Manila Standard - 2023 October 25 - Wednesday

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PALACE: NO PLANS TO CALL HOLIDAY ON OCTOBER 31

HOUSE WORKERS BARRED FROM USE OF AI IMAGE APPS NEWS / A2

NEWS / A2 VOL. XXXVII • NO. 252• 2 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2023 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

5 dead in early poll violence

5 also hurt in Cotabato, Masbate as Comelec calls for tighter gun control

By Charles Dantes, Vito Barcelo, and Joel Zurbano

SC: Election body can’t take posters off private areas

IVE people were killed— including three candidates for barangay councilor – while five others were injured in separate shooting incidents in Cotabato City and Masbate City on Monday, prompting the Commission on Elections to call for stricter measures against loose firearms ahead of the Oct. 30 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).

F

“We should strengthen or intensify our operation against loose firearms more. Most importantly, the immediate arrest of those responsible for these crimes," Comelec chairperson George Erwin Garcia said.

“This is a warning that we will go after all threatening and planning to perform a crime against election opponents, including private armed groups,” he added.

In Cotabato City, Nur-Moqtadin Butucan and Alfar Singh Ayunan Pasawilan – both candidates for village councilor – and Pasawilan's supporter, Faizal Abas, were killed while installing campaign posters in Barangay Rosary Heights 12 on Monday night.

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By Rey Requejo and Darwin Amojelar THE Supreme Court en banc has ruled that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) is not allowed to remove campaign materials within private properties.

The High Court granted the petition for certiorari, prohibition, and mandamus filed by St. Anthony College of Roxas City, Inc. against the poll body after their tarpaulins, posters, murals, and other materials expressing support for former Vice President Leni Robredo were confiscated and destroyed.

“The Comelec's implementation of

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POLL VIOLENCE. A soldier from the 1st Marine Brigade armed stands guard in front of election campaign posters in Cotabato City on Tuesday, a day after violence involving two rival political clans erupted on Monday night, leaving three dead and two others wounded. Bangsamoro Autonomous Region Police Director Brig. Gen. Allan Cruz Nobleza and Cotabato City Police Director Col. Queruben Manalang (inset) then face the media as election-related violence breaks out ahead of the Oct. 30 village elections. Mark Navales

NSC vows more maritime patrols in West PH Sea Marcos shortens trigger period

By Vince Lopez, Charles Dantes, Rey E. Requejo and Macon Ramos-Araneta

Philippine Sea (WPS) after Chinese ships seeking to block a resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal collided with Filipino boats on Sunday.

The increase in patrols is also in response to the presence of "a of Chinese THE Philippines will conduct more large number maritime patrols and freedom of m a r i t i m e navigation missions in the West m i l i t i a

vessels" not only near Ayungin but also in Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal) and Sabina (Escoda) Shoal, said Jonathan Malaya, assistant director general of the National Security Council (NSC).

Meanwhile, the Armed Forces

for fuel subsidies to one month

By Alena Mae S. Flores and Charles Dantes PRESIDENT Marcos on Tuesday ordered the shortening of the trigger period for the release of fuel subsidies— from three consecutive months to only one month that the Dubai price per barrel exceeds US$80.

Mr. Marcos issued the directive during a review of the mitigating measures for

high fuel prices in a sectoral meeting at the Palace on Tuesday, Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said.

Lotilla said the President also ordered agencies to simplify the release requirements as it took time to release the funds for fuel subsidies in the past.

Department of Energy data showed Dubai crude was at $92.35 per barrel as on Monday. It has remained above $80 per barrel since August.

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Israel given free license to kill—Qatar ruler THE ruler of Qatar hit out at Israel's backers Tuesday, charging they had given it "free license to kill" in its war with Hamas and questioning what the conflict would achieve.

"We are saying enough is enough," Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad AlThani told a meeting of the Shura Council, Qatar's legislative body, according to a translation released by the royal court.

"It is untenable for Israel to be given an unconditional green light and free

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At least 120 Filipinos in Israel have asked the government for repatriation as the war between Israel and Hamas rages on, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said Tuesday.

DMW officer-in-charge Hans Leo Cacdac said the department is now processing the repatriation requests, most of which are from medical workers and hotel staff.

CHARGE VS. RODY. Alliance of Concerned Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro (center) holds up the grave threats complaint she filed against former President Rodrigo Duterte with the Quezon City Prosecutors Office on Tuesday.

Beside her are legal counsels Rico Domingo (left) and Tony La Viña (right). Manny Palmero

Solon files grave threat rap vs. Rody with QC prosecutor

By Maricel Cruz and Rio N. Araja A MILITANT lawmaker filed grave threat charges against former President Rodrigo Duterte after he allegedly threatened to kill her and called her a communist.

House Deputy Minority Leader and ACT Teacher party-list Rep.

France Castro filed the criminal complaint before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office.

“It was a serious threat to my life, especially at that time while I was mourning the death of my father. That was the time that he threatened my life,” Castro said.

She was at her father’s wake when she learned about Duterte’s remark

during an interview with local broadcaster SMNI on Oct. 10, which she said constituted the crime of "grave threats" under the Cybercrime Prevention Act. Duterte gave on-air advice to his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, about how she could use intelligence and confidential funds allocated to her Next page

GAWILAN GIFTS PH FIRST PARA GAMES GOLD NEWS / A2

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NEWS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

House bans AI image apps too The chamber's Secretary General Reginald Velasco issued the advisory after the House website was defaced by hackers last Oct. 15.

Velasco said the application poses privacy and security risks due to the possible creation of fake profiles, identity theft, and other malicious cyber activities.

“We encourage everyone to be very vigilant in acquiring applicationsor sharing information online,” Velasco added.

On Oct. 15, the House website had this message on its homepage: "YOU'VE BEEN HACKED. YOU'VE BEEN HACKED. HAVE A

NICE DAY.” It was accompanied by a caricature of a laughing man and the message "HAPPY APRIL FULLZ KAHIT OCTOBER PALANG! HACKED BY 3MUSKETEERZ 15-October-2023 || 11:31:24 AM." The National Bureau of Investigation also advised the public against using AIpowered photo generator apps, saying these could be used for identity theft and other scams.

“There have been reports of such cases already,” the NBI said.

The NBI said photos submitted to the app "can be used to craft

5 dead...

Maingaran in Masbate City.

Twelve suspects have already been arrested for the Cotabato shooting,while investigations are ongoing for the Masbate City and Placer incidents.

“These kinds of incidents are bothersome because our fellow Filipinos are not only hurt but also killed. Running for office must not be a cause to lose someone's life," Garcia said.

Despite the shootings, Garcia said this year's election-related violence remains the lowest in BSKE history.

As of Oct. 20, two areas are under

Comelec control, namely Negros Oriental and Libon, Albay, while 361 barangays are under the red category (grave concern), with most areas in the Bangsamoro AutonomousRegion in Muslim Mindanao.

Meanwhile, at least 250 BSKE candidates in Abra have withdrawn from the race.

According to provincial election supervisor Mae Richelle Belmes, most of those who quit are candidates in the SK polls who have relatives holding elective positions.

These candidates want to avoid disqualification in case they win in the BSKE, she said.

In Metro Manila, more than 8,000 policemen will be fielded to cover the voting centers in Metro Manila for the BSKE, the National Capital Region Police Office said.

NCRPO director Brig. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. assured that regular law enforcement operations will not be halted while enough policemen will be deployed to secure vital installations, streets, and other places of convergence.

“The best intentions cannot justify impermissible infringements on constitutional rights,” the court said.

Comelec chairman George Garcia said the poll body is not removing campaign materials within private properties.

"Private ownership and its free exercise is constitutionally guaranteed. It’s good to know that the Supreme Court is allowing Oplan Baklas as against candidates and political parties. This pronouncement strengthened our mandate," Garcia said.

As this developed, the Supreme Court on Tuesday also ruled there was no more legal impediment to the holding of the synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections on Monday, Oct. 30.

In an en banc resolution, the SC declared final its June decision which de-

clared as unconstitutional the law that postponed the Dec. 5, 2022 BSKE. It also affirmed with finality the legal practicality and necessity ofproceeding with the BSKE next week.

The resolution penned by Associate Justice Antonio Kho Jr. denied withfinality the motion for reconsideration filed by the Office of the Solicitor General.

“The sitting BSK officials shall continue to hold office until their successor shall have been elected and qualified. But the term of office of the sitting BSK officials shall be deemed to have ended on Dec. 31, 2022 consistent with the provisions of RA 11462,” the high tribunal added.

The SC also held that succeeding synchronized BSKE shall be held pursuant to the provisions of RA 11462, that is, "on the first Monday of December 2025 and

every three years thereafter."

Meanwhile, the Department of Information and Communications Technology on Tuesday assured the public that the 2016 incident of voters' data leak will not happen again during the BSKE amid the recent hacking of government agencies' systems.

Renato Paraiso, DICT spokesperson, said the department is set to sign a memorandum of agreement with Comelec for the publication of the precinct finder for the 2023 BSKE on the poll body's website.

"We are just awaiting the signature of the Secretary, but basically everything is in place. We would be providing technical assistance and support to the Comelec when it comes to the precinct finder," Paraiso said.

By Maricel V. Cruz

T

HE House of Representatives has warned its members and personnel to refrain from using artificial intelligence (AI) image generator applications due to possible security risks.

From A1

In Masbate, a farmer, Abraham Dolore was killed while Nehemias Sayam, a candidate for barangay chairman, and another resident, Jewel Sayam, were hurt in Barangay Tan-awan in Placer town.

Meanwhile, a candidate for barangay councilor, Juvy Pintor, was killedwhile incumbent barangay chairperson Joseph Martines was wounded in Barangay

SC:..

From A1

Oplan Baklas against St. Anthony et al. is unconstitutional as it exceeded the bounds of permissible regulation under Republic Act 9006 (Fair Election Act) and Comelec Resolution No. 10730,” the court said.

"The Comelec also violated the property rights of St. Anthony College, as there was no legal basis for the Comelec's entry into their private property and removal and destruction of their privatelyowned campaign materials."

Comelec is mandated to regulate election propaganda, but it is notallowed to regulate the political speech of private persons on private property, the Supreme Court said.

Marcos...

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The country's oil firms hiked pump prices yesterday by P0.95 per liter for gasoline, P1.30 per liter for diesel and P1.25 per liter for kerosene. The price adjustments resulted in a year-to-date net increase of P13.20 per liter for gasoline, P12.65 per liter for diesel, and P7.19 per liter for kerosene.

“The President gave instructions on changing the language of the 2024 budget provision on fuel subsidies for the transport sector in orderto shorten the trigger period from three months to one month and simplify the release requirements,” Lotilla said in a press briefing.

“It will shorten the period within which the subsidy can be released to our drivers. Because before, it would take three months, and thedifference is quite obvious in terms of being able to help the transport sector,” he added.

As for the fund release requirements, Lotilla said under the existingpolicy, the Department of Transportation must first consolidate all the lists of beneficiaries given by the Land Transportation Franchising Regulatory Board, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the Department of Trade and Industry.

“We are simplifying all these requirements so that the Department of Transportation will be responsible for the list for those which are under the LTFRB, then DILG will come up with the list for those which are with the tricycle drivers under the local governments and then, DTI will take care of the rest. And that will simplify the process,” Lotilla said.

“So, this time, as proposed by the Department of Budget and Management to Congress, the guidelines will need only to be agreed upon by the Department of Budget and Management, the Department of Transportation, and the Department of Energy. And these can be released upon the finalization of the list of beneficiaries,” he added.

The administration is seeking funding of P2.5 billion for fuel subsidies in 2024.

The President also approved a proposal to raise the ethanol blend for gasoline products to 20 percent from the current 10 percent by the end of the year, Lotilla said.

He said the implementation of a higher ethanol blend to gasoline is “voluntary” in an effort to further pull down gasoline prices.

“This is primarily a price mitigation measure because ethanol,especially imported ethanol, is cheaper than the price of gasoline.

fake profiles leading to incidents of identity theft, data breaching, sexual exploitation, phishing attacks, ransomware attacks, and other various malicious activities."

"While it may appear to be harmless and amusing, this AI-driven technology has the potential to be maliciously exploited," the NBI said.

Also on Tuesday, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa ordered the creation of a committee that would investigate the recent cyberattack on the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) website in September. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Gawilan gifts PH with first gold in Asian Para Games

By Randy Caluag HANGZHOU, China -- Taking part in his favorite event, swimmer Ernie Gawilan delivered the first gold medal for Team Philippines in the 4th Asian Para Games at the Hangzhou Olympic Center here.

The seasoned Paralympic swimmer from Davao City made sure the national anthem would be played for the first time on Tuesday at the Aquatics Arena as he topped the Men's 400m Freestyle S7 division with a time of four minutes and 58.29.

The Philippines now has a gold, a silver, and two bronze medals, including that from another swimmer Gary

Solon...

From A1

office and the education department, which she also heads.

"Your first target with your intelligence fund is you, you France.

Tell her, it is you communists who I want to kill," Duterte said in the interview that was shared thousands of times on Facebook. It was later deleted from SMNI's Facebook page.

The House appropriations committee decided on the same day to divert the funds allocated to some government departments, including the P650 million for the OVP and DepEd. In her complaint, Castro said Duterte's threats were "factually base-

NSC...

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of the Philippines said it was considering other modes of resupplying the Philippine Navy ship BRP Sierra Madre at the Ayungin Shoal after China’s repeated efforts to block resupply missions.

In a televised briefing, AFP spokesman Col. Medel Aguilar said othermodes of resupply could include sending faster ships and airdrops or helicopter drops, all using civilian craft, as they want to avoid using Navy or military assets in the resupply missions.

The AFP spokesman also said the Philippines would continue to conduct maritime patrols in the West Philippine Sea. “This is our way of showing to the world that we are asserting oursovereign rights and we will never give up the right of the people to enjoy the benefits from whatever resources we can get from our exclusive economic zone,” he said.

Bejino, going into the halfway mark of this multi-sports continental tournament for persons with disabilities.

Making sure not to repeat the same mistake he had the day earlier when he was relegated to the bronze medal in the men’s 200m IM medley, Gawilan timely answered the gun start to go headto-head with Singaporean rivals Soong Toh Wei and China’s Huang Xiangquan in the first three laps.

Gawilan surged ahead in the next lap at the 200-meter mark on the way to lording over the event that he ruled in the same dominating fashion in Jakarta in 2018 when set the Asian Para Games record with a 4.51.00 clocking.

Toh Wei finished a distant second

(5:12.16) while Huang (5:16.33) took the bronze medal as Gawilan coasted to the golden victory that gaveTeam Philippines a big reason to celebrate.

It was on a fruitful day that also saw wheelchair racer Jerrold Mangliwan snatch the silver medal from South Korea’s Jeong Jondae in the men’s 100-meter T52 finals of the 4th APG trackfest at the Huanglong Sports Stadium oval here Tuesday.

