Manila Standard - 2023 October 10 - Tuesday

By Rey Requejo, Charles Dantes, Vito Barcelo

Gaza Strip after vowing a massive blow over the militants’ surprise attack. AFP

World oil prices jump on tensions, no impact yet on local fuel costs

JERUSALEM—Israel imposed a total siege on the Gaza Strip Monday and cut off the water supply as it kept bombing targets in the Palestinian enclave in response to the Hamas surprise assault it has likened to the 9/11 attacks.

Reeling from the Islamist group’s unprecedented ground, air and sea attacks, Israel has counted over 700 dead and launched a withering barrage of strikes on Gaza that have killed 560 people there.

The skies over Gaza were blackened by plumes of smoke from deafening explosions as Hamas kept launching rockets as far as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, where missile defense systems fired and air raid sirens blared.

Hamas -- whose militants surged into Israeli towns on Saturday, sprayed gunfire at civilians and dragged off about 100 hostages -- claimed on Monday that Israeli air strikes had killed four of the captives. Israel said it had called up 300,000 army reservists, and truck convoys were seen moving

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vows biggest transport strike next Monday

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STRIKE ANNOUNCEMENT. Members of the transport group Manibela protest at the University of the Philippines-Diliman in Quezon City on Monday, when they announced a nationwide strike starting

PBBM suspends LTFRB chief Guadiz

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Marcos has suspended Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Chief Teofilo Guadiz III due to alleged corruption under his leadership.

In a statement Monday, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said that President Marcos would not tolerate any misconduct in his administration and ordered an immediate investigation into the allegations.

“(Mr. Marcos) strongly condemns dishonesty and duplicity in public service,” PCO added.

LTFRB Chief Teofilo Guadiz III

P5-b Bulacan road project unwraps

By Charles Dantes

THE government on Monday inaugurated the Arterial Road Bypass Project Phase III (ARBP III) in Bulacan.

The project is primarily funded through an Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). It has a total project cost of P5.26 billion.

President Marcos, in a speech read by Special Assistant to President Antonio Ernesto Floirendo Lagdameo Jr., said the road is an important step toward a “better Philippines.”

The President also said the inauguration “is a call to action, and a call to work tirelessly toward the ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ vision for a more progressive Philippines.”

President Marcos also said the project would also help boost the production of the farming industry and attract investments in Bulacan.

The 22.4-kilometer ARBP III is an infrastructure flagship project (IFP) under the Build-Better-More Program.

It involves widening the existing Plaridel Bypass Road in Bulacan from two to four lanes. The ARBP III aims to reduce travel time from Balagtas to San Rafael in Bulacan from one hour to just 24 minutes.

Contract Packages 3 and 4 were completed on March 31, 2021, and April 30, 2023, respectively. Contract Package 3 was opened to traffic in July 2021. Meanwhile, Contract Packages 1 and 2 are targeted to be completed by March 2024.

GCash assures users funds safe despite glitches

By Darwin G. Amojelar

key driver of spiking prices, giving a fresh headache to central banks as they try to ease up on interest rate hikes to avoid recessions.

The surprise attack and Israel’s declaration of war in response to it have left more than 1,000 dead and raised concerns that a potential broadening of the conflict could draw in the United States and Iran.

Locally, oil companies rolled back pump prices by as much as P3.05 per liter effective 6 a.m. Tuesday, but industry officials said this did not yet reflect the impact the war in Israel would have on world oil prices.

The price of gasoline fell by P3.05 per liter, kerosene by P3 a liter, and diesel by P2.45 per liter, reflecting the movement of prices in the world oil market before the Hamas attack.

Phoenix Petroleum, Seaoil Philippines, PTT Philippines, Cleanfuel, Jetti Petroleum, and PetroGazz issued separate announcements of the rollback.

With the latest adjustment on Tuesday, the year-to-date increase for gasoline is at P12.25 per liter, diesel at P11.35 per liter, and kerosene at P5.94 per liter.

On Oct. 3, the oil companies cut the price of gasoline by P2 per liter and P0.50 per liter for kerosene. However, the oil firms increased diesel prices by P0.40 per liter.

“Natural gas plants supplying [power] to Meralco were compelled to use more expensive alternative fuel during the last supply month,” said Meralco’s head of utility economics, Lawrence Fernandez.

Also on Monday, Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte questioned the move by Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla to junk a two-year-old proposal for the government to put up a strategic petroleum reserve (SPR) to address volatile fuel prices.

Villafuerte, National Unity Party (NUP) president, said the decision of Lotilla was “ill-timed” as prices for oil look poised to go even higher with the Israel-Hamas war.

Amid speculation that the cost of oil in the global market could hit $100 per barrel in the months ahead, Villafuerte said he was disconcerted by the DOE’s decision to no longer pursue a plan started in the past administration to establish an SPR because—according to Lotilla—such a facility is expensive, would not directly slash fuel prices, and was incompatible with the government’s promotion of electric vehicles. With AFP

Libreng Sakay by Nov. ‘early Christmas gift’

By Rio N. Araja

AS AN early Christmas gift to commuters, the government will roll out its expanded “Libreng Sakay” or free ride program that will now include public utility jeepneys starting Nov. 1.

Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board chairman Teofilo Guadiz III said the program, which covers both EDSA Carousel buses and jeepneys, shall kick off in Metro Manila.

“It is an early Christmas gift to the riding public,” Guadiz said.

Earlier, Jefferey Tumbado, a former executive assistant of Guadiz, accused the LTFRB chief of corruption over the alleged “lagay” or bribing system inside the agency.

During a press conference organized by the transport group Manibela, Tumbado said some involved in the system had previously shelled out P5 million to gain favor from the agency, particularly in acquiring permits and route modifications.

President Marcos named Guadiz, the former Land Transportation Office (LTO) chief, to chair the LTFRB last December.

He replaced former LTFRB chief Cheloy Garafil, who resigned from her post in October 2022 to serve as officer-in-charge of the Office of the Press Secretary.

Garafil in turn replaced former Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles, who quit in the same month due to health reasons.

As LTFRB chairperson, Guadiz is in charge of promulgating, administering, enforcing, and monitoring compliance of policies, laws, and regulations of public land transportation services.

Prior to his appointment, he served as LTO chief and Department of Transportation (DOTr) Assistant Secretary for the Road Sector.

GCASH assured its users that their funds are safe amid their inability to make transactions since early morning Monday.

Gcash is the mobile wallet service owned by Globe Fintech Innovations (Mynt), and operated by its whollyowned subsidiary, G-Xchange, Inc. of Globe Telecom Inc.

“You may be experiencing intermit-

tent access to some of our services. Please bear with us as we’re working on getting them back up as quickly as possible,” GCash said.

“We will post another update for you soon. Meanwhile, rest assured that your funds are safe,” it added.

GCash was trending on X, formerly Twitter this morning after users complained of accessing the digital platform.

“#gcash, your service is clearly down.

treated at a hospital for moderate injuries sustained during the rescue, Laylo said.

Calls to your hotline are promptly disconnected,” X user @jimoberman said.

“You need to treat we, your paying customers who rely on your service, with respect by providing notification that the service is down and an estimate when service will be restored,” the X user added.

Another X user @rosasmayoo said, “#gcash please let us know the estimated downtime as we have bills to pay.”

of them are not in the southern portion near the Gaza Strip.

“If before, only Edsa Carousel buses were covered under the program, now the jeepneys are included,” he added. He said the free rides will last until the end of December and will also be launched in other regions as well.

The government has allocated a P1.3-billion budget for the program under a joint circular to be released this month, Guadiz said.

After almost two years during the pandemic, the free rides service at the EDSA Carousel system ended on January 1, 2023.

The free bus ride program used to service around 320,000 to 390,000 passengers daily.

safer area, and are now housed in hotels,” Laylo said.

The ambassador said the Embassy also received a video “showing a man being held by armed individuals, most likely brought to Gaza.”

“A Filipina reached out and said that she recognized her husband on the said video,” Laylo said.

“While it cannot independently verify the man’s identity based on the video alone, the Embassy considers the report of the wife as compelling and urgently relayed the information to the Israel authorities.”

Of the rescued OFWs, one is being

Another was initially treated for smoke inhalation and is now resting in a hotel in Tel Aviv, he added.

“Seven remain unaccounted for and cannot be contacted via their mobile numbers and social media accounts.

The Embassy is working non-stop with Israeli security authorities and community contacts to ascertain their condition,” Laylo said.

Overseas Workers Welfare Administration head Arnell Ignacio earlier identified five of the unaccounted OFWs as Grace Cabrera, Shelly Morillo, Norilyn Babadilla, Gallenor Leandro Pacheco, and Loreta Alacre.

According to the DFA, there are close to 30,000 Filipinos in Israel, but most

briefing Jefferey Tumbado, a former executive assistant of LTFRB chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III, who was suspended by the President on Monday.

The embassy earlier advised OFWs living near the Gaza Strip and south Israel to follow the safety guidelines released by the Home Front Command through an instructional video.

For his part, Senator Christopher Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers, called on the government to conduct a swift and comprehensive inventory of all affected OFWs.

“The safety of our kababayans is paramount. I urge the Department of Migrant Workers, Department of Foreign Affairs, and POEA (Philippine Overseas Employment Administration) to act swiftly and ensure that every Filipino worker is accounted for,” said Go.

drivers to bring a copy of the LTFRB order on the provisional fare hike.

Farmers:...

From A1

Farmers Cooperative told radio dzBB, speaking in Filipino.

He said it was uncertain how steep the price drop would be, and said it was too early to say if the supply would remain stable, given the potential problems such as the El Niño phenomenon, or the possibility of strong typhoons that could affect the quantity and quality of harvested rice.

He called for government support for farmers and spoke out against imports.

“When it comes to food, we should not depend on other countries for our supply,” he said.

Metro Manila, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon and Central Luzon.

“This will be the biggest transport strike to be experienced by the government. This is not only a transport strike but is also protest action in front of the LTFRB, Department of Transportation, and Malacañang,” he said in a press briefing Monday.

“We are not fighting the government. We are fighting corruption that has caused the suffering of the Filipino people. We hope that our beloved President would take action on the matter,” he added.

Manibela presented during the press

Tumbado accused the LTFRB chief of corruption over the alleged “lagay” or bribing system inside the agency (see related story on A1 – Editors). Meanwhile, several jeepney drivers said they encountered difficulties in implementing the P1 provisional fare hike as the LTFRB has yet to issue a new fare matrix. While the LTFRB allowed the implementation of the P1 provisional minimum fare hike, it said will only issue a new fare matrix once a decision on the P5 fare hike petition has been reached.

Transport groups advised jeepney

one to watch the Formula 1 Grand Prix race in Singapore in October 2022.

The LTFRB also announced Monday it is planning to increase the subsidy to P250,000 for drivers and operators under the PUV modernization program.

Guadiz said the agency is asking for an additional P1.2 billion from Congress for the subsidy.

“It means if you join the modernization program, the government will give you P250,000,” he said.

Guadiz said those who already received the P180,000 subsidy for PUV modernization will be given additional funding to reach the P250,000 ceiling.

Drivers and operators earlier complained about the cost of the modernization program, which they said can hit over P2 million.

He noted if the government continues to rely on imports, farmers would be discouraged from increasing their production.

Meanwhile, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said the government should implement a targeted rice subsidy program in the next three to six months to alleviate food insecurity among the country’s bottom 30 percent income households.

He cited the need for the government to immediately address soaring prices to improve their lives amid rising inflation, which rose to 6.1 percent in September, a four-month high. While higher consumer prices take a toll on everyone, those severely affected by it are the poorest of the poor,” Gatchalian said.

added.

Mr. Marcos is also scheduled to attend the ASEAN Cooperation Council, APEC Economic Leaders in the United States, the Climate Change Conference in Dubai, and the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit in Tokyo, de Vega added.

As of early August, the Chief Executive had made 14 foreign trips since he took office on June 30, 2022, including

The President has made five state visits—Indonesia, Singapore, China, Japan, and Malaysia.

He again watched the Singapore Grand Prix-Formula 1 in mid-September.

Mr. Marcos also went on an official visit to the United States from April 30 to May 4 this year.

He also was a guest at the coronation of King Charles III on May 6, 2023.

De Vega noted the President would represent the Philippines “at the highest

tanyahu has warned Gaza civilians to get away from all Hamas sites, which he vowed to turn “to rubble”.

level” and that it was important for Mr. Marcos to be on those trips, as the heads of state of other countries are also going to be there.

“All the ASEAN leaders will be in those meetings. Do you want our President not to be there?” he said in a television interview over ABS-CBN.

“He’s going to talk to Saudi Arabia. We know we have pending issues,” De Vega said.

“If he’s not going there, then the Philippines is not represented at the highest level. He has to be there,” De Vega

shaken to the core by Hamas’s unprecedented attack.

Earlier, the Commission on Audit (COA) reported that the Office of the President (OP) incurred P403.088 million in travel expenses in 2022, up by a whopping 995.6 percent or P366.296 million from the P36.792 million in total travel expenses in 2021.

In the proposed 2024 national budget, Malacañang asked for P1.408 billion to fund Marcos’ local and foreign trips next year, a 58 percent jump from his 2023 travel allocation. Rey E. Requejo

Zaka volunteer group which helped collect the bodies.

tanks to the south, where its forces had dislodged the last holdout Hamas fighters from embattled towns.

“We are in control of the communities,” said military spokesman Daniel Hagari, cautioning that some “terrorists” may remain after about 1,000 militants swarmed into the region on the Jewish Sabbath.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said Israel would impose a “complete siege” on the long blockaded enclave and stressed what this meant for its 2.3 million people: “No electricity, no food, no water, no gas -- it’s all closed.”

