Manila Standard - 2023 August 16 - Wednesday

Solons alarmed by rising PH debt

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATE Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III on Tuesday expressed alarm over the escalating national debt, which is expected to reach P15.8 trillion by the end of 2024.

Pimentel warned this will burden every Filipino with a staggering debt load of P141,000.

Sen. Imee Marcos also said the country’s debts “keep on surging even if the COVID-19 pandemic is over.”

At the height of the pandemic, Marcos noted the government obtained a P2.74-trillion loan to bankroll the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines.

Pimentel said: “How come Filipinos should not worry about their ballooning

debt?”

He noted that the principal and debt payments are also ballooning and, yet, the total amounts to be paid are rising too.

During the briefing of the Development Budget Coordination Committee on the proposed P5.768-trillion budget outlay for 2024, Pimentel questioned the administration’s economic managers regarding debt servicing.

Specifically, he called for a thorough

dissection of the amounts involved.

For 2024, the government has set aside a staggering P1.9 trillion for debt principal and interest payments, with P1.2 trillion designated for the principal and approximately P670.5 billion for interest payments.

Pimentel noted that the P1.9 trillion accounts for 32.94 percent of the budget for next year. The nation’s total debt has reached P14 trillion as of May 2023, with an average interest rate of around 5% as disclosed by the National Treasurer prompted by Pimentel’s probing.

According to economic managers, the country’s debt is equivalent to 61% of its gross domestic product or GDP. While this debt-to-GDP ratio does

moved in 1999 – a move that Mercado said he strongly opposed.

not seem to alarm the economic managers, Pimentel said he was deeply concerned.

The current debt-to-GDP ratio stands at 61%, while that of its neighboring countries such as Malaysia and Thailand at 61.57% and Singapore at 167% of GDP, as mentioned by the National Treasurer.

The best proof that we are putting our debts to wise expenditures would be if we are able to bring down the absolute level of our debt,” Pimentel insisted, rather than seeking solace solely in the debt-to-GDP ratio.

“I hope the actual financial situation of the country will be explained to the people,” he added.

Meanwhile, Pimentel also scruti-

but has not done so after 24 years.

SC junks ABS P1-b countersuit vs. ‘Kuya Wil’

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Supreme Court has overturned the ruling rendered by the Court of Appeals reviving the over P1 billion compulsory counterclaim that television giant ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation sought against former Wowowee host Willie “Kuya Wil” Revillame for breaching his contract with the network in 2010.

“[If we import], I estimate our energy cost in Luzon will go up by 50 percent. And that will be devastating to everybody, that will fuel inflation. And consumers will suffer,” he added.

Recto Bank, northwest of Palawan and within the country’s exclusive economic zone, is said to possibly hold up to 5.4 billion barrels of oil and 55.1 trillion cubic feet of natural gas.

In January, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. told Chinese President Xi Jinping he is hopeful that efforts to revive talks on joint oil exploration in the West Philippine Sea will “bear fruit.”

Talks on the joint exploration of oil and gas between the two countries were “completely terminated” during the term of President Rodrigo Duterte.

Since January, however, Chinese incursions have continued and escalated, with a laser-pointing incident in February and the water cannon attack earlier this month.

In July, the Supreme Court denied with finality a tripartite partnership of the Philippines, China, and Vietnam to explore a portion of the West Philippine Sea for oil and gas.

The High Court struck down due to lack of merit the appeal of its January 10, 2023 decision declaring as unconstitutional the Tripartite Agreement for Joint Marine Seismic Undertaking (JMSU) by China National Offshore Oil Corp. (CNOOC), Vietnam Oil and Gas Corp. (PetroVietnam), and the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC).

to prove its claim that the Philippines made any promise to remove the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal where it has been serving as an outpost since 1999.

“It was claimed [by China] but we have no record of such an agreement.

We have asked them to give us a copy or any written copy of an agreement but they have never given us any copy,” Manalo told legislators during a budget hearing.

“If there is no clear indication that such an agreement, then we can assume that there is no such agreement that exists,” he added.

Mercado: Creeping invasion since 1995

Former Defense Secretary Orly Mercado said China has been doing a “creeping invasion” since 1995 when it occupied Mischief Reef.

Mercado said it was also unthinkable to claim that former President Joseph Estrada was the one who made a commitment to remove BRP Sierra Madre when he was the one who ordered its “deliberate grounding” in 1999 along with BRP Benguet in Scarborough Shoal.BRP Benguet, however, was re -

The ship’s removal was reportedly done to appease China, whose thenPremier, Zhu Rongji, was planning to cancel a visit to Manila in November 1999, Mercado said.

“Now we have no control over [Scarborough Shoal],” he said in a television interview Tuesday.

“The position of the Department of Foreign Affairs then was different from ours,” Mercado said, but clarified it did not mean a commitment was made to remove BRP Sierra Madre.

“I don’t believe that the President [Estrada] would have given them that promise,” Mercado said.

‘Don’t be a doormat, protect core interest’

Mercado also cautioned the Marcos administration against pursuing a “friend to all, enemy to none” diplomatic stance.

“There is no such thing. In a world of inequality and insecurity, it is very important that you identify your core national interest and you protect that. You’ll become the doormat of your neighbors if you do that,” he added.

On Monday, Chinese Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission Zhou Zhiyong claimed the Philippines “made an explicit commitment” to tow the navy ship

Makati City should continue to be tried, heard, and decided by the said courts.”

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, however, said China’s claim was nothing but “a psychological warfare at its best.”

“Now that we are rallying behind the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard, they tried to make up a statement that will make us fight internally. It’s psy-war. We should not succumb to psychological warfare. We should stand united,” Zubiri said.

P100m funding for Ayungin structures

Senator Francis Escudero, for his part, sought the allocation of at least P100 million in the 2024 national budget to bankroll the construction of permanent structures at Ayungin Shoal to strengthen the country’s presence. He said the move will give President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. some flexibility as the chief architect of the country’s foreign policy.

“Otherwise, we will have to wait another year if he decides to do so sometime next year without any budget cover,” Escudero said. “I don’t think anything prevents us from at least allocating funds in order to give the President flexibility to make the accommodations in that shoal more acceptable for our soldiers who are there instead of living in a dilapidated old ship. “

In a 22-page decision penned by Association Justice Maria Filomena D. Singh, the SC’s Third Division also dismissed two other petitions filed by ABS-CBN concerning copyright infringement against Revillame and TV5 owned by ABC Development Corporation (ABC Corporation) due to “deliberate and willful forum shopping.” According to the tribunal, the issues “actually and directly resolved in a former suit cannot again be raised in any future case between the same parties involving a different cause of action.”

In 2010, Revillame filed a P11-million damage suit against ABS-CBN, asking the court to make a judicial confirmation of the end of his contract with ABS-CBN.

In response, the network slapped him with a compulsory counter-claim for allegedly reneging on his contract set to expire in 2011.

The High Court took judicial notice of the resolution dated October 16, 2019, of the SC’s First Division in ABS-CBN Corporation v. ABC Development Corporation, et al., which affirmed the decision dated September 5, 2011, and the resolution, dated April 26, 2012, of the Court of Appeals. These declared ABS-CBN guilty of forum shopping in filing a complaint for copyright infringement before the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Makati City while seeking judicial relief through its compulsory counterclaim in the rescission and damages case before the Quezon City RTC.

DFA:...

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Once the writ has been executed, the transfer of jurisdiction can take place, he said.

Makati City Administrator Claro Certeza said this response from the Supreme Court administrator has “provided a clear path forward.”

On Monday, Taguig City Mayor Laarni Cayetano launched the annual Brigada Eskwela in Makati Science High School and visited Fort Bonifacio Elementary School and Fort Bonifacio High School. All three schools are located within the disputed territories.

addresses the transfer of management and supervision of the 14 affected public schools, not the transfer of ownership.

The mayor reiterated that these public schools are titled to Makati and were constructed using the city’s funds, underscoring the importance of upholding established property rights.

prepared to offer assistance should they request repatriation, he added.

The death toll from the devastating fire reached 99 on Tuesday, reports said. Thousands of structures and properties were destroyed in the deadliest wildfire to hit Maui in a century.

In a press conference Tuesday, Comelec chairperson George Garcia said the commission will issue new guidelines for the Philippine National Police to implement.

“In the guidelines that we will issue, we will allow the PNP to arrest if the person is caught in the act. We will authorize that now with full backing of the Comelec because it is our belief that under our Constitution warrantless arrest is allowed,” said Garcia.

The basis of the previous prohibition of arrests during the campaign period was the 1985 Omnibus Election Code, but under the 1987 Constitution, Garcia said warrantless arrest is allowed in cases of “in flagrante delicto” or being caught in the act.

He pointed out that if there is a contradiction between existing laws and the Constitution, the Constitution will be followed.

In a related development, the Comelec needs a copy of the Supreme Court decision regarding the territorial row between Makati and Taguig cities to finalize preparations for the BSKE for the two local government units.

Garcia said Comelec needs to clarify if whether Makati’s second Motion for Reconsideration with the High Court was really denied, and if there is no longer an option to file for another MR.

“Makati will continue to manage and supervise the affected schools until the necessary legal processes have been completed,” he said.

Certeza was referring to the 14 public schools located in the affected barangays in District 2: Fort Bonifacio Elementary School, Cembo Elementary School, South Cembo Elementary School, Pitogo Elementary School, East Rembo Elementary School, Rizal Elementary School, Comembo Elementary School, West Rembo Elementary School, Pembo Elementary School, Makati Science High School, Benigno

“Ninoy” S. Aquino High School, Tibagan High School, Fort Bonifacio High School, and Pitogo High School.

Villanueva further stated that “all cases currently filed and pending before the first and second level courts in

“It is evident that Taguig did not adhere to and disregarded the rule of law by not waiting for a writ of execution. Their unlawful entry in our public schools without securing the necessary legal processes clearly demonstrates a lack of respect for established procedures and the principle of jurisdiction,” Certeza said.

Certeza appealed to Taguig officials to adhere to the rule of law to avoid confusion among parents and students and unnecessary tension in barangays affected by the SC decision.

He said the city may file criminal and administrative charges against Taguig for its unlawful attempt to take possession of properties owned by Makati.

Makati City Mayor Abigail Binay said Taguig has yet to secure a writ of execution from the court of origin.

She also said Department of Education Memorandum Order 2023-735 only

probability that 2023 will rank warmest on record.”

Earlier, Mayor Binay proposed a status quo arrangement where Makati would continue its services in the affected schools. This proposal aims to alleviate worries among students and parents and avoid disruption in school operations, she said.

The Taguig City government on Tuesday appealed to Makati City officials to stop sabotaging the transition with fake news and false narratives, and instead focus on real public service.

Cayetano accused Certeza of being a liar when he claimed that in July, Taguig rejected an offer to provide free school supplies, uniforms, and shoes to students affected by a Supreme Court decision.

“It seems that Makati City Administrator Claro Certeza is spreading false information about Taguig City,” said Cayetano, adding that Certeza was not even present during the meeting where the supposed offer was made.

DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega said none of the fatalities so far has been confirmed to be Filipinos yet, but there might be Filipino-Americans among them.

“We cannot confirm if anyone is a Filipino citizen. Unfortunately, we have to expect the worst because there will be some Filipino-Americans among the casualties because 17 percent of the population of Maui are Filipino-Americans,” he said.

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

On Monday, the Philippine Consulate General in Honolulu said it was receiving a rising number of calls and emails inquiring about the status of Filipinos and Filipino-Americans missing due to the wildfires.

Jail Management and Penology, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Public Safety College, Coast Guard, and Bureau of Corrections.

Under the current system, MUPs do not contribute to their pension.

Instead, the pension benefits are drawn annually from the national budget.

MUPs are also automatically promoted one rank higher upon retirement and

The American weather agency said 2023 is already “the third hottest year” on record.”

NOAA chief scientist Sarah Kapnick, quoted by reports, said: “It is virtually certain -- over 99 percent chance -- that 2023 will rank among the five warmest years on record with a nearly 50 percent

can receive their pension after 20 years of service, with no minimum pensionable age. The monthly pension is also automatically indexed to the salary of active personnel.

He noted that the stakeholders invited to the first hearing of the ad hoc committee expressed satisfaction with the provisions of the substitute bill.

Romualdez ordered the creation of the ad hoc committee to thresh out disagreements over various proposals for pension system reforms.

It is chaired by Rep. Joey Salceda,

Meanwhile, at a public briefing, Dr. Marcelino Villafuerte II, PAGASA’s Chief of the Climate Impact Assessment and Application, Climatology and Agrometeorology Division warned that heat cramps, exhaustion, and stroke were among the effects of the ‘danger’ level heat index.

The heat index in Casiguran, Aurora reached 60 degrees on Monday, but

chairman of the House committee on ways and means. The key agreements reached during the hearing include:

* A 90 percent maximum retirement package based on the base pay of all MUP;

* The inclusion of PNP personnel who served under 20 years in the list of those eligible for a separation lump sum;

* A retirement age of 57 for all MUP;

* A guaranteed 3 percent salary increase annually for all MUP;

* Two separate pension management systems, one for the AFP and one for ci-

dropped to 45 degrees yesterday. It was 43 degrees in Tuguegarao City, Infanta in Quezon, Calapan in Oriental Mindoro, and Catbalogan in Samar, he added.