The 43-year-old Southeast Asian Games multi-gold medalist submitted a personal best of 18.65 seconds to place second behind eventual gold finisher, Japanese Ito Tatsumi, who set a new Asian Para Games record with 17.41 in the men's 100m T52.

less and clearly malicious," but she could not dismiss them as "figurative, joking, or otherwise benign."

Former executive secretary Salvador Medialdea said Duterte has not yet received a copy of the complaint.

Duterte’s former chief presidential legal counsel Salvador Panelo dismissed the complaint as having “no legal basis” and was only filed “for propaganda purposes.”

“It’s not a threat. Because a threat is: ‘I will kill you.’ But when you say ‘I want to kill you,’ that’s only expressing a desire,” Panelo said in an interview with ANC’s Dateline Philippines.

Castro's lawyer Antonio La Vina told reporters that it was the first criminal complaint filed against Duterte since he left office.

Duterte was protected from pros-

ecution when he was president, but now that he is an ordinary citizen, he can be charged for alleged crimes committed.

"I was really shocked with the threats," Castro said.

"He can no longer hide [behind presidential immunity from suit]. He must be accountable for threatening my life,” she added.

La Vina said the maximum penalty for "grave threats" was six years in jail and a fine of up to P100,000.

Duterte often threatened to kill people, including drug dealers and rights activists, when he was president from 2016 to 2022.He also frequently labeled critics as communist sympathizers – a practice known as "red-tagging," which can result in the arrest, detention, or even death of the person targeted.

With AFP

Manila has condemned China’s actions on Sunday as a “blatant violation of international law” and “a serious escalation of the illegal activities conducted by the Chinese government in the West Philippine Sea.” China, on the other hand, has accused the Philippines of intruding on what it views as its territory, in contravention of a UN tribunal’s decision that its claims over much of the South China Sea are without legal basis.

Malaya accused China of conducting a misinformation campaign in which "false narratives" are shared with the public.

"Some critics are saying this is just posturing on the part of the Philippines… This is a battle for the resources of our country, particularly those for our fishermen," Malaya said.

Malaya said the government is considering filing a case against China before the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) over the Oct. 22 collision.

“There are many options that are on

the table right now. We can file a case in the International Tribunal of the Law of the Sea,” Malaya said.

Maritime security expert Raymond Powell, SeaLight director of the Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation, said he expects maritime encounters between the Philippines and China to continue.

"A sort of transparency unfortunately will probably not result in China abruptly changing course," Powell said in an interview with ANC. "Although you've seen modifications to their behavior,” he added. “For example now they bring their own cameras and they tell their own story."

Powell said China’s interests and those of other claimant states “arejust too far apart” for any real progress to be made on a Code of Conduct for the South China Sea. "Ultimately China wants to use the code of conduct to reinforce its claim and of course, the other maritime countries want to avoid that. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Nearly all Pinoys want free tuition in state colleges

By Macon Ramos-Araneta A PULSE Asia survey commissioned

by Senator Win Gatchalian said 98 percent of Filipinos are in favor of free tuition in public universities.

The survey said this trend extends across all economic classes: 99% in Classes ABC, 97% in Class D, and 100% in Class E; as well as across geographic regions such as the National Capital Region (NCR) at 98%, Balance Luzon at 96%, Visayas at 99%, and Mindanao at 100%.

The survey was conducted from September 10 to 14 and involved 1,200 respondents.

The increase in the number of graduates is the top reason whyFilipinos support free tuition in public universities, which according to Gatchalian may highlight the respondents' belief that a college degree is the path towards a higher quality of life and better opportunities.

When asked why they support free college tuition, more than half (51%) of the survey's respondents said that it results in more graduates.

IN BRIEF Palace: No plans for Oct. 31 holiday MALACAÑANG has no plans to declare Oct. 31 as a holiday, Presidential Communications Office Secretary Cheloy Garafil said on Tuesday.

Garafil told Palace reporters that "as per [Office of the Executive Secretary],” there is still no plan yet on the said date.

Filipinos were hoping Oct. 31, which falls on a Tuesday, will be declared as such for a longer weekend.

The date is preceded by the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE) on Oct. 30, while Nov. 1 or All Saints' Day, and Nov. 2 or All Souls’ Day are special non-working days.

Last year, President Marcos issued a new proclamation revising the list of regular holidays and added a special non-working day – Jan. 2—for 2023. Charles Dantes

Japanese firms eye stronger local ties JAPANESE businesses expressed eagerness to strengthen partnerships with the Philippines citing the nation's stable economic growth under the present administration.

Ken Kobayashi, chair of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), said the country's stable and high economic growth in recent years has attracted Japanese investors to develop their operations in anticipation of an increased workforce population as well as domestic demand.

This is the first economic mission conducted by the JCCI since the pandemic.

Kobayashi hailed President Marcos' Socioeconomic 8-Point Agenda while citing different fields for cooperation between Japan and the Philippines.

“In the Socioeconomic 8-Point Agenda that you have announced, Mr. President, you prioritize social security and the development of human capital," he said during JCCI’s courtesy call in Malacañang.

Charles Dantes

Israel...

From A1

license to kill, nor is it tenable to continue ignoring the reality of occupation, siege, and settlement."

Meanwhile, at least 120 Filipinos in Israel have asked the government for repatriation as the war between Israel and Hamas rages on, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said Tuesday.

Major powers, including the United States, Britain, and France, have rallied to support Israel and affirmed its right to defend itself after this month's deadly attack by the Palestinian Islamist group.

Qatar, a US ally that hosts a large US military base, also hosts an office of Hamas which doubles as the main residence of its self-exiled leader Ismail Haniyeh.

The wealthy Gulf monarchy has acted as a communications channel with Hamas and is playing a key role in negotiations to release thehostages, with four freed so far.

"It should not be allowed in our time to use cutting off water and preventing medicine and food as weapons against an entire population," the emir said, referring to Israel's siege of Gaza.

"We call for an earnest regional and international stance vis-a-vis this dangerous escalation that we are witnessing, and which threatens the security of the region and the world." Vito Barcelo with AFP (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

NEWS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Gov’t signs UN pact to achieve sustainable dev’t T

HE Philippines on Tuesday signed a new cooperation framework with the United Nations for 2024 to 2028 signaling the country’s commitment to attain sustainable development.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. witnessed the signing of the 2024-2028 United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) in a ceremony at the President’s Hall of Malacañan Palace in Manila, coinciding with United Nations Day. The UNSDCF was signed by Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Director General Arsenio Balisacan and UN Resident Coordinator in the Philippines Gustavo González.

The UNSDCF is a collaborative strategic planning framework for cooperation between the Philippines and the UN Development System, in support of the national development priorities and the accomplishment of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Embodied in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and adopted by all UN member-states in 2015, the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) involve strategies aimed at improving health and education, reducing inequality, and spurring global economic growth while addressing climate change and preserving the environment.

Mr. Marcos said the UNSDCF is a document that deepens, expands and elevates the partnership between the Philippines and the UN. “As founding member of the United Nations, the Philippines strongly sup-

ports the UN as a beacon for multilateral approaches for making lasting peace and progress a reality for all peoples, for all nations,” he said in his keynote speech after the signing ceremony.

“Beyond building better from the pandemic and for resilient communities, the world needs a transformative agenda to bridge divides, address inequalities and foster growth that carries everyone forward. Especially in this complex global environment, we certainly need the United Nations to thrive in its important work, including at the country level here in the Philippines,” the President said.

Mr. Marcos noted that the cooperation framework is oriented to support Philippine government policies and priorities embodied in his administration’s eight-point socioeconomic agenda, the Philippine Development Plan and NEDA’s “AmBisyon Natin 2040.”

The NEDA program represents the collective long-term vision and aspirations of the Filipino people for themselves and for the country in the next 25 years; describes the kind of life that people want to live and how the country will be by 2040; and serves as anchor for development planning.

He added that the arrangement provides a “good model of co-ownership, transparency and accountability for UN country programs,” ensuring that these are driven by the needs and context of national development. Charles Dantes

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NLEX to deploy more personnel for ‘Undas,’BSKE

By Darwin G. Amojelar

‘NO’ TO FOSSIL FUEL. Climate campaigners conduct protest actions against

Aboitiz Power Corporation and JERA Co., Japan’s largest power generation company, at the Ninoy Aquino Monument along Ayala Avenue in Makati City on Tuesday. Norman Cruz

DOE-led panel starts drafting nuclear energy safety strategy

By Alena Mae S. Flores AN inter-agency committee led by the Department of Energy (DOE) has started drafting the country’s National Policy and Strategy for Safety on Nuclear Energy.

Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla, in his speech during the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) roundtable on Tuesday, said the national safety strategy shall apply the essential safety principles established by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

“The government is now laying the grounds that will satisfy the competency requirements based on the milestone approach of the International Atomic Energy Agency, including stable government policy support with favorable public perception,” Lotilla said.

He said the policy document being drafted is intended to foster transparency in all related activities of nuclear energy program, particularly on the protection of the people and the environment.

NLEX Corporation on Tuesday said it will implement additional traffic management measures in anticipation of the increased traffic volume this coming “Undas” and barangay and SK elections.

“With an expected 10 percent increase in traffic volume during this season, motorists are advised to plan their trips and to travel during non-peak periods to avoid the expected surge of travelers,” the operator of North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and Subic-Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) said.

The tollway company is deploying over 1,500 traffic, toll, and systems personnel for increased patrol visibility and toll plaza assistance from October 27 to November 6.

“For northbound, we are expecting the surge of travelers in the afternoon of October 27 until early afternoon of October 28 and in the morning of October 30 and November 1. While southbound, motorists are expected to come back to Manila in the afternoon of November 4 and 5 and early morning of November 6,” NLEX President, J. Luigi Bautista said.

“With the huge volume of vehicles, NLEX is on high alert to ensure that we address every motorist’s needs immediately,” he added.

Sigh of relief for Guadiz after retraction in alleged LTFRB corruption

By Rio N. Araja SUSPENDED Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) chief Teofilo Guadiz III on Tuesday said his name was cleared after a whistleblower in the supposed corruption within the agency admitted having no direct knowledge of his involvement.

“I have been protecting my name in the

past 23 years of my public service. I am thankful that I was finally cleared,” he said.

He reacted to the failure of Jefferson Tumbado to answer the questions of the members of the House Committee on Transportation “directly and correctly.”

Guadiz said he was surprised that his name was linked to the alleged corruption in the franchise approval in exchange for money.

Tumbado, a former LTFRB employee, earlier accused Guadiz of corruption during an Oct. 9 press conference organized by the transport group MANIBELA. He implicated Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista and some officials of the Office of the President.

Two days later, he recanted his statement and apologized to Guadiz and Bautista.

Sustainability tours kick off at SM City Baguio TO inspire the youth towards sustainable living, SM Supermalls entered into an academe partnership with top universities in Baguio City for a series of educational tours that highlight water conservation, energy efficiency and solid waste management. The instructive activity aims to build awareness among the youth to understand sustainability in creating positive environmental footprint and improving the well-being of our communities.

In collaboration with University of the Cordillera College of Engineering and Architecture and SM City Baguio, recently launched the Sustainability Features and Greening Effects Tour yesterday, October 06, as part of its commitment to the community and the environment. The short-guided tour around the mall showcase accessible eco-friendly facilities that SM City Baguio provides. This reaffirms the SM group’s commitment to empowering young students to dream big and to spread social good in their communities.

SM City Baguio Regional HR Manager said,” This is a pilot program for SM City Baguio, SM City Baguio and nag start nito. since we have mall sustainability features like the rainwater being converted into drinking water. Although in other SM malls, meron ng ganitong technology, yung rainwater catchment pero this time, it’s different in SM City Baguio, it is converted to drinking water.”

Thirty selected college students from University of the Cordilleras College of Engineering and Architecture participated the tour around the mall’s eco-friendly facilities such as the EV Charging Stations, Rainwater Treatment Facility, waste segregation bins, Plastic Waste Collection booths, water recycling initiatives and bicycle amenities.

The Sustainability Tour is one of the numerous programs of SM in helping to care for the environment and promote sustainable living among the youth. Some of the mallbased activities are the Trash to Cash Recycling Market held every first Friday and Saturday of the month; daily water recycling systems, and environmental campaigns such as the Green Film Festival, Green Retail Agenda, and the International Coastal Cleanup Drive, to name a few.

“Sa tour po namin ngayon, masaya po kami kasi mas nagkaroon kami ng knowledge na ia-apply namin sa aming course …” said Environmental and Sanitary Engineering (EnSE) student Christine Ann Abalos.

SM’s dedication aligns with the world’s environmental sustainability and climate action goals. SM Supermalls, through its initiatives, paves the way for a greener, more secure future. This passion continues to bridge innate student potential as well as providing a channel for the youth to play an active role in community and nationbuilding.

Ms. Irene J. Peralta giving her speech to UC-CEA students after the concluded Sustainability Tour kick-off

Students with Merlin Te, after a brief discussion about Rainwater Catchment Facility

Students with Merlin Te, after a brief discussion and Q&A about Rainwater Catchment Facility

Students Q & A with sir Merlin Te, owner of Pure03 technology used for the Rainwater Treatment

UC CEA students together with SM representatives for the succesful launch of Sustainability Tour.

Testing of potability of water, being shown to the students as part of the Sustainability tour

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OPINION

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2023

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

Right decision about CIF THE recent armed conflict between Israel and the pro-Palestine Hamas extremist group in the Israeli-held Gaza Strip has hogged the headlines.

Iran, a Middle Eastern country known for its staunch anti-Israel stance, is fanning the flames of war by urging Arab states to join the conflict, or to at least support Hamas.

Russia’s war in Ukraine has caused world oil prices to skyrocket. A simultaneous war in the Middle East will more than triple the current cost of petroleum.

At least four Filipino migrant workers in Gaza have been killed in the conflict.

The news media in the Philippines are so focused on the situation in Israel that it seems to have overlooked a very important accomplishment of the House of Representatives of Congress under the leadership of Speaker Martin Romualdez.

I speak of the recent controversy regarding the confidential and intelligence funds (CIFs) sought by a number of government offices from the House, when Congress was preparing the national budget for 2024.

Rather than be criticized for what happened, as its biased detractors are now doing, the House should be commended for taking the step in the right direction during these trying times Last year, at the height of the election season, taxpayers failed to notice that several executive departments had been spending government money listed under CIFs. The total amount involved is in the billions of pesos.

This year, as the House deliberated on the proposed national budget for 2024, House leaders were alarmed at the request of several executive departments for an extraordinary increase in their respective budgetary allotments for CIFs. Maintaining the present allocations was not enough for the heads of the departments.

They wanted much more money. That started the CIF controversy.