Palestinians in the impoverished coastal territory braced for what many feared will be a massive Israeli ground attack aiming to defeat Hamas and liberate the hostages. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Ne -

Middle East tensions have spiked as Israel’s arch enemy Iran and their Lebanese ally Hezbollah have praised the Hamas attack, although Tehran rejected any role in the military operation.

Hamas has called on “resistance fighters” in the occupied West Bank and in Arab and Islamic nations to join its “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood”, launched half a century after the 1973 Arab-Israel war.

The United States has pledged “rock solid” support for Israel and said it would send munitions and military hardware to its key ally and divert an aircraft carrier group to the eastern Mediterranean.

‘They butchered people’ Israel, which has long prided itself on a high-tech military and intelligence edge in its many conflicts, has been

It now faces the threat of a multi-front war after Hezbollah launched guided missiles and artillery shells from the north Sunday “in solidarity” with Hamas, in what some observers considered a warning shot.

Israel has voiced alarm and revulsion after more than 1,000 militants broke through the Gaza border fence Israel had deemed impregnable and swarmed out into nearby Jewish communities.

Among the hostages they took back into Gaza were children and a Holocaust survivor in a wheelchair, Israeli officials have said.

Up to 250 bodies were strewn across the site of a music festival in a Negev desert kibbutz, mostly young people, while other revelers were feared to be among the hostages.

“They butchered people in cold blood in an inconceivable way,” said Moti Bukjin, a spokesman for the

Israelis have voiced anger at the intelligence failure that blindsided the nation, but have attempted to put aside for now deep political divisions of recent years as they braced for what Netanyahu has warned would be a “long and difficult war”.

‘Worst in Israeli history’

“Never before have so many Israelis been killed by one single thing, let alone enemy activity in one day,” said army spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus.

The multi-pronged attack had brought “by far the worst day in Israeli history”, he said, likening it to a combination of the “9/11 and Pearl Harbor” attacks.

The situation was also dire inside Gaza, which has been blockaded by Israel since Hamas assumed control there 15 years ago, a period that has seen multiple wars with Israel. AFP

Scam cases may rise with ‘selling’ of PhilHealth data, DICT warns

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on Monday warned of rising online scam cases as hackers of Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) may sell the stolen data to scammers.

According to Jeffrey Ian Dy, undersecretary for cybersecurity, connectivity, and upskilling, “millions” of PhilHealth users were affected by the Medusa ransomware.

Dy, however, said the number of affected members will decrease because of duplicated files.

“We have analyzed the files, actually we are almost 90 percent done. We have seen that a lot of those files have questionable extensions,” he added.

On October 6, the Complaints and Investigation Division of the National Privacy Commission (NPC) completed its initial analysis of 650 gigabytes (GB) worth of compressed files origi -

Gov’t needs to partner with private sector against cyberattacks—group

CONSUMER advocacy group Citi-

zenWatch Philippines is urging the government to partner with the private sector in adopting a cybersecurity posture to protect the country’s critical infrastructure sector.

“The country’s critical infrastructure sectors must be adequately and pro-actively protected against cyberattacks as the government aggressively pushes to accelerate the expansion and upgrade of digital infrastructure,” said Atty Christopher “Kit” Belmonte, co-convenor of CitizenWatch Philippines. Belmonte als warned that “critical infrastructure systems such as energy, transportation, finance, water, food, agriculture, healthcare, and emergency response all rely on information and communications technology to operate. Cyberattacks can cause disruptions that significantly impact public safety, security, economic stability, or public health.”

“The PhilHealth ransomware incident is a painful reminder that

cyberspace is never a space safe, because hackers and other nefarious actors threaten to negate our gains in transitioning into a digital economy,” said Belmonte.

“Cyber-attacks have tangible costs – ransom paid, downtime, lack of productivity, the breach of personal information of millions, threats of exposure, not to mention the erosion of citizens’ confidence in our systems and institutions.”

The former lawmaker added that firms also have to bear the economic costs of repairing their infrastructure damaged by cyberattacks. “Worse, cyberattacks on critical infrastructure by state or nonstate actors can undermine national security and disrupt economic activity and our way of life.”

Belmonte said that hackers are always trying to be one step ahead of organizations and institutions, so the challenge is to arm ourselves, individually and collectively, for better protection.

nating from the data dump claimed by the Medusa group.

Upon extraction, the NPC said these files revealed a staggering 734GB worth of data, including personal and sensitive personal information.

When asked if the hackers will release more data, DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy said “I would not put it past them until they still have an opportunity because this stage they did not get a ransom from the government they will try to monetize the info by selling to scammers to use their data.”

The DICT further said national government agencies should have their own cybersecurity response teams amid increasing cyberattack cases.

Earlier, Medusa hackers were demanding $300,000 to return the stolen data from the PhilHealth database.

“There’s nothing for them to demand anymore, they have released the concern of the DICT. Our analysts are looking at the data and information they are posting allegedly full of data leaks. We found it loaded with malware,” Uy said.

“A warning to our countrymen that the information was used by cyber criminals to make them bait,” he added. PhilHealth earlier issued an advisory once again urging the public to be vigilant and take preventive measures against fraudulent activities.

Group warns gov’t of rising mental health epidemic in PH

CAGAYAN DE ORO--The Philippine Mental Health Association, Inc. (PMHA) on Monday raised the alarm over a rising epidemic of mental health illnesses in the country.

The group, composed of mental health professionals and advocates, said that the situation needs widespread awareness, support, and action.

“We have noticed a sharp increase in mental health concerns during and after the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns,” said Dr. Cornelio Banaag, Jr., PMHA president during a World Mental Health Day activity in Cagayan de Oro City.

“Mental health-related issues affect Filipinos of all ages and backgrounds - young or old, rich or poor. It is a silent epidemic that we need to confront head-on,” he added.

In the Philippines, mental illness is becoming a common disability and at least 3.6 million Filipinos suffer from mental, neurological, and substance use disorders, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

The PMHA said that access to mental health services in the country remains limited and unequal due to stigma and scarce resources. There is also less than one mental health worker for every 100,000 Filipinos, according to the group.

PMHA called for the stronger implementation of the Philippine Mental Health Act or Republic Act No. 11036, enactment of local mental health ordinances, more funding to expand mental health services, and a constant public awareness campaign.

EXPERIENCE BICOL.

Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and other officials visited the Bulusan Volcano Natural Park, Barcelona Church, and Ruins in Sorsogon (inset) on the first day of the “Experience Bicol” tour. Norman Cruz

Assistant majority leader and Quezon City Rep. Patrick Michael Vargas meanwhile appealed to fellow legislators to support the enactment of measures that promote mental health.

The House of Representatives has approved on third reading House Bill (HB) 6416 or the State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) Mental Health Service Act. Maricel Cruz

TRADITIONAL PAROL. A traditional parol maker crafts colorful Christmas lanterns made of bamboo and colored cellophane or paper. Vendors in Central Market in Sta. Cruz, Manila are now busy assembling made-to-order parols which they said were placed as early as June. Joan Bondoc

Coast Guard locates sunken fishing boat rammed by tanker

By Vince Lopez

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has located the fishing boat that sank off Pangasinan last week after being hit by a foreign oil tanker.

According to PCG spokesperson

Admiral Armand Balilo, the fishing boat Dearyn was located 180 nautical miles off Agno, Pangasinan.

“Based on the PCG report, the fishing boat Dearyn is reportedly in bad condition and would require to be lifted onboard a salvor ship to prevent further damaging the boat that would be used in the investigation of the collision with a crude oil tanker TCR Pacific Anna,” Balilo said in a message.

“From its initial position of being capsized on its left side, with

its two outriggers already detached and its plywood-made bow already missing, the fishing boat was reported to be floating,” he added. Balilo also said that the salvor is expected to reach the location in two days’ travel and will make it back to mainland Pangasinan on a two or three days voyage.

“The salvor, which is expected to leave Navotas on Monday evening, would take around two days of travel time to reach the location of the FFB Dearyn and it would take another two to three days to reach the shore,” Balilo said.

Earlier, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela said that they want to recover the fishing boat and use it as evidence in the cases that may be filed over the collision.

Abalos appeals to LGUs to support EO halting pass-through charges

By Vince Lopez

DEPARTMENT of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. on Friday met with officials of the Union of Local Authorities of Philippines (ULAP) to discuss collaboration to halt the collection of pass-through fees. President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. earlier issued Executive Order (EO) 41 urging local government units (LGUs) to suspend the collection of any form of fees upon all types of vehicles transporting goods under Section 153 or 155 of Republic Act No. 7160 or the Local Government Code of 1991. Such fees include sticker fees, dis-

charging fees, delivery fees, market fees, toll fees, entry fees, or Mayor’s Permit fees that are imposed upon all motor vehicles transporting goods and passing through any local public roads constructed and funded by said LGUs. Abalos urged ULAP president and Quirino Governor Dax Cua and other league officials to encourage their member LGUs to pass resolutions supporting EO 41. “The DILG recognizes that LGUs are essential partners of the national government in achieving national development goals. We, therefore, urge ULAP to mobilize support for EO 41 to facilitate the seamless flow of goods and services throughout the country,” Abalos said.

LEGO REPLICAS OF AMORSOLO PAINTINGS.

On the death anniversary of master painter Fernando Amorsolo, the Quezon City government arranges an exhibition of exhibition of Amorsolo creations in Lego bricks. Mayor Joy Belmonte, joined by Amorsolo daughter Sylvia A. Lazo and grandson Nandy Amorsolo, presides at the opening of the exhibits at the Quezon City Hall. Manny Palmero

AFP revisits arms upgrade program

IN BRIEF

PBBM’s anti-drug drive nets P30b

THE Marcos administration’s anti-illegal drugs campaign has so far resulted in the seizure of 7.4 tons of banned substances worth some P30 billion.

Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Dangerous Drugs, revealed this at the start of the panel’s hearing on House Resolutions 1346 and 1351 authored by Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. and Rep. Jefferson Khonghun, respectively, to investigate the drug hauling incidents in Mexico, Pampanga, and in Subic port.

Officials of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the Bureau of Customs, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Authority (PDEA), and the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) attended the hearing.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt felicitations to the law enforcement agencies, the PDEA, NBI, PDEG, and the Bureau of Customs, for a very very fruitful campaign against illegal drugs under the administration of President Marcos,” Barbers said in his opening statement. Maricel V. Cruz

NAIA parking lot bomber surrenders

A FORMER taxi driver tagged as a suspect in the Molotov cocktail explosion at the parking lot of Ninoy Aquino International Airport - Terminal 3 on Sept. 23 has surrended to the airport authorities.

The blast reportedly caused damage to three vehicles parked in the area.

A concerned informant provided crucial information about the incident, leading to the identification of Renieldo Dela Peña Perez, also known as “Bolayog,” as the perpetrator.

Perez admitted to throwing the device, which he claimed, he assembled using gasoline.

Police describe a Molotov bomb or cocktail as an improvised incendiary firebomb, where a flammable item is placed inside a breakable fuel bottle, usually petrol or alcohol, lit just before being thrown. Joel Zurbano

Or. Mindoro detects first cases of ASF

AUTHORITIES of Oriental Mindoro have reported detection of their first cases of African swine fever (ASF).

Governor Bonz Dolor, in a statement, said the cases of ASF, which does not affect human health, came from the Danggay and Bagumbayan villages in Roxas town. He ordered sample testing for the highly contagious pig disease in five more villages in Roxas as well as in one village in Mansalay town that reported suspected ASF cases.

Checkpoints will be put up in the borders of Roxas and Bongabong towns and in the Roxas-Mansalay boundary, he said.

The sale of pork through the Danggay or Roxas ports is prohibited starting Monday, the governor added.

Governor Dolor said he would recommend to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to place Roxas and Mansalay towns under a state of calamity following the ASF detection in the province.

SENATE SPOUSES BRING CHEERS TO MOTHERS

The Senate Spouses Foundation, Inc. (SSFI) led by its president Audrey Zubiri spearheads the distribution of some 1,200 care packages to mothers of students enrolled at Jose Rizal Elementary School and P. Villanueva Elementary School in Pasay City. Senate PRIB photo

Survey says less than one-half of Pinoys climate change savvy

LESS than one-half of Filipino adults say that they know enough about climate change, a Pulse Asia survey showed Monday.

Results of the latest survey show that 44 percent of Filipino adults assert they have sufficient knowledge about climate change, while 40 percent admit they have little knowledge of the issue.

“From June 2022 to September 2023, there is an increase in the percentage of Filipinos with enough knowledge about climate change (+10 percentage points) while the reverse occurs in terms of those with little knowledge (-6 percentage points),” the survey stated.

Metro Manilans indicated they were more knowledgeable about climate change, while only 41% say they know only little about the topic.

The majority of Filipinos living in Luzon and Mindanao as well as all socio-economic groups, however, said that they have only little knowledge about climate change.

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is modifying further its modernization program with a view to providing the military with the capabilities to protect the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) or 200 nautical miles from its coast.

Meanwhile, the forging of a strategic partnership between Philippines and Australia recently has strengthened bilateral relations between the two countries, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo said on Monday.

Undergoing the changes is Horizon 3 of the AFP Modernization Program, military chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. told reporters.

The reconfiguration, Brawner said, was in accordance to recommendations by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. shortly after taking over the defense portfolio last June from then Defense Senior Undersecretary Carlito Galvez Jr. who was reappointed as Presidential Peace Adviser.

“When the SND (Secretary of National Defense) was appointed, he saw Horizon 3 and told us to revisit or in his words “rehorizon” it, Brawner said.

