Manila Standard - 2023 June 12 - Monday

Gibo, AFP: Sacrifices of heroes backbone of nat’l sovereignty

DEFENSE Secretary Gilberto Teodoro urged the public to remember the sacrifice and courage of the country's forefathers as the Philippines celebrates its 125th Independence Day today.

In a statement, Teodoro said that the country's heroes are the backbone of the Philippines' sovereignty.

"This is not only a day to celebrate the victory of our independence, but also a reminder of the sacrifice and courage of our ancestors in the name of establishing and defending our country," Teodoro said in Filipino. “For more than a century, their heroism served as a guide in upholding the sovereignty of our Motherland.”

Tourists flocking to Mayon

Sightseers still welcome in Albay, but DOH warns of toxic volcano gases

By Joyce Pangco Pañares

AS the crater of the majestic Mayon Volcano, world-famous for its near-perfect cone, glows fiery red at night with streaks of lava flowing, tourists flock across nearby viewing sites to capture its dangerous but dramatic beauty.

A NEARLY kilometer-high plume drifting northeast was recorded at Taal Volcano on Sunday, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), as Kanlaon Volcano recorded three volcanic earthquakes yesterday.

As of 5 a.m., Phivolcs said the 900-meter plume emission came after “pronounced upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in the Main Crater Lake” of Taal Volcano

VIEWS OF MAYON. In this photo from 2019 from the Instagram account 'Proud to be Albayano' (upper right), families play on the grounds of the Mayon Skyline Hotel and Convention Center in Tabaco, Albay. The premier view deck for tourists wanting a glimpse of the near-perfect conical volcano is currently closed, being within the 6-kilometer danger zone. Mayon was red with fresh lava on Sunday night (inset top) in this video grab from CNN Philippines, while firemen ration water to evacuees who fled the volcano's danger zone in Camalig, Albay (inset above). BFP Photos

TYPHOON Chedeng continued to enhance the southwest monsoon or “habagat” and brought heavy rains to Metro Manila and parts of Luzon hours before its expected exit from the Philippine area of responsibility late Sunday night.

In Valenzuela City, at least 29 families had to be evacuated because of flash floods over the weekend.

Meanwhile, an Orange Rainfall Warning was raised over both Zambales and Bataan provinces, slowing vehicles to a crawl on the expressway connecting the former American bases in Clark and Subic and its arterial roads.

Streets in Bulacan, particularly in

Meycauayan City, were also inundated, but there were no reports of injuries or evacuations throughout Central Luzon.

The state weather bureau said Chedeng (international name Guchol) has weakened into a severe tropical storm as of Sunday afternoon as it bent northward toward Japan.

Despite this, Chedeng would continue to enhance the habagat and bring occasional monsoon rains over the western portions of Luzon and Visayas.

PAGASA said the Ilocos Region, Zambales, and Bataan could expect monsoon rains (heavy to at times intense

By Peter Atencio

FOR many years, clearing the six-meter mark in pole vault has been the exclusive domain of 23 athletes in Europe, the United States, and Australia.

On Saturday in Norway (Sunday in Manila), a Filipino joined that elite group. Ernest John “EJ” Obiena’s sevenyear quest finally bore fruit as he jumped 6.0 meters to earn the gold medal in the Bergen Jump Challenge in Norway and become the 24th pole vaulter to join the exclusive club.

Both Taal and Kanlaon on Negros Island are under Alert Level 1, meaning they have “low-level unrest,” in contrast to Mayon Volcano's current Alert Level 3, or a step below a hazardous eruption warning (see related story on A1— Editors). On Saturday, Taal Volcano generated 6,304 tonnes of sulfur dioxide.

The western Taal Volcano Island was also observed to have "a short-term inflation," while its caldera "has long-term deflation on the ground."

The acidity level at Taal’s main crater lake also remained at 0.48, while its temperature was at 74.1 degrees Celsius, the state volcanologists said.

Entry to Taal Volcano Island, which is under the Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), and flying any aircraft close to the volcano are still restricted.

Phivolcs also warned that hazards such as steam-driven or phreatic or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and Tingog party-list representatives have facilitated the release of P33 million worth of assistance to the province of Albay in cash and in kind as increased activity

at Mayon Volcano has forced the evacuation of residents living in the permanent danger zone.

Along with party-list Reps. Yedda Marie Romualdez and Jude Acidre,

FREEDOM DAY AT SM. Store staff wave flags at SM CDO Downtown Premier mall as this June, SM Supermalls aims to keep freedom, future, and history alive with several Independence Day activities that celebrate being a 'Super Pinoy' in all ways possible.

The 27-year-old Obiena, who has been toiling in Formia, Italy ahead of this moment, went on to set new Asian and national records with his feat.

‘Chedeng’ exits PH but dumps rain, causes flooding in Luzon

Pinoys see economy rising—OCTA

HALF of the adult Filipinos in a survey think the local economy will post an improvement in the next six months, while some 40 percent believe there will be no changes from the present, the Tugon ng Masa (TNM) survey conducted by OCTA Research and released on Sunday showed.

Conducted from March 24 to 28, 2023, the survey found that 50% of respondents across the country think the economy will be better than the present, higher than the 46% recorded in October 2022.

The highest optimism was recorded in the Visayas with 69%, followed by balance Luzon with 47%, the National Capital Region

Tourists...

From A1

Tourism – Bicol Region, there will be designated viewing sites per municipality around Albay, which has traditionally seen an influx of tourists whenever the volcano churns lava and toxic gas.

“We do not have any reason to close Bicol to tourists. There are destinations that are not affected by the Mayon Volcano. Tourism should continue to flourish in Albay,” said Herbie Aguas, regional director of DOT-Bicol.

“Foreign and domestic visitors are still welcome in Albay. They can watch the Mayon Volcano from an area that is safe and away from the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone (PDZ),” he added.

Legazpi tourism officer Pita Pacres said there are several safe areas that provide a perfect view of Mayon, one of the country’s most active volcanoes named after a mythical character, Daragang Magayon (Beautiful Maiden).

Pacres said the Legazpi Boulevard and Highlands Park in Estanza are among the areas that have an unobstructed view of the volcano, which according to the National Geographic had its first recorded eruption in 1616 and has erupted about 58 times since then, “ranging from sputters to calamities.”

ATV or four-wheel rides are still allowed, for as long as these activities are done outside the PDZ.

Airport operations remained normal, according to Bicol International Airport manager Rolando Bocito. Flying any aircraft close to the volcano, however, is prohibited.

“We have increased our inspection of the runway to ensure there are no contaminants like ash fall that can affect the operation of an aircraft,” he said.

But for Health Secretary Dr. Teodoro Herbosa, the public must refrain from sightseeing near the restive volcano because its emissions contain sulfur and sulfur dioxide.

“These attach to hemoglobin and poison the blood. The dust in the ash can also stick in our lungs,” Herbosa said in a press briefing yesterday.

"Remember there is a concomitant health risk for being close to the eruption because of inhaling sulfur dioxide gas or the particulate matter," he added, advising the spectators to wear an N95 mask.

Thousands of people living near Mayon have already taken shelter in evacuation centers as officials said the volcano is already erupting.

“This is a real eruption, but it’s not hazardous because it is at the summit near the mouth of the volcano,” said Teresito Bacolcol, director of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), speaking in a mix of English and Filipino.

Seismology researchers said they had recorded at least one volcanic earthquake in the past 24 hours and red-hot rocks were falling from Mount Mayon.

More than 12,800 people inside the sixkilometer permanent danger zone have been moved to evacuation centers, the Office of Civil Defense said, most from farming villages at or near the foot of the volcano.

Speaker,...

From A1

Romualdez on Sunday said P1 million worth of assistance was allocated to each of the three districts of Albay.

The affected areas are the 1st District under Rep. Edcel Lagman, 2nd District under Rep. Joey Salceda, and 3rd District under Rep. Fernando Cabredo.

The assistance from the Speaker's office will be coursed through their respective offices.

“The members of the House of Representatives are one with the people of Albay during this challenging time. Mayon Volcano's eruption is something that we cannot stop, but so is showing malasakit to our countrymen when difficulties arise. Together, we will ride out this calamity," he said.

The P1 million in assistance for each

Obiena...

From A1

“It all started with a dream to jump over 5m and set the National Record to now be the 24th person of all time to go over the 6m barrier and the first ever Asian/Filipino,” said Obiena, who was emotional after the completion of the competition, in his message to fans on Facebook.

(NCR) with 46%, and Mindanao with 43%.

In terms of socioeconomic classes, the highest optimism was seen in Class D with 51%, followed by Class E with 50%, and Class ABC with 44%.

Geographically, the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) posted the highest percentage with 79%, while the lowest

Phivolcs said rocks were falling from a disintegrating lava dome being pushed out of the crater by molten material below the earth.

The rocks were raining down on areas up to two kilometers away and sulfur dioxide emissions had tripled since Saturday, state volcanologists said.

A five-step alert system for the volcano was raised from 2 to 3 on Thursday, with authorities warning of possible respiratory illnesses from inhaling fumes.

Residents of Tumpa in Camalig were asked to stay at the Bongabong evacuation center where some evacuees have complained of poor conditions, saying it was too hot to stay inside the modular tents.

There was also a lack of water in the restrooms.

The OCD said it is working on delivering drinking water and helping with proper waste management in evacuation centers. It has also positioned food packs and non-food items for quick delivery to affected communities.

The provincial government of Albay said it will buy the produce of farmers inside the PDZ to ensure they will not return to the area.

These goods will then be used to feed the evacuees, said Albay Gov. Edcel “Grex” Lagman.

The Department of Health said it has earmarked P1.8 million for a contingency fund that would aid those affected by Mayon Volcano’s intensified unrest.

Herbosa said P303,000 in logistics was mobilized in local government units affected by Mayon Volcano’s recent activities.

“I am asking for more money because the regional director asked me for additional funds,” he said.

Herbosa said the DOH is monitoring the situation in evacuation centers, given that crowded places are prone to the spread of respiratory infections, including COVID-19.

All hospitals, including non-DOH hospitals, specifically in the Province of Albay are on Code Blue Alert or on a 24-hour duty due to possible Mayon Volcano eruption.

Herbosa said they deployed additional personnel from the DOH central office to help out the local staff.

He also directed the regional office in Bicol to prepare emergency logistics for affected areas or to treat patients.

"They were given more supplies such as face masks, potable water, medicine, and... hygiene kits in place across all municipalities,” Herbosa said.

"We have also coordinated with the Bicol Medical Center for a fast lane for volcano-related emergencies, especially for cases such as inhaled gasses or burns,” he added.

So far, no person has been confined because of volcano-related illnesses.

Earthquakes and volcanic activity are common in the Philippines due to its position on the Pacific "Ring of Fire" where tectonic plates collide.

Five years ago, Mayon displaced tens of thousands of people after spewing millions of tons of ash, rocks, and lava.

The country's most powerful eruption in recent decades was Mount Pinatubo in 1991 that killed more than 800 people.

of the districts is broken down into P500,000 in cash and P500,000 worth of relief packs from Romualdez's personal disaster response fund.

Before dawn Sunday, hundreds of volunteers trooped toPureGoldEmbarkadero in Legazpi, Albay to repack and prepare relief goods for the displaced families.

About 1,420 relief packs for each district were readied for distribution.

The Speaker's office also coordinated with the Department of SocialWelfare and Development under Secretary Rex Gatchalian so that P10million worth of assistance would be released to each district through the agency's Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations program.

The P500,000 cash assistance will be turned over to each of the three districts on Monday. The relief packs will be distributed soon after. Rio N. Araja

Obiena’s performance allowed him to join world no. 1 Armand Duplantis among the few who have leaped six meters and beyond.

Coached by Vitaly Petrov, Obiena’s previous highest jump was at 5.94 meters, which he set when he bagged a bronze medal in the World Athletics Championship in July 2022. “It took a few moments to sink in. But when it did, tears began to fall, there was

was recorded in Soccsksargen with 12%.

Some 6% of respondents said they think the economy will be worse than the present in the next six months, down from the 10% percentage of pessimists in the previous survey conducted in October 2022.

The biggest percentage of pessimists was seen in Mindanao with 11%, followed by NCR with 7%, balance Luzon with 5%, and the Visayas with 3%.

Socioeconomically, the highest percentage of pessimists was in Class ABC with 11%, backed by Class E with 8%, and Class D with 5%.

The Davao Region had the highest percentage of pessimists with 19%, while

900-m...

From A1 ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas may occur at Taal. Meanwhile, the agency said Kanlaon’s plume was obscured, and its edifice was

More...

