Manila Standard - 2023 December 19 - Tuesday

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President back home, brings P14.5b in pledges from Japan

By Charles Dantes, Maricel V. Cruz, and Othel V. Campos VOL. XXXVII • NO. 307 • 2 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2023 •

THE Philippines garnered P14.5 billion in investment pledges during President Marcos’ four-day visit to Tokyo to attend the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit.

Pointless to expel China envoy—PBBM

The President, arriving from Japan at 11 p.m. Monday, said the newly signed agreements and pledges to invest in the Philippines could create 15,750 additional jobs.

“I am delighted to know that the letters of intent signed last February 2023 and those signed today now aggregate P771.6 billion or about $14 Next page

But Marcos admits he’s upset with Huang as tensions in West Philippine Sea escalate

P

RESIDENT Marcos said Monday it would be “pointless” to have Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian expelled even as he said he was personally "upset" with the envoy’s remarks on the issue of Beijing's incursions in the West Philippine Sea. “If I am talking about this on a personal level, maybe I’ll be upset,” Mr. Marcos said Monday in an interview in Tokyo, as he was set to come home from the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit.

“But you are not talking about me.

You are talking about the Philippines.

It does not serve any purpose for us to lose our temper or overreact,” the President said.

“He is continuing to state the Chinese narrative. Of course, we won't agree with that narrative, but I cannot see him doing anything else, so we just keep trying. Because the truth of the matter is, even if we have Ambassador Huang replaced, the next am-

bassador will still say the same things because that is the Chinese line. They will not stop. That is why we have to work around it,” he added.

The President said he understands the Chinese ambassador was "just doing his job."

“I wish we could talk about it over the table as opposed to colliding with each other's ship in the open sea. Of course, I will prefer the less confrontational method of trying to decide these things, but it is what it is,” he said.

Several lawmakers, led by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, earlier expressed displeasure over Huang's Next page

WORTH A SMILE. President Marcos Jr. smiles as he answers

questions from the media on the last day of the ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation Commemorative Summit in Tokyo, Japan on Sunday.

With Speaker Martin Romualdez (inset, seated third from left) and some Cabinet members, Mr. Marcos reported receiving P14.5 billion in investment pledges on this trip. PPA Pool

Economic provisions of Charter Signing of 2024 worth reviewing, Angara asserts budget slated

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

FROM GAZA TO MANILA. Gelienor ‘Jimmy’ Leano Pacheco hugs his daughter as

he is reunited with his family upon his arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Monday via Philippine Airlines flight PR 659. Pacheco, 33, a caregiver and father of three, was taken hostage in Gaza by Hamas terrorists attacking Kibbutz Nir Oz in southern Israel last Oct. 7, and freed on Nov. 24. Danny Pata

SPEAKER TO REDS: CHOOSE PEACE NEWS / A2

PINOYS OPTIMISTIC FOR 2024, SAYS POLL NEWS / A2

1 in Davao missing as storm Kabayan lashes Mindanao

By Vince Lopez and Rio N. Araja A MAN went missing and thousands of people were sheltering in evacuation centers Monday as Tropical Storm Kabayan hit Mindanao, causing scattered flooding and power cuts, and disrupting sea and air travel in Central Visayas.

Disaster officials said 6,723 persons or 2,190 families were displaced in the Caraga region in northeast Mindanao due to Kabayan. Most of them were staying in 48 evacuation centers.

The storm (international name Jelawat) weakened into a low-pressure area by Monday evening as it raked Next page

THE chairman of the Senate finance committee on Monday said the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution were "worth reviewing."

Senator Juan Edgardo Angara said amending such provisions might be timely to give the country "some flexibility” in those areas.

"The time might be right to revisit some of the provisions of the Constitution because it's 1987—vintage [already]. You know that's almost 40 years and the world has changed a lot from 1986 or '87. The economic boundaries have come down," Angara said in a television interview.

President Marcos last week said he

ordered a study on the need to amend the Constitution to attract more foreign investments.

He said certain laws stemming from the 1987 Charter either ban or discourage foreign investors from doing business in the country.

"What we're looking at here is the opportunity cost of those who would like to invest here but somehow the laws that derived from the constitution when it comes to the economic provisions do not allow them to, or make it non-viable for them," Mr. Marcos said.

Earlier, Speaker Martin Romualdez said Congress is pushing to amend the 1987 Constitution next year.

Wednesday

By Charles Dantes and Maricel Cruz PRESIDENT Marcos will sign on Wednesday the 2024 national budget, which has been stripped of confidential and intelligence funds originally allocated for civilian and non-security agencies, including the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education.

“It’s ready for [signing], I think the signing ceremony will be on Wednesday,” Next page

Next page

‘No significant impact’ on first day of transport strike have a significant impact on public transportation.

“There is a little impact. It is minimal and we are dealing with it,” said the chairman of the Metropolitan MaTHE government on Monday said the nila Development Authority (MMDA), first day of a 12-day strike in the Na- Don Artes. tional Capital Region (NCR) didn’t Artes said the MMDA is ready to

By Joel E. Zurbano, Rio N. Araja and Darwin G. Amojelar

deal with more protest actions considering the upcoming Dec. 31 deadline for public utility jeepneys to consolidate under the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) or have their franchise revoked.

"We are ready to respond to any Next page

STRIKE SCENES. Passengers crowd public vehicles at Philcoa in Quezon City during the rush hour on Monday, as the

transport group from Manibela keeps its jeepneys parked at its Manila headquarters on the first day of a 12-day transport strike.

Manny Palmero and Danny Pata

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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2023

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Speaker to Reds: Choose peace S

By Maricel V. Cruz

PEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has appealed to communist rebels to consider the consequences of their actions and “choose the path of peace.”

Romualdez made the statement follow- Balayan, Batangas last Sunday. ing a firefight between the Armed Forces of “In this light, I earnestly appeal to the the Philippines (AFP) and suspected New insurgents to consider the broader implicaPeople’s Army (NPA) communist rebels in tions of their actions on our country and its

Filipinos hopeful for 2024, says PAHAYAG poll THERE is a notable upswing in Filipino optimism, as views toward the current state, national direction, and economic prospects experience positive shifts, a survey said.

Results from the PAHAYAG End of Year survey conducted between Nov. 29 and Dec. 4, 2023, also showed that views on the country’s current state have seen a slight improvement, rising from 43 percent to 45 percent.

Noteworthy regional variations include North-Central Luzon increasing from 43% in Q3 to 49% in Q4, South Luzon from 40% to 45%, and Visayas from 41% to 47%.

However, Mindanao shows a sharp decline, dropping from 50% to 44%.

Additionally, specific age and income groups display fluctuations, with 18-24-year-olds witnessing an increase from 35% to 47%, while 25-29-yearolds decline from 52% to 43%. Middle-income voters also experienced a shift from 48% to 38% in Q4.

Views on the country's direction have notably recovered, surging from 61% in Q3 to 66% in Q4. Regional variations showcase positive trends in North-Central Luzon (60% to 64%), South Luzon (54% to 62%), and Visayas (57% to 65%).

However, Mindanao sees a slight decline from 70% to 67%.

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"I believe 2024 will allow us again to revisit the whole issue of the Constitution because I think it’s timely that we revisit and I say we’d like to focus very much on the economic provisions," Romualdez said.

Charter change, he said, was needed to unlock the country's potential as an investment destination.

“Next year, we will focus our attention on studying and reviewing proposals that deal with the restrictions blocking the entry of foreign capital and investment in the Philippines," Romualdez said.

"These include deliberations on proposed measures related to constitutional change,” he added.

For his part, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III said itwill not be possible to exclude the Senate for the push to amend the Charter.

“Not involving the Senate and they believe that they can amend the Constitution? Impossible. That is not only unconstitutional, but also impossible,” Pimentel said in a separate television interview yesterday.

“If that is the attitude of our friends at the House, all the more they will really lose support of the senators,” he added, Pimentel said only a “minority” of the 24 senators are supportive of amending the Constitution.

Under Article XVII of the 1987 Constitution, Charter change can be done through Congress upon a vote of three-fourth of all its members; through a constitutional convention; or through a people’s initiative upon a petition of at least twelve per centum of the total number of registered voters, of which every legislative district must be represented by at least three per centum of the registered voters therein.

Pimentel, a stalwart of PDP-Laban whose main advocacy is to push for a federal form of government, said he is supportive of amending the political provisions of the Constitution but not the economic provisions.

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Speaker Martin Romualdez told reporters on Monday in Japan where he accompanied Mr. Marcos for the 50th ASEANJapan Friendship and Cooperation Commemorative Summit.

A separate Palace source confirmed

Pointless...

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supposed failure to help ease tensions in the WPS, with some urging the government to declare the envoy a "persona non grata.”

“This is not just about us. This is about the Philippines. If we make a wrong decision, it will result in a big clash. We don’t want to go anywhere near that situation,” Mr. Marcos said.

As this developed, only one China Coast Guard ship is left within the vicinity of Ayungin Shoal where the BRP Sierra Madre is standing watch, National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said Monday as he denied Beijing was on an “invasion mode.”

“We are monitoring the situation, and as of now, I got the latest data which shows that all CMM ships have left, they already left as of yesterday (Sunday) and this was confirmed in today's report,”

President...

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billion in pledges from Japanese investors—expected to generate approximately 40,000 jobs (including previous pledges),” Mr. Marcos said Monday before flying home.

"Your interest in doing business with us will surely help achieve mutual economic growth between the Philippines and Japan," he added.

The Presidential Communications Office said the President would notmake an arrival statement Monday night but issue a video message later on.

The President earlier said the investments cover a wide range of sectors, including semiconductors, health care, infrastructure, and agriculture.

“But many of these projects that investments that they’re bringing inare not only for the Philippine market; they are also for foreign markets that will also improve our external balance and payments,” he said.

Presidential Adviser on Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go said an investor event organized by the Department of Trade and Industry included the signing of nine new memoranda of understanding

people. I urge them to abandon the path of violence and to rejoin the fold of the law,” Romualdez said in a statement.

According to reports, six suspected NPA members also lost their lives in a gun battle Sunday involving joint forces from the Philippine Army's 59th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Navy, and Philippine Air Force. Three soldiers were wounded and promptly transported to the Medical Center Western Batangas for medical treatment.

Romualdez emphasized the government's commitment to reconciliation and

dedicated efforts to assist those willing to choose the path of peaceful reintegration into society.

The House chief earlier offered condolences to the family of a soldier who lost his life in the line of duty during the Dec. 17 firefight between the AFP and suspected NPA communist rebels.

Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. vowed that the government would continue to pursue and eradicate terrorist groups, following the killing of the said soldier in a clash with rebels in Batangas. With Vince Lopez

Malaya said in a television interview.

Western Command aerial reconnaissance teams have observed 10 Chinese vessels – including three CCG ships – in the vicinity of Ayungin Shoal as of Friday.

Maritime security expert and former United States defense official Ray Powell called Beijing’s increased presence in the disputed waters an “invasion.”

Malaya, however, said the description was "more of a hyperbole or an exaggeration of what is happening there."

Over the weekend, President Marcos underscored the need to find “new solutions” and forge strong alliances with like-minded allies as hedescribed the situation in the South China Sea as “the most complex geopolitical challenge that the world faces.”

“I’m afraid we’ll have to be able to say that tensions have increased rather than diminished for the past months or the past years… but we continue to counsel peace and continue communication between the different countries,” said Mr. Marcos,

who was in Japan for the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida likewise spoke of serious challenges in the region, without mentioning China.

“We are at a turning point in history, and the free and open international order based on the rule of law is facing serious challenges while we are facing complex and multiple challenges such as climate change and inequality,” Kishida said.

“While the world is facing complex crises as division and conflict escalate in many places, Japan will tackle the challenges together with ASEAN countries, which are linchpins of the free and open Indo-Pacific,” the Japanese leader said, using a term for the Asia-Pacific region used by the US and its allies.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, encompassing waters and islands close to its neighbors’ shores. It has ignored an international tribunal ruling in 2016, which stated that its claims have no legal basis. Charles Dantes and Vince Lopez

with a total value of P14 billion.

More significantly, Go said over 20 companies provided updates to the President on their pledges from his trip in February.

“And on that part, we don’t know the exact number today, but [there were] P169 billion of actualized investments from the trip earlier this year,” Go said.

Notable collaborations include the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corp. for Transport and Urban Development (JOIN), focusing on studies related to the development of New Clark City.

BCDA is also partnering with Manila Japanese School (MJS) for the renewal of the school's lease in a four-hectare site at Bonifacio Global City for another 25 years.

Other investors, such as Ibiden Co. Ltd and Japan Aviation Electronics Industry Ltd., are injecting foreign direct investments (FDIs) into electronics manufacturing to enhance efficiency and increase production by modernizing their Philippine facilities.

Medley Inc., Minebea Mitsumi Inc., Nitori Holdings Co. Ltd, and Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. also committed to

invest in the country, focusing on business process outsourcing operations, expanding furniture, and improving production and replacing aging Philippine facilities.

DMCI Project Developers Inc. is also forming a joint venture with Japan's Marubeni Corp. for property development projects.

Also, while in Japan, the President said there were substantial advantages to the proposed reciprocal access agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan in maintaining regional peace and stability.

During his preliminary statements at his meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on the sidelines of the 50th Commemorative Summit of the ASEANJapan Friendship and Cooperation in Tokyo, President Marcos underscored the strengthening relationship between the two countries, exemplified by the Official Security Assistance (OSA) resulting from the establishment of a strategic partnership between the Philippines and Japan.

“We are in agreement that we consider to be extremely significant between our two countries is the reciprocal access agreement that will give us a greater capability in terms of not only security but also in terms of disaster preparedness, alleviation, and adjustment,” the President told Kishida.

situation. We assure the people we are doing our best,” he said.

The MMDA chief asked those holding strikes to stop harassing fellow drivers who are still plying their routes.

“I am calling on the protesters, although you have the right to express your opinion, let's not stop those who want to earn a living for their families," he said.

The president of one of the striking groups, Manibela, said other groups that have already signed up for franchise consolidation under the PUVMP will be discussing plans for a nationwide protest as the Dec. 31 deadline looms.

Transport groups have rejected plans to modernize their jeepney units, which would cost at least P2 million per modernized jeep.

Manibela president Mar Valbuena said at least 50,000 jeepney unitscould stop servicing their routes in Metro Manila, not counting other PUVs such as UV express units, because of the program.

Transport groups Piston and Manibela are holding a nationwide strikefrom Dec. 18 to 29 in protest of the government's deadline to consolidate jeepney operators as part of the PUVMP. The groups believe the modernization program will deprive many PUV operators and drivers of their livelihood.

Many PUV drivers, however, took

trips early Monday morning before joining the strike.

Longer LRT, MRT hours sought Meanwhile, the MMDA said it is batting for extended operating hours of the MRT and LRT this holiday season.

Artes said the MMDA will coordinate with the Department ofTransportation (DOTr) to propose the extended operating hours of therailways to cater to mall workers and shoppers in light of the longer mall hours.

He said the MMDA is also ready to manage the anticipated heavy flow of traffic as Christmas approaches.

"During the weekend, as expected, the flow of traffic increased, butthe only traffic jams were on the (South Luzon Expressway) and (North Luzon Expressway) but within Metro Manila, that did not happen. We prepared. We planned well," Artes said.

In other developments: • The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has ordered its personnel torun after "colorum" or unregistered public utility vehicles and picky taxi drivers during the Christmas rush. Personnel from the LTO's Law Enforcement Service will be deployed to malls in Metro Manila and other urban areas in the country to carry out "Oplan PASAWAY," LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II said, adding that there is always a surge of complaints against taxi drivers who refuse to convey travelers during the Christmas season.

the signing of the P5.76-trillion budget at the Palace has been set for Wednesday.

Romualdez said the President wanted to sign the national budget into law before he departed for Japan last week, but there were certain printing requirements that needed to be fulfilled first.

