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MMDA TO LIFT CODING WINDOW DURING HOLIDAYS

SSS: MEMBERS’ FUNERAL BENEFITS INCREASED TO P60K

NEWS / A3

NEWS / A3 VOL. XXXVII • NO. 253 • 2 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2023 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

More areas in ‘red’ poll list

Comelec says 361 areas of concern may rise ahead of Oct. 30 BSKE

By Vito Barcelo, Joel E. Zurbano and Macon Ramos-Araneta

T

HE Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Wednesday said more areas could be placed under its “red category” amid rising electionrelated violence across the country ahead of the Oct. 30 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).

Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia said the number of areas under this category has risen to 361, with the addition of 119 areas, mostly from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

With five deaths reported this week, Garcia said the number of areas under its red category could still go up to prevent further bloodshed before the Oct. 30 BKSE. “Historically, barangay elections have been more problematic in terms Next page

FINAL CHECK. A personnel of the

Commission on Elections conducts a final testing and sealing of the vote-counting machines (VCMs) that will be used for the Oct. 30 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections at Pasong Tamo Elementary School in Quezon City on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. Manny Palmero

AFP eyes joint resupply missions with allies amid tensions in WPS

By Vince Lopez THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday said it was exploring possible joint resupply missions with other countries in the West Philippine Sea following a diplomatic row with China over two collisions in the area.

On Sunday, Chinese coast guard and militia ships tried to block Philippine resupply vessels on their way to Ayungin Shoal, resulting in collisions that damaged BRP Cabra and civilian ship Unaizah May 2.

“We’re still studying that, it’s another option,” AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. said

Next page

FOR THE DEARLY DEPARTED.

A man cleans the tomb of departed loved ones at the Manila North Cemetery on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023, ahead of All Saints’ Day on Nov. 1.

Danny Pata

Lakas-CMD condemns China’s aggressive acts

By Maricel V. Cruz THE Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) political party of Speaker Martin Romualdez has condemned in “the strongest possible terms” the latest aggressive actions of China in the West Philippine Sea. “We, the members of the Lakas-

Next page

PH drops China funding for Mindanao railway

By Darwin G. Amojelar

jing’s interest in the project has waned.

In a letter to the Chinese Embassy, THE Philippines will no longer pursue the Department of Finance (DOF) Chinese financing for a major railway said the Philippines “is no longer inline in Mindanao after learning that Bei- clined to pursue the Chinese ODA

(official development assistance) financing for the Mindanao Railway Project Phase 1- Tagum-Davao-Digos Segment (MRP-TDDS).”

Next page

Humanitarian ‘pause’ in Gaza fighting sought A UN agency warned dwindling fuel supplies could force it to stop aid operations in war-riven Gaza on Wednesday, as calls mounted for a humanitarian “pause” in fighting.

After 18 days of withering Israeli air strikes and a near-total land, sea and air blockade of the Palestinian territory, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) warned operations were at breaking point.

“If we do not get fuel urgently, we will be forced to halt our operations in the Gaza Strip,” said the UN agency, which provides aid to 600,000 displaced Gazans.

In Manila, the Department of Foreign Affairs backed the call of UN Next page

THE COST OF WAR. The father (right) of Amal al-Bayyouk, a one-year-old Palestinian child who was killed during an Israeli bombardment, holds her body before her funeral outside the morgue at Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on Oct. 25, 2023, amid the ongoing battles between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas. AFP

President: More needs to be done to fix agri system

By Charles Dantes and Maricel the Department of Agriculture (DA), fishery sector, which has been lagging made the remarks during the com- for decades.

Cruz memoration of the 70th anniversary of “This is a huge task. That’s why we PRESIDENT Marcos on Wednesday the Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) in need your help. The government can’t do it alone, so we need your help. We admitted there is still a lot to be done to Quezon City.

He underscored the need to develop need your hard work and advice be“fix” the country’s agriculture system.

Next page Mr. Marcos, who is also the head of and modernize the Philippines’ agri-

Castro told: Don’t be onion-skinned

By Maricel V. Cruz

not be onion-skinned.

The Davao City solon also threatAFTER his father allegedly threat- ened to spill the beans on Makabayan ened a party-list legislator with Bloc legislators in the House of Repphysical harm, Rep. Paolo Duterte on resentatives.

Next page Wednesday said lawmakers should

NEWS

A2 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2023 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

PH asked: Probe ‘war crimes’

By Rey Requejo

F

IVE Myanmar nationals asked the Philippines on Wednesday to investigate alleged war crimes committed by 10 serving or former members of Myanmar’s military against the mainly Christian Chin minority.

Filipino lawyers representing the Myanmar nationals told reporters they lodged the “landmark” criminal complaint against junta chief Min Aung Hlaing and nine others at the Department of Justice in Manila.

They asked prosecutors to open an investigation into alleged war crimes under a Philippine law penalizing “crimes against international humanitarian law, genocide, and other crimes against humanity.”

Justice Secretary Jesus Remulla said the DOJ will evaluate the complaint filed.

“If the complaint has been found to be sufficient in form and substance, only then the respondents would be asked to answer the allegations made against them,” Remulla said in an interview.

The five Myanmar nationals are from western Chin state, but now live in Australia, Britain, Canada and India.

“This is a landmark suit because this is the very first time that such a case is being brought before the Philippines,” Romel Bagares, one of the lawyers, told reporters.

Among the accused is Chin Chief Minister Vung Suan Thang, who is a former military officer. The others are serving members of the military.

The complaint alleged that members of Myanmar’s military killed a pastor and two church elders in Thantlang town in September 2021.

It also accused the 10 of “intentionally” directing attacks on churches and the burning of hundreds of houses

Humanitarian...

From A1

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From A1

Secretary General Antonio Guterres for the immediate cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hamas as the number of civilian casualties continues to increase.

“We join the call of the UN Secretary General, hopefully, for a cessation of hostilities or for non-targeting as much as possible of civilians,” DFA Undersecretary Eduardo Jose de Vega said.

However, De Vega clarified the Philippines is not turning its back on the statement of President Marcos expressing support for Israel’s right to self-defense after Hamas launched a surprise assault on the Jewish state on Oct. 7.

“I would like also to clarify that the words we indicate are not to be interpreted to mean that we have turned back on the words of the President regarding our support for the Israelis and the Israeli right of self-defense,” he said.

Guteres earlier called for a humanitarian ceasefire as he made a remark before the UN Security Council.

While he called Hamas’ attacks as “appalling,” Guterres said those did not justify the “collective punishment” that civilians experience in Hamas-controlled Palestinian territory of Gaza.

Meanwhile, the number of Filipinos seeking repatriation from Gaza and other neighboring territories and countries has risen.

Four Filipinos in the West Bank, another Palestinian territory, already signified their intention to leave although it is not directly affected by the Israel-Hamas war, De Vega said.

Those in Gaza remain trapped as its border with Egypt remains closed, he said.

At least 113 of the 17,000 Filipinos in Lebanon also sought repatriation in fear of possible escalation of tension between Israel and Hezbollah fighters, De Vega said.

Israel launched its assault on Gaza in response to an unprecedented cross-border attack by Hamas militants on Oct. 7. AFP

of peace and order compared to regular local and national elections,” Garcia said.

Garcia said the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) were conducting patrols and inspections in critical areas to avoid fighting among candidates.

“Our police and military personnel will go down to the barangay to ensure that it will be peaceful,” he said.

The latest election-related violence incidents were the killing of two candidates for village council and a supporter in Barangay Rosary Heights 12 in Cotabato City on Monday.

A report from Lt Col. Carmelo Mungkas identified the fatalities as Nur-Moqtadin Butucan, a candidate for village council in Barangay Rosary Heights (RH) 12; Alfar Singh Ayunan Pasawilan, a candidate for village councilman in Barangay Kalanganan 2; and supporter Faizal Abas, also of Barangay Kalanganan 2.

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 killed while incumbent barangay chairperson

Castro...

From A1 Duterte made the warning in reaction to the filing of grave threat charges against his father, former president Rodrigo Duterte.

He also appealed to the left-leaning group to “stop the drama.”

“As a congressman myself, I also know a lot of things about these leftleaning representatives. And so I ask them to stop the drama and stop going to the media,” Duterte said, adding that he thinks his father is getting the short end in this issue.

“We all have the right to file a complaint against anyone in court. But public servants should not be onionskinned and should not make use of this right as a tool to silence critics,” Duterte said.

For her part, House Deputy Minority leader and ACT Teacher’s Rep. France Castro cried foul over Rep. Duterte’s remarks. “Why am I being portrayed as the villain when it is I who was threatened with death?”

Lakas-CMD...

From A1 Christian Muslim Democrats (LakasCMD), condemn in the strongest possible terms the illegal and blatant actions of the China Coast Guard and the Chinese maritime militia last Oct. 22, 2023, in the waters near the vicinity of the Ayungin Shoal,” the political party said in a statement Wednesday.

A Chinese Coast Guard vessel hit a Philippine Navy-contracted boat ferrying supplies to BRP Sierra Madre while another vessel of the Chinese maritime militia also bumped the Philippine Coast Guard ship BRP Cabra.

“Said actions seriously endangered the lives and safety of Filipinos on board said vessels. The illegal and dangerous maneuvers of the Chinese ves-

AFP eyes...

From A1 in the Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum, when asked about joint resupply missions with allies.

Brawner said authorities were also considering using a Philippine Navy vessel for the resupply missions. Navy vessels are better equipped for such operations, he said.

The AFP chief also said that the resupply missions should continue as ordered by President Marcos.

“We will admit, we’re worried, but as mentioned by [Defense Secretary] Gibo Teodoro, the AFP is willing to defend our territory. We are one of the most experienced armed forces in the world,” he said.

In 2016, the Philippines won its case against China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, which invalidated Beijing’s sweeping claims in the South China Sea.

SEEKING JUSTICE. A Myanmar national reacts during a press conference after filing

a criminal complaint before the Department of Justice in Manila on Oct. 25, 2023. Five Myanmar nationals asked the DOJ to investigate alleged war crimes committed by 10 serving or former members of Myanmar’s military against the mainly Christian Chin minority. AFP

in the same town between August supplies reaching people in Chin 2021 and June 2022. state in the aftermath of Cyclone MoThey also allegedly blocked relief cha in May. With AFP

PH...

From A1 Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said his department is in talks with other foreign donors for the Mindanao Railway Project after the government decided not to pursue funding from the Chinese government.

“That’s probably gone,” Bautista said in Filipino, referring to Chinese funding. “ We’re talking to other possible ODA partners [to fund the project].”

The P83-billion Mindanao Railway Project: Tagum-Davao-Digos segment of the Mindanao Railway, is expected to reduce travel time from Tagum City, Davao del Norte to Digos City, Davao del Sur from 3.5 hours to 1.3 hours once it starts operations.

A Chinese senior official had earlier expressed concern regarding “geopolitical factors” as the reason for the lack of progress in infrastructure projects with Beijing.

The other Chinese-funded projects that have yet to be implemented are the P142 billion Philippine National Railways South Long Haul Project and the P 51 billion Subic-Clark Railway Project.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) signed a P142 billion contract with Chinese companies to build the first 380 kilometers of the Philippine National Railway Bicol Project from Banlic, Calamba to Daraga, Albay in January 2022.

Former Transportation secretary Arthur Tugade signed the designbuild contract with the joint venture of China Railway Group Ltd., China Railway No. 3 Engineering Group Co. Ltd. and China Railway Engineering Consulting Group Co. Ltd. The agreement covered the design, construction and electromechanical works of the project.

The first 380 kilometers of PNR Bicol from Banlic, Calamba to Daraga, Albay will span 39 cities and municipalities, four provinces and two regions. It will involve the construction of 23 stations, 230 bridges, 10 passenger tunnels and a 70-hectare depot in San Pablo, Laguna.

Joseph Martines was wounded in Barangay Maingaran in Masbate City.

The Comelec said it will proceed the BSK elections as scheduled in the province of Negros Oriental, which has been placed under the Comelec Control.

The poll body ruled that there is no justifiable reason to postpone the 2023 BSKE in the province.

“The public does not support postponement, and the PNP and the AFP have expressed confidence in the peace and order situation in the area, citing no real threat to the safety, security and orderliness of the upcoming elections,” Garcia said.

Garcia said that an area can be put under Comelec control if there is a history of intense rivalry among contending parties. Such rivalries could motivate people to engage in violent acts and incidents of politically motivated violence involving candidates and supporters.

The Comelec will continue to monitor and evaluate the situation areas under its control and act accordingly based on reports on the ground.

The National Capital Region Police Office has deployed 300 men from the Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) to assist law enforcement in maintaining peace and order during the BSKE in the BARMM. The deployment of additional troops to BARMM was made following a recent shooting in Cotabato City, result-

ing in at least three fatalities, including BSKE candidates.

NCRPO director Brig. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the troops, who were transported to Awang Airport, Cotabato City, completed the Basic Internal Security Operations Course and underwent General Orientation and Special Electoral Board seminars.

The additional men will enforce election laws, assist election officials and staff, and provide security to polling and canvassing centers, and other convergence points.

At least 10 members of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal group joined the RMFB personnel on the mission.

Despite the recent shooting, poll officials said this year’s electionrelated violence remains the lowest in BSKE history.

Ahead of the elections on October 30, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian urged the Comelec, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the PNP to ensure that teachers on poll duty be fully protected.

He noted that teachers serve as front-liners in elections and may come under threat.

Five 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 Comelec to call for stricter measures against loose firearms.

sels clearly violated the international conventions on the prevention of collisions at seas,” the party said.

Romualdez, president of Lakas-CMD and Leyte’s 1st district representative, earlier denounced the intentional maneuvers of the Chinese vessels, saying “such actions not only jeopardized the lives of those onboard but also threatened regional peace and stability.”

For his part, Rep. Brian Yamsuan urged fellow lawmakers to support the approval of a measure that would delineate the Philippines’ archipelagic sea lanes as a means to bar the unauthorized passage of foreign vessels within the country’s territorial waters and airspace.

“We join Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez in strongly condemning China’s reckless and dangerous actions in the West Philippine Sea.

These acts pose a threat to regional peace and stability and are blatant violations of international law,” said Yamsuan, a member of the House Special Committee on the West Philippine Sea. “While China continues to disregard our freedom of navigation within our own exclusive economic zone (EEZ), we should act quickly to ensure that such actions do not embolden them to encroach on our territorial waters and conduct any kind of activity without the permission of our government,” he added.