From A1

Meanwhile, an employment provider said local hospitals should hire retired and experienced nurses who have worked abroad to address the lack of registered nurses in the country.

LBS Recruitment Solutions Inc. President Lito B. Soriano, whose recruitment agency has deployed over 8,000 registered nurses to Saudi Arabia and other countries, said retired nurses bring a wealth of competencies, experience, expertise, and specializations in their work abroad in the military and international hospitals.

They can also be mentors to the nurses who may be hired under the DOH hiring program, Soriano said.

Last week, new Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said he wants to tap nursing graduates without a license to combat the shortage in the local health workforce.

Herbosa noted there are 4,800 vacant positions for nurses in the government.

“Nurses are in great demand while the supply is short, so we would urge both

the lowest was seen in CAR and Region II (Cagayan Valley) with zero percent.

Results also showed that 40% of respondents thought that there would be no changes in the next six months, while 4% were neither optimistic nor pessimistic.

The survey focused on the views of adult Filipinos regarding their quality of life and the economy, as commissioned by Go Negosyo. It has a ±3% margin of error at a 95% confidence level.

Just last week the inter-agency Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) maintained its economic growth projection at 6.0% to 7.0% for 2022, and from 6.5% to 8.0% from 2024 to 2028.

inflated. The last time it generated 1,089 tonnes of sulfur dioxide was on June 5.

Like Taal, entry into the four-kilometer radius PDZ of Kanlaon Volcano, and flying any aircraft close to it are prohibited. Possible hazards like sudden steamdriven or phreatic eruptions may also occur, according to Phivolcs.

male and female high school graduates to consider taking the nursing career path,”

Rillo said.

Thousands of high school students will graduate next month and enter college in August or September.

The World Health Organization, in its State-of-the- World’s Nursing 2020 report, projected that “without action, there will be a shortfall of 4.6 million nurses worldwide by 2030.”

In the Philippines, “the shortfall of nurses is expected to be 249,843 by 2030, unless greater investment is made now to retain them in the local health sector.”

Reacting to the WHO report, Rillo has been batting for a 75 percent increase in the minimum starting pay of nurses employed in government hospitals, in a bid to slow down their exodus to overseas labor markets.

He filed House Bill No. 5276 to increase the entry-level monthly pay of nursing staff in public Anticipating the impending shortage of nurses, the Commission on Higher Education in July last year removed the decade-old moratorium on the opening of new BSN programs.

‘Strong synergy’ produced record House bill output

By Rio N. Araja

THE "strong synergy" between the House of Representatives under the leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and the administration of President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. is the keyto the chamber’s record number of bills and resolutions passed during the first regular session of the 19th Congress.

Quezon Rep. Mark Enverga on Sunday thus urged his colleagues to emulate the example of Romualdez and focus on their mandate of passing legislation that will benefit the Filipino people.

“Speaker Romualdez is taking the high road. He is even urging us to be more productive as the 2nd Regular Session of Congress draws near. And I fully agree — we have to focus our eyes on the prize,which is working for the welfare of our constituents, the Filipino people,” he cited.

“And the House, under the guidance of Speaker Romualdez, has a strong synergy with President Marcos and his administration. I hope we could maintain that and continue to be effective in our objectives, such as passing priority legislation of the President,” Enverga, who spearheaded the probe on the onion issue that uncovered the cartel responsible for manipulating the supply and price of onion in the country,” he added.

Romualdez as well as Enverga warned that apart from the cartel and their cohorts, all other profiteers, including local traders and other players in the onion industry, who will continue to take advantage of the consumers will face certain prosecution.

Romualdez called for a congressional probe in December last year when prices of onion surged to over P700 a kilo to address the issue and protect the consumers. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

First Lady posts new photo with Imelda, PBBM

FIRST Lady Marie Louise "Liza" Araneta-Marcos on Sunday posted a photo showing her and her husband, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., standing and smiling behind her mother-in-law, the former First Lady Imelda RomualdezMarcos.

On her social media accounts, the First Lady greeted Filipinos in the country and abroad with a simple "Happy Sunday" as they showed the public another glimpse of their regular weekend family gathering.

Imelda Marcos, who turns 93 on July 2, is seen holding a bouquet of white flowers while seated in a wheelchair, with the President dressed casually in a white striped shirt and pants and the First Lady in a peach Sunday dress.

The photo is new proof that that the former First Lady is in good shape after her recent angioplasty surgery, which was posted on social media by her eldest daughter, Senator Imee Marcos.

“Happy to see you getting stronger and better, mommy. Healthier days are definitely ahead,” the First Lady wrote. Last March, rumors about the passing of the Marcos matriarch were quickly debunked by Sen. Marcos and the former First Lady’s niece, Eliza RomualdezValtos. Vince Lopez

‘Chedeng’...

From A1

Gibo,...

From A1

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Andres Centino said the military is one with the public for a peaceful celebration of Independence Day.

"With our combined strength and knowledge, we can easily achieve the desire for a peaceful and prosperous community," Centino said, also speaking in Filipino. "Success is certain if we are united and worktogether to take the path to a better future.”

Ahead of the celebration, the AFP and the National HistoricalCommission of the Philippines serenaded the public through its "Musikalayaan 2023" at the Rizal Park, Luneta, Manila on Sunday night.

The AFP's Civil Relations' Service Media and Civil Affairs Group (MCAG) hosted the event with the theme "Kalay-

no greater shoulder to cry on than my coach, Vitaliy. Couldn’t have done it without you,” added Obiena.

KC Lightfoot of the United States, whose highest jump is 6.07 meters, also leaped to a 6-meter height, but settled for silver via countback, having done it in two tries.

Tokyo Olympics silver medalist Chris Nilsen of the USA, another six-meter specialist on a good day, snared the bronze at 5.88m. Obiena, the third pole vaulter in this

aan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan" (Freedom. Future. History).

"(The activity) aims to commemorate the 125th anniversary of Independence Day with military talent. It will be completely free from admission fees and can catch the live stream through DWDD 1134 kHz AFP Radio simulcast at AFP Radio DWDD," MCAG commander Maj. Ceno Pancito III said in a statement.

He added that the concert allows defense agencies to promote national pride in a country with a heritage of valor and bravery.

Bands that joined "Musikalayaan 2023" include the 2nd Infantry Division (2ID) Jungle Fighter Band, Bureau of Fire Protection Band, Jeck Pilpil & Peacepipe, and East Side Band.

Pancito said representatives of various uniformed services would also do solo, duet, ensemble, quartet, and dance performances. Charles Dantes (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

outdoor season to make the 6-meter height, had daydreamed of reaching the mark when he first went to Formia to train under Petrov in 2016. Duplantis, who holds the world record at 6.27 meters, took the height of 6.11 meters last June 4 in Hengelo.

Lightfoot went up to 6.07 last June 2 in Nashville, improving from his personal best of 6.05. Obiena overcame a bad start after he

rains) while Metro Manila, Abra, Benguet, the rest of Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Occidental Mindoro and Northern Palawan, including Calamian and Cuyo Islands,could experience cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms.

PAGASA said the effect of Chedeng on habagat would decrease as it moved further away from the country.

On social media, netizens shared how the historic San Agustin Churchin Paoay, Ilocos Norte was barely visible amid a midday thunderstorm,its grounds drenched.

In the city of Manila, motorists and pedestrians dealt with gutter-deep floods along Taft and Rizal Avenues, while residents of Quezon City along Valencia St. suffered the same. Charles Dantes and Rio Araja

fouled on his first attempt at 5.53 meters before he went perfect by hurdling 5.76m, 5.82m, 5.94m, and ultimately, 6m, all in single attempts.

Earlier, Obiena went home with the bronze medal with his 5.72-meter performance at the Irena Szewinska Memorial in Poland.

There, Nilsen took the gold at 5.92 meters, with Piotr Lisek of Poland taking the silver at 5.82 meters.

FIRST FAMILY PIC. In this photo posted on Facebook, First Lady Liza AranetaMarcos and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stand beside former First Lady Imelda Marcos, in a wheelchair, after their usual Sunday lunch at home.

IN BRIEF

Bataan vice gov in blockchain gab

BATAAN Vice Governor Cris Garcia highlighted Bataan’s initiatives in blockchain technology to enhance the modernization and efficiency of public service delivery when she led the presentation of the provincial government at the recent London Blockchain Conference in the United Kingdom.

She presented to the conference the technology initiatives the province adopted that included an electronic medical record system for an efficient healthcare system; developments at the Freeport Area of Bataan in terms of opening its doors to blockchain industry locators; and partnership with NChain for establishing a platform that will streamline current government systems.

The event provided numerous opportunities for the province including the expressed interest of the Department of Information and Technology (DICT) in assisting Bataan in developing an application to advance electronic governance or e-governance, stated the Bataan provincial information office. Butch Gunio

‘Amber alert’ system for kidnapping urged

A LAWMAKER is pushing for a measure that implements an alert system against kidnapping and other crimes.

In his Senate Bill No 2256 or the Philippine Amber Alert Act, Senator Mark Villar said in a news release issued Sunday that kidnapping and other forms of crimes can be easily solved through the system which provides the public with immediate and up-to-date information regarding a missing or kidnapped child through a widespread media broadcast on television, radio and wireless devices.

The system, first developed in the United States, aimed to involve community members to search for the kidnapped child and suspect.

Pacquiao tops SWS senatorial poll

FORMER Senator Manny Pacquiao ranked first in a recently commissioned survey taken by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) on the preferred lawmakers of Filipino voters.

The commissioned survey, conducted from April 15-18, 2023, had Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. placing second, while former Senate President Vicente Sotto III ranked third. fifth was business tycoon and former

Senate President Manny Villar. Senator Lito Lapid, Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, and Senator Imee Marcos were from 6th to 8th spots. Former President Rodrigo Du

along with former Social Welfare Secretary Erwin Tulfo, former Senator Panfilo Lacson, and incumbent Senator Pia Cayetano.

Former Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno, former Vice President Leni Robredo, former Vice President Jejomar Binay, Atty. Chel Diokno, former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, former Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto, and Senator Francis Tolentino were

among those ranked 13th to 31st in the survey.

The April national poll was commissioned by former party-list congressman Arnel Ty and was taken using face-to-face computer-assisted personal interviews of 1,200 adults.

It has a ±3% sampling error margin for national percentages, and ±6% each for Metro Manila, Balance of Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao, according to SWS.

PH, US renew pact to boost bureaucracy

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Philippines and the United States have renewed their partnership to undertake needed programs aimed at improving the country’s bureaucratic efficiency following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for digital transformation in government.

This came after Anti-Red Tape Authority Secretary Ernesto Perez paid a courtesy visit to US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson at the US Embassy on June 9.

In a Facebook post, the ARTA described the meeting as a “significant milestone” in ARTA’s partnership with the US Government for regulatory reforms.

Perez and Carlson reportedly engaged in fruitful discussions, exploring collaborations and sharing insights to foster an environment encouraging investment and sustainable economic growth.

“ARTA is committed to strengthening the partnership between the Philippines and the United States as steadfast friends, equal partners, and enduring allies for bureaucratic efficiency,” the agency said.

According to the agency, the assistance provided by the US Government through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) enabled ARTA to swiftly implement programs to enhance the ease of doing business in the Philippines and promote transparency and efficiency in government processes.

Among such programs are the Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) Manual, the Philippine Business Regulations Information System (PBRIS), and Anti-Red Tape Electronic Management System (ARTEMIS).

Carlson was one of the speakers during ARTA’s fifthanniversary celebration at the Manila Hotel on May 29.

VALENZUELA’S BET. Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian (left) welcomes Maria Steia I. Sian, who will represent the city in the Mrs. Universe Philippines pageant on June 18, 2023 at Rizal Park Hotel, Manila. The 53-yearold stunner Sian will compete with other contestants from across the country, and paid a courtesy call on Gatchalian to discuss plans that will impact not only Valenzuelaños but residents of nearby cities as well. Boy Bautista

Deconstructing the ‘disunity’

THE unravelling of the “unity” team began with the unceremonious but perfectly understandable (whether by Machiavelli or Sun Tzu standards) demotion of the former president, former speaker, former senator and now one of 10 deputy speakers of the House.

Speaker Romualdez acted with dispatch after hearing murmurs about a coup being hatched by dissatisfied members of the HoR who brought their complaints to the lady who once coveted his perch, something she admitted, but now supposedly disdains.

As she was the “chosen” successor to a decapitated speaker in the Duterte government, complete with SONA drama, Romualdez cannot be faulted for what the lady’s supporters call unceremonious and disrespectful.

