Manila Standard - 2023 November 16 - Thursday

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MAHARLIKA EYES 4 INVESTING AREAS

‘FOREIGNERS PAYING P500K FOR PASSPORTS’

NEWS / A2

NEWS / A4

UN EXEC WANTS ELCAC ABOLISHED

STATE WORKERS GET P69-B BONUSES

NEWS / A4

VOL. XXXVII • NO. 274 • 2 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023

NEWS / A4

Rody subpoenaed over threat Ex-president must face QC prosecutor next month for Castro case

By Rio N. Araja and Rey Requejo

HE Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office has summoned former President Rodrigo Duterte for an investigation on the grave threat complaint filed by ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro.

T

Rep. France Castro

Ex-President Rodrigo Duterte

Duterte was directed to show up on Dec. 4 and Dec. 11 for a preliminary investigation.

The subpoena – dated Oct. 27 but re-

leased to the media on Wednesday – was part of an initial investigation into the criminal complaint filed by the House Deputy Minority Leader.

Castro alleged Duterte committed the crime of grave threat under the Cybercrime Prevention Act during an Oct. 10 interview with local broadcaster SMNI. Duterte gave on-air advice to his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, about how she could use intelligence and confidential funds allocated to her office and the education department, which she also heads.

Next page

Nullify 2 orders for confidential funds, SC asked

By Rey E. Requejo A TAXPAYERS’ suit has been filed before the Supreme Court seeking to nullify the order and circular that covers the disbursement of confidential and intelligence funds (CIFs).

In a 45-page petition, the petitioners led by retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, Howard Calleja, JP Calleja, and former senator Richard Gordon asked the SC to declare null and void Executive Order No. 2 and Joint Circular No. 2015-01 for “being averse” to the 1987 Constitution.

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PH wooing investors ahead of APEC meet

De Lima sees last drug charge being dismissed

By Julito G. Rada, Charles Dantes, and Rey E. Requejo PRESIDENT Marcos and his economic team will highlight the country’s strong economy during a briefing for potential investors in San Francisco, California

FORMER Senator Leila De Lima has expressed optimism that she would be eventually cleared of drug cases following a trial judge’s grant of her petition for bail on Monday.

Meanwhile, former Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre said he respected the judge’s decision to grant bail for De Lima but raised doubts about its timing.

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WARM RECEPTION. President Marcos signs autographs for eager ‘kababayan’ who met him in San Francisco, California on Wednesday, while Speaker Martin Romualdez (inset) waves to the same crowd with Cabinet Secretaries Benjamin Diokno, Rafael Lotilla, and Christina Garcia-Frasco (from left) seated behind him. Ver Noveno

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Austin, ASEAN Piston to stage transport strike defense chiefs next week over PUV program talk in Jakarta

By Rio N. Araja

SORRY, SENATOR. MMDA Special Operations Unit head Col. Bong Nebrija (right)

apologizes to Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. (left) in front of MMDA Chairman Romano Artes and the media for a misunderstanding at an EDSA traffic stop at the Senate building on Wednesday. Angie de Silva

MMDA exec suspended for saying senator’s car used EDSA bus lane Task Force Special Operations chief Edison Nebrija Jr. after he announced to the media that the convoy of Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. was involved in a THE Metropolitan Manila Develop- traffic violation on the EDSA bus lane. ment Authority suspended its National Next page

By Joel Zurbano, Macon Ramos-Araneta and Maricel Cruz

SOUTHEAST Asian defense ministers gathered in Indonesia Wednesday for two days of talks that will include meetings with regional counterparts and the Pentagon chief, as tensions mount in the Asia-Pacific and conflicts rage in the Middle East and Ukraine.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will meet with defense chiefs of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Wednesday before wider talks a day later over a region where Washington and Beijing are battling for influence.

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro is also at the meeting.

Thursday’s expanded talks will include representatives from the United States, China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia, and Russia.

The meetings in Jakarta are expected to be dominated by issues ranging from the Myanmar crisis to Next page

A MAJOR group of jeepney drivers and operators on Wednesday said it would stage a nationwide strike from Nov. 20 to 23 to protest the government’s modernization program for public utility vehicles (PUVs).

Piston (Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide), which claims a membership of 120,000, had refused to join a similar protest in October organized by Manibela, another transport alliance, but said they would go on strike next week after the Next page

BIG GUNS. The Armed Forces of the Philippines tests its new artillery weapons and other combined arms firepower in a live-fire exercise on Wednesday during the AFP Joint Exercise Dagat-Langit-Lupa (AJEX DAGITPA) in Burgos, Ilocos Norte. AFP Photo

NEWS

A2

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

MIC eyes investments in 4 areas

By Julito G. Rada

T

HE Maharlika Investment Corp. (MIC) will look at investment opportunities in the areas of tourism infrastructure, agro-urbanism, energy and information and communications technology (ICT), the sovereign fund’s newly appointed president and chief executive Rafael Consing Jr. said Wednesday.

tive, putting it in very simple terms, is to get the tourist from where he’s originating to his destination at the soonest possible time. And when we talk about that, we’re talking about physical connectivity,” Consing said.

He said MIC’s approach would be to look at the NEDA Board-approved projects, which include 197 flagship infrastructure projects.

Of this number, 122 are in physical connectivity that include airports, bridges, roads, and marine connectivity, with 38 falling under the PublicPrivate Partnership scheme.

“The fastest way is for us to be able to choose one of those projects and see how we can immediately enable and be

able to roll out the first part of our investment,” Consing said.

Out of those 38 PPP projects, there are about four airports, he noted.

“Obviously, Bulacan [airport] is already being funded by the SMC Group.

You have already NAIA [that is] currently going through a PPP, its own process, and you’ve got two additional or two remaining airports that are there,” he said.

Road and bridge projects could also be considered and the MIC investment committee would be the one doing studies and see which of those would deliver the most immediate impact, and the one that’s immediately needed, Consing said.

IN BRIEF Marcos names new Appeals Court chief PRESIDENT Marcos has appointed Associate Justice Mariflor P. Punzalan Castillo as presiding justice of the Court of Appeals, the country’s second-highest court.

Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo received the appointment of Presiding Justice Castillo dated Nov. 14, 2023, from the Office of the President.

Castillo took over the post from then Presiding Justice Remedios A. Salazar Fernando, who retired last Sept. 2.

The new CA presiding justice started her legal career as an investigator at the former Tanodbayan, now Office of the Ombudsman (OMB), in 1979.

Castillo served the OMB until 1993 when she was appointed Quezon City metropolitan trial court judge and later as judge of the regional trial court until 2004. She was appointed to the CA as an associate justice on March 9, 2004.

As CA presiding justice, she will exercise administrative supervision and control of the appellate court not only in Manila, the main office but also the stations in Cebu for the Visayas and in Cagayan de Oro for Mindanao. Rey E. Requejo

“What we’re going to be doing is identify four pillars in terms of our investments for the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF),” Consing said in a briefing.

In terms of the actual rollout of the investments, Consing said it was going to be a function of “what the opportuni-

ties are out there, and how soon these opportunities come.”

“So, for example, in the case of tourism infrastructure… what we want to be able to do is to enhance and to reintroduce basically the tourism proposition of the Philippines. And the main objec-

Nullify...

From A1

Israeli troops raid Gaza’s largest hospital

These orders provide the guidelines for the disbursement and liquidation of confidential funds.

Impleaded as respondents were Vice President Sara Duterte, the Office of the Executive Secretary, the Senate of the Philippines, the House of Representatives, the Department of Education, the Department of Budget and Management, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Governance Commission for GOCCs, and the Commission on Audit (COA).

The petitioners also asked the High Court to prohibit the respondents or any person, entity, member, officer, employee, or representative from enforcing the EO and joint circular.

They also pleaded with the Court to issue a temporary restraining order, writ of preliminary injunction, and/or mandamus to prevent any irreparable injury to petitioners due to the infringement of their rights.

The petitioners also prodded the SC to direct Duterte, the Senate, House, and state auditors to give the petitioners the report of expenses and liquidation of the Office of the Vice President’s (OVP) 2022 confidential funds.

In their petition, the lawyers led

by Carpio argued that the release and disbursement of confidential funds violates Section 28, Article II of the 1987 Constitution.

The section provides that subject to reasonable conditions prescribed by law, the State adopts and implements a policy of full disclosure, as well as Section 7, Article III, which states that the “the right of the people to information on matters of public concern shall be recognized.”

“Joint Circular No. 2015-01 and EO are unconstitutional because they are not laws passed by Congress. They have no force of law. Specifically, the joint circular is simply a guideline,” the petitioners said.

Because of this, the petitioners urged Congress to enact a law on confidential funds.

ISRAELI forces raided Gaza’s largest hospital Wednesday, targeting what they say is a Hamas command center in tunnels beneath thousands of patients and civilians seeking refuge from intense combat.

The operation at Gaza City’s AlShifa hospital brings to a head weeks of growing concern for the people trapped inside in grim conditions and marks a key objective for Israel’s campaign to destroy Hamas.

Dozens of Israeli soldiers, some

wearing face masks and shooting in the air, ordered young men to surrender, a journalist in contact with AFP reported, as the army said it conducted a “precise and targeted” operation at the facility.

Youssef Abu Rish, an official from the Hamas-run health ministry who was in the hospital, told AFP he could see tanks inside the complex.

The Israeli army described it as “a precise and targeted operation against Hamas in a specified area” of the fa-

cility. The Palestinian militants have repeatedly denied concealing a base at the hospital.

The Red Cross and World Health Organization urged protection of civilians inside the facility, echoing warnings from key Israel ally Washington.

Israel said the raid was being executed based on “an operational necessity” but the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority denounced it as a “flagrant violation of international law”.” AFP

Rody...

From A1

DOJ... That’s the normal process – whatever complaint, you are required to answer.

Even if you have committed no wrongdoing, you will get sued. That’s part of the territory we are standing on,” he added.

In her complaint, Castro said Duterte’s threats were “factually baseless and clearly malicious,” but she could not dismiss them as “figurative, joking, or otherwise benign.”

The subpoena ordered Duterte and Castro to appear at the prosecutor’s office on Dec. 4 and Dec. 11 to present witnesses and supporting documents.

The prosecutor will then decide if there is enough evidence to charge Duterte in court.

Duterte enjoyed immunity from suit when he was president, but now that he is an ordinary citizen he can be charged

for alleged crimes committed.

His former chief presidential legal counsel, Salvador Panelo, said Duterte had been “ignoring” Castro’s criminal complaint.

“He can waive his right to preliminary investigation if he wants,” Panelo said, adding that Castro was only after publicity.

He said Duterte’s comments about Castro were not a death threat, but “just an expression of desire.”

Duterte often threatened to kill people, including drug dealers and rights activists, when he was president from 2016 to 2022.

He also frequently labeled critics as communist sympathizers – a practice known as “red-tagging,” which can result in the arrest, detention or even death of the person targeted. With AFP

case or an acquittal would be a logical conclusion,” she said.

De Lima also cited the views of former presidential spokesman Harry Roque that the remaining case against here would be eventually dismissed.

“There is only one remaining case, and he (Roque) knows the outcome of this case now,” she added.

A vocal critic of former President Rodrigo Duterte during his term, De Lima was released from the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center in Camp Crame, Quezon City on Monday night after posting bail.

De Lima also revealed she would pursue a case against Aguirre, Duterte’s Justice Secretary, being one of her tormentors.

“It is under discussion with my team.

When exactly we would do that, what ex-

actly is the case to be filed against him, that is still being studied,” she said.

“For now, the focus of our team is to have this remaining case dismissed. Either on demurrer and/or later if the demurrer is not granted, is to work on my acquittals up to the presentation of the defense evidence,” added the human rights lawyer.

Prosecution witnesses have recanted their testimonies against the former senator, claiming they were merely coerced into implicating her in the illegal drug trade at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City when she was still Justice Secretary during the watch of the late President Benigno Aquino III. According to De Lima, some other witnesses were also considering retracting their testimonies.

equipment from the United States.

The Philippine Economic Briefing (BEF) in San Francisco will be the administration’s fourth in the United States, following successful runs in Europe, Singapore, Japan, Canada, and the Middle East.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman will present the government’s priority expenditures for next year in line with the Philippine Development Plan 20232028, as well as key budget reforms.

Pangandaman will join Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Eli Remolona Jr., and National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan in a panel discussion titled “The Philippine Economic Development: Charting the Course to the Future,” to be moderated by DBM Undersecretary Margaux V. Salcedo and Michael Paulus, managing director in Asia of Citigroup.

MMDA chairman Romando Artes said the preventive suspension will ensure a fair investigation.

Revilla denied he was the passenger of the vehicle that was apprehended.

