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Pimentel to petition SC to nix P450b in unprogrammed funds

By Macon Ramos-Araneta, Maricel V. Cruz and Charles Dantes

petition before the Supreme Court this week to challenge as unconstitutional the additional P450 billion in unprogrammed funds in the 2024 SENATE Minority Leader Aquilino national budget.

Next page Pimentel III said he would file a

VOL. XXXVII • NO. 323 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024

Support for SHS ends—CHED DepEd: 17.7k Grade 12 pupils need to transfer from state schools

By Joyce Pangco Pañares, Charles Dantes, and Maricel Cruz

S

OME 17,700 incoming Grade 12 students will have to transfer from state and local universities and colleges (SUCs and LUCs) to private or public schools under the Department of Education for School Year 2024-25, DepEd spokesman Michael Poa said.

NGCP points to power plants for Panay provinces’ blackout

GENERATOR POWER. Residents of Iloilo City charge their phones through a generator set up at the Kerr Building in front of City Hall, while businesses did the same – as others persevered despite the dark (inset) -- as the city deals with a blackout throughout Panay Island that started Tuesday. Iloilo City PIO

This is after the Commission on Higher Education confirmed its decision to discontinue its Senior High School (SHS) program in SUCs and local universities and colleges as the transition period under the K-to-12 program has ended.

“Based on the reports of our regional directors, our public schools will be able to accommodate those Next page

COPS ARREST 5 IN P41-M HEIST NEWS / A2

FOUR NEW NAMES ON ’24 STORM LIST NEWS / A4

By Alena Mae S. Flores and Macon Ramos-Araneta

have led to the ongoing brownouts on the island, isolating it from the rest of the Visayas grid, the Energy RegulaTHE unplanned outages of power- tory Commission said Wednesday.

Consumers of Guimaras Electric generating units in Panay on Jan. 2

Cooperative Inc. (GUIMELCO), Iloilo Electric and Power Corporation I Electric Cooperative Inc. (ILECO (MORE Power) are currently experiI), Iloilo II Electric Cooperative Inc. encing power interruptions.

(ILECO II), Iloilo III Electric CoopERC already requested additional erative Inc. (ILECO III), and MORE Next page

‘Drastic reduction’ of rides, higher fares loom under PUVMP—group

By Rio N. Araja and Macon Ramos-Araneta COMMUTERS must brace for a “drastic reduction” of public utility vehicles as well as a surge in the minimum fare to as high as P50 in the next five years from the current P13 with the government’s PUV Modern-

ization Program.

“Even if you tap a local manufacturer, the cheapest modern unit could cost about P900,000 to P1 million,” said Julius Dulay, chairperson of the group Commuters of the Philippines.

“The expenses would be passed on to the commuters. We have to bear the Next page

NO CLIMBING ‘ANDAS’ IN ‘TRASLACION’ NEWS / A2 BLESSING THE IMAGES. Priests from the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno bless images of the Black Nazarene paraded in front of the Quiapo Church – even ones held by children (inset) -- during the start of the two-day blessing and procession of the replicas owned by the devotees on Wednesday. Norman Cruz and Danny Pata

the country to probe the bloody antiillegal drug campaign of the Duterte administration.

Fernando Perito filed the petition before the Regional Trial Court of Calbayog City as a member of the legal profession and was joined by

NEW YORK— The president of Harvard University resigned Tuesday after coming under ferocious attack over plagiarism accusations and her response to Claudine Gay anti-Semitism on campus amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Claudine Gay was criticized in recent months after reports surfaced alleging that she did not properly cite scholarly

Next page

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Lawyer, OFW ask court to expel ICC officials probing PH drug war

By Rey E. Requejo A LAWYER and an overseas Filipino worker have asked the Supreme Court to stop the entry of personalities connected with the International Criminal Court (ICC), or order their immediate deportation if they are already here in

Harvard boss quits over anti-Semitism, plagiarism issues TSUNAMI DAMAGE. Vehicles sit piled up after being washed up by a tsunami in the city of Suzu, Ishikawa prefecture on Jan. 3 after a major 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck the Noto region in Ishikawa prefecture on New Year’s Day. AFP

Japan quake-tsunami toll up to 64 amid heavy rain, landslides in Noto WAJIMA, Japan—Japanese rescuThe 7.5-magnitude quake on January ers scrambled to search for survivors 1 that rattled Ishikawa prefecture on the Wednesday as authorities warned of land- main island of Honshu triggered tsunami slides from heavy rain after a powerful waves more than a meter high, sparked a earthquake that killed at least 64 people.

Next page

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GSIS eyes ‘no down’ housing plan

By Darwin G. Amojelar

T

HE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) on Wednesday said it is planning to roll out a “no down payment” housing program for government employees.

“We are putting together a housing program for government employees, and this is something that will be a game changer because there’s no down payment that we’re going to ask from them,” Arnulfo Veloso, GSIS president,

said in an interview with ANC. “We’re also coming up with pabahay (housing) in our government or GSIS properties, one is in Fairview, and the other one is in Cogeo,” he added.

Veloso said the GSIS already distrib-

uted nearly 900 titles through its lease with an option to buy program.

He added that the GSIS is in talks with other government agencies to offer medical insurance for their workers.

Veloso also said that they will further enhance the agency’s Multi-Purpose Loan (MPL) Flex, which provides a 6 percent interest rate and a more extended, flexible payment period ranging from one to 15 years.

As of Dec. 21, GSIS has disbursed more than P705 billion since the loan

program launched in October 2020.

The granting of MPL loans steadily increased in 2022 after the closure of the GSIS Financial Assistance Loan Program and the extension of the payment term to 10 years.

Veloso also expressed optimism about a “stronger” 2024.

For 2023, Veloso said GSIS net income will hit more than P100 billion.

“We’re optimistic [that we will] finish [with] more than P100 billion this year,” he said.

Kids over 10 must Cops nab 5 suspects in P41m Ozamiz jewelry robbery consent to new adoptions—SC

By Rey E. Requejo THE Supreme Court recently ruled that petitions for adoption should have the consent of the adopters’ children who are 10 years or older, for the adoption to be valid.

“Consent of the adopter’s other children is necessary as it ensures harmony among the prospective siblings. It also sufficiently puts the other children on notice that they will have to share their parent’s love and care… with another person,” the Court ruled in a decision promulgated Aug. 7 and made public on Dec. 28.

It reiterated the Court’s ruling rendered in 2014.

The decision written by Associate Justice Maria Filomena D. Singh denied the petition filed by the adopter, and instead, it affirmed the June 22, 2021 decision and the Sept. 6, 2022 resolution of the Court of Appeals, which upheld the revised ruling of the regional trial court.

The case arose from the petition by a mother who filed a petition for the adoption of a minor who had been abandoned by her biological mother.

In May 2016, the adopter and her husband filed before the RTC a petition for adoption and correction of entries in the birth record of Jo.

Pimentel...

From A1 “The target is this week, but of course, it depends on the lawyers’ readiness,” Pimentel said about the timing of his petition.

He also said he has been talking to a member of the House of Representatives who wants to join him in filing a case.

Earlier, Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman said he agreed with Pimentel on the “fatal defects” brought about by the unprogrammed funds, but the senator said it wasn’t Lagman he was talking to.

Pimentel said the budget ran afoul of the Constitution on two counts. The first, he said, is that there should be no expenditures from public coffers without an appropriation made by law.

The other provision is that Congress cannot increase the appropriation set by the President.

“Of course, we will include additional arguments to include the presidential certification of urgency,” Pimentel said, complaining that the final budget could not be scrutinized because it is thousands of pages long.

Harvard...

From A1 sources. The most recent accusations came Tuesday, published anonymously in a conservative online outlet.

Gay was also engulfed by scandal after she declined to say unequivocally whether calling for the genocide of Jews would violate Harvard’s code of conduct, during testimony to Congress alongside the heads of MIT and the University of Pennsylvania last month.

Gay, who made history as the first Black person to be president of the powerhouse university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, said in her resignation letter that she’d been subjected to personal threats and “racial animus.”

POLICE have arrested five of as many as eight suspected robbers who allegedly dug through a popular shopping mall in Ozamiz City on New Year’s Eve, with their stolen loot totaling at least ₱41 million.

The Ozamiz City Police named one of the suspects on Wednesday as they filed charges against five workers from a small amusement park located beside Gaisano Mall. It said a co-worker and a regular bettor pointed to the identity of the burglars.

Major Euridecy Revillas, deputy police chief of Ozamiz City, told Rappler they arrested April John Permanhil, a carnival worker whom they suspect helped the thieves in tunneling to the Gaisano shopping mall on Dec. 31.

Revillas said they are also looking into three persons of interest who were caught on CCTV cameras breaking into the vaults of GKC Jewelry Shop and Oro Italia Fine Jewelry Shop within the mall.

The thieves also forcibly opened the MetroBank automated teller machine (ATM) inside the mall, Revillas added.

“A witness gave a statement that their co-workers are behind the crime. We retrieved the clothes they were wearing during the incident and the tools they used to carry out the crime,” investigator PSMS Mark Alvin Pacatang told CNN Philippines in a phone interview.

Support...

From A1 that will have to transfer,” Poa told Manila Standard in an interview.

“But of course, students have the option to transfer to private schools and they will be allowed to avail of the Senior High School Voucher Program,” he said.

The 17,700 Grade 11 students currently enrolled in SUCs and LUCs for School Year 2023-24 are all non-voucher recipients, Poa said.

The voucher program is a form of financial assistance that allows students to

NGCP...

From A1 data from grid operator National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) and the concerned generation companies to assist in the review of the outage incidents.

“The ERC understands the inconvenience this situation has caused to the consumers of Panay, and we assure the public that every effort is being made to restore power as quickly

‘Drastic...

From A1 brunt of it,” he added.

Sonny Africa, IBON Foundation executive director, earlier projected a massive fare hike in the coming years, citing the country’s experience following the privatization of water and power services.

Japan...

From A1 major fire, and tore apart roads.

The Noto Peninsula on the Sea of Japan coast was most severely hit, with buildings ravaged by fire and houses flattened in several towns, including Wajima and Suzu, as shown by beforeand-after satellite images.

The regional government announced Wednesday that 62 people had been confirmed dead and more than 300 in-

IN BRIEF No climbing ‘andas’ during Traslacion A PRELATE of the Quiapo Church on Wednesday reminded devotees that climbing the “andas” (carriage) of the Black Nazarene icon will be prohibited during this “Traslacion” to celebrate its feast on Jan. 9.

In a video message, Rev. Fr. Jesus Madrid Jr., parochial vicar, said the public will no longer be allowed to climb the andas to wipe the image with cloth, towel, or handkerchief.

Devotees, however, are allowed to throw towels, cloth, or handkerchiefs which would then be wiped for them by members of the Hijos del Nazareno, who are on the carriage, Madrid said.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) meanwhile started its security preparations for the religious event.

In a statement, PCG Commandant, Adm. Ronnie Gavan directed PCG District National Capital Region - Central Luzon to support the Philippine National Police in implementing security operations. Vince Lopez

Four new names on ’24 storm list

JEWELRY STORE HEIST.

Police investigators cordon off the selling area of a jewelry store at the Gaisano Mall in Ozamiz City after a group of robbers, caught on CCTV cameras (inset), carted away with P41 million in cash and jewelry on Tuesday Night. PNP Photos

The police said the robbers dug a tunnel from the fair’s compound to a nearby drainage, leading up to Gaisano Mall’s food court area. Pacatang said the robbers’ entry and exit points weren’t easily visible.

“We weren’t able to find their exit point on the side of the mall. Our personnel went through the tunnel. The exit point was in the back part of the fair.

People won’t see it because they passed through the drainage,” Pacatang said.

claim as much as a 100-percent discount Cordillera Administrative Region. on their private school fees.

For his part, CHED chairperson Prospero de Vera III said: “The tran“The plan really was for the voucher sition period is over and the SUCs are program to end by School Year 2020 to full. They need to use the rooms and 2021. This is also the reason why DepEd teachers. There’s no basis for SUCs and stopped issuing vouchers for Grade 11 LUCs to offer SHS anymore,” he said. students enrolled in SUCs and LUCs for The Alliance of Concerned Teachers the School Year 2023-24,” he said. is worried if public high schools can ac“In fact, there are regions now that commodate all the senior high school have no senior high learners in SUCs students transferring to them. and LUCs so no one will have to transVladimer Quetua, ACT National Chairfer in the incoming school year in these person, said this could lead to regular Saturregions,” the DepEd official added. day classes, a third shift in schools already He said the bulk of the incoming running morning and afternoon shifts or Grade 12 students from SUCs and worse, “double congestion” in classrooms.

