20 .00
IN MET R MANILAO
VOL. XXXVII • NO. 327 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES JANUARY 7, 2024
EPIPHANY MASS. Pope
www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com
DESTABILIZERS ALLIED PENSION, PEACE TALKS ISSUES USED TO AGITATE MILITARY
F
ORMER senator Antonio Trillanes IV said the people behind moves to “agitate” active members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines are allied “with the Dutertes.” While he did not provide details nor names, Trillanes said some “valid” internal causes as well as disinformation of the peace talks with the communist rebels were raised against the Marcos administration. “You can really identify that most of them are allied with the Dutertes. Their agenda is to agitate, hoping they can encourage active members of the Armed Forces. But so far, they are unsuccessful,” he said in a television interview. “There are valid issues like the reduction in pension, the fixed term law that affected the careers of some officials. So they have internal causes that agitate them (active members of the AFP) but these were corrected already.” “Then there was the alleged ceasefire with the NPA. Many were agitated but the government has clarified that there are peace talks efforts but no ceasefire,” he added. For her part, Philippine National Police spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo appealed to the public not to believe everything they see online, including a video that used the photos of PNP Chief Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr. and AFP Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner Jr. and portrayed them as being involved in efforts to change the government leadership. “We appeal to our fellow citizens not to easily believe in videos or posts you see online, especially if you do not know their source and origin,” Fajardo said. “At the moment, we are not monitoring any destabilization plot as we have been hearing lately,” she added. Fajardo said the PNP’s Anti-Cybercrime Group would unmask those behind the fake and misleading social media posts and would be filing complaints against them. Meanwhile, Trillanes said probers of the International Criminal Court may have already finished their investigation into the alleged crimes against humanity stemming from the war on illegal drugs campaign of the Duterte administration. “I think the case is now at the finishing touches level for some of the principals, while those who are at the secondary level, cases are still being built up or are about to be completed too,” he said.
Francis kisses a statuette of the Christ child as he presides a mass for the Epiphany in Saint Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican on Jan. 6, 2024. In his homily, he called on the faithful to abandon “ecclesiastical ideologies” and to find God in the faces of the poor instead of “basking in some elegant religious theory.” AFP
RODY REJECTS DESTAB LINK, URGES PINOYS TO FOLLOW RULE OF LAW By Joyce Pangco Pañares
DESTAB TALKS.
Former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV (top photo), in a television interview, says the people agitating the military are ‘allied with the Dutertes.’ The former President, in a press conference in Davao City late Saturday evening, says only ‘stupid people’ would believe the claim that he is involved in any destabilization plot. Screengrabs from ANC, Facebook live
FORMER President Rodrigo Duterte said only “stupid people” will link him to destabilization efforts against the administration as he urged Filipinos to observe the rule of law. Earlier in the day, former senator Antonio Trillanes IV said the people agitating active military members were “allied with the Dutertes.” “Who in their right mind -- police or military -- will meet with me to talk about destabilization?” Duterte said during a press briefing late Saturday evening streamed live on Facebook. “Why should I do that? To find someone to replace Marcos? I am comfortable with Marcos, why should I replace him?” Duterte said he has “grown tired” of such rumors. “I do not want chaos. Let us just follow the Constitution...Change can happen through a democratic process, but not through bloody revolts or destabilization.” “Every time there is destabilization, or you break the process of democracy, you take a gamble. Destabilization is not the solution...Let the people decide, that is why we have elections. Let democracy work. Help democracy work,” he added. Asked if he is satisfied with the Marcos administration, Duterte said: “In a sense, we have not seen any issue of corruption or abuse. In a sense, Marcos is treading a straight path.” “I can’t say there is a need for change or anything. I do not see any need for agitation—nothing,” he added. Duterte, however, acknowledged that there are sentiments raised against President Marcos, but these did not emanate from his hometown in Davao City. “The sentiment is strongest in Manila, not here in Davao,” Duterte said.
SPEAKER SEEKS LEGISLATED FIXED INCOME FOR PUV DRIVERS By Maricel V. Cruz SPEAKER Martin Romualdez has vowed to pursue legislation that will enable PUV drivers to have a stable and fixed income amid the government’s transport modernization push. “We are exploring avenues to provide fixed income opportunities for drivers. This move aims to stabilize their earnings, helping them to plan and secure their financial futures more effectively. We believe that a stable income will not only benefit the drivers but will also contribute to a more organized and reliable transport system,” he said. Romualdez earlier called for a congressional inquiry into the alleged corruption surrounding the government’s jeepney modernization program.
Until measures to help PUV drivers are in place, Romualdez said he was appealing to the DOTr “to conduct a complete review of the modernization program and extend the period of its implementation.” As this developed, the president of the Liga ng Transportasyon at Operators sa Pilipinas (LTOP) said the PUV Modernization Program would help ease the traffic congestion in the country. “This PUV modernization is the solution to the heavy traffic...We really have to follow the rules and regulations set by the government,” LTOP national president Orlando Marquez Sr. said. “Let’s start with the consolidation process. It will be followed by the process that paves the way for road rationalization,” he added.
PRO-MODERNIZATION. Orlando Marquez, president of the Liga ng Transportasyon at Operators sa Pilipinas (LTOP), defends the PUV Modernization Program, saying it would help ease traffic congestion in the country. Robert Gines
SANCTIONS EYED VS. NGCP, OPERATORS OVER W. VISAYAS BLACKOUT By Charles Dantes THE government is eyeing potential sanctions against the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) and the operators of multiple power plants following the recent power out-
ages in Western Visayas, the Energy Regulatory Commission said on Saturday. ERC chairperson Mona Dimalanta said investigation into the massive power outage may be completed in six to eight weeks.
twitter.com/ MlaStandard
facebook.com/ ManilaStandardPH
Dimalanta said sanctions could be imposed “against NGCP or whoever else is accountable.” “We don’t just excuse the power plants, for example. Because the six power plants may have lapses in maintaining standards. For example,
instagram.com/ manilastandard
did any of them fail to follow the Grid Code? In that case, they may also be penalized. It’s not just NGCP if we find that they didn’t do their job,” she said. She said the NGCP is facing backlash because it is the “main actor” in operating, maintaining, and developing
the country’s state-owned power grid. Power outages hit the islands of Panay, Guimaras, and Negros due to the trip-offs of the Panay Energy Development Corp. (PEDC) Units 1 and 2, as well as the Palm Concepcion Power Corp. Unit 1.
Missed your copy of Manila Standard? Call or text our Circulation
manilastandard.net Hotline at 0917-8848655 or email: circulation@manilastandard.net
For advertisement: email: advertise@manilastandard.net • 85646229
NEWS
A2 JANUARY 7, 2024
E-mail: mst.daydesk@gmail.com Website: www.manilastandard.net
LAGMAN SAYS ALBAY MAYORS TO MEET ON PEOPLE’S INITIATIVE By Maricel V. Cruz
I
NDEPENDENT Rep. Edcel Lagman of Albay on Saturday said municipal mayors in Albay were notified of a general meeting last Jan. 5 by the League of Mayors of the Philippines of the province with an “undisclosed agenda. “During the meeting, they were informed that people’s initiative will be used as a mode of amending the Constitution and they were given mobilization funds and the forms to be signed by at least 3 percent of the registered voters of the legislative district to which their municipalities belong,” Lagman, president of the then ruling Liberal Party, said in a statement. The Office of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez had yet to make a comment on the matter as of press time. Romualdez earlier said the House of
Representatives may pursue a people’s initiative if Charter Change initiatives prosper. Lagman in a statement on Saturday said “voters who would sign the petition for people’s initiative will be given P100 each, 50 percent of which has already been advanced to the municipal mayors and respective coordinators.” Lagman suspected“This movement is apparently nationwide as Congressmen belonging to various political parties have been sent the necessary forms.” Senator Juan Edgardo Angara,
chairman of the Senate finance committee, earlier said the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution were “worth reviewing. President Marcos last week said he ordered a study on the need to amend the Constitution to attract more foreign investments. He said certain laws stemming from the 1987 Charter either ban or discourage foreign investors from doing business in the country. Earlier, Speaker Martin Romualdez said Congress is pushing to amend the 1987 Constitutions in 2024. Charter change, he said, was needed to unlock the country’s potential as an investment destination. “These include deliberations on proposed measures related to constitutional change,” he added. For his part, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III said it will not be possible to exclude the Senate from the push to
amend the Charter. “Not involving the Senate and they believe that they can amend the Constitution? Impossible. That is not only unconstitutional, but also impossible,” Pimentel said in a separate television interview yesterday. “If that is the attitude of our friends at the House, all the more they will really lose support of the senators,”he added, Pimentel said only a“minority”of the 24 senators are supportive of amending the Constitution. Under Article XVII of the 1987 Constitution, Charter change can be done through Congress upon a vote of threefourth of all its members; through a constitutional convention; or through a people’s initiative upon a petition of at least twelve per centum of the total number of registered voters, of which every legislative district must be represented by at least three per centum of the registered voters therein.
DSWD UNVEILS PEACE AND DEVELOPMENT PLAN TO SUPPORT GOV’T By Maricel V. Cruz THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has activated its ‘Buong Bansa Mapayapa’ (BBM) program in support of the government’s peace agenda. DSWD Undersecretary for Inclusive-Sustainable Peace and Special Concerns Alan Tanjusay also said the department will further strengthen its peace and development efforts this year. Tanjusay said the ‘Buong Bansa Mapayapa’ or BBM peace and development program aims to formalize the convergence of various efforts within the agency to attain inclusive and sustainable peace and development both in conflict-affected and -vulnerable areas. “The BBM peace and development program will ensure the effective implementation of the different peace and development programs of the Department that address social welfare and development concerns to complement the President’ s peace, reconciliation, and unity agenda in a more harmonized manner,” Tanjusay said in his report to DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian.
IN BRIEF SANDIGAN ALLOWS VIDEOCON TESTIMONY IN FDA CASE THE Sandiganbayan ruled to allow a witness to take the stand remotely by videoconferencing against a former director general of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) who is facing graft charges. In a resolution by presiding justice Amparo Cabotaje-Tang dated Jan. 3, the anti-graft court’s Third Division hearing the graft charges against Nela Charade Puno granted the prosecution’s motion to allow Dr. Farrah-Arsenia Agustin-Bunch to testify through videoconferencing. The charges involved the FDA’s order for the closure of a “natural medical center” in Tarlac province which the agency said was selling unregistered health products.