The final Congress-approved version of the General Appropriations Bill no longer had CIFs for non-security agencies.

“It's also a reading of the public opinion, (and) the public opinion wanted greater transparency on the budget,” said Senator Juan Edgardo Angara, chairman of the Senate finance committee.

Romualdez said the House of Representatives and the Senate were one in removing the CIF appropriations.

“Both houses (of Congress) agreed upon it. In fact, the heads of the

‘No...

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1 in Davao...

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across Mindanao after making landfall in the morning, but the state weather service said the threat of floods and landslides remained.

Police in Manay municipality in Davao Oriental, where Kabayan made landfall, reported one man missing at the swollen Casaoman River that bisects the coastal town of about 40,000 people.

"A local man ignored warnings and went to gather coconuts floating on the river. It is suspected he's been swept away," acting Manay police chief Major Meliton Sango said.

Two areas of Manay reported kneedeep floodwaters as the river overflowed, the officer said.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said a total of 11,729 persons or 3,428 families were evacuated in Caraga and Northern Mindanao.

The Surigao del Sur Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO) said that some of its displaced residents were staying in evacuation centers.

PDRRMO head Alex Arana told radio dzBB that as of Monday morning, there were 19,362 persons or 5,454 families in 83 evacuation centers in the province. With AFP departments have agreed to it. They have voluntarily withdrawn it (request for confidential funds),” he said.

“And the President is of that mind that as much as possible, to minimize the CIFs of the civilian department or agencies and rather focus where, you know, where it’s best suited: for security issues, for defense, for Coast Guard, for the West Philippine Sea,” the Speaker added.

SC sustains rule on Cojuangco Baguio asset

By Rey E. Requejo THE Supreme Court has sustained a ruling issued by the Sandiganbayan in 2020 that lifted the sequestration order against a property in Baguio City belonging to Ramon Cojuangco, founder of Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT) and his wife Imelda.

In a 10-page decision penned by Associate Justice Maria Filomena Singh, the High Court's Third Division denied the petition filed by the Presidential Commission on Good Government seeking the reversal of Sandiganbayan's March 13, 2020 decision.

The Sandiganbayan granted the petition filed by C&O Investment and Realty Corp and its chairman and president, Miguel Cojuangco, one of the compulsory heirs of the Cojuangco spouses.

The anti-graft court said the property should not be considered as ill-gotten wealth because the transfer certificate title shows it was acquired by the Cojuangcos on Dec. 12, 1955, before the term of the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. The Sandiganbayan also ruled that respondents presented a deed of absolute sale dated Dec. 23, 1976 between spouses Cojuangco and C&O which showed that even before the sequestration letter was issued, the property had long been sold by the Cojuangcos and should not have been considered part of their assets.

In assailing the Sandiganbayan decision, the PCGG insisted the property is validly being held to answer for dividends and interests accruing from the Philippine Telecommunications Investment Corporation.

IN BRIEF Kerosene price cut

by P0.85/l; diesel up OIL firms will implement a mixed price movement for their petroleum products effective 6 a.m. Tuesday to reflect the movements in the world market.

The firms rolled back the pump price of kerosene by P0.85 per liter but increased the price of diesel by P0.10 per liter. Gasoline prices did not change.

Department of Energy (DOE) director for the Oil Industry Management Bureau Rodela Romero said this can be attributed to the lackluster demand in Asia particularly China and India, weaking position of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies. Alena Mae Flores

Casiño hits SMNI hosts with lawsuit BAGONG Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) chair Teddy Casiño on Monday filed a P2-million lawsuit against Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) hosts Lorraine Badoy and Jeffrey “Ka Eric” Celiz for allegedly red-tagging him.

In a 36-page complaint, Casiño asked a Makati court to order the SMNI hosts to pay him P1.1 million in moral damages, P500,000 in exemplary damages, P500,000 in nominal damages, P100,000 in attorney’s fees, and the cost of the suit, GMA News reported.

Casiño also asked the court to order Badoy and Celiz – who were briefly detained by Congress over their report on the alleged P1.8-billion travel fund of Speaker Martin Romualdez -- to cease and desist from maligning and red-tagging him. Maricel V. Cruz

PBBM creates office for investment affairs PRESIDENT Marcos on Monday ordered the creation of the Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (OSAPIEA) to ensure effective integration, coordination, and implementation of various government investment and economic policies.

Through Executive Order No. 49, Marcos said the OSAPIEA would be under the Office of the President and it shall be headed by Presidential Adviser on Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick D. Go. The EO stated that the Go, as special adviser, shall serve as chairperson of the Economic Development Group (EDG), while the secretaries of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and Department of Finance (DOF) – Arsenio Balisacan and Benjamin Diokno, respectively -- will serve as vice chairpersons. Charles Dantes

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DBM okays P5b for BARMM rehab plans T

By Darwin G. Amojelar

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING IN DIVISORIA.

HE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Monday approved the release of a Notice Cash Allotment (NCA) worth P5 billion for the rebuilding, rehabilitation, and development of conflict-affected communities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Shoppers flock to Ilaya Street in Divisoria, Manila to buy holiday gifts on Monday, one week before Christmas day.

Norman Cruz.

The allocation—covering the Special Development Fund under the National Government’s provisions to Republic Act (RA) 11054 or Organic Law for BARMM—will be released annually for 10 years, from the ratification of the Organic Law for BARMM, or a total of P50 billion.

“Through this fund, we hope that the development of BARMM will continue. The administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. will never let go of supporting BARMM, especially in its transition process,” DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said.

The release of the fund under FY 2023 was approved following BARMM Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim’s submission

of the Cash Program containing the cash requirements and schedule for the programs/projects/activities (PPAs) to be funded under the Special Development Fund in the FY 2023 General Appropriations Act, RA No. 11936.

Pangandaman earlier reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support of the peace and advancement efforts in the BARMM by proposing a financial aid of P80.6 billion for FY 2024.

The proposed budget incorporates the BARMM’s Annual Block Grant of P70.5 billion; the Special Development Fund (SDF) of P5 billion; and the BARMM’s shares in national taxes, fees, and charges of P5.1 billion, pursuant to RA 11054.

Escudero: No cut in BI workers’ pay DepEd to start distributing P18k incentive to teachers with reimbursements to passengers

By Macon Ramos-Araneta SENATOR Francis Escudero has assured employees of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) that their salaries will not be affected by reimbursements to passengers due to long immigration assessments.

Addressing the issue on his social media account X (formerly Twitter) over the weekend, Escudero said there is nowhere in the 2024 General Appropriations Bill (GAB) that says that the funds to be used to repay the affected passengers will be coming from the budget for employees’ salary and augmentation allowances.

There is a provision in the GAB that allows the reimbursement of thousands of passengers who missed their flights due to long immigration assessments.

“Any diminution from the salary and augmentation of BI personnel is illegal and unauthorized,” Escudero said.

He reiterated that based on his proposal that was adopted in the final GAB, the reimbursement fund will come from the excess income of the BI that is being returned annually to the National Treasury.

“The money to refund offloaded passengers will not come from/nor will it be deducted from BI personnel,” he stressed.

QUALIFIED public school teachers and other personnel will receive P18,000 worth of Service Recognition Incentive (SRI) starting Tuesday, Dec. 19, the Department of Education (DepEd) said.

The DepEd, in a memorandum, said school division offices and other implementing units shall begin the processing of the payments on Monday and its distribution in cash the next day.

The DepEd said teachers in far-flung areas could be given an exception on the cash-only mode of SRI distribution upon their written request.

Their SRIs may thus be given through their payroll ATMs, the department said.

“All offices concerned with the processing and releasing the SRI are ex-

pected to expedite the payment subject to usual budget, accounting, and auditing rules,” the memorandum read.

The memorandum was reportedly signed by DepEd Undersecretary Michael Poa and DepEd Assistant Secretary Francis Bringas in compliance with Administrative Order No. 12 or the “Authorizing the Grant of Service Recognition Incentive to Government Employees for fiscal Year 2023,” as promulgated by the Office of the President.

The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT), meanwhile, called on DepEd to release the whole P20,000 SRI for teachers and personnel and not only the committed P18,000, GMA News reported.

“This is again below the allowable

amount of 20,000. This is happening over the past years already. Among all government agencies, only the DepEd is doing this. Teachers are once again deprived of having their deserved benefits on top of still being underpaid,” ACT national chairperson Vladimer Quetua, quoted by GMA News, said.

Quetua stressed that the national government should ensure that teachers and DepEd personnel will be able to get their benefits in full and on time.

“If DepEd fund are not enough to give every teacher a full 20k SRI, they should request DBM to fill the lacking amount as done in 2021. We demand the government to allocate more funding in order to give the full 20k that teachers deserve,” he added.

Zarah Juan’s empowering collection ‘The Tarp Project’ unveiled at SM Aura IN A remarkable collaboration of fashion, sustainability, and social impact, SM Supermalls, in partnership with women’s rights organization SPARK! Philippines, the Tagbilaran City Government, renowned fashion brand Zarah Juan, and the Pilipinas Shell Foundation, recently launched “The Tarp Project” at the Outside the Box pop-up shop at SM Aura.

“The Tarp Project” is a pioneering initiative aimed at economically empowering women and addressing environmental challenges associated with tarpaulin production. The project involves upcycling used tarps sourced from landfills in the province of Bohol and Shell gasoline stations. Bag designer Zarah Juan transforms these discarded materials into beautifully designed and meticulously crafted bags together with the women in Tagbilaran City who earn from the sale of these bags.

During the launch, Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap said, “What I’d like people to take away from this partnership is how it’s not just about upcycling used tarpaulins into material for the tote bags – it’s also about engaging with a local Tagbilaran community of women to put the bags together, it represents livelihood opportunity as well”.

SM Supermalls becomes a key partner in this endeavor by providing a physical space to showcase the bags in SM Aura and making them more widely available for purchase through its online shopping app, SM Malls Online. The partnership underscores the importance of multi-sectoral efforts in creating positive change and SM’s reaffirmation of supporting innovative and socially impactful initiatives.

“SM has always been a strong supporter of women’s empowerment. When you provide women with livelihood opportunities, you have an opportunity to positively change lives, uplift families, and build more resilient communities,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. “More than a venue to showcase these stylish upcycled totes, SM is honored to be part of a project that highlights women as catalysts for change, both for economic growth and environment protection,” Tan added.

Mikaela Luisa Teves, Executive Director of SPARK! Philippines, emphasized the importance of the partnership, saying, “The bags not only represent a unique and stylish accessory but also contribute to a larger mission of supporting women and mitigating the environmental impact of waste”.

“The Tarp Project” collection is available at Outside the Box, located at the Upper Ground Level of SM Aura, and on smmallsonline.com and zarahjuan.com.

‘The Tarp Project’ launch was marked with an unboxing by (from right): SM Supermalls president Steven Tan, SPARK! Philippines executive director Mikaela Luisa Teves, bag designer Zarah Juan, and Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap Fashion with a purpose. Zarah Juan and the women of Tagbilaran transform used tarpaulins – what could have been discarded waste in landfills—into these fashionable tarp tote bags.

(From left) Bag designer Zarah Juan, Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap, SM Supermalls president Steven Tan and SPARK Philippines executive director Mikaela Luisa Teves display the tote bags from The Tarp Project collection.

SPARK! Philippines executive director Mikaela Luisa Teves and Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. executive director Sebastian Quinones Jr.

Women at the Tagbilaran City Livelihood Center for Women and Out-of-School Youth meticulously work on each tarp tote bag.

SM Supermalls vice president for corporate marketing Grace Magno with her stylish upcycled tarp tote

Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. President Lorelie Osial at the launch of ‘The Tarp Project’ at SM Aura

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SC overturns lower court decisions, Reset bidding deadline for exonerates 2 men for phone ‘theft’ P171-b NAIA

rehab—Gadon

PRESIDENTIAL Adviser on Poverty Alleviation Secretary Larry Gadon on Tuesday said he has advised President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. to extend the bidding deadline for the P171-billion Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) rehabilitation project as the original deadline set by the Department of Transportation (DoTr) might “favor” only two bidders.

“Why the rush? That’s (a) P171billion project. May favored bidder ba ‘yan kaya ayaw magpa extension?

(Is there a favored bidder, reason for the refusal to extend?)” Gadon said.

“I sent a message of recommendation to the Office of the President expressing my adherence to the recommendation of the ADB (Asian Development Bank) to grant the suggested extension. After all, the ADB itself is the prime mover of this extension,” Gadon added.

Gadon noted that while there are 340 pages of bid documents to be accomplished and complied with by the bidders, the December 27 deadline appears to be “tailored fit” for a particular bidder.

“The extension will also avoid possible suspicion that a favored proponent is being tailored fit to grab the award . With the staggering cost of the project - P 171 billion-, the selection process must not create any suspicion of rigging,” he pointed out.

Two members of the House of Representatives have also urged the Department of Transportation (DoTr) to heed the advice of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to extend the bidding for the NAIA rehabilitation project for one month to ensure due diligence and to avoid perceptions of “favoritism.”

BFP modernization on track; gets 54 new firetrucks

By Jun David THE Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) says it has upgraded its firefighting capabilities with the acquisition of new fire trucks, ambulances, and other equipment.

According to BFP chief Louie Puracan, they recently received 54 new fire trucks distributed to the regions that needed them most.

Puracan said that next year, the BFP could expect more support from the national governmen’s continuing modernization program for essential services.

As part of the program, Congress is expected to allocate an additional P3 billion for BFP’s modernization, Puracan added.

Earlier, the BFP received an unmodified opinion from the Commission on Audit (COA) for the first time in the fiscal year of 2022 and it got a perfect score of 20.

Based on the COA report, the BFP received a 93 percent score with an equivalent rating of excellent from the first Financial Performance Rating report.

The COA favored the action since as part of the government’s modernization program, 54 new fire trucks were distributed to local BFP fire stations.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos said the newly purchased fire trucks with a 1,000-gallon capacity were distributed to fire stations that do not have sufficient firefighting equipment.

By Rey E. Requejo

T

HE Supreme Court (SC) has exonerated two persons charged with theft of a cellular telephone during a scuffle for a bus ride in Pasay City in 2017.

In a decision written by Associate Justice Samuel H. Gaerlan, the SC reversed the rulings of both the regional trial court (RTC) and the Court of Appeals (CA) that convicted Enrico N. Tijam and Kenneth R. Bacsid of committing the crime of theft as complained by Kim Mugot.

“Due to the prosecution’s failure to prove the petitioners’ guilt beyond reasonable doubt, their presumption of innocence, enshrined in the Constitution and

stringently guarded by the Court, must be upheld. Accordingly, the petitioners must be acquitted of the charge,” the SC ruling stated.

“Petitioners Julius Enrico Tijam and Kenneth Bacsid are hereby acquitted on the ground that their guilt was not proven beyond reasonable doubt. Let entry of judgment be issued immediately,” it said.

In his complaint, Mugot claimed that while he was rushing inside a bus along

with other commuters, he was pinned against the bus door by Bacsid. Mugot said he noticed his cellular phone was missing from his right pocket.

Mugot said he alighted from the bus and looked for Bacsid whom he found in the bus unloading area and receiving a cellular phone from Tijam. He shouted “magnanakaw” (thief) and a struggle ensued. The cellular phone fell to the ground and was damaged.

Tijam and Bacsid denied Mugot’s allegations. Tijam said he was on his way home when he met Bacsid. While exchanging pleasantries, Tijam said he noticed a cellphone on the ground, picked it up, and handed it to Bacsid.

The trial court convicted Tijam and Bacsid as it ruled that a person in pos-

session of a thing taken in the doing of a recent wrongful act is presumed the taker and doer of the whole act.

Tijam and Bacsid were sentenced to a prison term ranging from five months to two years They appealed but lost the case at the CA. They elevated the case to the SC. The SC reversed both the trial court and the CA verdicts.

