Manila Standard - 2023 July 30 - Sunday

DESTINY CALLS FOR FILIPINAS

NORWAY STANDS IN WAY OF PINAYS’ HOPES TO ADVANCE IN WORLD CUP

By Erel Cabatbat

THE Philippine National Women’s Football Team guns for an outright spot in the knockout stage of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 and another stab at history when it faces heavily-favored Norway at 3 pm today (Manila time), at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand.

The Filipinas, currently third in Group A with 3 points behind unbeaten Switzerland and co-hosts New Zealand on goal difference, will advance to the round of 16 without any complications if they beat The Gressshoppene in the crucial encounter.

A draw might even be enough for the Philippines to advance to the knockout rounds, as long as Switzerland beats host New Zealand in the other important fixture in Group A.

Despite the importance of the game against Norway and the odds they are facing, Filipinas’ head coach Alen Stajcic remains focused on the job at hand.

“It’s going to be a big challenge. It’s unbelievable to think that we’re in this position. Any neutral person around the world would have not put any money on us to be in this position. To be ahead of Norway on the league table after two matches was almost unheard of from any neutral pundit,” Stajcic said.

With only a point to show in two games, Norway is expected to go all out against an inspired Philippine side coming off an upset 1-0 win against the host Football Ferns in their last game.

For this, Stacjic is wary of how dangerous an opponent Norway is, especially looking at its successes in the sport as former World Cup champions, Olympic gold medalists, and even having a winner of the Bal-

lon d’Or (Golden Ball, the top individual award of the International Football Federation or FIFA) in its lineup.

“I have a lot of respect for them, they’ve got players playing at the highest level. We know that the challenge is immense and huge, but the World Cup has already produced so many upsets. So why can’t there be another one?” Stajcic added.

Several factors might lessen the odds against the Filipinas. First, Norway has underperformed so far in the tournament, losing to New Zealand, 1-0 in its first game while drawing their match against Switzerland, 0-0.

Second, Norway’s leading scorer Ada Hegerberg will be out of the match after suffering a groin injury. Hegerberg has scored 42 goals so far for the team.

Third, Caroline Grahan Hansen, Barcelona FC teammate Ingrid Syrstad Engen, and Julie Blakstad of Manchester City were dropped from the starting unit. Reports say Hansen took the issue with Coach Hege Riise, raising the possibility that the Barcelona forward might be left out of the lineup against the Philippines.

This development may also impact the morale of a team with its back already against the wall.

For Stajcic, however, these concerns may even produce positives for their opponents.

PBBM: POWER, RICE NEEDS OF NORTH COME FIRST AFTER ‘EGAY’

By Charles Dantes

PRIORITIZE power restoration and ensure rice supply for families affected by Typhoon “Egay,” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered officials on Saturday as he visited Northern Luzon, where at least four provinces and five areas declared states of calamity.

“Again, rice, for me, is the most important,” the President said during a situational briefing with government officials in Abra before flying to Tuguegarao City to check Cagayan Province as well and distribute financial assistance.

He said that the government needs to find other rice suppliers to help National Food Authority in producing rice.

In a post-typhoon situation briefing in Ilocos Norte with the President, officials said total Region 1 infrastructure damage due to Egay was estimated at P2.8 billion.

On Friday, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said the storm has caused an estimated P2.66 billion worth of damage to road infrastructure nationwide.

Agricultural damage in Ilocos Norte alone was estimated at P361 million.

“I’m looking at the report of the DOE (Department of Energy). So, what do we do? Of course, we are only at 2.5, 3 percent in terms of our electrification,” he said.

Based on the DOE report, Ilocos Sur is at 37 percent while Cagayan is at 42 percent. Abra (Banged only),

Pangasinan, and Isabela are nearing 100 percent power restoration, it added. Mr. Marcos thus ordered the swift power recovery in both Ilocos provinces and the Cordillera Administrative Region.

The Chief Executive added that the government is also monitoring the prices of vegetables as farms were

UP TO 11 STORMS TO HIT PH BEFORE YEAREND—PAGASA

AT LEAST eight more tropical cyclones are likely to hit the country this year, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said on Saturday.

“We expect about eight to 11 more typhoons to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) this year,” PAGASA deputy administrator for Administration and Engineering Services, Dr. Nathaniel Servando, said during a weekly media forum in Quezon City.

The strongest typhoons are expected in September and October, Servando said.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals are also unlikely due to Tropical Storm Falcon, which entered the PAR yes-

terday, as the weather disturbance is not expected to make landfall over the country.

Servando said Falcon, unlike Egay, which was a super typhoon, will only reach typhoon level in terms of intensity.

Meanwhile, the Department of Energy is focusing on 12 remaining electric cooperatives affected by Egay whose power supply has yet to be restored.

“Nine regions covering 38 provinces were affected [by the typhoon] but what is good is 50 out of the 62 cooperatives are in normal operations,” DOE

Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella said in a briefing on Saturday. Alena Mae Flores

also affected by Egay. Asked if the government will resort to importation, Mr. Marcos said he is thinking of bringing in rice from other countries. He shared his worries about the possible repercussion of the El Niño phenomenon and the agricultural damage the country received from Egay.

“Everybody is preparing for El Niño, that’s why I’m worried that the high prices of rice might remain even if we start importing,” said Mr. Marcos. “We will not import any agriculture (product) unless we see that the supply is so low that the prices will be out of reach for the ordinary consumer,” the President added.

EAST MEETS WEST IN UNDER 30 SECONDS CRAVINGS | C3

PBBM IN CAGAYAN. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. leads a situation meeting in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan on Saturday. Mr. Marcos turned over P15 million worth of assistance to the provincial government, and P3 million each to the local governmentunits of Sanchez Mira, Aparri, Sta. Ana, Abulug, Cagayan and Sta. Teresita. Prior to Cagayan, the President was in Laoag, Ilocos Norte, and Bangued, Abra. Alfred Frias

SMILING WHILE WORKING. Joint forces of the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the Philippine National Police assist in the evacuation of residents from various barangays of Batac City, Ilocos Norte. BFP Ilocos Norte

FOCUSED ON THE JOB. Philippines head coach Alen Stajcic (left) and forward Sarina Bolden discuss the Filipinas’ chances against favored Norway in their FIFA Women’s World Cup match Sunday in Auckland, New Zealand. A victory or a draw by the Pinays could move them past the group stage into the knockout rounds.

STRICTER MEASURES SET FOR INTER-ISLAND FERRIES

inspections and safety protocols in ports will be heightened following the capsizing of a ferry in Binangonan, Rizal that killed 27 people, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.

Rear Admiral Armand Balilo, the spokesperson of the PCG, also said stricter measures will be imposed on interisland ferries to prevent maritime accidents.

Earlier this week, the motorized banca Princess Aya capsized in Laguna de Bay off the coast of Binangonan at the height of stormy weather in Luzon. Authorities also suspected that the ferry may have been overloaded with passengers.

Balilo said investigations on the

deadly incident are ongoing, but the ferry captain has already admitted that they carried more passengers than what was declared in the boat’s manifest.

The official further said authorities are expected to complete their investigations next week. Charges are also expected to be filed against the captain and his crew, he said.

Balilo said the PCG is also working with the Philippine National Police (PNP) on the maritime case. The of-

ficial said the goal is to file charges against the captain and the crew of Princess Aya.

The official also said it is likely that the earliest time that the investigation will be completed and the charges will be filed is on Monday, adding that the boat’s captain is currently detained. Reports said At 1 p.m. on Thursday, the Princess Aya capsized in Laguna Lake near Binangonan. The PCG said the death toll from the incident was 27, while 40 survived.

The captain maintained that he was not aware that the boat was overloaded, authorities said.

The PCG official said the charges to be filed would depend on the

TINGOG HELPS 1K FAMILIES IN LAPU-LAPU THRU DSWD

results of the investigation.

As of the moment, PCG divers are still deployed for retrieval operations in case another body surfaces, the official said.

Senator Jinggoy Estrada meanwhile extended his condolences to the families of the maritime accidents. He also said he is hopeful that justice will be given to the said families.

“We must hold those responsible accountable for their actions, or inactions, that may have contributed to this tragedy. There must be full transparency in their conduct of comprehensive and impartial inquiry into the incident,” Estrada said. Macon Ramos-Araneta and Charles Dantes

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE Office of the House Speaker and the Tingog party-list group, in close coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and Lapu-Lapu City Rep. Cynthia King Chan have conducted an offsite payout for constituents in the city’s lone district.

The event, held at the LapuLapu City Auditorium, aims to assist indigent, needy, and vulnerable families amid socioeconomic strife.

Rep. Chan thanked the House of Representatives led by Speaker Martin G. Romualdez, his wife, Rep. Yedda Marie, Acidre, saying her constituents are lucky to be selected to receive assistance from the “generous” representatives of Tingog.

She said the assistance was of great help to uplift their lives.

“We have the responsibility to do something to make their lives brighter and better as your voices in Congress,” Rep. Chan said.

For his part, Mayor Ahong Chan also expressed gratitude to the Office of the House Speaker and Tingog Partylist for their love for their constituents in Lapu-Lapu City. He said, “Tingog party group is always with us with or without an election.”

A total of 1,000 beneficiaries received P5,000 each to support their daily needs.

MEASURES.

OIL FIRMS HIKE FORECAST FOR PUMP PRICES NEXT WEEK

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE country’s oil firms have updated their oil price forecast for Tuesday to reflect an increase of as much as P3.40 per liter for diesel due to the movement of prices for the five-day trading in the world oil market.

Unioil Petroleum Philippines said in its advisory on Saturday that consumers should expect fuel prices to go up for the week of August 1 to 7, 2023.

“Diesel will increase by P3.20 to P3.40 per liter. Gasoline will increase by P1.70 to P1.90 per liter. Load up accordingly,” Unioil said.

This is higher than the previous forecast based on the first four days of oil trading in the world market of P2.80 to P3 per liter for diesel and P1.60 to P1.80 per liter for gasoline.

Sources said kerosene may also go up by more than P2.50 per liter.

Some areas in the country will not experience higher pump prices

as they were placed under a state of calamity due to the damages brought by Super Typhoon Egay.

The Department of Energy (DOE) imposed a price freeze for household liquefied petroleum gas (11-kilo cylinder and below) and kerosene products.

The prize freeze is now in effect and will remain valid for 15 days upon the declaration of the state of calamity.

These areas are Cavite province, Ilocos Norte province and the municipality of Sanchez Mira in Cagayan. The prize freeze is effective from July 27 to August 10, 2023.

DOE director for the Oil Industry Management Bureau Rino Abad said Friday prices are forecasted to go up next week after the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries continued to implement its oil output cut of one million barrels per day. The expected oil price hike next week will be the fourth consecutive week increase for diesel and kerosene and the third for gasoline.

