing on improving the country’s economy and enticing more investments in various areas such as digitalization, energy, connectivity, bureaucratic

reforms, as well as infrastructure like roads and school buildings.

“I have the Filipino workforce that, for me, is still going to be, it has been a blessing. You know we have the youngest workforce in the region… they’re very well-trained English speaking,” the Chief Executive noted.

”The President, as he said, has embarked on a “charm offensive” as the Philippines needs to compete with other countries in the region, including Indonesia, Vietnam, China, and Japan.

Those Forbes Media LCC top officials who met with the President include Forbes vice chairman Christopher

Forbes, chief executive officer William Adamopoulos, Forbes Media Asia Pte. Ltd. Senior vice president Tina Wee, regional director Michelle Ong, and MMPR Media Group, Inc. country representative Marie Moñozca.

The conference, expected to be held in Manila sometime in the fourth quarter of 2024, will convene global chief executive officers, business tycoons, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders to discuss key issues of international concern and build new partnerships. There will be a fireside chat between a senior Forbes editor and the host country’s leader.

DOJ intensifies manhunt for ex-BuCor chief

By Rey E. Requejo

JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Friday said efforts have been intensified for the arrest of former Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) director general Gerald Bantag who sent surrender feelers more than a month ago.

Bantag has not turned himself in despite warrants of arrest issued by two regional trial courts against him in connection with two separate murder cases.

The former BuCor chief was charged for the killing of radio broadcaster Percival “Percy Lapid” Mabasa on Oct. 3, 2022 and Cristito Villamor Palana, an inmate at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City on Oct. 18, 2023.

Palana was tagged by self-confessed gunman Joel Escorial as a middleman in the killing of Lapid.

On Friday, Remulla said “Bantag has been spotted in the North.”

“Actually, we have not stopped anybody from arresting him. We are just saying there are surrender feelers,” Remulla stressed.

According to him, the two murder cases against Bantag and his co-accused are set to go on trial before the two Regional Trial Courts; one in Las Pinas City in the Percy Lapid case another in Muntinlupa City in the Palana’s case.

“It was reported to me that the pre-trial was done yesterday, June 1,” Remulla said. Bantag sent surrender feelers to Remulla’s colleague in the Cabinet and a close friend in the law enforcement agency.

However, the communication line went cold and nothing was heard about Bantag since then, Remulla said.

DOJ set to file criminal raps vs. 8 foreigners in crypto scam

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) has recommended the indictment for human trafficking of eight foreigners who were arrested for cryptocurrency scam operations in Pampanga.

The DOJ said the eight aliens whose names were not disclosed will be charged before the Angeles City Regional Trial Court (RTC) for violations of Republic Act No. 9208, the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act as amended by RA 10364 and RA 11862.

In a statement, the DOJ said the eight respondents underwent preliminary investigation after their arrest

DILG set to roll out drug testing among workers

By Charles Dantes

DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary

Benjamin Abalos Jr. has said random drug testing will be implemented among DILG-attached agencies.

“This could be random drug testing, unannounced drug testing, all over, hindi lamang sa atin, kundi ito ay maski sa local government units,” Abalos said during the opening of the sports and cultural competitions organized under the anti-illegal drugs program at Camp Crame in Quezon City.

Abalos disclosed that he will issue a circular regarding the drug testing operations.

“Ici-circularized natin ito para ang mga tao kinakabahan at umiiwas sa droga,” the DILG chief said.

In an ambush interview, Abalos listed all the DILG attached agencies including the Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Local Government Academy, National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, National Police Commission, National Youth Commission, Philippine Commission on Women, Philippine National Police, and Philippine Public Safety College.

He said those who will test positive for illegal drug may be dismissed from the service after careful evaluation.

He also warned those who will test negative for illegal drug use to avoid being complacent as the random drug testing will be a continuing process.

Abalos challenged private companies to conduct random drug testing among their employees to ensure a drug-free workplace. With Joel Zurbano

last May 4 during an operation conducted by a composite team of law enforcement agencies, including the Philippine National Police.

The DOJ also said the operation at the Clark Sun Valley Hub Corp. located at the Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone in Mabalacat, Pampanga, resulted in the rescue of more than 1.000 employees, both foreigners and Filipinos, illegally recruited by the crime ring.

The DOJ said the Bureau of Immigration processed the foreign nationals for verification, identification, and

biometrics and, so far, 936 of them have been given permissions to leave the Philippines with waiver of all the penalties and fees for alleged violation of immigration laws.

The agency also said 291 of the foreigners have been repatriated as of May 31.

It was noted that the verification, identification, and repatriation processes were done through the collaborative efforts of the DOJ-led InterAgency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) member agencies, pertinent embassies and non-government or-

ganizations (NGOs).

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla directed that the aliens rescued last May 4 would be placed under the custody of the Philippine National Police (PNP) pending completion of their repatriation papers.

The PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group was also instructed to secure the compound at the Sun Valley subdivision where the mass rescue occurred. “This legal custody by the IACAT of the victims is pursuant to Section 17 and 17(A) of 9208, as amended by RA 10364,” it added. Rey E. Requejo

CHRISTMAS IN JUNE. The yuletide spirit fills the air in Porac, Pampanga as Senator Imee Marcos does like Santa Claus, escorted by Mayor Jing Capil and local social welfare officials, gives away cash, Nutribun bread, and toys under the government’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations. Similar scenarios unfolded in Mabalacat City, Pampanga, and in Bamban, Tarlac during the senator’s visit.

MMDA, Taguig City clean up Hagonoy Creek

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Taguig City government on Friday launched a joint cleanup operation at the Hagonoy Creek Retarding Pool as part of government’s preemptive initiative to prevent massive flooding in the metropolis.

MMDA chairman Romando Artes said at least 50 trucks carrying 12 tons each, equivalent to around 600 kilos of trash every year are being collected from the creek situated near the Hagonoy Pumping Station in Taguig.

“Solid waste management is everyone’s responsibility, not the government’s alone. All of us must work together and ensure that waste is properly managed and disposed of to prevent flooding,” Artes stressed.

Instead of disposing their trash properly, Artes said some people opt to do it the easy way by dumping their garbage on waterways.

“It is high time that people break the dumping and cleaning cycle by changing their mindset about managing their waste,” he said. The MMDA chief appealed to the

public to help reduce flooding by avoiding indiscriminate throwing of waste into the streets and waterways.

“A key to effective solid waste management is segregating trash at the source and having effective garbage collection done at the local level,” he said.

Artes said the agency’s massive cleanup drive requires heavy equipment and large manpower.

“While we are boosting our efforts in cleanup operations to mitigate flooding, the public must do their part by observing cleanliness and proper waste disposal.”

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Is it worth investing in Fil-foreign athletes?

SOME National Sports Associations like athletics and swimming are known for making use of foreign athletes with Filipino lineage to boost their lineups in international competitions, especially the Southeast Asian Games where the only requirement is a Filipino passport.

Fil-foreign athletes have been known to have the edge in terms of more scientific training and exposure to highlevel competitions, so they are expected to perform better than homegrown athletes. But against Southeast Asian neighbors whose skills are improving by leaps and bounds, there is no guarantee of supreme success.

Praxis on Pinoy spirituality

FOR the second part of our review of Karl Gaspar’s Diwang Balaan Banal/ Banal A Decolonial Discourse on Pinoy Spirituality, I will delve on the Chapter: the Praxis arising out of a Pinoy Spirituality discourse.

Here, Karl discusses the compelling social issues in the country and the church’s challenges and responses. The author advances the thesis that while it is true that religious ministers do not engage in partisan political activity that is the proper domain of the laity, neither can they renounce the political dimension of life itself.

He said there should be constant attention to the common good and concern for integral human development.

they possess Filipino passports.

The Philippine basketball team has been doing this for so many years until Cambodia upped the ante and included pure-bred Americans in its basketball line-up and took the SEAG silver medal, losing only to Gilas in the final.

Lest we be misunderstood, accommodation of Fil-foreign athletes in sports lineup, especially if they are deserving, skillful, and willing to carry the country’s banner, is by all means a great strategy.

But there have been questions raised yet again by homegrown athletes. Reports have it that Fil-foreign athletes enjoy more perks, and they receive more allowances than homegrown athletes.

Of course, they get special treatment —anybody should, for as long as he or she delivers.

He believes there is a need to ask what is hindering the fullness of the citizens. What are the problems for most Filipinos?

One problem identified was the pandemic, the human rights. Many church encyclicals address these problems. But how do we concretize these?

Pope Francis urges us to create a different culture, and rediscover our vocation as citizens of our own nations and of the world.

Rediscovering our vocation as citizens of our own nations and of the world is an important concept in today’s interconnected and globalized world.

It involves recognizing and embracing our roles and responsibilities as members of both local and global communities, and actively engaging in the betterment of society at various levels.

education and awareness regarding human rights. By fostering a culture that values and respects human rights, societies can create a strong foundation for justice and equality.

Poverty is closely linked to the violation of human rights.

Effective development strategies should focus on eradicating poverty and reducing inequalities to provide individuals with access to basic necessities such as food, clean water, healthcare, and education.

in dialogue. It involves paying full attention to the speaker, understanding their message, and demonstrating that you are engaged in the conversation. It is important to avoid interrupting, genuinely understand the speaker’s perspective, and respond appropriately.

Dialogue requires participants to approach the conversation with respect for each other’s ideas and opinions, even if they differ from their own.

Open-mindedness is essential for fostering an environment where diverse perspectives can be shared without judgment or prejudice.

And finally, surrender totally to God.

In the context of Filipino spirituality, surrendering to God can help individuals develop a deeper connection with their faith and cultivate a stronger relationship with the divine.

It encourages humility, trust, and reliance on God’s guidance and wisdom. Surrendering can also provide a sense of peace and contentment, as individuals release their worries and burdens to a higher power.

In the last SEA Games in Cambodia, only Eric Cray managed to win gold among the Fil -foreign athletes. Cray, 34, bagged his eighth SEA Games gold medal by topping the men’s 400m hurdles title.

In swimming, whose association is still embroiled in a leadership row, it is still necessary to have athletes who were exposed to more scientific training, especially in the US.

In basketball, the Gilas team is allowed to have one naturalized athlete in FIBA tournaments but can field anyone and any number of Fil-foreign players if

Now, sports officials are thinking of sending local athletes abroad for training instead of sports associations “hiring” Fil-foreign athletes.

Homegrown athletes then become coaches in the future and can impart their foreign learning to young Filipino prospects.

Let’s not forget that other countries can learn from our homegrown athletes, too, especially those from combat sports in which Filipinos are known for like boxing, kickboxing, arnis, to name a few.

So, putting a balance in hiring foreign athletes and sending athletes abroad, is an idea whose time is here.

At the national level, rediscovering our vocation as citizens means actively participating in the political process, staying informed about important issues, and exercising our rights and responsibilities as voters.

It involves taking an interest in the well-being of our nation, advocating for positive change, and holding our leaders accountable.

By actively engaging in the affairs of our nation, we can contribute to shaping policies and initiatives that promote justice, equality, and social progress. Ensure human rights through development, work toward better kind of politics.

Education and Awareness: Development efforts should prioritize

Establishing a robust legal framework that upholds human rights is crucial. This includes ensuring an independent judiciary, access to justice, and protection against discrimination, violence, and exploitation.

Empowering Marginalized Groups.

Development efforts should prioritize the empowerment of marginalized groups such as women, ethnic minorities, indigenous communities, and persons with disabilities.

This involves addressing systemic barriers, providing equal opportunities, and amplifying their voices in decisionmaking

Ensure the process of dialogue, which is a crucial aspect of effective communication and problem-solving.

It involves the exchange of ideas, thoughts, and perspectives between two or more individuals or groups.

To ensure the success of a dialogue, several key factors need to be considered:

Active listening is a fundamental skill

fishing or love, as well as religious traditions introduced during the Spanish colonization that began in the 16th century and ended 377 years later from 1521.

