Manila Standard - 2023 December 30 - Saturday

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China presses verbal assault, insists PH ‘creating incidents’ in waterway conducting humanitarian missions in the West Philippine Sea, but merely creating incidents in the waters that Beijing illegally claims.

CHINA continued its disinformation Wu Qian, spokesman for China’s Decampaign against the Philippines Fri- fense Department, said he did not believe day, claiming that Manila was not really Next page

By Rey E. Requejo and Vince Lopez

VOL. XXXVII • NO. 319 • 4 SECTIONS 20 PAGES • P20 • SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2023 •

Gov’t urges PUVs to beat deadline

LTFRB: Offices open until 5 p.m. Dec. 31 to make way for consolidation applicants

By Maricel V. Cruz and Rio N. Araja

HE government on Friday clarified its decision to allow jeepney operators and drivers who failed to join the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) to operate beyond the Dec. 31 consolidation deadline, saying they would only be able to ply routes not adequately served by consolidated units.

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Joel Bolano, chief of the Land Transportation Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) technical division, said unconsolidated jeepneys in routes with at least 60 percent of units that consolidated would no longer be able to renew their provisional authorities to operate.

Only those in unconsolidated routes would be given special permits to operate until the end of January 2024, he added in a press briefing Friday.

“In routes with totally no consolidation, they have until Jan. 31 to operate pending the process of assigning units

coming from other routes," he said in Filipino.

Transport officials said there would be no extension of the deadline to apply for consolidation into either a cooperative or a corporation, the first step of the modernization program.

Office of Transportation Cooperatives (OTC) chair Andy Ortega said offices of the OTC and LTFRB are open until 5 p.m. on Dec. 31, 2023 to accommodate those who would still avail of the consolidation.

“We still have three days so they can hit the deadline. I hope we can encourage them to consolidate with only three days left,” he added.

Transportation Secretary Jaime

LAST-DITCH RALLY. Members of the transport groups PISTON, Manibela,

and No To PUV Phaseout Coalition – along with their families and children (inset) -- join various militant groups on Friday as they trooped to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) offices to continue their protests against the Dec. 31 mandatory public utility vehicle franchise consolidation deadline. Manny Palmero and Danny Pata

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Health facilities on ‘Code White’ ‘til Jan. 4—DOH

Luneta a silent witness 127 years since Rizal’s death

By Honor Blanco Cabie TODAY, the Philippines marks the 127th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal, an advocate of reform but not revolution, who was shot by a firing squad

for sedition, conspiracy, and rebellion.

Center of the celebration is the 58-hectare bayside Rizal Park, where President Marcos will lay a wreath at the 12.7-meter granite monument erected from 1908 to 1913, where the hero’s re-

mains are after being transferred from the Paco Cemetery in Manila.

The area was formerly called “Luneta” – from the French word Lunette – which means a crescent-shaped fort,

By Vince Lopez and Maricel V. Cruz

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SUPPLEMENT: DR. JOSE RIZAL 127TH MARTYRDOM SPECIAL ISSUE (SECTION D)

THE Department of Health (DOH) on Friday ordered all public and private health facilities to go on "Code White" alert until Jan. 4, 2024 to prepare for accidents over the holidays.

This means hospitals and health facilities are expected to prepare more medicines and supplies in their emergency and operating rooms, especially for trauma patients.

Other needs such as x-ray plates and laboratory requirements will also be made available "without requirement for out of pocket by victims," the DOH said in a statement.

“Under orders of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the DOH and all hospitals and health facilities will be ready for all untoward incidents this Christmas and New Year season," Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said in a statement.

The DOH also reminded the public Next page

DA, agencies start executing El Niño moves

RIZALISTAS’ PRAYERS. Members of the group Kapatiran ang Litaw na Katalinuhan (KALK) or Rizalistas offer prayers before a statue of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Plaza de Armas inside Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila on Friday a day before the 127th anniversary of the martyrdom of the national hero—who the group believes personifies Jesus Christ. Inset shows a bust of Dr. Rizal at the Paco Cemetery, where he was initially buried before his remains were moved to the Rizal Monument at Luneta Park in Manila. Danny Pata and Diana Noche

Kerosene, diesel prices seen rising slightly

By Alena Mae S. Flores PUMP prices will see mixed movement next week due to the volatility in world oil prices, industry sources said heading into the weekend.

Based on the four-day trading of Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS), the benchmark used by oil importers, the price of gasoline may have no movement or go up slightly by P0.10 per liter.

Meanwhile, diesel is forecast to have a price rollback of P0.10 to P0.35 per liter, and kerosene

by P1 to P1.10 per liter.

"These are attributed to the ease of concerns about shipping disruptions along the Red Sea and the Russian oil output expected to hold steady in 2024. Russia diverted its oil exports from Europe to India and China," Rodela Romero, Department Next page

JAN. 2 NO HOLIDAY, PALACE CONFIRMS

TECH AND GADGETS YEAREND SPECIAL

NEWS / A2

SEE SECTION C

By Othel V. Campos, Macon Ramos-Araneta, and Maricel V. Cruz THE Department of Agriculture (DA), along with other agencies and the Interagency Task Force on El Niño, has started implementing measures to contain the impact of the impending drought on food production and agricultural stakeholders.

Among the measures carried out by the DA include the repair of and rehabilitation of irrigation canals. Over 740 kilometers of the targeted 843 kilometers have been fixed or built as of November, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said in a statement.

Laurel said 40 units of small-scale irrigation systems have been revamped, covering 1,477.5 hectares to improve water distribution efficiency.

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NEWS

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Palace confirms Jan. 2 not a holiday

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“Wala po (There’s none),” Presidential Communications Cheloy Garafil said in response to multiple queries from Malacañang reporters if the day after New Year’s Day is a holiday – after the same day this year was declared a holiday under Proclamation No. 90.

Mr. Marcos earlier declared Dec. 26, the day after Christmas, a special nonworking day nationwide to encourage domestic tourism and to give families more time to spend together.

The administration adopted "holiday economics" in 2022 through Proclamation No. 90, which adjusted national holidays because "a longer weekend will help encourage domestic travel and increase tourism expenditures in the country."

Last October, Malacañang released the list of regular holidays and special nonworking days for 2024.

President Marcos signed Proclamation 368, which contains the list of holidays for next year.

Under the proclamation, the following dates are declared regular holidays and special non-working days: Regular holidays: Jan. 1 (Monday) – New Year’s Day March 28 – Maundy Thursday March 29 – Good Friday April 9 (Tuesday) – Araw ng Kagitingan May 1 (Wednesday) – Labor Day June 12 (Wednesday) – Independence Day Aug. 26 (last Monday of August) – National Heroes Day Nov. 30 (Saturday) – Bonifacio Day Dec. 25 (Wednesday) – Christmas Day Dec. 30 (Monday) – Rizal Day Special (non-working) days: Aug. 21 (Wednesday) – Ninoy Aquino

Gov‘t...

The youth group slammed the LTFRB circular allowing non-consolidated jeeps to operate until Jan. 31, 2024, on routes where there are only 60 percent or fewer consolidated jeeps.

The unconsolidated jeepneys will be allowed to operate until January 2024 but will still have their provisional authority or franchise revoked after Dec. 31, 2023.

They will no longer be permitted to reapply or join cooperatives in the future.

The youth group said this is a tacit admission of the imminent transport crisis should the phaseout push through. The group said this runs contrary to the LTFRB claim that there will be no transport crisis after the franchise consolidation deadline.

The Gabriela Women's Party also threw its support behind the nearly 200,000 jeepney drivers and operators as

they face the looming Dec. 31 franchise consolidation deadline, which is part of the government’s PUVMP. "The Dec. 31 deadline for the mandatory franchise consolidation forces over 60,000 jeepney operators to give up their franchises and join just a few transport cooperatives or companies," said Gabriela’s nominee in Congress, Rep. Arlene Brosas.

"With significantly fewer PUVs on the roads by January 2024, millions of Filipino commuters will face a severe transport crisis, affecting important parts of the economy,” she said.

Brosas said the Dec. 31 deadline for franchise consolidation impedes the constitutionally protected freedom of association of jeepney drivers and operators.

"Drivers and operators are being

pressured to join transport cooperatives or companies, disbanding their current jeepney associations and putting their livelihoods at risk," Brosas said.

Gabriela appealed to President Marcos to heed the call of the thousands jeepney drivers and operators and set aside, if not scrap the franchise consolidation deadline to avert a massive transport crisis.

Some drivers on Friday told ABSCBN they might skimp on the New Year feast to save money as they feared losing their livelihood due to the looming phaseout of their traditional jeepneys in 2024.

Alkris Sagado, a jeepney driver in Pasig for the last 10 years, said he did not know what would happen to his family if the government barred him from plying his route.

sary enforcement measures in accordance with law, which were totally justified and legitimate,” he said, ignoring a UN tribunal’s decision that China’s extensive claims to the South China Sea have no legal basis.

On the reported laser-pointing, Wu said: “This is [an] entirely groundless accusation” and China has no intention to use such devices.

“China is always committed to resolving differences through dialogue and consultation and making joint efforts to maintain maritime stability,” he said.

But Wu also warned that China will not turn a blind eye towards the Philippines’ actions.

Meanwhile, a maritime law expert urged President Marcos to file "an entitlement to a continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles in the West Philippines Sea (WPS)" before a United Nations commission amid China's aggression in claiming parts of the area.

"It is not ‘a claim for territorial ownership’ but a ‘submission to establish entitlement to a continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles’ in the WPS,” said the director of the University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea, Jay Batongbacal.

Batongbacal said the submission can be filed before the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea’s Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (UN-CLCS).

He said he made the same recommendation to the past administrations under Presidents Benigno Aquino III and Rodrigo Duterte but no action was taken.

But the Philippines had filed a similar submission before the commission in the case of Benham Rise.

In April 2012, the UN commission granted the Benham Rise to the Philippines as an extension of the country’s continental shelf, some 350 nautical miles from the nation’s shore.

On Thursday, the National Security Council (NSC) welcomed the latest OCTA survey which showed that the majority of adult Filipinos agree with the Marcos administration’s approach in handling the territorial dispute with China in the WPS. The survey showed a 15 percent increase in public support for the administration on the issue.

"We appreciate the support of the Filipino people and the public can be assured that the NSC will always advance the na-

tional interest and protect our sovereignty and territorial integrity at all times," National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said in a statement.

The survey results showed that the Filipinos consider the WPS as a major concern and that “the lives and livelihood of our people, especially the fishers who depend on the seas, are primordial concerns that cannot be taken for granted.”

The OCTA survey also revealed that most Filipinos feel the country’s foreign and security policies, including strengthening its ties with partners, allies and friends, are on the right track.

Año, who chairs the NSC, also said the Philippines shall pursue its national interest with greater resolve in the coming year.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar also expressed satisfaction over the survey finding.

"We are moving towards the right direction, one that promotes the interest of our people and strengthens international laws and conventions that contribute to regional peace and stability. With the support of our people, (we) will never be distracted from this course," he said.

drying technology, which has proven successful for over 1.2 million farmers across 9,210 hectares as a water-saving farming technique. This reduces water usage while maintaining yields.

About 17,660 hectares of rice fields are targeted for the quick-turnaround strategy. In this approach, farmers immediately replant rice after harvest, capitalizing on the remaining soil moisture before the dry spell intensifies.

The Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. (PCIC) has also allocated P1.8 billion to insure 916,759 farmers and fishermen.

PCIC has earmarked P500 million for credit support under the Survival and Recovery Loan Program for potential calamity victims, including those affected by El Niño.

PCIC has covered 1.27 million farmers between June and November 2023, constituting roughly 76 percent of the target group.

“We are leaving no stones unturned in our effort to ease the impact of El Nino on our farmers and fishermen as well as consumers by ensuring food production is sufficient and supply is secure during the expected dry spell that could affect a majority of provinces and millions who depend on agriculture and fisheries,” said Laurel.

Health... to avoid the use of firecrackers and driving after drinking alcohol.

Meanwhile, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said pyrotechnic devices that are not firecrackers such as sparklers can still be used at home, as they are not covered by the ban on firecracker use in homes.

Pyrotechnics that were allowed include sparklers, luces, fountains, and Roman candles—even though the DOH identified luces as among the top five causes of fireworks-related injuries this year.

Firecrackers that explode should only be used in community fireworks displays as stated in Executive Order No. 28, which was implemented in 2017 under former President Rodrigo Duterte.

“Since 2017, over 1,210 LGUs (local government units) have issued ordinances to implement this,” said DILG Undersecretary Lord Villanueva.

Penalties will depend on the LGU’s specific ordinance.

“Under an ordinance, a city has the power to impose a criminal penalty and usually this is a few months imprisonment or a fine,” Villanueva said.

LGUs may also opt to implement a

complete ban on the use of fireworks.

“That’s within the power of the local government if they want to be strict,” Villanueva added.

Also on Friday, a congressional leader urged the DOH and LGUs to ramp up their efforts to make sure there are no firecracker-related casualties ahead of the New Year’s Eve celebrations.

“We call on the DOH and our LGUs to further intensify preparations to ensure that our New Year celebration is safe," Anakalusugan Party-list Rep. Ray T. Reyes said.

Reyes, vice chair of the House committee on health, added that the police and local executives should strictly implement Republic Act 7183 and Executive Order 28, s. 2017 to regulate and control the use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.

Reyes also urged Filipinos to use alternative ways to make noise instead of firecrackers in welcoming 2024.

The DOH on Friday warned the public against hearing loss due to fireworks as it reported the first case of hearing impairment.

Latest data from the DOH’s fireworks-related injuries report showed that the case is a 23-year-old woman from Central Luzon who lost her hearing after passive exposure to "kwitis" or skyrocket.

35 when shot to death as the Philippine sunrise crept over the then Bagumbayan field.

This is the spot where Rizal was executed at 7:03 in the morning, after his pulse rate was checked by Dr. Felipe Ruiz Castillo, who declared it was normal.

Two hours earlier, Rizal married the misty-eyed Hong Kong-born Josephine Bracken, whose parents were Irish, who was gifted by Rizal with the classic Thomas á Kempis book “Imitations of Christ” in which he inscribed, “To my dear and

unhappy wife, Josephine, December 30th, 1896, Jose Rizal.”

They embraced for the last time before he was walked to Bagumbayan.

His poem “Mi Ultimo Adios” in original Spanish, is inscribed there, with English translation by Encarnacion Alzona and Isidro Escare Abeto, and Tagalog version by Andres Bonifacio titled “Pahimakas ni Dr. Jose Rizal."

Rizal's martyrdom fueled the revolution led, historians say, by the young general Emilio Aguinaldo and Bonifacio.

The group Katipunan, founded by Bonifacio, was unprepared militarily to take on Spain when it began to revolt in response to the Spanish execution of key leaders and priests.

Katipunan split into factions, one of which was led by Aguinaldo who, some historians say, ultimately executed Bonifacio and took over the revolution.

On Dec. 20, 1898, then-President Aguinaldo issued a decree declaring Dec 30 a day of national mourning for Rizal and other patriots, who died during the 377-

RESIDENT Marcos has not issued a proclamation declaring Jan. 2, 2024, a Tuesday, as a special nonworking day, the Presidential Communications Office said Friday.

From A1

Bautista on Friday again said there would be no extension of the consolidation deadline.

Despite the strict deadline, however, the LTFRB gave a month’s leeway to individual operators to operate in routes without a consolidated transport service entity.

Meanwhile, leftist groups aired their support for drivers and operators who oppose the PUVMP and who have filed a petition before the Supreme Court to challenge its constitutionality.

On Friday, the youth group Anakbayan joined drivers and operators in their protest against the PUVMP at the Welcome Rotonda in Quezon City.

China...

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the Philippines’ resupply missions were real because the “supply vessels carried many journalists and propagated disinformation.”

“In my view, this is not humanitarian supply at all, it is to deliberately create an incident, play victim and make a show in the name of humanitarian supply,” Wu said.

The Chinese military official’s allegation came after the Philippines had for multiple times protested China’s actions against Philippine vessels conducting humanitarian missions in the West Philippine Sea, including water cannon attacks and laser-pointing.

Despite the incidents being captured on camera and witnessed by journalists, Wu said Manila’s protests against Beijing were just “groundless accusation” and “false hype.”

He also falsely claimed that the Philippines intruded into Chinese waters and “provocatively rammed” a larger Chinese vessel, and “caused a scratch.”

“Such behavior is very dangerous and extremely unprofessional,” Wu said.

“The China Coast Guard took neces-

DA,...

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The Bureau of Soil and Water Management (BSWM) has also requested P112 million for cloudseeding operations in 2024 to augment water for crops during low rainfall periods.

Cloud seeding sorties will be a joint effort with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Department of National Defense (DND). Both are expected to provide crucial information and aircraft for seeding operations, the bureau noted.

The DA will also introduce alternative livelihoods to farmers, animal raisers and fisherfolk.

Under the Philippine Native Animal Development Program, the government plans to distribute over 56,000 animals to 297 farmer groups and 470 individual farmers.

Meanwhile, fishermen in the Bicol, Central Visayas, and Zamboanga Peninsula regions will receive aid in the form of alternative livelihoods and climate-adaptive technologies.

