Manila Standard - 2024 January 13 - Saturday

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China asks ASEAN to hasten COC on SCS, hits ‘non-regional’ critics

By Rey E. Requejo CHINA called for accelerated negotiations with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations for the conclusion of a binding Code of Conduct (COC) on the South China Sea. Chinese Foreign Affairs spokesperson

Mao Ning said Beijing is committed to meet the set target for the conclusion of the COC negotiations as she lamented the interference of a “non-regional” country in the maritime disputes between Beijing and Manila.

"We hope ASEAN countries will Next page

VOL. XXXVII • NO. 333 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • SATURDAY, JANUARY 13, 2024 •

PH back on its feet—Marcos

Says country has hurdled crises, urges envoys to help nation reach new heights

By Charles Dantes

RESIDENT Marcos declared on Thursday that the Philippines has successfully overcome the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, the repercussions of the Russia-Ukraine war, and the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

P

In his address during the annual Vin D’ Honneur in Malacañang, the President urged members of the diplomatic corps to collaborate with his administration in reaching new heights.

"I continue to enjoin the diplomatic corps to work closely with us in identifying areas where we can pursue joint and collective endeavors and initiatives,” Mr. Marcos said.

“It is with confidence that I announce that the Philippines has... I could say [has] gotten back [on] its feet from the reeling effects of the pandemic and the subsequent shocks that we have suffered from the Ukraine war and now from the conflict in the Middle East,” the President added.

He highlighted the country's economic recovery, citing improvements and catch-up spending by the government.

President Marcos said he anticipates year-end growth for 2023 to be at 6 percent to 7 percent.

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TOAST TO THE NEW YEAR. President Marcos (right) leads the traditional New Year vin d'honneur reception for members of the diplomatic corps in the Philippines at the Centennial Hall in Malacanan Palace on Thursday night. Ambassadors from 54 nations and heads of 11 international organizations were among the attendees of the vin d'honneur, which is also observed on the anniversary of Philippine independence. PCO Photo

Recto aims for P4.235t in revenue as DOF head around P4.235 trillion in revenues this year.

Recto committed this after taking his oath before President Marcos as secretary of the Department of Finance (DOF) in a ceremony at NEW Finance Secretary Ralph Rec- Malacañan Palace in Manila. “[I would] make sure that money to on Friday vowed to do his best to hit the government’s target to collect is spent wisely, the idea is to stretch

By Maricel V. Cruz, Macon Ramos-Araneta, Darwin G. Amojelar and Othel V. Campos

every peso, including acting faster on investment,” he told the media after his oathtaking.

The revenue target for 2024 was earlier projected by the Development Budget Coordination Committee.

As the new Finance chief, Recto said he would follow the National Next page

Tolentino says Senate must unite on Cha-cha; CBCP pans initiative

By Vito Barcelo SENATOR Francis Tolentino on Friday said the Senate should take a united stand amid a push to amend the 1987 Constitution.

Tolentino, vice chairman of the Senate committee on constitutionalamendments and revision of codes, said he hoped the senators could discuss a collective stand on Charter change when

the session reopens on Jan. 22.

In a radio interview, Tolentino said he and 15 other senators met Wednesday to discuss “urgent concerns,” including alleged bribes being given to push for Charter change through a people’s initiative.

Several senators have expressed concern the people were being offered P100 for their signature in a people’s Next page

SWORN IN. President Marcos (left) leads Ralph Recto in his oath of office as the new Secretary of the Department of Finance on Friday. With Recto are (from right) sister Plinky Recto, son Ryan Christian, and wife Vilma Santos-Recto. DOF Photo

PhilHealth set to expand benefits QC prosecutor with hike in premiums under UHC junks Castro case vs. Rody

THE Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) already implemented the five percent hike in its premium rates this month as scheduled under the Universal Health Care law.

"There is no message or directive from Malacañang so we already [implemented] the increase," PhilHealth president and CEO Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. said.

The premium rate will go up to five percent this year while the monthly basic

salary ceiling will increase to P100,000.

The minimum salary ceiling remains at P10,000.

This means a monthly Philhealth contribution of P500 for a worker who earns P10,000 a month. The premium contribution shall be equally shared between the employee and employer.

Ledesma said PhilHealth expects an additional P17 billion in revenues this year from the increase in premium rates.

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By Rio N. Araja and Darwin Amojelar THE Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office has dismissed the grave threats complaint filed by ACT Teachers partylist Rep. France Castro against former President Rodrigo Duterte for lack of Next page evidence.

PRINCE AND PRINCESS. Brunei's Prince Abdul Mateen (left) is seen in

an Instagram post drinking after a swim, a photo that made many women swoon until Thursday, when he married his commoner fiancée Yang Mulia Anisha Rosnah (right) in a male-only ceremony 11 as part of a lavish 10-day celebration in the oilrich sultanate.

Insta-worthy: Brunei prince weds commoner BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Brunei—In real life, he's a prince of an Islamic sultanate steeped in centuriesold traditions, but on Instagram Brunei's Abdul Mateen is more Hollywood than royalty as he flies in fighter jets, drives speed boats, and poses bare-chested after workouts.

Mateen, 32, was one of Asia's most eligible bachelors until he married his 29-year-old fiancée Yang Mulia Anisha Rosnah on Thursday in a male-only ceremony at a mosque in the capital Bandar Seri Begawan.

As the 10th child and fourth son of Next page

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‘Protect human rights amid PUVMP’ ity of PUV operators “are from the vulnerable sector who would be compelled to adhere strictly to the rigid Jan. 31 consolidation deadline that may jeopardize their right to a sustainable livelihood.”

The PUVMP lays down the process for

the mandatory consolidation of individual operators under transport cooperatives and corporations and the issuance of new franchises. It set a Dec. 31, 2023 deadline for them to consolidate into cooperatives, extended to the end of this month.

This developed as Land Transportation Office chief Vigor Mendoza II directed regional directors and district office heads to intensify an information drive on the no-registration, no-travel policy to encourage more delinquent PUV owners to renew their vehicle registrations.

The information drive would complement the aggressive operations on the

ground aimed at compelling vehicle owners to re-register, Mendoza said.

He explained that registration and renewal of registration is one of the best ways to check the road worthiness of vehicles.

But the CHR said genuine progress “is inclusive and must leave no one behind,” adding that majority of the program's financial burden would fall on drivers and operators amid the economic and financial implications of the PUVMP. “According to a report, the most serious concern is job loss as a result of the program's entry barriers,” it stressed.

He also pointed out a decline in the unemployment rate to 3.6 percent in November, From A1 lower than the rates in both October 2023 and November 2022. Underemployment The President noted the government's similarly decreased to 11.7 percent in Noefforts to maintain overall inflation at 3.9 vember from 14.4 percent the previous year. percent in December, aiming for a yearly Mr. Marcos cited projections from the inflation rate of 6 percent.

Asian Development Bank, the ASEAN +

3 Macroeconomic Research Office, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund, which forecast the Philippines to be among the fastest-growing economies in Asia in 2023.

Despite geopolitical challenges, the President earnestly called for countries to collaborate to solve political conflicts, em-

phasizing the power of collective efforts to achieve peace and prosperity.

He expressed optimism that members of the diplomatic corps would continue to serve as effective agents for their respective governments, fostering bilateral ties and exploring collaboration in regional and multilateral arenas.

working toward the adoption of the COC, which is an important measure in implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. The consultations on the COC are going smoothly," Mao said.

China and the ASEAN members, including the five other claimant states– the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam and Brunei—have been working on the COC for many years now.

It has been a perennial agenda item for China and ASEAN since 2002, when the two sides signed the non-binding DOC. Mao stressed that no "non-regional"

country should interfere in the South China Sea, including disputes with the Philippines.

"No non-regional country has the right to interfere in the maritime disputes between China and the Philippines," Mao said after German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock criticized Beijing's behavior in the disputed waters during a visit to Manila.

Baerbock lamented China's dangerous maneuvers violate international laws and impede freedom of navigation.

"I think we all agree that the world doesn't need another crisis.

There are rough winds blowing across the South China Sea, and this is happening in the middle of one of the most dynamic economic regions of the world," Baerbock said.

She said recent incidents where the Chinese Coast Guard used lasers and water cannons against Philippine vessels "are of concern for us in Europe even though we are thousands of kilometers away."

"Such risky maneuvers violate the rights opportunities for economic development of your own country and other littoral states as well," Baerbock said.

tion's fiscal policies.

"As the former chairperson of the Senate committee on ways and means, he played a pivotal role in shaping legislation that significantly impacted our country's economic landscape."

"Secretary Recto's contributions extend beyond legislative accomplishments.

His exemplary tenure as socioeconomic planning secretary and director-general of the National Economic and Development Authority reflects his competence and commitment to formulating strategies for sustainable growth and progress.

"A visionary economist, Secretary Recto has played a key role in crafting policies aligned with the needs of the people. His dedication to sound economic principles, coupled with genuine concern for the welfare of every Filipino, has earned him respect from colleagues and constituents alike."

Basilan Rep. Mujiv Hataman also praised the new Finance secretary.

“Senator Recto's track record as a legislator is remarkable, having chaired several key committees in the Senate, including on government corporations and public enterprises and science and technology.... His comprehensive understanding of the intricate details of economic and financial matters is undoubtedly an asset as we navigate the complex challenges facing our nation."

Romualdez also cited Recto’s leadership skills.

"His election as one of our deputy speakers in the 19th Congress by colleagues in the House of Representatives is a testament to his recognized capabilities,” he said.

Senators, meanwhile, said Recto would sail through the Commission on Appointments.

Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda said she will not only support Recto but will also be a co-sponsor in his confirmation.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva, Senators Francis Escudero, Juan Edgardo Angara, Nancy Binay, Grace Poe, and Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III also said they would back Recto’s appointment.

Tolentino...

petition of at least 12 percent of the total number of registered voters.

Each legislative district must also be represented by at least 3 percent of registered voters. There are currently over 67 million registered voters in the Philippines.

Amassing enough signatures would force the 24-member Senate to vote jointly with the 315-member Lower House.

“It will overpower the Senate,” Pabillo said.

In the past, the CBCP repeatedly emphasized that any moves for Charter change must be in the best interest of the people and the nation.

Also on Friday, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said it will not allow its ‘Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (Tupad)’ program to be used to push for the amendment of the 1987 Constitution.

Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma made the statement in reaction to the statement of Bayan Muna chairperson Neri Colmenares, who said thatonce the Constitution is amended, the next step is that ‘Tupad’ would be enacted into law.

Colmenares said people are being told to sign up for Charter change.

By Rio N. Araja

T person.

HE Commission on Human Rights believes the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program must not violate the human rights of any

“While we believe that modernization and development are legitimate government goals, they must be pursued without violating fundamental human rights,” it emphasized.

The CHR lamented that a vast major-

PH...

China...

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work with us toward the set target and speed up consultations for the early adoption of the COC," she said in a press briefing, adding that the "issue of the South China Sea is highly complex and faces external interference."

The Chinese official said the second reading of the COC draft was already completed, and that "the third reading has commenced."

"China and ASEAN countries are

Recto...

From A1

Development Plan crafted by the administration and ensure the continued implementation of the macrofiscal framework.

President Marcos vouched for Recto’s competence, saying the latter has a “true understanding of how the Philippine economy works.”

“In terms of what Secretary Ralph has to offer, I think there is no need to enumerate that,” he told the Palace reporters.

“He has a true understanding of our economy. He has a true understanding of how our Philippine economy works.

And I think that is the quality that he will bring to this,” Mr. Marcos added.

The President also touted Recto’s experience as a former directorgeneral of the National Economic and Development Authority and as a legislator, stressing that there are “so many new ideas and new commitments” the new finance chief has made to transform the Philippine economy.

He said Recto, who has had a “remarkable” career in public service and excelled in various roles within the government, would be a “major player” in sustaining the country’s economic growth, reaching the medium-term fiscal target, and achieving developmental goals.

Legislators from both sides of the aisle and major business groups on Friday welcomed the appointment of Recto, who was Deputy Speaker representing the province of Batangas before being called to the Cabinet, as the new Finance secretary.

"Warmest congratulations to former senator and current Deputy Speaker Ralph Recto on his well-deserved appointment as the new secretary of the Department of Finance. His extensive knowledge and profound grasp of economics uniquely qualify him for this crucial role, making him the most fitting candidate," Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said Friday.

Romualdez said Recto has consistently exhibited outstandingleadership, particularly in matters related to the na-

PhilHealth ...

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"If President Marcos freezes it, that'd be minus P17 billion for the year. But with our current cash position and with all the help we are getting from other agencies, I don't think that anything will be affected. All the plans will push through as expected," he said.

Ledesma said the state health insurer will push through with its plan to expand the coverage of its benefits packages this year.

