Manila Standard - 2023 August 9 - Wednesday

By Othel V. Campos and Maricel Cruz

ABOUT 13 manufacturers of basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPCs) have submitted petitions for price increases on 43 items – the most numerous so far since the start of the year – that cover canned sardines, canned meat, coffee, instant noodles, three variants of milk and toilet soaps, among others.

“We found out that there are more products that are adjusting their prices –

that will be 43 out of 217 stock keeping units SKUs under the Suggested Retail Price Bulletin (SRP) of the DTI,” Trade Undersecretary for Consumer Protection Group Ruth Castelo said. Price petitions for food products range from P0.10 to P7.27, or an increase of about one to 5 percent. Petitions to increase the price of nonfood items, on the other hand, range from six to 20 percent or about P1.50 to P9.75 per SKU.

‘BRP Sierra Madre stays put’

PH

junks China demand to remove ship from Ayungin Shoal

By Rey E. Requejo, Vince Lopez

and

Charles Dantes

THE Philippines on Tuesday said it will not accede to China’s demand that it remove the BRP Sierra Madre from the Ayungin Shoal and denied Beijing’s claims that it promised to do so.

In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the deployment of a permanent station in Ayungin Shoal was actually a response to China’s illegal occupation of Panganiban Reef in 1995.

The National Security Council also denied China’s claims.

“The PH has not and will never enter into any agreement abandoning its

To reach troops in WPS, gov’t mulls sending bigger boats on supply runs

By Vince Lopez and Rey E. Requejo

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Tuesday said it will bolster its presence near Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea after the Chinese Coast Guard fired water cannons at boats car-

rying food, water and fuel, and other supplies to Filipino troops stationed there. National Task Force on West Philippine Sea spokesperson PCG Commodore Jay Tarriela said they would consider sending more vessels to escort resupply missions.

Speaker: P282b for PH defense in 2024 budget

By Maricel V. Cruz

Ramos-Araneta

and Macon

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Tuesday said the House of Representatives supports the increased spending for the defense sector under the proposed P5.768-trillion 2024 national budget to bolster the military’s capability to protect the country’s territorial integrity. He noted that under the proposed 2024 budget, the allocation for the defense sector is P282.7 billion, or 21.6 percent more compared to the P203.4billion allocation under the 2023 budget.

On Monday Romualdez backed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s decision to consult military leaders

By Joyce Pangco Pañares and Macon Ramos-Araneta

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines is studying the concerns raised over an exchange program that sends Filipino military officers to China – including whether to discontinue it – amid Beijing’s continued incursions in the West Philippine Sea.

Aguilar told Manila Standard in a phone interview.

“That (whether to discontinue the program) is part of the (study) requirements given to another staff,” he added.

Senator Jinggoy Estrada, chairman of the Senate Defense Committee, said he has asked the AFP to submit a report on the military exchange program that is paid for in full by the Chinese government.

Senator Francis Tolentino described the military exchange program as “very alarming” while Senator Raffy Tulfo said it was a “slap in the face of Filipinos” amid China’s aggressive acts.

Tulfo said the exchange program gives China an opportunity to “infiltrate” the AFP hierarchy.

“Stop the government program sending AFP officials to China for studies

AFP reviewing exchange program that trains senior officers in Beijing Tulfo measure asks House to probe status of reclamation in Manila Bay

By Maricel V. Cruz

REP. Erwin Tulfo of the ACT-CIS party-list group on Tuesday sought a congressional inquiry in aid of legislation into the status of the Manila Bay reclamation projects, citing “several concerns on national security.”

Tulfo, in filing House Resolution 1171, said he shared the sentiment of Speaker Martin Romualdez, who also wants to ensure that national security, transparency, environmental sustainability, and the best interest of the public are upheld.

“I was informed by the Speaker that he was concerned after hearing several news reports regarding national security issues in the reclamation area as he

remained committed to safeguarding our nation’s security and upholding our territorial integrity and fostering peaceful cooperation in the region,” Tulfo said in a statement.

Tulfo filed the resolution along with fellow ACT-CIS party-list solons Edvic Yap and Jocelyn Tulfo.

The three legislators noted in the resolution that the ongoing reclamation activities in the Manila Bay area “have raised concerns among citizens and various stakeholders.”

They said the reclamation projects may pose a danger to the Philippines after the US government recently raised concerns about the Chinese contractor involved in the projects.

BASTION. In these file photos, an Armed Forces supply ship approaches the BRP Sierra Madre, moored at Ayungin Shoal since 1999. The Philippines maintains a small Navy presence there—with troops eager to

Sandigan clears Marcos family anew

By Maricel V. Cruz

MEMBERS of the immediate family of the late President Ferdinand Marcos and his alleged cronies won another round in the battery of cases filed against them by previous administrations.

This as the Sandiganbayan’s second division upheld its decision to dismiss Civil Case 0014 involving high-value properties such as hotels, resorts, and other corporations. In the resolution of the court promulgated on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, the motion for reconsideration filed by the government through the Solicitor General was denied for lack of merit.

The antigraft court noted that the So -

Zubiri: Boycott Chinese goods like Vietnam did

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

AS A sign of protest to China’s persistent bullying of the Philippine Coast Guard, Navy, and local fishermen, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri called for a boycott of Chinese goods and all Chinese companies.

Earlier, Zubiri sponsored a Senate Resolution condemning Chinese incursions on Philippine territory.

In an interview over Radyo 630, Zubiri said like Vietnam, “we should start looking for other trading partners instead of relying on China.” “We should look for other trading partners where we can grow and improve our country’s economy without being dependent on China,” he said.

“We should not be relying on China for our products,” he further stated.

Zubiri related the Philippines may reopen its free trade agreements with countries like the United States, European Union, Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asian countries.

“So that we can boycott Chinesemade products, boycott Chinese companies entering the Philippines to show our anger towards them in that way,” he added.

From

“We can also consider deploying the 97-meter vessel or the 83-meter vessel for us to have a much bigger boat to support the resupply mission,” he said.

Tarriela also said that the PCG is requesting a higher intelligence fund, which has been pegged at P10 million a year in the last 15 years.

“With the magnitude of the function of the coast guard, not to mention the maritime safety and the maritime environmental protection, it is important for the Philippine Coast Guard to receive a larger intelligence fund to support our operations,” Tarriela said, urging Congress “to add some zeroes in our intelligence funds.”

Beijing claims almost all of the South China Sea by its discredited nine-dash line and has ignored a 2016 international court ruling that its expansive claims have no legal basis.

Ayungin Shoal is about 200 kilometers from the mainland Palawan province and more than 1,000 kilometers from China’s nearest major landmass, Hainan island.

China’s Ambassador Huang Xilian accused the Philippines of repeatedly taking unilateral actions “to undermine the existing status quo” on Ayungin Shoal.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) had summoned Huang on Monday to protest the water cannon incident and the Chinese Coast Guard’s dangerous maneuvers against Filipino vessels in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier said a note verbale was sent to Huang in connection with the water cannon incident.

The PCG vessels were escorting boats chartered by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to deliver food, water, fuel, and other supplies to military troops stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre, which has been beached on Ayungin Shoal.

licitor General did not present any new arguments and evidence to warrant the reversal of the original decision.

“Needless to state, the allegations contained in the motion are mere rehash of the issues already ruled, passed upon, and judiciously resolved by this court,” the resolution written by Associate Justice Arthur Malabaguio said. Division Chairman Justice Oscar Herrera, Jr. and Associate Justice Edgardo Caldona,

DoF

revamping

By Julito Rada

THE amended implementing rules and regulations of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act (CREATE) Law, which will hopefully address some of its inconsistencies, are expected to be announced this week, the Department of Finance said Tuesday.

“We are in the process of amending the IRR so that it would be consist-

‘BRP...

sovereign rights and jurisdiction over Ayungin Shoal,” NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said in a statement.

Manila made the assertion after Beijing insisted that it has sovereignty over Ayungin Shoal, where China Coast Guard vessels fired water cannons at boats resupplying the Filipino Marines on the BRP Sierra Madre.

Claiming the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) disregarded its warning and intruded into the waters it is “illegally claiming,” China said the Philippines must tow away its vessel there as it supposedly promised in 1999.

“Ren’ai Jiao has always been part of China’s Nansha Qundao. The historical context of the issue of Ren’ai Jiao is very clear. In 1999, the Philippines sent a military vessel and deliberately ran it aground at Ren’ai Jiao, attempting to change the status quo of Ren’ai Jiao illegally,” China’s Foreign Ministry said.

China also accused the Philippines of repeatedly taking unilateral actions to undermine the existing management status quo on the Second Thomas Shoal, the international name of Ayungin Shoal in the South China Sea.

But the DFA said the deployment of a Philippine military station in its own

concurred. Civil Case 0014 was one of the forfeiture cases filed in 1987, during the administration of then-President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino involving assets and properties owned by the former President and First Lady.

The impleaded corporations include Philippine Village Hotel, Puerto Azul Beach and Country Club, Ternate Development Corporation, Fantasia Filipina Resorts, Inc. Ocean Villas Condominium Corporation, and Silahis International Hotel, which belongs to the Sulo group owned by the Enriquez family.

In 2009, the Presidential Commission on Good Government estimated the subject properties in Civil Case No.

0014 at P581 million.

With the death of the former President, he was substituted in the case by heirs, including President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., Sen. Imee Marcos, and Irene Marcos-Araneta.

In junking the appeal, the antigraft court said that the testimony of the records custodian of the Presidental Commission on Good Government, Maria Lourdes Magno, “fell within the category of hearsay evidence.”

“With the foregoing considerations, it follows that the best evidence rule applies in this case and, therefore, plaintiff’s (PCGG’s) sole witness Magno is not competent to testify as to the contents and existence of the said documentary evidence,” the court said.

‘inconsistencies’ in tax law’s rules

ent with the interpretation [mentioned by the chairman], wherein the 10-year sunset provision should be followed,” Finance Assistant Secretary Karlo Adriano told a House of Representatives tax panel.

Lawmakers in the Lower House earlier noted inconsistencies in the CREATE Law’s IRR.

Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Salceda, who heads the House Ways and

area of jurisdiction is an inherent right of the Philippines and does not violate any laws.

“Moreover, the Philippine station on Ayungin Shoal was deployed in 1999, years ahead of the conclusion in 2002 of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), and is therefore not a violation of the DOC,” it added.

The Philippines also maintained that the Ayungin Shoal, “as explicitly stated in the Award of the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration, is a low-tide elevation that is not subject to sovereignty claims or appropriation,” so China could not justify its attack on the basis of protecting its sovereignty.

The DFA lamented that China “impeded the Philippines’ legitimate and regular activities in its own exclusive economic zone.”

Besides, the DFA said China also violated relevant provisions of 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) the Award on the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration the 1972 Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLGRES), and the 2002 ASEANChina Declaration on the Conduct of Parties “The 2016 Arbitral Award is based on UNCLOS and affirms UNCLOS. It is final, legal, and binding. China as a

BuCor to open 2nd septic tank in Bilibid probe

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

ONE more septic tank needs to be opened and checked to determine if there is indeed a mass grave inside the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) after the first septic tank yielded only a bone from a chicken leg.

This was suggested by Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) chief Gerald Catapang during the hearing inside the NBP’s maximum security compound presided by Sen. Francis Tolentino, chairperson of the Senate Justice committee.

A surprised Tolentino blurted out, “Ha, chicken leg?” on hearing the testimony of NBI Medico-Legal Division member Dr. Annalyne Dadiz.

The ship manned by more than a dozen Marines and sailors has become a symbol of Philippine sovereignty in the offshore territory.

“We do not readily approve their petitions. We still have to verify the data manufacturers provide us. Not only do we verify the information but we also assess the implication of the increases to the market and consumers,” Castelo said.

Most manufacturers have complained of higher costs of raw materials, particularly those sourced from overseas, Castelo said.

She said the DTI acknowledges that imported raw materials like skimmed milk for milk products, imported soft flour for noodles, mechanically deboned meat (MDM) for canned meat

products, and iodine and potassium for iodized salt have been on the upswing in the international market. She said the CPG is still assessing the merits of the petitions and that the February 2023 SRP Bulletin will remain in place until another is issued by the DTI. Meanwhile, Castelo urged consumers to buy school supplies from established suppliers to ensure their quality.

Castelo said bookstores and the more formal sellers of school supplies are most reliable in enforcing the “Gabay sa Pamimili ng School Supplies” released by the DTI two weeks ago in anticipation of the school opening this month.

“We just want consumers to be guided accordingly to their product choic-

Means Committee, particularly cited the continued availment of registered business enterprises for a period of 10 years the tax incentives given before the law took effect.

Salceda said the IRR ignored this transitory provision. He even said this could be one of the reasons why the country failed to attract more foreign direct investments in the past several years.

state party to UNCLOS is well aware of that and we call on China to faithfully adhere to its obligations and commitments as a state party to UNCLOS,” DFA said.

Beijing suggested settling its dispute with Manila through dialogue, but the Philippines had already expressed frustration that various diplomatic initiatives, including note verbales and direct communication mechanisms, were not working.

Malaya, meanwhile, denied China’s claims that the Philippines vowed to remove its grounded warship in Ayungin Shoal.

In an interview with ANC, Malaya said that the Philippines did not make any commitment to China to remove the BRP Sierra Madre.

“We have no idea what they are talking about. I have talked to our colleagues from the Department of Foreign Affairs, even the ones from the Department of National Defense from the previous administrations.

There was no commitment, whatsoever, as far as the Philippines is concerned and there is no record of any such commitment,” said Malaya.

“There is no record of a meeting or an official record that the Philippines, in the past, committed to China that it will tow away the BRP Sierra Madre,” he said.

The Philippines is using the grounded warship as a makeshift post to safeguard the country’s waters.

es,” she said.

For his part, AGRI party-list Rep. Wilbert Lee urged the government to focus on interventions to curb food inflation after a survey revealed that more Filipino families had experienced involuntary hunger in the past three months.

The latest Social Weather Stations survey showed 10.4 percent of Filipino families experienced involuntary hunger – up from the previous 9.8 percent in March.

