Manila Standard - 2023 December 29 - Friday

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SMNI ASKS COURT TO STOP NTC’S 30-DAY SUSPENSION NEWS / A2

POULTRY MANAGERS HIT ORDER KEEPING IMPORT TARIFFS LOW VOL. XXXVII • NO. 318 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2023 •

NEWS / A2

1-mo. window opens for PUVs

LTFRB to allow jeeps that fail to join co-ops to ply some routes ‘til Jan. 31

By Rio N. Araja, Darwin G. Amojelar, Rey E. Requejo, and Macon Ramos-Araneta

EEPNEYS that fail to join a cooperative or corporation after the Dec. 31 deadline under the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) will still be allowed to operate until Jan. 31, 2024 to avoid a shortage of public transportation.

J

This was the gist of a memo released by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), even as its mother agency, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) ruled out an extension of the Dec. 31 deadline to consolidate.

“In order not to hamper the operation of public transportation routes without consolidated TSEs (transport service entities), the individual operators in said routes shall be allowed to

operate until 31 January 2024,” the LTFRB memo said.

“During this period, show cause orders shall be issued by the (LTFRB) board and its regional franchising regulatory offices to the unconsolidated individual operators in compliance with the provisions of the Public Service Act,” it added.

Under LTFRB Memorandum Circular 2023-052, the agency said the leeway granted to drivers and operators

would ensure that commuters would not suffer the brunt of a possible shortage of public transportation, particularly traditional jeepneys, The consolidation into a corporation or cooperative is the first phase of the PUVMP, while the second phase is route rationalization, which will begin on Jan. 1, 2024.

The LTFRB gave the drivers and operators until Dec. 31 to consolidate, Next page

SWS survey also shows Filipinos’ optimism for ‘24

MMFF WINNERS.

Vilma Santos joins (clockwise from upper left) JC Santos, Miles Ocampo and the cast of the movie ‘Firefly’ as the big winners Wednesday night in the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival's Gabi ng Parangal at the New Frontier Theater in Quezon City (see related story on page C2).

Danny Pata

By Vito Barcelo SOME 96 percent of Filipinos expressed optimism that they will have a better life in 2024, the latest survey by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) said.

The SWS poll, fielded from Dec. 8 to 11, revealed that 96 percent of adult Filipinos have “hope” rather than “fear” as they face the new year.

“This is a point above the 95 percent in 2022 and the highest since the pre-pandemic 96 percent in 2019,” the SWS said.

The survey observed that only 3 percent will enter the New Year with fear, down by 2 points from 5 percent in 2022.

Hope for the New Year was 87 percent when first surveyed by SWS at the end of 2000. It was in the 80s at the end of 2000, 2001, 2004, 2005, and 2009.

It was in the 90s at the end of 2002 and 2003, from 2006 to 2008, and from 2010 to 2023.

Compared to the end of 2022,

‘Firefly,’ Vilma take trophies at MMFF ‘Gabi’

By Angelica Villanueva THE heartwarming coming-of-age drama “Firefly” bagged the Best Picture award to lead the winners during the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival's Gabi ng Parangal on Wednesday night.

“GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs are back and through Firefly, they promise to continue making meaningful, quality films. We dedicate the film to all those who believe in the power of dreams, love, and art,” said Firefly director Zig Dulay in receiving the trophy.

Dulay also expressed optimism that Firefly would be shown in more cinemas after the film bagged the prestigious award (see related story on Showbiz, page C3 – Editors).

Veteran actress Vilma Santos and theater actor Cedrick Juan were Next page

17 PH hostages in Yemen poised for release—DFA

Next page

Blinken assures PH of US sea commitment in phone call with Manalo

By Rey E. Requejo and Vince Lopez FOREIGN Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo had a phone conversation with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on “issues of mutual concern”, including the ongoing tension in the South China Sea, the US State Department said Thursday.

Manalo's call with Blinken came after he said he had a “frank and candid” call with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, on the territorial dispute between Manila and Beijing.

During their call, Blinken assured Manalo of the United States’ ironclad commitment to fulfill its obligations to the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty.

“Secretary Blinken and Secretary Manalo also exchanged ideas on Next page

Designate fireworks zones ahead of New Year, MMDA asks mayors

By Rey E. Requejo THE Department of Foreign Affairs has already dispatched a team to Yemen to assist in the ongoing negotiations for the release of 17 Filipino seafarers held hostage by Houthi militants.

“Our contacts have assured us that for sure that they will be released, but it’s just a matter of how long,” DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Workers' Affairs Eduardo de Vega said.

“We can promise that they’re okay because they’ve been able to contact their families,” he added.

The Filipino seafarers were on board the Bahamas-flagged carrier Galaxy Leader when it was captured Next page

FILIPINO-CHINESE BEAUTY. Miss Universe Philippines Michelle Dee (center) receives a plaque of recognition from the officials of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. led by President Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro (third from right) and Vice-President Jeffrey Ng (second from left) on Thursday. The beauty queen later points to a portrait of her late grandfather, Dee K. Chiong, who served as FFCCCII Vice President from 1968 to 1970.

By Joel E. Zurbano, Macon Ramos-Araneta, and Vince Lopez

PETS VS. ‘PAPUTOXIC’. Members of the Philippine Animal Welfare Society

and the EcoWaste Coalition pose after their 'Iwas Paputoxic’ parade in support of animal rights against the ill effects of fireworks in Quezon City on Thursday. Manny Palmero

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority asked mayors in the National Capital Region to designate fireworks display zones in their respective areas for the New Year revelry, as the Department of Health logged 88 fireworks-related injuries, including a four-year old boy who accidentally ingested a “watusi” (stick

firecracker) at home.

MMDA acting chairman Romando Artes said the designation of fireworks display zones in every Metro Manila LGU will provide a safer environment during the holiday celebration.

“Setting up a common fireworks display zone can prevent or lessen fireworks-related injuries. Open spaces or common areas can be designated as fireworks display zones,” he said.

During a recent Metro Manila Council meeting, Artes and Metro Manila Next page

NEWS

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

SMNI asks court to nix 30-day ban “The suspension order is immediately tion of the show cause order and also the executory, that is why we are asking the suspension order,” said SMNI lawyer and Court of Appeals to issue a temporary former lawmaker Rolex Suplico. restraining order to stop the implementaSuplico said the NTC suspension or-

der violated several Constitutional provisions, particularly on the right to due process, separation of powers, and freedom of speech.

"We are given 15 days to file our response but the problem is that while we were given time to respond, there already is a suspension order. So, in this case, this is a grave violation of the Constitution.

They abused their authority," he said.

Aside from issuing the suspension order, the NTC also directed SMNI officers to explain why they should not be administratively sanctioned.

The regulator cited the House of Rep-

resentatives' declaration in Resolution No. 189 that SMNI violated at least three specific provisions of its legislative franchise.

This came on the heels of a 14-day suspension order slapped on two SMNI shows, including one hosted by former President Rodrigo Duterte.

The National Union of Journalists, however, said that while it was concerned with the NTC suspension order being “reminiscent of the previous [Duterte] administration’s attempts to weaponize the law and muzzle media,” the red-tagging that SMNI allows on its programs “does harm.”

70 percent or some 154,000 of them have already consolidated.

But in Metro Manila, some 73.5 percent or 31,058 traditional jeepneys have yet to be consolidated ahead of the deadline. On top of this, 66 percent of jeepneys are not yet consolidated in Calabarzon. In the Zamboanga Peninsula, the figure is 63 percent.

The LTFRB said rationalized and efficiently planned routes would be responsive to the demands of commuters.

The DOTr said that “all major routes or thoroughfares” in Metro Manila are now being operated by consolidated transport groups.

Secondary routes without consolidated entities, on the other hand, will be served by other modes of public transport, the DOTr said.

Meanwhile, jeepney drivers and operators led by Piston who contested the PUVMP before the Supreme Court suffered a setback when the magistrates did not issue a temporary restraining order they requested against the government program before the Dec. 31 deadline.

However, the Court required the DOTr and the LTFRB to comment on the petition within 10 days from the receipt of the order.

The PUVMP will be enforced starting

Jan. 1. Among other things, the program would cancel existing franchises of all public utility jeepneys (PUJs) and consolidate them under transport cooperatives and corporations.

The petitioners argued that the program and the orders and circulars detailing it were unconstitutional, as they violated the guaranteed freedom of association, right to due process, right to equal protection under the law, right against unreasonable seizures and the right to gainful employment and livelihood.

Striking jeepney drivers said the government preparations cannot prevent a looming transport crisis next week, when traditional jeepneys could be forced to stop operating as a result of unmet PUVMP requirements.

Piston president Mody Floranda said if a big proportion of jeepneys vanish from the transport system, this would have a huge effect, not only on drivers, but also on commuters and the economy as a whole.

The militant labor group Partido Manggagawa (PM) argued that more than 144,000 jeepney drivers would lose their livelihoods once the government implements the modernization program.

In a statement, the PM said that indi-

vidual operators of the old jeepneys can no longer operate after the Dec. 31 deadline this year, unless they join a corporation or a cooperative.

“At the stroke of midnight on Dec. 31, 144,000 will lose their livelihoods. This is conservatively estimated as one operator and one driver for the 74,000 jeepney units which have not been consolidated either into cooperatives or corporations,” the group said.

The labor group said the 144,000 would swell the ranks of the 2,090,000 unemployed Filipinos as of October 2023.

Also on Thursday, Senator Imee Marcos appealed to the DOTr to withdraw its deadline for the PUVMP. "It is clear that there is a need for all operators, drivers and commuters to return to an extensive meeting and consultation," Marcos said.

"Who doesn't want a new vehicle? But with the difficulties we are facing, who has money to pay (for a new vehicle)," she asked.

Marcos noted that the P280,000 subsidy for drivers and operators to buy a new vehicle was only a small portion of the P2.5 million needed to buy a modern PUV. She added that there is even no trade-in value for an old jeepney.

Pilipinas" which has three components – Healthy Handaan (healthy feast), Healthy Celebration, and Iwas Paputok (avoiding the use of firecrackers).

The DOH on Thursday said the 88 fireworks-related injuries recorded ahead of the New Year celebration included a four-year old boy from Calabarzon who accidentally ingested watusi.

In case of watusi ingestion, the DOH advised the public to give around six to eight egg whites for kids and eight to 12 egg whites for adults.

The victim should be brought immediately to an emergency room.

Of the 13 new cases logged yesterday, five involved prohibited firecrackers.

Most of the cases of fireworksrelated injuries were recorded in the

National Capital Region with 31, followed by Central Luzon with 11, and Ilocos with 10.

The cases mostly involved boga, five star, piccolo, and pla-pla which are prohibited firecrackers, as well as whistle bombs, luces, and kwitis.

The Philippine National Police, for its part, reminded the public to refrain from buying firecrackers online.

Firecrackers purchased online could ignite and cause accidents during delivery, said Col. Jay Guillermo, chief of the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group.

"No one is authorized by the government to sell fireworks online because what we are thinking about here is the safety of the buyers and also the people who will pass the fireworks wherever you take them," Guillermo

said in a television interview.

An animal welfare group and an environmental health group likewise urged Filipinos to welcome the New Year without firecrackers and fireworks to protect human lives as well as animals.

During the "Iwas Paputoxic" event held in Quezon City, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) and the EcoWaste Coalition put the spotlight on the adverse effects of lighting firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices on humans and their pets.

"It brings about a terrified response from many dogs and they could sustain serious and even fatal injuries just trying to get away from the deafening noise," said Sharon Yap of PAWS.

By Rey E. Requejo

S

ONSHINE Media Network International (SMNI) on Thursday asked the Court of Appeals to stop the implementation of the 30-day suspension order imposed by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) for possible franchise violations.

1-mo....

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saying they would not be allowed to ply their routes otherwise.

The latest memo, however, in effect extends the deadline because it lets unconsolidated franchise holders continue operating.

At least 154,000 PUV units or 70 percent of the total are expected to consolidate before the end of 2023. Drivers and operators from two major groups, Piston and Manibela, have gone on strike to protest the PUVMP. In preparation for the possible shakeout, the LTFRB is coordinating with local government units to rationalize routes and identify those that may be affected by the program.

It may also issue special permits to operate on routes without consolidated PUV units for three months after Jan. 31, 2024, but these will only be available to drivers and operators who were able to consolidate.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, meanwhile, said there would be no extension of the Dec. 31 deadline, noting that a majority of PUV operators or about

Designate...

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mayors discussed an MMDA resolution urging LGUs to set up firework display zones.

“It is a tradition to use firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices during the holiday season. There is undeniably a significant number of firecracker-related injuries, casualties, and accidental fires recorded every year in Metro Manila related to the indiscriminate and unregulated use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices,” the resolution stated.

Health authorities also urged the Metro Manila mayors to promote the Department of Health’s "Ligtas Christmas sa Healthy

Blinken...

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how to reinforce US-Philippines cooperation in the coming year, building on President Marcos’ official working visit to Washington, D.C., this past May,” the US State Department added.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has yet to provide details on Manalo’s call with Blinken.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), meanwhile, slammed Chinese claims of a hidden agenda on the part of Manila’s allies in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) dispute.

“While it is true that there is no such thing as free lunch, unlike China, our allies do not take away our lunch especially if it is rightfully ours,” said PCG spokesperson for the WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela in a post on his X page.

Tarriela's post was a reaction to an editorial article of the Chinese government-supported publication Global Times, which said the Philippines should remain vigilant against the “enthusiasm” displayed by the US and other countries.

“There is no such thing as a free lunch, and behind the US' ‘enthusiasm’ lies a hidden agenda,” the paper said.

The PCG official also said that the Philippines will keep its vigilance against the “bullies” and will continue to welcome countries that support its interests.

Tarriela also called out the Chinese for blaming the actions of the Philippines as well as the US for the rising

tensions in the South China Sea. China’s actions, he said, are the “main source” of the conflict in the contested region.

“Until now, the [People's Republic of China] has not come to terms with the fact that their fabricated narratives and baseless claims about the alleged aggressive actions of the Philippines are not that convincing,” Tarriela said.

“Instead, they weaken their own argument that the US is the primary instigator of the rising tensions in the South China Sea,” he added.

Recently, Chinese state media People's Daily also published a commentary accusing the Philippines of infringing on China's territory, spreading false information, and colluding with other countries to cause trouble.

On Thursday, China said it is committed to resolving its maritime dispute with the Philippines through dialogue and consultation, but warned that it will not turn a blind eye to repeated “provocations and harassment” by Manila.

The Philippine government earlier this month condemned China for its coast guard and maritime militia repeatedly firing water cannons at Manila’s resupply boats, causing "serious engine damage" to one, and "deliberately" ramming another.

