Manila Standard - 2023 June 10 - Saturday

20,000 flee restive Mayon

Blast at summit sign of possible eruption as Albay declares state of calamity

By Charles Dantes, Rio N. Araja, and Maricel V. Cruz

MAYON Volcano’s crater glowed well into the night on Friday as state volcanologists said it erupted at the summit and a bigger blast was possible, while authorities evacuated thousands of residents from its surrounding towns and awaited an escalation to Alert Level 4, one step higher than the activity that saw the lava flow down its slopes yesterday.

The Albay provincial government on Friday declared a state of calamity as

Gov’t keeping close eye on Taal, Kanlaon activities too

By Charles Dantes

THE Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has ordered its offices in the Bicol region and Calabarzon to heighten their monitoring activities and to coordinate with their

respective communities amid the increased activity from Mayon and Taal volcanoes.

Civil Defense Administrator and National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC)

By Joel E. Zurbano and Macon Ramos-Araneta

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), the country’s premier gateway, suffered another 30-minute-long power outage on Friday – barely a month after a similar brownout on Labor Day -- as travelers sought to leave for the long Independence Day weekend.

The power interruption

Focus on besting 6% GDP growth, lawmakers urged

By Maricel V. Cruz

SENIOR Deputy Speaker and Pampanga

3rd District Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr. urged the House of Representatives to remain committed to working on measures that would sustain the country’s

economic growth.

He made the appeal in reaction to the World Bank’s decision to upgrade its economic outlook for the Philippines for this year from a range of 5.4 to 5.6 percent to a full six percent.

This came after Speaker Martin

Romualdez said the House would not allow distractions in formulating policies for the benefit of the Filipino people. Romualdez issued the statement as the World Bank projected a 6% gross domestic product (GDP) growth for the Philippines this year.

DMW lists 20 ‘cardinal sins’ for recruitment agencies

Executive Director, Undersecretary

Ariel Nepomuceno said the OCD is coordinating with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) and other government agencies in its continuous monitoring.

By Vince Lopez

AN expected El Nino climate phenomenon has arrived, raising fears of extreme weather and temperature records, scientists at the US National Oceanic and At mospheric Administration said Thursday.

“We are coordinating with Phivolcs on the volcanic activities of Mayon and Taal as well as with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Health, and our counterparts in

Number coding shelved for June 12 celebrations

Marcos Jr. directed all government agencies to strictly implement water conservation measures In light of the possible El Niño long dry spell.

Marked by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the

MAYON AGLOW. Mayon Volcano's crater is aglow with fresh lava in this photo taken at 8:30 p.m. last night by Phivolcs, while James Albert Polero's photo shows pyroclastic movement as seen from Brgy. Bonga, Bacacay, Albay, on Friday (inset). The entire province of Albay has been placed under a state of calamity as police help residents climb onto trucks to take them away from the volcano's danger zone. Phivolcs, Albay PNP photos

ROCKET PART. The Philippine Coast Guard shows a portion of a

April unemployment drops to 4.5%

By Julito G. Rada, Vince Lopez, and Macon Ramos-Araneta

THE country’s unemployment rate dropped to 4.5 percent in April 2023 from 5.7 percent a year ago and 4.7 percent in March 2023 as more jobs were created during the month, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Friday.

The PSA said the number of unemployed persons in April 2023 was estimated at 2.26 million, a decline of 506,000 from the 2.76 million unemployed persons in April 2022.

In a press briefing, National Statistician and Civil Registrar General Dennis Mapa

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Mayon's unrest prompted the evacuation of at least 20,000 residents around its six-kilometer permanent danger zone and nearby areas, according to local officials.

The state of calamity is expected to speed up the release of funds to assist the affected residents. Classes were also suspended in schools within Mayon’s danger zone.

An eruption occurred on the summit of Mayon a day after its alert level status was raised to 3, meaning "an increased tendency towards hazardous eruption," the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) confirmed Friday.

The volcano emitted plumes that reached 800 meters tall, while its edifice was also inflated.

In a TV interview, Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol said an eruption and six pyroclastic density currents (PDC) were recorded from the volcano.

“This would imply a continuous supply of magma to the surface, dislodging all the new surface of the lava dome," Bacolcol said. “Right now, there is an eruption on the summit.”

Raising the alert level in the active volcano in Albay signifies an "increased tendency towards a hazardous eruption,” Phivolcs said.

It also said the repeated collapse of the volcano's growing summit dome has generated an increasing number and volume of rockfall events since the alert level was

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Bicol Region and Calabarzon for interventions that need to be implemented,” Nepomuceno said.

“Mayon Volcano is now at alert level 3. We call on the communities in the area to always follow the warnings and orders of authorities such as the evacuation inside the six-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone or PDZ. This is due to the danger of pyroclastic density currents, lava flows, rockfalls, and other volcanic hazards in Mayon Volcano,” he said.

But Phivolcs on Friday said it was

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Ocean near the equator, the weather pattern last occurred in 2018-19 and takes place every 2-7 years on average.

"Depending on its strength, El Nino can cause a range of impacts, such as increasing the risk of heavy rainfall and droughts in certain locations around the world," said NOAA climate scientist Michelle L'Heureux.

"Climate change can exacerbate or mitigate certain impacts related to El Nino. For example, El Nino could lead to new records for temperatures, particularly in areas that already experience aboveaverage temperatures during El Nino," she added.

In Memorandum Circular No. 22, dated June 7, 2023, and signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, President Marcos ordered the Water Resource Management Office (WRMO) and its network of agencies to execute water conservation measures to avert a water crisis in the next several months.

Mr. Marcos also directed all agencies, including government-owned or -controlled corporations and state universities and colleges, to "identify and implement specific quantifiable and

NAIA 3...

From A1 to all the passengers and stakeholders here at Terminal 3 today for the inconvenience because of this brief power interruption that affected the terminal,” said Manila International Airport Authority acting general manager Bryan Co.

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Extensive consultations with stakeholders under the principle of social dialog and tripartism resulted in the 2023 Rules and Regulations Governing the Recruitment and Deployment of Land-based Filipino Workers, balanced

said the employment rate in April 2023 stood at 95.5 percent, higher than 94.3 percent in April 2022 and 95.2 percent in January 2023.

“In terms of magnitude, the number of employed persons rose to 48.06 million in April 2023, from 45.63 million

raised from 1 to 2 on Monday.

Due to the danger of pyroclastic density currents, lava flows, rockfalls, and other volcanic hazards, the agency has recommended evacuation from the sixkilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ).

Increased vigilance against pyroclastic density currents, lahars, and sediment-laden streamflows along channels draining the edifice is also advised, it added.

Ash fall events may occur most likely on the south side of Mayon considering the current prevailing wind pattern. A thin layer of ash fall was detected in nearby areas.

The PDCs, Bacolcol said, were fastmoving and could reach up to hundreds of kilometers per hour. Phivolcs said in its June 9 morning bulletin there were 199 rockfall events recorded.

Bacolcol said several parameters were being monitored before the alert level status would be raised.

"For example, if sulfur dioxide emissions go up, because right now, it’s at 332 tons a day, which is even lower than the background level of 500 tons a day,” he said in Filipino.

Volcanic earthquakes are also taken into account.

“Yesterday, we recorded no volcanic earthquakes. Between June 5 and 8, there were only two. So those are the parameters we look at,” he said.

He reminded the public to avoid entering the six-kilometer radius permanent danger zone due to the possibility of rockfall and landslides or even a sudden eruption.

safe to visit scenic Albay province and Taal town in Batangas during the June 10 to 12 long weekend, despite the unrest of both Taal and Mayon volcanoes.

Phivolcs officer-in-charge Teresito

Bacolcol said the public should wear face masks if they decide to go to Taal due to the presence of volcanic smog, which has reached the towns of Laurel, Talisay, and Agoncillo in Batangas.

“It’s safe as long as we protect ourselves by wearing face masks,” Bacolcol said in Filipino. “We are used to wearing face masks because of the pandemic. So let us wear face masks to protect ourselves from the volcanic smog.”

attainable water conservation measures that will result in ten percent water volume reduction of their respective first quarter (January to March 2023) water consumption."

The President also instructed the Local Water Utilities Administration, National Water Resources Board, and the Metropolitan Water and Sewerage System to do the same. Private water service providers (WSPs) are enjoined to submit to the WRMO a monthly supply-demand projection to determine a possible deficit in water supply in the near future.

"National government-run WSPs are hereby directed, and local governmentrun WSPs are hereby encouraged, to immediately complete their projects to reduce non-revenue water and upgrade their distribution pipes," the President said.

"Local government units are encouraged to process the requests of WSPs for waterworks within a reasonable period of time," he added in the memorandum.

President Marcos also said the WRMO "shall identify strategies towards water conservation measures and provide quarterly updates to the Office of the President, through the Office of the Executive Secretary, on the progress thereof." (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Co said the brownout was caused by a power shortage traced to substation roadway 2. “As a background today, there was a scheduled electrical audit that was being done, by of course, MIAA and Mserv (a Meralco company). This is still part of our power services improvement because of the May 1 incident. So, today there was a testing that was being done at roadway

and simplified to adhere to day-to-day operations and concerns of OFWs, according to Ople.

“Because the rules are simpler, it is also clearer what each licensed recruitment agency must do and follow. There is no need to look for a sponsor inside or outside the department,” she said during the signing event.

“We aim for a rights-based approach

in the same period of 2022. The number of employed persons in April 2023 was also higher than the reported 47.35 million employed persons in January 2023,” Mapa said.

National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the government aims to sustain the recent improvements in the country's labor market by implementing crucial economic reforms and leveraging digital technology to enhance workers' employability.

"To ensure the continuation of this trend, the government affirms its commitment to the unimpeded implementation of economic liberalization reforms and other

Bacolcol said there are two possible events that may happen.

“This heightened rockfall activity at Mayon could be interpreted as the initial signs of a possible magmatic eruption, or it may also cease just like what happened in 2014 after rock fall events there was a minor lava flow, and then the activity ceased,” he said.

The first scenario is similar to the 2018 eruption wherein the rockfall activity progressed into magmatic eruptions.

If the alert level would be raised to 4, this “would mean there is an imminent hazardous eruption that is about to happen,” the Phivolcs chief said.

If it rains and Mayon emits sulfur dioxide in large quantities, acid rain may also occur, he said.

Meanwhile, Taal volcano, located about 50 kilometers south of Manila, has been releasing sulfur dioxide this week, blanketing surrounding areas in smog and prompting warnings for people to stay indoors.

Steam-rich plumes have been recorded rising two kilometers into the sky, the seismology agency said on Thursday. It has left the alert level at 1.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Bicol has activated different teams in response to the ongoing activities of Mayon Volcano.

Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office 5 (PRO5), said in an interview the PNP-Bicol ensures maximum deployment of all response teams to help residents in Mayon-affected towns.

"We already activated the Reactionary Standby Support Force (RSSF) and Search

People visiting Albay, on the other hand, must avoid the six-kilometer permanent danger zone around Mayon, Bacolcol said.

“It’s safe to go to Albay as long as they don’t enter the permanent danger zones,” he added.

The Phivolcs chief reminded the public that permanent danger zones could be expanded if the alert status of Mayon went up.

Meanwhile, Phivolcs said volcanic activity in Mt. Kanlaon in Negros may be pointing towards higher chances of a phreatic eruption.

The volcano has been under Alert Level 1 since 2020 due to an increase in

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“Let’s ignore any political noise that comes our way. Let’s remain focused on helping President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and our Speaker Martin Romualdez in keeping the economy on the high growth path by enhancing conditions that would attract investments and create job and income opportunities for our people,” Gonzales Jr. said.

The head of the Party-list Coalition also expressed confidence that the House under Speaker Romualdez will maintain its "remarkable synergy" with the Executive branch into the second regular session and for the rest of the 19th Congress.

"We were elected to uplift the lives of our constituents and so far, the House has followed President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s Agenda for Peace and Prosperity to a tee," Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, chair of the House Committee on Appropriations, said.

"The House members who are true to this cause won't let any political noise derail the remarkable synergy that the legislature and executive currently have," he added.

The record number of bills and resolutions passed by the House during the first regular session of the 19th Congress

1 substation and roadway 2 substation by Mserv and MIAA,” he said.

Co said the checking included the breakers, circuit breakers, cable tests bus bars, relays, current transformers, and the other cables of these systems.

“That started around 7:45 a.m. This was a planned check of the base power facilities, so we can note what we have to improve on or what we have to change as

and ease of doing business mindset to labor migration and migration governance. This new set of rights-based rules will ensure better protection and empowerment of our OFWs. Likewise, it will enable the industry to succeed and flourish,” the DMW chief added. She explained that the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) already has an existing rule on the

essential legislation. These efforts will be complemented by comprehensive collaboration among government entities and society as a whole to enhance the employability and productivity of our workforce," Balisacan said. He added that the government can capitalize on digital technologies to foster innovation, upgrade services, and effectively respond to the needs of the workforce. "Hence, the complete execution of the Philippine Digital Workforce Competitiveness Act is also vital for equipping the workforce with digital technology skills and fostering innovation," he said. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

and Rescue Teams who shall be first to be deployed. We also activated a Critical Incident Monitoring Action Team that will be used to monitor and generate situational reports on the current condition of Mayon Volcano as essential steps in ensuring the safety of the Albayanos," Calubaquib said.

She also said logistical capabilities such as trucks and other vehicles were readied for use during the evacuation.

The Department of Agriculture's Regional Field Office V, meanwhile, advised farmers to place their animals in safer areas.

The Presidential Communications Office said the regional office also local farmers to secure all their farm equipment and machinery.

The authorities are preparing an inventory of the livestock population inside the six-kilometer permanent danger zone, the PCO said.

The DA regional office has already positioned hauling trucks at Tabaco City and Camalig, Albay, and updated its seed reserves, the PCO added.

The vice mayor of Guinobatan, Albay said about 5,000 people were expected to be evacuated from their homes.

In a radio interview, Vice Mayor Anne Gemma Ongjoco said the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) advised all the people within a seven-kilometer radius around the volcano to move to safer areas.

Ongjoco warned that it would be dangerous for tourists to try to view the volcano erupting, particularly if the rain pours.

low-frequency volcanic earthquakes.

Based on its latest monitoring, Phivolcs has observed at least three volcanic earthquakes, with the volcano's edifice inflated. On Monday, Kanlaon also emitted over 1,000 tons of sulfur dioxide.

Phivolcs Chief Science Research Specialist Maria Antonia Bornas said that while magmatic eruptions are still more dangerous than phreatic eruptions, they can still be worrisome.