SWS defines involuntary hunger as being hungry and not having anything to eat.

SWS said the 10.4 percent hunger rate in June 2023 was the sum of 2.1 percent who experienced severe hunger and 8.3 percent who experienced moderate hunger.

According to Dadiz, they conducted the process of forensic identification and through this process, they made use of elimination and comparison and they concluded that the bone was not human.

“We have one piece of bone and this is not of human origin. In all likelihood, through the process of comparison, it is consistent with chicken leg bone,” she said.

“I think the photo, the one that is shown in the media, the one that you have, I think it is just zoomed out. But if you try to compare it with the actual size of a chicken leg bone, it is equal, consistent to a chicken leg bone,” she explained.

Dadiz said they also retrieved from the septic tank a piece of underwear and a razor, but they could not tell to whom it belonged.

She said the septic tank was totally emptied.

Another forensic team from the University of the Philippines is expected to release its examination findings on the bone within the week.

Speaker:...

From A1

on the illegal use of water cannons by Chinese ships on Philippine Coast Guard and civilian vessels resupplying a platoon of Filipino soldiers stationed in Ayungin Shoal off Palawan.

Meanwhile, Senator Imee Marcos underscored the urgency for the Department of Foreign Affairs to demand an explanation from their Chinese counterparts for their “patently illegal” actions against the Filipino boats.

“We must also see to it that our Coast Guard becomes better equipped but relies less on foreign countries that have their own national interests to pursue,” the senator, the President’s sister, said.

Romualdez issued the statement while in Jakarta, Indonesia as head of the Philippine delegation to the 44th AIPA (ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly) General Assembly.

“Our commitment to safeguarding our territorial integrity and ensuring the safety of our citizens remains unwavering. As a nation, we must take proactive measures to enhance our defense capabilities and ensure that we have the necessary resources to effectively protect our sovereign rights,” Romualdez said.

He noted that under the proposed 2024 budget, the allocation for the defense sector is P282.7 billion, or 21.6 percent more compared to the P203.4 billion allocation under the 2023 budget.

“I have read in several news reports that one of the companies involved in the reclamation project in Manila Bay right now is a construction firm from mainland China, the China Construc-

tion Company (CCC). And this same construction company, the news reports added, was also involved in the construction of an airbase and naval base of China in the West Philippine Sea,” Tulfo said.

Earlier, Senator Cynthia Villar also warned that six- to eight-meter floods in Las Piñas City and other nearby areas could

likely happen if the ongoing reclamation in Manila Bay reaches her hometown.

Villar, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on the Environment and natural resources, has been strongly objecting to any reclamation project at Manila Bay.

“I’m taking them [to the Supreme Court]. If they don’t revise [their plan],

we have no choice. Will I allow my hometown to be submerged in a six-foot flood?” she said.

“If they continue with the reclamation in our part of Manila Bay, there will be no outlet for our four rivers. It was predicted there will be six to eight meters of flooding. Six meters is [equivalent to a] three-story building,” Villar added.

and training,” Tulfo said during Monday’s hearing on proposed amendments to the decades-old National Defense Act.

“So, they have an allowance from the Chinese government? It must have an allowance – like for billeting, lodging, accommodation,” Tolentino said.

“You will receive a patch if you grad-

uate, and you must learn and sing the national anthem of the People’s Republic of China. Alarming indeed... With the tensions in the West Philippine Sea, I don’t think it’s good to send our officers there,” he added.

Defense Senior Undersecretary Irineo Espino said only officers with the rank of lieutenant colonel or higher apply for the yearlong training in China.

The Philippines on Monday summoned Beijing’s envoy to protest the use of water cannons and dangerous

maneuvers against Philippine vessels in the West Philippine Sea, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said (see related story on A1 -- Editors).

“Our secretary of Foreign Affairs summoned Ambassador Huang (Xilian) today and gave him a note verbale including pictures (and) video about what happened and we are awaiting their reply,” Mr. Marcos said.

“The position of China, of course, is they say ‘this is ours so we are defending it’ and we, for our part, are saying ‘no, we

own it so we are defending it.’ So that becomes a gray area that we are discussing.”

The incident happened Saturday as the Philippine Coast Guard escorted charter boats carrying food, water, fuel, and other supplies for Filipino soldiers stationed at Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in the Spratly Islands. Beijing claims almost all of the South China Sea, through which trillions of dollars in trade passes annually. It has ignored a 2016 international court ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.

Marcos gov’t eyes P31-b calamity funds, P17.9b earmarked for NDRRM projects

THE Marcos administration has asked Congress to earmark about P31 billion in calamity funds for 2024.

Meanwhile, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has set aside over half-a-trillion pesos under the proposed P5.768-trillion 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP) for programs and projects aimed at addressing the impact of climate change.

Under the 2024 NEP, about P17.949 billion of the proposed calamity fund or the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (NDRRMF) would be allotted for aid, relief and rehabilitation services to communities or areas affected by natural and human-induced calamities.

The remaining P13.051 billion would be used for the repair and reconstruction of permanent structures, including

other capital expenditures for disaster operation and rehabilitation activities.

The proposed NDRRMF is higher by P11 billion than the P20.5 billion appropriated under the 2023 General Appropriations Act.

The allocation of funds is subject to the approval of the President, taking into consideration the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) for local disasters or the appropriate agency for international crises.

In making recommendations, the NDRRMC should consider the donations or grants received by concerned agencies in support of efforts to address calamities.

A separate P7.425 billion worth of Quick Response Fund (QRF) will be appropriated to nine government agencies.

4 Las Piñas judges in POGO raid face raps

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) has directed the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to file appropriate cases against the judges who ordered the release of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) workers who were arrested in Las Pinas City in June for alleged involvement in human trafficking operations.

Meanwhile, the DOJ was also eyeing the filing of criminal charges arising from some 28,000 registered SIM cards seized during a raid on a POGO facility

in Pasay City suspected of complicity in online scams. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla lamented that four of the courts in

By Rio N. Araja

THE Commission on Audit (COA) has flagged the National Housing Authority for a P140.347-million expenditure for its Balik Probinsya Bagong Pag-asa program in 2020-2022 amid the lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In an audit report, the COA cited the deficiencies in the NHA’s utilization of its corporate fund of P105.074 million and its subsidy fund under the housing assistance program for calamity victims of P35.273 million.

“It is important to note that no data was provided regarding whether other expenses were charged to other member agencies of the BP2 council, thus, casting doubt whether these expenditures were properly charged to NHA and recorded in its books of accounts,” the state auditors noted.

At least P82.154 million was used on infrastructure projects, P39.5 million for the maintenance and other operating expenses, P17.134 million for media coverage and other related expense and P1.558 million equipment.

The COA told the NHA management to ensure that expenditures incurred were properly charged against member agencies, and to submit plans on the idle 12 satellite offices, three multipurpose centers and other structures and equipment at the Balik Probinsya depot.

NHA general manager Joeben Tai received a copy of the 2022 audit report last June 30, and sent its letter to the Department of Budget and Management to request certification that a portion of the P1.2-billion special allotment release order (SARO) of P500 million was approved for the program.

Las Pinas City have granted the petitions for habeas corpus by the arrested POGO employees without any condition.

“Four of the courts in Las Piñas have actively granted habeas corpus petitions,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said in a media briefing.

“I want to tell you that I have instructed the Bureau of Immigration to file the necessary cases against the judges who willingly granted this habeas corpus petitions without any colatilla,” he added. According to Remulla, there should have been a colatilla or conditions on the release order saying they can be freed unless detained for other causes.

“That way, they are ignoring the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Immigration, of the Department of Justice, with regard to illegal acts of aliens in the country. So we are filing cases against the judges,” he vowed. He said the courts might have granted the petitions of 600 foreigners. On June 27, authorities implemented a search warrant following alleged human trafficking activities in the compound of Xinchuang. Police reported that 1,534 Filipinos and 1,190 foreigners were rescued in the raid. A lawyer of Xinchuang camp has denied allegations of human trafficking or illegal activities taking place at the

DILG asks LGUs’ help in drive vs. unlawful BSKE campaign materials

THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has directed local government units (LGUs) to assist the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in its crackdown against campaign materials that violate election laws.

DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. issued the directive ahead of the start of the election period for the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) on Aug. 28.

In DILG Memorandum Circular

2023-105, Abalos said the DILG, LGUs, and other government agencies were deputized by the Comelec through its Resolution No. 10924 to assist the poll body in removing and tearing down unlawful election campaign materials.

Abalos also enjoined LGUs to provide the poll body with the necessary equipment for the removal of unlawful election materials; designate LGU personnel who will assist the Comelec in the campaign; issue executive orders

PNP warns against crime pranks on social media

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) has warned vloggers and content creators against making crime pranks and exercise prudence in creating videos uploaded on social media.

PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. issued the warning following the arrest of three suspects identified as Mark San Rafael, Mark Lester San Rafael and Eleazar Steven Fuentes on Aug. 1 upon orders by the Las Piñas Metropolitan Trial Court Branch 124 on charges of alarm and scandal.

“The PNP remains steadfast in upholding the law and ensuring that individuals are held accountable for their deeds. Pranks that induce panic and disrupt public order cannot be taken lightly. We commend our personnel for their swift action in this instance,” Acorda said in a statement.

Acorda said the PNP’s decisive action in the case underscored its un-

wavering commitment to preserve public safety and order in the digital age.

The case stemmed from a kidnapping prank on April 6 staged by the suspects behind the page “Tukomi Blog” which triggered widespread public outrage.

The video depicted a sophisticated fake kidnapping episode that ostensibly transpired along Saging Street, Phase 2, Brgy. CAA Phase II in Las Piñas City.

A police officer identified as Sgt. Ronnie Conmingo witnessed the incident and drew his handgun on the vloggers, thinking it was a real kidnapping incident.

Conmingo then filed a complaint for alarm and scandal against the suspects before the Office of the City Prosecutor on April 11.

The accused were released on Aug. 2 after posting bail. Arraignment was set on Aug. 10.

for the designation of LGU personnel/ barangay tanod (village watchmen) and provide them with the necessary assistance to perform their role; and direct the designated personnel to coordinate with the Election Officer before tearing down unlawful election materials.

Section 240 of Comelec Resolution No. 10924 prohibits the printing, publishing, posting, and distribution of any form of campaign materials that do not bear the name of the payor or candidate

who will benefit from the election propaganda printed or aired.

Posting, displaying, or exhibiting any election material outside of authorized common poster areas, in public places, or private properties without the consent of the owner thereof is likewise prohibited.

The election period for the Oct. 30 village and youth polls will run until Nov. 29 while the campaign period is set from Oct. 19 to 28.

compound, adding that the business of the company was legitimate.

“The SIM Card Registration Act is supposed to ensure that all the owners are verifiable and that SIM cards are not used for unlawful purposes. But the presence of 28,000 SIM cards is, in itself, questionable already,” Remulla told reporters.

Remulla said authorities will go after whoever was the registered owner of the SIM cards in what could “possibly” be a test case under the SIM Registration Act.

He said investigators are looking at how Republic Act 11934 or the SIM Registration Act will apply to this case.

IN BRIEF

Japan grants P11-b loan for PH calamity programs

JAPAN has committed to provide an P11-billion loan that the Philippines can use anytime to fund its various calamity response programs.

Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko on Tuesday signed an exchange of notes to formalize the loan facility under Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA).

The initiative is the Post Disaster Standby Loan Phase 3 (PDSL 3).

According to the Japanese Embassy in Manila, PDSL 3 “seeks to support swift recovery in the aftermath of natural and health-related disasters, providing a quickdisbursing budgetary support for the Philippines’ calamity response programs.”

Kazuhiko said the move was the third PDSL to be provided for the Philippines.

“First in 2013 to support the recovery from Typhoon Yolanda, and then in 2020 for the COVID-19 pandemic response,” he said.

“With Typhoon Egay having attacked the Philippines just last month, it is evident that our countries are frequently exposed to natural disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions,” he added. Rey E. Requejo

Speaker cited for securing supply of Vietnam rice

QUEZON Rep. Wilfrido Mark Enverga on Tuesday hailed Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez for gaining a commitment from Vietnam to continue supplying the Philippines with affordable rice.

Romualdez was able to do this last Sunday in Jakarta, Indonesia, during a side meeting with Vuong Dinh Hue, President of the National Assembly of Vietnam on the eve of the formal opening of the 44th AIPA (ASEAN Parliamentary Assembly) General Assembly.

“Speaker Romualdez displayed once again why he is the alter ego of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. with the move to secure rice imports at a crucial time for the Philippines. In terms of team sports, this was a clutch move,” said Enverga, chair of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food.

“The threat of El Niño is still present despite the recent rains, and we are still trying to boost our crop production. Other countries are restricting their rice importation policies. Speaker Romualdez knows that we need all the help we can get to ensure a stable supply of rice,” he said. Maricel V. Cruz

Group urges Congress to pass MC taxis bill

A THINK tank group on Tuesday appealed to Congress to support the bill regulating the use of motorcycles-for-hire or “MC taxis” as a public utility.

“Much like the endless reruns of our favorite TV shows, the pilot study on motorcycle taxis seems to be on a loop. It’s high time we change the channel and give the people what they want: a clear, fair, and safe regulatory framework,” said Terry Ridon, Infrawatch PH convenor and former House transportation committee member. Following instructions from the concerned government agencies, the group formed the MC Taxi Technical Working Group (MC Taxi TWG) to conduct the pilot study.

Reconstituted this November, the MC Taxi TWG remains active, supervising the trial phase of motorcycle taxi services offered by firms such as Angkas, Joyride, and Move It. Ridon in a statement noted that the pilot study that the MC Taxi TWG should have accomplished has now been delayed by four years, with no clear recommendations being released yet, stalling legislative efforts in the aftermath. “This delay has led to a surge in ‘habal-habal’ rides, or motorcycles-for-hire operating outside the pilot study’s scope. It’s like watching a cliffhanger episode over and over. The people are waiting for a resolution. We must move the

COA questions NHA on P140-m ‘balik probinsya’ program during pandemic

PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr.

