Manila Standard - 2023 December 14 - Thursday

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Munti suspends classes, colleges go online as PISTON strike begins

By Rio N. Araja and Joel E. Zurbano to online classes in their official social THE city government of Muntinlupa suspended face-to-face classes in public schools (Daycare to Grade 12) on Thursday, Dec. 14 due to a transport strike that begins today.

Other local government units in Metro Manila and across the country were expected to follow suit.

Major colleges in the National Capital Region — including the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) -also announced shifts to online classes to head off the weekend strike.

The Pagkakaisa ng Samahan ng Mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON) announced a transport strike for Dec. 14 and 15 to protest the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines, National University, University of Santo Tomas, and De La Salle University also announced shifts

media accounts.

However, UPD said faculty members can consult their students if they choose to conduct scheduled activities face-to-face with “appropriate consideration” to students.

Meanwhile, the UPD heads and personnel affected by the transport strike may also work from their homes, while a minimum number of on-site personnel are allowed to conduct expected inperson transactions.

Moreover, the UP Health Service, UPD Police, Public Safety and Security Office, Special Services Brigade, and Campus Maintenance Office were required to report for on-site work.

On the eve of the PISTON transport strike, the Department of Transportation said all systems are go for the PUVMP, with Secretary Jaime Bautista saying that jeepney operators who have not consolidated by Dec. 31 will lose their franchise.

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VOL. XXXVII • NO. 302 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023

‘Finish water work

by April next year’ PBBM wants El Nino defense in place

By Charles Dantes and Maricel V. Cruz

P

RESIDENT Marcos on Wednesday said he has ordered the concerned government agencies to complete waterrelated projects by April 2024 in preparation for the impact of the El Niño phenomenon.

EXCAVATOR ARCH. President Marcos (second from left) leads the turnover of 141 units of wheeled excavators to the field office of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone in Olongapo City, Zambales on Wednesday. Alfred Frias/PCO Photo

Double whammy of water rate, MRT fare hikes locked in for next year MWSS: Increase up to P7.87/cu.m. OK

Bautista: Train fare to rise by Q1 2024

By Rio N. Araja

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) has approved the rate increases of its two water concessionaires to take effect next year.

MWSS Regulatory Office chief Patrick Lester Ty announced the adjustments ranging from P6.41 to P7.87 per cubic meter starting January 2024 because of inflation and the spending program of the west zone franchisee Next page

METRO Rail Transit 3 (MRT-3) fares will increase by the first quarter of 2024, the head of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced on Wednesday.

“Let’s talk about it next year. I understand it will be presented to the LRTA (Light Rail Transit Administration) board. It would not be difficult for them (commuters) if we don’t impose it yet. Most probably first Next page

Senators still cool to ‘Cha-cha’; Gonzales defends House push

By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Maricel V. Cruz SENATORS have remain cold to proposals to amend the 1987 Constitution, according to Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III. Pimentel noted that 2024 “is the better time to do this so that if the Constitution won’t be changed by that year,

‘CANCEL ALL DEALS, TALKS WITH CHINA’ NEWS / A2

SC TO INVESTIGATE DOCTOR’S DEATH NEWS / A2

TEVES FACING NEW TERRORISM RAPS NEWS / A3

During the inauguration of the Balbalungao Small Reservoir Irrigation Project (BSRIP) in Lupao, Nueva Ecija, Mr. Marcos noted the urgency to make sure the country is ready for the possible effects of El Niño, including reduced rainfall and drought.

“We must be prepared to counter these effects, which may last until the second quarter of 2024. So, we remind once again the DA (Department of Agriculture) and the NIA (National Irrigation Administration) to immediately complete the construction of irrigation facilities, as well as other supporting structures based on the needs of our farmers,” Mr. Marcos said.

“I set a deadline for our departments, encouraging them to consider what can be accomplished by April of next year.

This way, by May, if the dry spell persists and there is still no rain, we will have sufficient water supply in place,” the President said in Filipino.

Vital projects, such as the BSRIP, will help address the effects of El Niño, which may cause a shortage of water and power supply, he said.

The BSRIP, boasting an expansive 840-hectare service area, is designed to foster sustainable development for the benefit of 562 farmers and their families residing in Balbalungao, San Next page

MINING FIRM’S 120TH. Postmaster

General Luis D. Carlos (left) and Speaker Martin Romualdez unveil the commemorative stamp for Benguet Corp.’s 120th anniversary at the Ayala Museum in Makati City on Tuesday. Also attending the gala were former Chamber of Mines and Benguet Corp. president Philip Romualdez, company chairman Dr. Bernardo Villegas, and book author Edda Villalina Henson (inset photos).

Manny Palmero

new senators would come in the next year.”

He maintained that voting on the issue should be done separately by both houses of Congress.

While Constitutional Convention is more expensive, “it is the better mode of changing our Constitution,” Pimentel stressed.

Next page

Manila votes for Gaza war halt at UNGA

By Rey Requejo and Macon Ramos-Araneta THE Philippines has voted in favor of a United Nations General Assembly resolution demanding for immediate ceasefire in war-torn Gaza, a reversal of its abstention months ago of a resolution calling for a “humanitarian truce” between Israel and the terrorist group Hamas, the Department of Foreign Affairs said on Wednesday.

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New book marks Benguet Corp.’s 120 years of ‘moving mountains’

By Patricia Taculao HISTORY plays a significant role in everyone’s lives. It allows societies to remember their victories and learn from their mistakes, and proves that we can all learn a thing or two from

our past.

As Benguet Corporation, the oldest mining company in the Philippines, celebrates its 120th anniversary, it aptly launched a new book titled “Moving Mountains, Making History: The BenNext page

NEWS

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

‘Cancel all deals, talks with China’

By Vince Lopez, Rey Requejo, and Maricel V. Cruz

T

HE Philippines should cancel oil exploration deals and ongoing negotiations with China in response to its recent harassment of Filipino ships in the West Philippine Sea, a maritime law expert said Wednesday.

In a TV interview, Prof. Jay Batongbacal, director of the Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea of the UP Law Center, said if China tries to prevent the Philippines from getting another service contract in Reed Bank next year, it should no longer deal with them when it comes to oil exploration.

He said while this might affect the economy, it is a viable option against further abuse and disrespect that puts Filipino lives in danger.

The country, he added, is in a position to retaliate as China is “out of line.”

“If we do that, we can show that first, to our countrymen, we can take action

and second, in a way China will have a problem because they are expecting these contracts to make profits from us.

So if we deny them that, it’s okay,” he said in Filipino.

Meanwhile, Japan reiterated its serious concern over China’s actions in the South China Sea, including recent dangerous water cannon incidents that caused a collision between Chinese and Filipino ships, saying it increases regional tensions.

Citing the statement issued by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs last Oct. 23, Japan said it believes that the issue concerning the South China Sea is directly related to the peace and stability of the region and

is a legitimate concern of the international community including Japan.

“Thus Japan opposes any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force as well as any actions that increase tensions in the South China Sea,” Tokyo said, in a statement released by the Japanese Embassy in the Philippines on Wednesday.

“As stated in the Japan-Philippine Joint Statement Open a New Window in February 2023, the Government of Japan concurs with the Philippines’ long-standing objections to unlawful maritime claims, militarization, coercive activities and threat or use of force in the South China Sea,” the statement said.

Don’t take jobs Speaker cites House achievements in ’23, vows more in 3rd country, OFWs advised

By Maricel V. Cruz

By Vito Barcelo THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) repeated its warning to Filipinos eyeing overseas employment against accepting jobs in a third country that is not their original choice, lest they fall victims to trafficking syndicates.

DMW officer-in-charge Hans Leo Cacdac raised this Wednesday following reports that at least 128 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) have sought assistance from the Philippine labor attaché in the United Arab Emirates.

The DMW noted that numerous employment opportunities ostensibly offered by recruiters online had already victimized hundreds of OFWs who had the misfortune of working for abusive employers this year.

Cacdac said returning or vacationing OFWs from Saudi Arabia were being lured by job offers on Facebook or TikTok about supposedly “better jobs” in other countries.

The scheme involves OFWs using their re-entry visa to go back to their original place of employment but later on accepting the job offers to a third country.

Cacdac said almost all of the OFWs who already have jobs in the Middle East eventually opt to work in a third country without knowing offhand the nature of the job.

New book...

From A1 guet Corporation Story” on Dec. 12 at the Ayala Museum in Makati.

“It’s not only the narrative of how the company charted the course through difficult and prosperous periods, but it also tells a human story of how the early founders and past managers of the company pilot and shape the business landscape based on the courage, passion, ideals and innovative spirit,” said Benguet Corporation President Lina Fernandez during the book launch.

Edda Villaluna Henson, a member of the Villaluna clan called “the Mining Royal Family of the Philippines,” authored the book. Her family’s background and affinity for the mining industry made her the ideal person to write about Benguet Corporation’s journey for over a century.

Munti...

From A1 He also said the government is ready for the transport strike.

PISTON, on the other hand, said it will push through with the two-day strike.

“The government has no clear basis to insist on the deadline. They will only worsen the suffering of the people,” the group said on its Facebook page in Filipino.

PISTON earlier said a majority of public utility jeeps and UV Express vans will not be able to ply routes after the Dec. 31 deadline.

The group’s national president, Mody Floranda, said about 60,000 drivers and 25,000 operators would join the growing ranks of the unemployed in the National Capital Region

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Wednesday tonight took pride in the record achievements of the House of Representatives this year in terms of approved bills that would sustain economic growth, create more jobs, and income opportunities and in general, make life better for the people.

In his remarks before adjourning the session of the House of Representatives for its Christmas recess, the Speaker

‘Finish...

From A1 Isidro, Salvacion, Sto. Niño, and Mapampang villages in Lupao town.

Mr. Marcos said the construction of the Balbalungao Dam signifies his administration’s commitment to developing modern infrastructure systems that would enhance the agriculture sector.

“Once fully operational, this multipurpose dam will provide irrigation for close to 1,000 hectares of agricultural land,” he said.

“The dam will generate diversified income opportunities to increase crop use, fish culture, tourism, and watershed management for environmental protection.”

Mr. Marcos also emphasized that the BSRIP would facilitate hydroelectric power generation and serve to control and mitigate flooding for communities along the river.

He also ordered the DA and the NIA to ensure the timely completion of the other facilities of the BSRIP, such as the hydropower and watershed components.

He enjoined all government agencies, local government units, and the private sector to work together

Bautista:...

From A1 quarter, next year,” DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista said in a TeleRadyo Serbisyo interview.

“It will push through. We are reviewing it, maybe next year,” Bautista earlier on told reporters, after the Transportation department deferred the fare hike due to “infirmities in complying with the requirements and procedure.”

The MRT-3 management is asking for additional P2.29 for the boarding fee and a P0.21 fare increase per kilometer.

if the government sticks to its deadline.

Bautista, however, said there is a glut of jeepneys in Metro Manila, saying 200 jeepneys were serving one five-kilometer route.

He also said some 70 percent of all PUV operators will have consolidated by the end of the year.

But PISTON said this claim was misleading because the figure is only 26 percent in Metro Manila. Among UV Express drivers, only 36 percent have consolidated in the National Capital Region, it said.

Earlier this week, President Marcos said there would be no more extension to the Dec. 31 deadline for drivers and operators to consolidate.

“We cannot let the minority cause further delays and affect the majority of the operators, banks, financial institutions, and the public at large,” Marcos said.

IN BRIEF SWS: 48% of Pinoys see life improving AT LEAST 48 percent of adult Filipinos believe that their quality of life will improve next year, while 40 percent claimed that quality of life will remain unchanged, according to the latest survey by the Social Weather Stations (SWS).

The survey released on Tuesday also showed that six percent of the respondents believe however, that their economic situation would become worse in the next 12 months.

The remaining seven percent of the respondents were clueless about the issue.

The survey’s Net Personal Optimism score is +42, classified by SWS as excellent. It is similar to the +41 Net Personal Optimism score in June 2023. Vito Barcelo

SC to examine case of Dr. Iggy Agbayani THE Supreme Court on Wednesday said it will look into the case of Benigno “Iggy” Agbayani Jr., the orthopedic surgeon who died while in detention in October.

“We will check what happened.

We can’t just say that this is what we will do. We will review it and based on the results, we may create new instructions or new rules so the same situation will not happen again,” Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo said, in a media briefing.

When asked what he meant, Gesmundo hinted out that that there may have been some lapses committed by the lawyer.

“Apparently, there was, I don’t know, there were some lapses committed by the lawyer. I think that’s the main- the root cause of the issues that came out,” Gesmundo said. Rey Requejo

said in addition to these “sterling accomplishments,” the House ratified last Monday the “most important measure that we passed this year - the General Appropriations Bill (GAB) for Fiscal Year 2024.”

“The House of Representatives considers it a core mission to utilize the national budget next year to address four major concerns: fight inflation, keep the price of rice and other basic food items at affordable levels, provide more jobs and livelihood, and expand social

services,” he said.

He said next year’s outlay includes a “revolutionary rice subsidy program” of President Marcos.

“With this new program, we seek to drive down the price of quality rice by almost half for 28 million Filipinos who are under challenging situations,” he added He pointed out the rice subsidy program would be implemented in all districts, cities and communities, from Aparri in Cagayan in the north to Jolo, Sulu in the south.

to secure the sustainability of water resources and the ecosystem that surround the reservoir.

“That integrated watershed management plan serves as your guide in monitoring, protecting, and conserving the Balbalungao watershed to prolong the land’s service lifestyle,” Mr. Marcos said.

The government, he said, aims to establish more than 275,000 hectares of new irrigation areas to restore about 80,000 of existing irrigation areas by 2028.

At the same time, the President said the El Niño Task Force has been reorganized, as part of the extensive efforts to ensure food, water, and power security amid the weather phenomenon.

“I have created under the Office of the President a Task Force El Niño.

There already exists one but we will change its structure,” Mr. Marcos said.

“I think [of] a more serious and a more extensive effort because we really have to get everybody involved to be able to prepare, to make sure we can minimize, alleviate, and adapt to climate change,” he said.

The El Niño Task Force was reconstituted in May this year, in response to Marcos’ call for a “whole-of-government” and “whole-of-nation” ap-

proach to prepare for the possible impact of El Niño.

