Manila Standard - 2023 October 31 - Tuesday

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PBBM bares vote-buying attempts in Ilocos Norte

By Charles Dantes PRESIDENT Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio led the nation in casting their vote in their respective polling places during yesterday’s

Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).

Mr. Marcos arrived early at the Mariano Marcos Memorial Elementary School in Batac City, Ilocos Norte, where he urged Filipinos not to waste

their right to suffrage by voting wisely.

“My advice to our fellow citizens is not to waste your right to choose your barangay officials because these officials are the ones you face every day,” Next page

DUTY DONE. President Marcos (right) and Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio show their VOL. XXXVII • NO. 258 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2023 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

fingers dabbed with indelible ink to show they have voted in Monday’s barangay elections.

PIO, VPSD Photos

1-week BSKE transition sought Comelec wants more turnover time for incoming village execs

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HE Commission on Elections (Comelec) wants a one-week transition period for the proclaimed winners of the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) before they assume office.

Comelec chairman George Garcia said Monday night this was the commission’s position in the wake of the recent Supreme Court decision that found the postponement of the BSKE to October 30, 2023 unconstitutional.

“The Supreme Court said the start of term of office of those who will win the 2023 BKSE should start January 1, 2023, but that date has long passed,” Garcia said.

“That means if they win and get proclaimed tonight, they should assume office tomorrow (Tuesday),” he added.

Election boards started canvassing votes at around 8 p.m. last night and the Comelec expected to proclaim some winners soon after, except for the 245 that have pending disqualification cases (see related story on A1 – Editors).

Garcia said he had asked Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos if the Department of the Interior and Local Next page

245 candidates facing DQ cases

BSKE SCENES. (Clockwise from top left) Police investigators stand over one of two fatalities and the crime scene of an ambush of reported followers of Mayor Khadaffe Mangudadatu

in Pandag, Maguindanao del Sur on Monday. In Puerto Princesa, Palawan, a torn ballot is seen on a desk as many more are scattered inside a classroom, the work of a group of disgruntled voters. Philippine Coast Guard officers help poll workers unload ballot boxes at a beach in Zamboanga del Sur, while volunteers point people to their proper voting precincts at a school in Angeles, Pampanga. CIDG BARMM, Palawan PNP, PCG, and Norman Cruz

4 deaths in Mindanao, confusion tarnish ‘generally peaceful’ polls AT LEAST four people were killed in Mindanao on Monday as millions turned out to vote in the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE) following months of deadly poll-related violence.

As in the last nationwide village elections five years ago, violence and

confusion still marred the proceedings, but the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said polls were generally peaceful this year.

Including the four killed yesterday in Maguindanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, and Basilan, total fatalities came to 12 with seven injured for this year’s elec-

‘High ratings of House leaders shows Pinoy awareness on CIF’

By Maricel V. Cruz THE high performance rating of the House leadership as indicated in a recent survey reflects people’s sentiments on pressing issues, including the need to realign confidential and intelligence funds (CIFs) to security agencies, lawmakers said yesterday.

“The OCTA Research 2023 third quarter survey was conducted between Sept. 30 and Oct. 4. That’s when the controversy around the House decision to reallocate CIFs from civilian Next page

tions, compared to 35 election-related incidents in the 2018 contests, Comelec and police records showed.

Scuffles were also noted in Abra, where a group of men carrying handguns in a sling bag were stopped – in a province that was under watch by authorities as over 290 candidates with-

drew before the polls -- and in Palawan, where a group destroyed ballots in voting precincts in Puerto Princesa City.

Security forces were on high alert across the country for the long-delayed nationwide vote for more than 336,000 council positions.

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has suspended the proclamation of at least 245 candidates in the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE) due to pending disqualification cases.

“We have suspended the proclamation of 245 candidates,” Comelec Chairman George Garcia said. “In fact, we want to file [disqualification cases against] an additional 60 [candidates] before they get proclaimed.

This is so that the Comelec [can] still assume jurisdiction of the disqualification case,” he said.

Except for a few incidents, including the tearing of ballots in Palawan, a physical confrontation in Lanao del Norte, teachers suddenly backing out of their voluntary poll duty in the Bangsamoro Region, and at least two shooting incidents in Lanao del Sur, the elections went as expected (see main story – Editors).

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Israel tanks advance into Gaza City; PH still backing two-state solution ISRAELI tanks advanced into the fringes of Gaza City on Monday, witnesses said, as it ramped up its war on Hamas, saying it had killed dozens of militants in hundreds of strikes.

“We have hit more than 600 targets in the past 24 hours,” a military spokesperson said, up from 450 the previous day, with Hamas militants also reporting “heavy fighting” in northern Gaza.

Tanks entered the Zaytun district on

the southern fringes of Gaza City, cutting a key road from the north to the south of the war-torn Palestinian territory, witnesses said Monday.

“They have cut the Salahedin Road and are firing at any vehicle that tries to go along it,” said one resident who did not give his name.

Israel has on several occasions warned the 1.1 million people living in

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NEWS

A2 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2023 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Gas up; diesel, kerosene down today

By Alena Mae S. Flores

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HE country’s oil firms implemented a mixed oil price movement effective 6 a.m. today (Tuesday), with a rollback of P1.25 per liter for diesel – slightly lower than last week’s forecast of a P1.40 per liter reduction.

movement to the weakening of crude prices despite the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

She said other factors include the strengthening of the US dollar, which had a negative impact on oil prices.

“Oil is typically priced in US dollars, so when the dollar rises, it can make oil more expensive for buyers in other currencies, leading to lower demand and lower prices,” Romero said.

These price adjustments resulted in a year-to-date net increase of P14.20 per liter for gasoline, P10.45 per liter for diesel, and P5.04 per liter for kerosene.

According to a DOE report, total petroleum demand increased by 3.4 percent

to 13,595 million liters (ML) in the first half from 13,154 ML in the same period in 2022 as economic activities normalized.

The country imported all of its crude oil requirements from the Middle East during the period, of which 50.2 percent came from Saudi Arabia, 26.92 percent from the United Arab Emirates, and 22.91 percent from Iraq as of June.

Petroleum product imports, used by independent oil companies, slightly dropped by 0.1 percent to 10,281 ML from 10,291 ML last year.

On a per-product basis, the importation of aviation fuel significantly increased by 42.6 percent due to the lifting of travel restrictions.

voter turnout in the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) to reach 80 percent, which would be a record for the village polls.

Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco said this is based on initial reports of many voters trooping to polling centers on Monday.

Laudiangco said in a press briefing: “Coming from 2018 and prior to the 2013 polls, the record is 70 percent (voter turnout). We are hoping that it will reach 80 percent.”

“We are witnesses to how important barangay (officials) are especially during the pandemic. We saw how they were involved in all aspects of people’s lives,” he added.

The polling body is also pushing for the annulment of the voter’s list by 2026 in preparation for the next presidential elections in 2028.

Garcia said this would ensure a clean list of voters and eliminate the perennial problem of voters being unable to find either their names on the official list or their voting precinct.

“We will have the registration period for one month,” he said.

pilot-tested in two areas.

“Our senior citizens, they went early to their assigned polling centers to vote,” he said.

The Comelec pilot-tested the implementation of early voting in Muntinlupa City and Naga City.

Laudiangco assured they will continue to hold early voting in future polls sans a law providing such privilege.

“In the absence of a law, we would be happy to implement early voting in 2025,” he added.

Pump prices of gasoline went up by P0.45 per liter while kerosene went down by P1.20 per liter.

“Flying V will implement price movement for the following products on October 31, 2023, Tuesday at 6:00 AM: Biodiesel: P1.25 per liter rollback, gasoline: P0.45 per liter increase, and kerosene: P1.20 per liter

rollback,” the company said in its advisory.

Seaoil Philippines, Jetti Petroleum, PTT Philippines, and Cleanfuel also issued separate advisories while other oil firms are expected to follow.

Department of Energy director for the oil industry management bureau Rodela Romero attributed the latest oil price

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he said.

“Barangay officials are the first line of service and help to our fellow citizens. If you just sell your vote, you will lose your voice and you will not be able to choose who should really lead in your barangay,” the President added.

Mr. Marcos disclosed that even in his province, there were attempts to buy votes.

“Unfortunately, last night there were some reports, even here in Ilocos Norte, that there were some people buying votes for the barangay election,” he said.

Duterte-Carpio, for her part, cast her vote at the Daniel R. Aguinaldo National High School in Davao City.

“The election is the one process where all Filipinos, regardless of standing in life, are given the chance to contribute to nation-building by choosing to vote wisely. We show our unity as a country through our vote,” she added.

Other national officials also underscored the importance of participating in the BSKE. “While some may belittle the nature of barangay elections, the role of village officials is significant.

Our barangay officials – they are the first persons we run to whenever there is a problem in our community. They are the so-called first line of defense when it comes to public safety,” said Senator Raffy Tulfo, who cast his vote at the Quezon City High School.

Senator Jinggoy Estrada, for his part, lamented receiving several complaints of vote-buying and f lying voters.

“A lot of people received money – about P500 in one barangay,” Estrada said.

The BSKE has been postponed three times since 2018.

Interior Secretary Behur Abalos urged the public to report fraud and cheating incidents in polling precincts, adding that this is the greater responsibility of voters other than casting their votes.

Government could study having a transition period for all incoming village officials.

“There could be confusion if the winners proclaimed tonight would assume office tomorrow. We need ample time for proper turnover of equipment, funds and other documents,” Garcia said.

Meanwhile, the Comelec said it managed to live up to its commitment of no failure of elections despite several incidents of violence on voting day itself, which saw four people die in Mindanao.

Garcia underscored the crucial role of teachers and other electoral board members for ensuring the successful holding of the BSKE. “Despite the fact of our limited resources, the teachers were resourceful to push through with the election because we committed that there should be no failure of election in any of the 201,786 precincts in the country, and we stood to that commitment,” he said.

All 201,786 precincts across the country have functioned during this year’s elections, although some polling preEarly voting cincts started late due to several issues Laudiangco reported that many memlike security. bers of the vulnerable sector have parThe Comelec earlier projected the ticipated in early voting, which was

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The OCTA survey showed Romualdez’s satisfaction rating rose by six points from 55 percent to 61 percent, while his trust ratings improved from 54 percent to 60 percent.

Gonzales said the survey results showed Filipinos were aware of the issue due to its wide coverage in mainstream and social media.

“They agreed with the House decision as ref lected in the significant increase in the levels of their trust and their approval of the performance of our leader, Speaker Romualdez,” he said.

Romualdez, for his part, expressed his gratitude to the public for his high ratings but said credit should be given to the collective strength and dedication of all members of the House of Representatives.

“These ratings are not just numbers.

They mirror the dedication and teamwork of the hardworking members of the House,” said Romualdez.

“Every decision made, every bill passed, is a result of our united efforts to serve the Filipino people,” he added.

Romualdez underscored the role of surveys as tools of governance.

Automated polls

Laudiangco said they have yet to receive any complaints on vote-counting machines that malfunctioned during the pilot testing of automated polls in three areas --Barangay Poblacion Zone 2 and Paliparan 3 in Dasmariñas City, Cavite, and Barangay Pasong Tamo in Quezon City.

“So far, no reports yet on machines that failed to function. Rest assured that we are ready to immediately replace them. We have standby machines, in case we need replacement,” the poll body official said.

Laudiangco, meanwhile, said mall voting in several areas in Metro Manila, Cebu, and Bicol was also successful.

“Our mall voting is a blockbuster,” he said. Vito Barcelo

the heart of Gaza City.

It also said it hit “weapons depots, dozens of anti-tank missile launching positions, as well as hideouts and stagnorthern Gaza, including Gaza City, to ing grounds used by the Hamas terrorist head south to avoid its military strikes organization.” as it pushes ahead with a mission to “destroy” the territory’s Hamas rulers.

More aid trucks get through Although huge numbers have left in In the south, more than 30 aid trucks recent weeks, tens of thousands more entered Gaza on Sunday, the largest conare believed to be still in the zone. voy to the war-ravaged Palestinian terriSince Friday, Israeli forces have tory since deliveries began trickling in stepped up their ground offensive as again over a week ago, the UN said. part of the military response to the Oct. The United Nations humanitarian 7 Hamas attacks that officials say killed organization OCHA said 33 trucks car1,400 people, mostly civilians, with an- rying water, food, and medical supplies other 239 people taken hostage. had gone into Gaza on Sunday, through The health ministry in Hamas-run the Rafah border crossing with Egypt.

Gaza says more than 8,000 people, To date, it said, 117 trucks had mainly civilians, mostly civilians and entered Gaza through the crossing more than half of them children, have since limited deliveries resumed to since been killed in Israeli air and the crowded Palestinian territory of ground strikes.

2.4 million people, which is facing a The Israeli army said troops killed near-total siege and relentless Israeli “dozens” of militants in overnight bombardment. clashes, saying they had “barricaded Israel imposed the siege and unthemselves inside buildings and tunnels leashed its massive bombing campaign and attempted to attack the troops”. after Hamas gunmen stormed across In one incident, a fighter jet targeted a the border on Oct. 7, killing 1,400 peobuilding “with over 20 Hamas terrorist ple, mostly civilians, and seizing 230 operatives inside,” while another fighter hostages, according to Israeli officials. jet was guided to an anti-tank missile Israel’s strikes have since then killed launching post in the area of Al-Azhar more than 8,000 people, half of them University, it said. The university is in children, the Hamas-controlled health

ministry in the territory said.

Thousands of buildings have been flattened, with more than half the population displaced.

UN chief Antonio Guterres voiced alarm that Israel was intensifying its military operations in Gaza, warning that “the world is witnessing a humanitarian catastrophe.”

A US government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Sunday that Israel was committed to allowing 100 aid trucks into Gaza daily -- a figure the UN has said was needed to meet the most basic needs.

OCHA welcomed the latest aid deliveries, but stressed that “a much larger volume of aid is needed on a regular basis to prevent further deterioration in the dire humanitarian situation, including civil unrest.”

“In particular, entry of fuel to operate medical equipment and water and sanitation facilities is urgently required.”

Of the 117 trucks allowed in so far, it said that 70 had carried medical supplies and 60 of them brought in food and nutritional items.

Only 13 carried water and sanitation supplies, it said.

And Israel has blocked all deliveries of fuel, saying it would be exploited by Hamas to manufacture weapons and explosives.

voters, Sinson said. Queues even spilled out onto the streets, he said, adding that some voters attempted to vote twice. * The watchdog Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) said it expected a lower turnout of voters as the polling day coincides with the long weekend and holidays this week. PPCRV executive director Jude Liao told the Philippine News Agency at the watchdog’s command center at the Pope Pius XII Catholic Center in Manila on Monday that voter turnout for BSKE is usually lower compared to national elections. PPCRV trustee Agnes Gervacio added that many Filipinos have took advantage of the long weekend and public holidays on Nov. 1 and 2. * Elections watchdog National Citizens’ Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL) said there were “no issues” so far in the pilot testing of automated voting at the Dasmariñas Elementary School in Cavite. The Comelec had identified three pilot areas for the automated election in preparation for the upcoming 2025 BSKE

-- two in Dasmariñas City, Cavite and one in Quezon City. The 2025 barangay elections will be automated nationwide should the pilot testing prove successful in Barangay Poblacion Zone 2 and Paliparan 3 in Dasmariñas City, and Barangay Pasong Tamo in Quezon City, the Comelec said. * Across the country, NAMFREL observers reported that “there has been a high turnout of voters, especially among senior citizens who turned up early outside voting centers prior to the start of voting” in most voting centers.

