Manila Standard - 2023 November 12 - Sunday

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IN MET R MANILAO

VOL. XXXVII • NO. 270 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES NOVEMBER 12, 2023

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CHINESE CHASE PH BOAT WITH MEDIA AT AYUNGIN

U.S. REPEATS MUTUAL DEFENSE VOW TO PH AFTER SEA TUSSLE

A

S a Philippine Coast Guard rubber boat carrying journalists sped towards Filipino troops on a grounded navy vessel in the disputed South China Sea, three Chinese speed boats gave chase.

The high seas pursuit near Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands on Friday ended when Philippine Navy inflatable speed boats deployed from the crumbling BRP Sierra Madre and blocked the approaching Chinese vessels.

Moments later, the Philippine Coast Guard craft carrying Agence France-Presse reporters and a local media outlet slipped into the shallow waters of the shoal.

It floated about 180 meters (200 yards) from the World War II-era BRP Sierra Madre where a handful of marines are stationed -- one of nine Philippine outposts in the hotly contested Spratlys.

China’s actions have sparked international concern and fueled fears for a potential accident or miscalculation serious enough to ignite a military conflict.

Manila’s longtime ally Washington reiterated Friday that its mutual defense pact with the Philippines “extends to armed attacks on Philippine armed forces, public

vessels, or aircraft—including those of its Coast Guard— anywhere in the South China Sea.” “The United States stands shoulder-to-shoulder with our Philippine ally in the face of the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) repeated harassment in the South China Sea,” US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a statement.

On Friday, the Philippines accused the Chinese coast guard of “dangerous harassment” of Filipino boats near the reef, including firing a water cannon and blocking vessels.

The incident happened nearly three weeks after two collisions between Chinese and Philippine vessels during another resupply mission, with the countries trading blame.

As the journalists sat in the rubber boat under a cloudy sky observing the dilapidated state of the BRP Sierra Madre on Friday, a US maritime patrol plane circled overhead.

AFP with Charles Dantes

THE recently revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) would give President Marcos the power to accept or reject recommended appointees to the national wealth fund, or appoint board members outside of the list of recommendees from the advisory body.

In Section 30 of the updated IRR, a copy of which was released Saturday, the President “has the option to either approve or decline” the suggested candidates of the Advisory Body for president and chief executive officer (PCEO) and independent directors of the Maharlika Investment Corp. (MIC).

“The President may require the Advisory Body to submit additional names of nominees” should he fail to find a suitable appointee from the initial shortlist submitted by the Advisory Board.

In addition, Section 21 of the MIF also outlines the powers held by the nine-member MIC Board. Its primary role is to oversee and administer the MIC, its assets, and investments in compliance with the law.

HIGH SEAS CHASE.

Philippine Coast Guard personnel and journalists use a rigid inflatable boat (left) on Friday as they head back after filming the BRP Sierra Madre docked at Second Thomas Shoal in the disputed West Philippine Sea, where China Coast Guard personnel sailing aluminum hulled boats gave them chase (inset).

Jam Sta. Rosa/AFP

14 MORE PINOYS DEPART GAZA, ENTER EGYPT

SPEAKER LEADS BUKIDNON SERVICE FAIR

Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez (center) leads the launch of the Cash and Rice Distribution (CARD) program Saturday at the Malaybalay Central School in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. With him are Bukidnon 2nd District Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores, Gov. Rogelio Neil Roque, and Bukidnon 4th District Rep. Laarni Roque.

Ver Noveno

By Maricel V. Cruz SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin Romualdez led government officials in rolling out the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) in Bukidnon, where P379 million in cash assistance and government services were provided to an estimated 110,000 citizens of the province.

The BPSF in Bukidnon – the seventh province so far to enjoy the full-service caravans of some 58 government agencies implementing 176 different programs and services – is expected to have the largest-served beneficiary base so far in the program. facebook.com/ ManilaStandardPH

MARCOS GETS BIGGER SAY ON M.I.F. BOARD

By Charles Dantes

SERVICE FAIR.

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FESTIVAL OF FESTIVALS.

Some of the seven groups of performers from five provinces and two cities of the Cordillera region strut their stuff in the Second Cordillera Festival of Festivals at the Rose Garden in Burnham Park, Baguio City on Saturday. Angie de Silva

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Romualdez, one of the principal organizers of the BPSF, thanked all the participating agencies and wished for the success of the ongoing caravan in Bukidnon.

“Bukidnon is lucky because this is one of the selected places to host our government’s newest program—the Bagong Pilipinas Service Fair.

There are some provinces that have already experienced the comfort brought by our Service Fair but I can say that Bukidnon is one of the most beneficiaries that attended,” he said at the Bukidnon State University in Malaybalay.

THE total number of Filipinos able to safely leave the conflict-stricken Gaza Strip since the Israel-Hamas war broke out has reached 98, the Philippine Embassy in Egypt announced Saturday.

This was after a third batch of 14 Filipinos finally crossed the Rafah border and entered the Egyptian territory on Nov. 10. Philippine Ambassador Ezzedin Tago said the 14 were accompanied by their Palestinian families and were welcomed by the embassy team led by Vice Consul Bojer Capati.

“This third batch of OFs (overseas Filipinos) will travel to Cairo,and another team of the Philippine Embassy in Cairo will assist them to their accommodations and will arrange their flights home,” he said. Maricel V. Cruz

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NEWS

A2 | NOVEMBER 12, 2023

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CABINET EXECS GET HIGH MARKS IN SURVEY

SOLONS HIT LATEST CHINA WPS MOVES, SUGGEST PLAN CHANGE

By Joel Zurbano and Maricel V. Cruz

S

ENATORS on Saturday condemned the recent attack by Chinese ships on Philippine vessels on a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal.

“In this latest incident, we again see China as a bully, using size and brute strength to illegally encroach upon our exclusive economic zone and enforce a baseless right to drive away our protectors,” said Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri.

“But water cannons and blockades will not dampen the will and resolve of our Navy and our Coast Guard to protect our exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea,” he added.

Meanwhile, Cagayan de Oro

Rep. Rufus Rodriguez urged the defense-military establishment to stop exposing civilian boats and their crew to danger in resupplying troops stationed at Ayungin Shoal off Palawan.

He made the appeal in the wake of what he described as the “newest incident of bullying and harassment” by the Chinese Coast Guard of civilian boats transporting provisions to a small military contingent in Ayungin.

Zubiri reminded the Chinese

Coast Guard that no amount of aggression can undo the fact that its government’s claims to the WPS have already been invalidated by the Permanent Court of Arbitration.

“They cannot justify their aggression under the guise of ‘defense,’ when their ships are clearly and disproportionately larger and more advanced than ours,” he said.

The senator commended the Philippine Navy and the Coast Guard for continuously standing their ground and asserting the country’s rights in the EEZ. “Bear in mind that your Philippine Senate is behind you 100%.”

Senator Jinggoy Estrada, meanwhile, said the government should seriously consider heeding the adopted Senate Resolution No. 79 which recommends several courses of action.

One of which, he said, is the

filing of a resolution before the United Nations General Assembly to call for the cessation of all activities that harass Philippine vessels and violate our established rights in the WPS. “In a show of solidarity, my colleagues and I crossed party lines in unanimously passing this resolution which calls out China for its repeated incursions in the WPS and incessant harassment of Filipino fishermen, patrol vessels, and resupply mission teams,” he said.

On the resupply missions, Rodriguez said: “Let’s end this practice. I do not see the rationale for using civilian boats and crew in delivering supplies to our soldiers whose presence in that remote part of the West Philippine Sea symbolizes our national sovereignty and territorial integrity there.”

By Maricel V. Cruz DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. was cited as the highest-performing Cabinet official, with a 90 percent approval rating and a 94 percent trust rating, a survey said.

The RP-Mission and Development Foundation Inc. (RPMD) “Boses ng Bayan” survey also said Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian was the secondhighest performing Cabinet official with an approval rating of 84% along with a trust rating of 88%.

Following Gatchalian is Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco who garnered an approval rating of 83% and a trust rating of 86%, the RPMD survey said.

Also cited were Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista and Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman with approval ratings of 81% and 80%, accompanied by trust ratings of 84% and 82%, respectively.

Other heads of agencies included on top of the list were Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual; Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Ivan John Enrile Uy; Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla; and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan.

2 TAGUIG GIRLS FOUND DEAD AT HIGH SCHOOL

By Joel E. Zurbano

SAFE IN MANILA. A Filipina (center) who crossed from the Gaza Strip into Egypt via the Rafah Border Crossing before being repatriated is seen

TWO female students were found dead in an office at Signal Village National High School in Taguig City late Friday night.

The grade 8 and grade 10 students were found hanging with a rope tied around their necks and attached to a steel grill inside the Girl Scout Mini Office on the 3rd floor of the school around 11 p.m.

Initial investigation showed that the two teenagers were last seen alive around 7:45 p.m. telling their classmates they were going home.

Their friends discovered through a Facebook messenger group chat that they did not return home.

Friends and relatives then searched the whereabouts of the two girls.

A friend, identified as Danielle, saw the two teenagers already dead in an apparent suicide. Danielle informed the school duty guards who later reported the incident at Taguig City Police Station for proper disposition.

On Saturday, Rhea Manalo, cousin of one of the two students, posted a message to her Facebook account, urging her classmates, teachers, and friends to come forward and tell the truth on the matter.

along with her children upon her arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila on Nov. 10. Nearly 100 Filipinos have left the Gaza Strip and went home amid the Israel-Hamas war. AFP

LABOR DEPT. TELLS FIRMS TO RELEASE 13TH-MONTH PAY EARLY

HONOREES. Timor Leste President Jose Ramos Horta (2nd from left) poses with winners of 2023 Ramon Magsaysay Awards during his visit to the RMA2023 head office in Manila. Also in photo are (second from right) Korvi Rakshand from Bangladesh, Miriam Coronel Ferrer of the Philippines, Eugenio Lemos of Timor Leste, and Ravi Kannan of India. Revoli Cortez

THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reminded all private-sector employers to release the mandated 13th-month pay of their workers no later than Dec. 24.

In Labor Advisory 25, series of 2023, issued on Nov. 8, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma also reiterated the department’s yearly guide on the proper computation of the mandatory benefit for all employees in private companies.

Also entitled to the benefit are rank-and-file employees who are paid on a piece-rate basis, fixed, or guaranteed wage plus commission; with multiple employers; resigned; terminated from employment; or those who were on maternity leave and received salary differential.

The minimum 13th-month pay shall not be less than 1/12 of the total basic salary earned by an

employee within the calendar year computed as follows: total basic salary / 12 months = proportionate 13th-month pay.

The 13th-month pay is mandatory under the Labor Code of the Philippines and Presidential Decree 851.

The department also said it would not allow requests for exemption or deferment of its payment, and that they are expecting all employers to submit their respective compliance report on or before Jan. 15, 2024.

The report shall contain the name of the establishment, address, principal product or business, total employment, the total number of workers who benefitted, the amount granted per employee, and the total amount of benefits granted.

