Manila Standard - 2023 August 13 - Sunday

www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

AFTER WATER CANNON ATTACKS

BEIJING NOW SEEKS CALM

CHINA COAST GUARD SHOULD ‘BEHAVE’ IN WPS, AFP WARNS

By Charles Dantes

CHINA is now preaching calm and urging the Philippines to engage it in new discussions over issues in the West Philippine Sea after tensions were inflamed following a new water-cannon attack of its coast guard against local ships on a resupply mission to a PH military outpost at Ayungin Shoal.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who is currently touring Singapore and Malaysia, on Saturday said Manila should work with Beijing “to seek an effective way to defuse tensions in the South China Sea,” the official Xinhua news agency said on Saturday.

In another report, diplomatic sources told CNN Philippines that China “has taken note of the strong statements of Philippine officials” after the water cannon incident near Ayungin Shoal last Aug. 5.

Chinese officials also submitted a “concept paper” that indicates the

“internal understanding” of the two countries in handling the WPS issue, the CNN report added.

But the Armed Forces of the Philippines warned the China Coast Guard operating in the West Philippine Sea to “behave” and that Beijing would be blamed for “all the consequences that would arise” from hostile acts in the area.

The Philippines is ready to defend its position should China resort to forcefully removing the BRP Sierra Madre moored at Ayungin Shoal, AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said.

He clarified that while such a scenario is purely “speculative,” the Philippine military “of course, we will resist.”

Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela also said at the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City that if the AFP request them “to provide escort, we will deploy vessels that will support the supply mission.”

Tarriela said PCG Commandant Admiral Artemio Abu “is willing to deploy additional vessels to support the resupply mission, and if it need be to deploy a 97-meter vessel that would also be an option.”

China has repeatedly expressed its willingness to resolve differences with the Philippines through bilateral dialogue, hoping that Manila would abide by a consensus reached in the past, Xinhua reported Wang as saying.

China said its position on Ayungin Shoal, or Second Thomas Shoal, remains clear and consistent. “We urge the Philippines to stop unilateral actions pending any agreement,” the CNN source added.

Prof. Renato de Castro, a political analyst from De La Salle University, said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has raised the country’s preparations for the ongoing tensions in the WPS.

Castro hailed the President’s whole-of-nation approach in dealing with external threats, but to develop a stronger maritime capability, the administration should build up the AFP and PCG, and encourage more local shipbuilding.

In the same forum in QC, another political analyst said the Philippines should pursue a peaceful way to resolve its territorial dispute with China.

Dr. Froilan Calilung, University of Santo Tomas political science professor, said that with the current situation in the WPS, an actual shooting war might be imminent.

The US, Canada, Japan, and Australia—all treaty allies of the Philippines—and the European Union have decried the event, restating their support for the 2016 arbitral ruling favoring the Philippines.

MARCOS OKAYS 5-YEAR NATIONAL SECURITY POLICY

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has approved the National Security Policy (NSP) 2023-2028 to harmonize government efforts and make the Philippines a “free, united, secure, peaceful, resilient and prosperous” nation, amid heightened tensions with China over the West Philippine Sea.

Under Executive Order (EO) 37 signed by Mr. Marcos on Aug. 10, all national government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs), are directed to adopt the NSP 2023-2028 in forming and implementing their securityrelated strategies and programs.

Local government units (LGUs) are encouraged to adopt the national security policy, which pushes for the country to have an independent foreign policy.

EO 37, which was made public on Saturday, takes effect immediately upon publication In the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.

“To ensure the successful implementation of the NSP 2023-2028, there is a need to align all national security-related strategies, as well as the plans and programs of all national government agencies,” the EO read.

EO 37 designates the National Security Council (NSC) Secretariat, whenever necessary, to provide technical assistance and support to government agencies and other entities in forming policies and strategies affecting national security.

The National Security Adviser is also mandated to conduct a periodic assessment and submit reports to the President and the NSC on the execution of the NSP.

The five-year plan was formulated to provide guidance and a comprehensive approach to improve security sector governance and address national security challenges in coordination and consulta-

GET TOUGHER, USE IRON FIST ON COPS, VACC URGES PBBM

GET tougher on the national police and use an iron fist to keep cops in line, the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption told President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday.

This would create a “fear factor” against rogue policemen, especially those involved in cases of impunity and possible brutality, VACC President Arsenio “Boy” Evangelista said in a press conference.

He lamented that cops were involved in drug cases and other crimes, saying they were able to “reclaim the streets” of Metro Manila.

Evangelista also condemned the killing of 17-year-old Jemboy Baltazar in Navotas City by local policemen in an apparent case of mistaken identity.

tion with key government agencies and instrumentalities, with the participation of various stakeholders.

The President’s approval is aimed at ensuring that national security efforts are responsive and complementary to the development goals and objectives set in the Philippine Development Plan 2023 to 2028.

The funding requirements for the implementation of EO 37 will becharged against current and available appropriations of concerned agencies, subject to pertinent budgeting, accounting, and auditing laws, rules, and regulations.

Charles Dantes

“It is perhaps about time that (the President) BBM should [be] hands-on from time-to-time or most of the time. He should be visible on national TV (castigating cops), showing ‘kamay na bakal’ (iron fist), and delivering a severe message to policemen,” he added in a radio interview.

“During the time of [former President Rodrigo] Duterte, we saw that cops straightened up, if they weren’t frightened into obeying. There was a climate of fear among the uniformed personnel,” said Evangelista.

This was not the first time that public sectors and officials urged Marcos to be angrier when people in his government show lapses in their duty. The Palace has yet to comment on the matter at press time.

MANILA

CORNY MOVES. Student dancers strut their moves in the street dance competition of the Mammangi Festival, which coincides with the 11th Cityhood Anniversary of Ilagan, Isabela, also known as the Corn Capital of the Philippines. Teddy Pelaez

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

BI INSPECTS DREDGING SHIPS, CHECKS RECLAMATION WORKERS

By Vito Barcelo

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has initiated an inspection of dredging vessels located in reclamation sites in Pasay City to check the status of foreigners working on the project.

The environment group Oceana meanwhile urged the government to end reclamation activities in Manila Bay and not just suspend it, citing long-term damage to the environment. The group also said, “it would be a lot of help to everyone if all these projects were stopped.”

The Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) said only three ongoing projects are affected by the suspension of all 22 reclamation projects in Manila Bay.

According to the PRA, maps provided by the Department of Environ-

ment and Natural Resources show the three ongoing reclamation projects are Harbour City in Pasay, with 265 hectares of land allocated for institutions, condominiums, and hotels; a 390-hectare joint venture between the city and SM Prime Holdings; and the 318-hectare Manila Waterfront City project near the United States Embassy.

The PRA said most of the reclamation projects are still under “various stages of compliance,” adding that the agency received the presidential directive suspending

the reclamation projects.

The PRA said it has served suspension notices to the local governments of Metro Manila cities of Navotas, Manila, Pasay, Parañaque, Las Piñas; as well as Bacoor City, and Cavite province.

The BI inspection meanwhile was done with the Philippine Coast Guard and was conducted by officers of the BI’s Bay Service Section and Intelligence Division.

BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco earlier ordered BI personnel to inspect the said vessels, following concerns on their activities in the area.

President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. earlier ordered the suspension of reclamation activities in Manila Bay.  The Department of Environment and Natural Resource (DENR) likewise pledged to conduct community im-

IN BRIEF

AUSTRALIAN PREMIER TO MEET WITH MARCOS, DISCUSS DEFENSE TIES

pact assessment to ensure that the reclamation will be implemented within the bounds of the law.

The inspection, said Tansingco, will be conducted to ensure that foreign nationals involved in the project are compliant with immigration laws.

He stated that foreign nationals that conduct commercial activities in the Philippines are required to secure a work visa or permit.

Tansingco shared that as of Friday, the composite team were able to board and inspect three vessels namely MV Mao Hua with 14 Chinese nationals and 8 Filipino crew, MV Liang Longj with 17 Chinese nationals and 2 Filipino crew, and MV Jun Hai 5, with 28 Chinese crew.

He stated that the inspections will continue in the next few days to ensure full compliance with immigration laws.

DUTERTE BACKS RETURN OF BASIC MILITARY TRAINING FOR YOUTH

FORMER President Rodrigo Duterte is pushing for the return of basic military training for young Filipinos.

Duterte also said he “strongly supports” programs where the youth can learn basic handling of firearms to prepare them for any circumstances that the country may face in the future.

Duterte, in an ABS-CBN News report said, the Philippines should prepare itself in case the military or police force is rendered incapable of protecting the public.

Duterte, in an online interview uploaded on Sen. Francis Tolentino’s YouTube channel, said “most

do not want to hold firearms,” noting people should learn the basics, such as placing a bullet to the gun’s chamber.

Vice President Sara Duterte, the former president’s daughter, who now heads the Department of Education (DepEd) earlier said that it would be better to implement the mandatory ROTC program at higher education levels.

Duterte further said if the military or police are not present, civilians should learn to use guns, adding that there should be basic training and that young Filipinos should undergo a mandatory Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) to also learn what

to do during “nuclear or dynamite” explosions.

He noted that there might come a time when the public would need to take up arms to survive.

“What if the world is on fire, how do you react? What you should do? You can only get it from basic military training,” Duterte, quoted by ABS-CBN, further said.

Duterte also said “whatever explosion whether it could nuclear or dynamite,” what is important is that “we all know what to do, where to run.”

The former president also said a mandatory ROTC course can

ADMIN PREPARING AMNESTY PACKAGE FOR REBEL RETURNEES

THE government revealed that it is in the process of preparing an amnesty package for communist rebels to bring them back into the mainstream.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Saturday said this “landmark” move on the government’s efforts on peace and development was “in the works” following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s announcement on the peace process in his recent State of the Nation Address (SONA).

“In a landmark move toward recon-

ciliation and reintegration, the Philippine government shall soon establish a new amnesty package that would allow members of non-State armed groups to relinquish their arms and return to society,” Bersamin, in a speech during the International Humanitarian Law Day, said.

