Manila Standard - 2023 September 24 - Sunday

CHINA ‘HYPOCRITICAL’ OVER WPS ISSUE—GIBO

AS PH, US, JAPAN CRAFT ‘WORK PLAN’ FOR INDO-PACIFIC

DEFENSE Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. chided China on Saturday over its “propaganda lines” accusing the Philippines and the BRP Sierra Madre, Manila’s outpost in the Ayungin Shoal, of marine damage.

“The statement of China that the grounded Sierra Madre is causing irrevocable harm is to put it as politely as possible, hypocritical,” Teodoro Jr. said in a statement.

“Talk about the pot calling the kettle black! China continues to damage the West Philippine Sea by its illegal reclamation activities in the South China Sea,” the Department of Na-

tional Defense (DND) chief added. This developed as the Philippines, the United States, and Japan will craft a “work plan” that would advance their trilateral cooperation, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Saturday, as the three states explore ways to further promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, US State Secretary Antony Blinken, and Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko convened the second trilateral ministerial meeting among the three states on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Sept. 23. DFA Spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza said the ministers “will come up with a work plan” after discussing possible activities under the trilateral cooperation.

The US State Department said the officials also agreed to “continue to call out behavior that is inconsistent with international law,” including

‘CHINESE MAFIA INVOLVED IN PH RICE SMUGGLING’

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) is looking into information that a “Chinese mafia” is supposedly involved in smuggling rice into the country.

China’s recent actions near Ayungin Shoal that interfered with the Philippines’ lawful exercise of high seas freedom of navigation.”

The Philippines’ economic cooperation with the United States must keep pace with steadily growing defense relations, the country’s top diplomat said.

At an event hosted by the Asia Society in New York, USA on Sept. 22, DFA chief Manalo reiterated President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr’s call to ensure that the US-Philippine partnership is relevant and responsive to the current and emerging realities in the region.

Charles Dantes

XI JINPING OPENS 19TH ASIAN GAMES IN GLITTERING HANGZHOU

HANGZHOU, China—Chinese President Xi Jinping declared the 19th Asian Games open at a glittering ceremony in Hangzhou on Saturday, kickstarting a sporting behemoth that boasts more athletes than the Olympics.

The Philippines got its campaign off the right foot as the women’s national football team hurdled Hong Kong, 3-1, on Friday night.

Bannered by its FIFA Women’s World Cup core, the Filipinas improved to 1-0 in Group E while Hong

After being delayed by a year due to China’s strict zero-COVID regime, more than 12,000 competitors from 45 nations and territories across Asia and the Middle East are in the eastern city to compete in 40 sports.

Xi is scheduled to open proceedings officially in one of the country’s most prosperous regions, in front of invited guests including Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

But rain could put a dampener on the occasion, with persistent drizzle lingering.

Assad—on his first visit to China

SPICE OF LIFE.

A vendor displays ‘sili labuyo’ (chili peppers) that retail for P400 per kilo – about half the prevailing market rate -- at the Kadiwa ng Pangulo of the Bagong Pilipinas

since war erupted in Syria in 2011— will join leaders from ally Cambodia, Kuwait, and Nepal, among others at Hangzhou’s Olympic stadium, state media said. The Games are “likely to be China’s post-pandemic soft power exercise in the fully packed stadium with the presence of political and business leaders in Asia,” Jung-Woo Lee, sport policy expert at the University of Edinburgh, told AFP. But they have already been rocked by a row between New Delhi and China, with a trip to Hangzhou by India’s

sports minister cancelled on Friday. It followed three women martial arts fighters from the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh claiming they were denied accreditation, a move China disputed. The northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh is claimed almost in full by Beijing, which calls it “South Tibet”.

China’s status as a sporting destination took a severe hit during the first three years of the pandemic, when snap lockdowns and travel rules saw almost all international events cancelled in the country. AFP

BAGONG PILIPINAS SERVICE FAIR BEGINS

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday led the simultaneous launching of the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) to help deliver government services across the country.

“This program is just one of the first steps taken by the government to give Filipinos new hope and a fresh start,” the President said during the launching in Nabua, Camarines Sur.

The Serbisyo Fair was launched simultaneously in Laoag, Ilocos Norte for Luzon; Tolosa town in Leyte for Visayas; and in the Mu -

nicipality of Monkayo, Davao de Oro for Mindanao.

Presidential son and Ilocos Norte Rep. Sandro Marcos led the BPSF car avan for Luzon, while Speaker Martin Romualdez led the Visayas contin gent in Leyte.

Special Assistant to the Presi dent Anton Lagdameo led the BPSF opening in Poblacion Monkayo, Davao de Oro.

“Although our islands are apart, we are united by one spirit and one dream: a New Philippines for the New Filipino,” the President said. Charles Dantes

During a Saturday news forum in Quezon City, BOC Director Vernie Enciso said they have received reports regarding the issue.

“Either they are on the side of financing, distribution, or other sides, they are present in many levels of agricultural smuggling. The Bureau of Customs is looking into all of these,” he added.

But lawyer Marlon Agaceta, BOC’s chief of staff, said it was hard to determine the source of the smuggled rice and who were behind this.

Meanwhile, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday said the country does not have a problem with its rice supply, only with issues related to its distribution.

At an event in Camarines Sur, the President also said government’s price control on regular and wellmilled rice might be reduced as palay harvests begin across the country.

Mr. Marcos, the concurrent Agriculture Secretary, noted that market forces would be at work due to the new rice harvests, pulling down the cost of the staple Filipino commodity.

Charles Dantes

ASIAD BEGINS. Performers dance across a digital projection of a pond scene at the ‘Big Lotus’ Olympic Stadium in Hangzhou, China, as the 19th Asian Games opened on Saturday night. Chinese President Xi Jinping shakes hands with International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach to begin the games, while the Philippines’ EJ Obiena and Margielyn Didal wave miniature flags as they lead the Filipino athletes in the opening ceremonies (inset photos). AFP with IOC and POC Photos

Serbisyo Fair at Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges in Nabua town on Saturday. Joan Bondoc

LOCKED IN. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez listens to the speech of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as he leads the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) launch for the Visayas region in Tolosa, Leyte on Saturday (see story below). Ver Noveno Kong slid to 0-1.

NO FISHING BAN, JUST AVOID

SITES, SAYS MARCOS

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday clarified that he would not impose a fishing ban on breeding sites, saying he was merely requesting fisherfolk to avoid areas where there is natural propagation.

Mr. Marcos said this in an interview after the distribution of rice to 2,000 beneficiaries in Iriga City, Camarines Sur.

“I did not explain it well. I was not talking about a fishing ban. What I’m saying is, where the

breeding areas of the fish are, let us not fish there so that the fish could multiply. But there is no fishing ban,” he said.

Mr. Marcos said he would not impose a ban but merely wants to restrict fishing in breeding grounds

to increase the fish population.

“People could not make a living with a ban. But we have to increase the fish population. I was talking to the fishermen earlier. They said their catch has really decreased,” he said.

In an interview during a rice distribution activity in Zamboanga City on Tuesday, Mr. Marcos said he is considering imposing several restrictions to secure the country’s fish supply.

The President emphasized the need to address overfishing and boost the country’s aquaculture and

MALAYSIA BUILDING ON KEY AREAS WITH PH

lamented the sector’s challenges, including low catch, because of the destruction of fish breeding areas.

He assured the government is implementing programs to put up more cold storage facilities to prevent spoilage, as he noted that up to 30 percent of fish catch is degraded or damaged.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources earlier said it aims to boost the country’s fisheries sector to contribute to economic growth.

Charles Dantes

‘NEARLY HALF OF PRIVATE WORKERS PAID MINIMUM WAGE OR LESS’

Maricel V. Cruz

ART, RAIN OR SHINE.

Despite a persistent drizzle, a young woman and other artists decorate a wall along Malvar Street in Puerto Princesa City in Palawan, the country’s nearest metropolis to the tension-filled West Philippine Sea. Puerto Princesa PIO

A TOTAL of 2.29 million out of 13 million workers in the private sector receive below the minimum wage, Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas said, as she disclosed 3.82 million are also receiving just the minimum wage.

“This means 46.8 percent or almost half of all paid private sector workers are being paid below minimum or are minimum wage earners,”

Brosas disclosed during the House plenary debates on the proposed 2024 budget of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

Quezon Rep. David Suarez, who sponsored the Department of Labor and Employment’s budget, confirmed these figures.

“Those who claim exemptions from the minimum wage, most of them are enterprises that are just starting. Most of these are what we call micro, small and medium enter-

ZUBIRI: SENATE TO PASS 4 LEDAC BILLS ON MONDAY

THE Senate is set to approve 17 measures that include four priority legislations of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) and 12 local bills for the upgrade of state universities and colleges (SUCs).

“Apart from the budget deliberations in the committee, the Senate is doing its best to deliberate and pass important measures and see their enactment into law to benefit millions of Filipinos,” Senate President Miguel Zubiri said in a statement Saturday.

“In fact, on Monday, we will approve four measures that are part of our LEDAC commitments. And so far, we are on track to meeting our deadlines because, by the end of this year, we hope to approve all 20 LEDAC priority measures pending in the Senate,” he added.

For starters, Zubiri said the Senate approved last week a total of five bills of national application on second reading: Senate Bill No. 2001 or the New Philippine Passport Act; SB 1846 or the Internet Transactions

Act of 2023; SB 2224 or the Ease of Paying Taxes Act; SB 2028 or An Act Recognizing the Octogenarians, Nonagenarians, and Centenarians; and SB 2233 or the Public Private Partnership Act.

“These measures will be up for final reading on Monday. The deliberations on these bills have been exhaustive and I am confident that we did a good job of crafting these pieces of legislation, the efforts and expertise of the legislative staff in the Senate included,” the Senate chief said.

prises (MSMEs). If we set the salaries at levels higher than they can afford, it could lead to these companies’ closure,” Suarez explained.

Still, Brosas appealed to Congress for a budget increase for labor inspectors under 2024 national budget.

The DOLE currently has 1,210 labor inspectors nationwide who completed the inspection of 23,420 private establishments within the first half of the year.

According to Suarez, 93.78 percent are compliant with labor laws and standards. But the number of inspected establishments is only less than a fourth of the total 102,000 businesses nationwide.

He urged DOLE to be more proactive in addressing labor salary issues.

“Don’t wait for directives from the (Labor) secretary. Be independent, be proactive enough to work on labor salary issues in your respective regions,” Suarez said.

MALAYSIA is expecting enhanced engagements with the Philippines as it renewed its commitment to develop key areas including the halal industry, agriculture, green technology, and digitalization.

At the Malaysian National Day reception in Makati City on Friday night, Malaysian Ambassador Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino said the two nations are at a point where their bilateral relations are “at its peak.”

“Remarkably, this is the year where both our leaders officially met twice within a span of not less than six months. The Philippines was one of the first countries that invited Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim right after he was elected,” Castelino said.

He shared that at the time it was proposed, Malacañang agreed in less than 24 hours, indicating how “special” the relationship is between the two leaders.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. hosted a state visit for Prime Minister Anwar on March 1 to 2. Barely four months after, Anwar hosted a state visit for Marcos on July 25 to 27.

“This, to me, is truly special –and I am happy to be a part of the history to witness this momentous elevation of our country’s relationship. The two leaders agreed to focus collaborations on halal industry, agriculture, digitalization, and green technology,” he said.