In Metro Manila, PAGASA recorded 40 degrees Celsius in Science Garden in Quezon City while Ninoy Aquino International Airport reached a heat index of 43 degrees Celsius.

“There were high temperatures that were observed the past few days, this started last week. The temperature

vilian uniformed personnel;

* A 50 percent indexation for MUP; and

* The creation of a window in the pension fund system for disadvantaged pensioners.

Among these features, the 50 percent indexation and the eligibility of PNP personnel who served less than 20 years were major departures from the draft bill prepared by the Department of Finance.

“This landmark legislation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to the men and women in uniform, who risk their lives daily to maintain peace and order. It provides a robust, sustain-

reached a danger level, particularly in Luzon. The possible effects of the danger level heat index are heat cramps, exhaustion, and stroke,” the official said.

Villafuerte noted that the reason for having high heat index is due to the coastal areas with low elevation and is estimated by the air temperature and humidity.

He said it is “partially” an effect of El Niño, since it frequently rained in mornings but was dry by midday.

able, and fair pension system that recognizes their invaluable service to our nation,” Romualdez said.

“With this reform, we’re not only prioritizing the well-being of our MUP but also ensuring the country’s economic stability,” Romualdez said.

Salceda said the members of the ad hoc committee agreed in principle on a pension reform program that is amenable to both the military and uniformed services and to economic managers, who were worried about the sustainability of the existing system.

ANTI-DENGUE FUMIGATION.

A field worker of the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) conducts antidengue fogging at the Rafael  Palma Elementary School to protect the young learners from the deadly mosquito-borne disease. Norman Cruz

Business managers seek lower tariff rate for food, agri products

By Othel V. Campos

ORGANIZED business managers are calling on the national government to create a tariff regime that supports food security for Filipinos and strengthens sustainable agri-food value chains.

The proposed that the setup should be neutral across industries and reduces incentives and opportunities for corruption and smuggling by unifying Minimum Access Volume (MAV) and nonMAV tariff rates.

Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) president Benedicta Du-Baludad echoed the business community’s sentiment for accessibility and affordability of competitively priced food through low tariffs on food products in light of the impending review and reform of the current tariff struc-

ture by the Tariff Commission (TC) and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

“The removal of existing peaks and achieving low uniform rates in a tariff structure that provides equal incentives across domestic industries will encourage more and wider agricultural processing and value-adding, help control inflation, and enhance the country’s food security. We urge the TC and NEDA to move the Philippine economy in this direction,” the MAP said in a statement.

Despite PBBM order, health workers have yet to get emergency allowances

By Gabriellea Pariño

THE Department of Health (DOH) has yet to release billions of pesos worth of Health Emergency Allowances (HEA) for health workers despite President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s directive to distribute the funds immediately.

In a press conference, Health Undersecretary Eric Tayag blamed slow and incomplete processing of documentary requirements for the delays.

“The HEAs that will be released will only be up to the period wherein the President lifted the public health emergency on COVID-19,” Tayag clarified.

According to him, the DOH has released P46.4 billion worth of funds to health workers, but have yet to distribute P15.2 billion for the HEAs due to processing delays.

“We have already talked to the union of private hospitals wherein we explained the situation. We also found out that some of them have already received at least five months worth of their HEAs,” he added.

The United Private Hospital Unions

of the Philippines (UPHUP) said 112 private hospitals have yet to receive their allowances since their latest survey, with some having only partially received the due funds.

“We posted the list of hospitals because we want to be heard by the DOH and [President Marcos] to distribute the funds without further delay. The workers are already exhausted and there are those who are truly in need of funds, especially that classes have begun and they have families to feed,” UPHUP spokesman Ronald Richie Ignacio said in an interview.

There are at least 85 private hospitals who have yet to receive their emergency funds, according to the recent survey by the UPHUP, with Region IV-A (CALABARZON) topping the list at 19 hospitals who have not receive their HEAs in full or partially.

“The health workers have been waiting to receive their allowances since 2021,” Ignacio added.

The UPHUP has expressed willingness to meet with the DOH in order to resolve the allowance controversy.

The group stressed that tariff rates on inputs should not exceed those on finished products, keeping tariffs relatively low and uniform across all goods at a maximum rate of 10 to 15 percent.

The MAP noted that the long-term and lasting solution to attain food security for Filipinos is to implement gamechanging reforms for productivity improvement, such as farm consolidation, better water management, and effective extension systems.

A valid observation by the group showed how Filipino families are burdened with higher food prices compared to consumers in other countries across ASEAN. The load is worsened by relatively lower incomes and the consumers are forced to purchase food products of low nutritional value, leading to poor nutrition, lowered human capacity, and deepening poverty.

With easing of travel rules, airlines foresee increased tourist arrivals IN BRIEF

DOT drops ad agency in scandal-ridden video

THE Department of Tourism (DOT) has suspended another contract with ad agency DDB Philippines, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco announced on Tuesday.

This, after the agency terminated its other contract with DDB for a botched tourism video that used stock footage from abroad.

During the budget briefing of DOT, OFW partylist Rep. Marissa del Mar Magsino noted that the DOT had another P124.45 million contract with DDB to provide counseling services for the promotion of Philippine islands as an award-winning destinations and tourism products which was supposed to end on Aug. 31, 2023.

Magsino also noted that there was a P12.99 million contract between DDB Philippines and the Tourism Promotion Board (TPB), a DOTattached agency, for consulting services for the conceptualization and development of meetings, incentive travel, conventions and exhibitions.

“The contract concerning the video has since been terminated,” Frasco told the House Committee on Appropriations.

DBM to submit revisions to Procurement Act

THE Department of Budget Management (DBM) will present next week to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. its proposed amendments to the Government Procurement Reform Act (GPRA) as the Senate started to scrutinize the proposed P5.768 trillion national budget for 2024.

The proposed budget for next year is higher by 9.5 percent compared to this year’s P5.268 trillion appropriation.

During the Senate finance committee briefing on the proposed 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP) with the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC), the senators quizzed Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman on the government’s plan to address underspending.

“We don’t have the bill yet, but we have the specific amendments,” Pangandaman said.

Based on the DBM data, Pangandaman said the government’s underspending was pegged at P170.5 billion for the first semester of 2023.

Macon Ramos-Araneta

Acuzar sees economic potentials of Pasig River

HOUSING Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar is tasked not only to clean up and implement the full rehabilitation of the historic Pasig River, but also to maximize its economic potentials, and address safe and decent homes for informal settlers along the waterways.

“The issuance of EO 35 is like hitting many birds with one stone. It will trigger huge positive impacts to several sectors like housing, transportation and even tourism,” he said.

The Chief Executive through EO No. 35 designated Acuzar, Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development secretary, to head the Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development (IAC-PRUD) “The rehabilitation of Pasig River could serve as a catalyst for economic opportunities along its banks from Manila to Pasig City,” Acuzar said.

While the presidential order primarily calls for the full rehabilitation of Pasig River waterways, its implementation would also secure the safety of thousands of the informal settler families living along the riverbanks, promote mixed-use development and tourism to trigger economic opportunities, he stressed. Rio N. Araja

By Darwin G. Amojelar and Rey E. Requejo

DOMESTIC airlines foresee an increase in international tourist arrival with the removal of the vaccine certificate requirement for inbound foreign travelers.

In the same breath, the Supreme Court on Tuesday said that 2023 Bar examinees are no longer required to present negative COVID-19 test results.

“We welcome this development that further eases travel to the Philippines and helps boost inbound tourist traffic. We look forward to serving more tourist and business travelers on both our international and domestic travel sectors,” Philippine Airlines (PAL) spokesperson Cielo Villaluna said.

“We will continue to work on enhancing the passenger experience through digital transformation and

FORMER BROADCASTER GETS ON WRONG SIDE OF THE LAW.

This photo provided by the National Bureau of Investigation shows former TV host Jay Sonza as a person deprived of liberty at the Quezon City Jail in Payatas following his arrest July 18 for alleged estafa and large-scale illegal recruitment. Bureau of Jail Management and Penology spokesperson Jayrex Joseph Bustinera said Sonza was remanded to their custody by the NBI last August 3.

fleet expansion,” she added.

Department of Health (DOH) Circular 2023-06 which covers all airports and seaports in the country states that “all arriving international travelers are accepted regardless of their vaccination status”.

This circular followed the Transportation Department’s earlier announcement on the scrapping of face masks for public transportation.

“Since the pandemic, the vaccine certificate has been the most essential travel requirement for inbound tourists. The lifting of this travel requirement is a major step towards making travel more seamless and will definitely encourage travelers, regardless of vaccination status, to experience the Philippines,” Steve Dailisan, AirAsia Philippines head for Communications and Public Affairs said.

“This is also very timely now that we are a few days away from welcoming the so-called “ber” months, the usual peak of travel in the Philippines,” he added.

AirAsia Philippines’ marketing analytics team noted the period spanning January 1 to August 13, 2023, posted Koreans as the leading nationality among visitors, comprising 13 percent. They were followed by the Japanese at seven percent, Chinese at six percent, Taiwanese at three percent, and a mixture of Americans and other nationalities constituting 22 percent. Noteworthy destinations during this period included Cebu, Caticlan (Boracay), Davao, Iloilo, and Tacloban.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has set a target of 4.8 million international tourist arrivals for 2023. The World’s Best Low-Cost Airline aims to

contribute to this target through its best services backed by best value deals for flights and other travel-led services on the airasia Superapp.

“Examinees are not required to present negative RT-PCR or antigen test results as a prerequisite for entry into their LTC,” the SC through the Office of the 2023 Bar chair said, in the latest Bar Bulletin No. 6-2023.

“While also not required, examinees are highly encouraged to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19,” it stressed.

Nonetheless, the SC said examinees who manifest symptoms during the security process or during the examinations will be assessed by the medical staff.

The examinees may be placed in isolated testing rooms, where they will be allowed to continue taking the test.

Former broadcaster Jay Sonza arrested for alleged large-scale illegal recruitment

FORMER broadcaster Jay Sonza has been arrested for alleged syndicated and large-scale illegal recruitment, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) confirmed on Tuesday.

NBI assistant director Glenn Ricarte revealed that Sonza was turned over to their custody after he was temporarily detained and arrested by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) last July 18, 2023.

Ricarte said Sonza was about to board a flight to Hong Kong at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 when he was interviewed by immigration officials.

Sonza was prevented from leaving the country when the BI found a pending estafa case against him.

OTS traces long queues at NAIA to increased flights, passengers

By Joel E. Zurbano

PASSENGERS at the Ninoy Aquino

International Airport (NAIA) have experienced long queues due to the recent increase in flights and passenger traffic, according to the Office for Transportation Security (OTS).

The OTS made the statement in reaction to a recent study naming NAIA as among the worst airports in Asia due to passengers forced to wait in long lines.

“Based on our security screening procedures, we aim to process each

passenger within a maximum of 1.5 minutes. However, this may vary depending on whether or not the passenger is carrying any prohibited items in their person or luggage,” said OTS spokesperson Kim Marquez. Marquez said NAIA security screening procedures are aligned with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards.

“We can say that it is the same procedures implemented by other member states around the world. The queuing at our airports is affected by the number of passengers traveling at any given

time such as in the case of NAIA,” Marquez said.

Based on the study by vacation rental management firm Casago, NAIA ranked 8th among the 10 worst airports while Singapore’s Changi International Airport, on the other hand, is considered the world’s best in giving a smooth experience to passengers.

“It is true that queuing at airports can be affected by the number of passengers traveling at any given time, as we have experienced at NAIA due to the recent increase in flights and passenger traffic,” Marquez said.

The BI eventually detained him when an active warrant for syndicated and large-scale illegal recruitment was discovered against him.

He was transferred to the NBI’s custody and later turned over to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).

Ricarte added that Sonza was already in touch with his lawyer when he was detained by the Bureau of Immigration. He was advised about his legal options, given that he could not post bail for syndicated or large scale illegal recruitment.

ANTI-OIL PRICE HIKES PROTEST. Members of the militant transport group PISTON stage a protest action against almost weekly oil price hikes, demanding repeal of the Oil Deregulation Law, among others. Manny Palmero

Gatchalian says DSWD set to complete reassessment of 4Ps program list in Sept.

DEPARTMENT of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary

Rex Gatchalian on Tuesday said that the DSWD is nearing the completion of its reassessment of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries.

In a press briefing in Malacañang, Gatchalian said that once the reassessment of the list of 4Ps beneficiaries has been completed, DSWD will start its disbursements to the newly approved beneficiaries.

DSWD’s 4Ps aimed to provide assistance to the marginalized sector by giving conditional cash grants to poor families.

Gatchalian said that the disbursement of this year’s payout has encountered delays due to the impact of COVID-19.

“We have a delay in the disbursement [of payout] this year, if we can remember, the basis of 4Ps is the “Listahan” and the last Listahan, Listahan III, was conducted during the period of 2019/202. These were the COVID

IN BRIEF

Tolentino seeks justice for abused ‘kasambahay’

SENATOR Francis Tolentino said he joins the call for justice for a 44-yearold ‘kasambahay’ who was allegedly abused by the family of her employer in Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro.