Nebrija posted a public apology on his social media account: “As the commander of the NTFSOU, I made decisions based on the information given me by my team mates and yes like anybody else I also make mistakes...

The buck ends with me and for whatever disgrace my actions has brought the good Senator Bong Revilla and his family, I extend my personal apologies and on behalf of my whole team. To the Filipino people, I fell short I’m sorry.”

Nebrija and Revilla eventually faced each other at the Senate on Wednesday, with Artes mediating the discussion.

Revilla accepted Nebrija’s apology but asked for a recall of the MMDA budget for 2024 that was approved in the plenary on Monday.

members met Wednesday to discuss how the impending transport strike would affect the riding public.

He said he would coordinate with other government agencies and local government units on ways to provide free rides to the public should the strike push through.

The Dec. 31 franchise deadline is the first component of the government’s modernization plan that would eventually phase out traditional jeepneys.

LTFRB spokesperson Celine Pialago said 120,023 units, including public utility buses, have yet to be modernized, “As of today (Wednesday), there are a total of 129,568 consolidated units

for PUJs, UV Express, Mini Bus, and PUBs representing 65.03 percent of overall authorized units,” she said.

The remaining 34.97 percent consists of 69,665 individual franchise holders, she added.

The PUV modernization program started in 2017, aiming to replace jeepneys with vehicles that have at least a Euro 4-compliant engine to reduce pollution, but drivers and operators complained about the high cost of new units.

Transport officials said, however, that traditional jeepneys can still operate beyond the set deadline, provided they join transport cooperatives to prevent

“on-street competition” among drivers and operators.

The government originally set a June 30, 2023 deadline, but this was extended to the end of the year after the announcement of a transport strike in March.

The week-long strike was cut short when representatives of Piston and Manibela met with Palace officials.

President Marcos, meanwhile, has said he doesn’t want any driver to lose his job over the PUV modernization program.

The transport strike in October failed to disrupt public transportation largely because other groups, including Piston, had refused to join it.

Austin,...

From A1 the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza to Beijing’s growing aggression in the South China Sea. Muslim-majority Indonesia’s president Joko Widodo this week called on US President Joe Biden to do more to end “atrocities” in Gaza and help bring about a ceasefire.

His defense minister Prabowo Subianto opened talks on Wednesday echoing that call, saying he was “deeply saddened” by events in the Palestinian enclave where Israel has launched a relentless assault to destroy Hamas in response to its attacks on Israel on Oct. 7 that killed 1,200, mostly civilians.

Subianto also said current ASEAN chair Jakarta is seeking a resolution to the Myanmar crisis, which has rolled on as the bloc’s diplomatic efforts have faltered.

“Indonesia encourages other ASEAN member states to support Myanmar to find a peaceful and durable solution to the current situation,” he told delegates.

The junta’s leaders have been banned from the bloc’s high-level meetings since failing to implement an agreed five-point peace plan following a 2021 coup.

“Your first target with your intelligence fund is you, you France. Tell her, ‘It is you communists who I want to kill,’” Duterte said in the interview that was reshared thousands of times on Facebook. It was later deleted from SMNI’s Facebook page.

The subpoena was signed by Senior Assistant City Prosecutor Ulric Badiola.

The Department of Justice, for its part, said it will not interfere in the preliminary investigation.

“This is prosecutorial independence,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said.

“The case does not pass through the

De Lima...

From A1 De Lima on Wednesday indicated in a TV interview that the magistrate, Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court Branch 206 Judge Gener Gito, probably believed the prosecution failed to build a strong case against her.

“If you look at it... he (judge) did come up with the conclusion that the evidence of guilt is not strong. He found those testimony... also lacking credibility and that conspiracy was not proven,” the senator said on ANC news.

“If anyone has read the bail decision of the honorable judge... he would have the same thinking... He would have that natural conclusion that a dismissal of a

PH...

From A1 on Nov. 15 (Nov. 16 in Manila), ahead of the 30th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Summit.

While in San Francisco, President Marcos is also expected to witness the signing of a so-called 123 Agreement that will pave the way for the Philippines to obtain nuclear material, technology, and

Piston...

From A1 government rejected their request to remove the Dec. 31 deadline to form themselves into or join transport cooperatives so they could keep operating.

“This is a massacre on our livelihood through the seizure of our franchise to give way to the monopoly of large corporations in transportation,” the group said in a statement issued in Filipino.

Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III and his board

NAIA ready to handle holiday traffic volume TRANSPORTATION Secretary Jaime Bautista said Wednesday the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is ready to handle at least 138,000 passengers daily during the holidays.

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Immigration is set to put in place the modernization of equipment at the international airports after the Senate approved the agency’s P2.67 billion budget request.

Bautista said NAIA’s recent preparations for “Undas” (the All Saints’ Day holiday) and recent Barangay Elections were a barometer for the coming Christmas season, with an expected increase of another 8,000 passengers per day.

Also, Commissioner Norman Tansingco said modernization of the BI’s system aims to make the application process easier and encourage foreigners to obtain proper documents and to catch up with neighboring countries.

Majority of the budget was intended for the modernization of the BI’s operations, particularly at the airports, he added. Joel E. Zurbano and Vito Barcelo

MMDA...

From A1

NEWS

A3 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

IN BRIEF

PETITION VS. CIF.

Lawyer Howard Calleja (second from left) joins former Commission on Audit chief Heidi Mendoza (left), civil society advocates for good governance, religious groups, and concerned citizens in filing a case at the Supreme Court on Wednesday. They raised the constitutionality, accountability, and public disclosures of confidential and intelligence funds (CIFs) in a petition also signed by former SC Justice Antonio Carpio.

Danny Pata

‘Remove lease fees for digital equipment’ CITIZENWATCH Philippines coconvenor Christopher “Kit” Belmonte is calling on Congress to pass legislation banning real estate developers from imposing leases on digital infrastructure.

The lawyer and former lawmaker for Quezon City said internet access is a fundamental service that must be made available to all Filipinos.

“Individuals, communities, and societies can no longer function without going online,” Belmonte said. “Connectivity and digitalinfrastructure are basic parts of living and working spaces, as are water and power.”

Two bills at the House of Representatives are seeking to amend the National Building Code of the Philippines, which was issued in 1977.

Taguig opens listup for Embo businesses THE Taguig City government has started accepting permit and license applications from business establishments situated in the villages formerly under the jurisdiction of Makati City.

“The City of Taguig, through the Business Permits and Licensing Office, is now accepting registration of Embo (Enlisted Men’s Barrio) businesses and payments of 2023 business taxes,” the local government stated Wednesday in its advisory, which aims to provide lower tax rates and business-friendly policies for residents.

To register a business, the local government advised applicants to present an application form, current Makati business permit, latest official receipt, 2x2 formal picture of the owner, location sketch, and 3R picture of the establishment’s exterior.

Joel Zurbano

House panel backs raps vs. cops in big drug haul

By Maricel V. Cruz

T

HE House of Representatives committee on dangerous drugs supports the government’s move to file criminal and administrative charges against several police officers with the Ombudsman for the alleged cover-up of the P6.7-billion “shabu” drug bust in October 2022.

The committee, chaired by Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, on Wednesday recommended filing the charges against 12 policecommissioned officers (PCOs) and 38 police non-commissioned officers (PNCOs).

“Some law enforcement officers are engaged in the reprehensible act of illegal

drug recycling... This unlawful conduct involves policeofficers seizing dangerous drugs during operations, only to divert them back into the illegal market for personal gain,” the panel’s Committee Report 495 stated.

Earlier, Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. said criminal cases have been

filed against the 50 police officers involved in what he described as “probably the biggest drug haul in the history of the Philippines.”

Abalos earlier said the Philippine National Police (PNP) and theNapolcom filed the cases for violation of Republic Act 3019 or the AntiGraft and Corrupt Practices Act; RA 9165 or the Dangerous Drugs Act as amended; Revised Penal Code, in particular, Article 171 on Falsification, Article 183 on Perjury, Article 184 on False Testimony and Article 217 for Malversation of Public Property; and Presidential Decree No. 1829 or Obstruction of Justice were filed against the police officers before the Office of the Ombudsman on June 9.

Mexico ex-mayor cited in contempt, held for 30 days

By Maricel V. Cruz THE House committee on dangerous drugs on Wednesday found former Mayor Teddy Tumang of Mexico, Pampanga in contempt of the panel and voted to detain him at the Batasan complex in Quezon City for 30 days.

“We are citing former Mayor Tumang for contempt for violating Section 7 of our rules governing inquiries in aid of legislation, subject to motions for reconsideration,” Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, committee chairman, told the former local official.

Section 7 prohibits the disclosure of information taken up in executive session of the House or any of its committees.

The penalty imposed on the former mayor is the second punitive action taken in as many days in connection with two separate inquiries involving Mexico officials and over P6 billion worth of shabu seized by the authorities from a warehouse in Barangay San Jose Malino in the town last September.

The Barbers committee is investigating the shabu seizure.

On Monday, another House panel, the committee on public accounts, cited a former aide of Tumang, Roy Gomez, for contempt and ordered him confined in the House for 30 days for evading and sometimes refusing answers from committee members.

This second panel, chaired by Abang Lingkod Rep. Joseph Stephen Paduano, is looking into more than P40 million worth of allegedly anomalous transactions entered into by the former Mexico mayor.

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OPINION

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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

EDITORIAL

COA clears House of Representatives

So I See

Lito Banayo

The hollowing THE deputy secretary-general of the party for Mindanao, it’s original base and stronghold, said it all: “I believe, ang maiiwan na lang sa PDP, may mga apat o limang members na lang… (in) Congress.”

When the 19th Congress that elected Speaker Martin Romualdez in July of 2022 began, PDP-Laban had as many as 65 members. Now it is down to some 15 members in the HoR. And Rep. Johnny Pimentel of Surigao del Sur says there may only be 4 to 5 left in the following weeks or months.

Sic transit gloria mundi. Thus passes away all worldly glory.

As it was in Rome yesterday, more so in the Philippines today.

And surely so in a country where loyalty is not to any party, not to any institution, but only to self-interest.

It happened even after Ferdinand Marcos Sr. was dethroned.

—“—

Such is the state of Philippine politics – bankrupt of ideals, resistant to change other than the cosmetic After Cory Aquino who adopted UNIDO during the snap elections started distancing herself from the party her vice-president, Salvador Laurel, laboriously built, everybody and his mother took their oath with the nascent LDP of Speaker Ramon Mitra Jr. Six years later, Mitra lost the elections to Fidel V. Ramos, who broke away from the LDP to form Lakas-NUCD, beginning with just around seven members from the legislature.

In short shrift, everybody deserted LDP and moved to Lakas.

Erap who succeeded Ramos, thought his Laban ng Makabayang Masang Pilipino, a coalition of the LDP, NPC and his PMP could stop the waves of disenchantment with his midnight proclivities and his sponsorship of “larong-lupa” (jueteng) from engulfing his popularity.

It did not.

Then the same gaggle of politicians went back to Lakas, and for nine years it was the ruling party but for the breakaway in 2005 due to ‘Hello Garci’ of the Aquino-led Liberal Party which coalesced with it in ousting Erap.

It was at this time that other big businessmen started forming their own parties, the Villar-purchased NP, the Razonbrokered National Unity Party (NUP), following the example of Danding Cojuangco’s NPC. All of them, of course, were in alliance with Gloria, as they were with Erap before, as they would be with whoever sat

in Malacanang.

When PNoy took over, Lakas was deserted once more, and the Liberal Party gave oath to the same politicos and their dynastic successors who left it after Jovito Salonga lost in 1992.

When someone from behind adopted the PDP from the Pimentels of Misamis Oriental as his standard in 2016 after much substitution drama, he had but a swarm of Davao-based politicos and a small pack of non-politicians from his fraternity and “fools” like this writer (my veteran politician-friends sneered at my ‘quixotic’ support of the Davao City mayor earlier) behind his presidential quest.

But triumph he did, and his speakerdesignate, Pantaleon Alvarez Jr., started recruiting once more, the same shifty politicians into the PDP umbrella.

Then Ferdinand Marcos Jr. won in 2022 and succeeded the father of then Davao City Mayor Inday Sara without the then president’s blessings.

And after he named Martin Romualdez his chosen leader of the HoR, the shifting started, little by little.

Now, 17 months later, the hollowing of PDP is almost complete.

Various reasons have been given by those who deserted the PDP and transferred to either the Lakas-CMD or the now remembered Partido Federal, which for a year after BBM’s victory remained the silent victim of palace power plays.

Its secretary general, appointed Cabinet secretary by then President Rodrigo Duterte resigned from the party to save the political fortunes of his wife, whom he succeeded in getting elected congresswoman of Laguna while Duterte was yet in power.