FUTILE SEARCH. Rescue workers and local boys look at an irrigation chokepoint filled with water lilies for a 14-year-old who went missing after swimming with four others at Amucao in Tarlac City on Friday as Typhoon ‘Egay’ lashed Northern Luzon. Officials fear the boy had been swept further downstream into another village. Tarlac City PIO

MMDA SETS TRAFFIC PLAN FOR FIBA WORLD CUP

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority is preparing a traffic management plan in connection with the country’s holding of the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup beginning next month.

“Yesterday we had a coordination meeting related to the holding of the 2023 FIBA World Cup from August 25 to September 10. The possible implementation of a moratorium on road

diggings and mall sales was discussed in our meeting,” said MMDA chairman Romando Artes.

The MMDA is set to submit to the Department of Public Works and Highways a work plan that will identify the areas that need to undergo reblocking before the prestigious event can be held.

“Currently, the agency is drafting the traffic management plan for the 2023 FIBA World Cup and will present it to the FIBA-Local Organizing Committee,”

the MMDA chief said. Artes said the MMDA will also use its new Command Center in Pasig City where other FIBA officials and delegates can monitor situations related to the event.

The FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 will take place in the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia from August 25 to September 10. The 32 participating teams will play in 92 games played over 16 days.

‘CERTIFY URGENT EASE OF PAYING TAXES MEASURE’

By Maricel V. Cruz

ALBAY Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda on Saturday asked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr to certify as urgent the Ease of Paying Taxes Act that is now being deliberated in the Senate as Senate Bill 2224.

Salceda, chair of the House committee on ways and means and the lower chamber’s resident economist, said this is to allow the bill to be approved on 2nd and 3rd reading in one day in the Senate plenary. The House already approved its version under HB 4125, which Salceda principally authored.

“I think it’s time to modernize the way we administer taxes. Bringing the tax system into the 21st century will be a PBBM legacy. So, respectfully, I request the President to certify this measure as urgent, considering that he has already mentioned this as a priority in both SONAs,” Salceda said.

Salceda added that “most of the key issues have already been settled anyway, including the concern among enterprises that the shift to an invoice-only system would cost those who are unable to get their receivables on time.”

The measure is in the period of interpellation in the Senate.

DISASTER SIMULATOR. Computer Engineering students from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines wear Virtual Reality (VR) headsets to simulate and experience an earthquake inside the Muntinlupa City’s Department of Disaster Resilience and Management mobile hub during a three-day forum and expo, which aimed to educate participants on the most up-to-date disaster information and early warnings at the World Trade Center in Pasay City on Saturday.

Danny Pata

STRICTER

A Philippine Coast Guard officer inspects the passengers’ manifest inside a motorized banca that will transport residents of Talim Island from Binangonan Rizal Port on Saturday. It was at the same site of the MV Princess Aya tragedy that saw 27 die and 43 rescued from the capsized banca on Friday. Danny Pata

LAWMAKERS SET TO RECEIVE P5.76T NAT’L BUDGET PROPOSAL FOR 2023

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE House of Representatives is ready to receive Malacañan’s proposed P5.768 trillion national budget for 2024.

Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez said the money measure “is the most important piece of legislation” as he assured the people that “every centavo of the national budget will be spent wisely by ensuring that spending will contribute to economic and national development.”

Under the Constitution, all money measures of the national government emanate from the House.

“We will set clear priorities to arrive at decisions that would further promote sustainable growth aimed at uplifting the lives of Filipino people, enhancing public services, and making our economy strong and more agile,” Romualdez said.

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) is expected to submit to Congress the 2024 National Expenditures Program anytime next week.

The proposed national government budget for 2024 is equivalent to 21.8 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP) and is 9.5 percent higher than this year’s P5.268 trillion budget.

As in the previous year, Romualdez said that the chamber “will expeditiously scrutinize, deliberate, and pass the national budget through a transparent process.”

“Like last year, we will get the widest consensus on our spending plan among our members.

FOUNDATION GETS P55M GRANT FOR PH CLIMATE PROJECTS

THE Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) said it received a P55-million grant from the Australian government to implement the Resilient Emergency Communications for Enhanced Disaster Response project for climate-vulnerable local government units of Butuan in Agusan del Norte, Virac in Catanduanes and Borongan in Samar.

The PDRF, an alliance of businesses dedicated to building the disaster risk management capabilities of the private sector in the country, also hosted an operational briefing for the private sector on the effects of Typhoon Egay (international name: Doksuri).

It reported widespread flooding in MIMAROPA, Central Luzon, and Ilocos Region, with landslides also observed in the Cordillera Administrative Region.

PDRF said member companies Manila Water and Maynilad are monitoring dams and rivers; McDonald’s Kindness Kitchen and Jollibee Foods Corp. are monitoring stores in affected areas and are on standby to distribute hot meals to evacuation centers and PLDT and Smart are also sending packs of rice and hygiene kits.

Alagang Kapatid Foundation Inc. dispatched a team to Northern Luzon to distribute relief goods from Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc., One Meralco Foundation, Maynilad, Metro Pacific Investments Foundation, and Makati Medical Center Foundation. Lifeline utilities are mobilizing to restore services in Egay-affected areas in Northern Luzon, it said.

Launched at the PDRF Emergency Operations Center in Pampanga, Project REACHED is a two-year program that offers a solution to the recurring problem of establishing communications after a major disaster.

DENR WANTS BETTER LIVES FOR WASTE PICKERS

By Maricel V. Cruz

DEPARTMENT of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)

Secretary Antonia Loyzaga wants to empower waste pickers by improving their livelihood and ensuring their full integration into an evolving solid waste management sector.

NAIA TERMINAL 2 CAPACITY SEEN REACHING 10 MILLION PER YEAR

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2 can now serve up to 10 million passengers per year after management converted it into an exclusively domestic airport.

“With NAIA Terminal 2 now servicing all domestic flights of Philippine Airlines, AirAsia Philippines, and Royal Air Philippines, it can now accommodate up to 10 million passengers per annum from its design capacity of 7.5 million passengers per year,” said Bryan Co, acting general manager of Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) Co said the removal of immigration counters and other infrastructure mandated for international flight operations provided the needed space for unham-

pered passenger movement inside the terminal.

AirAsia and Royal Air passengers, who account for around 10,000 passengers per day on average, now have more space at Terminal 2.

This change also reduces congestion at Terminal 4 by 75 percent, providing adequate space for CebGo, AirSwift, and Sunlight Air passengers.

Terminal 2 began operations in 1999. It formerly houses both the international and domestic operations of the country’s flag carrier, Philippine Airlines (PAL).

MIAA came up with the Schedule and Terminal Assignment Rationalization, or STAR program, aimed at optimizing the capacity of the four NAIA terminals. This program entailed the

TRUMP TO RALLY AT SITE OF DEADLY ANTI-GOVERNMENT SIEGE IN WACO

reassignment of some international airlines from Terminal 1 to Terminal 3 and the moving all PAL international flights to Terminal 1.

The airport management had completed the program.

Air Asia Philippines chief executive officer Ricky Isla said the transfer to Terminal 2, which he described as “centennial terminal”, is a winning move while maintaining NAIA Terminal 3 for all their international flights.

“Our transfer to NAIA 2 is a winning move for our guests. They can now enjoy a bigger space and expect better airport service. Now that we are on the growth stage, we look forward to expanding further our domestic routes and capacity through this new terminal building,” he said.

Loyzaga cited the need to enhance the status and work conditions of the informal waste sector and to invest in capacity building to transform their vulnerability.

“This sector is still locked out of the value chain of solid waste management, but they are in fact, critical and essential as part of the supply chain,” Loyzaga said, speaking at the World Wildlife Fund for Nature-Philippines (WWF) media event in Quezon City.

“Through the EPR (extended producer responsibility) and the circular economy, there is an opportunity for us in government and for you all to promote social inclusion,” she added.

The informal waste sector in the Philippines includes waste pickers in dumpsites and communal waste collection points.

US PROVIDES TRAINING, EQUIPMENT TO TRANSPO SECURITY

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE United States-Transportation Security Administration (US-TSA) is set to provide additional training and equipment to the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) as part of its sustainable security initiatives.

This after US-TSA Assistant Administrator for International Operations Gary Renfrow made a visit to the office of Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista telling the latter that he was impressed about the improved aviation security in the Philippines and assured him of continued support for capacity development efforts for airport authorities.

“I think we’re making fantastic progress in terms of aviation security here in the Philippines. Our collaboration

has been particularly important in this progress, and we are committed to continuing that work,” Renfrow told Secretary Bautista. Bautista, for his part, assured the USTSA that the DOTr and OTS will continue to adopt the best practices in global aviation security to ensure passenger safety in airports.

“You have our commitment to see to it that we continue to adopt the best practices in the [aviation] industry. Our aviation industry now is back to pre-pandemic level here in the Philippines, so we must ensure the safety and security of all passengers,” Bautista said, addressing Assistant Administrator Renfrow and US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission in the Philippines Heather Variava.

The officials discussed challenges in

AGENCY

aviation security and how local airport officials are adopting techniques and methods to protect air transportation from various security threats. They also tackled other topics from security protocols to cutting-edge technology in the aviation industry.

The transport chief likewise cited the US government for its support to beef up aviation security in the Philippines, including the security screening equipment, training initiatives for OTS personnel, posting of aviation security advisors, and sponsorship of an airport observation visit to Indianapolis International Airport in the US.

Other officials who joined the meeting were DOTr Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports Roberto Lim, OTS Undersecretary Ma.O Aplasca and other TSA representatives.

TYPHOON AFTERMATH. The latest progress report from the City Agriculture Office of Batac, Ilocos Norte shows corn fields flattened due to Super Typhoon Egay. Total damages in agriculture reached more than P68 million in Ilocos. Batac CDRRMO

FLOODED ROAD. A resident uses a plastic basin to carry their goods across the flooded roads in Calumpit, Bulacan on Saturday. PAGASA said Tropical Storm Falcon has entered the Philippine area of responsibility and is forecast to become a typhoon tomorrow afternoon or evening and reach its peak intensity on late Monday or early Tuesday. Norman Cruz

IN BRIEF

‘RUSSIA’S SHOIGU SEEKS WEAPONS IN N. KOREA’

BRISBANE—Secretary of State

Antony Blinken on Saturday said that the United States believes Russia’s defense minister is in North Korea to secure supplies of weapons to aid the stalled invasion of Ukraine.

Following Sergei Shoigu’s arrival on a rare trip to Pyongyang, Blinken said that Russia is scrambling to buy arms from allies across the world.