In a press conference in Beijing, Wu Qian, a ministry spokesperson, called the accusations "purely false hype”, saying the Philippine side insisted on sending vessels to "intrude into" waters near a disputed shoal and "proactively rammed" a Chinese Coast Guard vessel.

17 PH...

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by Houthi militants in the Red Sea on Nov. 19.

The Houthi, an Islamist group based in Yemen, took the Israeli-owned ship in support of Hamas in its war against Israel in Gaza.

“The Houthis are adamant [right] now that [it is] not about money. They just want the Israeli operations against Gaza to end,” De Vega said.

SWS...

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hope for the coming New Year rose slightly from 93 percent to 97 percent in Metro Manila and from 93 percent to 96 percent in Mindanao. It stayed at 97 percent in Balance Luzon, while it fell slightly from 95 percent to 93 percent in the Visayas.

Meanwhile, hope for the New Year rose slightly in all educational levels.

Compared to the end of 2022, New Year hope rose slightly across educational levels: from 92 percent to 93 percent among non-elementary graduates, from 95 percent to 97 percent among elementary graduates, from 95 percent to 96 percent among junior high school graduates, and from 96 percent to 98 percent among college graduates.

The SWS interviewed 1,200 adult Filipinos, with sampling error margins of ±3 percentage points for national percentages, and ±6 percentage points each for Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

A similar poll by Pulse Asia released Dec. 22 said nine in 10 Filipinos face 2024 “with hope.”

The same survey found the majority of Filipinos or 41 percent of the respondents said their holiday celebrations this year will be just as prosperous as in 2022.

At least 30 percent of the respondents said they will be having a “more

President Marcos ordered the formation of the delegation to negotiate with the captors of the Filipino seafarers earlier this month as he canceled his trip to attend to the situation of the hostages.

“Some things need immediate attention. One of those is our fellow Filipinos who are being held hostage,” the President said.

The International Bargaining Forum had declared the southern area of the Red Sea and the Bab El-Mandeb Strait as “high risk” areas following the Houthi’s missile attacks on another container ship

prosperous” Christmas this year than last year’s, while 13 percent said their celebrations will be “poorer” now.

“Amid the various challenges Filipinos face on a daily basis, most of them continue to remain optimistic, with 92 percent saying they will face the new year with hope. This is the prevailing sentiment in every geographic area and socio-economic grouping,” Pulse Asia said.

Only 1 percent of the respondents said they will face 2024 without hope while 7 percent were ambivalent on the matter.

The survey, conducted from Dec. 3 to 7, 2023, had 1,200 respondents.

A third survey, by PUBLiCUS Asia Inc., said the administration’s approval rating surged by eight percentage points to 61 percent in the last quarter, driven by increased ratings in NorthCentral Luzon, South Luzon, and the Visayas.

President Marcos logged a performance rating of 59 percent during the last three months of the year, the Pahayag survey said.

The non-commissioned survey, conducted by PUBLiCUS Asia Inc., said the administration “witnessed a notable recovery” from its 53 percent performance rating in the third quarter.

The survey said among the issues affecting the performance of President Marcos’ administration was inflation, which was ranked as the most pressing concern at 44 percent.

bound for Saudi Arabia and an attempted drone attack on Israel.

The Department of Migrant Workers earlier reminded Filipino seafarers that they may reject jobs that would require passage through the high-risk areas.

"The idea is that we don't want our seafarers to be forced to take that route and instead they should be given other routes like that. I think what our seafarers will say is that they will agree because with higher pay but life is more important,” De Vega said.

Poll: Pro-admin sentiment drops to 46% in Q3 THERE has been a “noteworthy shift” in pro-administration sentiment among Filipinos, which has declined from 50 percent in the third quarter of 2022 to 46 percent in the same period in 2023, the Pahayag End of Year survey showed.

PUBLiCUS Asia Inc., which conducted the non-commissioned survey and released the results Thursday, also said anti-administration sentiment remained “stable” at 18%, while those adopting a neutral stance increased from 30% to 36% during the same period.

Economic concerns, including price inflation, joblessness, low wages, and a perceived lack of productivity, emerge as driving factors behind the changing political landscape, the survey said.

These issues, left unaddressed by the administration, have prompted a notable migration of pro-administration voters toward neutrality, PUBLiCUS Asia said.

In regional breakdowns, the National Capital Region (NCR) witnessed a significant drop in pro-administration sentiment from 49% to 33%, while Mindanao and North-Central Luzon (NCL) experienced declines of 51% and 49%, respectively. Notably, neutral sentiments increased across regions, indicating a shift toward non-partisanship.

Poultry managers hit order keeping import tariffs low A GROUP of poultry farm managers has criticized a Palace executive order that extended for another year the lower tariffs on imported pork, corn, and rice.

Elias Jose Inciong, president of the United Broiler Raisers Association, said Executive Order No. 50 issued by President Marcos defeats the purpose for which it was designed.

EO 50 again reduced the levy on these commodities and pegged the tariff to socalled Most Favored Nation tariff rates.

The concession was supposed to expire by yearend and a similar missive had been issued to that effect since 2021. This marks the third time that Malacañang extended the tariff cuts.

“Since this is the third time, it means it doesn’t work. The purpose is to bring down prices or make it affordable, to stabilize prices and to diversify sources. Clearly, it has not worked. You know, it cannot be that every year you just extend,” Inciong said in an interview with CNN Philippines.

But the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) on Thursday said the extension of the reduced Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff rates for key agricultural commodities such as pork, corn, and rice will ensure sufficient and affordable food supply for Filipinos in 2024.

With Darwin Amojelar

‘Firefly,’...

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ptoclaimed Best Actress and Best Actor, respectively, for the acting prowess they displayed in the films “When I Met You in Tokyo” and “GomBurZa.” E.A.T. host and actress Miles Ocampo bagged the Best Supporting Actress award for her character in “Family of Two” while “Mallari” star JC Santos was named Best Supporting Actor.

Santos, the so-called “Star for All Seasons” who has successfully transitioned to politics, said: "I did not expect this. Our advocacy when we did ‘When I Met You In Tokyo’ was really not about winning Best Actress or Best Actor. We just wanted to tell a simple love story at our age.”

“Our advocacy is for the Metro Manila Film Festival to be successful and at the same time, for people to return to the cinemas," said the former Batangas governor and lawmaker.

"With the 10 movies currently showing in the Metro Manila Film Festival, people are returning to the cinemas. I hope this continues because this is what our industry needs, for people to appreciate being with their families, for family bonding. I think it is happening now, and I hope it continues,” she added.

Juan, who played the role of Filipino Catholic priest Jose Burgos, thanked the people behind the historical film.

"I dedicate this honor to all Filipinos who have not received justice because 152 years ago that was what was happening to us and that is the story of the three martyred priests. I hope we learn from our history, not to change it, but to learn from it,” he said.

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NEWS

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2023 MST.DAYDESK@GMAIL.COM

DOH says it has made significant strides toward universal healthcare

By Vince Lopez

BARASOAIN CONCERT. Senator Joel Villanueva speaks during the Gabi ng Musika sa Barasoain.’ The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) serenaded Bulakenyos at the historic Barasoain Church in Malolos, Bulacan. Villanueva said it has always been his dream to bring a world-class orchestra to his hometown.

THE Department of Health (DOH) has reported significant strides in ensuring more accessible healthcare services toward the full implementation of the government’s Universal Health Care (UHC) Act of 2019.

In his first 100 days since his appointment in June, DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said he has focused on ensuring healthcare services are accessible to all Filipinos, regardless of socio-economic status.

The DOH said it has employed the principle of “No One Gets Left Behind” aligned with the department’s 8-Point Action Agenda, which encompasses safe, and quality service delivery, preparedness against pandemics and crises, as well as ensuring the welfare and rights of healthcare workers— key aspects that underscore the muchneeded transformation in the country’s health sector.

The 8-Point Action Agenda include Bawat Pilipino, Ramdam ang Kalu-

sugan; Ligtas, dekalidad, at mapagkalingang serbisyo; Teknolohiya para sa mabilis na serbisyong pangkalusugan; Handa sa Krisis; Pag-iwas sa sakit; Ginhawa sa Isip at Damdamin; Kapakanan at Karapatan ng Health Workers; and, Proteksyon sa anumang pandemya.

For 2023, the health department has sustained a one-stop shop program that provides government health services for indigent patients by putting up more Malasakit Centers across the country.

As of September, there are already 159 Malasakit Centers, with the latest inaugurated at the Bislig District Hospital in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur. The DOH said it has also continued to engage with stakeholders through various meetings, seminars, and conferences that would help strengthen the implementation of UHC. The DOH also said it has taken President Marcos’ directive to pursue a whole-of-society approach in combating tuberculosis, or TB, and HIV/ AIDS.

PBBM upgrades 7 colleges, universities

By Vince Lopez

P

RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed into law seven legislative measures that aim to enhance and expand the capacities of higher education institutions (HEIs) in different provinces across the country.

Under Republic Act (RA) No. 11968, President Marcos granted the conversion of the San Isidro Satellite campus of the Leyte Normal University (LNU) in San Isidro, Leyte to a regular campus, which

will be referred to as the “LNU-San Isidro Campus.”

He also signed into law RA No. 11969, converting the Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU)-Bagac Extension

Campus in Bagac, Bataan to a regular campus that will be known as “BPSUBagac Campus.”

Mr. Marcos also signed laws that established Colleges of Medicine such as the Benguet State University-College of Medicine (RA 11970) in La Trinidad, Benguet, and Southern Luzon State University-College of Medicine (RA 11971) in Lucban, Quezon.

The President also signed into law RA No. 11972, which established the University of Eastern Philippines-College of Medicine in Catarman, Northern Samar and RA No.

11974, the Visayas State University-College of Medicine in Baybay, Leyte.

Under the newly created laws, the HEIs can now proceed with offering a Doctor of Medicine Program, including an Integrated Liberal Arts and Medicine Program to develop a corps of professional physicians and help strengthen the country’s healthcare system.

The laws also aim to respond to the human resource development needs of their respective provinces.

The President also signed into law RA No. 11973, which established Bi-

col University-College of Veterinary Medicine in Ligao City, Albay to produce a corps of professional veterinary physicians who are adept in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and control of animal diseases, including terrestrial and aquatic animals.

President Marcos signed the new laws on December 20, which will take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette, or in a newspaper of general circulation. Complete copies of the newly-signed laws are accessible in the Official Gazette.

Go cites importance of Regional Speciality Center Law to close gaps in health services

By Macon Ramos-Araneta SENATOR Christopher Go said the newlysigned Republic Act No. 11959 or the Regional Specialty Centers Law will bridge the gaps in Philippine healthcare services.

Go, in a statement, emphasized the need for the law, stating, “As the principal sponsor and one of the authors of the measure together with no less than Senate President Migz Zubiri, I have long recognized the need to bring specialized medical services to more poor and indigent Filipino patients, most of them living outside Metro Manila where most, if not all, of our national specialty centers are found.

Go is the principal sponsor and one of the authors of the law which was recently signed by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. RA 11959 mandates the establishment of specialty centers throughout the country

to enhance the accessibility of specialized medical services for Filipinos.

The law seeks to decentralize the availability of specialized medical services, traditionally concentrated in the capital city, and distribute them to Department of Health (DOH) hospitals in every region.

Highlighting the urgency and the expected benefits of this move, Go remarked, “In doing so, we will be bringing essential specialty medical services closer to our people---particularly the hopeless, helpless, and those who have no one to turn to except the government.”

“The Regional Specialty Centers will also help decongest our existing national specialty centers, such as the National Center for Mental Health in Mandaluyong City, the Philippine Heart Center, and the National Kidney and Transplant Institute in Quezon City,” he added.

TRAFFIC STOPPER. A large crane along Quezon Blvd. in Quiapo, Manila caused traffic flow to slow down. The crane was part of ongoing repair works in the said area. Norman Cruz

PCSO vows to work with more institutions on children’s welfare THE Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) on Thursday vowed to collaborate with more institutions focused on the welfare of vulnerable children in the coming year.

“There are many institutions catering to our vulnerable sectors, particularly children, who need support.

Makakaasa po ang mga kababayan natin na sa susunod na taon ay tututukan natin ang mga ito (We assure the public that we will focus on these

sectors next year),” PCSO chairperson Junie Cua said in a statement.

Cua issued the statement following a recent visit to the Philippines’ first SOS Children’s Village in Lipa, Batangas.

SOS Children’s Villages is an international, non-governmental organization focused on supporting children without parental care as well as families at risk.

During the visit, Cua committed to collaborative projects supporting the organization’s

children-focused programs.

He also highlighted the role that the PCSO’s Institutional Partnership Program (IPP) can play in helping children and other vulnerable sectors.

“We are able to assist and support various welfare institutions and charitable medical facilities across the country through the IPP. Pipilitin po natin na mas marami pa ang makinabang na organisasyon dito upang madagdagan din ang mga batang

naaalagaan natin (We will exert all efforts to ensure that more organizations and more children will benefit from the IPP),” Cua said.

Through the IPP, the PCSO grants P300,000 to qualified organizations to help finance charity services to poor and marginalized sectors in local communities.

In 2022, the PCSO helped 62 institutions for a total amount of P28.3 million.

DSWD hails Cebu Pacific’s contributions to government response during disasters

By Joel E. Zurbano

CLEARING OPERATIONS. Metropolitan Manila Development Authority

personnel, under the supervision of Special Operations Group - Strike Force OIC Gabriel Go, conducted a clearing operation along NIA Road in Quezon City on Thursday. The purpose of the operation was to alleviate heavy traffic in the area. Manny Palmero

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has recognized Cebu Pacific Air (CEB) for its contribution in providing logistical support during calamities and disasters.

The DSWD commended CEB, along with other government agencies, private organizations, and dedicated volunteers, for delivering humanitarian assistance and relief to communities in need.

“We would like to express our sincerest gratitude to our valued partners and volunteers who extended their support to the National Resource and Logistics Management Bureau in delivering immediate responses to families affected by various calamities,” Diana Rose Cajipe, DSWD Undersecretary for Disaster Response Management Group, said.

“We are grateful to have you as our

volunteers and partners and commend all of you for your outstanding contributions to alleviating the suffering of vulnerable and disadvantaged people during crises,” she added.

In 2023, CEB airlifted over 258 metric tons of humanitarian cargo, showcasing its dedication to supporting communities during times of crisis.

Cebu Pacific’s chief corporate affairs officer, Michael Ivan Shau, emphasized the airline’s purpose goes beyond flying and focuses on connecting and supporting communities, especially during challenging times.

“We are honored to contribute to the government’s noble efforts in making a difference in the lives of those in need,” Shau said.

CEB is committed to social responsibility and advancing humanitarian causes, envisioning collaborative initiatives that provide sustainable and impactful change for the people.