“I can say that today, our bilateral relations are at its peak.”

Charles Dantes

MOLOTOV BLAST DAMAGES CARS PARKED AT NAIA

By Joel E. Zurbano

AUTHORITIES are investigating a molotov explosion that occurred at the parking lot of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport-Terminal 3 in Pasay City on Saturday morning.

Police said no one was reported hurt, but the incident caused damage to at least three vehicles parked in the area, including a Toyota Fortuner (NCL 6610), Toyota Rush (NEV 2485), and Mazda Tribute (NBI 716).

Upon receiving information about the explosion, police on duty officer Cpl. Manel Supan immediately responded to verify the incident. He reported the matter to the Tactical Operation Center officer and informed the station duty officers who immediately secured the area.

The Manila International Airport Authority management also sought assistance from the Philippine National Police - Aviation Security and Canine, and Special Operation Units to conduct paneling and clearing operations in the area and requested a crime scene investigation.

Police units responded immediately and conducted SOPs by securing the area and increasing police presence within the perimeter of the open parking where the improvised molotov bomb was believed to have come from.

SALARY PROTEST. Members of the Education Workers’ Alliance for Greater and Equitable Salary (Educ WAGES) raise fists after signing their Unity Statement to show solidarity in pushing for a substantial salary increase for education workers at the UP Diliman Science Auditorium in Quezon City on Saturday. Manny Palmero

FISHY BUSINESS. Fish vendors at the Bulungan fish port in Parañaque City get ready for customers on Saturday. According to Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources spokesman Nazario Briguera, local governments can implement a fishing ban in their areas to control overfishing. Norman Cruz

HABAGAT RAINS REMOVE SMOG OVER METRO MANILA

THE smog that enveloped Metro Manila on Friday has disappeared, the weather bureau reported on Saturday.

According to Juanito Galang, chief of the Weather Division of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the downpour caused by the southwest monsoon or “habagat” and low-pressure area experienced Friday night until Saturday morning has weakened the smog.

“So right now, we can see... that it has weakened a bit or is clearing a bit. It rained heavily this morning or last night. That’s a factor that

COPS CLEARED IN ALLEGED CRUELTY CASE VS. ACTIVIST

the wind is moving a bit compared to yesterday,” he said at the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City. “So gradually, we will notice that it is getting clear here in Metro Manila.”

The smog that covered many parts of Metro Manila and some areas of Central Luzon was also not caused by volcanic smog or vog from Taal volcano, Galang added.

Technically, he said, it was called photochemical smog that comes from pollutants, such as emissions of

MORNING DOWNPOUR FLOODS NCR AREAS, EDSA IMPASSABLE

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reported on Saturday that the northbound lane of EDSA in front of the Armed Forces of the Philippines was flooded and impassable to light vehicles like cars and motorcycles.

The MMDA also reported flooding in the following areas: Edsa SB Panay Ave towards Mo. Ignacia; EDSA Kamuning Northbound and Southbound; East Ave. Westbound before EDSA; and C5 Eastwood SB. Other flooded areas include Balintawak Market; España; and G. Araneta, among others.

Flood in some roads was gutter deep and heavy traffic was also reported.

The weather bureau meanwhile reported that two low pressure areas (LPAs) and the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) will bring scattered rain showers over parts of the country

over the weekend PAGASA said one LPA was estimated to be located at 85 kilometers northeast of Infanta, Quezon at 3 a.m. The other LPA was estimated to be located at 125 kilometers west of Iba, Zambales.

The Southwest Monsoon or Habagat will be affecting Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, PAGASA said.

Metro Manila, the rest of Luzon, Visayas, and Zamboanga Peninsula will have cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms. The rest of Mindanao will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies, PAGASA said.

PAGASA further said the rest of Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao will experience light to moderate winds moving southwestward while coastal waters will be slight to moderate.

vehicles and industries.

The geographical location of Metro Manila is also a factor, he said.

On Thursday and Friday, the vog that covered the volcano has cleared, Bacolcol said, “but this will be a recurring threat. As long as the Taal Volcano is spewing sulfur dioxide, the threat will always be there.”

Galang reminded the public to wear a face mask if such a phenomenon recurs.

In Batangas, local officials are reportedly studying placing the province under a state of emergency as towns deal with the thick volcanic smog.

Vice Governor Mark Leviste said Saturday that the state of emergency

would help local government tap into their disaster and emergency funds.

Based on its most recent vog advisory posted on Thursday afternoon, Phivolcs said volcanic smog has lingered over the Taal Region “since the first week of September.”

Volcanologists on Saturday meanwhile warned that while volcanic fog or vog from have dissipated, it may recur anytime due to the continued activity of the lake volcano. Director Teresito Bacolcol of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said that of Saturday morning the vog that enveloped the volcano’s caldera was gone. Maricel Cruz

THE Office of the Ombudsman has junked the complaints filed by activist Reina Nasino against jail and police officials over their alleged “cruelty.”

The respondents included the heads of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), the Manila Police District (MPD), the Manila City Jail Female Dormitory (MCJFD), and several police and jail officers.

They are accused of mental or psychological torture and maltreatment of prisoners, among other allegations, a GMA News report said, The Ombudsman, however, ruled that there was no substantial evidence against the respondents.

“The criminal and administrative charges against all respondents are dismissed for lack of probable cause and substantial evidence, respectively,” the Ombudsman ruling, quoted by GMA News, said.

MCJFD Officer-in-Charge Ignacia Monteron, mea while, got a penalty of “reprimand”for violating the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009.

“This Office finds that respondent Monteron violated Section 1 in relation to Section 21 of the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009, for failing to establish a lactation station within the MCJFD,” the Ombudsman’s ruling read.

“As to the other charges, there is no probable cause that any of the respondents committed the crimes charged. They neither imposed a punishment not authorized by the regulations nor inflicted (authorized) punishment in a cruel and humiliating manner,” added the Ombudsman’s decision.

LAWMAKER URGES GOV’T TO HASTEN 4PS CASH AID

By Maricel V. Cruz

REP. Wilbert T Lee of AGRI party-list group has urged the immediate distribution of the cash grants for compliant Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries that were put on hold since last year.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) earlier halted the distribution of the cash grants due to their questionable delisting process.

During the plenary deliberation of the 2024 proposed budget of the DSWD, Lee sought clarification on whether the cash grants of the 1.1 million delisted families will be provided “retroactively” to all compliant beneficiaries affected by the sudden delisting of the DSWD.

“What we want to clarify: For those compliant beneficiaries who have been held, and assessed whether as poor or non-poor, will they be paid retroactively; Can their cash grant be given from 2022 or from the last time they were given a cash grant up to 2023?” Lee asked.

“And from the time they are re-assessed as nonpoor, we must give them a notice, 30 to 45 days, before we stop their payout so that they can prepare and be given an adequate transition before being removed from the program.”

SENATORS LAMENT BILL-SWALLOWING SECURITY WORKER AT NAIA

By Joel E. Zurbano

SENATORS expressed concerns about travelers’ safety following the recent incident at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, where an Office of Transportation Security (OTS) employee was caught swallowing stolen money.

“Sadly, this is not the first time such an incident has occurred at the airport, and it highlights the prevalence of criminal activities that need to be addressed,” said Senator Joel Villanueva.

“To attract more tourists to the Philippines, the airport must provide a happy (positive) experience, not a horror story,” he said.

Villanueva asked the Department of Transportation to conduct a thorough investigation, and if

found guilty, the OTS personnel involved in the crime should be fired immediately.

Airport authorities said earlier they are looking at the possibility that a syndicate is behind incidents of theft at the airport.

Senator Grace Poe said it is crucial to identify any accomplices involved in the incident to curb the airport’s criminal mafia. She said the airport security screening personnel should undergo retraining and assessment, and applicants should be evaluated to avoid hiring thieves.

Poe said the CCTV may not reveal the entire story, and reports suggest that other airport personnel in the area ordered the SSO to do that to avoid detection.

The airport security office should vet applicants and re-interview employees to assess their qualifications and performance, she said.

OTS administrator Ma. O Aplasca meanwhile said the OTS is “enhancing” its baggage inspection procedure to prevent theft by screening personnel Aplasca told TeleRadyo Serbisyo that these are being implemented after a baggage screener at the NAIA was caught on camera apparently swallowing bills pilfered from a passenger’s bag. He added screening officers are not allowed to open bags without the passenger watching.

OTS has also asked the Manila International Airport Authority to install a security camera for the inspection area.

PADRE PIO DEVOTEES. Catholic devotees flock to venerate a relic of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, commonly known as “Padre Pio” during the celebration of the Feast Day of Padre Pio. The relic is a handkerchief soaked with his sweat hours before he died. Danny Pata

STUCK. Photo shows Northbound vehicles stranded in front of Gate 3 of Camp Aguinaldo Quezon City due to

waist-deep floods caused by the enhanced southwest monsoon on Saturday. Manny Palmero

IN BRIEF

LIBYA AID GAB SLATED IN FLOOD-HIT DERNA

LIBYA’S flood-devastated port city of Derna will host an international conference next month to aid reconstruction efforts, authorities in the east of the divided country said Friday.

There was no immediate reaction from the internationally recognised government in Tripoli nor any details on how the rival administration would accommodate delegates in a city where entire neighbourhoods have been swept away.

A tsunami-sized flash flood broke through two ageing dams upstream from Derna after a hurricane-strength storm lashed the area on September 10, sweeping thousands of people into the sea.

“The government invites the international community to participate in the conference planned for October 10 in Derna to present modern, rapid projects for the reconstruction of the city,” the eastern administration said in a statement.

It said the conference was being held in “response to the demands of residents of the stricken city of Derna and other towns that suffered damage” during the flooding. AFP

RUSSIA LIMITING FUEL EXPORTS TO AVOID DOMESTIC SHORTAGES

MOSCOW -- Russia’s government announced Thursday it was temporarily limiting exports of petrol and diesel fuel to avoid shortages on the domestic market.

The exchange price of domestic petrol soared to a record high this week, in part due to a weaker ruble, rising global oil prices and repair work at refineries curbing supplies.

The announcement comes weeks after Moscow decided to extend a voluntary cut of oil exports until the end of the year in a coordinated move with Saudi Arabia aimed at propping up global crude prices.

“The government introduced a temporary

POPE SET TO DRAW MARSEILLE CROWDS AFTER MIGRANT PLEA

MARSEILLE—Tens of thousands of people are expected to watch Pope Francis process through the streets and celebrate mass in the French Mediterranean city of Marseille Saturday, where the pontiff has waded into an inflamed European debate about accepting migrants.

The Velodrome stadium in France’s second city will be packed with almost 60,000 people, while as many as 100,000 could line the Avenue du Prado for his “popemobile” tour ahead of the mass.

Francky Domingo, a Beninese man who heads a group of undocumented migrants in Marseille, said he hoped the pontiff’s visit would “give us back a little hope” and “calm the political tensions”.

The Mediterranean port is a “cosmopolitan, multicultural, multireligious” hub but “faces huge difficulties, drug trafficking that costs human lives every day, the problem of housing”, Domingo added. AFP

restriction on exports of motor gasoline and diesel fuel to stabilise the domestic market,” the government said Thursday.

“The decision was made to stabilise fuel prices on the domestic market,” it said, without specifying what kind of measures would be introduced.