“I strongly doubt he’s there on holiday,” Blinken told reporters in Australia.

“We’re seeing Russia desperately looking for support, for weapons, wherever it can find them to continue to prosecute its aggression against Ukraine,” he said.

“We see that in North Korea, we see that as well with Iran, which has provided many drones to Russia that it’s using to destroy civilian infrastructure and killed civilians in Ukraine.”

While in North Korea, Shoigu met the country’s leader Kim Jong Un, in what Pyongyang’s state media described as “a friendly talk.” AFP

TO REFILL STOCKPILES, US TO HELP AUSTRALIA MANUFACTURE MISSILES

BRISBANE—Washington will seek to bolster its shrinking weapons stockpiles by helping Australia develop a missile manufacturing and exporting industry, top officials said Saturday after high-level talks between the two countries.

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles announced the project after meetings in Brisbane with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin.

“We hope to see manufacturing of missiles commenced in Australia in two years’ time,” Marles

DESPITE LEGAL WOES, TRUMP SHARES IOWA STAGE WITH DESANTIS

DES MOINES—Former US president Donald Trump -- who has pledged to pursue his White House bid if convicted and sentenced in one of the cases engulfing his comeback bid -- on Friday shared a stage with his Republican rivals for the first time in Iowa.

Trump’s appearance at the party’s Lincoln Dinner fundraiser came as he faced new charges over his handling of classified government documents -- and a possible fresh indictment over his alleged efforts to overturn the result of the 2020 election.

The format of the Lincoln Dinner -- 10 minutes for each candidate -- kept the fireworks to a minimum, but the frontrunner did not shy away from telling the attendees what he thought of his main challenger, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

“I wouldn’t take a chance on that one,” Trump said after offering a barrage of poll data suggesting he would easily defeat incumbent President Joe Biden while DeSantis would lose against the veteran Democrat.

Trump offered a rapid-fire summary of his achievements while in office, from appointing three conservative-leaning Supreme Court justices to withdrawing US troops from Afghanistan, and only briefly alluded to his legal woes. AFP

told reporters, hailing the initiative as a boost to his country’s defence and industrial base.

“We are really pleased with the steps that we are taking in respect of establishing a guided weapons and explosive ordnance enterprise in this country,” he added.

The project will see Australia develop guided multiple launch rocket systems, or GMLRS.

Austin said the plan would help the United States “sharpen our technological edge and strengthen our defence industrial base”.

Washington will now work to help Australia build a fledgling domestic missile industry almost from scratch, with an eye to securing a reliable pipeline for its own armed forces down the track.

The war in Ukraine has exposed weaknesses in many Western military supply chains and has steadily depleted stocks of missiles and other

munitions.

Australia is currently embarking on its own armed forces overhaul, pivoting towards longrange strike capabilities in an effort to keep wouldbe foes such as China at arm’s length.

Increased tempo

The two-day Australia-US meeting that ended on Saturday was heavily focused on regional security and military cooperation, as the longtime allies work to curb China’s growing power in the Pacific region.

The talks were partially overshadowed when an Australian MRH-90 Taipan military helicopter crashed in subtropical waters off the coast of Queensland late Friday, prompting the suspension of a major military exercise between the two countries.

The four crew members are still missing and concern is growing for their wellbeing. AFP

ARMY GENERAL NAMES SELF NIGER’S LEADER

NIAMEY, Niger—The Niger general who staged a coup on Friday declared himself the new leader of the jihadist-hit African nation and warned that any foreign military intervention would lead to chaos.

General Abdourahamane Tchiani, head of the Presidential Guard since 2011, appeared on state television, saying he was the “president of the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland”.

The general, who is in his 50s and had previously kept out of public life, presented the coup as a response to “the degradation of the security situation” linked to jihadist bloodshed.

He questioned “the sense and scope of a security approach to the fight against terrorism which excludes any real collaboration with Burkina Faso and Mali” -- neighbours which face similar threats.

But the putschists, who have faced international condemnation for taking power from a democratically elected president, also warned of “the consequences that will flow from any foreign military intervention”. AFP

UKRAINE: 9 WOUNDED IN NEW DNIPRO STRIKE

KYIV—A Russian missile struck an apartment block in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Friday, Kyiv officials said, injuring at least nine people including two children. “Dnipro. Another terrorist attack,” said Sergiy Kruk, head of the Ukrainian State Emergency Service, on Telegram.

“Currently, we know of 9 injured, including two children. Work continues.”

Internal Affairs Minister Igor Klymenko earlier reported “a Russian strike on a multistorey building in Dnipro”, saying five people had been injured.

Videos posted on social media showed smoke billowing from the top floors of a residential building that had been badly damaged.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said: “Dnipro. Friday evening. A highrise building and the Security Service of Ukraine’s building were hit. Russian missile terror again”. AFP

US SETS $345M MILITARY AID PACK FOR TAIWAN

WASHINGTON—The United States on Friday unveiled a $345 million military aid package for Taiwan designed to quickly bolster the island’s ability to deter a Chinese invasion.

The package -- which an official said features intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance equipment, and small arms munitions -- will be drawn from the US’ own reserves, allowing it to be delivered on a faster-than-usual timeline.

These are “capabilities that Taiwan will be able to use to bolster deterrence now and in the future,” a Pentagon spokesperson said.

Elements of the package “address critical defensive stockpiles, multidomain awareness, anti-armor, and

air defense capabilities,” he added. “We are working expeditiously to deliver the military assistance announced today.”

Taiwan’s defense ministry thanked Washington “for its staunch commitment to Taiwan’s security.”

“The Presidential Drawdown Authority is another important support for Taiwan’s self-defense in addition to weapons sales,” ministry spokesman Sun Li-fang said.

“Taiwan and the US will continue to cooperate closely in safety issues in order to maintain peace, stability, and the status quo in the Taiwan Strait.”

Congress has authorized President Joe Biden to draw aid for Taiwan from American military stocks -- the same

way that Washington has provided large quantities of assistance to Ukraine since Russia invaded in February 2022.

In the past year, the Chinese military has held two major drills around Taiwan, simulating targeted strikes and a blockade of the island.

China, which is an increasingly assertive diplomatic and military power, claims the democratic, selfruled island of Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to take it, by force if necessary.

A statement from the White House announced the package of “defense articles and services of the Department of Defense, and military education and training, to provide assistance to Taiwan.” AFP

constitution, in Paris on March 23.

RUSSIA-AFRICA SUMMIT. Russian President Vladimir Putin and a number of African leaders hold a meeting on Ukraine at the second Russia-Africa summit in Saint Petersburg on July 28.

ALLIES DOWN UNDER. Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin (from left) attend a press conference at Queensland Government House in Brisbane on July 29. AFP

ENTREPRENEUR SUSTAINS FAMILY LEGACY, CREATES TIMELESS HANDBAGS

THIRD-GENERATION entrepreneur

Jennifer Lo has developed a discerning eye for aesthetics growing up with a family who appreciates and creates useful arts.

Her pursuit of beauty and artistry led her to complete a short course on Manufacturing Management at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles in 2006. She had worked with various fashion companies before coming back to the Philippines to help in her mother’s handbag business.

After nearly 40 years in the business since it was established in 1984, Makati City-based Larone Crafts Inc. continues to be a leading artisanal maker of finelycrafted handbag pieces.

Lo has sustained the family legacy, taking over the business after getting herself acquainted with several foreign brands in the US while polishing her knowledge of the local industry.

“I’m the steward of my parents’ and grandparents’ hard work. My goal is to make the business sustainable for another 20 years,” Lo said. She recalled how she, as a young child, helped her mom look over the business during trade shows and exhibits.

The designs are modern concepts weaved into the traditional Filipino nuances by incorporating the indigenous T’nalak and the woven fabric Inabel. Natural plant fibers such as abaca, raffia and seagrass—sourced from all parts of the Philippines—add indigenous charm to Larone Crafts. The results are timeless accessories that buyers can keep in their wardrobes season after season.

“The bags are meant to be used all year-round. We do not make items that are just for a certain season to be thrown away the next. We manufacture them to last,” Lo said.

Global market

The agility of Larone Crafts in staying abreast with technological advancements and design trends has built a stable relationship with foreign buyers and established a successful export market for the brand over the years. successful brand

It first exports in 1984 went to the United States. Back then, Lo was three years old.

“I can see how conducting international business during times when the Internet was not yet existing must have been quite a challenge,” said Lo, expressing her appreciation for the ease and speed that technological advancement has brought about over the years.

Lo joined the company in 2009, as she stepped up to evolving market trends. Following the pandemic, Larone’s largest export base remained the US at 90 percent, while the EU market accounted for 3 percent. The rest is a mix of niche clients from other countries.

Gov’t support

For the longest time, the only way to start an international business was through participation in trade fairs— which is not an easy thing to do alone.

Larone Crafts has been part of the Manila FAME almost every year since the 1980s. Participation at Maison et Objet, NY Now and Ambiente over the last 10 years were also sweet and fruitful.

The business has received support from the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions, the export promotion arm of the Department of Trade and Industry, to participate in international trade shows in the EU and the US. Before the age of internet and emails, this was the only way of gaining new overseas customers.

Lo felt that her company’s participation in trade shows was instrumental in reaching customers, particularly in the EU.

CITEM’s support in terms of product design and pre-show marketing has been invaluable in upgrading her business. “These are all high costs that would be difficult for our small business to absorb when initially trying to enter into a new market.”

GSP+ for the EU

Larone Crafts is one of the many Filipino enterprises that have successfully utilized the EU GSP+ platform to their advantage. “The EU GSP + makes our products more competitive in the European market by reducing the cost of importing our goods into the country for our buyers. It improves access to the 27 countries in the EU,” Lo said.

Larone Crafts is exporting to Spain and the Netherlands, with samples sent recently to Italy, to generate more brand awareness and outright orders.

She gives credit to the Arise Plus Philippines project which enables Philippine exporters to take advantage of European Union market access and the trade privileges granted under the Generalized System of Preference (GSP+). It supports the overall EUPhilippines trade relationship and trade-related policies.

Leaving no one behind As Lo works towards expanding her product assortment in home and lifestyle products, she is cognizant of those who work for her. Depending upon the volume of orders, in any given season, Larone Crafts employs about 100 workers.

She did not only retain artisan families employed during her parent’s management days, but she continues

GOTYME BANK OFFERS ‘PREFERRED SERVICE’ TO DEPOSITORS

THE Philippines’ fastest growing bank, GoTyme Bank, strives to travel the extra mile to offer a “preferred” banking experience” to clients. GoTyme Bank’s unique approach provides all clients with “preferred” service, first and foremost, by humanizing the mundane, transactional, and often tedious experience of banking.

to source supplies from small businesses that employ women.

