Manila Standard - 2023 July 31 - Monday

WATER WORLD. Commuters wade through ankle-deep flood waters at the corner of United Nations and Taft Avenue in Manila on July 30, 2023. Typhoon ‘Egay’ has left the Philippine Area of Responsibility last week but continues to enhance the southwest monsoon or ‘habagat’ while tropical storm Falcon moves over the Philippine Sea. Norman Cruz

By Rio N. Araja, Vince Lopez and Alena Mae Flores

PARTS of Luzon, already pummeled by Typhoon “Egay” last week may suffer more of the same as tropical storm “Falcon” is threatening to intensify into a typhoon between Sunday night and Monday morning and to reach peak intensity on Tuesday. The state weather bureau said Falcon

SPEAKER, TINGOG SEND P287M AID TO TYPHOON ‘EGAY’ VICTIMS

intensified while accelerating northward over the Philippine Sea, affecting land areas.

The southwest monsoon, enhanced by Falcon, will bring rains over the western portions of Luzon and the Visayas over the next three days, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said.

The center of the eye was estimated

Take a bow, Team Filipinas!

For ending World Cup debut with gallant stand in 0-6 loss to Norway

By Peter Atencio

THE Philippines encountered a Norwegian side at its absolute best, dropping a one-sided 0-6 setback on Sunday as it bid goodbye its goal of advancing in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup at the Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand.

The loss meant the Filipinas won’t be advancing after picking up their second loss in three matches in Group A. But for Filipinos across the globe –from

Senators to probe if negligence, corruption led to capsized boat

By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Rio N. Araja

SENATORS are demanding accountability for the July 27 Laguna Lake capsizing in which 27 people died, with Senator Grace Poe saying the committee on public services which she chairs, is ready to conduct a probe to check if there was negligence or corruption involved.

She said the Senate investigation must

shed light on crucial questions, such as why the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) allowed the motorboat to sail despite the strong winds and heavy rains.

She said the boat's owner and the PCG should also explain why there were more passengers on the vessel than its allowed capacity. She said there were also reports that the passengers had no life vests.

At the same time, she asked the authorities to pursue a thorough and airtight

1m pilgrims to join World Youth Day

VATICAN CITY—World Youth Day, which takes place this week in Lisbon in the presence of Pope Francis and an expected one million pilgrims, is the largest Catholic event in the world.

Initiated in 1986 by Pope John Paul II, the global gathering is normally held every two or three years, although the calendar was disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic and the most recent World Youth Day was in Panama

City in 2019.

The 16th international edition this year runs from August 1 to August 6, presided over by 86-year-old Pope Francis, making his first trip abroad since undergoing hernia surgery in June.

The week revolves around a series of cultural, spiritual and festive events, from concerts to debates and prayer sessions.

those hooked to their screens in watch parties in the Philippines and those who trooped to Eden Park –the Filipinas remain a winner after their historic performance in the

World Cup.

“The World Cup campaign of our national team may have ended, but Filipinos have shown our love for our Filipinas in the past three match days. This is not the end because the sun will shine again [for our Filipinas],” the Philippine Football Federation said in a Facebook post.

“Thank you, Filipinas for the great effort on your first World

By Erel Cabatbat

NORWAY played its best game so far in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 in New Zealand and Australia. Its attacking ability is on full display, while maintaining discipline and teamwork all game long. It was too bad the Philippines was at the receiving end of such a display of class and firepower as the Filipinas lost to the Greeshoppene, 6-0 at Eden Park in Auckland in a crucial fixture in Group A.

Senate resolution to list WPS row options

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATE President Juan Miguel Zubiri said he will file a draft resolution condemning China’s incursion into Philippine territory and its harassment of Philippine Coast Guard personnel and Filipino fishermen.

The document will no longer limit the call only to asking the government to bring its case to the UN General Assembly (UNGA).

The original resolution proposed by Senator Risa Hontiveros had called on the Department of Foreign Affairs to bring the issue to the UNGA for a vote,

but some senators had questioned the wisdom of this move, saying it could weaken the Philippine position if the vote goes the wrong way.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., reacting to the Hontiveros resolution, also said that it is the executive branch, not the legislature, that sets foreign policy.

A loss for now but victory will eventually come

Speaker, Tingog send P287m aid to typhoon ‘Egay’ victims

By Rio N. Araja

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and Tingog party-list group have helped more residents of Northern Luzon and even Central Luzon who have been affected by typhoon “Egay.”

As of noon Sunday, a total of P287 million in cash assistance, relief goods, generators and financial aid from the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development under Secretary Rex Gatchalian. The Speaker and Tingog solons Yedda Marie Romualdez and Jude Acidre

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Cup season! The passion and resilience you displayed on the field is truly inspiring,” the Facebook page NordicPinoy wrote.

The FIFA Women’s World Cup also praised the Filipinas for their gritand determination: “Take a bow for a sensational debut #FIFAWWC campaign.”

Unable to score in their first two games, the world no. 12 Norwegians finally lived up to their lofty ranking to maul the hapless Filipinas into submission and eventually secure a seat in the Last 16 knockout phase for the third straight time.

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With their backs literally against the wall, Norway showed why it is a former World Cup, Olympic and European champion with a fluid offense and all-around game to completely dominate the Filipinas in every aspect of the match. More importantly, the team reminded everyone that they are still one of the teams to beat despite a slow start in the tournament.

“We were definitely outclassed tonight, they are such an amazing team.

They moved the ball a lot faster,” Olivia McDaniel, the Filipinas’ goalkeeper said after the game.

Sophie Roman Haug scored a hat trick as she single handedly led Norway in giving the Philippines a harsh reality check.

Haug netted a brace,in the 6th and and

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From A1 at 1,170 km east of extreme Northern Luzon, and the storm was moving northward at 20km/h, packing maximum sustained winds of 110 km/h near the center and gustiness of up to 135 km/h.

The rains from typhoon Egay and the enhanced southwest monsoon, meanwhile, have caused the water level at the La Mesa Dam to rise, PAGASA said.

"Excess flood water in La Mesa Dam will overflow in the event that the dam elevation reaches 80.15m,” it added.

Residents living in low lying areas in Quezon City, Valenzuela City and Malabon City are advised to stay alert due to the rising water level at the La Mesa Dam.

The dam’s excess water is expected to affect low-lying areas along the Tullahan River in Quezon City (Fairview, Forest Hills Subdivision, Quirino Highway, Sta. Quiteria, and San Bartolome), Valenzuela (Brgy. Ligon, North Expressway, La Huerta Subdivision) and Malabon.

Egay, which exited the Philippine area of responsibility last week, caused about P5.9 billion in damage, disaster officials said.

Damage to infrastructure was pegged at P4.4 billion, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said in its latest report, with agricultural damage estimated at P1.5 billion.

The death toll from the combined effects of Egay and the southwest monsoon (habagat) climbed to 16, with 52 hurt and

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Events are targeted at Catholics between the age of 16 and 35, although organizers insist that everyone is welcome to attend, with no registration necessary.

More than 700 bishops and 20 cardinals will attend, alongside 20,000

facilitated the release of the AICS funds, while the cash assistance and relief goods came from the Speaker’s personal funds.

“We hope the relief and financial aid we sent to our kababayan in the typhoon-stricken areas will help them recover from the calamity. It represents our commitment to assist our people in

"They got some very good players. This is a classy team. They are the favorites to win the group. They showed some of their class today with their individual skills. They picked us apart in a couple of battles in the box," said Philippine team coach Alen Stajcic. The Philippines’ woes started when Sofia Roman Haug knocked in a hattrick to lead the Norwegian cause in the sixth and 17th minutes. The 24-year-old Haug sent in the first one from a long volley from a tight angle, after receiving a deep cross from Thea Bjelde. Haug, a forward playing for Italian Serie A club A.S. Roma, then found the net 11 minutes later with a high-angled

17th minutes, before a Caroline Graham Hansen screamer at the 31st minute made it 3-0 with plenty to spare before the halftime whistle. It was also at that point that the Filipinas’ grasp of an extended stay in the second half of the tournament began to loosen.

Three minutes in the final half confirmed the obvious; an own goal by Alicia Barker made it 4-0 for Norway. Four minutes later, it was 5-0 as Guro Reiten joined the scoring fray with a strike from the spot.

Roman Haug scored her third goal of the game in stoppage time for the final score and completed Norway’s massacre of the Filipinas.

The Greeshoppene’s attacking ability was in full show against the Philippines, which was hoping to repeat its shocking win against New Zealand. Instead, the Filipinas ran into a brick wall, literally

20 missing.

The typhoon also left more than 1 million residents affected, equivalent to some 291,262 families, across 13 regions in the country.

More than 30,000 residents fled their homes, with half of them seeking refuge in 330 evacuation centers nationwide.

A total of 17,334 people were also evacuated in the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, and Western Visayas, the NDRRMC said.

The council reported close to 22,000 houses damaged, with total damage pegged at P344,000.

The government is now conducting an inventory to determine the number of public schools in Northern Luzon that were affected by typhoon Egay, ahead of the opening of classes next month.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said his sister, Senator ImeeMarcos, had suggested the inventory be conducted when she accompanied him to visit typhoon-hit areas in Northern Luzon.

The chief executive presided over on Saturday a series of briefings inBangued, Abra; Laoag City in Ilocos Norte; and Tuguegarao City, Cagayan. The President also conducted aerial inspections of the affected areas in Abra and Ilocos Norte.

Some 40 areas declared a state of calamity due to the devastating effects of Egay and the southwest monsoon, including the town of Sanchez Mira in Cagayan as well as the entire Abra and MountainProvince.

Some local government units (LGUs) in Central Luzon are under a state of calamity due to the massive floods caused

volunteers and pilgrims from more than 200 countries, according to the Vatican.

The young people will initially spend time in different dioceses across Portugal, before gathering in the capital, which is preparing with about 16,000 members of law enforcement and emergency services to be deployed.

World Youth Day is spread across several venues in Lisbon, a city of 550,000 inhabitants already busy with

distress to the best extent we can,” the Speaker said. In an interview with dzRH, Deputy Secretary General Sofonias Gabonada Jr. of the Office of Speaker said Romualdez and the Tingog party-list will always be partners of the Marcos administration in providing immediate assistance during calamities.

“We have provided help in typhoondevastated provinces, such as Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Cagayan Valley, Benguet, Baguio City, Abra, Apayao, and Malolos City, Bulacan. We are glad to announce the offices of the Speaker and Tingog have partnered with the private sector where we could buy goods,” he said.

"He instructed us to repack immedi-

header to the left of PH goalie Olivia McDaniel.

Caroline Hansen, who came in for injured star Ada Hederberg, was the next to provide Norway a third goal -- a 25-meter volley sailing past McDaniel’s right, handing the Norwegians a 3-0 edge in the 31st minute.

Hansen’s goal silenced a big Filipino crowd that came to watch the Philippines in its historic match at the world stage.

The Filipinas’ anguish did not end there, as Fil-American Alicia Barker scored an own goal in the 48th minute.

Barker was making an interception play on Guro Reiten at the side of the goal mouth when she accidentally flicked

and figuratively.

Despite the huge defeat, the Filipinas still deserve the love and support of the country and Filipinos all over the world.

It was through their grit, determination and faith that they brought so much joy and pride in a tournament that favors those, who rise to the occasion, buoyed by experience and who can exploit every advantage whether in height, speed and class.

“We learned plenty good from the titans of the sport and you know how powerful they are. All we can do is learn from it, grow and keep moving forward,” McDaniel said.

The Filipinas will exit early in the tournament. But not after capturing the hearts and respect of many, not after putting the Philippines in the football map long dominated by almost everyone else but not them. They were a joy to watch, always the underdog, but never letting go of that dream and aspiration of their kababayans

by the southwest monsoon and typhoon Egay.

Sto. Tomas is the latest LGU in this province to be placed under such a state following a special session of the municipal board on Sunday morning.

On Saturday, the LGUs of Macabebe, San Simon and Masantol were alsoplaced under a state of calamity, citing the severe flooding in the communities that displaced some residents and the damage to agriculture and fisheries.

Bataan Gov. Jose Enrique Garcia announced Saturday night that the entire province is under a state of calamity due to floods in low-lying areas and the considerable volume of agricultural crops destroyed.

“The continuous rains in the past days caused flooding and damage to properties, houses and livelihood of our residents from the towns of Dinalupihan, Morong, Bagac, Samal and Limay,” Garcia said in Filipino. The Bataan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) said damage to agriculture such as palay, corn and high-value crops, as well as fisheries, was initially estimated at P22.38 million.

The Bataan PDRRMO reported that 639 families or 2,357 individuals are temporarily staying in evacuation centers.

In Bulacan province, Pulilan, Paombong, Calumpit towns are also under a state of calamity due to massive destruction to agriculture brought on by continuous moderate to heavy rains the past days.

Gov. Daniel Fernando said a provincewide state of calamity will be declared on Monday as per the recommendation of the

summer tourists.

Key moments with the pope include Thursday's welcome ceremony, the Stations of the Cross on Friday, a vigil on Saturday night and large mass on Sunday morning.

The Argentine pontiff is expected to address themes such as climate change, social media and the scandal of clerical sex abuse of children that has caused enormous damage to the reputation of

ately and deliver at once the goods,” he added.

On Friday, the Speaker travelled to Baguio City to join officials in distributing aid to residents of the city and Benguet province.

Since then, additional distressed households in Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Cagayan, Apayao, Pangasinan, Pampanga, and Malolos City in Bulacan have been helped.

The Speaker told Benguet and Baguio residents that he shared the pain and suffering they were going through because that was what he felt when super typhoon “Yolanda” caused widespread devastation and deaths in Leyte and other parts of Eastern Visayas in 2013.

in the ball towards the net, with McDaniel unable to receive the kick-in.

Reiten came back in the 53rd minute, flicking a penalty kick off Jaclyn Sawicki’s foul, giving Norway a 5-0 spread.

Also contributing to the Philippines' problems, Sofia Harrison, whocame in for Isabella Flannigan, was ejected with a red card, 10 minutes after she came in following a tackle on Thea Bjelde in the 65th minute.

Another sixth goal could have come from Reiten, but a 10-meter long shot from the left was swatted away by McDaniel in the 83rd minute.

Haug then sank her third and final goal in the fifth of the 11 minutes of added time as Norway completed its 6-point massacre.

and proving the Philippines knows how to play, compete and even win a game in the biggest soccer event of the year.

“We are definitely going to try and get back here in the next four years. This isn’t the end. We have a lot more in us and we got a lot of tournaments going on for the rest of the year. So it’s not the end so we’re excited to keep going,” McDaniel added.