“So we looked at it and found out Horizon 3 was made prior to the events that happened (in the West Philippine Sea) such as the water cannoning and laser pointing. Parang ang focus nya was territorial defense in depth yun yung luma na strategy (So we looked at it, the original Horizon 3 was made prior to the events that happened, the water cannoning, laser pointing, His focus was like territorial defense in depth, that’s the old strategy,” Brawner added.

He was referring to the incidents where the Chinese tried to interfere with Philippine resupply missions to its detachment aboard the BRP Sierra Madre which is keeping watch over Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Brawner pointed out that the original Horizon 3 was made with “territorial defense in depth” in mind, meaning the

military has to wait for threats to happen before engaging them with the “first, second, third, and fourth line of defense”.

“But this time because of what’s happening, proactive tayo. So sabi ni SND says we need to be proactive, and we project outwards our defenses,” Brawner said.

Under the modification, defensive efforts will focus on defending the Philippines’ EEZ and not only the country’s baselines or coasts.

Brawner said this refocus is akin to the United States’ defense strategy of “forward defense” where threats are contained or repulsed as far away as possible.

In this shift, he said the AFP aims to protect Philippine-held islands in the WPS which he identified as Pag-asa, Panata, Parola, Likas, Patag and Lawak.

Aside from these islands, the country is also occupying four other structures in the WPS– Kota Island, Likas Island, Rizal Reef, and Ayungin Shoal.

Brawner said the AFP needs equipment capable of projecting defenses forward to carry out this mission.

“So we need multirole-fighters (MRFs), naval vessels, and submarines to be able to protect not only the WPS, but also the North and East such as the Philippine Rise,” Brawner said.

“The only exception is the Visayas, where a small majority of adult residents (56 percent) claim to have sufficient knowledge. Meanwhile, 11 percent of adults say they have wide knowledge about climate change while five percent have almost/completely no knowledge,” the survey stated. Despite this, 68 percent of Filipinos consider climate change to be dangerous for the environment, with the view being more prominent in Visayas and Mindanao.

Only 11 percent believe that climate change is not dangerous while 21% are ambivalent on the matter, according to the survey.

Meanwhile, 71 percent of Filipino adults believe that climate change is dangerous to themselves and their families, 12 percent say climate change is not dangerous, and 17 percent are undecided.

Results of the survey also show that 46 percent of Filipinos attribute calamities to human-made environmental destruction while 32 percent believe that calamities are natural processes.

Around 21 percent, meanwhile, believe that calamities serve as warnings or some form of punishment from God.

Remulla seeks law against case-filing modus of unwanted aliens

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin

Remulla yesterday asked the Senate to craft a law imposing stiffer penalties on lawyers in alleged case filing racket to avert deportation of foreigners.

In yesterday’s hearing on the proposed budget of the Department of Justice (DOJ) for next year, Remulla told the panel presided by Senate Finance committee chairman

Senator Juan Edgardo Angara that such lawyers conspire with unwanted foreigners in filing cases to avoid deportation. He said these foreigners opted to stay in the Philippines than be sent back to their home country. He said these foreigners opted to stay in the Philippines than sent back to their country of origin.

He noted that this scheme has been a source of income for some lawyers.

Dela Rosa: Socorro members offer to testify in Senate probe

WITH their leader currently in jail, more and more members of the alleged cult Socorro Bayanihan Services Inc. (SBSI) were stepping forward to testify in the ongoing Senate inquiry on the controversy.

This was disclosed by Senator Ronald dela Rosa, chairman of the Senate Public Order and Illegal Drugs who said the would-be witnesses have sent words to the local government that they will give their testimonies on the SBSI.

“They have turned their back on the cult and became courageous now,” Dela Rosa said. The senator earlier noted that some of those who escaped from the group refused to cooperate in the investigation.

The group’s members refused to

testify out of fear of their alleged leader, Jey Terence, alias Agil At present however, even the children who escaped from the cult aired their intention to testify before the Senate probe led by Dela Rosa and Senator Risa Hontiveros.

“That’s a good development. They became brave,” he said.

The senator said the next hearing on the cult’s forced marriages of minors and other crimes allegedly committed by the SBSI leader was set on Saturday.

Admitting that they could no longer find any illegal materials or contraband since the area had already been cleaned, Dela Rosa said they just want to make a realistic and very comprehensive committee report.

Macon Ramos-Araneta

RECENT developments in the decommissioning process of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have raised serious concerns about the prospects for lasting peace in the region

On July 26, 2023, Office of the Presidential Adviser on Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito Galvez announced that the government aims to complete the decommissioning of MILF combatants before the BARMM

“It’s really a source of livelihood. These lawyers resort to “demanda me” package to avoid the deportation of unwanted foreigners. Remulla also cited the need for a law that will “immediately” waive these alleged trumped-up charges filed by the foreigners against themselves.

“If we will have a law that will immediately waive these trumpedup charges then that would be good,” he said.

Under existing laws, he noted that Philippine authorities cannot deport foreigners if there have pending cases in court.

He related to the Senate panel the case of a woman who filed a case against his Japanese boyfriend for alleged violation of the Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) Act.

Remulla said they saw the complainant frequently kissing the supposed respondent in the cheeks.

elections in May 2025.

Presently, the third phase of decommissioning, which involved 26,145 MILF combatants and 4,625 weapons, has been completed. However, the fourth and final phase still aims to decommission the remaining 40,000 combatants and 7,000 firearms. The lack of a detailed plan, milestones, and timelines for addressing these normalization aspects is a significant concern.

Questions remain about what level of progress is required in these areas for

decommissioning to be considered complete and what role the whole government, national and local, and other stakeholders should play in implementing the plan.

Despite the completion of the third decommissioning phase, there has been no corresponding dismantling of MILF base commands. This absence of concrete security improvements in LGUs where MILF camps and base commands are located has eroded community trust in the decommissioning process and the overall peace process, the OPAPRU said in a statement.

Concerns aired over slow peace process in BARMM

SOCORRO INQUIRY. Potential witnesses in the ongoing Senate probe of the Socorro Bayanihan Services Inc., an alleged cult led by Jey Rence Quilario (right) arrive at the Department of Justice in Manila. Danny Pata

Honor Blanco Cabie, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Smartmatic to enter midterm poll bid?

AMONG all members of the Cabinet we have not heard from recently, so much so that some people have asked me if she is still in the Cabinet, it’s Tourism Secretary Cristina Garcia Frasco.

She got involved in that “frasco” or rather fiasco when an advertising agency during the launch of the new slogan “LOVE THE PHILIPPINES” used what is called “stock films” to depict Filipino scenes.

Santa Banana, instead of using Filipino stock films, the advertising agency used stock films from Indonesia, Thailand and Switzerland.

My gulay, to think that Frasco paid the agency P49 million for them.

To escape the fiasco, Frasco went on leave, obviously to get away from the heat.

And nothing was heard from that slogan since then.

I raise this issue because for all intents and purposes, Frasco should now be promoting to both foreigners and domestics the slogan, “Love the Philippines.”

What’s to “Love the Philippines”?

I am not allergic to that slogan because there are really many things to love in the Philippines.

Indeed, the beaches, the diving spots, the centuries-old churches and the heritage homes and places, and in particular, Boracay, Palawan and the Bohol resorts are incomparable, the food and the warm smiles and hospitality of the people, and a lot of other things.

Party candidate Leni Robredo.

I was watching the counting of votes during the 2016 elections when BBM was winning by a good margin but at midnight I dozed off.

But when I woke up at two o’clock in the morning, I got the shock of my life when I saw that the results were in favor of Robredo.

I knew that something was wrong because when the final results were all in, BBM lost by a narrow margin. Sure enough Marcos Jr. filed a protest before the election tribunal headed by an associate justice of the Supreme Court.

The ponente of the cases went to Associate Justice Marivic Leonen Oh no, I said to myself.

Sure enough, when the final decision came, Robredo won, and in places where BBM was reported to have won, he lost, Santa Banana!

BBM got his vindication against Robredo in 2022.

And Comelec is at it again, qualifying Smartmatic’s Houdini counting machines.

Illegal drugs

But, what bothers me is, why is DOT so silent now when it should be “selling” to the world the Philippines and to Filipinos themselves, coming out with videos and photos over television, social media and websites on what’s to love about the Philippines.

I am beginning to wonder whether or not she is aware of her job description that a Tourism Secretary is nothing more than a salesperson.

Indeed there are things to love in the Philippines, and, as a salesperson, Frasco should now be visiting other countries like the United States, Europe, the Middle East, South America, Australia and New Zealand for their nationals to come to the Philippines and end their visit loving the Philippines.

I’m fully aware that selling the country, especially through television, social media and websites and through brochures and posters, costs a lot of dollars.

But another thing that bothers me is why the DOT Secretary seems to be doing nothing when there are so many things for a DOT Secretary to do to make the world love the Philippines.

Is Frasco aware that she really is DOT secretary?

And most importantly, is she fit for that job?

Or did President Marcos Jr. make a mistake in naming a mayor from a lovely municipality called Liloan in Cebu to fill up the big shoes led by former DOT secretaries?

During congressional deliberations on the budget, it was an opportunity for Frasco to ask for budget allotment for her job as salesperson, but she did not.

It’s all for these reasons why I believe the country needs a new tourism secretary before it’s too late, Santa Banana? Smartmatic again?

There are reports Smartmatic will again enter the bidding for the 2025 midterm elections.

My reaction is, OH NO, not again!

Not after former election chairman Andres Bautista was charged in the United States with bribery and money laundering.

Truly, I have become allergic to Smartmatic handling our national election, particularly with its magical counting machines.

The Bautista case of 2016 was not the only incident where Smartmatic reportedly manipulated the results of the country’s elections.

There had been many other cases of fraud and cheating involving Smartmatic in the past that when the name of Smartmatic came up in the bidding for the 2025 midterm polls, my immediate reaction was here we go again, Santa Banana!

I cannot understand why the Commission on Elections is so in love with Smartmatic.

I can only guess one reason. And I’d rather not say it. I appeal to the Comelec to immediately disqualify Smartmatic for cases involving election manipulation and cheating.

I refer to the protest of then vice presidential candidate Ferdinand Marcos Jr. against then Liberal

The smuggling of P3.6 billion worth of shabu, which observers say is the biggest haul yet under President Marcos Jr., has boggled the minds of people, including myself, can only confirm the problem of illegal drugs in the Philippines is far from over, after the former President Duterte waged his war in illegal drugs with his “kill, kill, kill” campaign that resulted in many extra-judicial killings.

Now comes the news.

Santa Banana, there is this report a P2.9 billion worth of shabu from Mexico found in a shipment at the Manila International Container Terminal in Islang Puting Bato in Barangay 20 in Tondo was discovered by police operatives!

The illegal drugs were reportedly stuffed in more than a thousand packs of beef jerky wrapped in carbon paper to avoid detection.

Having originated from Mexico, the illegal drugs obviously came from a well-known cartel with obvious connivance with some Customs personnel.

Smuggling of contraband to the Philippines happens in connivance with Customs personnel because smugglers are not stupid enough to smuggle anything unless they have connections with Customs people.

My gulay, with that kind of amount of illegal drugs being smuggled into the country we know that anything can come through the ports.

Smuggling of agricultural products like rice, sugar, tobacco, meat, fish, poultry and onions is bad enough, especially with rice, the main staple of Filipinos by smuggling syndicates reportedly led by Chinese businessmen.

But the smuggling of contraband illegal drugs is enough to justify indicting all smugglers with economic sabotage.

Clearly the Philippines continues to be the destination of illegal drugs.

I cannot count the very many times people try to smuggle illegal drugs, like cocaine, ecstasy and other contraband through the airport at NAIA.

And now , these two attempts to smuggle billions of pesos worth of illegal drugs.

For these reasons I believe there’s need for BBM to continue Duterte’s war on illegal drugs, but not with the method the former President used which resulted in the charge that Duterte committed crimes against humanity, having killed, according to official records some 6,800 people, but unofficial sources claimed the victims were some 28, 0000.

BBM is fully aware drug users and addicts are the victims of illegal drugs so much so that he has taken the campaign on illegal drugs to make victims useful citizens again, and not to kill them.

Death of a friend

I mourn the death of a good friend, businessman Cesar Concio Jr, son of the famous architect, and husband of Charo Santos, former CEO and President of ABS-CBN. Cesar was a year behind me when I was taking a four-year Bachelor of Arts course at the old Ateneo de Manila at the ruins at Padre Faura.

My wife and I became close friends with Cesar and his first wife Lupita Aquino, the sister of the late Senator Ninoy Aquino.

My wife and I will miss Cesar. But Cesar, be assured that my wife and I will continue praying for you. May the flights of angels sing you to your rest!

THE leader of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has underscored the central priorities of a “synodal” church in anticipation of this week’s commencement of the general assembly of bishops at the Vatican.

Bishop Pablo Virgilio David has requested prayers for all participants in the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, emphasizing it will encompass representatives from seven continents and diverse sectors, including clergy, laity, and women, engaged in plenary and small-group sessions.

In a video message, he recollected the synod’s objective of establishing a more “synodal Church” that embodies the principles of “communion, participation, and mission” – three core themes identified by Pope Francis during the launch of the synodal process in October 2021.

During his sermon at the International Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage in Antipolo on

XTREME weather events like heat waves, droughts and floods are getting worse in all the continents.

They are exceeding plants’ and animals’ tolerance thresholds, driving mass mortalities in species like trees and corals.

Climatologists say these weather extremes are occurring simultaneously, causing streaming impacts that are increasingly difficult to manage.

They add these extremes have exposed millions of people to acute food and water insecurity, especially in Africa, Asia, Central and South America, on Small Islands and in the Arctic.

Which points to urgent action as a requirement to deal with increasing risks.

Climate change authorities have suggested ambitious and accelerated action must be done to avoid mounting loss of life, biodiversity and infrastructure.

