Manila Standard - 2023 November 13 - Monday

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MARCOS URGES SENATE TO RATIFY ILO ACCORD

MARUBENI EYES MORE PH INVESTMENTS

NEWS / A3

BUSINESS / B3

MARCOS’ CIF REPORT VERY DETAILED—ZUBIRI NEWS / A4

OBIENA, GILAS LEAD PSA ACHIEVERS SPORTS / C1

VOL. XXXVII • NO. 271 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023 •

Senators seek probe on passport mess

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

S

ENATORS on Sunday called for an investigation into how some foreigners were able to obtain authentic, governmentissued IDs—including passports—with one lawmaker warning that the budget for the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) could be recalled over the issue.

Speaker Martin Romualdez

Maharlika IRR to shield fund from political interference

By Maricel V. Cruz SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Sunday said the final implementing rules and regulations (IRR) governing the Maharlika Investment Corp. would protect the fund from the dangers of political interference.

“This move is a significant step towards enhancing corporate governance and ensuring that the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) is managed with the utmost transparency and accountability,” Romualdez said, as he praised President Marcos’ commitment to “strengthening the independence”’ of the MIC’s board of directors.

“The autonomy of the MIC Board allows for more objective and effective decision-making, free from undue political influence. This is crucial in overseeing a fund of this magnitude, which is pivotal to our nation’s economic growth,” Romualdez said.

“The final IRR, as introduced by the President, clarifies the board’s discretionary powers while ensuring adherence to the law and alignment with the nation’s socioeconomic development program,” he said.

Romualdez expressed confidence that the latest development will mean “a more robust and stable economy” where even ordinary Filipinos stand to benefit, as this will pave the way

Senator Imee Marcos on Sunday joined calls for a thorough investigation of the problem, after the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) said a certain group provides authentic government IDs to foreigners working for Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (PONext page GOs).

Recall ambassador to China over WPS tensions–Tolentino

By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Vince Lopez SENATOR Francis Tolentino on Sunday urged President Marcos to recall the Philippine ambassador to Beijing to emphasize the country’s displeasure over Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Tolentino said the temporary recall of Ambassador Jaime Florcruz would send a strong message to Beijing that what they have done is a serious violation of the Philippines’ right to conduct a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal, which is within the country’s exclusive economic zone.

He said this did not mean Manila would sever diplomatic relations with China.

“It would just be a way of telling them to stop and

LET IT SNOW.

A kid enjoys fake snow made of soap suds at the Baguio Christmas Village at the Baguio Country Club. Angie de Silva

Next page

Next page

HOLIDAYS FOR PETS, TOO. Fur

parents and their fur babies dress up in Christmas-themed costumes at Ayala Malls Vertis North in Quezon City. Manny Palmero

39 Pinoys waiting to flee Gaza as battles heighten

By Rey E. Requejo AT LEAST 39 Filipinos remaining in Gaza are expected to cross the border to Egypt “as soon as possible,” the Department of Migrant Workers on Sunday said.

DMW officer-in-charge Hans Leo Cacdac said at least 71.5 percent or 98

out of the 137 Filipinos based in Gaza were already evacuated to Egypt, and some have been repatriated back to the Philippines.

“The crossing [from Gaza to Egypt] continues, and they said that the remaining 39 Filipinos will also be able to cross as soon as possible,” Cacdac said in an interview with dzBB.

Gaza’s border authority announced on Saturday that the Rafah land crossing into Egypt would reopen on Sunday for foreign passport holders and dependents.

The first batch of Filipinos repatriated from Gaza arrived in the Philippines on Friday. The group was composed of 34 Filipinos and one Palestinian national.

Next page

Witnesses identify one of three Solons back call suspects in broadcaster’s murder to split Meralco

By Vince Lopez and Maricel Cruz THREE witnesses identified a suspect in the killing of Misamis Occidental radio broadcaster Juan Jumalon, also known as DJ Johnny Walker.

The suspect, Misamis Occidental police director Col. Dwight Monato said, was reportedly a gun-for-hire in the province.

“We already have the name and background of one of the three possible suspects. This is a good starting point in any investigation,” Monato said.

On Wednesday, the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) Johnny Walker submitted the complaint for murder and theft against one of Jumalon’s three attackers and released a computer-generated sketch of the suspect’s face.

The Presidential Task Force on Media Security handed over Speaker Martin Romualdez’s P250,000 worth of assistance to the family of the slain broadcaster.

“After suddenly losing a breadwinner, it’s really difficult for a family to pick up the pieces and carry on with their lives,” Romualdez said.

Next page

‘mega-franchise’

By Maricel V. Cruz Two lawmakers voiced support for a proposal to review and split into three the franchise that Congress had given Meralco which has been described as “too big.”

The proposal, first made by Laguna Rep. Dan Fernandez in a privilege speech, urged the House of Representatives to conduct a review of the mega-franchise and divide it into three Next page

NEWS

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Witnesses...

From A1

LAKE RIDE.

Tourists enjoy the boating experience with their loved ones at the Burnham Lake in Baguio City on Sunday, Nov. 12, 2023. The park was designed by American architect and Baguio City planner, Daniel Burnham in the early 1900s. Joey O. Razon

Senators...

From A1

These IDs included those from the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Philippine Health Insurance Corp., the PAOCC said.

Senator Marcos said it was reprehensible to hear that the Philippines has become a playground for criminals around the world.

“This is scary and should be investigated thoroughly,” she said in Filipino.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, who has also called for a probe, said the bigger concern was that the country might be giving fugitives from other countries new identities here.

The BIR and PhilHealth earlier said

Recall..

From A1

that they are going overboard, hoping they would finally notice us because we have filed hundreds of diplomatic protests,” Tolentino said.

He said recalling the ambassador was one way to protest the latest water cannoning by Chinese Coast Guard of a Philippine supply boat on the way to Ayungin Shoal.

Meanwhile, the commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said the actions attributed to the Chinese Coast Guard “do not align with the universally accepted behavior of a coast guard.”

“They are supposed to ensure safety of life at sea, but they are the ones that deliberately violate the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea,” said PCG commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan.

Gavin said the Chinese vessels’ actions cast “significant doubt” about their real identity.

Video footage from the PCG showed how a CCG vessel deployed its water cannon against a Philippine ship on a resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal on Nov. 10 in the WPS. CCG vessel 5203 could be seen in the video training its water cannon on M/L Kalayaan as the latter made its way toward Ayungin Shoal.

M/L Kalayaan was one of two supply boats, the other one being Unaizah Mae 1, on a mission then to deliver supplies to Filipino troops stationed at the Philippine Navy ship BRP Sierra Madre which has been grounded since 1999 on Ayungin Shoal. The boats were accompanied by PCG vessels such as the BRP Melchora Aquino.

“CCG vessel 5203 deployed water cannon against Philippine supply vessel M/L Kalayaan in an illegal though unsuccessful attempt to force the latter to alter course,” the National Task ForceWest Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) said in a statement last Friday.

“Supply boats Unaizah Mae 1 (UM1) and M/L Kalayaan were also subjected to extremely reckless and dangerous harassment at close proximity by CCG rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIB) inside

Maharlika...

From A1

for “more job opportunities, improved public services, and a higher standard of living.”

“The MIF, if managed independently and efficiently, can significantly contribute to the nation’s socioeconomic development, aligning with the government’s broader goals,” he said.

The revised IRR gave the President authority to accept or reject nominees in the MIC board of directors and removed the specific advanced educational degree requirements for those who can be appointed to manage the country’s first sov-

they would investigate the matter, with the tax agency wanting to check if the confiscated IDs were indeed authentic.

In a radio interview, Senator Ramon dela Rosa said the P24 billion budget of the DFA could be jeopardized over the issuance of passports to foreigners.

He told radio dzBB that the granting of Philippine passports to foreigners could jeopardize national security.

He added that the budget, which has already hurdled the Senate, may still be recalled.

During the hearing Wednesday night, DFA officials were quizzed on the release of Philippine passports to foreigners.

The DFA officials said they merely relied on the birth certificate from the PSA, saying the birth certificates and the passports were all genuine.

In the same hearing, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri noted that several Chinese nationals in the CARAGA region were holders of Philippine passports.

Zubiri said he would ask the Senate Blue Ribbon committee chaired by Senator Francis Tolentino or the committee on public order to conduct an inquiry.

Earlier, Senator Aquilino Pimentel III said officials of the PSA would be summoned back to the Senate to explain the issuance of birth certificates to foreigners, which enabled them to get Philippine passports.

He said a foreigner who is issued a certified true copy of a birth certificate can use it to secure a Philippine passport.

The Senate on Thursday night agreed to recall the plenary approval of the PSA budget for 2024 due to the uncovered ir-

regularity.

Hontiveros last week urged Malacanang to ban POGOs to protect the country’s national security.

During the hearing on the proliferation of scam hubs in the Philippines, the senator expressed grave concern over the government ID cards fraudulently obtained for Chinese nationals who worked in Smart Web Technology, the recently raided company in Pasay City.

She said the IDs issued to these Chinese nationals enabled them to become legal residents in the Philippines and to get Philippine passports.

“Considering our current dispute in the West Philippine Sea, it is alarming that we are giving an all-access pass to our country to Chinese citizens through these POGO hubs,” Hontiveros said.

Ayungin Shoal lagoon during their approach to BRP Sierra Madre,” it added.

“We condemn, once again, China’s latest unprovoked acts of coercion and dangerous maneuvers against a legitimate and routine Philippine rotation and resupply mission,” it said.

On Friday, the Philippine government said it filed a diplomatic protest against China after the water cannon incident.

The PCG said on Saturday it had documented 38 Chinese vessels within the vicinity of the Ayungin Shoal during its latest resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre.

“The total number of Chinese vessels that we detected during the supply operation was 16 maritime militia vessels that were physically monitored, 12 Chinese militia vessels, five China Coast Guard vessels, and five People’s Liberation Army [vessels],” PCG spokesperson on the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela said in a media briefing.

“In total, we can say that there were a total of 38 Chinese vessels that were present within the vicinity of Ayungin Shoal during this particular resupply operation,” he added.

Tarriela said that not all 38 Chinese vessels were involved in the blocking operations against the PCG vessels.

“Based on the presentation that we gave, there were only six CMMVs (Chinese maritime militia vessels) that actively participated in the blocking operations, and there were five CCG vessels,” he said.

China has consistently tried to block and harass resupply ships going to Ayungin Shoal.

Also over the weekend, Senator Christopher Go lashed back at CCG spokesperson Gan Yu for claiming that they acted lawfully and “made temporary special arrangements for the Philippines side to transport food and other daily necessities” to its troops in the BRP Sierra Madre.

“How can they speak of the rule of law while simultaneously violating international norms?” Go said.

He also deplored China for violating the sovereign rights of other nations by putting Filipinos’ lives at risk with their bullying tactics.

39 Pinoys..

Intense fighting raged around Gaza’s biggest hospital Sunday where doctors said thousands of Palestinians were trapped in dire conditions, as Israel pledged to help evacuate babies from the crippled facility.

Gaza City’s Al-Shifa hospital has been caught in Israel’s ground offensive aimed at destroying Hamas, and the compound has been repeatedly hit by gunfire and strikes, one of which Hamas health officials said destroyed the cardiac ward on Sunday.

The Israeli military has denied deliberately targeting the hospital and has repeatedly accused the Islamist militant group ruling Gaza of using medical facilities or tunnels beneath them as command centres and hideouts – a charge Hamas denies.

Fears have intensified for patients and people taking refuge in Al-Shifa and other healthcare facilities in Gaza, and medical aid group Doctors Without Borders has warned that without a ceasefire or evacuation a hospital “will become a morgue.”

The bloodiest ever Gaza war broke out after Hamas fighters smashed through the militarised border with Israel on October 7, killing around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking about 240 people hostage, according to the most recent Israeli figures.

Israel’s relentless campaign in response has killed more than 11,000 people, also mostly civilians and including thousands of children, according to the latest figures from the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.

The ministry has not updated tolls for two days citing the collapse of hospital services.

Witnesses inside the Al-Shifa hospital told AFP by phone on Sunday that “violent fighting” had raged around the hospital the whole night.

Inside Al-Shifa hospital, Doctors Without Borders surgeon Mohammed Obeid said there was no water, power, food or internet access for about 600 post-operative patients, 37-40 babies and 17 people in intensive care.

Countless other people are seeking

refuge in the hospital grounds.

The surgeon said in an audio message posted Saturday on social media that two babies died in the Al-Shifa neonatal unit after power to their incubators was cut off and a man also died when his ventilator shut down.

The Israeli military pledged Saturday to aid the evacuation of babies from the hospital, noting that “staff of the AlShifa hospital has requested that tomorrow.”

Military spokesman Daniel Hagari pledged that “we will help the babies in the paediatric department to get to a safer hospital. We will provide the assistance needed.”

Twenty of Gaza’s 36 hospitals are “no longer functioning,” according to the UN’s humanitarian agency.

