Manila Standard - 2023 September 12 - Tuesday

DTI: Fuel subsidies dealt within 2 days; Diesel up by 40c/liter, gasoline by 20c

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Department of Transportation said it will distribute P3 billion in fuel subsidies to 1.36 million public utility vehicle drivers nationwide affected “within the next 2 days, the latest would

be September 15.”

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said the subsidy will help PUV drivers and operators following nine straight weeks of oil price increases. Diesel prices went up by P14.80 per

Rice price cap off after 2 weeks

Finance, Trade chiefs stress support for EO 39, call it a ‘lifeline’

By Othel V. Campos, Julito G. Rada and Macon Ramos-Araneta

THE government may lift the price caps imposed on regular and well-milled rice after two weeks and allow market forces to determine the right pricing for the staple, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Monday.

At the same time, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, who was quoted earlier as saying he was shocked by the announcement of price ceilings on Sept. 1, said the economic team fully supports the decision of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to impose them.

“Executive Order No. 39 was issued by the President as the chief executive and the concurrent secretary of the Department of Agriculture. EO 39 serves as a lifeline, extending much-needed relief to Filipinos grappling with the high rice prices,” Diokno said.

Diokno, who was also quoted as saying the economic team was not consulted before the price caps were imposed, said they now viewed EO 39 as an “essential stop-gap measure.”

Under EO No. 39, the mandated price of regular milled rice was set at P41.00 per kilogram while well-

Diokno, economists in favor of Balisacan taking over Agri post

By Julito Rada

FINANCE Secretary Benjamin Diokno and private sector economists are in favor of seeing National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan lead the De -

partment of Agriculture.

Diokno, the head of the economic team, said it was a “sound proposal.”

“He [Balisacan] has heard it many times, and Arsi’s undergrad degree is in Agriculture Economics,” Diokno said.

At present, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is the concurrent Agriculture secretary. Security Bank Corp. economist Robert Dan Roces said it would be advantageous should Balisacan take over the Agriculture portfolio in a con-

NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan

Envoy says US, PH military officials planning fresh large-scale exercises

By Rey E. Requejo and Vince Lopez

SENIOR Philippine and US military officials are scheduled to meet in the coming days in Manila to discuss assistance programs and large-scale exercises, US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson said Monday.

In her speech during the commissioning ceremony of two Philippine Navy patrol vessels, Carlson said the meeting is part of the annual Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) activity.

The US ambassador said the meeting is intended to set “a course of action through assistance programs, largescale exercises, and hundreds of smaller

• US, Vietnam warn China on use of force in SCS

• US turns over P250m training facility to PCG

exchanges between our two militaries.” She said these engagements will help strengthen the US-Philippine alliance, build trust, and enhance interoperability for the protection of the two allied countries.

Gloria prodding

By Charles Dantes

IN CELEBRATING his father’s 106th birth anniversary, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. vowed to honor his father’s

PBBM marks dad’s 106th birthday with vow for better public service Morocco quake toll rises to 2,497

said, updating a previous toll of 2,122 dead and 2,400 wounded.

Rody back into politics, says Go

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

two days after she also posted a photo of her with former Vice President Leni Robredo on Saturday.

“I recently had a social dinner with

RICE PADDY ART. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (center, with sunglasses), First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, their family, and students grace the official launching of the 2023 Mariano Marcos State University-Philippine Rice Research Institute Rice Paddy Art at the MMSU campus in Batac, Ilocos Norte on Monday. The school unveiled the rice paddy art to honor the elder Marcos’ legacy on his 106th birth anniversary (see story below) Alfred Frias

REUNION. In a photo posted on his Facebook page, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go (right) takes a selfie with (from left) former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, former President and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, former President Rodrigo Duterte, and former Senate President Vicente Sotto III following an ‘informal gathering’ over the weekend.

NEW GUNBOATS. US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson (second from right) walks by the former USS Monsoon (PC-4) and USS Chinook (PC9), which were donated to the Philippine Navy and rechristened the BRP Valentin Diaz (PS-177) and BRP Ladislao Diwa (PS-178), in rites led by Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. (center, inset) and other military officials at the Philippine Navy headquarters Naval Station Jose Andrada on Roxas Boulevard in Manila on Monday. Danny Pata

US, Vietnam warn China on SCS

HANOI—The United States and Vietnam warned on Monday against the “threat or use of force” in the disputed South China Sea, days after the latest clash involving Chinese vessels.

President Joe Biden and Vietnam’s Communist Party chief Nguyen Phu Trong said the competing claims on the strategic waterway must be settled under international norms.

Last week, the Philippines accused Chinese Coast Guard and “militia” boats of harassing two of its own coast guard vessels as they took supplies to Filipino troops on the Second Thomas Shoal.

The Philippine Navy deliberately

current position.

“The advantage of the co-termed (NEDA and Agriculture) is that there is faster coordination with NEDA,” Roces said.

As NEDA chief, Roces said Balisacan is well-versed on the need to have better output from agriculture, as well as the nuances of the supply, demand, and price effects of output.

For his part, Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort told the Manila Standard that Balisacan could be one of the best choices to lead the agency.

“That is given his longtime expertise on Philippine agriculture which has been his specialization for many years,” Ricafort said.

Ricafort said the textbooks on agriculture economics written by Balisacan are prescribed in schools.

Bank of the Philippine Islands lead economist Jun Neri said it would be good to have a “full-time Agriculture Secretary.”

“Sec. Arsi can do a great job in DA given his vast research background in poverty and how it relates to agri productivity,” Neri said.

grounded an old ship on the shoal in 1999 to check China’s advance in the waters.

Beijing claims almost the entire sea, through which trillions of dollars in trade passes annually, and has ignored an international court ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.

“The leaders underscored their unwavering support for the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, without the threat or

use of force,” Biden and Trong said in a joint statement. They also called for “freedom of navigation and overflight and unimpeded lawful commerce in the South China Sea.”

The statement came a day after Biden and Trong struck a deal to deepen cooperation, widely seen as a way to counter China’s growing assertiveness in the region.

Washington is at loggerheads with Beijing on a range of issues including trade, security, human rights, and climate change, and is looking to boost its network of allies to counter Chinese influence.

Vietnam, which fought a war with China between 1979 and 1988, is wary of its giant northern neighbor and is one

of a handful of countries with claims on the many islets and outcrops that dot the South China Sea.

China deploys hundreds of vessels to patrol the South China Sea and swarm reefs.

The Philippines, a longtime US ally, has outposts on nine reefs and islands in the Spratly Islands – which Vietnam also claims along with the Paracel Islands.

Manila says Chinese coast guard and navy ships routinely block or shadow

Philippine boats in the contested waters.

Tensions between Manila and Beijing flared last month when China Coast Guard vessels used water cannons against a Philippine resupply mission to the reef, preventing one of the boats from delivering its cargo. AFP

US turns over P250m training facility to PCG

THE United States on Monday turned over a P250-million training facility to the Philippine Coast Guard that would improve its capability to protect the country’s waters.

Located in Balagtas, Bulacan, the Specialized Education and Technical Building will help train Coast Guard personnel on navigation, law enforcement, and maintenance of ships, said PCG Vice Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan. “They will have classroom instructions and a simulator, a laboratory for the engine room. Everything is here except for the physical water (of the sea),” he said.

sion. There is still much to do. What’s important is making life better for the Filipinos,” the President said in a mix of English and Filipino on Monday during the Marcos Day celebration in Batac City, Ilocos Norte.

The Chief Executive also urged young leaders and government officials to emulate the values, ideals, and vision of his father for the country.

“So as we remember and pay tribute to his memory, let this gathering serve as a testament to the unwavering pursuit of unity that he so passionately espoused for our people. In his memory, may our actions from this point on be directed by the desire to preserve and share the rich heritage of our province, of our nation,” he added.

He also thanked all those who joined the Marcos family and the Ilocanos in celebrating Marcos Day, which has been celebrated for many years.

President Marcos Sr. was born on Sept. 11, 1917, in Sarrat, Ilocos Norte. He served as the country’s 10th president from 1965 to 1986.

Ilocos Norte.

Senator Imee Marcos, meanwhile, cited the need for the courage and intelligence of her late father, amid the crisis caused by the skyrocketing price of rice.

“We need to unite for the coming days. We also need his understanding and forgiveness,” said the eldest daughter of the late President.

for her family over the decades. The provincial government of Ilocos Norte also marked the occasion.

“Today, we look back upon his greatness, our memories of his accomplishments, and of course, we forge our path ahead to build the Ilocos Norte that we all see and dream of,” Ilocos Norte Gov.

US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson said the United States stands with the PCG in defending Philippine sovereign rights and in upholding a rulesbased international order in her turnover speech.

The US Coast Guard will be actively involved in training programs and projects in the facility that took six years to complete due to pandemic delays, Carlson said.

“Unfortunately, we’ve seen 6 years of buildup in the West Philippine Sea as well,” she said.

“It’s really important that we have a long-term commitment to the Coast Guard, to the people of the Philippines because we are truly steadfast friends, we are partners in prosperity and we are ironclad allies and that’s a mutual defense treaty that we have.”

Beijing claims almost the entire South China Sea, including parts of the West Philippine Sea, through which trillions of dollars in trade passes annually.

China has ignored an international court ruling that its assertion has no legal basis and has deployed hundreds of vessels to patrol the sea and swarm reefs.

Last month, the Palace issued Proclamation No. 327, or the declaration of Sept. 11 as a special non-working day in

She also thanked the Marcos loyalists whom she said have been always there

Envoy...

From A1

Balisacan is an economist with extensive high-level policymaking practice and a well-recognized expert in Asia on economic development, inequality and poverty, antitrust (competition policy), and political economy of policy reforms.

Prior to his Cabinet appointments, he was Dean of the UP School of Economics, director-chief executive of the Southeast Asian Regional Centre for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA), and undersecretary for Policy and Planning of the Department of Agriculture.

Before joining the UP faculty in 1987, he was a research fellow at the East West Center in Honolulu and Economist at the World Bank in Washington, D.C.

He has authored and co-edited seven books and published, both locally and internationally, close to 100 academic papers and book chapters on various development issues, particularly in the Philippines and East Asia.

milled rice is at P45.00 per kilogram.

However, complaints by rice resellers who said they bought rice at a higher price than the caps sent the government scrambling to provide subsidies to cover their losses.

Diokno said the imposition of a price cap on rice was geared at addressing non-competitive practices by some market players and discouraging hoarding, thereby reducing the price of rice.

But he said that while EO 39 could be proven effective in the near term, it should not persist for an extended period.

Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual said it was a bit early to lift the price caps since they had only been in place for six days or since Sept. 5.

“So maybe within two weeks, we should be able to see whether we can lift the price cap already,” he said, noting that the wet season cropping, with an estimated production of 5 million metric tons (MT).

rice varieties intended for the mass market and low-income families.

Pascual assured the public that the country has enough rice, with one-anda-half to two months’ worth of inventory for regular and well-milled rice.

He added that the sudden spike in rice prices was speculative, considering there was no shortage.

“We were thinking that the traders are using the ban in India and Vietnam to create an issue on local supply and from there, they can raise the prices,” Pascual said.

The increasing cost of farm inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides added to rising rice prices.

Should the price of farm inputs remain steady, the price of affordable rice should be at P30 per kilogram or even less, Pascual said. He said the buying price of palay should be kept at P22 per kilo as a support to farmers.

The President on Monday emphasized the role technology would play in ensuring a stable supply of rice in the country.

ing the unveiling of the 2023 Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) - Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) rice paddy art.

“That’s what the DA will do. We will take the best technology, especially in these times.”

President Marcos said the government will develop the technologies needed to boost the country’s agricultural productivity and bring those new products to market.

The Palace said the prices of rice and palay are expected to stabilize as the harvest season begins this month.

Citing projections gathered by the Philippine Rice Information System as of mid-August, Press Secretary Cheloy Garafil said Sunday that palay yields could reach up to 2 million MT by the end of September and 3 million MT in October.

This data was presented by Agriculture Undersecretary Leocadio Sebastian to President Marcos in a report, Garafil said.

“As (United States) Vice President Kamala Harris emphasized in her meeting with [President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.] just last week in Jakarta, American support for the US-Philippine Alliance remains ironclad,” she said.

Marcos’ meeting with Harris took place on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Jakarta, Indonesia last week.

The White House said the meeting would build on US President Joe Biden and Harris’ meetings with Marcos in Washington in May 2023 and the Vice President’s visit to the Philippines in November 2022.

“The two leaders discussed the maritime security environment in the South China Sea, and reviewed opportunities to enhance bilateral maritime cooperation, including alongside like-minded partners,” the White House said.

Two refurbished American navy vessels that joined the Philippine fleet on Monday will bring “real” and “strategic” benefits not only to the country but also to its alliance with the United States and to the region, Carlson said.

On the other hand, gasoline prices went up by P9.85 per liter for the past nine weeks.

Bautista said the beneficiaries of the fuel subsidy program include 6,000 modernized jeepney operators, 150,000 jeepney drivers and operators, 500 modernized UV Express operators, 20,000 utility van express operators, 930,000 tricycle drivers and operators, and 150,000 food delivery riders, among others.

The Department of Energy, for its part, said the movement of prices in the domestic market is influenced by the movement of global oil prices.

“We are constantly talking with oil firms, but you know this is a global thing so it’s a common concern,” Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said when asked for comment on the successive weekly oil price hikes.

Oil firms raised the price of diesel by P0.40 per liter and gasoline and kerosene by P0.20 per liter, respectively, effective 6 a.m. today (Tuesday).

“Petron will implement the following price increases effective 6 a.m. on Sep 12: P0.20 per liter for gasoline; P0.40 per liter for diesel and P0.20 per liter for kerosene. These reflect movements in the international oil market,” Petron Corp. said in its advisory.

He said the rice cropping season which started in early September and may peak by mid-September to October will replenish the country’s domestic supply of the staple and possibly lower the prices for

“There’s necessary work to be done for us to be able to… take the new technology from the laboratory to the rice field. And that is where we now come in,” the President said. The President made his remarks dur-

termath of the strongest earthquake ever to hit the North African country.

The quake flattened entire villages. Faced with the level of destruction, the insurance broker felt she had to act.

Ordinary citizens are stepping in to do their bit for victims of the deadly earthquake in Morocco after some complained that the authorities were slow to act.

Maria Boujdig lives in Agadir but is originally from Tafeghaghte, one of the villages hardest hit in mountainous Al-Haouz province, the epicenter of Friday’s quake.

She loaded her car with food and drove more than 200 kilometers (125 miles) east to distribute it to needy villagers in the af-

“I got calls from families saying they had nothing to eat,” Boujdig told AFP. “So I spent 10,000 dirhams ($980) on food to help in my own small way.”

“The tragedy of the dead is made worse by the terrible conditions faced by the survivors,” she said.