“The problem with phreatic eruptions is that many such eruptions occur without precursory signals. In recent years, phreatic eruptions have killed more than magmatic eruptions,” she said.

can be attributed to the “laser-focused” discipline of Romualdez in ensuring the passage of priority legislation, Camiguin Rep. Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo said.

This “very evident passion” lawmakers see in the House leader in his work ethic, Romualdo said, "is what they try to emulate," which is why the larger chamber was able to process a total of 9,600 measures -- 8,490 bills, 1,109 resolutions, and one petition.

“The only politics Speaker Romualdez engages in is the politics of completion, the accomplishment of the legislative goals the Marcos administration set, which he excellently executes by faithfully fulfilling his mandate both as an ordinary lawmaker and as a great leader of the House of Representatives,” he said.

Gonzales expressed confidence that the country “could do better than the World Bank forecast” for its GDP.

He said the first nine months of President Marcos in office “were a high growth period,” noting that the economy grew by 7.6 percent and 7.2 percent in the third and fourth quarters of 2022, and by 6.4 percent in the first quarter of this year.

“So barring calamitous man-made and natural events, we should be able to do six percent and even beat the World Bank forecast this year,” he said. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

part of the comprehensive electrical audit as mentioned previously,” he added.

Co explained the incident “was not a complete loss of power” for the airport because after 12:52 p.m., “our generators kicked in and as we were conducting all the checks so that we can reanalyze, of course there is a process so that we can get a first… the probable causes.”

But the power outage once again shows

hiring of both land-based and sea-based OFWs.

However, Ople said that when she was tasked by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to head the newly created department, she found the old rules difficult and complicated.

Following the directives issued by Marcos during his inaugural State of the Nation Address last year, Ople said that they immediately worked on the

Marcos looking toward stronger PH-China ties

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr on Friday said he looks forward to stronger Philippine-China ties as both nations celebrate the 48th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between them.

In a social media post, Mr. Marcos recalled the founding of the official diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China under his father, the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.

"I am proud to have been part in laying the groundwork as former First First Lady Imelda Marcos and I had the chance to interact with former Chinese Chairman Mao Zedong in 1974, paving the way for my father’s historic visit to China in 1975," he said.

"This momentous occasion 48 years ago served to further deepen our already strong and enduring people-to-people linkages."

The President said his meeting with President Xi Jinping earlier was filled with "a spirit of mutual cooperation and mutual respect".

"As we turn our gaze towards the future, I look forward to the continued strengthening of Philippines-China bilateral relations, especially in the important cooperation areas: tourism, agriculture, trade and investment, and infrastructure," he said. Vince Lopez

Bulacan grad tops April special nurses’ exam

CZARINA Gerard Soriano Gomez, a graduate of Dr. Yanga's Colleges Inc. in Bocaue, Bulacan, has topped the April 2023 Philippine Nurses Special Professional Licensure Examination, the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) said Friday.

Gomez became topnotcher with a percentage rating of 86.00, leading 1,917 other passers from across the globe.

The new nurses successfully hurdled the exams administered in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, United Arab Emirates; al Ahmadi, Kuwait; Al-Khobar, Jeddah and Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Doha, Qatar; Manama, Bahrain; and Singapore last April.

Second was Louie Liza Lee Licsi of the University of Perpetual Help SystemLaguna with a score of 85.40%, while Christian Jay Torres Crisostomo of Metropolitan Medical Center College of Arts, Science and Tech was third with 84.20%.

Next were Winston Buenavista Guevarra of Perpetual Help College of Manila, fourth, with 84%; Harlene Jane Poniente Fernandez of St. Dominic College of Asia, fifth, with 83.80%; and Janosky April Bantog Lego of Central Luzon College of Science and Tech-Olongapo, sixth, with 83.60%. Jimbo Gulle (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

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to road closures in connection with the anniversary celebrations at Luneta Park. Meanwhile, the three railway services in Metro Manila are offering free rides to passengers during selected hours on June 12.

The free rides at Light Rail Transit (LRT) 1 and 2 and Metro Rail Transit (MRT-3) are available from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The free ride is a yearly activity of the rail lines and the Department of Transportation in celebration of Independence Day. Meanwhile, the MMDA is also suspending the operation of the Pasig River Ferry Service (PRFS) on Monday. The Ferry service will return to normal operations on June 13.

The temporary road closures on June 12 will be implemented from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. along Roxas Boulevard from TM Kalaw to P. Burgos, TM Kalaw- from Taft to Roxas Blvd, Maria Orosa St. from TM Kalaw to P. Burgos, including Katigbak Drive, Independence Road, and South Road for the flag raising and wreath laying ceremony at the Rizal Monument and Civic-Military Parade to be held at the Quirino Grandstand. Joel E. Zurbano (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

the need for urgent power augmentation while a full electrical audit is ongoing, said Senate Public Service committee chairperson Sen. Grace Poe.

Regardless of the brownout’s duration, Poe said power outages at NAIA are enough to cause a domino effect of flight delays, passenger confusion, and reduced business. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

simplification of the rules.

“We clarified it because even when I sat down to read the land-based rule, what I noticed was, first I couldn't finish it because it made me sleepy. Secondly, I didn't understand it so I had to go back to it several times. Thirdly, I couldn't remember anything even though I’ve read it several times,” she said. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

IN BRIEF

ENDLESS QUEST FOR LAND OF THEIR OWN.

GCG

marks 12th year with call for integrity

THE Governance Commission for Government-Owned or -Controlled Corporations (GCG) unveiled its mantra and vision for government-owned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs).

“Pursuant to our mandate, the theme for this year’s celebration is to Aim G.R.E.A.T.” where “G.R.E.A.T stands for: Good governance, Rightsizing, Efficiency, Accountability, and Transparency,” said GCG chairman Justice Alex L. Quiroz (ret.) during the agency’s 12th–anniversary celebration at the Philippine International Convention Center.

Highlighting the initiatives that resonate to the needs of GCG stakeholders, the GCG administration introduced open-door policy, establishment of AntiCorruption and Integrity Program, and the upgrading of the current Integrated Corporate Reporting System (ICRS).

Meanwhile, in a video message, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. challenged the GCG officials and personnel to “take this time to understand and appreciate once again the significance of your mandate and your office”.

PhilHealth now covers cervical cancer tests

ACTING PhilHealth president and chief executive officer Emmanuel Ledesma, Jr. said the agency provides coverage for cervical cancer screening through the Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama (Konsulta) primary care package and cervical cancer treatment through the Z Benefits.

“We are glad that your PhilHealth has been able to extend medical care benefits to those women suffering from this dreaded disease, Ledesma said.

Indeed, the state health insurer is always looking into the welfare of its members and always doing its best to provide financial risk protection whenever and wherever Filipinos need quality health care,” he added.

In response to their call to expand coverage of the Z benefits package for cervical cancer and even include HPV Screening in the soon-to-be introduced Konsulta Plus Package, Ledesma said they are determined to further enhance benefits package to provide responsive coverage for our members and their dependents needing treatment. Macon Ramos-Araneta

DFA extols Canadian

agri office in Manila

FOREIGN Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo believes that the establishment of Canada’s regional agriculture office in the Philippines for the Indo-Pacific will help the country achieve its food security and resiliency goals.

Manalo welcomed Canadian Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau’s announcement on the establishment of a regional agricultural office in Manila.

“As a regional base, the Manila office will play a significant role and serve as a staging point for enhancing technical cooperation and fostering increased trade of crucial agriculture and agri-food products between the Philippines and Canada,” Manalo said in a statement. Rey E. Requejo

A policeman tries to stop a farmers’ march toward Mendiola near Malacañang to dramatize their decades-old demand to own the lands they till. The protest action was held in conjunction with the 35th year of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program on June 9, 2023. Norman Cruz

Solons seek study on fertilizers use

By Maricel Cruz

AGROUP of legislators on Friday asked their colleagues in the House of Representatives to look into the effect on palay harvest and farmers’ income of the over fourdecade heavy dependence by tillers on imported synthetic or petroleum-based fertilizers.

The group led by Camarines Sur Rep.

Luis Raymund Villafuerte raised the call amid a fresh government push for balanced fertilization or the combined use of both chemical and organic fertilizers.

Villafuerte was the principal pro -

ponent of House Resolution (HR) 972 urging the House Committee on Agriculture to study “the effectiveness of the use of chemical fertilizers in rice production.”

“To support, through meaningful leg-

islation, the direction set by President Marcos on finding alternatives to boost palay productivity, there is a need to answer: (1) whether or not chemical fertilizers like urea really cost cheaper than, if not just the same, as biofertilizers, and (2) whether or not organic inputs or biofertilizers are still untested or have been proven to significantly boost crop yields,” the authors of HR 972 said.

Other proponents of the measure were Sta. Rosa City Rep. Dan Fernandez, Bataan Rep. Albert Raymond Garcia, and Bicol Saro Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan.

They recalled that the Department

Russian envoy eyes broader relations between Manila and Moscow

By Rey E. Requejo

RUSSIAN Ambassador to the Philip -

pines Marat Pavlov on Friday said his country believes there are many areas of cooperation with Manila which they consider a “significant partner” in the observance of Russia Day.

Pavlov said Moscow and Manila

“have achieved a lot,” but the potential of the two countries “is far from being exhausted.”

One of the possible areas of cooperation for the two countries is food and energy security, he said.

The envoy said it can be attained “by supplying of such vital commodities as fertilizers and energy resources.”

Moscow and Manila can also partner on “peaceful nuclear,” which Pavlov said has already gained “a lot of attention in the Philippines lately.”

“Besides, there is a potential of a broader cooperation in terms of manufacturing and agriculture, communication and technology, culture and education,” the ambassador said in his

speech during the Russia Day celebration in Manila.

Pavlov also sought a direct flight between Moscow and Manila, which he said “would undoubtedly give a big boost to both business and touristic exchanges.”

Then: there is a “crucial field” in terms of inter-regional relations.

of Agriculture (DA) issued last April 27 Memorandum Order (MO) No. 32 covering the “Implementing Guidelines on the Distribution and Use of biofertilizers, which sets the guidelines on the distribution and use of biofertilizers for 2023.”

They noted that MO 32 apparently aims “to conquer high price of inputs and promote alternative inputs such as biofertilizers,” given that President Marcos announced at a recent DA sectoral meeting “his administration’s push for the use of biofertilizers by our farmers to cut their use of imported petroleum-based fertilizers.”

Imee wants real score on Afghan refugees in PH

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Imee Marcos seeks a Senate inquiry on the the “real intention” behind the United States’ request to grant some Afghans special immigrant status in the Philippines.

Marcos filed Thursday Resolution 651 calling for the inquiry on the issue even as she also called on newly appointed Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. and National Security Adviser Eduardo Año to shed light on Washington’s request.

She pointed out that nothing has been made public on the Afghans’ status; whether they are legitimate refugees or employees of the U.S. government or American companies.

Marcos, who chairs the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, asked why the U.S. government wanted to keep the Afghan refugees in the Philippines instead of the American mainland or other countries closer to Afghanistan.

The senator noted that during the past year, security and espionage threats have substantially increased because of the escalation of tensions between rival superpowers.

The Presidential Management Staff (PMS) held a “Technical Coordination Meeting” with other government agencies on Wednesday to take up the “proposed temporary housing in the Philippines of Special Immigrant Visa applicants from Afghanistan.”

PN vessel takes part in Indonesia’s Komodo drill

THE Philippine Navy’s (PN) offshore patrol vessel, BRP Andres Bonifacio, is heading back to Manila after participating in the Indonesian naval exercise dubbed “Komodo” which was being held yearly somewhere in the waters between the Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean.

Meanwhile, the Chinese naval

training ship Qi Jiguang will dock in Manila on June 14 for a “goodwill port visit.”

The Philippine warship was specifically tasked to conduct a simulated rescue operation during the closing stage of the Komodo.

“The event is composed of the multinational photo exercise, maritime inter-

diction operation, and search and rescue exercise, wherein BRP Andres Bonifacio was designated to recover and provide assistance to a simulated person in distress at sea,” Naval Task Group 80.5 public affairs office chief Lt. Jonathan Carretas said in a statement..

These year’s drill was held in the waters of Makassar, Indonesia.

Villar wants women to be digital savvy to land jobs

SENATOR Cynthia Villar has urged women to immerse in digital technology, saying about 90 percent of jobs will require digital skills by 2025.

“As women, let us support and uplift one another, ensuring that no woman is left behind in this journey of digital transformation” Villar said during the

18th annual general assembly of the Philippine Federation of Local Councils of Women (PFLCW) held at the Heritage Hotel in Pasay City on June 8.

Villar noted that globally, only about 24 percent of women enroll in information and communication technology (ICT) courses, resulting in a shortage

of skilled workers.

“In the Philippines, it is slightly higher at 30-40 percent, but still insufficient. This means we are missing out on the potential contributions of more than half of our population in the development of a strong digital economy,” she said. Macon Ramos-Araneta

PAINTED WITH BLOOD. Binibining Pilipinas International 2022 Nicole Borromeo views the mix medium artwork of Niccolo Cosme done on canvass and painted with HIV+blood emulsified. The exhibit dubbed “Tanggulan” now ongoing at the Gateway Gallery Studio in Araneta City, Cubao Quezon City, was meant to “pay homage to our forefathers who fought for Philippine freedom, and depicts the fight for the rights of people living with HIV.” Danny Pata

FINISHING TOUCHES.

A person deprived of liberty (PDL) gives the finishing touches to his artwork which will be for sale to help the PDL’s family.

The painting is included in an exhibit at the minimum security compound inside New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City.

Jay Morales

IN BRIEF

DENR taps Isla Lipana for bureau systems review

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) partnered with Isla Lipana & Co./ PwC Philippines to review the systems and processes at the Mines and Geosciences Bureau and the Environmental Management Bureau.

The partnership was formalized through the signing of a memorandum of understanding between DENR Secretary Antonia Loyzaga, and Alex Cabrera, chairman emeritus of Isla Lipana & Co. PwC Philippines is a professional services firm engaged in delivering audit and assurance, and tax and advisory services within and outside the Philippines. Rio N.

Araja

Subic port assures full cooperation with SBMA

THE Port of Subic has assured it will collaborate with other government agencies and stakeholders in line with the reform initiatives of Customs Commissioner Bien Rubio and President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.

SC’s Morales to law grads: Fight injustice

By Rey E. Requejo

SUPREME Court (SC) Justice Jose

Midas Marquez has exhorted the country’s law graduates, many of whom are expected to take the Bar examinations in September to be fullfledged lawyers, “to maintain your indignation at injustice and your anger at corruption.”