Immigration agents arrest Israeli nat’l with fake passport

By Vito Barcelo BUREAU of Immigration (BI) agents arrested an overstaying Israeli national for attempting to leave the country by presenting a fake Philippine passport.

BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said the passenger, a 28-year-old Israeli national of Philippine descent, was intercepted at the NAIA terminal 3 where he was supposed to board a Cebu Pacific flight to Denpasar, Indonesia.

The BI chief said that after presenting himself to the immigration officer at the BI counter for departure formalities, the man handed over a Philippine passport which turned out to be fake as evidenced by the glaring irregularities immediately noticeable in the passport’s bio-page.

“When asked by the immigration officer how and where he obtained the said passport, the passenger readily admitted that he procured the same from a fixer for a fee of P10,000,” according to BI-border control and intelligence unit (BCIU deputy chief Joseph Cueto.

Upon verification with the BI’s forensic documents laboratory, it was confirmed that the entire document was counterfeit.

Reacting to the incident, Tansingco warned would-be travelers not to accept offers from fixers.

NEWS

A4

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

House ratifies bill on teachers’ supply allowance

By Rio N. Araja

DRESS REHEARSAL. Personnel of the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Marines are immerse in a drill at the Rizal Park preparatory to the celebration of the 127th Rizal Day on Saturday, December 30. Norman Cruz

BOC runs after Bataan fuel smugglers

By Joel E. Zurbano

T

HE Bureau of Customs (BOC) is running after the members of a fuel smuggling ring in Bataan following the seizure last Dec. 16 of P7.8 million worth of smuggled diesel and gasoline from a privately owned port in the province.

The Customs Intelligence and InvesAccording to Customs Commissioner tigation Service (CIIS) is also tracking Bienvenido Rubio, the CIIS team raided down four tankers allegedly involved in the private port and discovered 16 lorthe smuggling operation. ries trucks and one tanker vessel. The

raid resulted in the seizure of 158,00 liters of unmarked diesel worth P7 .8 million and 4,000 liters of unmarked gasoline worth P1,759.

Four other tankers are believed to have been part of the smuggling operations are being tracked down.

Rubio tapped the CIIS to conduct further investigation and identify the groups behind the fuel-smuggling activity.

“Despite the holiday season, the bureau is working diligently to track down the four other tankers, and we will get to the bottom of this violation of our laws,” Rubio said.

Last Dec. 20, the office of the district collector of Port of Limay issued a warrant of seizure and detention (WSD) against 16 trucks with attached tanker trailers and one tanker vessel for violating Sections 117 and 1113 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) and Republic Act (RA) 10963, also known as The Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN Law).

The lorries, tanker trailers, and tanker vessel were turned over to the Auction and Cargo Disposal Division of the Port of Limay.

Malabon cops nab 2 fugitives for not wearing helmets

Nine OFWs, 5 kids home safe after fleeing Lebanon NINE overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and five children are now home safe after fleeing the fighting in Lebanon between Israeli forces and Hezbollah militants.

The Department of Foreign (DFA) said the group arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 in Pasay City via flight PAL PR685.

Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Assistant Secretaries Venecio Legaspi and Francis Ron de Guzman were on hand to welcome the repatriated OFWs and the children.

The OFWs received aid from the DMW and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), including on-site assistance and reintegration services.

So far, a total of 111 OFWs in Lebanon have been repatriated to the Philippines.

CAMARINES Sur Rep. LRay Villafuerte on Thursday said the House of Representatives has ratified a proposed law doubling the 800,000 public school teachers’ P5,000-annual allowance for supplies.

Congress has approved on third and final reading the proposed Teaching Supplies Allowance Act seeking to raise the supplies allowance of public elementary and secondary teachers from the current P5,000 to P10,000.

The Senate passed its version of the measure earlier this year.

Before going on their fiveweek yearend break starting Dec. 14, the lawmakers unanimously passed House Bill 9682 which Speaker Martin Romualdez said was in recognition of the “selfless service of our educators” and to “advance the welfare of public school teachers.”

From the present P5,000 annual allowance, the House-approved bill raised the amount to P7,500 for school year 2024-2025, and to P10,000 in succeeding years.

The higher allowance would be included in the outlay of the Department of Education under the General Appropriations Act.

LUCBAN HEALTH CENTER. SM Foundation donates a newly renovated and refurbished Lucban Health Center to Baguio City. SMFI executive director for health and medical programs Connie Angeles turns over the facility to Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong and Dr. Ma. Lourdes Pakoy, acting assistant city health officer and medical officer of the Lucban Health Center. The 2-storey Lucban Health Center located in Brgy. Teodora Alonzo is the 201st wellness center rehabilitated by SM Foundation.

Koko okay with 58%-hike in ’24 gov’t travel funds OPPOSITION Senator Aquilino Pimentel III on Thursday said he does not oppose the 58-percent increase amounting to P1.408 billion in the government’s travel funds next year as provided for by the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

“The increase in the foreign and local trips budget is reflective of their plans

for 2024,” Pimentel noted. “If President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. intendsto travel more, then so be it.

He pointed out however, that the President should be aware that the people’s problems are “more local than he thinks.”

He said food production means the country needs to produce more food at the home front.

Pimentel also said food importation is not the same as food production.

Pimentel issued his remarks following the Dec. 20 enactment by President Ferdinand Marcos of the P5.768 trillion national budget for 2024 meant to finance key administration programs as the country moves in for a post-pandemic recovery. Macon Ramos-Araneta

THE long arm of the law finally caught up with two fugitives wanted by law enforcement authorities in Metro Manila for various criminal offenses.

Curiously, the suspects were collared on a simple case of not wearing the required helmets while riding in tandem aboard a motorcycle.

National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Maj. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. identified the suspects as Allan Soriano, 23, a resident of Binondo; and Sir Sandricks Vipinosa, 41, of Tondo, both in Manila.

Nartatez Jr. said the suspects were nabbed on Gov. Pascual St. corner Nangka Road in Barangay Potrero, Malabon City last Wednesday afternoon.

The policemen flagged down and arrested Soriano and Vipinosa who both yielded unlicensed firearms in their possession. Joel E. Zurbano

Mayor Treñas cites teamwork in road to greatness (Conclusion, continued from yesterday)

By Norman Cruz LOILO City—Mayor Jerry Treñas has underscored the value of teamwork in realizing their shared visions toward the city’s greatness in all of its endeavors.

“Some of the ideas or programs emanate from our city council while others from the executive, but if the whole team is working as one, things are easier. If we unite and work together, we go on continuously for more developments,” the mayor said.

Treñas said the awards, citations, and recognitions mustered by the city serve as an inspiration that propels significant strides toward achieving the city’s goal to be one of the Top 3 Most Liveable, Sustainable and Resilient highly urbanized cities in the country by 2028.

“I congratulate the departments and offices that worked so hard to attain these awards. For those that are not yet outstanding, there is still time for you to show us that you can perform better,” he said.

According to him, Iloilo City has gone a long way, but there is a need to sustain the efforts so far exerted.

“We really need to make sure everything that we do is sustained. Because if it is sus-

tained, can you imagine what Iloilo will be in 10 years. Kadaku na gid sang makambyo sa landscape sang Iloilo City,” he said.

The city mayor cited the importance of a close working relationship between the executive and the city council as one of the measures to ensure sustainability.

For Treñas, the multiple awards and recognitions the city reaped this 2023, rank second to the Ilonggos’ deep sense of pride for the city.

For receiving the highest rating of “Beyond Compliant,” Iloilo City exceeded the standards for the establishment and functionality of local (Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) councils and offices, and has best practices that are beyond the regular DRRM programs.

Meanwhile, the city’s renowned Iloilo Dinagyang Festival received Pearl Award this year after being adjudged as grand winner for Best Cultural Festival (City Category) by the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP).

Iloilo City was also declared by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) as the grand winner of Best Public Employment Service Office (PESO) for HUC category in Western Visayas and in the whole Philippines.

It also bagged the Unique Employment

Program award for its Uswag Negosyo Economic Boost to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The Iloilo City Public Information Office (PIO) likewise garnered awards during the 2023 Western Visayas Information Officers’ Year-end Conference and Awards.

The city PIO won the Best Performing Information Office, Best Performing Public Information Officer (Hall of Fame) for PIO head Ma. Lucy M. Sinay, Best Facebook Page, and second placer for Best Newsletter for Kauswagan, the city’s official publication.

The Iloilo City government and the City Health Office bagged a total of 10 regional health awards given by the Department of Health (DOH) Center for Health Development Region 6 under different categories, for exemplary performance and outstanding contributions in achieving health program benchmarks and core objectives.

These include the recognition for achieving 2.56 percent donation rate of successful non-remunerated blood donors; and for being a top performing LGU in reaching the target of 85 percent for Tuberculosis Treatment Coverage Rate for 2022, among others.

The Iloilo City Molecular Laboratory has also been hailed by the DOH as one of the Top 10 best-performing organizations with

ILOILO CITY COUNTS ITS BLESSINGS. Mayor Jerry cites Iloilo City’s growing list of awards, citations, and commendations, saying they are testimonials to concerted efforts to realize shared visions and missions on a common path toward greatness. Iloilo City PIO Exemplary Best Practices at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The City Assessor’s and Treasurer’s offices also garnered several awards and citations from Department of Finance Bureau of Local Government Finance 6 and Regional Association of Treasurers and Assessors in Region 6 this year, for having been ranked as Top 1 among all the

HUCs in Region 6 based on the Business Tax and Other Taxes Collection Efficiency; Highest Locally Sourced Revenue in Fees and Charges, in Real Property Tax, and in Economic Enterprise.

Trenas further acknowledged the strong public-private partnership – a big factor for the city’s continuous progress.

“Makita ta nga kon para sa kaayuhan

B1

OPINION

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2023

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

To The Point Emil P. Jurado

Ramon S. Ang: Person of the Year THIS column’s “Person of the Year,” without question goes to Ramon S. Ang, Chairman and Chief Executive of the country’s most diversified and largest conglomerate, San Miguel Corporation.

Undoubtedly, SMC has become the most diversified conglomerate, having gone beyond its core business in brewery and alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and foods to infrastructure, banking, airports, tourism and hotels.

SMC is also into expressways (the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX), the Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (STAR), South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), the Skyway System, and the NAIA Expressway (NAIAX).

It also has hundreds of Petron gas stations. Also included in its current portfolio are the Boracay Airport, the MRT-7 rail and road project, and the Bulacan Bulk Water Supply Project.

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It may surprise people to know that Ramon Ang grew up in Tondo and graduated from engineering in Far Eastern University, not from any of those famous Ivy League schools in the US

No less than the world’s foremost financial magazine, Fortune 500, has cited Ang for his philanthropic works for San Miguel’s billions of pesos efforts to clean the much polluted Pasig River, Metro Manila’s main waterway and its tributaries and adjoining rivers.

As of the latest count, SMC has dredged the river and its tributaries and adjoining rivers of no less than three billion tons of silt and garbage that made Pasig River almost non-passable through neglect and the fact that the river has become the recipient of much pollution because of factories near its banks.

Worse, the Pasig River had become the toilet bowl of informal settlers or squatters.

There were efforts before to clean the heavily and much polluted Pasig River until RSA made it San Miguel’s Corporate Social Responsibility or CSR, spending more than P3 billion of its funds without a peso from the government.

All it needed was the cooperation of the local government units (LGUs).

Soon enough, there will be a ferry service along the Pasig River to help ease Metro Manila’s heavily congested traffic.

San Miguel is even setting its sights on a more ambitious goal: cleaning up and rehabilitating three major river systems as well as other tributaries and waterways throughout Metro Manila, Pampanga, Cavite and Bulacan.

Dubbed as “SMC’s Adopt-a-River program,” the initiative is possibly the country’s biggest and most impactful corporate social responsibility effort in collaboration with the national and local governments.

SMC’s massive initiative covers the following: River systems in Bulacan including the Meycauayan, Maycapiz-Taliptip, and Mailad Rivers, the Bambang Creek, Marilao River, Sta. Maria River, Guiguinto River, Pamarawan River, Labangon-Angat River, Malolos River and Hagonoy River; Pampanga River; Maragondon River and other related tributaries in Cavite; Waterways in Navotas City, including Muzon River, Batasan River and the Navotas River; San Pedro River in Laguna; and the San Juan River.

Santa Banana, in my over seven decades as a journalist, possibly the only living journalist now at the age of 96, I have never seen efforts as massive and impactful as SMC’s, which will certainly stop so much flooding and loss of livelihood, which is the aim of this initiative.

With the effort of San Miguel to clean up all the esteros of Metro Manila, I can only imagine those days before World War II when I saw children diving in the clean esteros.

Now, they have become a big dumping ground for garbage and a big toilet bowl for the squatters living along those esteros.

Ramon S. Ang’s “Adopt-a-River Program” has even enticed the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to partner with SMC’s initiative to rehabilitate Luzon’s waterways.

I have nothing but admiration for RSA for making San Miguel what it is today.

This Christmas holiday, I have nothing but commendation and praise for RSA for my column’s “Person of the Year.” I couldn’t think of anyone but Ramon S. Ang. It may surprise people to know that Ramon Ang grew up in Tondo and graduated from engineering in Far Eastern University, not from any of those famous Ivy League schools in the US. It all began when the late Danding Cojuangco, chairman and CEO of San Miguel, took Ang in as his assistant.

The only common thing the two had was their love for vintage cars.

Citizen Barok

Louis ‘Barok’ Biraogo

Corruption in the Vatican THE recent conviction of Cardinal Angelo Becciu for financial crimes sends shock waves through the Vatican, shaking the very foundations of an institution steeped in history and tradition.

As the highest-ranking official within the Catholic Church to stand trial, Becciu’s fall from grace raises profound questions about the church’s standing in the modern world.

The Vatican has long been viewed as a moral compass, guiding millions of believers through the turbulent waters of life.

However, Becciu’s conviction tarnishes this image, revealing a darker side that threatens to erode the trust of the faithful.

The modern world demands transparency and accountability, and the church must grapple with the fallout from this scandal to maintain relevance.

Never before has a cardinal faced criminal charges within the Vatican’s hallowed halls.

This historic trial unveils cracks in the seemingly impenetrable walls of the church, forcing a reevaluation of its internal mechanisms. The Vatican’s response to this watershed moment will undoubtedly shape its trajectory for years to come.

As the news reverberates globally, competing religions may seize this opportunity to question the moral authority of the Catholic Church. Interfaith relations, already delicate, could be further strained, potentially impacting the church’s ability to

engage in meaningful dialogue with other religious communities.

The Catholic Church boasts a dedicated and vast following, with believers spanning the globe.

However, this scandal may test the loyalty of its adherents.