It said the restrictions would help “saturate the fuel market” and lower prices at the pump.

Farmers in some regions have been unable to harvest grain due to a shortage of fuel needed for agricultural machinery, local media outlets have reported.

The rising fuel prices come as Russia’s central bank warns economic growth is set to slow down in the second half of 2023, with inflation above the bank’s target of four percent.

Russian officials have largely shrugged off the economic effects of Moscow’s dragging offensive in Ukraine, despite persistently high inflation and a weaker ruble.

Meanwhile, Ukraine on Saturday said dozens including senior Russian navy commanders died or were injured when it staged a missile attack on Moscow’s Black Sea Fleet headquarters in the Crimean port of Sevastopol a day earlier.

Ukraine struck the headquarters on Friday, sparking a huge fire.

“The details of the attack will be revealed as soon as possible and the result is dozens of dead and wounded occupants, including senior fleet commanders,” the Ukrainian army said.

It said the strike happened when “a meeting of the Russian navy’s leadership” was going on. AFP

NIGER JUNTA SLAMS U.N. FOR G.A. ‘OBSTRUCTION’

NIAMEY—Niger’s coup leaders accused the head of the United Nations on Friday of obstructing their participation in the body’s General Assembly, saying it was “likely to undermine any effort to end the crisis in our country”.

Rebel elite soldiers overthrew president Mohamed Bazoum on July 26 and have since detained him at home with his family.

Negotiations to restore civilian rule have yet to bear fruit, with the junta demanding a three-year transition and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) calling for the immediate return of the democratically elected Bazoum.

The coup has also been strongly criticised by Western governments and global bodies such as the UN, which is holding its General Assembly of world leaders in New York this week.

In a news release read on public television, the military said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres “went astray in the exercise of his mission by obstructing Niger’s full participation in the 78th session of the UN General Assembly”. AFP

AUSSIES FIGHT ‘VOICE’ RIGHTS REFORM PLAN

SYDNEY—Hundreds of protesters rallied in Sydney on Saturday against a plan to adapt Australia’s constitution to enshrine Indigenous rights, ahead of a referendum next month.

The crowd gathered in the city’s Hyde Park railed against the proposal, which if it passes on October 14, would give Indigenous peoples the right to be consulted on policies that affect them, a measure dubbed the Voice.

“I’m here because I believe that everyone should be voting no. This Voice is causing so much division in the whole of Australia. And we don’t need it,” Faye Bevan, who attended the rally, told AFP.

Some protesters held signs with slogans such as “Vote no to the Voice of division” and “I don’t trust the Voice, I’m voting no”. Others carried placards referring to a range of conspiracy ideas, such as about human trafficking and corporate interests. AFP

KAMALA’S NEW ROLE: FIGHTING US GUN VIOLENCE

US Vice President Kamala Harris took on a new role Friday fighting gun violence, a job likely to give her more visibility ahead of the 2024 election.

The 58-year-old Democrat will head up the new White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, which will provide coordination on the issue but largely lacks any kind of enforceable power to tackle the scourge in a country that has more firearms than people.

“We know true freedom is not possible if people are not safe,” Harris said in a statement announcing the new office.

“We do not have a moment to spare nor a life to spare” while the United States is “torn apart” by gun violence, she said at the White House on Friday.

“After every mass shooting, we hear a simple message, the same message all over the country,” she added, saying

Americans are begging for their leaders to “’do something, please do something.’”

Despite the new push, the White House does not have unilateral power to meaningfully limit gun use in the United States, such as by banning assault weapons.

Any substantial moves would have to come from Congress, where fiercely anti-gun regulation Republicans control the House of Representatives.

Biden has therefore tried to work around legislative requirements and imposed certain regulatory and administrative restrictions, which have only a limited scope.

The new role adds a significant job to Harris’s portfolio just a little over a year ahead of the 2024 race, in which she and the 80-year-old president are facing re-election.

The vice president has already

been tasked with handling other politically sensitive issues such as immigration.

Tackling gun violence gives the former California prosecutor the chance to work on a visible issue that often garners more widespread consensus from the American public.

According to the Gun Violence Archive, a non-governmental organization, 44,374 people were killed by guns across the United States last year.

Gun deaths have slowed slightly this year, at 28,793 for the first eight months, according to the archive.

Harris -- the first woman to become vice president as well as the first Black person and person of South Asian descent to hold the job -- also recently embarked on the so-called Fight for Our Freedoms College Tour, in which she visited several US universities. AFP

A FRIEND’S GRIEF. A friend of 25-year-old Palestinian Yousef Radwan, who was killed the previous day amid clashes following anti-Israel protests by the Gaza Strip’s eastern border fence, cries during his funeral in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on September 20. AFP

RED BEACH. This aerial photo taken on September 21 shows people walking on a beach covered with the plant Suaeda salsa, also known as seepweed or sea-blite, which can turn red in autumn, in Yingkou, in China’s northeastern Liaoning province. AFP

HALLWAY CHAT. In this handout photograph taken and released by Ukrainian Presidential Press Service on September 22, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky (left) listens to Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the Parliament of Canada in Ottawa. AFP

CAVITE’S BEAR MUSEUM STIRS HAPPY THOUGHTS

By Othel V. Campos

There’s no other place in the Philippines to experience largerthan-life teddy bears than in the first and only Bear Museum in Cavite province.

An interesting choice for a business, Bearseum is a gallery of customized plush teddy bears in a themed setting, usually life-sized or even doubly or triply bigger than a normal-sized adult. Its huge collection brings smile to children and childlike adults, says Bear Museum co-owner Lav Conseja.

“Bears are usually associated with happiness. Come to think of it, during courtship, the most popular gifts aside from flowers are bears. When a loved one is sick and confined in a hospital, we bring stuffs toys and most of the time, teddy bears are the first to come to mind to cheer the patient.

Bear Museum co-owner Lav Conseja

Bears are always a constant when one thinks of happy thoughts,” Conseja says.

Bearseum opened in 2019 along the curvy stretch of Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay Road, near the famous Ming’s Garden. It shut down during the pandemic, as the crisis continued to gnaw on the business’ viability.

In May 2023, it relocated to Barangay Loma in Amadeo, Cavite after the owners decided to revive the business.

The museum, restored to its full glory, houses a curated variety of teddy bears—from space-traveling “astrobears” to mermaids, forest-themed and Asian-themed bears and king and queen bears. The establishment has over 300 bears in its collection.

At its new home, the business started on strong note since it opened on a summer break. Kids, with parents in tow, are a constant sight in the premises. Laughter now fills the once quiet barangay.

“They ask us why here. The place, although situated along the highway, is a safe place for kids. The highway is never busy, with low traffic of motorists, and the climate is cool and invigorating,” Conseja says. She says before the pandemic, their lives as marketing executives took a turn from stressful to toxic—starting the day waging a war against EDSA traffic to late-night meetings with clients. Conseja and her business partners co-owned a marketing company that services multinationals. It also shut down during the pandemic after losing most of its clients.

The teddy bear museum was a group brainchild, she says. The concept is to offer a therapeutic staycation to people who are always overtaxed with work and a happy place for children.

“This is from where

the concept of Bearseum started, patterned from our own needs and desire to come to a place where we can forget work even for just a weekend and return the following week with energy replenished, eager for another work week,” Conseja says, adding that in the previous site, the museum was fitted with six suites to accommodate guests.

Bearseum was an original idea that just popped and clicked, innocent of the fact that there may be other bear museums in other countries. The Bear Museum may not be the first in the world, but it is certainly the first and the only Bear Museum in the Philippines, says Conseja.

At the new site, the restored museum mixes with a new dining concept. It is a more logical business decision, having located in a town where residents still go “out-of-town” for quick coffee and snacks.

The cafe

B cafe is the group’s foray into dining. Individually, the co-owners tried to venture into food service businesses, specifically fine dining.

Conseja, herself, used to run a fine dining restaurant in Tagaytay and a coffee shop called Cat Cafe, both of which folded during the health crisis.

Two of her partners—a wellness chef and his son who is a certified barista—are always physically present to help her man the cafe along with a handful of employees who are all locally-hired.

The cafe serves hot and cold beverages, several choices of pasta and panini sandwiches, that kids and adults alike are certain to enjoy.

Cozy and spacious, the cafe opened on Aug. 11, four months after the museum debuted.

Conseja says B Cafe serves the best coffee in town, better than the coffee served in famous coffee chain. The proprietary blend is a trade secret she carefully kept close to her heart.

B Cafe is also open for family and personal events, she says.

Keeping it local

One thing that the business owners strongly agree on is to keep all sourcing and procurement local-- like the raw materials for the museum pieces and ingredients for the cafe.

Conseja, who is the face of the business, is also the creative mind behind designs of the cute and huggable bears. She’s found a plush toy maker who easily adopted the skills to make life-like or bigger-than-life teddy bears. Most of Bearseum’s items are customized, and the smaller ones are bought locally.

“The only imported bear we have is the inflated bear on the Bear Grounds, since we cannot find a local supplier who can create the specifications that we want,” Conseja says.

Her co-owners also plan to add a retail aspect to the museum concept by selling bears that can be fitted with different clothes. There is a also a plan to put up a restaurant that is not only pet-friendly, but treats pets as family members, with a special menu for pet guests.

“Well, these are all plans, at the moment. We will try to save up first, so we can have all these plans fleshed out. I might as well say that our group is quite the risk-taker. We take in risky projects because we are confident that the concept will fly,” Conseja says.

Right now, the museum is running the first of a series of promos. For the month of September, Bear Museum is offering the “9 sale” or the September Treat. On Tuesdays to Thursdays in September, children below three feet are welcome to try the museum tour for P99, below the general admission fee of P169. On weekends in September, the young children are encouraged to try the museum at P179, while the general admission is P259.

Truly, Bearseum stirs up a throve of fond childhood memories for the adults while creating new happy memories for the kids.

At this Cavite museum, a giant bear hug is just a day trip away.

WATSONS Philippines, the leading brand in health, wellness, and beauty retail, partnered with the SM Group for the International Coastal Cleanup celebration at SM by the Bay. Watsons, an affiliate of SM, collaborated as one of the teams that successfully contributed and collected an impressive 66,200 kilograms of trash during the activity held on September 16, 2023 at the iconic Manila Bay coastline.

“As a part of Watsons’ sustainability goals, we are committed to help clean up the environment, especially our waterways. One of the goals we’ve set for ourselves is to be able to collect 65,000kg of trash by 2030. It looks like a big goal to achieve but with our partnership with SM for the International Coastal Clean Up, we are one step closer to that,” said Watsons senior sustainability manager Lexie Coloma.

A total of 12,580 volunteers, including Watsons employees, suppliers, partners, media representatives, and even social media influencers, gathered at dawn to contribute to this meaningful event and do their part in environmental preservation.

In addition to actively organizing and participating in coastal cleanups, Watsons is also engaged in sustainability programs like Recycle for Rewards and Trash to Cash that incentivize customers to recycle in exchange for special Watsons deals. Watsons has also partnered with Plastic Bank to share in the ambitious goal of collecting and recycling 40 million plastic bottles by 2030.

PHILIPPINES’ TOP TRUCK BRAND BEEFS UP PRESENCE IN CAVITE

ISUZU Philippines Corporation (IPC), in collaboration with Iconic Dealership Inc. (IDI), opens its second Isuzu dealership in Dasmariñas, Cavite after the company permanently closed the Isuzu Imus outlet, focusing only in two cities in Cavite, including the dealership in Bacoor.