Before that, the chair emeritus of the biggest political group, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, former president at that, was demoted from her largely honorary perch to a lesser status, and recently, demolished to mere member of the HoR. Take note: from KBL to UNIDO, to LDP, to Lakas, to LaMMP, to Lakas once more, to LP, to PDP, and now, a new “Uni-Team” of Lakas and Partido Federal.

That new ‘Uni-team’ will be the administration’s mixed colors for the 2025 mid-term elections.

And expect it to be joined in open coalition by the usual fence-sitters: NP, NPC and N UP. And in ‘secret’ alliance with whoever are left in the LP and the Makabayan bloc, both of which share a common dislike, nay, hatred, of Duterte whose supporters, in turn, look at them as political lepers.

Then, after 2025, the waiting game begins for who will be the likely winner come 2028.

Such is the state of Philippine politics – bankrupt of ideals, resistant to change other than the cosmetic, perpetually under the stranglehold of the elites.

Everyman

Melandrew T. Velasco

Take a bow, Chief PNP Acorda FORMER President Fidel V. Ramos once paraphrased Leo Oracion, the first Filipino to conquer Mt. Everest in May 2006, saying: “Going up to the top is optional but coming back down is mandatory because you cannot stay at the top forever.”

Unless extended by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. will step down as Chief of the 224,000-strong Philippine National Police on Dec. 3, 2023.

I interviewed him at his office in Camp Crame last Nov. 3 where we discussed several topics from our book project on the late former PNP Chief Gen. Leandro Mendoza whom he served as aide de camp for five years to national security issues and his journey to the top rung of the national police.

Our friendship goes back to 1993 when we worked together under the tutelage of then Pangasinan provincial director Col. Amado Espino Jr. Then a lieutenant, Jun and I teamed up for special projects like the Lingayen Gulf War, a crusade to save the endangered gulf; Pista’y Dayat; 1995 Palarong Pambansa; the Sual Coal Power Plant

and the San Roque Multi-Purpose Dam. Thirty years after, we teamed up with Gen. Reynaldo Velasco.

When he took over the helm on April 4, Gen. Acorda anchored his leadership on 5-focused agenda for a better and more effective police force: 1) Personnel Morale and Welfare; 2) Community Engagement; 3) Integrity Enhancement; 4) ICT Development; and, 5) Honest Law Enforcement Operations.

His crowning achievements as PNP Chief include the drop by 8.24 of index crime volume based on the Crime Information Reporting and Analysis System.

From Jan. 1 to Oct. 31, 2023, there were only 34,908 recorded cases and dropped to 2,877 cases or 8.24 percent compared to the same period last year.

The PNP also concentrated on “8 focus crimes” like murder, homicide, physical injury, robbery, theft, rape, car and motor theft.

That resulted in a drop by 8.18 percent, from 34,702 cases in 2022 to only 31,864 in 2023.

He said: “These promising outcomes stand as a clear testament to the tireless

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FTER trolls flooded social media with hypocritical demands for accountability, the Commission on Audit reports the House of Representatives has had a commendable track record from 2017 to 2022.

“For CY 2022 and prior years, no Notice of Suspension, Notice of Disallowance, and Notice of Charge was issued,” according to the independent audit commission, noting Congress’ financial transactions were in order, and there were no instances of irregularities or discrepancies that would warrant said notices.

The digital trolls were led by the former President himself, repeatedly challenging Congress to open its books for a public audit.

A thorough COA audit of Congress is what the former President has been demanding in his TV program and social media channels since he resurrected himself to defend his daughter’s insistence to get hundreds of millions of pesos in con-

fidential and intelligence funds.

Incidentally, it’s quite obvious that no media organization, except for the former president’s crony broadcasting firm, has been airing his barely lucid rants.

—“—

For the first three quarters of 2023, state auditors also gave the HREP impressive passing marks Remember that COA is an independent constitutional body with the primary function to examine, audit, and settle all accounts and expenditures of the funds and properties of the Philippine government.

Just as an auditing company is to private corporations, COA serves as a crucial check against graft and corruption, excesses and abuses.

In its report, COA in fact cited the House of Representatives for its timely remittance in 2021 and 2022 of employees’ contributions to the GSIS, Pag-Ibig Fund, and PhilHeath.

Duty Calls

Traffic fines

Florencio Fianza

OVER the years, traffic fines have increased way above inflation.

I just did not realize how high the fines were until I learned of two recent apprehensions.

One was a driver whose van was impounded and fined P200,000 for driving out of line which for that individual was basically a death sentence.

Where would he get the P200,000 considering the van he was using to earn a living and paying on installment basis had been impounded?

Another case was about an elderly driver who was earning a living as a family driver.

The problem was, he was holding a non-professional driver’s license and was caught driving a six-wheeler which was clearly a traffic violation.

His driver’s license was confiscated and fined P3,000.

He was further suspended for one year, rendering him unable to drive to earn a living for his family.

We can all understand the need for resolute enforcement so that erring drivers will not commit the same offense repeatedly.

But must it be so brutal that it will drive traffic offenders to destitution?

Given the difficulty of looking for jobs let alone maintaining them, people in government should try to strike a balance in imposing penalties.

In the Metro area, the favorite go-to traffic solution is to increase traffic fines.

The most recent is the increased fines for drivers entering the exclusive bus carousel.

As we can see, even with the stiffer fines, there are still a lot of violators, majority of whom are motor cycle riders.

—“—

The PNP has emerged as one of the top five most trusted among 25 government agencies and coordinated efforts of the PNP contrary to popular narratives.

“The statistics undeniably demonstrate a noteworthy decline in the overall crime rate during the 10 months of 2023.

“This success reflects the PNP’s commitment to ‘Serbisyong Nagkakaisa’ and our unwavering vow to decisively suppress criminal activities, ensuring the safety and security of our communities.”

With barely seven months in office, he made the PNP emerge as one of the top five most trusted among 25 government agencies based on the Tugon ng Masa survey commissioned by Octa Research.

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

“For CY 2022, aside from the proper maintenance of existing structures for senior citizens and persons with disabilities, the HREP has undertaken improvements to make them more comfortable,” COA also said.

Furthermore, the COA report dispels allegations about the misuse of Extraordinary and Miscellaneous Expenses.

The agency clarified the EME is part of the HREP’s regular budget and undergoes full auditing.

The EME for 2022 amounted to P4.98 billion, lower than the P5.67 billion in 2020. These funds cover a spectrum of activities, such as meetings and educational events.

For the first three quarters of 2023, state auditors also gave the HREP impressive passing marks, with no derogatory findings on its financial reports.

These COA clearances should serve as a lesson to the former President who is known to have built his presidential campaign and administration on absolute untruths, incomplete sentences and brazen threats: You can fool all of the people some of the time and some of the people all of the time.

But you can never fool all of the people all of the time.

Those in convoys with escorts, however, appear to be getting off the hook which is bad optics. The MMDA must remember that the bus carousel is not a completely segregated road.

There are plenty of open spaces where vehicles can easily enter, use the carousel and then get out.

The open spaces is a great temptation, one reason why we still see a lot of violations.

—“—

RA 4136 is already 59 years old and is hopelessly out of date The bus carousel is also not entirely covered by CCTVs, making it difficult to monitor.

Increased fines could also bring unwanted problems.

One is corruption.

When all the attention shifts to another traffic problem, bigger fines will be a bonanza for corrupt enforcement personnel who we know are still out there.

Traffic authorities should combine enforcement with engineering and education. Unfortunately, this is seldom done.

It is not a popular solution to current traffic managers in the Metro area.

This is understandable considering the need for instant solutions to pressing traffic problems. But putting all the burden on the motorists is not fair beTheir ratings were: CHEd, 80 percent; DepEd, 79 percent; PNP, 76 percent; DOH, 75 percent; and DSWD, 73 percent.

Pleased at having achieved what every police officer has aspired to, Gen. Acorda laments that as Chief PNP he should have been given more leeway in pushing for the well-deserved promotions of fellow officers.

He has written both houses of Congress that the gridlock affecting the promotions involving the National Police Commission be resolved by legislative and executive means to recognize all police officers who are ripe for promotion based on merit, seniority and performance.

What stood out in our almost two-hour meeting was Gen. Jun Acorda’s undying sense of patriotism whose love for country shines brightly as the sun, moon and stars.

He gifted me with a patriotic medallion emblazoned with Makabansa, Maka Diyos at Maka Tao. Along with the medallion is a call for

cause the causes of many traffic problems is not their fault.

For example, congestion is due to the limited road network.

This is where engineering and education can come in.

Metro traffic managers however, continue to rely heavily on enforcement even if they know that when it comes to traffic, a combination of the three Es is better for long term solutions.

Like in other laws, traffic fines and other penalties should be commensurate to the offense. Besides, traffic fines as a standalone solution will not do the trick.

It is always advisable to combine it with the other two for better results.

One thing that was also never done that should now be undertaken is the review and amendment of RA 4136 in its entirety.

The law is already 59 years old and is hopelessly out of date.

Although there have been minor amendments done, these are not enough.

There are now new technologies out there like flying and driverless cars being tested in other countries.

What happens if a flying or driverless vehicle is brought to the country?

The fines in RA 4136 are also no longer realistic and have now been replaced by many administrative orders whose amounts are often too high.

With a new law, there will be a nationwide guide for every municipality, city or metro jurisdiction on the right amount of fines so that ordinary citizens will not be unduly burdened with enormous and punishing traffic fines.

This is an effort that the DOTr and the LTO should both spearhead. patriotism printed on a small sheet of paper titled Makabansa…Pilipino.

I wish he could serve longer and extended as PNP chief especially with the national security concerns and current geopolitics.

At the testimonial parade at the Philippine Military Academy where he was awarded the “Outstanding PMA Alumnus,” Gen. Acorda said: “I can say the PMA is a bastion of idealism...One is reminded to always follow the right path because the cadet corps is always a magnet for idealism.

“The magic is never lost in embracing love for country, serving the nation with professionalism and idealism will always be there.”

We salute the PNP Chief!

(The author is president and executive director of the Million Trees Foundation Inc., a non-profit group advocating tree planting and watershed protection. He is also a book writer and publisher of biographical and coffee table books.)

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

Associate Editor Managing Editor News Editor

Emil P. Jurado

Honor Blanco Cabie Opinion Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

NEWS

A5 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

LOPSIDED TUG OF WAR.

State workers start receiving year-end bonus, cash gift—DBM

Kids play an uneven match of tug of war, three to one, amid a heavy downpour along E. Rodriguez Avenue in Quezon City.

Revoli Cortez

By Julito Rada

UN human rights rapporteur seeks ELCAC abolition A UNITED Nations special rapporteur called on the government to abolish the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) for red-tagging community and indigenous people’s leaders.

“I met with a number of CSOs (civil society organizations) and IPOs (indigenous peoples’ organizations) who told me horrific stories ofhow they’ve been treated. It is clear it is operating beyond its original mandate and is red tagging people from the community and the IPs,” said UN human rights and climate change expert Ian Fry. “There is no reasonable response that ELCAC can say to the fact that I’ve heard stories of torture, disappearance and EJK of people. This is totally unacceptable. It seems the government has lost control of this military organization and is moving beyond what is considered reasonable,” Fry added.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Wednesday asserted thegovernment’s independence in solving its problems as he rejected Fry’s call.

“They should not meddle in the internal mechanism of the Philippines which is effective in achieving its goals,” Remulla said.

National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo Año, who is concurrent vice chairman of the NTF-ELCAC, said the agency takes strong exception to Fry’s push to disband the task force.

“Fry, in his capacity as a UNSR on a country visit, has been given thefreedom to move and inquire on matters related to his mandate. But apparently, due to reasons beyond us, he has not exercised this to its full potential. In the interest of fairness and justice, he should have raised his concerns with us to ensure that he has a full appreciation of the body’s mandate, operations, and overall directions. Sadly, even if he had issues on the NTF-ELCAC that are relevant to his report, he did not find time to do so,” Año said in a statement. Rey Requejo

Foreigners paying P500k for passports—Hontiveros

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

F

OREIGNERS are reportedly buying Philippine passports for P500,000, Senator Risa Hontiveros said on Wednesday.

“Philippine passports are not for sale. No foreign national should treat this official document as a mere commodity. This is an offense to our Filipino identity, our history, and our national dignity. Weare currently looking into information that foreign nationals allegedly pay P500,000 per passport,” she said.

“I trust that the Ombudsman will investigate this exhaustively and get to the bottom of the issue,” she added.

Senator Jinggoy Estrada, for his part, said the illegal acquisition ofPhilippine passports using fraudulent birth certificates is “not merely a violation of our immigration laws but a potential threat to our national security.”