Such action is required to adapt to climate change, at the same time as making rapid, deep cuts in greenhouse gas emissions.

Experts admit that progress on

In 2009, the Philippine Congress passed the Climate Change Act creating the CCC or Climate Change Commission to develop policies and coordinate government programs on climate change

adaptation is uneven and there are increasing gaps between action taken and what is needed to deal with the increasing risks, with gaps largest among lower-income populations. At home, the Philippines submitted its NDC to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in April 2021, pledging a projected reduction and avoidance of greenhouse gas emissions of 75 percent for the period 2020–2030, of which 2.71 percent is unconditional

and 72.29 percent is conditional.

Swift, decisive action needed E

Simply put, an NDC is the Nationally Determined Contribution, a climate action plan to cut emissions and adapt to climate impacts.

Each Party to the Paris Agreement is required to establish an NDC and update it every five years.

In 2009, the Philippine Congress passed the Climate Change Act creating the CCC or Climate Change Commission to develop policies and coordinate government programs on climate change.

The CCC in turn developed the National Climate Change Action Plan that serves as a road map for all climate change programs in the Philippines.

In Paris in 2015, world leaders from 197 countries pledged to put people first and reduce their countries’ greenhouse gas emissions.

The Paris agreement aims to limit global warming to well below 2ºC and ideally to 1.5°C.

If governments act swiftly on the promises they made in the Paris climate agreement, and implement the solutions now, there’s still hope of avoiding the worst consequences of climate change.

Manila City Council badly lacks English proficiency

THE City Council of Manila headed by its Vice Mayor, actor Yul Servo, badly lacks proficiency in English.

From the way the council has been drafting its recent ordinances, the councilors need to take up a refresher course in English grammar and composition.

Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna and city council secretary Luch Gempis Jr. are similarly situated because their signatures are affixed on the ordinances.

Take for instance Manila City Ordinance 8973, approved by the City Council on July 25, 2023 and published in a newspaper on August 25, 2023. The principal authors of Ordinance 8973 are Councilors Jaybee Hizon, Jesus Fajardo Jr., Rodolfo Lacsamana, Niño de la Cruz, Luis Uy and Pamela Pascual. It bears the signatures of Mayor Lacuna, Vice Mayor Servo and Gempis. Quoted in verbatim, Section 4 of Ordinance 8973 reads:

“Vehicles impounded six months after from the date it was impounded are considered Abandoned or Unclaimed, shall be and already in the legal possession of the City of Manila, or in particular, the Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau.

“The head of the Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau is hereby authorized to recommend to the City Mayor the disposal of a vehicle that was taken into possession.

“Such disposition shall be at public auction under such procedure as the City Mayor shall establish with the approval of the Sangguniang Panlungsod.

“Written notice and publications of such auction shall be sent to the last known registered owner or person indicated in the papers of the vehicle, and person indicated in the violation ticket, if available, by private courier and registered mail three months after impoundment, five months after impoundment and at least 30 days prior to the date of auction, and said auction shall be held not earlier than six months after the date upon such vehicle shall have been

impounded.

“Any person entitled to such vehicle may reclaim the same at any time prior to such auction upon payment of all cost and expenses relating to the impoundment and storage of such vehicle, as determined by said officers or his authorized subordinates.”

The first sentence of the ordinance is sloppily written. It simply does not make sense. In the fourth sentence, the phrase “after the date upon such vehicle shall have been impounded” is also sloppily written. Its syntax is terrible.

The foregoing errors are in city ordinances which have the force and effect of legislation

The last sentence is just as badly written. It refers to “said officers” or “his authorized subordinates.” The first noun is plural (officers) but the reference thereto is in singular form (his).

Moreover, the use of the plural noun “officers” is incorrect because only one city officer is tasked with the auction -- the head of the Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau.

Likewise, the word “cost” should be “costs.”

Another example is an unnumbered city ordinance which modified an earlier ordinance about city tourism.

The ordinance was enacted by the Manila City Council on August 1, 2023 and published in a newspaper on September 7, 2023.

Its principal author is Councilor Leilani Marie Lacuna, and a host of other councilors including Benny Abante III, Irma Juson, Arlene Atienza, Carlos Castañeda, Louisito Chua, Roberto Espiritu II, Martin Isidro Jr., Macario Lacson, Salvador Lacuna, Moises Lim, Numero Lim, Erick Nieva, Charry Ortega, Elmer Par, Louisa Tan, Science Reyes, Luciano Veloso,

The Synod and the Philippine church

May 31, Bishop David urged the congregation to offer prayers for the bishops gathering as a synod, hoping it would usher in “a fresh Pentecost for the Universal Church.”

Bishop David, who also serves as the bishop of the Kalookan diocese, stressed that communion implies uniting one’s heart and mind in a single spirit, while participation and mission necessitate active engagement in the Church’s endeavors, particularly in the dissemination of the Gospel message.

The Philippines is represented at the “Synod on Synodality” by three prelates: Bishop David, Cardinal Jose Advincula of Manila, and Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara of Pasig, who also holds the position of CBCP vice president. Additionally, Estela Padilla, a lay Filipino theologian, is participating as one of the 70 non-bishop members appointed by the Pope, with voting rights.

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, formerly the Archbishop of Manila and currently the pro-prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization, will also partake in the synod as a member of the Roman Curia.

The synod, which has been ongoing since 2021, serves as an advisory body to the Pope.

Consultations have occurred at various levels, including parish, diocesan, national, and continental, culminating in general assemblies in Rome in October 2023 and October 2024.

It is anticipated that a final document will be produced after the 2024 meeting, potentially serving as the foundation for an apostolic exhortation, which, in turn, would become part of papal teaching or the magisterium.

The Synod on Synodality represents a profound journey of discernment firmly grounded in the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Synodality defines the unique approach that

characterizes the Church’s essence and purpose.

It encapsulates her identity as the People of God, journeying together and coming together in assemblies, summoned by the Lord Jesus through the empowering direction of the Holy Spirit, all with the mission of proclaiming the Gospel.

The Holy Spirit serves as both the director and guide of the Church’s mission and the synodal undertaking.

It is clear the Holy Spirit is actively at work, serving as the wellspring of inspiration not just for Pope Francis in his call for a synod of bishops on synodality, but also for all individuals of faith who are actively engaged in the synodal sessions, participating in the process of listening, learning, and prayer.

The Philippines, along with East Timor, stands as one of the two Asian countries with a significant portion of its population adhering to the Catholic faith.

It boasts the world’s third-largest Catholic population, following only Brazil and Mexico.

As such, the Catholic Church in the Philippines wields substantial influence in the country, boasting a membership of more than 92.65 million individuals as of 2021.

It manages a plethora of educational institutions

Joel Villanueva, Raymundo Yupangco, Timothy Zarcal, Ernesto Isip Jr. and Johanna Rodriguez.

The principal authors of Ordinance 8973 are also listed as principal authors of the unnumbered ordinance.

This ordinance bears the signatures of Mayor Lacuna, Councilor Rodriguez as Acting Vice Mayor, and Gempis.

Quoted in verbatim, Section 3 of the unnumbered ordinance reads:

“The Barangay Tourism Committee shall have the following functions and responsibilities: xxx 3.b Will Act as information gather machinery in barangay level.”

Like Section 4 of Ordinance 8973, Section 3 above is also carelessly written.

The phrase “Will Act as information gather machinery in barangay level” is unclear and underscores the city council’s poor English proficiency. Even the first letter of the word “Act” should not be capitalized.

As the city council secretary, Gempis should have made the badly needed corrections in the ordinances -- that is, unless Gempis needs to join the city council in remedial English classes as well.

Perhaps if Vice Mayor Servo spent less time as a film actor and more effort as the presiding officer of the city council, these errors could have been corrected. That is probably wishful thinking because Servo signed Ordinance 8973.

The foregoing errors are in city ordinances which have the force and effect of legislation. Thus, they should be written in clear English so that they will not be misunderstood by anyone covered by them. The people, through the press, have the inherent right to criticize sloppily written and, thereby, misleading ordinances.

across the nation, including prestigious universities like Ateneo de Manila University and the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas. Additionally, the church exerts noteworthy political clout within the country.

The Catholic Church in the Philippines, much like the Catholic church worldwide, faces several challenges, including declining church attendance, clergy shortages, addressing moral and ethical issues, dealing with scandals, managing interfaith relations, maintaining socio-political relevance, coping with economic constraints, facing competition from other religions, adapting to cultural and regional diversity, and advocating for social justice.

Through our Baptism, we are all summoned to actively engage in the Church’s life. Synodality, in this regard, empowers the entire People of God to move forward, progress collectively, attentively heeding the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, within the communion established by Christ among us.

Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the ongoing synodal process must therefore be a source of hope, inspiration, and unity amidst the myriad challenges encountered by the universal church as established by Jesus Christ.

Website: tonylavina.com. Facebook: tonylavs Twitter: tonylavs

life

Xi says US-China relations impact ‘destiny of mankind’

BEIJING—Xi Jinping said Monday that China-US ties would impact the “destiny of mankind”, as the Chinese leader met with a delegation of American senators in Beijing, according to an agency video pool.

“How China and the United States get along with each other in the face of a world of change and turmoil will determine the future and destiny of mankind,” Xi said as he met with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and his delegation.

China-US ties are “the most important bilateral relationship in the world”, he added.

“I have said many times, including to several presidents, that we have 1,000 reasons to improve China-US relations, but not one reason to ruin them,” Xi said.

“China and the United States must demonstrate the broadmindedness, vision and responsibility of major countries, enhancing the well-being of the two peoples and promoting progress of human society,” Xi said. Relations between China and the United States have had “many ups and downs”, Xi said.

“But the general direction has been forward,” he said.

“The world is developing and times are changing, but the historical logic of peaceful coexistence between China and the United States has not changed,” he added.

Earlier on, China’s top diplomat said he hoped Washington and Beijing could manage their differences “more rationally” as he met with visiting senior American lawmakers.

Schumer is the latest high-level American official to go to China as Washington seeks to ease tensions with Beijing, leading a six-person team reportedly seeking a meeting with leader Xi. AFP

KASHKAK, Afghanistan—Afghan villagers and volunteers on Monday helped dig for survivors of a series of earthquakes that killed more than 2,000 people, as aid began trickling into the devastated region.

Volunteers in trucks packed with food, tents and blankets flocked to hard-to-reach areas 30 kilometers northwest of Herat city, capital of the same-named province, hit by a magnitude 6.3 quake Saturday and eight powerful aftershocks.

They also brought shovels to help dig through the rubble of flattened villages as hope dwindled that anyone may still be buried alive.

“Many people have come from far-

flung districts to get people out from the rubble,” said Khalid, 32, at Kashkak in Zenda Jan district.

“Everyone is busy searching for bodies everywhere, we don’t know if there are others as well under the debris.”

Local and national officials gave conflicting counts of the number of dead and injured, but the country’s disaster agency said Sunday that 2,053 people had died.

The World Health Organization

said more than 11,000 people had been affected from 1,655 families.

As winter draws in, providing shelter for them will be a major challenge for Afghanistan’s Taliban government, which seized power in August 2021 and has fractious relations with international aid organizations.

Taliban authorities have banned women from working for UN and non-governmental organizations in the country, making assessments of family needs in deeply conservative parts of the country difficult.

Save the Children called the quake “a crisis on top of a crisis”.

“The scale of the damage is horrific. The numbers affected by this tragedy are truly disturbing,” said the group’s country director Arshad Malik.

In Sarboland village, an AFP report-

MANAGING DIFFERENCES.

er saw gutted homes, with personal belongings flapping in the wind as women and children camped out in the open.

Most rural homes in Afghanistan are made of mud built around wooden support poles, with little in the way of modern steel reinforcement.

Multi-generational extended families generally live under the same roof, meaning disasters such as Saturday’s quake can devastate local communities.

Afghanistan is already suffering a dire humanitarian crisis, with the widespread withdrawal of foreign aid following the Taliban’s return to power.

Herat province—home to around 1.9 million people on the border with Iran—has also been hit by a years-long drought that has crippled many hardscrabble farm communities. AFP

Turkish strike on Kurds in Syria kills 20

QAMISHLI, Syria—A Turkish air strike on Monday killed 20 Kurdish security personnel and wounded dozens at a training centre for police in Kurdish-held northeast Syria, a war monitor said.

Turkey has been bombing sites in the area since Thursday, hitting civilian and military targets and infrastructure and causing casualties, according to Kurdish authorities.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based monitor, said that 20 people had been killed and around 50 wounded after a Turkish war plane targeted a training center belonging to Kurdish internal security forces, known as the Asayish, on the outskirts of Al-Malikiyah.

The Kurdish force acknowledged the strike, saying that “a number of our forces were killed and others wounded.”

the Honorable Court may require.

Finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, this petition is given due course. Let this case be set for the plaintiff to establish jurisdictional facts and present its evidence on November 9, 2023 at 8:30 in the morning at which date and time, all interested persons are required to appear and show cause why the petition should not be granted.

Rule 78 of the Rules of Court 1 . The petitioner is likewise willing to put up a bond which the Honorable Court may require. Finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, this petition is given due course. Let this case be set for the plaintiff to establish jurisdictional facts and present its evidence on November 9, 2023 at 8:30 in the morning at which date and time, all interested persons are required to appear and show cause why the petition should not be granted.