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Only through such a transformative journey can the church hope to emerge from this darkness into a renewed era of faith and trust

The faithful may question how such financial improprieties could occur within the church’s highest echelons, challenging their unwavering commitment.

Recommendations for the Church and Law Enforcers: 1. Transparency and Accountability: The church must embark on a path of unprecedented transparency. Open investigations into financial dealings should be conducted, and the findings made accessible to

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EDITORIAL

Strategic partnership with Japan

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US-made air surveillance radars in use since the 1950s.

The defense contract with Japan is significant as this is among the first that it has made after ending decades of a selfimposed ban on arms exports in 2014.

HE Marcos administration is on the right track in strengthening security cooperation with our neighbor Japan amid increased tension in the South China Sea.

—“—

We need to strengthen defense cooperation with Japan and other allied countries while we ramp up efforts to build a credible defense posture

We have begun to enhance defense ties with Japan with the recent acquisition by the Philippine Air Force of a warning and control radar system built by Mitsubishi Electric Corp.

This is the first of four long-range surveillance radars—three of them fixed and one in a mobile setup—ordered by the Department of National Defense in 2020 under a P5.5-billion government-to-government deal.

This radar system, which will operate as part of our integrated air defense system, will enable the military to detect potential aerial and naval threats from greater distances with increased precision, giving us quicker response times to intercept, according to the PAF. The Japanese-built radar system is stationed at Naval Station Ernesto Ogbinar, a former US air base known as Wallace Air Station, that retired its

We need to keep watch over 7,000 of our islands.

The PAF needs the radar system to monitor the entire archipelago with greater accuracy and efficiency.

This becomes especially crucial given the evolving security landscape in the region.

The radar system has a range of up to 556 kilometers for air targets and more than 926 km for ballistic missiles.

About Town

Ernesto M. Hilario

Power rates: Up, up and away pines one of the most expensive in Southeast Asia.”

The findings of that study done in 2016 remain valid to this day, as Manila has one of the highest energy costs not only in Asia but in the world.

As a distribution utility, Meralco is clearly a beneficiary of high power rates.

METRO Manila is the hub of economic activity in the country due to the heavy concentration of commercial and industrial firms in its 13 cities and one municipality.

This megacity of 14 million residents and just about any kind of business depends on the electricity provided by just one big private entity: the Manila Electric Company.

Meralco charges different rates for its residential and commercial customers.

While big commercial firms can afford to build their own small power plants using fossil fuels or renewable energy, the small ones must rely solely on Meralco for their power requirements.

Households depend almost entirely on Meralco for their electricity needs service.

It is estimated that a family of five sets aside from 15 to 20 percent of their regular expenses to keep their homes connected to the Meralco grid.

It has been said often enough that we have one of the highest electricity rates in Asia.

This is one compelling reason foreign investors would rather put their money elsewhere.

One study pointed this out: “Energy prices in the Philippines remain one of the most expensive compared to its Asian neighbors.

“An overall comparison among selected cities in Asia shows that Manila has the second highest overall residential electricity tariff next to Tokyo.”

The same study concluded: “Manila has the third highest generation cost and the highest grid cost in Asia based on residential electricity tariffs.

“These costs associated with producing energy combined with a 12 percent valueadded tax make energy prices in the Philip-

While it says that only 17 percent of the total consumer bill goes to it, what is not immediately obvious is that it also charges between 11 to 12 percent of our total bill under the heading of “miscellaneous.”

The miscellaneous components of Meralco’s electric billing encompasses a broad range of costs—subsidy for poor households or what’s called the “lifeline rate subsidy,” senior system subsidy, system loss, and other incremental expenses that varies from month to month.

What is not clear to many is that Mer-

the public. This commitment to accountability will be crucial in rebuilding trust.

2. Internal Reforms: Undertake a thorough review of internal processes and structures. Implement robust checks and balances to prevent future financial mismanagement and corruption.

The church’s hierarchy should demonstrate a genuine commitment to reforming its internal governance.

3. Cooperation with Law Enforcement: The Vatican must collaborate fully with civil authorities in investigating and addressing the financial crimes.

This collaboration underscores the church’s dedication to justice and serves as a

powerful symbol of accountability.

4. Pastoral Care for the Faithful: Acknowledge the pain and confusion this scandal may cause among the faithful.

Provide pastoral care, open lines of communication, and address concerns directly.

A united front from church leaders will be essential in guiding the faithful through this challenging period.

5. Global Interfaith Dialogue: Actively engage in interfaith dialogue to repair relations with other religious communities.

Acknowledge the wrongdoing, express contrition, and demonstrate a commitment to ethical conduct.

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

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What is clear at this point is that the Filipino consumer appears totally at the mercy of the lone power distributor in the country’s economic hub

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

The package includes radar support facilities and a command and control building located a few meters away from the radar tower.

The next three radar systems are expected to be delivered in the next two years.

Our hope is that bilateral cooperation with Japan will contribute to peace and stability in the region.

Tokyo’s continued support for our country’s military buildup reflects its grave concern over China’s recent increasingly aggressive behavior toward our Coast Guard vessels in the West Philippine Sea. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. is correct in pointing out that the radar upgrade is “one of the concrete steps that our strategic partner Japan has done in order to firm up our alliance.”

Japan has also pledged to provide a $4-million coastal radar surveillance system to the Philippine Navy under Tokyo’s new official security assistance program.

We need to strengthen defense cooperation with Japan and other allied countries while we ramp up efforts to build a credible defense posture against any threats to our national sovereignty and territorial integrity in the years ahead.

alco’s share in consumer billing depends not just on what it charges as a distributor utility.

It is also an electricity generator through its power generation arm, MGen, a major electricity producer using mainly coal and a fraction of natural gas.

The generation charge takes up the lion’s share of between 45 to 55 percent of our monthly consumer bill.

And there’s also the allowable rate of return that Meralco currently enjoys, which now stands at 14 percent from 9 percent a few years ago.

Add up all of that and you can’ help but end up with one conclusion: “The higher the rates, the higher will be Meralco’s earnings.” Its current profits, according to estimates, exceed P20 billion annually.

Is it possible for Meralco to act against its own interests and push rates down? Maybe.

Or maybe not.

What is clear at this point is that the Filipino consumer appears totally at the mercy of the lone power distributor in the country’s economic hub.

Congress passed the Electric Power Industry Reform Act or Epira many years ago to limit the ownership of generation assets by a single owner to only 30 percent of the generating capacity within a single grid.

The law was enacted to provide the principal regulatory framework for the Philippine electricity industry. It seeks to rationalize the industry and make power rates in the country affordable even to the masses.

But at the rate power rates are going through the roof, there’s apparently little that ordinary consumers can do but to grin and bear it.

Meralco’s broad scope of operations now covering a service area of 38 cities and towns within and outside Metro Manila allows the utility to practically ignore its mandate to provide reliable and affordable electricity service to consumers.

What it seems to have become is a monopoly that gives it the power to let electric rates to go up, up and away, and we cannot do anything about it.

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

The church’s ability to rebuild bridges with other faiths will be pivotal in restoring its global standing.

In the face of Cardinal Becciu’s conviction, the Catholic Church stands at a crossroads. Its response to this crisis will define its role in the modern era and shape the perceptions of millions of believers worldwide.

The path forward requires not only legal accountability but a profound commitment to ethical renewal and transparency.

Only through such a transformative journey can the church hope to emerge from this darkness into a renewed era of faith and trust.

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

Associate Editor Managing Editor News Editor

Honor Blanco Cabie Opinion Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

WORLD

B2 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Gaza deaths soar in war as WHO warns of hunger T

HE Hamas-run Gaza Strip’s health ministry has said war with Israel has killed more than 21,000, as Israel kept pounding the besieged territory with air strikes and shelling.

The World Health Organization (WHO) said Gazans were in “grave peril” after more than 11 weeks of fighting—triggered by Hamas’s deadly Oct 7 attacks on Israel—which left most hospitals in the Palestinian territory out of action and led to “acute hunger.”

Explosions lit up the sky over the southern Gaza city of Khan Yunis -- a focus of heavy urban combat since the Israeli army said it had largely gained control over Gaza’s north.

The Gaza health ministry said a strike hit a house near Al-Amal hospital in Khan Yunis, killing 22 people. Heavy firefights also raged again around Gaza City in the north.

Gaza’s spiraling humanitarian crisis has amplified calls for an end to the hostilities.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called on the international community to take “urgent steps to alleviate the grave peril facing the population of Gaza and jeopardizing the ability of humanitarian workers to help” the many in need.

In a statement, the WHO said “hungry people again stopped our convoys... in the hope of finding food”.

“WHO’s ability to supply medicines, medical supplies, and fuel to hospitals is being increasingly constrained by the hunger and desperation of people en route to, and within, hospitals we reach.”

Israel has repeatedly vowed to keep up the campaign to destroy Hamas, an

Islamist group blacklisted as a “terrorist” organization by the United States and the European Union.

The conflict erupted when Hamas gunmen attacked southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli figures.

Palestinian militants also took around 250 hostages, 129 of whom remain in captivity, Israel says.

Israel retaliated with a relentless bombardment and a siege of Gaza, launching a ground invasion on Oct 27.

At least 21,110 people have been killed, according to the latest toll issued by Gaza’s health ministry. It said 8,800 of them were children and 6,300 women.

Israel’s army blames armed groups for the high civilian death toll, charging that fighters hide in schools, hospitals and other civilian infrastructure, or in tunnels below them.

The army said 164 soldiers have been killed inside Gaza.

The war has raised fears of a broader regional conflagration, with deadly exchanges between Israel and Lebanon’s powerful Hezbollah movement, and Iranian calls for revenge after a strike blamed on Israel killed a senior general.

Gaza’s 2.4 million people have suffered severe shortages of water, food, fuel and medicines, with only limited aid entering the territory.

An estimated 1.9 million Gazans have been displaced, the UN says. AFP

MILESTONE MARKED. An undated handout picture released by the Royal Mint, received in London on

Wednesday shows a set of commemorative coins for 2024, the one held being a £2 coin with a design marking the 150th Anniversary of the birth of former British prime minister Winston Churchill. The Royal Mint revealed five new designs set to appear on UK commemorative coins in 2024. They will feature on a 50p, £2 and £5 coin, each one celebrating key events and anniversaries from the upcoming year -- bringing milestones to life on UK coins. AFP

Kim calls for ‘accelerated’ war preparations SEOUL—North Korean leader Kim Jong Un urged his party to “accelerate” war preparations including its nuclear program, state media said Thursday.

The comments came just a week after Kim warned Pyongyang would not hesitate to launch a nuclear attack if “provoked” with nukes.

Kim made the comments at the North’s ongoing year-end party meeting, where he is expected to unveil key policy decisions for 2024.

Kim asked the party to “further accelerate the war preparations” across sectors, including nuclear weapons and civil defense, Pyongyang’s official Korean Central News Agency reported.

He also stressed that the “military situation” on the Korean peninsula had become “extreme” due to “unprecedented” antiNorth confrontations with Washington.

Seoul, Tokyo and Washington have ramped up defence cooperation in

Michigan court nixes bid to bar Trump from crucial ballot WASHINGTON, DC—The Michigan Supreme Court on Wednesday (Thursday in Manila) rejected an attempt to remove Donald Trump from the crucial swing state’s primary ballot next year over his role in the 2021 storming of the US Capitol.

It was the latest in a series of bids to block Trump from appearing on ballots in multiple states under the 14th Amendment, which says officials who take an oath to support the US Constitution are banned from future office if they “engaged in insurrection.”

But Michigan’s high court said in a brief ruling it was “not persuaded that the questions presented should be reviewed by this court” ahead of the state’s February 27 presidential primary.

The ruling came a week after Colorado’s Supreme Court removed Trump from the state’s primary ballot over his role in the Capitol riot, which he is accused of inciting.

Trump, 77, hailed the Michigan decision, slamming a “Desperate Democrat attempt” to stack the deck against him as he seeks another term in the White House.

“This pathetic gambit to rig the Election has failed all across the Country, including in States that have historically leaned heavily toward the Democrats,” he posted on Truth Social, his social media platform.

Colorado’s highest court issued a stay, or freeze, of its bombshell ruling until January 4 pending an expected appeal by Trump’s lawyers to the US Supreme Court.

Granting the Colorado case for review would thrust the country’s top court into the center of the White House race, as any determination it makes on whether Trump engaged in insurrection and on his eligibility could be binding on lower courts nationwide.

The Michigan lawsuit was filed in September by liberal-leaning Free Speech For People, a pro-democracy advocacy group that also pursued an unsuccessful 14th Amendment challenge against Trump in Minnesota and has filed a case in Oregon. AFP

the face of a record-breaking series of weapons tests by Pyongyang this year and recently activated a system to share real-time data on North Korean missile launches.

Earlier this month, a US nuclear-powered submarine arrived in the South Korean port city of Busan, and Washington flew its long-range bombers in drills with Seoul and Tokyo.

The North has previously described the participation of US strategic assets -- such as B-52 bombers -- in joint drills on the Korean peninsula as the “intentional nuclear war provocative moves of the US.” Pyongyang this year successfully launched a reconnaissance satellite, enshrined its status as a nuclear power in its constitution, and test-fired the most advanced intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) in its arsenal.

Kim earlier this week defined 2023 as

TOURISM BLOW.

A couple prepare to pose for a photograph Wednesday in front of the Eiffel tower, closed after staff went on strike on the 100th anniversary of the death of engineer Gustave Eiffel who built the tower, in Paris. The Eiffel Tower, one of the world’s top tourist attractions, was closed Wednesday after staff went on strike to protest against ‘the current way it is managed,’ the hard-left CGT union said in a statement. AFP

New York Times sues OpenAI, Microsoft in copyright clash WASHINGTON, DC—The New York Times sued ChatGPT-maker OpenAI and Microsoft in a US court on Wednesday (Thursday in Manila), alleging that the companies’ powerful AI models used millions of articles for training without permission.

Through their AI chatbots, the companies “seek to free-ride on The Times’ massive investment in its journalism by using it to build substitutive products without permission or payment,” the lawsuit said.

Copyright is becoming a major battleground for the much-hyped generative AI sector, with publishers, musicians and artists increasingly lawyering up

to get paid for technology that is being built with their content.

With the suit, The New York Times also chose the more confrontational response to the sudden rise of AI chatbots, in contrast to other media groups such as Germany’s Axel Springer or the Associated Press that have entered content deals with OpenAI. “If The Times and other news organizations cannot produce and protect their independent journalism, there will be a vacuum that no computer or artificial intelligence can fill,” said the Times’ complaint.

“Less journalism will be produced, and the cost to society will be

enormous.”

The Times, one of the most respected news organizations in the United States, is seeking damages, as well as an order that the companies stop using its content for the training of AI models -- and destroy data already harvested.