BILIBID HEARING. Sen. Francis Tolentino (seated, second from right) together with Senators Ronald dela Rosa and Robinhood Padilla, holds documents provided by Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang (seated left) during the hearing Tuesday on the reported body found inside a septic tank (inset) inside the maximum security compound of the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City. Joseph Muego and Danny Pata

FROM STREETS TO SCHOOLS. Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Romando Artes (right) inspects the MMDA workers cleaning of Pateros Elementary School in Brgy. San Pedro, Pateros on August 8 as part of he MMDA’s contribution to the Department of Education’s Brigada Eskwela program. The MMDA provides manpower and materials to help clean and repair public schools in Metro Manila before the opening of classes. Manny Palmero

NHA PADLOCKED. Protesters from different government housing sites, urban poor, and civil society organization place a faux padlock on the National Housing Authority head office in Quezon City, to dramatize their protest and signify their strong opposition to the proposed House Bill 8156 or the new NHA Charter. Manny Palmero

Speaker: Admin focusing on job creation, economy

By Maricel V. Cruz

HOUSE Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez shared the philippines’ roadmap toward a stronger and more resilient economy with a special focus on the creation of jobs and livelihood opportunities for filipinos.

Romualdez made the statement in front of fellow Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) lawmakers during the plenary session of the 44th AIPA (ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly general assembly. Romualdez highlighted the crucial role of the partnership between Congress and the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. in achieving such a goal.

Romualdez urged fellow ASEAN lawmakers to use the occasion as a platform not only for dialogue but, more importantly, to share best practices among member parliaments.

“Following the lead of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., we have adopted a Medium-Term Fiscal Strategy that aims to support economic recovery while ensuring fiscal sustainability,” Romualdez said.

“Together with the Executive, we have focused on creating more job opportunities for Filipinos and improving their employability.

Productivity-enhancing investments have been promoted while exercising prudence in fiscal management,” he added. He said the country’s leaders adopted such a policy, recognizing that the pandemic has exacerbated income insecurity, especially for those without any access to social protection, and those working in the informal economy.

“Retooling and re-skilling to sharpen the competence of our job seekers has been our priority, together with the development of sustainable technologies to create more green jobs,” Romualdez said. Under his leadership, Romualdez said the House of Representatives has passed 33 out of 42 priority measures adopted as the Common Legislative Agenda of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) by the end of the First Regular Session.

“Towards the end of 2022, we have taken pride in our accomplishments of the 19th Congress in its first five months, acknowledging the swift but thorough passage of a substantial number of the President’s legislative agenda, including our priority measures in the House,” he said.

“The results thus far have inspired confidence for us to pursue this further, until our development goals are met,” Romualdez added. Among others, Romualdez cited the approval of the Maharlika Investment Fund bill hailed by President Marcos as essential “in order to establish a sustainable national investment fund as a strategic mechanism for strengthening the investment activities of top performing government financial institutions, and thus pump-prime economic growth and social development.”

He also noted the timely signing of the P5.268-trillion 2023 General Appropriations Act, which is “the most important and potent tool that the President, his economic team, and the entire government can use to accomplish the goals of the prosperity roadmap.” He informed fellow ASEAN lawmakers that this week the proposed FY 2024 National Budget was already submitted to Philippine Congress for consideration.

“We intend to review and deliberate on the finer points of the proposal to ensure that it becomes the foundation of our vision for economic transformation,” Romualdez said.

Such sharing of best practices among ASEAN parliaments, according to

First Lady leads medical caravan in Bataan

FIRST Lady Liza Marcos attended the recently-held “LAB For All” medical caravan in Balanga City, Bataan. The medical caravan was the First Lady’s initiative. Hundreds of Bataan residents on Tuesday availed of free medical consultations and services and free medicines.

LAB For All was initiated as part of efforts to bring free medical consultations, laboratory services, and distribution of medicines to the communities.

Marcos, in a message, said the caravan aims to bring medical services to those affected by the recent typhoons in Bataan

Bataan Governor Joet Garcia said Bataan residents are fortunate because the First Lady recognizes the importance of health care.

Garcia also lauded the medical caravan, saying that this is an effective way to provide medical services in Bataan province.

Bataan 2nd district Cong Abet Garcia said, “Ang layuninng Lab For All ay pag-isahin ang bansa, yakapin at mahalin ang bawat Pilipino. Maraming mga Bataeno ang makikinabang sa proyektong ito.”

Pampanga Vice Governor Lilia Pineda also joined the launching of the pro-

PH improves trade ranking in UN survey

By Vito Barcelo

THE Philippines has improved its ranking from third to second spot among Southeast Asian nations in the 2023 UN Global Survey, according to the Bureau of Customs (BOC).

The UN Global Survey on Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation graded the Philippines’ implementation rate at 87.1% this year, against 86.02% in 2021.

With the scores that the country gained for 2023, the Philippines, together with Malaysia and Indonesia, placed second in the Southeast Asian region, following Singapore with a score of 96.77%.

The survey tracks progress made on implementing trade facilitation measures. It evaluates transparency, formalities, institutional arrangements and cooperation, paperless trade, and crossborder paperless trade.

“We take immense pride in the Philippines’ remarkable ascent to the second spot in the 2023 UN Global Survey on Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation,” Customs Commissioner Bienvenido.

The survey, jointly conducted by various UN bodies, provides an in-depth

analysis of trade facilitation progress in the country and highlights its remarkable achievements in fostering efficiency and promoting international collaboration.

He said that one of the key factors contributing to the Philippines’ success on the global stage is the BOC’s active participation in regional and sub-regional initiatives.

Rubio meanwhile implemented a change in leadership in the BOC. He ordered the transfer of Port of Manila district collector Maritess Martin to the Port of Davao to replace Guillermo Pedro Francia who was reassigned to the Port of Limay.

Martin was replaced by Manila International Container Port deputy collector for assessment Rizalino Jose Torralba, who in turn was replaced by Batangas deputy collector for operations Filemon Mendoza Jr.

Port of Limay collector Alexandra Lumontad replaced Port of Cagayan de Oro collector Erastus Sandino Austria who was reassigned to the Port of Clark.

Port of Subic collector Carmelita Talusan replaced X-ray Inspection Project chief Giovanni Imaysay who was transferred as district collector of Port of Iloilo.

Bantag files court appeal seeking overturn of DOJ murder indictment

FUGITIVE former Bureau of Corrections

(BuCor) chief Gerald Bantag has asked the Court of Appeals to overturn the resolution of the Department of Justice (DOJ) indicting him of two counts of murder, in connection with his involvement in the murder of radio commentator Percival “Percy Lapid” Mabasa and Bilibid inmate June Villamor.

Bantag insisted on his innocence, despite his co-accused previously pleading guilty to lesser offenses over the deaths of Mabasa and Villamor.

In a petition dated July 10 filed through his lawyers from the Santos Law Office, Bantag assailed the Justice Secretary, the Prosecutor General, and the panel of prosecutors of committing grave abuse of discretion for indicting him with murder before 2 courts in Las Piñas and Muntinlupa.

Bantag also challenged the DOJ’s and prosecution panel’s refusal to recuse from handling the murder probes, citing flaws in

the prosecution’s theory over the deaths of Lapid and Mabasa. His former deputy, Ricardo Zulueta, joined him in the petition, represented by lawyer Lauro Gacayan.

Bantag told the CA that the DOJ lacks evidence to link him to the killing of Lapid outside his subdivision in Las Piñas on October 3, 2022.

The DOJ prosecutors claimed that Bantag gave the instructions to kill Lapid to Zulueta, who in turn relayed it to other inmates through a chain: from Zulueta to Denver Mayores; Mayores to Alvin Labra;

Labra to Aldrin Galicia; Galicia to Jun Villamor; Villamor to Christopher Bacoto; and Bacoto to Joel Escorial.

Escorial had confessed to killing Lapid.

Labra, Galicia and another inmate Alfie Peñaredonda are commanders of the BCJ Gang, Sputnik Gang

and HappyGoLucky Gang, respectively.

Bantag noted that only Escorial mentioned him by name as the person whom Villamor allegedly identified as the mastermind behind Lapid’s killing while Mayores, Labra and Galicia, who claimed to have met with Zulueta, only referred to “itaas” and “tanda.”

According to the accused, the chain is “inherently defective” for its “potential for distortion, misinterpretation, or misinformation at each step of the chain.”

“Consider that based on the evidence it was only the last person, Escorial, who identified the petitioner. All the others simply mentioned references to the petitioner. This type of communication process is often referred to as a ‘rumor mill’ or ‘hearsay chain,’ is inherently unreliable and susceptible to errors, biases, and deliberate manipulation,” Bantag said, in his petition.

“In this chain of communication, the

Captain of capsized MB Princess Aya says he bribed PCG officials

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

TESTIFYING before the Senate Public Services Committee, Donald Anain, the captain of the capsized MB Princess Aya divulged that he bribed members of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to allow the ship to sail hours after Typhoon Egay left the Philippine Area of Responsibility.

Pressed by Sen. Raffy Tulfo, Anain said he handed P100 worth of bananas and P50 cash to the PCG.

Anain said he usually gives money. Tulfo however, rejected the story of Asain that he only gave bananas and P50 cash since the boat was overloaded and had no license.

Anain also admitted before the panel chaired by Sen. Grace Poe that he only has Seafarer Identification Book (SIB) and that he has no license. He got the SIB after a

three-day training with MARINA. The SIB, he said, is honored by MARINA and PCG.

The Philippine Coast Guard denied the allegations.

“That’s absurd. I do not think our personnel would resort to accepting banana and fifty pesos in exchange of favors. The Captain denied giving liquors to our personnel. Our personnel also denied demanding any of these items. Wala silang tinatangap (They did not receive anything),” PCG spokesman Rear Admiral Armand Balilo told the media in a message.

But MARINA and PCG said the boat captain should have a license.

Anain also said the boat has 50 life vests, and that he was only expecting 30 to 35 passengers that time.

PO2 Jay Rivera of the PCG assigned in Binangonan, Rizal where the tragedy occured said he signed the manifesto for only 22 passengers. Charles Dantes

original alleged source of the order is distant from the final recipient. As a result, there is no clear and direct link between the alleged order and the person who supposedly issued it. Each person in the chain may unintentionally or intentionally alter the message, misunderstand its meaning, or misremember the details. This can lead to a distortion of the original order, making it unreliable as evidence,” he added.

According to Bantag, Escorial claimed he had already been hired to kill Lapid as early as September 5, 2022 but according to the gang leaders, they only met with Zulueta for the order to kill the broadcaster on the second week of September.

Bantag said Escorial never mentioned him in his initial extrajudicial confession but only in his subsequent affidavit, which the former BuCor chief claimed could have been influenced by the prosecution’s promise to discharge him as state witness.

gram in Bataan.

The First Lady express gratitude to the governor, citing the official’s participation and leadership in the free medical services that are seen to benefit many Bataan residents.

Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Ted Herbosa also attended the medical caravan, as well as Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian, and TESDA Director General Suharto Mangudadatu. Herbosa said the national government is launching the LAB For All initiative in several provinces across the nation. Butch Gunio

FORMER Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Martin Diño passed away after a battle with cancer.

The news was confirmed by Diño’s daughter, actress Liza Diño, in a statement posted on social media.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Martin Diño, Former Undersecretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). ‘Bobot,’ as he is fondly called, peacefully died at 2:15 am on August 8, 2023, surrounded by his family,” the actress, in the statement, said.

Salceda urges promotion of local chocolate

ALBAY Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda has cited the need for the promotion of a unique Filipino brand of chocolate as a means to boost the local cacao industry.

Salceda, vice chair of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food, made the statement in a congressional hearing on various bills on institutionalizing a Philippine Cacao Development Program, creating for the purpose the Philippine Cacao Development Council, and appropriating funds.

“There is an existing global demand of 142,000 tons of cacao and chocolate in the market, and that deficit is expected to grow to 190,000 tons next year. So, this is an area of agriculture where prices are expected to continue being promising for producers,” Salceda, chair of the House ways and means committee and the House resident economist, said. Maricel V. Cruz

Gadon eyes private sector on feeding plan

PRESIDENTIAL Adviser for Poverty Alleviation Larry Gadon on Tuesday said they are partnering with the private sector as part of its corporate social responsibility to help feed school children from depressed areas.

“Why do many students from the depressed areas could not finish their studies? Because they do not have the nutrition they need,” he said. “It would be hard to study if one is hungry,” he added.

He said he has tapped large companies under the Batang Busog Malusog program to help address hunger among students in severalselect public schools located within poor communities. Rio N. Araja

STOP AND GAIN.

Dr. Maricar B. Limpin, executive director, Action on Smoking and Health Philippines, explains the mechanics of the ‘Stop and Gain: A Quit and Win Tobacco Cessation Contest,’during a press conference held at the Department of Health building in Manila. Norman Cruz.

MOCK VOTE. A woman casts her vote at Pasong Tamo Elementary School in Quezon City during the automated Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan mock elections spearheaded by the Commission on Elections on August 8. MANNY PALMERO

A UNITED ASEAN. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez walks with Dr. Puan Maharani, Speaker of Indonesia’s House of Representatives at the 44th AIPA (ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly) General Assembly in Indonesia. (Inset) Romualdez and Maharani later joined other ASEAN leaders in a gesture of unity. Maharani is also the current AIPA president. Ver Noveno

Former DILG Usec Martin Diño passes away

NBDB brings Philippine Book Fair to Davao

THE National Book Development Board (NBDB) brings its Philippine Book Festival (PBF) to Davao next weekend for the second leg of what promises to be one of the agency’s most successful and influential seminal events for the benefit of readers, writers, publishers, and the literary community.

The NBDB has lined up activities for all ages. There will be engaging author talks and panel discussions, book readings and signing sessions, literary workshops and interactive sessions, the Pinoy Book Fair (komiks , children’s books, novels, textbooks), exciting book giveaways and raffles, and local food and refreshments.

Among the many interesting guests who’ll be at the Festival are historian Ambeth Ocampo, who’ll be interviewing National Artist for Literature Resil Mojares; cartoonist Manix Abrera, who’ll be holding a drawing workshop; writer Jay Ignacio, who’ll be signing copies of his National Book Award-winning graphic novel Alandal; and chef Claude Tayag, who’ll be hosting the Lunch Talk! Adobo Series.

