Manila Standard - 2023 July 9 - Sunday

GOV’T RESUMES ARMED FORCES MODERNIZATION

PRESIDENT MARCOS WANTS MILITARY TO CATCH UP, BE BACK ON TRACK IN 2 YRS AMID SECURITY THREATS

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. wants the Armed Forces of the Philippines to modernize faster and catch up with the rest of the world following the setback caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Kung ano ‘yung schedule natin, medyo naatras lang nang kaunti because of the pandemic. But now, we are proceeding back to our established schedule,” the President told reporters during the graduation rites of the Philippine Army Officer Candidate Course “Gaigmat” Class 58-2023 in Taguig City.

“Hopefully, we will catch up and, in a year, maybe two, we will already be back to where we were supposed to be at that time before the pandemic,” he said.

The AFP modernization program involves the acquisition of modern vessels, aircraft and equipment to en-

GOVERNOR REMOLONA NOW STEERS THE BSP BUSINESS | B1

able the military to address external threats such as the West Philippine Sea territorial conflict.

In 2016, the UN Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, based on a case filed by the Philippines, dismissed China’s nine-dash line claim covering the entire South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea. It was a major legal victory for the Philippines, but China has refused to acknowledge the ruling.

President Marcos said he met with commanders of the AFP to discuss the need for the military to address the present challenges the country is facing.

The President said the meetings would help the government in the procurement plans for the AFP, adding that training the members of the security forces is “one of the most important things”.

The AFP revised its military acquisition plan with its ongoing modernization program, with Horizon 3 starting this year. It would be the final phase of the modernization thrust which will include the acquisition of equipment geared for external defense.

On Thursday, no less than US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III reiterated its support for the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty. Austin expressed serious concern over China’s “coercive and risky” behavior after Chinese vessels reportedly harassed Philippine boats in the Ayungin Shoal on June 30, 2023, according to the Pentagon.

Austin conveyed his concern during a call to Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro on Thursday, based on a readout provided by Pentagon Press Secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder.

The Philippine Coast Guard reported on Wednesday that two Chinese coast guard vessels took what it described as “dangerous maneuvers” that could have caused a collision with PCG ships assisting the resupply mission of the Armed Forces of the Philippines near Ayungin Shoal.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry said the maneuvers of their vessels during the June 30 incident were “professional and restrained.”

Austin during his conversation with Teodoro, “highlighted the United States’ ironclad alliance commitment with the Philippines and reiterated that the Mutual Defense Treaty extends to Philippine public vessels, aircraft, and armed forces — to include those of its Coast Guard — in the Pacific, including anywhere in the South China Sea,” according to the readout.

It said Austin and Teodoro reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the rules-based order and supporting the livelihoods of local Philippine communities in the South China Sea consistent with the Arbitral Tribunal Ruling in 2016.

AI ROBOTS CAN RUN WORLD BETTER

GENEVA, Switzerland--A panel of AIenabled humanoid robots told a United Nations summit on Friday that they could eventually run the world better than humans.

But the social robots said they felt humans should proceed with caution when embracing the rapidly-developing potential of artificial intelligence.

And they admitted that they cannot—yet—get a proper grip on human emotions.

Some of the most advanced humanoid robots were at the UN’s two-day AI for

MIMIYUUUH GOES VIRAL WITH ADVICE YOUNG LIFE | C1

Good Global Summit in Geneva.

They joined around 3,000 experts in the field to try to harness the power of AI -- and channel it into being used to solve some of the world’s most pressing problems, such as climate change, hunger and social care. They were assembled for what was billed as the world’s first press conference with a packed panel of AI-enabled humanoid social robots.

“What a silent tension,” one robot said before the press conference began, reading the room. AFP

‘THERE ARE NO BAD VEGGIES’ CRAVINGS | C3

THERE ARE REASONS WHY DOGS HOWL PETS | C4

ANGAT WATER NOW BELOW MINIMUM LEVEL

THE reservoir level at Angat Dam, the major source of water for Metro Manila and surrounding provinces, fell below the minimum operating level Saturday morning, data from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration showed.

PAGASA said that as of 6 a.m. Saturday, the water level at Angat Dam dropped to 179.99 meters from 180.45 meters a day earlier. It was also more than 20 meters below the normal high water level of 210 meters.

This forced the National Water Resources Board to cut the raw water allocation for Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System’s two concessionaires to 48 cubic meters per second effective July 8. Maynilad Water Services Inc. corporate communications head Jennifer Rufo told TeleRadyo Serbisyo the reduction would particularly affect the west zone concession.

COSPLAYERS AT THE PARK. Cosplayers who wear the costumes of movie characters Black Panther, Iron Man, Harley Quinn and Wonder Woman catch the attention of children and their parents at the Quezon Circle Memorial Park in Quezon City on July 8, 2023. Manny Palmero

‘Desdemona’

Hanson Robotics performs

MIF TO PREPARE PH FOR UPPER MIDDLE INCOME STATUS—NEDA

THE establishment of the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) will prepare the Philippines to sustain and complete its development programs and projects as the country aims to become an upper middle income country by 2025, an official of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said on Saturday.

NEDA Undersecretary Rosemari Edillon said in a news forum in Quezon City that the Philippines was preparing for its transition to becoming an upper middle income country by 2025, as outlined in the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) for 2023 to 2028.

Edillon said this transition will have significant implications for the country’s fiscal situation and access to concessional loans, like the Official Development Assistance (ODA).

“‘Pag naging upper middle income country po tayo, hindi na po tayo qualified—siguro may grace period na two years ‘yan… hindi na tayo qualified sa mga concessional

loans,” she said. The NEDA official said concessional loans offer low interest rates and extended grace periods to countries with below upper middle income status.

Once the Philippines achieves its target status, Edillon said the country will have to rely on market rates for debt financing, which would be challenging for the government.

Edillon pointed out that due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Philippines was unable to raise its credit rating to achieve the desired creditworthiness, which could have improved debt financing conditions.

“Isa na ‘to sa mga layunin namin

noong previous administration na marating natin ang Credit A. Kasi ‘pag Credit A ka, mababa ‘yung risk premium mo so maganda pa rin iyong debt financing. Pero dahil hindi nga natin naabot iyon dahil nga sa COVID-19, so kailangang maghanap ng tinatawag na innovative ways of financing – iyong ating infrastructure, iyong ating mga kakailanganin pa sa investment,” she said.

To address this challenge, Edillon said the government was exploring innovative ways of financing incomegenerating programs and attracting investments, one of which is the establishment of the MIF.

Edillon said the MIF aims to attract equity financing rather than debt financing, which allows investors to become partners in projects, sharing in the risks and rewards of the venture, such as the flagship infrastructure programs of the Marcos administration.

At present, Edillon said the MIF is an enrolled bill, which will undergo legal scrutiny, awaiting the President’s approval.

Once enacted, she said the MIF will provide an additional avenue for development financing, particularly

IN BRIEF

AMADO DORONILA PASSES AWAY IN AUSTRALIA AT 95

AMADO E. Doronila, regarded as the Philippines’, if not one of the region’s, most succinct socio-political observers, passed away Friday in Australia. He was 95 years old.

for projects that are considered risky but strategically important and have the potential for long-term returns.

Meanwhile, Edillon said the government is now working on the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the MIF, which will help facilitate its operation and contribute to the country’s future investment and expenditure needs.

“Ginagawa na ‘yung IRR nito. Now, in terms of the impact, like any investment, hindi naman ganoon din kabilis natin ‘to na makikita,” she said.

“Kailangan kasing magawa na siya ngayon. Umpisahan nang i-establish ngayon para ‘pag 2025, upper middle income na tayo, we’ll be given a grace period of two years kunwari… by that time, tamang-tama up and running na itong ating Maharlika Investment Fund. Kumbaga meron na tayong isa pang kabayo para doon sa ating development agenda,” she added.

In terms of specific areas for investment, the NEDA executive said the government has identified several infrastructure flagship projects that can generate income or revenue, including airports, water supply systems, and toll roads, among others.

He died “serenely,” according to his oldest child Agustin, who broke the news to a publication where Doronila wrote an evening column in the 60s until Martial Law was declared.

The cause of death was attributed to pneumonia, which started off as a Respiratory Syncytial Virus earlier in the week.

When his oxygen levels dropped significantly on Thursday, the staff from the Kangara Waters care facility in Canberra asked Doronila’s family if he could be sent to the nearby major medical center, the Calvary Hospital.

“He was a bit stubborn and insisted that he was not sick,” Agustin said even after it was discovered that pneumonia had taken hold of one of his lungs.

While Agustin’s sister Maria, a Canberra resident, kept watch over the multi- awarded journalist-editor, Agustin flew in from Melbourne, and their younger brother Andrew and his wife, who also live in the city, were together with their “Pappy” when he passed on.

SOLON LAUDS DOT GAINS UNDER SECRETARY FRASCO

AKLAN Rep. Teodorico Haresco, Jr on Saturday rallied behind the Department of Tourism (DOT) under Secretary Cristina Frasco for its “many accomplishments in boosting national tourism despite recent issues.”

“The Department of Tourism has been making the Philippines proud with its multitude of accomplishments ever since Secretary Frasco took the helm and steered the country’s travel and tourism industry to economic recovery and development,” Haresco said.

In 2022, the country surpassed its 1.7 million target by year-end with 2.65 million international visitor arrivals, translating to P208.96 billion or $3.68 billion in tourism revenue, representing a 2465.75percent increase over 2021 figures.

For 2023, the DOT has already recorded 2,029,419 total foreign tourist arrivals as of May 15, 2023. The target for 2023 is 4.8 million foreign visitors. Maricel V. Cruz

LAWMAKER BACKS OFW HOSPITAL IMPROVEMENTS

at PRC headquarters in Mandaluyong City. The event, which forms part of the ongoing 50th anniversary celebration of PMCC, is conducted simultaneously in 30 locations across the country in observance of the National Blood Donor’s Month. Manny Palmero

PBBM STRENGTHENS PH FIGHT VS. FINANCING CRIMINALITIES—AMLC

By Julito G. Rada

THE signing of Executive Order 33 by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. strengthens the government’s battle against money laundering, terrorism financing and proliferation financing, the Anti-Money Laundering Council said over the weekend.

“... This demonstrates the Philippine government’s strong high level political commitment to strengthen the country’s Anti Money Laundering/ Counter Terrorism Financing/Counter Proliferation Financing (AML/CTF/CPF) regime,” AMLC told Manila Standard in

an emailed statement when sought for comment.

“The NACS 2023-2027 provides strategic direction and coordinated efforts in addressing the remaining International Cooperation Review Group (ICRG) action plan items to exit the Financial Action Task Force grey list,” AMLC said.

“All relevant government agencies, including supervisors, regulators, law enforcement/intelligence agencies and prosecutors are directed to formulate and implement relevant strategy plans and programs to execute the NACS 2023-2027, and to swiftly implement

the ICRG action plans,” it said. The grey list consists of countries that are actively working with the FATF to address the strategic deficiencies in their regimes to counter money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing.