When House leaders made inquiries on the request for increases in CIFs, two national offices became the focus of congressional attention, and the attention of both the public and the media, namely, the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education.

Both offices are led by incumbent Vice President Sara Duterte.

The House wanted to know why the OVP and the DepEd wanted large sums of public funds for their CIFs. During the inquiries, Marikina Representative Stella Quimbo revealed that in 2022, the OVP spent P125-million of its confidential funds in a record 11 days.

According to the news media, that means the OVP spent more than P12-million during

EDITORIAL

More maritime patrols

each of those 11 days!

Precisely because the funds are confidential, the news media also reported that the OVP was unable to justify its spending spree.

As for the DepEd, it was explained that the DepEd needs the funds to prevent the infiltration of the ranks of public school teachers and administrators by communist elements.

Apparently, those explanations did not sit well with the House.

For the House, intelligence work should be done by the civilian and military intelligence agencies of the government, and not by the OVP or the DepEd. Thus, the CIFs sought by both offices were transferred by the House to the appropriate intelligence agencies of the government, which are in a better position to do intelligence work in the first place.

The House also noted that increasing the funds of the intelligence agencies is a right step in the Philippines’ defense against communist Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea. Interestingly, the House decision found support from a number of noted experts on the Constitution.

These experts pointed out that while the Administrative Code of the Philippines explicitly recognizes the functions of the intelligence agencies of the government, the claim of the OVP and the DepEd to functions relating to intelligence work has no statutory basis.

Moreover, they stressed that the OVP is not even a line department of the national government.

Since the only role of the Vice President is to succeed in case there is a vacancy in the presidency, there appears to be no reason why the OVP had to spend P125-million in just 11 days.

Even the most spendthrift public official, they said, will find it very difficult to spend so much public money in so little time.

The experts also asserted that even if Vice President Duterte is also the DepEd Secretary, it is the DepEd, not the OVP, which may perhaps justify a marked increase in its annual budget to run the DepEd, but not for intelligence work.

It was also pointed out that confidential funds are the exception, not the rule, pursuant to the Constitutional mandate that transactions of the government should be transparent.

Ultimately, the House’s action was to uphold both the Constitution and the law while allocating public funds to government offices deemed most capable of exercising prudence in their use, with a view towards mitigating any potential squandering of taxpayers’ resources.

Rather than be criticized for what happened, as its biased detractors are now doing, the House should be commended for taking the step in the right direction during these trying times.

Amnesty for communist insurgents?

I RECALL President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. saying during his second State-ofthe-Nation Address or SONA saying insofar as the communist insurgency problem is concerned there might be a need for him to declare an amnesty to finally solve it.

This is because the numbers of the insurgency movement are dwindling, but the time frame was not mentioned, Santa Banana!

After many insurgents have started surrendering to the government, and the reported willingness of many insurgents wanting to lead normal lives, I believe the President should order Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro and the Armed Forces Chief to take a second look as to whether or not the insurgency movement is still a national security threat and whether or not it’s now time to declare an amnesty to enable them to return to the folds of the law.

My gulay, the way I see it, the communist insurgency problem may no longer be a threat to national security not only because of their dwindling numbers.

They are just operating mainly in the countryside as bandits harassing businesses and bus transportation owners and extorting from candidates during election time for what they call revolutionary tax to campaign.

In fact, governors of Eastern Visayas, where the insurgents are still operating, have come out with reports that many of the insurgents want to return to the folds of the law, but are hesitant for fear of being accused and incarcerated for many crimes.

Many of the insurgents in fact, they say, want to have normal lives.

There’s reason why the insurgency movement is not only dwindling,

concentrated mostly in the countryside of Quezon province and the Bicol peninsula, in the provinces of Leyte and Samar, and some provinces in Mindanao outside of the Muslim provinces.

If I am not wrong, the latest estimate of the AFP and the Philippine National Police is that about only 1,500 are still fully armed.

The death of Joma Sison and also the death of the old ideologies of communism had mainly contributed to the dwindling number of insurgents.

I’d say, it’s now time for the President, the DND secretary, the PNP and the Security Council to consider an amnesty for the communist insurgents.

Call for unity I was amused at the statement of VIce President Duterte, concurrent secretary of the Education Department calling for unity even as she accuses the House of representative leadership of “politicking” over the realignment of the confidential funds of the Office of the Vice President and the DepEd. Inday Sara should address her statement on unity to her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is continuously ranting against the House leadership in an effort to defend the CIFs of his daughter.

He also ranted about Speaker Martin Romualdez being against Sara because of the perceived candidacy of Inday Sara for

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ROPITIOUS that the Philippines is conducting, on a limited capacity, more maritime patrols and freedom of navigation missions in the West Philippine Sea after aggressive Chinese maneuvers against a resupply mission on Sunday.

Chinese ships blocked two Philippine resupply vessels on their way to Ayungin Shoal, leading to collisions that damaged BRP Cabra, a Coast Guard patrol, and civilian ship Unaizah May 2.

Jonathan Malaya, assistant director general of the National Security Council, said the country’s increased patrols came as it again monitored “a large number of Chinese maritime militia vessels” not only near Ayungin but also in Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal) and Sabina (Escoda) Shoal.

We add our voice to Malaya’s appeal to China to “act responsibly” and respect and adhere to international law, aware that Beijing is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS. UNCLOS lays down a comprehensive regime of law and order in the world’s oceans and seas establishing rules governing all uses of the oceans and their resources We are also heartened the embassies of the United States and Canada have condemned moves by the Chinese Coast Guard to block the resupply mission to

We are gladdened that the incident this week is being taken seriously at the highest level of government the BRP Sierra Madre, a Philippine Navy ship grounded on Ayungin Shoal, that led to a collision in the disputed waters.

The Canadian Embassy has condemned what it called “unlawful and dangerous conduct” by the Chinese vessels, which it said was unjustified.

“China has no lawful claim to the West Philippine Sea (and) its actions are incompatible with the obligations of a signatory to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea,” it said.

The Canadian Embassy said it “affirms its support for a rules-based order in the South China Sea consistent with international law, including UNCLOS

and the 2016 arbitral decision, which is final and binding on the parties.

China claims, following its mythical tendash line a vast part of the South China Sea, including that which is within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

It was invalidated by an international court in The Hague in 2016 after the Philippines won its case against China, although the latter continues to ignore that ruling.

Malaya also accused China of conducting what he called a “malign information operation” where “false narratives” are shared with the public.

In an alert on its website, the Chinese Coast Guard said it had “blocked vessels from the Philippines delivering illegal construction materials to the illegally grounded warship on the Ren’ai Reef in accordance with the law.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has tasked the Philippine Coast Guard to begin an inquiry into the latest incident, caused by what officials called the dangerous, illegal, and reckless maneuvers by China’s vessels.

We are gladdened that the incident this week is being taken seriously at the highest level of government, It is comforting to read the Philippines will continue to protect its national interests amid provocations.

The country’s national security adviser Secretary Eduardo Año said, “We will not be deterred and we will continue to resupply our troops in BRP Sierra Madre despite provocations.”

Disproportionate use of force in Gaza NOW on its third week, the Israel-Hamas war continues to exact a heavy toll on both sides.

More than 1,400 people in Israel have been killed — mostly civilians slain during the initial Hamas attack on October 7. At least 212 people were captured and dragged back to Gaza.

On the other hand, more than 4,600 people have been killed in Gaza, mostly from Israeli air strikes.

This figure includes the disputed toll of 500 people from a rocket attack on a hospital.

While investigation is ongoing, it is believed Israel is responsible for the carnage.

But Israel has denied this, instead pointed a finger at Hamas for a rocket that it said had supposedly misfired and instead landed on the hospital, killing and wounding hundreds of innocent civilians.

What is clear at this point, judging from the high casualty rate in the ongoing conflict, is that Israel has mounted a disproportionate use of force on Gaza, its airstrikes targeting mostly buildings and other structures where it claims Hamas fighters are hiding underneath a maze of tunnels beneath those buildings.

Now, the Israel-Hamas war threatens to spread to other fronts and to escalate into a broader conflict.

On October 22, Israeli warplanes struck targets across Gaza, two airports in Syria, and a mosque in the occupied West Bank allegedly used by militants.

Israel has also traded fire with Lebanon’s Hezbollah militant group since the war began. and tensions are soaring in the occupied West Bank, where Israeli forces have battled militants in refugee camps and carried out two airstrikes in recent days.

Israel appears poised to launch a ground offensive in the Gaza Strip following Hamas’ deadly Oct. 7 rampage, with tanks and troops massed at the border.

Israel’s military said the country had increased airstrikes across Gaza to hit targets that would reduce the risk to troops in the next stage of the war.

Israel repeated its calls for people to leave northern Gaza, including by dropping leaflets from the air.

It estimated 700,000 of Gaza’s 2.3 million population have already fled.

But hundreds of thousands remain.

Does the former President think that what he is doing will raise the political stock of Inday Sara? On the other hand, people are now thinking, is the daughter a copy of her father? the presidency in 2028.

Now, who is politicking?

Both father and daughter are pathetic.

While the former President keeps on ranting over the realignment of his daughter’s CIF, P500 million for the OVP and another P125 million for the DepEd, or

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Anita F. Grefal Baldwin R. Felipe Edgar M. Valmorida

That would raise the risk of mass civilian casualties in any ground offensive.

Israeli military officials say Hamas’ infrastructure and underground tunnel system are concentrated in Gaza City in the north, and the next stage of the offensive will include unprecedented force there.

Israel says it wants to crush Hamas by all means necessary.

Israel’s military has said it is targeting Hamas fighters and installations and does not specifically target civilians. Palestinian militants have fired over 7,000 rockets at Israel, according to the Israeli military.

We believe the international community should now intercede to prevent an escalation of the war that is likely to lead to more casualties, mostly on the side of Hamas and the civilian population in Gaza Amid the United States declaration that it stands solidly behind Israel in its war against Hamas, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Hamas was responsible, not just for its brutal rampage in southern Israel, but for the deaths of civilians in Israel’s attacks on Gaza.

“It knew that in Israel’s necessary response, civilians would be caught in that crossfire,” he said.

He said the militants were operating among the civilian population and its tunnels were buried under hospitals and schools.

“What does anyone expect Israel to do?” he said. “This is on Hamas.”

Bottom of Form But a US State Department official who worked on global arms transfers resigned last week due to his opposition to the Biden administration’s

a total of P650,000 CIF, his daughter now rants for unity.

Santa Banana, the father even threatened to kill Rep. France Castro because of her attacks against his daughter!

Now who is politicking?

My gulay, the former President even accused the House leadership and membership of wallowing in filthy money, to the point of saying that “the Speaker should open his books for auditing.”

I consider it pathetic for a former President, in his attempt to get into the headlines, to rant on the alleged lack of auditing of congressional money.

Never in the history of the Philippines have we had a former Chief Executive rant on inconsequential issues.

Does the former President think that what he is doing will raise the political stock of Inday Sara?

On the other hand, people are now thinking, is the daughter a copy of her father?

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additional military aid to Israel.

Josh Paul, who was director of congressional and public affairs at the State Department’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs and had been at the department for 11 years, declared: “I am leaving today because I believe that in our current course with regards (sic) to the continued – indeed, expanded and expedited provision of lethal arms to Israel – I have reached the end of that bargain.”

“Let me be clear: Hamas’ attack on Isreal was not just a monstrosity; it was a monstrosity of monstrosities,” Paul said.

“But I believe to the core of my soul that the response Israel is taking, and with it the American support both for that response, and for the status quo of the occupation, will only lead to more and deeper suffering for both the Israeli and the Palestinian people — and is not in the long-term American interest.”

The resigned State Department official Paul wrote that he feared the US was “repeating the same mistakes we have made these past decades, and I decline to be a part of it for longer” and he cannot work in support of major policy decisions, “including rushing more arms to one side of the conflict, that I believe to be shortsighted, destructive, unjust, and contradictory to the very values that we publicly espouse.”

In any event, we believe the international community should now intercede to prevent an escalation of the war that is likely to lead to more casualties, mostly on the side of Hamas and the civilian population in Gaza, and a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented proportions in the region.

If Israel pursues a scorched-earth and takeno-prisoners war in Gaza, it risks committing genocide that will be condemned by the peace-loving nations in no uncertain terms.

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

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Wage board okays P30-P35 daily pay hike in Ilocos, Western Visayas T

By Vito Barcelo

HE National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) has approved a raise of P30 to P35 in the daily minimum pay of workers in the Ilocos and Western Visayas regions, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

Wage earners in the non-agriculture sector in Western Visayas will get not less than P480 a day, while their counterparts in bigger companies with more than 10 workers will receive P450 per day.

On the other hand, workers in outfits classified as agricultural will get a bit

less at P440 daily.

In a statement, DOLE said the wage increase—P35 in Ilocos Region and P30 in Western Visayas will benefit a total of 287,683 minimum wage workers in the private sector in the two regions.

The DOLE also said some 677,626

full-time wage and salary workers earning above the minimum wage may also indirectly benefit from upward adjustments at the enterprise level arising from corrections of certain distortions in the wage system.

In the Ilocos region, the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs) also issued a wage order for domestic helpers commonly called “kasambahay.”The hikes were expected to benefit a total of 259,820 domestic workers —approximately 23 percent (58,517) of whom are on live-in arrangements, and 77 percent (201,303) live-out.

The order raises the monthly minimum salary for kasambahay to P5,500, up by P500 from the previous level of P5,000.

The increase brought to P435 the daily minimum pay in non-agricultural establishments with 10 or more workers, and P402 for non-agricultural companies with less than 10 workers, as well as agricultural workers in the Ilocos region.

“The RTWPBs shall undertake information campaigns to ensure compliance and to provide assistance to enterprises in correcting possible wage distortions,” the DOLE statement read.

The wage orders were i sued on October 21 and will take effect after 15 days, specifically on November 6.

The regional wage board also granted a P35 to P50 minimum wage hike in Calabarzon.

Ormoc remains richest city in Eastern Visayas ORMOC City in Southern Leyte has sustained its ranking as the wealthiest urban center in Eastern Visayas as of end of 2022, according to the annual report recently released by the Commission on Audit (COA).

With its reported P7.47-billion assets, Ormoc City beat the six other cities in the region.

Rep. Richard Gomez highlighted the joint efforts of the local and city government, barangay units, businesses and the people for the city’s achievement.

“Magandang balita ito para sa mga Ormocanons. Dahil sa pagkakaisa, naiangat ng city government ang ekonomiya ng Ormoc City para mapabilang sa isa sa mga mayayamang siyudad hindi lamang sa Visayas kundi pati sa buong bansa,” Gomez said.

Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez credited the city’s financial stability to the leadership of her husband, Rep. Richard Gomez who served as city mayor for two terms before he moved up to the House of Representatives in 2022, and the performance of local government employees and the city’s village officials—who have been the backbone of the city government’s excellent public service.