The Filipinas may lack the height, the speed and experience of their opponents, but they never lacked heart and the fighting spirit. They lost, true, to a formidable opponent, but the real victory can not be measured in the stat line.

Victory may come several years later, generations even, by the next wave of Filipinas inspired by the pioneering ones that laid their hearts and soul in the pitch for three unforgettable games in New Zealand.

PDRRMO headed by Manuel Lukban.

Hundreds of Bocaue residents in Bulacan were forced to flee their homes as massive floods triggered by monsoon rains hit the town over the weekend.

At least 400 people or about 100 families sought refuge in the Bocaue Public Market, where some of them have been staying since the rains started pouring on Thursday.

The Bocaue River reached its critical level of 12.5 meters on Sunday. As of 7 a.m., the floodwaters in Barangay Igulot were reported to be chest-deep.

Several vehicles were also stranded along the MacArthur Highway as floods made the road impassable.

Parts of Luzon including Metro Manila have been experiencing continuous rains brought by the southwest monsoon (habagat) enhanced by Falcon.

According to the state weather bureau, the monsoon rains will continue to pour over Luzon and parts of Visayas in the coming days.

Damage to agriculture in Bulacan was initially placed at P12.2 million.

Some 3,727 families or 14,407 individuals were displaced and brought to various evacuation sites.

A declaration of a state of calamity would allow the use of the calamity fund to aid affected residents and would also freeze prices of basic commodities in the affected areas.

As of noon Sunday, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 3 reported that some roads are still impassable to light and heavy vehicles due to floods. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

the worldwide Catholic Church.

The first international World Youth Day was held in Rome in 1986, following two successful gatherings of young people in the Italian capital in 1984 and 1985.

Then came Buenos Aires in Argentina (1987), Santiago de Compostela in Spain (1989), Czestochowa in Poland (1991), Denver in the United States (1993) and Manila in the Philippines (1995).

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investigation on the capsizing of a boat off the waters of Binangonan, Rizal to hold those responsible accountable.

"The probe should determine liability and mete out punishment forthose to blame," Poe said.

Senator Jinggoy Estrada said those responsible for the sinking should be held accountable for their actions or inaction, which may have contributed to the tragedy.

"There must be full transparency in their conduct of a comprehensive and impartial inquiry into the incident," Estrada said.

He said the latest sea tragedy should serve as a "wake up call" for authorities to thoroughly look into the safety protocols and enforcement measures to avoid a recurrence of this incident.

"It's unacceptable that somebody has been sleeping on the job. They should be punished," he said.

The MB Aya Express, a motorized outrigger, had a maximum capacity of only 42 persons, but it was allowed to sail in bad weather with about 70 passengers on board, without enough life vests.

Senator Raffy Tulfo said the relevant government authorities, including the PCG and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), which allowed this tragedy to happen, should not get off the hook.

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III and Senator Christopher Go earlier called for those responsible for the sinking to be punished.

Quezon City Rep. Marvin Rillo on Sunday called for the compulsory donning of life jackets on all passenger motorized boats.

“Every traveler on a motorized boat should be wearing a life jacket atall times throughout the voyage as a precaution. This is a simple and practical measure that can help safeguard lives at sea, or in lakes and rivers,” he said.

“If you visit beach resorts nowadays, and you hire a motorized boat for an island-hopping tour, they will require everybody onboard to put on a life jacket for protection. The same rule should be applied to all light watercraft carrying paying passengers,” he added.

The MB Aya Express capsized in Laguna Lake on July 27, shortly after setting out from Barangay Kalinawan in Binangonan, Rizal. It was on its way to Talim Island near the center of the country’s largest lake when it was buffeted by strong waves and rolled over.

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Zubiri said the gist of the resolution is a sense of the Senate to condemn Chinese intrusion into the West Philippine Sea.

He said they will show the dates when the Chinese ships entered the country and harassed Philippine Coast Guard and Navy personnel and fishermen.

"We are urging the government to do something. They should act," Zubiri said.

"We can put in the resolution: Number 1, diplomatic protest. Although we have seen in the past that we have filed over a hundred diplomatic protests yet China disregards all these. So that's number 1 - to continue the diplomatic protests and continue bilateral discussions with China."

"Number 2, to file the appeal to the General Assembly. The executive can also act on that. That will be one of the options."

"We will condemn the incursions and give more options to the government. That is the sense of the Senate," Zubiri added.

He said taking the issue to the UNGA is still an option to emphasizethat China is not following the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, of which it is a signatory.

The resolution will also call on the national government to continue delivering modern equipment to the Navy and the Coast Guard.

Zubiri said that ultimately, it is the President who will decide on how to handle the issue.

Given the misgivings over the original draft by Hontiveros, Zubiri has been saying that the resolution can still be changed.

Last week, he said he is not sure if the original wording of theSenate Resolution 659 on UNGA authored and sponsored by Hontiveros will retain the original wording.

They were followed by Paris, France (1997); Rome again in 2000; Toronto, Canada (2002); Cologne, Germany (2005); Sydney, Australia (2008); Madrid, Spain in 2011; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 2013.

The biggest event was Manila, which drew five million pilgrims, followed by Rio de Janeiro with 3.7 million, and Krakow, Poland in 2016 with three million. AFP

ARTA nixes PPA proposal to curb port congestion

By Othel V. Campos

THE Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) thumbs down the proposed implementation of the Philippine Port Authority’s (PPA) Trusted Operator Program - Container Registry and Monitoring System (TOPS-CRMS) after a thorough reevaluation of the regulatory impact assessment of the project.

ARTA Secretary Ernesto Perez attested to the impartiality of the review which according to him was not influenced by external factors.

“Our re-evaluation was diligent, and it stands as our final recommendation, unless either party provides relevant additional documents,” Perez said.

Based in its findings, ARTA recommends that PPA explore cost-effective alternatives to address potential congestion without burdening stakeholders. However, the final decision on implementing the regulation rests with the PPA and the PPA Board.

ARTA conducted the re-assessment on request of various stakeholders to be affected by the proposed regulation.

The re-evaluation process is pursuant to ARTA’s mandate to review the proposed regulation by the PPA under Section 17 (g) of Republic Act No. 11032, or the Ease Doing Business Law.

The agency released the report to relevant agencies last July 25.

The re-evaluation process, based on several grounds, considered valuable input and data from both government agencies and private stakeholders.

A key concern for re-evaluation was the PPA’s statement during a June 2023 consultation meeting, stating that there is currently no port congestion. This contradicts the system’s intended purpose, as stated in the submitted RIS.

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) says the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) can validly secure from private companies the insurance contracts for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are hired and deployed under a government-to-government (G-to-G) arrangement,.

‘MIAA can’t tap unused terminal fees’

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) cannot use for capital expense purposes the more than P1.2 billion in unclaimed passenger service charges (PSCs) remitted by airline companies for unused tickets, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ).

In a legal opinion issued last July 25, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla explained that “the unrefunded PSCs in question are government funds, and that the MIAA was merely a custodian of the money.

The legal opinion addressed to MIAA general manager Cesar Chiong underscored that the MIAA “acts as the trustee on behalf of the passengers, and is not free to unilaterally utilize such funds.” However, Remulla clarified that the

legal opinion was issued as “information and guidance only.”

“Sound administrative practice, more than official courtesy, demands that the DBM (Department of Budget and Management) and the COA (Commission on Audit) should be accorded first opportunity to consider and resolve the issue presented,” he stressed.

The MIAA has entered into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with domestic and international airline firms for the collection of the PSCs which are terminal fees imposed by the MIAA on departing passengers and integrated in

the airline tickets at the point of sale so that travelers no longer have to line up at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to pay such fees.

But passengers who cancelled their flights can seek refund of the PSCs.

In its request for legal opinion, the MIAA informed the DOJ that “as of March 31, 2023, the total PSC on unused tickets remitted by airline carriers has reached P1.2 billion, of which only P26,000 were claimed or refunded.” It then sought the DOJ’s legal opinion, citing major equipment that “need to be replaced or refurbished.”

CARTLOAD OF DOGS. A couple pushes their cart loaded with dogs along Legarda in Sampaloc, Manila to the awe of onlookers who believe that feeding so many pets will be a big dent on the family income, particularly those who can barely make both ends meet.

“There exists no legal or constitutional constraint for the procurement of an insurance policy from private insurance providers to cover for the money claims and repatriations costs of the workers hired under a G-to-G arrangement, provided, that, the premiums for such shall be drawn against the FEFG (Foreign Employers Guarantee Fund),” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said,

BTA backs Marcos’ call for peace, unity

By Nash B. Maulana

COTABATO CITY—Members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Parliament back the President’s call on the Filipino people to embrace peace and unity among them and buckle down to work.

Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim lauded the continued commitment of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in bringing about “genuine autonomy and progress” for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Member of Parliament (MP) Michael Midtimbang urged the Bangsamoro people to support the calls of the President “to strengthen the bridge of reconciliation in peace and in unity for us to achieve total development.”

In his official statement the day after the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 17, BARMM Chief Minister Ebrahim said: “The president’s call for granting amnesty is a testament to his strong and resolute desire of finding lasting peace and justice.”

Midtimbang said the Moro people, having been through ages of armed conflict, would particularly reap from the fruits of peace which would propel the Bangsamoro Region “through genuine status of development from improved economy which translates to prosperity in livelihood amongst them.”

in a legal opinion issued last July 19.

“The benefit of procuring an insurance policy for workers hired under a G-to-G arrangement is that it would address and cover their needs such as medical benefits, repatriation costs, and money claims, among others,” Remulla added.

The DOJ opinion was addressed to Undersecretary Bernardo Olalia

LTO mulls all transactions by appointment setup

By Rio N. Araja

UPON the instruction of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista to further improve services, newly appointed Land Transportation Office (LTO) chief Vigor Mendoza II is eyeing an appointment system of all transactions in the agency.

The appointment system was seen as a big step toward digitalization of the LTO, which means that all transactions would be done online under the digitalization program of Presi-

dent Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

If this can be done in the passport transaction at the Department of Foreign Affairs, the appointment system can also be implemented for the application and renewal of drivers’ license and motor vehicles, Mendoza said.

“This is already being done at the LTO central office and we are looking into replicating this process in all our offices across the country similar to what the DFA is doing” he said.

“Our fellow countrymen can be

assured that we will be able to simplify and shorten the entire process as we pursue the immediate implementation of the appointment system,” he added. The appointment system is also envisioned as a big help in dealing with the years-long problem on the presence of fixers in the LTO offices. By pursuing the appointment system and eventually the shift to online transactions, he said fixers would be denied the opportunity to engage in their illegal activities.

of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).

“Similar to agency-hired OFWs, there is a need to ensure the protection of the interests and welfare of these Gto-G workers and their families, by way of securing an insurance contract, notwithstanding the execution of a bilateral agreement between the host and receiving States,” Remulla said.

BSP eyes 70% of Pinoys having bank account

By Julito G. Rada

BANGKO Sentral ng Pilipinas Gov.

Eli Remolona Jr. is confident that the target of having 70 percent of adult Filipinos own a bank account by the end of the year remained achievable.

In his speech during the BSP 30th anniversary reception for the Banking community Friday night, Remolona said the payment system is one of the challenges the country is facing, aside from the elevated inflation rate.

The BSP’s financial inclusion survey in 2021 showed that 56 percent of adults in the country have a bank account, a significant increase from only 23 percent in 2017.

“We’re confident we will reach our target of 70 percent by this year,” Remolona told the bankers.

“We’re not stopping here. These accounts should provide the opportunity for people to build savings buffers, invest in their future and more actively participate in the digital economy. Programs like Paleng-QR help digitalize crucial value chains of merchants and SMEs,” he said.

The BSP also aims to have half of the retail payments in the country digitalized by the end of the year.

“At last count, 42 percent of retail payments were in digital form. This is up from just one percent ten years ago. That proportion should hit our target of 50 percent this year,” he said.

He said the BSP has given licenses to 258 digital payment providers. Over time, he expects competition and network effects to result in a system where the most innovative, efficient and responsible providers truly respond to the needs of customers.

Holy Mass at Libingan marks

FVR’s first death anniversary

THE family of the late former President Fidel V. Ramos marks on Monday his first death anniversary with a 9 a.m. Holy Mass on his gravesite at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Ramos, the 12th President of the Philippines, who was popularly called by his initials FVR, died on July 31, 2022 at the age of 94.

Former First Lady Amelita “Ming” Ramos, their children, grandchildren, relatives, former cabinet members, and friends in the military and private sector will lead

the solemn observance ceremony.

As a devoted public servant and military officer and later as Chief Executive, FVR had developed three practices of leadership which he repeatedly included in his speeches.

These are “unity, solidarity and teamwork; kaya natin ito! (we can do it!), and work as you pray, and pray as you work.

While still in the active military service, Ramos was hands on to preserve the country against attacks by rebel forces.

‘OFWs hired on gov’t-to-gov’t deal can be insured with private firms’

Norman Cruz

Probe on El Niño effects sought

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian is proposing a Senate inquiry to find out measures that the government can use to mitigate the impacts of possible inflation due to the El Niño phenomenon.

Gatchalian took note of PAGASA’s warning of the consequences of El Nino on inflation particularly due to reduced food production. The state weather bureau also said electricity rates will likely surge, which in turn, can worsen poverty.

Because of this, Gatchalian filed Senate Resolution 691 which seeks

CLEANUP AFTER ‘EGAY.’

A crane is used to dredge debris in a waterway near the Bulungan Fish Market in Parañaque City. Typhoon Egay left the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) on Thursday, but rains continue due to an enhanced southwest monsoon or habagat.

Norman Cruz

Solon backs

DOE review of grid operator

By Rio N. Araja

CAMARINES Sur Rep. LRay Vil-

lafuerte has backed the Department of Energy’s (DOE) performance review of the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP), saying that once completed, it could help enlighten Congress on what actions to take to address the subpar. performance of the country’s sole power grid operator.

“Congress needs to decide soon enough on whether to alter or amend NGCP’s franchise agreement to compel it to upgrade its system and spend a sizable chunk of its earnings on interconnecting our major islands, or to revoke its franchise altogether and award it to a much better concessionaire so the government can deliver cheaper and more stable and accessible electricity to consumers — and meet President Marcos’ goal of achieving 100 percent household electrification by 2028,” he cited.

He said he is hoping that “the DOE could complete at the soonest its NGCP performance audit, which, hopefully, can help us lawmakers reach a consensus on what actions we have to take to reverse the below par performance of our lone power grid operator in terms of preventing major power disruptions, and compelling it to complete its transmission projects as scheduled and spending bigger on interconnecting our major islands.”

an inquiry into the government’s readiness to reduce the impact of the El Niño phenomenon that is expected to persist until the first quarter of next year.