DUST AND DESPAIR. Afghans dig graves for the victims’ bodies from the earthquakes in Sarbuland village, Zendeh Jan district of Herat province on Sunday. The death toll from a series of earthquakes in western Afghanistan rose sharply again to more than 2,000, with nearly 10,000 injured, as rescue workers dug through razed villages for vanishing signs of life. More than 1,300 homes were toppled when magnitude 6.3 quake—followed by eight strong aftershocks—jolted hard-to-reach areas 30 kilometers northwest of the provincial capital of Herat, according to officials.  AFP

Ukraine, EU ties in doubt as Poland braces for election

AFP correspondents said that authorities in the area have called for blood donations, while witnesses said that hospitals were full of casualties.

Let this Order be published at the expense of the petitioner in a newspaper of general circulation, to be chosen ‘by raffle, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks and let the same Order be likewise sent to the known heirs of the petitioner and other persons who may have an interest in the estate. In case the hearing would not push through, let the case be set on December 7, 2023 and January 25, 2024 both at 8:30 in the morning.

Let this Order be published at the expense of the petitioner in a newspaper of general circulation, to be chosen ‘by raffle, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks and let the same Order be likewise sent to the known heirs of the petitioner and other persons who may have an interest in the estate.

In case the hearing would not push through, let the case be set on December 7, 2023 and January 25, 2024 both at 8:30 in the morning. SO ORDERED.

WARSAW, Poland—Poland holds elections this week that experts say are set to be won by the governing populists, putting the country on a collision course with Ukraine and the European Union.

The latest polls show the Law and Justice (PiS) party at 32 to 34 percent, a few points ahead of the Civic Co-

alition (KO) led by former EU chief Donald Tusk.

But the ultimate result is likely to hinge on which of the two can build a governing coalition.

The election “is extremely close fought and evenly balanced”, Aleks Szczerbiak, a politics professor at the University of Sussex, wrote in a blog. Dorota Dakowska, a politics professor at Sciences Po Aix in

southern France, said it was “the most important election” since the first vote of the post-communist period in 1989.

“What is at play is the future of democracy in Poland and the future of Poland as a democracy and a country of rule of law,” she said.

While Law and Justice is set to get the most votes in the parliamentary elections for the third time in a row, it appears set to fall short of a majority.

The most obvious partner is the far-right Confederation party, which wants Poland to stop aid to Ukraine and has criticized the rights of Ukrainian refugees. AFP

AIR STRIKE.

Relatives react during the funeral of members of the Kurdish Asayish security forces, killed a day earlier in a Turkish drone strike, in the town of Amuda, in the northeastern Syrian Hasakah governorate. Turkey resumed strikes against Kurdish-held northeast Syria, October 6, targeting energy infrastructure as the death toll climbed to 15 over two days, officials in the Kurds’ semi-autonomous administration said.  AFP

Amid the chaos of Syria’s longrunning civil conflict, Syria’s Kurds have carved out a semi-autonomous area in the country’s northeast.

Turkey’s defence ministry said on Friday that it had launched the new wave of air strikes in retaliation for an attack in Ankara earlier this month that wounded two security personnel.

A branch of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK)—listed as a terror group by Ankara and its Western allies—claimed responsibility for the first bombing to hit the Turkish capital since 2016. AFP

US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (center) and US Senate Mike Crapo (left) meet with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the Diaoyutai Guest House in Beijing on Monday.  AFP

Local stocks, peso slide on fears of prolonged Middle East conflict

By Jenniffer B. Austria

LOCAL stocks and the peso slipped Monday on fears of a prolonged Israel-Palestine conflict.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index lost 7.79 points, or 0.12 percent, to close a 6,252.16, while the broader all-shares inched up by 0.78 points, or 0.02 percent, to 3,380.05.

“The index slipped and value turnover fell as investors reacted to the armed conflict between Israel and Hamas that threatens to destabilize the Middle East,” China Bank

PH, Australia study 40-MW nuclear reactor using thorium

Corp. managing director Juan Paolo Colet said.

Colet said investors opted to stay on the sidelines as they adopted a wait-and-see stance while the situation unfolds.

The peso also fell to 56.95 against the US dollar Monday from 56.62 Friday.

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp. said the new geopolitical risk emerging in the Middle East would weigh on Asian currencies this week.

“If oil prices surge, PHP [Philippine peso], THB [Thai baht], and INR [Indonesian rupiah] would fall as the countries are oil importers, but the authorities already indicated that they would intervene in the FX [foreign exchange] market if needed. JPY [Japanese yen] is also in focus as Japan is also an oil importer, and USD/JPY may test the 150 mark again this week,”

the Japanese bank said. Oil prices rallied while the dollar and yen advanced Monday after Hamas launched a shock attack on Israel at the weekend, sparking fresh concerns about tensions in the Middle East. The crisis fanned concerns about supplies of crude from the region at a time when supply worries are already high owing to Saudi Arabia and Russia’s output cuts.

It has also renewed fears about the impact on inflation, with energy costs a key driver of spiking prices, giving a fresh headache to central banks as they try to ease up on interest rate hikes to avoid recessions.

The surprise attack and Israel’s declaration of war in response to it have left more than 1,000 dead and raised concerns that a potential broadening of the conflict could draw in the United States and Iran. With AFP

CIC, JS Global teaming up to bring new brands to PH

CONCEPCION Industrial Corp.

(CIC), the country’s leading air-conditioning and refrigeration appliance maker, said Monday it teamed up with JS Global APAC Pte. Ltd, to bring innovative home appliances to the Philippines.

JS Global APAC holds the exclusive legal rights to the trademarks for the brand names “Shark” and “Ninja” in connection with the licensed products in Asia Pacific region.

Shark and Ninja are globallyrecognized brands known for innovative and high-quality home appliance products.

“We are delighted to partner with JS Global APAC to bring their innovative products to the Philippines. Our commitment to improving the lives of Filipino consumers is perfectly aligned with JS Global APAC’s mission to redefine home appliances that offer real solutions for real life,” CIC chairman and chief executive Raul Joseph Concepcion said.

CIC said the partnership marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge and high-quality products to the Philippine market.

CIC said the introduction of Shark and Ninja products to the Philippine market is expected to revolutionize the way consumers approach home maintenance and cooking.

The upcoming product range covers three key areas of daily life –hair styling, kitchen tasks and home cleaning.

“With innovative technology and user-friendly design, these products promise to elevate life experiences at home,” CIC said.

CIC started as a supplier of air conditioners, air conditioning solutions and refrigerators but it is exploring a potential expansion into other consumer appliance products and building solutions.

CIC sells a range of solutions and after-market service across multiple international and Philippine brands including Carrier, Toshiba, Condura, Kelvinator, Midea and Otis.

These solutions are designed to serve an array of customers and structure types, from individuals and single families to large residential towers and office buildings, entertainment facilities and commercial and industrial warehouses and factories. Jenniffer B. Austria

Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) teams up with United District Energy International L.L.C. and Marubeni Corp. to explore low-carbon district cooling technologies that would halve energy consumption and power costs inside the New Clark City. BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang (center) is shown signing the memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Udei and Marubeni officials during a business mission in Tokyo in September 2023 for a feasibility study on the viability of a district cooling technology for the country’s first green city.

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippines and Australia are exploring the possibility of puttingup a thorium-powered nuclear reactor plant as part of the sustainable energy diversification plans of the government.

Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual met with Australian firms Southern Infrastructure Pty Ltd. and Kaizen ANZ Pte. Ltd., who both expressed interest to enter into a public-private-partnership (PPP) agreement with the government to build and deliver the project in the Philippines.

Pascual is in Adelaide, Australia for another round of trade and investment roadshow.

The Philippines and the Australian companies discussed the potential of developing, building and operating an initial 40-megawatt (MW) thoriumfueled high temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) to deliver a safe, sustainable and green base load energy at the lowest rate in the market of about $0.03 per kilowatt-hour.

The project, once operational, can also produce by-products like green hydrogen for transport, desalinated water and gamma radiation that can be utilized for long term storage of food products.

Southern Infrastructure is looking at three years to construct and commission the nuclear reactor plant from 2024 to 2027.

The power project is expected to generate at least 1,000 local jobs during its construction and operation. Pascual also apprised Australian companies of the Philippines’ renewable energy investment potential.

NEA starts review of Primelectric-CENECO joint venture agreement

By Alena Mae S. Flores

STATE-RUN National Electrification Administration (NEA) said Monday it started the assessment of the joint venture agreement between Primelectric Holdings Inc. and Central Negros Electric Cooperative Inc. (CENECO).

The proposed joint venture under Negros Electric Power Corp. (NEPC) involves a P2.1-billion investment that aims to promote quality service to consumers.

NEA administrator Antonio Almeda said in a hearing the board would look into CENECO’s capitalization and viability.

He said the board would also address the concerns of those opposing the JVA.

“I hope we can address the concerns of the oppositors. We must also consider them. Regarding the participation of the member-consumer-owners, it has been concluded during the plebiscite, so we will put this into motion with all the required legal objectivity,” Almeda said.

Primelectric, a sister company of businessman Enrique Razon Jr.’s MORE Electric and Power Corp., and CENECO presented before the NEA early this month the joint venture plan to strengthen its service to consumers.

“This venture seeks to magnify the electric industry in Central Negros by not just streamlining the internal and external operations of concerned parties but also rehabilitating and mod-

DOTr building more bike lanes in QC

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Monday broke ground for the construction of bike lanes in parts of Elliptical Road and Commonwealth Ave. in Quezon City.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said this would ensure the safety of cyclists and other road users.

“We want to emphasize the safety of cyclists. We want to ensure cycling is a safe mode of daily travel, no longer just for leisure,” Bautista said during the groundbreaking ceremony.

“The use of non-motorized personal vehicles has been embraced by many who vouch for the health benefits of this mode of transport,” he said.

Bautista expressed gratitude to the Quezon City government for its support in an active transport program that also aims to provide environment and economic benefits.

“The increasing number of cyclists in Quezon City can significantly help redirect this city’s growth path towards preserving the environment. With clear support from the local government and civic organizations, we are confident this project will steer Quezon City away from the obnoxious sign of progress - road traffic,” said Bautista.

The expansion of active and public transport infrastructures in selected parts of Elliptical Road and Commonwealth Ave. in Quezon City includes the construction of two-kilometer bike lanes and 10 public utility vehicle (PUV) stops as well as sidewalk improvement.

Targeted to be completed by the first quarter of 2024, the active transport project will benefit almost 3 million Quezon City residents.

The agency started the construction of bike lanes in Lipa and Batangas City in Batangas and Antipolo, Cainta and San Mateo in Rizal last month.

ernizing the distribution system, which is deemed crucial in providing quality service to our consumers,” Primelectric and NEPC president Roel Castro said.

CENECO acting general manager Arnel Lapore said the JVA “strongly” supports the NEA’s goal to achieve efficient service for all consumers.

“I’m one with NEA in facilitating the service for the benefit of our consumers. That’s why I strongly support and cooperate through this JVA to ensure we deliver quality operations internally and externally,” Lapore said.

Castro said during the meeting the NEPC’s target P2.1 billion in capital expenditures would bring cutting-edge and top-of-the-line systems for a better

consumer experience.

“We need to rehabilitate the system because if you don’t put in the additional P2-billion investment or even bigger, you will be inheriting a distribution system that is just the same as now that is inefficient. That’s why we have to put in P2.1 billion to start rehabilitating and improving the system,” said Castro. He said the investment would also aid in reducing the system’s losses and improving reliability

“The P2.1 billion will result in reduced system losses and much better reliability but will not lead to any immediate increase in the Distribution System and Metering rates for the consumers once NEPC operates,” he said.

MORE’S OUTREACH.

Executives of MORE Power, Iloilo’s private electric distribution utility, join hands with the World Surgical Foundation Phils. (WSFP) Inc., a dedicated non-stock, non-profit charitable foundation with a mission to deliver topnotch surgical healthcare to underprivileged individuals and communities in the Philippines. The partnership aims to ensure implementation of surgical outreach activities, benefitting impoverished communities of high-quality medical and surgical care in Iloilo, as well as Bacolod City.

HANDWASHING DAY. Manila Water Company Inc. and Manila Water Foundation kick-off the celebration of the 2023 Global

COOLING TECHNOLOGY. The Bases

Business groups oppose increase in SEC charges, ask for ARTA review

By Othel V. Campos

ELEVEN business groups opposed the proposed increases in regulatory fees and charges by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), describing it as money-making schemes in the guise of regulatory enhancements.

The groups, including the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc., Employers Confederation of the Philippines, Management Association of the Philippines and Philippine Retailers Association, asked SEC chairperson and chief executive Emilio Aquino to submit the planned increases in regulatory fees to the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) for a regulatory impact assessment (RIA).

Other signatories in the letter to the SEC are the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc., Chamber of Thrift Banks,

Franchise Association of the Philippines, Philippine Association of Legitimate Service Contractors, Stratbase ADR Institute for Strategic and International Studies and the Philippine Food Processors and Exporters Organization Inc.

“Consistent with the ease of doing business law, we then strongly recommend that SEC submit this proposed policy to check against harmful impacts to business and the economy. We likewise raise the need for exhaustive stakeholder consultation prior to the RIA as part of the regulatory process and due diligence on the part of SEC,” the groups said in the letter dated Oct. 2, 2023.

The SEC proposed to charge corporate issuers 1⁄4 of 1 percent of the total indebtedness. The group said that based on 2022 numbers, the new SEC fees would amount to P1.27 billion on the total bond issuances of P508 billion for that year.

Foreign fund sells P2.69-b Shakey’s stake

By Jenniffer B. Austria

SINGAPORE’S sovereign wealth fund GIC sold its 16.8-percent stake in restaurant chain Shakey’s Pizza Asia Ventures Inc. for P2.69 billion.

Shakey’s said in a disclosure to the stock exchange GIC, through affiliate Arran Investment Pte. Ltd., sold 283 million shares in the food company at P9.50 apiece.