The DA also encourages rice farmers to adopt alternative wetting and

Luneta...

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the site of “La Calzada,” the social hub of Manila's elite, and was also used by the Spaniards as an execution ground for rebels and activist Rizal.

On Sept 28, 1901, the United States Philippine Commission approved Act 243, which would erect a monument in Luneta to commemorate Rizal, the Filipino patriot, writer and poet who was only

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Day Nov. 1 (Friday) – All Saints’ Day Dec. 8 (Sunday) – Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary Dec. 31 (Tuesday) – Last Day of the Year Additional special (non-working) days: Feb. 10 (Saturday) – Chinese New Year March 30 – Black Saturday Nov. 2 (Saturday) – All Souls’ Day Dec. 24 (Tuesday) – Christmas Eve According to Proclamation 368, Feb. 10, 2024 may be declared as a special (non-working) day without detriment to public interest as Chinese New Year is one of the “most revered and festive events” celebrated not only in China but also in the Philippines.

More rebels ready to leave NPA, says AFP THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday said more New People's Army (NPA) rebels are expected to abandon the dying insurgency movement following their crushing defeat in Bukidnon province on Christmas Day when nine of them were killed by government troops.

"The NPA is on the run. They are only capable of harassing defenseless individuals. Most of them already want to leave the dying movement and we are [very] much willing to accept and assist them," AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said.

Unceasing military pressure and lack of support from the masses have greatly contributed to the weakened condition of the NPA and its allies, according to the military.

Difficult conditions on the ground were also among the reasons that rebels cite when they surrender.

In late November, the 1st Special Forces Battalion in Mampayag, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon facilitated the surrender of five NPA rebels.

AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a separate message that almost 700 surrenderers have been recorded from January to November.

He said the AFP’s internal security operation campaign, which involves coordination with the Philippine National Police, also led to the neutralization of high-ranking rebel leaders and weakened guerilla fronts, now at 13 as of last count.

Gibo reminds Pinoys of Rizal’s courage, sacrifice DEPARTMENT of National Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. on Friday paid tribute to Dr. Jose Rizal ahead of today’s celebration of the national hero’s 127th death anniversary.

Teodoro remembered Dr. Rizal “as a visionary and a true patriot who fought for the independence of the country against the Spanish during the colonial period.”

"Dr. Jose Rizal was a visionary and patriot who chose to fight for our nation's freedom through words and ideals. His courage and sacrifice inspired others to join the fight for our independence," he said.

On Rizal Day, the Defense chief also reminded Filipinos of the duty and responsibility for the sovereignty and sovereign rights of every individual in the Philippines.

"Today, may every Filipino be reminded of our shared duty and responsibility to uphold our sovereignty and sovereign rights as citizens of this nation," Teodoro said.

"Let us embody our national hero's unwavering love for the Philippines and remain united in protecting our hard-earned peace and independence," he added.

The secretary pointed out that love for the country “in hearts and minds will uphold the honor and courage of every person.”

"May the flame of love for the country remain in our hearts and minds and uphold the honor and courage of the Filipino." the Defense chief said.

Vince Lopez

Kerosene...

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of Energy (DOE) director for the Oil Industry Management Bureau, said.

Romero said final adjustments will be realized at the end of Friday’s trading.

On Dec. 26, local oil companies hiked prices of gasoline, diesel, and kerosene by P 1.60 per liter, P 1.70 per liter, and P1.54 to P1.55 per liter, respectively.

The DOE said these adjustments resulted in a year-to-date net price increase of P12.60 per liter for gasoline, P5.61 per liter for diesel, and P1.24 per liter for kerosene. year Spanish rule that began in 1521.

Over 125 years later, President Marcos, in his speech during the commemorative program, is expected to urge 114 million Filipinos to continue to embody Rizal’s virtues of excellence, patriotism, and perseverance when he leads the commemoration at Rizal Park.

The President will offer a wreath at the Rizal Monument joined by National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairman Emmanuel Franco Calairo and AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner, Jr.

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2023 advertise@manilastandard.net

A Legacy of Engineering Excellence: MIESCOR Celebrates Five Decades of Exceptional Service

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HE current business landscape in the Philippines has become more competitive over the years, compelling businesses to adopt an even more forwardlooking approach to attain long-term stability and sustainability.

In achieving stability and longevity, companies recognize that beyond establishing and implementing good business strategies, they should also build a strong and skilled workforce to ensure effective execution and value creation for customers and stakeholders.

Meralco Industrial Engineering Services Corporation (MIESCOR) has triumphantly pieced together the elements needed to succeed in the engineering and construction industry.

The wholly owned subsidiary of Meralco has consistently demonstrated service excellence and engineering expertise as it celebrates its 50th year with Miescor Group’s 10,000-strong workforce.

From being Meralco’s Plant and Engineering Division, MIESCOR was incorporated in 1973 and was later spun off as the engineering and construction arm of Meralco. Since then, MIESCOR has become a top-notch company offering services on engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC), testing and commissioning, operation and maintenance (O&M), and logistics and facilities management to the power, water, telecommunications, transport, manpower, and infrastructure sectors.

“It is a great honor to lead MIESCOR in its 50th year in the industry. As we commemorate the company’s half a century’s legacy, we remain steadfast to our commitment and dedication to providing exemplary service to our customers and stakeholders. We are ready to face and turn the challenges that await us into opportunities of growth that will pave the way for new milestones for the company,” Meralco Vice President and MIESCOR President and Chief Executive Officer Richard O. Ochava said.

MIESCOR’S CORE BUSINESS MIESCOR’s core business comprises units that specialize in Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC), Distribution Utility Services (DUS), Utility Attachment Management (UAM), Telecommunications Services (Telecoms), and Trading.

The EPC business unit ensures timely and safe completion of high-quality projects. It handles designing and supplying equipment and materials, and building facilities and infrastructure related to power, utilities, and transportation.

Among its recent projects were the recently energized 230kV and 500KV transmission lines in Zambales and the 500kV transmission line in Batangas, which help bring reliable power supply to the communities in the area.

Meanwhile, through its DUS business unit, MIESCOR provides engineering design and technical services, facilities inspection and maintenance, meter reading, test and reseal, and other services vital to the operations of Meralco and other distribution utility companies.

In 2022, DUS launched its AntiObstruction of Power Lines (AOPL) service, a new business venture developed to assist Meralco in its implementation of the government’s Republic Act 11361 or the AOPL Act of 2019.

The UAM business unit ensures the safety and the integrity of Meralco facilities, which have foreign attachments like telecoms fiber optic cables and copper lines. It also provides fast evaluation of Request-to-Attach (RTA) applications, which is required from third parties such as cable companies and telcos prior to installing their service wires in Meralco facilities.

Other services provided are pole inventory and clearing operations, RTA audit, alley arm installation, unauthorized attachments survey, and correction and bundling of low sagging wires – all of which help Meralco’s fight against urban blight.

The Telecommunications business unit supports the industry in expanding telecommunications infrastructure and services. Over the past years, it has built and maintained networks for telcos, internet services providers, cable tv operators, mobile network operators and recently, the towercos.

This business unit also connects the telcos’ and ISPs’ residential and enterprise customers for their internet service and network connectivity requirements. Today, Telecoms continues to deliver value to its customers by addressing the challenges while keeping its commitment to help customers achieve their goals.

MIESCOR, through its Trading business unit, partners with world-class manufacturers and suppliers to provide energy efficient solutions and high-quality products to its clients in the energy and power sector. Aside from provision of supplies, the business unit also offers delivery services of their products such as reclosers, kilowatthour meters, and instrument transformers, to name a few.

UNPARALLELED ENGINEERING EXPERTISE Committed to its vision of becoming a world-class EPC company and the service provider of choice, MIESCOR has been recognized by the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB), the implementing agency of the Construction Industry Association of the Philippines.

Armed with its wealth of experience and earned trust from its roster of clientele comprising local and global corporations, MIESCOR has been consistently classified

FORGING STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS. MIDC signed a sale and leaseback agreement with Globe Telecom, Inc. (Globe) valued at P26.2 billion in 2022.

THE FORCE BEHIND POWER. MIESCOR provides various services to distribution utility companies including Meralco, the country’s largest distribution utility company.

by PCAB with a Quadruple A or “AAAA”, the highest license category for engineering, building and specialty electrical mechanical and communication facilities contractor, since 2018.

Another testament to the company’s commitment to cater high quality service to its customers and stakeholders, MIESCOR has also secured certifications from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) such as the ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management System), ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management System), and ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health and Safety Management System).

These certifications are a clear demonstration of how the company’s policies, practices and procedures are designed to ensure consistent service quality by meeting industry and international standards.

GROWING THE BUSINESS Resolute in continuing to create value for its customers and stakeholders, MIESCOR has evolved and grown over the years. It now has three (3) subsidiaries that cater various services to different sectors and industries.

distribution utilities, industrial and commercial units, and even residential customers. It continues to expand its services which now include vehicle leasing and transport services, and short-term cleaning and facilities repair works offered to corporate and residential accounts. Aside from being classified by PCAB with a Category AA license, MLI also celebrated its 22nd anniversary this year.

Fast forward to the later part of 2021, MIESCOR established its youngest subsidiary to date. Constantly evolving and developing, MIESCOR INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (MIDC), an independent tower company and a joint venture with US-based Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners, was launched as its newest venture in the telecommunications space. The unit’s key services include shared passive telecoms tower infrastructure construction, operations, and maintenance.

In 2022, MIDC signed a sale and leaseback agreement with Globe Telecom, Inc. (Globe) valued at P26.2 billion. Under the said

UNPARALLELED EXPERTISE. MIESCOR has consistently been recognized by the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) with a Quadruple A or ‘AAAA’, the highest license category for engineering, building and specialty electrical mechanical and communication facilities contractor, since 2018.

MIESCOR BUILDERS INC. (MBI), established in 1995 as the first ever subsidiary, offers key services such as building construction and underground capability under civil construction, testing and commissioning, line construction and substation operations and maintenance to distribution utilities, industrial and commercial units. Building on the energy expertise of its parent company, MBI is classified by PCAB with a Category AA license.

Six years later, MIESCOR LOGISTICS, INC. (MLI) was incorporated to undertake logistics management, particularly of fleets and warehouses, facilities maintenance, manpower, and managed services to

agreement, MIDC will acquire 2,180 towers and related passive telecom infrastructure from Globe. The companies have so far transitioned 1,149 towers to date and have an ongoing build to suit engagement for 235 towers. The transition is expected to be completed in 2024.

MIESCOR continues to grow as its acquisition of MERALCO ENERGY, INC. (MServ), one of the country’s largest energy service companies (ESCOs) accredited by the Department of Energy (DOE), as its fourth subsidiary is underway.

Known as a one-stop shop for energy, engineering, and EPC services and classified

by PCAB as Category AAA license, the strategic move to acquire MServ will further

cement MIESCOR’s industry stature as MServ also serves as the lead integrator of One Meralco’s services to hyperscalers.

“MIESCOR continues to blaze the trail for engineering excellence. I am also proud to say that this 50-year-old subsidiary is the highest revenue contributor to One Meralco. Beyond corporate achievement, MIESCOR continues to dedicate its service to the Filipino people and contribute to the development of our nation,” Meralco Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer and OIC for Subsidiary Businesses Ferdinand O. Geluz said.

VALUING AND RECOGNIZING LOYALTY For MIESCOR, its entire workforce is not merely viewed as employees but rather as a family and partners in the business.

The company is dedicated to creating an environment where hard work is greatly valued, and the members of its workforce can thrive.

Hence, for its 50th year, the company also deemed it fit to also celebrate its loyal and dedicated employees. MIESCOR’s most tenured employee has been with them for 42 years.

Lourdeliza Esguerra Escañan, or more commonly referred to as Ma’am Lorna, started as an intern back in 1980. A year after, she officially became a part of the company’s workforce in 1981 as a clerk, and eventually became an Executive Secretary in 1992.

In her over four decades as a MIESCOR employee, Ma’am Lorna has worked under eight (8) company presidents. She is now a Senior Manager and the lead of the company’s Administrative Services Group.

“One of my greatest achievements is my 42-year (and counting) career in MIESCOR. I get to do what I love to do for the company I love. My bosses and co-employees give me utmost respect and dearly appreciate my abilities. I am given opportunities to lead by example and guide my colleagues especially the new ones and share the knowledge I learned from my experiences over the years,” Ma’am Lorna said.

“I will forever be thankful to MIESCOR for all the things they helped me accomplish and all the unforgettable memories I will cherish for the rest of my life,” she added.

While many job seekers would generally prefer to apply in companies that are established and have been around for decades, Ma’am Lorna took a chance on MIESCOR despite the company being relatively young, at that time having been around for only eight years.

Ma’am Lorna’s career journey is a clear demonstration of how MIESCOR nurtures talents and cares for the welfare of its people, which earns them their invaluable loyalty and dedication. Needless to say, MIESCOR’s workforce is among the pillars that have enabled the company to achieve stability and longevity.

Building on its rich legacy born from the values of integrity, accountability, and malasakit, MIESCOR will continue its mission to be the country’s premiere end-to-end engineering service provider.

Propelled by the resilience, hard work, and shared passion of its exceptional workforce, MIESCOR’s legacy will continue to be passed on as it adds another fifty and more years to its history of excellent service.

“As we celebrate MIESCOR’s 50 years, we also celebrate each and every employee, past and present, who has contributed to and has been part of the company’s legacy. For half a century, MIESCOR has served as a beacon of hope through its programs and initiatives that have affected positive change not just to the lives of our customers but also to the communities we serve and to our nation,” Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho, who also sits on the Board of Directors of MIESCOR, said.

NEWS

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Black Nazarene feast starts tonight O

RGANIZERS of this year’s Feast of the Black Nazarene has disclosed events lined up during the festivity that officially begins with the usual midnight procession starting at 11:30 p.m. around the Minor Basilica on Saturday, Dec. 30.

According to the Church-run Radio Veritas, more than 330 Masses would be held during the 11-day celebration ending on Jan. 9 traslacion when the bigger-than-life size icon is taken out of the Quiapo Church for the much-awaited procession that draws hundreds of

thousands of devotees.

From Dec. 31 to Jan. 8, 2024, the “Misa Nobenaryo” (Novena Mass) will be held, to be aired live on Radio Veritas 846 on the AM. Band.

Other activities include a village visitation on Jan. 1 to 6, while the replica

blessing and procession will be held on Jan. 3 and 4 at 1:30 p.m.

On Jan. 6 at 6 p.m., a Mass for the volunteers will be held, followed by the opening of the “Pahalik” or kissing of the Nazareno at 7 p.m. until Jan. 8 at the Quirino Grandstand.

The “Panalangin sa Takipsilim” (dusk prayer) will be staged on Jan. 8 at 5:30 p.m., to be followed by a vigil and other programs beginning at 6 p.m.

Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula will lead the grand Fiesta Mass at midnight on Jan. 9, also at the Quirino Grandstand.

The Fiesta Masses set off Jan. 8 from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Following the Mass to be officiated

by Advincula, more Masses will be celebrated until 11 p.m. at the Quiapo Church.

Overall, there will be 33 Masses.

Although the traditional procession will be brought back, organizers noted that it will be unique as the image will be placed in a glass case to provide protection and devotees will have the opportunity to see it during the procession.

This year’s theme of celebrations is “We want to see Jesus.”

SAFETY CHECK.

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. (right) and Bulacan Gov. Daniel Fernando conduct a safety inspection of fireworks stores in Bocaue, Bulacan to ensure that nobody gets hurt during the New Year revelries.

Manny Palmero

CAAP confers CSC chief pays tribute to hardworking gov’t workers ‘compliance’ permit to MIAA THE chief of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) has expressed appreciation for the “dedication and heroism of civil servants who continue to serve with passion and integrity even in the face of adversity.”

In his year-end message to government officials and employees, CSC Commissioner Karlo Nograles cited how government workers from different fields weathered every crisis with “resilient and enduring spirit that defines Filipinos.”

“Amidst the disruptions brought by social, political, and environmental issues, civil servants serve as the anchors of stability, the engines of progress, and the symbol of continuity in a world of many uncertainties,” Nograles said.

By Joel E. Zurbano THE Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) has received a permanent Aerodrome Certificate from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) for the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

The certificate, numbered AGAC-06-2023 issued this month, confirms that the NAIA has satisfied the CAAP’s required standards.

Certified aerodromes in the Philippines are required to have an acceptable safety management system in place.

The MIAA, now under the supervision of its newly appointed general manager Eric Jose Castro Ines, expressed enthusiasm for the achievement, highlighting its focus on improving operational efficiency, safety, security, and passenger experience. ”The journey to this milestone began in 2015 with a temporary certificate obtained in December 2017,” the document read.

MIAA’s Safety Management System Office diligently monitored compliance, achieving a 90.69 percent effective compliance score in March 2021.

The certification reflected improvements at NAIA, such as runway system enhancements, modernization of air traffic control technologies, robust safety and security protocols, and improvements in passenger facilities and services.

THANK YOU GIFTS FOR TRAFFIC ENFORCERS.