While no sum is specifically requested, the Times alleges that the infringement could have cost “billions of dollars in statutory and actual damages.”

Microsoft, the world’s second biggest company by market capitalization, is a major investor in OpenAI, and swiftly implemented the powers of AI in its own products after the release of ChatGPT last year. AFP

a “year of great turn and great change” in which Pyongyang saw “eye-opening victories.”

Last week, the United Nations atomic agency said a second reactor at North Korea’s Yongbyon nuclear facility appeared to be operational, calling it “deeply regrettable.”

North Korea is likely to “deploy tactical nuclear weapons in areas near the inter-Korean border” and further advance its nuclear program in the new year, Ahn Chan-il, a defector-turned-researcher who runs the World Institute for North Korea Studies, told AFP. Pyongyang would make such moves to exert “great pressure” on South Korea and the United States, while maintaining close ties with traditional allies Russia and China, he added.

At last year’s year-end party meeting, Kim called “for an exponential increase of the country’s nuclear arsenal.” AFP

US releases final package of military aid for Kyiv WASHINGTON, DC—The US government on Wednesday (Thursday in Manila) announced what it said was the last remaining package of weapons available for Ukraine under existing authorization, with Congress now needing to decide whether to keep supporting Kyiv’s battle against Russian invasion.

“The year’s final package” includes air-defense and artillery munitions, the State Department said in a statement.

It added that Congress, where Republicans are split on supporting Ukraine, should “act swiftly” to renew the flow.

President Joe Biden has made backing Ukraine a priority and US weapons and financial assistance have been crucial in helping the pro-Western country battle against a far larger attacking Russian force.

However, right-wing Republicans have led a push to halt the effort, refusing to authorize new budget outlays if the Democrats don’t first agree to sweeping, tough new measures against illegal migration over the US southern border.

The final tranche of aid is worth up to $250 million and includes “air-defense munitions, other air-defense system components, additional ammunition for high mobility artillery rocket systems, 155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition, anti-armor munitions, and over 15 million rounds of ammunition,” the State Department said. AFP

India targeting high-profile journalists with Pegasus spyware—Amnesty, Post

VENEZUELAN OIL SLICKS. Volunteers and workers of the Venezuelan state oil company PDVSA wear protective equipment during a cleaning operation after an oil spill at the El Palito refinery in Puerto Cabello, Carabobo state, Venezuela on Wednesday. The oil slicks, which cover vast stretches of the lakeshore, are the result of constant leaks from underwater oil wells and a spaghetti of aging pipelines that run along the lake bottom. AFP

NEW DELHI, India—India’s government has again targeted high-profile journalists with Pegasus spyware, Amnesty International and The Washington Post said in a joint investigation published Thursday.

Created by Israeli firm NSO Group, Pegasus can be used to access a phone’s messages and emails, peruse photos, eavesdrop on calls, track locations and even film the owner with the camera.

Watchdogs have documented widespread use of the spyware—which is normally only sold to governments or security agencies—against journalists and activists in dozens of countries, in-

cluding India.

Amnesty said journalists Siddharth Varadarajan of The Wire and Anand Mangnale of The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project had been targeted with the spyware on their iPhones.

“Increasingly, journalists in India face the threat of unlawful surveillance simply for doing their jobs,” said Donncha O Cearbhaill, head of Amnesty International’s Security Lab. That threat compounds an already hostile climate for reporters also facing “imprisonment under draconian laws, smear campaigns, harassment, and intimidation”, he added. AFP

BUSINESS

B3 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2023

extrastory2000@gmail.com

ACEN subscribes to P12.6-b shares in six solar, wind project developers

By Alena Mae S. Flores

SSPC said it would use the subscription for the development of the proposed 60-megawatt solar power plant in San Manuel, Pangasinan.

ACEN said it also signed a subscription contract with whollyowned subsidiary Santa Cruz Solar for an additional 13,058,894 common A shares and 117,530,048 RPS A shares for P1.3 billion.

Santa Cruz Solar said it would use the subscription to fund continuing works for the construction of the San Marcelino Solar Energy Power Plant Project (Phases 1 and 2) in San Marcelino, Zambales.

ACEN also announced it signed a subscription contract with whollyowned subsidiary SolarAce2 to subscribe to 2,500,000 RPS for P250 million.

It said the subscription price would be used by SolarAce2 for development activities relating to renewable energy projects.

ACEN further signed a subscription

ACEN Corp. is pursuing an aggressive renewable energy expansion program by subscribing to additional shares worth a combined P12.6 billion in its wholly-owned subsidiary project companies that are developing solar and wind projects.

ACEN issued separate disclosures on Thursday on the subscription of the company to additional shares in wholly-owned subsidiaries Sinocalan Solar Power Corp. (SSPC), Santa Cruz Solar Energy Inc., Gigasol 1, Inc., SolarAce2, Giga Ace 8, Inc. and Giga Ace 6, Inc. The Ayala Group’s energy platform said it signed a subscription contract with its wholly-owned subsidiary SSPC for the additional subscription to 70,800,387 redeemable preferred A shares (RPS A) for P708 million. This was equivalent to 24.8 percent of the total outstanding shares of SSPC at P10 apiece.

PARK REHABILITATION. The Aboitiz Group renews its commitment to the Buhisan Rehabilitation project through a tree planting ceremony on Dec. 20, 2023 at the Buhisan Watershed Forest Reserve, Barangay Buhisan, Cebu City. Joining the event are (from left) Buhisan barangay chairman and SMU 1 president Gremar Barete, Aboitiz Foundation Inc. chief operating officer Mardi Mapa-Suplido, Visayan Electric Company president and COO Raul Lucero and Philippine Business for Social Progress executive director Elvin Uy.

Stocks rebound on 2024 market outlook P

By Jenniffer B. Austria

HILIPPINE stocks climbed Thursday, sending the benchmark index above the 6,500 level as investors bet that interest rates will start going down next year.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index advanced by 56.31 points, or 0.87 percent, to close at 6,519.11, while the broader all-share index went up 24.70 points, or 0.72 percent, to settle at 3,440.59.

“The index returned above the 6,500 level on thin trading as investor sentiment remained positive about the local market’s prospects for 2024,” China Bank Capital managing director Juan Paolo Colet said.

“We saw the same optimism across most Asian markets on the back of growing bets on the dovish direction of interest rates next year,” Colet said.

Meanwhile, Asian stocks were largely higher on Thursday, with Hong Kong leading the gains as investors worked on expectations the US Federal Reserve will cut rates next year.

Global markets have been on the front foot since the Fed’s most recent meeting, when it signaled its rate-hike cycle could be nearing an end as global inflation slows.

Other than Japan, most Asian bourses were in positive territory on Thursday, with Shanghai, Seoul, Sydney, Taipei, Wellington, Jakarta, Manila, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur all rising.

Tokyo closed down almost half a percent, weighed by a strengthening yen, with the currency buoyed by expectations around the Fed’s monetary policy and gaining more than 1.3 percent.

The Japanese exchanges’ performance was also hemmed by the fact that the right to claim dividends for many shares has now expired, driving down

the overall market.

Hong Kong and Seoul led regional gains across Asia, with the Hang Seng rising more than 2.5 percent in ongoing trading.

On Wednesday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average led gains on Wall Street, advancing 0.3 percent to finish at another all-time high of 37,665.52.

US indices returned to work on Tuesday, but European markets were only back on Wednesday, with London leading the way as it closed 0.4 percent higher. With AFP

Globe optimistic on data center operations, e-vehicle expansion

By Darwin G. Amojelar GLOBE Telecom Inc. said Thursday it is optimistic about the business climate next year with the expansion of its cutting-edge data center operations and the introduction of the Gogoro two-wheel electric vehicles (EV).

The telecom unit of the Ayala Group said it expects to maintain its business trajectory in 2024 following an all-time high in consolidated service revenues in the first nine months at P121.1 billion despite the challenging macroeconomic conditions.

“We remain optimistic for 2024. We are hopeful that inflation and interest rates have already reached peak levels,” Globe president and chief executive Ernest Cu said.

“We are very confident that given the state of competition in the market, given our people’s continued efforts, and our market position, we’ll be able to sustain

a lot of what has happened in our mobile and fixed line side of our telco business this year,” he said.

Cu said he was particularly excited over Globe’s ambitious data center business led by ST Telemedia Global Data Centres (Philippines), a joint venture between Globe, Ayala Corp. and STT GDC of Singapore.

Responding to the growing demand for hyperscale quality locations in the Philippines, STT GDC Philippines recently held the groundbreaking of a 6-MW data center in Cavite, echoing the high standards of its planned 124MW facility in Fairview.

These next generation data centers are designed to cater to the increasing needs of enterprise businesses and hyperscalers for reliable, high-quality data services, marking a significant step in Globe’s expansion strategy. These facilities are expected to generate revenues for Globe and its partners by 2025.

TOURISM RECOVERY. Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) led by senior vice president and chief revenue officer Ferdinand Geluz (eighth from right) spearheads a key industry engagement entitled ‘Rebound, Resurgence and Resilience: The Path to Sustainable Growth in the Tourism, Hospitality and Gaming Industry’ on Dec. 13 in support of the continuing post-pandemic recovery. Also joining the insightful discussions are Department of Tourism Undersecretary Shereen Gail Yu-Pamintuan (center), Travelers International Hotel Group Inc. president and chief executive Kingson Sian (seventh from right), Solaire North senior vice president of resort operations Gianpietro Iseppi (eighth from left) and Leechiu Property Consultants director for hotels, tourism and leisure Alfred Lay.

Bataan-Cavite bridge link faces complex environmental issues Out in the Open Ray S. Eñano

IT IS being touted by many as the biggest flagship project of the Marcos administration. The Asian Development Bank calls the 32.15-kilometer Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge (BCIB), or Manila Bay Bridge, a climate-resilient bridge that will connect Bataan and Cavite provinces across Manila Bay and decongest Metro Manila traffic.

Few will argue about the economic benefits of the mega infrastructure project. The ADB says it will enable greater mobility of labor and goods and enhance economic productivity in the country’s largest region of Luzon.

The BCIB Project, according to an ADB statement early this month, will complete the transport loop around Manila Bay and better link Metro Manila to central Luzon and nearby Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon provinces. The project, it added, will help boost economic activity in these areas, which together account for 60 percent of the country’s gross domestic product.

“This project will transform the economic landscape of central Luzon, unlock the full potential of Bataan and Cavite for trade, manufacturing, and industrial output, and boost their tourism,” said ADB vice-president for East

and Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Scott Morris. “Once completed, BCIB will offer a platform for reimagining a more vibrant, resilient, and dynamic greater Manila Bay area.”

Such infrastructure projects are aimed at speeding up the flow of services and goods. Like toll roads, airports and seaports, the BCIB will create new economic opportunities and jobs. It will reduce travel time between Bataan and Cavite to 1.5 hours from 5 hours, and to about 2 hours from 4 hours between Bataan and Metro Manila.

The traffic decongestion in Metro Manila and the reduced travel time will help lower annual greenhouse gas emissions in the country by an estimated 79,000 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, the ADB justified.

The project, it says, will build one of the world’s longest marine bridges, including 2 cable-stayed bridges, 24 km of marine viaducts, and a total 8 km of approach road in the two provinces.

BCIB will provide the road connectivity to Manila, Cavite, and southern Luzon that will boost Bataan’s potential to host more manufacturing industries in the Freeport Area of Bataan, the only freeport in the Manila Bay area, making it an ideal transshipment hub. The project can also help expand the use of Bataan’s Mariveles port to provide an alternative to the busy port of Manila.

“The bridge will offer easier access from northern Luzon to Cavite, one of the most industrial-

—“—

It may cause permanent damage to corals resting on the floor of Manila Bay, alter the ecosystems around the body of water and obstruct the natural flight patterns of bird species. ized provinces in the country, and host to businesses in the service, export, logistics services, facilities, and information technology sectors.”

But as in any mega infrastructure project, the Manila Bay Bridge presents many environmental challenges and risks. It may cause permanent damage to corals resting on the floor of Manila Bay, alter the ecosystems around the body of water and obstruct the natural flight patterns of bird species.

The ADB has prepared a comprehensive impact study on the environmental and livelihoods impact of the bridge project. It conceded that fishing birds that hunt in the waters along the BCIB alignment may be indirectly affected by construction activities that may degrade fish local populations..

The project’s Environmental Impact Assessment study provided a comprehensive report on

the potential environmental impacts of the large and complex project, “one which spans a diversity of ecosystem types, environmental resources and land use patterns, and which will require several years to build and will operate for upwards of a century.”

“Placement of the infrastructure on land unavoidably displaces existing agricultural uses as well as terrestrial biodiversity resources, and the footprints of the marine foundations do the same to benthic habitat, including coral habitat in some locations,” the report conceded.

The bridge link will also be a bane to fishermen making a living from the bounties of Manila Bay. The ADB study proposed a livelihood restoration program, including cash compensation, and a plan to establish a string of fish sanctuaries along the entire length of the BCIB alignment.

The government, through the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, may also have to relocate displaced coral habitat from the construction site to other suitable areas.

The Manila Bay Bridge, unfortunately, will alter the biodviversity landscape of the bay area and disrupt the livelihood of fishermen along the coastlines of Cavite and Bataan provinces. The government should do its best to minimze the bridge’s environmental impact.

E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com

BUSINESS

B4

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2023

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

PH remains a bright spot in Asia—DOF

By Darwin G. Amojelar

T

HE Philippines remains one of the brightest spots in the region despite global challenges such as elevated inflation and slower growth, the Department of Finance said Thursday.

TECH SOLUTIONS. PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. usher 14,442 farmers, fisherfolk, cooperatives and micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) towards digitalization through their tech-enabled solutions in 2023, representing a 40-percent increase from 2022. Under its livelihood advocacy, PLDT and Smart enable them to participate in the digital economy.

The Philippine economy, as measured by the gross domestic product (GDP), grew by 5.5 percent in the first three quarters of 2023––the fastest among the major economies of China (5.2 percent), Indonesia (5.1 percent), Vietnam (4.2 percent), Malaysia (3.9 percent), Thailand (2.0 percent) and Singapore (0.5 percent).

“Despite elevated domestic and world inflation, slow global economic growth, trade restrictions and geopolitical tensions, the Philippines remains to be among the brightest spots in the region,” Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said.

Economic expansion remained broad-based as all major production sectors posted year-on-year (YoY) growths in three quarters, led by servic-

es (7.0 percent), industry (3.7 percent) and agriculture (1.1 percent).

Multilateral organizations recognize the strong economic performance of the Philippines and expect the country’s expansion to be one of the fastest among its regional peers in 2023, with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) forecasting a growth of 5.7 percent, the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) and World Bank (WB) at 5.6 percent and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) at 5.3 percent.