Mr. Marcos said the country may adopt new techniques to ensure water and power security amid the El Niño phenomenon.

“We have to be very logical and rational [in] the way we distribute the water, to be able to determine which areas really need the water most,” he said.

“As we all know, when the water levels in our dams go down, then energy becomes a scarce resource. We have to be more efficient in the distribution of whatever power that we generate.”

Around 65 provinces are expected to experience drought, while six provinces may experience a dry spell by the end of May because of a “strong” El Niño, Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum said in a Palace briefing on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has approved a bill creating an entire agency to address all waterrelated problems.

Voting 254 to 3, congressmen approved on the third and final reading House Bill (HB) 9663 or the (National Water Resources Act), which creates the Department of Water Resources to establish a framework for national water resource management.

If approved, the minimum fare will go up to P16 from the current P13, while an end-to-end trip from North Avenue station to Taft Avenue station would go up to P34 from the current P28.

The MRT3 management earlier said it would re-file its petition for a fare hike this week.

The national government is currently subsidizing a significant portion of the MRT-3 fares.

DOTr Transport Assistant Secretary and MRT-3 officer-in-charge Jorjette Aquino said the MRT-3 has been operating at a loss, with the government subsidizing around P41 per passenger fare.

Aquino asserted that the last time the MRT-3 adjusted its fares was in 2015.

“We believe that this fare adjustment is on the right side of the future of the rail system. The government should be sensitive about the people’s welfare over the long-term effectiveness and sustainability of our rail system. We want to make the MRT-3 system sustainable to build more and serve more,” Aquino said.

“The comment of the LTFRB (Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board) is that the proposed adjustments are still lower than those of city buses, city bus aircons, and MPUJs,” Aquino said.

Maynilad Water Services Inc. and east zone franchisee Manila Water Co. Inc. “We did the tariff adjustments in tranches to ensure that the public will be protected and it will not be too burdensome to do it all in one go, (and) to ensure that Manila Water and Maynilad will be doing their capital expenditure rollout projects and ahead of schedule actually, hopefully,” Ty said.

“Part of the reason is we need to prepare for the El Niño (episode) that will be happening in 2024… and we have started preparing for that, and we have directed Manila Water and Maynilad to ensure that there will be no water crisis and to mitigate all the effects of El Niño next year,” he added.

Under the second tranche of the rate rebasing, Maynilad and Manila Water will raise their rates for as long as they could meet MWSS’ criteria, such as spending for programs to ensure water security.

Manila Water has been given the green light to increase the average basis charge by P6.41/cu.m. to P42.26/cu.m. in 2024 from P35.85/cu.m. this year.

The adjustment included P1.27/ cu.m. for inflation, and P5.14/cu.m. for its spending program or translated to an estimated upward adjustment of P2.96 per month for low-income lifeline customers, P34.12 for those consuming 10 cu.m. per month, P76.68 for those consuming 20 cu.m. per month, and P154.55 for those consuming 30 cu.m. per month.

Senators...

From A1

President Marcos’ “Bagong Pilipinas” theme, which also needs a new charter that should replace the 36-year-old constitution, since it was crafted during the turbulent years of the first Marcos administration, he said.

Gonzales defended the House initiatives to amend the Charter from criticisms the move has the blessing from the Executive branch.

“This is a legislative work, and that’s a different body, that’s the Executive department. I think the legislative will be the one to initiate this,” Gonzales said in defending President Marcos from criticisms he may have wanted to extend his six-year term.

The only objective of the House is to have a new Charter, the Pampanga lawmaker said.

York time). Ten voted against, including Israel and the United States, while 23 abstained.

Meanwhile, Senator Robinhood Padilla has filed a resolution urging the Senate to call for a sustained ceasefire and adherence to International humanitarian law in Gaza amid the on-going war between Israeli and Hamas forces.

Philippine Permanent Representative to the UN Antonio Lagdameo said the country continues to condemn the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks of Hamas even as he emphasized the need to adhere to International humanitarian law, especially the principles of proportionality and distinction in response to security threats.

Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker and Pampanga Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr. downplayed the Senate’s rejection of House efforts to review the Charter.

The House of Representativesinitiated Charter change jibes with

Manila...

From A1 Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo said the Philippines is among 153 member-states that voted for the resolution at the UNGA emergency special session on Tuesday (New

MWSS:...

From A1

NEWS

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023

MST.DAYDESK@GMAIL.COM

MSU in Marawi grants students concessions in wake of bombing THE Mindanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City is allowing its students to be given an incomplete grade and another semester to complete their academic requirements in the aftermath of the bombing.

MSU’s Board of Regents on Tuesday instructed the university president to implement several adjustments so their students could cope with school requirements after the suspension of classes due to the deadly bombing that killed four people and injured several others early this month.

Commission on Higher Education (CHED) chair J. Prospero de Vera III said the policy was adopted during the fourthquarter meeting of the MSU Board where President Basari Mapupuno briefed the regents on the measures adopted by the university in the aftermath of the bombing.

“As the chairperson of the MSU Board, I commend President Mapupuno and other university officials for immediately strengthening safety and security measures in the Marawi campus to bring back the confidence of

students, faculty, and employees that MSU will remain a zone of peace in the coming months,” de Vera said.

He noted that the adjustment was made for the students who were distressed and traumatized by the incident and feel that they could not continue with their studies.

Mapupuno also said MSU would send a letter of request to government institutions and organizations that have granted some of their students scholarships to ensure their status would not be affected.

Moreover, MSU will “relax the rules” for the scholarships it has granted to students.

Meanwhile, Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman has approved the funding for the creation of additional 673 permanent faculty positions in nine campuses of MSU. In a statement on Wednesday, the DBM said the approved faculty posts, which would need a total budget of PHP334.24 million, were determined and funded based on the recommended faculty-student ratio. with Vince Lopez

RESERVOIS PROJECT. President Marcos inaugurates the Balbalungao Small Reservoir Irrigation Project in a ceremony at Barangay San Isidro in Lupao, Nueva Ecija on Wednesday, also attended by Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel (center, inset) (see related story on A1).

Joey Razon and Revoli Cortez

Teves facing new raps for financing terrorism, backing terrorists—DOJ F ORMER Negros Oriental Rep. Arnie Teves is facing a new complaint before the Department of Justice for allegedly financing terrorism and providing material support to terrorists.

This is based on a copy of the subpoena sent to Teves signed last Nov. 14 but only forwarded to the media on Wednesday.

The former lawmaker was directed to attend the preliminary investigation happening today (Thursday) and on Dec. 19.

He was also directed to file a counter-affidavit during the preliminary investigation.

Teves has been designated as a terrorist and leader of an alleged armed

be in Timor Leste.

Flying out of the country in late February, Teves has yet to return to face charges lodged against him.

The government has started the process of cancelling the passport of Teves Jr., Remulla said previously.

“If you are a fugitive from justice, your right to travel is impaired basically. Teves’ passport is in the process of being cancelled,” Remulla said.

“You have a limit now on your constitutional right to travel when you are fugitive from justice and you cannot seek from a government for protection if you have a record that you are a fugitive from justice,” he added.

group in August.

The ex-solon was also tagged as the mastermind in the killing of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo, with a Manila court already issuing an arrest warrant against the former.

Last month, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said they were working to get the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) to issue a “red notice” against Teves, who is believed to

Health workers push DBM to release funds

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

Arrest warrants has already been issued against Teves for multiple murder charges in relation to the March 4, 2023 killings in Pamplona town in Negros Oriental, including Gov. Degamo.

Warrants of arrest have also been issued against Teves for the murder of three persons in 2019—former Negros Oriental board member and former National Bureau of Investigation agent Michael Dungog; Lester Bato, a body guard of Basay mayoralty candidate Cliff Cordova; and Pacito Libron, an alleged hitman associated with Teves.

Teves was also been designated as terrorist by the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC). With Rey Requejo

HEALTH workers from different public and private hospitals in Metro Manila yesterday pressed the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to hasten the release of funds for their past due COVID-19 allowances.

The funds are earmarked under Republic Act 11712 or the Public Health Emergency Benefits and Allowances for Health Care Welfare Act approved last April 27, 2022.

Earlier, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa noted that the unprogrammed funds for these allowances can be released by the DBM once the country’s tax collection improves, with the full payment expected to be completed by 2026.

But health workers asserted that this timeline is far too long, and they are losing patience in waiting.

Robert Mendoza, AHW national ing crematoriums—which are traditionally associated with president, said they are demanding the the dignified handling of end-of-life rituals—by extending immediate release of their hard-earned their commitment to societal well-being.

COVID-19 allowances no later than In return, Barbers said, any incineration or cremathis year. torium facility that would render services under the “We are upset with DBM and the measure would be given tax incentives, entitling them to Marcos administration because it can a tax credit of 10 percent but not exceeding P50,000 of immediately fund the billions of conthe taxable gross income for a period of two years. fidential funds of the president, vice “Failure or refusal to render free destruction of any president and other local agencies, but seized illegal drugs by the concerned facilities wouldCYAN be MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK it cannot promptly fund and release the a ground for the suspension, revocation, or non-renewal HEA of health workers who have been of license or permit to operate said business/es,” he said. at the forefront in fighting the deadly Barbers’ HB 9668, to be known as “Prompt Danvirus during the pandemic,” he said. gerous Drugs Destruction

Barbers proposes burning drugs immediately at crematoriums

By Maricel V. Cruz A CONGRESSIONAL leader on Wednesday filed a bill that would compel all law enforcement officers to promptly destroy all dangerous drugs seized during antidrug operations to resolve the perennial problem of drug pilferage and recycling into the illicit market.

Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, chair of the House committee on dangerous drugs and author Manila

Standard

TODAY

Republic of the Philippines COMMISSION ON AUDIT Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City

of House Bill 9668 said his measure, once enacted, would mandate all incineration facilities, including crematoriums, to render free services for the prompt destruction of all illegal substances, particularly shabu, seized during anti-drug operations.

Barbers said the lack of dedicated incineration facilities for the immediate destruction of all seized drugs had been a long-time concern since these substances are Manila temptations for pilferage and recycling if held in custody Standard for a long time by law enforcers.

TODAY At the heart of this legislative proposal, Barbers said, is the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on the part of incineration facilities, includ-

ERRATUM

RESOLUTION No.: 2023-017 Date: November 29, 2023 SUBJECT

:

Supreme Court (SC) Administrative Matter (A.M.) No. 23-0801-SC on the Additional Guidelines on the Disbursement of the Allocation for Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses of the Members of the SC under A.M. No. 23-02-1O-SC

IN THE ADVERTISEMENT OF THE INVITATION TO BID AS PUBLISHED IN THE 01 DECEMBER 2023 ISSUE OF MANILA STANDARD FOR MULTIPLE LOTS, THERE IS A NEED TO CORRECT THE (1) APPROVED BUDGET COST AND (2) TRANSACTION SCHEDULE OF LOT IX-A (SUPPLY OF POLE HARDWARE MATERIALS FOR REPLACEMENT OF ROTTEN POLES PROJECT) AND LOT IX-B (SUPPLY OF STEEL POLES FOR REPLACEMENT OF ROTTEN POLES PROJECT) IN THE INVITATION TO BID, TO WIT: INVITATION TO BID

WHEREAS, on February 28, 2023, the Supreme Court (SC) promulgated Administrative Matter (A.M.) No. 23-02-10-SC, providing guidelines on the disbursement of the allocation of Fifteen Million Pesos (P15,000,000.00) for each of its Member chargeable against the Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOO E) item of the Regular Budget of the SC under the General Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2023;

FROM • LOT

ITEM DESCRIPTION

ABC (INCLUSIVE OF VAT)

WHEREAS, on August 8, 2023, the SC issued another A.M. No. 23-08-01SC, providing additional guidelines on the disbursement of MOOE allocated to the Members of the SC;

COST OF BID DOCUMENTS (NONREFUNDABLE)

IX-A

₱ 1,761,000.00

₱ 5,000.00

WHEREAS, both SC A.M. were issued to prevent irregular, unnecessary, excessive, extravagant, and unconscionable expenditure of the MOOE funds and to ensure that the same are spent exclusively for expenses related to the official functions and daily operations of the Offices of the Members of the SC;

Supply of Pole Hardware Materials for Replacement of Rotten Poles Project

IX-B

Supply of Steel Poles for Replacement of Rotten Poles Project

₱ 5,593,250.00

₱ 10,000.00

WHEREAS, Section 2(2), Article IX-D of the 1987 Philippine Constitution vests in the Commission on Audit the exclusive authority to define the scope of its audit and examination, establish the techniques and methods required therefor, and promulgate accounting rules and regulations, including those for the prevention and disallowance of irregular, unnecessary, excessive, extravagant or unconscionable expenditures, or uses of government funds and properties; WHEREAS, upon review of the SC guidelines on the disbursement of the MOOE allocated to the Members of the SC, this Commission found the same IN ORDER. The guidelines do not substantially deviate from the accounting rules and regulations issued by this Commission, and its authority to conduct audit on the MOOE funds was not restricted nor diminished.

NOW, THEREFORE, the Commission Proper RESOLVES, as it does hereby RESOLVE, to adopt the guidelines contained in SC A.M. No. 23-08-01-SC on the Additional Guidelines on the Disbursement of the Allocation for MODE of the Members of the SC under A.M. No. 23-02-10-SC, which shall also serve as guide in the audit of MODE allocations to the Members of the SC. RESOLVED FURTHER, that the guidelines shall be subject to this Commission’s periodic review and the latter reserves its right to amend or repeal the guidelines, with prior notice to the SC.

•

2. ORMECO, INC. now invites suppliers for the following:

5. The schedule of bidding activities is as follows:

ACTIVITIES Pre-Bid Conference

SCHEDULE 11 December 2023 (Monday) at ORMECO, INC. Board Room

3:30 pm for Lot IX-A

13 December 2023 (Wednesday) at ORMECO, INC. Board Room

1:00 pm for Lot IX-B

SHOULD BE • 2. ORMECO, INC. now invites suppliers for the following: LOT

ITEM DESCRIPTION

ABC (INCLUSIVE OF VAT)

COST OF BID DOCUMENTS (NONREFUNDABLE)

IX-A

Supply of Pole Hardware Materials for Replacement of Rotten Poles Project

₱ 5,593,250.00

₱ 10,000.00

IX-B

Supply of Steel Poles for Replacement of Rotten Poles Project

₱ 1,761,000.00

₱ 5,000.00

This Resolution shall take effect after fifteen (15) days from publication in a newspaper of general circulation.