He said the Philippine Legal Justice Center (PLJC), which he founded, is closely monitoring and actively collaborating with the lead counsel of Elvie Verga, the household helper who allegedly suffered physical, emotional, and psychological tortures at the hands of her employer in the last three years.

As chairman ng Committee on Justice and Human Rights, Tolentino said he is still studying if his committee will conduct a hearing on the matter.

Vergara was reportedly subjected to relentless physical and emotional maltreatment by her employer—a married couple and their two relatives— from 2020 to 2023, which later caused visual and hearing impairments to the victim.

Macon Ramos-Araneta

DOLE: Firms must follow rules on holiday pay

THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reminded private companies of the proper payment of wages on August 21, Ninoy Aquino Day, and August 28, National Heroes Day.

Labor Secretary Bienvenido

Laguesma issued Labor Advisory No. 17, Series of 2023 on August 10 which stipulates the proper computation of workers’ wages for the declared special (non-working) day on August 21 and regular holiday on August 28.

The advisory prescribes the following pay rules for the special (non-working) days.

For employees who did not report for work, the “no work, no pay” principle shall apply unless there is a favorable company policy, practice, or collective bargaining agreement (CBA) granting payment on a special day.

Vito Barcelo

44K vehicles involved in accidents in Jan-July

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reported that 44,493 vehicles were involved in accidents in Metro Manila from January to July of this year. Of the number, 32,800 incidents resulted in damage to property, 168 were fatal, and 11,525 resulted in injuries.

Latest reports from the MMDA Traffic Engineering Center revealed that four-wheelers were the most commonly involved vehicles in accidents, comprising about 45,000 of the total.

The agency also cited that there was also an increase in accidents in the last quarter of 2022, coinciding with the imposition of the Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) on the MMDA’s No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP).

The monitored traffic violations since the suspension of NCAP have also increased. Joel E. Zurbano

years ng lockdown,” Gatchalian said. During the pandemic, around 700,000 families were initially removed from the list due to reported improved conditions due to improved conditions but struggled once the lockdown affected the country’s economy.

Then, an additional 700,000 families were also left unassessed due to strict protocols implemented during the lockdown, which would sum up to 1.4 million families out of the 4.4 million households included in the program.

Due to these numbers, Gatchalian said that DSWD has decided to reassess the list of 4Ps beneficiaries to properly pick those who are in need.

“The decision of the department is to reassess. So, the reassessment is still ongoing and it would be completed by September to let choose the right beneficiaries for 4Ps,” he said.

The DSWD has received P151 billion for 2023 as part of its social protection programs, which includes the 4Ps cash assistance making up the biggest chunk of its fund. Charles Dantes

Marcos orders catch up spending to boost economy post-pandemic

By Charles Dantes

THE Marcos administration is eyeing to boost the country’s workforce as the Philippines readies to fully open its economy post-COVID pandemic, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said.

During a public briefing, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has instructed government agencies to speed up their respective programs during a sectoral meeting in Malacañang.

Laguesma also said the President has ordered government agencies to

CANONICAL CORONATION.

improve spending on programs that are related to social protection. He said aside from preparing the local workforce for opening the economy, the order also seeks to address the expected influx of foreign investors. “We received an order from the President that we have the funds, especially for social protection

programs by the administration, we need to deliver to the intended beneficiaries,” Laguesma said, adding that “Our catch-up is the collaboration and partnership, not just with the local government units, but also with our legislators and most importantly, with the private sector.”

Laguesma said that the DOLE has its catch-up plan in place to efficiently utilize its funds in extending its social protection programs.

Moreover, he clarified that the discussed budget utilization data was during the first quarter of the year, and in the second quarter, the government agencies had shown better results.

“This second quarter, we are able

to catch up because we were given information on our utilization rate, we were able to talk with our regional directors,” the official said.

Laguesma bared that the President emphasized the need to prepare employability of Filipino youth in the future, as the Philippines moves on the pandemic.

The President led the sectoral meeting in Malacañang to address underspending and to determine the steps that will improve agency budget utilization.

Government agencies presented during the meeting their respective “catch-up plans” to hasten the delivery of social services.

Romualdez tells House ‘SMART’ interns: Welcome to the heart of democracy

By Maricel V. Cruz

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Tuesday welcomed incoming college interns who are part of the Strategic Mentoring and Research Training (SMART) Internship Program of the House of Representatives.

Romualdez describes the internship program as “a visionary project that aims to groom the next generation of leaders.”

Romualdez was the guest speaker at the launch of the internship program held at the Women Legislators’ Lounge, which was also attended by Senior Deputy Majority Leader and Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Alexander Marcos, Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre, Isabela Rep. Faustino Michael Carlos Dy III, Secretary General Reginald S. Velasco, UP Chancellor Carlo Vistan, and

deans and officials of partner higher education institutions.

“Our dear SMART interns, you are not just entering an institution; you’re stepping into the heart of our democracy. This is not merely an observational exercise but an avenue to understand the intricate machinery that drives our legislative body,” Romualdez told 32 college interns from UP, Lyceum, Trinity College, and UST.

The Speaker said Marcos was a former intern when he was the House Majority Leader during the previous 18th Congress.

Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre also shared during the event that he started as ordinary congressional staff before being elected congressman this 19th Congress.

The participants in the internship program will be assigned to do immersion work within the secretariat of the lower chamber.

After teen killing, lawmakers back measure on body cameras for cops

DEPUTY Speaker and Las Pinas Rep. Camille Villar on Tuesday called for the passage of a measure institutionalizing the use of wearable body cameras in legitimate law enforcement operations.

Villar made the statement in light of the recent killing of a Navotas teenager which led to public outrage.

Villar, author of House Bill 8352 which seeks to mandate the use of body cameras and police dashcams, said the case of 17-year-old Jemboy Baltazar, who was shot and killed by police in what they con-

sidered as a mistaken identity, is a “huge setback” in delivering greater transparency in police operations.

On August 2, Baltazar and his friend were preparing their boat to go fishing when a cop ordered them to get off. Baltazar’s friend, who survived unscathed, said they tried to surrender but the police kept shooting, prompting the former to jump into the river.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has admitted “lapses” in the Navotas operation and said the officers directly involved had either failed to turn on their body cams or that the

devices ran out of battery. Under Villar’s proposal, all footage taken using a body cam shall be retained for one year and for another three years if the video captures an “interaction or event involving any use of force or an encounter about which a complaint has been registered by a subject of the footage.”

The national police force had said they had deployed body cams in 2021, but admitted many police officers were not properly observing protocols and use of such devices. Maricel V. Cruz and Macon Ramos-Araneta

SC upholds conviction of cop who pointed gun at minor

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Supreme Court (SC) has upheld with modification a decision that found a police officer guilty of pointing a gun at a 15-year-old in 2014.

In an en banc decision, the SC affirmed the 2017 ruling of the Court of Appeals that found Marvin San Juan guilty of violating Section 10(a) in relation to Section 3(b)(1) of Republic Act 7610, or the Spe-

cial Protection of Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act. A regional trial court sentenced San Juan to suffer imprisonment of four years, nine months, and 11 days up to seven years and four months in prison.

He was also ordered to pay the child P20,000 for moral damages, P20,000 as exemplary damages, plus interest at the rate of 6% per annum on the civil liability imposed, reckoned from the finality

of the decision until full payment.

During the trial, an 11-year-old boy testified that he was with his friends, including the victim and another boy, at a basketball court when San Juan arrived and insulted the victim on March 26, 2014.

The witness said the victim walked away, causing San Juan to pull out his gun and point it at the back of his friend. The victim testified that San Juan threatened him

with a stone after he laughed at him. In his defense, San Juan argued that he was on his way home when he saw the victim and his friends playing at a basketball court. San Juan said he reminded them that they were not allowed to play during the weekdays. He said that instead of obeying, the children laughed at him. According to him, he felt insulted and chased them with a stone. However, he denied pointing a gun at the victim.

Papal Nuncio to the Philippines John Brown D.D. and Bohol Bishop Alberto Yu lead the  Ponti cal High Mass and the canonical coronation of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción at the Parish and Diocesan Shrine of the Assumption of Our Lady in Dauis, Bohol on Tuesday. Residents of Dauis believed that the  Nuestra Señora de la Asunción is miraculous. Danny Pata

TURNOVER. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez turns over to Tacloban Mayor Alfred Romualdez—who is also chairman of the Eastern Visayas Regional Peace and Order Council—several pieces of communication equipment during a meeting at the House of Representatives on Tuesday. With them are Department of the Interior and Local Government Regional Director Arnel Agabe (2nd from left) and Maj. Gen. Camilo Ligayo, commander of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division (8ID). Roy Pelovello

Filipino brains found in Smithsonian’s ‘Racial Brain Collection’

THE brains of 27 Filipinos, taken without consent from the families of the deceased in the early 20th century for racial studies, have been found by a team of intrepid reporters as recorded among the holdings of the Smithsonian Institution.

Reporters of the Washington Post spent a year examining the human remains collection as well as thousands of documents at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC, administered by the Smithsonian.

The museum is the most-visited within the Smithsonian, and has one of the world’s largest collections of body parts, at least 30,700 of them, including bones, teeth, skulls, and mummies.

In an ongoing exclusive series, the first article of which was published Aug. 14 and shared with me by the WP, it was reported that the museum houses 255 brains, taken upon death from Black and Indigenous people, among them Filipinos “exhibited” at the 1904 Louisiana Purchase Exposition (St. Louis World’s Fair).

History buffs will recall that at the time, the U.S. was less than 10 years into its occupation of the Philippines, after buying the archipelago for $20 million from Spain. The Fair showcased some 1,200 “primitive” Filipinos from at least 10 ethnic groups in a 47-acre artificial village, an anthropological exhibit where White folks gawked at the Filipinos as if the latter were animals in a zoo.

Among the people there were Igorots, considered by anthropologist Albert Jenks as the most “uncivilized” tribe in the Philippines.

Eating dog, a ceremonial activity for Igorots, was made a daily spectacle at the Fair to emphasize how “savage” Filipino customs were.

The exhibit was one of the ways the U.S. government sought to justify the occupation of the Philippines under the New Manifest Destiny, which pushed for the expansion of territory to project American dominance and culture and White superiority.

Using the Philippine village at the Fair as evidence of the “backwardness” of “their little brown brothers,” the U.S. whitewashed its colonization activities and led its citizens to believe that its interference in Philippine affairs was its responsibility and duty.

Going back to the brains, the Washington Post found that their acquisition for the Smithsonian’s ‘racial collection’ was driven by one man, Ales Hrdlicka.

An anthropologist and curator who led the Smithsonian’s physical anthropology division for over 40 years, he believed that White people were superior and collected body parts in an attempt to prove his racist theories.

However, the Post learned that while Hrdlicka offered the brains to other researchers for their use, they found no evidence that he did any substantive research himself on the brains he collected.

The summer of the Fair, Hrdlicka traveled to St. Louis, “hoping to take brains from the Filipinos who died” there. He returned to D. C. with the brain of

KHARKIV, Ukraine—Scooping up shards of metal near her toddler’s trampoline, Tatiana Filipova recalled how Russian drones pummeled her neighborhood in northeastern Ukraine after their return from a war-imposed exile in the center of the country.

Filipova’s family was among hundreds of thousands of people who fled the border region of Kharkiv as it was systematically shelled early in Russia’s invasion, leaving smashed-up residential areas eerily empty.

Residents poured back after Moscow’s forces were driven out last September, despite the threat of Russian strikes and a new push to recapture the frontline hub of Kupiansk.

“My life was paused,” Filipova told AFP in her garden patio, recalling the day she fled the encroaching war in March last year.

The 35-year-old marketing executive fled to the relative safety of central Ukraine with her three-year-old daughter Valery, three cats and as many belongings that could fit in her car. Her husband, Vladyslav, refused to leave his ailing grandfather.

After months in limbo, Filipova returned when the Russians retreated, but the illusion of safety was shattered when their neighborhood was hit in a midnight attack earlier this month.

The green transition

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has underlined the important role of the youth in accelerating the green transition, which aims to turn communities into patches of green edible landscapes.

These include technical knowledge and skills that enable the effective use of green technologies and processes in occupational settings, as well as transversal skills that draw on a range of knowledge, values and attitudes to facilitate environmentally sustainable decisions in work and in life.

a Bontoc man and the cerebellum of a person from Suyoc. Some months later, doctors at the Fair sent him the brains of a Tagalog person and a Filipino Muslim.

The Post interviewed FilipinoAmerican activist and artist Janna Añonuevo Langholz, who believes that the Suyoc cerebellum is that of Maura, a Kankanaey Igorot who died of pneumonia before the Fair began. She was the only person from the Suyoc group whose death was reported in the press.

The brains of the 23 other Filipinos were taken from various sources around the Philippines, including some patients at the Philippine Medical School (now the University of the Philippines-Manila College of Medicine).

The Post article goes on to discuss ethical ways of dealing with the brains and other collected body parts, including the repatriation of the remains.

