THE increasing threats from China in the West Philippine Sea have prompted the House of Representatives to reallocate confidential and intelligence funds (CIF), including those intended for the Office of the Vice President and Department of Education, to agencies that operate in the threatened areas.
“The country’s safety and security are of paramount importance. To protect our territorial integrity from external threats, Congress is giving top priority to agencies directly in charge protecting the country’s safety and securing its borders,” said Rep. Elizaldy Co of Ako Bicol, chair of the House appropriations committee.
The committee decision followed the unanimous position of all party heads in the House of Representatives to augment funding for the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), the National Security Council (NSC),
With these words, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro said the country will continue to protect its sovereign rights, in response to China’s warn- ing to the Philippines “not to stir up trouble” after the Phil- ippine Coast Guard (PCG) removed a floating
China Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin: I would also like to reiterate once again. Huangyan Island (Scarborough) is China’s inherent territory. The so-called operation of the Philippine side is a purely self-indulgent farce. China will continue to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in Huangyan Island.
barrier that the Chinese had installed to keep Filipino fishers out of Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal.
Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).
“As discussed, we will realign the confidential funds of various civilian agencies. Now is the time to give our intelligence community the means to perform their duties, especially in these pressing times when we’re facing serious concerns in the West Philippine Sea,” Co said.
“The CIFs from other departments and agencies will be realigned to the NSA, NICA, PCG and BFAR to boost the country’s monitoring and operational capabilities in protecting our territorial waters and securing the rights and access of Filipino fishermen to their traditional fishing grounds,” he added. Co said among those to be affected by the budget cuts are the OVP and DepEd, which were allocated a combined amount of P650 million in confidential and intelligence funds under the 2024 National Expenditure Program.
THE Philippines and United States navies are set to hold a two-week joint naval activity to strengthen international defense cooperation, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said.
In a statement, AFP Public Affairs Office Chief, Lt. Enrico Ileto said the naval warfare activities, dubbed “Samasama Exercise,” would run from October 2 to 12 at the Naval Forces Southern Luzon area of operations.
This developed as Army chiefs and senior officers from 30 countries, including the United States and the Philippines, met in India on Tuesday to discuss threats facing the Asia-Pacific region, in the face of concern at an increasingly assertive China.
Next page Next page
THE Department of Energy (DOE) warned that world oil prices may con-
tinue to be volatile despite forecasts of a possible rollback in the domestic market due to the movement of global prices early this week.
“You know that it is volatile and we
country,” the President said.
have to always be ready. Because we are already moving towards the winter months and normally, the prices will increase. But let us hope that the external factors like Ukraine and Russia will
stabilize,” Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said. He said world oil prices normally go up during the winter months due to the
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By Charles Dantes,Maricel Cruz, Macon Ramos Araneta and Julito Rada
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday signed into law Republic Act No. 11962 or the “Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act” into law to address unemployment, underemployment, and other challenges in the country’s labor sector.
“I am very pleased to stand before you today at this ceremonial signing of the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act, a significant milestone towards the sustainable and inclusive development of our
“The law will help us solve the various challenges plaguing our labor sector such as low-quality jobs, skills mismatch, and underemployment among others,” he added.
The law aims to boost the employability and competitiveness of the labor market and support micro, small, and medium enterprises and industry stakeholders.
An interagency council to craft a masterplan for employment generation and recovery would be created,
Next page
OFFICE for Transportation Security
(OTS) administrator Ma. O Aplasca, who resigned Tuesday night, has criticized the “cultural decay” within the Ninoy Aquino International Airport
(NAIA) security management teams which, he said, allowed corrupt screeners to remain in their jobs.
In an interview with TeleRadyo Serbisyo on Wednesday, the former police general and House sergeant-at-arms said the problem with airport security “is not only systemic but also cultural.” He pointed to the previous “tanimbala” scheme at the NAIA where airport screeners placed bullets inside passengers’ luggage to alert security and eventually extort money from them.
FIRE, 150 MORE INJURED
“WE DO not want war, but it’s our territory that they want to get.”
mst.daydesk@gmail.com
AUSTRALIA is helping the Philippines restore the coral reefs in some parts of the West Philippine Sea.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Command (AFP WESCOM) and the Australian Embassy in the Philippines discussed the joint coral reef restoration projects to protect the marine environment during a forum on Wednesday.
The forum was entitled “Implementing a Comprehensive Philippine Maritime Framework to Advance the Rule of Law” and organized by the Stratbase
ADR Institute.
The partnership comes amid various activities that have threatened the marine environment in the waters, Acting Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Moya Collett revealed, as she showed videos of joint coral reef projects in the waters off Zambales and Palawan provinces.
Collett said such videos make her
“proud and excited about the amazing
work we continue to pursue together with the Philippines to protect our most precious marine environment.”
Australia is helping the Philippines preserve the marine environment off Zambales waters by assisting the Mead Foundation, the Southern Cross University, and the University of the Philippines Marine Environmental and Resource Foundation. They combine various coral restoration methods to maximize the health of the marine ecosystems.
In Palawan, the Australian Institute of Marine Science is helping the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development with its reef monitoring by integrating an easy-to-use reef monitoring
device the Australian team developed into its routine, the diplomat said.
“Both of our countries are committed to promoting an open, secure, and prosperous region where international law and sovereignty are respected. We are also committed to protecting the marine environment which is critical to supporting the lives and livelihoods of our two peoples,” Collett said.
AFP WESCOM Commander Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos welcomed Australia’s aid, as the Armed Forces are on the frontline of protecting the country’s territorial waters and marine environment.
Carlos said this is the “perfect opportunity” for Manila to work with Can-
berra, as he noted the High Seas Treaty recently signed by the Philippines and Australia, among other countries, and the reported changes in the quality of marine life in the West Philippine Sea.
“After the AFP reports changes in the quality of marine life in our areas of responsibility, we would very much like to help our experts do their tasks of studying, researching, and finding ways to preserve and protect marine biodiversity,” he said.
“We need experts from the Bureau of Fisheries and perhaps the DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources), the UP Marine Science Institute, and other similar institutions,” Carlos said.
DOE:...
higher demand for heating.
“Prices may go up and down so we have to manage expectations that it will continue to go down because there are a lot of external factors involved,” the energy chief said.
“So we must continue to save on unnecessary trips outside of the house, let us use mass transport systems so we can save on these expenses,” he said.
Sources said it was too early to project what prices would look like, given that the weekly computation takes into account five days of movement in world oil prices.
But based on the first two days of trading, prices for gasoline could be cut by P1.80 to P2 per liter, diesel, by 30 to 50 centavos per liter, and kerosene by P1 to P1.10 per liter.
Meanwhile, Lotilla said he would leave it to Congress to follow up on their appeal for oil companies to absorb part of the anticipated increase in oil prices.
He said the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) has been conducting studies in the oil industry.
“They are in the better position than DOE to look at anti-competitive behavior. It is something worthwhile looking to, as for political appeal (to cut profits), it is also something useful,” Lotilla said.
DOE director for oil industry management bureau Rino Abad said early this week that they will watch closely what happens after the Russian government announced it will temporarily limit oil exports to avoid shortages in the domestic market.
“It appears this will have an effect of a restriction in supply so by implication there will be pressure for prices to increase so we have to monitor the next few days if there will be an actual increase,” Abad said.
The average price for gasoline in the National Capital Region currently ranges from P62.35 to P90.15 per liter, diesel from P62.95 to P87.10 per liter and kerosene from P80.75 per liter to P93.09 per liter.
On Sept. 26, the oil firms cut pump prices by P0.50 per liter for kerosene and by P0.20 per liter for gasoline and diesel to reflect the movement of prices in the world oil market.
Marcos...
led by National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan. The council will be co-chaired by the secretaries of the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Labor and Employment.
Speaker Martin Romualdez said the enactment into law of crucial measure demonstrates the unwavering dedication of the administration to the welfare and prosperity of Filipinos.
“The Trabaho Para sa Bayan (TPB) Act underscores our government’s commitment to inclusivity, equity, and progress for all Filipinos. It is a testament to the President’s vision that a prosperous and thriving nation can only be built on the foundation of gainful employment and economic stability,” he added.
Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva said the law was a fulfilment of the Philippines’ commitment to the International Labor Organization’s Employment Policy Convention, which calls for an active employment policy to be pursued as a major macroeconomic goal.
PH...
“We have sovereign rights. This is our future. We are an archipelagic country and we need the resources,” Teodoro said before he headed for a Senate hearing on his department’s budget.
Teodoro also refuted the assertion by the Chinese Foreign Ministry that the Philippines provoked them by removing the floating barrier.
He said it was clear from China’s actions that they want to control the entire South China Sea, which goes against the ruling of a UN tribunal in 2016 that Beijing’s expansive claims to the key waterway have no legal basis.
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin, in a press briefing yesterday, said Manila’s action was a purely self-indulgent farce.”
“I would also like to reiterate once again. Huangyan Island is China’s inherent territory,” he said.
“China will continue to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in Huangyan Island,” he added.
Teodoro said Scarborough Shoal is a traditional fishing ground where Filipino fishermen can benefit from its rich marine resources.
Teodoro also said it was China that has taken provocative actions, such as building up military facilities in reclaimed areas of the disputed waters and chasing Filipino fishermen from the area.
The PCG on Wednesday told fishermen to continue their fishing despite the presence of Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea.
“That’s the intention of our government, to encourage more Filipino fishermen to fish in the Bajo de Masinloc and some other areas in the West Philippine Sea,” PCG spokesperson for West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela, referring to Panatag Shoal by its traditional Spanish name.
“You have the commitment of our Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
From A1 House... From A1
“So far that’s what we have identified, but we’re still looking at other sources,” he said.
“The House leadership will exercise its mandate with care and determination to ensure that public funds are used properly and where the money is needed most for the good of the country,” Co added.
The joint statement issued on Wednesday by the House party heads reads: “Recognizing the rising security threats in the West Philippine Sea and the need to secure top officials, these agencies are better positioned to counteract security threats, protect our territorial waters, and secure the rights and access of Filipino fishermen to traditional fishing grounds.”
Data from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) showed that total con-
Resigned...
From A1
“There’s my proof, the problem with ‘laglag-bala’ (dropping bullets into luggage). Perhaps in the past, the problem was not highlighted because no one was caught. Based on our records, for the past several years, no OTS personnel have been dismissed for violation of our disciplinary policies,” he said.
Aplasca was the chief of the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (Avsegroup) during the term of President Rodrigo Duterte and said
(BFAR) and PCG, although we are not constantly present in the area, we are going to increase our patrols in Bajo de Masinloc and other fishing grounds for Filipino fishermen,” Tarriela said.
Tarriela issued the statement after the PCG removed the floating barrier set up by China on Monday around Bajo de Masinloc. Even the barrier’s anchor was removed, he said.
Before the Senate, Teodoro defended the removal of the Chinese floating barrier.
“We are reacting to their actions. They moved first, they blocked our fishers,” he said.
He also blasted China for saying the country’s BRP Sierra Madre, which was deliberately grounded on Ayungin Shoal to serve as an outpost in the West Philippine Sea, was polluting the waters.
In an interview, Teodoro said it was China’s activities that endangered the marine ecosystem in the area.
“The swarming of their vessels alone would likely cause pollution,” he said in Filipino. “Who destroyed the marine environment to create an island? They did.”
Teodoro likened China’s statement to the “pot calling the kettle black.”
House Deputy Minority leader and ACT Teachers Partylist Rep. France Castro denounced the Chinese Foreign Ministry for accusing the Philippines of intruding in Scarborough Shoal “without their permission.”
In a statement, Castro expressed her disbelief at China’s audacity in making such claims.
“Excuse me, it is the Chinese government who is intruding in our territory and exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Now they have the temerity to say that we need their permission for our fisherfolk to fish in our own waters,” Castro said.
Castro emphasized that China should recognize the reality that other countries exist in Asia and have their own territories. She emphasized that the Philippines has sovereign rights over Scarborough Shoal and its surrounding waters.
“China should wake up from its delusion and face reality. The Philippines has every right to protect its ter-
fidential and intelligence funds proposed for 2024 amounts to P10.142 billion. The amount is higher by P120 million than the P10.02 billion set aside for the CIF in 2023.
The DBM defines in the National Expenditure Program (NEP) intelligence funds as those “related to intelligence information gathering activities of uniformed and military personnel and intelligence practitioners” having direct impact to national security. Confidential funds, on the other hand, are those “related to surveillance activities in civilian government agencies that are intended to support the mandate or operations of the agency.”
In the joint statement, the lawmakers said they view China’s recent installation of a floating barrier in Bajo de Masinloc “with serious concern” as it “not only impedes the rights and livelihoods of our Filipino fishermen but also disrupts the prevailing atmosphere of
his priority then was to eliminate the “tanim-bala” practice.
He submitted his courtesy resignation as OTS chief late Tuesday, a day after House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez demanded it following the principle of command responsibility after the series of thefts at the country’s premier international airport involving OTS personnel.
Romualdez threatened to block congressional approval of the 2024 budget of the Department of Transportation and the OTS, its attached agency, if Aplasca did not leave his post.
Aplasca said he resigned voluntarily to avoid jeopardizing the DOTr’s budget
ritorial integrity and ensure the welfare of its people. China has no right to dictate our actions within our own territory,” she added.
From A1 Philippines...
Castro called on the government to assert its sovereignty and defend the rights of Filipino fishers in Scarborough Shoal. She also urged the Department of Foreign Affairs to take diplomatic action to address China’s baseless accusations.
“We must stand firm against China’s attempts to undermine our sovereignty.
The Philippine government must prioritize the welfare and interests of our people, especially our fisherfolk who heavily rely on the resources in Scarborough Shoal,” Castro said.
She also called on the international community to condemn China’s actions and support the Philippines in upholding its territorial rights.
Retired Supreme Court justice Antonio Carpio, who played a key role in the Philippines’ suit against China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), said China cannot control who can fish inside Scarborough Shoal.
In an interview with ABS-CBN, Carpio said the Philippines was absolutely right in removing the barrier, saying the 2016 arbitral ruling clearly states that the area is a common fishing ground.
He also supported President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s move to strengthen the country’s alliances with other states amid Beijing’s aggressive behavior in the South China Sea.
Carpio likened the Scarborough issue to a condominium where there is common ownership of common areas, and not just one owner.
Any move to regulate fishing in the area should be agreed upon by China, Vietnam and the Philippines, he said.
“They cannot decide on their own who is allowed to fish there. One of the parties cannot dictate on the others,” he said in Filipino.
He said the Philippines could file for damages against China, except that Beijing has refused to recognize even the 2016 arbitral ruling.
regional peace and collaboration.”
Senators, too, have agreed to reallocate funds to certain agencies for intelligence activities.
In a message to reporters, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said, “We have agreed in the Senate to do the same. We also will be reallocating funds that we feel are not necessary for the use of certain agencies and allocate them to our intelligence community as well as our Coast Guard and the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines).”
Asked if the confidential funds lodged with the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education might be reallocated, Zubiri said: “We shall review all agencies.”
Earlier, Zubiri said the CIF in the proposed 2024 national budget allocated to government agencies which do not need the funding will be slashed and realigned by the Senate.
approval pending in Congress.