Any politician worth his salt would “nip in the bud” threats to power, and the speaker is no slouch when it comes to the game of thrones.

But while politics is the art of the possible, it is also the art of the surprise, and the statements from the Sara and GMA camps come to many as subliminal revelations.

Recall that GMA explained in her second post-facto statement that everyone knows the speakership can happen only with presidential imprimatur, thereby insinuating that Romualdez had that from PFRM Jr. before she was demoted.

Uneasy lies the crown when two fiefdoms, from the North and the South, are feeling antsy

What has since become the talk of the noisy and nosy small town (politicians, political observers and the “marites”) is more the reaction of the vice president, Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio y Zimmerman who resigned immediately after from the Lakas of both Arroyo and Romualdez.

This writer will no longer comment on the “tambaloslos” tweet which Davaoenos recall was the favorite expletive of the vice-president’s grandmother, the esteemed Nanay Soling, just as “p..i” was her son’s cri de coeur each time he was angry. Inday Sara, while fast with her fists, is decidedly calibrating with her words, with a touch of elegant prose that writers like us cannot but admire.

It is the official statement issued after her 45th birthday that we shall try to deconstruct in this article, like tea leaves geomancers read and political observers “analyze.”

The antecedent that triggered the reaction was a side comment from Cavite representative Elpidio Barzaga Jr., which seemed to imply that Speaker Martin did not deserve the pointed barbs from the vice president, including intentionally omitting the president’s middle name in a birthday celebration.

“Sycophants,” she implied. Many more from the HoR followed Barzaga. They know wherefrom the butter in their bread comes, and for now it isn’t from Davao.

Yet as she herself said, one must not mistake humor for attack. But never mind the tit for tat.

What is rather interesting are the second and third sentences, where she calls the allegation of Speaker Martin’s help in pushing for her VP bid as “acutely

Monitoring Mayon N

inaccurate,” and “an insult to thousands of groups and individuals who incessantly implored (her) to reconsider an earlier decision not to join national politics.”

Take note of the words “national politics.” Her legion of admirers wanted her to run for president, no less, remember? From mayora to presidenta no less.

Then she identifies Senadora Imee as the person who “eventually persuaded me to run as vice-president.”

And now comes the most intriguing part—“it was a decision sealed only after PBBM agreed to the conditions I set before running for vice-president.”

Underscore “only” and “conditions” before agreeing to be Numero Segundo, instead of what many expected and what her supporters wanted—Numero Uno.

Now one should ask—what are those conditions?

On the matter of timing, it comes at about the same time the president appointed Gilbert Teodoro as defense secretary, a position that supposedly Sara wanted, as stated by then presidential candidate Bongbong Marcos?

And Senadora Imee, the president’s elder sister, take note once again, has not been totally supportive of her brother’s presidential initiatives, whether on his pro-US of A expansion of foreign military presence or the Maharlika fund.

Neither the senator nor the vicepresident have been endorsing persons for appointive positions in an administration that till now has many vacancies yet to fill.

The vice-president finds the antics of the congressmen she labeled “sycophants” as “quite amusing.”

Make no mistake, however, for when her time comes, she will not forget, and she will not be amused.

But the latter part of her statement is gist for intrigue, where she reiterates that the administration of the president is “strong and stable.”

And why not? With close to 300 congressmen belonging to various flags of convenience marching to the beat of the speaker’s “curacha” (the signature Waray dance), and a Senate too submissive as well (except for the presidential sister and another senadora who sees nothing good in the administration), how can it not be strong and stable?

Ah! But the last sentence raises eyebrows of some observers: “It has my all-out support and the support of the majority of the Filipino people.”

Why preface support as “my,” when they are supposed to be a “uniteam,” and the president’s “BFF?”

Will her all-out support diminish in time, waiting for another casus belli?

How much further would “unity” unravel down the not too long road to 2025, and the yet long road to 2028?

The pinklawans are beside themselves with joy. But then again, do they yet matter in the political scheme of things?

Their Manay Leni is content with traipsing around the world, and even her signature Angat-Buhay seems inactive even as Mayon Volcano in her region acts up, threatening eruption.

Uneasy lies the crown when two fiefdoms, from the North and the South, are feeling antsy.

Meanwhile, “Mabuhay ang Kalayaan!”

OT only the Bicol region but provinces around Mayon volcano are watching as the mandatory evacuation of residents within its six-kilometerradius permanent danger zone or PDZ due to the threat of a “hazardous” eruption is going on.

Level 4—while keeping an eye as well on Taal volcano in Batangas which has shown signs of unrest—around 16,000 to 40,000 residents living within the extended seven-kilometer danger zone will be evacuated.

In Malacanang, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. gave assurance the government is prepared to assist areas that may be affected by the increased volcanic activity of Mayon and Taal volcanoes.

“We are ready. We have been doing that ever since. We watch it very closely, make sure that any of the communities that could be affected are

evacuated and are given assistance while they are evacuated until the time that they can return to their homes. It’s the same thing,” the President said.

Albay Governor Grex Lagman has identified the cities of Legazpi, Tabaco and Ligao, and the municipalities of Camalig, Daraga, Guinobatan, Bacacay, Malilipot, and Sto. Domingo as areas vulnerable to Mayon’s increasing unrest. Lagman, while stressing there is no panic, said the provincial government is set to place Albay under a state of calamity, which will allow authorities to acquire quick access funds to assist affected residents.

Phivolcs said it recorded at least 267 rockfall events and six dome-collapse Pyroclastic Density Currents or PDCs, mixtures of volcanic rock, volcanic ash (pulverized rock, glass, and crystals), and gas that can travel at great speeds, are seen by experts as perhaps the most hazardous events to local areas during explosive volcanic eruptions. Volcanologists say these hot, ground-hugging flows of ash and debris can travel at speeds of hundreds of meters per second, reaching many tens to hundreds of kilometers from the source Paul Alanis, Phivolcs resident volcanologist at the Lignon Hill Observatory in Legazpi City, said the rockfall events had duration of one minute to three minutes, and “transported lava debris within a kilometer range of the southern upper slopes.” Steam-laden plumes, fair crater glow, and incandescent rockfall have also been observed.

AS THE country celebrates its 125th Independence Day today and marks the end of the 16-day period of honoring National Flag Day which began on May 28, we ask where is the first Philippine flag now?

On March 6, 1965, Presidential Proclamation 374 was issued declaring May 28 as National Flag Day to commemorate the date the national emblem was first unfurled after the Philippine Revolutionary Army defeated the Spanish forces in the Battle at Alapan, Imus, Cavite in 1898

Nearly 30 years later, on May 23, 1994, Executive Order 79 was issued extending the period of celebrating National Flag Day from May 28 to June 12.

It is observed as a national holiday in the Philippines in celebration of the country’s independence from Spain, which ruled the nation for 377 years as from 1521 when Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan, sailing under the flag of Spain, discovered the islands for Europe.

It was in 1898 when the flag was hoisted for the first time and the nation came together to form the country’s first republic.

On these dates—May 28 to June 12— Filipinos are encouraged to display the Philippine flag in all offices, agencies and instruments of government, business establishments, schools, and private homes throughout this period, according to the

TODAY, the Filipino nation raises its flag to commemorate 125 years of Philippine Independence in a complex and in what experts are seeing is now in an environment at a high level of flux where our government’s vow to implement an independent foreign policy will be tested by the high stakes geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific.

It is important to reflect on the history of our nationhood and remember how we have struggled and evolved from what is still mostly centuries of colonial rule, fighting revolutions, wars, and treaties.

In the aftermath of the Spanish-American War, independence from Spanish rule was declared on June 12, 1898, by Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the First Philippine Republic.

Aspirations of sovereignty was thwarted when the Treaty of Paris of 1898 ceded the Philippines to the United States.

The next year Filipinos fought the Americans in the Philippine-American War until defeated in 1902, then the United States established a civil government with the promise to eventually grant independence.

In 1935, the Commonwealth of the Philippines was created as a transitional government to independence, but World War II broke out with Japan invading and occupying the Philippines from 1941 until liberation by American and Filipino forces in 1945.

The Treaty of Manila finally recognized Philippine Independence on July 4, 1946, as a unitary presidential Constitutional Republic. President Manuel Roxas was its first president.

This historical digest of Philippine Independence shows how after nearly eight decades of post-war, post-cold war, post-Soviet Union, postArab Summer, post-economic booms and crises, and post-COVID 19 pandemics, economic and geopolitical alignments have, and will continue to change.

The Philippines is now in the strategic center of polarizing alignments amidst aggressive expansionist actions of China threatening the stability of the region.

Celebrating Independence Day is not just about honoring the sacrifices of our heroes and cherishing the culture and heritage we now have. It is an opportunity to re-assess and recalibrate goals and directions as we recover from the deep

scars of the pandemic.

The spirit of independence as a nation is intimately related to the government’s ability to protect and pursue national interests which goes beyond securing our territories from external and internal threats.

The pandemic has taught the world that national security encompasses the intermeshed dimensions of the environment, health, and economic sustainability. Still recovering from the global pandemic, escalating geopolitical tensions spawned by China’s expansionist ambitions are threatening to cause a serious disruption in the Indo-Pacific region that, like the ongoing Ukraine war, will radiate more damaging economic shocks globally.

of the Philippines, Japan, and Australia started its first patrols in the West Philippine Sea.

Newly appointed, returning Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. who first served in the post during the administration of then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, said in a recent press briefing, “Our territory is our territory, and UNCLOS cannot be changed by the passage of time, nor changes in administration.”

I liked his slight twit to Beijing when he said, “As a stronger country, it (China) has the bigger obligation to be magnanimous and show trust and to earn the trust of the Filipino people by conforming its activities to recognize norms of international law, which in our case is UNCLOS.”

The Philippines has undergone much political, social, and economic evolutions and continues to be confronted by challenges, so many hits and seemingly much more misses, but with the Filipinos’ ever resilient and good nature the country has always managed survive as a democratic state.

China’s aggressive behavior poses a serious threat to regional stability and directly violates Philippine sovereign rights.

In a responsive shift from his predecessor, President Marcos Jr. has recalibrated the Philippine defense strategy to focus on external capabilities.

In his recent statement during the 125th Anniversary of the Philippine Navy, he said, “In this crucial transition, full support for the Armed Forces must be guaranteed especially for the Philippine Navy’s priority goals of enhancing its intelligence, defense and coordinative capabilities.”

The Philippine Coast Guard is now pro-actively patrolling and responding with bold professionalism to regular encounters with Chinese vessels intruding in our territories.

Ten navigational buoys have been installed to warn mariners of shallow waters and also serve as sovereign markers. Last week, the coast guards

Where is the first Philippine flag now?

government’s Philippine Information Agency.

There are rules and prohibitions in the proper display of the National Flag to give respect and reverence to this symbol of national sovereignty and solidarity as it is the embodiment of the country’s ideals, culture and tradition.

For household and office display, the flag must be displayed vertically, with the triangle on top.

The blue field should be to the right (left of observer) and the red field to the left (right of the observer). The flag should never be displayed horizontally except in flagpoles or hung fastened by its fly.

When the flag is displayed in a manner other than by being flown from a staff, it should be displayed flat, whether indoors or out.

When displayed either horizontally or vertically against a wall, the union should be uppermost and to the flag’s own right, that is, to the observer’s left.

In displaying the Philippine Flag, there are some prohibitions too, as it is the most powerful visual representation of the nation’s common heritage, it symbolizes the country’s sovereignty and national solidarity, thus, it should be treated with reverence and respect at all times, the PIA said. Do not use the Flag as festoon, tablecloth; cover for ceilings, walls, statues, or other objects; pennant in the hood, side, back, and top of motor

Vexillologists say the flag is a symbol of unity as it stands for the unity of the multi-ethnic and multi-lingual Filipinos from up north in Batanes to down south in Tawi Tawi

vehicles; staff or whip; unveiling monuments or statues; and trademarks or for industrial, commercial, or agricultural labels or designs.

Never display the Flag in the following manner: under any painting or picture; horizontally face-up.

It shall always be hoisted aloft and be allowed to fall freely; below any platform; or in discotheques, cockpits, night and day clubs, casinos, gambling joints, and places of vice or

where frivolity prevails.