GENEVA, Switzerland—As

negotiations towards a new pandemic treaty pick up pace, observers warn of watered-down efforts to ensure equitable access to the medical products needed to battle future COVID-like threats.

Shaken by the pandemic, the World Health Organization’s 194 member states are negotiating an international accord aimed at ensuring countries are better equipped to deal with the next catastrophe, or even prevent it altogether.

One thing everyone seems to agree on is that new pandemic threats are looming, and there is urgency in aligning positions to meet the May 2024 deadline

The process is still in the early stages, with the aim of reaching an agreement by May 2024.

But critics warn that revisions being made to the preliminary negotiating text are weakening the language —notably in a key area aimed at preventing the rampant inequity seen in access to vaccines and other medical products during the COVID pandemic.

“I think it is a real step backwards,” Suerie Moon, co-director of the Global Health Center at the Geneva Graduate Institute, told AFP.

If poorer nations do not see solid language ensuring they will be better protected when the next pandemic hits, “there is a real risk that countries will walk away” from the talks, she warned.

‘Not good enough’

Observers said the new draft, which will be considered during the next round of negotiations led by the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body in mid-June, was “cleaner” -- but also weaker on some major points.

In particular, public interest groups said the removal of a call for public funds given to private sector R&D to be conditional on more transparent pricing of their products was an issue.

Instead, the updated draft urges countries to strive to promote knowledge-sharing and transparency “in accordance with national laws and as appropriate”.

Countries should also “incentivize manufacturers of pandemic-related products to transfer relevant technology and know-how” to lower-income countries, one option says.

“Voluntary measures are not good enough,” Luis Villarroel, head of the Innovarte NGO, which is focused on ensuring a balanced intellectual property system.

The text is “very weak,” he told reporters.

Urgency

There are also elements in the text that will likely not sit well with the pharmaceutical industry.

They include the option to link the sharing of pathogen samples with a requirement to share the benefits from the resulting products.

While agreeing it is important for all countries to swiftly share samples of viruses and bacteria that could cause dangerous outbreaks, poorer countries want access to the benefits, including the vaccines produced, technology transfers, royalties or capacity building programs.

The International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations has warned that linking access to pathogen samples with such benefit sharing could dangerously slow down the sharing of vital data.

“We remain concerned that decisions

VERILY, there are Filipino culture buffs, among them elderly musicians of small town bands in the north and in the outskirts of Manila, who are playing syncopated notes for more open or covered auditoriums and stages for the country’s slowly fading out regional folk songs.

In their book, they tap the Italian musical term morendo for the country’s regional folk songs – literally dying— which indicates a decrease in volume or tempo, but often affects both or the sound is slowly dying away.

Morendo creates the effect of a slow ritardando and a diminuendo with an extreme fade.

These culture buffs believe these regional folk songs can well keep up to the beat and melody as well as message of English songs that have made inroads in the industry.

They agree the traditional music of this country of 114 million people reflects the Philippines’ diverse culture, originating from more than 100 ethnolinguistic groups and shaped by a widely varying historical and sociocultural milieu.

These folk songs – traditional and generally rural music that originally was passed down through families and other small social groups – are written and sung in the different Philippine languages, including Ilokano, Pangasinense, Pampango, Bikolnon, Bisaya and Tagalog.

They reflect the lives of rural people and their connection with nature, including themes like harvest,

could be taken that we come to regret in a future pandemic,” IFPMA chief Thomas Cueni said in a statement to AFP.

“The innovation system and rapid access to pathogens were both crucial in enabling the pharmaceutical

The characteristics of Filipino folk songs include simple structure; their melody (song or tune) is rhythmical or easy on the ear; they are sung in a relaxed and easy voice; they are either in duple or triple meter; and they consist of simple harmony (pleasing combination or arrangement of different things).

Musicologists say typically, folk music, like folk literature, lives in oral tradition; it is learned through hearing rather than reading.

And it is functional in the sense that it is associated with other activities, and it is primarily rural in origin.

There are those who say singing these folk songs and helping the young ones appreciate the message help preserve and protect these traditional songs

The term folk music and its equivalents in other languages denote many different kinds of music; the meaning of the term varies according to the part of the world, social class, and period of history.

In determining whether a song or piece of music is folk music, most performers, participants, and

industry to develop new vaccines, treatments and diagnostics in response to COVID-19.”

One thing everyone seems to agree on is that new pandemic threats are looming, and there is urgency in aligning positions to meet the May 2024 deadline.

This is the only way by which Filipino spirituality can have an impact on our lives.

In the final chapter of the book, Karl reflects on the spirituality of the Filipino nation beyond the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines.

He sees the need for church personnel to be in solidarity with the indigenous peoples as they struggle for selfdetermination.

The book is a thought-provoking book that delves into the rich and vibrant indigenous spiritual traditions of the Philippines.

The book aims to shed light on challenges faced by church workers as they navigate the distinct practices of Filipino indigenous spirituality.

Karl Gaspar’s passion for the subject matter is evident throughout the book, as he skillfully guides the readers on a captivating journey of discovery.

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

(1)

enthusiasts would probably agree on certain criteria derived from patterns of transmission, social function, origins, and performance.

Experts add the central traditions of folk music are transmitted orally or aurally, that is, they are learned through hearing rather than the reading of words or music, ordinarily in informal, small social networks of relatives or friends rather than in institutions such as school or church.

Some sources say the Philippines, which has 17 administrative regions with major regional languages and musical brands, is literally a treasure trove for folk songs that give sheen to the country’s over-all culture as a Southeast Asian nation.

Sources say people in the regions, particularly the younger generations, should be exposed to this wealth of Filipino folk songs “since it is an essential way to pass down tradition that has been the signature of their ancestors.”

There are those who say singing these folk songs and helping the young ones appreciate the message help preserve and protect these traditional songs which cover several musical styles although the song is commonly used to refer to a narrative song that uses traditional melodies to speak on a particular topic.

Folk songs—the music of a nation, a sub-culture or a community of people —address social and political issues like work, war, and popular opinion and communicates a message and has a strong meaning about them.

In the Philippines, these folk songs are abundant—from as far north as Ilocos Norte and Cagayan to the warrior-type Tausugs in Jolo in the far south – but are hardly known and heard, if at all, by young Filipinos.

“I think we’ll get an accord in place if everyone realizes that our window before this next pandemic, this next health threat, is probably not far away,” US Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra told journalists in Geneva last week. AFP

Are PH’s regional folk songs in morendo?

Critics say pandemic treaty text is ‘step backwards’

Mexico police find 45 bags with human body parts in ravine

AT LEAST 45 bags with human remains were found in a ravine in the western Mexican state of Jalisco during a search for eight people reported missing last week, local authorities said.

“Forty-five bags with human remains have been extracted that belong to both male and female people,” the state prosecutor’s office said in a statement.

The gruesome discovery was made at the bottom of a 40-meter (120-foot) ravine in the municipality of Zapopan, a suburb of Guadalajara, a large industrial hub.

The authorities had launched a search for two women and six men, all aged around 30 years, who had been reported missing since around May 20.

NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING

of the said Application are hereunder quoted as follows:

1. That Applicant LEYECO V is a non-stock, non-profit electric cooperative duly organized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the Republic of the Philippines, with principal offices at Brgy. San Pablo, Ormoc City;

2. It holds an exclusive franchise issued by the National Electrification Commission to operate an electric light and power distribution service in in Ormoc City and the municipalities of Albuera, Kananga, Matag-ob, Villaba, Tabango, San Isidro, Calubian, Leyte, Palompon, Isabel, and Merida, all in the Province of Leyte;

3. The instant Application is being filed for the approval of LEYECO V’s proposed adjustment in its Distribution, Supply, and Metering (DSM) Rates based on the tariff glide path on the fourth to sixth regulatory years of the First Regulatory Period for electric cooperatives belonging to the First Entrant Group under the Tariff Glide Path Rules (TGP Rules);

4. Sometime in year 2013, LEYECO V filed with the Honorable Commission an application for approval of the proposed adjustment in its

The missing person reports for each one had been made separately on different days, but investigators found that they all worked at the same call center.

The call center was in the same area where the human remains were discovered.

Forensic experts have yet to determine the number of victims or their identities.

Initial inquiries suggested the call center

could have been involved in illegal activities, and local media reported that the authorities had found marijuana, a cloth, and a cleaning rag with apparent blood stains as well as documents on possible commercial activities.

But relatives of the missing accused the authorities of seeking to portray the victims as criminals.

In recent years, human remains have been found in bags or unmarked graves in different areas of Jalisco.

In 2021, in the municipality of Tonala, in Jalisco, about 70 bags with the remains of 11 people were found.

And in 2019, the bodies of 29 people were found in 119 bags in an unpopulated area of Zapopan. AFP

11th-hour debt deal saves US from default

US senators voted to suspend the federal debt limit Thursday (Friday, Manila time), capping weeks of fraught negotiations to eliminate the threat of a disastrous credit default just four days ahead of the deadline set by the Treasury.

Economists had warned the country could run out of money to pay its bills by Monday— leaving almost no room for delays in enacting the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which extends the government’s borrowing authority through 2024 while trimming federal spending.

Hammered out between Democratic President Joe Biden and the Republicans, the measure passed the Senate with a comfortable majority of 63 votes to 36 a day after it had sailed through the House of Representatives.

“No one gets everything they want in a negotiation, but make no mistake: this bipartisan agreement is a big win for our economy and the American people,” Biden said in a statement posted to social media.

He said he would sign the bill “as soon as possible” and address the nation Friday.

Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer added that the nation could “breathe a sigh of relief” after avoiding a “catastrophic” economic collapse.

“But, for all the ups and downs and twists and turns it took to get

here, it is so good for this country that both parties have come together at last to avoid default,” he said.

The bil—which now heads to Biden’s desk to be signed into law—ended a day of intense back-and-forth between party leaders and rank-and-file members who had threatened the bill’s quick passage with last-minute gripes about the details.

Democratic leaders had spent months underlining the havoc that a first default in history would have wrought, including the loss of millions of jobs and $15 trillion in household wealth, as well as increased costs for mortgages and other borrowing.

The late evening drama came after a series of failed ballots on amendments sought mainly by Republicans who were threatening at one point to hold up the process, dragging it deep into the weekend.

Senators elected to offer 11 tweaks to the 99-page text, many objecting to funding levels for their pet projects—from border control and Chinese trade to taxation and the environment—and each requiring a vote. AFP

Leyte as the designated venue for the conduct thereof, and ensure that the same is open to the public and the community quarantine guidelines are observed at all times. LEYECO V shall also guarantee that, during the conduct of the expository presentation, the participation of the public shall not be impaired.

the Honorable Commission, but LEYECO V adopted and utilized the proposed DSM rates in the said application as the bases for computing the proposed rate adjustment in the instant Application;

9. Under the TGP Rules, the concerned electric cooperative shall use the following formula in determining the TGP for the fourth to sixth years of the Regulatory Period, to wit: TGP = TGP + TGP TGP Where TGP = I - X + S n = the fourth year of the Regulatory Period and succeeding Regulatory Periods

The TGP calculated for each of the three years will be summed to determine the possible rate adjustment starting on

Any interested stakeholder may submit its comments and/or clarifications at least one (1) calendar day prior to the scheduled initial virtual hearing, via electronic mail (e-mail) at docket@erc.ph and copy furnish the Legal Service through legal@erc. ph. The Commission shall give priority to the stakeholders who have duly submitted their respective comments and/or clarifications, to discuss the same and propound questions during the course of the expository presentation.

Moreover, any person who has an interest in the subject matter of the instant case may become a party by filing with the Commission via e-mail at docket@erc. ph, and copy furnishing the Legal Service through legal@erc.ph, a verified Petition to Intervene at least five (5) calendar days prior to the date of the initial virtual hearing. The verified Petition to Intervene must follow the requirements under Rule 9 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure, indicate therein the docket number and title of the case and stating the following:

1) The petitioner’s name, mailing address, and e-mail address;

2) The nature of petitioner’s interest in the subject matter of the proceeding and the way and manner in which such interest is affected by the issues involved in the proceeding; and

3) A statement of the relief desired.