GROUP URGES BLACK NAZARENE DEVOTEES TO BE ECO-FRIENDLY INFRASTRUCTURE WORK. Workers go about their daily tasks early morning at a construction site in Quezon City. Based on the latest national government
disbursement performance report, state infrastructure expenditures and other capital outlays jumped by 75.2 percent to P107.3 billion in October 2023 from P61.2 billion in the same period in 2022. Manny Palmero
SC DISMISSES CONTEMPT CHARGES FILED BY AMPATUAN AGAINST ABS-CBN
ECO-FRIENDLY TRASLACION. Members of the Ecowaste Coalition hold placards in front of the Quiapo Church on Saturday calling on devotees to maintain cleanliness during the Black Nazarene feast set on Jan 9. Millions of devotees are expected to join the annual procession of the Black Nazarene after a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Norman Cruz
THE petition for indirect contempt filed by former Maguindanao Gov. Datu Andal Ampatuan, Jr. against ABS-CBN Corp. and former reporter Jorge Cariño has been dismissed. In a decision dated April 25, 2023, but only recently made public, the Supreme Court (SC) en banc granted the petition for review on certiorari of ABS-CBN and also reversed and set aside the decision of the Court of Appeals that affirmed the Regional Trial Court’s refusal to dismiss the indirect contempt petition of Ampatuan, ABSCBN News reported. In 2010, reports said Cariño interviewed Lakmodin Saliao who narrated on TV Patrol that he was present when the Ampatuan family planned the 2009 Maguindanao massacre. The interview prompted Ampatuan’s petition before the RTC to cite Saliao, ABS-CBN, and Cariño for indirect contempt claiming that Saliao’s inter-
view was meant to interfere with court proceedings to serve Saliao’s own interest, ABS-CBN News further reported. The SC cautioned in its decision that given the drastic and extraordinary nature of its contempt powers, its exercise must be restrained and judicious. “Our power to punish for contempt should never be wielded to stifle comments on public interest,” the SC said in the decision. The SC said the contempt petition must be dismissed for failing to show the following facts: that public statements were made regarding the merits of the case pending before courts; the mental element of the speaker showing that the purpose of the speech is to impede the administration of justice; the clear and present danger of the utterance to the administration of justice; and the effect of the speech on the court’s independence and public confidence in the judiciary.
CONNECTION ISSUES HALT STOCK TRADING, SAYS PSE By Jenniffer B. Austria THE Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) has reported that the technical glitch that halted market trading on Wednesday was due to brokers’ inability to connect to the local bourse’s trading engine. The PSE in a statement late Friday night said at least one-third of the trading participants failed to connect to the exchange’s front-end order management system (FEOMS). Some of these traders also failed to send
orders to the trading system. The FEOMS sends buy and sell orders for processing to the trading system. “The underlying cause of the aforementioned problem was in relation to the mobile trading application and its process of authenticating all accounts, including the inactive ones that have not accessed their four silos in the FEOMS, which experienced stalled process given the iterative authentication steps,”the local bourse said. As a result, market trading was halted from 9:32am to 11:55am on Wednesday.
ManilaStandard
Published Monday to Sunday by Philippine Manila Standard Publishing Inc. at 6/F Universal Re Building, 106 Paseo de Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City. Telephone numbers 832-5554, 832-5556, 832-5558 (connecting all departments), (Editorial) 832-5554, (Advertising) 832-5550. P.O. Box 2933, Manila Central Post Office, Manila. Website: www. manilastandard.net
PINOY RACER.
Filipino international race car driver Zachary David shows his trophy during a press conference in Pasig City. David announced his entry to the Formula Regional Middle East and Formula Regional European Championships for 2024. Manny Palmero
ONLINE
can be accessed at: manilastandard.net
MEMBER Philippine Press Institute The National Association of Philippine Newspapers
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
ENVIRONMENTAL watchdog Ecowaste Coalition on Saturday urged devotees of the Black Nazarene to express their faith in a way that is respectful of Mother Earth during the Quiapo Feast on Jan. 9. The group unfurled a banner stating “Kalakip ng Debosyon ang Malinis na Traslacion” in front of the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno, in coordination with the Green Brigade Team of the parish. As the Traslacion is commemorated during “Zero Waste Month” as per Presidential Proclamation 760, series of 2014, the group urged all sectors to ensure the cleanliness of the faith-inspired feast. Joel E. Zurbano
REGULATORY AGENCY PROMOTES SOLAR HOME SYSTEMS IN PH THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is promoting the use of solar home systems, as part of the efforts to mitigate the impact of El Niño that may aggravate during summer months. ERC chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta said the process of securing permits for the residential installation of solar panels has been streamlined. Dimalanta also noted that the ERC has partnered with local government units (LGUs) to establish a one-stop shop to make it easier for applicants to obtain a permit for a solar home system. “Kasi po may permit iyan eh to put up solar home systems – pinapadali po namin ’yung permit, nagpa-partner po kami with the local governments para po mag-establish ng one-stop shop sa mga local government (There is a permit to put up solar home systems. We are facilitating this permit, we are partnering with the local governments to establish a one-stop shop in local governments),” she said.
Rolando G. Estabillo Chin Wong Joyce Pangco Pañares Jimbo Owen Gulle
Associate Editor Managing Editor News Editor
Publisher Honor Blanco Cabie Opinion Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer
Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board
E-mail: mst.daydesk@gmail.com Website: www.manilastandard.net
NEWS
JANUARY 7, 2024 |
A3
DOH SAYS FIREWORKS INJURIES REACH 609; MONITORS TETANUS CLEANUP.
Manila Metropolitan Development Authority (MMDA) Acting Chairman Atty. Don Artes, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos, and members of various government and non-government organizations attend the launch of the “Kalinisan sa Bagong Pilipinas,” held at the Baseco Compound in Manila on Jan. 6. Norman Cruz
ABALOS: AMICABLE NEGOTIATIONS CAN END TAGUIG, MAKATI ‘CONFLICT’ By Joel E. Zurbano
D
EPARTMENT of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. said he believes that amicable negotiations will end the current conflict between the cities of Taguig and Makati. Abalos made the remarks during the reopening of West Rembo Fire Station which was previously closed by the Makati City government, following an earlier Supreme Court ruling transferring the jurisdiction of the so-called 10 Embo (Enlisted Men’s Barrio) Barangays to Taguig City. “What is important is continuous service. Because of this, I am grateful to the City of Makati, and hopefully, we will solve this issue. What are the
knots and tangles, can be discussed properly,” he said. Abalos called for uninterrupted delivery of public services for the affected residents of the EMBO barangays who were the unintended victims of the dispute. The DILG chief likewise expressed gratitude to Makati City Mayor Abigail Binay for allowing the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) personnel to man and utilize the fire station during the “transition”, until a possible resolution
of the matter is reached. “Mayor Abby allowed us. The terminology here is transition until everything is really well,” he shared. Abalos added the reopening of the West Rembo Fire Station was a move in the right direction and a clear sign that public service remains the paramount desire of both Mayor Binay and Mayor Lani Cayetano of Taguig City. For his part, Makati Administrator Claro Certeza said that while the DILG and Makati would still discuss on the sidelines the details of the BFP’s use of the Embo fire stations, “what is important is the re-opening of the stations for continuity of public service”. On Friday, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano expressed his anger, saying the Makati City government denied the Embo barangays a proper transfer
to Taguig. He said the closure of the fire stations was ordered by Mayor Binay despite her earlier statement that her city would comply with the Supreme Court decision that placed the said barangays under the City of Taguig. The senator said aside from fire stations, Makati has also closed health centers, schools, and police stations in Embo villages. Cayetano said that the people of Taguig were put in grave danger on Christmas Eve until now because the fire stations in the said areas were locked. Cayetano said he discovered the matter on New Year’s Day when he and his wife, Taguig Mayor Laarni Cayetano, visited the Barangay West Rembo and Comembo police stations.
TAGUIG OPENS SATELLITE DRUGSTORE FOR RESIDENTS IN EMBO AREAS By Joel E. Zurbano THE Taguig City government has announced the opening of a satellite pharmacy for residents of the Enlisted Men’s Barrio (EMBO) barangays, following a Supreme Court (SC) ruling that shut down health centers in these areas. The pharmacy, situated on the second floor of the Genesis Building, 19th Avenue, J.P. Rizal Extension, East Rembo, offers free medicines that were prescribed through telemedicine consultation from the pharmacy. City officials said free maintenance medicines are also available if prescribed in the past three months. The pharmacy is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The SC has ruled that the 10
Embo barangays, previously under the control of Makati, are under the jurisdiction of Taguig City, referring to Barangays Cembo, Comembo, Pembo, East Rembo, West Rembo, South Cembo, Pitogo, Post Proper Northside, Post Proper Southside, and Rizal. The Makati City government previously stated that residents of the said barangays are no longer eligible for its subsidized healthcare program under the Yellow Card program due to the expiration of their licenses to operate. The High Court’s decision has resulted in the invalidation of Yellow Cards starting January 1, 2024, unless residents are employees of the Makati City government. The licenses to operate health centers and lying-in clinics in the villages have also expired, leading to the closure of these facilities.
IN BRIEF FEEDING PROGRAMS BENEFIT MORE THAN 1.9M CHILDREN MORE than 1.9 million children have benefitted from the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) feeding programs in 2023. The DSWD also vowed to strengthen its commitment to improve the nutritional status of young Filipino children through its implementation of community-based feeding programs, Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs Irene Dumlao said. As part of the agency’s contribution to the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) program of the government and Republic Act 11037 or the Masustansyang Pagkain para sa Batang Pilipino Act, the DSWD partners with local government units (LGUs) to implement the Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP). As chair of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Zero Hunger (IATF-ZH), the DSWD will continue to prioritize programs to ensure food security of Filipinos, Dumlao said. Maricel V. Cruz
RETIRED DAVAO ARCHBISHOP CAPALLA PASSES AWAY AT 89 RETIRED Davao archbishop Fernando Capalla passed away on Saturday. Incumbent Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles conveyed the passing of Capalla to the secretariat of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines. (CBCP). Capalla, 89, served the archdiocese for more than 15 years and was a known peace advocate in Mindanao. He headed the CBCP from 2003 to 2005. “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing away of our beloved Archbishop-Emeritus Fernando R. Capalla at the age of 89, at 1:23 a.m. today, 6 January 2024,” Msgr. Jaime Gamboa, chancellor of the archdiocese, said in an announcement.
RISING PRICES. A vendor hands over rice to a buyer at the Mega Mart in Cubao, Quezon City. The Philippines Statistic Authority said the inflation rate eased to 3.9 percent in December from 4.1 percent in November to bring the average inflation for 2023 to 6 percent. Manny Palmero
NAIA SAYS PASSENGER VOLUME IN 2023 HIT 95% By Joel E. Zurbano
CONTRABAND. Authorities display smuggled cigarettes with an estimated value of P4 million which were seized in an operation led by the Philippine Navy. The ship carrying the contraband was intercepted in Davao Occidental on Jan. 3.
THE Department of Health (DOH) is monitoring tetanus cases as the total number of fireworks-related injuries (FWRI) reached 609 on Saturday. In its final FWRI surveillance bulletin, the DOH reported nine new cases on Jan. 5 and 6, all due to fireworks. The agency said there were also reported cases of stray bullet injuries being validated and the number may still change in the next few days. “The DOH is continuously validating with the PNP (Philippine National Police) to arrive at the confirmed counts. Our monitoring for tetanus cases shall continue until Jan. 25, as the maximum incubation period is 21 days, with an average of 14 days,” it said. Of the total, 601 were due to fireworks, one due to “Watusi” ingestion, and seven from stray bullets. More than half of the cases came from the National Capital Region at 320, followed by Ilocos Region at 61, Calabarzon at 49, and Central Luzon at 43. The DOH said 33 had blasts or burns with amputation; 155 sustained eye injuries with one confirmed blindness; and two suffered hearing loss. Ninety-six percent of the cases also happened at home and on the streets, mostly by males with active involvement.