“We work with weavers and artisans in their communities from all over the Philippines, giving them a reliable livelihood and helping to preserve the region’s traditional crafts,” she said. Othel

V. Campos

BATANGAS HOSPITAL REBRANDS UNDER HMN NETWORK

AYALA Healthcare Holdings Inc. (AC Health) unveiled a new branding for Daniel O. Mercado Medical Center, now known as Healthway Daniel O. Mercado Medical Center.

The unveiling came after the rebranding launches of Healthway QualiMed Hospital Santa Rosa, Healthway QualiMed Hospital San Jose del Monte, Healthway QualiMed Hospital Iloilo, and Healthway QualiMed Manila. The series of signage unveiling ceremonies signals the integration of all of AC Health’s hospitals and clinics under the Healthway Medical Network (HMN) brand.

“We aspire to leverage the history and experience of DMMC as we execute on our “Connected Care Circle” program. Through its leadership in the hospital network, we are able to structure our healthcare delivery to respond to the

“If you strip away all the apps and the branches and everything else from banking in general, it’s a trust game, and the Gokongwei name is accelerating customer adoption. Most importantly, I think the reason we’ve had early success is our unique model. We are doing a very humanled digital model of digital banking,” said GoTyme president and CEO Nate Clarke, highlighting its partnership with the Gokongwei Group. GoTyme Bank has been operating in the Philippines for 9 months but managed to grow with a trajectory that promises to hit the 1 millionth customer mark by August 2023. Clarke said GoTyme’s “preferred banking experience” is limited to the top 5 percent of consumers, in particular, those bringing in millions of pesos to the business.

With many traditional transactions now facilitated through apps and chatbots, GoTyme’s unexpected but much-appreciated edge is its human-led, “phygital” onboarding and continued client servicing.

“With GoTyme Bank, you can go to any Robinsons supermarket or department store, and you’ll be greeted by a smiling bank ambassador who will help you open an account and get a Visa debit card in under five minutes using our kiosk,” Clarke said.

PH LEADING CAREER PLATFORM WELCOMES NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR

SEEK, the parent company of leading online employment marketplaces JobStreet and JobsDB, announced the appointment of Dannah Majarocon as JobStreet Philippines’ managing director, effective July 2023.

“I’m very confident that our team will be able to continue making a difference in the Philippines and take JobStreet to the next level to help more Filipinos find meaningful and fulfilling working lives. I do hope to be able to drive a significant impact on more talent in the market—most importantly, the under supported blue-collar and freelance workers in the country,” said Majarocon. Majarocon has held various leadership roles in then Philippine tech space in the last 11 years, and one of the most challenging was with Lalamove Philippines as managing director and consultant.

Prior to Lalamove Philippines, she has worked with Mynt, which operates GCash and Fuse Lending, as well as Globe Telecom, a major telco player in the country. She spent her career managing overall P&L, business operations, and strategy, driving stellar performance to multiple fast-growing companies.

Circles,” HMN’s innovative integrated care model within the network.

The “Care Beyond Cure” promise is a pledge of commitment to provide human-centric care, going beyond addressing the patient’s medical wellness, and overall wellbeing. Meanwhile, the “Connected Care Circles” offers high-quality, coordinated care throughout the patient journey.

In her role, Majarocon will be responsible for implementing business strategies, ensuring a robust and forward-looking framework while driving growth for the company.

JobStreet Philippines’ managing director Dannah Majarocon

backed by a network of expert doctors and nurses.

The rebranding comes with a promise to deliver “Care Beyond Cure” anchored on “Connected Care

HMN officials opens the new Healthway DMMC (from left) are AC Health president and CEO Paolo Borromeo, Tanauan City Mayor Sonny Perez Collantes, Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) senior vice president and AC Health board director Mariana Zobel de Ayala, AC managing director and corporate resources group head Francisco ‘Paco’ Romero Milán, and Healthway DMMC COO Edwin Magsino needs of our patients across the entire health continuum in an integrated manner,” said Heathway Medical Network (HMN) CEO Jaime Ysmael, adding that the entire HMN system is

Healthway QualiMed DMMC serves as the legacy hospital of the group with 66 years of service in the communities of Tanauan and nearby cities and municipalities. The hospital was founded by Dr. Daniel O. Mercado in 1957, starting as a 12-bed lying in facility, now it serves more than 120 inpatient beds and continues to expand its range of services and training programs.

GoTyme president and CEO Nate Clarke

Sustainable enterpreneurs Jennifer Lo and Mom showcasing timeless Larone purses.

Larone Crafts incorporates modern and indigenous designs to create classic handbags.

ON THE ROAD

YOUR TICKET TO ‘ASENSO’: CHANGAN ALSVIN TAXI ALL DRESSED UP, READY TO GO

THE Changan Alsvin 1.4L 5MT may become your upcoming business companion - especially when we talk about Taxi or TNVS services. The public had the chance to learn about the Alsvin’s several features that allow for a secure and enjoyable city ride when it made its debut at the Biyahenyong Aasenso Showcase early in July:

• Sleek design with projector halogen-type headlamps with up/down adjustment

• Load capacity: 382L trunk capacity, which is notably spacious for a sedan

• Passenger amenities : Seating capacity for 5; A/C with PM 0.1 air filter; multimedia system with 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth and USB connectivity and video playback

•

maximum of 135 Nm/35004500 RPM. Its highly efficient, stable and reliable engine effectively reduces exhaust emission and fuel consumption.

• Safety : Dual Front Airbags; Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake- Force Distribution (EBD) reverse camera; Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS); Child Safety Lock; ISOFIX; seatbelt reminder; keyless entry; adjustable Follow-me-home headlamps that you can set to stay “ON” from 10 to 120 seconds to provide a safe path while parking in a dim or dark area.

• Hassle-free ownership: Enjoy LASTING SAFETY care of Changan’s Vital 5 After-Sales package: one year warranty or 100,000 km (whichever comes first); Changan Pacesetter roadside assistance and towing service; Changan Fastlane’s 60-minute service guarantee with free PMS Labor for the 1st year or first 20,000KM (whichever comes first); Changan Veloservice for convenient online booking of service appointments; and quick and efficient assistance from CAIA, Changan’s AI Chatbot. The Changan Alsvin is prepared to utilize all of its resources to instantly help you as a trustworthy business partner. Know more about Changan at www. changanphil.com, follow the brand on facebook.com/ ChanganPhil or get in touch with the Changan dealer nearest you.

A PROPER WORK-LIFE BALANCE ACHIEVED WITH THE HONDA CLICK125

THERE is no doubt that things are getting back to the way they were before the COVID outbreak. That is, for the most part, at least. There are signs everywhere you look: More individuals are going out to eat, traveling outside of the city, shopping, attending events and parties, and yes, returning to on-site employment.

As a business that cherishes its workers, Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI) upholds the idea that a healthy work-life balance is crucial to preserving employee morale and productivity. And to that end, HPI explains why the CLICK125 is the best motorcycle when the workforce returns to a more on-site working environment, whether it be a fully on-site setup or a hybrid work environment..

You must work, that much is true. True, you put in a lot of time at the office. However, as quickly and promptly you get at work on required days has an impact on how productive you can be, allowing you to spend more time on the things that are actually important to you, such as family time and “me” time.

The CLICK125 boasts a 4-Stroke, 2-Valve, SOHC,

Liquid Cooled, eSP engine technology with an ACG starter to deliver a maximum torque of 10.8Nm at 5,000 rpm and an output of 8.2kW at 8,500 rpm. Additionally, its wide cushion seat provides you with a ton of comfort on extended rides. The bike is suited for shorter riders due to its 769 mm seat height.

In addition, it boasts Honda’s Combi Brake System, often known as CBS, for improved control and stability when decelerating, which is crucial when weaving through traffic on the way to and

from work. It also has wider tubeless tires for more accurate handling while preserving a fashionable appearance. To keep you safe from other drivers, the bike’s all-LED headlights, taillights, and winkers offer outstanding visibility.

With CLICK125, quick leisure trips are something you can do in a heartbeat and with less worry on the budget. With an efficiency rating of 50.3Km/L, unmatched economy is achieved. In addition, its PGM-FI technology provides outstanding power and driveability, while reducing fuel emissions without compromising fuel efficiency.

Additionally, its 18L luggage compartment can accommodate all of your personal items. It also features a built-in USB charger so you can always take advantage of the opportunity to take those crucial selfies wherever you are.

Who is to say that you cannot have your cake and eat it, too? The Php80,900.00 CLICK125 is the ideal bike for maintaining that crucial work-life balance. Owning one is simple and straightforward because it is offered at all Honda Dealers across the country.

OIL,

OH SO PRECIOUS

HEARING about a small company prospering in the country’s very competitive oil industry while competing with industrial giants is simply astonishing.

In Valle Verde 1, Pasig City, Seaoil just opened its 750th oil station at the intersection of C5 and Atis Ugong. Before the year is over, it will reportedly add another 100 stations, bringing the total to 850.

What a success story, as Seaoil is competing successfully with the Big 3 of the oil sector, Petron, Shell, and Caltex. When the local oil sector was deregulated, a number of independent fuel businesses emerged, but Seaoil is the largest and is quickly gaining favor with drivers who are looking for affordable but highquality fuel.

“We take great pride in the work we’ve done to inspire Filipinos to look forward to a better tomorrow. Our clients may expect more efforts in the years to come because we haven’t finished yet,” Glenn Yu, CEO of Seaoil, who had persevered greatly in positioning his company side-by-side with the titans in the local oil industry over the course of several decades, stated, -000While we’re on the subject of the local oil industry, many drivers are in disbelief over the nearly weekly increase in gas and diesel costs.

We are aware that this is a direct effect of the long-ago-enacted deregulation of oil pricing, which mandates price changes based on weekly prices on the global market.Since they were the ones who knew it, it is unknown how these are calculated by the various companies. Why different gas stations offer different types of prices on their respective websites continues to baffle many people.

When purchasing fuel near San Juan, you may expect to pay significantly less. However, it is already a different scenario when I cross the line and travel outside, say to Mandaluyong, Manila, or Quezon City. When compared to the next adjacent station that uses a different fuel name, there are times when one gas station offers a very pricey set of prices.

Many people wonder if the authorities are monitoring this or if each station can establish its own prices in accordance with its own preferences or if they are still constrained by the fixed prices for that specific week.

MOVE IT MOVES FORWARD WITH PROFESSIONALIZING HABAL-HABAL RIDERS

THE locally based motorcycle taxi service provider MOVE IT is actively working to professionalize the habal-habal industry. The problems preventing habal-habal riders from becoming skilled motorcycle taxi personnel were discussed by MOVE IT General Manager Wayne Jacinto with hundreds of riders and leaders through a series of conferences and discussions.