“It’s catastrophic and serious to be hungry in these conditions. It was only natural for me to help.”

Tafeghaghte is around 60 kilometers

Arroyo added.

For his part, Go said the “convincing” took place somewhere in Metro Manila during an “informal meeting” between the two former Presidents.

former Vice President Leni Robredo and mutual friends from Bicol,” she said in a statement.

“We chatted about Bicol politics,”

The senator posted on his Facebook account a photo of the meeting between Arroyo and Duterte, which was also at-

Sebastian said they expect to produce more than 11 million metric tons of palay until December.

Matthew Marcos Manotoc remarked as he led the wreath-laying ceremonies marking the occasion. liter while kerosene increased by P13.95 per liter for the past ten weeks.

“Barring strong typhoons in the remaining months of the year, we hope to hit the 20-million MT level for 2023 national palay output,” the Palace release quoted him as saying.

from the tourist center of Marrakesh and accessible only by a narrow dusty track.

‘Something to eat’

In a small warehouse spared by the quake, three villagers stored packs of water, sacks of flour, tea, canned goods, and cakes that Boujdig and like-minded benefactors brought to the village.

One of them, Mohammed, who asked that his last name not be used, lost his 16-year-old daughter in the tragedy.

“Twenty-four hours after it happened, we decided to take things into our own hands because there was no one else to help us,” he said.

tended by Duterte’s former Executive Secretary Samuel Medialdea, and former Senate President Vicente Sotto III. Go declined to provide other details on the “talks” but said Arroyo invited Duterte to the “informal gathering.”

The senator said he accompanied Duterte for his medical check-up and then

During the christening and commissioning of BRP Valentin Diaz and BRP Ladislao Diwa, both Alvarezclass patrol vessels, Carlson said the boats were entering into service “at an important time when the maritime security environment in the Indo-Pacific is increasingly complex.”

She noted that amid China’s aggression in the South China Sea, Manila and Washington have committed to upholding rules-based order and deterring actions that will undermine peace and stability in the region.

Carlson said the mission that the vessels will undertake will not be easy as they will patrol the Philippine waters, protect legitimate economic activities, fight against illegal fishing, and deliver human assistance and disaster relief.

“I commend the brave sailors who serve aboard them. Their dedicated service and the missions they undertake are central to the shared US-Philippine goal of ensuring a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region,” Carlson said.

to the meeting with Arroyo.

“Since former President Duterte seldom goes to Manila these days, the meeting with Arroyo was made in time for his check-up,” he said.

He said Sotto also wanted to personally see Duterte so he attended the simple get-together.

MARCOS SR.’S 106TH. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. speaks during a Mass offered on the 106th birth anniversary of his father, former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., on Monday in Batac, Ilocos Norte. PGIN Photo

DOF: Maharlika to contribute to PH economy, generate jobs

THE Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) can generate a 0.07-percentage point economic growth annually in the first 10 years of operation and generate about 100,000 direct and indirect jobs, the Department of Finance (DOF) said.

“A fully operational MIF, coupled with an ideal economic backdrop to attract more investors will definitely be major factors that will increase job creation in the country, consequently accelerating the Philippines’ economic growth,” the DOF said in a fact sheet released to reporters during its weekly press chat on Friday.

The department said contribution to

IN BRIEF

company said all PAL announcements or statements on cargo shipments are issued through Cargo Sales Bulletins emailed to our accredited / nonaccredited agents and shippers, and Official emails from our Account Executives. Joel E. Zurbano

Solon files House bill for marine resources

REP. Brian Raymund Yamsuan of Bicol Saro is seeking the passage of a bill that would protect the country’s marine resources to spur productivity.

Yamsuan filed the proposed Blue Economy Act which provides for a whole-of-nation approach in achieving these twin goals at a time when climate change and man-made activities continue to threaten the country’s coastal and marine ecosystems.

“The passage of this Act is among the key legislative priorities under the guidance of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The reason behind this focus is evident: as an archipelagic country, it is high time that the Philippines prioritize its marine resources and leverage them to cultivate a robust economy, while contributing meaningfully to global efforts in sustainability,” Yamsuan said. The bill has been sent to the Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting of the House Committee on Economic Affairs.

The proposed Blue Economy Act as outlined under House Bill (HB) 8708 was filed by Yamsuan along with Camarines Sur Representatives LRay Villafuerte, Miguel Luis Villafuerte, and Tsuyoshi Anthony Horibata. Maricel V. Cruz

AFP names new senior rep for Bahrain

PHILIPPINE Navy (PN) Captain Aldrin Gacusan on Sunday assumed the post of new Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Senior National Representative (SNR) in Bahrain during a turn-over ceremony held at the Philippine Embassy in Manama.

Captain Mateo Carido who assumed com mand of Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 on August 21, formally relinquished his duties and responsibilities as SNR to Gacusan.

“This is the very first time that there are two Philippine Navy Captains posted here in Bahrain, one as an SNR and another one as the Commander of CTF 151. It is really challenging on our part… but I know Capt. Gacusan is a very dedicated and professional officer in carrying out the tasks given to him.” Carido said.

Extending his appreciation, Gacusan said: “Life is not about finding the right person.

It’s about creating the right relationship… Rest assured of my utmost cooperation, you can rely on me in assisting people looking for their welfare and on matters of national security.”

The turnover ceremony was graced by Philippine Ambassador to Bahrain Anne Jalando-on Louis. Vince Lopez

Sara dismisses ‘lies’ on DepEd special funds

growth was included in the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) paper earlier submitted to the Senate.

“When the full P125 billion initial capitalization has been fully paid over the first 10 years of operations, the MIF can generate a 0.07 (percentage point) contribution to Philippine growth annually over the same period,” it said.

The DOF noted that the MIF is also projected to produce jobs.

“Due to spillover effects, the value added generated through investment activities in the first 10 years of the Fund is expected to still contribute 0.01 (percentage points) annually to growth over the next 11-20 years,” it added.

In contrast, NEDA also projected returns in a scenario where there is no MIF, and the PHP125 billion used for the initial capitalization remains with the founding government financial institutions and the national government.

In another scenario where, in addition to co-investments generated with other parties, the P500 billion authorized capital stock of the corporation

can be fully paid over the first 10 years of operation, the NEDA estimated that the MIF could generate a 0.22-percentage point contribution to Philippine growth annually.

The creation of jobs, both direct and indirect, is projected at 350,000 while the spillover effects in this scenario are projected to contribute 0.05 percentage points annually to growth over the next 11-20 years.

Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Benjamin Diokno meanwhile said the president and chief executive officer of the Maharlika Investment Corporation (MIC), the governing body of the MIF, should be a Filipino citizen.

VICE President Sara Z. Duterte on Monday thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for attesting to the legitimate spending of the 2022 Confidential Fund (CF) of the Office of the Vice President (OVP).

In a statement, Duterte also hailed Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, and Marikina 2nd District Rep. Stella Quimbo for defending the budget of the OVP.

“These efforts are genuinely appreciated because they help counter the lies told by Rep. France Castro and the Makabayan bloc in Congress on the 2022 OVP CF,” she added.

Bersamin, Duterte said, provided a detailed presentation about the 2022 OVP CF which proved that it violated no law and refuted the sentiments of its critics.

Duterte also mentioned Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros whom she said “could only wish the 2022 OVP CF was accessed illegally.”

“It’s a shame they still cannot produce any proof to support their dirty imagination. The indignity they have caused Congress and the Senate should be enough for us not to give them serious attention,” Duterte said.

The opposition lawmakers from the House of Representatives have been insisting that the transfer of presidential contingency funds to the OVP last year is illegal.

Last week, the Office of the Executive Secretary (OES) said the disbursement was made pursuant to Special Provision No. 1 under FY 2022 Contingent Fund.

Hontiveros meanwhile challenged the Vice President to defend publicly the confidential funds that the OVP is asking..

She said that the Office of the Vice President now has “low standards,” and “kept evading questions, and beating around the bush” Macon Ramos-Araneta

She also cited that two former Sen-

Office of the Ombudsman not keen on asking lawmakers for bigger budget

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE Office of the Ombudsman on Monday said it will not ask for a bigger budget under the proposed 2024 National Expenditures Program (NEP).

Ombudsman Samuel Martires made the statement during the agency’s budget deliberation conducted by the House Committee on Appropriations chaired by Ako-Bicol Rep. Elizaldy Co.

Under the 2024 NEP, the Ombudsman is allotted P5.05 billion. The amount is P1.67 billion less than the agency’s proposed P6.7 billion from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

During the hearing, Bulacan Rep. Salvador Pleyto asked Martires if the amount approved by the DBM is enough for the agency’s operations given the budget cut. In response, Martires said the total budget allotted for the

laments increase in unemployment, double-digit underemployment figures

By Vito Barcelo

THE Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) expressed disappointment at the sudden increase in the unemployment rate, while those who have jobs are still seeking additional work because what they earn is not sufficient.

In a statement, the TUCP said that while employment numbers remain high at 95.2% or 44.63 million, the labor group observed that unemployment increased to 4.8%, translating to 2.27 million, while stubborn double-digit underemployment ballooned to 15.9%, translating to 7.10 million.

“The double-digit underemployment precisely underscores His Excellency President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos, Jr.’s directive to key government agencies that much needs to be done to provide more and better jobs to the millions who either have no job at all as well as to those who have a job yet

are still seeking additional because of low pay and rising cost of basic com

modities,” TUCP Vice President Luis Corral said.

“A heroic all-of-society response is needed not just to restore or create jobs but to enhance job quality,” he said. He said the Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR), which defines the proportion of the total labor force to the total household population 15 years and over, has decreased significantly to 60.1% in July 2023 from 66.1% last month.

“The decreasing LFPR confirms the deepening problem of poor quality of jobs such that workers are already working double-time or even tripletime to survive while applicants are already growing frustrated in their job search, and instead focusing on household duties, going back to school, or worst, already becoming discouraged from the current offerings in the job market,” Corral said.

Ombudsman for next year may suffice to fulfill its mandate. He said the Ombudan is content with the budget given by DBM, and that the budget cut will will not be an issue.

Martires also said he is seeking the non-publication of audit observations of the Commission on Audit for government agencies.

“There is something that I would like to suggest to Congress if the special

provisions or general provisions at the GAA (General Appropriations Act) be removed… to publish the audit observation memorandum. This has caused chaos because it creates an impression to a person once he reads that if a P10-million project has some lapses, it would appear that a government official has gained something. But (reality is) a receipt has not yet been submitted,” he lamented.

Marawi board says 4,762 individuals file claims worth P17.5m

THE Marawi Compensation Board (MCB) on Monday reported that as of August 31, 2023, a total of 4,762 individuals have filed their claims, amounting to P17,456,836,830.

The MCB submitted the report to the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act of 2022.

MCB chairperson Maisara Dandamun-Latiph told the oversight panel that the filing of claims started on July 4 and the number of claimants booked until the end of this year reached 23,489.

“These are people or individuals who claim that they have structure na nasira (that were destroyed) or they have a death claim,” Dandamun-Latiph said.

“That 4,762 are claims filed. These are based on verified claims application forms (VCAF) that were filed by the

claimants. VCAF means that they have filed a claim under oath,” she added.

But, Dandamun-Latiph clarified that the filing of VCAF is just part of the first step of the process.

“Step 2 is the secretary evaluation report composed of lawyers and engineers.

Ibig sabihin, dadaan na naman siya sa second layer of verification which is yung (It means the claim still has to undergo a second layer of verification which is the) legal and technical evaluation,” she said.

The MCB head said so far, 220 claims have secretary evaluation reports and 120 claims worth PHP395 million have already been processed.

“July 4 only yan. Wala pa po tayong pinag-uusapang (That’s for July 4 only. We’re still not talking about) July 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, all the way to 31 ng August,” she told the lawmakers.

Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, who chairs the joint panel, asked the MCB to make sure that the process will not be corrupted.

“As early as now, nakikita na namin dito kung gaano ka-importante yung role ninyo talaga diyan sa Marawi Compensation Board dahil nandiyan kayo sa gitna eh (we can see how important your role there in the Marawi Compensation Board because you are in the middle). You have to make sure that you are operating within the budget and fiscal capability ng ating gobyerno (of our government),” Dela Rosa said.

“At the same time, you have to ensure duly and justly compensated lahat ng victims di ba? Ambigat ng papel niyo (all of the victims, right? Your role is very important). So, good luck. We are here to support you,” he added.

HIGHER PRICES. A gasoline attendant reaches for a hanging gasoline nozzle at a gas station along East Avenue in Quezon City. Fuel prices continue to rise for the ninth straight week (Story on A1). Manny Palmero

MEDICAL TENT. A health worker prepares a tubular medical tent to be used by patients who want to undergo cervical testing at the Manila City Hall on Monday.  The local government has invited women residents for the medical screening. Danny Pata

ILOCANO DISHES. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.  graced the Natnateng Cook-Off Showdown showcasing local vegetable dishes and other delicacies of Ilocos Norte at the Marcos Monument in Batac, Ilocos Norte on Monday. Rey Baniquet

Araullo files P2-m red-tagging suit vs. Badoy, co-host

By Rio N. Araja

BROADCAST journalist Atom Araullo

on Monday filed a P2-million damage suit against ex-Presidentia Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy-Partosa and one Jeffrey Celiz of the Sonshine Media Network nternational.

This developed as Ombudsman

Samuel Martires disclosed that at least one complaint for alleged red-tagging filed against former government antiinsurgency task force officials Lorraine Badoy-Partosa, Antonio Parlade Jr. and retired Gen. Hermogenes Esperon has been dismissed.

Araullo filed his complaint before h the Quezon City Regional Trial Court for alleged “wrongful and unlawful acts” or red-tagging offenses committed against him by the respondents.

In filing the case, Araullo was accompanied by the counsels from the Movement Against Disinformation Rico Domingo, Dean Tony La Viña, along with lawyers Artemio Calumpong, Cris Yambot and Ayn Ruth Tolentino-Azarcon.

Araullo was also seeking damage claims totaling P2.07 million from Badoy-Partosa and Celiz, hosts of “Laban Kasama ang Bayan” show on SMNI.

The complainant asserted that the respondents “maliciously disseminated defamatory statements” in violation of the New Civil Code of the Philippines.

Televangelist Apollo Quiboloy, SMNI owner, was spared from the civil suit, Araullo told the Manila Standard.

“I initially chose to ignore their attacks owing to their apparent absurdity. But because I’ve seen how treacherous, persuasive and harmful disinformation can be, especially when left unchecked, I have resolved to push back,” Araullo stressed.

“I am doing this for the safety and well-being of my family, but I also hope it contributes in a modest way to protecting press freedom in general,” he added.

He rejected the filing of libel, a criminal case, saying he was against the criminalization of libel.

“I would prefer not to invoke it because it also endangers legitimate journalism. Still, malicious perpetrators of disinformation must be stopped and held accountable,” he stressed.