Yamsuan said establishing the Philippines’ archipelagic sea lanes and implementing a Maritime Zones Act would strengthen the Philippines’ position with respect to obligating other countries to comply with the provisions of international law.

cause you are the ones facing the problems of agriculture that we are going through now.”

Mr. Marcos said the government has to assess the needs of Filipino farmers and fisherfolk to increase their yield and productivity and elevate their living conditions.

“Among the many endeavors that we are pursuing is the strengthening of the various associations and cooperatives so that they can provide business and investment opportunities to their beneficiaries,” he said.

He expressed optimism for the modernization of the agri-fisheries sector with a substantial budget of P85.88 billion this year and a proposed budget of P92.4 billion for 2024.

The DA has also allocated P4.73 billion for large-scale agriculture and fishery mechanization and modernization.

AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert T. Lee, meanwhile, said the support provided by the government for farmers should be insulated from politics.

“Government offers subsidies and other forms of aid to farmers. Congress allocates funds for these purposes. But it defeats the purpose because of so many requirements,” he said.

China however, continues to ignore that ruling.

Other claimants in the South China Sea include Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Taiwan.

Teodoro said they were taking steps to counter the “false narratives” spread

by Chinese propagandists.

“Disinformation and information operators are in the playbook of China.

We are countering the narratives by information operations such as this — me explaining to our countrymen why they should not believe in China’s narratives,” Teodoro said.

Chinese narrative is this is all a play by the United States and we are just marionettes, puppets… of the Americans, following their playbook,” he added.

These accusations are insulting to Filipinos, he said, because “it assumes we do not have the ability to think for ourselves and stand up for our own rights.”

The defense chief also said that swarming and other illegal activities in

the West Philippine Sea are part of China’s plans to occupy the whole South China Sea. The Philippines, meanwhile, is just defending its right under international law, he added.

“This is an affront to our territorial integrity and is a ridiculous assertion of international law or revision of international law to suit their expansionist ends,” he said.

“They are also planting disinformation in the country in order to weaken the political will and unity of this country. So we need to be united here. Let’s not believe China’s disinformation,” he said.

A US State Department study says China is spending billions of dollars globally to spread disinformation and threatening to cause a “sharp contraction” in freedom of speech around the world.

The National Security Council (NSC), meanwhile, said it is monitoring some influencers and groups that it says tend to echo China’s sentiments on the

West Philippine Sea. NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya first talked about these groups in an interview with the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism, where he said there might be a Chinese information operation in the country.

He also noted how these people share videos from China, despite the existence of videos and accounts from members of the media who were onboard the BRP Cabra.

Meanwhile, four American lawmakers expressed support for the Philippine government following the incident near Ayungin Shoal.

House foreign affairs committee chairman Michael McCaul, ranking member Gregory Meeks, along with subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific chairwoman Young Kim and ranking member Ami Bera, issued the statement and called out China over what they called “maritime intimidation” in the South China Sea.

President:...

From A1

NEWS SSS: Members’ funeral benefits hiked to P60k

By Rio N. Araja THE Social Security System (SSS) on Wednesday announced an increase in the maximum amount of funeral benefits to P60,000.

On Oct. 20, the state pension fund started the implementation of the enhanced guidelines for its funeral benefit program.

“The new guidelines provided under SSS Circular 2023-009 aim to incentivize active membership by raising the maximum amount of funeral benefit to P60,000 and streamline the provision of funeral benefits to claimants, especially for surviving legal spouses,” SSS president and chief executive officer Rolando Ledesma Macasaet said.

Under the guidelines, claimants of deceased members with 36 or more monthly contributions may receive a variable amount from P20,000 to P60,000 in funeral benefits depending on the member’s number of paid contributions and average monthly salary credit.

The funeral benefit for members who paid at least one but less than 36 monthly contributions up to the month of death shall be a fixed amount of P12,000.

The enhanced funeral benefit shall cover embalming services, burial transfer services and permits, funeral services, including church fees or its equivalent in other religions), cremation or interment services, purchase or rent of coffin, purchase, or rent of niche/cemetery/memorial lot/columbarium, and memorial/funeral insurance plan.

The funeral expenses as indicated in the proof of payment, shall be reimbursed, but not to exceed the computed funeral benefit due.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2023

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mst.daydesk@gmail.com

MMDA eyes lifting number coding window period during the holidays

By Joel E. Zurbano

T

HE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) plans to remove the number coding scheme window period in the National Capital Region (NCR) to improve traffic during the holiday season.

MMDA chairman Romando Artes said clarified that although this was already by the Metro Manila Council (MMC), the date of implementation of the no window hour coding scheme is still yet to be determined.

“Based on the approved resolution, the number coding will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and there will be no window hours,”

MMDA chairman Romando Artes said.

He explained the new policy was among the solutions the agency and the MMC made to address issues during peak buying months, which are expected to be heavy in traffic.

The MMC, composed of the 17 mayors in Metro Manila, is the governing board and the policy-making

body of the MMDA. “We will assess first the situation of Metro Manila roads from Nov. 6 to 12, after the return of vacationers from the provinces for the Undas break. We expect 15 to 20% additional vehicle volume as the holiday nears, that’s the time we will decide whether or not to implement the 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. number coding scheme in Metro Manila.”

He stressed that the current number coding hours, which is 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., will still be observed.

Records showed that traffic volume along EDSA rises 15 to 20 percent between November and December.

The MMDA also announced that fines for the violation of exclusive EDSA Bus

Lane regulation will soon be increased as the agency noted private vehicles repeatedly disregarding the rules.

Artes said there are many errant drivers of private vehicles, motorcycle riders, and other motor vehicles who continually use the exclusive bus lane despite constant warnings and reminders.

The bus carousel lane is for the exclusive use of Public Utility Buses, ambulances, and marked government vehicles responding to emergencies.

“To serve as a deterrent, the MMDA, through the Metro Manila Council, decided to increase the prescribed fines and impose a corresponding suspension of driver’s license depending on the frequency of the offense,” he said.

Marcos stand on international probe on PH drug war ‘unchanged’

By Rey E. Requejo

MARIAN DEVOTEES. Devotees visit a Marian exhibit in Malabon City. The 10th Marian Exhibit 2023 held in the city is part of the ongoing celebrations of the Month of the Holy Rosary. Andrew Rabulan

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s stand against cooperating in the probe by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on illegal drug operations “remains unchanged,” Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said.

Guevarra made the comment in response to calls of the Makabayan bloc for the President to support the ICC investigation on violations committed during the war against illegal drugs under the administration of former President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

“The ICC prosecutor is free to pursue

his investigation any way he wants, but he cannot expect any cooperation from the Philippine government,” Guevarra said.

“As far as we are concerned, any and all complaints against the conduct of the war on drugs must be lodged before our own prosecutorial and judicial system,” he added.

Guevarra recalled that “the ICC Appeals Chamber failed to rule categorically on our jurisdictional challenge.”

“So we maintain our position that the ICC can no longer exercise jurisdiction over the Philippine situation long after our withdrawal from the ICC way back in 2019,” the chief state lawyer pointed out.

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OPINION

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2023

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

Early detection, timely diagnosis still best cancer cure, say experts EVERY October for the last 90 years, Breast Cancer Awareness has been celebrated and it is called “Pink October” as people round the world adopt the pink color and display a pink ribbon.

That is to raise awareness as regards the importance of prevention and routine screening for the early diagnosis of breast cancer, now seen by medical experts as the most commonly diagnosed cancer globally.

Experts say one in eight women are predicted to be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.

Others say every 50 seconds, somewhere in the world a woman dies from breast cancer, but stressed systematic improvements are needed in breast health promotion, early detection, timely diagnosis and treatment.

In 2020, there were an estimated 684,996 deaths from breast cancer, with a disproportionate number of these deaths occurring in low-resource settings.

According to cancer specialists, leading cancer sites or types are lung, breast, cervix, liver, colon and rectum, prostate, stomach, oral cavity, ovary and leukemia.

Cancer, a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body, is now the third leading cause of death nationwide Cancer is the second-leading cause of death worldwide after cardiovascular diseases which are heart and blood vessels diseases with considerable morbidity and mortality and presenting worldwide public health burden.

Globally, nearly 10 million people die from cancer every year, and, experts say, more than 40 percent of cancer-related death could be preventable as they are linked to modifiable risk factors such as smoking, alcohol use, poor diet and physical inactivity.

Worldwide, there were an estimated 18.1 million cases and 9.6 million cancer deaths in 2018 (including non-melanoma skin cancers), with one in four men and one in five women developing the disease, and one in eight men and one in eleven women dying from it.

According to experts, there were 43.8 million persons living with cancer in 2018 who were diagnosed within the last five years. Half of the new cancer cases and cancer deaths in the world occur in Asia.

Based on projected population aging and growth, the global burden of cancer is set to increase by more than 60 percent by 2040, from 18.1 million new cases in 2018 to a predicted 29.4 million cases in

the year 2040.

Figures from the Philippine Cancer Society show deaths in year 2010 in the different cancer types as: lung, 9,184; liver, 6,819; breast, 4,371; intestines, 3,060; leukemia, 2,609; stomach, 2,274; cervix, 1,984; brain, 1,855; prostate, 1,410; and pharynx, 1,326.

In the United States alone, an estimated 1,958,310 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in 2023 and 609,820 people will die from the disease.

Cancer, a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body, is now the third leading cause of death nationwide, with lung cancer ranking number one in mortality.

Dr. Rosario Pitargue, Philippine Society of Medical Oncology president, noted there are 184 cases diagnosed in 100,000 patients and that 96 deaths related to cancer are reported daily.

Breast, colon and pancreatic cancer rates are increasing at concerning rates among America’s young adults, according to a new study.

Breast cancer, which experts say should be diagnosed at an early stage, is the most common cancer worldwide and the leading cause of cancer deaths among women.

The goal: reduce breast cancer mortality by 2.5 percent per year.

Experts add over a 20-year period this could save 2.5 million lives.

Since the 1980s, there has been a 40 percent reduction in breast cancer mortality in high-income countries. This has yet to be achieved in the majority of low- and middle-income countries.

This month, employees of a government news organization have been assigned dates within which to have an appointment with doctors at the Philippine Cancer Society – for detection of prostate and breast cancer.

And this is particularly important for those who have a highly processed diet, smokers, compulsive drinkers and journalists who have a sedentary lifestyle in an eminently stress-filled newsroom.

The first batch of employees had a similar observation on how the doctors began the examination: they were separately asked for their medical history, precisely to find out what possible symptoms might have been experienced by the patient in the near- or even longterm.

The rectal exam, which lasts less than a minute, may be chased by an ultrasound or a prostate-specific antigen test, which measures, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the blood level of PSA, a protein that is produced by the prostate gland. Read full article on manilastandard.net

With Mideast crisis, Russia and China hope to turn tables on US WASHINGTON, DC – Since Russia invaded Ukraine, the United States has sought to isolate Moscow and pressure China to keep its distance.

With war in the Middle East, Russia and China are seeking to turn the tables.

The United States has cast Russia as the disruptor of the international order at the Security Council, with President Joe Biden promising the world body that Washington would use its veto only sparingly.

But the United States went ahead and vetoed a draft resolution last week it deemed insufficiently supportive of its ally.

In comments likely aimed at consumption in the Islamic world, Russia has accused the United States of escalating the conflict through military reinforcements, while China has lashed out at the US veto and Israel’s actions.

The Chinese and Russian reprimands ring hollow for US officials, who doubt the rival powers will engage in painstaking diplomacy along the lines of Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent trip to the region.

But the United States has historically stood out as a lonely voice in its close embrace of Israel, even if for now European allies are largely joining Biden in backing Israel.

Biden on taking office had aimed to shift from the complexities of the Middle East, seeing China as the greatest longterm challenge to the United States.

“This is not a region where the US has wanted to have a heavy footprint and be actively engaged. At the same time, this president in particular is deeply commit-

ted to Israel,” said Leslie Vinjamuri, director of the US and Americas program at Chatham House.

China “is quite willing to see the US pulled sideways in its strategic focus into a region that it hasn’t wanted to be absorbed by, but now is willingly,” she said.

Shift of focus for Russia Hamas militants stormed into Israel on October 7, killing at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians, including inside homes and at a music festival, and taking more than 220 hostages, according to Israeli officials.

More than 5,700 Palestinians, also mostly civilians, have been killed across the Gaza Strip in retaliatory Israeli bombardments, the territory’s Hamas-run health ministry said.

The Hamas assault came 50 years after a sneak attack by Egypt and Syria on Israel on the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur.

The two events have drawn parallels but among differences — Russia was then a major player that backed the Arab states.

Russia returned in force in 2015 to Syria to back Bashar al-Assad, although Russian President Vladimir Putin has also maintained ties with Israel.

“Nobody is expecting Russia to produce any results here — any kind of ceasefire or any role in trying to negotiate the release of hostages,” said Eugene Rumer, director of the Russia and Eurasia program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

“Since 2022, it has all been about Ukraine, so when this tragedy occurred, it was a gift for Putin because suddenly the attention is diverted away,” Rumer said.

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EDITORIAL

Useless dialogue with Beijing

M

ORE than ample proof that China is not interested in any dialogue or negotiation with our country on the territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea is the latest incident on the morning of Sunday, October 22, when a China Coast Guard ship rammed one of two boats used by the Philippine Navy for rotation and resupply missions to Filipino troops stationed on Ayungin Shoal.

During that same mission, the port side of a Philippine Coast Guard vessel was also bumped by a Chinese maritime militia vessel, the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) reported.

Both incidents, according to the Task Force, constituted “dangerous, irresponsible and illegal actions” of the CCG and Chinese maritime militia that are “in violation of Philippine sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction and in utter blatant disregard of the United Nations Charter, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea and relevant international maritime conventions, and the 2016 Arbitral Award.”

We agree.

The Chinese Coast Guard defended its actions by saying our vessels “seriously violated the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea and threat-

It is utterly useless to negotiate with Beijing when all it wants is to harass and intimidate our troops using the so-called “10-dash line” map claiming ownership of nearly the whole of the South China Sea ened the navigation safety of the Chinese vessels.