In the speech delivered by Undersecretary Severo Catura, Bersamin said the program would provide a “dignified pathway” for the former combatants to rebuild their lives, become productive, and contribute to society’s progress.

“More importantly, this initiative shall be a bold step toward ending the vicious cycle of violence and fostering a culture of forgiveness and unity that promotes national healing,” he said in the speech.

Bersamin also said the administration’s move to institutionalize a program to encourage the rebels to return to the fold of the law shows its adherence to international humanitarian laws (IHL), which promotes peace and sustainable development.

Charles Dantes

also help instill patriotism among Filipinos.

Duterte has been vocal about his “love” for the Philippines despite forging closer ties with China amid its continued incursions in the West Philippine Sea.

He further said ROTC is “connected to patriotism.”

The former President added that Filipinos should not be wary of the kind of discipline being instilled during ROTC classes, saying that these are parts of the military discipline that the youth has to learn. “To put it simply, it is just to have to obey,” Duterte said, noting that the ROTC training is held only every Saturday.

SYDNEY, Australia -Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he will meet Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on September 8 to discuss the two countries’ cooperation on defense, maritime security, and development.

“Our partnership with the Philippines is built on close defense and security cooperation, increasing economic relations and warm personal ties,” a statement from the office of Albanese said.

Earlier, the Philippines and Australia discussed pursuing joint patrols in the South China Sea during a February visit by Australia’s Defense Minister Richard Marles.

Albanese will become the first Australian prime minister to visit the Philippines for bilateral talks in two decades as part of a five-day Southeast Asian sojourn.

PCO, GOV’T AGENCIES TO COMBAT FAKE NEWS WITH NEW CAMPAIGN

THE Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on Saturday said it is partnering with other government agencies to combat fake news.

In a statement, the PCO said it will be implementing the Marcos administration’s Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Campaign Project through a ceremonial signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with its partner agencies.

The PCO said partner agencies will include the Department of Education (DepEd), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The MOU signing will be held on Monday, August 14, reports said.

The PCO, in a GMA News report, further said the MIL is “the administration’s response to the misinformation and misinformation plaguing the country’s digital landscape, focusing on capacitating the youth to become more discerning consumers of media.”

With the accord, the agencies will collaborate with the PCO on a comprehensive execution plan crafted to target the identified root causes of the issue.

NAIA SECURITY HIKED AFTER CHINESE CAUGHT WITH LIVE AMMO, DRUGS

AIRPORT authorities in Manila have stepped up their security measures after a 52-year-old Chinese businessman was caught with live ammunition and suspected illegal drugs hidden in his shoes.

The incident occurred during routine security screening at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport - Terminal 3. The intercepted ammunition and prohibited substance have been turned over to the Police Aviation Security Group and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, respectively.

“This is a major blow to those attempting to circumvent security.

Our robust screening protocols such as the mandatory footwear removal, enable us to effectively identify and intercept prohibited items, ensuring  the security of all individuals within transport facilities,” said Undersecretary Ma.O Aplasca, Office for Transportation Security (OTS) administrator. Joel E. Zurbano

BUSTED. Taguig police arrested a man who pretended to be a member of the Philippine Army who was carrying P10,000 worth of fake money during an operation in Taguig on Friday. The suspect tried to buy a pack of cigarette from a store and was apprehended for handing a fake P1,000-peso bill.

Cruz

Norman

ROAD WORKS. Workers repair a portion of one of the west-bound lanes of Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City which caused moderate to heavy traffic. Manny Palmero

P5,000 in financial aid under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. The payout is aimed at making the services of President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. and Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez more accessible and convenient for Filipinos. Miko Noveno

MAKATI CALLS OUT TAGUIG FOR SCHOOL TAKEOVER TRY

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE City of Makati on Saturday called out the local government of Taguig for trying to take over public schools situated in the barangays covered by the Supreme Court decision on the boundary dispute between the two cities.

City administrator Claro Certeza, in a statement, said the public schools are properties titled to Makati and that the city intends to file appropriate criminal and administrative charges against Taguig City officials.

Certeza also pointed out that Taguig’s action was an “act of duplicity and bad faith” as they previously requested discussions for a smooth transition, but then attempted to use force without any lawful order.

In response, the City of Taguig assured the public “that the initiative was done in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, and with the best interests of the students and their families in mind.”

Taguig cited “facts that support their actions, including the Supreme Court’s final decision, regular meetings with school officials, and the deployment of security personnel to ensure the welfare of everyone involved.”

“The City of Taguig takes strong exception to the misleading and false statements made by the city adminis-

IN BRIEF

ALAGANG TINGOG OPENS 4 CENTERS

ALAGANG Tingog Centers initiated by Tingog party-list group and the Office of the Speaker have opened in parts of the Visayas region this week.

On August 10, the ATC was launched in Sagay City, Negros Occidental followed by a payout event with the support of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The payout ceremony benefited 1,000 individuals from diverse sectors such as youth, senior citizens, LGBTQ+ community, and single mothers, each receiving P5,000.

The party-list group also inaugurated its second ATC in Negros Occidental, located in Cadiz City. A third center was opened in Manapla in the same province.

Tingog also unveiled its first Alagang Tingog Center (ATC) in Ubay, the dairy capital of Bohol, on August 11.

This collaborative effort involved the Office of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, Tingog Party-list Reps. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez and Jude A. Acidre, and the Office of the Presidential Assistance in Visayas, highlighting the commitment to accessible and inclusive services. Maricel Cruz

P206M WORTH OF FAKE 'LV' PRODUCTS SEIZED

trator of Makati, and will continue to exercise its mandate and jurisdiction over these barangays for the ultimate benefit of the new residents of Taguig,” it said.

Since Friday night, according to Makati’s Certeza, “enforcers” from Taguig’s Public Safety Department attempted to forcibly take possession of several public elementary and high school buildings in the barangays. “These ‘enforcers’, who did not possess any writ of execution or any other lawful order, created unnecessary tension in these areas,” he said.

THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has confiscated over P206 million worth of counterfeit luxury products in Bulacan, Pasay, and Parañaque.

On August 9, the NBI’s Intellectual Property Rights Division (NBI-IPRD) implemented six search warrants against Warehouse 6 in RIS 1 Complex in Guiguinto, Bulacan.

Four were also implemented for stalls in LRT shopping mall in Pasay City and Micar Shopping Center in Parañaque.

“The operation resulted in the seizure of 1,588 pieces of counterfeit Louis Vuitton products worth Php 206,000,000.00 for violation of RA 8293 Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines,” The bureau posted in a statement. Gabriellea Pariño

ALAGANG TINGOG. Tingog Party-list Reps. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez and Jude Acidre (second and first from left) join Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado and Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane C. Yap (second and first from right) in cutting the ribbon to open the Alagang Tingog Center in the province. Some 1,000 beneficiaries from Tagbilaran (inset) also received

IN BRIEF

MALAYSIANS VOTE ON ANWAR GOV’T

KUALA LUMPUR—Malaysians in six states went to the polls Saturday to vote for state assembly members in elections widely seen as a barometer of support for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s unity government.

While the elections are unlikely to immediately affect Anwar’s current two-thirds majority in parliament, analysts said his hold on power could weaken if his Pakatan Harapan coalition suffers a setback, especially among Malay Muslim voters in the largely Islamic Southeast Asian nation.

The coalition has so far held together in a country that had seen three leadership turnovers in as many years after scandaltainted Najib Razak was voted out as prime minister in 2018 over massive corruption at state fund 1MDB.

HAWAII WILDFIRE TOLL HITS 67

STATE STARTS PROBE INTO HANDLING OF DEVASTATING BLAZE

LAHAINA—Hawaii’s chief legal officer said Friday she was opening a probe into the handling of devastating wildfires that killed at least 67 people in the state this week, as criticism grows of the official response.

The announcement came as residents of Lahaina were allowed back into the town for the first time -- with most finding their homes had been reduced to ashes, and even the lucky few angry at a sense of abandonment.

FREE JAILED JOURNO CHENG, AUSTRALIA PM URGES CHINA

SYDNEY -- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called on Saturday for China to release jailed Australian journalist Cheng Lei, saying he was worried about her condition after three years behind bars.

Cheng has described her bleak prison conditions in a note dictated a note to Australian officials from her cell, saying she misses trees and sunlight but “most of all I miss my children”.

The message was shared with Australian news outlets and on the social media platform X by Cheng’s partner, Nick Coyle, on Thursday. Asked if he was concerned about her welfare, Albanese said: “I certainly am, and Cheng should be released. This is three years too long.”

“Cheng Lei is an Australian citizen. She is someone who does not deserve this treatment,” he told reporters during a visit to Queensland.

Albanese said Australia had pressed for Cheng’s release at the “highest levels” and would continue to do so “whenever Australia meets with China”. AFP

“Everything has been coconut wire,” said William Harry, referring to a system of rumors.

“One person heard, then told another, but it’s not official information. They don’t come here and explain anything.”

Another man, who did not want to be named, told AFP he felt like he had been left to fend for himself.

“Where is the government? Where are they?” he fumed.

“This is insane. We can’t move freely, we don’t get the support, now we’ve heard about looting.”

Hawaii’s Attorney General Anne Lopez said her office would be examining “critical decision-making and standing policies leading up to, during and after the wildfires on Maui and Hawai’i islands this week.”

“My department is committed to understanding

the decisions that were made before and during the wildfires and to sharing with the public the results of this review.” Reunion

For some of those who made it back into Lahaina, there was elation as they tearfully reconnected with neighbors they feared might not have got out alive.

“You made it!” cried Chyna Cho, as she embraced Amber Langdon amid the ruins. “I was trying to find you.”

For some of the luckiest, there was joy -- albeit tempered by the scale of the tragedy that counts among the worst natural disasters to hit the state of Hawaii.

“I just couldn’t believe it,” Keith Todd told AFP after finding his home intact.