Likewise, all other persons who may want their views known to the Commission with respect to the subject matter of the case may file through e-mail at docket@ erc.ph, and copy furnish the Legal Service through legal@erc.ph, their Opposition or Comment at least five (5) calendar days prior to the initial virtual hearing. Rule 9 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure shall govern. No particular form of Opposition or Comment is required, but the document, letter, or writing should contain the following:

1) The name, mailing address, and e-mail address of such person;

2) A concise statement of the Opposition or Comment; and

3) The grounds relied upon.

All interested parties filing their Petition to Intervene, Opposition or Comment are required to submit the hard copies thereof

AFP

IN BRIEF HK artists mark Tiananmen quietly Vietnam detains climate activist

VIETNAMESE authorities have detained a prominent climate activist for alleged tax evasion, her husband said Friday, adding to a list of environmentalists facing the accusation.

Hoang Thi Minh Hong, the founder of now-defunct NGO CHANGE, which aimed to tackle some of the country’s most urgent environmental issues, was taken into custody in Ho Chi Minh City on Wednesday.

AVANT garde street performance, politically charged theatre, pro-democracy music and poetry— powerful works of art dealing with China’s bloody Tiananmen Square crackdown that were once commonplace in Hong Kong have all but disappeared in recent years.

For decades, tens of thousands of people gathered annually in Hong Kong’s Victoria Park for a candlelight vigil marking June 4, 1989, when Chinese troops moved into Beijing’s Tiananmen Square to quell peaceful protests calling for reforms.

Commission will send the access link/s to the aforementioned hearing platform within five (5) working days prior to the scheduled hearings.

“I can confirm Hong has been under temporary detention since May 31 with the accusation of tax evasion,” Hoang Vinh Nam told AFP.

Hong founded CHANGE in 2013, focusing on mobilizing Vietnamese, particularly young people, to take action against pressing environmental issues including climate change, the illegal wildlife trade, and pollution.

She announced last year that CHANGE would close after Vietnam’s authoritarian government handed down prison terms for tax evasion to four environmental human rights defenders, Nguy Thi Khanh, Mai Phan Loi, Bach Hung Duong, and Dang Dinh Bach. AFP

Hundreds, by some estimates more than 1,000, were killed in the crackdown.

Any mention of the day—let alone commemoration—has long been forbidden in mainland China, but the massive turnout every year in Victoria Park stood as an enduring symbol of the special freedoms Hong Kong enjoyed, even after its return to Chinese rule.

But since Beijing imposed a national security law on the city in 2020 to quash dissent, authorities have suppressed public events mourning the Tiananmen crackdown, and artistic output commemorating the pivotal day has shriveled. AFP

REPUBLIC DAY. Aermacchi MB-339 aircrafts of the Italian Air Force aerobatic unit ‘Frecce Tricolori’ (Tricolor Arrows) spread smoke with the colors of the Italian flag over Altare della Patria - King Vittorio Emanuele II monument in Rome to mark the 77th Republic Day on June 2, 2023.

THE MARAWI COMPENSATION BOARD RULES OF PROCEDURE

Pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act 11696, otherwise known as the Marawi Siege Victim s Compensation Act of 2022 , the following Rules of Procedure governing proceedings before the Marawi Compensation Board (MCB) are hereby adopted and promulgated: RULE I TITLE AND CONSTRUCTION

SECTION 1. TITLE OF THE RULES. - These Rules shall be known as the “Marawi Compensation Board Rules of Procedure.”

SECTION 2. CONSTRUCTION. - These Rules shall be liberally construed to carry out the objectives of the Constitution, the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act of 2022 and other relevant state policies to assist the victims in obtaining just and expeditious compensation on their right to remedy and reparation for victims of gross human rights violations.

SECTION 3. SCOPE. - These Rules shall govern the procedures in filing, processing, investigation, evaluation, and approval of claims before the Board for the monetary compensation brought about by the 2017 Marawi Siege.

SECTION 4. SUPPLETORY APPLICATION OF THE RULES OF COURT. - In the absence of any applicable provision in these Rules, and in order to effectuate the objectives of Republic Act 11 696, pertinent provisions of Rules of Court may, in the interest of expeditious, inexpensive, and speedy compensation of the Marawi Siege victims whenever practicable and convenient, be applied by analogy or in a suppletory character and effect.

SECTION 5. OBJECTIVES

a) To provide monetary compensation to lawful owners of totally destroyed or partially damaged residential, cultural, commercial structures, personal properties and other properties in Most Affected Areas (MAA) or Other Affected Areas (OAA) on the occasion of the 2017 Marawi Siege and the heirs of those who died and legally presumed dead; and

b) To provide simplified, speedy and expeditious procedure for disposition of monetary compensation.

RULE II DEFINITION OF TERMS

SECTION 1. DEFINITIONS. - The terms and phrases defined in Republic Act 11696 and the Implementing Rules and Regulations (lRR) of the Act shall be given the same meanings when used herein. In addition to those defined in the IRR, the following terms as used in these Rules are defined as follows:

a) Court of Competent Jurisdiction refers to court who has the legal ability to exert the power to hear and determine a suit.

b) Exclusive Jurisdiction refers to a Board that has the power to determine a claim to the exclusion of all others.

c) Legal Unit refers to a unit under the general administrative supervision of the Secretariat tasked to examine all claims in order to determine its compliance with the documentary requirements as defined in the Act, the IRR and these Rules.

d) Ocular Inspection refers to the act of visiting the structure subject of the claim as a mean to ascertain the replacement cost or repair cost of the structure.

e) Prescriptive Period refers to the period of filing claims which is one (1) year from the date of commencement to the date of termination.

f) Reglementary Period refers to the period within which the claims or opposition may be filed.

g) Verified Claims Application refers to a Claims Application that contains the signature of the claimant attesting that: (1) the factual allegations in the application are true and correct based on his/her personal knowledge or based on authentic documents, (2) that the application is not filed to cause unnecessary delay or needlessly increase the docket of the Board, and (3) that the factual allegations therein have evidentiary support.

h) Verified Statement of Opposition refers to the written opposition that contains the signature of the Oppositor attesting that: (I) the factual allegations in the Opposition are true and correct based on his/her personal knowledge or based on authentic documents, (2) that the Opposition is not filed to cause unnecessary delay or needlessly increase the docket of the Board, and (3) that the factual allegations therein have evidentiary support.

i) Technical Unit refers to a unit under the administrative supervision of the Secretariat tasked to conduct ocular inspection in order to determine the reasonable valuation of the structures based on replacement cost or repair cost as defined in the Act, the IRR and these Rules. RULE III. CLAIMS AND OPPOSITION

SECTION 1. VERIFIED CLAIMS APPLICATION FORM. - The right to reparation in the form of monetary compensation under RA 11696 shall be initiated by a claimant upon filing of:

a) Verified Claims Application Form in duplicate accompanied by a Certification Against Splitting Cause of Action and Multiplicity of Suits containing the list of all claims, shall be filed directly with the Board Secretariat pursuant to Section 30 of the IRR. The filing thereof shall interrupt the one (1) year prescriptive period; and

b) Duly certified copies of all documentary requirements under Section 31 of the IRR, as well as the affidavits of witnesses, and other evidence, if any. No evidence shall be allowed which was not attached to or submitted together with the Claims Application Form, unless good cause is shown for the admission of additional evidence.

No formal pleading, other than the Claims Application Form described in this Rule,

by claimants. Provided, that failure to file an application within the said period shall be deemed a waiver of the right to file the same. Provided further, that the Board shall publish in two (2) newspapers of general circulation the period of commencement and termination of applications by claimant.

SECTION 11. DISPOSITION OF CLAIMS. - The Claims Application Form submitted under this Rule shall state only facts of direct personal knowledge of the claimant based on authentic records, which are admissible in evidence in accordance with the Rules of Court. The inadmissible portion(s) of the Claims Application Form shall be expunged from the records. The non-submission of the required documents will cause the immediate dismissal of the claim without prejudice to the re-filing of the same with the required documents.

SECTION 12. NO FEES. - No fees shall be charged for the filing of claims application, opposition, or appeal. Costs for photocopying, scanning or other similar costs incurred in the filing of the application, opposition, or appeal shall be borne by the applicant, oppositor, or appellant.

SECTION 13. SUBSTANTIAL EVIDENCE. - Substantial evidence is required to prove the eligibility of any claim under the Act. Evidence submitted by the applicants shall be validated and verified through appropriate government records, database, and other relevant material sources prior to the resolution the claim.

SECTION 14. NATURE OF PROCEEDINGS. - Proceedings before the Board, either En Banc or in Division, shall be summary in nature and shall be guided by the Revised Rules on Summary Procedure. It shall adopt the rules on prohibited pleadings and motions as may be applicable. The only pleadings to be filed are the claims application together with the necessary attachments, opposition to the eligibility of the claim, and appeal.

However, should the Board, either En Banc or in Division, find it necessary to clarify certain material facts, it may issue an order requiring the presence of the claimant, witness/witnesses, and/or the oppositor.

SECTION 15. SUBPOENA TO THE PARTIES. - At the discretion of the Board, either sitting En Banc or in Division, and pursuant to the immediately preceding Section, it may issue a Subpoena Duces Tecum and/or Ad Testificandum as may be necessary and require the presence of the claimants, witness/witnesses, and/or the oppositor.

SECTION 16. APPEARANCE. - The parties shall personally appear on the designated date of hearing, if there be any. Appearance through a representative must be for a valid cause. If the Board, either sitting En Banc or in Division, determines that a party cannot properly present his/her claim and needs assistance, the Board may, in its discretion, allow another individual who is a nonlawyer to assist that party upon the Iatter’s consent.

SECTION 17. APPEARANCE OF LAWYER NOT ALLOWED. - No lawyer shall appear in behalf of or represent a party, including juridical entities, unless the lawyer is the claimant or oppositor himself. RULE IV PROCEEDINCS BEFORE THE SECRETARIAT

SECTION 1. FUNCTION OF THE SECRETARIAT. - The Secretariat shall maintain complete independence and exercise professional care and be guided by applicable laws in the performance of its function as well as the judicious assessment of claims in order to set forth proper recommendation to the Board in Division.

SECTION 2. PROCESSING OF CLAIMS. - The Secretariat, through its legal and technical unit, shall ensure the substantive compliance of the claims application, subject to review by the Board, in accordance with Rule V of the IRR. Each claims application shall undergo two aspects of evaluation- the technical aspect and the legal aspect. The technical aspect refers to the determination by the technical team of the reasonable valuation based on the ocular inspection and replacement cost or repair cost of the structures, and fair market value of the other properties and/or personal properties. The legal aspect pertains to the examination of the application form and its attachments to determine whether the applicant has submitted them in its proper form and in compliance with the submission of documentary requirements as provided for under Section 31 of the lRR.

SECTION 3. ELIGIBILITY OF CLAIMANTS. - The determination of claimant’s eligibility shall be based on Section 29 of the IRR.

SECTION 4. OCULAR INSPECTION. - The technical unit may conduct an ocular inspection of each structures declared in the Claims Application Form in order to validate the same. The estimated value shall be contained in the technical report based on objective technical analysis performed and shall not exceed the valuation declared under Section 41 (b) and (c) of the lRR.

SECTION 5. DETERMINATION OF REPLACEMENT COST OR REPAIR COST OF STRUCTURES. - The valuation of the replacement cost or repair cost of the structures shall be based on the total area per storey in accordance with Section 41 (b) and (c) of the lRR.

SECTION 6. VALUATION OF OTHER PROPERTIES. - Other properties shall be valued based on their respective fair market values at the time of loss as defined in the lRR.

In the case of totally damaged structure and in the absence of Fair Market Value of the house contents, the Board may on the recommendation of the Board Secretary use the Optional Standard Valuation provided for in Annex “A” of the lRR.