“In view of the pronouncement of Congressman Romualdez that he will personally block the approval of the budget of OTS and DOTr, I have come to this decision to officially submit my courtesy resignation for the consideration of SOTr and the President,” he said in his letter.
“I am not in any way ready to sacrifice my organization, but I consider this as a noble undertaking for a greater interest,” Aplasca said in his letter addressed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. through Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista.
“May I, however, state that as Administrator of OTS, I have done nothing
From A1
US Army chief Randy George said the region was “critically important,” speaking to reporters alongside his Indian counterpart Manoj Pande, and vowed to boost cooperation to “maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.” Nations present at the two-day conference in New Delhi included Vietnam and the Philippines, both of which have long-standing pending territorial disputes with China.
Samasama “is a bilateral exercise between the United States Navy (USN) and the Philippine Navy (PN) that aims to further strengthen international defense cooperation and advance a rules-based international order,” Ileto said in a statement.
The exercise would enhance the Philippine Navy’s naval warfare capabilities, which include anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-air warfare, and electronic warfare.
“The training will also strive to further improve maritime integration and combined interoperability with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), Royal Australian Navy, Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), and the United Kingdom (UK) Royal Navy through subject-matter expert exchanges (SMEE) and humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) table-top events,” said Ileto.
Meanwhile, the French Navy (FN) and Royal Australian Navy (RAN) will also send personnel to join the SMEEs, while the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) and Indonesian Navy (IN) will be in the exercise as observers.
The opening ceremony will be held on October 2 at the Philippine Navy Headquarters in Manila.
In India, generals from Japan and Australia, which make up the “Quad” defense cooperation forum alongside Washington and New Delhi, also took part, as did Britain and France. With AFP
Under the proposed 2024 national budget, the CIF allocated to the Department of National Defense is only P97 million while NICA is alotted P341.2 million. Zubiri said NICA and NSC will need additional intelligence funds to beef up the fight against cybercrime. He said the AFP will also need additional intelligence funds for its cybersecurity division for the same purpose.
Zubiri also vowed to augment the budget of the Defense Department, the AFP and the PCG to deal with the continuing Chinese incursions into the country’s exclusive economic zone. “Courage can only take us so far. And that is why, if we really want to truly defend our country and our seas, we must support their budget. Not only the budget that they have now… We’re going to support, through the efforts of the Senate, an increase in their budget, especially in the defense spending,” Zubiri said.
wrong but to wage an honest campaign against corruption in all our airports nationwide. I feel it is a sacred duty of every head of any government agency to be expressed and solemnized when we take an oath,” he said.
“It is just unfortunate that as we weed out the scalawags in our ranks, it will always draw media attention and tarnish the reputation of our country. But I can assure His Excellency that the good men and women of OTS will not falter in their commitment to cleanse its ranks to finally deliver your promise of a convenient, affordable, safe, and secured transportation system.”
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday warned police officers that corruption and abuse of power have “no room” under his administration.
During the oathtaking of the second batch of newly promoted Philippine National Police star-rank officers, Mr. Marcos reminded them to uphold the highest standards of ethics and human rights.
“In the New Philippines that we are
promoting, there is no room for corruption, abuse of power, and other forms of wrongdoing and illegal activities in our police force,” he said.
“As officials, you are responsible for ensuring that all PNP personnel uphold
the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, and respect for human rights. I also expect that you will lead by example so that every officer and member under your command will adhere to these same principles,” he added.
Public trust, the President said, is the foundation of effective law enforcement, noting that the public should see reforms and positive changes in the police force.
Mr. Marcos also reminded police officers to prioritize dialogue and collaboration within the communities that they
serve to nurture mutual respect and support from the public.
He assured the PNP that the government would find ways to pursue modernization in the police force and vowed to equip cops with the latest technology, training, and resources to bolster their capabilities.
“This will enable you to contribute in maintaining peace, which is the backbone of our society’s stability and well-being. Hand-in-hand, let us lead our nation towards genuine and meaningful transformation,” he said.
A REMODELED and modernized primary care facility in the municipality of San Fernando, Cebu was recently handed over by SM Foundation to the local government unit headed by Mayor Mytha Canoy.
During the turnover ceremony, Canoy conveyed the municipality’s gratitude to SM for the modern healthcare and wellness facility, equipped to provide quality medical services to local residents.
“We are proud to have SM Foundation as a partner in our mission to enhance the lives of our constituents,” she said.
SM Foundation’s initiative involved a comprehensive overhaul and providing the facility with new medical tools and equipment to directly address the
health needs of the community and ensure access to essential health care needed.
With its improvement, the facility is now re-accredited by PhilHealth. Sustainable solutions were also integrated in the physical infrastructure such as the installation of a rainwater catchment system, energy-efficient LED lighting fixtures and inverter-type of appliances. Regionally sourced plants were used to accentuate the facility and special air-cleaning paints were used in the center.
SM Foundation also provided the health center with a mobile play cabinet for children and a breastfeeding room. This is the 197th health center renovated by SM Foundation.
THE Department of Foreign Affairs is coordinating with the government of Canada after former Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. was held by the latter’s immigration. The DFA said it was hoping “to get a
better understanding of the incident soon” as it already got in touch with Canadian authorities regarding the matter.
Initial reports said Canadian authorities invited Azurin to shed light on the conduct of the drug war in the Philippines.
Azurin said he suspects Police Lt. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia as having “tipped off” Canadian Immigration
with “half-truths and many lies.” “Sermonia had been spreading lies about my alleged ‘deportation.’ Maybe he knows something that everyone in our country does not know. Maybe, it was him who tipped the Canadian Immigration by concocting half truths and many lies and had been hoping that I would be deported. He
By Maricel V. Cruz
SPEAKER Martin Romualdez underscored the need to amend the outdated and restrictive economic provisions of
the 1987 Constitution to attract more foreign investments, create jobs, open income opportunities for our people, and spur development.
In his message during the Philippine Constitution Association (Philconsa) Day Tuesday evening, Romualdez said amending the Charter’s restrictive economic provisions could redefine the country’s economic future.
“Our Constitution, as noble and well-intentioned as it is, has elements that are no longer adaptive to our needs,” said Romualdez, leader of the 311-member House of Representatives and president of Philconsa.
Romualdez cited the following provisions: Article XII, Section 10, mandating a 60-40 ownership in favor of Filipinos in the development of natural resources; Article XVI, Section 11, limiting mass media ownership exclusively to Filipino citizens; and Article XII, Section 11, capping foreign ownership of land.
had been sending messages about my deportation— sorry, but that was not what happened,” he said.
“In due time I will issue my statement and face the media to tell what happened,” Azurin added.
Sermonia, however, denied the accusation, noting that Azurin is not only his mistah but also his brother-in-law.
“Amending these provisions isn’t just a matter of law—it’s about transforming the opportunities available to every Filipino. It’s about catalyzing a new era of prosperity, characterized by more robust economic growth, technological advancement, job creation, and ultimately, a better quality of life for each and every citizen,” he said.
Although these provisions were drafted with patriotic intentions, Romualdez said these regulations have unintended adverse consequences, such as limiting job creation, among others.
TO CELEBRATE the end of ghost month two weeks ago, a Chinoy friend tendered dinner for some Filipino-Chinese current and former government officials who fully or partly trace their ancestors from the Middle Kingdom.
One of the invitees, a high official in the current administration, asked me what I was doing these days, and when I responded by saying “happily retired,” he said: “Ang lakas mo pa, ah.”
Indeed I thank the good Lord for having given me relatively good health compared to classmates who have either passed away too soon or have aged considerably.
Maybe it’s the genes, especially from my maternal side, although my grandfather and an uncle’s life were cut short by Japanese atrocities during the “liberation” of Luzon.
I was a young entrepreneur in the martial law years, after graduating from college, and, interspersed through those years, I dabbled in part-time teaching just to keep my brains fed with reading and interaction.
Then, after some travels around the world, I decided to see if I would prefer living in the US of A, but that was where my chance meeting with then exile Ninoy Aquino changed the course of my life.
He encouraged me to go back to the country and help organize the political opposition to the authoritarian regime of our president’s father.
And I did, with then assemblyman and former senator Salvador “Doy” Laurel, whom Ninoy described to me as his best friend, “more than a brother to me.”
friends, meeting over lunch and discussing political and economic issues.
On Thursdays, over another sumptuous lunch, I join a group formed since the fall of Erap, and still going strong 22 years after, halted only during the lockdown years.
It is composed of current and former government officials along with big businessmen and corporate executives, where again the discussions range from the mundane to the sublime.
In both groups, the members are of different political stripes, from yellow to red to blue and green, with no one I believe to have supported the recent pinks.
The businessmen have survived every government from Marcos Sr. to Marcos Jr. because of their acumen and sharp instincts.
Twice a month, to keep myself feeling younger, because the Wednesday and Thursday groups are made up of almost completely senior citizens, I join a small group of younger men in their 40s and 50s, where I am the only person possessed of a senior citizen discount card.
Two were former journalists who served in government as well, three are successful entrepreneurs, one a champion sportsman, and occasionally we invite another friend or two.
Once a month, I join former high officials of the Duterte administration over dinner and premium wines provided by a member who is a certified vin connoisseur.
This way, the boredom of retirement is assuaged by good company and good banter.
But of course, bliss is provided by six grandchildren whose ages range between an eight-month- old infant, all the way to a young man of 18, two of whom visit with their parents from a foreign country each year.
The lawmaker has therefore filed a bill defining their rights and fundamental freedoms.
Senate Bill 2447 asserts that human rights defenders (HRDs) are “treated with contempt, even threatened with violence” and “often subjected to summary execution, enforced disappearance, false labeling and red-tagging, and malicious prosecution” despite helping protect and promote human rights and fundamental freedoms of Filipinos.
The bill wants to guarantee the protection of the rights and fundamental freedoms of HRDs, specify the obligations of the State to ensure the enjoyment of these rights and freedoms, and impose appropriate sanctions to counter impunity.
The proposed measure is convinced “the rights of HRDs must be fully recognized and the duties of public authorities institutionalized” since “human rights are fundamental anchors of our democratic society.”
Senate Bill 2447 seeks to respect, protect, and promote the following rights: (1) to form groups, associations and organizations; (2) to
hold peaceful assemblies; (3) to seek, receive and disseminate information; (4) to have privacy;
(5) to develop and advocate human rights ideas;
(5) to solicit, receive and utilize resources; and
(6) to access, communicate and cooperate with international and regional human rights bodies and mechanisms.
Thus did we organize the United Nationalist Democratic Organization or UNIDO.
I had been postmaster-general when the postal service was yet a bureau under the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, later a department, then much later divided into two departments: the DoTr and DICT.
Then I was appointed by President Erap as his Philippine Tourism Authority general manager with the pay grade of an undersecretary, and, days later, he wanted me to serve concurrently as Presidential Adviser for Political Affairs, from which I drew no emoluments to avoid double compensation.
Interspersed through the appointive positions, I was a consultant to Vice President Laurel, Senator Orly Mercado, Senate President Marcelo B. Fernan, Rep. Hernando B. Perez, Rep. Ronaldo B. Zamora, and Senator Panfilo M. Lacson.
I also wrote columns for the Tribune of the late Ninez Cacho Olivarez, Malaya and Abante of the late Jake Macasaet, and of course, this paper.
In President PNoy’s time, I was administrator of the National Food Authority until I decided to make a run for a congressional seat in the midterm elections of 2013, but a heart angioplasty sidelined me and I had to forego the campaign upon my family’s insistence.
When President Duterte won in 2016, he asked me what position I preferred, and I replied that I wanted to be in a less active post, opting to be Chairman of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei, our de facto embassy in Taiwan.
I stayed there until the middle of 2021, when I resigned to take active participation in yet another presidential campaign.
So how do I spend my retirement or semiretirement these days?
To begin with, and to make myself au courant on events in the country and region, I write twice for this esteemed paper.
I have kept a close circle of lunch and dinner friends. On Wednesdays, it is a group of mostly former government officials and businessmen-
By Melandrew T. VelascoEVERY year one learns about performances of companies not only in the Philippines but also worldwide from articles based on studies by organizations that review these.
These are helpful information to investors, businessmen, and even to students of finance and financial management services.
These annual reviews have become customary; and for those companies in the top tier these are testaments to their best business practices.
This month, the new annual TIME World’s Best Companies list for 2023 featured 750 companies throughout the globe. The list was a result of the partnership with Statista that had 150,000 participants from 58 countries.
With the nation grappling with the adverse effects of high fuel prices and increasing prices of basic commodities, it is refreshing news to learn that six Philippine corporations are among those in the list namely: Ayala Corporation, San Miguel Corporation, Jollibee Foods Corporation, PLDT, Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co., and BDO Unibank, Inc.
As a Filipino, it is my great pride and pleasure to congratulate these companies. They have demonstrated that Filipino companies are
From time to time, I am able to travel, by land or air to the provinces, and, in my latest such trip, I sat with Mayor Benjie Magalong of Baguio City, where I had an interesting conversation with a friend I have long admired.
At times, I sit with a tycoon or two from the Forbes list, with whom I get incisive first- hand information about the state of our economy.
And along with family or friends, I am able to travel abroad, where a sense of frustration greets me at the NAIA, from departure to arrival, although the state of Terminal One is much improved, thanks to the innovative efforts of an acting manager who was deposed unfairly by the Ombudsman.
I shun NAIA Terminal Three which is almost always in a state of pure bedlam.
The sense of frustration deepens when you compare the state of our benighted land with neighboring countries. Never mind Japan or Europe or even Singapore, which have left us eons of years away.
My grand-uncles used to talk about a Taiwan that was comparably so poor in the 50s and 60s, but look at where they are now, sans a bounty of natural resources the Philippines has been gifted with, and wasted away.
At the ASEAN, we used to talk about the founding fathers: Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and our country. Even Indonesia with twice and a half our population has pulled away.
I have been to Thailand and Malaysia in the early 80s, and, boy, how their economies have left us eating the dust. We used to refer to the laggards as the VLMC, meaning Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia.
Now our ASEAN brothers have relegated us to PLMC, because Vietnam is surging ahead, with an economic and investment momentum that will bring tears to our eyes.
Through the bliss or bore, the saddest element is to note the deterioration of our once beautifully livable country into what could soon be a basket case, where the same problems haunt us and where the increasing mass of poor people exist in wretched poverty against the excessive greed of the few who lord it over us all.
JUST when everyone was beginning to think a deal has been reached between the House of Representatives and the DOF with regard to MUP pension reforms, Finance Secretary Ben Diokno just poured cold water on the Bill being proposed by the House. He believes the House solution does not go far enough in averting a looming financial catastrophe due to the unsustainable MUP pension benefits. He is sticking with his original demand there must be mandatory contribution by everyone including those already in the service and no automatic indexation.
To him, these two issues are non-negotiable.
He thinks he can strike a better deal in the Senate where some Senators are apparently sympathetic to his advocacy.
As he said himself, the pension debate is far from over. By the looks of it, he has taken this as a personal crusade.
Trouble is, he picked the country’s uniformed services as his bogeyman. Let us hope, however, that there is not more to this than meets the eye.