•

5. The schedule of bidding activities is as follows: ACTIVITIES

Done this 29th day of November, 2023, in Quezon City, Philippines

Pre-Bid Conference

SCHEDULE 22 December 2023 (Friday) at ORMECO, INC. Board Room

9:00 am for Lot IX-A

22 December 2023 (Friday) at ORMECO, INC. Board Room

10:30 am for Lot IX-B

To rectify the error in the Invitation to Bid, ORMECO is publishing this erratum which will form part of the Bidding Documents. The rest is the same as advertised on the 01 December 2023 issue of Manila Standard.

GAMALIEL A. CORDOBA Chairperson

Certified by: ROLAND CAFÉ PONDOC Commissioner

MARIO G. LIPANA Commissioner

SGD

ENGR. JOHN EZEKIEL M. SANTIAGO Chairperson, Bids and Awards Committee

Approved by:

SGD

HUMPHREY A. DOLOR, PECE, MBA Head of Procuring Entity (HOPE)

DAY BEFORE THE STRIKE. Traffic enforcers monitor the situation along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City on Wednesday. Transport group PISTON has announced a two-day transport strike starting today to oppose the Dec. 31 deadline for franchise consolidation and the phaseout of traditional jeepneys. Manny Palmero

Taguig starts door-to-door Xmas gift-giving to Embo area residents

By Joel E. Zurbano THE Taguig City government on Wednesday started its Pamaskong Handog (Christmas Gifts) distribution to residents in the Enlisted Men’s Barrio (Embo) areas, the villages previously under the jurisdiction of Makati City.

The distribution in Embo areas started in Barangay Rizal where senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and pregnant women received their packages conveniently at their doorsteps.

Mayor Lani Cayetano led the house-to-house distribution of the Noche Buena packages to the vulnerable groups. She empha-

sizes the importance of avoiding crowded spaces for the well-being of these groups.

“In the City of Taguig, we take this opportunity to bring happiness to every family. May it be more than the material things that the residents here in our city will receive, SGD that they see the genuine love and concern that is very important and incomparable material things,” Cayetano said.

The Pamaskong Handog distribution is a cherished annual tradition in Taguig during the Christmas season to foster togetherness, love, and joy, and celebrate the birth of Christ.

NEWS

A5

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

House approves Tatak Pinoy bill championing PH-made products

By Maricel V. Cruz

FESTIVE SHOW. Elementary students wearing colorful hats perform during the Christmas Cantata 2023 held at the Rafael Palma Elementary School in Manila on Dec. 13, 2023.

Norman Cruz

THE House of Representatives approved on third and final reading House Bill 8525, also known as the proposed “Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) Act” that seeks to promote Philippine-made products, goods, and services globally.

The House leadership said the approval reflects the collective commitment of the lower chamber to propel Filipino enterprises onto the international stage.

Speaker Martin Romualdez, one of the principal authors of the measure, underscored the legislation’s importance in boosting industrialization and full employment goals.

“The Tatak Pinoy Act is a crucial step toward transforming our economy by encouraging collaboration with the pri-

vate sector and enhancing the competitiveness of local enterprises,” he said.

“We focus strongly on our Filipino workers’ skills, creativity, and innovation. This legislation aims to support local enterprises and ensure inclusive economic growth that reaches all corners of our nation, benefiting the urban poor, subsistence farmers, indigenous communities, and our micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs),” Romualdez added.

The bill outlines a comprehensive strategy for formulating, financing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating the Tatak Pinoy Strategy (TPS), he said.

Romualdez said the initiative encourages the production of diverse, sophisticated, and high-quality Philippine-made products by local enterprises that can compete globally.

Pimentel: 2024 budget unconstitutional T “Is that compliant with the Constitution? Our Constitution states that Congress may approve the appropriations proposed by the President for the operations of the government, but it cannot increase the appropriations. Congress can maintain the appropriations or reduce the appropriations, but it cannot increase the appropriations,” the senator said.

Data from Pimentel’s office showed the final version of the 2024 General Appropriations Bill at P6.498 trillion is composed of P4.019 trillion in programmed funds, P731 billion in unprogrammed funds, and P1.748 trillion in automatic appro-

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

HE 2024 national budget ballooned to P6.498 trillion after the bicameral conference committee allocated some P450 billion in additional unprogrammed funds and made upward adjustments in other appropriations, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III said, noting that this made the final version of the budget “unconstitutional.”

Pimentel said from the proposed funds by P281 billion on top of allocatP5.7 trillion, the committee increased ing the additional P450 billion also in the original proposed unprogrammed unprogrammed funds.

priations.

Pimentel said this was not the first time the national budget has breached P6 trillion due to increases in unprogrammed funds.

“Actually, the 2023 budget is what I’d call the first P6 trillion budget – you just did not see the unprogrammed funds.

So 2024 will be the second P6 trillion budget,” he said.

Pimentel said the P450 billion worth of projects or programs or activities covered by the unprogrammed appropriations were not proposed by the executive branch.

“Where did those come from? What happened now is that Congress gave the

More PDP-Laban lawmakers bolt party, join Lakas-CMD

By Maricel V. Cruz THE exodus of members from the erstwhile ruling Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) continued on Wednesday as two more lawmakers left their former political party to join the Lakas Christian-Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD).

Another lawmaker from the National Unity Party (NUP) also joined Lakas-CMD, increasing the party’s numbers in the House of Representatives to 92.

Reps. Divine Grace Yu (Zamboanga del Sur, First District) and Mohamad Khalid Q. Dimaporo (Lanao del Norte, First District), both formerly of PDP-Laban, and Ma. Cynthia Chan (Lapu-Lapu City, Lone District) of NUP yesterday took their oath as members of Lakas-CMD, along with 18 mayors from Zamboanga del Sur. Speaker Martin Romualdez, LakasCMD president, said the party is entering a new age of political unity, not only in the House of Representatives

MMDA, Coast Guard to improve Pasig River ferry service

By Joel E. Zurbano THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and the Philippine Coast Guard have started implementing a program to improve the Pasig River Ferry Service (PRFS), which serves as an alternative mode of transportation for commuters.

MMDA and PCG officials led by Public Safety Office chief Crisanto Saruca Jr. and Coast Guard Rear Admiral Hostillo Arturo Cornelio committed to enhancing sea transport and revitalizing the Pasig River.

“We are thankful to the PCG for this collaboration. We will have knowledge, assets, and resource-sharing to provide better and improved river ferry service for our commuters as an alternative mode of transportation,” said Saruca.

Under the memorandum of agreement the two agencies recently signed, the MMDA shall handle all administrative and office matters of the ferry service.

It shall also utilize its rescue boats for disaster-related activities pursuant to its public safety mandate for Metro Manila commuters.

The Coast Guard will provide personnel to man the ferry terminals and its boats to intensify maritime security and maritime safety for the riding public, especially this holiday season.

GROWING STRENGTH. Speaker Martin Romualdez administers the

oath to Reps. Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo, (Lanao del Norte, First District), Divine Grace Yu (Zamboanga del Sur, First District) and Ma. Cynthia Chan (Lapu-Lapu City, Lone District) as members of Lakas-CMD. Ver Noveno

but in the whole country as well.

“Our shared ideals of service to the people and being responsive to the needs of the country unite us all. Our commitment to support President Mar-

cos Jr. and his legislative agenda also binds us,” Romualdez said.

“Let us continue working for the welfare of the Filipino people, for the growth of the Philippine economy, and

for the protection of the sovereignty of our country. Let us all demonstrate our love for the country as one party,” he added.

The oathtaking of the three new members of Lakas-CMD followed that of Reps. Richard Kho, Olga Kho, and Wilton Kho—all representatives of Masbate— two weeks ago.

Before that,10 former PDP-Laban officials and members bolted from their party to join Lakas-CMD, namely Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr., Pampanga Rep. Carmelo Lazatin II, Siquijor Rep. Zaldy Villa, Parañaque City 1st District Rep. Edwin Olivares, Pasay City Lone District Rep. Antonino Calixto, Zamboanga del Norte 2nd District Rep. Glona Labadlabad, Cebu 2nd District Rep. Eduardo Roa Rama Jr., Camarines Norte 2nd District Rep. Rosemarie Conejos Panotes, Agusan del Norte 2nd District Rep. Dale Corvera, and Caloocan City 2nd District Rep. Mary Mitzi Cajayon-Uy.

Solon: Probe Transpac’s failure to deliver DepEd materials A MILITANT lawmaker on Wednesday urged the House of Representatives to probe allegations that Transpac Cargo Logistics Inc. is holding hostage billions worth of learning materials of the Department of Education.

“This should be investigated immediately especially since there are already initial findings in the 2022 Annual Audit Report that several boxes of school supplies of DepEd were not delivered because of their supplier, Transpac,” Deputy Minority Leader and ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro said.

“These supplies were procured using public funds. This must not happen again. If they are not punished or blacklisted, they will just repeat this and our teachers and learners will be put at a disadvantage again,” she added.

House Resolution 1516 noted that the Education department has already filed a civil case to retrieve the earning materials that Transpac allegedly refused to release.

The resolution also noted that it was under then Education Secretary Leonor Briones of the Duterte administration that DepEd entered into a

P667-million logistics agreement with Transpac.

The implementation of the agreement, however, overlapped with the current administration, with Vice President Sara Duterte at the helm of DepEd. In May, the Makabayan bloc also filed a resolution to probe the sale of laptops meant for public school teachers in surplus shops in Cebu and Rizal provinces.

The Makabayan lawmakers said the sale of the laptops was connected to DepEd’s contract with Transpac, a logistics company in Las Piñas.

executive branch the authority to spend an amount even greater than what is asked by the executive branch. It’s as simple as that – unconstitutional,” he said.

Pimentel, a lawyer, said this can be questioned before the Supreme Court.

For his part, Senator Francis Escudero urged economic managers to increase the gross domestic product to maintain the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio at a manageable level.

Escudero said during the six years of the Duterte administration and the first six months of President Marcos’ term, the Philippines has recorded some P13.6-trillion debt.

ASG member arrested in Lamitan City AN ABU Sayyaf Group member wanted for illegal possession of firearms was arrested by operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Basilan province.

CIDG chief Maj. Gen. Romeo Caramat yesterday said the suspect, 31-year-old Gerry Mapula Abing, was nabbed in Barangay Malo-ong San Jose in Lamitan City on Tuesday.

The suspect has a standing arrest warrant for violations of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Law and Republic Act 9516 (Illegal Possession of Explosives) issued by the Isabela City, Basilan Regional Trial Court.

Caramat said the suspect is a member of the terrorist group’s wing under slain leader Furuji Indama.

Abing allegedly took part in the kidnapping of an American woman Gerfa Yeatts Lunsmann and her son Kevin in Zamboanga City on July 12, 2011.

Seized from the suspect during the arrest were a cal. 45 pistol, a magazine, six live ammunition, a hand grenade and a black sling bag.

Caramat said Abing was brought to the CIDG Basilan Provincial Field Unit for appropriate documentation and proper disposition.

NCRPO program focuses on mental, physical well-being of police officers

BUSTED PIPE. Maintenance workers from the Maynilad Water Services Inc. conduct an emergency repair operation on a busted main pipe along Legarda Street in Manila on Dec. 13, 2023. Norman Cruz

THE National Capital Region Police Office has launched the “Oplan Bantay Kalusugan” to safeguard the health of police officers and ensure they are physically and mentally equipped to handle the demands of work.

The program, aligned with the NCRPO’s seven-point agenda, has six core pillars: prioritizing officers’ wellbeing, tying officer health to efficient law enforcement, building public trust through healthy officers, implementing economic strategies to minimize healthcare costs, creating a health-centric work environment, and strengthening safety protocols.

The initiative will also address con-

cerns about overweight and obesity, which affect operational efficiency and well-being of police officers.

The NCRPO, under the leadership of Director Maj. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., is focused on lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and physical activity to achieve a normal body mass index and prepare officers for their duties.

The plan will also establish regulatory frameworks and procedural guidelines for administering health and physical well-being initiatives, adhering to continuous weight standards for general qualifications for appointment within the Philippine National Police.

Joel E. Zurbano

A6

OPINION

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023

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

EDITORIAL

How serious is the terror threat in Mindanao?

So I See

Lito Banayo

Baptism of fire THIS writer congratulates the new Secretary of Agriculture on his swift confirmation by our legislators. A hard-nosed, street-smart businessman can indeed be the right helmsman for the most troubled department of this government.

How he is able to bring in the right men and women to help him clear the cobwebs and retire the dinosaurs in the long demoralized multi-agency department, while motivating the quiet but dedicated workers who have labored assiduously despite a succession of failed leadership, will mark either success or failure in this great challenge of his life.

Immediately after the president announced his appointment, Kiko (as he is fondly called by friends) was assailed by scheming insiders as a college drop-out, contrary to what his CV claimed.

Also, many doubted that a fishing magnate can relate to land-based fundamentals in rice, corn, vegetables, fruits, and various types of livestock.

—“—

Even NEDA wants tariffs lowered on so many food products, knowing that the supply problem will go beyond this year and well into all of 2024

But he weathered all that nastiness, and from his early pronouncements, we glean promise of change in an otherwise ossified department where even basics such as production data are fudged.

As he embarks on this journey, his first in the byzantine corridors of government, he will be confronted by a multiplicity of problems on food security.

Poultry farmers are up in arms now that ex-farm prices are selling low, even as wet market retailers try to cash in on the holiday market.

Their usual suspect: over-importation of chicken parts, sold to big food chains where a ‘noche buena’ of fried chicken brings joy to an impoverished family who do not even know what chicken ‘galantina’ or ‘relleno’ served in the tables of the ancien riche is.

Hog growers will also protest at a time when we have not vanquished ASF, when a flood of frozen pork is dumped into our country by traders because depressed consumer appetite in pork-loving China is profitable if exported.