This represented a 3.26-percent premium over the stock’s closing price of P9.20 on Friday.

CHAMPION

PASSENGERS.

The Gilas Pilipinas team who won the gold medal in the 19th Asian Games basketball tournament in China pose with the Philippine Airlines PR 337 flight crew members on their way home from Shanghai.

Shakey’s shareholders Century Pacific Group Inc. (CPG), the holding company of the Po family and JE Holdings Inc. (JE) a privately-held investment company of the Gokongwei family, acquired the shares from GIC.

CPG purchased 185 million shares to

increase its holdings in Shakey’s to 62 percent, while JE Holdings took up 98 million shares to boost its share to 14.9 percent.

Shakey’s chairman Christoper Po expressed appreciation for GIC, which invested in Shakey’s prior to its initial public offering in 2016.

“As strategic investors, they have been big supporters and have added value to the company. Thus, in turn, I am pleased that the company was able to generate gains for them. I am also grateful for the opportunity to increase our investments in PIZZA [Shakey’s] as we

are firm believers and are excited by our future prospects. We are also grateful to the Gokongwei family for their belief in our company and the additional investment,” Po said.

JE Holdings chairman and president Lance Gokongwei expressed willingness to support Shakey’s expansion plans.

“Since being elected in 2021 as a board member of PIZZA, I have seen the company navigate through a pandemic and emerge from it a better, more diversified group. This gives me confidence in the group’s vision and capabil-

Moody’s Analytics expects BSP to keep interest rates steady in November

By Julito G. Rada

MOODY’S Analytics, a unit of Moody’s Corp., expects the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to keep the benchmark policy interest rate steady at 6.25 percent in its November meeting despite the elevated inflation.

“Monetary Board members will have the benefit of September-quarter GDP results and the October inflation print before having to make their decision. We expect them to leave the policy rate at 6.25 percent,” Moody’s Analytics said in a report Monday.

It said the BSP’s monetary policy meeting in November “will be one to watch.”

“It looks increasingly unlikely that headline inflation will reach BSP’s 2 percent to 4 percent target before the end of 2023,” it said.

The BSP hiked interest rates by 425 basis points since 2022 to rein in inflation before pausing in the last four meetings.

Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said over the weekend he remained confident that monetary authorities would consider the latest relevant information before deciding on whether or not to tweak the policy stance in the next meetings.

Diokno said in a briefing these data include the gross domestic product, inflation and labor market conditions.

“The decision on policy rate is always based on the latest information. The next policy meeting is on Nov. 16. The thirdquarter GDP will also be announced in November. Then, there will be another labor situation report,” Diokno said. He said decision making is better when aided by more frequent data.

“There is a slowdown globally… that is the consensus now. Then you look at the other countries… Who knows, maybe next time around inflation goes

down… Let us not decide on just one observation,” Diokno said.

National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan earlier expressed objection to a further hike in interest rates because it might significantly hurt economic growth.

Inflation peaked at 8.7 percent in January 2023 before easing in the next six months. Inflation in August picked up again to 5.3 percent and further to 6.1 percent in September 2023. This brought the average in the first nine months to 6.6 percent, above the BSP’s target range of 2 percent to 4 percent.

NTC renews license of NOW Telecom to operate as mobile service provider

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) renewed the permit of NOW Telecom Inc. to provide mobile telecom services, a top executive said.

The telecom unit of publicly-listed NOW Corp. said it “received a muchneeded boost from the NTC, which awarded it a radio license renewal to operate in the 800MHZ band, critical to implementing its mobile telecommunications system as authorized by the NTC. “

The company said it received the NTC license dated Sept. 29, 2023 on Oct. 2, 2023.

NOW Telecom is one of the four companies licensed to operate a mobile telecommunications system (MTS) after Smart

Communications Inc., Globe Telecom Inc. and DITO Telecommunity Corp.

“This license renewal with the most coveted 800 MHZ frequencies shall strengthen the communications security and connectivity to vital critical infrastructures in the country,” NOW Group chairman Mel Velarde said in a statement.

Bolstered by NOW Telecom’s initiatives with the Philippine military and the Cybersecurity Investigation and Coordination Center (CICC), the company eyes 16 critical infrastructures defined by these agencies and the US Department of Homeland Security that require immediate blanket coverage for a secure, reliable and robust communications systems using only trusted equipment.

ity to execute. We are pleased with the opportunities that lie ahead, strongly support PIZZA’s expansion in the years to come, and look forward to creating synergies with the Gokongwei Group,” Gokongwei said.

JE Holdings became a strategic investor of Shakey in 2021, via P1.25-billion capital infusion. Since its entry in Shakey’s, the food company expanded its portfolio with the acquisition of Potato Corner, the leading kiosk-based flavored fries chain in the country.

Shakey’s has nearly 2,000 stores and outlets globally across its brands.

AirAsia hiring more cabin crew for PH expansion

By Darwin G. Amojelar and Joel Zurbano

AIRASIA Philippines said Monday it is hiring more cabin crew to augment the projected growth in domestic and international travel in 2024.

The local unit of Malaysia’s AirAsia said it was in final round of recruitment for cabin crew, guest service assistant (GSA) and ramp agents.

It said the increase in manpower in the fourth quarter would be on top of the projected 600 new staff who would join AirAsia next year to support new aircraft and the reactivation of hubs and other AirAsia destinations affected by the pandemic.

“The horizon is very clear in terms of our growth direction. Our additional manpower will compensate for the expected increase in fleet size next year. Also, the sustained momentum in forward bookings continues to flourish, surpassing our 2019 figures,” AirAsia Philippines chief executive Ricky Isla said.

“Our guests can be assured of seamless travels during the ‘ber’ months with our group on-time performance hitting a high of 90 percent over the weekend,” he said.

AirAsia Philippines’ parent company Capital A recently reported it accepted a five-year term loan facility of up to $150 million for aircraft and engine maintenance costs and other capital requirements of the AirAsia Group.

“As a group, we are the largest ASEAN carrier in terms of fleet size. We also fly to 165 destinations in 25 countries worldwide. With the strong backing of our parent company Capital A, we are bullish that we will be on the right path to market domination in 2024,” Isla said.

ENERGY INVESTOR. Southern Infrastructure Pty. Ltd. managing director Paul Watson (left) and Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo Pascual discuss the Philippines’ potential in attracting renewable energy (RE) investments. Pascual cited the Philippines’ policies on foreign ownership for RE projects, which were relaxed to promote the sector.

MERALCO INSPECTION. A Manila Electric Company (Meralco) crew member conducts inspections and maintenance activities of distribution facilities to ensure stable and reliable electricity service for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections on Oct. 30, 2023. Meralco assured the public of its readiness for the elections, with its crews on standby to respond to any electricity service concern.

AirAsia Philippines chief executive Ricky Isla

POC: Pacquiao in Paris will boost Olympic boxing tilt

By Randy Caluag

IF he must go through the regular route, Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao cannot fulfill his dream of seeing action in the 2024 Paris Olympics in Paris.

But if there’s one dose that could help resuscitate the dwindling popularity of boxing in the Olympics, it could be in the form of an eightdivision professional world champion, the Filipino’s people champ they call Pacman.

“It’s his accolades (in professional boxing),” said Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino when asked what would make the International Olympics Committee (IOC) decide to allow boxing’s most popular and accomplished f igure in the last two decades direct route to the Olympics, without him going through the qualifying phases.

“Manny could be a shot in the arm for boxing. It’s going to be a blockbuster because Manny will fight in at least two eliminations, then quarters and s emis and hopefully finals,” said Tolentino on Monday during a dinner for several Filipino medalists in the recently c oncluded Hangzhou Asian Games.

The POC chief said they have already w ritten the IOC requesting for Pacquiao to be considered for an outright slot in the Olympics via the “universality ru le.”

“It has to go through a lot of processes until it reaches the IOC board. But we are hoping that they will consider it.

Hopefully by April, or earlier than that, we will have their answer (IOC).”

The IOC has allotted nine slots for the universality rule which means an athlete can have a direct route to the quadrennial games for reasons, varying from humanitarian to special concerns.

Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) Secretary General Marcus Manalo explained that at 44 years old and going 45, Pacquiao is no longer eligible to take part in boxing’s Olympic qualifying for boxing which is limited only to participants aged 19-40 years old. If he is considered for the universality rule, Pacquiao’s presence will not just “be good for Olympics boxing in general,” but will also boost the confidence of the entire Filipino boxing team, and perhaps the whole Philippine delegation to Paris.

“Baka pwedeng i-challenge ang age limit,” he said. “Kasi itong

44-year-old na ito eh much more conditioned sa mga 30-year-old na nagcocompete.”

“If it gets approved, that would be extremely beneficial for us. His presence will be a big boost to the team, not to mention his medal chances,” he said.

Pacquiao has earlier voiced out his desire to compete in the Olympics—a dream he wants to fulfill before closing a colorful boxing career that made him champions in various weight classes—something only he has accomplished.

Pacquiao who last competed at 66 kilograms as a pro could choose to fight at 63.50 weight divisions in Paris where boxing competitions are being managed by the IOC.

Eumir Marcial, a professional campaigner under Pacquiao’s MP Promotion, is the first Filipino boxer to qualify in Paris, with his silver medal finish in Hangzhou.

Altamirano’s Tech Centrale squad vying in PBA 3x3 2nd Conference

THE team of Yutien Andrada, Nico Salva, and Louie Vigil hopes to be as competitive as the squads joining the second conference of the PBA 3x3 Second Conference. Team coach, Anton Altamirano, is upbeat about their chances after forming a new team, known as the MCFASolver Tech Centrale.

“The team has been together for a month. And we have added two new players since then,” said Altamirano after introducing his players during a launch at the Dapo Restaurant in Quezon City.

Before Tech Centrale was formed, the squad played together as members of the Wilcon-Quezon City in Chooksto-Go Pilipinas 3x3 2023 Quest 3.0 in

JRU Bombers take on Stags

By Peter Atencio

THE Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers hope to continue their winning streak, with rookie Shawn Argente taking the lead, when they meet the San Sebastian Stags on Tuesday in the 99th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s basketball tournam ent at the FilOil-EcoOil Arena.

Argente has provided answers to every situation that the Heavy Bombers have faced in their past five games, and will most likely lead the way when they meet the Stags at 2 p.m.

Point guard Ry de la Rosa is still recovering from injury, and Argente provided a team-high 17 points, 15 of them from threepoint territory, when they prevailed over the University of Perpetual Help Altas.

“Alam naman natin na malaki ‘yung role ni Ry as a shooter sa flow ng offense

namin. Simula pa lang ng pre-season talagang ini-inculcate na kaagad namin sa isip ni Shawn Argente na siya ‘yung papalit dun. So he has really proven himself capable of doing that,” said Gonzales.

Later, the College of St. Benilde Blazers, who have 2-3 slate are set to fight the Altas at 4 p.m.

So far, Agem Miranda has also been doing well for the Heavy Bombers, as he made a season-hig h 31 points when they lost to the CSB Blazers, 85-93, in overtime last Sept. 29. Against the Altas, Miranda struggled with five points.

“For today, it’s a character game for us.

Especially yung composure ng players ko knowing medyo off night si Agem. Pero what happened, maganda nakita ko was instead na hanapin namin yung puntos ni agem, nagstick kami sa paglaro sa bawat isa,” said coach Louie Gonzalez.

Santa Rosa City, Laguna.

As the Wilcon team, they made it to the World Masters in Cebu City.

It’s going to be competitive, knowing who our opponents are,” added Altamirano.

The TNT Triple Giga is among the teams to beat, according to Altamirano, after they ruled the First Conference grand finals of Season 3.

Triple Giga came off with a 21-18 win over top-seed Cavitex Braves at Ayala Malls Market! Market! in Taguig City last August 13.

TH Tumalip, Ael Banal, and Brandon Ramirez have been added to the team, which will go up against strong teams like Cavitex, Meralco, and Ginebra. Peter Ate ncio

The victorious Filipino athletes, led by gold medalists EJ Obiena in pole vault and Annie Ramirez and Meggie Ochoa in jiu-jitsu, in the just concluded Hangzhou Asian Games, and POC officials led by President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino meet the press upon arrival in Manila on Monday night.

Malabon U belles shine in ROTC Games

THE City of Malabon University shocked the highly touted Technological University of the Philippines, winning in straight sets, 25-13, 25-11, 25-17 at the start of the volleyball event on Monday in the 2023 ROTC Games National Capital Region (NCR) Leg at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum inside the RMSC in Manila.

Jessa Pormocille and Marisol Barcelona dominated the scoring charts with well-calculated blocks, aces, and spikes to forge a rousing start in the Philippine Army competition.

“It’s a big win for us. I’m proud of my team that they were able to overcome the challenge from a much bigger university like TUP.

“I’m sure our school officials will be very much happy with the way we played,” said CMU sports director Jasper Perez. After taking the opening set, 25-13, Pormocille scored four consecutive aces and Barcelona added three blocks to take away the second set with a lot of ease. They needed only an hour and 15 minutes to claim victory in the event that carries the theme: “Tibay at Galing Pagyamanin, Suportahan Palarong ROTC Natin.”

“We have only two months of preparations so we are not expecting too much. But they have shown enough guts and determination in the game. I’m sure this will boost their confidence. Puwedi pala kami magiging surprise champion dito,” added Perez.

In the other volleyball matches of the Philippine Army, Quezon City University won over Olivarez College of Paranaque, 3-0, while Our Lady of Lourdes Technological College of Quezon City subdued Pamantasan ng Lungsod Maynila, 3-0. Makati Science Technological Institute of the Philippines won by default over Olivarez College, 3-0, and Polytechnic University of the Philippines likewise secured a 3-0 win over Blink Link Philippines in the Army competition.