Gatchalian, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means stressed there is an urgent need to assess the capability of concerned gov-

ernment agencies and determine the planned interventions to mitigate the impact of El Niño.

“The entire Philippine government should be prepared to cushion the detrimental effects of the El Niño phenomenon on the country’s food, energy, and economic security,” he emphasized.

The weather phenomenon could diminish the agriculture sector’s contribution to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).

Based on a 2019 World Bank report, recurring El Niño occurrences in the country are estimated to cause national GDP losses ranging from -0.29% to

-1.57% and agricultural GDP losses between -1.73% and -6.9%, Gatchalian said.

“Had El Niño emerged in 2022, it could have translated to estimated losses of P57.84 billion to P313.11 billion in national GDP and between P30.85 billion and P124.31 billion in the agricultural sector’s GDP, based on the country’s economic data.”

Gatchalian recalled previous El Niño occurrences brought drought nationwide and water supply shortages due to lower-than-average rainfall in the country, greatly affecting farmers who rely heavily on rainfall for their livelihood.

PBBM OKs plan on Pasig River rehab and dev’t

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has approved an inter-agency council for the Pasig River urban development plan.

Malacanang said this is part of the administration’s response to the urgent need to rehabilitate and enhance the quality of life along the banks of the river.

A four-page Executive Order (EO) No. 35, issued on July 25 and signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, stated that the inter-agency council will be responsible for facilitating and ensuring the full rehabilitation of the banks along the Pasig River water system and nearby water systems.

The inter-agency council will be chaired by the Secretary of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), vice-chaired by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman with 13 member agencies such as the DPWH, DENR, DILG, DOT, DOTr, DOF, DBM, NHCP, NCCA, PPA, PCG, LLDA and TIEZA.

Aside from facilitating and ensuring the full rehabilitation of the Pasig River, the council is also tasked to formulate a Pasig River Urban Development Plan and implement a coordinated and integrated rehabilitation of the Pasig Riverbanks system and nearby water systems.It is also tasked to ensure that easements provided under RA 386 (Civil Code of the Philippines) and other relevant laws are followed; study, prepare and implement a comprehensive shelter plan for relocation of informal settlers; and, accept grants or any assistance from local and foreign sources subject to existing laws, rules and regulations.

Tolentino seeks anti-graft inclusions in new gov’t procurement law

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Francis Tolentino wants pending anti-graft bills to be included in the proposed new procurement law being requested by Malacanang.

Tolentino said there are existing bills he filed under the 19th Congress which he wants to be part of the provisions of the proposed Government Procurement

Code requested by Malacanang to the legislature during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s second State of the Nation Address (SONA) last week.

“I have filed six bills filed on government procurement. So, this will be consolidated if there is a new version of Republic Act No. 1984—our Procurement Act,” Tolentino, in an interview on DZBB Sunday, said He said these bills will just be includ-

Lawmaker opposes granting of retirement benefits to 18 alleged ranking ‘narco’ cops

By Rio N. Araja

ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro on Sunday strongly opposed the grant of retirement benefits and pensions to the 18 high-ranking police officers who resigned amid allegations of involvement in illegal drug activities.

“If the reasons for the acceptance of their resignations are indeed strong, then these drug cops should be punished and not be coddled,” she said.

“If ordinary employees of the governments are charged, all of their benefits are being suspended,” she added. She raised concern about the fiscal crisis that

the country is facing, particularly the burden of providing large pensions to police officers and military personnel.

“What kind of justice system would remove drug cops from their posts and still give them pensions, especially when we are already grappling with a fiscal crisis caused by the hefty pensions of police and military personnel?” she asked.

Granting retirement benefits and pensions to these high-ranking drug cops, according to Castro, could send a wrong message to the public.

“If they were given their pensions, then it simply sends the wrong message, which is crime pays in the Philippines,” she noted.

ed in the new law.

Tolentino, chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, spearheaded a series of inquiries in connection with the alleged anomalous purchase by the government of outdated and overpriced laptops for public school teachers.

Following the Senate investigation, Tolentino filed Senate Bill (SB) No. 1802, which seeks to abolish the Pro -

curement Service of the Department of Budget and Management (PS-DBM), the primary government agency involved in various anomalous contracts. He also pressed to abolish PS-DBM. Under the said Senate bill, the senator also seeks the registration of all future joint ventures (JVs) that will participate in government bidding with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Bordado files bill to form Naga dev’t agency

By Rio N. Araja

CAMARINES Sur Rep. Gabriel Bordado is seeking the creation of the Metropolitan Naga Development Authority (MNDA) to promote the development of the region.

“The passage of the MNDA bill would be a momentous stride toward a brighter and more inclusive future for the constituents of Naga City and the surrounding municipalities. By institutionalizing this development authority, we aim to bring about positive change and ensure sustainable progress that benefits all,” he stressed Then Camarines Sur representative James Jacob filed the bill. Bordado, an assistant minority leader, recently filed a similar proposed measure to create MNDA, which he called a landmark bill.

The bill’s primary focus is on the city of Naga and several municipalities in Camarines Sur and Masbate.

The areas falling under the jurisdiction of the MNDA included the city of Naga and the municipalities of Bombon, Bula, Calabanga, Camaligan, Canaman, Gainza, Libmanan, Magarao, Milaor, Minalabac, Ocampo, Pamplona, Pasacao, Pili, San Fernando, and Siruma in Camarines Sur, and San Pascual in Masbate.

Go urges DBM, DOH to expedite cash allowance distribution to health workers

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go urged the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Department of Health (DOH) to ensure that the commitments made by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) are met.

He specifically stressed the need to expedite the disbursement of risk allowances to healthcare workers who have been at the forefront of the nation’s fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The backlog should be hastened which means the previous years when risk allowances should have been given to health workers,” Go said.

He added that these health workers risked their lives

and made significant sacrifices during the pandemic.

“We have not reached where we are now if not for the sacrifices and help of our medical frontliners. Let us help them. Let us give what’s due them,” he said. He also called on the said agencies to speed up their efforts, noting there was an approved allocation for this purpose in the 2023 budget, which is about P19 billion.

In his last SONA, the President committed to disbursing the allowances of health workers, as prescribed by Republic Act No. 11712.

Go is one of the authors and co-sponsors of the said act in the Senate. While the State of Public Health Emergency has been lifted, the senator emphasized the increased need to provide what is due to the healthcare workers.

ROLLING STORE. A vendor uses a wooden cart as a rolling store to display and sell various plastic products along Blumentritt, Manila. Lino Santos

Not yet time to rest

DAYS after the President’s second SONA where he pointed to inflation as the biggest headache during his first year in office, then claimed that it was tamed by government actions, the newly-appointed Bangko Sentral governor declared that “it was too soon to declare victory.”

Gov. Eli Remolona was among bankers on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the Bangko Sentral which took over the insolvent Central Bank by way of Republic Act 7653 authored principally by then Sen. Franklin Drilon and signed into law by Pres. Fidel V. Ramos on June 13, 1993.

A bit of historical trivia: Before the “bagong” BSP, we had the Central Bank of the Philippines, a creation after many years of planning dating back to the Commonwealth. Republic Act 265, or the Central Bank Act of 1948. was signed into law by then Pres. Elpidio Quirino in June of 1949, after the untimely death of Pres. Manuel A. Roxas, its first and long-time governor being Miguel Cuaderno.

That Central Bank had to be re-capitalized by the government after the financial crisis of the early 1980s highlighted by the assassination of Benigno S. Aquino Jr. which bled our monetary system into a fatal spiral of sky-high interest rates and the inability to settle our foreign debt payments during the last years of martial rule.

Legal lending was a high of 36 percent if you could get a loan, and Bobby Ongpin tried mightily to siphon off dollars to finance our imports through the “Binondo central bank.”

While so-called “headline” inflation has gone down from a high of 8.7 percent in January this year to 5.4 percent in June, “core” inflation, which excludes items that are subject to volatile movements, such as food and energy, remains quite high at 7.7 percent average for the first half of the year, as observed by Remolona.

Core inflation includes rentals, transport, clothing, and the recurring costs of doing business.

It’s not yet time to rest, the new BSP governor tells us.

True enough, bad news came in like a torrent this July, and the Chinese ghost month is still two weeks away.

Cry for the benighted land and its future, with its brains and brawns leaving the Philippines because it’s so hard to love

On the local scene, El Nino has been preceded by destructive typhoons, especially the last one, Egay, which hit Northern Luzon, one of our major food basket areas. Rice, corn and vegetable crops have been destroyed.

On the international scene, Russia is hitting Odessa and Ukrainian ports, backing out of an arrangement brokered earlier allowing grain shipments from the embattled zones to freely exit towards the rest of the world.

That will cause a wheat shortage, which will trigger upward price movements on other staple grains, rice and corn included.

India, which exports 40 percent of the world’s thin rice trade, has banned exports of long grain and broken rice, along with wheat, to ensure domestic food security.

This will cascade into other exporting countries, such as Thailand, Vietnam, the United States, Pakistan and Brazil.

Production figures in these countries are either on the decline, or stagnant.

China with its huge population is expected to bid high for Asia’s rice supply.

Then again, OPEC and Russia are continuing their production cuts which will impact on energyimporting countries like ours.

In fact, the news last Friday announced huge pump price increases effective this week.

So while core inflation remains high, the impact of oil and food will be the major worries for the Philippines, as we have entered the typhoon season in an El Nino year which will get worse in the fourth quarter of 2023 and well into next year.

Then again, while oil demand went down with the Chinese economy still in the doldrums, winter is fast approaching, when demand for oil goes up in countries north and south of the equatorial band.

So the rosy expectations the President announced before Congress are not likely to materialize, as inflation continues its deadly upswing in the coming months. And it will be felt most in the urban centers which depend on food from the agricultural regions and consume much more oil for transport and energy requirements.

EDITORIAL

PH nurses voting with their feet

The downward trend from a high of 8.7 percent in January when onions and sugar reached astronomical highs to June’s 5.4 percent was due to food imports, but these will be more costly in the coming months.

We can expect BSP to employ its usual monetary tool, which is to increase interest rates, the same instrument the US Federal Reserve intends to do.

But that will dampen business credit at a time when the economy needs to grow through investments and expansion after the effects of the threeyear toll caused by the pandemic from which the economy has yet to recover.

Moreover, the private sector, if it will resort to borrowings, will be crowded out by government borrowings, which are sovereign guaranteed. And because the same conditions are worldwide, over-all demand is likely to dampen, and economies might be pushed into recession, at best, and continued decline. So soon after SONA Numero Dos, the economy is raining upon the parade.

Now let’s see how the much ballyhooed pledges from the President’s 14 foreign trips in the last 13 months turn out into real direct foreign investments.

Government can of course spend more, and the P5.7 trillion proposed budget, wisely spent, could spur economic activity.

But then again, most of that will be eaten up by: first, debt payments including interest; second, some 920 billion in congressional insertions, a.k.a. pork barrel entitlements; third, some 260 billion in military pension payments which continue to grow per year; and personnel salaries of a huge bureaucracy along with its unbridled appetite for wasteful spending in its maintenance and operating expenses.

There are proposals for tax adjustments, the latest of which is Joey Salceda’s proposed tax increase on luxury products, and he has enumerated quite a few of those products only the very rich can afford to splurge on.

But who are the biggest spenders on luxury?

His colleagues in Congress and their families, plus contractors most of whom are also politicians or politically connected, so will they shoot themselves in the foot?

Will they control their greed by limiting their pork appetites?

Sources say that senators get a minimum of P2 billion each, which doubles, even triples, depending on “abilidad.” Congressmen, almost 300 of them (excluding the few who dare say “nay”), are assured at least P500 million each, while some get fatter slabs amounting to as much as P5 billion each.

And where do these projects go?

Items where the level of commissions are most difficult to detect, allowing for more greed, such as river dredging, flood control, and slope protection, plus the traditional “farm-to-pocket” or “road to my farm” projects.

Yet every typhoon and low pressure area brings rain that causes rivers to overflow and floods ravaging farms and destroying standing crops, while landslides kill.

Meanwhile, LGU officials most of whom are dynasts along with their representatives in Congress, continue to waste their IRA plus Mandanas incremental revenue on beautification, fiestas to regale the voters, while bloating their local bureaucracies with incompetent favorites.

Because the legislature has control of the purse, and the executive kowtows to them who approve the size of the purse and its apportionment, little is left for much needed infrastructure projects like dams and bridges, for which government hopes the private sector will invest through PPP or privatepublic partnerships. Now figure in high interest rates, inflation, and the cost of doing business in a graft-ridden and highly contentious environment into the equation. None but the favored and well-connected who can twist terms of reference to their designs will participate.

Meanwhile, P14.1 trillion in public debt will become P15.7 trillion or higher by 2024. But then again, our policy makers know that Filipinos, especially the lumpen, the “masa” Erap calls them, do not know how to count beyond a few thousands.

So for the elite, “tuloy ang ligaya” while the poor continue to suffer and the wealth gap continues to grow. Cry for the benighted land and its future, with its brains and brawns leaving the Philippines because it’s so hard to love .

IF YOU are unaware that there’s a nursing shortage in the country, perhaps you have not been to a hospital recently either as a patient or as a visitor.

There, you would have noticed that, unlike before, there are fewer nurses at their stations, or doing routine tasks in hospital rooms.

The stark reality today is many of our nurses would rather leave the country in droves to seek the proverbial green pastures in whatever corner of the globe would accept them, simply because they cannot keep body and soul together with the meager salaries they get from both public and private medical facilities here.

According to the Department of Health, there are about 124,000 licensed and registered Filipino nurses who are jobless, underemployed or doing non-related work in BPO call centers.

A lawmaker wants the DOH to track these nurses down and try to convince many of them who are unemployed to work in government hospitals to address the worsening nursing shortage in the country. Health Secretary Ted Herbosa had earlier

CYBERCIME is on the rise, and we are all targets. According to recently released data from the Cybercrime Investigation Coordinating Center (CICC), cybercrime incidents have spiked by 152 percent with 6,250 cases recorded in the first half of this year. The same lifesaving technology that enables the world to survive the pandemic crisis has become the new weapon of cyber criminals for the commission of traditional crimes.

There is a constant risk of financially motivated attacks such as scams, estafa, swindling, fraud, counterfeiting and forgery.

As netizens and mobile phone users, we are already receiving daily anonymous and creatively crafted messages to deceive us into giving sensitive personal information that will be used to hack into bank accounts or e-wallets.