Metro Manila Development Authority traffic enforcers and elements of the MMDA Special Operations Group-Strike Force receive Christmas gifts donated by concerned agencies and likeminded citizens as a gesture of gratitude for jobs well done during the passing year. MMDA general manager Procopio Lipana supervises the distribution of the Christmas packages that included five kilos of rice, grocery items, and gift certificates.

LTO suspends overcharging taxi driver

By Rio N. Araja THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) has slapped a 90-day preventive suspension on the license of a taxi driver caught on video while charging a foreign tourist P10,000 at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

A show-cause order was issued to the driver of the taxi with license plate ABG 7845.

LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II said the driver was directed to explain why he should not be punished for violation of at least three provisions of the Joint Administrative Order 2014-01 which prohibits overcharging passengers, manifesting discourtesy and arrogance to passengers, and breach of franchise conditionalities.

Mendoza identified the erring cabbie as Arnel Acle.

“Under the guidance of Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista, we are now coordinating with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board on the sanctions that may be imposed on the operator of the taxi,” he said.

Meanwhile, the entire fleet of the taxi company that owned the cab being driven by Acle will be banned at the NAIA.

DMW hails EO enhancing work environment

By Vito Barcelo THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has welcomed the President’s issuance of Executive Order No. 51 titled “Strengthening the Government’s Diversity and Inclusion Program.”

DMW officer-in-charge Leo Hans Cacdac, in a statement, said E.O. 51 underscores the Marcos administration’s commitment to “fostering a work environment that celebrates the unique strengths and perspectives of every Filipino, including our migrant workers and their families.”

“At the core of the Department’s mandate is the protection and promotion of the welfare of overseas Filipinos. We recognize that diversity and inclusion are essential principles for ensuring that every Filipino, regardless of background, experience, or circumstance, can thrive. This includes our migrant workers, who make invaluable contributions to the Philippine economy and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect in their workplaces abroad,” Cacdac explained.

BFP-Central Visayas chief is 2023 ‘Most Distinct Public Service Icon’

By Roy Tomandao

THE Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) chief in Central Visayas has been recognized as the country’s “Most Distinct Public Service Icon” for 2023.

The recognition was conferred to BFP-Central Visayas director Supt. Roberto Genave by the Philippines Distinct Men and Women of Excellence.

Genave was cited for his “exemplary and outstanding excellence in the field of public service” with a public career spanning over 30 years in regional and national government levels of assignment.

Genave’s track record showed that through the

years, he has continually improved the working conditions and welfare of the uniformed personnel under his leadership, as well as passionately educated the people from all walks of life on the role of public safety in sustainable development.

Genave received the recognition from the international award-giving body, along with other Filipino game-changers in the field of politics, film and television production, sports, and business.

Some of Genave’s fellow awardees included talk show host Boy Abunda, Senator Imee Marcos, National Artist Ricky Lee, world-renowned director Brillante Mendoza, and Public Attorneys’ Office chief Persida Rueda-Acosta.

QC to meet New Year with ‘biggest countdown’ at QMC THE Quezon City government has ordered law enforcers to strictly implement the firecracker ban even as it gears up for the “biggest countdown celebration” on Sunday at the Quezon Memorial Circle.

“The safety and well-being of our households and businesses is paramount. To minimize, if not eliminate, the harm and damage these firecrackers could bring to our people, we remain committed to implementing our national and local laws prohibiting the use, sale and manufacture of dangerous firecrack-

ers. Instead, we are offering QCitizens a safer way to welcome the new year by organizing the grand concert and community fireworks display at the Quezon Memorial Circle (QMC),” Mayor Joy Belmonte said.

Television host Vice Ganda headlines the star-studded celebration at the QMC. Belmonte urged city residents to join the celebration.

“Inaanyayahan ko ang lahat na şamahan kami sa napaka-espesyal na pagdiriwang ng bagong taon. Ito ang handog namin sa lahat ng

QCitizens na kasama namin sa pagpapabuti at pagpapalago ng ating lungsod. Hangad natin na maging ligtas para sa lahat ng QCitizens ang pagsalubong sa bagong taon (I invite everyone to join us in this very special celebration of the New Year. This is our gift to all QCitizens who are with us in improving and developing our city. We want them to be safe in welcoming the New Year),” Belmonte said.

Motorists are also advised to expect a traffic slowdown in the Elliptical Road area where the New Year countdown will take place. Rio Araja

FOR EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE. Bureau of Fire

Protection Region 7 director chief superintendent Roberto Genave shows off his trophies for being recognized as the country’s ‘Most Distinct Public Service Icon for 2023.’ Roy Tomandao

NEWS

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

‘Balikbayans’ urged to spend holidays in PH

By Maricel Cruz THE leader of the House minority bloc urged the government to encourage a larger number of overseas Filipinos to spend their holidays in the Philippines, saying their spending here can boost the country’s tourism revenues and jobs growth.

“We want the Tourism Promotions Board to draw up a new marketing plan that will purposely entice overseas Filipinos to come and visit their motherland,” said Rep. Marcelino Libanan of the 4Ps party-list group.

Libanan was referring to Filipinos who have become permanent residents or citizens of other countries.

“Compared to other foreign visitors, overseas Filipinos tend to spend considerably more money here during their vacations, mainly due to their strong social and economic ties,” Libanan said.

Department of Tourism figures showed a total of 396,147 Philippine passport holders who are permanent residents overseas visited the country from January to November this year.

In 2022, a total of 628,445 Philippine passport holders who are permanent resident aliens abroad visited the country after the COVID-19 pandemic began to wane and global air traffic restrictions were lifted.

The DOT does not have figures on the number of Filipinos or former Filipinos who visited the Philippines using foreign passports.

“Many overseas Filipinos spend for the improvement of their ancestral homes here in the Philippines when they come for a visit, while others set up new investments, such as apartments for rent, to provide a recurring income stream to their relatives here,” Libanan said.

“They are also likely to purchase locally-made products for them to bring with them when they leave,” he added.

Libanan has been batting for the passage of a bill that would upgrade the benefits and privileges enjoyed by returning Filipinos under the Balikbayan Program Law of 1989.

Under Libanan’s House Bill 6472, the aggregate tax-exempt purchase that returning Filipinos and other balikbayans may make at duty-free shops run by the DOT would be increased to $6,000.

At present, balikbayans are entitled to make only up to $3,500 in taxexempt purchases at DOT duty-free shops, including up to $1,500 worth of discretionary consumer goods.

Balikbayans refer to Filipino citizens who have been out of the country for at least one year, and to former Filipino citizens and their family members who have been naturalized in a foreign country and who return to the Philippines.

ENTER THE DRAGON. Ahead of the Year of the Dragon in 2024, Malabon Zoo founder Manny Tangco is joined by the zoo’s resident Komodo dragon named ‘Greenie.’ Andrew Rabulan

Online sellers slapped with 1% tax

By Darwin G. Amojelar

T

HE Bureau of Internal Revenue will impose a one percent withholding tax on online sellers and merchants as part of the government’s effort to raise more revenues.

However, the withholding tax imposed shall not apply if the annual total gross remittances to an online seller or merchant for the past taxable year did not exceed P500,000.

Under BIR Revenue Regulation No. 16-2023 signed by Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno and BIR Commis-

sioner Romeo Lumagui, the withholding tax will be calculated based on one-half of the gross remittances by e-marketplace operators and digital financial service providers to the seller or merchants for the goods or services sold or paid through their platform or facility.

Electronic marketplace refers to a digital service platform whose business is to connect online buyers with online sellers or merchants, while digital financial services platforms refer to the financial technology offering a wide array of services through internet, mobile application or other similar means, including banking services and insurance.

The Philippine E-Commerce Association of the Philippines (PECA) earlier said there are about eight million online sellers in the Philippines.

Based on the data of the Department

WHILE WAITING FOR THEIR TRIPS.

Manila North Harbor Port Inc. distributes champorado to approximately 100 passengers on Friday, Dec. 29, 2023. The Philippine Ports Authority reminds passengers to contact their shipping lines first before going to the ports.

Immigration expects increase in daily departures after New Year

By Vito Barcelo

THE Bureau of Immigration said it expects daily departures to rise to 40,000 a day after New Year.

BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said arrivals remained high after Christmas -- with the agency logging as

high as 57,000 arrivals in a day.

The BI also processed around 30,000 departures a day post-Christmas.

This brought the total arrivals to 1.48 million and total departures to 750,000 for the month of December.

“We project that the numbers will change after New Year, when OFWs

and former Filipinos who came home for the holidays go back to their work and residence abroad,” said Tansingco.

He said no major incidents or concerns have been recorded during their operations during the peak season.

“We hope the smooth operations con-

tinue until the New Year when most of those who celebrated Christmas here go back home,” he said.

Of the 161,664 passengers that arrived in the country during the Christmas weekend, nearly 81 percent arrived via the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

of Trade and Industry, the sector’s monthly sales range between P2 billion to P3 billion.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) likewise reported the country’s digital economy in 2022 amounted to P2.08 trillion, contributing 9.4 percent to the economy. This amount represents an increase of 11 percent from P1.87 trillion in 2021.

According to PSA, the digital economy is composed of digital transactions covering digital-enabling infrastructure, e-commerce, and digital media or content.

PhilSys IDs most used to verify mobile wallet accounts THE Philippine IDs (PhilIDs) and ePhilIDs were the most presented identification systems for account verification of mobile wallet services.

The IDs are issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority through the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys).

According to GCash, PhilIDs and ePhilIDs make up 41 percent of valid IDs submitted by their users for account verification.

Account verification assures legitimacy of the user through submission of valid proof of identity for more secure transactions, and allows higher wallet and transaction limits.

More than just cashing in, buying load, or paying bills, fully verified users can also send money, do bank transfers, and avail secure loan and insurance services.

“We at the PSA take this as a success indicator of the collective efforts of the agency in promoting the use and acceptance of PhilIDs and ePhilIDs in public and private establishments, including financial institutions,” said PSA Undersecretary Dennis Mapa.

Taguig City eases requirements for job applicants

By Joel E. Zurbano THE Taguig City Council has passed an ordinance allowing private employers to no longer require job applicants to secure a clearance or a permit from the Office of the Mayor.

Ordinance 109 would save job seekers not only time but also the additional

expenses of paying such requirements.

The amendment is aligned with Mayor Laarni Cayetano’s program to encourage residents to actively seek employment and engage in their professions.

“Our commitment is anchored in the constitutional mandate to provide full protection to labor and to promote full employment and equality of em-

ployment opportunities for all. We strive to simplify processes, making them more accessible for individuals contributing to Taguig’s vibrant workforce,” Cayetano said.

Meanwhile, the city government upgraded its training center to become a higher-tier technical and vocational education and training facility.

Negros Occ. feted for peace and order efforts MAKE IT SAFE FOR FUR BABIES. Animal welfare advocates and an environmental health group lead the ‘Iwas Paputoxic’ parade in Quezon City on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023.

The event aims to raise awareness on the adverse effects of lighting firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices on humans, pets, and the environment. Manny Palmero

BACOLOD CITY—It was a year of triumphs for Negros Occidental as the province received national recognition for its outstanding local initiatives, including peace efforts, under the leadership of Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson.

In early December, Lacson, who chairs the Regional Peace and Order Council

(RPOC) in Western Visayas, received the Gawad Parangal from the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

He was cited for his efforts in making a positive impact on society, and working for the convergence of efforts to attain the goals of ending the

local armed conflict.

As the chairperson of the RPOC and Provincial TF-ELCAC, Lacson has been advocating for the surrender of communist rebels, urging them to avail of the benefits offered by the national and local governments to make Negros Occidental insurgency-free.

A6

OPINION

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2023

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

Hear, hear

Citizen Barok

Louis ‘Barok’ Biraogo

W

Romualdez charts new course for constitutional change IN A landscape often marred by political gridlock and partisan bickering, it takes a visionary leader to step forward and propose transformative changes for the greater good.

Enter Martin Romualdez, a name that has become synonymous with the much-needed overhaul of our Constitution.

Romualdez’s proposals are not merely a list of reforms but a strategic blueprint for a more responsive and efficient governance structure.

In this piece, we delve into the significance of his proposals, commend his method of reaching out to Local Government Units, and underline the diligent efforts that set him apart in a sea of political initiatives.

Romualdez’s proposals come at a pivotal moment when the nation grapples with the need for Constitutional reform.

The importance of his suggestions cannot be overstated, as they aim to address longstanding issues that have hindered our progress.

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Romualdez’s bold proposals mark a turning point in our nation’s journey toward constitutional reform

From decentralizing power to empowering LGUs, Romualdez’s vision is a breath of fresh air in a political climate often characterized by centralized decision-making.

The proposal to enhance the autonomy of LGUs is particularly commendable, as it reflects a commitment to strengthening local governance and fostering a more inclusive democracy.

What sets Romualdez apart is not just the content of his proposals but the methodical approach he has taken to ensure their success.

Reaching out to LGUs directly is a masterstroke, recognizing that the success of any constitutional change hinges on the cooperation and understanding of local leaders.

By involving them in the process, Romualdez is building a coalition of support that transcends party lines, ensuring that the proposed changes reflect the diverse needs and aspirations of our nation.

Romualdez’s hard work in crafting these

proposals deserves applause.

It’s evident he has not merely paid lip service to the idea of Constitutional reform but has invested time and energy in understanding the nuances and complexities of our current system.

His commitment to the cause is a stark contrast to the failed attempts made by previous administrations, including that of President Duterte.

While Constitutional change has been on the agenda before, it often fell victim to political posturing and lacked the depth and foresight exhibited by Romualdez.

The Duterte administration, despite its promises of change, faced challenges in steering the nation towards constitutional reform.

Romualdez’s proposals, however, learn from the shortcomings of previous attempts.

By emphasizing a collaborative approach and addressing the concerns of LGUs, he is laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and widely accepted reform process.

This is not just a change for the sake of change but a carefully considered evolution of our governance structure.

As Filipinos, our reaction to Romualdez’s proposals should be one of active engagement and thoughtful consideration.

Constitutional change is a significant undertaking, and our collective input is crucial in shaping the future of our nation.

We must resist the temptation to view this through partisan lenses and instead focus on the potential benefits for all citizens.

It is an opportunity to move beyond political rhetoric and work towards a governance model that is more responsive to the needs of the people.

To maximize the impact of Romualdez’s proposals, citizens should actively participate in the discourse surrounding Constitutional change.

Attend town hall meetings, engage in public forums, and voice your opinions through the appropriate channels.

It’s essential to be informed about the specifics of the proposals and their potential implications. This is not a time for passive observation; it’s a call for active citizenship.

Romualdez’s bold proposals mark a turning point in our nation’s journey toward constitutional reform. His method of reaching out to LGUs and the meticulous planning behind these proposals set a standard for political initiatives.

We must recognize the significance of this moment and actively contribute to the dialogue, ensuring that the constitutional changes reflect the aspirations and values of the Filipino people.

It’s time for us to embrace this opportunity for a more inclusive and responsive governance structure.

EVERYMAN

Energizing the provinces

By Melandrew T. Velasco JUST before Christmas day, we were greeted with the good news that by January, San Miguel Corporation hopes to complete its 1,000 megawatts capacity Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) network.

In a previous column, I wrote on the need to achieve energy security to attract more investments and boost industrialization especially in the countryside.

It is undebatable that being energy-secured will have a transformative impact on the economy and help stabilize power supply.

The use of BESS technology in the country was introduced in 2016 in Masinloc.

In 2018, it was procured by San Miguel Corporation.

In March this year, SMC inaugurated its BESS in Limay, Bataan.

The presence of no less than President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. underscored the importance of the project in the country’s economic development.

BESS refers to an energy storage system that utilizes batteries to store excess energy and distributes the stored energy in the form of electricity.

BESS, undertaken by SMC subsidiary San Miguel Global Power Holdings Corporation, is the first of its kind in the Philippines and considered one of the largest

integrated grid-scale battery energy storage projects in the world.

There are 32 facilities nationwide that comprise the BESS network under SMC, 31 of which are in the completion stage.

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We should be grateful to the private sector participation in creating an environment conducive to the attainment of our goals

The network has an aggregate capacity of 1,000 MWh. SMC President and CEO Ramon S. Ang said the number could be increased “if there is a demand.”

For this initiative, SMC has partnered with ABB Philippines, Fluence and Wartsila as its engineering, procurement and construction contractors. Cost of the BESS

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MEMBER

PPI

Philippine Press Institute The National Association of Philippine Newspapers

E AGREE wholeheartedly with a maritime expert who urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to file “an entitlement to a continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles in the West Philippines Sea.” That should be filed before a United Nations commission amid China’s aggression in claiming, under its mythical TenDash Line, most parts of the area, according to the director of the University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea Jay Batongbacal.

“It is not ‘a claim for territorial ownership’ but a ‘submission to establish entitlement to a continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles’ in the WPS,” Batongbacal said.

Batongbacal said the President can file the submission before the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea’s Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf.

We understand the same recommendation was made to the past administrations under then presidents Benigno Aquino III

Eagle Eyes Tony La Viña

EDITORIAL (2010-2016) and Rodrigo Duterte (2016- the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS ad2022) but no action was taken. dresses the issue of jurisdiction over these resources by allocating sovereign rights to the coastal State for exploration and exploitation.

