Manila Standard - 2024 January 3 - Wednesday

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Japan quake toll at 48 and rising Marcos, AFP offer aid; 35 Pinoys evacuated but none hurt

J

APANESE rescuers battled the clock and powerful aftershocks Tuesday to find survivors of a New Year’s Day earthquake that killed at least 48 people and caused widespread destruction.

JAL plane catches fire, The 7.5 magnitude quake that rattled Ishikawa prefecture on the main 367 passengers saved island of Honshu triggered tsunami NEWS / A2 waves more than a meter high, toppled houses, caused a major fire, and tore Japanese government to secure Filipinos’ apart roads.

In Manila, President Marcos said the safety following the massive earthquake government is working closely with the Next page

VOL. XXXVII • NO. 322 • 2 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2024

WORST OF QUAKE. Aerial photos

provided by Jiji Press show the various damages in Wajima, Ishikawa prefecture in Japan on Jan. 2 following the major 7.5 magnitude earthquake that struck the Noto region -- a fallen seven-storey building (main photo), smoke rising from an area following a large fire, and damaged houses, including one totally collapsed (inset photos). Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (below left), wearing an emergency disaster uniform, then arrives at his office in Tokyo to lead recovery efforts. AFP

Manibela threatens wider strike PH eyes money laundering ‘grey list’ exit this month next week amid PUVMP problems

By Charles Dantes

By Rio N. Araja and Darwin Amojelar THE transport group Manibela is set to stage an even wider strike next week after the government extended the deadline for public utility vehicle (PUV) consolidation until Jan. 31.

“We will go on strike, along with the other sectors, next week. Wala nang uwian ito hangga’t hindi binabawi ng pamahalaan ang plano nito (We will not return to our homes until the government withdraws its plan),” Manibela president Mar Valbuena said.

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THE Philippines aims to exit the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) grey list this month, the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) said yesterday.

The grey list consists of countries that are actively working with the FATF to address the strategic deficiencies in their regimes to counter money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing.

“The aim of the government is to exit the gray list by January 2024,” said AMLC Executive Director Matthew David in a Palace briefing.

“The President reiterated the government’s high-level political commitment and directed all government agencies concerned to strictly address

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DEFIANT. Jeepney drivers and operators under the group PISTON continue their protest against the PUV modernization program at their terminal in Pasig City, two days after the Dec. 31 deadline for consolidation had passed. Manny Palmero

1 dead from stray bullet, another from firecracker as injuries jump

By Macon Ramos-Araneta ONE person died from a stray bullet while another died in a firecrackerrelated accident, the Department of Health (DOH) said Tuesday.

Moreover, one person became blind while two others became deaf because of illegal firecrackers, it said.

The department also reported six new amputation cases, bringing their total to 17.

It provided no details on the person blinded but said the case brought to 122 the number of eye injuries from firecracker-related incidents.

The first death from firecrackers

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‘GREY LIST’ GAB. President Marcos (seated, third from left) presides over the sectoral meeting on the status of the Philippines in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list on Tuesday at the State Dining Hall of Malacañang Palace. PCO Photo

Gov’t wants more people on Lifeline Rate Program dizes power rates for poor households.

The director of the Electric Power So far, only about 4 percent—or Industry Management Bureau of the THE government is looking for ways to 191,399 people--of the targeted 4.2 mil- Department of Energy (DOE), Luningget more consumers to sign up for its lion poor Filipinos have registered to ning Baltazar, said one reason there are Lifeline Rate Program, which subsi- gain benefits from the program.

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By Alena Mae S. Flores

January may have one or no storms, says PAGASA ONLY one tropical cyclone or possibly even none at all will enter the Philippine area of responsibility this month amid the prevailing El Niño, the state weather bureau said.

At least two to five tropical cyclones The bureau yesterday released the are expected to enter PAR during the names of typhoons that will enter first half of the year, the Philippine PAR this year: Aghon, Butchoy, CaAtmospheric Geophysical and Astro- rina, Dindo, Enteng, Ferdie, Gener, nomical Services (PAGASA) said.

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NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2024

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Rep. Tulfo tops OCTA Senate poll A

CT-CIS party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo again emerged as the top pick for the senatorial race in the 2025 midterm elections, a survey conducted by the OCTA Research group showed.

jomar Binay (25 percent); and Senator Manuel Lapid (20 percent).

Other possible candidates in the list were Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. with 19 percent; former Senator Gringo Honasan II, Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, and Willie Revillame with 18 percent each; and former vice presidential candidate Willie Ong and former Vice President Leni Robredo with 17 percent each.

The survey was conducted among 1,200 respondents and has a ±3 margin of error.

In a separate fourth quarter survey conducted by PUBLiCUS Asia Inc., former President Rodrigo Duterte was the top-of-mind candidate for senator for the midterm elections.

With a margin of error of +/- 3 percent, Duterte was statistically tied in terms of voting predisposition with Tulfo (44 percent) and Ong (43 percent).

The former President earlier warned he would be compelled to come out of retirement and run for senator if his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, is impeached.

The younger Duterte was criticized for her past use of confidential funds and her request for P650 million under the 2024 national budget, which she later withdrew.

“If you do that, I’ll return to politics.

I will be forced to,” the 78-year-old Duterte patriarch said. “It’s either I will run for senator or I will run for vice president even if I’m old.”

At least three in four or 76 percent of Filipino adults said they would vote for Tulfo for senator if the elections were held during the survey period from Dec. 10 to Dec. 14, results of OCTA’s Tugon ng Masa National Survey showed.

The number was even higher than the 60 percent score that Tulfo got in OCTA’s October 2023 survey.

Senator Christopher Go placed second with 53 percent followed by former Senate President Vicente Sotto III with

48 percent and Senator Ronald dela Rosa with 47 percent.

Senator Imee Marcos got a voting preference of 42 percent, followed by Senator Ramon Revilla with 35 percent.

Rounding up the list were Senator Francis Tolentino (33 percent); former Manila mayor Isko Moreno and former Senator Panfilo Lacson with 32 percent each; Senator Pia Cayetano (30 percent); former Senator Manny Pacquiao (28 percent); former Vice President Je-

Manibela...

From A1

Japan Airlines plane on fire on Haneda runway

He said he has already discussed the strike, which will commence either Jan. 8 or 10 from UP Diliman in Quezon City to Mendiola in Manila, with transport group PISTON. Manibela also warned of possible trouble with other drivers and operators if the government grants special permits to consolidated transport groups to ply routes outside their franchises that would see a shortage of PUVs. “It will create tension because if we hear that some (consolidated PUVs) enter our routes, God forbid but I’m sure they will be blocked,” Valbuena told ABS-CBN in a TV interview.

The Department of Transportation, meanwhile, allayed fears of some senior-citizen PUV drivers that they would be admitted into a cooperative due to their age.

Office of Transportation Cooperatives chief Andy Ortega assured these drivers there is no age limit to joining transport co-ops.

“As long as you are qualified (to drive), you have a professional driver’s license, and you pass a medical exam (for drivers), you can join,” Ortega said.

Passengers, meanwhile, fear a spike in fares in future years owing to PUV consolidation and when public vehicles are modernized, an economic think tank said.

Sonny Africa, executive director of Ibon Foundation, said they fully expect that within five years, minimum fares on PUVs would reach P45 to P50.

The DOTr previously said it would thoroughly evaluate petitions for PUV fare increases.

TOKYO—A Japan Airlines plane was in flames on the runway of Tokyo’s Haneda Airport on Tuesday after apparently colliding with a coast guard aircraft, television reports said.

The images on broadcaster NHK showed the plane moving along the runway before an explosion of orange flames burst from beneath and behind it.

All 367 passengers on board the Airbus plane were evacuated, broadcaster NHK reported.

The cause of the incident was not immediately clear, but television reports said that the Airbus collided with a Coast Guard aircraft.

Reports said that the plane had just arrived from Sapporo airport on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido.

A Coast Guard official at Haneda Airport, one of the world’s busiest, said they were “checking details.”

“It’s not clear if there was a collision. But it is certain that our plane is involved,” he told AFP. The television footage showed flames coming out of windows and the plane’s nose on the ground as rescue workers sprayed it.

There was also burning debris on

Gov’t...

From A1 so few registrants is the lack of individual meters.

Another reason may be the low threshold or consumption level needed to qualify for the program, she said.

“Based on our coordination with ERC (Energy Regulatory Commission), DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development)... the 4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program beneficiaries) don’t have individual meters,” Baltazar said.

“For others, they feel that the threshold level is very small. For example, there are areas in the Visayas where the threshold is 25 kilowatthours. Normally, they exceed that consumption so they decided not to register,” she said.

Based on the list of the DSWD, there are 4.2 million 4Ps members, but only 191,399 have registered as of Dec. 15.

“We still encourage them to register and we are studying the threshold aspect,” Baltazar said.

“We are looking for those who can help us study how to effectively implement the program because the threshold has to be approved by the ERC, and [we have to] determine [the] possible impact of subsidizing customers so it should be a holistic approach,” Baltazar said.

Baltazar said other 4Ps are geographically dispersed and they may not be aware of the program.

She said power distribution utilities should continue to conduct on-the-spot registration during the lifeline caravan to encourage more participants.

Japan...

From A1 that rocked Japan on New Year’s Day. Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it is ready to help the Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) if needed.

Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko on Tuesday applauded President Marcos for extending a helping hand to Japan.

In a post on X, Koshikawa said the Philippines is a “friend indeed” after Marcos offered assistance to Japan.

Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene Garcia-Albano on Tuesday said 35 Filipinos in Japan were evacuated from their homes due to a possible tsunami after the New Year’s Day 7.6-magnitude earthquake.

Albano said the Filipinos who evacuated were reported in Ishikawa Prefecture, which is the worst-affected area.

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega earlier said there were no Filipino casualties in the earthquake, quoting the Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers.

There are 298,740 Filipinos in Japan, including 1,300 in Ishikawa prefecture, the DFA said.

1Fromdead...

A1 was a 38-year-old male from Ilocos Region who lit a cigarette while drinking with others near firecrackers in storage.

“Guns, liquor, and fireworks should never mix,” Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said.

The stray bullet incident involved a 23-year-old male from Davao Region

January...

From A1 Helen, Igme, Julian, Kristine, Leon, Marce, Nika, Ofel, Pepito, Querubin, Romina, Siony, Tonyo, Upang, Vicky, Warren, Yoyong and Zosimo PAGASA also listed 10 backup names

Pagadian bishop Lunas dies after heart bypass BISHOP Ronald Lunas of Pagadian has died, several days after a heart bypass in a hospital in Davao City last week, according to the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

In a statement Tuesday, Archbishop Romulo Valles of Davao said Lunas, 57, underwent heart bypass surgery on Dec. 28 but died five days after the operation.

Ordained a priest for the Diocese of Digos in 1992, Lunas was appointed bishop of Pagadian in November 2018.

He was ordained to the episcopate on Feb. 11, 2019, becoming the first bishop from the clergy of the Digos diocese.

Lunas was installed as the fifth bishop of Pagadian on March 25, 2019.

He has been leading the Episcopal Commission on Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC) of the CBCP since 2021.

The bishop had been in the hospital since early November following a heart attack and stroke. Vito Barcelo

PH...

From A1

the runway.

More than 70 fire engines were being deployed, NHK reported.

Japan has not suffered a serious commercial aviation accident in decades.

Its worst ever was in 1985, when a

JAL jumbo jet flying from Tokyo to Osaka crashed in the central Gunma region, killing 520 passengers and crew.

That disaster was one of the world’s deadliest plane crashes involving a single flight. AFP

Most of the Filipinos in Ishikawa work in offices, factories, and the agriculture sector.

On the Noto Peninsula, the destruction included buildings damaged by fire, houses flattened, fishing boats sunk or washed ashore, and highways hit by landslides.

“I’m amazed the house is this broken and everyone in my family managed to come out of it unscathed,” said Akiko, standing outside her parent’s tilting home in the badly hit city of Wajima.

The way 2024 started “will be etched into my memory forever,” she said, after what she called the “long and violent” earthquake on Monday.

“It was such a powerful jolt,” Tsugumasa Mihara, 73, said as he queued with hundreds of others for water in the nearby shell shocked town of Shika.

Local authorities put the death toll at 48, but the number was expected to rise as rescuers comb through the rubble.

“Very extensive damage has been confirmed, including numerous casualties, building collapses and fires,” Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said after a disaster response meeting.

“We have to race against time to search for and rescue victims of the disaster.”

Aerial news footage showed the terrifying scale of a fire that ripped through the old market area of Wajima, where

a seven-story commercial building also collapsed. Quake damage impaired rescue efforts to put out the blaze.

Almost 33,000 households were without power in the region, which saw temperatures touch freezing overnight, the local energy provider said. Many cities were without running water.

The US Geological Survey said the quake had a magnitude of 7.5. Japan’s meteorological agency measured it at 7.6, and said it was one of more than 150 to shake the region through Tuesday morning.

Several strong jolts were felt early Tuesday, including one measuring 5.6 that prompted national broadcaster NHK to switch to a special program.

“Please take deep breaths,” the presenter said, reminding viewers to check for fires in their kitchens.

On Monday, waves at least 1.2 meters high hit Wajima and a series of smaller tsunamis were reported elsewhere.