“When you see wrong being done, don’t be afraid to speak out. In this world, justice and fairness are never guaranteed. It is our collective actions, our struggle against injustice, which bend the moral arc of the universe towards justice,” Marquez said in his speech during the graduation ceremony on Thursday for law graduates at the Jose Maria College Foundation, Inc. (JMCFI) in Davao City.

Marquez reminded the soon-to-be lawyers and all lawyers in the country: “Keep in mind that lawyers are meant to solve problems for others, not to create them.”

“Lawyers are not often told to be kind, but I believe that when faced with a choice, one should always err on the side of kindness and compassion,” he stressed.

He encouraged the law graduates that “consistently choosing compassion, kindness, and respect for others will set you on the right path: the path towards slowly but surely building a legacy of which you can be proud.”

The SC magistrate then told the graduates that the SC has been in the “period of rapid and extensive change” due to information and communications technology that brings about the operation of hybrid digital courtrooms, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, case management, e-filing, smart buildings, and sustainable energies.

DOH: Dengue cases reach over 48k from Jan. to May

THE Department of Health (DOH) reported that dengue infections in the country reached 48,109 from January 1 to May 13, 2023.

According to the DOH, the latest figure is 38% higher compared to 34,963 infections recorded in the same period last year.

The health department further said that based on its surveillance report, most dengue cases were reported from Metro Manila (6,395), Calabarzon (5,135), Davao Region (4,842), Central Luzon (4,722), and Northern Mindanao (4,278).

So far, some 176 dengue-related

deaths or a 0.37% case fatality rate was reported, the DOH said. The DOH said for the same period in 2022, there were 203 deaths due to the mosquito-borne disease or a CFR of 0.58 percent. The health also reminded the public to follow dengue protection advisories.

The dengue virus is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes aegypti mosquito, according to the

World Health Organization.

While most dengue cases are asymptomatic or show mild symptoms, it can manifest as a severe, flu-like illness that affects infants, young children and adults, but seldom causes death, the WHO said.

Symptoms usually last for 2–7 days, after an incubation period of 4–10 days after the bite from an infected mosquito, it added.

State weather bureau PAGASA declared the onset of the rainy season last week, Dengue is among the top diseases prevalent during the wet season in the Philippines.

INDEPENDENCE

DAY PREP.

A man wearing a Katipunero outfit is seen fixing water containers with Philippine Flaginspired colors at SM Bacoor on Thursday in time for the celebration of the 125th Philippine Independence Day on Monday, June 12.

Norman Cruz

Herbosa eyes digitizing DOH to boost efficiency, serve rural sites

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

NEWLY-appointed Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teddy Herbosa said he plans to digitalize the country’s health department.

Herbosa said this is to make the DOH “very efficient” in delivering healthcare services to the people, especially those

in rural areas. He noted that digitizing the agency would help address issues of corruption linked to the department.

Earlier, the Commission on Audit (COA) flagged the DOH over P30 billion in unobligated and undisbursed COVID-19 funds. “I want to also digitize the financ-

ing, the disbursement, the spending and procurement of these billions of pesos of people’s tax money. I want them all to go healthcare,” he said.

DOH Usec. Eric Tayag, appointed as the DOH chief information officer, said they will “make sure that we digitize healthcare so it becomes accessible in the most remote areas of the public.”

BI, IACAT form new pact vs. trafficking

By Vito Barcelo

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) and the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) formed a collaborative effort to fight the rising incidents of human trafficking in the country.

BI Commissioner Norman Tansinco who has long been vocal about the urgent need to combat the issue of human trafficking, has raised the concern over the alarming reports of trafficking in person, victimizing hundreds of Filipinos seeking jobs abroad.

“This problem is both severe and complex. Hence there is a need for collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies, non-governmental or-

ganizations, intelligence units, and the private sector,” he added.

The efforts align with the recent Notice issued by INTERPOL, highlighting the escalating threat posed by large-scale human trafficking, where victims are duped into committing crimes within pseudo-call centers.

As early as last year, Philippine immigration authorities have closely monitored this modus, which INTERPOL said has transformed from a regional crime phenomenon to a global threat.

Victims are usually enticed through job advertisements online, only to find themselves trapped in online scam centers where they are forced to engage in criminal activities.

Tayag said once the issues on DOH’s finances and healthcare workers’ exodus are addressed, he hopes President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will give the agency a bigger budget for next year.

For 2023, the Senate approved the proposed more than P320-billion budget for the DOH, its attached agencies, and specialty hospitals across the nation.

NUCLEAR POWER PLANT TOUR.

Pangasinan Rep. Mark Cojuangco (center, in white), an ardent advocate of nuclear energy, leads the site tour of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant in Morong, Bataan on June 3 together with Gayle Certeza, convenor of  Alpas Pinas, a nonprofit organization that advocates the use of nuclear energy; officials of the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute; and members of the media. Joseph Muego

On Thursday, Port District Collector Carmelita Talusan met with Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Administrator Jonathan Tan to discuss initiatives and enhance collaboration.

During the meeting, the two officials demonstrated their commitment in promoting a conducive business environment, enhancing trade facilitation, and ensuring efficient customs processes within the Port of Subic. They engaged in constructive dialogue, addressing various aspects of customs operations and border protection.

Joel E. Zurbano

QC LGU talk show cited with broadcasting award

THE Quezon City government’s regular, bi-monthly online talk show, Usapang QC (or “Let’s Talk, QC!”) has received the prestigious Excellence Award at the inaugural Asia Pacific Broadcasting+ Awards 2023 held in Singapore last June 8. Usapang QC, which runs every other Friday and livestreamed via the official Facebook page of the city government, showcases not only the initiatives of the local government but the experiences of residents who have benefitted from the city’s diverse programs and projects as well. Questions and comments from online viewers and barangay leaders are given due importance during the show. Rio

N. Araja

Power firms hold nuke plant tour for mediamen

By Butch Gunio

POWER plant companies GNPower Dinginin Ltd. Co. (GNPD) and GNPower Mariveles Energy Center Ltd. Co (GMEC) organized a power plant tour and invited members of the media to attend.

The companies said members of the media were introduced to the operations of the power plants.

The tour was participated by newsmen coming from Bataan and Zambales; as well as from media outlets DZRH, NET25, iOrbitNews, Punto Central Luzon, Central Luzon Herald, 88.7 FM Olongapo, KFive Zambales, and Radyo Bandera.

The members of the media outfits were escorted by representatives from GNPD and GMEC in touring the two plants. Prior to the tour, the journalists underwent safety orientations and wore the necessary gear.

Headaches of the chief gun regulator

By Nonnie Pelayo

WHEN then Col. Paul Kenneth Lucas assumed command as director of the National Police’s Firearms and Explosives Office in August last year – he eventually was promoted to one-star rank – two problems immediately confronted him: half a million guns with expired registration and about 400,000 gun owners who have expired licenses.

Technically, those weapons are “loose firearms” and should be collected, while the delinquent gun owners are liable for “illegal possession of firearms,” a criminal offense punishable by 40 years jail, depending on the number of their unlicensed guns.

Gun possession has always been a controversial issue in the Philippines and elsewhere.

Unlike in the United States where gun possession is guaranteed by the Second Amendment of its Constitution, there is no such guarantee in the Philippines.

As early as 1908, the Supreme Court, in the case of The Government of the Philippine Islands v Amechazurra44 ruled:

“x x x no private person is bound to keep arms. Whether he does or not is entirely optional with himself, but if, for his own convenience or pleasure, he desires to possess arms, he must do so upon such terms as the Government sees fit to impose, for the right to keep and bear arms is not secured to him by law.

By 1983, 11 years after the imposition of martial law, then President Ferdinand Marcos issued Presidential Decree 1866 that integrated all issuances on firearms, including Act 2711, into a single law and harsher penalties on illegal gun possession were imposed.

Fast forward, when actor Robin Padilla (now a senator) was convicted of illegal possession of firearms in the 1990s, his fellow actor Sen. Ramon Revilla filed a bill that lowered the penalty for the offense to cut short Padilla’s Muntinlupa sojourn.

A cooperative Congress passed the bill and then President Fidel V. Ramos (for whom Padilla campaigned during the 1992 presidential elections) signed it into law.

Thus, Padilla was released early and was later granted an absolute pardon, allowing him to run for the Senate in 2022.

When President Benigno Simeon Aquino III, a gun enthusiast and practical shooting afficionado, assumed office, gun ownership again took a plunge.

Aquino signed Republic Act 10591 on May 29, 2014, almost four years into his sixyear term.

This law changed the concept of gun ownership. From being “property” of the State, guns were now deemed the property of the owners, as they should be.

Previously, guns were licensed to individuals, now the person is the licensee and his guns must be registered. Just like having a driver’s license and a motor vehicle.

The National Police then issued the regulations on licensing and registration.

At the start of the law’s implementation, licenses now called “License to Own and Possess Firearms” or LTOPF were good for two years while gun registration was for four years.

Realizing the awkwardness of the situation, General Lucas said licenses and registration have been made coterminous.

To grease the palm, a law signed by then President Rodrigo Duterte allowed gun licenses and firearm registrations to be valid for up to 10 years.

Both are renewable as early as six months before expiration.

Air passengers should know their rights

FLIGHT cancellation and other hassles are becoming a regular affair among local airlines, especially on budget bookings.

To book a flight these days, a customer is given many options, including promo fares, but these often lack the usual customers’ privileges like rebooking without charge in case of no-shows, free meals, check-in baggage, etc.

Oftentimes, these become the subject of argument especially when the passenger is already at the airport and the airline suddenly decided to off-load some passengers because of over-booking, which should not happen in the first place.

A lady media personality recently posted on social media detailing how her friend’s flight was canceled a few hours before the original schedule. She was coming from Albay and going back to Manila and the airlines moved her flight to another date, not hours within the same day.

“To make things worse, you moved her to a flight which would take 5 hours for her to arrive in Manila (it has a stopover), whereas

The bottom line is passengers should not bear the brunt of suffering when airlines commit mistakes

her original nonstop flight was only 40 minutes,” she said in the post.

“Are you planning to pay for the inconvenience? Like accommodation or meals?”

She herself had a forgettable experience with the same airline when her flight from Tuguegarao to Manila “placed me on another flight two days away from my original date. We called your attention but you were of no help at all.”

The media official ended up taking a 14-hour bus to Manila to catch another appointment.

It is very important for passengers to read the “fine print,” which is often found in the terms and conditions of the airline’s offers and services when booking a flight so they

Bert Cacayan’s journey

WITH time, genuine friendship only grows stronger.

It’s a bond that never fades, even when you’re apart. You can pick up right where you left off, as if no time has passed at all.

Genuine friendship is a source of comfort and strength, providing a shoulder to lean on during difficult times and a partner to share joyous moments with during good times.

“The Government can impose upon him such terms as it pleases. If he is not satisfied with the terms imposed, he should decline to accept them, but, if for the purpose of securing possession of the arms he does agree to such conditions, he must fulfill them.”

With that ruling, the highest court said in the Philippines, gun ownership is a privilege, not a right.

Thus, the authority of the government to prescribe rules on gun possession.

Legal gun possession has taken a roller coaster ride.

When the Chief of Constabulary (now Chief, PNP) was lenient on gun ownership (like Major Gen. Ramon Montano), the number of licenses issued shot up; but when the Chief was opposed to an armed citizenry (Maj. Gen. Renato de Villa and Director General Panfilo Lacson are examples), the number of issued licenses crash-dived.

Gun owners grin and bear the ups and downs of policies and just plod on in “legalizing” their gun possession when “good times” come.

Under the old law, Act 2711 issued during the term of Governor General Francis Burton Harrison (1913-1921), all guns by “fiction of law” were owned by the State.

Thus, the possessor or licensee was merely “borrowing” the weapon from the government and the weapon could be confiscated anytime for any reason.

That old law also instituted various penalties on illegal gun possession.

To secure an LTOPF, an individual must take a drug test, pass a neuropsychiatric examination and have a National Police clearance (National Bureau of Investigation before the PNP established its own clearance system).

(Editor’s Note: A neuropsychological evaluation is a test to measure how well a person’s brain is working. The abilities tested include reading, language usage, attention, learning, processing speed, reasoning, remembering, problem-solving, mood and personality and more.)

The requirements have been reduced to three, a far cry from the five to eight requirements during the Aquino administration.

To assist gun owners, the National Police established a one-stop shop near the Epifanio de los Santos Avenue gate of Camp Crame in Quezon City.

Requirements are completed in half a day.

There is a spacious classroom type section where police personnel assist gun owners not familiar with the PNP FEO website that must be used when dealing with the agency.

Despite the leniency crafted under the law, more than 400,000 gun owners are still delinquent and their 500,000 or so guns are considered “loose firearms.”

(NP spent 10 years or so of his career as a newspaperman covering the Philippine Constabulary-Integrated National Police and later the Philippine National Police.

He was the first president of the PNP Press Corps.)

It’s a rare and precious gift that should be cherished and held close to the heart.

Ultimately, genuine friendship is a priceless treasure.

It’s a bond that should be nurtured and cared for, and for those who find it, the rewards are endless and the memories last a lifetime.

In the following chapters of the book So Much Goodness – Stories and Thoughts in My Life Journey, Bert Cacayan narrates the stories of friends in the past he met and consider heroes who graced his life and bestowed hope and inspiration through selfless sacrifice and good example. There is Fr. Marcel Loiselle who, together with companions, was lost in the sea in 1969, after leaving in a motorized boat from Davao. The story is about not losing hope even in the darkest moments of life.

Cacayan also tells stories about the remarkable people he encountered and the experiences working for Terre Des Hommes Germany, a non-governmental organization operating in South East Asia. These also enriched and made him to become a better person.

The author also recounts his encounters with other remarkable personages including the church people from the Missionaries of the Assumption. There is Fr. Gervais Turgeon, a professor in philosophy. A great philosophy professor who taught philosophy, not only as an academic pursuit but also as a way of life.

Then we have Francis Morales, dubbed as the revolutionary, who joined the resistance movement to seek justice and serve the poor.

Aside from stories about his career experiences, the book also narrates some parables that teach valuable lessons about life.

Fely Soledad devoted her life as an educator.

She was fun, dedicated, and a motivating factor to her students, including the author who was one of her students during his college years.

Ed Caharian was a fearless student leader, and a celebrated crisis manager in his seminary years. He too had a profound impact on the author’s life.

In other pieces, the author also eulogizes other friends.

A few chapters are devoted to his good relations and the good thoughts of his parents and family.

Aside from career or personal relations, the author also delves into other aspects of life such as his travels or business.

get to know their rights in case of irregular incidence.

While some restrictions are often found in promo tickets, even regular ticket holders found themselves victims of circumstances.