THE Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) achieved its highest passenger volume in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic flight movements, reaching 95 percent of totals in 2019, which is the highest in history. The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), which manages the country’s premier airport, recorded a total of 279,953 flights in 2023, including 171,605 domestic and 108,348 international flights. This represents a 26% increase compared to the 221,595 flights in 2022 and a 3% increase from the 271,535 registered in 2019. MIAA General Manager Eric Jose Ines expressed satisfaction with the strong flight movements, especially domestic operations which recorded a 12% increase compared to 2019.
He said the strong domestic rebound is not only a testament to the resilience of the local aviation industry but also reflects the support of travelers in revitalizing our domestic tourism sector. “We have also returned international flight operations to 91% of pre-pandemic levels. We are encouraged by the renewed confidence in air travel, reaffirming our collective efforts to steer the aviation sector back to pre-pandemic levels. This is a significant step towards normalcy in global air travel,” said Ines. MIAA also effectively met its yearly forecast, handling 45,385,987 passengers at NAIA, comprising 24,887,157 domestic and 20,498,830 international travelers. This amounts to 47% more than the 30,943,105 passengers from the previous year and accounts for 95% of the 47,693,203 passengers in total for 2019.
MAGUINDANAO’S ‘DATU SALEM’ DIES DUE TO PULMONARY ILLNESS MAGUINDANAO Sultan Abdulaziz Guiwan “Datu Salem” Mastura Kudarat V died early Friday. He was 75. The sultan’s younger brother Prince Datu Mama Mastura said Sultan Datu Salem, who was born Salaman, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat on December 5, 1948, died early Friday of lingering pulmonary disorder that he had been long medically diagnosed with. In November, Sultan Salem took part in an international online conference hosted by the Care for Humanity calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, Palestine. Sultan Mastura had told friends of what he said was the glad tidings that the Magindanao Sultanate became part of an international forum that he thought then was winning the transnational advocacy for peace in Gaza. Before Sultan Mastura was crowned in 2005 as the 26th Sultan of Maguindanao, Datu Salem was genealogically the heir-apparent to his father the late Sultan AbdulAziz Giwan Mastura Kudarat IV. Nash B. Maulana
WORLD
A4 | JANUARY 7, 2024
E-mail: mst.daydesk@gmail.com Website: www.manilastandard.net
IN BRIEF DEATH TOLL HITS 110 IN JAPAN EARTHQUAKE
QUAKE AFTERMATH. A man walks past a collapsed building in Wajima, Ishikawa prefecture on Jan. 6, 2024, after a major 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck the Noto region on New Year’s Day. AFP
TAIWAN SLAMS AVIATION SAFETY ‘THREAT’ FROM CHINA BALLOONS
T
AIWAN’S defense ministry condemned Beijing on Saturday for sending balloons across the median line that separates the selfruled island and China, saying they pose a “serious threat” to aviation routes and are a form of harassment.
China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has in recent years stepped up military and political pressure – sending in an unprecedented
number of fighter jets and naval vessels around the island. In December, Taipei’s defense ministry began reporting the appearance of Chinese balloons around Taiwan, noting at least four incidents in which they flew directly above the island. “Based on their recent drift path, (the balloons) have posed a serious threat to the safety of many international aviation routes,” the Ministry of National Defense said in a statement condemning China’s “disregard for aviation safety.” The ministry also released an illustration Saturday showing two Chinese balloons it said had crossed the median line a day before, with one directly above the island. “(The) main purpose of the recent detection of balloons is ‘grey zone’ harassment in an attempt to use cognitive warfare to affect the morale of
our people,” it added. “Grey zone” tactics refer to aggressive actions deployed by a state that stops short of open warfare – which many experts say is what China is doing to Taiwan with its near-daily show of military force around the island. “We call for an immediate end to this practice to ensure flight safety in the region,” the ministry said The statement comes a week before Taiwan’s presidential election, which will determine the future of the island’s relations with Beijing depending on who voters pick. Since the election of Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen in 2016, China has severed all high-level communications with her government as she does not recognise Beijing’s sovereignty over the island. AFP
ISRAEL BOMBS GAZA AS UN WARNS AREA ‘UNINHABITABLE’ ISRAEL bombed Gaza on Saturday as the United Nations warned the Palestinian territory has become “uninhabitable” after three months of fighting that threatens to engulf the wider region. AFP correspondents reported Israeli strikes early Saturday on Gaza’s southern city of Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of people have sought shelter from the fighting. Civilians continue to bear the brunt of the conflict, with the UN warning of a deepening humanitarian crisis as famine looms and disease spreads. Abu Mohammed, 60, who fled to Rafah from the central Bureij refugee camp, told AFP Gaza’s future was “dark and gloomy and very difficult.” With much of the territory already reduced to rubble, UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths said Friday that “Gaza has simply become uninhabitable.” The UN’s children’s agency warned that clashes, malnutrition and a lack of health services had created “a deadly cycle that threatens over 1.1 million children” in Gaza. AFP
RESCUERS and residents sifted through rubble Saturday as focus turned to recovering bodies and cleaning up rather than finding survivors, five days after a huge earthquake struck central Japan killing at least 110 people. The death toll from the New Year’s Day 7.5-magnitude quake in the Ishikawa region of Japan’s main Honshu island was certain to rise, with 210 people still unaccounted for, authorities said. The work of thousands of rescue workers has been hampered by bad weather – snow was forecast for Sunday – and roads torn apart by gaping cracks and blocked by an estimated 1,000 landslides. Two elderly women were pulled from the wreckage of their homes on Thursday in the badly hit city of Wajima on the Noto peninsula, but since then there has been no reason for cheer. In Suzu, where dozens of homes lie in ruins, a dog barked while an AFP team filmed the clean-up operation on Friday, the signal of a grim discovery. AFP
ARMED GROUPS CLAIM KEY MYANMAR TOWN AN ARMED alliance of ethnic minority groups in Myanmar claimed late Friday to have captured a northern town notorious for online scam operations in another blow to the embattled junta. The military is facing its biggest threat since seizing power in a 2021 coup after three armed ethnic groups – known as the Three Brotherhood Alliance – launched a sweeping October offensive in northern Shan state. Since November people have been fleeing Laukkai town, located in a district bordering China that is run by a Myanmar military-aligned militia and notorious for gambling, prostitution and online scams run out of compounds staffed by thousands of people, many trafficked. The alliance -- made up of the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), the Arakan Army (AA) and the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) -- said the town was now under their control. “All members from the Myanmar Ar my ’s M ilitar y Operational Command in Laukkai were disarmed and Laukkai became a clean area where there are no more members of the Myanmar Army,” the alliance said in a statement. AFP
TRANSGEN EYES UPSET IN BANGLADESH VOTE
TRAIN DISASTER. Rescue personnel remove the remains of a body from a burnt out carriage of the Benapole Express in Dhaka on Jan. 5, 2024. Five people were killed after a passenger train which was arriving in the capital of Bangladesh from the western city of Jessore caught fire, with police suspecting an arson attack during unrest ahead of national elections boycotted by the opposition. AFP
A TRANSGENDER candidate in Bangladesh’s one-sided election has told AFP she is hopeful of an upset victory that would make her a rare opposition voice in parliament after polls close Sunday. Anwara Islam Rani, 31, has drawn hundreds of people to her rallies since campaigning began last month and believes she has the backing to triumph over a former government minister. “I have got unbelievably positive responses from the voters,” she told AFP late Friday. “A win is possible if the vote is free and fair and people can cast their ballot in a peaceful atmosphere.” But dozens of opposition parties have boycotted Sunday’s election, saying it will be neither free nor fair, with a repeat of the widespread irregularities of previous polls won by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. AFP
BLINKEN TACKLES GAZA, NATO WITH ERDOGAN WA S H I N G T O N ’s t o p d i p l o m a t discusses the Gaza war with Turkey’s mercurial leader on Saturday before flying to Crete to address Greek worries about the looming sale of US fighter jets to Ankara. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Istanbul late Friday for the first leg of a trip that includes visits to both Israel and the West Bank. Blinken’s fourth crisis tour since the start of the Israel-Hamas war three months ago comes with fears mounting that the conflict will engulf swathes of the Middle East. A senior US administration official said Blinken will press Israel to increase aid to Palestinians and move to a phase of combat that allows the displaced to start returning to their homes. The official added that much of the
discussions with Arab leaders will focus on containing the violence and looking at how the region can be governed once the fighting ends. Istanbul served as a base for Hamas political leaders until raids on Israel killed around 1,140 people and triggered a reprisal offensive that the Gaza health ministry says has claimed 22,600 lives – most of them women and children. Turkey asked the Hamas chiefs to leave after some were captured on video celebrating the deadliest attack in Israel’s history. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has since turned into one of the Muslim world’s harshest critics of the scale of death and destruction happening in Gaza – and of Washington’s support for Israel. Erdogan has compared Israeli
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Adolf Hitler and accused the United States of sponsoring the “genocide” of Palestinians. He has also rebuffed US pressure to cut off the suspected flow of funding through Turkey to Hamas and defended the group as legitimately elected “liberators” fighting for their land. The US State Department on Friday announced $10 million rewards for information about five alleged Hamas foreign operatives – three of them believed to be based in Turkey – thought to be helping finance the Iran-backed group. Turkey this week countered by detaining 34 people suspected of planning attacks against Palestinians and spying for Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency. AFP
GAZA WAR TALKS. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (left) meets with Turkish Foreign Affairs Minister Hakan Fidan at Vahdettin, a private residence of the presidency, in Istanbul, on Jan. 6, 2024. Blinken is to discuss the Gaza war with Turkey’s leader before flying to Crete to address Greek worries about the looming sale of US fighter jets to Ankara. AFP
OTHEL V. CAMPOS, Issue Editor email: extrastory2000@gmail.com
BUSINESS
JANUARY 7, 2024 |
B1
DAVAO DEL SUR FIRM PROMOTES FAIR TRADE By Othel V. Campos
A Firebird Gamefarm owner and gamefowl legend Biboy Enriquez.
SUPREMO FUELS GAME FARM OWNER’S 20-YEAR REIGN IN GAMEFOWL RAISING LEANDRO “Biboy” Enriquez, a renowned figure in the Philippines’ gamefowl scene, embodies dedication and success. For the past 20 years, his Firebird Gamefarm has consistently produced champion birds, a testament to his expertise and his unwavering commitment to quality. Enriquez’s story is one of lifelong passion. It began at the young age of seven, ignited by the sight of his family’s driver grooming a gamecock. At age eleven he had his first gamecock and his first win which further encourage him to start breeding gamefowl in their backyard. His passion for raising gamefowl was cut short when he took charge of their family hotel business, but in the mid-70’s Enriquez made the pivotal decision in to pursue his passion full-time. Starting with a one-hectare farm in 1971, he steadily expanded Firebird Gamefarm, located in
Tanay, Rizal. Today, Firebird G amefarm is more than just a breeding facility; it’s a thriving community of 50 families dedicated to the care and conditioning of these avian athletes. Enriquez’s deep knowledge of physical traits, breeding methods, nutrition, and training programs has propelled Firebird to the forefront of the industry. The success of Firebird Gamefarm is further underscored by Enriquez’s unwavering loyalty to Supremo Feeds. He credits the feed and veterinary products with contributing to the exceptional health, bone density, and size of his birds, evident in the surprised reactions of breeders who encounter his six-month-old giants. Enriquez ’s dedication has attracted interest from other brands, but he remains steadfast in his partnership with Supremo.