LUCs are from Metro Manila and the “That is part of our fears that our ed-

THE Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) will use a new set of storm names this year for tropical cyclones that will form within or enter the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR).

“Aghon,” “Querubin,” “Romina,” and “Upang” are being used for the first time, the state weather bureau said. They take the places of storm names Ambo, Quinta, Rolly, and Ulysses which brought severe damage in 2020.

If there are more than 25 storms in a year, PAGASA can refer to an auxiliary list of 10 other names.

Storm names repeat every four years unless retired.

PAGASA retires or decommissions a storm name if it causes at least 300 deaths or P1 billion in damage to agriculture, infrastructure, houses, and other assets. Rio Araja

PAO chief ranks high io SWS Senate poll

as possible,” ERC chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta said.

NGCP, for its part, renewed its call for a whole-of-industry approach, including better energy resource planning, following the power outage due to the tripping of multiple power plants.

“The unscheduled maintenance shutdowns of the largest power plants in Panay island were the primary cause of the power interruption. We emphasize the need for improved planning to ensure sufficient generation per island,

with a well-balanced mix of fuels and technology,” NGCP said.

NGCP said three of the largest powergenerating units were among those that suffered multiple trippings on Jan. 2 -Panay Energy Development Corp. Unit 1 and 2 (83 megawatts each), and Palm Concepcion Power Corp. (135MW).

Along with the planned maintenance shutdown of PEDC Unit 3 (150MW), at least 68.75 percent or 451MW of the total 656MW in-island generation was lost in the Panay sub-grid.

PUBLIC Attorney’s Office chief Persida Acosta has ranked no. 6 among the senatorial preferences in the National Capital Region, according to a Social Weather Station’s Fourth Quarter 2023 national survey.

For the whole Philippines, Acosta ranked no. 9 in the survey, which was conducted from Dec. 8-11.

Former vice president Jejomar Binay topped the list of 44 bets in the commissioned survey, followed by Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, ex-senator Gringo Honasan, Senator Francis Tolentino, ex-senator Richard Gordon, and Acosta in the sixth place.

The SWS asked 1,200 adults (18 years and above) for an error margin of plus-minus 3 percent for national percentages and plus-minus 6 percent for Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao at the 95 percent confidence level. Rio Araja

“Fares will be kept low at maybe P15 to P20 or even P25 for the first three to five years. But we fully expect that in five years or more, it will hit about P45 to P50,” he told ANC’s Headstart program.

“Our basic computation there was that if it’s corporatized, you not only have pressure to repay the loans for the higher expense jeeps, but it is also the increased profit motive, premium

being added to the fares on top of that,” Africa added.

Dulay said their group shared the same concern.

“We do not only see fare increases but that there would also be a drastic reduction in the number of PUVs. The number of PUVS could not be able to meet passenger demand,” Dulay said.

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino

Pimentel III, for his part, urged IBON Foundation to share its study that was the basis of its fare hike forecast.

“Definitely, this (PUV Modernization Program) has an effect on transport fares because the expenses to maintain the new system being proposed would be greater,” the senator said.

“It’s an immediate expense. There will be debt,” he added.

jured, 20 of them seriously.

The toll was expected to climb as rescuers battle aftershocks and poor weather to comb through rubble.

More than 31,800 people were in shelters, and at least 200 buildings had collapsed, with the number expected to rise, the government said.

“More than 40 hours have passed since the disaster. We have received a lot of information about people in need of rescue and there are people waiting for help,” Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Wednesday after an emergency task force meeting.

Lawyer...

From A1

war is governed by the provisions of the country’s Constitution, existing laws, and criminal procedures.

“With all our laws and rules, policies in order, are we to succumb to international pressure to ignore our existing laws, rules, and procedures, simply because that international court is so powerful?” the petition stated.

The petitioners challenged human rights advocates to prove their claim that there were at least 30,000 killings during anti-illegal drug operations by filing complaints before the country’s courts.

OFW Joseph Forrosuelo.

In their 12-page petition, they sought the issuance of a preliminary injunction barring ICC investigators and officers from entering the country to investigate the killings related to the past administration’s anti-illegal drug war.

Perito argued that any investigation, prosecution, trial, and resolution of cases concerning the anti-illegal drug

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DBM releases P550m for new NKTI building

ENGINE CHECK.

A driver checks his jeepney’s engine at a terminal in Jordan Plains, Sta. Monica, Quezon City on Wednesday. The government said traditional jeepneys with unconsolidated franchises will be allowed to operate until Jan. 31. A local manufacturer is reportedly offering electric jeepneys for less than P1 million per unit.

Manny Palmero

By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released P550 million to cover the funding requirements for the Out-Patient Department (OPD) Building of the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI).

“What our President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. always says, no Filipino should be deprived of quality health care. That’s why we continuously give high regard to our health care facilities, more importantly, our specialty hospitals like NKTI,” DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said.

The funds will be used for the construction and expansion of NKTI’s OPD Building, which is designed to be a onestop shop for the hospital’s social services, including diagnostic and surgical facilities.

By specializing in the treatment and prevention of kidney and allied diseases, the NKTI said it is “amplifying” its capabilities through the construction of the proposed 8-storey OPD Building.

The facility will provide areas for the expansion of outpatient services of the hospital with a total cost of P1.331 billion.

DSWD issues guarantee letters for crisis victims PH monitoring Japan Airlines crash reports

By Rey E. Requejo THE Philippine Embassy in Tokyo on Wednesday said it was still trying to reach out to Japan Airlines to check if there are Filipinos onboard its aircraft that caught fire on Tuesday.

Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene Garcia-Albano said her office has “not been able to get that information despite persistent efforts to reach out to Japan Airlines and Haneda Airport Police.”

“We’ve actually been able to contact them since 7 o’clock yesterday until 11 o’clock, and the information that they gave us was they are not able to give out that information because of privacy issues,” Albano said, in an interview with CNN Philippines.

But Albano said that the embassy remains persistent in reaching out to relevant parties as there might be Filipinos onboard whose travel documents might have been burned and need a new one.

Nonetheless, the Philippine embassy has already posted an advisory saying that Filipinos onboard flight 516 who need assistance may contact the Assistance-to-Nationals Unit at (+81) 804928-7979.

A total of 379 passengers of Japan Airlines flight number 516 from Hokkaido to Tokyo managed to flee from their burning aircraft upon landing after it collided with another plane and burst into flames.

By Maricel V. Cruz

HE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has resumed the issuance of Guarantee Letters (GLs) under the department’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

T

A GL is a document issued by the DSWD in favor of the beneficiary addressed to service providers to guarantee the payment of the service on behalf of the client, particularly their medical and burial expenses.

DSWD Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs Irene Dumlao, who is also the agency co-spokesperson, said clients may now proceed to the different DSWD Field Offices to process their requests for GL. “Our kababayans who are experiencing difficult circumstances and needing as-

sistance for their medical, and funeral expenses, may now avail of and request for a guarantee letter from DSWD,” Dumlao said on Wednesday.

Dumlao reminded the public to ensure that their documents are complete and that they have valid identification cards for faster processing of their requests.

“The amount of assistance under GL is based on the assessment of a social worker through interview and document review,” Dumlao pointed out.

In December 2023, DSWD offices nationwide temporarily suspended the issuance of GL to give way to its annual liquidation and completion of payment to service providers who already extended assistance to beneficiaries.

While the issuance of GL has resumed, the DSWD also announced that the provision of outright cash to clients has been temporarily suspended starting January 2 based on the existing guidelines of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

“The suspension of the provision of outright cash under AICS is done at the start of every fiscal year while waiting for the downloading of the DSWD budget based on the provision of the General Appropriations Act or GAA,” the DSWD official explained.

ASSISTANCE.

Malabon Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, other officials, and representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-NCR) distribute relief goods to fire victims in Barangay Panghulo Covered Court in Malabon City.

Andrew Rabulan

MRT ridership grows 30% in 2023—DOTr

By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Wednesday said that ridership on the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 3 grew by 30 percent in 2023 compared to a year ago.

The agency said MRT3 passengers reached 129.03 million last year which was higher than the 98.33 million passengers in 2022.

Transport Assistant Secretary for Railways and MRT-3 officer-in-charge Jorjette B. Aquino attributed the increase in ridership to the rail line’s enhanced reliability and effective maintenance program, alongside the increased return of more passengers to on-site work.

“The MRT-3 served as a reliable partner to more commuters who returned to on-site work in 2023, and needed a fast and dependable mode of transport. The continued effective maintenance and upkeep of MRT-3’s rehabilitated subsystems contributed to the improved reliability and efficiency of the rail line. Our trains now receive necessary preventive maintenance and upkeep on time, while other subsystems such as tracks, signaling, and power are also properly maintained,” Aquino said.

“All of these enhancements translated to improvements in MRT-3 operations.

Travel time is now only 30 to 45 minutes from North Avenue Station to Taft Avenue Station. Headway is also at as low as 3.5 minutes to 4 minutes during peak hours, with 18 train sets operating,” she added.

The MRT-3 completed its massive rehabilitation in December 2021, which increased its operating speed from 30kph to the original 60kph. The rehabilitation was carried out by MRT-3’s original builder and maintenance provider, SumitomoMHI-TESP.

Magnitude 5.3 earthquake jolts Surigao del Sur

By Rio N. Araja

‘HERO OF THE YEAR.’

Police Executive Master Sergeant Paquito Chan was accorded the ‘Hero of the Year Award’ for his civic actions by the Gawad ng Pilipino, a nonstock, non profit organization.

Roy Tomandao

A MAGNITUDE 5.3 earthquake jolted the waters off Surigao del Sur on Wednesday morning.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said the epicenter of the shallow tremor was located 32 kilometers southeast of Hinatuan town.

Amagnitude7.4tremorrockedMindanao in early December and killed three people.

Phivolcs confirmed that Wednesday’s quake was an aftershock of the magnitude 7.4 event.

An intensity 5 quake was felt at around 9:11 a.m. in Bislig City.

Following the November and December earthquakes, the Davao City government through its Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) meanwhile gave financial assistance to the province and towns under state of calamity in Surigao del Sur. In an interview, CDRRMO officer-incharge Alfredo Baloran said P2.5 million was given to the affected areas, with the Surigao del Sur provincial government receiving P1 million, while the rest of the municipalities received P300,000 each.

Baloran said the assistance was handed over to the affected local government units (LGU) on Dec. 21 and Dec. 22.

“CDRRMO was tasked to hand over the financial assistance from the City Government of Davao to the municipalities of Hinatuan and Cagwait in Surigao del Sur. The province of Surigao del Sur also received financial aid from the city,” Baloran said.

The towns of Alabel, Malapatan, and Glan in Sarangani province were also recipients of the city government’s financial aid, he added.

“Actually, extending financial assistance to LGUs in state of calamity is already a practice of the City Government of Davao. This is an initiative of our local chief executive using our quick response funds for disasters,” he said.

Calabarzon cop receives ‘Hero of the Year Award’

By Roy Tomandao CALAMBA CITY—A member of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion based in Camp Macario Sakay in Los Baños, Laguna was accorded the “Hero of the Year Award” by the Gawad ng Pilipino, a nonstock, nonprofit organization.

Police Executive Master Sergeant Paquito Chan was given the award together with AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner, PNP Chief Gen Benjamin Acorda Jr., Lt.

Col. Joseph Ross Jocson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Lt. Col. Jerry Castillo, Station 4 Commander of the Quezon City Police on Dec. 27, 2023 at the AFP Commissioned Officers Club at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

According to Dr. Danilo Mangahas, President of Gawad Pilipino, the said officers including Chan earned the award for displaying patriotism, valor, and fidelity.

As such, Chan also earned the “Goodwill Ambassador of the Philippine Na-

tional Police” from the organization.

Last Christmas, Chan distributed gifts for the residents of NIA Road, Brgy 2-G, Malagasang, Imus City, and about 150 persons with disabilities from Barangay Salinas I, Bacoor City as part of his continuous humanitarian mission.

Chan was also recently the recipient of the Gawad Agila as “The Most Excellent Leader in Humanitarian Service” and the National Police Commission Service Award for his civic actions.

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Fireworks kill 4, injure 557 amid New Year gaiety

By Macon Ramos-Araneta THE Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday said it is still verifying police reports that four persons died from fireworks related incidents (FWRI) during the New Year’s Day revelries.

The DOH also reported that 114 new fireworks-related cases were recorded during the 24-hour period ending on 6 a.m. January 3, 2024.

“The reports of the PNP are always subject to validation/confirmation by the DOH for purposes of epidemiology. We strictly adhere to standards for our comparable data,” the agency said.

As of Tuesday, the DOH had confirmed only one death due to stray bullet.