“I’m so grateful, but at the same time it’s so devastating.” AFP

More than 9.7 million voters are expected to cast their ballots to elect 245 assembly members in the states of Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah, Penang, Selangor and Negeri Sembilan. Of the six states, Anwar’s coalition holds three, while the rest are controlled by an influential rural-based Malay Muslim alliance led by former prime minister Muhyiddin Yassin.

Malays account for two-thirds of Malaysia’s 33 million population, which includes large ethnic Chinese and Indian minorities. AFP

RUSSIA: 20 UKRAINIAN DRONES SHOT DOWN

MOSCOW —Russia said on Saturday it shot down 20 unmanned Ukrainian drones near the Crimean peninsula.

Fourteen drones were destroyed by air defense systems and six more were suppressed by electronic warfare, the defense ministry said on Telegram. There were no casualties or damage, it said.

In Moscow, officials said Friday they had destroyed a drone aimed at the capital, the latest in a string of attacks on the city in recent days.

A Ukrainian drone was destroyed over the western outskirts of Moscow, the defense ministry said, adding there were no casualties or damage as a result of the incident.

In July, Ukrainian drone strikes on Crimea blew up an ammunition depot and damaged the bridge across the Kerch Strait linking the peninsula to Russia’s mainland. AFP

IS-SYRIAN ARMY BUS CASUALTIES UP TO 33

BEIRUT—An attack by Islamic State group jihadists on Syrian government forces in the war-torn country’s east has killed 33 soldiers, a monitor said Saturday, revising an earlier toll of 26 deaths.

The shooting Thursday evening on an army bus was the extremist group’s deadliest attack on government forces this year, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Despite losing their last piece of territory in Syria in 2019, IS has maintained hideouts in the vast Syrian desert from which it has carried out ambushes and hit-andrun attacks.

“The death toll from the army bus attack rose to 33 soldiers,” said Rami Abdel Rahman, who heads the British-based monitoring group which relies on a wide network of sources inside Syria. AFP

TAIWAN VP LEAVES FOR US EN ROUTE TO PARAGUAY

TAIPEI—Taiwan’s Vice President William Lai flies to the United States on Saturday in a sensitive trip that has angered Chinese officials.

The democratic island is claimed by China, which has vowed to take the territory one day -- by force, if necessary -- and has ramped up political and military pressure.

him & the people of #Paraguay the best wishes of (Taiwan),” Lai wrote on Twitter, now called X. “(E)xcited to meet with #US friends in transit.”

This is to inform the public that EVANGELINA MATEO QUIAZON aka “Geline” whose picture appears above is no longer connected with Birhen

It opposes other countries’ official exchanges with Taiwan, and often reacts angrily to Taiwanese leaders’ stopovers in the United States.

Lai—a candidate for Taiwan’s presidential elections next year -- is officially making only transit stops in the United States en route to and from Paraguay, where he will be attending the inauguration.

“Departing soon for #Asuncion

to attend (president-elect Santiago Pena’s) inauguration & convey to

In response, Laura Rosenberger, chair of the American Institute in Taiwan—a de-facto embassy for Taiwan based in Virginia—wrote that officials were “looking forward to welcoming” Lai.

Lai is expected to stop in New York en route to Paraguay, and San Francisco when flying back.

Last week, China’s foreign ministry urged US leaders to “abide by the OneChina principle and... to stop official exchanges between the US and Taiwan”.

In April, China staged three days of military exercises simulating a blockade of Taiwan after President Tsai Ing-wen met US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in California. AFP

WADING MONK. A Buddhist monk wades through a flooded street following monsoon rains in Bago township, Bago region, Myanmar on August 11. Floods and landslides caused by monsoon rains have killed five people and forced the evacuation of around 40,000 others in Myanmar, officials said on August 11. AFP CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

CHARRED REMAINS. Hano Ganer (Rear, center) and Taylor Ganer (center right) look through the ashes of their family’s home in the aftermath of a wildfire in Lahaina, western Maui, Hawaii on August 11. Brushfires on Maui, fueled by high winds from Hurricane Dora passing to the south of Hawaii, broke out August 8 and rapidly engulfed Lahaina. AFP

By Randy M. Caluag

WHO says nothing is free in this world?

At Nike’s The Courtyard in BGC, Taguig, everyone can play basketball for free. Just download the Nike app and register as a member of the Nike community.

“No hidden charges,” says Jino Ferrer, Nike’s country marketing manager in the Philippines. “To get a booking at The Courtyard, you just need to be a member of Nike by registering for free at Nike app.”

Weekdays at the Nike Courtyard especially suit the lone wolf looking to play ball.

“There are speci c timeslots to choose from. Once you book that time slot, you get con rmation. When you go to check in at the Courtyard, that’s the only time you get to know the ballers who registered on those time slots,” explained Ferrer.

The essence of this system of random registration, according to Ferrer, is to help grow a closely-knit community of ballers and promote friendship. “The reason we’re doing that way is that bringing in individuals from separate industries, circles, and spaces will help grow the community.”

Of course, there’s still an option for players to register and play together as a team during weekends. “We call it the “squad day”, and again, Ferrer stressed, it’s all for free.

WOMEN POWER

Women are becoming a force to reckon with. Taking this into consideration, the Nike Courtyard also allotted exclusive slots for women players, who can play every Tuesday and Thursday from 6 to 10 pm.

“We are basically giving dedicated time to women ballers in this court. That’s just one step for us to basically continue to let the female ballers know that we’re supporting them, giving them space and a platform to help grow their community,” Ferrer added.

May Belen, one of the lady basketball personalities who graced the recent opening day of the Nike Courtyard, said “Making friendships

STREET BASKETBALL LIKE NO OTHER AT NIKE’S THE COURTYARD IN BGC

has FIBA-standard full courts and one is a half-court with a free-throw line for practice-shooting. The court’s surfaces are made with NIKE GRIND rubber from the outsoles of about 30,000 pairs of recycled shoes. The bounce may be a bit di erent from the usual hard surface, but one gets the rhythm as the play wears on, especially for 3x3 play where it’s more about shooting the ball from afar or driving to the basket with just about less dribble and a couple of steps.

EABL YOUTH LEAGUE SET IN SEPTEMBER

ANOTHER window of opportunity awaits Filipino young hoop players. The East Asia Basketball League (EABL) will launch the Philippine Youth Basketball League 23-and-Under Open Invitational Conference this coming September 2 at the covered court of Brgy. Jesus Dela Pena Gym in Marikina City.

ESBL co-founder and Sports Chief Executive O cer Dr. Norman Afable said on Friday that the new schoolbased and inter-town league is a whi of fresh air in youth basketball, particularly for out-of-school youth and poor kids who are totally a ected by the pandemic.

“Binuo naming ito, tulong-tulong kami sa Executive Committee upang mabigyan ng karagdagang avenue ang ating mga kabataan na maipamalas ang kanilang kahusayan at mabigyan ng pagkakataon para maituloy ang kanilang mga pangarap. Ika na, ‘everyone deserves a second chance’. Mula rito, maaaring maging kinatawan sila ng bansa sa East- Asia Paci c Region league,” said Afable.

“May mga kaibigan tayo sa iba’t ibang bansa na nagpahayag ng kanilang hangarin na makasali sa liga, gayundin ang makahanap ng mga players na puwedeng maglaro sa kanilang mga liga. Kaya malaking oportunidad ito para sa ating manlalarong Pinoy,” he added.

and playing with more women players open more opportunities.”

Former UAAP player Marga Jimenez said that playing at the Courtyard will enable women to “pass the passion to one another. She shall belong here.”

During the launch, women players were designated team captains if the media teams that played in fun 3x3 games and Kat Tan, the “One-armed

ArenaPlus IS OFFICIAL SPORTSBOOK PARTNER OF GILAS PILIPINAS

ArenaPlus, the 24/7 online sports betting app, has inked a two-year partnership with the Gilas Pilipinas to become the Philippine men’s national basketball team’s official sportsbook partner.

This collaboration follows ArenaPlus’ groundbreaking bond with the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) to bring the highly anticipated FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 to the Philippines.

The partnership aims to provide an unparalleled basketball experience to Filipino fans. Andy Tsui, President of DigiPlus Interactive Corporation, the parent company of ArenaPlus, emphasized their commitment to innovation and elevating the fun for basketball enthusiasts.

“We, in ArenaPlus, innovation is at the core of what we do. We continuously raise the bar by partnering with remarkable groups and organizations like Gilas Pilipinas. This partnership is a testament to our belief in the deep love Filipinos have for basketball. We want to enhance your sports appreciation and bring a whole new level of fun to your cheering experience,” Tsui said.

Rafael Jasper Vicencio, President of Total Gamezone Xtreme Incorporated,

From left

Mamba”, emerged as the rst ThreePoint Queen at the Nike Courtyard. NO ORDINARY COURTS

So, what makes it special to play The Courtyard?

Every player contributes to the essence of environmental sustainability and helps protect the planet through upcycling.

The 2,182 square meter Courtyard at 25th Street and 7th Avenue in BGC

The Courtyard also has a locker facility, male and female restrooms, and shower rooms. The rooftop of the locker room can double up as an observation deck for friends to watch the action while o ering 70 square meters of space for events and workshops.

Playing at The Courtyard is, de nitely, more than just about basketball.

Afable expressed his heartfelt gratitude to his league co-founder Dr. Joseph Ross Jocson, Chairman-Batang Manila, as well as to the other member of the Executive Committee namely Ricky Magallanes, US Based Coach; FIBA International Referee Roger Basillio as league Commissioner, FIBA Referee and Commissioner Reynaldo Manalac, Thailand Based Coach and Commissioner Jojo Castillo, AFP Philippines Coach and Commissioner Sonny Manucat, FIBA International Head Technical and Commissioner Lito Macaspac and Bishop Ceasar Pacis, Missionary Pastor, and Spiritual Leader.

thanked the organization and expressed his optimism for a successful partnership.