Know if the ticket is bookable, reroutable, refundable, the ticket’s expiry or validity, seats available, travel period, and other conditions.

Before the pandemic, passengers were considered not late or “no-show” if they arrived in the check-in area at least an hour before boarding or estimated time of departure.

A passenger who was considered “late” may be denied check-in, but he or she should be directed to a rebooking counter.

In many cases, a passenger has rights to compensation, which is not necessarily in monetary form but in other privileges like a free one-way ticket, accommodation, or meals, in case of off-loading or flight cancelation. Passengers may also refund the value of the fare, including taxes and surcharges, or rebook their tickets without surcharges if a flight is canceled even if it was not the fault of the airlines like in cases of typhoons or security reasons.

There are many other cases where the passengers’ rights should be at the fore.

The bottom line is passengers should not bear the brunt of suffering when airlines commit mistakes.

By dedicating our lives to serving others, we can make a positive impact on the world and contribute to a more compassionate and just society. The book is an essential read for anyone seeking to make a positive impact in the world. Whether you are a business leader, teacher, parent, or individual, the book offers valuable insights and inspiration for cultivating a heart full of goodness and becoming an inspiration to others.

The book So Much Goodness teaches that every one of us undergoes a unique set of struggles, yet if we continue on with goodness of heart, we can a mover for positive change in the life of a person or a community.

It says that we can draw goodness in every person we encounter in our everyday life.

The book is not an autobiography.

But as a whole, reading the book gives us a pretty good idea and impression of the author’s thoughts, feelings, sometimes inclinations, and oftentimes intentions about many things and situations in life.

As a whole, the book gives us more or less the impression of how edifying and rewarding life could be for one, like the author, who bravely plods along the sometimes rocky, at other times smooth paths of life, with the goodness of heart and best of intentions.

Living a life in service to others is also rooted in the concept of interconnectedness.

This philosophical idea holds that we are all interconnected and that our actions have a ripple effect on the world around us.

By living a life dedicated to serving others, we can make a positive impact on the world and contribute to the greater good.

Living a life in service to others is not always easy. It requires selflessness, sacrifice, and a willingness to put the needs of others before our own desires. But it is also one of the most rewarding and fulfilling ways to live.

I recommend this book to those who may want to positively influence others and on how to spread goodness through service and love.

On a personal note, Bert and before him Karl Gaspar (whose latest book I also reviewed in this column), as lay leaders of the Catholic Church in Mindanao, as executive directors of the Mindanao Sulo Pastoral Conference, were my North Stars in the 1980s.

The one thing I wanted to be in the 1980s was to be like them.

That did not happen as God had different plans for me, as it did for Brother Karl, now a Redemptorist confrere, and Bert who became active in international and regional sustainable development issues.

It is my hope I will still be able to engage with them in the future.

Surely, this younger Mindanaoan brother of theirs will learn from their accumulated wisdom.

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

Between exile and the Kremlin: Russian artists split by Ukraine

MOSCOW—After the Kremlin launched its offensive in Ukraine last year, Russian punk rocker Vladimir Kotlyarov left his country along with many other artists and cultural figures. The lead singer of the Pornofilmy band was part of a wave of Russians who left in protest at President Vladimir Putin’s military decision.

“It was disgusting for me to be in a society that practically did not react to the start of the war,” he told AFP.

Russia’s Ukraine campaign, which has dragged on for more than 15 months, has split Russian musicians.

While Kotlyarov and many others denounce the offensive from exile, other Russian artists chose to stay at home and ride the wave of nationalism, releasing patriotic hits.

Those who do not support the offensive but remain in Russia have either stayed silent or faced repression.

For Kotlyarov, the conclusion was clear.

“I understood that it would be very hard for me to live among such indifferent people,” he told AFP backstage before a concert in the Armenian capital Yerevan, a hub for Russian exiles.

The singer now lives in neighboring Georgia—another destination for those who have fled Russia.

He said the conflict plunged him into a “black hole”.

After several months of not being able to write anything, he finally put words on paper.

“Music is like therapy for me. Maybe for a part of our audience it is also a kind of therapy,” he said.

His band—which was already known for its lyrics scathing Russian authorities—has organized charity concerts to raise money for Ukrainian refugees. “If it helps people then we should keep doing it.”

Stay silent or leave Pornofilmy is not the only band in exile in the Caucasus speaking out against the Kremlin’s policies.

Posters for concerts of Russian artists denouncing the conflict—such as the group Nogu Svelo! and veteran rocker Boris Grebenshchikov—are all over Yerevan. These concerts give a sense of hope to the exiled Russians missing home.

At the Pornofilmy concert, 19-year-old

Several Russian singers who chose to stay in Russia and speak out—such as legendary rocker Yuri Shevchuk—have been fined and had their concerts canceled

Alexei Osin said listening to the band gave him “strength” and faith of one day returning home to “build a democratic Russia”.

On stage, Kotlyarov sang: “My Russia in prison. But, believe me, it will pass!” The crowd chanted back. “General Secretaries die but artists remain,” Kotlyarov told AFP smiling. “This is the Soviet proverb.”

Another exiled Russian fan, 35-year-old manager Olga Smirnova, praised the band for speaking out against Moscow’s offensive “uncompromisingly”.

“It is nice to see that crowds come to concerts in Yerevan when such bands cannot perform in Russia.”

Several Russian singers who chose to stay in Russia and speak out—such as legendary rocker Yuri Shevchuk—have been fined and had their concerts canceled.

While some of Russia’s cultural and artistic elite have left—including the country’s pop queen Alla Pugacheva—many have gone the other way, gathering crowds in praise of the Russian army.

‘Traitors of the motherland’

In Zelenograd outside Moscow, crowds flocked to see Shaman, a pop star who has risen to fame during the offensive, performing at a Kremlin-organised patriotic concert.

The video for his song “I am Russian”, released after Putin sent troops into Ukraine, has more than 35 million views on YouTube.

In the clip, the 31-year-old, whose real name is Yaroslav Dronov, sings “I am Russian. I am lucky” and “I am Russian, in spite of the world.”

The blonde singer wears a wooden cross around his neck.

Shaman even performed the national anthem next to the Russian leader on Red Square in a ceremony celebrating Moscow seizing east Ukrainian territories. He also sang for Russian troops in Mariupol, the Ukrainian port city taken by Moscow after a devastating battle last spring.

Shaman—like several other Russian artists who actively support the Kremlin’s Ukraine campaign—refused to be interviewed by AFP. At the Zelenograd concert, some of his pro-Putin fans—such as 23-year-old state company worker Yulia Shevchenko—were moved to tears.

“Despite the very difficult situation, such songs are very important and uplifting,” she told AFP. “This is what we need now to unite the country and the nation.”

Another fan, 41-year-old hairdresser Tatiana Morozova, said Shaman’s songs gave her hope for Moscow’s victory in Ukraine.

“We will win” she said of the Ukraine conflict.

She called those artists who left Russia since the offensive “traitors of the motherland.”

“I do not want them to come back.” AFP

Realizing the awkwardness of the situation, General Lucas said licenses and registration have been made coterminous

Genuine friendship is a rare and precious gift that should be cherished and held close to the heart

Trump indicted in probe on classified docs

WASHINGTONDonald Trump said Thursday he has been indicted over his handling of classified documents after leaving office, the US ex-president’s most serious legal threat yet as a firestorm of criminal investigations imperil his bid for a second White House term.

“The corrupt Biden Administration has informed my attorneys that I have been Indicted, seemingly over the Boxes Hoax,” Trump wrote on his Truth

NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING

Path Rules (TGP Rules).

The pertinent portions 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 DSM Rates pursuant to the TGP

Social platform as he broke the bombshell news of a historic moment for the United States: the first time a sitting or former commander-in-chief has ever faced federal charges. There was no immediate confirmation from the Justice Department regarding Trump’s assertion.

A Trump attorney, Jim Trusty, told

CNN his client has been indicted on seven charges including the willful retention of documents in violation of the Espionage Act, making false statements, obstruction of justice and a count of conspiracy. Though the precise details of the charges were not immediately clear, people familiar with the matter told The New York Times the conspiracy charge was related to obstruction of justice. In his post, Trump, who is running for president again, said he has been summoned to a federal courthouse in Miami next Tuesday -- the day before his 77th birthday.

“I never thought it possible that such a thing could happen to a former President of the United States,” he wrote. His announcement came a day after US media said federal prosecutors had informed the former president’s lawyers that he is the target of the probe into his handling of classified documents.

He was already the first former or sitting president to be charged with a crime -- in his case over election-eve hush money payments to a porn star who said she had an affair with him. That indictment was handed down by Manhattan’s district attorney in March. In a statement after his initial online posts, the Trump campaign lashed out at what it called an “unprecedented abuse of power,” and called for the indictment to be thrown out. AFP

2013-093 RC is still pending with 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

at Barangay San Pablo Ormoc City, 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.

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

RARING TO JUMP. This photo taken on June 8 shows Japanese opposition lawmaker Taro Yamamoto (top left) trying to jump toward committee chairman Hisatake Sugi (seated center left) as ruling coalition lawmakers push a controversial immigration bill to a vote, during an Upper House Judicial Affairs Committee meeting in Tokyo. Japan on June 9 enacted the immigration law that the government says will improve conditions for asylum seekers but also allows it to deport those whose applications fail repeatedly. AFP

IN BRIEF

Four children wounded in knife attack near lake in French Alps

ANNECY, France—A Syrian refugee armed with a knife stabbed four preschool children and injured two adults by a lake in the French Alps on Thursday in an attack whose motive remains unclear.

The youngest victim in the quiet town of Annecy was just 22 months old and investigators are trying to understand the reasons for the frenzied rampage in a sunny public park at around 9:45 am (0745 GMT).

The attacker, dressed in black and carrying a blade around 10 centimeters (four inches) long, could be heard shouting “in the name of Jesus Christ” on a video taken by a bystander and seen by AFP.

“There’s no obvious terrorist motive,” local prosecutor Line Bonnet-Mathis told reporters in the lakeside town near the Swiss city of Geneva.

She said an investigation for attempted murder had been opened and that the suspect, named as Abdalmasih H, was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne said the suspect was “not known by any intelligence service” and did not have “any history of psychiatric problems”. AFP

Indonesia Anak Krakatoa volcano erupts, spews huge ash column

JAKARTA—Indonesia’s Anak Krakatoa volcano erupted on Friday, belching a column of ash more than three kilometres into the sky, officials said.

The volcanic island emerged from the sea at the beginning of the last century from the crater formed after the 1883 eruption of Mount Krakatoa -- one of the deadliest and most destructive in history.

Anak Krakatoa, which means “Child of Krakatoa”, spewed thick ash over the strait that separates the islands of Java and Sumatra.

There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties after the eruption at 08:46 am (0146 GMT).

“The height of the eruption column was observed to be 3,000 metres (nearly 10,000 feet) above the summit,” Deny Mardiono, an official from the Krakatoa monitoring station, said in a press release.

“The ash column was observed to be grey to black with thick intensity to the southwest.”

He warned the public not to carry out activities within a fivekilometer (three-mile) radius of the volcano’s crater. AFP

Havana denies report of plans for Chinese spy base in Cuba

HAVANA—The Havana government on Thursday denied US news reports that it has reached a deal for China to set up a spying base in Cuba, just off American shores.

therein the case number of the instant Application. The Commission will send the access link/s to the aforementioned hearing platform within five (5) working days prior to the scheduled hearings.

Cuba’s deputy foreign minister said the reports by The Wall Street Journal and CNN were “mendacious and unfounded.” The White House called them inaccurate.

The reports said Beijing and Havana have entered into a secret agreement for a Chinese electronic eavesdropping facility to be set up on the Caribbean island that could monitor communications across the southeastern United States.

The region includes the US Southern and Central Command headquarters, both in Florida.

China will pay Cuba “several billion dollars” to be able to construct the facility, the Journal said, citing unnamed US officials.

But Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio, reading a statement to journalists, called the reports “totally mendacious and unfounded.”

He said Cuba rejects all foreign military presence in Latin America, “including the many US bases and troops.” AFP

Stock market falls; Globe defies downtrend

debt ceiling standoff.

TOP GAINERS

STOCKS fell for a second day after the Philippine Statistics Authority reported that both exports and imports registered year-on-year declines in April.

The PSE index, the 30-company bellwether of the Philippine Stock Exchange, shed 43 points, or 0.49 percent, to close at 6,507.15, as three of the six subsectors ended in the red.

The index representing all shares also lost 8 points, or 0.24 percent, to settle at 3,476.18 on a value turnover of P5.66

TOP LOSERS

MOST ACTIVE

SELF-DRIVING CARS.

Chevrolet Cruise autonomous vehicles sit parked in a staging area on June 8, 2023, in San Francisco, California. Autonomous vehicle companies Cruise and Waymo have been testing their vehicles throughout San Francisco, and residents are not happy with the problems that the cars are bringing to the city. The cars frequently stop in the middle of roads for no reason, have driven through police crime tape and most recently struck and killed a dog. AFP

billion. Gainers led losers, 92 to 80, while 52 issues were unchanged. Five of the 10 most active stocks ended in the green, led by Globe Telecom Inc. which climbed 3.78 percent to P1,785.00. Meanwhile, the peso gained 0.11 percent Friday to close at 56.05 against the US dollar from 56.11 Thursday.

Most Asian markets advanced Friday, fired by renewed optimism that the Federal Reserve will hold off lifting interest rates next week as fresh data indicated further tightening in the US labor market. Expectations the central bank will stand pat next week -- for the first time since starting its hiking cycle last year -have pushed equities higher for most of the month, helped by the end of the US

“The Fed is the price-setter here, the others are the price-takers, and we should not confuse the two,” Evercore ISI’s Krishna Guha said.

The Bank of Canada and the Reserve Bank of Australia “are raising rates in part because they think the Fed will hike once more and if they fail to match this they risk forex depreciation”.

Analysts said a pick-up in industrial stocks indicated a broadening of the rally while others said the United States could even avoid a recession, which many had feared would happen because of the surge in interest rates over the past year.

In Asian trade, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Tokyo, Seoul, Sydney, Taipei, Mumbai

China inflation stays low as growth sputters on weak demand

BEIJING, China—Chinese inflation

came in flat again in May, official figures showed Friday, as the country’s economy sputters owing to softening demand and falling exports, leading to calls for a rate cut and a bigger government stimulus.

The consumer price index (CPI) rose 0.2 percent on-year, from 0.1 percent in April, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), said.

The figure was in line with expectations of analysts polled by Bloomberg.

Beijing has kept interest rates low compared to other major economies, but the near-zero inflation highlights challenges faced by policymakers as they try to stimulate the economy.