“In this case, Tijam satisfactorily explained that he saw the cellular phone lying on the pavement, and thus picked it up. Such explanation is plausible in view of Mugot’s own narration that there was an onslaught of passengers rushing inside the bus, which could have caused him to drop his cellular phone,” the SC ruling read.

Villanueva hails passage of Bulacan ecozone measure

By Maricel V. Cruz

GIFT-GIVING HEIGHTENS AS CHRISTMAS DAY DRAWS NEAR. Various government agencies

officials led by Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., Metro Manila Development Authority chairman Romando Artes, Mandaluyong City Mayor Benjamin Abalos Sr., and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora oversee the distribution of Christmas gifts to the wards of Jose Fabella Center under the Lingap at Alagang Bayanihan (LAB) For ALL program of the First Lady Marie Louise Araneta-Marcos. Manny Palmero

Customs warns vs. scams on parcels ‘with money’

By Vito Barcelo THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) warns the public against scams involving parcels purportedly containing receiving money.

Customs spokesman Vincent Philip Maronilla issued the warning after an individual was victimized by a scammer who befriended him through the social media.

Maronilla said the scheme calls for the prospective victim putting up

some amounts to redeem a package ostensibly addressed to him but held up at the Customs.

He pointed out that very few people would send money through parcels, and often, these are small amounts from close friends and relatives.

The scammers would tell the victims that the parcels contained amounts of up to P1 million, Because of the substantial amount involved in the package, the victims’ are even tempted to borrow money

to raise the required amount.

Once the victim had send in the money for the purported Customs fee, his supposed online friend would cut off communications and the victim would be left holding the proverbial empty bag.

The BOC official advised the public to demand a bill of lading or airway bill before sending out any amount.

He said such documents have a tracking number that can be verified on the Customs website.

AN ANTI-CORRUPTION advocate in the House of Representatives has thanked his colleagues for supporting his proposal to ban gambling or gaming-related businesses within the proposed Bulacan economic zone.

Rep. Eddie Villanueva of Citizens Battle Against Corruption (Cibac) party-list group was referring to House Bill 8841 which was approved at the lower chamber before Congress went on a Christmas break last Dec. 13.

The measure adopted an amendment proposed by Villanueva which prohibits the Bulacan Airport City Special Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (BACSEZFA) from approving and registering any activity “that supports gaming or gambling, even if the same is regulated or licensed or allowed by Philippine laws.”

“The moral ills and damaging effects of gambling are so empirically pronounced and cannot be denied.

Gambling brings indebtedness, money laundering, prostitution, proliferation of drugs and crimes, reduced familial stability, marriage break-ups, and to name a few,” Villanueva stressed.

He said approval of the amended bill was a positive step toward pursuing “holistic and genuine development” without the moral setbacks.

“We aim to that through the Bulacan ecozone model, we might be able to show the world that genuine progress and affluence can be achieved through obedience to God’s Word and not by succumbing to the get-rich-quick formula of the world,” said Villanueva, an evangelist and president-founder of the Jesus Is Lord Church Worldwide.

Villanueva, a co-author of HB 8841, hails from Bocaue, Bulacan.

Manila Standard reporter Rada passes away at 55

HOMEWARD BOUND. The Christmas exodus to the provinces has started as bus terminals in Metro Manila see increasing surge of passengers on a daily basis. Norman Cruz

Ombudsman ousts mayor, 4 brgy. captains in Zamboanga del Norte

By Norman Cruz

BOYS WILL BE BOYS. These kids are too preoccupied with their iphones to be lured to the Christmas shopping attractions at a mall in Cubao, Quezon City. MannyM arcelo

THE Office of the Ombudsman (OMB) has ordered the dismissal of a town mayor, four barangay captains, and a village treasurer in Zamboanga del Norte for alleged grave misconduct.

Ordered dismissed from government service were Sindangan, Zamboanga Del Norte Mayor Rosendo Labadlabad, barangay captains Antonio Mohametano of Brgy.

Bago, Zosima Dela Cerna of Brgy.

Calatunan, Joselito Espinas of Brgy. Ramon Magsaysay, and Myzandro Dagondong of Brgy.

Mandih, and treasurer Rebecca Lafuente, also of Brgy. Bago.

A ten-page resolution handed down on May 16, 2023 but released to the media only last Dec. 15 also permanently disqualified the affected local government officials from holding any government position and forfeiting their retirement benefits.

The Ombudsman said the complaints against these officials were filed on Jan. 13, 2021 for their alleged issuance of permits to allow cockfights to be conducted within the barangays under the officials’ area but outside of a duly licensed cockpit.

JULITO Gardona Rada, a respected economic and business reporter at the Manila Standard for nearly 20 years, passed away on Dec. 16, 2023, at the age of 55.

He leaves behind his loving wife Jelina Sagcilo and daughters Trisha (22) and Jill Carla (13), along with four siblings. A wake is being held at Citio Curva, Poctol, Unisan, Quezon.

Rada, a resident of Amaya 1, Tanza, Cavite, suffered intracerebral hemorrhage (stroke) while on a taxi ride to his beat at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas on Dec. 14. He was brought to a barangay hall in Parañaque and hours later to San Juan de Dios Hospital in Pasay City, but succumbed to the stroke on Dec. 16.

Despite having overcome vasculitis, a rare blood vessel inflammation condition that limited his mobility during the pandemic, Rada remained dedicated to his craft. He continued diligently covering and writing about the macroeconomy, banking and finance until his sudden passing.

Joining the Manila Standard in May 2004, Rada quickly earned

a reputation for his meticulous research, accurate data-driven reporting and objective analysis of the economy and banking industry.

His colleagues admired his clear and concise writing style, while editors praised his integrity and fairness in tackling complex economic subjects.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Rada was known for his kindness, warm humor and willingness to help.

He leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, dedication and compassion, deeply remembered by friends, colleagues and the communities he touched through his insightful reporting.

Before joining Manila Standard, he had worked as a proofreader at Electronic Publishing Ventures Inc., Manila Chronicle and Insurance World Magazine.

He studied AB English with units in Secondary Education at the Mabini College in Daet, Camarines Norte from 1987 to 1991. He finished high school at Mercedes School of Fisheries and basic education at San Roque Elementary School in Mercedes, Camarines Norte.

A5

OPINION

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2023

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

Eagle Eyes Tony La Viña

EDITORIAL

Klima in Dubai sil fuels in energy systems.

This language is much more suggestive than it is definitive. It is understandable that many civil society globally and in the Philippines were disappointed with this outcome.

But as the Klima Team has written in the preliminary analysis we had published, we remain hopeful. It is not the language we have been lobbying for, but it is a step towards the lessening of the burning fossil fuels. It is a step towards mitigating the effects of climate change.

The text has language on tripling renewable energy capacity and the phase-down of unabated coal power.

Moreover, on the first day, a decision operationalizing loss and damage was adopted.

This has been the Klima priority for the last three years.

In Dubai, the Philippine Delegation did well.

Environment Secretary Toni Yulo-Loyzaga, head of our delegation, was hands-on in the negotiations. She was assisted ably by Climate Change Commission Vice-Chair Roberto Borje, Environment Undersecretary Analiza Teh, Energy Undersecretary Wimpy Fuentebella, Finance Undersecretary Alu Dorotan Tiuseco, and other officials.

Ambassador Leila Lora-Santos and other diplomats were also in the delegation.

Finally, we were fortunate to have lawyer Vice Yu, arguably among the best climate negotiators from developing countries, in our delegation.

For the first time in seven years, the Philippine Delegation was receptive to inputs of civil society. Among other, for the first time in almost a decade, the Delegation also had an official youth delegate in 17-year-old Javea Fernandez Estavillo, also affiliated with the Manila Observatory.

This engagement should be improved, including appointing more civil society experts and youth delegates in the official delegation.

On a personal basis, I see my own role in the climate process as a mentor and enabler.

For three decades now, I have mentored people to become more effective in their engagement.

I have done that with many in the delegation and in civil society organizations.

I worked also with youth delegates, like Javea and earlier, and with many scientists and lawyers through the years, including lawyer Yu and Undersecretary Teh. Lately, I have taken on new mentees like Valeree Nolasco and Asami Segundo, both promising leaders in this space.

The climate change challenge requires an intergenerational and whole of society approach. That is the Klima strategy.

THE 28th Conference of Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change was held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates from Nov 30-Dec 12, 2023.

More than 70,000 delegates attended COP 28, including heads of state and government, ministers and ambassadors, diplomats, other government officials, civil society representatives, leaders of indigenous peoples, environmental and climate justice activists, conservationists, local government officials, labor leaders, religious and faith based advocates, young peoples, business leaders, representatives of vulnerable sectors like people with disabilities, women, children, and fossil fuel and other lobbyists.

The Klima Team of Manila Observatory was in Dubai during the whole length of COP 28.

—“—

On a personal basis, I see my own role in the climate process as a mentor and enabler

I led our team composed of Hazel Acero, Jayvy Gamboa, Thea Uyguangco, Joy Reyes, and Bernardine De Belen. This was Joy’s third COP, Hazel’s second, and the first COP of Jayvy,Thea, and Bernardine.

In my case, this was my 23rd COP, having missed only five in the last 30 years. I have been a head of delegation, a lead negotiator, a facilitator, an academic, and an activist in these climate meetings.

We also adopted several colleagues from Parabukas, Ateneo de Naga, Tofu Creatives, etc in our delegation. In addition, Manila Observatory affiliated scientists Doctors Fay Cruz, Rosa Perez, and Monica Ortiz were technical advisers in the Philippine Delegation. Our own team had Klima’s resident senior scientist, Dr. Lau Jamero who is based in Bohol, continually gave us scientific and technical input.

Klima was there as a member of Allied for Climate Transformation by 2025 (ACT2025), a consortium of think tanks and experts led by the World Resources Institute. Our work in COP 28 was also supported, among others, by The Samdhana Institute.

In Dubai, the biggest issue was how to formulate the language of how to phase out fossil fuel phaseout, an imperative if we are going to address the climate change emergency, However, the language that was agreed at the end was more conservative, stating that countries called to transition away from fos-

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Citizen Barok

Louis ‘Barok’ Biraogo

Speaker Romualdez’s statesmanship IN A surprising turn of events, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has showcased a remarkable display of statesmanship and sportsmanship, declaring unequivocal support and respect for Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte.

The unexpected pronouncement, stemming from an encounter in Japan, where Romualdez was greeted by a Filipino worker rooting for VP Duterte, raises questions about the dynamics within the Philippine political landscape.

The video capturing this brief interaction has sparked mixed reactions among netizens, emphasizing the importance of unity and support within the government.

Romualdez’s response, acknowledging the placard’s message and extending support to the Vice President, serves as a testament to the Speaker’s commitment to fostering collaboration rather than perpetuating divisive narratives.

This diplomatic move by Romualdez is particularly notable given earlier rumors suggesting a strained relationship between him and Duterte.

While the origins of such speculations remain unclear, the Speaker addressed these rumors in July, asserting he and the Vice President are on amicable terms.

The recent incident in Japan, therefore, serves as a public reaffirmation of this camaraderie.

Romualdez’s statement -- “We should all support and respect the Vice President” -reflects a broader call for unity in the face of political differences.

By explicitly endorsing solidarity not only with Duterte but with all government officials, Romualdez sets an example of constructive engagement and mutual respect, transcending individual political affiliations.

In analyzing the circumstances that prompted this statement, it is evident Romualdez’s response was triggered by the unexpected encounter with the overseas Filipino worker in Japan.

The worker’s plea for support for VP Duterte served as a catalyst, prompting the Speaker to publicly reiterate his commitment to a collaborative and respectful political environment.

—“—

Romualdez’s call for unity and support, particularly directed at Vice President Sara Duterte, sets a positive precedent for political discourse in the Philippines

Romualdez’s act of extending support to Duterte, despite any prior speculation, underscores the importance of prioritizing the nation’s interests over personal or political differences.

This commitment to unity should resonate with Filipinos, urging them to move beyond divisive narratives and focus on the collective welfare of the country.

For Romualdez’s statesmanship and sportsmanship, he deserves commendation.

His ability to rise above rumors and publicly endorse cooperation with a political figure perceived as a potential rival demonstrates a maturity and commitment to

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Need for proactive diplomacy

C

converting the South China Sea into its territorial lake, reason it is using coast guard vessels which are huge and massive, equivalent to naval vessels, “to enforce domestic and criminal Chinese law in the whole of the South China Sea.”

HINA’S aggressive behavior in the South China, with its big coast guard vessels teeming in front of small Philippine ships on humanitarian missions, is pain in the backside which should alarm other countries.

—“—

There is a need to use active diplomacy by showing the international community how irresponsible China is, bullying a small neighbor like the Philippines

We heard Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro say the Philippines should continue its thrust towards “proactive diplomacy” and engagements with other like-minded countries in Southeast Asia and beyond.

That’s the art and science of maintaining peaceful relationships between nations, groups, or individuals.

The recent swarming by China of small Philippine vessels at the Ayungin Shoal strongly suggests an irresponsible behavior and underlines Teodoro’s belief Beijing is trying to change the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and international law.

What the Philippine defense chief is saying, in other words, is Beijing is

“This is part of their illegal narratives and this is part of their move to unilaterally pound into submission other countries to acquiesce into their definition of what international law

Open Thoughts Orlando Oxales

with respect to the law of the sea is,” he added.

China’s behavior should cause concern among peace-loving nations who should help the Philippines into exerting pressure on China into behaving responsibly and sensibly amid the continuing tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Teodoro has said it aptly that the whole world should be worried because “if the South China Sea is constricted

by China, then your supply chains are affected, international maritime order is affected, and for us in the Philippines, if we are not able to secure our EEZ, our existence as an archipelagic country under UNCLOS is in peril.”

We do not want to second guess what Teodoro has on his mind, but obviously he has with him the endorsing thoughts of national security officials.

We agree with him that while the Philippines should move the Chinese vessels out of our exclusive economic zone, that is easier said than done.

Which means there is a need to use active diplomacy by showing the international community how irresponsible China is, bullying a small neighbor like the Philippines, something it can as well do to other Southeast Asian nations that have territorial claims in the South China Sea.

Uniting against corruption

PEOPLE across the globe are victims of corruption.

For instance, 68 percent of EU citizens believe that corruption is widespread in their country, and 58 percent of them think government efforts to combat corruption are not effective (2022 European Commission Survey).

In the US, 56 percent of survey respondents said the government is corrupt (University of Chicago’s Institute of Politics 2022 survey).

In the Philippines, a survey among the country’s top business executives identified corruption as the biggest barrier to economic recovery (PricewaterhouseCoopers Philippines and the Management Association of the Philippines 2022 survey).

Corruption is like a wrecking ball, smashing into the very heart of our democratic institutions. It undermines our electoral processes, the rule of law, and the integrity of the bureaucracy.

Dec 9 was the annual celebration of International Anti-Corruption Day which called on the need to take action against corruption with emphasis on everyone’s role in promoting governance and accountability.

This is the context of the recent gathering on Dec 7 of over 21 organizations during the anti-corruption forum of the Stratbase ADR Institute and Democracy Watch Philippines where the need for a unified approach to tackle corruption in the wholeof-Philippine society was the unanimous consensus.

It was attended by a multi-sectoral spectrum of representatives from government, the private sector, academe, and civil society.

The participants were from: Department of Budget and Management, Anti-Red Tape Authority, Development Academy of the Philippines, Makati Business Club, Integrity Initiative, Institute of Corporate Directors, Ateneo School of Government, La Salle Institute of Governance, Legal Network for Truthful Elections, International Center for Innovation, Transformation and

Excellence in Governance, Asian School of Management, Philippine Trade Inc., CitizenWatch Philippines, Philippine Business for Environmental Stewardship, Bantay Konsyumer, Kuryente at Kalsada, and Universal Health Care Watch Philippines.