Through EO 33, the President directed all government agencies and local government units to adopt the National Anti-Money Laundering, Counter-Terrorism Financing, and Counter Proliferation Financing Strategy (NACS) 2023-2027.

“This is part of the government’s efforts to move the Philippines out of

2ND PH-US COPE THUNDER 2023 TAKES OFF IN CLARK

By

Vince Lopez

THE second version of Cope Thunder 2023 was officially launched on Friday on by the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the United States Air Force (USAF) at Clark Air Base in Mabalacat City, Pampanga.

Maj. Gen. Augustine Malinit, chief of the Air Defense Command, was guest of honor and speaker at the opening ceremony.

The US was represented Brig. Gen.

Sarah Russ, mobilization assistant to the director of strategy, plans, programs, and requirements of the Pacific Air Forces.

On hand to welcome Russ was Brig. Gen. Leo Fontanilla, commander of the PAF’s 5th Fighter Wing.

Col. Thomas Ryan Seguin, exercise director of Cope Thunder PH 23-2, presented the participants.

In his remarks, Malinit expressed gratitude for the successful execution of the first phase of this bilateral military

exercise, codenamed Cope Thunder 231, which was held last May.

Malinit underscored the exercise’s significance in mission planning capabilities, execution of defensive and offensive counter-air operations utilizing fighter and cargo aircraft.

Malinit affirmed that Cope Thunder 23-2 is an opportunity to assimilate forces and augment interoperability between the Philippines and the U.S.

the grey list of the FATF’s ‘Jurisdictions Under Increased Monitoring’ of countries that failed to show tangible and positive progress in addressing all key recommended actions in the Third Mutual Evaluation Report (MER),” the EO said.

The EO said the strategy will ensure that the country exits the FATF grey list. Additionally, it will also allow the Philippines to address the International Cooperation Review Group.

Malacanang said it was imperative to adopt a new national strategy for 20232028 with the expiration of the NACS for 2018-2022 under EO No. 68, s. 2018.

OFW party-list Rep. Marissa Magsino on Saturday welcomed the commitment of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to improve the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Hospital’s facilities and staffing in Pampanga.

The DMW made the pledge on the heels of criticisms by Senator Raffy Tulfo on the hospital’s alleged sloppy service.

“Our dedicated OFWs deserve our utmost respect and care. By prioritizing the improvement and expansion of the OFW Hospital’s services, while enhancing its promotion and accessibility, we can create a healthcare system that genuinely serves and supports our modern-day heroes,” Magsino told the Manila Standard.

At the same time, Magsino said her group will work closely with the DMW and the Department of Health to ensure the upgrades of facilities and equipment of the OFW Hospital. Maricel V. Cruz

BLOODLETTING. Members of the Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ (PMCC) donate blood during the launch of the nationwide bloodletting drive dubbed ‘Give Blood Give Love Save Lives’ in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) held

PORT CALL. The Italian Navy vessel Francesco Morosini docks at Pier 15, South Harbor in Manila on for a port call as part of Italy’s five-month naval campaign in the Indo-Pacific region. Norman Cruz

IN BRIEF

GABRIELA WANTS HEADS TO ROLL OVER NBI DANCE

ASSISTANT Minority Leader and Gabriela Women’s Party Rep. Arlene Brosas on Saturday pushed for an investigation of the sexy dance number right after the National Bureau of Investigation’s command conference, especially as the bureau handles gender-based violence and harassment cases.

“Hindi sapat na magsorry lang si NBI chief Medardo De Lemos sa nangyaring sexy dance number matapos ang NBI command conference. Dapat may managot. We need an independent and thorough investigation on the matter,” Brosas said in a statement.

“What’s further infuriating about the NBI scandal is that the bureau is the one legally mandated to handle sex scandal cases victimizing women, as well as cases of online sexual exploitation of children,” she said.

Brosas said she would file a resolution to probe the incident. She appealed to the House Committee on Women and Gender Equality to act on the resolution as soon as it is filed. Maricel V. Cruz and Gabriellea B. Parino

NARTATEZ TAKES OVER AS NCRPO DIRECTOR

IMMIGRATION TO SET UP MORE COUNTERS AT NAIA TERMINAL 3

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Manila International Airport Authority said over the weekend it will install more Immigration counters at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 to ease congestion and prevent long queues of departing passengers.

MIAA officer-in-charge Bryan Co said eight additional counters would be made available next week, bringing the total to 44 for NAIA’s busiest terminal.

The airport management hopes to complete by December this year the construction of an immigration

annex, where six four-man counters would be constructed which would require an additional 24 more immigration officers. Once completed, the annex will serve as processing area for overseas Filipino workers, persons with disability, senior

PASIG SIGNS DEAL TO EMBRACE GREEN ENERGY

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Energy Regulatory Commission said over the weekend it signed a tripartite agreement with the local government unit of Pasig City and Manila Electric Co. to expedite the adoption of renewable energy in the area.

“We share in the vision [of the Pasig local government unit] of making it easier for Pasigueños to avail of government programs and enjoy the benefits. We can empower our consumers by making these programs more accessible. ERC is one with the people to bring closer solutions to the public,” ERC chairperson and chief executive Monalisa Dimalanta said.

Dimalanta said the three parties agreed to collaborate on opportunities that would encourage RE use in the city, focusing on projects like the net-metering program and distributed energy resources. These could help manage electricity costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and generate economic development.

citizens and diplomats.

“As we embark on all these tasks, we continuously appeal for understanding and patience from all our stakeholders. With everyone’s support, we can have a better NAIA that we can all be proud of,” said Co. Co said MIAA remained committed to delivering on its promise to expand the immigration area in Terminal 3 as discussed with the Bureau of Immigration during the planning stages of their Schedule and Terminal Assignment Rationalization or STAR program.

Terminal 3 started the year with 26 departure Immigration counters and has since then increased to 36 counters in time for the last phase of

the STAR program this month.

Four months ago, the Immigration bureau prohibited air travelers from using mobile phones while at the Immigration counters.

The ban came following numerous complaints of travelers on social media about the long lines at the Immigration booths, especially at Terminal 3. There were also reports of missed flights due to the long queues.

More than 20 passengers of a local airline were unable to board their flight to Hong Kong in January due to long queues at the airport. The airline provided them with options such as free rebooking, full refund or travel fund.

THE National Capital Region Police Office held a turnover of command ceremony from regional director PM. Gen. Edgar Alan Okubo to PB. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.

The event, held at the NCRPO Hinirang Multi-Purpose Hall in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City, marked a significant chapter in the history of the NCRPO.

Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police, presided over the ceremony and expressed his gratitude to the outgoing NCRPO regional director for his commitment, dedication and exceptional leadership during his tenure as the NCRPO regional director.

Okubo’s tenure was characterized by his tireless pursuit of justice, steadfast loyalty to the organization and devotion to the service of the country and its people. Under his command, the NCRPO made remarkable progress in maintaining peace and order, ensuring the safety of communities, and combating crimes in the bustling metropolis.

Vince Lopez

PARAÑAQUE FIRE CAUSES HEAVY TRAFFIC

A FIRE struck a residential compound in Barangay San Dionisio in Parañaque City near the ManilaCavite Expressway Saturday. The blaze that reached fourth alarm started around 2:30 p.m. at Lorenzana Compound, San De Coastal, in Barangay San Dionisio.

Multiple fire trucks were seen at the area, causing heavy traffic on the northbound lane of Cavitex which reached all the way to Bacoor, Cavite.

No one was reported hurt as of press time. The fire quickly escalated to the fourth alarm in 14 minutes after it was reported, social media reports showed.

The net-metering program enables an ordinary electricity consumer to become a “prosumer” by generating electricity for its own consumption and sell excess generation to the distribution grid. Is a non-fiscal incentive mandated by the Renewable Energy Act. The ERC said it would deploy resource personnel at the City Hall to facilitate the

process and assist Pasigueños with their concerns. The personnel will handle the processing of certificates of compliance applications for net-metering, DERs and selfgenerating facilities. It will also assist in streamlining documentary submissions and the processes for installation, payment and permitting.

Arson investigators were looking into the cause of the blaze and the cost of the damage.

Bureau of Fire Protection records showed that most of the fires happened because of faulty electrical lines, unattended gas lamps and candles and cooking stoves and overheating appliances. Joel E.

Zurbano

LOCAL FOOD FIRM EYES EUROPE, AUSTRALIA

By Jenniffer B. Austria

CENTURY Pacific Food Inc. is eyeing Europe and Australia as the next markets for its plant-based brand unMeat.

CNPF chief operating officer Gregory Banzon said the company was scouting for new markets for its plant-based products following the early success in the United States and Singapore.

GENDER BOND. ASA Philippines Foundation Inc., in partnership with lead arrangers Land Bank of the Philippines and BDO Capital & Investment Corp., launches the first ever Gender Bond in the Philippines amounting to P5 billion. The Asian Development Bank provided technical assistance to support bond framework development and capacity building through the Asian Bond Markets Initiative. ABMI is an initiative of the governments of ASEAN, the People’s Republic of China, Japan and the Republic of Korea to develop local currency bond markets. Joining the event are Landbank, BDO Unibank, Philippine National Bank, Security Bank and Bank of the Philippine Islands. RCBC Trust and Investment Group served as the security trustee and notes facility agent, while ACCRALAW and Picazo Law served as counsel.

Banzon said the company’s unMeat products would soon be available in stores in Australia, and they also were studying opportunities in Europe.

“Because of the early success we are seeing in the US, we are scoping other opportunities and we are doing developmental works in other markets,” Banzon said.

“We are studying opportunities in Europe. Before we enter a market, there are certain criteria we use to evaluate the opportunity. So far, Europe looks very attractive. We are doing the due diligence to see if we can achieve the same level of successes we have in US,” he said.

Banzon said the company started talking to key retailers in Europe and saw some level of interest.

CNPF’s unMeat brand is available in stores of Walmart, Albertsons, Harris Teeter, HEB and Meijer in the US; Carrefour in the United Arab Emirates; and FairPrice in Singapore.

CNPF president and chief executive Teodoro Alexander Po said the group’s outlook for plant-based foods remained positive.

“The category has been overhyped in the recent years, but it feels that

the hype has already died down. The industry will now see more reasonable growth trajectory and growth expectations,” Po said.

“Long-term trends remain positive. We believe plant-based food will continue to be an important part of people’s diet in the mid to long term period,” he said.

CNPF forayed into the plant-based business in 2020, when unMEAT had its institutional launch through affiliate company Shakey’s Pizza Asia Ventures Inc. The company’s unMEAT brand entered the domestic retail market in 2021 and began international rollout in select markets.

CNPF is a holding firm with interests in buying and selling, processing, canning, packaging and manufacturing of food products.

Manila Electric Company signs a tripartite agreement with the Energy Regulatory Commission and the Pasig City local government unit for information education campaigns to promote the net-metering program. Attending the event are (from left) Meralco vice president Lawrence Fernandez, senior vice president Ferdinand Geluz, ERC chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta, Pasig City Mayor Victor Ma. Regis Sotto, vice mayor Robert Vincent Jude Jaworski Jr., councilor Maria Luisa De Leon and administrator Jeronimo Manzanero.