The DOH also said the youngest victim was now a 10-month old baby boy in Metro Manila whose right eye was injured when a family member lit a firework at home.

The oldest on record was a 77-year old man from the Ilocos Region who suffered burns caused by a whistle bomb.

“Household use of fireworks is a risk not only to yourself but also to your family,” Health Secretary Herbosa warned.

“Our data further strengthens this observation.” he added.

The 114 new cases were all injuries due to fireworks.

The victims were aged 10 months to 77-year old with nearly nine out of ten of them being males.

One hundred eleven or 97 percent of the new cases occurred at home and in the streets, more than 50 percent of which were due to “legal fireworks.”

Ten victims were hospitalized for their injuries.

The DOH chief urged the public to think twice before lighting a firework for their own personal safety as well as for their loved ones.

As the holiday season draws to a close, the DOH said it continues to gather pertinent data on fireworks-related incidents which could be used to formulate safety measures for future holiday celebrations.

So far, the DOH has logged 557 injuries overall, including one case of Watusi ingestion, and one case of injury by a stray bullet.

Most of the cases took place in Metro Manila, followed by the Ilocos Region with 55.1 percent, Central Luzon with 42.8 percent, and CALABARZON WITH 39.7 percent, the DOH records showed.

BI: It’s annual report time for foreigners in PH

By Vito Barcelo THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) urges foreigners residing in the Philippines to report for the 2024 yearly list-up which started on January 2.

BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco explained that under the law, aliens holding immigrant and non-immigrant visas, and were issued an alien certificate of registration identity card (ACR I-Card) are required to present themselves to the bureau for the first 60 days of the year for the Annual Report.

The reporting period will expire on March 1, 2024.

To streamline the process, the BI has outlined specific requirements, including a completely filled-out online registration accessible via the BI’s e-services website.

The foreign nationals must also present their original valid ACR I-Card with valid visas, along with a valid passport.

BI alien registration division chief Jose Carlitos Licas said exempted from physically reporting to the BI are foreign nationals who are below 14 years old, those 60 years old and above, those mentally or physically incapacitated, pregnant women, and those with medical conditions.

The physical Annual Report for the BI’s head office will be conducted at the 3rd Level Center Atrium, Robinsons Manila, and at the Government Service Express (GSE) Unit of SM Mall of Asia, from Mondays to Fridays, excluding holidays, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Apart from the two malls, BI offices nationwide may also cater to the reporting aliens.

Licas said that for the first day, a total of 899 foreigners registered through the Robinsons Manila and SM Mall of Asia outreach sites.

Tansingco also said as part of BI’s modernization projects, they have initiated the virtual annual report for registered foreign nationals present in the Philippines during the annual report period.

The virtual option, Tansingco said, aims to provide convenience while maintaining compliance through an online registration platform.

NEW ENVOYS TO MANILA. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomes Socialist Republic of Vietnam Ambassador to the Philippines Lai Thai Binh (left) who called on the Philippine leader at Malacanang on Wednesday. Inset shows the President receiving the credentials of Timor-Leste Ambassador Marciano Octavio Garcia Da Silva. PPA Pool

Makati exec scores Taguig on EMBO health centers A MAKATI City official on Wednesday claimed that Taguig City had known beforehand that the community health centers in the 10 EMBO barangays needed a license to operate, but failed to act on it despite a written reminder from the Department of Health (DOH).

According to Makati City administrator Claro Certeza, the Taguig City officials have been apprised of the need to secure the license to operate the EMBO health centers before it was announced by the Makati officials.

Taguig was also informed about the matter by the Metro Manila Center for Health Development (MMCHD) of the DOH through a letter dated Nov. 21, 2023, but no action was taken about it, Certeza said.

In that letter, the DOH reminded Taguig about the need to apply for the

renewal of the license to operate the EMBO health centers with the DOH Regulation, Licensing and Enforcement Division in order to ensure uninterrupted delivery of health care services to the local residents.

Certeza called out the Taguig officials for erroneously blaming the Makati government for the closure of barangay health centers in the ten EMBO barangays that were transferred to Makati based on a Supreme Court ruling.

“Isn’t it ridiculous how Taguig (officials) were trying to make it appear they

were being pressured by Makati.. Now, who is in fact sacrificing the lives and welfare of EMBO residents for political interest?” Certeza asked.

He clarified that the DOH requires a license to operate the health facilities that provide diagnostic services, adding that the health centers in the EMBO barangays offer both consultation and diagnostic services.

“Malamang ay konsultasyon lang ang ibinibigay na serbisyo ng health centers ng Taguig kaya hindi nila alam na kailangan ng license to perate (It is very likely that the Taguig health centers offer only consultation that is why they did not know they needed a license to operate),” Certeza noted.

He also assailed Taguig’s outright rejection of Makati’s proposals aimed to ensure continuity of health services in the affected barangays.

FEATHERED PETS FOR SALE. Multi-

colored birds for sale capture the curiosity of a toddler whose family stayed overnight at the Rizal Park in Luneta, Ermita, Manila.

Yancy Lim

NTF-ELCAC downplays Reds’ armed struggle

By Vince Lopez THE National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) said on Wednesday, January 3, that there are no more active guerilla fronts in the NPA (New People’s Army) which he said are “on their last leg.”

THERE are no more guerrilla active fronts in the ranks of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, according to the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

NTF-ELCAC executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. said that there are only 14 “weakened” guerilla fronts left in the communist armed struggle.

“Ensuring their total dismantling will be our prerequisite for us to initiate our next steps in ensuring peace,” Torres said.

According to the NTF-ELCAC chief, six more guerilla fronts were totally dismantled recently.

Torres said the total dismantling of the insurgency fronts will help in the continuation of the task force’s localized peace engagements.

Meanwhile, the National Security Council (NSC) on Wednesday slammed the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) following the rebel group’s statement on its 55th anniversary.

“The Party outlines tasks to strengthen the NPA and the revolutionary armed struggle, and carry forward the revolutionary mass movement, and the people’s struggles against the US-Marcos regime,” the CPP said.

NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya brushed aside the CPP statement in light of on-going exploratory peace negotiations between the two sides.

Malaya said instead of calling for cessation of their armed struggle in its anniversary statement, the CPP doubled down on its commitment in pushing their insurgency movement.

Solon foresees increased rice production despite prolonged dry spell

By Maricel V. Cruz A LEGISLATOR on Wednesday expressed optimism that the country’s rice production would further improve this year despite the expected prolonged dry spell, due to the El Nino phenomenon.

Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Bryan RaymundYamsuan based his optimism

on the P31 billion government subsidy earmarked for palay farmers under the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

A total of P30,889,904,000 has been allocated for the National Rice Program (NRP) of the Department of Agriculture (DA) under the national budget, up by more than half-a-billion pesos from last year’s P30,296,993,000.

Yamsuan, a member of the House Committee on Appropriations, said the budget for the NRP is on top of the allocations for other national initiatives related to rice production and locally funded projects to benefit palay producers under the GAA. Small rice producers are also assured of cash aid of over P15 billion from the 2023 tariff collections from rice im-

ports, Yamsuan noted.

Under the law, rice import tariff collections in excess of P10 billion should go directly to farmers tilling two hectares of land and below in the form of cash grants.

As of November 2023, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) has collected P25.55 billion, representing a surplus of at least P15.5 billion that will go to small rice planters this year, Yamsuan said.

22 airports to get fresh funds under GAA

BACK TO THE BIG CITY. Light to moderate traffic of vehicles going back to the so-

called Big City after spending the New Year in the provinces north of Metro Manila wait for their turn at the North Luzon Expressway Bocaue Toll Plaza in Bulacan. NLEX management deployed some 1,500 personnel to help ease the congestions at the toll booths of the expressway. Manny Palmero

A LAWMAKER on Wednesday bared the list of 22 airports nationwide bound to receive fresh funding under the national government’s Aviation Transport Infrastructure Program as embodied in the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA)..

“The new funding allocations per airport are itemized in the 2024 General Appropriations Law,” Makati Rep. Luis Campos said in a statement.

Campos identified the 22 airports and their corresponding allocations for new infrastructure spending as the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for a new Communications,Navigation and Surveillance-Air Traffic Management (CNS-ATM) System, P1.64 billion; PagAsa Island Airport, P1.5 billion; Kalibo

International Airport, P581 million; Laoag International Airport, P500 million; Bukidnon Airport, P320 million; Puerto Princesa Airport, P300 million; New Zamboanga International Airport, P300 million; Central Mindanao (M’lang) Airport, P300 million; Catbalogan Airport, P250 million; Daet Airport, P225 milllion; New Manila International Airport, P200 million; Candon Airport, P200 million; Borongan Airport, P200 million; Iloilo International Airport, P190 million; Tuguegarao Airport, P150 million; Bacon Airport, P100 million; Maasin Airport, P100 million; Tandag Airport, P100 million; Jolo Airport, P100 million; Mati Airport, P100 million; Surigao Airport, P80 million; and Vigan Airport, P70 million. Maricel V. Cruz

A6

OPINION

THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024

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

EDITORIAL

Reprieve for PUV operators

So I See

Lito Banayo

The morning after AFTER celebrating the longest holiday season in the universe, from the ‘-ber’ months that were hotter this year than any other, and after the ear-splitting cacophony of crazy fireworks, the morning after is upon us.

It is that period in our lives when, getting back to face reality, we begin pondering over the prospects of the ‘new’ year, amid continuing violence in the Holy Land, a protracted war in the Ukraine and, closer to home, the tensions in the China Sea and the Taiwan Strait.

The reputable polling outfits ended the year by releasing findings which may have seemed strange to foreigners, but expected in these ‘happy’ isles, that Filipinos look to the coming year with an incurably optimistic outlook, filled with “pag-asa.”

The wise and experienced Ronnie Zamora of San Juan, once the brilliant workhorse of the president’s father in Malacanang, has always described the Filipino as “never serious.” Ever hopeful, ever laughing through it all.

—“—

Warmer temperatures are the enemy of all food products, and no amount of BSP interest rate hikes can correct supply deficits

While the events in Eastern Europe and the Levant continue to impact negatively on our economy, it was our internal diseconomies that hounded the ordinary among us in this “land of the morning.”

Inflation, hunger among the poorest, unrest and near-despair in the transport sector, minimal employment that our government still tout as “gains,” worsening poverty, a legislature concerned only with its pork and greedy percentages, a peripatetic president given to nice-sounding speeches and promises, and a politics that has gotten more controlled by the privileged few -- all these continue to make our beautiful islands as benighted as could be.

As every new year unfolds, we find that things have not changed, “walang pagbabago,” despite all the promises of a ‘New Society’ re-branded as “Bagong Pilipinas.”

Sure, there have been some changes,

from the “volte face” in foreign policy back to the embrace of the US of A; a gentler ‘war’ against drugs; a more docile traditional media though fake news still abound; passports released much faster; the LTO now has vehicle plates after a long drought of inefficiency; a refreshing focus on culture not seen since Imelda; even a more liberal atmosphere recently exemplified by a kinder government stand over the LGBTQ+A community.

Harnessing street-smart, business-oriented persons to government is a most welcome change.

So now that the morning after (January 2) has come, how does this writer see 2024?

Inflation, especially on food prices, will bedevil us throughout the year, with rice giving us the biggest headache. Lower production in the last season caused prices to perk up, but expect it to climb further upwards in 2024.

Meteorologists warn about a severe El Nino, which will impact not only upon the country, but most of the world as well.

The law of supply and demand will then take over, with the major exporters limiting supply and raising prices.

The summer harvest here will be much lower, and unless we are able to import more and at the right time, a feat too difficult even with India allowing us to buy 295,000 tons, we could be seeing (pray it does not happen) long queues for the staple mid-2024.

(My grandmother, who grew up in Bulacan and used to have a rice farm there, and my grand-uncle who for the longest time milled palay in Pangasinan, told us that whenever “mahal na araw” came in March rather than April, expect harvests to be low. El Nino will give us scientific reason for that this year).

Warmer temperatures are the enemy of all food products, and no amount of BSP interest rate hikes can correct supply deficits.

Strict monetary policy though will affect business expansion, especially for the MSME’s, and Maharlika, despite the brilliance and work ethic of Joel Consing and his board, shall not be able to help out in 2024.

Despite a huge budget which Congress approved with much breast-beating, the legacy debt from Covid and other concerns will continue to hound efforts at government spending to tilt the balance for low investments and even reduced consumer spending, for years and years the savior of our GDP. The stock market will still be listless.