The government has called for solutions to safety, security, and cost issues with habal-habal activities across the nation, and MOVE IT’s project is a timely response. MOVE IT is proactively walking the grounds towards the professionalization of habal-habal riders as the MC Taxi industry aims for maximum safety, dependability, and professionalization of unlicensed motorcycle taxis for hire.

Habal-habal drivers discussed the

difficulties they regularly encounter during the pilot forum, particularly those associated with fulfilling the requirements necessary to be recognized as professional MC cab drivers. The guests did, however, agree that their devotion to safety is what motivates them to pursue careers as motorcycle taxi professionals.

In order to help habal-habal riders integrate into the official MC Taxi industry, MOVE IT made the fundamental promise to help them earn professional licenses. Additionally, habal-habal drivers were invited to head straight to the assessment area for a quick skills evaluation and validation if they met all the requirements.

It is anticipated that those who passed the test will be officially onboarded as MOVE IT rider-partners.

In order to help its rider partners achieve financial stability, MOVE IT provides a

range of rewarding earning opportunities and perks, such as low commission rates, aggressive incentive programs, all-inclusive insurance plans, and exclusive discounts on rider necessities. Additionally, MOVE IT’s rider partners are equipped to deliver professional and efficient motorcycle taxi services thanks to rigorous safety and tech training sessions.

The government’s aim of professionalized, safe, and dependable motorcycle taxi services is being adopted by MOVE IT’s innovative initiatives to professionalize the habalhabal sector, marking a significant advancement for MC Taxi and the larger transportation sector. The evolution of habal-habal riders into reputable MC Taxi experts will definitely usher in an exciting new chapter for the Philippine transportation environment as MOVE IT’s forums and debates progress.

Glenn Yu, CEO of Seaoil

AUCKLAND—The Filipinas will go all out to stretch their amazing run as they face mighty Norway on Sunday for a place in the top 16 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup in New Zealand.

“It is unbelievable to think that we are in this position. Any neutral person around the world would have not put any money on us to be in this position,” said Stajcic.

Their position ahead of their foes gives his over-acheving Filipinas a different kind of high even as they entered the tournament as underdogs.

“To be ahead of Norway in the league table after two matches is almost unheard of from any neutral pundit. We have earned the right to be in that position so that gives me a lot of belief and con dence.”

“They (the Filipinas) have earned the right to feel like that, in this position to feel con dent and that they can put points on the board.”

The ustralian coac is wary, however, of the “wounded” Norway squad.

“I’m wary of the wounded animal. They (Norway) have taken a hit to

NO TURNING BACK FOR AMAZING FILIPINAS

their pride and I expect them to come out ghting. They are (former World Cup) champions for a reason. They have a ghtback in them so we have to be ready for that,” Stajcic said after the team’s workout at Olympic Park.

Earlier tipped as group favorites, the celebrated Grasshoppers are in last place with just point following their 0-1 setback to the Ferns here last week and a scoreless standoff to Switzerland in Hamilton last Tuesday.

In contrast, the surprising Filipinas are running third with three points following their 1-0 upset of the Ferns in Wellington, acutely aware that a second straight win guarantees them a place in the knockout round-of-16.

The hosts, who also have three points as Stajcic’s charges but are in second place on goal di erence, battle the pacesetting Swiss in Dunedin simultaneously, with the winner likewise advancing outright into the knockout stage.

The Aussie mentor remained respectful of their formidable foes, saying: “They are former World Cup winners (in 1995), they are former Olympic gold medalists, the pedigree within the country and women’s football is enormous.

“You have a Ballon d’Or winner in Ada Hegerberg, they have players playing at the highest level at Barcelona, who are probably their best players. They may be ranked No. 12 now but they have been in the top 10 for the past 20 to 30 years. They are fantastic.”

He noted that Hegerberg, who pulled out of the game against Switzerland due to a groin injury, could be back in harness “because she’s a champion and she has

PSC LINKS UP WITH SOUTH AFRICA, HOSTS BOXING EXHIBITION AT RMSC

MARKING 30 years of the country’s diplomatic relations with South Africa, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) opened its doors to Ambassador Bartinah Ntombizodwa RadebeNetshitenzhe and Department of Foreign A airs (DFA) Deputy Assistant Secretary Marlowe Miranda by hosting boxing exhibition matches this at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

In his welcome speech, PSC Commissioner Matthew “Fritz” Gaston welcomed the guests and bared that, “this gathering is not only to strengthen the growing partnership between the Philippines and South Africa, but to also honor the legacy of former President and renowned activist Nelson Mandela, who loved sports and its great impact on society.”

“Sports diplomacy is a very good way to improve relations between countries. We wish for more sports exchanges and skills development initiatives between our two countries to provide opportunities for our youth to get into sports,” added Gaston.

The lady ambassador, for her part, thanked the sports agency and the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines, Inc. (ABAP) for hosting the

foodpanda, NBA TEAM UP FOR BALL LIKE A PANDA EVENT

LEADING online food and grocery platform foodpanda recently rounded up a series of activities as part of its ongoing partnership with the National Basketball Association (NBA).

As NBA’s first Official Online Food Delivery Platform Partner in the Philippines, foodpanda co-hosted various NBA tentpole events and launched promotions providing foodpanda app users the chance to win bona fide NBA prizes and exclusive perks.

The premier sports league and leading food and grocery platform o cially launched their partnership last February of this year, teaming up to bring convenience and sports entertainment in just a few taps.

earned the right to be a champion. You don’t get to be a Player of the Year Award unless you are an amazing footballer.

“We have an immense amount of respect for her and the team. It’s going to be a big challenge.”

The Philippines was an overwhelming group underdog until the stunning win over New Zealand, throwing the race for the two round-of-16 slots wide open until the last day of group play.

Stajic was generally satisfied with the squad’s workout, noting that “the team is good spirits. Everyone is focused and ready for the challenge that lies ahead.”

Together for the last 18 months, “one of the strengths of this team is that we are able to refocus so quickly. And there is a real sense of maturity around this team and around that process that is one of the strengths of this team,” according to the coach.

boxing matches to honor Mandela, an amateur boxer in his early years.

“We are hoping to complete a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the PSC, towards the goal of using sports as a unifying tool to spread tolerance and love amongst others. Both South Africa and the Philippines have su ered centuries of oppression, but this did not, however, take away the Filipino’s inherent ghting spirit,” added Netshitenzhe.

Ten boxers from the national training pool, put together by ABAP Secretary General Marcus Manalo, showcased their boxing skills in ve boxing matches in the flyweight, featherweight and bantamweight classes at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

South African Embassy Counsellor Ms. Chantelle Naidoo, Tourism and Marketing O cer Ms. Ellen Vega, PSC Acting Executive Director Atty. Guillermo Iroy Jr. and Deputy Executive Director Ms. Anna Christine Abellana were also present during the exhibition.

National athletes and officials from ABAP, together with PSC Commissioner Matthew “Fritz” Gaston, Executive Director Atty. Guillermo Iroy Jr., South African Embassy to the Philippines Ambassador Bartinah Ntombizodwa Radebe-Netshitenzhe and ABAP SecGen Marcus Manalo.

FIBA WORLD CUP ORGANIZERS, DOT JOIN HANDS TO TAKE FANS ‘FROM COURTSIDE TO PARADISE’

THE Philippines will wear its Puso on its proverbial sleeve, as it hosts the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 with the backing of the national government, through the Department of Tourism (DOT).

The DOT will give fans reasons to love the Philippines by marrying world-class basketball with world-class experiences in 15 destinations through travel packages available from August 1 to September 30.

“We see the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 as an opportunity to, rst and foremost, re-introduce the Philippines to the world on the strength of its natural assets, award-winning destinations, and cities on the rise,” said DOT Sec. Christina Frasco at the o cial launch on Tuesday.

“This is also the time for Filipinos to come together to support the Philippine team, as well as a chance for citizens of

the world to remember their sense of nationhood.”

While the action gets going in the world meet to be played at Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City and SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay, tourism experiences to Bacolod, Batangas, Bohol, Boracay, Cavite, Cebu, Davao, Ilocos Norte and Sur, Iloilo, La Union, Manila, Palawan, Pampanga, and Tagaytay promise to give a taste of colorful and wonderful Filipino culture.

Several travel packages to go “from courtside to paradise” are already available at discoverphilippines.travel with credit cards, GCash, Maya, and GrabPay as payment options.

This is very much in line with both the FIBA LOC and DOT’s aim of sharing the Philippines’ love for basketball and for life to the whole world.

According to foodpanda Philippines Growth and Marketing Director Patricia Jacinto, the partnership is one of the concrete examples of how one can “Live Like a Panda,” the company’s overarching brand philosophy, which encourages people to free up their time and energy to pursue what matters to them. “This partnership truly makes for a dream team, and we are happy to let people experience the engaging activities we have prepared,”said Jacinto.

“As Filipinos are known to be huge basketball fans, we want to leverage on the fiery passion local consumers have for the sport and position foodpanda as the preferred online food delivery choice in the country,” she added.

Score to Soar

Last March, foodpanda commenced the Ball Like a Panda ra e, where app users can enjoy the wide range of services foodpanda has, whether it’s food, grocery, shops, or pick-up, and get entries to qualify for a chance to win an NBA League Pass and watch an NBA Playo s game live. JP Alejandro was the lucky winner who won an all-expense paid trip to the USA and ful lled his dream of watching a live NBA game last May. “I was super excited when I learned I won because I’ve always been a huge fan of the NBA. Good thing, I’m also an avid foodpanda user so it’s a win-win for me. Thank you so much to foodpanda. This is a dream come true,” said JP.

NBA Finals Watch Pau-rty

To further promote the partnership, foodpanda hosted an NBA Finals Watch Party in line with the “Live Like a Panda” campaign to invite basketball fans and foodies alike to enjoy the game together.

The watch party featured the pivotal match-up between the Denver Nuggets and the Miami Heat during the NBA Finals Game 4. The event was held last June 10 to 11, 2023, at Eastwood Central Plaza, which offered a variety of fan activities and treats for viewers. While watching the game, attendees enjoyed free meals, popcorn, pink cocktails, customizable NBA co-branded shirts for pandapro subscribers, and assorted Pau-Pau merchandise.

The event was also attended by celebrities and in uencers, including JV De Vera, Prince Carlos, Gab Lagman, and Ayn Bernos taking part in showing what it means to “Live like a panda.” Ball Like a Panda 3x3 Basketball Tournament

Lastly, foodpanda launched its rst ever 3-on-3 basketball tournament with special participation from celebrities (Rayver Cruz, Gab Lagman, Eric “Eruption”Tai, Mikee Reyes, Wilbert Ross, Juancho Triviño, Prince Carlos, and Prince Clemente) and Ka-pandas (John Rene Alcanzo, Leonnel Clint Baldo, Je rey Diaz, Jason Carl Baldo) who put their game faces on and heightened everyone’s spirits.