Very little aid has made it into Gaza in the five weeks of war, with the densely populated coastal territory effectively sealed off by a total blockade that Israel has vowed to maintain until the hostages are freed.

The Israeli military confirmed that a Jordanian plane dropped medical equipment and food to the Jordanian Hospital in the Gaza Strip.

The army declined to elaborate further, and Israel’s Foreign Ministry also made no comment.

As the fighting raged, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday ruled out a role for the current Palestinian Authority government in Gaza once the war is over.

“There will have to be something else there,” he said, when asked whether the Palestinian Authority (PA), which has partial administrative control in the occupied West Bank, may govern Gaza after the war.

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas, in a meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken earlier this month, said the PA could only assume power in Gaza if a “comprehensive political solution” is found for the decades-old Israel-Palestinian conflict encompassing the West Bank, east Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip.

Netanyahu, in an interview earlier this week, said that Israel would assume “overall security” over Gaza “for an indefinite period” after the war.

With AFP

ereign wealth fund.

Under Section 39 of the previous IRR, the president and chief executive officer of the MIC “must have an advanced degree (MBA, MA, MSc, PhD) in Finance, Economic, Business Administration, or a related field from a reputable university.

Additional professional certifications such as CFA or CPA are preferred.

These qualifications were removed from the revised IRR. Stringent requirements for the chief investment and operating officer have also been eased.

Additional requirements for regular and independent directors of the MIC board were also deleted.

Monetary Board member and former

national treasurer Rosalia de Leon defended the removal of certain qualification requirements for the officials of the MIC in the revised IRR. “The reason for removing the qualifications in the IRR is to give more independence to the board in determining the specific qualifications of the other officers of the MIC in order to carry out its mandate to efficiently manage the MIF,” de Leon said.

“The President wants the board to be insulated from political influence and considerations and would like to give the leeway to set the qualifications in the best way they know how based on their experience and expertise in fund management,” she said.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman also welcomed the release of the revised IRR, saying they would give the MIC board the liberty and flexibility to fulfill its mandate, while improving accountability and openness.

The Maharlika Investment Corp.

(MIC), which was created under Republic Act (RA) 11954, shall act as the sole vehicle for mobilizing and utilizing the MIF for investments in transactions to generate optimal returns on investments (ROI) while reinvigorating job creation and accelerating poverty reduction by sustaining the economy’s high growth trajectory.

“As a member of the Philippine economic team, I commit my full and un-

From A1

“No matter what the motive is behind this killing, the Philippine media lost another one of its members, and we don’t want this to keep on happening. We in Congress will take concrete steps to ensure that every member of the fourth estate is protected from these senseless killings. They must not live in fear just because of their chosen profession,” he added.

The 57-year-old Jumalon was laid to rest in Polanco, Zamboanga del Norte on Sunday.

PTFoMS executive director Paul Gutierrez visited the wake in Calamba town on Saturday. He also held separate meetings with agents from the National Bureau of Investigation and the regional office of the PNP’s Directorate for Investigation and Detection Management.

“More than the expression of sympathy and the granting of financial support, what we are after here is justice for the victim through the apprehension of the identified suspect and his confederates leading to the unmasking of the mastermind, if there is any,” Gutierrez said.

“This is the instruction of the President and I am glad to note that our law enforcement bodies are exerting their efforts to give justice to the Jumalons,” he added.

Solons...

From A1

as its sheer size is already leading to poor service and alleged abuses.

In a manifestation that followed Fernandez’s speech last Nov. 7, Laguna Rep. Ann Matibag said consistently high power rates are among the reasons that the Philippines is failing to attract foreign investors that would boost the economy.

Added to high costs is the failure to assure a stable supply of power that is turning off potential investors, Matibag said.

She said these were borne by the emergence of Meralco, largely because of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (Epira) of 2001 which allowed the utility to continue its “monopolistic practices.”

During the interpellation, ACT Teacher Rep. France Castro, for her part, said she supports Fernandez’s calls to review Meralco’s franchise.

She also voiced support to having an inquiry by the House on ERC’s failure to regulate Meralco and determine the source of lapses in power distribution.

Matibag urged her fellow legislators at the House of Representatives to support Fernandez’s proposed resolution.

Fernandez earlier said Meralco now controls at least 70 percent of Luzon’s electricity output and that it is able to also manipulate the operations of power producers and sellers.

Meralco had denied this, saying it was not factual.

Meralco said it complies with all government regulations and said Fernandez’s speech contained factual errors and was “riddled with inconsistencies.”

It also denied behaving as a monopoly.

Meralco vice president and head of corporate communications Joe Zaldarriaga also stressed that Meralco complies with all government regulations.

equivocal support for the smooth implementation of the MIF’s IRR, with trust and confidence that MIF’s managers will perform their duties and responsibilities to the best of their abilities for the good of the nation,” she said.

Albay Rep. Joey Salceda said the most important change in the IRR is that the President can now require the advisory body to submit additional names if he sees that to be necessary.

Considering that the nominees still have to pass all necessary qualifications set by the advisory body, he said that would actually widen the net “cast for appointees to lead the MIF.” “That was almost the entire point of the revision,” Salceda added.

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Gov’t expands cash, rice aid to Bukidnon

DEATH-DEFYING EXERCISE.

The Philippine Air Force deploys two S-70i Black Hawk helicopters to provide tactical airlift support for a military free fall simulation during the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Joint Exercises DagatLangit-Lupa at Culili Point in Paoay, Ilocos Norte. The free fall exercise demonstrates the interoperability of different branches of the AFP.

By Rio N. Araja THE government has expanded its cash and rice aid program to cover Bukidnon province following its successful implementation in Metro Manila and Laguna last week.

Speaker Martin Romualdez said the activity coincided with the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair being held in Bukidnon.

The Cash and Rice Distribution (CARD) program was rolled out in response to a call by President Marcos for the government to create a system meant to give the “poor and vulnerable” families opportunities to enjoy a better quality of life through the legislative districts.

Romualdez, chief proponent of the CARD program, said some 3,000 beneficiaries were given aid in Bukidnon, in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The Speaker was assisted for the Bukidnon leg of the CARD program by congressional Reps. Jonathan Keith Flores and Laarni Lavin Roque, Gov. Neil Roque, and Davao de Oro Rep. Maria Carmen Zamora.

The CARD Program was earlier launched in Metro Manila, covering all of its 33 legislative districts, with each having 10,000 beneficiaries for a total of 330,000 residents.

At least 5,000 residents in Biñan City and Sta. Rosa in Laguna were likewise assisted by the CARD program.

The beneficiaries, notably senior citizens, persons with disability, solo parents, and indigenous people, received at least P2,000 worth of cash and rice assistance, consisting of a 25-kilo sack of rice and P1,000-cash to buy other food essentials.

Marcos seeks ILO pact ratification P

RESIDENT Marcos’ endorsement for the Senate to ratify an International Labor Organization (ILO) convention seeking to end violence and harassment in the workplace would go a long way toward ensuring workers’ safety and welfare, a lawmaker said yesterday.

The ILO C190 or the Convention Concerning the Elimination of Violence and Harassment in the World of Work was adopted by the ILO Convention General Conference in Geneva, Switzerland in 2019, and then came into force in 2021.

“The President’s endorsement of ILO

Convention 190 (C190) shows his commitment in creating a better working environment,” said Rizal Rep. Fidel Nograles, chairman of the House committee on labor and Employment of the House of Representatives.

In his letter to the Senate, Marcos

said the ratification of ILO C190 “will fortify the Philippine government’s mandate and policy in promoting and protecting the rights of Filipino workers, locally and overseas, by pushing for a work environment with zero tolerance for violence and harassment.”

Nograles said he was optimistic the Senate would ratify the convention, noting it would be “a victory for the various stakeholders that have fought for better and safer conditions for Filipino workers.”

“Our ratification would be a contract with the people. This is a brave step by the government because it implies that we are willing to be judged based on what we accomplish in relation to this convention,” he said.

The convention adopts an inclusive, integrated and gender-responsive approach in protecting workers in all sectors — in the formal and informal economy and in urban or rural areas.

ILO C190 is the first-ever international treaty on violence and harassment in the world of work. Rio N. Araja

Gatchalian predicts smooth passage of 2024 budget in bicam

HERALDING THE HOLIDAYS. Papal Nuncio Charles Brown leads foreign dignitaries in touring the entries to the 16th ‘Belenismo sa Tarlac’ on Saturday evening, Nov. 11, 2023. The Belenismo sa Tarlac was initiated in 2007 by Tarlac Heritage Foundation founder Isabel Cojuangco and Dr. Isa Suntay.

Lino Santos

By Macon Ramos-Araneta SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian said he expects a smooth sailing for the P5.7trillion proposed budget for 2024 at the bicameral conference committee.

Gatchalian ruled out intense debates on the General Appropriations Act following Vice President Sara Duterte’s statement that she would no longer insist on getting confidential and intelligence funds for the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education.

“Yes, they will no longer engage in heated debates. I see that one of the most contentious issues — the confidential and intelligence funds of the Vice President — the friction has been lessened,” Gatchalian said in an interview over dwIZ.

Duterte personally talked to Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and Senate Finance committee chairperson Sonny Angara to say she was no longer pursuing her CIF as it was divisive.

The House of Representatives earlier removed P650 million in confidential funds meant for the OVP and DepEd which Duterte heads.

However, Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate committee on basic education, said the projects and programs that were supposed to be funded by Duterte’s CIF should not be neglected.

“The Vice President herself sought to remove the CIF and discussed what programs should be strengthened to boost our fight in schools,” he said.

Zubiri and Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III expressed conflicting views on Duterte’s CIF.

Barbers seeks Marcos’ housing program key to attaining smart cities—Acuzar special courts for drug cases SURIGAO del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers filed a bill seeking the creation of a Dangerous Drugs Court in all cities and provinces to hasten the disposition of at least 300,000 drug cases pending resolution in various courts nationwide.

Barbers, chairman of the House committee on dangerous drugs, said there was a backlog of 405,062 drug cases pending in various courts nationwide from over a two-year period ending in 2022, consisting of those filed by Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, the Philippine National Police, and National Bureau of Investigation.

“Out of this figure, only 28 percent or 114,610 cases have been resolved or have been handed decision by the judiciary. This means there are about 300,000 drug cases or approximately 72 percent still pending in courts as we speak,” he said.

THE master plan of the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program, a flagship program of President Marcos, complements the development of smart cities, specifically its component on township development, Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Acuzar said.

Acuzar cited “The Prospect of Smart

Cities: From a Real Estate Perspective” as timely and relevant, with the DHSUD vigorously pushing it to elevate the living conditions of the Filipino people through decent shelters in sustainable communities through the 4PH. “In the parlance of a government agency such as ours, it can only mean enhancing the quality of life of our fel-

low Filipinos through innovations and technological solutions in the housing, human settlements and urban development sectors,” he said.

The essence of developing smart cities — to bring forward the vision of improving the quality of lives in urban areas — matters most, he added.

He said this can be achieved through

DRYING PALAY.

A farmer spreads out dry palay (unhusked rice) on the pavement of the Masinloc Municipal Fish Port in Zambales.

Joey O. Razon

maximizing land uses, efficiently using our valuable resources, delicately balancing and promoting our open spaces and connecting them through networks, investing on and adoption of appropriate technological breakthroughs that will translate into realizing the cities’ or housing communities’ purpose for its local inhabitants and the general public.

Bello: Blacklist agency charging illegal fees THE Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) has called on law enforcement agencies to act against a Philippine-based agency that has been allegedly charging fees to Filipino students participating in a scholarship program in Taiwan.

MECO chairman Silvestre Bello III also called on the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to blacklist the agency, which he did not identify.

The said agency allegedly collected P45,000 from each of the 32 students who recently arrived in Taipei on Nov. 2.

The funds were supposedly meant for airfare, visa fees, the PreDeparture Orientation Seminar (PDOS), and the overseas employment certificate (OEC).

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BIG AND SMALL.

A vendor shows his miniature windmill turbines which he sells to tourists visiting the Bangui Windmill Farm in Ilocos Norte.

Manny Palmero

Senators hail President’s CIF report S

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

ENATE President Juan Miguel Zubiri said the confidential and intelligence funds (CIF) report of the Office of the President (OP) is “one of the most detailed and comprehensive” reports that he has ever seen.

Zubiri said aside from the Office of the Senate President, the office of House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez was also provided with.

He noted that the report was in two books detailing each and every disburse-

ment and that the report was “complete.”

Zubiri said for example, the report showed an anti-drug case and traced the case from the tipster to the actual filing of the case, which is now ongoing.

Senator Sonny Angara, who defend-

ed the budget of the OP, echoed Zubiri’s observations, saying the report showed where the budget has been spent.

The OP has earlier said it will seek a P2.25-billion confidential fund and a P2.3-billion intelligence fund.

Vice President Sara Duterte earlier said her office would no longer pursue its request for P500 million in confidential funds in next year’s budget.

The House of Representatives last month said it would redistribute confidential and intelligence funds (CIF) originally allotted to civilian agencies such as the Office of the Vice President

(OVP) and the DepEd to agencies that deal directly with national security issues such as the Philippine Coast Guard and the military.