Phivolcs: 7.2-quake in Metro Manila would leave 34k dead, 114k injured

By Rey E. Requejo

HERE is the worst case scenario if the so-called Big One struck Metro Manila.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), a magnitude 7.2 earthquake would leave at least 34,000 Metro Manilans dead and 114,000 injured.

Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said no Filipino has so far expressed intention to be repatriated from Morocco which suffered a powerful earthquake on Friday night.

“The West Valley Fault is capable of

generating a magnitude 7.2 earthquake and based on a 2004 study, the expected casualties would be 34,000 in Metro Manila, plus 114,000 injured,” Phivolcs director Teresito Bacolcol in a TeleRadyo Serbisyo interview.

According to Bacolcol, the last time the West Valley Fault moved was in 1658, making it ripe for a massive quake.

An Earthquake Impact Reduction Study for the Metro Manil Development Authority (MMDA) and Phivolcs, funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, showed a 7.2-magnitude quake could kill up to 34,000 people as13 percent of residential houses in the area collapsed. Another 100,000 people are expected to sustain injuries due to the collapsing structures, while fires would leave10 percent of

public buildings unusable.

Bacolcol said a 7.2-magnitude quake in Metro Manila would cause ground ruptures and could be felt at intensity 8.

However, retrofitting buildings and houses to make them more earthquakeresilient could lessen casualties, he added.

More than 2,000 people were killed after a massive quake struck 72 kilometers (45 miles) southwest of the tourist hub of Marrakesh, wiping out entire villages in the hills of the Atlas mountain range.

The tremor was also felt in the coastal cities of Rabat, Casablanca and Agadir, where many panicked residents rushed onto the streets in the middle of the night.

The quake was reportedly the deadliest in Morocco since 1960 when the ground shook and destroyed Agadir, killing more than 12,000 people.

Bacolcol noted Moroccan authorities estimated the quake at magnitude 7.2, while the United States Geological Survey measured it at magnitude 6.8.

“So far, none of our countrymen are seeking repatriation. If any, the government is ready to assist them so that they can go home,” Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Paul Cortez said in media briefing.

Cortez also reiterated that no Filipinos were hurt in the magnitude 6.8 earthquake that struck the North African country last week.

“There are 4,600 Filipinos in Morocco but only about 50 are in Marrakesh, which was the place hit by the earthquake. Luckily, none of our countrymen were hurt or were among the casualties,” he said. With AFP

IN BRIEF

Police checkpoints confiscate 286 guns

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday said 286 firearms have been confiscated through checkpoint since the start of the gun ban ahead of the Oct. 30 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.

“As of 6 a.m. today (Monday), we have confiscated 286 firearms, 273 of which are small firearms and 13 are light weapons. As to the number of arrested personalities, we are still awaiting data because there is a discrepancy in the reports that came last night,” PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said in a press briefing in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

Fajardo said they were also validating nine suspected election-related incidents (ERI) from the regions of Central Luzon, Bicol, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Soccsksargen and Caraga.

The Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Council would have to be validated the reports within 10 days to determine if they can be considered ERIs.

Solon: Cancel deals with Chinese schools

LAKAS-CMD GATHERS

members

Social

STRENGTH.

The newest additions to the growing ranks of Lakas-CMD include (from left) District 5 Board Members Rosary Gracia Tababa and Nicholi Jan Louie Sison, as well as Villasis Mayor Nonato Abrenica, Sto. Tomas Mayor Dickerson Villar, Alcala Mayor Jojo Callejo, and Laoac Mayor Ricardo Balderas. Ver Noveno

DOJ bewails Teves’ threat to charge state prosecutors

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) on Monday bewailed a threat by the camp of former Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. to file administrative and criminal charges against the DOJ prosecutors who issued a resolution recommending the filing of murder charges in court against the expelled lawmaker.

“Threatening prosecutors and whining before the media” are not the proper remedies for persons who feel aggrieved in the filing of criminal cases

against them before the courts based on resolutions issued by the prosecutors of the Department of Justice (DOJ), Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Richard Anthony Fadullon said.

Fadullon was reacting to a statement issued by Teves’ lawyer Ferdinand Topacio that his client was considering the filing of administrative and criminal charges against the DOJ prosecutors who issued the resolution on the filing of murder charges in court against the former legislator.

Teves and several other suspects have

Imee warns vs. delays in delivery of land titles to agrarian farmers

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Imee Marcos on Monday warned of delays in the distribution of land titles to farmers due to “redundant revalidation” of their identities and certificates of land ownership awards (CLOAs).

Under Republic Act 11953 or the New Agrarian Emancipation Act, the government promised to deliver the land titles to the farmers.

Marcos, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Social Justice, Welfare, and Rural Development, aired her concern on the issue ahead of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signing of the new law’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR).

“We would like to emphasize the spirit of the law to facilitate the award-

ing of lands to agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs),” Marcos said.

“There should be no unnecessary revalidation for farmers to avail of the emancipation program,” she emphasized.

The senator called the IRR’s completion a fitting tribute to “my father and the father of land reform,” former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., in time for his 106th birth anniversary on September 11.

However, she pointed out that the IRR would be meaningless for the farmers if this posed a new stumbling block to their dream of owning land.

“Let’s not extend what is already the longest-running land reform program in history,” she said, citing its inception in October 1972 through Presidential Decree 27.

been charged before the Manila regional trial court (RTC) for the killings of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel R. Degamo and nine other persons last March 4, and for serious injuries sustained by 18 other persons.

The respondents were charged with 10 counts of murder, 12 counts of frustrated murder, and four counts of attempted murder. Murder is a non-bailable offense.

The Manila RTC had issued an arrest order against Teves who has not returned to the country despite the expiration of his travel authority last March 9 when he

was still a member of Congress. He was suspended twice and later delisted as a member of the House of Representatives.

“If the accused feels aggrieved by the resolution there are legal remedies that are available to them,” Fadullon said.

“Instead of diverting attention to the panel, we should not lose track of what really happened on March 4, 2023,” he said, pointing out that “10 people were mercilessly killed and around 18 were seriously injured because of the brazen attack.”

Rey E. Requejo

CAGAYAN de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez on Monday urged the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to scrap partnership agreements recently signed between several Philippine and Chinese universities.

“The CHED, particularly chairman Prospero de Vera, should cancel those partnerships. While we have been protesting against continuous Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea, here we have the CHED going the opposite direction by engaging with Chinese universities,” he said.

He said by initiating the engagements, De Vera and the CHED “are sending the wrong signal that we, as a country and people, are not united in showing our dismay, disgust, disappointment, and even anger over Chinese harassment and bullying of our soldiers, Coast Guard and fishermen in the West Philippine Sea.”

He said De Vera and the commission “should take the cue from our military,” which has stopped sending officers to China for education, training or social visits, and which has refused to conduct joint patrols with them within our maritime territory,. Maricel V. Cruz

Cops nab Chinese for gun possession

POLICE have arrested a 40-year-old Chinese national for alleged possession of a gun and prohibited drugs inside a five-star hotel in Paranaque City.

The suspect, Wan Liang will be charged with violation of Republic Act 9165 (the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002), Batas Pambansa 881 (the Omnibus Election Code), and Republic Act 10591 (the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act).

The arrest happened last Sunday at Pearl Entry, Okada Manila, and Entertainment City in Barangay Tambo.

Upon seeing suspicious objects and substances on the X-ray scanning, onduty physical security officer Jayson Casa alerted his supervisor, who in turn sought police assistance.

Responding policemen discovered a 45-caliber firearm with seven bullet s, 1.7 grams of shabu, and two ecstasy tablets.

tieup forged to assist N. Vizcaya farmers

THE United States government has forged a partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Nueva Vizcaya Agricultural Terminal (NVAT) to launch a first-of-its-kind e-commerce platform that will help Luzon-based farmer-traders expand their market.

In a statement released by the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) said

it assisted in the initiation of NVAT Fresh Online Platform (NVATFresh.com), which will be directly managed and operated by NVAT, a Luzon-based agricultural hub.

The move will also strengthen the country’s agricultural supply chain, the embassy said.

It explained that the setup is a business-to-business (B2B) online platform where farmers can list their produce for large enterprises. These

include supermarkets, food processing companies, and restaurant chains.

USAID also helped the country in the initiative through a P1-billion Strengthening Private Enterprises for the Digital Economy (SPEED) project, which ran for five years. Over time, the agency had provided technical assistance, onboarding support, and training for NVAT and its stakeholders who used the platform. Rey E. Requejo

BROADCASTER GETS BACK AT DETRACTORS. Alfonso Tomas ‘Atom’

Araullo (center), anked by lawyers Antonio La Viña and Ayn Ruth Tolentino-Azarcon les a P2-million damage suit against former Malacanang o cial Lorraine BadoyPartosa and her co-host Je rey Celiz for alleged red-tagging. Manny Palmero

MORE

Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez administers the oath to new

of the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) from the province of Pangasinan in simple rites held at the

Hall of the Speaker’s Office in the House of Representatives.

ROAD RAGE PRESSER. Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian together with local police chief Salvador Destura and road rage victim Henry Ong, conduct a press conference on the horrible incident that happened on August 19 in Barangay Punturin, Valenzuela City. Andrew Rabulan

National Security Policy under PNoy

conserving the natural environment amidst industrial and agricultural expansion and population growth. It seeks to support environmentally sustainable development for the benefit of the nation and its people.

As the country experienced economic growth, it faced threats to ecological balance from natural disasters and human-made destructive activities.

To the point

THE constantly shifting national security environment in the Philippines requires ongoing assessment and adaptation of our approaches to ensure the preservation, advancement, and resilience of our nation. Given the intricacies and transformations we encounter, it is of utmost importance to develop a unified and all-encompassing strategy that can proficiently tackle emerging threats to our national security while concurrently advancing our well-established developmental objectives.

In this four-part series, we shall examine the national security policy of the Philippines in three administrations, namely, 2011-2016 (Benigno Aquino), 2017-2022 (Rodrigo Duterte), 2018 (also by Duterte), and 20222028 (Ferdinand Marcos Jr.)

During the administration of President Benigno Aquino III, the NSP centered on the following main pillars, namely:

1.Governance: This element emphasizes the importance of effective and accountable governance as a foundation for national security.

2.Delivery of Basic Services: Ensuring the provision of essential services to citizens, such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, is vital for national security and stability.

The responsibility for maintaining this balance fell on all Filipinos, as individuals, families, and communities.

Cultural Cohesiveness: implied that Filipinos shared a collective commitment to principles of freedom and human dignity, as evidenced by historical figures like LapuLapu, Jose Rizal, Apolinario Mabini, Andres Bonifacio, Jose Abad Santos, Senator Benigno Aquino Jr., and Corazon Aquino.

It also signified the Filipino people were bound by a common set of values and beliefs derived from their cultural heritage, transcending differences in socioeconomic status, religion, ethnicity, and language.

Moral-Spiritual Consensus: emphasized Filipinos must be motivated by a shared national vision rooted in patriotism, national pride, and the advancement of national goals and interests.

National unity was pivotal for survival, where people took pride in their country, culture, traditions, and history.

This consensus inspired citizens to actively engage in programs promoting the country’s security and development objectives.

Peace and Harmony: As a democratic nation, the Philippines was dedicated to global peace and the maintenance of world order. National security thrives through harmonious relations with neighbors and allies.

To achieve this, the country must cultivate positive relationships with all nations and people, free from external control, interference, or threats of aggression.

This begins with fostering harmonious engagement with ASEAN member countries.

The 2011-2016 NSP identified diverse challenges and concerns in the security environment, which included:

A borderless world had emerged with an increasing flow of goods, services, capital, and human resources across national boundaries.

The shift of focus by economies from ideological concerns to trade and technological priorities.

3.Economic Reconstruction;

4.Sustainable Development: Promoting economic growth and development while ensuring sustainability is a key aspect of national security, as it can reduce vulnerabilities and promote stability.

5. Security Sector

Reform: This pillar highlights the need to reform and strengthen the security sector to better address internal and external threats to the nation’s security.

Collectively, they shape the National Security Policy’s (circa 2011-2016) approach to safeguarding a nation’s security and wellbeing. The NSP during this period also recognized seven facets of our national security that enhanced our national interests.

Each of these facet took into account the psychological and social dimensions of national security, including how people perceived and believed, social norms, and the character that impacted their understanding of government policies and initiatives.

As mentioned, these are:

Socio-Political Stability: pertained to achieving peace and unity among all Filipinos, irrespective of their beliefs, ethnic backgrounds, or social statuses.

It involved both the government and the citizens participating in nation-building within the framework of the rule of law, constitutional democracy, and the full protection of human rights. Simultaneously, the government must be accountable to the people and, as such, ensure social and political stability through effective governance, clear roles, and efficient performance.

Territorial Integrity: referred to maintaining the integrity of the country’s land and maritime territories under the effective control of the government.

It involved ensuring the permanent inviolability of the national territory and its control by the government and the state, including safeguarding the Exclusive Economic Zone from illegal incursions and resource exploitation.

Economic Solidarity: entailed collectively pursuing and strengthening the economy, making it capable of supporting national endeavors.

It relied on the unity of the people, who have a vested interest in the economy through participation and ownership.

This core national interest aimed to ensure Filipinos become stakeholders in economic and business enterprises, enabling them to collectively defend, protect, and enhance the economic system for themselves and future generations.

Ecological Balance: focused on effectively

MOSCOW—The Luna-25 probe, Russia’s first Moon mission in almost 50 years, has crashed on the Earth’s natural satellite after an unspecified incident during pre-landing maneuvers, the Russian space agency Roscosmos said.

The crash comes almost a year and a half into Russia’s Ukraine offensive that has seen Moscow isolated, with punishing sanctions that have affected its space industry.

The failed mission comes as several companies and nations have entered a Moon race, and put a spotlight on the Russian space sector’s troubles —from corruption to lack of innovation and partnerships.

Communication with Luna-25 was lost at 2:57 pm (7:57 August 19 Manila time) o SANTIAGO, Chile – In the basement of the presidential palace in Chile’s capital, Patricia Herrera was detained and tortured for months before being sent into exile.

It was early in a military dictatorship that would kill or cause the disappearance of thousands of people.

Fifty years after the US-backed coup that snuffed out Chile’s democracy, the wounds from all that suffering are still raw.

Torment As she returned from class at the university, Herrera was detained by officers in plain clothes because she was “a woman and a socialist.” She was 19. Herrera was taken, blindfolded, to the basement of La Moneda, as the presidential palace is called.

The shift of demographics, economic and political centers of gravity, and attention from the US and Europe to Asia-Pacific countries.

Meanwhile, new and more complex areas of security, as well as aspects of enduring problems, had become part of a muchexpanded agenda of national security concerns, such as:

Ethnic conflict and belligerent states that threatened domestic and regional stability.