Converge employees and their families donated pre-loved but usable items to Caritas Manila.
CONVERGE AND CARITAS MANILA SUPPORT SCHOLARS AND MICRO-ENTREPRENEURS CONVERGE ICT Solutions Inc. partners with Caritas Manila’s Segunda Mana program, not only to declutter offices, and homes, but to help the les fortunate benefit from pre-loved goods. Segunda Mana transforms preloved clothes, gadgets, furniture, and books into a lifeline for over 5,000 scholars and 300 microentrepreneurs. Donated items find new homes through Caritas Manila’s Charity outlets, generating crucial funds for education and livelihood support. “At Converge, we’re committed to making a positive impact. This partnership with Caritas Manila allows us to extend our reach and support those who need it most,” said Converge Vice President and head of Corporate Communications and Public Relations Jay-Anne Encarnado. Decluttering your home with
Segunda Mana isn’t just about clearing space; it’s about cultivating positive change that ensures a healthy mindset. By giving one’s treasures a second life, it’s not just helping individuals it becomes a simple yet powerful act of conserving the planet. Every item diverted from landfills contributes to a more sustainable future. Converge has already kickstarted this impactful journey, donating over 10 boxes of items in December. “I’d like to thank the employees of Converge who took part in this charitable cause, embodying the value of charity and compassion for the under-resourced. With institutional partners like Converge, we can strengthen the reach of the Catholic Church to those in need and truly make a difference,” said Caritas Manila executive director Rev. Fr. Anton Pascual.
G Pacific Nutriceuticals Corp., an agricultural processing company from Davao del Sur province, has carved a niche in the food industry by championing fair trade practices and innovating with coconut-based products.
Siblings Antonino and Lucila Geniston established the company in 2006, inspired by Tony’s research on the health benefits of coconut oil. With only five employees, they launched their flagship product – fresh-centrifuged virgin coconut oil (VCO) – in the mid-2000s. Their Padada, Davao del Sur facility boasts a unique cold-pressing process that extracts VCO within 48 hours. Global expansion Early success in the Philippines motivated AG Nutriceuticals to seek international certifications. By 2008, they had secured organic certifications from the US Department of Agriculture, the European Union, and the Japan Agriculture Standards. Their first VCO shipment to the US followed in 2009. “Today, we export not only to the US but also to the UAE, Germany, the Czech Republic, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Nepal, Israel, and South Korea,” said Lucila. Committed to top-quality practices, AG Nutriceuticals navigated challenges from the pandemic and fierce competition, holding firm to their certifications, including Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP). Diversification Further research led the Genistons to expand beyond VCO, processing coconut water, flour and chips. Their innovative spirit also birthed coconut crisp, vinegar, bath soaps, body oils, hair care products, liniments and massage oils. Both siblings acknowledge their distinct roles: Tony as the “brains” with his research expertise, and Lucila as the “soul” with her management skills. Lucila’s dedication led her to leave a successful multinational career, believing in the deeper fulfillment of the coconut business. Mason Ang, the company president, provided crucial financial support and unwavering faith in the venture. International exposure Local production and marketing initially presented challenges, especially regarding expor t preparation. Meeting strict quality standards and managing shipping logistics were among the early hurdles. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) proved instrumental
AG Nutriceutical owners Tony and Lucila Geniston
in AG Nutriceuticals’ success. The DTI offered marketing support, licensing assistance, and global exposure through international trade fairs. Their participation in prestigious events like Anuga in Germany, BIOFACH in Germany, and CAEXPO in China broadened their reach. The Department of Agriculture also supported their participation in the OMÉK trade fair in Hungary. ARISE Plus Most recently, AG Nutriceuticals joined Thaifex Anuga in Bangkok, Thailand, with backing from the EU-funded ARISE Plus Philippines project. This participation proved highly successful, yielding 35 sales prospects and 34 international contracts signed at Anuga 2023 in Germany, with potential sales exceeding $149,000. “Thaifex was a valuable experience,” said Lucila. “ We promoted our products to international buyers, learned about current trends, and strengthened our own offerings.” The ARISE Plus project also provided international exper t support, aiding AG Nutriceuticals in navigating logistics, branding, packaging, labeling, online presence,
and improving negotiation and marketing skills. Fair trade principles Their commitment to fair trade principles earned AG Nutriceuticals the Best Coconut Industry MSME award at the 2022 World Coconut Awards. The International Coconut Community recognized their potential as an enterprise promoting organic products, Filipino pride and sustainable business practices. “ We believe in fair trade principles and are eager to expand in the EU market,” said Lucila. “Our commitment to sustainability and quality will continue to guide our vision.”
REDISCOVER FILIPINO HERITAGE THROUGH MITSUBISHI’S TARALETS CAMPAIGN
MMPC president and CEO Takeshi Hara
TO celebrate their 60th anniversary and unwavering commitment to the Filipino spirit of adventure, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines (MMPC) launched the TARALETS PINAS campaign. “We encourage Filipinos to pack their bags, fuel up their Mitsubishi vehicles, and embark on their own TARALETS PINAS adventure. We can’t wait to see the amazing places you’ll visit and the incredible experiences you’ll create with Mitsubishi Motors,” said MMPC president and CEO Takeshi Hara. The nationwide initiative aims to inspire Filipinos to rediscover the hidden gems and immerse themselves in the rich culture of their country, all while driving their trusty Mitsubishi vehicles. TARALETS PINAS goes beyond simply promoting Mitsubishi vehicles. Through the campaign, MMPC hopes to cultivate a sense of connection and shared experiences among Filipinos who love to hit the open road. MMPC launched an interactive campaign website featuring a wealth of information on destinations, road trip itineraries, and food trip tips. Filipinos are encouraged to share their own travel stories, experiences, and photos, creating a space for inspiration and community building. The campaign is also being actively promoted on MMPC’s official social media The TARALETS PINAS campaign highlights various provinces in the Philippines, showcasing their rich heritage and culture to entice Filipinos to embark on their own journeys.
B2 | JANUARY 7, 2024
ON THE ROAD
TESLA INITIATES RECALL
OF 1.6-M VEHICLES IN CHINA DUE TO STEERING SOFTWARE ISSUE
MILO RIVERA, Issue Editor email: medarlo.e.rivera@gmail.com
RAINY MEDINA: PH MOTORSPORT’S NEWEST RISING NAME THE Philippines has yet another promising young driver making waves in the world of motorsports. Rainy Medina, a 21-year-old newcomer, has recently showcased his talent and proved that he has what it takes to win on the track. Stepping away from the traditional path of starting with go-kart racing, Medina has set his sights on international competitions and is determined to make his mark. Representing Raceform, Medina emerged as the 2023 Formula V1 Challenge AM Class champion in his rookie year. In the first leg of the championship last June, he made an impressive debut as a professional driver, winning his first two races and securing a podium finish in the third race. Despite his relative inexperience, Medina continued his dominance in the second leg held in November, outperforming 13 other talented competitors on a wet and slippery Clark International Speedway. When asked about his achievements, Medina expressed his gratitude and excitement, stating, “That is truly unforgettable in my racing career. Formula V1 is the entry-level formula racing that I wanted to be a part of, and I’m so happy that I achieved so much despite the odds.” Meeting Medina in a café in Quezon City, it was clear that his passion for racing runs deep, having spent time at the racetrack with his racing enthusiast father since childhood.
B
vehicle collision and posing a safety hazard.” EIJING, China—Tesla has updates to the vehicles’ software. China holds significant importance for Tesla, Additionally, the recall includes 7,538 iminitiated a recall of more both as a major consumer market and as the ported Tesla models manufactured between than 1.6 million electric location of a significant manufacturing plant October 26, 2022, and November 16, 2023, which were found to have “a problem with the vehicles in China, according to in Shanghai. The State Administration for Market Regu- door unlock logic controls.” the country’s market regulator. lation (SAMR) stated in an online statement, Tesla has expressed its commitment to “Starting from now, a total of 1,610,105 im- cooperating fully with the relevant authoriThe recall is in response to ported Model S, Model X, and Model 3, as well as ties and providing necessary support to its software problems that could domestic Model 3 and Model Y electric vehicles customers during the recall process. “We with production dates between August 26, will take necessary measures to address the potentially pose safety risks 2014 and December 20, 2023, will be recalled.” software issues and ensure the safety of afwhile driving. The SAMR further explained, “For vehicles fected vehicles. The company has a history of The issues with the assisted driving functions and door-locking systems were discovered, prompting the recall. Tesla plans to address the problems through remote “over-the-air” (OTA)
within the scope of this recall, when the automatic assisted steering function is turned on, the driver may misuse the level two combined assisted driving function, increasing the risk of
utilizing OTA updates to fix software-related problems, allowing for convenient and efficient resolution without requiring physical visits to service centers.” AFP
THE BRONCO IS COMING.
Ford Philippines confirms the highly anticipated arrival of the Ford Bronco this year, with reservations opening soon exclusively via the Ford online reservation portal at www.ford.com.ph. The Bronco, once it arrives on Philippine shores, will be present at all Ford dealerships nationwide. Other details such as official launch date, product specifications, and prices are to be announced at a later date. Photo by Ford USA
Although Medina had a brief stint at the Porsche racing school in the United States, his aspirations to build a career in racing in the US proved to be financially challenging. Instead, he decided to pursue his love for car racing in Manila, where his mother’s roots lie in Pangasinan. Looking ahead to the future, Medina has ambitious plans. “Next year, we’re targeting Radical, Formula VITA in Japan, and probably Formula 1000 in the UK,” he shared. Currently back in the US with his family, Medina is seeking additional support from commercial sponsors to further his professional driving career. He dreams of competing in Formula 4 and even up to Formula 3, and he is determined to work hard to achieve his goals. With Filipino drivers gaining recognition on the international stage, Medina hopes to find himself on the podium in various racing competitions abroad someday. Rainy Medina represents the growing talent and passion for motorsports in the Philippines. As he sets his sights on international racing success, he serves as an inspiration to aspiring drivers and a reminder that with dedication, skill, and support, dreams can become a reality.