It is also prohibited to vandalize, mutilate, defile, or step on the flag; it cannot be dipped as a way to compliment or salute any person or object; to wear the flag in whole or in part as a costume or uniform; to add any word, figure, mark, picture, design, drawings, advertisements, or imprint of any nature on the flag; to print, paint or attach representation of the flag on handkerchiefs, napkins, cushions, and other articles of merchandise; to display in public any foreign flag, except in embassies and other diplomatic establishments, and in offices of international organizations; to use, display or be part of any advertisement of infomercial; and to display the flag in front of buildings or offices occupied by aliens. Any person or judicial entity which violates any of the provisions of Republic Act 8491 known as an Act Prescribing the Code of the National Flag, Anthem, Motto, Coat-of-Arms and Other heraldic Items and Devices of the Philippines shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine of not less than P5,000 but not more than P20,000, or by imprisonment for not more than one year, or both.

The first Philippine flag was sewn by Marcela Mariño de Agoncillo, Lorenza Agoncillo, and Delfina Herbosa de Natividad in Hong Kong and first flown in battle on May 28, 1898.

We must be firm and maintain an uncompromising position over the West Philippine Sea in accordance with the 2016 arbitral ruling and international law. We must strengthen alliances and partnerships with like-minded states committed to uphold the rules-based international order that would create what geopolitical experts call a “collective deterrence” against China’s aggression.

This is an alliance that wants deter war, an alliance to sustain the peace and stability that has fostered a global, and China’s economic boom.

Equal focus should be on economic engagements for trade and investment partnerships that will reboot our economy to a higher trajectory and directly benefit Filipinos.

Vexillologists say the flag is a symbol of unity as it stands for the unity of the multiethnic and multi-lingual Filipinos from up north in Batanes to down south in Tawi Tawi.

A common flag has the power to bring together people of various ethnicities under one nationality as they work together for the betterment of their nation with pride.

It is a day to renew one’s nationalism, particularly that the Philippines had been under colonial rule for centuries, and its people’s revolution and the struggle for independence are admirable, vexillologists say.

For every Filipino, this day serves as a reminder of their journey and rekindles their love for their country and allows citizens and residents of the country to spend some quality time with their loved one

But we go back to the first paragraph: Where is the first Philippine flag now, the one sewn by the Taal, Batangas-born Marcela Mariño de Agoncillo (1860-1946) et al.?

It is still in the care of the Aguinaldo Museum in Happy Glen Loop Rd, in Baguio City, a museum owned and managed by the descendants of former Philippine President Emilio Aguinaldo (1869-1964).

A daughter ofthe former President built the museum in1985 to serve as a shelter for the first Philippine flag.

Twenty-six years later, the grandchildren of Cristina Aguinaldo-Suntay, daughter of Aguinaldo, agreed to turn the facility into an interactive museum.

It is now a tribute to the revolutionaries of different eras who had taken a significant role in fighting for the country’s independence.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. gave assurance the government is prepared to assist areas that may be affected by the increased volcanic activity of Mayon and Taal volcanoes

We must be firm and maintain an uncompromising position over the West Philippine Sea in accordance with the 2016 arbitral ruling and international law

Nat’l interests, independent foreign policy, and the spirit of Independence Day

IN BRIEF

Suspect faces charges in broadcaster’s murder

THE Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) has released the photo of the alleged gunman in the fatal shooting of radio broadcaster Cresenciano Aldevino ‘Cris’ Bundoquin.

Oriental Mindoro police director, P/Col. Samuel Delorino said murder and attempted murder cases have been filed against Isabelo Lopez Bautista. The pictures of Bautista received by the PTFoMS from several independent sources, including his screenshot photo in his Facebook account before it was deactivated, also show him to be the same person identified by John Mar, Bundoquin’s son. Vince Lopez

DOH chief leads bike day celebrations in Taguig

HEALTH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, along with Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano, joined the nation in celebrating World Bicycle Day to encourage bicycles as an alternative mode of transportation.

Herbosa said the celebration intends to promote the use of bicycles as a sustainable and alternative means of transportation.

“Biking is a simple yet effective form of exercise and helps in reducing the levels of pollution in the country,” Herbosa said. Macon Ramos-Araneta

DHSUD officials inspect Pampanga project

DEPARTMENT of Human Settlements and Urban Development

(DHSUD) Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, along with and Social Housing Finance Corp. president Federico Laxa, has recently inspected an ongoing housing project in Pampanga under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program.

Acuzar checked on the progress of the Crystal Peak Homes in Barangay Del Carmen in the City of San Fernando, along with other DHSUD and SHFC officials.

The project is situated in an eighthectare land where around 30 condominium-type 12-story buildings will be constructed. It is projected to generate over 8,300 units measuring 2528 square meters each. Rio N. Araja

Meralco sorry for NAIA-3 ‘accidental’ power outage

By Alena Mae S. Flores

POWER retailer Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) apologized over the weekend for the power outage at the NAIA Terminal 3 due to the accidental fault of its subsidiary Meralco Energy Inc.

“We are issuing this statement to confirm that MServ, in the presence of MIAA personnel, was conducting testing activities of NAIA Terminal 3’s electrical facilities when the brief power outage occurred last Friday,” Meralco spokesman Joe Zaldarriaga said.

He said MServ, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Meralco, is doing the activity as part of the comprehensive technical au-

dit aimed at improving NAIA Terminal 3’s electrical system following the outage that hit the airport terminal last May 1.

“According to an incident report submitted to airport authorities, an MServ personnel accidentally left grounding conductors attached to electrical equipment during a testing activity, which triggered an electrical fault at 12:50 p.m. that subsequently caused the pow-

By Rio N. Araja

TIAONG in Quezon Province has been declared an insurgency-free municipality.

Local government officials also recently signed a memorandum of understanding declaring the town’s Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) status.

Tiaong Mayor Vincent Arjay Mea led the MOU signing, together with Councilor Eula Lopez who represents Quezon Governor Dr. Helen Tan; Vice Mayor Dick Umali; 201st IB commander Brig. Gen. Erwin Alea; Quezon police director Col. Ledon Monte, 59th IB commander Lt. Col. Ernesto Teneza; and 1st Quezon PMFC commander Major Rodelio Calawit.

The signing of the SIPS MOU highlighted the joint efforts of the military, police, local government units (LGUs), and national government agencies, including civic groups, to finally declare Tiaong an “insurgencyfree” municipality.

In his message, Mea expressed his gratitude to all concerned sectors, especially the military and the police, for working to make his country insurgency-free. Roy

Tomandao

er interruption of NAIA Terminal 3’s facilities on June 9,” Zaldarriaga said. He said the affected facilities were immediately isolated, and power was restored at 1:29 p.m. of the same day. Meralco also dispatched crew on site to assist MServ and MIAA.

Zaldarriaga said part of the incident report submitted were specific recommendations to ensure smoother conduct of succeeding audit and testing activities of NAIA Terminal 3’s facilities.

“These include, among others, the strict implementation of toolbox meeting among MIAA, MServ, and Meralco prior to any activity, and conduct of thorough joint inspection of work area prior to energization of facilities being tested,” he said.

CAGAYAN de Oro City Rep. Rufus

Rodriguez on Sunday urged the government to restart peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army, and their political arm, the National Democratic Front. He made the appeal in reaction to the statement of Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. that he was not in favor of resuming negotiations with the communists.

Rodriguez said it was unfortunate that the defense chief has taken such a personal stand.

“I hope that he reconsiders that position, because this long-running communist insurgency has resulted in the loss of many Filipino lives - communist guerrillas, soldiers and civilians, including children. Just one Filipino the government could save by talking with the communists is worth all the effort,” he said.

If the military’s claim that the communists are dwindling in number were true, the state is morally obliged to get them to talk peace instead of “finishing them off,” as one officer has put it, he noted.

“I am sure that these CPP-NPANDF remnants would want to enjoy life in peace with their families, instead of getting exterminated by the overwhelming military power of the state. They should realize that their dream of more 50 years of taking over the government has remained just that - an impossible dream,” he cited.

He reminded Teodoro that many towns in his home province of Tarlac and neighboring Pampanga were hotbeds of communist insurgency in the past.

DOJ: 2 state-owned coconut firms should remit 50% of earnings

By Rey E. Requejo

TWO corporations in the coconut industry are owned and controlled by the government and should be remitting at least 50 percent of their earnings to the Bureau of Treasury (BTr), according to the Department of Justice (DOJ).

Acting on the legal opinion sought

by BTr Trust Fund Management Committee (TFMC) Secretariat Head Rosalia De Leon, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the two corporations are the United Coconut Chemicals, Inc. (CocoChem) and the Coconut Industry Investment FundOil Mills Group (CIIFF-OMG).

“We confirm that both CocoChem

and the CIIF-OMG are GOCCs (government-owned and controlled corporations) and are required to remit at least 50 percent of their reported net earnings to the National Government, through the BTr,” Remulla stressed.

De Leon sought a confirmatory legal opinion from the DOJ after it was discovered during the 11th TFMC

meeting held last March 13 that Cocochem and CIIF-OMG have not been remitting their dividends to the national government.

Citing the Supreme Court (SC) ruling on Leyson vs. Ombudsman, Remulla said the high tribunal explained that the Administrative Code of 1987 mentioned three requisites for GOCCs.

Calamba announces Buhayani Festival ‘23

By Roy Tomandao

THE local government of Calamba announced the upcoming Calambagong Buhayani Festival 2023.

Calamba Mayor Roseller H. Rizal made the announcement in a press conference on Sunday.

Rizal cordially also invited journalists to help provide a proper platform for the Calambagong Buhayani Festival and to raise its recognition not only in the country but also worldwide.

“This year, our collaboration with local and national media will be even stronger in spreading cultural awareness and promoting the spirit of heroism to all,” Rizal said.

“That is why I have great admiration and

gratitude for people like you because you are part of the success of our endeavor to give a voice to change here in the city of Calamba. And even now, you are with us in promoting and making our initiated reforms felt. From programs in education, health, and infrastructure, to the current approval for the return of the Buhayani Festival here in the City of Calamba.” Rizal said.

According to Maolen Karla Boholano, Officer-in-Charge of the Calamba City Cultural Affairs, Tourism, and Sports Development Department, the CalamBagong Buhayani Festival celebrates not only the life of Jose Rizal but also the remarkable contributions of modern-day Calambeños.

Marcos urged to revive peace talks with Reds

Tiaong is now insurgency-free, signs SIPS pact

Mayor Roseller

Rizal of Calamba City

‘ELEVATE WPS DISPUTE.’ Members of Akbayan hold protest actions at the Boy Scout Circle in Quezon City a day before the 125th anniversary of Philippine Independence. The group challenged the government to elevate disputes in the West Philippine Sea to the United Nations General Assembly.  Manny Palmero

INSURGENCY-FREE. Tiaong Mayor Vincent Arjay Mea led the signing of a memorandum of understanding declaring the town’s Stable Internal Peace and Security status. The local government said Tiaong is now insurgency-free. Roy Tomandao

Trump

rallies supporters after getting indicted

DONALD Trump addressed his supporters Saturday for the first time since his indictment on multiple federal charges propelled the 2024 presidential election race into uncharted and potentially destabilizing territory.

The 37 counts of the indictment— released on Friday and focused on his alleged mishandling of classified materials—set the former president up for a far more severe legal reckoning than the charges of personal, political and commercial misconduct he has largely ridden out in the past.

And it also sets the stage for a White House race like no other before it, with President Joe Biden’s Department of Justice pursuing the prosecution of the clear front-runner for the Republican nomination.

Trump, who has already denounced what he insists is a politically-motivated witch hunt, is talking at two state Republican conventions in Georgia and then North Carolina, and was widely expected to use both platforms to attack the FBI and accuse federal prosecutors of unfairly targeting him.

In Columbus, Georgia, Trump railed against Biden and the Department of Justice and what he called a “fake indictment,” telling the crowd he was being pursued in court because of his bid for a second term in the White House.

“That’s why they’re doing it, if I wasn’t, there would be no witch hunt, there would be no indictment,” he told supporters.

The two events come just days before Trump is due to appear in federal court in Miami to answer the explosive charges he put US national security “at risk” by willfully retaining classified defense information, conspiring to obstruct justice, corruptly concealing documents, and making false statements. AFP

BETWEEN JANUARY AND APRIL THIS YEAR

Over3,400 women missing in Peru

More than 3,400 women were reported missing in Peru between January and April this year, the Ombudsman’s Offi ce reported on Saturday.

In the office’s report—titled “What happened to them?”—the first four months of 2023 saw 3,406 complaints of missing women filed. Only 1,902

were found, and 1,504 are still missing, the report said. Peru’s “situation... as to disappearances would be classified as a situation

Several killed in attacks vs. Vietnam police

SEVERAL people were killed and wounded in shootings at two police headquarters in Vietnam’s Central Highlands on Sunday, authorities said.