At the time, Duterte branded those who opposed the P650 million in CIF for her agencies as “enemies of the state” and her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte threatened a lawmaker, ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro, and branded her a communist.

But on Thursday, the OVP’s budget sponsor, Angara, made the same announcement that the Vice President did during a budget deliberation.

DepEd, PNP to team up on Taguig probe THE Department of Education (DepEd) said it will coordinate with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to investigate the death of two high school students in Taguig City on Friday.

DepEd spokesperson Undersecretary Michael Poa said that the concerned Schools Division Office is already coordinating with the Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) team regarding the matter.

The agency also expressed sympathies to the bereaved families and offered assistance.

The Taguig City government also said it will give “full support” to the victims’ families, with Mayor Lani Cayetano also ordering an investigation.

The two female students were found dead in an office at Signal Village National High School in Taguig City on Friday.

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.

Filipino crew of attacked vessel in Black Sea set for repatriation

By Rey E. Requejo THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Sunday said all Filipinos who were on board the vessel which was damaged by a Russian missile in the Black Sea are set to be repatriated.

DMW officer-in-charge Hans Leo Cacdac said that the Liberian-flagged civilian vessel hit by the missile has an all-Filipino crew.

Cacdac stressed that they may need to be sent back home as their ship was already damaged.

Three of the Filipino crew mem-

bers have been injured following the incident. An engine trainee had a fracture on his left hand, while the two others — the ship’s captain and third mate — only suffered minor injuries.

Cacdac said the engine trainee was immediately brought to a hospital and had a “successful” operation.

Reports showed that the Russian missile hit the crew’s vessel entering a Black Sea port in Odesa region. It was supposed to transport iron ore to China, Ukraine Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said.

Protection orders can be issued ex-parte in cases vs. women, kids

By Rey E. Requejo THE Supreme Court (SC) said trial courts can issue a temporary protection order (TPO) in cases involving violence against women and children even without a notice and hearing (ex parte).

In a decision penned by Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, the SC stressed that a TPO is issued by courts

LOW WATER LEVEL.

A farmer checks his water pump dipped in a river in Pampanga.

Officials noted that water levels in irrigation systems in the town of Arayat are gradually going down. Robert Gines

“to prevent further acts of violence against women and their children, their family or household members, and to grant other necessary reliefs.”

The high court explained that the purpose “is to safeguard the offended parties from further harm, minimize any disruption in their daily life and facilitate the opportunity and ability to regain control of their lives.”

DRIED ‘BANGSI.’ A Siargao resident flips a bed of Bangsi, or yellow-wing flying fish, which she dries along the Siargao Circumferential Road.

Cayetano: Gov’t must put in resources for K to 12

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Alan Peter Cayetano said the government should put in the necessary resources if the Department of Education (DepEd) is determined to continue the K to12 curriculum.

He stressed that Philippine education

is in crisis and the government has to “fix it now,” otherwise “we’re in trouble in the next 15 years.”

“My point is, we have to decide If we are committed to K to 12,” Cayetano said, adding that the government “has the money” to address issues such as shortage of classrooms

and other resources.

Cayetano also said that “the Philippines is not poor.”

“The Philippines just had difficulties, but we have the money,” he said.

He also said the timeline does not necessarily have to be immediate and can be for four years.

Journalist Rina Jimenez-David, 68 VETERAN journalist and women’s rights advocate Rina Jimenez-David has died, her family confirmed on Sunday.

“We are saddened to announce that our mother, the indefatigable Rina Jimenez David, passed away this morning from an illness,” her daughter Miya said in a Facebook post.

David, 68, was best known for her columns for the Philippine Daily Inquirer in which she tackled women’s health issues. David joined the paper in 1988 where she wrote the column “At Large.”

She was awarded Best Columnist for Excellence in Population Reporting at the Global Media Awards in 2004.

In 2015, then-Senator Lito Lapid introduced a Senate resolution (Resolution 1222) to congratulate and commend David for being among the journalists honored by Women Deliver, a global advocate for gender equality.

She was cited for her works on championing the health and rights of girls and women.

Rina JimenezDavid

B1

OPINION

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com HONOR BLANCO CABIE, Editor

So I See

EDITORIAL

Lito Banayo

Strengthening national security

The unravelling I WAS still out of the country when the news back home reported the second demotion of the former president from one of a gaggle of deputy speakers to just an ordinary member of the HoR. Along with her second demotion was the stripping of the representative of Davao City’s 3rd district of the same “upper level” honorary title.

The first is political mentor of the vice-president whose unqualified support to the creation of a “Uni-team” gave the current leader both the votes of Mindanao and the Bisaya-speaking people, in short, fortress Duterte, to the scion of the Solid North.

The second is a loyalist of the Duterte family who has always triumphed in his Calinan and other highlands of Davao City with the support of the idolized family.

draw from the largesse of her yet too distant putative 2028 rival, smelled blood, and saw the drop in recent surveys as the perfect timing for their “kill” of her most trusted lieutenants in their midst.

The unity of “solid” North and “solid “South, as her friend and political ally calls it, has sundered. With that, the unravelling of the touted unity has reached crescendo level.

And the 2025 elections, the positioning for which begins early next year, has become battleground for the war of 2028.

Already, the then laughed-at Partido Federal has flexed muscles, with new turncoats paraded before the President, mismo, in the palace by the stinking river (with apologies to Ramon S. Ang who has singlehandedly and voluntarily been getting rid of the detritus that has swallowed our “Mutya ng Pasig”).

Turncoats from parties of yore, whether Lakas which the Speaker now heads and from which the former presidenta has been stripped even of honorary leadership, or the PDP which is chaired by no less than the immediate past presidente.

Already, a presidential team for the forthcoming Senate mid-terms is aforming, led by the DILG secretary, Mandaluyong’s Benhur Abalos who swore in as a federalista, and either Cebuano-speaking Leyte’s congressman, Richard Gomez, or his wife, the lovely mayor of Ormoc.

Overtures are being made to those who pine for a “balik-senado” retro-fit, such as sure winner Vicente Sotto III, President Duterte’s senate president, along with non-PDP reelectionists.

All these developments bring me to a favorite advocacy: the overhaul of our bankrupt political system, where dynasties and turncoatism are not only de rigeur but de facto.

See how easy it has been for the vicepresident to get her Mindanao bloc Hugpong ng Pagbabago swallowed by Lakas-NUCD when their “uni-team” was formed in late 2021 in the Revilla estate in Cavite’s highlands?

And how soon she ditched the same Lakas when her mentor was demoted by the Greek chorus in the HoR from senior honorarium to one of many deputies?

That demotion signaled the crack.

Now the decapitation of mentor and kababayan have shown how political alliances in this benighted land unravel too quickly and so soon, because the party does not exist.

Only the “leader” of the temporary alliances matter, because our political parties, as I keep repeating, are mere flags of convenience subsisting on the convenience of those who possess the power and the largesse.

—“—

The 2025 elections, the positioning for which begins early next year, has become battleground for the war of 2028 This development at the Batasan was followed by the vice-president’s statement that, finally, she was giving up on what the President’s budget proposed for her: 500 million in CIF entitlements for the OVP and another 150 million for the DepEd to which she was appointed by her 2022 political partner.

What the President proposed, she now asks the Senate to dispose of, finalmente, instead of discussing any further the merits of the House version which wrote their disapproval to the confidential fund requests.

This, despite earlier exposed attempts by some 10 senators who wanted in executive session to restore the entitlements which became too hot a potato for the country’s second highest leader.

In a previous column we wrote about the chance at moral high ground she missed when, in a Senate budget hearing, she chose not to defend her confidential funds and instead invoked the privilege of the legislature to give or not to give.

Had she given up the entitlements and forthwith requested that these be awarded to projects in the DepEd or the security agencies instead, the controversy could have been nipped in the bud.

Now the disavowal of entitlement is surrender to political reality rather than noblesse oblige, an act of further damage control to what was once impregnable public trust.

Her political enemies, or those who

H

OW important is the redeployment of military personnel at this time?

It’s an urgent one, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasized recently, in light of new geopolitical realities and the territorial and maritime disputes in the West Philippine Sea. “As we move now from focusing on ensuring internal security for the country, we now have to bolster the country’s external defenses. And I exhort the DND and the AFP to maximize and strategically review the deployment of our forces to ensure their strategies remain responsive to the current and future geopolitical realities.”

The Chief Executive and commanderin-chief urged the Navy to strengthen its capabilities by “partnering with forces from like-minded states to uphold our shared commitment to freedom of navigation, peace and stability, and the rule of law.”

The president was speaking at the

67th anniversary rites of the Caviteheadquartered Naval Special Operations Command, the elite unit of the Philippine Navy specializing in counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, close combat, and underwater operations, among others.

—“—

AFP modernization is an urgent concern but clear priorities must be identified While it is the Navy that requires immediate personnel redeployment following the increased tensions in the West Philippine Sea, it makes eminent sense to do the same thing across the other major service commands: Army, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marines.

Such redeployment is inevitable as part of the government’s military modernization program.

The question is whether the nation can

Rice at P20/kilo an ‘aspiration’

To The Point Emil P. Jurado

I AM beginning to like the newly-appointed Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel.

He is honest and practical when he said rice at P20/kilo is only an “aspiration” and an impossibility at this time.

Aware that rice at P20/kilo was a promise of President Marcos Jr. during the campaign of 2022, Laurel could well have said it is “achievable.”

But, as a big businessman and a former fishing tycoon, Laurel was honest when he said it is an impossible probability in response to a query whether or not we could have rice at P20/kilo as promised by BBM. To those who think Filipinos can return to those years when we bought our rice at P20/kilo, they are dreaming, not with the many conflicts happening now – with high inflation, fuel prices increasing, transport fares soaring and demand for higher wages continuing.

My gulay, what was previously $230 per ton of rice today is now $700 in Vietnam where we usually import our rice supply.

In India, the price of our rice imports has likewise gone up.

With the world, including the pHilippines, going through climate change, El Nino and geopolitical tensions, the Department of Agriculture’s new chief knows well enough of the many threats and challenges facing him.

For these reasons BBM held on as DA secretary for over a year.

Laurel is fully aware of the need to modernize agriculture and farming to boost production, the need for silos for storage, more irrigation, affordable fertilizer pric-

afford the huge costs involved in upgrading military bases, acquiring modern armaments, and providing advanced training in warfare, among others.

A bigger budget for the military will necessarily mean resources for combating poverty through economic development and provision of vital social services such as education and health would be reduced.

But that may be the trade-off, given the need to protect the country from external threats.

AFP modernization is an urgent concern.

But clear priorities must be identified.

While external threats should be addressed, there are still internal threats.

The communist insurgency, while whittled down from its peak of an estimated 25,000 at its height in the 1980s to only around 2,000, according to the AFP, remains a security concern in some regions.

Then there’s the remnants of terrorist groups in southern Philippines, such as the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, the military cannot simply ignore nor dismiss outright as insignificant.

es, the need for more farm to market roads to ensure food supply, and, most important of all, food supply at affordable prices.

As a big fishing tycoon, Laurel is also fully aware of the problems and needs of fisherfolk.

And, hopefully, in the future, we don’t have to import fish again.

—“—

Hopefully, in the future, we don’t have to import fish again The advantage of a DA chief with a background like Laurel is that despite all the challenges he has to face, let’s all hope our aspirations to be assured of food supply at affordable prices would be finally achieved.

NAIA bidders now eight Santa Banana, first it was only one group of the big conglomerates that wanted to modernize, rehabilitate, and maintain the NAIA by offering to the government an unsolicited bid of no less than P225 billion proposal costing as much as P170.6 billion.

But, the NEDA, chaired by no less than President Marcos Jr., turned down the unsolicited proposal and would rather have solicited bids in pursuance of what is called public-private partnership.

Now, there are no less than eight participants in the solicited bidding offered

by NEDA, with the two from Seoul, South Korea and Turkey buying bid documents.

The bidders that bought bid documents for the NAIA upgrade are GMR Airports International; San Miguel Holdings Corp.; Manila International Airport Consortium that made an unsolicited proposal; Spark 888 Management; Asian Airport Consortium, Cengiz Insaat Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S. and Incheon Airport Corp.

The eighth participant is the Limak Group of Turkey.

The concession to the winning bidder has been set at P170.6 billion to be decided by the end of the year.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said the award will finally be known by the first quarter of 2024.

Whoever wins, I am glad the main gateway to the Philippines, the archaic and jurassic NAIA, which has become an embarrassment to Filipinos, will at long last be modernized to catch up with the rest of Southeast Asia.

As somebody who has traveled a lot as a journalist, my heart sank whenever I saw those beautiful airports around the world.

We truly need a modernized airport as the main gateway to the county.

Just how long can we realize this dream is now the question, since it will take some time for the winning bidder to complete the modernization, rehabilitation and maintenance of NAIA. With a new gateway, we can have an international airport we Filipinos can truly be proud of.