MOTOLITE URGES CAUTION IN STORING USED LEAD ACID BATTERIES MOTOLITE is advising motorists and businesses to exercise caution when storing used lead acid batteries (ULABs) on their premises. The company highlights the potential dangers associated with improper storage, including the risk of fire and contamination caused by the chemicals and toxic heavy metals present in old batteries. Improper storage of ULABs can result in acid spillage, contaminating nearby items and posing a fire hazard. Short circuits may occur if two battery terminals come into contact, and the accumulation of heat and pressure could lead to battery explosions. The presence of office supplies, thinners, and paint cans stored in close proximity to the car batteries exacerbated the situation. To address these hazards, the storage, transportation, and disposal of ULABs are regulated under the implementing rules of Republic Act (RA) 6969, also known as the Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act. ULABs are classified as hazardous waste due to their environmental, health, and safety implications. While some motorists choose to keep their old batteries for alternative uses such as lighting or power
purposes, giving them to relatives, or using them as spare batteries, Motolite advises that it is more sensible to trade in old or failing batteries for a discount when purchasing new ones. To ensure safe storage of ULABs, Motolite recommends the following steps: 1. Stack junk batteries on pallets and keep them upright at all times to prevent acid spillage. 2. Stack ULABs to a maximum of five layers per pallet, ensuring that the terminals of the batteries do not touch each other to prevent short-circuiting. 3. Store palletized batteries inside a covered facility with a concrete pavement to prevent acid or electrolyte from percolating into the soil. 4. If a covered facility is unavailable, cover the batteries with a tent or tarpaulin to divert rainwater. 5. Leaking batteries should be stored in acidresistant containers such as polyethylene buckets or drums, which should be securely closed. 6. Establish a curbed or bunded area coated with acid-resistant epoxy or plastic sheeting to contain potential acid spillage and prevent contamination. 7. Ensure the isolation of ULABs from other chemicals, non-compatible goods, and combustible
items. 8. When transporting ULABs, avoid mixing them with other hazardous materials in the vehicle and secure them properly to prevent damage and short circuits. Motolite suggests that motorists and enterprises contact a government-accredited entity to handle their ULABs instead of storing them, especially if they accumulate a significant number of batteries regularly. Motolite, in partnership with its accredited recycler Evergreen Environmental Resources Inc. (EERI), offers assistance in this regard. Motolite actively encourages its customers to trade in their ULABs for a discount when purchasing new batteries. For battery concerns and needs, motorists can contact Motolite 24/7 through their official hotlines. Additionally, Motolite offers free services such as battery replacement, addressing overheating and flat tires, and emergency refueling through the Motolite Res-Q App, the first of its kind in the Philippines. By availing these services and trade-in discounts, motorists can avoid the need to store old batteries, thereby reducing associated risks.
OPINIO
SPORTS
RANDY M. CALUAG, Issue Editor
JANUARY 7, 2024 |
B3
COACH GAS
THIS SENIOR CAN STILL FIGHT, DO EXTREME SPORT G By Joel C. Atencio
ASTON Joya, affectionately known as Coach Gas in the mixed martial arts (MMA) community, proves that age is just a number as he goes back to his first love—martial arts— and fearlessly explores new horizons, including extreme sport like bungee jumping.
A seasoned martial arts buff, Joya has been an integral part of the combat sports scene since his high school days at the University of the Philippines Integrated School in Diliman, Quezon City. “I was weak, short, and thin even during high school. I was being bullied by one classmate. Another classmate, Ben Bongolan, took pity on me and enrolled me under his Sensei, in my first formal Karate class,” recalls Joya in an interview via messenger. Unbeknownst to Joya, Bongolan was already a black belter at that time, setting the stage for his journey into the world of martial arts. Joya was on his way to Bohol for a bungee jump adventure during this interview. Coach Gas remained undeterred by concerns voiced by college buddies.
Kim Fajardo
VOLLEYBALL: PLDT SIGNS FAJARDO
Gaston Joya goes bungee jumping
Coach Gas (right) after drawing his bout against martial arts master Domeng Catamputan
Joya’s friends, including retired Philippine Airlines flight steward Ramon Eduardo Santiago and former presidential speechwriter Ric Fernandez, express worr y about potential bone fractures during his daring exploits. In his college days, Coach Gas was known for his cool yet short-tempered persona. Santiago fondly reminisces about an almost bar fight in 1983 near Port Area, Manila, where Joya showcased remarkable restraint. “Coach Kuya Gas kept his cool when we stopped him,” recalls Santiago. Describing Joya as a Robert Downey Jr. look-alike, Santiago humorously envisioned a movie scene resembling a Jacky Chan-Robert Downey Jr. collaboration had the potential melee not been prevented.
Joya took a B.S. in Industrial Engineering, but financial constraints led him to pursue a career as a martial arts coach instead, eventually earning the title of Sensei. Fernandez, his college friend and founder of UPMAC (UP Martial Arts Circle), highlights Joya’s resilience, especially during a time when martial arts, excluding Arnis, faced a ban at UPLB due to a tragic boxing incident in the early 1970s. RETURN TO FIGHT ARENA After more than four decades, Joya re-entered the fight arena, this time inside the modern MMA cage. Competing at the age of 63, he engaged in three kickboxing matches against fellow masters, drawing twice and losing once on a split decision. Joya described the experience as fostering brotherhood among legends. “It was respect among fighters and a sense of accomplishment.” Beyond the cage, Joya continues to inspire with his resilience, proving that age is no barrier to new adventures and achievements.
P L DT h a s a d d e d a n o t h e r decorated setter to complement Rhea Dimaculangan after it signed Kim Fajardo. Fajardo, a six-time PSL Best Setter, guided F2 Logistics to multiple championships in the now-defunct league. However, after seven years with the team, the La Salle great is embarking on a new chapter following the disbandment of the Cargo Movers, and she is eagerly looking forward to it. “Gusto kong ma-challenge sa bagong systema. Gusto ko pang matuto,” the 30-year-old playmaker out of Calatagan, Batangas said. The past few years have been challenging for Fajardo, marked by numerous injuries. With PLDT, she aims not only to regain her health but also to lead the franchise to its first-ever professional title. “Gusto kong maibalik ‘yung dati kong kondisyon. Kayang kaya pa basta with the proper mindset and the guidance of my new coaches and teammates. Nakaka-excite lang isipin na bago lahat.” Recently, the High Speed Hitters released Mich Morente, Mean Mendrez, and Anj Legacion. Other former members of F2 who have found new homes include Dawn Macandili and Jov Fernandez (Cignal); Ivy Lacsina (Nxled); Ara Galang and Aby Marano (Chery Tiggo); and Joy Dacoron (Petro Gazz).
REVIVING PH ATHLETICS: KEON SEEKS FOCUS ON HOMEGROWN TALENTS By Reyno David III ONCE a dominant force in Asian track and field, the Philippines now graces the global stage, largely owing to the accomplishments of world no. 2 pole vaulter, Ernest John Obiena. However, there’s a yearning for the nation to do more, reminiscent of the golden era marked by the Gintong Alay program in 1979 under President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., which achieved unparalleled success under the guidance of Michael Keon, the project’s executive director. Keon and his coaching team played a pivotal role in developing legendary athletes such as former Asia’s sprint queen Lydia de Vega, long jump queen Elma Muros, tracksters Isidro del Prado, Hector Begeo, and Renato Unso. Keon, who now serves as the mayor of Laoag City, continues to use his keen eye for talent to train athletes in Ilocos. Reflecting on the Gintong Alay era, Keon believes that exceptional athletes are not rare but emphasizes the importance of proper talent scouting. “There are other Lydia de Vegas out there. There
are other Elma Muroses out there. There are other Isidro del Prados out there,” Keon said. “It’s just that people are not properly looking for this talent. You must have talent scouts who know what to look for.” Keon emphasizes that athletes primarily hailed from the lower-income bracket. He’s doing just that at his hometown in Ilocos where he trains athletes and continues to spot talents and drive their goals. “If I can find athletes like these in Ilocos Region, I am sure there are more in other parts of the country,” said the 69-year-old local government executive. During regional and national athletic meets, Keon said he always keeps a close eye on the competition and is always on the lookout for exceptional athletes. During the Gintong Alay program, the track and field alone broke more than 100 records at the Asian, SEA Games, and Philippine levels. The Gintong Alay era produced recordbreaking athletes like Begeo and del Prado, whose achievements in the 2,000-meter and 3,000-meter steeplechase, and the 400-meter mark, still stand today.
Keon questions why records meant to be broken have remained untouched for decades, highlighting the need for a renewed focus on training and development. Keon advocates for a return to the grassroots development of homegrown athletes, lamenting the trend of taking the easy route by recruiting Fil-foreigners. He underscores the importance of nurturing local talents and empowering them to achieve success on both national and international levels. He laments the growing reliance on Fil-foreign athletes, arguing that the country should focus on developing local talents rather than importing athletes who do not reside in the Philippines permanently. “Personally, I hold no objections to athletes with Filipino heritage representing the country in various international competitions. In our case, the Fil-foreigner athletes we rely on to represent the Philippines do not actually reside in the country,” said Keon. “During the tenure of Project Gintong Alay from
Michael Keon late 1979 to 1986, we relied purely on indigenous, homegrown, local talents.” “There is so much potential in this country. We should dominate Southeast Asia,” said Keon, adding that Thailand and Vietnam are now lording it over the region. “We used to dominate Thailand and Vietnam. Now it’s the other way around.”
LGU
B4 | JANUARY 7, 2024
PATRICIA TACULAO-DELIGERO, Issue Editor lgu.manilastandard@gmail.com
BUILDING A ‘BARO A LAOAG’ UNDER MICHAEL MARCOS KEON By Patricia Taculao-Deligero
Ilocos Norte Gov. Matthew Marcos Manotoc awarding one of the ten outstanding officers
ILOCOS NORTE HONORS FINEST OFFICERS GOVERNOR Matthew Marcos Manotoc led the Provincial Government in celebrating its bravest at the INTOPS Awarding Ceremony on Dec. 28, 2023. Ten exceptional police officers were recognized for their outstanding service and unwavering dedication across various fields. Ilocos Norte’s Ten Outstanding Police Officers in the Service (INTOPS) award shines a spotlight on those who go the extra mile, ensuring the safety and well-being of their communities. Each awardee displayed their unique skills and commitment, from tackling illegal activities to fostering trust and collaboration with the public.