“This is a serious breach that not only undermines the integrity ofour immigration system but poses significant risks to our nation’s security. Any attempt to compromise the authenticity of these documents poses a direct threat to our identity as a nation,” Estrada said.

“The issue at hand requires a multifaceted approach, involving collaboration between law enforcement agencies, immigration authorities, and intelligence services. We must enhance our systemsfor document verification and border control to prevent further instances of passport fraud and identity misrepresentation,” he added.

During the Senate committee on women hearing on POGO-related crimes, Hontiveros said they discovered that government-issued IDs were easily given to Chinese POGO workers, who then use the documents to get a Philippine passport.

It was also revealed during a Senate hearing there were advertisementsfor birth certificates, voters’ IDs, passports, and other documents for sale.

Hontiveros said this was a serious national security concern.

“Now that China is far from dialing down on her aggression in the West Philippine Sea, she may be taking advantage

of our porous borders, our weakened institutions, and our own corrupt officials to advance her interests,” she said.

“We should not allow foreigners claiming ownership of our territory tojust enter the country. No foreign national should treat this officialdocument as a mere commodity. This is an offense to our Filipino identity, our history, and our national dignity,” she added.

The Office of the Ombudsman earlier said it will investigate on its own the issuance of Philippine passports to foreign nationals.

Two divisions of the National Bureau of Investigation are also conducting their own probe.

“The investigation of our Anti-Fraud Division and the International Operations Division is ongoing,” NBI Director Medardo de Lemos said.

Last week, the Senate recalled the plenary approval of the proposed budget of the Philippine Statistics Authority amid reports that authentic birth certificates were issued to foreign nationals, which enabled them to get Philippine passports.

The IDs included those from the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Philippine Health Insurance Corp.

THE government yesterday started releasing P69.4 billion for the yearend bonus and cash gift of state workers.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said this was a welldeserved symbol of appreciation for government workers, whom she described as “heroes who give their all for the country.”

“This is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure that our government workers are given these rightful tokens for all their sacrifices that are greatly contributing to the reactivation of our economy,” she said.

The DBM has allotted P45.3 billion for the year-end bonus of the civilian personnel and P15.2 billion for the military or uniformed personnel.

Meanwhile, P8.9 billion was allocated for the cash gift of over 1.7 million civilian as well as military and uniformed personnel.

The year-end bonus is equivalent to one month of basic pay as of October 31, while the cash gift amount is fixed at P5,000 for qualified government personnel.

Public servants who have rendered at least a total of four months of service from Jan. 1 to Oct. 31 of the current year and remained in government service as of Oct. 31 of the same year are eligible to receive the bonus and cash gift.

Pangandaman reminded government workers to use their bonuses wisely, and to only spend it for their needs and for things that “truly matter.”

House resolution seeks inquiry into banks’ alleged gambling links

By Maricel V. Cruz and Darwin Amojelar A GROUP of lawmakers filed a resolution seeking an inquiry into alleged links of certain banks to illegal gambling operations.

House Resolution (HR) 1464 aimed to look into the operations of Maya Digital Savings Bank which also offers mobile wallet services amidreports that the platform carries links to various gambling apps that openly allows subscribers to participate in gambling activities.

Maya Bank and Maya Philippines, however, clarified that they are not engaged in any gambling operations.

“Maya Philippines facilitates digital payments for numerous merchants, including a few entities accredited by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). Our services are focused on providing secure payments from all sources like credit cards and wallet cash-in facilities for eligible customers.”

“We maintain strict compliance with the guidelines set by the Bangko Sentral

ng Pilipinas, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and PAGCOR to ensure user safety, security, and responsible use of financial service technologies.”

Majority Leader Erwin Tulfo and fellow ACT-CIS Party-list Reps. EdvicYap and Jocelyn Tulfo as well as Benguet Rep. Eric Yap and Quezon City Rep. Ralph Tulfo authored the House resolution.

In pushing for a congressional inquiry, Majority Leader Tulfo underscored the need for Congress to look into the “legal-

ity and ethics of offering such services,” as well as for the BSP to define its regulations pertaining to operations of the Maya platform’s links to gambling apps.

“This investigation will shed light on whether these gamblingactivities are conducted in compliance with our laws and regulations, and whether they truly serve the best interests of our citizens,” he said.

Tulfo said some of the games featured were baccarat, poker, bingo, fruit games, and similar forms of gaming where subscribers can place bets through Maya’s mobile wallet services.

Stratbase conference to gather top leaders in gov’t, business CABINET secretaries, ambassadors, and top business leaders are expected to attend the Pilipinas Conference 2023, an annual event organized by the think tank Stratbase ADR Institute.

Stratbase president Dindo Manhit said the meeting aims to spark ideas and generate discussions on the pressing issues in Philippine society.

“In its eighth year, Pilipinas Conference 2023 strives to continue the push towards multi-sectoral collaboration and effective policies to address the most urgent social, political, and economic challenges that shape the Philippines and the Indo-Pacific,” Manhit said in a statement.

The convention will be composed of three panels.

The first panel will discuss the economic outlook and strategies for 2024.

Expected to join the group are Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual, and Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista.

“We gathered the country’s top economic managers to present their outlook on the Philippine economic landscape.

Strategies to strengthen the country’s ties with its most beneficial trading and investment partners, improve its manufacturing sector, promote more investmentled growth, and solidify its role in the global supply chain will also be explored,” Manhit said.

STRIKE CALL. Members of the transport group PISTON call for a three-day nationwide strike starting Monday, Nov. 20, to protest the government’s insistence on the year-end deadline for the application for franchise consolidation under the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (See story on A1). Manny Palmero

Massive fish kill hits waters off Cavite City—PCG

By Vince Lopez

SECURITY TALKS. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (third from left) joins his Asian counterparts (from left) Chansamone Chanyalath (Laos), Mohamad Hasan (Malaysia), Prabowo Subianto Indonesia), and Ng Eng Hen (Singapore) during the 17th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Defense Ministers’ Meeting in Jakarta on Nov. 15, 2023 (See story on A1). AFP

THE Philippine Coast Guard is monitoring a massive fish kill phenomenon in the waters off Barangay 61, Cavite City on Nov. 13.

Over 200 sacks of dead fish have been collected from the Cañacao Bayin Cavite City since Monday, prompting families to evacuate due tofoul odor, the PCG said.

The Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Cavite said most of the dead fish were initially identified as “tilapia.”

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources conducted area inspection and water sampling to determine the cause of the fish kill.

The PCG Marine Environmental Protection personnel also took water and dead fish samples for laboratory analysis.

Local villagers were surprised when dead and decaying fish coming from the Cañacao Bay started floating behind their houses, according to the GMA’s Unang Balita.

Jerry Rubia, a resident, said that 11 of them worked together to collect the dead

fish, which were already mixed with garbage and mud.

Around 280 sacks of dead fish were piled up.

“I went down and collected dead fish. I immediately collected foursacks. I looked at the other side and saw plenty more. Even two trucks cannot collect all the fish,” Rubia said.

More than 50 families also decided to transfer to evacuation centers because of the bad smell coming from the dead fish, saying they could not sleep or eat.

WORLD

A6

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Biden: China has ‘real problems’ ahead of summit S

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Manila Manila

Standard Standard TODAY TODAY

AN FRANCISCO—US President Joe Biden said Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila) China has “real problems,” speaking at a fundraiser in San Francisco on the eve of an eagerly awaited meeting in the US city between himself and his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping.

The leaders of the world’s two largest economies will huddle on the sidelines of the APEC summit in California for their first encounter in a year as trade tensions, sanctions and the question of Taiwan have fueled quarrels between Washington and Beijing.

Biden, who like Xi arrived in San Francisco on Tuesday, has characterized Manila the meeting as a chance to right ties that Manila Standard Standard TODAY in recent years. have floundered TODAY “President Xi is another example of how reestablishing American leader-

ship in the world is taking hold. They’ve got real problems,” he told a fundraising event late Tuesday, hours ahead of his talks with the Chinese leader.

He did not elaborate.

Earlier, the president told reporters at the White House before heading to San Francisco that the US is “not trying to decouple from China. What we’re trying to do is change the relationship for the better.”

Asked what he hoped to achieve at the meeting, he said he wanted “to get back on a normal course of correspondLEGAL NOTICE ing; being able to pick up the LEGAL NOTICE Notice is hereby given for the settlement of the Estate phone and talk to one another if Notice is hereby D. given for the settlement who of thedied Estate of CORAZON CRUZ (“Decedent”) on there’s a crisis; being able to make of D. CRUZ (“Decedent”) who died and on 07 CORAZON December 2022 without any will or testament 07 December 2022 without any will or and without any debts.

The Decedent lefttestament the following sure our (militaries) still have conwithout any debts. The Decedent left the following properties: tact with one another.” properties: (1) Bank Deposit in Bank of Philippine Islands; (2) Bank (1) Bank Deposit in BankVeterans of Philippine Islands; (2) Bank Deposit in Philippine Bank; and (3) 2005 But Biden also warned that the Deposit in Philippine Veterans Bank; and (3) 2005 Mitsubishi Galant Van. The foregoing properties are Mitsubishi Van. The foregoing are subject of Galant an Extra-Judicial Settlementproperties of the Estate United States was wary of insubject of by an the Extra-Judicial Settlement of the Estate executed exclusive heirs and apostilled in the vesting in China due to Beijing’s executed by theofexclusive andDawnelle apostilled Dugan, in the United States Americaheirs by (a) United States of America by (a) Dawnelle Dugan, Notary Public for and in the State of California, on 11 business practices.

Notary Public for andNo. in 58463 the State California, 11 April 2023 Certified andof(b) Farzana on Barjor “I’m not going to continue April 2023 Certified No. 58463 and (b) Farzana Barjor Maneksha, Notary Public for and in the Commonwealth Maneksha, Public2023 for and in the Commonwealth of Virginia, Notary on 30 March Certified No. 2992982-1. to sustain the support for posiof Virginia, on 30 March 2023 Certified No. 2992982-1. tions where if we want to invest in China, we have to turn over all our trade seSEC MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 21 crets,” he SEC MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 21 SERIES OF 2023 said. AFP SERIES OF 2023 (MS-NOV. 16/23/30, 2023)

(MS-NOV. 16/23/30, 2023)

SUBJECT : AMENDMENTS TO SEC MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR SUBJECT : AMENDMENTS CIRCULAR NO.2, SERIES TO OF SEC 2014 MEMORANDUM - GUIDELINES ON ASSET NO.2, SERIES OF 2014 - GUIDELINES ON ASSET VALUATIONS VALUATIONS WHEREAS, Item II. ACCREDITATION (Paragraph 3), Item III. OPERATIONAL WHEREAS, Item II. ACCREDITATION (Paragraph 3), Item III.REQUIREMENTS OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENT (Paragraph 3) and Item IV. REPORTING REQUIREMENT (Paragraph 3) and Circular Item IV.No.2, REPORTING REQUIREMENTS (Paragraph 1) of SEC Memorandum Series of 2014 provides that: (Paragraph 1) of SEC Memorandum Circular No.2, Series of 2014 provides that: “II. ACCREDITATION “II. ACCREDITATION 3. The criteria for accreditation shall be the following: 3. The criteria for accreditation shall be the following: i. The applicant shall be registered with the Commission either as i. The applicant shall be registered with the Commission either as a corporation or general professional partnership organized by aindividuals corporation or general professional partnership engaged in appraisal or valuation workorganized and shall by be individuals engaged in pursuant appraisal to or valuation work and shall be 100% Filipino-owned the 9th Foreign Investment 100% Filipino-owned pursuant to the 9th Foreign Investment Negative List.

Negative List.

III. OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS III. OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS All appraisal companies or PSOs accredited by the Commission shall All appraisal companies or PSOs accredited by the Commission shall comply comply with the following operational requirements: with the following operational requirements: 3. An accredited appraisal company or PSO shall maintain the following 3. An accredited appraisal company or PSO shall maintain the following prescribed qualifications: prescribed qualifications: i. It is 100% Filipino-owned pursuant to the 9th Foreign Investment i. ItNegative is 100% Filipino-owned the 9th Foreign by Investment List and it is pursuant managedto and operated licensed Negative and it is managed and operated by licensed appraisersList or valuation specialists; appraisers or valuation specialists; IV. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS IV. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS 1. All accredited appraisal companies or PSOs shall submit within one 1. All accredited appraisal orits PSOs withinreport one hundred five (105) dayscompanies from end of fiscalshall year,submit an annual hundred five Form (105) AC-AR days from of itsby fiscal year, an annual Officer report under SEC dulyend signed its Chief Executive under SEC Form AC-AR duly signed by its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Finance Officer, or Managing Partner, as the case may be. “ and Chief Finance Officer, or Managing Partner, as the case may be. “ WHEREAS, based on Annex A of the 12th Foreign Investment Negative List WHEREAS, based Annex of the 12th List (issued on June 27,on 2022), noAforeigners areForeign allowedInvestment to practiceNegative profession in (issued on June which 27, 2022), no foreigners are allowed to practice profession in the Philippines, includes among others, Real Estate Services, unless their the Philippines, which Filipinos includes to among others, Real Services, their home country allows be admitted to theEstate practice of said unless profession. home country allows Filipinos to be admitted to the practice of said profession.