“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) for trusting ArenaPlus and giving us the opportunity to support GILAS Pilipinas. I can’t wait for more fruitful engagements with this incredible team in the next 2 years. And as they say in GILAS, ‘Puso’ and we promise to put our hearts into this partnership.”

ArenaPlus will be supporting Gilas Pilipinas as they compete in the upcoming FIBA World Basketball Cup 2023, which will take place in the Philippines from August 25 to Sept.

10. This year’s roster includes Jordan Clarkson, Kiefer Ravena, Dwight Ramos, Angelo Kouame, and the ArenaPlus ambassador Scottie Thompson.

ArenaPlus is a licensed 24/7 online sports betting app by the Philippine Amusement Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), offering the latest scores and results from hundreds and thousands of games worldwide, including PBA, NBA, PVL, and more. Download the ArenaPlus App now from Google Play and the App Store.

Young girls who underwent basketball clinic play 5-on-5 during the recent launch of the Nike’s The Courtyard at BGC.

Jino Ferrer, Nike Philippines’ country marketing manager, shows discarded sports shoes and apparels used to produce NIKE GRIND.

Nike Philippines o cials, media and sports personalities show of force.

LEISURE FARM GIVES CAVITE ENTREPRENEUR NEW VISION

GOVERNMENT employeeturned proprietress Lani Diesta applied the lessons she acquired from short courses on organic farming, while battling cancer, to launch a leisure farm.

L&J Country Estate in Mendez, Cavite started as Diesta’s attempt to find contentment in nature. The hobby of planting organic vegetables, fruits and ornamental plants nurtured her body and gave her vision for a new business.

“I came to a realization that everything will go back to earth,” she said. “Thus I went back to my family roots as land owner and tried my hand at farming.”

She said the lull of farm life is a welcome pause to the hectic and hurried life she was accustomed to while serving the City of Tagaytay for 20 years as head of the Information and Tourism Department.

She led the Tagaytay contingent during ASEAN events in the Philippines and during international conventions and regional summits.

Farming is a therapeutic activity for Diesta. Soiled, but in high spirits, she restored the vitality of the farm which was left unattended in more than two decades, with only a caretaker looking over the property to prevent illegal settlers from squatting in the farm.

L&J Country Estate—co-owned by her mother, sister and brotherin-law—is the third in a series of enterprises the family invested in.

Their catering business in the late 1990s was a thriving venture. Thanks to a captive market, the catering business was a huge hit not only for school events but also for weddings, birthdays, family reunions and corporate events.

Her community ties also contributed to the growing popularity of L&J Catering which expanded into a full-blown events and catering business called Casa de Corazon.

Like many businesses during the pandemic, the events place folded up when they failed to pay the lease of half a million pesos monthly.

The estate and the previous catering business were all namesakes of her parents— Leopoldo and Julita—who had the foresight to invest in a business that

Lani Diesta with family proved to be a game changer among established businesses at the time.

Diesta then conceptualized L&J County Estate as a leisure farm with accommodation facilities, a pool, events hall, cafe and a campsite for family outdoor activities.

They hired farmhands for the cultivation of dragon fruit which the farm sells below market prices. Santol and Indian mango trees, which are abundant in the one-hectare property, are part of the original topology, adding to the revenue generated by the farm.

Diesta and her family spent over P20 million for the construction of the facilities only to face unexpected odds.

Taal Volcano’s brewing explosion in December 2019 threatened to ruin the business community in Tagaytay and nearby towns. A month later, the threeyear pandemic obliterated smaller businesses in the locality.

Life after the Big C

The painful memory of her struggle with cancer did not affect her journey

to recovery. With a new lease on life, Diesta learned to widen her personal take on how to live a full and gratifying life. It was something she did not realize when she was working beyond office hours especially during local public campaigns, regional conventions and international events.

“I was busy trying to live for other people that I forgot my well-being. I used to spend time beyond office hours especially if there were public campaigns or engagements. I loved how my work was creating inroads and promoting solutions to social, civic and environmental issues affecting the City,” she said. Her mind was so focused on delivering results, but her body began to suffer.

“My vision was failing me. It came to a point that I was bumping into things. I went to an eye doctor for check-up but, I was immediately referred to a specific doctor in the Philippine General Hospital who turned out to be the only eye oncologist in the Philippines,” Diesta said.

Like her eyesight, everything that followed was a blur—from the time she met her oncologist to surgery, which was only a span of three days, as the exigency of her condition demanded immediate action.

She continued her treatment for the next six months to make sure the cancer which affected one of her eyes would not metastasize to other

parts of her body. In 2018, or two years after the surgery, Diesta decided to quit her office job. Retirement has a way of keeping herself more aware of what her body needs.

Entrepreneurial gift

Bold and proud of what her family has managed to achieve, what matters the most to Diesta is how the farm has inspired many micro and small entrepreneurs to set up their own businesses in the area.

Smaller resort format, one-ofa-kind museums and a plethora of cafes have sprouted in areas surrounding the dynamic ecosystem initiated by L&J Country Estate.

“We are sincerely glad that our small business has helped in the growth of the town, and how we are able to inspire more business-minded people to keep the entrepreneurial spirit burning,” Diesta said.

She also disclosed possible partnerships with similar businesses seeking to create tour packages to promote leisure establishments near and around L&J Country Estate.

L&J Country Estate is the start of a string of leisure establishments Diesta and her lifetime partner are planning to roll out in the future.

The couple is branching out to Batangas province to introduce a new business format that would spread economic benefits through local employment and additional taxes to the LGU.

Othel V. Campos

WATSONS EMBRACES ‘DO GOOD’ CAMPAIGN

WATSONS aims to uplift the health and well-being of the communities it serves, ensure a sustainable and healthy workforce, provide customers with sustainable options, manage supplychain risk, and reduce its ecological footprint through the “Do Good” program.

“Our heritage of Doing Good has brought about our passion to support the community and the planet. We are proud of many achievements - children whose lives we have transformed, families given access to health services and products, more sustainable products made available to our customers, drastic reduction of plastics in our packaging, and tons of plastics we have recycled. The task is too enormous. We have to continue on and accelerate our pace by building greener stores and investing more in renewable energy,” said Watsons Philippines managing director Danilo Chiong.

Part of the wellness chain’s aspirations is to perform 3,300 cleft surgeries and benefit 20,000 individuals through the provision of free medicines by 2030.

In collaboration with Operation Smile Philippines, Watsons played a vital role in changing the lives of 116 children through cleft surgeries in 2022, bringing the total number of surgery beneficiaries since their partnership began in 2013 to 2,152.

Additionally, Watsons provided medicines to 910 people through medical missions in 2022, contributing to a cumulative total of 6,579 beneficiaries since 2013.

Through the Alagang Pangkalusugan program, Watsons offered free doctor’s consultations and various screening services such as bone scanning, ECG, glucose check, eye check, and so much more, furthering its commitment to the community’s well-being.

ABOITIZ UNIT MARKS 25 YEARS OF PROVIDING QUALITY PRODUCTS

PILMICO Animal Nutrition Corporation (Pilmico), the agribusiness subsidiary of the Aboitiz Group, celebrates 25 years of bringing quality feeds, meats, and more through its mill-to-meal process..

Pilmico started its journey as a commercial swine farms and a feed milling facility in Tarlac in 1998. It has depend its engagement in the food value chain venturing into poultry layer farms to a meat processing plant and recently to a meats retail brand.

GLOBAL BEAUTY BRAND VOWS TO REDUCE, RECYCLE

L’ORÉAL Groupe, in partnership with PCX, a registered producer responsibility organization (PRO), announced its commitment to recover, sort and recycle plastic equivalent to 100 percent of its yearly plastic footprint volume starting in 2023, going beyond the 20 percent recovery target mandated by the local government.

In line with its sustainability commitments under the L’Oréal for the Future program, L’oreal Group fully supports the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act of 2022, a law governing the practical approach on efficient waste management, waste reduction and development of environment-friendly packaging.

The law incorporates the the responsibility of the producer throughout the products lifecycle and promotes sustainable consumption and principles of a circular economy.

“L’Oréal is committed to promoting a circular economy. Our focus is to create products that reflect this aspiration

- from the design to the post-use of our products. To amplify this vision, the Group has committed to ensuring

that 100 percent of the plastics used in L’Oréal’s product packaging will come from recycled or bio-based sources by 2030. As we work hard to achieve this goal, we share our full support and commitment to the implementation of the EPR Act as an effective way to reduce our impact,” said L’Oreal Group Philippines managing director Yannick Raynaud.

PCX founder and executive chairperson Nanette Medved-Po said the Philippine government’s efforts to address the issue on plastics, its uses and management, inspire civic groups and companies to do their part to manage plastic utilization and recycling.

“Tackling plastic waste is an important issue, and we’re pleased that L’Oréal has gone above and beyond requirements to address the plastic pollution challenge in the Philippines with urgency,” she added.

“In our 25th year, we are energized to nourish the future by supporting the growth of the animal nutrition industry while adding exceptional value to our stakeholders. We hope to produce more quality feeds and meats so that more Filipinos can enjoy nutritious food,” said Pilmico country director for agribusiness Norie Bermudez.

The company’s newest breeding and nursery farm in Nueva Ecija, built to help augment the local pork supply, supports the growing presence of its meats retail brand, The Good Meat, which is now available in over 400 supermarkets and six-stand alone stores.

Pilmico continues to be a trusted partner to Filipino livestock farmers and businesses through good feeds, good meats, as it also helps to advance communities through livelihood assistance such as livelihood kits and egg machines and gilts.

Leaders of L’Oréal Philippines led by Yannick Raynaud, country managing director (6th from left) and PCX team lead by Nanette Medved-Po, PCX founder and executive chairperson (5th from right).

Danilo S. Chiong, Watsons Philippines managing director

METRO MANILA’S LEADING LADIES

By Patricia Taculao

WOMEN have come a long way to achieve equal rights in society. Although there’s still much to do, there’s no doubt that women progressed in various sectors previously dominated by men–including public service.