L
AOAG City Mayor Michael Marcos Keon, now on his second term, undoubtedly has politics in his blood. After all, he hails from the Marcos clan, which continues to prove its prowess in the Philippines’ political landscape. He was born on Sept. 22, 1954, to the late Australian journalist Michael James Keon and former Ilocos Norte Governor Elizabeth Marcos Keon, who served from 1971 to 1983. Keon spent his formative years overseas, including Italy, Australia, and Thailand. He credits this upbringing as the influence behind his leadership and management style. The Laoag Mayor sees himself as tough but fair and hardworking. And although he’s careful about his decisions, he always
takes responsibility and accountability for his actions. Yet besides heeding his call as a public leader, he also has a deep-seated passion for sports, which he discovered in his youth when Keon participated and won in track and swim meets in the schools he attended. By the time he was pursuing his college education at the University of the Philippines Diliman, he competed in the 41st season of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), winning in the 5,000-meter middle distance and setting a new record of 16 minutes and three seconds. When Keon was 25, his uncle, the late former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., appointed him as the Executive Director of the Gintong Alay Project, the government’s national sports program. Keon had firsthand experience as a public leader, eventually becoming aware that he could do more for his fellow Filipinos. Under Keon’s leadership, the program established a fortified foundation in the Philippines’ sports industry and had an overwhelming impact on the country’s culture and international profile, producing athletes like Lydia de Vega and Isidro del Prado and making new records
REP. MARCOS, DOLE DELIVER FINANCIAL AID TO LAOAG, BURGOS JUST before 2023 came to a close, Ilocos Norte First District Rep. Sandro Marcos and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) delivered a wave of relief and joy to Laoag City and the Municipality of Burgos with a P9.7 million TUPAD payout for 2,239 beneficiaries. The Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program provides temporary employment and financial support to those in need. Beyond immediate relief, TUPAD offers valuable work experience and skill development, empowering individuals to seek permanent employment in the future. This strengthens the local economy and fosters a more prosperous and resilient community.
in various international games. Fortunately, it wasn’t the only opportunity Keon had to prove himself. In 2007, he became the Ilocos Norte Governor and focused on healthcare, education, agriculture, and tourism, emphasizing preserving the province’s natural environment and cultural heritage. But in 2018, when Sen. Imee R. Marcos appointed Keon as city councilor of Laoag, he saw the city’s numerous issues and challenges that needed addressing. He heeded the call for a dire change in leadership and ran during the 2019 elections, eventually taking on the mantle of mayor. With his appointment came a promise for progressive change, along with numerous individuals who shared the same goal of transforming Laoag into an even more prosperous city. One of his notable achievements is paying off Laoag’s loans during his first year as mayor. As mayor, Keon is always putting his best foot forward to meet the city’s vision of shaping a “BARO A LAOAG (Bagong Laoag/New Laoag),” which empowers its people through inclusive governance to sustain economic growth and its vibrant culture, while promoting environmental preservation and adapting resiliency. Keon also takes public opinion seriously to determine how to serve his constituents better. With him at the helm, he expects to leave a legacy of a new Laoag thriving and bustling with investments across various sectors.
Laoag City Mayor Michael Marcos Keon
SCHOOL GARDENS TAKE ROOT. Laoag City Mayor Michael Marcos Keon attended the opening of a school-based urban agriculture garden at Salet Elementary School. The project is a collaboration between the city government, the Agricultural Training Institute, and the Department of EducationLaoag. ‘Gulayan sa Paaralan’ aims to highlight the importance of organic farming and supplemental feeding to teach young students the relevance of growing and eating vegetables. The school-based garden project was first introduced at Eulalio F. Siazon Memorial Elementary School. (Photos from the City Government of Laoag’s Facebook page)
LAOAG VICE MAYOR URGES PUBLIC TO PREVENT FOREST FIRE
Beneficiaries patiently waiting to claim the TUPAD payout from DOLE and Cong. Sandro Marcos
Thick fumes rise after a grassfire hit a forested area of the La Paz sand dunes in Laoag City
LAOAG City Vice Mayor Rey Carlos Fariñas on Monday called on the public to help prevent grassfires during this dry and windy season. Fariñas, founder of the Fariñas Fire and Rescue Volunteers in Laoag, made the call after he and his team responded to a grass fire in Barangay 33B, La Paz, Laoag City within the La Paz dunes, a popular tourist destination for 4x4 rides and sand boarding in Ilocos Norte province. He said the grass fire was caused by some drunken men who lit fireworks near the 4x4 view deck as evidenced by a recovered empty fireworks box and lighter.
Fire authorities said the blaze was put out immediately with the help of the village’s firefighting brigade and the operators of 4x4, who used big drums filled with water from the firetruck and transported them using the 4x4 vehicle because the fire truck could not go near the grassfire area. “Let us be vigilant to prevent forest fire[s] that could risk the lives and properties of our constituents,” Fariñas said, noting that the incident happened near residential properties. Authorities have been raising alarm over the rising incidents of forest and grass fires in Ilocos Norte, with 23 recorded incidents from February to March 6, 2023 alone, which tore through the city of Batac and the towns of Vintar, Sarrat, Currimao, Marcos, Banna, Piddig, Paoay, Solsona, and Nueva Era. Marcel Tabije, head of the provincial resiliency office, said most of the wildfires reported during the period were due to human activities that involved “burning of agricultural farm wastes and throwing of cigarette butts in grassy areas.” “We urge the public to be vigilant and report it immediately to the Bureau of Fire Protection if you happen to see a grassfire incident,” he said. Aside from limited manpower, officials of the Bureau of Fire Projection (BFP) here said they currently lack forest fire fighting equipment and a jet shooter backpack. The BFP has been recommending to local authorities the installation of radio towers in isolated areas to ensure quick response in case of wildfires. PNA
NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer email: lifeandshow.manilastandard.gmail.com
YoungLIFE
JANUARY 7, 2024 |
C1
HERE’S WHAT’S IN FOR THE
2024 FASHION TRENDS
2
024 fashion takes sustainability, individuality, and innovation at the forefront. Fashion designer and industry expert Roxoanne BaganoDizon noted that it is a fusion of personal expression and conscious consumerism. “It is a greater celebration of unique personal style and a move away from mass-produced, homogenous trends,” she started. “Ethical practices are more deeply entrenched in the industry with an increased focus on eco-friendly materials, recycling, and reducing waste,” she added. Bagano-DIzon likewise revealed the decline in the prevalence of fast fashion. “Throwaway and single-use items are becoming less prominent as consumers prioritize quality, longevity, and sustainable production. They likewise invest in timeless pieces,” she stated. “Several are making waves with their commitment to the advocacy,” she added. “Locally, we have emerging brands Riotaso and Repamana that champion upcycling and repurposing old materials into beautiful creations.” To guide the general public, the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) educator rounded up next year’s necessities per the giant trend forecast WGSN, which comprises of over 250 experts and data scientists. WGSN curates an immense online library of insights and inspirations in fashion, retail, and the whole lifestyle industry. With globally available information on hand, Benilde
continues to provide innovative learning tools and experiences. Sartorial styling reigns the racks following the casualization of tailoring. City dressing persists for its timelessness, adaptability, and carefree vibe. Statement blazers are reimagined with gender-inclusive fits: boxy and oversized shapes, flap pockets, double-breasted closures, and sculpted shoulders. Modern academia is likewise in. The upgraded preppy features subverted popular youth essentials with subtle yet novel tweaks. Key details include artful checks, fluid maxi skirts with tiered, shirred, and ruched details, tops, and trousers
with a hint of transparency. In contrast to the carefully thoughtout stands the deconstructed. Odd, asymmetric fit, altered garments, twisted and manipulated textiles, and unconventional poppers and zippers lead the way. The modern romantic goes for both women and men. For the ladies, the ultra-feminine is updated with various elements and lighthearted styling, and the basics are met with decorative pieces. Masculinity in formal wear is redefined with a polished look. Tuxedo blazers don different fabrics, shades, and print blockings while textured jackets and lightweight suits aim for comfort and ease. For an edge, leather coats in all grain types and classic colors make for a long-term appeal. Elevated utility goes for all, as the new year leans toward practicality. The ladies’ section comprises chic boilersuits, cargo pants, and structured jackets in high-end materials while the men’s category introduces functional details with a futuristic perspective: loose fits, statement pockets, and feature zippers. Softer and warmer color schemes with a minimalist approach lend a fresher look. Leather, rivets, and metal trims make for stress-filled gear while all-black ensembles come in glossy leather and plush suede options. Those who wish to experiment with proportions for a more dynamic approach may opt for wide-leg pants. Volume silhouettes and barrel-leg jeans dominate denim styles, while refined staples go for a put-together look. Bagano-Dizon also confirmed the return of statement accessories, from ornamental belts with contrasting
Fashion designer and industry expert Roxoanne Bagano-Dizon
colors, eye-catching buckles, and longer straps to matching rings and mixed-material bracelets. Unconventional outfits likewise call for super-sized shield shades, while tinted options with metal or chunky frames offer various shapes and tones. Soft to structured clutch bags can be worn day through night. Top handle bags are also popular for men. Oversized, circular, and sculptural with quality materials strike a balance between the modern and the classic. The pointed toe stands as a unifying shoe element, from pumps to knee boots. Highlights include statement mules with flat iterations and feature heels. Sandals with color-block straps and lugged soles complement the sartorial sports trend. Utility boots are in demand for practical influences.
Opt for loose fits and structured pockets for a futuristic kind of fashion
Relaxed suiting aims for comfort and ease
Score this sheer dress at Givenchy
Redefine masculinity wearing a polished look formal wear outfit
Explore your fashion statement with a deconstructed look this 2024
Tuxedo blazers are also in this year for all genders
TIMELESS ELEGANCE
TOM FORD UNVEILS LATEST COLLECTION THAT CELEBRATES ELEGANCE ACROSS AGES, GENDERS, AND STYLES VISION Express hosted an event at its flagship store in Glorietta 2, introducing the much-awaited Tom Ford Eyewear Collection featuring sophisticated and contemporary frames and sunglasses. Enthusiasts of Tom Ford can now indulge in the epitome of style as the Tom Ford Latest Eyewear Collection, which also explores a realm where tradition meets innovation and elevates your eyewear game to new heights. Renowned designer Tom Ford believes that good taste transcends boundaries, whether it’s age, skin color, or gender. The Tom Ford 2023 Eyewear Collection exemplifies this philosophy by offering a diverse array of eyewear suitable for all ages and style preferences.
The new collection stands out with its exclusive styles that cater to diverse tastes, offering a curated selection of contemporary fashion. Designed for everyday wear, the collection seamlessly blends style and practicality. Prioritizing safety, it is crafted from non-toxic, hypoallergenic materials, reflecting Tom Ford’s commitment to both fashion and well-being. As a leading optical chain in the Philippines, Vision Express provides cutting-edge eye care technology and showcases an impressive array of over 60 designer eyewear brands. Vision Express operates under the ownership of House of Branded Lifestyle Inc. Tom Ford’s new collection is now available at select Vision Express stores nationwide.
Elevate your eyewear game to new heights with this newest collection Shop your favorite eyewear and experience cutting-edge eye care technology
Wide-leg trousers are perfect for people who want to experiment fashion in a moredynamic approach
C2 | JANUARY 7, 2024
SHOWBIZ
, NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer email: lifeandshow.manilastandard @gmail.com
‘MERON NA’
RAP ICON LOONIE MAKES A RESOUNDING COMEBACK WITH A NEW RECORD
The anime’s second season continues the story with a new Magus named Mystere.
FUTURISTIC JAPANESE ANIME RETURNS WITH NEW EPISODES
By Angelica Villanueva
A
FTER a threeyear hiatus that left Filipino hip-hop fans hungry, local rapper Loonie finally returned to the music scene with a feast through his latest album, Meron Na. Known for his hit songs “Tao Lang,” “Balewala,” and “Ganid,” the rap battle artist’s new album marked more than just a comeback; it’s a homecoming, a full-circle moment for the artist who redefined the genre in his own right. “After [my last album], there were many heartbreaks in terms of disappointments and unmet expectations, like my song ‘Tao Lang’ which I didn’t know I wasn’t the owner of. I went through many managers who took advantage of my innocence in the business side of music. Before, I was only focused on the artistic side.” Loonie said. Loonie, Marlon Peroramas in real life, shared how discouraged he was to create new music due to what happened. “I couldn’t see how making ‘Meron Na’ consists of 12 tracks, which include the carrier single, ‘Pamanggulo’
After a few years in hiatus, Loonie is back in the music scene
music would make sense. You can’t upload it to your own channel. It’s a different way of earning. It’s a different way of getting rich. During that time, I chose to gamble on battle rap. I even acted. I appeared in the award-winning movie ‘Respeto’,” he added. Now that he’s part of a new label, Loonie revealed that he had creative freedom and control in terms of his art. “Now, in 2023, I found a good partnership with Believe Music. There were labels that approached me before, but it didn’t really make sense. Here at Believe Music, they let me keep the publishing, they let me be in charge of booking and the merchandise. It’s like being independent, but you feel their support,” Loonie added. When asked about his latest album, the rapper stated, “They can still expect the vintage Loonie—’yung nagustuhan nila sa akin sa lyrics and quotable.” Meron Na has 12 tracks with the carrier song, “Pamangglo” which he dedicated to those “unseen”
people. “It means the one in the middle. All the people in the middle are not appreciated. Like in siblings, the eldest and the youngest are always asked about, what about the middle child. It’s a song about beginnings, endings, and everything in between,” he said. Loonie’s Meron Na is now streaming on all digital streaming platforms.