Stratbase ADR Institute President, Prof.

Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit in his opening statement said that to effectively combat corruption, a holistic and coordinated effort is required with a multi-pronged approach that addresses both prevention and enforcement.

“There must be sustained discussions on promoting transparency and accountability, making government processes and initiatives more open and inclusive to public discussion, creating mechanisms for oversight and monitoring, and implementing strong legal frameworks that hold individuals and organizations accountable for their actions,” Manhit said.

DBM Undersecretary Wilford Wong presented ongoing transparency and accountability initiatives such as the Open Government Partnership National Action Plan which supports collaborative engagements through strong multi-sectoral partnerships, and the “open and constructive exchange of thoughts which has led to implementing commitments that have positively affected bureaucratic efficiency, economic resiliency, and greater citizen participation in the country.”

Makati Business Club Executive Director Francisco Alcuaz, said to level the playing field and attract businesses who play by the rules, he called for stronger transparency policies such as the Freedom on Information law, Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth law (SALN Law), Anti-Money Laundering Laws, and the need to improve the Bank Secrecy law.

For the Chairman of the Integrity Initiative lawyer Alexander Cabrera, most important in fighting corruption is the policy in the private sector.

“We believe that the solution to corruption should be with the private sector and other partners because there will be no bribe taker if there is no bribe giver,” Cabrera said.

The Institute of Corporate Director’s incoming Chairman, lawyer Pete Mañiego cited the findings of studies on the direct correlation of transparency and accountability to company performance and shared values.

“Those who are transparent and accountable tend to foster a culture of trust, enhance stakeholder relationships, and ultimately contribute to the long-term sustainability of the organization,” Mañiego said.

Dr. Francisco Magno, Stratbase ADRi Trustee and Program Convenor posited five ways to deal with corruption through: Capacity-building, Collaboration, Public Awareness, Technology and Innovation, and Legal Reforms.

Corruption is a complex social, political, and economic phenomenon rooted in the human weakness to temptations.

Corruption affects all countries like a malignancy that undermines democratic institutions, slows economic development, and contributes to governmental instability.

There is, however, an opportunity to government institutions from both internal and external corruption actors by integrating digital technologies that will automate secure transparency and accountability solutions as anti-corruption barriers in the bureaucracy.

the democratic principles that underpin the Philippines.

As we reflect on this unexpected display of unity within the political spectrum, it is essential for Filipinos to draw valuable lessons.

First and foremost, political differences should not hinder collaboration for the greater good. Romualdez’s call for respect and support extends beyond individuals and parties, emphasizing the need for a united front to address the nation’s challenges.

Citizens should actively participate in fostering an environment where political leaders prioritize national interests over personal or party gains.

Romualdez’s example encourages Filipinos to engage in constructive dialogue and demand accountability from their elected officials.

Romualdez’s recent statement is a breath of fresh air in the often polarized world of politics. His call for unity and support, par-

ticularly directed at Vice President Sara Duterte, sets a positive precedent for political discourse in the Philippines.

As citizens, let us embrace this call for unity, prioritize the welfare of our nation, and demand the same commitment to collaboration from all our leaders.

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

—“—

Corruption is like a wrecking ball, smashing into the very heart of our democratic institutions

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A6

WORLD

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

HK’s Lai trial starts as US, UK demand his release HONG KONG – Pro-democracy tycoon Jimmy Lai went on trial in Hong Kong Monday on national security charges that could see him jailed for life, with the United States and Britain demanding his release.

Lai, 76, is accused of “collusion” with foreign forces under a sweeping national security law that Beijing imposed on the finance hub in 2020.

He is the founder of the nowshuttered Chinese-language tabloid Apple Daily, which often criticised Beijing and supported the huge protest movement that roiled Hong Kong in 2019.

The trial, which will continue into the New Year, is being closely watched as a barometer for Hong Kong’s political freedoms and judicial independence.

A rags-to-riches millionaire who made his fortune selling clothes before expanding into media, Lai will be tried without a jury and has been denied his first choice of lawyer. AFP

CONTINUING BOMBARDMENT. People inspect the damage in a room following Israeli bombardment at Nasser hospital in Khan Yunis in the

southern Gaza Strip on Sunday, amid ongoing battles between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The group Human Rights Watch accused the Israeli government of intentionally starving civilians in Gaza as part of its offensive in the besieged Palestinian territory. AFP

Israel faces mounting outrage over Gaza war I

SRAEL faced mounting international pressure Monday over the rising civilian death toll and destruction of hospitals in Gaza, as it pressed on with its war against Hamas militants in the besieged Palestinian territory.

The United Nations Security Council was set to vote Monday on a new resolution calling for an “urgent and sustainable cessation of hostilities” in Gaza.

The deadliest ever Gaza war began with unprecedented attacks by Hamas on Oct 7, when the group killed 1,139 people, mostly civilians, and abducted around 250, according to updated Israeli figures.

The health ministry in the Hamas-run territory says more than 18,800 people, mostly women and children, have been

killed in Israel’s campaign in Gaza. It said dozens were killed in Israeli strikes on Sunday.

Following months of fierce bombardment and fighting, most of Gaza’s population has also been displaced and people are grappling with shortages of fuel, food, water and medicine.

Fewer than one-third of Gaza’s hospitals are partly functioning, according to the UN, with the World Health Organization denouncing on Sunday the impact of Israeli operations on two hospitals in the north of the territory.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the agency was “appalled by the effective destruction” of the Kamal Adwan hospital, where Israeli forces carried out a multi-day operation against Hamas.

Outside the hospital courtyard, which showed tank and bulldozer tracks, Abu Mohammed, who came to look for his son, stood crying.

“I don’t know how I will find him,” he

said, pointing to the debris.

The Israeli army pulled out of the hospital on Sunday after an operation lasting several days, claiming it had been used as a command and control center by Hamas.

Israel said that before entering the hospital it had negotiated safe passage for the evacuation of most of the people inside.

The WHO also said Israeli bombing had reduced the emergency department at the Al-Shifa hospital to “a bloodbath.”

The Hamas-run health ministry said an Israeli strike on Sunday hit Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza’s main city of Khan Yunis, killing one person and injuring seven others.

And the ministry said Israeli forces had stormed Al Awda hospital in northern Gaza on Sunday and detained medical staff following several days of siege and bombing.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu again vowed to “fight until the end” on Sunday, promising to achieve the aims of eliminating Hamas, freeing all hostages

and ensuring that Gaza will never again become “a centre for terrorism”.

Near Gaza’s northern border crossing at the Israeli city of Erez, the Israeli army said it had uncovered the biggest Hamas tunnel so far.

An AFP photographer reported that the tunnel was large enough for small vehicles to use.

Israel said the tunnel cost millions of dollars and took years to construct, featuring rails, electricity, drainage and a communications network.

The Israeli army said five soldiers were killed on Sunday, bringing the death toll to 126 in the Gaza Strip since ground operations began in late October.

The Israeli government has come under growing pressure from the international community to pause the fighting and do more to protect civilians.

The United Nations estimates that 1.9 million Gazans -- around 80 percent -- have been displaced by the war. AFP

With pressure, UN Council to vote on new ceasefire call UNITED NATIONS, New York – The United Nations Security Council will vote Monday (Tuesday in Manila) on a new resolution calling for an “urgent and sustainable cessation of hostilities” in Gaza, as Washington exhibits growing impatience with key ally Israel.

The vote comes days after the United States blocked a previous Security Council resolution that would have called for a “humanitarian ceasefire” in the battered Palestinian territory, where Israel continues its deadly strikes in retaliation for Hamas’s unprecedented attack on Oct 7.

But in the General Assembly, the UN’s 193 members voted overwhelmingly for a ceasefire, with 153 in favor -- exceeding the 140 or so countries that have routinely backed resolutions condemning Russia for its invasion of Ukraine.

The upcoming Security Council resolution was introduced by Arab countries that had come away from last Tuesday’s General Assembly vote bolstered by such broad international support, though the latest text’s fate remains uncertain. AFP

Hundreds evacuated as flood disaster unfolds in Australia CAIRNS, Australia – Stranded residents sheltered on a hospital roof as flash floods swamped northeastern Australia on Monday, with raging waters severing roads and flushing crocodiles into towns.

Rescue teams evacuated more than 300 people overnight, police said, and military helicopters were dispatched to help inundated areas cut off by the floods.

Damage was reported along an expanse of coastline that stretched about 400 kilometers across northern Queensland state.

Resort manager Cassie Hounslow said entire houses were submerged in Mossman, a small inland town at the foot of the heritage-listed Daintree rainforest.

“Houses have gone under. I mean some

houses have been fully engulfed,” she told AFP. Tumbling boulders triggered by a landslide had “smashed one of the roads”, Hounslow said, and a major highway out of Mossman was “pretty much buggered”, she said.

With another deluge expected Monday, Queensland Treasurer Cameron Dick said the unfolding disaster would have a “billion-dollar impact” on the state.

Nine people, including a seven-yearold patient, huddled for safety overnight on the roof of a hospital in the largely Aboriginal settlement of Wujal Wujal.

“We know that those people are in a desperate way now,” said Kiley Hanslow, the chief executive of the Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council. AFP

N. Korea test-fires most advanced ICBM with US in range

NORTH Korea on Monday test-fired its most advanced intercontinental ballistic missile that has the potential to reach the United States, extending a record-breaking number of weapons tests this year and triggering further international condemnation.

Manila South Korea said the North fired an ICBM that used solid fuel, Standard which makes missiles easier to transport and faster to fire than liquidTODAY fueled versions.

Monday’s launch was the third time the North had tested a solidfuel ICBM, after launches in April and July, which analysts said signalled conNOTICE sistent efforts to improve the technology.

North Korea had said the previous two NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE ESTATE were “Hwasong-18” missiles but did OF THE LATE EDWIN not immediately comment on Monday’s JERRY L. TANG WAS launch.

E X T R A J U D I C I A L LY The United States, South Korea and SETTLED BY HEIRS Japan all quickly condemned the missile AS PER DOC. NO. 458; test, stating it was in breach of United PAGE 93; BOOK NO. II; Nations Security Council resolutions and SERIES OF 2022 BEFORE NOTARY PUBLIC ATTY. would make the Korean peninsula less ROE ANNE R. CADIZ OF secure.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol MAKATI CITY. ordered an “immediate and overwhelm(MS-DEC. 19/26, 2023/JAN. 2, 2024)

ing” countermeasure, and called for a joint response with the United States and Japan.

Japan’s defense ministry said the ICBM had a potential range of more than 15,000 kilometers, which would cover all of the United States. It followed a short-range missile launch on Sunday night. AFP

MOST POWERFUL. A pedestrian walks past a television screen broadcasting a news report on a North Korean missile launch, in Tokyo on Monday. A missile test fired by North Korea was an intercontinental ballistic class with a potential range covering all of the United States, Japan said. AFP

RAGING FLOODWATERS. This picture shows cars amid floodwaters at Cairns Airport in Cairns on Monday.

Flash floods swamped northeastern Australia with raging waters severing roads and flushing crocodiles into towns. AFP

Taiwan detects 2 Chinese balloons crossing sensitive median line again CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK TAIPEI – Two Chinese balloons flew istry said. across the sensitive median line separating “The balloons headed east and disapTaiwan from China, the self-ruled island’s peared at 09:36 and 16:35 respectively,” it Defense Ministry said on Monday, the added in a statement. second time it has reported a sighting this A defense ministry spokesman said an month. initial analysis showed they were weather Chinese balloons became a politically balloons. fraught topic in February when the United The sighting comes after the ministry States shot down what it called a spy bal- had said a balloon was spotted crossing the loon, but that Beijing said was a civilian median line of the Taiwan Strait on Dec 8. airship blown off course.

Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said While China has in recent years ramped at the time that it might be a sounding or up military and political pressure on self- a weather balloon that had drifted towards ruled democratic Taiwan, which it claims Taiwan on monsoon winds and that it as its territory, the appearance of balloons could be used for meteorological research is relatively rare. and data.

The two sightings were made at 09:03 Taiwan is on high alert ahead of presiand 14:43 on Sunday, around 110 nautical dential elections next month, with Taipei miles northwest of the city of Keelung after and Washington warning Beijing not to crossing the strait, Taiwan’s Defense Min- exert any influence over the vote. AFP

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DTI reminds OFWs to be vigilant against ‘balikbayan’ box scams T

HE Department of Trade and Industry-Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (DTI-FTEB) on Monday reminded overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to be vigilant when sending “balikbayan” boxes during the holiday season amid the influx of shipments.

The FTEB implements the accreditation of seafreight forwarders (SFF) as part of its mandate to protect consumers from fly-by-night or unaccredited companies and entities. It issued 736 SFF accreditation as of November 2023, of which 153 were engaged in Balikbayan box shipments.

It said it received and mediated 520 complaints involving undelivered boxes from 2018 to December 2023.

The agency said the public should

check the list of foreign freight forwarders and their DTI-accredited Philippine counterparts/agent on the DTI website.

It asked the public to take note of the items not allowed to be sent through balikbayan boxes such as currencies, checks, jewelries, firearms, ammunitions and explosives.

The FTEB asked OFWs to declare all the contents of the “Balikbayan” box per item and their corresponding value

in the packing list and secure shipping documents such as official receipt, cargo receipt, invoice, bill of lading, shippers’ declaration or waybill.

It said they should get the name and contact details of the foreign consolidator’s Philippine counterpart or agentfreight forwarder which should be accredited by the DTI and beware of exceptionally very low rates.

The DTI-FTEB said the public should guard against people posing as representatives of consolidators and should ask for proper identification, check with the consolidators if they are an employee or authorized to represent the said companies.

OFWs also should monitor the movement of the cargo from origin to

destination and ask the consolidators on how to procure insurance for the cargoes.

Consignees should check the cargo with the Philippine agent even before it arrives, it said.

DTI-FTEB director Fhillip Sawali said the public should transact with accredited SFFs, especially during the holiday season as their legitimacy could be verified.

Freight fowarders and firms found to be in violation of existing policies on balikbayan boxes will be penalized such as imposition of administrative fines, issuance of cease orders or suspension of cancellation of accreditation pursuant to applicable DTI rules, the agency said.

A day at the National Museum of Fine Arts Green Light

Francelle Lois Molinar

—“—

A trip to the National Museum is an immersive adventure open to all OUR class went on an enlightening journey to the National Museum of Fine Arts in Manila. Even though I had been there before, this visit was a different experience compared to the first one. We had a guide who helped us understand the stories behind the artwork, making the tour way more interesting.

What caught my eye No Entrance Fee Brings in More Friends: One remarkable thing about the museum is that they didn’t charge us to get in. This meant more people could come and see the pieces in the museum. It was nice because everyone could enjoy the museum, no matter how much money they had. I liked that a lot of different people were there, making it more fun and lively. It’s also a way to attract more people regardless of age. I noticed that most of the visitors were students, but there were also adults and the elderly. It just proves there is no age limit when it comes to museums and interest in history.

Newer Pieces to Look At: This time around, the museum expanded its offerings, incorporating newer artworks alongside historical pieces. The juxtaposition of old and new created a dynamic narrative, emphasizing that Filipino art isn’t confined to the past; it’s a living, breathing entity. The highlight of my visit was the painting “Filipino Struggles Through History” by National Artist Carlos “Botong” Francisco, a representation of Filipino resilience across challenges. The journey of this painting, from deterioration to restoration, mirrored the resilience depicted within it. As I look at the artwork, I can’t help but reflect on the collective strength of Filipinos throughout history and hope for a future where our struggles are recognized and addressed by the government.

A touch of Filipino essence Captions in Filipino: To enhance the experience, the museum could consider adding captions in Filipino alongside English. This simple addition would not only enrich the understanding of local visitors, but also encourage a broader audience to appreciate the cultural significance of the pieces. After all, it is our National Museum, and every Filipino should feel connected to its stories.