Continental shelves are commonly cut The President can by submarine canyons and are sometimes file the submission referred to as continental platform, continental slope, land bridge, offshore rights, before the United submarine canyon, and territorial waters.

Nations Convention Continental resources are areas with important natural resources, particularly on the Law of the fisheries, but also oil and gas, and sand and Sea’s Commission gravel. During the peak of the last ice age, the world’s continental shelves were moston the Limits of the ly exposed coastal plain environments.

Continental Shelf We are also aware of the National Security Council’s welcome for the latest OCTA survey which showed majority of adult Filipinos agree with the Marcos administration’s approach in handling the territorial dispute with China in the West International law experts say coastal Philippine Sea. countries have exclusive rights to resources “We appreciate the support of the Filiwithin the continental shelf, which legally pino people and the public can be assured is defined as the seabed up to roughly 370 the NSC will always advance the national km from shore or to the outer edge of the interest and protect our sovereignty and continental margin, whichever is farther, territorial integrity at all times,” National subject to an overall limit of about 650 km. Security Adviser Eduardo Año said in a The significance of the continental shelf statement. is that it may contain valuable minerals Año, who chairs the NSC, said the Philand shellfish. ippines shall pursue its national interest The United Nations Convention on with greater resolve in 2024.

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Laudato Sii reminders from Pope Francis

WHEN there are environmental conflicts, whether it is reclamation or mining projects or the cutting of trees to give way to malls, resorts, or parking spaces, I turn to the papal encyclical Laudato Sii. I teach the encylcial in many Catholic schools and lecture about it frequently because Pope Francis’ reminders about our relationship with nature is good guidance in decision making. Catholic universities must particularly mainstream this thinking in their actions.

Here are some excerpts: “If we approach nature and the environment without…openness to awe and wonder, if we no longer speak the language of fraternity and beauty in our relationship with the world, our attitude will be that of masters, consumers, ruthless exploiters, unable to set limits on their immediate needs.

“By contrast, if we feel intimately united with all that exists, then sobriety and care will well up spontaneously.” (Laudato Sii, #11) “We must be grateful for the praiseworthy efforts being made by scientists and engineers dedicated to finding solutions to manmade problems.

“But a sober look at our world shows that the degree of human intervention, often in the service of business interests and consumerism, is actually making our earth less rich and beautiful, ever more limited and grey, even as technological advances and consumer goods continue to abound limitlessly.

“We seem to think that we can substitute an irreplaceable and irretrievable beauty with something which we have created ourselves. (Laudato Sii, #34) “Because all creatures are connected, each must be cherished with love and respect, for

all of us as living creatures are dependent on one another. Each area is responsible for the care of this family.” (Laudato Sii, #42).

initiative is around $1 billion.

According to the Department of Energy website, Summary of Committed Projects by plant type as of Oct 31, 2023 comprised coal, oil-based, natural gas, renewable energy and energy storage systems.

Annual summary of target commercial operation (MW) for BESS is 2,024.00 MW for 2023-2028. Of this number, Luzon accounts for 1,394 MW; Visayas, 370 MW; and Mindanao, 260 MW. BESS project sites include Isabela, Cagayan, Tarlac, Laguna, Pampanga, Batangas, Albay, La Union, Pangasinan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Bataan, Ilocos Norte, Navotas, Quezon, Zambales, Nueva Vizcaya, Camarines, Cavite, and Benguet in Luzon.

In Visayas, sites are in Bohol, Leyte, Iloilo, Cebu, Antique, Samar, Negros Oriental, and Negros Occidental. Meanwhile, Mindanao sites are in Misamis Oriental, Davao del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Bukidnon, South Cotabato, and Davao.

Among the benefits of utilizing BESS include: grid stabilization, renewable energy integration, peak shaving, back-up power during power outage, and support for electric vehicle charging.

Utilizing BESS is suitable especially with intermittent renewable energy sources like wind and solar.

“With battery energy storage, we can solve the problem with most renewable energy sources, which is intermittence, due to the irregularity or seasonality of solar and wind power sources,” RSA said.

Aside from storing excess energy from renewable sources, it can also store excess energy from traditional sources.

“Our facilities can support the integration of over 5,000 MW of renew able power sources into the grid,” he added.

It lessens demand on grid during peak periods and cuts down the demand from plants that are usually dependent on fossil fuels.

The use of BESS is aligned with the goal of addressing the challenge of climate change and global warming as more countries are redirecting their efforts to confront these global environmental realities.

According to RSA, SMC’s ongoing investment into BESS “will greatly benefit power consumers all over the country, because this will mean that even faraway provinces or areas, can have the same stable and good quality power supply as everywhere else.”

More stable power supply in the provinces will be a stimulus for progress.

Where no industrial plants would relocate because of poor power quality, the presence of BESS can even support equal-opportunity industrialization in these areas.

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

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

—“—

The ideal is to discover the action of God in the soul (and) discover God in all things

“Nowadays, for example, we are conscious of the disproportionate and unruly growth of many cities, which have become unhealthy to live in, not only because of pollution caused by toxic emissions but also as a result of urban chaos, poor transportation, and visual pollution and noise. “Many cities are huge, inefficient structures, excessively wasteful of energy and water. Neighbourhoods, even those recently built, are congested, chaotic and lacking in sufficient green space. We were not meant to be inundated by cement, asphalt, glass and metal, and deprived of physical contact with nature.”

(Laudato Sii, #44).

“Together with our obligation to use the earth’s goods responsibly, we are called to recognize that other living beings have a value of their own in God’s eyes . . . Each creature possesses its own particular goodness and perfection…

“Each of the various creatures, willed in its own being, reflects in its own way a ray of God’s infinite wisdom and goodness.

“Man must therefore respect the particular goodness of every creature, to avoid any disordered use of things”. (Laudato Sii, #69).

“Our insistence that each human being is an image of God should not make us overlook the fact that each creature has its own purpose. None is superfluous.

“The entire material universe speaks of God’s love, his boundless affection for us.

Soil, water, mountains: everything is, as it were, a caress of God. “The history of our friendship with God is always linked to particular places which take on an intensely personal meaning; we all remember places, and revisiting those memories does us much good.

“Anyone who has grown up in the hills or used to sit by the spring to drink, or played outdoors in the neighbourhood square; going back to these places is a chance to recover something of their true selves.” (Laudato Sii, #84).

“We have to accept that technological products are not neutral, for they create a framework which ends up conditioning lifestyles and shaping social possibilities along the lines dictated by the interests of certain powerful groups.

“Decisions which may seem purely instrumental are in reality decisions about the kind of society we want to build.” (Laudato Sii, #107).

“The universe unfolds in God, who fills it completely. Hence, there is a mystical meaning to be found in a leaf, in a mountain trail, in a dewdrop, in a poor person’s face.

“The ideal is not only to pass from the exterior to the interior to discover the action of God in the soul, but also to discover God in all things” (Laudato Sii, #233).

Website: tonylavina.com Facebook and X: tonylavs Further, this will encourage the growing middle class based in the provinces to invest in projects that can be engines for growth as well as provide employment opportunities to the locals.

“This means that provinces and islands will have better and more equal opportunities for industrialization and economic growth. If previously some areas could not attract investments because of unstable or poor power supply, battery energy storage will make power supply more stable and reliable,” RSA said.

Additionally, the use of battery energy storage system helps in the reduction of energy cost which is essential in revitalizing industries.

As the country continues to strive for economic growth and development, we should be grateful to the private sector participation in creating an environment conducive to the attainment of our goals.

As we welcome 2024, let us move forward with determination to achieve our aspiration as a nation.

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

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

Associate Editor Managing Editor News Editor

Honor Blanco Cabie Opinion Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

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WORLD

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2023

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Russia pummels Ukrainian cities with missile strikes

SURGING MIGRATION.

US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken greets the press while boarding a plane at the Felipe Angeles International Airport after meeting with Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador in Zumpango, State of Mexico Thursday. Blinken arrived in Mexico a day earlier in hopes of tackling surging migration, which has become a major political headache for President Joe Biden as he enters an election year. AFP

Nepal blames pilot error for Jan. crash KATHMANDU, Nepal – Pilot error caused the January plane crash in Nepal that killed all 72 on board, an official said Friday, after a months-long investigation of the country’s worst aviation disaster in three decades.

The Yeti Airlines service was flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a gateway for religious pilgrims and trekkers, when it crashed on descent.

The ATR 72 with 68 passengers and four crew plummeted into a steep gorge, smashed into pieces and burst into flames as it approached its destination.

Six children and 15 foreigners were among those killed.

Buddhi Sagar Lamichhane, a member of the investigating commission, told AFP that the probe had concluded that the “wrong lever” was pulled in the cockpit.

“Technically, the plane was fine but it seems wrong human input caused it to stall and crash,” he said.

The report, submitted to the tourism ministry on Thursday, said the most probable cause of the fatal crash was “inadvertent movement of both condition levers to the feathered position in flight”. AFP

KYIV – Russia launched a wave of missile strikes on Friday across Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, killing at least two people and wounding 18, officials said.

AFP reporters in Kyiv heard several powerful explosions in the early hours of Friday and saw thick black smoke billowing from a warehouse.

“We haven’t seen so much red on our monitors for a long time,” said Yuriy Ignat, a spokesman for Ukraine’s air force, explaining that Russian forces had first launched a wave of suicide drones followed by missiles.

“There are people killed by Russian missiles today that were

launched at civilian facilities, civilian buildings,” presidential aide Andriy Yermak said.

“We are doing everything to strengthen our air shield. But the world needs to see that we need more support and strength to stop this terror,” he said on Telegram.

In Berlin, a senior German military figure said in an interview published on Friday that Russia has suffered huge human and material losses in Ukraine and its army will emerge weakened from the conflict, The interview came as Kyiv is fighting to maintain western support for its war against Russian forces, which invaded in February 2022. AFP

Fighting rages between Israel, Hamas in Gaza

J

ERUSALEM – Fighting raged Friday between Israel and Hamas in the besieged Gaza Strip, triggered by the Palestinian militant group’s unprecedented attack nearly 12 weeks ago.

The Oct 7 attack resulted in the deaths of around 1,140 people in Israel, most of them civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures.

Hamas gunmen seized about 250 hostages, 129 of whom remain in Gaza after others were released and several were killed including by friendly fire.

Israel, determined to destroy Hamas, launched a relentless air and ground offensive that has left vast areas of Gaza in ruins.

The Israeli campaign has killed at least 21,320 people, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory’s health ministry.

On day 84 of the war, here are five key

developments from the past 24 hours: Israeli shelling over two days near Al-Amal hospital in southern Gaza’s main city Khan Yunis has killed 41 people, the Palestinian Red Crescent said Thursday.

The casualties include “displaced persons seeking shelter” at Red Crescent premises, it said.

The Gaza health ministry later said Israeli shelling had killed 20 people at the Shaboura camp in Rafah near Egypt.

The UN humanitarian office said an estimated 100,000 more people had arrived in the already-teeming southern border city of Rafah in recent days following the intensification of fighting around Deir al-

Balah and Khan Yunis.

A Hamas delegation is due in Cairo Friday to give its “observations” about an Egyptian plan for a ceasefire, a Hamas official said.

Sources close to Hamas say Cairo’s three-stage plan provides for renewable ceasefires, a staggered release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israel, and ultimately a ceasefire to end the war.

Israel has given preliminary approval to Cyprus for a maritime humanitarian corridor to ship aid to Gaza, the Israeli foreign ministry said Thursday.

The proposal would allow badly needed international aid to be checked “with Israeli supervision” in Cyprus before delivery, it said.

Last week the UN Security Council passed a resolution calling for “safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance at scale.”

US President Joe Biden is “devas-

tated” by the death of US-Israeli Judith Weinstein Haggai, who had been thought to be the oldest woman held captive in Gaza, the White House said.

The 70-year-old’s death was announced late Thursday by her kibbutz community of Nir Oz, which said her body remains in the hands of militants.

A military investigation published Thursday found that Israeli soldiers ignored cries for “help” when they stormed a Gaza building holding three hostages just days before killing them by mistake earlier this month.

The Israel-Hamas war has intensified tensions across the region.

Israeli air strikes late Thursday hit southern Syria, the Syrian defence ministry said, reporting no casualties.

A war monitor said the area of Damascus international airport had been hit “one whole day” after it had reopened following Israeli strikes in late November. AFP

Trump blocked from Republican Maine presidential primary ballot

POET CRITICS. Russian poet Artyom Kamardin stands inside the defendants’ glass cage during their verdict announcement at a court in Moscow on Thursday. Russian poets Artyom Kamardin and Yegor Shtovba maintained their innocence but were sentenced to prison terms by Russian authorities, who have cracked down on any criticism of the military operation in Ukraine. AFP

WASHINGTON, DC – The US state of the state supreme court this month found Maine on Thursday (Friday in Manila) Trump ineligible for the presidency, blocked former president Donald Trump moves that will certainly be challenged in from its Republican presidential primary the US Supreme Court. AFP ballot, the second state to disqualiREPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES fy him over his role in the January REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 2021 assault on the US Capitol.

NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION Maine’s top election official, BRANCH 78 – QUEZON CITY Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, FRANCISCO EMER TRIA, decided in favor of the citizens who Petitioner, had claimed that Trump should be - versus CIVIL CASE NO. R-QZN-23-08846-CV constitutionally barred from seeking For: Declaration of Nullity of Marriage re-election after trying to upend the Under 55 of Republic Act No. 386 2020 election.

STELLA MANINANG, Bellows said in her decision that the Respondent.

January 6 attack “occurred at the bex---------------------------------------------x hest of, and with the knowledge and SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION support of, the outgoing President.”

TO: STELLA MANINANG “The US Constitution does not No. 77 K-3rd Street, Kamuning, Quezon City tolerate an assault on the foundaGREETINGS: tions of our government and (Maine You are hereby required, within thirty (30) days law) requires me to act in response,” after service of this Summons upon you, copy of read the decision, which came in rewhich are published for two (2) consecutive Saturdays sponse to challenges filed by a handin a newspaper of general circulation throughout ful of Maine voters. the Philippines, and to file with this Court and serve on the petitioner your Answer to the instant Petition Maine joins Colorado, where

Bangladesh’s ‘tiny houses’ tackle flood challenge caused by climate change CHAR SHILDAHA, Bangladesh – An award-winning architect in Bangladesh, one of the nations most at risk from flooding driven by climate change, has developed an ingenious two-floor housing solution to help people survive what scientists warn is a growing threat.

This year, when the annual mon-

soon floodwaters swelled the country’s mighty Brahmaputra river, 40-year-old farmer Abu Sayeed did not have to abandon his home for the first time in his life -- but merely climb up a ladder and wait out the waters.

The “Khudi Bari” or “tiny house” -- resilient homes made on bamboo

stilts rising out of the floodwaters that are also easy to move to safer locations when needed -- offer hope to millions.

“Khudi Bari has saved us,” Sayeed told AFP, who like millions, lives on Bangladesh’s vast river floodplains because the fertile soil is good for the maize and chilli crops he grows.

“We did not leave... we slept on the upper floor. I hope we will never have to flee our homes thanks to this house.”

Bangladesh is listed as the seventh most vulnerable to extreme weather caused by climate change and rising sea levels, according to the environmental rights organization Germanwatch. AFP

HK democracy backer seeks asylum in Britain HONG KONG – Hong Kong democracy activist Tony Chung, who once called for the city’s independence and was the youngest person to be jailed under its national security law, said Friday he would seek asylum in the United Kingdom.

Beijing imposed the national security law on Hong Kong in 2020 after months of huge and often violent prodemocracy protests in the former British colony.

In 2021, Chung, then 20, became the youngest person to be jailed under the security law after he pleaded guilty to

“secession” and was sentenced to three and a half years in prison.

Chung said he had “safely arrived in the United Kingdom and have formally applied for political asylum upon entry”, according to a statement posted on Facebook early Friday but dated December 27.

He said he had been closely watched

by Hong Kong’s national security police despite his jail term having ended in June and was blocked from taking up work.

The Washington Post reported he was released early for good behaviour. AFP

above captioned and filed with this Court sitting at Room 203 2nd Floor Hall of Justice Annex Building, QC Hall Compound, Diliman, Quezon City. Subject petition is for the Declaration of Nullity of Marriage you contracted with the Petitioner on OCTOBER 10, 1983 at the YMCA BUILDING, ARROCEROS, ERMITA, MANILA before REV. FLORENCIO S. DE LEON. The petitioner seeks the declaration of the Nullity of Your Marriage from the beginning or ab initio for “lack of marriage ceremony, an indispensable requirement for a valid marriage under Article 55 of Republic Act No. 386”; and that said marriage be declared as an absolute nullity; and that corresponding Decree be issued accordingly.

If you fail to answer within the time fixed, the Court shall order the Prosecutor assigned to it to appear on behalf of the State to take steps to prevent collusion between the parties and to take care that evidence is not fabricated or suppressed, and shall hear the petitioner’s case and may grant the petitioner the relief applied for.

You are likewise required to submit with your Answer certified copies of documents as well as affidavits of any and all witnesses to stand as your evidence in this case. You must present the original document/s on the day of hearing.