SOLON WANTS SCHOOLS TO TEACH PUPILS VS. GRAFT ANAKALUSUGAN Party-list Rep. Ray Reyes on Saturday pushed for the passage of House Bill (HB) 9054, or the proposed “Anti-Graft and Corruption Education Act.” The measure seeks to integrate good conduct and ethical standards of public officials and employees in schools.

HB 9054 provides that the Department of Education (DepEd) shall, in coordination with the Office of the Om-

budsman, conceptualize and develop modules of instruction relating to the concept, effects, and prevention of graft and corruption for integration in the curricula of basic education.

Once enacted, Reyes said the bill will also “raise the awareness of our youth on the detrimental effects of corruption.”

“It is high time to equip our students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and values to resist and combat

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corruption,” the first-term legislator said.

He also cited the need to strengthen the country’s moral foundation.

He pointed to the recent 2022 Transparenc y lnternational Corruption Perception Index, which ranked the Philippines at 116th in the assessment of perceived levels of public sector corruption among 180 countries and territories globally.

Maricel V. Cruz

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

Michael Ricafort, Chief Economist of RCBC, explains the country’s growth in the third quarter this year to moderator Ernesto Hilario (right) and members of the Saturday News Forum yesterday in Quezon City.

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NEWS

NOVEMBER 12, 2023 |

A3

MARCOS TAPS NEW EXECS FOR RECLAMATION AUTHORITY

CARD PROGRAM IN CALOOCAN. Caloocan City 2nd District Representative Mitch Cajayon-Uy speaks during the Cash Assistance and Rice Distribution (CARD) Program of the Office of the House Speaker and the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Barangay 129, Caloocan City. The solon said 2,500 beneficiaries received the cash assistance of P2,000. Norman Cruz

‘REFORMED PENSION BILL GUARANTEES PAY INCREASE’

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HE proposed bill for a reformed pension system for military and uniformed personnel (MUP) would guarantee pensions for all uniformed personnel, annual pay increases, and improved benefits.

House of Representatives Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez gave this assurance during the “The Defense Forum” on Strengthening Legislative Measures in Support of National Security organized by the National Defense College of the Philippines Alumni Association at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

He said the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. has taken decisive steps to improve the benefits and promote the welfare of uniformed men and women who are the true strength of the

country’s defense system.

Romualdez said the government is also ensuring economic stability through the reformed MUP pension fund bill.

In September, the House of Representatives approved on third and final reading of House Bill 8969 or the MUP Pension System Act. The proposed law covers all uniformed government employees with ranks, armed or unarmed, primarily involved in national defense, law enforcement, maintenance of peace and order, and

providing security.

It guarantees a 3 percent annual salary increase for MUP for the first 10 years from the time the proposed law takes effect.

Under the bill, the mandatory retirement age is 57 years old or upon accumulation of 30 years of active service, whichever comes later.

For retirement, MUP may voluntarily retire after 20 years of service while key officers may retire upon completion of their tour of duty or upon relief by the President.

MUP killed in action or wounded in action resulting in total disability as certified by their respective services shall be considered compulsorily retired for purposes of computing their benefits.

“The proposed MUP pension law

further provides that for those already in active service before the enactment of the measure, their monthly retirement pay shall be 50 percent of the base pay and longevity pay of the grade next higher to the salary grade they last held in case of 20 years of service, increasing by 2.5 percent for every year of service beyond 20 years to a maximum of 90 percent for 36 years of service and over,” Romualdez said.

He said the bill would also create two MUP trust funds – one for the Armed Forces of the Philippines and another for uniformed personnel services – and an MUP trust fund committee chaired by the secretary of finance to administer the funds.

It designates the Government Service Insurance System as the manager of the trust funds.

-controlled corporations, government financial institutions, and state universities and colleges, to provide support to the NHCP and participate in the observance of the Dekada ng Kasaysayan ng Pilipinas.

All local government units, nongovernment organizations, and the private sector are encouraged to assist the NHCP for the celebration of the Dekada ng Kasaysayan ng Pilipinas.

Executive Order 451 issued on Oct. 23, 1933, created the Philippine Historical Research and Markers Committee (PHRMC), a body in charge of identifying, designating, and marking cultural and historical antiquities in the Philippines and preserving them for posterity.

Various presidential issuances were promulgated over the years in response to the need for a historical body with broader functions. Charles Dantes

NEW PRODUCTS. Christopher Delos Reyes, RIIFO Philippines

country manager, demonstrates the newest RIIFO piping products launched in the Philippines. The product launch was held at the Mall of Asia. Lino Santos

REBUILDING OF RAZED CONVENT EYED IN MAGUINDANAO

‘ACTIVE SHOOTING’ SIMULATION. Members of the Manila Police District-Special Weapons and Tactics (MPD-SWAT) group conducted an “active shooting” simulation exercise at the MPD headquarters in Ermita, Manila on Saturday. Norman Cruz

LAWMAKERS SEEK E-CIGARETTE PROBE AGAINST FLAVA

By Maricel V. Cruz

PBBM DECLARES 2023 TO 2033 PHILIPPINE ‘DECADE OF HISTORY’ PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has declared 2023 to 2033 as the “Dekada ng Kasaysayan ng Pilipinas” (Decade of Philippine History) as the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) celebrates its centennial anniversary in October 2033.

“The Filipino nation joins the NHCP in celebrating this milestone in Philippine bureaucracy and in highlighting the role of history in nation-building,”Proclamation 386, signed by Mr. Marcos, said.

Under the proclamation, the NHCP is directed to lead, coordinate, and supervise the observance of the Dekada ng Kasaysayan ng Pilipinas, as well as identify the programs, projects, and activities for its celebration.

Proclamation 396 enjoins all other national government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has named the new general manager and board members of the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA).

Cesar Siador Jr. was named general manager and CEO of the PRA, based on the list of newly appointed officials released by the Presidential Communications Office on its official Facebook page.

He was also tapped as a member of PRA’s Board of Directors.

Siador served as regional director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Environmental Management Bureau.

Mr. Marcos also appointed Alexander Lopez and Anthony Peter Crisologo as board members of the state-run reclamation agency.

The PRA, formerly the Public Estates Authority, was created under Presidential Decree 1084 issued on Feb. 4, 1977, to serve as the clearinghouse for all reclamation projects in the country.

It was designated as the agency primarily responsible for integrating, coordinating, and directing all reclamation projects on behalf of the national government.

The PRA also has the power and authority to develop and dispose of public lands; enter into contracts and loan agreements with private, public, or foreign entities; and exercise the right to eminent domain in the name of the Republic of the Philippines.

Charles Dantes

CHRISTIAN and Muslim alumni of the Catholic-run Notre Dame of Dulawan (NDD) High School in Maguindanao del Sur are eyeing to rebuild an old convent razed to the ground by a fire Friday night.

Residents were seen rushing to the rescue of three Oblates of Notre Dame (OND) Sisters, the residents of the convent, according to carpenter Mastura Samayatin, himself an alumnus. He said he had alerted the Municipal Fire Station with barely a text left of his mobile phone load.

Datuali Uka Ibrahim, an alumnus, raised the suggestion that “with all humility” the school’s alumni should help

rebuild the convent.

NDD Alumni President Hanalyn Sandatu-Piang said she was supposed to be at the opening Sunday of a Muslim prayer room building with her niece and fellow alumna, Bangsamoro Member of Parliament Sittie Fahani Uy-Oyod.

Authorities were still investigating the origin of the fire which took place slightly past 7:00 p.m. when the neighborhoods around the school rushed-in, amid a blinding mix of thick smoke and darkness, due to frequent blackout in the town. No one was reported in the fire. Nash B. Maulana

THE House Ways and Means Committee will investigate the ecigarette label FLAVA for possible tax evasion and tax fraud.

Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda, chair of the committee, said his panel will conduct the probe after a warehouse with illegally imported e-cigarettes bearing the label was raided on Oct. 27.

The raid yielded products valued at P1.43 billion. From the said amount, Salceda estimates that P728 million can be in unpaid excise taxes.

Some 1.4 million pieces of 10mL disposable vape pods were confiscated during the raid.

Salceda added it appears that the label has also been misdeclaring its products as freebase vape rather than salt nicotine, as the latter is taxed at a higher rate.

Under Republic Act 11467, salt nicotine vape is taxed at P52 per milliliter, while freebase is taxed at P60 per 10 mL. “We have received reports of independent testing which appears to confirm that one of FLAVA’s products, Chillax, contains high concentrations of nicotine salts.

If that is the case, then they have been paying just about one-tenth of what they should be paying in excise taxes for those products,” Salceda said.

He said his committee will also be looking at their BIR registrations. “Vape products have tax stamp requirements, and there are allegations that FLAVA has in fact not been compliant.”

“80 percent of revenues from vape sin taxes are spent towards universal health care and government hospitals. So, the health impacts of smoking vapes aside, tax evasion in this product is stealing from our hospitals and our sick.”

Salceda, who was already chair of the House tax committee when RA 11467 or the Vape Tax Law was passed, is also a principal author of the measure.

WORLD

A4 | NOVEMBER 12, 2023

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IN BRIEF US WORKS ON ‘HEALTHY RELATIONS’ WITH CHINA

CARNIVAL SEASON. Revellers, one (left) from Paris and the other from Germany, pose with beret and baguette in front of the Cathedral in Cologne, western Germany on Nov. 11, as the Carnival season is about to start at 11:11am. It finishes on Ash Wednesday of the following year with the main festivities happening around Rosenmontag (Rose Monday). AFP

GAZA IN SPOTLIGHT AS ARAB, MUSLIM BLOCS MEET IN SAUDI R

IYADH—Arab leaders and Iran’s president are in the Saudi capital Saturday for a summit meeting expected to underscore demands that Israel’s war in Gaza end before the violence draws in other countries.

The emergency meeting of the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) comes after Hamas militants’ bloody October 7 attacks that Israeli officials say left about 1,200 people dead and 239 taken hostage.

Israel’s subsequent aerial and ground offensive has killed more than 11,000 people, mostly civilians and many of them children, according to the Hamas-

run health ministry.

Aid groups have joined pleas for a ceasefire, warning of a humanitarian “catastrophe” in Gaza, where food, water and medicine are in short supply.

The Arab League and the OIC were originally meant to meet separately, but the Saudi foreign ministry announced early Saturday that the blocs’ summits would be combined.

The move underscores the importance of reaching “a unified collective position that expresses the common Arab and Islamic will regarding the dangerous and unprecedented developments witnessed in Gaza and the Palestinian territories,” the official Saudi Press Agency reported.

The Arab League aims to demonstrate “how the Arabs will move on the international scene to stop the aggression, support Palestine and its people, condemn the Israeli occupation, and hold

it accountable for its crimes”, the bloc’s assistant secretary-general, Hossam Zaki, said this week.

But Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad on Friday said it did not “expect anything” from the meeting, criticising Arab leaders for the delay.

“We are not placing our hopes on such meetings, for we have seen their results over many years,” Mohammad al-Hindi, the group’s deputy secretarygeneral, told a press conference in Beirut.

