Manila Standard - 2023 August 15 - Tuesday

LTFRB LOOKING FOR ‘MERIT’ IN P2 PUV FARE HIKE

Solons: No Ayungin deal ever

Estrada brothers back Erap vs. China claims; PCG wary of ‘informers’

By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Vince Lopez

TWO senators on Monday defended their father, former President Joseph “Erap” Estrada, from claims that he made a deal with the Chinese government to remove the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal.

“During my phone conversation today with former Senator Orly Mercado, who held the position of Defense Secretary during my father’s tenure, he confirmed that there was ‘no agreement or promise’ whatsoever made to the Chinese government,” Senator Jinggoy Estrada said in a statement Monday.

In a previous interview with CNN Philippines, Chinese diplomatic sources claimed Manila promised Beijing that it would tow away the outpost.

“Any assertion of such a commitment contradicts the rationale behind the gov-

ernment’s decision at that time to station BRP Sierra Madre at the shoal. This move was primarily undertaken to assert our country’s claim and establish a presence in the area,” Estrada continued. Beijing asked Manila to tow away the “illegally grounded” ship after the Chinese Coast Guard fired a water cannon at Filipino vessels on a resupply mission to the outpost last Aug. 5.

In response, President Marcos said that the ship would stay and

Chinese envoy repeats WPS feelers; Offer ‘obfuscatory’, says Villafuerte

By

THE Chinese Embassy on Monday again urged the Philippines to meet China halfway over the maritime dispute through diplomatic dialogues but insisted that the country tow away the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal, which is well within the Philip -

pines’ exclusive economic zone.

Chinese Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Zhou Zhiyong made the statement more than a week after the Chinese Coast Guard used water cannons against Philippine vessels trying to resupply Filipino soldiers on Ayungin Shoal.

In a forum, Zhou insisted that Ayungin Shoal, which he called Ren’ai Reef, is part

By Joel Zurbano

Wages of private, public sector workers heading in opposite directions

Retailers nix P150 legislated wage hikeDBM: P48m ready for gov’t specialists

By Othel Campos

AT LEAST 200,000 workers in the retail sector may lose their jobs if lawmakers push through with their proposed P150 across-the-board legislated daily wage hike, the country’s biggest group of retailers warned Monday. Opposing the legislated wage hike, the Philippine Retailers Association said the proposed measure will result in an increase in the unemployment rate and the possible shutdown of micro and small businesses.

“Our concern with the wage hike is that it will bring up labor prob -

PBBM, VP Sara vow raises for teachers’ pay

By Charles Dantes, Macon Ramos-Araneta, and Joel E. Zubano

lems. We’re not talking here of labor unrest, but more of businesses retiring or laying off workers to squeeze the wage hike into the companies’ operating budget,” said PRA president Roberto Claudio.

“The legislated wage hike must be synchronized with our inflation and ability to generate investments,” he added.

He said the PRA is convinced that many of its members are bound to streamline their workforce to accommodate the possibility of increasing the daily minimum wage by at least

By Julito Rada

THE Department of Budget and Management is eyeing to increase the salary structures, allowances, and other benefits of state workers.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said P48 million has been allocated from the approved Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) budget this year to engage specialist services for a comprehensive review of the compensation and position classification system for the government sector.

“When it comes to implementing another round of increases, President

Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed us to conduct a study to ensure that the compensation of our civilian government personnel becomes generally competitive to those working in the private sector,” she said.

“This is to encourage our kababayan (countrymen) to enter the government, and to motivate our existing employees to stay in government and perform well,” the Budget chief added.

A parallel review of the various benefits received across different ranks of the civil service spectrum is also being performed by the DBM to determine if

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday vowed to fulfill his campaign promise of a salary increase for teachers as he ordered the Department of Education (DepEd) to look for ways to do it.

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PRESIDENT-PAINTER. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. repaints chairs in a classroom during his visit to Victorino Mapa High School in San Miguel, Manila on Monday as part of the annual Brigada Eskwela that prepares schools for the opening of classes on Aug. 29. Joining the President is Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Z. Duterte. Rolando Mailo

‘FIRE SURVIVORS IN MAUI WON’T GO HOME

Taguig rejects Makati proposal to provide gear for 30k students

Vietnam and India to ensure an adequate supply of rice for Filipinos at affordable prices. (See story on A2) Manny Palmero

Rey E. Requejo, Maricel V. Cruz and Vince Lopez

Binay Abalos

Cayetano

‘Firesurvivors not going home to PH’

By Rey E. Requejo

FILIPINOS based on the island of Maui, Hawaii are not likely to seek repatriation despite the massive wildfires that devastated the town of Lahaina, the Department of Foreign Affairs said on Monday.

DFA Assistant Secretary Paul Cortes, citing his conversation with the Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce, said Filipinos whose homes were burned down by the wildfires were already evacuated by authorities to shelters also within Maui.

“Our countrymen in the US are permanent residents. That means they are already living there, and it’s unlikely that they will ask for repatriation like

LTFRB looking for ‘merit’ in P2 fare hike pleas

By Rio N. Araja

THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regularity Board (LTFRB) is studying the request of some transport groups asking for a P2 fare increase for jeepneys for the first four kilometers.

LTFRB chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III said he recognizes the rights of the operators and drivers to seek a fare increase amid the rising prices of pump products.

Guadiz said the request will be studied to determine whether the fare hike has merit.

“There are many factors to consider when reviewing fare hike petitions or requests. These factors should be carefully studied, reviewed, and validated by the Board before we can allow any fare hikes. We understand the urgency of the situation and that is why the Board will convene to determine if the fare hike request has merit,” he said.

On Friday, the Liga ng Transportasyon at Operators sa Pilipinas (LTOP), Stop and Go Transport Coalition Incorporated (Stop & Go), and the Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines (FEJODAP) formally petitioned the LTFRB for the price hike in PUJs.

our compatriots caught in the crisis situations in Sudan or in Turkey,” Cortes said in an interview with GMA News.

“In this case, since they live in the United States, and they have the US government assisting them as well, it’s unlikely that they will ask for repatriation,” he added.

Cortes, however, said the DFA will assist any Philippine passport holders who may still wish to be repatriated.

The Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce earlier said hundreds of Filipinos were among the more than 1,000 missing in the wildfires which erupted last week.

DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega on Sunday said there are about 25,000 Filipino-Americans in Maui, which comprised 17 percent of the island’s population.

De Vega also said there were no confirmed Filipino deaths arising from the wildfires.

Meanwhile, the Filipino community on Maui is bracing for a long wait to determine the status of Filipinos affected by the wildfires.

Kit Zulueta Furukawa, director of the Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce, said the authorities in Maui have

advised families with missing relatives to submit their DNA for matching with the recovered bodies.

“The priority of the local authorities here is the safety of the first responder and to secure the area... I think there are efforts that will come eventually for [a] list of names. I’m no expert but this is fire-burned victims so I can see reports of experts flown in from other places. As I mentioned, they are bringing experts with expertise in identifying bodies,” Furukawa said in an interview with GMA News. Search and recovery teams are leaving orange X marks on houses they have checked as they continue to look for human remains in areas where they have recovered burnt bodies.

Kerosene, diesel lead 6th week of fuel price hikes

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE country’s oil firms raised the price of diesel and kerosene for the sixth consecutive week effective 6 a.m. Tuesday by P1.50 per liter and P2.50 per liter, respectively.

The oil firms also raised the price of gasoline for the fifth consecutive week by P1.90 per liter to reflect the movement of prices in the world oil market.

Phoenix Petroleum Philippines announced the price hikes in its advisory, followed by Jetti Petroleum, Cleanfuel, Chevron Philippines, and PetroGazz.

Speaker, solons see hikes in rice, onion prices

By Maricel V. Cruz

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G.

Romualdez and two party-list legislators on Monday visited two markets in Quezon City to assess the spikes in the prices of onion and rice.

Romualdez and ACT-CIS Reps. Erwin Tulfo and Edvic Yap went to Nepa Q-Mart in Cubao, and Commonwealth Market to conduct surprise market visits to assess the prices of rice and other basic commodities.

“We came here due to reports that prices are rising again and to ask onion, rice and garlic vender what caused the increase,” Romualdez told reporters.

He said the House is treating the fight against hoarders and price manipulators “very seriously.”

P100 to a maximum of P150.

“So they’ll give them higher wages, but they’ll reduce everything to the bottom. They will reduce workers, that’s a fact,” Claudio said.

He said the manufacturing sector will likely take a hit as he urged the government to allow companies, particularly those with labor unions, to work out the wage issue among themselves.

“Most companies have their own labor unions. Let them work it out,” he said.

He said retailers and manufacturers are more likely to cooperate and comply with the wage board or the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs) decision on wage concerns.

Claudio said with the legislated wage hike, “everybody will be obligated to follow the law no matter how dire a company’s financial status is.”

However, senators, led by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, are pushing for a P150 legislated wage hike across the country.

“I know many businessmen will be mad at me, but they also need to share their blessings with workers,” Zubiri said.

The latest Pulse Asia survey conducted from June 19 to 23 shows that the two most urgent national concerns overall were controlling inflation and increasing the pay of workers.

Pulse Asia also surveyed Filipinos on how much they spend on regular monthly household expenses such as housing, food, electricity, water, communications, transportation, and the like.

Some 38 percent of the respondents answered P15,001 or more, while 17 percent answered P14,001 to P15,000 and only 13 percent said they spent lower than P8,000.

Respondents were likewise asked whether or not they are in favor of the proposal to increase by P150 the daily minimum wage of workers in the private sector.

that any supposed deal on its removal was rescinded.

Senator JV Ejercito, meanwhile, blasted Manila Times columnist Bobby Tiglao for claiming that President Estrada had, in fact, agreed to remove the BRP Sierra Madre.

But Ejercito pointed out that it was his father who had ordered the Sierra Madre be grounded on Ayungin Shoal to block Chinese forces from entering Philippine territory.

“That’s very inconsistent and common sense tells us it was President Joseph Estrada who ordered that BRP Sierra Madre be grounded in Ayungin shoal. So how come it will be him to say it should be removed.?” said Ejercito.

“I don’t know where the statement of Tiglao came from,” said the senator.

He said only his father “had the balls” to fight for the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“He has the balls to claim our territory against the superpower,” he said.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. previously said he was rescinding any deal with China to move the rusted 80-year-

Department of Energy director for the oil industry management bureau Rodela Romero said the high pump prices were due to “Saudi’s production cut, US government agency projected a rosier outlook on the economy and Ukraine’s threat to retaliate if Russia continues to block Ukrainian ports. These offset concerns about slow demand from China.”

On August 8, the oil companies implemented an increase of P0.50 per liter for gasoline, P4 per liter for diesel, and P2.75 per liter for kerosene. These price adjustments resulted in a

old ship from the shoal, which is just 40 kilometers from Chinese-occupied Mischief Reef.

This developed as an informant could be giving the Chinese Coast Guard intel on the schedule of resupply missions to the Sierra Madre, a spokesman of the National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea said Monday.

In the interview on TeleRadyo Serbisyo, Philippine Coast Guard Commodore Jay Tarriela said the six Chinese Coast Guard vessels involved in the Aug. 5 water cannon incident against Filipino boats were not stationed at Ayungin Shoal but came from Mischief Reef, Pag-asa Island, Bajo de Masinloc, and Subi Reef.

The BRP Sierra Madre is a World War II-era ship that was deliberately grounded at Ayungin Shoal in 1999 to serve as a military outpost over the contested waters.

A day before the water cannon incident, the six Chinese vessels suddenly converged at the shoal to stop the Philippines’ resupply mission and then returned to their areas immediately after the incident.

“What we can see from here is that they were really prepared to block the resupply mission,” he said in a mix of

pay increases as part of the mandated salary increase by the Department of Budget and Management.

year-to-date net increase of P11.50 per liter for gasoline, P7.10 per liter for diesel, and P2.60 per liter, respectively.

The higher oil prices followed last week’s decline in profits by Petron Corp. and Shell Pilipinas Corp. for the first half due to rising financing costs and declining global oil prices.

Petron’s net income fell 20 percent in the first half of 2023 to P6.14 billion from P7.7 billion in the same period last year even as sales volume went up 13 percent to 57.61 million barrels from 51.41 million barrels sold a year ago.

Filipino and English. “Maybe they had intel on the ground. Maybe there was an informant that told them of the movement of our resupply operations.”

Tarriela also disputed claims by proChina apologists that the Chinese were “humanitarians” who allowed one resupply boat to get through to the dilapidated BRP Sierra Madre last week, and that Filipino boats were not really affected by the water cannons.

“The video of us being bombed with water is said to have been edited because China released a video that did not hit the resupply ships. If you are Filipino, why would you believe the video released by China? That’s what you will spread to the people?” he said.

He also repeated his stand that Filipinos who are taking the side of China and spreading lies about the West Philippine Sea dispute are traitors.

Tarriela said he was surprised to find himself being bashed online for calling out China’s aggressive behavior in the West Philippine Sea and for calling proChina apologists traitors.

He noted that pro-China apologists have always sided with the Chinese government and echoed Beijing’s explanations on the Chinese swarm in disputed reefs.

personnel,” she said in Filipino.

“To the hoarders, I hope you will not hide your stocks. Open up your warehouses,” the House leader said. “They should not abuse our seeming leniency because will go hammer and tongs against them.”

He said the market inspection is also a warning to government agencies to do their jobs.

Romualdez also noted that the House is also closely monitoring global market developments that could affect prices and supplies in the local market.

The Speaker earlier directed the officials of the Bureau of Plant and Industry (BPI) to explain to legislators how hoarders managed to reemerge and once again manipulate the price of onions.

Chinese...

From A1

of China’s Nansha Islands.

The embassy official said that China and the Philippines are neighbors that “can’t move away from one another,” thus disputes between both countries should be managed through dialogue and consultations (see related story -- Editors).

“China has repeatedly expressed its willingness to resolve differences with the Philippines through bilateral dialogues. We hope that the Philippines side will abide by the existing consensus and cherish the hard-won situation in our bilateral relations. Meet the Chinese side halfway and find an effective way of managing the situation on the sea through diplomatic consultations,” Zhou said.

The Chinese embassy official also said that China has lodged “solemn representations immediately requesting the Philippine side to tow away the vessel,” referring to the BRP Sierra Madre. He insisted that the Philippines agreed to remove the ship that has been grounded in Ayungin Shoal since 1999.

During a “Brigada Eskwela” activity in San Miguel, Manila City, President Marcos accompanied by Vice President and concurrent Education Secretary Sara Duterte-Carpio told reporters the government’s plan to provide higher pay for teachers.

“We have an increase under the Salary Standardization Law, which is in tranches every year,” Duterte said when asked about teachers’ pay.

Under the Salary Standardization Law, government employees receive

The fourth tranche or the last phase of the Salary Standardization Law took effect Jan. 1, 2023, while the first tranche was back on Jan. 1, 2020.

Duterte added that the President has tasked her and the Department of Education to conduct research to provide a long-term approach to increasing the salaries of teaching and non-teaching DepEd personnel.

“When we came in last year, when I took the post, President Marcos ordered us to procure a study to look for a longterm way how to increase the salaries of our teaching and non-teaching DepEd

is a big help for the daily expenses of our public servants,” Pangandaman said.

On July 16, the approved P40 minimum wage hike in Metro Manila took effect to aid workers against rising prices of commodities.

At the same event, Mr. Marcos expressed his support for the DepEd’s “Matatag Curriculum.”

President Marcos and Duterte joined Victorino Mapa High School teachers in San Miguel, Manila in preparation for the upcoming school year.

Asked about his thoughts on the Matatag Curriculum, Mr. Marcos said that the curriculum would be a significant addition to improving the country’s education system.