“We commit to fund the proposed rationalization and expansion of benefits to ease the burden of the Filipino people in times of medical need and lessen the out-of-pocket expenses of members,”

Ledesma added.

As this developed, a member of the House of Representatives committee on appropriations appealed to PhilHealth to immediately implement the 30 percent increase in all its benefits and coverage.

"New year, more benefits," said AGRI party-list Rep. Wilbert Lee. "Not all Filipinos have a health card or HMO. What about our people who only rely on PhilHealth's answer for treatment? Let's think about those who choose to die at home, and unfortunately, those who died, because they did not go to the hospital for fear of going into debt due to the amount of expenses," he added.

He said PhilHealth has enough funds to cover the 30 percent increase in benefits. Maricel V. Cruz

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initiative campaign to revise the Constitution.

The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) on Friday called on the Filipino faithful to reject a signature campaign for Charter change through a people’s initiative.

Catholic Bishop Broderick Pabillo of the Apostolic Vicariate of Taytay in northern Palawan province made the appeal amid allegations of payouts in exchange for signatures.

Pabillo, who is the chairman of the CBCP’s Commission on the Laity, urged people not to sign any papers that will push for the Charter change.

“Tell people not to sign! This is not an initiative of the people but of some politicians,” Pabillo said.

He is the first bishop to openly speak against the current attempts to amend the nation’s Constitution.

Its proponents in the House of Representatives said the amendments would only focus on the economic provisions of the Constitution, which restricts the flow of foreign capital into the country.

Charter change can be done through Congress, a constitutional convention, or through a people’s initiative upon a

Insta-worthy: ...

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Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, he is unlikely to ever ascend the throne of the oil-rich country on thenorthern edge of Borneo island.

Meanwhile, the bride—the granddaughter of one of his father's keyadvisers—reportedly has a fashion brand and co-owns a tourism business.

Born Nov. 14, 1993, Anisha is of Croatian descent. She graduated fromthe University of Bath in the United Kingdom.

The new princess became the owner of the fashion label Silk Collectiveand a co-founder of Authentirary, a travel agency that providescultural experiences across many countries, according to an article published in Esquire.

But Mateen's matinee idol looks, rippling six-pack, and sense ofadventure — captured in photos and videos that are carefully curated on Instagram—have turned him into a public relations asset for the royal family, which has been battered by scandals and global censure over the years.

"He's a breath of fresh air," said Bruneian snack store worker Amyra Syahira Awang Ahmad, 20, who is among Mateen's 2.5 million Instagram followers.

A pre-wedding photo of Mateen and his fiancée, posted on Instagram onDec. 31 shows him wearing an open-neck white shirt under a dark, double-breasted blazer, while she is in a cream pantsuit and no hijab.

It drew more than 11,000 comments with some smitten followers lamenting that 2024 was starting with "heartbreak"

—a reference to their own rather than the prince's.

The photo appears to be part of an effort to burnish a more modern image of the conservative country— and make the royal family relevant to a younger generation of Bruneians that has grown up on social media.

"Prince Mateen would be what I describe as an important youthchangemaker in Brunei society," said Mustafa Izzuddin, a visitingprofessor of international relations at the Islamic University of Indonesia.

"You can call him a cultural Instagrammer because he is adept at connecting with the younger folk," he told AFP. "The current generation have different interests, values, and preferences."

Winning hearts and minds After more than five decades on the throne, the 77-year-old sultan needed to "refresh the social contract" between himself and his 450,000 subjects, said Izzuddin.

The absolute monarchy has seen its reputation tarnished in recent decades.

There was a spectacular falling out between the sultan and his playboyyounger brother Prince Jefri Bolkiah over allegations that Jefri had embezzled billions during his time as finance minister in the 1990s.

The country also faced a global backlash in 2019 when sharia law wasadded to its penal code, allowing for death by stoning and amputations of limbs for certain crimes.

The code, however, has not been actively enforced after an outcry from celebrities, the United Nations, and rights campaigners. AFP

Subic’s Aliño to replace Tan as SBMA chief PRESIDENT Marcos has appointed local businessman Eduardo Aliño as the new chairman of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.

Aliño replaced Jonathan Tan, a former mayor of Pandan town in Antiquewho stepped down as SBMA head, a position he held for the past eight months.

Tan was appointed as undersecretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

Tan described his stint at SBMA as "short but valuable."

"I was given the chance to serve the agency. I'll bring with me all the happy memories I had with you," Tan said in a message to SBMA employees.

Aliño was chairman and president of the S.T.A.R. Group of Companies, amajor player in integrated supply chain services and port operations before he was tapped by President Marcos for the Subic job.

This bodes well for Subic, a former base for the United States Navy whose core business asset is its seaport, local businessmen said.

The Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC) earlier pointed out that there is a need for the SBMA to “focus more on streamlining its operations (and) promoting growth, increased economic activity, and trade.” Charles Dantes

Mixed movement in fuel prices seen next week

By Alena Mae S. Flores DOMESTIC prices of petroleum products are forecast to have a mixed movement next week, with diesel and kerosene prices going up while gasoline prices expected to stay stead or have a small rollback.

Industry sources said that based on the four-day trading of Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS), the benchmark for oil importers, diesel and kerosene products are seen to rise by P0.40 to P0.60 per liter and P0.60 to P0.70 per liter, respectively.

“Reasons for increase is on concerns about escalating conflict in the middle east with more attacks on Gaza and on the shipping issue in Red Sea,” Department of Energy director for the oil industry management bureau Rodela Romero said.

“On the other hand, factors such as increase in the inventory of crude and products by the US, oil demand worries by big economies and the rising OPEC supply make oil prices steadied for the last week,” she said.

On Jan. 9, local oil companies implemented an increase in the price of gasoline, diesel, and kerosene by P 0.10 per liter.

QC...

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“This Office finds the evidence insufficient to indict respondent for grave threats inasmuch as the requisite elements for the crime appear to have been not sufficiently and concretely established contrary to what the complainant wanted to impress upon this Office,” read the resolution dated Jan. 9.

The prosecutor said Castro's complaint failed to establish that Duterte intended his alleged threats to be taken seriously during his “Gikan Sa Masa, Para Sa Masa” program at SMNI last year.

Castro filed the grave threat complaint after Duterte gave on-air advice to his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, about how she could use intelligence and confidential funds allocated to her office.

“Your first target with your intelligence fund is you, you France. Tell her, ‘It is you communists who I want to kill,’” Duterte said in the program that was reshared thousands of times on Facebook. It was later deleted from SMNI’s Facebook page.

The prosecutor said Duterte "would have just directly and immediately pronounced the threats" if he wanted to intimidate Castro instead of resorting to "sarcastic" jokes and banter.

"Besides, the Office finds it quite unusual, if not ridiculous for a person to make public pronouncement of death threats...especially so considering that such individual, like [the] respondent, is already in an advanced age and not any more immune from criminal prosecution," the resolution added.

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PNP: 108 cops sacked due to drug offenses THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday disclosed that 108 policemen have been dismissed from the service due to drug-related offenses under the Marcos administration.

The PNP records showed that from July 1, 2022 to Jan. 3, 2024, a total of 289 cops were allogedly involved in illegal drugs. Ten of them were demoted, 60 suspended, and three were reprimanded.

Some privileges of 108 dismissed law enforcers were withheld, the PNP said.

In a video message released Tuesday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said 177 police officers have been charged with drug-related offenses in Metro Manila alone under his administration.

“Alam naman natin na kung minsan, nadadala ang ating mga opisyal at siyempre hindi natin maaaring pabayaan ‘yan. Kaya’t ang nangyari, 177 police officers were charged with drug-related offenses, including the planting of evidence, unlawful arrest and excessive violence dito pa lang sa NCR (We know that sometimes our officers get involved and we will not ignore that.

So, 177 police officers were charged with drug-related offenses, including planting of evidence, unlawful arrest, and excessive violence just here in NCR),” the President said.

DILG to sustain momentum of anti-drugs drive

PBBM VISITS DSWD.

Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian explains some graphics on the command center board at the main office of the DSWD which marked its 73rd anniversary on Friday. The President urged the agency to continue its speedy and sincere services to the people.

Revoli Cortez

SC acquits 2 drug suspects over broken chain of custody

By Rey E. Requejo

T

HE Supreme Court (SC) has exonerated two respondents in a drug case due to “broken chain” in the custody of evidence.

In a 22-page decision penned by Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, the SC Second Division reversed and set aside the ruling of the Court of Appeals, thereby acquitting respondents Francis Valencia and Ryan Antipuesto of the charge of illegal sale of dangerous drugs.

The SC ordered their release Valencia and Antipuesto unless they were being held for some other legal grounds.

“Receipts showing the chain of custody cannot be altered or modified while the specimen is in transit to the next custodian. Even a minimal change in the marking stated in these documents

By Vince Lopez

is fatal to the identity and integrity of corpus delicti,” the SC ruling stated.

The case steamed from a 2016 buy-bust operation against Valencia and Antipuesto who were suspected of selling or delivering heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing shabu.

Based on the testimonies of police officers involved in the raid, they received reports that Antipuesto was engaged in the illegal drug trade, prompting them to conduct a buy-bust operation where Valencia brought out a plastic sachet containing shabu.

Valencia was arrested while An-

DOLLING UP THE SANTO NINO ICONS. A

INTERIOR and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. says sustaining the momentum of their flagship anti-drugs campaign is among the agency’s priority thrusts for this year.

Abalos also cited the on-going modernization and capacity-building initiatives of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and enhancing programs of the local government units as among the major driving forces of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

The secretary made these observations during the traditional New Year’s courtesy call on him by DILG officials and personnel of the by issued the directives on Wednesday as he met with officials and personnel, including executives of regional offices and attached agencies.

In his State of the Department Address (SODA), Abalos highlighted the DILG’s accomplishments over the past year in the realm of peace and order, public safety, and local governance which he said were in support of the Marcos administration’s pursuit of a safer, more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous Bagong Pilipinas.

store owner applies finishing touches to Santo Nino images at her shop in Wagas, Tondo, Manila in preparation for the Feast of the Santo Niño on the third Sunday of January.

Norman Cruz

PH, Germany strengthen cooperation to address climate change GERMANY has expressed willingness to help the Philippines in tapping the Loss and Damage Fund that aims to address the impact of climate change.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said it has strengthened cooperation with the Federal Republic

of Germany on law enforcement and anti-piracy training, as well as personto-person exchange.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock made the statement during her courtesy call on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday.

According to Baerbock, the Philippines and Germany could strengthen ties to address climate change. ‘’This is also something which we believe can be a next step in our cooperation on the climate issue, even mentioning the loss and damage fund. This

is really dear to my heart because I was doing a lot of policy beforehand. We said we have to do something about loss and damage,” Baerbock said.

The German official cited the interest of large German companies in investing in the Philippines’ renewable energy sector.

tipuesto managed to escape.

After the arrest, Dumaguete City police officer Cristanto Panggoy marked the plastic sachet with “FLV/ RA-BB-01-16-16” and then placed it inside a brown envelope, which he kept in his custody.

Panggoy also prepared the inventory of the evidence at the Dumaguete police station.

Panggoy later returned the sachet to the envelope, which he sealed and signed. He kept sole custody of the envelope until he brought it to the Negros Oriental Provincial Crime Laboratory.

Transformation of DND, AFP will go on—Teodoro DEFENSE Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. on Friday said transformation of the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will be sustain throughout 2024.

Teodoro issued the statement as he led the traditional joint New Year’s Call of the DND) and the AFP in Camp Aguinaldo, marking the start of the working year.

In his message, Teodoro said that transforming the whole defense department, with its civilian bureaus and the AFP, will carry on in the new year.

“We thank the whole defense family for the cooperation that they have shown last year in the midst of our attempts to transform our organization into a new defense organization with new skills, new paradigms, and new capabilities,” the Defense chief said.

“We shall continue that effort this year and we hope that we have the same unconditional cooperation from each and every one of you,” he added.

“I am really gratified because we have the unconditional support of our commander-in-chief, his excellency President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.,” Teodoro said as he enjoined members of the defense establishment to stay united. Vince Lopez

Cooperative agency gets additional P20m in GAA

By Macon Ramos-Araneta SENATOR Christopher Go has pushed for key amendments in the national budget during last year’s Senate deliberations, with particular focus on the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) to strengthen the country’s cooperative sector .

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

signed the P5.768-trillion 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) on December 20, 2023.

The CDA was granted an additional P20 million through Go’s efforts, marking a substantial increase in support for this crucial sector. The funding is earmarked for the Human Capital Development Program for

Cooperatives, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of qualified cooperatives.

Go, expressing his views on this development, said, “The heart of a strong nation lies in its communities.

By empowering our cooperatives, we’re not just supporting small businesses; we’re strengthening the backbone of our local economies.”