The fiscal deficit will be bigger. And the 14.8 trillion debt will grow bigger. Read full article on manilastandard.net

About Town

Ernesto M. Hilario

The tasks ahead IN 2023, the Marcos Jr. administration focused on economic recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic that brought the Philippine economy to its knees starting in early March 2020 and extending well into 2022.

The figures for the entire 2023 have yet to be released, but the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas predicted a “relatively strong” outlook for the economy in the fourth quarter of last year with growth expected to hover near the third-quarter figure of 5.9 percent.

For the better part of the year, the high inflation rate kept many Filipinos having difficulty coping with high prices of consumer goods, such as rice and sugar, as well as fuel.

Cash assistance to the low-income and disadvantaged sections of the population, however, helped keep them cope with high prices.

President Marcos Jr. remained as Agriculture Secretary until November, when he named Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. as head of the Department of Agriculture.

Towards the end of the year, Laurel had begun to familiarize himself with its operations to increase farm productivity and ensure food security.

This bodes well for the bigger contribution of the agriculture sector to the national economy in 2024.

Last year, the administration also rolled out the Maharlika Investment Fund as a sovereign wealth fund that will be used for key infrastructure projects.

The Maharlika Investment Corporation is already in operation with its key officials

already appointed by Malacañang. The MIF should be managed well so it can really enhance economic growth in the years ahead.

The administration’s economic team, including the heads of the Finance Department, National Economic and Development Authority, and the Department of Trade and Industry have been working closely to attract foreign investments, accelerate digitalization and facilitate the ease of doing business.

—“—

The challenge for the administration this new year and well beyond is to achieve political stability, sustained economic growth and social harmony

The team faces the awesome challenge of creating more job and livelihood opportunities and implementing infrastructure programs at a faster pace this year and beyond.

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HERE’S both good news and bad in so far as public transportation is concerned.

be a massive public transportation crisis in Metro Manila and elsewhere

by Feb 1.

And, with it, more protests from the affected jeepney drivers and operators who stand to lose their source of liveliThe good news for jeepney drivers hood. and the public is that public utility vehicle (PUV) operators who have yet to comply with the consolidation requirement under the government’s PUV Many traditional modernization program will still be aljeepneys running in lowed to ply selected routes. city streets today have The bad? They only have until the end of January 2024 to do so. seen better days and Last month, President Marcos stood run on diesel fuel that firm against extending the Dec. 31 deadline for PUVs to join or organize spews out toxic fumes cooperatives that would be issued conthat impair the quality solidated franchises in line with the of air we breathe in the PUV modernization program.

These groups would be entitled to cities government subsidies, access to credit facilities, and other forms of assistance to help modernize their fleets.

It seems, however, that the monthlong reprieve appears to be too short to allow PUV operators adequate time We do realize the need to modernize to meet LTFRB requirements for the the country’s transportation system. modernization program.

The US Army jeeps transformed into We can’t help but think this is a concession given to PUV operators to jeepneys since the end of the Second placate or mollify them and keep them World War and a staple of mass transfrom continuing their protest actions in portation since then have become an anachronism in this day and age when the streets.

The inevitable result of the ban on other fast and affordable transport traditional jeepneys by Jan 31 could modes are already available.

—“—

Duty Calls

Florencio Fianza

A new NAIA?

ONE of the chores I have to do every December is to go to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport to pick up family members coming home for the Holidays just like many Filipino families.

As everyone knows, meeting someone at the NAIA is always a struggle.

This is because NAIA is at its busiest this time of year with a lot of shenanigans happening.

Except, however, for one airport employee caught escorting suspected human trafficking victims, this year can, therefore, be considered uneventful compared to previous years.

The traffic going in and out of the airport complex. however, has gotten a lot worse.

Many of the tricycle drivers carelessly drive against the traffic with impunity, endangering other motorists.

The depressing sight of those shirtless men in shorts and thongs drinking or just loitering around with the piles of uncollected garbage along the streets going to the terminal buildings unfortunately have not disappeared.

Yet, this is the first sight that foreign tourists will see when they get out of the terminal buildings.

This perhaps explains why, compared to our neighbors, the number of foreign visitors coming here is so small.

As I have written in the past, we are the only country that I know that has never taken any concrete steps to improve the area going in and out of our airports.

Even in the much poorer countries in Africa, they at least try to make an effort to improve and beautify their airport surroundings because even they realize that first impressions are important when visiting a country.

Tramo, for instance, has been like the way it is ever since I can remember.

And the squatter colonies along the roads going to terminals one, two and three have gotten worst instead of have improved.

Now, we read in the papers that the DOTr is in a hurry to sign the privatization proposals of several conglomerates that submitted their joint bids of about P170b to rehabilitate and modernize the NAIA.

Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs should lead to better coordination in moving the economy forward.

The political scene has witnessed realignments in the country’s political structure, with smaller political parties gravitating toward the administration party, the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas.

The UniTeam of Marcos Jr. and Sara Duterte in the 2022 general elections has unraveled over the issue of secret funds in the national budget, with the Office of the Vice President said to have spent P125 million in confidential funds in only 11 days last year.

Marcos has vowed to continue the war on drugs, but with focus on getting the bigtime drug lords, not only the street dealers, and on the rehabilitation and treatment of drug dependents.

Law enforcement and rehabilitation and treatment should address both the supply and the demand aspect of the problem of illegal drugs.

The resumption of face-to-face classes with the much-improved COVID-19 situation and accompanying reforms in the K-12 curriculum tell us that the education sector needs all the support it can get from government.

Congress is doing the right thing in improving the country’s health situation with proposed laws to establish specialty hospitals in the various regions.

Since the start of its term in mid-2022, the Marcos administration has emphasized that it pursues an independent foreign policy.

That has meant forging closer relations with the United States, in contrast to the previous administration that pivoted to China for investments.

While China remains the country’s leading trading partner, our bilateral ties have been further strained by Beijing’s insistence on claiming ownership over practically the whole of the South China Sea on the basis of what it now calls the “ten-dash line.”

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

Many traditional jeepneys running in city streets today have seen better days and run on diesel fuel that spews out toxic fumes that impair the quality of air we breathe in the cities.

But instead of banning traditional jeepneys outright, the government could perhaps subsidize their conversion to more- environment-friendly vehicles and limit their routes to certain areas.

Or they could be allowed to operate in the provinces that need more transport We need to modernize our mass transport system with more light rail trains, buses that run on dedicated lanes, and perhaps more subways since our road networks in the National Capital Region are already too congested with rapid population growth and few transportation options.

We understand that several transport groups that have long been opposed to the consolidation requirement cite not only the loss of their livelihood but also express concern that the franchise consolidation scheme might lead to big businesses and corporations monopolizing transport routes.

But a rationalized mass transport system may require professional management by the private sector working in tandem with government in modernizing our mass transport system to world standards instead of relying on discards from the Second World War.

—“—

Many of the tricycle drivers carelessly drive against the traffic with impunity, endangering other motorists

Some are criticizing the haste of this move but I would grant that the DOTr simply wants to fast track the rehabilitation which has been delayed for many years.

But it would help if the DOTr make public the whole scope of the work to be done.

From my experience of working in the DOTr, my initial impression of the money allotted for the project is too small if what the government wants is to provide a state of the art facility that we can all be proud of.

We would expect that part of the scope of work to be done is clearing of the squat-

ter colonies along Tramo road and the roads leading to the three terminal buildings, terminal, burying all the spaghetti electric wirings to remove all those unsightly huge electrical columns that dot the roads together with the landscaping of the roads going to the airport terminal buildings.

Lowering the density of population in the area is also a must.

All these will require an outlay much bigger than the P170b being mentioned in the media.

I suspect that what will happen instead would be to focus on the rehabilitation of the three terminal buildings together with the parking areas.

The empty lands like the former Nayong Filipino will be developed into a commercial area which will attract additional traffic.

It is also doubtful whether the size of the squatter colonies along Tramo and the streets going to the three terminals will be significantly reduced.

This is because the squatter colonies affect the ambiance of airport operations in a big way which constitute a huge part of the problem of NAIA. It is, therefore, essential that the DOTr and the winning proponents address the problem of the squatter colonies to maximize the benefits of the airport rehabilitation.

After all, what travelers would like to see and experience after rehabilitation is to be able to travel seamlessly to the “new” NAIA comfortably without any hustles just like the airports of our neighbors such as Singapore.

I hope, however, that I am all wrong on this and that DOTr has everything all covered.

While relations with China have soured over territorial and maritime claims, the Marcos administration has gravitated toward Washington for enhanced defense cooperation.

The Biden administration has given reassurances that its commitment to the Philippines under the terms of the 1951 Mutual Defense Agreement remains “ironclad.”

The treaty binds both sides to come to each other’s defense if attacked by a third party. But we should also build a credible defense posture and beef up our military capability while enhancing security ties with friendly countries.

The challenge for the administration this new year and well beyond is to achieve political stability, sustained economic growth and social harmony.

That will require high statesmanship and a clear vision for the future that succeeding administrations can build upon.

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

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

A7 THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Japan investigators probe fiery plane crash that killed 5 TOKYO—Japanese investigators on Wednesday probed a near-catastrophic collision at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport between a coast guard plane and a passenger jet, with conflicting reports about what instructions air traffic control gave.

All but one of the six people on the coast guard aircraft died, but all 379 passengers and crew escaped to safety down emergency slides minutes before the Japan Airlines Airbus was engulfed in flames late Tuesday.

The blackened husk of the airliner, still sitting on the tarmac Wednesday, bore witness to just how narrow their escape had been. Several hundred meters away lay the remains of the coast guard’s DHC-8 aircraft.

The captain of the coast guard plane

BOOTED UP. Palestinian Hamas suporters in the West Bank city of Ramallah protest on Tuesday against an Israeli strike in Lebanon that killed Hamas’ deputy leader Saleh al-Aruri earlier following an Israeli strike on Beirut’s southern suburbs, two security officials told AFP, with state media reporting the strike hit a Hamas office. The strike adds to fears the nearly three-month-old IsraelHamas war could become a wider regional conflagration. AFP

J

ERUSALEM—The Israeli army has said it is “prepared for any scenario” after a strike in Beirut that killed Hamas’s deputy chief, stoking fears the war in the Gaza Strip could boil over into wider regional conflict.

A high-level security official in Lebanon told AFP that Saleh alAruri was killed along with his bodyguards in a strike by Israel, which has vowed to destroy Hamas after the movement’s shock Oct 7 attacks.

A second security official confirmed the information, while Hamas TV also reported Israel had killed

AFTER HAMAS DEPUTY KILLED IN LEBANON

Israel ready ‘for any scenario’ Aruri in Lebanon.

Israeli army spokesman Daniel Hagari did not directly comment on the killing, but said afterwards that the military was in “very high state of readiness in all arenas, in defence and offence. We are highly prepared for any scenario.”

Israel has previously announced the deaths in Gaza of Hamas commanders and officials during the war, but Aruri is the most high-profile figure to be killed, and his death came in the first strike on

the Lebanese capital since hostilities began.

The strike adds to widespread fears that the nearly three-month-old IsraelHamas war could become a wider regional conflagration.

Hamas said Aruri’s death would not lead to its defeat, while its Lebanonbased ally Hezbollah vowed the killing would not go unpunished, calling it “a serious assault on Lebanon... and a dangerous development”.

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mi-

kati condemned the killing and said it “aims to draw Lebanon” further into the war.

Aruri, who lived in exile, is accused

by Israel of masterminding numerous attacks.

Following his death, Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh said that a movement “whose leaders fall as martyrs for the dignity of our people and our nation will never be defeated”.

Hamas’s bloody Oct 7 attack on Israel resulted in the deaths of around 1,140

Deadly strikes hit Ukraine, Russia border KYIV—Deadly strikes hit residential buildings in Ukraine and a Russian border region Tuesday as an escalation of aerial attacks also wounded dozens and prompted Kyiv to urge speedier Western weapons shipments.

The bombardment of mainly Kyiv and northeastern Kharkiv came less than 24 hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to step up strikes following an unprecedented Ukrainian attack on the Russian city of Belgorod.

In total, five people were killed and 130 wounded, authorities said.

“The enemy has planned their trajectories to cause as much damage as possible. This is an utterly premeditated terror,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in his nightly address.

Since December 29, Russia has launched nearly 300 missiles and more than 200 drones against Ukraine, he said.

Meanwhile, a new Ukrainian strike on Russia’s Belgorod border region killed at least one person Tuesday and wounded five, the local governor said.

Moscow claimed to have struck only military installations, but Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov said Russia was deliberately hitting critical infrastructure and residential neighbourhoods.

Kyiv urged Western allies to respond to the bombardment by speeding up the delivery of air defence equipment, combat drones and long-range missiles at a time when allied backing has wavered. AFP

people, most of them civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures.