It also shares more interesting information, including how the Philippine Embassy in D.C. responded when contacted by the Smithsonian after the Post began reporting.

“Revealing the Smithsonian’s ‘Racial Brain Collection,’” written by Nicole Dungca and Claire Healy, is a bombshell debut for the series and is a must-read.

The succeeding articles are to be anticipated for more details on the brain collection, which has never been publicly displayed.

It was only when the Post started investigating that anyone realized how large the collection is, and how touching and poignant the stories behind some of the remains.

All this information provokes thought about the ethics of acquiring, keeping, and maintaining artifacts in museums.

The issue of museums holding human body parts without consent poses a moral dilemma, as it perpetuates a history of exploitation and disregards the dignity and rights of the deceased and their descendants.

These remains often originate from marginalized communities (as the Post has shown in this instance) and have been subjected to colonial exploitation and scientific curiosity.

Museums, by holding onto these artifacts, perpetuate a legacy of cultural theft and objectification.

In particular, the Smithsonian’s brain collection is particularly repugnant as the vast majority of the remains were taken without consent in an attempt to prove a reprehensible and immoral concept –White supremacy.

Returning these ill-gotten remains to their rightful descendants or cultural communities is an act of acknowledging the past wrongs and granting closure to grieving families and communities. Restitution and repatriation are vital steps toward rectifying historical injustices and fostering a more equitable future.

By returning human remains to their cultural communities, museums contribute to healing and reconciliation.

This process embodies the principles of respect, empathy, and recognition of shared humanity—which should be the purpose of museums in the first place.

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

The President, during the International Youth Day this month, said the young population, who serve as “both the trailblazer of the modern world and hope of the future,” has a crucial role in attaining a more sustainable economy.

The chief executive was on track when he said the youth’s role in undertaking ecological initiatives must be “aggressively” pushed to ensure the full realization of everyone’s desire to have a “healthier home we all deserve.”

“May our love for the youth and Mother Earth be the guidepost as we commit to our collective desire to embark on a green transition,” he said.

“Together, let us embrace this social contract and move towards a future that efficiently, inclusively, and sustainably works for all.”

The President admits drawing inspiration from “the encouraging visions of young Filipinos who exude eagerness to evoke transformational movements that positively impact the current and coming generations.”

This year’s annual observance of International Youth Day carries the theme “Green Skills for Youth: Towards Sustainable World.”

Earlier on. the United Nations said the youth’s ‘green skills’ are essential to a successful transition to the green economy

This means the shift towards an environmentally sustainable and climatefriendly world is critical not only for responding to the global climate crisis but also for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Experts say a successful transition towards a greener world will depend on the development of green skills in the population: knowledge, abilities, values and attitudes needed to live in, develop and support a sustainable and resource-efficient society.

Goma goes after the gold

“DISCRETION is the better part of valor,” a quote from William Shakespeare’s history play Henry IV, really means it’s important to be cautious before rushing into doing something. Wise advice that everyone, including those in public office, should bear in mind.

We’re reminded of this after actor/athleteturned-politician Richard “Goma” Gomez apparently wanted to run to the ground the largest agricultural facility in the Visayas and Mindanao regions with a terse statement, “Walang kaibigan, trabaho lamang.”

This was obviously intended to please the peanut gallery, but not the more than 500 executives and rank-and-file employees of the DBSN Farm Agriventures Inc. owned by the family of Mayor Ramon Oñate of Palompon, Leyte.

Gomez came out with guns blazing against the Oñate couple and DBSN for alleged violations of the country’s land use and environmental laws.

He first initiated an inquiry in the House of Representatives.

Then, he asked the state-run Land Bank of the Philippines to cancel DBSN’s loan and file a case against the borrower for misuse of the funds, ignoring the fact that LandBank is a very reputable and financing institution that would not lend money without conducting due diligence.

If LBP trusted the Oñates with a sizable amount of cash, it must have gone through the loan application with a fine-toothed comb and decided that the applicant was worth every peso of the credit line.

And did Gomez imply that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources was grossly remiss in discharging its duties by filing complaints against DBSN?

But more importantly, did Gomez even think that his actions would suddenly leave over 500 DBSN workers jobless if DBSN is padlocked?

If he manages to put the DBSN and its owners out of business, that would certainly mean economic dislocation of the workers and their respective families.

Executives of the Albuera, Leyte-based DBSN insist that they have maintained good housekeeping and best business practices as the core values of their company which grew

steadily over the years from a modest beginning in 2016. The agri firm emphasizes its operations are geared towards “protecting and preserving the ecosystem and returning favors to your host communities to make a difference in the lives of the general public and the stakeholders without losing sight of your corporation’s mission and vision.”

If LBP trusted the Oñates with a sizable amount of cash, it must have gone through the loan application with a fine-toothed comb and decided that the applicant was worth every peso of the credit line

DBSN is a poultry processing plant that counts as its top client the giant San Miguel Foods Inc. bearing the Magnolia Chicken brand.

It has gained the reputation of being one of the most modern and the biggest automated poultry processing plants south of the Luzon mainland, with an output capacity of about 60,000 dressed chicken daily.

At present, it employs mostly local villagers.

DBSN is also accredited by the National Meat Inspection Service for “Good Manufacturing Practices” and was granted AAA rating by the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) as an exclusive poultry dressing facility in the region.

DBSN likewise passed with flying colors a performance assessment by an independent audit firm led by Engr. Aldwin Camance.

Double horror: Ukrainian returnees come back to war

The approaching Iranian-made drones, which sounded like a sputtering “old motorcycle,” prompted the family to rush away from the windows, while Vladyslav found himself shielding his child with his body.

One drone slammed into a technical college nearby, shaking their house and leaving cracks in the walls. Another crashed nearby, leaving their fence pocked by shrapnel. Their backyard, festooned with flowers and Valery’s toys, was still littered with pieces of mangled debris.

“When you live in Kharkiv you can get hit any time,” Filipova said. Tears Her experience underscores how those displaced by the war and later returned to Kharkiv are being exposed once again to bombing raids that have increased since Ukraine launched its counteroffensive hundreds of miles away.

Authorities last week announced mandatory evacuations of the frontline Kupiansk district, where growing hostilities have raised the spectre of a second Russian occupation.

Victoria Revenko, 38, said her two children, 11 and 9, blamed her for the loss of their father, who volunteered to fight after returning to Kharkiv from the capital Kyiv, their refuge from the early days of war.

“My son says: ‘If we had stayed in Kyiv, this would never have happened”,” Revenko said. Refusing to come to terms with their father’s recent killing on the eastern Lugansk frontline, the children still send text messages to his phone hoping for a response. Sobbing during the interview with AFP in a

park, Revenko said she holds back the tears at home to avoid further upsetting her children.

Fatalism

About 1.2 million people now live in Kharkiv city from a low of around 300,000 after the war erupted, mayor Igor Terekhov told AFP, citing official estimates. That is close to the pre-war population of about 1.5 million.

Some residents instead measure the influx in terms of ballooning traffic jams.

Ukraine’s second biggest city, located around 30 kilometers from the Russian border, was never occupied but it is filled with bomb-scarred monuments to a savage war -- museums scarred by shrapnel, universities without roofs and streets with gaping craters.

Returnees found a city with few job opportunities surrounded by settlements where mines and unexploded ordnance left behind by the Russians make life dangerous even without the fresh attacks. The repopulation illustrates the “fatalistic” attitude of people who refuse to believe the war will last for long or struggle to blend into other places and yearn for home despite the dangers, Kharkivbased political analyst Nataliya Zubar told AFP. ‘War and death’

A running joke is that Kharkiv natives can be

Due to their interdisciplinary nature, the essence of green skills is sometimes expressed, partly if not wholly, through other associated terms like “skills for the future” and “skills for green jobs.”

While green skills are relevant for people of all ages, they have heightened importance for younger people, who can contribute to the green transition for a longer period.

Four key climate change indicators –greenhouse gas concentrations, sea level rise, ocean heat and ocean acidification – set new records in 2021.

This is yet another bold sign human activities are causing planetary-scale changes on land, in the ocean, and in the atmosphere, with dramatic and long-lasting ramifications.

Earlier on. the United Nations said the youth’s “green skills” are essential to a successful transition to the green economy.

The UN defines “green skills” as “knowledge, abilities, values, and attitudes needed to live in, develop and support a sustainable and resource-efficient society.”

According to data released by the International Labor Organization, a green transition could yield 8.4 million jobs for young people by 2040.

“The Plant (DBSN) was compliant with all the required permits for its operations. It has an ECC (Environmental Compliance Certificate) which was amended with the operations increased in production. It has a discharge permit and a permit to operate air pollution devices (for its standby generator). It has a hazardous waste (facility) for its used oil and used oil containers,” the audit report stated.

DBSN officials point out their main objective is to be recognized as a “world-class and dynamic company that is most admired for its people, products, purpose and performance.”

They also said the firm seeks to “drive the quality and safety of their products and services exceeding the needs and expectations of our (clientele) through a management system with competent personnel.”

Mayor Oñate has dared Rep. Gomez to present his case in the proper forum—the courts of law—and not in the bar of public opinion. He wants court hearings to “clear the air once and for all the malicious and baseless accusations being hurled against me over the family-owned poultry dressing plant.”

“The courts are the right forum for both accused and accuser to face each other instead of in the bar of public opinion where the truth can be easily distorted and the untruth touted to the maximum to serve vested interest,” Oñate stressed.

“There must be a deeper motive for Congressman Gomez to sue us other than our alleged liabilities as he had raised in a legislative hearing and through press releases to the media, but we shall leave it at that.

“What is at stake here is my reputation and integrity both as an entrepreneur and public servant, as well as the viability of a multimillion-peso business venture and the job security of our more than 500 employees,” the mayor said. En garde, Mayor Oñate seems to be saying to the ex-fencer.

But perhaps the latter should brush up on Shakespeare instead?

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

easily distinguished in a crowd of Ukrainians because they are often the least responsive when air raid sirens wail.

Many see no point in hiding as being so near the border means missiles often land before the warning sounds.

Alina Ostrykova, an NGO worker who returned to Kharkiv this summer with her toddler despite having the means to leave the country, echoed the sentiment by pointing to a woman in heels outside a trendy bar.

“She knows it won’t be easy to run to a shelter in heels,” Ostrykova, 31, told AFP. “What option do people have? Just keep running?”

In a way, Ostrykova added, it is the fatalism of the people who have returned or refused to leave that saved Ukraine from collapsing after the invasion.

A similar sentiment reigns in Filipova’s home, recently renovated at great expense despite the risks of war.

The family plans to stay put after the recent strikes and, for now, are happy for their child to mistake the explosions for thunder.

“I don’t think a three-year-old can grasp the concept of war and death,” Filipova said. “It’s better she thinks it’s thunder.” AFP

A running joke is that Kharkiv natives can be easily distinguished in a crowd of Ukrainians because they are often the least responsive when air raid sirens wail

By returning human remains to their cultural communities, museums contribute to healing and reconciliation

Stocks rise on bargain hunting; peso slips

PSEi August

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PHILIPPINE stocks slightly rose Tuesday on last-minute bargain hunting to end three straight days of decline, but the peso extended its losses on crude price concerns.

The composite Philippine Stock Exchange index inched up by 6.72 points, or 0.11 percent, to close at 6,335.91, while the broader all-shares index rose 2.98 points to settle at 3,400.87.

“The market was marginally higher amidst cautious bargain hunting after China announced a surprise cut to a key policy rate in an attempt to boost its flagging economy,” China Bank Capital managing director

Juan Paolo Colet said. Colet said, however, the index remained shaky as investors were concerned about the disappointing macroeconomic data from China and the rising US yields. The peso finished lower at 56.84 against the US dollar Tuesday, compared to 56.78 Monday as investors raised concern over rising crude prices that could jack up imports again.

Meanwhile, Asian markets were mixed as a US tech rally buoyed sentiment while a batch of disappointing data from China stoked concerns over the state of the world’s second-largest economy.

Gains by large tech companies including Amazon, Google parent Alphabet and Meta Platforms lifted the Nasdaq by more than one percent at the close Monday. The sentiment initially carried through to Asia with Tokyo climbing 0.6 percent, boosted by a surge in tech firms and data showing the Japanese economy grew

1.5 percent in the quarter to June thanks to robust exports on the back of a weaker yen.

Sydney, Taipei and Kuala Lumpur were also in the green but other markets gave up early gains, with Singapore, Bangkok and Wellington lower while Jakarta was flat.

Seoul and Mumbai were closed for holidays.

Hong Kong closed down 1.0 percent and Shanghai was off 0.1 percent as a fresh batch of weak figures from Beijing failed to reassure investor concerns about the stuttering Chinese economy.

European markets fell in early trade, with London down 1.1 percent as Britain reported an increase in unemployment while Frankfurt was off 0.7 percent and Paris was 0.8 percent lower.

Chinese data released Tuesday showed slowing growth in July retail sales while industrial production fell short of analyst expectations. With AFP

Japan’s economy grew 1.5% in Q2, beats expectations

TOKYO, Japan—Quarterly growth data for Japan smashed expectations on Tuesday as car exports rebounded and tourists flooded back, but economists cautioned that it may not last.