Probers eye some suspects in Unchuan’s death MURDER-KIDNAP SUSPECT IN CUSTODY. A Chinese national identified as Yu Yang is taken by National Bureau of Investigation agents to the Department of Justice for inquest on his alleged complicity in the kidnapping and death of certain Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators employees. Norman Cruz

THE police are eyeing a number of “persons of interest” in the death of Sinulog Idol judge Joel Jude “Jay” Unchuan.

Unchuan was found lifeless with his hands tied in Barangay Inayagan, Naga City on December 30.

His black SUV was recovered a few days later, parked by the highway in

Barangay Yati, Liloan town.

Lt. Col. Gerard Ace Pelare, spokesperson of Central Visayas police, said the probers have found some pieces of evidence in the vehicle, but he refused to elaborate.

“We have personalities identified, but as of now we cannot name the identities. But we assure the public that in

the days to come, we will be able to have them,” Pelare said.

He added that based on the samples obtained, the perpetrator was apparently a male. Possible motives being eyed for the crime include personal grudge, robbery “or a mixture of these motives,” he said.

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Marcos vows more quality houses

By Charles Dantes

T

HE government is committed to building more “safe, quality, and comfortable” housing units in the country, President Marcos said Friday.

The President led the turnover of 360 housing units to displaced Caviteños affected by the cleanup project in Manila Bay. “This is aimed at providing relief to

Cavite residents affected by the Supreme Court’s Writ of Continuing Mandamus for the cleanup of Manila Bay and the relocation of families residing along its shores,” President Marcos said

during his address.

“As an immediate response, we expedited their relocation to new homes that are secure, high-quality, comfortable, and feature well-organized communities,” he added.

President Marcos emphasized that the Ciudad Kaunlaran Project is a collaborative initiative involving the National Housing Authority (NHA), the local government of Bacoor, and various government agencies and private sectors.

The target completion date for the re-

location or turnover of all housing units under Phase I is set before March, with two additional buildings planned for the second phase, accommodating up to 120 families.

The second phase of the project is projected to conclude by the first quarter of 2025.

“I encourage our beneficiaries to strengthen their collaboration with the government to maintain order and prosperity in the communities we are building,” President Marcos said.

HOUSES FOR CAVITENOS.

President Marcos (second from left) leads the setting of the time capsule for Phase 2 of the Ciudad Kaunlaran Project in Bacoor City, where more than 600 Caviteños affected by the rehabilitation of Manila Bay will get homes. Joining him are (from left) Housing Secretary Jerry Acuzar, National Housing Authority General Manager Joeben Tai, and Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. PCO Photo

Stratbase sets cybersecurity gab next week TOP government officials, cyber experts, and stakeholders are coming together for the first major cybersecurity event of 2024 organized by international think tank the Stratbase Institute.

The two-day conference, entitled, “Fortifying Cyber Cooperation Towards Digital Security”, will be held from Jan. 16-17 in Makati City, in partnership with the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines.

Among the attendees are Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman, Head of Canadian Centre for Cyber Security Sami Khoury, Information and Communications Technology Undersecretary Jeffrey Ian Dy, Justice Undersecretary Geronimo Sy, Commission on Elections Commissioner Nelson Celis, and key officials from the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, National Security Council, Department of Energy, National Privacy Commission, PLDT Group and Smart Communications, Globe Telecom, and Fintech Philippines Association.

Also attending are Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Jesus “Gary” Domingo, Makati Mayor Mar-Len Abigail Binay, Microsoft Philippines Chief Executive Officer Peter Maquera, and key officials and experts from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, National Bureau of Investigation, Orbis Operations, Australia National University, National University of Singapore, and leading innovators in cybersecurity technologies.

DA cluster talks ERC pushing for use of EPIRA penalties as refunds Canada budgets ready to map out P627m in ODA El Nino rice plan to PH this year

By Alena Mae S. Flores and Macon Ramos-Araneta

By Othel Campos THE Department of Agriculture (DA) has started a series of cluster meetings for the Masagana Rice Industry Development Program to map out and fine-tune intervention strategies against an expected prolonged dry spell caused by the El Nino phenomenon on rice production.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. authorized the meetings under Special Order 1516, gathering groups in the main regions of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao to find ways to optimize productivity for 2023-2024 dry season.

The dry season for rice production runs from December to May, when rice fields need more water supplied by irrigation systems.

The DA noted that water management is of utmost importance during dry spells since it takes about 5 liters of water to produce a kilo of rice.

Laurel said the clusters will formulate plans for the deployment of interventions like seeds, fertilizer discount vouchers, and soil amelioration and bio-control agents during the dry season.

The DA is already implementing the agri-input assistance and scaling of rice technologies.

It has already mandated the adoption of alternative wet and dry technology to rice cultivation that will drastically reduce the amount of water needed to produce a kilo of rice to one liter per kilo from the current five liters.

THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is pushing for an amendment of the Republic Act No. 9136 or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) of 2001 to redirect penalties and use it as refunds to Filipino consumers inconvenienced by power outages.

ERC chairperson and chief executive

Monalisa Dimalanta raised this proposal during the second congressional inquiry into the power outage that hit Panay from Jan. 2 to 5 at the House of Representatives on Thursday.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian also wants stiffer penalties imposed against industry players found guilty of mismanaging power-related issues that result in economic losses.

“I propose that, as part of our leg-

islative output, we peg the penalty commensurate with the economic losses experienced by affected areas due to negligence and incompetence,” Gatchalian said.

Dimalanta said in a statement: “In fact, one of the recommendations that we made for the EPIRA amendment is to allow ERC the authority to order the application of penalties for return, either in the form of refund or discounts,

PREPPING FOR SINULOG.

Devotees of the Child Jesus use multi-colored umbrellas while attending Mass at the Basilica del Santo Nino in Cebu City on Friday. The Sinulog festival, which honors the Child Jesus and is one of the country’s biggest feast days, is set for Sunday, Jan. 21.

Alan Tangcawan

CANADA is augmenting its official development assistance (ODA) to the Philippines as it fully implements its IndoPacific Strategy, its visiting development minister said Thursday night.

During his official visit to the Philippines, Canada’s Minister of International Development Ahmed Hussen announced that Ottawa has earmarked 15 million Canadian dollars, or approximately P627 million in new investments to improve climate adaptation and expand access to health services in the Philippines.

Hussen said the approved funding is expected to “get underway in 2024.”

Of the total, Canada will provide 8 million Canadian dollars over five years in grant financing to build the resilience of vulnerable communities by supporting nature-based solutions, such as reforestation and coastal wetlands restoration for climate adaptation.

The project targets six regions across the country representing key biodiversity or protected areas.

AFP chief leads signing of peace covenant with former MILF rebels ARMED Forces of the Philippines Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. joined other stakeholders in reciting a peace covenant with former Moro rebels on Thursday afternoon, reaffirming their seriousness in supporting the Bangsamoro peace process.

“It is the soldier, more than anyone else, who wants lasting peace and

(our participation in this activity) is a manifestation of our commitment towards attaining a lasting peace. We are here to show our brothers in the Moro Islamic Liberation Front that we are serious when it comes to the peace process,” he said in a statement released by the AFP. Brawner graced the “Recommitment

BARMM local gov’t support program helps construct crucial infrastructure

By Nash B. Maulana THE Ministry of Interior and Local Government has established its role in developing governance from the village level to the municipal and provincial local government units of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Through its Support to Local Governance Functional Administrative (LoGFA) Program, the MILG-BARMM has built a total of 323 barangay halls across the Bangsamoro region.

They include 24 village halls in Cotabato

City, 56 in Maguindanao del Norte (MDN), 31 in Maguindanao del Sur, 93 in Lanao del Sur and Marawi City, 62 in the Special Geographic Area (SGA), 15 in Basilan, 27 in Sulu, and 15 in Tawi-Tawi.

Sixty-six of these barangay halls have been completed, with the remaining 257 still being constructed.

Based on the sum of the estimated average population per unit area, a total of 2.4 million BARMM constituents benefited from the MILG’s infrastructure projects, with 9,683 general labor jobs generated.

Ceremony towards a Vibrant Bangsamoro” ceremony that was organized by the Principles for Peace Foundation.

The event also gathered ranking officials of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao officials, and representatives of

various sectors.

OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., who was present at the ceremony, accepted the “pledge of commitment or peace covenant” signed by various stakeholders on behalf of President Marcos and Special Assistant to the President Antonio Ernesto Lagdameo Jr. Vince Lopez

CATCH-UP DAY STARTS.

Pupils from Aurora Quezon Elementary School in San Andres, Malate Manila read books during the kick-off program of Department of Education’s Catch-up Friday.

The DepEd reading event that seeks to boost the basic education curriculum will last until Jan. 26.

Danny Pata

B1

OPINION

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13, 2024

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

Citizen Barok

EDITORIAL

Louis ‘Barok’ Biraogo

Herbosa’s healthcare revolution IN THE realm of healthcare, 2023 proved to be a transformative year for the Philippines, with the Department of Health spearheading initiatives that significantly enhanced the accessibility and quality of healthcare services for Filipinos nationwide.

Under the visionary leadership of DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa, the agency embarked on an ambitious journey to establish cutting-edge healthcare facilities, particularly in underserved provinces.

The Catheterization Laboratory (CathLab) at the Jose B. Lingad Memorial General Hospital in San Fernando City, Pampanga, stands as a testament to this commitment.

—“—

The plan to establish ambulatory primary care centers across the nation is a groundbreaking measure

Completed in remarkable 120 days through the Health Facilities Enhancement Program, it now serves Central Luzon residents with state-of-the-art cardiac and noncardiac procedures.

Herbosa’s strategic collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies and private entities like the Bloomberry Cultural Foundation, Inc., has been instrumental in constructing the Clark Multi Specialty Medical Center.

This upcoming facility, set to house specialized departments for heart, kidney, cancer, and pediatrics, showcases a

forward-thinking approach to healthcare infrastructure.

A crucial aspect of the DOH’s mission is to bridge the healthcare gap in remote areas.

The “Libreng Laboratoryo, Konsulta, at Gamot Para sa Lahat” (Lab for All) caravan, launched in Laguna province, has been a commendable initiative aimed at providing free consultation, laboratory services, and medicines to the marginalized population.

Secretary Herbosa’s commitment to the Universal Health Care (UHC) law is also evident in the establishment of a Coordinating Council.

Approved by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., this council will oversee the implementation of UHC at both national and local government levels.

The comprehensive approach involves monitoring fund utilization, income from PhilHealth, and improving overall health systems.

Looking ahead to 2024, Herbosa envisions a modernized DOH that addresses healthcare inequities. The plan to establish ambulatory primary care centers across the nation is a groundbreaking measure.

These centers, equipped with laboratories, medicines, and imaging facilities, aim to alleviate the burden on large hospitals, ensuring that healthcare is accessible to all.

The DOH’s 2024 priorities, ranging from increased immunization coverage to a focus on reducing maternal mortality and non-communicable diseases, reflect a holistic approach to public health.

Secretary Ted Herbosa’s leadership has ushered in a new era for the Department of Health, marked by innovation, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of all Filipinos.

As we move forward, it is imperative for the government and society to continue supporting these initiatives, ensuring that the vision of accessible and high-quality healthcare for every Filipino becomes a sustainable reality.

EVERYMAN

The mighty editorial

By Adelle Chua IN AN age when almost everybody has an opinion and can very easily express these in every manner and platform possible, does the mighty editorial still have a place?

The editorial, of course, is that piece occupying a prominent place in the opinion section of a newspaper – at least in its printed copy.

It runs without a byline. There is no credit to the writer because it is supposed to be a news organization’s institutional position on the burning issues of the day.

I spent the past year and a half working on an academic paper that looked into the editorials of four broadsheets in the Philippines.

This paper was finally published last month by the PCS Review, the refereed journal of the Philippine Communication Society.

The journal can be accessed via the PCS web site, https://www.philscomsoc.org/ pcs-review-2023.

I narrowed the scope to the 90-day election period in 2022.

I wanted to see what themes the four newspapers deemed most worthy to be written about during a crucial point in Philippine history.

I also looked at how these top issues were framed, and whether such framing was independent of the newspaper that published the editorials.

Lastly, I spoke with some newsroom personalities directly involved in the daily production of editorials.

The study covered 336 editorials published by the Philippine Daily Inquirer, the Philippine Star, the Manila Standard, and the Manila Times published between February 8, 2022 and May 7, 2022.

I found that the top five topics were the election, the economy, foreign affairs and policy, health, and peace and order.

Next, I looked into how each of these themes were framed, guided by a previous study of Dutch scholars Holli Semetko and Patti Valkenburg.

These five frames were attribution of responsibility, morality, conflict, human interest, and the economy.