“The fact that this conference will be held after 35 days (of war) is an indication of its outcomes.”

Israel and its main backer the United States have so far rebuffed demands for a ceasefire, a position that is expected to draw heavy criticism on Saturday.

“This is not just about Israel-Palestine -- this is about what is facilitating Israel to do this, which is basically the United States and the West,” said Saudi analyst Aziz Alghashian. AFP

GAZAN HEALTH CARE ‘ON ITS KNEES’, HALF OF HOSPITALS DOWN UNITED NATIONS—The health care system in the Gaza Strip is “on its knees,” the head of the World Health Organization warned Friday, noting that half of the territory’s 36 hospitals are no longer functioning.

Speaking to the Security Council, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the situation on the ground as desperate: “Hospital corridors crammed with the injured, the sick, the dying; morgues overflowing; surgery without anesthesia; tens of thousands of displaced people sheltering at hospitals.”

“The health system is on its knees, and yet somehow is continuing to deliver lifesaving care,” he said.

Tedros said there had been more than 250 attacks on health care -- such as strikes on hospitals, clinics, ambulances and patients -- in Gaza and the West Bank, and 25 such attacks in Israel in the conflict triggered by Hamas’s shock October 7 assault.

“The best way to support those health workers and the people they serve is by giving them the tools they need to deliver that care -- medicines, medical equipment and fuel for hospital generators,” he said, calling for an increase in aid trickling in through the Rafah crossing with Egypt and repeating the UN’s call for a ceasefire. AFP

SAN FRANCISCO—US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen insisted Friday that Washington and Beijing had to reestablish “healthy economic relations” after a period of strained ties between the world’s two biggest economies.

But, she said, the United States would not shy away from taking unilateral action against Chinese firms supplying defense equipment to Russia for its invasion of Ukraine if Beijing failed to take preventative action.

“We do not seek to decouple our economy from China’s,” Yellen told reporters after a two-day meeting with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in San Francisco.

“This would be damaging to both the US and China and destabilizing to the world.”

The meeting came just ahead of a sit-down between US President Joe Biden and Chinese Premier Xi Jinping, who will be in the California city next week for an APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) summit of leaders from around the Pacific. AFP

BANGLADESH SHUTS 150 GARMENT FACTORIES DHAKA—Bangladeshi garment m a n u f a c t u re r s o n S a t u rd ay shuttered 150 factories “indefinitely”, as police issued blanket charges for 11,000 workers in connection with violent protests demanding a higher minimum wage, officers said.

Bangladesh’s 3,500 garment factories account for around 85 percent of its $55 billion in annual exports, supplying many of the world’s top brands including Levi’s, Zara and H&M. But conditions are dire for many of the sector’s four million workers, the vast majority of whom are women whose monthly pay, until recently, started at 8,300 taka ($75).

Violent protests demanding better pay erupted last month, with at least three workers killed and more than 70 factories ransacked or damaged since, according to police.

A government-appointed panel raised the sector’s wage by 56.25 percent on Tuesday to 12,500 taka, but garment workers have rejected the hike, instead demanding a 23,000 taka minimum wage.

On Thursday, 15,000 workers clashed with police on a key highway and ransacked Tusuka, a top plant, along with a dozen other factories. AFP

CHINA ‘SINGLES DAY’ PROMO LOSES LUSTER

ARMISTICE SITE. French Senate President Gerard Larcher arrives to attend a ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris on Nov. 11 as part of commemorations marking the 105th anniversary of the 1918 Armistice ending World War I. AFP

BEIJING—China’s annual “Singles Day” sales bonanza wraps up at midnight on Saturday, but consumers this year appear largely unswayed by its flashy deals and discounts as the world’s secondlargest economy slows.

Conceived by tech giant Alibaba, “Singles Day”—which this year spanned well over a week—was launched in 2009 and has since ballooned into a yearly blockbuster retail period.

Sales for last year’s Singles Day reached 1.1 trillion yuan ($153 billion), according to a recent report by consultancy firm Bain.

But among consumers surveyed

by Bain this year, 77 percent said that they did not plan to spend more than usual during the sales event. “ These days people are consuming less, people don’t really have much of a desire to buy lots of things,” recent graduate Zhang Chuwen, 23, told AFP. AFP

US ACTORS UNION SETS A.I. LIMITS IN STRIKE DEAL LOS ANGELES—From computergenerated “extras” to AI “zombies,” new restrictions against the use of artificial intelligence in Hollywood were set out by the actors’ union Friday.

The Screen Actors Guild (SAGAFTRA) reached a deal with studios like Disney and Netflix this week to end its nearly four-month strike. Its board members on Friday voted 86 percent in favor of ratifying the agreement.

Besides a seven percent minimum pay increase, and a new $40-millionper-year fund to transfer a portion of revenues for hit shows from studios to actors, AI guardrails were a key part of talks.

The deal “allows the industry to go forward -- it does not block AI,” SAGAFTRA negotiator Duncan CrabtreeIreland told a press conference.

“But it makes sure that performers are protected. Their rights to consent are protected. Their rights to fair compensation and their rights to employment are protected.”

Studios have been experimenting with AI in recent years, from bringing deceased movie stars back using realistic “digital replicas,” to using computer-generated background figures to reduce the number of actors needed for battle scenes.

Many cost-cutting producers want a growing role for AI, and have begun requiring some performers to take part in high-tech 3D “body scans” on set, often without explaining how or when the images will be used.

But now, an actor must be paid the same rate for any use of their digital replica as they would have earned

doing the same “amount of work” on set themselves in real life, CrabtreeIreland said.

Amid fears that background workers -- or “extras” -- could be the first to lose their jobs to AI, strict curbs have been put in place.

“No use of a digital replica can be used to evade engagement and payment of a background actor under this contract,” he said.

Studios must gain consent from an actor -- or their estate -- every time their digital replica is used in any film or TV episode.

They cannot present actors with boilerplate contracts entitling them to use a replica in perpetuity, but must instead provide a “reasonably specific description” of how it will be used each time. AFP

TOO MUCH PLASTIC. Climate activists chant slogans and hold banners as they march to demand drastic reduction in global plastic production during the Break Free From Plastic Movement March ahead of the third meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-3) in Nairobi, Kenya on Nov. 11. The session aims to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution. AFP

OTHEL V. CAMPOS, Issue Editor email: extrastory2000@gmail.com

BUSINESS

NOVEMBER 12, 2023 |

B1

‘BIGASAN’ CONCEPT GAINS

TRACTION AT FRANCHISE EXPO

O

RLY Manuntag was only looking at ending the year with 10 franchisees for his newest business model which he started in early 2023.

But throughout the course of the three-day 2023 International Franchise Expo held at the SMX Convention Center Manila in October, his Goldmine Farm to Market franchise attracted over 70 interested entrepreneurs who were looking for trending business concepts they can invest into.

“It was so gratifying that prospective franchisees noticed that what we are offering is not just a business opportunity for them but also livelihood for hundreds of farmers involved in the business model. So far, we have registered 76 interest prospective franchisees,” Manuntag said.

Prior to the expo, GoldMine signed turn key agreements with five franchisees from Trece Martirez City in Cavite; Banay-Banay in Cabuyao, Laguna; Ususan, Taguig; Marcos Alvarez Ave. in Las Piñas; and Brgy.

592 in Sta. Mesa.

The business model is the first franchise concept on integrated agriculture practices from production to retailing, completing the supply chain.

After his parents passed away, he was able to scale-up the business to become a wholesaler, creating a network of retailers under a separate brand, the Aling Grasya Rice.

Years after he completed the backward integration of his rice supply chain—from planting, milling and processing to delivery, Manuntag realized that the next big step to growing the business is through franchising.

Rice supply chain stakeholder Orly Manuntag ventures into franchising.

Goldmine Farm to Market set sights to have 100 franchises by 2024 across the National Capital Region (NCR) and the rest of Luzon. By 2028, the business aims to have close to a thousand franchises nationwide and bring the benefits of the “bigasan concept” to the Visayas and Mindanao.

It is the one of the most affordable franchise concepts introduced during the recent franchise expo, offering franchisees guaranteed return-oninvestment (ROI) within 8 to 10 months.

The turn-key pack age costs P388,000 for a 20-square-meter store.

The package includes an inventory of 70 sacks of 25-kilogram rice consisting of 12 rice varieties from red, brown, glutinous to an assor tment of premium white rice, both local and imported.

The franchise store is furnished with two rice dispensers with six slots each, a POS hardware and software system, digital and dial type weighing scale, metal shelves for display, metal palettes for product storage, backlit signage, auxiliary items and market peripherals including operations and financial management training.

Included in the franchise is the cost of setting-up of the store itself, or renovation cost if there is an existing commercial space.

The franchise also carries similarly healthy grains-based products like

rice flour and glutinous rice flour, an assortment of noodles and soon, a company-formulated brown rice coffee.

Food security Manuntag’s family has been in the rice retailing business since he was young. Growing up as a son of a rice retailer in Baclaran in the mid-1990s, he pursued a different path only to end up taking charge of the family business when his parents died.

“I made the decision to take up accounting because I want to work far from the wet markets or any retail institution. However, my history of working with farmers during my college years as an activist, made me care for the livelihood that has sustained our family for many years,” he said.

He shifted courses to customs administration and became a licensed customs broker which made it easy for him to import rice. As a wholesaler, he also imports rice from Vietnam and Thailand, especially the premium varieties to help the government maintain a heathy stock of grains for the lean months.

He incor porated the family

business under the OCM trademark in 2006 and later on rebranded as Goldmine Farm to Market.

The business has been thriving amid fluctuation of grains prices locally and globally. Linking his wholesale rice trading to farming opened opportunities for contract growing to farmers in Nueva Ecija. Currently, the company holds 28 hectares of rice plantation, of which four hectares are company-owned and 20 hectares are under contract growing agreements with farmers in the area.

Harvested rice is milled in the company-owned rice mill in Bulacan, integrating production to processing.

“It’s a win-win agreement for all of us.

Orly Manuntag (left) poses for a souvenir photo with franchisees during the 2023 Franchise Expo.

We provide all the farm inputs needed by our contract growers, like seeds, fertilizers, chemicals for pest management. We support whatever is needed to increase production,” Manuntag said.

The company is negotiating with farmers to help expand the farming area by an additional 100 hectares.

Bringing the total hectarage to 128 hectares will easily quadruple production and create a more stable supply chain for franchisees while contributing to the government’s goal of achieving food security.

Goldmine Farm to Market also plans to extend educational support to deserving children of select contract farmers, not only as a gesture of goodwill but to allow their children a chance at better education and better future.

The company supports 42 scholars in grade school, high school and college. The scholarship program started as the company’s corporate social responsibility program years before the company began its backward farming integration.

Leveraging IP With the help of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines, Manuntag made sure that his franchise concept is registered with the IPOPHL including the design of the store, the design of the dispensers and other related collaterals.

“We want to make sure that our idea, our brand is protected and this goes down to every franchisee that registered with us. It gives us peace of mind that what we have painstakingly created is secured and safe,” Manuntag said.