HOT JULY. Having fun can be as simple as resting on hammocks under a tree in Barangay Sipat, Plaridel Bulacan as weather bureau PAGASA cannot say yet when the hot dry season will end because of the looming El Niño that may cause below-normal rainfall conditions and dry spells. Joey O. Razon

IN BRIEF

DAILY TEMPERATURE RECORDS SMASHED

WASHINGTON, United States-World daily temperature records have been smashed this week, according to preliminary data.

The modeling tools that produced these estimates can provide an early warning of extreme heat events, even if they aren’t as precise as monthly and yearly reports produced by leading agencies, say experts.

The University of Maine has established an online tool called Climate Reanalyzer, which shows the curves of average global temperature for each day since 1979.

BULL-RUN FESTIVAL.

Participants run with bulls during the ‘encierro’ (bull-run) of the San Fermin festival in Pamplona, northern Spain, on July 8, 2023.

Thousands of people every year attend the week-long festival and its famous ‘encierros’.

Six bulls are released at 8 a.m. every day to run from their corral to the bullring through the narrow streets of the old town over an 850 meters (yard) course while runners ahead of them try to stay close to the bulls without falling over or being gored. AFP

DUTCH GOVERNMENT COLLAPSES OVER BITTER MIGRATION DEBATE

THE HAGUE, Netherlands—Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s coalition government collapsed Friday over “insurmountable” differences on how to tackle migration, with elections expected in November.

Rutte, 56, the Netherlands’ longest-serving leader and one of Europe’s most experienced politicians, said days of crisis talks between the four parties failed to produce a deal.

They fell out over Rutte’s plans to tighten curbs on reuniting families of asylum seekers, a bid to curb

numbers following a scandal last year over overcrowded migration centers.

“It is no secret that the coalition partners have very different views on migration policy,” Rutte, the leader of the center-right VVD party, told a press conference after talks broke down.

“This evening, we have unfortu -

UN SLAMS CIVILIAN TOLL AS RUSSIA’S WAR HITS DAY 500

KYIV, Ukraine—The United Nations condemned the civilian cost inflicted by Russia’s war in Ukraine as the fighting passed the 500-day mark with no end to the conflict in sight.

More than 9,000 civilians, including 500 children, have been killed since Russia’s February 24, 2022 invasion, the UN’s Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU) said in a statement on Friday, though UN representatives have previously said the real count is likely to be much higher.

“Today we mark another grim milestone in the war that continues to exact a horrific toll on Ukraine’s civilians,” Noel Calhoun, the deputy head of HRMMU, said in the statement marking the 500th day since the invasion.

While this year the casualty numbers have been lower on average than in 2022, the figure began to climb again in May and June, the monitors noted.

On June 27, 13 civilians, including four children, were killed in a missile strike on Kramatorsk in eastern Ukraine.

And far from the front line in the western city of Lviv, rescuers found a 10th body in the rubble of buildings on Friday. AFP

nately reached the conclusion that the differences are insurmountable. For this reason, I will shortly present my written resignation to the king in the name of the whole government.”

The government later confirmed he had presented his resignation and would visit King Willem-Alexander on Saturday.

The coalition was Rutte’s fourth since he took office in 2010. But it had only taken office in January 2022 after a record 271 days of negotiations and was deeply divided on many issues. Rutte—dubbed “Teflon Mark” after the non-stick pan coating for his

ability to avoid political catastrophe –added that he had the “energy” to stand for a fifth term but that he had to “reflect” first.

‘Very disappointing’

The earliest that elections can be held is in mid-November, the Dutch election commission said.

Rutte said he would lead a caretaker government until then that would focus on tasks including support for Ukraine.

The sudden collapse sparked bitter recriminations between the four parties in the year-and-a-half-old coalition, which had been dubbed“Rutte IV”. AFP

On Monday July 3, this curve reached a high of 17.01 degrees Celsius (62.62 degrees Fahrenheit). That record was surpassed on Tuesday with 17.18C (62.92F) and again on Thursday with 17.23C (63.01F).

Europe’s Copernicus Climate Change Service, which has a similar tool, later confirmed the records of Monday, then Tuesday, albeit with slightly different figures -- 16.88C (62.38F) and 17.03 (62.65F), respectively. AFP

CHEMICAL WEAPONS ‘IRREVERSIBLY DESTROYED’

THE HAGUE, Netherlands—The world’s chemical weapons watchdog said Friday that all declared stocks had been “irreversibly destroyed” after the United States revealed it had finally got rid of its last toxic arms.

President Joe Biden announced that the Blue Grass Army Depot, a US Army facility in Kentucky, had eliminated its decades-old stocks, completing a global effort started in 1997 to rid the world of chemical weapons.

“The end of destruction of all declared chemical weapons stockpiles is an important milestone”, OrganiZation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons chief Fernando Arias said in a statement.

The Hague-based body said that the step by the United States, the “last possessor state”, meant that “all declared chemical weapons stockpiles (were) verified as irreversibly destroyed”.

But recent use of chemical weapons meant the world still had to be on guard, the Nobel Peace Prizewinning OPCW warned. AFP

RESCUE SHIP SAVES 47 MIGRANTS OFF LIBYA

MARSAILLE, France—The migrant rescue ship Ocean Viking saved 46 people in distress off the coast of Libya on Friday who were trying to reach Europe in a fiberglass boat, the humanitarian NGO said on Twitter.

Those rescued include four single women, a four-year-old girl travelling with her father and around ten unaccompanied minors, according to SOS Mediterranee.

The survivors are “now being cared for”, the group said, adding they were mostly from Eritrea, Ethiopia and Sudan.

The central Mediterranean is the most dangerous migration route in the world, according to the International Organisation for Migration.

The UN agency has estimated that since the beginning of 2023, 1,728 migrants have disappeared there, compared to 1,417 for the whole of 2022.

Frontex, the EU’s border patrol agency, says boat crossings across the central Mediterranean constitute the principal route for irregular migrant entries to Europe. AFP

US-CHINA COOPERATION ON CLIMATE FINANCE CRUCIAL

BEIJING, China—It is “critical” for Washington and Beijing to keep working together on climate finance, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said Saturday, urging deeper cooperation in addressing the “existential threat” of global warming.

Yellen is on a four-day trip to Beijing, as the United States seeks to cool tensions and stress areas of collaboration between the world’s two largest economies.

“As the world’s two largest emitters of greenhouse gases and the largest investors in renewable energy, we have both a joint responsibility –- and ability -– to lead the way,” Yellen told a roundtable of experts in China, underlining a critical area of cooperation despite tense bilateral relations.

“Climate change is at the top of the

list of global challenges, and the United States and China must work together to address this existential threat,” she added.

Saying that “climate finance should be targeted efficiently and effectively”, she pressed China to support existing multilateral institutions like the Green Climate Fund, while urging for the inclusion of the private sector in transitioning towards net zero.

“Both our economies seek to support partners in emerging markets and developing countries as they strive to meet their climate goals, and I believe continued US-China cooperation on climate finance is critical.”

China last year briefly said it was suspending talks on the climate after Nancy Pelosi, then-speaker of the House of Representatives, visited

Taiwan -- the self-ruled democracy claimed by Beijing.

But there are signs talks could restart soon, with US envoy John Kerry due to travel to China to discuss cooperation on climate change, a US official said Friday.

Besides working together on climate, Yellen said in a Friday meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang that it was also key for Washington and Beijing to closely communicate on global economic and financial affairs -- while making joint efforts on international challenges such as debt distress.

The Treasury chief’s high-level meeting with Premier Li had likely “set the tone” for the rest of her visit, said Lyu Xiang, a Sino-US relations expert at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. AFP

A communal worker sweeps outside an apartment building in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv, on July 7, 2023, a day after it was partially destroyed by a missile strike. The missile strike killed 10 people after the biggest Russian missile attack on civilian infrastructure in the western Ukrainian city since the invasion. AFP

MONETARY EXPERT NOW STEERS THE BSP

By July Rada

HE IS soft-spoken, reserved and a Renaissance man of sorts. People at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas know him as the Stanford guy, whose quietude reveals his cerebral side.

To the public, he is a seasoned international banker who is the perfect fit as the seventh BSP governor, given his vast experience in central banking.

In his private time, he is an adorable grandfather to five boisterous grandkids from two sons who are based in the US.

He dearly misses his grandkids, since it has been months when he last saw the eight-yearold and three-year-old boys who live in Chicago and Philadelphia. It was always a riot when the grandkids met together, he recalls.

“They’re a bunch of rambunctious kids but gwapo [handsome] like their lolo,” he told a group of journalists over dinner Wednesday night.

Remolona, a member of the policy-setting Monetary Board since August 2022, rose to prominence when he accepted the offer of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to head the bank upon the conclusion of former BSP governor Felipe Medalla’s term on June 3, 2023. Medalla served the final year of the dix-year term of the late BSP governor Nestor Espenilla Jr.

Education, accolades

Available information on the BSP website showed that Remolona served as an independent director of Bank of the Philippine Islands where he chaired its risk management committee.

valedictorian from V. Mapa High School, one of the oldest public schools in the Philippines.

While numerous accomplishments adorned his public and professional life, his most rewarding achievement is him as a family man, he said.

A challenging year

The BSP survived 2022, a year full of extreme challenges highlighted by elevated inflation, higher interest rates, persistent COVID-19 pandemic and the spiraling impact of the continuing geopolitical crisis between Russia and Ukraine.

It managed to ensure the uninterrupted supply of money across the country, kept the banking system strong and stable, made the financial system more inclusive and battled record-high inflation.

During Medalla’s term, the BSP raised the policy rates by a total of 350 basis points on top of the 75 bps already taken before he became governor.

DESIGNERS, SUPPLIERS GATHER AT PH FURNITURE FAIR

AT LEAST 8,000 trade visitors flocked to the first Philippine Furniture Furnishings Market (PFFM) held July 5 to 7, at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. PFFM brings diverse choices of high-quality furniture and furnishing products to fulfill the sourcing needs of the local market.

Combined with non-monetary measures, the BSP’s actions helped reduce second-round effects and re-anchor inflationary expectations. The BSP brought inflation to a target-consistent path of 2 percent to 4 percent.

Unknown to many, Remolona is an avid basketball enthusiast who closely watched the recent NBA finals between the Nikola Jokic-led Denver Nuggets and the Jimmy Butler-led Miami Heat coached by Filipino-American Erik Spoelstra.

In a speech during the turnover ceremony on July 3, Remolona noted the lackluster performance of the Nuggets in game two of the NBA finals that resulted in a loss and leveled the series at 1-1. He said a good team should always be on their toes no matter what—a situation that also applies to the BSP.