As these cyber syndicates get more information on the online habits of a potential target, vulnerabilities to a person’s reputation may be exploited for black mail schemes.

So many scandals have become viral and have damaged the personas of public figures.

Viewed by millions, these are often obscene and indecent images that offend a person’s sensitivities and have a damaging effect on society’s moral fabric.

Cybercrime is a national security concern as governments are exposed to espionage activity, sabotage, disruption, and politically motivated attacks.

Terrorist groups have been able to use cyberspace for their recruitment and propaganda activities.

This is a dimension of what is now a digitally dependent global environment that all of society must learn to live with.

Having a safe and trusted digital environment is vital to economic resilience and growth.

As we trek this unstoppable journey toward a systemic and hopefully inclusive digital transformation, we must learn to live in both the physical and digital world where the interconnections of opportunities and risks will pose socio-cultural and governance challenges.

Aligned with our ongoing consumer advocacy in CitizenWatch Philippines, we are honored to be engaged as one of the partners of the CICC to help build an anti-cybercrime consciousness among consumers.

During our MOA signing held last Friday, CICC Executive Director, Undersecretary Alexander K. Ramos said that the partnership aims to reach targeted consumers and empower

suggested hiring nursing graduates who failed the board exams amid reports there are an estimated 4,500 nursing vacancies in government hospitals nationwide at present.

The government-accredited national association Filipino Nurses United said a total 29,293 nursing graduates combined passed the last two Nursing Licensure Exams—18,529 in November 2022 and 10,764 in May this year.

It would be interesting to find out how many of them have found jobs here or even abroad, and how many are wasting their expertise on non-nursing work.

One solution to the nursing shortage is

them through cybersecurity training and awareness campaigns.

“Partnerships with government is the solution to cybercrimes,” USec Ramos said.

The CICC is working on a National Cyber

the proposal of the Commission on Higher Education to offer free review classes in top universities for nursing graduates to help them pass the board exams and increase the number of registered Filipino nurses in both public and private hospitals.

The agency said private hospitals have committed to pay for the review of their employees who are non-passers.

It appears only about 50 percent of nursing graduates pass the licensure test.

Thus, CHED wants to hold special review classes for those employed in DOHrun and private hospitals as aides or assistants, so they can pass the licensure test.

Another CHED proposal to address the nursing shortage is the lifting of the 10-year moratorium on the creation of new nursing programs.

In fact, 54 universities have applied to open nursing programs.

CHED is also working with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to train health care and health care associates through a certificate or diploma program.

Will all these work and increase the number of our nurses? Maybe.

But will these necessarily keep them working here?

Or would they simply apply for jobs abroad at the first opportunity?

We can’t blame them if they do.

year in the Committee on trade and industry, chaired and authored by Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Salceda, will help boost the creative industry by eliminating unauthorized or pirated content.

It will empower the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines to shut down websites sharing copyrighted material. A Senate version authored by Sen Jinggoy Estrada is also pending at committee level and will hopefully move forward.

The Department of Trade and Industry is driving the passage of the proposed Internet Transactions Act to institutionalize mechanisms to protect both merchants and consumer transactions online which would include an online business registry and the implementation of an eCommerce Philippine Trustmark.

Just a few days ago, unregistered SIM cards were supposed to have been deactivated in compliance with the SIM registration law that aims to purge the proliferation of anonymous mobile accounts being used for scam syndicates.

IN TIMES gone by, there was the tuned out belief June and July were the “marriest” month for Filipinos, recidivously romantic by nature –given the influence of the cultures of Madrid and Hollywood.

In recent years, others marched down the aisle in other months – it could have been in summer, in the monsoon or even in December as Christmas lights and sounds took the population on a pleasant, if lifting, spin.

But Catholic Church statistics suggests a decline in the number of Filipinos getting married in church and comparatively they are getting older by the dozen.

Marriage in the Catholic Church, also known as holy matrimony, is the “covenant by which a man and woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life and which is ordered by its nature to the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring.”

It “has been raised by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a sacrament between the baptized.”

Catholic matrimonial law, based on Roman law regarding its focus on marriage as a free mutual agreement or contract, became the basis for the marriage law of all European countries, at least up to the Reformation in the 16th century. The canonical form of marriage began to be

Security Plan wherein fighting fraud will be a top priority.

Indeed, there is a gap in cybersecurity awareness among consumers that needs to be addressed as it is the first line of defense against cyber crime activities.

Surfing the internet and various social media and e-commerce platforms has become very amusing that it’s so easy to be fooled by seemingly innocent clickbaits that may lead to malicious infiltration of one’s device.

Cybercrime actors are able to harness the marketing algorithms and artificial intelligence of e-commerce platforms and post ads that can lead to fraud, counterfeit products, and online piracy sites.

Government is just beginning to understand how incompatible the current policy environment is, and it is good to see reforms are underway to upgrade our laws and regulations to be more responsive with the non-linear and dynamic nature of digital technologies and the fast pace of new innovations.

House Bill 7028 approved earlier this

As of this writing, I am still receiving these SMS messages egging me to click their links with cash incentives in partnership with legitimate banks and e-payment platforms to look legitimate.

The President has made several pronouncements pushing for the digital transformation of the government bureaucracy and the acceleration of much needed digital infrastructure as mandated by his recently issued EO 32 streamlining the permitting process telco tower and broadband service related projects.

As consumers, we must become responsible cyber citizens who are aware of our rights to data privacy and be discerning and cautious when we are doing our business online as we are in face to face transactions.

Digital transactions may be convenient and efficient, but online transactions take away the inter-personal feedback and nuances that we have been instinctively using in our dealings as consumers or sellers.

The internet is now an indispensable utility essential to our work and personal lifestyle. Fighting cybercrime needs synergy between the telco networks, the consumers, and the government.

The Ten Commandments for the newly married

required with the decree Tamets issued by the Council of Trent on November 11, 1563.

The decree Ne Temere of Pope Pius X in 1907 made the canonical form a requirement even where the decree of the Council of Trent had not been promulgated. Weddings in which both parties are Catholic Christians are ordinarily held in a Catholic church, while weddings in which one party is a Catholic Christian and the other party is a non-Catholic Christian can be held in a Catholic church or a non-Catholic Christian church.

In in the latter case permission of one’s Bishop or ordinary is required for the marriage to be free of defect of form, according to Church official sources.

In recent years, an average of nearly 178,000 people from the different strata of society tied the marital knot every year – with a dramatic plunge afterwards, the reason, generally, is that church weddings were getting more expensive sans figures actually presented.

Down the economic rung, people tend to get married because an added member—an inlaw—can be an economic asset either because the addition is a member of the work force or can be an effective member in reaping economic benefits for the family.

Others get married because in previous years they bore an offspring, and getting married is among the best norms for social acceptance.

The Ten Commandments, said by the groom’s old man, appeared properly etched on marble

Still some get married to share health insurance benefits or ensure that each spouse is entitled to inheritance upon the other’s death. There are of course, according to marriage counselors, others who marry purely out of love—an intense and passionate relation between a man and a woman.

The marriage is solemnized in a simple or grand ceremony—depending on the financial capability of the couple, mainly the man—that makes the couple, before the public, husband and wife, or the man’s family. This is the formal beginning of a relation where they promise in public that they would “live together during the good or bad times, dur-

ing richness and poverty, misery and health until death do them part.”

Some counselors say there are instances where both, man and woman, “need to compromise and sustain their feelings to live a harmonious life.”

Recently, at an impromptu program of a wedding at a posh hotel in Makati, we heard the groom’s old man deliver his Ten Commandments, spoken straight from the heart—commandments that could have been spoken by even the bride’s father.

The groom’s father was straight to the point, in a lingo that could be easily digested and understood by the witnesses to the church wedding a couple of hours earlier on.

“There will be Ten Commandments which my wife and I hope they will assume as the cornerstone of their married life,” the groom’s father said.

In the father’s chronological sequencing, the commandments are:

First, be humane. Have the feelings proper to a human being; be kind, compassionate and elevating.

Second, be open to each other. Don’t be fastened; be clear, and don’t keep anything from each other.

Third, be noble. Be magnanimous and generous, even as you show the highest level of excellence or worth in everything you do to

enhance both your personal and professional growth.

Fourth, be orotund. You must demonstrate to each other the characteristics of fullness, of strength, not only in body but also in emotions and mind, and of smoothness and impeccable excellence in your strides.

Fifth, be respectful. You must always have the capacity for expression of esteem, of goodwill and regard, which undoubtedly will show your sense of responsibility.

Sixth, be committed. You must be consigned to the present and the future, not only of yourselves but also of your children.

Seventh, be appreciatory. Be expressive of admiration. appreciate the little things that each makes for the conjugal partnership and for your roots.

Eighth, be beneficent. You must be kind and have the disposition, always and at all times, to do good.

Ninth, be irradiant. In whatever you do, you must have the capability to emit rays of light and be immeasurable in your infiniteness toward each other.

Tenth, be equitable and estimable. Be impartial and just; and, at whatever cost, in all the things you do, be worthy of regard, esteem and honor.

The Ten Commandments, said by the groom’s old man, appeared properly etched on marble.

Another CHED proposal to address the nursing shortage is the lifting of the 10year moratorium on the creation of new nursing programs

Surfing the internet and various social media and e-commerce platforms has become very amusing that it’s so easy to be fooled by seemingly innocent clickbaits that may lead to malicious infiltration of one’s device

We are all targets of cybercrime

Report: Possible Chinese malware in US systems a ‘ticking time bomb’

WASHINGTON, DC—The Biden administration believes China has implanted malware in key US power and communications networks in a “ticking time bomb” that could disrupt the military in event of a conflict, The New York Times reported (Sunday in Manila).

The Times, quoting US military, intelligence and security officials, said the malware potentially gave China’s People’s Liberation Army the ability to disrupt US military operations if Beijing were to move against Taiwan at some point.

The systems affected, the Times said, could allow China not only to cut off water, power and communications to US military bases, but also to homes and businesses across the United States.

The report comes two months after Microsoft warned that state-sponsored

Chinese hackers had infiltrated critical US infrastructure networks.

Microsoft singled out Guam, a US Pacific territory with a vital military outpost, as one target but said malicious activity had also been detected elsewhere in the United States.

It said the stealthy attack, carried out since mid-2021, was likely aimed at hampering the United States in the event of a regional conflict.

Authorities in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Britain warned at the same time that Chinese hacking was likely taking place globally, affecting an extensive range of infrastructure.

Discovery of the malware, the Times said, sparked a series of meetings in the White House Situation Room involving top military, intelligence and national security officials to track down and eradicate the code. AFP

MOSCOW CITY—Three

Ukrainian drones were downed over Moscow early Sunday, Russia’s defense ministry said, in an attack that briefly shut an international airport.

While one of the drones was shot down on the city’s outskirts, two others were “suppressed by electronic warfare” and smashed into an office complex.

No one was injured.

Moscow and its environs, lying about 500 kilometers from the Ukrainian border, had been rarely

targeted during the conflict in Ukraine until several drone attacks this year.

The attack reported Sunday was the latest in a series of recent drone assaults—including on the Kremlin and Russian towns near the border with Ukraine —that Moscow has blamed on Kyiv.

The defense ministry called it an “attempted terrorist attack”.

“On the morning of July 30, the Kyiv regime’s attempted terrorist attack with unmanned aerial vehicles on objects in the city of Moscow was thwarted,” it said on Telegram.

“One Ukrainian UAV was destroyed in the air by air defense systems over the territory of the Odintsovo district of Moscow region.

NLP/trc

“Two more drones were suppressed by electronic warfare and, having lost control, crashed on the territory of Moscow City’s non-residential building complex.”

Moscow City is a commercial development to the city’s west.

City Mayor Sergei Sobyanin posted on Telegram the “facades of two city office towers were slightly damaged.”

He added that there were “no victims or injured.”

The TASS state news agency reported the capital’s Vnukovo airport was “closed for departures and arrivals, flights are redirected to other airports.”

Within less than an hour, operations appeared to have returned to normal. AFP

Cubao, Quezon City. The midwife assured his parents that she woul take care of registration of petitioner’s birth. The midwife also inform his parents that he could not use the surname “Medina” since it is prohibited by law. When they secured a copy of his birth certificate, they were surprised to find that the name of their son is registered as “Adrian Nicole”. When asked, the midwife told his mother that she could not recall the name the parents wanted and thought of a name for the child. While they find the name unpleasant as it seemed to refer

ATHENS—Two weeks of sweltering heat and wildfires have confirmed fears that Greece’s ecosystem is under increasing risk, experts say.

Some 50,000 hectares of forest and vegetation have been left scorched, according to estimates by the National Observatory of Athens. This makes the month of July the worst in 13 years in terms of burned land, said Charalampos Kontoes, a research director at the observatory.

“It was a dry winter, and spring rains were not enough to maintain” moisture in the soil, Kontoes told AFP.

Civil protection minister Vassilis Kikilias this week said crews had battled more than 660 blazes this month, an average of 50 to 70 fires a day. Businesses and farms on the tourist islands of Corfu and Rhodes, Greece’s second-largest island of Evia and the countryside near Volos, central Greece, bore the brunt of the damage this year.

The Greek state association insuring farmers, ELGA, estimates that 50,000 olive trees and 2,500 animals and beehives have been destroyed on Rhodes.

In the Volos area, the organisation said it had found “significant losses” in harvested grain and grapes, in addition to farm machinery and buildings.

Major losses in livestock have also hit, it added.

Greece suffers forest fires every year. In 2007, they left 84 dead in the Peloponnese peninsula and Evia. In 2018, 103 people died in Mati, a seaside resort near Athens. AFP

NAIROBI, Kenya—Kenya is ready to lead a multinational force in Haiti and will deploy 1,000 police officers to the strife-torn Caribbean nation once its offer is accepted, the foreign minister said.

Gangs control around 80 percent of the Haitian capital, and violent crimes such as kidnappings for ransom, armed robbery and carjackings are common.

“Kenya has accepted to positively consider leading a Multi-National Force to Haiti. Kenya’s commitment is to deploy a contingent of 1,000 police officers to help train and assist Haitian police restore normalcy in the country and protect strategic installations,” Alfred Mutua said in a statement. Its “proposed deployment” still required a mandate from the UN Security Council and approval from domestic authorities, he said.

“An Assessment Mission by a Task Team of the Kenya Police is scheduled within the next few weeks. This assessment will inform and guide the mandate and operational requirements of the Mission.” No other details were immediately available.

With Haitian security forces overwhelmed, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry have called for an international intervention to help support the police.

Ahead of the Kenyan announcement, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Saturday that progress was being made toward establishing a multinational peacekeeping force for Haiti.