SECTION 7. RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE COMPLETENESS AND SUBSTANTIAL EVIDENCE. - The Secretariat’s recommendation to the Board shall be based on complete Claims Application and sufficient evidence.

SECTION 8. RESPONSIBILITY TO SAFEGUARD EVIDENCE. - The Secretariat shall likewise be responsible for safeguarding the evidence needed to support reasonable findings which may include: (I) physical evidence such as those obtained through ocular inspection; (2) documentary evidence consisting of the list of documents enumerated under Section 31 of the IRR; (3) testimonial evidence such as affidavits from witnesses;

(4) analytical evidence such as replacement or repair cost report of engineers, data derived from sources mentioned under Section 48 of the IRR; and (5) electronic evidence such as email, multimedia sources and other digital information.

The Secretariat, through its technical unit, shall download all filed claims applications together with its attachments in a centralized data system. The technical unit shall formulate a secured data storage management accessible by the Board and its authorized personnel.

SECTION 9. ENGAGEMENT OF GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS (GFI). -

Upon recommendation to the Board, the Secretariat may engage the services of a GFI. Provided that, the Board shall enter into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the GFl in accordance with, but not limited to, the following conditions:

a) The GFI is capable and has adequate experience to undertake the property appraisal services required by the Board;

b) The GFI must undertake the appraisal by administration using it’s own in-house manpower and resources; and

c) The Board shall pay the GFI an appropriate fee for its appraisal services in accordance with the terms of the MOA.

SECTION 10. EVALUATION OF DOCUMENTS. - Upon completion of submissions by the applicant or the oppositor, the Secretariat shall prepare within thirty (30) calendar days the Secretariat Evaluation Report of the claim based on the investigation conducted and evidence gathered.

SECTION 11. SECRETARIAT EVALUATION REPORT. - The Secretariat Evaluation Report (SER) shall contain the following:

a) Factual narration of the claim;

b) Description of the covered property(ies), identity(ies) of the deceased or legally presumed dead;

c) The valuation and extent of damage, destruction, or loss of the property or the fact of death of the deceased or legally presumed dead;

d) The factual basis relied upon in its evaluation;

e) Other material facts and law on which the evaluation is based; and

The Chairperson shall be presiding. In her absence, the most senior member shall preside over the sessions of the Board En Banc. Seniority shall be determined by the number of years in the profession. The attendance of five (5) members of the Board shall constitute a quorum for its sessions En Banc. The affirmative vote of the majority of the members of the Board present shall be necessary for the rendition of a decision or resolution on any claim or matter submitted for its consideration.

Where the necessary majority vote cannot be had, the claim shall be denied. Within fifteen (15) calendar days from receipt of decision, an appeal maybe filed by the aggrieved party.

SECTION 4. ADJUDICATION OF THE BOARD IN DIVISION. - The Board shall be composed of three (3) Divisions. Each Division shall exercise its adjudicative powers, functions, and duties and shall perform simultaneously and independently of each other in the resolution of claims.

Each division shall be composed of one (1) Presiding Member, who shall be a member of the Philippine Bar, and two (2) Members of the Board. The Chairperson shall be the Presiding Officer of the First Division.

The other Presiding Officers and Members of each Division shall be appointed by the Chairperson of the Board subject to the confirmation of the Board En Banc

The attendance of at least two (2) Members of the Board shall be necessary to constitute a quorum for its sessions in Divisions. The presence at the deliberation and the affirmative vote of at least two (2) members shall be required for the pronouncement of a resolution of the Board in Divisions. In the absence of the Presiding Officer, the most senior member shall preside over the sessions of the Board Divisions. Seniority shall be determined by the number of years in the profession.

SECTION 5. RAFFLING OF CASES. - All claims filed shall be assigned or distributed to any of the three (3) Divisions by electronic raffle. No claim may be assigned to the Board in Division without being raffled. The raffle of cases should be regularly conducted at the hour and on the day or days to be fixed by the Board En Banc

Only the maximum number of claims, according to their dates of filing, as can be equally distributed to all the Division shall be included in the raffle. Claims more than the numbers sufficient for equal distribution shall be included in the next scheduled raffle.

SECTION 6. MANNER OF RAFFLING. - The raffling must be conducted at the principal office of the MCB with the personal attendance of the members of the Board constituting quorum, or in case of the latter’s inability, of their duly authorized representatives. The raffl e proceedings shall be stenographically recorded, and minutes thereof shall be prepared and signed by the Board members present and the Board Secretariat. Immediately after the raffle on any day the Secretariat shall indicate the particular Division to which the claim is assigned, the same to be written in words and in figures on the cover of the Rollo and on the first page of the Verified Claims Application Form and initialled by the Chairperson of the Board and the other members who attended the said raffle.

For purposes of facilitating implementation of the foregoing rules, a Raffle Committee composed of the Board Secretary and Division Clerks of Court is hereby constituted.

SECTION 7. RE-ASSIGNMENT OF CLAIMS OF DISQUALIFIED BOARD MEMBER In any case where the Board Member concerned in Division is disqualified or voluntarily inhibits himself, the records shall be returned to the Secretariat and the case shall be included in the raffle for reassignment. Another case shall be assigned by raffle to the disqualified or inhibiting Board Member to replace the case so removed from the Division where he is a member of.

Provided, that any Member of the Board may be disqualified for the following grounds:

a) Mandatory Disqualification - Any member of the Board who is related within the fourth (4th) civil degree of consanguinity or affinity to any of the claimant or party to a cause pending before his/her Division shall inhibit himself/herself from participating in the resolution of the case.

b) Voluntary Disqualification - Any member may voluntarily inhibit himself/herself from the consideration and resolution of any case or matter before the Division and shall so state in writing the legal or justifiable grounds therefor. In the event that a member inhibits himself/herself, he/she shall be replaced by other member of the Board by the Chairperson.

SECTION 8. DISSENTING OPINION. - Should any member of a Division indicate his her intention to write a dissenting opinion, he/she may file the same within the period prescribed for deciding or resolving a claim or petition.

SECTION 9. ABSTENTION. - In the event of an abstention, and the concurrence of two

(2) Board Members to arrive at a resolution cannot be obtained, Section 7 of Rule VI of these Rules shall apply.

SECTION 10. ADJUDICATION OF THE BOARD EN BANC. - All resolutions rendered by the Divisions shall be elevated to the Board En Banc for final disposition. The award of monetary compensation shall be posted for thirty (30) calendar days by the Board Secretary in three (3) conspicuous public places. For purposes of data privacy and safety of the eligible claimant the amount of the award shall not be published. Any concerned party may file a verified written opposition in accordance with Section 5 and 6 of Rule III of these Rules.

SECTION 11. SUBMISSION OF THE CLAIM FOR DECISION. - Upon the recommendation of a favorable resolution over the claim by the Division to the Board En Banc, the claim is deemed submitted for decision within fifteen (15) calendar days. A claim is deemed submitted for decision after the filing of the last document or conduct of the last proceeding, whichever is applicable. In the case of the Division, a claim is deemed submitted for the resolution within fifteen (15) calendar days after the filing of the last document or conduct of the last proceeding, whichever is applicable.

SECTION 12. FORM OF DECISION, RESOLUTION AND ORDER. - The decision, resolution and order of the Board shall state clearly and distinctly the findings of the facts and issues, and the monetary award granted, if any. If the decision resolution or order involves monetary awards, the same shall contain the specific amount awarded as of the date the decision is rendered.

SECTION 13. DEATH OF CLAIMANTS. - In case any of the claimants dies during the pendency of the proceedings, he/she may be substituted by his/her heirs. In the event a favorable decision is rendered, the award shall be delivered to the heirs.

SECTION 14. SERVICE OF NOTICES, ORDERS, RESOLUTIONS, OR DECISIONS

- All notices, orders, resolutions, or decisions shall be served to all parties as far as practicable by personal service, registered mail, or accredited courier.

SECTION 15. EFFECTIVITY OF THE AWARD. - Within thirty (30) calendar days after the Board En Banc has approved with finality each eligible claim pending before it and after due publication of such legitimate claim, the award of monetary compensation shall take effect.

The Board Secretariat shall publish the list of approved claims within ten (10) calendar days after the Board has rendered its decision on approved claims.

SECTION 16. APPEAL. - Any aggrieved claimant or oppositor may file an appeal with the Board En Banc within fifteen (15) calendar days from receipt of the decision on the following grounds:

a) That the Resolution is not supported by law or is contrary to the evidence presented; or

b) That the claimant or opposing party has been deprived, through no fault attributable to him/her, of the opportunity to present his/her evidence in support of his/her claim or opposition during the proceedings. Otherwise, if there is no appeal filed, the Board En Banc’s Decision shall become final and executory. Any pending appeal filed by an aggrieved claimant or oppositor before the Board En Banc must be resolved not later than sixty (60) calendar days before it becomes functus officio

evidence in the form of affidavits;

ii. The purpose shall be stated corresponding to the evidence listed; and

iii. All evidence shall be attached to the application except object evidence which may be stated in the list subject to ocular inspection.

SECTION 3. MODE OF FILING. -

a) Personal filing i. Claimants may personally file their Verified Application Form during the scheduled intake at the designated place for filing as announced by the Board; or

ii. Claimants may also personally file their Verified Application Form by securing an appointment in the designated satellite or field office.

b) Electronic filing. - Upon satisfaction of the Board Secretariat that the claimant cannot file his/her application personally due to incapacity or for other compelling reasons, his/her application may be filed electronically through the designated online platform, subject to the submission of the original documents to the Board Secretariat.

SECTION 4. JOINDER OF CLAIM . - Claimant with multiple claims shall include all his/ her claims in one Claims Application Form. Failure to include a claim in the Application shall be considered a waiver thereof.

SECTION 5. VERIFIED STATEMENT OF OPPOSITION. - An Oppositor to the claim shall file his/her Verified Opposition anytime from the time of filing of the claim and before the finality of the award for monetary compensation, together with all its attachments and affidavits in accordance with the immediately succeeding section.

SECTION 6. OPPOSITION. - Any concerned party may file a written opposition from the time of filing and before the finality of the award for monetary compensation on the following grounds:

a) The claim is fraudulent, fictitious or spurious;

b) The claimant is not eligible under Section 29 of the IRR;

c) The claim is not one of those enumerated under Section 29 of the lRR; or

d) Any other justifiable ground as the Board may deem proper.

The Board En Banc shall resolve the opposition within fifteen (15) calendar days from the time the opposition is deemed submitted for resolution.

SECTION 7. RECEIPT OF APPLICATION OR OPPOSITION. - When the application or opposition is sufficient in form, the Secretariat shall docket and provide its digital copy. If it is not sufficient in form, the Secretariat shall receive the same to tentatively docket the claim and require the applicant or oppositor to comply with the required form within fifteen (15) calendar days. The tentative docket shall also interrupt the one (1) year prescriptive period.

SECTION 8. FAILURE TO FILE OPPOSITION. - Should the Oppositor fail to file his/ her Opposition within the reglementary period provided for in the immediately preceding Section, the Board En Banc shall render its decision as may be warranted by the facts alleged in the Claims Application Form, which shall permanently bar any Opposition thereto for being filed out of time. SECTION

f) Recommendation of the Secretariat which shall contain the following: i. If the application or opposition is approved in full or in part, the name of the person entitled to the claim; and ii. If the application or opposition is denied, the grounds upon which the denial is based.

SECTION 12. DISMISSAL OF THE CLAIM. - Any application or opposition shall be dismissed on the following grounds:

a) The claim is fraudulent;

b) The claimant is not eligible pursuant to section 29 of the IRR; or

c) The property or the deceased is not compensable under RA 11696. In case of in sufficiency of evidence, the Secretariat shall notify the claimant to submit additional evidence within thirty (30) calendar days from the receipt of the notice. Failure of the claimant to comply shall cause the dismissal of his/her claim. Provided that, for claimant with multiple claims, the dismissal of one claim shall not be a ground for dismissal of other claims. RULE V DISPUTE RESOLUTION UNIT

SECTION 1. REFERRAL TO THE DISPUTE RESOLUTION UNIT (DRU). - If there are two or more conflicting claimants over the same claim, the dispute shall be referred to the DRU.