Meanwhile, the Philippines’ external performance remains strong with gross international reserves (GIR) rising to $102.7 billion as of end-November 2023, from $101.0 billion in endOctober.

“The Figaro Coffee Group and Kitchen City have been partners since before the pandemic. Kitchen City selected FCG as its coffee provider due to the latter’s commitment to delivering quality and affordable products. With more than 13 outlets distributed across Kitchen City concessionaires, schools, offices and manufacturing companies, FCG has successfully established a strong presence in various sectors,” FCG’s brand and partnership director Ace Azarraga

said.

Kitchen City president Ricardo Abelardo Jr. said the opening of Lobby Café is a celebration of long-term planning of a vision, consistently offering good service and option for world trade clients.

FCG said it continues to expand not only by opening stores but also by teaming up with other big companies like Kitchen City. FCG operates a network of retail restaurants, including Figaro Coffee and Angel’s Pizza.

DOTr expects to sign NAIA deal in March Kitchen City, Figaro team up to open Lobby Café at World Trade Center

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) expects to sign the P171-billion contract to rehabilitate, optimize and maintain the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) by March 15, 2024, an official said Thursday.

DOTr Undersecretary for planning and project development and pre-qualification bids and awards committee (PBAC) chair Timothy John Batan said GMR Airports Consortium, Manila International Airport Consortium (MIAC), Asian Airport Consortium (AAC) and SMC SAP & Company Consortium were prequalified for the NAIA bidding.

Aboitiz InfraCapital, Ayala’s AC Infrastructure Holdings Corp., Alliance Global-Infracorp, Filinvest and JG Summit Holdings comprise the Manila International Airport Consortium.

Asian Airport Consortium is composed of Asian Infrastructure and Management Corp., Cosco Capital Inc., Philippine Skylanders Inc. and PT Angkasa Pura II. Also joining the bidding were GMR Airports International B.V., Cavitex Holdings Inc. and House of Investments, Inc. of GMR Airports Consortium; and SMC SAP Company Consortium, which is formed by San Miguel Holdings Corp., RMM Asian Logistics Inc., RLW Aviation Development Inc. and Incheon International Airport Corp.

Batan said the PBAC began undertaking detailed evaluation of the bids for 10 days from Dec. 27 to Jan. 6, 2024.

He said the department would announce the qualified bidders by Jan. 11 and open the technical proposals on Jan. 15.

The opening of the financial proposals of the successful bidders was tentatively set on Feb. 7, while the result of the evaluation would be announced Feb. 14.

Batan said the PBAC aimed to issue the notice of award on Feb. 15.

The deadline for submission of postaward requirements by the winning bidder was set on March 6.

Darwin G. Amojelar

By Jenniffer B. Austria THE Kitchen City, a full-service catering and event planning company, teamed up with restaurant chain Figaro Coffee Group Inc. (FCG) to open Lobby Café at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

FGC said in a disclosure to stock exchange Thursday they chose the World Trade Center Metro Manila as the location of their first collaboration as it is

a venue of major exhibitions and trade shows attended by foreign delegations and buyers from different parts of the world.

The location also offers a fullyequipped facility in a strategic location that offers excellent visitor mileage and accessibility to international airports, seaports, entertainment and cultural facilities, five-star hotel accommodations as well as the central business district of Makati.

11-month budget deficit fell 10% to P1.11t on slower gov’t spending

CEBU PACIFIC’S AWARD. Cebu Pacific receives an appreciation award from the Department of Social Work and Development (DSWD) for its significant contribution in providing logistical support during calamities and disasters.

Attending the award ceremony are (from left) DSWD-National Resource and Logistics Management Bureau (NRLMB) chief administrative officer Irish Flor Yaranon, DSWD Undersecretary Diana Rose Cajipe of Disaster Response Management Group, Cebu Pacific corporate communications specialist Roxanne Gochuico, Cebu Pacific corporate communications manager Marga Lera, NRLMB officer-in-charge Leo Quintilla and NRLMB resource management chief Mark Poul Agner.

THE government’s budget deficit went down by 24.75 percent in November to P93.3 billion from a year ago on lower public spending and improved revenue collection, the Bureau of the Treasury said Thursday.

Data showed the lower budget deficit in November brought the 11-month fiscal deficit to P1.111 trillion, down by 10.09 percent from a year earlier. This also represented 74.10 percent of the P1.499-trillion deficit programmed for 2023.

Revenues in November rose 2.8 percent to P340.4 billion from last year’s P331.1 billion, driven by the sharp increase in non-tax collection. As a result, the cumulative collection in the 11-month period went up by 8.75 percent to P3.564 trillion year-on-year, while representing 95.58 percent of the

Hot money yielded net inflows of $673m in November THE Philippines booked $673 million in net inflows of foreign portfolio investments in November 2023, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Thursday.

The BSP said transactions on foreign investments registered through authorized agent banks (AABs) showed gross inflows of $1.6 billion and gross outflows of $902 million during the month.

It said the net inflows were a reversal of the net outflows of $328 million posted in October 2023.

The $1.6 billion registered invest-

ments in November went up by $620 million, or 65 percent, from $954 million in October.

The top investors countries in November were the United Kingdom, Singapore, the United States, Luxembourg and Hongkong with combined share to total at 91.9 percent.

The $902 million gross outflows in November were lower by $381 million, or by 29.7 percent, compared to the gross outflows of $1.3 billion recorded in October.

Data showed that on a year-on-year basis, the $673 million net inflows in November went up by 37.7 percent from $489 million net inflows recorded in the same month in 2022.

The 11-month portfolio investments, however, resulted in net outflows $42 million, a reversal of the $794-million net inflows observed in the same period last year.

Registration of inward foreign investments is optional under the rules on foreign exchange (FX) transactions.

Darwin G. Amojelar

SM Center San Pedro mall opening spurs economic growth, businesses THE SM Group through property arm SM Prime Holdings Inc. is spurring local economic growth with the opening of a 23,000-square-meter shopping mall, SM Center San Pedro, in Laguna province.

Rested atop a hill-like spot in the city’s Upper Village, SM Center San Pedro is the fourth SM mall in the province, after SM City Santa Rosa, SM City Calamba and SM City San Pablo.

News of the mall opening was well received by San Pedrenses, said JheRico Sam Colina, chief information officer of the San Pedro City government as it is seen to spur more local activity.

“The people got excited when the news of SM opening in the area. To buy what they need, they usually go to the bayan, which is quite far away. For leisure, grocery, and whatnot, sometimes they even need to go to Biñan or as far as Muntinlup,” he said.

Access to goods can be quite challenging to navigate around the hilly areas in the city.

“We have a lower or the town proper and then the Upper Villages here in San Pedro. If you travel from here [where SM Center San Pedro is located] to the public market, it would take 30 to 40 minutes, by jeepney,” said Colina.

SM Center San Pedro, the 84th SM mall and the fourth in Laguna Province, spurs local growth especially within the community of Barangay United Bayanihan in the City of San Pedro.

P3.729 trillion full-year target.

The Treasury said 89.28 percent, or P3.182 trillion, was generated through taxes with the remaining 10.72 percent came from non-tax sources.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue’s (BIR) collection in November decreased to P210.2 billion (net of P1.2 billion tax refund) from P237.1 billion raised in the same month last year due to the shift in VAT remittance deadline.

Meanwhile, the agency’s 11-month collection reached P2.343 trillion, outperforming the previous year’s outturn by 8.64 percent or P186.3 billion and reaching 88.77 percent of the P2.639 trillion FY 2023 program.

Collections by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) slowed by 2.69 percent to P73.7 billion in November from a year ago. Darwin G. Amojelar

Gurīn of Singapore starts 75-MW solar project in Zambales

By Alena Mae S. Flores GURĪN Energy Pte Ltd., a Singaporeheadquartered renewable energy developer, broke ground on the 75-megawatt (MW) Palauig solar project in Zambales province.

“The groundbreaking ceremonies is a significant milestone in Gurīn Energy ‘s journey towards helping Asia with 100-percent renewable energy.

Once completed in 2024, the Palauig solar plant will produce enough clean energy to power more than 35,000 homes,” the company said.

Gurin said it reached financial close for the $60-million project. The 80-hectare farm will deploy up to 136,363 ground-mounted, energy efficient solar photovoltaic panels.

The project, expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2024, will create more than 550 jobs throughout the project lifecycle. Once operational, the solar farm will produce enough clean and zero-emission electricity to power more than 35,500 homes each year and avoid 53,100 metric tons of climate-changing emissions annually, which is equivalent to taking 11,500 combustion-engine cars off the road a year.

SPORTS

C1

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2023

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

Cavaliers rally to trounce Mavs; Suns torch Rockets LOS ANGELES—Cleveland’s Caris LeVert made the go-ahead threepointer with 2:03 to play as the Cavaliers rallied from a 20-point deficit to beat the Dallas Mavericks 113-110 on Wednesday.

Elsewhere, two-time NBA champion Kevin Durant delivered his 18th career triple-double to lead the Phoenix Suns to a much-needed win over the Houston Rockets, and the Philadelphia 76ers downed the Orlando Magic despite the absence of reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid.

In Dallas, the Mavericks looked on their way to following up their Christmas victory over Phoenix, as they led by as many as 20 on the way to a 15-point halftime lead.

Luka Doncic scored 39 points for Dallas and Seth Curry added 19 off the bench. But they went stone cold for five minutes in the fourth quarter as the Cavs unleashed a 15-0 scoring run to take a 111-105 lead with 1:13 to play.

LeVert scored 29 points off the bench for Cleveland. Jarrett Allen scored 24 points and grabbed 23 rebounds, and Isaac Okoro added 22 points for the Cavs, who were again without ailing star Donovan Mitchell or the injured Darius Garland and Evan Mobley.

A step-back three-pointer from Doncic pulled the Mavs within three points with 17.4 seconds remaining.

But on their final possession, Doncic was caught near midcourt and passed to Curry, whose last-gasp three-pointer was blocked by Max Strus. AFP

Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks drives to the basket against Jarrett Allen and Isaac Okoro of the Cleveland Cavaliers in the second half of their teams’ NBA game at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. AFP

Olympian Solis continues to inspire young PH lifters

By Peter Atencio

F

ILIPINO weightlifting icon Ramon Solis, since retiring in 1998, has never stopped inspiring the next generation of weighlifters to come up with their best lifts and heaviest heaves in all competitions that they join.

Ramon Solis (right) with Elreen Ando during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics

And that’s what Solis did when he encouraged one of three young lifters from the Province of Cebu to come up with their heaviest efforts in weightlifting in the recent the Philippine National Games-Batang Pinoy meet.

Sixteen-year-old Alberto Bacaro gave Cebu City one of its five gold medals when he raised a record total of 194 kilograms in the 16-17 year old 55-kg category at the Dacudao indoor court of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

“Bagong record itong binuhat. Nag-reduce kasi siya. Nag-overweight ng dalawang kilo,” said the 63-year-old Solis.

Solis, known as the first Cebuano weightlifting Olympian, was around when other Cebuano lifters grabbed gold medals, like Alex Daniel Buanghug (43kg boys, 12 years old and under), Althea Bacaro (40kg girls, 12 years old and under), Leonida Cambarijan (45kg women’s 18 years old and above) and Alberto Bacaro (55kg men’s 16-17 years old) as they topped their respective events for Cebu City.

“Talagang natuwa ako sa mga bata.

Kahit gaano kahirap sa training, nakaka-gold medal pa rin,”added Solis.

Solis also takes pride in having spurred Hidilyn Diaz in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where she won her first medal, a silver, and Elreen Ando for having placed seventh as well.

And now Diaz, a Tokyo Olympics gold medalist, is helping out as an assistant mentor in Jala Jala, Rizal Province.

Ando is a member of the University of Cebu varsity team in weightlifting which is coached by Solis.

Solis has represented the Philippines in international meets from 1975 to 1998, winning medals in the Southeast Asian Games from 1977 to 1997.

Solis competed in the men’s middle heavyweight event (90kgs) at the 1988 Summer Olympics and placed 17th.

At the 1998 Asian Games, Solis saw action in the men’s 105-kg event.

Since retiring, Solis has been the head coach for the Philippine weightlifting team, starting in August, 2019.

44-member PH swimming team announced THE Philippine Aquatics, Inc. released the names of 44 young swimmers – 22 boys and 22 girls – who qualified as members of the Philippine Team vying in the 11th Asian Age Group Aquatics Championships, which the country is set to host on February 26 to March 9 at the New Clark Aquatics Center in Capas, Tarlac.

In an official memorandum dated December 19 to all swimming stakeholders and duly signed by PAI Secretary General Batangas 1st District Congressman Eric Buhain, the 44 swimmers made FINA qualifying points during the National tryouts held last October at the Teofilo Yldefonso swimming pool in Manila.

The women’s 18-over squad is made up of World Championships veteran and Southeast Asian Games medalists Chloe Isleta of One Ilocos Sur and Xiandi Chua of TopSwim Club who are qualified to

swim in the 200m Individual Medley and 50m Freestyle garnering 762 and 749 World Aquatics points, respectively.

Joining them are Thanya Dela Cruz of Ayala Harpoons (50m breast,31.83), Erin Castrillo of Rising Atlantis (50m back,30.80), Alyssa Ng of Waver Runners (50m breast,33.97) and 2023 Philippine National Games six-gold medal winner and UAAP Most Outstanding Athlete Quendy Fernandez of Palawan Swim Club (100m back,1:05.49).

The men’s 18-above squad is composed of Joshua Gabriel Ang of Golden Sea Eagles (100m fly,54.63), Jemmuel Booh De Leon of Aklan Swimming Club (50m fly,25.00), Raymund Vera Paloma of Nautilus (400m free, 4:07.61), Rian Marco Tirol (50 m breast,29.49) and brothers Miguel (100m free, 51.79) and Rafael Barreto (100m fly, 55.44) of Ayala Harpoons.

EASL: Bolts fall short to SK Knights

PH Aquatics Secretary General Eric Buhain

MERALCO couldn’t pull off the same magic it did the last time and fell to Seoul SK Knights Wednesday night, 81-80, in the EASL Home and Away season at the Philsports Arena.

The Bolts rallied back from nine points down inside the final three minutes, but failed to complete the job as they botched what could have been the game-winner in the endgame.

Import Prince Ibeh lost control of the ball off a perfect feed by Chris Banchero underneath, resulting on a steal by Sunhyung Kim to preserve the win for the Korean side on the road.

The win allowed the Knights to break free from a tie with the Bolts as they evened their record at 2-2, while relegating the home team back at the bottom of the standings with a 1-3 slate in Group B. Meralco came to its first home game on a high following its stunning 97-88 overtime thriller over the Ryukyu Golden Kings at the Studio City Event Center in Macau in a game where it rallied back from four points down in the final 15 seconds of regulation and notched a breakthrough win.