This is because after the House Committee passed its pension reform bill, the Secretary remarked in an interview he does not believe the pensions being received by MUP retired personnel are pensions because they never contributed towards their retirement benefits.
Is he saying these benefits are not deserved?
That was a shocking statement if he was quoted correctly – especially coming from him.
In all the brouhaha about MUP pensions, never did DOF say whether we are the only country paying our retired uniformed service personnel out of the national budget. Never did they mention either if we are the only country that does not require its MUPs to contribute towards their retirement.
No comparison with other countries, at least in the ASEAN region, has been made public to see if we are the only country pampering its uniformed personnel with lavish retirement benefits.
This is important because I tried to look at other countries doing what they want to do here and I cannot find any. Almost all countries I have come across pay MUP retirement benefits from their national budgets.
That is simply the way it is done in almost all countries. What I found out instead is that, compared to other countries in the region, we are almost at the bottom of the totem pole when it comes to benefits.
For Secretary Diokno to blame the MUP pension benefits for the burden on the country’s financial resources is basically admitting the economic teams that have managed the country’s economy all these years have been utter failures.
If only these brilliant economists managed our economy well, we should not be having all these economic problems and we would all be a lot richer instead of being poor.
It also wants to protect freedom from intimidation and reprisal, as well as freedom of movement.
A similar bill has been filed in the House of Representatives, apparently by the Makabayan bloc. House Bill 77 or the “Human Rights Defenders’ Protection Act” which defines “human rights defenders” as any person who, individually or in association with others, acts or seeks to act to protect, promote or strive for the protection and realization of human rights and fundamental freedoms and people’s welfare.
It hurdled the committee level in March this year. The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), however, has expressed vehement opposition to the proposed House bill, calling it “a grave, vicious, and insidious threat” to democracy as it would make existing laws against terrorism, money laundering and terrorism financing prevention and suppression as “toothless paper tigers.”
But if human rights advocacy is considered by the NTF-ELCAC as part of the terrorist playbook and human rights defenders as “terrorists,” isn’t that going overboard and runs counter to the 1987 Constitution’s clear and unequivocal provisions on the rights and fundamental freedoms of all citizens in a democratic system?
of the road solution.
Not all sides will be getting what they want but is a good start for a possible compromise and, more importantly, it will delay the socalled fiscal collapse giving the government a better wiggle room to solve the problem.
The good Secretary, however, is not satisfied and is still pushing for his original demand.
The hardline position of Secretary Diokno, however, is mystifying considering the dooms day scenario he is painting is not going to happen next year or the next but several years down the road.
By the time it happens. if ever, he would have been retired. By that time also as the government itself has been bragging, the size of our economy would have gone up to a trillion dollars which will give the government more flexibility to confront the financial problem.
Secretary Diokno should, therefore, not insist on solving this MUP pension problem all at once.
The good Secretary’s economic team should instead focus its attention on growing the economy so that the percentage of funds supporting MUP pension benefits will become smaller every year in relation to our total financial resources.
As it is, this is the only country in the region complaining about pension benefits being paid to its retired police and military veterans.
The good Secretary may not realize it but after retirement it is only the pension benefits that will sustain veterans in their twilight years.
Maintenance medicine alone is very expensive, not to mention if a retiree has existing medical conditions or is in need of hospitalization.
There is actually only one military veteran’s hospital in the country and none for the police. After retirement, veterans are basically left to fend for themselves. The Bill that just left the House is a middle
earnings during the pandemic were affected.
world-class and globally competitive.
Two of these, Ayala Corporation and San Miguel Corporation, which are topnotchers in the list of Filipino companies, are among the oldest companies in the country, having been around for more than a century.
Founded in 1890 as a brewery in the Philippines, SMC has evolved to be among the most diversified companies in the country.
Its business portfolio covers food manufacturing, fuel and oil, poultry, power generation, packaging and infrastructure.
San Miguel Corporation was ranked No. 347 with an overall score of 83.08. It had a very high growth rate and employee satisfaction rank of 67.
“We are honored to be one of six Filipino companies that made it to TIME Magazine’s World’s Best Companies of 2023,” SMC President and CEO Ramon S. Ang said.
According to him, being included in the list is more than just a company achievement. “It’s a testament to Filipino excellence,” he added.
Cultivating excellence has become the driving force for companies to become competitive in the global stage.
It is not surprising that SMC got high employee satisfaction rating. SMC earlier on was recognized as Top Employer of the Year
at the 2021 Asia CEO Awards. It won over other companies based on criteria that included “outstanding leadership, improving employees’ professional careers, providing recognition, talent development, and social commitment and promoting work-life balance.”
It was also ranked 35th with a score of 8.99 among 300 companies in The Philippines’ Best Employers list which was a result of a project by Philippine Daily Inquirer and Statista. According to PDI “based on the research, the most important factors for employers to get a high rating from employees are benefits, trust and opportunities for personal development.” As with other businesses worldwide, SMC’s
But post-pandemic, SMC earnings bounced back with the increase in consolidated income with San Miguel Food and Beverage and SMC Infrastructure among the leading growth drivers.
Through SMC Infrastructure, the conglomerate has undertaken projects to provide seamless travel.
It operates the Metro Manila Skyway, NAIA Expressway, South Luzon Expressway, Star Tollway, and the Tarlac-Pangasinan, La Union Expressway.
SMC recognizes that intermodal infrastructure projects will further boost the country’s economic development.
Currently it is undertaking the MRT Line 7 and the New Manila International Airport in Bulacan with MRT 7 nearing completion. According to the website https://ppp.gov. ph/ MRT 7 involves an elevated railway line with 14 stations running from MRT 3 North Avenue in Quezon City to San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan.
It also has a road component involving a “22-kilometer asphalt road from Bocaue Interchange of the North Luzon Expressway to the intermodal terminal in Tala.
The road component will divert northern
He should be satisfied in being able to provide the right direction for a sustained reform process. Whether he agrees or not, prudence dictates it is better to proceed slowly on this issue due to the prevailing regional geopolitical situation that the country is navigating carefully.
He should also have faith in the ability of the succeeding generation of economic managers to be able to do their job and maybe even do it better than past economic teams.
Let us hope, therefore, the good Secretary can still be persuaded to be more flexible and accept a compromise solution.
Since the ball is now in the Senate, it will be up to the Senators whether to side with the DOF formula or accept the House proposal which was spearheaded by Congressman Joey Salceda who also knows a lot about finances.
The Senate should now be able move faster without any more delays and come out with its own version so that a new retirement law can finally be signed.
This is because there are people in both the military and police who are anxiously waiting for the final outcome so they can finally decide whether to stay or retire.
provincial buses operation to San Jose Del Monte, thereby decongesting EDSA.”
Meanwhile, SMC stated that site clearance for the airport is at 98.3 percent, land filling works at 66.59 percent and ground improvement works at 66.54 percent. SMC intends to commence commercial operations in 2026.
Over the years, SMC has actively contributed to the growth of the country’s economy. Its food and beverage products have become household names, among others.
It has participated and invested heavily in infrastructure projects to ensure economic progress can proceed smoothly.
RSA has previously stated that common to all projects across the conglomerate is SMC’s stronger push for nation-building and towards greater sustainability.
SMC’s noble purpose and commitment to invest in the Filipino future is commendable.
(The author, a book writer, is publisher of coffee-table books with a least 40 titles to his name. He is also the president and executive director of the Million Trees Foundation Inc, a non-government outfit advocating tree planting and watershed protection.)
IF HUMAN rights defenders are an endangered species, Senator Risa Hontiveros believes what they need is adequate protection from harassment and prosecution.
SMC’s noble purpose and commitment to invest in the Filipino future is commendable
Through the bliss or bore, the saddest element is to note the deterioration of our once beautifully livable country into what could soon be a basket case
There are people in both the military and police who are anxiously waiting for the final outcome so they can finally decide whether to stay or retire
The Senate bill also wants to protect freedom from intimidation and reprisal, as well as freedom of movement
Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman announced on Wednesday the release of P705 million to the Department of Transportation for two projects that will benefit bikers in metropolitan areas.
In a statement, she said the Active Transport Bike Share System and Safe Pathways Program in Metropolitan Areas aimed to embed sustainable and active mobility in the country’s overall transportation system.
Pangandaman said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was very particular when he directed the DBM to provide the necessary budgetary support to the transport sector.
“Achieving an improved transportation system toward a better quality of life for all Filipinos calls for a multisectoral approach,” she said.
RIDING ACADEMY OPENING. Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Romando Artes drives a motorcycle as he leads the inauguration of the MMDA Motorcycle Riding Academy which aims to decrease motorcycle-related accidents by providing theoretical and practical courses on motorcycle riding. (See story below) Manny Palmero
THE House of Representatives has unanimously approved on third and final reading a measure that seeks to give more teeth to the existing Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act, or Republic Act (RA) 10845 by including life imprisonment against agri-smugglers.
House Bill (HB) 9284, also known as the Anti Agri-Fishery Commodities and Tobacco Economic Sabotage Act, garnered 289 “yes” votes during nominal voting at past midnight Wednesday.
The smuggling of rice and other agricultural products is classified as “economic sabotage” under the measure--a crime punishable by life imprisonment.
“Malapit nang matapos ang mga maliligayang araw ng mga smugglers, hoarders, at ang mga nagca-cartel. Your days are numbered. Once this bill is enacted, we will use its provisions to the fullest in order to prosecute these evil-doers who made our kababayans suffer,” Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez said.
The advancement HB 9284 took place alongside the plenary debates on the P5.768-trillion General Appropriations Bill (GAB) or proposed national budget for 2024.
The measure’s full title reads, “An Act declaring large-scale agri-fisheries commodities and tobacco smuggling, hoarding, profiteering, cartelizing, and other Acts of market abuse as economic sabotage, Amending for the purpose Republic Act 10845, otherwise known as the AntiAgricultural Smuggling Act of 2016.”
Romualdez, leader of the 311-strong House of Representatives and the fourth highest-ranked official in the land, earlier said that the hopes the measure would have a chilling effect on the individuals in the agriculture sector that take advantage of hapless consumers.
MORE than 500 barangays in the country have no candidates that will run for the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), according to the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
Comelec Chairperson George Garcia also said that most of the barangays in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have no candidates.
In a television interview, poll spokesman Rex Laudiangco said the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) would have jurisdiction over barangays without candidates.
Q&A WITH THE PRESS. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez answers questions from members of the Manila Overseas Press Club during the Q&A portion of the Philippine Constitution Association (Philconsa) Day and Senate Night at Fairmont Hotel in Makati City on Tuesday night. Ver Noveno
“The DILG will instruct local government executives to appoint officials in areas that had no candidates,” Laudiangco said.
He said current barangay officials will remain as incumbents or the DILG may exercise its jurisdiction and appoint a caretaker for the vacant positions.
Meanwhile, the Comelec earlier said that more than half of the candi-
dates in the BARMM are running unopposed in the barangay and SK elections this October.
BARMM Comelec director Ray Sumalipao said they have registered around 60,500 candidates vying for various positions in the barangay and youth councils in the region.
Approximately 60% of those who filed their certificates of candidacy are running unopposed, he said.
“Unopposed candidates will only need a single vote to win,” the Comelec official said.
The Comelec further said it will not allow barangays to conduct barangay assemblies.
According to Garcia, the DILG sought the opinion of the poll regulator with regard to the conduct of barangay assemblies ahead of the BSKE.
THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Wednesday said it is accelerating the production of license plates in a bid to address the backlog for both motor vehicles and motorcycles.
LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II said they have already
ordered around 15.9 million metal plates and around one million have already been delivered to the agency for embossing.
The Department of Transportation earlier said that it will take over two years before the 13 million backlog on license plates will be addressed, which is mostly for motorcycles and for replacement of plates from the old green
THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Wednesday officially opened its Motorcycle Riding Academy in Pasig City, aiming to provide basic knowledge on handling and operating motorcycles with a focus on safe riding.
The academy will hold free training for individuals aged 17 years old and above, accommodating 100 participants per batch. Motorcycles will be provided by the academy.
“This will address undisciplined riders change their mindset when on the road,” said MMDA chairman Romando Artes.
The MMDA reported a significant rise in motorcycle-related deaths and crashes since 2015.
Vice President and concurrent Department of Education Secretary Sara Duterte expressed her support for the project, stating that it will assist in mitigating risks by equipping riders with the necessary knowledge and abilities for riding safely.
“Motorcycles are a common mode of transportation in Metro Manila and the rest of the nation, but they are also among the most vulnerable vehicles on the road. The academy will assist in mitigating risks by equipping riders with the necessary knowledge and abilities for riding safely,” said Duterte.
plates to the new white plates.
“We already have machines that will be used in the embossing of the license plates and we will start the full production this October (2023),” Mendoza said.
The machines, according to Mendoza, include two robotic ones and nine semi-manual ones that would be capable of producing around 42,000 license
plates per day.
“It will take over two years to finish the entire 13 million backlog but while we are doing that, we will be able to cater to the current usage of plates by October this year. The goal is to release the license plate for all the newly-bought motorcycles so that they would not be included in the backlog,” said Mendoza.
“... We will ensure to provide support to this meaningful project. We are one with the bikers and advocates of active transport in giving them a comfortable and safe space on the road,” Pangandaman said. Aside from increasing the accessibility of key activity areas and fundamental facilities through supporting the development of active transport, the program will also prioritize providing a sustainable transportation option that is cohesive, direct, safe, comfortable, and attractive to the public.
Julito G. RadaTHE Department of Agriculture (DA) has committed to simplifying the estimated 50 requirements needed by farmers, fisherfolk and cooperatives to receive assistance.
At the plenary budget deliberation of the proposed 2024 DA budget, AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert T. Lee revealed that an estimated P14.95 billion out of 19.63 billion pesos of the department’s 2023 budget for major post-harvest programs remain unutilized as of the 2nd quarter of this year.
“...We want the agency to spend the budget, help our people, and save lives,” Lee stated adding that legislators craft the budget with the objective of “not savings but service.”
According to the solon, one of the reasons funding for pre-harvest and post-harvest activities to cooperatives and agricultural workers is not disbursed is the failure of agricultural workers and cooperatives to comply with myriad, cumbersome requirements.
During the said budget deliberation, Lee lamented that Congress’ efforts to allocate billions of funding for crucial services for farmers and fishermen are all in vain if these remain unutilized. Maricel V. Cruz
THE National Housing Authority (NHA) has officially awarded lots to 66 families who are long-time residents of Barangay Sta. Lucia, Pasig City.
Kristiansen Gotis, NHA East Sector officer in charge, along with Monn Alexander Ong, represented NHA general manager Joeben Tai and spearheaded the distribution of lot awards.
The 66 beneficiaries have been residing at the Soldier’s Village for about 10- 20 years now, and that the grant of lot awards certified their ownership of the lots, Gotis said.
The awarded lots are covered under Proclamation No. 458 signed by Former President Fidel V. Ramos on Aug. 29, 1994.