Monetary prominence President upon Felipe served basketball recent Denver Heat July of resulted said matter

“ Ang pakiramdam ko para tayong Denver Nuggets. Di ba ang galing nila, lalo na si Nikola Jokic? Pero sa game 2, parang natsambahan sila ng Miami Heat. Kaya sabi siguro ni coach Michael Malone sa Nuggets, ‘sana galingan pa natin para hindi tayo matsambahan’. Sana sa BSP rin, galingan pa natin para hindi tayo matsambahan,” Remolona said in the vernacular.

Remolona himself played basketball in his prime and did some hiking. He still plays golf, every now and then. While career now preoccupies his time, he still finds time to go on weekend strolls around Legaspi Village with his wife, Marie.

“We’ll walk to Sycip Park, pass by Greenbelt for at least an hour, sometimes an hour and a half,” he said.

Remolino sees his wife as his equal, who is even a tad better than him in some respects, he concedes.

“She’s better than me in golf. She even won in one of those BSP golf tournaments,” he said, adding the woman she married is a class in herself being a career woman—a chemist in a big company in the US and worked in the pharmaceutical sector in Switzerland. She has devoted her time to environmental chemistry.

Her wife, he added, reciprocally supported his pursuits as an academician and government guy, reminding him of his vow to continue the priorities that bore fruit under the leadership of his mentor and long-time friend—former Governor Medalla, and to even work harder to do better during his term.

What he anticipates and yearns for, as he starts his career at helm of the BSP, is to have good coffee and good conversation with journalists during breakfast, when his time will allow him. This is something he looks forward to as he moves on his career as a public person, as well as a hearty serving of Vigan longganisa and sisig.

He was also a professor of finance and director of central banking at the Asia School of Business in Kuala Lumpur—a collaboration with the MIT Sloan School of Management. As the BIS regional head for Asia and the Pacific from 2008 to 2018, he worked closely with governors of the 12 leading central banks in the region on policy formulation. Following that, he overhauled the BIS Quarterly Review, in his capacity as editor, and turned it into a highly-ranked scholarly flagship publication.

In May 2023, Remolona was awarded with Japan’s Order of the Rising Sun by no less than Japan Emperor Naruhito. It is third highest order bestowed by the Japanese government to people who have rendered distinguish service to the state.

In all of his professional life, the most memorable and the one Remolona enjoyed and misses the most is his time as a professor at the UP School of Economics, him being a product school system when he graduated as

of the public

months

Inflation peaked at 8.7 percent in January this year, but slowed in the succeeding months to 8.6 percent in February, 7.6 percent in March, 6.6 percent in April, 6.1 percent in May and 5.4 percent in June.

In his first meeting with the BSP press corps after the turnover, Remolona said the policy-making Monetary Board would consider the possibility of cutting the key interest rates within the year if inflation declines to 4 percent, which is the upper limit of the target range.

With

Othel V. Campos

Furniture and furnishing importers, wholesalers, distributors and agents, retailers and department stores, online retailers; interior designers and decorators, architects, developers and real estate companies; and hotel, resort, and restaurant managers gathered together for the maiden launch of PFFM in Manila

FAME+ — the Philippines’ premier sourcing destination for home, fashion, and lifestyle products — joined companies from China, Malaysia, and Thailand in showcasing the latest trends in home furniture, outdoor furniture, office and commercial furniture, home décor, and lifestyle products.

According to independent research and consulting company CSIL, the Philippines is one of the rapidly-growing Southeast Asian furniture suppliers, along with Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

“With the Philippine Furniture Furnishings Market, we are able to highlight the creativity of Asian furniture designers, manufacturers and suppliers, thereby helping intensify the demand for products on the global stage,” said PFFM project director Vicky Tan.

ZOBEL DE AYALA SCION TO DISCUSS WOMEN INCLUSION AT NCRE 2023

AYALA Land Inc. director Mariana Zobel de Ayala is set to kick-off the 29th National Retail Conference and Expo (NRCE) 2023, happening on August 10 to 11, 2023 at the SMX Convention Center Manila.

Organized by the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), NRCE 2023 is the biggest and most significant retail event in the country that will bring not only the local but global retail players into one venue to discuss trends and challenges in the retail sphere.

Zobel de Ayala will share insights on how women’s representation and voices can bring innovation to the table, enrich the decision-making process, and achieve more inclusive and equitable outcomes in retail. She will also discuss the pleasures and pressures of being in the fourth generation of a Philippine business family and the importance of staying relevant.

GLOBAL LOGISTICS PROVIDER SUPPORTS PH SELLERS’ PIVOT TO CROSS-BORDER E-COMMERCE

AMAZON Global Selling announced the set-up of a new remote team to provide dedicated support to Philippine sellers to tap into the opportunities of cross-border e-commerce, reaffirming its commitment to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Philippines.

The team based in Singapore is focused on introducing Amazon’s innovative tools and resources to Philippines based sellers, guiding them through the journey of expanding globally and reaching customers all over the world.

“Since Global Selling began to support Philippine sellers three years ago, we have seen more and more local sellers started from zero and gradually build their business on Amazon’s store worldwide. We are inspired by Philippine sellers and have confidence in their potential. Meanwhile, we also heard from sellers that they have some

pain points in developing globally, such as, lack of related knowledge and skills.

That’s why we are extending our efforts

to set up this dedicated team,” said Head of Amazon Global Selling in Southeast Asia Anand Palit, .

Amazon is continuously investing in logistics, tools, services, programs, and people to foster the growth of sellers. Amazon has built physical presence in 22 countries and can ship products to customers in over 200 countries and territories.

Amazon had more than 400 fulfilment centers across the globe. Through Amazon stores, sellers, including those from the Philippines, can directly reach over 300 million active customer accounts, including more than 200 million prime customers overseas.

PRA President Rosemarie Bosch Ong believes that Mariana Zobel de Ayala is the perfect fit for this year’s NRCE theme “Retail Breakthrough,” as she is a true trailblazer in her own right.

theme trail gi embrac

“We believe that she’s an embodiment of a retail breakthrough as she’s an example of a strong woman leader who is not afraid to make a giant leap, embracing new advancements and discoveries to use it and make the necessary steps to achieve success,” Ong said.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona

Ayala Land Inc. director Mariana Zobel de Ayala

PASIG’S CHAMPION FOR CHANGE AND PROGRESS

By Patricia Taculao

WHEN incumbent Pasig City

Mayor Vico

Sotto won the elections in 2019, it was like the battle between David and Goliath. He went head-to-head with former Pasig City Mayor Robert “Bobby” Eusebio. It seemed like the odds were against Sotto because of Eusebio’s in uence over the city. But Sotto held rm in his bid to become a public servant. Ultimately, Sotto emerged victorious and became the youngest mayor to take the helm of Pasig City.

As the son of two pillars in the Philippine entertainment industry, Coney Reyes and Vic Sotto, the now incumbent Pasig City Mayor won over his people with his undeniable charm and being a catalyst for change.

During the rst two years of his term, Sotto implemented the change he wanted to see in Pasig. Eventually, the United States Government recognized his e orts for transparency and accountability, earning Sotto the Anti-Corruption Champion Award, among others from across the globe.

In May 2022, Sotto triumphed again and won his re-election bid, renewing his vow and perspective to implement good governance within his city.

Besides bringing change to the table, Sotto’s pro-activeness during the pandemic earned his constituents’ trust and support. One of his early challenges in position was the COVID-19 pandemic. But instead of succumbing to the di culty, Sotto rose to the occasion. He spearheaded designated ecofriendly buses to aid essential workers in going to their jobs.

Sotto established mobile kitchens that provided Pasig frontliners with fresh, hot meals as they set the standard of being the country’s modern heroes. He also launched a mobile palengke to encourage people to stay indoors while providing them with fresh produce to remain healthy.

Although Sotto was only doing what was proper for his city, his initiatives landed him the top spot in an opinion survey conducted by RLR Research & Analysis Inc from May 14 to June 2, where he got the highest satisfaction rating with 97 percent.

Meanwhile, Sotto has always

Sotto holds the highest satisfaction rate in a recent survey for his COVID-19 response

been transparent in his dealings with his city. He positioned himself as a credible public leader who’s only looking out for his constituents’ welfare.

Coinciding with his bid to battle corruption, Sotto vowed to decrease the costs for all his city projects implemented during his term. He even shared that under his leadership, Pasig saved around P1.2 billion, thanks to his new transparent The 34-year-old Pasig City Mayor also created a 24/7 hotline, Ugnayan sa Pasig, to intensify his anticorruption plans and remain transparent with his constituents. The hotline allows Pasig residents to call city hall directly and le complaints about the government service or government o cials. They can also request information on public matters. The hotline is accessible via email, phone,

or social media.

Nowadays, Sotto remains occupied with his plans for the city while keeping his eyes and ears open to any concerns his constituents might raise.

Among Sotto’s recent undertakings to continuously improve Pasig to meet his constituents’ demands is the bid to make a new City Hall

“campus,” replacing the current buildings, which assessors claim as structurally inadequate. Sotto proclaimed the plan during the Gabi ng Pasasalamant event, which coincides with Pasig’s 450th Founding Anniversary last July 2, 2023, Sunday.

“We realized that this is an opportunity for the City of Pasig, as we recognize our history for the past 450 years, to bridge the past, present, and future. Now we are thinking of the next 450 years of Pasig,” the mayor said.

Sotto also divulged that the project would be the most signi cant in Pasig City’s history, given its requirements of a 10year masterplan and two years to build.

“First, we must make sure that we solve our current problems using the most e cient means possible,” he said. “Beyond this,

PASIG LGU PLANTS 450 TREES TO MARK CITY’S FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY

IN celebration of the 450th Founding Anniversary of Pasig City, government officials and employees planted 450 tree seedlings for its tree planting activity last July 2, 2023, at Maybunga Rainforest Park.

Also present in the activity were students from Pamantasang Lungsod ng Pasig and members of various groups, including the Rover Scout Pasig Council. Some of the seedlings they planted were dao, lanzones, lemon, cacao, narra, and bignay.

Besides adding to the festivities of the founding anniversary, the tree-planting activity also aims to encourage environmental preservation for future generations of Pasigueños to enjoy. Patricia Taculao

By Joel E. Zurbano

we must also make sure that what we build is future proof.”

Because of Sotto’s staunch advocacy for change and consistency in implementing his vision for a well-equipped Pasig, it’s no surprise when many Filipinos, after reading some of his accomplishments for Pasig in the news, want to transfer to Vico-Landia, a modern moniker people now use to describe the Pasig under Sotto’s watchful eye.

THE Taguig City government has inaugurated a threestory multi-purpose hall in Barangay Wawa designed to serve as a venue for a wide range of activities and services for the community.

PDRF, USAID LAUNCH NEW PROJECT ON BUSINESS CONTINUITY IN LAGUNA

THE Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), with the support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and in partnership with the Provincial Gov-

ernment of Laguna, recently launched the Area-Wide Business Continuity Management (AWBCM) for Key Industries and Lifeline Utilities Project. It aims to make the business community

resilient by developing a harmonized framework for the continuity of operations of di erent stakeholders.