“Our success today would not have been so, without the efficient, well-managed LGU (local government unit) that I took over from Mayor Richard. Indeed, it is easier to reach for the skies when standing on someone’s strong shoulders.

His task was not easy, building from almost ground zero, but he fought bravely and was rewarded,” Torres-Gomez said during her state of the city address on October 18.

“This is a chance for us to pause, just for a short while, to look back and see how far we have come from last year. It is a time for us to check on our dreams and aspirations, to see what we have done so far to get to where we want to go,” she said.

DESTRUCTION OF FORFEITED PRODUCTS. Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual (left) leads the ceremonial destruction of forfeited products and signing of a deed of donation for disposal to the Manila city government held inside the DTI Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau parking lot in Makati City. Norman Cruz

Lawmaker assures returning OFWs of full assistance

By Maricel V. Cruz THE House of Representatives’ Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs has committed ‘exhaustive deliberations’ on national policies and pieces of legislation involving the reintegration of returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to make sure they get the benefits they deserve as “modern day heroes.”

OFW party-list Rep. Marissa Magsino, a member of the committee, revealed this after the panel chaired by Rep. Ron Salo of Kabayan party-list decided to conduct public consultations and hearings on measures supporting President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s programs for OFWs.

“We have receive a marching order from Speaker Martin Romualdez to ensure the welfare of returning OFWs to our country, specifically to assist them in finding jobs and livelihood opportunities,” Magsino said.

“As modern day heroes, they deserve nothing less than the full support of a country that gained a lot from their remittances. They are a powerful force in our economic recovery, especially during the pandemic. Their contributions kept us afloat through the economic contraction during the pandemic and, now, as we try to bounce back,” Magsino added.

Magsino, an assistant minority leader, underscored the need for comprehensive

public consultations to gather input and insights from various stakeholders and develop robust plans and policies to better serve OFWs who play a vital role in the country’s growth and development.

“We thank the OFWs for their significant contributions in propelling the economy and strengthening the relationship of the Philippines with other nations around the world,” Magsino expressed.

“We will be asking the private sector to coordinate job vacancies with the concerned government agencies like the Department of Migrant Workers so that we can directly refer returning OFWs whose skills match with vacant positions,” she said.

Dapitan gov’t hosts foreign military attaches at Rizal Shrine, other spots

DAPITAN CITY TOUR. Members of the Foreign Armed Forces Attaches and commanders of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Western Mindanao Command of the Philippine Army gather at the Punto de Desembarco de Rizal in Dapitan City as part of their Rizal Heritage Tour last Oct. 7.

DAPITAN City—The Dapitan City government, in partnership with Glorious Fantasyland, treated to a one-day tour the Foreign Armed Forces Attaches (FAFAs) and their families in one of the city’s tourism foremost tourist attraction, the Rizal Heritage last Oct. 7.

Mayor Seth Jalosjos, along with the city councillors, led tour that ended at the City Government Center where the guests were met with the festive Kinabayo Festival beat by the Dapitan National High School Drum and Bugle Corps.

The Western Mindanao Command of the Philippine Army took the occasion to make a courtesy call on the FAFAs during the Dapitan visit.

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The guests were also given a round of the other tourist attractions in the city, including the tour Punto de Desembarco de Rizal en Dapitan, Dapitan Heritage Plaza, St. James the Greater Church, the Relief Map of Mindanao, Don Aniano Adasa Heritage House and the Rizal Museum in Barangay Talisay.

The tour at Rizal estate which was finely decorated with value added local refreshments and snacks was a sight to behold.

Other highlights of the event featured cultural presentations such songs, poem reading and arnis demonstration – an indigenous form of martial arts using hardwood sticks but considered as form of sports which Rizal taught to his students.

High taxes, levies shoo away private investors from agri industry—expert AN economic expert says high taxes, custom duties, and tariff rates, as well as difficulty in procuring licenses and raw materials are among the barriers to private investments in the agriculture sector.

Foundation for Economic Freedom Fellow Dr. Fermin Adriano made this observation in his presentation during a forum entitled, “Cultivating Investments in the Philippine Agro-Industrial Manufacturing for Food Security” organized by the Stratbase ADR Institute.

In his remarks, Adriano pointed out the need for more private sector investments to increase agricultural productivity.

“The limited private sector investment in Philippine agriculture, which is evident in the small percentage of establishments – only 1 percent engaged in the sector--- contributes to consistently low farm productivity,” Adriano said.

“Without heavy private sector investment, our agriculture sector will not develop because the resources in the hands of the government is limited. The bulk of resources in this country is in the hands of the private sector. If they are not going to actively participate, I don’t see a future in the agriculture industry,” Adriano added.

Adriano also identified some of the main investment bottlenecks as far as the private sector is concerned.

“For those who are needing imported materials as raw materials, they complain about the high tariff rates of certain commodities. For example, you’re involved in animal feed milling, the tariff rate is about 35 percent lowest and it can go as high as 40 percent or above compared to Vietnam which is only about 2 percent,” Adriano explained.

Bill allowing PWDs, seniors to vote early up for Senate okay SENIOR Citizen party-list Rep. Rodolfo Ordanes thanked Senators Lito Lapid and Cynthia Villar for pushing the the enactment of a measure enabling senior citizens and persons with disability (PWD) to vote early in local and national elections.

Ordanes underscored that it is high time to consider the health and physical condition of senior citizens while protecting their right to vote.

“Masakit sa damdamin na makita ang ating mga lolo at lola na makipagsiksikan sa mga presinto para lamang sila ay makaboto (It is painful to seek the elderlies being pushed and shoved just to cast their ballots),” said Ordanes, chairman of the House Special Committee for Senior Citizens.

“Kayat ako ay labis na nagpapasalamat kina Senator Lito Lapid at Cynthia Villar dahil sa tunay na pagmamalasakit sa senior citizens. Tiwala ako na maraming senador pa ang susuporta sa panukalang-batas (That’s why I am very thankful to Senators Lito Lapid and Cynthia Villar who showed genuine concern for our senior citizens. I trust that more senators will support my bill,)” he added.

The solon also urged the government to establish a venue for cluster precincts accessible for senior citizens and PWDs. Ordanes is also pushing House Bill 7576 which was already approved on third and final reading.

Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez commended the 259 House members who voted for the approval of the bill because of their concern for senior citizens and PWDs. The approved measure was subsequently submitted to the Senate.

Sta. Rosa opens renovated public market THE revitalized wet section of the Santa Rosa City Public Market was inaugurated last October 23, graced

by The Mayor Arlene B. Arcillas.

The wet section, boasting a total of 140 stalls, has been allocated for existing stallholders listed on the master list. However, new vendors and aspiring entrepreneurs may apply for stalls provided they meet the specified qualifications.

This inclusivity will give new life to the marketplace, creating fresh opportunities for both longstanding vendors and those looking to develop their business.

Located at the rear of the market, the revamped wet section not only symbolizes a significant stride for-

ward for Santa Rosa but also represents the city’s commitment to rejuvenating its public market.

The renovation of this section is part of a broader initiative aimed at stimulating economic growth and enhancing the city’s public spaces.

A pivotal component of the Santa Rosa City Public Market’s transformation is the Santa Rosa Commercial Center (SRCC), which was inaugurated on September 22, 2023. Mayor Arlene B. Arcillas and Vice Mayor Arnold B. Arcillas presided over the event, highlighting the city’s dedication to preserving its cultural heritage.

The SRCC, adorned with the icon-

RENOVATED MARKET. Santa Rosa City Mayor Arlene Arcillas leads the opening of the city’s renovated public market. The event is part of a broader initiative aimed at stimulating economic growth and enhancing the city’s public spaces. Roy Tomandao

ic heritage arch that has graced Santa Rosa pers can explore a diverse array of products, city’s unwavering commitment to embracing for generations, now hosts a total of 173 from stylish footwear to delectable culinary the future while paying homage to its rich stalls catering to a myriad of needs. Shop- delights. This inauguration symbolizes the cultural legacy. Roy Tomandao

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US accuses Iran of aiding attacks on its ME bases W

ASHINGTON, DC – The United States accused Iran on Monday (Tuesdy in Manila) of “actively facilitating” attacks on US forces in the Middle East as it confirmed it had sent a small number of military advisors to Israel.

US concerns have been rising about the potential for escalation of the war between Israel and Hamas militants, although Washington has rejected calls for a ceasefire as it says that ally Israel has a right to self-defense.

“Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah, and we know that Iran is closely monitoring these events and, in some cases, actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good or for that of Iran,” National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters at the White House.

“We know Iran’s goal is to maintain some level of deniability here, but we’re not going to allow them to do that,” Kirby added.

Until the flareup in violence, President Joe Biden’s administration had hailed a period of relative calm with pro-Iranian militias in the region following quiet talks between US and Iranian officials.

But since Wednesday, at least five rocket and drone attacks have targeted three Iraqi military bases where American troops are Manila stationed as part of the international coaliandard TODAY

tion set up to fight the Islamic State group.

Iran’s Shiite clerical leaders support Hamas as well as the Lebanese Shiite movement Hezbollah, Shiite paramilitary groups in Iraq and Yemen’s Huthi rebels.

A senior US defense official said Monday that the situation could get significantly worse.

“We see a prospect for much more significant escalation against US forces and personnel in the near-term,” the official told journalists, characterizing the recent spike in attacks as “efforts by Iran and Iran proxy forces to seek to escalate this conflict.”

The United States has promised major defense aid to Israel since the October 7 assault by Hamas militants. Kirby confirmed that the United States has also sent a “few” military advisors to Israel.

The officers have experience in “the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting, and may conduct in the future” and were “over there to share some perspectives,” Kirby said.

Israeli officials say more than 1,400 people have died, mostly civilians, in the worst attack since Israel’s creation in 1948.

In Gaza, the Hamas-run health ministry says more than 5,000 people, most of them also civilians, have been killed during Israel’s retaliation.

With conditions dire in Gaza, European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said Monday that he expected the bloc’s leaders to call jointly for a “humanitarian pause” to let in assistance. AFP REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES National Capital Judicial Region Regional Trial Court Quezon City - Branch 217 rtc1qzn217@judiciary.gov.ph 0927-8600957/85290868

UNFATHOMABLE GRIEF. A relative mourns by the bodies of members of the Abu Morad family who died

following Israeli strikes earlier, during their funeral in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on Tuesday, amid the ongoing battles between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas. AFP

Ultra-orthodox Jews wrestle with whether to serve in Gaza war, want to join army JERUSALEM—They were spared from the bloody ing “those who tremble” at the word of God—among the Hamas attack on October 7 and they are exempt from 1,400 killed by Hamas on October 7. military service.

The all-night rave and the secular kibbutzim around Yet some ultra-Orthodox Jews have chosen to renounce Gaza where the Islamist militants killed hundreds of cithat controversial privilege and join the Israeli army. vilians, were not places were ultra-Orthodox Jews were Dozens gathered outside a recruitment office in Tel Aviv likely to spend time. this week, responding to an appeal by the army to all those Nor, because of their exemptions, were Haredi Jews who might have skills useful in the war against Hamas. likely to have been among those soldiers killed fighting to The army said that, in the end, 120 had enrolled and regain control from Hamas. would be assigned to support missions, nursing or driving.

Instead, the ultra-Orthodox are active in charitable asJournalists have not been permitted by Israeli authori- sociations and, in particular, Zaka, an NGO that works to CYAN MAGENTA BLACK ties to speak with the new recruits. identify bodies andYELLOW ensure proper Jewish burials.

The number may be modest, but the symbolism is nevAmong those few Haredi Jews who do join the milertheless strong. itary, many serve in a unit that specializes in body Under an agreement that dates to the foundation of Isra- retrievals. el in 1948, Jewish men who choose to study the Torah full With the Israeli army likely to launch a ground invasion time in a yeshiva are granted an annual deferment from of the Gaza Strip, following on from its relentless aerial military service until the age of 26, at which point they bombardment that the Hamas-run health ministry says has become exempt. killed more than 5,000 people, mostly civilians, the deThat allows around 12,000 young men a year, accord- cades-old debate around Haredi military exemptions has ing to a recent army report, to avoid obligatory national gained a new urgency. service that would otherwise last 32 months as well as the The spiritual leaders of ultra-Orthodox Judaism, who reserve duty for which discharged citizens are liable until account for around 12 per cent of the Israeli population, the age of 40. have called for a redoubling of prayers and a strengthenReligious women are automatically exempted from the ing of religious practice.

24-month conscription imposed on secular Israeli women.

Before the war started, a bill was due to be debated in There were few, if any, members of the Haredi com- the Israeli parliament on continuing the deferments for munity—the Hebrew name for the ultra-Orthodox, mean- Haredi Jews. AFP

RE: IN THE MATTER OF JUDICIAL RECOGNITION OF THE FOREIGN JUDGMENT DISSOLVING THROUGH DIVORCE THE MARRIAGE AND DECLARATION OF CAPACITY TO REMARRY UNDER ARTICLE 26 OF THE FAMILY CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES.

Macron arrives for solidarity visit in Israel

MARICRIS E. DE LOS REYES OOTSUKA, represented by her Attorney-In-Fact MARILYN DE LA CRUZ ESGUERRA Petitioner, -versus-

SP. Proc. No. R-QZN-23-07555-SP

HISAO OOTSUKA, THE CITY CIVIL REGISTRAR OF QUEZON CITY and CIVIL REGISTRAR GENERAL / ADMINISTRATOR of the PHILIPPINE STATISTICS AUTHORITY, Respondents. x-----------------------------------------------x

ORDER This is verified Petition for Judicial Recognition of the Foreign Judgment Dissolving through Divorce the Marriage and Declaration of Capacity to Remarry under Article 26 of the Family Code of the Philippines, filed by Maricris E. Delos Reyes – Ootsuka, through counsel on August 18, 2023.