I found that different themes had different dominant frames.

Editorials on the election, the economy, and health were framed as an attribution of

responsibility – who was responsible for the problem, and for solving that problem.

It might be tempting to conclude otherwise, but in fact the election-themed editorials centered on the conduct of elections in general, instead of pushing for any one candidate in particular.

They reminded the people of the obligation to vote, and to ensure that elections are conducted in an honest and orderly manner.

For foreign affairs and policy-themed editorials, conflict was, quite predictably, the most dominant theme.

This was also the time when Russia first invaded Ukraine. The conflict frame identifies opposing groups or parties in a given situation.

—“—

Are editorials still relevant during these changing times?

Meanwhile, for peace and order editorials – those that dealt with law enforcement issues like the drug war – the human interest frame was strong. This frame provides a human face to the issue being discussed.

Only editorials under the peace and order theme were found to be framed independently of the newspaper of publication.

For the four other dominant themes, the frame used was found to be linked or related, in varying degrees, to the broadsheets that published them.

I interviewed five journalists and newsroom managers who were, or are still, involved in the editorial production process.

They knew their readers: not the majority of Filipinos but policy- and decision-makers in society.

The newspapers employed different processes in producing what is supposed to be a collegial position on the most pressing current events.

Some processes were more linear than the others, others were more consultative,

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Hope remains high

W

E JOIN the family of Mary Jane Veloso, in jail on Indonesia’s death row over drug related charges since April 2010, in hoping for a positive result as regards President Joko Widodo’s assurance Jakarta will “reexamine” her case.

Veloso was arrested at Yogyakarta’s Adisucipto International Airport on April 25, 2010 when authorities found in her suitcase 2.6 kg of heroin in her suitcase and was sentenced to death six months later.

She won a last-minute reprieve in 2015, when seven foreigners and an Indonesian were executed, after Veloso’s recruiter turned herself in to the Philippines police on allegations of people trafficking and the government in Manila under then President Benigno Aquino III asked for Veloso’s case to be reviewed.

We agree with her supporters the 39-year-old Nueva Ecija mother of two sons is a victim of human trafficking, whose case mirrors the plight of millions of Filipino overseas workers who often face injustice in their adopted country.

Eagle Eyes Tony La Viña

President Widodo was in Manila this week for a three-day official visit and assured President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. the Indonesian government will “reexamine” her case.

—“—

Hope remains high the reassurance committed

by President Widodo to President Marcos will result in a positive result

Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil said Widodo made the commitment during his meeting with President Marcos at Malacañan Palace on Wednesday, the eve of his departure for home.

The 66-year-old Marcos, four years Widodo’s senior, earlier in May last year asked the latter on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit in Indonesia to reexamine Veloso’s case “as a favor to the Philip-

Charter change redux

HERE are our politicians again – attempting to change the Constitution.

There were failed attempts during the Ramos, Macapagal-Arroyo, and Duterte administrations to change the 1987 Constitution.

Because the Senate was uncooperative, the first two attempts tried the initiative route provided in Article XVII Constitution.

Ironically, those two attempts resulted in two Supreme Court decisions that made the requirements for petition and initiative more stringent.

In any case, not even one of these attempts reached the referendum stage.

I have written many times that I am for Constitutional change, but it must be done properly.

Changing the Constitution without full debate and deliberation, uninformed by study and analysis of the impacts of our governance options, and without following the right procedures will be disastrous for the country.

In governance and policy making, as it is in medicine, the first rule must be to do no harm.

In 2012, I co-authored a book titled “The 1987 Constitution — To Change or Not to Change.”

This was written with Joy Aceron, Edgar Bonto and Benedict Nisperos, edited by Dr. Dennis Gonzalez, and published by Anvil Publishing.

Based on studies we conducted at the Ateneo School of Government, it was designed as a guidebook on how to change the Constitution.

Among others, we explained why past and recent Charter change attempts have ended the way they did – when outcomes were successful, when constitutional change was done illegitimately and only caused harm, and when it failed.

There are three lessons from the Philippine historical experience on Constitutional change.

First, it must be done transparently, in a

participatory and inclusive manner.

This is exemplified through the 1935 Constitution, adopted through an elected Constitutional convention, and the 1987 Constitution, drafted by Commissioners that had representatives from sectors and the opposition who went all over the country for consultations.

Second, the President must not be too involved and allow the Constitutional convention or constituent assembly to do its job without interference.

while others were more cognizant of or upfront about the realities in the newspaper industry.

Newspapers, after all, do have owners with political or business interests, and these factors have to be taken into consideration without negating the primary purpose of journalism and compromising the truth.

There used to be a time when the editorial was deemed the heart and soul of the newspaper and was placed prominently — a visual cue to the importance and centrality of the piece.

Today’s news websites give little clue to this.

The interviewees agreed that times have changed, and that the might of the editorial is now challenged, first by the environment, and second, because newspapers them-

selves tend to come up with them for the sake of putting out an editorial on a daily basis.

This instead of thoughtfully and carefully crafting a well-researched and compellingly written opinion piece, day after day.

Still, the democratization of the opinion page – which includes editorials and opinion columns – should be a good thing.

The opinion writers’ gallery of elderly, often grumpy, professionally established gentlemen, some heady with their self-importance should become inclusive.

The opinion page should make writers deliberate and purposeful.

What will I write about?

What is my distinct voice?

What value will I add to the conversation?

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

pines.”

The Filipino leader was hoping clemency would be given to Veloso “at the appropriate time,” as he relayed the progress on the case filed against her recruiters in the Philippines, Foreign Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said.

During his meeting with Widodo on Wednesday, President Marcos reported the legal interrogatories required from the Philippine Regional Trial Court on Veloso’s case have been sent to Jakarta for her to answer.

President Marcos said while he respected the prevailing laws in Indonesia as far as illegal drug charges were concerned, the Philippine government was working hard on Veloso’s case.

We see the Philippine government has not given up on Veloso, with authorities saying it is pursuing all legal remedies including asking for her pardon, commutation of sentence, or even extradition to serve her sentence in the Philippines.

According to the National Union of People’s Lawyers, which is raising awareness about Veloso’s case, the drugs were “secretly stashed in a bag given to her by the brother of Tintin’s [Sergio’s] boyfriend in Malaysia without Mary Jane’s knowledge, consent or intention.”

Hope remains high the reassurance committed by President Widodo to President Marcos will result in a positive result.

—“—

A good Constitution must allow for some elbow room to be able to adapt to the changing sociopolitical landscape

The 1973 Constitution was originally drafted by a convention of elected delegates but President Marcos hijacked the process and we ended up with an illegitimate outcome.

Third, the Constitutional procedure ordained by the Constitution must be strictly followed and not manipulated to ensure a pre-ordained result.

The passage of the parity rights amendment that favored US citizens and corporations, adopted via constituent assembly after World War II, was achieved by expelling from the House of Representatives the members of the Democratic Alliance.

That led to civil war in Central Luzon and doomed our country to underdevelopment for the next three decades.

The best mode of changing the Constitution is still through the Constitutional con-

vention route.

It may be costlier but we can afford it and we should spend for it, the constitution being the most important law of the land.

Second, there must be also be no conflict of interest in drafting a new Constitution.

Politicians and political dynasties must not dominate in the process as the result could be contrary to national interest.

Third, and last, if the mode chosen is constituent assembly, the voting must be done separately and not jointly.

Our Congress is bicameral, and unless otherwise explicitly stated in the Constitution, every decision must be taken by each house separately. Like tango, the chacha needs two to dance.

Circumventing the “voting separately” requirement even through a Constitutional amendment by initiative, sidelines the Senate and is a perversion.

As a Constitutional law professor, I believe a Constitution must be rigid enough not to be susceptible to the whims and passions of the times; nor too fickle that it can be dropped like hot potato whenever its provisions run in cross-purposes with the political and economic agenda of the powers-that-be.

At the other end of the spectrum, however, a good Constitution must allow for some elbow room to be able to adapt to the changing socio-political landscape.

It must have a reasonable measure of flexibility to keep abreast with the conditions of a country in constant flux.

Railroading of a new Constitution is counterproductive.

When political fortunes change, as it surely will, the future leaders and the people will quickly revoke such a Charter.

An illegitimate onstitutional process is the recipe of disunity, of instability. Lets avoid that.

Email: Tonylavs@gmail.com Facebook: tlavina@yahoo.com Twitter: tonylavs Website: tonylavina.com Facebook and X: tonylavs Equally important: do I practice the basics of good writing and not make my reader weep?

It should encourage readers to think critically and not simply parrot a popular line of thought.

For these reasons, the editorial as part of the marketplace of opinion should take on a new importance, in an attempt to distinguish itself from other writing, and to remind readers why traditional media should co-exist with — and not be supplanted by – developments in the field.

(Adelle Chua is an assistant professor of journalism at the UP College of Mass Communication. She was opinion editor and columnist for this newspaper for 15 years.)

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

Associate Editor Managing Editor News Editor

Honor Blanco Cabie Opinion Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

B2

WORLD

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13, 2024

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Blinken to meet senior Chinese official on eve of Taiwan vote WASHINGTON, DC – US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet a senior Chinese official in Washington on the eve of Taiwan’s elections, as the United States seeks to discourage Beijing from taking action against Taipei.

Blinken, briefly back in Washington in between his latest Middle East crisis tour and a trip to the World Economic Forum in Davos, will see Liu Jianchao, who heads the international division of the Chinese Communist Party’s Central Committee, the State Department public schedule showed.

Taiwan, a self-ruling democracy claimed by Beijing, heads to the polls on Saturday with Beijing describing the front-runner, Lai Ching-te, as a “severe danger” due to past comments favorable to outright independence.

But Lai has been cautious on the campaign trail and US officials say privately that they do not see Chinese statements and actions as out of the ordinary for a Taiwan election.

The United States, while recognizing only Beijing, provides weapons to Taiwan to ensure its defense, as China has not ruled out force to “reunify.”

The United States has “deep confidence in Taiwan’s democratic process and believe it is for Taiwan voters to decide their next leader free from outside interference,” State Department spokesman Vedant Patel said Thursday.

Meanwhile, China has generated global headlines with warnings of war ahead Manila Standard of Taiwan’s election but, for a domestic audience,TODAY there are no verbal fireworks and few reports on the island’s bustling display of democracy. AFP NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

Notice is hereby given that the following Certificates of Stock: Certificate Number A 000000038098 A 000000046703 A 000000079805 A 000000098833 A 000000119823 A 000000139269 A 000000153024 A 000000165823 A 000000188541 A 000000217146 A 000000242329 A 000000288962 A 000000312898 A 000000339044 A 000000363224 A 000000387655

Number of Shares 500 200 144 126 145 139 156 141 775 1,163 872 654 501 827 1,585 1,982

representing 9,910 shares of stock (the ÒANSCOR SharesÓ) in A. Soriano Corporation (the ÒCorporationÓ) registered to Israel Racelis and/or Florita Racelis as Stockholder No. 0005087600 have been lost and cannot be located despite diligent and earnest efforts.

STERN WARNINGS. Yemeni supporters of the Huthis shout anti-Israel and anti-US slogans during a march in solidarity with the Palestinian people in the Huthicontrolled capital Sanaa on Thursday, amid the ongoing battles between Israel and the militant Hamas group in Gaza. Heavy air strikes pounded rebel-held cities in Yemen early Friday, the Huthi rebels’ official media and AFP correspondents said. The capital Sanaa, Hodeida and Saada were all targeted, the Huthis’ official media said, blaming ‘American aggression with British participation.’ AFP

US, UK strikes pound Yemen rebels, add fears of wider war CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

S

ANAA, Yemen – US and British forces struck rebelheld Yemen early on Friday after weeks of disruptive attacks on Red Sea shipping by the Iranbacked Huthis who say they act in solidarity with Gaza.

The pre-dawn air strikes add to escalating fears of wider conflict in the region, where violence involving Tehran-aligned groups in Yemen as well as Lebanon, Iraq and Syria has surged since the Israel-Hamas was began in early October.

Iran “strongly condemned” the strikes, which the United States, Brit-

ain and eight other allies said aimed to “de-escalate tensions”.

China said it was “concerned about the escalation of tensions in the Red Sea”, and news of the strikes sent oil prices up more than two percent.

The Huthis have carried out a growing number of attacks on what they deem to be Israeli-linked shipping in the key international trade route since Oct 7, when Hamas’s unprecedented attack on Israel sparked the war which is still raging in the besieged Gaza Strip.

The rebels have controlled a major part of Yemen since a civil war erupted there in 2014 and are part of a regional Iran-backed “axis of resistance” against Israel and its allies.

Friday’s strikes targeted an airbase, airports and a military camp, the Huthis’ Al-Masirah TV station said, with AFP correspondents and witnesses reporting they could hear heavy

strikes in Hodeida and Sanaa.