Organized crime and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction were global concerns that transcended national borders. Conventional arms races

Environmental damage and ecological degradation that undermined economic prosperity and stability.

Transnational crimes such as terrorism and the proliferation of illegal drugs.

It was during the Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino Administration (2010-2016) that the Philippines obtained a favorable ruling against China in its territorial dispute in the South China Sea, which includes the West Philippine Sea.

The Philippines initiated arbitration proceedings against China under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in January 2013.

The primary objective of this arbitration was to seek a legal resolution to the disputes and clarify the maritime entitlements of the parties involved.

The administration also scored high on the good governance front.

President Benigno Aquino III took a strong stance against corruption and initiated investigations into the pork barrel scam scandal. Several high-profile politicians, including senators and members of the House of Representatives, were implicated in the scam. Some were arrested, tried, and convicted for their involvement. Despite positive economic developments, challenges persisted during Aquino’s presidency.

Income inequality remained a concern, and poverty levels endured in certain parts of the country. Additionally, some critics contended economic growth did not equally benefit all segments of society.

Overall, the Aquino government made earnest efforts at fiscal responsibility, infrastructure development, and efforts to enhance the Philippines’ economic stability and global competitiveness.

One major failure under Aquino is the continued failure of the government to address human rights violations.

That impunity would characterize every administration and haunts us up to today,

We share his expression of concern, made before world leaders who gathered in Jakarta for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit, which was intelligibly directed at China whose coast guard launched a water cannon attack and a blockade to stop Philippine vessels from delivering supplies to the Filipino outpost at the Ayungin Shoal.

As the Philippine leader was addressing the world leaders, Chinese coast guard vessels were shadowing two Philippine vessels on a resupply mission at the Ayungin Shoal, a part of Philippine territory, but failed to disrupt it. Beijing confirmed a day later its coast guard indeed shadowed the Philippine vessels because they entered the waters “without the permission from the Chinese government.”

But President Marcos was letterperfect in his criticism of the dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia vessels in the south China Sea, where he stressed – and we endorse the idea – that “unilateral and assertive activities (in the area) would increase tensions in the region.”

China’s behavior in the South China Sea raises questions

“We are concerned over consistent actions that are in violation of obligations under international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS, and under the Declaration of Code of Conduct,” President Marcos said.

He urged ASEAN members and their trading partners – including China – “to exercise self-restraint and refrain from unilateral and assertive activities that would increase tensions in the region, misunderstandings, and miscalculations in the South China Sea.”

Indonesian President and outgoing ASEAN chairman Joko Widodo did not name particular countries but also underscored the “importance of maintaining and promoting peace, security, stability, safety, and freedom of navigation in and overflight above the South China Sea.”

kicks off Thursday

BOOKWORMS, get your wallets ready -- “the largest and longest-running book fair in the Philippines” opens its doors once again starting Sept. 14!

On hand will be thousands of books from a host of Philippine publishers.

This is the public’s chance to browse and buy Filipino-authored titles and, for many, to expand the range of their reading matter beyond Western books.

There are also many activities slated during the event.

Among those participating in MIBF is Milflores Publishing, which has been releasing many well-regarded books over the past years since the revival of the brand under Atty. Andrea Pasion-Flores.

They have prepared a viewing party, book talk, book signings, a panel discussion, and book launch.

Dr Wilfredo Liangco will talk about his humor-filled yet sensitive book of essays about hospital life, Even Ducks Get Liver Cancer. Katrina Martin, Charlson Ong, and Kannika Claudine Peña will discuss contemporary fiction, and retired Associate Justice Adolfo Azcuna will sign copies of his memoir Silver is My Gold.

The University of Santo Tomas Publishing House (UST PH), under its new director Ned Parfan and new deputy director Paul A. Castillo, will hold book signings featuring their many prizewinning authors, among them Cristina Pantoja Hidalgo, John Jack Wigley, Chuckberry J. Pascual, Joselito D. Delos Reyes, Dean Francis Alfar, Nikki Alfar, Dina Roma, and Maria Alexandra I. Chua.

National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee will also sign copies of his books at the UST PH booths and on the MIBF Main Stage on Sept. 14 and 17. UST PH, founded in 1593, is celebrating its 430th anniversary this year.

Among the authors signing their books at the Ateneo University Press booth are film professor and critic Nick Deocampo, Edgar Calabia Samar, and Blaise Campo Gacoscos.

Indie publishers will be at MIBF too, including Balangay Books featuring Beverly Wico Siy, whose groundbreaking It’s a Mens World has

been reissued with an attractive new cover.

Another MIBF activity that mustn’t be missed is the Book Development Association of the Philippines (BDAP) Gintong Aklat Awards 2022. The awarding ceremonies will be at the Main Stage on Sept. 14 at 3:00 p.m.

“We have a shared responsibility to not create new conflicts to not create new tensions, to not create new wars and at the same time, we are also responsible to ease high tensions, to soften hard conditions to create rooms for dialogue and to bridge existential differences,” Widodo said during the ASEAN-East Asia Summit, where Chinese Premier Li Qiang was present.

We cannot understand why China continues to shadow Philippine vessels in our own territory, which points to militarization of reclaimed features in the South China.

China’s behavior in the South China Sea raises questions.

But Mr. Marcos has been to the point when he said “The Philippines remains resolute towards the peaceful resolution of disputes. We continue to support freedom of navigation and overflight and the rules-based international order in the South China Sea.

“We are still committed to defending our sovereignty, our sovereign rights, and the maritime jurisdiction in accordance with UNCLOS.”

This is the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, also called the Law of the Sea Convention or the Law of the Sea Treaty, an international agreement that establishes a legal framework for all marine and maritime activities. As of June 2016, 167 countries, including China and the European Union are parties.

page as well as those of publishing houses for more details.

* * *

The MIBF has certainly come a long way since its early days, when it ran for a month because there wasn’t much support for a book fair back then.

Most books sold at the event’s initial stagings were foreign books because the local book industry was not as vibrant and flourishing as it is now.

Today, there is an explosion of Filipinoauthored and -published books.

Among the finalists in various genres are Paul A. Castillo’s Lunas sa Nabubuong Lubos (Poetry in Filipino), Joselito Delos Reyes’ #Pasahero: Mga Nakikisakay na Sanaysay (Creative Nonfiction in Filipino), and Cecilia Manguerra Brainard’s Selected Short Stories (Fiction in English) of UST PH, and Allan N. Derain’s Aswanglaut (Fiction in Filipino) and Charlie Samuya Veric’s Children of the Postcolony (Arts and Humanities) of Ateneo Press.

Established in 1981, the Gintong Aklat Awards recognizes publishers for the quality of their bookmaking. The MIBF was first held in 1980 at the old Philcite. The event was then known as Bookfair Manila.

The early years were a struggle to get customers through the door.

As the years went by and support for the fair grew, special events and activities were added such as writing workshops, storytelling sessions, and book signings.

The venues became bigger and bigger -the Philippine Trade Training Center in 1990, Megatrade Hall in 1993, World Trade Center from 2004-2007, and SMX Convention Center starting in 2008. This year’s MIBF runs from Sept. 14 to 17, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., at the SMX Convention Center.

Free admission tickets may be printed from online files – check out the MIBF’s Facebook

50 years later, wounds of Pinochet regime still raw

It was then also known as “El Hoyo,” or the pit, as it was one of the first detention and torture centers set up by General Augusto Pinochet’s new regime after the ouster of Socialist president Salvador

Allende on September 11, 1973.

Allende committed suicide rather than be captured.

“From the very first night we got there, there was sexual humiliation. At first I thought it was just the guard who was overdoing it with me. I did not think it was an established thing that women had to suffer sexual, in addition to political, violence,” said Herrera, now 68 and a historian.

Herrera was held for 14 months at the palace and in two other buildings in Santiago that were converted into torture centers by the Pinochet regime.

She was then sent into an exile that would last 15 years, first in France and then in Cuba.

Two commissions created to study the dictatorship concluded that at least 38,254 people were tortured under the Pinochet regime, which lasted until 1990.

The basement in the presidential palace where Herrera was held was also known as Cuartel, or barracks, N°1 and is now used as office space.

People taken there blindfolded could identify it because of its curved wall.

On August 30 of this year, the current president, Gabriel Boric, had a plaque installed in the basement space to mark the horrors endured by around 30 people who were held there.

“We want to put up a marker for everyone to see,” Herrera said, “that here, in the political heart of the nation, there was a torture center.”

Disappearance

Agents of the dictatorship killed 1,747 people, and detained and made another 1,469 disappear, according to an official government tally. While 307 of the disappeared have since been identified, the other 1,162 remain missing. Fifty years

later, their families still wonder where they are.

In 1974, when Pinochet’s police detained a man named Luis Mahuida -- a 23-year-old university student active in leftist politics and the father of two young daughters -- they also brought an abrupt end to the childhood of his sister Marialina Gonzalez, who was then nine years old. Their mother, Elsa Esquivel, spent all her time looking for her son; it was a full-time occupation. Marialina Gonzalez looked after her brother’s daughters, who were three and 11 months old when he vanished. “I stopped playing with dolls. My nieces were dolls for me,” said Gonzalez. She never finished her education. She went to hundreds of places asking for her brother. Gonzalez even staged a hunger strike and recalls being arrested several times while taking part in protest marches in honor of missing people. She regrets the childhood she never had. “I was not capable of saying: ‘Stop, let me be. I want to go out dancing. I want to have friends.’ I kept quiet,” she said. Now 59, she dedicates herself to caring for her elderly mother and expects to carry suffering with her into her own old age. “There is no closure just because

Quite a few Filipinos are breaking into the international publishing scene.

The Philippines has been invited to be the Guest of Honor at the Frankfurt Book Fair, the world’s largest, in 2025, assuring global visibility for Philippine titles.

All these gains are encouraging, but we mustn’t lose sight of the fact that much more work is required to grow the industry and attract readers.

In terms of funding, for instance, the Philippines book industry cooperates to get things done because a single entity can’t do it alone.

The Resil Mojares and Ambeth Ocampo talk at the recent Philippine Book Fair in Davao, organized by the government’s National Book Development Board, was also sponsored by the Book Development Association of the Philippines and Vibal Publishing.

This shows that costs still need to be spread around because of budget limitations.

Hopefully the synergy among the industry stakeholders, as evinced by their sharing events costs and collaborating on other joint projects, will serve us well at Frankfurt and the other opportunities that Filipino authors and publishers can leverage for the growth of Philippine literature.

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

my brother is still missing. There will be no closure.” Exile

The dictatorship triggered the biggest migratory movement in Chilean history. Just over 200,000 people went into exile, according to the nongovernmental Chilean Human Rights Commission.

Employees of the Allende government, union leaders, workers, students and farmers left the country, taking their families with them. Sweden, Mexico, Argentina, France and Venezuela were the main recipient countries.

Most of the exiles were able to return home starting September 1, 1988, when the regime issued a decree allowing them back, a year and a half before the dictatorship ended.

A communist activist named Shaira Sepulveda was tortured in secret prisons called Villa Grimaldi and Cuatro Alamos. After her release she left in 1976 for France, along with her husband at that time. She left relatives and friends in Santiago. “My family was here, my sister, my parents. But what really hurt was having to go to a country where you are a nobody,” Sepulveda recalls.

She returned to Chile 17 years later with two children, but again her family was broken apart. The eldest child could not adapt to life in Chile and returned to Europe.

“I am an old woman, so my grandchildren there will barely know me,” said Sepulveda, who is 74. AFP

THE President was in the right forum when he said Southeast Asian countries must oppose the dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia vessels in the South China Sea.

One major failure under Aquino is the continued failure of the government to address human rights violations

The dictatorship triggered the biggest migratory movement in Chilean history

The early years were a struggle to get customers through the door

TAIPEI —Taiwan said Monday it had detected 39 Chinese warplanes and an aircraft carrier near the island after a US destroyer and a Canadian frigate transited through the Taiwan Strait over the weekend.

Between Sunday and Monday morning, 26 aircraft and 13 warships were operating around the island, while another 13 planes were detected since the early hours of Monday, according to Taiwan’s defence ministry.

China’s Shandong carrier was also detected Monday around 60 nautical miles southeast of Taiwan’s southernmost tip Eluanbi, sailing eastward and entering the Western Pacific for training, the ministry added.

China claims self-ruled Taiwan as its territory and has vowed to take it one day -- by force if necessary.

WORLD

In recent years, Beijing has ratcheted up military and political pressure on Taiwan, often conducting naval exercises or sending warplanes buzzing overhead to coincide with any diplomatic engagements with Taipei.

Taiwan said 22 of the 39 planes it had recently detected crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, a narrow waterway between the island and China.

“The military is closely monitoring the situation and has tasked aircraft, navy vessels, and land-based missile systems to respond,” Taiwan’s defense ministry said in a statement.

On Saturday, China said its troops were “on constant high alert” after the two ships belonging to the United States and Canada sailed through the Taiwan Strait. AFP

Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and US President Joe Biden hold a meeting at the Government Office in Hanoi on Monday. The United States and Vietnam warned against the “threat or use of force” in the disputed South China Sea, days after the latest clash involving Chinese vessels. AFP

China ‘resolutely opposes’ UK spying allegations

B

“The so-called claim that China is conducting espionage activities against the UK is pure fabrication,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told a news conference.

“China resolutely opposes this.”

UK police said at the weekend they had arrested a man in his twenties at his home in Edinburgh for spying, with the Sunday Times reporting he was a re-

searcher in Britain’s parliament.

Officers from the Metropolitan Police Service arrested him in March, along with another man in his thirties, on suspicion of offenses under the Official Secrets Act and both have been bailed until October.

Mao said: “We urge the UK to stop spreading disinformation and stop its anti-China political manipulation and

EIJING – China said on Monday it “resolutely opposes” allegations that an espionage suspect arrested in the United Kingdom was gathering information for Beijing.malicious slander.”

The incident follows allegations earlier this year that China flew a surveillance balloon over the United States, causing a diplomatic furor.

Here are some of the ways China has worked to spy on the West in recent years:

The United States warned in 2022 that the Asian giant represents “the broadest, most active, and persistent cyber espionage threat” to its government and private sector.

According to researchers and Western intelligence officials, China has become adept at hacking rival nations’ digital systems to gather trade secrets.

In 2021, the United States, NATO and other allies said China had employed “contract hackers” to exploit a breach in Microsoft email systems, giving state security agents access to sensitive information.

Chinese spies have also hacked the US energy department, utility companies, telecommunications firms and universities, according to US government statements and media reports.

The United States also has its own ways of spying on China, deploying surveillance and interception techniques as well as networks of informants.

In the technology sector, there are concerns that China’s state-linked firms

would be obliged to share intel with their government.

In 2019, the US Department of Justice charged tech giant Huawei with conspiring to steal US trade secrets, among other offenses.

Washington has banned the firm from supplying US government systems and strongly discouraged the use of its equipment in the private sector over fears that it could be compromised.