Republic Act 11466 or the Salary Standardization Law.

“The Philippine side also made explicit commitments to do so. The representations were put on record and well documented,” Zhou said.

“It’s been 24 years and the Philippines side has yet to honor its commitment. The Chinese side, however, has always exerted the utmost restraint, with a view to maintaining the relations with the Philippines and safeguarding regional peace and stability,” he added.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. last week denied that the Philippines had promised China to remove BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal and said if such an agreement existed he would rescind it.

there is a need to adjust them.

“We know that any amount of increase

In January, the fourth and last tranche of salary hikes for government employees was implemented. The said increase was mandated by

“We have offered an arrangement that would benefit the students. But Taguig rejected it,” Certeza said.

In accordance with RA 11466, the modified salary schedule for civil personnel shall be implemented in four tranches, from FY 2020 to FY 2023.

Reflecting a proactive approach to employee welfare, the DBM has also allocated P1.368 billion in the proposed 2024 National Expenditure Program to fund the additional P1,000 in the uniform or clothing allowance of over 1.3 million government employees.

In a meeting with Taguig City local officials led by Mayor Laarni Cayetano and Department of Education officials in July, Makati Mayor Abigail Binay proposed a status quo where Makati will continue its services in the affected schools to ease the worries of the students and their parents and avoid disruption in school operations.

While Taguig officials rejected the proposal, Makati said the offer still stands as it will greatly ease the worries of both parents and students in the affected barangays.

According to Certeza, Taguig officials told the local government of Makati to stop distributing the students’ school needs starting this school year.

Cayetano, for her part, has pledged to provide full support to the public schools that were previously under the jurisdiction of Makati City.

Cayetano said the local government of Taguig has already prepared school kits which will be distributed to the students soon.

Since the 1990s, Makati has been providing all public school students with free school uniforms and school supplies.

Under the administration of Binay, Makati students also receive sneakers, white socks and black leather shoes, reusable water tumblers, and Japaneseinspired Randoseru bags. Students also receive hygiene kits, dental kits, antidengue kits, hard hats, and Emergency Go Bags, rain gear including raincoats and rain boots, and jackets.

“For the sake of the youth and the residents of the 10 affected barangays, please let us provide free school gear and supplies to the students. Let us make them our priority,” said Certeza.

“May compassion for the residents prevail and work together so that their welfare and lives will not be affected,” he added.

Cayetano, for her part, appealed to members of officers of the General Parents Teachers Association for understanding and patience as the transition takes place.

“I will earnestly and diligently contact the officials of the Department of Education so that I can make sure that at the opening of the school year your fears, your doubts, your questions, will gradually be answered, clarified, and will be met,” she said.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government on Monday called on the local governments of Makati and Taguig to ensure the smooth delivery of services while fixing issues arising from their territorial row.

Bangsamoro to support SC decision on Maguindanao

THE Bangsamoro Government in Cotabato City, through its Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, said it is fully committed to supporting the rule of law in light of the Supreme Court (SC) decision to appoint a provincial treasurer for the newly-formed province of Maguindanao del Norte.

In a statement, the Bangsamoro Government “reiterates its respect to democracy, justice and the rule of law in light of the Supreme Court decision on the mandamus case pertaining to the designation of the provincial treasurer of Maguindanao del Norte, and published interpretations of the case on social media.”

“We firmly respect the independence of the judiciary and the finality of its decisions, subject to the obser-

vance of the principles of due process.

We believe that in the course thereof, responsible parties must refrain from resorting to acts that may misinterpret, pre-empt, or undermine the substantial certainty of the high court’s decision,” it said.

It added that it has not yet officially received an official copy of the decision and intends to immediately file a motion for reconsideration upon formal receipt of the decision.

“The Office of the Solicitor General will act accordingly upon receipt of an official copy of the decision,” Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said in a statement. Ebrahim meanwhile called on his fellow Bangsamoro leaders “to remain responsible and modulate their actions as

we endeavor to resolve this controversy with minimal or no disruption to public service.”

“We further call on concerned parties to exercise restraint as we work together in addressing and resolving issues arising from ongoing and pending legal proceedings,” he stated. “Finally, we call on all Bangsamoro people, regardless of political belief, to ensure the dissemination of accurate information so as not to cause further confusion and unrest in the affected areas of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.”

The SC earlier ruled to grant the petition of Maguindanao del Norte to have a provincial treasurer following the division of Maguindanao into two provinces late last year. Nash Maulana

Climate change group warns public of heat waves, water shortage

THE Commission on Climate Change (CCC) on Monday warned the public to prepare for increasing heat waves in the coming months that could cause drought and water shortages despite rains and localized thunderstorms.

In a statement, CCC Commissioner Albert dela Cruz Sr. said dry spells would come despite heavy rains drenching parts of the country.

Citing data from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), dela Cruz said the state weather bureau has declared the occurrence of El Niño in the Tropical Pacific after the Oceanic Niño Index recorded 0.5°C in April, May, and June.

Apayao, Cagayan and Kalinga are already experiencing drought based on the 60 percent reduction in the expected rainfall in these areas. Dry conditions were also experienced in Isabela and Tarlac.

Dela Cruz also cautioned the public over prolonged rainfall and eventual flash floods that could disrupt daily routines and affect the prices of prime commodities.

Arroyo, Robes named Central Luzon’s best legislators

By Maricel V. Cruz

REP. Florida Robes of San Jose del Monte City and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo have been cited for their outstanding legislative performance and constituent service.

A survey conducted by “Boses ng Bayan” by the RP Mission and Development Foundation Inc.(RPMD) named the two legislators “best-performing legislators” in Central Luzon.

Sharing the top rung with Arroyo and Robes is Rep. Jefferson Khonghun of Zambales.

According to RPMD, the three members of the House of Representatives from the Central Luzon Region have undergone .meticulous evaluations as part of the independent, non-commissioned survey of

some members of Congress.”

RPMD Executive Director Dr. Paul Martinez revealed that Robes, Arroyo, and Khonghun of Zambales had achieved statistically tied ratings.

With respective scores of 90.3 percent, 89.7 percent, and 89.5 percent, the lawmakers are collectively recognized as the top-performing legislators in the Central Luzon Region.

Reps. Aurelio Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga, Linabelle Ruth Villarica of Bulacan, and Rommel Rico Angara of Aurora were grouped in the second position with scores of 87.6 percent 87.3 percent, and 87.1 percent, respectively.

Reps. Mikaela Angela Suansing of Nueva Ecija and Lorna Silverio of Bulacan shared third place with scores of 85.9 percent and 85.2 percent, respectively.

IN BRIEF

Cops nab suspect, seize P1.8m in illegal drugs

Subsequent rankings saw Reps. Carmelo “Lazatin ll of Pampanga and Geraldine Roman of Bataan in the 4th position, with 83.8 percent and 83.5 percent, respectively.

Reps. Albert Garcia of Bataan, Ditse Tina Pancho of Bulacan, and Rossana Vergara of Nueva Ecija all tied for fifth place with 81.9 percent, 81.7 percent, and 81.5 percent, respectively.

The RP Mission and Development Foundation Inc. (RPMD) conducts the nationwide “Boses ng Bayan” survey, which includes the “Public Satisfaction Survey for the House of Representatives” in the Central Luzon Region. Carried out between June 25 and July 5, 2023, the survey encompassed all districts across every region of the nation.

PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) operatives seized P1.8 million worth of suspected “shabu” and arrested a suspect during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Boloc-boloc, Sibulan, Negros Oriental, on Sunday.

The suspect, identified as Ian Rey Derama Completo, 42, a resident of Villa Pastoral in Barangay Batinguel, was arrested after he allegedly sold shabu to an undercover PNP operative.

Police Lieutenant Stephen Polinar, deputy chief of the Police Community Affairs and Development Unit (PCADU) of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (NOPPO), on Monday said that Completo yielded more or less 265 grams of suspected shabu valued at P1.8 million.

“The suspect is a high-value individual in the police’s list of drug personalities and has been under close surveillance for months now,” Polinar said.

“A complaint for violation of Sec. 5 (possession) and Sec. 11 (sale) of illegal drugs of Article II of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act was filed before the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office against the suspect,” he added.

Polinar said the arrest of the drug suspect comes amid ongoing massive synchronized police operations in the province against illegal drugs and other forms of criminality.

The weekend operation was conducted jointly by the Sibulan police, the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit and the Provincial Intelligence Unit of NOPPO and in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the province, said Sibulan police chief, Police Major Ricky Dacotdacot. Vince Lopez CAAP hails staff who returned wallet with cash

THE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) on Monday commended the honesty and integrity demonstrated by an employee at Cauayan Airport after he turned over a wallet containing more than P78,000 and US dollar bills.

The honesty of Alexander Nuñez, an employee of the Maintenance Section at CAAP Cauayan Airport, was tested when he discovered a lost wallet at the airport’s vehicle parking area around 10:55 a.m. on August 13. He quickly turned over the wallet to the Lost and Found Section of the Cauayan Airport’s CAAP Security and Intelligence Service (CSIS).

Upon inspection, the wallet was found to contain a substantial amount of P78,595 along with assorted US dollar notes.

A certain “Ms. Dela Cruz,” the owner of the misplaced wallet, approached the CSIS Office in search of her lost item. After verification, the CSIS successfully returned the wallet to its rightful owner.

This is not the first time that Nuñez has displayed such remarkable integrity. He was previously recognized by the CAAP management for his honesty when he returned another lost and found item back in July.

CAAP officials said the consistent actions of the man reflect a pattern of behavior that goes above and beyond the call of duty, setting a shining example for his colleagues and the community at large.

“We salute Mr. Nuñez for his incredible acts of honesty. My hope is for his acts to inspire the rest of the CAAP community,” said CAAP Director General Captain Manuel Antonio Tamayo.

CAAP takes immense pride in employees like Nuñez, who uphold the principles of honesty and integrity that are essential to maintaining a strong and trustworthy aviation environment. Joel E. Zurbano

“Last week, heavy rain triggered floods and caused traffic congestion in several parts of Metro Manila, leaving thousands of commuters stranded. Intense heat caused by El Niño can also result in increased rainfall,” he said. “There will be rain in Metro Manila and other areas due to the phenomenon’s weakened state even as rainfall patterns likewise depend on our geographical location.”

During an El Niño episode, warmer ocean temperatures lead to changes in atmospheric circulation patterns that enhance the development of low-pressure systems and the formation of atmospheric moisture, resulting in more precipitation, dela Cruz said.

In Bataan meanwhile, Senator Win Gatchalian underscored the need for the government to undertake an effective flood control program that would shield communities from the damaging impact of climate change.

“Due to the adverse impact of climate change on our communities, the government needs to provide adequate flood control

structures that would provide vulnerable areas with ample protection from the devastating impact of floods,” said Gatchalian during the ceremonial turnover here of rice to the province of Bataan on Sunday morning.

Aside from Bataan, the senator also visited Pangasinan, Bulacan, and Pampanga to check the devastation of the recent typhoons and distributed P8.5 million worth of rice to typhoon victims in affected areas in Luzon.

Several towns and municipalities across Pangasinan, Bulacan, Pampanga, and Bataan have been declared under a state of calamity in the wake of typhoons Egay and Falcon.

The senator said P5.2 million worth of rice was distributed in Malolos, Calumpit, Hagonoy, Balagtas, Paombong, Obando, San Miguel, Guiguinto, Pandi, and Plaridel in Bulacan.

Gatchalian’s call on climate change coincides with the President’s pronouncement that the national government has a master plan to swiftly address climate change, including the construction of a big water dam for flood prevention and agricultural enhancement. Butch Gunio

(MS-AUGUST 15, 2023)

CAMPAIGN AGAINST FAKE NEWS. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. leads the ceremonial signing of the memorandum of understanding and the launch of the Media and Information Literacy campaign of the Presidential Communications Office at the Hilton Hotel in Pasay City on Monday. Joey Razon

PBBM inducts former Muslim rebels into PNP

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has called on former members of rebel fronts to join the country’s police force to serve and protect the country as an ally of the government.

The Chief Executive told the 102 former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) members-turned police officers to live by their oath.

“The moment you take your oath, you pledge your allegiance not just to the Philippine National Police. You pledge your commitment and dedication to the public, to the Filipino people (whom) you promise to serve and protect,” President Marcos said in a speech delivered by Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr.

“You will be issued with arms, which you will be using for the protection of the Filipinos; the arms of protection, which you will now use with the government and not against it. Because at the end of the day, we all have that one thing we aim to achieve – lasting peace and sustainable progress,” he added.

The oath-taking of the former Muslim rebels marked the first PNP event where erstwhile rebels were sworn in to become members of the country’s police force, and help implement the Bangsamoro Organic Law, which the President dubbed as a “history in the making”.

Meanwhile, Abalos hailed the 102 new cops for being “an inspiration for bravery and strength” as the administration continues its pursuit for long-lasting peace in the Mindanao region.

“May this PNP uniform remind you of your mission to guard the vulnerable, be the champion of truth, and be that example of bravery and of responsibility,” President Marcos said

“We’re all united to achieve peace here in Mindanao. The DILG and the whole national government shall continue to implement programs that uplift the welfare of our people, ensuring that our Moro brothers will not be left behind,” Abalos said.

“The national government shares the same dream of the Bangsamoro, for a peaceful community where everyone lives in peace and in harmony,” he added.

CHR presses retraining of entire police force after ‘Jemboy’ killing

By Vince Lopez

COMMISSION on Human Rights (CHG) chairman

Richard Palpal-latoc has recommended a retraining of the entire Philippine National Police (PNP) force in light of the Aug. 2 killing of a 17-year-old teenager near his home in what the police claimed as a case of mistaken identity.

Meanwhile, the PNP, together with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) called a press conference in Camp Crame to tackle various issues confronting the entire police force.

DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. enjoined the PNPL and the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) to revisit the command responsibility

doctrine.

While Palpal-latoc welcomed the Northern Police District’s announcement of a refresher course for its police personnel, the CHR chief said this should be done nationwide.

“It shouldn’t be limited to that station, adding that it should cover the entire police force. In fact, we have an existing training for

them on human rights,” Palpal-latoc said.

Palpal-latoc noted that the Philippine National Police already has its operational procedures and guidelines with a human rights based approach.

“If you will just follow the rules properly, rights abuses could be avoided,” he stressed.

Jemboy Baltazar, 17, was shot dead by policeman after he allegedly jumped from a boat into the river when he was ordered to surrender.

Palpal-latoc also stressed the importance of police personnel using the body cameras issued to them.

The policemen involved in the killing of Baltazar supposedly did not use their body cameras. They were placed on preventive

Teves wants House ethics panel to stop hearings on him

By Maricel V. Cruz

EMBATTLED Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. on Monday demanded that the House Committee on Ethics be enjoined to stop its proceedings against him, calling it a violation of “internal rules.”

In a letter sent to the committee chaired by COOP-NATCCO Rep. Felimon Espares, Teves through his lawyer Ferdinand Topacio, said the committee should defer action against an ethics case against a congressman who also faces a complaint before

another body, pending action on those cases.

Espares has yet to issue a statement on the matter as of press time.

“This is to prevent conflicting decision from different bodies and this is an acknowledgement on the part of the House committee that any House committee is not a trier of facts; it is not a court of law; it is not the most competent to rule on certain issues of facts or law before it,” Topacio said.

Topacio said the proscription of Teves as a terrorist was pending before the Anti-Terrorism Council and that the case

might might be elevated to the court. He added that Teves was also facing a case of abandonment of office at the Office of the Ombudsman due to his continued absences from legislative duties.