Today, seven cities across Metro Manila have the distinction of being led by a woman, positively impacting Filipinos with their strength and fresh perspectives.

Abby Binay (Makati)

Following in the footsteps of her mother, Dr. Elenita Binay, who served from 1998 to 2001 as the first female mayor of Makati City, Binay leads Makati with a modern vision in mind. But among her many challenges is paving her own path in public service, away from her family’s shadows and gender prejudices. Nonetheless, she’s persistent in creating a highly-urbanized Makati that focuses on its bustling economy and tourism, improving public safety, healthcare, and education, and investing in infrastructure for long-term progress.

Imelda Aguilar (Las Piñas)

After assuming the position of mayor from her husband, Vergel ‘Nene’ Aguilar, in 2016, the incumbent Las Piñas Mayor vowed to ensure unhampered social services, environment protection, and good governance. She also pushes for women’s empowerment and accessible quality education for all. As a mother, Aguilar channels her instincts and compassion toward her people, positioning herself as a nurturing mother her constituents can lean on. And like every mother, she does everything to achieve the goals she sees best for Las Piñas residents.

Jeannie Sandoval (Malabon)

In 2022, Sandoval became the first female mayor of Malabon, adding more weight to the position, symbolizing change and a new class of leadership in the city. She envisions a genuine peoplecentric governance, which she began implementing as the Malabon Vice Mayor from 2013 to 2019. Her advocacies range from social welfare to women empowerment, and she also gets involved with other

Imelda Calixto-Rubiano (Pasay)

Thanks to her stint as a city councilor from 1998 to 2010 and as a two-term Congressional

Las Piñas

Mayor Imelda Aguilar (center) and Vice Mayor April Aguilar (right) during the blessing of their newlyacquired vehicles for city use

sectors such as healthcare, education, social services, and livelihood. Sandoval views public service as a calling to nurture for the benefit of Malabon residents.

Honey

Lacuna (Manila)

Manila has a long history of having male mayors leading the city, and in 2022, Lacuna broke the cycle by becoming the first female mayor. She began serving the public as a community center doctor and always considered her being soft or feminine as a strength that could help her guide others better. Her lofty dreams for the city include boosting its healthcare to be the best in the Philippines and building dwellings and other infrastructures that empower all Manileños in all their diversity.

Representative for Pasay from 2010 to 2019, incumbent Pasay Mayor Calixto-Rubiano became a household name to her constituents. Public service came easy to her, becoming a motherly gure to Pasay residents and implementing programs and projects to serve their interests. She prioritizes health within her city through various accessible services. The Pasay mayor also empowers the youth and women by giving them numerous opportunities to empower themselves.

Joy

Belmonte (Quezon City)

After serving as Quezon City’s vice mayor from 2010 to 2019, Belmonte refined her leadership brand before becoming mayor.

PASAY MAYOR REITERATES PLANS TO BECOME ‘ECOCITY’

Aside from devising an elaborate plan that propels Quezon City toward modernity, her vision for the city hails from an inclusive foundation as she promotes gender equality geared toward women and the LGBTQIA+ community. On the other hand, she also champions environment preservation and good governance, as evident in the breakthrough programs throughout Quezon City that earned various accolades and set the benchmark for other LGUs.

Lani Cayetano (Taguig)

From 2010 to 2019 and again in 2022, Cayetano was at the helm of Taguig. But besides focusing on Taguig’s growth, she believes the most significant investment she can make is empowering her constituents through diverse programs, with some dedicated to women.

“I AM determined to ensure that our Grand Vision for Pasay becomes a reality. The first ECO City in the Philippines! An EcoCity that is both ecologically and economically Dynamic–this is part of the master plan designed to improve services, revenues, and overall well-being of our residents,” said Pasay City Mayor Imelda “Emi” Calixto-Rubiano during the city’s flag ceremony last August 7, led by the Urban Development and Housing Office (UDHO).

Additionally, this goal aims to transform Pasay into a sustainable city using smart city technologies to create more employment opportunities, paving the way for new job opportunities to increase the city’s revenues and improve public services.

Calixto-Rubiano also welcomed and thanked the presence and arrival of Senator Bong Go, recalling his concern for the Pasayeños by providing services like the Malasakit Center at the Pasay City General Hospital and immediate aid to those in need.

The Mayor also acknowledged the role of the UDHO in providing decent housing for the people of Pasay, which she called In City Projects, as it equipped residents with a new home for residents while ful lling the EcoCity vision.

She once again invited the sta and Pasayeños to unite and celebrate her birthday as a family.

Besides the senator, actor Philip Salvador was also present. He was greeted by the mayor, Congressman Tony Calixto, Vice Mayor Ding del Rosario, the City Council, and sta of city government o ces.

As the wife of former Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, the Taguig Mayor recognizes the challenges of being affiliated with another politician in her career and personal life. Nonetheless, she continues to blaze her own path and do more for her city regardless of age and gender.

Metro Manila cities saw various improvements throughout the years with women in charge. As leaders, they’ve sparked significant change to benefit their constituents. As women, they’ve set an inspiring example of how women can be anything they want if they put their hearts and minds into it.

LAS PIÑAS LGU ACQUIRES NEW GARBAGE COMPACTOR TRUCKS, MOTORCYCLES

MAYOR Mel Aguilar and Vice Mayor April Aguilar inaugurated the new garbage compactor trucks and motorcycles purchased by the City Government in a simple ceremony held at Las Piñas City Hall last August 9. Such additional new garbage compactor trucks of the City Environment and Natural Resources (CENRO) will be used to expand its capacity to collect garbage in di erent areas to keep the city’s environment clean and healthy. The Traffic Parking and Management Office

TAGUIG PROGRAM PROMOTES MATERNAL HEALTH, INFANT NUTRITION

TO promote maternal health and infant nutrition, the Taguig City Nutrition O ce conducted a Dietary Supplementation Program for nutritionally-at-risk pregnant and lactating women last Wednesday, August 9, at View Deck BLC, Western Bicutan.

This initiative, a part of the Philippines’ Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN), aims to provide essential dietary supplements to pregnant and lactating women. It will run from August to October 2023.

Around 150 nutritionally-at-risk pregnant and lactating women received food packs containing eight kilos of iron-forti ed rice, iodized salt, cereal bars, and healthy snacks to help improve their nutritional status and their child’s health.

Alongside these provisions, the women also received educational pamphlets, which provide vital guidance for maternal care during the crucial rst 1,000 days postchildbirth.

(TPMO) will use the new motorcycles for road traffic management and prompt response to motorists in need.

Mayor Lani Cayetano’s Caring City agenda underscores the local government’s commitment to holistic care for pregnant and lactating women.

“Dito sa lungsod ng Taguig, ang pangarap natin ay makilala tayo bilang isang transformative, lively, at caring city. At bahagi ng ating Caring agenda ay ang pagsisiguro na nararamdaman ng mga nanay ang pagkalinga at atensyon ng lokal na pamahalaan ng Taguig. Gusto naming iparamdam sa mga nanay, kasama na rin ang tatay, na sila ay pinapahalagahan at inaalagaan ng kanilang city government,” said Mayor Lani in her speech.

EMPOWERING TRENDS AND SELF-EXPRESSION

By Nickie Wang

IN today’s dynamic tech landscape, a smartphone is more than mere communication; it’s a conduit of personal identity and a tool for setting trends.

A cutting-edge smartphone signifies embracing innovation, pioneering style, and setting new benchmarks, positioning yourself as a trendsetter who’s always a step ahead.

A smartphone crucially amplifies selfexpression, providing a platform to share passions and creativity. Through visuals, videos, and social media, it establishes deeper connections with a broader audience. Versatile apps let you channel your inner artist and entrepreneur, cultivating a digital persona that resonates.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 suits those who express themselves, share experiences, and view their device as an extension of who they are. Its premium design comes with an innovative cover screen, a slim hinge, and a standout aesthetic.

The FlexCam elevates selfies, capturing every angle with frontcamera DSLR-like photos, personal color tones, and wide and ultra-wide

capabilities. Flex Mode allows handsfree content creation and entertainment through the 6.7” FHD+ SA main display. For the trailblazer valuing performance, durability, and an onthe-go lifestyle, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 is a game-changer. With a slim design, a zero-gap hinge, and a 7.6” QXGA main display, it offers maximal productivity with an S-pen, multitasking interface, and unrivaled entertainment through cinematic viewing, gaming, and advanced cooling.

Samsung’s newest flagship smartphones – the Galaxy Z Flip5 and the Galaxy Z Fold5 are now available for pre-order through Smart Postpaid: the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 is best availed with Signature Device Plan 1999, which comes with 15 GB of open-access data, unlimited all-net calls and texts, and 150 minutes of calls to PLDT per month.

Subscribers who are looking for more data inclusions may also opt to avail the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 as an add-on to Signature Plan 1499, which includes Unlimited 5G for 12 months, 40 GB  open access data, and Unlimited Calls and Text to all networks, including landline calls. On the other hand, the new Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 is best paired with Infinity Plan 5000, which includes Unlimited Data, Unlimited Calls and Texts to All Networks, and Unlimited landline calls.

Subscribers are in for a treat when they avail of the new Samsung Galaxy Z Series with Smart until August 17 as all pre-orders come with exclusive discounts and perks.  Those who pre-order from Smart can enjoy a free storage upgrade at 512GB memory variant for the launch price of 256GB memory variant; free one-year

Samsung Care+ subscription worth P10,554; and discount vouchers on Samsung wearables of up to 50 percent off for the Galaxy Buds2 Pro and 30 percent off for the Galaxy Watch6 from the Samsung Online Store. To pre-order, head to a Smart Store or visit https://smart.com.ph/Postpaid/ GalaxyZSeries5.

THREE WAYS TO IMPROVE WELL-BEING THROUGH MUSIC

MUSIC is a soulful universal language that transcends boundaries, resonating deep within us. Harmony fuels self-reflection, regulation, and expression, fostering joy and bonds.