“Our country was subjected to a massive aggressive attack by American and British ships, submarines and warplanes,” said Hussein al-Ezzi, the rebels’ deputy foreign minister.

“America and Britain will have to prepare to pay a heavy price and bear all the dire consequences of this blatant aggression,” he added according to official Huthi media.

US President Joe Biden called the strikes a “defensive action” after the Red Sea attacks and said he “will not hesitate” to order further military action if needed.

With fighter jets and Tomahawk missiles, 60 targets at 16 Huthi locations were hit by more than 100 precisionguided munitions, US Central Command said in a statement.

Unverified images on social media, some of them purportedly of Al-Daila-

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Trump berates NY fraud trial judge at close of arguments

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REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 78 – QUEZON CITY FRANCISCO EMER TRIA, Petitioner, - versus -

CIVIL CASE NO. R-QZN-23-08846-CV For: Declaration of Nullity of Marriage Under 55 of Republic Act No. 386

STELLA MANINANG, Respondent. x---------------------------------------------x SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION TO: STELLA MANINANG No. 77 K-3rd Street, Kamuning, Quezon City GREETINGS: You are hereby required, within thirty (30) days after service of this Summons upon you, copy of which are published for two (2) consecutive Saturdays in a newspaper of general circulation throughout the Philippines, and to file with this Court and serve on the petitioner your Answer to the instant Petition above captioned and filed with this Court sitting at Room 203 2nd Floor Hall of Justice Annex Building, QC Hall Compound, Diliman, Quezon City. Subject petition is for the Declaration of Nullity of Marriage you contracted with the Petitioner on OCTOBER 10, 1983 at the YMCA BUILDING, ARROCEROS, ERMITA, MANILA before REV. FLORENCIO S. DE LEON. The petitioner seeks the declaration of the Nullity of Your Marriage from the beginning or ab initio for “lack of marriage ceremony, an indispensable requirement for a valid marriage under Article 55 of Republic Act No. 386”; and that said marriage be declared as an absolute nullity; and that corresponding Decree be issued accordingly.

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

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

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

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

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

mi airbase north of the rebel-held capital Sanaa, showed explosions lighting up the sky as loud bangs and the roar of planes sounded.

Huthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said at least five people had been killed.

Nasser Kanani, spokesman for Iran’s foreign ministry, said that the Western strikes “will have no result other than fuelling insecurity and instability in the region”, while “diverting the world’s attention” from Gaza.

In a statement, Biden called the strikes a success and said he ordered them “against a number of targets in Yemen used by Huthi rebels to endanger freedom of navigation in one of the world’s most vital waterways.”

Biden called the strikes a “direct response” to the “unprecedented” attacks by the Huthis which included “the use of anti-ship ballistic missiles for the first time in history”. AFP

NEW YORK – Donald Trump ignored warnings from the judge in his New York civil fraud trial Thurasday (Friday in Manila) and turned closing arguments into an election campaign attack, claiming that prosecutors are out to stop his political comeback.

Prosecutors are demanding $370 million from Trump over fraud allegations -- and to bar him from conducting business in the state where he made his name as a celebrity real estate tycoon.

Trump had sought to deliver full closWARNING IGNORED. Former US President Donald Trump departs after speaking to the press after attending the civil fraud trial ing arguments himself, but permission against the Trump Organization in New York State Supreme Court, in New York City on Friday. Trump ignored warnings from the judge was denied when he failed to sign off on in his New York civil fraud trial and turned closing arguments into an election campaign attack, claiming that prosecutors are out to restrictions aimed at stopping him from stop his political comeback. AFP using the courtroom as an electioneering platform.

Judge Arthur Engoron then allowed Trump to make brief additional comments after his lawyer had spoken -RIGA, Latvia – Ukrainian President sian strikes. aircraft weapons, grenades, drones” to again insisting that the Republican presVolodymyr Zelensky called on partners Zelensky said Ukraine was “grateful” Kyiv this year. idential candidate and former president to provide decisive political and military for the already-delivered Patriot air deZelensky’s trip comes as support from respect courtroom rules. support during a visit Thursday to his fence systems, without which it would other Western backers is wavering, with Trump almost immediately launched staunch Baltic allies, as other backers be “impossible to survive” during some decisions on fresh aid packages to Kyiv into a bitter attack on the New York state waver on aid. massive attacks, but asked for more de- stalled in the US and the European Union. attorney general, saying, “They want to CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Zelensky wrapped up his tour of the liveries.

He asked for military as well as po- make sure I never win again. The (atBaltic states in Latvia, after earlier vis“How can you live and sleep peace- litical support to deter Russia, which torney general) hates Trump... and if I iting Lithuania and Estonia, in a bid to fully, if you have dozens of such sys- launched its full-scale invasion almost can’t talk about that it’s a disservice.” counter war fatigue as the bloody con- tems,” he asked during a press confer- two years ago.

Engoron attempted to interrupt Trump flict nears its second anniversary. ence in Latvia’s capital Riga.

“We would like to see a real step from with a warning to wrap up his statement Throughout the trip, the Ukrainian Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics NATO countries to bring Ukraine clos- and Trump responded: “You have your leader pleaded for more air defense sys- announced a new aid package, saying er,” he asked in Riga, adding the allies own agenda, you can’t listen for more tems amid an escalation of deadly Rus- Riga will deliver “artillery shells, anti- “must not show fear.” AFP than one minute. AFP

Zelensky urges support in trip to Baltic states

Israel bombs Gaza as Blinken says no Middle East war escalation US SECRETARY of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday (Friday in Manila) the Israel-Hamas conflict was not “escalating” across the Middle East, while Israel pounded southern Gaza more than three months into the war.

As Blinken wrapped up a whistlestop tour of the region, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) heard ar-

guments in a landmark case accusing Israel of breaching the United Nations Genocide Convention.

South Africa told the top UN court that Israel’s bombing campaign of the besieged Gaza Strip justified a plausible claim of “genocidal acts”, following an urgent appeal to immediately suspend military operations.

In Cairo, Blinken met Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, a key mediator in efforts to end the war sparked by Hamas’s Oct 7 attacks on Israel.

“I don’t think the conflict is escalating” as regional stakeholders do not want that, the top diplomat told reporters before leaving.

Violence involving powerful Leba-

nese group Hezbollah and other Iranbacked armed groups in Iraq, Syria and Yemen has spiked since early October, stoking fears of the conflict spiraling.

Hezbollah, a Hamas ally which has exchanged regular fire with Israel’s forces since the start of the war, said an Israeli strike killed two affiliated medics in southern Lebanon on Thursday. AFP

BUSINESS

B3 SATURDAY, JANUARY 13, 2024

extrastory2000@gmail.com

China exports fell, first time in 7 years B

EIJING—China’s exports fell last year for the first time in seven years, data showed Friday, as tensions with the United States and a stuttering global economic recovery compound Beijing’s struggles to kickstart growth at home.

WATER EDUCATION.

Manila Water expands its specialized tour called ‘SALIN: Lakbayan para sa Guro’ in partnership with the Department of Education-National Capital Region.

Tailor-fit for public school educators, the program aims to reach out to teachers who can then transfer the knowledge to their respective students. The tour commences in Angat Dam, Norzagaray, Bulacan, then proceed to Ipo Dam and moves to La Mesa Dam in Quezon City.

Tesla’s factory in Germany suspends production over Red Sea attacks BERLIN, Germany—Electric car manufacturer Tesla announced it is suspending for two weeks the bulk of production at its factory in Germany, citing a shortage of parts due to shipping delays caused by Huthi rebel attacks in the Red Sea. The suspension was disclosed just hours before the United States and Britain announced early Friday they had carried out air strikes against the Iran-backed rebels over their repeated threats to vessels in the key

waterway.

The Red Sea attacks had led to delays that created a “gap in the supply chains”, resulting in production at the facility southeast of Berlin being suspended “with the exception of a few sectors”, Tesla said in a statement sent to AFP. “From February 12, production will resume in full,” it added.

Since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, the Iran-backed Huthis have stepped up attacks on commercial and

military vessels in the Red Sea in what they say is solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

As a result, some shipping firms have opted to avoid the waterway, the gateway to the Suez Canal, forcing them to take a much longer route between Europe and Asia.

Early Friday morning, heavy US and British air strikes targeted an airbase, airports and a military camp in rebelheld Yemen, the Huthi’s Al-Masirah TV station said, with AFP correspondents

and witnesses also reporting hearing bombardments.

US President Joe Biden called the strikes a “defensive action” after the Red Sea attacks and said he “will not hesitate” to order further military action if needed.

The Tesla factory outside Berlin opened in 2022 and employs around 11,500 people, turning out about 250,000 vehicles a year, according to the company, which plans to expand the facility to double production. AFP

Stocks climb despite higher US inflation rate

By Jenniffer B. Austria THE Philippine stock market continued its rally Friday even as Wall Street ended mixed on higher-thanexpected US inflation rate.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index rose 29.45 points, or 0.44 percent, to close at 6,643.18, while the broader all-shares index went up by 10.85 points, or 0.31 percent, to finish at 3,506.61.

Regina Capital Development Corp of head of sales Luis Limlingan said the market still managed to close higher even as US December inflation rate came in “hotter-than-expected”.

“Higher rents and food boosted the cost of goods to 3.4 percent, prompting investors to think that the Federal Reserve’s drive to slow inflation rate to 2 percent target may take longer than what was initially projected,” Limlingan said.

Foreign investors were net buyers by P360 million Meanwhile, oil prices surged Friday after US and UK forces launched strikes against Iran-backed Huthi rebels in Yemen following attacks on ships in the Red Sea, fueling worries about a wider conflict in the crude-rich region.

The move weighed on sentiment among investors, though stocks were mixed after data showing US inflation rose more than expected last month further dented hopes for an early interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve.

The offensive against rebel positions in Yemen -- which included fighter jets and Tomahawk missiles -- fanned already high tensions in the Middle East as Israel presses on with a war in Gaza in response to a Hamas attack on the country in October.

The Huthis have carried out a growing number of strikes on vessels in the Red Sea, a key international shipping route, since the Gaza war erupted, hitting trade flows at a time when supply strains are putting upward pressure on inflation globally.

Washington and London’s decision followed a Huthi bombardment this week that was said to be their heaviest to date, having carried out missions on an almost daily basis since the start of the Israel-Hamas war.

SPI Asset Management’s Stephen Innes warned of the threat of an escalation owing to the Huthis’ links to Tehran.

“While this event may not constitute the ‘big one’ -- a direct threat to Iranian leaders or assets -- circumstances could evolve if the current escalation jeopardizes Iran’s credibility or an increasingly confident Israel expands its targets,” he said in a commentary. With AFP

LABOR RELATIONS. Holcim Philippines is recognized by the government for its positive union relations that are driving business performance and creating a positive impact. The company’s plant in Bacnotan, La Union is among the 17 finalists in the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB) Search for Outstanding Labor-Management Cooperation and Grievance Machinery for Industrial Peace in November which was attended by plant and union leaders.

Overseas shipments have traditionally been key to feeding GDP expansion over the past four decades and the figures came as a separate report showed the country in danger of slipping into a deflationary spiral that could further complicate officials’ plans to stimulate activity.

The reading also highlighted a geopolitical pivot as annual trade with the United States fell for the first time in four years, while commerce with Russia hit a record high despite international pressure to isolate Moscow over its war in Ukraine.

And customs officials warned that there would be more hurdles to come over the next 12 months.

“The complexity, severity and uncertainty of the external environment are on the rise, and we need to overcome the difficulties and make more efforts to further promote the growth of foreign trade,” vice minister of the General Administration of Customs Wang Lingjun said.

Exports rose in November for the first time since April, and while December also saw an on-year increase of 2.3 percent, the data compare with the low base of 2022 when the impact of zero-Covid policies were being felt the most.

Overall, exports fell 4.6 percent in 2023, the first annual drop since 2016.

Deflation threat The report also showed imports dropped 5.5 percent last year.

The weak demand for goods from overseas was reflected in data showing the consumer price index (CPI) fell 0.3 percent last month, the third straight monthly drop and the longest streak since October 2009, according to Bloomberg News.

For the whole year inflation came in at an average of 0.2 percent, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) figures showed.

China slipped into deflation last July for the first time since 2021 and following a brief rebound the following month, prices have been in decline since September.

“Ongoing low core CPI inflation likely reflects dampened domestic demand due to ongoing property downturn and stressed labor market,” Goldman Sachs analysts wrote in a note.