Warnings of much larger waves proved unfounded and on Tuesday, Japan lifted all tsunami warnings.

Images on social media showed cars, houses and bridges in Ishikawa wobbling violently as terrified people cowered in shops and train stations. AFP, Charles Dantes, Vince Lopez, Rey E. Requejo

the remaining strategic deficiencies identified by the FATF in relation to the grey listing of the Philippines,” he added.

The FATF placed the Philippines on the grey list in June 2021.

President Marcos earlier issued Executive Order No. 33 directing all government agencies and local government units to adopt the National Anti-Money Laundering, CounterTerrorism Financing, and CounterProliferation Financing Strategy (NACS) 2023-2027.

“This is part of the government’s efforts to move the Philippines out of the grey list of the FATF’s ‘Jurisdictions Under Increased Monitoring’ of countries that failed to show tangible and positive progress in addressing all key recommended actions in the Third Mutual Evaluation Report (MER),” the EO said.

The new strategy creates an additional sub-committee on proliferation financing, which is defined by the FATF as the provision of funds or financial services used for the manufacture, acquisition, possession, development, export, trans-shipment, brokering, transport, transfer, stockpiling or use of nuclear, chemical or biological weapons and their means of delivery.

David said the President emphasized the importance of continued coordination among government agencies to comply with the order.

“The FATF gave us 18 recommended actions, items which we should address... to measure and assess the effectiveness of the rules and regulations, and the laws we have passed,” the AMLC official said.

“There are repercussions for being on the grey list because the longer we are on the grey list, the bigger the possibility or the higher the risk that we will enter the black list. We aim to avoid being blacklisted, as it carries repercussions, including impacts on transactions involving Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs),” he added.

who had a gunshot wound to his left upper back.

“Let us work to avoid injuries and deaths from stray bullets and accidents due to intoxication,” Herbosa said. “Responsible gun owners know that bullets that go up will go down, and discharging firearms is not a way to celebrate.”

“The death reported today was an incident waiting to happen because liquor impairs judgment,” he added. “We can prevent these; we must work together

across all sectors to do so,” he added.

The DOH reported a total of 443 injuries with 441 due to fireworks, one due to Watusi ingestion, and one from a stray bullet.

Almost six out of every 10 cases came from NCR (254 or 57 percent).

The Ilocos Region and Cagayan Valley accounted for 8 percent each, and Calabarzon accounted for 7 percent.

Ninety-seven percent of the incidents happened at home and in the streets,

mostly by males with active involvement.

The top-ranking identified fireworks that caused the most cases were kwitis, 5-star, boga, pla-pla, whistle bomb, fountain, luces, piccolo, and triangle.

Illegal firecrackers, marked with an asterisk, were to blame for four out of every 10 cases—with legal fireworks causing more injuries.

The DOH also reported that from 5 a.m. of Dec. 21 to 5:59 a.m. on Jan. 2, there were 212 new cases.

in case more than 25 tropical cyclones enter the country: Alakdan, Baldo, Clara, Dencio, Estong, Felipe, Gomer, Heling, Ismael and Julio.

As this developed, the La Niña phenomenon could also delay the onset of the rainy season, the bureau said.

Ana Lisa Solis, PAGASA climate monitoring and prediction section head, said

described the possible delay in the rainy season, which usually starts around late May or early June, as “very critical.

“Although the uncertainty (of La Niña) is still high, most of the models say there is a possibility. So we are looking into the long term climate situation,” Solis said.

Only 11 typhoons entered PAR last

year because of the El Niño phenomenon.

The Department of Agriculture, 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. Rio Araja and Othel Campos

IN FLAMES. This photo provided by Jiji Press shows a Japan Airlines plane on fire on a runway of Tokyo’s Haneda Airport on Jan. 2. AFP

Tsunami warning lifted

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Go stresses need for BI to modernize to combat corruption SENATOR Christopher Go emphasized anew that the Bureau of Immigration (BI) needs to modernize to counter corruption.

Go said there is a need to have additional personnel under the modernization program, as well as proper compensation.

The senator emphasized the correlation between low salaries, staff shortages, and corruption, as he emphasized the need for improved wages to mitigate these problems in the bureaucracy.

Go also noted past irregularities involving Immigration personnel, underscoring the urgency of reforms in the BI’s policies.

He said his vision for the modernization of the BI includes enhancing services for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), who often require guidance and support.

Go also criticized the exploitation of OFWs and the bureaucratic hurdles they face, emphasizing the need for proper guidance to ensure their safety and well-being.

Go earlier filed Senate Bill No. 1185, known as the proposed “Bureau of Immigration Modernization Act.” Under the bill, coterminous positions are created for the Office of the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioners. New positions will also be created under the Directorate for Planning and Research, and Directorate for Human Resources Management and Development.

The creation of new positions under the bill, according to Go, could boost the productivity and efficiency of the BI. The proposed measure also provides that the Commissioner may also make changes in the composition, distribution, and assignment of field offices, as well as its personnel, based on the demographics of the foreign nationals and as the exigency of the service requires.

Macon Ramos-Araneta

Escudero: GDP hike needed to counter debt

JOURNEY BACK. Passengers, mostly those who spent their holidays in Manila, flock to a provincial bus station in Kamuning, Quezon City on Jan. 2 to go back home to their provinces. Manny Palmero

Gatchalian: Budget to cover gaps in free higher education funding

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

S

ENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian said the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) or Republic Act No. 11975 will address the potential funding deficiency in free higher education in state universities and colleges (SUCs).

Gatchalian said the 2024 GAA carries a special provision that proposes unused balances of the Higher Education Development Fund (HEDF) to be used to pay the deficiencies between the 2024 allocation for free higher education in SUCs and the program of receipts and expenditures.

This is based on the actual number of enrollees and fees approved by SUCs’ board of regents or trustees, he said.

Gatchalian, who said the special

provision was his proposal, said the projected deficiencies in free higher education would amount to P4.1 billion.

The Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) projects that 1.8 million students will avail of free higher education in 2024.

Gatchalian proposed the use of the HEDF because, based on data from the Bureau of Treasury, the accumulated net balance of the fund has totaled P10.167 billion as of May 22, 2022.

This is enough to cover the funding gap for free higher education in SUCs for 2024.

The HEDF, however, will only cover free higher education deficiencies for fiscal year 2024.

The senator previously emphasized the need to address the looming funding shortfall because it will affect SUCs’ capacity to invest in laboratories, classrooms, and other facilities which, in turn, will affect the quality of education that SUCs deliver.

“We guaranteed that for this year, we will avoid the lack of funds for SUCs, “ Gatchalian, who is the chairperson of the Senate Basic Education Committee, also said.

He said it is important to ensure that there are enough funds for SUCs to continue the delivery of quality education.

SENATOR Francis Escudero said the government should explore all possibilities to increase the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) to maintain the debt-to-GDP ratio at a manageable level.

He noted that with six years of Duterte’s administration and six months of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Philippines has recorded P13.6 trillion in debt in 2023.

He warned that if the country’s borrowing is P2.3 trillion per year, the country’s debt could balloon to P27.4 trillion by the end of the Marcos administration in 2028.

“I hope we will keep that in mind as we go through the next four years and approve the budget for the succeeding years,” Escudero said, adding that increasing the GDP will mean that the debt-to-GDP ratio “will remain at a manageable 60 percent.”

National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan earlier said the Philippine economy grew by 5.9 percent in the third quarter of the year, bringing the year-to-date economic growth to 5.5 percent.

Balisacan said this makes the Philippines among the best-performing economies in Asia.

“In the face of many domestic and international challenges, we have effectively implemented the appropriate strategies to sustain the economy’s forward momentum,” he said.

Balisacan said real GDP per capita already recovered and exceeded its pre-pandemic level.

He noted that most sectors have already reached higher levels than their pre-pandemic performance.

Macon Ramos-Araneta

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Anti-terror law even on rights of suspects, lawmen—Sotto

PLAZA MIRANDA STREET GETS A MAKE OVER. Workers of the Department of Engineering and Public Works give the pavement at the Plaza Miranda in Quiapo, Manila a make-over ahead of the Jan. 9 Traslacion of the Black Nazarene. Norman Cruz

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

PNP to deploy more than 13k cops to secure Feast of Black Nazarene M ORE than 13,000 policemen will be deployed to ensure peace and order during the observance of the Feast of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila on Jan. 9.

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. hinted that a bigger force of law enforcers was necessary since this year’s event would go back to the usual observance of the Traslacion or Feast of the Black Nazarene.

Acorda cited the PNP’s coordination with the Manila Police District who confirmed that the usual practice of the Traslacion would be resumed this year.

“We have learned that the Traslacion

will go back to its usual format. So in line with that, we are intending to deploy 13,691 police officers,” Acorda said in a radio interview.

Apart from the policemen, Acorda said K-9 units would be on dispatch to augment the security forces during the traditional procession of the Black Nazarene’s icon.

Some 2.5 million devotees are expected to take part in the procession, although the volume could change depending on the

situation on the ground, the PNP chief said.

Acorda added that there would be prohibitions during the procession in socalled “controlled areas” as discussed in their meetings with various groups responsible for the event.

Among the banned items in the “controlled areas” are backpacks, ball caps, and umbrellas.

Acorda also said water and other thirst-quenchers should be carried in transparent containers.

He also said jamming of cellphone signals during the event would depend on the “recommendation of ground commanders”.

A procession dubbed “Walk of Thanksgiving” was held Saturday night to usher

in the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

The procession, which featured the image of the Black Nazarene, started at 11:30 p.m. from Quiapo Church, also called the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno.

The image on board a carroza was taken out of the church and paraded on the surrounding thoroughfares.

Parish officials, members of the Hijos del Nazareno, and police personnel joined the devotees in the procession which took more than two hours. The event was broadcast live on the church’s Facebook page.

Quiapo Church earlier released the rest of the activities for Nazareno 2024, which will culminate in the Traslacion on January 9:

Lawmaker cites P1b for bicycle lanes funding

EMBO residents regret loss of yellow card perks

By Maricel V. Cruz IN a bid to accelerate the development of protected bicycle lanes, Congress raised to P1 billion the funding for the Active Transport and Safe Pathways Program (ATSPP), Quezon City Rep. Marvin Rillo, , said on Tuesday.

“In the 2024 General Appropriations Law, we bumped up to P1 billion the budget for bicycle lanes with durable physical separation from mixed traffic lanes,” said Rillo vice chairman of the House Committee on Metro Manila Development and member of the House appropriations committee.

“The amount is double the P500 million that the Department of Budget and Management had requested when it first submitted the allotment for congressional approval,” Rillo said.

“This is our way of reassuring Filipinos that cycling is a sustainable alternative mode of mobility,” Rillo said.

“We are absolutely determined to promote cycling and lessen harmful motor vehicle emissions in the interest of public health,” he added.

The P1 billion in new funding for the ATSPP is included in the 2024 budget of the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

The sum is on top of the P705 million and P2 billion earmarked for the program in 2023 and 2022, respectively, according to Rillo The ATSPP has so far put up 564 kilometers of bicycle lanes throughout Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Metro Davao as of June 2023.

THE VIEW FROM ANTIPOLO CITY. Metro

Manila’s skyline as photographed from Antipolo City’s overlooking deck, is immensely shrouded with smog even on a clear day at the mountaintop.

Manny Palmero

THE rules set by the Supreme Court on the Anti-Terrorism Act appeared to be balanced, protecting the rights of both the arresting officers and suspected terrorists, according to former Senate President Vicente Sotto III. Sotto noted however, that the law gave arresting officers wider latitude to arrest and file violation of anti-terror law against suspected terrorists without fear of being subsequently charged.

“On a personal note, as long as it does not make our law the weakest in the region, it’s fine,” Sotto said.

On the other hand, Sen. Panfilo Lacson, principal author of the law in question, said he could not agree more with the Supreme Court ruling in its interpretation of the law.

Aside from the other safeguards provided in the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 against possible abuse by law enforcers, Lacson said they have effectively amended the Anti-Wiretapping Law which only requires a regional trial court judge to authorize law enforcement officers to conduct technical surveillance on persons suspected of committing terrorist crimes.

As far as violations of the ATA, Lacson said a division of the Court of Appeals now has the authority to issue that judicial warrant.

He said arrest and detention without judicial warrant is akin to citizen’s arrest which is already allowed under existing jurisprudence.

“We merely extended the allowable period of detention due to the unusual nature of the crime of terrorism which could arbitrarily endanger the lives of innocent civilians more than the violations of the Revised Penal Code and other special laws,” Lacson said.

According to him, the Philippines Anti-Terrorism Law has one of the shortest reglementary periods of detention of arrested terror compared to other laws.

VESPA PILIPINAS TOURISM RALLY. Vespa Pilipinas and its partners are spearheading their first ever tourism-themed rally dubbed ‘Vespa Pilipinas Tourism Rally’ set on Jan. 20-21, described as a test of endurance and stamina for both riders and machines. The rally starts at SMX Mall of Asia going to Lingayen City in Pangasinan, then to Subic Bay in Zambales. Photo shows Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr (4th from left) during a courtesy call of Vespa Pilipinas officers ( from left ) Emman de Jesus, Kristofferson Mauricio, PJ Dacuycuy, Roberto Sison, JC Dacuycuy, and JP Dacuycuy.