Othel V. Campos

Manila

CEBUANA LHUILLIER CEO SPURS INNOVATIONS IN MICROFINANCE CEBUANA Lhuillier president and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier is on a mission to positively touch and change the lives of millions of Filipinos for the better through his numerous pursuits.

Lhuillier has successfully transformed Cebuana Lhuillier to be the Philippines’ leading microfinance provider, starting as a pawnshop to becoming the largest and leading microfinance institution in the country with close to 3500 branches. Its core products and services such as pawning, money transfer and insurance have aided millions of Filipinos achieve financial wellness and empower them to provide for their loved ones.

“We constantly innovate and improve our products to tailor fit the needs of our Ka-Cebuanas. I’ve always believed that if we give people good financial options, they are capable of making smart decisions financially,” he said.

Lhuiller makes sure that clients are given the best possible p r o d u c t s through and services

Cebuana Lhuillier CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier

groundbreaking innovations. On top of offering pawning, money transfer and insurance products, Cebuana Lhuillier has now made savings and investment accessible to the unbanked and underbanked providing micro-savings, jewelry selling and microinvestment.

Through its micro-savings product, the company has addressed the pain points in opening a savings account by offering a low start-up amount with less documents and no maintaining balance. Micro-savings is made accessible for the masses through all Cebuana Lhuillier branches nationwide.

The I pon ar yo M ovement, an oth er innovative idea of Lhuillier, has already registered 7 million account holders.

Cebuana Lhuillier has also enabled Filipinos to gain access to affordable investment through jewelry selling and micro-investment.

The company encourages the public to invest in gold through FB Live, its pawnshop branches, the website and other marketplaces.

Realizing the need to make it easier for people to start a business, Lhuillier spearheaded the creation of the Ka Negosyo Center, a one-stop business shop on June 2023.

The program provides business mentorship through videos, provides assistance on sales and marketing, lends financial and legal advises, as well as offers financial assistance through loans, micro-savings and insurance.

As the head of the Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Inc. (CLFI), Lhuillier has helped make education more accessible by donating classrooms, learning centers, conference rooms, and buildings. Part of CLFI’s major thrust is the implementation of the Alternative Learning System (ALS) along with 3 other initiatives - Nationwide Scholarship Program, Spiritual and Social Enhancement Program, and Special Projects on Education.

An avid support of sports development, Lhullier helped create the Cebuana Lhuillier Age Group tennis which h a s h e l d m o re t h a n 5 0 tournaments nationwide in over 10 years. He also managed the Davis Cup and Southeast Asian Games national teams while supporting individual international campaigns of top tennis players Ruben Gonzales and Francis Casey Alcantara.

Standard

TODAY

METRO PACIFIC INVESTMENTS CORPORATION NOTICE OF SPECIAL SHAREHOLDERS’ MEETING Please be advised that a Special Meeting of the Shareholders of METRO PACIFIC INVESTMENTS CORPORATION (the “Company”) will be held on December 04, 2023 at 1:30 p.m.

The venue of the meeting is at the MPIC Boardroom, 9th Floor, Tower 1, Rockwell Business Center, Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City. Shareholders may also opt to attend the meeting virtually through a link that will be provided by the Company. Shareholders who wish to attend the meeting, whether physically or virtually, must inform the Company’s Corporate Secretary by email to corsec@ mpic.com.ph no later than November 28, 2023.

The following is the agenda of the Special Meeting of the Shareholders: I. Call to Order II. Certification of Notice and Quorum III. Amendment of the Seventh Article of the Amended Articles of Incorporation of the Company IV. Other Matters V. Adjournment The Board of Directors has fixed the close of business on October 31, 2023 as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to notice of and to vote at the Special Shareholders’ Meeting.

Duly accomplished proxies shall be submitted on or before November 28, 2023 to the Office of the Corporate Secretary at 9th Floor, Tower 1, Rockwell Business Center, Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City and/or by email to corsec@mpic.com.ph.

Validation of proxies is set on November 29, 2023.

The 2023 Q3 Reports will be made available in the Company’s website no later than November 14, 2023.

Shareholders may vote electronically, subject to validation procedures.

The rules and procedures participating in the meeting physically and virtually and for casting their votes in absentia are set forth in the Information Statement.

Very truly yours, RICARDO M. PILARES III Corporate Secretary Pasig City

(MS-NOV. 11 & 12, 2023)

B2 | OCTOBER 12, 2023

ON THE ROAD

Tour De Cebu’s Bai Burila (3rd overall), Michael James Lhuillier and Michael Lhuillier (Grand Champion, Pace Chairman Class Champion, Stage 1 and 2 winner, Best Period Dressed team), and Raju and Oscar Medalla (2nd overall, Roberto Aboitiz Class Champion).

‘FATHER-SON DUO DOMINATES 8TH TOUR DE CEBU VINTAGE CAR RALLY’

M

ichael and Michael James Lhuillier showcased their exceptional roadmanship, clinching the 2023 Grand Champion title and multiple accolades in the recent Tour de Cebu Historic Sports Car Rally.

The eighth edition of the event, organized by the Performance and Classics Enthusiasts of Cebu (PACE) and the Manila Sports Car Club (MSCC), aimed to promote drive tourism in the central provinces of the archipelago.

The Lhuilliers, members of the PACE club, secured victory in the 225-km Stage 1 from Tubigon to BE Grand Resort in Panglao, as well as the 227-km Panglao to Catigbian Stage 2, both in Bohol province, establishing a comfortable lead. Their triumphs extended to winning the PACE Chairman Class

and the Best Period Dressed Team awards, complementing their 1968 Mercedes Benz 280SL. Another PACE club father and son tandem of Lui and Anton Alvarez, and their 1973 Datsun 240Z won the longest leg, the 237-km Stage 3 from Catigbian to Panglao, which traversed the eastern interior roads. MSCC’s Bai Burila and Jelou Cabuga snatched the141-km Stage 4 loop drive from Panglao and back on board their 1959 MGA deluxe Le Mans to win 3rd Place Overall honors.

Tour De Cebu -Tubigon municipal councilor Gail Jao flags off the Tour de Cebu in Bohol

LEADING JAPANESE OIL GIANT MAKES BIG SPLASH IN LOCAL MARKET ENEOS Corporation, Japan’s leading oil company, is making a significant impact on the local automotive scene with its topnotch lubricants designed for motorcycles and cars. Kazumasa Imai, President of Eneos Philippines Corporation (Eneph), highlighted this achievement during our recent meeting, joined by the new marketing officer, Rea Atienza, and our mutual friend, Luigi Avancena.

Established in 1988, Eneos remains Japan’s largest oil company, commanding over 50 percent of its oil market. With a global network of overseas locations, including the Philippines, where Eneos initiated motorcycle lubricant sales, the company has a prominent presence in 27 other locations worldwide. In Japan, Eneos boasts a 50 percent fuel market share, 40 percent lubricants market share, and a 40 percent hydrogen stations share.

Tour de Cebu vintage cars drive through Bohol’s interior roads

The son-and-father pair of Raju and Oscar Medalla, also of MSCC, won 2nd Place Overall despite gas pedal challenges and emerged as the Roberto Aboitiz Class champion for cars up to 1966 model, with their 1965 Porsche 912 for the second time The only all-ladies team of Andrea Aldeguer and Alyeska Yunam won the Clubman Class Champion trophy, while Tonet Ramos and JB Mapa from Bacolod copped the Sportsman Class, and MSCC’s Joekid Rivera and Anthony Ty champed the Tribute Class.

Special awards were also presented to Neri Pio (Esprit de Corps) and Edwin Torres (Gentleman Racer).

Meanwhile, solo driver and firsttime participant Rod Garcia sur-

mounted the road challenges to win the Survivor Award, while the Aldeguer family headed by Jay Aldeguer and daughters Andrea and Arianna earned the Family Team Award.

The Rally also included five noncompeting cars in the Special Touring Group led by world-class designer Kenneth Cobonpue and his 1974 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS, one of Tour de Cebu’s pioneers.

Sponsored by Petron Blaze and Petron Turbo Diesel, the TDC was flagged off at NUSTAR Resort, made a loop drive around the Cebu Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX), boarded the Fast Cat ferry to Tubigon, Bohol, and made a 1,000-km drive around the island province.

SEAOIL OPENS 800TH STATION IN CAVITE, TARGETS 50 MORE BEFORE YEAR END SEAOIL celebrates a significant achievement with the inauguration of its 800th station in Silang, Cavite—SEAOIL Puting Kahoy.

Positioned conveniently near Tagaytay, a popular tourist destination, it aims to reach a total of 850 stations nationwide by the end of 2023.

During the grand opening, customers enjoyed exclusive discounts on SEAOIL fuels, free merchandise, and the station’s strategic proximity enhances accessibility for visitors.

The facility not only offers SEAOIL fuels but also stocks various lubricant products, accepts PriceLOCQ as payment, and provides a seamless

MILO RIVERA, Issue Editor email: medarlo.e.rivera@gmail.com

experience for members of the revamped SEAOIL loyalty program.

As SEAOIL marks its 45th year, CEO Glenn Yu emphasizes the commitment to delivering the Alagang SEAOIL experience, offering more convenient options to Filipinos through an expanding retail and depot network.

Additionally, SEAOIL enhances customer experience with enticing PriceLOCQ promos, including an Everyday Discount promo and a special offer in collaboration with the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf for registered PriceLOCQ users.

The ongoing efforts reflect SEAOIL’s dedication to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction.

A TWO-WHEEL TRAVELER’S HAVEN: BATAAN RE-IDENTIFIES ITSELF BEYOND ITS HISTORIC BATTLEFIELDS WHILE Bataan is renowned for its historic World War II battlefields, there’s more to explore beyond the solemnity of Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9. Motorcycle aficionados can rev up their engines for a stylish ride through the picturesque countryside of the province.

The Oriental Hotel and Resort in Mariveles beckons riders with the enticing Explore Bataan promo. With room rates starting at P3,888 for deluxe cellar and P4,888 for deluxe executive, the package includes breakfast for two and a 10% discount at the Cocoon Restaurant and Forest Grill.

After a long ride, road trippers can indulge in pampering at the circular pool and enjoy signature massages at the Asian-themed spa.

For those seeking unique experiences, The Oriental has partnered with tour operator Aura Mosca, offering guests customized itineraries that blend nature, adventure, culture, and cuisine.

If you prefer a DIY adventure, here are some must-see and Instagram-worthy spots in Bataan: 1. First Line of Defense Monument: A larger-than-life tableau at Layac Junction in Dinalupihan, depicting the USAFFE 38th Infantry Division, the first line of defense against Japanese attacks in 1941.

2. Bataan Tourism Center: Located in Balanga City,

this one-stop government information center features a diorama, mini-museum, audio-visual room for war documentaries, and a pasalubong store.

3. World War 2 Surrender Site: Inside Balanga Elementary School, where Filipino and American troops surrendered to the Japanese on April 9, 1942, depicted through life-size bronze tableau and a war museum.