Vegetable and fruit growers are groaning at a spate of low prices in this supposed-to-be season of joy, dumping their tomatoes and other produce because transporting them to the markets will be a losing proposition as the usual middlemen refuse to touch them.

Never mind onions -- their prices should not reach the stars next year, as their monopolist seems to be lying low, afraid of getting the ire of the Speaker once more.

But the real baptism of fire for Sec. Kiko will be rice. Yes, rice.

DA senior officials kept assuring the people that once the main palay harvest comes in, barring any typhoons, we will have a bounty of 20 million tons of palay.

The typhoons did not come, yet these DA officials have kept eerily silent on their fatuous claim which this writer disputed in several previous columns. Farm-gate palay prices exceeded 30 pesos a kilo, which means retail prices at 60 pesos per.

And no matter how the BSP tries to tame inflation by upping the interest rate, a monetary tool that affects industry more than our primitive agricultural market, supply cannot be increased enough to meet the inelastic demand.

Even NEDA wants tariffs lowered on so many food products, knowing the supply problem will go beyond this year and well into all of 2024.

Industry stakeholders have publicly stated we need to import, not just the 295,000 ‘best efforts’ purchase of poor quality rice from selective India, but at least 500,000 metric tons to stem the present 60 pesos and rising reality, even past the season of joy.

And as El Nino will result in parched fields which means lower expected harvests in summer 2024, Sec. Kiko’s headache could turn to nightmare.

Imports have become scarce and more expensive if at all, gradually rising to the 630 to 700 dollar level, and NFA cannot help, as the RTL has prohibited it from being a player in the import trade, while it cannot match the private traders in domestic purchases.

Because his predecessor hemmed and hawed in May till July upon the advice of his uber-optimistic and over-promising senior officials, the new secretary is now faced with a lose-lose situation.

Indonesia has beaten us to the draw, its Bulog (their NFA) and licensed privates having practically cornered the thin ASEAN supply, and still increasing their inventory to ensure rice for its 280 million population.

The cross-border trade between China and Vietnam has also been quite hefty, as China will never countenance any food inflation, with 1.4 billion mouths to feed, plus a parasitic North Korea to help.

How will our new secretary counter this baptism of fire?

His policy pronouncements thus far have been well-received, but the results (assuming his sluggish bureaucracy will implement the programs effectively), will be felt in the medium-term, not in the immediate future.

Production is not an overnight effort.

He is caught between a rock and a hard place, but we are hopeful his street smarts, coupled with his proximity to the president, will bring enough common sense into the department to achieve optimum results.

We wish him all the best.

Citizen Barok

Louis ‘Barok’ Biraogo

Bold step towards progress IN A groundbreaking move, Speaker Martin Romualdez has announced the House of Representatives’ intention to push for amendments to the 1987 Constitution in 2024.

This visionary proposal aims to address the pressing need for a Constitution more attuned, sensitive, and responsive to the current times.

Romualdez’s focus on economic provisions signals a strategic approach to propel the nation forward.

Romualdez, in a recent Christmas gettogether with House media, emphasized the timeliness of revisiting the Constitution, citing the House’s completion of priority legislation.

The proposed amendments, particularly centered on economic provisions, reflect a commitment to fostering a more dynamic and competitive national economy.

The move aligns with the broader objective of transforming the nation’s economic landscape.

One notable aspect of Romualdez’s proposal is the exploration of options that bypass the Senate, where previous attempts at charter change have faltered.

The consideration of a people’s initiative to determine whether congressmen and senators vote together or separately on Constitutional amendments is a strategic move to overcome past impasses.

This innovative approach empowers the electorate to directly influence the amendment process, ensuring a more inclusive and democratic decision-making mechanism.

Romualdez’s call for a Constitutional convention of elected delegates, a people’s initiative, or even senators and congressmen themselves as a constituent assembly reflects a willingness to explore diverse avenues for success.

The flexibility in approach demonstrates a commitment to finding a path forward that garners support and ensures a comprehensive and well-received constitutional amendment.

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W

ITH the Islamic State already claiming responsibility for the deadly bombing at the Mindanao State University in Marawi City on Dec 2, authorities should move decisively to arrest the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

Investigators believe the bombing was the handiwork of the Dawlah IslamiyahMaute Group that operates in Lanao del Sur. If this suspicion is validated by the arrest of the perpetrators, then the government would do well to adopt a take-noprisoners approach to end terrorist threat once and for all.

Another group now allied with the Islamic State is the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), a breakaway group of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

With an estimated 3,000 members after they severed ties with the MILF, and intent on pursuing their goal of a separate state through armed struggle, they represent a potent threat to peace and order in

Duty Calls

southern Philippines.

Every now and then the military and the police are still able to arrest probably inactive Abu Sayyaf members involved in atrocities many years ago.

—“—

As a peace and order problem, terrorism requires the military and the police to take a mailed-fist approach to dismantle their organizational structure and logistical network

We don’t really know if the Abu Sayyaf is still able to recruit members at this point, but poverty and social injustice, if not the lure of easy money from ransom payments, could still draw young Muslims to its fold.

How to stop terrorism in Mindanao?

There are no hard and fast answers to

Florencio Fianza

WITH the latest ramming of one of our supply ships, China continues to show it is able to do whatever it pleases in the West Philippine Sea regardless of anything we do.

The additional EDCA sites and joint patrols do not seem to be having any effect.

This is because of the permanent presence of Chinese military assets in the WPS. Just look at the response of China in our last joint patrol with the US Air Force and Navy.

In a classic case of gaslighting, China accused us of enlisting the aid of a foreign country to create trouble in the West Philippine Sea. China keeps on insisting its territorial claims in the SCS is supported by law and history.

By what law and historical fact, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson did not say.

Without any international legal basis to stand on, China wants the world to believe it is only responding to these “troublemakers.”

What a lie.

What is China doing 1,000 kms away from its nearest territory?

Fortunately, China has zero legal credibility with regard to the WPS issue except the force of the barrel of its gun.

What China really wants is for the small and powerless countries in the region to simply keep quiet and acquiesce to what it is doing.

Instead of acting responsibly befitting its position as an ascendant power by showing that its system is far better than the one it wants to replace, it is using brute force to get what it wants.

With China’s continued aggressive

—“—

Romualdez’s emphasis on economic provisions aligns with a vision to empower lawmakers to regulate foreign investments

Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Dong Gonzales highlighted the urgency of the matter, expressing the House’s intent to tackle Constitutional amendments before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s next State of the Nation Address.

This ambitious timeline underscores

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

a complex problem arising from history and longstanding social divisions.

As a peace and order problem, terrorism requires the military and the police to take a mailed-fist approach to dismantle their organizational structure and logistical network.

But it is also a political and social problem that requires government interventions at the national and local levels.

National government agencies such as those involved in agriculture, trade and industry, labor and social work and development should actively take part in antipoverty programs in the poorest regions in Mindanao. After all, poverty breeds discontent and rebellion.

The government has succeeded in forging peace agreements with the two biggest separatist movements in Mindanao, namely the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the MILF. They can help convince those recruited by terrorist groups to renounce violence and go back to the social mainstream.

What is important is for the government to boost economic growth to reduce social inequality, and to deliver vital social services such as education and health to poor communities in southern Philippines.

This will deprive terrorist groups of fertile ground for them to take root and spread their ideology of hate and bloodshed.

Something to think about

actions and the Armed Forces admitting there is not much it can do about the swarms of militia ships, it may be time to rethink our position.

In our own way, we are feverishly enhancing our external defense capabilities but no matter what we will achieve, we will never match the mighty Chinese Navy, Air Force, Army and Coast Guard.

We must, however, continue enhancing our defense capability to give us a semblance of a fighting chance to defend our country no matter how bad the odds are if it becomes necessary.

One option available for us if China continues to behave and act the way it is doing is perhaps to tinker with our existing defense agreements with the United States to see if we can add more teeth to the alliance.

Doing so, however, may cost the country dearly like for instance the US asking their military assets here can be used to defend Taiwan if attacked by China which some quarters may be unwilling to pay.

If we look at Japan and South Korea which are also treaty allies of the United States, the two countries unlike us have permanent basing agreements with the US. We, however, only allow rotational basing rights with no permanent stationing of military personnel. There are tens of thousands of US military personnel in both countries that could respond immediately in case of any emergency which cannot be done in our case.

If we conduct joint patrols, US naval ships will have to come from Japan, Guam or Hawaii since there are no US Naval ships permanently stationed here.

As the most recent ramming have shown, there were no US naval ships or air assets based in the country that could have provided some covering assistance and the Chinese know this.

Permanent basing, however, is not only allowed by the Constitution but is also a very controversial topic.

But unless we can match China’s naval strength ship by ship, or China suddenly starts abiding by international law which is highly unlikely, our leaders should start thinking of new ideas.

Allowing permanent US bases to operate like it used to be is no longer a prevailing practice.

The South Korean Armed Forces actually have something like a combined command set-up or integration with the US forces in that country.

Perhaps we can study that arrangement to see if it can work for us.

Clearly, the current status quo as the WPS Task Force said needs to change.

And since the government is doing a lot of studies, maybe the permanent basing issue can be included.

the House’s dedication to swift and decisive action in pursuit of a “Bagong Konstitusyon ng Bagong Pilipinas” (New Constitution for a New Philippines).

Gonzales’ resolution to convene a constituent assembly includes proposals for term extensions and adjustments for congressmen, local officials, the president, and the vice president.

While these changes aim to streamline governance, careful consideration and public discourse are crucial to ensure that any amendments align with the broader principles of democracy and good governance.

Romualdez’s emphasis on economic provisions aligns with a vision to empower lawmakers to regulate foreign investments.

By lifting restrictive provisions, the House aims to position the Philippines as a more attractive destination for foreign investments, fostering economic growth and job creation.

It’s crucial to note Romualdez’s assertion that these initiatives are not at the behest of President Marcos, highlighting the autonomy of the legislative branch.

This distinction reinforces the House’s commitment to these Constitutional changes as a proactive response to economic challenges rather than a politically motivated agenda.

Romualdez’s proposal for Constitutional amendments is a commendable and timely initiative.

By prioritizing economic provisions, exploring innovative approaches, and demonstrating flexibility in the amendment process, the House of Representatives is poised to usher in a new era for the Philippines—a Bagong Pilipinas guided by a Bagong Konstitusyon.

As the nation looks ahead to 2024, the prospect of Constitutional change brings with it the promise of a more prosperous and resilient future.

—“—

China has zero legal credibility with regard to the WPS issue except the force of the barrel of its gun

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

WORLD

A7 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Dubai summit adopts world-first D ‘transition’ away from fossil fuels

UBAI, United Arab Emirates —Nearly 200 nations meeting in Dubai on Wednesday approved a first-ever call for the world to transition away from fossil fuels, the top culprit of climate change behind a planetary crisis.

Dozens injured in missile hits on capital Kyiv KYIV, Ukraine—Debris from Russian missiles shot down by Ukrainian air defences damaged a hospital and residential building in the capital on Wednesday, injuring at least 50 people, city authorities said.

The attack happened as President Volodymyr Zelensky was outside the country on a visit to Washington, where President Joe Biden warned that Russia was banking on the United States abandoning Ukraine.

It marks one of the biggest number of injured in the capital in months.

Sergiy Popko, head of the city’s military administration, said there were 51 people injured, including six children.

He said there were reports of a dozen cases of falling missile debris, including from the Desnyansky district where 17 residents, including seven children, were evacuated from a building on fire.

The Ukrainian air force said that Russia launched an assault at 3:00 am (0100 GMT) and sent ten missiles towards Kyiv which were shot down.

An AFP journalist in the city heard several explosions and air raid sirens sounding.

City mayor Vitali Klitschko said an apartment building in the Dniprovsky district was damaged, forcing the evacuation of 15 residents, including four children and two disabled people. AFP

CLIMATE DEAL. Climate activists attend a protest against fossil fuels during the United Nations Climate Change Conference COP28 in Dubai on Tuesday. While the document does not mention the ‘phase-out’ demanded by Western countries and low-lying island nations most vulnerable to rising seas and tropical storms, the language is stronger than a previous draft that was roundly rejected. AFP

Biden warns Netanyahu risks losing support for war WASHINGTON, DC—US President Joe Biden warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Tuesday (Wednesaday in Manila) that the country risked losing global support for its war against Hamas because of its “indiscriminate” bombing of Gaza.

In his most blunt remarks since the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Hamas, which provoked the current conflict, Biden told donors that Netanyahu needed to “change” his stance on a two-state solution for the Palestinians.

Netanyahu meanwhile said there was “disagreement” with Biden over how a post-conflict Gaza would be governed, reflecting a rare rift after weeks in which the US leader has strongly backed Israel.

Biden told a campaign event in Washington that Israel had “most of the world supporting it” after the Hamas attacks, in which Israel tallied 1,200 deaths, mostly civilians.

Hundreds were also taken hostage.

“But they’re starting to lose that sup-

port by the indiscriminate bombing that takes place,” Biden said.

The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza said Tuesday that more than 18,400 people—also mostly civilians —had been killed in Israel’s retaliatory bombardment of the coastal territory.

Biden had previously refrained from describing Israeli bombing as “indiscriminate.”

And speaking later Tuesday at a news conference, Biden toned down his comments somewhat. AFP

After 13 days of talks and another sleepless night in a country built on oil wealth, the Emirati leadership of the COP28 summit banged a gavel to signal the world had reached consensus.

“You did step up, you showed flexibility, you put common interest ahead of self-interest,” said COP28 president Sultan Al Jaber, whose role as head of the United Arab Emirates’ national oil company raised suspicion among many environmentalists.

The United Arab Emirates, he said, was “rightly proud” of its role in bringing “transformational change” to the planet.

“The world needed to find a new way. And by following our North Star, we have found that new path,” he said to applause, referring to the goal of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Jaber hours earlier released a draft of the agreement aiming to bring onboard countries from islands fearing extinction to Saudi Arabia, which has led the charge to keep exporting its oil.

Toughening language from an earlier draft that was roundly denounced, the agreement calls for “transitioning away from fossil fuels in energy systems, in a just, orderly and equitable manner, accelerating action in this critical decade, so as to achieve net zero by 2050 in keeping with the science.”