For a while, the Bolts seemed headed for another escape act as they fought back from an 81-72 deficit with 2:40 left and threatened at 81-80 as they scored eight straight points in less than a minute behind the shooting of import Zach Lofton and Chris Newsome.

The home team even got a huge break when Seoul import Jameel Warney missed on a jumper with 14 seconds left, with Ibeh collaring the rebound.

Coming off a timeout, Meralco went on a drive-and-draw play that wasn’t completed as Ibeh couldn’t handle the ball in the final play.

Warney led the team from the Korean Basketball League (KBL) with an all-around game of 31 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, An Youngjun hit 5-of-10 from threepoint range to finish with 19 points, while Filipino import Juan Gomez de Liano just saw action in the opening half for four points and an assist.

Saso clinic fuels junior golf aspirations

Yuka Saso (center) shares a light moment with JPGT campaigners in a snapshot that captures the blend of camaraderie and the serious pursuit of golfing excellence as the 2021 US Women’s Open champion imparts her knowledge to the aspiring talents at The Country Club Wednesday.

YUKA Saso, who conducted a one-day clinic for the top Junior Philippine Golf Tour campaigners at The Country Club Wednesday, recognizes the wealth of golf talent in the country and lauded the JPGT program for boosting junior golf.

The 2021 US Women’s Open champion, who emerged from the junior ranks, expressed her belief in the effectiveness of the program put up by long-time golf patron ICTSI, which added the junior circuit to its extensive golf portfolio this year.

Having observed the tournaments and initiatives supporting junior golfers, she emphasized the significance of ICTSI’s role in providing valuable experience through a series of competitions.

“It’s great,” said Saso of the JPGT program.

“I believe there’s so much talent here in the Philippines. With ICTSI supporting our junior golfers and helping them gain experience

through a series of tournaments, I think, it’s a great way to train junior golfers.”

The JPGT, a season-long circuit held at various championship courses, culminated in the National Finals at the TCC last October. It featured a drive-chip-putt format and 18-hole tournament play where eight players shared top honors across four age categories for both boys and girls.

“I believe the program works because I played a lot of events as a junior (golfer). I’ve been watching the JPGT and have seen what they’ve been doing, giving the kids the best experience. I think it’s a great opportunity playing in the JPGT,” said the Tokyo Olympics veteran.

Saso highlighted the importance of enjoying the game and accumulating experiences. Following a clinic that included a three-hole demonstration, she exhorted the young participants to practice diligently and find joy in the process.

SPORTS

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2023

Nadal back for last hurrah S

IMs Quizon, Garcia stay ahead after 2 chess rounds

The 37-year-old returns to the courts in Brisbane this week, almost a year since he last played professionally before an injury curse that has long plagued him returned with a vengeance.

It has been a recurring theme of a record-breaking career which has brought 22 Grand Slam titles and global respect, a painful by-product of his all-action, brutal-hitting style that has led to struggles with serious knee, wrist and foot problems.

His most recent setback, at the 2023 Australian Open, resulted in two rounds of hip surgery and fears that he would never grace the courts again.

But Nadal didn’t want it to end like that, and he has battled back for what he admits is likely his last season, to say goodbye to the fans, “enjoy myself again”, but also be competitive.

“I don’t know at what level (I can play at), I don’t know what to expect, I have no idea, but I don’t care right now,” Nadal said this month, looking ahead to 2024.

“I’m just happy to be back and with great excitement to make the effort that is necessary to have fun, and I believe that I will be competitive.”

His coach Carlos Moya gave an insight into how hard it had been to get to this point, admitting there were times when he thought Nadal’s career was over.

INTERNATIONAL Masters Daniel Quizon and Jan Emmanuel Garcia hurdled their respective foes on Thursday to remain unscathed and atop the leaderboard after two rounds of the Philippine National Chess Championship at the Marikina Community Convention Center.

Quizon, a Grandmaster candidate from Dasmarinas, slew GM Joey Antonio while Garcia, an Olympiad veteran, smashed Vince Angelo Medina to claim their second win in a row that kept them firmly perched on top in this 14-player, 13-round event presented by Marikina Mayor Marcy Teodoro and Congressman Maan Teodoro.

Both Quizon and Garcia were battling Samson Chiu Chin Lim and Jerish John Velarde, respectively, in the third round at press time and eyeing a third straight win that would keep them at their lofty perch.

Stealing some of the thunder from the big guns was 14-year-old wunderkind Christian Gian Karlo Arca, who downed battle-scarred IM Barlo Nadera to seize a share of third spot with four others with 1.5 points apiece.

It included Woman GM Janelle Mae Frayna, who shocked GM Darwin Laylo in Wednesday’s opening round.

Arca, who just came from a sensational title conquest of the blitz event of the World Youth Championship in Italy last month, has been touted as the next big thing in Philippine chess and should be tested against Frayna herself as the two were tackling in the third round.

YDNEY—More than two decades after bursting on the scene, the sun is setting on Rafael Nadal’s storied career with the Spanish gladiator hoping his creaking body can hold up long enough to see out the season.

Spain’s Rafael Nadal attends a training session ahead of the Brisbane International tennis tournament in Brisbane.

“When you go through a process like this operation ... at the end of the day, going under the knife is really a last resort to try and make a comeback and retire on court,” Moya told the ATP Tour website last week.

“Aware of those risks, he gave it a go because it was the only option for him if he wanted to come back.

“It has not been a bed of roses, far from it. It’s been a winding, tortuous road, with many curves.”

The fact that Nadal is still driven to hit arriving just days after his 19th birthballs is indicative of a player who, while day in 2005, his last in 2022 making quiet and modest off court, has been re- him the event’s oldest champion. lentless in his pursuit of tennis glory.

On the famous crushed brick of Roland Garros, he has lost just three times in 115 matches.

Natural competitor He is a four-time champion at the US That drive, and all the on-court idiosyncrasies he is famous for, has gar- Open, won Wimbledon in 2008 and 2010, nered 92 titles since turning profession- and is a two-time winner at the Australian Open -- with 13 years spanning his al in 2001, including 22 Slams.

He dominated the French Open, first triumph at Melbourne Park in 2009 where he won 14 of his majors, his first and his second in 2022. AFP

PH golf: Back into the swing of things

Daniella Uy

New year, new perspectives THERE are some reports claiming that one of the country’s football icons is finally hanging his cleats for good. Heard also that he is now focusing his sights on helping promising, young and future members of the Philippine Azkals in another capacity, but more on the fulltime side if given the opportunity and the confidence of the new leadership of the Philippine Football Federation.

The Designated Kit Man also came up with some news from sources pointing to a new direction for this soon to be former Azkal. When directly asked, this football great neither confirmed nor denied the rumors. Instead, he parried the questions and pointed to two persons, who can shed more light on what he might eventually do in the coming weeks. Also heard that he asked the

IN CONTEMPLATION of what could have been in the absence of the pandemic, local golf has not only weathered the storm but has also flourished, evolving into a dynamic multi-circuit with the addition of the Philippine Golf Tour Asia.

But the three section-tour, comprising the PGT, the Ladies PGT and the foreign-laced PGTA, faced an abrupt halt during the global health crisis. However, the post-pandemic era witnessed a remarkable resurgence, marked by 10 flourishing tournaments, both in the PGT and LPGT, held across the country’s various championship courses.

The 2023 season’s climax saw a strategic shift from stroke play competitions to the thrilling match play format, echoing the success of the previous year and providing a fitting conclusion to an intense and fiercely competitive season.

A diverse array of winners, with eight different victors in the PGT and seven in the LPGT, showcased the harmonious blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talents. Even top amateurs left an indelible mark on the competitive landscape of the LPGT. The season also saw a pro-active focus on junior-level

blessing of another football icon and a great father figure to him regarding his plans.

Which is not actually surprising because he had done his dues, he doesn’t need to prove anything anymore and his legacy to the national team is already secured many times over. Personally, his move, if it pushes through, will do more good and will definitely help Philippine football in the long run.

Whatever he might eventually pursue in the coming days or whether the claims are indeed true, I just wish this friend all the best of luck in the world on his (forthcoming) adventure. If it pans out, it will greatly help and inspire the next wave of future members of the men’s national football team.

Speaking of a new wave of upcoming players, fans will definitely be given a glimpse of the country’s chess future in the ongoing 2023/2024 Philippine National Open Chess Championships at the Marikina Community Convention Center. The tournament, more popularly known as “The Battle of Grandmasters,” started last Wednesday and will run until Jan. 7. It features the country’s top chess players such as GM Joey Antonio, GM John Paul Gomez, GM Darwin Laylo and WGM Janelle Mae Frayna.

Youngsters such as IM Paulo Bersamina and IM Daniel Quizon are also in the mix to contend for top honors,

development as the organizing Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. introduced innovative programs through the Junior PGT. A brainchild of Razon, this year-long initiative featured a unique drive, chip and putt competition alongside the regular 18-hole stroke play tournament, thus giving the youngsters exposure to the other formats aimed at further enhancing both their long and short games.

In fact, Mindanao held its own qualifier to accommodate the influx of aspiring young golfers from the talent-rich region.

In the realm of the seasoned pros, Jhonnel Ababa and Daniella Uy claimed their maiden Order of Merit titles, embodying the enduring values of hard work, discipline and a positive mindset.

Ababa, a multi-titled campaigner, secured his first OOM trophy after a stellar campaign, spiked by a gripping victory at the Philippine Masters-Villamor and a commanding performance in the season-ending Mimosa Plus Championship.

With winnings of P1,499,825, the former national team standout solidified his position atop the rankings, surpassing former OOM winners Tony Lascuna and Clyde Mondilla.

and of course, those precious norms that they need for them to join the country’s elite GM circle. Not to be discounted too are WIM Marie Antoinette San Diego; IMs Jan Emmanuel Garcia and Barlo Nadera; FIDE Masters Mark Jay Bacojo and Christian Gian Carlo Arca, also the 2023 World Youth Chess Championship Blitz winner; NMs Vince Angelo Medina and John Jerish Velarde; and Sam Chiu Chin Lim. Aside from the usual cash prize, there are several other reasons to motivate the GMs, IMs, FIDE Masters and qualifiers to give their all.

The champion will earn the right to represent the country in the 2024 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in late February in Bangkok, Thailand.

The top three finishers will also form the core of the national team that will compete in the 2024 Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary from Sept. 1024, 2024. Incidentally, the 45th Chess Olympiad will also mark the 100th year anniversary of the founding of the Federation Internationale des Echecs or FIDE, the world chess governing body.

Right off the bat, WGM Frayna shocked top seed GM Laylo in the opening round. The country’s first and only woman grandmaster took the full point in 47 moves of Queen’s Gambit Declined. Frayna went on the offensive to force Laylo to resign. Also registering opening round wins include IM Quizon, FM Bacojo and IM Garcia.

The rest of the matches ended in draws.

The event is organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippine under the leadership of Cong. Butch Pichay and GM Jayson Gonzales with support coming from the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, the Eugene Torre Chess Foundation, Marikina Rep. Maan Teodoro, Marikina Mayor Marcy Teodoro and many more.

On a personal note, I would like to thank our big boss, Rollie Estabillo, Managing Editor Joyce Panares, my Sports Editor Riera Mallari and Randy Caluag for the support, patience and faith as The Designated Kit Man marked its second year this last week of December. Here’s hoping for more years with Manila Standard and looking forward to 2024 without the baggage literally or imagined, the toxicity and all the things that keep us stuck, unmoving and not giving a damn.

Wishing also my favorite team, the Philippine Azkals, to have a better 2024 and hoping that they can assemble a stronger squad against Iraq when the qualifiers resume in March. A pair of strikers will definitely help the team be more competitive and dangerous.

Happy New Year!

Stay safe. Stay happy peeps!

For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_ cabatbat@yahoo.com or follow his account at Twitter: @erelcabatbat

Adiwang settles down in Bali camp for 2024 push LITO “Thunder Kid” Adiwang is now looking to settle down in one place as he intends to represent Soma Fight Club moving forward.

The strawweight rising star said that he’s leaving his nomadic ways and is now just finalizing his move to Bali while he awaits his next challenger.

“I’m moving to Bali. Nakapagset na ako to join them and really represent Soma,” he said.

Adiwang has been on a gym-hopping sojourn of sorts after leaving Team Lakay.

He first joined Hiit Studio for his comeback match, needing just 23 seconds to dismantle Adrian “Papua Badboy” Mattheis at ONE Friday Fights 34 back in September.

Adiwang then joined Soma Fight Club and scored a redemption win over Jeremy “The Jaguar” Miado via unanimous decision at ONE Fight Night 16: Haggerty vs. Andrade last November.

Uncanny as it was, Thunder Kid said that this broadened his arsenal as he got exposed to a phalanx of training partners and coaches.

Lito Adiwang

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SHOWBIZ

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2023

‘GomBurZa’ is 49th MMFF’s most decorated film

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

WHAT people have been calling each and everyone who helped him the biggest historical film of the helm GomBurZa into the thoughtnew decade garnered multiple provoking and emotionally stirring accolades at the 49th Metro film that gave Filipinos a deeper Manila Film Festival Gabi ng understanding of how the nation Parangal. was formed through the struggles GomBurZa, the epic film about and martyrdom of Fathers Mariano Philippine history’s three martyred Gomes, Jose Burgos, and Jacinto priests, bagged the major awards Zamora. for Best Actor, Best Director, 2nd Dante Rivero and Enchong Best Picture, Best Cinematography, Dee were also nominated for Best Best Production Design, Best Supporting Actor for their respective Sound Design, and received the portrayal of Fr. Gomes and Fr. special Gatpuno Antonio Villegas Zamora.

Cultural Award – a testament to The titular performances of how this cinematic masterpiece has the film’s three leads, combined earned the nod of film critics and with Direk Pepe’s mastery in the viewing public. visual storytelling, GomBurZa has A teary-eyed Cedrick Juan, who elicited impressive feedback among gave a moving portrayal of Fr. Jose moviegoers for its poignant portrayal Epic film ‘GomBurZa’ takes home seven awards at MMFF’s Gabi ng Parangal Burgos, received his Best Actor of history, nationalism, and the award as he expressed his gratitude indomitable spirit of ‘Los Filipinos.’ to the people who believed in him After its win, more cinemas are Internationally acclaimed director Pepe and to the theater circuit that helped mold him as an Diokno accepted the Best Director award as he showing GomBurZa throughout the duration of the actor. acknowledged the invaluable support given by Metro Manila Film Festival, which runs until Jan. 7.