SECTION 2. DUTY OF THE DlSPUTE RESOLUTION UNIT (DRU). - The DRU has the duty to resolve disputes regarding pending claims. The Unit must first exert efforts to bring the parties to an amicable settlement of their dispute. If efforts of settlement fail, the proceeding shall immediately begin in an informal and expeditious manner.

SECTION 3. RESOLUTION OF DISPUTE. - Any disputes on claims shall be resolved by a majority vote of the members of DRU within fifteen (15) calendar days from the time it is deemed submitted for resolution. A dispute is deemed submitted for resolution after the filing of the last document or conduct of the last proceeding, whichever is applicable.

Provided, that the Resolution of the Unit involving disputes within their jurisdiction shall have the force and effect of recommendation of the Secretariat.

SECTION 4. TARITIB AGO IGMA AND ASSOCIATIONS. - (a) The Dispute Resolution Unit may use a mode of conflict resolution which is based on the Maranao indigenous law called “ taritib ago igma” to convince the claimants to arrive at a settlement. To this end, the Board may invite a “sukodan” (go between) who is usually an elder and/or influential person in the community obliged to settle dispute between relatives or parties to the case.

(b) The Unit may also solicit the help of the Sultanate League of Marawi City, the Ulama Representatives and the Association of Barangay Captains (ASC) of Marawi City in the resolution of conflicts before it.

SECTION 5. FAlLURE TO SETTLE THROUGH DISPUTE RESOLUTIO UNIT (DRU)

- The effect of failure to settle disputes under the DRU shall lead to the suspension of the processing of the claim without prejudice to the filing of their case before the court of competent jurisdiction for the resolution of their dispute. RULE VI. PROCEEDINGS BEFORE THE BOARD

SECTION 1. JURISDICTION OF THE BOARD. - The Board shall exercise exclusive jurisdiction to evaluate, process,

SECTION 17. NO WRIT OF EXECUTION REQUIRED. - The execution of monetary compensation shall be automatically awarded without need of filing a Motion for Execution, provided that no opposition of the claims has been filed and after the decision has become final and executory.

SECTION 18. SPECIAL POWER OF ATIORNEY NOT ALLOWED, EXCEPTION No special power of attorney shall be recognized in the actual disbursement of the award, and only the owner or the aforesaid successor(s)-in-interest shall be entitled to personally receive said compensation from the Marawi Compensation Board, unless the owner involved is shown to be incapacitated or in other meritorious cases to the satisfaction of the Board.

RULE VII.

FINAL PROVISIONS

SECTION 1. AMENDMENT CLAUSE. The Board may whenever it finds necessary formulate and prescribe amendments to these Rules, consistent with the letter and spirit of the Act.

SECTION 2. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE. If for any reason, any section or rule of these Rules of Procedures is declared unconstitutional or invalid, such other sections or rules not affected thereby shall remain in full force and effect.

SECTION 3. EFFECTIVITY. - These Rules shall take effect fifteen (15) calendar days after publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation. Approved and Signed on May 26, 2023.

BUSINESS

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Philippine Stock Exchange said Friday it suspended the trading of SP New Energy Corp. and Vulcan Industrial & Mining Corp. after their public float dropped below the 20-percent required minimum public ownership.

SPNEC said in a disclosure to the stock exchange the Securities and Exchange Commission approved the increase in its authorized capital stock to P5 billion from P1 billion as part of the planned asset-for-share swap with

PSE INDEX CLOSING

parent Solar Philippines Power Project Holdings Inc.

The capital hike will enable SPNEC to acquire other solar projects owned by SPPHI and fund the expansion of its portfolio. In exchange, SPNEC will issue new

shares to SPPHI, which will cause its public float to fall below 20 percent.

“In view of the above-mentioned issuance, the company’s public ownership level fell below the 20-percent prescribed minimum percentage,” the PSE said. Under the PSE rules, listed companies which become non-compliant with the prescribed minimum public ownership “shall be suspended from trading for a period of not more than six months and shall be automatically delisted if it remains non-compliant with the MPO [minimum public ownership] after the lapse of the suspension period,” the

PSE said. SPNEC will have until December to comply with the public float requirement. Its share price closed at P1.46 on Thursday.

SPNEC, formerly Solar Philippines Nueva Ecija Corp., was incorporated and registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Nov. 23, 2016 as a renewable energy power generation company.

It is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Solar Philippines Power Project Holdings Inc., which is part of the SP Group, an integrated developer, owner and operator of solar power projects.

INAUGURAL CALL. Victoria International Container Terminal, International Container Terminal Services Inc.’s Australian operation and the first fullyautomated container terminal in Australia, receives the inaugural call of COSCO Shipping Lines’ recently launched ANE service. The service offers a direct connection between Australia’s southeastern coast and New Zealand, providing coverage up to Bell Bay in Tasmania. Shown are VICT chief executive Bruno Porchietto (left) and Capt. Kang from COSCO Shipping Lines Oceania during the maiden voyage of the ANE service at VICT.

Ang family buying P10.86-b shares in San Miguel’s

NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING

To all stockholders: 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:

(1) Call to Order (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

(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

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

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

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

(9) Other Matters

(10) Adjournment

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.

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

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. 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.

Participation through remote communication

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.

Originally Signed GABRIEL A. DEE

Meanwhile, the PSE also suspended the trading of Vulcan Industrial after the SEC approved the increase in its authorized capital stock to P12 billion from P4 billion.

The capital hike enabled Vulcan to issue new shares to mining firm East Coast Mineral Resources Co. Inc. as part of the planned backdoor listing. This, however, resulted in the drop in Vulcan’s public float to 14.54 percent from 40.37 percent. Under the PSE’s backdoor listing rule, Vulcan is required have at least 20-percent public float from actual issuance or transfer of shares.

PSE suspends trading of SPNEC and Vulcan IN BRIEF

Krungsi, Mitsubishi UFJ

acquire Home Credit PH

CONSUMER finance company Home Credit Philippines announced Friday the entry of new shareholders following the completion of its acquisition by Krungsri, the fifth largest financial group in Thailand and Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, a global financial leader from Japan at a base value of 406 million euros or P24.4 billion. Home Credit Philippines chief executive David Minol said the company has high hopes that with the support of Kungsri and MUFG, the financing company would sustain the growth momentum achieved in previous years.

“We are pleased to announce the handover of Home Credit Philippines to our new shareholders Krungsri and MUFG, both market leaders in the financial industry. Together with our new shareholders, we are opening the next chapter for Home Credit Philippines, building on the high performance that we have set over the past nine years. We are optimistic of our future together,” he said. He said the acquisition of Home Credit Philippines is a testament to the strong business it has established in the country and the growth opportunity that Krungsri and MUFG have seen for the company to further expand and maintain its dominance in the local consumer finance market. Othel V. Campos

BOC topped collection target of P72.3b in May

parent firm

FAR EASTERN Holdings Inc., a private company owned by the family of San Miguel Corp. president Ramon Ang, is acquiring 45 million common shares in listed Top Frontier Investment Holdings Inc. for P10.86 billion.

TFIHI said in a stock exchange filing Friday its board of directors approved FEHI’s subscription to 45 million shares priced at P241.42 apiece.

The acquisition price is more than double TFIHI’s closing price of P111 on Thursday. The shares, which will be listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange, will be paid in cash on June 30, 2023.

The acquisition will increase Ang’s ownership in TFIHI whose main assets include a 61.7-percent interest in conglomerate SMC

and 100-percent stake in mining firm Clariden Holdings Inc. Ang’s other private companies, Privado Holdings Corp. and Master Year Ltd., also hold 11.07-percent and 14.96-percent stake in TFIHI, respectively.

The board of TFIHI also approved to move the company’s annual stockholders meeting to Aug. 3 from July 11 to include the listing of the shares for approval in the agenda.

TFIHI issued in December 2022 over P50 billion worth of redeemable non-voting perpetual securities to FEHI.

The share price of TFIHI climbed 8.1 percent Friday to close at P120.

Jenniffer B. Austria

1,200-MW Ilijan gas plant resumes power supply

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Department of Energy said Friday the 1,200-megawatt Ilijan natural gas power plant in Batangas resumed supplying power to the Luzon grid on June 1.

It said that with the liquefied natural gas supplied by Linseed Field Corp.’s LNG terminal, the Ilijan natural gas power is now up and running.

“With the delivery of LNG, Ilijan is now supplying power to the grid beginning June 1, 2023, and is expected to improve its contribution to the energy supply in the Luzon grid, especially in the coming months,” the department said.

The Ilijan plant’s power generation capacity is now at 590 MW and is expected to reach full capacity next week, San Miguel Corp. officials said.

“It will provide stable, reliable, 1,200 MW of baseload power to the grid so it will avoid red or yellow alerts,” SMC president Ramon Ang said. The DOE also welcomed the recent develop-

ments on the LNG terminal of First Gen Corp. in Batangas.

“These facilities enable the importation of LNG into the country to support the continuous fuel supply of our gas-fired power plants,” the agency said.

It said the LNG facility constructed by FGEN LNG Corp. scheduled its first LNG cargo delivery window in the later part of the year.

“This will add to and secure the supply of natural gas for its power plants in Batangas,” it said.

The DOE also welcomed the partnership of FGEN and Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc. on the lease and operation of FGEN LNG terminal.

“All these developments are positive signals reflecting the continuous interest of the private sector in investing in critical infrastructures that will allow the country to import and utilize imported LNG and complement the available gas from the Malampaya reservoir to meet the country’s growing energy demand,” it said.

REVENUE collections by the Bureau of Customs reached P77.793 billion in May, surpassing its target of P72.350 billion for the month by P5.443 billion or 7.52 percent.

It said in a statement Friday the May collections were 17.36 percent or P11.505 billion better than a year ago.

This resulted in total revenue collections in the first five months of P359.175 billion, exceeding the target of P345.943 billion by P13.232 billion or 3.82 percent. This was also 12.06 percent or P38.661 billion higher than a year earlier.

The BOC attributed the improved collection performance to strategic initiatives aligned with Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio’s five-point priority program.

The first is the intensified anti-smuggling measures that have curtailed illicit activities and resulted in the seizure of contraband valued at over P19 billion.Julito G. Rada

PNR suspends service from Alabang to Calamba

THE daily trips of the Philippine National Railways between Alabang and Calamba route will be temporarily suspended starting July 2, 2023 to give way for the construction of the North-South Commuter Railway, according to the Department of Transportation.

The agency said only two trips would be affected by the route’s closure—the 4:38 a.m. trip and 7:56 p.m. trip. About 467 commuters take each trip daily.

DOTr Undersecretary for railways Cesar Chavez said an elevated, double-track and electrified train system would be built directly above the existing PNR tracks, speeding up the construction of the NSCR by eight months.

The new NSCR system will replace the PNR’s present street level, single track and diesel locomotive set-up.

The agency said while the NSCR is being constructed along the route, the following PNR stations would be temporarily unavailable: Alabang, Muntinlupa, San Pedro, Biñan, Sta. Rosa, Cabuyao, Mamatid and Calamba. Darwin G. Amojelar

BlueFloat acquires wind energy contracts in PH

SPANISH firm BlueFloat Energy announced Friday its market entry in the Philippines through the acquisition of wind energy service contracts for four sites in the Philippines—Central Luzon, South Luzon, Northern Luzon and Southern Mindoro.

“We are thrilled to bring BlueFloat Energy’s expertise and experience in offshore wind energy to the Philippines. We believe that by tapping into the country’s vast clean energy potential, we can make a significant contribution towards reducing carbon emissions and fostering a sustainable future for generations to come,” BlueFloat Energy Carlos Martin chief executive said during his visit to the country to announce the company’s market entry to the Philippines.