It marked the first mention of all fossil fuels in 28 years of climate summits.

“For the first time in 30 years, we might now reach the beginning of the end of fossil fuels,” EU climate chief Wopke Hoekstra said before heading into the plenary session. AFP

BUSINESS

Vivant Energy secures P2.75-b Metrobank loan

By Alena Mae S. Flores

IVANT Energy Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Vivant Corp., said Wednesday it signed a fiveyear term loan facility with Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company for P2.75 billion.

V

Vivant said in a disclosure to the projects and other capital expenditure Philippine Stock Exchange Vivant En- requirements. ergy would use the loan to partially fiVivant Energy also signed a five-year nance investments in power generation term loan facility with BDO Unibank

Inc. for up to P3.5 billion last week to fund its power projects.

Vivant announced in June that Vivant Energy was committed to playing a meaningful role in energy transformation and accelerating growth and improvement of power services in the country.

Vivant president Emil Andre Garcia said the company was looking at wind and solar technologies to contribute to surpassing the company’s renewable

energy (RE) targets.

Garcia cited Vivant’s recent acquisition of San Ildefonso Alternative Manila Energy Corp.Standard which would develop a TODAY 22-megawatt solar power plant in Bulacan province.

Another fully-owned subsidiary, COREnergy, contributes to the RE target by growing its rooftop solar business.

COREnergy, a retail company that offers total energy solutions to commer-

METROBANK’S AWARD.

The Fund Managers’ Association of the Philippines (FMAP) recognizes Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company (Metrobank) as one of the 2023 Best Fixed Income Houses in the country during FMAP’s 23rd Annual Awards Night. Attending the event are (from left) FMAP board of senior advisor Joy Tuplano, Metrobank corporate and institutional sales division head Kael Pasimio, First Metro Asset Management Inc. president Karen Roa, Metrobank deputy head of investments Cristina Gabaldon and First Metro Investment Corp. head of institutional sales department Peter Bautista.

PH stock market, peso slide ahead of interest actions

By Jenniffer B. Austria PHILIPPINE stocks ended in the red Wednesday as investors await the policy actions of the US Federal Reserve and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas on interest rates.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index dropped 36.65 points, or 0.56 percent, to close at 6,255.74, while the broader all-shares index slipped 14.32 points, or 0.43 percent, to settle at 3,399.14.

Philstocks Financial Inc. research analyst Claire Alviar said that aside from the interest rate decision, investors also wanted to know the outlook of the Fed and the BSP on inflation rate and the timing of monetary easing.

Foreign investors were net sellers for the day

by P280.5 million, while value turnover stood at P2.84 billion.

The peso slipped to 56.055 against the US dollar Wednesday from 55.57 Tuesday ahead of the monetary policy meetings.

Meanwhile, Asian markets were mixed Wednesday after an unremarkable US inflation report tempered expectations for an interest rate cut early next year, with attention moving to the Federal Reserve’s policy statement later in the day.

All three indexes on Wall Street ended positively—with the S&P 500 at a near threeyear high—following news that consumer prices slowed marginally last month, suggesting the central bank is on course in its fight against inflation. With AFP

(MS-DEC. 8 & 12, 2023)

cial and industrial establishments, aims to add 18 MW of solar rooftop generation capacity in 2023.

Vivant Energy’s acquisition of the shareholding of Gigawatt Power Inc. in several power generation facilities also supports the group’s commitment to contributing to the social and economic development in the countryside by providing stable and reliable power primarily in SPUG or off-grid areas.

BUSINESS

A8

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023

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

PH office space demand grows 8% to 1.07m sq. m.

By Jenniffer B. Austria OFFICE space demand grew 8 percent in 2023 to 1.07 million square meters (sq. m.) on sustained expansion of the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry, according to Leechiu Property Consultants (LPC).

LPC director for commercial leasing Mikko Barranda said in a news briefing Wednesday the BPO sector remained the primary driver of demand for office leasing despite the current hybrid set-up.

The sector accounted for 450,000 sq. m. of demand as BPO firms continued to expand operations and hire more employees.

LPC said demand from Philippine

offshore gaming operators (POGOs) remained positive, reaching 185,000 sq. m., most of which were in the Manila Bay Area in the cities of Paranaque and Pasay.

The figure, however, represented only 17 percent of total demand in 2023, down from the landmark years of 2018 and 2019.

LPC also noted a pick-up in demand from traditional offices, with deals averaging 500 to 1,000 sq. m .

“This means that there are new companies coming in the market,” Barranda said.

LPC expects demand to remain strong in 2024, as 520,000 sq. m. of current live requirements are expected to extend into the first half.

LENDING PARTNERS. SB Finance, a joint venture between Security Bank Corp. and financial institution Krungsri of Thailand signs a strategic partnership with UBX, an open finance platform and digital solutions provider, to offer more loan options to Filipinos. Signing the agreement are (from left) UBX president and chief executive John Januszczak, SB Finance president and chief executive Abigail Dans-Casanova and SB Finance sales and distribution head Michael Albert Rallonza.

Gov’t keeps low end of 2-year growth target

By Julito G. Rada

T

HE government may adjust the high end of the growth target range of 6.5 percent to 8 percent in the next two years amid the domestic and global uncertainties, National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said Wednesday.

Balisacan said in a yearend briefing, recovery of different sectors. however, that NEDA would keep the The interagency Development Budminimum growth target of 6.5 percent get Coordinating Committee (DBCC) for 2024 and 2025, with the sustained earlier said the gross domestic product

growth could range from 6 percent to 7 percent in 2023 and 6.5 percent to 8 percent in 2024 and 2025.

“There is no harm in reducing the 8 percent to something lower… but [we are] not lowering the 6.5 percent…[or] we are surrendering too early,” Balisacan said.

“We need to continue with the 6.5 percent to 8 percent to achieve the visions of the Ambisyon Natin 2040,” he said.

Balisacan said the services sec-

ACEN units raise P9.74b for RE plants ACEN Corp., the listed energy platform of the Ayala Group, said Monday its subsidiaries signed loan agreements worth nearly P9.74 billion to finance renewable energy (RE) projects.

ACEN said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange subsidiary ACEN International Inc. and Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. completed the signing of a term loan facility worth P7 billion.

It said the loan would be used to finance RE projects through its subsidiaries and joint ventures and for general corporate purposes.

Meanwhile, ACEN through subsidiary ACEN Renewables International Pte. Ltd. (ACRI) said it secured an Au$75 million (P2.743 billion) green term loan with the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corp. Ltd. (HSBC).

ACEN said in a separate disclosure the loan agreement underlines the company’s strategic move to bolster its renewable energy initiatives in Australia, an emerging key market for the company.

The green term loan will deliver the much-needed capital for ACEN’s renewable energy projects and support its ambitious goal to expand its RE capacity to 20 gigawatts by 2030.

Alena Mae S. Flores

LOGISTICS PARTNER.

2GO, a part of the SM Group, is selected as the primary logistics solutions and delivery partner for WalterMart Supermarket’s E-commerce business.

The strategic collaboration provides WalterMart shoppers the convenience of having their groceries delivered through 2GO to 13 key cities across Metro Manila.

2GO is tasked to operationalize Waltermart’s grocery delivery service.

tor would continue to drive economic growth, especially with the opening of the economy. Other sectors that will contribute to further economic expansion are tourism, the business process outsourcing industry and construction, which would offset the expected impact of the El Niño dry spell on the agriculture sector, he said.

“The agriculture sector will be challenged due to El Niño, but we hope it will recover in the second half next year,” he said.

FINANCIAL TRAINING.

Department of Trade and Industry-Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) executive director Nelly Dillera (third from left) and Monde Nissin people and culture director Luz Mercurio (second from left) show the signed memorandum of understanding at the PTTC head office in Pasay City. Under the agreement, Monde Nissin will team up with the PTTC and Ateneo de Manila University to roll out programs to provide its retirees with financial skills needed to explore entrepreneurship retirement.

With them are Monde Nissin learning and development head Lawrence Co (left) and PTTC planning and programming director Fe Avila. Joseph Muego

PAL signs codeshare agreement with American Airlines

By Darwin G. Amojelar PHILIPPINE Airlines said Wednesday it signed a codeshare partnership with American Airlines to roll out the first marketed flights by a Philippine carrier to several US destinations and allow American’s customers to travel to Manila and Cebu.

PAL placed its “PR” code on American’s flights between Los Angeles and seven US cities including Atlanta, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Miami, Orlando and Washington D.C., enabling connectivity with PAL’s trans-Pacific service.

“This partnership with American Airlines unlocks more options for customers traveling between Asia and the United States,” said PAL chief commercial officer Eric David Anderson.

“We are delighted to deliver on our long-term strategy of continuing to build our global reach. We look forward to creating more opportunities for travelers to discover the wonders of the Philippines,” he said.

American’s customers are now able to book tickets on aa.com for codeshare flights operated by Philippine Airlines to Manila and Cebu via Tokyo. Customers will also be able to fly to Manila

from Honolulu and Guam.

“We are excited to partner with Philippine Airlines, which will provide our customers seamless connections to Manila, the capital and economic hub of the region, and Cebu, the gateway to countless tropical islands with pristine beaches,” said American’s vice president of global alliances and partnerships Anmol Bhargava.

“The Philippines is one of the fastestgrowing economies in Asia, and we look forward to continuing to enhance our partnership with Philippine Airlines,” Bhargava said.

BSP: Bank loans rose at faster pace in October despite high interest rates BANK loans grew faster in October on sustained demand for credit from the different sectors of the economy, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Wednesday.

Preliminary data showed that outstanding loans of universal and commercial banks, net of reverse repurchase (RRP) placements with the BSP, went up by 7.1 percent year-on-year in October, slightly faster than the 6.5-percent expansion in September.

The BSP said that on a month-onmonth seasonally-adjusted basis, outstanding universal and commercial bank loans, net of RRPs, went up by 1.4 percent.

The growth defied the rising interest rates meant to control the elevated inflation. The BSP’s Monetary Board decided to take off-cycle action on Oct. 26 to raise the overnight borrowing rate by 25 basis points to 6.50 percent.

Outstanding loans to residents, net of RRPs, increased by 7.5 percent in October, also faster than 6.6 percent in the previous month.

Outstanding loans for production activities grew by 5.9 percent in October, compared with 4.9 percent in September, driven by the growth in lending to key industries such as real estate activities (8.3 percent); electricity, gas, steam, and airconditioning supply (10.2 percent); and wholesale and retail trade, and repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles (9.3 percent).

Meanwhile, consumer loans to residents grew by 22.8 percent in October, slower than 23.5 percent in September mainly due to the sustained growth in credit card loans and faster increase in motor vehicle loans.

Outstanding loans to non-residents fell by 5.1 percent in October from an increase of 0.3 percent in September.

Julito G. Rada

RE firms form group to boost OSW industry

By Alena Mae S. Flores LOCAL and foreign renewable energy (RE) developers formed a new association to promote and ensure the success of the offshore wind (OSW) industry.

The companies launched Pilipinas Offshore Wind Energy Resource Inc. (POWER) as a Philippines-based OSW industry organization on Wednesday at the Philippine National Oil Corp.

(PNOC) Executive Lounge at the Energy Center in Taguig City.

The association is composed of ACEN Corp., The Blue Circle (TBC), BlueFloat Energy, Citicore Renewable Energy Corp., Ignis ZA Global and Marubeni Asian Power Philippines Corp.

POWER’s members account for 15,000 to 20,000 MW out of the 63,359 MW OSW contracts issued by the Department of Energy (DOE).

The DOE awarded a total of 82 OSW projects located north of Luzon, west of Metro Manila, north and south of Mindoro, Panay and Guimaras Strait.

All these are in the pre-development stage, where assessments on resources, site suitability and project viability are being undertaken.

BOI endorses MPIC’s P3.4-b farm projects

By Othel V. Campos METRO Pacific Investments Corp.

(MPIC) secured green lane certificates of endorsement for two agricultural projects with combined investments of P3.4 billion from the Board of Investments (BOI).

Trade Undersecretary and BOI managing head Ceferino Rodolfo said the One-Stop Action Center for Strategic Investments awarded the certificates of endorsement for green lane processing to Metro Pacific Fresh Farms Inc. (MPFF) and Metro Pacific Dairy Farms Inc. (MPDF) in November 2023.

The MPFF, located in San Rafael, Bulacan, is a state-of-the-art facility designed to be the largest vegetable greenhouse in the Philippines. Itpromotes sustainable farming practices and modern technology to reduce resource consumption.

It is expected to start commercial operation by the fourth quarter of 2024 to produce high-quality, locallysourced organic vegetables.

The second project, the integrated dairy farm project, aims to replace imported milk with locallyproduced alternatives, enhancing food security and addressing value chain gaps.

B1

SPORTS NorthPort’s Tolentino is PBA Player of the Week BE it in victory or defeat, Arvin Tolentino continues to be a workhorse for NorthPort in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. In a one-week stretch that saw the Batang Pier play a total of three games, Tolentino consistently delivered for the team, including a 115-101 upset of San Miguel Beer in a win NorthPort fashioned out even in the absence of import Venky Jois.

As Jois sat out a hamstring injury, the 28-year-old Tolentino rose to the occasion by firing 28 points and five rebounds, while going 3-of-6 from beyond the arc to fill in the void left by their import and complete the stunning win.

The performance was a fitting follow up to his 18-point, three-rebound effort in a 111-95 win over Converge the previous game in another off-thebench role.

Those were enough for Tolentino to be named the PBA Press CorpsPilipinas Live Player of the Week for the period Dec 6-10 where he averaged 23.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.7 steals.

He became the first player to clinch the weekly honor handed out by the men and women covering the PBA beat, twice in the young season. Tolentino was also Player of the Week from Nov. 8-12.

But Tolentino was tightly challenged for the award by Phoenix rookie Ken Tuffin, who also got his share of the votes in the most hotlycontested selection process so far this conference.

Tuffin sparked a Phoenix third quarter comeback where he scored 13 of his 18 points to hold off reigning champion Barangay Ginebra, 82-77, in an out-of-town game in San Jose, Batangas.