Janine Marie Flores, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde professor, underscores music’s therapeutic potency, easing stress, anxiety, and bolstering well-being. Clinical music therapy, guided by experts, enhances holistic health. Flores encourages three daily music-inspired wellness practices. Create a playlist. Specific types of music bring out certain emotional responses. This may be similar or different from one person to the other. Some may feel calm listening to rock or pop music, others find solace in ballads or jazz.

Identify feelings brought by particular genres. Use these to manifest calmness, improve the mood, spark creativity or inspire movement. If you want to shift from being upset to feeling happy, start with sad songs. Then, add happy-themed songs to change the mood into a more positive one. Sing. Singing releases endorphins and oxytocin, the “feel-good hormones”. It helps relieve pain, alleviate anxiety and stress, and boost mood. It also eases muscle tension, corrects posture, and refines breathing. It improves our lung capacity as we need to take deep breaths in order to sing properly. The act may even sharpen mental alertness, boost our confidence, increase our socialization skills, and develop more friendships.

Write songs Interpreting difficult circumstances through music fosters selfexpression, stress relief, and self-esteem. You can write music with or without words and improvise with various sounds and rhythmic patterns. This allows one to acknowledge, process, and regulate emotions.  Substitute your own words for lyrics. Play an instrument with an unplanned melody. Create a new tune.

Songwriting helps us process and regulate

our emotions, boosts self-expression, relieves stress, and increases self-esteem

REMEMBER that giddiness you felt when someone you like told you they liked you or something that you did? Today, a little blue thumbs-up symbol has the power to trigger that exact feel-good reaction.

No wonder so many people are hopelessly hooked on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and other social media platforms. “It’s been proven that social media ‘likes’ affect that part of our brain that has to do with rewards,” says Edgardo Juan Tolentino, MD, Chairman of the Neurological Sciences of the top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “The more ‘likes’ you get, the greater the release of dopamine, a hormone associated with happiness.”

That’s a lot of happiness hormones for Pinoys. In the updated study “Social Media Statistics in the Philippines,” which is based on a Digital 2023 Global Overview Report, a staggering 84.45 million Filipinos (72.5 percent of the country’s population) spend an average of 3 hours and 43 minutes glued to their choice of social media platforms.

Keeping in touch with family and friends was the chief reason for using social media, say respondents. But don’t be surprised if they stay for their dopamine fix, too: 30 percent of the total users are between the ages of 18 and 24 years old, the ages that seek attention, validation, and a sense of identity.

It’s certainly a tough age to be at a time of fake news, cyberbullying, and love scams. “As great as social media is, it’s traced to depression, isolation, ruined reputations, financial debt, and lives lost of vulnerable individuals,” Dr. Tolentino points out.

Appreciation via likes, followers, and positive comments is fine, but relying on them breeds insecurity. Genuine relationships offline aid mental health. Dr. Tolentino suggests self-assuredness, valuing real connections, and discerning reliable online spaces from harmful ones promoting self-doubt or harm.

“Above all, before you want anybody to like you, you have to like yourself first.” Read full story on manilastandard.net

IS SOCIAL MEDIA GOOD FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH?

The powerful and stylish Galaxy Z Fold5 and Flip5

J-Hope in Galaxy Z Flip5 campaign video

A screengrab of Galaxy Z Flip5 official film on YouTube

Janine Marie Flores is a parttime faculty under the Music Production Program of the De La SalleCollege of Saint Benilde School of Arts, Culture, and Performance

MILO RIVERA, Issue Editor

ON THE ROAD

ISUZU PH RENEWS TRADE-SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP TO ENHANCE TRUCK LEARNING

ISUZU Philippines Corporation (IPC) and the Jacobo Z. Gonzales Memorial School of Arts & Trade (JZGMSAT) have solidified their commitment to quality education and knowledge-sharing through the renewal of their memorandum of agreement (MOA).

IPC, led by President Tetsuya Fujita and Executive Vice President Shojiro Sakoda, handed over a state-of-the-art 4-post lifter with wheel aligner, along with a unit of the Isuzu D-MAX pick-up, to TESDA CALABARZON Regional Director Baron Jose Lagran and JZGMSAT Vocational School Administrator Benito Reyes.

GEELY MAKES MOVE WITH GX3 PRO LAUNCH, INTRODUCES G-SERV+

New segment challenger makes grand entrance to PH market

GEELY, renowned for making premium features as accessible as ever, introduces the all-new GX3 Pro subcompact crossover.

This model fuses Geely’s proven performance with luxury touches, delivering an unbeatable package of advanced features to the young and entry-level market. Starting at an affordable price of P778K for the 5-speed manual transmission (S variant), the GX3 Pro redefines innovation, performance, and affordability, exceeding the expectations of Filipino drivers.

Dynamic Performance at Your Fingertips

Navigating city streets or embarking on spontaneous getaways becomes effortless with the GX3 Pro’s dynamic 1.5-liter naturally-aspirated gasoline engine, delivering 102 horsepower and 142 Nm of torque. The GX3 Pro adapts to various

driving scenarios with its versatile 3-driving modes – Normal, Eco, and Sport.

The GX3 Pro S variant offers a reverse camera with dynamic guidelines and a backup sensor. For enhanced comfort, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) variant (Comfort variant) includes cruise control, traction and stability control, a sunroof for a touch of luxury, and

two airbags.

Effortless Style and Power

At 4,005mm long, 1,760mm wide, and 1,575mm tall, the GX3 Pro makes a statement on any road. Its exterior radiates sophistication, while the interior showcases a spacious cabin with premium upholstery and cutting-edge technology.

Alongside its focus on the GX3 Pro’s style and function, Geely is also committed to after-sales customer experience with the launch of G-SERV+.

Geely President and CEO Yugo Kiyofuji says, “With G-SERV+, we are confident that Geely owners will enjoy peace of mind throughout their ownership journey, fostering a sense of belonging within the Geely family.”

GOMO TAKES YOU TO THE SINGAPORE GP

GOMO, the Philippines’ leading fully-digital telco renowned for unforgettable experiences, is back with another electrifying offering – the pulse-pounding Singapore Grand Prix adventure. Harnessing the innovative ‘Mo Creds feature within its lifestyle app, GOMO propels racing enthusiasts into the heart of the action.

In its second year, GOMO introduces the ultimate ‘Mo Creds Raffle, promising the GOMO Fam an all-expenses-paid journey to the upcoming September 2023 Singapore Grand Prix, complete with exclusive Paddock Club Access for the Grand Prize victor.

To be part of this thrill-filled opportunity, fans can accumulate raffle tickets by trading their No Expiry GBs for select offers bundled with raffle tickets via ‘Mo Creds on the GOMO PH app. Participating in the ‘Mo Creds Raffle is as easy as 1-2-3:

1. Launch your GOMO PH app and navigate to ‘Mo Creds.

2. Opt for the “Raffle” tab and select your preferred voucher.

3. Swap your GBs and confirm the conversion!

Furthermore, GOMO has teamed up with beIN SPORTS CONNECT, the premier sports streaming service in the region and official broadcaster of Grand Prix races across Asia from 2023 to 2025. With ‘Mo Creds, subscribers can trade their GBs for beIN SPORTS CONNECT vouchers, granting access to live and on-demand coverage of toptier sports, including the adrenaline-pumping Grand Prix action. For a mere 10GB, a month of beIN SPORTS CONNECT access becomes as seamless as a pit stop.

The ‘Mo Creds Raffle Promo runs until August 20. Seize the power of data with ‘Mo Creds and experience unstoppable excitement with GOMO.

CHANGAN’S AUGUST BONUS.

Changan Philippines unveils the captivating Changan August Bonus Discount promo! Reserve any New Changan CS35 Plus variant between August 10 and 31, 2023, and enjoy a substantial P35,000 discount.

Early birds who test-drive or reserve from August 10 to 16, 2023, will also earn exclusive tickets for the Changan August Bonus Raffle. Win thrilling prizes including an Apple iPad Pro, two Apple Airpods Max, and three P10,000 shopping vouchers! For complete promo details, visit CMPI National Headquarters (Calamba, Laguna) or the nearest authorized Changan dealership. More information is available at www.changanphil.com or chat with CAIA on ChanganPhil through Facebook.

Initiated in 2017, this CSR initiative has previously provided the school with essential resources such as desktop computers, mock-up Diesel engines, and two units of automotive lifters, all actively used by service mechanic trainees in practical classes.

Following the spirit of their Auto Mechanic school in Tacloban, IPC extends specialized training programs within the MOA. These programs encompass Diesel Engine Technology, Common Rail Fuel System, and Engine Management System, enhancing the company’s knowledgesharing efforts.

HONDA GENUINE ACCESSORIES MADE MORE ACCESSIBLE, AFFORDABLE

HONDA Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) is delighted to extend an exclusive invitation to customers seeking to dress up or personalize their Honda vehicles. Avail huge savings of up to 88% offered on select Honda Genuine Accessories until August 31, 2023.

Customers can enjoy peace of mind and value for money as Honda Genuine Accessories have been carefully designed by a dedicated team of accessory engineers to ensure quality, durability, and functionality.

Meticulously crafted, Honda Genuine Accessories seamlessly integrate with Honda vehicles, offering a harmonious fusion of style and performance. Designed to complement the vehicle’s structure and safety systems, Honda Genuine Accessories are fashioned from premium materials and have successfully passed Honda’s global quality assurance standards.

Interested customers may visit any of HCPI’s 37 dealerships nationwide to know more about Honda Genuine Accessories. Customers may also check availability through HCPI’s website www.hondaphil. com and Lazmall Flagship store.

To provide its customers with better convenience and low maintenance cost throughout vehicle ownership, Honda is requiring only two periodic maintenance visits annually, or every 6 months or 10,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. Learn more about the maintenance schedule of your Honda, as well as the estimated cost of service visits, parts checking and replacement guide, and more at https:// www.hondaphil.com/maintenance.