RESIDENTS of the 10 barangays the jurisdiction of which was transferred from Makati City to Taguig City are no longer allowed to use their yellow cards which provided them government-subsidized health care, the Makati City government said.

Some of the affected residents expressed however, their dismay over the loss of their benefits under the yellow cards.

Jessie Aguelo of Barangay West Rembo said in an interview with GMA’s Unang Blita that they were already used to receiving discounts whenever they seek healthcare. He wondered if Taguig City would replace their yellow cards.

“For instance, if my child got sick, we get good discounts by presenting the yellow card. When we are sick, we just go to the Ospital ng Makati,”Aguelo said in Filipino.

“Nadismaya kasi siyempre sanay na sa gano’n eh, medyo maka-discount sa yellow card (I was disappointed because of course, we were already used to that. We get a discounts using the yellow card), he added.

Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano said however, that there was no need for a health card to be accommodated at their hospital.

The Makati City government announced on Monday that pursuant to the decision of the Supreme Court, yellow cards given to the residents of the 10 EMBO barangays will no longer be valid starting January 1, 2024, unless they are employees of the Makati City government.

Makati said the licenses to operate of the health centers and lying-in clinics in the EMBO (Enlisted Men’s Barrio) barangays have also expired, thus the need to close them as well. Macon Ramos-Araneta

P200 million earmarked for Borongan Airport upgrade—Libanan BORONGAN Airport will receive P200 million in capital outlay for the upgrade of its aviation infrastructure.

4Ps party-list Rep. Marcelino Libanan said P200 million has been earmarked in the 2024 General Appropriations Law to refurbish the Borongan Airport.”

The airport serves Eastern Samar province and the coastal capital city of Borongan, which is a popular surfing spot.

Libanan represented Eastern Samar’s

lone congressional district for three consecutive terms before he was nominated as the 4Ps party-list representative.

“The airport’s improvement will facilitate the transfer of people and goods, and help bring in more tourists,” Libanan said.

“Our goal is to increase the airport’s capacity to accommodate more commercial flights,” he added.

The Philippine Airlines (PAL) began

last year operating twice weekly CebuBorongan-Cebu flights, enabling travelers from all over the country to easily reach Borongan.

“We look forward to other airlines operating flights in and out of Borongan,” Libanan said.

The airport is currently undergoing a 200-meter extension of its 1.3-kilometer runway.

Libanan, meanwhile, credited the

Borongan City government led by Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda for aggressively promoting sports tourism.

“We all want Borongan to become the surfing capital of Visayas,” Libanan said.

Over 150 competitors from across the Philippines recently participated in the Surf City Borongan Masters from November 24 to December 1, 2023, followed by the Second National Surf Summit from December 2-4. Maricel V. Cruz

Bill proposes creation of PUP College of Medicine A BILL filed in the House of Representatives seeks the establishment of a College of Medicine at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Quezon City to help address the critical shortage of doctors in the country.

House Bill 9605, sponsored by Quezon City (Second District) Rep. Ralph Wendel Tulfo, ACT-CIS party-list Reps. Erwin Tulfo and Jocelyn Tulfo invoked TUP’s commitment to offer scholarships and

affirmative action programs for financially challenged yet deserving students.

The proposed PUP-College of Medicine, aims to provide cutting-edge medical training, research opportunities, and community engagement initiatives to produce a diverse and skilled medical workforce, the proponents said.

“This bill seeks to lay the foundation for a comprehensive medical education program that encompass-

es cutting-edge medical training, research opportunities, and community engagement initiatives,” the bill’s explanatory note read.

“The establishment of a College of Medicine at the PUP-QC branch will serve as a transformative step towards producing a skilled and diverse workforce of medical practitioners who are not only academically competent but also deeply committed to serving the health needs of our communities,” the authors added. Maricel V. Cruz

A5

OPINION

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2024

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

Pop Goes The World Jenny Ortuoste

EDITORIAL

The year that was THE year 2023 was marked by contrasting experiences, blending moments of triumph with challenges that tested resilience, as always.

Amid progress, global uncertainties persisted, accentuated by sociopolitical tensions and environmental concerns.

Here are some of the past year’s highlights and lowlights: In January, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines shut down the country’s airspace for around six hours due to a power outage that affected its communication systems; the Court of Appeals acquitted online news platform Rappler and its founder Maria Ressa in a tax evasion case filed by the previous administration; the Supreme Court declares the TRAIN Law (Republic Act 10963) Constitutional.

requests for P500 million in confidential funds for the Office of the Vice President and P150 million for the Department of Education, of which she is Secretary; and criticism as well of the OVP’s expenditure of P125 million in confidential funds over 11 days in 2022.

Also scored was President Marcos Jr.’s signing into law of the Maharlika Investment Fund in July; its enactment was postponed in October for “further review,” after public backlash.

In that same month, the COVID-19 pandemic was declared ended as a public health emergency in the country, opening up the return and resurgence of business and work.

In August, the internet erupted over a road rage video that went viral. It showed a former police officer cutting off a male cyclist in Quezon City and threatening him with a gun. A settlement between the parties was made out of court.

In September, vog and sulfur dioxide spewing from Taal Volcano forced school closures and the suspension of some outdoor activities for many.

In the same month, some 200 high school students in Bohol were said to have been “possessed” after they exhibited strange behavior such as fainting, trembling, and hyperventilation while attending Holy Mass.

A similar case of mass hysteria was noted in July, when some 13 female high school students were supposedly “possessed” by an evil spirit at their high school in Danao City, Cebu.

November saw the end of Senator Leila de Lima’s six years of detention on alleged drug charges; as well as the disqualification by the Commission on Elections of Smartmatic from providing services in future Philippine elections.

In December, a bomb exploded during Holy Mass at Mindanao State University in Marawi; four people were killed in the blast. In the same month, a passenger bus fell into a ravine in Hamtic, Antique, killing 19.

Space constraints prevent me from citing more instances, but these should give you a good idea of what a ragtag year we had.

Among many other issues, we were reminded of how far we still have to go in terms of finding solutions to the ongoing and interminable transport and traffic crises that hinder productivity and drive up the financial and human costs of doing business and making a livelihood.

May 2024 be a better year for all of us, one that will hopefully see politicians and government officials doing their best to deliver necessary social services and the creation of infrastructure that will benefit the people, especially those most in need.

—“—

May 2024 be a better year for all of us, one that will hopefully see politicians and government officials doing their best to deliver necessary social services

In February, the Philippines granted the U.S. Armed Forces access to four more military bases under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement; a Chinese Coast Guard ship was alleged to have used some sort of laser device or weapon on a Philippine Coast Guard vessel in Ayungin Shoal, sparking a diplomatic protest; oil tanker MT Princess Empress sank off Oriental Mindoro and spilled 900,000 liters of industrial fuel oil, causing P10.8 billion in environmental and livelihood damage to some four or six provinces.

In March, traditional public jeepney and minivan operators held a transport strike in various cities to protest the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program; a United Nations women’s rights panel found that the Philippines violated the rights of ‘comfort women,’ victims of sexual slavery during World War II, by failing to provide reparations, social support, and recognition of the hurt they suffered; Vogue Philippines featured tattoo artist Apo Whang-od on its cover, making her the magazine’s oldest cover model ever.

The succeeding months saw criticism of Vice President Sara Duterte’s

* * * FB and Twitter: @DrJennyO / Email: writerjennyo@gmail.com

MAIL MATTER

On Mr. Hilario’s ‘Power rates’ THIS is in reference to the article “Power rates: Up, up and away” of Mr. Ernesto M. Hilario which was published in the Manila Standard on Dec. 29, 2023.

While Meralco does charge varying rates for different customer segments, this structure of power rates is followed not just by Meralco but by all private distribution utilities and electric cooperatives in the country.

It also bears emphasis that the distribution sector in the Philippines where Meralco belongs is highly regulated.

The information on the share of electricity in a typical household’s expenses mentioned by Mr. Hilario should also be further explained and verified.

According to the 2018 Family Income and Expenditures Survey of the Philippine Statistics Authority posted on its website, water, electricity, gas, and others (not just electricity) accounted for only at 8.8 percent of expenditures of families in NCR. On Mr. Hilario’s claim that we have one of the highest electricity

rates in Asia, it should be noted that a very recent study by the Australiabased International Energy Consultants which was widely publicized contextualized and assessed Philippine power rates.

IEC highlighted in the study that many of the Philippines’ neighboring countries appear to have cheaper electricity because their governments subsidize more than 50 percent of their tariffs.

It concluded that “Meralco’s regulated customers are currently paying a fair and reasonable price for electricity.”

Meralco does not benefit from what Mr. Hilario claims as “miscellaneous bill components.”

These charges are non-revenue components and Meralco does not in any way earn from these charges. Taxes, universal charges, and feed-in tariff allowance are all remitted to the government.

Additionally, these are broken down in detail in Meralco’s electricity bills.

The article also mentioned MGen

ManilaStandard

Published Monday to Sunday by Philippine Manila Standard Publishing Inc. at 6/F Universal Re Building, 106 Paseo de Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City.

Telephone numbers 8-5646225 and 8-5646229 (connecting all departments), (Editorial) 832-5554, (Advertising) 832-5550. P.O. Box 2933, Manila Central Post Office, Manila. Website: www.manilastandard.net

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Sympathy for the shock victims

W

E SYMPATHIZE, as we stand in solidarity, with survivors of the Monday major earthquake that hit Japan which, like the Philippines, lies on the volatile Pacific Ring of Fire.

Like the Armed Forces of the Philippines, we recognize the severity of the situation and the chasing issuance of tsunami warnings, eventually lifted, as images on social media showed cars, houses and bridges in Ishikawa prefecture wobbling violently as terrified people cowered in shops and train stations.

In Japan, natural disasters occur frequently since the archipelago is along the nearly 40,000-km Ring of Fire, an area where meet several tectonic plates – the most active earthquake tectonic belt – which makes it vulnerable to natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions.

The Philippines, being in the Pacific Ring of Fire – also referred to as the Circum-Pacific Belt – makes it vulnerable to frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Viewed from space, the Ring of Fire would appear as a strip that runs up the western coasts of South America and North America, continuing across the Alaskan Aleutian Islands to Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, then it heads south, off the coast of Eastern Asia, passing through Japan.

We raise our compassion for the survivors and families of the 48 victims of the major shock that caused widespread destruction

—“—

Houses collapsed and huge cracks appeared in roads while others were hit by landslides.

The earthquake was centered around 30 kilometers east-northeast of Wajima with a provisional depth of 16 km, registering a maximum 7 on

Citizen Barok

Louis ‘Barok’ Biraogo

Romualdez’s political star

IN A a surprising turn of events, key political figures in Davao Oriental, once staunch allies of the Duterte family, have switched allegiance to House Speaker Martin Romualdez’s LakasCMD party, shedding light on the internal tensions within the Marcos Jr. administration’s UniTeam.

The move, spearheaded by Davao Oriental 2nd District Representative Cheeno Miguel Almario and endorsed

by Vice Governor Nelson Dayanghirang Jr. and several provincial board members, signals a significant departure from their previous affiliations with the Nacionalista Party (NP) and Vice President Sara Duterte’s Hugpong ng Pagbabago Party (HPP).

The decision to join Lakas-CMD has been portrayed as a strategic choice driven by dissatisfaction with the direction of the previous administration, particularly the perceived discord between Romualdez and Sara Duterte.

The rift intensified when the House of Representatives, led by Romualdez, scrutinized Sara’s proposed confidential funds and the Department of Education’s budget, leading to a clash with the Duterte family.

Romualdez’s dedicated tenure as the president of Lakas-CMD, coupled with Sara Duterte’s prior resignation as the party’s chairman, has established him as a pivotal figure in this political realignment. The decision of influential leaders in Davao Oriental is viewed as a transition towards Romualdez’s sphere of influence, driven by a growing belief that he has presidential aspirations, thus deepening the divide between him and the Duterte camp.

The departure of these officials from the Duterte family’s political orbit to Romualdez’s group is underscored by a

commitment to prioritize the development of Davao Oriental.

Rep. Almario emphasizes the decision to join Lakas-CMD was premeditated, dismissing any connection to the disagreements between Romualdez and Sara Duterte.

and while the power generation unit does have a portfolio of power generation plants using coal and natural gas, Meralco only buys a small portion of its energy supply from it.

We source supply largely from contracts with power generation companies, which we have always been transparent about. Meralco has been proactively conducting competitive selection process (CSP) to ensure that it gets the leastcost power for its customers, consistent to its mandate.

Mr. Hilario loosely mentioned the allowable rate of return, saying it “now

stands at 14 percent from 9 percent a few years ago.”

He may be referring to the Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) which Meralco has already clarified as an industry-WACC that applies to all private distribution utilities in the same category and not specific to Meralco.

To further clarify, Meralco does not yet have a determined WACC since there has been no complete rate reset process since 2013.

I hope this clarifies certain points raised by Mr. Hilario.

Please feel free to reach out to us in

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 country’s seismic intensity scale, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.

A level-7 quake is described as making it impossible for people to remain standing. Such a temblor was last recorded in 2018 in Hokkaido, the weather agency said.

At least 48 people have been confirmed dead in the powerful earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula and surrounding areas in central Japan on New Year’s Day as more reports of damage came in and rescuers raced to find survivors on Tuesday.