Under this Proclamation, untitled properties and titled government-owned lands located along the Manggahan Floodway in the municipalities of Cainta and Taytay, Rizal, and Pasig City totaling 123.993 hectares were transferred to the NHA to be used for the country’s socialized housing programs. Rio N. Araja
BI plans to use AI vs. corruption among ranks
By Vito BarceloTHE Bureau of Immigration (BI) is pursuing the modernization of airport operations to curb corruption, saying it will utilize artificial intelligence (AI) to lessen person-to-person contact, thus reducing graft and corruption.
BI commissioner Norman Tansingco said the bureau is also eyeing AI as part of its modernization initiatives, which they plan to implement by 2024 or 2025, wherein the passenger goes directly to the boarding gate.
“It will lessen the discretion of the immigration officer. Definitely, it will reduce the opportunity to commit graft or any abuse,” Tansingco added.
The BI chief said passengers will simply pass through a machine where their passports will be scanned and verified automatically and will reduce face-to-face interactions between passengers and officers, which may prevent dishonest employees from doing illegal acts.
Tansingco said with the modernization program, almost everything will be automated, “because if we automate, there will be no more conversations, it will all be machines.”
UNITED NATIONS, New York —United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila) against a new atomic arms race bringing the threat of “annihilation” to the world, as North Korea charged that its peninsula was on the brink of nuclear war.
With nuclear-armed nations expanding and modernizing their arsenals, the UN chief called for a revitalized push to reduce and eventually eliminate those weapons.
“A worrisome new arms race is brewing. The number of nuclear weapons could rise for the first time in decades,” Guterres told the General Assembly on the final day of its yearly session.
“Any use of a nuclear weapon -anytime, anywhere and in any context -- would unleash a humanitarian catastrophe of epic proportions,”
is held:
‘It is settled a Torrens title is evidence of indefeasible title to property in favor of the person in whose name the title appears. It is conclusive evidence with respect to the ownership of the sand described therein. It is also settled that the titleholder is entitled to all the attributes of ownership of the property, including possession. X x x.”
27. Plaintiffs now desire again to recover possession of the Subject Property. SECOND CAUSE OF ACTION
28. Plaintiffs replead the foregoing premises and further state:
28.1 Plaintiffs were deprived of all the beneficial use of their piece of land from the moment the Defendants surreptitiously and illegally entered therein since March, 2003 up to the present.
28.2. Defendants’ possession and occupation which is definitely illegal should be assessed with reasonable compensation in the amount of One Thousand (P1,000) per month with legal interest. Otherwise, Defendants would be made to have unjustly enriched themselves and will continue to be so at the Plaintiffs expense and damages, in violation of the time-honored principle on human relations under Article 19 and Article 22 of the Civil Code of the Philippines.
Xxx
28.3. As early as 1961, in the case of De Los Reyes vs. Pastorfide,
G.R. No. L-114516, June 30, 1961, the Supreme Court held that when an owner has been deprived of the use of his property, he is entitled to payment of reasonable rent, thus it held:
Xxx THIRD CAUSE OF ACTION
29. Plaintiffs repleads the foregoing premises and further state:
29.1. Defendants refusal to vacate after they had illegally entered into Subject Property forced the Plaintiffs to file two (2) complaints:
29.1.1. first, Civil Case No. 08-62619
he said.
“Nuclear sabers are again being rattled. This is madness. We must reverse course,” he said. Russia and the United States have by far the largest arsenals, but China’s has been growing quickly.
North Korea has also defied the world with its nuclear program and repeated missile tests.
In its own speech, one of the last of the week-long marathon of September’s UN General Assembly, North Korea accused arch-rival the United States of driving the penin-
sula “closer to the brink of nuclear war.”
Kim Song, North Korea’s ambassador to the United Nations, denounced South Korea’s actions under President Yoon Suk Yeol, a conservative who has worked to build tighter cooperation with the United States as well as historic rival Japan.
“Due to its sycophantic and humiliating policy of depending on outside forces,” Kim said, “the Korean peninsula is in a hair-trigger situation with imminent danger of nuclear war.”
He pointed to the recent formation of the Nuclear Consultative Group, through which the United States hopes to integrate its nuclear capacity better with South Korea’s conventional forces, with the two allies increasing information sharing and contingency planning.
Kim alleged that the group was “committed to the planning, operation and execution of preemptive nuclear strike against the DPRK,” the official name of the North, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. AFP
SYMBOLIC TRIP.
US President Joe Biden addresses striking members of the United Auto Workers union at a picket line outside a General Motors Service Parts Operations plant in Belleville, Michigan, on September 26 (Wednesday in Manila).
Some 5,600 members of the UAW walked out of 38 US parts and distribution centers at General Motors and Stellantis at noon September 22, adding to last week’s dramatic worker walkout. According to the White House, Biden is the first sitting president to join a picket line. AFP
BELLEVILLE, United States—Joe Biden became the first sitting US president to stand on a picket line Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila), joining striking auto workers in Michigan in a bold pitch for blue collar votes against likely election rival Donald Trump.
Wearing a United Auto Workers (UAW) union baseball cap, the Democrat used a bullhorn to tell red-shirted employees they deserved “a hell of a lot more than what you’re getting.”
His short but symbolic trip came a day before Republican former president Trump visits Michigan, the historic heart of the US car industry and a key battleground for the 2024 election campaign.
“They’re doing incredibly well and guess what, you should be do-
ing incredibly well too,” Biden said to cheers from placard-waving union members.
Sporting a blue zip-up top with a presidential seal, Biden urged automakers Ford, General Motors and Stellantis to “step up for us.”
Biden then shook hands with union workers, closely watched by Secret Service agents, and agreed when asked if employees should get a 40 percent increase.
“It meant a lot,” said Carolyn Nippa, 51, an inventory control employee at the GM plant after she fistbumped the US president.
“It’s very historic.”
The autoworkers strike that began on September 15 has increasingly become a political football for Biden and Trump as they head for a prob-
Manatad was included because he was the one who facilitated the other respondents in said complaint to enter into Plaintiffs’ Subject Property premises.
11. In the hearing called by the Tanggapan ng Lupong Tagapamayapa of said Barangay North Fairview, only respondents Beth Garrido and Basilio attended while the other respondents Betty Tiopes, Garet Tiopes and Roger Manatad repeatedly failed to attend.
12. On January 20, 2007 in one of the hearings conducted before said Tanggapan ng Lupong Tagapamayapa, respondents Basilio Lacaba and Beth Garrido confessed,
that broke out during a wedding at an event hall in al-Hamdaniyah, Iraq on Wednesday. At least 100 people were killed and more than 150 injured when a fire broke out during a wedding at an event hall in the northern Iraqi town of Hamdaniyah, state media and health officials said. AFP
LACHIN Corridor, Azerbaijan—Azerbaijani border guards on Tuesday sought out “war crime” suspects among the Armenian refugees flooding out of Nagorno-Karabakh after Baku claimed control of the separatist statelet in a lightning offensive last week.
The number of people who entered Armenia following the operation surpassed 28,000, a day after a massive fuel blast on the edge of the separatist stronghold of Stepanakert killed at least 68 people, local authorities said.
Most of the victims were stocking up on fuel for the trip along a twisting mountain road that offers the historically disputed region its lone link to Armenia.
Yerevan has warned of possible “ethnic cleansing” by Azerbaijan—a close ally of Armenia’s arch-nemesis Turkey—after Baku launched a 24-hour blitz that forced the rebels to agree to disarm last Wednesday.
Predominantly Christian Armenia and overwhelmingly Muslim Azerbaijan have fought two deadly wars over the territory since the Soviet Union’s 1991 collapse.
The area is now populated by up to 120,000 ethnic Armenians but is internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan. AFP
able rematch next year.
Biden’s trip was designed to trumpet his pro-union credentials amid growing concerns about his poll ratings, his age and his struggles to get his economic message across.
The White House played up the historic element, with Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stressing it was the “first time a sitting president has visited a picket line in modern times.”
Biden’s trip also went down well with unions, whose support was crucial when he beat Trump in 2020.
The UAW’s outspoken chief Shawn Fain, who invited Biden to Detroit, greeted him on the tarmac and rode with him to the picket line in the presidential limousine dubbed “The Beast.” AFP
100 killed in Iraq wedding fire, 150 more injured
QARAQOSH, Iraq—At least 100 people were killed and more than 150 injured when a fire broke out during a wedding at an event hall in the northern Iraqi town of Qaraqosh, officials said early Wednesday.
At the main hospital in the predominantly Christian town east of Mosul, an AFP photographer saw ambulances arriving with sirens blaring and dozens of people gathering in the courtyard to donate blood.
Others could be seen gathering in front of the open doors of a refrigerated truck loaded with black body bags.
Citing a “preliminary tally,” Iraq’s official INA news agency reported that health authorities in Nineveh province had “counted 100 dead and more than 150 injured in the fire at a marriage hall in Hamdaniyah.” as the town is also known.
The casualty toll was confirmed to AFP by health ministry spokesman Saif al-Badr.
Badr said most of the injured were being treated for burns or oxygen deprivation, adding that there had also been crowd crushes at the scene.
In a statement, civil defense authorities reported the presence of prefabricated panels inside the event hall that were “highly flammable and contravened safety standards”.
The danger was compounded by the “release of toxic gases linked to the combustion of the panels.” which contained plastic. AFP
THE National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) agreed to fast-track the completion of the BatangasMindoro interconnection by 2025 or two years ahead of the 2027 target, the Department of Energy (DOE) said Wednesday.
DOE Undersecretary Rowena Guevara said the privately-run company agreed to complete the project “two years in advance.”
“DOE requested, and NGCP was cooperative,” Guevara said.
She said the completion of the transmission line would remove the universal charge for missionary electrification (UCME) subsidy for Mindoro. UCME
THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is teaming up with several agencies to harness the potential of “beneficial ownership” data in curbing corruption and supporting tax enforcement.
It said in a statement it is working with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and Open Ownership (OO) to host a dialog with various government agencies to discuss the application of beneficial ownership in public procurement, with the end view of mitigating corruption and improving the decisionmaking process.
A beneficial owner is a natural person who ultimately owns or exercises ultimate effective control over a corporation.
Beneficial owners may directly or indirectly have the power to vote or influence transaction decisions of the company, even without them being reported as a stockholder, member, director or officer.
“Beneficial ownership plays an important role in detecting indicators of bid rigging and conflicts of interest during the procurement process,”
SEC chairperson Emilio Aquino said.
“As such, it is important that we ensure there are few avenues for corrupt individuals to take advantage of the system,” he said.
The SEC also conducted a focus group discussion with officers of Bureau of Internal Revenue to explore how beneficial ownership data could be used to strengthen tax integrity and transparency.
It noted that tax evasion, often fueled by opaque ownership structures, has negative effect on a country’s economic stability and social development.
is imposed on electricity users in offgrid areas.
“If you are connected to the grid, our rule is [there should be] no more UCME,” Guevara said.
NGCP earlier said Mindoro Island was plagued by various power issues such as frequent power interruptions due to reliance on outdated power facilities, heavily subsidized generation rates
PROPERTY AWARDS.
Shang Properties Inc. (SPI) brings home three awards from the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards on Sept. 22, 2023 at Shangri-La at The Fort, Manila. Accepting the awards on behalf of SPI are (from left) SPI sales directors Nicole Amponin and Martin Gallaga, director for group sales Rose Morales and broker director Joe Brimer.
from diesel and bunker fuel, delays in proposed energy projects, uneven electrification rates across provinces and administrative issues of electric cooperatives.
The transmission operator said the best long-term solution to the inefficient power supply in the island is the interconnection to the Luzon grid, which would involve laying down submarine cable, installation of overhead transmission lines and development of substations.
“With the interconnection, Mindoro can already source adequate and reliable power supply and access to more competitive generation sources in the Luzon grid. Also, with a reliable transmission backbone, Mindoro may export power through the development of re-
newable power in the province,” NGCP said.
The project will also fulfill the government’s direction of interconnecting off-grid areas to the main grid and prepare the country for the planned ASEAN power grid interconnection.
The Batangas-Mindoro project was estimated in 2021 to cost P16.8 billion.
“With the forecasted increase in the demand, the current source of power can no longer accommodate the future load requirements. The implementation of the interconnection to the Luzon grid will resolve this issue by providing Mindoro with an access to a more reliable and competitive generation sources in the Luzon grid,” NGCP said.
THE National Innovation Council (NIC) launched the National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document (NIASD) for 2023-2032 on Sept. 27, 2023.
It said the launch with the theme “Reshaping the Future, Advancing Filipinnovation” aimed to ignite enthusiasm, foster collaboration and engage all innovation stakeholders in the implementation of the innovation agenda and strategies to promote Filipinnovation—the whole-of-nation call and commitment to accelerate Philippine progress through innovation.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who is also the NIC chairperson, led the event, along with National Economic and Development Authority Secretary
and vice chairperson Arsenio Balisacan and members of the council from the government and private sectors at the Manila Metropolitan Theater.
“The very theme of our event today signifies our envisioned future where our citizens can organically transform their knowledge and novel ideas into market-driven, market-oriented, and market-valued innovative products or services,” Balisacan said in his welcome remarks.
The NIASD, appproved on June 30, 2023, outlines the 10-year vision, longterm goals and strategies for improving the country’s innovation priorities and governance. It describes the country’s unwanted
and wanted futures, which are anchored on Filipinos’ collective aspiration for a matatag, maginhawa at panatag na buhay, or the AmBisyon Natin 2040.
The document is aligned with the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, which identifies the creation of a dynamic innovation ecosystem as one of its six cross-cutting strategies to sustain rapid and inclusive growth.
The plan also underscores the government’s commitment to providing an enabling environment that supports entrepreneurs and innovation actors, through five innovation enablers including the NIC as the innovation governing body, policies, infrastructure, finance and programs.
METRO Manila is far from making itself a resilient and sustainable habitat as defined by the United Nations. Heavy floods, smog or air pollution, and traffic jams are a fact of life in the metropolis. But policymakers must take the challenge of reversing these trends if they want a modern metropolis fit for human living.
Last week’s flash floods and smog in the capital region do not speak well for a bustling city that is trying to modernize and keep pace with other Asian cities. The smog over Metro Manila last week was alarming while floods that stalled traffic in many thoroughfares last Saturday exposed poverty and the uneven development in the region.
A short northbound stretch of EDSA near Gate 3 of Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City was submerged in up to 19 inches of floodwater before noon last Saturday. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reported that private vehicles and buses using the EDSA Bus Carousel at the innermost lane of EDSA were stuck and did not attempt to pass through the deep floodwaters. The flood nearly submerged the concrete barrier of the Bus Carousel, resulting in a long column of stranded vehicles that reached as far as Guadalupe in Makati City.
I also witnessed last week how the rapid urbanization of Metro Manila excluded many of our countrymen. At the height of the flood along a stretch of EDSA towards Balintawak shortly before noon last
Saturday, a family of three or four emerged from under a bridge. A small river, I believe it’s San Juan River, had threatened to overflow and spill over to EDSA. The family clearly escaped the raging river and abandoned their shack under the bridge.
The poor family had to settle above the bridge for safety amid the downpour. One child covered his head with lona, or canvas, to shield himself from the rain, while the father clutched his one-yearold baby and protected the younger child from the bad weather.