The world’s third-largest economy expanded 1.5 percent quarter-onquarter in the three months to June, preliminary government data showed, the fastest rate since the fourth quarter of 2020.

This was almost double the average economist forecast of 0.8 percent, according to Bloomberg News, and followed revised growth of 0.9 percent in the previous quarter.

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China logs weaker than expected July retail sales growth

BEIJING—China on Tuesday released weaker than expected economic data, with slowing retail sales growth pointing to shaky consumer confidence in the world’s second-largest economy.

A slew of disappointing figures in recent months has reflected a slump as China’s post-Covid rebound fades.

Retail sales, a key gauge of consumption, grew 2.5 percent yearon-year in July, the National Bureau of Statistics said on Tuesday, down from 3.1 percent in June and falling short of analyst expectations.

Chinese leaders have sought to boost domestic consumption in recent weeks, with the State Council last month releasing a 20-point plan to encourage citizens to spend more in sectors including vehicles, tourism and home appliances.

Officials cut the medium-term lending facility (MLF) rate—the interest for one-year loans to financial institutions—from 2.65 percent to 2.5 percent.

A lower MLF rate reduces commercial banks’ financing costs, in turn encouraging them to lend more and potentially boosting domestic consumption.

The country’s top leaders, known as the Politburo, have warned that the economy faces “new difficulties and challenges” as well as “hidden dangers in key areas”.

Overall, unemployment rose to 5.3 percent in July compared to 5.2 percent in June, the NBS said, without giving a specific figure for youth unemployment, which hit a record high in June.

The NBS said industrial production grew 3.7 percent in July from a year ago, down from 4.4 percent in June.

The recent data suggests that China may struggle to achieve a five percent growth target set for the year.

The world’s second-largest economy only grew 0.8 percent between the first and second quarters of 2023, according to official figures.

Many economists are now calling for a vast recovery plan to boost activity. AFP

UBS

to pay

$1.4b

amid fraud charges on subprime loans

NEW YORK, United States—UBS will pay $1.4 billion to settle US charges that it defrauded investors in the sale of mortgage-backed securities, resolving the last big case stemming from the 2008 financial crisis, the Justice Department announced Monday.

The department agreed to dismiss a civil complaint against UBS in exchange for the fine, which brings the total federal penalties to $36 billion in settlements from nearly 20 financial institutions, a Department of Justice (DOJ) press release said.

In its civil case launched in 2018, the DOJ had argued that UBS knowingly made false and misleading statements in connection with the sale of 40 residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS) issued in 2006 and 2007.

The DOJ had alleged that contrary to UBS representations, the giant Swiss bank “knew that significant numbers of the loans backing the RMBS did not comply with loan underwriting

guidelines that were designed to assess borrowers’ ability to repay.”

The DOJ’s original complaint quoted a UBS mortgage official as referring to a pool of loans as “a bag of sh[*]t” and another employee who called a group of loans “quite possibly better than little beside leprosy spores.”

Ultimately the 40 RMBS “sustained substantial losses,” the DOJ said.

“With this resolution, UBS will pay for its conduct related to its underwriting and issuance of residential mortgage-backed securities,” said Breon Peace, US Attorney for the Eastern District of New York.

“The substantial civil penalty in this case serves as a warning to other players in the financial markets who seek to unlawfully profit through fraud that we will hold them accountable no matter how long it takes,” he added.

UBS characterized the case as a “legacy matter,” adding in a statement that the funds have been provisioned for in earlier periods.

Working group

At the direction of former president Barack Obama, then Attorney General Eric Holder established the RMBS working group in January 2012, along with senior officials at other Washington agencies and then New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman.

The goals were: “to hold accountable any institutions that violated the law; to compensate victims and help provide relief for homeowners struggling from the collapse of the housing market, caused in part by this wrongdoing; and to help Americans finally turn the page on this destructive period in our nation’s history,” according to a DOJ press release.

The biggest agreements were Bank of America’s $16.7 billion settlement announced in August 2014 that included $7 billion in relief to homeowners and communities and JPMorgan Chase’s $13 billion settlement in November 2019 that included $4 billion in such relief. AFP

On an annualized basis, growth was 6.0 percent, more than double the market expectation of 2.9 percent, and giving Japan three-straight quarters of growth.

“Japan’s exports have recovered as the supplies crisis eased for the auto sector while the yen’s depreciation provided support,” Ryutaro Kono, chief economist at BNP Paribas, wrote in a note issued before the data.

Hiroyuki Ueno, at SuMi TRUST, also said pent-up demand from the pandemic and an increase in capital investment were boosting the economy.

“The hospitality sector is expected to remain a driver of economic growth due to the increase in inbound tourism, as the pandemic is now in the rear view mirror,” Ueno wrote ahead of the release.

“Although the number of inbound visitors to Japan has not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels, the per capita consumption of tourists during their stay in Japan has increased, partly due to the weak yen,” he wrote.

Domestic doldrums

The chief economist of the International Monetary Fund said last month that Japan was “one of the few advanced economies that is doing better in 2023 than in 2022.”

The Bank of Japan forecasts growth of 1.3 percent in the current fiscal year, which runs until March 31. AFP

India’s jasmine flower penetrates global perfume industry

MADURAI, India—Heady scents fill the air as skilled pickers in India pluck white jasmine before the still fresh buds are rushed for processing into a valuable ingredient for global perfumes.

Jasmine only issues its powerful scent when it blooms at night, and pickers must select only the ones yet to open.

“We know which one to pick,” said Malarkodi, who gave only one name, as she snapped her fingers carefully to pluck the buds, tucking into her hair a few flowers that had already bloomed.

“There is no use of these... but I like the smell,” she said.

Jasmine’s fragrant flowers have been used for millennia in India to honour the gods, and the scent is a key part of world-famous perfumes.

In the ancient city of Madurai in southern India, jasmine is omnipresent—attracting buyers from some of the world’s most recognisable perfumes, including

J’adore by Dior and Mon Guerlain by Guerlain.

“It is one of the most expensive oils in the world,” said Raja Palaniswamy, a director of Jasmine Concrete, which squeezes vast quantities of jasmine to create a few precious drops of delicious-smelling essence.

The women picking the buds earn around $1.50 a day per day for about four to five kilograms—with each kilogram made up of around 4,000 buds.

Once picked, the jasmine is rushed to market, selling for anything between 200 and 2,000 rupees ($2.40-$24) a kilogram on special days.

‘Expression of love’

The jasmine of Madurai, an Asian variety with the scientific name Jasminum sambac, was given a “geographical indication” tag from the World Intellectual Property Organization in 2013, which noted its

“deep fragrance”. “It is lush, it is rich, it is vibrant,” said Thierry Wasser, perfumer and “nose” at French beauty house Guerlain, speaking to AFP while visiting the jasmine operators.

The jasmine in Madurai has a “smoothness... and something floral which is immutable,” Wasser added. Wasser sources the jasmine oil he uses from Palaniswamy’s company. AFP

INTELLIGENT BOARD. Workers produce a digital intelligent teaching board at a factory in Lianyungang in China’s eastern Jiangsu province on August 15, 2023. AFP

BUSINESS

San Miguel, MPTC team up on expressways

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE country’s two largest toll road operators teamed up to build two expressways in Cavite and Batangas provinces.

Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. said Tuesday it signed memorandum of agreement with San Miguel Corp. to jointly undertake the construction, operation and maintenance of the 87.96-kilometer Cavite-Batangas Expressway and Nasugbu-Bauan Expressway worth a combined P72 billion.

This will encompass two vital expressways—the 27.06-kilometer CBEX that will establish a crucial link connect-

IN BRIEF

Teiheyo Cement investing

P3.9b

in Batangas terminal

JAPANESE cement manufacturer Taiheiyo Cement Corp. is investing P3.9 billion to put up a new cement distribution terminal in Batangas province through local subsidiary Taiheiyo Cement Philippines Inc., the Board of Investments said.

Special trade representative Dita AngaraMathay, commercial counselor of the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Tokyo, said Taiheiyo Cement “has a good track record in keeping their avowed commitment to pour resources, capital, advanced technologies and materials that support the infrastructure development programs of the country.”

“The company’s latest announcement materializes their plans to expand to Luzon from their long-time base in the Visayan region,” she said.

The new terminal will store and supply 700,000 metric tons of cement annually to Luzon. The local subsidiary is also poised to upgrade its main facility in San Fernando, Cebu through a kiln renewal plant designed to increase production capacity to 3 million MT yearly, while reducing CO2 emissions from energy use by 10 percent. Othel V. Campos

AirAsia PH gears up for holiday season

AIRASIA Philippines is gearing up for the holiday season and expects a surge in air passenger traffic after the foreign traveler vaccine certificate requirement was lifted.

The Department of Health Circular 2023-06 applies to all airports and seaports in the country and states that all arriving international travelers will be accepted regardless of their vaccination status. The circular took effect on Aug. 12, 2023, and follows the Transportation Department’s earlier announcement of the scrapping of face masks for public transportation.

AirAsia spokesperson Steve Dailisan said the latest development is timely with the upcoming “Ber” months (referring to September, October, November and December), which are usually the busiest time for airlines and peak season for travel in the country.

He said the lifting of the vaccine certificate travel requirement is a significant step towards making travel more seamless and will encourage travelers, regardless of their vaccination status, to experience the Philippines.

The Department of Tourism aims to achieve 4.8 million international tourist arrivals this year, and AirAsia is committed to helping achieve this target by providing exceptional services and value deals for flights and other travel-related services through its Airasia Superapp. Joel E. Zurbano

AllDay Supermarket

books P4.9-b revenues

ALLDAY Supermarket, the country’s leading mid-premium supermarket chain, said revenues grew 6.6 percent in the first half of 2023 to P4.90 billion from a year ago.

The chain also reported a significant increase in net income after tax of P172 million from P12 million.

“We are pleased with AllDay’s steady business results for the first half of 2023,” said AllDay chairman Manuel Villar Jr.

“With the return of customers to in-person retail or revenge retail giving rise to many opportunities, our supermarket concept continues to capitalize on a market that is getting a lot more comfortable with spending time shopping in-store again,” he said.

AllDay Supermarket president and chief executive Frances Rosalie Coloma cited the supermarket chain’s operational efficiencies as a key driver in sustaining AllDay’s performance at the halfway mark of 2023.

“Our sustained momentum from our first quarter performance in 2023 is proof of our capability to sustain exceptional results. We continue to rely on continuous improvement of AllDay operations, leaving no stone unturned,” he said.

ing CALAX Silang (Aguinaldo) Interchange to Nasugbu and the 60.90-kilometer NBEX that will provide seamless connectivity from Nasugbu to Bauan.

The groundbreaking is scheduled for 2024, and CBEX and NBEX are expected to be completed by 2027.

“Our shared commitment to nationbuilding has led us to this historic collaboration. Together, we aim to deliver world-class road networks that will

serve as arteries of progress, growth and development for our country and the Filipino people,” San Miguel president Ramon Ang said.

“This collaboration stands as a testament to what we can achieve when we are united in purpose,” he said.

MPTC chairman Manuel Pangilinan said together with SMC, the company envisaged a future where CBEX and NBEX could help pave the way for connectivity and economic growth in the CALABARZON region.

“We look forward to leveraging on our respective strengths for the realization of this vital infrastructure project,” he said.

The MOA signing underscores the commitment of both toll road compa-

nies to deliver world-class expressways that will serve the needs of millions of motorists and commuters in CALABARZON.

MPTC and SMC will work closely with the government, local communities and stakeholders to ensure a sustainable and responsible development that aligns with the country’s infrastructure goals.

The route will traverse the towns of Silang, Amadeo, Tagaytay, Indang, Mendez and Alfonso in Cavite before crossing to Nasugbu and finally reaching Bauan.

MPTC in 2018 presented a proposal for the 50.4-kilometer Cavite-TagaytayBatangas Expressway project to the Department of Public Works and Highways and was granted the original pro-

MPTC-SMC DEAL.

San Miguel Corp. chairman Ramon Ang (left) and Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. chairman Manuel Pangilinan seal a P72billion deal to construct the 87.96-kilometer Cavite-Batangas Expressway and Nasugbu-Bauan Expressway.

Car sales rose 33% in July, extended growth to 17 months

By Othel V. Campos

VEHICLE sales grew 33.3 percent in July 2023 to 37,086 units from 27,813 in the same month last year, two industry groups said Tuesday.

The Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. and Truck Manufacturers Association said in a joint report all automotive segments posted incremental increases in July.

Vehicle sales also went up by 2.1 percent from 36,311 units sold in June 2023.

CAMPI president Rommel Gutierrez said “the auto industry is notably going strong despite the consumer spending slowdown attributed to the risks of inflation.”

“In fact, the auto industry is sustain-

ing its positive growth trend as sales of new motor vehicles recorded a continued year-on-year growth for the past 17 consecutive months—since March 2022. The industry hopes to maintain this trend for the year,” he said.

Passenger car sales went up by 49.8 percent to 9,509 in July from 6,346 units a year ago and 5.82 percent from 8,986 units in June 2023.