The magnitude-7.6 quake caused extensive structural damage and fires in the city of Wajima in Ishikawa Prefecture, as continuing aftershocks and rubble on roads hampered rescue operations.

There have been at least 50 aftershocks in the region.

Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene Garcia-Albano said Filipino community leaders have contacted their members and reported there were no Filipino casualties thus far.

While we thank God there were no Filipino casualties, we raise our compassion for the survivors and families of the 48 victims of the major shock that caused widespread destruction.

—“—

The leaders’ unwavering support for Romualdez showcases their belief in his ability to uphold good governance, transparency, and the welfare of the Filipino people

The endorsement from former President Duterte during the 2022 elections had initially solidified the support of Almario and other local leaders for the Duterte-Marcos tandem.

However, recent events, including the House’s scrutiny of Sara’s funds and proposals for cooperation with the International Criminal Court’s inquiry into the anti-drug campaign, have led to this unexpected political realignment.

Almario’s vocal support for Romualdez and the House leadership, despite criticism from the elder Duterte, underscores the confidence in Romualdez’s

ability to steer the House towards good governance and transparency.

The Commission on Audit’s report, cited by Almario, adds weight to their claim the Lower House’s funds have been dispensed responsibly under Romualdez’s guidance.

The strategic move by these Davao Oriental leaders to align with Romualdez not only signifies a regional shift in political dynamics but also highlights the perceived strengths of Romualdez’s leadership.

The emphasis on unity, understanding, and dialogue, as articulated by Almario, suggests a departure from personal and political divides in favor of national welfare.

As Romualdez’s influence grows, fueled by support from key regional figures, the political landscape in Davao Oriental and potentially beyond is set for transformation.

The leaders’ confidence in Romualdez’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency positions him as a unifying force capable of steering the nation through challenging times.

The switch in affiliation by known Duterte allies in Davao Oriental to Romualdez’s Lakas-CMD marks a strategic political realignment.

Driven by dissatisfaction with the previous administration and a perceived commitment to regional development, the move elevates Romualdez as a central political figure with aspirations beyond the House speakership.

The leaders’ unwavering support for Romualdez showcases their belief in his ability to uphold good governance, transparency, and the welfare of the Filipino people, setting the stage for a potentially transformative era in Philippine politics.

order to verify certain conclusions so we can help in providing the proper context.

Given the importance of accuracy in information, it has been a personal advocacy to pursue information, education and transparency to enlighten all our customers and the public on the very technical nature of the energy industry.

Joe R. Zaldarriaga Vice President and Head of Corporate Communication Meralco

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

Associate Editor Managing Editor News Editor

Honor Blanco Cabie Opinion Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

WORLD

A6

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2024

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

INTENSIFIED ATTACKS. In this

Putin says Russia will ‘intensify’ Kyiv attacks KYIV—Russian President Vladimir Putin has said his forces would intensify strikes on military targets in Ukraine, after an unprecedented Ukrainian attack over the weekend on the Russian city of Belgorod.

The attack on Saturday, which killed 25 people including five children, came after Moscow launched a large-scale attack on Ukrainian cities.

Meanwhile, Kyiv said Russia had targeted the country with a “record” number of drones on New Year’s Day. “We’re going to intensify the strikes. No crime against civilians will rest unpunished, that’s for certain,” Putin said during a visit to a military hospital.

His comments came at the end of a deadly week in Ukraine, with both sides hitting each other with largescale attacks.

Putin said Russia would continue to hit what he called “military installations”.

“We are doing that today and tomorrow we will continue doing it,” Putin said almost two years into Moscow’s military offensive in Ukraine.

“What happened in Belgorod is a terrorist act,” Putin told wounded Russian soldiers sitting near him in hospital pyjamas and sanitary masks.

“There is no other way to call it.”

He accused Ukrainian forces of targeting “right in the city centre, where people were walking around, before New Year’s Eve”, and alleged they had “purposefully hit the civilian population”.

Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov announced Monday that the death toll from the attack on the city had risen to 25, saying medics were unable to save a toddler who was seriously injured in the attack. AFP

pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia’s President Vladimir Putin meets with servicemen -- representatives of branches of the Russian Armed Forces participating in the country’s military action in Ukraine, at the NovoOgaryovo state residence outside Moscow on Monday.

Putin said ‘We’re going to intensify the strikes.’ AFP

More strikes on Gaza after Israel warns war will last through 2024 S HELLING and missile strikes rocked the length of the Gaza Strip overnight into Tuesday, after Israel’s army warned its war against the territory’s Hamas rulers will last through 2024.

Nearly three months of conflict have claimed almost 22,000 lives in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, and devastated much of the besieged territory.

Despite relentless global demands for a ceasefire, military spokesman Daniel Hagari said Monday the army was preparing for “prolonged fighting” expected to last “throughout this year.”

On Monday night into Tuesday morning, eyewitnesses reported missiles fired towards the city of Rafah in the south and shelling around the Jaba-

lia refugee camp in the north.

Fighting was also reported around the central areas of Maghazi and Bureij, as well as the main southern city of Khan Yunis.

“It’s the worst year of our lives,” Gaza resident Sami Hamouda, 64, told AFP of 2023.

“Every new day is like the previous one: bombings, death and mass killings.”

The war was triggered by Hamas’s October 7 attacks on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,140 people, most of them civilians, accord-

ing to an AFP tally based on official figures.

The militants also took around 250 people hostage that day, more than half of whom remain in Gaza, according to Israeli officials.

Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas, launching an offensive that has reduced vast areas of Gaza to a ruined wasteland and killed at least 21,978 people, mostly women and children, according to the territory’s health ministry.

The Israeli army says 173 soldiers have been killed inside Gaza in the battle against Hamas, which Israel, the United States and European Union have designated a terrorist organization.

Witnesses in northern Gaza told AFP on Monday that they had seen Israeli forces leaving several areas in and

‘Helpless in biting cold’: Japan shock shatters New Year calm SHIKA, Japan—Waiting in the cold, hundreds of residents of the earthquakehit Japanese town of Shika stood in a queue to get rations of a suddenly scarce, but vital, commodity: drinking water.

The line snaked out the door and around the town hall building, past paving stones jutting out of the ground that were forced upwards by the powerful series of tremors on New Year’s Day. Taps ran dry in many homes as dozens of aftershocks rocked Shika and other towns in the central Ishikawa region after the initial earthquake.

Among those waiting for their six allocated liters of water on Tuesday was Tsugumasa Mihara, who told AFP that the magnitude-7.5 earthquake was unlike anything he had experienced before.

The 73-year-old had just given his grandchildren a traditional New Year’s

Day gift of pocket money and was taking a nap when he was rattled awake by the quake.

“I was just helpless... all I could do at the time was pray that it would end soon,” he said.

The earthquake left broken dishes scattered in his kitchen, but no one was hurt in Mihara’s family and his home still has electricity.

Now, “the problem is water.”

The spate of earthquakes toppled large buildings, triggered a tsunami of more than a metre and saw a huge fire sparked in the city of Wajima, razing part of a market area.

By Tuesday, at least 30 people had been confirmed dead in the disaster, which left deep cracks in concrete and brought down entire wooden homes so only their tiled roofs lay on the ground. AFP

Israel’s Hamas attack survivors find solace underwater

LAUREATE CONVICTED. Bangladeshi Nobel peace laureate Muhammad

Yunus (center) leaves a court in Dhaka on Monday after he was convicted of violating Bangladesh’s labor laws in a case decried by his supporters as politically motivated. AFP

Lee Jae-myung: From factory worker to presidential contender SEOUL—A rarity among politicians in status-obsessed South Korea, former child factory worker Lee Jae-myung rose to become a presidential contender, telling voters his working-class roots equipped him to fight inequality.

Lee, who was under treatment in Seoul after being stabbed in the neck on Tuesday, lost the tightest presidential election in South Korean history to Yoon Suk Yeol in 2022. The motive behind the attack was unknown.

Leading the country’s main opposi-

tion party, Lee has since been a staunch critic of President Yoon, and is widely expected to run for the top office again in 2027.

“I had to work in a factory because I couldn’t pay for school,” he told AFP before the 2022 election.

“My parents were cleaners. I escaped poverty, but many around me are still stuck... I want to change the system.”

Lee’s political rise coincided with growing worries about inequality, skyhigh housing prices and youth unem-

ployment.

His time in elected office has been marked by policies including cash handouts to young adults, free school uniforms and free maternity care.

He has previously vowed to expand his universal basic income scheme nationwide as president.

While his supporters say these policies are rooted in Lee’s own experience and empathy for the less fortunate, his opponents accuse him of being a populist who will pile on debt

Hong Kong tycoon Jimmy Lai pleads not guilty to national security crimes Standard Manila

TODAY HONG KONG—Hong Kong pro-democracy tycoon Jimmy Lai pleaded not guilty Tuesday to “sedition” and “collusion” charges Manila Standard in a high-profile NOTICE IS HEREBY TODAY GIVEN THAT THE national secuESTATE OF THE LATE rity trial that EDWIN JERRY L. TANG could see him WAS EXTRAJUDICIALLY jailed for life.

SETTLED BY HEIRS The charges AS PER DOC. NO. 458; PAGE 93; BOOK NO. against Lai — II; SERIES OF 2022 founder of the BEFORE NOTARY now-shuttered PUBLIC ATTY. ROE popular ChiANNE R. CADIZ OF nese-language MAKATI CITY. tabloid Apple Daily –- revolve (MS-DEC. 19 & 26, 2023/JAN. 3, 2024)

around the newspaper’s publications, which supported pro-democracy protests and criticised Beijing’s leadership.

Lai, 76, is also accused of collusion via calling for international sanctions against Chinese and Hong Kong officials.

“Not guilty,” Lai said in English for each of the three charges read out.

Wearing a white shirt and a navy blue jacket, the septuagenarian was surrounded by three prison guards in the defendant’s dock.

He wore headphones to help him hear the trial more clearly, according to his lawyer.

Lai’s trial, which began in late 2023 after he was jailed for more than 1,100 days, is being closely watched as a ba-

around Gaza City, likely suggesting redeployment rather than permanent withdrawal.

Hagari said the Israeli army was “adapting the planning of the force deployment in Gaza”, including for reserve soldiers, as “the fighting will continue and they will still be required”.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, meanwhile, said residents of some towns and villages near the Gaza border -- many of which have been evacuated since the Oct 7 attacks—“will soon be able to return home.”

Since Israel imposed a siege at the outset of the war, Gazans have been facing dire shortages of food, water, fuel and medicine -- eased only by aid trucks, about 120 of which entered on Sunday. AFP

rometer of Hong Kong’s political freedoms and judicial independence.

Other defendants in the case include three Apple Daily companies that have been taken over by the Hong Kong government, six former executives of the newspaper, and two young activists related to an advocacy group called Stand With Hong Kong Fight For Freedom.

“This case is about a radical political figure... who conspired with others to bring into hatred and stir up opposition to the government of (Hong Kong) and the central authorities and to collude with foreign countries or external elements to endanger national security,” lead prosecutor Anthony Chau told the court Tuesday. AFP

to pay for these schemes.

Lee’s journey up the ranks of South Korean politics has also been marred by scandal.

He faces trial on charges of bribery linked to a firm that is suspected of illicitly transferring $8 million to North Korea.

Lee is also accused of a breach of duty that allegedly resulted in a loss of 20 billion won ($15 million) for a company owned by Seongnam city when he was its mayor. AFP

EILAT, Israel—Deep under the Red Sea, a passing Israeli warship could barely be heard as Yamit Avital held her breath and dived, her mind briefly cleared of the trauma of the Oct 7 Hamas attacks.

“There’s a kind of tranquility to the sea, in the deep,” Avital said after she emerged from 20 meters under the aquamarine waters of the Gulf of Aqaba, also known in Israel as the Gulf of Eilat.

“It’s like you don’t hear anything, you only hear the music of the sea.”

She and her husband Benny are among the survivors from Nir Oz, one of the hardest hit kibbutzim in Hamas’s devastating attacks that left at least 1,140 people dead in southern Israel, according to an AFP tally based on the latest Israeli figures.

Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas and launched a punishing offensive that has reduced vast areas of Gaza to a ruined wasteland and killed at least 21,978 people, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory’s health ministry.

In the aftermath of the October 7 attacks, the Avitals and their three children were evacuated to Eilat, where they found themselves across the street from the coastal resort’s Coral Beach Nature Reserve and its dive clubs. AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK BORDERLESS

ZONE.

A man with a tote bag reading ‘Visa Liberalization for CYAN MAGENTA YELLOWKosovo BLACK #WithoutVisa’ waits to travel at Pristina’s International Airport, on Monday.

A long-awaited European Union’s visa liberalization scheme allowing Kosovo nationals to travel to Europe’s borderless zone without a visa came into force Monday, with the first travelers hailing it as a great relief. AFP

BUSINESS

A7 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2024

extrastory2000@gmail.com

PH stocks rally on first trading day of 2024 PADC RECOGNITION. Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) chairman Delfin Lorenzana (center) is recognized for his steadfast support to the Philippine Aerospace Development Corp.