Aside from athletics and volleyball, the kickboxing event also started its elimination round on Monday at the Dacudao court near the lawn tennis center, while the boxing elimination round was held at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. The three-day e-sports competition will begin Thursday via online.

Top officials of the inaugural staging of the event aimed at developing a sense of patriotism among students-cadets, said that after the NCR Leg, the last of the four qualifying legs that started in Iloilo City last August followed by Zamboanga City and Indang, Cavite recently. The national finals will immediately follow in Marikina City from October 22 to 26.

Agem Miranda goes for Jose Rizal University goes for a layup in this piece of action in the NCAA.

PBA deputy commissioner Eric Castro, PBA 3x3 tournament director Joey Guanio, MCFASolver Tech Centrale head coach Anton Altamirano, MCFASolver Tech Centrale co-team owners Ma. Cristina F. Antonio and Erickson A. Solver join members of the team during a launch on Monday).

Azkals

oto Bahrain for high-level matches

By Peter Atencio

HIGH level matches are expected to come for the Philippine Azkals national men’s football team in the coming weeks.

Coach Hans Michael Weiss, who left with the team for Bahrain on Monday, said he looks forward to testing the mettle of his boys.

“There are two games that we will play, make analysis of high level matches there,” said Weiss in a Zoom huddle with scribes on Sunday.

The Azkals are getting ready for a training camp, and an away friendly with Bahrain and an unofficials showdown with Uzbekistan.

The camp is being organized during this month’s FIFA international window, and in relation to the Azkals’ buildup for the coming World Cup Qualifiers (WCQ).

The 132nd-ranked Azkals will meet the No. 86 Bahrainis on Oct. 17 as part of the 10-day training camp.

Before that the Azkals, will have a matchup with Uzbekistan on Oct. 15, Sunday.

Weiss is preparing the Azkals for their campaign Manama for the second round of the WCQ, which begins Nov. 16.

“I need to get a clear picture on who is available and who might be an interesting player in the future,” added Weiss.

At total of 25 players were called up for the buildup in Bahrain, with veteran Patrick Reichelt, leading the way.

Reichelt is among the national team’s most experienced active player with 77 appearances, along with skipper Neil Etheridge with 75 caps. Peter Atencio

Verstappen claims 14th Grand Prix win in Qatar

NEWLY crowned three-time world champion Max Verstappen cruised to his 14th win of an outstanding season for Red Bull on Sunday when he won an exhausting, frantic, and often confusing Qatar Grand Prix.

The 26-year-old Dutchman, who secured his third straight title win in Saturday’s sprint race, came home 4.838 seconds clear of McLaren’s rookie Oscar Piastri, who won Saturday’s sprint and lapped his Red Bull team-mate, erstwhile title rival, Sergio Perez.

Lando Norris finished third in the second McLaren ahead of Mercedes’ George Russell, who survived a firstcorner crash with team-mate Lewis Hamilton, who retired in the gravel.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, the Italian team’s only runner after Carlos Sainz withdrew due to fuel issues before the start, finished fifth ahead of Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso and Esteban Ocon of Alpine.

Valtteri Bottas of Alfa Romeo was eighth, Perez came home ninth and Zhou Guanyu 10th in the second Alfa Romeo, but their positions were re-

versed due to the Mexican’s time penalties.

It was Verstappen’s 49th career victory and came complete with pole position and fastest lap, giving him a classic hat-trick to mark his triple title triumph.

“I think what made my race was my first stint,” said Verstappen. “After that, I could manage the pace and keep the tires in a good window, but the McLarens were quick and really pushed me.” Piastri, reflecting the feelings of all the drivers, said: “It was so hot. With three stops, it was flat-out every lap, so it was like 57 qualifying laps... I’m happy, but it was the hardest race of my life.”

Norris said: “Well, I’m sweaty, hot, tired and happy.”

Mercedez Chaos

After another sweltering day, the air temperature was 32 and track 37 when the race began in sensational fashion

Hans Michael Weiss

Record-breaking China brings curtain down on biggest Asiad

HOST China racked up a record 201 gold medals before the curtain came down on two weeks of tears and triumphs at the Asian Games in Hangzhou on Sunday.

The 19th and biggest Asiad concluded at the 80,000-capacity Olympic stadium with China handing over to Japan for 2026 at a celebratory closing ceremony.

Dancers holding lit-up props fanned out toward the audience in a performance evoking ocean waves while the words “love Asia” were projected on a big screen.

The Games are normally every four years, but Nagoya-Aichi has a shorter run-up because Hangzhou was postponed by a year due to China’s nowabandoned zero-COVID measures.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, a spectator surnamed Xia told AFP that the Games made her feel “very moved and proud”.

“The Chinese team did great,” she said.

Taiwan’s Gu Shiau-Shuang won the final gold earlier in the day when she successfully defended her title in women’s karate.

But it was the hosts who dominated over much of the fortnight, their 201 golds beating the 199 they collected at Guangzhou 2010.

Their exploits across the 40 sports at the Games reinforced China’s status as Asia’s sporting superpower, topping the medals table at every Asian Games since 1982.

The competition will be much stiffer in less than 10 months at the Paris Olympics. AFP

as the two Mercedes collided at Turn One in an accident that sent seven-time world champion Hamilton spinning out of the race.

Verstappen had made a perfect start and Hamilton, the only front-runner on soft tires, attempted to sweep around the outside of Russell but succeeded only in steering his rear-right tire into his compatriot’s front wing.

The impact sent both cars spinning.

Hamilton flew off, but Russell recovered to continue and make a pit stop as a safety car was deployed.

After muttered complaints, Russell apologized, but it appeared that he had nowhere to go in an incident which, for Mercedes, revived memories of the 2016 Spanish Grand Prix when Hamilton and team-mate Nico Rosberg collided and retired at the first corner.

The winner on that day, claiming his maiden victory, was a then-18year-old Verstappen.

After four laps, the safety car came in and the race restarted with Verstappen blasting clear of Piastri to open up a lead of 1.2 seconds with Alonso third.

This move followed Saturday’s re-

vision of the marked track limits and curbs that had damaged the walls of several cars’ tires on Friday and meant all the teams had to adopt a minimum three-stop strategy.

Perez, who started from the pit lane following car changes after his crash in Saturday’s sprint, also sliced through the field to reach third before, on lap 18, after Verstappen pitted, Williams’ Alex Albon took the lead and Perez fell, after a stop, to 16th.

Albon pitted within a lap and Verstappen was back in charge ahead of Piastri and Alonso, all on a three-stop strategy.

In addition to the frantic tactical challenge of the new tire rules, several drivers were shown a black and white warning flag for exceeding track limitsmeaning a repeat transgression would bring a five-second penalty.

For Perez, this duly came as Verstappen’s domination continued.

By lap 30, he was 22 seconds clear of Russell as he set a record for laps led in a season with his 740th in command, beating the 2013 record set by four-time champion Sebastian Vettel. AFP

Thai-bound Brodeth siblings sweep PPS Fiesta Cup

SIBLINGS Kimi and Kenzo Brodeth primed up for their upcoming Thailand campaign as they scored a pair of victories each in singles play in the Lapu-Lapu City Juniors Fiesta National Tennis Championships

Leg 2 in Cebu City last Sunday.

Kimi, 16, trampled fellow Ormoc City bet Ma. Niña Torrejos twice, posting a 6-1, 6-2 romp to reign in her age-group category then coming away with a 6-2, 6-1 win in the 18-and-under finals to complete her sweep of the two-leg swing following her victories over Kate Imalay and Sandra Bautista in Leg 1, also at the LapuLapu City Tennis Club last week.

“We still need to compete in other local and overseas tournaments to level up,” said Kimi, who is set to compete in the ITF (International Tennis Federation) J60 on Oct. 23-28 in Nonthaburi, Thailand.

The top-seeded Kenzo, on the other hand, routed Christian Laguna, 6-2, 6-2, to bag the boys’ 14-andU title then thwarted Juvels Velos, 6-1, 7-5, for the 16-and-U crown in the Group I event held under the PPS-PEPP program put up by Palawan Pawnshop president/CEO Bobby Castro.

“This is a good preparation for our tournament in Thailand,” said the younger Brodeth, who will compete in the ATF (Asian Tennis Federation) LTAT Asian 14-and-under tournament on Oct. 14-21, also in Nonthaburi.

The Brodeths have been training intensively in their continuing effort to sharpen their skills and reach the desired competitive level in pursuit of titles and ranking

points not just on the local front but also abroad.

Other winners in the event presented by Dunlop were Bogo City, Cebu’s Claudwin Tonacao. Maristella Torrecampo from Naga City, Bicol, Ma. Caroliean Fiel, also of Ormoc, and Torrejos.

Tonacao ripped Xian Calagos, 6-2, 6-0, to win the boys’ 12-and-U title for the second straight week while Torrecampo turned back Fiel, 6-4, 3-6, 10-4, to likewise make it two-in-row in the girls’ 12-and-U side. Fiel also made it back-to-back in 10-unisex with a 4-0, 4-0 romp over Van Gairanod, while Torrejos took the girls’ 14-and-U trophy with a 6-0, 6-0 rout of Torrecampo.

The unranked Chad Cuizon from the host city also grabbed the spotlight as he stunned top seed and doubles partner Gio Manito, 6-1, 7-5, in the semis then overpowered No. 2 Nicholas Ocat, 6-2, 6-1, to snare the boys’ premier 18-and-U title.

In doubles play, Cuizon and Manito rapped Jan Docor and Aaron Tabura, 8-4, and AJ Acabo and Imalay downed Faith Banico and Hannah Co via the same scoreline to share the 18-and-U honors. Al Gairanod and David Sepulveda beat Calagos and Andrio Estrella, 8-4, and Izabelle Camcam and Torrecampo repulsed Chrystell Laguna and Torrejos, 8-4, for the 14-and-U titles.

Tiger Woods hitting golf shots again after ankle surgery

TIGER Woods is back in action after undergoing ankle surgery and that has fans hopeful the 15-time major winner might return to competition soon.

A short video clip of Woods hitting a wedge at The Hay, a par-3 course at Pebble Beach that he helped redesign, was posted on Woods’s social media account late Saturday.

Woods got into the act while his TGR Junior Invitational was being played at the California resort, with the video being the first of Woods hitting any golf shot since he had a right ankle fusion after withdrawing from the Masters.

Woods, who turns 48 in December, also shared 45th at Riviera last February in his only other start this year.

Severe leg injuries from a 2021 car crash have limited the ability of Woods to play any sort of a full-time PGA Tour schedule.

While Woods has not revealed any plans for another comeback, his Hero World Challenge invitational is set for December in the Bahamas and he has made past returns there. Also in December is the PNC Championship, a parent-child event where Woods has played in the past alongside son Charlie. Woods, who has been seen serving as a caddy for Charlie, could use a cart in the event.

Others hope to see Woods in charge of the next US Ryder Cup squad.

Last Thursday, two-time US Ryder

Cup captain Davis Love said Woods was “the next logical choice” for the job.

“We’ve got to call Tiger Woods and ask him,” Love said. “I hate to put pressure on him, but it’s kind of his call.”

With some seen as likely captains in the past having left the PGA Tour for the Saudi-backed LIV Golf League, Woods could be a perfect choice to lead the US charge in 2025 at Bethpage Black after the Americans lost the Ryder Cup to Europe in Spain a week ago.

Woods was a playing captain on the 2019 US lineup that won the Presidents Cup in Australia.

Woods is among the players set to compete in the TGL, a simulator golf league he and Rory McIlroy formed that will start in January. AFP

Red Bull Racing’s Dutch driver Max Verstappen drives during the Qatari Formula One Grand Prix at Lusail International Circuit. (Inset) Verstappen celebrates on the podium. AFP

Kenzo (left) and Kimi Brodeth hold their trophies after a dominant showing in Leg 2 of the LapuLapu Fiesta Cup.

JK Labajo makes strong debut on Spotify’s global chart

By Angelica Villanueva

FILIPINO singer-songwriter JK Labajo’s latest track “ERE” has made a strong debut on the Spotify Global Chart, possibly following in the footsteps of his massive hit “Buwan.”

The single secured the 177th spot on the chart with 1.2 million streams, marking it as the highest-ranking new entry on the Top Songs Global list.

“ERE” is one of the nine tracks of his newly-released album, Sad Songs and Bulls**t, which according to the 22-year-old artist “was originally composed of 18 songs.”

“But then we’ve decided to divide them into two parts, so everyone has time to digest each track. Part 2 will come in early next year,” explained JK.

The album also contains the songs “may halaga pa ba ako sayo??”, “Manhid”, “Paruparo”, “Gabi”, “Time Machine”, “Lumisan”, and “Tapusin Na Natin To,” which features Ben&Ben’s Paolo Benjamin In an Instagram post, JK talked about the inspiration behind his album and described it as a compilation of all the love songs he made for someone he gave so much of himself.

“A collection of all the words I wrote and the melodies that came along with it. Eventually, things didn’t turn out the way I hoped for,” JK wrote.

“The songs started to not make any sense. all the songs for love turned into songs for sadness. For me at least, they just became a bunch of bulls**t. Hence, Sad Songs and Bulls**t,” he added.

On the other hand, “ERE” tackles about of loving and losing someone. It was released in September and has since become a popular song in the Philippines.

JK is currently having his “The Sad Tour” to promote his latest album.

Piolo Pascual’s most trusted partner

ACTOR and film producer

Piolo Pascual remains loyal to Beautéderm, a popular beauty and wellness brand headed by its CEO and President Rhea AnicocheTan. The 46-year-old A-list star signed a contract renewal with the brand recently and will continue to endorse its oral care products.