“Para sa amin po papasok na po yung rule under section 2 na dapat pigilin muna itong pagdinig na ito at hintayin yung desisyon noong Ombudsman at ng AntiTerrorism Council sapagkat nakalagay po dito hihintayin po yung desisyon by final judgment,” Topacio stated.

“Dapat po tigil po immediately itong pag-

suspension as administrative and homicide charges were being prepared against them.

Secretary Abalos was accompanied by NAPOLCOM vice-chairman and executive officer Alberto Bernardo, PNP deputy chief for administration Lt. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Brig. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez and Police Regional Office Region 4A (CALABARZON) director, Brig. Gen. Carlito Gaces.

During the press briefing, Abalos asserted that the police became reckless during operations in Imus, Cavite and in Navotas, saying they entered the house without a search warrant and shot dead Baltazar without even confirming the identity of their target.

IN BRIEF

SPD heightens drive against criminality

THE Southern Police District (SPD) has stepped up its anti-crime drive, arresting 76 suspected drug offenders and 87 illegal gamblers in just one week. SPD operatives also apprehended nine people in possession of illegal firearms and took 59 wanted criminals into custody during the week Aug. 7 to 13.

These achievements, according to SPD director Roderick Mariano, were a testament to the dedication and effectiveness of the police district in ensuring the safety and security of South Metro Manila..

Meanwhile, the SPD warned the public against counterfeit money being circulated by criminal elements as the “ber months’ or the peak shopping season draws near.

A 30-year old security guard named Kevin Jhon Soncio was arrested after using counterfeit money to pay for a pack of cigarettes in a sari-sari store in Barangay Fort Bonifacio Taguig City.

Joel E. Zurbano

MMDA-DepEd tieup vs. smoking, vaping

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Department of Education (DepEd) office in Makati City have signed an agreement to provide anti-smoking and anti-vaping lectures to select schools in the city.

dinig ng Committee on Ethics,” he added.

Topacio also said the letter was personally signed by Teves, instead of his lawyers, which “should satisfy the requirement” of the committee.

The ATC has designated suspended Teves and his armed supporters as terrorists.

In a resolution dated July 26, the ATC cited the killings and harassments in Negros Oriental that were meant to “intimidate” the province’s residents and to create an “atmosphere or spread a message of fear.”

PAGCOR loses P2.2b due to unpaid revenues by POGO that went missing

THE Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has registered P2.2 billion in “losses” from Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO) firm that has closed shop.

At a budget hearing of the House appropriations committee, PAGCOR chief Alejandro Tengco made the statement to legislators in reference to the over P2 billion of PAGCOR collectibles that the Commission on Audit (COA) reported in June 2022.

“The amount was not collected in the past administration... it was a P2.2-billion receivables from a POGO licensee during the last administration. During the pandemic, nawala na lang po parang bula iyong POGO,” Tengco told the panel chaired by Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy Co.

The Co panel deliberated Monday on the Pagcor’s proposed P5.768-trillion budget for 2024.

Hitman in Lapid slay wants to plead guilty to homicide

A SELF-confessed gunman in the killing of radio commentator Percival “Percy Lapid” Mabasa, has asked a Las Piñas court to be allowed to plead guilty to the lesser offense of homicide instead of murder.

“In the interest of justice and for the mutual benefit of the State and the accused, it is most respectfully prayed of this Honorable Court to allow accused Joel Escorial y Salve to enter into plea bargaining to lesser offense of homicide,” read his motion to plea-bargain,

filed through his lawyer from the Public Attorney’s Office. Escorial faces a murder charge before the Las Piñas Regional Trial Court Branch 254 over Lapid’s murder, along with former Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) chief Gerald Bantag and several others.

Three of his co-accused, all gang leaders from the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) where the killing was allegedly planned, had pleaded guilty as accessories to the murder. They were sentenced to up to eight years in prison.

Meanwhile, Bantag and his deputy, Ricardo Zulueta, remained at large. They have filed a petition before the Court of Appeals challenging the DOJ prosecutor’s resolution indicting them for murder.

Lapid was shot dead outside his subdivision in Las Piñas on the night of October 3, 2022.

Escorial surrendered to the police a few days later, after his face, captured through a surveillance footage, was shown on nationwide television.

“I had an exit conference with COA about a month ago, and I made a manifestation to the supervisor of COA in PAGCOR and there is no way we can collect that said P2 billion anymore,” Tengco added.

When he assumed office last year, he said he formed a team that would look into the case of the missing POGO.

Unfortunately he said the investigating team probe failed to track down the individuals involved in the said POGO licensee as they were all foreign nationals who have already left the country.

“Our investigation revealed the officers of the licensee already left the country, and that such licensee did not have a local incorporator. That is why during the last exit conference with COA, we asked them, (if it’s possible, that receivable be stricken off),” Tengco said. Maricel V. Cruz

The memorandum of understanding was signed during the launch of the Brigada Eskwela 2023 Makati High School, meant to educate and capacitate learners on the dangers of smoking, vaping, and secondhand smoke.

The MMDA Health, Public Safety and Environmental Protection Office will facilitate the lectures, which will also include an orientation on antilittering and basic first aid and disaster management.

The MMDA will capacitate students on training that will enhance their skills in using the website as a platform for educating young people on the ill effects of smoking and vaping on a person’s health. The project will be a continuing program and is set to end in June 2025.

Joel E. Zurbano

NHA cited for gender responsive practices

THE National Housing Authority (NHA) under general manager Joeben Tai, has bagged the 2023 GADtimpala Silver for Outstanding GenderResponsive Agency, and Exemplary GAD Focal Point System awards yearly commissioned by the Philippine Commission on Women.

The PCW’s GADtimpala Selection Process expressed its recognition of the NHA’s continued efforts in the practice of outstanding performance in gender mainstreaming and effective implementation of gender-responsive programs.

“It is another milestone for the NHA to be acknowledged and appreciated for GAD best practices and genderresponsive programs. Indeed, I am very proud that the Authority commits to promoting gender equality,” Tai said.

In more than 20 years, the NHA has spearheaded initiatives in promoting gender equality through its policies in its workplaces and housing programs. Rio N. Araja

LEADERSHIP BY EXAMPLE.

Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval manifests a typical case of leadership by example as she gamely joins a Brigada Eskwela roll out at the Malabon National High School. Andrew Rabulan

FLOODED STREET IS A PLAYGROUND. Children horse around in the oodwater of a street near the Baclaran Church in Parañaque City, unmindful of the risks of catching illnesses due to the harmful bacteria in the dirty water. Lino Santos

JUSTICES IN THE HOUSE. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez welcomes Court of Appeals Associate Justice Edwin Sorongon (2nd from left) and CA Presiding Justice Remedios Salazar-Fernando (3rd from left), who paid him a courtesy call at the House of Representatives on Monday. With them are Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales, Jr. (left) and Iloilo Rep. Ferjenel Biron (right). Roy Pelovello

faces litmus test at

THE Ayungin Shoal is starting to become a flashpoint in Southeast Asia, with China claiming Ayungin Shoal ( Second Thomas Shoal) is part of its territory in the West Philippine Sea.

The Philippines, on the other hand, claims Ayungin Shoal, 104 nautical miles from Palawan, is part and parcel of our continental shelf and within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the country at the West Philippine Sea.

Thus, whenever there are private or Philippine Coast Guard vessels in the area, China claims they are intruding in China’s territory, Santa Banana!

In 1999, the World War II-vintage BRP warship Sierra Madre was intentionally grounded at the Ayungin Shoal by the Philippine Navy in an effort to assert its claim to that Shoal and since then there has been a platoon of navy marines stationed there. The problem now is that whenever that platoon of navy marines has to be resupplied with food and other necessities, the Chinese Coast Guard and other militia vessels block the Philippine vessel.

At one instance, the Chinese Coast Guard vessel aimed at a Philippine Coast Guard vessel with a military-laser, blinding the Philippine Coast Guard vessel with some Philippine journalists on board. The latest incident was when a Chinese Coast Guard even fired water cannons.

These and other incidents, like when Chinese Coast Guard and militia vessels swarm the area, have prompted the Department of Foreign Affairs to file verbal and diplomatic protests, but China just ignores them.

Now, China is claiming the Philippines had promised and even vowed to remove the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal, but, in the absence of that promise or vow, the National Security Council claims, it’s “just a figment of the imagination” of China.

No less than President Marcos Jr. disavowed that claim, and if there’s any, he would rescind it.

Comes the question: who did it if it is true?

I can believe that what China is doing is just a “figment” of its imagination” to authenticate its claim to Ayungin.

It also appears that the Ayungin standoff could trigger something else more than China’s planned takeover of Taiwan

BBM’s first test

The Ayungin issue could well be the first test of his political will and leadership as President, Santa Banana!

The President had promised the Filipino nation that “I will never give an inch of our sovereignty at the West Philippine Sea.”

I am sure China’s insistence that Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal) is within Chinese territory and sovereignty, and with the Philippine claim that Ayungin is within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the country, necessitates a stand off, my gulay!

Even our fisherfolk are harassed by China Coast Guard and militia vessels when the former just want to fish in that area.

It can only get worse with the planned joint patrols of the United States and the Philippine Coast Guard at the South China Sea.

And with the increase of sites in the Philippines which US warplanes can use under the Expanded Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) of the Visiting Forces Agreement Treaty, as I said, Santa Banana, China is retaliating against the Philippines and it’s getting worse!

It does seem, if I am not mistaken, that China does seem to be retaliating at the Philippines with BBM’s pivot from China from former President Duterte’s pivot to China and Russia, if you recall.

In my opinion, China President Xi Jinping appears to be testing BBM’s political will to see how far he can go.

It also appears that the Ayungin standoff could trigger something else more than China’s planned takeover of Taiwan.

BBM is indeed walking on a tightrope, my gulay!

The big question now is, will the US truly defend the Philippines just in case there is war with China?

Pros and cons of internet

I have said enough in my previous columns about the pros and cons of the internet, Santa Banana, especially when I said that the GenZ generation is relying on almost everything on the internet and they are missing out on a lot of the things that my generation used to love in life, like courting and writing love letters, visiting a girl they like in her home etc.

Suspended projects

“fraudulent” business practices.

WASINGTON, DC—US President Joe Biden’s landmark climate action plan may have been trailed by billions of dollars in clean energy investment, but its potential to reshape trade lines has strained ties with allies.

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), signed into law on August 16 last year, directs some $370 billion in subsidies toward America’s energy transition, including tax breaks for US-made electric vehicles and batteries.

But the incentives, which boost American manufacturing after years of offshoring, have triggered fears that they could draw businesses out of other countries.

“This was really the United States coming into the game in a big way,” said Joshua Meltzer, senior fellow at the Brookings Institution. Europe had been subsidizing the development of clean technologies since before the IRA, as had China and others, Meltzer noted.

But Washington’s entry “meant that for these subsidies to remain competitive they had to be continued or raised,” he told AFP.

‘Unintended consequences’

The legislation had some “unintended consequences” in constraining trade with key

Even in the movies, gone are the romantic Hollywood movies about love like “Affair to Remember” and Ingrid Bergman and Sophia Loren romantic films.

My gulay, most of the movies today are about crime, violence, disasters, calamities and “dark” movies about the future.

How I miss those love stories of Clark Gable, especially “Casablanca” of Humphrey Bogart and the like.

Well, my grandson told me that times have changed and life is now much faster.,

But the advantage of their generation is that with the internet, they know almost everything and can communicate with friends and even lost relatives anywhere in the world. Travel destinations are now easier to discover and travel to because of the internet.

Well, I guess my generation belongs to the past.

When I talk to my grandson, I really feel old and jurassic.

To them I am a dinosaur, and whenever I talk of the joys of youth and recall the girls I wrote love letters to and dated them, he would laugh.

Now, Santa Banana, all they do, with a tap of a finger is text or email each other, girls don’t play “pakipot” anymore like the girls of my time, since there are more women than men now.

Well, Santa Banana, things have really changed because of the internet.

My gulay, I am really old!

Manila Bay reclamations

President Marcos Jr. suspended 22 reclamation projects in Manila Bay, the reports said.

Santa Banana, there are 22 reclamation projects in Manila bay, all aimed at building artificial land areas in Manila Bay, I can’t believe it !

With 22 reclamation projects in Manila, there goes the famous sunset of Manila Bay.

My gulay, what will happen to Manila Bay?

Whoever authorized them should be canned, jailed and the key thrown into the polluted Pasig River.

Well, at least BBM had the good sense of suspending them.

It’s now up to the Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga to review them.

In my opinion, Mister President, they should, all 22 of them, be canceled. They are all threats, not only to the environment, but to national security.

All for what, my gulay, for the benefit of people behind the reclamation?

What bothers me more about the reclamations projects right behind the American Embassy is that it is in joint venture with blacklisted state-owned China Communications Construction Co (CCCC) that was responsible for building those artificial islands for China at the West Philippine Sea, now highly militarized with airfields, ports and the like for the use of China at the South China Sea, which China claims to be its own under its mythical “nine-dash line” claim to the whole China Sea.

I believe not only the CCCC should be banned from getting involved in projects in the Philippines, but all Mainland Chinese business involvement in Philippine projects.

Note that, in most of the Chinese investments involved in the Philippines, they are state-owned. Santa Banana, China does not have to invade the Philippines, they are already here!

P50 and bananas

We may laugh at news reports that for P50 and a bunch of bananas that motor boat capsized in the tragedy where 27 passengers died at Laguna Lake, also involved the common practice among government regulators of demanding “padulas” or grease money to violate rules and regulations.

In other words, just for P50 and a bunch of bananas, that motor boat which was clearly overloaded with 70 people with only 40-passenger seating capacity capsized because of heavy waves at the height of a typhoon can be traced to utter neglect and even corruption of the Coast Guard personnel to allow the motorized boat to leave port.

It is not unusual that even policemen want grease money to do things they should do.

I know only too well when I got involved in a vehicle accident, when you report to the police the accident, whoever is in charge at a police station won’t act on that incident report unless you give him grease money.

An incident report is needed to make a claim at the car insurance company/ Worst of all, in the provinces, the police force become the private army of the mayor or some politician.

They say it’s the Filipino way: without “padulas”or grease money, nothing moves.

IT IS gratifying that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has suspended 22 Manila Bay reclamation projects, except one, following what the government perceives as problems in implementation.

The presidential suspension allows space for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to have a comprehensive review of proponents’ compliance with environmental regulations.

Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga said: “We have to take our time, really beginning with those that are ongoing, because they are in fact, already impacting the areas. And then, we will graduate to those that are in fact, still not yet begun,” she added.

Loyzaga said the suspension is already in effect. “As soon as the President speaks, I think that will be in effect... and we now have a formal (order).”

According to President Marcos, the sea along Roxas Boulevard could disappear because of the projects, approved when the incumbent president was Rodrigo Duterte (2016-2022).

Loyzaga said a scientific team, formed to conduct a community impact assessment, would be composed of a physical scientist, oceanographers, geologist, climate scientist and social scientist.

Asked about DENR’s target, Loyzaga said, the DENR would know once the scientific team converges and the work

program is laid out. The suspension followed the US embassy’s concern the Manila Bay reclamation projects have ties to the China Communications Construction Co., which was blacklisted by Washington in 2020. The Chinese firm has been included in the US Department of Commerce’s Entity List for its role in helping the Chinese military construct and militarize the artificial islands in the South China Sea. The US embassy added the CCCC had also been cited by the World Bank and Asian Development Bank for engaging in

Pope Francis in Lisbon

DURING his highly awaited visit to Lisbon, Portugal, for the World Youth Day, Pope Francis inspired both young individuals and adults to advance without apprehension and embrace their essential roles within the Church and the global community.

The Holy Pontiff conveyed impactful messages during his various speeches to audiences such as young people, political leaders, bishops, and the sick.