“The operation of Chinese side was professional, legitimate, and lawful and the responsibility [lies] entirely with the Phil-

ippine side.”

This is arrant nonsense.

We’re glad that the latest maritime runin between Manila and Beijing has drawn condemnation from several countries.

The United States said China’s “latest disruption of a legal Philippine resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal” placed the lives of Filipino troops at risk.

Canada also criticized the incident, saying it was provoked by the CCG’s “unlawful and dangerous conduct.”

The European Union said incidents, their repetition and intensification are dangerous and very disturbing, adding “We join the Philippines in its call for the full observance of International Law in the South China Sea.” At the same time, Netherlands has stood with the Philippines in its call “for the full observance of international law in the South China Sea,” while the German Embassy declared its concern over recent “confrontations” in the South China Sea. The latest incidents in the West Philippine Sea indicate China’s obdurate refusal to recognize our sovereignty over our 200mile Exclusive Economic Zone even as it claims to uphold diplomacy as the key to the settlement of territorial disputes.

It is utterly useless to negotiate with Beijing when all it wants is to harass and intimidate our troops using the so-called “10-dash line” map claiming ownership of nearly the whole of the South China Sea that is bereft of any historical or legal basis.

Veterans have lots of stories to tell

IN MY last trip to Manila two weeks ago, Ret. Major General Jose Magno — or JoeMag for short to all his friends and colleagues – invited me to a social event which turned out to be a gathering of Vietnam War veterans.

Given that it was a Friday and traffic is always bad on Fridays, I was hesitant to go.

But, as it developed, the party turned out to be quite a ball.

This is because when old fogeys like myself congregate, it always turns out to be the usual repetitive recollection of events with a few added flavors that have been told many times before.

Aside from the Second World War, Vietnam and the Korean Wars, there are still many important and significant stories waiting to be told.

We have the CPP/NPA insurgency, the Islamic secessionist military campaigns in Mindanao and our many recent political upheavals resulting in Presidents leaving abruptly that will have to be written by those who participated in those historical events.

Indeed, the accounts that have been published about the events of 1986 and that of 2001 were mostly by academics and not by direct participants.

The same is true with the many coup attempts from 2001 to 2004.

There are, therefore, many stories to write that could fill a small library and many men in uniform who are now veterans participated in those historic events.

Unfortunately, not many of those who have stories to tell never took the time to write their stories or were simply unable which is knowledge lost for appreciation

With its limited security and diplomatic resources in the Middle East, China has a twofold interest in keeping the United States focused on the crisis Biden has tried to link Putin and Hamas, charging in an Oval Office address last week that both were “tyrants” seeking to “completely annihilate a neighboring democracy.”

Russia denounced the remarks. At the Security Council on Tuesday, Russian en-

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

by the whole nation.

I have written about this many times that we are losing valuable knowledge because for one reason or another we Filipinos do not seem to want to write our life experiences and share them with the public. Perhaps, one reason why participants are hesitant to write their stories is because of the effect it might have on their careers.

This is understandable. But after retirement, one should be able to write anything without fear.

In other countries like the United States, it is the other way around.

Every incident is followed by a book.

There are just too many people wanting to write no matter how insignificant one’s participation is in an event.

Although the social gathering was also intended to disseminate the latest news on veterans affairs, one major topic among those who were there was how to encourage those remaining veterans to find a way to record their experiences not only for their families but also for posterity.

I suggested one simple way of doing this is to get a video camera, sit in front of it and just talk no matter how long.

That way, there will be a record.

One problem, however, is where does one send the recording?

If the planned President Fidel V. Ramos Presidential Library becomes a reality, then these recordings can be sent there.

If not, perhaps the PVAO should add this as one of its duties.

PVAO should create a team to go from veteran to veteran doing all the recordings and filing them for future military researchers before all these veterans are gone.

My batch mate former Philippine Veterans Administration Office head Ret. Lt. General Nesty Carolina who was there at the gathering said he started something similar but it must be formalize with a team from PVAO going around doing the interviews.

Also in that gathering, former Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita who is a Vietnam veteran and a Ret. Lt. General in the Army, distributed copies of his book Soldier Peacemaker about his work and experiences to everyone.

He is one of the few that I know who has taken the time and effort to write.

Another book distributed was Warriors for Peace by Ben Cal which is all about the Philippine Civic Action activities in Tay Ninh province in Vietnam where the PhilCag was assigned during their stay in Vietnam.

JoeMag also mentioned he has a long video recording of himself during his time with the late President Ramos, starting from their time in the Special Forces to their time in Fort Bragg, now called Fort Liberty.

So, it seems there are already some veterans doing it.

All that has to be done is for PVAO to draft a plan to operationalize the activity.

There are benefits if there are more people writing about their participation in momentous events.

One is that such books or records will serve as a counter weight to people who want to revise history to suit their own agenda like politics or simply wanting to look good for posterity.

But with many books, this becomes harder to do.

It is always healthier if there are more interpretations of historical events. Read full article on manilastandard.net

voy Vassily Nebenzia accused the United States of failing to respond to global demands for a full ceasefire.

China scores points China and the United States have both sought diplomatic advantage in the crisis, including through a call between Blinken and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The United States has repeatedly pressed China to play a greater role in the Middle East crisis commensurate with its global aspirations and urged it to use its influence over Iran’s clerical rulers, who back Hamas.

Beijing has sent an envoy to the region who has highlighted support for the Palestinian cause.

Jonathan Fulton, an expert at the Atlantic Council on China’s role in the Middle East, said that Beijing in its messaging saw the crisis “as an opportunity to score points on the US.”

He said China likely hoped in turn to win support in the Arab and Islamic world for its priorities — sidelining Taiwan, the self-governing democracy claimed by Beijing, and rejecting US-backed allegations that Beijing is committing genocide against Uyghur Muslims.

But Fulton said that Beijing’s foremost interest in the Middle East remained economic, with the world’s second largest economy heavily dependent on imported oil.

With its limited security and diplomatic resources in the Middle East, China has a two-fold interest in keeping the United States focused on the crisis.

“Obviously for China, it is better if the US is bogged down in the Middle East and the Gulf,” Fulton said.

“But if the US keeps providing the security architecture that maintains the Middle East, China is not going to have to do heavy lifting on its own.” AFP

There are benefits if there are more people writing about their participation in momentous events

Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Treasury Manager Head—Ad Solutions Circulation Manager

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher Chin Wong Joyce Pangco Pañares Jimbo Owen Gulle

Associate Editor Managing Editor News Editor

Emil P. Jurado

Honor Blanco Cabie Opinion Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

NEWS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2023

Ex-JPE staffer loses appeal to quash plunder raps at Sandigan THE Sandiganbayan has denied an appeal by a former chief of staff of then senator- now presidential legal counsel Juan Ponce Enrile to have her plunder case dismissed in connection with the pork barrel scam.

The anti-graft court said appellant Jessica Lucila Reyes raised no new arguments in her motion for reconsideration to warrant the reversal of the September 19 resolution.

The anti-graft court’s Third Division in a minute resolution dated Oct. 17 denied the motion of Jessica Lucila Reyes for leave to file a demurrer to evidence, thus ordering her to present her defense.

A demurrer to evidence is a plea to the court to dismiss outright a case, based solely on the evidence presented by the prosecution.

Court records showed that Reyes repeatedly denied “the existence of conspiracy as a manner of incurring criminal liability” but decried partiality when Enrile was allowed to file his demurrer to evidence.

“While accused Reyes assails the alleged presence of conspiracy in this case, she now asserts the very same concept of conspiracy in her motion for reconsideration to entitle herself to file the intended demurrer to evidence,” the Sandiganbayan noted.

The anti-graft court said the presentation of defense evidence for Reyes’ case will be held on November 7 and 9, 2023, both at 2 p.m. and every Tuesday and Thursday thereafter, as previously scheduled. Maricel V. Cruz

Villar warns PH’s ailing hog industry may get even worse

By Macon Ramos-Araneta SENATOR Cynthia Villar warned yesterday that the country’s already ailing hog industry may further be endangered with the proliferation of the African Swine Flu (ASF) vaccines in the black market.

Villar, chairperson of the Senate agriculture and food committee, noted that this new challenge over imported ASF vaccines from Vietnam will put at greater risk the country’s hog industry.

Due to this, Villar launched yesterday her committee hearing to look into the importation of ASF vaccines from Vietnam.

She questioned the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) on the use of ASF vaccine on our pigs even it was not yet approved in Vietnam.

She also pressed the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for allowing the importation of the vaccine for the same reason- prior to approval by Vietnam of the vaccine which researchers came from the United States.

BAI assistant director Arlene Vytiaco admitted that they had the clinical trials on AVAC Vietnam JSC, AVAC ASF LIVE vaccine produced for commercial use, but insisted it was just a field trial and their first new trial.

But Villar pointed out it was made June 2, 2023 and Vietnam approved the vaccine July 2023.

Bakit nauna ka pa sa Vietnam? (Why did you act ahead of Vietnam?)” Villar pressed Vytiaco as she further confronted her of being a relative of the supplier.

Vytiaco however, vehemently denied the allegation.

The senator then asked her if there can be a field trial without approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Vytiaco said the FDA issued a special import permit for the vaccine on June 23.

The FDA said it issued authority to import only for clinical trial.

A5

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

PROTEST FAR, FAR AWAY FROM GROUND ZERO. Mem-

bers of the militant Sanlakas and Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino stage an indignation rally against the planned Israeli ground invasion of Gaza on Wednesday at the Welcome Rotonda in Quezon City.

The groups call for the scrapping of the US-Israeli sanctioned attack on the Palestinians and an end to the Israeli occupation of Palestine.

Danny Pata

Ex-DOH chief, four others face graft raps over Dengvaxia mess

By Maricel V. Cruz

F

ORMER Health Secretary now Iloilo Rep. Janette Loreto-Garin faces charges of graft and technical malversation before the Sandiganbayan arising from the alleged anomalous procurement of an anti-dengue vaccine from a French manufacturer in 2015.

Cited as Garin’s co-accused in the graft cases were a certain Maria Joyce U. Ducusin, Undersecretary Gerardo Bayugo, former undersecretary Kenneth Y. HartiganGo, and Philippine Children’s Medical Center (PCMC) executive director Julius Lecciones.

Technical malversation charges were also slapped against Garin, Ducusin, Hartigan-Go, and Lecciones.

Garin welcomed however, the filing of the charges. “We see this case as an opportunity to finally put an end to the longstanding issue that apparently con-

tinue to haunt us.”

“As we maintain our clear conscience and readiness to face the issues that confront us, we are confident that our sound exercise of discretion, which is backed by hard science, will disprove the allegations in the complaint filed by Atty. Glenn Chiong,” Garin said.

“We firmly believe in the principles of justice and due process which our legal system upholds. With this, we fully trust that our innocence will be duly proven and the truth will come out in due time,” she added.

The graft complaint alleged that the five accused conspired together and confederated with one another in “causing the realignment of government fund and issuance of Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) BMB-150028814 on Dec. 29, 2015 in the amount of P3,556,155,900 for the procurement of Dengvaxia vaccines and eventual implementation of the School-Based Immunization Program.”

The prosecutors asserted that the accused actions “were in open defiance of the mandate of Executive Order 49, series of 1993, DOH Administrative Orders 2012-0023, 2012-0023-A and other related issuances to the damage and prejudice of the government.”

The prosecutors also accused them for sourcing the fund from the DOH’s Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) in the technical malversation charge.

DIPLOMATIC CALL.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. accepts the credentials of nonresident Czech Ambassador to Manila who called on him at Malacanang. The envoy conveys his government’s desire to establish stronger relations, notably on defense and agriculture, with the Philippines.

IN BRIEF Foreign banks cannot own local property—SC THE Supreme Court (SC) has ruled that foreign banks operating in the Philippines have been allowed since 2014 to acquire real properties for non-payment of loans, but their possession of the foreclosed properties is limited to only five years and the titles cannot be transferred to them.

In a decision, the SC stressed that under the 2014 Republic Act No. 10641, the law that allowed entry of foreign banks to the Philippines, possession of foreclosed property is valid for only five years and the right over such properties should be transferred to a qualified Filipino within the period.

According to the high tribunal, during the five-year period of possession of the acquired properties, the titles cannot be transferred in the name of the foreign banks which foreclosed them. Rey E. Requejo

PH senators call on King Felipe of Spain THE strengthening of friendship and partnership between the Philippines and Spain were among the issues discussed by our senators led by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri in a meeting with King Felipe VI of Spain at the Palacio de la Zarzuela in Madrid on Monday.

They particularly talked about trade and industry, security and defense, and people-to-people exchanges.

Zubiri said the meeting “marks another important milestone in our countries’ deep and enduring friendship.”

“With His Majesty’s support, we hope to usher in a new era of revitalized Philippine-Spanish relations anchored on our shared history spanning five hundred years,” added Zubiri. Macon Ramos-Araneta

Czech Republic keen on sending trade missions next year

PhilHealth gives P72m to primary care provider

need to grab them,” Hejč said.

“And I’m pleased to mention that just in the next year, we will start here with the visit of the foreign committee of our parliament on so much important defense and security issues of the regional geopolitics,” the envoy cited.

Hejč also said his government plans to send their Minister of Agriculture to the Philippines next year, accompanied by a business delegation.

“Our ministers travel accompanied

THE Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) earmarks over P72 million for the Quezon Primary Care Provider Network’s (QPCPN) Konsulta Sandbox In a statement, PhilHealth said it allocated,983,582.39 million to the Quezon Primary Care Provider Network’s (QPCPN) Konsulta Sandbox following its launch in July this year.

This placed the Province of Quezon ahead of the other sandbox sites or pilot areas like Bataan, Guimaras, South Cotabato, and Baguio City to receive the fund that will enable the province to provide primary care package and deliver health services to its residents.

As the first local government unit (LGU) in the country to establish the Konsulta Primary Care Provider Network (PCPN), Quezon Province will enable every Quezonian to have a primary care service provider or affordable medical services through the implementation of Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama or Konsulta primary care benefit package, which includes free primary care consultation, health screening and assessment, diagnostic services, and provision of essential medicines at any Konsulta Package Provider (KPP).

By Charles Dantes MALACAÑANG on Wednesday said the Czech Republic intends to send trade missions to the Philippines next year to explore possible partnerships in defense and agriculture.