“In places with low turnout of voters this morning, NAMFREL observers said the numbers may increase as the day progresses,” it added. * In Al-Barka, Basilan, Armed Forces of the Philippines personnel had been requested by members of the election boards to be present at the entrance to polling places to provide security to the EBs. * At the Malaig Elementary School in Balindong, Lanao del Sur, soldiers equipped with tasers were stationed at polling places to main-

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From A1 Garcia said the voter turnout for detainees in the Bureau of Corrections was a high 92 percent, while that in the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology was 77 percent.

He said they expected the counting of votes to finish at about 8 to 8:30 p.m. and the proclamation of winners by 10 or 10:30 p.m.

Also on Election Day:

* Polling at Gregorio Perfecto High School in Tondo, Manila was expected to go beyond the voting deadline of 3 p.m. due to the large number of voters there. School Principal June Hayden Sinson told ABS-CBN News that more than 44,000 voters were expected to cast their votes at the school.

Polling precincts at the school used to service just 10,000 voters but due to the ongoing renovation of the R. Almario Elementary School, G. Perfecto had to accommodate half of the other school’s

PH, Netherlands to boost trade, investment ties

By Rey E. Requejo THE Philippines and the Netherlands have forged an agreement to boost trade and investment relations to complement an already strong partnership on defense.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Dutch Foreign Minister Hanke Bruins Slot on Monday pushed to designate a focal point to carry out both countries’ understanding of economic and technical cooperation.

Slot came to Manila for a bilateral talk with her Filipino counterpart, the first to be taken by a Dutch foreign minister in more than 30 years.

The focal point “would be officials from the Department of Trade and Industry and their Ministry of International Economic Affairs, who would now be sitting down and engaging with each other so as to spur further economic and business-to-business engagement between the two sides,” Philippine Ambassador to the Netherlands J. Eduardo Malaya told reporters.

“We’ve been encouraging this for some time because we had noted that there are the joint bilateral consultations, but mostly doing cooperation on the political security and other fields, and it needed to be complemented by economic cooperation,” Malaya added.

During a joint press conference, Manalo stressed he discussed with Slot the “full breadth” of the two countries’ relations, including trade and investments, cybersecurity and law enforcement, and human rights.

He also discussed with her maritime cooperation, which is anchored on “our common heritage as maritime nations,” as well as the safety and security of Filipino seafarers working in Dutch-owned and -f lagged vessels.

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A1 While barangays are the lowestlevel government unit, the council posts are hotly contested because they are used by political parties to cultivate grassroots networks and build a support base for local and general elections.

More than 300,000 police officers and soldiers were deployed to secure polling stations in over 42,000 villages.

In Manila, voters waited in long lines to cast their ballots at schools being used as polling venues.

“This is important for the people... we need to be able to consult someone over our problems,” said Rosemarie Garcia in the hardscrabble neighborhood of Tondo.

“We need somebody who is easily approachable to his or her constituents.”

Elections are a traditionally volatile time in the Philippines, which has lax gun laws and a violent political culture.

‘Generally peaceful’

Comelec chairman George Garcia said voting had been “generally peaceful” except for several incidents in Mindanao. This assessment was shared by Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. and top police officials. tain peace and order. * In Cotabato City, NAMFREL reported that about 15 percent of EBs at the Vilo Central Elementary School resigned the day before election day due to concerns regarding their security, especially during the counting.

The EBs were replaced by personnel from the PNP. * Also in Cotabato City, at the Kimpo Elementary School, NAMFREL observers were barred by local police from entering the voting center to observe the elections. The observers were told that no media or external observers were to be permitted inside.

NAMFREL said it is verifying other incidents reported in the media that appear to be election-related. * The Manila Electric Co. said the voting period for the BSKE ended at 3 p.m. without any major power interruption. It said minor incidents that were reported were isolated and immediately resolved with the help of Meralco crews strategically positioned across its service area. With Alena Mae Flores

NEWS

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Lawmakers back DOJ plan to sue China on environmental charges T

HE plan of Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla to file environmental charges against China before an international tribunal is getting support from senators.

Lawyer Terry Ridon, convenor of InfraWatch PH and former nominee of Kabataan party-list said he sees nothing wrong with the idea of the Justice chief to use the term “Sea of Asia” in the event the Philippines files a case against China for the destruction of corals and other alleged environmental crimes.

Remulla said the case is expected to be ready for filing early next year.

Senator Jinggoy Estrada is optimistic that the case is being studied thorough-

ly by the DOJ after China was reported to have destroyed corals in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

“Nothing prevents us from filing a legal case, especially based on established international laws and agreements such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS),” Estrada said in a statement released on Sunday.

“What is at stake here transcends territorial claims and disputes, it’s the

environmental degradation and destruction by China, a violation of an obligation under the UNCLOS to protect and preserve the marine environment,” he added.

Senator Grace Poe also assured that she supports the move and will continue to push for a budget increase for the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to better protect the country’s resources in WPS. “We also support the plan of the Department of Justice to lodge a complaint over the destruction of our marine resources, which entails equal if not more focus from concerned agencies,” Poe said in a separate statement.

For Ridon, the country “should main-

tain the use of WPS in areas we deem as our territorial waters and exclusive economic zone, as this clearly defines the bounds of our maritime claim to the exclusion of all other states.”

Ridon said he believes the government led by the Justice Secretary will also seek guidance from the opinions and views of maritime and international law experts on the proposal to change the WPS title to “Sea of Asia.”

Remulla ealier said the term “Sea of Asia” means that the body of water is a shared resource for the whole world, but he clarified that it does not water down the concerns of the Philippines against China.

Maricel V. Cruz and Macon Ramos-Araneta

DPWH excavation to stop to ease Christmas traffic

By Joel E. Zurbano THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has agreed to temporarily halt excavations on Metro Manila roadways to offer relief to commuters and motorists during the Christmas season.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority said it will cooperate with the DPWH to enforce this measure in a bid to ease the anticipated traffic during the holiday rush.

Excavation works that cause obstruction or affect traffic flow will be temporarily suspended from Nov. 13, 2023, until Jan. 8, 2024.

However, the moratorium does not cover certain projects, such as government flagship projects, DPWH bridge repair, flood interceptor catchment projects, asphalt overlay projects, sidewalk improvement, drainage improvement projects, footbridge projects, emergency leak repair, new water service connections, road activities without excavation, and Meralco relocation/emergency works affecting major government projects.

“As part of the national government’s initiative to address the existing traffic congestion in Metro Manila, the MMDA was tasked to spearhead the efforts of all government agencies involved in traffic management,” said MMDA chairman Romando Artes.

The Metro Manila Council, composed of the 17 mayors in the National Capital Region and the MMDA’s governing board, recently approved a resolution stating that “all excavation activities in Metro Manila’s road rightof-way (national or city roads), such as, but not limited to, road re-blocking works, pipe laying, road upgrading and all other excavation works that will cause obstruction or will affect the smooth flow of traffic, including alternate routes identified by this Authority, shall be temporarily suspended effective midnight of Nov. 13, 2023.”

THE CHILD HAUS. Hans Sy, SM Prime chair, leads the 21st-anniversary celebration of the CHILD Haus at the SM Mall of Asia on

Sunday. The CHILD Haus, founded by beauty guru Ricky Reyes, is a charitable organization dedicated to helping children with cancer.

Norman Cruz

Envoy expects more direct US flights to Manila

By Rey E. Requejo US AMBASSADOR to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson on Monday said the Philippines can expect more American carriers flying to Manila following the inaugural direct flight of United Airlines to the country.

Carlson revealed that many other US airlines may follow suit after holding several high-level aviation talks with the Philippine government recently.

“Our engagement with Philippine aviation authorities over the past several months… increasing more opportunities for American carriers to serve the Philippine market,” Carlson said.

The US ambassador was the guest at the arrival event of the United Airlines Boeing 777 jet direct from San Francisco to Manila.

A water canon salute welcomed the plane Monday morning, marking the first time a US carrier will have regular direct flights between the Philippines and the mainland US. Prior to this, United Airlines had flights between Manila, Guam, and Palau.

Department of Transportation Undersecretary Roberto Lim said he is happy with the arrival of what he calls a “historic flight.”

“This is the new non-stop transpacific flight. It is a testament to the strong bilateral relations,” DOTr official said.

United Airlines officials said they decided to have direct flights to the Philippines, even if it is far from the US, because of the close ties between the two countries.

According to them, they have a positive outlook for air travel in the Asia Pacific region, including possible growth traffic in the Philippines. They vowed to offer reasonable fares to the Filipinos.

Disaster agencies set to conduct Q4 nat’l tsunami, earthquake drills in Aurora

By Vince Lopez THE last National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) for this year will be held on November 9 in Casiguran, Aurora in line with the observance of “World Tsunami Awareness Day.” “Fourth quarter NSED is conducted every November in line with the observance of World Tsunami Awareness Day (WTAD) on the fifth of the said month,”

the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said in a statement over the weekend.

The fourth quarter NSED will be livestreamed through the Civil Defense PH and NDRRMC Facebook pages and the program will commence at 8 a.m. to be followed by the ceremonial pressing of the button at exactly 9 a.m.

The OCD and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), meanwhile, called on

the general public to participate in these emergency exercises.

Casiguran, Aurora was chosen as the ceremonial site for the fourth quarter NSED to commemorate the magnitude 7 earthquake that struck the province on August 2, 1968.

Records from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said that tall waves along Casiguran Bay were observed and

tsunami probability was assessed as “positive” with an estimated height of three meters in areas along Casiguran Bay. “Meanwhile, as host of this quarter’s NSED, the earthquake and tsunami contingency plan of the municipality will be demonstrated through a simulation exercise, focusing on an earthquake that generates a tsunami in the coastline of Casiguran,” OCD added.

Solon calls for ‘rifle marketing’ to promote PH as one of world’s top tourist destinations

DOH to parents: Avoid bringing kids to cemeteries PARENTS have been advised to avoid bringing their children to cemeteries this “Undas” when large crowds are expected to visit their departed.

Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro Herbosa also said in a release that children who have weak immune systems could catch communicable diseases from overcrowded places such as cemeteries.

Herbosa, quoted by reports, also added that intense heat and sudden downpours could also harm children.

Despite COVID-19 cases plateauing, the DOH head said that the threat of the disease was still present.

“There are still sporadic cases and increasing cases in some regions,” the DOH said.

The health department further advised those who plan to visit the cemeteries to bring their water and food to prevent poisoning and diseases. The DOH also discouraged bringing salads and other food that could easily spoil due to heat.

“Let us be responsible with our actions and make our visit solemn,” Herbosa said.

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PEACEFUL BSKE. Commission

on Elections (Comelec) chair George Garcia with BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr., visit the Bureau of Corrections at the National Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City to monitor the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE). The elections were generally peaceful, the BuCor reported. Inmates show their forefingers with indelible ink (inset). Manny Palmero and Joseph Muego

QUEZON City Rep. Marvin Rillo wants the Department of Tourism (DOT) to use “rifle marketing” in advertising the Philippines as a preferred destination for foreign holidaymakers and a hub for international meetings, conventions, and exhibitions.

“Rifle marketing” targets individual markets, whereas “shotgun marketing” aims for the entire global market regardless of specific corners.

“We would urge the DOT to consider shifting to rifle marketing – as opposed to shotgun marketing – and to concentrate on our top five suppliers of foreign visitors, namely South Korea, the United States, Japan, China, and Australia,” Rillo, vice chairperson of the House Committee on Tourism, said in a statement on Monday.

“We want the DOT to succeed in bringing in a larger number of foreign visitors because their spending here contributes in a big way to creating new employment opportunities for Filipinos in accommodation, transport, food and beverage services, entertainment, and

other economic activities,” Rillo said.

The DOT plans to spend another P1.26 billion next year to “sell” the Philippines to prospective foreign visitors, according to Rillo, also a member of the House Committee on Appropriations.

“The sum of P1.26 billion has been earmarked for the Tourism Promotions Fund (TPF) in the 2024 National Expenditure Program,” Rillo said.

The TPF is being funded by 25 percent of the national government’s share from the earnings of the state-run Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.

(Pagcor) and 25 percent of the national government’s share from international airport and seaport revenue collections, Rillo said.

The TPF has an allocation of P1.16 billion in the 2023 General Appropriations Law. The DOT figures submitted to Congress showed that a total of 4,038,370 foreign residents arrived in the Philippines from January to September this year. Maricel V. Cruz

Bataan LGU eyeing more Japanese companies to invest in various projects

By Butch Gunio THE provincial government of Bataan through public-private partnerships said it is aiming to partner with Japanese investors for various projects.

Bataan Gov. Joet Garcia said he and his team were recently invited by private firm Property Access Philippines to attend the International Property and Investment Conference 2023 held in Tokyo, Japan a week ago.

Garcia, in the conference, presented various investment opportunities in the province like housing development, digital tokenization, infrastructures, tourism, and health care.

Also joining the team in Japan to entice more investors was the Authority

of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) chairman Pablo Gancayco.

Gancayco said that the AFAB is one of the fastest-growing freeports in the Philippines.

Property Access CEO and founder Hiroki Kazato and other officials also set up meetings between Bataan delegates and the Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism, wherein they discussed how the province can improve digitalization, tourism, and marketing, among others.

The local government of Bataan and Property Access signed a memorandum of understanding on the second day of the conference to attract potential investors, both local and international, for the province.

STRONGER PH-NETHERLANDS PACT. Department of Foreign Affairs

Secretary Enrique Manalo and Foreign Affairs Minister of The Netherlands Hanke Bruin Slot sign a memorandum of understanding during Slot’s official visit to the Philippines.

The two officials discussed bilateral relations and exchanged views on other regional matters of mutual concern. Avito Dalan

NEWS

A4 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2023 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

MAYORS CAST VOTES.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Trenas still in the process of filling up his ballot at the Luis Mirasol Memorial School in Dungon A Jaro, Iloilo City. Inset shows Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte and her father, former Speaker Sonny Belmonte, showing off their tainted fingers indicating they have cast their votes in the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections. Iloilo and QC PIOs

Pasay City police officials probed on messy POGO raid DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. has ordered an investigation on the city’s police chief and the police officers of a substation following a raid on a Pasay City building that allegedly housed a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operation (POGO) and sex trafficking activities.

“It’s impossible for a policeman at the substation not to know this,” Abalos said in a GMA television interview.

“All members of the substation, the substation commander, and people there will for the meantime be relieved pending investigation,” he added.

The raided establishment was near the headquarters of the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Pasay City Hall.

Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin said earlier that they would ask the Pasay City government if it was unaware of the activities at the raided building.

Meanwhile, the Presidential AntiOrganized Crime Commission (PAOCC) said over 300 Chinese nationals, 20 Filipinos, and several other foreign nationals were still being held at the raided building, with 130 other Filipinos having been earlier released.

According to the PAOCC, they would file charges against six Chinese nationals.

“They are teaching the same to our seven female victims of sexual trafficking,” said Philippine National Police-Women and Children Protection Desk team leader Lt. Col. Lucresio Rodrigueza, “Yung Pilipino siya po yung in charge sa aquarium, saka dun sa payment (The Filipino was in charge of the ‘aquarium’ and the collection of payments),” The six whom we are going to charge are the ones who maintain the trafficking hub here inside this facility,” said PAOCC spokesman Winston Casio. Vince Lopez

SLEX, MCX set to raise rates starting Nov. 3—toll board

By Darwin G. Amojelar

T

HE operators of South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and the Muntinlupa–Cavite Expressway (MCX) will implement a toll hike starting November 3, according to the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB).