AFTER leaving fans on a breathtaking cliffhanger, Synduality Noir returns with all-new episodes starting tomorrow, Jan. 8. Set in the year 2242, part one of Synduality Noir stunned viewers with the disappearance of fan-favorite characters Aoi Koga and Noir, only to double down on the shock factor with the exciting unveiling of a new Magus called Mystere at the end of the last episode. Powerful and skilled enough to best even Silver Storm, not much else is known about this dangerous new character. Returning with new episodes, Synduality Noir part one followed a group of humans forced deep underground in the wake of a terrible catastrophe known as the “Tears of the New Moon” incident. After life in their underground city began to collapse, the humans were once again pushed to the surface, where a threat known as the Enders roamed, looking to kill any humans they discovered. With their lives at risk, groups of people came together to create tight-knit settlements in various locations on the surface, relying on unique energy sources to power them and keep them safe. But with resources ever-dwindling, a group of brave individuals known as Drifters ventured out into the open, battling the Enders and mining energy sources. Synduality Noir part two will join an ever-growing library of exciting Japanese anime content available on Disney+. Fans of unmissable Japanese storytelling can subscribe to Disney+ today to enjoy access to other captivating series including Phoenix: Eden17, an adaptation of Osamu Tezuka’s seminal work that takes viewers on a dangerous extraterrestrial adventure to a new planet filled with nothing but misery; Ishura, about a chaotic world experiencing a power struggle between demigods following the death of the Demon King; and Gannibal, about a newly relocated police officer who discovers a horrifying secret about the residents of his village.
Set in the year 2242, ‘Synduality Noir’ tells the story of a group of people surviving a catastrophe
49TH MMFF BEST ACTOR CEDRICK JUAN SHARES JOURNEY FROM THEATER TO BIG SCREEN
Theater and film actor Cedrick Juan
Cedrick (center) portrays the role of Padre Burgos alongside Enchong Dee (left) and Dante Rivero
METRO Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Best Actor Cedrick Juan, who portrayed Padre Burgos in the film Gomburza, talks about his journey from theater to independent films to bit and lead roles in mainstream movies. In the news magazine show, Tao Po, host Bernadette Sembrano gets to know Cedrick as he tells the story of fighting for his dream to become an actor despite objections from his family. The MMFF awardee also shares future career plans and goals this 2024. Cedrick has been part of 18 films and 15 television dramas since launching his acting career in 2008. Early on, he engaged with Dulaang UP at the University of the Philippines and the FEU-Art
Theatre Clinique at Far Eastern University. Theater enthusiasts recognize Cedrick for his recent role in the musical Mula sa Buwan, a musical adaptation of Edmond Rostand’s Cyrano De Bergerac. Last year, he landed the role of Fr. Jose Burgos in the historical drama Gomburza, a dramatization of the events leading to the execution of the titular martyr priests implicated in the Cavite Mutiny. Initially auditioning for a different role, Cedrick was approached by the movie’s director, Pepe Diokno, who offered him the opportunity to portray Fr. Burgos instead. Tao Po airs today at 2:15 p.m. on A2Z and 6:15 p.m. on Kapamilya Channel Kapamilya Online Live, and ABS-CBN News Online.
CRAVINGS
JOYCE PANGCO PAÑARES, Issue Editor email: joyce.panares@gmail.com
JANUARY 7, 2023 |
C3
IVORY COAST CHEFS COOK UP NEW TWIST ON AFRICAN FOOD
From left: My Valentine Doughnut, Mixes Berries Cheesecake, and Mango Float Cake
W
INTER is a time to wind down from the gatherings during the holiday season, and during this time, everyone seeks comfort. The Starbucks’ winter selection is curated with a variety of delightful drinks and dishes that are comforting and delicious. These are also available via GrabFood, foodpanda, and Pick.A.Roo.
STARBUCKS BRINGS WINTER COLLECTION TO THE PHILIPPINES
Starbucks Winter Beverages
1. Honey Plum Pure Matcha Latte It is a light and sweet Pure Matcha and Honey Plum flavor with creamy milk topped with plum cold foam and sweet plum sprinkles – the perfect mix of mellow fruity notes with matcha aroma. 2. Vienna Creamy Latte Signature Starbucks espresso infused with vanilla mascarpone cheese with vanilla seeds, topped with mocha sauce and sprinkles of burnt caramel powder. 3. Coconut Double Mocha Macchiato Deliciously creamy and indulgent, the new beverage has signature espresso, white mocha sauce, rich and creamy coconut milk and mocha drizzle.
Grilled okra and cassava chips
A few kilometers away, a chef at the upscale restaurant La Maison Palmier is working on her new creation: a taster dish inspired by placali, a typical Ivorian dish made with sticky gumbo sauce, bits of meat and dried fish, accompanied by fermented manioc paste. Hermence Kadio, who trained locally, has her own much lighter take on the classic. She grilled the gumbo (okra), while the cassava is puffed up and turned into chips. Guardian Dragon Collection and the new Coconut Double Mocha Macchiato
Starbucks Winter Food
1. Mango Float Cake A returning favorite, the moist and buttery cake is layered with creamy mango mousse and soft and crunchy meringue, and finished with mango buttercream icing.Best paired with Caffé Mocha or Caffè Misto. 2. My Valentine Doughnut Soft and fluffy doughnut, this returning favorite is filled with thick, smooth and creamy vanilla custard filling. Best paired with Flat White. 3. No Sugar Added White Belgian Chocolate and Pecan Pie Soft and chewy cookie, this pie is packed with sugar-free white chocolate chunks and roasted pecan nuts. Eat more with less guilt. Best paired with Iced Americano. 4. Acai Berry Bowl Cheesecake Layers of creamy smooth acai berry and
blueberry cheesecake topped with acai berry and blueberry mousse. Best paired with Dragon Drink with Mango Dragonfruit Refresher 5. Mixed Berries Yogurt Parfait An incredible versatile breakfast or snack, it has layers of yogurt and mixed berries filling, with granola on the side. Best paired with Iced Shaken Black Tea with Ruby Grapefruit and Honey. 6. Roasted Chicken Caesar Parmesan Cheese and Sun-dried Tomatoes on Focaccia Soft and crusty bread focaccia bread filled with sliced chicken, sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan cheese and creamy Caesar sauce. Best paired with Iced Cappuccino. 7. Smoked Bacon and Mushroom Bake Al dente cocciole pasta tossed in creamy cheese sauce, topped with sliced smoked bacon, guanciale, mushroom, mozzarella finished with chopped parsley. Best paired with Cold Brew.
Starbucks Winter Coffee
Starbucks Winter Rewards Card
1. Single-origin Guatemala Casi Cielo Sourced from Guatemala’s highaltitude volcanic Antiguan region, this batch of Guatemala
Casi Cielo coffee represents our expression of one of our most-beloved coffee origins. With elegant floral aromatics and notes of citrus and dark chocolate, this single-origin coffee is not to be missed. Bright, smooth and irresistibly balanced. Flavor Notes: Bright Meyer Lemon and Cocoa Nibs 2. Single-Origin Honduras Marcala Located in the Western Highlands of Honduras, Marcala experiences both cool mountain air and tropical heat throughout the day, creating the perfect conditions for growing sublime coffee. However, the true success of this region lies in its resilience. Challenged by urbanization and climate change, coffee farmers continue to preserve in the effort to ensure the future of Honduran coffee. Each cup captures the spirit of their dedication, layered with notes of orange blossom and macadamia nuts. Flavor Notes: Orange Blossom and Macadamia Nuts 3. Costa Rica Tres Ríos This coffee represents Starbucks' longstanding partnership with Bella Vista farm. Their dedication and commitment results in a cup with delicious notes of Hazelnut Chocolate and Cara Cara orange with an inviting demerara-syrup sweetness. Flavor Notes: Hazelnut Chocolate and Cara Cara Orange Starbucks Winter Merchandise are also available in all Starbucks stores and on the Starbucks flagship store on Lazada and Shopee while supplies last. These include the Guardian Dragon and the 2024 Zodiac Collection.
JOLLIBEE BRINGS BACK 'MIX MATCH COMBOS' WHILE customers often seek for things that offer the best value for their money, they sometimes feel that they need to settle for less. However, no compromise is needed with Jollibee’s Mix Match Combos, with each option combining value and great taste. These combos offer a variety of Jollibee’s best-tasting products, promising customers an enjoyable, filling, and wallet-friendly meal. For only P75, customers can select a main dish and a side dish, enjoying savings of up to P45. The experience comes in two simple steps: Step 1: Choose one main dish – Yumburger, Jolly Spaghetti, 1 pc. Burger Steak, or Tuna Pie Step 2: Choose one side dish – Peach Mango Pie, Coke Float Jolly Crispy Fries, Choco
IN THE kitchen of his Abidjan restaurant, Ivory Coast chef Charlie Koffi prepares his country's staggering tropical bounty with the techniques of fine French cuisine. And he's far from alone. A growing number of his fellow chefs in the West African nation are retouching local specialities with cooking skills picked up elsewhere. One of Koffi's signature dishes is an adaptation of gouagouassou sauce, a local specialty. In his version, a rabbit is stewed with African eggplants, spicy oil, powdered akpi seeds and local fefe pepper. "It is one of the dishes I really loved as a child," Koffi told AFP. "As a chef, it was almost an obligation to come back to it." Koffi was trained in France before opening his Abidjan restaurant, Villa Alfira, in 2017 to showcase his country's cuisine. In the well-lit main dining room overlooking a pond where fish on the menu swim, Eric Guei tucked into a gouagouassou casserole. "I find taste and audacity in this dish," the happy customer said. "It mixes Western knowhow with local flavors." Guei enjoyed the copious but beautifully presented meal with his friend Yasmine Doumbia. "Gouagouassou is a very traditional Ivory Coast dish, and to see it in a restaurant like this is a real pleasure," she said. Villa Alfira is a change from the “maquis," typical animated local eateries where braised chickens and fish are eaten by hand, along with traditional sauces, manioc polenta, and fried plantains.