Top economist and government adviser Liu Yuanchun on Thursday called for

regulators to cut borrowing costs further to ease the financing burden of small and medium-sized private businesses.

Private companies’ borrowing costs exceeded that of large state-owned enterprises, Liu said, according to Bloomberg News.

Large state-owned enterprises enjoyed loan rates lower than 1.8 percent but many private firms had to pay nearly nine percent, he said on the sidelines of the Lujiazui Forum in Shanghai.

“It’ll be better if the rate cut comes as a part of a package of support policies,” he said.

China’s six largest state-owned commercial banks cut interest rates for savers on Thursday to boost spending, according to announcements on their websites, after being asked by the cen-

tral bank.

The country’s producer price index (PPI)—which measures prices paid by wholesalers—dropped a bigger-thanexpected 4.6 percent in May, from a 3.6 percent decline in April, and the biggest drop since 2016.

PPI has fallen for eight consecutive months because of sluggish domestic demand and lower commodity costs.

Other economic data released recently also signal weakness in the world’s second-largest economy, despite the lifting of strict pandemic rules at the end of last year.

Exports sank in May for the first time since February, state media reported earlier in the week, breaking a two-month growth streak as a post-Covid rebound faded. AFP

Meta’s Zuckerberg shakes off Apple Vision Pro, pushes metaverse

and Jakarta were all in positive territory. But Singapore, Bangkok and Wellington dipped, while London, Paris and Frankfurt skidded in the morning.

Traders are now awaiting the release of the key US consumer price index next week, which comes ahead of the Fed policy decision, but with bets on a pause growing, observers said the July meeting was already in focus.

“Early days, but the June non-farm payrolls report is building to be a particularly interesting one—on the wages front in particular—given that money markets continue to price some 21 basis points of Fed tightening over the combined June and July (policy) meetings,” said National Australia Bank’s Ray Attrill. With AFP

US, UK announce new partnership in face of China

WASHINGTON, USA—The US and British leaders on Thursday announced a new economic partnership that will boost industry ties on defense and renewable energy in the face of growing competition from China.

On a White House visit, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak adopted an “Atlantic Declaration” with President Joe Biden, who has dashed UK hopes for a wider free trade agreement between post-Brexit Britain and the world’s largest economy.

“We face new challenges to international stability—from authoritarian states such as Russia and the People’s Republic of China (PRC); disruptive technologies; non-state actors; and transnational challenges like climate change,” the declaration says.

The document raises one key concern raised by US allies with Biden —his Inflation Reduction Act, which massively expands US commitment to green energy, hoping for the United States to take the lead over China, by promoting domestic industry.

Under the agreement with Sunak, the two countries will launch “immediate” negotiations on the US treatment of critical minerals that are used in electric batteries in Britain.

Biden also agreed to ask Congress to designate Britain as a domestic source for defense procurement, to speed up development of next-generation weapons such as hypersonic missiles.

“The UK and US have always pushed the boundaries of what two countries can achieve together,” Sunak said in a statement.

“So it’s natural that when faced with the greatest transformation in our economies since the industrial revolution, we would look to each other to build a stronger economic future together.” AFP

SAN FRANCISCO, USA—Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg on Thursday told employees that while Apple’s mixed reality gear may be nice, it is not his vision of the future, according to US media reports.

Zuckerberg’s comments came during the first all-hands gathering at its Silicon Valley campus since the pandemic, and just days after Apple unveiled Vision Pro mixed reality headsets.

“I mean, that could be the vision of the future of computing, but like, it’s not the one that I want,” Zuckerberg reportedly said while assessing what he has seen of Apple Vision Pro.

“There’s a real philosophical difference in terms of how we’re approaching this.”

Meta makes Quest virtual reality headsets and has invested heavily in Zuckerberg’s belief that internet life will one day play out in virtual worlds referred to as the metaverse.

“Our vision for the metaverse and presence is fundamentally social,” Zuckerberg said, according to a transcript of remarks posted by tech news website The Verge.

“By contrast, every demo that (Apple) showed was a person sitting on a couch by themself.”

Meta was so confident it could create the metaverse—an idea of a 3D immersive internet—that it changed its name from Facebook in 2021 and began funneling billions

into the project.

But the idea has been hampered by botched launches, dodgy graphics, no clear path to profitability, and a general feeling that few people know what it is.

Meta’s Reality Labs, the division helming its metaverse effort, has lost $4 billion so far and Zuckerberg has been increasingly talking up artificial intelligence rather than the metaverse.

Zuckerberg was quoted by CNBC as saying at the all-hands gathering that Meta planned to build generative artificial intelligence into “every single one” of its products.

Apple this week unveiled a sleek Vision Pro “spatial reality display” packed with technology and priced at $3,499.Vision Pro is to be available early next year. It allows users to communicate, work, watch movies, listen to music—and even choose whether to be immersed or to keep an eye on the outside world.

Meanwhile, a new-generation Quest 3 with improved performance and slimmed design will be available later this year at a starting price of $500.

Zuckerberg described the coming model as Meta’s “most powerful headset yet” and promised it would provide the best wireless way to experience mixed and virtual reality. AFP

facilities and ancillary services.

Final notice is hereby given to eligible and interested Private Sector Proponents (PSPs) to tender their notarized Expressions of Interest (EOIs) to Submit Comparative Proposals to Bataan Public-Private Partnership and Investment Center, 6th Floor, The Bunker, Capitol Compound, Balanga City on or before 5:00 in the afternoon of June 23,2023.

The EOI must and can only be submitted by the PSP that will apply for eligibility and will submit a comparative proposal, if eligible. It must state that the PSP has undertaken and completed a similar development project under a similar arrangement.

Further, the EOI must contain an undertaking by the PSP that the latter will: (a) adhere to the Ordinance, policies, pronouncements of and qualification criteria set by the PPPSC; (b) not seek and obtain a writ of injunction or prohibition or restraining order against the PPPSC, the Province and its officials to prevent or restrain the Competitive Challenge process, the award of the Project, and the carrying out the Project; and (c) not institute any criminal, civil and/or administrative cases against the officials of the PPPSC and the Province.

PSPs that will participate must acknowledge the right of the original proponent to match the best qualified proposal submitted in this Competitive Challenge, upon which the PPP Project shall still be awarded to the original proponent under the terms and conditions of the said best qualified proposal.

If no notarized EOI from a proper entity is received within the above-prescribed period, the Project will be awarded to the OP and Stage 3 of the Competitive Challenge process will be deemed terminated.

PSPs which have filed their EOIs may obtain the forms for pre-qualifications and eligibility, and submit the eligibility requirements on or before 5:00 PM, July 21, 2023. Tender documents shall be issued only to eligible private proponents upon payment of a non-refundable fee of Philippine Pesos: Fifty Thousand Pesos (Php 50,000.00) and must submit their comparative proposals on or before 5:00 PM, September 20, 2023. If no PSP qualifies as eligible and/or procures the tender documents and/or submits compliant comparative proposals, the Project will be awarded to the OP and Stage 3 of the Competitive Challenge process will be terminated.

The PPP-SC reserves the right to reject any and all application for qualification and eligibility found not in conformity with the aforesaid Ordinance, relevant issuances, and this Notice.

Photo taken in Los Angeles on Oct. 28, 2021 shows a person watching on a smartphone Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg unveils the META logo. Facebook changed its name to ‘Meta’ to represent a future beyond just its troubled social network. AFP

BUSINESS

By Julito G. Rada

THE inter-agency Development Budget Coordinating Committee on Friday kept the 2023 gross domestic product growth forecast at 6 percent to 7 percent on continued resilience of the economy despite headwinds from both domestic and external fronts.

The DBCC is composed of the heads of the Department of Finance, Department of Budget and Management and the National Economic and Development Authority.

Budget Secretary Amenah Panganda-

man, in a joint statement signed by the DBCC members, noted the 6.4-percent GDP growth in the first quarter, making the country one of the best-performing economies in the region. The growth was faster than those of Indonesia, Chi-

na and Vietnam.

“We have maintained our growth assumptions at 6 to 7 percent for 2023 and 6.5 to 8 percent for 2024 to 2028, taking into account both domestic and external risks. These projections have already taken into account the risks posed by El Nino and other natural disasters, global trade tensions, and value chain disruptions, among other factors,” Pangandaman said.

DBCC expressed confidence the country could withstand these risks and achieve upper-middle income status in the next two years through the implementation of near- and medium-term strategies, such as ensuring timely and adequate importation, providing pre-

emptive measures to address El Nino, strengthening biosecurity, enhancing agricultural productivity, and pushing for legislative reforms including the Livestock, Poultry, and Dairy Competitiveness and Development Act.

NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said he is confident of the economy’s continued resilience, as the robust domestic demand is the major source of growth.

“Our strategy is to strengthen it so it will not be affected much by external factors,” Balisacan said, adding the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals remained strong.

“Domestically, inflation is going

PH eyes upper-middle income status again IN BRIEF

down…The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is also taking a cue from the slowing inflation. All these factors convinced us to believe that the domestic economy will remain strong,” Balisacan said.

Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno cited the recent move by Fitch Ratings when it affirmed the Philippines’ “BBB” credit rating and upgraded its outlook from ‘negative’ to ‘stable’.

“BSP also cut the reserve requirements by 250 basis points. That means more loanable funds for consumers. The World Bank also upgraded its growth forecast for the Philippines this year to 6 percent from 5.6 percent… So there is a lot of good news,” Diokno said.

LandBank

welcomes Fitch’s upgrade of credit outlook

STATE-RUN Land Bank of the Philippines welcomed the recent upgrade on its outlook to stable by global credit watcher Fitch Ratings, saying it is a vote of confidence on its financial stability and resilience. Fitch, in report published on May 30, 2023, affirmed the bank’s long-term issuer default ratings at “BBB” or investment grade and government support rating at “bbb.” LandBank president and chief executive Lynette Ortiz said the improved outlook from Fitch was a welcome vote of confidence for its robust financial stability and resilience to withstand external and domestic economic headwinds.

“With solid state backing, we will intensify our support to the country’s priority programs and initiatives, towards expediting our complete resurgence from the global pandemic,” Ortiz said.

Fitch considered LandBank’s “strategic and growing policy roles, 100-percent state ownership as well as its systemic importance as the largest state-owned bank in the country, with market share of about 14 percent of system assets.” Julito G. Rada

ADB names new country director for Philippines

THE Asian Development Bank appointed Pavit Ramachandran as country director for the Philippines. He assumed office Friday.

Ramachandran will lead ADB operations in the Philippines, with an active portfolio of about $8.7 billion. He will manage ADB’s relationship with the government, private sector and development partners.

He will oversee the implementation of ADB’s country partnership strategy for the Philippines, which identified up to $4 billion worth of sovereign loans for 2023. These include transformative infrastructure projects such as the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project and the Bataan–Cavite Interlink Bridge Project, both among the government’s priority projects.

He will supervise the preparation of ADB’s CPS covering 2024–2029, which aims to advance and enhance ADB’s efforts to intensify climate action; improve climate smart connectivity through transport, digital technology, and energy; and invest in Filipinos’ welfare.

“ADB has a unique and enduring partnership with the Philippines, being its host country. I am excited to work on further solidifying this strong relationship with the government and supporting the country in finding innovative solutions to its development needs. My immediate priority is to ensure we deliver on our commitments to help the country address its poverty, climate change, and infrastructure development challenges,” said Ramachandran.

ALLHC strengthens Central Luzon foothold

AYALALAND Logistics Holdings Corp. strengthens its foothold in Central Luzon with Pampanga Technopark, envisioned to be a new growth center in the region.

The 270-hectare development is the first master-planned agro-industrial township in the region. The development will be home to manufacturing and logistics locators, a bagsakan or agricultural wholesale market and commercial-retail spaces for the township’s social and recreational activities.

With 270 hectares of gross land area, Pampanga Technopark will serve as a mixed-use development. Phases 1 and 2 are registered with the Board of Investments as domestic industrial zones, with phase 3 lined up next. Shopping, dining and recreational spaces are soon to rise in Pampanga Technopark, as the development is designed to bring lifestyle experience to the communities working and residing within or around the area. Pampanga Technopark is allotting 2,000 square meters of gross leasable area across over 30 retail spaces featuring homegrown Kapampangan restaurants, plus several retail and service merchants.

Lots are also available for commercial uses such as shops and outlets, medical centers, offices, co-working spaces, business hotels and more. There will also be a variety of quick service restaurants and a gas station for motorists.

ALGAE CONTROL EQUIPMENT. West zone concessionaire Maynilad Water Services Inc. is installing three new units of ultrasonic algae control equipment near the intake structure of the company’s Putatan Water Treatment Plant in Laguna Lake to help monitor algal blooms and prevent algae proliferation that could affect the lake’s raw water quality. Costing around P9 million, the three units of solar-powered equipment are designed to eliminate algae within a 500-meter radius and provide real-time data on the quality parameters of the raw water that could indicate growth in algae concentrations. The equipment can also identify the types of algae present in the lake.

Meralco announces electricity rate hike of P0.41 per kWh

By Alena Mae S. Flores

MANILA Electric Co. announced a power rate increase of P0.4183 per kilowatt-hour in June on higher prices at the spot market and with the completion of the last refund.

Meralco said the overall rate for a typical household went up to P11.9112 per kWh this month from P11.4929 per kWh in May.

The adjustment is equivalent to an increase of around P84 in the monthly electricity bill of Meralco residential customers.

Meralco spokesperson Joe Zaldarriaga said the completion of distributionrelated refund of P0.8656 per kWh in May triggered the rate increase in June.

Meralco implemented four Distribution Rate True-Up adjustments from March 2021 to May 2023 totaling P48.3 billion which translated to about P1.8009-per-kWh refund for residential customers.

“These refunds benefitted Meralco’s customers over the past two years as these helped temper increases in electricity bills at a time of financial distress and uncertainty for many,” Meralco head of regulatory management office Jose Ronald Valles said. Zaldarriaga said the lower generation charge tempered the impact of the high spot market prices and the refund completion.

The generation charge went down

By Darwin G. Amojelar

GCASH said Friday it expanded its crossborder payment service to the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Italy.

The company said the cross-border payment service is part of the e-wallet’s strengthened collaboration and partnership with Alipay+ to offer a seamless and secure payment experience and real-time foreign exchange with no service fee, allowing customers to a hassle-free and rewarding travel experience abroad.

Among the key merchants and stores that can accept GCash via Alipay+ are Harrods, Liberty London and Harvey Nichols in the UK; Printemps in France; Müller and dm-drogerie markt in Germany; itTaxi and IVS Group, the leader in the vending machines market, in Italy.

by P0.4195 per kWh from P7.6697 per kWh in May to P7.2502 per kWh in June on lower costs from Meralco’s power supply agreements and independent power producers.