In his inaugural official event, he urged the Western world to rediscover its fundamental principles.

In the Final Mass of Transfiguration on August 6, Pope Francis delivered a stirring homily about the Gospel of the Transfiguration, which we shall reproduce here in part.

After these exciting days, surely, we feel like repeating the words of the Apostle Peter on the mount of the Transfiguration: “Lord, it is good for us to be here!” (Mt 17:4). xxx in the wake of these gracefilled days, we can also ask an important question: What will we take back with us as we come down from the mountain to resume our daily lives?

Drawing from the Gospel, the Holy Father answered his question with three verbs: to shine, to listen, and to be unafraid.

To shine. Jesus is transfigured and -- as the Gospel tells us -- “his face shone like the sun” (Mt 17:2). His face shines like the sun and his clothes become dazzling white.

Through this brilliant burst of light, Jesus prepares the disciples for the dark night they will have to endure; this overwhelming experience of light would help them to endure the dark hours of Gethsemane and Calvary.

Dear friends, we too need a burst of light if we are to face the darkness of the night, the challenges of life, the fears that plague us, and the gloom that often overtakes us.

That light, the Gospel tells us, has a name.

It is unsettling that in a Senate hearing last week, Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan said his department was not involved in the approval of the reclamation projects, indicating a possible overreach by the Local Government Units.

“Is it proper for LGUs to award the contracts for the reclamation projects?

From what I know, all bodies of water, including Manila Bay, are patrimonial assets owned by the state,” he said in a radio interview.

“That’s why I don’t understand what happened here and why the LGUs were authorized to grant the contracts,” he said. “It’s one of the contentious issues here.”

Then here comes Senator JV Ejercito who has urged the Senate blue ribbon committee to look into the “midnight gold rush” approval of 22 reclamation projects round Manila Bay.

Ejercito lso questioned the authority of local government units to enter into contracts with private companies, many of which are owned by the Chinese government, to dredge and dump sand off the shores of Manila Bay.

“If we want to get to the bottom of these reclamation projects, all stakeholders and agencies concerned have to be summoned [to a Senate investigation],” Ejercito said, but stopped short of raising a time frame. We hope something really bold and positive would be done – and fast – to correct the disquieting scenario.

US allies, said Jeffrey Schott, senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics.

A sticking point was a consumer tax credit of up to $7,500 for the purchase of electric vehicles assembled in North America.

To qualify for the full credit, vehicle batteries should also have a percentage of critical minerals sourced from America or countries with which it has free-trade pacts, leaving the European Union and, initially, Japan in the cold. This drew ire from those countries, and US officials eventually expanded access to the clean vehicle subsidies, noting in March that the free trade agreement requirement could also include newly negotiated critical minerals deals. This includes one that Japan had inked with the United States just shortly earlier -- opening doors to benefits from some subsidies.

“Part of the initial friction was because... the last revisions of the IRA were done in haste and in secret,” said Schott.

There appeared to be a “lack of understanding that US allies were not all US free-trade partners,” he added, leading to some “creative accounting” by the Treasury Department in defining how the

But the incentives, which boost American manufacturing after years of offshoring, have triggered fears that they could draw businesses out of other countries

law would be implemented. Meltzer said that the United States “quite quickly tried to respond to these concerns by negotiating these kind of bilateral deals,” referring to Japan’s pact and the EU’s efforts toward a similar accord. This alleviated many concerns, he said.

Yes, the light that has come to illumine the world is Jesus himself (cf. Jn 1:9). He is the sun that never sets but continues to shine even amid the darkness of the night. able to break down certain walls and prejudices, and to bring the light of Christ’s saving love to the world.

May you always radiate that love! May you always radiate Jesus, “the light of the world” (Jn 8:12)! x x x

The Holy Pontiff conveyed impactful messages during his various speeches to audiences such as young people, political leaders, bishops, and the sick

The second verb is to listen.

On the mount of the Transfiguration, a bright cloud overshadows the disciples and the Father’s voice proclaims that Jesus is his beloved Son.

The command that the Father gives is simple and direct: “Listen to him” (Mt 17:5).

Those words say it all.

The entire Christian life is contained in these, the last words spoken by the Father in Matthew’s Gospel: Listen to him. We are to listen to Jesus, talk to him, read his words and put them into practice, and follow his footsteps. Jesus has words of eternal life for us because he reveals that God is both Father and love, and because, in the Holy Spirit, we too become his beloved children.

That is what we need in this life, then: not fame, success or money, but the realization that we are not alone, that we always have Christ at our side, that we

can start and end each day certain of the Lord’s embrace. We need to listen to Jesus in order to trust that we are loved, embraced by a love that never fails x x x.

To shine, to listen and, finally, to be unafraid.

These were the last words spoken by Jesus on the mount of the Transfiguration, to encourage his fearful disciples: “Get up and do not be afraid!” (Mt 17:7).

After having a foretaste of Easter glory, after being bathed in light divine and hearing the Father’s voice, the disciples can come down from the mountain and face the challenges that await them on the plain below.

It is the same for us: if we cherish the light of Jesus and his words within us, we can live each day with hearts free of fear x x x.

He then exhorts the youth: “As young people, you have great dreams, but often you may fear that they cannot come true.

Sometimes you can think that you are not up to the challenge, and you may be tempted to lose heart, to think you fall short, or to disguise your pain with a smile.

As young people, you want to change the world and work for justice and peace. You devote all your energy and creativity to this, yet it still seems insufficient.

Yet the Church and the world need you, the young, as much as the earth needs rain.

Jesus now speaks to you, dear young people, who are the present and the future of our world. To all of you he says: “Do not be afraid!”

Francis exhorts: “And do not be afraid, for the Lord loves you and walks at your side. With Jesus, life is born anew, always.”

affected trade ties?

Partnerships and relocations

Canada, which warned about the risks of a subsidy war, has since responded by matching certain IRA incentives with those of its own.

In April, it announced up to 13.2 billion Canadian dollars ($9.8 billion) in subsidies over 10 years for Volkswagen’s first overseas battery plant in Ontario.

Elsewhere, South Korea’s largest automaker Hyundai is hoping to produce US-assembled electric cars eligible for subsidies at a site under construction in Georgia.

Other South Korean companies have forged partnerships with US ones to build assembly lines meeting IRA requirements, such as battery maker Samsung SDI’s joint venture with General Motors to build an EV battery plant in the US.

“The IRA would benefit the US through additional output and lower strategic dependence vis-a-vis China,” said an analysis by three European Central Bank economists in July.

“The US would gain from positive relocation effects, increasing production by six percent to 30 percent in electrical and optical equipment,” the economists said in a column on the Center for Economic Policy Research’s policy portal.

This comes mainly at China’s expense, and to a smaller degree the EU’s, the economists said. While the relocation involves a relatively small share of total output, losses in specific sectors can be more substantial.

Since the climate law was signed, at least $75 billion in new manufacturing investments has been announced, according to policy analyst Jack Conness of think tank Energy Innovation: Policy and Technology.

IRA green subsidies may be “of similar size” to those available in the EU, but the US cleantech subsidies are “simpler and less fragmented,” said European think tank Bruegel in a report this year. Such factors could make the US subsidies more attractive to businesses, at a time when Europe also faces rising energy costs following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

“If you’re in an energy-intensive sector such as chemicals... the US looks increasingly attractive,” Meltzer said.

“It’s a broader set of factors, I think, that are creating competitive challenges in Europe,” he said. “The IRA is a part of that... but it’s not everything.” AFP

We hope something really bold and positive would be done – and fast – to correct the disquieting scenario

KAHULUI, Hawaii – The death toll in Hawaii from the deadliest US wildfire in more than a century ticked towards 100 Sunday (Monday in Manila), fueling criticism that government inaction contributed to the heavy loss of life.

Officials say 93 people are known to have died, but warned the figure was likely to rise as recovery crews with cadaver dogs work their way through hundreds of homes and burned out vehicles in Lahaina.

The historic coastal town on the island of Maui was almost completely destroyed by the fast-moving inferno early Wednesday morning, with survivors saying there had been no warnings.

When asked Sunday why none of the island’s sirens had been activated,

Kim calls for Nokor to boost its missile production—KCNA

Hawaii Senator Mazie Hirono said she would wait for the results of an investigation announced by the state’s attorney general.

“I’m not going to make any excuses for this tragedy,” Hirono, a Democrat, told CNN’s “State of the Union.”

“We are really focused, as far as I’m concerned, on the need for rescue, and, sadly, the location of more bodies.”

More than 2,200 buildings were damaged or destroyed as the fire tore through Lahaina, according to official estimates, wreaking $5.5 billion in damage and

leaving thousands homeless.

“The remains we’re finding are from a fire that melted metal,” said Maui Police Chief John Pelletier. “When we pick up the remains... they fall apart.”

That was making identification difficult, he added, appealing for those with missing relatives to give DNA samples that might speed up the process.

Pelletier said cadaver dogs still had a vast area to search in the hunt for what could still be hundreds of people who are unaccounted for.

“We’re going as fast as we can. But just so you know, three percent -- that’s what’s been searched with the dogs,” he said. Questions over alert system

The wildfire is the deadliest in the United States since 1918, when 453 people died in Minnesota and Wisconsin, according to nonprofit research

group the National Fire Protection Association.

The death toll surpassed 2018’s Camp Fire in California, which virtually wiped the small town of Paradise off the map and killed 86 people.

Questions are being asked over how prepared authorities were for the catastrophe, despite the islands’ exposure to natural hazards like tsunamis, earthquakes and violent storms.

In its emergency management plan last year, the State of Hawaii described the risk wildfires posed to people as being “low.”

Yet the layers of warning that are intended to buffer a citizenry if disaster strikes appear not to have operated.

Maui suffered numerous power outages during the crisis, preventing many residents from receiving emergency alerts on their cell phones.

Hawaii fire death toll nears 100, anger grows IN BRIEF

No emergency sirens sounded, and many Lahaina residents spoke of learning about the blaze from neighbors running down the street or seeing it for themselves.

“The mountain behind us caught on fire and nobody told us jack,” resident Vilma Reed, 63, told AFP.

“You know when we found that there was a fire? When it was across the street from us.”

Reed, whose house was destroyed by the blaze, said she was dependent on handouts and the kindness of strangers, and was sleeping in a car with her daughter, grandson and two cats.

The New York Times reported Sunday that firefighters sent to tackle the flames found some hydrants had run dry.

“There was just no water in the hydrants,” the paper quoted firefighter Keahi Ho as saying. AFP

25 missing after Myanmar landslide

YANGON, Myanmar—At least 25 people are missing after a landslide at an unregulated jade mine in a remote region of Myanmar, rescue workers said Monday.

SEOUL—North Korean leader Kim Jong

Un called for a “drastic boost” in missile production during visits to key weapons factories, state media said Monday, as South Korea and the United States prepared for joint drills next week.

The tour of the plants from Friday to Saturday came after Kim called for stepping up war preparations at a key military meeting last week.

Kim’s two-day inspections included visits to factories producing tactical missiles, large-caliber control multiple rocket launcher shells, as well as armoured combat vehicles, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported.

During the tactical missile factory visit, Kim “expressed satisfaction” as the plant had “perfected the scientific and technological issues arising in production” and pushed ahead with the modernization of the weapons.

“He set forth an important goal to drastically boost the existing missile production capacity” and underlined the factory’s role in “speeding up” war preparations, KCNA said.

Kim stressed the “need to ensure boost in the production of shells” and personally drove a armoured combat vehicle, according to the report.

Photos carried by the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper showed a beaming Kim seated in the driver’s seat of a “newly-developed utility combat armoured vehicle” as he took it out for a test drive surrounded by three officials.

Kim also inspected a factory producing transporter erector launchers—vehicles for transporting and launching tactical missiles—and stressed the importance of developing and producing the mobile platforms. AFP

Taiwan VP vows to ‘resist annexation’ during US trip

NEW YORK—Taiwanese Vice President William Lai vowed on Sunday “to resist annexation” in a speech given during a weekend trip to the United States that China has opposed. Lai is the frontrunner in Taiwan’s presidential elections next year, and is making transit stops in the United States en route to and from Paraguay, where he will attend the inauguration of president-elect Santiago Pena. His trip has already roused anger from Beijing, which claims democratic Taiwan as part of China, and which particularly dislikes Lai, accusing him of espousing separatist views.

At a New York luncheon on Sunday (Monday in Manila), Lai reiterated he would continue to uphold the core tenets of the administration of President

Tsai Ing-wen—also hated by Beijing for refusing to accept that Taiwan is a part of China.

“I will continue... our commitment to resist annexation or encroachment upon our sovereignty,” he said in a speech carried by Taiwanese channel TTV News.

China had said earlier on Sunday that it was closely monitoring “troublemaker” Lai’s visits, and vowed to take “resolute and forceful measures to safeguard national sovereignty”.

In a video released by Taiwan’s presidential office, Lai also reiterated that they “must uphold the value of democracy and freedom”.

“At this critical moment, we promise again here and now that no matter how great the threat of authoritarian-

ism is to Taiwan, we will never be afraid or back down,” Lai told an audience that included representatives of the American Institute in Taiwan —the de facto US embassy for the island.

Taiwan had sought to downplay Lai’s US trip as routine—he is expected to continue on to Paraguay, then stop in San Francisco on his way back to Taiwan.

China’s Taiwan Affairs Office on Sunday accused him of “going to the US to betray Taiwan for his own selfish personal gain.”

“William Lai continues to stubbornly defend the idea of Taiwanese independence... in an attempt to wrangle votes,” said spokeswoman Zhu Fenglian. AFP

Niger generals vow to sue ousted president for ‘high treason’

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) imposed sanctions on Niger in response to the coup and has not ruled out using force against the army officers who toppled the democratically elected Bazoum on July 26.

with international concern mounting over his conditions in detention.

A member of his entourage said he saw his doctor on Saturday.

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 80 QUEZON CITY

IN THE MATTER OF DECLARATION OF ABSENCE SPOUSE CARLITO

A. VALENTON, SP. PROC. NO. R-QZN-23-04863-SP

AURORA LIM-VALENTON.

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT National Capital Judicial Region BRANCH 106, QUEZON CITY rtc2qzn106@judiciary.gov.ph

LUISA UNO-GARIN Petitioner, -versus- CIVILCASE NO. R-QZN-18-08899-CV FOR: Declaration of Nullity of Marriage

TROY V. GARIN Respondent. x----------------------------------------------------x

WHEREFORE, on the basis of all the foregoing, the petition is GRANTED and the marriage between MARIA LUISA UNOGARIN and RAINIER TROY V. GARIN solemnized on January 10, 2004, is declared NULL AND VOID AB INITIO pursuant to Article 36 of the Family Code, as amended. The Local Civil Registrar of Quezon City, is directed to indicate the nullification of the marriage, filed in its office, between the petitioner and the respondent. The decision shall become final upon the expiration of the fifteen-day period from notice to the parties and from the time the corresponding Entry of Final Judgment has been made if no motion for reconsideration or new trial, or appeal, is filed by any of the parties, the Public Prosecutor, or the Solicitor General.

Thereafter, the petitioner is directed to submit a certified true copy of this Decision and Entry of Judgment to the Civil Registrar of Quezon City, where their marriage was registered, and the Philippine Statistic Authority, after which the Court shall

The West African bloc has approved the deployment of a “standby force to restore constitutional order” in Niger as soon as possible but remains committed to finding a diplomatic solution to the crisis.

Niger’s military leaders said they would prosecute Bazoum “for high treason and undermining the internal and external security of Niger”, according to a statement read out by ColonelMajor Amadou Abdramane on national television.