Offshore wind has emerged as one of the game changers in the global energy transition, providing scaled solutions to governments looking to shift towards renewable energy sources while achieving energy security.

The Philippine offshore wind roadmap released in April 2022 by the Department of Energy and the World Bank Group estimated that the Philippines has the potential to install 21 gigawatt-hours of offshore wind power by 2040.

BlueFloat Energy has been working for more than 18 months on unlocking this offshore wind potential by exploring the development of floating wind. Alena Mae S. Flores

DBP LOAN. State-owned Development Bank of the Philippines grants P441-million credit assistance for the development of a mini-hydroelectric plant in Kananga, Ormoc City, Leyte to achieve energy security and broaden access to clean energy sources in the province. DBP president and chief executive Michael de Jesus says the credit assistance to Leyte V Electric Cooperative Inc. under the bank’s Financing Utilities for Sustainable Energy Development is part of its continuing support to the national government’s drive to increase to 35 percent the share of renewable energy in the country’s power generation mix by 2030. Joining the capsule laying and groundbreaking ceremony of the LEYECO V 2MV Bao Hydroelectric Power Project are executives of DBP, LEYCO V, ECOGEN Renewable Energy Corp., Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association, MeadowLand Developer, National Electrification Administration and local officials of Leyte.

Butler: Heat need to match Nuggets’ physicality

DENVER—Miami star Jimmy Butler called on his team-mates to match Denver’s physicality after the Nuggets overpowered the Heat to win game one of the NBA Finals on Thursday.

A Denver side inspired by the towering figure of Nikola Jokic proved too strong for Miami, leading almost from start to finish at the Ball Arena to clinch a 104-93

Jokic later said Denver had been determined to land the “first punch” of the series, and Butler admitted Miami would need to up their physicality over the rest of the series.

“They came out with a lot of physicality, and we have to be able to match that,” Butler said.

“They did their job on their home floor, you have to say that, but we will be ready.

“We will adjust, and we will do some things very differently and come out here and be ready to give more for

PSC promises better medical staff, equipment for athletes

By Peter Atencio

THE Philippine Sports Commission promised improvements on how to take care of Filipino athletes recovering from fatigue after competition and those injured in their tour of duty.

PSC chairman Richard Bachmann promised this as the country prepares to send a national delegation to the coming Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.

Bachmann saw the need for the government sports agency to step up in this area after spending a lot of time watching athletes train, prepare, compete and recover in the recent 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Phnom Penh.

The PSC chief and the commissioners who joined him in Cambodia saw Filipino athletes get injured and suffer from

cramps and other medical issues after their events have ended.

Prime example was top Filipino fencer Samantha Catantan, who was injured during t he semifinals of her campaign. She settled for a silver medal, aft er she was forced to concede her finals’ encounter with Singaporean opponent Maxine Wong.

“We need to correct mistakes at this point,” said Bachmann, who felt that the agency needs to deploy more physical therapists during the SEA Games, adding

that more medical personnel should be made available during the coming Asiad.

For Bachmann, this means that the therapists of the Medical Scientific Athletes Services Team of the PSC should be bolstered to handle situations involving athletes during international competitions better.

Bachmann talked of the need to deploy more PTS and masseuse following talks with Asian Games chef de mission Richard Gomez last week.

Sports officials of the Philippine Olympic Committee also took note of the need to have a designated room or tent at every competition venue where Filipino athletes compete. The area will be used exclusively by medical people to work on athletes, who are injured and those recovering for their next events.

POC president Abraha m Tolentino

Constantino eyes record run at LPGT Valley

HARMIE Constantino, fired-up by a playoff victory at Luisita and a comefrom-behind win at Villamor, can hardly wait to get going in chase of a third straight championship in the ICTSI Valley Golf Challenge, which unwraps on June 6 in Antipolo.

Although Epson Tour campaigner Pauline del Rosario had won four championships in a dominant Ladies Philippine Golf Tour rookie season in 2017 which she spiked with a stirring victory in the LPGA Tour of Taiwan, no player has racked up three straight victories in the country’s premier ladies circuit put up by ICTSI.

After two failed bids, del Rosario won back-to-back at Orchard and Baguio, won again at Pradera Verde after yielding the crown to Abby Arevalo at Riviera and reigned again at Splendido Taal after placing third

By Randy Caluag

GINEBRA coach Tim Cone has one thing that he must accomplish to come full circle as a “Filipino” at heart.

His old classmates and their families in Baler, Aurora have embraced Cone as one of their own when the accomplished American coach stayed in the northern province during his childhood as his father worked at a logging company.

The interesting photo of Cone with his classmates at Baler Central School in 1967 was posted on the social media page of Batang Baler and many of his classmates posted comments, reminiscing the days of his stay in the province.

“Iyan si Tim Cone naglalakad din iyan nong araw nagdi-dribble ng bola pauwi sa logpond nila sa Castillo.

Kung minsan nakasakay sa pickup (truck) nila together with sister Julie,” recalled Claro Gonzales.

Mervin Rubio recognized their teacher (beside Cone) and even asked if he

at Forest Hills.

“I’ll just stick to my game plan –hit the fairways and greens and make the most of my birdie chances,” said Constantino after completing her triumphant rally at Villamor last week.

But the rolling Valley South poses a far more daunting challenge for the LPGT field from each tee mound all the way to the green with terrors lurking from every corner of a course which requires accuracy and sound decision-making.

Constantino, in fact, posted a 16over 231 total when she tied for third in last year’s Valley Ladies Challenge topped by top amateur Rianne Malixi, who outgunned the pro field and beat Chihiro Ikeda by 13 strokes.

But with the talented Constantino in great shape and exuding confidence, the former national cham-

pion, who also marked her debut in 2021 with two victories, both at Eagle Ridge-Aoki, is all ready for a crack at a record run in the P750,000 championship.

Ikeda, however, will be riding on her runner-up finish at Villamor to spark a title campaign while Sarah Ababa, Gretchen Villacencio, Florence Bisera and Daniella Uy are all keen on mounting their respective bids in the 54-hole championship organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. and held side-by-side with the 72-hole men’s championship. Completing the cast are Sheryl Villacensio, Lovelynn Guioguio, Lucy Landicho, Eva Miñoza, Apple Fudolin, Korean Juyoung Yang, the comebacking Martina Miñoza and Lesley Icoy, and young guns Rev Alcantara and Monica Mandario.

noted how efficiently Singapore took care of its athletes during the last SEA Games, with its army of medical experts, tents, exercise machines and other equipment available to their athletes after their competition. They also have medical gear to deal with injuries.

“We don’t have machines. I did not see machines there. We had to rely on SEA Games’ organizers for the machines,” said Bachmann.

Tolentino said a new system to deal with medical issues in international meet is now in the works.

“There will be a new template for medical teams, PTs and masseurs. Meron na binuo and POC medical and PT teams for every international meet. Nakita na natin kung ano ang need (during the SEA Games, at kung saan sila papupuntahin,” said Tolentino.

game two.”

Miami trailed by as many as 24 points in the third quarter before closing the gap in the fourth.

Butler maintained that Miami’s performance would “look way worse than it really is” when the team pores over footage of game one ahead of game two on Sunday.

“But that’s the only way you’re going to learn from it,” said Butler, who was restricted to just 13 points from 6-of-14 shooting in a subdued performance.

Butler, who made no trips to the foul line throughout, vowed to take a more aggressive approach in game two on Sunday when Miami try to square the series.

“Maybe I have to be a little bit more aggressive,” he said. “I’ve got to put pressure on the rim. Me with no free throws, that was all on myself, nobody else.

“So we’ll definitely correct that the next game, but only I can do that.” AFP

RIANNE Malixi charged back from two backside double bogeys with three birdies but wavered in the last nine holes as she posted 31 Stableford points and trailed Yana Wilson by 10 at the start of the Mizuho Americans Open-AJGA Juniors in New Jersey Thursday.

Three bogeys in the last eight holes at the frontside of the Liberty National Golf Club negated Malixi’s big recovery from a pair of 7s in the first two par-5s (Nos. 10 and 13) as she put in a 39-38 round for a fiveover 77 output in stroke play.

It was worth 31 points under the Stableford scoring format where a double eagle is worth 8 points, eagle 5 points, birdie 3 points, par 2 points and bogey 1 point. No points are awarded to a double bogey or worse scores.

The ICTSI-backed Malixi earned nine points from her birdies on Nos. 11, 16 and 18, and 18 points from nine pars but settled for points on her four bogeys on Nos. 2, 5, 9 and 17.

That dropped her to joint 18th with three others in a field of 24 made up of the leading players in the American Junior Golf Association, who are vying for their own individual title side-by-side with the LPGA Tour.

Wilson, meanwhile, flashed top form and fired five birdies for a solid 67 worth 41 points as she led Elizabeth Rudisill, who posted 38 points from a gross 70, by three, while Leigh Chien and Michelle Liu matched 37s points from a pair of 71s.

AJGA No. 1 Gianna Clemente and No. 2 Alice Zhao outshot the No. 7 Malixi in the featured flight with 34 and 33 points, respectively, but the 16-year-old Filipina shotmaker hopes to rebound in a switch in teetimes Friday.

Tim Cone’s classmates in Baler long for his visit

ever included Cone in the farm work, which was part of the industrial arts subject in public elementary school. “Ang tikas pala ni Mr. Custodio (teacher, beside Cone in photo) noon pa, pinag gamas din kaya si Tim Cone.”

“Very humble talaga si uncle Erning (teacher). ‘Di man lang nya nabanggit samin na mga pamangkin nya na naging estudyante nya pla si coach Tim,” said Rowel Magpantay.

Cone was born in the United States before moving to the Philippines when he was nine years old with his family, as his father was employed at a logging company in Baler. He stayed there briefly before going to Manila, where he transferred to an International School.

They headed back home to the US and after finishing college, Cone went back to the Philippines at the age of 24 and eventually got a coaching job with Alaska.

Malixi 10 points adrift in AJGA; Saso in LPGA mix with 69

Harmie Constantino

The young Tim Cone with his classmates at Baler Central School year 1967. Photo from Batang Baler FB page The rest was history as he won 25 titles. including two grand slams in the PBA. He also mentored the national teams in the 1998 Asian Games and the 1998 Jones Cup.

“Kaya pala maraming Ginebra dito sa Baler,” joked Kristofe Lozur Acipap. But kidding aside, Baler folks have embraced Cone as one of their own, and would make them very happy if

the multi-titled basketball coach, who is married to a Filipina, visits Baler and reconnects with his schoolmates. “Sana naman makaalala (Cone),” said Vincent Dugenia.

Eluria reimagines exclusivity, sustainable elegance

GREEN developer

Arthaland, in partnership with ARCH Capital, is building Eluria, an art-inspired condominium development along Rada Street in Legazpi Village, Makati City.

Featuring 37 limited edition units that offer a high degree of elegance and craftsmanship, the project sits in the middle of the Makati business district with easy access to retail and commercial establishments, restaurants, cultural destinations, medical facilities, and world-class institutions.

Treehouse concept

According to Sydney-based architecture and interior design firm FMB Architects, the contemporary treehouse concept of Eluria was developed from the pressing need for high-quality, vertical living spaces in our cities. People want to live in the city, with the same quality of life afforded by living in a house with a garden.