Israel turns to archaeologists to find victims of Hamas attack NIR OZ, Israel – Moshe Ajami is no stranger to human remains. But until October, the bits of bone and teeth he handled were centuries, if not millennia, old.

Now, he and a team of archaeologists from the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) have turned their skills to finding and identifying the victims of Hamas’s bloody October 7 attack.

Despite using the same techniques, this is grim work compared to their usual digs.

“We needed to go into the burned houses and start doing the archaeological work, which ordinarily is in a pastoral (setting), outdoors, we excavate antiquities, everyone smiling,” said Ajami, a career archaeologist and deputy director of the IAA. In the weeks following the attack, paramedics, police and Zaka, an Israeli organizsation specializing in collecting human remains, combed over the devastation in southern Israel’s towns, cities and kibbutzim.

However, the scope and scale of Hamas’s attack, in which Israeli officials say

around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed, has presented a challenge in identifying the bodies of the dead, many of whom were set alight, and locating those still missing.

“Someone in the army thought it was a good idea to invite the IAA, whose expertise is in finding partial human remains -- skeletons, including those that are burned,” said Ajami.

Archaeologists were first called to Kfar Aza, a kibbutz bordering the Gaza Strip that was attacked by Hamas.

Sifting through soil and ash, they apply decades of experience in “how to identify the smallest fragment of bone in an archaeological excavation” to locate the remains of people killed in the Hamas attacks, Ajami told AFP during an interview at the IAA’s headquarters.

Sifting for teeth More than a month on, approximately 20 people are still listed as missing -neither confirmed dead, nor among the approximately 240 hostages taken by

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Hamas in Gaza, according to Israeli ofThe grim work’s methodology bears ficials. passing similarity to an archaeological Ajami said that forensic archaeology dig. rarely deals “with an ongoing, contempo“We divide the house into several locarary disaster”. tions and start digging,” said Ari Levy, an IAA archaeologist working at Nir Oz. Incinerated cars and the rooms of torched homes are broken down into grids, with the debris sifted for bone fragDespite using the same ments and teeth. Any find sites are then techniques, this is grim meticulously documented. work compared to their “All these actions increase our possibility of identifying the remains and the usual digs findings we are looking for,” said Levy.

Families are asked about metal im“It’s a different mission to try and find plants and prosthetics or jewellery that skeletons of missing persons in that hell, might help identify remains. The emowhile 24/7 there are explosions and shell- tional toll is heavy. ing all around us, and you need to do the “We know who we’re looking for, mission. But we didn’t stop for a moment.” we know their faces in many cases, the On Thursday, archaeologists and fo- names, the families, and the feeling here rensics teams scoured burnt-out homes in is... difficult, because we can’t detach Nir Oz, a kibbutz in southern Israel where emotionally,” Levy said.

Ajami said teeth are especially impora quarter of its 400 residents were killed, tant “because you can extract DNA from wounded, or taken hostage to Gaza.

—“—

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

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

them even when the skeleton is burned.”

Drones, lasers The remnants are documented, catalogued, then sent to an army facility in central Israel where forensics teams try to identify the person.

Of the roughly 60 people whose remains he and his team have found, at least 10 have been identified and laid to rest, Ajami said.

The IAA is also planning to use drones, lasers and other technology in the modern archaeologist’s toolkit to generate highresolution 3D images of the scenes of the attacks.

“I never believed I would have to do something like this, and I don’t think anyone in the world thought that something like this would happen,” Ajami said.

But after 30 years of field archaeology “all of that knowledge that I’ve accumulated is all funnelled into this mission”.

“If we hadn’t come and lent a hand there, they never would have found these people. It’s a big privilege for me.” AFP

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

Associate Editor Managing Editor News Editor

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Honor Blanco Cabie Opinion Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

WORLD

B2

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

WAGE HIKE REJECTED.

Garment workers and activists protest in Dhaka after Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina rejected any further pay hikes for protesting garment workers demanding a nearly tripled wage increase, after violent clashes with police and factories were ransacked.

Before the weekend. AFP

2 S. Koreans among 18 in drug bust execution HANOI, Vietnam—Two South Koreans were among 18 people sentenced to death on drug smuggling and trafficking charges in Vietnam, state media said.

The communist country has some of the toughest drug laws in the world, and is notoriously secretive about its executions.

South Korean ex-police officer Kim Soon-sik, 63, and compatriot Kang Seon-hok, 30, were sentenced to death following a four-day trial in Ho Chin Minh City, state media said late Saturday.

Chinese citizen Li Tian Guan, 58, and alleged Vietnamese ringleader Le Ho Vu, 36, were also handed death sentences.

Fourteen other people were also handed death sentences in connection with the case, following the trial in the Family and Juvenile Court, under Ho Chi Minh City People’s Court.

The group “illegally stored, trafficked and traded more than 216kg of drugs” between May and June 2020, state media news site Cong an Nhan dan reported.

More than 168 kilograms (370 pounds) of “all kinds of drugs” were confiscated, it reported, without specifying what type.

The narcotics were trafficked from Cambodia to Ho Chin Minh City, according to Vu, where some were “consumed domestically” while others were transported to South Korea, Cong an Nhan dan said.

Officers busted the operation on July 19 in Ho Chin Minh City, according to the reported indictment, when they searched a container truck preparing to complete customs clearance for shipment to South Korea. AFP

Moscow targets with missile Kyiv area after 2 months of relative calm YIV, Ukraine – A missile targeted Kyiv without causing casualties but ending nearly two months of relative calm in the Ukrainian capital, while frontline regions fended off waves of drone attacks overnight during the weekend.

K

Ukrainian officials also hailed the anniversary of the recapture of Kherson city, the regional capital liberated a year ago in the last major frontline shift.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised Kherson as a “city of hope” while regretting “revenge” daily

shelling by Russia.

“Just between yesterday evening and this morning, (Russia launched) almost 40 drones and rockets... Ballistic attacks against Kyiv, drones, and rockets against Odesa, the Kharkiv region,” he said.

Ukraine has been bracing for a re-

newed aerial onslaught this winter, after systematic strikes on the country’s energy grid left thousands without heating or electricity in freezing temperatures last winter.

A missile targeted Kyiv “after a long pause of 52 days,” said the head of the Kyiv city military administration Sergiy Popko.

AFP journalists in central Kyiv had heard two strong explosions and saw trails in the sky at dawn.

Air sirens had sounded soon after that.

The air force said it destroyed a missile approaching Kyiv -- either an Iskander

Australia ports firm in tense fight to restore operations

MUSICAL KNELL. Imed, Amal al-Robayaa’s husband plays the ney, an end-blown flute popular in Persian music, amid the ruins of the family home destroyed in an Israeli strike in Rafah in Manila the southern Gaza Strip. Robayaa says Standard the apartment block she lived in was TODAY destroyed by an Israeli bombardment on Oct. 7, the first day of the NOTICE war triggered by Notice is hereby Hamas’s attack on given that the estate southern Israel. of the late NELIE She now sleeps RODRIGUEZ GARCIA with other family was extrajudicially settled members in a UN among heirs as per school in Rafah Doc. No. 57; Page No. but returns to 13; Book No. III; Series her home in the of 2023, before Notary morning and face Public Atty. Katherine the daily struggle Pia Magsajo Cabatbat of to find food and Pasig City. water. AFP (MS-OCT. 30/ NOV. 6 & 13, 2023) (MS-OCT. 30/ NOV. 6 & 13, 2023) Republic of the Philippines National Capital Judicial Region METROPOLITAN TRIAL COURT Mandaluyong City BRANCH 101 metc1mdl101@judiciary.gov.ph / 0961 566 3226 / 7379-0235 PHILIPPINE SAVINGS BANK, Plaintiff/s, -versus-

Civil Case No. M-MND-22-01677-CV For: Recovery of Possession with Application for Preliminary Writ of Replevin with Alternative Prayer for Sum of Money

SPS. GARVIN PER G. PALAD AND LIEZA DIANNE G. PALAD JOHN DOE, Defendant/s x---------------------------------------------------x

SUMMONS TO: SPS. GARVIN PER G. PALAD AND LIEZA DIANNE G. PALAD AND JOHN DOE 123 Chateau Verde Condominium E. Rodriguez Jr Ave., Ugong Pasig City and to GP2 Water Station Del Pilar Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija GREETINGS: You are hereby required to file with this Court your Answer to the Complaint, copy of which is attached, together with the annexes and the Case Information Statement within ten (10) days after the service of this Summons and to serve a copy thereof upon the plaintiff/s within the same period.

The Rules of Summary Procedure shall apply in this case and you are prohibited from filing Motion to Dismiss, for the Bill of Particulars or for Extension of Time to File Pleadings.

Should you fail to file your Answer within the reglementary period, this Court motu proprio or on motion of the plaintiff/s, shall render judgment as may be warranted by the facts alleged in the Complaint and limited to what is prayed for therein, except as to the amount of damages, which this Court may reduced in its discretion.

WITNESS THE HONORABLE EARL WARREN B. CASTILLO, Presiding Judge of this Court, this 6thth day of June, 2022 at Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila, Philippines.

(Sgd.) MARIA NENITA P. SYJUCO-MEDINA Branch Clerk of Court (MStandard - Nov. 6, 13 & 20, 2023)

ballistic missile or an S-400 anti-aircraft missile -- without reporting casualties.

Air defences last downed a missile in Kyiv on September 21. The falling debris wounded seven people, including a child.

Two missiles hit a field between two settlements in the wider Kyiv region, damaging five private homes, said regional military administration chief Ruslan Kravchenko said.

The air force said it downed 19 of the 31 attack drones launched by Moscow between Friday evening and Saturday 03:00 am. AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

US Speaker unveils stopgap bid to nix gov’t shutdown WASHINGTON, DC—The Republican party on Saturday (Suday in Manila) revealed an unconventional temporary plan to fund the US government, with little room to maneuver it through a deeply divided Congress just days ahead of a potential shutdown.

Mike Johnson, the new Speaker of the House of Representatives, said the two-part move was “a necessary bill to place House Republicans in the best position to fight for conservative victories.”

US media reported that unusual play would see some bills needed to keep the government open passed via a short-term bill until January 19, while the rest would be rolled over until February 2.

It is aimed at buying Congress time to pass individual spending bills -- and does not provide funding for Israel, Ukraine and border security, according to the reports.

But with some Republicans already complaining that the plan does not make the funding cuts they seek it was unclear if the party, which has only a narrow

majority in the House, would be able to pass it, much less the Democrat-controlled Senate.

“The bill will stop the absurd holiday-season omnibus tradition of massive, loaded-up spending bills introduced right before the Christmas recess,” Johnson posted on X, formerly

Twitter, without offering details.

“Separating out the CR from the supplemental funding debates places our conference in the best position to fight for fiscal responsibility, oversight over Ukraine aid, and meaningful policy changes at our Southern border,” he continued. AFP

INSTRUMENTAL FLOURISH. A man plays during the wekend a tuba as climate activists chant slogans and hold banners to demand drastic reduction in global plastic production during the Break Free From Plastic Movement March ahead of the third meeting starting Tuesday of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee in Nairobi. AFP

SYDNEY—Ports operator DP World said Sunday it had made “significant strides” towards resuming normal freight trade at major gateways into Australia, which have been crippled for two days by a cyber incident.

Government agencies held crisis talks over the weekend in response to what Home Affairs and Cyber Security Minister Clare O’Neil described as a “serious and ongoing” breach that has disrupted operations at key ports.

“DP World manages almost 40 percent of the goods flowing in and out of our country,” she added in a post on X. The port operator halted internet connectivity at its terminals in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Fremantle on Friday to prevent “any ongoing unauthorized access” to its network, a company spokesperson said.

The disruption has not prevented containers from being taken off vessels but trucks needed to transport them have not been able to drive in or out of the terminals, DP World senior director Blake Tierney said.

In a statement, Tierney said the company had made “significant strides” working with cybersecurity experts and was testing key systems “crucial for the resumption of regular freight movement”.

The company was seeking to restore normal operations “as quickly and safely as possible”, he said, and was investigating “the nature of data access and data theft”.

“DP World Australia is working hard to assess whether any personal information has been impacted,” Tierney added.

Australian Federal Police have said they are investigating the incident.

National Cyber Security Coordinator Darren Goldie said on X on Sunday that the company has told the government any disruption to port operations is “likely to be a number of days, rather than weeks.” AFP

BUSINESS

B3 MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023

extrastory2000@gmail.com

Marubeni eyes more PH investments

By Jenniffer B. Austria

T

OKYO—Japanese conglomerate Marubeni Corp. expressed interest in investing in consumer-related businesses targeting the rising middle-income group in the Philippines.

“We plan to venture into more consumer-related opportunities, enhancing the well-being of the Filipinos in the middle class,” Marubeni general manager for Asia and Oceania at regional planning and coordination department Daigo Odawara said in a presentation with Metro Pacific Investments Corp. officials over the weekend.

Marubeni is evaluating residential development, healthcare and agricul-

ture sectors as areas for investments in the country. It said the Philippines is one of the core markets in Asia for power generation following the deregulation of the industry.