Huawei denies the charges.

Similar anxiety over TikTok, developed by China’s ByteDance, animates Western political debate—with some lawmakers calling for an outright ban on the app over data security fears. AFP

North Korea’s Kim ‘appears’ to have set off for Russia—Yonhap

SEOUL—North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s train “appears” to have departed for Russia, possibly for a summit with President Vladimir Putin, multiple South Korean media outlets reported Monday, citing unidentified officials. US and other officials told The New York Times at the weekend that Kim, who rarely leaves North Korea, was soon likely to head by armored train to Vladivostok, on Russia’s Pacific coast, for arms talks with Putin.

“Intelligence authorities believe the train presumed to be carrying Kim Jong-un is moving to Vladivostok,” an unidentified official told Yonhap new agency.

Another senior official told Yonhap Kim “appears” to have left Pyongyang and was en route to Russia.

Kim has not traveled outside North Korea since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

JUDICIAL REFORM. Israeli protesters block the entrance to the residence of Justice Minister Yariv Levin, in the central city of Modiin on Monday, as they protest against the government’s controversial judicial reform bill. AFP

Broadcaster YTN said Seoul “expects that Chairman Kim will hold a meeting

with President Putin of Russia around the day after tomorrow”, meaning Wednesday.

Moscow, a historical ally of Pyongyang, was a crucial backer of the isolated country for decades and their ties go back to the founding of North Korea 75 years ago.

Kim has been steadfast in his support for Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, including, Washington says, supplying rockets and missiles.

In July, Putin hailed Pyongyang’s “firm support for special military operations against Ukraine”.

Experts suggest that Putin is seeking artillery shells and antitank missiles from North Korea, while Kim is reportedly in search of advanced technology for satellites and nuclear-powered submarines, as well as food aid for his impoverished nation.

Vladivostok will be hosting the Eastern Economic Forum until Wednesday.

The Kremlin has refused to confirm

any meeting between Putin and Kim on the sidelines of the summit, which was attended by 68 nations last year.

The White House warned last week that Pyongyang would “pay a price” if it supplies Moscow with weaponry for its war in Ukraine.

Washington said Russia could use weapons from North Korea to attack Ukrainian food supplies and heating infrastructure heading into winter to “try to conquer territory that belongs to another sovereign nation”.

Andrei Lankov, a North Korea expert at Kookmin University in Seoul, told AFP that the possible Putin-Kim summit was part of “gentle diplomatic blackmail” by Moscow of Seoul because Russia did not want South Korea to supply weapons to Kyiv.

Seoul is a major arms exporter and has sold tanks to Kyiv’s ally Poland, but longstanding domestic policy bars it from selling weapons into active conflicts. AFP

Foreign rescuers join Morocco quake race against time Ex-cricketer

TIKHT, Morocco—Moroccan rescuers supported by newly-arrived foreigners on Monday faced an intensifying race against time to dig out any survivors from the rubble of mountain villages, on the third day after the country’s strongest-ever earthquake.

Manila Standard TODAY (MS-SEPT. 12, 2023)

The 6.8-magnitude quake struck the Atlas mountains late Friday southwest of the tourist centre of Marrakesh. It killed more than 2,100 people and injured over 2,400, many seriously, according to the latest official figures.

Rabat on Sunday announced it had accepted aid offers from four nations, while many other countries have said they were willing to send assistance.

Authorities have responded favorably “at this stage” to offers from Spain, Britain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates “to send search and rescue teams,” the interior ministry said.

It noted the foreign teams were in contact with Moroccan authorities to coordinate efforts, and said only four offers had been accepted so far, arguing that “a lack of coordination could be counterproductive”.

President Emmanuel Macron said

France was willing to provide aid “the second” Morocco requested it.

“Morocco is a sovereign country and it’s up to it to organize the aid,” French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna told BFMTV on Monday.

She announced the release of five million euros ($5.4 million) to help non-governmental groups already on the ground in Morocco.

A Qatari aid flight left from Al-Udeid air base outside Doha on Sunday evening, said an AFP journalist aboard the plane which carried rescue vehicles and other assistance.

Spain has sent 86 rescuers and eight search dogs to the north African country to “help in the search and rescue of survivors of the devastating earthquake suffered in our neighboring country”, said a defense ministry statement.

“We will send whatever is needed because everyone knows that these first hours are key, especially if there are people buried under rubble,” Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles told public television. AFP

gets 12 years for inciting murder

BADHOEVEDORP, Netherlands—

A Dutch court on Monday sentenced former Pakistan international cricketer Khalid Latif to 12 years in prison for urging the murder of anti-Islam MP Geert Wilders.

Latif, 37, had offered 21,000 euros ($22,500) for the head of Wilders in an online video after the firebrand lawmaker sought to arrange a competition for cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed.

“It was not a stretch to think that somebody around the world would have taken heed of the call to kill Mr Wilders,” presiding judge G. Verbeek told the court.

“The accused knew this and his call fueled the fire to have Wilders killed.”

It is extremely unlikely that Latif, who was convicted in absentia, will serve his sentence. Dutch authorities have sought in vain to question Latif over the case and requested legal assistance from Pakistan, also to no avail.

“It’s a good sentence, but it’s a pity that the accused is not here in court,” Wilders told reporters outside, sporting his trademark peroxide hairdo.

“It is no longer acceptable that the Pakistani authorities refuse to cooperate. I am going to ask the prime minister to ensure that Khalid Latif is arrested in Pakistan and extradited to the Netherlands,” he added.

Wilders canceled the cartoon contest after protests broke out in Pakistan and he was inundated with death threats. He has been under 24-hour state protection since 2004. AFP

BILATERAL WARNNG.

RACE AGAINST TIME. Women cry near the rubble of collapsed houses in the village of Imi N’Tala near Amizmiz in central Morocco after the deadly 6.8-magnitude September 8 earthquake, last weekend. Using heavy equipment and even their bare hands, rescuers in Morocco on September 10 stepped up efforts to find survivors of a devastating earthquake that killed more than 2,100 people and flattened villages. AFP

Stock market rises, awaits cues on US inflation

By Jenniffer B. Austria

LOCAL stocks edged higher Monday as investors await cues on US inflation and interest rates.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index rose 10.80 points, or 0.17 percent, to close at 6,233.74, while the broader all-shares index picked up 3.22 points to settle at 3,363.45.

Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said the local shares went up as investors wait for fresh batch of economic data that could affect price activity this week.

Overseas investors anticipate the release of US August inflation rate, producer price index and retail sales.

“Three straight months of gains in crude oil prices, stronger-than-expected services sector and lower jobless claims are fueling expectations for inflate to come in higher,” Limlingan said.

Investors in the Philippines also monitor the release of foreign direct investments.

Meanwhile, most Asian markets advanced Monday as investors turn their attention to a key US inflation report later in the week, hoping for a reading that will ease concerns about the Federal Reserve’s interest rate plans.

After a slow start Asian traders turned more positive through the day and tracked last week’s gains on Wall Street, with data showing a pick-up in Chinese inflation giving a lift to sentiment. With few catalysts to drive activity, Wednesday’s US consumer price index figures are a focal point, particularly as the Fed has insisted its future rate decisions would be driven by data.

Traders have been in retreat over the past week after a string of readings suggested the economy and labor market remained resilient despite more than a year of monetary tightening.

That has revived talk that the central bank could lift rates again before the end of the year or keep them elevated for an extended period.

The bank policy board is due to meet next

The Transformed Classroom

I AM writing this to thank and celebrate my students.

My name is Raymond Vergara. Students know me for my social media hashtag: #profkokalbo.

I teach events for the Department of Marketing and Advertising of the De La Salle University. These are elective subjects, which means students decide whether they want to enroll or not. This is why I thank my students. I am grateful to them for allowing me to teach.

In the 15 years that I have been teaching, I do know that students want to have fun while learning. But, to succeed in my classes, I require hard work―and I have seen many students work hard for what they want.

At the end of each term in the last four years, I have asked my students to complete a survey to help me understand their learning experience. This is part of the action research I conduct in every events class. I use this research to help me improve how I deliver my class.

My students describe their learning experience using the following words:

Fun

Fulfilling

Challenging

Impactful

By observing them through the years and confirmed by these surveys, I have learned that students want to make a difference in their lives and others. They are willing to work hard for it.

The million-dollar question is why? And if they are willing to work, how do I make them do that repeatedly?

The answer is simple, but it requires a leap of faith: allow them the freedom to learn how they want to learn.

Make learning fun, engaging and meaningful.

In the past four years, I was privileged to teach 22 events classes that initiated 72 projects that raised over TWO million pesos to help multiple beneficiaries.

The last four years have been significant for one reason: many of these projects were initiated, organized and activated ONLINE. The students did this while they were home. This speaks volumes to what they can accomplish when they take responsibility for their learning.

The last four years reflect how my classes have transformed and how I have transformed because of the pandemic.

In transformational learning theory, the pandemic is what you call a disorienting dilemma. In my class, it became a catalyst for change.

In March 2020, when everyone was forced to stay home, my students and I had one problem: how to finish the term with a purpose? But this problem felt superficial and irrelevant while the entire world suffered from a pandemic. How can we focus on selfish needs? If you frame the problem this way, finishing the term felt like an inconsequential concern.

And so, rather than asking, “how do we finish the term?” we asked a different question:

How do we become part of the solution to this worldwide problem?

That’s when One with Frontliners came to be. OWF is the story of how a group of 48 students raised close to P700,000 in funding in 40 days to help medical and logistics frontliners during the early months of the pandemic while stuck at home.

What began as a class project became an impactful project that helped medical frontliners from PGH and many other hospitals in Metro Manila and nearby provinces like Laguna. We partnered with organizations within DLSU, Angkas, DiscoverMNL and Gouache. We also

week, while the European Central Bank will announce its decision on Thursday.

“The data remains indicative of the fact that even if the Fed were to pause in September, they would potentially not close the doors to further tightening,” said Saxo Group’s Redmond Wong. Hong Kong dipped, but pared hefty morning losses, as it played catch-up with a regional retreat Friday, when the city was shut down by a heavy storm.

Tokyo, Taipei, Bangkok and Wellington also fell.

But Shanghai, Sydney, Seoul, Singapore, Mumbai, Manila and Jakarta were all in positive territory, along with London, Paris and Frankfurt. Traders took heart from news that China’s consumer price index rebounded in August, having contracted the month before. While the 0.1 percent rise was less than expected, it gave traders some hope that the economy is slowly on the mend after a painful 2023 so far.

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen looked to calm worries that the longrunning rate hikes would cause a recession in the world’s top economy, saying

GREEN LIGHT

extended help to the Ates and Kuyas of DLSU. We also delivered food to DLSU when the school hosted frontliners. We helped our logistics partners by providing food and toiletries to the Angkas drivers. All while the students were stuck at home.

Since then, classes have shifted to the hybrid learning modality. What has not changed is the desire of students to create an impact. In the recently concluded term, 90 students raised close to P300,000 in funding for eight beneficiaries.

My students inspire me. They make me want to be a better person. Through this experience, I have learned the following:

Students come to my class with a set of learning goals and objectives. They want to learn how to conceptualize or activate events. They want to develop and enhance skills that will help them activate events.

They want tips and advice. And perhaps, most importantly, they want to experience conceptualizing, organizing and activating events.

Students want a fun and engaging learning experience and are willing to work for this experience. They want to experience the subject matter. They don’t like a one-way exchange of information. Paulo Freire was right: students don’t find the banking model of education engaging or transformational. This is not to say that classroom lectures are no longer relevant. In fact, my students find my storytelling lectures engaging and impactful. Stories enhance lectures. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a 4-year-old or a C-suite executive―stories can be told in impactful ways that help you learn.

Students want to be challenged. They want to use their creativity to solve problems and create projects. They want to develop competence, and experiential learning is essential in acquiring relevant knowledge and developing important skills.

Students want to create an impact. The intention and capability are often there, but some feel there need to be opportunities for them to impact society.

How did my students raise over P2 million in donations in the last four years?

The answer is simple. They had the means, and they had a motive. They simply needed the opportunity. They find this opportunity in my transformed classroom.

In my transformed classroom, I am an enabler. I enable their goals and objectives.

I provide opportunities for them not only to learn and experience events. My goal is to help students understand that they can help solve society’s problems, one event at a time. Perhaps most of you would associate events with parties and amusement. To my students, events may be used to transform and create an impact in society.

I dedicate this article to my mom, Olivia Vergara, who recently survived cancer. She is the person who taught me the value of working honestly and with integrity. She taught me the value of helping others.

The author is a faculty member of the Department of Marketing of the Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business, DLSU. He can be reached at raymond.vergara@ dlsu.edu.ph.

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

she was optimistic it was on course for a soft landing.

“I am feeling very good about that prediction,” she said Sunday. “I think you’d have to say we’re on a path that looks exactly like that.”

She added: “Every measure of inflation is on the road down.”

On currency markets, the yen picked up after sinking last week to a 10-month low against the dollar, with support coming from comments seen as hawkish by Bank of Japan boss Kazuo Ueda.

He told the Yomiuri newspaper that policymakers would have a better idea later in the year about wage rises, a key data point for rate decisions.

The yen has tumbled around 10 percent owing to the BoJ’s refusal to move away from its ultra-loose monetary policy, even as the Fed pushed borrowing costs to a two-decade high.

“In this economic cycle, major G10 central banks have typically begun raising interest rates when core inflation has risen by two percentage points above their inflation target,” said Stephen Innes at SPI Asset Management. With AFP

China’s central bank vows to crack down on yuan speculation

BEIJING, China—China’s central bank said on Monday it would crack down on speculation that distorts the value of the yuan as the country’s currency sees persistent volatility.

The onshore yuan, whose trade is regulated by Beijing, last week briefly hit its lowest level against the US dollar in almost 16 years.

The unit has come under pressure as the People’s Bank of China lowers interest rates in a bid to kickstart the world’s number two economy, at the same time as the Federal Reserve has tightened policy to temper inflation.

The PBoC said in a statement Monday that it had convened a “special meeting” to discuss “the recent situation in the foreign exchange market and issues around the exchange rate of the renminbi”, the official name for the yuan.

“The financial management authorities have the capacity, confidence and resources to maintain the stability of the renminbi exchange rate and take action when necessary,” the central bank said.

“They are determined to correct unilateral and pro-cyclical behaviors, deal with disruption to the market order, and guard against the risk of overshooting the exchange rate,” it said.

The bank added that “although the renminbi has recently somewhat depreciated against the US dollar, it remains basically stable against a basket of currencies”.

The onshore yuan strengthened to 7.2766 against the dollar Monday from 7.3503 on Friday. AFP

DR. RAYMOND VERGARA

BETTER CITIES FORUM. Abhijit Banerjee, 2019 Nobel Laureate in Economics and Ford Foundation International Professor of Economics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, speaks at the Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum in Hong Kong on September 11, 2023. AFP

By Othel V. Campos

THE majority of the country’s chief executives are confident about the industry prospects for the next 12 months, according to the Philippine CEO Survey 2023 released Monday by PwC Philippines and the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP).