Commercial vehicles sales grew 28.5 percent to 27,577 from 21,467 units last year. All categories under the commercial vehicle segment registered incremental sales increases.

Month-on-month sales of commercial vehicles went up 0.9 percent from 27,325 units in June.

Total sales in the first seven months reached 239,501 units, up by 31.1 per-

Electric co-op opposes franchise area expansion of Davao Light

By Alena Mae S. Flores

NORTHERN Davao Electric Cooperative on Tuesday expressed opposition of proposed bills that aim to expand the franchise area of Davao Light and Power Company Inc.

Nordeco legal counsel Jeorge Rapista warned of a possible “constitutional crisis” if the four bills seeking to amend the franchise areas of electricity distributors in Mindanao were passed.

House Bill Nos. 5077, 6740, 6995 and 7047 proposed to expand Davao Light’s franchise area.

The bills were deliberated upon by lawmakers for its alleged violations to the Constitution and the Electric Power

Industry Reform Act of 2001.

“The Constitution does not allow laws that impair contracts. With HBs 5077, 6740, 6995 and 7047, existing contracts of Nordeco will be substantially impaired. For example, power supply contracts will be servicing a much smaller franchise area,” said Rapista, who attended the session of the Committee on Legislative Franchises.

“If these HBs are passed, it would create a disastrous precedent that can be abused. It encourages cutthroat behavior among competitors for the same franchise areas. Essentially, it overwrites the due process required by the EPIRA law to suspend or revoke franchise rights,” Rapista said.

cent from 182,687 delivered in the same period in 2022.

Passenger cars sold in the sevenmonth period went up by 33.1 percent to 60,501 from 45,349 units a year earlier, while commercial vehicles sales increased 30.4 percent to 179,144 from 137,338 units.

Toyota Motor Philippines led the market with 45.99-percent share, followed by Mitsubishi Motor Philippines Corp. with 18.30 percent.

Completing the top 5 are Ford Motor Philippines Company Inc. with 6.94-percent market share, followed by Nissan Philippines Inc. with market share of 6.54 percent.

Suzuki Philippines Inc. displaced Honda Cars Philippines Inc. on fifth place with 4.25 percent market.

PSE INDEX CLOSING

Tuesday,

ponent status.

SMC’s unsolicited proposal for the CBEX and NBEX was also approved by the Cavite and Batangas provincial governments. Both projects share the common goal of connecting the provinces of Cavite and Batangas through Tagaytay City.

MPTC and SMC agreed to come together as partners in the significant ventures.

Aside from CALAX, MPTC holds the concession for several vital expressways including the Manila-Cavite Expressway, its C5 Link Segment, the North Luzon Expressway, Subic-Clark Tarlac Expressway, NLEX Connector Road and the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway in Cebu.

By Julito G. Rada

REMITTANCES reached a six-month high in June, driven partly by higher inflation that required the sending of more money by Filipinos working overseas to their dependents in the country.

Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas on Tuesday showed that cash remittances coursed through banks amounted to $2.81 billion in June, up by 2.1 percent from $2.75 billion posted in the same month last year. This was also the highest value since it hit $3.159 billion in December 2022.

“The expansion in cash remittances in June 2023 was due to the growth in receipts from land- and sea-based workers,” the BSP said in a statement. This brought cash remittances in the first half of the year to $15.79 billion, up 2.9 percent from $15.35 billion a year ago.

“The growth in cash remittances from the United States, Singapore and United Arab Emirates contributed mainly to the increase in remittances in the first half of 2023. Meanwhile, in terms of country sources, the US posted the highest share of overall remittances during the period, followed by Singapore, Saudi Arabia and Japan,” the BSP said.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the continued growth of remittances could be considered “a good signal or bright spot for the overall economy… as the Fed recently signaled reduced odds of recession in the US, which is the world’s largest economy.”

Ricafort said the continued growth in remittances might have to do with the relatively higher prices or inflation that also required the sending of more OFW remittances to their families in the Philippines.

“For the coming months, a singledigit growth in OFW remittances could still continue as OFW families still need to cope up with relatively higher inflation locally that would require the sending of more remittances, as well as some normalization of spending by consumers for both essentials and non-essentials as the economy reopened towards greater normalcy,” Ricafort said.

Personal remittances, which include non-cash items, also increased 2.2 percent to $3.13 billion in June from $3.06 billion a year earlier.

“The rise in personal remittances in June 2023 was due to higher remittances sent by land-based workers with work contracts of one year or more, and sea- and land-based workers with work contracts of less than one year,” the BSP said.

Cumulative personal remittances grew 3.0 percent to $17.59 billion in the first half of 2023 from $17.09 billion in the comparable period in 2022.

He said APEC Partylist Rep. Sergio Dagooc and PHILRECA Partylist Rep. Presley De Jesus agreed with his opinion.

The lawmakers noted the non-impairment clause (Article III, Section 10) under the 1987 Constitution as a key challenge to the bills as well as Section 27 of the EPIRA which provided that “all existing franchises be allowed to their full term.” Rapista said if the measures were passed into law, it would substantially amend the current franchises held by distributors such as the Nordeco, which is serving most of the municipalities and cities that were proposed to be transferred to Davao Light.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

GT CAPITAL Holdings Inc. said Tuesday second-quarter net income attributable to parent company surged 152 percent to P9.94 billion from P3.94 billion in the same period last year, boosted by higher revenues from property and automotive businesses.

Second-quarter consolidated revenues jumped 21 percent year-on-year to P60.6 billion, the company said in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

“Our key businesses in banking, financial services, automobile and property development delivered un-

precedented gains on the back of tempered inflation, resilient consumer spending and political stability,” GTCAP president Carmelo Maria Luza Bautista said.

“Despite lingering threats of rate hikes, foreign exchange volatility and global recession, we are optimistic that our domestic economy remains somewhat insulated and that the growth momentum will help carry us forward for the rest of the year,” Bautista said.

The strong second-quarter financial results pushed first-half net income to P16.6 billion, exceeding 2019 pre-pandemic earnings by 130 percent

152% to P9.94b in second quarter

LIFELINE RATE. Manila Electric Company strengthens its information campaigns in different cities and provinces across its franchise area to help increase the beneficiaries of the lifeline rate program. Through its barangay caravans, the company is also accepting on-site applications to encourage members of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program and other qualified marginalized households to apply.

SBP president hoping for best ever World Cup

IT’S all systems go for the 2023 FIBA World Cup, with Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al S. Panlilio beaming with confidence on the country’s hosting of the global hoops conclave.

“Everybody is ready to go. I’m hoping the best World Cup ever for FIBA in terms of not only showing the world that we can host a global event like this, but really the hospitality of the Filipino people, the smiles and generosity of our people. I’m sure they can feel that,” said Panlilio in the special edition of the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum at the Meralco Conference Hall on Tuesday.

“The whole Local Organizing Committee has been tireless when it comes to the World Cup preparations and I have full belief that we can provide a hosting like no other.”

At the same time, Panlilio mentioned about injured players Scottie Thompson and Kai Sotto now back in harness and already joined Gilas Pilipinas in the final phase of its preparations for the biggest basketball event for the year that kicks off on August 25.

“I was there the other night (Sunday practice), and everybody was there, the whole 16 players. Scottie is fit, it’s just a matter of getting back to the groove of playing. Kai also played. The doctors of Kai

spoke yesterday (Monday) with the SBP doctors, and he’s been cleared to play. So that’s good news,” added the SBP chief in the same session presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, MILO, Philippine Olympic Committee, and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation.

Panlilio was joined by SBP executive director Sonny Barrios, deputy event director Erika Dy, and joint management committee head John Lucas as they all expressed the country’s readiness for the event’s staging.

Sixteen of the top 32 basketball squads are heading to the country for the group stages, with the Philippines looking to set the new FIBA attendance record for the opening day Friday next week at the cavernous Philippine Arena.

The number to beat is 32,616 which was set during the finals of the 1994 FIBA World Championship in Toronto, Canada where the Shaquille O’Neal-lead USA cruised to the gold medal against Russia.

The Philippines could easily top that with the mammoth venue having a full capacity of 55,000, one that the organizers are hopeful to see when Gilas Pilipinas, bannered by Jordan Clarkson, opens its campaign against the Dominican Republic led by Karl Anthony Towns.

NBA star Clarkson elevates Gilas PH games up a notch

JOSHUA “The Passion” Pacio believes that ONE Strawweight World Champion Jarred “The Monkey God” Brooks has defeated everyone he needs to beat in the division, and he has an idea on how to solve the strawweight logjam.

While he wants a rematch with the American wrestling machine, he’s willing to throw his name in a Strawweight World Grand Prix just to prove that he deserves another shot at the American.

“I think Jarred Brooks already faced all the top contenders in the strawweight division. He is at the top of the division right now, and it’s really hard to see who should be next in line,” he said.

“I am open to join if [ONE Championship] decides to make a Strawweight World Grand Prix tournament. Even before I became champion, I’ve always thought about this. They did it in kickboxing and other MMA divisions, so why not at strawweight?

“Brooks and I have pretty much fou ght everybody, so a Strawweight World Grand Prix would be a fantastic idea.”

But a fight with second-ranked contender Bokang “Little Giant” Masunyane is something that he’s also willing to entertain, especially if that gives him a clear path to a rematch with Brooks.

“I’m ready all the time, but I think ONE is offering me a different fight. For me, if they give me the second-ranked fighter [Bokang Masunyane], I’ll accept. If they give me the champion, I’ll accept as the no.1 contender,” he said.

Whoever he faces next, he knows that the chapter between him and Brooks is far from over.

By Randy Caluag

BARELY a week in practice with the Gilas Pilipinas team, Jordan Clarkson is showing the way why he is a marquee NBA player.

That was how Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio and the coaching staff observed the Utah Jazz star’s first few days with the Gilas squad that is preparing for the FIBA World Cup.

While Clarkson acts like he’s just one of the guys, Panlilio said the Fil-American naturalized player still proves he’s a “different animal” in terms of skills and game IQ.

“May mga moves or assists that he

only sees and does. Paano niya nakita ‘yun?” said Panlilio on Tuesday during the special edition of the Philippine Sportswriters Association at the Meralco Conference Hall in Pasig City.

“And that’s how you are if you are an NBA player, you see things differently and see opportunities,” added Panlilio.

“ Clarkson would definitely elevate our team, and would provide big contributions,” Panlilio said.

Clarkson’s presence in the Gilas lineup, according Panlilio, has added an additional attraction to the top-tier basketball event co-hosted by the Philippines with Japan and Indonesia.

With some the NBA superstars begging off from the tournament, Clarkson and Slovenia’s Luka Doncic were left as top attractions.

Defending champion USA squad, under coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors, are composed mostly of young NBA players.

Under head mentor Chot Reyes, the Philippines’ Gilas squad will have Dominican Republic as its first game on opening day of the World Cup at Philippine Arena in Because, Bulacan.

Sotto cleared to play, joins Gilas training

25th,” said Panlilio.

By Peter Atencio

NBA hopeful Kai Sotto finally got a taste of fullcontact practice with the Gilas Pilipinas team.

The 7’3” Sotto got to do so on Monday evening after getting clearance to suit up for Gilas’ practices for the coming 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio got to watch Sotto play for some minutes after team doctor Randy Molo discussed the players’s condition with his personal physician.

“That’s good news. He’s been cleared to play and again, we’re looking forward to seeing him play also in the friendlies to get ready… I mean for everybody to get ready when the games start on the (August)

Pacio talks potential rematch with Brooks NU Bulldogs kick o V-League drive vs FEU Tamaraws

AFTER the highly successful Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference, collegiate volley takes center stage beginning Wednesday, with National University launching its title-retention drive against UAAP rival Far Eastern University in the men’s side of the 2023 V-League Collegiate Championship at the Paco Arena in Manila.

The Bulldogs will parade blue-chip recruit and reigning Spikers’ Turf Best Outside Spiker Jade Disquitado as they slug it out with the Tams in the 12 noon encounter.

Though seniors Nico Almendras and Joshua Retamar aren’t in the NU roster this conference, the defending champions remain as formidable as ever with Kennry Malinis, Obed Mukaba, Michaelo Buddin and Mac Bandola expected to lead the charge along with Disquitado.

Gilas is preparing to have friendlies with teams which will arrive early, like Mexico, Greece and Montenegro.

Sotto, who sustained a back injury during his time with the Orlando Magic in the NBA Summer League 2023, was not around when Gilas played a series of friendlies in Estonia and Lithuania.

He also missed the Heyuan WUS International Basketball Tournament in China because of his condition.

The Gilas coaching staff is seeking to raise the level of intensity of the practice sessions, now that many participating squads are about to set foot on Philippine soil.

Kicking off the fourgame slate for the tournament organized by the Sports Vision Management Group Inc. and backed by Bola.TV, Beyond Active Wear, ASICS and Mikasa is the reigning NCAA champion University of Perpetual Help DALTA-Emilio Aguinaldo College duel at 10 a.m.

The Altas, however, will miss the services of ace Louie Ramirez, who is currently training with V.League club Oita Miyoshi in Japan.