The province of Laguna in Region IV-A is the selected target pilot site for this project because of its several economic zones, ranging from industrial zones to technological parks. With its proximity to Taal Volcano and several active fault lines, these economic zones have high exposure to hazards that may affect the supply chain and employees.

The PDRF network is also present in the province with several Ayala properties and lifeline utilities such as Meralco, First Gen, Smart Communications, and Globe Telecom.

Traditionally, businesses and organizations focus on their individual BCM efforts. While this approach is essential, it

often falls short when disasters strike on a larger scale, a ecting an entire area or community. AWBCM, as a game-changer, focuses on the Disaster Risk Reduction Policy and Practice sector with the components of Capacity Building and Training and Policy and Practice.

Moreover, AWBCM will enable better risk assessment and mitigation strategies because it considers the interdependencies and interconnectedness among various businesses and sectors within an area. It will also promote effective planning among di erent organizations in Laguna, enhancing the ability of enterprises to recover quickly after a disaster. Lastly, it will foster a culture of preparedness, equipping businesses and communities with tools and knowledge to move forward from disruptions.

The building, funded by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, features a mini library, e-library, o ces for senior citizens and persons with disabilities, and a child development center on the rst oor. In the meantime, the second oor houses the barangay and youth council o ces, while the third oor has the playing court and control room.

Mayor Laarni Cayetano hopes the new structure will help public servants give Taguigueños better services.

“The building will remain just a building, and its purpose will not be ful lled if it is not live[d] in by public servants who will provide ample services to the people,” the city chief executive said during the inauguration.

Also present in the inauguration and blessing of the Multi-Purpose Building were Vice Mayor Arvin Ian Alit, First District Representative Ading Cruz Jr., City Councilor Hon. Gigi Valenzuela De Mesa, and Barangay Wawa Chairman Hon. Phillip Buena or.

Leading the inauguration of the new multi-purpose building in Barangay Wawa are (from left) Taguig First District Representative Ading Cruz Jr., Barangay Wawa Chairman Phillip Buenaflor, Mayor Laarni Cayetano, and Vice Mayor Arvin Ian Alit

Incumbent Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto

In the last three years, we have started to de-normalize corruption and institutionalize good governance in our local government.

A tiring and mostly thankless job, but we guarantee that in the next three years, we will push harder and do even better.

ON THE ROAD

2023 TARLAC RALLY SEASON OPENER PAUL SANTOS EMERGES AS LEG 1 OVERALL WINNER

FURTHER

championing the return rally racing in the Philippines, the Tarlac Rally hosted its season opener last June 24 to 25, 2023 at the New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac. The iconic 2019 Southeast Asian Games venue served as the parc fermé and service park of the rally.

The first round of Tarlac Rally contained 11 exhilarating special stages (SS), all of which were accessed through the stretch of the O’Donnell Road, which served as the main thoroughfare of the Tarlac Rally’s transport stages. 12 entrants participated in the challenging yet exciting rally event. Out of the 12, only six teams were able to achieve the rewarding feeling of crossing the finish arch which signifies the completion of over 100 km. rally.

Group 2 classification’s Paul Santos together with navigator Ansley Sarmiento emerged as the overall champion of the first round of the 2023 Tarlac Rally. The 2022 Philippine Rallycross Group 3 Champion and 2022 AAP Driver of the Year for Rallycross finished the rally using his no.1 Honda Civic EK with an overall time of 45 minutes and 14 seconds. Participating in the Rear-wheeldrive (RWD) class, the veteran rally driver Jun Magno finished second-overall using his 3S-GE Beams-powered BMW E36. The champion rally driver together with his co-driver Kalvin Sumagui clocked in a total rally time of 45 minutes 30 seconds.

Off-roader and dirt bike rider Devor Andres along with co-driver Rommel Ocoy were hailed as the third-overall winner. With the oldest car in the rally in the form of a 1980’s Toyota Corolla KE70, the duo clocked in a total rally time of 50:22, earning them the Group 4 win. On the other hand, Touge Battle race organizers E.Z. Ligaya and Stephen Alunan finished the rally using the Debest Autofix BMW 316i E36 with a total time of 53:14. The Full Throttle Weekend duo finished fourth overall in the rally and took home second

place in the RWD class. Group 1 was dominated by Marvin Susara together with navigator Charlie Cruz in the team’s 2NZ-powered Corolla E100. In a dramatic SS11 finish which saw their Corolla barely crossing the line, the veteran racers were able to clock in a total rally time of 55:31 which earned them the fifth-overall finish. Meanwhile, Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) CEO Mark Desales together with co-driver Ricxie dela Cruz were able to complete the rally despite

JETOUR AUTO PH: AFFORDABLE SERVICE

ESSENTIAL TO SMOOTH, WORRY-FREE TRAVELS

ALONG with its investment in the aftersales and technical training of its dealerships, Jetour Auto Philippines, Inc. (JAPI) introduces an innovative sixyear Preventive Maintenance Service payment schedule designed to be light on its customers’ budgets. This PMS schedule goes hand-in-hand with JETOUR’s TRAVEL+ philosophy which aims to ensure JETOUR owners create lasting memories with their drives and journeys.

The aftersales experience, including PMS, is essential to the car ownership experience. This is why JETOUR Auto Philippines has mapped out a comprehensive expenditure chart covering the first six years of owning a JETOUR crossover. Through this PMS plan, JETOUR owners and future customers will be able to prepare in advance for the servicing needs of their cars.

JETOUR Pre-planned maintenance

JETOUR vehicles are easy to maintain as they require only twice-a-year Periodic Maintenance Servicing divided into 5,000-kilometer intervals to ensure long-term reliability and optimum performance.

The first year of JETOUR ownership shows two servicing schedules at 5,000 and 10,000 kilometers. A quick oil change is done at each service interval.

challenges mid rally. The duo clocked in the total time of 59:59 which earned them Group 1 second place and sixth-overall finish.

The 2023 Tarlac Rally was made possible through the support of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), New Clark City, Tarlac province, Capas LGU, San Jose LGU, Cleanfuel, Ravenol, Autoplus Sport, Isuzu Philippines Corporation, Accelera Tires, Aguila Auto Glass, AC Delco, JS Mina Sound System, Print & Mount, Method Race Wheels, and Tyron Runflat.

CALTEX OPENS 18 DELO SPORTS OIL CHANGE CENTERS

CALTEX—through Chevron Philippines, Inc. —continues to expand its presence in the Do-It-For-Me (DIFM) car services market with the opening of Caltex Delo Sports Oil Change Center in various locations in the Philippines.

Caltex DIFMs workshops are designed and built to provide convenient, reliable, high-quality products and services to customers of diesel vehicles to help keep their cars in tip-top shape. Delo Sports Oil Change Center offers engine oil change, fluid change, 22pt check, car wash and car detailing, tire change, wheel balancing, and alignment to their valued customers.

Since the opening of the first and biggest Caltex Delo Sports Oil Change Center located in Digos City, Davao

del Sur, Caltex opened 18 more DIFM centers in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Caltex DIFMs provide motorists with high-quality lubricant products, dependable maintenance check, and world-class service for an enjoyable drive.

Last year, Caltex also opened 59 new Caltex Havoline autoPro and 67 Caltex Havoline bikePro workshops, bringing the current network of Caltex-branded DIFM workshops to 274. Caltex will continue to build its network of Caltex Delo Sports Oil Change Center, Caltex Havoline autoPro, and Caltex Havoline bikePro sites in the country to cater to more customers nationwide.

MITSUBISHI MOTORS PHILIPPINES INTRODUCES FIRST-EVER CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

NORIAKI Hirakata was appointed as the inaugural Chairman of the Board of Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) and has taken office since July 1, 2023. The strategic hire underscores MMPC’s stronger dedication to advancing corporate governance and fostering long-term commercial success. In order to secure the continued success of the brand in the nation, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) is shifting its focus to the Philippines. MMC also seeks to solidify a mid- to long-term business plan for the Philippine market. At the same time, Hirakata is employed by MMC as an assistant

executive officer. He will be able to work more closely with MMC and MMPC to ensure the successful execution of business plans for the Philippines because he oversees Corporate Strategy Management at the Tokyo Head Office.

Hirakata’s primary duty as MMPC Chairman of the Board is to supervise the Executive Management Committee’s execution of strategic business plans in order to further establish the brand’s dominance in the Philippine market. On the other hand, the MMPC President and CEO will continue to be in charge of managing the company’s daily operations.

JETOUR Auto Philippines’ trained technicians will inspect various car components at the 10,000-km interval to ensure they are all in optimum working condition. The two service visits in year one will only cost an owner around P8,000 plus. At the 20,000-kilometer interval, PMS will include the replacement of spark plugs, the cabin filter,  Automatic Transmission Fluid, coolant, and other fluids. A JETOUR owner will spend a little over P15,000 in year two for the 15,000 and 20,000-km service intervals.

ALL-NEW CLICK160: ENJOYABLE EVERYDAY CITY RIDING

DAILY long rides around the city comes with its own set of needs which makes choosing the right motorcycle something to take just a bit more seriously. This is particularly true when your daily commute in and around the city takes as much as the entire day.

To this end, Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI) brings The All-New CLICK160. Going by its looks alone, this motorcycle is sure to give you and any rider for that matter, a premium presence on the road everywhere you go. With its bigger scooter look, premium sporty image, a sportier muffler design and colored cast wheel is sure to impress. Even its 3D emblem features adds to its already classy look. Its All LED Lighting System ensures that you clearly see the road when riding at night and its New Headlight and Taillight Design combine a bold look and while enhancing road visibility. Loaded with features that allow you to tackle everyday riding challenges with relative ease. First worth mentioning is its power-house of an engine. The All-New CLICK160 uses a 4-Stroke, 4-Valve, SOHC, Liquid Cooled, eSP+ engine capable of 11.3kW of max power @ 8,500rpm, and 13.8Nm of max torque @ 7,000rpm. These factors give you the ability to traverse the tight and winding city roads – and breeze through traffic easily no matter what the road conditions are!

Chairman of the Board of Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. Noriaki Hirakata

By Peter Atencio

NO Philippine Team. No Problem. Even in the absence of local competitors, Filipino volleyball fans come in droves to watch, cheer, and adore their favorite foreign players in the Week 3-Philippine leg of the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

After basketball, volleyball is the most watched sporting event among Filipino sports fans.

A visiting fan from Japan said: “This is the rst time I come to the Philippines to watch volleyball games. I want to see this country because last year volleyball games in the Philippines are very popular. People like volleyball games very much. It touches my heart.”

Fans show their support to their teams-win or lose—and wait for them at the fans’ corner to have their photos with their favorite players.

Japan is among the teams that gained a big following among Pinoy fans who came in throng to support the team against China on the opening day.

A big Filipino crowd came to watch as Kento Miyaura ended a closely fought contest by scoring match point in the fth set for Japan in one of the opening games that kicked o the start of Week 3 of the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

The fans cheered loudly as Japan went on to upend China, following Kento Miyaura’s final attack that handed the Japanese their ninth straight overall win.