SMC SLEX Inc. notified the TRB that they will charge motorists traveling from Alabang to Calamba an additional P10 for Class 1, P20 for Class 2 and P30 for Class 3 vehicles starting November 3.

Those travelling from Calamba to Sto. Tomas, Batangas will pay additional P4, P6, and P8 for Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3, respectively.

The TRB authorized last September 12 the collection of the provisional toll

SENATOR Christopher Go advocates better compensation and benefits for barangay health workers (BHWs), considering their critical role in the country’s healthcare system especially in bringing public health services closer to the grassroots.

Go acknowledged the BHW’s sacrifices and contributions at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Unang-una, ito pong BHW, nagpapasalamat po ako sa ating mga barangay health workers. Isa po sila

DISABILITY IS NO REASON NOT TO VOTE. Wheelchair-bound voters with disabilities patiently wait for their turn to cast their ballot at the Legarda Elementary School in Sampaloc, Manila. Danny Pata

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) has assured the public that the government is taking steps to ensure stable prices on basic commodities in the advent of the Christmas, an Agriculture official said.

According to Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa, the close monitoring of basic goods such as onion, garlic, and potatoes in various markets in Metro Manila maintained stable prices.

“According to our records of the average prices in September and October this year 2023, the prices range from P140 to P142 for local red onion, P125 to P130 for local white onion, P120 to P125 for imported white onion, P125 to P140, P140 for imported garlic and P500 for local garlic, respectively,” De Mesa reported.

The Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service conducted daily monitoring of prices in Commonwealth, Guadalupe, Las Piñas, Marikina, Mega Q-mart, Muñoz, Pasay, Pasig, Quinta, San Andres, Muntinlupa and Pritil markets.

However, De Mesa noted an increase in the price of potatoes, which he attributed to the typhoons that hit the country in July and August.

The average price of potatoes now ranges from P200 to P220 per kilogram, up from P160 to P 180 per kilogram in September.

De Mesa assured consumers that the DA is working to address the situation and expects the price of potatoes to normalize soon.

He said that the peak of the potato harvest is expected in the last quarter of this year and the first quarter of next year, which will help to increase supply and bring down prices.

“The peak of harvest within the last quarter this year up to the first quarter of next year-2024 will make a positive impact on the supply and prices of potatoes.”

sa hero ng ating panahon ng pandemya (First of all, I am grateful to our barangay health workers. They are the heroes of the time during the pandemic),” Go said.

To honor their contributions to society, the senator said he filed Senate Bill No. (SBN) 427, known as the Barangay Health Workers Compensation Act, which proposes to provide BHWs a monthly honorarium, along with a comprehensive package of benefits, including allowances, job security, regular training, and skill development opportunities.

the grant of P1,000 per month in hazard pay to all duly appointed members of the barangay tanod brigades. Funding for the hazard pays will be initially be sourced from the budget of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), while its subsequent implementation will be included in the budgets of local government units (LGUs).

Estrada, a former mayor having served the mayoralty position of San Juan for 30 years before getting elected as senator in 2004, noted that while barangay tanods receive the same benefits as other barangay officials, they are given a measly honoraria or allowances

SENATOR Imee Marcos has expressed optimism that bilateral relations with China will continue to grow despite the death of former Chinese Premier Li Keqiang last Oct. 26.

Li reportedly suffered a sudden heart attack and passed away after efforts to revive him at the hospital failed.

His demise came less than a year after stepping down as China’s premier.

In a statement on Monday, Senator Marcos recalled that during the ASEANChina Summit held in Cambodia last year, Li told President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. that “what we have in common far outweighs our differences.

“The lens of history, if not Premier Li’s words, should motivate both China and the Philippines to work towards the peaceful and fair settlement of

issues in the West Philippines Sea,” the statement added.

The lawmaker also recalled the diplomatic relations established by her father, the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos, with Chairman Mao Zedong in 1974, which helped contained local communist insurgency and also initiated an invaluable friendship with China.

“All ideological differences were set aside in the interest of the more urgent concern of peace,” Marcos said.

“As Asians, we should endeavor, through our uniquely Asian ways so well understood by Premier Li, to overcome our differences and instead share a future of development and peace,” she added, citing Li as a “friend of the Philippines who shall be missed.” Macon Ramos-Araneta

Doctors want defibrillators within easy reach of public FILIPINO heart experts are batting for the enactment of a law that mandates the government to place automated external defibrillators (AEDs) within easy access of the people including those in rural areas to dramatically decrease death from heart ailments notably sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).

“SCA or sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a global health threat that can happen to anyone when the heart’s electrical activity beats speedily and abruptly stop. SCA can be precipitated by a heart attack,” the Philippine Heart Association (PHA) said in a statement.

Jinggoy pushes P1k monthly hazard pay for tanods SENATOR Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada has been pushing for the legislation of a P1,000 monthly hazard pay to all duly-appointed barangay tanods.

Estrada stressed that the village watchmen deserve such incentive due to their hazardous duty in ensuring peace and order in the community.

“The barangay tanod greatly contributes to the peace and order, ensuring the safety of their constituents. As frontliners during the Covid-19 pandemic, they spent sleepless nights. So It is just proper to reward their sacrifices,” he said.

Estrada’s Senate Bill No. 794 proposes

By Charles Dantes

Imee says PH, China ties won’t die with ex-Premier Li Keqiang’s death

Go seeks better pay, benefits for barangay health workers

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

rate adjustments for the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) pursuant to the Petitions for Approval of Periodic Toll Rate Adjustments for 2012 and 2014.

This is the 1st periodic toll rate adjustment for SLEX since 2011.

Nonetheless, to protect the general welfare, curb existing inflationary effects, and mitigate the impact of the toll rate adjustments, the TRB ordered that the hikes be implemented in two tranches.

The first tranche takes effect this year, and the second tranche next year.

The TRB also granted provisional toll rate adjustments for MCX pursuant to the Petitions for Approval of Periodic Toll Rate Adjustments for 2018 and 2020 filed by Ayala Corporation.

The TRB however directed that the provisional toll rate adjustments should be implemented on a staggered basis to curb the existing inflationary situation and minimize the impact thereof to the tollway users The first tranche go into effect this year and the second tranche, next year.

For class one, the motorists will be charged an additional P1 from the current toll of P17, while for Class 2 the increase will be P2 from the current toll of P37.

For Class 3, the MCX will impose a P3 increase from the current toll of P55.

Prices of basic goods to remain stable this X’mas season—DA exec

amounting to at least P600 monthly.

“Barangay tanod brigades are community workers that need protection. This proposed measure acknowledges their significant contribution in maintaining peace and order in their locality by providing them with incentives while they continue to carry out official tasks,” Estrada, chairman of the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment and Human Resources Development, said.

“As frontliners, they should receive adequate support and treatment from the government. There is no doubt that they deserve to be given such incentive,” he added. Macon Ramos-Araneta

AED is described as a “sophisticated, yet easy-to-use, medical device that can analyze the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electrical shock, or defibrillation, to help the heart reestablish an effective rhythm.”

Incidentally, the PHA on CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is the lead agency for the yearly observance of World Restart a Heart Day (WRaHD) highlighted by a monthly webinar dubbed Usapang Puso sa Puso (UPP) mediamen and netizens.

The PHA described the event as a “powerful platform to educate the general public on what to do if someone collapses and suddenly

stops breathing.

UPP is held on October 18, followed by the Training of Trainers (TOT) on Oct. 22 which gathers together 165 heart doctors and emergency responders from across the country.

“This year’s UPP WRaHD Special gathered law and heart experts to discuss the state of the AED Bills that have been filed in Congress and Senate. Dr. Don Robespierre Reyes, chair of the PHA Council on CPR, UPP host and Dr. Francis Lavapie, past chair of the PHA Council on CPR, have been at the front lines of the eight-year-old CPR/AED- ReadyPH Campaign since day one,” the statement read.

EX-TOP COP IS AN ORDINARY VOTER. Former

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde (ret.) deposits his ballot for the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections at the Malabanias Integrated School in Angeles City, Pampanga.

Norman Cruz

OPINION Gratitude for enriching experience THE XVI Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops has granted their approval for a Letter addressed to the People of God. This Letter conveys gratitude for their collective journey, outlines the accomplishments of the preceding weeks, and conveys a hopeful message for the future, emphasizing the opportunity for active involvement in the spirit of missionary unity exemplified by the term ‘synod.’

In this letter addressed to the people of God, the Assembly expressed gratitude for the enriching experience, emphasizing their deep communion with all attendees, thanking them for prayers, sharing their expectations, questions, and fears.

This gathering followed Pope Francis’ call for a process of listening and discernment that is inclusive of all members of the People of God. The assembly aimed to “journey together” under the guidance of the Holy Spirit as missionary disciples, dedicated to following Jesus Christ.

The Church should embrace the innocence and energy of children, the enthusiasm of young people, their questions, and their desires The session in which Synod participants have been gathered in Rome since 30 September is an important phase of this process. In many ways it has been an unprecedented experience.

For the first time, at Pope Francis’ invitation, men and women have been invited, in virtue of their baptism, to sit at the same table to take part, not only in the discussions, but also in the voting process of this Assembly of the Synod of Bishops.

According to the letter: “Together, in the complementarity of our vocatjons, our charisms and our ministries, we have listened intensely to the Word of God and the experience of others.

“Using the conversation in the Spirit method, we have humbly shared the wealth and poverty of our communities from every continent, seeking to discern what the Holy Spirit wants to say to the Church today.

“We have thus also experienced the importance of fostering mutual exchanges between the Latin tradition and the traditions of Eastern Christianity.

“The participation of fraternal delegates from other Churches and Ecclesial Communities deeply enriched our discussions.”

The Assembly emphasized the Church’s primary mission is to spread the Gospel by demonstrating God’s boundless love to the world.

Homeless individuals in the vicinity of St. Peter’s Square expressed their hopes for the Church in simple terms: “Love.”

This love, characterized as Trinitarian and Eucharistic, should serve as the passionate heart of the Church, echoing the Pope’s

sentiments and drawing inspiration from Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus.

This call for transformation is grounded in “trust,” which empowers individuals to openly and humbly articulate their shared beliefs, distinctions, aspirations, and questions within the Church.

To advance in its understanding and mission, the Church must engage in active listening, starting with the most marginalized individuals, including the poor.

This necessitates a transformative journey on the part of the Church, one that is rooted in humility and gratitude.

As Jesus expressed in Luke 10:21, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children.”

This involves paying attention to those who have been silenced in society or have felt excluded, even within the Church itself. It means heeding the voices of those who suffer from various forms of racism, especially indigenous peoples in certain regions whose cultures have been disregarded.

Most importantly, the Church of our era has a responsibility to listen, with a sincere intention to change, to those who have been victimized by members of the Church, and to take concrete and structural measures to prevent such abuses from occurring again.

“Is this conversation helpful so far?” the Assembly asked.

Further, “the Church should actively engage with the laity, both women and men, who are all called to lead a life of holiness through their baptism. This includes paying attention to the insights of catechists who often serve as the initial bearers of the Gospel message.”

Additionally, the Church should embrace the innocence and energy of children, the enthusiasm of young people, their questions, and their desires. It should also value the aspirations, wisdom, and collective memory of the elderly.

Furthermore, the Church should be attuned to the needs and concerns of families and appreciate the Christian example they set in today’s society, the Assembly added.

As a final word, the Assembly proclaimed thus: “The world in which we live, and which we are called to love and serve, even with its contradictions, demands that the Church strengthen cooperation in all areas of her mission.

It is precisely this path of synodality which God expects of the Church of the third millennium” (Pope Francis, October 17, 2015).

“We do not need to be afraid to respond to this call. Mary, Mother of the Church, the first on the journey, accompanies our pilgrimage. In joy and in sorrow, she shows us her Son and invites us to trust.

And He, Jesus, is our only hope!”

‘Our turn today, your turn tomorrow’ AT THE entrance of one tombs-filled graveyard in northwest Philippines facing Luzon Bay, there is a spine-chilling signboard on its stone arch in bold “Dakami ita, dakayonto intono bigat.”

Loosely translated into the language of the Thomasites, who arrived in the Philippines in 1901 to establish a new public school system, the sign means “Our turn today, your turn tomorrow.”

Tomorrow, many in the north will visit their respective town cemeteries to mark All Saints Day, followed the next day

by All Souls Day – both to remember members of the faith who have died, especially those believed to be suffering in purgatory.

Through prayers, masses, and alms giving, the living pay tribute to the dead and hope to help them enter into heaven.

Tomorrow, surviving relatives will remember all saints and martyrs during Christian history, followed by All Souls Day to celebrate those who have passed within the faith, in a commemoration called The Day of the Dead, or, in the language of the region, Piesta Dagiti Natay.

Observers of culture say this intriguing event seeks to celebrate the people who are no longer with us on this earthly plane and, according to tradition, will later accompany us from the spiritual stage.

The Christian concept of the importance of the individual soul underlies All Saints Day and All Souls Day, both observed worldwide primarily in the Catholic and Anglican traditions.

Today, there is the Halloween tradition, where ghosts, symbolic of human souls roaming the earth, play an important chapter, underlining the significance of the human soul and its existence beyond death.

This, according to culture buffs, is at the heart of centuries of cultural traditions behind Halloween, called by different names by the different regions of this predominantly Christian country of 114 million from Tawi Tawi in the far south to Batanes up north.

Everybody knows the secular holiday of Halloween. But not everybody knows it derives from a holy day, All Saints Day on Nov. 1, which is followed by All Souls day on Nov. 2.

The root word of Halloween -- ‘’hallow’’ -- means ‘’holy.’’ The suffix “een” is an abbreviation of “evening” and refers to the Eve of All Hallows, the night before the Christian holy day that honors saintly people of the past.

“All Saints is a celebration of the communion of saints, those people we believe are in heaven,” one theologian, the Rev. Richard Donohoe, pastor of Our Lady Queen of the Universe Catholic Church in Birmingham, once said.

All Souls Day is a day to pray for all souls.

Among Catholics, prayers are offered

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2023

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EDITORIAL

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Moment of truth

T’S zero hour for the 13-day climate talks in Dubai starting Nov. 30, the 28th such gathering of world leaders under the auspices of the United Nations known as Conference of the Parties or COP.

In this high-level summit of an expected 70,000 delegates, where the Philippines is ready to present its experience, countries will aim to resolve a new agreement as accelerating climate change threatens the world with costly results.

COP, which also exist for other UN conventions and treaties on issues including desertification and biodiversity, refers to the 198 parties including the European Union that signed the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, originally adopted in Brazil in 1992.

COP has been held every year in different cities since 1995, with the exception of COP26 in Glasgow, which was delayed by a year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Emirati presidency of the COP 28 has stated it wishes to focus on solidarity between the countries of the North and the South, the energy transition, and will ensure the world responds to the Global Stocktake with a clear action plan.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is expected to attend the summit,

We hope the Dubai participants will try to understand not just the paradox of climate change but its impact and what the world can do to address it according to the Climate Change Commission, where the typhoon-prone country of 114 million is ready to deliver its message.

Earlier in June, the President said he was keen to attend the conference, adding climate change is “a primordial issue.”