Charges from Meralco’s PSAs and IPPs decreased by P0.5871 per kWh and P0.5854 per kWh, respectively, on improved average plant dispatch and lower coal prices.

These mitigated the P2.0187-perkWh increase in Wholesale Electricity Spot Market charges due to tight supply conditions in Luzon.

Peak demand in May reached 12,431 MW, the highest on record. The grid was also placed on yellow and red alerts on May 8.

PSE INDEX CLOSING

Friday, June 9, 2023 -32.21 PTS.

6,507.15

F oreign e xchange r ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • FRIDAY, JUNE 9, 2023

Currency UnitUS DollarPeso

United States Dollar 1.00000056.1470

“In line with our fervent commitment to make our customers’ everyday lives better and more convenient, we want to make sure that they can maximize their GCash account not only locally but wherever they are across the world,” said GCash president and chief executive Martha Sazon.

“We look forward to expanding to other markets abroad soon and to partner with even more merchants in 2023,” she said.

GCash is continuously expanding its international payment touchpoints in partnership with Alipay+. Aside from the European destinations, the Philippine e-wallet can be used to pay in select merchants across Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia and Qatar.

It is also making its services available to more Filipinos worldwide as the GCash app can now be used with international numbers in the US, UK, Canada, Japan, Italy and Australia.

TRADE deficit fell in April from a year ago, on lower prices of global commodities, the Philippine Statistics Authority said Friday. Data showed the trade deficit, or the difference between the value of exports and imports, reached $4.53 billion in April, down from $5.1 billion in March and $5.32 billion a year ago.

Thailand Baht 0.0287071.6118

UAE Dirham0.27230915.2893

DIGITAL SOLUTIONS. Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. executive vice president and chief innovation and inclusion officer Lito Villanueva banners RCBC’s innovative digital financial solutions including RCBC Digital, DiskarTech, and ATM Go through the RCBC MoneyBela Barangayan Banking, a key financial inclusion program aligned with the Marcos administration’s agenda towards a digital economy.

MoneyBela Barangayan Banking boosted bank onboarding in rural areas by 210 percent reached 13,116 barangays or about 31 percent of the 42,000 total barangays nationwide, enabled millions of unbanked and underserved Filipinos to open their first basic deposit accounts and grew gross transaction volume by 103 percent.

EuroEuro 1.07850060.5545

Korea Won 0.0007720.0433

ChinaYuan0.1406077.8947

IndiaRupee0.0121210.6806

MalaysiaRinggit0.21659112.1609

New Zealand Dollar 0.60900034.1935

SEC warns public against investing in ‘unregistered’ Shopro International and Enjoy PH

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Securities and Exchange Commission on Friday warned the public against investing in Shopro International and Enjoy PH over their alleged unauthorized solicitation of investments.

It said in an advisory posted on its website Shopro and its representatives were luring the public to invest their hard-earned money in the company, which is “not engaged in any legitimate business that would produce legitimate income.”

The SEC said that based on its initial inquiry, Shopro promises investors a minimum 3-percent daily profit for a minimum investment of P1,100. This means an investment of P1,100 would give an investor a total amount of P1,980.

Aside from 3-percent daily profit, Shopro also promises investors an additional 10-percent direct referral business and quintuple bonus.

The SEC said Shopro is not registered with the commission and was noted issued any license to sell investment contracts to the public.

“In view of the foregoing, it appears that Shopro International is engaged in offering and issuance of unregistered securities in a fraudulent scheme in violation of Sections 8 and 26 of the Securities Regulation Code,” the SEC in an advisory. Meanwhile, the SEC said it also received information that Enjoy PH lures the public to invest in its marketing scheme through social media platform.

Based on its company Facebook account, SEC said Enjoy PH urges investors to subscribe in one of seven

VIP levels with subscription fee ranging from $100 to $10,000.

An investor can reportedly earn by completing the assigned daily task and by referring a friend.

The SEC said this scheme, called tasking and recharging scam, has the characteristics of a Ponzi scheme where the funds of new investors are used in paying “fake profits” to prior investors and is designed to mainly to favor its top recruiters.

The SEC said this scheme is “detrimental to subsequent members in case of scarcity of new investors.”

Exports tumbled to $4.9 billion in April from $6.14 billion a year earlier. It was also lower than $6.53 billion in March, which brought the four-month tally to $21.76 billion, down from $25.57 billion in the same period in 2022.

Imports declined to $9.43 billion in April from $11.46 billion a year earlier. Imports in the first four months also slid to $41.04 billion from $43.97 billion.

“The narrower trade deficit, [which is] also among the narrowest in more than a year, [was] due to the country’s lower import bill amid [the] recent decline in global oil [among 17-month lows or since December 2021] and other energy prices; also [due to] lower prices of other imported commodities such as wheat, industrial metals,” said Michael Ricafort, chief economist of Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Ricafort said the relatively weaker peso also made imports more expensive, partly weighing on demand for some imports.

“Still relatively higher prices/inflation and interest rates also partly weighed on demand for some imports,” he said.

The commodity group with the highest annual decline in the value of exports in April was electronic products, which decreased by $582.60 million. This was followed by other mineral products (- $190.19 million) and coconut oil (-$182.14 million).

Julito G. Rada

Trade deficit fell in April on lower exports, imports

GCash expands payment service to four countries

Roderick T. dela Cruz, Editor Alena Mae S. Flores, Assistant Editor business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com

Backside assault lifts Jaraula to 5-shot win

ANTIPOLO—Hounded by a throng of pursuers in a rousing frontside battle, Reymon Jaraula repelled them with a decisive birdie-eagle feat from No. 10 then lived through a wobbly finish to pound out a 71 and a fivestroke victory over Lloyd Go and Clyde Mondilla in the ICTSI Valley Golf Challenge here on Friday.

Mondilla did match Jaraula’s exploits on Nos. 10 and 11 to wrest solo second but failed to gain any stroke in the stretch with a spate of pars marred by a couple of late bogeys, his drive to end a long title drought hampered by a missed birdie putt from four feet on par-4 No. 9 of Valley South.

In contrast, Jaraula fueled his own bid with a big par-save on the same hole, punching a shot from the trees to the front of the green then chipping way past the sloping hole. But he returned a pressure-packed putt from six feet, drawing subdued applause from the gallery, that, however, was left in virtual shock as Mondilla blew his birdie try from close range.

Averting a possible 2-shot swing, Jaraula kept his overnight two-stroke lead intact over Alido while holding off the charges of Korean Chon Koo Kang, Japanese Ueda Atsushi, Jhonnel

Ababa, Go and Mondilla in a round that started in a shaft of sunlight, played through dark skies midway through before ending in sweltering conditions at mid-noon.

The Del Monte ace then pulled away by 5 with that big backside blast, coupled with Alido’s uncharacteristic doublebogeys on Nos. 12 and 13, that not even his miscues on Nos. 16 and 18 could derail his claim to a second Philippine Golf Tour crown.

“There was pressure from the start – I had a couple of mishits and bogeyed the first two holes. But I told myself to just relax and try to rebound at the back nine,” said Jaraula in Filipino.

“But I regained my confidence after saving par on No. 9 then made a birdieeagle start at the back,” added Jaraula, whose 10-under 278 total netted him P360,000, four years after hitting paydirt with a playoff victory over Tony Lascuña at Pueblo de Oro.

Go rallied with a 69 to tie Mondilla, who scrambled for a 72, at second at 283 and received P186,000 each while Aidric Chan took the low amateur honors with a day-best 66 as he fashioned out a strong joint fourth place finish with recent Villamor Philippine Masters winner Ababa, who also closed out with 72, at 284.

Clarkson, Sotto unlikely to join Gilas’ pre-World Cup tourneys

EXCEPT for Utah Jazz star

Jordan Clarkson and NBA prospect Kai Sotto, all the active players in the 21-member Gilas Pilipinas pool, are on call for a scheduled pre-World Cup pocket tournaments and tuneup matches for the nationals in Europe against the Estonian national team, Finland, Lithuania and Latvia.

Another mini-tourney in China is also being arranged for early August.

Clarkson, who is expected to join the team a few weeks before the Philippines hosts the FIBA World Cup starting on August 25, has one more year left in his contract with the Jazz and is reportedly looking to either negotiate a new deal or test the free market.

On the other hand, Sotto is eyeing a stint in the NBA Summer League in his continuing bid to make it to the league.

Meanwhile, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio on Thursday called on the Fil-

By Peter Atencio

ipino people to rally behind the Gilas Pilipinas National Pool as preparation for the FIBA Basketball World goes into overdrive, with the series of pocket tournaments and friendlies in Europe scheduled.

“We humbly seek the full support of our countrymen for our National Pool. They are about to begin the critical part of their training for the World Cup and they need everybody to fall behind them,” said

Panlilio, recently elected Second Vice President of the FIBA Asia Board.

“We’re praying for the good health and safety of all the players, coaches and everyone involved with Gilas Pilipinas,” he added. “This is our national team, and they are all committed to give their utmost best as they go up against the best players in the world.”

On the hosting side of the event, Panlilio assured that SBP and the FIBAWC Local Organizing Committee had left no stone unturned in making sure the country will be delivering the best World Cup ever, adding everything is right on schedule.

“With the help of the government and our friends in the public sector, SBP has put in place an elaborate network that works 24/7 to guarantee a World Cup built on organization, teamwork and our fellowmen’s innate hospitality and love for the game,” Panlilio said.

SBP, on Tuesday, announced the composition of the 21-man Gilas pool, which will reconvene this week to set into motion the final process leading up to the selection of the Final 12.

Clarkson and Southeast Asian Games sensation Justin Brownlee headline the Gilas pool made up of local and international pro league royalty, led by PBA MVPs June Mar Fajardo and Scottie Thompson and 7-foot-3 phenom Sotto.

Filipinas ramp up World Cup preparations

sportsmanship,” said Given in ‘Taglish’.

well-attended pre-departure sendoff at the New Zealand Official Residence in North Forbes Park in Makati.

finals, beating Myanmar, 2-0, for the gold medal.

A 29-MEMBER Philippine pool kicks off its 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup preparations into overdrive with a training camp, starting on June 10 in Sydney, Australia, with team skippers Hali Long and Inna Palacios expressing their desire to be part of the hardest training regimens that they could possibly have.

“We expect nothing less, because we know how much work we have to do and prepare for a level that we all want to be in,” said Palacios on Thursday when the New Zealand Embassy and the Australian Embassy came together to host a

Arriving late from one of their last practices in the Philippines, Long said they are around to play the game that they love and make everyone proud.

“Hopefully, we do justice to the game and make everyone proud,” said Long.

During the recent Southeast Asian Games in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, the Filipinas pulled off a 2-1 upset of defending champion Vietnam, a fellow World Cup qualifier, but they did not advance to the semifinal round of the women’s football tournament.

Vietnam eventually advanced to the

Coach Allen Stajcic, who is now in Sydney, believes that their experience in Vietnam, will only strengthen the girls’ resolve.

The send-off event saw Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Tim Given from the New Zealand Embassy, leading the celebration and encouraging the team members.

“Gusto ko sanang batiin at pasalamatan ang lahat ng manlalaro ng Team Filipinas. Success is the final point of hours of hard work, dedication, perseverance, and making it to the World Cup is an awesome achievement! It is a testament to the Filipino spirit, unity, and

PH pulls off best Para Games’ campaign

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia—Team Philippines closed out its campaign in the 12th ASEAN Para Games with 34 gold medals to surpass its 28-gold performance in Indonesia last year, thanks to Darry Bernardo, Cheyzer Crystal Mendoza and Sander Severino, who won two gold medals each at the Royal University on Thursday.

Bernardo, who is visually impaired, won the men’s individual B2-B3 and team with Arman Subaste and Menandro Redor.

Mendoza, a lawyer, ruled the women’s individual blitz PI and the team title,, with Cheryl Angot and Jean-Lee Nacita.

The wheelchair-bound Severino, a former world champion, topped the men’s individual and team with Felix Aguilera and Henry Lopez.

The James Infiesto-mentored chess team had a total of 13 golds, improving its 10-gold harvest last year.

The team also produced the top two most bemedalled athletes in the PH contingent, with Bernardo pocketing six golds and Mendoza contributing five.

Angel Mae Otom secured four gold medals for the swimming squad, which bagged 10 gold, nine silver and seven bronze medals to finish sixth, behind Thailand (34-29-33), Vietnam (2819-26), Indonesia (27-37-24), Malaysia (26-1210) and Singapore (11-10-8).

With its 34-gold, 33-silver and 50-bronze output, Team Philippines has duplicated its fifth-place finish in Surakarta, Indonesia.

“I am honored and overjoyed to congratulate our athletes for their remarkable performances and astounding achievements in the 12th ASEAN Para Games. These achievements have not only brought glory once again to the Philippines but also serve as inspirations and motivations to future generations of para-athletes,” said Philippine Sports Commission commissioner and Team Philippines chef-de-mission Walter Francis Torres on Friday.

“As we return home, remember that the results of these games will forever leave a mark on the sporting landscape of our country. You will continue to influence generations to overcome bound-

Philippine Football Federation’s National Women’s Training Director Isabella Fernando said the team has gone through two long years of preparation and is excited to see the players do their best.

“They are just gonna be doing their best to earn that spot and represent the flag as best as they can,” said Fernando.

The Filipinas will have their first game against the New Zealand Football Ferns in New Zealand on July 25 in Dunedin.

PFF president Mariano Araneta said he appreciated the encouragement they got from New Zealand and the Australian community in the Philippines.

CELINDA

Raagas and Darell Bada set out against a pack of bidders all primed for battle of power and speed as the youngsters take the spotlight ahead of the elite of endurance racing in the IRONKIDS Triathlon reeling off today (Saturday) in Subic Bay.

Raagas topped the 13-15 division of the last tri-race event at Vermosa Sports Hub in Imus, Cavite last October while fellow Olongapo native Bada placed second to absentee Peter del Rosario in their side of the duel in the premier division of the event long considered as the spawning ground of triathlon talents and which drew a cast of 178 from various age-group divisions.

The 13-15 age titles will be disputed over 250-m swim, 6-km bike and 2-km run distance with participants already winners in more ways than just emerging victorious from the event ushering in a weekend of racing to be highlighted by the Century Tuna full IRONMAN and Subic IRONMAN 70.3 tomorrow (Sunday).

But Raagas expects to face a stern test against the likes of Jaden Khongkun, Clarissa Saludes, Zabelle Eugenio, Princess Ilio, Thara Salazar, Jayda Gumaya, Chantelle Coleman, Chelsea Borja and Kyrene Benzon, while Bada will have his hands full against Red Reyes, Jacob Catambay, Sean Julian, Edcarl Moreno, Chadwick Baday and Nathan Ramos, among others.