Eluria boasts premier concierge services and raises the bar with personalized whiteglove services courtesy of internationally trained hospitality directors. Carefully selected for their professionalism, attention to detail, and excellent interpersonal skills, these individuals will undergo an intensive 10-week training program through The International Butler Academy (TIBA) in the Netherlands. TIBA is the most innovative butler service training institute in the world. They train butlers for prestigious clients, including royal families, high-net- worth individuals, and luxury hotels and resorts.

one to two units per floor, with units ranging from 287 square meters to 578 square meters for the penthouse suite. Residents will have direct and secure access to their unit through private lifts equipped with destination control RFID technology. There will also be a separate service elevator that opens to the unit’s service area, fire exit, and valet box. Amenities include a two-lane heated saltwater leisure and lap pool, an indoor children’s playroom, a

function hall, and a Potager Garden at the roof deck. Residents may also avail themselves of complimentary chauffeur shuttle services to select nearby destinations. The pick-up and drop-off area is in a secluded part of the building for added security and privacy

Eluria has been pre-certified LEED Gold, and is on track for WELL, EDGE, and BERDE green certifications. The project broke ground last November 2022 and construction recently reached a major milestone with the first concrete pour. Eluria is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2026. Signature experience Arthaland is giving future residents a glimpse of the Eluria lifestyle through a series of activities dubbed Eluria Signature Experience. It will be tapping world-renowned and multi-awarded local talents who have excelled in their own respective fields to showcase Filipino ingenuity and excellence as part of its sustainability commitment.

The first activity was recently headlined by Asia’s Best Female Chef of 2023 as voted by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, Chef Johanne Siy, who regaled guests at the Eluria model unit with a 6-course tasting menu featuring her take on sustainability. The Eluria model unit was curated by Adefuin Design Studio, who took inspiration from tents used by royalty in the Middle East.

Best-in-class properties

Arthaland is the only real estate developer in the Philippines with a portfolio that is 100% certified as sustainable by both local and global organizations. It has made its mark in the Philippine real estate industry by pioneering the development and management of exceptional best-in-class properties that adhere to international and local standards.

For more information about Eluria, visit www.arthaland.com.

Sneak peek into the affluent life

THE well-off invariably prefer a home that is in worldclass addresses and offers unique features that cater to their lifestyle. Such home choices are The Residences at The Westin Manila and Le Pont Residences, two properties developed by RLC Residences. Located at the heart of Ortigas Center, The Residences at The Westin Manila is considered one of its kind with expansive living spaces, branded home fixtures, and hotel-inspired facilities – all geared towards the wellness of its residents.

Le Pont Residences, at the Bridgetowne Destination Estate, offers units ranging from 46 to 381 sqm. in size. Its one, two, three, and top-floor homes also come with its own extended outdoor space called the loggia, allowing residents to relax with the view of the estate.

Additionally, these units are equipped with smart home devices, work-from-home spaces, and choice finishes such as porcelain and glass. Learn more about these prime properties by visiting rlcresidences.com or follow RLC Residences on Facebook and Instagram.

Eton Properties’ president and chief executive officer Kyle Tan

NAILING THE BIG PLUMS. P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation (P.A. Properties) recently bagged two awards from the Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG). The company was recognized by Pag-IBIG as Northern Luzon’s Top 8 Pag-IBIG Fund Accredited Developer for 2022, as well as the Highest Performing Loans Ratio among Pag-IBIG Fund Accredited Developers in North Luzon. The company had previously been recognized by Pag-IBIG as one of their top developers at the 2022 Pag-IBIG Fund Stakeholders’ Accomplishment Report (StAR), ranking 7th in the National Capital Region and 8th in Northern Luzon from Q1-Q3. They also ranked 9th for Pag-IBIG Fund’s Accredited Developer Excellence Award for 2022 last March 24, 2023 during the Pag-IBIG Chairman’s Report for 2022.P.A. Properties is one of the rapidly expanding real estate developers in the country. The company has completed the development of more than 180 hectares of land and constructed over 20,000 housing and condominium units across 40 communities located in Laguna, Batangas, Cavite, Bulacan, Pampanga, and Metro Manila. At the awarding ceremonies were P.A. Properties President and CEO Atty. Marianne Reyna Lina-Cruz (center); and VP for Documentation and Collection Ms. Evelyn Buco (left).

SHFC awards land titles to Laguna families

FORTY-FIVE families from Calamba, Laguna are now rightful landowners after receiving their transfer certificates of title from the Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) on May 17.

The new title holders are Unlad Pabahay sa Bañadero Phase 1 Homeowners’ Association, Inc. members who have fulfilled their loan obligations with SHFC, a key shelter agency under the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development.

The awarding ceremony, held at the Jose Rizal Memorial School in Calamba, was led by SHFC Mega Manila II Vice President Josefina Banglagan and Vice Mayor Angelito Lazaro, Jr. Banglagan,

Eton Properties to expand in Central Visayas,

south of MM

who was representing SHFC President and CEO Federico Laxa in the ceremony, said the occasion marked a significant milestone for the community.

The title awardees are now part of about 400,000 families who have attained land tenure security through the Community Mortgage Program (CMP), which lends funds to legally organized informal settlers to acquire privately owned land that they have been occupying.

Aside from the CMP, SHFC implements the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. This shelter initiative seeks to address the 6.5 million housing gap in the country.

LUCIO Tan Group’s real estate developer Eton Properties Philippines Inc. (EPPI) recently bared plans to build another integrated township development in Central Visayas and expand its community components at Eton City in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. Newlyappointed Eton Properties’ president and chief executive officer Kyle Tan, said the company’s plan to expand its core businesses is a strategic move that will help drive the company’s growth for the next five to 10 years.

The 35-hectare property located in Lapu-Lapu City in Mactan Island, Cebu, will feature a 600-meter beachfront, beautiful sandy beach cover, and an internal lagoon area. The 641-hectare Eton City is envisioned to be the most exciting business tourism and residential district in the South of Metro Manila. The township has its own commercial and retail district, Eton City Square, with four residential villages, such as TierraBela, West Wing Residences, South Lake Village, and RiverBend. Eton Properties is the real estate brand of the Lucio Tan Group.

The ‘Mass Transpo dilemma’

IN mega cities such as Hongkong, Singapore, Japan, or even South Korea, anybody can go places on foot, especially tourists when they are going on a shopping spree, or simply strolling along and exploring the new places they are visiting.

As a tourist, one long stretch of a main road in most of these cities can be explored through walking, and you can get lost for a few minutes - even hours - without any need for hitching a ride. Yet once you need one, they are readily available at all times - very comfortable and inexpensive, too.

In Manila, traveling around the city would require constantly catching a ride. For instance, a Mandaluyong resident without a car would have to call a taxi or a motorcycle taxi to get to his place of employment in a nearby Rockwell in Makati. Imagine there is simply a bridge between the two locations.

The lack of an adequate mass transit system continues to be the principal issue plaguing Metro Manila’s lower classes.

AS FAR as motorcycle forms go, few are as admired as the bobber style. With its minimalist yet muscular lines and distinctive riding position will give any big bike enthusiast a sense of authority when tackling the road.

To give Filipino riders the chance to experience this classic bike, Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI) recently introduced The All-New Rebel1100. This big bike model features an eye-catching modern bobber design, a classic single-round LED headlight, and hunched fuel tank. Not only does this design evoke vintageinspired styling, but it also gives the rider a relaxed riding posture. This allows the rider to experience a comfortable—and sophisticated—riding experience that’s perfect for both long and short-distance travels. And since it comes at a suggested retail price of PhP650,000, owning this stylish and high performing big bike is within easy reach.

MPT Mobility provides smart solutions for LGUs

MPT Mobility, the innovations arm of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), launched its Smart Urban Mobility Solutions™ (SUM Solutions™) suite, which aims to collaborate with local government units (LGUs) under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement to address mobility challenges in their local areas through tech-driven mobility solutions.

SUM Solutions is a land mobility ecosystem that provides intelligent transportation management systems, peak-hour congestion pricing solutions, area-based monitoring and enforcement capabilities, smart parking systems, efficient public transportation and fleet management solutions, and roadside assistance support. These integrated services, supported by relevant policies from the LGUs, will help create more efficient transportation systems, reduce congestion, and promote road safety among their constituents.

MPTC and MPT Mobility’s CEO Rodrigo E.

Franco shared how PPPs pave the way to projects that speed up progress on the local level,

“We highlight our capability to finance, construct, and operate major projects with LGUs, and one particular success story is the CCLEX (Cebu Cordova Link Expressway) project, which is a joint venture with Cebu City and the municipality of Cordova. We are excited to work with LGUs to provide solutions, address their mobility problems, and create lasting social impact and value in the lives of their residents, allowing them to move freely and provide opportunities to improve local economies.”

The All-New Rebel1100’s styling is vintageinspired, its performance specifications are definitely avant-garde. Specifically, this bike is powered by a 1,083cc, Parallel-Twin Cylinder, Liquid-Cooled, Single-Overhead Cam (SOHC) engine capable of producing 64kW of power @7,000rpm, and 98Nm of torque @ 4,750rpm. When combined with the bike’s 6-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)—Honda’s exclusive automatic-style shifting clutch—you get a bike that provides the rider with exceptional riding confidence and performance control. It also comes with Cruise Control, and advanced Selectable Riding Mode. The Cruise Control feature allows the rider to maintain a steady speed within a specified range. This greatly helps reduce fatigue when traveling long distances making sure the rider arrives comfortable after a long road trip. Meanwhile, the Selectable Riding Mode enables the rider to choose from four performance modes: Standard, Sport, Rain, and User, each of which offers different levels of power feel, torque control, engine brake, and shift schedule. Standard mode is ideal for everyday riding in optimal conditions. Perfect for cruising around the city. Sport

mode gives you a more aggressive throttle response. Great for winding road conditions and performanceoriented riding. Rain mode provides maximum safety control in wet conditions.

Finally, this big bike offers all of its advanced performance potentials while maintaining a safe ride. This is achieved via the bike’s front and rear disc brakes with 2-Channel ABS and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) with Wheelie Control. The bike’s braking system ensures you’re able to stop immediately without giving up control. The exclusive HSTC system with Wheelie Control is engineered to maintain proper grip when driving over slippery roads increasing the rider’s sense of security. The big bike also has a USB Socket Type C under the seat for charging your phone and other gadgets. And all of these systems can be monitored efficiently on the bike’s high-tech inverted LCD meter display.

With all these advanced features and eye-catching modern bobber design, The All-New Rebel1100 is the perfect choice for Filipino riders looking to up their game in both style and performance.

Jetour Auto PH commits to 16 new dealerships in 2023

JETOUR Auto Philippines is making aggressive moves to grow its footprint in the country, announcing that it will open 16 new dealerships this year.

These facilities will be located in strategic areas across the Philippines, including Pasay, Las Piñas, Eton Centris (Quezon City), Fairview, Pampanga, Isabela, Alabang, Batangas, and Quezon Avenue in Luzon; Cebu, Iloilo, and Bacolod in Visayas; and Davao, Gensan, Cagayan de Oro, and Butuan in Mindanao.

The locations have been chosen based on their potential for growth, along with their proximity to existing customers.

The dealerships will offer the range of JETOUR vehicles, including the popular Dashing and Ice Cream, the X70 seven-seater SUV, and the X70 Plus. Customers can also expect topnotch after-sales service, including maintenance and repair services and a wide range of genuine parts and accessories.

“We are delivering on our promise when we launched the brand,” said JETOUR Auto Philippines Managing Director Miguelito Jose. “And we will continue to work to bring our products and services closer to more Filipinos. We

THE Autohub Group of Companies, with 24 years of experience in the automotive industry, continues to

are confident that our experienced dealer principals and dedicated teams will uphold our commitment to customer satisfaction and deliver the best possible experience to all our customers.” The opening of the 16 new dealerships will mark another milestone in JETOUR Auto Philippines’ commitment to

expanding its reach and delivering highquality vehicles and services to customers nationwide.

For more information about JETOUR Auto Philippines and its range of vehicles and services, visit https://www.jetourauto. ph/; like and follow the brand’s Facebook page (JETOUR Auto Philippines).

Many people are willing to walk a mile every day to get to their place of employment. Consider those who arrive at the recently built bus stop at the intersection of EDSA and Makati Avenue. Even though their workplaces are located at Makati Medical Center, which is a distance of several kilometers, the majority of them no longer ride to get there. This is due to the accessible elevated walkway that is covered.

Let’s return to the main concern, which is the mass transit system. Slowly but surely, new bus lines have been established, and older jeepneys have been replaced with more modern, larger vehicles.