The Petitioner Maricris E. Dolos Reyes represented in this case by her Attorney-in-Fact Marilyn De La Cruz Esguerra, alleges the following: that she was married to Mr. Hisao Ootsuka, a Japanese national on July 4, 2018 in Nagahama City, Shiga City, Japan, a copy of their Report of Marriage was issued by the Philippine Statistics Office; that Petitioner and Mr. Ootsuka came to know each other in the early part of 2018 through her sister in Japan, Mr. Ootsuka courted the Petitioner and proposed to marry her in Japan; that after their marriage, Petitioner and Mr. Ootsuka then lived together as husband and wife in Japan. However, just after two years of their connubial relationship, Mr. Ootsuka changed his attitude and treatment towards the Petitioner. He would often quarrel the Petitioner over petty matters at home; that Mr. Ootsuka became unfaithful to the Petitioner by dating another woman whom he met at the club. Mr. Ootsuka also got addicted with gambling and other vices and because of his irresponsibility and philandering activities they decided to seek divorce for there was no more hope of reconciliation with each other; that on August 1, 2020, at the insistence of Mr. Ootsuka, the latter asked the Petitioner and they both signed a notification of Divorce where they submitted to the Office of the Mayor of Nagahama City, Shiga, Prefecture, Japan, the said Mayor who had authority to accept the notification, issued a Certificate of Acceptance of Divorce which is equivalent to a divorce decree in Japan thus confirming the dissolution of their marriage by divorce through mutual consent in accordance with Japanese Divorce Law; that the said accepted notification of divorce and the issuance of Divorce Acceptance were later entered, reported and recorded at the Family Registry or Certificate of all Items (Kosekitohon) of Mr. Ootsuka, to show the fact of their Divorce in accordance with the Family Registration Law in Japan, where marriage and divorce of Japanese citizens are recorded; that the certified and apostilled copies of the said foreign public documents issued by the custodian of the said Family Registry (Kosekitohan) and the Certificate of Acceptance (Juri Shomeisho) of Mr. Ootsuka and the Petitioner in Japanese text with English translations by competent translator Mika Yamauchi in Osaka, Japan are attached to the instant Petition; that the divorce by mutual agreement is recognized in Japan as another form of absolute divorce; that under the Japan’s Divorce Law, a husband and wife may divorce by agreement; that the said divorce by agreement effected by the husband and wife shall have the same effect as though it has been judicially effected and the said divorce law allows the Japanese husband to remarry; that on the basis of the Civil Code of Japan, the divorce decree obtained by mutual agreement is valid and in conformity with Japanese law on divorce and of full legal force and effect in Japan which allow Mr. Ootsuka capacity to remarry; thus, the Petitioner filed the instant case for the recognition of the Divorce obtained by her former husband Mr. Hisao Ootsuka for the recognition of the divorce decree and for her to be capacitated to remarry under the Article 26 of the Family Code of the Philippines.

WHEREFORE, finding the Petition to be sufficient in form and in substance, let this Petition be set for hearing before this Court located at Room 604, Sixth Floor, Hall of Justice – Annex, Diliman, Quezon City on December 6, 2023 at 10:00 in the morning at which place and on which time, all interested person must appear and file their opposition/s to the Petition.

Let copies of this Order be published at the expense of the Petitioner, pursuant to Section 4 of Rule 108 of the Rules of Court, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation throughout the Philippines, and to be posted on the main entrance of Quezon City Hall and Bulletin Board of the Office of the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court, Quezon City.

Further, let copies of this Order, together with the Petition and its annexes be sent by registered mail to the Office of the Solicitor General, Office of the Clerk of the City Prosecutor of Quezon City, Office of the Local Civil Registrar of Quezon city and Philippine Statistics Authority, Quezon City.

SO ORDERED. Quezon City, Philippines, August 22, 2023.

Copy Furnished: Atty. Florante A. Zagada Counsel for the Petitioner Lot 19, Block 30, St. Thomas Ave., St., Charbel South, Sampaloc IV, Dasmariñas City, Cavite 4114 olanzagada@yahoo.com Maricris E. Delos Reyes-Ootsuka Petitioner Shiga Ken, Nagahama Shi, Shinjotera Cho 463 Pearl Town, NK 206 Japan Marilyn De La Cruz Esguerra Attorney-in-Fact of Petitioner Sitio Bacungan, Castnas, Sariaya Quezon Province

(Sgd.) CARLO D. VILLARAMA Presiding Judge OFFICE OF THE SOLICITOR GENERAL 134 Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City OFFICE OF THE CITY PROSECUTOR DOJ Building, QC-Hall Compound, Quezon City PHILIPPINE STATISTIC AUTHORITY Quezon City OFFICE OF THE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR Quezon City Hisao Ootsuka Private Respondent 189 Hoda Cho Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture , Japan (MStandard - Oct. 25, Nov. 1 & 8, 2023)

DRUG TRAFFICKING. Forensics recover evidence at the site where at least 12 police officers were killed in an ambush by unidentified attackers in Coyuca de Benitez, state of Guerrero, Mexico, on Tuesday (Manila time). The region is plagued plagued by violence related to drug trafficking, authorities said. AFP

Armed attacks in Mexico leave 24 dead in drug clash ACAPULCO, Mexico—Three separate armed attacks in Mexico on Monday left at least 24 people dead, including a dozen police officers, authorities said about the latest violence to hit regions plagued by drug trafficking.

In the deadliest incident, unidentified attackers targeted a security patrol in Guerrero state’s municipality of Coyuca de Benitez, prosecutor Alejandro Hernandez said.

At least 13 people were killed and two others wounded in that attack, the state prosecutor’s office said in a statement, with Hernandez earlier having confirmed that at least 11 of those killed were members of the municipal police force.

A senior state security official was traveling in the convoy when it was attacked, authorities said, without confirming media reports that he was murdered along with police bodyguards.

Security forces were later seen patrolling the area—where several lifeless bodies lay on the ground—as a police helicopter flew overhead.

Another attack, in the neighboring state of Michoacan, left four civilians and a policeman dead, and two others wounded, authorities said.

A group of gunmen had attacked the brother of the mayor of the town of Tacambaro, according to the state prosecutor’s office.

A restaurant worker and a member of the police force were among those killed, while the mayor’s brother was wounded, it said.

In a video posted on social media, gunmen were seen opening fire before fleeing in several vehicles. AFP

TEL AVIV, Israel—French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Tel Aviv on Tuesday to express his country’s “full solidarity” with Israel after the deadly October 7 attacks by Palestinian militant group Hamas, according to an AFP journalist.

His visit comes more than two weeks after Hamas militants stormed into Israel from the Gaza Strip and killed at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians who were shot, mutilated or burned to death on the first day of the raid, according to Israeli officials.

Among them were 30 French citizens.

Macron was due to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to express France’s “full solidarity” with Israel after that attack, the French presidency said.

He was also expected to call for the “preservation of the civilian population” in Gaza, amid Israel’s relentless bombardment, and as it prepares for a ground invasion of the overcrowded Palestinian enclave.

More than 5,000 people, most of them women and children, have died during Israel’s attacks, according to numbers given by the Hamas-run health ministry.

Macron will in particular call for a “humanitarian truce” to allow desperately needed aid into Gaza, whose 2.4 million people have been largely deprived of water, food, electricity and other basic supplies after an Israeli blockade, the Elysee Palace said.

Macron and Netanyahu were due to hold a joint press conference at 1:00 pm (1000 GMT).

The French head of state was also due to meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog, as well as opposition leaders Benny Gantz and Yair Lapid in Jerusalem.

And in Tel Aviv, he was due to meet the families of French and FrenchIsraeli nationals killed in the Hamas attack or being held hostage in Gaza.

Seven French citizens are still missing: one of them, a French woman, has been confirmed as among the more than 200 people Israel says were taken hostage by Hamas. AFP

BUSINESS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2023

A7

extrastory2000@gmail.com

Global concerns weigh on PH stock market

By Jenniffer B. Austria

T

HE local stock market extended its losses Tuesday on mounting concerns about the global economy.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index fell 48.72 points, or 0.80 percent to close at 6,039.72, while the broader all-shares index went down by 18.37 points or 0.56 percent, to settle at 3,284.69.

Analysts said foreign funds continued to exit the local market even if Philippine stocks were trading

at bargain prices.

“So far, the concerns regarding Israel-Hamas conflict, high-interest rates and elevated inflation continue to exert downward pressure on sentiment,” Philstocks Financial Inc. research analyst Claire Alviar said.

Losers outnumbered gainers, 100 to 72, while 57 issues were unchanged.

Two of the 10 most active stocks ended in the green, with Ayala Land Inc. rising 0.89 percent to P28.20 and BDO Unibank Inc. inching up 0.79 percent to P127.40.

Other Asian markets recovered ground on Tuesday with traders weighed down by unpredictability over the ongoing crisis in the Middle East and key earnings and economic data releases expected

later in the week.

Volatile US Treasury yields had affected Monday trading on Wall Street where some indexes rebounded after a sluggish start but the S&P 500 suffered its lowest close since May. That uncertainty transferred to the Asian trading day with both Hong Kong and Tokyo trading down before the Nikkei 225 staged a late recovery at the close while the Hang Seng Index continued slumping.

The rising bond yield has increased worries that Federal Reserve interest rates will stay higher for longer, denting the growth outlook.

“The rise of the 10-year US bond yield and worries that the Middle East situation may deteriorate continued to

weigh on the Tokyo market,” Nomura Securities said.

After shares fell for the better part of the day, late bargain-hunting saw Tokyo end in the green. Seoul, Taipei, Jakarta, Singapore and Sydney also found themselves in positive territory.

But these concerns, as well as an upcoming report on third-quarter US growth and September personal income and spending that includes key inflation data, weighed on Hong Kong, which ended down 1.1 percent.

“The current economic environment presents a confusing backdrop, making it incredibly challenging to make a definitive equity market trading assessment,” said Stephen Innes of SPI Asset Management. With AFP

Puregold nets P6.6b in first three quarters on higher sales SUPERMARKET chain operator Puregold Price Club Inc. said Tuesday nine-month net income rose 2.1 percent to P6.6 billion from P6.47 billion in the same period last year as compressed margins and higher operating expenses partially offset higher sales.

Nine-month sales jumped 9.2 percent to P139.3 billion from P127.5 billion.

INVESTMENT FORUM. Attendees arrive for the yearly Future Investment Initiative (FII) conference in the Riyadh on Oct. 24, 2023. More than 6,000 delegates are registered for the three-day event that will feature appearances by global banking chiefs and the presidents of South Korea, Kenya and Rwanda, organizers say. AFP

Phoenix to raise over P1b from sale of 85% stake in Singapore subsidiary

By Alena Mae S. Flores PHOENIX Petroleum Philippines Inc. said it plans to use its over P1 billion ($19.2 million) proceeds from the divestment of its investments in PNX Petroleum Singapore Pte. Ltd (PNX SG) for its working capital.

Phoenix said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange Tuesday it would divest its investments from PNX SG through a share buyback.

PNX SG will buy back the shares owned by Phoenix in the company. Phoenix owns about 85 percent equity, while Libra Investments Pte Ltd. has 15 percent.

Phoenix is disposing 22.6 million shares equivalent to its entire 85-percent interest of the total outstanding shares of PNX SG for $0.85 per share.

“This transaction shall raise an immediate $19.2 million in cash for PPPI which can be utilized to meet the immediate needs of the business for working capital to

purchase inventory for its B2B customers,” Phoenix said.

Phoenix said the valuation was based on the net book “The added working capital to be raised by the sale value as of July 31, 2023, reduced by its outstanding shall help push the recovery efforts of the local busi- receivables and the receivables of Phoenix LPG Philness, and together with its liability management exer- ippines Inc. (PLPI), Phoenix Gas Vietnam (PGV) and cise and any possible equity infusion, the same levels Udenna Corp. totaling $20.2 million. of revenue are expected to be attained in the 2 to 3 It said the transaction would also offset and settle years along with an increase in margins,” it said. the outstanding obligations of PLPI, PGV and Udenna PNX SG is a subsidiary of Phoenix engaged in the amounting to $24.6 million. trading of petroleum products in the region. It derives Phoenix said the transaction would have no impact its revenues through third-party sales aside from mere- its business operations because the company has been ly servicing primarily the supply needs of Phoenix. sourcing its inventories from local suppliers since mid“With the company’s Liability Management Exer- 2022. cise (LME), PNX SG sale is part of Manila key enabler to support the needs of Standard TODAY PPPI’s working capital. This is a selfhelp given the difficulty in raising additional working capital bank lines,” the company said.

Puregold said the group experienced positive same-store sales growth of 4.8 percent from Puregold stores and 4.1 percent from S&R Warehouse clubs, driven by higher foot traffic.

The grocery chain said same-store sales growth trends started to normalize in the second quarter, in contrast to the more flattering base effects felt in the first quarter.

“The company continues to see a buoyant trajectory in topline growth for the balance of the year,” Puregold said.

Puregold opened 30 new Puregold stores, 2 S&R Membership Shopping Warehouse branches and 2 S&R New York Style QSR outlets in the first nine months of the year.

The group had a total of 558 stores nationwide as of end-September.

These included 481 Puregold stores, 24 S&R Membership Shopping Warehouses and 53 S&R New York Style QSRs. Jenniffer B. Austria

Balance Sheet (Head Office and Branches) As of September 30, 2023

BOARD OF DIRECTORS (As of September 30, 2023)

Philip Lynch Chairman of the Board Robert B. Jordan Jr. Director Alan Roy V. Torio Director Michael A. Bautista Director Sarah Wang Director Atty. Ray Anthony Fajarito Director Chito Francisco R. Dizon Director

INNOVATION PARK. Filinvest Land, Inc., through Filinvest-BCDA Clark Inc., its joint venture with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), is fortifying its foothold in the booming Central Luzon region with the launch of the Filinvest Innovation Park-New Clark City (FIP-NCC) in Capas, Tarlac. Present during the launch are (from left) Filinvest Innovation Parks general manager Carmelo Centeno III, Philippine Economic Zone Authority deputy zone administrator Allan Datahan, Clark Development Corp. vice president for engineering services group Teresito Tiotuyco, FDC president and chief executive Rhoda Huang, BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang, FLI president and chief executive Tristan Las Marias, FLI senior vice president Francis Ceballos and ILO Construction Inc. president Eaton Ong.

BPI shortens offer period for fixed-rate bonds

By Julito G. Rada BANK of the Philippine Islands said Tuesday it will shorten its offer period for 1.5-year peso fixed-rate bonds due 2025 amid strong demand.

The bonds have an aggregate principal amount of P5 billion with option to upsize.

“The bonds have been met with strong interest from institutional, high-networth, and retail clients. As such, BPI will condense the bonds’ offer period to manage the overwhelming demand,” BPI said in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

The offer period began on Oct. 17, 2023 and will now end on Oct. 25,

2023—nine days ahead of the original end date of Nov. 3, 2023.

The planned issue and listing date of Nov. 13, 2023 remains unchanged.

Applications to purchase the bonds require a minimum investment amount of P1 million and additional increments of P100,000.

The net proceeds of BPI’s offering will be used for general corporate purposes, including funding source diversification.

BPI Capital Corp. and ING Bank N.V., Manila Branch are the joint lead arrangers and selling agents of the offer.

BPI and the joint lead arrangers reserve the right to update the offer terms, the periods and the dates as deemed appropriate and with due notice.

Jose Maria J. Marigomen Independent Director Atty Jose Ma. Jason J. Francisco Corporate Secretary

Alan Roy V. Torio President/CEO Michael A. Bautista Senior Vice President/CAO Raquel A. Sese Senior Vice President/COO Manny M. Vidal Cheif Finance Officer

A8 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2023 Roderick T. dela Cruz Cruz, Editor Alena Mae S. Flores, Assistant Editor business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com

BUSINESS

BSP eyes off-cycle interest hike this week B

By Julito G. Rada

ANGKO Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Eli Remolona Jr. said Tuesday an off-cycle interest rate hike may happen as early as Thursday this week amid the rising inflationary pressures.