Results of the survey show that 83 percent of CEOs are optimistic on the next 12 months despite the threats of inflation, macroeconomic instability, cyber risks and supply chain constraints, said MAP president Benedicta Du-Baladad.

“Philippine business leaders have faced serious threats, but they have risen to the occasion and found new opportunities for growth through creativity and innovation. The pandemic has forced them to adapt to the changing business landscape, and they have emerged stronger and more resilient than ever before,” she said.

She said to address these challenges, CEOs are reducing operating costs, diversifying product/service offerings, investing in upskilling their workforce and deploying technology in their operations.

PwC, the knowledge partner for MAP’s International CEO Conference to be held on Sept. 12 at the EDSA Shnagri-La PLaza Hotel, said 83 percent of CEOs reported in the survey that their respective organizations had already rebounded from the impact of the pandemic.

About 79 percent of CEOs remain positive that their organizations will experience revenue growth in the next 12 months, while 87 percent are certain that they will see an increase in revenues within the next three years.

The survey says while the CEOs believe that the government’s performance in infrastructure development, forging stronger relationships with other nations, and promoting foreign investments have been satisfactory so far, there is still room for improvement.

The CEOs suggest that the government prioritize improving the ease of doing business in the Philippines and enhance technology and infrastructure across the country to further boost collaborations with other countries.

“The government’s support is crucial in ensuring that businesses continue to thrive amid the challenges. We need to work together towards a more favorable business environment that fosters innovation and growth,” said Isla Lipana & Co./PwC Philippines chairman and senior partner Roderick Danao.

PwC said that with 70 percent of CEOs doing business with international organizations, it is essential for the government to work towards deepening relationships with other nations.

About 89 percent the CEOs suggested that the government improve the ease of doing business in the Philippines and 75 percent underscored the need to improve technology and infrastructure across the country.

About 157 CEOs participated in the Philippine CEO Survey in July and August 2023.

DOHA BRIEFING. The Philippines’ economic managers present the country’s latest economic outlook to business leaders, bankers and investors at the Philippine Dialogue held in Doha, Qatar on Sept. 10, 2023. Leading the event are Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Deputy Governor Francisco Dakila Jr. (second from left), Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno (fourth from left), National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan (fifth from left) and Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman (seventh from left).

BSP seen keeping policy rate this year

By Julito G. Rada

MOODY’S Analytics, a unit of Moody’s Corp., said Monday it expects the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to keep the policy interest rate steady at 6.25 percent for the rest of the year because of the easing inflation.

Inflation rate in August picked up to 5.3 percent from 4.7 percent in July on higher prices of food and non-alcoholic beverages. This brought the average in the first eight months to 6.6 percent, above the 2023 target range of 2 percent to 4 percent.

“Despite that, we expect inflation to ease over the coming months and touch the higher bound of BSP’s [Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’] 2 percent to 4 percent target by the

EARTHQUAKE DRILL. Employees

end of the year,” Moody’s Analytics said.

“Unless inflation across food and energy proves to be stickier than expected, the central bank is likely to hold rates steady for the rest of the year and cut rates from the first quarter of 2024,” it said.

It said the higher inflation in August was largely due to higher prices of rice, the main staple food in the Philippines. Adding to the problem were the recent typhoons that swept through northern Luzon provinces, damaging crops such as rice and corn.

The National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan earlier assured the public that the government would strengthen its measures to ensure food security, protect consumers and provide assistance to farmers.

Most CEOs bullish on business outlook IN BRIEF

Foreign direct investments fell 20% to $3.9b in first half

NET inflows of foreign direct investments slowed 3.9 percent in June to $484 million from $503 million a year ago as global uncertainties impacted investors’ sentiments, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said Monday.

The BSP said in a statement the decline was led by the slowdown in non-residents’ net investments in equity capital (other than reinvestments of earnings) and their reinvestment of earnings by 11.8 percent from $126 million to $111 million, and by 26.8 percent from $122 million to $89 million, respectively.

“The slowdown in FDI may be due largely to investor concerns over weak growth prospects amid persistent global uncertainties,” the BSP said. FDI net inflows also decreased 20.4 percent in the first six months to $3.9 billion from $4.9 billion a year earlier.

BSP statistics on FDI include investments by non-resident direct investors in a resident enterprise, whose equity capital in the latter is at least 10 percent. It also includes investments made by non-resident subsidiary/associates in its resident direct investor.

FDIs are in the forms of equity capital, reinvestment of earnings and borrowings. Julito G. Rada

Meralco, US nuclear firm start initial study on use of micro modular reactors

By Alena Mae S. Flores

POWER retailer Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) initiated a pre-feasibility study with US nuclear firm Ultra Safe Nuclear Corp. for micro modular reactors, a top executive said Monday.

Meralco chairman and chief executive Manuel Pangilinan said during the Giga Summit organized by Meralco Power Academy that MMRs could help secure the power supply needs of hyperscalers, data centers and desalination plants in the country.

“We have started the pre-feasibility study. It will take three months. The feasibility study will take another six months,” Pangilinan said as he agreed to share the results of the study with the government.

“We had a meeting earlier with Ultra Safe...for the micro modular reactor option for the Philippines. It is interesting because of its walk away safety design. It is scalable because it’s modular and it has smaller footprint,” he said.

Pangilinan said MMRs have a capacity of 5 to 15 MW that could be ideal for hyperscalers and data centers which need reliable power supply.

“One impact of MMR is adequate and 24/7 supply to hyperscalers and data centers that PDLT and Globe are building for this country,” he said.

Pag-IBIG contribution to rise in January

PAG-IBIG Fund announced the start of higher member’s contribution in January 2024.

“Our board approved the collection of higher contribution come January 2024,” chief executive Marilene Acosta said during the Kapihan with Pag-IBIG at Victorino’s Restaurant in Quezon City.

She said the monthly fund salary—the basis of the 2-percent contribution rate—would increase from P5,000 to P10,000. On the average, the member’s contribution would rise from P100 to P200, with the employer contributing the same.

“It is our board who has the authority to increase the rate of contribution,” Acosta said. The fund’s board of trustees has 11 members chaired

Globe, bolttech team up to launch Gadget Xchange

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said Monday it teamed up with international insurance technology firm boIttech to roll out Gadget Xchange—a new mobile device program that will make postpaid device switching easier.

Globe’s consumer mobile business head Darius Delgado said the partnership ushers in a new era of device protection for postpaid mobile users in the Philippines.

“Globe is very proud to launch this new service with bolttech as we continue to look for innovative ways to serve our customers. This offer is another first and exclusive from Globe Postpaid, with the convenience of switching mobile devices, no questions asked,” Delgado said.

“With Gadget Xchange, Globe Postpaid customers no longer have to wait for their contract renewal to change their devices, and they can easily ensure device protection,” he said.

A recent bolttech study showed that a cracked screen, accidental breakage and liquid damage are the leading concern for mobile plan customers in the Philippines, with over 50 percent highlighting such possible damage as their priority for device protection. Another important feature is the flexibility to switch their mobile device for a different model, as cited by 43 percent of respondents.

Darwin G. Amojelar

4 Japan firms to hike investments in

PH

by Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development.

“Now, the contribution rate should be 2 percent. So 2 percent times P10,000, that is P200. The employee is now required to save P200, assuming that the salary is P10,000. If it is P7,500, that would only be P150. That should be matched by the employer with the same [contribution],” she said.

“That is effective January 2024,” Acosta said.

Acosta said the higher contribution rate would allow Pag-IBIG Fund to lend more for the national housing program which aims to

THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority said it generated P10.8 billion worth of investments during the 2023 Philippine Economic Forum. PEZA director-general Tereso Panga said four Japanese companies pledged to invest additional capital to expand their operations in the Philippines. The new investments will come from TDK Corp. which has committed to invest P7.2 billion; Taiyo Yuden, P 1.6 billion; Terumo Corp., P 1 billion; and Almex Technologies, P1 billion.

“PEZA will make sure that the country is ready to receive these investments as we have a small window to get the manufacturing of new high-tech products into the Philippines given the competitiveness of the industry,” Panga said.

He said 2023 is seeing a marked increase in expansion plans by existing locators to address the projected demand in electronics due to the rise of the electric vehicle industry and steady technological advancements in the downsizing of gadgets and their parts.

Panga said Taiyo Yuden’s newly patented product metal power inductor is manufactured in the Philippines from a facility in Cebu, its first manufacturing site outside Japan. The new product is the world’s first multilayer-type metal power inductor with the latest multilayer technology and unique metal material characteristics. Othel V. Campos

and staff at SM Supermalls actively participate in the third quarter nationwide simultaneous earthquake drill on Sept. 7, 2023.The actual earthquake drill, participated by shoppers, tenants and employees, took place during regular mall operating hours. Evacuation and rescue drill simulations were carried out to enhance the malls’ emergency response team preparedness and coordination among tasked units. Roy Tomandao

MAP president Benedicta Du-Baladad

Giddey first Wanda Rising Star awardee

AFTER an impressive debut campaign, 20-year-old Josh Giddey earned the Wanda Rising Star Award at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.

The Australia point guard is now the first recipient of the newly minted accolade by FIBA’s Global Partner, Wanda Group. Throughout the competition, Giddey averaged 19.4 points, 6.0 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game for the Boomers. In the history of the FIBA Basketball World Cup, there have only been six players - Drazen Petrovic, Wilfredo Ruiz, Kevin Durant, Yao Ming, John Lucas, and Leo Rautins - to average more points than Josh Giddey before turning 22 years old.

He led his team in points and assists per game and was arguably the best Boomer in the World Cup.

Tennis King Djokovic: I’ll just keep winning

NEW YORK—Novak Djokovic, who won his fourth US Open and all-time record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title on Sunday, is driven on through controversy by his determination to be the greatest ever.

The Serb’s victory over Daniil Medvedev at Flushing Meadows—his third major triumph of 2023—took him two Slams clear of great rival Rafael Nadal at the top of the list of men’s Slam champions.

For 36-year-old Djokovic, it matters to be the best, and he has a strong sense of his historical place in tennis.

He also keeps ploughing on through the highs and lows because it is “a great school of life”.

“I would like to send a message to

every young person out there. I was a seven-year-old dreaming that I could win Wimbledon and be world no.1 one day,” he has said.

“I am beyond grateful but I feel I had the power to create my own destiny. I believe it and feel it with every cell in my body. Be in the present moment, forget about the past. If you want a better future, you create it.”

Yet while Nadal and now-retired Roger Federer are widely admired, Djokovic continues to divide opinion.

His staggering achievements on the court have often been overshadowed by blunders and missteps off it.

At the French Open this year, he wrote “Kosovo is the heart of Serbia” on a courtside TV camera lens as ethnic tensions were again rising in the Balkans.

On court at Roland Garros, he was booed for fist-pumping as semi-final rival Carlos Alcaraz wilted with cramping.

Djokovic remains indifferent to the critics.

“I don’t mind. It’s not the first; probably not the last. I’ll just keep winning,” said Djokovic.

His most controversial moment was his refusal to be vaccinated against Covid, which culminated with Djokovic being deported from Melbourne on the eve of the 2022 Australian Open.

His uncompromising stance on the vaccine also saw him barred from the United States and unable to play in last year’s US Open. Even before that, the Serb was seemingly doomed never to be held in the same saintly esteem as Federer or Nadal, the undisputed people’s champions.

There are those who see something too calculating in the Djokovic makeup—an intense, brooding presence prone to affectation.

His infamous default from the US Open in 2020 for petulantly swiping at a ball that hit a female line judge gave a glimpse of his fiery character.

And some of his personal stances have drawn criticism—one claim that raised eyebrows was his belief that it was possible to alter the composition of water and food through positive thinking. AFP

Germany earns respect of basketball world

By Randy Caluag

THE newly crowned German basketball team is craving for more respect back home.

“The team is unbelievable. We compete to the highest. I wish we will get our respect for what we have been doing through the years,” said Dennis Schroeder after Germany plucked its first World Cup trophy at the expense of Serbia on Sunday night.

Schroeder, who emerged as World Cup MVP, lamented that German TV back home have committed only to cover the World Cup final.

That meant people back home didn’t have the benefit of watching their team live in action during its stints in the group stages in Okinawa up to the semifinals at the Mall of Asia.

“Only the final was on German TV. Basketball is such a great sport. I wish every single game is on TV especially next

“Everybody knows our team. But now, there are steps. Germany starts recognizing our team.”

Germany coach Gordie Herbert revealed how no less than the highest of-

ficial of Germany had expressed support for the team in its finest moment.

“I woke up and got a message from Chancellor (Olaf) Scholz. It was in German, but it was pretty neat. It just showed how Germany noticed. I couldn’t believe it,” said the Finnish-Canadian mentor, whose coaching contract was extended by the German Basketball Federation up to the year 2025.

“From now on, they recognize what kind of team we have, what kind of team that represents Germany,” he said.

Germany has some of the best players in the world and a testament to that was their flawless, 8-0 winning run in its 32-team odyssey, capped by the resounding finals’ victory over Serbia to become only the seventh country to win the FIBA World Cup.

Schroder capped his historical run at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 by taking home the TISSOT Most Valuable Player award after guiding Germany to their first-ever title.

How Mindanao made presence felt in FIBA World Cup 2023

IT took all of the Philippines to make FIBA World Cup 2023 possible.

As co-hosts of the world meet, Filipinos put their world-renowned hospitality on full display from the group phase when they took care of Angola, Dominican Republic, Italy, China, Puerto Rico, Serbia, South Sudan, Greece, Jordan, New Zealand, USA, Egypt, Lithuania, Mexico, and Montenegro all the way to the final phase when they also welcomed eventual champion Germany, Canada, Latvia, and Slovenia with open arms.

A key cog in the operation of the machine were eight volunteers

from Mindanao, who were helping hands both at the SM Mall of Asia Arena and the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Chelsea Bien, a 27-year-old from Bukidnon, went all around the venue to take the pulse of tourists on how their experience had been.

“Very fulfilling ‘yung ginagawa namin kasi marami akong natututunan. At times din, nakakasilip din kami sa mga laro and ako, as a coach, nakikita ko rin ‘yung mga plays to expand my knowledge,” said the survey volunteer after mentioning that back home, she works with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas as lo-

cal coach and game official.

Another local coach, this time from General Santos, also learned a lot about X’s and O’s alongside assisting VIPs from the Naismith Lounge to their arena seats and back.

“For me, fulfilling talaga ‘yung ginawa namin kasi as a basketball coach, seeing world-class basketball players every day is a blessing,” said 33-year-old Jus Benson Balanag.