Meanwhile, University of the East’s women’s team begins its new era under coach Jerry Yee as it tangles with NAASCU champion Enderun Colleges at 2 p.m. The souped-up Lady Warriors team will be

spearheaded by rookies Casiey Dongallo, Jelaica Gajero, Kizzie Madriaga, Grace Fernandez and Claire Castillo.

In the other women’s game, Far Eastern U takes on Mapua U at 4 p.m.

The games will be streamed on the official V-League Facebook page and Bola.TV.

The top four teams from each division after the single round elims will advance to the best-of-three semifinals with the first and second-seeded teams squaring off with the fourth and third-ranked teams, respectively.

The finals will also be a best-of-three series while the battle for the bronze is a onegame affair.

SBP president Al S. Panlilio graces the special edition of the PSA Forum at the Meralco Conference Hall.

Jordan Clarkson

Kai Sotto

2023

‘Steely winner’ Wiegman England’s biggest weapon in World Cup semis

Bay Area Dragons bare new cage lineup

HONG KONG—Hong Kong-based professional basketball team the Bay Area Dragons, which will be named the “Chun Yu Bay Area Dragons” in a Hong Kong competition for their affiliation with the Hong Kong Basketball Association Chun Yu Basketball Club, have signed five new players from mainland China and Hong Kong SAR for the 2023-24 season.

Eight players from the team’s inaugural 2022-23 season are returning.

The new signings are: power forward Ramon Cao, who joins from Florida College in the US; guard Seva Chan, who last played with Australian NBL1 West team Cockburn Cougars; guard Adili Kuerban, previously with Fujian Sturgeons in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA); shooting guard Oliver Xu, who joins from Hong Kong Eastern in the territory’s A1 Division; and Wang Yunzhang, who last played with Beijing University of Chemical Technology in the Chinese University Basketball Association League.

The returning players are: guard Hayden Blankley; small forward Ju Mingxin; center Liu Chuanxing; guard/forward Kobey Lam; center Duncan Reid; guard Glen Yang; power forward Zheng Qilong; and power forward Zhu Songwei.

The Dragons will add several more names to their playing roster before the start of the season.

The Dragons will once again be led by Head Coach Brian Goorjian, the six-time Australian National Basketball League champion who also led the Australian national team to the Olympic bronze medal at Tokyo 2020. He will be supported by a coaching team again including Assistant Coach William Tomlinson (three-time Australian NBL champion, China Women’s National Team Assistant Coach) and strength and conditioning coach Francesco Berre.

Quezon foils Zamboanga; Bacolod, Pasig prevail

QUEZON Province weathered Zamboanga Family’s Brand Sardines’ final assaults and prevailed, 70-66, on Tuesday in the OKBetMPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) Fifth Season at the packed Quezon Convention Center in Lucena City.

With the Quezon Huskers ahead, 58-46, Jaycee Marcelino found his mark and the Zamboanguenos bunched 12 points to knot the count at 58 with still 3 minutes and 24 seconds to go.

The Huskers, however, found saviors in Alfrancis Tamsi, who canned back-to-back triples, and Robin Rono, who added another three, after Judel Fuentes had pushed Zamboanga closer, 62-64, with a 4-point play.

Marcelino, the reigning league MVP, drove in as Zamboanga threatened at 64-67, only for Tamsi to knock in a floater and Rono to split his two free throws, 70-64, sealing Quezon’s 17th win against 6 losses.

Tamsi wound up with 19 points, including 5 triples, while Rono, formerly of Zamboanga, contributed 12 points, laced with 3 triples, plus 4 rebounds and 4 steals.

SYDNEY—England had never won a major women’s football trophy before Sarina Wiegman became coach. Now they are closing on a second in the space of a year.

Wiegman’s European champions face co-hosts Australia in the Women’s World Cup semi-finals on Wednesday, with the prize a place in Sunday’s final against Sweden or Spain.

England’s squad is packed with quality but arguably their biggest weapon in Sydney will be the 53-yearold native of the Netherlands standing on the sidelines.

When Wiegman was named to succeed Phil Neville as coach almost exactly three years ago, England’s football association described her as “steely and a winner”.

It turned out to be the perfect description. She masterminded England to European glory last summer on home soil and they are now on the brink of a first World Cup final.

Wiegman smiles easily at press conferences, but gives very little away either about the team or herself.

It is clear, though, that she has the total

faith of her squad, who describe her as calm but direct.

Midfielder Georgia Stanway described how Wiegman had fostered a family environment at the World Cup that allows England’s squad to thrive while also relaxing when they need to.

That includes allowing the players to have their families with them, rather than isolating the squad.

But even for her players, there is something about Wiegman that is almost otherworldly.

“We’ve all got families out here—even Sarina,” said Stanway.

Asked by a reporter to clarify what she meant by “even Sarina”, Stanway looked a little sheepishly at her coach sitting next to her and laughed.

“Sometimes, er, sometimes you don’t realise that your head coach is actually human,” she said. Worth the wait

The strength of the Women’s Su-

per League and the game’s growth in England means that Wiegman has a deep pool of players from which to choose.

Even prior to leading England to European glory last summer, there was a feeling that Wiegman could be the difference between this Lionesses side and those that went before.

The former PE teacher led the Netherlands to the European title in 2017, then did the same with England.

She also guided the Netherlands to the final of the 2019 World Cup, where they lost 2-0 to the United States.

England had to wait more than a year between Wiegman agreeing to the job in August 2020 and taking charge in September 2021, because of her commitments with the Dutch at the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Olympics.

But she proved worth the wait and England have lost only once under Wiegman.

That sole defeat suddenly becomes more relevant—it was to Australia, a 2-0 loss in London in April that ended the Lionesses’ 30-game unbeaten run. AFP

Zamboanga dropped to 16-7 despite Marcelino’s 22-point, 5-rebound, 4-steal, 3-assist effort, Fuentes’ 12 points and Joseph Gabayni’s 11.

Earlier, Pasig City MCW Sports drubbed Valenzuela XUR Homes Realty Inc., 85-62, while Bacolod routed Laguna Krah Asia, 84-68. Powered by Ryan Paule Costelo, Pasig led from the start and cruised to its 17th win against 8 losses in the elimination round of the two-division, 29-team tournament. Hardly 5-foot-6, Costelo fired 24 points, laced by 5 triples, grabbed 7 rebounds, issued 5 assists and made 4 steals. He was supported by Michael Maestre with 15 points plus 7 rebounds, Kenny Roger Rocacurva with 13 points plus 7 rebounds, and Robbie Manalang with 11 points plus 10 assists.

Valenzuela, which is already out of the playoff race at 3-21, got 27 points plus 6 rebounds from Krentz Carlos and 17 points plus 14 rebounds from Michael Angelo Macion. Bacolod climbed to 10-14 and remain in playoff contention.

Pangilinan on Filipinas’ World Cup feat: It’s a good start

PLDT Inc. and MVP Sports Foundation

Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan and PLDT and Smart Communications President and CEO Alfredo S. Panlilio, together with PLDT Leadership Transition Officer Ricky Vargas, PLDT and Smart FVP and MVPSF Executive Director Jude Turcuato, and other executives met with the Philippine Women’s National Football Team and Philippine Football Federation president Mariano Araneta to personally congratulate them for their historic stint at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.

“It’s a good start for the Filipinas. Keep it up! We hope to see more of you in succeeding World Cup tournaments. We also would like to congratulate PFF for gathering these talented young women to represent the nation,” Pangilinan told the squad.

The Filipinas made their mark in the recent World Cup, following a 1-0 win against New Zealand, led by Sarina Bolden’s historic goal and Olivia McDaniel’s impres-

sive goal-keeping performance. The MVP conglomerate and the MVPSF have long been staunch support-

ers of the development of sports for Filipinos. In particular, the group has supported football since more than a decade

ago through the Philippine Football Federation-Smart National Club Championships. The foundation began supporting the PFF’s Women’s National Team program in 2014 when the organization decided to invest in Talent Identification of heritage Filipinas playing in the US, the FIFA Women’s World #1 ranked country. Panlilio, who also sits as President of the MVPSF and First Vice President of the Philippine Olympic Committee, took to social media to congratulate Filipinas, citing them as “phenomenal athletes and inspiring role models for young girls everywhere.” As President of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) and Head of the Philippine Local Organizing Committee for the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, he also called on Filipinos to support all sports. “Let’s uplift every Filipino athlete who pours their heart into what they love in the hope of bringing honor to our beloved country,” Panlilio said.

IRONMAN PH, 70.3 Subic brace for record ’24 run

ELEVEN months into its 11th staging, the organizing IRONMAN Group is pulling out all the stops to guarantee not only a record draw and but also a highly successful Century Tuna IRONMAN Philippines and IM 70.3 Subic on June 9, 2024 in Subic Bay.

In fact, registration for the two premier endurance races will open today (Wednesday, Aug. 16) with the twin races expected to attract athletes and their respective families from all over the world. For listup and details, log on to www.ironman.com/imphilippines-register.

“Century Tuna has been in the forefront of triathlon in the Philippines with small sprint races for more than 10 years to the pinnacle of racing, that is the Century Tuna IRONMAN in the Philippines for four years counting,” said Century Pacific’s executive vice

president and COO Greg Banzon.

“Supporting these events have enabled us to see the rise in participation and excellence of the Filipinos in the sport, including SEA Games gold medalist Nikko Huelgas, a product of Century Tuna’s youth development program, to giving access for triathlon to be a venue for health and fitness for the wider community,” said Carlo Endaya, vice president and general manager for the Domestic Tuna Business of Century Pacific.

Also on tap is the IRONKIDS triathlon.

Subic officials are also ensuring the smooth conduct of the event in one of the country’s major economic hubs known for its resorts, golf courses, water sports and other recreational activities. Subic Bay has also been a popular tourist and leisure destination for years with eco-adventure, safari and marine parks among its top draws, including

canopy walks, zip-lining and hiking for adventure seekers.

“We are always excited to host the IRONMAN PH here at Subic Bay. More than a sports tourism destination, it offers an exhilarating experience to immerse yourself with nature, given our pristine sea waters and green mountains – all in one place,” said SBMA (Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority) chairman and administrator Jonathan Tan during Monday’s ceremonial photo-op of the event.

“This is an opportune time for us to foster a strong sense of community in promoting a healthy lifestyle for everyone. We will continue to support advocacies exemplified by the IRONMAN triathlon and encourage the advancement of physical fitness, mental resilience and discipline for everyone here at the Freeport,” added Tan.

England’s coach Sarina Wiegman-Glotzbach reacts on the touchline during the

Women’s World Cup quarter- nal football match between Colombia and England at Stadium Australia in Sydney. AFP

Chairman MVP and Al Panlilio chat with the members of the Filipinas.

SBMA chairman Jonathan Tan and the IRONMAN Group PH regional director Princess Galura, (second and third from left, respectively) hold the IRONMAN M-Dot during the ceremonial photo-op of the 2024 IRONMAN Philippines and IM 70.3 in Subic yesterday. With them are SBMA senior deputy administrator Atty. Ramon Agregado (left) and SBMA director Raul Marcelo. The 11th staging of the premier endurance race will be held on June 9, 2024.

ENTERTAINMENT

‘The Voice Generations’ premieres in Asia via GMA-7

By Nickie Wang

THE world’s biggest and most iconic singing competition, The Voice is finally coming to Asia via its newest spinoff of The Voice Generations premiering on August 27 on GMA Network.

Hosting the latent show is no less than Dingdong Dantes

“The Kapuso Primetime King is the perfect choice to be at the front of GMA’s production of the world’s biggest singing contest title with his expertise in hosting – navigating the happy, but sometimes heartbreaking journeys of the talents in the competition,” GMA noted in a press statement sent to Manila Standard Entertainment

The network added that the show kicks

SB19’s Josh and Pablo embark on heroic journey with ‘Sino Ka Ba’ track

SB19 members Josh Cullen and Pablo have injected fresh energy into the theme song of The Iron Heart, titled “Sino Ka Ba.”

Making their mark as a sub-unit within the popular P-pop group, the duo unveiled their rendition of the song on August 4.

Originally interpreted by Khimo Gumatay, winner of Idol Philippines season 2, “Sino Ka Ba” delves into the challenges faced by a hero in their pursuit of a noble cause. The creation of this anthemic track was a collaborative effort, with ABS-CBN Music’s creative director, Jonathan Manalo, taking the helm of production. Co-writing credits go to Star Pop label head Rox Santos and singer Jeremy G

In parallel, the quest for justice takes center stage in the ongoing season of The Iron Heart, headlined by Richard Gutierrez, Sue Ramirez, Jake Cuenca, Dimples Romana, Sofia Andres, and Albert Martinez

The series continues to captivate audiences with its riveting action sequences and unexpected plot twists. Since June, each episode

has attracted over 300,000 live concurrent viewers, a testament to its gripping storytelling.

A recent revelation within the series left viewers astonished as Apollo embraced his destiny as his father Priam’s (Albert) heir and the new leader of Tatsulok. A crucial encounter with Menandro (Ian Veneracion) and Eros (Jake) spurred Apollo’s decision to enlist CIB’s help in toppling Yusebeia and Brother Joseph, compelling him to wield Tatsulok’s power and influence.