Beijing has unveiled a number of targeted stimulus measures aimed at supporting key sectors, particularly the troubled property industry. AFP

Microsoft, driven by AI, briefly overtakes Apple as world’s most valuable company NEW YORK, United States—Microsoft briefly dethroned its rival Apple to become the world’s most valuable company Thursday, illustrating the contrast between a firm driven by artificial intelligence and another whose iPhone sales are a cause for concern.

Shortly after markets opened on Wall Street, the value of the Windows operating system creator reached a market capitalization of almost $2.9 trillion, slightly above Apple, according to calculations made by AFP.

Microsoft only held the top spot for a few seconds before returning to second place, but this nonetheless underscores how the explosion of interest in AI has reshaped investors’ enthusiasm for the two firms.

The Redmond, Washington-based group has been riding high due in large part to its partnership with OpenAI, the creator of the generative AI interface ChatGPT, in which it controls almost half the capital.

Since the launch of ChatGPT in No-

vember 2022, Microsoft shares have gained almost 75 percent. Over the same period, Apple has had to make do with a more modest—yet still impressive -- 35 percent rise.

Since the arrival of ChatGPT, Microsoft has launched several products enabling businesses and individuals to use the capabilities of generative AI, notably via its Bing search engine and Copilot virtual assistant.

Apple, for its part, has been penalized by market concerns about its ability to

maintain the unbridled growth it has posted for decades.

Earlier this month, an analyst at Barclays lowered their outlook for the stock, citing concerns about a slowdown in iPhone 15 sales particularly in China, which is a major market for Apple.

On Wednesday, analysts at Redburn Atlantic revised their opinion to “neutral” from “buy” on concerns about the prospect of limited growth in the coming years, and mixed results for the current quarter. AFP

Samsung brings SLBS Studio to PH, announces ‘Stray Kids’ product lineup SAMSUNG Electronics Co. Ltd. said Friday it is bringing its SLBS Studio to the Philippines with an exciting collaboration featuring K-pop group Stray Kids.

Stray Kids’ fans or STAYs can express their style with exciting collaboration cases and accessories exclusively made for Galaxy devices, according to Samsung.

SLBS chief executive Alpa Jung and Samsung Electronics Philippines Corp. mobile experience business director Daniel Choi led the opening of the collection at the Samsung Experience store in SM Megamall.

It includes the Galaxy Z Flip5 Star to Galaxy collection, which captures the diverse charms of Stray Kids through specially-designed

flipsuit cases and cards that fit the Galaxy Z Flip5’s Flex Window, an eco-friendly Stray Kids 15W high-speed wireless charger for a sustainable lifestyle and an NFC themed keyring and theme tok.

The collection also covers Samsung wearables with the Galaxy Watch 6 Stray Kids edition, which comes with a stylish strap and leather pouch and the Galaxy Buds2 Pro Star to Galaxy collection, which includes metallic bud covers inspired by Stray Kids’ official compass-shaped light stick and Stray Kids postcard.

SKZOO accessories like flip cases, charms for Galaxy earbuds, keyrings, theme toks, theme cards and more will also be available, the company said.

SHARED GOAL. Executives of Converge ICT Solutions Inc. and DITO Telecommunity Corp. sign on Jan. 11, 2024 a master facilities provisioning agreement for a shared goal to advance their respective missions of empowering Filipinos through world-class connectivity services and excellent digital innovations.

BUSINESS

B4

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13, 2024

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

ROYAL VISITOR.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) senior deputy administrator for business Renato Lee III (right) presents a token to Her Royal Highness Sheikha Jawaher Khalifa Al Khalifa, a member of Bahrain’s royal family, following her visit to Subic Bay Freeport on Jan. 10, 2024.

Joseph Muego

Bank loans, money supply sustain growth

By Darwin G. Amojelar

B

ANK loans and money supply sustained their growth in November 2023 despite the elevated inflation and interest rates last year, data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed Friday.

Outstanding loans to residents, net of RRPs, rose at a slightly slower pace of 7.4 percent in November, compared with 7.5 percent in October, while outstanding loans to non-residents fell 5 percent in November from a 5.1-percent decrease in the previous month.

The BSP said that on a month-onmonth seasonally-adjusted basis, outstanding universal and commercial bank loans, net of RRPs, went up by 0.6 percent.

The Monetary Board, the policymaking body of the BSP, raised the overnight borrowing rate by 100 basis points last year to 6.5 percent to temper inflation that averaged 6.0 percent, above the target range of 2 percent to 4 percent.

Outstanding loans to residents, net of RRPs, rose at a slightly slower pace of 7.4 percent in November, compared with 7.5 percent in October, while outstanding loans to non-residents fell 5 percent in October from a 5.1-percent decrease in October.

Outstanding loans for production activities grew by 5.7 percent in November, after a 5.9-percent increase in the previous month, mainly due to the growth in loans to major sectors including real estate activities (11.9 percent); electricity, gas, steam and air-conditioning supply (12.8 percent); and wholesale and retail trade and repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles (9.6 percent).

Meanwhile, consumer loans to residents went up by 23.6 percent in November, compared with 22.8 percent in October, driven by the faster increase in credit card loans, motor vehicle loans and salary-based general purpose consumption loans.

Domestic liquidity (M3), or the money supply circulating in the financial system, grew by 7 percent year-on-year to about P16.8 trillion in November, a slowdown from the revised-8.1 percent increase registered in October.

The BSP said that on a month-onmonth seasonally-adjusted basis, M3 decreased by about 0.3 percent.

Napocor, Korean firm eye dam safety cooperation

By Alena Mae S. Flores STATE-RUN National Power Corp.

(Napocor) said Friday it is exploring joint projects and technical cooperation with Korea Water Resources Corp. for dam safety operations.

Napocor president and chief executive Fernando Martin Roxas recently welcomed the delegates and officials from K-Water headed by chief executive Yun Seog-dae.

K-Water, the leading water management corporation in South Korea, played a pivotal role in Korea’s economic development and has shown over the years that the improvement of the quality of life and the systematic water Napocor president and chief executive management are linked together.

Fernando Martin Roxas Yun expressed K-Water’s interest in K-Water, the largest emerging renewexpanding technical cooperation with able energy producer in South Korea, Napocor in the dam safety field includshared valuable information on sustaining the utilization of state-of-the-art able future for the Philippines. technology for instrumentation during Napocor also discussed the imporhis visit.

Apo Agua starts supplying water to Davao City APO Agua Infrastructura Inc., a joint venture of Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc. and J.V. Angeles Construction, said Friday it started the supply of safe, reliable and sustainable water to the Davao City Water District (DCWD) in December 2023.

It said the operation of the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP)—the largest of its kind in the country at 300 million liters per day with a 70-kilometer pipeline—addresses the water needs of over one million residents of the city.

It also augments the city’s reliance on groundwater sources, allowing the aquifers to rest and replenish while accommodating increasing water demand.

Davao City Water District announced that it started supplying water to its Calinan, Tugbok, Riverside, Dumoy, Cabantian and Panacan water supply systems. It said the water quality met the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water, the benchmark for water safety in the country.

“We are proud to mark this milestone of our Apo Agua team in partnership with the Davao City Water District to deliver safe, reliable, and sustainable water to the people of Davao. For Aboitiz InfraCapital, this achievement also underscores our commitment to advancing crucial infrastructure, building thriving ecosystems and enhancing the quality of life in the communities we serve while being responsible stewards of the environment,” said Aboitiz InfraCapital president and chief executive Cosette Canilao.

PH-THAILAND RELATIONS.

Thai Ambassador to the Philippines Tull Traisorat pays a courtesy visit to National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan to discuss fostering closer relations between the two nations and attracting more investments from Thailand’s investor community. The Thai Ambassador also congratulated NEDA on the Philippines’ progress in achieving the lowest unemployment rate since 2005 and having the fastest economic growth rate in ASEAN.

tance of the official development assistance (ODA) project for the Angat Dam flood management and the previously requested collaboration and support from K-Water for its implementation.

Meanwhile, Napocor and National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Region IVA sealed a partnership for the implementation of the Irrigation Water Resources Management Plan in the Sta. Cruz River Irrigation System within the Makiling-Banahaw geothermal reservation in Laguna.

Under the partnership, NIA committed to funding the project implementation while Napocor would provide consent and technical assistance covering 2023 to 2026.

The Makiling-Banahaw geothermal reservation, sprawling across 165,960 hectares in Laguna, Batangas and Quezon provinces, falls under Napocor’s management by virtue of Executive Order No. 224 and Presidential Proclamation No. 1111.

Online food, grocery deliveries continue to rise in PH, says Grab

Apo Agua Infrastructura Inc., a subsidiary of Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC), reaches a milestone by commencing the supply of safe, reliable and sustainable water to the Davao City Water District (DCWD) on Dec. 1, 2023, marking a significant leap forward in the country’s water infrastructure development. Shown is Apo Agua’s water treatment plant in Barangay Gumalang along the Bukidnon-Davao Highway which uses a water-energy nexus concept, where the water used to generate power is treated and supplied to DCWD water reservoirs.

FILIPINO consumers are ordering food and groceries online more than before, according to Grab’s Southeast Asia (SEA) Food and Grocery Trends 2023 report.

The report showed that nine of 10 consumers now prefer food and grocery brands with an integrated onlineto-offline (O2O) experience.

This was demonstrated by solutions like self pick-up and dine-in, whose contribution to Grab Philippines’ total order volume went up by 3.6 times from 2021 to 2023.

About 94 percent of Grab users say they read reviews on the app; 60 percent pre-purchased vouchers online; and more than half placed their orders digitally at tables in restaurants.

PHINMA unit signs deal to run Mindanao cement plant

By Jenniffer B. Austria PHILCEMENT Corp., a unit of conglomerate PHINMA Corp., said Friday it is expanding its presence in Mindanao after securing a deal that will enable it operate a cement plant in Zamboanga del Sur province.

PHINMA said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Friday Philcement signed a manufacturing and sale agreement with Petra Cement Inc. (PCI).

Under the deal, Philcement will use PCI’s plant to manufacture, distribute and sell cement products.

The manufacturing facility is lo-

cated in President Manuel A. Roxas, Zamboanga del Norte and includes a cement grinding facility with a capacity of 500,000 metric tons per annum. It is primarily serving the fastgrowing Northern Mindanao market.

“This is aligned with Philcement’s growth strategy and its promise to assure Filipino consumers with reliable, high-quality supply of cement products under its legacy brand Union Cement,” PHINMA said.

Philcement, 60-percent owned by PHINMA, is engaged in the manufacture, importation, processing, distribution and sale of cement products.

It operates a cement processing facility at the Freeport Area of Bataan in Mariveles with an initial annual capacity of 2 million tons.

Philcement is under the construction materials group of PHINMA, which also includes Union Galvasteel Corp. and PHINMA Solar Energy Corp.

The group posted combined revenues of P10.12 billion and combined net income of P361.05 million in the first nine months of 2023, PHINMA also has investments in education, construction materials, property development and hospitality.

Sprout Solutions acquires JustPayroll’s PH operations including all employees SPROUT Solutions, a homegrown software company and HR technology provider, said Friday it acquired the Philippine operations of JustPayroll Inc. The agreement covers all local clients and employees of JustPayroll, a provider of enterprise-grade payroll solutions for the Philippine market including timekeeping, scheduling, salary calculations, payroll outsourcing and government reporting services.

Sprout said the acquisition offers JustPayroll customers an opportunity to be a part of Sprout’s community of over 1,000 client organizations and an ecosystem of AI-powered solutions that automate and improve key HR processes across the em-

ployee lifecycle.

New clients from JustPayroll will also continue to be serviced and guided through the transition period by their existing support contacts, now as employees of Sprout’s team, the two companies said in a joint statement.

“It is with great pleasure that we share our successful acquisition of the Philippine operations of JustPayroll, a top-tier provider of timekeeping and payroll solutions.

Through this acquisition, we’re not just transforming payroll and timekeeping experiences for our valued clients—we’re redefining the essence of seamless workforce management,” said Sprout Solutions cofounder and chief executive Patrick Gentry.

“The everyday food journey of Filipino eaters has significantly evolved in the post-pandemic environment. GrabFood now takes on a new role, catering to the demand for a convenient experience that transcends on-demand deliveries,” said Grab Philippines director for deliveries Greg Camacho.

“We remain dedicated to innovating solutions that enable our merchantpartners to seamlessly interact with our highly active userbase, enabling them to efficiently adapt to ever-changing consumer behavior,” he said.

The report also showed that 89 percent of Filipino Grab users use the app to discover new restaurants and stores they have never tried before.

Darwin G. Amojelar

Globe blocked 220,669 SIMS for spam in 2023 GLOBE Telecom Inc. said Friday as it blocked nearly four times more SIMs in 2023 compared to the previous year as it intensified efforts to fight online fraud.