Moreover, you are reminded of the provision of IBP-OCA Memorandum on Policy Guidelines dated March 12, 2002 to observe restraint in filing a Motion to Dismiss and instead alleged the grounds thereof as defenses in the Answer.

STONE SCULPTURES. Kenyan stone sculptor Elkana Ong’esa sits next to some

of his sculptures at the Elkana Ong’esa Museum in Kisii recently. As Kenya’s most lauded sculptor, 79-year-old Elkana Ong’esa has seen his gigantic stone sculptures displayed all over the world – from the UNESCO headquarters in Paris to the United Nations in New York – but believes African art still hasn’t won the recognition it deserves, either overseas or at home. AFP

Witness, the Honorable FERNANDO T. SAGUN, JR., Presiding Judge of this Court, this 4th day of December, 2023.

[ORIGINAL SIGNED] ATTY. NORHASSAN S. CURO Branch Clerk of Court (MStandard - Dec. 30, 2023 & Jan. 6, 2024)

BUSINESS

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2023

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

PPA unveils plan to build cruise terminals in 2024 STATE-RUN Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) said Friday it will develop more cruise terminals next year as it recorded more than 80,000 ship passengers visiting the Philippines this year.

PPA general-manager Jay Santiago said the agency would develop more cruise terminals near tourism sites in Siargao, Camiguin, Boracay, Palawan and Puerto Galera.

“This is in addition to the cruise terminals in the ports of Currimao in Ilocos Norte, Salomague in Ilocos Sur, Manila, Bohol and El Nido, Palawan,” Santiago said.

It said that from February to December this year, over 80,000 cruise ship passengers from Norweigan Cruise lines, Holland America Line, Silverseas, Windstar Cruises and Aida Cruises visited the Philippines.

PPA said that on Christmas Day, around 1,000 foreign and local passengers aboard MV AidaBella of Aida Cruises from Germany visited the Port of Coron to discover the natural wonders Palawan.

The Port of Coron is now ready to accommodate up to 900 persons in its passenger terminal area following a massive renovation which was completed earlier this year. Santiago said that from a maximum of 250 passengers before, the Port of Coron could now accommodate an additional 500 passengers and up to 900 people during peak season.

“It is good that the passengers can now experience again the warmth of the Filipino culture and the hospitality of the people receiving them. From the ports upon arrival, we make sure they are given the proper treatment and we make sure that they are welcomed warmly in our newly improved passenger terminals,” Santiago said.

Darwin G. Amojelar

Converge topped Netflix ISP speed index in November CONVERGE ICT Solutions Inc. said Friday it topped the latest Netflix ISP Speed Index Leaderboard, a position it held for most of the year.

The Netflix Speed Index in November showed Converge clocking in at 3 megabits per second (Mbps), with its 11-month average at 3.25 Mbps. This surpassed the country’s average speed of 2.8 Mbps.

The index is a measure of prime-time Netflix performance on particular internet service providers (ISPs) around the globe, where faster ISP speed performance generally means better picture quality, quicker start times and fewer interruptions when watching movies, TV series and other content on Netflix.

“As we hold on to the number one spot in this important barometer of internet performance, we are inspired to keep on doing better for our customers, especially to our more than two million subscribers who rely on our end-to-end fiber connectivity to sustain their digital life,” said Converge ICT co-founder and chief executive Dennis Uy. Converge said that in line with its commitment to give the best value for money while not sacrificing broadband quality and speed it forayed into more affordable fiber products in 2023.

It introduced S2S or Surf2Sawa, its prepaid fiber internet product which offers speeds of 25 Mbps for six gadgets at P700 per month. It also further expanded its postpaid portfolio with BIDA Fiber which is priced at sub-P1000, or at P888 per month, giving 35 Mbps for six gadgets. Darwin G. Amojelar

ERC analysis finds ‘notable’ disparity in movement of power, coal prices

By Alena Mae S. Flores

INTERNATIONAL AWARD. Maynilad Water Services Inc. (Maynilad) receives the ‘climate smart utility’ award from the International Water Association (IWA) during its Climate Smart Utilities Recognition Program in Kigali, Rwanda. Accepting the award on behalf of Maynilad are sustainability head John Emmanuel Martinez (left) and quality, sustainability and resiliency division head Roel Espiritu (center) from IWA [resident Tom Mollenkopf. IWA cited Maynilad’s adaptation and mitigation efforts in addressing the effects of climate change on its operations, including its diversification of raw water sources, upgrade of treatment facilities in response to the worsening raw water quality and reduction of non-revenue water, among other activities.

December inflation seen hitting higher end of target I

By Darwin G. Amojelar

NFLATION rate in December may settle at the higher end of the government’s target range on stable foreign exchange rate and petroleum prices.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Friday predicted that inflation in December would settle within a range of 3.6 percent to 4.4 percent. The Philippine Statistics Authority will release the official data in January.

The midpoint of the BSP forecast at 4.0 percent represents the higher end of the government’s target range of 2 percent to 4 percent for the year and was in line with the figure in November.

“Higher prices of rice and meat are seen as the primary sources of upward price pressures in December,” the BSP said.

“Meanwhile, lower prices for agri-

cultural items such as vegetables, fruits, and fish along with lower electricity rates and petroleum prices are expected to contribute to downward price pressures,” it said.

Strong inflows of remittances kept the foreign exchange rate stable at P55.5 against the US dollar in recent weeks, and together with the decreased prices of crude oil in the world market, helped ease pressures on local consumer prices.

The BSP said it would continue to monitor developments affecting the outlook for inflation and growth in line with its data-dependent approach to

SEC streamlines process for submission of annual reports, other requirements

By Jenniffer B. Austria

BANK-ON-WHEELS. City Savings Bank leads the inauguration of Bank-on-Wheels mobile kiosk in collaboration with its parent company the Union Bank of the Philippines.

The kiosk features services such as balance inquiry and cash withdrawal, making these more accessible to customers. Attending the event are (from left) CitySavings president Manuel Santiago Jr., chair Ana Aboitiz-Delgado, chief executive Lorenzo Ocampo, external relations Head Roel Eric Garcia, marketing head Paula Katerina Joson, salary loans business head Julian Aboitiz, head of operations Joebart Dator, treasurer Raquel Palang and legal head, corporate secretary and data protection officer Ernesto Herrera.

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said Friday it is streamlining the registration process to make it easier for corporations to file annual reports and other requirements.

It said it issued rules to integrate certain reportorial requirements with the registration process and provide for the automatic enrollment of newly-registered corporations in its online submission portal.

“Corporations’ reportorial and other regulatory requirements provide vital information and insights to policymakers, regulators, law enforcers, businesses, investors and other stakeholders,” SEC chairperson Emilio Aquino said.

“In this light, we are making it easier for corporations to comply with these

requirements, as well as for stakeholders to access and use them to inform their decisions and actions,” he said.

Under the new rules, new corporations will no longer have to submit separate reports for their official and alternate email addresses and mobile phone numbers as well as information on their beneficial owners.

They will be required to provide such information during the registration process either through the SEC’s Electronic Simplified Processing of Application for Registration of Company (eSPARC) or the One-Day Submission and Eregistration of Companies (OneSEC).

New corporations will be automatically enrolled in Electronic Filing and Submission Tool (eFAST), the SEC’s online system for submission of reportorial requirements.

PH stock index closes the year at 6,450, expected to rebound in 2024 PHILIPPINE stocks ended 2023 in the red, as the benchmark index lost 69.07 points, or 1.06 percent, on Friday to close at 6,450.04 on hawkish stance by the Bankgo Sentral ng Pilipinas.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange Index (PSEi) also went down by 116.35 points, or 1.8 percent since

the start of the year.

BSP Governor Eli Remolona earlier said the central bank was unlikely to cut rates on continued upward pressure on commodity prices.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the PSEi’s performance was below the hefty gains in

Life insurance sales increased nearly 10% in first six months LIFE insurance annual premium equivalent (APE) sales in the first semester of 2023 grew by nearly 10 percent from a year earlier as the industry remained well-positioned to top its annual prepandemic level.

APE is the annual total value of all single and recurring premium policies.

The life insurance sector, known for its heavy reliance on face-to-face transactions in marketing its products, was among the most impacted during the pandemic years, but Filipino families are now increasingly prioritizing insurance to safeguard themselves and their loved ones against unforeseen events, according to BDO Life Assurance Company.

monetary policy decision-making.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that inflation eased to 4.1 percent in November from 4.9 percent in October and 6.1 percent in September.

The November inflation brought the average rate to 6.2 percent, exceeding the BSP’s 2 percent to 4 percent target for the year.

The Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) earlier said the average inflation rate for 2023 was expected to settle at 6 percent.

BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr. said the BSP was unlikely to cut interest rates in the next few months.

The policy-making Monetary Board earlier kept the overnight borrowing rate unchanged at 6.50 percent and the overnight deposit and lending facilities at 6.0 percent and 7.0 percent.

THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) said an initial analysis of its fuel audit showed a “notable disparity” between the substantial reduction in coal prices globally compared to the actual decline in local generation rates over a 24-month period.

“We’re pleased to note that generation rates are stabilizing, although we noticed that while the global coal prices have really reduced significantly, the generation rate trend did not move the same way. It went down, but not in parallel, not in the same manner as the global coal prices have gone down,” ERC chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta said in news briefing late Thursday.

The generation charge represents the cost associated with producing the power supplied to consumers, excluding other charges such as transmission fees, system loss, distribution fees, subsidies and taxes. It is collected by distribution utilities and remitted to the generation companies responsible for providing the electricity and constitutes 60 percent to 65 percent of the monthly electricity bill of Filipino consumers.

Dimalanta said the ERC is set to release early next year its findings on the initial fuel cost audit conducted on generation firms.

The audit involves an analysis of the approved fuel formula of generation companies (gencos) vis-à-vis the amount collected from distribution utilities (Dus) that are being passed on to consumers.

Dimalanta said the ERC was not saying that the gencos were taking advantage of the situation, but the regulator only wanted to understand the reason.

“It could be because our macroeconomic conditions are still not as good. The peso-dollar exchange rate is still affecting importation, the cost of logistics in terms of importation could also affect [generation charges],” she said.

Renato Vergel De Dios, an insurance industry expert and president and chief executive of BDO Life, said it is now crucial for individuals to seriously consider insurance and start acquiring essential assets, given the robust financial performance of insurance providers.

“The industry’s growth directly translates into enhanced benefits and security for our valued policyholders, reinforcing our commitment to their financial wellbeing. Just as now is an opportune time to invest and acquire other personal assets, it is equally timely that our future income is preserved, in the event of untimely death, and its value passed on to our loved ones,” said De Dios.

Only life insurance has the power to transfer future income otherwise foregone, to those who rely on us for financial support. This is the peace of mind that only life insurance can provide so that our loved ones need not worry should anything happen to their financial provider or breadwinner,” De Dios said.

He said securing oneself with life insurance and other assets ensures genuine financial security. The primary purpose of life insurance is to act as a safety net for losses due to death, illness or disability. It is a viable financial Plan B when a person’s program of savings and investments, his Plan A, fails, he said.

the US and other major global markets.

Ricafort said despite the weakness in the local stock market on the last trading day, the PSEi still posted net gains since Dec. 14, 2023 triggered by near record highs in the US stock markets.

The US markets rallied for fifth straight trading day after the Federal Re-

serve signaled possible rate cuts in 2024.

Ricafort said the PSEi could rebound in 2024 and reflect the bullishness in the US and other global markets.

“For 2024, there is a good chance for start of the year gains amid possible tail-end of the Santa Clause rally on Wall Street,” Ricafort said. Jenniffer B. Austria

MWF DONATION.

Manila Water Company Inc. president and chief executive and Manila Water Foundation president Jocot de Dios (left) welcomes officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and representatives of private sector partners at a partnership event to provide water access, sanitation and hygiene or WASH interventions to Palawan communities in need.

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2023

IMs Quizon, Garcia keep hold on PH chess lead INTERNATIONAL Masters Daniel Quizon and Jan Emmanuel Garcia pulled off contrasting results Thursday night to keep their stranglehold on the lead after three rounds of the Philippine National Chess Championships dubbed “Battle of the Grandmasters” at the Marikina Community Convention Center.

Quizon relied on his superior endgame technique in turning back Samson Chiu Chin Lim III in 64 moves of a Sicilian encounter while Garcia used the English Opening as a battering ram in dismantling Jerish John Velarde in 33 moves.

The pair of wins was the third straight for both Quizon and Garcia while building a one-point lead over the four-player group composed of Woman Grandmaster Janelle Mae Frayna, FIDE Masters Christian Gian Karlo Arca and Mark Jay Bacojo, and GM John Paul Gomez.

Arca, a 14-year-old prodigy whose biggest triumph to date was his World Youth blitz conquest in Italy a month ago, continued to make heads turn as he drew with Frayna in 30 moves of a Three Knights duel.

Bacojo, 17, likewise stole some of the spotlight after he held Olympiad veteran Paulo Bersamina to a 67-move standoff of in their rock-solid Slav showdown while Gomez contented himself with a 26-move split with GM Darwin Laylo of yet another Slav game.

The other results of the round saw battle-scarred IM Barlo Nadera walloping WIM Marie Antoinette San Diego in 61 moves of a Benoni and GM Joey Antonio getting held to a stunning 68move draw by Vince Angelo Medina of a Modern Defense.

Quizon and Garcia were eyeing to stay at the helm as they were battling Laylo and Nadera, respectively, in the fourth round at press time in this 13-round meet presented by Marikina City Mayor Marcy Teodro and Congresswoman Maan Teodoro.

Three slots to next year’s World Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary and the top purse worth P120,000 is being staked here courtesy of Marikina City, NCFP chairman president Prospero Pichay, Jr., POC president Abraham Tolentino, PSC chair Richard Bachmann, the Eugene Torre Chess Foundation, Pan de Amerikana’s Jundio Salvador.

Carlos Yulo, shown here holding the Philippine flag, will be training with new coach Tomoharu Sano next year.

New coach for Paris-bound Yulo O

By Peter Atencio

LYMPIAN and world champion Carlos Yulo, the country’s top gymnast, will start training under his new coach this January.

That’s when Japanese mentor Tomoharu Sano returns to the country to personally oversee Yulo’s preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

For now, Yulo is taking it easy and resting during the holiday season from a sprained ankle, which he sustained while training on his own at the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines elite facility in Intramuros, Manila.

“I want to move on,” said Yulo, who went separate ways with Japanese coach Munehiro Kugimiya, his trainer for seven years while in Tokyo.

The 23-year-old Yulo trained and competed with his former coach Aldrin Castaneda in his first major tournament without Kugimiya and missed the all-around final in the World Artistics Gymnastics Championships in

vault, along with a silver and a bronze at the Asian championships in Singapore last June.

Yulo also claimed two golds and two silvers at the Cambodia Southeast Asian Games last May. Under Kugimiya’s watch, Yulo has earned a total 17 gold medals in the seven years that he trained under the Japanese coach since 2016.

Sano, who is coming back to Manila in mid-January, used to be a member of the Japanese national team.

The 68-year-old Sano met with Gymnastics Association of the Philippines chief Cynthia Carrion and gymnastics officials when he briefly visited the country last October.

Ginebra Kings’ Thompson named week’s best player BARANGAY Ginebra is back in the thick of things for a Top 4 finish in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. And the comebacking Scottie Thompson has something to do with that.

Since returning from active duty after recovering from a swollen knee injury, the former MVP helped the team arrest a two-game skid with back-toback victories over Meralco and TNT. In the two games he played, Thompson averaged all-around numbers of 16.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 7.0 assists and emerged as Best Player of the Game each time.

The impact which he brought upon his Ginebra return made the 30-year-old Thompson as the last PBA Press CorpsPilipinas Live Player of the Week for the year 2023.

Terrence Romeo on account of his explosive Christmas Day performance for San Miguel, and Christian Standhardinger, who led the Ginebra locals in scoring and rebounding, crowded

PhilCycling national road championships set Feb. 5 to 9 THE PhilCycling National Championships for Road 2024 are set at an earlier schedule from February 5 to 9 with Tagaytay City as the main hub anew.

This was announced on Friday by PhilCycling president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, also president of the Philippine Olympic Committee.

The top 30 riders in the Men Elite, Under 23, Juniors and Youth categories in the 2023 nationals held last June will be seeded to next year’s races, while the women races will be open to all interested riders.

Also seeded in the five-day competitions again presented by Standard Insurance and the MVP Sports Foundation are the top 30 finishers in the recent Batang Pinoy-Philippine National Games which were staged earlier this month also in Tagaytay City and neighboring First and Third District of Batangas.

The PhilCycling has set a maximum participation of 90 riders in the individual road race (massed start) and 60 cyclists each in criterium and individual time trial in Men’s Elite, Under-23 and Juniors.

The entry list will be announced through PhilCycling’s Facebook page and social media platforms.

The women’s races in the event also supported by Tagaytay City, Chooks to Go and Excellent Noodles will be in individual road race, ITT and criterium for Elite, Under-23 and Juniors categories.

The Youth races will only cover criterium and ITT. The nationals will be raced over the routes used during the Batang Pinoy-PNG. The nationals is a major criterion for the selection of the national road cycling team.