“My expectation is that we will have some progress to report on that very soon,” he said.

Kenya has deployed its forces abroad for peacekeeping in the past, including in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Somalia. AFP

Sex abuse report casts shadow over pope’s Portugal visit

LISBON, Portugal—Pope Francis heads to Portugal next week for a global gathering of young Catholics as the country grapples with a report into decades of sexual abuse of children by members of the Church.

The 86-year-old pontiff arrives in Lisbon on Wednesday and is expected to meet in private with victims of clergy abuse during his five-day visit to attend World Youth Day.

Organizers expect up to one million people will take part in the event which is being held for the

first time since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

It comes after an independent commission published a report in February that found “at least” 4,815 children were sexually abused by clergy members in the country— mostly priests—since 1950.

The inquiry, based on testimony from more than 500 victims, concluded Portugal’s Church hierarchy “systematically” tried to conceal the abuse.

The results of the inquiry, commissioned by the Church in Portugal, has tainted the institution in

the country where 80 percent of its population of some 10 million people identify as Roman Catholic.

A poll by Lisbon’s Catholic University of Portugal found 68 percent of all Portuguese feel the Church’s image has deteriorated.

The Portugal Church hierarchy has apologized to the victims and recognized that “the culture of the Church” must change.

But it has appeared divided, with some bishops more reluctant than others to suspend priests targeted by complaints. AFP

Kenya ready to lead 1,000 troops in Haiti

Greek ecosystems face increasing fire risk, worst in 13 years–experts

DRONE ATTACK. A view of a damaged office block of the Moscow International Business Center (Moskva City) following a reported drone attack in Moscow on Sunday. Three Ukrainian drones were downed, Russia’s defense ministry said, in an attack that briefly shut an international airport. No one was injured. AFP

SCORCHING HEAT. A woman sits under the shade of a tree overlooking the old town of the Greek Island of Corfu, during a heatwave, the other day. Wildfires have been raging in Greece amid scorching temperatures, forcing mass evacuations in several tourist spots including on the islands of Rhodes and Corfu. AFP

DOTr plans to privatize bundled MRT-3, LRT-2 operations by 2025

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Transportation plans to bundle and privatize the operations and maintenance of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 and Light Rail Transit Line 2 by 2025, an official said over the weekend.

“Our direction is 25 years to 30 years concession agreement for MRT 3, and we are studying to bundle it with LRT Line 2,” Transportation Undersecretary for Railways Cesar Chavez said.

“Our plan is to combine the good cake, and the not so good cake to make it attractive. We need to decide between

IN BRIEF

Stock to move sideways on Q2 profits, July inflation

LOCAL stocks are expected move sideways this week as investors’ focus shift to secondquarter corporate earnings and July inflation report. Analysts said a strong second-quarter earnings could boost market sentiments in the second half of the year.

“Investors are expected to look forward to more Q2 corporate reports. Hopes that the upcoming Q2 corporate results would be strong may help in sustaining the market’s position above the 6,600 support line,” Philstocks Financial Inc. research head Japhet Tantiangco said.

Tantiangco said investors would also look towards the upcoming July inflation data.

“A continued downtrend in inflation is seen to spur optimism which in turn could lift the market higher,” he said.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index failed to break the 6,700 level last week because of the US Federal Reserve’s latest policy rate hike and its openness for further monetary tightening in September.

The index slipped 22 points or 0.34 percent week-on-week to close at 6,625.92.

Jenniffer B. Austria

CREBA calls for review of Balance Housing Act

HOMEBUILDERS and property developers called for a review of Republic Act No. 10884 or the Balance Housing Act which aims to strike a balance on housing production and the increasing cost of building homes.

The Chamber of Real Estate and Builders Association said the required socialized component of a home/housing project was outrun by the rising cost of construction materials and increase in labor costs.

“The intent of the law is to build houses, but developers cannot build under those terms right now,” said CREBA president Noel Cariño.

“That’s why we call for a review of private sector participation on the Balance of Housing of 5 and 15 percent for vertical developments and subdivisions, respectfully,” he said.

He said the industry was compliant with the directive of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development “on paper, but the question is does this really reflect genuine compliance.” The law encourages compliance, whether real deal compliance or alternative mode of compliance that is allowed by the government, or the developers would not be issued license to sell by the DHSUD.

Othel V. Campos

Nasugbu residents want Meralco as its distributor

RESIDENTS and establishments in Nasugbu, Batangas are asking for transfer of their electricity service to Manila Electric Co. because of alleged frequent power outages in the area.

Energy Regulatory Commission chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta said Nasugbu residents raised their concern to the commission. “They already told us about that, [but] that’s for Congress to decide,” Dimalanta said.

More than 22,000 residents signed the petition, representing nearly 70 percent of all households in the municipality. They urged the transfer of their electricity service from Batangas I Electric Cooperative to Meralco.

The residents sought the help of Nasugbu Mayor Tony Barcelon and authorized him to initiate discussions with Meralco, the country’s largest power distributor. The residents said having stable electricity from Meralco would uplifting their livelihood and improve their quality of life.

Barcelon conveyed the grievances of his constituents to both Batelec I and relevant government agencies overseeing electric cooperatives. Alena Mae S. Flores

now and July 2024,” he said.

Chavez said the build-lease-transfer agreement between the government and Metro Rail Transit Corp., the builder of MRT 3, would lapse by 2025.

He said once the government decides to bundle the two rail systems, MRT 3 would be transferred to the Light Rail

Transit Authority which operates and maintains the LRT Line 2. Light Rail Manila Corp., a private consortium, operates Light Rail Transit Line 1 and is in charge of its expansion project.

The government operates MRT 3, while the MRTC, owned by Metro Rail Transit Holdings II Inc. led by businessman Robert John Sobrepeña, was responsible for the design and construction of the EDSA rail transit system.

Formed in 1995, MRTC started building MRT 3 in October 1996, completed it in December 1999 and started full operations in July 2020.

MRTC and the government through the Department of Transportation and Communications signed the BLT agree-

ment in 1997 to construct and maintain MRT 3.

The partnership required the DOTr to hold the franchise and run the system, particularly the operation and the collection of fares. MRTC built the system, maintained the same to guarantee the availability of the trains at specified headway and specified hours and procured the required spare parts, while the government paid MRTC monthly fees for a certain number of years.

MRTC financed the construction of the modern rail system stretching along EDSA’s 10.5-meter median from North Ave. in Quezon City to Taft Avenue in Pasay City. The company infused P4.49 billion worth of equity into the project.

Core inflation still elevated, says Remolona

By Julito G. Rada

MONETARY authorities should remain on their toes despite the softening of inflation in the past five months from a peak of 8.7 percent in January 2023, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Eli Remolona Jr. said over the weekend.

Remolona, in a speech during the BSP’s 30th anniversary reception for the banking community Friday night, underscored the still elevated core inflation.

Core inflation, the change in the costs of goods and services, excludes volatile food and energy prices.

“It’s too soon to declare [a] victory. Core inflation remains high. There are still upside risks to inflation. For example, risks in the form of El Niño and further supply shocks. We will wait and see,” Remolona said.

“We will analyze the data as they arrive, and that analysis will decide monetary policy down the road,” he said.

Inflation in June slowed to a 13-month low of 5.4 percent from 6.1 percent in May, pulled down by slower increases in the prices of food and non-alcoholic beverages. This was also slower than 6.1 percent in June 2022.

Inflation averaged 7.2 percent in the first half of 2023, above the target range of 2 percent to 4 percent for the whole year.

CLEARING OPERATIONS. Manila Electric Co.’s line crew conduct clearing operations to help speed up the restoration of electricity service in Ilocos Norte province and aid the families severely affected by the onslaught of Super Typhoon Egay. Meralco is ready to deploy additional crew and engineers, and is in continuous coordination with the local government.

New Wave, Malaysian fund to invest in PH renewable projects

By Alena Mae S. Flores

PRIVATE equity investor New Wave Strategic Holdings Inc.

teamed up with Malaysian government-backed fund Emissary Capital Partners Sdn Bhd to invest $50 million in the Philippines’ renewable energy market that can generate up to 1,000 megawatts of capacity.

The proposal was presented to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during his three-day Malaysian state visit last week. The investment will partly fund companies in the RE sector including solar and wind farms in Northern Luzon.

“It is important that the Philippines develop a more mature eco-system with capital providers across various stages of the investment cycle. With Emissary’s entry into the Philippines, we are providing more founders and entrepreneurs access to growth capital as well as a regional network that can help them expand across SEA,” said New Wave director Enrique Gonzalez said.

Part of the funds will also go to the electric vehicle industry and clean energy and smart grid enablers, he said.

“Our value proposition is more than capital. We help businesses scale within the Philippines and can open up regional Southeast Asia access,” Gonzalez said.

New Wave and Emissary Capital identified the early stages of RE projects as the most challenging for companies to raise capital because of the perceived risks. They said equipping developers with an additional war chest with value-added involvement in predevelopment work would translate into attractive returns for the funds.

Based on the parties’ estimates, the establishment of a 1,000-MW bankable concession could generate an additional foreign direct investment of over $1.5 billion to complete the construction and operation of targeted sites.

The parties said the investment would support the government’s target of increasing the share of renewable energy in the country’s total energy mix to 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040 as outlined in the updated Philippine Energy Development Plan.

Core inflation settled at 7.4 percent in June from 7.7 percent in May 2023. Core inflation averaged 7.7 percent in the first six months.

The BSP raised the key interest rates by a total of 425 basis points from May 2022 to March 2023, before taking a prudent pause in the last two Monetary Board meetings amid the sustained easing of inflation.

UnionDigital

Capital A taps UnionDigital Bank to expand ‘fintech’ business in PH

MALAYSIA’S Capital A teamed up with UnionDigital Bank, a subsidiary of Union Bank of the Philippines, to expand its financial technology business in the Philippines.

UnionDigital Bank’s collaboration with BigPay, a leading mobile wallet providing financial services in Malaysia and Singapore, solidifies its expansion in the Philippine market. BigPay, under the partnership, aims to serve Philippine customers with secure and frictionless financial services to improve their financial health and management in the long run.

“As tourism flourishes in the region, we are excited to elevate the end-to-end travel and payment experience of Filipinos through our

collaboration with UnionDigital Bank and airasia [Superapp],” said BigPay chief executive Zubin Rada Krishnan.

“Through this partnership, BigPay is one step closer to making our financial services highly accessible in the Philippines, with the mission of empowering people to level up their lives, one transaction at a time,” he said.

AirAsia is the airline business of Capital A, while airasia Superapp is the one-stop travel platform offering services from flights, hotels, ride-hailing, loyalty programs and more.

“For Capital A, the vision has always been to provide low cost, best value services, connecting people and realizing dreams, for people

of ASEAN and beyond. With UnionDigital as our proud partner, we are now on our way to creating a future where travel meets innovative financial solutions that facilitate everyone’s dream journeys with unparalleled ease,” said Capital A chief executive Tony Fernandes.

“We look forward to working with UnionDigital to redefine travel coupled with fintech as an accessible and enriching experience,” he said.

Fernades said data showed that seven of 10 of customers in the Philippines save up for travel plans, carefully budgeting to ensure they can explore the world comfortably. Darwin G. Amojelar

Bank, the digital bank subsidiary of Union Bank of the Philippines, forms a strategic partnership with Capital A’s subsidiaries BigPay and airasia Superapp. Unveiling the collaborations at the APEC Business Advisory Council meeting press conference in Cebu are (from left) Capital A chief executive Tony Fernandes, BigPay chief executive Zubin Rada Krishnan, UnionDigital Bank president and chief executive Henry Aguda and Aboitiz Group president and chief executive Sabin Aboitiz. The partnership is expected to enhance the travel experience of frequent fliers with flexible payment options with a Fly Now, Pay Later offer available in the airasia Superapp, and exclusive co-branding deals.

BSP Gov. Eli Remolona Jr.

Global effort to protect mangrove forests succeeding, says FAO report

ROME—The world is making progress towards ending the loss of mangrove forests, a new report from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations said last week.

Found on the coastlines of 123 countries worldwide, over 20 percent of mangroves are estimated to have been lost globally over the past 40 years, mainly due to both human activities and natural retraction.

The World’s Mangroves, 2000–2020, launched Wednesday on the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, reports that the total global area of mangroves in 2020 stood at 14.8 million hectares.

But while 677,000 hectares of mangroves were lost between 2000 and 2020, the rate at which they are disappearing fell by almost a quarter (23 percent) in the second decade, according to the report.

The study also reveals mangroves, unlike other forests, can spread very fast given the chance.

Some 393,000 hectares of new mangrove forests—an area equivalent to 550,000 football pitches—have grown in areas where they were not present in 2000, offsetting more than half of the global loss in the last 20 years.

Asia, which hosts almost half the world’s mangroves, showed a 54-percent decrease in mangrove area net loss in the last twenty years. Net loss

WHO warns global warming causing rise in dengue cases

also decreased in Africa, while North and Central America reversed the trend and recorded a mangrove area net gain between 2010 and 2020. Increases in net loss were reported in South America and Oceania in the same period, however.

“This new study shows positive steps countries are taking towards slowing the loss of mangroves, but also underlines that we must continue to prioritize their restoration, sustainable use and conservation to safeguard their critical services for people and the planet,” said Zhimin Wu, director of FAO’s forestry

(Part

1)

HUMANITY depends on ecosystems, such as forests, wetlands and rivers, to survive. They provide clean water, house animals, like bees, that are essential to food production, and play a key role in combating the climate crisis.

But around the world, landscapes are degrading at an alarming rate, which along with pushing 1 million species towards extinction is taking a mounting economic toll, including on the farming sector.

In Europe, for instance, soil erosion affects 12 million hectares of land–about 7 percent of all farmland–and costs farmers 1.25 billion euros annually in lost productivity, according to European Union data.

division.

“Mangroves have a vital role to play in helping achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, providing food and livelihoods for coastal communities, protecting our coastlines against natural disasters, storing carbon, mitigating climate change, and harboring an extraordinary range of biodiversity,” he added.

Drivers of loss and gain in mangrove areas

Providing some of the most detailed information yet on what is happening to the world’s mangroves, the FAO study combined remote sensing satellite im-

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Station Southern Leyte has planted more than 150 mangroves in the 500-square-meter mangrove forest in Barangay Manhilo, Maasin. In addition to helping prevent soil erosion on shorelines, mangroves are a breeding habitat for many marine life and are a natural coastal defense in storm surges. Philippine Coast Guard

agery and local expert knowledge to collect and analyze data across five regions over the 20-year period, including on the drivers of mangrove loss.