(L-R) PSC Deputy Executive Director Anna Christine Abellena, PSC Commissioner Matthew “Fritz” Gaston, South African Embassy to the Philippines Ambassador Bartinah Ntombizodwa Radebe-Netshitenzhe, DFA-OMEAA Deputy Assistant Secretary Marlowe Miranda, ABAP SecGen Marcus Jarwin Manalo and Embassy Counsellor Ms. Chantelle Naidoo at the Nelson Mandela Boxing Exhibition at Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

The Filipinas need all the support they can get to stretch their historic campaign in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.

Photo from FIFA

Coach Alen Stajcic shares his thoughts after the Filipinas’ workout at Olympic Park in Auckland.

FOSTERING FAMILY VALUES IN THE

CITY

INDIVIDUALS in public service know that their position can be daunting, but it’s also an opportunity to use their platforms to promote positivity among their followers or supporters.

This approach makes the Tiangco brothers, Navotas Mayor John Rey and Rep. Tobias “Toby” Tiangco, well-loved by their constituents. For years, they worked together to bring the best opportunities for Navoteños and find new ways to leverage resources to benefit the public.

UPLIFTING NAVOTAS

MAYOR JOHN REY TIANGCO’S UNWAVERING PASSION FOR PUBLIC SERVICE

By Patricia Taculao

IN the northwest part of Metro Manila lies Navotas, a rst-class city recognized as the Fishing Capital of the Philippines with a population of almost 250,000. Nearly 70 percent of its residents work in the shing industry, with the Navotas Fish Port as the landing ground for most commercial shing boats in the country. And there’s still much for the city to achieve.

Leading the charge to progress and development is Navotas City Mayor John Rey Tiangco, whom Navotas residents, or Navoteños, know his brand of public service–dedicated and sincere.

He rst held the position from 2010 to 2019, when his brother, now Navotas Representative Tobias “Toby” Tiangco, nished his three terms as city mayor. The incumbent Navotas mayor shared that he had no plans of running for a position in public service, but all that changed when he acted as a representative for the private sector in one of the public schools in the Department of Education (DepEd)’s School Governing Council (SGC).

While there, he saw the students’ plight and schools’ conditions, which struck a personal note for Tiangco.

“My father, when he was in elementary, went to one of the public schools here. His family was lucky to have the opportunity given by the city. That inspired me, and I felt it as an obligation to give back,” Tiangco told Manila Standard LGU.

Tiangco eventually took the chance to lead the city when his brother stepped down as mayor, continuing the work he had begun. In 2010, Tiangco adopted the slogan “Navotas, NavotaAs!

Itaas ang antas ng buhay Navoteño,” which remains the de ning factor and guide for his actions and decisions as the city’s executive head.

He vowed to prioritize health, education, livelihood, peace and order, and housing projects in the city. For instance, most of the city’s housing projects focus on providing residents living in subpar conditions with a better environment to thrive in, like those who dwelled in house-on-stilts.

Before moving to the housing units, they were prone to the dangers of inclement weather and lack of necessary resources, often having to evacuate for their safety. Tiangco shared their joy when they moved to the new housing units, knowing his constituents are in better circumstances.

Another project Navoteños demanded is a public hospital, which Tiangco almost immediately provided as its construction began in 2014.

Nakita natin na nagbibigay serbisyo sa mga tao. Natutuwa sila na mayroon na silang mapupuntahan na mas malapit na ospital. Marami kasing iba’t ibang programna ginagawa at medyo holistic ang approach niya,” Tiangco said.

In the meantime, his education and livelihood programs also bore signi cant results as he saw

Navotas Mayor John Rey Tiangco (right) and National Housing Authority General Manager Joeben Tai sign the deed of donation and acceptance for the Super Health Center and Bahay Kalinga in Brgy. NBBS in the city. Andrew Rabulan

how they helped the Navoteños improve their ways of life. Tiangco added that the city’s training centers equipped the residents with the necessary skills and values to secure jobs after graduation.

Presently, Tiangco nds ways to improve the projects he implemented for the various sectors he vowed to prioritize years ago, always considering the public’s demands by giving them a voice through several avenues, such as representatives during meetings and a feedback platform.

Given the success of his projects and programs, Tiangco can claim that he’s an e ective public leader. Yet he keeps his feet planted rmly on the ground.

“You have to be humble enough to accept that you don’t know everything so that you’re willing to learn and understand and get the help of others,” the Navotas Mayor said, adding that there’s more to achieve when people work together.

Under Tiangco’s leadership, Navoteños saw numerous improvements in their city while equipping residents with the necessary tools and equipment to lead better lives. As an individual, his humility and passion for what he does amplify the positive results he brings, making him a trusted household name within the city.

NAVOTAS FISHERMEN RECEIVE NEW EQUIPMENT FROM CITY GOV’T

THE Navotas City government, led by Mayor John Rey Tiangco and Rep. Tobias “Toby” Tiangco, distributed new shing equipment, including a 30-feet NavoBangka equipped with a 16-horsepower engine and nets, to 30 registered shermen.

It’s part of the Tiangco brothers’ NavoBangka-buhayan program, which began in 2018 to support Navotas shermen, given the city’s recognition as the “Fishing Captial of the Philippines.” Also present during the distribution was the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) - NCR Regional Director Noemi SB. Lanzuela to share her support in empowering local fisherfolk to boost the local fishing industry and economy.

After years of working handin-hand, the Tiangco brothers now function like a well-oiled machine, developing programs and projects that undoubtedly improve the lives of their constituents.

Their relationship is one built on mutual understanding and dedication to public service. They both know they can function best with each other’s support, eliminating drama around sibling rivalry.

“It’s not really important that I make my own name for myself. It doesn’t matter if I’m known as Mayor John Rey or the brother of Cong. Toby. What’s important is we deliver our services, and I think that’s one of the things I’m very proud of,” the incumbent Navotas Mayor said.

We’re not competing with each other. In fact, when it comes to projects, we complement each other. What’s important is we have one vision, one objective, and that’s to uplift the lives of Navoteños.

For instance, when the incumbent mayor feels he needs more support before implementing a project within the city, he turns to his brother to ask for help securing resources from the national government or finding other institutions that share in their vision.

Their work relationship brings notable results, as evident in the latest RP-Mission and Development Foundation Inc.’s (RPMD) survey on the first-year performance of Metro Manila mayors and representatives, wherein the district representative and mayor bagged the first and second spots.

The Tiangco brothers are consistently at the top of independent surveys by RPMD, conducted regularly to foster accountability, transparency, and effective governance in the country.

Part of the experience is how their brotherhood fostered a sense of camaraderie in their city, making Navoteños feel like they’re part of one big, happy family that looks after each other.

In Navotas, Tiangco can proudly say that they’re one big family. He hopes his presence and efforts in the city inspired the Navoteños to look after each other from the administration to the basic unit of society–families–as they work together to uplift themselves and reach new heights. Patricia Taculao

Although he has a right to brag, the Navotas City Mayor values humility, knowing that the city’s success is a result of the collaborative efforts of the LGU and

other stakeholders

Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco (left) handing out certificates to the registered fishermen

Navotas fishermen (fourth and fifth from left) posing with government officials and the new boat engine they received from the NavoBangka-buhayan program

LIFE

NEW RPG SETS TREND IN MOBILE GAMING WORLD

By Nickie Wang

HOYOVERSE’S latest game, Honkai: Star Rail, has taken the gaming world by storm, achieving an astounding 20 million downloads worldwide during its first week. With a track record of creating captivating and narrative-driven games like Genshin Impact and Honkai Impact, HoYoverse has built a reputation for excellence.

While Honkai: Star Rail shares the same breathtaking visuals and polished gameplay, it sets itself apart in numerous ways. The game offers such a unique experience that players familiar with Genshin Impact might initially feel daunted by the differences. But don’t be discouraged by the challenges as Smart Communications offers essential tips for a successful start to your thrilling adventure on the Astral Express.

1. Familiarize yourself with characters and their roles. Players experience significant changes with the introduction of Paths, representing specific character roles in the team. Building a balanced team is crucial for turn-based combat success.

2. Master the battle mechanics early on. Each character has unique techniques that can buff, damage, or apply status effects. Players share a skill point pool for activating these skills, requiring efficient management.

3. Don’t be afraid to level up your relics. Don’t hesitate to level up early-game relics for added stats and smoother story progression. Later, you can use old relics to enhance new ones.

4. Always complete your daily quests. Completing daily quests is crucial for EXP and premium currency (Stellar Jade). Luckily, Honkai: Star Rail’s daily quests take just 10 minutes, ideal for busy weekdays.

5. Regularly challenge Simulated Universe and Forgotten Hall. In the game, there are two special modes: Simulated Universe and Forgotten Hall. Regularly challenging them is essential as they provide free Stellar Jade and measure your account progress. Despite being end-game content and challenging, attempting these modes is worthwhile.

6. Save your Stellar Jade for characters you like. Save up Stellar Jade for future 5-star characters in the gacha system. The game is free-to-play friendly, with free characters capable of clearing difficult content. A guaranteed 5-star summon at the start helps in saving for upcoming character banners.

7. Play with stable internet or data connection. Smart Bro Wi-Fi is fast and reliable so you can play confidently without worrying about unexpected drops or losing your near-completed runs.

THE NEW BOSS

To increase your EXP and premium currency, it is essential to complete your daily missions

INFLUENCER QUESTIONS INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM FOR FAVORING NUDITY

BRAZILIAN model and social media personality Wanessa Moura recently expressed her frustration with Instagram policies, claiming that they are making life difficult for those working in the social network space.

Moura noticed a significant difference in engagement on her posts, attributing it to the clothes she wears in the images. Wanessa stated that Instagram seems to favor nudity, as the algorithm predominantly delivers her bikini photos.

As a model, Moura frequently shares fashion editorials featuring swimwear and lingerie. She observed a clear discrepancy in the number of likes and comments on these posts compared to others. According to her, this content absorption is not driven by the interest of her 1.5 million followers but rather by the platform’s reach favoring certain types of content. She revealed that some of her audience members have reached out, stating that her posts do not appear on their feeds.

Research has investigated this issue and revealed that images of women in underwear or bathing suits are displayed 1.6 times more than images of them dressed, with a similar trend for men at approximately 1.3 times. Moura strongly questions the underlying sexism and misogyny in an algorithm that functions with such biases.