“The Isuzu brand has always been a jewel within IDI, it amounts to a one-third of our business, and with this relocation we expect better returns in future as it is located at the crossroads of two major thoroughfare, meaning there will be better visibility and accessibility to our customers in the area. The opening is also very timely, since the industry is expecting to reach pre-pandemic level by the end of the year, hopefully fully recovered by next year,” said IDI president Toti Zara.

Situated along the Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, the new dealership has a total land area of 5,000 sqm with a spacious showroom that can display up to 3 vehicles including trucks and offers an expansive facade with ample parking space for customers.

Fully compliant with the Isuzu Outlet Standard, the dealership is aligned with Isuzu’s Global Dealership Standard, giving importance not just in sales but the overall customer journey – from inquiry, sales, after sales service and continuous return to the showroom. The new branch standards will enable Isuzu to provide customer support in every step of the way.

“Considered as of one of the most competitive cities not just in CALABARZON

WELLNESS RETAIL BRAND COMMITS TO ANNUAL COASTAL CLEAN-UP HEALTHCARE COMPANY RECOGNIZED FOR PATIENT-CENTERED AND EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS

TAKEDA Philippines Healthcare, In. (Takeda), a leading pharmaceutical company committed to create better health for people and a brighter future for the world, won 2 prestigious awards at the Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA) ceremony held in Cambodia.

Takeda’s Access To Medicines: Patient Assistance Program (AtM Program) was recognized in the Health Promotion category, while the second award recognized healthcare firm for its unwavering dedication to employee well-being and engagement in the Investment in People category.

The award-winning programs aim to foster a healthy and collaborative working environment, enabling employees to thrive personally and professionally.

AREA recognizes and honors deserving Asian businesses for championing sustainable and responsible business

practices in the following categories: Green Leadership, Social Empowerment, Health Promotion, Investment in People, Corporate Governance, Circular Economy Leadership, Corporate Sustainability Reporting and Responsible Business Leadership. Takeda Healthcare Philippines Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, a global R&D-driven biopharmaceutical company. Its headquarters in Makati City are home to Takeda Philippines’ employees who all share the same passion, drive, and commitment towards delivering life-transforming treatments, and sustainable patient access programs.

but nationwide, Dasmarinas’ growth over the past years as shown to be strategic for Isuzu to set foot in this area. We are happy that through IDI, the brand will have bigger presence not just in this city but in the entire province in the next years to come,,” said IPC president Tetsuya Fujita.

Watsons employees volunteer for the #DoGoodfortheOceans initiative.

THE

NOBILITY IN MOBILITY

LAST week’s grand opening of the Hongqi Grand Showroom at Bonifacio Global City was a celebration marked by joy, and no one embodied that happiness more than Rashid Delgado, President of evoXterra and a prominent figure at Transnational Diversified Group (TDG).

‘DRIVING

POWER AND LUXURY -SUSTAINABLY’

MERCEDES-BENZ PH INTRODUCES EQ SERIES

IC STAR Automotive Inc., the exclusive distributor of Mercedes-Benz in the Philippines, recently unveiled a lineup that’s been eagerly awaited— the Mercedes-Benz EQ electric vehicle series, showcased at the Mercedes-Benz Greenhills showroom.

This momentous launch introduces the extraordinary Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 Electric Art, EQB 250 Electric Art, EQE 300 Electric Art, and EQE 350+ AMG Line, marking a significant milestone in Mercedes-Benz Philippines’ history. These vehicles represent more than an evolution; they symbolize a revolution, embodying the brand’s vision for a future where luxury seamlessly intertwines with sustainability.

The Mercedes-Benz EQ models artfully blend tradition and innovation, merging luxury and performance with an unwavering commitment to a cleaner environment. These cars are propelled by cutting-edge electric drivetrains, delivering exhilarating performance while emitting zero emissions, aligning your driving experience with a greener tomorrow. Safety is paramount, featuring advanced driver-assistance systems that ensure your security on the road. Inside, groundbreaking technology, from an intuitive infotainment system to seamless connectivity, elevates not only efficiency but also driving pleasure.

Yet, it’s not just about technology; Mercedes-Benz’s hallmark design, craftsmanship, and attention to detail shine through in these vehicles.

In essence, Mercedes-Benz EQ cars aren’t simply automobiles; they represent a promise of luxury, performance, and sustainability. Here’s a quick delve into these remarkable models:

1. Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 - Sporty Compact Electric Car

The EQA delivers a sporty, compact electric driving experience with striking design elements. It offers ample space, a luxurious interior, and innovative technology, including an intuitive

MBUX infotainment system. Safety features are top-notch, and it boasts an impressive electric range of up to 496km (WLTP).

• Introductory Retail Price: Php 3,990,000

2. Mercedes-Benz EQB - Flexible, Spacious Electric SUV

The EQB is a compact SUV with room for up to seven, making it versatile and functional. Its cabin exudes luxury, featuring digital displays, ambient lighting, and intuitive controls. Advanced driving

assistance systems ensure safety and convenience, and it offers a driving range of up to 474km (WLTP).

• Introductory Retail Price: Php 4,190,000

3. Mercedes-Benz EQE 300 and 350+ AMG Line - Luxurious Executive Electric Cars

The EQE series epitomizes luxury and innovation. These sedans combine high-quality materials with cutting-edge technology. They feature captivating exterior designs, advanced safety features, and impressive electric ranges of up to 621km (EQE 300) and 682km (EQE 350+ AMG Line).

• EQE 300 Electric Art Introductory Retail Price: Php 5,590,000

• EQE 350+ AMG Line Introductory Retail Price: Php 6,290,000

This launch ushers in a new era of Sustainable Mobility, where Mercedes-Benz pledges an unmatched driving experience, safety, and sustainability. Explore these vehicles at Mercedes-Benz showrooms and experience them firsthand during test drives. Learn more about the Mercedes-Benz EQ series at https://mercedes-benz.ph/ electric-vehicles/.

NLEX BEGINS SAN SIMON PAVEMENT RAISING FOR FLOOD MITIGATION, ASSURES LANE AVAILABILITY DURING REPAIRS

NLEX Corporation is actively raising a 200-meter segment in San Simon as part of its flood mitigation initiative. This project, targeted for completion by year-end, will run 24/7 to minimize traffic disruption for motorists.

NLEX Corporation President J. Luigi

L. Bautista stated, “We are committed to expediting this project, ensuring faster and safer travel in any weather condition.”

During construction, two lanes per direction will remain open for northbound traffic, and a counterflow system will facilitate seamless travel. The same approach will apply to southbound lanes upon the northbound section’s completion.

Motorists are urged to plan for heavy traffic during the pavement raising. Bautista emphasized, “Temporary inconvenience will lead to long-term benefits, including

flood-free roads.”

NLEX has coordinated with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and local government units to establish alternative routes in case of congestion.

Preliminary work, including detailed engineering design completion, has been ongoing since August. After raising the 200-meter portion by 0.7 meters, NLEX plans to add an additional 0.3 meters once DPWH elevates the Tulaoc overpass, achieving a total elevation of 1 meter.

To ensure smooth traffic flow and offer immediate assistance, NLEX will deploy patrol crews, traffic marshals, install strategic traffic signs, and provide regular updates through electronic variable message signs and social media channels.

DISCOVER AN EVEN BETTER MYTOYOTA WALLET APP

TOYOTA Financial Services

Philippines (TFSPH) is thrilled to introduce the new e-money feature in myTOYOTA Wallet, in collaboration with Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI).

As part of our launch promotion, registered customers can earn up to Php 300 (equivalent to a 2% rebate) by using the myTOYOTA Wallet’s e-money feature to pay for Toyota services, parts, accessories, and insurance at Toyota dealerships nationwide.

myTOYOTA Wallet, a mobile payment solution by Toyota Financial Services Philippines, consolidates various payment options in a single app. Customers can conveniently choose between using e-money

Even before the opening ceremony, Rashid was buzzing with enthusiasm. Hongqi’s first and flagship showroom in the Philippines, located at the ground floor of the Asian Century Center, lives up to its esteemed name in China’s thriving auto industry.

“This showroom signifies a new era of luxury mobility in the Philippines. It’s a space where innovation meets elegance, where you can immerse yourself in the essence of ‘Nobility in Mobility.’ Every corner has been meticulously designed to transport you into the world of Hongqi. When you step inside, you’ll find our flagship models waiting to be explored. It’s not just a car display; it’s a testament to our commitment to delivering automotive excellence,” Rashid exclaimed after unveiling their four-vehicle lineup via a captivating ceremony that briefly paused traffic in the BGC area.

“As we open our showroom’s doors, we invite you on a journey with us. A journey where every moment celebrates ‘Nobility in Mobility,’ where Hongqi’s legacy of elegance, innovation, and sustainability comes to life before your eyes,” added Rashid, while his father, Jose Roberto Delgado, the founder and group chairman of TDG, beamed with pride by his side.

Rashid’s hospitality toward the media was evident when they introduced the Hongqi E-HS9 (an elegant electric SUV, with the Flagship variant now priced at P5.98 million) and the gas-powered Hongqi H9 (a sophisticated sedan now available for P8.08 million) several months ago at their sprawling TDG in.Hub Bldg in Taguig City.

Rashid highlighted TDG’s 45-year history as a trailblazer in various industries, from logistics to renewable energy. The company consistently introduces innovative products and global best practices to the Philippines, always aiming to stay at the forefront of change. Part of their evolving strategy includes a focus on electric vehicles and more sustainable transportation.

stored in their myTOYOTA Wallet or their linked credit or debit cards for payments related to Toyota, including periodic maintenance, vehicle repair, parts and accessories purchases, and vehicle insurance. How it Works:

1. Download the myTOYOTA Wallet app from Google Play or the App Store.

2. Register and upgrade your account by submitting a government-issued ID and a selfie. Wait for the verification process to complete.

3. Once upgraded, cash-in using your BPI deposit account.

4. To receive the rebate, pay

for your Toyota transactions using the e-money stored in your myTOYOTA Wallet at any Toyota dealership nationwide. This promotion is valid from July 10 to October 31, 2023, and is in accordance with DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-171252. Terms and conditions apply. You can download myTOYOTA Wallet from the App Store and Play Store. For detailed registration and account upgrade instructions, please visit https://www.toyotafinancial. ph/mytoyotawallet/get-started Register today and enjoy seamless, cashless transactions for all your Toyota needs.

“Our decision to collaborate with China FAW Group (the first auto manufacturer in China, established in 1953 and ranked 79th on the Fortune Global 500 list in 2022) is driven by several compelling reasons. FAW’s stellar reputation in the automotive industry aligns with our values of quality and innovation. Their diverse product portfolio, including Hongqi, allows us to offer high-quality vehicles catering to diverse market needs. Their commitment to technological advancement ensures we provide cutting-edge features and technologies to our customers. FAW’s corporate culture emphasizes collaboration and customer satisfaction, which resonates with our own values,” Rashid explained.

With the introduction of highvalue cars from various renowned brands, Rashid believes that Hongqi can compete head-to-head with them, or perhaps even outshine them. “We are proud to partner with Hongqi, a brand with an almost 70year legacy of superior quality, luxury, and reliable after-sales service. In the face of rising fuel prices and the pressing threat of climate change, this partnership will have a positive impact on the automotive industry in the Philippines,” he confidently stated.