Six people were arrested in connection with the shootings in Cu Kuin district of Dak Lak province, according to the ministry of public security’s website.

Investigators were searching for more suspects, it said.

The attacks on the police headquarters of both Ea Tieu and Ea Ktur communes occurred in the early hours of Sunday, according to the site.

It said a number of people, including police, local officials and civilians were killed and wounded but did not provide exact figures.

Police could not be reached immediately be reached for comment.

The Central Highlands, home to a number of ethnic minorities, is considered a sensitive area for Vietnam’s authoritarian government and has long been a hotbed of discontent over issues that include land rights.

Some tribes in the area—collectively known as Montagnards—sided with the US-backed south during Vietnam’s decades-long war. Some are calling for more autonomy, while others abroad advocate independence for the region.

Several state media outlets withdrew their reports about the incident earlier on Sunday before republishing them hours later.

Gun violence is extremely uncommon in Vietnam, where it is illegal for citizens to own firearms and the black market for weapons is limited.

Four people were shot dead at an illegal cockfighting betting ring on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh city in January 2020.

In another rare shooting in 2016, two senior officials in northern Yen Bai province were killed by a colleague at their office before the gunman shot himself. AFP

of imminent danger,” said Isabel Ortiz, deputy for the Ombudsman.

“The State is not taking action to prevent these types of events,” which happen each year in the Andean nation of 33 million people, she said.

“The State is not making the issue of disappearances (mostly kidnappings and abductions) a priority agenda item.”

Clashes resume in Sudan as 24-hr ceasefire ends

SHELLING and gunfire resumed Sunday in the Sudanese capital, witnesses said, at the end of a 24-hour ceasefire that had given civilians rare respite from nearly two months of war.

Deadly fighting has raged in the northeast African country since midApril, when army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), turned on each other.

The latest in a series of ceasefire agreements enabled civilians trapped in the capital Khartoum to venture outside and stock up on food and other essential supplies.

But only 10 minutes after it ended

at 6:00 am (0400 GMT) on Sunday the capital was rocked again by the sound of shelling and clashes, witnesses told AFP.

Heavy artillery fire was heard in Khartoum and its twin city Omdurman to the north, and fighting also erupted on AlHawa Street, a major artery in the south of the capital, the witnesses said.

Multiple truces have been agreed and broken since the fighting started, and Washington had slapped sanctions on both rival generals after the last attempt collapsed at the end of May.

The latest nationwide ceasefire was announced by US and Saudi mediators who warned they may break off mediation efforts.

“Should the parties fail to observe the 24-hour ceasefire, facilitators will be compelled to consider adjourning” talks in the Saudi city of Jeddah which have been suspended since late last month, the mediators said on Saturday.

The mediators said they “share the frustration of the Sudanese people about the uneven implementation of previous ceasefires.”

Upwards of 1,800 people have been killed in the fighting, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project.

Nearly two million people have been displaced, including 476,000 who have sought refuge in neighboring countries, the United Nations says. AFP

Indigenous upbringing helped kids survive Amazon ordeal

LOST for 40 days in the Colombian Amazon, four Indigenous children survived eating seeds, roots, and plants they knew were edible thanks to their upbringing.

And it was in part down to the local knowledge of Indigenous adults involved in the search alongside Colombian troops that they were ultimately found alive.

“The survival of the children is a sign of the knowledge and relationship with the natural environment that is taught starting in the mother’s womb,” according to the National Organization of Indigenous Peoples of Colombia (OPIAC).

The four siblings survived a small plane crash on May 1 that took the lives of the pilot, their mother and a third adult. The family of the children clung to hope that the siblings’ familiarity with the jungle would see them through.

The “children of the bush,” as their grandfather called them, survived eating yucca flour that was aboard the doomed plane, and scavenging from relief parcels dropped

by search helicopters. But they also ate seeds, fruits, roots, and plants that they identified as edible from their upbringing in the Amazon region, Luis Acosta of the National Indigenous Organization of Colombia (ONIC), told AFP. Acosta, who took part in search operations, said the children were imbued with “spiritual force.”

That is a shared perception among Indigenous leaders, and Acosta noted that a guardian was to be posted outside the military hospital where doctors were attending to the children to help accompany them “spiritually.”

“We have a particular connection to nature,” Javier Betancourt, another ONIC leader, told AFP. “The world needs this kind of special relation with nature, to favor those like the Indigenous who live in the jungle and take care of it.”

During the search, soldiers worked side by side with Indigenous trackers for 20 days. AFP

In 2022, more than 5,380 women, mostly girls and teenagers, were reported missing, a figure 9.7 percent lower than in 2021. According to various feminist NGOs, the police and the prosecutor’s office do not sufficiently investigate many cases because they believe that the women fled voluntarily. AFP

IN BRIEF

WHO sta killed in Somalia siege

AN employee with the World Health Organization was among those killed in the weekend siege of a beachside hotel in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu, the head of the UN health agency said on Sunday.

The siege left six civilians dead and another 10 wounded, according to police.

“I’m heartbroken that we have lost a WHO staff member in the recent attack in #Mogadishu, #Somalia,” Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO director general, tweeted on Sunday.

“My heartfelt condolences to their families and to everyone who lost a loved one,” he said. “We condemn all attacks on civilians and humanitarian workers.”

The Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab have been waging an insurgency against the internationally backed federal government in Somalia for more than 15 years and have often targeted hotels, which tend to host high-ranking Somali and foreign officials.

The latest assault, for which Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility, began just before 8:00 pm on Friday (1700 GMT) when seven attackers stormed the Pearl Beach hotel, a popular spot at Lido Beach along Mogadishu’s coastline. It ended at around 2:00 am, police said, after a fierce gunfight between security forces and the militants, all of whom were killed during the battle. The attack at Lido beach underscored the endemic security problems in the Horn of Africa country as it struggles to emerge from decades of conflict and natural disasters. AFP

IS Jihadists kill 3 Iraqi soldiers

THREE Iraqi soldiers were killed and four others wounded Sunday in a pre-dawn attack in the country’s north blamed on the Islamic State group, a military official said.

The assailants used automatic weapons in the attack on their barracks in Wadi alNaft, about 25 kilometers (15 miles) west of the city of Kirkuk, the official said on condition of anonymity.

“Three soldiers, including two officers, were killed, and four other soldiers were wounded,” the official told AFP. There was no immediate claim of responsibility.

The attack occurred in an area disputed between Iraq’s federal government, which holds Kirkuk, and the country’s autonomous northern region of Kurdistan.

IS jihadists seized swathes of Iraq and neighboring Syria in 2014, declaring a “caliphate” which they ruled with brutality before their defeat in late 2017 by Iraqi forces backed by a US-led military coalition.

Despite the setbacks, the extremist group can still call on an underground network of fighters to carry out attacks on both sides of the porous border, the United Nations says.

In April, the international coalition set up to fight the Sunni Muslim extremists said there had been a reduction in IS attacks in both Iraq and Syria.

In March, a senior Iraqi military official said IS had between 400 and 500 active fighters in the Shiite-majority country. AFP

MAN DOWN. A member of the Grenadier Guards faints during the Colonel’s Review at Horse Guards Parade in London on June 10, 2023 ahead of The King’s Birthday Parade. The Colonel’s Review is the nal evaluation of the parade before the Trooping of the Color on June 17. AFP

NOT FORGOTTEN. File photo shows indigenous women protesting on International Women’s Day in Lima, Peru on March 08, 2023. More than 3,400 women were reported missing in Peru between January and April this year. AFP

Former US President and 2024 Presidential hopeful Donald Trump

DOF: Past ‘inaction’ leads to big toll hike

By Julito G. Rada

FINANCE Secretary Benjamin Diokno blamed over the weekend the “inaction” of previous administrations for the piled-up toll increases at the North Luzon Expressway.

“The NLEX rate increase is for staggered implementation—not a one-time implementation. It is staggered over several years,” Diokno said in a statement.

“The increase piled up because of the inaction of previous administrations.

The Ferdinand Marcos Jr. administration had to act on petitions from 2010,”

Analysts expect market to trade sideways, wait for Fed decision

By Jenniffer B. Austria

SHARE prices are expected to trade

sideways this week as investors focus on developments overseas, particularly the upcoming United States Federal Reserve’s policy meeting and inflation rate release.

Local financial markets will be closed Monday to commemorate the country’s Independence Day.

Analysts said the US May inflation should drive market sentiments this week as this would provide a huge clue on the Fed’s next policy action.

Analysts said investors were anticipating the Fed to hold rates steady at its June 13 to 14 meeting if US headline inflation rate in May decelerated. This bolsters investors’ expectations that the Fed would likely pause interest rate hikes.

“A further rise in their policy rate is seen to weigh on the market, while a pause in tightening may boost sentiment. For cues on the Federal Reserve’s move, investors are also expected to watch out for the US’ upcoming May inflation report,” Philstocks Financial Inc. senior research analyst Japheth Tantiangco said.

The Fed has raised interest rates 10 times since last year to curb the stubbornly-high inflation.

Online brokerage firm 2TradeAsia. com said the continued easing of the Philippines’ own inflation rate and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ recent move to cut the reserve requirement ratio were strengthening investors’ expectations that local interest rates would again remain unchanged.

“Both moves should provide tailwinds to macro fundamentals, as they wild help offset the impact of previous rate cuts,” 2TradeAsia.com said.

PSE INDEX CLOSING

Diokno said. Diokno said the petitions were carefully studied and analyzed and approved objectively and fairly.

“[The] government needs to perform its contractual obligations under the STOAs [supplemental toll operation agreements]. We’re promoting PPPs

[public-private partnerships]. And the government will have no credibility as a partner if it does not comply with its contractual obligations under past PPP contracts,” Diokno said.

Motorists will have to pay higher toll at the North Luzon Expressway starting June 15. NLEX Corp., which manages the highway, said an additional P7 would be collected in the open system, while P0.36 per kilometer would be collected in the closed system. The Toll Regulatory Board approved the adjustments.

Under the new toll matrix, an additional fee of P7 would be charged

against Class 1 vehicles, P17 for Class 2 vehicles and P19 for Class 3 vehicles.

Those traveling NLEX between Metro Manila and Mabalacat City will pay an additional P33 for Class 1, P81 for Class 2 and P98 for Class 3 vehicles.

The open system covers the cities of Navotas, Valenzuela and Caloocan in Metro Manila and Meycauayan and Marilao in Bulacan.

The closed system covers the portion between Bocaue, Bulacan and Sta. Ines, Mabalacat City, Pampanga, including Subic-Tipo.

NLEX Corp. said the new rates were part of the authorized periodic adjust-

ments due 2012, 2014, 2018 and 2020.

This year’s adjustment is the fourth and last tranche of the 2012 and 2014 adjustments.

NLEX Corp. said it would continue to honor the discount given to public utility jeepneys under the NLEX Pass-ada and Tsuper Card programs.

NLEX Corp. is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investment Corp.-led Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. MPIC in March expressed interest in acquiring the government’s 3.46-percent stake in NLEX Corp., the operator of NLEX and Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway.

IN BRIEF

Ayala Land trims bond offer to P19b from P22b PROPERTY developer Ayala Land Inc. reduced the size of its planned bond offering to P19 billion from an initial target of P22 billion, according to the company’s latest filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

ALI said the bond offering would have a base offer of P14 billion, plus an oversubscription option for another P5 billion with five- and 10-year maturities.

The base offer will be comprised of P4.75 billion to be issued as the fourth and final tranche under ALI’s 2021 bond registration program, while the remaining P12.25 billion and P5 billion oversubscription option will be issued under its newly-approved 2023 bond shelf-registration program worth P50 billion.

The property firm originally planned to issue P17 billion worth of bonds with an oversubscription of up to P5 billion.

ALI also reported that it set the interest rates for its peso-denominated fixed-rate bonds. The Series A due in 2028 will carry a fixed interest rate of 6.0253 percent per annum, while the Series B due will have a fixed interest rate of 6.2948 percent per annum. The offer period will be from June 14 to 20.

Jenniffer B. Austria

Lalamove announces transfer of hub to PITX

BRIGHTER FUTURE. One Meralco Foundation energizes an off-grid public school on Liwagao Island, Antique which caters to over 100 students. The energization of off-grid public schools is among the initiatives of OMF under its community electrification program which also covers households, rural health centers, water access and agricultural and livelihood programs. The project involves a 1-kilowatt peak solar photovoltaic system for the Lim Elementary School, which can be reached via a four-hour boat ride from mainland Antique.