It said that through the StopSpam portal, it deactivated and blacklisted a total of 220,669 SIMs, majority of which are competitor SIMs. Globe said it deactivated 7,521 of its own SIMs for spam in 2023, less than the 20,226 Globe SIMs in 2022.

It also blocked 213,148 SIMs from other mobile providers, up from 35,333 in 2022. Globe said this reflected its unwavering commitment to protecting its customers and securing its network.

“In today’s digital era, safeguarding our customers is a responsibility we take very seriously. Our aggressive measures against online fraud, especially in deactivating and blacklisting SIMs, are a testament to our commitment to creating a safer digital environment,” said Globe chief information security officer Anton Bonifacio.

“We are constantly evolving our strategies and technologies to stay ahead of threats and ensure the highest level of security and trust in our services,” he said.

Darwin G. Amojelar

C1

SPORTS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13, 2024

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

PBA ready to relaunch 3x3 women’s tournament

Marlon Tapales endeared himself even more to Lanao Del Norte folks as he generously donated to his community hundreds of sacks of rice, which were distributed

by Barangay officials in Maranding, Kapatagan.

Tapales loses 2 world titles, but gains admiration of Lanao folks

By Randy Caluag

M

ARLON Tapales may have suffered a defeat in the boxing ring, losing his two world title belts to Japan’s Naoya Inoue, but the Filipino boxer’s golden heart remained intact.

Despite the setback, Tapales endeared himself even more to Lanao Del Norte folks as he generously donated to his community hundreds of sacks of rice, which were distributed by Barangay officials

in Maranding, Kapatagan.

Expressing its gratitude, the SK Maranding Kapatagan official page posted in the local dialect, “With our whole heart, we thank you for the rice we have received. We will never forget the love and happiness you showed us. Your kindness has given us light and inspiration.”

“From the Barangay officials, SK officials, thank you so much Tapales family for your love and grace.”

Tapales’ official social media account was f looded with posts thanking him and his family for the donation.

“Ganyan ang tunay na champion, champion ka rin ng masa,” commented Boss G. Barber.

Despite his recent loss to Inoue via a 10th-round knockout in Tokyo, Japan, where he surrendered

his WBC and WBO 122-kg. belts, Tapales reportedly received a substantial payday for the unification bout.

Sean Gibbons, Tapales’ promoter from MP Promotions, did not disclose the exact amount, but assured that the boxer and his family’s future is now secure.

Gibbons reportedly mentioned to SPIN columnist Homer Sayson that Tapales “will be able to build or buy a house now and take care of his family.”

In an interview with Sayson, Gibbons expressed his satisfaction, stating, “It’s a thrill for me seeing people’s lives changed. I’m helping myself and helping other people like Manny Pacquiao and my fighters, and it’s very satisfying.”

And Tapales certainly knows how to pay it forward.

Perpetual Help taps Racela as head coach

By Dennis Abrina LONG-TIME Ginebra San Miguel assistant coach Olsen Racela formally signed up as the new head coach of the Altas in a simple ceremony held on Thursday at Perpetual Help in Las Piñas City.

Perpetual Altas team manager Anton Tamayo welcomed Racela.

“The first step I will take is to meet the coaching staff like coach Myk Saguiguit, coach Joph Cleopas before we meet the players.’ Racela said.

“Our target is to start training on Monday as the players are now starting to come back from their vacation,” said Racela. “I’m meeting with Perpetual pride Scottie Thompson, too, of course.

He was there to help as an alumni player and share his past experience as a national team member, there’s a lot to share with the kids.”

The Altas fell a win short of a seat in the Final Four as they ended with only 10 victories and eight losses in NCAA Season 99, won by the San Beda Red Lions.

“It’s a new journey, what lies ahead for the next season for coach Olsen and coach Myk’s combination. More to go for Perpetual. They still have something to look forward to,” said Thompson.

Coach Olsen Racela signed up as the new head coach of the Perpetual Altas for NCAA Season 100, which opes in September. With Racela here are Perpetual Altas team manager Anton Tamayo, NCAA ManComm representative Frank Gusi, Scottie Thompson and coaches Jam Lipae, Joph Cleopas and Myk Saguiguit.

Dennis Abrina

The Altas boast of an almost intact lineup from the last season’s campaign, with players Mark Denver Omega, Nath Sevilla, Christina Pagaran, Cyrus Nitura,

Arthur Roque II, Carlo Ferreras, John ñas and Justin Thompson coming back.

Abis, Rey Barcuma, John Paul Boral, Only court general Jielo Razon and Angelo Gelsano, Richard Movida, Jeari- Jasper Cuevas finished their five playing co Nuñez, Shawn Orgo, Bryle Mascari- years with the Altas.

AFTER seven years of absence, the PBA’s 3x3 tournament for women is up for relaunch.

Six teams, including two Gilas squads are taking part in the Invitational WPBA 3x3 set to kick off on Jan. 22.

The single-round eliminations will be played during game days of the men’s PBA 3x3 Season 3 Third Conference held every Monday and Tuesday.

“We will include the women’s eliminations in the remaining Legs of the PBA 3x3 Season 3 Third Conference,’ said PBA deputy commissioner Eric Castro.

Castro said the top four teams at the end of the 15-game eliminations will advance to the crossover, knockout semifinals. The finalists will dispute the championship via winner-take-all.

Completing the six-team field are Uratex Dream, Angeli’s Resort, Philippine Navy and Philippine Air Force.

The league first launched the women’s half-court game in 2016 during the time of then commissioner Chito Narvasa. It lasted for one season.

At that time all 12 member ball clubs were represented. Blackwater won the Philippine Cup, NLEX emerged champion in the Commissioner’s Cup and GlobalPort topped the Governors’ Cup.

San Beda ace confirms transfer to De La Salle

By Peter Atencio JACOB Cortez is definitely following in his dad’s footsteps.

The 5’10” Cortez is transferring to the La Salle Green Archers and is expected to suit up in the 89th season of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines men’s basketball tournament.

With talks getting finalized, Cortez’s transfer will allow him to do what his father Mike did.

Mike, known as the “Cool Cat,” played in three seasons for the Green Archers from 2000 to 2002 and helped the Franz Pumaren-coached squad win two UAAP championships.

His entry into the Green Archers squad comes a day after he formally left the San Beda University Red Lions.

Cortez left the team just a month after he led San Beda to its first National Collegiate Athletic Association title in five seasons.

“There’s interest from La Salle,” said Cortez in his Facebook page.

The last time he played, Cortez averaged 15.4 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 23 games in the NCAA’s 99th seasons with the Red Lions.

The Green Archers currently have openings at the point guard position, since they will be missing graduating players like Evan Nelle, Mark Nonoy, Francis Escandor and Joaqui Manuel.

Without the four, the coaching staff of the Green Archers still have faith in the remaining veterans, Kevin Quiambao, Michael Philips and Jonel Policarpio in their journey to become the next players who can provide leadership on the floor.

Malixi rallies with 69, snares Aussie Master of the Amateurs crown by 1 RIANNE Malixi, who endured a winless campaign abroad last year, kicked off the new season with a victory in Melbourne, repelling India’s Avani Prashanth in the stretch to secure the Australian Master of the Amateurs Championship crown by one on a closing 69 at the Southern Golf Club in Braeside Friday.

In a nerve-wracking finish, Malixi showed her mettle by breaking off a tie with Japanese Nika Ito, who played in a flight ahead, with a clutch birdie on the par-3 16th then capitalized on the latter’s costly mishap on the 17th to pull ahead.

She then matched Prashanth’s pars in the last two holes to escape with the victory that was more of a triumph of the spirit for a young talent overcoming a season marked with “near-misses.”

This time, the 16-year-old ICTSI-

backed star didn’t fail, spiking her incredible comeback from four strokes down off local ace Lion Higo after 54 holes with a brilliant frontside 32 then flashing unwavering fighting spirit in the clutch to pull through with one of the highlights of her flourishing career.

Wearing the symbolic Green Jacket of victory, Malixi, visibly emotional, tried to hold back tears as she shared the podium with men’s champion Phoenix Campbell.

She thanked her team, including coachcaddie Rick Gibson, her family and supporters for her triumphant campaign in her first stint Down Under.

“I feel very happy. It’s such an honor to be here,” said Malixi. “I’m grateful for the experience.”

Acknowledging her mother Michelle, who celebrated her birthday on Thursday,

Rianne Malixi (third from right) poses with men’s titlist Phoenix Campbell (third from left) during awards rites.

Malixi, who blew a couple of title cracks in various international tournaments last year, including a runner-up finish in the US Girls’ Junior in Colorado, posted six Top 10 finishes in 14 ranking tournaments worldwide in 2023.

With a four-day total of seven-under 285 that included rounds of 70, 72 and 74, Malixi’s victory sets the stage for upcoming challenges, including the Australian Amateur in Victoria next week, and the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific Championship on Feb. 1-4 in Thailand next month.

As the seventh winner of the event, Malixi also earned a spot in the Webex Players Series Hunter Valley, a fullysanctioned Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia and WPGA Tour of Australasia at the Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort in New South Wales on Feb. 15-18.

PROPERTY

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 13, 2024

extrastory2000@gmail.com JOEL D. LACSAMANA, Editor

‘Seaside A Empire’

ZUELA Cove, Ayala Land’s waterside development in Davao City, recently opened the Seaside Promenade and Azuela High Street, a picturesque coastal park that exemplifies Azuela Cove’s bid to establish a sustainable community in the area.

Azuela Cove is set to become Davao region’s key destination by the sea, combining leisure, fluidity, and convenience within a bustling community.

The estate features The Residences at Azuela Cove, The Shops, the Seaside Promenade and soon, Azuela High Street, all connected through a well-designed pedestrian and open space network with views of the Davao Gulf.

Azuela Cove is located in Lanang, Davao City, with easy access to main roads such as R. Castillo Street and JP Laurel Avenue.

Within Azuela High Street (AHS), visitors can explore a variety of new shops and dining

concepts. Four of these establishments, namely ‘Pilgrim,’ ‘Mindanao Butchers,’ ‘Clean Café,’ and ‘Spirale,’ have been recognized in Tatler’s Guide.

At the opening were (from left): Jennylle Tupaz, Ayala Land vice president and estates development head for Central Luzon and Vismin; Hon. Myrna G. Dalodo-Ortiz, chairperson, committee on trade, commerce and industry; Miguel Alcantara Dominguez, director of Alsons Development and Investment Corp.; and Anton Hechanova, vice president and general manager of Alsons.

Ecotourism township in Palawan PROPERTY giant Megaworld recently broke ground for the 10-story Oceanfront Premier Residences, its first-ever residential condominium development within a 462-hectare ecotourism township, dubbed Paragua Coastown, in San Vicente, Palawan.

Just a minute’s walk away from both the beach and the soon-torise Savoy Palawan, Oceanfront Premier Residences will offer 189 ‘smart home’ units and feature views of the Pagdanan Bay and the lush mountains surrounding Paragua Coastown.

Distinctive lifestyle at Red Residences

At the groundbreaking ceremony were Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso, chief operating officer, Megaworld (center); Ar. Astrid Cruz, head of construction management,; Ar. Jennifer Romualdez, head of operations; Javier Romeo Abustan, head of sales and marketing, Megaworld Palawan; and Engr.

Michael Pamplona, construction manager.

SM Development Corporation (SMDC) recently opened Red Residences, along Chino Roces Avenue in Makati.

The development offers a distinctive and eclectic lifestyle with access to a multitude of specialty shops, hip bars and restaurants, and well-designed art galleries and event spaces in the area.

Chino Roces is a bustling community dotted with restaurants and artisanal food finds like The Artisan Cellar Door, art galleries such as Vinyl on Vinyl and Leon Gallery, and notable bars and restaurants including Toyo Eatery and M Dining + Bar M. With landscaped gardens to bring nature indoors and provide an air of freshness, Red Residences is where one can retreat in comfort

at the end of the day in three activity zones.

Recharge at the Fuel Hub, with its fitness station, fitness pool, and playground.

The property also boasts of

productivity-encouraging features.

Connect at the Power Deck with its social halls and collab corner. Then, create at the Focus Zone with its thinking lounge, reflective garden, and jogging trail.

Asian-inspired summer digs in sunny Batangas

MACTAN LANDMARK IN THE OFFING. RLC Residences recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for the fourth tower of AmiSa Private Residences. Located at Punta Engano in Mactan City, Cebu, AmiSa Private Residences is a leisure residential development by RLC Residences that offers relaxing, unobstructed beach views that can be enjoyed from the unit’s balcony. The first three towers of this development are now finished, while the pre-selling fourth tower was introduced in 2022. At the Tower D groundbreaking ceremony were (from left): RLC Residences Cebu sales director Federico Pandagani; vice president for project management engineer Emmanuel Arce; cluster head Melissa Magno; sales director Leoniza Aguitong; Cebu branch head Gretchen Marie Lim Belleza; and Cebu sales directors Eugene Arcena and Dennis Siongco

DMCI Homes recently launched Solmera Coast, a beach park condotel complex rising in San Juan, Batangas ––one of the most sought-after vacation destinations in southern Luzon.