WHEREAS, based on precedent cases, most of the accredited appraisal WHEREAS, based on precedent most extension of the accredited appraisal companies and PSOs have been cases, requesting on the submission companies and PSOs been requesting extension on audited the submission of Annual Report (AR) have from the April 15 deadline since the financial of Annual Report April deadline financial statements, which(AR) somefrom datathe in the AR15are derivedsince from, the are audited not yet available, statements, which data in theexternal AR are auditors derived from, arebeen not yet available, either the audit of some their respective has not completed or either the audit of external auditors has not been the submission of their said respective financial statements to the Commission is completed not yet due.or the submission of said financial statements to the Commission is not yet due.

IN VIEW OF THE FOREGOING, in order to update the foreign ownership IN VIEW OFand THE FOREGOING, in AR order to said update the the foreign ownership requirement submission date of the of the Circular, Commission en requirement and submission date of the9, AR2023, of theresolved said Circular, the Commission banc in its Meeting held on November to approve the revisionen to banc its Meeting held on November 9, 2023, resolved to approve revision on to SEC in Memorandum Circular No. 2, Series of 2014 by amending thethe provisions SEC Memorandum Circular No. 2, Paragraph Series of 2014 by amending the provisions on Paragraph 3 of Items II and III and 1 of Item IV, as follows: Paragraph 3 of Items II and III and Paragraph 1 of Item IV, as follows: “II. ACCREDITATION “II. ACCREDITATION 3. The criteria for accreditation shall be the following: 3. The criteria for accreditation shall be the following: i. The applicant shall be registered with the Commission either as i. The applicant shall be registered with the Commission either as a corporation or general professional partnership organized by aindividuals corporation or general professional partnership engaged in appraisal or valuation workorganized and shall by be individuals engaged in appraisalrequirement or valuationunder work the and prevailing shall be compliant with the ownership compliant with the ownership requirement under the prevailing Foreign Investment Negative List.

Foreign Investment Negative List.

III. OPERA TlONAL REQUIREMENTS III. OPERA TlONAL REQUIREMENTS All appraisal companies or PSOs accredited by the Commission shall All appraisal companies or PSOs accredited by the Commission shall comply comply with the following operational requirements: with the following operational requirements: 3. An accredited appraisal company or PSO shall maintain the following 3. An accredited appraisal company or PSO shall maintain the following prescribed qualifications: prescribed qualifications: i. It is compliant with the ownership requirement under the prevailing i. ItForeign is compliant with the ownership under the Investment Negative Listrequirement and it is managed andprevailing operated Foreign Investment Negative List and it is managed and operated by licensed appraisers or valuation specialists; by licensed appraisers or valuation specialists; IV. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS IV. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS 1. All accredited appraisal companies or PSOs shall submit within one 1. All accredited appraisal or end PSOs submit one hundred thirty-five (135) companies days from the of shall its fiscal year,within an annual hundred thirty-five (135) AC-AR days from end by of its Chief fiscal Executive year, an annual report under SEC Form dulythe signed Officer report under SEC Form AC-AR duly signed by its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Finance Officer, or Managing Partner, as the case may be. “ and Chief Finance Officer, or Managing Partner, as the case may be. “ This Memorandum Circular is hereby issued to effect the subject This Memorandum Circular is hereby issued to effect the subject amendments. amendments.

This Memorandum Circular shall take effect after its publication in two (2) This Memorandum Circular shall take effect after its publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation. newspapers of general circulation.

Makati City, Philippines.

Makati City, Philippines.

November 14 , 2023.

November 14 , 2023.

EMILIO B. AQUINO EMILIO B. AQUINO Chairperson Chairperson

(MS-NOV. 16, 2023) (MS-NOV. 16, 2023)

THERE THEY ARE. Chinese President

Xi Jinping (right) disembarks from a plane as he arrives at San Francisco International airport to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders’ week within hours of the arrival of his counterpart Joe Biden (left). Xi last traveled to the United States six years ago, and is due for lengthy talks with Biden in their first in-person meeting in a year. The two presidents are meeting on the sidelines of APEC summit as both countries seek to stabilize ties. AFP

Taiwan’s top opposition parties join forces for presidential polls

‘State-backed hackers threat to Australia’

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

TAIPEI—Taiwan’s two leading opposition parties said Wednesday they would join forces for January’s presidential election, but they have not decided which candidate will be at the top of the ticket.

Kuomintang (KMT)—the island’s leading pro-Beijing political group— and the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) have been in discussion for weeks over an alliance, with two candidates tussling over who should run in the Jan. 13 polls.

KMT’s Hou Yu-ih has been polling neck-and-neck with TPP’s Ko Wen-je, who has performed better than expected as a third-party candidate.

The two sides struck “a cooperation agreement, creating a new record in Taiwan’s political history”, KMT heavyweight and former president Ma

Ying-jeou told reporters.

“This cooperation will enable mutual assistance between the two parties in future elections and other aspects, making it a very memorable day for both parties in Taiwan.”

The parties agreed to have three experts, picked by Ma as well as both parties, evaluate polls conducted from Nov. 7 to Nov. 17, with the results of the leading candidate due to be announced on Saturday.

Ko hailed the agreement as “a historic moment”.

“Regardless of the outcome, and no matter who is the presidential or vice presidential candidate, we must work together hand in hand to ensure peace and stability in the Republic of China,” said Hou, referring to Taiwan’s official name. AFP

BALLISTIC MISSILES. This undated picture released by North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency on Wednesday shows the first ground combustion test of a high-power solid fuel engine for a new intermediate-range ballistic missile, at an undisclosed location in North Korea. AFP

SYDNEY—Australia faces a “persistent threat” from state-backed hackers, the country’s signals intelligence agency said Wednesday, highlighting the particular danger of Russian and Chinese cyberattacks on critical infrastructure.

Australia has been hit by a string of high-profile hacks in the past 12 months, including one late last week that crippled major ports for three days.

Without laying blame for specific hacks or intrusions, the Australian Signals Directorate singled out Moscow and Beijing as among the country’s greatest cyber threats in its latest report.

State-backed hackers would probably continue targeting water supplies and electricity grids, the directorate said, and would likely ramp up efforts to steal military secrets from Australia and its allies.

Australia’s AUKUS defence pact with the United Kingdom and the United States could be a prime target, the report warned.

Under the AUKUS deal, Australia is set to acquire nuclear-powered submarines and develop advanced technology such as artificial intelligence and hypersonic missiles.

“The AUKUS partnership, with its focus on nuclear submarines and other advanced military capabilities, is likely a target for state actors looking to steal intellectual property for their own military programs,” the report said.

It highlighted an incident in May in which Beijing-backed hackers briefly infiltrated “critical infrastructure sectors” in the United States, warning that China could deploy similar techniques to gain access to Australian systems.

State-backed hackers are also creating “bespoke tools” to infiltrate government networks, the report warned, pointing to the Russian “Snake” malware network dismantled by the United States this year. AFP

North Korea tests new solid-fuel engines for missiles SEOUL—North Korea has developed and successfully conducted ground tests of a “new type” of solid-fuel engine for its banned intermediate-range ballistic missiles or IRBM, state media said Wednesday.

The announcement came as Pyongyang also disclosed a Russian delegation led by Moscow’s natural resources minister Alexander Kozlov was visiting Pyongyang to hold talks on cooperation in trade, economy, science and technology.

The two countries’ growing military cooper-

ation has been a source of concern for Ukraine and its allies, especially following North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in September.

The North “has developed new-type highthrust solid-fuel engines for intermediate ballistic missiles again, which are of important strategic significance,” Pyongyang’s official Korean Central News Agency reported.

The country also “successfully conducted the first ground jet tests of the first-stage engine and the second-stage engine on Novem-

ber 11 and 14 respectively,” it added.

Experts say solid-fuel missiles typically have a higher level of operational ease and safety, compared to liquid-fuel weapons.

Solid-fuel missiles don’t need to be fuelled before launch, making them harder to find and destroy, as well as quicker to use.

Testing a more technologically advanced solid-fuel missile was one of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s major goals in the military modernisation campaign announced in his New Year report. AFP

Indian rescuers send medicine to tunnel workers trapped for 4 days DEHRADUN, India—Indian rescuers said Wednesday they had sent medicine to 40 men trapped after the road tunnel they were building collapsed, as frantic efforts to free them entered a fourth day.

Excavators have been removing debris since Sunday morning from the site in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand to create an escape tunnel for the workers, all of whom are still alive.

“After consultation with doctors, medicine has been sent to the workers through pipes,” police officer Prashant Kumar told AFP from the site. “Contact is being maintained with the workers.”

No details were given about the

condition of the men or how many of them were sick.

Food and oxygen had also been sent to the trapped workers, he said.

But as rescue teams removed the vast piles of rubble, more fell from the broken roof of the tunnel, and two laborers working to remove the debris were injured overnight, he added.

The pace of drilling was “slow because of natural causes”, but efforts were being made on a “war footing”, Uttarakhand state police chief Ashok Kumar said in a statement on DOWN, BUT NOT OUT. Rescue workers gather at the site after a tunnel collapsed in the Uttarkashi district of India’s Wednesday.

Uttarakhand state on Monday. Rescue workers in northern The air force on Wednesday flew in India said they had made contact with 40 workers trapped a “drilling machine which will speed for over 24 hours after the road tunnel they were building up rescue work”, he added. AFP collapsed and are now sending medicines to them. AFP

BUSINESS

A7 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023

extrastory2000@gmail.com

Stocks, peso rise on soft US inflation report

By Jenniffer B. Austria

P

HILIPPINE stocks joined the Asian markets’ rally Wednesday after US inflation softened to 3.2 percent in October, boosting hopes the Federal Reserve would end its round of rate hikes.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index climbed 60.25 points or 0.99 percent, to close at 6,171.13, while the broader all-shares index went up 21.44 points or 0.65 percent, to settle at 3,307.72.

China Bank Capital managing director Juan Paolo Colet said the local shares rose in line with Asian bourses as the market drew strength from the lower

-than-expected US October inflation.

“Investors have also started to anticipate that the BSP [Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas] will keep rates steady in its policy meeting on Thursday,” Colet said.

Except for industrial sector, all subindices ended in the green.

The peso also advanced Wednesday to close at 55.825 against the US dollar

from 56.06 Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Asian equities surged and the dollar struggled after slowerthan-forecast US inflation was seen as all but putting to bed any chance of another interest rate hike, even allowing traders to bet on a series of cuts in the new year.

A big slowdown in UK prices gave traders extra support, but weighed on sterling.

Investors built on a strong performance on Wall Street -- where US Treasury yields also sank -- fueled by a sense of relief sweeping through markets that more than a year of painful tightening may have finally come to an end.

The 3.3 percent reading in the October consumer price index was well

down from the 3.7 percent seen in the previous month and 0.1 percentage point below what was expected. Core inflation was also below estimates.

Several Fed officials have lined up in recent months to warn that while inflation has come down from the multi-decade peaks of last year, it remained too high to give up on their rate-hike campaign for fear of prices reflating.

But the latest figures will embolden traders, who are skeptical that the central bank will act on any hawkish instincts for fear of tipping the economy into recession.

Data suggests they are now betting on as much as a one percentage point cut in rates through next year.

“The fact that the US Fed seems to be

done with rates and inflation is behind us for now is definitely a positive for all risky assets,” Pooja Malik, of Nipun Capital, told Bloomberg Television, but she warned of the possibility of more volatility over the next 12-18 months.

After Wall Street’s rally that saw the Nasdaq jump more than two percent and the S&P 1.9 percent, Asia picked up the baton.

Tech giants helped push Hong Kong nearly four percent higher, while Tokyo, Seoul and Bangkok each added more than two percent.