(PADC) during his term as Department of National Defense (DND) secretary. Giving the award are International Jet Management Asia Ltd. chief executive Maximilian Motschmann (left) and PADC acting president and chief executive Raymond Mitra during PADC’s year-end assessment and thanksgiving event on Dec. 20, 2023 at the Heritage Hotel, Pasay City.

Group of travel agencies braces for uptick in travel demand this year

By Othel V. Campos THE Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) is bracing for an uptick in travel in 2024, with international visitor arrivals expected to rise from 5.45 million in 2023 to 7.7 million this year.

Several key elements contribute to the positive projection, ranging from the country’s popularity in global surveys to government initiatives and travel trends, said PTAA president Evangeline Tankiang-Manotok.

“The lifting of COVID-19 restrictions made travel to the Philippines much more accessible compared to the previous years. Initiatives like the e -arrival cards, streamline the entry process, for the improving ease of travel and the DOT secretary Christina Frasco launched Love the Philippines based on the demand of the industry after the pandemic,” she said.

Manotok said travelers are now seeking authentic real-world experiences which means immersing themselves in other cul-

tures and seeking curated experiences that are unique or out of the ordinary.

Strong domestic tourism and government campaigns also play crucial rules, she said.

“As an organization, PTAA can continue to help increase tourist arrivals in the Philippines by continuing to promote beyond the famous beaches and islands, showcasing eco-tourism, adventure, activities, cultural immersion and culinary experiences. We should implement responsible tourism practices to protect

natural resources and ensure local communities benefit from the increased traffic,” Manotok said.

One trend that PTAA is hoping to capitalize on is B-Leisure, where business and leisure travel come together.

Another tourism trend PTAA hopes to promote is sustainable adventures where travelers seek destinations with a commitment to responsible tourism practices like reducing the carbon footprint, reserving natural resources and supporting local communities.

Globe Telecom tops local ranking on digital inclusion

By Darwin G.Amojelar GLOBE Telecom Inc. ranked the highest among local telecom companies in the prestigious 2023 Digital Inclusion Benchmark (DIB).

The DIB, conducted by the World Benchmarking Alliance (WBA), evaluates about 200 of the world’s most influential technology companies.

The benchmark assesses companies in advancing universal access to digital technologies, improving digital skills, fostering trustworthy use, and driving open, inclusive, and ethical innovation.

Globe’s commitment to digital inclusion was recognized, with the company’s score showing improvement from its first evaluation in 2021.

“Our progress in the Digital Inclusion Benchmark affirms our efforts to equip our customers with the necessary skills to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly. We remain committed to uplifting lives through digital technology while prioritizing the safety and security of our customers,” Globe Group chief sustainability and corporate communications officer Yoly Crisanto said.

Globe made huge strides in various areas evaluated by the DIB, particularly in the “Use” and “Skills” indicators.

The company soared to third place for “Use” among the 200 companies assessed, demonstrating best practices in monitoring, reporting, and responding to cybersecurity incidents.

It was also acknowledged for the clear language in its privacy policy, specifically regarding data collection practices and user rights.

Cybersecurity and data privacy remain a priority for Globe, which is evident in the appointment of a chief information security officer (CISO) and a chief privacy pfficer (CPO) who proactively address and manage digital threats that could impact the business and its customers.

Globe’s data centers received three International Standards Organization (ISO) accreditations, ensuring the highest quality of service and security to its clients.

Globe also boasts a state-of-theart security operations center, which plays a crucial role in protecting customer information.

EQUIPMENT DONATION. Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), through its corporate social development arm One Meralco Foundation (OMF), turns over various electrical system equipment to the Mindanao State University (MSU) main campus in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, to help elevate the learning experience of electrical engineering students. Meralco executive vice president and chief operating officer Ronnie Aperocho (right), an MSU alumnus, expresses support for the university in the wake of the recent campus bombing incident. Meralco chief CSR officer and OMF president Jeffrey Tarayao (left) is also present during the turnover.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

P

HILIPPINE stocks rallied on the first trading day of 2024 on expectations that inflation rate would slow down.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index surged by 104 points, or 1.61 percent, to close at 6,554.04 on Tuesday, while the broader all-shares index advanced by 41.38 points, or 1.21 percent, to 3,465.97.

“The possibility that inflation rate would settle within the 2-4 percent target of the government in December lifted market sentiment,” Philstocks Financial Inc. research analyst Claire Alviar said.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Rifacort said the market’s run up could still be considered as part of the Santa Claus rally.

He said the local market also caught up with the bigger gains posted by US and other global markets in 2023.

Meanwhile, Asian markets were mixed Tuesday as most traders returned from the New Year break looking forward to a 2024 that is expected to see a series of Federal Reserve interest rate cuts.

After a blockbuster run in the past two months, Wall Street stuttered last week, though analysts are hopeful for another surge as US monetary policy eases.

The next few days will provide fresh insight into the outlook for rates, with the release of minutes from the Fed’s December meeting, followed by jobs creation data.

Indications from the bank that it would cut rates three times next year have lit a fuse under equities with inflation and recession fears giving way to hopes for a strong period ahead.

“There remains an increasing belief that Fed rate cuts, which have bullishly marked all capital market trends in the last eight weeks, are still fully ingrained in stock market sentiment,” said SPI Asset Management’s Stephen Innes.

“While a stronger-than-expected jobs report could shake this conviction, a reversal would require a resurgence in realized inflation, triggering a significantly more assertive hawkish stance from (Fed boss Jerome) Powell and other key figures to discourage March or May rate cuts bets.”

He added that there was a question on how investors would reconcile the difference between market expectations of 150 basis points of cuts and the Fed’s forecast of 75. With AFP

GFNI, two units secure new nickel supply deal with China’s Baosteel Resources GLOBAL Ferronickel Holdings Inc. (GFNI) said Tuesday it secured a new supply deal with Chinese firm Baosteel Resources International Co. Ltd. Under the sale and purchase agreement, Baosteel will purchase up to 1.5 million wet metric tons (WMT) of nickel ore for 2024 at a price determined monthly based on the prevailing market value at the time of sale.

The ore will be supplied by GFNI’s subsidiaries Platinum Group Metals Corp., which operates a nickel mine in Surigao del Norte and Ipilan Nickel Corp., which operates a mine in Palawan.

About two-thirds of the nickel ore to be sold are expected to be low-grade with 0.90 percent nickel and 48 percent iron, and between 1.30 per-

cent and 1.40 percent nickel with 15 percent to 25 percent iron.

The remaining one-third will be medium grade with 1.40 percent and above nickel and 12 percent to 23 percent iron.

“We are proud to work with Baosteel and continue our long-term relationship. This agreement and our long history together demonstrate our customer’s confidence in our business and provide further recognition of our efforts in maintaining a reliable supply chain to meet the demands for Baosteel products throughout the Asia-Pacific region and internationally,” said GFNI president Dante Bravo in a statement to the stock exchange.

“With almost 10 years relationship, we believe our collaboration aligns with FNI’s mission of

providing metals and minerals that are essential for greener, more sustainable products required in everyday life,” he said.

GFNI ended 2023 with 4.763 million WMT shipped volume, including 3.297 million WMT from PGMC and 1.466 million WMT from Ipilan. A total of 0.379 million WMT were sold to Baosteel.

Baosteel is a wholly-owned subsidiary of China Baowu Steel Group, which is engaged in mineral resource investment, trading and logistics services.

China Baowu Steel Group ranked in 2023 as the largest company in the materials sector and 44th largest company worldwide by total revenues on the Fortune Global 500. Jenniffer B. Austria

HSBC France transfers retail bank to My Money Group of Cerberus PARIS, France—After more than two years HSBC transferred on Monday for an undisclosed amount its retail banking network in France to My Money Group, controlled by US private equity fund Cerberus.

The operation will see HSBC France’s nearly 250 retail branches with their 800,000 clients and 3,500 staff become CCF, a brand that HSBC shelved when it began operations in France some two decades ago.

The move is part of London-headquarters HSBC’s efforts to simplify and refocus operations on its major region of Asia.

When announcing the planned sale in June 2021, HSBC said the transfer for a nominal one euro

would see it incur a hefty charge.

But the rise in global interest rates complicated negotiations, with HSBC finally booking a charge of $2.4 billion against third quarter 2022 over the French unit.

The terms of the final deal were not disclosed.

In a statement released Monday the groups said CCF would seek to cater to professionals.

My Money Group traces its history in France back more than a century, originally helping people finance their purchases of Citroen cars, then spending two decades under General Electric’s control before the US conglomerate pulled out of finance activities.

Cerberus acquired the group in 2018. AFP

REAL ESTATE AWARDS. The Chamber of the Real Estate and Builders’ Association Inc. (CREBA), the country’s oldest and largest housing and real estate advocacy group, confers the ‘CREBA Pillar Awards’ to the ‘best of the best’ developers of the decade and trailblazers in the property industry. CREBA, during its 50th jubilee gala graced by Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual and Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, honored Ayala Land Inc. as the country’s Exemplary Developer of National Distinction and Vista Land and Lifescapes Inc. as the Exemplary Developer of National Significance.

BUSINESS

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2024

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

2023 foreign visitor arrivals soared to 5.45m I

By Othel V. Campos

NTERNATIONAL visitor arrivals in the Philippines reached 5.45 million in 2023, or 105.6 percent higher than 2.65 million in 2022, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said Tuesday.

Latest data from the DOT showed that of the total arrivals last year, foreign tourists accounted for the bulk of 91.8 percent or 5 million, while overseas Filipinos represented the balance of 8.2 percent, or 447,082.

The country generated also over P480 billion in international tourism receipts last year.

“These numbers speak very well of the performance of the tourism industry under the Marcos administration. Since we took office, we have set our goals for the industry not only in terms of international visitor arrivals but most importantly, the number of Filipinos, including their families, who will benefit from the opportunities generated by our constant and continuous efforts to make the industry prosper more than what we have aimed for,” Tourism Secretary Ma. Esperanza Christina Frasco said.

“We assure the President, including our partners from the public and private sectors, that we will continue to realize the vision of this administration to make tourism a catalyst for economic growth and resurgence,” said Frasco.

Frasco said the 2023 figures also surpassed the DOT’s target of 4.8 million visitors by 13.5 percent. She said that in 2024,

the DOT is looking at a baseline target of 7.7 million international visitor arrivals.

South Korea remained the country’s main source of international visitors, accounting for 26.41 percent or about 1.43 million foreign tourists last year, followed by the United States with 903,299 or 16.57 percent.

Japan accounted for 5.61 percent or 305,580; Australia, 4.89 percent or 266,551; and China, 4.84 percent or 263,836 tourists.

Canada, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, Singapore and Malaysia rounded up the top ten foreign sources of international visitors.

The DOT said the tourism industry recovered faster than expected as international tourism receipts surged by 124.87 percent to P482.54 billion in 2023 from P214.58 billion in 2022. It said around P6.317 billion in sales leads were delivered through the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines.

Adding to the sales and investments prospects are the numerous citations and awards the DOT won in 2023 that include the World’s Leading Dive Destination, World’s Leading Beach Destination, the World’s Leading City Destination for Manila, Asia’s Best Cruise Destination and Asia’s Leading Dive Destination.

FIRST TRADING DAY. The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) kicks off the trading year in the green as it jumps 104 points, or 1.6 percent, to close at 6,554.04 Tuesday. Leading the bell-ringing ceremony to mark the start of 2024 trading are (from left) PSE technology division head Philip Driz, capital markets development division head Mark Frederick Visda, general counsel Veronica Del Rosario, chief operating officer Roel Refran, president and chief executive Ramon Monzon, issuer regulation division head Marigel Baniqued-Garcia, Securities Clearing Corporation of the Philippines COO Renee Rubio, PSE finance division head Roberto Jose Jimenez and market operations division head Roel Villanueva.

Jollibee hikes investment in Tim Ho Wan owner

By Jenniffer B. Austria FOOD chain operator Jollibee Foods Corp. (JFC) said Tuesday it is increasing its investments in Titan Dining LP, the private equity fund owning the Tim Ho Wan brand and stores.

JFC said in a disclosure to the stock exchange its wholly-owned unit Jollibee Worldwide Pte. Ltd. (JWPL) is expanding the fund size of Titan to SG$450 million (about P18.9 billion) from SG$350 million.

It will use the bigger fund size to finance the store network expansion and working capital requirements of Tim Ho Wan and facilitate the completion of other projects.

JWPL will also hike its stake in Titan to 92 percent from 90 percent as it acquires the participating interest of

Economic team vows to push more reforms

DESLUDGING SERVICES.

Manila Water Company Inc. announces that it will continue to provide siphoning services to its customers in the east zone of Metro Manila and Rizal province at no additional cost in 2024. Manila Water’s desludging caravan will be present in several barangays in Quezon City, Makati City, Manila, Pasig City, Mandaluyong City and Antipolo City in January.

ru Bakery and Common Man Coffee Roasters (CMCR).

Other brands in the Titan’s food and beverage segment are Open Farm Community, Tippling Club, Noka, Bochinche, The Butcher’s Wife and Drunken Farmer.

Titan’s F&B segment had 34 outlets across seven brands in Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines as of endNovember 2023.

JFC initially invested SG$45 million in Titan in May 2018 to own a 45-percent participating interest in the fund. The deal came with an option for Jollibee to eventually acquire a substantial ownership of Tim Ho Wan’s master franchise in the Asia Pacific region through a purchase mechanism provided for in the investment agreement.