That big win gave Japan the rst slot in the prestigious league’s grand nals set in Gdansk, Poland.

Japan is attracting young Filipino followers, since it is currently the topranked Asian squad playing in Manila, next to the world’s top squads like Poland and Italy.

In that game Yuki Ishikawa struck with 19 points for Japan, and in a match which Japan has remained unbeaten since winning three straight matches during Week 2 in

SPORTS

THE FILIPINOS’ GROWING LOVE FOR VOLLEYBALL

TOYCON 2023: A FEAST FOR THE EYES

TOYCON 2023 opened on Friday to celebrate two decades of bringing fun to collectors.

True to its promise, the Toycon definitely raised the bar again for pop-culture events as the collectors’ mecca attracted nearly a hundred toy exclusives from partner exhibitors, with top toy brands like Funko, Lego, Bandai, Hot Toys, Pop Mart, JoyToy, and many others.

The rst day was mobbed by fans and collectors to avail of discounted toys and collectibles as well as limited edition Toycon releases from worldrenowned toy designers like Quiccs, Wetworks, Creon Chknhead, Arman Kendrick, and more.

TOYCON has also partnered with international brand and licensing giant, MINDstyle, to bring the FanXperience, where con-goers can sample the latest trends in upcoming art toys and purchase Pop Asia exclusives.

Orleans, France. Filipino fans are loving every game of the Manila leg in the VNL 2023, considering that the world’s top volleyball teams are in the country. Among them is world no. 1 Poland and Italy, no. 2 in the FIVB world rankings. Poland showed class and struck down Brazil’s formidable frontline game for a 29-31, 21-25, 25-20, 25-20, 15-13

beating on Friday. Also drawing in a crowd is Italy, which is no. 2 in the FIVB world rankings. Italy fended o a gritty challenge from Canada, 25-14, 23-25, 25-20, 2325, 15-9, with Alessandro Michieletto showing the way with 18 points on 14 hits.

Some of the most admired players are Poland’s Wilfredo Leon Venero,

Bartosz Kurek and Bartosz Berdnoz; Brazil’s Alan Souza, Ricardo Souza and Henrique Honorato; Italy’s Yuri Romano, Daniel Lavia and Alessandro Michieletto; Slovenia’s Klemns Cebulj and Tine Urnaut and Japan’s Kento Miyaura and Akihiro Yamauchi; The Netherlands’ Wouter Termaat and Canada’s Ralph Joseph Sclater and Nicholas Hoag.

KING’S GAMBIT HOPES TO PRODUCE CHESS MASTERS IN 2 YEARS

FOUNDED by coach Richard Villaseran in 2021 during the pandemic, King’s Gambit Online Chess School has been a home of world-class chess training for top age groupers in the country.

“In 2021, I felt the itch to come up with a very strong chess training program after I saw Vietnam dominate the ASEAN age groups. It was very heartbreaking to witness. The program was doing very well but unfortunately, I had to stop coaching the whole of 2022 I’m so proud of what the program’s former players were able to achieve during and after.”, said Coach Villaseran.

Villaseran is referring to Woman National Master Franchesca Largo who achieved a very rare, impressive feat of winning all 13 games in the 2023 National Girls U18, Phil Martin Casiguran earned his National Master Title after winning the National Children’s title recently while Aeiona Lou Mendoza won the 2022 National Children’s Girls Chess Championships.

Now, King’s Gambit Online Chess School has been back for almost 3 months already and is stronger than ever. Its Elite Program boasts of the country’s top junior players including the school’s original players Vincent Ryu Dimayuga and Pat Ferdolf Macabulos, former prodigy Woman National Master Antonella Racasa,

National Master Jeremy Marticio, Woman National Master Jersey Marticio, National Master John Cyrus Borce, Christian Mendoza, Jiancarlo Rivera, youngest national master ever OJ Reyes, Stephen Quinto, Gabriel Paradero and National Master Jerish Velarde.

“I’m so elated with how the program has been

shaping up. I’m so humbled to have these top players join the program. These players are already very strong players before joining. King’s Gambit Chess School and I are just here to guide them and optimize their training. I was surprised during my interviews with them that some of them practice 6-8 hrs a day, in my head, that training regimen is already for stronger Grandmasters, so it reinforced my belief that there’s really a need for players to be trained properly, to make it more optimized so every hour counts and not wasted.”, added Villaseran.

The program’s short-term to mid-term goals are to produce 2 Woman Grandmasters in 2 years, at least 5 National Age-group champions next year, and 5 Fide Masters in 2 years.

“I have very high hopes for all the players. They all have the talent and what’s nice is that they are very keen on learning. Our two female players, Racasa and Marticio are very strong, and I believe they can become WGMs in the next 2 years and become National Women’s team members by next year already. The boys are equally talented they can easily become FMs in the next 2 years also. Reyes and Macabulos are strong 11-year-old players and the sky’s the limit for them.”, added Villaseran.

GO FOR GOLD SHINES IN NATIONAL CYCLING TOURNEY

THE Go For Gold squad’s recent success in the PhilCycling National Championships for Road proved that their training program and solid teamwork could make a big di erence.

”I’m very proud of our whole team for this result. This year was not the best for our road team, because we have actively tried to join higher quality races,’’ said Go For Gold founder Jeremy Go.

”I believe this result validates our training philosophy and hopefully will be the start of better things to come,’’ added Go.

Go For Gold is a sports development program under Powerball Marketing and Logistics Corporation, which supports not

only Filipino cyclists but other athletes and teams competing in various sports as well.

”It’s all about teamwork. Everyone on the team helped Jonel win that race. We don’t only look at the results, but we also give much importance to those who helped him win it,’’ said Go For Gold head coach Ednalyn Hualda. Go For Gold’s success was highlighted by the feat of Jonel Carcueva even as he suffered from cramps immediately after crossing the line for a historic second straight title in the national race. The pain and sacrifice were all worth it with Carcueva acknowledging that victory won’t be his if not for the teamwork

displayed by the Go For Gold cycling team throughout the most celebrated race in the country.

”Sobrang laking tulong ng team sa panalo ko. Wala ako dito ngayon kung hindi dahil sa supporta ng mga teammates ko, coaches at buong management ng Go For Gold,’’ said Carcueva after topping the men’s elite road race of the national championships.

Carcueva, also last year’s gold medalist in the event, actually led Go For Gold in a monumental and rare 1-2-3 nish for a cycling team out of 194 riders after clocking 3:05:20 at the end of the 104-kilometer race made punishing by a long steep climb going to the finish.

Fans also get to interact with top creators and designers like Punk Drunkers and Reen Barrera. You also get to check out the Secret Fresh merchandise and exhibits.

Globe is this year’s event copresenter, and they are bringing in the Globe Playboxx Booth where one can unleash their inner child. They also bring the Globe Premium and VIP Passes loaded with awesome toy exclusives, merch, and vouchers.

Coach Richard Villaseran and Woman National Master Antonella Racasa

In winning or losing, the Filipinos show their support to their favorite volleyball players on and o the court.

Go For Gold achieves history with a 1-2-3 nish in the men’s elite road race in the recent PhilCycling National Championships. Jonel Carcueva (center) wins the title for the second consecutive year while Jericho Lucero (left) and Jaypee Olarte complete the podium by capturing the silver and bronze, respectively.

Life-sized Michael Jordan Funko Pop

Stephen Curry card and other NBA collectibles

Wresting superstars gures

Vintage Game & Watch toys

IT’S A BARBIE WORLD

By Nickie Wang

Global fashion retailer Forever 21 had once again joined forces with Mattel to bring the magic of the Barbie world straight into everyone’s closets. The collaboration gave birth to the extraordinary Forever 21 X Barbie capsule collection.

The SM Megamall Fashion Hall was recently transformed into a mesmerizing Barbie world for this collection. The air buzzed with anticipation as fashion and Barbie enthusiasts alike gathered to witness the launch of a brand-new collection that paid homage to the beloved iconic doll.

With an air of confidence, the models sashayed down the runway, their every stride radiating the quintessential essence of Barbie. They effortlessly embodied the doll’s timeless charm and undeniable style, captivating the crowd’s attention.

The drop, anchored in the iconic Barbie pink hue complemented by subtle accents of light pink, while gray and sprinkled with glitz and rhinestones, features a wide range of styles ranging from fun and vibrant to sweet and comfy:

• Channel your inner Barbie with sporty pink pieces in Forever 21’s best-selling silhouettes. Think logo tees, sweatshirts, cropped tops, and more, all drenched in pink.

• Look even prettier in pink with dolled-up embellished denim pieces and bold and bright statement dresses you can dress up or down with just a change in shoes and accessories.

• Color your world pink with Forever 21 x Barbie’s sweet lingerie and swimwear flings of cute one-piece swimsuits, bikinis, and cover-ups.

• Bring pajamas to the party and match with your friends with expanded sleep apparel featuring lacetrim pajama cami, rhinestones cami, white fleece drawstring shorts, and more.

The newest Forever 21 x Barbie collection also features expanded footwear and fashion bags. Women’s apparel sizes range from XS-XL, plus 0X-3X, and kids ⅚-13/14 years old.

Co-designed by Mattel and Forever 21, the Forever 21 x Barbie exclusive capsule is available at select Forever 21 retail stores: SM Megamall, SM Makati, SM North Edsa, SM Mall 0f Asia, SM Clark, and SM Lanang Premier.

Enjoy fun and fab moments with your friends with this chic Forever 21 x Barbie transparent vinyl bag

MIMIYUUUH GOES VIRAL WITH FINANCIAL AND DATING ADVICE

By Angelica Villanueva

In a video shared across her social media platforms, vlogger Mimiyuuuh expressed her views and dating advice regarding the importance of being with a financially stable partner. However, this perspective received criticism from certain netizens, who went as far as labeling her as ‘matapobre’.

“’Yun nga po, opo, nagkaroon ako ng interview with Cosmo kung saan nagbigay po ako ng advices. And yes, I said what I said about huwag makipagdate sa mga taong walang pera,” the vlogger started.

“Walang pera, hindi naman po ibig sabihin na mag- date kayo ng mga milyonaryo, mga bilyonaryo, mga naka-Porsche, hindi po ganon. Mag-date kayo ng someone na may drive. Mag-date kayo ng someone na kayang dalhin ang sarili. ‘Yung hindi mangungutang at aasa sa inyo. ‘Yun lang po yon, period,” she continued.

The social media star also expressed her disappointment to people who branded her as a snob disregarding and forgetting the fact that she, too, came from humble beginnings.

“Kaya medyo nalungkot po ako sa mga taong sinasabing matapobre daw ako, na parang hindi daw po ako galing sa hirap. Galing po ako sa hirap. Pero nakipagdate po ba ako nang wala akong pera? Hindi po,” Mimiyuuuh added.

“Maybe because wala pong nagkakagusto sa akin during that time, but at the same time, alam ko po kasi ang priority ko at that time. Priority ko po kasi na ayusin ‘yung buhay ko, family ko, career ko, at priority ko ring gawing buo ang sarili ko bago po ako magdagdag ng ibang tao sa buhay ko. Kasi nga po, ayaw kong maging pabigat sa ibang tao,” explained the content creator.