“I’m not in favor of women’s nudity on the internet, it doesn’t value us. But a photo of lingerie for a catalog, or a fashion editorial is no problem at all. What cannot happen is that these images stand out absurdly more than the others,” she said.

Wanessa clarified that while she does not condone nudity on social networks as she believes it devalues women, she sees no issue with sharing lingerie photos for catalogs or fashion editorials. Her concern lies in the disproportionate visibility and attention these images receive compared to others. She firmly advocates for a fairer algorithm that values diverse content and treats all users equally.

Having

ITALIAN tennis player and Boss brand ambassador Matteo Berrettini is the latest major name to be showcased in the brand’s “Performance” campaign, launched this month.

The look and feel of the social-first campaign incorporates a minimalistic and future-facing laboratory setting with an elevated, grey-toned palette, and a set that features floating ceiling lights to add to the overall mystique of the campaign’s mood.

Portrayed in a series of sleek short films, the individual vignettes showcase the unique designs of the dynamic Performance range, which offers state-ofthe-art pieces that adapt to the wearer’s everyday lifestyle.

The first vignette showcases Tech Travel pieces: lightweight, easy to pack, and versatile with a four-way stretch fabric. The short film spotlights Matteo’s tennis skills, presenting a modern, engaging narrative.

The second film highlights the Dressletic selection: elegant, fuss-free tailoring in a highly flexible, four-way stretch fabric. These premium pieces offer a polished

look and dynamic comfort for life on the go.

Lastly, the third clip explores the futuristic Advance Active as sortment: quick-drying, stretchy, and reflective sporty styles. Made with technical laminated fabric and seam taping, these lightweight, workout-ready pieces provide protec tion from the elements and efficient moisture management for top-notch athletic performance and comfort.

The overarching theme highlights the cutting-edge qualities of the entire Boss Performance collection while making the best possible use of Matteo Berrettini’s charisma, charm, and athletic ability.

In the Philippines, Boss is ex clusively distributed by Stores Specialists, Inc., and is located at Greenbelt 5, Newport Mall, Rustan’s Makati, Rustan’s Shangri-La, Shangri-La Pla za East Wing, and online at Trunc.ph, Rustans.com , and Zalora.

Wanessa notices a significant difference in engagement on her posts, attributing it to the clothes she wears in the images

Brazilian model and social media influencer Wanessa Moura

AC BONIFACIO ILLUMINATES NY TIMES SQUARE BILLBOARD

ROCK CHICKS P-POP’S NEW

By Nickie Wang

BLVCK Flowers, the latest P-pop sensation introduced by Blvck Entertainment, owned by the business couple Engr. Louie and Grace Cristobal, has made a stunning entry into the music world with its empowering debut album.

Comprising four talented members - Yara, Shanis, Pola, and Candace - the group recently showcased their extraordinary vocal abilities and captivating dance moves during their much-awaited press launch.

During the Q&A portion, Blvck Flowers confirmed that their group’s name is a combination of “blvck” (from their talent management) and “flower,” symbolizing women empowerment. They expressed that “Black and flower mean power and beauty, these two words sum up the core goal of our group which is to see, use, and enhance beauty as a positive force through music, artistic performance, and influence.”

Speaking to Manila Standard Entertainment, the members emphasized their desire to be recognized as a versatile girl band, while also aiming to leave a lasting impression as the rock chicks of P-Ppop.

“P-pop’s rock chicks? That sounds great. That’s what we are, we are a girl group pero may angas,” the group said.

Yara is the lead vocalist and lead rapper, known for her appearances

on shows like Happy Together and as a print ad model and brand ambassador. Shanis shines as the main rapper and lead dancer, while Pola impresses as the main vocalist, with credits in TV shows and films like Centerstage and 3pol Trobol:

Huli Ka Balbon. Candace, the group’s visual and main dancer, began her journey as a commercial model and competed in It’s Showtime

Their musical influences include names like Sarah Geronimo, Yeng Constantino, and Belle Mariano and they hope to collaborate with the all-girl group G22, managed by Cornerstone Entertainment.

Blvck Flowers’ self-titled digital album, featuring the carrier single “PPop Star,” is out now, presenting an unconventional, edgy, and radical P-pop sound. The music video for “PPop Star,” which cost P3 million to produce, is directed by Titus Cee in collaboration with Jon Gutierrez

(a.k.a. King Badger). Other tracks on the album, like “Blvck Flowers,” showcase the group’s unique collaboration with Engr. Louie and talented composers Romel Afable, Eyy, and Sindikato

ADIE GETS TOO PERSONAL WITH ‘KURSUNADA’

AHEAD of his forthcoming debut album, Adie releases a new single titled “Kursunada,” which he describes as “kinda personal” for him as he finished writing it in one sitting.

The 22-year-old OPM singer-songwriter’s new track brings a chill, lovely and groovy mood as he combines his R&B/hiphop, folk, and pop influences.

“Kursunada” – basically a Tagalog term for “type” or “like” towards someone – is inspired by Adie’s personal experience talking to a girl online and just by her social media appearance, he could already say that she is his ideal girl that he wants to be with even though he has never seen her yet in person and does not know much of her identity.

“I think the song is kinda personal for me because I wrote the whole stuff in one sitting,” shares Adie.

“Maybe I was very inspired and dedicated during the time I’m creating the song because my emotions were very raw,” he says.

Produced by Adie himself, along with Franz Sacro, “Kursunada” – released under O/C Records – marks his second single this 2023 following “G.K.Y.A.M.”

Also this year, Adie has been given three platinum record awards for his singles “Paraluman,” “Mahika” – his collaboration with Janine Berdin, and “Tahanan” as they reach the 100-million-stream mark on Spotify. “Kursunada” is now available on all digital music streaming platforms.

ACTRESS and dancer

AC Bonifacio achieves a remarkable milestone as her Spotify Equal Philippines cover graces the digital billboard in the iconic Times Square of New York City. Ecstatic about this accomplishment, AC exclaims, “My face is on Times Square? This is insane and definitely a dream come true! Thank you to everyone who’s been here with me on my journey.”

The music streaming campaign aims to promote women’s representation in the global music scene, and AC is proud to be part of such an empowering initiative.

To add to her recent success, AC also premiered the music video for her latest single, “4 Myself,” featuring Kapamilya actor Jameson Blake as her leading man. The video showcases AC’s undeniable charisma and confidence as she dazzles with her electrifying dance moves while weaving a captivating narrative that keeps viewers enthralled.

Prior to this release, AC has delighted fans with an array of confidence-boosting anthems like “Sumayaw, Sumaya” and “Fool No Mo.” Notably, “4 Myself” secured the top spot on Spotify Equal Philippines and a spot in the top 10 of Spotify Equal Global charts.

P-pop girl group Blvck Flowers members Yara, Pola, Candace, and Shanis

Blvck Flowers’ latest music video, ‘PPop Star’, showcases the girls’ talents both in singing and dancing

‘PPop Star’ is directed by Titus Cee in collaboration with Jon Gutierrez

Young actress and singer AC Bonifacio shows her undeniable charisma and confidence in ‘4 Myself’ music video

AC on Spotify billboard on Times Square

EAST MEETS WEST IN UNDER 30 SECONDS

By Joyce Babe Pañares

IN THIS quiet spot in Katipunan Ave., you can find yourself transported from Quezon City to a Japanese omakase house or to a US steak room in under 30 seconds.

Fukui Omakase and William Watson Steak Room stand side-by-side each other, allowing clients to cross order and enjoy the best of both delectable worlds.

More importantly, both restaurants offer "affordable luxury" to residents of Quezon City, says owner Anthony Ng.

"Quezon City has a different vibe. Here, people are more conscious of value for money," Ng said in an interview.

"Fukui and William Watson offer a convenient alterative for affordable luxury instead of leaving QC for say, BGC or Makati. Here you can move from East to West in just 30 seconds," he added.

William Watson, which pays homage to two famous Angus beef cattle breeders Hugh Watson and William McCombe, offers a hefty slab of Tomahawk steak (1.3 to 1.5 kgs) at P8,800 -- pricey still, but almost 50 percent less than what one would fork out in the more upscale business districts in the metropolis.

Here you can also order table-side Caesar salad made from scratch right in front of you, or seafood bisque that comes with a large crab claw.

There's a burrata salad and grilled salmon with wasabi mashed potatoes too, as well as Cheese Steak Pizza with slow-roasted Angus beef, mozzarella, and Emmental cheese.

At Fukui, you can enjoy a sushi boat with certain fish (hamachi and ottoro, among others) flown in every week from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market and ebi tempura with the lightest of batter to showcase the plump, juicy prawns inside.

Its Flaming Maki is a sensory experience in

itself -- flambéed cheese sauce blanketing a salmon-kani with cucumber roll, while its Red Miso ice cream is an explosion of flavor with chopped walnuts providing texture.

Ng said opening his own restaurants was a natural progression for him from being a meat supplier to SM supermarkets.

"I've been dealing with raw meat for the longest time. Our meat retail shop was my college thesis over two decades ago, while as a young boy I grew up with a big piggery owned by mom in Iloilo," he said.

"As fot my cooking, it is really for survival -- nothing that I can be proud of. But I think my taste buds are generally pleasing to the public," he said.

And as a self-confessed "maarte" foodie, he wants his dishes delicious, affordable, but elevated.

His favorite dishes in his two restaurants are reflective of his philosophy -- tenderloin rossini with foie gras on a brioche bun and roasted US Angus bone marrow with crostini from William Watson, and the teishoku set at Fukui that is truly affordable luxury (all sets at under P1,000).

"Opening a business is always a gamble. But I think there is a market for what we have to offer," he said.

"You don't need an occasion to eat here. Our two restaurants are where you can have fun with your family or friends without breaking the bank," Ng added.

DECADENT PRALINES THAT SPARK JOY

FOR one year now, Pâtisserie Le Choux-Colat has been serving decadent desserts that showcase the flavors of local cacao beans and the world-class techniques employed by Chef Ely Salar.

Salar, whose core memory as a fiveyear-old boy from Palo, Leyte was of him sneaking bread from his aunt's bakery, is now an accomplished chocolatier.

“What we did was try to marry European techniques with flavors familiar to the Filipino palate, and I think we’ve been successful in doing that,” Salar said in an earlier interview.

He opened Pâtisserie Le ChouxColat in July last year at the Podium in Ortigas, armed with his experience as a pastry chef in Canada where he won several awards, including the Best

Dessert Category in the 2018 Pastry

Chef Showcase Competition.

His Praline Chocolate Collection consists of 16 premium handmade chocolate pieces -- two each of eight delightful flavors -- encased in an elegant signature Spruce box.