SEC: Newly-registered companies hit record high via online system

By Darwin G. Amojelar THE economic team of the Marcos administration vowed to work closely with Congress in pushing for key reforms crucial to accelerating economic development, Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Benjamin Diokno said.

Diokno said the approval of proposed legislative reforms would help ensure the funding for the P5.77-trillion national government budget for 2024 and attain the deficit target of 5.1 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) this year as specified in the Medium-Term Fiscal Framework (MTFF).

The DOF earlier endorsed the passage of the Real Property Valuation and Assessment (RPVAR) Bill; Ease of Paying Taxes (EOPT) Bill; Automatic Income Classification of Local Government Units Bill; Excise Tax on Single-Use Plastics (SUPs) Bill; and the Rationalization of the Mining Fiscal Regime Bill.

Diokno said the Philippines remained on track to achieving its medium-term fiscal targets based on the latest revenue, deficit and debt-to-GDP ratios.

Data showed that as of October 2023, the fiscal deficit stood at P1.02 trillion, an 8.5-percent decline from the same period in 2022.

The national government (NG) deficit-to-GDP ratio reached 5.7 percent in the first three quarters of 2023, still below the full-year target of 6.1 percent.

another limited partner in the fund for SG$7.7 million.

JWPL’s total commitment to the fund amount to SG$414 million.

“These amendments are necessary to support the growth expansion of Tim Ho Wan, other brands and other future food and beverages concepts that will be part of Titan’s portfolio,” JFC said.

JFC earlier said it planned to aggressively expand Tim Ho Wan in China with a target of reaching 100 restaurant outlets in the middle term.

Tim Ho Wan operates 78 outlets in Asia, mostly franchised stores with the largest concentration in China with 40 (19 in PRC, 16 in Taiwan, 5 in Hong Kong and 2 in Macau), Singapore with 11 and the Philippines with 9.

Aside from Tim Ho Wan, Titan also operates Singapore brands Tiong Bah-

ALSONS’ AWARDS. Alsons Power Group vice president for legal and regulatory compliance Lumen Balboa (left) receives the special recognition for Mapalad Partners Inc. Digos Modular Diesel Power Plant at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) Compliance Officers Conferment and Annual Compliance Awards held at WackWack Golf and Country Club in Mandaluyong City. These awards recognize the company’s outstanding commitment to adhering to WESM compliance rules, particularly as new trading participants in Mindanao.

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said Tuesday it saw a record number of company registrations in 2023 amid the easier registration process.

It said in a statement 46,445 firms successfully registered using the SEC’s Electronic Simplified Processing of Application for Registration of Corporation (eSPARC) from January to November 2023, surpassing the previous record of 42,936 for the entire 2022.

“In the past five years, the SEC has fiercely advocated for digital transformation to achieve efficiency and accessibility in the corporate sector.

The back-to-back record highs seen in 2022 and 2023 for company registration prove that we are succeeding

Thai company to start solar, offshore wind projects in PH

By Alena Mae S. Flores RATCH Group Public Company Ltd. of Thailand plans to start the construction of its Negros solar project this year and its offshore wind projects in Camarines Sur and Quezon province in 2025 as part of its overseas expansion program.

RATCH Group chief executive Choosri Kietkajornkul said in a statement the company continued to drive its investment plan in power business in the Philippines and other countries such as Australia and Vietnam.

“In the Philippines, the company moved forward the development of projects in pipeline including the Negros solar power

project expecting to begin construction in 2024, the offshore wind project in San Miguel Bay, and the offshore Luciana wind farm project on Luzon Island, which construction phase would start in 2025,” Kietkajornkul said.

The group is developing the Negros solar project with a potential capacity of 150 megawatts. It owns a 49-percent stake in the project.

It is also developing the Lucena offshore wind project in Quezon with an estimated capacity of up to 450 MW and the San Miguel Bay nearshore wind farm in Camarines Sur with 450 MW. The group holds a 49 percent interest in both projects.

Kietkajornkul said the projects in the

pipeline would create stable returns for shareholders and stakeholders.

“It will create benefits for society and the environment in the long term,” Kietkajornkul said.

The RATCH Group is also nearing completion of its 74-MW solar project in Calabanga, Camarines Sur, which is being implemented by subsidiary Calabanga Renewable Energy, Inc. The project company will sell about 85 percent of the generated energy through a power supply agreement with two subsidiaries of Aboitiz Power Corp. and the rest in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market or direct short-term contracts with commercial and contestable customers.

DA to unveil new strategy to revitalize farm sector, increase food production

By Othel V. Campos THE Department of Agriculture (DA) will unveil an ambitious strategy to revitalize the farm sector to boost food production, improve the lives of farmers and fisherfolk and create more jobs.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced the plan at the agency’s flagraising ceremony Tuesday, rallying DA employees to face the challenges head-on.

“2024 is a new year and it will be a very challenging year. As I told you last time, all eyes are trained on us, more on me probably because I’m the new agriculture secretary. The entire country expects that we could feed them and that

we will try to bring commodity prices down,” Laurel said.

Recognizing the urgency of the task, Laurel said modernization is the cornerstone of the plan. The goal is to achieve food security by reducing reliance on agricultural imports. Achieving the vision requires better data collection, embracing new technologies and widespread adoption of farm mechanization, he said.

He said that within the next 10 days, the DA would unveil a detailed roadmap outlining the steps to achieve the ambitious goals. Laurel urged employees to embrace a sense of urgency, citing the El Niño phenomenon and the limited time remaining in President Marcos’ term.

in making doing business easier in the Philippines,” SEC chairperson Emilio Aquino said.

“As we start a new year, the SEC is ready to further take advantage of automated processes in place, as well as develop new systems, to ensure the smooth delivery of services to the transacting public,” he said.

The SEC attributed the higher number of new registrations to the success of its digital initiatives, starting with the launch of eSPARC in April 2021 and its subsystem, the One Day Submission and Electronic Registration of Companies (OneSEC) in September 2021.

The eSPARC reduced the time needed to register a company from 34 to three days. Jenniffer B. Austria

Vista Land to tap offshore debt market, raise $2b VISTA Land & Lifescapes Inc., the property development unit of the Villar Group, is returning to the offshore debt market with the establishment of a $2-billion medium-term note program.

Vista Land said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Tuesday its wholly-owned subsidiary VLL International Inc. approved the creation of $2-billion medium term note to be issued in tranches.

The other terms of the offering such as interest rate and size of the offering are subject to the company’s approval. It tapped DBS Bank Ltd. and HSBC as the dealers for the planned fund-raising activity.

Vista Land’s subsidiaries Brittany Corp., Crown Asia Properties, Inc., Camella Homes, Inc., Communities Philippines Inc., Vistamalls Inc. and Vista Residences Inc. will guarantee the notes.

The last time Vista Land issued dollar-denominated bonds was in 2020 when it raised $200 million which it used to refinance its loans.

Vista Land successfully raised P6 billion through the issuance of peso-denominated fixed-rate bonds in December. The offering consisted of Series F bonds at 7.5426 percent per annum due December 2026 and Series G bonds at 7.6886 percent per annum due December 2028. Jenniffer B. Austria

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SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2024

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

Keyonte George congratulates Utah Jazz teammate Jordan Clarkson for his tripledouble feat against the Dallas Mavericks at Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

AFP

Clarkson’s 1st triple-double keys Jazz win over Mavericks

Yulo’s former coach to train PH gymnastics’ young guns

By Peter Atencio

C

ARLOS Yulo’s brother Karl Eldrew, along with Southeast Asian Games’ gold medallists Juan Miguel Besana, John Ivan Cruz, will train with Japanese coach Munehiro Kugimiya this year.

Their development will be Kugimiya’s concern, months after he parted ways with the multi-titled Olympian Yulo.

Gymnastics Association of the Philippines chief Cynthia Norton-Carrion said this after Kugimiya came to Manila last week, with the esteemed Japanese mentor staying on as the Philippine national team head coach.

“It’s not only the grassroots that he is taking care of, he is also going to be training Eldrew, Ivan and Miguel,” said Carrion following an evaluation, which Kugimiya did before he went home to Japan on Saturday.

Carrion said the the 23-year-old Carlos, who recently qualified for the Paris Olympics, will be handled by 68-year-old Japanese mentor Tomoharu Sano instead later this month.

Sano, who used to be a member of the Japanese national team, is coming in because Caloy has already “outgrown” his

former coach.

“Of course, that’s because he (Carlos) has outgrown coach Mune. Mune trains people (athletes), who are starting off. And he has already been training Caloy since he was seven years old,” added Carrion.

The 15-year-old Karl Eldrew Yulo is starting to come out of the shadow of his older brother Carlos this year, having swept six gold medals at stake in the 2023 Palarong Pambansa and later snatching seven gold medals in the Batang Pinoy.

Besana will get training assistance from Kugimiya after he finished with a gold medal in the vault exercise event of the Cambodia SEA Games.

Cruz will get the same attention from Kugimiya, after he claimed the floor exercise gold and later joined Carlos in bringing home the team all-around silver.

Carrion does not count out the inclusion of Jan Timbang, who was part of Team Philip-

Karl Eldrew Yulo

pines’ silver win in the all-around event.

The GAP said the coaches of the na“They’re next in line. We are making tional team are deciding on the composisure that they get the right training,” tion of the national squad, which will be said Carrion. sent to the World Cup this year.

Tsitsipas struggles with back issue as Chile stuns Greece at United Cup

Chile’s Tomas Barrios Vera and Daniela Seguel celebrate after winning their mixed-doubles match against Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas and Maria Sakkari at the United Cup tennis tournament on Ken Rosewall Arena in Sydney. AFP

SYDNEY—Aust ralian Open contender Stefanos Tsitsipas struggled with a lower back problem Tuesday, pulling out of his opening singles match of the season at the United Cup as Greece crashed 2-1 to Chile.

The world number six was expected to meet Chilean number one Nicolas Jarry, but sat it out, leaving teammate Stefanos Sakellaridis to step up in the Group B clash in Sydney.

Sakellaridis, just 19 years old and ranked 416, put up an outstanding fight against the 19th-ranked Jarry, but fell short 6-3, 3-6, 7-5.

Greek world number eight Maria Sakkari had earlier earned a commanding 6-0, 6-1 victory over Chile’s outclassed Daniela Seguel.

Tsitsipas returned for the crucial mixed doubles decider with Sakkari, but they lost 6-7 (5/7), 6-3, 10-6 to Seguel and Marcelo Tomas Barrios Vera.

“It’s amazing, amazing,” Barrios Vera said. “It’s our second match as a team, so we’re super happy.”

Tsitsipas, who reached the Australian Open final last year, losing to Novak Djokovic, was clearly struggling on serve late in the match, grimacing as he held his back.

While watching Sakkari’s singles, he told the host broadcaster “there are a few chances I might not play and there are a few chances that I might” against Chile.

“I’m kinda 50-50 so far. We’ll wait and see.”

A six-time Grand slam semi-finalist, Tsitsipas has 10 ATP Tour titles to his name, but is still searching for a first major win.

Chery Tiggo boosts roster with Marano, Galang signings FOR the second consecutive season, Chery Tiggo scored a coup.

On Tuesday, the Crossovers announced that they had signed both Aby Marano and Ara Galang for the 2024 Premier Volleyball League Season.

The two were previously part of F2 Logistics, which disbanded last month.

Excited are the La Salle duo as they open a new chapter in their careers with Chery Tiggo.

“Nae-excite talaga ako to be a part of Chery Tiggo, parang ‘pag nagda-drive ka lang di’ba, parang ang sarap umarangkada kasama ang Chery,” said the 31-year-old Marano.

“I’m very thankful kasi may opportunity na ganito na maglaro sa Chery, and super excited din kasi unang-una, first time

JORDAN Clarkson went into celebration with his Utah team on Monday evening, as he got off the bench for a triple-double feat that no Jazz player has ever done for the last 15 years.

Scoring 20 points to go with 11 assists and 10 rebounds, Clarkson went on to help push the Jazz to a 127-90 triumph over the Luka Doncic-led Dallas Mavericks in their 2023-2024 NBA season encounter in Salt Lake City.

Clarkson’s performance was the first regular-season tripledouble by a Utah player since 2008 as it led the Jazz to a 15-19 win-loss record in the Northwest Division.

It was Clarkson’s first tripledouble of his career and also the first for the Jazz in a regular-season game.

Carlos Boozer last did it on Feb. 13, 2008.

“All the way up to the rebound, I was a little nervous,” said Clarkson after the game.

And for someone coming off the bench, Clarkson’s triple-double was also the first in 40 years for a Jazz cager, since Mark Eaton tallied 12 points, 14 rebounds and 12 blocks back in 1983.

A big celebration from Jazz fans also erupted after the game after Utah went on to beat the Mavericks by a 37-point margin, with Doncic finishing with a teamhigh 19 points, 14 assists and six rebounds.

“He’s adapted to a new role and he’s really trying to expand how he contributes to winning,” said Jazz coach Will Hardy.

Simone Fontecchio led the Jazz with 24 points, while Lauri Markkanen added 17 points, and John Collins chipped in 15.