4. City of Balanga Wetlands and Nature Park: A 34-hectare mangrove forest habitat for 9,500 endemic and migratory birds in the Manila Bay wetlands.

5. Dambana ng Kagitingan: Bataan’s iconic World War 2 memorial complex with a 92-meter concrete cross and a war museum on top of Mt. Samat in Pilar.

6. Death March Km Zero: A memorial plaza in Mariveles where 70,000 Filipino and American troops began their grueling 100-km walk to their prison camp in Capas, Tarlac.

7. Five Fingers Cove: A series of picture-perfect coves accessible by outrigger boats from Panoypoy Beach boat station.

8. Morong: A coastal town known for its fine sand coastline, sea turtle conservation center, Spanish-era Our Lady of the Pillar Church, and the intriguing Bataan Technology Park with structures reflecting the Oriental way of life.

Imai expressed the Philippines’ positive reception, attributing Eneos’ success to the seamless integration of their products into the flourishing motorcycle industry.

Starting with a single distributor in 2020, Eneos achieved impressive sales of P220 million. Within just one year, sales skyrocketed by 240 percent, reaching P530 million in 2021. Imai, with three decades of experience at Eneos, noted the Filipinos’ enthusiastic embrace of their proven and quality products, complemented by the introduction of several new lubricants.

The momentum continued in 2022, with sales reaching a remarkable P720 million, marking a 330 percent increase.

Anticipating a robust year ahead, Imai, who enjoys golf and cooking Filipino cuisine, estimates a potential P820 million by the end of the current year—an impressive 370 percent increase—thanks to the addition of seven distributors nationwide.

Emulating their successful approach in Japan, Imai replicated partnerships with renowned 2-wheel racing personalities, including Superbike champion Jacq Buncio, who recently joined as Eneos’ brand ambassador. Notably, Eneos expanded its product line to include lubricants for 4-wheel vehicles, introducing diesel engine oil and 5 PCMO mineral products.

Eneos’ lubricants for cars, featuring ultramodern, eco-friendly, high-performance, fully synthetic motor oils for both gasoline and diesel engines, have witnessed strong sales. Viewing the Philippines as a strategic target, Imai envisions significant growth given the large market, positive economic outlook, and the favorable reputation of Japanese brands among Filipinos.

Looking ahead, Eneos plans to introduce additional diesel engine oils for truck and bus fleet customers and venture into the electric vehicle segment, projected to reach a 1.68 percent market share in the Philippines by the end of 2022. Eneos aims to capitalize on this growth opportunity and further strengthen its position in the dynamic lubricants market.

RANDY M. CALUAG, Issue Editor

SPORTS

OPINIO NOVEMBER 12, 2023 |

B3

BINGO PLUS, ARENA PLUS TO EXCITE PBA FANS

The Filipino players expressed their excitement during the launch of the Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 Grand Finals with officials of Acer Philippines.

ASPAC PREDATOR LEAGUE 2024 TAKES CENTERSTAGE IN PHL T WENTY-SIX teams from across the Asia Pacific region, including powerhouse will be battling for the highly coveted Predator Shield when the Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 Grand Finals takes place on Jan. 13-14, 2024, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

To lift this prestigious award, teams must demonstrate mastery of the highly acclaimed game title VALORANT. And it’s not going to be a walk in the park as the Philippine esports athletes match keyboard skills and strategies against players from powerhouse teams like Japan, China, and Korea.

The Asia Pacific Predator League has been the home ground of upand-coming esports talents. Every season, thousands of teams across the region sign up for a chance to live out the dream of winning it all in the grandest of stages.

Since 2018, Predator has continuously provided this stage and continues to nurture and promote the esports industry. The Predator League has also amplified the narratives of players through various content created throughout the league.

“Predator League is our commitment to further building the gaming community in APAC. We are excited to bring the Asia Pacific Predator League to Manila,

The best esports athletes from Asia and the Pacific will converge at the MOA for the Predator League grand finale.

which has one of the biggest esports fanbases,” said Manuel Wong, Managing Director at Acer Philippines.

FOR ALL GAMERS A prize pool of US$100,000 is also at stake for the VALORANT grand finals. The winning team will take home $65,000. The secondplace winner will get $20,000, while third and fourth-place winners will receive $7,500.

“We are glad to provide the (gaming) platform for all gamers in the Philippines,” said Acer Philippines general manager Sue Ong Lim. For more information and updates about Predator League, visit www.facebookcom/ PredatorGamingPhilippines or the official website www.predatorleague.com.

Hosting the event is Acer, makers of the Predator variant of laptops designed for games from beginners to serious esports

athletes, like the Sibol squad, the Philippine national team.

Marlon Marcelo, executive director of the Philippine Esports Organization (PeSO) said Predator League has been instrumental in producing top esports athletes in the Philippines, making the Philippine Sibol squad a force to be reckoned with in the Southeast Asian Games.

“Predator keeps the esports ecosystem highly competitive helping our national team.”

Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world’s top ICT companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. As Acer evolves with industry and changing lifestyles, it is focused on enabling a world where hardware, software and services will fuse with one another, creating ecosystems and opening up new possibilities for

The Acer Predator variant that will be used in the tournament.

consumers and businesses alike.

Acer is dedicated to researching, designing, marketing, selling, and supporting products and solutions that break barriers between people and technology. Please visit www. acer.com for more information.

ARENAPLUS, the Official Sports Entertainment Gateway of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), and its O fficial Bingo Entertainment Partner, BingoPlus, are fully committed to making the PBA Season 48 truly exceptional by bringing the entertainment and excitement level of basketball fans to new heights.

The official sportsbook of the PBA hyped up the season for basketball fans by presenting this year’s PBA Annual Leo Awards which recognizes the exceptional players of the previous season. Named after the league’s founding commissioner, Leo Prieto, the Leo 2023 awardees were led by San Miguel’s Junemar Fajardo who received his historic seventh Most Valuable Player Award during the opening ceremonies.

The brand’s very own “AstigGirls” and “BingGirls” joined the opening day entertainment extravaganza that featured young actress Chie Filomeno, boy group Alamat and the rollicking performances of Jose Manalo and Wally Bayola.

Leading up to the PBA opening, ArenaPlus co-presented the PBA Fun Run 2023 last October 22 at Bridgetown Destination Estate in Pasig City. Thousands of fans participated in this interactive event to show support for their favorite PBA teams and to enjoy the authentic PBA experiences at the ArenaPlus booth where they can play games, win prizes, and take home free merchandise as souvenirs.

The brand’s official dance group, the “Astig Girls” provided more fun and high energy at the event. PBA court idols Simon Enciso of the San Miguel Beermen, Jio Jalalon and Abu Tratter of Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots, Rain or Shine Elasto Painters rookie Keith Datu, and Blackwater Bossing coach Jeffrey Cariaso played games with fans at the brand’s booth and ran with their fans on the track.

Following this pre -opening event, BingoPlus and ArenaPlus also provided fun and entertainment at the two-day PBA Media Day held on Oct. 24-25 at One Esplanade in Pasay City.

In a Filipino culture-themed e ve nt , a l l t we l ve P B A te a m s gathered in preparation for the season. The GILAS Pilipinas men’s basketball team also attended the event to show support for the competing teams.

During the opening, ArenaPlus’ o f f i c i a l a m b a s s a d o r, S c o t t i e Thompson of Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, expressed his gratitude towards the brand for supporting the PBA and his basketball career.

“We’re truly excited about this PBA season. I feel truly blessed to be part of the ArenaPlus family, which has given me unwavering support for my PBA and GILAS journeys.

ArenaPlus is truly committed to working hand in hand with the PBA and to make basketball enjoyable

HOW SWAG TACKLES AGING THROUGH WEIGHTLIFTING

By Josephine Reyes

strong legs but also informed me that experiencing stiffness and knee pain at my age was normal and there FIVE months ago, I had a stiff leg and a painful was no need for specialized medical interventions. kneecap whenever I tried to walk. The discomfort was Instead, he presented me with two options: I could either so intense that the longer I walked, the worse it got, undergo rehabilitation in the hospital or return to the and it was challenging to move around. It was a stark gym, provided I worked with a licensed personal trainer.

I chose the latter option and the search began; I reminder of the aging process.

Eventually, I dragged myself to see an orthopedic decided to look for a medium and semi-private gym doctor. After examinations, he confirmed that I had with fit and healthy qualified instructors and a clean and organized facility. I want a place to push my physical boundaries and strengthen my mental resilience. A tall order, but what happens when you stumble upon a local gym that isn’t just dedicated to building muscle but Coach is also focused on building a community of Jude Molina oversees the happy, physically strong, and healthy people? training of SWAG, is for fitness enthusiasts of all levels. the author.

What sets it apart from other gyms is not Josephine the gleaming state-of-the-art equipment or Reyes the luxurious locker rooms, complementary juices, and coffee or tea but the sense of community that pervades the air. The moment you step through the doors, you’re welcome in positivity and support.

Coach Jude Molina, 24, is my personal trainer, and Coach March, overlooked my program. They discussed and compared my progress and talked about it with me.

Coach Jude’s commitment to his clients’ progress and well-being is unwavering. In only

two months, I can carry half of my weight while my legs push and hold more. He is focused and makes sure that I execute each exercise correctly.

“We believe in the power of positive encouragement,” Coach March says, “Our clients don’t just come here to lift weights; they come here to better themselves, both physically and mentally. Coach Jonnel reaffirmed, “We’re like a family and a community, we motivate and support each other every step of the journey.”

Weightlifting is essential at any age because it improves muscle strength, bone health, metabolism, balance, and overall functional abilities, promoting better physical and mental well-being as we age.

My target is to build muscles as my bones have a big chance to deteriorate faster than expected, according to my doctor, after being on prednisone for autoimmune disease years ago.

During the pandemic, I struggled to carry five pounds, and I could hardly squat and get tired quickly.

I walk slower than usual. Now my strides are longer, I sleep better and eat well. I no longer drag my leg when I walk and have built more muscles in all the right places.

I found the gym I was looking for.

Two months later, I no longer drag myself to the doctor’s clinic, I eagerly head to the gym, looking forward to a new program designed for me to the next level.

Arena Plus and Bingo Plus promise more side events during PBA games.

and entertaining for all Filipino fans anytime, anywhere,”Thompson said.

ArenaPlus and BingoPlus proudly stand as the flagship brands of Digiplus Interactive Corp, solidifying its position as a leading gaming and leisure provider in the country.

With a reputation for excellence and innovation, Digiplus Interactive Corp continues to enrich the gaming experience for Filipino players across the nation. To know more, download the app now in Google Play and App Store.