It’s fantastic that motorbike taxis have already begun to appear. Even though it is still in its early stages, Metro Manila commuters who were grumbling about their unpleasant experiences with the LRT, MRT, and yes, those cabs have embraced this new mode of transportation.

Grab, JoyRide, and Move It are the most recent to jump on board. It’s encouraging to see that certain private companies are prepared to make large investments in order to help Metro Manila’s unfortunate commuters.

We know that “Move It,” which Grab acquired, is releasing a new, cutting-edge technology in their updated smartphone app so commuters who wish to use their services may do so effortlessly and safely aroundthe-clock. According to Move It, the in-app VOIP calling capability offers privacy and convenience while doing away with the need for outside messaging services. With the help of its brand-new Share-MyRide tool, users can also quickly and conveniently share ride information with loved ones, ensuring continual updates on their whereabouts while riding. The integration of GrabMaps and Navigation, a sophisticated online mapping system driven by Grab’s huge data, with Move It, however, should be commended as it will guarantee accurate pinning for pick-up and dropoff locations.

But many more must be done to improve the situation of our daily commuters. In order to prioritize the construction of a mass transit system, the terrible traffic must be alleviated as quickly as possible, and additional roads and bridges within the city must be given priority.

Guinness World Record-breaking HONOR Magic5 Pro coming to PH

THE leading global provider for smart devices, HONOR Philippines, officially revealed that the Magic they are unveiling on June 8, 2023 is the highly anticipated HONOR Magic5 Pro.

Topping the strong legacy of the flagship HONOR Magic Series, the HONOR Magic5 Pro adopts enhanced hardware with discrete chipsets and advanced technologies, combined with the best software solutions to deliver an industry benchmark-breaking flagship smartphone

“We are extremely excited to Unleash the Power of Magic on June 8, 2023 so join us live to unveil the HONOR Magic5 Pro. Witness the real Magic as we share the breakthroughs in design, display, photography and performance of this new HONOR flagship,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

Inspired by the aesthetics of symmetry, the HONOR Magic5 Pro showcases exquisite craftsmanship and design with harmonious bezels on both sides and a Star Wheel Triple Camera Design sitting as the centerpiece on the back cover. The new HONOR flagship is also equipped with a super large 5100mAh battery that enables maximum mobility and uninterrupted work and play!

An Unrivaled Falcon Triple Camera System

With a Super Triple Falcon Camera System that boasts 50MP Wide Camera, 50MP Ultra Wide Camera, 50MP Periscope Telephoto Camera and a Multispectrum Color Sensor, it is without a doubt that HONOR Magic5 Pro has achieved the Rank #1 in the DXOMARK Smartphone Camera Ranking for the first quarter of this year.

The camera also sports a breakthrough AI Motion Sensing Capture,

The much-awaited HONOR Magic5 Pro will o cially hit stores on June 8, 2023. Catch it live on HONOR Philippines’ Facebook Page (https://fb.me/e/T11UD2VR) at 7PM and get a chance to win exciting prizes.

enabling users to shoot their best moments, every time. The HONOR Magic5 Pro is equipped with IMAX

Enhanced Movie Master to produce cinematic-style videos, taking videography to a whole new level.

A Premium Display at the Top of DXOMARK Rankings

The HONOR Magic5 Pro has also seized the #1 position in the DXOMARK Smartphone Display ranking. Featuring a 6.81-inch LTPO Quad-Curved Floating Display with a Novel Display Luminance Enhancement Technology, the HONOR Magic5 Pro guarantees an immersive viewing experience whether you are browsing, gaming, or reading.

Powered by the latest Snapdragon®

8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform and supported by HONOR’s GPU Turbo X, the HONOR Magic5 Pro delivers an unrivaled flagship performance, enabling enhanced productivity and entertainment at all times.

A water and dust-resistant Flagship

The HONOR Magic5 Pro is designed with IP68 water and dust resistance, offering effective protection from dust, rain and water. The durable device can also withstand being submerged in water of depths up to 1.5m for 30 minutes, demonstrating HONOR’s exquisite craftsmanship and exceptional product quality. HONOR Magic5 Pro will be officially launched on June 8, 2023 and you can catch it live on HONOR Philippines’ Facebook Page (https://fb.me/e/T11UD2VR) at 7 p.m. and get a chance to win exciting prizes!

For more updates and announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www. hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https:// www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

Meralco Enterprise energizes Atkins’ largest solar-powered cold storage facility in South Luzon

THE Manila Electric Company (Meralco) successfully energized the newest cold storage facility of Atkins Import and Export Resources, Inc. as part of its efforts to support the national government’s thrust to achieve food security in the Philippines. This facility is notably Atkins’ largest in South Luzon and the first to utilize clean energy utilizing a solar panel system.

In partnership with Meralco Enterprise, Atkins expects the collaboration to generate 1,362,100 kWh of clean energy every year, resulting in around PhP 9.5 million in annual savings for the company. It will also help reduce Atkins’ carbon footprint by 970 tonnes, equivalent to over 44,500 trees planted or saving nearly 3.9 million kilometers of car travel per year.

Now Atkins’ sixth in Luzon, this recently inaugurated facility in Naic, Cavite, can store up to 14,000,000 kilograms or 14,000 metric tons of agricultural products. As an importer and distributor of quality meat products sourced all over the world, Atkins utilizes a 976.8 kilowattpeak (kWp) solar panel system to energize the new cold storage facility.

As part of its long-term commitment to deliver stable and reliable electricity to its customers,

Acer unveils 1st eco-friendly Wi-Fi 6E mesh router

ACER recently unveiled the Acer Connect Vero W6m mesh router, its first eco-friendly Wi-Fi 6E router that incorporates post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials in its chassis and features an Eco mode for efficient energy consumption.

The router is powered by a quad-core 2 Ghz processor and includes a bundle of enhanced connectivity, coverage, and security features, including Wi-Fi 6E Tri-Band AXE7800[ ,2] capability and compliance with Radio Equipment Directive (RED) EN 303 645 articles 3.3 Cyber Security Standards.

“We are thrilled to expand Acer’s portfolio of network devices with the launch of the Acer Connect Vero W6m Wi-Fi 6E mesh router, engineered with support for Wi-Fi 6E tri-band connectivity to provide swift and secure connections with vast network coverage within any home or office locations,” said Wayne Ma, General Manger, IoB, IT Products Business, Acer Inc. “The performance-driven router is also the latest addition to our growing Vero line of eco-conscious products, embodying Acer’s commitment to fulfilling its environmental responsibility and helping minimize carbon footprint.”

Fast and Seamless Wi-Fi 6E Connections

Meralco actively ensured and continues to ensure timely service to Atkins’ cold storage facility. The company previously helped secure right-ofway permits and provided technical assistance that allowed Atkins to meet the energization schedule, which averted unnecessary costs and lost business opportunities.

“As this partnership with Atkins is vital in ensuring food supply in the country, it also reaffirms Meralco’s commitment to actively supporting agri-ventures that pave the way toward nation-building. We hope that energizing this breakthrough facility will trigger meaningful conversations about food security,” said Engr. Cecille M. Domingo, Vice President and Head, Meralco Enterprise and National Government, Meralco.

“For us at Atkins, building more cold storage facilities is our solution to food security, which many recognize as a long-standing issue due to the scarcity of such facilities that can house agricultural products. And through our partnership with Meralco Enterprise, we can do more with our energy savings and sustainable operations— a huge help when realizing our goals,” said Gabriel Ang, President of Atkins Import and Export Resources, Inc.

The Acer Connect Vero W6m, Acer’s first eco-friendly router, comes with Wi-Fi 6E connectivity and conforms with security standards set by the European Commission’s Radio Equipment Directive. Capable of supporting Wi-Fi 6E Triband (2.4 Ghz/5 Ghz/6 Ghz[1,2]) AXE7800 throughput, the device provides speeds of up to 7.8 Gbps to deliver fast, stable internet connections when online. The Wi-Fi 6E router can also be paired with up to 4 units and features impressive network ranges of up to 465 m2 on a dual mesh system and up to 930 m2 on a quad mesh system to help eliminate dead spots in larger coverage areas[1,3]. Powered by a quadcore 2 GHz A53 processor with 1 GB LPDDR RAM and 4 GB memory capacity, the Acer Connect Vero W6m is engineered to keep up with highbandwidth requirements.

The new Vero router also gives great importance to data protection and security as it is the first Wi-Fi 6E mesh router to pass EU EN 303 645 (RED) Cyber Security Standards. It also comes with a dedicated WPS button for effortless network security setups. The router is further optimized with intelligent device/application recognition and standard LAN and WAN ports for added connection flexibility.

Eco-Conscious Inside and Out Designed with the environment in mind, Acer’s commitment to reducing CO2 emissions is reflected in every aspect of the device, from its chassis to energy-efficient features. It also utilizes 100% recyclable paper in its packaging.

Vikings Group credits operational success to decade-long partnership with PLDT Enterprise

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT restaurants have long been part of the Filipino dining culture, where birthdays, graduations, and special occasions are celebrated with families and friends; and there’s no venue more fitting than Vikings, the country’s leading buffet restaurant. Whether it’s Western, Chinese, Japanese, European, Filipino cuisine, Vikings is sure to satisfy anyone’s craving for a hearty feast.

Supporting the company’s growth is PLDT Enterprise, whose role in the food service industry is to provide digital infrastructure, communication, and connectivity services to help businesses like Vikings transform and optimize their operations.

“Digital advancements in restaurants have brought about significant changes in the way these businesses operate,” says Ding Villarino, Vice President and Head of Enterprise Revenue Group at PLDT Enterprise. “It’s always been our mission to help them stay competitive, grow, and succeed in a rapidly changing digital landscape.”

A modest beginning

Like most successful businesses, Vikings had its fair share of difficulties before becoming a powerhouse in the luxury buffet industry.

“We had a challenging start before going into digital transformation. We used to handle incoming calls manually with just two lines in our stores,” explains Jackson Go, Managing Director at Vikings Group. “Intermittent internet connections slowed down our operations when we had to accommodate approximately 1,500 reservations daily.”

Dedicated to meeting the demands of their customers, the Vikings Group relied on PLDT Enterprise to help improve their operations.

One of the solutions they implemented is PLDT Enterprise’s iGate Premium, which guarantees reliable and stable connectivity to support their day-to-day operations.

“Without connectivity, businesses may risk losing customers, fall behind in the market, or miss out on growth opportunities,” Villarino explains. “For our partners, subscribing to our iGate solution provides them a secure connectivity so they may thrive in the digital age.”

A growth in partnership

PLDT Enterprise has been trusted by the Vikings Group for a decade now, and the longterm collaboration changed the company’s

performance for the better. Aside from iGate, Vikings also relied on PLDT Enterprise for its communications support. “We haven’t been experiencing any internet downtime which is essential to the business, so we had to support this further in our operations,” says Go. “Now, as we continue to grow, we also use around 80 Smart Prepaid accounts for a number of our employees which helps us connect with each other and our clients better and easier.”

Since the partnership, the Vikings Group has improved their operations by accommodating higher volume of calls, inquiries, and reservations. From two phone lines in-store, the Vikings Group has now expanded to ten, which includes message-recording features for the security of their transactions.

“PLDT Enterprise helps us connect with our clients better, and that allowed us to increase our sales and improve the overall customer experience,” Go adds. “We’re grateful that we chose PLDT Enterprise as our partner in our transformation journey, and we look forward to continuing our partnership to drive future innovation in our company.”

Shown here are (from left) Atkins’ EVP-CRO and CSO Medardo Deacosta Jr., Atkins’ Senior Operations Manager Benedict Bautista, Hillary Ang, Helen Ang, Atkins’ President and CEO Gabriel Ang, Spectrum Head of Commercial Services Rodolfo Lim Jr., Meralco VP and Head of Enterprise and National Government Ma. Cecilia M. Domingo, and Meralco Head of Enterprise Industrial Victor L. Risma IV.

here are (from left)Michael