PLDT-SMART, QC PROMOTE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT THROUGH OBSTACLE SPORT

PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF) continues to advocate for youth development and wellness, through the recent turnover of an Obstaclein-a-Box to the 2nd district of Quezon City, held during the Bahay at Buhay: Solo Parents Caravan in the second district of Quezon City.

PETRONAS LE TOUR DE LANGKAWI 2023

WILL CYCLING GODS SMILE ON PINOY RIDERS?

The 7-11-Cliqq-Air 21 continental team from the Philippines may not be one of the top Asian contenders but this time, it is banking on its experiences from two tough races in China in its bid to emerge as one of the top nishers in this race that has become Tourism Malaysia’s pride.

Last year’s top Filipino rider, Nichol Pareja, who sparkled with the best Asian nisher in stage 7, is returning to Malaysia with teammates Ismael Gorospe, Junreck Carcueva, Rench Michael Bondoc, Joshua Pascual and team captain Ryan Tugawin and reserve Marco Lumanog.

They are accompanied by team director Ric Rodriguez, assistant team director Roland Zamora and staff members Oliver Nebres and Dan Sembrano, Jr.

Sending his motivational words from Manila, team owner Bong Sual, exhorted his wards to go for the team’s goal of making a podium nish.

“Goal natin lumaban sa Asian classi cation. Malalakas talaga kalaban pero lalaban na rin lang tayo, taasan na natin goals natin,” said Sual.

Rodriguez affirmed the team’s modest goal confirmed Sual’s goal and “anything that comes after that is already a bonus for us.”

The 7-11-Cliqq-Air 21 will be up against seasoned teams from Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia.

“Back in the Philippines this time of the year, it is almost raining everyday plus bagyo at kung ano-ano pa so di tayo makapag-ensayo ng mabuti kaya we decided to bring the team to these two races in China,” added Rodriguez.

Host Malaysia’s is also hoping for a better nish in the Asian category.

Since the inception of LTdL in 1996, local star Adiq Hussaini Othman has emerged as the only Malaysian to have won the title of Best Asian Rider which he did in the 2016 edition.

Terengganu also have further bragging rights as prodigal son Anuar Manan was also the rst Malaysian to win a stage in the annual race series after doing so on Stage 5 at LTdL.

DAUNTING GENTING

It’s the grueling mountain stage in Genting Highlands is where the race is won and lost, but for sprinters, the PETRONAS Le Tour de Langkawi 2023

o ers the 131 riders an equal chance to shine, o ering them with six at stages to clinch glory in Asia’s prestigious ProSeries race that will run until Sept. 30.

Among the serious bidders are three other notable sprinters, Tour of Taihu Lake overall winner George Jackson, Enrico Zanoncello of Green Project Bardiani-CSF-Fanzine and Tudor Cycling Team’s Arvid de Kleijn.

For George Jackson of Bolton Equities Black Spoke, winning the recent Tour of Taihu Lake was a big motivation to do well in the PETRONAS LTdL 2023.

Enrico Zanoncello, in his first LTdL in the colours of Green ProjectBardiani-CSF-Fanzine, is determined to follow the footsteps of former team star Andrea Guardini who created great legacies of winning a record 24-stage wins throughout his sevenyear campaign in LTdL.

“To achieve the same results as Guardini, definitely it would be impossible. But for LTdL 2023, I hope to win at least a stage, and we’ll see how it goes from there,” said Zanonchello, a former Co dis rider who has a colorful record of racing in Asia. The Italian sprinter came in second overall behind Blake in the Tour of Taihu Lake (2.Pro) race, apart from winning a stage in the Tour of Qinghai Lake (2.Pro) in July.

This year’s LTDL 2023 could also see the rise of Dutch sprinter, Arvid de Kleijn of Tudor Cycling Team, who are making

HOUSE OKAYS 2 BILLS ON GRASSROOTS SPORTS

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE House of Representatives has passed two related measures that set up a broader, grassroots-based national recruitment program for young and talented athletes as well as provide nancial support to them and their respective sports clubs or organizations.

Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund

Villafuerte hailed the bills’ passage even as he issued the statement as the country began its campaign for the 2023 edition of the Asian Games which will run until Oct. 8 in Hangzhou, China.

Villafuerte said the House recently approved on the third and nal reading House Bill 8468 which provides local governments a central role in the institutionalization of a biennial Philippine

National Games (PNG) program, that is envisioned to be the premier nationwide platform for identifying and training athletes who have the potential for becoming world-class athletes in international sports contests.

He said the chamber likewise passed on the third and nal reading a complementary measure, HB 8495, that grants start-up funds or discount vouchers to young athletes, including those with disabilities, who cannot a ord to pay the membership fees of local sports or recreation clubs; and support funds for accredited sports organizations to either sustain their grassroots sports development initiatives or improve their sports facilities.

Villafuete is one of the co-authors of both HB 8468 and HB 8495, along with fellow Camarines Sur Reps. Luis Miguel Villafuerte

their debut in the race. The 29-year-old sprinter will surely come under scrutiny following his first major win in this year’s Milano-Torino (1. Pro) race, stage wins in the Deutschland Tour (2.Pro) and ZLM Tour (2.Pro).

De Kleijn has a huge reputation as a sprinter, having beaten the world’s top sprinters including Mark Cavendish.

“This is my first time in LTdL, but I’ve heard a lot of good things about the race…I’m highly motivated to do well,” de Kleijn, fondly nicknamed Little Gorilla.

On the race route, the Dutchman admitted that the overall winner would be decided amongst the top climbers, with Genting Highlands as the decider.

OVERALL BATTLE

The battle for the PETRONAS Green Overall Winner’s jersey is set to sizzle with tough battles set as early as stage

3 (Jeli-Banting) before what could be the decider in Stage 5 (Slim River-Genting Highlands, Hors Category climb).

EF Education-EasyPosts’ Simor Carr who will be among the front runners in the mountain stages, did not hide his intention of winning in Genting, and at the same, redeeming the loss of compatriot Hugh McCarthy, last year in Genting.

Raised in the Pyrenees in the south of France, the 25-year-old Carr is regarded as one of the Tour’s serious GC and mountain contenders following his consistent performances and victories in this year’s Tour of the l’Alps and Tour de Occitanie. He has had some good results as a junior which opened the path for him to join EF Education-EasyPost in 2021 from Nippo Delko One Provence. Meanwhile, Ecuadorian Harold Martin Lopez, in his second appearance here, hopes that his experience in the Tour last would help him improve on his standings and help Astana Qazaqstan Team in overall outcome.

“Apart from programs focused on education, disaster response, and recovery, PSF also advocates for health and wellness. Our leaders themselves, PLDT Chairman Manuel V Pangilinan and President and CEO Al S. Panlilio, also champion sports as part of nation-building. We continue to support projects that help improve the overall health and wellness of Filipinos in urban communities, especially the youth, through sports,” said PSF President Esther Santos.

The 12-in-1 Obstacle-in-a-Box aims to introduce obstacle sports and build safe spaces for tness and recreation in Quezon City communities.

“This Obstacle-in-a-Box donated by PSF targets to improve youth development in our district through sports,” said Quezon City 2nd District Councilor Mikey Belmonte.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte and Councilor Belmonte led the ceremony joined by representatives from PLDT, Smart, Metro Pacific Health, Maynilad, Meralco, MVP Sports Foundation, and the Pilipinas Obstacle Sports Federation.

PLDT and Smart have also set up booths in the Solo Parents Caravan to bring their mobile and network services closer to Quezon City residents, especially solo parents, to keep them connected.

“I encourage our solo parents to avail Quezon City’s programs that aim to support them and address their needs. We have education assistance for their children, social welfare programs, and other incentives for families needing aid,” said Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte in her speech during the event. This was also posted on the official Facebook Page of the Quezon City Government.

During the Solo Parents Caravan, other members of the MVP Group also extended support to the barangays in the second district. mWell, by Metro Paci c Health Tech Corporation, also forged a partnership with the Quezon City government to strengthen the commitment to achieving good health and well-being.

“We recognize the challenges solo parents face. The mWell partnership will also enable us to bring medical services faster to our solo parents,” added Councilor Belmonte.

“This time, we have a good balance of climbers and sprinters, with last year’s stage winner Gleb Syritsa as our best bet in the sprints. As for the mountains, we have Vadim Pronsky to rely on,” said Lopez, who is in his third year as a full pro with Astana.

Themed ‘Beat The Heat’, LTdL 2023 is organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports through the National Sports Council (NSC), in collaboration with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF).

The 1,278.1km Tour traverses through 11 states in the Peninsula and ends in front of the PETRONAS Twin Tower on Sept 30.

The Philippine National Games is organized by the Philippine Sports Commission every year for athletes carrying the banners of the LGUs.

(Photo from PNG)

and Tsuyoshi Anthony Horibata. He said HB 8468 provides that, “The PNG be held once every two years to serve as the country’s premier national sports competition, with strong support from all LGUs that are tasked to promote the development of sports in all provinces, cities, municipalities, and barangays in the country.” Under this bill, he said, the PNG shall

be the venue for all National Sports Associations (NSAs) to promote their respective sports programs at the grassroots level with the necessary linkages with LGUs, and serve as the feeder program for the pool of studentathletes who shall be given priority in the grant of full high-school scholarships at the National Academy of Sports (NAS). He said that in line with this goal, HB

PSF President Ma. Esther Santos and Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, center, and Quezon City 2nd District Councilor Mikey Belmonte, rightmost, are joined by representatives from MVP-led companies in support of the initiative.

8468 wants the Palarong Pambansa and other local sports contests organized by local governments to become the “feeder system” for identifying and recruiting top athletes in the various PNG sports programs.

The bill provides for the establishment of the programs’ policy-making a coordinating body composed of a seven-member PNG Board with the Executive Secretary as chairman; the Interior and Local Government Secretary as vice chairman; and the Education Secretary, Defense Secretary, and heads of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), as members.

The PSC chairman shall serve as the PNG secretary-general.

HB 8468 mandates that the sports to be played in the PNG shall be aligned with the sports events that the country participates in the Asian Games, Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, Olympics, and other international sports competitions, including the Paralympic Games.

THE white jersey is considered unique in the PETRONAS Le Tour de Langkawi 2023 as it provides an opportunity for Asian riders to shine in this yearly destination for some of the best Pro and Continental cycling teams from around the globe.

The Malaysian national team is always a contender among Asian contenders.

The Astana squad in training.

The six-man 7-11-Cliqq-Air 21 team from the Philippines is coming o fresh from back-to-back races in China before competing in LTdL.

By Peter Paul Duran

THE profound success of “Every Drop Counts: A High-Level Dialogue for a WaterSecure Country” has heralded a new era in shaping a watersecure future for the Philippines.

This critical dialogue responded to the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to water security, bringing together visionaries, policymakers, and key stakeholders from across the nation. Through three enlightening and distinct panel discussions, the event dissected the complex issue of water security: Finance and Water Security, delving into nancial strategies to ensure water availability for all; Water Governance, exploring the policies and mechanisms needed for e ective water management; and Digitalization, Technology, and Infrastructure in Water Security, highlighting the role of technology and innovation in securing our water resources.