In a press briefing, CCC Vice Chairman and Executive Director Robert Borje underlined the importance of conveying the experiences and efforts of developing countries like the Philippines.

He highlighted the message from the Philippines will revolve around

the impact of climate change on lives, livelihoods, and the shared future of vulnerable nations and stressed the need for responsible action from the international community to address this life-and-death issue.

It is indeed significant to formulate solutions at the community and personal level by deepening understanding of its impacts as well as identifying possible measures to address it.

As host, the UAE is focused on providing practical and positive solutions that drive progress for climate and the economy, as well as relief and support to vulnerable communities.

Borje told the media: “The messages the Philippines wants to convey will really center on what developing countries, like the Philippines, continue to experience, what we are doing to make sure we are responsible members of the international community.”

The Philippines will also inform the international community what it needs to continue doing “because for countries, like the Philippines and other vulnerable nations, it is a question of lives, livelihood and our shared future.”

We hope the Dubai participants will not just hear or listen to the problems.

More importantly, we hope they will try to understand not just the paradox of climate change but its impact and what the world can do to address it.

PH politics is local THE Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections yesterday could well be a dark page in the kind of politics we have in the Philippines.

I cannot recall anymore how many were killed and injured in the violence during prior and during the campaign period of the BSKE, but newspaper headlines were replete with them.

There were also instances of poll violations like vote buying and the participation of the banned political dynasties.

Santa Banana, the Commission on Elections tagged as many as 361 “danger areas” before yesterday’s poll where killings and shootings were frequent.

These indicate the fierce and intense rivalry for positions in the polls.

My gulay, there were also reports that, like in the case of my home province Abra, teachers who were mandated to safeguard the polls, especially the counting of votes, had to be accompanied by soldiers to go to their precincts where voting and counting of voters were done.

In the case of Cotabato City, over 300 members of the PNP had to augment the local police force because of the incidents of killings and other kinds of violations.

Truly, politics in this country is local.

These indicate that Philippine politics is always local since politicians running for Congress, held every three years, truly depend on who are in control of the barangays.

Likewise, candidates for national positions, like the President, Vice President and senators, also have to depend on local politicians.

It may well be proper to ask: Is there money in BSKE that people have to kill for it?

Is it money they are fighting for since the compensations of Barangay officials and youth officials are miniscule?

It must not be money they are fighting for since there is no money in BSKE positions.

From what I know, what they kill for are not their salaries, but what members

Tomorrow, surviving relatives will remember all saints and martyrs during Christian history, followed by All Souls Day to commemorate those who have passed within the faith for those in purgatory, waiting to get into heaven.

On All Souls Day, Catholic churches

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

of Congress and the Senate can give them, and of course from the supporters of a President and local officials they committed to.

Well. that’s what it is in local politics, and what many of them kill and die for.

What is also of much concern is the proliferation of loose guns in the hands of armies and criminal syndicates being used by barangays and youth politicians.

I recall an eaelier study showed the number of loose guns in the Philippines exceeded that of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the police.

Santa Banana, if this is the case, we need gun control more than ever before and an honest-to-goodness campaign against loose firearms.

Like father, like daughter A politician, whose name I would rather withhold, told me that the waterloo of Vice President Sara Duterte is now what’s happening to her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, who just cannot keep his trap shut.

The father went to the extent of threatening the life of ACT party-list Rep. France Castro, who criticized Inday Sara for allegedly misusing her Confidential Funds and the OVP Funds and spending

as much as P125 million in 11 – or was it 19? – days.

Castro is a member of the Makabayan Bloc who former President Duterte had accused of being communists.

Castro pushed for the realignment of the CIF or Confidential and Intelligence Funds of Inday Sara which she got in this year’s national budget to be realigned to other government agencies which really needs them.

This grave threat of the former President was done over the television network of his spiritual adviser Pastor Apollo Quiboloy.

For this grave threat to kill her, Rep. Castro has filed a case against the former president in the Regional Trial Court of Quezon City, citing the section of the Revised Penal Code which penalizes those who make grave threats to serve the maximum penalty of six months and/or pay no less than P100,000.

As a former President, Duetrte no longer enjoys immunity from suits.

The politician I cited said if and when Sara Duterte runs for the presidency in 2028, this incident of the elder Duterte, who just could not keep his big mouth shut in an effort to defend his daughter and made that grave threat on the life of Rep. Castro, could well be the comparison between father and daughter.

That politician said Inday Sara could be likened to her father, recalling that Sara punched a court sheriff who was ordered to carry out the court order to demolish buildings and houses as ordered by the court to make way for the building of a business establishment.

Sara, who was then Davao City mayor, tried to stop the demolition and thwacked the sheriff in full view of television and media.

“Like father, like daughter,” that politician said with a smile. Read full article on manilastandard.net

have a Book of the Dead, in which parishioners have an opportunity to write the names of relatives to be remembered.

The ‘’Dia de los Muertos,’’ or ‘’day of the dead,’’ in Latin countries keeps alive some of the tradition of honoring souls of the dead.

“All Hallows was considered a time when evil could manifest itself,” Donohoe said.

“We do believe in the visible and the invisible. There is good and there is evil.

There is invisible evil and invisible good.

It’s an acknowledgment of that existence.”

In Europe, Samhain was a Gaelic festival of the dead marking the end of the harvest and the beginning of the darkest time of year, a time when the spirit world was more closely aligned to the physical

world. In the Americas, church ritual mixed with native celebration of ancestors.

Mayans, Incans and other Native Americans had great reverence for the dead and ancestor worship was culturally important.

That tradition blended into the Catholic holy days of the dead.

In many Latin countries, Nov. 2 is a national holiday -- the Day of the Dead, or Dia de los Muertos, the climax of the Days of the Dead.

It’s the climax of three days of celebration: All Hallow’s Eve, All Saints Day and All Souls Day. People often dress as skeletons as a way of remembering the dead and celebrating their ancestors. Read full article on manilastandard.net

Inday Sara could be likened to her father, recalling that Sara punched a court sheriff who was ordered to carry out the court order to demolish buildings and houses as ordered by the court to make way for the building of a business establishment

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Gaza militants launch rockets from Lebanon

EIRUT, Lebanon—Palestinian group Hamas, embroiled in war with Israeli forces in Gaza, said its militants in south Lebanon had launched rockets towards Israel, in a fresh escalation along the border.

B

A second Islamist group announced rocket launches at Israel’s north, while powerful Iran-backed movement Hezbollah—a Hamas ally—said it had shot down an Israeli drone over Israeli territory using a surface-to-air missile.

Cross-border exchanges have become an almost daily occurence since October 7, when Hamas militants stormed southern Israel and killed more than 1,400 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli officials.

Israel has responded with an unrelenting bombardment of Gaza, which the Hamas-run health ministry says has killed more than 8,000 people, also mostly civilians.

The Israeli army on Sunday reported launches from Lebanon which it said targeted areas near the border.

NOTICE OF DEED OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL Israeli forces SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF LIBRADA had returned ARLEGUI DOLLOSO WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS fire towards the Notice is hereby given to the of the public that the Deed of Extra origins Judicial Settlement of the the Intestate Estate of Librada launches, Arlegui Dolloso With Waiver of army added.

Rights has been executed by and among her heirs, namely: ofCrisostomo A. Dolloso, Elenita Lebanon’s D. Arlegui, Evangeline D. Brusola ficial National and Eleanor D. Dela Paz, as per Doc. No. 495/496; Page No. News Agency 100/101; Book No. V; Series of 2023 of the Notarial Register/ (NNA) reported Book of Atty. Raul R. Corro, Notary Public for and in the City that the Israeli air of Muntinlupa. force carried out (MS-OCT. 17/24/31, 2023)

several raids on south Lebanon towns.

Hamas’s military wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades said in a statement its fighters in Lebanon had launched 16 rockets at Nahariya, a coastal town Israel’s Galilee region, “in response to the crimes of the occupation (Israel) against our people in Gaza”.

The armed branch of Islamist group Jamaa Islamiya also said it had fired “targeted rockets” at the Israeli border town of Kiryat Shmona, the NNA reported.

Shiite group Hezbollah said it had targeted multiple Israeli army positions, also announcing the death of one of its fighters on Sunday.

Since October 7, cross-border violence has killed at least 59 people in Lebanon according to an AFP tally.

Most were Hezbollah fighters, although there have been four civilians among the victims, including one journalist.

Israeli officials have reported four deaths, including one civilian.

There are fears that if Hezbollah were to launch its own war with Israel, the conflict could spill over into the wider region.

Nearly 29,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon due to the clashes, according to the International Organization for Migration. AFP

DEFENSE CONFERENCE. China’s Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission Zhang Youxia (left) and Russia’s Defense

Minister Sergei Shoigu arrive at the Xiangshan Forum in Beijing on Monday for the meeting of representatives of 90 countries taking part in this week’s Xiangshan Forum, a gathering of military and diplomatic officials billed as its answer to the annual Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. AFP

China, Russia senior officials warn foreign forces BEIJING, China—Top Chinese and Russian officials warned Monday that foreign forces were seeking to sow turmoil in Asia and beyond as they opened an international defense conference in Beijing.

Beijing has billed this week’s Xiangshan Forum as its answer to Singapore’s Shangri-La Dialogue and says that representatives of 90 countries are taking part, including Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu.

China is holding the forum without a sitting defense chief, having abruptly announced the sacking of minister Li Shangfu last week without explanation.

Speaking at the conference’s opening ceremony, Zhang Youxia, one of China’s most senior military officials, painted a grim picture of the international outlook, blaming countries he did not name for the turmoil.

“As we look across the world today, hotspot issues are arising one after another. The pain of war, chaos and turmoil, and loss of life are constantly playing out,” Zhang said.

“Some countries, for fear that the world may stabilize, deliberately create turmoil, interfere in regional issues, interfere in other countries’ internal affairs, and instigate color revolutions,” he said.

“Behind the scenes, they hand out knives and think nothing of provoking people into wars, ensuring that they’re the ones who benefit from the chaos,” he added.

But Zhang also said China was seeking to improve military-to-military ties with the United States, with whom tensions have soared over the disputed South China Sea and Beijing’s drills around the self-ruled is-

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION REGIONAL TRIAL COURT BRANCH 230, QUEZON CITY

Deadly strike on journalist was intended, says monitor

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR THE ALLOWANCE OF THE WILL OF MARIA NIEVES M. PANGANIBAN-PATACSIL, CASE NO. R-QZN-20-08291-SP NILO C. MERCADO, Petitioner, x----------------------------------------------x

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters Testamentary having issued in the above-entitled case in favor of NILO C. MERCADO, FE M. CABRERA and MA. MODESTA MERCADO, it is hereby ordered that notice be, and the same is hereby given, to all persons having claims for money against the decedent, MARIA NIEVES M. PANGANIBANPATACSIL, arising from contracts, express or implied, whether the same be due, not due, or contingent; for funeral expenses or expenses for the last sickness of said decedent; and judgment for money against him, requiring them to file their claims with this Court sitting at Room 707, 7th Floor, Hall of Justice Annex Building, Quezon City Hall Compound, Quezon City, within a period of six (6) months after the 1stst publication of this NOTICE. SO ORDERED. (Sgd.) MARIA GILDA T. LOJA-PANGILINAN Presiding Judge Copy Copy furnished: furnished: Atty.

Atty. Francisco Francisco J. J. Rivera Rivera NISCE NISCE MAMURIC MAMURIC GUINTO GUINTO RIVERA RIVERA & & ALCANTARA ALCANTARA LAW LAW OFFICES OFFICES Counsel Counsel for for the the Petitioner Petitioner 8th Floor, 139 Corporate Center 8th Floor, 139 Corporate Center 139 139 Valero Valero Street, Street, Salcedo Salcedo Village, Village, Makati Makati City City Nilo C. C. Mercado Mercado Nilo Petitioner Petitioner 14 14 Violet Violet Road, Road, Pilar Pilar Village, Village, Las Las Piñas Piñas City City Maria Nieves Nieves M. M. Panganiban-Patacsil Panganiban-Patacsil Maria (deceased) (deceased) No. No. 19 19 11th 11th Jamboree Jamboree St., St., Brgy.

Brgy. Sacred Sacred Heart, Heart, Quezon Quezon City City Marina M. M. Arita Arita // Vicenta Vicenta C. C. Mercado Mercado Marina 14 Violet Road, Pilar Village, Las Piñas City 14 Violet Road, Pilar Village, Las Piñas City Jose Jose Maria Maria Ilagan/Michelle Ilagan/Michelle Hernandez/Elizabeth Hernandez/Elizabeth L. L. Quinto/ Quinto/ Ricaredo Ricaredo Banea Banea No. 19 11th Jamboree St., Brgy.

Sacred Heart, Quezon No. 19 11th Jamboree St., Brgy. Sacred Heart, Quezon City City Fe Fe M. M. Cabrera Cabrera 1031 1031 Craig Craig Street, Street, 1015 1015 Sampaloc, Sampaloc, Manila Manila Maria Modesta Modesta M. M. Mercado/Ma. Mercado/Ma. Teresa Teresa M. M. Mercado Mercado Maria 82 82 Road Road 1, 1, Proj.

Proj. 6, 6, 1105 1105 Quezon Quezon City City Nuncia Rivera Nuncia Rivera 15265 15265 Sherbrooke Sherbrooke St., St., San San Diego, Diego, California California 92139 92139 Eriberto Mercado Mercado Eriberto 8928 Arborale Lane West, University Place, Washington 8928 Arborale Lane West, University Place, Washington 98466 98466 Belen Belen M. M. Medina Medina 8811 8811 Littlestone Littlestone Drive, Drive, San San Gabriel, Gabriel, California California 91776 91776 Josefina C. C. Mercado Mercado Josefina 67 67 CC CC Santos Santos BF BF Homes, Homes, 1720 1720 Parañaque Parañaque City City Luz C. Sagala Luz C. Sagala 20 20 Cleveland Cleveland St., St., Royale Royale Tagaytay Tagaytay Estate, Estate, Alfonso, Alfonso, 4123 4123 Cavite Cavite Roberto M. M. Caraos Caraos Roberto Brgy.

Zone 6, Taal, 4208 Batangas Brgy. Zone 6, Taal, 4208 Batangas Maria Maria Antonia Antonia M. M. Sadler Sadler PO PO Box Box 1233 1233 Perry Perry Florida, Florida, USA USA 32348 32348 Cecilia M. M. Mijares Mijares Cecilia 1904 Redwood Road, Hercules California 1904 Redwood Road, Hercules California 94572 94572

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION REGIONAL TRIAL COURT BRANCH 230, QUEZON CITY IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR THE ALLOWANCE OF THE WILL OF MARIA NIEVES M. PANGANIBAN-PATACSIL,

LOOKING FOR JEWS. This frame grab taken from video footage posted on the Telegram channel @askrasul on Sunday shows protesters on the apron area of an airport in Makhachkala. A mob looking for Israelis and Jews overran the airport in Russia’s Caucasus republic of Dagestan, after rumors spread that a flight was arriving from Israel. AFP

60 nabbed after mob storms airport in Dagestan MOSCOW, Russia—Russian police on Monday said they had arrested 60 people suspected of storming an airport in the Muslim-majority Caucasus republic of Dagestan, seeking to attack Jewish passengers coming from Israel.

Dozens of protesters, many of them chanting “Allahu akbar” (editor’s note: God is great, or God bless you), broke through doors and barriers at Makhachkala airport on Sunday, with some charging onto the runway.