The depressing sight is one of the symptoms of poorly planned urbanization that is Metro Manila, where over a dozen myopic mayors push their uncoordinated agendas.
As the UN describes it, the cost of poorly planned urbanization is seen in some of the huge slums, tangled traffic, greenhouse gas emissions and sprawling suburbs across the world.
The smog that hovered over Metro Manila for days, meanwhile, reflect the daily traffic congestion that motorists and passengers experience in their travel routine.
Local government units in Metro Manila had to suspend classes at all levels last week because of the heavy smog that enveloped the capital region. Many mistook the heavy smog for volcanic smog, or vog, from the restless Taal Volcano in the south.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) declared that the haze in the capital arose likely from
heavy vehicular emissions. Rhea Torres, a state weather forecaster, explains thermal inversion, in which the air is hotter than the surface temperature, kept pollutants produced by vehicular emissions from being dissipated.
Metro Manila and other urban centers in the world are grappling with inequality in development and the high levels of urban energy consumption and pollution. Cities, according to the UN, occupy just 3 percent of the Earth’s land, but account for 60 percent to 80 per cent of energy consumption and 75 percent of carbon emissions.
“Many cities are also more vulnerable to climate change and natural disasters due to their high concentration of people and location so building urban resilience is crucial to avoid human, social and economic losses,” says the UN.
The UN paints a gloomier scenario, noting that most of the urban growth is taking place in small cities and intermediate towns, exacerbating inequalities and urban poverty.
“In 2020, an estimated 1.1 billion urban residents lived in slums or slum-like conditions, and over the next 30 years, an additional 2 billion people are expected to live in such settlements, mostly in developing countries,” warns the UN.
Metro Manila obviously was not prepared for its rapid urbanization. It failed to meet the demands for housing, infrastructure and services of the residents, leading to a rise in slums or slum-like conditions.
Development inequality, says the UN, can lead to unrest and insecurity, while pollution deteriorates everyone’s health and affects workers’ productivity, and eventually the economy. E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com
Stocks surge on bargain hunting, window dressing LOCAL stocks surged Wednesday on continued bargain hunting and quarter-end window dressing.
The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index jumped 110.74 points, or 1.77 percent, to close at 6,374.68, while the broader all-shares index advanced by 51.50 points, or 1.53 percent, to settle at 3,412.88.
Philstocks Financial Inc. research analyst Claire Alviar said investors were taking the opportunity to buy shares at bargain levels.
“The market increased despite the possibility of an off-cycle interest rate and the likelihood of a prolonged high interest rate environment,” Alviar said.
Total value turnover reached P6 billion, while foreign investors were net sellers by P301 million. Jenniffer B. Austria Indonesia bans sales of goods on social media
JAKARTA—Indonesia has banned goods transactions on social media platforms in a new regulation, its trade minister said Wednesday, as Jakarta aims to rein in direct sales by major tech firms it says are harming millions of small businesses. Government officials in recent weeks called for social media and e-commerce to be decoupled, targeting platforms they say engage in monopolistic practices that threaten offline sellers, with some specifically blaming Chinese-owned short video app TikTok.
“This trade regulation has been in force (since yesterday),” Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan told a press conference in the capital Jakarta.
He said social commerce platforms would have a week to comply with the new rule.
The regulation means social media firms will not be able to conduct direct transactions but only promote products on their platforms.
Laws in the archipelago nation did not cover direct transactions through social media platforms such as TikTok, Facebook or Instagram before the new regulation. AFP
LONDON—Britain on Wednesday authorized oil and gas production in its largest undeveloped field to boost energy security, one week after diluting net zero targets, triggering more condemnation by green groups.
Norwegian oil and gas producer Equinor and Ithaca Energy, a subsidiary of Israeli group Delek, will together invest $3.8 billion in developing the field situated in the North Sea off the coast of Scotland.
The North Sea Transition Authority, a UK oil and gas regulator, said in a statement that it had “granted development and production consent for the Rosebank field, north-west of Shetland”.
Equinor has an 80-percent interest in the project and Ithaca the remainder.
“Rosebank stands as the largest undeveloped field in the UK,” said Gilad Myerson, executive chairman at Ithaca Energy.
“The Rosebank project will create thousands of jobs and contribute significantly to securing the UK’s energy needs for many years to come,” he added. AFP
CITICORE Renewable Energy Corp.
(CREC) said Wednesday it signed a partnership agreement to supply Clark Electric Distribution Corp. (CEDC)’s local retail electricity arm with 7.5 megawatts of solar power.
CREC said in a statement it would supply the capacity to Cogent Energy from its 16.3-megawatt Tarlac solar power plants.
The contract will run until December 2024, or upon the commercial operations of CREC’s upcoming 63-MW Bato solar power project in Palauig, Zambales. CREC said that once the Bato solar plant is operational, the partnership will transition into a 10-year power supply contract that will provide 30 MW of the local retail electricity supplier’s needs.
“Our partnership with CEDC, among others, is another step in Citicore’s continued commitment to support the government in their renewable energy transition target,” said CREC executive vice president Manolo Candelaria.
“We’re very excited and honored to have CEDC join our growing list of long-term partners, and we thank CEDC for the trusting Citicore to deliver their energy requirements,” he said.
The partnership is in line with the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS), mandating local retail electricity suppliers such as CEDC to source a portion of their energy needs from renewable energy resources.
This is also anchored on the DOE’s blueprint of a renewable energy share of 35 percent in the generation mix by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.
THE government will likely miss its 2023 growth target of 6 percent to 7 percent amid global headwinds, economists from First Metro Investment Corp. (FMIC) and University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) said in a joint report Wednesday.
The economists said in the September 2023 issue of Market Call that the gross domestic product in the third quarter might grow by 5 percent to 5.2 percent. They said while the third-quarter growth could be faster than 4.3 percent in the second quarter, this would not be
enough to attain the lower end of the full-year target range.
“We still see sufficient strength in the economy to get a 5.0 to 5.2 percent year-on-year Q3 GDP growth,” they said, adding that the acceleration of industry and manufacturing sectors, to-
gether with consumer spending should bring back the fourth-quarter growth above 6 percent.
“Thus, we still see full year GDP growth at a respectable 5.5 percent despite the global slowdown,” they said.
Economists said the elevated government spending in the third quarter should provide the stimulus, and this would be accompanied by a strong rebound in employment and consumer spending starting September.
The industry sector’s expansion would be broad-based, although manufacturing would take the lead, the report said.
The economists said the services sector should see domestic and foreign tourism drive trade, transportation and storage and accommodations and food services starting September.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that the second-quarter growth slowed to 4.3 percent from 7.5 percent in the same period last year, weighed down by global slowdown due to elevated inflation and higher interest rates.
This brought the average first-half expansion to 5.3 percent, lower than the target range of 6 percent to 7 percent.
Oxford Economics said earlier the economy felt the impact of monetary
By Othel V. CamposLOGISTICS provider Mober is beefing up its delivery fleet with at least 300 electric vehicles by 2024, chief executive Dennis Ng said Wednesday.
“We’re moving towards zero-emission operations. The initial cost will be tremendous, but the impact to us, our partners and to the consumers will be greater,” he said in a news briefing.
The firm targets to have at least 100 units of e-vehicles by end-2023. It now owns and operates 66 units of e-trucks which are dispatched daily for logistics needs of institutional clients like IKEA, SM Retail and Nestlé Philippines. Ng said while there was no plan yet
SMART Communications Inc. signed
an agreement with the Department of Transportation in support of the EDSA Greenways Project—an initiative under the Build Better More infrastructure program of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Under the memorandum of agreement, Smart will relocate its utilities and cables affected by the construction of elevated walkways on the main thoroughfare, including footbridges in Balintawak, Cubao, Guadalupe and Taft Ave.
These pedestrian structures seek to address the needs of the elderly, per-
THE IT-Business Process Management (IT-BPM) sector is expected to post $35.4 billion in revenues this year, up 8.8 percent from the 2022 level, an industry group said Wednesday.
Officials of the IT-Business Process Management Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) said employment in the sector is projected to rise 8.7 percent to 1.7 million full time-employees (FTEs) by end-2023.
IBPAP president Jack Madrid said the sector’s contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP) would likely reach 9 percent by 2028.
“In any IT global business location, it is the biggest share. India probably is 3 or 4 percent. We are 9 percent. Our industry is becoming more important to
sons with disabilities (PWDs), women and people travelling with children by connecting MRT and LRT stations to it.
“We welcome this opportunity to work hand-in-hand with government to help boost the country’s economy and improve the quality of life of our countrymen, while ensuring that we are able to continue serving our subscribers and keep them connected,” said PLDT Inc. and Smart president and chief executive Alfredo Panlilio said.
Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said the government’s goal was to have a smooth relocation of utilities and cables in areas where the project would be constructed.
the Philippine economy, and that’s why delivering an additional 1.1 million jobs is very, very important,” he said during the opening of the two-day 15th International IT-Business Process Management Summit (IIS) at Okada Manila in Pasay City.
He said the headcount growth in the Philippines already outperformed the global growth of 7.7 percent.
Among the factors propelling the growth of the Philippine IT-BPM industry in 2023 are the clear US preference for the Philippines as hub for highquality IT-BPM services and source of talent.
Foreign companies also find it attractive the Philippine government’s support for remote and hybrid work policies.
IBPAP said these policies not only helped companies adapt to the changing work landscape but also attracted foreign investments.
“With the help of our allies and collaborators, we were able to put into motion programs that align with our acceleration levers and support our 2028 growth targets,” Madrid said. Latest industry data showed the industry was on track to achieving 23 percent of the 1.1 million jobs it set to create and 20 percent of the $29.5 billion it promised to generate by 2028.
A majority of companies expressed a strong commitment to expansion in more locations outside Metro Manila such as Cebu, Davao City, Iloilo, Clark and Cagayan de Oro. Othel V. Campos
“I cannot overemphasize the value of the EDSA Greenways Project in providing sustainable mobility options,” said Bautista.
He said the DOTr appreciates the collaboration of the Department of Labor and Employment, Philippine National Police, PLDT and Smart and other telcos in the success of the transport project.
“With our customers as our North Star, we are always looking for ways to serve them better by enhancing our network, enabling the seamless delivery of our products, services and innovative solutions,” said Smart first vice president and network head Eric Santiago.
tightening done by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to rein in inflation.
It said the second-quarter data added weight to expectation that the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas was unlikely to hike the policy rate in its next meetings, and raise the risk the central bank might start cutting rates sooner than its first-quarter 2024 expectation.
National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the government was sticking to the GDP growth target range for 2023 despite the sluggish growth in the second quarter, as improvements could be seen in the remaining months of the year.
to retire their diesel-engine fleet, the move to electrification would pave the way for the company to go all EVs in the future.
Mober unveiled on Wednesday its flagship EV charging hub in Pasay City, showcasing its unwavering dedication to an eco-friendly future as one of the sustainable green logistics in Southeast Asia. Mober’s network of EV charging units are equipped with the latest OCPP 7kw (kilowatt) chargers, compatible with both type 2 and GB/T standards. These powering Mober’s exclusive EV fleet earmarked for IKEA.
The company invested P2 million for the construction of the charging station, said Ng.
DIDAL FAILS TO DEFEND
TITLE. Margielyn
Didal became the rst Filipino defending Asian Games’ champion to fall after failing to nish the nals of Street Style Skateboarding competition due to injury.
HANGZHOU—A visibly struggling
Margielyn Didal saw her title slip away as she placed last in the women’s street skateboarding finals of the 19th Asian Games at the QT Roller Sports center here on Tuesday. Still bothered by her surgically-repaired left ankle, Didal was a shadow of her old self as she completed her 1st run with a low 23.39 points. In her second run, Didal slid off her board and restarted an attempt that netted an even dismal 12.83 score.
HANGZHOU—The trajectory arc gets steeper for Gilas Pilipinas as it takes on Southeast Asian Games rival Thailand on Thursday, September 28, in the men’s basketball competition of the 19th Asian Games here.
Game time is at 11 a.m. (Manila time) at the Zhejiang University Zijingang Gymnasium, with the Philippines out for a momentum-building followup to its 89-61 opening victory over Bahrain and former PBA import Wayne Chism at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center Gymnasium last Tuesday.
Thailand, led by ex-UCLA Bruin Tyler Lamb, will be looking to rebound, meanwhile, from a 97-63 thrashing at the hands of Jordan and TNT Giga import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson last Tuesday.
Hollis-Jefferson, who will be rejoining TNT for the 2023-2024 PBA season once the Asian Games is over, played 30:06 minutes against the Thais, scoring 20 points on 6 of 15 from the floor with 7 rebounds, 2 assists and 3 steals.
Gilas head coach Tim Cone was talking about getting his hands on the video of the Jordan-Thailand game even before he had walked off the court after their match against Bahrain.
“We need to break down their game,”
said Cone. “We saw them [Thais] in the Southeast Asian Games, but we’re not matched up against them. They were knocked out by Cambodia. So we hope we’ll have a better feel of Thailand than we did. We gotta need to ‘cause Thailand’s a much stronger team than Bahrain.”
The Philippines won the men’s basketball gold medal in the SEA Games, beating host Cambodia in the final.
As on the eve of the game against Bahrain, Cone presided over a film viewing of the Thailand-Jordan game with spliced clips of the Thais’ top players other than Lamb, who was 3 of 14 from the field, including 2 of 10 beyond the arc. His 2 rebounds were among the lowest for the team.
In his place, 5-foot-8 guard Frederick Lish had 13 points on 6 of 19 from the field but was abysmal from outside, going 1 of 9 in treys.
The Gilas defense is expected to zero in on Thailand’s other licensed perimeter
shooters like Nattakarn Muangboon, who was 3 of 7 in triples, and Jakongmee Morgan (7 pts), Naratip Boonserm (6) and Nakom Jaisanuk, all of whom took three treys each or more against Jordan.
Steady improvement as the Games move on is Gilas’ priority mindset, according to Cone.
“We gotta go up the level, we gotta continue to rise in our game ‘cause we’re
gonna play a tougher opponent each time out,” he said.
“I mean, from Bahrain to Thailand to Jordan, and perhaps to the next round, whether it be Korea or Japan or whoever, and hopefully to the semis, maybe to the finals, we gotta continue to lift the level of our game, that’s important.”
A one and a half-hour practice was scheduled at 1 p.m.
HANGZHOU—Rianne Malixi will bank on an intensive buildup for the Asian Games as she and Lois Kaye Go launch their drive in women’s golf in the 19th Asian Games at the West Lake International Golf Country Club in Xihu District Thursday.
The country’s bid to defend the individual and team gold medal suffered a snag after the Hangzhou Asian Games Organizing Committee denied an appeal to include Chanelle Avaricio in place of Princess Superal.
The Philippines found itself with no other recourse but to vie in the threeto-play, two-to-count format with only Malixi and Go.
But Malixi and Go remain upbeat of their chances in the individual competitions bannered by Chinese Yin Ruoning, who held the world’s top ranking
for two consecutive weeks (September 11 to 24) before yielding it to American Lilia Vu this week.