Sydney, Wellington, Mumbai, Taipei and Jakarta were all up more than one percent, with Shanghai, Singapore and Manila also in positive territory. Paris and Frankfurt both rose at the open. With AFP

PH needs water supply security, not uncertainty Out in the Open Ray S. Eñano

INVESTING in water infrastructure In addition, it is building a new wais not an easy task. It is an arduous job ter treatment plant in Barangay Powith social responsibility at the core blacion, Muntinlupa. the third facility of the project. Dipping into the wa- of Maynilad to tap Laguna Lake as ter business must navigate the course source with a capacity to produce 150 within an ethical framework. One MLD. should bear in mind that unclean waAnother sustainable supply source ter and poor sanitation are a leading that Maynilad has developed to furcause of child mortality. ther augment supply from traditional The United Nations has recognized sources is NEW WATER, which is the human right to water and sanita- potable water supply sourced from tion—and made the availability of the the treated effluent of its sewage treatcommodity as part of the sustainable ment plant. Maynilad is working to development goals that every nation expand its NEW WATER output by must achieve. constructing similar facilities in other The World Health Organization cities within its concession.

(WHO) in 2019 noted that one in 10 Maynilad is not about hit the breaks.

Filipinos do not have access to clean It plans to further expand its coverage water sources. Just in March this year, and improve its water management the National Water Resources Board systems. With contracts amounting to (NWRB) confirmed that 11 million at least P222 billion, with a disburseFilipino families meet their water ment plan of about P163.3 through needs from “unsafe” sources, includ- 2027, the company aims to ensure a ing rivers, lakes and better water future even rain water. for the West Zone.

Without access to Maynilad’s inclean water, 53,066 vestments are part Investing in water Filipinos died beof a long process. infrastructure is an tween 2010 and It plans to lay down 2019 due to water55 kilometers of new arduous job with borne diseases, data primary water lines social responsibility and replacing 639 from the Philippine Statistics Authority kilometers of aging at the core...

(PSA) show. The pipes. dire statistics underThe program inscore the need for cludes the replacesustainable water ment of a staggering management.

538,969 old meters, the purchase of But you need heavy infrastructure 24 leak detection equipment and the investments to achieve water sustain- installation of 100 new hydrant meability. ters while replacing 750 existing ones.

Maynilad Water Services Inc., the The accelerated capital spending, concessionaire responsible for pro- however, hinges on the extension of its viding water services to the western revised concession agreement (RCA) zone of Metro Manila, knows what with the Metropolitan Waterworks is at stake and the huge investments and Sewerage System (MWSS). required to ensure a more responsible Under Republic Act 11600. water management regime. It has al- Maynilad’s franchise is scheduled ready spent P210 billion to improve to last a quarter of a century, or until the infrastructure in 15 years since its 2047. Maynilad’s concession agreere-privatization in 2007. ment with the MWSS, as outlined in Led by Metro Pacific Investments the operative RCA, however, is set Corp., DMCI Holdings Inc.,and Mar- to run its course and conclude on ubeni Corp., Maynilad addressed per- May 6, 2037, which is approximatesistent water management problems ly a decade prior to the expiration of that had resulted in the recovery of its franchise.

416 millions of liters per day (MLD) The extension of the RCA will of lost water, the production of 305 strengthen Maynilad’s operational MLD in additional supply and an in- and financial capabilities, and enable crease in the service coverage in the it to provide consumers with affordWest Zone to 95 percent from just 78 able water service without undue unpercent. certainty or delay.

The company expanded the 24-hour By extending the RCA, Maynilad supply of water to 96 percent of its will have a longer period of cost recovcustomers, a dramatic increase from ery, resulting in lower tariff increases. just 32 percent in 2006, improved Financial simulations show that a onewater pressure delivery to 87 percent time equivalent tariff increase can be from only 45 percent and reduced to- reduced from 58.56 percent to 35.61 tal non-revenue water (NRW) to 43 percent with the 10-year extension. percent from a staggering 68 percent.

Within the same period, Maynilad The effort, though, is not enough— intends to embark on a 10-year spendmuch has to be done to further ensure ing program of about P85 billion to a sustainable water future. There is raise the quality of service and broadno let-up in investments. Maynilad en its operational scope. is building four modular treatment Investing in the future should not plants in Cavite — two in Imus and be fraught with many uncertainties. two in Bacoor. The Imus plants will Maynilad has that noble mission to be operational before the end of 2023, provide sufficient water supply, and while those in Bacoor are expected satisfy basic human needs and the to be online by the fourth quarter of growing demand of the Philippine 2024. They will generate additional economy. water capacity, ranging from 4 MLD to 18 MLD between now and next E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or year. extrastory2000@gmail.com

—“—

NEW TRANSCO CEO. The National Transmission Corp.’s (TransCo) board of directors announces the

appointment of Fortunato Leynes (right) as the new president and chief executive on Nov. 10, 2023. TransCo outgoing officer-in-charge and vice president for the transmission management group Dinna Dizon leads the ceremonial turnover of the flag to Leynes during the flag-raising ceremony, symbolizing the transition in leadership on Nov. 13, 2023.

GMA Network’s income falls 52% on lack of political ads

By Darwin G. Amojelar GMA Network Inc. said Wednesday its net income dropped 52 percent in the first nine months of 2023 in the absence of political advertisements this year.

The broadcast network said it posted a net income of P2.5 billion from January to September, down from P5.1 billion in the same period last year.

Consolidated revenues amounted to P13.76 billion, or 18 percent lower than P16.75 billion in the same period last year, which included the extraordinary boost from the 2022 national elections.

GMA’s advertising revenues amounted to P12.68 billion, down by 20 percent from P15.77 billion last year.

“Household spending, which is one of the biggest contributors and key driv-

ers of growth in the local economy, has weakened amid elevated inflation and rising borrowing costs,” GMA said.

“As a result, major fast-moving consumer goods clients of the company which largely bank on individual purchasing power have likewise scaled down their ad spending,” it said.

NEPC vows to provide reliable electric service

By Alena Mae S. Flores NEGROS Electric and Power Corp. (NEPC) vowed to bring reliable and uninterrupted electric service to consumers after the House Committee on Legislative Franchises preliminarily approved House Bill 9310 granting it a power distribution franchise.

The franchise will enable NEPC to establish and maintain an electric power distribution system in key cities such as Bacolod, Silay, Talisay and Bago as well as the municipalities of Murcia and Don Salvador Benedicto in Negros Occidental and ensure a continuous and uninterrupted supply of electricity in the franchise area.

The hearing was chaired by Parañaque Rep. Gus Tambunting.

PBA Partylist Rep. Margarita Nograles moved for the approval in principle of the bill, subject to style and subject to the submission of documents from the Energy Regulatory Commission, National Electrification Administration, Securities and Exchange Commission, Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO) and Primelectric Holdings Inc. Primelectric president Roel Castro vowed to submit documents required by the committee.

Primelectric is a company led by businessman Enrique Razon Jr. Castro said there is an urgent need to improve electric services in Negros Occidental, given the issues faced by CENECO consumers.

Merchandise sales over the past nine months totaled P268 million, up by 1 percent from the previous year’s P266.02 million—mainly from sales of GMA Affordabox.

GMA Affordabox sold over 2.7 million units across the country since its launch in mid-2020.

The company’s consolidated total costs reached P10.59 billion, an increase of 5 percent versus a year ago.

Direct production cost rose 8 percent, while general and administrative expenses inched up by 0.2 percent.

“Despite economic challenges, management made a deliberate effort to control expenses while ensuring the company’s commitment to providing high-quality entertainment and responsible news delivery to its viewers remains a priority,” GMA said.

BUSINESS

A8

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023

extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor BILATERAL MEETING.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual and US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo hold a bilateral meeting at Marriott Marquis Hotel in San Francisco, California on Nov. 13, 2023. Pascual highlighted the advanced and stronger economic collaboration with the United States, citing the pivotal role of the US in the Philippines stride for economic growth and development.

The DTI chief also shared the country’s interest in forging partnerships to boost the innovation economy through a worker-centered, sustainability-driven, fair and transparent approach.

PSE in talks with SEC to acquire majority of fixed-income bourse

By Jenniffer B. Austria THE Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) said Wednesday it revived plans to acquire a controlling stake in Philippine Dealing System Holdings Corp. to unify the country’s equities and fixedincome bourses.

PSE chief finance officer Roel Refran said in a virtual forum the local bourse re-initiated talks with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on the planned acquisition of PDS. Refran expressed hope the PSE would secure regulatory clearance by early next year.

“In terms of timeline, the process is something we have re-initiated with our SEC. The timelines we are looking at clearing, for the purpose of getting regulatory hurdles, hopefully by 2024 as early as we can in the first or second quarter,” Refran said.

He said the acquisition of PDS would

BSP: OFW money increased 2.6% to $2.91b in September

By Julito G. Rada

C

ASH remittances from overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) rose 2.6 percent to a two-month high of $2.91 billion in September 2023 from $2.84 billion a year ago, data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed Wednesday.

“The growth in cash remittances in September 2023 was due to increased receipts from both land- and sea-based workers,” the BSP said.

This brought total cash remittances in the first nine months to $24.49 billion, a 2.8-percent increase from $23.83 billion received in the same period last year.

“The growth in cash remittances from the United States, Saudi Arabia

and Singapore contributed mainly to the increase in remittances in the first three quarters of 2023,” it said.

The US was the largest source of remittances during the period, followed

by Singapore, Saudi Arabia and Japan.

Meanwhile, personal remittances which also include non-cash items, reached $3.23 billion, or 2.6 percent higher than $3.15 billion recorded in the same month last year.

“The growth in personal remittances in September 2023 was driven by increased remittances from land-based workers with work contracts of one year or more, and sea- and land-based workers with work contracts of less than one year,” the BSP said.

The total personal remittances received from January to September reached $27.24 billion, up by 2.8 percent from $26.49 billion registered in the comparable period in 2022.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort earlier said remittances from OFWs in the Middle East would not be significantly affected by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas militants that started Oct. 7.

Remittances from OFWs working in Israel stood at $66.7 million from Janu-

ary to July this year, representing 0.5 percent of the total remittances for the period.

Remittances from Israel reached $110.6 million in 2022, or 0.3 percent of the total, Ricafort said, citing data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

He said, however, “there might be some reduction of new OFW deployment.” The government said about 30,000 Filipinos are living in Israel.

Cash remittances rose 3.6 percent in 2022 to a record $32.54 billion from $31.42 billion in 2021 on sustained demand for skilled Filipino workers overseas. The full-year remittances growth, however, missed the official target of 4 percent set by the Bangko Sentral.

The Bangko Sentral expects remittances to grow 3 percent in 2023.

PAL signs codeshare agreement with Singapore Airlines

By Darwin G. Amojelar PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) said Wednesday it signed a new codeshare partnership agreement with Singapore Airlines (SIA) to enhance flight options for customers traveling between the two countries and to other domestic and international destinations via their respective hubs.

“We are happy to offer our Philippine Airlines passengers a wider range of flights between Manila and Singapore through this codeshare partnership, affirming our promise to keep building new connections and opportunities for our customers,” said Captain Stanley Ng, president and chief operating officer of PAL. “The partnership is the product of a strengthened relationship with our fellow ASEAN mainline carrier, Singapore Airlines, and an enduring commitment to expanding our presence in Singapore, a top PAL destination that we have been serving for 58 years and counting,” he said.

Ng said PAL is looking forward to offering increased connectivity to several cities across Europe, home to many overseas Filipinos and to a growing number of tourist and business travelers.

The codeshare agreement will start on SIA’s and PAL’s flights between Singapore and Manila by the fourth quarter of 2023, subject to regulatory approvals.

SIA will also codeshare on PAL’s flights from Manila to 27 destinations within the Philippines, while PAL will codeshare on SIA’s flights to six destinations in Europe – Copenhagen, Frankfurt, Milan, Paris, Rome and Zurich.

These European codeshare sectors will be rolled out progressively across PAL and SIA sales channels and travel agents over the coming weeks.

TRANSPORT MINISTERS. Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista (left) joins his counterparts at the 29th ASEAN Transport Ministers (ATM) Meeting and Associated Meetings on Nov. 9 to 10 in Luang Prabang, Lao PDR. The annual convening of ASEAN transport ministers saw the adoption of several key documents, which are expected to contribute in realizing the objectives of the Kuala Lumpur Transport Strategic Plan (KLTSP) 2016-2025.

make PSE a multiple asset class. It is also more aligned with the practices in developed markets, he said.

The PSE expressed interest in acquiring more shares in PDS Holdings as early as 2013 to unify the capital markets. It signed in 2017 a new share purchase agreement for the acquisition of the PDS stake owned the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP), BAP Credit Bureau, certain member banks and other banks.

The planned acquisition did not push through as the SEC thumbed down the PSE’s request for exemption from the 20-percent cap in the ownership of a single industry in an exchange.

Meanwhile, Refran said capital raising activities at the stock exchange reached P91.88 billion in the first nine months of 2023, down from a year ago as fewer companies tapped the capital market amid the challenging market conditions.