Anne Curtis achieves new milestones in life and career Very Wang

Anne is immortalized as a wax figure at Madame Tussauds in Hong Kong

Anne embarks on a new journey as the new face of Smart’s new Unli 5G campaign

I

Pageant Concept Eton Concepcion

Philippines remains a pageant powerhouse

A recap of triumphs in major pageants in 2023

Nickie Wang

N ANNE Curtis’s world, balancing the roles of motherhood, a thriving career, and a dynamic social life may seem like a daily uphill battle.

But the 38-year-old A-Lister stands out as an embodiment of grace and resilience, channeling unstoppable energy as she accomplishes milestone after milestone.

‘Gomburza’ star Cedrick Juan bags the Best Actor award

‘It’s Showtime’ host and actress Anne Curtis

Recently named as the first Philippine celebrity to reach 20 million followers on Instagram, Anne solidifies her status as one of the world’s most influential icons. This achievement coincided with the culmination of her Luvanne US concert the latest hit series or shows in 4K or UltraHD seamlessly, tour earlier this month, marking yet another noteworthy and play high-bandwidth games without lag, among other milestone in her career. online activities. Users may avail of this groundbreaking offer Beyond showcasing her widespread popularity, this by simply logging in on the Smart App, dialing *123# on accomplishment underscores her profound connection with their phone, or topping up at accredited retailers, convenience devoted fans who closely follow stores, and Smart booths at airports her journey, offering unwavering nationwide. support and celebration of her With Smart Unli 5G + Non-Stop success.

Data, Anne has found the perfect “20 million of you here my dearest ally to navigate her multifaceted life.

IG fam! What a way to end this LA As she enjoys the fastest speeds and tour. Big kisses to all of you!!!,” widest coverage, Anne proves that Anne said in a social media post. with the right technology, there are The news couldn’t have come at no limits to what you can achieve. a better time, as she is now the face Anne’s journey takes an iconic of Smart’s new Unli 5G offer, turn as she becomes the next Filipino which now includes Non-Stop Data personality to be immortalized in to give subscribers seamless online Madame Tussauds Hong Kong. connectivity.

Her wax figure will be positioned Available for as low as P99 valid alongside Hollywood stars, a for 1 day, Unli 5G + Non-Stop testament to her global influence Data enables Smart subscribers and impact. to be unstoppable like Anne and In a recent interview with accomplish more online even if they her home network ABS-CBN, move from a 5G-covered area to a Anne (right) celebrates Christmas with her husband, Anne expressed her disbelief non-5G site for a truly uninterrupted and excitement, saying, “I’m so Erwan, and daughter, Dahlia mobile experience. For even more honored, thrilled, excited. This is value, subscribers may also Unli 5G + Non-Stop Data for 3 amazing. I still can’t believe I’m gonna have my very own days for only P149; for 7 days for only P299, and for 30 days wax figure. It’s going to be an iconic Anne Curtis pose.” for only P999.

Of course, Anne doesn’t need much practice for this, judging “Staying online puts you in the position to do more and be by her first Paris Fashion Week experience last October, when unstoppable for the things you are passionate about. In my she turned heads with her stunning looks while attending the case, it empowers me to reach out to my beloved fans and runway shows of global fashion houses Loewe, Hermès, and share the moments, projects, and advocacies that are close to AZ Factory. my heart – anytime and anywhere,” shares Anne.

All these while she continues to endear everyone with Powered by the Philippines’ best mobile network as her bubbly and down-to-earth personality as one of the recognized by Ookla, Smart users may rely on Unli 5G + original hosts of the afternoon variety show, It’s Showtime, Non-Stop Data to upload or download heavy files at work or which recently celebrated its 14th anniversary – another school, create and share content online in real-time, stream milestone.

Michelle Dee puts the Philippines back on track at the Miss Universe stage

A HAPPY and prosperous New Year to all. Looking back, the Philippines remained a powerhouse country in global beauty competitions, earning good results in major international pageants the past year.

The year’s top story belongs to Michelle Dee’s Top 10 placement in the 72nd Miss Universe, held in El Salvador in November, which marked the country’s return as a semi-finalist in the world’s most popular pageant.

Dee rocked the Miss Universe finals with show-stopping performance in swimsuit and evening gown competitions but failed to advance in the Top 5. Nevertheless, Dee made history as the candidate with multiple special awards at Miss Universe, to wit, Voice for Change Gold Award (for her advocacy on autism awareness), Fan Vote, Best National Costume, and Spirit of Carnival (given by pageant sponsor Carnival Cruise).

The other big story was Pauline Amelinckx, who almost walked away with the Miss Supranational 2023 crown, placing first runner-up to Andrea Aguilera of Ecuador, held in Malopolska, Poland in July. It was the country’s highest placement since Mutya Datul won the crown in 2013. Amelinckx won the Supra Chat Challenge award.

Bb. Pilipinas Nicole Borromeo also made the country proud finishing a respectable 3rd runner-up in Miss International 2023, held in Tokyo, Japan in October. It was the first placement for the country, whichndhad collected one 1st runner-up, two 2 runners-up, and th one 4 runner-up, since 1960. Andrea th Rubio of Venezuela won a record 9 Miss International title.

The first quarter of the year saw Maria Luisa Varela winning the Miss Planet International 2023 crown, held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia in January.

Miss Universe Philippines 2022 finalist Annabelle McDonnell nearly won the inaugural Miss Charm 2023, held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam in February, finishing first runner-up to Luma Russo of Brazil. Then, Ashley Subijano Montenegro made it to the Top 21 of Miss Eco International 2023, won by Nguyen Thanh Ha of Vietnam, held in Cairo, Egypt in March.

Mutya ng Pilipinas beauty S h a n n o n Robinson won Miss Environment International 2023 in Mumbai, India on June 15.

In November, Bb. Pilipinas Anna Lakrini did well ending up 2nd runnerup in Miss Globe 2023, held in Tirana, Albania. Aanavi Kher of Malaysia won the crown.

Pauline Amelinckx places first runner-up at the Miss Supranational 2023

Mutya ng Pilipinas Tourism International 2022 Jeanette Reyes took home the Miss Tourism Metropolitan International 2023/24 in Miss Tourism International 2023/24, held in Sabah, Malaysia, won by Tia Li Taveepanichpan, also of Thailand. Reyes also bagged the subsidiary title of Miss Southeast Asia Tourism Ambassadress 2023/2024.

Elda Louise Aznar nearly made it back-to-back in Miss CosmoWorld 2023, finishing as 1st runner-up to USA’s Shelby Ann Howell, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Philippines’ Meiji Cruz relinquished her crown.

In December, Mutya ng Pilipinas 2022 Iona Violeta Gibbs was named in the Top 22 in Miss Intercontinental 2023, held in Sharm-El Sheikh, Egypt, won by Chatnalin Chotjirawarachat of Thailand.

Closing the year was Yllana Marie Aduana, who almost became the country’s th 5 Miss Earth, finishing second to winner Drita Ziri of Albania. Aduana took rd the title of Miss Earth Air 2023 in the 23 edition of the pageant, held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

In pageants for married women, Meranie Gadiana Rahman, a Filipina th representing Hawaii, USA, won the 46 Mrs. Universe title, held in Okada Manila, while Eimee Edralin-Cragun was crowned Elite Mrs. Universe Official 2023, a different pageant, held at Newport World Resorts, Pasay City, both in October.

For the males, Robert Douglas Walcher IV, son of former actress Patricia Javier, brought home the Mister Teen International 2023 title, held in Bangkok, Thailand in June.

James Reggie Vidal was named 2nd runner-up in Man of the World 2023, won by Jin Wook Kim of Korea, held at Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati City in June.

Misters of Filipinas RJ De Vera achieved a rare back-to-back victory in Man Hot Star International 2023, succeeding fellow countryman Jovy Bequillo, held in Chon Buri, Thailand in November.

Others were Johannes Rissler made the Top 25 in Mister Supranational 2023, won

by Iván Álvarez of Spain, held in Nowy Sacz, P o l a n d in July; Jefferson Bunney w h o finished in the Top 10 in Mister International 2023, won by Kim Thitisan Goodburn of Thailand, held in Bangkok, Thailand in September; and Ivan Ignacio named 2nd runner-up in 1st Mister Cosmopolitan 2023, won by USA’s Blake Johnston, held in Malaysia in October.

RJ De Vera secures a back-to-back win at Man Hot Star International 2023

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2023

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

LIFE Level up your self-care routine at this one-stop hub

A

FEW days away from 2024, there’s an unspoken desire for renewal and self-care for many of us—a fitting reward for not just surviving but thriving through the challenges of the year. I’m sharing a unique discovery up North, which serves as a one-stop shop for experiences to nourish the body, mind, and soul.

Whether you’re on a date with a special someone or treating yourself, the Beautéderm corporate office or headquarters in Angeles City, Pampanga, serves as the perfect getaway. Consider yourself lucky if you happen to live nearby.

At the heart of this self-care hub is BeautéHaus, an aesthetic clinic that offers premium beauty treatments enjoyed by celebrities.

Drawing in thousands from the province and neighboring regions, BeautéHaus has become a center of innovation with signature procedures like Beauté drips, Snow White Laser, Beauté Rejuve Laser with Beauté Glow Peptide, Ultimate V-Lift, and Beauté HIFU. With cutting-edge and sought-after machines like Ulthera and Vivace, the clinic stands at the forefront of global beauty trends.

What sets BeautéHaus apart is not just its offerings but the promise of a first-rate luxury experience, capturing the attention of Pampanga’s elite since its new location’s opening in 2022. Earlier this month, I personally enjoyed my experience with the guidance of an in-house skin health, clinical, and aesthetic doctor.

Dr. Ciara Alfonso Labrador, a board-certified dermatologist, customized a list of treatments for me that day based on my skin concerns and worries. She patiently answered all my questions and explained scientific concepts in detail. While having a facial, I enjoyed a much-needed and enjoyable foot massage that took my mind off the occasional pricking of impurities on my face. Both became so relaxing, that I fell asleep during the procedure.

Also within the headquarters is Beauté Beanery, a gourmet café that elevates the dining experience to a form of self-indulgence.

President and CEO Rhea Anicoche-Tan’s personal taste and heritage shine through as the café proudly presents Ilocano dishes, a tribute to her roots in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. Among the café’s specialties, the Vigan Empanada stands out as a signature menu item—a delectable combination of Vigan longganisa, egg, papaya, and cabbage.

With calming and elegant interiors in predominantly muted colors, Beauté Beanery, inaugurated in December 2022, has swiftly become a local favorite, not just for its menu but for its unique handcrafted drinks. Celebrities flock to savor the Vigan bowl, pinakbet rice, kare-kare, sun-dried tomato and puttanesca, and macadamia latte. I used to not like coffee until I had this must-try – coffee jelly drink, affogato style.

Located in the same building is AK Studios, an artistic space designed for photo shoots and video productions. The studio complements the holistic experience, providing a creative outlet for self-expression and capturing moments that celebrate individuality.

During my visit, I spotted brand ambassadors EA Guzman, Kakai Bautista, Jelai Andres, DJ Jhai Ho, and Maja Salvador doing TikTok live selling sessions in a special corner. I saw some of them conveniently having meals during their breaks inside a dining room within the well-designed space.

Completing the quartet of experiences is A-List Avenue, a luxury brands store that adds a touch of opulence to the Beautéderm headquarters. It mirrors the aspirations Anicoche-Tan once had as a young woman and was able to achieve. She has turned her dreams into reality, and this portion allows others to make their dream of owning designer brands happen as well. The store offers different payment plans to cater to consumers’ needs.

At BeautéHaus, in-house dermatologist Dr. Ciara Alfonso Labrador is a notable presence

AK Studios is an artistic space designed for photo shoots and video productions

Beautederm clients and visitors can enjoy refreshments and fine dishes at Beanery, also housed in the company’s headquarters

Beautéderm President and CEO Rhea Anicoche-Tan with brand ambassador Sam Milby at A-List Avenue

Stepping into the empty canvas of a new year, Beautéderm headquarters stands as an embodiment of self-care, a retreat that goes beyond beauty treatments and culinary delights. It is a testament to the idea that true well-being takes on a holistic approach— nurturing the face and body, savoring different flavors and satisfying cravings, expressing creativity, and indulging in a touch of luxury.

This go-to recommendation is a reminder that selfcare is a lifestyle and not just a trend. It encourages us to prioritize ourselves and our well-being from 2024 until the end.

Breaking taboos with Christmas cheer IN THE lively area of Poblacion, Makati, the Ugly Duck White Rabbit venue hosted an unusual Christmas event, putting condom brand Durex in the spotlight with its creative “12 Days of DureX-MAS” celebration.

Going beyond the festivities, the occasion aimed to break down societal taboos about intimate wellness.

The event carefully displayed a variety of Durex products to encourage open conversations about their uses and

challenge social norms. The atmosphere, already filled with celebration, reached new heights when the drag queens from RPDR PH took the stage, delivering captivating performances.

A diverse group of people from different backgrounds gathered at the venue, reflecting a noticeable change in how society approaches discussions about personal topics. The event, once marked by hesitation, became a sign of the evolving landscape of openness.

Adding to the fun were excellent performances by entertainers like Matilda, Arizona Brandy, Miss Jade So, Bernie, and Marina Summers, turning the evening into a fantastic experience.

For those who haven’t seen these talented queens, it’s highly recommended. Beyond the festivities, the event highlighted how entertainment can bring people together and promote inclusivity.

RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines drag queens join the fun at ‘12 Days of DureX-MAS’ celebration

From left: OPM icons Chad Borja, Renz Verano, Rannie Raymundo, and Richard Reynoso

Winford goes merry and bright ALL roads lead to Winford Resort & Casino Manila (WRCM) this month as the luxury hotel in San Lazaro, Manila, prepares to end the year in style and with a bang.

On the raffle front, members and guests are invited to try their luck in WHEELS FOR THE WIN for a chance to win a brand-new Toyota Veloz G 1.5 CVT or P300,000 worth of free play credits or chips in the special VIP raffle draw (3 winners each) on Dec. 30. Simply earn 10 promo points daily between December 1 and 30 for a raffle ticket.

Then, on Dec. 31, WRCM invites revelers to usher in 2024 at the New Year Countdown party featuring OPM Hitmen as they perform, live, at WRCM’s entertainment

hub Hippodrome Bar & Lounge.

Composed of Chad Borja, Renz Verano, Rannie Raymundo, and Richard Reynoso, the four will perform their smash hits like “Ikaw Lang,” “Remember Me,” “Why Can’t It Be?,” “Paminsan Minsan,” and many more. The show is free of charge, with VIP seats available for P1,250 inclusive of food and drink or by earning 150 points a day.

WRCM is located in San Lazaro Tourism & Business Park, Santa Cruz, Manila. Visit www.winfordmanila. com for more information or call the hotline at +63 (2) 8528-3600 for inquiries. You may also follow Winford Resort & Casino Manila on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates on special events and promotions.