For his part, Maguindanao native Al-Mankadir Hadji Mohamad got down and dirty to gain valuable experience as part of the sports and competition group.

Despite being one of the youngest players in the event, the 2.03M (6’8”) point guard was quick to make his presence known with 14 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists against Finland in the opening game. With the performance, he became the second player in the 21st century since LeBron James to combine for more than 10 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists in their first-ever World Cup game.

Giddey had his best game of the competition in the win against Japan. He posted 26 points, shot 10 from 18 and added 11 assists and 5 rebounds and was selected TCL Player of the Game.

There were many young rising stars in contention for the award like Nikola Jovic, Paolo Banchero, Usman Garuba, Juan Nunez and Jean Montero but it was Giddey who proved himself the brightest of the best prospects at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.

Uy seeks hat trick at South Pacific

DAVAO City—Daniella Uy’s return to the attack mode has been a long time coming and that approach and mindset will again come to the fore as she launches her drive for a third straight Ladies Philippine Golf Tour victory in the ICTSI South Pacific Classic blasting off Tuesday at the South Pacific Golf Club here.

No one from among the compact 24-player field is coming into the P1 million championship with as much confidence and resolve than Uy, who snapped a run of stretch-run fold-ups that had cost her titles with victories at Forest Hills last June and at Del Monte last week.

“I’m confident I can win again,” said Uy after triumphing in the rain at Del Monte with a final round charge anchored on aggressive play.

She drew Harmie Constantino, Mikha Fortuna and Monica Mandario in the 8:10 a.m. flight on No. 1, after the foursome of amateurs Mafy Singson and Velinda Castil, Gretchen Villacencio and Sarah Ababa.

“At Forest Hills, it was more like of playing it safe. But in Del Monte, I was very confident of my drives. Since the course is rather long for us, I forced myself to hit the driver and it worked since it gave me more chances for birdies,” said the former Junior World champion, who scored her LPGT breakthrough at Riviera in 2021.

Serbia’s Novak Djokovic celebrates with his team after defeating Russia’s Daniil Medvedev during the US Open tennis tournament men’s singles nal match at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City. AFP

Chelsea Bien, Jus Benson Balanag, Al-Mankadir Hadji Mohamad

Josh Giddey

Coach Gordie Herbert and his German team celebrate theit tite romp. FIBA year when we compete in the European Championship and the Olympics. Schroder was just amazed at how fans in Okinawa, Japan, and the Philippines have appreciated their efforts.

Lascuña aims to derail Mondilla, keep crown

DAVAO City—Homegrown talent Tony Lascuña knows only too well how a streak works to boost one’s confidence and mental toughness and he vows to do everything he can to halt Clyde Mondilla from completing a three-peat on home turf.

But it will take more than inspiration from the local crowd to carry out the mission as Mondilla comes into the ICTSI South Pacific Classic unfolding today (Tuesday, Sept. 12) brimming with confidence following victories at the rolling Forest Hills in Antipolo last June and in his domain at Del Monte Golf Club just last Friday.

“Clyde (Mondilla) is on a roll. His confidence is high and he’s playing great golf. It will be tough to beat him but there’s always a chance,” said Lascuña, whose game somewhat went on a downswing after dominating the Caliraya Springs leg last April.

He tied for seventh at Luisita, wound up joint sixth at Valley, shared fifth place at Forest Hills and finished at tied ninth at Del Monte.

“I’ve been working on my putting. I know I would yield some yardage off the tee against the Tour’s long hitters but I can measure up with them in hybrid or iron play and wedge shots. But the key here is putting,” added Lascuña.

He knows. With the right strokes, he produced seven birdies en route to a course-record tying 66 at the South Pacific Golf Club, turning what had been a tight final round battle into a threestroke victory over Ira Alido and earning the bragging rights as the first winner of the event in 2019.

Still, Lascuña said it will be a tossup in the next four days with the loaded roster all aiming to nail a victory in the Philippine Golf Tour season about to end, including Asian Tour and Asian Development Tour regulars

Justin Quiban, Angelo Que and Lloyd Go, leg winners Reymon Jaraula, Rupert Zaragosa, Jhonnel Ababa and Alido, Dutch Guido van der Valk, and local aces Jay Bayron, Elmer Salvador, Elmer Saban, Ramil Bisera and Mhark Fernando, among others.

Quiban, for one, is due for a big finish, barely losing steam in the stretch at Del Monte, which he had led in one stretch before ending up solo third. Zaragosa, the runaway winner at Iloilo, also finished strong to place fourth, while Ababa, who topped the Villamor Philippine Masters, is out to make up for a final round struggle at Del Monte where he reigned four years ago.

Que and Go are also expected to contend coming off stints overseas with the duo likewise seeking to settle some unfinished business after finishing tied for second at Forest Hills and at Valley, respectively.

Fil-German Keanu Jahns, who has had a number of runner-up finishes in the circuit backed by Kampfortis Golf, the official apparel of the organizing Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc., is also back in the hunt seeking for the elusive win in the P2 million championship put up by ICTSI along with Cebu-based Japanese Gen Nagai and former PGT Asia leg winner Joenard Rates.

Lascuña hopes to get going early in the 7 a.m. group with Ferdie Aunzo, Anthony Fernando and Bayron, while Mondilla clashes with Zaragosa, Marvin Dumandan and Arnold Villacencio at 7:30 a.m., both on the first hole after the 7:20 a.m. flight of Que, Alido, Dino Villanueva and Paul Echavez.

Spain football chief Rubiales resigns over kiss controversy

BARCELONA—

Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales has resigned following fierce criticism for kissing Jenni Hermoso on the lips at the Women’s World Cup victory ceremony.

The already suspended Rubiales sent his resignation to the federation’s interim president, he said in an open letter, and also explained his decision to eventually step down in a television interview.

“I’m going to (resign), yes, because I cannot continue my work,” the 46-year-old told television show “Piers Morgan Uncensored”.

“(Family and friends) say to me, ‘Luis, you need to focus on your dignity and continue your life. If not you are going to damage people you love and the sport you love.’”

Rubiales sparked a worldwide backlash after forcibly kissing midfielder Hermoso during the medal ceremony following Spain’s World Cup triumph in Sydney on August 20.

After he refused to resign, FIFA provisionally suspended him for 90 days, while Spanish public prosecutors have filed a lawsuit against him for alleged sexual assault and coercion.

Hermoso, 33, had filed a complaint at the National Court on Tuesday, formally accusing Rubiales of sexual assault.

In an open letter published by Rubiales on Sunday night, he said he had informed the federation he was also stepping down as a vice-president of European football governing body UEFA.

“After the swift suspension carried out by FIFA, plus the rest of the procedures opened against me, it is evident that I will not be able to return to my position,” said Rubiales in the letter.

“Insisting on waiting and clinging to it is not going to contribute to anything positive, neither for the federation nor for Spanish football.

“Among other things, because there are powers that be that will prevent my return.”

Rubiales, who insists the kiss was consensual, said he did not want Spanish football to be hurt by “such a disproportionate campaign” against him.

“I have faith in the truth and I will do everything in my power so that it prevails,” he wrote.

Rubiales said his departure would contribute “stability” to the 2030 men’s World Cup bid in which Spain are involved.

As the pressure ramped up in recent weeks on him to quit, Rubiales’ mother Angeles Bejar went on a hunger strike in protest, locking herself in a church.

‘It’s Over’

Some Spanish politicians hailed Rubiales’ downfall.

“We are with you, Jenni, and with all women,” said second deputy prime minister Yolanda Diaz on social media platform X, formerly Twitter.

Spain’s equality minister Irene Montero wrote “It’s Over” on X, a slogan used by Hermoso and her fellow players in protest against Rubiales.

Over 80 players went on strike from the women’s team in protest after Rubiales’ fierce defensive speech following the incident, in which he had railed against “false feminism” and said he would not step down.

The players said they would not return until the leadership of the RFEF (Spanish football federation) was changed.

Controversial women’s coach Jorge Vilda was sacked on Tuesday in the fallout from the scandal.

The RFEF, under interim president Pedro Rocha, also apologised for the “totally unacceptable behaviour” of Rubiales.

Vilda’s former assistant Montserrat Tome is the new coach—it is the first time a woman has led the team.

Spain’s women’s team are due to play Nations League matches against Swe-

PBA’s 48th Season opening moved to Nov. 5

THE Philippine Basketball Association has moved the opening of its 48th season from Oct. 15 to Nov 5, 2023 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Executives of the league made the decision to give players who will be included in the national team for the Asian Games enough time to rest and recover.

“Hindi biro ang sakripisyo nila kaya dapat lang bigyan natin sila ng sapat na panahon para makapagpahinga,” explained PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial. “Gusto rin natin makapaghanda ang mga teams para sa darating na season.”

Nevertheless, Marcial said the Draft Combine and the Annual Draft will proceed as scheduled.

The Draft Combine is set on September 12 and 13 at the Gatorade Hoops Center in Mandaluyong City, while the Annual Draft will be held on September 17 at the Market Market in Taguig City.

A record 128 Aspirants have applied for the Draft, including 31 Fil-foreign

128 players apply for PBA Rookie Draft

A RECORD number of applicants made themselves available for PBA Rookie Draft.

By the end of the deadline of application on Sunday, a total of 128 players formally made it to the list for the Sept. 17 proceedings that serve as the league’s first official function for Season 48.

Among those who submitted their applications in the final week leading to the Sept. 10 deadline were Ricci Rivero, Schonny Winston, Zav Lucero, Brent Paraiso, Keith Datu, Brandon Bates, Luis Villegas, Ken Tuflin, Stephen Holt, Kim Aurin, Raphael Cu, Fran Yu, Henry Galinato, Dominick Fajardo, Kemark Carino, Sherwin Concepcion, James Kwekuteye, among others.

The huge number of applicants is a new PBA record, surpassing the previous mark of 97 tallied for the Season 46 draft. The 31 Oil-foreign applicants also went down as all-time high.

Chances of the final list being pruned down is possible depending on the outcome of the two-day Draft Combine set on Sept. 12 and 13 at the Hoops Gatorade Center.

Terrafirma will select first on draft day followed by Blackwater.

Rain or Shine takes the next two picks, NorthPort comes next, Phoenix, NLEX, and Meralco.

Converge picks consecutively at nos. 9 and 10, followed by NorthPort and Terrafirma.

den and Switzerland on September 22 and 26 respectively.

Legal action

Spanish prosecutors’ lawsuit against Rubiales will be analysed by a National Court judge.

If the judge accepts the request, a magistrate will be assigned to head an investigation which will end either with a recommendation for the case to go to trial or be dismissed.

Australian police told AFP on Monday they were willing to help with an investigation, but that a report had not yet been referred to them.

Hermoso, who plays for Mexican club Pachuca, has said the unwanted kiss left her feeling “vulnerable and like the victim of an assault”, with a statement on social media describing it as “an impulsive, macho act, out of place and with no type of consent on my part”. AFP

PSA Forum to discuss Asiad athletics, PBA

Esports

THE Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum resumes on Tuesday with the coming campaign of the national track and field team to the 19th Asian Games and Season 2 of PBA Esports Bakbakan leading the topic of discussion.

National coaches Isidro Del Prado and Dario De Rosas will talk about the bid of the Filipino tracksters in the Hangzhou Asiad, to be led by world no. 2 pole vaulter EJ Obiena, who is fresh from copping the silver medal in the recent World Athletics Championship in Hungary.

Meanwhile, the new season of PBA Esports makes up the first part of the 10:00 a.m. session at the conference hall of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

To talk about the matter are AC Valdenor, CEO of the organizing Dark League Studios, and brand manager Dan Cubangay.

The public sports program is presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, MILO, Philippine Olympic Committee, and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation.

PSA president Nelson Beltran, sports editor of the Philippine Star, enjoins members of the country’s oldest media organization to attend the session being livestreamed via the PSA Facebook page fb.com/PhilippineSportswritersAssociation and aired on a delayed basis over Radyo Pilipinas 2, which also shares it on its official Facebook page.

Picture shows a mural by Italian street artist Salvatore Benintende aka TvBoy which depicts Spanish Football Federation President Luis Rubiales kissing Spain mid elder Jenni Hermoso, in Barcelona. AFP

Willie Marcial

Zav Lucero

So, what comes next after the annual Creative Industries Month?

IN FEBRUARY of every year, the celebration of National Arts Month commences. During the merry month of May, National Heritage Month comes about. And every October, the National Indigenous Peoples Month takes place.

Now, this September is another month of celebration for the first Philippine Creative Industries. By virtue of Republic Act No. 11904, also known as the “Philippine Creative Industries Development Act,” signed in 2022, mandates the further prosperity of Philippine creative industries by protecting and strengthening the rights and capacities of creative firms, artists, artisans, creators, workers, indigenous cultural communities, content providers, and stakeholders in the creative industries.

Creative industries are classified into nine domains: Audiovisual Media, Digital Interactive Media, Creative Services, Design, Publishing and Printed Media, Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Traditional Cultural Expressions, and Cultural Sites. The law provides supplementary support to the specified domains that face numerous limitations that prevent their supplemental growth.

This year’s theme is Celebrating Filipino Creativity, Advancing Creative Philippines. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) celebrates the first Philippine Creative Industries Month 2023. The official launch of the event will be held at the Rizal Park Open Air Auditorium, Manila from 2:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. on September 17.

What to expect from the celebration are simultaneous workshops and a concert with the support of National Parks Development Committee and Concert @ the Park.

The workshops will tackle different topics for each specific domain such as: Learning Filipino through Wikaharian by Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. for the audiovisual media domain; How to start your own blockchain game project? by Dr. Albert Mulles of METATOKYO and Learning Through Minecraft Exhibit by Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for digital interactive media domain; Events Management Workshop for creative services domain; Shoemaking Workshop, Parol Making Workshop, Jewelry Making Workshop, and T-shirt Printing Workshop for design domain; and Basic Comics Workshop by Rustico Limosinero and Book Selling and Exhibit by Barasoain Kalinangan Foundation Inc. for publishing and printed media domain.

Also included are: Song Writing Workshop by Joey Ayala, Theater Acting Workshop by Nanding Josef, Dance Workshop, Puppetry Workshop by the Samahan ng mga Papetir ng Pilipinas for Performing Arts Domain; Pottery Workshop by the OdangPutikPottery Painting Workshop by the Egai Fernandez, Basic Photography Workshop by the Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation for visual arts domain; Baybayin Workshop, Pabalat Making, Ilocos Empanada Making, and Traditional Weaving Demo for Traditional Cultural Expression Domain; and NCCA Papercraft Series and Exhibit for cultural sites domain.