Keep your vehicle in pristine condition!

Know the recommended standard cost for your vehicle’s periodic maintenance through the recently launched Periodic Maintenance Cost Calculator at https:// hondaphil.com/pm-cost-calculator.

Head to www.hondaphil.com or visit the nearest Honda Cars dealership to know more about the Honda Genuine Accessories, and all the latest offers from Honda.

ENTERTAINMENT

NADINE LUSTRE GRATEFUL FOR FILMS’ MULTIPLE NODS AT FAMAS AWARDS 2023

By Nickie Wang

MULTIMEDIA star Nadine

Lustre expressed gratitude for 71st Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) Awards nominations for her films Deleter and Greed, which earned a total of 11 nods from the prestigious award-giving body.

Techno-horror film Deleter directed by Mikhail Red, starring Nadine Lustre and Louise Delos Reyes received eight nominations across both acting and technical categories, including Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress (Delos Reyes), Best Director ( Red), Best Screenplay (Nikolas Red and Mikhail Red), Best Editing (Nikolas Red), Best Cinematography (Ian Alexander Guevara), Best Musical Score, and Best Sound.

VivaMax film, suspense-drama Greed directed by Yam Laranas and also stars Nadine together with Diego Loyzaga received three nominations: Best Actress (Nadine), Best Actor (Diego Loyzaga) and Best Production Design (James Rosendal). Nadine is nominated for Best Actress alongside recently-signed VAA artist Heaven Peralejo

“Jumping on this a bit late… it feels so so unreal.

Truly grateful for all the nominations FAMAS Awards,” Nadine said in a social media post.

Meanwhile, another VivaMax film, suspense-thriller

Reroute directed by Law Fajardo and starring Cindy Miranda, John Arcilla, and Sid Lucero also received six nominations including Best Actor (Arcilla), Best Supporting Actor (Lucero), Best Production Design (Fajardo), Best Editing (Fajardo), Best Cinematography (Joshua Reyes) and Best Sound.

In a statement sent to Manila Standard Entertainment, Viva said it will continue to produce top-quality films for the Filipino audience as it continues to expand its variety of offerings with projects from Viva Films, VivaMax, and the recentlylaunched Studio Viva.

Expect more award-worthy projects to come in the future, including Call Me Alma which is written by National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee and directed by McArthur Alejandre. The movie starring Jaclyn Jose, Azi Acosta, Mon Confiado, Josef Elizalde, Gold Aceron, and Aiko Garcia premiered at Cinema Felipe (PICC) on August 10.

KD ESTRADA, ALEXA ILACAD REVEAL RELATIONSHIP STATUS

A deglamorized Nadine Lustre in her comeback film ‘Greed’

NO LONGER JUST FRIENDS. KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad are now in ‘courtship stage’

KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad, also known as KDLex, discuss their blossoming romance and personal goals in an interview with Bernadette Sembrano in Tao Po, airing today.

In the interview, KD and Alexa admitted that they are now in the “courtship stage.”

“We really make an effort to be each other’s support system,” said KD.

“He gives me that peace in life and that feeling of contentment in the situation I’m in,” Alexa said in turn.

Also in the interview, the PiraPirasong Paraiso co-stars share their story of how they built a connection long before they established their love team when they were housemates inside the Pinoy Big Brother house. KDLex will also melt hearts as they belt out their hit song “Misteryo” in this episode.

In the same episode, reporter Dyan Castillejo on the other hand will chat with Filipinas co-captain Hali Long about the struggles and obstacles the Philippine women’s football team faced on their long and historic journey toward FIFA. While, Kabayan Noli De Castro features Erico Mendez, a PWD street vendor from Batangas who ventured to Manila in search of his lost son who, he believes, is a salvage victim.

Tao Po airs every Sunday at 6:15 p.m. on Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, Kapamilya Online Live, and ABS-CBN News Online.

SB19, THE JUANS CAPTURE FILIPINO TEAM SPIRIT IN COLLAB SINGLE

A LOCAL telco has released a song that captures the Filipino team spirit, tapping the country’s P-pop kings, SB19, and rock band, The Juans, for the new Pinoy anthem.

The upbeat song, “Team Tayo,” rallies Filipinos to go for their dreams and trust that they are never alone.

The song, a follow-up collaboration between the two bands who gave Pinoy music fans “Push ang Pusuan” (2020) and “TM FunPasko” (2021), peaks in its infectious chorus that repeats “Basta’t team tayo.”

“Through this song created in collaboration with SB19 and The Juans, we hope to show every Filipino that TM is committed to be our kababayans’ teammate on both good and bad days,” said Pia Gonzalez-Colby Globe’s Chief Marketing Officer.

The Juans vocalist Carl Guevarra spoke about the inspiration for the song.

“We wanted to write a song that would speak about the stories of an ordinary ‘Juan’ like us. It’s a song that will speak to real stories and real situations of our listeners,” he said.

He also shared how “there’s always something special that happens” whenever the band works with SB19.

“One of our heartbeats is we both want to uplift ordinary Filipinos. It’s so natural to just give back that message kasi it’s not just a slogan, it’s not just a statement, but it’s the lifestyle that we both live,” Guevarra said.

SB19 band leader Pablo Nase said creating beautiful music through collaboration is all about working together– echoing TM’s message of teamwork.

“It’s difficult being in a group since we have different creative thoughts or creative na pinanggagalingan. But it’s about maturity. And you can create something good out of it because na-cha-challenge ‘yung thoughts niyo,” he said.

“Team Tayo” marks TM’s, Globe’s value brand, bold leap forward as it expands its services to cover both mobile and broadband, with TMBayan Fiber WiFi.

To listen to the new TM anthem “Team Tayo,” check out this link: https://bit.ly/tmteamtayo.

Nadine in Mikhail Red’s psychological thriller ‘Deleter’ John Arcilla, Cindy Miranda, and Sid Lucero in another VivaMax film ‘Reroute’

DISCOVER CAVITE'S HIDDEN CULINARY GEMS:

CALAX A BOON FOR FOODIES

HEADING SOUTH OF MANILA

AT THE heart of Silang, Cavite stands Cafe Agapita, a charming family-owned dining spot that has developed a loyal following despite opening in the middle of a raging pandemic in 2020.

"Most of our customers are from Metro Manila," said Trish Baranda, who runs the cafe with her dad and her brother, and her cousin Gian who is also a chef.

"We became known through word of mouth. We have bikers' groups who come here during weekends, and runners' groups, too. It helps that we have a huge space and al fresco areas so during the height of the pandemic, people felt safe to dine with us and have fun bonding moments with their family and loved ones," Baranda said.

The young entrepreneur credits the ease of mobility afforded by the Cavite-Laguna Expressway or Calax as it has significantly cut the travel time from Metro Manila to its southern neighbors.

"Calax is really a big help. Before, those who come to Cavite are those who have homes in Cavite. But now people are coming here because they want to explore what we have to offer," Baranda added.

In September, the Calax Silang-Aguinaldo interchange is set to open its barrier-less booths for quicker access to Silang and Tagaytay, according to Arlette Capistrano, MPT South's Vice President for Communication.

Construction manager Wilson Bontigao said the new subsection of the expressway is expected to serve an additional 5,000 motorists daily on top of the 40,000 daily capacity at present.

He said the Silang-Aguinaldo Interchange will

add about four kilometers more to the operational subsections of the expressway starting from the Greenfield-Mamplasan toll barrier in Biñan, Laguna.

"This expressway will create job opportunities, attract investments, and stimulate economic activity, especially for MSMEs like Cafe Agapita that has a become destination in itself," Capistrano added.

Aside from its rich-tasting coffee drinks and home-baked bread, pastries, and cakes, the cafe's showstopper is the Agapita Bun, an homage to Baranda's grandmother, Nanay Agapita.

"I think we are the only ones who offer this kind of bun. It is unique because it is filled with

menudo -- the dry kind that our grandmother has become known for, serving the dish during fiestas," Baranda said.

She recalled that their household was open even to random visitors during fiestas. There's bagnet aglio olio that is worth every sinful bite, as well as the twicecooked adobo and beef tapa flakes.

Other dishes "proudly feature" ingredients that are sourced from Silang, Baranda said, such as their focaccia bread with herbs and edible flowers and their piña shortcake.

As for Capistrano, success stories of businesses, such as Cafe Agapita, that benefitted from Calax make the literal journey worth it.

LIK·HAIN: CONTEMPORARY RENDITIONS OF FILIPINO CLASSICS

ON AUGUST 15 and 30, 2023, The Westin Manila is offering a gastronomic experience that celebrates the Filipino culinary heritage at Seasonal Tastes.

The six-course degustation by Executive Chef Rej Casanova will feature contemporary and creative renditions of classic Filipino cuisine paired with biodynamic wines.

"I want to share my pride and love for our own dishes," Casanova said.

"After all, my love of cooking began with my mother and grandmother's home cooked Filipino meals. Heirloom recipes bring me comfort, and I was fascinated by our local produce, cooking traditions, and the numerous ways we can turn them into delicious memories with the family even when I was little,” he added.

Casanova, who is marking his 15th

year in the industry, said Lik·Hain will reflect his love for creating and serving Filipino dishes.

"For Lik·Hain, I'm bringing together those memories and flavors and turning them into delectable plates with a variety of textures, forms, and compositions. I make sure that whatever well-loved favorite I recreate remains true to the flavors that have become familiar to the local palate and that they standout with every bite.”

The six-course dinner will open with an amuse bouche which is inspired and named after “isaw,” Casanova’s favorite street food.

"It is actually chicken liver mousse on a garlic breadstick with onion ash, spiced vinegar gel, and shallotsm” he said.

It will be followed by Casanova’s version of the popular “kilawin,” composed of

tuna tartare, calamansi, cilantro dressing, green mango, and chili-tomato glaze.

Casanova's interpretation of “bulalo,” a warm and comforting beef consommé, includes braised oxtail in cabbage confit and served with sweet corn pudding and bone marrow cream.