Czech Ambassador to the Philippines Karel Hejč conveyed the message during his presentation of credentials to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday.

“The opportunities are here. We just

with business delegations. So, carefully selected companies that are interested in doing business with the Philippines, with the Filipino companies, and investing in Philippines,” he said.

Hejč said that the Czech Republic is one of the producers of the finest war instruments, arms, and ammunition in the world, and is also a major manufacturer of agricultural equipment, including fighter jets, airplanes, and small tractors.

DBM releases P3.84b more to CHED

By Julito Rada

FACE OFF. Tension rises on 14th St. in New Manila, Quezon City when lawyer Levi Baligod, legal counsel of a lot owner, tried to stop policemen from enforcing a court order evicting his client and other landowners in the area. Manny Palmero

THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said on Wednesday it has approved the release of additional P3.84 billion for the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education under the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

In a statement, the DBM said around 141,000 eligible tertiary education students can now be assured of free or subsidized college education.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman approved the Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) amounting to P3.84 billion for the purpose.

“Like what we have been saying, our youth are the torchbearers of our future.

That is why it’s important that we sup-

port them by developing their skills and uplifting their spirits. That is also the marching order of our President because he knows the importance of education.

So, on our part, we will continue to help democratize access to quality education,” Pangandaman said.

The amount released shall cover the payables of CHED to various private higher education institutions (PHEIs) in municipalities and cities with no state universities and colleges (SUCs) and no local universities and colleges (LUCs)’ under the UAQTE-TES for Academic Year 2021-2022.

As of Dec. 31, 2022, the CHEDHigher Education Development Fund (HEDF) stood at P10.967 billion under automatic appropriations.

WORLD

A6 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2023 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Russia’s Shoigu says Moscow exhausting Ukrainian army MOSCOW – Russia claimed Wednesday it was exhausting Ukraine’s army, 20 months into a conflict in which neither side has made recent significant gains.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu made the comments during a visit to east Ukraine, the defense ministry said Wednesday.

“The situation today suggests the enemy has fewer and fewer opportunities. And they will continue to be reduced, thanks exclusively to your combat work,” Shoigu told Russian soldiers.

He was also filmed smiling and laughing when a Russian soldier told him Ukrainian troops were “in a panic”.

It has been months since either Russia or Ukraine made a significant territorial gain in the 20-month conflict, as losses continue to mount.

Analysts say the conflict is approaching a winter stalemate.

The defense ministry did not say when Shoigu’s visit to Russia’s “Vostok” -- or East -- command post took place.

In a rare admission, it also quoted soldiers telling Shoigu that heavy Ukrainian artillery fire was having an effect.

“The enemy’s artillery is causing a lot of problems. We are taking measures,” the soldiers were quoted as saying.

The defense minister has faced criticism inside Russia for Moscow’s failure to make more significant gains during its assault on Ukraine.

Russian forces have recently stepped up their attacks on the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka, but have failed to make any significant advances.

It has suffered a string of manpower and equipment losses in its attempt to seize the city -- which has become a symbol of Ukrainian resistance -according to Kyiv and independent military analysts.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Wednesday his troops were facing “heavy, tough battles” around Avdiivka, but were “holding their positions.” AFP

More than 100 Palestinians killed across occupied West Bank in bloody violence Manila

JENIN, Palestinian Territories – More Standard than 100TODAY Palestinians have been killed across the occupied West Bank since war erupted between Israel and Gaza’s Manila Islamist rulers Hamas on October 7, the Standard health ministry said Wednesday.

TODAY Violence had already spiraled in the West Bank before the Gaza war, with the highest death toll in the Palestinian

territory since at least 2005.

Many of the Palestinian deaths came in raids by Israeli troops, but there has also been a rise in violence between Palestinians and Israeli settlers which has seen civilians as well as fighters killed on both sides.

Since October 7, killings have surged in the West Bank, including annexed east Jerusalem, with the PalestinNOTICE ian death toll reaching 101 PalesERRORS & Extra Judicial tinians, according to the RamalSettlement of OMISSIONS Estate lah-based health ministry.

Over the same period, the IsNotice is hereby given to In Classified Ads section the public that the intestate raeli military has reported one estate of the late Domenciano must be brought to our member of the security forces S. Macaibay has been extrajudicially settled among attention the very day killed while taking part in a raid. his surviving heirs as per Deed of Extra Judicial Settlement the advertisement is In the latest violence, three Palof Estate with Appointment of Property Administrator and published. We will not estinians were killed in Jenin and Attorney-in-Fact entered in the in Qalqilya, both in the northBook of Consul Grace Ann G. be responsible for any one ern West Bank. One Palestinian Bulos as Doc. No. 119; Page No. 6; Book No. XLVIII, Series incorrect ads not reported was also killed in Qalandia, just of 2022. to us immediately. north of Jerusalem.

The health ministry said they were killed by Israeli “bullets and NOTICE missiles”.

NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the intestate estate of The Israeli military said it the late is ROY JONATHAN been Notice hereby given that B. theALVAREZ intestate has estate of launched a drone strike on “terextrajudicially settled by and among his heirs by the late ROY JONATHAN B. ALVAREZ has been way of a Deed settled of Extra-Judicial Settlement Estate rorists” in the densely populated extrajudicially by and among his of heirs by with Waiver of ofRights and Donation executed in way of a Deed Extra-Judicial Settlement of Estate Jenin refugee camp. counterparts Amelitaand J. Cruz and Joyce Winifred with Waiver byof(1)Rights Donation executed in “Armed terrorists fired and C. Alvarez-Quimpo entered J. asCruz Doc.and No Joyce 370, Page No. counterparts by (1) Amelita Winifred 75, Book No. 13, Series of 2023 in the books C. Alvarez-Quimpo entered as Doc. No notarial 370, Page No. hurled explosive devices at Israeof Rodrigo deSeries Real Jr. Notary Public for Makati 75,Atty Book No. 13, of a2023 in the notarial books li security forces” in the camp, an City, Metro Manila; (2) Roy Jonathan C. Alvarez Jr. of Atty Rodrigo de Real Jr. a Notary Public for Makati entered in the notarial of Joseph army statement said.

City, Metro Manila; (2)records Roy Jonathan C. Rodriguez, Alvarez Jr. Notary the State of Texas dulyRodriguez, apostilled; enteredPublic in thefornotarial records of and Joseph Soldiers also shot at “armed (3) Faye C. Alvarez-Olympia entered in the notarial Notary Public for the State of Texas and duly apostilled; terrorists” in the nearby town of records Sugawara,entered Notary in Public of the (3) FayeofC.Bonnie Alvarez-Olympia the notarial State of California apostilled.Notary Public of the records of Bonnieduly Sugawara, Bruqin, where forces also deState of California duly apostilled. tained two people, according to the statement.

NOTICE OF WITDRAWAL OF The military did not immeLICENSE diately comment on the deaths The public is hereby notified that in Qalqilya and Qalandia, when TECHNIDATA ASIA, a Regional Operating contacted by AFP. AFP Headquarters (“ROHQ”) in the Philippines, (MS-OCT. 12, 19 & 26, 2023)

POWERFUL HURRICANE.

People rest at the beach after Hurricane Otis’ arrival alert in Acapulco, Guerrero state, Mexico on Wednesday. A new Category 3 hurricane, driven by winds exceeding 200 km/h, threatens Acapulco, the tourist capital of the Pacific on the west coast of Mexico, the American National Hurricane Center said. AFP

Potentially ruinous Otis heads for Mexico CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

A

CAPULCO, Mexico – Hurricane Otis intensified to a potentially “catastrophic” Category 5 storm Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila) as it barreled towards Mexico’s Pacific beach resort of Acapulco, the US National Hurricane Center said.

Maximum sustained winds increased to near 1260 kilometers per hour, according to the NHC, which put Otis in the most powerful category of the fivestep Saffir-Simpson scale.

“Catastrophic damage likely where the core of the hurricane moves onshore,” the NHC warned.

“Otis is forecast to remain a Category 5 hurricane through landfall, and rapid

weakening is then forecast due to the higher terrain of Mexico,” it added.

As of Tuesday evening, the storm’s center was located about 55 miles from Acapulco, and a hurricane warning was in effect for the coastline from Punta Maldonado to Zihuatanejo.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador made an appeal on social media for people to move to emergency shelters and away from rivers, streams and ravines.

Soldiers were seen patrolling the beach of Acapulco, where visitors earlier made the most of the calm before the storm.

“We won’t be running any tours today,” boat operator Carolina Torres said, voicing hope that Otis might weaken before making landfall.

“If it hits us, that’s very serious for us,” she added.

Rainfall of up to 51 centimeters was expected across Guerrero and parts of neighboring Oaxaca state, the NHC said.

Trump would ‘arbitrarily’ inflate his net worth – Cohen

(MS-OCT. 12, 19 & 26, 2023)

with registered address at Unit 1404-1402, Liberty Center Bldg. 104 HV Dela Costa St., Salcedo Village, Makati City, Philippines, shall cease to operate in the Philippines effective 31 May 2023. The withdrawal of license of the ROHQ will take effect upon approval by the Securities and Exchange Commission.

(MS-OCT. 19, 26 & Nov. 2, 2023)

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT National Capital Judicial Region BRANCH 226 - QUEZON CITY rtc1qzn226@judiciary.gov.ph +63 910-907-8610 IN THE MATTER OF THE INTESTATE ESTATE OF THE LATE PUE SIN CHUA ENRIQUEZ JOSEPH GO ENRIQUEZ, Petitioner, - versus-

SP PROC. No. 21-10386

YU SON JUN ENRIQUEZ, JEANE ENRIQUEZ MONTEVERDE, JOCELYN ENRIQUEZ YOUNG, and JORGE YU ENRIQUEZ, Oppositors. x-------------------------------------------------x

NOTICE TO CREDITORS TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Pursuant to the Order of the Court dated September 30, 2023, NOTICE is hereby GIVEN to all persons having money claims against the Intestate Estate of the late PUE SIN CHUA ENRIQUEZ, arising from contract, express or implied, whether same be due, not due, or contingent, claims for funeral expenses and expenses for the last sickness of the decedent, and judgments for money against the decedent, to file their money claims with the Office of the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court, Quezon City at Room 206, Hall of Justice, Quezon City, not earlier than six (6) months nor later than nine (9) months reckoned from the date of the first publication, serving a copy thereof upon JOSEPH GO ENRIQUEZ, the appointed Regular Administrator, with residential address 490 G. Araneta Ave., Brgy. Doña Imelda, Quezon City, and his counsel on record SANIDAD & ASSOCIATES LAW OFFICES, with office address Top V Compound, Brgy. San Jose, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur. Let this Notice be published at the expense of the Regular Administrator once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in MANILA STANDARD a newspaper of general circulation within Metropolitan Manila and selected by raffle as required by law.

Let the notice be further posted for the same period in four (4) public places in said Metropolitan Manila and in two (2) public places in Quezon City.

WITNESS THE HON. MANUEL B. STA. CRUZ, JR. , Presiding Judge of this Court, this October 2, 2023.

(Sgd.) ATTY. RICHARD JOHN MARK I. TUBOSA Clerk of Court V (MStandard - Oct. 19, 26 & Nov. 2, 2023)

US Republicans try, try again with fourth speaker nominee WASHINGTON, DC – Republicans on Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila) made their fourth pick in just two weeks to replace the ousted speaker of the US House of Representatives, underlining the chaos engulfing the fragmented party after three previous nominees failed to win the gavel.

Louisiana’s Mike Johnson won an internal party vote just hours after previous nominee, Majority Whip Tom Emmer, buckled under a backlash led by former president Donald Trump and announced his withdrawal.

Congress has been at a standstill and unable to address multiple global crises, as well as the fast-approaching threat of a government shutdown, since Kevin McCarthy’s historic dismissal in a far-right rebellion on October 3.

“The dysfunction in the Republican Party right now seems to be saying we want to lose,” exasperated Kentucky Republican Andy Barr told CNN. “That is crazy to me. We were elected as a majority to govern, and we are not doing that right now.”

Johnson -- the vice chairman of the conference but a relative novice in politics -- lost out to Emmer earlier in the day but quickly threw his hat back in the ring after his leadership colleague bowed out. AFP

“This rainfall will produce flash and urban flooding, along with mudslides in areas of higher terrain,” it warned.

“A potentially catastrophic storm surge is expected to produce life-threatening coastal flooding,” it added.

Hurricanes hit Mexico every year on both its Pacific and Atlantic coasts, usually between May and November, though few make landfall as a Category 5.

Earlier this week, Tropical Storm Norma left three people dead, including a child, after making landfall for a second time in the northwestern state of Sinaloa.

Norma came ashore for the first time on the Baja California peninsula on Saturday before heading back out to sea, later barreling into the mainland.

Earlier this month, two people died when Hurricane Lidia, an “extremely dangerous” Category 4 storm, struck the western states of Jalisco and Nayarit.

AFP

STAR WITNESS. Michael Cohen leaves the courtroom for the day after his first day in court testifying against former US President Donald Trump in New York City on Wednesday. As former US President Donald Trump arrived at his New York civil fraud trial he blasted his former right-hand man Cohen as a “liar,” ahead of testimony by the disgraced lawyer that could expose his old boss’s intimate business secrets. AFP

Hundreds of firefighters battle raging dozen bushfires in eastern Australia SYDNEY – Hundreds of firefighters battled bushfires in Australia’s eastern state of Queensland on Wednesday, where soaring temperatures and dry winds have fanned some of the most dangerous conditions in years.

One of the worst-affected areas was the state’s Western Downs, an important agricultural and fruit-growing region about four hours’ drive west of the state capital Brisbane.

Around 350 people spent Tuesday night in council-run evacuation centers, the fire service’s acting chief superintendent Warren Buckley said.

One out-of-control fire has burnt

through more than 11,000 hectares and has claimed four homes and one shed so far, Buckley added.

“I’m not going to mince my words, it’s a dangerous fire.”

Temperatures in the area reached 42 degrees Celsius Wednesday -- significantly higher than monthly averages -- with Buckley describing conditions as “very uncomfortable” for firefighters.

In September, the national weather bureau confirmed that an El Nino weather pattern was under way, bringing soaring temperatures that risked a severe wildfire season and drought. AFP

NEW YORK – Donald Trump’s onetime lawyer turned bitter foe Michael Cohen took the witness stand on Tuesday in the business fraud case against the former US president, accusing his ex-boss of “arbitrarily” inflating his net worth.