Antwerp, Belgium, after he landed flat on his back twice.

But Yulo still grabbed a ticket to Paris Olympics when he became the highest-ranked eligible participant in the floor exercise.

He did not return to Japan afterwards and Yulo has since worked out at the Intramuros gym in Manila.

Filipino-American gymnast Aleah Finnegan had also qualified for the Paris Olympics, where he be joined

by Yulo, Asia’s no. 1 pole vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena and Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist Eumir Marcial.

Early this year, Yulo bagged gold medals in the parallel bars, floor exercise and

Scottie Thompson (right)

out Thompson for the weekly honor for the period Dec. 20 to 25.

Thompson immediately made his presence felt in his comeback game after a three-week absence, chipping 21 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists In a 110-96 against Meralco.

Then on Christmas Day, he delivered 12 points but bombed away two crucial three pointers down the stretch for an 86-78 come-from-behind win against the Tropang Giga. For good measure, he also had seven rebounds and seven assists.

The win clinched a quarterfinals berth for Ginebra, which caught up with San Miguel at fourth place with a 6-3 record, still good enough to have a shot at a twice-to-beat advantage in the playoffs.

“When Scottie came in, he changes everything,” admitted Meralco coach Luigi Trillo. “In the two games that they lost, he wasn’t there. So you can see the disparity in movement.”

Honda Philippines keeps form at Inside Racing Grand Prix HONDA Philippines, Inc. (HPI) recently participated in the 16th Inside Racing Grand Prix (IRGP), dubbed “IRGPXVI: LEGENDS ARE FOREVER!” last December 15 to 17 at the Tarlac Circuit Hill.

HPI’s participation in this event was part of the plan with the “Road to Champion” campaign for on-road sports to emphasize and expand its exposure in domestic eacing.

This year, HPI sponsored two of the country’s most promising motorcycle young racers, Jakob Sablaya, and Alfonsi Daquigan.

Sablaya, 18, represented Honda Project M Koby Racing Team, gaining podium finishes, 3rd place in MotoIR Grand Prix using the CBR150R, and 2nd place in Super Sports 300 Grand Prix using the CBR300R race bikes.

Meanwhile another racer, the 14-yearold Daquigan got the Pole Position Award for the MotoIR Grand Prix race category under the Sharp Honda SCK Philippines Racing Team using the CBR150R. Both riders had shown

their potential as a future international riders.

Despite fierce competition, Sablaya showed his competitors that he had what it takes to stand out by showing his skills in the Underbone Limited, finishing in 4th place, and in the Underbone Open race category, where he placed 7th using the Supra GTR150. ‘’We are very happy with the results and efforts of Sablaya and Daquigan, they are truly indicative of a job well done.

Honda is honored to support young riders who are achieving their dream of becoming champions,” said HPI president Sayaka Arai.

For more information, visit www.hondaph.com.

Stay updated on Honda’s newest products and promos by following Honda Philippines, Inc. on Facebook (facebook.com/hondaph) and Instagram (instagram.com/hondaph_mc/), YouTube (HondaPhilippines_Motorcycle) and Tiktok (tiktok.com/@hondaphilippines) or contact (02)-8581-6700 to 6799, and 0917-884-6632.

Jakob Sablaya

B3

AGRICULTURE

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2023

agriculture.manilastandard@gmail.com PATRICIA TACULAO-DELIGERO, Editor

An end-of-the-year call to aspiring farmers

By Yuan Thomas Corpuz

F

ARMING can be a daunting task for those who have no prior experience, even in gardening, where the care of plants is considered an already delicate process that requires a lot of time and effort.

Manuel Gurion Acosta is a retired civil engineer who now manages Ibit’s Farm and encourages others farmers to start their agricultural journey

Jay Cabutihan, an urban farmer from Rizal, took on the challenge to grow the world’s second-most expensive spice

Compared to gardening, farming allows people to be profitable rather than more leisure-focused. As the backbone of the agriculture industry, there are many things to consider when deciding to jump into farming for the first time.

Manuel Gurion Acosta, a retired civil engineer who owns Ibit’s Farm in La Union, seeks to help other farmers get a head start.

Given his civil engineering background, he had no experience beforehand. But, this did not stop him from learning about it through various workshops, training sessions, and seminars from the Department of Agriculture.

Such programs allow people to understand the basics of farming.

Acosta does not just teach farming — he specifically teaches organic farming, promoting sustainability. While organic farming can take longer to produce results, it is, by far, a better, healthier option for new farmers from the get-go.

Once new farmers have grasped the principles, it is time to discuss tools. There are a variety of efficient tools for farming, such as hoes and rakes. However, some farmers can get by even with simple sticks, like indigenous farmers.

Having the fanciest farming equipment can be nice, but simplicity in utility allows for sustainability. Some farming methods depend on environmental conditions, so new farmers should know which ones to utilize.

Then, the crop of choice comes next. Some

crops are in high demand and are very profitable, such as cacao. Japhet Tabale, owner of Cacao Prince, advises that farmers should consider their capital for farming their chosen crop and to learn about the upsides and downsides of the specific crop.

The crop of choice can benefit other farmers, just like what Rizal native Jay Cabutihan did with his vanilla farm. A highlysought spice, he took on the challenge of cultivating vanilla and has helped less fortunate farmers increase their income with just a tiny plot of land.

By sharing his knowledge with others, he effectively boosts the role of farming as a livelihood.

Japhet Tabale, also known as the Cacao Prince, found satisfaction Having deliberated on the and profit in growing cacao crop of choice, it is now up to the farmer to maintain their farm all year round. But agriculture isn’t just for annual profit, as it brings other benefits to the surrounding community. Self-sufficiency is one thing, allowing even remote communities to thrive despite limited access to outside resources.

Another Rizal native, Fernan Bejerano, is a volunteer with a strong desire to help AGRICULTURE Secretary Francisco Tiu his local community, so he has made it his Laurel, Jr. enjoined employees of the agency mission to promote agricultural tourism. He to stay focused on the goal of ensuring food stresses how farmers, in general, secure the security next year as the Philippines faces people’s future and implores other farmers to the challenge of El Niño and threats of work in solidarity to create a better quality of external price and supply shocks.

As he led the Department of Agriculture’s life for everyone else. annual Christmas celebration, his first as With all of these in mind, there is an head of the agency, Secretary Tiu Laurel opportunity for more Filipinos to get into expressed confidence that a united and farming. Capital or ample space may be determined DA could foster greater food challenging issues for newcomers, too. Still, production despite hurdles and limitations. farming benefits are tenfold and are sure to “We have a big mission next year—a very big mission. Lahat, ang buong bansa, deliver an experience worth pouring attention nakatingin sa atin (Every Filipino is into for more years to come.

DA Chief enjoins staff to ensure food security amid El Niño fears

Empowering farmers, cultivating change SM Foundation welcomes farmer-graduates

THE SM Foundation continues to work towards achieving its vision of a future where farmers are empowered, able to share knowledge with the community, and collectively work towards elevating the entire industry through agriculture.

As a testament to this, several farmers from Pampanga, Tarlac, Camarines Sur, and Albay completed SM Foundation’s Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (KSK) on Sustainable Agriculture Program.

Through the KSK program, farmers first underwent hands-on lectures, from modern farming methods to marketing and business principles, arming them with

updated agricultural knowledge and skills.

Capping weeks of learning sessions, the farmers held harvest festivals in their demo farms and joined market tours with SM Markets to explore selling opportunities.

Since 2007, the program has benefited over 28,000 marginalized farmers, with some graduates becoming seasonal suppliers for the SM group and local markets.

SM Foundation’s KSK-SAP is conducted in partnership with SM Supermalls, SM Markets, TESDA, DA, DSWD, DOST, DTI, and partner farm Some of the farmers from Legazpi, Albay, proudly showing the fruits of their labor schools. during the Harvest Festival

Eventually, the project aims to advance into a research hub for mushroom production

The P65-million project grant from MAFRA for ten greenhouses facilities addresses climate change concerns and introduces advanced agricultural practices

DA Western Visayas officially receives Korean-style smart greenhouse THE Department of Agriculture – Western Visayas (DA-WV) recently received the keys to the Smart Greenhouse and Capacity Building project, funded by the Ministry of Agriculture Food and Rural Affairs of the Republic of Korea (MAFRA).

The P65-million project grant from MAFRA for ten greenhouses facilities— six for mushrooms and four for tomato and paprika—addresses climate change concerns and introduces advanced agricultural practices, marking a significant milestone in the continuing collaboration between the Philippines and Korea.

This climate-proof facility project was launched on March 21, 2022 situated at a 3,000 sq.m. area at Western Visayas Integrated Research Center (WESVIARC) in Hamungaya, Jaro, Iloilo City. It

is managed by the Korea Agency of Education, Promotion and Information Service in Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (EPIS) and implemented by the Hankyong National University.

During the turnover ceremony held on Dec. 20, MAFRA Director General Yong Ho Jung expressed his appreciation to the Philippine government, the DA, EPIS, and the team from Hangkyong National University consortium for their instrumental role in the Smart Greenhouse project.

On the other hand, DA Assistant Secretary for Operations Arnel V. De Mesa said the turnover of the Smart Greenhouse project is more than the transfer of the infrastructure, it signifies a shared commitment to advancing farming practices, research, and technological

innovation in the country.

De Mesa also urged the stakeholders to remain advocates for equitable access to these innovations.

“The benefits of technology should reach every corner of our agricultural landscapes ensuring that no farmer is to be left behind. Our shared success today lays the foundation for an inclusive and thriving agricultural community,” De Mesa emphasized.

Two trainee-adopters from Badiangan, Iloilo—Ed Roderick Canuto of Ephrathah Farms and Revie Palmejar of Panudlak Farm shared their experiences, detailing the valuable insights gained from the project and illustrating how they successfully implemented the advanced technology in establishing their respective greenhouses.

Looking ahead, the project aims to advance into a research hub, delving into new high-valued commodities and seeking funding for solar energy in the mushroom greenhouse.

Innovative initiatives, such as a pick-and-pay system and the display of soon-to-be-harvested Shiitake fruiting bags in malls, are in the pipeline.

The facility will continue to host training sessions for interested stakeholders, fostering success stories like trainees establishing their greenhouses and applying newfound knowledge to farming practices. Additionally, the project welcomes research collaborations with academic institutions.

watching us),” said Tiu Laurel.

“Dahil nakatingin sa atin ang buong bansa, kailangan tayong mag-perform (And because the country’s attention is focused on us, we have to perform well.) Let’s perform and prove our critics wrong,” said the agriculture chief, seeking to boost the morale of DA employees.

“The new DA will work towards ‘more production and less cost.’ A vast majority of our countrymen, I am confident, want us to succeed, and we should not fail them,” he added.

Tiu Laurel sought everyone’s cooperation, underscoring the challenge before them in accomplishing President Marcos’ mandate to increase production to ensure food security and stabilize prices for the benefit of farmers and fishermen as well as consumers.

Food exporting nations like India imposed bans on rice and onion exports while others stockpiled food supplies in preparation for El Niño. The tighter supply of agricultural products had consequently driven commodity prices higher.

The Department of Science and Technology has warned of a strong El Niño event that could affect 65 of the 81 provinces

by May, with the possibility of moderate to severe drought—a condition where rainfall is below average for three consecutive months—hurting those areas.

A prolonged dry spell would adversely affect food production, especially waterdependent rice, the country’s food staple.

The Department of Agriculture, a member of the El Niño Task Force created by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. to mitigate the impact of the weather phenomenon, has started to implement initiatives to deal with the adverse effects of the expected drought by strengthening irrigation facilities, adopting alternative rice planting methods that require less water, animal dispersal, and providing alternative livelihood to farmers and fisherfolk.

“Together, we will overcome this challenge and emerge with flying colors,” Tiu Laurel told DA employees.

DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel

PROPERTY

B4

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2023

extrastory2000@gmail.com JOEL D. LACSAMANA, Editor

Damosa Land turns over homes for the holidays R EAL estate developer Damosa Land, recently announced the turnover of units to homeowners in Ameria, a township nestled within the Agriya community in Panabo, Davao del Norte.

With 177 units sold, Damosa Land aims to turn over one-third of Ameria’s units by the first quarter of 2024.

“Damosa Land is dedicated to creating havens where cherished memories are made, and what better time for this to come to fruition than during the Christmas season, said Ricardo “Cary” Lagdameo, president of Damosa Land Inc.

With agriculture at the core of the community, every homeowner is oriented with the basics in cultivating their “mini farm” that will yield fresh produce for their own consumption.

With other developments such as open parks, community garden patches expected, and landscaped setback from the main road, Ameria is shaping up to be the an attractive community in Panabo City, Davao del Norte.

Boosting business resilience at Parkway PARKWAY Corporate Center, a green office building just south of Metro Manila, is showing how flexible it can be to house various businesses, be it startups or business giants, with a number of payment schemes including opportunities for leasing or lease-to-own.

Prime example is Parkway’s 36-sqm unit office space which has a leasing price as low as P25,000 per month. Parkway also has the option for flexible and combinable units to fit the client’s size requirements, ranging from 36 to 252-sqm fit for multinational companies.

Upon compliance with payment terms, clients can enjoy an early move-in opportunity and an efficient lead time to start their operations.

The interior design preference of the client is also possible with Parkway’s delivery of unit condition in bare. “There’s no better time to set up your business office in Parkway Corporate Center than now,” said Catherine Ilagan, Filinvest Alabang Inc.’s president and COO. “With an address in Filinvest City, investors and business owners will experience the city’s upward trajectory where land values are only expected to appreciate over time.”

LIMA Estate honored in ESGBusiness Awards ABOITIZ InfraCapital’s LIMA Estate recently clinched the Smart City Award at the inaugural ESGBusiness Awards, held at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.

The accolade recognizes LIMA Estate’s efforts in integrating innovation with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into its smart city initiatives—driven by a strong commitment to transform Lipa-Malvar, Batangas into a thriving economic hub.

“We extend our thanks to ESGBusiness for recognizing our endeavors and our commitment to ESG. LIMA Estate has been actively working to propel Batangas onto the global stage as a green, smart, and workable city,” said Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, president of LIMA Land and

head of Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates.

LIMA Estate was previously recognized by PropertyGuru as the Best Green Development in Asia and awarded the first and only 5-Star BERDE (Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence) District Certification from the Philippine Green Building Council.

The certification is a local standard for assessing and certifying industrial estates’ environmental compliance.

With over 170 businesses, more than 4,000 households, a four-star hotel, and 167 retail outlets, LIMA Estate has driven economic development in the CALABARZON region, attracting investments totaling US$1.87 million, and generating jobs for over 66,000 Filipinos.

RLC closes year with international, local plums RLC Residences’ projects and initiatives did well as a developer this 2023, bagging a total of 39 accolades from local and international awardgiving bodies.

“We are humbled that all our projects and efforts are being recognized on such a large scale.

We share this success to everyone behind RLC Residences who have tirelessly worked to bring all these to life,” said John Richard Sotelo, senior

vice president and business unit general manager of RLC Residences, shown here with his management staff after bagging the Best Luxury Condo Development (Metro Manila) for The Residences at The Westin Manila, a luxury high-rise condo in Ortigas, at the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards.

Newly launched premium condominiums Le Pont Residences and Mantawi Residences are both recognized by DOT Property Awards

here in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia, receiving Best Luxury Condominium Development and Best High-End Lifestyle Condominium trophies, respectively.

The former also won Philippines and Southeast Asia’s Project of the Year, while the latter was awarded by Lamudi Philippines’ The Outlook 2023: Philippine Real Estate Awards as the Best Premium Condo - Visayas and Mindanao.

Guocoland is best developer (Asia), Indonesian developers bag most regional wins BANGKOK, Thailand—PropertyGuru Group last week announced the winners of the 18th Annual PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final, presented

by Kohler and supported by Dongpeng Ceramic and Subzero Wolf, at The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok.

GuocoLand won the biggest award of the year, Best Developer (Asia), for the third time in the history of the Awards. It marks one of five regional wins for developers from Singapore, with Frasers Property Singapore winning the Best Mixed Use Developer (Asia) award and UOL Group Limited and Pan Pacific Hotels Group winning the Best Hospitality Developer (Asia) award. UOL Group Limited also won the Best Sustainable Developer

(Asia) award while EL Development Pte Ltd won the Best Hospitality Interior Design (Asia) award.

Developers from Indonesia gained eight regional wins, the most of any country. PT Sinar Mitbana Mas garnered the Best Breakthrough Developer (Asia) title, with parent company Sinar Mas Land and subsidiary PT. BSD Diamond Development also receiving regional wins. Various projects by Agung Sedayu Group & Salim Group; Summarecon Agung; and Summarecon Serpong collected regional wins.

PH snags seven regional wins The Philippines was represented with seven regional wins, with Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates winning both the Best Industrial

Developer (Asia) and Best Industrial Development (Asia) awards. RLC Residences; Robinsons Hotels and Resorts; North Bonifacio Landmark Realty and Development Inc.; Shang Robinsons Properties, Inc.; and Sunshine Fort North Bonifacio Realty Development Corporation received golden statuettes for a wide range of projects.