BIR: SC denies tax refund claim of San Miguel THE Bureau of Internal Revenue won a case before the Supreme Court against the tax refund claim of San Miguel Corp. (SMC) amounting to P30.42 million, Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. said Wednesday.

Lumagui said the SC, in a decision promulgated on April 12, 2023, ruled that SMC was not entitled to a refund of its documentary stamp tax (DST) on its inter-company advances made in 2009, based on Section 179 of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC).

The SC ruled that the application of a case law that was only promulgated in 2011 was not prejudicial to SMC, as the same was merely an interpretation of the NIRC, which has been in effect since Dec. 23, 1993, Lumagui said.

“All applications for tax refund should comply with both substantive and formal requirements. This includes the legal basis for the refund and the documentary requirements to show such basis,” Lumagui said in a statement.

The Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) earlier granted a portion of SMC’s tax refund claim pertaining to its interest rate amounting P15,916,794.59, saying that the latter had acted in good faith when it relied on previous BIR issuances which stated that intercompany loans and advances covered by inter-office memoranda were not subject to DST. The SC reversed the CTA ruling, saying that “good faith cannot be invoked by SMC on the basis of previous BIR issuances since the same were not issued in its favor.”

“Since SMC failed to obtain a favorable ruling from the BIR declaring that their advances to related parties were not subject to DST, it cannot belatedly claim good faith under a BIR Ruling issued to a different entity,” the SC said.

Julito G. Rada

NEDA releases guidelines to implement Digital Workforce Competitiveness Act THE National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said Wednesday it released the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 11927, or the Philippine Digital Workforce Competitiveness Act, following a series of consultations with government agencies, private sector representatives and other stakeholders.

It said the IRR was approved on Oct. 23, 2023 by the nine members of the Inter-Agency Council (IAC) for the Development and Competitiveness of the Philippine Digital Workforce — a council established under Section 5 of the said Republic Act. “The strategic and thorough execution of the Philippine Digital Workforce Competitiveness Act will be vital for equipping the workforce with digi-

tal technologies and skills and fostering a dynamic innovation ecosystem in the country,” NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said Wednesday.

The IRR outlines the establishment of the IAC, chaired by the NEDA and composed of eight other agencies including the Departments of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Trade and Industry, Information and Communications Technology, Science and Technology, Interior and Local Government and Education as well as the Commission on Higher Education and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

The council will serve as the primary planning, coordinating and implementing body in promoting, developing, and enhancing the competitiveness of the Philippine digital workforce. Julito G. Rada

AGRICULTURE SUPPORT. Executives of Cargill Philippines lead the planting of coconut seedings in support of the RISE Coco (Recovery Intervention for Severely Affected Coconut Farming Communities of Bohol by ST Odette) project in Bohol province. Cargill Philippines, the local subsidiary of the global food and agribusiness leader, says it is investing $2.6 million to support existing and new projects as it celebrates its 75th anniversary of helping Filipino partners and consumers thrive.

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SPORTS

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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

PBA scribes fete Sumang, Cruz, Arana

MPBL CHAMPION. The jubilant Pampanga Giant Lanterns celebrate their title conquest in the MPBL North Division.

National kickboxing tourney to select members of PH team

By Randy Caluag

T

HE 2023 National Kickboxing Championships opened on Wednesday with more than 200 combat athletes from various martial arts clubs nationwide seeing action at the newly built Tagaytay Combat Sports Center in Tagaytay City.

Some national athletes are taking part in the three-day event that aims to fill the slots for the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games slate for February next year.

They include Cambodia Southeast Asian Games gold winners Gretel de Paz and Claudine Veloso, silver medalist Gina Iniong and bronze medalists Harold Banario and Jomar Balangui, to name a few.

Athletes come from Baguio, Benguet, Ilocos Sur, Cebu, Bicol, Iloilo, Cavite, Rizal and Metro Manila that

will compete in lowkick and full contact in the ring sport category and pointfighting and kicklight in the mat category.

“We have expanded our events to accommodate younger athletes to discover more junior fighters. At the same time, senior athletes, including our national players will vie for slots to AIMAG in Thailand,” said Samahang Kickboxing Ng Pilipinas secretary general Atty. Wharton Chan.

SKP founder and chairman Emeritus Mayor Abraham Tolentino of Tagaytay

JERICHO Cruz, Roi Sumang, and Justin Arana will get a share of the limelight in the PBA Press Corps Awards Night on Nov. 20 at Novotel Manila Araneta City.

Cruz of San Miguel is Mr. Quality Minutes, Sumang is the recipient of the William ‘Bogs’ Adornado Comeback Player of the Year, and Arana leads the All-Rookie team.

Named Rookie of the Year of PBA Season 47, Arana, the promising big man of Converge, is at the forefront of the All-Rookie honor which includes Renato Ular of Blackwater, no. 1 overall pick Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser of NLEX, Phoenix guard Tyler Tio, and Encho Serrano, formerly of Phoenix.

The 33-year-old Cruz meanwhile, was the choice as Mr. Quality Minutes or equivalent to the Sixth Man of the Year award after being a major contributor to a star-studded San Miguel team despite coming off the bench for most of last season.

Cruz averaged 11.3 points last year when he won his first championship with the Beermen during the Philippine Cup. He’s the latest recipient of the award whose previous winners include the likes of Bong Alvarez, Rodney Santos, Mark Caguioa, Ronald Tubid, PJ Simon, Jayson Castro, Larry Fonacier, Jervy Cruz, Jio Jalalon, Vic Manuel, Calvin Abueva, among others.

It’s actually the second time Cruz will be named Mr. Quality Minutes, which he first won during the 2015-16 season when he was still with Rain or Shine.

Sumang, meanwhile, came back from a hamstring injury and relived his role as a reliable backcourt backup to Robert Bolick at Northport.

Jericho Cruz of SMB

Tagaytay City Mayor and POC president welcomes delegates of the 2023 National Kickboxing Championship.

City declared the Games open and extolled the athletes to aspire for positions in the national squad, stressing that kickboxing may soon found its way to the Olympics.

“We have grown big since we revitalized kickboxing in the country. It is

already recognized by the International Olympic Committee and ang kasunod could be inclusion into the sports calendar, so you are looking at a bit future for kickboxing,” said Tolentino, who is also the president of the Philippine Olympic Committee.

Imalay, Rodriguez shine in PPS Silay tennis KATE Imalay and Andrian Rodriguez fashioned out victories and runner-up finishes in their respective sides, earning them co-MVP honors in the Mayor Joedith Gallego National Juniors Tennis Championships at the Silay courts in Negros Occidental over the weekend.

The top-seeded Imalay, 14, demonstrated dominance in her age bracket, dropping just six games, including a 6-0, 6-2 rout of second seed Alexa Cruspero in the finals. Despite a 0-6.1-6 setback to Bacolod’s Hannah Divinagracia in the 16-and-under category, the rising Bato, Leyte star emerged the top performer among female players in the Group I tournament presented by Dunlop.

Rodriquez, on the other hand, survived Kurt Montenegro, 4-2, 4-5 (1), 10-2, in the semis then repulsed Raphael Lamata, 6-3, 6-2, to clinch

Kate Imalay (second from right) and Andrian Rodriquez hold their trophies as they pose with (from left) Silay City sports director Marlon Parreno and coach Pecos Oeste after sharing top honors in the inaugural Mayor Gallego junior tennis tournament.

the boys’ 14-and-U title. However, fought 3-6. 6-1, 6-10 battle to top seed the Bacolod City native fell short in Jeremy Napiere from Cadiz City. the 16-and-U finals, losing a closelyTakuya Joson and Jasmine Jaran,

both from La Carlota City, also claimed the top spots in the premier division with the former repelling Romell Gimena, 6-3, 1-6, 10-7, and the latter blasting Louchelaj Estember, 6-0, 6-2, in the 18-and-U finals.

The event, which drew nearly 200 entries, served as part of the junior tennis program put up by Palawan Pawnshop president/CEO Bobby Castro.

Impressed by the huge turnout, Mayor Gallego pledged to host the tournament annually, including the Open championship. Additionally, the city plans to construct two more (tennis) courts as part of Silay City’s grassroots sports development program to encourage youth participation.

Other singles winners were Kathlyn Bugna, Jake Jarqueo and Rayven Milliam, all from La Carlota.

Cignal HD edges JM-Davao City, marches to quarters Games Thursday (Rizal Memorial Coliseum, Manila) 8 a.m. – Volida Volleyball Club vs CSB (women’s) 10 a.m. – Letran vs Arellano (women’s) 12 p.m. – UB vs RTU (women’s) 2 p.m. – Iloilo vs EAC 4 p.m. – Marikina vs Parañaque 6 p.m. – NU vs VNS Asereht

POWERHOUSE Cignal HD trounced Kuya JMDavao City, 25-19, 25-17, 25-11, on Wednesday, to punch a ticket to the Philippine National Volleyball Federation Challenge Cup quarterfinal round at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila.

The HD Spikers needed only 74 minutes to dispatch their foes and extend their unbeaten campaign to three games in Pool A of the 20-team men’s division of the tourney supported by the Philippine Sports Commission, headed by chairman Richard Bachmann, PLDT, Rebisco, Akari, Foton and CBPI.

Cignal previously clobbered Savouge Aesthetics, 25-21, 25-16, 25-22, and the University of Batangas 25-14, 25-15, 25-16, entering its last assignment against Volida Volleyball Club this weekend.

PGJC Navy also booked a quarterfinal spot after a default win against Angatleta-Orion, Bataan for a similar 3-0 record in Pool C approaching its last match against Jose Rizal University.

The Sealions’ first two wins came against 3B Marikina City, 25-20, 25-11-, 25-18 and Plaridel, Quezon, 25-18, 25-23, 25-10.

Also in Pool C, JRU stayed unbeaten in two games to boost its quarterfinal hopes with a 2513, 25-17, 25-19 win over Marikina after its 25-11, 25-12, 25-15 victory over Angatleta-Orion, Bataan last week.

In Pool A, Savouge Aesthetics improved to 1-1 after routing the winless Volida Volleyball Club, 25-11, 25-11, 25-17.

ICTSI-PSA Cup golf revival at Southwoods THE Manila Southwoods and ICTSI, two of the biggest entities involved in golf in the country, will present the ninth edition of the Philippine Sportswriters Association Cup at the wellmanicured Legends course in Carmona on Friday.

This will be the first staging of the event since 2019, with Southwoods, which runs the most dominant amateur program of the last decade, and ICTSI, which bankrolls the country’s men’s and ladies pro tours, all too willing to lend their support.

“It will be a day of fun, camaraderie and friendly competition among golfing members of the PSA and our friends,” said Nelson Beltran, the Philippine Star sports editor and PSA president.

The 18-hole event will be the first under Beltran’s watch, with the last, also hosted by Southwoods in 2019, led by Dodo Catacutan of spin.ph.

“This gives us a chance to renew friendships with those we cover,” Beltran said. “It’s something we have been looking forward to and we’re very thankful that we get to hold it again.”

An overall champion will be named where PSA members will be competing with sponsor/friends, counting Philippine Football Federation president Mariano Araneta and Dr. Ian Laurel of the Shakey’s volleyball circuit.

Manila

Standard

TODAY

B3

SHOWBIZ

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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

Touchbass

Yugel Losorata

Gloc-9 (3rd from left) is the featured rapper in Chocolate Factory’s recently dropped digital single ‘Paglipad’

This and those tracks featuring Gloc-9 AT SOME period it became super cool to collaborate with a guy christened as Francis Magalona’s heir to the throne.

Yes, getting Gloc-9 to rap on one of your songs was at one point a way to show fans that you’re on top of the heap or had gotten a big break.

To do the same maneuver in 2023 is not passe. In fact, whereas Gloc-9 was the hottest ticket sometime in the past, now he has evolved into a music icon - a beloved figure out of the shadow of a master rapper.

He has established his name as a musical poet who inspires the downtrodden and who chooses to tell stories of the common man surviving hurdles.

Yeah, legions of small minds may easily fall prey to the lure of dirty rap being performed by recording artists who gaslight people they accuse of being green-minded. But there will always be empowered souls listening to what Gloc-9 and his collaborators have to offer.

The Pinoy rap A-lister recently lent his highly acknowledged skill to Chocolate Factory, a fivepiece pride of Pampanga that integrates classic rock to reggae, jazz, and blues. The track is “Paglipad,” dropped on digital stores last September 15.

The song, according to insiders of the band that released songs now boasting millions of streams, is “a reminder of pushing forward through all obstacles” and “eventually turning adversity to advantage.”

Musically, the song is reminiscent of rock groups that fuse rap verses with melodically strong choruses, like Dicta License does and Slapshock did. “Huwag kang matatakot na magkamali,” its chorus says.