Marubeni also vowed to “continue its business in the Philippines,” including its partnership with Maynilad Water Services Inc., the water utility firm of Metro Pacific.

“Of course, we want to continue our

business in Philippines,” said Marubeni general manager of environmental infrastructure and Maynilad director Kazuaki Shibuya, when asked if the company plans to keep its stake in the water utility firm once the latter holds an initial public offering.

Marubeni been a long-time shareholder of Maynilad despite some regulatory issues.

“We, as Marubeni, will continue to contribute to Maynilad for their improvement and including the IPO, which we expect within a few years’ time. In turn, I hope Maynilad will contribute to Marubeni’s profit,” Shibuya said.

Maynilad plans to conduct its maiden share offering by 2026 as required un-

der its regulatory franchise.

MPIC chief finance officer June Cheryl Cabal-Revilla said both firms recently talked about healthcare and innovation, including in vitro fertility clinic and dialysis center for possible collaboration.

Marubeni has investments in various industries in the Philippines including, power generation and distribution, heavy equipment and automobile sectors, railway, healthcare and finance and leasing aside from Maynilad.

It owns a 50-percent stake in Team Energy Corp., 50 percent in Ingrid Power Holdings Inc., 20 percent in Shin Clark Power Holdings Inc. and 30 percent in San Roque Power Corp.

TAXI AMENITIES.

JoyRide president Sherwin Yu (second from left) and senior vice president for corporate affairs Nolie Eala (right) give Land Transportation Office chief Vigor Mendoza (left) and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chairman Don Artes (third from left) a peek on the Super Taxi’s onboard amenities designed to enhance passenger comfort, convenience and safety at the regular metered taxi fare rate. Commuters can street-hail a Super Taxi or conveniently book a ride through the JoyRide Superapp.

Manila

Standard

TODAY

Fitch affirms PH credit rating at ‘BBB’ with stable outlook Philippines Economic Outlook

By Julito G. Rada GLOBAL credit watcher Fitch Ratings affirmed the Philippines’ “BBB” investmentgrade rating as the country showed sustained macroeconomic fundamentals and resilience amid external headwinds.

The BBB rating is a notch above the minimum investment grade. Fitch also kept the outlook on the rating at “stable.”

An investment-grade rating indicates lower credit risk, thus allowing a country to access funding at lower costs from development partners and international capital markets. A “BBB” rating indicates that expectations of de-

fault risk are currently low and that the country’s current capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate.

Meanwhile, an assignment of a “stable” outlook means Fitch is not likely to change its rating over a one- to two-year period.

The Philippines has maintained a “BBB” credit rating from Fitch since December 2017. The agency revised its outlook on the rating from negative to stable on May 22, 2023.

Fitch said its latest decision recognized the country’s strong medium-term growth prospects, gradually declining debt, macroeconomic stability and sound economic policies.

Jetti Petroleum to spend P1.5b, open 100 outlets

TANDUAY IN CANADA. Tanduay, a Philippine rum brand, teams up with distributor Christopher Stewart Wine & Spirits to make its products available in Canada. Tanduay hosted an industry masterclass and blackbox cocktail competition, along with a launch party serving Filipino cuisine and Tanduay cocktails. The distribution is already established in British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan, with plans to enter Ontario and Quebec.

By Othel V. Campos AGRICULTURE producer and trader Hi-Las Marketing Corp. disclosed plans to export fresh fruits to Belgium and other European markets.

Hi-Las Marketing chief operation officer Ram Amores said while Asia has always been a priority market for the company, they are now looking to expand to other regions.

“Now we’re expanding into the European market, in particular to Belgium, where we are negotiating for a trial shipment of calamansi,” he said.

Hi-Las Marketing said it is in talks with importers in Belgium, with support from the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) and its quarantine division.

The company expressed hope on landing a trade contract soon while prices of calamansi remain competitive.

“To ship 1 ton of calamansi to a market that has not imported calamansi yet, I would consider a major feat in penetrating a market. So hopefully that will be an ongoing concern in the near future, and we hope to penetrate the market while prices are still good,” Amores said.

He said the company also found an opportunity to export semi-processed, pure and frozen calamansi extracts to China during the pandemic, reaching nearly 1.5 million kilogram since 2020.

The surge in global demand for calamansi made up for then losses of other fresh fruit exports.

PRIME MEDIA HOLDINGS, INC. NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING To All Stockholders: Please be advised that the annual meeting of stockholders of PRIME MEDIA HOLDINGS, INC. (the “Corporation”) will be held virtually on 05 December 2023 (Tuesday) at 2:00 p.m. There will be no physical venue for the meeting. The meeting will be held virtually via remote communication at https://conveneagm.com/ph/ prime2023, with the Chairman of the meeting presiding from Makati City.

The agenda of the meeting is as follows: 1.

Call to Order.

2.

Proof of Notice and Certification of Quorum.

3.

Approval of Minutes of Previous Stockholders’ Meeting.

4.

Approval of the Annual Report and the Audited Financial Statements for the year ending December 31, 2022

5.

Approval of the Additional Listing of 150,000,000 shares arising from Private Placements.

6.

For Re-approval (a)

Approval of the Amendment of the Articles of Incorporation (AOI) to reduce the par value of all Series A Preferred Shares from Php1.00 to PhP0.04 per share;

(b)

Approval to convert all Series A Preferred Shares into Common Shares at the conversion rate of 25:1;

(c)

Amendment of the AOI to create a new class of Series C Preferred Shares and to authorize the conversion of the remaining foreignowned common shares to Series C Preferred Shares subsequent to the conversion of all Series A Preferred Shares (There are approximately Three Hundred Forty Thousand Six Hundred Sixty Four (340,664) foreign-owned common shares post conversion based on records as of 30 July 2022;

(d)

Amendment of the AOI to reclassify all Series B Preferred Shares to Common Shares;

(e)

Approval to redeem all Series C Preferred Shares at a redemption price equivalent to its par value of Php 1.00per share and payable in cash;

(f)

Amendment of the AOI to delete all provisions relating to the Preferred Shares (Series A, Series B and Series C) after the conversion of all Series A Shares, reclassification of Series B Shares and the redemption of Series C Preferred Shares;

(g)

Approval to amend the Corporation’s Memorandum of Agreement with Atty. Hermogene H. Real and Ms. Michelle F. Ayangco (as “Golden Peregrine Shareholders”) relating to the issuance in favor of the Golden Peregrine Shareholders of up to One Billion Six Hundred Forty Five Million (1,645,000,000) Common Share, subject to final determination of the Board, third party appraisal, fairness opinions, and other closing conditions to be issued out of the Corporation’s increase in authorized capital stock in consideration for the assignment of shares of stock of Golden Peregrine Holdings, Inc., representing one hundred percent (100%) of its outstanding capital stock;

(h)

Amendment of the Articles of Incorporation to increase the authorized capital stock of up to Seven Billion Pesos (Php 7,000,000,000.00) as may be determined by the Board of Directors;

(i)

Waiver by the minority stockholders of the rights or public offer requirement under the PSE Additional Listing Rule

By Alena Mae S. Flores JETTI Petroleum Inc. said over the weekend it allotted P1.5 billion for capital expenditures to put up an additional 100 retail stations and bring its target to 300 outlets by the first quarter of 2025.

Jetti Petroleum reopened its Macapagal branch on Nov. 9, 2023 after closing it in December 2019 for renovation. It aims to end 2023 with about 200 retail stations.

The Macapagal station, located at President Diosdado Macapagal Ave. corner Coral Way in Pasay City, first opened in 2004 and had been in service for around 15 years before closing for renovations. which cost around P15.5 million.

“Jetti Macapagal Station is the company’s flagship station and is part of a new design concept that shares the same space with the company’s corporate headquarters. The company strategically envisioned this property to be a landmark point of destination that will also embody our slogan Gasolina ng Bayan and continue providing quality fuels to consumers at fair prices,” said Jetti Petroleum president Leo Bellas said.

Jetti Macapagal Station dealer and operator Aaron Punzalan said Gasolina ng Bayan is an affirmation of the values, principles and quality that Jetti represents.

“It is a promise that offers better products and services to our community dedicated to excellence and commitment. We are eager and excited to be part of this revitalized energy to be able to serve our community,” Punzalan said.

Agri firm plans to export fresh fruits to Europe

7.

Ratification of All Acts of the Board of Directors and Management

8.

Election of Board of Directors.

MPIC extends due diligence on Axelum’s finances

9.

Appointment of External Auditor.

10.

Other Matters.

METRO Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) said it extended the due diligence on the planned acquisition of a 35-percent stake in Axelum Resources Corp. after the coconut exporter failed to its meet its financial projections.

MPIC chief finance officer June Cherly Cabal-Revilla said the extended due diligence would involve valuation as Axelum failed to achieve its targets and needed to re-forecast their numbers.

This means that MPIC could still acquire a stake in Axelum but at a lower acquisition price.

Both parties expected to complete the deal before the end of the year subject to the results of the extended due diligence.

11.

Adjournment.

“We did a due diligence on Axelum early last year and early this year. But through the unfolding of results in 2023, they have been very far from their numbers,” Cabal-Revilla said.

She said MPIC would meet with Axelum next week to look at their 2024 financial projections and “dig deeper into their assumptions.”

MPIC, through its agribusiness unit Metro Pacific Agro Ventures Inc. (MPAV), reported in February plans to acquire a 34.76-percent stake in Axelum for P5.32 billion as part of its move to venture into agriculture sector.

Under the sale and purchase agreement, MPAV will acquire 1.19 million common shares at P4.05 apiece, or P4.82 billion.

Jenniffer B. Austria

For purposes of the meeting, stockholders of record as of 07 November 2023 are entitled to receive notice and to vote at the said meeting. Stockholders intending to participate by remote communication should pre-register at https://conveneagm. com/ph/prime2023 on or before 25 November 2023. Please refer to the Procedure for Participation and Voting at the 2023 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting (attached to the Definitive Information Statement) for detailed information on participation by remote communication and voting in absentia (electronic voting) or by proxy.

Pursuant to SEC’s Notice dated March 13, 2023, a copy of the Notice of the meeting, Definitive Information Statement, minutes of the previous meeting of the stockholders, and other documents related to the meeting may be accessed through the Corporation’s website https://www.primemediaholdingsinc.com/ and PSE Edge.

For any question about the conduct of the virtual meeting, you may refer to the Frequently Asked Questions at https://conveneagm.com/ph/prime2023 or email mdc. prim@gmail.com Makati City, 13 November 2023.

DIANE MADELYN C. CHING Corporate Secretary *All proxies which have been previously submitted shall remain valid unless revoked.

(MS-NOV. 13 & 14, 2023)

ENVIRONMENT

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023

extrastory2000@gmail.com RAY S. EÑANO, Editor

& SUSTAINABILIT Y

Gov’t policies at odds with climate goals

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ONTRARY to pledges to cut fossil fuel production, government policies worldwide will add up to a doubling of production in 2030, a new report from the UN Environment Program disclosed last week.

“The 2023 Production Gap report is a startling indictment of runaway climate carelessness,” United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said in his message accompanying the landmark report.

The hike in fuel extraction comes despite 151 national governments having pledged to achieve net-zero emissions.

The latest forecasts suggest that global coal, oil, and gas demand will peak this decade, even without new policies.

When combined, government plans would lead to an increase in global coal production until 2030, while global oil and gas production will continue growing until at least 2050.

“In other words, governments are literally doubling down on fossil fuel production; that spells double trouble for people and planet,” the UN chief said.

The research conducted by Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), Climate Analytics, E3G, International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) and the UNEP urges countries to aim for a near total phase-out of coal production and use by 2040.

The report also calls for at least a 75 percent reduction in oil and gas production by 2050, compared with 2020 levels. All this is of paramount importance since risks and uncertainties of carbon capture and storage, as well as carbon dioxide removal, are significant.

While 17 of the 20 countries featured in the report have pledged to achieve net-zero emissions―and many have launched initiatives to cut emissions from fossil fuel production activities―none have committed to reduce coal, oil, and gas production in line with limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.UNEP News

Fossil fuel production heats up. UNEP

2023 likely the warmest year on record—WMO 2023 is “almost certain to be the warmest year on record” after October smashed temperature highs, while the mercury will keep rising as the warming El Niño effect continues well into next year.

That’s the message from the UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO), which said on last week that for the calendar year to date, the global mean temperature is the highest ever recorded, 1.43 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, and sea ice in the Antarctic remains at record low levels.

The WMO expects the warming El Niño climate pattern to last at least until April 2024, contributing to a further spike in temperatures.

WMO head Petteri Taalas said as El Niño’s impacts

on global temperature typically play out in the year after its development, next year “may be even warmer.”

While El Niño occurs naturally, it takes place in the context of climate change fueled by “increasing concentrations of heat-trapping greenhouse gases from human activities,”says Taalas.

He warned that extreme weather events such as heatwaves, drought, wildfires, heavy rain and floods will be worse in some regions.