Developers from Vietnam received six regional wins, led by SonKim Land Corporation, which won both the Best Luxury Developer (Asia) and Best Boutique Mixed Use Development (Asia) awards. Regional winners include ParkCity Group, which won the Best Completed Condo Development (Asia) award.

TECH & GADGETS

C1

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2023

YEAR-END SPECIAL ISSUE

advertise@manilastandard.net

Baguio Smart City

DIALING UP THE FUTURE

2023 telecom trends in review

By Patricia Taculao-Deligero

ODAY’s market poses new challenges and opportunities for telecommunications companies and their consumers.

T

In 2023, many brands introduced groundbreaking technology that made connectivity more accessible and efficient. As the year draws to a close, it’s time to look back at the innovations that shaped a whole year.

One notable development in 2023 was the 5G rollout. The latest evolution of wireless technology promises faster speeds, lower latency, and higher capacity compared to its predecessor, the 4G technology. End-users see this as a means for faster connection, allowing them to upload, download, and contact others faster. Yet there’s more to 5G than just fast connections.

Having 5G connections also promotes safety and security across various applications, from smart cities, government services, education, and healthcare, among other sectors. 5G technologies play a crucial role in creating smart cities as it effectively rolls out the Internet of Things, a network of physical devices interconnected with each other to exchange data.

Many smart cities across the Philippines rely on 5G to gather and send data throughout the system in real-time. One example is when CCTVs and other surveillance cameras can monitor the traffic throughout the city to notify the command center so authorities can resolve any issues promptly.

Telecommunications companies forged meaningful partnerships with Philippine municipalities to achieve their dreams of being a smart city. While some 5G applications gained popularity among users, there are other new services and applications expected for development as coverage becomes widespread.

Throughout 2023, many, if not all, telecommunications companies focused data and maintaining strong connections. Even their packages and programs for SIM and broadbands are more on

data because it helps users access the Internet faster and remain connected longer.

Another trend from telecommunications and technology industries that dominated 2023 is artificial intelligence (AI), which received mixed reactions from the public, with some resisting the change and others embracing it wholeheartedly.

The primary advantage of AI is eliminating human error by utilizing technological-based intelligence that can adapt to various styles or scenarios. Some examples where AI is prevalent is writing, image generation, and research, among other tasks.

Some AI programs learn from their previous tasks by analyzing complex sets of data and improve their performance without human assistance to help refine the programming.

While the basic AI programs are advantageous to everyday individuals, large companies have also begun exploring the uses of AI to streamline their operations.

Yet despite the numerous benefits of AI, it’s not without its disadvantages.

The leading cause of concern with the technology is that it threatens to take over jobs from humans.

However, most AI programs have yet to express emotion and creativity, which most users search for in their tasks.

On the other hand, AI-generated material isn’t often checked or filtered thoroughly, which could either be erroneous or harmful against privacy.

Deepfakes, where users can manipulate AI to put a person’s face on top of another to create a false image or video is a primary example that still scares and worries people today.

It goes without saying that AI has a long way to go before it reaches that level of intelligence that can mimic a human’s emotions and intelligence.

Moreover, there’s still room for im-

provement in AI to smooth out all the details from a single prompt.

Due to the immediate concerns that come with unfiltered and unchecked technology, many telecommunications providers developed cybersecurity options to protect their users’ data from getting breached.

Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting electronic information by mitigating risks and vulnerabilities.

In 2023, the whole country received a mandate to register their SIMs to its respective connection provider to keep it safe from scams and other threats.

This will also help the telecommunication companies to keep track of which numbers are still active and which belongs to who.

The most effective cybersecurity is using the Cloud to backup any data or information from a specific database.

Many significant companies and governments in the Philippines now rely on Cloud cybersecurity.

The technology requires tools, data, and infrastructure to protect applications and infrastructures from cyber predators.

It’s advisable to use these capabilities together to prevent attacks, manage user identities, and secure applications within institutions. Cloud storage often offers greater protection than most because it’s backed up regularly and stored off-site.

Cloud storage is also monitored 24/7 for suspicious activity.

Besides the fortified security measures and improved connections, 2023 was

another year of booming fintech and ecommerce services, further solidifying the advantages of using the internet and other technological advancements to acquire necessary products and services.

In the meantime, the fintech industry leveraged available resources and public demand to create the ideal services to educate people about financial literacy and give them opportunities to access accredited platforms.

For instance, major banks started financial platforms to enable accessibility for investments.

To further entice the public, the banks also changed the requirements to begin an investing journey so users from all walks of life can experience it.

Fintech companies also took the chance to provide services to everyday users across specific industries.

Still, the most significant trend or transformation that happened in 2023 was within the telecommunications companies’ themselves.

They shifted from being connectivity providers to becoming digital service providers. However, they need to remember to listen to their users frequently to determine how they can enrich their relationship with their customers better.

Only by learning to adapt to their consumers’ needs can the telecommunications industry can continue to thrive.

While all these technological trends helped in shaping the 2023 technological landscape for telecommunications industries, they also gave an emphasis on sustainability and lowering energy costs while providing the best services possible. It coincides with the international advocacy to promote sustainability in all ways possible.

Pope calls for global treaty to regulate AI

Pope Francis: In the quest for an absolute freedom, we risk falling into the spiral of a ‘technological dictatorship. AFP

VATICAN CITY—Pope Francis recently called for world leaders to adopt a global treaty on the use of artificial intelligence to ensure it is used in an ethical way.

The 86-year-old pontiff made the appeal in a six-page message published ahead of the Catholic Church’s World Day of Peace on January 1, which this year is focused on the theme of AI. While welcoming advances in science and technology that have reduced human suffering, Francis warned some discoveries have the effect of “placing in human hands a vast array of options, including some that may pose a risk to our survival and endanger our common home”.

He highlighted the dangers of using AI, including in disinformation and inter-

ference in elections, and also to make decisions—from social security payments to where to target weapons -- for which responsibility becomes blurred.

“In the quest for an absolute freedom, we risk falling into the spiral of a ‘technological dictatorship’,” he wrote.

He warned that those who design algorithms and digital technologies cannot be assumed to want to act “ethically and responsibly”.

Instead, he called for “binding international treaty” to regulate the development and use of AI, with the goal of preventing harm and sharing good practice.

“Technological developments that do not lead to an improvement in the quality of life of all humanity, but on the contrary aggravate inequalities and

conflicts, can never count as true progress,” he wrote.

Concerns about AI have increased since the chatbot ChatGPT, a massmarket gateway to generative AI, exploded onto the scene in late 2022.

The European Union is working on a broad law covering the sector, while Chinese legislation specifically regulating generative AI came into force in August this year.

US President Joe Biden also issued an executive order on AI safety standards in October.

Pope Francis himself has been the subject of several AI-generated images, including one that went viral, showing him wearing a huge white puffer coat with a large crucifix hanging over it. AFP

TECH & GADGETS

C2 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2023 advertise@manilastandard.net

YEAR-END SPECIAL ISSUE

The hottest gadgets

we’ll be obsessing over in 2024

By Paola Navarette

N

EW year means new gadgets, so get prepared for a year filled with cuttingedge technology. In 2024, you can look forward to a host of innovative gadgets poised to revolutionize the market.

From game-changing smartphones to aweinspiring VR headsets, these highly anticipated tech marvels are set to alter our lives, boosting productivity, and injecting a dose of fun into our future.

A win for foldables Guess what’s back—back again! Flip phones are cool again, and the latest OPPO Find N3 Flip is the coolest.

OPPO has once again raised the bar in the flip phone market with the new the N3 Flip.

Pace 3 Apple Vision Pro

OPPO Find N3 Flip

Packed with remarkable upgrades, it stands out with an industry-first triple camera system co-created with Hasselblad, meticulously crafted to capture photos that mirror your unique style.

Combine this with its intuitive vertical cover screen for swift photo checks and handy functionalities through increased app support, along with a powerhouse battery capacity that lasts long and the fastest charging on a flip today, and you’re set to shine whenever you bring out your flagship flip phone.

The future of phones is foldable. And in 2024, foldable phones are finally becoming more affordable and durable, transforming into tablets with a flick of your wrist.

Connected health Your smartwatch isn’t just for counting steps anymore. Much like Pace 3, a new fitness watch built for serious athletes who demand everything from their gear, such as a next-gen heart monitor, accurate SP02 sensors, and a dead-on barometric altimeter, this year, expect more advanced health-

Roborock S7 Max Ultra Robot Vacuum

Enriching Education: Xiaomi & World Vision Donate Smart Devices to Baseco High School Joining forces, Xiaomi and World Vision equip Baseco’s Grade 12 ICT students with a tech suite, including Xiaomi Smart Air Purifiers, Tablets, and Smart Television sets MANILA, Philippines— Xiaomi and World Vision recently donated smart devices to a high school in Baseco, Manila, as part of their annual initiative of ensuring Grade 12 ICT students have access to cutting-edge resources. The donation comprised 24 Xiaomi Smart Air Purifiers 4, 10 Xiaomi Pad 6, and 6 Xiaomi TV A Pro Series 55-inch, each chosen to enrich the learning experience of the beneficiaries.

The donation drive is part of Xiaomi’s Education Program, which aims to enhance students’ skills and give them the resources to prepare them for the challenges of the 21st century.

Through this program, Xiaomi offers workshops and campus tours to immerse students in photography and gaming. The program also equips them with the tools they need for success, such as smartphones, laptops, and other smart devices.

Xiaomi believes education is key to empowering the youth and improving their quality of life. By supporting the students in Baseco each year, Xiaomi hopes to inspire them to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential.

tracking sensors in wearables that will help you unlock secrets of your body and lifestyle.

All packed into a lightweight, low-profile designed to run for weeks, the new wave of smartwatches and fitness trackers will likely showcase features such as blood glucose monitoring for diabetics and even integration with augmented reality (AR) platforms.

Think of it as having a doctor and wellness coach in one on your wrist.

Immersive Extended Reality We now have more AR capabilities on our devices—particularly our phones and tablets. This time, we’re seeing an even bigger push toward virtual reality (VR), which is also expected to make leaps forward with new standalone units that eliminate the need for external computers or consoles, providing more immersive and accessible VR experiences.

Well, you may not own special glasses like Cyclops’ cyber glasses, but Apple’s upcoming Vision Pro is the next best thing.

Setting the stage for a launch by February

next year, this mixed-reality headset seamlessly blends digital content with the physical world and captures the full attention of your eye, and so you are, by definition, immersed in a virtual environment.

A smarter home Seamless integration between devices and advanced home security systems that learn and adapt to your household routines will make your life easier and more comfortable.

The coming year heralds a trend of multifunctional tech, where innovation takes center stage. Hybrid products, merging various gadgets into one, are set to make a significant impact.

Take for instance the Roborock S7 Max Ultra Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo, a robot vacuum that does more than you can expect.

It hoovers up dirt, dust, pet hair, liquids, and more, then auto-mops your floors to boot. It’ll even self-empty and self-refill, so you almost literally never have to lift a finger.

PLDT and Smart Communications Director, President, and CEO Alfredo S. Panlilio and Zone V Camera Club President Angela Panlilio with beneficiaries of the Virlanie Foundation

Learning Hub equips QC community with free Internet access, digital tools A gift of smart devices for Baseco students. Xiaomi and World Vision partnered to donate air purifiers, tablets, and TVs to a high school in Baseco, a coastal community in Manila. The devices will benefit hundreds of Grade 12 ICT students and their teachers.

A happy moment for Baseco students. Senior high school students in Baseco, Port Area, Manila, pose with their teachers, staff, and the representatives of Xiaomi and World Vision. The companies showed their support and generosity by donating smart devices and other items to the school to help improve the students and the community’s learning and living conditions.

Smart devices for a brighter future. Tomi Adrias, head of marketing of Xiaomi Philippines, who donated smart devices to their school. The devices, such as air purifiers, tablets, and TVs, will help the students and their teachers in their Grade 12 ICT curriculum.

“We at Xiaomi advocate for making a positive impact on society through technological advancements worldwide. We hope that through our tools, students will be even more inspired to learn and build hopeful dreams for themselves and their community,” said Tomi Adrias, Head of Marketing at Xiaomi Philippines.

Xiaomi is also actively promoting excellence in education through digital masterclasses. The company recently collaborated with San Beda University, where it conducted a photography workshop and campus tour for students. The participants learned advanced digital photography and gaming skills using the Redmi Note 12 Series, Xiaomi’s latest smartphone offering.

IN line with its commitment to make digital services accessible for Filipinos and to help uplift lives across the country, PLDT Home, together with Zone V Camera Club and the Virlanie Foundation, launched The Learning Hub in Barangay Bagong Silangan, Quezon City.

This initiative aims to empower Filipino students and their communities through reliable broadband internet connectivity, linking them with the rest of the world, and providing much-needed access to quality learning resources.

The Learning Hub seeks to provide Filipino children with a free-to-use learning space, powered by fast internet connection from PLDT Home and learning tools such as computers with digital applications.

This initiative was likewise designed to unlock livelihood opportunities to benefit low-income families, while also offering communities with a safe entertainment hub.

“PLDT has long been committed to building a digitally-inclusive Philippines where communities are empowered through technology. Connectivity has become a human right, and we believe in the project’s goal of helping provide quality education to ensure that no learner is left behind,” said PLDT and Smart Communications Director, President, and CEO Alfredo S. Panlilio.

“We want kids in these communities to have access to the internet’s global databank and create a learning hub.”

“Witnessing the transformative impact that The Learning Hub will have on our beneficiary communities will be amazing.

The potential for a graduating student to positively influence their family’s life is pro-

The Learning Hub at Brgy. Bagong Silangan, Quezon City

found, and we are honored to be part of such meaningful change,” said Angela Panlilio, President of the Zone V Camera Club which donated the gadgets for communities to use.

“The Learning Hub is a very helpful program, and it fits our foundation’s goals of providing quality education to children,” said Arlene Fernandez, Executive Director of Virlanie Foundation, an organization that provides a safe space for children of abuse.

The Learning Hub also aims to become a sustainable initiative, aligning the PLDT Group with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) by boosting the country’s overall digital inclusivity. It likewise supports PLDT and Smart’s continuing contributions to the UN SDGs – particularly SDG 1: No Poverty and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – and reinforces the Group’s broader goal to promote technologies that foster educational and livelihood opportunities.

TECH & GADGETS

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YEAR-END SPECIAL ISSUE

Google brings generative AI experiences to Search in PH

AST November 9, Google rolled out the Search Generative Experience (“SGE”) in the Philippines as an optin experiment in Search Labs. This AI-powered experience is available in English.

L

With new breakthroughs in generative AI, Google is reimagining what a search engine can do and is bringing these powerful new capabilities to Search in a bold and responsible way.

This powerful new technology can unlock entirely new types of questions that Search could not previously answer, and transforms the way information is organized in Search to help people sort through and make sense of what’s out there.

Improving Search with generative AI With SGE’s generative AI capabilities in Google Search, people will see an AI-powered overview of key information to consider, with links to dig deeper. For anyone who has ever been overwhelmed by the amount of information online, this will help find answers faster.

For instance, with a question like “What are the most popular coffee beans in the world?” Normally, you might break this question down into smaller ones, sort through the vast amount of information available, and then start to piece things together yourself. With generative AI, Search can do some of that heavy lifting.

SGE first delivers an overview, beneath this, users will see suggested next steps where they can simply tap

Generative AI on Google Search

a query like “Can you roast coffee beans at home?”, or type in a specific follow-up question. This conversational mode enables people to intuitively learn more about the topic they’re exploring.

Context will be carried over from question to question, to help people more naturally continue their exploration.

Featuring a wide range of voices and sources Hearing insights from others is al-

ways useful when making decisions, so Google has designed these new experiences to highlight and drive attention to content on the web. This makes it easy for people to dive deeper on the topic they’re learning about.

As generative AI makes its way into Search, Google is committed to continue sending valuable traffic to sites across the web.

Ads are a vital piece of how the web works, and help people find rel-

Pictured (from left) are Lora Valdez Porras, Damosa Land Inc. AVP for Commercial and Leasing Operations, Cary F. Lagdameo, Damosa Land Inc. President, Jay C. Lagdameo, PLDT Enterprise Vice President and Enterprise Revenue Group Head, and Kent de la Calzada, PLDT Enterprise AVP & VisMin Head of Customer Relationship Management officially sign off the partnership between Damosa Land Inc. and PLDT Enterprise.

Damosa Land, PLDT Enterprise power a vision of progress together through digital solutions DAMOSA Land Inc. (DLI) partners with PLDT Enterprise, shifting from US-based bandwidth to enjoy costefficient, stable, and scalable local connectivity solutions.

With PLDT Enterprise as their primary connectivity provider for both Davao and Cagayan de Oro locations, DLI now benefits from iGate Premium’s delay-sensitive stability and SIP’s streamlined voice trunking.

A testament to PLDT Enterprise’s vision and commitment to providing unparalleled service with 24/7 Enterprise Service Assurance, this collaboration ensures DLI’s office workspace clients stay seamlessly connected.

Through the partnership, PLDT Enterprise’s iGate Premium was able to provide DLI a more cost efficient, stable and scalable connectivity with delay-sensitivity, while the SIP, with its feature to operate voice trunking via IP, maximized the IP network, reducing cost and communications complexities.