It was the first face-to-face meeting between Trump and his former righthand man, nicknamed the “Pitbull,” since Cohen went to jail and became a vocal critic of the New York real estate tycoon.

The pair mostly avoided eye contact as Cohen testified in the civil fraud case in which Trump and his two eldest sons are accused of exaggerating the value of the Trump Organization’s real estate assets to receive more favorable bank loans and insurance terms.

“I was tasked by Mr. Trump to increase the total assets based upon a number he arbitrarily elected,” the 57-year-old Cohen told a packed Manhattan courtroom as Trump sat across from him at the defense table, scowling occasionally and shaking his head.

Cohen acknowledged responsibility for taking part in the alleged fraud and said he and former Trump Organization chief financial officer Allen Weisselberg would “reverse-engineer asset classes” to achieve “whatever number (Trump) told us.” AFP

Japan Supreme Court: Gender sterilization rule unconstitutional TOKYO – Japan’s top court said Wednesday obliging transgender people to be sterilized to change their legal gender was unconstitutional.

But the claim from a transgender woman at the centre of the case against having to undergo gender affirmation surgery will be sent back to a lower

court for further deliberation, the court said.

The sterilization rule “restricts a person’s free rights not to have their bodies invaded against their will,” the supreme court said in the keenly awaited decision that partially overturned its own earlier 2019 ruling.

The requirement imposes a “cruel choice” on those who wish to change gender between “embracing the sterilisation surgery that requires an intense level of bodily invasion” and “relinquishing important legal benefits of being treated according to their gender identity”, the court said. AFP

BUSINESS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2023

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extrastory2000@gmail.com

Monopolies finding loopholes to eliminate their competitors COMPANIES engaging in monopolies manipulate the market by restricting the supply of a product or service. In doing so, market prices increase to improve a company’s bottom line and boost the pockets of shareholders.

The same domination of the market, however, works against the interest of consumers that monopolies serve. They restrict efficiency, the option to innovate and healthy competition. To sum it up, the monopolies lead to a market failure because consumers are forced to buy inferior products or services in the absence of a competing product or service..

Monopolies in the transport network vehicle service (TNVS) sector in the Philippines are no exception. The dominant ride hailing service can render an inferior service and fix prices at the same time in the absence of a worthy competitor. Competition in an ideal free market, in contrast, offers more and superior products and drive inflation lower.

Laws are created to discourage monopolies and foster competition in the market in the hope of providing better services or products to the consumers.

But companies often navigate through the intricate landscape of legal ambiguities and grey zones, where the boundaries of law and regulatory statutes can be anything but clear-cut.

The case of a monopolistic foreign-owned ride-hailing service, masquerading as a Filipino firm, is a classic example. It tried to circumvent the country’s antitrust laws until it was exposed. Undeterred, the company again exploited the ambiguity of the laws, or the absence of implementing rules, to pursue its monopolistic goal.

The dominant player in the TNVS sector in the process committed violations of its franchise to operate, the majority of them revolving around deceptive practices that adversely affected its customers.

The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) in 2019 initially ordered the ride-hailing service to refund P25.45 million to customers for failure to adhere to price monitoring commitments. Subsequently in December of the Manila same year and again in October 2020, the Standard PCC ordered a second and third TODAY refund order.

Many in the industry view the disregard for the PCC’s authority as a direct consequence of the TNVS’s seeming dominance and monopoly of the industry.

The intransigence follows the exit of its primary competitor, Uber, a few years ago that left Filipinos at the mercy of the remaining TNVS. A recent report from the Congressional Committee on Metro Manila Development sheds light on the PCC’s position. It alarmingly noted that “the acquisition of Grab Holdings Inc. and My Taxi PH Inc. of the assets and operations of Uber BV and Uber Systems Inc. in March of 2018 created a dominant firm with significant market power in a highly concentrated market.”

The PCC in response imposed fines—P6-million for violating the refund order issued three years ago and an additional P3 million for submitting inaccurate and misleading information in compliance reports. Despite the actions, the TNVS continues to operate with apparent impunity.

The report also noted the TNVS move to deceive the Philippine government to enter the related motorcycle taxi industry. It cited that while only three motorcycle taxi companies passed the government Technical Working Group’s screening, the foreign entity was not among them.

In a move reminiscent of its 2018 strategy, the TNVS bought out a competitor—Move It. The Congressional Report says “the latter’s (Move It) acquisition of Grab appears to be Grab’s pathway to enter the pilot study.”

The same report also noted while the pilot study guidelines remained unclear on how to handle the new ownership of Move It, the Motorcycle Taxi Technical Working Group effectively curtailed the plot by unanimously deciding to suspend the partnership through a status quo order.

However, the parties involved discovered another loophole. Move It offered its services through the Grab platform, effectively granting Grab de facto membership in the pilot study by relinquishing its operations to Grab.

The Pac-man trend is not about to end. The foreign parent company is reportedly in talks with Food Panda, a primary motorcycle delivery service competitor operating in the country. The potential acquisition move has implications not only for the transportation of people but also in the food delivery system.

The legal ambiguities of Philippine laws are taking the Filipino consumers for an unwelcome ride.

PDRF MEETING. Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno (seated, center) assures that the OCD will coordinate closely with the private sector in a future crisis in a speech during the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) board meeting. Attending the meeting are (seated, from left) PDRF chief resilience officer Bill Luz, PDRF co-chair Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala of the Ayala Group, Nepomuceno, PDRF co-chair Manuel Pangilinan of the PLDT and Metro Pacific Group and PDRF president Butch Meily. With them are (standing from left) Philippine Nuclear Research Institute director Carlos Arcilla, Metro Pacific director for government and public affairs Atty. Mike Toledo and executives of other PDRF member-companies.

Stock market rebounds, ends 5-day losing streak

By Jenniffer B. Austria

P

HILIPPINE stocks rebounded Wednesday from a five-day losing streak following overnight gains on Wall Street on the back of strong third-quarter corporate earnings.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index rose 14.78 points or 0.25 percent, to close at 6.054.50, while the broader allshares index inched up by 4.14 points or 0.13 percent, to settle at 3,299.83.

Losers outnumbered gainers, 830 to 81, while 51 issues were unchanged on value turnover of P3.6 billion.

Four of the 10 most active stocks ended in the green, led by Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company which climbed 2.97 percent to P53.70 and PLDT Inc. which added 2.57 percent to finish at P1,235.00.

Regina Capital and Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said the US stocks went up after the latest corporate earnings of S&P 500 companies exceeded market expectations.

Investor sentiment in the Philippines, however, was dampened by hawkish comments from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Eli Remolona.

Remolona said Tuesday an off-cycle rate hike could be on the table as early as Thursday this week amid the rising inflationary pressures.

Most Asian markets rose Wednesday after China unveiled plans for $137 billion in extra debt to boost infrastructure spending, while oil extended losses on hopes that Israel will scale back its plans for a Gaza ground invasion.

Traders tracked a rally on Wall Street that was helped by a strong set of earnings from big-name firms including Coca-Cola, Verizon and 3M that fueled optimism for the reporting season.

Still, geopolitical crises continue to cast a shadow, with a broader Middle East war still possible and many fearing it could send crude and inflation soaring.

After another painful start to the week, Hong Kong led gains Wednesday after China approved a plan to issue 1 trillion yuan ($137 billion) in sovereign bonds to be distributed to local governments to support national disaster prevention and recovery.

The move will lift the fiscal deficit ratio for 2023 to about 3.8 percent of gross domestic product, the official Xinhua news agency said Tuesday, above the three percent usually con-

CYAN

sidered Beijing’s limit.

Leaders rarely alter the budget midyear, but it did happen in 2008 after the Sichuan earthquake and during the Asian financial crisis in the late 1990s.

Bloomberg News reported that President Xi Jinping paid his first known visit to the central bank, indicating the increased focus the government is putting on the economy.

“The landing of the surprising policy despite surprising third-quarter (economic growth) data may be due to policymakers’ acknowledgement that the pressure to stabilize growth next year will increase,” said Shenwan Hongyuan Group analysts.

The announcement follows a series of small, targeted measures aimed at lifting the economy, which has struggled to recover from the impact of years of zero-Covid measures.

It also comes after officials came under pressure for a bigger, widerranging spending pledge similar to that seen during the global financial crisis.

“This is not the bazooka, but one of the most significant incremental moves so far,” Societe Generale Cross Asset Research wrote in a note.

Hong Kong, Shanghai, Tokyo, Taipei, Manila, Jakarta and Bangkok all rose, though Seoul, Singapore, Mumbai and Wellington dipped.

Email: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com

SM to open 85th mall nationwide in Sto. Tomas, Batangas

By Jenniffer B. Austria SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SMPH), one of the leading integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, said it would open on Friday its 85th mall in the country.

SMPH said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Wednesday SM City Sto. Tomas in Batangas would open with 110,000 square meters of gross floor area (GFA).

“We are delighted to open SM City Sto. Tomas this Friday to add more fun and excitement to the thriving City of Sto. Tomas in Batangas. We are making sure that this newest shopping, dining and entertainment hub will provide its guests with SM’s well-loved brand of service and convenience that will be beneficial to our fellows in Batangas, most especially this coming holidays season,” SMPH president Jeffrey Lim said.

This is SMPH’s fourth mall in Batangas. The three existing malls in the province are located in Batangas City, Lipa and Lemery.

SM City Sto. Tomas is situated along Maharlika Highway, San Bartolome, Santo Tomas City, Batangas, and is strategically located at the intersection of highways traversing the provinces of Laguna, Batangas and Quezon.

SMPH said the mall would open with almost 100 percent of space lease-awarded to tenants across shopping, dining and entertainment stores.

Anchor retailers include SM Hypermarket, SM Appliance, Ace Hardware, Miniso, Watsons, Simply Shoes, Pet Express, and BDO. The new mall will also have SM Foodcourt, Cyberzone, indoor

23,000 sq. m. of GFA. plaza and parking areas.

SM Prime also has seven malls in China SM City Sto. Tomas is also the third SM mall to open this year, after SM aside from the Philippines.

The share price of SMPH closed unCityManila Bataan with 46,000 sq. m. of GFA Standard and SMTODAY City San Pedro in Laguna with changed at P30.20 on Wednesday.

CONCEPCION INDUSTRIAL CORPORATION (formerly Concepcion Airconditioning Corporation) NOTICE OF THE SPECIAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING TO:

ALL STOCKHOLDERS

Notice is hereby given that CONCEPCION INDUSTRIAL CORPORATION (formerly Concepcion Airconditioning Corporation) (the “Corporation”) will conduct its Special Stockholders’ Meeting virtually via Zoom (https://us02web. zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAqceyvqzIpHNbC3_5jlUjWRaAGlKZnTEyo) on November 21, 2023 at 10:00 a.m., at which meeting the following matters shall be taken up: 1.

Call to Order;

2.

Certification of Existence of Quorum;

3.

Approval of the Amendment of the By-Laws;

4

Approval of the Minutes of the Special Stockholders’ Meeting held on 26 October 2022;

5.

Other Matters; and

6.

Adjournment.

The record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the said meeting is fixed at the close of business hours on October 5, 2023.

Stockholders may attend the meeting by remote communication and/or vote in absentia or through the Chairman of the meeting as proxy. Stockholders who wish to participate by remote communication or vote in absentia or by proxy should notify the Corporate Secretary by email to cic.secretary@romulo.com from October 26, 2023 to November 11, 2023.

Successful registrants will receive an electronic invitation via email with a complete guide on how to join the meeting.

For any registration concerns, please get in touch with the Corporation through cic.secretary@romulo.com.

All stockholders who wish to vote through a proxy or in absentia shall submit the duly signed proxies or ballots, as the case may be, to the Office of the Corporate Secretary at the 21st Floor, Philamlife Tower, 8767 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City and/or by email to cic.secretary@romulo.com not later than November 11, 2023. The proxies and ballots submitted shall be validated on November 16, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. We are not soliciting proxies.

The Information Statement which contains a brief explanation of each item on the agenda and procedures for attending the meeting via remote communication and for casting votes in absentia and Quarterly Report for period ended June 30, 2023 on SEC Form 17-Q are posted on the Corporation’s website at https://cic.ph/investor-relations/#specialstockholders The meeting shall be recorded in audio and video format and copies thereof shall be retained by the Corporation.

(MS-OCT. 26 & 27, 2023)

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A8 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2023 Roderick T. dela Cruz Cruz, Editor Alena Mae S. Flores, Assistant Editor business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com

BUSINESS

KOREAN FIRM SHOWS INTEREST

7 groups vying for P170-b deal to modernize NAIA

By Darwin G. Amojelar

T

HE Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Wednesday seven groups are vying for the P170.6billion deal to rehabilitate, optimize and maintain the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

“So far, seven prospective bidders have expressed interest to operate and maintain NAIA,” Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said.

Bautista said South Korea’s Incheon International Airport Corp. was the latest group that bought bid documents for the NAIA privatization.

Other groups that earlier bought bid documents were San Miguel Corp., India’s GMR Group, Manila International Airport Consortium, Spark 888 Management Inc., Asian Airport Consortium and Cengiz Insaat Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S. “ A technical briefing conference will be conducted on Oct. 27 among the prospective bidders,” said Bautista.

The DOTr earlier rejected the request of a prospective bidder to raise the equity cap for airline-related entities participating in the privatization of the main gateway.

The bids and awards committee of the DOTr said the proposed increase in the equity limit for airline-related entities of up to 50 percent “is not acceptable.”

The DOTr already restricts airlinerelated entities in the consortium from owning more than 20 percent.

It said the goal of the restriction is to prevent airline-related entities from controlling the concessionaire.

The DOTr also denied the request of the prospective bidder to remove Clark International Airport from the definition of Greater Capital Region (GCR) entity.

The agency said, however, that “after due deliberation, the participation re-

striction of 20 percent for GCR entity is increased to 33 percent.”

Under the NAIA bid documents, a company that operates a GCR airport—which includes the airports in Clark, Bulacan and Cavite—is restricted to owning only 20 percent of the consortium.

The bid submission was set on Dec. 27, 2023. The DOTr expects to award the contract by January 2024.

The DOTr and the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) serve as co-grantors for the project, which would have a 15-year concession and an option for a 10year extension.