OPINION B4 | NOVEMBER 12, 2023

LGU

PATRICIA TACULAO, Issue Editor lgu.manilastandard@gmail.com

The PSA Plaque of Recognition given to Manolo Fortich OBO

MANOLO FORTICH OBO AMONG PSA BUKIDNON TOP AWARDEES

CAMIGUIN CELEBRATES 44TH LANZONES FESTIVAL. Dancers representing various municipalities of Camiguin do the Sajaw Kinamigin, which interprets the legend of the lanzones fruit and infuses ethnic music from Lumad indigenous peoples such as the Manobo, Bagobo, Subanen, and Tboli tribes. The street competition was the highlight of the recent 44th Lanzones Festival, one of the country’s longest-running cultural festivities, held in the island Province of Camiguin in northern Mindanao. Named after the tropical seasonal fruit, which is reputed to be the sweetest of its kind in the archipelago, this year’s two-week celebration is among the festival’s most extended editions with its vast array of special events to lure tourists in the post-pandemic season. According to Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo, this year’s celebration is marked by a bumper harvest, which has already netted over 1 million kilograms as of the first week of October based on data collated by the provincial agriculture office from local growers.

SISTERHOOD AGREEMENT

BETWEEN CDO, BATAC OFFICIALLY SEALED

I

N a historic moment, the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Batac, Ilocos Norte, have officially sealed their sister city agreement after forging a bond of cooperation and friendship that promises to bring shared benefits and opportunities for both communities.

The sisterhood signing ceremony at the City Tourism Hall was led by Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy and Batac City Mayor Albert D. Chua, with the presence of the members of the 20th City Council headed by Vice Mayor Jocelyn Rodriguez and Batac City Council members.

In his message, Chua expressed his gratitude to the city officials of Cagayan de Oro for their warm welcome and acceptance of the sister city agreement.

He noted that this collaboration would enable both cities to share best practices and innovative ideas in local governance, a move he believed would lead to more significant progress and improved quality of life for their respective residents.

For his part, Uy shared his excitement and joy with the partnership as the LGU of

THE Office of the Building Official (OBO) of the Local Government Unit of Manolo Fortich secured a place as one of the Top 3 awardees of most timely submissions of Approved Building Permits by the provincial Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) last Oct. 26 at Landing, Casisang, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

The award is an annual recognition with participants from 20 municipalities and two cities of the Province of Bukidnon, with only the Top 3 chosen awardees. This year, Malaybalay City, Maramag, and Manolo Fortich made it to the top list.

OBO Head Engr. Rosa Bella Saluta along with Engr. Cherry Mae Galvez had the honor of receiving the plaque during the forum and awards ceremony.

Since OBO processes and authorizes building permits for local and new establishments in the municipality, submissions of approved permits to the provincial office of PSA are done monthly. PSA uses these submissions as a report to their central office to keep an updated record of newly built establishments in the Philippines.

In return, PSA awards offices that regularly submit reports.

The timely responsiveness of OBO not only promotes the efficiency of the LGU of Manolo Fortich but also contributes to the quality policy and output of PSA.

LANAO DEL NORTE WINS BEST PESO AWARD Batac City Mayor Albert D. Chua (left) with CDO Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy

Batac, Ilocos Norte, preferably had chosen Cagayan de Oro City for benchmarking and eventually formalized the sister city agreement between the two cities.

He highlighted the potential for increased cooperation and exchanging valuable knowledge and experiences between the two LGUs. Notably, Batac, Ilocos Norte, is the first sister city under the leadership of Uy, making

this partnership a significant milestone of his administration.

The sisterhood promises to open doors for cultural exchanges, economic collaboration, and shared initiatives that can enhance the lives of the citizens of both cities.

As the partnership between Cagayan de Oro and Batac, Ilocos Norte, takes shape, residents of both cities can look forward to a future enriched by shared

experiences and mutual progress.

The signing of the sister city agreement marked the significant highlight of their three-day visit, aside from benchmarking Cagayan de Oro City’s best practices related to ”Volunteerism & Active Citizenship.”

This visit was organized following the recommendation of the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA).

AUSTRALIAN FIRM TO UPGRADE CAMIGUIN WATER SYSTEM POTABILITY CHECK AN Australian firm aims to upgrade t h e wate r s ys te m o f Ca m i g u i n Island province, making it the first “cloud-based water system” in the Philippines.

C a m i g u i n G o v. X a v i e r J e s u s R o m u a l d o s a i d t h e Tr a c w a t e r Company, led by its chief executive officer, Len McKelvey, paid a courtesy visit to the provincial capitol and met with the Camiguin Water Company (CWC) officials.

Compared to regular water monitoring, which involves experts taking routine samples followed by laboratory assessments, cloud-

based monitoring automates the process through robotic solutions to obtain real-time water quality measurements.

“Next year, Tracwater will install the first-ever in the Philippines real-time cloud-based water quality monitoring system in the CWC-CIWASCO (Camiguin Integrated Water System Cooperative) water systems,” Romualdo said in a Facebook post.

He said the partnership will further ensure the potability and safeness of the water service.

Tracwater, according to its LinkedIn account, has been operating its own

THE Public Employment Service OfficeProvincial Government of Lanao del Norte (PESO-PGLDN) was named the National Winner in the 2022 Search for Best PESO under the 2nd Class Province Category during the 23rd National PESO Congress held at Leyte Academic Center.

Evelyn Lopez, PESO Manager of Lanao del Norte, expressed her excitement upon receiving the award. She said,“This is our first time to be awarded as Best PESO. Among all the 2nd Class Provinces PESOs in the country, we are glad that our dedication to serve was recognized.”

With the theme, “Unified PESO: Foundation for Gainful Employment Digitalization, and Economic Progress,” this annual gathering of PESO Managers, DOLE Officials, and employees with other special guests coming from different parts of the country was held to recognize the best PESOs for their notable contributions and accomplishments in employment facilitation programs and for exemplifying excellence in public service.

PESO-PGLDN was also a winner of the Bayanihan Service Award of DOLE for two consecutive years, and Lopez was honored to bring honor to the province and excited to turn over the trophies to Gov. Imelda “Angging” QuibranzaDimaporo to thank her for her ceaseless support in all the programs, activities, and initiatives of her office.

“robotic water data system” since 2009.

In May this year, CWC appointed Jonathan Sarsonas as its new general manager, with a mandate to supervise the company’s operations and ensure the deliver y of safe, reliable, and equitable water supply services.

The CWC has been providing water supply services to the people of Camiguin since November 2022.

Last year, the existing partnership b e t w e e n C W C a n d C I WA S C O amounted to over PHP61 million worth of investment.

Lanao Del Norte LGU representatives receiving the Best PESO award

NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer email: lifeandshow.manilastandard.gmail.com

YoungLIFE

NOVEMBER 12, 2023 |

C1

KICKSTART YOUR DIGITAL JOURNEY AND UNLOCK A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES

By Nickie Wang

C

ONTENT creators wield unprecedented influence, shaping the world through their digital creations.

Whether crafting compelling videos, insightful blogs, or captivating social media posts, they navigate a virtual realm that transcends borders.

Longchamp and Robert Indiana celebrate shared values of graphic simplicity, inventive design, and optimistic colors with a new capsule collection

Online platforms provide fertile ground for monetization, enabling creators to earn through diverse channels like ad revenue, sponsorships, and direct fan support. The democratization of content creation has empowered individuals to build global audiences, challenging traditional media.

This shift not only redefines entertainment but also sparks conversations, fosters communities, and drives cultural change. In the digital era, content creators are architects of the global narrative, molding opinions, and redefining success.

Smart Communications, Inc. acknowledges the importance of supporting content creators, leading to the introduction of the Smart Power Program. This initiative presents a lucrative opportunity for creators to augment their income while engaging with their followers.

By seamlessly integrating affiliate marketing principles, the Smart Power P r o g r a m empowers content creators to effortlessly promote Smart products and services, securing commissions for each successful referral sale.

As your followers use Elevate your your link to make earning potential purchases, you’ll earn by participating a commission of up in this hassle-free to 30 percent. program. If you’re Smart Power eager to explore Smart Power Program empowers content creators to partners this opportunity, effortlessly earn money while promoting products and Program services also enjoy the visit the Smart Power Program portal to apply and delve benefits of passive income, meaning they can earn money even when they’re not into the details.

To get started, simply generate a unique actively creating content. Additionally, the Power Partner link and incorporate program’s user-friendly application process your content, and performance-tracking dashboard make it into such as blog posts, it easy to get started and stay on top of your social m e d i a earnings.

To become a Smart Power Partner, posts, or videos. submit an application through the Smart

Content creators have been taking the social world by storm proving entertainment to netizens

Smart Power Program also allows content creators to enjoy the benefits of passive income even when they’re not actively creating content

Power Program portal. This involves providing personal or business information, along with links to your social media or content platforms.

Additionally, furnish necessary documentation, including ID/ Proof of Identification, BIR Form 2303 (Certificate of Registration), and a sample of your BIRregistered Acknowledgement Receipt or Official Receipt.

Following a swift review of your application and requirements, approval will be granted promptly, ushering you into the realm of Smart Power Partners.

ICONIC ARTWORK MEETS UNIVERSALLY BELOVED BAG LONGCHAMP and Robert Indiana have teamed up to release a capsule collection that celebrates shared values of graphic simplicity, inventive design, and optimistic colors. The collection features Indiana’s iconic Love image reproduced in three colorways on the Le Pliage travel bag, shoulder bag, pouch, and two new square iterations of the bag.

The collection also includes a cowhide leather Le Pliage XS embossed with the Love image in three monochrome colorways, as well as a cowhide leather keychain, a red-onwhite cotton T-shirt, a grey cotton sweatshirt, and a silk scarf featuring Indiana’s brightly colored numbers.

In addition, Longchamp has released several exclusive bags interpreting additional Indiana artworks, including a black cowhide leather Le Pliage XS featuring Indiana’s number eight, a symbol of good luck in Chinese culture, and a very exclusive edition of a black cowhide leather Le Pliage XS embossed with a red Love emblem. A yellow Le Pliage tote bag exclusive to the United States is also available.

The Longchamp x Robert Indiana collection is available now at Longchamp boutiques and online.

A very exclusive edition of a black cowhide leather Le Pliage XS comes embossed with a red Love emblem. A yellow Le Pliage tote bag exclusive.

INSPIRING FILIPINO YOUTH TO EMBRACE PASSION, CREATIVITY, AUTHENTICITY

Visual artist Raco Ruiz

VANS Philippines launches its new campaign featuring three talented Filipinos, actress and gamer Sharlene San Pedro, visual artist Raco Ruiz Ruiz, and musician Syd Hartha Hartha.

The campaign called #ThisIsOffTheWall, highlights the importance of embracing one’s passion, creativity, and authenticity. Vans believes that when people are true to themselves, they can achieve anything they set their minds to.

Sharlene is known for her laidback fashion sense and her love of gaming. She is an inspiration to many for her determination and her willingness to be herself.

Raco is a surrealist artist who is also known for his work as a director and host.

His colorful artwork is a reflection of his cheerful personality. He is a true embodiment of Vans’ #OffTheWall spirit, which celebrates individuality and creativity.

Syd is an indie musician who is known for her authentic songwriting and her commitment to self-expression. She is also an accomplished skateboarder. Syd is an inspiration to many for her courage to be herself and her commitment to her passions. #ThisIsOffTheWall campaign is a celebration of creativity, authenticity, and self-expression. It is a reminder that when people are true to themselves, they can achieve anything they set their minds to.