Nine police officers were injured while trying to restore order and two of them were admitted to hospital, the interior ministry said.

The violence prompted Israel to call on Russia to protect its citizens, while the United States condemned the “anti-Semitic protests”.

Flight tracking website Flightradar24 indicated that a Red Wings flight out of Tel Aviv had landed at Makhachkala at 7:00 pm on Sunday.

The independent Russian media outlet Sota said it was a transiting flight that had been due to take off again for Moscow two hours later.

The governor of Dagestan, Sergei Melikov, promised that those responsible would be punished, and the republic’s interior ministry said later that 60 people had been arrested.

Petitioner, x----------------------------------------------x

ORDER

(Sgd.) HON. MARIA GUILDA LOJA-PANGILINAN Presiding Judge (MStandard - Oct. 31, 2023, Nov. 7 & 14, 2023)

“More than 150 active participants in the unrest have been identified, 60 of them have been arrested,” the ministry said in a statement early Monday.

“The airport is now totally under the control of security forces,” it added.

Russia’s aviation agency initially said the airport would remain closed until November 6 but then announced it would reopen on Tuesday.

Several local Telegram channels showed photos and videos of dozens of men waiting outside the airport to stop cars.

One protester appeared in the videos holding a sign that read “Child killers have no place in Dagestan.” AFP

PARIS, France—A Reuters journalist killed in southern Lebanon two weeks ago and others wounded in the same incident were deliberately targeted, a Reporters Without Borders investigation released on Sunday said.

Video journalist Issam Abdallah died and six other journalists were wounded -- including two from AFP, one of them seriously—in strikes the village of Alma al-Shaab in southern Lebanon on October 13.

“The initial findings of the investigation show that the reporters were not collateral victims of the shooting,” the media watchdog Reporters Without Borders said.

“One of their vehicles, marked ‘press’, was targeted, and it was also clear that the group stationed next to it was journalists.”

The journalists believe they were hit by fire coming from the Israeli side of the border.

The RSF initial findings did not explicitly blame Israeli forces, but said that according to ballistic analysis, the shots came from the east, the direction of the Israeli border.

The RSF probe established that two strikes 37 to 38 seconds apart hit a spot where a group of seven journalists had been for more than an hour.

The first strike killed Abdallah, the second, more powerful, ignited the vehicle used by Al-Jazeera, and injured several journalists. AFP

As Otis toll climbs to 48, Mexicans slam government’s rescue response

CASE NO. R-QZN-20-08291-SP NILO C. MERCADO,

On 14 September 2023, executors Nilo C. Mercado, Ma. Modesta M. Mercado and Fe. M. Cabrera took their oath and Letters Testamentary was issued in their favor.

Pursuant to Rule 86 of the Rules of Court, issued a Notice to Creditors to be published once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks successively in a newspaper of general circulation and be posted for the same period by the branch Deputy Sheriff of this Court in four (4) public places in Quezon City, including the lobby of the Quezon City Hall and at the bulletin board near the entrance of this Sala, and in two (2) public places in the barangay where the decedent last resided.

Within ten (10) days after the last publication and posting of the Notice to Creditors, the executors are hereby directed to file in Court a printed copy of the notice accompanied with an affidavit setting forth the dates of the first and last publication thereof and the name of the newspaper in which the same is printed.

Set this case for compliance/monitoring hearing on 14 May 2024 at 1:30 in the afternoon, before this Court, sitting at 7thth Floor, Room 707, Hall of Justice Annex Building, Diliman, Quezon City, and all persons filing their claims against the estate are hereby required to appear on said date.

SO ORDERED. Quezon City, Metro Manila, 18 September 2023.

land of Taiwan.

“We are also willing to develop China-US military relations in accordance with the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation,” he told delegates.

Speaking after Zhang, Russia’s Shoigu also warned that Washington was seeking to provoke instability in Asia.

“Having provoked an acute crisis in Europe, the West is trying to expand the crisis potential in the Asia Pacific,” he told delegates.

“Direct involvement of countries with nuclear arsenals multiplies the strategic risks,” he said.

“The West’s line towards escalation with Russia poses a risk of direct conflict between nuclear powers, which will result in catastrophic consequences,” Shoigu added. AFP

RISING DEATH TOLL. Aerial view of damage caused by Hurricane Otis

in Puerto Marques, Guerrero State, Mexico, with the death toll now at 48, which caused widespread power outages while victims critizied their government’s response.ed. AFP

ACAPULCO, Mexico—Acapulco was struggling Sunday (Monday in Manila) to recover from the extraordinarily powerful Hurricane Otis, which claimed 48 lives across southern Mexico and provoked widespread power outages and criticism of the government response.

“We are going to fight for ourselves,” Margarita Carmona told AFP after chopping up fallen trees along with her son-in-law and other residents in the Puerto Marques neighborhood.

They, like many in this port city and tourist haunt of 780,000, grew tired of waiting for government aid, which only began being distributed Saturday -- days

after Category 5 Otis roared ashore and left local landmarks built over decades look like they had been bombed out.

After the hurricane hit Wednesday, a feeling of abandonment flooded the residents, including Julian Matadama, a 52-year-old construction worker, who banded together with other locals to clear debris.

“We are in need of help,” he said.

But after widespread water, power and telecommunications outages, they face a tough road ahead.

“There is no way for you to feed yourself, there is no way to drink water,” added a fisherman, standing next to him. AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

BUSINESS

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2023

B3

extrastory2000@gmail.com

s share Oil prices slip as investor worries inChina’ factory jobs on Israel’s full Gaza incursion ease to rise further H ONG KONG, China—Oil prices fell Monday as Israel stepped up ground attacks on Hamas targets in Gaza but held back from a full-on incursion, fanning hopes a wider conflict can be avoided.

Equities were mixed ahead of a Federal Reserve policy meeting this week, with traders fearing it will likely keep interest rates elevated for an extended period as inflation remains stubbornly high.

Crude pared Friday’s almost three percent gains as Israel’s military continued air and ground operations in Gaza,

though it took a more cautious approach than feared.

Instead of a broad offensive, officials have opted for targeted attacks on a day-to-day basis, tempering worries of an all-out war that could drag in Iran and even the United States.

The White House urged Israel to protect innocent Palestinians in Gaza by

distinguishing between Hamas militants and civilians, while the United Nations warned that “civil order” was starting to collapse in the territory.

Thousands of civilians have been killed on both sides since the conflict was triggered by an unprecedented attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7.

The threat of a wider conflict remains, with Iran saying the battle could “force everyone to take action”, while US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said there was an “elevated risk” of a spillover.

But observers said there was a sense of relief among investors for now, eas-

ing crude supply worries and taking some pressure off prices.

“The weekend showed the armed conflict remains limited to Israel and Gaza -- in that light, crude looked overbought,” Vandana Hari, of Vanda Insights, said.

Crude will “likely continue sliding until the next risk event”.

Equity markets struggled at the open to build on Friday’s rally in Asia, but some reversed course in the afternoon or pared their losses.

Tokyo sank one percent, while Hong Kong, Sydney, Jakarta and Wellington were also in the red. AFP

Small businesses ask gov’t to grant 3-year tax relief

By Othel V. Campos SMALL business owners asked the government to provide tax relief to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Members of the Philippine Franchise Association (PFA) are seeking at least three years of tax relief to allow MSMEs to catch up and recover from three years of pandemic.

“If you invest in an LGU [local government unit], I think it’s only right for them to give MSMEs three to five years of tax relief. If they can give tax holiday to other companies, why not to MSMEs,” PFA chairman Sherill Quintana said in an interview during the 3-day International Franchise Expo held on Oct. 27 to 29, 2023 at the SMX Convention Center Manila.

She said taxes paid to the national government and the LGUS are among the bottlenecks experienced by small entrepreneurs in growing their businesses.

Quintana said franchisors would consider it a big deal if the government would provide tax breaks to PFA members.

She said the Philippines could learn from the Singaporean government’s efforts to help their own brands by giving them three to five years of tax relief until they fully recovered from the spoils of the pandemic.

The government can also extend support to MSMEs through trade fairs. Private sector-led trade fairs are usually more expensive compared to government-sponsored trade fairs that are usually free for select MSMEs. The PFA is extending lower priced booths for MSME upstarts who are expanding through franchising.

“To help build the economy, revive the economy, we need support,” Quintana said.

The International Franchise show was the biggest held in the Philippines since 2011. More than 1,000 brands participated in the event from more than 350 local and international participants.

Asia is expected to be the next biggest venue for international brands and franchises, according to the PFA.

MINISTERS’ MEETING. Japan’s Minister of economy, trade and industry Yasutoshi Nishimura (right) and Minister for foreign affairs Yoko Kamikawa (center) attend the G7 trade ministers’ meeting in Osaka on Oct. 29, 2023. AFP

NGCP lauds DILG for crucial role in completing transmission projects

By Alena Mae S. Flores TRANSMISSION operator National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) said Monday the Department of Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) support played a very important role in the completion of several critical transmission projects.

“Considering the urgency of our projects, we greatly appreciate DILG’s support to fast track the release of the needed permits,” NGCP said in a statement.

NGCP said the DILG supported and extended assistance in coordinating with local government units (LGUs) affected by several critical transmission projects.

The company said the department helped secure 26 building permits from affected LGUs which are traversed by the Mindanao-Visayas Interconnection Project.

Its assistance was also crucial in securing 42 building permits, 45 locational clearances and 8 barangay clearances for the completion of the Hermosa-San Jose 500kV Line,

NGCP said.

“The usual chokepoints for our projects are the procurement of right-of-way and the issuance of permits from local governments and other government agencies. While we have been diligent in completing the items needed from us to secure the required clearances, timely permit processing unfortunately remains one of the bigger stumbling blocks to on-time project completion,” NGCP said.

NGCP lauded DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos who went as far as appointing assistant secretary Odie Pasaraba “who has been invaluable to us in our coordination with the LGUs.” NGCP said there is a need for a whole-of-government approach in pushing for the completion of projects in the energy sector.

NGCP said that from planning to implementation, with timely action from the regulator, holistic planning within the power sector, and support from other relevant government agencies, it is confident of its capability to build a smart and resilient power grid.

Foodsphere warns firms against using trademark ‘Holiday’ FOOD manufacturer Foodsphere Inc., behind the brand CDO, warned other companies against using the trademark “Holiday” which it said it owns.

Foodsphere said in a notice to the public it is the registered owner of the trademark “Holiday” and has been using it in its food products, particularly on Christ-

mas hams, since the 1970s.

“Usage of the said trademark amounts to infringement of the company’s intellectual property rights, as well as unfair competition, as defined under Sections 147 and 1688, respectively of Republic Act No. 8293 or the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines,” Foodsphere

FOOD SHORTAGE. A man checks his mobile phone at his stall amid food shortages at the National Public Market in Panama City on Oct. 29, 2023. After several days of protests in Panama against the contract with Canadian mining company First Quantum and its subsidiary Minera Panama, food shortage is beginning to be felt at the main public market in Panama’s capital. AFP

said in a statement.

“In this connection, demand is made upon all food manufacturers, distributors, retailers, restaurants and other establishments to immediately cease and desist from using ‘Holiday Ham’,” Foodsphere said.

CDO Foodsphere corporate affairs and communications head Patricia Magbanua said the company is dedicated to consumer protection.

“It is our utmost priority to ensure that our loyal customers receive the brand and quality they expect when purchasing our products. We’ve built trust around the ‘Holiday’ brand for decades, and we are committed to safeguarding it not just for our company, but for the consumers who have trusted us throughout the years,” said Magbanua.

“When a consumer picks up a product labeled ‘Holiday’, they should be confident in the consistency, quality and reputation that comes with the CDO Foodsphere name. We are taking this matter seriously to protect not only our intellectual property but also the integrity of our offerings to our valued consumers,” she said.

WASHINGTON, United States— China’s share of global manufacturing jobs will increase by 2050, according to a study out Monday, even as the United States and European Union aim to be less reliant on its products.

The Asian giant’s share of global manufacturing jobs will rise to 43 percent of the total by that year -making China one of the only countries to see growth in such jobs during that time, according to a study by the Washington-based Center for Global Development.

Major Western economies seriously questioned their reliance on China for goods as bottlenecks clogged global supply chains following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Delays and price increases fueled a wave of inflation which is still affecting the global economy, prompting the European Union and United States to implement a risk-reduction strategy concerning China.

The United States is also keen to limit China’s advancement in the production of cutting-edge technology, such as semiconductors necessary for the development of artificial intelligence.

Rich countries are likely to continue to lose manufacturing jobs, with the sector falling from 11.4 percent to 8.3 of the high-income workforce by 2050.

Manufacturing jobs are expected to hold steady across low-income countries at below 8 percent of total employment.

In fact, these countries are expected to see jobs shift from agriculture to the service sector, without experiencing a major transition in industrial jobs.

“This doesn’t mean that poor countries will never escape poverty. New technologies and the shift to services which can be easily delivered across borders can be transformative,” said Ranil Dissanayake, a senior fellow at CGD and an author of the study. AFP

Burned out, but better WHEN I graduated from college in GREEN 2005 with a double major in behavioral science and marketing manageLIGHT ment, my future lay ahead of me.

My supportive parents told me that AMANDO L.V.C. CLEMENTE III I could be anything I wanted to be.

I knew exactly what I wanted to become as soon I stepped out of PICC wearing my toga. As early as then, I wanted to become the head of a multinational corporation. I knew I had to work my way up, and I was ready to do so. Or so I thought.

I handed out my resume both physically and virtually to a number of large companies but was rejected multiple times. I wanted a career in human resources, but the big corporations were looking for experience. So, I stepped back and joined a mid-sized international organization that gave this eager kid a chance. It was a great place to start and learn the ropes, and I moved up the ranks more quickly than most. The company had a very good culture, but I wanted more. You could say I was greedy, and the size and name of the company mattered to me. After earning a couple of years of HR experience, I took a shot again at the big multinationals.

This time, I got into one of the biggest outsourcing companies in the country. With a Philippine workforce of 30,000 at the time, it was as big as it gets. I had to start a few levels lower than the last position had at my previous employer, but I didn’t mind. The targets were miles away from what I was used to, and the work was ten times more. Work hours were hellish, and the workload was too much to handle.

But I was determined. I worked for almost twelve to fourteen hours every day without receiving overtime pay and went to the office, even on Saturdays, just to finish work. The environment was toxic, and workplace politics was rampant. I neglected all these issues even though I shouldn’t have had. I was dead set on reaching my goals. I wanted to become a manager and run my own team at all costs. So, I said yes to everything my supervisors and managers told me to do, and my mentors gave me no advice. They never checked how I was doing, how I felt, or if I was happy. I just did what I had been told to do without complaining. My superiors liked me because I obeyed without asking why.

I climbed the corporate ladder and became a supervisor myself. With my team, I did what my supervisors had done with me. I expected my direct reports to work the way I used to work. I never asked how they were or if they were all right. I pushed and pushed to reach our targets.

Then, one day, it happened. I burned out. I was so stressed and tired, and without any hesitation or a new job, I resigned.

After I left that company, I had idle time for the first time in my life. I had a chance to clear my head and think. I wasn’t young anymore. I asked myself, was the hardship all worth it? I also asked myself, had I given my team members the support they needed? What kind of a manager had I become? Had hitting the KPIs given to me become more important than my team’s physical and mental well-being?