An interesting activity for young folk is the Booktopia Scavenger Hunt 2.0 of the Book Development Association of the Philippines (BDAP). The event gives free books and other prizes to those who complete all the missions in the Hunt.

The roster of guests alone, from many different backgrounds and fields, promises an exciting event as there’ll be something for everyone, whatever their interest.

The debut and first leg of the PBF was held June 2 to 4 at the World Trade Center Manila.

Beyond words R

IPPLES, yet again, in the West Philippine Sea, when China less than a week back was reported by the Philippine Coast Guard to have blocked its vessels for a resupply mission.

on. Literary events also play a pivotal role in nurturing a reading culture among Filipinos.

Reading is a gateway to knowledge, empathy, and understanding, and book festivals create an environment that encourages the love of reading.

They feature book launches, readings, panel discussions, and workshops that engage readers of all ages and backgrounds. The events cultivate a sense of curiosity, exploration, and imagination, and hopefully will instill a lifelong love for books and reading in the young.

Book events also foster community engagement and social interaction.

As readers, writers, and publishers come together, they form connections, share experiences, and exchange ideas.

These interactions create a sense of belonging and camaraderie within the literary community, and encourage aspiring writers to pursue their passion and develop their craft.

They also connect readers with writers and publishers for feedback, friendships, and fandoms.

The PCG said its vessels were en route to Ayungin Shoal, when China blocked and fired water cannons against the mission the former said directly threatened the peace and stability in the region.

5 Philippine resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea,” the statement read.

“Firing water cannons and employing unsafe blocking maneuvers, PRC ships interfered with the Philippines’ lawful exercise of high seas freedom of navigation and jeopardized the safety of the Philippine vessels and crew,” it added.

Book events also connect readers with writers and publishers for feedback, friendships, and fandoms

I attended that one, and, as I wrote in my June 7 column, I was “at a loss for words – superlatives escape me” in attempting to describe how successful the event was.

The NBDB’s staging team went above and beyond to provide a friction-free experience that allowed attendees to focus on enjoying themselves.

Billed as a “literary extravaganza,” the PBF will be from Aug. 18 to 20, 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m at the SMX Convention Center, Lanang. Admission is free to all. View the entire program at www.philippinebookfest.com. Monitor updates at the NBDB Facebook page: www. facebook.com/nbdb.phil.

* * *

The reason I’m writing about the PBF, and feature other literary happenings such as book launches in my columns, is because emphasis needs to be placed on the importance of such events in developing a vibrant national literature and in cultivating a reading culture among Filipinos.

These events provide a platform for Filipino writers and publishers to showcase their work and for readers to find them.

They offer a unique opportunity for both established and emerging authors to gain exposure, connect with readers, and network within the literary community.

By celebrating and promoting local literature, these festivals create a sense of pride and recognition for Filipino writers and their contributions to the country’s cultural heritage.

The written word preserves and promotes Filipino identity and heritage. Authors often write about the rich tapestry of Philippine history, traditions, and values.

These books serve as mirrors reflecting the collective experiences of the Filipino people, allowing readers to better understand their roots and cultural identity. By supporting and amplifying these voices through book events, the nation embraces its uniqueness and diversity, and ensures its cultural heritage is passed

In addition to promoting literature and reading, these events also have economic significance. By showcasing local books and supporting local publishers, the events boost the publishing industry, leading to its growth and sustainability.

This, in turn, contributes to the overall growth of the creative economy in the Philippines.

In short, what the PBF -- and by extension other literary events of the NBDB and other institutional members of the literary community – does in staging book events is conduct essential cultural events that contribute to the development of our national literature.

They provide a platform for writers to be recognized and celebrated, preserve and promote Filipino cultural identity, and cultivate a reading culture among Filipinos.

They provide opportunities for readers to connect with writers and find books that they may not otherwise be able to access.

These festivals are not only important for literature but also for fostering access to books and community engagement, encouraging creativity, and contributing to economic growth.

As such, they deserve continued support and promotion to ensure a flourishing literary and cultural landscape in the Philippines.

* *

*

Sending best wishes for safety and success to artist Solana Lim Perez, who is participating in the 2023 Mongol Derby happening right now.

Sol applied to join the race way back in 2019 and trained for endurance riding with the Kabadjo Horse Handlers Association (the one operating within Camp John Hay, Baguio City). She learned basic riding skills from the Wright Park “pony boys.” Perez is the first Filipina to join the world’s longest and toughest race.

The Mongol Derby distance is 1,000 kilometers across the steppes, with riders expected to navigate their own way between horse stations or ‘urtuus’ established at 35-kilometer intervals.

The event recreates the system used by Genghis Khan to convey messages across his vast empire.

The race uses GPS tracking equipment to monitor all the riders, and as I write this on Sunday afternoon, Sol is on her way to Horse Station 8.

There are 20 more stations after that before she reaches the finish line.

Check out the tracking map at blogging. mongolderby.com to see Sol’s progress and that of the other riders.

* * * FB and Twitter: @DrJennyO / Email: writerjennyo@gmail.com

THE nation is still recovering from the embarrassment generated by the recent fiasco at the Department of Tourism headed by Secretary Christina Frasco, a politician from Cebu. She belongs to the Garcia political dynasty that dominates the province.

Last month, news reports revealed Frasco’s DOT allocated a staggering P49-million for a campaign project to promote tourism in the Philippines.

The campaign called for a videogram to focus on tourist destinations all over the country. It also called for other promotional strategies, including a new slogan and a new template logo.

The project was awarded to DDB Philippines, a public relations company.

According to the DOT, the materials to be used in the campaign must be original creations, which means DDB Philippines must produce the videogram using its own visuals.

After some time, DDB Philippines submitted to the DOT a new tourism cam-

paign slogan and the contracted videogram, among others.

Surprisingly, the new tourism campaign slogan was the bland and simplistic phrase “Love the Philippines” which is to replace the existing one—“It’s more fun in the Philippines.”

As for the videogram, the DOT apparently accepted it on its reckless assumption the visuals therein are, as promised by DDB Philippines, original footage of real Philippine tourist destinations.

Thereafter, the DOT disseminated the videogram to the news media, and online.

Soon after that, many experts on visual graphics noticed that several segments of the videogram are not original materials produced by DDB Philippines.

The segments are stock footage which DDB Philippines apparently acquired from an upscale distributor which sells them.

Aggravating the problem is the stock footage are not even about real Philippine tourist destinations, but sites located in Asia and the Middle East, among other places.

The DDB Philippines videogram made it appear those foreign sites are in the Philippines.

That revelation put Frasco’s DOT in very embarrassing light. The anomaly was all over the news, both

China’s coast guard countered it was implementing necessary controls in accordance with the law to deter Philippine ships, which it accused of trespassing and carrying illegal building materials.

China claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, an assertion rejected internationally, while Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei, Taiwan and the Philippines have various claims to certain areas.

Immediately, the US Department of State said the People’s Republic of China’s firing of water cannons and employing unsafe blocking maneuvers against PCG vessels on Saturday “interfered with the Philippines’ lawful exercise of high seas freedom of navigation

and jeopardized the safety of the Philippine vessels and crew.”

In a statement shared by the US Embassy in Manila via Twitter, the State Department reaffirmed its commitment with the Philippines and called on China to follow international rules and order because it has “no lawful claim” to the resource-rich region.

“The United States stands with our Philippine allies in the face of dangerous actions by the Coast Guard and maritime militia of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to obstruct an August

Senate vs. China

HOW do you think China will respond to the Senate resolution strongly condemning its continued harassment of our Coast Guard and fishermen in the West Philippine Sea by their Coast Guard and militia vessels?

Senate Resolution 718, principally authored by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and Sen. Risa Hontiveros, urges the Philippine government to take appropriate action in “asserting and securing the Philippines’ sovereign rights over its exclusive economic zone and continental shelf.”

The resolution is the end-result of consultations by senators with officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) led by Secretary Enrique Manalo and the Armed Forces of the Philippines headed by Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner .

Earlier, the two senators filed Resolution 659 urging the DFA to sponsor a resolution before the United Nations General Assembly, calling on China to stop its harassment of Philippine vessels in the WPS.

Resolution 718 slams China’s continued incursions in the WPS as illegal, as it violates the 2016 landmark ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration.

The lawmakers agreed there is “no legal basis for China to claim historic rights to resources within the sea areas falling within the nine-dash line” and that Beijing’s claims ran contrary to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

“Rather than comply with the decision, the Chinese government has instead chosen to ramp up its harassment of Philippine vessels, including those of the country’s fisherfolk, navy, and coast guard, thus undermining peace and stability in the region,” the resolution read.

“In clear violation of the Arbitral Award, China has built artificial islands in various parts of the WPS – fortified with airstrips, military installations, hardware, and equipment-and has militarized at least three of those artificial islands, arming them with anti-ship and antiaircraft missile systems, laser and jamming

We hope to see more positive collaboration beyond words DOT

equipment and fighter jets,” it added.

The resolution also noted that in the past two months, the Philippine Coast Guard and military noted the “increased presence of Chinese vessels and maritime militia swarming the Recto Bank and Scarborough Shoal or Bajo de Masinloc.”

“If we have not manifested our position, then it is as if China had succeeded in muzzling the Philippine Senate, ” the senators said.

What, then, should the Philippine government do to address China’s incursions in the WPS aside from holding dialogues with the Chinese government?

Will Beijing take kindly to all these Philippine initiatives? We don’t think so

One, bring international attention to China’s harassment of Filipino fishermen in the Philippine EEZ and its continued violation of the Hague Ruling and the UNCLOS.

Two, use international fora to rally multilateral support for the enforcement of the Hague Ruling and raise awareness on the real situation in the West Philippine Sea.

Three, engage like-minded countries in various international organizations, meetings, and other fora to urge China to respect the Hague Ruling and the UNCLOS.

Four, file a Resolution before the United Nations General Assembly calling for the cessation of all activities that harass Philippine vessels and violate the Philippines’ established rights in the West Philippine Sea.

And five, pursue other diplomatic modes as the Department of Foreign Affairs may deem appropriate and

tourism in the Philippines?

After Frasco’s fiasco was exposed, Frasco announced the DOT will no longer use the videogram.

However, it appears the DOT is inclined to retain the “Love the Philippines” slogan.

Frasco also said as a consequence of this anomaly, the DOT cancelled its P49-million contract with DDB Philippines.

She also claimed the DOT has not paid DDB Philippines anything for the campaign.

Whether Frasco’s claim of non-payment is true or not remains to be seen.

The US State Department wrote: “By impeding necessary provisions from reaching the Filipino service members stationed at Second Thomas Shoal, the PRC has also undertaken unwarranted interference in lawful Philippine maritime operations.”

The US also expressed Washington’s willingness to invoke its mutual defense commitments under Article IV of the 1951 US Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty in case of an “armed attack on Philippine public vessels, aircraft, and armed forces – including those of its Coast Guard in the South China Sea.”

It called on China “to abide by the arbitral ruling (in 2016 that invalidated China’s nine-dash line claim) as well as to respect the freedom of navigation – a right to which all states are entitled.”

We hope to see more positive collaboration beyond words.

necessary.

In fact, the DFA is already expanding ties with Vietnam, including security cooperation.

Last week, Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo went on an official visit to Vietnam for the 10th Philippine-Vietnam Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation where the two countries discussed areas of cooperation such as defense, maritime, economic and people-to-people ties.

In a speech delivered at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam on Aug. 1, Secretary Manalo said that while Manila and Hanoi had competing claims in the South China Sea, this underscored the need for the two countries to work together.

“Our geographies and status as major littoral and claimant states in the South China Sea make maritime cooperation a vital point of interaction between our two countries, as economic and security partners. As in centuries prior, this body of water connects our peoples, despite some differences,” Manalo said.

From Hanoi, Manalo also visited Vientiane for the 2nd PhilippinesLaos JCBC where the two sides explored ways to expand bilateral ties, including security cooperation.

The JCBC is the primary mechanism for the Philippines to discuss with both Vietnam and Laos possible strengthening of bilateral relations, as well as various regional and global issues.

Will Beijing take kindly to all these Philippine initiatives? We don’t think so.

Perhaps they will even slam these as an affront to their sovereignty.

But we should insist on our legitimate rights under international law, and resolutely resist their use of force to and outright bullying and intimidation to settle the territorial and maritime disputes in the South China Sea.

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

charges against the DOT officials who allowed the irregularity to happen.

If Frasco is unable to offer a satisfactory explanation as to why this embarrassing anomaly happened, she should resign her post immediately and spare President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. the trouble of dismissing her from the tourism portfolio.

Regarding the “Love the Philippines” slogan, if the DOT insists on using it, that will create a problem because according to Frasco, the DOT’s contract with DDB Philippines has been canceled.

Be that as it may, “Love the Philippines” seems forgettable enough.

It’s plain and bland, and isn’t catchy enough.

local and international.

It indicates Frasco and her DOT personnel responsible for the DDB Philippines project failed to notice the fraudulent misrepresentation—foreign sites made to appear they are Philippine tourist destinations —before they allowed the dissemination thereof to the public. Didn’t they even watch it before they disseminated it?

That revelation also indicates Frasco and her DOT minions are unable to distinguish between local tourist destinations from tourist sites abroad! Officials of the DOT are not even familiar with our very own tourist destinations! How can they even begin to promote

Frasco has not substantiated her story with proof.

Perhaps she expects everyone to take her word for it, even if the incident involves P49-million in taxpayers’ money.

So far, Frasco seems mum about the matter.

The public demands an investigation.

Whether or not Frasco has actually ordered an investigation on this fiasco is unclear.

Frasco and her DOT officials should explain why they did not bother to review the DDB videogram before allowing the material to be disseminated to the public.

That failure, which seems to be attended by gross inexcusable negligence, may lead to the filing of anti-graft or administrative

For me, it sounds more like an exhortation for Filipinos to buy locally manufactured products instead of as a tourism promotional slogan.

Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile also finds the “Love the Philippines” slogan unsatisfactory.