Bazoum, 63, and his family have been held at the president’s official Niamey residence since the coup,

“After this visit, the doctor raised no problems regarding the state of health of the deposed president and members of his family,” the military said.

They also said sanctions imposed on Niger had made it difficult for people to access medicines, food and electricity, and were “illegal, inhumane and humiliating.”

The comments came just hours after religious mediators met with coup leader General Abdourahamane Tiani, who indicated his regime was open to a diplomatic breakthrough.

Tiani “said their doors were open to explore diplomacy and peace in resolving the matter”, said Sheikh Bala Lau, a day after his Nigerian Muslim delegation held talks in the capital Niamey. AFP

The incident on Sunday outside northern Kachin’s Hpakant township -- near where hundreds of miners were entombed in a landslide in 2020 -- comes days after much of the country was swamped by torrential rain and floods.

The highly lucrative jade mining industry is mostly unregulated, with migrant workers enduring dangerous conditions and frequently deadly accidents.

“About 25 people went missing. We haven’t got a detailed list as it’s difficult to get here,” one rescue worker, who did not want to be named, told AFP from the scene.

He described how a massive pile of earth about 150-180 meters high left behind by mining excavations was loosened by the intense rains and collapsed.

Search and rescue missions were continuing, he said, but some workers had already returned to the scene in the hope of finding jade.

“We haven’t found any dead bodies yet,” he said.

Another rescue worker confirmed to AFP that attempts to recover people were ongoing despite fears of secondary landslides. “It is not safe for rescue workers to search it,” said the individual, who was with the emergency group Myanmar Rescue and also requested anonymity. AFP

Russian trial opens for Navalny ally

MOSCOW—An ally of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny went on trial in Siberia on Monday on charges of creating an “extremist organization,” a court spokeswoman told AFP, as authorities press ahead with a crackdown on dissent amid Russia’s assault on Ukraine.

Ksenia Fadeyeva, 31, is a former municipal deputy in the Siberian city of Tomsk who was added to Russia’s “terrorist” list in January 2022.

She also headed Navalny’s political office in the city, where Navalny was poisoned with the Soviet-designed nerve agent Novichok when he visited in August 2020 to support local activists ahead of elections.

The next month, Fadeyeva was elected to the Tomsk city legislature along with other independent activists in Siberia, a move hailed as a victory for the Russian opposition against Vladimir Putin’s rule.

The local elections came a year ahead of parliamentary polls and were seen as a blow to the Kremlin, as the ruling party faced sinking popularity and simmering public anger over economic woes.

But in 2021, Navalny’s political offices were designated “extremist organisations”, putting employees, volunteers and supporters at risk of prosecution.

Many of his allies have left Russia, though Fadeyeva refused to flee and was detained in December 2021 on charges of organizing “an extremist” group. AFP

China’s defense minister to visit Russia, Belarus

BEIJING—Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu will visit Russia and Belarus this week, his ministry said in an online statement on Monday.

Ties between Beijing and Moscow have remained warm in recent years, with China refusing to speak out against Russia’s widely condemned invasion of neighboring Ukraine.

“At the invitation of Russian Defense Minister (Sergei) Shoigu and Belarusian Defense Minister (Viktor) Khrenin, from August 14 to 19, State Councilor and Defense Minister Li Shangfu will go to Russia to attend the 11th Moscow Conference on International Security, and visit Belarus,” a Chinese defense ministry spokesperson said.

Li’s visit to Russia will include a speech at the international security forum, as well as meetings with leaders of defense departments from Russia and other countries, the spokesperson added.

Last month an aide to Vladimir Putin said the Russian president was planning to visit China in October, and in March President Xi Jinping made a state visit to Moscow and declared relations between the two countries were entering a new era.

China and Russia are strategic allies, with both sides frequently touting their “no limits” partnership and cooperation in the economic and military spheres. Their ties became even closer after Russia began its military campaign in Ukraine in February last year and the western economic sanctions that ensued.

Beijing has pointedly declined to condemn Russia’s offensive. AFP

NIAMEY, Niger—Niger’s military regime vowed late Sunday to prosecute ousted president Mohamed Bazoum for “high treason” and slammed West African leaders for imposing sanctions on the country.

MEMORIAL SERVICE. Survivors and churchgoers pray during a Sunday church service held by Pastor Brown of Lahaina’s Grace Baptist Church, at Maui Coffee Attic in Wailuku, central Maui, Hawaii. Maui Coffee Attic in Wailuku opened up space for the service after both the church and Pastor Brown’s home in Lahaina were destroyed by a wildfire. AFP

RIVER RITES. People hold India’s national flags as part of the ‘Akhand Sankalp Tiranga Yatra’ in Narmada river on the eve of the country’s Independence Day celebrations in Jabalpur on Monday. AFP

Shares of China’s Country Garden plunge on huge real estate debts

BEIJING, China—Shares in Chinese property giant Country Garden plunged on Monday after it missed bond payments and warned of multibillion dollar losses, deepening concerns over the nation’s heavily indebted real estate sector. Its stock price was down by more than 16 percent at 11 am in Hong Kong (0300 GMT).

Country Garden is a privately owned real estate giant named in Forbes’ list of the 500 largest companies in the world. Its boss, Yang Huiyan, was until recently one of the richest women in Asia.

“We’re facing the greatest difficulties since our establishment,” Yang said in a statement Friday, adding: “We firmly believe that the real estate industry will eventually return to the track of healthy and steady development after going through this round of profound adjustments.”

The firm has long been deemed financially solid but was unable last Monday to make two bond payments, and after a 30-day grace period the company risks defaulting in September if it still cannot pay.

Country Garden announced over the weekend it would suspend trading of onshore bonds from Monday, a decision likely to cause concern in the markets as the company said its debt was estimated at some 1.15 trillion yuan ($159 billion) at the end of 2022.

Additional liabilities have brought other estimations of its overall debt as high as 1.4 trillion yuan ($193 billion), according to Bloomberg.

Like heavily indebted competitor Evergrande, any collapse of Country Garden would have catastrophic repercussions for the Chinese financial system and economy.

Adding to the pressure, 31 billion yuan ($4.27 billion) in the firm’s bonds are set to mature in 2024, according to rating agency Moody’s, which last Thursday downgraded its rating for the group to “Caa2”, indicating “very high credit risk.” AFP

Stocks, peso fall on lower growth, soaring oil prices

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE local stocks and the peso started the week in the red as the discouraging second-quarter gross domestic product growth continued to dampen investors’ sentiments, while the new round of oil price hikes caused volatility in the foreign exchange.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index declined by 76.72 points, or 1.2 percent, to close at 6,329.19, while the broader all-shares index dropped 32.30 points to settle at 3,397.89.

Philstocks Financial Inc. research analyst Claire Alviar said the Pantheon Macroeconomics’ economic growth forecast downgrade to 4.5 percent from 5.5 percent weighed on sentiments. The suspension of reclamation projects in Manila Bay area also affected the property sub-sector which shed 2.13 percent.

Meanwhile, the peso fell to 56.78 against the US dollar Monday from 56.32 Friday as investors sought the safety of the greenback on expectation of higher cost of importing crude and petroleum. Meanwhile, Asian markets posted sharp losses in Monday trade, after falls in US tech stocks and as concerns over China’s property sector weighed on sentiment. Leading the losers in Hong Kong —where shares were down nearly two

TOP GAINERS

percent—was developer Country Garden, after it missed bond payments and warned of multi-billion dollar losses, deepening concerns over the nation’s heavily indebted real estate sector.

Its shares were down more than 17 percent as of 3:00 pm (0700 GMT).

Country Garden is a privately owned real estate giant named in Forbes’ list of the 500 largest companies in the world. Its boss, Yang Huiyan, was until recently one of the richest women in Asia.

The firm has long been deemed financially solid but was unable last Monday to make two bond payments, and after a 30-day grace period the company risks defaulting in September if it still cannot pay.

Like its heavily indebted competitor Evergrande, any collapse of Country Garden would have catastrophic repercussions for the Chinese financial system and economy. With AFP

AUDIO SHOW. Visitors examine products at the Hong Kong HighEnd Audio Visual Show inside the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Hong Kong on August 13, 2023. AFP

Zuckerberg, Musk throw verbal jabs over proposed charity cage match

WASHINGTON, United States—

Billionaires and social media business

rivals Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk threw new online jabs at each other Sunday, with the Meta founder declaring the owner of X -- formerly known as Twitter -- was not treating a proposed charity cage match seriously.

“I think we can all agree Elon isn’t serious and it’s time to move on,” Zuckerberg wrote on his Threads social platform.

“I offered a real date... Elon won’t

A RECENT CEO Series session was very near and dear to my heart. Being in the HR profession, I was in awe of how Ms. Anj Vera, the founder and CEO of TalentView, eloquently summarized the importance of Employer Branding in elevating Human Capital.

confirm a date, then says he needs surgery, and now asks to do a practice round in my backyard instead.”

Musk quickly responded on X, the platform he bought last year that was previously called Twitter.

“Zuck is a chicken,” Musk posted.

The Tesla boss said he would head to Silicon Valley Monday: “Can’t wait to bang on his door tomorrow.”

When an X user suggested Zuckerberg was getting cold feet about the match, Musk referred to a popular US fast food

chain known for its chicken offerings.

“He can’t eat at Chick-fil-A because that would be cannibalism,” Musk posted.

The two tech titans have gone back and forth on social media about fighting each other in a much-hyped charity match.

Musk said Friday the fight would take place in Italy, as authorities there confirmed talks about hosting a “great charity event.”

“I spoke to the PM of Italy and

Elevate the human capital

Bring people together

I loved the idea of TalentView’s

TOP LOSERS

MOST ACTIVE

Minister of Culture,” Musk wrote, referring to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. “They have agreed on an epic location.” In response, Zuckerberg posted a photo of himself shirtless and pinning down an opponent in his “backyard octagon.”

A martial arts enthusiast who has taken part in jiujitsu competitions, Zuckerberg said, “I love this sport and I’ve been ready to fight since the day Elon challenged me.” AFP

She is a young female CEO that inspires professionals like me. TalentView helps ASEAN companies get noticed and loved through their talent brand. Consumer branding strongly affects employer branding, and TalentView helps shape that connection through strategy, design, and technology. Ms. Anj shared five principles that make them a competitive player in the market.

Vision is everything

Having a clear vision results in cohesive strategies and goals. Ms. Anj said, “HR leaders can do a better job by shaping the candidate and employee experience.” I agree that HR plays a key part in driving the culture. However, that role is not solely ours. Leadership should also champion the company’s values and ensure their teams align with the vision. In my experience, many talented employees leave because their roles and goals are unclear. It’s important to remember the leaders shape that experience in partnership with HR. With the right people, we can actualize the vision.

Aim for excellence

TalentView leverages data analytics to achieve impactful results for its customers. I admire that they are a small company that continuously improves their ways of working to produce the best for their clients. I believe that opportunities are endless for them since they constantly elevate themselves despite the challenges brought about by the pandemic. Ms. Anj shared a wonderful example of how they created a virtual Career Campus for Coca-Cola. It was inventive, creative, and collaborative, even in a virtual setup – beautifully done from my perspective.

Commit to growth

Many businesses halted their operations during the pandemic and lost customers. Ms. Anj shared that TalentView kept their customers top of mind, saying, “Stay close to your customers. Add value to them.” When one of my projects was put on hold, my coach told me, “Keep them warm. Maintain the momentum.” Continuing to find ways to engage my stakeholders, such as check-ins or progress updates, helped keep them informed and valued. Relationship building was TalentView’s attempt to grow despite trying times. “We didn’t know if we were going to meet our targets,” said Ms. Anj, but with their conscious efforts, they hit it and even strengthened their customer portfolio.

“Better Breakfast,” where employees are randomly grouped to talk about their lives and work. In my previous organization, we used to have a group breakfast where one HR function was spotlighted to share their initiatives and achievements. I can attest that this is an enjoyable time in the workplace to connect with others and appreciate what they do for the company.

Besides the “Better Breakfast,” Ms. Anj also shared that they have internal mobility and well-being initiatives. I strongly agree that looking after well-being is a must, especially with the burnout of working alternatively from home and work. In my experience, this is a strong employee benefit as many leave the company to care for their health.

Think differently

When we want to differentiate ourselves, we always return to our vision. Ms. Anj said, “Ideas should impact the goals you want to achieve.” With the Internet and emerging AI technology, there will always be a lot of ideas available to us. Yet again, it must be cohesive and true to the company’s goals. Ms. Anj shared a great example of how they helped Del Monte increase employer awareness and attract more candidates. Through TalentView’s data analytic strengths, they found the need to establish an online presence. Their success came when Del Monte attracted 900+ LinkedIn followers and filled out new roles.

Reflecting on the above principles, I commend Ms. Anj’s fearlessness in making her mark in the HR and Employer Branding industry. She further shared that HR would continue to thrive through competencies in being numbers-driven, telling stories through data, and balancing human and technology needs. She said, “Be curious.” The talent attraction shift dynamically. Today, human capital values employee engagement, growth, and development over the once sought-out compensation and benefits. When asked about her learnings as a leader, she shared, “It’s challenging because they think leaders control their own time. Be mentally strong and take care of yourself.” I value Ms. Anj’s honesty that you must help yourself first. For her, only then can you truly inspire and develop others.

The author is an MBA student at the Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business, DLSU. She can be reached at pia_marie_tupas@dlsu.edu.ph.

The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty and its administrators.

Tourism sustains recovery, visitor arrivals reach 3.41m

By Othel V. Campos

INTERNATIONAL visitor arrivals reached 3.41 million as Aug. 13, representing 70.3 percent of the full-year target of 4.8 million, a Department of Tourism official said Monday.

DOT Undersecretary Mae Elaine Bathan also said foreign tourism receipts reached P285 billion in the first half of the year.

“These numbers show so much optimism for the department and for our country, and so much inspiration that we will be able to reach our target and reach pre-pandemic levels of 8 million in 2025,” Bathan said in the 2023 postSONA discussions held in Laoag City,

PSE INDEX CLOSING

Ilocos Norte.

“The country’s chief economists have identified tourism as the second biggest economic driver in the first half of the year,” she said.

The DOT expects to sustain the recovery with the roll-out of the National Tourism Development Plan, supported by the three key strategies of connectivity, equality and convenience in travel.

It said that in the first six months, the agency trained about 70,000 tourism workers on the Filipino brand of service excellence.

The DOT recorded over 5.35 million individuals employed in tourism-related industries in 2022, representing 93 percent of the industry’s employment figures in 2019 before the pandemic.

“The recovery rate, as compared to last year, has never been more promising. In 2022, gauging from the 2019 levels, we have a recovery rate of 35 percent for the month of February to December last year. Our recovery rate from January to July of this year, when compared to how we performed in 2019, is already at 66 or about 67 percent. These numbers will continue to

Vista Land logged 83% profit growth in first half

VISTA Land & Lifescapes Inc. said Monday net income grew 83 percent in the first half to P5.8 billion from a year ago on aggressive project launches.

grow as we have several projects and programs in our pipeline,” Bathan said.

She said tourist rest areas around the country are expected to attract more tourists, including two in Northern Luzon―Pagudpud and Baguio.

The DOT is also launching by end of August a hotline and a call center where foreign and local visitors can contact the DOT for any tourist-related concern.

The DOT said that in collaboration with the Department of Public Works and Highways, it allocated at least P5 billion for tourism development, including P864 million for roads leading to tourist destinations in Region 1, P200 million in Region 2 and P130 million in the Cordillera Autonomous Region.

Vista Land said in a disclosure to the stock exchange consolidated revenue reached P18.3 billion in the six-month period, up 8 percent year-on-year. Real estate revenue accounted for P8 billion, while rental income reached P7.9 billion.