It hit me then and there that I had been able to achieve what I had wanted, where I wanted, but I was not happy. In fact, I was miserable. I was on top, but everyone under me suffered. I was part of a sad corporate cycle that had a poor culture and cared only about profits. To be continued.

The author is an MBA freshman at the Ramon V. Del Rosario College of Business of De La Salle University. He wrote this reflection paper for his class on Lasallian Business Leadership, Ethics, and Corporate Social Responsibility. He can be reached at amando_clemente@ dlsu.edu.ph.

The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.

B4 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2023 Roderick T. dela Cruz, Editor Alena Mae S. Flores, Assistant Editor business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com

BUSINESS

British bank expects BSP to maintain policy interest rate at 6.5% this year

By Julito G. Rada HONGKONG and Shanghai Banking Corp. said over the weekend it expects the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to maintain the monetary policy settings in its last two meetings of the year as inflation would likely remain manageable.

“Moving forward, we think the BSP will keep its policy rate steady at 6.50 percent in the November and December Monetary Board meetings. After all, core inflation is still threading downwards, which means the BSP’s tight monetary stance is already in the works,” HSBC said in a report.

The BSP raised the policy rate by 25 basis points to 6.5 percent in an offcycle move last week to rein in inflation.

“Since the off-cycle hike is pre-emptive in nature, we don’t think the BSP will hike interest rates in its November rate-setting meeting, even if the Fed hikes in November,” it said.

The BSP maintained a very hawkish tone and will likely continue doing so because of its openness to resume tightening if inflation continues to be sticky, HSBC said.

BSP Governor Eli Remolona said last week monetary authorities would likely opt for a 25-basis points increase, if another rate adjustment would be warranted next month.

“If there is a hike, [it’s] more likely 25 [basis points] than 50, but [it] depends on the data…if there is a hike,” Remolona told reporters Friday.

“The likely scenario is… I’m not sure 25 would be justified. There is a good chance we won’t hike. There is a good chance we will pause. There is a chance we might hike, but 50 [bps] is a bit of a stretch,” Remolona said.

Remolona said local monetary authorities decided to raise the policy rate by just 25 basis points to 6.5 percent on Thursday, instead of a bigger 50 basis points, because they were waiting for more data.

INAUGURAL FLIGHT. United Airlines

pilots and crew pose with US and Philippine flags to mark the first San Francisco-Manila flight arrival. The new daily and direct service makes the route more accessible and convenient for tourists, business travelers and returning overseas Filipinos. The inaugural trans-Pacific United flight carried 325 passengers.

Angat hydropower plant to be shut down T

By Othel V. Campos

HE Angat Hydro-Electric Power Plant (AHEPP), the power component of Angat Dam in Bulacan province, will be shut down for a two-month repair, its operator said Monday.

Angat Hydropower Corp. advised consumers to take the necessary steps to conserve water during the shutdown of the 218-megawatt power plant which consists of four 50-MW turbine-generator units and several auxiliary units.

AHPP is the power component of the Angat Dam located within the Angat

Watershed Forest Reserve in Barangay San Lorenzo (Hilltop), Norzagaray, Bulacan about 58 kilometers northeast of Manila. The dam supplies more than 90 percent of Metro Manila’s potable water needs and is the source of irrigation for 25,000 hectares of farmlands in Bulacan and Pampanga.

State-run Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS), however, assured the public there would be continuous supply of raw water in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite and Rizal provinces throughout the plant shutdown.

AHC announced a major repair and rehabilitation of the plant’s penstock in conjunction with the modernization of the power plant. It said the rehabilitation aimed to prolong the lifespan of the plant to ensure a stable water supply for domestic use and irrigation.

AHC said it would implement a total plant shutdown (TPS) of AHEPP for 61days from Nov. 6, 2023 to Jan. 6, 2024.

The MWSS said it coordinated with concessionaires Manila Water Company Inc. and Maynilad Water Services Inc. to create a set of comprehensive guidelines on the operation of the Angat Dam spillway and low-level outlet.

Members of the Interagency Technical Working Group on Angat Dam Operations and Management including the National Water Resources Board (NWRB), National Power Corp. (NPC), National Irrigation Administration (NIA), MWSS, Maynilad, Manila Water and AHC agreed on the implementation of the guidelines.

Maynilad and Manila Water agreed to

Gov’t endorses 16 RE projects for grid study

CHILD-LABOR FREE.

The National Council Against Child Labor (NCACL) led by Labor Undersecretary for Workers’ Welfare and Protection Benjo Santos Benavidez (center) and partners raise their hands to affirm their commitment toward achieving a childlabor-free Philippines during the fourth anniversary of the NCACL’s institutionalization at the Quezon City Hall Risen Garden on Oct. 19, 2023.

Citicore Group, Chinese firm sign deal for supply of 700-MW solar modules

By Alena Mae S. Flores CHINESE manufacturer Trina Solar signed an agreement with the Citicore Group for the supply of 700 megawatts (MW) of solar modules to help ramp up the country’s solar capacity and renewable energy targets.

Under the agreement, MCC-Citicore Construction Inc., the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) arm of the Citicore Group, will purchase highpower, high efficiency Vertex DE21 solar modules for Citicore Renewable Energy Corp.’s (CREC) solar plants for delivery in 2024.

work with the MWSS to ensure steady supply of water for domestic use and for irrigation during the shutdown.

The MWSS noted that the water level of Angat Reservoir was at 209.48 meters as of Sunday, near its normal highwater level (NHWL) of 210-meters.

The Department of Energy (DOE) said the scheduled repair and rehabilitation of AHEPP would not affect the power supply to the Luzon grid.

“Relative to our preparation for El Niño, hydropower plants are expected to run at reduced capacity. Thus, repair of AHEPP would not have an impact to the grid,” said DOE assistant secretary Mario Marasigan.

The power plants form part of CREC’s 1,000-MW project pipeline for the first year leading towards its goal of 5,000 MW in five years. The procurement will help build its RE capacities related to the Department of Energy’s Green Energy Auction Program (GEAP).

“The procurement of PV panels from Trina Solar is part of our efforts to secure high-quality and efficient technology for our projects. This will help us move towards our goal of 1GW per year of RE capacity as per our commitment to the Filipino people,” CREC president and chief executive Oliver Tan said.

Trina Solar Asia Pacific president Todd Li and MCC-CCI president Alreetz Santander signed the supply agreement at Trina Solar’s headquarters in Changzhou, China.

Vertex is Trina Solar’s flagship product range, and the Vertex DE21 is a 670W+ mono-facial module.

Vertex modules are compatible with TrinaTracker’s smart trackers, delivering high customer value, reliability, energy yield with a lower levelized cost of energy (LCOE) and lower balance of system (BOS) cost.

“This agreement marks our second col-

laboration with CREC. We are pleased with this opportunity to work together again and it is testament to CREC’s trust in us and our smart energy solutions.

Through the successful implementation of this agreement, we look forward to strengthening our relationship with Citicore and continuing to work closely together to help the Philippines transition to renewable energy,” Li said.

Trina Solar’s first project with CREC was the deployment early this year of solar PV modules for its 125-MW Lumbangan solar power plant and 72-MW Luntal Solar Power Plant in Tuy, Batangas.

Globe taps Nokia to install compact, modern antennas in South Cotabato

By Darwin G. Amojelar

FLI SERVICE DESK. Property developer Filinvest Land Inc. (FLI) aims to strengthen its customer service by addressing concerns quickly and directly via on-site mobile service desks. Attending the launch of the company’s mobile service desk at Sorrento Oasis, a medium-rise residential building in Pasig City, are (from left) service desk manager Ryan Brunidor, assistant vice president-service desk head Blanche Obciana and assistant vice president for operations Miguel Suerte.

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said Monday it tapped Nokia to deploy state-of-the-art sustainable antennas in South Cotobato, the first of at least 50 installations planned this year to support network expansion and enhancement of mobile services.

Nokia produced the Interleaved Passive Active Antenna (IPAA+) for Globe as a sustainable, low footprint and high capacity 4G/5G antenna to support smooth site upgrades across the country.

“Through this innovation, Nokia will help us lessen our cost of energy and carbon emissions. Kudos to Nokia for collaborating with our Globe engineers to come up with this new solution. That’s the kind of partnership we can be proud of,” said Globe chief sustainability and corporate

communications officer Yoly Crisanto.

Using state-of-the-art antenna interleaving technology, the IPAA+is a compact solution, saving some 1.5 meters of tower height space.

Globe said it does not increase the wind load on the tower, speeding up site acquisition and making deployment easier and faster. The impact on the cell site is minimal, as tower reinforcement and construction works are typically not needed, reducing the environmental impact during site modernization and the deployment of 5G. The world-first testing of the 2.6 GHz IPAA+variant in Tantangan, South Cotabato showed a 5-percent improvement in efficiency compared to legacy antennas.

As the IPAA+enables a wider coverage area, it also has the advantage of supporting more end-users.

THE Department of Energy (DOE) endorsed 16 renewable energy projects for a system impact study by grid operator National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP).

The endorsed RE projects have a combined capacity of 4,371.393 MW, with offshore wind projects accounting for bulk of the capacity.

The DOE so far endorsed to NGCP 96 projects for system impact study since January with a total capacity of 25,511.066 MW. An SIS determines the capacity of the power grid to accommodate the additional capacities and identify necessary improvements needed such as additional transmission lines, transformers or substations.

The biggest among the 16 projects endorsed to NGCP is Domhain Earth Corp.’s 1,830-megawatt (MW) Calatagan offshore wind farm in Batangas and Occidental Mindoro.

This is followed by Galea Offshore Wind Corp.’s 600-MW Aurora offshore wind project in Aurora province and Fuego Renewable Energy Corp.’s 555-MW offshore wind project in Sorsogon.

The DOE also endorsed the projects of Citicore Group, including Citicore Solar Quezon Inc.’s 98.67-MW Pagbilao 1 solar project in Quezon, Citicore Solar Pampanga 1’s 42-MW Arayat solar project in Pampanga and Citicore Solar Pangasinan Inc.’s 125.24-MW Sta. Barbara 1 solar project in Pangasinan.

Other endorsed projects are Xyris Energy Corp.’s 89.22-MW Linglingay solar project in Isabela province and Fgen Power Ventures Inc.’s 57.165-MW Inara solar project phase 3 and 46.2 MW Inara solar phase 2 in Tanuan, Batangas.

The DOE also approved the conduct of the SIS for First Max Power International Corp.’s 50-MW Pulupandan wind project in Negros Occidental and the 150-MW Bago City wind project in Bago City, Negros Occidental.

It also endorsed Mindanao Cleanenergy Inc.’s 45.55-MW Gumalang solar power project in Davao City, Intramuros Solar Energy Corp.’s 70.786-MW Gamu solar project in Isabela and Rizal Wind Energy Corp.’s 100-MW wind project in Rizal province.

Also on the list of endorsed projects are Nivos Wind Energy Corp.’s 500-MW Diwata 2 wind project in Quezon province and FDC Green Energy Corp.’s 11.5-MW Misamis solar project in Misamis Oriental.

Alena Mae S. Flores

SPORTS

TUESDAY,, OCTOBER 31, 2023

C1

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

Santo Tomas chessers undefeated in 1st round DEFENDING champion University of Santo Tomas closed out its firstround assignments undefeated after dominating Far Eastern University, 3-1, in Round 5 of the UAAP Season 86 Men’s Chess Championship at the FEU Tech Gym in Manila on Sunday.

The Male Woodpushers of UST now have nine match points, courtesy of four wins and one draw.

Ateneo De Manila University finished second after the first half of the season with seven match points while University of the Philippines took third place with five match points due to a superior tiebreaker over FEU. Season 85 co-MVP Juliues Gonzales [4/4] remained UST’s immovable rock as he has now won four games in as many matches after forcing Arena International Master Jarvey Labanda [0/2] to resign after 29 moves of a London System, playing the white pieces on Board 4.

FIDE Master Christian Mark Daluz [3/4] also scored a win on Board 1 over Hans Olorosisimo [1/5], while National Master Chester Reyes [4.5/5] secured his fourth win in five matches with a victory against National Master Christian Olaybal [3.5/5] on Board 3.

Erstwhile undefeated Melito Ocsan Jr. [4/5] was the lone fatality for UST after a 32nd move blunder led to a sudden checkmate at the hands of FIDE Master Jeth Morado [4/5].

Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila University zoomed to second place after a 4-0 shutout win over Adamson University.

Paul Mathew Llanilo [2/2], National Master Jasper Faeldonia [3/5], Christopher Kis-ing [2.5/5], and Tristan Cervero [2/4] all scored wins over Arena FIDE Master Alfonso Olendo [0.5/5], John Rocel Simon [0.5/5], Matt Joseph Ramos [1.5/5], and John Frederick Sunga [1/2] on Boards 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively.

UP, on the other hand, concluded the first round of action with a 2-2 split against De La Salle University.

Veteran JRU guard slowly getting into game shape VETERAN guard Ry de la Rosa is getting back in game shape following his last two appearances in the games of the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers in the 99th National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament at the FilOil-EcoOil Arena in San Juan.

The younger brother of Magnolia Hotshots cager Rome de la Rosa is finally contributing important points that are helping the Heavy Bombers get in contention for a Final Four slot.

“I’m getting there. I just have to continue to work and do extra work,” said De la Rosa.

On Sunday, De la Rosa shot 12 points, including crucial ones in the remaining minutes of JRU’s 79-74 win over the Arellano Chiefs.

Jonathan Medina’s assist to De la Rosa and the latter’s basket off Joshua Guiab’s rebound play in the final 22 seconds gave the Heavy Bombers enough room to post their second straight win and snatch the no. 3 spot in the team standings with their 8-4 win-loss record.

It was Dela Rosa’s second game after he sustained an injury during the opener against the Letran Knights last September 24, which was won by the Heav y Bombers in overtime, 85-79.

Peter Atencio

Ry de la Rosa

POSITIONING BATTLE. Terrafirma’s Andre Duremdes (right) and Northport’s JR Alabanza jockey for better rebounding position during their teams’ clash in Leg 3, Season 3 of the PBA 3x3 at the Ayala Malls’ Fairview Terraces on Monday.

Filipinas move on from defeat, vow to fight harder next time

By Peter Atencio

T

HE Philippine National Women’s Football Team still fought hard in their 0-8 setback to Australia.

But the Filipinas vowed to fight harder in their next game in the ongoing second-round matches of the 2024 Asian Football Confederation Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Perth, Australia.

National coach Mark Torcaso said this following the end of their game, played before a soldout crowd at the Optus Stadium.

“The girls fought really hard. It will always be a tough game against the top 10 teams in the world,” said Torcaso.

Despite the loss, the Filipinas’ chanc-

es to make it to the next round are still good as they remained in second spot behind the Matildas in Group A, with their 1-0-1 win-draw-loss card.

The Philippines can still advance if they hurdle Iran on Wednesday at the Perth Rectangular Stadium.

“We knew it (game with Australia) will be a tough battle. But we didn’t want to just sit it out,” said Torcaso.

He said the girls valued the experience they got in taking on Australia as it was more of an opportunity for them to experience such challenges.

Tokyo Olympic veteran Samantha Kerr played inspired as she and Caitlin Foord scored hat tricks for the Matildas.

Kerr was inspired to play as the State Football Centre in Western Australia was renamed in her honor.