Anicoche-Tan had nothing but praises for Pascual, calling him a “nice human being” and a “very committed endorser.” She also mentioned that Pascual always smiles with confidence, which is something that the brand loves.

“I am thankful to Piolo Pascual and his management. As the official endorser of Beautéderm, his effectiveness in representing the brand has been undeniable,” the businesswoman continued.

New 'Exorcist' film possesses box office with spine-tingling success

effectiveness brand has been undeniable,” the businesswoman

“What I love about Piolo is he’s very committed as an endorser. He posts, promotes, and uses the products – and he does it sincerely. When we opened our largest Beautéderm store at the Clark Cityfront Mall in Angeles City, Piolo went there to support us. His effort was amazing.”

FIFTY years after the original, newly released The Exorcist: Believer topped the North American box office this weekend with an estimated $27.2 million in ticket sales, industry watcher Exhibitor Relations said Sunday.

and

The businesswoman also talked about Pascual’s support for Beautéderm, mentioning that he even went to the opening of the brand’s largest store in Angeles City. She said that the Beautéderm family loves Pascual very much.

Raising awareness about the importance of oral health, Anicoche-Tan encouraged consumers to get the right oral care products and make them smile every day.

She also mentioned that both Être Clair and Koreisu are safe oral care products with all-natural ingredients.

Pascual thanked the CEO for renewing his contract, saying that she defines what a true boss looks like. He also expressed his gratitude for the trust of the Beautéderm family.

“Ms. Rhea defines what a true boss looks like —aspiring, class, humble, and smart. I admire her.

I am forever grateful for her trust and for the trust of Beautéderm family,” Pascual said.

Beautéderm’s oral care products are available at Shopee, Lazada, TikTok, and Beautéderm stores/ resellers/distributors.

Like the original, Believer features possessed victims convulsing, covered in sores, and speaking in tongues. It also has a decidedly interfaith exorcism. Leslie Odom Jr. and Ann Dowd star, with an appearance by Ellen Burstyn from the 1973 original.

Believer was to have opened on Friday the 13th, but the studio moved up its release to avoid conflicting with the release that day of Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour , a concert film certain to generate big numbers, Variety reported.

Last weekend’s box office leader, Paramount’s family-friendly Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie , slipped slightly to second, at $11.8 million for the Friday-through-Sunday period.

In third, also down one spot, is Lionsgate’s horror flick Saw X at $8.2 million. This latest in the Saw series, again with Tobin Bell as the infamous Jigsaw, has received strongly positive reviews. The fourth spot, down from third, went to 20th Century sci-fi thriller The Creator , at $6.1 million. John David Washington, Gemma Chan, Ken Watanabe , and Allison Janney play humans in a world at war with artificial intelligence. Holding steady in fifth was Fathom Events’ faithbased movie The Blind , at $3.1 million. It portrays and

family,” the real-life struggles of swamp- dwelling reality TV star Phil Robertson with addiction romance. AFP

The unyielding love story of Julia Barretto and Gerald Anderson

IT CAN be said that the relationship between Gerald Anderson and Julia Barretto continues to thrive despite challenges.

“You know, in life, we face many ups and downs, whether on the professional or personal side,” admits Gerald. “What’s important, though, is that we understand it’s like a wheel. We’re not stuck on the downside forever. There will come a point when we’ll be on top.”

When asked about the secret formula for their successful relationship, Gerald responds, “I guess the key words are ‘never give up.’ Julia and I never give up on each other and all our endeavors in life, in general.”

Many are curious to know if they’re discussing marriage at this point.

“We can’t say for certain right now,” Gerald replies. “I suppose there are more pressing issues in the world than discussing marriage. But, of course, we’ll get there eventually,” he concludes.

Miss World 2013, Megan Young, reveals that she still has reservations about getting pregnant but is not completely closing the door on the possibility.

“I think the unknown is scary, right? It hasn’t happened to me yet, so there’s always that fear. Whatever happens—whether it’s there or not, I will accept it, and so will Mikael (Daez),” she says.

Speaking of Mikael, how can she describe their married life?

“Of course, our union is not perfect. Like any other normal couple, we also experience ups and downs. There are challenges.”

How do they face the tough moments?

“I think what makes us strong is that we talk about it. Even if it’s hard to discuss things, like domestic tussles or our problems as a couple or individuals. What’s needed is honesty, transparency, and loyalty, of course! I’m just happy to have ended up with someone who brings out the best in me.

Hopefully, I can bring out the best in him too.”

On the lighter side, as a former beauty queen, Megan admits that it’s not always easy to stay physically fit, so she has become more conscious of eating healthy food and doing workouts.

“I’m already in my ‘30s! I need to take good care of my health, like even if I tape a soap opera for long hours, I can still do my job well. I exercise regularly.

“I guess I’m healthier now because Mikael and I really take good care of our physical selves. Unlike when we were younger, our bodies are more delicate now. We have to take really good care of

OPM singer-songwriter JK Labajo

Lidya Jewett (left) and Olivia Marcum in a scene from ‘The Exorcist: Believer’

Beautéderm CEO and President Rhea

Anicoche-Tan (left) and actor and film producer Piolo Pascual

Julia Barretto (left) and Gerald Anderson during the 2023 Star Magic Ball

LIFE

Pinky Tobiano inspires at 30th National PR Congress

“NOTHING in life happens by accident.”

That is what chemist, philanthropist, and social media personality Pinky Tobiano reiterated at the 30th National Public Relations Congress of the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP), where she was the guest speaker. The Queen of Tablescaping shared fresh insights as she talked about “Digital Footprints to Frenzy: Mastering the Art of Online Impact in PR,” to bridge the gap between institutions and the communities they

serve. With Brian King Ong as moderator, the PR congress allowed Pinky to share her successful journey into social media.

From having only 200 followers pre-pandemic, her followers on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok rose to an admirable combined number of more than 5 million to date and still growing.

Pinky believes that “timing is everything.” During the pandemic, when Rustan’s saw her detailed tablescaping work (@tablelovebypinky), they got her

PR matters

as an influencer for the brand. In only two weeks, Pinky sold out Rustan’s sixmonth plate inventory at the height of the pandemic.

The abundant blessings from various brands enabled Pinky to give back to the less fortunate, with a special focus on abused individuals, children with disabilities and abandoned elderly. Her life journey and story are truly inspiring, marked by her courage in overcoming obstacles, including a battle with cancer.

Today, Pinky leads a purpose-

driven life, balancing her advocacy work with her profession as a chemist. She generously shared insights on growing one’s social media following and becoming a social media influencer: authenticity, passionsharing, content enhancement, niche finding, and giving back, notably through her Grateful Tuesdays

This year’s PR congress centers around the theme of time, akin to a humble gnomon, a component of a sundial that casts a shadow. The PRSP presents “Gnomon: Championing PR from Intention to Impact.”

JUST in time for Public Relations Month in September and Communications Month in October, the local chapter of the UK-based International Public Relations Association recently launched PR Matters, a communicator’s guide to the dynamic world of public relations.

BSP Deputy Governor Berna Romulo-Puyat was the guest of honor at the book launch held at Heritage XO at S Maison, which was attended by some of the country’s leading PR and communications practitioners, agencies, and friends from the media. They were welcomed by IPRA Philippines members led by local chair Noel Nieva, as well as Joy Buensalido and Millie Dizon, who spearheaded the book’s publication.

PR Matters is a compilation of articles written by IPRA Philippines members on an extensive range of communications-related subjects – PR basics, crisis management, media relations, corporate social responsibility ethics, trends, and the PR’s role in both the agency and corporate scheme of things. It also tackles the onset of innovations like the new media and AI, as well as challenges like the pandemic, which was recounted in the Coronavirus Chronicles series.

These were published as a roundtable column in a daily business publication, the first of which was Rene Nieva’s PR from a Global Perspective on May 20, 2013. The rest, as they say, is history.

Given the members’ diverse backgrounds, competencies, personalities, and experience, the book is part of the group’s advocacy to bring Public Relations principles, tools, and values to a new generation of practitioners.

During the event, guests were given a glimpse of the book as speakers shared excerpts from articles that touched them. Business Mirror editor-in-chief Chuchay Fernandez highlighted how AI may change things forever, and cited Richard Burgos’s efforts to include science in communications during his DOST stint.

ANC’s Ron Cruz spoke about the power of storytelling which Bong Osorio featured in his article. Mich Orosa-Ople, Managing Partner of Ripple8, touched on Ritzi Ronquillo’s take on leadership; while Mike Constantino, founder of Homonym, showed the audience how sonic branding can be a powerful tool.

IPRA, the International Public Relations Association, was established in the UK in 1955, and is the leading global network for PR professionals in their personal capacity. It aims to advance trusted communications and the ethical practice of public relations through networking, its code of conduct, and intellectual leadership of the profession.

Those interested in the PR Matters book may place their orders via Viber message @0920-9542980 or send an email to books@buensalido.com. ph.

By Angelica Villanueva

SHOPEE 10.10 Brands Festival is one of the biggest online sale events of the year. It is an opportunity for shoppers to find amazing deals on a wide range of products from top brands.

This year, Shopee 10.10 Brands Festival runs from today through October 12, allowing shoppers to enjoy discounts of up to 70 percent on selected items, free shipping on orders over a certain amount, and buy one, get one free deal.

Free shipping with P0 minimum spend

This 10.10, shoppers can enjoy free shipping on all their purchases with no minimum spending, making online shopping more affordable than ever.

Among the things that made online shoppers think twice before checking out what was on their carts was the shipping fee it comes with. Well, worry no more and experience more affordable online shopping. Watch out for free shipping coupons you can use on all your purchases with no minimum spending.

70% off Shopee Live all-day

It will be raining lots of discount coupons all day as shoppers can score vouchers of up to 70 percent off on Shopee Live. Plus, on every live, the online shopping platform will also be offering livestreamexclusive deals from brands such as Maybelline, P&G Beauty, PerySmith, and Locaupin

50% off on Fashion & Beauty

Fashion and beauty enthusiasts can also look forward to a much-awaited deal of 50 percent off on all things fashion and beauty. Shop from your favorite brands, such as Maybelline, Lovito Official Store, Y.O.U. Beauty, and rom&nd, and get first dibs on deals that will level up your wardrobe and beauty game.

Shopee Mall Outlet

GOLDEN Haven Memorial Parks

Inc. treated pet owners and their cherished animal companions to an incredibly delightful time on August 19, at an event aptly named “Nationwide Pawsome Day”.

Held simultaneously in all of its 30-plus properties across the country, the occasion turned Golden Haven’s beautiful parks into joyful scenes of frisky pups of all breeds and sizes romping around with other adorable furry creatures.

Indeed, if the sound of pet owners’ laughter—mixed with the excited yipping and barking of their beloved furbabies—were any indication, Golden Haven’s second annual Pawsome Day turned out to be a colossal success, and one worth turning into a cherished tradition.

More than just a gathering of families and their adorable pets, Golden Haven’s Pawsome Day was a celebration of the irreplaceable bond between humans and their beloved animal companions. This special kinship was best shown by the outpouring of love as they gamely

joined the pet walkathon and various other activities such as pet fashion shows where paw-fectly dressed pups showcased their modeling flair; pet pageants that displayed the unique characters of different pets; and fun photo contests that captured moments of pure joy.

Noteworthy was the initiative

taken by five of Golden Haven’s parks—General Santos, Manaoag, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, and Sariaya—that went over and beyond the scope of activities by partnering with city veterinary offices to provide free pet vaccinations. This attested to Golden Haven’s earnest desire to ensure the health and

well-being of their customers’ furry friends.

Golden Haven likewise invited a variety of pet-related businesses that further enriched attendees’ ties with their pawsome families and added an extra layer of delight to an already vibrant day.

As Emy Lustado, President of Golden Haven states, “Pawsome Day affirmed our efforts not only to help families preserve memories of their dearly departed but also to create more beautiful experiences with their living, breathing loved ones. It served to remind all of us that pets are more than just animals; they are cherished confidants, steadfast companions, and sources of boundless happiness.”

Lustado likewise says: “We want to underscore the special place pets occupy in the hearts of our customers –or the meaningful roles they might have had in the lives of departed family members. On its second year, we elevated Pawsome Day to a time for recognizing the wonderful companionship our furry friends bless us with.”

In support of brand growth, Shopee is also launching the Shopee Mall Outlet this 10.10 Brand Festival, where shoppers can have the most rewarding shopping experience and purchase more branded products with higher discounts, giving them unbeatable offerings from popular brands such as Beyond the Box, Samsung, Havaianas Philippines, PUMA, The North Face, Hydro Flask, and many more.

More exciting brand deals

Shoppers can also look forward to a wide assortment of jaw-dropping deals from their favorite brands this 10.10.

Techies can upgrade their setup with offers from brands like Oppo Official Store, Garmin, Tecno Mobile, realme, and vivo.

On the other hand, home & living enthusiasts can enjoy thrilling discounts from top brands such as Coleman Philippines, ASD Philippines, Hegen, and MAYFAIR LIVING.

Meanwhile, fashion and beauty lovers can awra on a budget with deals from P&G Beauty, Olay, Innisfree, Above Athletica, barenbliss Official Store, DAZZLE ME Official Shop, Havaianas Philippines, Organic Skin Japan, PUMA, Puritan’s Pride Philippines, Mikana, and Shigetsu.

With Shopee’s 10.10 Brands Festival, shoppers can enjoy the best deals and promotions on their favorite brands and products. Be sure to mark your calendars and start your shopping list now.

Tobiano

From left: Business Mirror Publisher T. Anthony C. Cabangon, Editor-in-Chief Chuchay Fernandez, and DG Berna Puyat

BSP DG Berna Romulo-Puyat with IPRA Philippines members present during the event