The company also recognized a gain from the proceeds of insurance amounting to P1.8 billion. Minus one-off items, core net income amounted to P4.2 billion.

“We are pleased with our performance for the first semester of 2023 as we have sustained our growth trajectory for the year. We have been launching more projects this year compared to last year. These launches will form part of our huge project pipeline,” Vista Land chairman Manuel Villar said.

The company launched P24.3 billion worth of projects in the first half. Reservation sales amounted to P35.6 billion, or 12 percent higher than in same period last year. Jenniffer B. Austria

ICTSI’s income grew 7% to $313.8m in six months

INTERNATIONAL Container Terminal Services Inc. said Monday net income rose 7 percent in the first half from a year earlier on higher operating income.

The port operator said net income amounted to $313.80 million in the six-month period, up from $294.48 million a year ago. Secondquarter profit rose 5 percent to $159.19 million from $152.20 million.

“ICTSI’s diversified portfolio, operational discipline and the determined focus from our fantastic team around the world has enabled us to deliver another strong financial performance,” said ICTSI chairman and president Enrique Razon Jr.

“We have a robust balance sheet and a highly cash generative business which looking ahead, will enable us to continue our strong track record of investing in our terminals to support future growth for the benefit of all our stakeholders,” he said.

Darwin G. Amojelar

AbaCore Capital Holdings earned P309m in first half

ABACORE Capital Holdings Inc., a company with interests in real estate, tourism, finance and energy, posted a net income of P308.8 million—or P0.0722 per share—in the first half of 2023. This was a reversal from a net loss of P15.5 million, or P0.0025 per share, in the same period last year.

BSP DONATION. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Eli Remolona Jr. (right of each photo) leads the turnover of donations to six health institutions at the BSP head office in Manila in line with its 30th year celebration on July 3, 2023. With Remolona in the photos are (clockwise) Philippine Red Cross chairman Richard Gordon, Lung Center of the Philippines executive director Dr. Vincent Balanag Jr., Philippine Children’s Medical Center donations committee chairperson Dr. Randy Urtula, Philippine General Hospital director Dr. Gerardo Legaspi and Philippine Heart Center executive director Dr. Joel Abanilla. The National Kidney and Transplant Institute is also among the beneficiaries this year.

Metro Pacific sees core income topping P16.1-b target for 2023

By Jenniffer B. Austria

METRO Pacific Investments Corp. said Monday it will likely exceed the P16.1billion core net income target for 2023 as major toll roads, and water businesses surpassed their targets in the first half.

MPIC chief finance officer Chaye Cabal-Revilla said in a news briefing the company’s 2023 core net income would also likely top the P15.6 billion record core net income achieved before the prepandemic.

“We are trending to exceed our targets for this year given the good results of our

NEIGHBORHOOD BAKERY.

12C4 Bread Station, a chain of friendly neighborhood bakeries, goes to Cebu City and opens its newest branch along V. Rama Avenue.

Known for its ‘always fresh and hot breads, the newest branch is a welcome addition to Cebu business community. Shown are business partners Chique Magpayo and Jennifer Yu Teson in front of the newly-opened bakery.

12C4 Bread Station started as a stand-alone kiosk in Valenzuela City during the pandemic and rapidly expanded to more areas to meet rising demand in communities.

core business. Our target was P16.1 billion before, so we will likely exceed that,”

Cabal-Revilla said.

MPIC’s core net income climbed 33 percent year-on-year to P9.9 billion in the first half on improved operating results from toll road, power and water businesses.

Net income in the first semester also rose 8 percent to P10.2 billion from P9.5 billion in the same period last year which had the benefit of gains from the acquisition of Landco PacificCorp. Among the company’s core businesses, power had the largest share at P9 billion or

72 percent of net operating income, while toll roads and water contributed P2.7 billion and P2.3 billion, respectively.

“Our consistently strong performance reflects significant volume increases for our core businesses on power, toll roads and water, bolstered by favorable tariff adjustments and savings resulting from operational efficiencies. We are also realizing the fruits of strategic investments in the power generation business, and we expect this to continue to be a driver of growth in the future,” said MPIC chairman, president and chief executive Manuel Pangilinan.

Meanwhile, toll road unit Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. is looking to re-list in the Philippine Stock Exchange by next year.

MPTC president and chief executive Rogelio Singson said the planned share sale would depend on how fast it could get ongoing projects done and have the committed tariff ready for implementation.

Singson said MPTC plans to use the proceeds from the initial public offering to repay its debt amounting to P140 billion.

Water utility firm Maynilad Water Services Inc. is also preparing to hold an IPO in 2025, two years ahead of the deadline.

DOTr to open bidding for NAIA rehabilitation project next week

THE Department of Transportation said Monday it will start inviting bidders for the rehabilitation and expansion of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport next week.

“We’re in the process of finalizing the terms of reference and hopefully by next week we will be able to publish the TOR and invite prospective bidders,” Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said during the Philippine economic briefing in Laoag City.

The DOTr and the Manila International Airport Authority will serve as co-grantors for the project, which would have a 15-year concession and an option for a 10-year extension.

The agency expects to award the P170-billion contract for NAIA rehabilitation by end-2023.

It said the project aims to address longstanding issues at NAIA such as the inadequate capacity of passenger terminal buildings and restricted aircraft movement.

It also intends to increase the annual airport capacity from 35 million to at

least 62 million passengers and raise air traffic movement from 40 to 48 per hour.

The project is also expected to improve the overall passenger experience and service quality to prevent long queues, lengthy waiting times and other passenger inconveniences.

It will broaden NAIA’s role as a key economic and tourism driver for Metro Manila and the whole Philippines, deliver capital infrastructure investment to improve the airport’s efficiency and increase its capacity to meet the growing passenger demand from the Philippines and the Asia Pacific region.

The National Economic and Development Authority board, chaired by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., earlier approved the solicited proposal to rehabilitate, operate, expand and transfer the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. It is now known as the Solicited NAIA PPP Project.

Darwin G. Amojelar

PLDT, GCash vow to work with military, gov’t agencies to combat cyberattacks

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE PLDT Group vowed to work closely with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to bolster the country’s cybersecurity infrastructure against attacks, including those believed to be state-sponsored.

PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications chairman Manuel Pangilinan said during the Philippine Air Force’s Castle Siege 2 cybersecurity exercise that cybersecu-

rity stakeholders should establish and improve communication lines.

“Whether it’s sharing threat intelligence, best practices, joint simulation exercises, we need to come together in order to protect our shared cyberspace together.

The quality of attacks has leveled up in sophistication,” Pangilinan said.

The Philippines is now being bombarded with cyber-attacks daily. PLDT said that in the first half of the year, the group thwarted

more than 5.5 billion cyber-attacks and attempts to breach its digital network.

Pangilinan underscored the importance of upskilling cyber warriors. “Plans and strategies work best if we have the right teams and the right personnel to back these up. We need to bolster the ranks of our cyber warriors,” he said.

Meanwhile, GCash, the mobile wallet of Globe Telecom, lauded the successful operations of the Department of Justice,

the National Bureau of Investigation and the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group against cybercriminals.

“GCash is supportive of the operations of the DOJ, NBI and PNP-ACG in going after perpetrators. We are an active partner of our law enforcement agencies as we exchange technical knowledge and expertise on the latest cybersecurity measures,” said Atty. Maria Corazon AlvarezAdriano, chief legal officer of GCash.

The company attributed the income growth to a gain of P278.8 million from the sale of investment property. Other sources of income were a gain of P75.8 million from the sale of an investment in a subsidiary and interest income of P10.8 million.

ABA’s net income in the first half represented 77 percent of its operating income for 2022 — a testament to the momentum the company is enjoying with regards to the business ventures it signed in recent years.

“ABA’s most recent financial performance shows that we are on the right track in terms of diversifying our operations across various sectors. This should lead to ABA generating more income and providing better returns for shareholders,” said Antonio VF Gregorio III , vice-chairman and vice-president of investor relations at ABA.

“As we move towards the succeeding quarters, we will continue to leverage our strengths — which include us being the investment gateway in Batangas and our expertise across the various markets we operate in,” he said.

Alsons’ first-half profit increased 70% to P1.17b

By Alena Mae S. Flores

ALSONS Consolidated Resources Inc., the publicly-listed company of the Alcantara Group, saw first-half net earnings rise 70 percent to P1.17 billion from P689 million a year ago, led by the strong performance of power units.

Alsons said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Monday net earnings in the second quarter also increased 65 percent to P605.28 million from P364.93 million a year earlier.

Net income attributable to the parent grew 91 percent to P346.14 million in the first half from P180.68 million last year. Second-quarter attributable net earnings reached P255.98 million, up by 182 percent from P90.51 million a year ago.

Alsons said revenues rose to P6.9 billion in the first six months from P5.4 billion generated in the same period in 2022. Second-quarter revenues were also higher at P3.6 billion, compared to P2.73 billion last year.

The company said its 210-megawatt Sarangani Energy Corp. baseload power plant and the 100-MW Western Mindanao Power Corp. continued to be income drivers.

WMPC is the only major power generation facility in the Zamboanga Peninsula, providing power to Zamboanga City and supplying vital ancillary services to the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines to help stabilize the power grid in Western Mindanao.

Alsons said it focused on building up renewable capacity in the next few years as part of its revenue and generation diversification program.

The company is developing the 14.5MW Siguil hydro power plant in Maasim, Sarangani which is expected to begin operations before the end of this year.

TNT keeps PBA 3x3 dominance

TNT kept its mastery of the PBA 3x3 grand finals Sunday night.

The Triple Giga rode on the hot hands of Gryan Mendoza, before Almond Vosotros nailed the gameclincher against top seed Cavitex, 21-18, to retain the First Conference championship at the Ayala Malls Market! Market!

TNT trailed early on 7-12, but Mendoza found his range and waxed hot, putting the team in front, 18-17, heading into the final two minutes of the thrilling match.

From there, Vosotros took care of business and hit the winning basket that secured the franchise’s fifth straight conference title and the P750,000 prize money that went with it.

“Definitely, this is just a testament on how good this team is,” said champion coach Mau Belen at the conclusion of the opening conference of Season 3.

Young PH driver Go picked for Ferrari Driver Academy

By Randy Caluag

YOUNG Filipino ace karter William Go was selected by the Ferrari Driver Academy from among hundreds of applicants to join its selection program for the pool of drivers that will someday make up the Formula One team.

“I’m thrilled to share the exciting news that I’ve been selected to take part in the upcoming Ferrari Driver Academy Trials next month. This Selection Program is where Ferrari chooses the next drivers, they want to include in their Ferrari Driver Academy,” said Go in his social media post.

After passing the initial screening of the initial list of young talents from Asia Pacific and Oceania, the 15-yearold Go made it to the next batch that was

Special PSA Forum to tackle FIBA World Cup

WITH less than two weeks before basketball’s biggest event formally kicks off, top officials of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and the Local Organizing Committee will talk about last-minute preparations being done for the success of the FIBA World Cup staging when they guest in a special edition of the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum on Tuesday.

The weekly session set at 11 a.m., will be held at the Meralco Conference Hall in Ortigas, with SBP president Al S. Panlilio heading the panel of special guests.

Panlilio is going to discuss what is expected of the country’s co-hosting of the World Cup along with Japan and Indonesia, which simultaneously comes off the wraps starting Aug. 25.

It will be the first time the so-called Olympic of basketball returns to the country since it was last staged here in 1978 at the historic Araneta Coliseum.

Joining Panlilio in the Forum are SBP executive-director Sonny Barrios, deputy event director Erika Dy, joint management committee head John Lucas, and Cignal TV president Jane Basas.

PSA president Nelson Beltran, sports editor of the Philippine Star, enjoins officials and members of the country’s oldest media organization to attend the session presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, MILO, Philippine Olympic Committee, and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

The program is being livestreamed via the PSA Facebook page and fb.com/ PhilippineSportswritersAssociation and aired on a delayed basis over Radyo Pilipinas 2, which also shares it on its official Facebook page.

trimmed to 25.

Go was the only aspirant from the Philippines and the rest came from India, New Zealand, Australia, China, and South Korea.

They will undergo rigid screening that includes skills’ tests at Sepang Circuit in Malaysia, and fitness and proficiency tests in dealing with the team and media. There will also be media and sponsorship sessions along the way before they announce the top 6 drivers. This

small group then gets one last shot to impress the FDA and Motorsport Australia representatives for a shot in the FDA Scouting World Finals at the end of October.

“I believe this journey will open doors to a wealth of opportunities – expanding my knowledge, forging valuable relationships, increasing media presence, and hopefully, attracting sponsors who can play a crucial role in advancing my career to the next level,” added the multi-titled karter from Cebu.

Even at a young age, Go is already an accomplished karter, having won several titles in Asia, He event went to Europe to focus full-time on racing.

Go has won championships in the IAME Series Asia, ROK Cup Singapore, and Asian Karting Open Championship, before moving to Europe and focusing to race full-time.

Mendoza took away the scoring honor from Vosotros as he finished with 10 points. Vosotros, whose long reign as the tournament’s scoring champion, added seven points, five rebounds, and six assists.

Lervin Flores had three points and seven rebounds, while Samboy De Leon added a basket for the second seeded Triple Giga, who were cheered on the sideline by TNT 5-on-5 champion coach and team manager Jojo Lastimosa.

Cavitex was led by the seven points of Dominick Fajardo, while Jorey Napoles, who was crowned as the meet’s newest scoring king added six. The runner-up finish was worth P250,000 for the Braves of coach Kyles Lao, who were supported by the personal appearance of NLEX alternate governor Ronald Dulatre.

In the battle for third place, Meralco took down Barangay Ginebra, 18-14, to bag the P100,000 prize money. Cavitex and TNT, seeded no. 2, both went through the wringer in the semis to arrange the titular showdown.

The Braves turned back Joseph Sedurifa and the Meralco Bolts in overtime, 17-16, behind the game-winner of Bong Galanza, while the Triple Giga defeated Barangay Ginebra Kings, 21-16, as Vosotros caught fire late in the game.

Earlier, the four seeded teams made the semifinals by disposing their respective foes in the opening round of the knockout phase.

Reyes: Europe, China stints gave Gilas PH game-time experience

By Peter Atencio

TRIPS to Europe and China in the past days and months have allowed members of the Gilas Pilipinas national men’s basketball pool to simulate game-time conditions during their preparations for the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Gilas coach Chot Reyes said the experiences learned when they took on other national teams from Estonia, World Cup-bound Finland and Latvia and top clubs in Lithuania in Europe and China are finally being appreciated during their scrimmages.

“I wanted the boys to get a taste of the pace and physicality of European basketball. And it was the same thing with China,” said Reyes.

Gilas practiced Sunday without injured big man, 6’8” Poy Erram, who will no longer continue his bid to seek a slot in the final lineup of Gilas for the World Cup because of his knee injury.

The team also has two injured players in Kai Sotto and Scottie Thompson, who are not going into full-on scrimmages with the rest of the team.

But this time, they have Utah Jazz cager Jordan Clarkson with them as he continues to get used to the humid conditions and quickly get over his jet lag.

Reyes said that in the past, the coaching staff was not able to raise the level of intensity of the practices, since the players had little idea of how their opponents are playing.

“No matter how intense we try to ele-

vate the practices, we still cannot simulate the game intensity,” added Reyes.

Facing squads from Senegal and Iran also gave Gilas a chance to know how African and Middle Eastern squads play as well.

Team Philippines is getting ready for its first game against the Dominican Republic on August 25 at th e Araneta Coliseum with NBA star Karl Anthony Towns around.

The 7’0” Towns of the Minnesota Timberwolves carried the Dominican Republic as they eliminated a full-strength 2019 runners-up Argentina in the qualifiers.