Maynilad calibrates systems to prepare for El Niño

By Othel V. Campos

MAYNILAD Water Services Inc. said

it is calibrating its operational systems in response to a memorandum issued by the Office of the President to address the looming El Niño dry spell.

The memo signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin required the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System, concessionaires Maynilad and Manila Water Company, the National Water Resources Board and all local water utilities administration to submit a detailed month-

PH-ISRAEL TIEUP.

The Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. and the Israel Export and International Cooperation Institute sign a memorandum of understanding to pursue mutual interest in trade and economic development to help improve bilateral trade worth about $534 million in goods last year. Signing the MOA during the Israel-Philippines Business Forum on June 5 at New World Hotel in Makati City are PhilExport president Dr. Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. (seated, left) and IEICI deputy director general Sabine Segal (seated, right). With them are (standing, from left) National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, Minister of Foreign Affairs for the State of Israel Eli Cohen and Ambassador Yael Ravia-Zadok.

ly report on water supply and demand to the Water Regulatory Management Office. Water agencies were also asked to instantly report aberrations in water supply, especially if there is a sudden spike in demand and a supply deficit. They were also encouraged to implement water conservation measures, such as but not limited to non-revenue water management and water pressure management. The memo asked all water-related projects to expedite completion to reduce non-revenue water and upgrade

water distribution pipes. Local government units were encouraged to process the requests of water service providers for waterworks within a reasonable period of time.

The WRMO, a newly-formed agency under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, overseas the implementation of strategies towards water conservation, monitor compliance of government agencies and instrumentalities with the aforementioned water conservation measures, and provide quarterly updates to the Office of the President.

2 startups team up to revolutionize delivery, e-commerce

By Darwin G. Amojelar

TWO Filipino start-ups forged a strategic partnership to revolutionize the local e-commerce and delivery service in the country.

TaiwanDollar0.0326211.8316

The partnership between Dingdong and RiderKo aims to provide a 100-percent Filipino-powered all-in-one platform that offers easy and convenient transactions for customers and business merchants to expand the local delivery service industry. Dingdong, a last-mile delivery fulfillment company with hands-on delivery solutions, offers fully-assisted

booking and stationed rider services for customers and merchant partners. The firm advocates to professionalize the delivery service industry. Meanwhile, RiderKo, a 100-percent Filipino-developed mobile application that offers on-demand food and door-todoor delivery services, prides itself on nurturing local tech talents to provide global solutions. Together, the two startups are set to combine their wealth of expertise, talent and innovation in the tech and delivery sectors to create a holistic e-commerce and delivery experience to benefit partner businesses and app users.

LALAMOVE, one of the country’s leading ondemand delivery platforms, will transfer its multimodal hub to the Paranaque Integrated Terminal Exchange in July to provide better accessibility for its network of partner drivers and strengthen its intra- and inter-city delivery capabilities.

“Transferring to PITX is pivotal for Lalamove. It will help materialize our vision to expand our delivery fleet especially our line of trucks while enjoying the connectivity that PITX offers in Luzon and interisland transportation and shipping,” Lalamove Philippines managing director Djon Nacario said.

“This is aligned with our mission to continuously empower the communities we serve - our loyal users, businesses of all sizes, and partner drivers,” he said.

Nacario said Lalamove is geared toward the right direction in providing better access to its network of partner drivers in the entirety of Luzon.

“We warmly welcome Lalamove to PITX, which is committed to providing mobility solutions for both passengers and goods. On top of seamless transport connections, we are now helping deliver seamless logistics for one of the country’s top lastmile delivery providers,” MWM Terminals Inc. president Jaime Raphael Feliciano said. Darwin G. Amojelar

ERC set to release final auction rates next week

THE Energy Regulatory Commission said it will release the final reserve price for the Green Energy Auction Program 2 next week.

ERC chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta said they aimed to release the GEA Reserve price by Wednesday or Thursday so that bidders could still consider the rates in the preparation for the bids on June 19.

Dimalanta said the new rates would vary depending on the feedback gathered in the public consultations but assured that the agency will act faithfully according to its mandate.

“We think there is a space wherein these interests align—so, the mindset-shift comes in terms of searching for that space of alignment rather than simply balancing the interests which implies that one interest is favored over the other,” Dimalanta said when asked how the regulator would balance the interest of the consumers and the power generators.

The partnership comes at an opportune time to provide more options for Filipino consumers and businesses as demand for delivery services continues to grow. The two startups believe that not only is it important to expand the industry, but also to ensure that it caters to the unique needs and requirements of the local market.

“More than a partnership, we share the same vision and a mutual trust and respect for each other, our riders, our merchants, and our stakeholders,” Dingdong founder and chairman Dingdong Dantes said.

Quezon facility to start ammonia co-fired power generation within the year

By Alena

Mae S. Flores

QUEZON Power (Philippines) Ltd. Co. will start co-firing its 460-megawatt coal-fired power plant in Mauban, Quezon with ammonia by the end of the year, the Department of Energy said over the weekend.

“I know for a fact that Quezon Power is planning to experiment with 20-percent co-firing by the end of the year,” DOE undersecretary Rowena Guevara said in a recent forum.

The agency is looking at ammonia

co-fired

co-firing for coal plants to bring down carbon dioxide emissions.

Electricity Generating Public Company Ltd. of Thailand, Quezon Power and Doosan Enerbility Co. Ltd signed a memorandum of understanding in January to study the feasibility of ammonia co-fired power generation at the Quezon power plant.

The MOU will support EGCO Group’s strategic plan to reduce its carbon dioxide emission intensity by 10 percent by 2030. EGCO Group’s “Cleaner, Smarter and

Stronger to Drive Sustainable Growth” business direction aims to promote sustainable growth over the long term for its businesses in the region including Quezon Power with an ultimate goal for EGCO Group of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The Power for People Coalition and local stakeholders, however, opposed ammonia co-fired generation at the coal plant, saying it would only lead to prolonging and exacerbating woes on high electricity costs and pollution from the facility.

The groups said ammonia is increasingly being promoted by proponents in the region as a way of lowering the carbon footprint of combustion in coal power generation facilities.

“Retrofitting the plant to accommodate co-firing, ammonia fuel production, transport and other required processes will only add more costs and promote the continued use of coal to sell power that consumers simply can no longer afford,” said Gerry Arances, convenor of P4P.

Manila Standard TODAY

ERC recently completed the public consultations for Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao on the preliminary GEAR 2. Alena Mae S. Flores

World not on track to reach renewable energy objective

THE world is not on track to meet Sustainable Development Goal 7, or the agenda that seeks to ensure access to affordable, reliable energy for all, a new report from the UN and partners said last week.

An energy progress report from the International Energy Agency (IEA), the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the UN Statistics Division (UNSD), the World Bank and the World Health Organization (WHO) warned that current efforts were not enough to achieve the SDG 7 on time.

The report noted some progress on some elements of the drive to reach SDG 7, like the increased rate of using renewables in the power sector, but said progress was insufficient to reach the targets set for the 2030 deadline.

SDG 7 aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy. The goal includes

reaching universal access to electricity and clean cooking, doubling historic levels of efficiency improvements, and substantially increasing the share of renewables in the global energy mix, said the report authors.

Reaching the goal will have a deep and positive impact on people’s health and well-being, helping to protect them from environmental and social risks such as air pollution, and expanding access to primary health care and services.

The global energy crisis, exacerbated by the war in Ukraine, is expected to stimulate the deployment of renewables and improve energy efficiency, as some governments boost investment.

However, IRENA estimates show

that international public financial flows in support of clean energy in low and middle-income countries have been decreasing since before the COVID-19 pandemic and funding is limited to a small number of countries.

To meet SDG 7 targets, the report said it was necessary to structurally reform international public finance and define new opportunities to unlock investments.

The report also said mounting debt and rising energy prices are worsening the outlook for reaching universal access to clean cooking and electricity.

Current projections estimate that 1.9 billion people will be without clean cooking facilities, and 660 million without electricity access in 2030 if the status quo continues.

These gaps will negatively impact the health of our most vulnerable populations and accelerate climate change, says the report.

According to WHO, 3.2 million people die each year from illness caused by the use of polluting fuels and technologies,

Negros Island inaugurates 1st Earth Market in Silay City

NEGROS Island recently inaugurated the country’s first Slow Food Earth Market in Silay City, becoming the 90th worldwide that aims to give people access to local supply chain products in honor of the environment and workers’ rights.

The Negros Island Slow Food Earth Market is located along the highway in Silay City, Negros Occidental, just across from the city’s Shell gas station.

The idea to create an Earth Market in Negros Island emerged in March 2021, when a pop-up Earth Market was held at Casa A. Gamboa. The Negros Island Earth Market was the initiative of the Slow Food Community Promoting and Preserving Traditional Food of Negros Island group.

which increase exposure to toxic levels of household air pollution.

“We must protect the next generation by acting now. Investing in clean and renewable solutions to support universal energy access is how we can make real change. Clean cooking technologies in homes and reliable electricity in healthcare facilities, can play a crucial role in protecting the health of our most vulnerable populations,” said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Stefan Schweinfest, of the UN Statistics Division, said despite a recent slowdown in electrification figures, the number of people without electricity almost halved over the past decade, from 1.1 billion, in 2010 down to 675 million in 2021.

“Nonetheless, additional efforts and measures must urgently be put in place to ensure that the poorest and hardestto-reach people are not left behind. To reach universal access by 2030, the development community must scale up clean energy investments and policy support.” UN News

Rep. Francisco Benitez of the third district of Negros Occidental and the local office of the Department of Agriculture visited the market and were impressed by their findings. Many farmers were delighted at being able to access the market and find new customers for their products.

Since its inception, the development process has been coordinated in collaboration with Silay City, the office of the Provincial Governor and the Provincial Tourism office the Negros Department of Agriculture and the Department of Tourism Region 6. “Promoting and preserving our traditional food is of the utmost importance if we are to cultivate and continue Filipino culture to our future generations. We believe that the best way to do this is to talk to our main protagonists—the small farmers,” said Reena Gamboa, a spokesperson for the Slow Food Community of Negros.

“It’s through them that we can all learn what is endemic to our community, and the Earth Market will allow the community to deal straight with the farmers and to pay them the fair price they’re due. By doing so, we valorize our local food sources and appreciate its importance—not only for our physical health but also for our Filipino soul,” she said.

FREEDOM. FUTURE. HISTORY.

125 years of Philippine independence

By Patricia taculao

JUNE 12 marks the 125th year of Philippines independence, a testament to how Filipinos valiantly fought for democracy and recognition from oppressors throughout the centuries.

In celebration of the annual nationwide event, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) is holding a month-long festivity with the central theme, “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan. (Freedom. Future. History.)”

Some activities in line with Independence Day include concerts, parades, ceremonies, and job fairs across the country from June 11 to 30.

Advocating freedom and a better future

The freedom Filipinos enjoy today is a result of the courage of earlier generations. And many organizations and government agencies organized ventures to preserve the privileges of independence.

For instance, the NHCP will also launch the #BatangMalaya campaign on Independence Day to create a safe space for Filipino children and help push forward a child labor-free country, coinciding with the International Labor Organization’s 2023 World Day Against Child Labour.

Moreover, in partnership with the NHCP, the Department of Labor and Employment is hosting the Kalayaan Job Fair 2023 nationwide on June 12.

Other cultural organizations and educational discussions will also highlight the anniversary of Philippine Independence. An example is the bike initiative titled “Lakbay Aral, Rutang Makabayan 2023: Bike Ride para sa Kalayaan, Kapayapaan, at Katarungan” from BAYAN at the University of the Philippines Diliman Oblation in Quezon City.

It will stroll through different historical sites in Quezon City, San Juan, and Manila, allowing participants to understand the history of heroes, who fought for freedom and democracy. The route will end at Liwasang Bonifacio, Manila.

Those feeling more festive can partake in the Human Rights and People Empowerment to the “MiyerKULET! Freedom Extravaganza” every Wednesday and Friday, 6 p.m., from June to July, at the Rooftop of Fil Garcia Tower, Kalayaan Avenue, in Quezon City. The event features films, live performances, and discussions.

Attracting the youth to participate in the annual celebration is also a primary goal among groups and organizations to continue the Philippines’ appreciation of the independence Filipinos have enjoyed and continued to do so for centuries.