“We will have a meeting now, and we will look at the data,” Remolona said at the sidelines of the 2nd Digital Financial Inclusion Awards at the BSP office in Manila.

“It [off-cycle rate hike] is on the table as early as Thursday,” Remolona said.

An off-cycle interest rate adjustment refers to a surprise increase or reduction of the policy rate during an unscheduled meeting of the BSP’s policy-making Monetary Board to respond to the latest economic developments.

Asked on why there would be an off-cycle rate hike, Remolona said “the data says inflation will go up very significantly, and there is a risk of affecting inflationary expectations.”

He did not give a hint on the magnitude of the off-cycle rate increase. “That is too much specific,” he said.

The last time the BSP went on an off-cycle rate move was on July 14, 2022 when it raised the benchmark policy rate by 75 basis points to 3.25 percent to rein in inflation and support the peso as the economy recovered from the global health crisis.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief

economist Michael Ricafort said the latest hawkish signal locally could be something preemptive in nature to better manage both actual inflation and inflation expectations.

“Amid the recent/lingering geopolitical risks on the Israel-Hamas war since Oct. 7, 2023 with a potential risk of widening in the Middle East, especially if it could involve Iran and other oil-producing countries in the region that could lead to higher global oil prices, inflation and policy rates,” Ricafort said.

The peso slightly strengthened against the US dollar as a result of the latest

hawkish signal from the BSP. The local currency closed at 56.76 against the US dollar Tuesday, up from 56.84 Monday.

Monetary Board member V. Bruce Tolentino and Deputy Governor Francis Dakila Jr. said local monetary authorities remained focused on combating inflation. They said this in front of 30 investment funds in Marrakech, Morocco during separate meetings arranged by Bank of America Securities, Barclays and Standard Chartered Bank on the sidelines of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank Group Annual Meetings.

Nasdaq hiring more Filipinos in Taguig office

By Jenniffer B. Austria

INTERNATIONAL SPEAKER. Former Finance Secretary and now Philippine Veterans Bank chairman Dr. Roberto de Ocampo speaks at the 16th Global Meeting of the Emerging Markets Forum in Marrakesh, Morrocco. The global meeting brought together over a hundred prominent policy makers, private sector leaders and intellectuals from around the world to discuss key issues on emerging markets and developing economies.

Quezon province approves Alternergy’s plan to build P5-b wind project

By Alena Mae S. Flores RENEWABLE power company Alternergy Holdings Corp. received an approval from the Quezon Provincial Development Council (PDC) to develop a P5-billion, 62-megawatt wind power project in Alabat, Quezon.

“We welcome the favorable support from the Quezon province. We will be long-term partners for the development of not just the Alabat Island but the entire province. Our Alabat Wind Power Project is committed to delivering sustainable energy and growth to our

community,” Alternergy president Gerry Magbanua said.

The Quezon PDC said the project “is seen to be beneficial to the socioeconomic development of the province and its constituent.”

It said this is consistent with the vision and mission of a progressive Quezon province through optimized utilization of resources and provision of infrastructure and support services.

The PDC endorsement is one of the remaining pre-construction clearances for the Alabat wind power project

which will be connected to the power grid via the 69-kilovolt distribution system of Quezon 1 Electric Cooperative.

Alternergy is expected to issue notice to proceed construction by the second half of 2024.

The company is accelerating the development of its wind power projects, the Alabat and Tanay wind power plants, with combined capacity of up to 164 MW, both recently awarded under the Green Energy Auction 2 (GEA 2) Program of the Department of Energy (DOE).

The company re-allocated its initial public offering (IPO) proceeds intended for its offshore wind and hydro projects to advance the development of the two wind projects.

Alternergy tapped three leading investment banks as lead arrangers for a P12-billion project finance structure for the construction of the two wind power projects.

Alternergy issued the mandate to BPI Capital Corp., RCBC Capital Corp. and SB Capital Investment Corp. for the terms and structure of the debt financing.

GLOBAL exchange and financial firm Nasdaq Technology AB on Tuesday announced plans to expand its workforce in the Philippines to 400 by end-2024.

Nelson Griggs, president of Capital Access Platforms at Nasdaq, said in a news briefing the company planned to hire more people as it anticipates new roles across its current operations.

Many of the new employees will focus on capital markets, private market, indices, ESG (environmental, social and governance) and general financial data analysis, he said.

Nasdaq opened its Manila office in Taguig City 10 years ago with 100 employees. It now employs 300 workers across three divisions, including capital access platforms, antifinancial crime and market platforms.

“Nasdaq is proud of its 10-year track record in the Philippines, and it would not have been possible without our employees who have been instrumental in helping to fuel our success while delivering exceptional service to our clients,” Griggs said.

“We look forward to building on all of the team’s tremendous accomplishments, as well as doubling down our existing efforts to deliver continued growth for our clients locally and across the globe,” he said.

Griggs said the company was pleased with the quality of talent, the university development and productivity of employees in the Philippines.

“We are a growing company, and we plan to be bigger here in the next five years and that means we focus on site like Manila. It is hard for me not to see us not getting bigger with very meaningful jobs,” Griggs said.

Nasdaq’s workforce is comprised mostly of financial analysts, web developers and specialists and multimedia product managers engaged in higher-value technical services.

2 Chinese firms investing $4b in PH to produce wind power equipment

By Othel V. Campos TWO Chinese companies are investing $4 billion in the Philippines to set up manufacturing facilities that will produce wind power plant equipment including towers and blades.

The Board of Investments (BOI) said one project involves the manufacture of monopile towers and the second project will produce turbines and blades, with each project costing $2 billion in investments.

“Hopefully we can close the project this yearend,” BOI managing director Ceferino Rodolfo Tuesday said at the sidelines of the Philippine Economic Mission organized by the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) for Japanese companies visiting the Philippines.

Rodolfo said the two Chinese firms already scouted prospective sites for the

projects near ports and with a workforce that have the skill set important to support the projects.

“When you talk about offshore wind, the component of wind projects are really big parts. A blade can be as long as 80 meters, and the monopoly towers are also huge, so it’s impossible they will locate inland. They prefer areas with ports, and shipbuilding capabilities so they can easily transport the products from the manufacturing base to the project areas,” he said.

The companies were closing in on a particular location and might install the facilities near each other, he said.

Rodolfo said Japanese companies visiting the Philippines also cited the country as a strategic location for big ticket renewable projects because of the increasing demand for renewable energy and its geographic location.

NEW GANTRIES. South Pacific International Container Terminal (SPICT), International Container Terminal Services Inc.’s (ICTSI) operation in the Port of Lae, Papua New Guinea, continues to ramp up operations with the acquisition of two brand-new Mitsui hybrid rubber tired gantries (RTG). Powered by a combination of a smaller diesel engine and lithium-ion battery, the Mitsui hybrids will contribute to more efficient landside operation resulting in faster turnaround time for outside trucks. Additionally, the hybrid mechanism helps reduce the terminal’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emission.

Pag-IBIG savings grew 10% to P67 billion in first 3 quarters

SKILLED WORKFORCE. Aboitiz Power Corp. chief people officer MaLu Inofre (second from right) recognizes the growing scarcity of skilled power industry workers and the necessity of developing a workforce that can adapt and willingly carry the important task of ensuring energy security, affordability and sustainability for today’s and tomorrow’s Filipinos. Inofre made her remarks during the first Philippine Power Industry HR Forum at Shangri-La The Fort, Taguig City presented by the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines Inc. (AmCham) in partnership with AboitizPower.

PAG-IBIG Fund members saved P66.73 billion in the first three quarters of 2023, up by P6.3 billion or 10 percent yearon-year, as more of them contributed beyond the required monthly savings, agency officials said Monday.

“We are happy that more Filipino workers are saving with Pag-IBIG Fund. The trust and confidence in our savings programs continue to grow as proven by our recordhigh members’ savings collections in January to September 2023,” said Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, head of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the 11-member PagIBIG Fund board of trustees.

“This is good news because the increase in the savings collected shall

allow us to finance the increasing demand for our home loans and short-term loans, and thus allow us to serve more members. This is in line with the directive of President Marcos to provide financial access to better the future of every Filipino,” said Acuzar.

Pag-IBIG Fund chief executive Marilene Acosta noted that the collections from the agency’s mandatory Regular Savings and voluntary MP2 Savings both increased and posted new record-high in nine months.

Collections from the Pag-IBIG Regular Savings amounted to P31.6 billion, an increase of 7 percent from the P29.6 billion in the same period last year.

The amount included P7.69 billion in

upgraded savings from members, or savings which members voluntarily entrusted with Pag-IBIG Fund on top of the required monthly savings.

The agency’s MP2 Savings sustained its popularity as collections reached P35.13 billion, a 14-percent increase from the P30.81 billion collected as of September last year.

“The record-high in members’ savings we collected from January to September this year shows the wider appreciation of our members on the benefits of saving with Pag-IBIG Fund. We are grateful that the biggest growth areas in our savings collections come from our voluntary MP2 Savings and from members who save more than their mandated monthly savings,” Acosta said.

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2023

B1

Riera U. Mallari, Editor Randy M. Caluag, Assistant Editor

Rangers stun Astros, advance to World Series

Manager Bruce Bochy of the Texas Rangers hoist the William Harridge Trophy after defeating the Houston Astros in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas. AFP

Mangliwan delivers PH’s 1st silver in Hangzhou Para Games

By Randy Caluag

H

ANGZHOU--Flashing his best form ever, Filipino Paralympian Jerrold Mangliwan handed Team Philippines a silver medal in wheelchair racing in the 4th Asian Para Games on Tuesday at the Huanglong Sports Center here.

The 43-year-old Southeast Asian Games multi-gold medalist submitted a personal best of 18.65 seconds to place second behind eventual gold finisher and defending champion, Japanese Ito Tatsuya, who set a new Asian Para Games’ record of 17.41 in the men’s 100m T52.

Mangliwan’s medal feat was a worthy improvement from his 19.34 clocking, that was good for fourth place.

“Basta ipinangako ko sa sarili ko na nang dumating ako dito sa China na dapat manalo ako ng medal kahit anong kulay,” said the pride of Tabuk, Kalinga after winning his first ever medal in his fourth Para Asiad appearance.

Mangliwan started slow and appeared headed to another fourth-place finish, but came from behind and outduelled

Jeong Jongdae of Korea and another Japanese, Ueyonabaru Horkazu down the stretch to complete his breakthrough performance that netted for the Philippines its first silver here. “‘Yan talaga ang ine-ensayo ko, mabagal talaga sa simula at sa bandang dulo ako pumupukpok,” he added.

Jeong was just 0.02 seconds abreast of Mangliwan for third place, while Horkazu settled for fourth.

Mangliwan’s silver came a day after swimmers Ernie Gawilan and Gary Bejino delivered bronze medals each to break the ice for Team Philippines’ medal quest with the backing of the Philippine Sports Commission.

“Nagpapasalamat ako kay God na binigyan niya ako ng ganitong pagkakataon. First time na mag-Asian Para Games medal pagkatapos ng apat na kumpetiisyon. Wala na siguro akong masasabi pa,” said the delighted athlete of his unexpected silver in the event that he acknowledged was not his strong suit.

“Nagbunga ‘yung training namin ni coach Joel (Deriada) and Bernard (Ebuen) kasi ang game ko talaga sa bandang dulo dahil basag ako talaga sa starting,” added the Tokyo Paralympic Games veteran, who dedicated his silver to cousin Handsome Magdiwang, who figured in an accident back home.

Jerrold Mangliwan

La Salle’s Quiambao, Ateneo’s Dela Rosa lead MVP race

Kevin Quiambao

KEVIN Quiambao of De La Salle University and Kacey dela Rosa of Ateneo de Manila University lead the MVP race in the UAAP Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments at the end of the first round, respectively.

Quiambao, last season’s Rookie of the Year, has amassed totals of 118 points, 67 rebounds, 36 assists, eight steals, and six blocks against 20 turnovers and one infraction (unsportsmanlike or technical foul) while leading the Green Archers to four wins.

With his im-

pressive performance in the first round, Quiambao has accumulated 84.715 statistical points (SP), securing his lead.

Malick Diouf from the University of the Philippines, the reigning MVP, is in second place with 78.413 SPs, primarily due to his league-leading average of 14.7 rebounds per game.

The top five is completed by La Salle’s Evan Nelle (74.167 SP), University of the East’s Rey Remogat (73.714), and Far Eastern University’s L-Jay Gonzales (66.429).

UE’s Precious Momowei, a top true freshman, is currently ranked ninth in the SP race with 62.413.

Momowei, a Senegalese big man,

graduated from Santo Tomas National High School.

On the women’s side, Dela Rosa, also last season’s top rookie, has accumulated totals of 127 points, 83 rebounds, 10 assists, 15 steals, and 17 blocks against 24 turnovers and two infractions, finishing the round with 85.0 SP. The 6-foot center has led the Blue Eagles to five wins.

FEU’s Josee Kaputu (81.1), UST’s Kent Pastrana (76.1), UP’s Favour Onoh (74.3), and Ateneo’s Junize Calago (72.0) complete the top five.

UP’s Louna Ozar, who is ranked 11th in the SP race with 61.4 SP, leads all freshmen in the competition so far.

Pirates edge Bombers, arrest 3-game slide

By Peter Atencio VINCE Cunanan carved out 20 points for the Lyceum Pirates, who needed an overtime period to quell the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers, 99-96, on Tuesday at the start of the second round of the 99th National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament at the FilOil-EcoOil Arena in San Juan.

Enoch Valdez added 14 with Patrick Montano for the Pirates, who wiggled their way out of a three-game losing skid, to grab second spot with a 6-3 mark. JRU slipped to 6-4.

Valdez’s triple and two charities in the last 16.9 seconds won the game for the Pirates, who are behind the solo-leading Mapua Cardinals (8-1) and the San Beda Red Lions (7-2).

Shaun Umali shot 13 points and his block

on JRU’s Marwin Dionisio at the buzzer of regulation sent the contest into an extra five minutes.

It was also Umali’s jumper with 48 ticks to go off Valdez’s pass which tied the count, 87all, allowing Lyceum to force an overtime.

Joshua Guiab topscored with 21 points for JRU, while JL de los Santos knocked in 14.

The scores: First Game LPU 99- Cunanan 20, Valdez 14, Montano 14, Umali 13, Barba 12, Bravo 10, Penafiel 5, Villegas 4, Omandac 3, Aviles 2, Culanay 2, Fuentes 0, Versoza 0.