Enrile, a keen observer of events, is known to focus his public commentaries on legal issues. The slogan, which doesn’t involve law, must have been so objectionable to Enrile that he deviated from his usual legal discourses and this time openly expressed his reservations about the slogan.

Senator Nancy Binay also dislikes the slogan, which she called “unsalvageable.”

Stocks, peso fall on Fed hike concerns

By Jenniffer B. Austria

LOCAL stocks and the Philippine peso fell Tuesday on concerns over weak China trade data and possible new interest rate hikes by the US Federal Reserve.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index dropped below the 6,500 level Tuesday on weak China trade data.

The 30-company bellwether lost 34.81 points, or 0.54 percent, to close at 6,472.97, while the broader allshares index slipped 12.81 points to settle at 3,461.11.

“The index failed to sustain yesterday’s technical rebound as investors sold off after disappointing China trade date that showed a massive contraction in July

China logs biggest fall in exports for more than 3 years

BEIJING—China last month suffered its biggest fall in exports for more than three years, official data showed Tuesday, as the world’s second-largest economy is battered by sluggish global demand and a domestic slowdown.

The data will likely ramp up calls for leaders to do more to revive growth, having laid out a series of stimulus measures in recent weeks focusing on consumers and the troubled property sector.

Sales of Chinese products to foreign markets sank 14.5 percent on-year last month, a third consecutive drop, according to the customs authority.

The decline was bigger than expected and the heaviest since a 17.2 percent plunge in January-February 2020, when the economy came to a standstill in the early weeks of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Apart from a brief rebound in March and April, exports have been in constant decline since October.

The threat of recession in the United States and Europe, combined with high inflation, has contributed to weakening international demand for Chinese products in recent months.

Exports dived 12.4 percent on-year in June.

Shipments to the European Union in the first seven months of the year came to 2.08 trillion yuan ($288.9 billion), down 2.6 percent, the customs authority said in a separate statement on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, imports shrunk a forecast-busting 12.4 percent, a ninth straight month of contraction and further evidence that domestic demand has fallen off a cliff.

“China trade figures for July disappointed again,” Ken Cheung Kin Tai, an analyst at Mizuho Bank, wrote in a note.

“The weak trade figures highlighted the sluggish external demand, while (importers) refrained from purchasing goods for domestic production and investment,” Cheung said. AFP

imports and exports,” China Bank Capital managing director Juan Paolo Colet said.

Investors are expected to monitor the release of US July inflation rate and the Philippines’ second-quarter gross domestic product data this week.

The peso also tumbled to 56.24 against the US dollar Tuesday from 56.02 Monday as soaring global crude prices could push up imports this month.

Meanwhile, stock markets stuttered Tuesday on renewed concerns the Fed would hike rates again, while another weak batch of trade data compounded worries about the struggling Chinese economy.

The positive sentiment that fueled a rally through much of July has given way to nervousness that while US inflation is coming down, officials will keep tightening monetary policy to make sure they have prices under control.

Those concerns were magnified Monday when Fed

Governor Michelle Bowman repeated her weekend comments that she wanted to see “evidence that inflation is on a consistent and meaningful downward path” and rates should be lifted again.

Talk of another increase has jolted the feel-good mood that came after the Fed’s latest policy meeting, when it said it would be more data-dependent in making decisions -- which many took as a hint it had finished raising rates.

Still, New York Fed chief John Williams told the New York Times he thought “monetary policy is in a good place—we’ve got the policy where we need to be”.

In an interview published Monday, he added it was “an open question” on whether rates needed to go even higher. But he said if inflation continued to soften then interest rates could start coming down next year or in 2025. With AFP

Japan’s SoftBank sees shock $3.3-b first-quarter net loss

TOKYO, Japan—Japanese investment giant SoftBank Group reported on Tuesday a surprise net loss of more than $3 billion in the first quarter as it was hit by a drop in the share prices of major holdings as well as a weaker yen.

The firm has made huge bets to find and grow hot new tech ventures around the world, but that has left its earnings vulnerable to market forces.

Results have lurched between dizzying highs and lows in recent years, with China’s crackdown on its tech sector taking a toll on the company.

And on Tuesday it said it lost an eye-watering 477.6 billion yen ($3.3 billion) in the three months to June, badly missing a 73 billion yen profit forecast by analysts in a Bloomberg News survey.

The company suffered investment losses “due to declines in the share prices of Alibaba, Deutsche Telekom, and T-Mobile US”, it said in a statement.

SoftBank’s Vision Fund investment unit, however, swung to profit after five straight quarters of losses.

SoftBank Group is going through a broad rethink to restore its financial health after taking a heavy hit from global economic disruptions caused by the pandemic.

It is moving to list British semiconductor firm Arm in New

York while selling down its stake in Alibaba.

Arm is hoping to raise as much as $10 billion in the initial public offering, valuing it at about $60-70 billion, according to Bloomberg, making it the largest tech listing this year.

Going public “will be a positive factor if the IPO is done in fiscal 2023, as SoftBank will sell part of its shares in Arm at some point”, Hideki Yasuda, analyst at Toyo Securities, told AFP.

SoftBank initially hoped to sell Arm to US chip giant Nvidia, but the $40-billion deal was scrapped over regulatory objections.

According to a report by the Financial Times last month, Nvidia is in talks to join a list of large “anchor investors” to support Arm’s IPO as early as September.

SoftBank is also reportedly planning to sell almost all of its stake in e-commerce giant Alibaba. AFP

PayPal debuts US dollar-backed stablecoin for payments

SAN FRANCISCO, United States

—PayPal on Monday launched a stablecoin digital currency backed by US dollars to be used for transactions at its global online payments platform.

PayPal USD is issued by Paxos Trust Company and backed by dollar deposits and similar cash holdings, the online payments giant said in a release.

It comes as the cryptocurrency industry is suffering hard times after the spectacular collapse of FTX and various legal cases against the sector’s biggest players.

As the biggest cryptocurrencies are famously volatile, entrepreneurs invented a theoretically more reliable alternative known as stablecoins.

These coins are pegged to the US dollar or other fiat currencies, but still come with concerns their value can tank.

“The shift toward digital currencies requires a stable instrument that is both digitally native and easily connected to fiat currency like the US dollar,” said PayPal chief executive Dan Schulman.

PayPal USD is designed to make payments on across the global platform easier and open a door to more big brands getting involved with digital assets, according to the Silicon Valley-based company.

PayPal planned to soon make the stablecoin available at Venmo, its peer-to-peer payment service.

MOST ACTIVE

PayPal’s decision to accept bitcoin in late 2020 helped kick off a precipitous rise in the value of crypto assets, driven partly by a sense that the digital tokens could potentially function like currencies one day.

However, scandals have rocked the cryptocurrency market and made regulators wary.

Financial regulators in the United States have argued that cryptocurrencies are securities and should face strict rules.

The debut of PayPal USD

came two weeks after OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman and other co-founders unveiled a Worldcoin crypto project that relies on an eye scan to verify a user’s identity.

Worldcoin said it will provide users with a private digital identity—a “World ID” —after they register in person using an “Orb” imaging device that scans their eye’s unique iris pattern.

This was to help solve one of the main challenges facing the crypto industry that

largely relies on pseudonyms to operate, leaving it vulnerable to spam bots and scams.

The company also launched its Worldcoin token, a cryptocurrency now tradable in certain locations and platforms, to millions of users who participated in early tests, the statement said.

In a sign of increased caution by regulators in treating crypto, Worldcoin wasn’t available to trade in the US, where enthusiasm for the sector is significant, because of restrictions. AFP

secures shareholders’ approval to delist from PSE

By Jenniffer B. Austria

METRO Pacific Investments Corp., one of the country’s largest conglomerates, said Tuesday it obtained shareholders’ approval to delist from the Philippine Stock Exchange.

MPIC chairman and president Manuel Pangilinan said during the company’s special stockholders meeting that more than two-thirds of shareholders approved the resolution for the company to voluntary delist from the local bourse.

Shareholders owning 22.3 billion MPIC shares, or equivalent to 77.7 percent of total outstanding common shares, voted in favor of delisting, while share-

holders owning 69.38 million shares or less than 1 percent voted against it.

MPIC said with the shareholders’ approval, the consortium of companies planning to take the company private would launch the tender offer to acquire shares owned by minority shareholders on Aug. 9 which would run until Sept.

7. MPIC expects to delist by Oct. 9.

The consortium, composed of Metro

Pacific Holdings Inc., MIG Holdings Inc., GT Capital Holdings Inc. and MitPacific Infrastructure Holdings Corp., offered to acquire all outstanding MPIC common shares other than those they already own at P5.20 apiece.

“We are pleased with the result from the MPIC shareholder meeting which allows the tender offer to begin, the ultimate objective of the vote today. Since announcing our offer price, we have received favorable feedback from the market, with institutional investors and stock brokerages stating that it is fair and acceptable. Therefore, we look forward to a successful completion of the delisting transaction,” said Christopher Young, executive director of First Pacific Co. Ltd.,

DOF: 12.1% of 2024 gov’t budget for debt service

FINANCE Secretary Benjamin Diokno said Tuesday 12.1 percent, or P699.2 billion of the proposed P5.768-trillion budget for fiscal year 2024 is allocated to financing the debt burden, including net lending.

“When assessing the debt burden component of the budget, it is crucial to solely consider interest payments and net lending,” Diokno said in a statement.

the parent company of MPIC.

Pangilinan said with the impending exit of MPIC from the local bourse, the group still planned to list its tollways, hospital and water utility firms in the PSE which woud allow shareholders to invest directly in the underlying assets of the group.

Pangilinan said the tollways group was planning to conduct an initial public offering as early as 2024 to raise fresh capital to fund big-ticket infrastructure projects.

The hospital group is also considering an IPO, while Maynilad Water Services Inc. is required to list its shares on the local bourse under the concession agreement.

He said interest payments were declining, freeing up fiscal resources which could be reallocated to support the government’s priority programs. Data showed that from 1986 to 2015, the average share of interest payments to the total national government expenditures stood at 23.3 percent. This declined to an average of 10.1 percent from 2016 to 2022.

“For 2024, the allocation for interest payments is only 11.6 percent or P670.5 billion of the 2024 budget. This allows us to spend more on socioeconomic programs and projects in our priority sectors such as education and infrastructure,” Diokno said.

Diokno also said that under any accounting standard, the principal amortization of debt is not included in the expense item since it is not classified as expenditure, hence it is not automatically appropriated. “The settlement of debt obligations incurred from expenses were already recorded in the past. Therefore, principal amortization only represents the fulfillment of financial responsibilities arising from previously recorded expenses,” he said. Julito G. Rada

AirAsia PH expands operations in Cebu AIRASIA Philippines said Tuesday it is expanding its operations in Cebu to strengthen its connectivity to other destinations in the country and in ASEAN.

“Our main growth will be in Cebu. Our team is now working out on putting plans together to grow flights to and from Cebu. As we speak, we now have Japan, South Korea and China,” said Tony Fernandes, president and chief executive of Capital A, the parent company of AirAsia.

“We will do more flights to Bangkok and Bali connecting to Cebu,” he added.

AirAsia Philippines flies seven times daily from Manila to Cebu. Flights to Caticlan and Davao via Cebu remain at three times weekly.

Flights to international destinations such as Narita (Tokyo), and Seoul (Incheon) remain daily, while flights to Taipei continue to commence four times weekly.

Fernandes, who also expressed the intention of bringing the ride-hailing app airasia Ride to Cebu, highlighted the importance of improving major hubs such as Mactan-Cebu International Airport and Manila International Airport to attract more tourists and help rebuild the tourism industry. Darwin G. Amojelar

FILIPINO PRODUCTS. The Department of Trade and Industry and Air Asia Philippines sign a memorandum of agreement, making Air Asia the first international airline to carry Go Lokal products and showcase the Philippines’ finest local products in both domestic and global flights. Signing the agreement are AirAsia Philippines chief executive Ricardo Isla (left) and DTI assistant secretary Glenn Peñaranda. Joining them are director Marievic Bonoan of the DTI-Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion and Air Asia ancillary manager Pax Paloma.

Trade deficit fell by a third in June as imports shrank 15%

By Julito G. Rada

THE Philippines trade-in-goods

deficit declined by 33.3 percent in June to $3.92 billion from $5.87 billion a year ago, as imports shrank 15.2 percent on lower value of petroleum products.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that it was the narrowest trade deficit in four months since it amounted to $3.905 billion in

February 2023.

“The narrowest trade deficit in four months and also among the narrowest in more than 1.5 years [was] due to [a] decline in imports to among the lowest in more than a year or since February 2022 and the highest exports in seven months or since November 2022,”

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said in a Viber message when sought for comment.

He said a narrower trade deficit would mathematically lead to faster economic growth, with less purchases of goods from abroad.

“This would also somewhat help stabilize the peso exchange rate vs. the US dollar with less requirements to purchase US dollars to finance payments of imports,” he said.

Ricafort said the other factor that caused the decline in trade deficit was the lower prices of global oil and other

Foreign reserves rose to $99.7b as of end-July

THE Philippines’ gross international reserves rose to $99.7 billion as of end-July 2023 from $99.4 billion in June, driven by the higher value of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ gold holdings and net income from investments overseas.

The BSP said in a statement Tuesday the GIR level represented a more than adequate external liquidity buffer equivalent to 7.4 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income.

It was also about 5.9 times the country’s short-term external debt based on original maturity and 4.1 times based on residual maturity.

commodities in June.

Exports in June amounted to $6.70 billion, up 0.8 percent from $6.64 billion a year ago. Total exports in the first half amounted to $34.94 billion, down by 9.3 percent from $38.54 billion in the same period last year.

Imports fell to $10.62 billion in June from $12.52 billion in the same month of 2022. In the first six months, imports also went down by 8.0 percent to $62.90 billion from $68.38 billion.

ACEN signs deal to lease 800 hectares of Laguna Lake for floating solar site

ACEN Corp., through its subsidiaries,

Tuesday signed a renewable energy contract area utilization agreement with the Laguna Lake Development Authority

to lease 800 hectares for the development of 1,000 megawatts of floating solar project.