While most aquaculture practices do not affect mangroves, pond shrimp aquaculture, one of the main causes of mangrove loss, went from causing 31 percent of all loss between 2000 and 2010 to 21 percent between 2010 and 2020, according to the report.

Natural retraction was the second most important driver of mangrove loss, causing 26 percent of loss over the 20year period, at least partly caused by in-

tensifying impacts of climate change such as rising sea levels and temperatures.

Natural disasters accounted for only 2 percent of all loss over the 20-year period. However, the area they destroyed increased threefold and is expected to worsen, the report warns, leaving coastal communities even more vulnerable to storm surges, floods and tsunamis.

In terms of drivers of mangrove area gain, natural expansion accounted for 82 percent of all the gains in mangrove area over the two decades, and restoration for the remaining 18 percent.

The findings of the study will help inform more targeted strategies for ending mangrove loss in different parts of the world.

The publication recommends that efforts to address land-use drivers of mangrove loss should continue, directing agricultural development to conserve remaining mangrove forests and promoting their sustainable use as well as livelihood support for coastal communities.

And as mangroves are among the most carbon-rich ecosystems on Earth, storing an estimated 6.23 giga tons of carbon worldwide in their biomass and soils, they should also be further emphasized in climate mitigation strategies, according to the publication.

The report was officially launched last week at a joint FAO-UNESCO celebration of International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem at the 6th International Mangrove Macrobenthos and Management Conference in Cartagena, Colombia. FAO News

A worker fumigates a house against the Aedes aegypti mosquito to prevent the spread of dengue fever in a neighborhood in Piura, northern Peru. AFP

GLOBAL warming marked by higher average temperatures, precipitation and longer periods of drought, could prompt a record number of dengue infections worldwide, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned.

“About half of the world’s population is at risk of dengue, and dengue affects approximately 129 countries,” said Dr. Raman Velayudhan, WHO’s head of the Global Program on control of Neglected Tropical Diseases.

The United Nations agency working to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable.

“We estimate that about 100 to 400 million cases are reported every year. This is basically an estimate and the American region alone has reported about 2.8 million cases and 101,280 deaths.”

Dengue, also called breakbone fever, is the most common viral infection that spreads from mosquitoes to people. Most people with dengue do not have symptoms and recover in one to two weeks. But some people develop severe dengue and need hospital care.

“In some cases, especially when you get the infection for the second time, which we call a secondary infection, this can lead to severe dengue and it can be fatal too,” said Velayudhan in a recent briefing with journalists at the UN in Geneva.

Dengue is spread by the Aedes species of mosquito. The disease is more common in tropical and subtropical climates. Its incidence has grown dramatically worldwide in recent decades, said Velayudhan.

“In 2000, we had about half a million cases and today in 2022 we recorded over 4.2 million, which really shows an eight-fold increase.” He said that number could well increase “as we get more and more accurate figures.” UN News

“Unsustainable land-use practices from the way we build cities to the way we grow food is harming not just the planet and our livelihoods but our ability to feed 8 billion people,” said Natalia Alekseeva, UNEP coordinator for the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. “Ecosystem restoration and nature-based solutions have proven to bring countless benefits to communities and societies around the world,” she added.

Globally, there is growing momentum to revive natural spaces, both on land and below water, that have been marred by human development, a process known as ecosystem restoration. Experts say that along with protecting nature, this can help farmers boost their yields and bolster global food security. It is estimated that every dollar invested in land restoration and sustainable land management can yield up to US$30 in economic benefits, including increased crop yields, improved water availability and reduced land degradation. Similar benefits hold true for fisheries. Two-thirds of ocean ecosystems are degraded or modified and one-third of marine fish populations are fished unsustainably. However, restoring mangrove forests along coastal areas, where young fish breed, could add 60 trillion edible fish to coastal waters every year. Here’s a closer look at three ways humanity can restore landscapes and supercharge food production. Revive the soil

Roughly 80 per cent of global arable land is impacted by at least one form of degradation, such as aridity, vegetation

decline, soil salinization and loss of soil carbon. Soil erosion alone affects about one-fifth of farmlands worldwide and is estimated to have increased by 2.5 per cent between 2001 and 2012, primarily due to deforestation and cropland expansion.

Land degradation already negatively impacts 3.2 billion people–that’s 40 per cent of the world’s population. And it is projected that land degradation could reduce global food productivity by 12 per cent, causing food prices to soar by up to 30 per cent by 2040.

Restoring soil fertility and structure can be done in several ways, including rotating crops, applying organic matter and practicing minimal or zero tillage farming.

A prime example of this kind of work comes from Africa, where along the semi-arid margins of the Sahara Desert, 11 countries are building what has become known as the Great Green Wall, a continent wide ribbon of vegetation. In many places, the barrier is helping to hold back the desert, which states are hopeful will help bolster food security, counter poverty and promote peace. UNEP News Full story at www.manilastandard.net

Jollibee Group vows commitment to food safety

FOOD safety has always been the Jollibee Group’s anchor in serving great-tasting food and maintaining its customers’ trust worldwide. As part of its Global Sustainability Agenda dubbed Joy for Tomorrow, the company is reinforcing its commitment to sustainable food safety practices across its supply chain.

“Food safety has always been part of our DNA. Across all our brands, we go to great lengths to ensure safety in all our practices―from food production and handling to processing and distribution,” said Wally Mateo, Jollibee Group vice president and head of quality management.

Jollibee Group conducts yearly food safety inspections and certifications across all its stores, commissaries, and logistics. In 2022, the company conducted over 15,000 food, service, cleanliness and condition audits across all its stores worldwide. Jollibee Group employees also received over 125,000 online training hours on ensuring food safety and service quality.

The Jollibee Group uses risk-based and flexible methodologies to thoroughly verify the food safety and quality systems of its suppliers, commissaries, and distribution centers. It also conducts annual risk assessments to determine the appropriate audit mode, which is tailored fit to the store’s needs and to the season or external conditions during the

Aggregator riders have an important role to play in ensuring food safety for customers, which is why part of this year’s World Food Safety Day Celebration of the Jollibee Group is an initiative to educate riders on food safety.

audit period.

As of 2022, 100 percent of the Jollibee Group’s commissaries have their own internal audit system, which adheres to at least one external globally recognized standard such as Food Safety System Certification (FSSC), Safe Quality Foods (SQF), and ISO22000, among others. In addition, 94 percent of its commissaries have obtained third-party certifications

Coca-Cola PH, partner push for circular economy

LAGUNA, Philippines―Three years ago, Coca-Cola Philippines and Plastic Bank Philippines made a pact to support a circular economy in the Philippines by creating the Ecosystem Impact Program.

It is an initiative that builds collection and recycling systems in communities to prevent plastic bottles from ending up in places where they should not be―including our rivers, oceans, and landfills―while at the same time, empowering workers in the solid waste management sector.

Since then, their efforts have resulted in the collection of more than 8.7 million bottles for recycling and the activation of 33 waste collection centers across Cavite and Laguna, many of which are located in coastal communities.

Through the support of Coca-Cola Philippines, the Plastic Bank ecosystem now has 600 waste collection members, equipped with tools and equipment for efficient waste collection, financial and business literacy, operations management, and health and sanitation.

The partnership is aligned with The CocaCola Company’s World Without Waste global sustainable packaging strategy, whereby the company aims to make 100 percent of its packaging recyclable globally by 2025, use at least 50 percent recycled plastic in its packaging by 2030, help collect the equivalent of every can and bottle it sells by 2030, and bring people together to support a healthy, debrisfree environment. Ocean defenders

Coca-Cola Philippines recognizes the role that waste collection locations play as part of the “backbone” of solid waste management in the country. “Through these high-profile waste collection locations, many consumers are encouraged to segregate their waste and recycle,” said Atty. Cashmer Dirampaten, Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability Director, East Region of Coca-Cola ASEAN & South Pacific East Operating Unit.

“They encourage consumers to bring recyclable plastic bottles to waste collection locations so those can be reused, instead of being thrown away and ending up in places where they should not be.”

from audits recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). The Jollibee Group also recognizes the importance of maintaining food safety standards in the transport, storage, and distribution of food products. Therefore, the company ensures 100 percent of its third-party logistics providers in the Philippines acquire ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems certification.

Guido Sarreal, Plastic Bank Regional HR Business Partner for the Asia-Pacific Region, acknowledges Coca-Cola Philippines for its continuous support to the Plastic Bank Ecosystem and its waste collection members. “We are very honored and privileged to have an organization like Coca-Cola Philippines that is sincere in their efforts in helping drive a circular economy for plastic packaging, and in helping our partners and collectors increase their capacity, capability, and ability to thrive and to support their families,” Sarreal said.

Why restoring nature is good for our farmers and fishermen

Cavitex shoots for 2nd straight PBA 3x3 title

CAVITEX tries to become the first team to win back-to-back honors in the PBA 3x3 First Conference Season 3 as Ayala Malls Manila Bay hosts Leg 5 starting Monday.

The Braves were just a week removed from topping Leg 4 when they toppled TNT Triple Giga, 21-17.

Focused in its bid, the 3x3 team of NLEX shuffled its roster by inserting Dominick Fajardo for Tonino Gonzaga and goes with the trio of Kenneth Ighalo, Bong Galanza, and former national team player Jorey Napoles.

Cavitex opens its campaign against Terrafirma at 1:50 p.m. in the latter part of another heavy 13-game schedule in Day 1 of pool play.

Joining the Braves and Dyip in Pool A is Northport

Tagaytay Combat Sports Complex now open to public

THE Tagaytay Combat Sports Complex, a visionary initiative spearheaded by Tagaytay Mayor and Philippine Olympic Committee President, Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, is now open to the public.

Officials say the project was brought to life with the aim to inspire athletes of all ages, from the young and aspiring talents to seasoned competitors, providing them with a dedicated space for their training, events, and more.

Boasting of ample space, the Tagaytay Combat Sports Complex can comfortably accommodate approximately 1,400 participants at any given time.

The carefully designed facilities cater to a wide array of combat sports, making it an ideal venue for disciplines such as boxing, judo, karate, taekwondo, wrestling, and many others.

The picturesque location of the complex in the city of Tagaytay further adds to the allure, providing athletes with a breathtaking backdrop to find focus and motivation.

Batang Pier.

TNT, winner of Leg 3, leads Pool B behind the quartet of Almond Vosotros, Ping Exciminiano, Samboy De Leon, and Gryann Mendoza.

With the Triple Giga in Pool B are San Miguel Beermen, Blackwater Smooth Razor, and Purefoods TJ Titans.

Comprising Pool C on the other hand, are Meralco, Wilcon Depot, Pioneer Elastoseal, and Leg 1 and 2 winner Barangay Ginebra.

Purefoods tangles with Blackwater to open hostilities at 10:30 a.m.

The knockout stage featuring the top eight teams from pool play, will be held on Tuesday.

Champion of the penultimate leg of the First Conference will receive P100,000.

Donaire fails in bid to win WBC crown, no decision yet to retire

LOS ANGELES—Mexico’s Alexandro Santiago earned a unanimous 12-round decision over former four-division champion Nonito Donaire on Saturday to claim the vacant World Boxing Council bantamweight world title.

Santiago, 27, claimed the first world title of his career as he denied the 40-year-old “Filipino Flash,” who was aiming to rebound from a brutal second-round knockout loss to Japan’s Naoya Inoue 13 months ago.

Donaire, who has held world titles at flyweight, bantamweight, superbantamweight and featherweight, was

aiming to become the oldest reigning champ in the division. He kept it close in the early going and rocked Santiago with a left hook in the third round.

But he couldn’t match Santiago’s pace as the fight progressed, the Mexican landing a barrage of convincing blows in the ninth round

and quickly halting Donaire’s momentum in the when the Philippines fighter came out looking to land a big blow.

One judge scored the bout 115-113 and the other two saw it 116-112 for Santiago, who improved to 28-3 with five drawn and 14 knockouts.

“It’s been an honor to fight such a legend like Nonito Donaire,” said Santiago, who was brought to tears in the ring as Donaire offered a congratulatory hug in the ring.

Donaire fell to 42-8 with 28 knockouts and said he thought he had more go do in the ring.

“Disappointed,” he admitted, but

added: “I feel good still. I love the sport so much.”

He said he and his wife, Rachel, who trains and manages him, will have a conversation to “see where we go from there.

“But I know I felt good,” he said. “There were just some things that didn’t trigger.”

Was that because he’s 40 years old, Donaire was asked.

“I say ‘Hell no’ to that,” he said.

The fight at T-Mobile Arena was on the undercard of the highly anticipated welterweight world title unification bout between unbeaten Americans Errol Spence and Te rence Crawford. AFP

Crawford punishes Spence to claim undisputed welterweight world belt

LOS ANGELES—Terence Crawford punished Errol Spence on the way to a ninth-round technical knockout to claim the undisputed welterweight world title in Las Vegas on Saturday.

Unbeaten Crawford had knocked down Spence three times and had his previously unbeaten foe staggering under a hail of blows when referee Harvey Dock called a halt at 2:32 in the ninth.

Crawford added Spence’s World Boxing Association, World Boxing Council and International Boxing Federation titles to his own World Boxing Organization crown.

Crawford became the first undisputed welterweight world champion of boxing’s four-belt era, which began in 2004.

A former lightweight and undisputed

ADELAIDE—Nouhaila Benzina became the first player to wear a hijab during a Women’s World Cup game when she sported the Muslim headscarf in Morocco’s match against South Korea on Sunday.

World governing body FIFA lifted its ban on footballers wearing the hijab nearly a decade ago, after previous concerns over player safety.

The 25-year-old defender Benzina, who plays her club football in Morocco, ran out against South Korea in Adelaide to write her name in the history books.

Benzina shared social media posts in the lead-up to the World Cup about wearing a hijab, but has not spoken to the media in Australia and New Zealand about it.

She told broadcaster Al Jazeera recently it would be a proud moment.

“Lots of work was done over many years, and thank God it had a positive result,” she said.

light welterweight world champion, he became the first man to win all the belts in two weight divisions.

“It means everything because of who

“We hope to play at a high level and honour Moroccans.”

Several other sports have lifted hijab bans in recent years including basketball, but it is still not allowed during official football matches in France.

The Moroccan women, coached by Frenchman Reynald Pedros, are at their first Women’s World Cup on the back of a historic runners-up finish at the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. They were thrashed 6-0 by Germany in their tournament opener, with Benzina remaining on the bench. AFP

I took the belts from,” Crawford said.