Chocolate Rocher

A heavenly smooth indulgence of milk chocolate paired with exciting textures of hazelnut and cocoa powder in every bite.

Coffee Ganache

That perfect blend of rich artisanal chocolate and bold premium coffee in one soft luscious bite.

Cashew Praline

Where sweet caramelized nuts meet

soft fudgy dark chocolate.

Sea Salt Caramel Ganache

A luscious combination of the piquant flavour of sea salt and the delightful taste of creamy caramel encased rich dark chocolate.

Almond Dark Chocolate

Your favorite flavors combined with artisanal touch -- perfect for any occasion.

Triple Chocolate Praline

That sweet embrace of chocolate heaven… again and again.

Honey Nougat Dark Chocolate

The complementing tastes of bold premium dark chocolate, natural

sweetness honey and nutty crunch of roasted Almonds. Bittersweet perfection in every way.

Tablea Dark Chocolate

For the lovers of rich and bold sweet flavors.

[William Watson Steak Room and Fukui Omakase are located at JSO Building in Katipunan, Quezon City.]

Grilled salmon with wasabi mashed potatoes

Seafood bisque with lobster claw

Burrata salad

Red miso ice cream and chocolate mousse

Pâtisserie Le Choux-Colat's Praline Chocolate Collection

William Watson's rib-eye steak paired with mashed sweet potato, steak rice, steamed vegetables, Madeira truffle sauce and Maldon salt

Fukui

Hamachi, ottoro and salmon sashimi topped with ikura

Beef carpaccio

Chef Ely Salar

THE CATNIP CRAZINESS

ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR YOUR NEW CAT

By Niko Gabriel Salgado

CATS are fascinating, captivating, and somewhat peculiar beings. If you are fortunate to have their affection, it becomes your duty to provide them with a comfortable and enjoyable home. They require proper attention and care, and it is essential to have indispensable items accessible at all times.

Dr. Paige Garnett, in “Must Have Supplies and Essentials for Your Cat” in the Cat Friendly Homes site, provides a list of basic supplies your feline friend will need:

Food Pick a food designated for your cat’s life stage. For instance, a kitten requires distinct nutrients compared to an adult cat.

Ask your veterinarian which food is best for your cat or buy a small amount of what your cat is currently eating and then consult with your veterinarian, says Garnett.

Once you find a good quality cat food, suitable for the age of your cat, stock up and offer it daily, Garnett adds.

By Mariana Burgos

EVERYONE knows that catnip makes cats go berserk. Some of you may even have catnip items for your kitties at home. In fact, experts have observed that wild, large cats exhibit this behavior as well. So, what is the key to catnip's power over our four-legged friends? We thought it would be a good idea to provide you a bit more information on what catnip is and how it affects cats.

What is catnip?

According to the article “Catnip, Nepeta cataria” of the Wisconsin Horticulture website, catnip is a hardy, herbaceous perennial native to Eurasia in the mint family (Lamiaceae) that grows aggressive and weedy. Nepeta cataria is one of numerous species known as catmints and is widely naturalized in temperate parts of the world.

Wisconsin Horticulture says that catnip has rangy leaves with green to gray-green foliage on upright, branching stalks. It features the typical square stems of mint plants and opposing leaves with 1-inch petioles, as do other members of the mint family. Fine hairs cover the stems and petioles of this light green plant. The leaves are triangular to oval, up to 3 inches long, with coarse teeth along the edges (crenate margins) and cordate at the base. Fine hairs cover the upper and bottom surfaces, and a reticulated network of veins is apparent on the upper side. Catnip plants may reach a height of two to three feet. It can produce blue, white, pink, or purple blooms at the terminals of the stalks.

How does it work on cats?

Joe Dunne,veterinarian, in his article "Why Do Cats Like Catnip?,” says that the plant generates an organic substance called nepetalactone, which enters a cat's system through the nasal passages. Nepetalactone is located in minute bulbs in the catnip plant's leaves, stem, and pods, and the substance is released when the plant is crushed or bitten. A cat stroking against fresh or dry plant parts might also emit nepetalactone.

When your cat inhales nepetalactone, the molecules bond to olfactory cells in her nose, sending a signal to her brain and causing her to go crazy.

How exactly do cats react to catnip?

When many owners give their cat catnip, they observe that cats begin performing in ways that assist release of nepetalactone. You may see your cat rolling in a patch of catnip or attempting to consume it in order to get more into her system.

Your cat may get hyperactive when the catnip enters her system, rushing around the room and leaping on furniture or a favorite cat tree. While rolling around on the floor, some cats begin stretching and drooling. Other cats react more sedately, becoming quiet and comfortable after smelling catnip's powerful fragrance. Essentially, the effects differ for each cat, so you won't know how your cat will react unless you give her a chance to try it.

Most cats resume normal behavior within a half hour, and many only feel the effects for 5 to 10 minutes. After calming down, cats become temporarily immune to the effects, thus giving your cat more does not result in the same unusual cat behavior.

Dunne says there is no danger of a cat having an overdose on catnip, and cats do not grow addicted to it. They may become accustomed to it, and the reaction may diminish if administered too regularly.

Can catnip affect humans?

Humans do not react to catnip in the same manner as cats do, although the plant is frequently used as an alternative treatment for headaches, sleeplessness, and arthritis. Catnip may also be used as a natural insect repellent, albeit it isn't as long-lasting or efficient as standard mosquito repellents.

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.

Provide toys for your cat for mental stimulation and (physical) exercise. In the photo is Belen, a rescued cat of the SEC-registered animal welfare group Save ALL. (Photo from the file photos of Save Animals of Love and Light - Save ALL.)

Litter boxes

They will require a designated spot to attend to their bathroom needs. Make sure to provide them with a litter box.

Garnett says that a large litter box is ideal for urination and defecation. The litter box should be one-and-a-half-times the size of your cat. This gives them enough room to enter, turn around, scratch and eliminate.

Food and water bowls

Upon your cat's arrival, it is important to have food and water bowls ready. Ensuring the bowls are clean and appealing is essential. In the case of adopting a kitten, opt for smaller and shallower bowls. Remember to clean the bowls daily and place them away from the litter box. Cats prefer separate areas for eating and relieving themselves.

Cat trees, scratch post, toys

Scratching is a natural behavior for cats, it’s important to include an acceptable place for scratching in your home, Garnett says. Scratching posts, cat trees, and cardboard boxes are ideal options. Find out which your cat prefers texture-wise, Garnett adds. When it comes to toys, offer your cat a variety of choices like strings, fish poles, or feather wands. According to Garnett, toys encourage physical and mental stimulation and allow your cat to use its natural hunting and stalking behaviors.

Cat beds

While cats are known to sleep wherever they desire, providing them with a designated, special space serves as a pleasant hideaway that aligns with their natural instinct for a cozy den.

Collars

Collars are essential when beginning your journey with a cat. All cats should have a collar and identification tag, even if your cat stays indoor. It helps identify your cat when they escape, says Garnett.

Cat carrier

If you are introducing a new cat to your home, visiting the veterinarian, or embarking on a car trip, a cat crate offers a reassuring layer of protection, providing a sense of security throughout the journey.

About the Author: Niko Gabriel Salgado is a graduate of Consular and Diplomatic Affairs and worked at the House of Representatives. He is an entrepreneur and a volunteer of Save Animals of Love and Light- Save ALL.

CAN DOGS EAT PECHAY? WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Last of two parts

Vitamin K is essential for absorbing calcium, which promotes healthy bones, she added.

6. Supports a healthy heart:

Nutrients like folate and vitamin B6 in pechay help strengthen and maintain proper heart function in dogs.

Guideline on feeding your dog pechay

When it comes to leafy greens like pechay, you have the option to feed them to your dog either cooked or raw. Alternatively, you can even consider pureeing the pechay to make it easier for your dog to consume.

If you choose to cook the pechay for your dog, boiling or blanching are suitable methods. Ensure that the cooked pechay is oil-free and unseasoned, as these can upset their stomach. Keeping it plain is the best approach.

Here are the suggested steps on feeding your dog pechay:

1. Clean and wash vegetables: Before feeding pechay or any other vegetable or fruit to your dog, make sure they are thoroughly washed to remove dirt and chemicals.

If you can, purchase organic fruits and vegetables. These contain even lesser chemicals, pesticides, or any other bacteria, Oraby said.

2. Cut into small pieces: Cut the green leaves into very small pieces that your dog can swallow without chewing. Dogs typically lack the teeth necessary to tear leaves, and feeding them uncut leaves could pose a choking hazard. Unless your dog enjoys crunching, you can opt not to give the white stem as it has minimal nutritional benefits.

3. Test with a small amount: There’s always a risk that your dog might not react properly to a new food. Which is why you must first test to be sure, Oraby noted. When introducing a new food to your

dog's diet, start with a small quantity as a precautionary measure and observe for any adverse reactions such as diarrhea or runny stools. If any unusual symptoms occur, discontinue feeding pechay immediately. Puppies may require an even smaller amount due to their lower ability to digest high-fiber foods.

4. Practice moderation: “Pechay is nutrient-dense, it can pack a lot of vitamins which can fulfill the daily requirements of a grown adult,” Oraby stressed. It's important to feed it to your dog in moderation to prevent overdose or any other potential issues. It is crucial to carefully control the amount of pechay you feed your dog.

5. Opt for greener leaves: As with all vegetables, choose pechay with vibrant green leaves as they contain the highest nutritional value. Following these steps will help when introducing pechay into your dog’s diet.

Conclusion

“To summarize, pechay is quite safe for dogs, and there’s nothing to worry about if your dog secretly ingests one,” Oraby said. However, if you choose to include pechay in your dog's diet, it is important to take necessary precautions and follow the recommended guidelines. Remember to be mindful of other vegetables and fruits that can be harmful to dogs, keeping them out of your pet's reach to ensure their safety. As always, it's also important to consider your dog's individual dietary requirements and any potential health conditions before introducing new foods. Consulting with your veterinarian is the best way to ensure that your dog's diet is safe and appropriate for their overall well-being.

About the Author: Niko Gabriel Salgado is a graduate of Consular and Diplomatic Affairs and worked at the House of Representatives. He is an entrepreneur and a volunteer for Save Animals of Love and Light - Save ALL.

A catnip plant. (Photo from Dreamstine royalty-free images.)

pechay into small pieces to avoid choking.

This cat goes crazy with catnip. (Photo from Dreamstine royalty-free images.)

A cat rubs itself on the catnip plant. (Photo from Dreamstine royalty-free images.)

Diwata, a rescued cat of Save ALL, enjoys a soft bed. Cats do like beds. If you can provide one, it will make them more comfortable. (Photo from the file photos of Save Animals of Love and Light - Save ALL.)