By the time someone urges, “Tandaan mo lamang ang sinabi ko,” you know it’s something Gloc-9 would say and there’s no doubt it’s him behind it. Talkin’ about a distinctive voice with clear, good messaging!

While having a major rap star on a track is a guaranteed push, big credit should still be given to the artist who does most of the recording elements.

Chocolate Factory is advertised as a reggae collective, but there’s more to the band.

Versatility is their operative word. That is why in their most streamed track, “Kung Ika’y Akin,” currently with more than 10 million clicks and counting, they went Tag-lish, singing “I’ll never gonna make you cry/ ‘Di kita iiwan habang buhay.”

The group’s vocal synergy is best put on display on “Asa Ka Pa,” off their Kriminal Minds EP which earned a nomination at the 2021 Awit Awards for Best World Music Recording.

Their song “Lord” actually won an Awit for the same category in 2020.

“Paglipad’s” official music video, directed by Andrei Julitan, features a girl character enduring the challenges one faces in fight sports, and likewise featuring Gloc-9.

According to their Spotify bio, Chocolate Factory’s “high proficiency and mastery in playing their instruments” mixes well with their stage presence. By now they have more than 200,000 monthly listeners as they “manage to win the hearts of the people.”

Gloc-9 may have lost track of how many artists he has collaborated with to date. But he is consistent with teaming up with charismatically talented acts. That makes songs featuring him extra special.

Vlogger competes at 28th Asian Television Awards SOCIAL media program Jack Logan Realtalks is nominated for the best single digital program/short film category of the 28th Asian Television Awards. Logan’s entry to the prestigious awards is the June 2023 episode featuring San Juan City’s colorful history, which includes the 1896 Philippine Revolution.

The 28th Asian Television Awards, which will be held on January 12 and 13, 2024 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, honors production and programming excellence in the Asian television industry. Last year’s awards program was held in the Philippines.

Jack Logan, the man behind the show, is a social media personality and content creator known for his hard-hitting commentaries, life talks, travel videos that are both informative and humorous, and product reviews. He is also a writer, filmmaker, director, and producer with a portfolio of both short and full-length digital films and documentaries.

Logan, who has over 2 million followers on social media, continues to touch Filipinos’ lives here and around the world with his original motivational quotes, inspiring programs, comedy skits, and genuine Pinoy humor. He is the only Filipino vlogger to compete in the category.

“I am more than honored to be nominated for the short film category,” said Logan.

“To be recognized for my work on the international scene is already a win for me.”

(MS-NOV. 9/16/23, 2023)

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Social media personality and content creator Jack Logan

B4

LIFE

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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

The blanket in a gingerinspired beige adds a fluffy texture and a luxurious look draped over a sofa back or folded on the foot of a bed

Holiday magic

Create joyful moments at home with Crate and Barrel’s festive decor, chic gatherings, and gifts that spark joy

T

HIS holiday season, Crate and Barrel invites shoppers to create joyful and share-worthy moments right at home. We have everything you need to make this holiday season one to remember.

Create a magical Christmas with Crate and Barrel’s vast selection of Christmas décor, from sparkling ornaments and elegant tablecloths to festive garlands and cozy throws. We have everything you need to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Make your holiday gatherings a success with Crate and Barrel’s extensive collection of holiday essentials. From stylish tableware and elegant serveware to festive napkins and sparkling candles,

A study in delicious contradictions, the Craft Holiday Forest Green Dinnerware collection is strong and durable yet light and refined

we have everything you need to impress your guests and create a memorable dining experience.

Holiday looks to love ‘Tis the season to make your home merry and bright.

Think winter white with a hint of natural beauty and metallics, or classic green and red that’s timeless and festive. No matter your style, discover all you need to easily make your home holiday-ready at Crate and Barrel. Choose from a variety of ornaments that light up a room and beautifully designed toppers and skirts for your tree.

Joan Anderson’s whimsical holiday critters are back by popular demand, this time posing solo on embroidered throw pillows

Swap out your pillows for cozy accents of whimsical pillow covers and plush throws for easy layering.

Deck the halls with candlelight that glows, décor that sparkles, and centerpieces that wow—everything you’ll need to add holiday cheer to every corner.

Chic holiday gatherings The heart of holiday gatherings— the living room and dining room. It’s often forgotten that the furniture is just as important as all the décor for the holidays. Crate and Barrel’s familyfavorite sofas, expandable dining

Secrets to achieving that mochi-mochi skin

By Angelica Villanueva EMBARK on a journey towards the latest skincare sensation sweeping Asia—the pursuit of mochi-mochi skin, a coveted trend championed by Japanese skincare brand Hada Labo.

Widely recognized for its top-ranking face lotion in Japan, Hada Labo introduces the Premium Whitening Moisturizers, a groundbreaking line promising to amplify the quest for radiant, healthy skin.

The Hada Labo Premium Whitening Moisturizer line comprises two variants: the Premium Whitening Water Cream and the Premium Whitening Water Gel. Both products boast a potent blend of brightening ingredients, including Niacinamide, Alpha-Arbutin, and Vitamin C, which work synergistically to reawaken dull skin, combat dark spots, and even out skin tone.

The Premium Whitening Water Gel is the ideal choice aims to give a refreshing solution for normal to oily skin with its ultra-lightweight water gel texture glides effortlessly onto the skin, providing instant absorption and a refreshing sensation.

On the other hand, the Premium Whitening Water Cream serves as a silky soft hydrator perfect for all skin types. It envelopes the skin in a silky soft embrace, delivering deep hydration. Its rich, creamy texture is suitable for all skin types, even those prone to dryness.

Jenny Arcellana, Head of Marketing at Cambert (Pilipinas) Inc., distributor of Hada Labo products in the Philippines.

“Hada Labo has always been known for delivering well-hydrated mochi-mochi skin, especially with its bestselling face lotions that are innovatively infused with five types of hyaluronic acid,” Arcellana started.

“This is why we’re launching the full sizes of Hada Labo Premium Whitening Moisturizers here in the country to help Filipino users achieve that fresh and radiant glow that you can get only with a well-moisturized complexion. These moisturizers work hand-in-hand with our face lotions to boost their benefits and reveal the glowing skin you deserve,” she added.

Meanwhile, board-certified dermatologist Beatrice Maxine Chan, RPh, MD, DPDS, emphasizes the importance of moisturizers in achieving skincare goals.

“This extra layer of moisture enhances the skin’s natural barrier function against external elements like pollutants and irritants. It also minimizes the risk of water loss, keeping your skin from suffering any dryness or irritation, which is common over the holiday season when the weather is a bit cooler than usual,” Dr. Chan explained.

“So, the next time you think about your skincare routine, remember that true skin care involves both hydrating and moisturizing for the best results,” she continued.

Dr. Chan also suggested going for multifunctional moisturizers with skinfriendly and brightening active ingredients like niacinamide, alpha-arbutin, and vitamin C. “Niacinamide enhances skin tone and barrier, alpha-arbutin brightens and reduces discoloration, and finally, vitamin C can illuminate dark spots by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for skin discoloration. Having at least one of these ingredients in your routine can help you achieve a healthy-looking complexion over time,” reiterated Dr. Chan.

Embrace inner glow and unveil mochimochi crystal bright skin with Hada Labo Premium Whitening Moisturizers.

These revitalizing moisturizers are now available at Watsons stores nationwide, the Watsons Online Store, and the official Mentholatum stores on Lazada and Shopee.

Hada Labo launches its newest product offerings and delves into the importance of keeping the skin hydrated and moisturized throughout the year

Clean lines and an ontrend, how-low-can-you-go seat give the Oceanside sectional its breezy ease and modern attitude

tables, and quality dining chairs are perfect for holiday lounging and have the right comfort and style that will make you and your guests want to linger.

Be the chicest host and set your table modern, merry, and festive with entertaining essentials that make hosting feel effortless. Get a festive look with seasonal colors and bold hues of deep red and forest green, or if you prefer a minimalist setting, try a Scandinavian feel with crisp white plates and other entertaining essentials with subtle nods to the holidays. Don’t forget the layers for your tablescape— table napkins, kitchenware turned serveware, drinkware, and everything in between. Most of all, don’t forget the show-stopping centerpiece to match your showstopping menu.

Give gifts that spark joy Gifting is always made special with Crate and Barrel, and here’s how they’ve made it easier than ever. Discover gift bundles online at www.crateandbarrel. com.ph that are expertly curated so they’re easy to give and ready to love.

Make gifting even more special with personalization options in-stores where you can add a name or initials to a great selection of items.

This year, they’ve also got a D.I.Y. gifting corner, where you can choose from any of the items and get it at a special price. The gift you know everyone will love? Gift cards—it’s a quick add-on but still thoughtful.

Bring home the holiday magic with Crate and Barrel and discover Christmas-ready décor, holiday essentials, delightful gifts, and more to get everyone into the spirit this season and make this Christmas the best one yet. Visit Crate and Barre at SM Aura Premier, SM Makati, and SM Megamall, call to order, or shop online.

Job Well Done Joba Botana

What gardening has taught me In gardening, you get to acknowledge and appreciate the beauty of what surrounds you

Some of the plants in the author’s balcony

A DEAR friend recently confided that week’s rest. When I started gardening, it her life over the past few years has been dawned on me that I didn’t need anyone’s marked by a succession of fresh starts – permission to take a rest and that I had to a sentiment that resonates with many, honor my body and prioritize my health. including myself.

Taking a break is a must.

The prospect of embarking on a new Being present. When you are gardening, chapter can manifest in various ways, you are forced to be still, to be in the moment. whether as simple as switching to a You can’t be anywhere else. Sure your mind different hair product, as both daunting may wander, but one look at a sprouting and exhilarating as launching into a bud or a tiny flower brings you back to your new job and relocating, or as painful as senses. This is one of the healing powers grappling with the loss of loved ones. of gardening. Studies show that gardening I’m no stranger to the ebb and flow of improves one’s mental health. closures and fresh beginnings, moments Being in the moment has been a I’ve consistently approached with a challenge for me. I was always after mixture of excitement and trepidation. A the next step, a new place to visit, an significant turning point for me unfolded upcoming trip, or what have you. When I during the 2020 pandemic, ushering in am gardening, I am present. And except subsequent new beginnings. Between when my cat Daisy meows her way these changes, I found solace in acquiring towards me and dominates the scene, I just and nurturing plants until my little balcony enjoy the moment. was filled with pots of plants, some of Noticing beauty. If you check your which I don’t even know the names of. plants a few times a day, you notice the Gardening, in all its trial-and-error little changes. A plant that used to slightly glory, has proven to be a profound learning lean on one side is now standing up straight experience. after watering it. A new leaf is starting to Taking a break. In between planting, sprout on a Queen of the Night plant. The repotting, changing soil, and figuring Golden Showers are giving more flowers. out what ails a certain plan, you need to The Basils are ready for harvest. take a break from gardening. You get When you are always rushing every up, wipe the sweat that formed on your forehead, and hydrate.

Amidst worldwide economic interruptions, I found myself in a weird situation where I was grateful for my job, and at the same time, I wanted a career break. I was exhausted physically, mentally, and emotionally.

At the beginning of the pandemic, it felt too much to ask for a little break lest there is no job waiting for you when Gardening, in all its trial-and-error glory, has proven to be a you come back after a profound learning experience

day – from one place to another or one task to another– you do not notice the beauty around you.

I can recall days, months, and years that seemed to pass by in a blur. I can’t turn back the hands of time, but I can learn from those.

Appreciating growth. Progress is progress no matter how small. I knew very little about gardening when I started hauling plant after plant into my balcony.

In my mind, I remember my late Father throwing a bunch of tomato seeds somewhere at the back of our property and then some days later, I would witness the growing plant.

When I started planting, it felt like I had little progress. I felt like a failure.

There I was, out of a job, and could not even grow a plant. One day, the Golden Shower that I thought had died because of lack of water, started to show some signs of life. Small leaves started to grow from each branch, and I remember how glad I was. Within weeks it gave me lovely little flowers that lifted my mood.

Embracing lack of control. Even if I give it the best care, a plant that is not its a suitable environment will not thrive. I was given a Bird’s Nest plant and for more than a year I took care of it, but it wouldn’t flourish. I decided to give it to someone who can take better care of it in a more suitable environment. Other times, a plant may seem healthy yet days of unfavorable weather may cause it to wither and die. I am still learning and re-learning the art of letting go.

There are still lessons this gardening has been teaching me.

Gardening has been keeping my feet planted on the ground (pun intended). It’s a journey, and I keep learning. In a gist, it has been fulfilling and enriching my life in ways that I could only begin to comprehend now. There will be more changes, good and not-so-good. I can only hope to remember all I have learned from this hobby I have come to love.

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