With a trusted client like DLI at the forefront of sustainable real estate property development that provides distinctive elements that enhances living experience, creating self-sufficient socioeconomic zones, and building contemporary and innovative workspaces that espouse collaboration and build meaningful connections in Davao

and Mindanao Region, PLDT Enterprise, led by Vice President and Enterprise Revenue Group Head Jay C. Lagdameo, customized the tools and services to support the developer’s specific needs, and bring out their vision to futureproof their company.

Cary F. Lagdameo, President of Damosa Land Inc., has cemented DLI as the leading sustainable real estate developer in Mindanao, as it remains committed to creating innovative and top-quality projects, known for incorporating distinctive elements into their residences to enhance their clients’ living experience, including dedicated spaces for urban farming, breathtaking vistas, and a plethora of options to meet their basic needs.

Having developed an estate and depot that have garnered multiple accolades for industrial development and innovation and staying committed to meet the demands of the continuously expanding market, DLI partnered with PLDT Enterprise to boost operational efficiency so they may better compete and succeed in the growing industry.

With partners like PLDT Enterprise, DLI’s contemporary and innovative workspaces continue to spur economic productivity and business growth, as their locators maximize to espouse collaboration and build meaningful connections.

evant products and services. In this new generative experience, Search ads will continue to appear in dedicated ad slots throughout the page.

Google will continue to uphold its commitment to ads transparency and making sure ads are distinguishable from organic search results. When Search ads do appear, they will continue to feature their industry-leading clear and transparent ad labels with the “Sponsored” label in bold black text.

Taking a responsible approach Google is taking a responsible and deliberate approach to bringing new generative AI capabilities to Search.

We have trained the models used in SGE to uphold Search’s high bar for quality, which will continue to improve over time.

These hallmark systems have been fine-tuned for decades, but will also have additional guardrails, like limiting the types of queries where generative AI capabilities will appear.

Google Philippines and South Asia Frontier Markets Country Marketing Manager Gabby Roxas, said, “With new generative AI capabilities in Search, we’re now taking more of the work out of searching. We’re imagining a supercharged Search that does the heavy lifting for you so you’ll be able to understand a topic faster, uncover new viewpoints and insights, and get things done more easily. The Search Generative Experience is the first step we’re taking in this journey, and part of our vision to make Search radically more helpful. We’re excited to bring this to India, and look forward to receiving feedback and iterating on the experience alongside our users over the next few months.”

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TECH & GADGETS YEAR-END SPECIAL ISSUE

DR. JOSE RIZAL

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127TH MART YRDOM SPECIAL ISSUE

Rizal’s light: Illuminating education in the Philippines

By Patricia Taculao-Deligero

J

OSE Rizal is a beacon of hope and inspiration in the Philippines. As the national hero, his legacy has influenced Filipinos to embrace freedom and sovereignty.

Rizal regarded education highly.

His studies began under the tutelage of Doña Teodora, his mother. Rizal then learned from private tutors before proceeding to Biñan to further his studies. Rizal attended Ateneo in 1872 and although was regarded as inferior in class, he graduated on March 23, 1877, attaining sobresaliente or excellent marks with five medals.

From 1887 to 1882, Rizal attended the University of Santo Tomas and pursued various studies, including Cosmology, Metaphysics, Theodicy, and History of Philosophy. In the following term, he took up preparatory courses for Medicine.

Rizal’s pursuit of knowledge brought him to Spain to study at the Universidad Central de Madrid, where took up two courses: Philoso-

Illustration courtesy of The Life and Works of Rizal - GE9-H Facebook page phy and Letters, and Medicine.

He later traveled around Europe to specialize in ophthalmology with the goal to help his mother’s failing eyesight.

From early in his life until his last moments, he sought to learn and teach others any new information he could.

He believed that education is a powerful instrument to empower people and

improve societies holistically. Moreover, through education, Rizal thought that Filipinos could gain the knowledge and skills necessary to take control of their destinies and overcome colonial oppression.

In his many letters written to his friend, Ferdinand Blumentritt, Rizal often mentioned how education can be the catalyst for change that the Philippines

needs to become self-sufficient and progressive and how every Filipino must have the right to access quality education.

Some of Rizal’s significant contributions in education occurred during his exile in Dapitan. It was there he began exciting the youth’s national consciousness through community service.

He implemented a “hands-on” school

program that benefitted sixteen high school boys who lived near him.

Aside from earning a living from apprenticing in Rizal’s medical clinic, horticulture, and livestock farm, the students received free academic lessons in the afternoon. Rizal also took them on field trips and taught physical activities because he believes in the saying “sound body, sound mind.”

Besides the children, Rizal also taught Dapitan folks about applied engineering to improve street infrastructures and designs. He even drained marshes to minimize the malaria threat in the area.

It was also Rizal who opened opportunities for Dapitan residents to engage in the fishing industry and entrepreneurship. He trained the local fishermen after his request for a big net for trawl fishing from his brotherin-law, Manuel Hidalgo, arrived.

Meanwhile, Rizal also promoted the establishment of a farmers’ cooperative in Dapitan, managed by the people themselves, to improve local farm products, promote cooperative marketing, and protect its members.

The Philippines’ educational landscape today wouldn’t be the same without Rizal’s passion for learning and patriotism. He fought for the right to education and used the pen’s might to create masterpieces, like Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, that would remain relevant centuries later.

Filipino heroes of Chinese heritage

By Grace E. Castillo and Clarissa Sultan Mediavillo

I

N the long protracted history of Philippine struggle against colonial rule, woven with threads of courage, sacrifice, and resilience, there emerges a distinct and often unfortunately overlooked pattern - the important presence and contributions of Filipino heroes of Chinese heritage. These champions of freedom and progress came from an ethnic minority which has for many centuries lived and traded in the Philippines since the precolonial era.

As we commemorate the martyrdom of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal (himself a patrilineal descendant of the Cua family due to his immigrant ancestor Domingo Lamco, whose Chinese name was Cua YiLam), let us unravel the stories of other unsung heroes of Chinese lineage who stood valiantly in the fight for Philippine freedom and progress.

Here are only some of the many Filipino heroes of Chinese heritage: 1. GENERAL JOSE IGNACIO PAUA—A first-generation Chinese immigrant from the county of Nan-an, Quanzhou City, Fujian province, he exemplified the spirit of selfdetermination and public service. His journey from blacksmith entrepreneur in Manila to military general of the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonizers and then the American colonial invaders from the 1890s to 1900s mirrors the transformative power of dedication to a cause larger than oneself.

General Paua not only forged armaments for the Filipino revolutionaries but also orchestrated successful fundraising campaigns among his fellow Hokkien-speaking ethnic Chinese traders, artisans and professionals in different regions. In doing so, he became a unique beacon, perhaps the only first-generation immigrant worldwide to rise to the rank of a military general in his adopted homeland.

2. ROMAN TANBENSIANG ONGPIN— A 19th-century entrepreneur and civic leader and son of successful Chinese immigrant trader Simon Ongpin (Chinese name “Ong Yak Pin” from ChingMeng Village, Jinjiang, Quanzhou City, Fujian province), Roman Ongpin etched

General Jose Ignacio Paua

Roman Tanbensiang Ongpin Wenceslao ‘Bintao’ Vinzons

General Vicente Lim

St. Lorenzo Ruiz

his name in history by sacrificing personal safety and social status to support the Philippine Revolution.

Enduring persecution and imprisonment, Ongpin became a symbol of resilience and commitment. His legacy lives on in the streets of Binondo, where Calle Sacristia had been renamed in his honor, and the Ong clan association had donated a monument which stands testament to his unwavering dedication. His descendants also contributed to Philippine progress —the late billionaire tycoon Roberto Ongpin who was Trade and Industry Minister of President Ferdinand E. Marcos and 1986 Edsa Revolution stalwart Jaime Ongpin who became Finance Secretary of

the revolutionary government of Chinese mestiza President Corazon “Cory” Cojuangco Aquino.

3. GENERAL VICENTE LIM—The son of a Chinese immigrant turned self-made entrepreneur, General Vicente Lim embodied the pursuit of excellence and unswerving service to his country.

As the first Filipino soldier to graduate from the prestigious West Point military academy, Lim rose to the rank of a military general. In the face of Japanese military invasion during World War II, he fought valiantly, enduring imprisonment and ultimately sacrificing his life. General Vicente Lim stands as a beacon of heroism and moral courage.

His story has become an integral part of the Philippines’ struggle for freedom.

4. ST. LORENZO RUIZ—He was the first Filipino Roman Catholic saint, son of a Chinese immigrant and baptized in historic Binondo Church. His life epitomized courage and faith, culminating in martyrdom for his beliefs.

5. WENCESLAO “BINTAO” VINZONS —He was a legendary Bicol hero and fearless World War II martyr, who led the resistance against Japanese military occupation and was executed by the invaders. Vinzons ably led Filipino guerrillas who killed 3,000 Japanese soldiers in the Bicol region. The hero’s grandfather was anti-Qing Dynasty Chineselanguage newspaper “Kong Li Po” editor Serafin Vinzons (Chinese name “Sia Hui Tam”) and his father was Gabino Vinzons (Chinese name “Sia Din Long”).

Vinzons’ legacy lives on at the University of the Philippines where a building bears his name. He became president of the UP Student Council and editor-in-chief of the college newspaper “Philippine Collegian.” He was also youngest delegate elected to the 1935 Philippine Constitutional Convention.

These are just some of the many Filipino heroes of Chinese heritage -- along with countless nameless traders, artisans and other ordinary members of the Filipino Chinese community —who have contributed immeasurably to the economic modernization, cultural development and social progress of the Philippines. As we honor the patriotism of Dr. Jose Rizal, let us also pay tribute to these remarkable heroes, acknowledging their pivotal role in shaping the destiny of a nation.

DR. JOSE RIZAL

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FFCCCII’s enduring legacy: Honoring Rizal’s martyrdom through education A

By Peter Paul Duran

s the nation commemorates the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal, the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) stands tall not just in remembrance but in its unwavering commitment to championing education, echoing the same values Rizal held dear.

At the heart of FFCCCII’s endeavors lies “Operation: Barrio Schools,” a pioneering initiative mirroring Rizal’s belief in the power of education.

Operation: Barrio Schools, a remarkable testament to FFCCCII’s dedication, stands as the Philippines’ largest private-sector-driven school construction program. Addressing the pressing classroom shortage across the nation, this initiative involves constructing two-classroom buildings in public schools throughout all regions.

These constructions are made possible through donations from FFCCCII members and the generosity of benevolent organizations, families, and individuals within the Chinese-Filipino community.

From the inception of Operation: Barrio Schools in 1961 during President Carlos P. Garcia’s tenure, it has been an unwavering beacon of hope, fostering education and amplifying healthcare access across the nation. Over the years, this initiative gained momentum, reaching an incredible feat of constructing 5,986 school buildings by January 2021, equating to a remarkable 11,972 classrooms.

The impact of this monumental effort resonates across the archipelago, with regions benefitting from these educational structures: Region I - 517 school buildings spanning Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan.

Region II - 426 school buildings in Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, and Quirino.

Region III - 949 school buildings encompassing Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, and Zambales.

Region IV-A - 757 school buildings in Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, and Rizal.

Region IV-B - 240 school buildings in Marinduque, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Romblon, and Palawan.

Completing the list: Region V - 384 school buildings Region VI - 584 school buildings Region VII - 371 school buildings Region VIII - 516 school buildings Region IX - 122 school buildings Region X - 299 school buildings Region XI - 123 school buildings Region XII - 174 school buildings BARMM - 97 school buildings NCR - 337 school buildings CAR - 53 school buildings CARAGA - 80 school buildings Celebrating Rizal Day, the legacy of Operation: Barrio Schools echoes Rizal’s commitment to education and progress. From the Cordilleras to the National Capital Region, and across the scenic coasts of Bicol to the vibrant shores of Mindanao, this initiative continues to embody the essence of Rizal’s vision for a brighter, more educated Philippines.

FFCCCII’s unwavering commitment to education mirrors Rizal’s advocacy for knowledge as the catalyst for national progress. Through Operation: Barrio Schools, the organization not only erects physical structures but also builds bridges to a brighter, more empowered future for Filipino youth.

File photos from www.ffcccii.org

Tracing Chinese contributions in Philippine history

El Parián, mercado de Manila in 1792 by Juan Ravenet. Parian was a ghetto where persecuted Chinese traders and artisans lived and thrived in the Philippines

By Mary Rose Servidad and Melanie Gornez Purigay DR. JOSE Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, stands as an icon of intellectual brilliance, patriotism, and resilience. Beyond his indelible mark on the nation’s history, Rizal’s Chinese immigrant ancestral roots unveil a remarkable tale of perseverance, economic success, and cultural contributions. In particular, his Chinese immigrant ancestor, Domingo Lamco, represents a narrative of triumph over adversity that echoes the broader contributions of the Chinese community to the Philippines.

Domingo Lamco: A Beacon of Resilience Domingo Lamco, also known by his Chinese name Cua Yi-Lam (“Ke Yi-Nan” in Mandarin), was a trailblazer in the face of oppressive Spanish colonial conditions. Born in the village of Zhangguo (“Siongque” in Hokkien) in Jinjiang County (now a city), Quanzhou City, Fujian province, Lamco navigated the tumultuous era of Spanish colonization. Segregated in the Parian ghetto along with other Chinese traders and artisans, Lamco overcame hardships and persecution.

Overcoming adversity, Lamco was a “rags-to-riches” entrepreneur and later moved to Laguna province to become the founder of the high-

Yong is the Chinese word for courage or valiant

educated, esteemed Mercado family.

The adoption of the Spanish surname “Mercado” was one way the immigrant hoped to escape persecution of his family members in their business and professional dealings, testament to his resilience and vision for his descendants. The Mercado family would later play a significant role in shaping the economic, cultural, and social fabric of the Philippines.

Chinese Contributions to Philippine Development Across many centuries of peaceful trading in the Philippines, the broader Chinese community---of which Domingo Lamco was an integral part, has always played a positive and pivotal role in the Filipino nation’s development through the generations.

From pioneering economic endeavors to generous yet low-key philanthropy, the manifold contributions of Chinese

immigrants and their descendants have immeasurably enriched Philippine life and society.

Economic Prosperity The resilient and diligent Chinese immigrants, like Domingo Lamco, engaged in trade and diverse professions, contributing to the economic vibrancy of the Philippine archipelago. Their entrepreneurial spirit laid the foundation for flourishing consumer markets and economic growth.

Cultural Integration The Chinese community seamlessly integrated its rich cultural heritage with the diverse tapestry of Philippine culture, from family and social customs, Hokkien or south Fujian province language (exactly similar to Taiwanese language of Taiwan island) to foods and farming traditions. This fusion

Turn D4

Qing Dynasty era junk sailboat used by traders and migrants like Dr. Jose Rizal’s ancestor, Domingo Lamcoancestor Domingo Lamco

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DR. JOSE RIZAL 127TH MART YRDOM SPECIAL ISSUE

Tracing...

From D2

A Philippine stamp released in 2000 honors Quanzhou City in Fujian province in China —the roots of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal.

Image shows one of the ancient East West Pagodas of Quanzhou

of Chinese influences into the emerging and evolving Filipino national culture is evident in various aspects of daily life.

Philanthropic Endeavors Over the centuries, Filipino Chinese individuals and organizations, such as the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) with 170 Filipino Chinese chambers of commerce nationwide from Aparri to Tawi Tawi, have been at the forefront of philanthropy and diverse charities. Their financial and logistical contributions to education, healthcare, arts and culture, religious faith and social welfare showcase a commitment to Philippine nationbuilding.

Jose Rizal: A Testament to Chinese Influence As a Chinese mestizo, Jose Rizal epitomized the fusion of Filipino and Chinese cultures, reflecting the shared history of the two communities. Rizal’s advocacy for socio-economic and political reforms resonated with the ideals that many Chinese mestizos and the ethnic Chinese at that time in the Philippines embraced during the colonial era.

The legacy of Rizal and his Chinese forebear, Domingo Lamco, serves as a testament to the enduring positive impact of Chinese influence on the Philippines.

This influence transcends beyond trade and economic modernization of Philippine life, encompassing rich cultural exchange, resilience in the face of adversity, and a shared commitment to nation-building.

Carlos ‘Botong’ Francisco’s 1960 painting of The Execution of Dr. Jose Rizal is part of the collection of Museo ni Jose Rizal in historic Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila

In commemorating Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippines pays homage not only to a great and inspiring national hero but also to the intricate threads of positive Chinese influence woven into the national cultural and historical fabric.

Domingo Lamco’s journey from a segregated ghetto trader to the founder of a distinguished “ilustrado” Filipino family underscores the resilience and contributions of the Chinese community.

As the Philippines embraces its multicultural and democratic identity, the intertwined stories of Rizal and his Chinese immigrant forebear Domingo Lamco stand as a symbol of unity in cultural diversity, forging a path toward a shared and progressive Philippine future.

Representatives of the Philippine Consulate General in Xiamen City, China laid a flower wreath at the 18.61-meter high Rizal Monument in Zhangguo Village, in Jinjiang City, Fujian province on Dec. 30, 2021.