The heroics of both Tolentino and Tuffin propelled their respective teams within the Top 5 in the standings, where the Top 4 units which emerged after the eliminations get to enjoy a twice-to-beat advantage in the playoffs.

The Batang Pier actually failed to complete a sweep of their schedule for the week, bowing to Meralco, 125-99, in which Tolentino still finished with an all-around number of 25 points, seven rebounds, and five assists.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023

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

Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial training early for the Paris Olympics.

Marcial considers pro bout for Paris Games preparations

By Randy Caluag

F

ILIPINO boxer Eumir Marcial has secured his slot in the 2024 Paris Olympics, becoming the first from the Philippines to do so.

However, Marcial faces the challenge of limited high-level tournaments in his preparation for a shot at Olympic gold.

With the Association of Boxing Alliances of the Philippines occupied with securing slots for other boxers, Marcial is considering a professional bout to sharpen his skills before the Olympics in August. “’Yan talaga ang plano, laban muna ng isang pro para mas maganda kondi-

syon sa Paris,” said Marcial during a recent workout with his national teammates at ABAP. Having received P500,000 in cash incentives from the Philippine Olympic Committee, Marcial remains highly motivated, seeking to improve his bronze-medal finish from the previous Tokyo Olympics in 2021.

Under Manny Pacquiao’s MP Promotions since 2020, Marcial transitioned to the men’s 80-kg category, earning his

Paris slot with a silver medal at the Hangzhou Asian Games.

Marcial is eager at the prospect of competing alongside his idol Pacquiao in the Olympics, should the former world champion secure a slot via the universality rule.

“Mas maganda talaga kung makakalaro at makakasama namin si boss Manny sa team. Malaking inspirasyon para sa amin kung makakalaro siya,” said Marcial, who is a 4-0 as a pro.

The Philippines will participate in two world boxing qualifiers scheduled for February in Italy and May in Bangkok, Thailand, to secure additional Olympic slots for other Filipino boxers.

Sanchez, 6 other PH swimmers seek Olympic slots

By Peter Atencio

NorthPort’s Arvin Tolentino

KAYLA Sanchez, now eligible to compete internationally as a Filipino, will be part of a seven-member Philippine national team seeking qualification to the Paris 2024 Olympics this February.

Batangas Rep. Eric Buhain (first district), the secretary general of the Philippine Swimming Inc., said he has entered Sanchez’s name into the list of Filipino aspirants who will compete in the coming Doha World Aquatics meet in the first week of February.

“I have seven seven swimmers, who are qualified. We have entered their names (to the competition),” said Buhain.

Sanchez will be able to represent the country in two months’ time after Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino wrote the International Olympic Committee last November 8 to seek updates on her status.

The IOC gave the green light on the POC’s request to waive the three-year residency rule that covers athletes, who switch nationalities.

The 22-year-old Sanchez will join national team members Jarrod Hatch and Gerald Jacinto in the men’s division, along with Thea Salvino, Jasmine Alkhaldi, Xiandi Chua and Thanya de la Cruz in the women’s side.

Sanchez is a full-blooded Filipino, whose father was originally from Mabalacat, Pampanga. Her mother is from Baguio City.

She once was part of Canada’s silver medal-clinching 4x100 meters women’s relay team in Tokyo 2020, before Sanchez and

Kayla Sanchez

her parents considered making a switch.

“Hopefully, we have good results in Doha, at may magqualify sa Paris,” said Buhain.

She was considered one of Canada’s top swimmers, before Sanchez decided to change her citizenship in June last year.

Adamson Baby Falcons near 1st-round sweep ADAMSON University moved on the cusp of a first-round sweep, while National University Nazareth School solidified its hold on second spot in the UAAP Season 86 high school boys basketball tournament Wednesday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.

The Baby Falcons blasted UP Integrated School, 103-72, to raise their record to 6-0, while the Bullpups extended their winning run to four with a 99-53 romp of De La Salle-Zobel.

In other games, defending champion Far Eastern University-Diliman hammered out a 66-58 win over University of the East to seize solo third while Ateneo checked a four-game skid, needing a huge fourth quarter to beat University of Santo Tomas, 74-59.

Zahir Sajili had 14 points, six rebounds, and five assists in a reserve role while Jus-

Games Sunday (Filoil EcoOil Centre) 8 a.m. – UPIS vs UE (Boys) 10 a.m. – NUNS vs UST (Boys) 12 p.m. – FEU-D vs AdU (Boys) 2 p.m. – DLSZ vs Ateneo (Boys)

tine Garcia chipped in 13 points, seven assists, and three steals for Adamson.

Coach Mike Fermin emphasized the need for his Baby Falcons to be aggressive against the winless Junior Fighting Maroons.

“Players did their job kasi ang usapan hindi mo puwedeng maliitin yung kalaban. The moment na yun ang ginawa mo, doon yung start ng bagsak namin eh,” said Fermin.

“First half medyo kinakapa nila pero sabi ko just stick to the game plan and

they did, they responded. We were able to get the win,” he added.

Nigerian big man Collins Akowe imposed his will in the middle with 32 points, 22 rebounds, and three blocks to lead NUNS in raising its record to 5-1.

The 6-foot-10 Akowe, who grabbed a league-high school record of 29 rebounds in last Saturday’s 84-76 victory over UPIS, had 28 points and 13 rebounds in the first half where the Bustillos-based side opened a 54-24 lead.

“Actually ako very happy kasi ito yung hinahanap kong game sa kanila eh. Actually sila nga gumawa ng game plan eh. Pre-game namin sabi ko sa kanila kayo gumawa ng game plan para sa inyo mismo manggaling, para pag magkamali sila, sila babalikan ko,” Bullpups coach Kevin De Castro said.

Turn to B2

Adamson’s Mark Esperanza lays one in.

Nick Kyrgios

Nick Kyrgios: I don’t want to play anymore SYDNEY—Nick Kyrgios says that “I don’t want to play anymore” but will give his tennis career another one or two years, days after pulling out of his home Australian Open.

The talented but temperamental 28-year-old had knee surgery in January and then aborted plans to return at Wimbledon after tearing a ligament in his wrist.

The 2022 Wimbledon finalist has spoken previously of his struggles with his mental health and has now told the On Purpose with Jay Shetty podcast about his fitness problems.

“If it was up to me, I don’t really want to play anymore, to be honest,” Kyrgios said.

“But I have to almost (keep playing). I’ve got so much more to give, but for me, I don’t want to play anymore.

“I’m exhausted, I’m tired. I have had three surgeries now.

“I always wanted to be able to have a family and not be in pain.

“When I get up, I can’t walk without pain.”

Kyrgios, who reached a careerhigh 13 in the world in 2016, said he was “heartbroken” last week when he withdrew from January’s Australian Open.

His long injury absence has sparked renewed speculation about his tennis future.

“I only want to play for about another one to two years and be at the top and go out (on) my own terms,” Kyrgios told the podcast, which was released this week.

“I would hate to have another surgery or anything like that.

So I think I’ve still got the ability to have a good one to two years.” AFP

B2

SPORTS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023

PVL setters take spotlight as Game 1 unfolds

R

ECIPIENT of countless Player of the Game honors, Deanna Wong still found herself overcome with emotions after anchoring Choco Mucho’s sudden death victory over Cignal for the other finals berth last Tuesday.

Not only did the triumph grant finals after eight conferences but the Flying Titans a breakthrough also positioned them to vie for the pass to a Premier Volleyball League league’s most prestigious title.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 306 – QUEZON CITY rtc1qzn306@judiciary.gov.ph 09760968624/8660-1763 IN THE MATTER OF THE TESTATE ESTATE OF NATIVIDAD GLORIA P. GONZALEZ SPEC. PROC. CASE No. R-QZN-23-06724-SP ANGELIQUE MARIE M. GONZALEZ, Petitioner. x-------------------------------------------------x

ORDER This is a Petition filed by petitioner Angelique Marie M. Gonzalez, through counsel, praying that after notice and hearing, the Notarial Will of the deceased, Natividad Gloria P. Gonzalez, be admitted to probate and letters testamentary be issued to her, sans bond.

Petitioner alleges that on 03 October 2019, Natividad Gloria Perez Gonzalez, who in her lifetime and at the time of her death was a citizen of the Philippines and a resident of Quezon City, Philippines, died at Philippine Heart Center, East Avenue, Quezon City. The Testator left the following compulsory heirs: Name

Age

Relation

Residence

61

Daughter

Blk 8 Tampines St. 73, #07-04 Pinevale Condo, Singapore 528826

Gloria Natividad G. Sena

52

Daughter

13 War Admiral CT North Potomac M Maryland, USA 20878

Augusto Benjamin Gerardo P. Gonzalez

37

Grandson

Unit 4610 SMDC Air Residences No. 7257, Yakal St., San Antonio Village, Makati City

Eleanor Encarnacion Natividad Gonzalez Perez

36

Granddaughter

34 Holystone Road, Whitby, Wellington, New Zealand 5024

Mariel Giselle Gonzalez

P.

34

Granddaughter

27 Spencer St., Immaculate Concepcion, Quezon City

Leslie Monica G o n z a l e z Raymundo-Roxas

46

Granddaughter

7459 Darque Way, Elk Grove, California, USA 95757

Araceli Natividad Gonzalez Raymundo

43

Granddaughter

708 B. Peace Valley Tandang Sora

Michelle Gonzalez Raymundo

40

Granddaughter

16H Classica Tower, 114 H.V. Dela Costa St., Salcedo Village, Makati City

Grace Dianne Gonzalez Raymundo

39

Granddaughter

182 Pasig Blvd. cor. Shaw Blvd. Pasig City

Katrina Veronica Gonzalez Raymundo

36

Granddaughter

182 Pasig Blvd cor Shaw Blvd.,Pasig City

Sheila T. Gonzalez

41

Granddaughter

2011 Toronto Ave California, USA 94579

Maria Antoni Gonzalez

M.

24

Granddaughter

27 Spencer St., Cubao, Quezon City

Angelique Marie M. Gonzalez

22

Granddaughter

27 Spencer St., Cubao, Quezon City

Angelita Carillo

Zita

G.

Augusto Juan Gonzalez

P.

San

Leandro,

Before her death, the Testator executed a notarial will dated 13 February 2018. The Will was executed by the Testator in accordance with the required formalities of a notarial will. In addition, the Testator, at the time of the execution of her Will, was of sound disposing mind, and not acting under duress, fraud, or undue influence and was in every respect capacitated to dispose of her estate by will. The Testator left properties in the Philippines, both real and personal, in the approximate amount of Six Million Four Hundred Fifty-Five Two Hundred Pesos (Php 6, 455,200.00) and is composed of the following properties and broken down as follows: a. b.

Parcels of land and improvement located at 27 Spencer St., Immaculate Concepcion, Quezon City in the name of the decedent with fair market value of Three Million Nine Hundred Seventy-Seven Thousand Four Hundred Pesos (Php 3,977,400.00).

A parcel of land located at Palo, Leyte, in the name of the decedent with fair market value of Two Million Four Hundred Seventy-Seven Thousand Eight Hundred Pesos (Php 2,477,800.00).

It appears that the Testator’s Will was left in the custody of her remaining living son, Augusto Juan P. Gonzalez, who lived in the same household as the Testator. However, Augusto died in 2021. It was only upon Augusto’s death that the Testator’s Will was found among his belongings by herein Petitioner, one of the Testator’s Grandchildren. Not being aware of the requirements of law, it is only recently that the subject Will was brought to the attention of the other heirs, and the advice and services of the undersigned counsel/s were secured for appropriate action. In the Will, Gloria Natividad Gonzalez Sena is named as the executor and that in case Gloria Sena becomes incapacitated to perform her duties as such, the Testator’s granddaughter, Andrea Marie G. Sena, shall be her substitute. Unfortunately, the name executor and her named substitute are not residents of the Philippines and, pursuant to Rule 78, Section 1 of the Rules of Court, are therefore incompetent to execute the duties of an executor. Considering that the named executor and her substitute are both incompetent to perform the duties of an executor, herein Petitioner Angelique Gonzalez, likewise next of kin and a devisee named in the Will, prays that she be appointed as executor and letters testamentary and/or of administration be granted in her favor pursuant to Section 6(a) of Rule 78 of the Rules of Court.

WHEREFORE, finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, let this case be set for hearing on February 6, 2024 at 1:30 in the afternoon before this Court located at Room 703, 7th Floor, Hall of Justice, Diliman, Quezon City, at which place and on which date and time, any person who has objections to the petition may appear and file his opposition thereto.

Let a copy of this Order be published, at the expense of the petitioner, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation throughout the Philippines, chosen by raffle.

Further, let a copy of this Order and the Petition, with its annexes, be served by registered mail upon the known heirs, legatees, devisees and the creditors of the deceased, Natividad Gloria Perez Gonzalez, at their respective addresses.

SO ORDERED. July 25, 2023, Quezon City.

Cc:

(Sgd.) DOLLY ROSE R. BOLANTE-PRADO Presiding Judge

YEBRA DEVESA LOON SANTOS HERNANDEZ LAW OFFICES Counsel for the Petitioner Penthouse, ENZO Building 399 Sen Gil J. Puyat Avenue Makati City 1200 ydl@dyllaw.com jgsantos@ydllaw.com cbelo@ydllaw.com ANGELITA ZITA G. CARILLO Blk. 8 Tampines St., 73, #07-04 Pinevale Condo Singapore 528826

The best-of-three All-Filipino Conference title playoff unfolds at 6 tonight at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City with Choco Mucho considered the clear underdog against sister team and six-time champion Creamline.

But the Flying Titans are more than ready and motivated to surpass expectations, determined to make the most of their rare finals appearance in the season-ending conference of the league organized

by Sports Vision.

“Finally, nakapasok na kami sa championship round. First conference pa lang nakita namin talaga yung naging paghihirap nung team. Sa second conference, talagang nagbunga yung paghihirap namin, even the coaching staff and the management na lagi kaming

Games Thursday (SM MOA Arena, Pasay) 4 p.m. – Chery Tiggo vs Cignal (Best-of-3 for 3rd) 6 p.m. – Creamline vs Choco Mucho (Best-of-3 for title)

gina-guide sa lahat ng ginagawa naming,” said Choco Mucho coach Dante Alinsunurin after leading the team to a 25-20, 23-25, 26-24, 25-23 win over the Cignal HD Spikers in Game 3 of their semis face-off.