ACEN said the agreement marks a pivotal step toward the development of a groundbreaking large-scale floating solar

project. It also forms part of ACEN’s commitment to incorporating emerging technologies into its renewable energy portfolio.

The project will be situated on Laguna Lake, the country’s largest freshwater lake, and could contribute a substantial 1,000 MW to ACEN’s growing renewables capacity.

ACEN president and chief executive Eric Francia said the large-scale floating solar project would be a crucial part of the company’s master plan to achieve its 2030 goal.

“We are committed to expanding our clean energy assets while addressing land scarcity. This initiative is a tangible opportunity for ACEN to adopt new technologies, contribute to the Luzon grid, and bolster the Philippines’ energy self-sufficiency while tackling the critical issue of climate change,” Francia said.

where aside from ACEN, SunAsia Energy Inc. and its partner, Macquarie Group’s Blueleaf Energy was able to secure the lease of 1,000 hectares with a capacity of 1,300 MW, while Vena Energy will lease the remaining 200 hectares.

ACEN applied for solar energy operating contracts for eight blocks of 100 hectares each in the southern and eastern sections of the lake with the Department of Energy.

“We’re still in the process of the predevelopment stage so we have to work on the permitting, including the ECC [environmental compliance certificate]. We need to work on the grid connection. Obviously, we need a market for that, I think the Green Energy Auction hopefully will create the right space,” Francia said.

“The month-on-month increase in the GIR level reflected mainly the upward valuation adjustments in the value of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ gold holdings due to the increase in the price of gold in the international market, the BSP’s net foreign exchange operations, net income from the BSP’s investments abroad, and the national government’s net foreign currency deposits with the BSP,” it said. Julito G. Rada

San Miguel’s profit grew 18% to P23.3b in first six months

CONGLOMERATE San Miguel Corp. said Tuesday net income grew 18 percent in the first half of 2023 to P23.3 billion from a year ago, on sustained performance across businesses and contributions from recentlyacquired Eagle Cement.

Consolidated revenues, however, went down by 4 percent to P685.2 billion as fuel subsidiary Petron Corp. continued to be affected by declining crude oil prices and San Miguel Global Power contended with lower volumes. Consolidated operating income was up 5 percent at P69.9 billion, despite rising raw materials costs which continued to affect its other businesses.

BEST BANK. CIMB Bank Philippines is awarded as the Best Bank in Emerging Markets-Philippines by Global Brands Magazine—a testament to the bank’s CIMB’s mission of serving unbanked and underserved Filipinos and empowering them to pursue their life’s purpose. Global Brands Magazine is a leading publication headquartered in the United Kingdom that provides opinions, reviews and news related to brands across the world. CIMB Bank PH was selected based on its exemplary performance, customer-centric approach and ability to navigate the dynamic landscape of emerging markets.

ACEN, through subsidiaries AC Subic Solar, AC Laguna Solar, SolarACE4 Energy, Ingrid Power and GigaWind 1 received notices of award from LLDA in July following an invitation to develop floating solar renewable energy projects on Laguna Lake.

LLDA asked renewable energy developers to lease up to 2,000 hectares

Francia said Laguna Lake addresses the need for large parcels of land needed by solar developers.

“The lake is so large that you don’t compete necessarily. The fishing activities in Laguna Lake do not require too large an area, so that there’s enough space, enough room within that 90,000 hectares for co-use between floating solar, fishing, transportation and so forth,” he said.

Cebu Pacific removes expiry date of travel funds, extends validity of travel vouchers

By Darwin G. Amojelar

CEBU Pacific said Tuesday its travel funds would no longer have an expiration date to provide passengers with better travel experiences.

The airline unit of the Gokongwei Group also extended the validity of travel vouchers to 18 months from

six months. This allows passengers more time to use them for booking flights.

Cebu Pacific said the latest initiative highlights its commitment to listening to passengers and adapting its services to meet the evolving travel needs.

By putting customers’ convenience and satisfaction at the forefront, the

airline is steadfast in maintaining its position as a customer-centric airline, it said.

“The improvements in our customer care policies, especially the non-expiry of our travel fund, are a testament to our commitment to our passengers and our promise to keep listening and improving,” said Cebu Pacific chief

marketing and customer experience officer Candice Iyog.

“With these enhancements, we hope to make air travel even more accessible to every Juan,” she said.

Cebu Pacific flies to 35 domestic and 23 international destinations, spanning across Asia, Australia and the Middle East.

“We’re greatly encouraged by the sustained growth we are seeing across most of our businesses. While there are challenges, we’re confident in the programs we have put in place to address them,” SMC president and chief executive Ramon Ang said in statement.

“We are also keeping our focus on executing on our projects, implementing our growth strategies, and providing our customers the high-quality service they expect from San Miguel,” Ang said.

San Miguel Food and Beverage Inc. booked consolidated revenues of P184.6 billion in the first six months, up 7 percent year-on-year, driven by better selling prices across its beer, spirits and food divisions. Consolidated operating income dropped 13 percent to P23 billion, as the food division continued to face rising raw material costs.

Net income of power generation unit San Miguel Global Power Holdings Corp. reached P5.9 billion, more than four times higher than last year’s due partly to the appreciation of the peso this year. Jenniffer B. Austria

By Alena Mae S. Flores

on

Eggesvik promises to get better, stay hungry

STAY hungry and get better. These are some of the lessons that Filipinas midfielder Sara Eggesvik learned during her time with the Philippine National Women’s Football Team in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in New Zealand.

Former coach Alen Stajcic has instilled this attitude into Eggesvik, a Norwegian-Filipina, who had memorable games with the Filipinas.

“We have a lot to learn. Maybe, some things I remember is always be hungry, like always wanting to get better,” said Eggesvik.

The 26-year-old Eggesvik got the admiration of fans in the Philippines’s second Group A match against New Zealand.

Eggesvik made an assist for the Philippines’ first World Cup goal from Sarina Bolden in the 24th minute of the match, after Angela Beard started a big play with a long pass from the right side.

Under Stajcic, the Filipinas have evolved into serious contenders following their team’s qualification to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 last January 2022.

The Filipinas went on to get involved in other historic moments when the team clinched the bronze medal in the 31st Southeast Asian Games in Vietnam in May 2022.

After that, the Filipinas won the AFF Women’s Championship in July 2022.

For now, the Filipinas now await their new coach, which will take on the role that Stajcic has left behind.

PSC seeks bigger budget in ‘24 for athletes, facilities

By Peter Atencio

mann following his discussions with lawmakers in Congress and Senate last week.

The agency will have a new Executive Director in Paolo Francisco Tatad to help run the daily activities of the PSC.

Corporate Social Responsibility, Para Sports, Laro’t Saya, and the Philippine National Games.

THE first practice sessions of Jordan Clarkson and members of the Gilas Pilipinas national men’s basketball team will happen on Wednesday at the Meralco Gym.

Clarkson and the Gilas squad arrived in the country separately on Tuesday.

The Utah Jazz star and his entourage planed into Manila in an early morning flight.

Later in the afternoon, the Chot Reyes-coached Philippine team came home, just hours after Gilas pulled off a 63-48 victory over an Iran B Team to finish its campaign in the 2023 Heyuan WUS International Basketball Tournament on Sunday at Xiaoqing Sport Center with three wins and a loss.

With Clarkson around, Gilas will have 16 days more to prepare for the 2023 FIBA World Cup, where the Philippines takes on Dominican Republic in its first game on August 25.

The Philippines is bunched with with the Dominican Republic, Angola and Italy in Group A.

“I think we got a good chance,” said Clarkson on the Philippines’ bracketing.

During the final stretch of its preparations, Gilas will have a pair of friendlies with Mexico and Montenegro.

Clarkson last played for Gilas in August last year during Window 5 of the Asian Qualifiers.

Members of the Gilas pool who went to Xiaoqing were June Mar Fajardo, Japeth Aguilar, Kiefer Ravena, CJ Perez, Roger Pogoy, Dwight Ramos, Bobby Ray Parks Jr., Chris Newsome, Calvin Oftana, Thirdy Ravena, Rhenz Abando, and AJ Edu.

NBA hopeful Kai Sotto is also expected join the Gilas practices this week. Peter Atencio

PSC chairman Richard Bachmann is keeping his fingers crosses that Congress and the Senate will approve his efforts to have more funds for Filipino athletes, from P2.2 billion this year to P4 billion in 2024.

The funds will help the PSC improve the facilities that it is managing -- the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila, the Philsports Complex in Pasig City and the National Teachers area in Baguio City.

“With this year’s budget, nothing went to facilities. All went to events and programs,” said Bach-

Tatad is coming in to replace Atty. Guillermo Iroy, who stepped down during a revamp in the government sports agency.

Tatad, who used to be part of ABSCBN’s Human Resources department, will help the PSC streamline its activities.

“For the past years, he (Iroy) gladly stepped in as acting ED. Now that we have a complete lineup, we can move forward,” said PSC chairman Richard Bachmann.

The PSC is currently taking care of 10 programs, which includes Women in Sports, Indigenous Peoples Games,

Olivarez gets back at Arcilla, duels

ERIC Jed Olivarez finally put one over top seed Johnny Arcilla, hacking out a 6-3, 6-3 victory even as Charles Kinaadman dispatched Alexis Acabo, 6-3, 6-1, in the semifinal round of the Rep. Edward Hagedorn Open National Tennis Championships at the Karawatan PPS Playground in Puerto Princesa, Palawan on Tuesday.

Olivarez practically wore down the 43-year-old Arcilla in a baseline duel on a fast surface, breaking him right in the second game of the opening set and fighting back from a bungled service turn in the fifth with another break in the sixth. The fifth-ranked ace then held serve twice to seize control.

Arcilla, who beat Olivarez twice in the finals to sweep the Lanao Open series last month, traded serves in the first six games in the second set but dropped the seventh in shutout fashion and Olivarez went on a held-break finish to complete the victory and dethrone the multi-titled campaigner.

The third-ranked Kinaadman, on the other hand, cut short Acabo’s surge with

also

The agency is also developing its programs in the Philippine Sports Institute, the Philippine Sports Training Center and the Regional Training Centers.

Bachmann said the agency is now getting ready for the staging of the 2023 Philippine National Games and the Batang Pinoy National Championships.

No venue has been set yet for the games slated from Dec. 17 to 22. Twenty disciplines will initially make up the list of events which will be part of the meet.

This includes archery, arnis, athletics, badminton, basketball, 3x3 basketball, boxing, chess, cycling, dancesport, esport, gymnastics, karatedo, lawn tennis and sepak takraw.

Kinaadman in final

frame to match Olivarez’s straight-set romp in the Group A tournament presented by Dunlop.

Olivarez and Kinaadman dispute the crown and the top P50,000 purse at 4 p.m. tomorrow (Thursday) in a clash of doubles partners.

The pair likewise led the semifinal cast in the men’s doubles as they routed Jelic Amazona and Jude Ceniza, 6-1, 6-4, to seal a clash with Pague and John Sonsona, who held off Dave Mosqueda and Eric Tangub, 6-3, 6-3. Arcilla and Nilo Ledama foiled Acabo and Noel Salupado, 6-7(5), 6-3, 10-5, to arrange a face-off with Vicente Anasta and Fritz Bernaldes, who subdued Randy Delavin and Andre Santos, 6-4, 6-2.

Maria Pague, 6-2, 4-6,, 10-2, in the Last 16 phase, twice in the second

On their way to the finals of the event, sponsored by Rep. Edward Hagedorn and held under the PPS-PEPP program put up by Palawan Pawnshop president/CEO Bobby Castro, Olivarez eased past Yves Balingit, 6-1, 6-2, and Brent Cortes, 6-1, 6-1, then repulsed Mosqueda, 6-3, 6-4, before stopping Arclla’s run of Open romps.

PLDT, Smart promote camaraderie among FIBA World Cup nations

AS the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 opening day nears, PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications, Inc. gathered dignitaries and heads of embassies and consulates in the Philippines to promote camaraderie among nations in the most anticipated global sports event this year.

“We are grateful to be able to come together to celebrate the upcoming FIBA World Cup 2023. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that we can host the world’s biggest stage in basketball alongside Japan and Indonesia,” said Alfredo S. Panlilio, PLDT and Smart President and CEO and head of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 local organizing committee.

“The FIBA World Cup goes beyond basketball: it is about the heart and capabilities of all participating countries, and our ability to bring honor to our nations. We are eager to showcase our countrymen’s love for the sport and promote Filipino hospitality, while promoting the sportsmanship and culture of the countries that will play here in the Philippines,” he added.

Dignitaries and special guests representing 25 countries attended the event hosted by PLDT Enterprise in

Makati City. The event also served as an opportunity for the Philippine government, represented by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Foreign Affairs Senior Special Assistant Alex Lamadrid, to present the plans of the government to support this global event.

“The Filipinos’ love for basketball is well-known all over the world. That love is evident in all islands across the Philippines because basketball is strongly woven into our cultural fabric. The FIBA World Cup also gives opportunities for Filipinos themselves to show their love for country, because what we will see is a great sense of nationalism in cheering for the Philippine team. This nationalism which will be replicated throughout the citizens of the world whom we are very eager to welcome to the country as we host the World Cup,” said Secretary Frasco.

“The Department of Foreign Affairs, for its part, will continue to pursue and take advantage of the universal appeal of sports in bringing people together, to bridge cultural or social differences, and bring more cooperation in the spirit of mutual benefit and development,” said Senior Special Assistant Lamadrid.

THE Philippine Sports Commission seeks to have a bigger budget next year.

The Philippines’ mid elder Sara Eggesvik (left) ghts for the ball with New Zealand’s defender Catherine Bott (right) during their teams’ 2023 Women’s World Cup Group A football match at Wellington Stadium, also known as Sky Stadium, in Wellington. ERggesvik was one of the Philippines’ biggest performers in the tournament. AFP

Richard Bachmann

a break in the fifth game of the first set then repeated the feat in the ninth to take command. The Lapu-Lapu City native

broke Acabo, who stunned second seed Jose

Chairman MVP with FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 mascot “JIP”, whose name represents the three host nations of Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines

Jordan Clarkson

Rodtang vs. Superlek for ONE Friday Fights 34

THE biggest Muay Thai showdown in the world is finally set to take place this September after a massive announcement from ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong this past Sunday.

ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon finally takes on ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Champion Superlek “The Kicking Machine” Kiatmoo9 for the former’s belt at ONE Friday Fights 34 on 22 September inside Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

No.1s Alcaraz, Swiatek named top seeds at Cincinnati tilt

CINCINNATI—World number ones Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek, the reigning US Open champions, were named Monday as the top seeds for next week’s WTA and ATP Cincinnati Masters tournament.

The tournament is the last major hardcourt tuneup event for this year’s US Open, the final Grand Slam showdown of the year that begins on August 28.

The top 16 players in the men’s and women’s world rankings were named Cincinnati seeds with the top eight receiving byes into the second round.

Alcaraz is coming off his second Grand Slam crown last month at Wimbledon. The 20-year-old Spaniard is also the top seed in this week’s ATP hardcourt event at Toronto.

Swiatek, a 22-year-old from Poland, won her third French Open crown earlier this year and will try to match her back-to-back titles on the red clay at Roland Garros with back-to-back titles on the New York hardcourts.

Serbian star Novak Djokovic, owner of a record 23 men’s Grand Slam titles after capturing this year’s French and Australian Opens, will be the second seed at Cincinnati, where he is a two-time champion and five-time runner-up.

Daniil Medvedev, the 2019 winner, is seeded third on the men’s side.

Reigning Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka is the women’s second seed followed by American Jessica Pegula, Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan and Tunisia’s Ons

England, Australia make World Cup quarterfinals

BRISBANE—England survived the sending-off of Lauren James to scrape past Nigeria in a penalty shootout on Monday and were joined in the Women’s World Cup quarter-finals by co-hosts Australia.

European champions England will play either Colombia or Jamaica in the last eight on Saturday, but they got there the hard way

England survived the sending-off of Lauren James to scrape past Nigeria in a penalty shoot-out on Monday and were joined in the Women’s World Cup quarterfinals by co-hosts Australia.

European champions England will play either Colombia or Jamaica in the last eight on Saturday, but they got there the hard way.

Chloe Kelly scored the winning penalty in Brisbane as England beat Nigeria 4-2 in the shoot-out after a tense last-16 tie finished 0-0 at the end of extra time.

England had a major scare before a crowd of 49,461, having come through the whole of extra time a player short following the 87th-minute sending-off of James for a stamp on Nigeria’s Michelle Alozie.

Coach Sarina Wiegman, who welcomed key midfielder Keira Walsh back into her side after injury, called it “a very, very hard game”.

“How we did that and how the team just kept going, I’m so proud of them,” said Wiegman, whose side are regarded as favourites to take the crown from beaten holders the United States.

Georgia Stanway put the first penalty of the shoot-out wide for England, but Desire Oparanozie and Alozie followed suit, both missing the target with Nigeria’s first two attempts.

Beth England, Rachel Daly and Alex Greenwood all scored for England before Kelly converted the decisive kick.

“It’s amazing, anything that’s thrown at us we show what we’re capable of,” said the Manchester City forward Kelly, who scored the winning goal in last year’s European Championship final.

“We’ve been practising (penalties) a lot and it’s working.”

The defeat was cruel on Nigeria, the world’s 40th-ranked team, who followed up their impressive performances in the group stage by pushing England all the way.

Their England-born defender Ashleigh Plumptre crashed a shot off the woodwork in the first half and Uchenna Kanu also hit the frame of the goal.

However, this was the third game out of four at this World Cup in which Nigeria failed to score. AFP

This is a fight that has long been a fantasy of fight fans around the world, especially with the dominance that both Rodtang and Superlek have over their respective sports.

Rodtang is currently 14-0 under ONE Championship’s striking rule sets, having ran through everyone he’s faced in Muay Thai and kickboxing since making his promotional debut in 2018.

Superlek, on the other hand, is on a seven bout winning streak in the promotion and is 9-1 overall. He’s been on a warpath as of late, finishing his last three opponents in impressive fashion.

This match was actually supposed to take place early this year, but Rodtang had to pull out because of an injury, adding more excitement to this titanic clash between two of the biggest names in the world of Muay Thai today.

This long-awaited matchup further amplifies ONE’s fiery second half of the year, which will also see Ham Seo Hee and Stamp Fairtex slug it out for the ONE Interim Atomweight World Title at the historic ONE Fight Night 14 on 30 September.

A week later, it will be another all-Thai showdown when the redhot Tawanchai PK Saenchai defends his ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Title against Superbon Singha Mawynn at ONE Fight Night 15 on October 6.

La Salle, Adamson clash for Shakey’s volley tiara

LA Salle attempts to zero in on capturing another crown, while Adamson is out to try usher in a new era in flying colors as they lock horns in the opening salvo of the 2023 Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals finale Wednesday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

Action erupts at 4 p.m. with the Lady Spikers and the Lady Falcons racing to draw first blood in the short best-of-three finals to move on the cusp of being the first national champion of the SSL presented by Eurotel as the official hotel and Victory Liner as office transport provider, and in cooperation with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

At 2 p.m, the University of Santo Tomas and and University of Per-

Games on Wednesday (Filoil EcoOil Centre, San Juan) 2 p.m. - UPHSD vs UST (bronze medal)

p.m. - AdU vs DLSU (finals)

petual Help System Dalta tie knot in the bronze-medal match, also under a best-of-three format.

Expectedly, the proven and tested La Salle as the reigning UAAP queen under the tutelage of Ramil de Jesus marches into battle as the heavy favorites but Adamson, the UAAP third-placer, beams with confidence under new mentor JP Yude after an impressive run so far.

The Lady Spikers, sans UAAP Rookie-MVP Angel Canino, swept their way into the Final Four before needing five sets to tame the UST while the Lady Fal-

cons have yet to drop a single set in the entire 12-team SSL tourney, including a sweep of Perpetual in the other semis pairing.

Aside from Canino, La Salle is also without ace libero Justine Jazareno while dealing with the graduation of Jolina dela Cruz, Mars Alba and Fifi Sharma. Adamson, for its part, lost a bevy of players led Trisha Tubu and Kate Santiago to the pros.

But even with a different cast, both squads are raring to empty their clips for a 1-0 lead in the nationwide tilt that featured 12 bets from the NCR, Luzon,

Bacoor edges Bacolod; Rizal, Marikina defeat rivals

BACOOR wasted a big lead and settled for a 91-86 victory over Bacolod in the OKBet-MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) Fifth Season on Monday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.

Way ahead, 74-50, late in the third quarter, the Strikers got complacent and allowed the Bacolodnons to threaten at 86-88 following a 19-5 run capped by a Ryusei Koga triple with 1 minute and 18 seconds left.

Bacolod couldn’t score after that, however, and Bacoor sealed its 18th win against four losses with split charities by Aaron Jeruta and two free throws by James Kwekuteye.

Veteran Chito Jaime finished with 15 points, 12 in the third quarter, to earn best player honors for Bacoor, which also drew 11 points each from Michael Canete and Kwekuteye.

Bacolod, which tumbled to 9-14, got 22

points plus 9 rebounds from Mark Sarangay, 14 from John Cantimbuhan, 12 from Koga and 10 from homegrown Alfred Sedillo.

Rizal Xentromall also gained traction with a 77-71 triumph over Sarangani in the nightcap of another elimination round triple bill of the 29-team tournament.

The Golden Coolers leaned on Jeric James Pido to and Alvin John Capobres to fend off the Marlins and remain in playoff contention with an 11-13 slate.

Pido fired five of his 15 points in the last 2 minutes and 9 seconds, including the insurance charities with 18 seconds left, and added 9 rebounds and 4 assists as Rizal pulled down Sarangani to 9-14.

Capobres, whose basket cooled Sarangani’s rally, 74-69, ended up with 14 points, followed by Troy Mallillin with 12 points plus 9 rebounds.

Darangani got 21 points plus rebounds from

Roland Are and 11 points plus 6 assists from Jeff Comia.

The Marikina Shoemasters battered the Bicol Volcanoes, 100-59, in the opener to sustain their rise in the standings.

With its sixth straight win, Marikina climbed to 13-10 and handed cellar-dweller Bicol its 22nd loss against only one win.

Lanky Jason Strait led Marikina with 16 points plus 8 rebounds, followed by Marwin Dionisio with 14 points plus 6 rebounds, Felipe Chavez with 13 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists and homegrown Silas Zabale and Raymond Casajeros with 10 points each.

The MPBL visits the Nueva Ecija Coliseum in Palayan City on Tuesday with Bataan tackling Laguna at 4 p.m., Quezon Province battling Valenzuela at 6 p.m., and Pasig testing Nueva Ecija at 8 p.m.

Visayas and Mindanao with support from Mikasa, Team Rebel Sports, Summit Bottled Water, Genius Sports, Potato Corner, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken and Sauce Bar, and R&B Tea.

APPOINTMENT. Federation of School Sports Association of the Philippines president Edwin C. Fabro (4th from left) has appointed Gerardo Sergio (3rd from left), athletic director of De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, as Director of Region IV for FESSAP Sports Activities, such as the Qualifying Tournament to the Philippine University Basketball League and Philippine University Volleyball League, a qualifying tournament to the Asean University Games in Surabaya, Indonesia in July, 2024. Others in photo are (from left) student-athlete

Al Quiza of Mapua University, FESSAP CEO/ Secretary General Graham C. Lim, PISSA Secretary General Joseph Sy and FESSAP Executive Secretary Cecil Sarmiento. The appointment ceremony was held at the Universiade Athletes’ Village in Chengdu, China.

Chloe Kelly FIFA

La Salle players celebrate.

THE mystery genre's rich history in literature, TV, and film engages audiences with puzzles and intriguing characters, giving rise to sub-genres like noir, supernatural, and psychological thrillers.

Whodunit stories explore human complexity, motives behind crimes, and the psychology of criminals and investigators, providing satisfying comfort.

Exciting Filipino audiences, PLDT Home and Lionsgate Play offer affordable access to Hollywood and global mystery content. From July 1, existing PLDT Home customers can exclusively enjoy it for just P79 a month.

As the weather cools, dive into the top three mysteries on Lionsgate Play to satisfy your bingewatching cravings and enjoy the deduction journey.

1. The Rising

In the British supernatural series, murder victim Neve Kelly (Clara Rugaard) observes her own autopsy and seeks help to unmask her killer.

Throughout the season, Neve investigates similar cases and confronts a chilling local myth. The show delves into justice, jealousy, revenge, and obsession, exploring the darker aspects of human nature.

Clara's character takes center stage as a heroic figure in this story of complex characters, gripping motocross sequences, and stunning northern English landscapes. The series blends themes of love,

ENTERTAINMENT

Sandara Park announces collab with SB19

OVER the weekend, K-Pop star Sandara Park expressed her desire to collaborate with local pop superstar Sarah

Geronimo

"I want to, I really want to. But for now, my collaboration is set with SB19. It's scheduled for Christmas, so watch out for it. I'm eagerly anticipating it," Sandara said.

In response, Sarah G said she also wanted to collaborate with the 2NE1 member.

The two shared the stage alongside host Robi Domingo and love team of Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano during Acer’s Ace Your World concert held at the Mall of Asia Arena. The group talked about their experience being celebrity ambassadors of the brand.

Domingo Pangilinan experience being celebrity ambassadors of includ

The event was a double celebration as Acer Philippines marked Acer Day 2023 and its 20th anniversary. Apart from Sarah G, Sandara, and DonBelle, a powerhouse cast of artists also graced the stage including Sunkissed Lola, December Avenue, Zach Tabudlo, Sponge Cola, Mayonnaise, Ben&Ben, and Ely Buendia. Predator Gaming brand ambassadors also joined in on the fun, and Acer treated concertgoers to many activities where they got to take home prizes such as Acer products.

“We chose a line-up that Filipinos of different generations will enjoy so everyone can watch the concert and have a great time,” said Acer Philippines Senior Marketing Manager Princess Laosantos. It was a full house at the SM MOA Arena and on Facebook, with an estimated 15,000 attendees watching in person and online.

Sarah G., who opened the concert performed two songs “Cuore” and “Alam.” For her part, Sandara, together with the GForce Dancers, sang “Festival,” the lead single to her self-titled solo debut mini album. It was her first time performing the song live before a Philippine audience. She also performed “T Map,” “In or Out,” and “I Am the Best.”

The country’s favorite young love team DonBelle brought kilig to the concert with

a duet of the song “Byahe” by John Roa

Although currently on their world tour, kings of P-pop SB19 prepared a video greeting to their Acer family.

Sunkissed Lola kept the ball rolling with “Pasilyo,” “Pakisabi,” “Damag,” and “Makalimutan Ka.” pop-alternative rock group December Avenue followed up with their hit songs, “Kahit ‘Di Mo Alam,” “Bulong,” “Dahan,” “Eroplanong Papel,” “Ilang Beses Kita Mamahalin?,” “Wala Nang Iba,” “Huling Sandali,” “Kung ‘Di Rin Lang Ikaw,” “Saksi Ang Langit,” and “Sa Ngalan Ng Pag-Ibig.”

Next up was rock band Mayonnaise, who delighted the audience with “Bakit Pt. 2,” “Synesthesia,” “Kapag Lasing Malambing,” “Tayo Na Lang Dalawa,” and “Jopay.” Filipino singer-songwriter Zach Tabudlo brought the house down with three of his hits— “Give me your forever,” “Pano,” and “Binibini.”

Finally, Sponge Cola took the stage with “Pasubali,” “Tuliro,” “Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay,” “Kunwari,” “Bitiw,” and a special rendition of “Jeepney,” and “Puso.”

Gen Z favorite Ben&Ben gave the crowd eight songs, including “Ride Home,” “Sa Susunod na Habang Buhay,” “Leaves,” “Kathang Isip,” “Pagtingin,” “Araw-araw,” “Maybe the Night,” and “Paninindigan Kita.”

To end the evening on a high, Ely Buendia took the stage with iconic Eraserhead songs, “Alapaap,” “Toyang,” “Pare Ko,” “Spolarium,” “Ligaya,” “Magasin,” “Superproxy,” “With a Smile,” and “Huling El Bimbo.”