Peter Atencio

ko lang din (may) makasamang iba talaga, so pumunta ako sa team na wala gaanong kakilala, and ‘yun, thankful ako na kasabay at kasama ko si Tyang,” chimed the 28-year-old Galang.

For Marano, she already knows the core of the team having played with them in the national team.

“At the same time, ‘yung mga players kasi from Chery, nakasama ko na sila from the national team -- especially sina Mylene Paat, si Jasmine Nabor, si Shaya (Adorador), si Eya (Laure), (Jennifer) Nierva, and a lot more. So excited ako to be working with these players,” Marano continued.

Last year, Chery Tiggo’s best finish came in the Second All-Filipino Conference, finishing in fourth place.

Both Marano and Galang vow to give

their all in helping give the Crossovers their first title since the 2021 Open Conference.

“They’ve (the fans) known me as a player with a very big heart. Very passionate, vocal, and a leader, so I want them to expect that from me. Going to Chery Tiggo, dadalhin ko lahat ‘yun,” said Marano.

“All-out naman ako lagi, so ibibigay ko ‘yung best ko every training, every game, every day. Gagawin ko lang lahat ng makakaya ko para makacontribute, makatulong sa team,” added Galang.

Ex-F2 Logistics teammates Ivy Lacsina and Dawn Macandili-Catindig have also signed with other teams with the former going to Nxled while the latter heading to Cignal.

Ara Galang and Aby Marano

Sakellaridis played the match of his life against Jarry, saving 10 of 12 break points. But his opponent’s experience paid off in the end.

“It was an incredible match, very tough for me,” said Jarry. “Stefanos played amazing. I think he was grinding a lot, so it was a very tough opponent and I’m happy to be able to be there mentally.”

Sakkari, the highest-ranked Greek woman in history, took just 68 minutes to crush Seguel, who was facing a top-20 player for the first time in her career.

She did not face a break point until the last game of the match, and successfully erased the chance.

World number one Djokovic is on court later Tuesday in Perth against the Czech Republic’s Jiri Lehecka. Serbia will move into a quarter-final showdown with Australia should they win. AFP

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2024

Top-seed Gauff has ‘things to improve’ after Auckland win AUCKLAND—Top-seed Coco Gauff admitted there were “things to improve” as she overcame a mid-match wobble to beat fellow American Claire Liu in straight-sets in the first round of the Auckland Classic on Tuesday.

US Open champion Gauff prevailed 6-4, 6-2 in her first match of the season, while second-seed Elina Svitolina was also made to struggle before outlasting Caroline Wozniacki 6-4, 6-3 in a battle of the comeback mums.

World number three Gauff raced to a 4-0 lead over Liu, ranked 92 places lower, before the fluidity slipped from her game.

She double-faulted twice to drop her serve and the gap narrowed to 5-4 when Liu broke again.

But the 19-year-old recovered her composure to take the first set when a loose Liu forehand sailed out.

Gauff broke twice more from 3-2 in the second to move into the secondround meeting with 16-year-old Czech Brenda Fruhvirtova.

Gauff declared herself satisfied with her performance as she began her build-up to the Australian Open, beginning on January 14, despite four double faults and a first serve at only 65 percent.

“I definitely needed to be tested and I feel like I played well today for my first match in a while,” declared Gauff, who is defending the Auckland title she won 12 months ago.

“There’s obviously things I can do to improve but I’m happy with the win,” she said.

Svitolina and Wozniacki, who both returned to the circuit last year after maternity leave, battled for one hour 45 minutes before Svitolina triumphed.

Former world number three Svitolina won the opening two games before Wozniacki fought back to lead 4-3.

But another break enabled the Ukrainian to take the first set 6-4.

Svitolina built a 4-1 lead in the second but Wozniacki refused to yield and won the next two games before the Ukrainian stretched away again. AFP

Jeremy Lin arrives with his New Taipei squad in Manila on Tuesday.

(EASL)

Meralco Bolts eye payback vs. Jeremy Lin, Taipei Kings M

By Randy Caluag

ERALCO seeks a crucial home game win in the East Asia Super League as it takes on former NBA star Jeremy Lin and the formidable New Taipei Kings at 7 p.m. on Wednesday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

The Bolts are seeking to avenge In that game, the 35-year-old Jeremy a 97-92 loss to the unbeaten Kings Lin showcased his leadership with an during their initial encounter at the impressive 25-point production and New Taipei Xinzhuang gymnasium seven assists. a month ago.

Lin was ably supported by import

Kenny Manigault, who had a stellar double-double performance of 19 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists.

Hayden Blankley, a familiar face from the defunct Bay Area Dragons, also played a crucial role in the Kings’ victory with 15 points, including nine from beyond the three-point line.

In their previous home game, the Bolts absorbed a narrow loss to the Seoul SK Knights, losing by a razorthin margin of 81-80 at the same Pasig venue.

Despite this setback, Meralco remains in contention for the semifinal

berths in Group B, currently holding a 1-3 record and looking to secure their first home victory.

The Taipei Kings, currently dominating Group B with an unblemished 2-0 record, arrived in the Philippines on Tuesday and wasted no time hitting the practice court at the Philsports Arena.

Notably, the initial clash with New Taipei marked the debut of Meralco’s import, Zach Lofton, who made an immediate impact by top-scoring with 35 points, including an impressive 6-of-13 shooting from beyond the arc.

Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race: Tenacity conquers all HOBART—The 78th Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race will go down in history as a relentlessly demanding test of determination, as well as physical and mental resilience.

The record will highlight a tooth and nail fight to the finish for Line Honours, and a Tasmanian boat joining the select few to have achieved two overall wins in the event’s near eight decades. Organized by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia in conjunction with the Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania, Rolex has partnered the iconic offshore challenge since 2002.

For both the overall winner, Philip Turner’s 66 ft (20-metre) Alive, and the 100 ft (30.5 m) line honours victor, Christian Beck’s LawConnect, tactical skill and awareness was a major factor alongside sheer endurance.

This was especially so in the River Derwent, on the final approach to Hobart, where the fates of many fatigued crews were finally decided.

The unwavering tenacity of offshore sailors and their capacity to summon their deepest reserves all the way to the finish, has been a common theme throughout Rolex’s near 70-year relationship with yachting.

Sydney Hobart Yacht Race participants

A fleet of 103 yachts had signed up for the renowned 628-nautical mile undertaking, ranging from fully professional maxi racers to more Corinthian crews,

and including some 18 two-handed boats. tic onlookers, an uncertain and unsettled Departing Sydney Harbour on December weather outlook ramped up the already 26 under mainly sunny skies and accom- high stakes of this notorious course. panied by the usual throng of enthusiasThe presence of low pressure over the

New South Wales coast and the ominous threat of troughs was fair warning of what was to follow.

Rapidly developing thunderstorms, lightning, intense rain squalls and winds erratic in strength and direction enveloped the fleet during the first 24 hours of racing.

A south westerly then moved in, leaving the bulk of the yachts heading across Bass Strait and down the coast of Tasmania in upwind conditions that would turn very heavy, with a total of 16 crews forced to retire over the course of the race.

Although four yachts were initially tipped as contenders, the battle to be first across the line in Hobart came down to a two-horse race between 100-footers LawConnect and Andoo Comanche, with LawConnect just managing to steal ahead in the final nerve-wracking seconds, after almost two full days of stalking their opponents.

“To win line honours in the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is a dream come true, especially against Comanche because it’s such a good boat, and in a circumstance where the lead changed so much. It was an incredibly exciting experience all around.”

Blacklist International leads list of PH teams at Predator League 2024 Grand Finals

Members of Blacklist International

IT is all systems go for the highly anticipated Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 Grand Finals at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on January 13 and 14.

Twenty-six teams from across the Asia Pacific region will compete in Dota 2 and VALORANT for the coveted Predator Shield and their share of the $200,000 prize pool.

The question is: How will Filipino teams fare in the tournament?

For Dota 2, iconic teams Blacklist International, Execration, and defending Asia Pacific Predator League champions Polaris Esports will be joined by the winners of the Philippine qualifiers, Made in Philippines.

For VALORANT, Team Secret, one of the most renowned teams in the VCT Pacific League, will be alongside Oasis Gaming and ZOL Esports, who both qualified during the Philippine Finals.

“It will be anybody’s game. Predator League is the stomping ground of the region’s up-andcoming esports talents. We are excited to see who is hungry enough for the victory to overcome the competition and win the Predator Shield,” said Sue Ong Lim, General Manager at Acer Philippines.

The two-day event will be filled with actionpacked gaming, meet-and-greet sessions with Predator ambassadors, and performances by

top Filipino artists, including Acer ambassadors Sarah Geronimo and SB19.

“January 13 and 14 will be an esports and entertainment spectacle like no other. We have prepared so many exciting activities and awesome surprises that everyone will surely enjoy,” said Princess Laosantos, Senior Marketing Manager at Acer Philippines.

Tickets are now available through SM Ticket booths or online at https://www.smtickets.com/ tickets/AsiaPacificPredatorLeague.

For more information and updates about Predator League, visit www.facebookcom/ PredatorGamingPhilippines or the official website www.predator-league.com.

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SHOWBIZ Breaking the mold Calendar girl Pench Andanar challenges traditional beauty norms WHITE Castle Whiskey’s new calendar girl, Angelie “Pench” Andanar, is marking a significant shift in the portrayal of beauty, especially in the Philippines, where tattoos have often been viewed with skepticism.

At 36, Pench, a freelance model and single mother from Pampanga, defies the typical calendar girl stereotype. Her detailed and extensive body tattoos set her apart, making her a symbol of edgy beauty and self-expression.

Pench kicked off her modeling career in 2006 and gained notable recognition as FHM Philippines’ Girlfriend Of The Month in May 2010. Her unique combination of an angelic face and bold tattoos has established her as a prominent influencer in beauty, fashion, and lifestyle. Pench’s resilience and dedication to her craft are as remarkable as her advocacy against tattoo discrimination in the Philippines.

Pench’s collaboration with White Castle Whiskey transcends a mere modeling gig; it’s a profound statement. White Castle, a brand known for its iconic imagery of beauties on white horses, is taking a stand for inclusivity and the celebration of diverse forms of beauty. By choosing Pench, they are not only embracing her individuality but also sending a powerful message that beauty transcends conventional standards.

Pench’s advocacy against tattoo discrimination in the Philippines is a significant part of her identity. Her extensive body tattoos are not just adornments; they are a statement of her individuality and a challenge to societal norms.

Her influence extends to Alua, a platform where she shares exclusive content with her audience. With over 242 photos and 19 videos, Pench offers an insider’s view into her life and style, further solidifying her status as a role model and a voice for selfexpression.

White Castle Whiskey, from Destileria Limtuaco & Co., Inc., the Philippines’ oldest distillery, has long been an industry pioneer.

It has embraced diversity and inclusivity in its marketing strategies, evident in the bold choices it makes for its iconic calendars.

Moving away from traditional imagery, the company has embraced a more inclusive and diverse array of personalities.

Notable examples include vlogger Ninong Ry, known for his charismatic and unconventional online presence; and Ria Atayde, who promotes body positivity, challenging traditional beauty standards and encouraging a more inclusive view of beauty. Her involvement signifies the brand’s commitment to celebrating all body types.

In a similarly progressive move, Destileria Limtuaco made a significant stride in inclusivity by featuring Sassa Gurl, their very first LGBTQIA+ personality. This not only highlights the brand’s openness to diverse representations but also resonates with a broader audience, acknowledging and celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community in a public and influential platform.

These choices underscore Destileria Limtuaco’s dedication to breaking away from conventional norms, showcasing a range of personalities that embody the different aspects of beauty, individuality, and empowerment in the Philippine liquor industry.

Their decision to feature Pench aligns with their history of innovation and breaking boundaries. The brand, which has been an outlet for inclusivity since 2020, is making a significant cultural impact with this campaign. It’s a celebration of selfexpression as an art form, challenging the stigma around tattooed individuals and conveying that tattoos are a form of art and personal expression.

Angelie “Pench” Andanar ushers in the year as White Castle’s 2024 calendar girl

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2024

Marian Rivera is on a roll

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

Very Wang

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Nickie Wang

HE much-anticipated television series collaboration between Marian Rivera and Gabby Concepcion, initially planned over three years ago, faced a significant setback during the peak of the pandemic.

Marian had to withdraw from the project due to stringent shooting protocols that required the cast to be in lockdown for taping.

Now, they mark a fresh start with a familythemed show with a sci-fi twist titled My Guardian Alien. In the series, Marian plays an extraterrestrial who joins a loving Earth family, blending heartwarming moments with space-age intrigue.

The carefully crafted storyline explores an alien’s journey adapting to human relationships, raising high expectations for an engaging experience with their pairing.

Dingdong Dantes (left) and Marian are back on television screens with ‘Jose and Maria’s Bonggang Villa 2.0’

Kapuso actress Marian Rivera returns to the small screen

From left: Gabbi Garcia joins Carla Abellana and Bea Alonzo in the upcoming show ‘Widows’ War’

Joining Marian and Gabby is child actor Raphael Landicho, adding another layer of excitement to this project.

There’s a high chance that viewers will see Marian almost every day on television with another project.

Fresh from their massively successful Metro Manila Film Festival movie Rewind, Marian reunites on the small screen with her husband Dingdong Dantes in Jose and Maria’s Bonggang Villa 2.0, the sequel to their hit sitcom that aired on weekends. *** GMA unveils explosive 2024 lineup There are many things to look forward to now on GMA Network, especially on its primetime lineup.