“Siguro talagang lumabas lang yung kagustuhan namin na manalo at makuha yung Game 3. Kita naman sa mga pinag-trabahuhan ng mga bata, talagang nagbunga yung pagod naming,” added Alinsunurin, while acknowledging the team’s hardships and collective efforts that led to

AUGUSTO BENJAMIN GERARDO P. GONZALEZ Unit 4610 SMDC Air Residences No. 7257, Yakal St., San Antonio Village, Makati City ELEANOR ENCARNACION NATIVIDAD GONZLES PEREZ 34 Holystone Road, Whitby, Wellington, New Zealand 5024

LOS ANGELS—Luka Doncic produced another dazzling performance as the Dallas Mavericks brought LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers back down to earth with a 127125 victory on Tuesday.

Doncic rattled off his eighth straight 30-point game to finish with 33 points, 17 assists and six rebounds in a thrilling back-and-forth duel with the Lakers, playing their first game since winning the inaugural in-season tournament crown on Saturday.

An absorbing contest at Dallas’s American Airlines Center home saw the lead change hands eight times, with the Lakers overturning a 15-point deficit with a huge third quarter to help open up a four-point lead early in the fourth.

But Dallas’s Dante Exum took over with a superb display in the final period that saw him rattle in 17 points—including five threepointers—to carry the Mavs to victory.

Exum finished with 26 points while Tim Hardaway Jr. added 32 points from the bench to support Doncic.

Anthony Davis led the Lakers scoring with 37 points from 15-of-21 shooting, with James adding 33.

Doncic stayed in the game despite rolling an ankle and suffering a bloodied lip in a physical battle between the two Western Conference rivals.

“I’m not going out in a game like this, no way,” the Slovenian star said afterward. “When you’re playing against the best you want to stay on the court.

“This was an amazing team win. We’ve got so many guys out, everybody stepped up, everybody played hard.”

Celtics win, Jokic tossed Doncic meanwhile admitted he was flattered by talk of him potentially emerging as a contender for the NBA’s Most Valuable Player award—but insisted team success was more important than individual honors.

“Of course, who wouldn’t want to be MVP of the league?” Doncic said. “But obviously REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 105, QUEZON CITY Email: rtc2qzn105@judiciary.gov.ph Tel. No. +632-8-646-4146 SUPREME STEEL PIPE CORP., represented by SANTOS ESTANDARTE BAGSARSA, JR., Plaintiff, -versus-

CIVIL CASE NO. R-QZN-18-13236-CV

UNITED POWER SYSTEMS, INC., and ENGR. JOEL ALEGRE Defendants. x-------------------------------------------------x

NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE (Real Property)

WHEREAS, by virtue of the Writ of Execution dated August 23, 2023, issued by Hon. Rochelle Yvette D. Galano, Presiding Judge of Regional Trial Court, Branch 105, Quezon City, in the aboveentitled case, for the recovery by the plaintiff, SUPREME STEEL PIPE CORPORATION from the defendants UNITED POWER SYSTEMS, INC., and ENGR. JOEL ALEGRE the sum of Three Million Five Hundred Forty Four Thousand Twenty Four Pesos & 11/100 (Php3,544,024.11) inclusive of interest, penalty, and legal fees, Philippine Currency, LEVY was made on execution on October 10, 2023 by the undersigned Sheriff upon all the rights, titles, interest and participations which the defendant Engr. Joel Alegre, defendant has or might have in and over the following real property, which is more particularly described as follows, to wit: CCT No. 076-2017001652 “WIND RESIDENCES TOWER 4 FLOOR LEVER: SIXTEENTH FLOOR UNIT NUMBER: Unit-1624 UNIT TYPE: 1 BEDROOM UNIT UNIT AREA: 31.97 SQUARE METERS

The Notice of Sheriff’s Sale will be published in the “MANILA STANDARD PUBLICATION”, a newspaper of general circulation in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks, the first publication to take place at least twenty (20) days before the date of auction sale.

MARIEL GISELLE P. GONZALEZ 27 Spencer St., Immaculate Concepcion, Quezon City LESLIE MONICA GONZALEZ RAYMUNDO-ROXAS 7459 Darque Way, Elk Grove, Califonria, USA 95757

Prospective bidders or buyers are hereby enjoined to investigate for themselves the Condominium Certificate of Title No. 076-2017001652 of the Registry of Deeds, Tagaytay City, situated at Brgy. Salaban, Maharlika West (now), City of Tagaytay of the said real property and the encumbrance thereon, if any there be.

Quezon City, Philippines, December 12, 2023.

ARACELI NATIVIDAD GONZALEZ RAYMUNDO 708 B Peace Valley Tandang Sora MICHELLE GONZALEZ RAYMUNDO 16H Classica Tower, 114 H.V.Dela Costa St., Salcedo Village, Makati City

(Sgd.) FERDINAND M. PERALTA Sheriff IV WARNING: It is absolutely prohibited to remove, deface, or destroy this Notice of Sheriff’s Sale on or before the date of Auction Sale under penalty of the law.

GRACE DIANNE GONZALEZ RAYMUNDO 182 Pasig Blvd., cor Shaw Blvd., Pasig Ctiy KATRINA VERONICA GONZALEZ RAYMUNDO 182 Pasig Blvd., cor Shaw Blvd., Pasig City SHEILA T. GONZALEZ 2011 Toronto Ave., San Leandro, California, USA 94579

Copy furnished: SUPREME STEEL PIPE CORPORATION No. 5 Harmony Street, Grace Village, Balintawak, Quezon City

MARIA ANTONI M. GONZALEZ 27 Spencer St., Cubao, Quezon City

UNITED POWER SYSTEMS, INC., AND ENGR. JOEL ALEGRE UPSI Centre, Interior East Service Road, Sucat, Muntinlupa City and /or at Unit 3-G East Point Buss. Center, East Service Road, Taguig City

ANGELIQUE MARIE M. GONZALEZ 27 Spencer St., Cubao, Quezon City (MStandard - Dec. 14, 21 & 28, 2023)

Deanna Wong anchored Choco Mucho’s sudden-death victory over Cignal for the other finals berth last Tuesday.

Doncic, Exum lead Mavericks past LeBron, Lakers

NOW THEREFORE, by virtue of the said Writ of Execution and in accordance with the provisions of Sec. 15, Rule 39 of the Rules of Civil Procedure of the Philippines, the undersigned Sheriff, hereby give notice to all interested parties and announces to the public in general that on the February 8, 2024 at 10:00 o’clock in the morning or soon thereafter at the Lobby Main Entrance of the Hall of Justice Bldg., Annex, Diliman, Quezon City, he will sell at public auction to the highest bidder for CASH and in Philippine Currency, the above-described real property including improvements existing thereon, if any, in order to partially or fully satisfy the said writ of execution, together with the lawful fees and expenses in connection with this sale.

GLORIA NATIVIDAD G. SENA 13 War Admiral CT North Potomac M Maryland USA 20878

their historic finals stint.

Funny but the two teams that ushered in the All-Filipino last Oct. 15 are also closing out the second edition of the league’s centerpiece tournament this year.

While Creamline, which swept Chery Tiggo in their side of the semis playoff, boasts of experience and endgame poise, Choco Mucho relies on its hunger and desire to overcome the obstacles blocking its path to league immortality.

“We aim to elevate our performance even more to achieve our ultimate goal – win the championship,” said Creamline mentor Sherwin Meneses, whose wards are two wins away from completing another sweep of a PVL championship.

JOEL T. ALEGRE and ANN MARGERIE P. ALEGRE 842 Ruby Street, Posadas Village, 1770 Muntinlupa City ATTY. ISRAEL COMIA SOGUILON Casal Bldg., 15-A Anonas Street, Project 3, Quezon City ATTY. CHRISTIAN S. MARIANO UPSPI Centre Interior East Service Road, Sucat, Muntinlupa City

(MStandard-Dec. 14, 21 & 28, 2023)

Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks looks for a pass beyond Cam Reddish of the Los Angeles Lakers at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. AFP

first is the championship... That’s what’s first on my mind for sure.”

The win saw the Mavericks improve to 15-8 for the season while the Lakers fell to 14-10 to remain sixth in the West.

In other games on Tuesday, the Boston Celtics recovered from a shaky start to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 120-113 and preserve their unbeaten home record.

Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown scored 25 points apiece while Kristaps Porzingis finished with 17 on a night when all five starters posted double-digit tallies.

But the Eastern Conference leaders were made to work hard for the win after trailing by 15 points in the first quarter following a slew of turnovers and some woeful shooting. AFP

Chairman’s Cup stakes cars, cruise for hole-in-1 golf feats THE Manila Southwoods Chairman’s Charity Cup kicks off Friday at the Legends and Masters courses in Carmona, Cavite, boasting of an impressive lineup of prizes and making it a highly anticipated event in the golfing community.

The two-day event ending Saturday (Dec. 16), featuring the host club’s members and their dependents and guests, drew a maximum field of 500 players with half to play on each day at the Jack Nicklaus-designed championship courses.

Toyota Silang Cavite and Mitsubishi Motors/Alpine Motors are putting up a Toyota Raize and a Mitsubishi Xpander Cross, respectively, while Royal Caribbean/Baron Travel is offering a seven-night Alaska cruise on board the Brilliance of the Seas, inclusive of airfare for two (Manila-Vancouver-Manila) for aces on designated holes.

Round-trip tickets for two to Los Angeles, USA, courtesy of Starlux Airlines, a Smart Vogue Plus Ogawa Chair from Ogawa, and round-trip tickets for two (Manila-TaipeiManila) with hotel accommodations at the Hamp Court Palace from Klio International are also up for grabs for hole-in-one feats.

Adamson...

From B1

The Baby Tamaraws moved up to 4-2, while the Tiger Cubs, who lost two in a row, dropped to fourth with a 3-3 slate.

The Blue Eagles raised their record to 2-4 to force a three-way tie with the Tiger Cubs and the Junior Archers from fifth to seventh spots.

Cabs Cabanillas logged 12 points, six rebounds, and two steals while Veejay Pre had a double-double outing of 10 points and 12 boards to go along with four blocks for FEU-Diliman.

As the tournament nears the end of the first round, coach Allan Albano wanted to see his Baby Tamaraws work as a team.

“We are inconsistent. Kailangan namin

In the spirit of inclusivity, all above-mentioned prizes will be raffled off if no one hits a hole-in-one, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition.

The host club will also donate P300,000 to Autism Hearts Philippines, Inc. Meanwhile, Tee One, Inc. is also staking an XXIO 12 ECKS Iron Set Steel for an ace.

Under the format, members will play one 18-hole round using the Stableford points system with handicaps. While sponsors & guests will be using the system36 format.

The blue-ribbon event is backed by yearround sponsor Royal Caribbean/Baron Travel and hole-in-one sponsors Starlux Airlines, Ogawa, Mitsubishi Motors, Alpine Motors, Toyota Silang Cavite and Klio International & Tee One (Srixon).

The Platinum sponsors are Abomar Equipment Sales Corp., Cabuyao, Laguna City Mayor Dennis Hain, The Turf Company, Agrexplore Corp., Hanpass, Malveda Properties and Dev’t. Corp/Leads Agri and Tony and Jackey Salon, while Asia Global Technologies and Golforce are the Gold sponsors. maminimize yung turnovers namin, lessen yung mga pagkakamali but I’m proud sa mga boys and they’re young pa naman lots of improvement pa para sa kanila,” Albano said.

Kris Porter had a monster 20-20 outing of 21 points and 24 rebounds as Ateneo earned its first win since beating UPIS in the season opener.

“It’s a morale-boosting win for us. The past three games we were in there competing pero short kami nung dulo. It’s relieving na we pulled through today,” Blue Eagles coach Reggie Varilla said.

Ateneo broke away from a 48-48 standoff with a huge 26-11 fourth quarter.

In a notable line, Ethan Egea played all 40 minutes for UPIS, finishing with 26 points, nine rebounds, three assists, and two steals.

B3

SHOWBIZ

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023

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

Stell’s Vocalmyx wins inaugural ‘The Voice Generations’ in Asia SB19 Stell celebrates victory with Vocalmyx

COACH Stell’s Vocalmyx was crowned as the first-ever grand champion of The Voice Generations in the Philippines and Asia. The announcement was made by host Dingdong Dantes during the Sunday proceedings of GMA Network’s premier singing competition.

After showcasing remarkable vocal

prowess, Vocalmyx secured the coveted title, marking a historic win in the competition.

The only acapella group in the competition composed of teenagers from Cagayan de Oro emerged victorious with their eargasmic take on ‘Into The Unknown’ from the 2019 film “Frozen 2,” besting some of the finest talents in the competition during

Touchbass

Yugel Losorata

Of band reunion and music festival

the grand finals last Sunday, December 10.

As the grand champion, Vocalmyx received a P1 million cash prize and a recording and management contract with Universal Music Group Philippines.

SB19’s Stell gave a short advice on where they can spend their cash prize, “Siguro ang masasabi ko sa perang nakuha nila bukod sa ipang-ce-celebrate niyo ‘yan ng Christmas with your family, pwede niyo siyang gamitin para makabili or magkaroon kayo ng sariling mga gamit na kailangan niyo in the future, sa mga recording, microphones etc.,” he said.

Along with Vocalmyx in the Top 4 were P3 of Billy Crawford’s Team Billy, Music & Me of Julie Anne San Jose’s JuleSquad, and Sorority of Chito Miranda’s Parokya ni Chito.

P3 delivered a mellifluous version of “Go The Distance” from the 1997 movie Hercules, while Sorority shook the stage with their “This is Me” performance from the 2017 musical film The Greatest Showman. Music and Me performed the 2005 song “Hallelujah” by Bamboo.

Stell also praised Vocalmyx because of their support with one another during the

grand finals, “Feeling ko ang suporta na ‘yon ang nagpatibay lalo sa samahan nila.

Sobrang maswerte kami na nabigyan ng pagkakataon at nagbukas ng pinto para sa ganitong klaseng talento, marinig at makita dito sa buong bansa,” he added.