The event honored the esteemed presence of the Guest of Honor, Senator Grace Poe, emphasizing the critical need for a collaborative action plan to safeguard the nation’s water resources.

Notably, distinguished keynote speakers profoundly resonated with attendees, including Prof. Mely Caballero-Anthony, who highlighted “Water Security as Critical Core to Human Security,” stressing the inseparable link between water and human well-being.

Congresswoman Bernadette Herrera passionately championed the vital role of women in shaping a water-secure Philippines, urging greater inclusivity and gender equity in water management.

Israeli Ambassador Ilan Fluss shared invaluable insights into technologically forti ed water security, sparking conversations on innovative solutions to revolutionize water management.

Undersecretary Carlos Primo David (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) explored the critical aspect of Water Governance, deepening the understanding of its central role in ensuring the sustainability of water resources.

On the other hand, Department of Finance Assistant Secretary Glenda R. Rumohr-Figueroa shed

PIONEERING A WATER-SECURE PHILIPPINES

lgu.manilastandard@gmail.com

ANGELES PRODUCTS GO TO JAPAN

MAYOR Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. shows his support to the joint program of the Department of Tourism Region 3, led by Director Richard G. Daenos, Luzon International Premier Airport Development (LIPAD), headed by CEO Noel F. Manankil, and Clark Development Corporation represented by OIC Manager Elenita Lorenzo in promoting the best of the Philippines in Japan, where the city government sent products of the OTOP (One Town, One Product) store and its coffee—the Kape Angeleño.

Dubbed “Japan Tourism Roadshow,” the initiative is a vital platform for showcasing the country’s tourism potential in forging connections between global travelers and enhancing destinations yet to be discovered.

Tokyo Ambassador Mylene J. Garcia-Albano is among those who received the OTOP souvenirs and the Kape Angeleño.

Part of the agship programs of the Lazatin administration is to promote locally-made products, providing a venue to market them to a larger audience.

light on the crucial nexus between Finance and Water Security, encouraging collaborative nancial e orts to drive meaningful change.

LWUA Chairman Ronnie Ong on Water Security

On the sidelines of the event, Manila Standard had the privilege of engaging in an insightful conversation with Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) Chairman Ronnie Ong. “Every Drop Counts - A High-Level Dialogue for a Water-Secure Country” was organized by Qarah Comms Inc. for LWUA.

Chairman Ong emphasized LWUA’s essential role in the countryside and his o ce’s policy-making responsibility. He emphasized the need for swift action to dispel the perception of slow progress in the agency and enhance responsiveness to citizens’ needs. Discussing LWUA’s prospective role within a potential Department of Water, Chairman Ong expressed hope that LWUA would oversee bulk water or water sourcing, awaiting clarity on the exact role if

the department is established. He advocated for greater collaboration to avoid redundancy and achieve a cohesive approach to managing the country’s water resources. Assessing the water situation in the Philippines, Ong stressed the need to address non-revenue water or water loss issues caused by various factors, resulting in a signi cant loss of the country’s water supply.

He emphasized the criticality of water, pointing out the substantial portion of the Filipino population with inadequate access to clean water and the importance of collective efforts to rectify this situation.

“Water is life. Basic form of life yan eh, kailangan natin ng tubig. Isa yan sa mga issues na nirereaise ni UN, right and World Health Organization, water. As of now, meron pa po tayong 11 million na Filipinos na wala pong maayos na patubig,” he said.

“According to a SWS ng survey, only 67 percent of the households in the Philippines ang may maayos na tubig. So malayong malayo pa

po,” Ong stressed.

The “Every Drop Counts” dialogue saw approximately 400 enthusiastic attendees actively participating, engaging wholeheartedly in discussions to address just that.

Award-winning broadcaster Mitzi Borromeo, skillfully moderating the event, ensured conversations remained insightful and thoughtprovoking throughout the dialogue.

The event was presented by Aboitiz, Standard Systems Water and Wastewater Technologies, and Tubig Pilipinas. Event Partners included Manila Water, Maynilad, and Prime Water, with generous sponsorship from Aluminates, Chemical Research, and GSMH Law.

‘Every Drop Counts’ served as a rallying point, igniting urgency and mobilizing action to confront the pressing concern of water security in the Philippines, encouraging collaboration among experts and stakeholders as organizers hope to drive tangible e orts to ensure a water-abundant future for the Philippines.

BATANGAS BARANGAYS GET SOLAR STREETLIGHTS FOR SAFETY AND SUSTAINABILITY

TWO barangays in the province of Batangas were the bene ciaries of a donation of solar streetlights to assist in the areas’ safety, particularly at night.

Property developer Pueblo de Oro Development Corporation (PDO), the real estate arm of the ICCP Group, turned over 25 units of solar streetlights to Barangay Tinga Itaas (10 units) in Batangas City and Barangay Balintawak (15 units) in Lipa City. The donations were made through the ICCP Group Foundation, Inc. (IGFI). The streetlights, according to company o cials, are intended to improve walkability along the roadways and o er enough lighting to dark portions of the barangays to mini-

By Butch Gunio

SUBIC Bay Freeport–The rst-ever hybrid workspace in Zambales opened at the Paci c Ace Building in this premiere freeport.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Jonathan D. Tan, International Workplace Group (IWG) Country Manager Lars B. Wittig, and Paci c Ace Subic Bay Corporation (PASBC) President Virginia S. Dio led the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the Regus Subic center at the Paci c Ace Building.

The Regus Subic Center is the rstever hybrid workspace in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, located on the second oor of The Gardens by Paci c Ace. Tan said establishing the shared workspace inside the Subic Bay Free-

The city-run store OTOP and Café Kapebaluan are both priority projects of Mayor Lazatin, assisting local merchants and farmers in their livelihoods. Butch Gunio

MEDICAL MISSION CONTINUES IN GENERAL TRIAS

mize accidents and petty crimes.

These are among PDO’s social welfare programs intended to help the areas in which the company operates. Additionally, the company o ers training courses, life skills seminars, livelihood development initiatives, and many more.

The project is also a nature-friendly initiative consistent with Pueblo de Oro’s advocacy of sustainable environmental protection. A pioneer of “Green Living” in the Philippines, the company has consistently integrated environment-centered programs in its developments and neighboring Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Pampanga, and Batangas communities.

A ONE-DAY outreach program was conducted to cater to the health-related concerns and well-being of the Gentriseños in another round of PGC’s (Provincial Government of Cavite) medical mission held in Brgy. Pasong Camachile II, General Trias City, Cavite, on September 5, 2023. Doctors from the O ce of the Provincial Health O cer, Gianne Faith L. Dayrit and Allyson D. Tomelden, General Emilio Aguinaldo Memorial Hospital midwives, and sta from the O ce of the Provincial Governor collaborated to share their skills and expertise to give 293 patients free medical advice, examinations, and medicine. To ensure everyone’s safety, selected patients underwent screening and antigen swab testing before consultation. They also received mosquito repellent lotion as part of an anti-dengue campaign program.

ZAMBALES HYBRID WORKSPACE OPENS

port Zone would entice more companies to locate here while initially testing the waters before going full-scale.

“This shared workspace provides investors a platform for exploratory activities before deciding on whether they will be expanding to a bigger facility or undertake something else,” he said.

The Agency chief also lauded the efforts of IWG and Paci c Ace in establishing this virtual platform while incorporating the “green advocacy” of PASBC President Dio.

“This will help startup companies to grow as the Regus Subic Center shared workspace becomes an incubator that provides them an area to grow and develop before investing heavily in Subic Bay Freeport,” he added. Meanwhile, Paci c Ace President Dio

said the shared workplace has coworking desks, meeting rooms, and private o ces. She added that the Green Building is environmentally responsible to lessen the negative impact of our footprint on the environment.

“We provide a superior indoor environment that can enhance air and water quality to improve health, productivity, and the energy of the people on the premises. Such conditions are certainly conducive not only to its users but, more importantly, to the environment,” she said.

The shared workspace inside the Green Building includes co-working desks, meeting rooms, and private ofces. The area bears a design that has a green center with live decorative plants in the Central Business District (CBD) area of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

PDO and IGFI representatives turn over solar streetlights to officials of Barangay Tinga Itaas in Batangas City

The Japan Tourism Roadshow is a vital platform for showcasing the country’s tourism potential and its local products

(From left) Fiorella Fabella (World Bank), Mitzi Borromeo (host and moderator), Administrator Leonor Cleofas (MWSS), Phil Milo-Hernandez (QarahComms), LWUA Chairman Ronnie Ong, Asec. Mel John Versoza (DPWH), and Alan Baird (ADB) at the ‘Every Drop Counts: A High-Level Dialogue for a Water-Secure Country’

LIFEYoung

HOW GEN Z WILL SHAPE THE FUTURE OF INSURANCE

QUEST FOR THE PERFECT BUTT

IN RECENT years, the pursuit of physical perfection has grown increasingly popular. While some seek the ideal nose, fuller lips, or a sculpted abdomen, others desire the perfect buttocks, regardless of gender.

The beauty and wellness industry offers numerous procedures to enhance the appearance of the buttocks, yet none rival the comprehensive approach of the GoldIncision method. A respected presence in the market, this method promises not only aesthetic enhancement but also harmonization and a significant reduction in unwanted cellulite.

Cellulite results from a combination of factors, including fat accumulation, poor circulation, and skin sagging.

The GoldIncision technique stimulates collagen production and encourages the restructuring of the fibrous septa responsible for skin tightening.

It’s important to note that the benefits extend beyond aesthetics; this is about achieving harmony. In some cases, cellulite can lead to local discomfort, stiffness, and mild pain.

As part of its mission to provide “Insurance for All,” Igloo unveils how Gen Z (which management company McKinsey defines as people born between 1996-2012) will shape insurance in the near future.

By 2025, McKinsey suggests that this segment will make up a quarter of Asia Pacific’s (APAC) population, making them a big driver of the economy. In the Philippines in particular, around 40 million Filipinos are considered to be part of this segment.

Known for being true digital natives and digital savvy, this generation’s preference for speed and convenience, and different lifestyles open a new door filled with opportunities for the sector to tap into.

The insurance industry is changing rapidly with the arrival of Gen Z in the workforce. Speed and convenience are now crucial, and the industry must understand evolving consumer preferences to stay competitive.

In today’s digital age, convenience and speed are paramount, with everything accessible at the click of a button. This demand for efficiency has spurred the growth of insurtech, which leverages innovative strategies like embedded insurance to seamlessly integrate insurance products into the buying process.

This shift is further enhanced by trends like accelerated underwriting and digital assistants, enriching the overall customer experience.

Igloo, through strategic partnerships with major players such as Lazada, Shopee, DANA, GCash, and Circle K, embeds insurance products in diverse distribution channels. Notably, they introduced Southeast Asia’s first convenience store insurance with

Circle K.

One significant hurdle for Gen Z consumers is the lack of personalization in traditional insurance policies, leading to higher costs and irrelevant coverage.

Gen Z, price-sensitive and willing to share personal data for customization, presents an opportunity for personalized products. Usage-based insurance, exemplified by stackable microinsurance, empowers consumers to tailor coverage to their preferences and budgets, bolstered by technologies like IoT, 5G, AI, and big data.

Emerging threats, including online shopping fraud, data breaches, and device protection, prompt Gen Z to seek tailored insurance for modern lifestyles. Igloo responds with innovative offerings like 360-Degree Phone Protection and Travel Master with COVID-19 coverage.