Musician and songwriter Syd Hartha

Actress and gamer Sharlene San Pedro

C2 | NOVEMBER 12, 2023

ENTERTAINMENT

, NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer email: lifeandshow.manilastandard @gmail.com

MICHELLE MARQUEZ DEE’S JOURNEY OF TRIUMPH, LEGACY, AND ADVOCACY Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Marquez Dee is vying for the country’s fifth Miss Universe crown this coming Saturday

Michelle (right) inherits her beauty and charm from her mom, Melanie Marquez

PLDT chairman Manny V. Pangilinan (center) with Miss Universe Philippines 2023 winners

““I

T felt like forever.”

This is how Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Marquez Dee described the moment when she was announced as the winner last May. “All you can hope for is that destiny is on your side — and it was on that night of May 13. When they finally called my name, honestly, I just felt like all the hard work paid off. When you’ve dedicated your whole life and everything for that moment to happen, mapapabagsak ka. I actually bent over because of relief, happiness, and gratitude.”

Michelle is now in El Salvador representing the Philippines at Miss Universe.

She is the finest fit, even PLDT Inc. Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan himself said upon meeting her, along with the other Miss Universe Philippines queens at a PLDT and Smart exclusive meet-and-greet with executives and employees at Ramon Cojuangco Building in Makati City.

“We could think of no better woman to proudly bear the flag at this year’s Miss Universe pageant than Michelle,” Pangilinan said. “She is smart with her confidence and authentic with her advocacies. We at PLDT fully stand beside her. We have no doubt that she will be one of the strongest queens in the field, and that she will go very far.”

Deepening her connections Michelle celebrates, and at the same time, bears on her shoulders the legacy of her mother Melanie Marquez in the pageant world. Melanie is the youngest Miss International, winning the title when she was only 15 years old in 1979. Later on, she became a successful actress, starring in comedy films and TV sitcoms.

An actress, model, and PLDT Home ambassador, Michelle enjoys a close relationship with her parents and siblings, with whom she always stays connected through video calls.

“My mom is one of my biggest inspirations. She is responsible for why I am so strong,” she says. “She is somebody that I really look up to. She was nothing but proud. She instilled in my mind that I should shine as my own woman, be confident in what I have and what I have to offer.”

On the night Michelle won, pageant fans went wild when they saw what netizens dubbed “the snake walk.” She recalls, “The inspiration was really my

mother. My trainer Ian Mendajar and I were conceptualizing the walk and really trying to personalize my choreography. We had always aspired to integrate my mom as an inspiration throughout my journey and we felt like this was the right moment.”

Michelle wanted to do something special during the coronation night because it was Mother’s Day the following day. “I dedicated my whole journey to my mom and my family. I owe it to them that I’m a strong and empowered individual.”

Michelle’s pageant journey began in 2019 with her Miss World Philippines win, delayed by the pandemic. In 2022, she secured Miss Universe Philippines Tourism. Despite sleepdeprived days balancing a role in Mga Lihim ni Urduja and the MUP competition, she maintained close ties with family and friends.

Michelle, fueled by PLDT Home’s speedy broadband, discovered her positive influence on fans, particularly inspiring young girls in and outside the pageant world.

“Miss Universe is undoubtedly one of the biggest platforms to really create positive change around the world, and that’s my main goal. I want to set a great example for people to become empowered and transformational leaders,” she says.

Spreading the word on her causes Now that she has an enormous opportunity to push her advocacies and start conversations around autism, Michelle says that everything she does must have a purpose.

“My two siblings on the autism spectrum are my lifelong mission. Being able to give to them what they need and to be a part of the solution is something that I don’t take lightly.

I know the kind of life I want them to live, I know what is lacking in the Philippines and the world. It means the world to me to be part of such a positive change for my siblings and for everybody that’s on the autism spectrum as well.”

“At Autism Society Philippines, we see every individual on the spectrum as having their own talent and we want them to live fulfilled and empowered lives. That’s why I really advocate for acceptance, inclusivity, and awareness. My two siblings were also there during the coronation night, cheering for me. I knew that they understood that this competition was for them,” she adds.

Michelle is a true example of a Filipino who embraces all, transcending color, gender, and status. From a young age, she engaged in family charities. Now, she leads the Inner Peace Foundation, founded by her grandmother 40 years ago “My father always taught me that if you have the means to give back, then you should always give back. I’m so grateful to have such strong pillars in my life, teaching me that the only way to go is to make sure that people around you are safe and taken care of.”

Michelle takes to heart the lesson her family taught her: “To always walk life full of gratitude, love and kindness.”

Michelle (left) considers her mom, Melanie, as her biggest inspiration and the source of her strength

Michelle (left) with mom, actress, and Miss International 1979 Melanie Marquez

PLDT Home Ambassador Michelle Marquez Dee with brother Mazen

KD FINDS GENUINE LOVE IN NEW SINGLE KAPAMILYA singer-actor KD Estrada opens up about enjoying life with his beloved and forgetting all the troubles in the world in his new single “Be With U.” The 21-year-old rising star composed the upbeat and groovy track, produced by Star Pop label head Roque “Rox” Santos.

KD rose to prominence after his stint as a celebrity housemate in Pinoy Big Brother:

Kumunity Season 10. Since then, he has continued to showcase his musicality in various Kapamilya shows like Mahal Ba Kita? from the web series Bola Bola and Dreams Don’t Wait from the primetime series Marry Me, Marry You. Early this year, he released the single “Love Led Us Here,” earning over 280,000 streams on Spotify. His latest single “Be With U”

was featured on Spotify’s New Music Friday Philippines playlist.

As a promising actor, KD has displayed his charms and talent in the iWantTFC series Unloving You and the acclaimed musical play Walang Aray. Currently, he plays the role of Elon in the afternoon series PiraPirasong Paraiso with on-screen partner Alexa Ilacad.

Kapamilya singeractor KD Estrada

CRAVINGS CRAV CRA INGS

JOYCE PANGCO PAÑARES, Issue Editor email: joyce.panares@gmail.com

NOVEMBER 12, 2023 |

C3

THE KING IS HERE TO STAY

KING SUE PRESERVES HERITAGE WHILE EMBRACING INNOVATION

By Joyce Babe Pañares

W

HEN Cu Un Kay, an immigrant from Fookien, China, began his ham and sausage business in 1930 in what is now known as Caloocan City, he started with a single adobe stove.

He had 20 employees back then – a workforce that was sometimes augmented

by Cu himself, his wife, and their 10 children, especially when there was an unexpected surge in orders.

Ninety-three years later, the adobe stove has since been preserved in the site where Cu’s small enterprise started and the number of workers has grown to at least 600. Cu’s grandchild, Richie Brian King, is also now the company’s operations manager.

“All of us kids have stayed in the ancestral house that was right beside the factory. So, at one point or another, we all helped at the factor. I was the cashier after school work. I also helped prepare hotdogs,” he said in an interview during a live cooking demonstration of Chef Gene Gonzalez using King Sue meat and deli products at Café Ysabel in San Juan.

“Our company’s story is really one of resilience, tradition, and innovation,” added the 39-year-old King.

Cafe Ysabel's Chef Gene Gonzalez prepares his menudo Sulipeña using King Sue’s ham and other deli products

King Sue operations manager Richie Brian King

King Sue’s meat suppliers, for example, have been their partners for over half a century now.

“The people I talk to now are also the children or grandchildren of the people my lolo talked to,” he said.

And in full-circle fashion, King’s own sixyear-old daughter knows her way around the factory, and has taken a liking to preparing chicken nuggets.

“I was surprised – once she worked nonstop for about two hours. She was fascinated with chicken nuggets,” he said.

“I paid her the daily minimum wage that day, but my wife said mahal (expensive) for two hours work,” King happily recalled as he and members of the media sampled Chef Gene’s version of banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) and menudo Sulipeña (oxtail stew) using King Sue’s ham and other deli products.

The recipe of King Sue’s Chinese ham, despite the acquisition of modern machines to make the production more efficient, has remained the same almost a century since King’s grandfather first prepared it.

“Lolo’s recipe is what we follow to this day… We hold our rich history to high esteem even as we find ourselves brimming with excitement as we peer into the future,” he said.

For King, the direction is to focus on restaurants, hotels, catering busi businesses, and pizza houses – markets which he said are best suited for King Sue’s newer products such as pepperoni, salami, Hungarian sausage, and bacon, among others.

“The supermarket segment is where we grew. But we are in a tran transition phase now. The restaurant and hotel market – that is where the growth potential is,” he said.

Moving forward, King said the company will also invest more in

King Sue founder Cu Un Kay

Sliced ham

King Sue products have consistently delighted Filipino tastebuds for almost a century now

Sliced bacon

marketing, with the younger generation of executives recognizing the need to prop up their brand on traditional and social media.

This might just solve their happy problem of people patronizing their products over the years, but still mispronouncing the brand’s name.

“It’s King Sue, pronounced King Su-weh. King is from our surname, and su-weh is a Fookien word which means small. It was a term of endearment for our grandfather – small king,” he said.

Despite the many other competitors in the market now, King remains bullish. After all, not many can claim almost a hundred years of market presence – creating happy memories among countless families that have

European sausages

enjoyed their products.

“Our products are consistent and delicious, and we have 93 years of tradition, quality and heritage to back us up,” he said.

HAPAG: GOURMET GIVING CHEFS GIVE BACK WITH HOLIDAY FUNDRAISER FOR Filipinos, the word “hapag” does not just mean the physical dining table. It is an experience that warms the heart – that of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones and relishing the time spent together.

This was the inspiration behind Txoko Asador Restaurante Executive Chef Albert Mendoza’s special menu for “Gourmet Giving Series: A Fine Dining Thanksgiving Experience for the Hapag Movement” launched this month as part of a Globe-led holiday fundraiser for Filipino families who have little or none to share in their own “hapag.”

“What inspired us is the name of the movement – Hapag. Our idea is to have our customers dine like a family, reaching out and passing on certain dishes and enjoying a meal together,” Mendoza said.

The special menu of the top-caliber modern Spanish restaurant in Makati is something to look forward to this month. It will include a 10-course tasting menu featuring the best of Basque and Castilian cuisine, with wine pairing to boot.

Multi-awarded Filipino-British Chef Josh Bout-

wood said taking part in the Gourmet Giving series for the Hapag Movement is a way of giving back to the community as the industry continued to recover from the pandemic slump.

“Our industry was impacted during the pandemic. We also saw the stresses, heartaches of our team members as well during the time. As the economy is bouncing back, it’s the perfect time for us to collaborate with Fine Dining Club Philippines and Globe to do some good. We’re going to put a little bit of our hard work to this meaningful cause,” Boutwood said.

Mendoza’s Txoko Asador and Boutwood’s Ember, Helm and Test Kitchen are among 12 top restaurants taking part in the Gourmet Giving Series, which is being held in partnership with the 23,300-strong Fine Dining Club Philippines Facebook community.

Gourmet Giving Series, said Globe Digital and Social Strategy Head RG Orense, calls on foodies and fine dining enthusiasts to bring their passion offline to create real-world impact.