Meanwhile, the 6-8 years old bracket will clash over the 100-m swim, 2-km bike and 1-km run distance, while the 9-10 crowns will be contested over the 150-m swim, 4-km bike and 1.5-km run stretch.

The 11-12 division is set over the 200-m, 4-km bike and 1.5-km span with Evan Ramos from Antipolo, Rizal and Noah Maliwat from Pasig City and Dominique Aragones and Sara Santiago headlining the rosters in the two sides.

Also on tap are two events in relay category, according to the organizing The IRONMAN Group/ Sunrise Events, Inc. It features the mixed team for 6-10 made up of the 100-m swim, 2-km bike and 1-km run race, and for 11-15 bracket set over 200-m swim, 4-km bike and 1.5-km run distance.

Riera U. Mallari, Editor Randy M. Caluag, Assistant Editor

Olongapo bets seek top honors

Reymon Jaraula displays his ICTSI Valley Golf Challenge trophy. Manny Marcelo

Sander Severino

JordN Clarkson and Kai Sotto

Celinda Raagas

aries and limitations. On behalf of the entire nation, Congratulations!!! I salute you all for your remarkable performances and outstanding representation of the Philippines in the 12th ASEAN Para Games. You make us proud!,” he added.

World-class CBD, lifestyle hub to rise in Mindanao Cebu Landmasters to pump P33b into Davao Global Township

By Jimbo Owen Gulle

CEBU Landmasters Inc. (CLI), the leading developer in the Visayas and Mindanao, followed up on the expansion plans announced at its recent Annual Stockholders Meeting in Cebu City by officially opening to the public the roads of its P33-billion Davao Global Township (DGT) on May 25.

Source of pride

Developed to become a source of pride for Davaoeños, DGT serves as the first township of CLI through YHEST Realty Development Corp., a joint venture between CLI and the Yuson, Huang, and Tan families belonging to the Villa-Abrille clan of Davao. The township broke ground in November 2018.

A 30-minute-drive away from the Francisco Bangoy International Airport, DGT creates a thriving global business district at the heart of Davao City. The idea is for the world-class township to serve as an address to be proud of, while generating business opportunities for Davao City and neighboring communities, CLI said in a statement.

“We are thrilled with the anticipated opening of DGT, which we envision as Davao’s central business district and lifestyle hub that will greatly contribute to the city’s economy,” said CLI chairman and CEO Jose Soberano III.

“Given DGT’s prime location and future-proof design and engineering principles, which include sustainability

‘GONE IN 60 SECONDS.’

All three towers of DGT’s first residential development The East Village at DGT were sold out in 4 days, prompting the opening of the 4th  tower (now also sold out). The last 2 towers will be open for sale within the year.  Scheduled for launching this year is the 11,472 sqm The West Village, the next vertical residential community of the township. and green features, we believe it will live up to its name as a world-class township,” he added.

CLI beefs up growth trajectory

CLI is expected to launch P29.75 billion worth of pipeline projects this year to further solidify its growth trajectory after a record-breaking performance in 2022, the company announced during its 2023 Annual Stockholders Meeting at Citadines Cebu City.

The company aims to expand to Luzon in the next two years through the affordable housing market, establish its foothold further in the hospitality segment, and double down on its sustainability initiatives.

Besides filling VisMin’s housing backlog

DB SCHENKER SIGNS WITH ALLHC. DB Schenker, a leader in global logistics solutions and supply chain management, recently signed an agreement with AyalaLand Logistics Holdings Corp. (ALLHC) to lease the latter’s ready-built facility in ALogis Calamba in Laguna. The logistics company is set to take up 18,000 sqm of space which will be used primarily for contract logistics servicing an automotive company. The space has already been turned over and is

by expanding to new areas, CLI is also establishing its

DGT Weekend Market offers unique finds, amazing food galore

Following the ceremony, local musical acts took the stage in a concert called “DGT Festival,” headlined by rock band UrbanDub and celebrity couple performers TJ Monterde and KZ Tandingan.

Aside from the DGT Festival, the township’s official opening also launched the DGT Weekend Market. Set to open four days a week—Thursdays to Sundays from 4pm to 1am—the upscale outdoor bazaar is set to delight Davaoeños with unique finds, amazing food, and other exciting offerings. Expected to become the new placeto-be that elevates the locals’ weekend experience, the DGT Weekend Market will be set up weekly at the first block of the township.

Best Township plums under DGT’s belt

Under phase 1 of DGT is the township’s first residential project, The East Village at DGT, set for completion in Q3 2026. Inspired by the rich culture and life in the progressive Davao City, the development presents over 2,000 residential units spread across the six-tower vertical village. Unit categories include modular studio, onebedroom and 2-bedroom cuts, with value ranging from P143,000 to P149,000 per square meter.

Even before the official opening of its roads, DGT has already won several top recognitions, including the 2021 Best Township Development in the Philippines by PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards and Best Township Development in Asia by PropertyGuru Asian Property Awards.

when deciding to leave the family home. Do allot an ample time to share and explain your big move to your family.

A way to make ‘the talk’ lighter is to assure them that you will still visit often and they, too, can come to your place anytime. For future residents of Sierra Valley Gardens, family time can mean taking a dip at the lap pool, playing basketball at the Multi-purpose court or game room, or simply catching up at the property’s cozy lounge area in the 3-level Clubhouse. Building a budget

An important ingredient in solo living is budgeting. This makes sure that homeowners are not spending more than they’re earning so they can stay on top of daily and monthly expenses.

In terms of monthly amortizations, Sierra Valley Gardens has flexible payment schemes so millennials can pay with ease. For the new fourth building, RLC Residences is also offering a 5% launch discount so future homeowners can buy their dream home.

Establishing eating habits

A benefit of living with the family is that eating is easier. It’s either they are served meals or ingredients are readily available. Moving out means crafting your own menu, learning recipes, and visiting the grocery to buy ingredients and other essentials. Located within a destination estate, Sierra Valley Gardens has easy access to the upcoming mall and to now open retail stores and restaurants within the area. Also, future residents will find living here comfortable given its direct access to Ortigas Ave. Extension should they need to go outside the estate.

close to each other. There is a need to emotionally prepare yourself, your parents, and siblings

For millennials thinking of making their smart move in the East with Sierra Valley Gardens, visit rlcresidences.com.

Manufacturers continue full support for PUV Modernization Program

Jetour Auto Philippines, Maybank merge for World Environment Day

JETOUR Auto Philippines and MAYBANK PHILIPPINES held a special event at the Synergy Center of the Maybank Corporate Center in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig, to commemorate World Environment Day last June 5th, 2023, as both brands take the initiative to raise awareness on electric vehicles to promote sustainability.

the vehicle’s design. The lights’ unique shape contributes to the Ice Cream EV’s overall cute and distinctive look, enhancing its visual appeal and making it stand out on the road.

The inclusion of a high-grade gaming chair in the Ice Cream EV emphasizes the importance of comfort during drives. These chairs are typically designed to provide ergonomic support and comfort,

THE Automotive Body Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (ABMAP) has expressed its full support for the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP). According to ABMAP Executive Director Von Carlo Deveza, the program is essential for the improvement of the transportation system in the country.

“ABMAP fully supports the PUVM program, as it is a vital step towards modernizing our transportation system,” said Mr. Deveza. “We believe that the program can bring significant benefits to both the transportation sector and the general public.”

promotes the organization of transport cooperatives as a way to improve the management and operation of public transportation.

jeepneys with modern and eco-friendly vehicles, the program can contribute to reducing carbon emissions and promoting a cleaner environment.

ABMAP’s support for the PUVM program, as emphasized by Mr. Deveza, is a step towards improving the country’s transportation system. With the increasing number of successful transport cooperatives already operating in the country, more operators are realizing the benefits of modernizing their vehicles. ABMAP believes that the PUVM program can provide significant benefits to both the transportation sector and the general public. By promoting sustainable transportation and boosting the local automotive industry, the program can contribute to the overall development of the country.

The collaboration between JETOUR Auto Philippines and Maybank was focused on encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and supporting an environmentally friendly lifestyle. One of the key initiatives of this sustainability partnership is the promotion of the JETOUR Ice Cream electric vehicles (EVs) with Maybank’s support in providing affordable options for EV ownership, the offer of a lowdown payment of 15% or a monthly amortization as low as PHP 7,339 making it easier for individuals to own an electric vehicle.

Miguelito Jose, Managing Director of JETOUR Auto Philippines said, “By working together on World Environment Day, as we move forward to transitioning from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to hybrids, to a visionary path towards full-electric vehicles. We are grateful to have found a like-minded partner in Maybank, sharing the same purpose and direction as we embark on this remarkable journey together by providing accessible financing options for the JETOUR ICE CREAM EV. We can make it effortless for new car owners to embrace electric mobility.”

The JETOUR Ice Cream EV is available in four colors named after ice cream flavors: Vanilla, Strawberry, Blueberry, and Matcha. The U-shaped smiling LED daytime running lights add a touch of charm and playfulness to

All-New CL500 is ideal choice for Filipino riders who want an everyday touring bike that’s stylish.

allowing occupants to relax and enjoy the journey. The use of high-grade materials ensures durability and longlasting comfort, enhancing the overall driving experience for a maximum of four people.

Equipped with a 20kWh E-motor that delivers a maximum speed output of >100 km/h and a peak torque of 85Nm.

The motor is powered by a lithium-ion battery with 13.9 kwH power capacity and 220V charging voltage that ranges to 170 km on a single charge; the Ice Cream EV offers ample distance coverage for typical daily commuting and short trips. This makes it ideal for running errands, going to the store, or visiting nearby malls without worrying about range anxiety. Some notable features of the vehicle include a reverse camera, a multiinfo display that also serves as an infotainment unit, steering-wheel controls for phones, audio functions, and eco and sport driving modes.

The collaboration between JETOUR Auto Philippines and Maybank Philippines on World Environment Day showcases a shared commitment to promoting environmentally friendly practices and supporting the adoption of electric vehicles in the local market. The joint initiatives aim to educate and inspire individuals to consider electric vehicles a viable and sustainable transportation option.

ABMAP, which represents the country’s automotive truck body manufacturing sector, recognizes the importance of the PUVMP and its potential to improve the quality of public transportation in the country. The program aims to replace the old and dilapidated jeepneys with safer, more comfortable, and ecofriendly vehicles. The program also

ABMAP believes that the PUVM program can boost the local automotive industry, particularly the body manufacturing sector. The program can provide more opportunities for local manufacturers to produce modern and innovative vehicle bodies that comply with international standards.

ABMAP also sees the PUVM program as an opportunity to promote sustainable transportation in the country. By replacing the old and inefficient

Clean energy tech to drive decarbonization in Malaysia

MITSUBISHI Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) and Malaysia’s largest power producer, TNB Power Generation Sdn. Bhd. (TNB Genco), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to study and exchange information related to clean energy technologies. The MoU will help drive the energy transition in Malaysia and support its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

Under the MoU, MHI with support from its power solutions brand, Mitsubishi Power, and TNB Genco will conduct studies that examine three key areas related to clean power generation. These include the hydrogen and ammonia value chain in relation to hydrogen production and supply, logistics, storage and related infrastructure; low carbon fuel co-combustion technology in thermal plants; and CO2 capture.

The partners will also mutually share experiences and information on the specified areas within the MoU. This could also include sharing experiences and technical know-how on advancing cleaner power generation in Malaysia.

Akihiro Ondo, Managing Director

‘Colorum’ vehicles: Heroes or villains?

WE received a call from a friend regarding our last column on the lack of mass transportation in the metropolis up to now.

and Chief Executive Officer, Mitsubishi Power Asia Pacific, added: “Mitsubishi Power has been actively involved in Malaysia’s power generation projects since the 1960s. We look forward to extending our support and strengthening partnership with TNB Genco to jointly explore capabilities around innovative energy technologies that help accelerate the country’s net zero emission goals. This MoU reaffirms our continued commitment to develop technologies that help our partners in Malaysia and across APAC deliver a sustainable future.”

The agreement extends the longstanding partnership between MHI, Mitsubishi Power and TNB Genco, stepping up efforts to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. This aspiration is underpinned by a commitment to reduce 35% of its emissions intensity as well as 50% of its coal generation capacity by 2035.

This MoU follows the Mitsubishi Power Malaysia Technical Seminar 2023 held in January 2023, which involved knowledge-sharing of strategic plans and innovative industry-leading power generation technologies and services to support Malaysia’s energy needs.

All-New Honda CL500: Scrambler-style

bike for modern Pinoy

optimize excellent riding facility and road followability, Classic Black Fork Cover, Dual Rear Shock Absorbers and a 14-Spokes Rim with SemiBlocked Tire Pattern pursuing to give the rider better security in On-Road and light Off-Road touring situations.

The aforementioned friend brought out the prevalence of “colorum” vehicles, which ferry passengers to and from remote locations outside of the city limits that are not serviced by the public transportation system. Some of these “colorum” vehicles are owned by similarly enterprising drivers who were able to make enough money to cover the down payment on their own vehicles, while the majority are operated by many enterprising businesses.

“When unsuspecting commuters use these “colorum” vehicles as a convenient and affordable means to get to work and make it back to their homes on schedule, how can you stop their proliferation?”, added my friend.

According to him, the majority of these “colorums” have been upgraded to big-time coaches like the spacious and incredibly comfortable Grandias, Urvans, and Starias. Yes, he claimed that the comfort and convenience of using these “colorum” vehicles simply outweigh the government transportation agency’s claim that they are “dangerous” to commuters because they are illegally operating, lack a license to serve as public transportation, and their respective commuters are not covered by insurance in the event of an accident.

Since the unfortunate commuters have no choice but to travel in these “colorum” vehicles in order to get to their separate offices and back home, we wholeheartedly concur with our friend’s viewpoint. Because of the inadequate public transportation system that has plagued numerous previous governments, they are without any other options.

By the way, significant news involving the Department of Justice’s legal position regarding the “colorum” vehicles that continue to operate around the metro and engage in cat-andmouse games with various law enforcement organizations has recently come to light.

This is crucial because the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), a government entity, has no business seizing, imprisoning, and destroying these “colorum” cars. In its legal opinion, released late last month, the DOJ declared unequivocally that “LTFRB has no competence to arrest, impound, and dispose of ‘colorum’ automobiles. Only in the coordination [and] cooperation with other government agencies in the seizure, impoundment, and destruction of such vehicles does it have any additional power.