JRU 96- Guiab 21, Miranda 19, Delos Santos 14, Argente 10, Sarmiento 8, Dionisio 6, Medina 6, Pabico 6, Sy 3, Arenal 2, dela Rosa 1, De Leon 0, Ramos 0, Mosqueda 0 Quarterscores: 28-23; 54-53; 71-72; 87-all (OT); 99-96

Lyceum’s Vince Cunanan makes his move.

PHILADELPHIA—The Texas Rangers booked their place in the World Series with a stunning 11-4 thrashing of the defending champion Houston Astros in Major League Baseball’s playoffs on Monday.

Adolis Garcia blasted two home runs, with Corey Seager and Nathaniel Lowe also grabbing homers as Texas romped to a victory that completed its 4-3 American League Championship Series win.

The result means Texas will advance to the World Series for the first time since losing back-to-back appearances in the Fall Classic in 2010 and 2011.

The Rangers are one of six MLB teams never to win the World Series—but are now set to believe anything is possible after demolishing the Astros in ruthless fashion.

Houston had looked poised to return to the World Series for the fifth time since 2017 after overturning a 2-0 series deficit to lead 3-2 after game five last week.

But Texas squared the series with a 9-2 victory on Sunday and then cut loose once more on Monday at Houston’s Minute Maid Park, leaving home fans stunned.

Rangers star Seager said Texas had never doubted their ability to win the final two games of the series in Houston to advance.

“This team’s tough,” Seager said.

“We were never out of it. We knew what we had in front of us and we took the opportunity.”

Arizona sets up decider Texas will face either the Philadelphia Phillies or the Arizona Diamondbacks in game one of the World Series on Friday.

Arizona kept their National League Championship Series against Philadelphia alive earlier Monday after pitcher Merrill Kelly delivered a gem in a 5-1 victory to force a winnertake-all game seven.

Arizona right-hander Kelly struck out eight batters for just one run from a Phillies line-up that had not lost at home all postseason before Monday’s defeat at Citizens Bank Park. AFP

No. 1 pick Holt fitting in seamlessly with Dyip

By Peter Atencio STEPHEN Holt is getting along well with his new Terrafirma Dyip teammates, getting a good interaction with members of the team some two weeks before the start of the 48th Philippine Basketball Association Commissioners Cup. “The guys are focused on and off the floor. They’re working hard and I’m helping the guys in a positive way,” said the 31-year-old Holt, a Filipino-American guard, who recently signed a two-year deal with the Dyip.

Holt, who is the no. 1 overall pick of the Season 48 PBA Rookie Draft, talked about his aspirations during Tuesday’s PBA Media Day at the One Esplanade in Pasay City.

The Dyip are having an intense build-up for the coming season of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, which gets going on Nov. 5 at the Araneta Coliseum.

The 6’4” Holt brings with him a vast experience playing for Canton Charge in the NBA G League during the 2014-2015 season, along with stints with the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA Summer League.

“We talk about having a winning mentality, we talk about winning, and me making baskets,” added Holt, who has been playing for club teams in Australia and Europe for the last eight years.

Team skipper Isaac Go said that with Holt finally joining the squad in practice, they are finally getting on the same page with their goals for the season.

SPORTS

B2 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2023

Caidic named new PSL commissioner AFTER Marc Pinrgis and Leo Isaac, another former Philippine Basketball Association legend is set to take over the role as commissioner of the Pilipinas Super League.

‘The Trigger Man’ Allan Caidic has been handpicked by PSL president Cris Bautista, who formalized the appointment of the record-holder for most Allan Caidic number of three-point shots in a single game in the PBA. “He’s a man of integrity. If you take a look at the past commissioners of the PSL, from Marc Pingris to Leo Isaac to Allan Caidic, they’re not just former PBA stars, they’ve also never been involved in controversies,” said Bautista.

A member of the PBA’s 25 Greatest and 40 Greatest players, Caidic was also a five-time league champion, five-time scoring champion and for many years, held the record for the most number of three-point shots with

Nationals, Altas tangle in marquee volley game Games Wednesday

11 a.m. – Letran vs Santa Rosa 1 p.m. – National U vs Perpetual Help 3 p.m. – Cabstars-Cabuyao vs MKA San Beda 5 p.m. – Savouge-Basilan vs Bayleaf

STA. Elena-National University finally gets the chance to showcase its wares as it tangles with an equally tough Kinto Tyres-Perpetual Help in a clash of top collegiate squads in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference at the Paco Arena Wednesday.

Boasting of a potent crew made up of Joshua Retamar, Nico Almendras, Michaelo Buddi and Obed Mukaba, the Sta. Elena Nationals toughened up all the more with the entry of Jade Disquitado but they remain wary of the Altas, who will be led by reigning NCAA MVP Louie Ramirez.

Gametime is at 1 p.m. with the winner joining Pool A leaders Ateneo and Army.

Saints and Lattes-Letran and Santa Rosa City Lions kick off hostilities at 11 a.m. with the former to bank on Raxel Catris against the City Lions headed by the troika of Ish Polvorosa, Hero Austria and Ronniel Rosales in Pool A action.

MKA-San Beda, on the other hand, will take on Cabstars-Cabuyao at 3 p.m. in a Pool B duel while Savogue-RTU Basilan and Bayleaf Hotels-LPU wrap another heavy four-game bill in the tournament organized by Sports Vision at 5 p.m. in Pool D play.

Tipped to lead the Red Spikers’ charge are Van Book, Anrei Bakil and Kevin Montemayor while skillper Aljune Centeno will be the main man for Cabuyao.

Taking charge for the Golden Thunders is former UST star Lorenz Señoron, while Jun Edang will anchor the Pirates’ opening game bid in the tournament backed by Bola.TV, Beyond Active Wear, ASICS and Mikasa.

1,242, which was overtaken by Jimmy Alapag in 2016 (1,250).

Caidic, however, remains the record holder for most number of three-point shots in a single game with 17 and most points made by a local player (79).

The new season of the PSL begins on November 9 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum with nine teams already confirming participation.

Among the teams competing are Quezon Titans, San Juan Kings-Go For Gold, Davao Occidental Tigers-Cocolife, Royce Hotel and Casino, Manila City Stars, and V-Works Bagong Kalibo Ati-Atihan, Alpha Omega Kings, Makati Circus Music Festival, and Cainta NKT Sniper.

PSL is also about to wrap up its Under-21 Tournament as San Juan KingsGo For Gold and Ner Era Hunters vie for the best-of-three championship series beginning Thursday.

ALL SET FOR BIGGEST GOLF MEET. The world’s largest amateur tournament -- the Januarius Fil-Am Men’s Invitational

—just got bigger as it is expected to host more than 1,400 when it tees off with its 73rd edition next month in Baguio City, organizers announced late Monday in a press conference at the Camp John Hay Golf Club. The seniors’ competition starts on November 25, while the regular men’s play follows a week after. Present during the presser were JHI Chairman and CEO JJ Atencio, Fil-Am Men’s Invitational co-charimen Jude Eustaquio of CJHGC and Anthony de Leon of BCC and The Manor at Camp John Hay general manager Ramon Cabrera.

Antetokounmpo agrees to 3-year deal with Bucks

L

OS ANGELES—Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has agreed to a threeyear contract extension worth $186 million, multiple US media reports said on Monday.

The two-time NBA Most Valuable Player’s new deal will see him remain with the Bucks until at least the end of the 2026-2027 season.

Antetokounmpo’s new deal gives him an option to remain with the club in the 2027-2028 campaign, but he can enter free agency in July 2027, at the age of 32.

Antetokounmpo confirmed his contract extension in a post on social media without giving details of the new deal.

“MILWAUKEEEEEEEEE!!

Let’s

get it!!!!...#Extended,” Antetokounmpo wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

The Greek star has spent the entirety of his NBA career with Milwaukee since being drafted by the franchise in 2013 as the 15th overall pick.

The 28-year-old is regarded as one of the best players in basketball, guiding the Bucks to the NBA Finals in 2021.

As recently as the Bucks’ preseason media day earlier this month, Antetokounmpo said he was in no hurry to sign a contract extension before 2024

-- noting that he wanted to be certain the franchise remained committed to going for titles.

“I want to be a Milwaukee Buck for the rest of my career -- as long as we are winning. It’s as simple as that,” Antetokounmpo said on October 2.

His decision to extend now is effectively a vote of confidence in the Bucks front office, which scored the biggest deal of the offseason after successfully trading for Portland star Damian Lillard in September.

Antetokounmpo’s new deal runs through the duration of Lillard’s contract with the club.

The Bucks open their 2023-2024 season on Thursday when they host the Philadelphia 76ers. AFP

Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo

SM celebrates 65th anniversary with Super Fun Run

SM employees join the company’s Super Fun Run event at the Mall of Asia complex to celebrate SM’s 65th anniversary.

IN celebration of SM’s 65th anniversary, employees from the SM Group of Companies, including SM Investments Corporation, SM Retail, Inc. and its affiliates, SM Store, SM Markets, SM Prime Holdings, SM Development Corporation, and SM Supermalls joined the Super Fun Run held last October 22.

Over 13,000 employees consisting of around 6,895 employees from Metro Manila and 6,369 employees from the provinces simultaneously ran the 3K and the 6.5K distances at the Mall of Asia grounds and in 32 different venues nationwide including Pampanga, Bacolod, Cebu, and Davao to name a few.

“Along with our employees, this SM Super Fun Run is a commemorative event to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the company. This event also brought the SM employees closer together,” shared Regina Naguit, Senior Assistant Vice President for SM Retail and lead organizer of the Super Fun Run. The event, which was conducted in partnership with Runrio Events, Inc., also aimed to promote a fun and healthy lifestyle among SM employees and their families.

Co Fitness: New high-end gym in Metro Manila IN the heart of Metro Manila, Co on the horizon. The newest fitness Fitness, a new high-end gym that brand, now opened its doors last Ocis poised to revolutionize fitness, is tober 20, ushering in a new era of

State-of-the-art gym Co Fitness

premium fitness experiences.

With a commitment to excellence, Co Fitness seamlessly combines luxury and comfort to create the ideal workout environment, catering to individuals of all fitness levels.

As the latest addition to Makati’s fitness landscape, Co Fitness is set to redefine what it means to be a high-end gym. The aim is to transcend the ordinary and set the stage for an extraordinary wellness journey.

For those quick to join as founding members, exclusive benefits await.

The first 100 individuals to sign up will gain access to limited classes and enjoy special perks, including exclusive Co Fitness Merchandise.

At Co Fitness, it’s not just about catering to your fitness desires; it’s about understanding and honouring your body’s unique needs. The focus is on 1x1 personal training that takes a holistic approach, going beyond surfacelevel goals.

To elevate your workouts, Co Fitness has partnered with Technogym, a global leader in overall wellness. Their state-of-the-art equipment combines cutting-edge technology with ergonomic principles to provide precise and efficient training experiences.

Co Fitness has also collaborated with top-of-the-line endurance training machines to push boundaries and unlock your full potential. The variety of equipment is meticulously designed to mirror real-life movements, making your workouts dynamic and functional.

In pursuit of scientific precision, Co Fitness has partnered with the premier line of awardwinning BIA Body Composition Analyzers.

Certified Trainers will use this data to craft programs that align perfectly with your body’s unique requirements.

For group fitness enthusiasts, Co Fit-

ness offers a wide range of Les Mills classes.

Regardless of exercise style or intensity, all Les Mills classes share a common goal: bringing people together to harness the power of group fitness and collective determination.

Co Fitness has developed a proprietary smart fitness app that connects you to workout equipment, allowing you to track your fitness data. The app also makes it effortless to book your favorite group classes, whether it’s cardio, boxing, yoga, or other styles.

Additionally, the app offers access to thousands of professional fitness videos, enabling you to engage in diverse workouts anytime, anywhere, enriching your health journey.

Say farewell to traditional access cards and keys. Co Fitness introduces a convenient wearable access band, providing seamless entry to the gym and secure access to your locker.

ENTERTAINMENT

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2023

B3

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

Francine Diaz’s

scented success story

O Francine treats her fans with her ‘If It's Love That You Want’ dance performance on stage

Bench Scents launching is attended by Francine’s supportive fans

N A Friday afternoon at the activity center of Trinoma Mall, fans, predominantly teenagers, eagerly awaited the arrival of Francine Diaz Diaz.

When the 19-year-old actress stepped onto the stage, a collective burst of screams and adoration filled the air. Francine was a vision of teen sweet sophistication in a shimmering strapless white top adorned with delicate white flower accents and bell-bottom jeans.

As she swayed to the viral Rihanna hit, “If It’s Diaz hopes that her Love That You Want,” the crowd was entranced. fragrances will bring joy and With every graceful movement, she seemed to confidence to the people who channel the song’s rhythm and energy. wear them. She also wants to The event, graced by Bench’s top executives, encourage people to pursue their marked the grand unveiling of two fragrances dreams, no matter how difficult passionately promoted by Francine. they may seem.

The teen actress has always loved fragrances, Her launch of Bench Scents and she is excited to finally have her own scents. is also a notable achievement. It She worked closely with Bench to develop two is rare for a young celebrity to fragrances that reflect her personality: “Spring have their own fragrance line, Day” is a fresh and floral scent, while “Royal Kapamilya actress Francine Diaz and it shows that Francine is Dream” is a more sophisticated and elegant scent. taking her career seriously.

From teen idol to variety show host Francine began her career as a child actress, appearing in various television shows and films. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the hit ABS-CBN series Kadenang Ginto.

Just recently, Francine was selected to be one of the cohosts of the noontime show It’s Your Lucky Day. She was initially hesitant to accept the role, but she was eventually convinced by her fans and the show’s producers.

Her hosting stint was short-lived, but it was a valuable experience for her. She learned a lot about hosting and enjoyed connecting with the audience. She is also grateful for the opportunity to have worked with such talented cohosts and crew members.

“It was a learning experience for me. Every episode thought me many different things and I hope I can use them to n my next projects,” she said.

One of the most rewarding aspects of hosting the show for Francine was getting to hear the stories of the contestants. She was inspired by their resilience and determination, and she learned to appreciate her own blessings more deeply.

Francine (left) and BENCH CEO Ben Chan

Super Radyo, Barangay LS rule Mega Manila list GMA Network’s flagship radio stations remain the top choice of Mega Manila listeners.

Data from Nielsen’s Radio Audience Measurement (RAM) show that from January to September 2023, Super Radyo DZBB 594 and Barangay LS 97.1 Forever! dominated the airwaves on AM and FM, respectively.

Super Radyo DZBB 594 drew a total audience share of 31.66 percent, ahead of its closest competitor DZRH, which got 28.75 percent.

Barangay LS 97.1 remains on the number one spot among FM stations, averaging a total audience share of 41.37 percent during the same period, taking the lead against its nearest competition, Love Radio with 15.68 percent.