The members of Vocalmyx have been entertaining the coaches and audiences since the blind auditions with their acapella rendition of “Haypa,” which earned them a four-chair turn. They also performed “Marupok,” “Queen of the Night,” and “Killing Me Softly” en route to the grand finals.

Finding love in unlikely places Award-winning Filipino actor Christian Bables

W

The cast and director during the media conference of ‘Broken Hearts Trip’

HERE do broken hearts go? This is the poignant question that the upcoming comedy-drama film, upcoming Broken Hearts Trip Trip, seeks to answer. Led by the talented and award-winning actor Christian Bables Bables, the film promises a rollercoaster of emotions and laughter.

OPM band Rivermaya members Bamboo Mañalac, Mark Escueta, Rico Blanco, and Nathan Azarcon

THE upcoming Rivermaya reunion stirred instant controversy after the official group picture promoting the concert set next year did not include Perf De Castro, the band’s lead guitarist featured on their self-titled debut album released back in the ‘90s.

Perf reacted to the matter in a kind of all-Pinoy rock way by saying “wala sa picture eh di wala.” Some netizens are overreacting to the point of threatening to boycott the concert because they can’t bear hearing “214” and “Awit Ng Kabataan” without Perf’s familiar lead guitar showcase.

Come on, aren’t we lucky enough to be seeing on stage the four members (Bamboo Mañalac, Rico Blanco, Nathan Azarcon, and Mark Escueta) who stayed together for the band’s first three iconic albums? Whatever the reason that ultimately disallowed Perf from joining the highly hoped reunion must be internal and we can’t do anything about that.

There are two points to ponder on why there’s even public interest in the subject. One, Perf, after leaving the group that gave him his biggest break at least in his public life, managed to keep himself from falling into complete obscurity. Thanks to his immense talent and social media that kept him relevant. Second, fate somehow gave Perf a lesson. You can’t leave too early in the run, man. Yes, some factors led to his decision to jump ship, including being too young to be strong enough to stay perhaps a couple of years more.

With some Filipinos being sarcastic and asking why there’s even a reunion when the band is technically not disbanded, well, the concert promoter is addressing this question by describing the four involved as simply OG members. They’re not implying that the band had not been around for a while or that all those in the first album are participating in. That’s clear and should settle the issue.

Also, we have to partly blame this thing on the so-called branding.

Rivermaya could have disbanded long ago, but bands normally choose to keep going even if the only original member on board is the maracas player - to let the brand remain intact. The classy acts by The Beatles and Led Zeppelin, who both couldn’t go on with one less member, can’t just be reflected enough to be the standard practice.

Anyway, at the end of the day, the Rivermaya reunion come February 2024 is a testament to the beautiful music of the group’s early days that cemented their legacy. In fairness with Rico, who became the frontman after Bamboo left, and Mark, who has stood as the leader of an A-list band without a legitimate lead vocalist, they did a good job keeping Rivermaya active.

Now, let the concert happen. No toxic drama, just pure classic music for the Batang ‘90s and beyond.

Meanwhile, another great band from the ‘90s, Siakol, has dealt with key personnel changes. I’d rather not go into details. But it is important to note that their ex-lead vocalist Noel Palomo, who also wrote those classics, and lead guitarist Miniong Cervantes, are now performing under the name Repakol, with other musicians including Raz Itum (who first gained prominence as bass player-songwriter for Frio).

Repakol is part of Agila Music Festival 2023, a concert-for-acause scheduled on Saturday (Dec. 16) at the Amoranto Stadium in Quezon City. The musicfest is being put up by Magkuno Defender Eagles Club, a sorority/fraternity and non-profit organization which aims to raise funds for the construction of two classroom buildings with full amenities at Pantoc Elementary School in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija.

The event to be hosted by comedian Pooh will also be featuring performances from Flow G, Chocolate Factory, Typecast, Black Rosary, Hagibis 4th, Eye Candies, Noelle & Natasha, Reymack Duo, Ken, Bryan & Ren, Rampage Duo, Beauty The Beast, Irene Diva, Darius Caneta, and Yeng Constantino. General admission tickets are priced at P500 and can be purchased through the Ticketmelon website.

Premiering nationwide on Dec. 25, Broken Hearts Trip is the official entry for the 49th edition of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) of BMC Films in collaboration with Smart

Films.

The movie revolves around a reality show hosted by Bables. In the show, he is also one of the three ‘Judgers’ alongside character actress Tart Carlos, and the seasoned actress Jaclyn Jose. They take the audience on a journey into the lives of five brokenhearted LGBTQ individuals played by Teejay Marquez, Marvin Yap, Petite, Iyah Mina, and Andoy Ranay.

After enduring countless heartaches, frustrations, and seemingly endless grief, their chracters are given a chance to heal in some of the most beautiful places in the Philippines.

A corporate agency sponsors a reality competition titled The Broken Hearts Trip,, offering contestants the opportunity

Korea’s biggest names arrive in PH for Asia Artist Awards

By Angelica Villanueva HOLD on to your kimbap and pandesal, folks, as some of the biggest names in Korean entertainment arrived at the Clark International Airport for the highly anticipated Asia Artist Award 2023.

From K-pop idols with electrifying moves to actors radiating heartstopping charisma, the guest list reads like a veritable who’s who of Asian entertainment.

Among the star-studded lineup who had already touched down in the country were Stray Kids, Kep1er, Seventeen’s BSS, Kim Sejeong, Zerobaseone, Lee

Korean girl group ITZY

Young Ji, Itzy, and EXO’s Suho.

As the artists made their way through the airport, fans and media alike were thrilled to catch a glimpse of their favorite idols.

On the other hand, girl groups Le Sserafim and NewJeans were also spotted at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

The artists are all set to grace the Asia Artist Award 2023, happening today at the Philippine Arena. The event promises to be an unforgettable affair with some of the biggest names in South Korea coming together to celebrate the best of Asian music and entertainment.

EXO’s Suho waves as he meets his Filipino fans at the Clark International Airport

of a lifetime. To stay in the competition, participants must remain single at the end of their journey, with a one-million-peso cash prize awaiting the last gay man or trans woman standing. Each destination becomes a stage where these individuals confront their past, navigate the road to recovery, and ultimately decide whether their journey is a pursuit of money or a quest for love.

In each episode, the film spotlights one participant’s experiences, where every step and activity, though not always going as planned, offers valuable lessons. The journey continues, growing more enriching and exciting as the contestants grapple with the perplexing question at the heart of the film.

Joining the lively ensemble of cast members are Jay Gonzaga, Ron Angeles, Argel Saycon, Arnold Reyes, Kevin Posadas, and Sinon Loresca, each contributing their unique charm to engaging roles. The screenplay, penned by Archie Del Mundo, based on an original story by Lex Bonife, is executive produced by Benjie M. Cabrera, Omar Tolentino, and Power Up Workpool Inc. The producers express their excitement for joining the MMFF, emphasizing the film’s unique perspective on showcasing local tourist spots while weaving stories of love, and heartbreak, picking up the pieces, and moving on.

“People want to be entertained,” they note. “Broken Hearts Trip makes you laugh and cry, all while taking you to scenic places around the country. It’s funny, dreamy, and brave at the same time.”

‘Business Proposal’ star Kim Sejeong

B4

LIFE

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023

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

Flu season basics

Signs, symptoms, and solutions AN ITCHY throat or non-stop cough with phlegm can be a bother to have, especially as the holiday season is approaching. These symptoms are signs that you might be experiencing a viral or bacterial infection.

Instead of looking for temporary solutions for these symptoms, it’s smarter to target the root cause of this problem for lasting relief and prevention of any serious infections in the future.

Swift action and targeted medication are important in avoiding any serious infections, especially as the country is seeing a possible uptick of cases of flulike illnesses being reported. According to the Department of Health, these cases have risen by 45 percent compared to October of last year, necessitating vigilance on everyone’s part to stop the infections from spreading further during the holidays.

As the country’s population continues to become more comfortable being mobile outdoors, infections can spread easily as people are exposed to it in the air or on unsanitized surfaces.

These illnesses may be characterized by coughs, fevers, and phlegm. Normally, our bodies’ immune system should fight these illnesses off, but medications help speed up the recovery process as these infections have the potential to worsen if left unattended for too long.

If infections remain persistent, the bacteria or virus can develop and cause more serious ailments like pneumonia.

Address it too late and the sickness can become severe to the point that overthe-counter medicine may not relieve it anymore and antibiotics must be taken.

To avoid serious infections from happening, prevention is key. Experts believe that when sick with a cough,

The Department of Health reports that flu cases have risen by 45 percent compared to October of last year

it’s better to be careful and mask up. Masks are most effective in protecting against viruses exiting the mouth, which is why it is doubly important to cover up when experiencing these symptoms to protect the welfare of others.

Flu symptoms can be relieved by bed rest, drinking lots of fluids, and over-the-counter medicines to attend to fevers. On top of that,

mucolytic medicines such as Solmux Advance with Zinc can be used for early symptoms of cough with phlegm, since it contains Zinc that can help fight viruses and make recovery faster in as early as three days. Solmux Advance Suspension with Zinc, is a liquid variant with soothing menthol flavor.

Let the worry-free and healthy holiday celebrations begin.

Solmux Advance with Zinc can be used for early symptoms of cough with phlegm

On keeping the holiday cheer despite challenges

The Body Shop’s Limited Edition Cherries & Cheer Collection

Let Christmas be not only a season of gift-giving and festivities but also a time to be kinder to people around us

The Body Shop’s Limited Edition Pears & Share collection

A Christmas of cherries and pears POSITIVE change starts with a gift. And this Christmas, bring inspiration to your loved ones with The Body Shop’s Limited Edition Cherries & Cheer and Pears & Share collections.

Cherries & Cheer brings love with the joyfully, sweet, fruity fragrance of cherry, almond milk, and vanilla. Cherries & Cheer Body Butter leaves skin feeling softer and smoother with a nongreasy formula made with 96 percent natural origin ingredients, as well as Community Fair Trade shea butter from Ghana and sesame seed oil from Nicaragua.

Leave skin feeling cleansed and refreshed with the luscious lather of Cherries & Cheer Shower Gel, which is made with 92 percent natural origin ingredients, including cherry extract and Community Fair Trade organic aloe vera from Mexico.

Glow with the nourishing and comforting Cherries & Cheer Nourishing Body and Massage Oil, which is enriched with Community Fair Trade organic olive oil from Italy. Soften and protect the skin with the rich, non-greasy Cherries & Cheer Hand Balm with its 96-hour moisture to soften and protect the skin.

The Pears & Share collection, on the other hand, brings joy to the festive season with the sweet and uplifting scent of pear, sloe berries, and peony.

The fast-absorbing lightweight Pears & Share Body Yogurt instantly hydrates dry skin with 24-hour moisture to leave it smooth; while the Pear & Share Shower Gel will leave skin feeling cleansed, refreshed, and singing with the sweet and uplifting scent of pear, sloe berries, and peony.

Slather on a scoop of Pears & Share Body Butter to leave skin feeling softer and smoother, and singing with a sweet uplifting scent. Or buff a dollop of Pears & Share Cream Body Scrub into your skin for gentle exfoliation that leaves it feeling smoother and softer.

Gently buff lips with the exfoliating sugar Pears & Share Lip Scrub to leave them feeling smoother and nourished with moisture; and help soften and protect skin with Pears & Share Hand Cream’s 24-hour moisture.

The Body Shop’s Limited Edition Cherries & Cheer and Pears & Share collections are available at Body Shop stores and online at www.thebodyshop. com.ph.

Pretty Bubble Boutique is renowned for its dedication to offering the highest quality products and services for pets

Job Well Done

C

Joba Botana

HRISTMAS will always be a favorite time of the year. Having said that, it’s also true that it usually is the busiest, sometimes utterly trying, and oftentimes the most anxiety-filled season for some of us, myself included.

Stepping back, I am aware that all these can be selfimposed burdens; if I don’t care about matters concerning my relationships and living, then there is nothing to worry about.

However, most of us do care a lot even about the littlest things no matter how hard we try to “choose our battles.”

Despite all of these, I am grateful for moments of short breaks, when I can sit back and put things into perspective.

I like what someone at work said to me: “Let’s make it work despite the hassles.” It’s true. Challenges will be there. There will always be a “hassle.” Patience will be tested. And often, cutting people some slack can be quite challenging especially when our vision is limited to our circumstances and interests.

This holiday season, I think I will try a little harder at this kindness thing, a word we easily throw around without really putting its meaning to heart. Our paths may intersect at some points in our lives, but we all have different stories.

It sounds cliché but we do know the struggles of those around us. We don’t have a firm grasp on what is going on inside their heads and hearts. It can be hard, but I’ll try to be gentler with my words and actions. Perhaps I will fail, and then try again. *** Pretty Bubble Boutique celebrates first year with gratitude, more pretty pups Pretty Bubble Boutique, the premier pet destination in Bonifacio Global City, celebrates its first bubbly year in Bonifacio Global City this month.

The upscale pet shop from South Korea, known for its commitment to providing the finest products and services for pets, has become a beloved haven for pet owners seeking quality and luxury for their furry friends.

Since its introduction to the Philippine market last year, Pretty Bubble Boutique has set the standard for excellence in the pet industry. The boutique offers a curated selection of premium pet products, including gourmet treats, designer accessories, and top-notch grooming services. With a focus on creating a comfortable and stylish environment, Pretty Bubble Boutique has become the go-to destination for pet owners who want the best for their beloved companions.

In just a year, Pretty Bubble Boutique has rehomed thousands of puppies and kittens with their perfectly matched families. Pretty Bubble Boutique takes pride in being on the leading edge of presenting a diverse selection of dog breeds ranging from micro to giant puppies, catering to various preferences and lifestyles.

Whether you’re looking for a playful and energetic companion or a calm and affectionate friend, Pretty Bubble Boutique has the perfect match for you. Dedicated to providing the finest products and services for pets, the boutique also offers a curated selection of gourmet treats, designer accessories, and exclusive grooming services in a stylish and comfortable environment.

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

Pretty Bubble Boutique provides a curated range of highquality pet products, gourmet treats, designer accessories, and exceptional grooming services