The APAC region, driven by developing economies and a burgeoning middle class, exhibits strong demand for affordable insurance. Igloo addresses this demand by introducing products like 360-Degree

Phone Protection and Travel Master with COVID-19 coverage.

Moreover, insurers are now addressing non-human risks, such as pet health insurance, recognizing the growing pet ownership in countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

Gen Z, valuing credible brands

that align with their values, emphasizes sustainability and diversity & inclusion in their purchasing decisions.

Insurers must consider these factors, especially in emerging markets like Southeast Asia, where the underinsurance gap is substantial.

Insurers must also adapt to the digital-savvy Gen Z consumer, who extensively researches products like insurance. Creating clear unique selling propositions (USPs) is crucial to standing out in a competitive landscape.

Igloo’s mission is to make insurance affordable and accessible, identifying emerging risks and solving them through technology and strategic partnerships. Understanding cultural and behavioral shifts is key to increasing insurance penetration in the region.

WHEN Kiel Domingo, a Business Administration major at Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna (Mapúa MCL) first signed up to join this summer’s Sustainability and Innovation Summer Experience at Arizona State University (ASU), the most innovative university in the United States, he was curious to “see what it’s all about.”

The second annual ASU Sustainability and Innovation Summer Experience program held in June of 2023 brought together a diverse group of students from ASU-Cintana Alliance partner institutions around the globe to empower them to become catalysts for change in their communities and equip them with the knowledge and skills to tackle global challenges.

Over the course of two weeks, Kiel and a group of 20+ other students engaged

in diverse activities designed to foster their personal and academic growth. They attended classes, lectures, and workshops led by community entrepreneurs and ASU experts from various colleges and schools including the School of Sustainability and the School for the Future of Innovation in Society within the ASU College of Global Futures, Makerspace in the Hayden Library, and the Thunderbird School of Global Management.

Living in Arizona, Domingo got to see and live for himself an America he had only seen and heard on TV. “In terms of actually watching stuff and then experiencing it, America is a sprawling, car-centric land,” he said.

“And that people thought I was local for the most part; maybe it’s my accent. I grew up having English as my first and primary

In essence, the GoldIncision technique offers a path to cellulite elimination and skin health. By employing this method, skin depressions are addressed, promoting overall skin well-being. Importantly, this procedure does not necessitate hospitalization, surgical incisions, or invasive measures. Patients can often resume their regular activities on the same day.

The GoldIncision method garnered international acclaim as it was honored with the title of the ‘Best Non-Surgical Body Treatment in the World’ at an awards ceremony held in Monaco during the Aesthetic & Anti-Aging Medicine World Congress.

The GoldIncision method enhances the appearance of the buttocks by stimulating collagen production and encourages the restructuring of the fibrous septa responsible for skin tightening

language.  But ours is a mixed household, so we grew up with Filipino and Cebuano, too,” Domingo explained.

He was paired with a Mexican classmate, and there was “no language barrier; we got along pretty well.  We figured out that Tagalog has some Spanish, so I picked up on what he was saying most of the time when he spoke Spanish to his family in France. So interesting to find out that we have much more in common than we first thought.”

The ASU Sustainability and Innovation Summer Experience offered him two weeks filled with interactive workshops, inspirational lectures, hands-on activities, and immersive experiences focused on building sustainable and innovative solutions for the world’s toughest challenges.

Read full story on manilastandard.net

IGLOO, a regional insurtech providing people-first and simple insurance solutions, is leveraging upcoming technologies like blockchain and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to protect underserved segments across Southeast Asia against emerging risks and needs.

Igloo offers 360-Degree Phone Protection and Travel Master with COVID-19 coverage in respond to emerging online threats

TWICE AS READY

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE HEADING TO  TWICE 5TH WORLD TOUR ‘READY TO BE’ CONCERT

By Nickie Wang

FILIPINO fans of the global KPop sensation

TWICE, known as ONCEs, are eagerly anticipating one of the year’s most significant music events: the

TWICE 5th World Tour

“Ready to Be” concert, set to captivate audiences at the Philippine Arena on September 30 and October 1.

Smart Communications, in partnership with Viu, is thrilled to present this sensational event to Manila, marking it as the latest addition to this year’s impressive Smart Live lineup.

Want to learn more about TWICE? Whether you’re a certified ONCE, new to the fandom, or just love KPop in general, here are some facts that you should know about the group: The nine members of TWICE were selected through a competition show

TWICE officially debuted in 2015 with the release of their first EP, The Story Begins. The group’s composition was decided just a few months earlier through a competition survival show called Sixteen

Originally, the group’s founder JYP Entertainment wanted only seven members for the group, and those selected from the show were Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Sana, Jihyo, Mina, Dahyun, and Chaeyoung. However, JYPE founder J.Y. Park decided to add

on Sixteen, and Momo, who was added by Park for her performance abilities.

Not all TWICE members are South Korean by origin

Here’s a closer look at TWICE’s nine members:

• Nayeon (Im Na-yeon) – Often considered the “center” of the group, Nayeon is known for her powerful vocals and cheerful personality. She was born on September 22, 1995 in Seoul, Korea.

praised for her unique and soothing vocal tone. She often adds depth and emotion to the group’s songs. She was born on November 1, 1996 in Gyeonggi, South Korea

• Momo (Hirai Momo) – Momo is renowned for her exceptional dancing skills and energetic stage presence. She was born in Kyotanabe, Japan on November 9, 1996.

• Sana (Minatozaki Sana) – Sana is known for her adorable charm and signature phrase “Shy, Shy, Shy”. She

GMA LAUNCHES AI-GENERATED SPORTSCASTER FOR NCAA SEASON 99 COVERAGE

THE future of Philippine basketball is here as the country’s first athletic collegiate league — the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) — welcomes the “New Heroes of the Game” as it officially opens Season 99 today via the home of the NCAA, GMA Network.

Live from the Mall of Asia Arena and simulcast at 2:00 p.m. on GMA and GTV, this season’s opening ceremony showcases the 10 member schools – led by Season 99 host José Rizal University, Arellano University, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, College of Saint Benilde, Emilio Aguinaldo College, Lyceum of the Philippines University, Mapua University, San Beda University, San Sebastian College-Recoletos, and University of Perpetual Help SystemDalta.

The start of the much-awaited NCAA Season 99 Men’s Basketball tournament follows on GTV with the host school José Rizal University Heavy Bombers facing the three-time defending champion Colegio de San Juan Letran Knights at 3:30 p.m..

The second game sees the Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates going up against the College of Saint Benilde Blazers at 5:30 p.m.

Aside from Men’s Basketball, viewers will definitely be thrilled with other sporting events this season, including Women’s Volleyball, Cheerleading Competition, Swimming, Track and Field, Juniors’ Basketball, Men’s Volleyball, Beach Volleyball, Taekwondo, Chess, and NCAA All-Star Games. Adding more excitement to the new season is the return of Badminton and Table Tennis, and the inclusion of grassroots programs like the Kiddie and 3x3 Basketball.

BTS’ SUGA BEGINS MILITARY SERVICE

By Angelica Villanueva

SUGA, a member of the global group BTS, has commenced his twoyear military service.

Prior to his enlistment, the Korean idol took to the fan community app Weverse to bid farewell to his fans and the septet’s fans, known as ARMY.

“Hello, I’m Suga. I came to say goodbye!” began the 29-year-old rapper.

Suga also expressed his gratitude for all the support he has received since their debut as a group.

“Thanks to ARMYs, I was able to safely come to where I am right now,” he continued.

The BTS member then mentioned the beginning of his military service saying, “And now the time has come. I’ll diligently perform my service and return once it ends.”

The “Haegum” singer reminded his fans to stay healthy until he completes his duty. “Be cautious of the chilly change of seasons during this autumn season and take good care of yourselves.”

Suga concluded his message with a promise to reunite with them as a group in 2025 for their comeback.

“ARMY!!!! Always thankful, and I love you,” concluded the singerdancer.”

• Jihyo (Park Ji-hyo) – The group’s leader and one of the main vocalists, Jihyo is recognized for her powerful and emotive singing. She was born in Gyeonggi, South Korea on February 1, 1997.

• Mina (Myoui Mina) – Also from Japan, Mina is known for her graceful and elegant presence. Her birth date is March 24, 1997.

• Dahyun (Kim Da-hyun) –Dahyun is notable for her playful personality and skillful rap verses. She was born on May 28,1998 in Gyeonggi, South Korea.

• Chaeyoung (Son Chae-young)

– Chaeyoung stands out as the group’s main rapper and is also known for her artistic abilities, including songwriting. Her birthday is April 23, 1999 and she was born in Seoul, South Korea.

• Tzuyu (Chou Tzuyu) – The youngest member of TWICE, Tzuyu is known for her stunning visuals and captivating stage presence. She was born on June 14, 1999 in Tainan, Taiwan. Meanwhile, here are a few reminders while attending the concert – etiquettes to ensure a fun experience for everyone:

• Don’t throw anything onto the concert stage.

• Be considerate and respectful of other fans.

• Avoid pushing and shoving.

• Don’t stand on the chairs to avoid accidents and blocking the view of fans behind.

NCAA Season 99 also marks the launch of GMA Integrated News’ AI (Artificial Intelligence) Generated Sportscaster, the country’s first digital news presenter. Sports enthusiasts will be in the know on the latest happenings and updates on the various sports events of the NCAA using the advancements in generative AI. NCAA Season 99 also introduces its new lineup of courtside reporters who are set to deliver the latest reports and happenings in and out of court.

These 12 ladies include new and familiar faces such Lexi Gonzales, Hannah Arguelles, Glycel Ann Galpo, Alyanna Ysabelle Faustino, Liezl Anne Nierves, Monique Angelika Santos, Diana Marie Igual, and Arlove De Jesus

Returning this season are Kristine San Agustin, Julia Mae Ong, Fatima Faye Reyes, and Stephanie Benito.

Hosting the opening ceremony are GMA Synergy Sportscaster Martin Javier and Matteo Guidicelli Joining them are Arra San Agustin and Faith da Silva

Set to provide electrifying performances are Julie Anne San Jose together with Zephanie, Rita Daniela, Hannah Precillas, Jessica Villarubin, Mariane Osabel, Thea Astley, Lexi Gonzales, Ysabel Ortega, 1st.One, and Jillian Ward Viewers should also watch out for the special participation of Alden Richards

Tickets for today’s games are available via www.smtickets. com or on-site at the Mall of

two more members–Tzuyu, who was the most popular contestant • Jeongyeon (Yoo Jeong-yeon) –Jeongyeon is Osaka on December 29, 1996.

Korean girl group TWICE is heading to Manila this month for their ‘Ready To Be’ concert

The nine-member group is known for their hit songs such as ‘What is Love?’ and ‘TT’ Asia Arena Ticket Booth.

Julie Anne San Jose and Alden Richards lead

Suga of Grammynominated group BTS

SUSTAINABILIT HAS NEVER BEEN THIS DELICIOUS

By Joyce Babe Pañares

IT WAS an eight-hands dinner like no other – promoting the best of Singaporean and Filipino flavors while championing sustainability.

Singapore’s Chef Li Guang “LG” Han of Restaurant Labyrinth and Vijay Mudaliar, Head Bartender and co-owner of Native Bar and Restaurant, partnered with Manila’s Chef Jordy Navarra of TOYO Eatery and Chef Stephan Duhesme of Metiz for an exclusive 10-course on September 17, 2023.