“That is why WMO is committed to the Early Warnings For All initiative to save lives and minimize economic losses,” he added.

The previous warmest year on record was 2016 due to a “double whammy” of an exceptionally strong El Niño and climate change.

Diverse biospheres making peace with the natural world SPANNING from city to savannah, and from mountaintops to mangroves, the world’s 748 biosphere reserves were celebrated last week for their diversity and contribution to a green global future.

These sites promote biodiversity conservation with sustainable use and are located across 134 countries, with 21 new reserves added in the past two years alone.

The rapid expansion of this network testifies to the growing awareness that our common future depends upon reconciling lifestyle with greater respect for nature, said Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UN cultural agency, UNESCO, marking the International Day for Biosphere Reserves.

Tackling common challenges “On this day, we celebrate the diversity of these sites: their resilience, the knowledge they generate and the example they set―for Quirimbas instance, through their Biosphere support for the green Reserve, economy, or their use of Mozambique UNESCO renewable energy sources,” she said.

“We celebrate the potential of biosphere reserves to tackle the great challenge of our times: making peace with the natural world. In this respect, biosphere reserves have much to offer.”

Biosphere reserves are not conventional protected areas but are places where over 275 million people live and work.

These sites exist wherever humans interact with nature and range in size from a single, small island community to vast, ecological corridors stretching across continents. They are also home to many indigenous peoples, who have essential understanding and knowledge of the Earth. UN News

El Niño is created by warm waters coming to the surface which are then released as extra heat into the atmosphere.

Since May this year, monthly average sea surface temperature anomalies in the central-eastern equatorial Pacific have warmed significantly, rising from about 0.5 °C above average to around 1.5 °C above average in September, the WMO said.

These estimates are relative to the 1991-2020 baseline period, using the latest version of the Optimum Interpolation Sea Surface Temperature (OISST) dataset.

The most recent expert forecasts suggest a high likelihood of continued warming in the Pacific for at least the next four overlapping three-month seasons, through to February-April 2024.UN News

Hidden costs of agri-food systems estimated at $10t

Photo by FAO News

ROME, Italy―Our current agri-food systems impose huge hidden costs on our health, the environment and society, equivalent to at least $10 trillion a year, according to a groundbreaking analysis by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), covering 154 countries. The costs represent almost 10 percent of global gross domestic product.

According to the 2023 edition of The State of Food and Agriculture (SOFA), the biggest hidden costs (more than 70 percent) are driven by unhealthy diets, high in ultraprocessed foods, fats and sugars, leading to obesity and noncommunicable diseases, and causing labor productivity losses.

Such losses are particularly high in high- and upper-middleincome countries.

One fifth of the total costs are environment-related, from greenhouse gas and nitrogen emissions, land-use change and water use. This is a problem that affects all countries, and the scale is probably underestimated due to data limitations.

Low-income countries are proportionately the hardest hit by hidden costs of agrifood systems, which represent more than a quarter of their GDP, as opposed to less than 12 percent in middleincome countries and less than 8 percent in high-income countries.

In low-income countries, hidden costs associated with poverty and undernourishment are the most significant.

The report makes the case for more regular and detailed analysis by governments and the private sector of the hidden or ‘true’ costs of agri-food systems via true cost accounting, followed by actions to mitigate these harms.

There have been other attempts at measuring the hidden costs of agri-food systems, producing similar estimates as FAO. The new FAO report, however, is the first to disaggregate these costs down to the national level and ensure they are comparable across cost categories and between countries.FAO News

Mexico’s mercury miners seeking a fresh start

Once above ground, ore laced with mercury is shovelled into a furnace. It is heated, roasting until it evaporates, then rises as mercury vapor until it condenses in cooling tubes. UNEP

CONCLUSION Globally, most large mercury mines have closed. However, driven in part by higher gold prices, the use of the element in small-scale gold mining has increased, spurring the construction of new informal mines.

Most recognizable in its liquid form, mercury starts off in the ground as a dark rock called cinnabar, streaked with red veins.

Informal mines In Bucareli, cinnabar is extracted from deep within the mine, collected into sacks, and hoisted to the surface via a winch. Once above ground, the cinnabar is ground and shoveled into a furnace sealed with clay. It is heated, roasting until it evaporates, then rises as mercury vapor until it condenses in cooling tubes.

The liquid mercury collects in a container before being cleaned by a miner wearing a gas mask. They use a sponge, ringing it out as if it were a damp cloth.

Despite precautions, the process is very dangerous. Miners are exposed to toxic fumes on a daily basis through a gaping hole in the furnace roof.

“People get poisoned and do not last long,” says Vigil.

What is left of the burnt cinnabar is cast-off into the environment, polluting the region, otherwise viewed as a model of conservation.

Global producer Mexico ranks as the second-largest global producer of mercury, falling just behind China, with an annual production of approximately 200 tons per year. The Sierra Gorda produces about 101 tons

alone, making it the dominant region in the Americas.

Seldom do the financial rewards reach the miners. The current selling price of mercury from miner to broker is a meager 1,500 Mexican pesos per bottle, approximately US$80. Brokers sell the same product in nearby Querétaro at a 10-fold markup, typically to artisanal gold miners, who use it to separate gold from ore.

Many mercury miners yearn to leave the industry. According to a recent survey, 79 percent said they would prefer an alternate occupation if supported.

“I have discussed this with my wife, and she says that it would be good for us to do another type of work,” says Vigil. “Something like agriculture… something in tourism. That is what I would like to do to move forward with my family.”UNEP News

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SPORTS

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

Ateneo completes women’s semis cast

Ateneo’s Junize Calago is trapped by a doubleteaming FEU defense in the UAAP Season 86 Women’s Basketball Tournament.

Games Wednesday (Mall of Asia Arena) 11 a.m. – UE vs Ateneo (Men) 1 p.m. – UP vs UST (Men) 4 p.m. – DLSU vs FEU (Men) 6 p.m. – NU vs AdU (Men) (Smart Araneta Coliseum) 9 a.m. – UST vs FEU (Women) 11 a.m. – Ateneo vs DLSU (Women) 1 p.m. – UP vs UE (Women) 3 p.m. – NU vs AdU (Women)

Omega’s Hail Mary triple carries Altas past Pirates

By Peter Atencio

M

ARK Omega scored 10 points, including a Hail Mary three-pointer that found its mark in the last 2.3 seconds, sending the University of Perpetual Help Altas to a 81-80 upset of the Lyceum Philippines University Pirates on Sunday at the FilOil-EcoOil Arena in San Juan.

The 23-year-old Omega never thought his attempt from the left corner will go in, but it did after he got a quick pass from a well-guarded Jiel Razon.

The win kept the Altas’ Final Four chances alive in the 99th National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament.

Enoch Valdez fired a team-high 16 points for the Pirates, but he unfortunately bungled what could have been two game-winning charities in

Falcon whip Builders; Elite Spikers score Games Wednesday 11 a.m. – VNS vs Cabstars 1 p.m. – Sta. Elena-NU vs Iloilo 3 p.m. – FEU vs Xentromall 5 p.m. – Letran vs Benilde

DAVIES-ADAMSON prevailed in an exhausting first set duel that took 46 minutes to finish and came out of a tense second set defeat with enough gas left in the tank as it carved out a 39-37, 23-25, 25-17, 25-18 victory over St. Gerrard-Benilde in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference at the Paco Arena in Manila Sunday.

In a match marked by a number of momentum swings and which put accent on endurance, the Soaring Falcons summoned their energy in the last two sets to secure the hard-fought victory, their third straight that kept them in step with the fancied Cignal HD Spikers in Pool C play of the four-division tournament featuring six teams in each group.

“Actually, pinag-ensayuhan naman namin ‘yan. Kung mapapansin mo wala si coach George (Pascua), kung ano yung binilin niya yun naman ang ginawa namin eh. Na yung endurance ng player kailangan namin palakasin,” said Soaring Falcons assistant coach Fritz Santos.

Francis Casas paced Adamson with 17 points on 15 attacks and two blocks, while John Gay added 16 points and 10 excellent receptions and Jude Aguilar also scored 16 points on 13 attacks, two aces and one block.

Pascua is currently in the US to attend a coaching clinic.

Mark Omega

the remaining 26 seconds, handing possession to the Altas.

Marcus Nitura tallied a game-high 18 points and a near double-double with nine boards for the Altas,

who picked up their fourth straight win, gaining them a share of sixth spot with the Emilio Aguinaldo Generals on the same 8-7 win-loss record.

The Pirates, with John Barba shooting 14 points, tasted their first setback after five consecutive victories, to slip to second with their 11-4 card, behind the Mapua Cardinals.

“It was a broken play. Jielo (Razon) was supposed to shoot that. But Mark got a good pass from him. He (Omega) practices and trains for this kind of shot. That’s his forte,” said Altas coach Myke Saguguit.

Meanwhile, Will Gozum unloaded 18 points and eight rebounds for the College of St. Benilde Blazers, which outrebounded and eliminated the San Sebastian College Stags, 78-68.

Robi Nayve and Miguel Oczon both knocked double-doubles of 13 points and 10 rebounds for the Blazers, who boosted their Final Four bid with a 10-5 slate at no. 3 in the standings.

“Very happy they were really boxing out,” said CSB coach Charles Tiu, on Nayve and Oczon on their efforts under the boards.

Two triples from Oczon in the last 7:36 helped push the Blazers to a 12-point edge, 70-58.

ATENEO de Manila University completed the UAAP Season 86 Women’s Basketball Final Four cast after taking down also-ran Far Eastern University, 79-66, Sunday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

The Blue Eagles improved to 8-4 to stay in the running for a twice-to-beat edge in the post-season as joint-second University of the Philippines and University of Santo Tomas are just a game ahead at 9-3.

The win also meant the end of the road for De La Salle University, which holds a 5-7 record, just not enough to chase Ateneo with just two games left. They will face each other on Wednesday.

“That was our initial goal, to make the Final Four so we made the last bus...

Last year, we were just happy to make the Final Four but now, we’re looking forward to more,” said Ateneo head coach LA Mumar.

Ahead by just nine after the third period, Sarah Makanjuola, Aishie Solis, and Junize Calago connived in the Blue Eagles’ strong start in the fourth, highlighted by Kacey Dela Rosa’s coastto-coast and-one move, to establish a commanding 19-point lead with 4:54 left in the game.

Dela Rosa delivered a masterpiece of 27 points on 11-of-14 shooting from the field to go with 12 rebounds and three blocks.

“Siguro huwag lang kami makuntento kung nasaan kami ngayon. Push pa kasi we’re really going talaga sa championship,” said the Season 85 Rookie of the Year.

Makanjuola added 14 points and 16 rebounds, while guards Sandra Villacruz and Junize Calago had complete games for the Blue Eagles. The former tallied 13 points, five assists, and four rebounds, while the latter contributed 11 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds.

Obiena, Gilas lead PSA Athlete of Year candidates THE top performers in Philippine sports in the year that’s about to end will be honored by the Philippine Sportswriters Association as it holds its traditional Awards Night on Jan. 29 at the Diamond Hotel.

Asian Games gold medal winners EJ Obiena, Meggie Ochoa, Annie Ramirez, and Gilas Pilipinas lead the long list of achievers to be recognized by the country’s oldest media organization headed by its president Nelson Beltran, sports editor of the Philippine Star.

All four, together with the Filipinas football team, are vying for the prestigious Athlete of the Year award.

Obiena’s golden record in pole vault, the two-pronged triumph of Ochoa and Ramirez in jiu-jitsu, and Gilas’ epic march to reclaim basketball supremacy in Asia, spearheaded the country’s four golds, two silvers, and 12 bronzes finish (17th overall) in the 19th edition of the Asiad in Hangzhou, China, in the Philip-

pines’ highest placing yet in the quadrennial showcase since finishing 14th in Hiroshima, Japan 29 years ago.

The Filipinas on the other hand, made history following their debut in the FIFA Women’s World Cup in New Zealand, in a campaign which became even more memorable following the team’s stunning 1-0 victory over the host country through the breakthrough goal of Sarina Bolden.

In a year like no other in Philippine sports history, the Asiad and Southeast Asian Games—along with their Para Games counterparts—were both held in a single calendar year following the adjustments in the hosting of the four major meets owing to the pandemic, guaranteeing a star-studded Awards Night two months from now.

The country’s top two sports officials in Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann and Philippine

Ernest John Obiena

Nail-biting finish for Salem; Ramo wins PUERTO PRINCESA—Satar Salem delivered a performance for the ages to capture the men’s overall individual crown, edging Chinese Junyu Cao via the slimmest of margins — 04:22:25- 04:23:13 — even as Leyann Ramo completed Tri SND Barracuda’s domination of individual honors by ruling the women’s side in the IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa here Sunday.

Coming in second to Dutch Eric van der Linden after the swim but almost a minute ahead of Cao, Salem remained in that

spot after the bike as Linden stayed in control. But the 2022 Sun Life 5150 champ in Bohol poured it all out in the run, wearing down Linden while holding off Cao’s stretch-run charge in one of closest results in IRONMAN Philippines staging.