“This concert is not just an anniversary celebration but a way for Acer to give back to the community by staging a memorable event that brings all the hottest musical acts in town,” said Sue Ong-Lim, Acer Philippines General Manager.

Suga third BTS member to enlist in South Korean military service

A third member of K-pop megastars BTS has begun the process of enlisting in South Korea's mandatory military service, the band's agency said Monday. All able-bodied men in South Korea must serve at least 18 months in the military and, after a years-long debate about whether BTS deserved an exemption, Jin, the oldest member of the group, enlisted last year,

family, self-discovery, and adolescence with a bold aesthetic and supernatural intrigue.

2. One Ranger The 2023 film starring Thomas Jane, John Malkovich, and Dominique Tipper, merges British Intelligence and Texas Justice.

In this intense actionthriller, a Texas ranger pursues a bank robber turned international terrorist across the desert. The target: a bomb set to explode in London. After losing his partner, the ranger teams up with a British intelligence agent and her superior to bring the criminal to justice.

Thomas Jane highlights the characters' realism in a Movie Web interview, portraying them as relatable individuals dedicated to making the world better through their Texas Ranger roles.

3. Gray

Upcoming on LionsgatePlay, Gray features Rupert Everett and Patricia Clarkson. Clarkson portrays Cornelia Gray, a CIA spy returning after two decades in hiding, who uncovers a fresh mole within her former spy network.

This series promises excitement, as espionage narratives draw inspiration from real-world events and political figures. Known for delivering adrenalinepumping suspense from the clandestine realm of spies, "Gray" is sure to captivate.

bandmate J-Hope in April.

"We would like to inform our fans that SUGA has initiated the military enlistment process by applying for the termination of his enlistment postponement," HYBE said in a statement.

"We ask you for your continued love and support for SUGA until he completes his military service and safely returns," it added, without providing further details.

followed by his provid

Before the band went on a hiatus in June last year, BTS bagged six No. 1 hits on the Hot 100 chart and all seven members of the boyband have reached the top of the charts with solo tracks, Billboard said.

Since their debut in 2013, BTS have been credited with generating billions of dollars for their country, as well as boosting the image and soft power of South Korea -- now a global cultural powerhouse. They have been invited to speak at the United Nations, and to meet US President Joe Biden at the White House. Earlier this year, the chairman of the septet's agency, Bang Si-hyuk, said that making BTS do their military service was slowing the global growth of K-pop. The global K-pop market "narrows significantly when BTS is taken out", he said, adding "the continuity of a person's career or their value as a national asset is damaged" by enlisting in the military. South Korea offers exemptions from military service to people including Olympic medal winning athletes and some classical musicians, but K-Pop musicians are not eligible under the existing program. AFP

dela Torre tackles self love, starting anew in magazine feature

Moira

OPM sensation Moira Dela Torre opens up about her feelings in a dialogue centered around self-love, rediscovery, and embarking on a fresh journey, showcased in her first solo fashion cover feature for Metro.

Style This moment holds significance as she commemorates a decade since her appearance on The Voice Philippines. She has gracefully traversed global boundaries with her inaugural world tour and achieved remarkable feats in the realm of music, not only within her local sphere but also on an international scale. After braving through many

storms, this is the first time she has spoken in public.

“There was something about this past year that just changed and I thought the change was going to look different but it was actually a change that wasn’t so bad,” she opened up during her one-on-one interview with Metro.Style She may have topped more charts in her lifetime than the years in her life combined, but she has always been the reserved type.

“I’ve always been shy, even now. I’ve always been an introvert and I think my confidence never really came out until this

tour,” Moira revealed. With almost five million active monthly listeners and more or less 10 million followers on Spotify and hits like “Tagpuan,” “Paubaya,” and “Ikaw at Ako” under her belt, Moira is undoubtedly making an impact as an artist. Her heartbreaking tunes heeded the people’s collective pain, and in turn, she was tagged as the “Hugot Queen” of today’s time. When asked what she feels about the moniker, she said, “It was never my goal to be ‘Hugot Queen’ so I’m not very affected by it. I just want to write. I just want to express. I just want to make music.”

Fashion magazine Metro.Style features OPM singer Moira Dela Torre

Korean idol Sandara Park performs her latest single, ‘Festival’, during the Acer Day 2023

Belle Mariano (left) and Donny Pangilinan (right) delight fans with a duet

Popstar royalty Sarah Geronimo

From left: Acer Day 2023 special guests Donny Pangilinan, Belle Mariano, Sandara Park, and Sarah Geronimo

Suga of Korean supergroup BTS

Action-thriller film ‘One Ranger’

Clara Ruugard (right) stars as Neve Kelly who investigates the cause of her death

Former 2NE1 member Sandara treats her Filipino fans to energetic performances

Lydia West (left) and Patricia

Clarkson (right) in a scene from

3 top whodunit thrillers to binge this gloomy season

Nickie Wang Editor Angelica Villanueva , Writer

A timeless tribute

to the elegance and humanity of Audrey Hepburn

By Nickie Wang

to documentation of her personal life. It includes works and pieces from Pepito Albert, Ivar Aseron, Vic Barba, Mike Dela Rosa, JC Buendia, Len Cabili, Auggie Cordero, Rhett Eala, Jun Escario, Ben Farrales, Cesar Gaupo, Rajo Laurel, Jojie Lloren, Dennis Lustico, Randy Ortiz, Frederick Peralta, Puey Quiñones, Patrice RamosDiaz, Philip Rodriguez, Cary Santiago and National Artists Salvacion Lim-Higgins and Ramon Valera.

Sean, the curator of Audrey’s legacy, graces the vernissage in Manila alongside her granddaughter, Emma Hepburn Ferrer. FashX, a fashion

trade and licensing company in the Philippines, has partnered with the country’s leading retail chain SM Supermalls, to hold this first-in-Asia exhibition of Intimate Audrey running until October 29. Exhibition tickets are available online via SM Tickets and at all SM Ticket offline locations such as SM Department Stores and SM Cinemas. Exhibition access is priced at P850.00 with a special rate of P450.00 for students, senior citizens, PWDs, national athletes, and medal of valor awardees, and allows access to the 730 square meter space for one hour and a half per visit.

IN a symphony of elegance and nostalgia, the world has been gifted an ethereal experience that reverently weaves together the tapestry of Hepburn’s life.

Entitled Intimate Audrey, the exhibit at The Museum at S Maison at the Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City stands as a living tribute orchestrated by the hands of her own son, Sean Hepburn Ferrer commemorating what would have been the Hollywood icon’s 90th birthday.

, Neth-

Originally launched in her birth town of Brussels, Belgium, the exhibition made a stop in her home country of the Neth erlands (Amsterdam) where she spent the war year. The exhibition includes over 800 photographs, memorabilia, dresses and accessories, as well as her never before seen fashion drawings and humanitarian writings. A series of poignant videos bring each of its chapter to life.

Audrey

taments to her unparalleled elegance. Accessories, meticulously curated, tell tales of a life lived with refined flair.

Yet, in this symphony of heritage, the crescendo of revelation comes in her hitherto concealed fashion sketches and humanitarian prose. These fragments of her soul, unfurled in ink and sentiment, cast a vivid light on the depths of her passions and convictions. Videos, poignant

Am-

Within these hallowed halls of The Museum, an arresting array of memorabil ia glimmers, each artifact whispering tales of Audrey’s radiant presence. But it is the dresses, those timeless garments that once graced her graceful form, that stand as tes

vignettes of her life, thread seamlessly through the exhibition, breathing life into each chapter, invoking her spirit to wander once again among us. Part of the Intimate Audrey experience in Manila and a unique addition to the execution that was last on display in Am sterdam, is an exclusive tribute called drety: An Homage from Filipino Fashion.

drety: An Homage from Filipino Fashion.

memorabilthose tes-

This section highlights the works of some of the Philippines’ most celebrated designers and how each one of them took inspiration from Audrey Hepburn’s films

Milflores publishes Azcuna, Biazon bios

MILFLORES Publishing, led by Attorney Andrea Pasion-Flores, has recently published two noteworthy biographies that will interest anyone who wants to discover more about the lives of prominent personalities who helped shape Filipino law and society.

Rodolfo Biazon: Soldier, Solon, Statesman is the official biography of a soldier who later became a senator and fulfilled his life’s mission to uphold democracy in our republic.

tion for overcoming hardships and doing one’s duty in the face of inexorable challenges. He was his family’s sole breadwinner when his father died. His sister Norma said: “As a teenager, Kuya Boy [Biazon] did not have a normal life. At a time when boys his age would enjoy the company of friends in the neighborhood and classmates in school, he was always at home doing laundry work, or on the streets selling newspapers or cigarettes and, much later, doing construction work.”

A visit to ‘The Wisdom of Da Vinci’ includes a mesmerizing exploration of ‘Poetic AI’ and ‘Da Vinci & The Master’ that delve into the artistic and technical dimensions of Da Vinci’s genius

Empowering creativity through tech with ‘Wisdom of Da Vinci’ AI experience

GLOBE, in collaboration with Ouchhh Studios, Fort Bonifacio Development Corporation (FBDC), and LivePH, presents a groundbreaking exhibition that channels the spirit of innovation through technology.

Titled Wisdom of Da Vinci: An Immersive AI Experience,” brings visitors into the inventive mind of Leonardo Da Vinci. Guests are in for a thrilling journey through interactive spaces, mesmerizing stroboscopic effects, innovative QR code activations that bring his artworks to life, and a breathtaking allencompassing 360-degree soundscape that resonates with Da Vinci’s creative genius.

The Wisdom of Da Vinci unfolds across two captivating chapters: “Poetic AI” and “Da Vinci & The Masters.” These chapters offer a mesmerizing exploration of both the artistic and technical dimensions of Da Vinci’s genius.

Marked by its grand unveiling on August 2, the exhibition is set to remain open until October 31, captivating audiences at the 3rd floor of One Bonifacio High Street in the vibrant Bonifacio Global City. This is a rare opportunity for visitors to delve into the mind of one of history’s greatest innovators, all brought to life through the seamless fusion of art and cutting-edge technology.

“Our involvement in the Wisdom of Da Vinci experience is more than just sponsorship. It’s a testament to our belief in the limitless potential of creativity when fused with technology. We hope

this immersive experience serves as an inspiration for all types of creators, fostering a culture of innovation and artistic exploration,” said Pia Gonzalez-Colby, Globe Chief Marketing Officer.

Globe’s major participation in the exhibition extends its ongoing effort to nurture the creator culture community in the Philippines. It believes that creativity is accessible to everyone, and with the right use of technology, the possibilities are endless.

The company continues to champion and cultivate creativity in all its forms, whether in artists employing Artificial Intelligence (AI), freelance digital marketers, or community builders. As the Philippines’ Most Reliable Network, it is also dedicated to transforming and enhancing lives through cutting-edge technology and by continuing to enhance its robust network using pioneering technologies, particularly in 5G.

Most recently, it unveiled 5G-connected robots and held successful pilot tests of 5G stand alone technology across various use cases, including cloud gaming, augmented reality, and video surveillance, among others. The brand also recently won the Best 5G Video Experience and Leader in 5G Gaming Experience mobile awards.

Tickets to the immersive exhibit can be purchased at https://bgcimmersive. com. Regular passes are available at P975, Student Passes at P780, and Special Discount Passes for Seniors and Persons With Disabilities are priced at P695.

The 308-page book, written by screenplay writer and lifestyle journalist Eric Ramos, traces Biazon’s life from his poverty-stricken childhood in Cavite to his later life as a respected elder statesman, who even in his last years stayed on point to defend the West Philippine Sea through dialogues with fellow lawmakers.

According to Senator Risa Hontiveros: “[Senator Biazon] is a true patriot who, when summoned by Inang Bayan, answers the call of duty. It is as if the WPS has its own honor guard, patrolling and standing by, no matter the odds.”

Ramos’ storytelling is fluid and enjoyable, and accessible to a wider audience. He had the privilege of speaking to Biazon himself over the course of writing the book, which was launched a month after the senator’s death on June 12 this year.

Biazon’s story serves as an inspira-

After a difficult year as a working student at Feati University, Biazon realized his dream of entering the Philippine Military Academy, turning down a chance to go to the U.S. with a diplomat’s family (who wanted to adopt him), an opportunity to join the U.S. Navy, and travel to Australia to take a forestry course. His choices put him on the path to leadership – and the rest, as they say, is history.

* * *

Silver is My Gold: An Alchemy of My Life by the Principle of Magis is a memoir by Adolfo S. Azcuna, who served as an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines.

A consistent honors student at the Ateneo de Manila University (thus the ‘magis’ in the title, which in Latin means ‘more’ but for the Atenean means ‘the greater good’), Azcuna once wanted to become a priest but his fate took

him to the law and government. He divided his book into three parts: Preparation (Paghahanda), Profession (Panawagan), and Presentation (Paghahandog). The 80-year-old author wrote in his preface that this is the framework of his life so far, and uses it in this book to “capture the essence of these encounters with fellow humans and the Divine in the midst of pursuing a dedication to service above self.”

Azcuna was born in Zamboanga in 1939. His father was a lawyer and his mother was a school teacher from Luzon. Amid idyllic surroundings in the “quiet and sleepy” town of Katipunan and later in Sinuti, Misamis Occidental – “a magical place” – Azcuna spent a wonderful childhood even in the midst of the Second World War. Read full column article on manilastandard.net

‘Intimate Audrey’ features over 800 photographs, memorabilia, dresses, and accessories of Audrey Hepburn

Exclusive in Manila, Audrey: An Homage from Filipino Fashion’ highlights the works of some of the Philippines’ most celebrated designers

The exhibit serves as Sean Hepburn Ferrera’s tribute to Audrey Hepburn’s 90th birthday

senator

First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos (left) with SM Investments Corporation Vice Chairperson Teresita Sy-Coson (right)

From left: Irene Marcos, Joanne De Asis-Benitez, and Anna Sobrepeña

SM Prime Holdings Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy

Hollywood icon Audrey Hepburn