Some of the biggest titles were revealed during the New Year Countdown last Sunday, where the network’s artists gathered at SM Mall Of Asia to welcome the new year.

Among the sneak peeks was a glimpse of the series starring the network’s biggest names including Alden Richards, Sanya Lopez, Barbie Forteza, and David Licauco. The series entitled Pulang Araw is set in World War II and revolves around the intertwining stories of four individuals who must make choices among country, family, friends, and love Jennylyn Mercado and Xian Lim also returns to primetime in Love. Die. Repeat. Jennylyn portrays Angela, who lost her husband in a car accident. Soon, she realizes she is stuck in a time loop and is forced to live the worst day of her life over and over again.

Jasmine Curtis-Smith and Rayver Cruz team up for the first time in Asawa Ng Asawa Ko. While Bea Alonzo, Gabbi Garcia, and Carla Abellana star in their first project together, Widows’ War. This show is about the struggles of a widow who

Gabby Concepcion stars opposite Marian in the series ‘My Guardian Alien’

mourns for her husband while facing allegations of murder.

Completing the primetime titles is A Lifetime With You, which centers on love found in a penal farm.

For the afternoon block, set to premiere this year is the local adaptation of K-drama Shining Inheritance. Leading the cast are Kate Valdez, Kyline Alcantara, Michael Sager, and Coney Reyes.

Jo Berry headlines Lilet Matias: Attorney-atLaw. Other titles include Mommy Dearest, A Mother’s Tale, A Family Like Us, Forever Young, and For the Love of Kobe.

Meanwhile, GMA Integrated News guarantees to deliver more special reporting that provides in-depth analyses of the issues of the day. Expect timely news documentaries that go behind the headlines and features that shine a light on thoughtprovoking topics to educate, inspire, and empower Filipino audiences across the Philippines and overseas.

Not to be missed is GMA Synergy’s continuing coverage of the country’s first athletic collegiate league—the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Celebrating a milestone year, NCAA Season 100 is bound to bring viewers more legendary and history-making moments in sports. Witness the glory and find out who will reign supreme with the live broadcast of Season 99 of Women’s Volleyball. Other sports competitions to watch are Men’s Junior Basketball, Beach Volleyball, Taekwondo, Track and Field, All-Star Volleyball, and the much-awaited Cheerleading Competition.

GMA Public Affairs also has a unique offering for GMA Afternoon Prime via Makiling. Starring Elle Villanueva and Derrick Monasterio, the series offers a tale of revenge and love, with also a strong message about respecting and caring for

Derrick Monasterio and Elle Villanueva return in the afternoon soap ‘Makiling’

the environment.

Senator Bong Revilla and Beauty Gonzalez continue their thrilling adventures in the second season of the action-comedy series Walang Matigas Na Pulis Sa Matinik Na Misis.

Also gunning for a second season is the reality game show Running Man Philippines. Meanwhile, GMA’s original singing competition, The Clash, once again searches for the best voices in the country. Moreover, after the success of The Voice Generations on GMA, a new series from The Voice franchise will launch in 2024.

Furthermore, GMA Public Affairs ups the ante in delivering world-class programs with enhanced storytelling techniques and intriguing plotlines.

Sci-fi fans who enjoy a dash of romance and drama should check out Version Two. The story explores both the uplifting and heartbreaking nature of memories. Helmed by the hit-making writer-director Irene Emma Vilamor, the film features the surprise pairing of two stars from different home networks. Watch it in cinemas and on major streaming platforms this 2024.

Another film coming in the new year is Penthouse 77, directed by Derick Cabrido. The psychological thriller confronts the horrors of homelessness in a city filled with skyscrapers and shanties.

New stories from across Asia are also coming this 2024 to bring kilig to the viewers. Watch out for Curtain Call, Royal Doctor, Agency, Beauty Newbie, Doctor Detective, The Long Ballad, The Heavenly Idol, Stealer: The Treasure Keeper, Hidden Love, and Love at First Night.

Jennylyn Mercado (left) pairs up with Xian Lim for the first time in ‘Love. Die. Repeat’

From left: Michael Sager, Coney Reyes, Kyline Alcantara, and Kate Valdez lead the Filipino adaptation of the Korean hit series ‘Shining Inheritance’

From left: ‘Pulang Araw’ stars David Licauco, Barbie Forteza, Sanya Lopez, and Alden Richards

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LIFE

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2024

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

ACCLAIMED Broadway singer and actress Lea Salonga will be the featured guest artist on the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square’s tour to the Philippines. This is the the second stop on the Choir’s world tour of Hope and the first visit by the Choir to the Philippines.

Salonga is a multiple award-winning actor and singer renowned across the world for her powerful voice and perfect pitch. She is acclaimed for her Tony Award–winning role in Miss Saigon.

In addition to the Tony, she has won the Olivier, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, and Theatre World Awards in the field of musical theatre.

Many fans of all ages recognize Salonga as the singing voice of Princess Jasmine from Aladdin and Fa Mulan for Mulan and Mulan II. She served as a judge on the Philippines’

Tabernacle Choir brings magic to Filipino audiences

hit version of The Voice, including the ratings juggernaut The Voice Kids. An avid techie and gamer, Salonga divides her time between Manila, Philippines, with her family and the United States.

Under the direction of Mack Wilberg, music director of the Choir, and Ryan Murphy, associate music director, the Hope concerts will be held from Feb. 20 to 29 and feature Salonga and the Choir performing a repertoire that reflects the musicality of the country. Filipinos are a nation of singing people whose choral tradition started centuries ago and continues today. Internationally, the Philippines has one of the highest viewerships of Music & the Spoken Word.

Salonga first performed with the Tabernacle Choir in December 2022 during the Season of Light: Christmas with The Tabernacle Choir

and Orchestra at Temple Square and Wilberg said he is looking forward to working with her again.

“It was a delight to have Lea Salonga share her extraordinary talents at our Christmas concert last year in Salt Lake City. It is an honor for the Choir to go to Lea’s home country to perform with her again and experience the kindness of the Filipino people,” he said.

Over the next four years, the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra will travel twice a year to different parts of the world. Choir president Michael O. Leavitt said, “Our goal is to magnify the Choir’s impact throughout the world by helping people feel God’s love for His children. Our performances will be free.

Many will be live-streamed so local congregations in the regions we visit can invite their friends and communities to participate.”

Broadway singer and actress Lea Salonga joins The Tabernacle Choir for the ‘Hope’ tour

A European kind of cultural engagement The Mabuhay Philippines program aims to nurture and spread cultural awareness of Philippine heritage

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ULTURAL exchanges and works shouldn’t be bounded by boundaries. Last year, the Cultural Exchange Department of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP CED) launched its Mabuhay Philippines program in some parts of Europe.

From Oct. 20 to Nov. 5, 2023, covering the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, and Italy, the Mabuhay Philippines program aims to create and nurture cultural awareness and art appreciation of Philippine heritage and traditions among overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and migrants through performances and workshops.

Now on its 5th edition, Mabuhay Philippines was first implemented in 2013, with the world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers doing concerts and workshops in Singapore and Hong Kong. In 2015, the CED facilitated the performance tour of CCP Gawad Awardee Barasoain Kalinangan Foundation, Inc. in various Filipino communities in Prague, Vienna, and Venice.

In 2018, the program brought the Song Weavers Philippines and Lahing Batangan Dance Troupe to Changwon City, South Korea for the Arirang Migrant Workers Cultural Festival. The program was wellreceived in the three countries, with OFWs and Filipino migrants expressing their appreciation.

In 2023, the first leg of the program brought the Song Weavers Philippines in June and July 2023 to Belgium, Germany, and France. The last leg was held in the Netherlands, Germany, and Spain with The Nightingales, a soprano duo composed of Bianca Camille Lopez and Keiko Cayanga.

The team was led by CCP CED manager Chinggay Bernardo who traveled with a small team composed of Alfred Samonte and Ian Aguila, with Profs. Cecile Mambuay and Lolito Pontillas, the facilitators for the Mindanao dance and theater workshops, and Marichelle Bernardo who handled the Puni leaf art workshop.

For each community that the Mabuhay Philippines program visited, a group of Filipinos took on the challenging tasks of arranging and coordinating

the venues, technical facilities, lodging, meals, and transportation for the eight-member touring party.

The tour was in partnership with the Filipino Catholic Community of Gouda, Team Blended of Bonn, the Philippine Catholic Community of Cologne, and the Parroquia Immaculada Concepción Y San Lorenzo Ruiz in Barcelona.

In Gouda South Holland, the Filipino Catholic Community (FCC), led by Amor Van Os, bridges faith with fellowship, enriching lives through Sunday Mass, service, and vibrant cultural events. Pinoys abroad, traditions kept alive.

On Oct. 23, a group of Filipinos from Rotterdam took a seven-hour trip to Bonn, Germany to attend a concert by The Nightingales.

The concert was held at the Missione Cattolica Italiana, Ursula Church, and was arranged by the Filipino Catholic Community of Cologne.

The Nightingales’ European tour finale was a joyous blend of nostalgia and celebration.

Classic songs, beloved Filipino folk tunes, and heartwarming Christmas carols touched audience’s hearts, while workshops and performances in Robert-Havemam Strasse connected with the local Filipino community.

From Puni leaf art to Mindanao dances, the program offered a vibrant taste of home,

leaving everyone feeling sentimental yet cheerful.

From Germany, the MP team traveled for 18 hours via Flix Bus and moved to Spain. After arriving in Barcelona, the team headed to the Parroquia Inmaculada Concepcion Y San Lorenzo Ruiz Church for their third engagement. Fr. Lino Castro, who hails from Alfonso, Cavite, hosted and presented the Mabuhay Philippines program in Barcelona.

Oct. 29 Mindanao arts event dazzled Kababayans in Barcelona. In Florence, they met Filipinos, sparking hopes for future Mabuhay Philippines collaborations.

Hats off to all the Pinoy hosts and organizers in the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, and Italy who have shown their admirable Filipino traits – resilient, hardworking, adaptable, bighearted, creative, patient, generous, and amusing. The team expressed their gratitude to all the partners and collaborators they have worked with. *** There was a Facebook post by a friend asking what our government has accomplished in 2023. I’m not sure about other agencies, but the Cultural Center of the Philippines worked hard and accomplished a lot, even with the meager budget that we had last year.

On average, the Cultural Center of the Philippines produced over 900 shows, projects, events, and other activities annually. It collaborated with more than a thousand artists, cultural workers, and technical crew. Read full column article on manilastandard.net

The Nightingales with Fr. Lino Castro (center), Alfred Samonte (left), and Chinggay Bernardo (right) in Barcelona, Spain

Puni workshop for kids in Gouda, Netherlands

The Nightingales with the Filipino Catholic Community of Cologne, Germany

CCP launches Dynamic January with art, music, and outreach THE Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) welcomes 2024 with a burst of cultural vibrancy, offering a rich program of exhibitions, performances, and outreach initiatives.

January promises an exceptional blend of art, culture, and surprises, ensuring a dynamic start to the year.

Explore art exhibitions and experience top performances at the CCP, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the richness of artistic expression.

The CCP Office of the President’s outreach program extends its cultural offerings to the provinces of Iloilo, Capiz, and Palawan. Featuring the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra and Teatrong Mulat, these projects aim to deepen public engagement and foster a genuine appreciation for arts and culture.

Highlighting the outreach events are the PPO Outreach Concerts in Iloilo (Jan. 19, at 6:00 p.m.) and Capiz (Jan. 21 at 6:00 p.m.), along with Teatrong Mulat in Palawan on Feb. 23 at 3:00 p.m. ang 7:00 p.m. Entrance to these events is complimentary.

Immerse in the cultural journey with the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra’s 39th Season – Concert V ‘Fate’ on Jan. 12 at 7:30 p.m., hosted at CCP’s Samsung Performing Arts Theater.

Under the baton of Maestro Grzegorz Nowak, the orchestra will present Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No.4 Op. 36 in F minor ‘Fate’ and Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 1 Op.15 in D minor, featuring renowned pianist Jerome Rose as the guest soloist. Tickets range from P500 to P5,000.

On Jan. 27 at 7:30 p.m., Daloy Dance Company and Joy Alpuerto Ritter present Joy & Daloy at Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez (CCP Black Box Theater). This one-night-only show features “ItikLandia” and “BABAE,” blending traditional Filipino elements with contemporary expressions. Tickets for this unique contemporary dance experience are priced at P1,500.

The CCP also hosts the ongoing exhibition Potential, Potency, and Women Printmakers at CCP@Iloilo, Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA), until March 30 with free admission.

Explore the vibrant realm of Philippine contemporary art with Selections from the 21st Century Art Museum Collection at CCP’s National Museum venue, running until November 2024 from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Tuesday to Sunday). This free exhibition showcases the evolution of artistic expression, spanning the 1960s to the 1980s.

Experience the interactive generative audio composition Bisita Planeta by Tad Ermitaño, available online through the 21st Century Art Museum (21AM) website, providing a unique exploration of new media art at no cost.

The Cultural Center of the Philippines extends its cultural offerings to the provinces of Iloilo, Capiz, and Palawan