“Ginataan” is a seafood entrée with slow-cooked confit emperor fish, pumpkin mousseline, coconut cream, and laing. To give the dish an added flair, Casanova assembled the labuyo caviar and crispy rice cracker to look like pearls and a seashell.

The main course is his version of the Beef Steak Tagalog, which involves panroasted Australian beef rump fillet, Adlai rice with malunggay chimichurri, onion textures, and calamansi and soy emulsion.

A deconstructed “halo-halo” makes for the perfect ending, with sweet surprises

spread out in a bowl. It is composed of caramelized custard, langka compote, red bean purée, nata de coco, condensed milk pudding, coconut Chantilly, crispy milk foam, and ube granita.

"All the dishes will be prepared and plated on the live cooking stations so guests can see all the action unfold in front of them,” Casanova said.

(The Lik·Hain degustation menu is available on August 15 and 30, 2023, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., at P4,000 nett per person. For table reservations and inquiries, email westinmanila@westin.com or call +632.8256.2020.)

Cafe Agapita is one of many local businesses that have benefitted from the Cavite-Laguna Expressway. The SilangAguinaldo section (shown in photo) will be open to the public next month.

Cafe Agapita bakes its own bread, pastries and cakes.

PETS CAT EAR AILMENTS

ON DOG SCRATCHING

DOGS scratch themselves from time to time. But if you observe continuous scratching, licking, and chewing, it is best to bring your dog to the vet for a check-up immediately. There are numerous potential reasons for your dog's itchiness. While scratching is frequently triggered by fleas or other parasites, it can also signal an underlying condition Causes

Hillary Parker, in “Dogs and Compulsive Scratching, Licking, and Chewing” in Web MD, gave some reasons for dog scratching and what you can do to help your dog:

1. Skin Allergy

Dogs encounter numerous allergens like pollen, molds, dust, and insects (particularly fleas).

“While food allergies are a potential issue, they are not as widespread as some might assume,” Parker said.

2. Hormonal imbalance

“If your dog’s body is not producing enough thyroid hormone or putting out too much of the hormone cortisol, skin infections can occur,” Parker noted.

There may be bald spots which your dog will scratch and lick continuously.

3. Pain

By Mariana Burgos

IS YOUR cat scratching his or her ears more than usual? Do you detect any difference in your cat's ears? If this is the case, your cat may be suffering from one of the most frequent cat ear issues.

It is important to understand the most frequent ear problems that a cat might have, as well as the signs to check for. If one or more ear trouble symptoms are seen, it is always better to take your cat to your veterinarian's office for an ear examination.

In the article "Feline Ear Disorders," the Cornell Feline Health Center (CFHC) at the College of Veterinary Medicine of Cornell University said a cat is capable of detecting sounds ranging in frequency of up to about 60,000 vibrations per second or greater. This is three times more than a human's capacity.

It noted that most cats will live their lives without encountering a severe problem with their ears. However, if they do have a specific ailment, it can be very painful and impair an animal's hearing.

James Flanders, DVM, an associate professor of surgery at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine said that most feline ear disorders are readily treatable and will not result in permanent hearing loss but some conditions may render a cat partially or totally deaf if they remain

unrecognized and untreated.

Two classifications of ear ailments

The same article provided two (2) general classifications of cat ear ailments: the congenital conditions and the acquired disorders.

Congenital conditions are ailments that are genetically transmitted from parents to offspring. One of these is a hereditary abnormality known as "fold-ears," in which the tip of a cat's pinna is twisted sharply either toward or away from the skull. This strange syndrome is seldom connected with hearing loss. Cats with particularly deformed ears, on the other hand, typically have skeletal issues that might be problematic.

Flanders said that another predominantly heritable condition is atresia, which is a “fault” in the development of the ear canal that can result in partial or entire occlusion of the channel. He explained that a wall forms in the ear canal, making it difficult or impossible for sound to reach the cochlea. He said that it is occasionally movable, and if this wall can be removed, hearing may be restored.

Some cats are born deaf, and the condition cannot be remedied. White cats with blue eyes are the most vulnerable to congenital deafness due to a genetic abnormality. Flanders said around 80 per cent of white cats with two blue eyes will begin to show indications of deafness around the age of four days due to cochlear degeneration. Most cat ear ailments are acquired, according to the same article. Cats who are constantly fighting or scratching their ears excessively, for example, may develop hematoma, a deposit of blood from damaged vessels that gathers between the skin covering the ear and the underlying cartilage. They may also be affected by polyps, which are tiny growths that protrude from the surface of a mucous membrane; and squamous cell carcinoma, which can appear on the ear tips and is more common in cats that are often exposed to intense sunlight.

A cat's eardrum thickens with age. Hearing problems and probable deafness are common in older cats. Deafness can also arise as a side effect of some drugs, such as antibiotics or diuretics.

Flanders said the most prevalent is otitis externa, an infection of the outer ear canal. This condition is caused by an infection of the ear canal with infectious organisms, most often ear mites.

Otitis externa is most common in cats who are predisposed to seborrhea, a skin condition

characterized by excessive oily discharge from the sebaceous glands. As a result, excess ear wax accumulates, allowing invading mites, germs, and other creatures to thrive. If otitis externa is not treated properly, the infection can spread to the middle ear (otitis media) and the inner ear (otitis interna). In the most severe cases, the eardrum and inner ear might be irreversibly destroyed, resulting in hearing (impairment) and an acute impairment of balance on the afflicted side or sides due to the condition's influence on the vestibular system.

Ways to prevent ear ailments in cats

Flanders gave a few simple tips:

1. Reduce the amount of time your cat is exposed to direct sunlight, especially if it is white or faintly colored.

2. Keep your surroundings clean to prevent the spread of ear mites and other potentially infectious pathogens.

3. Examine your cat's ears on a regular basis for indications of infection such as swelling, discharge, discoloration, and dirt and debris accumulation.

4. And, if symptoms persist, consult your veterinarian for assistance.

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

TIPS TO HELP A FAT CAT LOSE WEIGHT

By Niko Gabriel Salgado

A FAT cat might encounter significant issues. Her life expectancy could be considerably reduced, she might experience injuries while leaping due to added strain on the joints and ligaments, and she might not be able to engage in playful activities anymore.

A fat cat might also develop diabetes and heart diseases.

But helping your cat lose weight is not that simple. There are a few things to consider before starting this journey.

“Cat dieting is not as simple as restricting food, and rapid weight loss can be very dangerous. Any cat weight loss plan should be a collaboration between you and your vet,” said Dr. Krista Seraydar in “Cat Dieting: How to Help Your Cat Lose

Weight” in Pet MD website. Seraydar shared the following to support your cat’s weight loss goals in a safe and controlled way.

1. Cat Weight Loss Food Most cat weight loss diets will be a combination of either:

High Fiber/Low Fat: Increase the fiber content in your cat's diet to promote a sense of fullness and add volume to their food intake. This allows them to eat more while feeling satisfied.

High Protein/Low Carbohydrate: Through this diet, your pet's stomach emptying process can be delayed, leading to a prolonged feeling of fullness.

“The higher water content in wet food can help with weight loss by increasing the volume of food without increasing the calorie count,” Seraydar said.

2. Exercise

Cats also get bored with monotonous routines. To keep things interesting, offer ample vertical climbing spaces and regularly switch between different toys. Incorporate short, energetic play sessions throughout the day. Remember that cats are designed for bursts of speed, not prolonged endurance, so aim for five to ten minutes of activity during each playtime.

3. Automatic Feeders

“Feeding your cat by using automatic feeders can help get your cat get accustomed to scheduled meals, which can help with weight loss and long-term weight management,” Seraydar noted.

Employ a puzzle feeder to stimulate both physical and mental activity in your cat. These effectively combat boredom and control the quantity of food your cat consumes.

“When trying to determine why your dog is licking or chewing excessively, be sure to consider the possibility that something is making them physically uncomfortable,” Parker said. He added that compulsive chewing or licking may be due to orthopedic problems such as arthritis and hip dysplasia.

4. Parasites

The most common causes are fleas, ticks, and mites.

“Although ticks are often visible to the naked eye, fleas often go unseen until there is a large infestation, and mites are microscopic. Don’t assume that your dog isn’t suffering from parasites just because you can’t see them,” Parker said.

Possible Treatment:

Parker listed the following:

1. Eliminating parasites

In cases where fleas are the cause, make sure to regularly clean to reduce possibility of re-infestation. Ask your vet for a suitable tick and flea product and also treat any other animals in the household.

2. Change in diet

The significance of high-quality dog food in their diet plays a crucial role in preserving their skin and coat, even for dogs without food allergies. Grains are uncommon causes of food allergies and most pets are allergic to animal proteins. A special diet may be recommended by your vet.

3. Medication

You veterinarian will prescribe medicine if needed. Parker said your vet may recommend topical or antibiotics, steroids or anti-itch products to treat hot spots or skin infections.

4. Addressing anxiety and boredom

Sometimes, anxiety and boredom in dogs manifest in excessive scratching and licking. Like humans, dogs can have physical responses to being psychologically upset.

To reduce this, Parker urged owners to make sure your dog receives enough exercise, attention, and love.

“It can also be helpful to train your dog to chew on toys or bones to relieve stress” Parker added. Niko Gabriel Salgado

A cat weight chart. (Photo from Ziwi US.)

A dog scratches his ear. (Photo from Adobe Stock | photo-vista.)

A dog licks his body. (Photo from iStock | yellowsarah.)

A ginger cat’s ear is being examined by a vet. (Photo from iStock royalty-free images.)

A vet checks the ears of a black cat. (Photo from iStock royalty-free images.)

A fat cat must lose weight to prevent illnesses. ( Photo from iStock | Socreative.) Owners can look for ways to “exercise” their cats. (Photo from iStock | Yamac.)

A ginger cat scratches her ear. (Photo from iStock royalty-free images.)