So far, Roger Pogoy, Calvin Oftana and Bobby Ray Parks have showed up at the practices, after the three missed the Europe training camp.

FIBA World Cup 2023 Trophy Tour to cover 4 PH venues

FILIPINO basketball fans all over the country will get a chance to see the top prize in international basketball as the Naismith Trophy will be flown to Cebu, Davao, Manila, and Ilocos Norte for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Trophy Tour Presented by J9.basketball.

Aside from seeing the solid gold trophy that will be awarded to the winner of the upcoming World Cup, fans will also get to meet Gilas Pilipinas greats who are serving as ambassadors for the event.

The Naismith Trophy will arrive on August 14 in Cebu. On August 15, morning activities will be touring around the Mactan Shrine, CCLEX, and Fort San Pedro. In the afternoon, the Naismith Trophy will be in full display at SM Seaside, together with sharpshooters Gary David and Jeff Chan. Special performances from the University of Cebu Cheering Team and 2010 Sinulog Idol Grand Winner Jacky Chang are also sure to excite the local fans.

Next up on the tour will be Davao, as there will be stops at the People’s Park,

Philippine Eagle Center, and Malagos Chocolate Museum. The Davao stop will be capped with a celebration at the SM Lanang Premier on August 18 with Gary David and two-time Best Point Guard in Asia Jayson Castro.

Performing in Davao are the Madayaw Cheer Revolution Cheetahs, the dance group Fusion, and Ralph Angelo Merced.

Manila will be the next stop on August 19 where the Naismith Trophy will tour all the playing venues in the Philippine

Arena, Smart - Araneta Coliseum, and SM Mall of Asia Arena. Larry Fonacier and other Gilas Ambassadors will be joining the event at the SM Mall of Asia Atrium on August 20 where the multiawarded UP Pep Squad and the gold medalists from the recently concluded World of Dance Junior Championship Electro Groovers will be performing.

Ilocos Norte will be the last stop, with stopovers at the EDC Wind Farm, Kapurpurawan Rock Formation, and Suba Sand Dunes from August 21 to 23.

Robinsons Place Ilocos Norte will be the venue for the mall event on August 23, where Gilas Ambassadors will once again accompany the Naismith Trophy, with performances from the Saguday Performing Arts Group and “Princess Rapper of the North” Faifai Flojo.

The FIBA World Cup games will kick off on August 25 with Angola taking on Italy followed by Gilas Pilipinas facing off against the Dominican Republic at the Philippine Arena, and Mexico versus Montenegro and Egypt battling Lithuania at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Fans will be able to witness opening day games at the Philippine Arena, and succeeding games at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, by availing of tickets via ticketnet.com.ph. or at ticket outlets located at the Yellow Gate of the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Fishermall, Eastwood Mall, SM Aura, SM Fairview, SM Makati, SM Manila, SM North EDSA, SM Megamall, SM San Lazaro, SM Southmall, SM Sta Mesa, SM Mall of Asia, SM Marikina, and Robinsons Department Store Galleria.

Tickets for games at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, on the other hand, are on sale at smtickets.com. or at ticket outlets located at the Coral Box Office of SM Mall of Asia Arena, SM Cinemas at SM Aura, Clark, Bacolod, Davao, Baguio, Grand Central, Cebu, Manila, Batangas, Iloilo, Marilao, Megamall, BF, Lanang, North EDSA, Podium, Cagayan de Oro, Sta Rosa, and Southmall; SM Store Business Center outlets at SM Cubao, Mall of Asia, and Makati; and at the SM Skating and Leisure Center at SM Mall of Asia.

TNT players, led by Almond Vosotros, celebrate their PBA 3x3 title romp.

Jordan Clarkson

William Go

Australia, England primed for colossal World Cup duel

SYDNEY—Australia and England clash in the Women’s World Cup semi-fi nals on Wednesday in Sydney in the latest installment of a long-standing sporting rivalry between the countries.

Co-hosts Australia have the nation behind them for the first World Cup semi-final in their history and Stadium Australia will be heaving with an anticipated crowd of about 80,000.

Their heart-stopping penalty shootout win over France in the quarter-finals on Saturday was one of the most-viewed television sporting events in Australia in almost two decades.

But England are the European champions and will be favourites to reach the final of the World Cup for the first time, even if they must face down a hostile crowd.

It was put to England’s Dutch coach Sarina Wiegman that she probably did not fully appreciate the enormity of a match between Australia and England.

“It’s going be really big,” she said, with Spain or Sweden awaiting the winner.

“But now I’ve had a couple of questions about that so it’s probably going to be bigger than I imagined now.

“I’ll talk to my players and staff and see what that rivalry is.”

The storied sporting rivalry between Australia and England has already witnessed several episodes this year.

Australia won both the men’s and women’s Ashes cricket series. Australia’s netball team then rubbed salt in English wounds by beating them in the recent World Cup final.

England football captain Millie Bright understands how much it means to fans of both countries.

“I don’t think you can’t look forward to that game,” she told reporters after England came back from a goal down to defeat Colombia 2-1 in

the quarter-finals.

“This is the biggest tournament in the women’s game to date so what a game to be a part of.”

She added: “We’re not just coming here to compete, we’re coming here to get the job done and we’ve shown that in our mentality and character in every single game.”

Team-mate Lauren Hemp, who scored the equaliser against Colombia, said:

“Australia, bring it on.

“It’s going to be a packed stadium with so many Australian fans, but we know if we play at our best we are unstoppable.”

England will again be without the banned Lauren James, but they did not miss her in a convincing performance against Colombia in front of a crowd roaring on the South Americans.

Perfectly primed

England may be ranked six places

above the Matildas in the FIFA rankings but the home side are riding on a wave of excitement and acclaim.

They have used the support to lift them in difficult moments and will be banking on more of the same at the imposing Stadium Australia.

They also go into the game after defeating England 2-0 away in an April friendly, ending the Lionesses’ proud 30-match unbeaten run.

Australia also have striker and skipper Sam Kerr back in the frame after a calf injury.

Coach Tony Gustavsson’s biggest decision will be whether to start the prolific Chelsea forward.

He has named an unchanged side in their last three games, but Kerr played 65 minutes against France and it looks increasingly likely she will play a full part.

Alcaraz renews rivalry with Djokovic

CINCINNATI—Carlos Alcaraz has put his quarter-final loss at the Toronto Masters behind him as he prepares to renew his rivalry with Novak Djokovic in Cincinnati next week.

The Spanish world number one made a surprisingly early exit in Canada, bundled out of the last eight by Tommy Paul in three sets to end a lacklustre campaign.

But the 20-year-old was in no mood to dwell on that loss on Sunday as he looked ahead to the Cincinnati Masters, the last warm-up before he launches the defence of his US Open crown later this month.

This week’s tournament in the Midwest carries added intrigue with a field that contains 23-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic.

Women’s

“What’s good is that we have continuity in what we’re doing,” said Gustavsson.

“We have a clear playing style, so we don’t really need to train to be tactically prepared.

“It’s more about making sure we’re mentally and physically prepared for the semi-final. These players are on a mission.”

Vice-captain Steph Catley said they were “just primed for this moment”.

“We’ve got a perfect little balance of a core group that understand the gravity of the situations and a small group of younger players who might not understand the gravity, which is kind of bliss,” she told reporters.

“You’ve got their confidence and their flair, and then we’ve got mature (players) bringing an understanding to moments like that.” AFP

Bachmann applauds ROTC Games

ILOILO CITY—Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann applauded the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Games Visayas Regional leg in his opening speech during its opening ceremony on Sunday, August 13, in IloIlo City.

Bachmann reiterated the reserve officers’ program achievements and its historical mark that showed the character of the youth for the betterment of the future.

“Today, we are gathered here in Iloilo for the inaugural ROTC Games Visayas Regional leg. This is indeed a milestone in the history of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, showcasing the dedication, discipline, and teamwork of our future leaders.” Bachmann said.

“As we witness our cadets compete at the highest level of play, we all should realize that this is not just a showing of their physical prowess and mental agility, but also a display of their commitment to the betterment of our society - a commitment that resonates deeply with the principles of the ROTC program.” he added.

Present in the event were Sen. Francis Tolentino, IloIlo City Mayor Jerry Trenas, Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., and Cong. Anthony Rolando Golez Jr.

Rejuvenated Folayang eyes career rebirth vs Khan

A NEW day beckons for twotime ONE Lightweight World Champion Eduard “Landslide” Folayang as he makes his much awaited return to the ONE Championship Circle.

The Filipino mixed martial arts legend crosses paths anew with Amir Khan when they collide at ONE Fight Night 14: Stamp vs. Ham on September 30 at Singapore Indoor Stadium.

“I can’t even begin to describe the level of excitement that’s coursing through me as I look forward to the rematch against Amir Khan on September 30th,” said Folayang.

Indeed, it’s seen as a rebirth for Landslide who now leads a new pack under his own Lions Nation MMA stable.

“This fight represents so much more than just a battle in the Circle; it’s a shot at redemption,

a golden opportunity to rewrite my story, and a chance to open a new, exhilarating chapter in my career,” he said.

This is also a chance for Folayang to display what he learned in his two-month United States sojourn earlier this year where he and former ONE Strawweight World Champion Joshua “The Passion” Pacio trained with elite coaches in Greg Jackson and Mike Winklejohn of Jackson Wink MMA and Rafael Cordeiro of King’s MMA.

That’s not even counting the expertise he has garnered from their very own Lions Nation trainers, namely multi-medalled Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt Gibran Langbayan and veteran striking coach Don-Don Colas.

“The road to this moment has been grueling, but it’s in this adversity that I’ve found the

strength to push forward,” Folayang said.

A lot may have changed in Landslide’s life, but he’s hopeful that the result will be the same when he and Khan tussle again – with his arms raised in jubilation. Folayang dominated the Singaporean in their first duel back in 2018 en route to reclaiming the ONE Lightweight World Championship at ONE: Conquest of Champions.

“I’m ready to showcase the culmination of my hard work, to seize this chance to prove that setbacks are just setups for comebacks,” he said.

This massive rematch will be part of a stacked card headlined by former two-sport World Champion Stamp Fairtex and the red-hot Ham Seo Hee for the ONE Interim Atomweight World Championship.

The students witnessed the live parade and dance performances of cadets. It already brought delight to the crowd but it was surpassed by a jet plane from the Philippine Air Force, which soared in the sky that fascinated those who gazed at it.

He also imparted the ROTC’s purpose is to give values and other traits that will be useful in their lives.

“The ROTC Games are not just about competition; they embody the values that the ROTC program instills in our youth and the next generation. The ideals of leadership, camaraderie, and service to the nation are exemplified by these men and women, who have trained diligently to compete at this level.” he added.

ROTC program is a multisport event that catered cadets to bolster their skills and to teach the importance of physical education.

The Visayas leg will start today until its closing ceremony next Sunday, August 19. There are more than a thousand athletes already registered from region 6, 7 and 8 under the reserve officers’ program from the area.

There will be a Mindanao leg on Aug. 27 and a South Luzon leg in Cavite. NCR will be the last destination for the qualified players, held in Pasig and Manila, but still there’s no definite date as of now.

The pair last met in the Wimbledon final, with the Spaniard prevailing in a five-set classic. Djokovic has not played since that defeat a month ago, and Alcaraz can’t wait to lock horns with the Serb once again.

“I like those battles. I like to know that I can lose, and I can recover it at the same time,” Alcaraz said on Sunday.

“You must enjoy (it) when the battle is against one of the legends from our sport, against Novak.

“I feel I’m (the) main opponent; for me, it’s something crazy, and I’m trying to enjoy.”

Alcaraz got caught out on Friday in Toronto as he lost to American Paul. But the bitter taste did not linger long.

“The main goal is to stay in the top spot,” Alcaraz said. “And if I lose it, try to recover it as fast as I can.”

He added that his recent Canadian setback should remain a distant - if unpleasant - memory.

ROS falls to Emirates for 3rd straight Jones Cup loss

TAIPEI, Taiwan—The first win remained elusive through three games for Rain or Shine as United Arab Emirates escaped with a pulsating 73-71 decision in the 2023 William Jones Cup at the Taipei Heping Gymnasium here on Monday, Aug. 14.

The Elasto Painters faltered in the end game as Hamid Abdulateef Abreiki poured 15 of his 22 points in the final frame to frustrate the Filipinos and pick up his team’s first win in the tournament.

Six of those fourth quarter points also came in the last two minutes, including a triple that put UAE ahead, 71-69.

The Filipinos, though, had their chances in the end game after Nick Demusis pushed ROS closer at 71-72.

The Elasto Painters, however, came up dry in their possession in the final 24 seconds, forcing them to foul and send veteran big man Quais Alshabebi to the foul line with four ticks left in the clock.

Alshabebi botched his two free throws but got his own rebound allowing Abreiki to stretch the lead to two, 71-73.

Gian Mamuyac had one last heave to try and steal the game but his threepoint attempt was likewise foiled by UAE’s defense at the buzzer.

Alshabebi finished with 11 points while Rashed Alzaabi added 10.

Australia’s forward Sam Kerr and teammates celebrate at the end of the Australia and New Zealand 2023

World Cup quarter-final football match between Australia and France at Brisbane Stadium in Brisbane. AFP

Carlos Alcaraz

Nick Evans of Rain or Shine

PSC chairman Richard Bachmann

Eduard ‘Landslide’ Folayang

‘Barbie’ underscores Greta Gerwig's directorial triumph

WARNER Bros.’ hit Barbie dominated North American box offices for a fourth consecutive week, industry estimates showed Sunday, as director Greta Gerwig continues to bust industry records.

Gerwig, who with Barbie had already become the first solo woman director to rake in more than $1 billion at the global box office, this week became the highest-grossing woman director of all time in the domestic market, according to The Hollywood Reporter Industry watcher Exhibitor Relations estimated this weekend’s haul for Barbie at $33.7 million, bringing its domestic total to $526 million.

Gerwig is currently vying against Jennifer Lee, who co-directed the animated sequel to Disney’s Frozen with Chris Buck, to be the highest-grossing woman director of all time at the global box office.

Starring Margot Robbie as the iconic doll and Ryan Gosling as boyfriend Ken, Barbie has earned a whopping $1.2 billion worldwide.

Vilma Santos hopeful for MMFF 2023 spot

STAR for All Seasons Vilma Santos-Recto is starring in a new film titled When I Met You in Tokyo, alongside her favorite leading man Christopher de Leon. There’s a strong hope that this film will be included in the upcoming 2023 Metro Manila Film Festival.

The annual festival is expected to be filled with star-studded attractions, considering the confirmed entries such as the movies of Sharon CunetaAlden Richards (A Mother and Son’s Story), Dingdong Dantes-Marian Rivera (Rewind), Derek Ramsay-Beauty Gonzalez (K(ampon)), and Matteo Guidicelli-Cristine Reyes (Penduko).

Hopeful for a spot in the entries, she underscores MMFF’s Christmas appeal for movie enthusiasts. If chosen, their film’s Christmas scene adds intrigue to a simple yet beautiful love story, enhanced by her collaboration with Boyet.

Shot significantly in Japan, they’re in the final

post-production stages, aiming for perfection.

Despite challenges, the smooth shoot reflected their dedication to their roles. She commends the dependable, harmonious crew that contributed to their successful execution.

Her screen partnership with Christopher is tried and tested. They starred in many films which were not only box-office hits but critically acclaimed as well. Here in their latest project, can she say that their chemistry is still the same?

“Oh, yes! It’s still there after all these times.

Actually, Boyet and I feel that it’s much better now because we’re more mature. You just can’t explain it. Chemistry is innate. It naturally comes out on screen,” Vilma states.