Militants also took around 250 hostages back to Hamas-ruled Gaza, of whom 129 remain in captivity, according to Israeli figures.

After the attack, the worst in its history, Israel began a relentless bombardment and ground offensive that has killed at least 22,185 people, mostly women and children, according to Gaza’s health ministry. AFP

NOW RECOVERING. South Korean opposition party leader Lee Jae-myung, attacked in Busan, lies on a stretcher as he arrives at Seoul National University Hospital in Seoul on Tuesday, after he was stabbed in the neck hours earlier by a man who pushed through a crowd pretending to be his supporter. Lee, who suffered a wound to his jugular vein, was first taken to hospital in Busan, then flown to the capital Seoul Manila where he underwent a two-hour surgery. He isStandard currently recovering in the intensive care TODAY unit. AFP

NOTICE Notice is hereby given that CITICORE SOLAR BATANGAS 2, INC. is applying for registration with the Board of Investments (BOI) as Renewable Energy Developer of Solar Energy Resources (105.037 MWdc/75.000 MWac Bolbok 2 Solar Power Project) in Barangay Bolbok, Municipality of Tuy, Batangas to avail of the incentives under R.A. No. 9513, otherwise known as the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 Any person with valid objection/s on the abovementioned project may file his/her objection in writing, under oath, with the BOI within three (3) days from the date of this publication/ posting.

Opposition leader ‘could have been killed’—party SEOUL—South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung narrowly escaped death when he was stabbed in the neck, a party lawmaker said Wednesday, as police were granted a warrant to search his assailant’s property.

Lee was surrounded by journalists in southern Busan city Tuesday when a man pretending to be a supporter pushed through a crowd and then lunged at him, stabbing him on the left side of his neck with a knife.

Lee, who suffered a wound to his jugular vein, was first taken to hospital in Busan, then flown to the capital Seoul where he underwent a two-hour

surgery. He is currently recovering in the intensive care unit.

“Busan medical staff stated that if the attacker’s knife had struck Lee’s carotid artery he could have been killed instantly at the scene,” Democratic Party lawmaker Jung Chung-rae said during a party meeting Wednesday.

“Lee is currently recovering in intensive care but the situation is so serious that visiting is difficult,” he added.

According to the Yonhap news agency, police said Wednesday that they planned to seek an arrest warrant

for the 66-year-old suspect, identified only by his surname Kim, who was detained at the scene.

The warrant would allow police to continue to hold the suspect.

A district court issued a warrant to search the suspect’s house and office as part of the investigation, Yonhap said, adding that police will focus on finding the exact motive behind the attack.

South Korean authorities plan to bring attempted murder charges against the assailant, and the attacker told the police, according to Yonhap, that his intention was to kill Lee. AFP

Former Vietnam health minister, 37 others tried over overpriced COVID-19 test bribes HANOI—Vietnam’s former health minister and 37 others went on trial in Hanoi on Wednesday for their alleged roles in producing and distributing overpriced COVID-19 test kits.

The Viet A scandal, named for the semi-private firm that made the kits, allegedly saw senior officials facilitate multiple million-dollar deals to supply hospitals and local communities with testing equipment at vastly inflated prices.

Images on state media showed the defendants—all wearing masks— escorted by uniformed police to the court building in Hanoi.

—which had been bound for the New Year’s Day earthquake zone in central Japan—was its lone survivor but suffered serious injuries.

Footage on Tuesday showed a ball of fire erupting and thick black smoke billowing from underneath the airliner shortly after landing and coming to a halt on its nose after its front landing gear failed.

Passengers could be seen sliding down inflatable slides as flames shot out from the rear of the aircraft in video posted to social media platform X. As the plane was evacuated, dozens of fire engines with blue and red flashing lights tried to douse the flames, but the entire aircraft was soon engulfed and it took eight hours to finally extinguish the blaze. AFP

Among them was former health minister Nguyen Thanh Long, who is accused of receiving bribes worth $2.25 million, and former Hanoi mayor Chu Ngoc Anh, accused of “violating regulations on management of state assets.”

At least 100 officials and business people have been arrested across the country in connection with the scandal.

The scam was estimated to have netted some $172 million for Viet A —$34 million of which was allegedly ploughed straight back into the bribing of officials.AFP

(MS-JAN. 4, 2024)

(SGD.) RACQUEL B. ECHAGUE Director Resource-Based Industries Service

NOTICE Notice is hereby given that CITICORE SOLAR NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 2, INC. is applying for registration with the Board of Investments (BOl) as Renewable Energy Developer of Solar Energy Resources (36.060 MWDC /30.000 MWAC Silay 2A Solar Power Project) in Barangay Estaquio Lopez, City of Silay, Negros Occidental to avail of the incentives under R.A. No. 9513, otherwise known as the Renewable Energy Act of 2008.

Any person with valid objection/s on the abovementioned project may file his/her objection in writing, under oath, with the BOI within three (3) days from the date of this publication/ posting.

(MS-JAN. 4, 2024)

(SGD.) RACQUEL B. ECHAGUE Director Resource-Based Industries Service

NOTICE Notice is hereby given that CITICORE SOLAR NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 2, INC. is applying for registration with the Board of Investments (BOI) as Renewable Energy Developer of Solar Energy Resources (25.020 MWDC /20.100 MWAC Silay 2B Solar Power Project) in Barangay Estaquio Lopez, City of Silay, Negros Occidental to avail of the incentives under RA No. 9513, otherwise known as the Renewable Energy Act of 2008.

Any person with valid objection/s on the abovementioned project may file his/her objection in writing, under oath, with the BOI within three (3) days from the date of this publication/ posting.

APPRECIATING EXHIBIT. This picture taken Tuesday and released from

North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency via KNS on Wednesday shows North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un (center) inspecting an exhibition at the Three Revolutions Exhibition Hall in Pyongyang. AFP

(MS-JAN. 4, 2024)

(SGD.) RACQUEL B. ECHAGUE Director Resource-Based Industries Service

BUSINESS

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024

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

Stock index falls below 6,500 level, PSE declares morning trading halt THE benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index fell below the 6,500 level Wednesday, after trading resumed before noon.

The PSE halted market trading two minutes after the opening of morning trading. “Please be advised that the trading in the market is currently halted. Kindly stand by for further announcements,” the PSE said in an advisory posted on its X social media account Wednesday morning.

It did not provide a reason for the trading halt. Before the suspension, the 30-company PSEi was trading at 6,541,03. Trading resumed at 11:56 a.m.

The PSEi shed 55.16 points, or

0.84 percent, Wednesday to close at 6,498.88, while the broader all-shares index declined 15.73 points, or 0.45 percent, to settle at 3,450.24.

“Here at home, investors are awaiting the release of inflation rate print which will be released on Friday,” Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said.

Total valued turnover was thin at P2.55 billion because of the morning trading halt.

The benchmark index lost 1.8 percent in 2023 to finish the year at 6,450.04 points. Daily average value turnover declined by 16.5 percent to P6.09 billion from P7.30 billion in 2022.

Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP

SHELL’S AWARD. Shell Pilipinas Corp. president and chief executive Lorelie Quiambao-Osial (center) receives the prestigious Golden Arrow Award for Corporate Governance from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD).

The Golden Arrow is given to top publicly-listed companies (PLCs) in the country that meet the score requirements on corporate governance. With Osial during the awarding ceremony are (from left) Shell Pilipinas Corp. corporate secretary Erwin Orocio, vice president for finance, treasurer and chief risk officer Rey Abilo, investor relations manager Angelica Castillo and legal counsel and corporate compliance lead Vincent Juan.

Yuchengco Group buys P2.7-b Tarlac property

By Jenniffer B. Austria

H

OUSE of Investments (HI), the listed investment holding and management company of the Yuchengco Group of Companies (YGC), is acquiring a 184-hectare property in Tarlac province for P2.7 billion.

The acquisition is in line with the HI said its wholly-owned unit Tarlac Tergroup’s move to diversify and expand its ra Ventures Inc.(TTVI) would purchase the property portfolio, HI said in a disclosure property from Rizal Commercial Banking to the stock exchange Wednesday.

Corp., which is also part of YGC.

The property is located within the Central Techno Park in Luisita Industrial Park. It will be funded through a combination of equity and debt.

HI said that aside from expanding its property portfolio, the acquisition would also diversify and provide future revenue and income profile of the group as the property is located in a prime area in Tarlac.

“Once developed, the asset will contribute to the bottom line of House of Investments,” the company said.

TTVI will make an initial 20-percent

downpayment, with the balance payable in three yearly installments. It also has the option to pay or settle the balance in a shorter period.

HI’s board of directors approved in November the creation of a new wholly-owned subsidiary that will engage in real estate activities.

HI’s core business focus is organized into four segments including car dealership, construction, education and property management services. It owns stakes in EEI Construction Corp. and iPeople Inc.

Senator asks DOE to explain energy roadmap delay

By Alena Mae S. Flores SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian on Wednesday asked the Department of Energy (DOE) to explain the delay in the submission of a new energy roadmap to Congress.

Gatchalian said the DOE was supposed to submit to Congress an updated energy roadmap on Sept. 15 as mandated under Republic Act 9136 or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA).

The Philippine Energy Plan (PEP), which extends up to 2050, seeks to increase the use of renewable energy and come up with an energy mix towards a clean energy scenario. The Philippine aims to increase its renewable energy capacity to 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.

“The Philippine Energy Plan will be the foundation for achieving cleaner energy, promoting economic growth, and enhancing the well-being of our people,” said Gatchalian.

He said the submission of the PEP was more than three months overdue, and the plan is crucial in ensuring adequate supply of energy. “The DOE needs to comply with this requirement immediately,” Gatchalian said.

The PEP is a comprehensive roadmap for the energy sector, ensuring sustainable, stable, secure, sufficient, accessible and reasonablypriced energy.

NEW AIRCRAFT. Cebu Pacific receives on Jan. 3, 2024 the first of the two A320ceo aircraft under its damp lease agreement with Bulgaria Air to strengthen the former’s fleet and meet the continued rise in passenger demand. The aircraft has a 180-seat capacity and will fly passengers on selected flights from Manila to Cebu and Davao from January to April 2024. Damp leasing is an agreement between two airlines, where the lessor provides an aircraft, crew maintenance and insurance (ACMI) to the lessee.

PLDT Global expands digital services for overseas Filipinos

By Darwin G. Amojelar PLDT Global Corp., through its TINBO (Tindahan ni Bossing) platform, expanded its digital services with online shopping and food e-gift vouchers for its customers.

“This is another way for us at PLDT Global and TINBO to engage with our Filipino communities overseas by providing them with more options to care for their loved ones back home,” said Albert Villa-Real, president and chief executive of PLDT Global, the international retail arm of PLDT Inc. PLDT Global said overseas Filipinos

could now purchase Lazada and Shopee e-gift vouchers for their families and loved ones in the Philippines via TINBO. Powered by PLDT Global, TINBO is the one-stop marketplace that enables Filipinos around the world to buy load, send food vouchers, e-gifts, healthcare PINs from mWell and even gaming PINs for their families in the Philippines.

They can acquire a smart virtual number (SVN) through TINBO, enabling them to receive OTPs from e-wallets and e-banks in the Philippines like Maya.

TINBO also enables overseas Filipi-

nos access to a convenient and secured online bills payment platform for their Philippine utilities, and other digital services while outside the Philippines.

Meanwhile, PLDT Global strengthened its partnership with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to expand the reach of their services and provide global Filipinos with relevant tools that empower them digitally.

PLDT Global also worked with the PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF) and the Asian Carriers Conference to extend grants to deserving OFWs, offering them opportunities to upskill or support their growing businesses back home.

Leyte poultry farm files P195-m damage claim against ex-mayor

NEW YEAR CELEBRATION. Sheraton Manila Bay welcomes the new year at the Sheraton Club where groups of friends and families enjoyed a lavish buffet. Guests and attendees in their costumes also gathered at the rooftop of the hotel to join the 2024 countdown.

A MAJOR poultry producer in Leyte province filed a damage claim for P195.24 million against a former mayor of Palompon town as a result of the respondent’s 2021 order preventing the delivery of day-old chicks to San Miguel Foods Inc. (SMFI).

Legal counsel Gerentstein Banzon, representing DBSN Farms Agriventures Inc., cited as respondents former Palompon mayor Myra Georgina Arevalo and other town officials. The complaint also sought settlement of P100,000 in lawyer’s fees and another P100,000 for litigation expenses.

DBSN is the first in Eastern Visayas to have a fully-automated breeder farm, and the largest of its kind in terms of egg production.