“They tried to blackball me, they kept me out, they kept me out. They talked bad about me, they said I wasn’t good enough,

that I couldn’t beat these top welterweights, and I just kept my head to the sky and I kept praying to God that I would get the opportunity to show the world who Terence Crawford is.”

“And tonight, I believe I showed how great I am,” added Crawford, who improved to 40-0 with 31 knockouts, taking his string of knockouts to 11 fights.

That includes all eight of his fights at welterweight.

It was a stunningly dominant performance in what was expected to be a close fight, one that had drawn comparisons to classic welterweight matchups such as Roberto Duran v Sugar Ray Leonard and to more recent mega-fights like Floyd Mayweather’s 2015 victory over Manny Pacquiao.

Music superstar Eminem provided in-person accompaniment for Crawford’s walk to the ring. The sellout crowd at T-Mobile Arena included a who’s-who of boxing royalty headlined by heavyweight greats Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield and also featuring Mayweather and Pacquiao. AFP

Nonito Donaire connects with a left hook to the face of Alexandro Santiago during their WBC World Bantamweight Championship bout at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. AFP

POC chief and Tagaytay mayor Abraham Tolentino

Terrence Crawford shows his championship belts after defeating Errol Spence Jr. in the World Welterweight Championship bout. AFP South Korea’s forward Park Eun-Sun (left) and Morocco’s defender Nouhaila Benzina ght for the ball during the Australia and New Zealand 2023 Women’s World Cup Group H football match between South Korea and Morocco at Hindmarsh Stadium in Adelaide. AFP

THE core of the national’s men’s team competing in ongoing Southeast Asian Volleyball League (V.League) will banner the country’s return to the Asian Games in Hangzhou in China in September.

Though still in the hunt for a breakthrough win, the bulk of the Filipino spikers currently playing in the SEA V.League will be tasked to carry the fight in the 19th Asiad in September, according to Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNFV) president Ramon “Tats” Suzara.

“I think the core players here will definitely go to the Asian Games,” said Suzara at the sidelines of the SEA V.League, his brainchild tournament with Thailand federation president Shanrit Wongprasert, in the City of Santa Rosa in Laguna.

Among the anticipated leaders for the Philippines’ Asiad comeback after 49 years are the troika of Bryan Bagunas, Marck Espejo and rising star Steven Rotter.

The last time the Philippines played in the Asian Games was in 1974 in Tehran where the country finished in sixth place.

Bagunas and Espejo missed the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia last summer but returned to the team with a bang while Rotter has been a revelation so far for the Philippines since the SEA Games, Asian Volleyball Confederation Challenge Cup and the SEA V. League.

The Philippines finished 10th in its AVC debut and fifth in the SEA Games. In the second leg of the SEA V.League, the local spikers after a winless Leg 1 campaign in Jakarta last week, have been

Suzara: PH volley back in Asiad after 49 years

showing huge improvement so far.

Suzara said the youth power of Rotter and the wealth of experience of the Bagunas-Espejo combo could do wonders for the Philippines in an expected tough Asiad campaign.

“I think we’re back in the level of men’s

volleyball. We have new young players coming in and with the experience of Bagunas and Espejo, it will drive more encouragement enthusiasm to our national team,” Suzara said. This time, the country will be in for a tall order in Hangzhou after being

bunched with Volleyball Nations League bronze medalist and 16-time Asian Games champion Japan, SEA Games king Indonesia and Afghanistan.

“I hope that this will continue. I know we have a lot of work to do in many aspects,” Suzara said. “But we will get there.”

Video shows Bronny playing piano after hospital release

LOS ANGELES—LeBron James shared a video of eldest son Bronny James playing the piano on Saturday, five days after the teenager suffered a cardiac arrest during practice with his college team.

The video posted on Instagram by NBA superstar James showed 18-yearold Bronny playing on the piano with younger brother Bryce and sister Zhuri watching nearby.

“A man of many talents,” LeBron James can be heard to say after the brief performance.

In a caption accompanying the video, James wrote: “(Bronny) you are amazing!!! Simple as that! Keep going...We’re here right with you every step of the way.”

Meanwhile separate photographs

published by the TMZ.com celebrity news website on Saturday showed LeBron James, Bronny James and the rest of the family heading out for dinner in Santa Monica, California on Friday.

Bronny James was rushed to hospital on Monday after collapsing during a pre-season training session with the University of Southern California basketball team.

Cedars Sinai Medical Center staff said on Thursday the teenager had been discharged from hospital and was now resting at home.

“Although his workup will be ongoing, we are hopeful for his continued progress and are encouraged by his response, resilience, and his family and community support,” the hospital said in a statement.

According to the American Heart Association, only about 1 in 10 people survive an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, which occurs when the heart stops abruptly with little or no warning.

James’ cardiac arrest came just over a year after another USC basketball player, Vince Iwuchukwu, suffered heart failure and collapsed during an informal practice. Iwuchukwu subsequently made a full recovery.

Bronny James committed to playing for the USC Trojans in May after becoming one of the top prospects in US high school basketball.

He capped a stellar senior year campaign at the exclusive Sierra Canyon school in Los Angeles with 15 points in an all-star game of top college candidates, sinking five 3-pointers. AFP

Mercado steals show in PPS Olivarez; Bona triumphs

CHLOE Mercado hit back at two of the national junior tennis circuit’s top guns and pulled off a sweep of the girls’ 16- and 18-and-under crowns in the PPS Olivarez Group I tournament at the Paranaque Tennis Club and Olivarez Sports Center’s courts over the weekend.

While Kendrick Bona completed back-to-back two title feats in the boys’ side of the event following a dominant campaign in Biñan, Laguna two weeks ago, Mercado rebounded from semifinal defeats to Sandra Bautista with a 6-2, 7-6(3) reversal over top seed and doubles partner Jana Diaz in the 16-U final.

The Quezon City ace sustained

her top form and good condition as she crushed Bautista, 6-2, 6-2, to claim the 18-U trophy and split MVP honors with Bona in the week-long tournament presented by Dunlop and sponsored by Mayor Eric Olivarez.

The Bacoor, C0avite-based Diaz held off Bautista from Imus, Cavite, 6-4, 6-7(8), 10-4, in the 16-U semis but the latter scored a 6-1, 5-2(ret,) win over the former in the 18-U Last 4 phase of the event which served as part of the nationwide circuit put up by Palawan Pawnshop president/ CEO Bobby Castro. Meanwhile, Bona struggled against Tristan Licayan in the 16-U

finals but prevailed in the decider, 4-6, 7-5, 10-7, although the Puerto Princesa find cruised to a 6-2, 6-0 victory over Daniel Rutines to pocket the 18-U diadem.

Rutines shocked top seed Vicne Serna, 7-5, 6-7(5), 10-6, in the 18-U semis of the event which drew a record 304-player draw following a huge 272-entry cast in the Biñan leg of the circuit.

Other winners were Licayan from Gen. Trias, Cavite and Maristella Torrecampo from Los Baños (14-U), Anthony Castigador from Iloilo and Torrecampo (12-U), and Sherwin Go-mos from Zamboanga del Norte.

CEBU Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. champion University of San Jose Recoletos blanked La SalleDasma, 25-20, 25-18, 25-18, for an early leeway in Pool B in the 2023 Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals in style Saturday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre. Louneth Abangan rifled in 16 points on 14 hits and two aces as the Lady Jaguars finished off their counterparts in only one hour and 22 minutes for a resounding introduction in the elite tourney.

“It’s a great opportunity for us. Sabi ko sa mga players, ‘yung mga nakikita nyo sa TV ay makakalaro nyo dito. We just have to stay focused and play our game,” said coach Roldan Potot. No player finished in double figures for La Salle-Dasma with Shaira Pamero having only five points.

Later, Adamson ushered in a new era under coach JP Yude with a 25-17, 2511, 25-17 win over Jose Maria College Foundation Inc. (JMCF) from Davao for a 1-0 card in Pool C.

Rookie Red Bascon dropped 11 while Sharya Nicole Ancheta and Maria Rochelle Lalongisip had nine apiece as the Lady Falcons scored the straight-set win in 66 minutes.

“It’s a great start sa mga bata. Nakakuha sila ng kumpyansa na preparations namin for our next game. Marami pa kaming trabaho. We’ll work on it. We need to start strong and finish strong,” said Yude, who replaced former mentor Jerry Yee.

Cebu champ turns back La Salle-Dasma; Adamson wins RnR Manila gets backing of world’s race bodies

THE World Athletics and the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races have officially certified and measured the ASICS Rock ‘n’ Roll Manila presented by AIA Vitality, further boosting the event’s standing on the world stage when it is held Nov. 26 at the Rizal Park.

The certification serves as a great news for those taking part in the highly popular night racing with the 5km, 10km, half-marathon (21km) and marathon (42km) courses all meeting the requirements of a well-organized, safe and accurately measured course, meaning that race times are valid and meets international standards for qualifying and setting record.

“We’re thrilled to have had the courses for this year’s ASICS Rock ‘n’ Roll Manila presented by AIA Vitality officially measured and certified by AIMS,” said Princess Galura, regional director of the organizing The IRONMAN Group Philippines.

“This move has lifted the standing of the event on the world stage and we can’t wait to have thousands of runners take to the streets of Manila after midnight of Nov. 26 in a night to remember.”

On top of raising the profile of Rock ‘n’ Roll Manila internationally, the move to have the courses officially measured by the home of world running means that those who want to take their running to the next level and head to one of the world marathon majors will be able to use their finishing time from Manila to potentially qualifying to race across the world, according to Galura.

These include the Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago and New York marathons.

For details and listup, visit www. runrocknroll.com/manila.

The RnR Manila that combines running, music and community promises to be bigger and better than its past staging in scope and in terms of participation and organization. It will dot Manila’s heritage sites with booming live music and runners in colorful costumes.

Sponsored by top sporting apparel ASICS, the world’s largest running series is held annually in various countries around the world. It features a variety of activities – from training runs with seasoned marathoners and ASICS coaches, medals and routes showcase, to the search for RNR Entertainers contest. Not only will it inspire participants to keep up with their training prep, but it will also build a community that will bring the fun to the run.

PNVF president Ramon “Tats” Suzara (second from left) talks with City of Santa Rosa Mayor Arlene Arcillas on Friday at the City of Santa Rosa Multi-Purpose Complex. With them are PNVF secretary-general Don Caringal and venue manager for the SEA V.League Girlie Dealino.

Members of the Adamson Lady Falcons are shown prior to their game in the Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals.

Bronny James AFP

Chloe Mercado (right) is shown with Kendrick Bona (center) and Olivarez Sports Center manager Jade Germano.

From left: 'Magic Hurts' stars Mutya Orquia, Beaver

Former child star headlines new romcom with rising showbiz newbie

By Nickie Wang

FORMER child star Mutya Orquia and showbiz newcomer Beaver Magtalas are currently in Baguio for the production of Magic Hurts, a romantic comedy aimed at young audiences

In the film, Mutya plays the character of a young girl who deeply loves her parents despite the difficulties in their relationship. Mutya shared her thoughts on what viewers can anticipate from the film, expressing that it may evoke feelings of compassion, annoyance, or amusement, as they are unsure how her character will be received by the audience.

“We're not yet sure how my character will be accepted by moviegoers.

I just want to thank Direk Gabby for

munication and being receptive to the actors' suggestions, resulting in a light and enjoyable shooting experience.

“I'm really super excited to film my first movie. I felt super excited after I read the script and during our meeting with Direk Gabby. He communicated with us. He was very open to the suggestions of the artists. That's why I know our shoot will be smooth and light,” the teen star added.

Beaver, on the other hand, talked about the natural connection he shares with Mutya as friends, believing that it will help them convincingly portray their characters in the film.

"I feel that when it comes to our connection, there are still many things we need to improve on. However, in some cases, it's pretty natural

because we're very close friends. So hopefully, we can show that to the people watching,” Beaver shared.

Mutya echoed Beaver's sentiments, emphasizing that their existing close friendship will aid them during the scenes and promotional activities. Their authentic bond as friends will undoubtedly be evident to the audience, as their fans are well aware of their shared experiences.

Completing the cast are Angelica Jones, Dennis Padilla, Claudine Barretto, Arianna Barretto, Archie Adamos, Aileen Papin, Blumark Roces, Pantene Palanca, Cassie Kim, Dennah Bautista, Ricardo Cepeda, and Julian Roxas Magic Hurts is scheduled for a forthcoming premiere in cinemas and on streaming platforms.

giving me that role," she said expressing her gratitude to film director Gabby Ramos for entrusting her with the role.

Excited about her first movie project, Mutya revealed her enthusiasm after reading the script and meeting with Direk Gabby. It's also her first time working with Beaver and Maxine Trinidad in a movie.

Mutya conveyed her delight in collaborating with the director, praising Gabby for maintaining open com-

A throwback kind of romance

THE lead star stature of Cristine Reyes and Marco Gumabao is in full bloom in Minsan Pa Nating Hagkan Ang Nakaraan, which currently airs on TV 5.

The alluring Reyes gives life to the character of Helen, a role that the movie queen labeled as the Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos portrayed in the original motion picture version. The hunky Gumabao steps in the shoes of Rod, the name of the character assigned to the drama king Christopher de Leon

'We Are Family' will end its 17-year run on Hong Kong's public broadcaster on Sunday

Hong Kong public broadcaster cancels LGBTQ radio show

A radio show promoting LGBTQ equality will end its 17-year run at Hong Kong's public broadcaster on Sunday, with station management citing "changes in the program" as the reason for cancellation.

The axing of We Are Family comes after Beijing crushed Hong Kong's democracy movement and imposed a sweeping national security law in 2020, which critics say has fractured civil society and silenced dissent.

Program co-host Brian Leung said he was "mentally prepared" for the show to be dropped at the government-funded Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK), but was not given a satisfactory explanation when meeting with station management earlier this month.

"For a traditional platform like RTHK, this program was more or less walking a tightrope," Leung told AFP in an interview hours before the final show.

Featuring a mix of chitchat, news, and guest interviews, the show was a rare platform that advocated gay rights in the Chinese city and its 2006 debut broke the mold at the public broadcaster.

Partly inspired by the success of Oscarwinning film Brokeback Mountain, the show in its early days enjoyed editorial freedom "to an extent I found almost hard to believe," Leung recalled. The show, which aired for two hours every

Sunday at midnight, made use of the broadcaster's wide reach to present LGBTQ content as "something fun, light-hearted and interesting", Leung said.

An episode about the high school bullying of LGBTQ teens won a Human Rights Press Award in 2010, while other episodes sparked discussion on topics such as drag culture and discrimination faced by transgender people.