Before ending the video, Mimiyuuuh advised her followers to complete themselves first before seeking

BEACH IN THE CITY

FRENCH FASHION BRAND DIVES INTO SUN-SOAKED DAYS WITH ITS LATEST COLLECTION

The vibrant energy and essence of summer have found their way from Ibiza, Spain to the bustling region of Metro Manila.

The much-anticipated Lacoste Summer Pack Pop-up, which initially took the Spanish island by storm, has now arrived in the Philippines, bringing with it a burst of excitement and a taste of the summer and city vibe.

Launched at Plaza Garden at Power Plant Mall on June 29, the collection lets fashionistas immerse themselves in the vibrant spirit of summer. This exceptional collection effortlessly captures the essence of the Lacoste brand, showcasing garments and accessories that exude effortless style and sophistication.

From lively polo shirts and chic sundresses to trendy swimwear and elegant accessories, each piece in the collection reflects the brand’s unwavering dedication to timeless fashion. Whether you’re in an active mood or seeking a cool and relaxed vibe, this collection is designed to accompany you on every summer escapade. Explore a wide range of lightweight swimwear and versatile clothing in neutral

tones, soft hues, and vibrant shades. Elevate your look with an array of bags, ranging from sleek and simple to bold and chunky, along with beach accessories that prioritize comfort.

Adding a touch of excitement, the Lacoste check features a captivating palette of blues, yellows, oranges, and greens. This playful twist infuses the collection with a burst of color, evoking the carefree spirit of summer.

To experience the Lacoste Summer Pack Collection firsthand, visit the Lacoste Summer Pack Pop-up at various outdoor stops. Discover new playgrounds and fresh ideas as you peruse the curated selection of easy-to-wear pieces, bursting with color and fun.

Look out for the eye-catching Lacoste truck, where you can shop for the latest must-haves. The pop-up is available at the Mall of Asia Grounds until today, and at 5th Avenue, Bonifacio High Street from July 15 to 16.

Additionally, the collection can be found at Lacoste stores and online at lacoste.com.ph, ensuring accessibility for all fashion enthusiasts.

a partner. stops

Lacoste has recently launched its Summer Pack Pop-up collection that lets fashionistas immerse themselves in the vibrant spirit of summer even in a rainy season

Relax by the beach or pool wearing a pretty one-piece swimsuit from the Forever 21 x Barbie capsule collection

Forever 21 brings the Barbie fashion in the real world with its latest collection, Forever 21 x Barbie

SHOWBIZ’S NEWEST ‘IT GIRL’ ATASHA MUHLACH FULFILLS CHILDHOOD DREAM

By Angelica Villanueva

PEOPLE are familiar with her as the young child featured in a commercial for a local fast-food restaurant alongside her twin brother and her father, who is well-known in the entertainment field.

Andres may not be active in acting, but, together with their mom and dad, they did TV guestings and commercials.

RITA

ORA DROPS CATCHY NEW SINGLE ‘DON’T THINK TWICE’

BRITISH singer-songwriter Rita Ora has released a brand new single “Don’t Think Twice.” The release comes hot on the heels of her surprise appearance on stage with Fatboy Slim at Glastonbury and ahead of her performance at Pride Festival on July 1 in London.

Co-written by Rita and produced by Oak Felder, “Don’t Think Twice” follows the release of singles “You Only Love Me” and “Praising You” featuring Fatboy Slim, which have accumulated over 80 million global streams to date.

Inspired by Rita’s own experiences, it is an infectious, upbeat floor filler infusing carpe diem spirit with the beginning moments of a relationship.

is

Yes, that girl is Atasha Muhlach prepared to establish her own identity and exhibit her talents in singing and acting.

There has been ongoing speculation about whether the Muhlach twins would pursue careers akin to their famous parents. However, the time has finally arrived for Atasha to step into the spotlight and forge her own path within the entertainment industry.

That is when Viva entered, to fulfill her long-time dream, and when she thought she was ready, her parent supported her decision, and her dad even gave her “My dad has been nothing but supportive and most caring throughout this whole process, and he’s actually giving me lots of advice [as] to what to expect and, of course, to always be kind

Rita says: “Don’t Think Twice is about not thinking twice and just jumping in, romantically. You only live once, so it’s really about seizing the moment, and not being held back by thoughts of what might or might not happen.”

The accompanying video, directed by Academy Award winner Taika Waititi, was shot in New Zealand. Laced with imagery and symbolism which evoke feelings associated with dreams, nightmares, and the spirit world, it sees Rita channeling Katherine from Wuthering Heights while trapped in a ghostly forest within a dystopian world.

Aga Muhlach

Atasha, along with her twin brother was born into a prominent celebrity family, with her parents being the iconic couple and Charlene Gonzales. With showbiz lineage on both sides, it comes as no surprise that Atasha eventually entered the world of show business after completing her studies in business school at Nottingham, United Kingdom.

During her contract signing with Viva Artists Agency, Atasha disclosed that her aspiration to join the showbiz industry had been a dream since she was a kid.

“This was something that I’ve always wanted to do, ever since I was 10 years old when I did the Sound of Music. That’s when I realized that I really do love to perform. I love to sing,” shared Atasha.

But to fulfill her parents’ wish, the two of them promised to finish their school first before seriously considering a career in showbiz.

“But at first, it clashed with my school. I needed to focus on my studies first. It was a promise to my parents and to myself,” she continued.

“I would guess, he wasn’t as open because I was still in school. That was always a priority. Now that it’s done, [he said], ‘Okay, you’re ready. Go, spread your wings, and fly,” the 22-yearold artist said.

The showbiz industry is not new for the upcoming star.

“Don’t Think Twice” is the third single to be released from Ora’s You & I – her first album release since inking a partnership with BMG, which will see her own all her future master recordings and enjoy artistic control in a way that she hasn’t had previously.

Out on July 14, You & I proves to be Ora’s most diaristic project yet. Working with executive producer Oak Felder (Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj, Alicia Keys, Usher), Rita has created an album conceptually threaded together to signify the different chapters of her relationships with those she loves.

MEET THE COACHES OF ‘THE VOICE GENERATIONS’

THE newest spin-off of the world’s biggest singing competition, GMA Network’s The Voice Generations , recently revealed its much-anticipated roster of coaches including its host.

Joining Dingdong Dantes as program host are singer and dancer Billy Crawford , multi-awarded and best-selling recording artist Julie Anne San Jose , SB19 ’s lead singer and choreographer Stell , and Parokya Ni Edgar ’s Chito Miranda  Chito, Billy, Julie Anne, and Stell are set to choose world-class talents from different generations to join their respective teams.

For the first time, the much-anticipated Pinoy version of the beloved singing

competition will showcase talented duos or groups from different generations performing together in The Voice Arena. Whether they share family ties, work relationships, or friendships, each team brings their own distinctive story and deep emotional connection that will be showcased on stage.

Once their teams are complete, each group of talents will go through knock-outs and sing-offs as they battle it out to become the first ever The Voice Generations champion in Asia.    The Voice Generations is a unique singing competition where auditions are based solely on vocal ability.

Atasha Muhlach is now ready to take her own spotlight as she finally enters the showbiz industry

Atasha together with Viva Artists Agency executives

The rising star signs contract with VAA

Rita Ora’s latest single, ‘Don’t Think Twice’, is now streaming on various streaming platforms

The British singer-songwriter’s newest song is part of her ‘You & I’ album

. And now, she

Andres

Growing up, she witnessed her parents do acting in TV series and films. She and

‘The Voice Generations‘ coaches (left) Chito Miranda, Billy Crawford, Julie Anne San Jose, and SB19’s Stell

By Joyce Pangco Pañares

MIMI VERGARA-TUPAS

serves plant-based dishes that taste like a celebration. Well-thought-out and beautifully executed, she salutes vegetables for what they are: delectable food that can pleasantly surprise even the pickiest of eaters.

“There are no bad vegetables,” she said during the press preview of her creations that will be featured in a one-night-only 4-course wine pairing dinner on Monday, July 11, 2023, at The Westin Manila in Ortigas.

“It is more than just creating plant-based versions of meat dishes. We are doing entirely new plant-based dishes,” added the Davao-based vegan chef who is the creative director and founder of Made Simple, a vegetable-forward fine casual restaurant, and Clean Café, a 100% plant-based café recognized as one of the best restaurants in the country.

Tasting her creations will make you want to order seconds – I certainly piled up one clean plate after the other, and I am a heavy meateater who has been disappointed countless of times in the past by plant-based versions of beloved dishes that tasted too healthy, too bland, or too much like hospital food.

“We should not be afraid of veggies,” she said after I told her that no one has yet to succeed in making me eat an ampalaya dish delicious enough for me to actually like it, instead of just swallowing it like some bitter pill.

For an umami flavor, she harnesses various kinds of mushrooms and seaweeds to balance the earthy notes of vegetables.

Her mushroom pâté, for example, was made with forest mushrooms and topped with walnuts, rosemary butter, and garlic confit and served with artisan bread.

She used enoki mushrooms and truffle oil for the watercress soup, while the tomato panzanella salad was a mix of farm tomatoes, greens, crusty bread infused in olive oil and spices, Spanish olives, and vegan cheese with a

tangy dressing. The burnt tomatoes dish was a farm-to-table showcase of plump and sweet cherry tomatoes charred to bring out their best flavors, served on a bed of plant-based cheese and infused oils with a side of seed crackers.

Her main course featured the diversity of mushrooms, cooked three ways: King oyster mushrooms in pesto butter and served with microgreens; assorted forest mushrooms with vegan cheese, walnuts, and microgreens; and a bouquet of crisp enoki with garlic aioli, and black lava salt.

"All my creations are built on these pillars: simple, beautiful, and vegetable-forward. I teach my team how to build flavors, textures, aroma out of plant-based sources, how to have a connection with their produce, and know their flavor profiles so they can build on flavor bombs that define the depth and complexity of each dish,” she said.

For Westin Manila general manager Alexander Dietzsch, the philosophy behind VergaraTupas’ plant-based creations is aligned with the hotel’s own wellness-forward belief.

“We are very focused on the well-being of our

guests. Eat Well is one of the six well-being pillars,” he said, the others being Sleep Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well.

Some of Vergara-Tupas’ best-selling dishes will also be part of Westin Manila’s daily lunch buffet until the end of July, including the watercress soup, mushroom adlai salad, Tempeh mushroom grain bowl, pesto pizza, Asian salad with fish tofu and sambal matah, roasted tofu and vegetable skewers with cauli rice and tzatziki sauce, and rosemary olive oil cake.

"Our selections range from indulgent to wholesome, all made with sustainably sourced ingredients. While we serve buffet and savory, hearty delights, we also have an Eat Well menu with a few plant-based and vegan options to cater to guests looking for healthier alternatives," said Rej Casanova, the hotel's Executive Chef.