DBSN manager Rodante Bien Cabello alleged in the complaint that the former mayor denied the issuance of a business permit to the poultry firm despite the submission of documentary requirements. “Since its op-

eration sometime in late 2019, DBSN chicken breeder division has been issued the necessary business permit by the Office of the Mayor of Palompon, Leyte,” Cabello told the Regional Trial Court (RTC) in Baybay City, Leyte.

“As a matter of fact, defendant former Mayor Arevalo has likewise issued the business permit for 2020 to herein plaintiff,” Cabello said.

Cabello said, however, the respondent denied the renewal of the business permit dated Jan. 25, 2021. This prompted DBSN to file a petition for certiorari, mandamus, prohibition with prayer for the issuance of a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the official.

Cabelo said Arevalo also issued a cease-and-desist order against the DBSN operation, disallowing the transport or the chicks, worth millions of pesos, to the DBSN client. The company said in its complaint the prohibition to transport eggs resulted in losses amounting to more than P195 million.

Maynilad allots P2.8b to build 4 storage tanks

By Othel V. Campos THE completion of four new reservoirs will add 211 million liters (ML) to Maynilad Water Services Inc.’s (Maynilad) water storage capacity by 2026.

Maynilad said Wednesday it is putting up new water storage facilities in separate sites to serve the water needs of clients in elevated areas.

“Households in elevated areas are typically affected by low water pressure whenever the demand goes up.

Having more reservoirs will help to maintain supply availability despite strong water withdrawals from households in low-lying areas, so we’re building more of these storage facilities in strategic locations,” said Maynilad chief operating officer Randolph Estrellado.

The increased capacity will improve water delivery to consumers, especially those in low pressure areas, he said.

Maynilad is spending P2.8 billion for the four new water storage tanks in Quezon City, Valenzuela City and Muntinlupa City. Maynilad said the budget for additional storage is part of its P220-billion service enhancement program for 2023 to 2027.

Maynilad has 37 operational reservoirs that can store 751 million liters of treated water supply, up from only 10 reservoirs with 400-millionliter storage capacity after it rehabilitated 13 old reservoirs and constructed 14 new ones since 2007.

Axelum opens 100-bed hospital in Gingoog City AXELUM Resources Corp., a fullyintegrated manufacturer and exporter of coconut products, opened a 100-bed hospital in Northern Mindanao.

Axelum said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Wednesday it launched San Isidro Polymedic General Hospital, the first secondary-level hospital in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental.

The state-of-the-art medical center offers a comprehensive suite of services including hemodialysis, emergency room, intensive care, extended laboratory and diagnostics, radiology, surgery, delivery room, neonatal, outpatient clinics, pharmacy and other essential amenities.

The project is in partnership with the Cagayan de Oro Polymedic Medical Group owned by Dr. Ruben and Dr. Josephine Go. It is manned by a diverse roster of doctors, nurses and experienced medical support staff.

“At Axelum, our overarching goal is to combat poverty through livelihood, education, and now through healthcare.

We believe that every Filipino deserves access to quality medical services and modern facilities. With the opening of this new hospital, we aim to provide professional healthcare to the local communities and indigenous people of Northern Mindanao,” said Romeo Chan, chairman and chief executive of Axelum.

Jenniffer B. Austria

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SPORTS

Fil-Am gymnast Jung-Ruivivar to finally suit up for PH team

By Peter Atencio DECISIONS will be made on Fil-Am gymnast Levi Jung-Ruivivar, a new addition to the Philippine national women’s team.

The 17-year-old Jung-Ruivivar was supposed to join the national contingent to the Asian Games, but did not get the green light to compete in Hangzhou from the organizers.

This year, officials of the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines are thinking of having Jung-Ruivivar see action for the country again, first in the Asian Championships.

“We are deciding if we will include her in the Asian Championships and get qualification for the Olympics,” said GAP president Cynthia Carrion.

So far, while she awaits her fate, the Los Angeles-based Jung-Ruivivar has been accepted as a student-athlete at Stanford University and will compete in the US NCAA with three other recruits.

Jung-Ruivivar first broke into the scene with her junior elite debut in 2018, bagging a silver on the uneven bars and placing fifth in the all-around.

That year, Jung-Ruivivar qualified to her first U.S. National Championships, where she placed seventh in the uneven bars, 12th in the floor exercise, 18th in the all-around, 19th in the vault and 21st in the all-around.

At the U.S. National Championships during the pandemic, JungRuivivar landed 20th in the floor exercise, 21st in the uneven bars, 25th in the vault and balance beam and 26th in the all-around.

Following her achievements, JungRuivivar is moving to another club, from Paramount Elite to Twin City Twisters.

In 2022, Jung-Ruivivar made her international debut at the Stuttgart World Cup, winning team gold in the mixed cup.

At the U.S. Classic, she competed in two events, placing seventh in the uneven bars and 10th in balance beam.

After that, she competed at JungRuivivar’s first senior National Championships, placing 10th on balance beam, 14th in the all-around and on floor exercise, and 16th in the uneven bars.

Last year in 2023, Jung-Ruivivar started her season at the Winter Cup, placing 19th in the all-around and on floor exercise, 21st in the uneven bars, and 23rd in the balance beam.

Over at the U.S. Classic in early August, Jung-Ruivivar settled for16th in the uneven bars and 32nd in the balance beam.

So far, the GAP has already formed a talented women’s artistic gymnastics squad since last year, which includes Fil-foreign members in Aleah Finnegan, Kylee Kvamme and Emma Lauren Malabuyo.

Finnegan, who is about to become the first female gymnast from the Philippines at the Olympics, is being groomed for future international events again, including the 2025 Southeast Asian Games.

The 20-year-old Finnegan and Kvamme joined Malabuyo in the 12-strong national team that went into action in Hangzhou.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024

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

Members of Gilas Pilipinas are shown during the Hangzhou Asian Games’ awards ceremonies.

PH sports scribes to honor Gilas for Asian Games feat ILAS Pilipinas defied the odds and emerged as one of the most inspiring sports stories of 2023.

G

A hastily formed unit under last-minute, anointed coach Tim Cone went to Hangzhou, China for the 19th Asian Games with nary an expectation given the circumstances and experiences it went through weeks leading to the biggest sporting conclave of nations in the region.

But the Filipino cagers rose to the occasion, pulling off one of the greatest comebacks ever in Asiad history on their way to regaining the precious gold that has eluded the country for the last 61 years.

The special feat gave this country of more than 100 million people a lot to cheer about and restored pride and faith in Philippine basketball still being one of the best in Asia.

On January 29 at the grand ballroom of the Diamond Hotel, the entire Gilas Pilipinas team

will have its well-deserved moment during the San Miguel Corporation (SMC)-PSA Annual Awards Night as recipient of the 2023 President’s Award.

“They made the nation proud with their epic feat and inspiring story that will be told and retold for years to come,” said PSA president Nelson Beltran, sports editor of The Philippine Star.

The gala night is presented by ArenaPlus, the leading sports entertainment gateway in the country, with the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, PLDT/Smart, and MILO as major sponsors. Others backing the event are Philippine Basketball Association, Premier Volleyball League, 1-Pacman Partylist of Rep. Mikee Romero, and Rain or Shine.

Going to the Asiad, Cone, taking over from predecessor Chot Reyes, only had three weeks at the most to prepare a team which only retained four players from the core that saw action in the FIBA World Cup. It didn’t help any when the country lost to Jordan in the preliminaries, 87-62, that left

the team with no other choice but to win its f inal four games in order to bag the mostcherished gold.

But in a testament to its resiliency, Gilas didn’t blink and went on a roll starting with an 80-41 rout of Qatar in the quarterfinal qualification, before dodging a bullet against hot-shooting Iran, 84-83, in the Final Eight.

Then came the Miracle in Hangzhou which saw the national team battling back from a 20-point second half deficit to humble host and defending champion China in the semifinals, 77-76, as Justin Browlee nailed two incredible three-pointers in the waning moments that silenced the capacity crowd at the Hangzhou Olympic Centre.

Buoyed by the huge win, a highly-motivated Gilas side showed up against Jordan in the championship round and scored an 80-70 payback to win the country’s first Asiad basketball gold in more than six decades or since the late Hall of Famer Caloy Loyzaga and the rest of the Philippine squad conquered the 1962 edition of the meet in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Snoop Dogg is Paris Olympics’ special correspondent for NBC Snoop Dogg

NEW YORK—Acclaimed rapper Snoop Dogg will be a special reporter for US broadcaster NBC at the Paris Olympics this year, the network has announced, reprising his star turn at the Tokyo Games that delighted viewers.

“I grew up watching the Olympics and am thrilled to see the incredible athletes bring their A-game to Paris,” he said in a statement issued late Sunday.

“It’s a celebration of skill, dedication, and the pursuit of greatness...

We’re going to have some

amazing competitions and, of course, I will be bringing that Snoop style to the mix. It’s going to be the most epic Olympics ever, so stay tuned.”

NBC’s vice president of Olympic production Molly Solomon said that Snoop’s commentating on dressage at the Tokyo Olympics had gone viral and “earned Snoop a job as our Special Correspondent in Paris.”

“We don’t know what the heck is going to happen every day, but we know he will add his unique perspective to our re-imagined Olympic primetime show,” she said.

In a video published on Sunday, the “Drop It Like It’s Hot” rap-

Cignal signs former UAAP Best Opposite Fernandez THE Cignal HD Spikers continued its offseason buildup as it snatched free agent opposite spiker Jovelyn Fernandez.

The former FEU Lady Tamaraw played two conferences for the F2 Logistics Cargo Movers.

However, F2 Logistics disbanded its pro team last December.

“As one of the more experienced teams dito sa PVL, sobrang swerte namin to get one of the youngest players in Jovelyn this year. Hopefully, we can continue to develop her and help her reach ‘yung full potential niya dito sa professional level,” said Cignal HD Spikers head coach Shaq Delos Santos.

Fernandez brings her young career to one of the country’s oldest volleyball pro clubs as Cignal celebrated its first full decade last 2023.

“Sobrang happy to be a part of this Cignal team, especially with how they finished strong in the last two conferences sa PVL. Looking forward din ako na matuto kay coach Shaq and sa ates ko na galing din sa FEU. I’m excited to learn new things and kung paano ko madadala sa next level yung laro ko through his help and with the whole coaching staff dito sa Cignal,” shared the UAAP Season 85 Best Opposite spiker.

In last year’s UAAP Season 85, Jovelyn served as the Lady Tamaraws’ main cog, placing fourth in service aces and ranking seventh in spiking.

She joins former F2 Cargo Mover Dawn Macandili-Catindig in joining Cignal HD this 2024 PVL Season.

per interviewed American athletes including gymnast Suni Lee and skater Jagger Eaton, bringing his signature style and humor.

Snoop Dogg made his debut as an Olympic consultant at the Tokyo Games in 2021, with observations that become overnight viral sensations.

In a video posted Monday on the artist’s social media, he can be seen dancing in front of the Eiffel Tower to rap music.

Snoop Dogg’s global fame dates back to the early 1990s, when his debut solo album “Doggystyle,” produced by Dr. Dre, debuted in the top spot of the hit albums chart. AFP

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SPORTS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024

PPS Masters Top 8 unfolds in Iloilo City

Strong Group imports (from left) Andre Roberson, Dwight Howard, Andray Blatche and McKenzie Moore.

Strong Group taps Howard, Blatche as imports for PH 5 S TRONG Group Athletics is proud to announce its representation of the Philippines in the prestigious 33rd Dubai International Basketball Championship, scheduled to take place from January 19 to 28, at the Al Nasr Club in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Bolstering the team’s roster for this exciting competition are seasoned veterans Dwight Howard, Andray Blatche, Andre Roberson, and McKenzie Moore.

Dwight Howard, 38, an eight-time NBA All-Star and three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year, will serve as the anchor of Strong Group. Howard most recently showcased his talents with the Taoyuan Leopards during the 2022-23 T1 League Season.

Head coach Charles Tiu expressed his excitement for acquiring Howard, stating, “We pursued Dwight because

we believe he can provide a significant defensive presence and contribute offensively. Andray Blatche played a crucial role in connecting us, and I’m grateful for the support from our owners Frank and Jacob Lao.” Andray Blatche, 37, rejoins Tiu’s team after his last competitive appearance in the 2020 edition of the tournament, where he played a pivotal role in securing the championship for Might Sports.

Tiu is excited to reunite with Blatche, saying, “I’m excited to run with Dre

Blatche again. We won the last time he played for me, and he’s eager to represent the Philippines once more.”

Andre Roberson, an eight-year NBA professional primarily associated with the Oklahoma City Thunder, is set to be the designated defensive stopper for the team.