Katribu Youth, in collaboration with Katribu PUP and Katribu University Belt, invites the public to an educational discussion titled “YARN: Paghabi ng Isyu at Kwento ng Paglaban ng Pambansang Minortya,”on June 13, Wednesday, at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Besides local organizations and government agencies, the Philippine Embassy of Israel is joining the celebrations with a cultural festival dubbed “Halina sa Hayarkon: Magsama-sama sa Kalayaan.” The event will feature songs and cultural dances by the Filipino community in the Middle East on Saturday, June 17, at the Sky Town,

HaYarkon Park, in Tel Aviv.

Understanding history

The Philippines declared independence from Spain in 1898. Along with the many heroic efforts to free the country from colonization during earlier years, the move ignited a fire among local patriots to further their efforts in giving Filipinos the freedom they deserve.

Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the Philippines, issued a decree on June 5, 1898, proclaiming June 12 of the same year as Independence Day. The Philippine flag was officially unfurled for the first time, while the Nacional Filipina played at his house, then known as Cavite El Viejo.

Around 190 municipal presidents from the 16 provinces controlled by the revolutionary army promulgated the proclamation in Bacoor, Cavite on August 1, 1898. The Malolos Congress officially

ratified it on September 29, 1898.

However, the Philippines failed to win global recognition for its independence, especially from the United States of America and Spain. Eventually, the Spanish government ceded the Philippines to the United States via the 1898 Treaty of Paris. The Philippine Revolutionary Government didn’t heed the treaty, and disagreements from both sides became the Philippine-American war. Despite the setback, early Filipinos didn’t stop fighting for their freedom.

Finally earning recognition

After much resistance from Filipino troops, the United States formally recognized the independence of the Republic of the Philippines. It was the culmination of the process that began in 1916 when the Jones Law pledged the

recognition of Philippine Independence and the Philippine Independence Act of 1934, which provided a 10-year transitional government to prepare the country.

Manuel Roxas commemorated the momentous event by retaking his oath as President of the Philippines. By July 4, 1946, the United States formally recognized the independence of the Republic of the Philippines. At first, the celebration was held on the fourth of July, coinciding with the United States’ own Independence Day.

By 1962, the late President Diosdado Macapagal issued Proclamation No. 28, which effectively moved the date of Philippine Independence from the American date to June 12, the initial date Aguinaldo proclaimed independence from Spain.

Macapagal, during his proclamation, said that “the establishment of the Philippine Republic by the

Revolutionary Government under General Emilio Aguinaldo on June 12, 1898, marked our people’s declaration and exercise of their right to self-determination, liberty, and independence,” further solidifying why the date holds much relevance to Filipinos and their sense of self.

Eventually, Macapagal adopted the perspective of historians and many political leaders about how June 12 was the day the nation was founded, and July 4, as the restoration of the independence many fought for in the early years. Freedom. Future. History. These are the three primary values emphasized in the 125th anniversary of Philippine Independence. Modern-day Filipinos enjoy the liberty they have today because of the valiant efforts of the patriots that came before them. It’s these privileges that allow them to progress toward the future.

Yet what’s most relevant with the continuous celebration of Philippine Independence is that people should continue appreciating what June 12 means to the country, especially to future generations, who will continue to uphold nationalism. After all, looking back on history is how they can truly appreciate what they have in the present and for years to come.

So here’s to 125 years of Philippine Independence and more to come.

Tennis legend

PARIS—Iga Swiatek vowed to keep the lid on her Grand Slam expectations despite tennis legend Chris Evert backing her to go on and win “at least 10 French Opens”.

World number one Swiatek claimed her third Roland Garros title and fourth career major, all in the last three years, with a thrilling 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 victory over Karolina Muchova on Saturday.

“She’s going to be in for the long haul, and I told her - you’ve won three French Opens, I won seven. You’re only 22, you’re going to go past that. You can go to eight, nine, 10,” 18-time major winner Evert said after presenting the Suzanne Lenglen trophy to the 22-year-old Pole.

However, Swiatek, after adding 2023 to her title triumphs in Paris in 2020 and 2022, was refusing to get ahead of herself.

“I’m not really looking that far. I don’t know what I’m capable of,” she said.

“I will work day by day to play the best game possible and to develop as a player. I’m not setting like any crazy records or goals for myself. I know that keeping it cool is the best way to do it for me.”

Saturday’s win meant she became the first woman to win back-to-back French Opens since four-time champion Justine Henin completed a hat-trick in 2007.

Evert, a seven-time champion at Roland Garros, believes that Swiatek already possesses the trophy winning appetite of the game’s legends who preceded her.

‘Hits like a man’

“I was just complimenting her on how she played with her back to the wall, and only champions can play like that when they are down,” Evert told Eurosport, adding that Swiatek “hits the ball like a man”.

“There are players that are really hungry—Monica Seles, Steffi Graf, myself and Martina Navratilova, and I think Iga is the same type of person.”

Swiatek insisted she is not going to encourage speculation of a new era which sees her competing with Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina, the Wimbledon winner, for Slams over the next decade.

However, a void does exist following the retirements of Serena Williams and Ashleigh Barty while fellow four-time Slam champion Naomi Osaka is out of the sport expecting her first child.

“I don’t really analyse that, because I know that this is something that kind of you guys created, and I understand that fans love that.

“I’m trying to just be focused on my work. And for me, there is no reason to do that. I’m kind of just focused on myself and I don’t care about the other two players.”

Saturday’s final was a two-hour 46-minute rollercoaster in which Swiatek coasted to a set and 3-0 lead before Muchova again dug deep into her playbook of tennis variety to push herself closer to what would have been one of the sport’s greatest comebacks.

In her semi-final win over world number two Sabalenka, she had been 5-2 down in the decider and saved a match point.

On Saturday, the 26-year-old levelled the match and carved out breaks for 2-0 and 4-3 leads in the final set before Swiatek hit back, taking the next three games to secure the title. AFP

PFF chief expects Filipinas to ‘do well’

EXPERIENCE gained over the last two years will help the Filipinas pull through in their first game against the New Zealand Football Ferns in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Philippine Football Federation president Mariano Araneta said this as the Filipinas plunge into the final phase of their preparations with a month-long training camp in Sydney, Australia.

“Hopefully, we get a point against them. We are not far behind,” said Araneta, as the Filipinas brace for action against the Fernas on July 25 in Dunedin.

Coach Alen Stajcic, on Saturday, named 29 players to his provisional squad.

Acuna breaks own record in Asiad shooting qualifier

By Peter Atencio

AMPARO Teresa Acuna achieved another milestone on her 26th birthday on Saturday during the fi nal leg of the Asian Games’ Qualifying season at the Philippine Marine Shooting Range in Taguig.

Acuna once again set another record when she surpassed the qualifying standard for the Hangzhou Asian Games, by breaking the Philippine mark she set last April at 583 points in the 50-meter rifle 3-position event.

Officials of the Philippine National Shooting Association confirmed Acuna’s feat, which was a point ahead of the previous mark she made at 582 during the tryouts for the national team two months ago.

“Into the habit of breaking rec ords, Amparo set, yet again another personal best and surpassed the

Asian games’ criteria and sealed her place as our top rifle shooter today in the last leg of the Asian Games Qualifying season,” said Philippine National Shoo ting Association secretary general Iryne Garcia in a statement on the PNSA’s official page.

Acuna is not only preparing to see action in the Asiad, she is also set to join a series of qualifiers for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

So far, her Olympic ranking has moved to 136 following her participation in the recent World Cup in Baku, Azerbaijan last month.

“Yes! I qualified twice so I’m really locked in already,” said Acuna in an interview with the Manila Standard.

She is also seeking qualification in the 10-meter women’s air rifle event with her Olympic Qualification ranking of 153.

Joining Acuna in the quest for a slot to the Paris Olympiad is Franchette Qu iroz, who is at no. 138 in the women’s 10-meter air pistol action.

The pre-World Cup camp set at the Western Sydney Wanderers Complex, began Saturday.

Araneta recalled that the Filipinas managed to score a win over the Ferns, 2-1, in a friendly played in the United States in September last year.

“Hopefully, with the experience that they have, they will do well,” said Araneta.

Co-captains Hali Long and Tahnai Annis are among the players listed.

The roster will be cut to 23 within the month, in time for the Filipinas’ coming games.

Last week, the squad got a lift when the Filipinas’ FIFA world ranking jumped from No. 49 to No. 46.

The ranking was a historic achievement as the Filipinas were at no. 53 at the end of last year.

Among the players in the list are goalkeepers Kiara Fontanilla, Kaiya Jota, Olivia McDaniel and Inna Palacios.

Written as defenders are Maya Alcantara, Alicia Barker, Angela Beard, Reina Bonta, Malea Cesar, Jessika Cowart, Sofia Harrison, Hali Long and Dominique Randle.

The midfielders are Tahnai Annis, Ryley Bugay, Anicka Castañeda, Sara Eggesvik, Kaya Hawkinso, Eva Madarang, Jessica Miclat, Isabela Pasion, Quinley Quezada and Jaclyn Sawicki.

The forwards are Sarina Bolden, Isabella Flanigan, Carleigh Frilles, Katrina Guillou, Chandler McDaniel and Meryll Serrano. Peter Atencio

Skit gone wrong: McGregor KOs Heat mascot

MIAMI—The Miami Heat’s team mascot needed medical treatment after a staged ‘fight’ with former UFC mixed martial arts champion Conor McGregor.

The Irishman took to the court with a Heat compere during a timeout during game four of the NBA Finals against the Denver Nuggets for a pre-planned promotional spot.

McGregor was roundly booed by the Heat crowd as he promoted his product and was then approached by the Heat mascot ‘Burnie’ in a costume and boxing gloves.

The fighter punched the mascot to the ground and staff mocked trying to bring him back to consciousness and dragged ‘Burnie’ off court.

However, the person inside the costume was then taken to a local emergency room and released the same evening afer receiving pain medication, according to The Athletic and the Miami Herald.

The product McGregor has been promoting was a pain relief spray.

The Heat lost the game 108-95 and are 3-1 down in the bestof-seven final series. AFP

Alcala, Santiago triumph in the rain

SUBIC—It rained and rained but the downpour hardly stopped nor cooled down the fearless triathletes, who swam, biked and ran the IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay with great resolve in exacting conditions here on Sunday. John Dedeus Alcala withstood the strong waves and windy conditions in the bike then pushed himself with all the strength he could muster in the closing run stage to pound out the win in 4:43:45 while Ines Santiago dominated the opening swim and cruised to victory in 5:35:59 in her side of the 1.9km swim, 90km bike and 21km run race at the Subic Bay Boardwalk. With a pack of bidders from 33 countries still disputing the centerpiece Century Tuna IRONMAN Philippines crowns at press time, Alcala and Santiago took the spotlight in the half-triathlon, including $1,000 each, in damp and cold conditions.

Alcala put up the kind of finish he flaunted in stealing the show—but in stifling heat (4:32:20)—in the inaugural IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa in Palawan last November, racing at his own pace in the swim (39:19) and bike (2:33:21) before pouring it out with a best 1:27:05 clocking in the run leg.

Alcala barely held off young Irienold Reig, Jr., who splashed his way to the early lead in 0:31:27 (swim), held sway with a 2:40:07 clocking in bike but failed to match Alcala’s strong finish and big strides, finishing in 1:28:29 for an overall time of 4:44:46.

“It was challenging, especially in the swim and bike because the waves were really rough and when I was on the bike, it was windy and I had to grip on my dropbars so I won’t be affected. But when it was my turn to run, it was okay. I mean, this really couldn’t be called the IRONMAN if isn’t challenging,” said Alcala.

“The turning point I think was on the last 15k. There was someone behind me the whole time and I gave it my all in the last 1k even if I collapsed at the finish,” he added.

The tough swim conditions actually forced the withdrawal of some bidders but Alcala and the rest endured and survived one of the toughest tests in endurance racing.

“I always give my best, to show my family, my sponsors that I gave it my all because what they have contributed is what keeps me going. And this is for my future as well,” said Alcala.

August Benedicto, winner of the IRONMAN 70.3 Cebu last year, wound up third in 4:48:28 with leg clockings of 39:02 (swim)-2:30:40 (bike)-1:34:21 (run), while Kenneth Bonda and Satar Salem took the next two spots in 4:48:33 (37:59-2:33:261:32:39) and 4:55:33 (34:03-2:32:151:42:37), respectively.