The featured artists in the Live Concert are Bayang Barrios, Colot it Red, Halili Cruz Dance Company, J Crisis, Joey Ayala, Johnoy Danao, Kammerchor Manila, Sarah Straschko, National Ballroom Ensemble, Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, Sindaw Philippines, Teatro ni Juan, and The Nightingales

The celebration will include Perya ng Sining and Bukal ng Galing events in Iloilo and Bacolod, culminating in a September 29 Summit. This Summit provides a platform for government officials, industry leaders, professionals, and students to exchange ideas and foster a vibrant creative community, addressing key themes like Creative Economy, Disruption, Design, Governance, and Spaces.

After all the workshops, performances, and summit inputs have been completed and submitted, what comes next? Will the Creative Industries Law benefit heavily taxed Philippine motion picture and television industries? Will it reduce ticket prices for movies and theater performances? Will it assist in promoting local products to attract audiences? Will it encourage large corporations to financially support local films and theater productions rather than just engaging in exchange deals?

Can this law limit the number of foreign acts performed in Manila concerts? Can it influence radio stations to play more original Filipino songs and reduce airtime for foreign songs?

These activities, held annually during National Arts, Heritage, and Indigenous Peoples Month, are no longer new. They have become commonplace. So, what happens next?

Barbie Forteza, David Licauco step into uncharted territory

LAST night, Barbie Forteza and David Licauco gave TV viewers a sneak peek into Maging Sino Ka Man, the TV adaptation of the 1991 romantic comedy action film.

In a bold departure from their usual fare, this love team ventured into uncharted territory, bravely taking on distinctive and iconic characters that shattered all preconceptions.

The series follows Monique, a wealthy heir ess in peril, and Carding, a caring thief. Fate brings them together, revealing a shared past that could unite or divide them.

said Barbie. David highlighted how challenging it is to portray Carding, “I didn’t have a hard time with the action scenes because I always work out, and I’m an athlete. But memorizing the action scenes, it’s not that easy. Also, I’m used to playing roles of wealthy characters, but with Carding, it’s really a 180-degree turnaround. So, that’s what became a challenge for me.”

Meanwhile, Barbie admitted to feeling nervous yet excited about this big project. According to her, “I am honored and grateful to have been entrusted with a remake of such an iconic film. It’s a

good kind of pressure because my characters are tweaked to fit me, so I’m looking forward to seeing the outcome of our show.”

David, on the other hand, tries to take it day by day and just does his best all the time. “I feel grateful to GMA for this opportunity. This all happened because of Maria Clara At Ibarra, so I just want to thank Direk Zig Dulay and everyone who believed in me. And now it’s Maging Sino Ka Man with Barbie. It’s always such a treat to work with her. Gusto ko ring pasalamatan ‘yung fans. Because of them, nakuha ko ang role na ito.” Joining Barbie and David are Juancho Triviño, Faith Da Silva, Mikoy Morales, Rain Matienzo, E.R. Ejercito, Jeric Raval, Jean Saburit, Juan Rodrigo, Antonio Aquitania, Jean Garcia, Al Tantay, and Tonton Gutierrez Maging Sino Ka Man airs Monday to Friday at 8:00 p.m. on GMA Telebabad and at 9:40 p.m. on GTV.

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During the media conference for the series, Barbie shared her preparations for playing dual roles as Monique, a passionate artist, and as Dino, her boyish disguise.

“I watched one of my favorite actresses, Hilary Swank, to get a reference for the role of Dino. Then I thought of making Monique more sophisticated and liberated to emphasize the difference between the two characters. I always like to challenge myself to make my characters more complex yet relatable and full of depth,”

Spotify launches ‘Kalye X’ to celebrate Pinoy hip-hop music

By Angelica Villanueva

SPOTIFY is advancing its mission to empower artists’ creativity by promoting more than just hip-hop music but also its culture and beyond it.Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the world of hip-hop, the streaming app recently launched “Kalye X,” the latest initiative that is dedicated to collaborations between artists, fans, and the community on the local hip-hop scene.

“‘Kalye X’ is an initiative we launched to support hip-hop, and it’s just the beginning, meant to bring the kalye hip-hop brand to life,” shared Kossy Ng, Head of Music for Spotify Asia.

As part of the campaign, Spotify tapped established and up-andcoming local hip-hop artists from across the country to release a series of Spotify Singles that showcase the depth and diversity of Pinoy hip-hop.

Ng added that as more music lovers continue to patronize Pinoy hip-hop, it is important for them to strengthen local hip-hop artists in sharing their craft with their fans “in a deeper way, as well as push the boundaries of Pinoy hip-hop music culture.”

“As a way to bring Spotify’s ‘Kalye Hip-Hop’ playlist to life, Kalye X aims to amplify the everyday stories and experiences, told by passionate artists and communities,” she continued.

From August to October, Spotify will be releasing three singles featuring artists representing the sound of three major islands in the country—Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

To kick off Spotify’s initiative, Midnasty and Cookie$ will be presenting their track as an ode to

the vibrant Visayan scene. Meanwhile, DJ Medmessiah together with the group Morobeats reimagines the sound of Mindanao hip-hop with their respective track. Lastly, representing the streets of Manila, renowned rapper Gloc 9 will be joined by Hero and Ramdiss to pull off a three-way collaboration for the last Spotify Single.

Since the launching of Spotify’s ‘Kalye Hip-Hop’ playlist in 2018, Ng explained that local hip-hop songs had witnessed an impressive 700

percent growth in local streams in the past five years. Adding to it is the listenership of Pinoy hip-hop also grew globally at 600 percent strong with top markets including the United States, Canada, and Australia.

To celebrate these milestones, as well as the inaugural event, hip-hop artists Al James and Cookie$ joined Ng to talk about their thoughts on the vibrancy of the Pinoy hip-hop scene.

Filipino rapper and songwriter Al James gave credits to the Pinoy rappers for inspiring him to pursue his own dreams, whom he described as his mentors.

“Just by listening to them, they became my mentors. They passed on the energy of Pinoy hip-hop to us. I’m proud of what and where Pinoy hip-hop is now,” said Al James. “Parang sabi ni Cookie$ kanina, na-represent niya ‘yung Cebuano. Kaya ng Cebuano, Tagalog, tumagos sa ibang bansa,” he added.

Meanwhile, Cebuano artist Cookie$ talked about how hip-hop helped him in representing his roots.

“It is important to put Bisaya culture on the map and inspire others looking to follow their passion. Spotify has been continuing to help me and other artists elevate Filipino talent while remaining true to our roots and distinct artistries,” Cookie$ stated.

Spotify’s “Kalye X” launch brought together hip-hop artists and the community to celebrate the potential of Pinoy hip-hop, with live performances from Midnasty, Morobeats, and Al James. Inspired by the Kalye Hip-Hop playlist, the interactive graffiti street art installation by Kayo Cosio and Trip63 breathed life into the venue, while the dance battle featuring the Philippine All-Stars with music by DJ Jazz Zamora displayed hip-hop’s boundless energy.

Spotify’s “Kalye X” kicks off its journey with the launch of three Spotify Singles events. The first took place in Cebu on August 26, it will be followed by Davao on September 23, and finally, Manila on October 28. During these events, artists will debut and perform their latest tracks as part of the inaugural Spotify “Kalye X” concert series.

Pangasinan 4th District Rep. and Philippine Creative Industries Month champion Christopher de Venecia

Today’s generation of Filipino hip-hop artists grace the unveiling of Spotify’s ‘Kalye X’ Filipino rapper and singer Al James

Morobeats performs her hit tracks at Spotify’s ‘Kalye X’ event

Representing the island of Visayas for the Kalye X tour is Cebuano artist Cookie$

Barbie Forteza (left) and David Licauco are back in the Kapuso primetime with ‘Maging Sino Ka Man’

Barbie Forteza portrays the roles of Monique, a passionate artist, and Dino, her boyish disguise

David Licauco showcases another side of him in playing Carding in the TV series

Nickie Wang Editor Angelica Villanueva , Writer E-mail: lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

LIFE

The official camera of fun

By Nickie Wang

GoPro has solidified itself as the go-to choice for adventure enthusiasts. These compact, rugged, and incredibly versatile cameras are purpose-built to withstand extreme conditions, making them the ideal companions for actionpacked moments.

Ron Ng, GoPro’s Senior Specialist in Global Training and Content Community, highlighted why the brand remains the top choice for thrill seekers.

“GoPro has the capability to capture the excitement and thrill of exhilarating activities that’s why it’s the official camera of fun,” Ng told attendees on September 8 at the official launch of the brand’s newest flagship camera, GoPro Hero12 Black, in the Philippines.

Priced at P24,990, it boasts improved power management for up to 2x longer runtimes, stunning HDR video in 5.3K and 4K, Bluetooth audio support (including Apple AirPods), enhanced HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization, and a range of new features for both beginners and professionals.

“This feature proves invaluable for vloggers, scene narrators, and those who wish to control their Hero12 Black remotely using voice commands. It features many new, powerful pro-minded capabilities that will also benefit more casual users,” Ng added.

The Hero12 Black also features GP-Log with available Look-Up Tables (LUTs), offering users greater control and advanced color grading capabilities during the post-production process.

Wireless timecode synchronization is now possible across an unlimited number of Hero12 Black cameras. This makes multicamera editing a breeze, especially for users of popular editing software like Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere.

Furthermore, the camera’s encoding has been optimized to deliver smaller file sizes without compromising image quality, ensuring that your content remains visually impressive while being more storage-efficient. These enhancements collectively make the Hero12 Black even more versatile and powerful for content creators and enthusiasts alike.

According to GoPro CEO and Founder Nicholas Woodman, the brand’s latest flagship camera represents the culmination of GoPro’s 21 years of experience and its dedication to enabling individuals to capture and share their lives in an immersive, dream-like manner.

This approach aims to transport both the user and their audience back to the moment, allowing them to relive cherished experiences with vivid detail.

“Hero12 Black resets the bar for immersive life-capture,” Woodman said in a statement.

Elevate your smartphone experience

IN AUGUST, TECNO, the trailblazing technology brand, unveiled the POVA 5 Series, and now, it’s taking innovation to the next level with the launch of the POVA 5 Pro 5G.

Priced at P9,999, the POVA 5 Pro 5G retains the inventive Mecha Design of its predecessor but adds a new tech-infused Interactive LED design. It’s powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6080 5G processor, boasts a 68W Ultra Charge, features Upgraded Heat Dissipation, and sports a 6.78” 120Hz Refresh Rate FHD+ Display.

Available in two captivating color options, Silver Fantasy and Dark Illusion, fans can now purchase the POVA 5 Pro 5G through TECNO’s official e-commerce platforms on TikTok Shop, Lazada, and Shopee. For those who prefer the in-store experience, it will hit retail shelves starting today.

The POVA 5 Pro 5G introduces an innovative Interactive LED Design, reimagining the 3D Mecha Design with a Colorful LED Ambi- ent Light Design. Using advanced nano-micro-engraving lithography this upgrade creates a three-dimensional sense of shadow, breathing life into the device, especially gaming sessions. The nine-color RGB interactive light strip produces dynamic visual effects, synchronizing with calls, charging, and even gaming actions, infusing energy and vibrancy into daily life. Under the hood, the MediaTek Dimensity 6080 5G processor ensures effortless 5G performance. It’s a 6nm powerhouse that not only offers lightning-fast gaming but also features Smart 5G 2.0 for intelligent power consumption management, switching between 4G and 5G as needed.

With up to 256GB ROM and 8+8 Extended RAM, the POVA 5 Pro 5G delivers flagship-level storage, significantly improving app startup times and multitasking capabilities.

TECNO remains true to its commitment to giving its users an uninterrupted smartphone experience with its POVA 5 Pro 5G

By Joyce Pangco Pañares

TRAVEL delays, whether we like it or not, have become part of the new normal. Whether caused by a lightning strike or a natural disaster or a power glitch, it is a painful experience that most passengers go through when their flights are disrupted.

“People who travel business class or first class for their international flights at least have access to the lounge. Therefore, they have at least a slightly more comfortable waiting experience. But 95 percent of the people who travel economy don’t have access to that comfort by virtue of the ticket they have,” Oona Insurance founder and Group Chief Executive Officer Abhishek Bhatia said in an interview.

With this customer pain point in mind, Oona, which is operating in the country through a joint venture with Insular Life Assurance Co. Ltd., one of the Philippines’ oldest life insurance companies, launched its innovative Smart Flight Delay Insurance (https://smart-flightdelay.myoona.ph/travel-delay/).

The massive 5000mAh Battery ensures hours of uninterrupted smartphone use, complemented by the 68W Ultra Charge, making it the fastest-charging smartphone in its price range. From zero to 100 percent in just 45 minutes, you can enjoy the POVA 5 Pro 5G experience all day.

Battery Lab 3.0, Bypass Charge, Charging Port Monitoring, and STS Secure Battery Technology enhance battery performance and safety.

For gamers, the device offers a visual treat with its 6.78” FHD+ Screen and 120Hz High Refresh Rate. It’s optimized for popular games like Mobile Legend: Bang Bang (MLBB), Free Fire, and PUBG, providing high frame rates and immersive haptic feedback.

To keep the device cool during intense gaming, it features the upgraded Vapor Chamber Cooling System and Panther Engine 3.0, reducing power consumption while maintaining performance. Dual Speakers with Hi-Res and DTS-certification deliver an immersive audio experience.

For dedicated gamers, there’s also a Free Fire Special Edition that offers customizations in design and software, creating an unforgettable gaming experience.

TECNO’s commitment to gamers extends to the GGWP Tournament, where the champion team can win P150,000 and five POVA smartphones.

For more information, visit its official website at https://www.tecno-mobile.com/ph

For only P149, or the price of one’s favorite iced coffee drink, Oona’s Smart Flight Delay Insurance – the first of its kind in the Philippines – alleviates the experience with an instant lounge voucher the moment a delay in one’s international flight is announced.

“Just by adding about $3 extra, you’re essentially saying that if the flight gets delayed, I’m not going to have a harrowing experience at the airport. I can get access to what the Premium Plus customers have access to,” Bhatia said.

This revolutionary and innovative insurance service allows paperless and instantly accessible purchase options on its

website (myoona.ph), or via Whatsapp and its chatbot, all with GenAI capabilities.

“The last thing you want to do when your flight is delayed is to fill out lengthy forms and say, ‘Insurance company, please pick up the phone.’ So that task is upon our shoulders. If your flight is delayed by an hour, we will push the lounge voucher to your phone, which you can

readily use,” Bhatia said.

The P149 insurance covers not just the departure, but up to four flights in the itinerary, including return flights, with a P10,000 cover for personal accidents resulting in either injuries or death. And if a person is traveling with family or friends, up to three additional persons can be added for only P119 each.

Insurance Commissioner Reynaldo Regalado, who attended Oona’s launch on September 7, hailed the innovative product.

“There are the kinds of products we want to see in the market. They are responsive to customer needs,” Regalado said.

For Bhatia, Oona takes pride in its tech-driven, innovative product that makes it different from other players in the market.

“We firmly believe that when the customer needs us is the moment of truth. The moment of truth is the claim,” he said.