“We are using the power of the social media

community to help transform and uplift the lives of The Hapag Movement beneficiaries. We believe that engaging with Facebook’s Fine Dining Club Philippines is leveraging the platform’s passion for food to also make a purposeful difference,” Orense said.

“We are so grateful to have all the top chefs from Metro Manila to support the Hapag Movement. The Gourmet Giving Series is about being able to gather people together, break bread, and really spend time with family while giving back to those who have much less. We encourage all of you to get involved,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer.

The Gourmet Giving Series will hold special dinner events from Nov. 20 to 30 in support of the Hapag Movement.

Ember's tuna tartare with avocado and crispy tapioca

The Test Kitchen's steak with zucchini strips

Txoko's Pulpo ala Brasa (grilled octopus with black mashed potato)

Helm's duck with guyabano

*** Txoco Asador’s special dinner for the Gourmet Giving series is scheduled on Nov. 20, 2023 at P5,500 per person. Those who would like to get a taste of their special Hapag Movement menu may make reservations via 09560473224.

The Gourmet Giving Series will begin for Boutwood on Nov. 23 at the Test Kitchen, with a six-course tasting menu available at P5,800 per person. Please call 09772885751 for reservations.

Ember will hold its special Gourmet Giving Series dinner on Nov. 24, offering a six-course tasting menu for the first and only time at P5,800 per head.

Reservations may be made via 09164201600.

And finally, Boutwood’s Helm will offer its special dinner on November 25, with an eightcourse tasting menu available for PHP6,900. For reservations, please call 09159098647.

(To learn more about the Hapag Movement, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/about-us/sustainability/globe-of-good.html#gref.)

PETS

C4 | NOVEMBER 12, 2023

DESIREE CARLOS, Editor email: daycarlos28@yahoo.com

COPING WITH THE LOSS OF A PET

By Niko Gabriel Salgado

M

OST owners consider pets as cherished members of the family. They form deep, loving connections with their pets.

When a pet dies, it can be emotionally overwhelming for a lot of owners.

Even if others do not understand it, this grief is valid. The intensity of it may vary based on factors like an owner’s age, personality, the pet's age, and the circumstances of their passing.

“Loss is an inevitable part of owning a pet, but there are ways to handle the pain, work through grief, and eventually, when the times is right, consider welcoming a new animal companion into your life,” says Rena Goldman in “How to Cope When You’re Grieving the Loss of a Pet” published in the Psych Central website.

The grieving process

Grief is a personal journey. It varies from person to person. Some individuals go through distinct stages of grief when they lose a pet, including denial, anger, guilt, depression, and finally, acceptance and resolution. Even years later, certain triggers like a familiar sight, sound, or a special anniversary can bring back strong feelings of grief. · The grieving process takes time. Grieving cannot be rushed, and there is no specific or "normal" time frame for it. Some individuals begin to recover after a few weeks or months, while others may take years to heal. Regardless of how long it takes, it is important to be patient with one’s self and let the grieving process occur naturally. · Experiencing sadness and pain is a typical response to the death of a cherished pet.

Showing these emotions does not mean one is weak or has misdirected feelings. It simply shows that you are grieving the loss of a beloved family member. It is okay to grieve.

There is no need to feel embarrassed about it. · Attempting to suppress your pain or prevent it from emerging only makes it worse in the long run. To truly heal, you must confront your grief and actively address it. Express your pain and sorrow with others. Write about your emotions.

Coping with the grief

Although grief is a personal experience, you do not need to face your loss alone. Here are a few suggestions to help you cope from Goldman: · Don't let anyone tell you how to feel, and don't tell yourself how to feel either. Your grief is your own, and no one else can tell you when it is time to “move on.”

Lucas was 15 years old when he died of cancer. The older the dog, the more painful it is for the furparent. It is more difficult for any human when a pet dog dies after years of companionship, love and friendship. To honor Lucas, furparent Joey Salgado and family is now fostering Siopao, a senior chichuahua who was abandoned and rescued by Save ALL.

· Reach out to others who have lost pets. · Memorialize. Preparing a memorial, planting a tree in memory of your pet, compiling a photo album or scrapbook, or sharing the memories you enjoyed with your pet in social media. · The stress of losing a pet can quickly deplete your energy and emotional reserves. Looking after your physical and emotional needs will help you get through this difficult time. · If you have other pets, try to maintain your normal routine. · Seek professional help if you need it.

Tips for seniors grieving the death of a pet

Dealing with the death of a pet can be especially challenging for older individuals. Seniors who live on their own might experience a sense of purposelessness and emptiness. The loss of a pet can also bring back painful memories of other losses.

Furthermore, if they wish to have another pet, it can be a complex decision due to concerns that the new pet might outlive them or that they may not have the physical capability to care for it one day.

Due to these factors, it is crucial for senior pet

Richie was 22-24 years old when he passed away peacefully in his sleep. Two vets said he was 12-14 when he was rescued by Save Animals of Love and Light -Save ALL from the Cainta pound 10 years ago. Richie contracted distemper and other illnesses while in the pound. He was a fighter and healed completely after two months of treatment. He gave Save ALL admins 10 years of love and joy. To honor him, Save ALL continued feeding stray and hungry dogs.

owners to take immediate steps to manage their grief and find a renewed sense of purpose.

Helping children grieve the loss of a pet

Trying to shield your child by telling them the pet ran away is not ideal to helping them navigate their grief in a healthy manner. This approach can lead the child to anticipate the pet's return and feel betrayed or confused when they eventually learn the truth.

If the pet's death is anticipated, it is better to prepare children for the loss and let them say their goodbyes.

In the case of an unexpected pet death, it is essential to explain what happened in a way that's appropriate for their age.

“They might experience guilt, sadness, or fear of losing other loved ones. Sharing your own grief, writing letters, drawing pictures of your pet can demonstrate to your child that it's okay to feel sad and can assist them in processing their emotions, both for them and you,” says Goldman.

Getting another dog or cat after pet loss “There are numerous compelling reasons to

welcome another animal companion into your life, but the timing of this decision is highly individual,” says Goldman.

“While it might be tempting to quickly replace the void left by the loss of your pet by getting a new one, in most situations, it is advisable to first grieve for your previous pet.

You should wait until you are emotionally prepared to embrace a new animal into your life,” Goldman adds.

One way to ease into this transition is by considering volunteering at an animal shelter or rescue group. This not only benefits the animals but can also assist you in determining if you are ready to take on the responsibility of a new pet.

And when you are ready, remember that an animal shelter or rescue is a great place to find your next special friend.

About the Author: Niko Gabriel Salgado is a graduate of consular and diplomatic affairs from De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, and worked at the House of Representatives. He is now an entrepreneur and a volunteer of the animal welfare group Save Animals of Love and Light- Save ALL.

A GENTLE FAREWELL FOR BELOVED PETS

By Mariana Burgos PARTING with a beloved pet is a deeply emotional experience, one that fills every pet owner with a sense of sadness. These faithful companions offer constant affection and camaraderie over the course of their lives, evolving into cherished family members.

When the time comes to say goodbye, it is only natural to seek a compassionate and eco-friendly way to honor their memory.

In recent years, a novel option known as "aquamation" has gained popularity as a gentle and sustainable alternative to traditional pet cremation.

Aquamation: A Brief Overview

Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, is a process that provides a dignified and environmentally friendly way to lay a beloved pet (or human) to rest. The method has its origins in the medical and biotech fields, where it was initially used for research and body disposal.

Over time, aquamation evolved into a compassionate choice for pet owners who seek an alternative to traditional pet cremation or burial.

The Process

Aquamation involves the gentle breakdown of a pet's remains through a combination of water, heat, and alkaline chemicals. The process takes place in a specialized chamber that resembles a stainless-steel bath. The process is both respectful and thorough, ensuring that furry friends are treated with the utmost care.

Water and Alkaline Solution: The pet's body is placed in the chamber along with a mixture of water and an alkaline solution.

This combination is heated to around 160180 degrees Fahrenheit, effectively accelerating the natural decomposition process.

Hydrolysis Reaction: The heated alkaline solution initiates a chemical reaction called hydrolysis, which breaks down the pet's organic materials into their basic components. Over a period of several hours, this process dissolves soft tissues, leaving only bone fragments behind.

Separation of Remains: After the completion of the aquamation process, the bone fragments are separated from the liquid solution.

These remains are then dried, pulverized, and returned to the pet owner in an urn, much like the traditional cremation process.

This is a pouch of ashes of a pet that went through the process of aquamation. (Photo from Getty royaltyfree images.)

Environmentally Friendly

One of the key benefits of aquamation is the fact that it is environmentfriendly. It produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions than traditional cremation and does not require the energy-intensive high temperatures of cremation, making it a more sustainable option. A reference material from the Green Burial Council suggests that aquamation has a significantly smaller carbon footprint than other aftercare methods, making it a viable choice for pet owners concerned about their ecological impact.

Gentle on the Remains

Traditional cremation exposes pet remains to high temperatures, resulting in the loss of most organic matter and sometimes causing concerns about the dignity of the process. In contrast, aquamation is a gentle and respectful way to handle pet remains. The process minimizes the impact on the bones, preserving a greater portion of the pet's remains and leaving behind a powdery, bone ash. This can be especially comforting to pet owners, as the remains of their beloved companions maintain a

more recognizable form.

Pet owners who have opted for aquamation have often reported a sense of peace and closure that stems from knowing their pets were treated with respect and care in their final moments.

This gentle approach allows pet owners to say their farewells in a more serene and comforting manner.

A Customizable Memorial

Many aquamation facilities offer various options for commemorating a pet's memory. These include personalized urns, memorial jewelry, and even the incorporation of pet remains into keepsakes like glass ornaments or decorative stones. This customization provides pet owners with a range of meaningful ways to remember and honor their furry friends. An article from the International Association of Pet Cemeteries & Crematories highlights the importance of these memorial options in the grieving process, as they allow pet owners to create a lasting tribute to their pets.

Accessing Aquamation Services in the Philippines

This is the viewing room. (Photo from Getty royalty-free images.)

This is the chamber used for aquamation.

(Photo from Getty royalty-free images.)

For pet owners in the Philippines seeking the compassionate and eco-friendly

option of aquamation for their beloved companions, there are several facilities that offer these services. Among them, the "Pet to Nature" center in Marikina stands out as a leading provider of aquamation services in the country. Located in a serene and peaceful environment, Pet to Nature is dedicated to providing a dignified and gentle farewell for your pets.

Aquamation offers a compassionate and sustainable alternative for pet owners facing the loss of their beloved companions.

Its environmentally friendly nature, gentle treatment of remains, and the ability to customize memorials make it an increasingly attractive choice for those seeking a dignified farewell for their pets.

As the practice of aquamation continues to gain recognition, pet owners are finding solace in knowing that they can provide their furry friends with the same level of love and care in their final moments as they received throughout their lives.

About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a freelance artist. She has been a solo parent for 16 years now because she is wife to a desaparecido. She and her daughter are animal lovers and are active in advocating not only human rights but the rights of animals as well.