Salem, who toiled for the whole season to prime up and get a crack at this crown, clocked 29:08 in swim., 02:22:31 in bike before winding up with 01:26:40 in run for an overall time of 04:22:25 as he bested last year winner John Alcala’s clocking of 04:32:20 in the grueling 1.9km swim, 90km bike,

and 21.1km run race held under overcast skies.

Cao timed 30:04 in swim, gained on Salem in bike in 02:21:40 but came up short in the closing leg with a 01:26:39 clocking for an overall time of 04:23:13.

“I feel very happy to win this race. I’ve been eyeing on this for the whole year and now it came true. With all the hard training, it finally bore fruit,” said Salem, who strategically reserved his strength during the swim and bike legs then let it all out in the closing stage.

Satar Salem

Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino are expected to grace the formal affair and lead the local sports community in honoring the best and brightest of the year 2023.

Aside from the Athlete of the Year, other awards will also be handed out by sports editors and writers from different broadsheets, tabloids, and online sites who comprised the PSA membership.

The Lifetime Achievement Award, Executive of the Year, President’s Award, National Sports Association (NSA) of the Year, Mr. Basketball, Ms. Volleyball, Ms. Football, and the Tony Siddayao Awards are among the yearly honors being given out.

Major Awards and citations to athletes, officials, and entities who excelled in their respective sports are likewise going to be recognized.

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SPORTS

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023

Ghanaian footballer dies during match TIRANA—Former Ghana striker Raphael Dwamena died on Saturday after suffering a heart attack during an Albanian league match between KF Egnatia and FK Partizani, according to a statement by the Albanian football federation.

“Paramedics on the pitch rushed him to hospital, where he died at the age of 28,” said the federation.

Dwamena earned eight caps for Ghana and was once considered one of the country’s rising stars but encountered several cardiac problems over the course of his career.

In 2017, the attacker was unable to join Brighton due to these health issues, and he eventually moved to Spain.

Four years later, the Ghanaian collapsed during a cup match in Austria between his side Blau-Weiss Linz and Hartberg, but recovered and continued his playing career.

Prior to collapsing, Dwamena had undergone a heart operation in 2020 and had an automatic defibrillator implanted, which was intended to allow him to pursue playing football.

Following this operation, the 28-year-old played in the Danish, Austrian and Swiss leagues before joining Albanian outfit KF Egnatia in January 2023.

Dwamena was the current leading scorer in the Albanian league this season with nine goals.

Swiss club FC Zurich published a black and white photo of Dwamena on their website and paid homage to their former player, saying: “Rest in peace Raphael Dwamena! You’ll always be one of our own!”

In memory of Dwamena, the Albanian federation decided on Saturday to suspend all league matches.

Endi Tufa, an Albanian football analyst, said of Dwamena: “He lived for football”. AFP

Pampanga foils San Juan, nears North Division crown P

AMPANGA got monster figures from Justine Baltazar and an all-around effort from JB Bahio to subdue San Juan, 86-82, on Saturday in Game 1 of their MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) Fifth Season North Division Finals at the people-packed Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center.

JB Bahio posted 14 points, 11 rebounds, 4 blocks, 3 assists and 1 steal for the Giant Lanterns.

Sixers’ Oubre in hospital after being hit by car WASHINGTON—Philadelphia 76ers forward Kelly Oubre Jr. was hospitalized in stable condition Saturday after he was struck by a car on Saturday night, the NBA team confirmed.

“Kelly Oubre Jr. was a pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle tonight in Center City, Philadelphia,” the 76ers said in a statement. “He is currently in stable condition and being treated at a local hospital.”

The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that Oubre was struck while walking near his home and is expected to miss considerable playing time.

But, the newspaper said, his injury does not appear to be life threatening or season-ending.

“We will share more information as it becomes available,” the 76ers said.

Oubre is averaging 16.3 points on 50% shooting this season.

The 27-year-old inked a one-year, $2.89 million deal with the 76ers in September. He was taken with the 15th overall selection by the Atlanta Hawks in the 2015 draft and immediately traded to the Washington Wizards.

Oubre has also played for the Charlotte Hornets, Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors. AFP

The 6’8” Baltazar, the MVP race pacesetter, poured 23 points on top of 20 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals and 1 block, while the 6’5” Bahio posted 14 points, 11 rebounds, 4 blocks, 3 assists and 1 steal as the Giant Lanterns stretched their win streak to 14 at home and moved within a win of clinching their first division crown in the country’s top regional league.

The Giant Lanterns, being coached by Pampanga Gov. Dennis Pineda, will try to cut short their best-ofthree series with the Knights at 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday at the FilOil Flying V Centre in San Juan.

Other Giant Lanterns who shone were Archie Concepcion with 11 points, Encho Serrano with 10 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists, and veteran Arwin Santos with with 8 points, including two clutch triples.

San Juan got 20 points from Marwin Taywan, 14 points from Orlan Wamar, 12 points plus 12 rebounds from Michael Calisaan, 11 points plus 11 rebounds from Adrian Nocum and 8 points plus 9 rebounds from Zachary Huang.

Back-to-back triples by Concepcion and Santos pushed Pampanga ahead, 74-64, but the Knights rallied and threatened at 82-85, following two free throws each from Taywan and Wamar, with 45 seconds to go.

The Knights couldn’t score from there, however, and MJ Garcia sealed the outcome by sinking the back end of his charities with 5.5 ticks left.

Although San Juan buried the first basket, Pampanga responded with a 13-point cluster for what turned out to be the game’s biggest spread.

With Baltazar firing 13 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, Pampanga posted a 43-37 halftime lead.

As Baltazar rested Bahio took charge in the third quarter and Pampanga stayed ahead, 61-58.

Exploiting their taller ceiling, the Giant Lanterns ruled the boards, 54-42, especially on the offensive end (23-14).

Tech Centrale eye encore in PBA 3x3 meet tournament

Kelly Oubre AFP

ROOKIE team MCFASOLVER eyes an encore in the PBA 3x3 as the penultimate leg of the Second Conference comes off the wraps at the Ayala Mall Fairview Terraces on Monday.

The Tech Centrale finally broke through in Season 3 last week when they ended the TNT stranglehold to claim Leg 4 and win its very first title in the three-a-side meet.

The team of coach Anton Altamirano weathered the might of the top seeded Triple Giga with a stirring 20-18 win in the semifinals, before capping its campaign with another thriller, 2120, against Meralco in the finals behind the game-winning free throws of big man Yutien Andrada.

Now the Tech Centrale will gun for a back-to-back as they parade the same roster of Andrada, Louie Vigil, Terrence Tumalip, and Brandon Ramirez for Leg 5.

“Magandang momentum ito going sa Leg 5,” said Tumalip of the team’s title run last week worth P100,000.

Meralco meanwhile, inserted big man Alfred

Batino in its lineup after opting for a small ball last week. Batino will team up with Jeff Manday, Joseph Sedurifa, and Red Cachuela as the Bolts continue to chase a leg crown with two weeks to go before the conference grand finals.

As last week’s winner, MCFASolver emerges as the top seeded team in Pool A together with Cavitex and Blackwater Smooth Razor.

Meralco, San Miguel, Purefoods, and Terrafirma are in Pool B, while in Pool C with Pioneer Elastoseal Katibays are TNT, Barangay Ginebra, and Terrafirma.

At the end of the pool stage, only eight teams will advance in the quarterfinals where they will dispute the total prize money worth P180,000, including the P100,000 purse going to the champion.

Opening hostilities at 10:30 a.m. is the clash between San Miguel and Meralco.

Going into the final two weeks of the six-week leg stops, TNT continues to show the way in the race for the 10-team grand finals along with Cavitex at no. 2 followed by Meralco, Pioneer Elastoseal, and Terrafirma.

Solomon cherishes 2nd straight Super League MVP as NU repeats win ALYSSA Solomon added another feather in her cap to further prove her stature as one of the best players not only for National University but in the entire Philippine volleyball archipelago.

The towering spiker stood tall once again with her second straight Most Valuable Player plum in the Shakey’s Super League Collegiate Pre-Season Championship Season 2 as the Lady Bulldogs completed a back-to-back title sweep.

Solomon, the 6’2” bona fide Lady Bulldog since her high school days, was also hailed as the Best Opposite Spiker for a statement campaign entering their redemption tour in the UAAP. “Nagulat ako nu’ng sinabi na ako ulit yung MVP kasi hindi ko talaga ine-

expect gawa nu’ng hindi ako satisfied sa naging performance ko,” said Solomon, also two-time Palarong Pambansa MVP and the UAAP Best Opposite Spiker.

“Pero syempre, happy pa rin ako na nakuha namin “ ‘yung championship and siguro ito na ‘yung start pa-UAAP para makuha ulit namin ‘yung gusto namin makuha.”

Solomon was steady in the finals against the gritty University of Santo Tomas ignited by a 15-point outing on 11 hits, three aces and a block in NU’s 21-25, 25-16, 25-19, 25-17 Game 1 win.

Joining forces with First Best Outside Hitter Mhicaela Belen in a lethal Lady Bulldogs duo, Solomon then hammered 14 points on 10 attacks, three aces and a block as they fended off the Golden Ti-

gresses anew, 25-17, 15-25, 25-20, 25-20, in the clinching Game 2.

Belen, who fired 17 points in the finale, and Solomon were joined by teammates Camilla Lamina (Best Setter) and Erin May Pangilinan (First Best Middle Blocker) in the honor roll of the SSL Season 2 backed by Mikasa, Eurotel, Victory Liner, Summit Bottle Water, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, R and B Milk Tea, Potato Corner, Rebel Sports, Converge ICT Solutions, Genius Sports and United Auctioneers, Inc. UST’s Angeline Poyos (Second Best Outside Hitter) and Maria Bernadett Pepito (Best Libero) as well as Adamson’s Lorene Toring (Second Best Middle Blocker) were also recognized as part of the SSL Super Team.

The NU Lady Bulldogs celebrate their title win.

Roman Prospero

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SHOWBIZ

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023

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

Illuminating the holiday season with heartwarming

‘Feeling Blessed Ngayong Pasko!’

G

MA Network ushers in the holiday spirit with the official launch of its 2023 Christmas Station ID, “Feeling Blessed Ngayong Pasko!” The message is a simple and beautiful reminder of the season’s true essence: loving one another and being a blessing to each other.

Multihyphenated artist Alden Richards

Empathy, generosity, and selflessness are at the heart of this year’s theme. In the holiday video, beloved Kapuso stars and personalities shine a light on everyday folk – giving themselves to their families and respective communities in ways big and small.

First seen on November 5 in All-Out Sundays, the Christmas video showcases some of the country’s biggest names in entertainment, news, and public affairs led by Dingdong Dantes, Marian Rivera, Alden Richards, Michael V., Heart Evangelista, Bea Alonzo, Barbie Forteza, Dennis Trillo, Mel Tiangco, Vicky Morales, and Jessica Soho. The video begins with them encouraging everyone to appreciate their blessings and pay it forward with love.

The video spotlights everyday individuals, such as delivery rider Elmer Mallanao, whose hard work saw his daughter graduate cum laude. RM Capillas left his BPO career to care for his foster father, Avelino. Pharmacist Arshie Larga gives back by providing free medicine. Bernadeta Zamora’s life was saved by nursing students Angyl Fayth Ababat and Kristianne Joice Noelle Ona. Meanwhile, Michael Kimuell, a dedicated jeepney driver, offers free rides when passengers are short on fare.

The network also paid tribute to veteran broadcaster Mike Enriquez by remembering his generosity. He was the biggest donor of the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Abandoned in Santa Ana, Manila.

As Christmas approaches, GMA Network encourages everyone to find blessedness and gratitude in their lives.

Reminding people of their blessings as vital for collective happiness, GMA encourages Filipinos to embody love and become blessings to others, staying true to the Christmas spirit.

Before launching the 2023 Christmas Station ID, GMA teased it online, inspiring viewers to share love and blessings. Speculation and excitement buzzed about the upcoming song and video.

Netizens were given a musical treat when the lyric video of the Christmas theme song dropped online on November 3.

“Feeling Blessed Ngayong Pasko” was sung by the network’s singing powerhouse comprised of Christian Bautista, Mark Bautista, Rita Daniela, Hannah Precillas, Garrett Bolden, Jeremiah Tiangco, Anthony Rosaldo, Thea Astley, Jessica Villarubin, John Rex, XOXO, Zephanie, Princess Aliyah, and Julie Anne San Jose.

GMA’s Christmas station IDs are an annual tradition for its viewers and the network. It brings together favorite Kapuso personalities to not only send messages of goodwill for the holidays in the country and wherever else the network is available but also to give their thanks to their loyal and growing number of viewers.

Watch GMA Network’s 2023 Christmas station ID #FeelingBlessedNgayongPasko on its official YouTube channel @gmanetwork and Facebook page or visit www. gmanetwork.com.