IF YOU’RE a Big Bike enthusiast who’s in need of a ride that lets you efficiently tour the city in style then you’re in for a treat. Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI) recently released The All-New CL500, the latest in a long line of big bikes for people who live life on the On-Road and Light Off-Road Touring.

This new addition to the Honda family gives Filipino riders everywhere the chance to flex their style muscles without compromising performance with a reasonable unified suggested retail price of P409,000.00.

The Big Bike model is Honda’s latest interpretation of the classic street scrambler style that’s made with the modern rider in mind. Central to this street scrambler style, The All-New CL500 features High position Dual- Exit Exhaust with Stylish Heat Guard, an all-black diamond-structure steel frame for great handling ability and riding ease, low seat height, and Classic Round –Shaped Fuel Tank with rubber knee pads for comfort. Having a classic 41mm Telescopic Fork (Front) to

The All-New CL500 is outfitted with a 471cc Liquid-Cooled, 4-Stroke, Dual-Overhead Cam (DOHC), 4-Valve Parallel-Twin Cylinder with 6-Speed Manual Transmission capable of producing 33.8kW max power @8,500rpm, and 43.3Nm max torque @6,000rpm. It also comes with a highly responsive assist/slipper clutch and front and rear disc brakes with 2-channel ABS. These features give you maximum control making the bike an excellent choice even for novice riders.

What’s more, this bike includes Honda’s Emergency Stop Signal (ESS). A safety feature to avoid collision that’s engineered to flash the signal lights rapidly when sudden braking applies, making it, and you, more visible to other motorists. And with two (2) cool colors to choose from, namely, Matte Laurel Green Metallic and Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic, this big bike promises to always impress. When you consider the bike’s combination of retro-modern design, excellent performance parameters, and advanced safety features, you realize one thing is evident - that is The AllNew CL500 is the ideal choice for Filipino riders who want an everyday touring bike that’s stylish and functional whether cruising the city streets or enjoying a light off-road adventure.

Under Section 4(5) of Republic Act 4136, also known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, and Section 35(b)(8) of Republic Act 6975, also known as the Department of the Interior and Local Government Act of 1990, only the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Traffic Management Unit of the Philippine National Police (PNP) are permitted to enforce traffic rules and regulations, claims the DOJ.

According to the DOJ, “even without the power to enforce the provisions of EO No. 202, the LTFRB may still coordinate and cooperate with these government agencies to enforce the provision of the aforementioned issuance and other related laws

The problem began when two transportation cooperatives—the National Federation Transport Cooperative and Liga ng Transportasyon and Operators sa Pilipinas—visited the Department of Transportation in March 2022 to inquire about the authority of the LTFRB to pursue these “colorum” vehicles. The matter was sent to the DOJ for a legal assessment by the then-secretary, Art Tugade.

ROLLS OUT NEW MIDRANGE POWERHOUSES

Xiaomi expands Redmi Note 12 series in PH

XIAOMI has announced the arrival of new mid range devices with flagship features in the Philippines: the Redmi Note 12 Pro and Redmi Note 12S. These new smartphones add to the lineup of the popular fan-favorite devices, the Redmi Note 12 series.

Xiaomi showcased the new Redmi Note 12 Series smartphones at Craft Academy at Ayala Malls Manila Bay. Guests got to experience the colorful lineup of smartphones while immersing themselves in the vividness of the location. They also got to participate in fun sensory activities, like slime making and cupcake decorating, where they can show off their creativity and personality. This addition of the new smartphones to the Redmi Note 12 series once again brings valuable enhancements to the features that matter most to Xiaomi fans. With remarkable updates that are unique across each device, from camera system and battery life, to charging speed and user-friendly design, the Redmi Note 12 series offers all types of users a unique experience depending on their personal needs—once again showcasing their commitment to offer everyone with accessible technology at an affordable price. “We wanted Xiaomi fans to ‘Live Vivid’ with the Redmi Note 12 Series,

RED Note 12 series now includes the Redmi Note 12 Pro and Redmi Note 12S featuring agship IMX766 camera sensor with OIS, 67W turbo charging, up to 120Hz AMOLED display and more.

which suits the vibrant lifestyles of young people today. The new models expand their smartphone options, so they could find the right device that matches their personality and everyday needs,” said Tomi Adrias, Xiaomi Philippines’ Head of Marketing.

Affordable all-rounder with the Redmi Note 12 Pro Equipped with a 108MP main camera and an 8MP ultra-wide angle camera, Red-

mi Note 12 Pro features a large sensor size of 1/1.52’’-inch Samsung sensor. With the 9-in-1 pixel binning and a dual native ISO and a 2MP depth camera to create a natural bokeh effect for portrait shots.

For a first-class visual and audio experience, the Redmi Note 12 Pro comes with a large 6.67” FHD+ AMOLED DotDisplay with a 120Hz display refresh rate for smooth scrolling and lagfree transitions. It is also equipped with

KonsultaMD unites with AC Health’s Generika, Healthway to expand healthcare services

KONSULTAMD, the Globe Group’s innovative healthcare SuperApp, in partnership with AC Health, has joined forces with its sister entities, AC Health’s Generika Drugstore and Healthway Medical Network, to expand healthcare services for Filipinos nationwide.

The partnership was launched recently in an event at the Makati Stock Exchange, bringing together AC Health President and CEO Paolo Borromeo, Healthway Philippines President and CEO Jaime “Jimmy” Ysmael, Generika Drugstore President and CEO Atty. Yet Abarca, KonsultaMD CEO Cholo Tagaysay and KonsultaMD COO Beia Latay.

Through the integration of AC Health’s comprehensive ecosystem with KonsultaMD, patients now have the convenience of connecting with a wide network of medical professionals, hospitals, clinics, and an assortment of health services using online and offline platforms.

KonsultaMD members can now order medicines directly from Generika Drugstore and access the Healthway Medical Network’s comprehensive suite of in-clinic diagnostic services such as laboratory, imaging, and rehabilitation. The app will also soon feature a convenient hospital appointment booking feature.

Further enhancing its offerings, the newly launched KonsultaMD Online Pharmacy service powered by Healthway QualiMed Manila will ensure round-theclock medicine delivery service within Metro Manila.

“The launch of this partnership encapsulates the ecosystem and synergies that AC Health stands for. By linking Generika Drugstore and the Healthway Medi-

we enable more Filipinos to conveniently access healthcare through different touchpoints,” said AC Health President and CEO Paolo Borromeo.

The KonsultaMD SuperApp currently has over 1,000 doctors and medical professionals nationwide, covering over 60 specializations and speaking over 16 dialects. It offers a one-stop shop for all healthcare needs, including 24/7 teleconsultations, mental health support, online pharmacy delivery, at-home labs and diagnostics, and wellness services.

Cholo Tagaysay, CEO of KonsultaMD, expressed his enthusiasm for this synergy, saying: “Through this partnership with AC Health, we are able to further expand our reach and offer a more complete healthcare journey for our users, taking us a step further in our dream of democratizing healthcare in the Philippines.”

Established in 2015, AC Health is a

LEADING smart devices provider in the Philippines, HONOR, has unveiled the HONOR Magic5 Pro at P59,990.

This newest HONOR flagship is packed with human-centric innovations boasting impressive breakthroughs in design, display, photography, and performance, beating several industry benchmarks to deliver a best-in-class user experience.

“This is the moment we’ve all been waiting for! We have finally unleashed the power of HONOR Magic5 Pro! With its groundbreaking technology, it is no surprise that our latest flagship smartphone has disrupted the industry benchmarks. Experience the Real Magic and pre-order now,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

The Brand-new Star Wheel Aesthetics with Gaudi Curve

Adhering to the ‘Eye of Muse’ iconic design, the HONOR Magic5 Pro evolves the concept, redesigning and introducing the Star Wheel Triple Camera system. Paying tribute to Antoni Gaudi, the HONOR Magic5 Pro features symmetry dual-curved ultra-narrow bezels on both sides and a Star Wheel Triple Camera Design sitting as the centerpiece on the back cover, blending the beautiful curves found in natural landscapes and modern architecture into the design of the cutting-edge device, demonstrating the harmonious combination of art and technology.

wholly-owned subsidiary of the Ayala Corporation that aims to provide every Filipino accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare. Its portfolio includes Generika Drugstore, the pioneer in generic retail pharmacies, IE Medica and MedEthix, a major pharmaceutical importer and distributor, the Healthway Medical Network, a network of multi-specialty clinics, ambulatory centers, and full-service hospitals, and healthcare SuperApp KonsultaMD. Through its three pillars—pharma, hospitals and clinics, and digital health—AC Health creates a seamless and integrated healthcare ecosystem for the Filipino patient. KonsultaMD is a portfolio company of Globe’s 917Ventures and AC Health. As the largest telehealth company in the Philippines, KonsultaMD consistently strives to provide accessible and affordable healthcare for all via its end-to-end services, advocating for physical and mental health among Filipinos.

A Premium Display Debuts at Top of DXOMARK Rankings

Featuring a 6.81-inch LTPO Display with a unique Quad-Curved Floating Screen, the HONOR Magic5 Pro guarantees an immersive viewing experience whether users are browsing, gaming or reading. Equipped with a Novel Display Luminance Enhancement Technology, the HONOR Magic5 Series delivers peak HDR brightness of 1800 nits, ensuring clear visuals even under bright sunlight. With the Dual-Luminance Calibration for typical 120nits indoor brightness and 800nits outdoor brightness, the HONOR Magic5 Pro provides the industry-leading display color accuracy.

The HONOR Magic5 Pro also features a Discrete Display Chipset to improve the visual quality of moving images. While offering an always-on high dynamic range (HDR) effect to enhance video clarity, the chipset delivers a higher frame rate with lower power consumption for a smoother, longer gaming experience. Certified with HDR10+ and IMAX Enhanced, the HONOR Magic5 Pro enables users to enjoy videos and movies with optimized picture quality. Relieving users’ eye strain, the HONOR Magic5 Pro boasts low blue light emission, as certified by TÜV Rheinland, and Dynamic Dimming that simulates natural light to alleviate eye fatigue. Other innovative eye comfort features

Dolby Vision® and Dolby Atmos® spatial audio technology support for a superb audio experience.

Powered by Snapdragon® 732G and 67W turbocharging, Redmi Note 12 Pro has a large 5,000mAh battery which easily provides long- lastin g usage of social media activity, photography, video shooting and more, so users can go anywhere, do anything, and never miss a moment.

Redmi Note 12 Pro is available in four

colors—Star Blue, Glacier Blue, Polar White, and Graphite Gray.

Vibrant and quality audiovisual experience with Redmi Note 12S

Redmi Note 12S delivers a complete entertainment experience with immersive stereo sound for gaming or watching videos. With vibrant colors and clear contents even in bright daylight, thanks to its large 6.43” FHD + AMOLED DotDisplay with peak brightness of up to 1,000 nits. The device also features an up to 90Hz refresh rate and a touch sampling rate up to 180Hz for s ko mooth lag-free transitions.

Redmi Note 12S features a 5,000mAh large-capacity battery along with 33W fast charging, which offers efficient and longlasting battery performance. Powered by Octa-core MediaTek Helio G96 processor and up to 8GB of RAM, Redmi Note 12S offers a fast and smooth user experience. Whether it’s capturing incredible photos and videos, watching movies, or scrolling social media, Redmi Note 12S delivers a stable and reliable performance for all your daily entertainment. Redmi Note 12S is available in four colors—Ice Blue, Pearl Green and Onyx Black.

Apple defies times, stays quiet on AI

lution,” said a headline in Wired Magazine after the event.

‘Not necessarily AI?’

Arguments vary on why Apple has chosen a more subtle approach.

SAN FRANCISCO—Resisting the hype, Apple defied most predictions this week and made no mention of artificial intelligence when it unveiled its latest slate of new products, including its Vision Pro mixed reality headset.

Generative AI has become the tech world’s biggest buzzword ever since Microsoft-backed OpenAI released ChatGPT late last year, revealing the capabilities of the emerging technology.

ChatGPT opened the world’s eyes to the idea that computers can churn out complex, human-level content using simple prompts, giving amateurs the talents of tech geeks, artists or speechwriters.

Apple has laid low as Microsoft and Google raced out announcements on how generative AI will revolutionize its products, from online search to word processing and retouching images.

During the recent earnings season, tech CEOs peppered mentions of AI into their every phrase, eager to reassure investors that they wouldn’t miss Silicon Valley’s next big chapter.

Apple has chosen to be much more discreet and, in its closely watched keynote address to the World Developers conference in California, never once mentioned AI specifically.

“Apple ghosts the generative AI revo-

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An Unrivaled Camera System Crowned 1st Place in DXOMARK for Q1 2023

The HONOR Magic5 Pro has also taken the first place in DXOMARK global camera ranking with a score of 152, making it the highest camera scoring smartphone tested for the first quarter of 2023. The HONOR Magic5 Pro features a powerful Triple Main Camera combination comprising a 50MP Wide Camera, a 50MP Ultra Wide Camera, and a 50MP Telephoto Camera. With an increased sensor size for superior light sensing performance, the camera system produces photos in refined detail every time, no matter the lighting conditions. Ultra Fusion Computational Optics, a computational optical algorithm complementing the camera system, drastically improves image clarity at 3.5x-100x zoom, setting the device apart from other smartphones on the market.

For one, Apple follows other critics who have long been wary of the catchall “AI” term believing that it is too vague and unhelpfully evokes dystopian nightmares of killer robots and human subjugation to machines.

For this reason, some companies— including TikTok or Facebook’s Meta —roll out AI innovations, but without necessarily touting them as such.

“We do integrate it into our products [but] people don’t necessarily think about it as AI,” Apple CEO Tim Cook told ABC News this week.

Indeed, AI was actually very much part of Apple’s annual jamboree on Monday, but it required a level of technical know-how to notice.

In one instance, Apple’s head of software said “on-device machine learning” would enhance autocorrect for iPhone messaging when he could have just as well said AI.

Apple’s autocorrect innovation drew giggles with the promise of iPhones no longer correcting common expletives.

“In those moments where you just want to type a ‘ducking’ word, well, the keyboard will learn it, too,” said Craig Federighi. Autocorrect will also learn from your writing style, helping it guide suggestions, using AI technology similar to what powers ChaGPT. AFP

Shown here are (from left) Beia Latay (COO, KonsultaMD), Cholo Tagaysay (CEO, KonsultaMD), Paolo Borromeo (President and CEO, AC Health), Atty. Josette ‘Yet’ Abarca (President and CEO, Generika Drugstore) and Healthway president/CEO Jaime ‘Jimmy’ Ysmael. cal Network’s services to KonsultaMD,

Apple CEO Tim Cook AFP

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