Engaging Activities for All: Drawing inspiration from my visit to the National Museum in Singapore, I hope our museum will have interactive elements. More QR codes, providing additional information when scanned, and headphones with audio descriptions would make the exhibits more accessible and enjoyable for everyone, including those with disabilities.

Conclusion: A Journey for Everyone In essence, a trip to the National Museum goes beyond merely observing artifacts; it’s an immersive adventure open to all. The absence of an entrance fee ensures more friends can join this exploration. The inclusion of both old and new exhibits broadens the horizons of our understanding of Filipino art.

Adding Filipino words and stories next to the art and incorporating interactive activities could transform the museum into a hub of engaging learning experiences. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have visited it, and I hope more people can partake in this enriching cultural journey.

The author is an MBA student at the Ramon V. Del Rosario College of Business of De La Salle University.

She wrote this reflection paper for her class on Integral Human Development. She can be reached at francelle_ molinar@dlsu.edu.ph.

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

PAYMENT PORTAL. Payments for traffic violations can now be made through Link.BizPortal, the online payment facility of the Land Bank of the Philippines which has been integrated into San Juan City’s webpage. LandBank joined San Juan City and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority in launching the Metro Manila Single Ticketing System (STS) on Nov. 15, 2023. Leading the launch are (from left) San Juan LandBank branch head Zenaida Rodenas, LandBank vice president Emelyn Justiniano, MMDA chairman Romando Artes, San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora (fourth from left), Land Transportation Office (LTO) regional director Noreen San Luis-Lutey, vice mayor Angelo Agcaoili and MMDA director Victor Nuñez.

Stock market flat as investors take profit after rally

By Jenniffer B. Austria PHILIPPINE stocks closed flat at the beginning of this week’s trading as investors started to take profit after last week’s rally.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index lost 2.94 points, or 0.05 percent, to close at 6,475.50, while the broader all-shares inched up by 6.59 points, or 0.19 percent, to settle at 3,416.14.

“The index closed slightly lower as selling pressure emerged in the 6,500 area,” China Bank Capital managing director Juan Paolo Colet said.

“In terms of technicals, the market is nearly overbought after last week’s rally, so some traders have started to take profits,” he said.

Value turnover reached P4.9 billion, while foreign investors posted a net inflow of P625.33 million.

Asian stock markets also fell Monday as traders took a step back following last week’s rally, with Federal Reserve officials looking to temper expectations the US central bank will cut interest rates several times next year.

Investors are also keeping tabs on the Bank of Japan’s meeting this week, though recent speculation that it will shift away from its ultraloose monetary policy has faded, with observers tipping a move in the new year.

Equities look set to end the year on a high after the Fed suggested it will begin loosening monetary policy after a string of data showed inflation coming down and the economy on course for a soft landing.

The Dow and Nasdaq hit record highs on Wall Street as tech firms surged, but the buying frenzy slowed Friday as investors took a step back, which analysts said was to be expected after the latest advances. With AFP

Zobel, Pangilinan, del Rosario to get Pope’s highest honors FIVE Filipinos, including three business leaders working closely with Caritas Manila, will receive the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice (For Church and Pope) commendation, one of the highest honors the Pope bestows on a layperson.

Ayala Corp.’s Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Caritas Manila’s Arnulfo Veridico, Metro Pacific Investment Corp.’s Manuel Pangilinan, PHINMA Corp.’s Ramon del Rosario Jr. and Union Bank of the Philippines’ Maria Gonzalez Goolsby will be conferred the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice commendation for their outstanding and generous service to the Church through Caritas Manila.

Manila Archbishop Cardinal José Advincula, in a letter sent to awardees, said: “You were nominated for your outstanding contribution as one of the key figures who through the years were consistently behind the success of the programs and activities of Caritas Manila.”

Caritas Manila is a nonprofit organization that serves as the lead social service and development ministry of the Catholic Church in the Philippines. The organization is geared towards total human development, poverty alleviation, and the creation of a Christian community with a strong social conscience.

Zobel, del Rosario and Pangilinan are part of the board of trustees of Caritas Manila.

Goolsby and Veridico, meanwhile, are longstanding supporters and volunteers of the organization.

Each of them will be conferred the Cross of Honor medal, which was instituted

by Pope Leo XIII in 1888 to commemorate his golden sacerdotal jubilee.

The Cross of Honor medal is the highest honor bestowed on the laity for services to the church and the Pope.

The conferment of Zobel, del Rosario, Pangilinan, Goolsby and Veridico will be held at the Manila Cathedral on Jan. 17, 2024.

Manulife China Bank launches combined life protection plan MANULIFE China Bank Life Assurance Corp.

(MCBL), the bancassurance partnership between Manulife and China Bank, recently launched AssureMax, a life insurance plan combining protection benefits with guaranteed returns that Filipinos can use to fund their children’s education, support their businesses or their passions, provide themselves a comfortable retirement, and other future needs and financial goals.

MCBL AssureMax, now available in 5- and 10year payment terms, offers guaranteed life protection equal to 200 percent of the face amount; a guaranteed cash payout that is 10 percent of the face amount every two years starting at the end of their seventh year for the 5-year variant, and starting at the end of the 11th year for the 10-year variant; and a guaranteed maturity benefit that is equal to 100 percent of the face amount paid out at the end of the policy term.

It comes with pre-selected or optional riders, such as accidental death benefits, payor’s benefits, hospital income benefits, and other non-guaranteed benefits.

“With high protection and guaranteed returns offered by AssureMax, we want to provide Filipinos a smarter way to save, wherever they may be in their life journey. AssureMax is designed for our customers who aim to save up to purchase a new home, finance their children’s education or prepare for their retirement while ensuring insurance coverage. AssureMax is also tailor-fit for those who simply want to grow their investments or diversify their financial portfolios so they can reach their life goals,” said MCBL president Neil Bowyer.

CLEAN WATER. About 1,800 Dumaguete City students benefit from potable water due to the new filtration system donated by property developer Filinvest Land Inc. The state-of-the-art water filtration system is now being used by South City Elementary School (SCES) in Barangay Mangnao, Dumaguete City. FLI Area general manager for Visayas John Paul Escario is present during the system turnover together with Barangay Mangnao chairman Ramel Tayko, Barangay Mangnao councilor Ricardo Valencia and FLI geographic planning head in Visayas Phil Calumpang.

BUSINESS

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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2023

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

BPI-Robinsons Bank merger gets Bangko Sentral approval THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) approved the planned merger between Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) of the Ayala Group and Robinsons Bank Corp. (RBC) of the Gokongwei family.

BPI said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Monday it received the BSP’s approval of the merger between the two banks, with BPI as the surviving bank subject to certain conditions.

“Upon the effectivity of the merger, BPI will be able to unlock various synergies across several products and service platforms, expand the customer and deposit base of both banks through the merged entity, and, at the same time, by capitalizing on BPI’s expertise

and network, enhance the overall banking experience of RBC customers,” BPI said.

BPI said this would also expand its client base, accelerate growth and ultimately increase shareholder value through partnerships with the Gokongwei Group.

RBC’s products and services cater to corporate, commercial and retail clients through 189 branches and branchlite units (including 14 branches and 14 branch-lite units of its subsidiary Legazpi Savings Bank), 354 ATMs and online and mobile banking channels.

Post-merger, RBC’s shareholders will hold about 6 percent of the resulting outstanding capital stock of BPI. Jenniffer B. Austria

LEARNING MODULES. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Monetary Board member Romeo Bernardo (third from left) turns over financial education modules for civilian and uniformed personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to Deputy Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Charlton Sean Gaerlan (second from left) during the ‘Financial Education Stakeholders Congress’ in November in Pasay City. The BSP also launched fin-ed modules for technical vocational education and training learners of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) during the congress. Developed with support of BDO Foundation, the modules impart practical skills for personal finance management.

Citicore Renewable files for P12.9-b IPO Globe upgrades platform to verify C SIM card data

By Jenniffer B. Austria

ITICORE Renewable Energy Corp. (CREC), one of the country’s major solar power producers, plans to raise up to P12.9 billion from an initial public offering in the first quarter of 2024.

CREC said in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission it planned to offer up to 2.9 billion common shares with an over-allotment option for another 435 million common shares at P3.88 apiece.

It said it would use the net proceeds

from the offering to fund solar energy projects and battery energy storage systems in the pipeline.

CREC has installed capacity of 285.1 megawatts (MW) accounting for 19 percent of country’s renewable capacity of 1.5 gigawatts.

The company has a pipeline of renewable greenfield energy projects with a gross capacity of 6,446 MW in solar power generation and 812.5MW in onshore wind power generation in various stages of development.

CREC agreed in November to acquire the 100-percent stake in Rio Norte Hydropower Corp., which is building a run-of-river hydro project with a gross installed capacity of 25.7 MW in Isabela province.

The acquisition is expected to be completed by January 2024.

CREC said over the next couple of years, it expected its capital expendi-

tures to increase significantly to fund the commissioning of projects awarded to the company under the Green Energy Auction Program 2 and invest in other renewable energy technologies.

It aims to contribute about 1 GW of solar energy capacity annually over the course of 2023 to 2027, contributing to the national targets of increasing renewable energy capacity in the energy mix.

It said it would launch the offering on March 4 to March 8, 2024.

The shares will be listed in the main board of the Philippine Stock Exchange on March 15, 2024, subject to regulatory approvals.

PH calls for stronger, innovative economic partnership with Japan

By Othel V. Campos THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) called for a strengthened innovative economic partnership with Japan during the Creative and Sustainable Economy Through Innovation event held at the Imperial Hotel Tokyo on Dec. 17, 2023.

Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual underscored the significant contribution of the Philippine creative industry in fostering robust and inclusive economic growth, aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“Our strategic collaboration with Japan aims to foster dynamic and innovative economies for both countries.

3 power firms plan to bid for Meralco’s 1,200-MW supply

By Alena Mae S. Flores THREE power generators expressed interest to participate in the competitive selection process (CSP) or bidding for the 1,200-megawatt (MW) baseload requirement of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco).

The three companies, which submitted expressions of interest and attended the pre-bid conference on Monday, are First Natgas Power Corp. of the Lopez Group and San Miguel Corp.led Limay Power Inc. and South Premiere Power Corp.

Meralco expressed hope the interested firms would submit formal bids on Jan. 23, 2024. The distributor announced early this month it would invite bidders for its 1,200-MW baseload requirement to ensure continued availability of sufficient and reliable supply for customers.

This followed the Department of Energy’s (DOE) issuance of a certificate of conformity on the terms of reference (TOR) for the 15-year power supply agreement/s which would be effective once approved by the Energy Regulatory Commission.

The TOR states that pursuant to the DOE’s advisory on the conduct of CSP for power supply using indigenous natural gas as transition fuel, “power suppliers with natural-gas fired power plants are highly encouraged to participate in the bidding”.

These groundbreaking collaborations showcase the boundless potential of our creative industries in propelling inclusive growth and our collective pursuit of sustainable development,” Pascual said at the sidelines of the ASEAN-Japan 50th Year Commemorative Summit in Tokyo.

The DTI, through the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) Tokyo, highlighted the collaborative efforts between the Philippines and Japan in advancing a sustainable economy rooted in innovation.

Pascual lauded the four pioneering Philippine-Japan projects, including collaboration on game development, food, textiles and fashion design.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual advances mutually beneficial economic collaborations between the Philippines and Japan at the ASEANJapan Economic Co-Creation at the Roppongi Academy Hills. He presented the Philippines as a robust economic partner, citing its young workforce equipped with skills for the Industry 4.0 economy. Pascual also underscored the forum’s alignment with the ASEAN-Japan Economic Co-Creation Vision and the Future Design and Action Plan for Innovative and Sustainable ASEAN-Japan Economic Co-Creation 20232033.

Filinvest, ENGIE team up to construct 13 MW of new solar projects FILINVEST-ENGIE Renewable Energy Enterprise Inc. (FREE) and Philippine DCS Development Corp. (PDDC) expect to complete three solar projects with a combined capacity of 13.68 megawatts (MW) by 2024 to 2025.

FREE is a joint venture of Filinvest Group, one of the Philippines’ largest diversified conglomerates and ENGIE, a global leader in low-carbon energy and services.

The solar projects will power the facilities of Cemex, Nexperia and Merasenko Corp. and provide 11,400 refrigeration tons (RT) of sustainable cooling capacity for Festival Supermall in Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa.

“ENGIE and Filinvest have been working in partnership to advance the Philippines’ sustainability goals since 2015. ENGIE is proud to be part of these new initiatives, which build upon the positive impact we have already made together in improving access to renewable energy, reducing CO2 emissions, and fostering more environmentally sustainable economic development in the country,” said ENGIE South East Asia chief executive Thomas Baudlot.

The largest of the three solar projects is a 10.08-MW ground-mounted solar array with cement producer Cemex through subsidiary APO Cement Corp.

The project in Naga City, Cebu is projected to avoid more than 9,000 metric tons (MT) of CO2 annually. It carries a 25-year power purchase agreement over the life of the contract. It is part of Cemex’s Future in Action program, which aims to cover 65 percent of its electricity consumption with clean energy by 2030.

“Filinvest and ENGIE, through the services offered by our joint ventures, FREE and PDDC, are proud to help companies from energy-intensive industries to achieve their sustainability goals,” said FDC Utilities Inc. and FREE president Juan Eugenio Roxas.

Alena Mae S. Flores

By Darwin G. Amojelar GLOBE Telecom Inc. said Monday it upgraded its SIM registration platform to enable data verification to deter fraud.

“With improved verification, Globe will be able to immediately weed out fraudulent submissions and avoid issues we had to confront in the first year of SIM registration, including the use of fake IDs and fraudulent information,” Globe Group general counsel Froilan Castelo said.

“Our goal is to complete validation within 24 hours, and we’ll continue to fine-tune our solution as we test out this process,” he said.

Globe said this was in line with fresh guidelines from the National Telecommunications Commission, after tests showed how fraudulent IDs and details passed telcos’ SIM registration platforms.

It would bolster the platform’s existing security features such as optical character recognition, its data-matching capability that compares information between SIM users’ IDs and submitted forms and the selfie requirement.

Globe said it also started undertaking vigorous verification of SIM registration data covering an estimated 61.4 million SIM users, with the review expected to be finished within 2024.

“In light of red flags that law enforcement authorities raised on the vulnerabilities of telcos’ SIM registration platforms, this stringent review aims to retroactively remove questionable submissions.

With this step and our improved verification for all future submissions, our goal is to ensure the integrity of SIM registration data,” Castelo said.

ERC plans to raise secondary price cap in the electricity market to lure investors

SHARE THE LIGHT. McDonald’s Philippines (Golden Arches Development Corp.) returns with its partner Coca-Cola Philippines to brighten the holiday season for communities through ‘Share the Light’ celebrations and 1.5 million pieces of Happy Meal toys to be turned over to different communities nationwide. ‘Share The Light’ is an initiative of McDonald’s Philippines and Coca-Cola Philippines which aims to spread kindness and cheer to partner communities.

THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) plans to raise the secondary price cap in the spot market to P9.8526 per kilowatt-hour from P6.245 per kWh. It said in its draft rules the SPC would be initially set at P9.8526 per kWh as proposed by the Philippine Independent Power Producers Association Inc. (PIPPA), subject to updating.

The ERC imposed an SPC of P6.245 per kWh on the breach of the P9-perkWh rolling average price over three days at the electricity spot market to protect the public and prevent the repetition of excessive and unreasonable high market prices.

“In order to address the need for longterm supply and promote competition in the generation sector, there is a need to revise the methodology of determining

the secondary cap and the conditions that will trigger its implementation,” it said.

PIPPA president and executive director Anne Estorco Montelibano said the P9.8526 per kWh would be imposed in the event the ERC is not yet inclined to fully rescind the SPC. “The alternative contains parameters in calculations, and we are proposing automatic adjustments,” Montelibano said.