Sundae, Pineapple Juice “Jollibee’s Mix Match Combos empower customers to craft their own sulit-sarap experience. This offering stands out for its superior blend of value, taste, substantial portions, convenience, affordability, and variety,” said Mari Aldecoa, Assistant Vice President for Jollibee Masterbrand. (Jollibee’s Mix Match Combos are available nationwide for only P75 so be sure to drop by your nearest branch and create your perfect combination via dine-in, take-out, or drive-thru. For all the latest updates, like Jollibee on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Philippines on YouTube, and follow @ jollibee on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.)
Jollibee brings back its 'Mix Match Combos'
INNOVATIVE DISH. French chef Mathieu Gasnier serves a banana foutou appetizer with a rich sauce at the Maison Palmer restaurant in Abidjan. AFP
Every week the restaurant's French head chef Matthieu Gasnier offers amuse-bouche -small bite-sized appetizers -- like these to "reawaken the memories of people who grew up with these dishes.” About half his clientele is Ivorian, he said. "Even if our restaurant's cuisine is intended to be international since we are in a five-star hotel, I think it would be wrong not to take advantage of all these beautiful products that surround us," he said. Grains such as fonio and sorghum grow in the Ivory Coast's hot dry northern savannas, said Koffi, while the forested south produces local varieties of spinach and typical tropical products such as bananas and yams.
Healthier and tastier
N'Cho Yapi, who founded the group Chefs: Creators of Emotions, said Ivorian cooks began going back to their culinary roots just after the turn of the century. Before that, chefs at fancy restaurants "had the habit of offering Western dishes with imported products," he said. "But the cost of living kept going up," so they turned to lessexpensive products "they had just under their noses.” And local specialties are appearing more and more on the menus of the luxury restaurants that have mushroomed across Abidjan in recent years, Yapi added. Valerie Rollainth, an Ivorian chef trained in France at the famous Institut Paul Bocuse, insisted that typically hearty Ivorian cuisine is no longer suited to the capital's increasingly sedentary lifestyle. "There are too few vegetables, a shocking quantity of oil, and the dishes are cooked too long" and lose their nutrients, she said. At the nutritional workshops she organizes she urges people to eat local products in new ways, such as raw okra, which "is very good against diabetes.” "Some diseases are linked to eating habits," she said. "In the Ivory Coast, not everyone has access to health care, but everyone has access to healthy food.” AFP
C4 | JANAUARY 7, 2024
PETS
DESIREE CARLOS, Editor email: daycarlos28@yahoo.com
WHY DOGS ROLL ON THEIR BACKS By Niko Gabriel Salgado
H
AVE you ever observed how your dog instinctively turns onto its back when you approach to greet them? Dogs engage in back-rolling for more than just seeking belly rubs; there are various scientific explanations for this behavior. It is quite common among dogs and serves various purposes, ranging from alleviating an itch to expressing an invitation to play. Generally, it is considered a normal and natural canine behavior. “If your dog keeps compulsively rolling on its back, there could be an underlying health issue, such as skin infections or even allergies. The exact situation in which a dog rolls around on its back can tell you more about what they want and feel at that specific moment,” said Nicole Cosgrove in “Why Do Dogs Roll On Their Backs?” published in the Hepper website. According to Cosgrove, here are a few reasons why dogs roll on their backs: 1.Your Dog Is Itchy Similar to humans, dogs experience itches in those challenging-to-reach areas on their backs. Engaging in a good roll on the ground can provide satisfaction and assist them in reaching the elusive, perfect spot.
Sassy, a Save ALL rescue, would always roll on her back whenever she played with other dogs. This is her way of showing her playmates that she is not a threat and that she just wants to have fun.
2. Your Dog Is Marking or Hiding Their Scent There are two possible reasons why your dog might roll on their back, especially in unfamiliar surroundings. “Dogs commonly engage in back-rolling in new environments to either mark the area with their own scent or to transfer the scent of a particular item in that location onto themselves, masking their own scent in the process,” Cosgrove said.
Chelsea, a sick stray dog rescued by Save Animals of Love and Light-Save ALL Inc., rolls on her back when you pet her. She enjoys hugs and belly rubs.
3.Your Dog Is Showing They Are Not a Threat A frequent occurrence of back rolling is when your dog encounters a new canine companion. Referred to as "submissive" behavior, this action is typically a way for dogs to signal to other dogs or people that they pose no threat. 4. Your Dog Is Happy and Wants to Play In moments of joy, dogs might roll on their backs as if signaling, "Hello, please give me belly rubs and let's play!" When dogs roll on their backs during play, it provides a pleasant sensation as they can stretch and feel at ease. This behavior also signifies trust with their playmate and an eagerness to have a enjoyable time together. 5.Your Dog Is Greeting You Just like how we greet dogs, our furry companions may also roll over as a way of saying "hello" to us.
The following are signs to know whether your dog is providing a happy greeting instead of an anxious one according to Cosgrove: · tail wags · butt wiggles · relaxed eyes and ears 6.What to Watch Out For Before Petting “Observe your dog's body language to discern whether they are signaling an invitation for you to pet them when they roll on their back,” said Cosgrove. Another situation where it's advisable to refrain from interaction is when your dog is rolled on their back and asleep, as surprising them may not be ideal. About the Author: Niko Gabriel Salgado is a graduate of consular and diplomatic affairs from De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, and worked at the House of Representatives. He is now an entrepreneur and a volunteer of the animal welfare group Save Animals of Love and Light- Save ALL.
HOW TO CARE FOR SENIOR DOGS
By Mariana Burgos
DOGS live an average of around 12 to 13 years. However, many live considerably longer. Senior dogs, like humans, require special attention as they age. And, like people, some older dogs grow grumpy, "makulit," and forgetful too. As a dog owner, you should be aware of all the ways you can help to improve your dog's quality of life throughout their golden years. Laura Mueller, in the article "Simple Ways to Keep Your Aging Dog Healthy and Happy," says the process of becoming a senior dog is determined by size and heredity. According to her, large breed dogs are considered seniors early in life, with some enormous breeds starting at the age of 5 or 6 years old, while smaller breeds become senior dogs later in life, around the age of 8 to 10. Here are some tips from Mueller on how to care for our senior dogs: 1. Add another schedule of vet visits. Mueller suggests that, in addition to your normal once-a-year appointment to your veterinarian, you make a mid-year visit. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) says doing so will help in creating baselines for your pet's health and guarantee that "clinically silent health abnormalities" will be detected sooner rather than later. 2. Maintaining a healthy diet. A dog's nutritional needs alter as he or she ages. It varies by breed and size, but your dog may benefit from gradually transitioning to a senior dog food at the age of seven. A veterinarian can help you decide what is best. Monitor your pet's eating and drinking habits, and report any changes in their feeding patterns or weight to your veterinarian, since there might be an underlying medical reason. If you have other, younger dogs in the house, make sure your senior dog can get to their meal without having to compete.
An old man takes a walk with his senior dog. Senior dogs still need exercise, but not as strenuous that younger dogs require. (Photo taken from iStock royaltyfree images.)
3. Provide supplements as prescribed by your vet. There are several vitamins that may help your dog stay healthy as they age. Glucosamine and chondroitin can assist to preserve the cartilage in your dog's joints and have been shown to help control the discomfort of osteoarthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids can also aid to minimize joint inflammation, lessen the need for additional pain drugs, and may benefit dogs with cognitive impairments since they enhance cell membrane health. Although there is not much scientific data, antioxidants may aid enhance memory and cognition in elderly dogs. It is critical to understand that not all supplements are made equal. We highly advise selecting brands that have stringent quality control procedures in place and whose products have been subjected to clinical trials to prove their safety and efficacy. Human supplements should never be given to dogs since they may contain hazardous substances, and you should always check your veterinarian before beginning a new supplement regimen for your dog.
6. Give your aging dog additional stimulus. A number of studies have indicated that mental stimulation can assist to mitigate the consequences of deteriorating cognition in dogs. Consider offering extra 'brain teasers' for your dog, such as food puzzle toys, sensory activities, teaching obedience or trick training, and fostering regular socialization with other dogs. 7. Make some adventure time. Mueller reminds us that spending quality time with our dogs becomes increasingly more vital as they age. By going on regular outings together, you can make the most of every time and expose them to new noises, sights, and scents. Make the greatest moments for him/her to remember and treasure.
4. Watch out for signs of pain and other changes in behavior. In addition to keeping a close check on any bodily changes (as suggested by Mueller), you should also keep an eye out for behavioral changes, as these are frequently the earliest indicators of disease. Any change in behavior that last more than a week or so may need a visit to your veterinarian.
8. Assist your older dog with grooming. As their mobility declines, elderly dogs may be unable to reach all regions of their bodies as effectively as they once did, and they may struggle to keep themselves as clean as they once did. Schedule frequent brushing sessions to eliminate knots and loose fur before it becomes matted. You may need to do this weekly or every few days, depending on your dog's coat and whether it's shedding season. Your dog may also require more frequent washes than previously. Grooming appointments are an excellent opportunity to perform a 'once over' on your dog to check for any lumps or bumps.
5. Adjust your senior dog's exercise routine. Your dog's stamina and mobility will deteriorate over time, so you will need to adapt their exercise program appropriately. You may need to switch jogs and hikes for walks, and divide longer walks into multiple shorter ones. Choose low-impact workouts; avoid anything that requires running or leaping; and try taking your dog swimming during the warmer months if they like the water.
9. Maintain your older dog's dental health. Dental health is crucial at all ages, but especially during your dog's senior years, when a lifetime of eating and chewing wears down their teeth and gums. Brush your dog's teeth once a day using dog-safe toothpaste, and have your vet inspect them during wellness examinations. Remember that your dog's teeth deteriorate with age, so never offer them hard chews, bones, antlers, or hard toys. An old dog enjoys his comfy bed.(Photo taken from iStock royalty-free images.)
Yumi (daughter of the author) with her now senior dog, Milky, whom she adopted from Save Animals of Love and Light-Save ALL Inc. 11 years ago. (Photo taken by the author.)
10. Adapt your elderly dog's environment to keep them comfortable. You may need to make a few changes to your house to keep your elderly dog comfortable: - Avoiding stairs and steps: Climbing stairs can be difficult or uncomfortable for seniors, especially those who have arthritis. You may need to relocate their sleeping place or consider adding ramps to help them negotiate steps more comfortably. If your dog likes to snuggle up with you on the couch, a ramp going to the couch may be useful, and smaller dogs may need to be scooped up. - Cover slippery surfaces: As their mobility deteriorates, elderly dogs may lose their balance and find walking on hard, slick flooring distressing. Covering them with carpet, rugs, or mats provides greater grip, allowing your dog to move more freely. - Provide orthopedic bedding: Dogs with arthritis or other painful diseases may benefit from a thick, therapeutic pet bed to provide extra comfort while resting. - Raise food and water bowls: Senior dogs, especially taller dogs, may struggle to bend down to reach their food and water bowls. You may either set their feeding bowls on a platform or buy height-adjustable bowls. Although the changes your dog encounters in their senior years may appear daunting, minor improvements in their diet, activity, habitat, and care may make a significant impact in their quality and length of life. About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a freelance artist. She has been a solo parent for 16 years now because she is wife to a desaparecido. She and her daughter are animal lovers and are active in advocating not only human rights but the rights of animals as well.