Still, Yin, who edged Yuka Saso by one to score a major breakthrough in the Women’s Professional Golfers Association Championship last June, remains the marked player for the gold, along with India’s Avani Prashanth, Saki Baba and Mizuki Hashimoto of Japan and Thais Eila Galitsky, Patcharajutar Kongkraphan and Arpichaya Yubol.
But focus will be on a crack Korean squad seeking to regain the team gold it last won in 2010 in Guangzhou, its fourth in the last eight Asian Games.
The Koreans also swept the individual gold medals for three straight Asiad staging from 2006 in Doha, to Guangzhou to 2014 in Incheon.
Saso broke that streak with a grip-
ping come-from-behind victory in Jakarta in 2018 then, with Bianca Pagdanganan, who took the individual bronze, and Go steered the PH to the team gold.
But Saso has since opted for the Japanese citizenship month’s after winning the US Women’s Open in 2021 while Pagdanganan is focusing on regaining her Ladies PGA card.
Superal would have been a key addition to the team but the first Philippine-born player to win a US Golf Association-sanctioned event, the US Girls’ Junior in 2014, begged off due to conflict in schedule with her Japan Step Up Tour campaign.
But with the International Container Terminal Services Inc.-backed Malixi, now back on No. 75 in the women’s amateur world ranking, in top form
The 24-year-old Didal eventually failed to complete any of her first three tricks and decided to call it quits with still two tricks left to play, finishing eighth and last with a 23.39 total. “Passion na lang,” said Didal on why she still competed. Didal sustained her injury during the Red Bull Skate Levels Tournament.
China’s Chenxi Cui and Wenhui Zeng captured the gold and silver, respectively.
Didal’s manager Anthony Claravall insisted that an Olympic stint is still their goal. The Cebuana skateboarded is currently ranked no. 44 in the world, with only the Top 40 earning seats in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
Meanwhile, Skateboarding and Roller Sports Association of the Philippines Inc. bet Renzo Mark Feliciano also placed last in the men’s division with 48.59 markers, with China’s Jie Zhang (231.14), Indonesian Sanggoe Tanjung (200.63) and Chinese Jianjin Su (195.73) finishing in the Top 3.
HANGZHOU, China—The national judo squad will go home without a single medal after it bowed to Thailand in the Round of 16 of the mixed team event of the 19th Asian Games at the Xiaohan Linpu Gymnasium here.
All four Pinoy judokas, led by Olympian Kiyomi Watanabe, were wiped out by their Thai rivals to wrap up their campaign without a single medal in this tourney supported by the Philippine Sports Commission and Philippine Olympic Committee.
Watanabe bowed to former Southeast Asian Games gold medalist Thonthan Satjadet in the women’s +70-kilogram class while Ryoko Salinas surrendered to Supattra Nanonong in the women’s -70-kg event via ippon in the first 31 minutes of action.
Also surrendering to Thai superiority were John Viron Ferrer in the men’s -90-kg event and Carl Dave Aneseta in the men’s +90kg event, who lost to Wei Fuyang and Kittipong Hantratin, respectively.
With that, the Filipinos ended ninth while the Thais advanced to the quarterfinals.
By Randy Caluag
GENTING HIGHLANDS, Pahang—Ryan
Tugawin of 7Eleven-Cliqq-Air21-Roadbike
Philippines made some noise on Wednesday as he grabbed Sprint honors in Stage 5 of the PETRONAS Tour de Langkawi here.
The national criterium champion, together with teammate Nichol Pareja, made an early breakaway in the first five kilometers of this 126.4-km stage that ended at the summit of the Genting Highlands in Pahang.
They were joined in the six-man lead pack that also included riders from Nasuntara Indonesia,
Terengganu Malaysia and Italy’s Green Project.
The peloton didn’t make a chase, paving the way for Tugawin’s sprint honor at the 13.1-km mark.
“’Yan na realistic goals ng mga riders natin, to go for stage points and honors every stage,” said 7-Eleven-Cliqq-Air2-Roadbike Philippines team director Ric Rodriguez. “Sabi ko sa mga bata, basta may chance umatake, go for it.”
Tugawin’s efforts netted him 22 points in the Sprint battle and cash bonus worth 500 RM (P6,500).
Meanwhile, Simon Carr of EF Education turned the Genting leg into his own playground and ruled the stage to grab the individual overall leadership.
The British climber topped the killer stage
with a time of 3 hours and 16.06 seconds. He now leads by 46 seconds ahead of his teammate Alexander Cepeda.
Erstwhile leader George Jackson of Bolton Enterprise placed 116th and fell to no. 59 in the overall ranking.
After the long, hard climb up the 1,800m summit of this cold, mountain resort, the race returns to the plains on stage 6, starting at Karak and ending in the historic city of Melaka.
The 174.5-km stage offers another haven for sprinters with only two short climbs in Gapoi and Luka Inas in the 20km and 104.6 km marks, respectively.
MULTI-TITLED Kimi Brodeth and Mcleen Gomera set out for another title run in the PPS-PEPP junior tennis circuit as they banner the huge field in the Lapu-Lapu City Juniors Fiesta National Tennis Championships beginning Thursday, Sept. 28 in Cebu City.
Brodeth and Gomera gain the top seeding in both the 16- and 18-andunder age categories in girls’ and boys’ divisions, respectively, although they will be as much tested as the rest of the close to 200 bidders in the Group 1 tournament marking the resumption of the country’s longest talent-search after the three-leg Davao region swing recently.
Out to foil Brodeth are Kate Imalay, Sandra Bautista and Chloe Ortega in 16-and-U class with Bautista and Ortega also going all-out to derail the fancied bet from Ormoc City in the premier category along with Nicole Batucan, Faith Banico, Joanna Vasquez and Lea Balacuit.
Gomera is also in for a tough outing against Gio Manito, Nicholas Ocat, Gerald Gemida, John Lataza, Kevin Tabura, Juvels Velos and Jan Docor in 18-and-U with Manito, Tabura and Velos, along with Kenzo Brodeth, Andre Namocatcat and siblings Christian and Crismarc Laguna, likewise vying in the 16-andU class of the event held under the PPS-PEPP program put up by Palawan Pawnshop president/CEO Bobby Castro.
Maristella Torrecampo, a rising star from Los Baños, also primes up for a shot at two titles as she headlines the field in both the girls’ 12- and 14-and-under divisions with Ma. Caroliean Fiel, Julienne Celeste and Chrystell Laguna seeking to foil her bid in 12-and-U class.
Imalay, Mae Diamante and Chrystell Laguna, meanwhile, lead the challengers in the 14-and-U play of the week-long event hosted by Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan, which serves as the first two legs in the Queen City of the South, the other to be staged by Rep. Cindi Chan on Oct. 5-9, also set at the Lapu-Lapu City Tennis Club.
stint and tumbled off the leaderboard.
HANGZHOU—The Sibol team of Robert de Guzman picked up a win and a loss in the Dream Three Kingdoms 2 event as the Philippines put up a semblance of a fight in the 19th Asian Games esports competitions at the Hangzhou Esports center on Wednesday.
De Guzman and his teammates first turned back the Sardor Azimovled Uzbekistan, 1-0, before bowing, 0-1, to the Meirlan Yanmakhanovpowered Kazakhstan, to place second in Group B.
The top two squads in each group will reach the quarterfinals, which now has Kazakhstan, China and Thailand as the first qualifiers.
As the second-placed team in the group, the Philippines, which is backed by the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Olympic Committee, arranged a quarterfinal showdown with Hong Kong on Thursday at 2 p.m. in the esports competition making its debut in the games.
CLARK Freeport
Zone—Guido van der Valk used an early backside slip to stoke up another searing frontside run, leading to a second straight 66 and a continued hold of the lead halfway through the ICTSI Mimosa Plus Championship here in Pampanga yesterday.
The lead actually changed hands a number of times in the early going and late in the round in another scorching day but Jhonnel Ababa came up short by one to match van der Valk’s 132 total despite a new course mark of 65 at Mimosa Plus’ Acacia for a 133.
Michael Bibat also seized the lead at 10-under 134 on a solid six-under card but for a fleeting moment as the Dutchman came charging home with back-to-back birdies to cap a splendid closing frontside 30 marked by a three-birdie binge from No. 3.
But the title chase remains as tight and wide-open as ever heading to the last 36
holes of the season-ending P2 million championship as Nilo Salahog kept his Philippine Golf Tour breakthrough bid going with a 135 after a 68 and Dino Villanueva likewise staying in the hunt for a maiden win despite squandering a more than perfect start and finishing with a second 68 for a 136.
Valley leg runaway winner Reymon Jaraula slowed down with a 70 after a 67 but remained in the thick of things at 137 in a tie with young Sean Ramos, who also shot a 66, while Paul Echavez and Elmer Salvador matched 68s and Kristoffer Arevalo and Keanu Jahns produced a pair of 69s for joint eighth at 138.
Japanese Toru Nakajima and Korean Min Seong Kim, who were in the early mix with 67 and 68, respectively, found the going a bit tougher and finished with 72 and 71, respectively, as they dropped to joint 12th at 139 with Marvin Dumandan, Rupert Zaragosa and Elee Bisera, who all carded 70s, and Luis Bagtas, who turned in a 70.
Taiwanese Ting Yu Chen floundered with a 79 after a 67 and fell to joint 33rd at 146 but made the 40-and-ties cut at 147.
For a while, Bagtas threatened to stir up play with a scorching frontside 32 but the son of former pro Eddie wavered with three bogeys in a birdie-less backside
CLARK Freeport Zone—Harmie Constantino put up a 66 round so startling it turned what had appeared to be a one player’s show to an anybody’s race as she tied Mikha Fortuna in the lead after 36 holes of the ICTSI Mimosa Plus Championship here on Wednesday.
A big birdie-binge linking both nines of Mimosa Plus’ Acacia course led to a pair of 33s and lifted Constantino from six shots down at joint fourth to a share of the lead at seven-under 137 as Fortuna found the going a lot tougher after a flawless opening 65 and finished with a 72.
But Daniella Uy posted a second straight 69 on a strong finish to stalk the joint leaders at 138 and Korean Min Yeong Kim came through with a solid 68 to seize solo fourth at 139.
Sarah Ababa rallied with 68 to move to fifth at 140 while South Pacific Classic leg winner Florence Bisera likewise recalled her fierce form and matched Constantino’s six-under card she fashioned out in bogey-free fashion to tie Korean Seoyun Kim, who carded a 71, at 141.
Korean amateur Jiwon Lee, priming up for next Tuesday’s ICTSI Junior PGT national finals, put in a second straight 71 for 142 while Apple Fudolin and Chihiro Ikeda pooled 145 and 146 after 69 and 73, respectively.
But the chase for the top P120,000 purse in the 54-hole championship put up by ICTSI could be reduced to the top four players with Constantino, Fortuna and Uy gearing up for what promises to be a day-long battle of power, iron play, putting and nerves.
“The pin placements were difficult in the first two days, so it will be much harder tomorrow (today),” said Constantino, seeking to emerge the only three-leg winner in this year’s Ladies Philippine Golf Tour after scoring back-to-back victories at Luisita and Villamor Philippine Masters.
“But I’m playing pretty good. Hopefully, this continues tomorrow (today),” she said. “I’ll still do the same thing – work on my game and try to get better each day.”
Too far behind a hot-starting Fortuna, Constantino broke a birdie-bogey game from No. 3 as she mounted her charge with back-to-back birdies from No. 5 then netted another stroke on the par-5 No. 9.
Riding on the momentum, she birdied the 10th and picked up strokes in the next three to complete a five-hole binge for a running seven-under card. But she missed grabbing the solo lead with a mishap on No. 17, enabling Fortuna, playing in a flight behind, to salvage a share of it with a second straight birdie on No. 16.…
“I tried to make as much putts as I can. It just so happened that the putts that I was making kept dropping,” said Constantino.
Despite her 72, Fortuna, who blew the field with a first round 65 and took a four-shot lead over Uy, said she played a pretty steady round.
“The pins were tough and I tried to be patient. But it is what it is, one more day tomorrow (today),” said Fortuna, who continued to tone down expectations of a maiden win in the country’s premier ladies circuit backed by Kampfortis Golf, the official apparel of the organizing Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.
“No expectations. I want to win but I really don’t think about it,” said Fortuna. “I don’t want to put pressure on myself. I just want to stay patient and not to get frustrated. I’ll just play one hole at a time and get birdies as much as I can.”
But any player can explode at any given day at Acacia, particularly the big hitters, setting the stage for a wild finish to the 72-hole championship, the 10th leg of this year’s circuit organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, inc. and backed by PGTI official apparel Kampfortis Golf.
But no player comes into the pivotal round with so much confidence than van der Valk.
“I started slow and three-putted No. 10. I think it was because of the rain Tuesday night. The greens were a bit slower at the beginning of the day and they dried up a little bit,” said van der Valk, who birdied the 16th to save a 36, enabling a host of others to take their shots at the top spot.
But he turned things around as he made the turn.
“I really hit good shots (at the back) but I just didn’t hole anything. It was quite frustrating but I knew that if I keep it hitting it good, the birdies will come,” he added.
They did.
He birdied the first hole, nearly aced the par-3 No. 3, came through with a birdie-blast on No. 4 and gained another stroke on the par-5 next before closing out with back-to-back birdies.
In Group A, Laos took the lead after getting past Hong Kong and Tajikistan in the morning matches.
Group C saw Vietnam stopping Kyrgyzstan, 1-0, but the latter bounced back with a triumph over Nepal, 1-0. Vietnam stayed unbeaten after whipping Nepal, 1-0, for their second straight victory. Meanwhile, Sibol tries its luck in DOTA 2 when it meets India on Friday. Peter Atencio
“It’s a nice little run and I managed a six-under (at the front) and I got myself back into the tournament,” he added. Birdies also came aplenty for Ababa and Bibat and for a number of contenders but they all failed to topple the reigning backto-back The Country Club Invitational winner at the end of the another lowscoring day. Ababa, at joint fifth after 18 holes, hit a pitch-in eagle on No. 18 then strung up three straight birdies at the turn before closing out with three birdies against a bogey in the last five holes for a 31-34. Bibat shot two birdies at the back then dominated the front with four more, matching van der Valk’s closing birdies to get another crack at the crown after ruling the PGT Eagle Ridge leg last year.
FINIS Philippines is going all out on its mission to provide both the athletes and coaches the right mix of experience and education in an international environment program.
As for Vince Garcia, FINIS Philippines Managing Director, the company’s portfolio in terms of sponsoring and organizing swimming events and coaches training is getting bigger and bolder.
“We’re in the right direction as far as the company’s commitment to the development of swimming, as we provide an internationallevel environment of competition, while helping our local coaches receive a high-level education which they can use to strengthen their coaching career,” said Garcia, an active triathlete and coach/manager of Para triathletes.
After the successful Luzon and Visayas leg held in New Clark City in Tarlac and Iloilo City, respectively, Garcia announced that finally, after tight scheduling, the Mindanao leg the final meet in the three-series FINIS National Long Course Swimming Championship, is set to unfold this coming weekend (Sept. 30 to Oct. 1) in Digos City, Davao del Sur.