“At Restaurant Labyrinth, our local produce advocacy is grounded on sustainability. We are proud to say that anywhere from 60 to 90 percent of the ingredients used in our dishes come from within Singapore,” said Chef Han. Founded in 2014, one Michelin-starred Restaurant Labyrinth has consistently been included in the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list for three years now, and has earned a spot among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants this year.

“Singapore is an island city. There is definitely a lack of space. But despite all the challenges we face, we all have to do our little part for the next generation,” he added.

For his part, Mudaliar, a sustainability titan in Singapore’s bar scene, pioneered a form of urban foraging in Singapore that focuses on wild food resources and incorporates them into cocktails.

“The cocktails I prepare reflect the philosophies I believe in. There is always room to improve in our efforts toward sustainability,” he said.

Mudaliar's Native cocktail bar, which focuses on ingredients sourced locally and regionally, has since expanded to include a restaurant with mostly pescatarian and vegetarian options, and a fermentation lab within its three-floor space on Singapore’s Amoy Street.

Han and Mudaliar's collaboration with Manila-based chefs Navarra and Duhesme is part of the Asian Culinary Exchange (ACE) organized by chef and food writer Angelo Comsti. This year’s edition of ACE is designed to showcase Singapore through a series of cross-cultural collaborations between Singaporean and Filipino chefs.

The exchange is part of Serve It, Singapore! –a project of the Singapore Tourism Board that brings a slew of one-of-a-kind dining experiences straight from the culinary capital of Singapore to delight the palates of Filipino foodies.

Fang Xun Ong, Philippines Area Director of STB, said: “Singapore has long acknowledged sustainability as a vital part of its present and future. Collectively, we have been taking steps to develop innovative experiences with a reduced impact on the environment.”

“Sustainability is not just a buzzword. It is time we start normalizing sustainability in the food industry,” Comsti added.

TOYO Eatery, for example, bagged this year’s Flor De Caña Sustainable Restaurant Award due to its commitment to minimize its carbon footprint and to source local ingredients. It also has

the distinction of holding the 42nd spot among Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2023.

“Sustainability for us at TOYO Eatery is cultivating the relationships we have with the people that nurture our country. We are delighted to be recognized for our commitment to upholding our heritage and seeing how closing loops forms part of a larger conversation on sustainability,” Navarra said.

Metiz, on the other hand, debuted at the

BULALO AND OTHER COZY WEATHER FOOD TO ENJOY AT HOTEL CASIANA IN TAGAYTAY

By Peter Paul Duran

TAGAYTAY is known for its cool weather and delicious food. Located in the province of Cavite, the city is about an hour or two's drive from Manila. Famous for its panoramic views of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano, Tagaytay is a popular weekend getaway destination for people from the metro

and neighboring areas.

When you hear the word "Tagaytay," the first food that comes to mind is probably bulalo. A clear soup made with beef shanks, marrow bones, and vegetables, bulalo is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a cold and foggy day.

And during this time of year when Filipinos usher in what is probably the

longest Yuletide season in the world, Tagaytay is blanketed by cool fog. The weather sets the stage perfectly for savoring a bowl of steaming hot bulalo.

Manila Standard Cravings recently embarked on a delightful visit to Tagaytay to relish its unique blend of cool weather and delectable cuisine. And amid the refreshing light downpour, we discovered the quintes-

48th spot among Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2023 thanks to its sustainable practice of using local produce to delight diners in surprising and ingenious ways.

“I think of Metiz as a creative space that serves food. We collectively share a unified vision on how to present food, and that vision involves promoting ingredients easily found in the country and sourcing them from farmers that adhere to sustainable agricultural practices,” Duhesme said.

sential Tagaytay experience at Hotel Casiana.

Nestled in this scenic paradise, Head Chef Victor Legaspi makes sure to delight the tastebuds of all their guests.

The hefty portion of their bulalo satisfied a party of five hungry diners. The beef was incredibly tender, practically falling off the bone, and the marrow was irresistibly inviting.

Jun delos Santos, the hotel's General Manager, recommended that we try

their whole fried chicken, playfully hinting that we might mistake it for another famous whole fried chicken.

The serving of their burger and fries and pansit guisado was generous, and the Italian pasta was rich and filling.

The hotel's buffet breakfast spread has cereals, a salad bar with cold cuts, a selection of desserts and cakes, bread for toasting, and various jams. Mains include Hungarian sausage, crispy bacon, and tinapa.

Chili crab with local tomatoes

Cold somen with white kimchi

TOYO Eatery's take on fried ensaymada topped with ubod puree and chopped mustard leaves

Chef Vijay Mudaliar's cocktail made with Roku gin, white peony, calamansi and gingerflower

Warm bulalo for that chilly Tagaytay weather

Spaghetti bolognese

A generous serving of pancit guisado

na puso ng saging with munggo aioli

PETS THAT SPECIAL BREED CALLED PUSPIN PUSPIN

By Mariana Burgos

PUSPIN is short for Pusang Pinoy (Filipino Cat). This is what we now call the Filipino cat breed. They used to be called ‘Pusakal” which is short for Pusang Kalye (street cat) but Filipino animal rights and welfare advocates fought to change that coinage because it carried such a negative impression for our beloved furry friends.

Lately, Puspins are being sought out by many for their personal animal companions. As to why it is so, let us look closely into this special cat breed.

According to the article “Puspin Cat (Pusang Pinoy) Breed Complete Information” of the Cat Breeds FAQ website, Puspins are cats of unknown breed. They have short coats with any combination of coat colors. Puspins are also called Domestic Short Hair (DSH), House Cat Shorthair (HCS), Shorthair Household Pet, or lovingly, a moggy. Puspin's tail might be regular length or it can be shortened, 'stumpy,' or kinked. This is widespread in many Domestic Short Haired cats in Asia, including Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Singapore, and Indonesia, and is caused by the cat's genetic make-up.

Historical background of the breed

In the same article, it was noted that cats like Puspins are genetically related to the Japanese Bobtail breed, which is famed for its short tail. The breed arrived in Japan around 1,000 years ago from either China or Korea.

This is where it is thought that the Bobtail mated with the Puspin overseas, and that the Puspin finally returned to their country, taking this new addition into their genetic makeup.

Aside from bits of evidence tying these cats back to the Bobtail, there is no study or evidence tracing them to any other breed, since their genetics are a jumble of apparently unending crossbreeding over thousands of years.

The puspin character

Puspin cats are recognized for being sociable and versatile. They are gregarious creatures who form strong bonds with their human friends. These cats have a sweet personality and appreciate snuggles, caressing, and interactive play. However, just like any other human, each Puspin cat has its own distinct personality features.

While Puspin cats are not recognized for their extraordinary intellect as certain pedigreed breeds, they are fairly intelligent and trainable. Puspin cats may learn simple instructions and play interactive activities that develop their minds with patience and good reinforcement.

Puspin cats are very gregarious creatures with a strong feeling of community. They are known to create intimate ties not just with people, but also with other cats. Puspin cats adapt well to multi-cat families and love the

companionship of feline pals.

In the article, it was also noted that puspins have walked the streets of many neighborhoods for millennia, with a sense of street

smartness built into their instincts. Their behavior with strangers will be influenced by how they are treated while out and about.

The health and lifespan of Puspins Puspins, like other mixed-breed animals, may have fewer genetic health issues due to a phenomenon known as "hybrid vigor" due to their genetic variety. This means that Puspins, like a mixed-breed cat, have many diverse gene pools from which their genetic make-up is composed. With a gene pool comprising two or more distinct genetic 'sets,’ recessive genes that may 'carry' health concerns are successfully eliminated. This can result in improved health for your cat, fewer trips to the clinic, and (possibly) a longer life.

In other words, as noted in the article, Puspins have a more robust gene pool, with gaps filled and weak points genetically fortified. This does not occur in purebred cats since their genetics are significantly more streamlined.

Puspin cats have a life expectancy of 1320 years.

When you have decided to become a furparent and know you are up to the task, try obtaining a Puspin to fill out your family!

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

HOT SPOTS ON DOGS: CAUSES, TREATMENT AND PREVENTION

By Niko Gabriel Salgado

AMONG the many potential canine skin issues, hot spots are among the most common. This skin problem can have varying root causes and treatment strategies depending on their severity.

What are hot spots?

“Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are localized areas of skin inflammation and bacterial infection,” said veterinarian Elizabeth Racine in “Hot Spot Treatments and Prevention on Dogs” in the American

Kennel Club website.

“Often a hot spot on a dog will begin as a small red area on the skin that owners may mistake for an insect bite. Unlike an insect bite, a hot spot on your dog will rapidly worsen and spread, developing into a hot, red, oozing, and painful lesion,” Racine added.

Hot spots can manifest on a dog's body in various locations, with common sites being the face, neck, limbs, or hips. While the size and appearance of these lesions may slightly differ, they typically share a similar appearance regardless of where they occur.

While some hot spots on dogs are relatively minor and heal swiftly, they do have the potential to lead to a more severe problem, including widespread infection.

What Causes Hot Spots on Dogs?

Some dog breeds have a higher likelihood of developing skin issues, including hot spots. Frequently affected breeds include Golden Retrievers, English Bulldogs, and German Shepherds. Racine said a few common causes of the itching/scratching cycle in dogs include:

· Parasites in dogs

· Flea allergy dermatitis

· Dog food allergies

· Atopic dermatitis

· Ear or skin infections

· Contact irritants

· Stress or boredom resulting in excessive licking

· Coat that is dirty or matted

· Moisture trapped in the coat from swimming or bathing

How to Treat a Hot Spot on a Dog

Although some cases of hot spots in

dogs can be managed at home, it is cru cial to identify the root cause in order to prevent further occurrences.

“If you suspect your dog may have a hot spot, the first step is to consult your veterinarian. While it may be tempting to wait for your dog’s hot spot to resolve on its own, delaying treatment will only make the problem worse.” Racine noted.

It becomes even more urgent if the affected area is:

· Expanding in size

· Continuously bleeding

· Exhibiting colored discharge

If you are unable to prevent your pet from licking or scratching the hot spot, it is advisable to seek veterinary attention promptly.

What Will the Vet Do to Treat Hot Spots?

The treatment for a hot spot varies depending on its seriousness, but typically, veterinarians would recommend oral antibiotics, anti-itch medication, and the use of a protective collar. In some cases, the affected area might be shaved and cleansed with antiseptic solutions.

About the Author: Niko Gabriel Salgado is a graduate of consular and diplomatic affairs from De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, and worked at the House of Representatives. He is now an entrepreneur and a volunteer of the animal welfare group Save Animals of Love and Light- Save ALL.

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Cassie, a rescued beagle, had to wear an e-collar to keep her from scratching parts of her body to prevent infection. This will also stop her from licking the part where a medicated ointment was put. (Photo from file of Save Animals of Love and Light-Save ALL)

Cali, short for Calico, is a nine-month old puspin kitten of the author. He is a 1 in 3,000 rarity because he is a male cat with 3 colors. He also has a case of heterochromia: one eye is green while the other is blue. (Photo taken by the author.)

Little Prince is Cali’s brother. (Photo taken by the author.)

This lovely blue-eyed girl is the only sister of Cali and Prince. (Photo taken by the author.)