“Being able to host this sort of program at a public broadcaster is itself a statement. If we can talk about homosexuality, sexual orientation on RTHK every week, that means... it's not taboo,” Leung said.

RTHK told AFP that it reviews its programming strategies from time to time and does not comment on internal editorial matters.

Hong Kong has seen a steady rise in support for same-sex marriage, especially among younger residents. A survey this year found that 60 percent of Hong Kongers supported same-sex marriage, compared to just 38 percent a decade ago.

But the city's Beijing-approved leadership has shown little appetite for passing laws that advance LGBTQ equality.

Most recently, Hong Kong's top court is processing a challenge against the city's restrictive marriage laws brought by activist Jimmy Sham, who is among a group of opposition figures on trial for subversion. AFP

In the television series adaptation, Helen and Rod start as high school academic rivals but eventually become young sweethearts. They share a dream of creating their own architectural and engineering firm, building their dream house, and living happily ever after together.

Both Reyes and Marco bring emotional truth and commitment to the portrayals of their respective characters. We see the development of Helen and Rod, they are convincing as high school rivals turned sweethearts, totally plausible as college lovers carrying their set of domestic problems, and relatable as they cling and hold on to a long-distance love affair that ended because of Gumabao’s Rod resolve that the relationship no longers works. The separation devastates Cristine’s Helen.

perfor-

as National Artist for Film) directed movie, one of the Philippines’s national treasures, the late, great Eddie Garcia, was Santos’s aging and affluent husband. Montano gives his Cenon authority, gravitas with old-school refinement and sensibilities. The fact that Cesar seasons handsomely is a plus factor.

somely is a plus factor. and relation ship forced.

How Cenon became a part of the lives of Helen at Rod is the most novel part of the TV series. The manner and heightening of the bond, friendship, and eventually relationship between Helen and Rod is not forced. There is no denying that audiences will be curious about the show and make it a viewing habit because the weaving and the unfolding of the narrative is top-notch, the cinematography and overall look of the TV drama is glossy and sleek, a commendable supporting cast and the truthful fashion and emotional integrity that Cristine, Marco and Cesar immersed and invested to Helen, Rod, and Cenon make them a trio of genuine people Minsan Pa Nating Hagkan Ang Nakaraan is a blast from the past and a throwback kind of love that spells wonderful and worth watching TV adaptation. The series airs Monday to Friday on TV 5, with encore telecasts every day at 8:00 p.m. on Sari Sari Channel, available on CIGNAL TV. SatLite Channel 3 and Cignal Play.

Reyes delivers a knock-out and intelligent perfor mance because one sees and feels the development and growth of her character. Her quiet moments and dra matic highlights show the emotional investment and honesty she gives to Helen.

mance because one sees and feels the development and dra-

Some of her best scenes include the father and daughter segments, the heartfelt dedication to make the LDR work, and the desolation of the heart when a tragedy happens because of a wrong choice and decision. To all that come about in the life of Helen, Cristine makes it all authentic.

The camera loves Gumabao in this TV series, the way it captures his handsomeness is perfect. One can count his many fan service moments. What is remarkable about Marco’s portrayal of Rod, he infuses it with a dose of hopeless romantic, and together we can make it happen and work vibes, and there is no faking in this presentation of the conflicts and turmoil that an ambitious dreamer like Rod encounters.

The reel and real sweethearts share a passionate and tastefully done and executed love scene. As they do the blocked and rehearsed tender moment, the love they share is palpable and pulsates and the look of love in their eyes are most evident.

Another major attraction of this TV adaptation is Cesar Montano who acts as Cenon. In the Marilou Diaz Abaya (posthumously declared

‘Ang Huling El Bimbo’ takes final bow after record-breaking run

ALL good things must come to an end, even the well-loved musical masterpiece that struck a chord in the hearts of many Filipinos.

Thunderous standing ovations, cheers, and tears filled the night as Ang Huling El Bimbo (AHEB) performed its final show. The curtain came down on Sunday ending the sweet joyride of the longest-running Filipino musical staged by Newport World Resorts.

“The musical ended on a high note and part of me sees this as a new beginning for a much bigger world of live theater. We are all witnesses of how Ang Huling El Bimbo, a musical performed by Filipino artists, and proudly made by Filipino creatives, can thrive in this generation and beyond. We end this show full of gratitude to everyone who joined us on this joyride,” Full House Theater Company CoArtistic Director Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo said amid the final show celebration with the cast, crew, creatives who helped make the musical phenomenal.

Newport World Resorts President and CEO Kingson Sian thanked audiences for their support. This year’s run cemented its icon status in the landscape of Philippine theater, emerging as the most-watched musical to date.

In all its incarnations, the award-winning Newport Performing Arts Theater (NPAT) served as the venue, where audiences witnessed a grand showcase of Filipino spectacle.

“Thank you so much for coming out today and supporting our original Filipino musical. Tonight is our last show and we have done 175 shows since 2018. Reaching a fourth run, over 240,000 people have watched this show live right here in this theater. During the pandemic, another 7 million watched it in their homes around the world, raising 12 million pesos for COVID relief,” Sian says.

Making this farewell more triumphant was the appreciation given by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) during the exclusive celebration of Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino across the property. NPAT received a plaque of appreciation for being a partner of the NCCA in promoting original Filipino music and artists.

With the finale leaving a hole in the hearts of many, one can only wonder what comes next for the grand NPAT stage. During curtain call, in an unexpected turn of events, the cast sang a snippet of the heart-tugging love song

“Harana” made popular by one of the coun-

try’s most cherished rock bands. The giant screen behind flashed an animation of a guitar, a slice of pizza, two bottles, and a bird, with the words “Abangan 2024”. All these hinting audiences about the new musical coming up next year. As AHEB bids its farewell after a long run, another chapter opens for live theater, and the anticipation for a new original Filipino masterpiece begins again.

During its

Magtalas, and Maxine Trinidad

'Magic Hurts' is helmed by film director Gabby Ramos

Real-life couple Marco Gumabao (left) and Christine Reyes (middle) works in a new project, 'Minsan Pa Nating Hagkan Ang Nakaraan' with Cesar Montano (right)

final show, 'Ang Huling El Bimbo' cast surprised fans singing Parokya ni Edgar's 'Harana' hinting for a new musical show

'Ang Huling El Bimbo' lead stars (from left) Topper Fabregas (Anthony), Paw Castillo (Emman), Gab Pangilinan (Joy), and Anthony Rosaldo (Hector)

LIFE

Book on plant-based diet launched at SM Supermalls’ Nutrition Month event

CULMINATING SM Supermalls’ activity for this year’s Nutrition Month, as mounted by the SuperMoms Club, was the launch of Juana ManahanYupangco’s new book, Juana’s Table Juana recently secured her master’s degree in Food Security and Nutrition from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland and gave an enlightening talk on these subjects to the SuperMoms who gathered at the Atrium of SM Megamall to attend the afternoon event.

Joining Juana in the course of the afternoon were celebrity SuperMom Dimples Romana and SuperMOMpreneur Patti Grandidge-Herrera

The welcome remarks was rendered by SM Supermalls Vice President for Marketing Grace Magno, and hers was a resounding affirmation of just how important SM Supermalls takes this message for better nutrition for the Filipino family.

In her speech, Magno spoke of how SM Supermalls, through initiatives such as the SM Sunday Market held at several malls, are making fresh local produce and vegetables readily available to the public, and at prices that are essentially farmgate and more afford-

Heavenly flavors of the Orient

WHEN people talk about excellent Chinese food, Conrad Manila’s China Blue, more often than not, dominates the conversation. Small wonder, because world-renowned celebrity chef Jereme Leung sees to it that every patron in the restaurant indulges in an exquisite epicurean adventure that only he can easily whip up

So, when I heard that this premiere restaurant was staging a limited engagement Legendary Chef Series featuring the culinary masterpieces of Chef Leung, I dropped all the other chores and headed there.

A culinary visionary, Chef Jereme presented an extraordinary set menu meticulously curated to captivate everyone’s discerning palates. The symphony of flavors combined Cantonese kitchen traditions and gastronomic innovation, something he has mastered since age 13 when he began his kitchen career in Hong Kong. The epicurean spectacle began with an enticing appetizer of marinated lobster accentuated with coriander lime jelly dressing and crispy bean curd sheet, accompanied by deep-fried kataifi seafood and otak-otak (fish cake) with lemongrass. The delectable journey continued with soup made of rich and flavorful double-boiled merry fruit peach gum, with sea cucumber, black chicken dumpling, and dry moon clam Matsutake mushroom.

The flavorful kitchen repertoire continued on to the succulent flavor of steamed sea garoupa embellished with sun-dried ginger and red chili black bean paste. This exquisite dish was served together with the tenderness of slow-cooked (2.5 hours) beef short rib, coated in luscious green pepper barbecue sauce. As in all Chinese gastronomic spread, rice was served last and this was black sesame fried rice with dry scallop seafood and spring onion egg white pearl.

To cap this heavenly meal, Chef Leung served us a harmonious blend of Hawthorn ice cream, Chinese sweet vinegar caramel, and the delightful traditional onion pancake, creating a perfect end to a luncheon feast of heavenly Oriental flavors.

Conrad Manila General Manager Fabio

Berto was delighted to see guests enjoying Chef Leung’s gastronomic creations which further highlighted the reputation of China Blue as the foodies’ first pick when it comes to exceptional Chinese cuisine.

Something to look forward to is the hotel’s next feature in its Legendary Chefs Series They will soon have Chef Valerio Pierantonelli from Basilico, Conrad Singapore Orchard’s highly sought-after Italian restaurant. He is expected to bring to Manila’s gourmets the soulful flavors of Italy. He will be at China Blue from August 7 to 15 and, as early as now, reservations have already been piling up.

For seat reservations, contact +632 8833 9999 or +63 917 650 3591 or email them at MNLMB.FB@conradhotels.com

For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@ gmail.com

able. This is in support of the farming community, who are still picking up the pieces from the health crisis that affected us all. Plus, it ties in with the programs of SM Foundation in urban farming, and creating modules that improve the education and capabilities of those who take up farming and food production.

During Juana’s talk, she made mention of how Filipino women are now leaving the men behind in cases of obesity, and that the link between bad nutrition and the poor educational attainment of our children is an alarming trend. These are two statistics that bear weighty consideration given that the opportunities to reverse these trends are easily within reach, and would actually help the plight of our local farmers.

A shift to a more plant-based diet is what Juana is advocating, and it’s important to note that when Juana talks of vegetables, she doesn’t highlight kale, quinoa, or popular, imported vegetables. She espouses favoring locally grown veggies as they’re fresher, more nutritious, accessible, plus ideally priced. Her cookbooks, Mesa ni Misis,

and now, Juana’s Table, showcase recipes that utilize these local vegetables, without sacrificing flavor, taste, and variety.

Along with Dimples and Patti, Juana led a food preparation demo that had them creating ‘green’ versions of the popular Korean seaweed rice rolls, Gimbap (Kimbap). There are recipes that have one creating a Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce with Monggo Beans, and that’s just a sampling of how Juana creatively brings vegetables into the picture, to transform familiar ‘comfort food’ recipes into ones that are now plant-based.

The participation of SM Markets, SM Store, ABS-CBN Publishing, Fully Booked, Viu, Nutri-Asia, UnMeat, Téviant, Skin Poem, Designer Blooms, and Blims Furniture meant a host of wonderful prizes and giveaways were brought home by the lucky SuperMoms who had trooped to SM Megamall that afternoon.

To know more about the SuperMoms Club, join the Facebook community for moms, by moms via www. facebook.com/groups/SMSuperMomsClub

A delightful culinary journey with Thai superstars

EMBARK on a culinary journey with the upcoming HBO Asia Originals series, MarkKim + Chef, premiering on August 18 on HBO and HBO GO.

Starring the soon-to-bemarried Thai television icons, Mark Prin Suparat and Kimberley Anne Woltemas, the show promises to take viewers on a mouthwatering adventure. This series showcases the couple’s culinary escapades over ten fun-filled episodes featuring guest appearances by their family and friends including, Margie (Rasri Balenciaga Chirathivat) and Pat (Napapa Tantrakul).

Viewers get to witness the transformation of Mark and Kim’s culinary skills as they learn to prepare and cook a variety of recipes, which include Royal Thai cuisine with Chef Pom (M.L. Kwantip Devakula), fine dining with Chef Ian (Pongtawat Chalermkittichai), and sweet treats with Chef Penny (Pennee Jirayuwatana).

Mark and Kim’s introduction to gourmet cooking will also feature other prominent chefs, including, Chef Black (Phanuphon Bulsuwan), who will guide them through Thai and German fusion cuisine, Chef Randy (Chaichat Noprapa), who will assist them

in preparing a Japanese “Homakase” meal, Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, owner of the renowned restaurant Blue Elephant, Chef Tam (Chudaree Debhakam), who helps Kim with her struggle with making pasta from scratch, Chef Pam (Pichaya Soontornyanakij) who guides Mark in filleting a whole salmon, Chef Pom (Thanarak Chuto), who inspires the couple with his 40 years of experience in Chinese cuisine, and in the finale, Chef Willment, the Executive Director of the World Association of Chefs’ Societies in Asia.

MarkKim + Chef is not just about food, it is a celebration of love, culture, and the joy of shared experiences when preparing a homecooked meal. Each episode offers a unique glimpse into the couple’s evolving relationship as they navigate the kitchen together, overcoming challenges, and creating lasting memories.

Directed by Chawalit Apithamniti, executive produced by Dean Johnson and Joe Evans and produced by John Thanadul Lam, Ratchakit Hatanee, Nannapat Pitaktrairong, and Kannika Paiboon from IFA Media, MarkKim + Chef is based on the format Selena + Chef, licensed by Warner Bros. International Television Production.

Conrad Manila GM Fabio Bert expresses his gratitude over the heaps of praises from everyone who partook in Chef

Food security and nutrition expert Juana Manahan-Yupangco launches her new book, ‘Juana’s Table’, featuring recipes using native Filipino vegetables

Steamed sea garoupa with sun-dried ginger and red chili black bean paste

Marinated lobster with coriander lime jelly dressing and crispy bean curd sheet

Slow-cooked beef short rib in green pepper barbecue sauce

Chef Jereme Leung meticulously prepares the appetizers

Newly-engaged Thai couple Mark Prin Suparat (left) and Kimberley Anne Woltemas (right)

Juana (middle) with Dimples Romana (left) and Patty Grandidge-Herrera (right) are demonstrating how to prepare Korean seaweed rice rolls, Gimbap (Kimbap)

From left: Patty Grandidge-Herrera, Juana ManahanYupangco, and Dimples Romana during the launching of ‘Juana’s Table’