The NAIA project involves capital investment to improve the airport’s facilities to comply with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and other internationallyaccepted standards.

This means modernizing the terminals, optimizing and enhancing the capacity of the airport to 62 million passengers per annum, enhancing asset quality and passenger experience, improving the information and technology systems infrastructure and ensuring reliable operations over the period of the concession.

The concessionaire will be responsible for both landside and airside operations of the NAIA. It will be required to undertake works to enhance the compliance, safety and security of the airport, optimize and boost airport capacity to cater to the increasing air traffic in accordance with objective parameters to be provided in detail in the concession agreement.

SAF-POWERED FLIGHT. Cebu Pacific operates Flight 5J 5055 from Narita to Manila, powered by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), making it the first Philippine carrier to use SAF in a commercial flight from Japan. The Philippine carrier’s SAF flight was operated with an Airbus 321neo, using 40-percent blended SAF produced by Neste Corp. and supplied by Itochu Corp. The combination resulted in a 44-percent reduction in carbon emissions per passenger, setting a new record for CEB’s SAF-powered flights.

Chemrez backs September budget deficit widened 40% to P251b on lower tax collection plan to increase

By Julito G. Rada THE government’s budget deficit widened by 40 percent in September 2023 to P250.9 billion from P179.8 billion a year ago on a double-digit decline in revenue collections, the Bureau of the Treasury said Wednesday.

“The fiscal outturn for the period was underpinned by an 8.06-percent yearover-year acceleration in expenditures, coupled with an 11.57-percent decrease in government receipts,” the Treasury said in a statement.

This brought the cumulative nine-month fiscal deficit to P983.5 billion, down by 2.89 percent, or P29.3 billion, year-on-year and 11.11 percent, or P123.0 billion, lower than the P1.1-trillion target for the period.

“The year-to-date deficit figure is only 66 percent of the P1.5 trillion full-year program due to higher revenue and lower expenditure performance than programmed for the period,” the Treasury said.

Revenues in September fell to P255.4 billion from the P288.8 billion raised a year ago. Despite the lower take during the month, nine-month collection reached P2.8 trillion, accounting for 76.10 percent

DOTr rushes completion of P4.8-t projects

HANDWASH STATION.

School children from Tanauan City Integrated School in Batangas province try the new hand-washing station donated by Lopez-led ecozone operator First Philippine Industrial Park (FPIP) as part of the company’s support to help control the spread of infectious diseases and promote proper hygiene among school children. The donation brought to 30 the number of public schools that received free handwashing stations from FPIP in the past year.

By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Wednesday said it is speeding up the completion of bigticket infrastructure projects worth P4.8 trillion to restore and sustain the country’s transport industry.

“We are rushing projects to reduce traffic, waiting lines, smoke-belching jeepneys, flight cancellations and many other passenger inconveniences,” Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said.

Bautista said flagship transport infrastructures such as railway systems aim to provide the public with improved mobility and connectivity across the country.

“The big-ticket railway projects of the Department of Transportation aim to resurrect the country’s once thriving rail industry while promoting a highly sustainable form of transportation,” he said.

Bautista said with ‘shovel-ready’ infra projects and human capital investment, the transport department was “pushing this multi-sectoral approach to urban development.”

He said a big part of the agency’s budget was allocated to projects such as the LRT-1 Cavite Extension, MRT-3 rehabilitation, MRT-7, MRT-4, NorthSouth Commuter Railway, Metro Manila Subway, South Long-Haul Railway, Mindanao Railway, North Long-Haul Project, San Mateo Railway, MRT-10, MRT-11 and LRT-6.

He said the Active Transport Program, Automated Fare Collection System and Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), along with other land and road-based initiatives, are also part of the many projects that follow the principles of transit-oriented development (TOD).

Bautista said of the 197 infrastructure flagship projects (IFPs) approved by the National Economic Development (NEDA), 73 were being undertaken by DOTr with a total value of P4.775 trillion.

of the P3.7 trillion full-year program and representing a 6.79-percent or P180.4 billion increase over a year ago.

This also surpassed the nine-month target by 2.98 percent or P82.1 billion.

Data showed that of the total collection, 89.55 percent (P2.5 trillion) was generated through taxes, while the balance of 10.45 percent came from non-tax sources which improved 6.38 percent and 10.47 percent, respectively.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue contributed P152.2 billion for September, 12.36 percent or P21.5 billion lower on a year-on-year basis. The agency still managed to grow its cumulative collection to P1.9 trillion, outperforming last year’s comparable outturn by 7.25 percent (P125.5 billion) but missed the P1.9 trillion target by 3.89 percent or P75.3 billion.

The BIR already raised 70 percent of the P2.6 trillion programmed for fiscal year 2023.

Customs’ September collection amounted to P78.9 billion, slightly lower than a year ago. The agency’s cumulative collection for the nine-month period showed a 3.43-percent, or P21.9-billion, improvement from the previous year’s achievement.

biodiesel blend

By Alena Mae S. Flores CHEMREZ Technologies Inc., the country’s biggest coco methyl ester (CME) producer, welcomed the government’s decision to increase biodiesel blend by one percent as a mitigating measure to high fuel prices.

Chemrez president Dean Lao Jr. lauded President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s decision and assured there is available capacity to meet the increase in biodiesel blend from two percent (B2) to three percent (B3).

“The feedstock is available and the capacities for making CME are ready to support the increase in mandate,” Lao said.

Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla received the directive from the President on Wednesday to increase the CME or coco-biodiesel blend from 2 percent to 3 percent which could be accommodated by the supply of feedstock.

Lotilla said total coconut production is 15 billion nuts, and the additional one percent blend would need only 2.6 billion nuts.

“The increase in the blend can also drive down the cost of coco methyl ester because there will be a bigger market for CME. Right now, we expect at least pure diesel landed price to be at parity with coco methyl ester per liter,” he said.

Lao said consumers could expect many benefits with the B3 mandate such as mileage improvement, lower pollution, import substitution and value adding of coconut oil.

“These benefits will come with no practical cost to the government, yet have extensive benefits to the country.

It’s about time the country tap into this valuable resource,” Lao said.

Meanwhile, the President also approved the voluntary implementation of the 20-percent ethanol blend for gasoline which is targeted for approval by the end of 2023. There is currently a mandatory 10-percent blend of ethanol in gasoline.

“The new policy we will be implementing is voluntary and raising it to 20 percent. This is primarily a price mitigation measure because ethanol, especially imported ethanol, is cheaper than the price of gasoline,” Lotilla said.

More delinquent borrowers benefit from penalty condonation program THE National Home Mortgage Finance Corp. said Wednesday more delinquent housing loan borrowers are benefitting from its “TODO Diskwento” program.

The program not only offers a guaranteed 100-percent penalty condonation, but a higher discount on unpaid interests that can go as high as 100 percent depending on the borrower’s total payments made.

NHMFC president Renato Tobias said “this makes the program the most extensive penalty condonation program in the history of NHMFC.” The NHMFC targeted a total of 2,700 delinquent borrowers to benefit from the program. Accounts in arrears by four to 12 months as of Aug. 31, 2023 are qualified to avail of the 100-percent discount on unpaid interests.

“With TODO, we have already re-

leased more transfer certificate of titles [TCTs],” said Tobias.

He encouraged NHMFC’s delinquent housing loan borrowers to hurry and visit the nearest NHMFC office and avail of TODO to save thousands of pesos from penalties and unpaid interests.

“We’ve always lived up to our mandate of increasing the availability of affordable housing loans for our Filipino homebuyers, but while doing so, we wanted to help them [homebuyers] save their precious homes from delinquency, no matter what circumstances they have experienced. That is why we offer the TODO Diskwento program as a significant financial relief to our Filipino homebuyers,” he said.

NHMFC is one of the government’s key shelter agencies under the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development.

NEW JTI OFFICE. JT Group president and chief executive Masamichi Terabatake (fourth from left) leads the formal inauguration of the new offices of JTI Philippines in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig City at the 11th and 12th floors of Ore Central Tower on the corners of 31st Street and 9th Ave. With Masamichi are (from left) National Tobacco Administration (NTA) head Belinda Sanchez, JTI Philippines general manager John Freda, Japan Ambassador to Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko, Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) director-general Tereso Panga and JTI Asia Pacific regional president Yves Barbier.

SPORTS

THURSDAY,, OCOBER 26, 2023

B1

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

Jokic dominant as Nuggets rip Lakers; Suns sink Warriors

Anthony Davis of the Los Angeles Lakers and Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets shake hands before the game at the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. AFP

Mendoza, Severino lead Team PH charge in Asian Para Games’ chess

By Randy Caluag

H

ANGZHOU, Chin—Lady lawyer Cheyzer Mendoza and FIDE Master Sander Severino continued to lead the charge as the Philippine chess team appeared headed to another bountiful harvest in the 4th edition of the Asian Para Games here.

Severino, a quadruple gold medalist in the previous Asian Games, defeated compatriot Henry Lopez to share the lead with the latter in the Men’s Individual Standard PI (Physically Impaired) with identical 3.5 points with two rounds to go.

Severino, who topped the Men’s Individual and Men’s Team, Rapid and Standard Events, Class P1 in the Jakarta Asian Games, was playing against Appaso Kutwal Shashikant (3 points) of India in the Round of 6 late in the afternoon.

The national chess squad contributed five of Team Philippines’s 10 gold medal haul in Jakarta, on top of two silvers and six bronzes.

In the women’s side, Mendoza upstaged Indonesia’s Farta Nasip Simanja as they ended up tied at the top of the standings with identical 3.5 points going into the final two rounds.

Mendoza, who passed the bar exam last year, was to face another Indian

chesser in Sharon Rachel Aby, conqueror of Filipina Cheryl Angot on the same day.

Angot is also a strong contender for a medal with 3 points after five rounds.

Early in the day, lone taekwondo bet Alain Ganapin lost his first match by disqualification, 3-7, to Norlan Dombayev of Kazakstan in the Men’s K44 -80KG quarterfinal.

Ganapin, a Tokyo Olympics’ qualifier who failed to participate after he was stricken with the COVID-19 virus, was just down by a point, 3-4, eventually dropped the match following a 3-point penalty for hitting Dombayev in the head twice.

In athletics, Cendy Asusano and Jesebel Tordecilla ended up 6th and 7th respectively, in the final of the Women’s Discus Throw F54/55.

Over at the CSC Velodrome, Nikko Peralta bombed out of the medal round after placing 10th among 16 participants in the qualifying race of the Men’s c4-5

Thompson: Gilas experience in Asiad valuable to PBA stint FIDE Master Sander Severino

4000m Individual Pursuit.

Only four cyclists advanced to themedal rounds, where the top two were to compete for the gold and the nos.

3 and 4 battle for the bronze medal.

“The sixth round will be critical for us, but so far we are in a promising position in all three categories,” Infiesto said, adding that the outcome will be known after the seventh and final round Thursday morning. Making a surprise visit

to the PH para chess team members before the chessers saw action in the sixth round, was Philippine Paralympic Committee president Mike Barredo, who gave them encouraging words. “While I don’t want to pressure you given what you accomplished in the 2018 Asian Para Games, my prayer is that you continue to do your best and display the same mental fortitude five years ago in Indonesia,” said Barredo.

Gelsano helps Altas send Knights to 9th loss

By Peter Atencio THE University of Perpetual Help Altas got help from Angelo Gelsano as they stunned the defending champion Letran Knights, 73-61, on Wednesday in the 99th National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament at the FilOilEcoOil Arena in San Juan.

Gelsano came off the bench as he unloaded eight of his 10 points in the last period for the Altas as they turned the tables on the Knights to improve with their 4-6

Marcus Nitura

LOS ANGELES—Nikola Jokic delivered a dominant triple-double performance as the Denver Nuggets launched the defense of their NBA championship crown with a seasonopening 119-107 victory over LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday.

On a night which saw Nuggets players receive their championship rings as the team raised its first banner in franchise history, Denver tipped off the 2023-2024 season with a display which suggested they will once again be one of the teams to beat.

“I think the whole ceremony gave us a boost,” Jokic said after the win.

“We didn’t want anything to ruin our night.

“The first half was amazing for us but then we kind of slowed down...

But then at the end of the game we were really good and we won the game.”

The clash at the Ball Arena was a rematch of last year’s Western Conference finals, which Denver swept 4-0 to reach the NBA Finals where they emerged victorious against the Miami Heat.

Denver threatened to steamroll the Lakers early on, surging into an 18-point lead at the start of the second quarter as the Lakers struggled to contain two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Jokic and Jamal Murray.

The Lakers, who strengthened their roster during the offseason with the additions of Taurean Prince, Gabe Vincent and Christian Wood amongst others, fought back during the second half to close the gap to just three points at 92-89 in the fourth quarter. AFP

win-loss record.

The Altas, who got a team-high 17 points from Marcus Nitura, unleashed a decisive 19-0 run, allowing them to move ahead, 70-51, in the last 2:46, after trailing, 51-59, at the start of the period.

The Knights, who were held to six points in the final canto, slipped to 1-9 in the standings.

Art Roque shot 16 points for the Altas, while Jielo Razon added 13.

The Knights got 14 points from Paolo Javillonar, while Vince Cuajao made 11.

FOR Scottie Thompson, there are big expectations for members of the Gilas Pilipinas national men’s basketball team to live up to going into 46th season of the Philippines Basketball Association.

The experience that the players got for winning the gold in the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou will be valuable to their mother teams’ campaigns when action begins on Nov. 5.

“Malaking experience namin ang madadala coming from the Asian Games, coming into the season. Pero nasa amin na ‘yun kung paano maha-handle ang mga expectations,” said Thompson, who was part of the Gilas Pilipinas team that won the gold medal in the Hangzhou Asiad.

The team was honored by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

“Dahil may pressure, mataas ang expecations,” added Thompson before attending the ceremony.

The 31-year-old Thompson was present during the rites, dubbed as “Gabi ng Parangal at Pasasalamat para sa Bayaning Atletang Pilipino.”

Peter Atencio

Bulldogs stretch UAAP win streak to 5 games Games Saturday (SM Mall of Asia Arena) 2 p.m. – UE vs UST (Men) 4 p.m. – NU vs DLSU (Men) (AdU Gym) 2 p.m. – UP vs AdU (Women) 4 p.m. – NU vs FEU (Women) NATIONAL University extended its winning run to five games after surviving the challenge from struggling University of the East, 64-61, in the UAAP Season 86 Men’s Basketball Tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Wednesday.