Stepping into his new leadership role, Apollo tasked Selene (Dimples), Orcus (Christian Vasquez), and Nyx (Sofia) with uncovering Yusebeia’s concealed secrets. Meanwhile, Eros conducted transactions in Altare while directing Atlas (Richard Quan) to locate Apollo.

The burning questions linger: Will Apollo unravel Brother Joseph and Yusebeia’s enigma? Can he unearth Yusebeia’s link to Altare?

The Iron Heart airs at 8:45 p.m. on A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, TV5, Kapamilya Online Live via Facebook and YouTube, Jeepney TV, and TFC IPTV.

off the season with the exciting part of the singing competition: the “Blind Auditions” where some of the country’s best singing duos and groups with members from different generations try their best to be chosen among thousands of aspiring singers.

“Expect the competitive spirit of the talents to run high as they bring their ‘A game’ to the stage to impress the coaches and make them turn their seats as a signal that the coach has chosen them. If more than one coach turns, then the contestants get to choose which coach they want to work with,” the press statement added. The competition between coaches also begins, with each coach fighting to get their preferred talents on their team.

Coaches who will hone the skills of the talents are Billy Crawford Julie Anne San Jose, SB19’s Stell; and Chito Miranda.

Once their teams are complete, each group will go through knock-outs and sing-offs as they battle it out to become the first ever The Voice Generations champion in Asia.

Disco night with birthday girl Angel Leighton

By Vienna Verzo

ANGEL Leighton, a rising star from GMA, celebrated her 21st birthday in Quezon City on August 11. She was surrounded by her family, friends, and colleagues for a fun-filled evening.

The night was packed with delightful performances from Angel’s close friends and herself. She even prepared dance numbers featuring popular TikTok mashups, cha-cha, and rumba. Despite her confident exterior, Angel showed her vulnerable side by singing heartfelt songs she had composed.

Being a celebrity comes with its challenges, Angel blew out the candles on her Chanel-inspired cake with a simple yet profound wish: to find happiness. She emphasized that artists share similar struggles with regular people when it comes to difficulties in life.

“I find it hard to be truly happy, considering the challenges in work and family matters. My top wish is to experience overwhelming happiness,” she explained to comedians Ian Red and Pepita Curtis, who hosted the event. She also shared words of encouragement, saying, “For those going through tough times, I hope you stay strong and keep fighting, because that’s just how life goes.”

In addition to seeking happiness, Angel aspires to support her family and achieve success as an actress. She is determined to make a mark in the industry, learning valuable lessons from her Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis co-stars

and seasoned actors Beauty Gonzalez, Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla, and Max Collins, who have guided her as a newcomer.

“They taught me how to deliver lines correctly, be natural on screen, and their unexpected and witty remarks were eye-opening,” Angel described the camaraderie among the cast behind the scenes.

As her career flourishes, Angel eagerly anticipates collaborating with more stars, such as Elisse Joson and Lexi Gonzales She even joked about the possibility of doing roles similar to those in Kambal Karibal, given their resemblance.

Angel is excited to take on actionpacked roles and projects, like her current one as Pretty Competente in the 1994 action-comedy series remake.

BuKo marks 2nd year with new programs, milestone achievements

BUKO, the country’s first 24/7 comedy channel, is celebrating its second anniversary with a lineup of entertaining programs.

Since its launch in August 2021, BuKo has gained popularity in both PayTV and digital platforms.

As of June 2023, it’s ranked among the Top 25 PayTV Channels in the Philippines and is the most streamed Entertainment Channel on Cignal Play. BuKo is also popular for its hit shows #MaineGoals, which achieved the No. 1 spot under Cignal Play’s Non-Narrative Entertainment Series with host Maine Mendoza winning as Best Entertainment Presenter at the prestigious 27th Asian TV Awards. Meanwhile, BalitaOneNan, the first and only comedy news show anchored by KaladKaren, Alex Calleja, and Wally Bayola, was also nominated as Best Comedy Program at the same award-giving body. Another BuKo hit is the unique

comedy cooking show Kusina ni Mamang, featuring actual and personal recipes of host Pokwang co-hosted by DJ Jhai Ho

BuKo’s second anniversary brings new shows for all ages, including action comedy Jack and Jill sa Diamond Hills, the comedy game show Emojination hosted by Maja Salvador, and the variety show E.A.T. with Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, Joey De Leon, and the Legit Dabarkads. Also returning is the popular gag show Wow Mali Doble Tama with Jose Manalo and Wally Bayola, starting August 26.

Legacy shows like Okay Ka, Fairy Ko and Daisy Siete continue to entertain, along with Biglang Sibol Bayang Impasibol, which premiered on August 14.

BuKo’s original shows have received awards and recognition, showcasing their commitment to innovative content. APT Entertainment’s CEO Michael

Tuviera noted that BuKo enriches the comedy experience by blending familiar faces with fresh content.

“The awards and recognitions

BuKo has garnered for its original shows are a testament to the channel’s commitment to providing the most entertaining content while widening viewers’ perspectives by injecting a new approach to wellloved genres,” said Tuviera.

CignalTV’s FVP Sienna G. Olaso expressed pride in BuKo’s achievements and announced upcoming fresh episodes and new show launches.

“Cignal is proud of the milestones BuKo has achieved in its first two years, and there’s more in store for BuKo viewers as the comedy channel rolls into its third year,” added Olaso.

BuKo is available on various Cignal plans and offers mobile and laptop viewing via Cignal Play Live TV and Video-On-Demand for P75.

SB19’s lead rapper Josh Cullen

SB19’s leader John Paulo ‘Pablo’

left: ‘#MaineGoals’ hosts Maine Mendoza, Chi Chirita, and Chamyto Aguedan

The Voice Generations' coaches (clockwise) Billy Crawford, Julie Anne San Jose, Chito Miranda and SB19's Stell

Sparkle artist Angel Leighton celebrates her 21st birthday with her loved ones

‘Marriage Is a Marathon’

A book that chronicles three decades of enduring love and commitment

Celebrating cinematic excellence and creative ingenuity

you seen any of the films?”

From Day 1 of the Cinemalaya 19 until the last screening day, I’ve heard this question a hundred times from people I know and even from random strangers who were buying tickets takilyera whose Box Office counter was stationed right beside the Unfortunately, I’ve only seen three films; two and three-fourths if I must be specific. In one film screening, I needed to run out of the cinema because people were looking for me and there were small issues to resolve.

IN A world where “walang forever” and love stories often come and go like fleeting whispers, there emerges a tale that has been meticulously crafted over three decades. It’s a story that transcends mere romance, delving deep into the intricacies of commitment, endurance, and the remarkable journey that is marriage.

After an extensive five-year effort, Anthony Pangilinan and Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan proudly present Marriage Is a Marathon. The book encapsulates their journey before and after tying the knot, as well as their family’s journey as the running Team Pangilinan.

It serves as a mutual present exchanged between the couple themselves, as well as a heartfelt offering to those who have shared in their journey through the highs and lows of a three-decade-long marriage.

“You’ve been part of our grueling marathon that’s why we’ve doing it this way,” said Anthony during a media conference for the book held in San Juan City last week.

“We intended to launch the book on our 25th wedding anniversary but we got just got so busy,” Maricel said in turn. Her husband butted in quickly and said in jest, “I think we wanted to separate every other year, sa totoo lang, which is what you wanted to do in a marathon, you want to quit every mile. But somehow you realize that it’s worth taking risks.”

During the marathon, they often felt like quitting, but thoughts of their excited children waiting at the finish line kept them going. Sometimes, physical discomfort was strong, but the kids’ anticipation mattered more. Their children made the journey meaningful. This mirrored their relationship struggles. Remembering their positive faces, they knew giving up wasn’t an option.

Both have seventeen 42.2km marathons between them and several Ironman triathlon experiences. Four of their five kids were active Ironkids competitors throughout their childhood.

“We are far from perfect. We often see that a lot in our journey as a couple. There were so many times that we question each other if we would continue or not, then we remember those faces, the faces of our children, then we realized that we don’t want to fail them,” Maricel shared.

The couple shared that amidst relationship challenges, their strong bond persists due to their commitment to sharing emotions and working on issues together. They emphasized keeping most struggles private and resolving them between themselves, then sharing the lessons learned with others, avoiding airing private matters publicly.

“Most of the things we go through, we go through privately. We don’t announce it to everyone. We have agreed to sort out these things within ourselves. And these lessons we learned, we share with others. Nothing to sort out in the public,” Maricel said.

With eight chapters, anticipate a practical perspective on marriage, delving into its authentic trials, pivotal insights on fostering resilience, and most importantly, strategies for not just survival, but flourishing.

Anthony and Maricel have been married for 30 years and have five children: Ella, Donny, Hannah, Benj, and Solana

“We’ve seen through 30 years that people are so excited to have their grand weddings, but not so much giving their time and effort to prepare for the wedding, which is the day after the wedding. The wedding is just one day; marriage is forever,” Maricel said.

“And we see that in all our lessons from running marathons worldwide. [Marriage also] takes a lot of preparation. You will also see science through preparing, training, and recovering. And you need all the help you can get along the way,” she added.

The couple’s first book is Sabi Ni Mister, Sabi Ni Misis, published in 2014. The book is now available on Shopee and Lazada for P499. More details are available on Anthony and Maricel’s website.

Romualdez receives FAMAS Exemplary Award for Public Service

for “its very striking narrative that remakes the horror genre while humanizing zombies and endowing them with heart and soul.”

I confessed, without any disregard for the other competing films, that I Iti Mapukpukaw, the first full-length animated film in the history of Cinemalaya competing in the Main Competition section.

Partially, because I like its filmmaker, director Carl Papa. I first met the director when we arranged an interview with an online magazine.

Director Papa and one of his lead Gio Gahol, did the shoot somewhere in Quezon City. Their interview was funny, but full of insights. I like how he’s passionate about Philippine animation, championing the promotion and development of this

He’s one of the easiest filmmakers to work with, always replying to queries and very generous with his time for interviews. He’s very down-to-earth and approachable. So, I was so happy his entry won Best Film and two more awards.

Bringing home the Balanghai trophy for Best Film in the Full-Length Category, Iti Mapukpukaw was cited “for boldly taking on the challenges of technology in crafting a very engaging narrative of a young man confronting the demons of his past, and for its overall cinematic excellence.”

Papa’s film also received the NETPAC ((Network for the Promotion of Asia Pacific) Award “its finely nuanced, masterfully crafted, tale of healing, friendships, and young love, effectively utilizing state-of-theart technology that is integral to its storytelling.”

There’s also the Best Supporting Actress award for Dolly de Leon, who starred in the film Iti Mapukpukaw She was recognized for her “pellucid performance of an affectionate mother helping her son confront the demons of his past.” Another big winner was director Arvin Belarmino, another filmmaker I admire. Despite his achievements in filmmaking, he is very humble and generous in sharing his knowledge. His short film Hinakdal, co-written with Kyla Romero, won Best Screenplay

It also received a certificate from NETPAC because of Hinakdal’s “pithy, layered, and strong social commentary laced with dollops of humor.” Also, it received the nod of the audience, garnering it the Audience Choice Award, along with Rookie for the full-length.

During the after-party, I teased director Belarmino that I would be expecting a full-length entry from him soon, maybe in 2026? Crossing my fingers.

Meanwhile, Januar Yap’s Sibuyas ni Perfecto won the Best Film in the Short Film Category for its “quiet but coruscating take on social iniquity and how the poor’s exploitation by the rich is driven by their own denigration and self-abasement.”

Best Director trophies go to filmmakers Ryan Espinosa Machado and Mike Cabarles. For his film Huling Palabas, director Machado has effectively summoned “the resources of art to come up with a deeply personal film that evokes fond memories of predigital cinema while paying homage to one’s small-town roots, and how all of this contributes to fashioning selfrespect and self-identity.”

Director Mike Cabarles , on the other hand, employed “the resources of cinema in effectively evoking the loneliness of two brothers missing their mother whom they have lost to the sea” in his film Makoko sa Baybay Jopy Arnaldo’s Gitling received the Best Screenplay awards for the FullLength category. The film Gitling was cited for “its very tender tale of two persons bridging the divide between races and cultures and, through constructed language and silence and even evasion, coming to a poignant understanding of the heart.”

Actor Mikoy Morales and actress Pat Tingjuy were cited for their Best Performance of An Actor and An Actress, respectively. Morales won the jury’s nod for “his compelling performance of a charming but predatory womanizer who gets his just desserts” in the film Tether; while Tingjuy won the award for “her refreshing portrayal of a young girl coming to terms with her sexual identity as she comes of age in the exciting world of volleyball.” Read full story on manilastandard.net

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin Romualdez expressed gratitude for the FAMAS Exemplary Award

Celebrity couple Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan (left) and Anthony Pangilinan

Anthony and Maricel launch the book ‘Marriage Is a Marathon’ that tells about their journey before and after tying the knot

The Pangilinan couple is celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary this year

‘Marriage is a Marathon’ is now available on Shopee and Lazada for P499

From left: Cinemalaya 2023 winners Dolly de Leon, Pat Tingjuy, Mikoy Morales, and Bon Andrew Lentejas

The Cinemalaya 2023 winners