The ERC has been reviewing the SPC at the spot market, which was first implemented a decade ago to protect consumers from the unwarranted increase in electricity prices brought about by inherent volatile market price movements at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market. Alena Mae S. Flores

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SPORTS

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2023

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

Former NBA G League player faces murder charge

San Beda main man Jacb Cortez celebrates the Red Lions’ title conquest.

Red Lions’ coach Escueta: We believed in each other

By Peter Atencio

T

HE San Beda Red Lions were not expected to go this far in season 99 of the National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament and win the title.

But after winning four straight games towards the end of the elimination round, the fortunes of the Red Lions finally turned around.

The Red Lions ended up as the thirdseeded squad in the Final Four, where they brushed past the second-seeded Lyceum Pirates to remain undefeated after six games and reach the finals against the Mapua Cardinals.

Losing in Game 1, 68-63, before bouncing back in Game 2, 65-71, the Red Lions found the right personnel in Game 3 to win the crown over the Mapua Cardinals, 76-66, on Sunday at

the Araneta Coliseum.

“Not to be arrogant, but in our circle, we know our capabilities and have each other’s back,” said San Beda coach Yuri Escueta moments after their series and title-clinching win.

“Yes, there’s stuff that comes out of the media but the important thing is, our belief in each other,” he added.

The Red Lions left their fate in the hands of reserve player James Payosing in the fourth quarter to grab their 23rd crown. Payosing, a third-year wingman, was adjudged Finals’ MVP following his heroics in the last min-

Qatar-based swimmer dominates local field QATAR-BASED Arvin Taguinato came up with a very fast time in the age-group swimming events in Day 1 of the Philippine Sports CommissionPhilippine National Games/ Batang Pinoy meet at the Teodoro Yldelfonso Swimming Pool here.

The 12-year-old Taguinato, who represents Pasig, came up with a time so fast, it was within range of a national record with his clocking of two minutes and 25.20 seconds in the 8-12 year old, 200-meter individual medley event.

Taguinato’s performance was much lower than what local swimmers submitted and it came within two seconds the Philippine mark of 2:22, which Jonathan Divinagracia hit way back in 1997 during a Kaohsiung event.

The clocking was 20 seconds ahead what Johan Pablo Gomez of Aklan submitted (2:45.74) for the silver and that of Ilocos Sur’s Allen Pico, who settled for the bronze in 2:46.44.

“Competition is harder in the Philippines, there’s not a lot of fast swimmers there (Qatar), but the swimmers here are very strong,” said Taguinato, a Grade 7 student from King’s College in Doha.

Taguinato, who started swimming at age six, arrived in the Philippines last week with his father who works for Qatar Energy.

He will once again try his luck in the 100-meter backstroke, 50-meter backstroke, 100-meter butterf ly, the 50-meter medley and freestyle relays, under the watchful eyes of Pasig head coach, multi-titled swimmer Jhessie King Lacuna and personal mentor Sherwin Santiago.

Earlier, veteran age grouper James Rey Ajido of Mandaluyong swam without the usual wetsuit after it got torn but still earned the gold medal in the 13-15 200-meter boys individual medley.

Ajido was one second off his personal best with his first-place finish of 2:15.30, with La Union’s Anton Della trailing in second (2:16.53), and with Aishel Evangelista (Caloocan City) in third with his time of 2:18.34.

Lucena’s Peter Cyrus Dean snared the gold medal in the 16-17 years, 200-m IM action, taking the gold in 2:16.66, while Mandaluyong’s John Ramores (2:18.85) and Jared Cuison of of Quezon City(2:19.82) were second and third respectively.

Peter Atencio

utes of the game.

Escueta sent Payosing in after key players Jacob Cortez and Yukien Andrada struggled with cramps in the final period.

“Knowing James, lagi niyang kasama si Jacob. Kaya hindi niya masyadong expect iyung nangyari sa kanya.

Dahil gusto rin niyang manalo ng title,” said Escueta.

The Red Lions turned things around in the closing minutes of the game, off a couple of free throws by Payosing followed by an Andrada triple and a Cortez jumper, which handed the Red Lions a 68-61 edde.

“Everyone is happy for him (Payosing). He is deserving. He stepped up during the fourth quarter,” added Escueta, who gave Payosing the role of playing backup to Cortez and Andrada should they ever get into trouble during games.

“Personally, of course, I’m happy.

At the same time, I’m very happy for

my players. These are the guys who stayed and said to themselves, ‘This is us, we’re going to work hard for this,’” added Escueta.

Payosing, who did not see much action last year because of a fractured left hand, did not have much expectations during the game, except to help keep the Red Lions afloat while Cortez recovers from cramps.

“Hindi ko in-expect kasi inalam ko lang yung role ko. ‘Yung main man namin si Jacob, ‘yung front talaga namin, at ako lang sa likod ni Jacob na umalalay sa kanila sa team. Kung ano ‘yung role ko, rebounder, defender, ‘yung mga scoring, bonus na lang ‘yan sa mga rebounds,” said Payosing, who finished with 11 points and 14 rebounds in the Game 3.

Andrada tallied 20 points and six rebounds while Cortez, who felt cramps in the third quarter, added eight points and eight assists.

LOS ANGELES—Chance Comanche, an NBA G League player with the Stockton Kings, will be charged with open murder in the death of a 23-year-old woman who went missing in Las Vegas, police said Sunday.

Comanche was released by the Sacramento Kings’ G League affiliate based in Stockton, California, on Friday after he was apprehended in California on a kidnapping charge.

Sakari Harnden, 19, was arrested on a kidnapping charge in Nevada and Las Vegas police said in a statement on Sunday that both she and Comanche will now be charged with murder after the remains of Marayna Rodgers, a medical assistant from Washington state who was last seen in the Las Vegas area, were found in a desert area near Henderson, Nevada.

Rodgers was reported missing on December 7.

“Early in the investigation, detectives suspected foul play and obtained evidence to arrest Harnden and her boyfriend Comanche for their role in the kidnapping and disappearance of Rodgers,” Las Vegas police said in a statement, adding that information received after the arrests had allowed them to find and identify Rodgers’s remains. AFP

Chance Comanche

NLEX taps Uichico as lead assistant

Jong Uichico

NLEX announced that ninetime PBA champion coach Jong Uichico will be joining the Road Warriors as the team’s first assistant coach effective immediately.

Uichico, who is tied with Chot Reyes and Leo Austria as the third winningest coach in PBA history, will bring with him his incomparable experience as he will aid head coach Frankie Lim and lead a strong cast of assistant coaches to strengthen

NLEX’s bid to win its first-ever franchise title.

The 61-year-old tactician entered the PBA back in 1993 as an assistant coach with the San Miguel Beermen. He would lead that team to six championships before winning two more as the lead tactician of Ginebra.

He had a consultant stint with Meralco and was briefly an assistant coach in TNT before he was promoted to head

coach and helped the franchise win the 2015 PBA Commissioner’s Cup. Uichico holds the position as the head of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Coaches’ Academy and has been a long-time coach in the Gilas Pilipinas program. He was on the bench when the team recaptured the SEA Games and Asian Games gold medals in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and Hangzhou, China.

Fighting Maroons bring toys and joy to UP-PGH kids THE UP Men’s Basketball Team ippine General Hospital (UP(UPMBT) spread the holiday PGH) Pedia Ward on Friday. spirit to the kids at the UP-PhilTogether with nowheretogo-

UP Maroons team captain CJ Cansino leads the gift giving

butUP Foundation, the Fighting Maroons, led by team captain CJ Cansino and veteran Gerry Abadiano, surprised the kids with toys and gifts from Toys R Us. “Nakakataba ng puso na maging part ng ganito and makapagpasaya ng mga bata,” Cansino said. “Everyone’s fighting their own battles and it’s our time to show them that we’re in this together.” ºBack in 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the UPMBT hopped on a Zoomustahan session with UP-PGH staff and frontliners.

This time, the Fighting Maroons were able to personally meet and thank the hospital’s medical staff and frontliners and wish them Merry Christmas.

UP-PGH Director Dr. Gerard Legaspi welcomed the Fighting Maroons and thanked the team for taking time to visit the UPPGH Pediatric Ward.

“We are so happy to have our Fighting Maroons here with us today, spending time with the children under our care, spreading love and joy this holiday season. Hopefully, this is the first of many times we’ll do this. #UPFight!” Dr. Legaspi said.

NowheretogobutUP Foundation founding chairman Renan B. Dalisay also shared how important this immersion and giftgiving activity is to the Fighting Maroons.

“We want the Fighting Maroons to have this meaningful experience of getting to know and giving back to the people we play for. Ngayon, tapos na ang mga UAAP games, serbisyo muna uli,” Dalisay said.

“Manalo o matalo, UP will keep serving. We will keep on fighting. ‘Yan ang Tatak UP, ‘yan ang mga Iskolar-Atleta para sa bayan” he added.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Manila

Republic of the Philippines Standard Regional Trial Court

VERIFICATION / CERTIFICATION AGAINST FORUM SHOPPING

TODAY

NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION Quezon City, Metro Manila Email: rtc1qzn223@judiciary.gov.ph Contact nos.: (02) 567-15282 BRANCH 23 YMAZ BUILDERS CORPORATION, Plaintiff, -versus-

CIVIL CASE NO. 23-03173-CV FOR: Rescission of Contract and Damages

JOECYPHINE TADO PAGADUAN, Defendant. x---------------------------------------------------x

SUMMONS WHEREAS, on September 4, 2023, the plaintiff, through counsel, filed a Motion for Leave to Serve Summons by Publication to Defendant JOECEYPHINE TADO PAGADUAN; WHEREAS, on October 27, 2023 the Honorable CARIDAD M. WALSE-LUTERO, Presiding Judge of this Court, issued an Order granting Motion for Leave to Serve Summons by Publication to Defendant JOECYPHINE TADO PAGADUAN;

I, CRISTENE CHERRY CABUCOS, of legal age, Filipino, and residing at 18 July Ext. St., Bahay Toro, Quezon City, after having been duly sworn in accordance with law, hereby depose and state: 1. I am the Operations Manager and duly authorized representative of the plaintiff corporation in the aboveentitled case; 2. The plaintiff has caused the preparation of the foregoing Complaint; 3. I have read the same and the contents thereof are true and correct of my own personal knowledge and based on authentic records; 4. I certify that the plaintiff has not commenced any other action or filed any other claim involving the same issues in any other court, tribunal or quasi-judicial agency; or to the best of my knowledge no such action or claim is pending therein;

NOW THEREFORE, Defendant JOECYPHINE TADO PAGADUAN, is hereby summoned and required to file with Branch 223, Regional Trial Court, Quezon City, his Answer to the Complaint filed against him, within sixty (60) days after the last publication of this Summons, serving a copy thereof upon the plaintiff’s counsel, ATTY. JOSELITO A. OLIVEROS at 163-A Kamias Road, 1101 Quezon City. Upon failure on their part to do so, as aforesaid, plaintiff will take judgment against him by default and demand from said Court reliefs prayed for in its Complaint.

5. I hereby undertake to notify this Honorable Court within five calendar days from notice should I learn that a similar action or claim has been filed or is pending before any of the said court, tribunal or agency;

Let this Summons together with the Complaint and its annexes be published by the plaintiff, at its expense, once a week for two (2) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of daily circulation to be selected by raffle by the Office of the Clerk of Court of the Regional Trial Court of Quezon City.

7. The factual allegations in this Complaint have evidentiary support and/ or, will likewise have evidentiary support after a reasonable opportunity for discovery.

6. This case is not filed to harass, cause unnecessary delay or needlessly increase the cost of litigation; and

FURTHER AFFIANT SAYETH NAUGHT. WITNESS, the HON. CARIDAD M. WALSE-LUTERO, Presiding Judge, Regional Trial Court, this 7th day of October 2023.

(Sgd.) CRISTENE CHERRY CABUCOS Affiant Driver’s License No. N02-13-013586 Issued by the LTO in Quezon City and expires on May 14, 2024

(Sgd.) ATTY. JANELLE C. MUPAS Branch Clerk of Court V

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION QUEZON CITY, BRANCH___ YMAZ BUILDERS CORPORATION, Plaintiff, - versus -

SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN to before me this 28th of March 2023 at Quezon City, Philippines, affiant exhibiting to me her identification document above indicated.

Notary Public UNTIL DECEMBE 31, 2023

CIVIL CASE NO. R-QZN-23-03173-CV For: Rescission of Contract and Damages

(Sgd.) ATTY. ELISEO S. CALMA, JR. Notary Public for Q.C./ Until Dec.31, 2024 Roll No. 50183 PTR No. 4007172D /.Jan. 03, 2023/Q.C. IBP No. 257225,Jan. 01, 2023 MCLE Comp. No. Vll-0006924 (09/21/202104/14/2025) Adm. Matter No. NP-062(2022-2023) 20 Kamagong St., Sapamana Vill.

East Fairview Q.C..

TIN: 138--541-197-000

JOECYPHINE TADO PAGADUAN, Defendant. x--------------------------------------------------x

COMPLAINT PLAINTIFF, through counsel, comes and respectfully states the following: 1. It is a corporation duly organized and existing under Philippine laws with principal office at No. 129 Congressional Avenue, Brgy.

Bahay Toro, Project 8, Quezon City and herein represented by its Operations Manager, Ms. Cristene Cherry Cabucos as evidenced by a Secretary’s Certificate copy of which is attached in her Judicial Affidavit as Annex “A”.

2. Defendant is of legal age, a Filipino, civil status unknown, and with known address at No. 22 Sampaguita St., East Bagong Barrio, Caloocan City. She does business under the name and style “JATP Glass and Aluminum,” a business name registered in her name.

3. Plaintiff needed aluminum and wood composite panels for its project at No. 888 Gonzalo Puyat St., Quiapo, Manila, consisting of the proposed 35 units of 4-storey residences. Defendant represented that she can deliver and install the same so she sent the plaintiff her quotation for the needed wood composite panels (“WCP”) and the aluminum composite panels (“ACP”) on 26 November 2021 and on 25 October 2022, respectively (copies attached in Ms. Cabucos’s Judicial Affidavit as Annexes “B” and “C”, respectively).

4. After some haggling defendant agreed to give the plaintiff a little discount on both WCP and ACP and so the parties formalized their agreement by signing two “Construction Contract( s),” one for the WCP (copy attached to Ms. Cabucos’s Judicial Affidavit as Annex “D”) and the other for the ACP (id., Annex “E”).

5. In the contract for the ACP (Annex “E,” supra) payment by the plaintiff, in the amount of Php40,000.00 was made but no delivery / installation by the defendant were made. As regards the contract for the WCP (Annex “D,”, supra) the plaintiff made full payment of the contract price of Php1,100,000.00 as follows: a. Php330,000.00 -

initial downpayment made last 13 December 2021 as evidenced by Metrobank Check No. 4121660071 issued to the defendant and encashed by her (copy attached as Annex “F” in Ms. Cabucos’s Judicial Affidavit);

b. Php220,000.00 - paid to the defendant on 25 May 2022 (evidenced by Metrobank Check No. 4121663899, copy of which is attached to Ms. Cabucos’ Judicial Affidavit as Annex “G” thereof); and c. Php550,000.00 - paid to the defendant on 22 June 2022 (evidenced by Metrobank Check No.121667883 paid to the defendant and encashed by her copy of which is attached as Annex “H” of Ms. Cabucos’s Judicial Affidavit) .

Doc. No.: 82; Page No.: 16; Book No.: IX-B; Series of 2023.