“It’s all systems go. After discussing the program of activities with other local organizers, nakakuha na tayo ng schedule for the Mindanao leg. See you all for the National Finals in Tarlac,” said Garcia. The National Finals is set on Oct. 21 and 22 at the New Clark City in Capas.
Interested schools, clubs, and groups can send their entry forms and info kits at entry events@finis.ph, leigh_sanchez07@yahoo.com, renolddutchilla_1877@yahoo.com.ph.
You can also download the info kits at https://drive.google. com/.../1UfHkUZfxTqdP2_KXu-
6Jvo_Vz, while the Info kits for the National Finals will be released soon. For inquiries, call or message 09177986586.
Garcia also said that FINIS also kicked off its ASCA (American Swim Coaches Assn) Swim coaching certifications for Levels 1 and 2 last September 16 and 17 in Quezon City.
Another coaching certification for Levels 1 and 2 is set on Oct. 14 and 15 (Bacolod City), Oct. 28 and 29 in Davao City and Nov. 4 and 5 in Quezon City, while Levels 3, 4 and 5 certification to be conducted by ASCA Chief Executive coach Chad Onken is scheduled on Nov. 20 and 21, and Nov. 22 and Nov. 25, at the Acropolis Greens Sports Complex Clubhouse.
“What does an ASCA certification mean? It means that you care about your continuing coaching education and your professional preparation. It marks you as a coach who is in the mainstream of the swim coaching profession, and willing to be examined and certified by an independent agency (ASCA),” said Garcia.
of his 35th anniversary in the business, singer and songwriter Ogie Alcasid is gearing up for a one-of-a-kind concert experience.
Ogie celebrates his 35th year in the music industry with ‘Ogieoke: The Concert’
celebrate it because I had to leave for Kilabotitos So, in a way, this concert serves as my belated birthday party.”
Dubbed Ogieoke: The Concert, this unique musical spectacle is happening tomorrow at 8:00 p.m. at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.
8:00
“My idea was really to make it fun. I wanted it to be lively. In fact, for the opening, I wrote a theme song called ‘Ogieoke.’ I incorporated spiels in the song so that when you watch the concert, you will understand why we did it. It’s really a night where we celebrate our culture because karaoke is really our thing,” Ogie told Manila Standard Entertainment in an interview. The concert will be executed in the style of a real videoke session, complete with “scoring” after finishing a song. What’s more, the audience will have the chance to join Ogie on stage and flaunt their singing skills.
“As for the whole show, there will be lyrics displayed throughout, making it feel like you’re attending a sing-along,” Ogie added.
The seasoned singer explained the reason behind this unique concert, stating, “Newport Resorts World is celebrating its 14th anniversary, and they approached me to put on a show. Coincidentally, my birthday was on August 27, and I didn’t get to
Sharing the stage with Ogie are the talented couple Gian Magdangal and Lara Maigue, along with director Paolo Bustamante, Ogie’s high school classmate.
“I have some surprise guests lined up. I won’t reveal their names. Let’s keep it a surprise,” he said alluding to questions about whether his wife Regine Velasquez would join him onstage.
Ogie aims to pay homage to the Filipino love for karaoke, which is the country’s second favorite pastime, right after gossip. “It’s not a groundbreaking concept, to be honest, but in a concert setting, it’s something fresh,” he said.
Ogie also revealed that a significant portion of the concert’s repertoire would consist of ‘80s songs, the tunes he grew up with, rather than his original compositions that made him famous.
One song that’s guaranteed to be on the list is the classic “My Way” by Frank Sinatra. This song holds a special place in Ogie’s heart as it reminds him of his late father, Herminio Sr. He even shared a touching video of them singing it on his social media accounts.
“’My Way’ is my father’s favorite, and it’s becoming my anthem as well. No one else in the Philippines sings it. No other singer claims it,” Ogie shared.
Tickets are now available at all TicketWorld and SM
Tickets outlets: P7,800 (PLATINUM), P6,500 (SVIP), P5,500 (VIP), P4,000 (GOLD), P2,500 (SILVER), and P1,000 (BRONZE). For inquiries, contact JhayR dela Cruz at 0917 818 9847, Raf Sangco at 0917 807 9387, and Jimmy Iglesias at 0917 872 8734.
SUPERSTAR Series, renowned for its success in South Korea, Japan, and the United States, is extending its reach to the Philippines.
The global sensation in music gaming is launching its local counterpart, SuperStar Philippines, on October 11. This venture brings together some of the Philippines’ most beloved artists from media powerhouse ABS-CBN, including Maymay Entrata, Janella Salvador, Belle Mariano, Jayda, Angela Ken, Daniel Padilla, BGYO, BINI, Nameless Kids, and more, to join upon the app’s eagerly awaited debut.
With over 75 million downloads worldwide, Dalcomsoft’s SuperStar Series has been a global phenomenon since its inception in 2014, notably with major K-Pop entertainment companies such as SM, JYP, YG, and many more.
The app includes 450 artists including mainstream artists from all around the world such as Billie Eilish, BLACKPINK, Lady Gaga, Olivia Rodrigo, Stray Kids, The Kid LAROI, Selena Gomez, TWICE, and Lil Nas X, to name a few.
SuperStar Series offers to engage rhythm-based action games that feature original sound sources from the artists themselves, creating an authentic and immersive experience for players. Moreover, SuperStar Series introduces a captivating card collection feature, allowing users to collect, level up, and upgrade photo cards of their beloved artists.
Allen Chung, Head of US Operations at Dalcomsoft, and the driving force behind global expansion, expressed his enthusiasm: “As we continue to expand globally with local artists, we are very excited about this opportunity to launch our SuperStar app with ABS-CBN for the first time in Southeast Asia. I couldn’t be happier to connect Filipino artists and songs to their fans. We look forward to
a long-term working relationship with the ABSCBN family.”
Roxy Liquigan, Head of ABS-CBN Music, added, “We’re very happy and excited about the partnership between ABS-CBN Music and Dalcomsoft since it’s a first for OPM and is a new platform for us to bring the music of our artists to our listeners and create new experiences with them. We hope everyone enjoys the music and games we’re about to bring with Dalcomsoft.”
ABS-CBN is the Philippines’ leading content provider based in Quezon City, Metro Manila, which also leads several record labels under the ABS-CBN Music umbrella to champion Filipino artistry locally and in the global arena. The SuperStar apps are free to download on the App Store and Google Play, enabling fans to immerse themselves in the world of their favorite charttopping hits. Pre-registration started on September 27 with various special rewards available upon sign-up (Pre-register here: https:// superstarph.dalcomsoft.
BROADCAST giant GMA Network, Inc.
was honored as Media Network of the Year at the prestigious PANAta Awards of the Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA) last September 22.
As the top Philippine media conglomerate, GMA is also known for its strategic marketing and advocacy campaigns. From edutainment series to seamless integration of brands in programs, the Kapuso Network has been the advertisers’ preferred one-stop shop for customized multiplatform projects.
“We are humbled to receive the inaugural Media Network of the Year award from the Philippine Association of National Advertisers. Part of our vision is to be the advertisers’ preferred partner, so this recognition means so much to us. This is a testament to our innovative and collaborative programs, forged alongside incredible brands and industry partners. Thank you PANA for honoring GMA’s work with this prestigious award. We look forward to building more highimpact partnerships that enrich the lives of Filipinos,” said GMA Network’s Chief Marketing Officer Lizelle Maralag
Organized by PANA—the longest-running association of local and multinational advertisers and brand builders in the Philippines—the PANAta
Fil-Am Ted Reyes on writing
'Bye Bye Na,' releasing solo songs, and his former band getting banned
THERE’S
certainly more to the story of Ted Reyes, a Filipino-born musician living in the United States, apart from being the songwriter behind the now-classic Himig Handog finalist “Bye Bye Na.” A deep look into his track record proves he has led an excitingly creative run. The Filipino-American musician boasts a multifaceted career. Firstly, his songwriting prowess earned him a spot in the final 12 of the 2010 FILSCAP Songwriting Competition with “Tayo Na Sa Ulan.” Secondly, he launched his musical journey as the frontman of The Freesouls, a 60s-inspired band signed by a major Manila label in the late ‘90s. Thirdly, Ted has made a significant mark in the Asian-American music scene, leading bands like Bleud and The Happy Analogues before embarking on a solo career.
Notably, he released “Awit Ng Himagsikan” on September 21, a date to remember whether you are a Marcos critic or apologist. Despite being miles apart, Ted and I reconnected in California after departing from our respective hometowns – New York and Metro Manila.
“Bye Bye Na” exceeds eight million Spotify streams, a top track for interpreter Rico Blanco Ted reflects, “The song flowed effortlessly, like a gift from the universe. All I needed was to stop whatever I was doing and rush towards our trusty old family Weinstein upright piano in our house in Kamuning, armed with a pen, a notebook, and a tape recorder. And there it was, a gift of a song.”
In 2018, Ted released “Made In Kamuning,” featuring his take on “Bye Bye Na.” Currently, he’s consistently dropping singles, including “Sobrang Init Naman,” inspired by the scorching heat during his time in Singapore, Bangkok, and Manila, with a bassline that adds a cool twist to a hot topic.
As for “Awit Ng Himagsikan,” I’d keep my instant Facebook comment about it intact: good guitar riff, melody recall, and spirited lyrics.
Ted shared, “The experience of releasing materials as a solo artist is fascinating and rewarding, but you lose the cover offered by being with a group. If a Happy Analogues song sucks, there are four people to blame. You don’t have that as a solo artist. You are out there by yourself dodging and taking bullets.”
Back in the day, I had high hopes The Freesouls would become a household name, owing to their style and musicality. Having said that, I believe that their shelved album “Flowers For The Soul,” belatedly released on digital stores some 15 years ago, is among the best by a Filipino band. Let Ted take us back to what happened.
Awards has recognized campaigns that demonstrate brand effectiveness, creativity, strategic thinking, and impact. The Media Network of the Year Award is given to the media organization which has showcased inspiring and innovative execution of media ideas that resulted in an enhanced and amplified relationship among the agency, the brand builder, and audiences. A distinguished jury of brand luminaries, media experts, academe, and esteemed advertising agencies
determined the winner based on a set of criteria. Among the campaigns GMA was cited for was the Kapuso at Kasambuhay ng Kalikasan advocacy campaign with Nestlé Philippines.
“We share this recognition with the whole Kapuso Network and with Nestlé Philippines—our partner for Kapuso at Kasambuhay ng Kalikasan—an advocacy to protect our environment. Our advertisers and brand partners are very important to us, and we thank you for the trust. We will continue to work with you in delivering superior entertainment and responsible news,” said GMA Network’s Vice President and Head for Corporate Affairs and Communications Angela Javier Cruz GMA Network’s long-standing commitment to promoting environmental awareness and ecological regeneration is reflected in its programs and in the way the Network operates. It has institutionalized green advocacy through the Kapuso ng Kalikasan, the Network’s flagship program that collaborates with institutions to save the planet’s critical resources. GMA is also recognized as one of the notable organizations that promote sustainability in the country, being the first media and broadcasting company in the Philippines to sign with the United Nations (UN) Global Compact.
He pointed out, “The Freesouls were a huge part of my journey. The band I started when we were teenagers got signed by a major label, and we released an album. We toured/played alongside the great bands of the day – Eraserheads, Parokya ni Edgar, Rivermaya, P.O.T., Itchyworms, and many more. Unfortunately, after scoring a minor hit with our debut single ‘Shindig,’ our sophomore single ‘Yatehan’ was banned by radio stations, apparently for being lewd and vulgar, which didn’t make sense then and even now. I’ve heard songs that are overtly sexual but got significant airplay.”
No hard feelings. Ted is a peacenik baby and he’s not one to harbor hate. He assured me, “I moved on and embraced that part of my musical journey. It wasn’t for us, and that is totally cool.”
At the turn of the new millennium, Ted and his ladylove Sheryl flew to New York. The past two years they embarked on what he describes as a nomadic adventure, in which they lived in twenty countries – in most of Europe, Mexico, Japan, and Southeast Asia. They came back to the US early this year and decided to try it out in Los Angeles after he got an offer to work at a music company in Hollywood.
Last September 16, he performed on stage at Gerry’s Grill in the nearby city of Artesia, backed by Monster Turned Machine which just released a single featuring Glenn Jacinto of Teeth
By Nickie Wang
IN THE world of skincare and sun protection, innovation is continually reshaping our routines. One such innovation that has taken center stage is tinted sunscreen with True Tone Technology. This product represents a remarkable leap forward in both sun protection and cosmetic enhancement.
True Tone Technology is a game-changer, addressing a common challenge faced by individuals with diverse skin tones. Traditional sunscreens often leave an undesirable white cast, making them unsuitable for many. This technology adjusts the tint of the sunscreen to seamlessly match your skin tone, eliminating the ashy or unnatural appearance. It’s a breakthrough that promotes inclusivity and ensures that everyone can enjoy effective sun protection without compromise.
Beyond its cosmetic advantages, tinted sunscreen with True Tone Technology is a potent shield against harmful UV rays. It prevents sunburn, and premature aging, and reduces the risk of skin cancer. Additionally, it serves as a versatile product, offering light coverage for a more natural look and simplifying your skincare routine.
As we prioritize both sun protection and skin aesthetics, this product embodies the perfect synergy of science and beauty. It’s a testament to the everevolving world of skincare, where innovation continues to empower us to look and feel our best while safeguarding our skin.
Meanwhile, serums have emerged as essential tools in the quest for
radiant skin. A serum enriched with Niacinamide, Vitamin C, and Hyaluronic Acid is a potent elixir. Niacinamide, a versatile ingredient, enhances the skin’s barrier function, reduces redness, and minimizes the appearance of pores and wrinkles.
Vitamin C, a robust antioxidant, brightens the skin and stimulates collagen production, promoting elasticity. Hyaluronic Acid, a hydration powerhouse, ensures the skin remains plump and moisturized. This serum offers a spectrum of benefits, including intense hydration, skin tone improvement, and antiaging effects. It combines the powers of its critical ingredients for a comprehensive skincare solution.
Kelcey Chua, Senior Brand Manager of Kojie.san, emphasized the efficacy of Kojie.san Skin Lightening Super Serum, which contains the aforementioned three key ingredients, during a launch event, stating, “Formulated with four powerful ingredients, the new Kojie.san Super Serum is designed to deliver visible results as quickly as one day. We believe that beauty emanates from confidence and self-
assurance. With our serum, Kojie. san empowers you to radiate beauty and express yourself.”
In addition to the Super Serum, Kojie.san introduces the Kojie. san Tinted Sunscreen, a perfect complement to the Super Serum in your skincare routine. This marks a significant milestone for Kojie.san as they recognize their customers’ demand for effective sun protection that seamlessly integrates into their daily beauty regimens.
The Kojie.san Tinted Sunscreen offers protection against harmful UV rays with SPF 50+ PA+++ for UVA/ UVB rays and features True Tone Technology that adapts to any skin tone. Additionally, it incorporates RadiCare technology, providing a protective barrier against sunlight and blue light emitted by gadgets, WiFi, and other external radiation sources that can harm the skin.