Kean Baclaan was clutch for the Bulldogs as he drained backto-back shots, a layup and a three-pointer, to make a 57-61 deficit to a 62-61 lead with 2:30 left.

Red Warriors Ethan Galang and Precious Momowei missed their chances late as Jake Figueroa put the insurance free throws with 5.3 seconds left.

Without a timeout left, UE ran the length of the court but failed to take a shot before the time expired.

The Red Warriors failed to score a point in the final three minutes

and 27 seconds of the game.

“Kailangan siguro namin pagdaanan itong challenge na ito against UE para mastrengthen yung kailangan naming gawin pa sa obstacle na papasukin namin coming to second round. It’s a hard-fought win, at least good comeback,” said NU Head Coach Jeff Napa.

The Bulldogs took the provisional hold of top spot at 7-1, half a game ahead of University of the Philippines, which still has a game later in the day against Adamson University.

Second-year guard Baclaan had 18 points and five rebounds while Figueroa made 12 points.

“Win is a win. Nu’ng huli, medyo nafu-frustrate na ako kasi ang dami ng down sa team namin eh.

Para sa akin kailangan naming bawiin ‘yung sarili namin kasi malaking battle ‘yung haharapin namin sa Sabado. Nakita ko nga si Evan Nelle nanonood tinapos niya ‘yung laro,” said Baclaan as teammates Rein Jumamoy, Steve Nash Enriquez, and Jolo Manansala all left the court early due to different injuries.

Kean Baclaan (right)

SPORTS

B2 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2023

Cool Smashers gun for solo lead vs Defenders in PVL All-Filipino

Japan’s Naoya Inoue poses for a photographs after a press conference to announce his next boxing bout against the Philippines’ Marlon Tapales in Yokohama on October 25. AFP

Games Thursday (Ynares Center, Antipolo) 2 p.m. – Gerflor vs Creamline 4 p.m. – Akari vs Farm Fresh 6 p.m. – Cignal vs Choco Mucho CREAMLINE is honed in on its match against Gerflor even as Akari tries to cash in on a franchise-best start and Cignal and Choco Mucho tangle in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino elims at the Ynares Center in Antipolo today (Thursday).

The Cool Smashers showed they remained armed and equipped to defend the championship even without two of their former key players, blasting past a couple of title contenders in the Choco Mucho Flying Titans and the Cignal HD Spikers last week.

Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses was more particular of their last triumph, saying: “It was special because it was held in Batangas and we didn’t expect to win it in three.

Cignal even led, 3-0, in the first set but we tried and played it point-bypoint.”

That led to a 25-20, 25-20, 25-16 victory before a packed crowd of over 4,000 at the Batangas City Sports Coliseum for a share of the early lead with the Petro Gazz Angels.

But while they are expected to dominate the Defenders in their 2 p.m. encounter, Meneses remains as circumspect in dealing with one of the four rookie clubs in the record 12-team fold.

“You can’t count Gerflor out.

They also train hard so we will just have to stay focused,” said Meneses.

The Defenders yielded a pair straight-set losses to the Nxled Chameleons and the Petro Gazz Angels, leaving coach Sammy Acaylar with a huge task of motivating and pushing his crew, led by Grace Berteto, Menchie Tubiera, Pia Sarmiento, Lhara Clavano and Danika Gendrauli, to measure up against the likes of Michele Gumabao, Tots Carlos and Jema Galanza.

‘Monster’ Inoue eyes second undisputed crown vs. Tapales Y

OKOHAMA — Japan’s Naoya Inoue announced Wednesday that he will attempt to become an undisputed world champion in a second weight division by fighting Marlon Tapales in December when all four super-bantamweight belts will be at stake.

The boxer known as “Monster” last year became the first undisputed bantamweight world champion in half a century, before vacating his belts to move up to super-bantamweight.

He beat American Stephen Fulton in his first fight at the new weight to claim the WBC and WBO titles in July and he will try to complete the set in Tokyo on December 26 against the IBF and WBA champion Tapales,

from the Philippines.

“I want to show my overwhelming power and win, even in a fight like this where becoming undisputed champion in a second division is on the line,” the undefeated 30-year-old said.

“I want to knock him out,” added Inoue, who has a perfect 25-win record with 22 KOs. The 31-year-old Tapales (37-3, 19

KOs) upset Uzbekistan’s Murodjon Akhmadaliev by split decision in April to win the IBF and WBA titles.

Inoue welcomed him into the ring after he knocked out Fulton and the Japanese fighter said he would not be taking his next opponent lightly.

“I hadn’t really seen much of Tapales’s fights but my impression was that he was a tough fighter,” said Inoue.

“Then when I looked at his fights, my impression of him completely changed -- he defends very well and he has a lot more technique than I first gave him credit for.”

Inoue knocked out England’s Paul Butler in December last year to become the first undisputed bantam-

Retamar steers Nationals past Altas in 3 IN A duel of two teams with the most successful collegiate programs in the country, Sta. Elena-National University clobbered Kinto Tyres-Perpetual Help, 25-18, 25-17, 25-18, to crowd Fudgee Barr-Ateneo and Army at the top of Pool A in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference at the Paco Arena on Wednesday.

Team captain Joshua Retamar put up a superb all-around performance, tossing 15 excellent sets and finishing with eight points built on four aces, three blocks and one attack to help power the Nationals to the straight-set romp.

“Siempre happy kami sa naging resulta. Nakabawi kami after nung V-League namin, matagal namin inisip yng pagkatalo namin pero nakabawi

na kami ngayon,” said NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin, whose wards bowed to the Altas in the V-League Collegiate elims last month.

The Nationals breezed past the Altas in the first two sets then broke away from a tight 18-17 games in the third as Retamar peppered Perpetual with heavy serves that led to a decisive six-point run for a 23-17 bulge.

Though Retamar himself cut the team’s endgame blitz with a service error, Jade Disquitado rose over the block and Michaelo Buddin sealed the victory with an emphatic block on Louie Ramirez.

Buddin led the team with 12 points on 10 attacks and added four excellent digs, Obed Mukaba had 10 markers while Leo

Aringo chipped in eight points in the Nationals’ one-hour and 17- minute victory.

NU and Ateneo slug it out at 1 p.m. on Nov. 5 in a riveting clash of power and style between two of Pool A’s loaded squads.

No player from Perpetual reached double digits with Ramirez settling for nine points that went with four excellent receptions.

The trio of Jefferson Marapoc, John Castil and KC Andraded scored five points apiece for the Altas, who also beat the NU side in the inaugural Philippine University Volleyball League at home last February.

Perpetual Help will try to bounce back against Army on Sunday starting at 3 p.m.

Joshua Retamar

Dwight Ramos

biid and four-time NBA All-Star Jayson Tatum headline a cast of NBA talent starring defending NBA Champions Jamal Murray and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Bradley Beal, De’Aaron Fox and Zach LaVine, all putting in work as they prepare to help lead their teams all the way.

Each character shows off what he is bringing to the new season – working harder, moving faster, jumping higher – and poses a simple question to his doubters, “How You Like Me Now?” which also serves as the soundtrack to the film. The campaign features cameos from fourtime WNBA Champion Sue Bird and two-time FIFA World Cup Champion Alex Morgan, who share their approval for the players’ championship mindset with, “Now this, I like.”

“Everyone’s Game” nods to the strong parity in the NBA on the heels of the league’s most competitive season ever. It also symbolizes the power of basketball to bring people together, with the campaign appearing across more than 215 countries and territories. With rosters packed with star power and the Larry O’Brien Trophy up for grabs, the NBA’s 202324 season is must-see TV. A collage of Everyone’s Game cast Description automatically generated The full cast includes: 2022-23 Kia NBA MVP Joel Em-

Jardin wins 3rd gold; Licup named Sprint Queen

Kent Francis Jardin displays his three gold medals.

Dwight Ramos in NBA’s ‘Everyone’s Game’ tip-off campaign GILAS Pilipinas’ very own Dwight Ramos is featured in the Philippines’ spot for “Everyone’s Game”, the league’s 2023-24 season tip-off brand campaign now streaming across all @ NBA social platforms and on the NBA App. Reigning Kia NBA MVP Joel Em-

weight world champion since Panama’s Enrique Pinder in 1972.

He also became only the ninth undisputed world champion since the four-belt era began in 2004, and the first in the bantamweight division.

American Terence Crawford became the first man to win all the belts in two weight divisions when he beat Errol Spence to claim the undisputed welterweight world title in July.

Inoue has the chance to match him just 12 months after completing his rampage through the bantamweight division.

“It took me over four years to win all the bantamweight belts but it looks like I can win all the super-bantamweight titles within 2023,” he said. AFP

biid (Philadelphia 76ers) Four-time NBA All-Star Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics) Three-time NBA All-Star Bradley Beal (Phoenix Suns) Defending NBA Champion Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets) Defending NBA Champion Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (Denver Nuggets) Two-time NBA All-Star Zach LaVine (Chicago Bulls) 2022-23 Kia NBA Clutch Player of the Year De’Aaron Fox (Sacramento Kings) Four-time WNBA Champion Sue Bird Two-time FIFA World Cup Champion Alex Morgan The new campaign was directed

by Leigh Powis and produced in collaboration with Translation. “Everyone’s Game” will be supported across all channels with complimentary creative that comes to life in out-ofhome, digital, audio and print assets.

The 2023-24 NBA regular season tipped off on Tuesday, Oct. 24.

JESYLMAE Licup is just a mere replacement runner for the University of Baguio. Now, she’s not just a leg champion, but an ROTC Games heroine.

Determined to retain scholarship and make it to the Philippine Team to help an impoverished family, the 19-year-old was crowned as the Reserved Officers Training Corps Games ‘Sprint Queen’ after winning the women’s century dash of the National Finals late Tuesday, even as Kent Francis Jardin became the winningest athlete at the Philsports track oval in Pasig City.

Licup registered the fastest time of 13.01 seconds, bettering his 13.02 performance in winning the Luzon leg last month in the tournament for students’ cadets in all colleges and universities in the country.

Licup, a freshman BS Criminology student playing under the Philippine Army, defeated her much-experienced rivals – Christine Guerio and Hope Charity Labunayan – both medalists in the Manila leg and teammates in the Adamson University. The 18-yearold Guerio finished second at 13.17 seconds and Labunayan took the bronze at 13.18.

“Gustong-gusto ko pong manalo para sa pamilya ko. Salamat po sa Diyos sa biyayang ito,” said Licup, fourth in a family of 11 siblings.

ENTERTAINMENT Pia Wurtzbach impressed

by Michelle Dee’s finals gown, comments on Miss Universe changes

M

By Nickie Wang

ISS Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach noted that the Philippines’ preparation for Miss Universe is truly exceptional. The country has a significant advantage due to the presence of experts, including mentors and trainers dedicated to every aspect of preparation, from styling to social media strategy.

“We have an advantage because we have experts in the country – mentors and trainers who are willing to assist with every aspect of preparation, from styling to social media strategy, something we didn’t have before. We are ready, and we consistently produce winners,” she said in an interview during the opening of the Center of Advanced Dentistry clinic’s new branch and her awarding as a National Bookstore bestselling author.

One thing she admires about Michelle Dee,, the country’s bet to the pageant’s latest edition happening in El Salvador on November 18, is her clear vision.

“Michelle knows precisely what she wants, and she conveys it in a sweet and gentle manner.

She exudes a queenly aura, has a strong sense of her desired style, and is deeply committed to her advocacy.

These qualities are what I appreciate in a winner,” the 34-year-old beauty queen underscored.

Pia had the chance to speak with Michelle briefly at a recent event, and Michelle gave her a sneak peek of her gown. When Pia first saw it, she was thrilled and told her, “Girl, it’s stunning.” Pia was confident that people would have the same reaction.

She is planning to have a private moment with Michelle over the weekend and is already preparing some notes. She wanted to offer her guidance to make her experience smoother, including some minor details. Pia’s advice to her was to savor the experience, have a well-thought-out strategy, and stick to the plan.

“I’m going to have a private moment with her this weekend, and I’m already preparing some notes – just reminders to make her experience easier, focusing on trivial things. My advice to her is to savor the experience, have a strategy, and stick to the plan. When it comes to social media, people will depend on her posts, so plan for that, but don’t read the comments,” she said with a smile.

American R&B singer Brent Faiyaz

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2023

B3

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

OPM pop band Side A is back with its latest single, ‘Caught In A Daze’

How Side A does A-sides

Pia’s newly-launched book ‘Queen of the Universe’ is a fictional novel inspired by her real-life experiences as a beauty queen

In addition, Pia shared her thoughts on recent changes in Miss Universe, particularly the removal of age restrictions in all Miss Universe and associated pageants.

S h e expressed Miss Universe 2015 openness to Pia Wurtzbach the changes happening now and anticipated that these adjustments would make the pageant more inclusive.

According to Pia, the essence of Miss Universe was being a spokesperson, an inspiration, and someone who used her platform to advance her advocacy and causes.

Pia believed that these were principles women should champion, regardless of their age, marital status, height, or any other factor. She questioned the previous exclusivity to only women and urged a reevaluation of the definition of Miss Universe.

“These are the things that need to be championed by women regardless of their age, marital status, or height, whether they are 5’3” or 6’2”. Why was it exclusively for women before? We need to revisit our definition of Miss Universe, and for me, that title can belong to anyone, so I am not opposed to any changes,” she said.

“I think it’s even better that the age limit was lifted because it opens doors for many women.

Now, our wishlist is getting longer, and we’re seeing new dynamics,” Pia related expressing excitement mentioning Christi McGarry and Alaiza Malinao

as some of the beauty queens she would love to see on the pageant stage again.

Queen of the Universe Pia officially launched her book Queen of the Universe, a novel drawn from her real-life experiences as a beauty queen and beyond, set against the rich backdrop of Manila’s glittering urban life.

The book centers on a fictional character named Cleo who has to face unexpected twists and turns and endure challenges to her identity and integrity amidst the dizzying world of beauty pageants.

“Cleo is loosely based on my life story but as you go through the chapters you will see that she goes through her own journey so it’s not me. Medyo magkaiba kami ng path na pupuntahan. I’ll leave that up to you guys to discover when you read the book,” Pia said.