The fired-up Matildas’ team skipper knocked in goals in the 19th, 45+2 minutes of added time, and in the 46th Filipinas coach Mark Torcaso minute.

Kingslayers: New Era Hunters rule PSL 21U tournament

Members of the victorious New Era University Hunters pose with team officials and supporters after capturing the Pilipinas Super League 21 Under championship in Quezon City recently. NEU photo

KING Gallardo hit a clutch three-point shot in the closing seconds to lift the New Era University Hunters to a pulsating 63-61 victory over the San Juan Kings in the 21 Under championship of the Pilipinas Super League at the Central Recreational Fitness Center Gym inside the NEU compound in Quezon City recently.

Vincent Nablo was named Most Valuable Player after leading the Hunters with 20 points and 7 assists.

Other than the title-clinching 3-pointer, Gallardo also provided solid backup for NEU with 19 points and 9 rebounds.

Defense, said Hunters coach Jay Agsalud, was the key to their title-clinching victory that helped negate a slew of turnovers early in the game.

“The players’ bond and camaraderie, traits that make up the team’s culture, were also instrumental,” said Agsalud.

Nablo, meanwhile, thanked the NEU community for its support throughout their PSL run.

IRONMAN 70.3 Davao 2024 to unveil new course THE IRONMAN 70.3 Davao will make its highly anticipated return on Aug. 11, 2024, promising a new racing experience featuring a revamped course that would test the triathletes in fresh, exciting ways.

The centerpiece of the course is the brandnew Davao City Coastal Road, a scenic backdrop to what looms to be a riveting event with top and rising endurance racers from around the world expected to challenge the new layout featuring the 1.9 km swim parallel to the coast, 90 km bike leg towards the MacArthur Highway and back to coastal road for the grueling closing 21.1 km run.

The combination of the new route and the stunning coastal road guarantees an amazing racing experience, one that would push triathletes to their limits and at the same time showcase the natural beauty of Davao City.

As the 10-month countdown to the blue-ribbon event began, anticipation and excitement were building among athletes and fans alike, all eager to be a part of this new chapter in

the history of IRONMAN 70.3 Davao, which hosted the top tri-sport event at Azuela Cove last March.

Davao City, chosen for its exceptional management, accessibility and breathtaking landscape, eagerly embraced the event.

Princess Galura, regional director of the organizing IRONMAN Group Philippines, praised the city’s strong partnership and infrastructure, ensuring a seamless staging of the event.

“We have worked with many other host cities, other people. But our partnership with Davao, we feel and remain strong,” said Galura during the signing ceremony in Davao City last Oct. 25.

Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the event’s role not only in promoting sports tourism but also the well-being of residents.

“This (IRONMAN 70.3) is one of the examples why are we strengthening sports tourism because Davao City is very big. I think the IRONMAN 70.3 is a very prestigious event for such kind of activities,” said Duterte.

Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte (center) and IRONMAN Group Philippines regional director Princess Galura (right) hold the M Dot (IRONMAN) token after the two sides firmed up their partnership for the staging of the IRONMAN 70.3 Davao next year. With them is Municipality of Sta. Cruz Mayor Jose Nelson Sala, Sr.

SPORTS

C2 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2023

Embiid scores 35 in dominant effort as Sixers maul Blazers LOS ANGELES—Joel Embiid unleashed a dominant performance with 35 points, 15 rebounds, seven assists, six blocked shots and two steals on Sunday in Philadelphia’s 126-98 NBA rout of Portland.

The reigning NBA Most Valuable Player delivered what 76ers coach Nick Nurse called a “super dominant” showing, lifting the Sixers to victory in their season home opener.

“He’s always exceptional,” 76ers guard De’Anthony Melton said. “He’s always amazing for us. When he’s playing like that, he’s the best player in the league every night.”

The 29-year-old Cameroonian big man made 12-of-22 shots from the floor, including 2-of-4 from 3-point range, and sank 9-of-11 from the free throw line in 29 minutes.

“That’s my job, try to get better every single day,” Embiid said. “It starts on defense, having that mentality to play it, lock down everything and block everything and offensively just trying to make the right plays.

“It’s all about taking care of business. We got the win. I’m excited about that. We’ve still got a long way to go.”

The haunting thing for 76ers’ rivals is Embiid insists he must improve.

“I’ve still got to get better,” he said. “I had a bad turnover toward the end. I had three of them. That I can correct. I missed some passes and defensively I could have done a better job. But I’m happy.”

Tyrese Maxey added 26 points and 10 rebounds while Tobias Harris scored 24 to spark the Sixers, who expect to have unhappy guard James Harden back at practice on Tuesday.

Harden, a former MVP and threetime scoring champion who led the NBA in assists last season, hasn’t played this season.

The 34-year-old guard has tried to get into shape and took part in a pregame walkthrough on Sunday, with Nurse saying Harden has done well in conditioning.

Harden sought a trade in vain in the off-season and said his relationship with club officials can’t be repaired.

Defending champion Denver improved to 3-0 as two-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic had game highs of 28 points and 14 rebounds to lead a 12895 blowout at Oklahoma City.

Michael Porter Jr. added 20 points and Jamal Murray had 19 for the Nuggets. AFP

Cool Smashers eye 4th victory, HD Spikers test Chargers Games Tuesday

(Filoil EcoOil Arena) 2 p.m. – Chery Tiggo vs Gerflor 4 p.m. – Farm Fresh vs Creamline 6 p.m. – Cignal vs Akari

UNBEATEN Creamline expects to hurdle another winless rival in preparation to a three-game grind against teams stacked with talents even as Cignal tries to recover lost grounds versus a surging Akari side in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference elims back at the Filoil EcoOil Arena in San Juan Tuesday.

Coming off a pair of 3-0 romps over the HD Spikers and the Gerflor Defenders, the Cool Smashers look to sustain their drive back to the top of the record field on a team that continues to get better and stronger despite the loss of two key anchors of its champion squad.

Creamline faces Farm Fresh at 4 p.m. after the 2 p.m. opener between Chery Tiggo and Gerflor while Cignal and Akari mix it up at 6 p.m.

Games can be streamed on Pilipinas Live and PVL.ph and are telecast on One Sports, One Sports+, and SMART Livestream app, according to the organizing Sports Vision.

“The opportunity to play is very important. Yung mga bench players namin, talagang pang-first 6 din,” said Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses in underscoring the team’s depth. “We are now looking at what is best for the team.”

“It’s a good problem for us coaches, but we still have to play consistent to be able to dish out good games,” added Meneses, whose wards will face Petro Gazz on Nov. 9, F2 Logistics on Nov. 14 and PLDT on Nov. 18.

Verstappen claims record F1 win to draw level with Prost M

EXICO CITY—World champion Max Verstappen drew level with Alain Prost on 51 Formula One victories on Sunday when he claimed his record 16th triumph of the season at the Mexican Grand Prix.

Starting from third on the grid, the Red Bull driver stole the lead at the start and then dominated the race, which was punctuated by a lengthy red flag stoppage when Kevin Magnussen crashed heavily in his Haas.

The 26-year-old Dutchman came home 13.875 seconds ahead of a revitalised Lewis Hamilton, who started sixth, with pole-sitter Charles Leclerc taking third place ahead of his Ferrari team-mate Carlos Sainz.

Lando Norris finished a glorious fifth for McLaren after an enthralling drive through the field from 17th on the grid, ahead of George Russell in the second Mercedes.

It was Verstappen’s fifth win in Mexico and his record-equalling 18th

podium finish this year while the luckless Leclerc, who collided with Sergio Perez’s Red Bull at the first corner, endured his 11th successive failure to convert pole into a victory.

Perez spun off, recovered and retired, much to the disappointment of his home Mexican fans in a big crowd at the high-altitude Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.

“It is just incredible,” said Verstappen. “To win from P3, is just amazing. I started P3 and the car was really great. It was a very strong race and now I don’t know—more wins, maybe 17 or 18!”

Hamilton, who was disqualified after finishing second in the United States a week earlier, said: “I feel fresh. I was pushing, but not crazy hard. It is a great

result, considering we started sixth.

This is a great result for us in a difficult few weeks.”

Leclerc noticed “a lot of booing” from the crowd and explained his part in Perez’s exit.

“I had nowhere to go. I was between the two Red Bulls. Checo damaged my car and it ended his race. It was not on purpose.”

Daniel Ricciardo finished a creditable seventh for Alpha Tauri ahead of Oscar Piastri in the second McLaren, Williams’ Alex Albon and Esteban Ocon of Alpine.

Verstappen’s fast start Verstappen made a sensational start, powering between the Ferraris to take the inside line after the 800-metre rush from Turn One. Sensing a chance, Perez went three abreast with Verstappen and Leclerc, but clipped the Ferrari’s front wing and bounced off.

To loud groans, he rejoined, limped to the pits and retired, beating his steering wheel in frustration while Leclerc

continued with a flapping front wing which soon fell off.

The stewards noted he was driving in an “unsafe condition” and decided to investigate after the race.

“I went for it,” said Perez, accepting the blame. “There wasn’t room for three cars. In hindsight, I should have backed off, but it’s my home race.”

By lap 20, Verstappen led by 4.6 seconds before pitting for hards, handing the lead to Leclerc.

He rejoined seventh behind Russell and swiftly rose to fifth as his rivals pitted before Kevin Magnussen crashed heavily at Turn Nine to prompt a safety car.

The Dane escaped, apparently unhurt, but his blazing Haas was wrecked, as Verstappen led a charge for cheap pit-stops and retained his lead before the race was red-flagged.

After a 20-minute interlude to clear the debris, the race resumed with a standing start, which Verstappen, on hards, nailed ahead of Leclerc as Hamilton on mediums looked for a gap. AFP

Red Bull Racing’s Dutch driver Max Verstappen is greeted by the checkered flag as he wins the Formula One Mexico Grand Prix at the Hermanos Rodriguez racetrack in Mexico City.

AFP

PNVF Challenge Cup lures 37 squads THE Philippine National Volleyball Federation holds the Challenge Cup that’s bursting at the seams with 37 teams—20 men and 17 women—starting on Monday (November 6) at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

“This is the biggest local volleyball tournament that will help highlight the season-long activities of the federation,” said Ramon “Tats” Suzara, president of the PNVF. “And with such a big turnout, we’ll be having dozens of matches for almost three weeks of the competition.”

The Challenge Cup will hold its eliminations from November 6 to 9 and 13 to 19 with the quarterfinals sched-

uled November 20 for the men and 21 for the men, semifinals on November 22 and finals on November 23.

Those sum up to 76 matches—48 men and 36 women—according to Suzara, who added that there will be at least six matches a day and in some days, seven games.

Originally intended to be purely local government unit (LGU)-based, the Challenge Cup, Suzara said, enticed school teams and clubs from all over the country.

“This shows how active volleyball is in the developmental, LGU and school level,” Suzara said. “Volleyball could now rank as the No. 2 team sport in the

country after basketball.”

Confirming their participation in the men’s division are Plaridel (Quezon), Orion (Bataan), University of Batangas, University of Santo Tomas, Rizal Technological University -Basilan and Savouge.

Completing the men’s roster are Cignal, Davao City, Iloilo D’Navigators, VNS, Volida, Philippine Navy and Tacloban City and school teams Arellano University, University of the East, Jose Rizal University, Santa Rosa City, National University, Emilio Aguinaldo College and Marikina City.

Davao City, University of Batangas, Arellano University, Volida, Tacloban

City, JRU and RTU-Basilan are also fielding teams in the women’s division, which includes Parañaque City, Philippine Air Force and Tagaytay City.

Collegiate squads from De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, San Beda University, University of the Philippines, UP Volleyball Club, De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, Lyceum of the Philippines University-Batangas and Colegio de San Juan de Letran complete the women’s category.

The Challenge Cup precedes the season-ending Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge which features the world’s top beach volleyball teams set 0n November in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

Lady Falcons march to Shakey’s Super League semifinal round ADAMSON cruised to the Final Four with an easy 25-21, 25-18, 2515 win over Arellano in the Shakey’ Super League Collegiate Pre-Season Championship quarterfinals over the weekend at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila.

All players, except for the liberos, racked up the scoring board in a scattered attack as the Lady Falcons maximized their win-once bonus to make a return semifinal trip in the SSL backed

by Mikasa, Eurotel, Victory Liner, Summit Bottle Water, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, R and B Milk Tea, Potato Corner, Rebel Sports, Converge ICT Solutions, Genius Sports and United Auctioneers, Inc. Adamson finished third in the inaugural season and found no trouble replicating its feat in only 83 minutes with 13 players scoring led by Maria Rochelle Lalongisip’s eight points.

Ayesha Juegos, Jen Villegas and Antonette Adolfo chipped in seven points each, skipper Lucille Almonte had five while Lorence Toring and Jimy Jean Jamili added five points apiece.

“We’re so happy and grateful na nakapasok po kami sa semis. Nakabawi po kami at naibigay po namin ‘yung best as a team. Ngayon, mas naibig-

Games on Saturday 11 a.m. – CSB vs UST 2 p.m. – UE vs AU

Red Bascon of Adamson dives to to keep the ball alive in the Shakey’ Super League Collegiate Pre-Season Championship quarterfinals as her teammates look on. Roman Prospero

ay po namin ‘yung laro namin,” said Game honors on five hits and two aces.

Juegos, who claimed the Player of the The Lady Falcons will face reign-

ing champion and undefeated National University, which also made short work of the University of the East with a 25-19, 25-21, 25-23 win in the other quarterfinal pairing.

Also barging into the Final Four was Far Eastern University after trouncing Ateneo, 25-19, 25-18, 2518, to arrange a knockout semifinal match against either NCAA champion College of St. Benilde or University of Santo Tomas.

St. Benilde forced a deciding game against UST, equipped with a twiceto-beat advantage, in their quarterfinal duel after a thrilling 25-22, 23-25, 1825, 25-23, 15-11 win.

The rubber match is set this Saturday at the same venue to complete the Final Four cast of SSL Season 2 in cooperation with the Commission on Higher Education and the Philippine Sports Commission.

UE and Arellano, as well as Ateneo against the loser between St. Benilde and UST, will tussle in the classification matches for 5th-8th spots before the semis and the best-of-three finals.

ENTERTAINMENT

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2023

C3

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

Promising Vivamax star Apple Dy casts a seductive spell in ‘Tuhog’ Apple Dy (top) banners Vivamax’s latest offering ‘Tuhog’ together with Arron Villaflor

I

By Nickie Wang

N A bold step forward, budding actress Apple Dy has taken the lead role alongside Arron Villaflor and Joko Diaz in the latest Vivamax film, Tuhog, directed by GB San Pedro.

The film, as described by Villaflor, marks a departure from the typical Vivamax productions that often center on intimate scenes, offering a unique narrative twist.

“We took a different approach to making a Vivamax film,” Villaflor said during the press conference for the sexy drama action film.

For Dy, a model and aspiring singer, Tuhog represents a significant milestone in her career as it grants her the opportunity to shine in a leading role. She has previously been involved in various projects for Vivamax, a popular streaming platform known for its primarily adult-oriented content.

Dy expressed her gratitude towards San Pedro, Villaflor, and Diaz, emphasizing their professionalism and the comfortable working environment they provided, particularly when filming delicate scenes.

“They were very professional, and they all made me feel comfortable while doing every intimate scene in the movie.

They asked for consent, and we rehearsed everything before filming the scenes,” she said.

The plot revolves around a soldier portrayed by Villaflor, who embarks on a mission and is believed to be deceased.