For September alone, both DZBB and Barangay LS 97.1 remained the top choice of Mega Manila listeners.

DZBB garnered a total audience share of 35 percent against DZRH’s 23.9.

Listeners of Barangay LS 97.1 kept the FM station in the lead with a total audience share of 36.8 percent over Love Radio 90.7’s 16.2 percent.

DZBB, GMA’s flagship AM radio

station, remains the highest-rating continues to be popular with listeners, station in the morning daypart with with programs such as Barangay programs such as Saksi sa Dobol B, Love Stories, Talk to Papa, Forever Super Balita sa Umaga Nationwide, Request, and Song Book. Barangay Melo Del Prado sa Super Radyo, Love Stories has also expanded to Buena Manong Balita, Executive Spotify, with its podcast ranking Summary, Pinoy MD, and Dobol number 1 in the Philippines’ Spotify Weng sa Dobol B. Podcast Charts as of October 9.

The station has further strengthened GMA’s Barangay FM 93.5 its programming line-up with the Dagupan, likewise launch of three new dominated the Key Cities shows: Markado a n c h o r e d in Q3, by Mark landing Makalalad the top and airs s p o t weekdays at among 3:00 a.m. and 2 0 Saturdays at 4:00 stations with Bangon Na 44.5 percent total a.m.; audience share.

Bayan,, a news and Barangay LS 97.1 Forever! is the home commentary program of radio programs ‘Barangay Love Stories’, DZBB’s radio anchored by Melo personalities ‘Talk to Papa’, ‘Forever Request’, Del Prado and Joel have also been and ‘Song Book. Barangay Love Stories’ Reyes Zobel which recognized for airs weekdays at 6:30 a.m.; and their work. DZBB’s Henry Atuelan Hataw Sa Hapon anchored by Rene and Glen Juego (Riding-in-TandemSta. Cruz which airs weekdays at sa-Balita), Rene Sta. Cruz (Big 2:00 p.m.

Time Balita), and Rod Vega (DZBB On FM, Barangay LS 97.1 Forever! Weekend Roundup) were awardees at

Sony’s ‘Spider-Man 2’ videogame sets record sales MARVEL’S Spider-Man 2 videogame was snapped up so fast that it set a record for PlayStation Studios, Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) said Monday.

The title, developed in collaboration with Insomniac Games, became the fastest selling PlayStation Studios game in the 24 hours after its release on Friday, with more than 2.5 million copies bought, according to SIE. “I want to say thank you to the fans,” SIE global marketing vice president Eric Lempel said in a release.

“With an epic storyline, two playable superheroes, a visually-stunning Marvel’s New York, and so much more, this is a game you can get lost in for hours.”

Spider-Man emerged as a superhero in the Marvel comics of the early 1960s and first appeared in video games in the 1990s, but without major success.

Blockbuster superhero movies in the 2000s led to the character headlining a series of games developed

from 2018 by Insomniac for Sony, which bought the studio the following year.

Sony spent heavily developing Marvel’s SpiderMan 2,, its graphics pushing

Marvel's ‘SpiderMan 2’ videogame becomes the fastestselling PlayStation Studios game in the 24 hours

the 25th anniversary of the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC).

Meanwhile at the 11th Makatao Awards of the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP), Arnold Clavio and Connie Sison were recognized as Best Radio Public Affairs Program for their show One on One: Walang Personalan while Dobol Weng sa Dobol B was named Best Radio Public Affairs Program.

Joey Reyes Zobel and Melo Del Prado completed the awards by winning Best News Program Hosts.

Broadcast journalist and radio host Mike Enriquez also received posthumous honors from the two organizations.

Tune in to Super Radyo DZBB 594 kHz and Barangay LS 97.1 Forever!

Mondays to Sundays. Select DZBB programs are also simulcast via Dobol B TV on GTV and on Pinoy Hits. Global Pinoys can stay updated via the international channel, GMA News TV. Live audio streaming is also available for online listeners on www. gmanetwork.com/radio.

the PlayStation 5’s technical capacities to the max to battle Kraven the Hunter and other villains.

Spider-Man can be played in the “skin” of the original Peter Parker or in the guise of the HispanicAfrican-American teenager Miles Morales created in 2011.

“We are thrilled with how our characters are represented and the powerful, meaningful, new stories that emerge from their depictions in game,” Marvel Games head Jay Ong said in a release. AFP

Hosted by content producer Dan Capucion, ‘Love Letters’ is set to feature heartwarming stories from letter-senders

Youthful hearts share love stories in new dramaadvice program STORIES from the hearts of today’s young generation will be tacked in the new drama-advice program Love Letters hosted

by Kapamilya digital content producer Dan Capucion and will exclusively stream on YouTube beginning October 27 at 7:00 p.m.

The latest drama production will feature heartwarming stories from letter-senders that will bring inspiration and guide viewers in their respective love problems. It will be produced by MOR Entertainment, the same team behind ABS-CBN’s popular podcasts on Spotify such as Dear MOR, together with ABSCBN Music.

A longtime Dear MOR “dramatista,” Dan exudes a pleasant, cool ‘tito’ vibe that will endear him to the Gen Z’s and the young-at-heart.

He is one of the industry’s most soughtafter voice actors, having voiced numerous lead characters in various Asianovelas as well as being cast as a lead voice actor for Tagalized Hollywood movies.

New episodes of Love Letters will be streaming on ABS-CBN Star Music and MOR Entertainment YouTube channels every Friday.

LIFE

B4 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2023 Nickie Wang, Editor Angelica Villanueva , Writer E-mail: lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

Showcasing the marvels of AI in art AT THE recent G Creator Night, Globe presented a remarkable fusion of art and technology, offering the Filipino art and creative community an enchanting encounter with the possibilities of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at The Wisdom of Da Vinci exhibition.

The event held at One Bonifacio High Street in Bonifacio Global City shattered preconceived notions about AI’s place in the creative realm.

The exhibition transcended mere algorithms and code to become an immersive journey into the psyche of Leonardo Da Vinci, one of history’s greatest minds. Attendees were transported into Da Vinci’s world, navigating interactive spaces that seamlessly blended the past with the present.

Mesmerizing

stroboscopic effects, innovative QR code activations, and a captivating 360-degree soundscape paid homage to the maestro’s unparalleled creativity, providing a fresh perspective on his timeless masterpieces.

The exhibition was divided into two chapters: “Poetic AI,” which explored the lyrical beauty of AI, and “Da Vinci & The Masters,” a tribute to the genius of Da Vinci and his contemporaries.

The event drew an impressive gathering of Filipino artists and creators, including TRNZ, Is Jumalon, BITTO, and the dynamic duo of Patrick and Sam Cabral. Creators Marvin and Sara Conanan of Purveyr, John Deseo, and community builder Martin Eusebio, along with gallerists Raymond Ty and Kassy Lei

of Art ToyPH, Inas Amoyo of Vinyl on Vinyl, and representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Design Center, Quennie Agabriel and Ken Bunias, were also in attendance.

Anne Calma, Head of Subcultures at Globe, expressed her excitement, saying, “It’s truly exhilarating to witness the creative community’s journey into the realm of AI. At Globe, we’re committed to bridging the gap between creativity and technology. Our aim is to harness the strengths of both to Artists and creators immerse themselves in a night of creativity create a world where art and innovation and AI-appreciating artwork from OUCHHH Studios coexist harmoniously.”

As the lines between the digital and the real continue to blur, events like G roles in shaping the future of creativity, is extended until December 10 at the 3rd Creator Night emphasize the symbiotic ushering in a new era of artistic floor of One Bonifacio High Street in relationship between humanity and expression and impact.

BGC, Taguig City. Get your tickets at The Wisdom of Da Vinci exhibition https://bgcimmersive.com/. technology, where both have pivotal

Virgin Labfest’s writing fellowship program expands to the regions

UST six weeks to go until the Virgin Labfest premieres in the Visayas region. This is the second time that the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) will bring its largest festival of untried, untested, and un-staged one-act plays to the regions. An Extra VLF, as we call it.

J

Contemporary artist Joemarie Sanclaria

Emerging art sensation Joemarie Sanclaria shines with ‘Flurries’series THE art world is abuzz with the emergence of a young breakout star, Joemarie Sanclaria, whose recent exhibition at SM Aura in Manila has captivated art enthusiasts. Sanclaria’s paintings, each measuring 4 feet by 3 feet and priced at six figures, have garnered widespread acclaim.

At the heart of his artistic expression is the signature series titled Flurries, created using a blend of oil and acrylic.

These works of art depict a vision of the contemporary Filipina, symbolizing female strength and resilience.

The central figure, often adorned in a stylized baro’t saya, skillfully holds a circular winnowing basket, alluding to the act of sifting rice. This symbolic act magnifies the precious grain, highlighting the resilience of Filipino women, especially working mothers. In some compositions, the Filipina cradles a child while engaged in this significant task, all set against picturesque backgrounds of rural scenes or mountain-to-sea vistas.

For Sanclaria, the Flurries series is an ode to strong women and a nod to his own mother, Medy. His artistic journey began as a child, finding solace in the vibrant colors his mother provided to soothe his youthful tears. He discovered his talent early, winning national competitions during his high school years and subsequently exploring the visual arts, influenced by his mentor, Homer Fernandez.

The Flurries series, rich with symbolic depth and personal growth, represents a catharsis for the artist, helping him overcome the challenges of his past. Sanclaria describes the

process of creating these paintings as transformative, feeling the touch of fairies and divine guidance. The intricate dance of flurries in the serene rice fields symbolizes the release of emotions, thoughts, and burdens, ultimately leading to inner peace and wisdom.

Influenced by renowned artists and mentors, including Maestro Romulo Galicano and Fernando Sena, Sanclaria has honed his skills and developed a deep appreciation for the qualities of light. His work draws inspiration from the cultural heritage of the Philippines and Asia. He believes in the dynamic power of color to influence emotions and connect with viewers.

Sanclaria’s art resonates with those who gaze upon it, evoking a sense of pride in Filipina strength and empowerment. Collectors praise his work, describing him as a master of his craft and a legend in his field.

At 36, Sanclaria continues to grow as an artist, exploring both abstraction and realism. He has exhibited in over 200 group shows worldwide and aspires to hold a solo exhibition on the international stage. His goal is to create larger-than-life paintings that resonate with his inner self and explore the enchantment of light, inviting the audience to perceive a world teeming with love, hope, mystery, and beauty.

Sanclaria’s artistic journey mirrors his theme of “Love and Hope.” He once paused his art for a year to care for his ailing younger brother. Recently, he resumed painting and concluded a highly successful first solo show, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Sanclaria uses a blend of oil and acrylic in his works of art to depict the strength and resilience of a contemporary Filipina

The first one was held in Cagayan de Oro, dubbed “Unang Puga,” featuring nine plays written, directed and performed by Mindanaoan playwrights, directors, performers, and cast. This year, catch VLF Visayas Lab-as, with plays written and directed

by Visayan playwrights and directors, performed by local talents.

Aside from the performances, the CCP takes its two-week mentorship program on the study and practice of dramatic writing for the stage, dubbed the Virgin Labfest (VLF) Writing Fellowship Program, to the Visayas region this November.

For several years, the CCP has hosted the VLF Writing Fellowship Program as part of its mission to nurture emerging playwrights who support artistic and cultural endeavors. In the previous year, in collaboration with The Performance Laboratory, Inc. and the Negros Museum, the CCP extended this program to the Visayas region. The goal was to train young Filipino playwrights and provide them with opportunities to explore the possibilities of pursuing a professional career in the arts.

This initiative aligns with the CCP’s commitment to expanding artistic opportunities and creative collaborations for all Filipinos, particularly the youth and reaching out to regional communities. While the program follows the basic curriculum of the VLF Writing Fellowship Program in Manila, it is tailored to the cultural context of the Visayas region to better reflect the voices and experiences of the participants.

In

its second year, the regional leg of the VLF Writing Cultural Center of the Philippines brings back Fellowship Program, the Virgin Labfest featuring nine plays written, in partnership with The directed, and performed by Mindanaoan artists Performance Laboratory, Inc., will be held online and on-site at the Negros Labfest, co-produced by the CCP, Museum in Bacolod City, Negros Tanghalang Pilipino, and the Writer’s Occidental, from November 7 to 18.

Bloc. This renowned theater festival is Eight new fellows from various known for producing innovative and regions will join the program, guided outstanding ‘virgin’ plays, many of by renowned playwright Glenn Sevilla which have received recognition from Mas. They will have the opportunity to the Palanca Awards for Literature. immerse themselves in Virgin Labfest *** Visayas’s Lab-as, which is the regional Meanwhile, the CCP and counterpart of CCP’s largest theater Cinemalaya Foundation Inc. are festival, showcasing untried, untested, gearing up for the 2025 edition by and unstaged one-act plays. announcing a call for entries in the fullDuring the two-week mentorship, the length feature competition category. fellows will attend lectures, participate Following the successful 19th in script critiques, engage in writing edition, the Cinemalaya Philippine sessions, and interact with established Independent Film Festival is accepting playwrights, directors, and actors. submissions until November 17.

The program will culminate with a In its 20th year, this leading staged reading of the fellows’ works on independent film festival remains November 18 at 5:00 p.m., also at the committed to fostering innovative Negros Museum. filmmaking and supporting aspiring Organized by the CCP Artist independent filmmakers looking Training Division, the VLF Writing to leave their mark on the industry Fellowship Program is an integral in 2025.

Read full story on educational component of the Virgin manilastandard.net

Experience theater magic with ‘Silver Lining’

Ricky Davao (left) and Albert Silos play the older and younger versions of Leo in the 'Silver Lining' musical play

EVERY great musical has a compelling storyline at its heart. The performers, creative team and the audience are enjoined “in the moment” of theatre magic.

Rockitwell Studios and MusicArtes Inc., passionately committed to nurturing Filipino music and talent and creating this magic, are thrilled to launch a brand new Filipino musical, Silver Lining Lining, this October at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza.

An original work with modern rock and pop music, Silver Lining is a journey of rediscovery in two timelines, reliving the challenging times of the ‘70s as well as understanding the struggles and conflicts of

today’s youth with mirthful moments and drama.

The music is about this generation’s experiences, falling in love, brotherhood among friends, of seeing the silver lining amidst the difficulties of surviving — a story of resolution, hope and redemption.

Maribel Legarda of PETA’s hit long-running musical Rak of Aegis directs Silver Lining with script by Palancaawardee Joshua Lim So, lyrics and music by Jack Teotico, with additional music, lyrics and musical direction by Vince Lim, and choreography by PJ Rebullida.

Ricky Davao leads a full cast of seasoned and emergent artists like Noel Comia Jr. and Krystal Brimner of Star Magic.

Silver Lining opened on October 20, with a limited run on October 21, 22, 27, 28 and 29. Tickets are now available at Ticket2Me.net or bit.ly/ silverliningmusical.