Queen of the Universe is one of a handful of books by a Filipino author to launch internationally.

Aside from the Philippines, the book is now in Singapore and will be available in the US, Australia, Canada, UAE, and the UK later this year.

Its e-book version will be available worldwide starting November 7.

Queen of the Universe is published by Tuttle Publishing, one of the oldest American publishers in operation and the world’s largest publisher of books about Asia.

For this project, Pia is represented by her literary agent ABS-CBN Books, best known as the publisher of titles from bestselling authors such as Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Charo Santos-Concio, Vice Ganda, Alex Gonzaga, and Binibining Mia. Queen of the Universe is ABS-CBN Books’ first international deal.

Copy of Queen of the Universe is available at National Bookstore and Fully Booked branches in the Philippines and at Kinokuniya and Times Bookstores in Singapore. US-based readers may already preorder a copy on amazon.com and barnesandnoble. com.

Brent Faiyaz announces ‘It’s A Wasteland Tour’ in Asia AMERICAN R&B singer Brent Faiyaz, who has been praised for his introspective and relatable lyrics, will embark on his first Asia tour in January 2024.

The It’s A Wasteland Tour will kick off in Tokyo on January 24, followed by Seoul, Manila, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

Faiyaz will be coming to Asia armed with his latest album, 2022’s Wasteland, which was a critical and commercial success, debuting at number two on the Billboard Top 200 chart.

The album features several hit singles, including “Dead Man Walking”, “Gravity ft. Tyler, The Creator”, and “Wasting Time ft.

Drake & The Neptunes”.

The It’s A Wasteland Tour will commence at The Garden Hall in Tokyo, Japan. The tour will then move on to Seoul, South Korea, where Faiyaz will perform at Myunghwa Live on Friday, January 26. On January 28, Faiyaz will headline New Frontier Theater in Manila, Philippines.

On January 30, Faiyaz will perform at Rotunda 2 KITEC in Hong Kong, China. Then the tour will

conclude on February 1 at Capitol Theatre in Singapore.

Live Nation members can secure tickets first during the exclusive Live Nation Philippines Pre-Sale on November 6 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:59 p.m. (local time). General sale will start November 7 at 12:00 p.m. (local time) via SM Tickets.

For complete tour and ticket information, visit: livenation.asia Maryland singer Faiyaz, 27, crafts timeless music with introspective lyrics.

He embodies the duality of heroism and villainy, much like us all.

In 2020, his F*ck The World album made waves, and 2021 was a year of major collaborations with artists like Drake, Tyler The Creator, and Meek Mill.

In 2022, Brent achieved unprecedented success with Wasteland, an RIAA Platinum album debuting at #2 on the Billboard Top 200. It includes hit singles like “Dead Man Walking” and “Gravity ft. Tyler, The Creator.” His latest track “All Mine” hit #1 on Urban Radio.

Brent earned nominations at the AMAs, Soul Train Awards in 2022, and iHeartRadio Music Awards in 2023. His music has amassed over four billion streams.

PART of Side A’s enduring legacy is the band’s capacity to deliver a record that sounds very much like, you guessed it, Side A. That’s sure ball regardless of who wrote, plays in, and sings it.

The group’s latest single “Caught In A Daze” is another great example of how they patiently go through the proven process that has made them one of the most respected bands in the Philippine music scene.

The new song released by Icons Music made it to Spotify’s New Music Friday playlist last week Friday (October 20).

“For the past couple of singles that we’ve released under Icons Music, we would only record the drums and vocals live in a studio. The rest of the tracks would be done at home,” shared Ned Esguerra, Side A’s bass player who wrote the composition.

He noted, “This process is not only less expensive, it is also less timeconsuming.”

The song that Ned wrote for his wife Rhia promises to be a good addition to a catalog that has stood changing trends in music.

The band’s lead guitarist Leevon Cailao produced and arranged “Caught In A Daze.” Ned acknowledged him for coming up with a “more upbeat and feel-good kind of vibe” that he thinks suited the song’s core message.

Ned and Leevon value each other as writing partners and they felt happy that the song’s drum tracks were recorded inside the home studio of Boyet Aquino who mixed and mastered the song, and who by their estimation is an excellent drummer that Side A’s resident stickman Ernie Severino would be happy to work with anytime. That part of the process, in Ned’s words, “made for an incredibly steady foundation for the song’s musical arrangement.”

Ned further pointed out, “Another detail worth noting is the vocal arrangement, masterfully done yet again and as always by our band leader and musical director Naldy Gonzales.

Background vocals are usually just an afterthought. But with Naldy, it’s a premium ingredient essential to what gives a song that certain ‘Side A’ sound.”

The veteran band’s current record label is a division of Widescope Entertainment established by a power trio of music industry experts, namely, executive producer Vic de Vera, supervising producer Neil Gregorio, and A&R coordinator Ebe Dancel.

For that, Ned said, “Working with our Widescope family and Icons Music is quite simply a breeze. From boss Vic and Neil and our A&R manager, Ebe Dancel, all the way to the marketing team, the trust and support that we receive from them is incredible. Just a really good bunch of people to work with.”

Side A’s longevity is a testament to how the band has confidently navigated the music scene that keeps on changing and being challenged by generation gaps, differing artistic preferences, and new-era mentality. They are never rattled, not even with some of them traditionally labeled as key members going solo or retiring. Side A has always been about the group and what made it a household name.

Side A releases under Icons Music include “Ibigin Ang Mundo” and “Clueless,” both dropped last year.

“Caught In a Daze” was recorded at Studio Z with the help of Benjo Casaljay. As you may have noticed, this particular song is technically covered from Side A to Studio Z.

LIFE

B4 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2023 Nickie Wang, Editor Angelica Villanueva , Writer E-mail: lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

A holistic approach to breast cancer prevention and treatment

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REAST cancer is the predominant cancer impacting women, but it is not unbeatable. The Farm at San Benito redefines cancer prevention and treatment with a holistic approach that combines advanced medical expertise with complementary therapies.

Holistic cancer care considers the physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing of the patient. It goes beyond traditional medical treatments to address the whole person, not just the disease.

This may include complementary therapies such as nutrition, emotional support, and lifestyle changes.

The goal of holistic cancer care is to improve the patient’s overall quality of life and well-being while managing cancer. The Farm at San Benito offers a comprehensive holistic cancer care program that includes state-of-the-art monitoring systems, immune-boosting foods and beverages, psycho-emotional clearing, and more.

Cancer is often seen as an enemy, but The Farm at San Benito believes it is a messenger, sent to guide us towards a more transformative and fulfilling life.

Their Holistic Cancer Care Program integrates the latest medical advances with the healing powers of nature, providing comprehensive support for the body, mind, and spirit.

The program begins with a state-ofthe-art, non-invasive monitoring system to assess the individual’s overall health and well-being. Guests then embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploring the physical, psycho-emotional, and spiritual aspects of the disease. With the guidance of integrative doctors, they learn to understand the root cause of

their illness and uncover wellsprings of healing within themselves.

The Farm’s Holistic Cancer Care Program also includes a variety of holistic therapies and treatments, such as: Immune intelligence-fortifying microbiome: The gut microbiome plays a vital role in overall health and immunity. The Farm’s program includes foods and supplements that support a healthy microbiome, helping to boost the immune system and fight cancer cells.

Nutrient-rich organic vegan meals and beverages: Plant-based foods are packed with essential nutrients that support the body’s healing process. The Farm’s three-course plant-based meals and antioxidant-rich juices provide guests with the nourishment they need to thrive.

Unveiling a new era of health, wellness, and beauty LEADING health, wellness, and beauty retailer brand Watsons, launched its inaugural Watsons Fit Fest, a series of exercise activities that promote an active and healthy lifestyle.

Exclusively held for Watsons Club members, the event aimed to help everyone discover their wellness goals or recalibrate those who have been finding new ways to approach their journey.

True to its commitment to prioritizing self-care and holistic wellness, Watsons’ Customer Director Jared De Guzman emphasized the role of Watson in providing initiatives like Fit Fest that align with health, wellness, and beauty.

Attendees got to participate in revitalizing activities such as dance cardio, yoga, and circuit training, as well as skincare and wellness sessions.

There were also simultaneous physical activities such as Spin Bike (with Cyclehouse), Rope Flow (with Rope Flow), and Circuit Training (with Kinetix Club).

And finally, to wind down after the activities, participants enjoyed a Skincare Refresher activity prepared by Watsons.

“Watsons has always been committed to a lifestyle that celebrates self-care, wellbeing, and self-confidence. Brought to you

by Watsons Club, the Watsons Fit Fest aims to help everyone discover their wellness goals or recalibrate for those who have been finding new ways to approach their journey,” shared De Guzman.

“At Watsons, we’ll continue to celebrate health and beauty in all forms and

Psycho-emotional clearing: Cancer can have a profound impact on the mind and emotions. The Farm’s program includes psycho-emotional clearing techniques to help guests release stress, trauma, and negative emotions, which can contribute to healing.

The Farm at San Benito’s Holistic Cancer Care Program is a journey of healing and transformation. It is a time to listen to the body’s wisdom, identify the root cause of illness, and awaken the innate healing powers within. By

integrating the latest medical advances with the healing forces of nature, The Farm strives to provide guests with the best possible chance of recovery and a newfound vitality to contribute to the world.

Book a free 30-minute tele-health consultation with The Farm at San Benito’s Integrative Medicine Doctor.

Visit The Farm this October and learn more holistic tips on breast cancer prevention and empowering women’s health.

Holistic Cancer Care Program starts at P18,900 ++ per night from P21,000 ++ per person based on single or double occupancy (rates are applicable for Philippine residents and local expats).

Booking date with 10 percent discount from this month until December 15.

To book a program or learn more about The Farm, visit www.thefarmatsanbenito. com. For direct inquiries, call (+632) 8848074, (+63) 918 884-8080, or email info@ thefarm.com.ph or reservations@thefarm. comph.

Fashion Conference setting global standards for emerging designers

Spin Bike Session with Cycle House’s Coach Michelle Estuar

By Angelica Villanueva

Actress Iza Calzado tries out the Holistic Offerings at The Farm at San Benito

empower everyone to be the best version of themselves,” he added.

Dubbed “Recharge Your Mind, Reboost Your Energy, and Renew Your Outlook,” the fitness event is expected to enhance the wellness and health of the participants and help them get back into great shape.

It also featured the Watsons Health & Beauty formula where members could take part in various activities and have the chance to win exclusive vouchers and Watsons Club points.

That’s when De Guzman also encouraged everyone to become an official member of Watsons Club to enjoy endless exclusive deals, discounts, and promos of the wellness brand.

“You will not be able to enjoy Watsons discounts until you are a member of Watsons Club. Watsons Club membership is needed for you to earn all the great discounts in Watsons,” he explained.

He also said that aside from receiving exclusive discounts and deals in Watsons offline and online stores, being a Watsons Club member also grants a member a fantastic experience to empower your health, wellness, and beauty aspirations.

“Even the buy-one-take-one promotion, you need to have the membership. It’s important that when you visit a Watson store, it will be your loyalty companion already.

It’s very easy to become a member and it’s free. Just download the Watsons app, and sign up,” De Guzman continued.

To know more about Watsons’ exciting and rewarding membership perks, visit https://www. watsons.com.ph/membership-registration.

For more information, follow @ watsonsph on Instagram, like @WatsonsPH on Facebook, and follow @ watsonsphilippines on TikTok.

Watsons PH Customer Director Jared De Guzman (middle) together with Watsons executives and officers

From left: PHx Fashion Group's Esme Palaganas, Trickie Lopa, and Seph Bagasao TFC Press founder Philippe Terrien (left) and wife, former fashion editor Giselle Go

Filipino-British designer Norman René De Vera

THIS year’s PHx Fashion Conference, a pioneering initiative of the PHx Fashion Group led by notable names in the industry, with the vision of setting global standards for emerging fashion labels and designers is set for November 17 to 19 at the Ayala Museum in Makati City.

Conceived and spearheaded by fashion luminary and educator, Esme Palaganas, in collaboration with contemporary fashion designer, Seph Bagasao, and with the support of Trickie Lopa, the PHx Fashion Conference debuted in November 2019 with the mission to cultivate a creative business environment through education and market incubation.

It thrives on promoting innovation, mentorship, and fostering industry collaboration to expand the horizons of Filipino fashion designers as they develop their labels.

Fashion luminaries as panelists and speakers PHx Fashion Conference 2023 brings together distinguished names in the fashion world to explore both the creative and business aspects of the industry.

The conference will begin with a conversation between Parisbased Filipino-British designer Norman René De Vera and Vogue Philippines fashion editor, Pam Quiñones.

De Vera, who started his global fashion journey at the London

College of Fashion, has worked with iconic fashion houses such as Celine, Louis Vuitton, Lanvin, Versace, and Calvin Klein. He is currently the Design and Image Director at the French legacy brand, AZ Factory.

Steering the principal segments of PHx Fashion Conference 2023 are TFC Press founder Philippe Terrien and his wife, former fashion editor Giselle Go. The Japan-based duo has also ventured into the skincare industry with their brand, Damdam Tokyo.

Apart from talks, panel discussions, and workshops, select participants will have the chance to present their designs in a Portfolio Review.

Filipino designer Carl Jan Cruz and the cofounders of the bespoke jewelry brand, 13 Lucky Monkey, Dante Dizon, and Noli Coronado, will also share their experiences and insights into navigating the international fashion arena.

The conference will also delve into protecting and leveraging a company’s brand identity through intellectual property strategies. This segment will be led by designer and entrepreneur Dan Matutina, cofounder of the multi-disciplinary design studio Plus63 Design and the design collective Hydra-design Group.

The group has partnered with one of the country’s leading virtual wallets, Gcash, to present a primer on how creative entrepreneurs and businesses can leverage financial technology to bolster their growth.

The PHx Fashion Group organized this event in collaboration with Ayala Malls through its Bravo Filipino initiative, GCash, and with support from the Embassy of France in Manila, Ayala Museum, and Seda.

Early registration for PHx Fashion Conference 2023 is now open at www.phxfashion.org, with discounted early-bird tickets available until October 31.

Stay updated with the latest news and speaker announcements by following it on social media @ PHxFashionGroup on Instagram and www.facebook. com/phfashionconference.

You may reach the author at joba.botana@gmail.com.