CIVIL CASE NO._________

JOECYPHINE TADO PAGADUAN, Defendant. x------------------------------------------------------x

JUDICIAL AFFIDAVIT This is the Judicial Affidavit of witness CRISTENE CHERRY CABUCOS, 38 years old, Filipino, and residing at 18 July Ext. St. Bahay Toro, Quezon City. The examining lawyer is Atty. Joselito A. Oliveros with address at No. 163-A Kamias Road, Quezon City where the examination was conducted. The questions (Q’s) by examining lawyer and Answers (A’s) by the witness were propounded and given in English, a language known to both examining lawyer and witness as follows: Offer of Testimony (Atty. Oliveros): The testimony of this witness is offered to prove that she is the Operations Manager and duly authorized representative of the plaintiff; that she was the one who actively handled plaintiff’s subject transactions with the defendant; and that through her the facts alleged in the Complaint in this case will be proven. In the process of her testimony she will also identify, testify on, and authenticate the documentary evidence of the plaintiff.

1. Question to the Witness (Q): Are you fully conscious that the questions I will ask and that the answers you will give me will be later put in writing, that you will later affirm the truthfulness of your answers, under oath before a notary public which you will re-affirm under oath also before the Regional Trial Court of Quezon City, and that you may face criminal liability for false testimony or perjury if you commit any falsehood therein?

3. Q: Why?

2. Q: Do you know the plaintiff in this case?

A: Yes, sir.

A: I am its Operations Manager since 2018 up to the present and also its duly authorized representative in this case, sir.

8 The Construction Contracts involving the WCP (Annex “D,” supra) ‘and the ACP (Annex “E,” supra), which defendant breached, should be declared rescinded.

A: Plaintiff is a corporation duly organized and existing under Philippine laws with principal office at No. 129 Congressional Avenue, Brgy. Bahay Toro, Project 8, Quezon City.

6. Q: How about the defendant, do you know her?

11. Forced to litigate to enforce its rights plaintiff incurred, and shall further incur, litigation-related expenses in the total estimated sum of Php500,000.00 which defendant must pay.

a. Defendant had requested full payment of the contract price under the pretext that the price of the materials is about to increase so she needed to make all the needed purchase. That was why plaintiff made full payment.

17. Q: After these, what happened next?

A: Thereafter, we did not hear from the defendant for almost eight months. Defendant showed up at the construction site only on 2 February 2023 when she prompted to finally do and finish the construction task. Defendant also had a similar conversation with me on 13 February 2023 but after that and up to now defendant has not done what she was bound to do under the contract and has not communicated anymore with us, forcing us to have another contractor accomplish the abandoned projects last 7 March 2023 since we could incur economics losses if they are further delayed.

18. Q: What does your company now want this Honorable Court to do in this case?

A: We want the Honorable Court to render a decision ordering the defendant to return to us our Php 1,077,143.00; pay us defendant’s agreed liability for the delay in the amount of Php33,040.00; exemplary damages of Php500,000.00; attorney’s fees and litigation expenses of Php500,000.00; and the cost of suit.

19. Q: How did you arrive at the figure of Php1,077,143.00?

A: The amount is broken down as follows: Php1,100,000.00 – we paid for the WCP contract; Php 40,000.00 – we paid for the ACP contract; Php 1,140,000.00 – total amount we paid Less: Php 62,857.00 – costs of two units of WCP delivered and installed Php 1,077,143.00 20. Q: Why do you, in plaintiff’s behalf, ask for attorney’s fees and litigation expenses?

A. Because forced to litigate to enforce its rights plaintiff incurred, and shall further incur, litigation-related expenses in the total estimated sum of Php500,000.00 which defendant must pay.

21. Q: And why does you company ask for exemplary damages?

A: To dissuade others from following defendant’s bad example, for the public good.

22. Q: Do you or do you not have original or certified true copies of the documents you mentioned and testified on earlier?

NO FURTHER QUESTIONS. (Sgd.) CRISTENE CHERRY CABUCOS Affiant Driver’s License No. N02-13-013586 Issued by the LTO in Quezon City and expires on May 14, 2024 SWORN ATTESTATION OF EXAMINING LAWYER I hereby attest that I am the lawyer who conducted the examination of the above witness; that I faithfully recorded the above questions and answers; and that neither myself nor any other person coached said witness regarding her answers.

(Sgd.) JOSELITO A. OLIVEROS Counsel for the Plaintiff 163-A Kamias Road, 1101 Quezon City Telephone No. 84263676 Cellphone Nos. 092027777877 & 092790922223 Email adds: oliveroslaw@gmail.com (for VCH Invites) and jomargoliver@yahoo.com IBP OR. No. 171570-Quezon City-01/03/22 (paid for 2023 online but receipt has not been issued) PTR OR. No. 4180405D-Quezon City-01/24/23 MCLE Compliance No. VII-0019022-05/25/22 Attorney’s Roll No. 34485 Driver’s License No. N03-96-198228 Issued by the Robinsons’s LTO Mandaluyong City With expiry date on 8/9/2024 SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN to before me MAR 28, 2023 day March 2023 at Quezon City, Philippines, affiants both exhibiting to me their respective identification documents indicated above.

Doc. No. 83; Page No. 17 Book No. IX-B Series of 2023.

ANNEX “A”

ANNEX “B”

A: The Secretary’s Certificate attached hereto as Annex “A”, sir.

5. Q: What are the personal circumstances of the plaintiff, if you know?

Fourth Cause of Action

16. Q. Why, then if you know, did your company make full payment of the agreed consideration vis-à-vis the WCP?

4. Q: What proof do you have, if any, that you are plaintiffs duly authorized representative in this case, sir?

First Cause of Action

Third Cause of Action

A: She Only made the delivery and installation for two (2) units with a cost of Php 62,857.00 sir.

A. I have them, sir, and I warrant that the copies I have attached to this Judicial Affidavit of mine are faithful copies or reproductions of those originals and/or certified true copies.

-versus-

7. Thereafter, plaintiff did not hear from the defendant for almost eight months. Defendant showed up at the construction site only on 2 February 2023 when she promised to finally do and finish the construction task. Defendant also had a similar conversation with plaintiff’s Ms. Cabucos on 13 February 2023 but after that and up to now defendant has not done what she was bound to do under the contract and has not communicated anymore with the plaintiff, despite followup messages, forcing the latter to have another contractor accomplish the abandoned projects since plaintiff would incur economic losses if they are further delayed.

10. Under the contracts (Annexes “D” and “E”, supra) defendant is liable for an amount equivalent to one-tenth of one percent of the project cost for every day of delay (No. 1a. iii). The delay started 01 February 2023 and lasted up to 6 March 2023 (since plaintiff already hired a new contractor to finish the projects on 7 March 2023) and this would translate to defendant’s total stipulated liability for the delay in the amount of Php33,040.00

15. Q: What happened with defendant’s contractual obligation as regards the WCP?

YMAZ BUILDERS CORPORATION. Plaintiff,

A: Yes, sir.

9. Defendant should then be ordered to return to the plaintiff the total amount of Php 1,077,143.00 with legal interests from the time of the filing of this Complaint under full payment thereof.

c. Php550,000.00 – paid to the defendant on 22 June 2022 (evidenced by Metrobank Check No. 4121667883 paid to the defendant and encashed by her copy of which is herein attached as Annex “H”).

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

6. Defendant had requested full payment of the contract price under the pretext that the price of the materials is about to increase so she needed to make all the needed purchase. That was why plaintiff made full payment. All defendant did, however, was make delivery and installation for two (2) units valued at Php62,857.00.

Second Cause of Action

b. Php220,000.00 – paid to the defendant on 25 May 2022 (evidenced by Metrobank Check No. 4121663899. Copy of which is attached herein as Annex “G” thereof); and

ANNEX “C”

A: Yes, sir.

7. Q: Why do you know her?

A: Plaintiff had two construction contracts with her and I was the one who personally dealt with the defendant in behalf of the plaintiff in the negotiation, execution and later in following up with the defendant when she failed to do her contractual obligations, sir.

8. Q: What you know about the defendant, if you know anything about her?

A: She is of legal age, a Filipino, civil status unknown, and with known address at No. 22 Sampaguita St., East Bagong Barrio, Caloocan City. She does business under the name and style * JATP Glass and Aluminum,” a business name registered in her name.

ANNEX “D”

9. Q: How did it come about that plaintiff entered into construction contracts with the defendant, if you know?

Fifth Cause of Action 12. To dissuade others from following defendant’s bad example, for the public good, plaintiff should also be awarded exemplary damages in the sum of Php500,000.00.

13. Ms. Cabucos’s attached Judicial Affidavit basically reiterates the allegation in this Complaint. Plaintiffs documentary evidence are attached thereto. Plaintiff has no object evidence. It consents to being served electronically through any of its counsel’s email addresses indicated below.

ANNEX “E”

10. Q: What happened next, if any?

A: I, in behalf of the plaintiff corporation, haggled with the defendant for discounts, sir.

Reliefs WHEREFORE, it is respectfully prayed that the subject contracts (Annexes “D” and “E,” supra) be declared rescinded and that defendant be ordered to pay the plaintiff: Php1,077,143.00 - actual/compensatory damages with legal interests starting from the time of filing of this Complaint until full payment thereof; Php 33,040.00 -

stipulated liability for the delay;

Php 500,000.00 -

attorney’s expenses;

Php 500,000.00 -

exemplary damages; and the costs of suit.

fees

A: Our company needed aluminum and wood composite panels for its project at No. 888 Gonzalo Puyat St., Quiapo, Manila, consisting of the proposed 35 units of 4-storey residences.

Defendant represented that she can deliver and install the same so she sent us her quotation for the needed wood composite panels “(WCP”) and the aluminum composite panels (“ACP”) ON 26 November 2021 and on 25 October 2022, respectively (copies attached as Annexes ‘B” and “C”, respectively).

and

11. Q: Then what happened?

A: Defendant agreed to give us discounts on both WCP and ACP and so the parties formalized their agreement by signing two “Construction Contract(s),” one for the WCP (copy attached herein as Annex “D”) and the other for the ACP (Annex “E,” herein).

12. Q: Whose signatures are those appearing in these two contracts?

litigation-related

Other reliefs, just and equitable, are likewise prayed for.

Quezon City, for Makati City, 22 March 2023 .

A: Those signatures appearing above my name in the last pages of these documents are mine as well as the similar signatures appearing on the left hand margin of their other pages. Those appearing above the defendant’s name on the last pages, and the similar signature on the left hand margin of the other pages are the signatures of the defendant, sir.

13. Q: Why do you know they are defendant’s signatures?

(Sgd.) JOSELITO A. OLIVEROS Counsel for Plaintiff 163-A Kamias Road, 1101 Quezon City Telephone No. 84263676 Cellphone Nos. 09202777877 & 09279092223 Email adds:oliveroslaw@gmai1.com (for VCH Invites) and jomargoliver@yahoo.com IBP OR. No. 171570-Quezon City-01/03/22 (paid for 2023 online but receipt has not been issued) PTR OR. No. 4180405D-Quezon City-01/24/23 MCLE Compliance No. VII-0019022-05/25/22 Attorney’s Roll No. 34485

ANNEX “F”

ANNEX “G”

A: She signed all of them in my presence, sir.

14. Q: What happened with these contracts if you know?

A: In the contract for the ACP (Annex “E,” supra) payment by the plaintiff, in the amount of Php40,000.00 was made but no delivery / installation by the defendant were made. As regards the contract for the WCP (Annex “D,”, supra) the plaintiff made full payment of the contract of Php1,100,000.00 as follows: a. Php330,000.00 – initial downpayment made last 13 December 2021 as evidenced by Metro bank Check No. 4121660071 issued to the defendant and encashed by her (copy herein attached as Annex “F”);

(MStandard - Dec. 19 & 26, 2023)

SPORTS

B2

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2023

‘Hamilton needs right car to bounce back’

P

ARIS—Former Formula One world champion Jenson Button says his old teammate Lewis Hamilton needs “the right car” to return to the front of the grid next season with Red Bull favourites again to clean up in 2024.

For the second year Button, who has running, Mercedes just announced a redriver Hamilton turn to full-time racfailed to win a grand ing in 2024 with the prix as Max VerstapWorld Endurance pen won 19 of the 22 Championship, knows races with Red Bull a thing or two about teammate Sergio domination having Perez taking two of won six of the first sevthe other three. en races in 2009, a start “Red Bull are gothat launched him to the ing to be at the front Lewis Hamilton title with Brawn. again next year,” Button told AFP. And he has an admiration “They had a strong car this for the single-mindedness year and they’ve been able to with which Verstappen set work on next year’s car. about his business.

“The thing is, if you just look “I think Max has done such an at the results of the race, you go amazing job,” said Button.

‘Oh Max Verstappen won again’ “He’s not put a foot wrong. He’s but when you actually watch obviously driving a good car, you the races, there have been some don’t win without a good car, but amazing races this year. you’ve just got to compare him to “Max hasn’t had it all his own where his teammate was most races. way. He’s come out on top in the It’s a big difference. end but there have been some “Going into 2024, Red Bull are great fights this season. still the favourites but I think the “I have enjoyed the year. other teams will be a bit closer.

Would I like more people win“It’s not going to be easy to ning? Yes of course. But it’s just beat Max in a Red Bull if his not happened.” head is in the right place.” AFP

The roles we play MUCH has been said about superstars not being good enough superstars, based on failing to win a championship.

The impression is logical and fair – what else do we expect superstars to become, but champions?

What flies under the radar, I guess, is how they become a champion. Many superstars fail to recognize the one important perk of their elite status: the chance to win the Larry O’Brien trophy even when they are past their prime.

But only if the superstar is willing to excel again, but in a different capacity: as a role player.

This explains, I think, why many super teams loaded with superstars past their prime fail to win together. I always think about Karl Malone and the loaded Los Angeles Lakers (200304), and how I fear it will be the same way for the Chicago Bulls in this DeMar DeRozan-Zach Lavine era.

For basketball fans, and the overly optimistic, it is easy to look at a team loaded with superstars and predict an automatic trophy by the season’s end.

But time and time again, many superstar teams defied the expectations of fans and front office, to become another entry to the many and growing lists of NBA super teams that didn’t win a championship.

Why? Because a champion team needs superstars to play as superstars, and its role players to play as super role players.

Michael Jordan played as a superstar in Chicago, and his teammates were top-notch role players, something another superstar Steph Curry – was blessed to have in his numerous Finals trips.

Having ascended the mountain, it is now easy for superstars to ride into the sunset.

But for those still chasing it with slower legs, it would mean joining a contender and accepting what they think is a demotion, being relegated as a role player.

Playing begrudgingly is just one problem. It’s also a burden to the team if an ex-superstar fails to transition, or if he was terrible at it, or if he sees it as an unwelcoming prospect. The role player cadre is an elite group in itself: reserved for the young and agile, for those who can still run, jump, and hustle with the best out there.

Most important of all is this -- the role player is a mindset. It becomes an instinct to which you answer to.

I’d like to believe that it can be done - transition from the superstar of your heydays to an effective role player once your skill and the opportunities given to you to lead a team as the alpha dog have both diminished.

Doable. But difficult.

Not only do you need to unlearn

Free Throw Shooter Nathaniel Dela Cruz

your old habits and learn a new approach to playing, but more importantly, you have to swallow your pride and spit subservience to a system (and to younger superstars) both of which are now bigger than you.

You have to take pride in becoming the errand boy and embrace the yeoman’s yoke. And it is difficult for someone who has already started to feel the steady and daily visitation of stiffness and aches.

For old superstars are old. Their ways and tendencies are set. They might try to play as a role player, but they will always gravitate towards doing what they’ve been doing for years, thinking they are still as effective, and avoiding the truth that it is not like that now.

Karl Malone was a great superstar in his prime. But he was far from great – either as a superstar or as a role player – when he wore the purple and gold in LA. LaMarcus Aldridge was a great superstar. Tall with a smooth midrange.

He would’ve been a great role player in San Antonio if he focused on anchoring the interior defense, but that version of him never materialized.

And why, all of a sudden, are the Clippers doing well despite predictions of implosion because they are loaded with ball-heavy superstars that will render futile all efforts to play team ball?