Standing at 6-foot-7, the 32-yearold product of the University of Colorado is expected to play a crucial role against formidable opponents from the Middle East.

Tiu expressed his confidence in Roberson, stating, “Andre Roberson is known to be a workhorse and lockdown defender. I believe he can contribute offensively at this level, and his great team-oriented attitude will make him an excellent fit.”

McKenzie Moore, a mainstay in Tiu’s teams, adds further depth and ex-

perience to the roster.

The team is also proud to announce the appointment of Australia national team head coach Brian Goorjian as team consultant.

Goorjian, who recently led the defunct EASL team Bay Area to the 2022-23 PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals, brings a wealth of coaching acumen and experience to the team.

Strong Group owner Frank Lao hopes that Goorjian can not only steer his team to new heights but also help in developing basketball in the country, stating, “I am truly excited to announce the addition of Brian Goorjian as our esteemed team consultant for the Dubai International Basketball Championship. With his unparalleled coaching acumen and a wealth of experience, Brian brings an invaluable perspective to all of us.”

Osaka’s Brisbane comeback ended by big-serving Pliskova BRISBANE—Defending champion Karolina Pliskova used her big serve to full advantage to end Naomi Osaka’s return to tennis in the second round of the Brisbane International on Wednesday.

Pliskova, who won the tournament the last time it was held in 2020, bounced back from losing the first set to grind down the Japanese star 3-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4.

Four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka had not played a tournament since September 2022, citing mental health concerns.

She had a baby daughter in July before deciding to make a comeback.

After an impressive first-round win over Germany’s Tamara Korpatsch, Osaka started strongly against the 39th-ranked Pliskova, breaking the Czech’s opening service game.

Pliskova, a two-time Grand Slam finalist, levelled but Osaka broke again to take a 4-2 lead then held on to bank the opening set.

The momentum began to shift in the second set as the tall Pliskova began to find the mark with her serve.

She won the second set tiebreak then got an early break in the third, holding on with ease to take the match in 2hr 13min.

“I thought I played quite well -- there are a lot of things to improve but it’s a good start,” said Pliskova, adding that after a first-round bye and having Japan’s Naomi Osaka (left) shakes hands with Czech Republic’s Karolína Plískova after their women’s singles not played since September, she needed time to find match at the Brisbane International tennis tournament in Brisbane. AFP her feet.

“You can practise as much as you want but in “It’s been a long break but I’ve been doing this sport “I’ve been training for a couple of months and I matches it’s always a little bit different,” she said. for many, many years. think I’m in pretty good shape.” AFP

THE junior tennis season kicks off Thursday (Jan. 4) with the traditional Masters Top 8 with the top-ranked players in four age-group categories last year clashing for top honors at the Iloilo Sports Complex’s courts in Iloilo City.

This marks the first time that the Province of Iloilo is hosting a tournament of this magnitude with Gov. Arthur Defensor, Jr. guaranteeing its successful staging at the ISC synthetic grass courts and LaPaz hard courts.

Kimi Brodeth, Chloe Mercado, Chelsea Bernaldez, Sanshena Francisco, Czarina Miraflor, AJ Acabo, Jasmine Jaran and Faith Blanco banner the girls’ 18-and-under division with Kendrick Bona, Mclean Gomera, Randy Pausanos, Ivan Manila, Ariel Cabaral, Gio Manito, Chad Cuizon and John Lataza disputing the crown in the boys’ side of the premier division presented by the Province of Iloilo.

Under the format, the eight players are divided into two groups with the top two from each pool advancing to the crossover semifinals of the event supported by the Iloilo Sports Development and Management, headed by Ma. Janelyn Fundal and Ray Cabarles. Winners will dispute the crowns in one-game duels.

Making up the 16-and-under cast are Jana Diaz, Erynne Ong, Aleeva Suace, Shara Paliwag, Joy Ansay, Ma. Niña Torrejos, Daveaine Gauran and Queen Villa (girls) and Kenzon Brodeth, Al Tristan Licayan, France Dilao, Aaron Tabura, Reign Maravilla, Frank Dilao, Josh Jim and Francis de Juan (boys).

Meanwhile, the PPS-PEPP juniors circuit ushers in its new regular season with the staging of the Kasadyahan and Dinagyang Festival National Juniors Tennis Championships on Jan. 8-12, also in Iloilo City.

For details and listup, contact event organizer Bobby Mangunay at 0915-4046464.

Headling the field in the girls’ 14-and-under category are Ave Maria Policarpio, Ronielle Oliveros, Chrystell Laguna, Isobel Alipo-on, Cadee Jan Dagoon, Alexa Cruspero, Loraine Jallorina and Julienne Celeste (girls) while Lexious Cruz, Adrian Rodriguez, Aljohn Rombawa and David Ezra Sepulveda lead the chase in the boys’ side of the circuit put up by Palawan Pawnshop president/CEO Bobby Castro and backed by Slazenger and Dunlop.

Others in the boys’ 14-andU fold are Anthony Castigador, Julio Naredo, Pete Bandala and Dean Palaroan, while Maristela Torrecampo, Gabrielle Bulado, Justine Gumbao, Stella Policarpio, Ma. Caroliean Fiel, Lilith Rufino, Maria Ataiza and Etha Seno banner the girls’ 12-andunder cast.

Disputing the boys’ 12-and-U trophy are Claudwin Tonacao, Joshua Stewart, James Estrella, Enzo Niere, Xian Calagos, Pete Niere, Marcus Go and Francisco de Juan.

JPGT swings into the future, holds 10-leg circuit INSPIRED by the success of its inaugural staging, the Junior Philippine Golf Tour goes full blast on its second year with a 10-leg circuit featuring 18-hole tournaments at the country’s top championship courses.

Slated to start in May during the school break, the tour will boast three age-group categories for both boys ang girls. The competition structure will see players aged 15-18 clashing in four rounds, while the 8-10 and 11-14 divisions will compete in 36-hole and 54-hole tournaments, respectively.

Mona Sarines, a grand finalist in the girls’ 11-12 class from the inaugural JPGT at The Country Club last October, shared her preparation strategy, emphasizing improvement in her short game and overall course management.

“I prepare by practicing more on my short game and around the green and by improving my course management,” said Sarines.

Mona and siblings Lisa and Vito and three other JPGT campaigners, Tiffany Bernardino, Jacob Casuga and Angelica Bañez graced the launch of the second JPGT yesterday, also at TCC, all expressing their enthusiasm for the upcoming circuit, particularly praising the 18-hole tournament format.

Bernardino, who also reached the grand finals in the girls’ 11-12 side, underscored the mental challenges of the sport, expressing a passion for overcoming course difficulties and enjoying the game with friends.

“It is great to be on top of the podium, but what matters to me is beating the

course, reaching my goals, and consistently improving my game,” said Bernardino. “Golf with all its challenges is a game that engages the mind and toughens the heart yet remains enjoyable. To conquer all the challenges the course brings while enjoying with my friends is motivation enough.”

The first JPGT, initiated by long-time golf patron Ricky Razon, chairman and CEO of ICTSI, which sponsors the men’s and ladies pro circuits and supports a number of top amateurs and lady pros’ overseas campaigns, also featured an 18hole tournament and a drive-chip-putt competition to enhance the young players’ overall skills.

Notably, there are no membership fees and the JPGT is distinct from existing junior golf organizations. PGTI gen-

Junior PGT campaigners (from second from left) Vito Sarines, Jacob Casuga, Tiffany Bernardino, Mona Sarines, Angelica Bañez and Lisa Sarines pose with members of the sports media during the launch of the second PGT at The Country Club on Wednesday.

eral manager Colo Ventosa assured that scheduling conflicts with other junior golf bodies would be avoided, promoting a collaborative environment for the benefit of the young players.

“Everybody is invited to play (in the JPGT),” said Ventosa. “If they have a tournament, we make sure we don’t hold an event at that time, because the more tournaments, the better for the players.”

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SHOWBIZ

THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer OPM band Cup of Joe solidifies their status as a breakout Filipino band

Jo Koy makes history as first Fil-Am to host Golden Globes

A phenomenal year for Cup of Joe Very Wang

A

Nickie Wang

S I prepared to leave for Estancia in Pasig for the Cup of Joe press conference, I turned on Spotify and cued up the top local songs of the week. The first track that greeted me was “Tingin,” a fan-favorite single by Cup Of Joe featuring Janine Teñoso.

Released in April 2023, the song has captivated listeners across generations, racking up over 22 million Spotify streams and becoming the band’s biggest hit to date.

Even on my way to Botejyu, the venue for the press conference, the song’s catchy melody followed me. I initially thought it was stuck in my head, but to my surprise, “Tingin” was actually playing on repeat at the restaurant.

So, during the press conference, I asked Cup Of Joe how they felt about capturing Spotify’s hearts and becoming the platform’s top OPM band.

“It’s still surreal,” they admitted. “While we’re thrilled that so many people connect with our music, creating it is our artistic expression, not just about chasing hits. We pour our hearts and stories into the lyrics,” they said.

When asked about their focus on love and romance, the band

Awardwinning actor John Arcilla stars as ‘Heneral Luna’

Cesar Montano in a scene from the historical film ‘Jose Rizal’

explained that they noticed a trend towards overly emo pop in the current scene. They wanted to offer a counterpoint: positive, relatable songs that resonated with everyday experiences.

“Our inspiration comes from a mix of personal stories and those of the people around us,” they added.

With nearly four million monthly listeners on Spotify, Cup Of Joe (affectionately known as COJ) boasts a diverse discography beyond “Tingin.” Hits like “Estranghero” (36 million+), “Ikaw Ang Pipiliin Ko” (24 million+), and “Mananatili” (10 million+) showcase their musical range.

The group started five years ago in Baguio.

The group’s initial foray into creating original music with the song “Nag-iisang Muli” and a self-produced video proved successful, earning them the Best Regional Song trophy at the 2019 MOR Awards. This same track not only secured Cup of Joe’s first Awit Award nomination but also positioned them

as contenders for Best Recording by a New Group.

“Sometimes it’s heartwarming when people recognize us, but what keeps us humble is the thought that not every song we create will be a hit, not everything we do will become popular.

Similarly, we don’t strive for perfection but for a continuous improvement of our craft,” the group stated.

The year 2023 was a banner year for COJ, solidifying their status as a breakout Filipino band. Vocalists Gian Bernardino and Raphaell Ridao, along with keyboardist Xen Gareza, lead guitarist Gab Fernandez, bassist Sevii Severino, and guitarist CJ Fernandez, rode a wave of success, culminating in soldout campus shows across the country, fueled by their festive yuletide track “Alas Dose.”

As we start a new year, COJ shows no signs of slowing down. Their partnership with Viva Records promises big things, including a new single, a potential collaboration, and even a solo concert in the first half of the year. Details are still under wraps, but the band assures fans they’ll be in the know soon.

“We’re just so excited to perform and create more music and inspire more people with our music. That’s our goal for 2024,” they stated.

2023 was a whirlwind for the Baguiobased band, and they’re poised to carry that momentum into the new year. With promises of groundbreaking music and unforgettable experiences, COJ’s journey is far from over, and its ever-growing fan base is eagerly awaiting the next chapter.

COMEDIAN Jo Koy has been announced as the host of the 2024 Golden Globes, making him the first Filipino-American to host the Golden Globes.

“We are thrilled to have Jo host the 81st Annual Golden Globe Awards and bring his infectious energy and relatable humor to kick off Hollywood’s award season,” said Golden Globes president Helen Hoehne in an official statement.

“We know Jo is bringing his A-game.”

With several successful Netflix specials that pull inspiration from his Filipino-American upbringing, Koy (whose real name is Joseph Glenn Herbert) is one of the most soughtafter comedians in the industry. Last year, Koy’s film Easter Sunday became the first major studio movie with an allFilipino cast. But this will be Jo Koy’s first time hosting an award show, and fans are excited to see what he brings to the Golden Globes stage.

“I’ve stepped onto a lot of stages around the world in my career, but this one is going to be extra special. I’m so excited to be hosting the Golden Globes this year,” said Koy. “This is that moment where I get to make my Filipino family proud.

Mahal Kita (Google it)!”

“Jo’s genuine brand of comedy is sure to entertain our honorees in the room at the Beverly Hilton and viewers at home. We are excited to work with him to make this year’s show laugh-out-loud from beginning to end,” said executiveproducing showrunners Glenn Weiss and Ricky Kirshner.

The 81st Golden Globe Awards will be the first major awards show of the season. Filipinos can watch the show’s live broadcast on Jan. 8, at 9:00 a.m. (Philippine Standard Time) exclusively on Lionsgate Play.

The nominations for the Golden Globes have also been announced, with Greta Gerwig’s Barbie leading the pack with nine nods, including Best Picture (Musical or Comedy) and acting nominations for Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling.

Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer follows closely behind with eight nominations, including Best Picture (Drama) and nominations for actors Cillian Murphy, Robert Downey Jr., and Emily Blunt.

The Golden Globes is the world’s largest award show celebrating the best of film and television. This year, two new awards have been added: Best Stand-Up Comedian on Television and Cinematic and Box Office Achievement.

Need for more factual, historical movies

Filipino-American Jo Koy comedian

Touchbass

THE apparent success of the historical biographical film of the people” and he virtually popularized the wearing Yugel Losorata GomBurZa, directed by Pepe Diokno, should inspire of barong Tagalog. It is said around two million people more Filipino filmmakers to tell other true-to-life tales attended his funeral. A journalist named Nestor Mata their families. It should also be an avenue to pinpoint the of national significance, partly to instill patriotism and was the lone survivor of the crash. encourage the youth to lead a more righteous life.

2. Lapu-Lapu and Magellan – The question “Who debunking of the rumor that his paralysis was caused by The movie, apart from being the most talked about killed Magellan?” is by far among the easiest to answer syphilis. The greatest of all Marites must have spread among the packed that opened to theaters during the related to Philippine history, unless you’ve been convinced such a rumor.

5. Silang couple - Talking about a power of two Christmas season, won seven awards at the 2023 back from the pre-Philippine Revolution era is cool. A Metro Manila Film Festival Awards, counting the filmmaker touching on the tale of Diego and Gabriela Gatpuno Antonio J. Villegas Cultural Award and 2nd Silang may also be able to look at the British occupation Best Picture. Why there is an award for the 2nd, 3rd, of Manila for 18 months beginning in October 1762, and for this year, a fourth, best film in a battle for Best which is essentially linked to the Silangs. Ever wondered Picture - I can’t, or I choose not to, justify. how it could have been had the British succeeded in In light of recently made movies criticized for urging Filipinos to “Be British?” employing historical revisionism in a contestable 6. Jose P. Laurel - It’s okay to reflect on the life sense and the spread of fake news on social media to and presidency of a man forever attached to serving twist history for political maneuvering during the Japanese occupation in the early 1940s. and selfish gain, the need to educate Such a film may vindicate his place in history and mainstream audiences of the lessons make him more than a puppet leader as some quarters of history is all the more necessary.

There are other significant historical From left: Enchong Dee, Cedrick Juan, and Dante Rivero as GomBurZa would prefer to qualify him.

7. The Beatles in Manila - For all of Pinoys’ films made in recent memory like reputation as hospitable and among the greatest Marilou Diaz Abaya’s Jose Rizal and Jerrold Tarog’s Heneral Luna. But there by trolls who managed to trick you into believing someone concert fans, there was the dark episode where the world’s is certainly enough room for more. Here else did it. Most of us know little about the backstories greatest band was accused of snubbing somebody, then are some key figures or events from the of these two men so it must be interesting to dig further beaten on their way to fly out of the country. Such a glorious, or gory, past that movie makers before a climactic visualization of the historical moment film should settle the record straight, that Filipino fans genuinely loved the Beatles as a total of 80,000 came may take a look at when thinking of what that made them inseparable. subject to delve into.

3. The Third Republic - For a time Independence Day to watch the group perform two shows, and that the few 1.

Ramon Magsaysay plane crash was celebrated on July 4 to commemorate what happened in who eventually harassed them were likely just following – The “Champion of the Masses” as he 1946. How this crucial era came about and its effect on the orders. was referred to after a plane carrying him Philippines becoming the nation we know today is vital to 8. Maguindanao Massacre - This horrific tale and more than 20 others crashed on March the understanding of anyone wondering how the country is happened in the 21st century, yet its significance is as old 17, 1957 was amusingly the originator of being run like, well, however you want to describe it. as those past elections vying for the title dirtiest in history. campaign jingles. Thus, you may have 4. Sublime Paralytic - A movie about Apolinario There’s so much to dig over the killing of an entourage on heard of one called “Mambo Magsaysay.” Mabini must be done to inspire and empower the road to just file the certificate of candidacy of someone The former president turned Malacañang into a “house communities, especially the persons with disabilities and who decided to challenge a powerful clan.

B4

LIFE

THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024

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

Keeping it light in 2024

Sandara Park shares self-care sessions FANS of Sandara Park would agree that the global superstar looks as fresh as ever. Since her memorable Star Circle Quest win in 2004, it seems time has stood still for the 39-year-old sensation.

With her fit physique and youthful glow, it’s natural to ask: what’s her self-care secret?

Light diet Despite her love for food, Sandara keeps it light with small, enjoyable portions. Sharing her food adventures on social media, she highlights Let us welcome this year with open arms, take all the good with us, and leave the bad behind

her small appetite, allowing her to relish diverse dishes without fretting about weight gain.

For a guilt-free night out, Sandara wisely opts for low-calorie beer, ensuring a good time without the excess calories.

Active lifestyle Staying fit is crucial for Sandara. During her 2NE1 days, dance practices were central to their routine, focusing on cardio and boxing under YG Entertainment’s trainers. In solo pursuits, she continues to embrace dance.

Her dedication extends to daily cardio, a morning routine of an hour on an empty stomach, guided by a personal trainer. She caps it off with an impressive 400 sit-ups before bedtime.

Skincare routine Sandara is also often praised for her radiant skin. And it’s no secret that the singer maintains good skincare with a focus on hydration.

Skin hydration helps promote skin elasticity, diminishing the formation of wrinkles and fine lines.

Fitness and wellness get techy and proactive M

By Nickie Wang

ORE than mental health, 2024’s resolution parade is now highlighting the significance of physical fitness.

Some lessons from the year that was Job Well Done Joba Botana

WE FIND ourselves in the initial days of 2024, harboring hope that fortune will favor us throughout the upcoming year and beyond. In the absence of such favor, may we discover the courage and composure to navigate any circumstance that unfolds.

Reflecting on the past year, I’ve encountered blessings, challenges, and invaluable lessons, all of which I am grateful for. During a brief holiday hiatus, I took the opportunity to assess the highs and lows of the preceding year, contemplating what I could carry forward into 2024.

On giving closures. You don’t have to wait for anyone to give this to you, or for an event that will signal a closure. Be the one to give the closure that you need for a journey that has come to an end.

I have said farewell several times in the past year to jobs, and some people. At times, a goodbye need not be uttered, you just know it is time for a new beginning.

On new beginnings. You can begin again at any point in your life. Holding on to something that is no longer serving you is an act of disservice to yourself. It will be hard, but finding the courage from deep within yourself to start anew can be the best gift to yourself.

On self-compassion. Cliche as it may sound but we all make mistakes and will commit again. While we are in the process of learning the lesson, let us be kind and gentle to ourselves.

I still find myself grappling with this, occasionally forgetting to be gentle when faced with mistakes or setbacks.

Reminding myself to avoid harsh selfjudgment becomes paramount.

On being in charge of your life. There is no one else in charge of your life but yourself.

The reminder to be the master of one’s destiny echoes persistently. Often plagued by self-doubt and the fear of failure, I’ve realized the importance of relying on a trusted circle as a sounding board. Expressing my feelings serves as a catalyst, pushing me forward and reinforcing that I am the captain of my ship, the architect of my destiny. With this realization, the empowering truth resonates—I alone possess the ability to navigate my life in the direction I desire.

Undoubtedly, there will be lessons to be learned this 2024. Let us welcome this year with open arms, take all the good with us, and leave the bad behind. Cheers!

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

Korean idol Dara subtly shows off her abs in a recent Instagram post

A recent Forbes Health survey revealed that nearly half of Americans prioritize getting fit this year, compared to just 36 percent prioritizing mental well-being. This shift shows a collective desire to reclaim control of our bodies and embrace healthier lifestyles.

Not a new phenomenon, this gymr u s h phenomenon resonates in the Philippines, too.

Holiday feasting fuels the January fitness frenzy, as folks shed festive pounds and sculpt “Insta-perfect” summer bodies before the heat rolls in.

But how will fitness enthusiasts achieve their goals in 2024?

Well, the “holistic wellness” wave of 2023 is getting a high-tech makeover. Experts predict two major trends: wearable tech going to the next level and AI becoming our personalized fitness coach.

Advancements in technology continue to play a pivotal role in shaping health and wellness trends. In 2024, there is a surge in the use of personalized fitness apps, wearables, and virtual training platforms.

These tools offer tailored workout plans, real-time progress tracking, and personalized health insights, empowering individuals to take control of their fitness journeys in a way that aligns with their unique needs a n d goals.

Say goodbye to simple step tracking on your smartwatch.

Get ready for wearable tech that doubles as a personal health watchdog, using intelligent algorithms to monitor and potentially even screen for health issues before they become major problems.

As Christine Lemke, CEO of health data company Evidation, puts it, these devices are going from passive observers to proactive health partners.

“Wearable devices and smartwatches will continue to move beyond monitoring and add more screening features to warn us of health issues before they become bigger problems,” Lemke said in an interview with CBS News.

Think of next-generation wearables Over the years, wearable tech that can detect early signs of diabetes, flag has transformed how we potential heart rhythm irregularities, or even approach well being monitor your mood patterns for signs of stress or depression. These devices won’t just track your workouts; they’ll be your silent health advisor, nudging you toward a healthier you.

Also, artificial intelligence (AI), already making waves in some healthcare settings, is about to become your workout buddy and wellness advisor.

Imagine seeking “second opinions” on your health not from another doctor, but from a sophisticated AI analyzing your extensive health data and the latest medical research. It’s like having a personalized, constantly updated medical encyclopedia at your fingertips.s So, prepare to step into a future where your fitness tracker becomes your health guardian angel and AI assists you on your wellness journey. It’s time to embrace the tech-infused future of health and well-being.

In 2024, experts emphasize the pivotal role technology plays in achieving our fitness goals

Transform and color your home this New Year THIS 2024, there is a universal desire to start afresh in good health and overall wellness. Revitalizing one’s living space by changing its colors can instantly refresh the mood and ambience in the home.

American Standard, a LIXIL power brand, offers a fresh start to everyone’s daily routine with its Color Collection for the bathroom. Transform your space with three color options – Polished Cool Sunrise, Brushed Hard Graphite, and Matte Black – to elevate the home that perfectly match the personality of those living there.

Whether seeking sophistication or a vibrant touch for the bathroom, the timeless beauty of Polished Cool Sunrise promises to imbue any space with a comforting glow. Its luminous gold polish and glossy finish gracefully play with light, crafting an ambiance of warmth and joy throughout the home.

For those desiring a bathroom transformation, the captivating Brushed Hard Graphite shade presents an opulent grey hue and textured finish. It evokes a tranquil, Zen-like environment when paired with darker or earthy tones. Alternatively, its industrialinspired charm combines style and functionality, adding a unique character to any space.

The striking elegance of Matte Black offers an escape from the cacophony of daily life within the confines of one’s home. This finish holds the power to make a bold statement or exude understated refinement, courtesy of its rugged all-black texture that leaves an enduring impression.

Imagine the possibilities: a family seeking a bathroom makeover in time, individuals yearning for a space that reflects their evolving taste, or a young couple setting up their new home as another

The Polished Cool Sunrise invites a comforting glow and ambiance to your space

year unfolds. These Color Fittings cater to diverse needs, allowing for personalization and selfexpression as they seamlessly create their design aesthetic with selections from American Standard’s Acacia Evolution faucets, EasySet Concealed Auto Temperature Mixer, and EasySet Exposed Auto Temperature and accessories.

“Anyone can experience the joy of designing a bathroom space that truly reflects who they are. In line with LIXIL’s dedication to making better homes a reality, our focus at American Standard remains on empowering individuals to create homes they truly love. We are delighted to help infuse elegance, character, and tranquility into any room, allowing our customers to curate their sanctuaries with our palette of color possibilities,” said Hermie Limbo, Leader, LIXIL Water Technology (LWT) Philippines.

Earlier in 2023, American Standard launched its new brand identity along with the claim “LIFE. LOVE.HOME” and visual “American Standard Red” – implying love and passion to evoke a closer emotional affinity with consumers. The American Standard Red boldly unites multiple online and offline consumer touchpoints and product packaging for a seamless multi-dimensional revitalization of the consumer experience.

As the new year enters, embark on this transformation journey—enliven the home with purpose, one thoughtful fitting at a time. It’s more than an upgrade; it’s an opportunity to revitalize one’s space with purpose and intention. With Color Fittings, craft a bathroom that functions seamlessly and resonates with one’s personality and aspirations for the year ahead.

For more information, visit American Standard’s website: https://www.americanstandard.ph/.