“That’s why until now, Boyet and I are still doing a movie. If we’re lucky to reach 85 years old, I wonder if we can still do potboilers together. Our chemistry is the magic secret,” she ends.

* * *

Until now, Bea Alonzo couldn’t believe that she’s finally engaged to Dominic Roque. According to the popular actress, they’re still in the stage of savoring their engagement, the reason why she doesn’t have a concrete answer yet as to when they will officially tie the knot.

“When Dom and I talk now, we are still processing the feeling of being engaged. We know we can’t go back to this feeling so we don’t want to get stressed when it comes to planning the wedding. In fact, we still haven’t tapped a wedding planner,” she reveals. Even the wedding theme or venue, they haven’t discussed yet.

“What we do right now is watch wedding videos so we can get tips when we start to plan our own. But as of now, we’re still enjoying our being engaged.

What’s definite is it will be an intimate affair!” Many are curious if she will invite perennial screen partner John Lloyd Cruz on her special day. “Of course! He will definitely be on the list. Actually, he’s one of the first ones who congratulated me. He said that he’s happy for me and that’s touching,” Bea states.

Universal’s Oppenheimer, a historical drama about the development of the atomic bomb, regained its second-place position, with the other half of the “Barbenheimer” phenomenon taking in an estimated $18.8 million over the weekend.

Last week Oppenheimer had been beaten by the Warner Bros. monster flick Meg 2: The Trench, which fell to fourth this week with an estimated $12.7 million.

Third place this weekend went to Paramount’s animated Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, up one spot from the week before with $15.8 million.

In its debut weekend, Universal’s vampire film The Last Voyage of the Demeter took a frighteningly distant fifth place, at just $6.5 million.

Based on Bram Stoker’s classic Dracula, the period film takes place on a doomed ship transporting the blood-sucker from his

blood-sucker Eastern Europe home to England. AFP

New partnership elevates return of much-anticipated pageant

By Nickie Wang

ABS-CBN, in collaboration with skincare brand Silka, has introduced the theme song “Kumikinang” as a centerpiece for the reimagined Binibining Silka pageant. The song, crafted by Jonathan Manalo, ABS-CBN Music’s creative director, adds a new dimension to the event.

“Kumikinang” resonates with the essence of Binibining Silka, embodying the qualities and aspirations sought by its contestants. With its mesmerizing melody and meaningful lyrics, the song is set to become an integral part of the pageant’s identity.

Performed by Angeline Quinto, the song’s debut marks a significant milestone in the pageant’s evolution, infusing it with a fresh, vibrant spirit. As anticipation grows, audiences await the chance to experience the captivating synergy between music and beauty at the upcoming Binibining Silka pageant.

“This year, we believe that it’s the best year to actually relaunch Miss Silka with its new title Binibining Silka. It will be bigger and bolder and a pageant like you’ve never seen before because it’s Silka with ABSCBN,” said Silka senior brand manager Eunice de Belen

“The song, which is another first in the pageant, specifically tells what Miss Silka is looking for in our candidates and the eventual winner,” De Belen went

on.

“The lyrics of the song embody what we are looking for in a Binibining Silka,” composer Manalo added.

ABS-CBN Regional in partnership with ABS-CBN Events stages the regional leg of the pageant, which started in Bicol on August 5 and in Dagupan for North Luzon leg on August 12. Then the pageant will head to Ilocos on August 19 and Palawan on August 26.

The regional competitions will continue on September 2 in Western Visayas, September 3 in Pampanga for Central Luzon region, September 16 in Northern Mindanao, September 17 in Batangas for Southern Tagalog, September 23 in Central Eastern Visayas, September 30 in Southern Mindanao, October 7 in Western Mindanao, and October 14 in the National Capital Region.

The grand coronation night, to be produced also by ABSCBN Events, will happen on October 29. The winner will receive P500,000 cash prize and a chance to be seen in ABS-CBN

shows.

Initially known as Miss Silka, Binibining Silka originated as a modest pageant in 2008, gaining national prominence within a year. Its most recent edition took place in 2019, just before the pandemic disrupted events. Numerous former contestants and titleholders have extended their influence to other prestigious competitions, including Binibining Pilipinas and international stages. Notable names among them include Nicole Borromeo, crowned Binibining Pilipinas International 2022, Alexandra Faith Garcia, who secured the title of Miss Aura International 2021, and Chelsea Fernandez, honored as Binibining Pilipinas Globe 2022. “Miss Silka used to serve as their foundation as a stepping stone. Our aspiration is that eventually, they aim for Binibining Silka. At present, our main focus remains within the Philippines, but we are open to plans of sending Binibining Silka winners to international pageants in the future,” De Belen ended.

GMA’s flagship newscast remains unrivaled as viewers' top news source

IN less than a year since its relaunch as a dynamic multi-platform and news organization, GMA Integrated News has cemented its position as the “News Authority ng Filipino.”

Its flagship newscast, 24 Oras, continues to be the viewers’ choice for the latest news, breaking stories, as well as the biggest events here and abroad.

Data from Nielsen TV Audience Measurement show that 24 Oras is still the most watched TV program for January 1 to July 31, 2023 in Total Philippines (combined Urban and Rural). It recorded a combined (GMA/GTV/IHM) people rating of 14.9 percent. Further, 24 Oras and 24 Oras Weekend tallied a combined (GMA/GTV/IHM) people net reach of 84 percent or 65 million viewers in Total Philippines.

Anchored by Mel Tiangco, Vicky Morales, and Emil Sumangil 24 Oras continues to uphold the tenets of journalism and deliver truthful, balanced, and credible news and information, as well as topnotch public service to Filipinos wherever they may be.

Providing 24 Oras viewers the latest entertainment news and updates is “Chika Minute” segment host Iya Villana-Arellano. The public also discovers new knowledge and stories behind phenomena with Kuya Kim Atienza’s trivia segment, “#KuyaKimAnoNa.”

With GMA Integrated News’ launch of the “GMA Integrated News Weather Center,” 24 Oras introduced Maureen Schrijvers as its weather presenter to

deliver weather news and updates weeknights.

24 Oras continues to evolve amid the changing landscape of journalism and news consumption. Earlier this month, it launched its latest segment, “Game Changer” with GMA Synergy sportscaster Martin Javier featuring the latest trends and new discoveries on fitness, lifestyle, technology, and anything that can change the pace of everyday life.

24 Oras Weekend, on the other hand, is anchored by Ivan Mayrina and Pia Arcangel and airs

Saturdays and Sundays.

GMA Integrated News boasts top anchors and impactful reporting winning numerous awards. The most recent of which is the “Pambansang Balita Award” at the 2023 Hiraya Awards for climate change series. 24 Oras won “Best TV News Program” at the 2023 Platinum Stallion National Media Awards; Vicky Morales got “Female News Anchor of the Year.” Mel Tiangco received the “Gandingan ng Kababaihan” at the 17th UP BroadSoc Gandingan Awards and the “JPL Lifetime Achievement Award” at The Golden Laurel: The Batangas Province Media Awards 2023.

GMA Integrated News also nabbed “Journalism of the Year for TV News Reporting” at the Rotary Club of Manila’s Pro Patria Journalism Awards. 24 Oras airs weeknights at 6:30 p.m. and 24 Oras Weekend is on weekends at 5:30 p.m. on GMA with simulcast on GTV, I Heart Movies, and Pinoy Hits.

Margot Robbie leads the Greta Gerwig-film, ‘Barbie’

Veteran actors Christopher de Leon (left) and Vilma Santos '24 Oras' anchors Emil Sumangil, Mel Tiangco, and Atom Araullo welcome new weather presenter, Maureen Schrijvers (second from right)

From left: Producer Jessamae Samson, ABS-CBN Music head Roxy Liquigan, Silka brand specialist Alexis Gloria and senior brand manager Eunice de Belen, and ABS-CBN Music creative director Jonathan Manalo

LIFE

Le Charme Suites Subic: Charming even on a long,

By Jimbo Gulle

IF you didn’t know already, August has a pair of long weekends coming up. The first is from August 19 to 21, as the 21st, a Monday, is Ninoy Aquino Day, a national holiday. The other is from August 26 to 28, when the nation marks National Heroes Day on the 28th, another Monday.

Now there are a million ways to spend a long weekend or two, but if you’re a family man like me, fewer things are more appealing than a staycation at a nice hotel away from the mad-

ding metropolis, but still close enough to the usual comforts of our modern age.

So, on one such weekend not too long ago, I bundled my brood of four into our trusty SUV and headed for Subic Bay –urban enough to have duty-free stores (and shopping malls) left and right but sufficiently serene that you could spend an afternoon just cooped up in your hotel room, watching the rain pelt your windows with their rhythmic frequency.

Our home for the next three days was the Le Charme Suites Subic, the only four-star hotel in the former US naval base that manages to do justice to its billing as a unique hospitality venue that delivers top-notch service.

From the moment we pulled up to the La Terraza Building on Palm Street, we knew we were in for what the Europeaninspired hotel touts as its “Magnifique Experience.” The narrow doorway leads to a comfortable foyer that features Le Charme’s front desk, plush seats (with a

with a cause

RAGING Bull Burgers prides itself on the practice of nose-to-tail butchery – using parts of the animal beyond the more standard cuts. All food and beverage in the shop are served in eco-friendly, recyclable, and compostable items such as Kraft paper-board boxes and utensils made of cornstarch.

This we learned at the recent opening of the burger joint’s third branch located at Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Ortigas.

Established in 2017, Raging Bull Burgers is a flavor-forward shop that has become popular with its patties that are made from choice cuts of brisket, rump, and wagyu, which are marinated in its chart-topping, original seasoning mix.

Ground daily, the beef comes from the best Australian and American beef cuts with a focus on highquality grain-fed and grass-fed beef. This is done by working with local farmers through a nose-to-tail approach.

The menu offers mean burgers with spunk in every bite. They are chargrilled and topped with locally sourced fresh produce and a special

secret sauce created in-house by the restaurant’s chefs. Fresh and kick-ass burger – the credo of Raging Bull Burgers. The interiors resonate with the whole philosophy of Raging Bull Burgers – a burger shop with a conscience and the attitude of a rock star. From the moment the diners step in, they are met with vibrant energy reverberating from each staff.

Raging Bull Burgers offers a variety of cuts, from brisket to rump, wagyu, and grass-fed beef.

“The foundation of any good burger is the meat. Beef has several different cuts with different flavor profiles, textures, purposes, and fat content. The meat-to-fat percentage of the burgers served here is 70/30 which is the ideal ratio to have a juicy, delicious, and moist patty,” says Joris Rycken, Shangri-La The Fort, Manila’s executive chef.

“Aside from the beef used to make the patty, an especially key factor would be the buns. Here we use corn buns - these soft, vaguely sweet, and golden-yellow buns are said to be perfect for burgers and any kind of sandwiches,” Rycken ended.

stuffed bear or two as a seatmate), and accents that stress its spiritual Parisian connection.

The country known for the Tour de France also imparts its signature race to Le Charme’s aesthetic, as bicycle racks can be found on the ground floor and each of the hotel’s bigger accommodations, like the family room we were ushered into on the third floor. The elevator itself was big and wide enough to fit maybe four or five bikes side by side, which we imagined to be a regular happening at this Subic sanctuary. Even the hotel’s carpeted hallways are wide enough for children to ride on toy cars and bikes, which are thoughtfully provided for parents with toddlers in tow.

In the room, the two queen beds were just right for our foursome, and if anybody wanted more space, they could lie down on the cushy sofa or sleep sitting down on the leather office chair or even the wicker chairs on the balcony. That’s where one

can catch a glimpse of the verdant hills of Bataan and Zambales to the back and the waters of the bay to the front.

For a better view, however, go all the way to the roof deck, where a long, inviting swimming pool tries its best to keep your eyes away from the lush surroundings -- one you’ll have a 240-degree view of (or so the brochure says).

The date palm-lined top floor of LeCharme has also gained a reputation as one of the area’s best wedding venues, what with the open sky and sunset witnessing many eternal unions of souls. (Those not tying the knot can still enjoy this area, of course, with the hotel’s regular Friday Sunset Club.)

No marriage pact is without a generous feast, which a hungry group of staycationers also cannot go without. Le Charme has a variety of delicacies within its walls, starting with its in-house Mi Tapas restaurant that serves up a Spanish

storm. Here, one can savor its Seafood Paella and Asado Croquetas in the coziness of its veranda surrounded by glass walls and ceiling on the third floor.

A shabu-shabu restaurant on the ground floor also serves a delectable, authentic Chinese hot pot perfect for sharing with family and friends, which you can later wash down with Nai Cha milk tea and have Chi Pie for dessert. If that’s not your, er, cup of tea, then Le Charme Café has its own variety of pastries you can wash down with your preferred brew.

And if you feel guilty after partaking in all those culinary treats, Le Charme has its own fitness center that features the first spin bike class in Subic Bay, which can also be held on the roof deck so you and your crew can enjoy a “sunset spinning session.” If that gets too tiring, then head down to the hotel’s well-appointed sauna and spa, where an attendant can give you a satisfying massage at reasonable rates. Read full story on manilastandard.net

kick-ass burger

MAKATI Shangri-La, Manila, reopened its doors on August 8th with a bold vision to build on three decades of history in the heart of Manila’s premier financial and commercial district. The award-winning hotel welcomes guests once again with fresh beginnings that elevate the experience.

“Makati Shangri-La, Manila is an iconic landmark that has long been woven into the rich history of Makati City. For the past three decades, the hotel has provided a tranquil sanctuary within the city’s bustling business district,” said Udo Wittich hotel manager at the Makati Shangri-La, Manila.

“The reopening symbolizes a fresh beginning for Makati Shangri-La, Manila. It presents us a unique opportunity to provide guests with refreshed experiences and colorful joys of life that span our accommodations, dining destinations, and even in the ways we work with our community,” Wittich carried on.

To further elevate its status as one of Makati’s leading corporate business hotels, Makati Shangri-La will be introducing a first-of-its-kind Horizon Club Business Room in the Philippines, designed to provide business travelers an enhanced in-room workshop that provides the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and functionality.

Each Horizon Club Business Room comes equipped with a range of remote work-friendly amenities such as an Omnidesk adjustable standing table paired with an ergonomic chair and fuss-free modern electronics featuring dual-screen 4K monitors, speakerphones, mobile stands, and fast-charging cable adaptors. The business traveler-centric design offers a conducive and distraction-free environ-

ment for work, ensuring elevated productivity.

Other hotel amenities such as the Health Club also returns to provide guests with state-of-the-art weight training and cardiovascular training systems, as well as a host of personal relaxation options such as the jacuzzi and cold plunge. Amenities such as the outdoor pool, children’s pool, and tennis courts will also be ready for families who desire outdoor activities.

The hotel spa will reopen in the first quarter of 2024.

Makati Shangri-La, Manila reopens with a renewed dining experience, offering a diverse range of Asian and Western cuisine. The iconic Lobby Lounge welcomes guests for light snacks with garden views.

Shang Palace, led by an experienced Chinese Executive Chef, introduces eight new signature Cantonese dishes. Sage grill returns with a focus on sustainable, quality ingredients, and other dining venues like Circles Event Café and Sage Bar are set to follow.

The hotel’s event spaces are ready to host memorable gatherings with a commitment to sustainability. Initiatives include eliminating single-use toiletries and adopting wooden key cards. A garden-totable approach will cultivate herbs and vegetables for select food offerings.

Deeply rooted in the community, Makati Shangri-La partners with the University of Makati, offering internships and potential jobs for Hospitality Management students, fostering world-class careers in hospitality.

For room reservations, kindly email reservations.makati@shangri-la.com. For dining reservations, kindly email dining. makati@shangri-la.com or call (+63 2) 8813 8888.