Evert: Swiatek can go for ‘10 French Opens’

Poland’s Iga Swiatek poses with the trophy Suzanne Lenglen following her victory over Czech Republic’s Karolina Muchova during their women’s singles nal match of the Roland-Garros Open tennis tournament at the Court Philippe-Chatrier in Paris. AFP

Amparo Teresa Acuna

Connor McGregor and Mascot Burnie of the Miami Heat perform during halftime against the Denver Nuggets during Game 4 of the 2023 NBA Finals. AFP

John Dedeus Alcala celebrates at the nish line.

GOOD chemistry is often achieved through a combi nation of factors such as talent, understanding of the characters, shared ex periences, trust, and effective direction.

In GMA’s latest offering, LUV IS: Love at First Read, premiering today at 5:40, lead stars Mavy Legaspi and Ky line Alcantara exhibit intangible con nection and rapport on screen.

"They work so comfortably with each other. On and off camera, they cre ate excitement. Sometimes you don't even know if it's real or if they are still in character," said series director Marc Sicat dela Cruz about Mavy and Kyline's close relationship on set.

Mavy Kyline create intangible connection

on TV screen

ing the series’ media conference.

LUV IS: Love at First Read follows Kudos (Mavy), a secret romantic searching for the perfect girl. He finds a diary and believes that the owner of it, Abby (Kyline), is the one for him. However, he also meets Angelica, a jaded girl who distrusts men and has no interest in love. They clash at first but as they get to know one another, their feelings begin to grow.

Sicat believes that the two lead stars share a genuine connection and rapport and that they create an authentic and compelling dynamic between their characters, making their interactions more believable and engaging for the audience.

“Their chemistry brings a unique magic to the screen, and it enhances the overall story because of their close connection,” Sicat went on.

LUV IS: Love at First Read is based on the hit Wattpad webnovel of the same name by author Chixnita. The story has garnered over 23 million views on Wattpad.

"I am pleased with how the adaptation turned out. They made a few changes and additions, but I am in favor of them. It is a great honor to witness your creation being brought to life on television,” Chixnita told Manila Standard Entertainment dur-

The madness and mayhem of ‘AbeNida’

NO! The name on the title does not play tricks on you. This is not about the once cosmopolitan and glorious street that was in downtown Manila, Avenida. The madness and mayhem are courtesy of Abe and Nida, the protagonists given life by Allen Dizon and Katrina Halili, respectively, in the film with Ralston Jover as the screenplay writer. Louie Ignacio directs while BG Productions International bankrolls this motion picture.

The major reasons why everyone must embrace and watch AbeNida when it drops in cinemas are: it is a visual feast, a narrative that is simple yet compelling, and a master class in acting.

What makes it a visual feast is the cinematography by its director of photography, T.M. Malones. The play of light and dark reminds you of the movies from Reyna Films, created by the legendary cinematographer Rony Vitug, and the hues, shadows, and illumination that are evident in a Fernando Amorsolo oil painting. The dark shots heighten the scenes and present the emotions of the characters at their most frightening and maddening. The shots that show the bucolic charms and wonders of the location are breathtaking and give a light and loving feel to what happens on screen.

Kudos to screenplay writer Ralston Jover for a straightforward yet compelling narrative. Creating the character of Abe, who happens to be an admired and respected local sculptor, and his experiences with various degrees of confusion and pain, brought about by Nida, his wife who left him. All of these we witness, along with the crumbling of Abe’s sanity and how it consumes his being. Devoid of storytelling excesses, its simplicity provides the cadence and rhythm, push and pull, and distance and togetherness of the main protagonists. Thanks to the astute and sensitive di-

rection of Louie Ignacio, there is a master class in acting, specifically Allen Dizon who delivers his most superb performance to date. His cinematic orbs speak volumes, his madness is subtle yet felt, stirring the emotions. He is the main reason why AbeNida becomes an unforgettable cinematic experience. He is that good!

Adding more nuance and texture to the film is the impressive performance of Leandro Baldemor, who plays the role of Abe's good friend/bad friend. He comes off as loud most of the time because he is not just a bully to Abe, but a buffoon who is even crazier and dangerous.

Katrina Halili shines like a diamond, portraying two polar opposite characters. She totally wows as Cecille, the flirtatious masseuse with a heart of gold, and as Nida, the wife who scorched Abe's heart and destroyed his sanity.

AbeNida is Louie Ignacio's love letter to the artist and the passion that consumes them, the whys of their artistic expression, and the muses that break or make them present on the silver screen with subtlety, grace, and restraint, No wonder it hits the viewers heart. And yes, this is his true cinematic obra maestra.

Now, Kudos is torn between Angelica and Abby – not knowing that they are actually one and the same.

Joining the ensemble cast are Therese Malvar as Abigail, the hopeless romantic best friend of Angelica; Mariel Pamintuan as Sandy, Angelica's vain and annoying classmate who bullies her; Pam Prinster as Hazel, an old friend and secret admirer of Kudos; Bruce Roeland as Risk, a certified playboy and Kudos' cousin; Josh Ford as Train, Kudos' close friend and teammate in varsity; Larkin Castor as Shield, the nerdy younger brother of Risk; Marco Masa as Dale, the loving brother of Angelica; and Vito and Kiel Gueco as Psalm and Philemon, the mysterious twin brothers and Kudos' cousins.

Adding excitement to this feel-good series are seasoned artists Jackie Lou

Blanco as Truly, a simple housewife to Hector and a caring mother to Kudos; Jestoni Alarcon as Hector, the outgoing father of Kudos; and Maricar de Mesa as Yumi, the doting mother of Angelica. The creative team behind this drama is composed of creative director Aloy Adlawan, content development consultant Ricky Lee, head writer Maria Regina M. Amigo and associate director Carlo Cannu

Maricar de Mesa joins the cast of the coming-of-age series

Viewers have made it a Saturday habit to tune in to 'Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile', garnering more than a million views across various digital platforms

Digital series ‘Ang Lalaki

sa Likod ng

Profile’ hits 1m views on YouTube

SINCE its premiere seven weeks ago, Puregold Channel’s Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile has accumulated more than a million views across its teasers and episodes – and spawned a ravenous fanbase around Bryce (Wilbert Ross) and Angge (Yukii Takahashi).

The digits say it all. Each Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile episode has garnered from 90,000 to 171,000 views; trailers have collectively reaped 160,000 to 186,000 views. These add up to 12.3 million views across Facebook and YouTube. To top it all, the #anglalakisalikodngprofile hashtag has had over 12 million views on TikTok. Goes to show that nothing trumps the power of relatable love stories, and the delightful dose of kilig they bring.

The release of each episode on Saturday nights has become a highly anticipated event for viewers who eagerly await the unfolding of the enthralling story.

Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile resonates with its audience by touching on both traditional Filipino values and modern concerns such as online dating. The beautiful storytelling – a delightful blend of humor, fun, and kilig – has sent viewers immersed in the lead characters’ struggles and joys, making them yearn for more.

In last Saturday’s episode, Angge and Bryce finally move from the digital platform to the real world.

Watch the series on Puregold’s official YouTube Channel.

Puregold Channel’s 'Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng

Profile' stars TikTok sensation Yukii Takahashi and Viva artist Wilbert Ross

‘Respect Local Artists’ trends on Twitter, sparks debates about song royalties

By Patricia Taculao

TWITTER netizens are abuzz following an episode of It’s Showtime where hosts Vice Ganda and Anne Curtis discussed the issue concerning song royalties of Pinoy pop group SB19 during the show.

It began when Vice asked the contestants what song they wanted to dance to, to which they replied with “Gento” by SB19. The comedian-host then dissuaded by saying it was no longer available since “Naningil na sila,” as Vice stated, before encouraging the participants to use his song, “Rampa,” instead.

Anne replied, “Talaga? May ganon pala? Hindi ba good promo ‘yun for the industry? Sayang.”

The episode caused a divide between SB19 and It’s Showtime fans, with the latter calling the P-pop group greedy. On the other hand, the Twitter trend came about after many individuals called out Vice and

Veteran actors Jackie Lou Blanco (left) and Jestoni Alarcon play pivotal roles in the series

Sparkle artists Mavy Legaspi and Kyline Alcantara lead the TV adaptation of the hit

Wattpad webnovel 'LUV IS: Love at First Read'

The members of P-pop boy group SB19

Katrina Halili and Allen Dizon play the roles of Nida and Abe, respectively, in the film 'AbeNida'

Filipino identity through local products

By Patricia taculao

THE abundance of natural resources in the Philippines has given birth to talented artisans, who create pieces worthy of international recognition. These products place the country on a platform that also highlights the nation’s identity.

Local governments and other private sector have long since encouraged Filipinos to support homegrown products in an effort to boost the economy, while sustaining the skills of those who work hard to create such items. Whether it’s food, trinkets, or woven items, something always symbolizes the Philippines’ identity in the global market.

For instance, tourists enjoy dried mangoes whenever they visit the Philippines. Preserving the treat by drying its meat and curing it with sugar make it more enticing and longerlasting for people to enjoy. Aside from this, other delectable products that are sweet and savory, like yema, otap and rosquillos, to name a few, also cater to consumers’ various preferences.

Besides food, local artisans also channel their efforts into making quality products from local materials.

One common resource is abaca, which is versatile enough to be made into items such as bags, fans, baskets, and more.

The Philippines is the world’s most significant provider of abaca fiber, supplying around 87.5 percent of the global demand. The world knows abaca as the world’s strongest natural fiber.

Since there has been a demand for eco-friendly products across the globe due to environmental problems, the Philippines has pioneered such goods. Who can ignore placemats, chairs, and other fixtures made from abaca fiber that continue to add a natural touch to any space in any home or establishment?

Other than the use of fibers to create household fixtures and accessories, another wellknown Filipino product is textiles used for clothing. Depending on the region, artisans use various materials to create

strong fabrics. But the one thing that make them stand out is the vibrant colors and patterns that tell of the long-standing traditions of provinces and ethnic groups.

For instance, weavers often use piña fabrics to create impressional Filipinianas that boast of traditional Philippine fashion, despite decades of trends that swept through society.

In the meantime, those looking for a more luxurious contribution from the Philippines can look no further than the glistening pearls harvested from its seas. Primarily found in the southern islands, Philippine pearls are a favorite among local artisans, who enjoy crafting pieces of art that people can wear on their bodies.

Speaking of the Philippine seas, artisans have also maximized the potential and beauty of the shells to create equally captivating pieces. While some use them to produce jewelry, others utilize them to construct trinkets, like how Capiz shells can be transformed into window panes, lighting fixtures, and more.

Throughout the years, the Philippines has seen brands and companies that grew from the grassroots or family businesses into well-known household names that continue to uphold the Filipino identity. Many local brands and products have come and gone over the years, but the Filipino identity remains steadfast for all to enjoy and distinguish.

SM Supermalls honors Super Pinoys this June

ONE of the most important events in Philippine history is the declaration of our independence as a nation. As we inched closer to Independence Day, Filipinos have already started to commemorate the heroism of every Super Pinoy who fought mightily for our freedom. In celebration of the Philippines’ 125th Independence Day, SM Supermalls will be holding major events and activities to keep the Super Pinoy spirit alive and burning starting on May 28.

Flag Raising Ceremonies

SM malls across the country will be simultaneously holding flag-raising ceremonies during National Flag Day on May 28 and Independence Day on June 12, respectively. Participants are encouraged to wear the colors of the Philippine flag which signify truth, patriotism, and valor. After the ceremony, a short program will follow featuring Filipino modern pop music. Check your favorite mall’s Facebook page for schedules and venues.

Score the best deals and treats

From June 1 to 12, a sumptuous Pinoy food trip will welcome shoppers in SM malls. Enjoy numerous food promos and dining deals in indoor and al fresco dining spots decked in Filipiniana. After a hearty meal, shop ‘til you drop as the Super Pinoy Deals will give you the best offerings at SM. Whether you shop in-mall or online via the SM Malls Online and SM Deals apps, you can score amazing promos on the latest tech, gadgets, and fashion.

But wait, there’s more. From June 9 to 12, SM unleashes the best deals for all Super Pinoys, with the Super Pinoy Independence weekend sale!

Celebrate Pinoy Pride on IG

As you cap off the Independence Day festivities, don’t forget to check out the Super Pinoy Photo Spots. Tons of creative and fun photo spots will be showcased, plus Philippine Pop (P-Pop) music will be blasted through the mall speakers. Take photos, snap reels, and other creative content in these spots and tag us @SMSupermalls so we can feature

you on social media.

This June, SM Supermalls will keep freedom, future, and history alive with all these Independence Day activities. Make sure you visit an SM mall near you to celebrate being a Super Pinoy in all ways possible.

For more information, check out www.smsupermalls.com or follow @ smsupermalls on all social media platforms.