Also, Kojie.san Tinted Sunscreen boasts a skin-enhancing formula that blurs imperfections such as enlarged pores, redness, bumps, fine lines, and wrinkles. It is enriched with Vitamin E and Sunflower Oil to nourish the skin.
plans. The company’s success is driven by core brands like Megan, Hairfix, DermAid, Pretty Secret, CathyDoll, NutriXpert, BodyXpert, Chummy Baby, and more, catering to diverse needs.
To express gratitude to loyal customers, they hosted the Biggest 15th Anniversary Sale at Watsons with enticing promos. Influencers joined in the celebration with a toast.
Inspirational speaker Lance Lee highlighted LifeStrong’s “Kaya Yan!” mindset, embracing challenges. Employees shared their growth stories and how LifeStrong’s core values (S.H.A.R.P.E.N.S) enriched their lives during the 15 Years of Innovation and Excellence.
CELEBRATING a remarkable 15year journey, LifeStrong Marketing has built a close-knit family of employees while achieving unparalleled success in a competitive industry. Their anniversary signifies not only a trailblazing track record that has earned the trust of customers and clients but also a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility.
This year’s anniversary held special significance as LifeStrong Marketing, alongside its dedicated employees, positively impacted the lives of Tinajeros Elementary School children in collaboration with Save The Children Philippines.
On August 8, they distributed thoughtfully packed go-bags containing educational and wellness supplies, including notebooks, shirts, pens, hand towels, flashlights, wound kits, and hygiene sets. This altruistic initiative reflects the employees’ dedication to giving back to these young students.
It was the year 2008 when Lifestrong Marketing Inc. was started by Lance Lee and Margaret Lee, now CEO and COO, respectively, who always believed in achieving greater heights. Through their humble beginnings, they found ways to celebrate every milestone, honoring the people behind the company’s success.
LifeStrong Marketing celebrated its 15th Anniversary at Luxent Hotel on September 16, reflecting on its remarkable journey and future
The joyous occasion turned even better as the venue was graced with outstanding celebrities who have imprinted their presence on LifeStrong’s brands.
And what better way to savor such a momentous, star-studded occasion than dancing the night away with some of the industry’s brightest such as actress and TV host Kim Chiu for Hairfix, Miss World 2013 Megan Young for Megan Beauty, ten star Jillian Ward for Pretty Secret, and other stellar names such as TikTok personalities Dior Veneracion Paula Pelaez Riri Ching and Joshua Ronett for Cathy Doll, and Save The Children Philippines for Dermaid. Also present were beauty queens Ingrid Santamaria, Allison Black, Nikki De Moura, and Francine Reyes. The endorsers of the brands have performed and showcased their talents, beauty, and wits being the faces of the company’s brands.
During the event, not only did they celebrate and reminisce what LifeStrong has traversed in their 15-year journey but they also had the greatest time enjoying the very special event as the employees played the traditional Dice Game and awarded the Mr. and Ms. Glamorous Star of the Night.
MANY of us who barely have time to finish our morning coffee find it challenging to religiously follow a healthy and balanced meal. Of course, there are options like meal plan subscriptions or having someone prepare the food for you, but for solo dwellers whose schedule can vary day to day, sometimes you will find that a meal or two will not be consumed because suddenly there is an event you need to go to out of town. You get my point.
Sekaya, a plant-based brand that offers superfood powders that aim to support and optimize one’s healthy and active lifestyle had a nice idea. Recently, Sekaya teamed up with Olympic and elite performance nutrition coach Jeaneth Aro and raw food chef and health coach Mia Sison who gave their insight and suggestions on how to incorporate superfoods into your daily meals.
The latest Prescribing Nature Series session, which highlights How Superfood Powders Can Fuel Your Fitness put the spotlight on Sekaya Raw Actives, the brand’s line of high-quality plant-based superfood powders that are easy to mix into drinks and add to dishes.
Aro, notably the nutrition coach of athletes like Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz, said that superfoods play an outsized role in keeping athletes and active individuals in top shape.
“For highly active individuals such as pro and elite athletes or recreational athletes, it’s a must to complement and augment their healthy lifestyle habits. And superfoods can be a great addition to their toolbox of health-promoting habits,” Aro shared.
Aro emphasizes the importance of superfoods for athletes, enhancing nutrition,
energy, and recovery. Choose trusted sources with effective processing methods for optimal results.
To help people add superfoods into their daily meals and maximize their benefits, Sison shared easy tips and tricks that can help anyone make veggie-rich dishes more enticing.
“Whether you’re prepping food for yourself or your entire family, you can make healthy dishes more delicious—especially to picky eaters—by mixing in more flavors. For example, you can use coconut milk for added creaminess and sweetness,” Sison pointed out.
To demonstrate this, she crafted her own hummus using zucchinis and sesame seeds instead of the usual chickpeas and coconut nectar as a sweetener, adding a colorful twist with Sekaya Raw Actives Powerbeet. Sekaya’s superfood powders easily blend into various dishes and beverages, encouraging culinary experimentation. Powerbeet, enriched with
nitrates that convert to nitric oxide, enhances oxygen and energy for workouts, improving blood flow and muscle function.
Pea Protein aids muscle recovery with natural BCAAs, reducing exercise-induced protein breakdown and muscle damage. It also promotes satiety and reduces fat accumulation. For recovery, Barley Green offers antioxidants like vitamins A and C, soothing inflammation post-workout, and facilitating muscle repair with amino acids. These products optimize fitness at all levels, enhancing stamina, recovery, and overall performance.
“We’re always excited to present our Sekaya Raw Actives products, as this curated line of nutrient-dense and easyto-mix superfoods has been helping many users stay active and achieve their fitness and health goals,” Kimi Abapo, Marketing Manager at Synnovate, emphasized.
“Our mission is to educate Filipinos about high-quality natural products. Initiatives like the Prescribing Nature Series help us inform and empower consumers to make informed choices.”
Learn more about Sekaya and its products by checking out its official social media accounts and website.
You may reach the author at joba.botana@ gmail.com
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE BUREAU OF INTERNAL REVENUE Quezon City
ORDER
September 11, 2023
SUBJECT : IMPLEMENTATION OF THE REVISED SCHEDULES OF ZONAL VALUES OF REAL PROPERTIES IN THE CITY OF CALAMBA (6TH REVISION) AND THE MUNICIPALITIES OF LOS BAÑOS, STA. CRUZ (5 REVISION), PILA, VICTORIA, BAY AND CALAUAN, LAGUNA (4TH REVISION), WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF REVENUE DISTRICT OFFICE NO. 56 – CALAMBA CITY, CENTRAL LAGUNA, REVENUE REGION NO. 9B – LAQUEMAR, SAN PABLO CITY, LAGUNA FOR INTERNAL REVENUE TAX PURPOSES. TO : All Internal Revenue Officers and Others Concerned.
Under Section 4 of Republic Act 10963, otherwise known as the “Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN)” Law, amending Section 6 (E) of National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC) of 1997, the Commissioner is hereby authorized to divide the Philippines into different zones or areas and shall determine the fair market value of real properties located in each zone or areas, subject to automatic adjustment once every three (3) years.
By virtue of said authority, and after the conduct of public hearing on March 17, 2023, the Commissioner of Internal Revenue has determined the zonal values of real properties in the City of Calamba (6th Revision) and the Municipalities of Los Baños, Sta. Cruz (5th Revision), Pila, Victoria, Bay and Calauan, Laguna (4th Revision), within the jurisdiction of Revenue District Office No. 56 – Calamba City, Central Laguna, Revenue Region No. 9B – LaQueMar, San Pablo City, Laguna..
This Order is therefore issued to implement the revised schedules of zonal values of real properties for purposes of computation of any internal revenue tax due on sale/ transfer or any other disposition of real properties. The zonal values established herein shall apply provided the same is higher than (1) the fair market value as shown in the schedule of values of the provincial or city assessor and (2) the gross selling price/ consideration as shown in the duly notarized document of sale or transfer of real property. This Order shall take effect immediately.
BENJAMIN E. DIOKNO Secretary of Finance
RECOMMENDED BY:
ROMEO D. LUMAGUI, JR. Commissioner of Internal Revenue
DEFINITION OF TERMS RESIDENTIAL LAND/CONDOMINIUM PRINCIPALLY DEVOTED TO HABITATION.
COMMERCIAL LAND DEVOTED PRINCIPALLY TO COMMERCIAL PURPOSES AND GENERALLY FOR THE OBJECT OF PROFIT.
INDUSTRIAL DEVOTED PRINCIPALLY TO INDUSTRY AS CAPITAL.
AGRICULTURAL DEVOTED PRINCIPALLY TO RAISING OF CROP SUCH AS RICE, CORN, SUGARCANE, TOBACCO, ETC. OR TO PASTURING, INLAND FISHING, SALT-MAKING, AND OTHER AGRICULTURAL USES INCLUDING TIMBERLAND AND FOREST LAND.
GENERAL PURPOSE RAWLAND, UNDEVELOPED AND UNDERDEVELOPED AREA WHICH HAS POTENTIAL FOR DEVELOPMENT INTO RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL, INSTITUTIONAL, ETC. MUST NOT BE LESS THAN 5,000 SQUARE METERS.
VICINITY MEANS AN AREA, LOCALITY, NEIGHBORHOOD OR DISTRICT ABOUT, NEAR, ADJACENT PROXIMATE OR CONTIGUOUS TO A STREET BEING LOCATED.
APPROVED SCHEDULE OF ZONAL VALUES FOR A PARTICULAR BARANGAY -
a.) NO ZONAL VALUE HAS BEEN PRESCRIBED FOR A PARTICULAR CLASSIFICATION IN A PARTICULAR STREET/SUBDIVISION IN A BARANGAY, THE ZONAL VALUE PRESCRIBED FOR THE SAME CLASSIFICATION OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE OTHER STREET/SUBDIVISION WITHIN THE SAME BARANGAY OF SIMILAR CONDITIONS SHALL BE USED; AND
b.) NO ZONAL VALUE HAS BEEN PRESCRIBED FOR A PARTICULAR CLASSIFICATION OF REAL PROPERTY IN ONE BARANGAY, THE ZONAL VALUE PRESCRIBED FOR THE SAME CLASSIFICATION OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED IN AN ADJACENT BARANGAY OF SIMILAR CONDITIONS SHALL BE USED.
2. PREDOMINANT USE OF PROPERTY.
a.) ALL REAL PROPERTIES, REGARDLESS OF ACTUAL USE, LOCATED IN A STREET/BARANGAY/ZONE, THE USE OF WHICH ARE PREDOMINANTLY COMMERCIAL SHALL BE CLASSIFIED AS “COMMERCIAL” FOR PURPOSES OF ZONAL VALUATION.
b.) THE PREDOMINANT USE OF OTHER CLASSIFICATION OF PROPERTIES LOCATED IN A STREET/BARANGAY/ZONE, REGARDLESS OF ACTUAL USE SHALL BE CONSIDERED FOR PURPOSES OF ZONAL VALUATION.
3. ZONAL VALUES OF CONDOMINIUM UNIT/TOWNHOUSE:
IF THE TITLE OF A PARTICULAR CONDOMINIUM UNIT/TOWNHOUSE IS -
a.) A CONDOMINIUM CERTIFICATE OF TITLE (CCT), THE ZONAL VALUE OF THE LAND AND THE IMPROVEMENTS SHALL BE TREATED AS ONE; OR
b.) A TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE (TCT), THE LAND AND IMPROVEMENT SHALL BE GIVEN SEPARATE VALUES, i.e. ZONAL VALUE/GROSS SELLING PRICE/FAIR MARKET VALUE PER LATEST TAX DECLARATION WHICHEVER IS HIGHER AND, IN THE ABSENCE OF ZONAL VALUATION, PROPERTY SHALL BE VALUED PURSUANT TO RAMO 2-91. THE GROUND FLOOR OF THE RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM SHALL BE CLASSIFIED AS COMMERCIAL AND TWENTY PERCENT (20%) OF THE ESTABLISHED VALUE SHALL BE ADDED THERETO.
4. AREAS FOR PRIORITY DEVELOPMENT (APD).
THESE ARE AREAS IDENTIFIED AS AREAS FOR PRIORITY DEVELOPMENT CERTIFIED TO AS SUCH BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SETTLEMENTS AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT (DHSUD). IF IT IS UTILIZED FOR SOCIAL HOUSING, IT SHALL BE CERTIFIED TO AS SUCH BY THE PROPER GOVERNMENT AGENCY, SUCH AS PRESIDENTIAL COMMISSION ON URBAN POOR (PCUP), NATIONAL HOUSING AUTHORITY (NHA), ETC.
SECOND SALE OF LOT IDENTIFIED AS LOCATED IN THE APD SHALL NO LONGER BE VALUED AS AN APD AND SHALL BE TREATED AS AN ORDINARY REAL PROPERTY.
5. DIVISION OF A BARANGAY
IN THE EVENT THAT AN EXISTING BARANGAY IS DIVIDED INTO TWO OR MORE BARANGAYS, THE ZONAL VALUE PRESCRIBED FOR THE EXISTING BARANGAY SHALL BE USED FOR THE NEWLY CREATED BARANGAY
6. PARKING SLOT (PS)
IF NO ZONAL VALUE HAS BEEN PRESCRIBED FOR PARKING SLOTS, THE VALUE SHOULD BE 60% OF THE AMOUNT OF THE UNIT SOLD
7. INSTITUTION (X) THESE ARE AREAS FOR SCHOOL, HOSPITAL AND CHURCHES. IF NO ZONAL VALUE HAS BEEN PRESCRIBED, THE COMMERCIAL VALUE OF THE PROPERTY NEAREST TO THE INSTITUTION, WITHIN THE SAME BARANGAY AND STREET SHALL BE USED.
8. ZONAL VALUE OR FMV ESTABLISHED IN THE SCHEDULE OF VALUES OF ASSESSORS. THE ZONAL VALUES ESTABLISHED HEREIN SHALL APPLY IN COMPUTING ALL INTERNAL REVENUE TAXES (i.e. CAPITAL GAINS, CREDITABLE WITHHOLDING, ESTATE, DONOR’S, AND DOCUMENTARY STAMP TAXES)
DUE ON SALES, EXCHANGES, OR OTHER DISPOSITIONS OF REAL PROPERTY. PROVIDED, THAT THE SAME IS HIGHER THAN (1.) THE FAIR MARKET VALUE AS SHOWN IN THE SCHEDULE OF VALUES OF THE PROVINCIAL AND CITY ASSESSORS (i.e. LATEST TAX DECLARATION) AND (2.) THE GROSS SELLING PRICE AS SHOWN IN THE DULY NOTARIZED DOCUMENT OF SALE OR EXCHANGE AT THE TIME OF SALE OR EXCHANGE.
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, THAT THE VALUE OF PROPERTY TO BE USED IN COMPUTING ESTATE AND DONOR’S TAXES SHALL BE (1) THE FAIR MARKET VALUE AS DETERMINED BY THE COMMISSIONER OF INTERNAL REVENUE (i.e. ZONAL VALUES) OR (2) THE FAIR MARKET VALUE AS SHOWN IN THE SCHEDULE OF VALUES OF THE PROVINCIAL/CITY/MUNICIPAL ASSESSOR, WHICHEVER IS HIGHER.