Joji’s ‘Pandemonium Tour’ heads to Asia after sold-out US shows FOLLOWING the resounding success of Joji’s extensive 22-city arena tour across the United States and captivating performances in Australia and New Zealand, the 31-year-old artist has officially unveiled the much-anticipated Pandemonium 2023 Asia Tour scheduled for November 28 at the Araneta Coliseum.

The highly acclaimed Pandemonium Tour is making its long-awaited debut in the heart of Asia with stops in key cities including Taipei, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, and Singapore, Tickets are on sale exclusively through www.insigniapresents.com or TicketNet outlets nationwide (prices from P3,500 to P7,000, exclusive of ticketing service fees and online charges). Special VIP experience & ticket packages range from P18,030 to P22,850.

Joji’s third album, Smithereens (2022), reached #1 on both the Billboard Top Alternative Albums and #5 on the Billboard 200. The lead single, “Glimpse of Us,” became his highest-charting single upon its debut, reaching #8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and the #9 spot on Mediabase’s Top 40 chart as his first-ever top 40 radio record.

The song has also received an RIAA

platinum certification in the US. H i s second album, Nectar (2020), reached #3 on the US Billboard 200 and #1 on the ARIA Australian Albums.

The certified Gold album saw JOJI collaborate with popular artists such as Diplo, Omar Apollo, Lil Yachty, and Yves Tumor.

Ticketing Link: www. insigniapresents.com or at TicketNet outlets nationwide.

Japanese singer-songwriter Joji is known for hit songs ‘Glimpse of Us’, ‘Sanctuary’, and ‘Die For You’

Kapuso real-life couple Dingdong Dantes (left) and Marian Rivera-Dantes

‘Love Before Sunrise’ lead stars Dennis Trillo (left) and Bea Alonzo

Fashion socialite Heart Evangelista

film, Daniel explained that they had to finish their respective solo projects first.

“Not sure sa latag pa namin. I have three projects—solo movies. Well, Kathryn already had one, for me, I’m doing Kamatayan.

Daniel Padilla (right) recognizes Then, I have two upcoming his girlfriend, Kathryn movies,” revealed Daniel.

Bernardo’s (left) unique impact “But let’s do these solo on the film industry movies first. Let us pause from doing love team projects. We all know that we’ve done a lot. So, that when we come back, of course, our return will be more heartfelt, a real comeback,” he continued.

In terms of leveling up their relationship, Daniel emphasized that they were taking it slow and easy.

“Let’s take it easy. Nice and slow.

Kailangan nating galawin ang ating chess board nang tama. Let’s not rush things. Because we still have a lot to do so, let’s finish this first especially now that we will renew our contract with

By Angelica Villanueva ABS-CBN,” he started.

“Let’s plan it out properly before PHILIPPINE cinema” following the taking it to the next level so we don’t success of A Very Good Girl, which has need to worry about anything. It’s not already earned more than P100 million like we’re going to the next level, then at the tills. we’re being bombarded with so many The 28-year-old star emphasized things. It’s hard to do everything at Kathryn’s unique impact on the film once. So, let’s plan it out properly,” industry, acknowledging her as the explained Daniel. driving force behind the revival.

The actor is currently gearing up The couple has been supporting for his big screen comeback with Nang each other and offering guidance during Mapagod si Kamatayan, together their solo projects. Daniel highlights with Zanjoe Marudo, which will be their collaboration in script discussions directed by Dan Villegas and written by and character development.

National Artist for Film and Broadcast “But of course, I don’t want to Arts Ricky Lee. The movie is said to meddle too much anymore. We kind start its filming in November. of have that. We have boundaries, too.

“It’s a story about life, about self.

Like this, she had a movie, I’m just on When they pitched Kamatayan to me, the side, because it’s her spotlight, it’s among the many pitches I received that all hers. I’m just here to support her day, even when they just started telling from behind,” he said. me the story, I was already excited, When asked how soon we were parang tumaas agad ‘yung BP ko. This going to see a KathNiel comeback is the kind of story that I really want.

Daniel Padilla applauds Kathryn Bernardo for film success

Kapuso Primetime Princess Barbie Forteza

Because when they said Kamatayan, I already knew where the story was going,” reiterated Daniel.

“I like those kinds of stories. You know those social redemption films, epic films, right? The story is very Tom Hanks, like Forrest Gump. It’s an epic film and then I just found out that Sir Ricky wrote it. I said, this film needs to be taken care of, so it took us a while to do it. Kailangan siyang alagaan kasi maselan, sobrang selan nu’ng kwento, Kailangan siyang magawa nang tama.

Kailangan ma-execute nang tama,” he added.

On the other hand, Daniel also expressed his gratitude that he will be able to work with award-winning actor John Arcilla in the film The Guest.

“First of all, of course, I really want to work with Sir John. I can learn a lot from him. And that is also one of the wishes of actors, right, to work with excellent actors because you get to learn a lot of things from them. it’s fun on the scene, you don’t know what will come out, and the story itself is intense. It’s intense, it’s kind of a thriller,” he added.

Aside from the movie lineups that he had, Daniel had been very busy doing a lot of endorsements and recently, he had been tapped by a local gourmet brand to become its first-ever celebrity ambassador.

“I’m very proud and very thankful. I think the stars aligned,” said the multitalented artist.

Daniel also mentioned that RKitchen has always been his go-to food ever since and cited that it became his “comfort food.”

“No joke, we always buy RKitchen products. Kami nila Kathryn dati, ‘yun talaga favorite namin sa umaga at ‘pag nagutom din sa gabi. Tinapa sa umaga, tinapa rin sa gabi,” shared Daniel.

Founded by couple Ryan and Reese Regua, the gourmet brand began with a vision and inspiration to turn the family’s cherished family recipe into a thriving business.

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LIFE

Enjoy the beauty of Boracay’s iconic white sand at Crimson Resort & Spa Boracay

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023

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

Spend an afternoon at Crimson’s relaxing spots by the beach

Get breathtaking views at Crimson Resort & Spa Boracay

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Crimson Boracay and Mactan wins excellence awards

RIMSON Resort & Spa, Boracay and Crimson Resort & Spa, Mactan received awards at the prestigious Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2024.

Crimson Resort & Spa, Boracay won the Best for Families award, and Crimson Resort & Spa, Mactan won the Best for Value Experience Spa award. Both resorts are also the only properties that won in the

Asia Pacific region.

The awarding was held at Fitzroy Kimpton, London on November 6, where Chroma Hospitality’s VP for Sales & Marketing, Carmela Bocanegra, and AVP for Sales, Cecille Kimpo represented both resorts and received the awards. Selected through an online poll by independent critics, as well as former and current guests, the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence are considered among the most democratic and even transparent travel awards as these are chosen by those who have had the opportunity to experience the nominated facilities first-hand.

Crimson Resort & Spa, Boracay has been

honored with the “Best for Families” award, recognizing its exceptional dedication to creating memorable and enjoyable experiences for families, both local and international. This recognition speaks to the family-friendly atmosphere and diverse activities offered at the resort, which have made it a prime destination for families seeking unforgettable vacations.

Crimson Resort & Spa, Mactan is equally thrilled to have been awarded the “Best for Value Experience Spa.” This accolade underscores the resort’s unwavering commitment to providing an outstanding spa experience that offers relaxation, rejuvenation, and an exceptional sense of value to its guests.

These accolades underscore the consistent excellence provided by Crimson Resort & Spa, Boracay, and Crimson Resort & Spa, Mactan to their guests. Showcasing these exceptional properties on the international stage emphasizes how Crimson Resorts offer world-class hospitality, extending outstanding service beyond the borders of the Philippines.

The teams at Crimson Resort & Spa, Boracay, and Crimson Resort & Spa, Mactan have left a significant mark in the realm of luxury hospitality, reflecting their dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment.

Top industry org honors tourism personalities Mercury Rising Bob Zozobrado

NOW in its 42nd year, SKAL InternationalMakati recently unveiled the 31st edition of its Tourism Awards which included some of the leading personalities in the country. At this glitzy gala dinner, it was an opportune time to be with my colleagues and long-time friends in the Industry.

SKAL is a professional organization of tourism leaders around the world, promoting global tourism and friendship. It is the only international group uniting all branches of the travel and tourism industry.

Its members – the industry’s managers and other executives – meet at local, national, regional, and international levels to discuss and pursue Tourism Industry topics of common interest.

The very first SKAL Club was actually put up 91 years ago in Paris by some French Travel Managers who just came from an Educational Tour of Scandinavia.

The idea of international goodwill and friendship grew and, two years later, t h e

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco gives a very inspiring acceptance speech for the award she receives

Association Internationale des SKAL Clubs was formed, with Florimond Volckaert as the first president. He is now revered as the “Father of SKAL.” SKAL is actually a Scandinavian acronym for Sundhet (Health), Karlek (Love), Alder (Long Life) and Lycka (Happiness).

Those were the values upon which the SKAL Club of Makati was formed 42 years ago by its original 15 members. Since then, the Club has been at the forefront of the SKAL movement in the country, having won the bid to host the 12th AISC World Congress in Manila, and the 12th SKAL Asia Pacific Conference two years later.

Thirty-one years ago, the club decided to bestow awards on the country’s leading tourism personalities through its SKAL Tourism Awards, giving due recognition to those who have lived up to SKAL’s goals and objectives, and have invaluably served and contributed to the growth of the Travel and Tourism Industry.

This has been the Club’s highlight event through the years.

This year’s Tourism Awardees are: First Lady Liza Marcos as Patroness of Philippine Arts and Culture; Manuel Pangilinan for Sports Tourism; Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco for Government Support; Elizabeth Sy for MICE Tourism; b of Southwind Travel and Tours for Tour Operator Category; Cesare Ignatius Moreno, Mayor of Aloguinsan, Cebu, for EcoTourism Gem; and Julius Neri II, CEO and GM of Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority for Tourism Infrastructure.

Other establishments were also awarded: All Nippon Airways for Airline Category; Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar for Cultural Tourism Category; Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation

SKAL International-Makati Chairman and DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista delivers his welcome remarks

for Resort Category; Grand Hyatt Manila for Hotel Category, CNN Phillippines for Media Category; and UP Asian Institute of Tourism for Education Category.

A very important and meaningful Posthumous Award was given to the late Robert (Bobby) Joseph Jr. who has been the moving force behind SKAL InternationalMakati the past many years. He, in fact, thought of staging these Tourism Awards to pay tribute to the Industry’s trailblazers. The award was accepted by his family who came in full force, in grateful appreciation of the honor bestowed on their esteemed patriarch.

YOUR MONDAY CHUCKLE: To solve his traffic woes, a man changed his car horn to gunshot sounds.

People and vehicles get out of his way much faster now.

SKAL International-Makati’s current roster of officers includes DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista, as Chairman; Heritage Hotel GM Farid Schoucair, as President; Afro-Asian World of Events’ President Angel Bognot, as Vice-President; CEI Cargo President Deedee Ledonio, as Secretary General; Philippine Retirement Authority GM and CEO Cynthia Carrion, as Treasurer; Philippine Airlines President Stanley Ng, as Director; Bison Management Corporation President Menchie Orobia, as Director; and SMX Convention Center VP and GM Mike Albaña, as Director.

The officers and members are now looking forward to next year’s batch of awardees as they busy themselves with preparations for this year’s SKAL International World Congress in Malaga, Spain. Enhorabuena y Buena Suerte, SKAL! For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@ gmail.com

SKAL President and Heritage Hotel GM Farid Schoucair announces the many significant achievements of the club

SKAL Vice President Angel Bognot acknowledges the presence of the many Tourism personalities in the hall

Metrobank World Mastercard aims to deliver unforgettable dining, shopping, and travel experiences for Pinoy world travelers

Exclusive benefits and privileges for globetrotters METROBANK World Mastercard cardholders are in for a world of benefits, offering privileged travel and lifestyle experiences tailored to their needs. Ramon del Rosario, Head of Consumer Business Sector at Metrobank, expressed the card’s commitment to delivering unforgettable dining, shopping, and travel experiences globally.

Introduced at a special event at ITO KISH Studio and Café on November 9, the Metrobank World Mastercard enhances its features, offering cardholders premium benefits. Some highlights include earning more miles for every peso spent, complimentary airport lounge access, competitive forex fees, and discounts at over 4,000 partner stores and restaurants worldwide.

Cardholders can now earn one mile for every P17 spent on foreign currency transactions abroad and enjoy a 20 percent discount on AXA full-trip Smart Traveller Insurance. Until April 30, 2024, a low foreign exchange conversion fee of 1.85 percent is applicable, providing savings on international purchases.

The Metrobank World Mastercard elevates the VIP experience with two complimentary airport lounge passes per year via DragonPass and a 24-hour VIP customer service hotline. The card’s perks extend to discounts at prestigious stores and dining establishments in the US, the UK, Europe, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Philippines.

Experience a world of privileges and rewards – apply for the Metrobank World Mastercard at apply.metrobank.com. ph/creditcard and elevate your travel, shopping, and dining experiences globally.

To apply for the Metrobank World Mastercard visit apply. metrobank.com.ph/creditcard.