But then again, the wonder of Vergara-Tupas’ dishes lies in the fact that one would order them because they are delicious. That they are good for one’s health is just a bonus.

“Most of our customers in Davao are not vegans nor plant-based eaters. They come back and order again because they like our food. We let our food do the talking,” she said.

WORLD CHOCOLATE FAIR RETURNS BIGGER, SWEETER

EXPERIENCE an out-of-this-world celebration of World Chocolate Day as Auro's World Chocolate Fair returns with a bigger and sweeter comeback

The five-day event lets chocoholics enjoy sweet treats and pastries from 12 local brands that have incorporated the delectable taste of Auro Chocolate.

“We want to push the boundaries of what cacao and chocolate can be, and we’re really proud that our partner brands keep bringing something different,” said Kelly Go, co-founder of Auro

FOR certified vegan chef Mimi Vergara-Tupas, vegetables are always the star of her dishes.

“We started with cold-pressed juices and salads in 2014 and gradually expanded to carry more healthier on-the-go meals as our market grew," she said.

Plant-based cooking, she said, takes a lot of creativity and unlearning.

VNGAME-CHANGING VEGGIE CONCEPTS ERE ARE NO BAD VEGGIES HERE

“Our menu ranges from nutritious to indulgent, on-the-go meals to tasting menus, plated dishes to chopped salads to grain bowls. We've created hundreds of recipes, each with its own particular flavor that has made it a best-seller in its own right,” she added.

Chocolate. Attendees can get chocolate treats from brands such as Bubu Bars, Half Saints, Tiger Sugar, Simone, and Daniel Baker. Satisfy your sweet tooth cravings with Overdoughs, Tender Loving Cakes and Poison Doughnuts & Coffee. You can still catch the last day of World Chocolate Fair today (Sunday, July 9, 2023) at the Main Atrium of S Maison at Conrad Manila and enjoy the sweet treats that local brands have to offer.

Angelica Villanueva

Chef Mimi Vergara-Tupas revels in creating delicious plant-based dishes. ‘Plant based is at the core of what we do and not just a seasonal thing for us,’ she says.

Burnt tomatoes with plant-based ricotta

Mushroom pâté served with artisan bread

Rosemary olive oil cake

Westin Manila’s plant-based carrot cake

Tomato Panzanella salad

Mushroom cooked three ways: King oyster mushrooms in pesto butter, assorted forest mushrooms with vegan cheese and walnuts, crisp enoki with garlic aioli and black lava salt

By Mariana Burgos

OUR neighboring farm has a lot of dogs. We know this because almost every night, their dogs howl all at the same time. And they do this for more than 10 minutes or so! Sometimes, our dogs howl back but other times, they simply bark back a little to them and they would just listen if the howling continued.

Dogs play various functions within their packs. Some are scouts who go out and howl back to the pack that they have found someone or something threatening. Siren noises may appear frightening to dogs. Back at pack headquarters, the leader will howl to bring the scouts home or to warn them of hazards or prospective predators.

Every dog has the potential to be a howler or a barker. Breeds that can trace their ancestry back to wolves, such as the husky, Alaskan malamute, Akita, and Shiba Inu, are more likely to howl. However, all sorts of dogs, including quiet dog breeds, are capable of howling on occasion. Even experts are baffled as to why dogs howl at specific times. However, the dog's progenitor, the wolf, provides hints that may assist us with some explanations.

Getting back to its roots

Veterinarians Ryan Llera and Lynn Buzhardt explain in their article "Why Do Dogs Howl?" that howling has evolutionary origins just like many canine activities. In the wild, fearful wolves in the woods howled to alert other members of their pack family of their whereabouts. The brave wolves howled to warn other wild creatures to keep away from their domain. Your dog may not howl to alert you to their whereabouts or to keep intruders at bay, but dogs still howl as a method of communication, as they have for millennia.

Communicating with other dogs

Llera and Buzhardt say that howling is a method of communication used by pack members to locate one another. Dogs that remain behind vocalize to direct scouting members back to safety and to communicate the position of home base. When a dog is left at home alone, he or she may howl when they hear you drive up to your house or see you mounting the stairs in an attempt to direct you safely back to them.

Showing alertness and readiness to respond

Many dogs howl when provoked by highpitched sounds such as sirens and music, or in reaction to the vocalizations of another dog. Howling acknowledges that they have heard the sound and expresses their readiness to reply or wish to participate in the action. If your dog's howling is caused by an aural stimulus, he will most likely stop when the sound ends, according to Llera and Buzhardt.

WHY DOGS HOWL

Giving out a warning

Howling is an effective protective technique for warding off possible predators. When a stranger enters their area, dogs may howl in order to protect their homes. Some dogs howl to keep strangers out of their area. Howling also alerts approaching dogs that a certain territory has already been claimed and outsiders are not welcome.

Announcing its arrival

Howling warns nearby dogs that their environment is about to change. An arriving dog may howl to warn dwelling dogs that they are on their way. Llera and Buzhardt say that this audible notice avoids an approaching dog from shocking the present residents of a neighborhood.

Seeking attention

Nothing attracts a dog owner's attention like a piercing howl, therefore the strategy succeeds. Some dogs, like some children, will do anything for attention, even if it is bad, thus reprimanding your dog may aggravate the problem. Give him the attention he craves once he calms down. Because canine verbal manipulation may become annoying, humans must learn not to reward vocal requests.

Expressing their fears and worries

'You are the world to your dog,' said Llera and Buzhardt. They are concerned with your activities and make a great deal about your arrivals and departures. Howling and destructive behavior are two tell-tail—er, telltale—signs of separation anxiety. If your dog has separation anxiety, he may howl if left alone. Because separation anxiety causes howling only when the dog is removed from his owner, the howling disappears as soon as you return home. The easiest method to help a

dog that is acting out in this way is to take them outside and let them run about before you go. This allows dogs to expend any excess energy they may have that they may choose to rest the whole time you are away.

Expressing pain or illness

When people are harmed, they cry, and dogs do as well (by howling). Dogs may howl when they are unwell, especially if they are crated or confined, to alert everyone within earshot that they are not feeling well. To express their distress, dogs will howl. Bring your dog to the veterinarian to rule out any disease or damage.

Expressing excitement about a discovery

When dogs are joyful or enthusiastic, they will howl. When hunting breeds such as beagles, foxhounds, and basset hounds find game, they howl to notify their human hunting mates. Even if there is no actual hunting going on, your dog may let out a howl as a display of joy and pride when it discovers something new or discovers an unusual object in the backyard.

Speaking of your dog’s happiness, have you ever wondered why dogs smile? Have a read of this article I wrote about it: https://manilastandard.net/pets/314242618/why-do-dogs-smile. html#:~:text=Home%20%20Pets-,Why%20do%20 dogs%20smile%3F,-byMariana%20Burgos.

About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a freelance artist. She has been a solo parent for 16 years now because she is wife to a desaparecido. She and her daughter are animal lovers and are active in advocating not only human rights but the rights of animals as well.

WE HAVE been encountering posts on dogs, cats, and other animals on Facebook that are eye-openers, or inspiring, or enlightening, or educational, or can make one feel good during a stressful day, or make one encouraged to help the poor souls among us.

Sunday Pets would like to share these notable posts of netizens through this space called Pawsbook.

CAN CATS EAT SWEET POTATOES?

First of two parts

By Niko Gabriel Salgado

SWEET potatoes, distinct from regular potatoes, offer a wide range of culinary possibilities. With more than six thousand varieties found globally, these starchy vegetables are highly adaptable. In addition to their versatility, sweet potatoes are incredibly nutritious, containing ample moisture, fiber, and a unique sweet scent.

Sweet potatoes are renowned for their health benefits, making them a popular choice among humans seeking a nutritious diet. Moreover, they are frequently included in dog food recipes, emphasizing their suitability for canine consumption.

But can cats eat sweet potatoes?

The answer is yes. Sweet potatoes are non-toxic to cats.

“Small amounts of sweet potato can

provide a valuable fiber source, which can benefit the digestive system and prevent constipation,” said Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, veterinarian, in “Can Cats Eat Sweet Potatoes?” in Cats.com. They are also a good source of certain vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants, Woodnutt added.

Is sweet potato good for cats?

Sweet potatoes, specifically the sweet type, possess fiber that can be beneficial for cats who are experiencing digestive problems. They are rich in essential vitamins and nutrients like antioxidants, potassium, manganese, phosphorus, betacarotene, and vitamin B6. While sweet potatoes can offer a modest amount of protein and carbohydrates, it is important to note that they should NOT be consumed frequently by felines. Cats are obligate carnivores, and not

very well adapted to eating veggies. This means that they should only be given vegetables in small amounts, Woodnutt said.

Can cats eat the sweet potato’s skin?

The fibrous skin of a sweet potato can pose challenges for a cat's digestion. It may lead to an upset stomach, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Therefore, it is advisable to peel off the skin of the sweet potato either before or after cooking

What’s the best way to prepare sweet potatoes for your cats?

“Cat owners can safely give the cooked product, such as steamed sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, or baked sweet potatoes in small amounts, without any added seasonings,” Woodnutt said.

Too much sweet potato can cause an upset stomach, Woodnutt said. Raw sweet

From Doggos and Puppers

“Dogs are the most loyal and loving creatures

They are the sweetest hello and the hardest goodbye

They will love you more than they love themselves

They will always be there for you, no matter what

They will never hate you and will wag their tails for you

They will break some of your things, but not your heart

They will always be waiting for you to come back home

They will always cherish your moments together

They will change your life and make it worthwhile

They are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole

Dogs are simply the best ♥♥”

Vanessa Acevedo in Cats Make Me Happy group in Facebook “So, how do I wake them up so I can make my bed, without feeling guilty ♥♥ ♥theylooksocute♥”

Ğasparek István Zoltán In Dog Lover group in “My dogs came into my life when the doctor told me I had cancer. I went and adopted two long time shelter dogs that had thought no one would ever love them.

I went to shelter and seen Rich first at back of kennel like his life was over. I adopted him. Next I seen Ronny and he came up to me and licked my hand. I adopted him.

I felt I needed some companions during this time of pain and the unknown. I didn’t know what would happen but I know I needed love to always surround me and that’s what I found in Rich and Ronny. I needed to laugh and they make me laugh all the time. I needed to cry and they gave me a soft place to do it. I needed a friend and they gave me a paw. I beat the cancer and I owe it all to them for providing me with all the love and compassion I could ever need.

I love you guys you are my everything!!”

Compiled by Desiree Carlos

potato should never be given as it will lead to digestive issues, Woodnutt added. To introduce sweet potatoes to your cat, the recommended approach is to steam the vegetable using unseasoned water.

Here is a step-by-step guide for the cooking process: To be continued.

A dog in distress howled because it was locked inside a car. (Photo from Depositphotos royalty-free images.)

A man plays a harmonica while his dog howls (sings). (Photo from Depositphotos royalty-free images.)

A Golden Retriever howling in a garden. (Photo from Depositphotos royalty-free images.)