Dy’s character finds solace in Diaz, who plays the role of Villaflor’s character’s father in the film. As they bond while mourning their perceived loss, they are confronted with the shocking revelation that Villaflor’s character is, in fact, still alive.

Model and rising actress Apple Dy

The cast of ‘Tuhog’ during the film's press conference

Struggling with the aftermath of a traumatic mission, the trio must navigate the complexities of their relationships, creating a compelling narrative that promises to captivate audiences. Tuhog offers a refreshing take on storytelling within the Vivamax portfolio and showcases Dy’s ascent as an actress to watch.

The film promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of love, loss, and the human spirit, with a touch of intrigue to keep viewers engaged. As Vivamax continues to diversify its content, Tuhog represents a compelling addition to the platform’s growing repertoire.

Tuhog, which also stars Dyessa Garcia, Andrea Babierra, Billy Villeta, Billy Jake Cortez, Kier Legaspi, Bon Ivann Lo, Niño Aquino Mendoza, Manu Respall, and Carlene Aguilar, is now streaming on Vivamax.

Kim Chiu extols Maricel Soriano’s generosity and talent in ‘Linlang’ KIM Chiu is full of admiration for Maricel Soriano as they collaborate on the drama series Linlang, produced by Dreamscape and ABS-CBN, currently available for streaming on Prime Video.

Kim expresses her appreciation for Maricel, also known as “Inay,” and praises her for her generosity and kind-hearted nature.

“She’s very generous. She gives us a lot of things, especially me because we have the same shoe size. I’ve received a number of expensive shoes from her. She also has lots of food in her room which she shares with us. We would just go there to have a chit-chat, and that’s it,” she says.

When it comes to their work together, Kim acknowledges Maricel’s seriousness and brilliance as an actress. She admits to feeling nervous when filming scenes with the esteemed Diamond Star, given her extensive experience in the industry.

“Whenever we have scenes together, I feel nervous. Considering her stature in the industry, she has done a lot of acting vehicles over the years.”

Kim is particularly excited about one of her dream scenes with Maricel that has already taken place.

“We just shot a scene in which she slapped me! That’s part of my bucket list, and I’m glad it already happened. Better watch out for that explosive scene.”

Kim expresses her gratitude for the opportunity to work with Maricel, highlighting her as a brilliant actress who

‘Linlang’stars Kim Chiu (left) and Maricel Soriano

remains down-to-earth and generous with her talent, especially to younger stars like Kim. “She’s a brilliant actress, and yet, she’s very down-to-earth. She’s generous in sharing her talent, especially with stars like us whose stay in the industry is not even half of hers. I’m simply hats-off to her!”

In addition to Maricel, Kim shares the screen with Paulo Avelino and JM De Guzman in the series. She offers insights into her experiences working with these two actors.

“JM is not really the talkative type.

He’s into gaming, and hooked on Mobile Legends.

But whenever I invite him to eat, he stops

playing, and it’s then that we’re able to have a conversation. As for Paulo, I haven’t worked with him yet, so I didn’t have any idea at first. Then, I discovered that he also doesn’t talk that much. I was initially scared, but as it turned out, he’s very nice. He opens up when you talk to him,” Kim concludes. *** Meanwhile, Piolo Pascual reveals that he initially demanded a high talent fee for his role in the movie Mallari, which is produced by Mentorque Productions and is an official entry in the upcoming Metro Manila Film Festival.

“The price is unusually high, the ‘take it or leave it’ type, which other producers won’t bite,” he admits.

He explains the reason behind this high fee, pointing to the complexity of the character he portrays, which requires him to play multiple roles.

“The character I play is very difficult.

It’s like buy one, take three. I even had to play another character in one scene. So, I did four. It was really mind-boggling for me.

It was a bit of a stretch. But it was a good exercise at the end of the day because we were able to pull it off and, you know, pull through because of the collective effort.”

Piolo is grateful that the producer accepted his offer without haggling, as he wouldn’t have accepted a lower fee due to the challenging nature of the role.

“Yes, because if they haggled, I wouldn’t accept it. It’s a really complex role. I’m glad they accepted,” Piolo states.

Prime Video brings BTS concert movie to PH BTS: Yet to Come will be available on Prime Video in the Philippines and more than 240 countries and territories worldwide starting November 9.

The concert took place in October 2022 when the sevenmember band performed in Busan, South Korea. As a part of Busan’s World Expo 2030 bid, the concert was held at the Asiad Main Stadium with approximately 50,000 people in attendance. BTS features RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook.

The concert film, produced

by HYBE, CJ 4DPlex, and Trafalgar Releasing, will include 19 performances of their hit tracks, such as “Dynamite,” “Butter,” “RUN,” “MIC Drop,” “Yet to Come (The Most Beautiful Moment),” and more.

Touching speeches, electrifying stages, spectacular fireworks, and more will be palpable as consumers get a concert-like experience by watching BTS: Yet to Come on Prime Video. Prime Video consumers can enjoy the captivating show from anywhere, anytime, and rewatch it on their compatible devices.

“We know the popularity of high-quality Korean content worldwide and we look forward to delighting consumers around the globe with BTS: Yet to Come. We are excited to see the concert movie and this genre find new audiences from different countries on Prime Video,” said David Simonsen, director of Prime Video Southeast Asia.

Prime Video is available in the Philippines for just P149 per month.

Global supergroup BTS

‘Freddy’s’ terrifies box office with huge opening

‘Five Nights at Freddy's' starring actor Josh Hutcherson

NEW horror film Five Nights at Freddy’s shot to the top of the North American box office this pre-Halloween weekend, taking in an estimated $78 million – a frighteningly good opening for a film also available via streaming.

Freddy’s take, reported by industry watcher Exhibitor Relations, made it an instant winner for Universal Pictures and Blumhouse Productions, which spent just $20 million to make the video gamebased film – which is also streaming on Universal’s Peacock service.

Josh Hutcherson stars as a down-atthe-heels security guard working nights at an abandoned family entertainment center,

where creepy animatronic characters spring murderously to life after dark.

Down a notch after leading the box office for two weeks was Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour, at $14.7 million.

The film, chronicling three of the superstar’s concerts, has taken in $149.3 million in North America and $53 million abroad, making it the first concert film ever to pass the $200 million mark globally.

In third place, also down one spot from its debut last weekend, was Martin Scorsese’s history-based epic Killers of the Flower Moon, at $9 million. Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert

De Niro, and Lily Gladstone star in the dark story about the 1920s murders of Native Americans by evildoers coveting their oil wealth.

The faith-based documentary After Death, which looks at people’s near-death experiences, took in $5.1 million for Angel Studios. The film comes only months after the small Utah-based studio released its first big hit, Sound of Freedom, which has grossed more than $230 million.

In fifth, down two spots, was Universal’s horror film Exorcist: The Believer, at $3.1 million. Leslie Odom Jr. and Ann Dowd star in this sequel to the 1973 original. AFP

LIFE

C4 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2023 Nickie Wang, Editor Angelica Villanueva , Writer E-mail: lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

Aerial view of the island paradise

The author, along with other members of the press, enjoys the waters of Diatoy Island, one of the islands under the care of Club Paradise

Expansive beachfront in front of the Sunset Villas

More than just a paradise

I

Club Paradise is a sustainable oasis in the heart of Coron in Palawan

N THE ever-evolving landscape of travel, Club Paradise Palawan stands out as a shining example of how the industry can provide authentic and meaningful experiences for modern-day wanderers.

Situated on a private island in Coron, Palawan, this resort offers guests a chance to reconnect with nature, embrace Filipino culture, and support sustainable practices.

As you step onto the island resort, you’ll be transported to a realm untouched by the bustling crowds of modern tourism. With its 19-hectare property, the resort has carefully preserved the island’s natural beauty, leaving the majority of it pristine and undeveloped. As a result, guests can enjoy a truly secluded and immersive experience, even when the resort is at capacity.

In an exclusive interview with Manila Standard Life, Joegil Magtanggol Escobar, General Manager of Club Paradise, shared insights into how the resort manages its sustainable oasis and involves the local community in its mission to protect the environment while providing guests with a memorable island retreat.

Escobar emphasized Club Paradise’s commitment to sustainable practices, noting that the resort has eliminated single-use plastics, replaced them with refillable bottles of purified water, and even uses corn starch-based plastics for garbage disposal, utensils, and packaging.

The resort also has a dedicated farm that provides

fresh, seasonal ingredients for its restaurants, and food scraps are converted into natural fertilizers and pesticides.

“Sustainability is not merely a buzzword; it is a deeply ingrained moral obligation. For years, we have passionately embraced the cause of preserving the pristine beauty of our island. Our dedication to this mission has led us to make remarkable changes, starting with the elimination of single-use plastics from our premises,” Escobar said.

Beyond its internal operations, Club Paradise also oversees the conservation of two neighboring islands and educates both visitors and locals on the importance of protecting the delicate ecosystem.

As a result of its unwavering commitment to sustainability and community, Club Paradise has received recognition from the government and acclaim from guests alike. It is a testament to the new direction of travel, offering a glimpse of the beauty that can be found when balancing luxury, nature, and responsibility “The island’s natural beauty is the driving force behind our community engagement campaigns and informative signage. It’s our moral obligation to protect and enhance the environment, as it’s not just a marketing strategy but our commitment to sustainable practices. We are truly blessed with this island, a secluded paradise that offers topnotch services everywhere,” Escobar underscored.

Club Paradise Palawan’s appeal transcends borders, with a diverse clientele that varies

Guests can also try Coron’s diving activities

depending on the season. While Filipinos make up 50 percent of the visitors, the other half includes Europeans, Americans, Chinese, and a handful of Japanese travelers.

The resort’s peak season, spanning from November to May, offers an average occupancy rate of an astonishing 70 percent throughout the year.

This speaks to the resort’s universal appeal and its ability to offer guests an unforgettable experience, regardless of their nationality or travel preferences.

Sustainable gastronomy The resort’s Taranuman Farm provides its kitchen with fresh, seasonal ingredients, which are used to create delicious and authentic Filipino dishes.

“We operate the Taranuman Farm outside the resort, which supplies our kitchen with fresh herbs like mints and basil, as well as essential ingredients.

Additionally, we convert food scraps into natural fertilizers and pesticides,” Escobar noted.

Club Paradise Palawan’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond the kitchen. The resort has eliminated single-use plastics and replaced them with refillable bottles of purified water. Even the plastics used for garbage disposal, utensils, and packaging are made from corn starch, ensuring they easily decompose. Even the shampoo and soap bottles are made to minimize plastic usage.

The resort also oversees two neighboring islands, where it implements various conservation

Club Paradise has long stood as the preferred wedding destination for couples seeking an exclusive and unforgettable experience

The resort’s Firefish Restaurant

efforts. Environmental signage is placed throughout the resort grounds to educate both visitors and locals alike on the importance of protecting the island’s delicate marine sanctuaries.

Club Paradise also prioritizes community involvement, purchasing materials from local suppliers and supporting various educational initiatives. One such program is “Cheers for Chairs,” which channels a portion of restaurant cocktail sales to provide chairs to schools.

Commitment to authentic Filipino cuisine and community support To mark its 10th anniversary since acquiring the property, Club Paradise is set to open a new restaurant, “Sinag,” in December. This establishment aims to honor Filipino culture by focusing on authentic Filipino cuisine, allowing foreign guests to appreciate the rich culinary heritage of the country.

“To mark our 10th anniversary since acquiring the property, we’re opening ‘Sinag,’ a restaurant dedicated to authentic Filipino cuisine, offering foreign guests a taste of our rich culture,” Escobar said.

“With 74 rooms on site, we are building 10 more – rooms specifically designed for family-friendly spaces,” Escobar went on talking about the resort’s new development to celebrate their 10th year.

The island resort’s executive emphasized their ongoing commitment to providing a luxurious experience within a relaxed and inviting ambiance.

The attentive and unobtrusive service is dedicated to fulfilling every guest’s needs, ensuring the delivery of the Discovery brand’s exceptional service with a personal touch.

“That’s why we embrace our motto, ‘welcome home.’ This warm and hospitable greeting is woven into the fabric of our services, embodying our dedication to exceptional hospitality,” the general manager stated.

Sunlight Air offers direct flights to Busuanga at Francisco B. Reyes Airport, also known as Busuanga Airport or sometimes called Coron Airport, the gateway to Club Paradise Palawan.

Book your stay at Club Paradise Palawan today and experience the magic of this sustainable and authentic paradise. Visit www. clubparadisepalawan.com or call (632) 7719.6971.

Club Paradise Palawan also offers other water activities like kayaking

Rustan’s celebrates over seven decades of Christmas tradition

By Angelica Villanueva

Rustan’s celebrates the holiday season with its annual Christmas lighting

For years, it has become a tradition for Rustan’s to share light and joy among its patrons

FOR over seven decades, Rustan’s, the country’s premier department store, has treasured Christmas as a time of hope, light, love, and peace.

Every year, it has become a tradition for Rustan’s to continue to share light and joy among its patrons by cherishing and imparting the values of family, togetherness, and tradition.

This year, Rustan’s is once again ushering in the Christmas season with its signature lightup event. Dubbed “Light Up This Christmas with Rustan’s”, the high-end mall elevated its commitment with the introduction of focusing on renewal and celebration, with a variety of activities and attractions for all ages.

Rustan’s is giving its customers the magic of Christmas with a meaningful and lively celebration. From the return of its anticipated Christmas Shop to a grand day-long festivity packed with activities, interactive attractions, and bedazzling promos and markdowns, there are many to discover, explore, and indulge.

On October 24, the festivities kicked off with a grand launch where guests were treated to a dazzling spectacle of lights, music, and dance performances.

Each floor had its own special activity for attendees to enjoy. On the Men’s and Beauty floor, guests got to enjoy cocktail mixing and tasting sessions, shoe-cleaning activities, and board games while on the Women’s and Fine Jewelry floor, attendees were able to look for pieces of

jewelry and take photos in the 360 Camera Photo Booth.

On the Kids’ floor, little ones were entertained with Jenga, 3D Christmas ornament-making, and educational activities. On the Home floor, families could enjoy carnival games, a photo booth, and pizza and chocolates from Breville and Theo & Philo.

In addition to the launch event, Rustan’s is offering a variety of special promos throughout the holiday season. Patrons who spent at least P10,000 on October 24 received a P1,000 gift voucher. There is also a time-limited 0 percent bank installment promo, running from October 24 to January 7.

Rustan’s also offered exclusive promos for Beauty Addict members and men’s shoppers.

From October 24 to 26 at Rustan’s Makati, beauty enthusiasts were entitled to a complimentary Round Marble Board from Artesa by Kitchencraft for a minimum purchase of P10,000 worth of products and services at Rustan’s The Beauty Source. Men’s shoppers can also avail of special offers from brands like Braun, Herschel, American Tourister, Samsonite, Adidas watches, Casio, Cross & Sheaffeur, and more.

From October 25 to November 5, the mall is extending x3 FSP Points for a minimum single receipt purchase of P5,000.

Rustan’s is also hosting a Charity Registry in partnership with a local welfare program, allowing Rustan Commercial Corporation and Stores Specialists, Inc. patrons to extend a warm and generous hand to Chairman and CEO Zenaida ‘Nedy’ Rustia Tantoco and Patrick Jacinto grace the ‘Light Up This Christmas with Rustan’s’ event vulnerable children throughout the season.