Two things: first, Russell Westbrook has embraced his reality. He is a role player now. And it seems like he is taking on this challenge with the same MVP fervor.

The other reason is James Harden.

What would happen next to the Clippers when Harden joined the team was an unpredictable coin toss.

In his I-want-out mode, Harden is not just useless, but toxic. But when he is all in, he is good and he can make the team better. And he does that not by scoring. His ability as a point guard orchestrating the offense is often eclipsed by his scoring. We’ve associated Harden with iso offense and and-one field goals that we overlooked his passing game.

Harden and Westbrook and those who are now on this path have discovered there is life after superstardom, and that’s becoming a superstar role player. It could be just as rewarding if it gives you one, two, or three more years to chase – and win – that one elusive championship.

And by the grace of the basketball gods, we’ll have more kids aspiring to be role players and fewer superstar wannabes, who are already conceited very early in their basketball life.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

B3

SHOWBIZ Ronaldo Valdez

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2023

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

tackles love in twilight years in last film

By Nickie Wang

T

HE Philippine entertainment industry grapples with the tragic death of veteran actor Ronaldo Valdez, discovered lifeless in his home on Sunday.

While the initial cause of death was not officially shared with the public, authorities confirmed finding a .45 caliber pistol with an empty magazine near Valdez’s body. Further investigation revealed he sustained a gunshot wound to the head.

“It is with great sorrow that I confirm my father’s passing. The family would like to request that you respect our privacy in our grieving moment. Your prayers and condolences are much appreciated,” Valdez’s son, actor and singer Janno Gibbs shared in an Instagram post on Monday morning.

Valdez had worked in a film scheduled to hit cinemas in January 2024. The film was Janno’s first directorial job.

Adding to the mystery of his demise, Valdez had been noticeably absent from recent promotional events for his latest film, Ikaw at Ako, where he played an elderly coping with the challenges of life’s twilight years. The film, exploring diverse facets of love across generations,

Seasoned actor Ronaldo Valdez was recognized

by The Eddys as a Movie Icon in 2021

premiered earlier this month.

In Ikaw at Ako, Valdez starred opposite Boots AnsonRodrigo.. Produced by Viva Films and directed by Rechie Del Carmen,, unfolds in three narrative arcs.

Besides Valdez’s storyline, it explores the tumultuous relationship of Marga (Rhian Ramos)) and Anton (Paolo Contis)) on the brink of divorce, as well as the innocence of “puppy love” between Tintin (Fatima Mislang) and Miggy (James James Ezekiel Ignacio) during a summer camp.

The film delves deep into the complexities of love, showcasing its various forms and the challenges that accompany each stage.

Valdez is survived by his wife, Maria Fe Gibbs, s, and children, actor-comedian Janno, and Melissa Gibbs.

Discovered by Dolphy in the mid-1960s, he rose to fame in the ’70s playing significant father roles, a trend that continued in the 1990s and 2000s.

Notable appearances include TV dramas like Mula sa Puso (1997–1999) and Sa Dulo ng Walang Hanggan (2001–2003), as well as the romantic comedy Labs Kita... Okey Ka Lang? (1998). Recent years saw him in shows like Los Bastardos (2018-2019) and 2 Good 2 Be True (2022-2023), and films including The Mistress (2012), All You Need is Pag-ibig (2015), and Seven Sundays (2017).

Derek Ramsay returns to the big screen via MMFF thriller ‘Kampon’ Maja Salvador remembered that he has already won two Best opens up about married with Rambo Actor trophies from the life MMFF: one for English Nuñez, highlighting importance Only Please in 2014 the of avoiding petty and another for All of Joseph Peter Gonzales You in 2017. Does he quarrels.

“It’s really different feel he can make it AFTER a few years in hiatus, actor when you’re already three with Kampon?

Derek Ramsay makes a successful “As to chances of winning another married,” she said. return as he takes on the lead role in Best Actor plum, my role is complex.

As a seasoned actressthe horror movie ‘Kampon,’ Quantum My character has many issues. But host, Salvador discusses her efforts Films’ official entry to the 2023 Metro honestly, more than winning Best Actor, to balance personal and professional Manila Film Festival (MMFF).

I want our film to grab the Best Picture life, expressing her preference for film In an interview, Ramsay shares award,” Ramsay went on. projects over soap operas. his initial doubts about returning to Looking ahead to 2024, Salvador When asked about his leading lady, acting after such a prolonged break Beauty Gonzalez, Ramsay praises her teases a new variety show where she but expresses excitement about the as a brilliant actress, emphasizing his will showcase her dance routines and project. resume her hosting duties. Celebrating admiration for her talent.

“I’m excited with the project,” he “I only have good words for her. Not her 20th year in show business, said. “First, it’s an MMFF entry. But just because she’s the best friend of my Salvador reflects on her unexpected at first, I doubted if I could still act wife in real life. She’s a brilliant actress journey into hosting, describing it as considering my long absence. I just as well,” he noted. a happy and fulfilling aspect of her can’t say no to my producer Ninang Switching gears, Ramsay shares career.

Joji (Alonso). After seeing the entire personal insights, revealing his “Well, I will have a new variety show. movie though, I felt that it was the love for children and expressing his I will be hosting once again. Actually, right decision to do it. Big thanks to commitment to being the best father I’m enjoying it at present. I’m in my our director King Palisoc for guiding he can be. As he anticipates the next 20th year in show business. I didn’t me and helping me deliver a competent chapter in his life, Ramsay looks envision myself as a host. But now, I’m performance.” forward to the release of Kampon and one already. And I can say it’s a happy Addressing the possibility of a broader the possibility of expanding his family. work for me,” Maja said. return to the acting field, Ramsay stated, *** “For film, maybe. But TV? No, I’m not open to doing any soaps at this point.

My focus now is to have a baby with my wife Ellen (Adarna). So, after Kampon, I’ll rest again.”

Ramsay reflects on his previous acting projects, mentioning his participation in the Netflix original movie Extraction 2, which starred Hollywood actor Chris Hemsworth.

With two Best Actor trophies from the MMFF under his belt, Ramsay acknowledges the complexity of his role in ‘Kampon’ and expresses a desire for the film to clinch the Best Picture award.

“That’s my last movie before I decided to do Kampon,” he said.

It can be The cast of MMFF-entry ‘Kampon’

Shticks

New generation actress Belle Mariano

Fantasy musical ‘Wonka’ delights audiences in opening week WARNER Bros.’ fantasy musical Wonka, boosted by the star power of Timothee Chalamet, enjoyed a sweet opening in North American theaters this weekend after an equally strong debut overseas, industry watchers reported Sunday.

The film took in an estimated $39 million in the United States and Canada for the Friday-through-Sunday period, according to Exhibitor Relations. That came on top of $112 million in tickets sold overseas, where the film opened a week earlier.

The film is a prequel, with Chalamet as a younger version of Roald Dahl’s famous chocolatier Willy Wonka, a character first played by Gene Wilder and then Johnny Depp.

Another prequel, Lionsgate’s Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, placed second for the weekend at $5.8 million, showing impressive staying power in its fifth week out.

In third place was animated fantasy The Boy and the Heron, from Studio Ghibli, at $5.2 million.

The Japanese film follows 11-year-old Mahito who, during World War II, meets and communes with a talking gray heron after his

mother dies in a fire.

The coming-of-age story from celebrated Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki topped the North American box office last weekend, becoming the first original anime production to do so.

In fourth was another Japanese production, sci-fi action film Godzilla Minus One, directed by Takashi Yamazaki and produced by Toho International, at $4.9 million.

And in fifth was Universal and D r e a m Wo r k s ’ Trolls Band Together at $4 million in its fifth week out. AFP

Timothee Chalamet is Willy Wonka

Ben&Ben collabs with Belle Mariano for ‘Can’t Buy Me Love’ OST BEN&BEN introduces a duet version of its single “Autumn” with actress Belle Mariano as part of the official soundtrack of ABS-CBN’s hit primetime series Can’t Buy Me Love.

“Autumn” tackles the distance between two people who are grappling to make

their relationship work. It was composed by Ben&Ben’s Paolo Benjamin and Miguel Benjamin who also produced the song collaboration alongside ABS-CBN Music creative director Jonathan Manalo and Jean Paul Verona.

Previously, the band released its original version last November.

Recently, Belle released her second album Somber, which included several hit singles such as “Bugambilya” and “Somber and Solemn.” The album claimed the top spot of iTunes Philippines album chart upon its release while its tracks charted in the top 30 of singles chart.

Aside from her music, she also became prominent as a talented actress following her successful series He’s Into Her and romcom flicks Love Is Color Blind and An Inconvenient Love. Currently, she stars in Can’t Buy Me Love along with on-screen partner Donny Pangilinan.

B4

LIFE

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2023

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

Dr. Stephene decides to start his eyewear brand with a conscious effort to preserve the environment

Wodd founder Dr. Stephene Roy Condino

Stylish shades

with a green mission apart from Wodd, he heads MASA Inc. marketing agency, Condino and Associates Consulting Group. He teaches Business, Marketing, and ODD eyewear Innovation at De La Salle and Ateneo de Manila. not only offers His passion for sustainability was nurtured while pursuing his graduate school studies in the protection from UK. “I was exposed to endeavors that catalyzed harmful UV rays, my passion for sustainability initiatives. Our susceptibility to typhoons, which personally but it also helps reduce carbon affected my family in the Visayas in 2018, further footprint. The company plants a solidified my resolve.” tree for every sunglass purchased After his MBA from Ateneo de Manila, Doc Bigs completed his Doctorate from the University to preserve the environment and of Liverpool. He also finished several programs at support local farmers. the London Business School and a post-doctorate fellow in business at the University of Oxford.

Wodd was founded by business consultant, Wodd was born out of a conscious effort to entrepreneur, and educator Dr. Stephene Roy preserve the environment. Doc Bigs wanted Condino. Known to his colleagues as Doc Bigs, a sustainability initiative to support the “no

By Tet Defensor

W

Switch to wood and bamboo lifestyle accessories

plastic” campaign and a lifestyle accessory made of wood and bamboo seemed very promising.

“I was drawn to the distinct and stylish nature of sunglasses. I also noticed a gap in the market.

Sunglasses were predominantly plastic and this opened opportunities,” Doc Bigs shares.

Wodd started in Cebu in 2019, however, the strategic expansion plan was disrupted by the pandemic. Online sales was the only marketplace during the pandemic yet Doc Bigs insisted on visiting top tourist destinations to introduce Wodd to hotel managers, surf shop proprietors, and café owners.

“The approach laid the groundwork for future partnerships. It ensured product availability, once circumstances improved,” he states.

And just as he planned, Wodd sunglasses were at the forefront, when post-pandemic revenge travel took place. The brand now boasts a

network of 240 partners across the country. It is also available in leading department stores.

The commitment to plant a tree for every purchase continues to this day in collaboration with the Haribon Foundation. To date, the company has planted 1,570 trees across the country. “We intend to continue treeplanting endeavor in tandem with our business operations.”

The experience of starting a business during the pandemic strengthened the drive, to push against the odds. “Establishing a business necessitates a narrative that resonates, whether the objective is environmental conservation or job creation it becomes the foundation that guides the company’s mission.”

Apart from running several ventures, Doc Bigs remains dedicated to shaping the minds of future business leaders.

Boutique airline goes the extra mile this Christmas CHRISTMAS is on the horizon, and Filipinos are starting to make their way to their home provinces for some holiday cheer or looking forward to taking their muchneeded R&R in the country’s beautiful destinations.

Sunlight Air has prepared several surprises to make Christmas travels more enjoyable. This December, experience Sunlight Air’s Joy Takes Flight campaign, bound to make flying over the holidays a very merry one. From check-in to landing, passengers are sure to feel the Christmas spirit all around.

To kick things off, Sunlight Air is offering discounts on flights starting at only P112 to Camiguin, Siargao, Busuanga, and more from Dec. 22 to 24. Check out great deals for holiday travels on sunlightair.ph.

Before boarding their flight, passengers can expect to be greeted by bright lights and decorations at the Sunlight Air check-in desk at NAIA Terminal 4. Each customer will surely be able to feel the holiday spirit while getting their travel documents and baggage checked.

Those flying on Dec. 22 and 23 can also have photos taken at the Sunlight Air photobooth after check-in, where they can take some snapshots with family and friends after check-in. Note that the photo booth is open to all airline passengers—not just Sunlight Air customers—who want to capture memories before taking off.

For those who are flying out on Christmas Eve, get ready to be serenaded by a choral group at the Sunlight Air boarding gate. Their repertoire of Christmas songs will put everyone in a festive mood and relieve any prior stress while waiting for their flights.

Finally, what’s Christmas without good food?

As the cherry on top, Sunlight Air is bringing that sweet taste of home to the air with their complimentary Christmas-themed snacks to be served to all passengers on board. Get a taste of Christmas with special sweets and desserts, made specifically as a gift for Sunlight Air’s passengers.

Whether it be on the ground or in the sky, Sunlight Air believes that the merrier the travel experience, the better, this holiday season. Get treated to a jolly airline experience and feel the Christmas spirit from start to finish.

Enjoy discounts on flights with the ‘Joy Takes Flight’ campaign

Redefine your way of experiencing cool comfort at home with the appliance shop’s line of air conditioners

Stay cool in the season of love and sharing BEKO, a European appliance brand, offers shoppers a lifestyle upgrade with its line of air conditioners designed to redefine the way they experience cool comfort at home.

This holiday season, shoppers can also stay cool and make the most out of the savings of up to 60 percent offered by the Beko Sends Love promo until Dec. 31.

Your wallet will thank you as you’ll get lots of savings in your wallet and your energy consumption bills since Beko air conditioners have an energysaving feature that lets you enjoy maximum coolness with minimal costs.

Get a restful sleep, say goodbye to uncomfortable nights, and experience a cool atmosphere at your home as this has a low energy consumption rate. Save P15,999 on the BSEOG 180/181 split-type air conditioner 2.0HP SplitType AC HomeWhiz ProSmart Inverter Compressor, which has a cash price of P38,991.

Escape the heat or feel warm with the BSEOG 120/121, 1.5 HP SplitType AC HomeWhiz Prosmart Inverter Compressor, has a cash price of Php29,891

Experience comfort without spending too much with energy-efficient airconditioners

for savings of Php16,099 while the BSEOG 090/091, a HomeWhiz 1.0 HP SplitType AC ProSmart Inverter Compressor, has a cash price of P25,791 for savings of P11,199.

Beko’s appliances are also efficient for all kinds of spaces, especially Beko’s window-type inverter air conditioners! The BPV0W 120, a 1.5HP Window Type AC Full DC Motors ProSmart Inverter Compressor, has a cash price of Php24,391) with savings of P6,599, and the BPV0W 090, a 1.0HP Window Type AC Full DC Motors ProSmart Inverter Compressor, has a cash price of P21,791 with savings of P5,199.

Beko appliances are available at Abenson, AC Marketing, All Home, Anson’s Asian Home, Automatic Centre, BHF, Echo Appliance, Fair N Square, Fiesta Appliance, Fonts Home, GB Prime, Great World, J Marketing, JVValeroso Marketing, K-Alwin’z, Lazada, Lucky 4 City Appliance, Magic Appliance, Manhattan, and Mike’s Department Store.

The brand is also available at NB Marketing, Ocampo’s, Our Builders Warehouse, Plusign, POS Marketing, Pricewise, RJ Homes, Robinson’s,Tiongsan, Trinity Appliance, Triple NM, United Motoliance, VPR Marketing, Western Appliances, Savers Appliances, SaveYour Home, Shopee, Solidmark, SM Appliance Center, SVCAppliance, and 1st Megasaver.

For more information about Beko in the Philippines, go to http://beko.ph or visit https://www.facebook.com/ bekoph and https://www.instagram.com/bekoph/.