The development is the only tropical Asian-inspired beach park condotel in the region, Expansive open spaces are available in the 7.5-hectare beach park for guests looking to relax and unwind, while event spaces are available for big gatherings.

The property spans Barangays Subukin and Calubcub II in San Juan, a first-class municipality that is also the most popular spot among travelers visiting Batangas.

Solmera Coast offers five swimming pools, a game area, a

gym, two restaurants, and a convention cuisine. center. Those looking for some quiet Unit cuts range from 34 to 91.5 time can enjoy heritage tours around square meters for studio, one-bedroom, Batangas and have a taste of the local and two-bedroom units.

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AGRICULTURE

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13, 2024

agriculture.manilastandard@gmail.com PATRICIA TACULAO-DELIGERO, Editor Pineapple growers are now reaping their first fruits from the QRF intervention

Value-adding can provide a steady source of income and employment opportunities, which the pineapple growers utilized to create pineapple wine

Pineapple farmers rebuild life after Odette

I

N THE sloping terrain in the Municipality of Basilisa in the Dinagat Islands, a two-hectare pineapple production was wiped out, logging approximately ₱87,600 in losses. On Dec. 16, 2021, Typhoon Odette, internationally named Rai, struck the island province of Dinagat and brought extensive damages and losses to infrastructure, socio-economic sectors, and agriculture.

According to Fortunato M. Secusana, Chairperson of the Pineapple Growers Farmers Association, it was the strongest typhoon they experienced, battered by heavy rains and torrential winds.

Despite the destruction and complete loss of assets, the association members remained determined and resilient as they moved on and looked forward to rebuilding their lives.

As they rebuild and recover, in 2022, the Quick Response Fund (QRF) of the Department of Agriculture (DA)-Caraga High-Value Crops Development Program distributed pineapple suckers worth P525,000 for them to plant again.

“We are grateful to the DA, from the local to the regional offices, for the assistance that they have provided to us. Thank you for helping us start over in venturing into the business that we believe adds value to our product,” said Secusana.

After a year, the Pineapple Growers Farmers Association is reaping its first fruits from the QRF intervention and can start making pineapple wine again.

In 2019, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) trained

Members of the Pineapple Growers Farmers Association posing with some of their freshly harvested pineapples

the association to start pineapple wine processing. Value-adding provides a steady source of income and employment opportunities, especially in their community where jobs are scarce. Each bottle sells for P300.

Pineapple fruit costs P30 per kilogram; processed, a bottle of wine equals two kilograms of pineapple. A pineapple’s market value changes significantly when it goes through processing.

“Before, when we had the volume of harvested pineapples, we had difficulty looking for buyers. That is why we looked for ways,

and we consulted the DTI to see if we could process pineapple wine. We were glad that they trained us,” Secusana said.

The association plans to establish a processing facility as it prepares for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) accreditation.

No storm could stop the dedication of the Pineapple Growers Farmers Association as they worked hard to start over. They showed resilience and hope. They proved that with the right motivation and proper coordination with the government, it is possible to begin again.

USDA visit partnerships to strengthen ‘PRiSM’

The TWG will draft the rules and regulations to implement Section 9 of the Price Act relating to agricultural products

DA creates technical working group to craft Price Act IRR AGRICULTURE Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr. has formed a Technical Working Group (TWG) tasked to draft the rules and regulations to implement Section 9 of the Price Act relating to agricultural products.

The Price Act, or Republic Act 7581, was enacted to stabilize the supply and prices of necessities and prime commodities, safeguard consumers against unreasonable price hikes, and ensure fair practices within the market. The Department of Agriculture is the lead agency tasked to stabilize prices of crops, fish and other marine products, fresh meat, fresh poultry, dairy products, fertilizers, and other farm inputs during emergencies.

The Special Order 18 issued by Tiu Laurel underscores Section 9 of RA 7581, which provides the allocation of a buffer fund for the procurement, purchase, importation, or stockpiling of necessities or prime commodities and determines ways to distribute these items during times of shortages or if there is a need to influence market prices.

Assistant Secretary for Policy Research and Development Noel A. Padre is head of the eightmember TWG. On the other hand, Assistant Secretary for Regulations Paz Benavidez II is co-chairperson, while Director Jerome Bunyi, Officer-in-charge for Policy Research Service, was appointed vice chairperson.

Secretary Tiu Laurel ordered the TWG to develop a clear and concise set of rules to implement Section 9 of the Price Act, engage the Department of Trade and Industry and other government agencies in developing the IRR, consult with relevant stakeholders, including consumer groups and market experts, and ensure the IRR hews to the legal framework under the Price Act. Personnel from the Policy Research Service, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Regulations (OASR), and the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS) shall form part of the TWG’s Secretariat and provide technical and administrative support to the group.

DURING the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) visit to the Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, they determined possible collaborations to amplify the Philippine Rice Information System or PRiSM. PRiSM, or the rice paddy monitoring using satellite, is a first in Southeast Asia.

Rice fields are monitored nationwide with the help of earth-observing satellite technology and geographic information systems. Data from this serves as a guide to deliver appropriate and prioritized release programs. The data also helps prepare our farms for the threat of disasters.

Through its data products, PRiSM supports the DA in its strategic planning, decision-making, development project implementation, and disaster preparedness.

Those who shared knowledge and country experience included Pia Francesca Ang, agricultural specialist of the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service; Justin Jenkin, USDA crop assessment specialist for Southeast Asia; Michael Ward, agricultural counselor

of the Foreign Agriculture Service; John de Leon, PhilRice executive director; Jovino de Dios, PRiSM unit head; and Lea Abaoag, head of our Technology Management Services Division.

The salvaged cabbages are from La Trinidad Trading Post and have found markets in La Trinidad, Tuba, and Sablan

PRiSM is the first rice monitoring system in Southeast Asia that uses satellite imagery and Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

16 CamSur farmer groups ink deal on cacao, coffee development SIXTEEN coconut and cacao growers associations composed of over 100 farmers from 12 towns of Camarines Sur signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Coconut-based Cacao and Coffee Enterprise Development Project (C3EDP) under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) year 2 for the Camarines Sur province.

The MOU signing, which marked the launch of the CFIDP in Camarines Sur, was held at the JMR Museum in Dayangdang city on Dec. 21, 2023, and was led by the DA- High-Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP), together with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Camarines Sur provincial office, Provincial LGU of Camarines Sur, Municipal LGUs and farmer recipients.

The participants received an orientation on various topics, such as management practices and the marketing of cacao.

The 16 FCAs were: Tigaon Native Cacao Growers and Processors Association; Malabog Integrated Farmers Association of Caramoan; Del Vega Farmers Association Inc. of Baao; Baao Upland Farmers Association; Minadongjol Corn Farmers Association of Sgnay; Monte Calvario Smart Farmers Cooperative of Buhi; PILAC (Presentacion Integrated Livelihood Association Coop) of Presentacion; San Vicente Small Coconut Farmers Association of Buhi; Aliar Coconut Farmers Agriculture Coop. of San Fernando; Calabanga Cacao Growers Association; Coconutvill Farmers Association of Libmanan; agripreneur Farmers and Producers Assn., Inc. of Libmanan; Sinuknipan Cacao Farmers Association

of Del Gallego; Ragay Coco Sentral; Golden Coconut Farmers Association of Lupi; and Brgy. Salvacion United Farmers Association of Buhi.

These beneficiary associations will receive P2,258,680 in interventions for rehabilitating their cacao plantations. The rehab interventions will consist of 885 vermicomposting bags, 885 organic fertilizer, 225 sachets of KH boron, 25 mini chain saws, 25 grafting knives, 25 grass cutters, 25 long pruning shears, 75 short pruning shears, and nine soil augers.

Another P1,950,775 worth of interventions for the expansion of the cacao plantation will also be given.

It includes 27,500 grafted cacao seedlings, 275 bags of organic fertilizer, eight black nets, 40 long pruning shears, and 32 short pruning shears.

The CFIDP was drafted following the signing of Republic Act 11524, better known as the Coconut Farmers and Industry Fund Act of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, on Feb. 26, 2021.

CFIDP aims to increase the income and productivity of the 2.5 million coconut farmers in the country, promote poverty alleviation, education, and social equity, and rehabilitate and modernize the Philippine coconut industry.

The DA-HVCDP, through the DA RFOs (Regional Field Offices) and in close coordination with the PCA, prepared the 5-year CFIDP plan for the community-based Farm Enterprise Development: Farm Rehabilitation and Improvement: Coffee and Cacao Intercropping, which is among the seven components of the CFIDP. The CFIDP year 2 implementation was previously launched in Albay, Camarines Norte, and Masbate in 2023.

Representatives from 16 coconut and cacao growers associations in Camarines Sur signing the MOU for the C3EDP

DA-CAR sells the cabbages to different government agencies in Baguio and other provinces

DA-Cordillera continues to link farmers to buyers THE Department of Agriculture-Cordillera (DA-CAR) has again taken proactive measures to continuously support local farmers facing challenges in selling their produce.

DA-CAR sold around 7.8 metric tons (MT) of salvaged cabbages on Jan. 6. The cabbages, sourced from La Trinidad Trading Post, found new markets within La Trinidad, Tuba, and Sablan.

As part of the extended efforts, DA-CAR, on Jan. 9, expanded its reach by bringing 7.5 MT to E-CARE, a non-government organization. The agency also brought 7.5 MT tons to Kalinga, 4 MT to Isabela, Nueva Ecija, and Manila, and 3 MT to the DA-Central Office, with plans to reach additional places such as Bulacan and Region IV-A in the succeeding days.

To recall, DA-CAR also sold 3.1 MT of cabbages to the different government agencies in Baguio City last January 5.

As of Jan. 9, DA-CAR has already sold 29.4 MT of cabbages.

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 13, 2024

rumallari@thestandard.com.ph rieramallari@yahoo.com RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

H

ONOR Philippines just made the highly anticipated grand launch of HONOR X9b 5G more exciting!

#TheToughestPhone HONOR X9b 5G is here HONOR X9b 5G fever is real

Fans are more than ecstatic as Parokya ni Edgar Vocalist Chito Miranda graced the unveiling of the toughest phone on January 12, 2024.

“We are very happy that Chito Miranda, Parokya Ni Edgar’s vocalist performed during the launch of our HONOR X9b 5G together with Miss Charm Philippines and HONOR Star Pauline Amelincx as the host. This is just one of our suprises, there’s more to watch out for so stay tuned,” said HONOR Philippines vice president Stephen Cheng.

The HONOR X9b 5G is a marvel of modern design and technology.

Its golden curvature strikes the perfect balance between aesthetic appeal and user comfort, making it an absolute pleasure to hold.

Despite its premium features, the HONOR X9b is surprisingly light and thin, weighing just 185g with a width of 7.98mm.

In addition, the triple camera system is meticulously crafted with the precision of light luxury watch craftsmanship.

The body is encased in vegan leather, providing a delicate and skin-friendly touch.

The HONOR X9b 5G is more than just a smartphone, it is a statement of style and sophistication.

For more information and announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website http://www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok. com/@honorphilippines).

To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www. hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

In the meantime, check out HON-

OR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide or online via Shopee (https://

Filipino Stanford graduate seeks place for PH on Global Tech Map LAWYER Juan Paolo Villonco, the first Filipino Stanford Law graduate and President of Astro Robotics, is resolute in his mission to establish the Philippines on the global technology map.

He joins forces with Jin Tomioka, CEO and Co-founder of Telexistence, a global leader in Robotics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Virtual Reality (VR) technology.

Villonco and Tomioka, both Asian graduates of Stanford University, share a common vision: to leverage their education and expertise to impact the Philippines and Japan positively. Inspired by their experiences at Stanford, where innovation and collaboration were nurtured, they have come together to translate their shared vision into a meaningful partnership.

“We met through common friends,” said Villonco of how he and Tomioka, who were in different graduate programs, met at Stanford. “We share in the belief that to build a better world, we must embrace technology and inclusive growth.”

Empowered by Stanford Excellence As proud alumni of Stanford University, Villonco and Tomioka embody the pinnacle of innovation and

EMPOWERING THE FUTURE: Atty. Juan Paolo Villonco, the pioneer Filipino

Stanford Law graduate and president of Astro Robotics, joins hands with Jin Tomioka, CEO and Co-founder of Telexistence, a leading global tech company, to drive innovative growth and place the Philippines on the map of the emerging tech revolution. Pictured are Villonco (third from left) and Tomioka (second from left) with the Astro Robotics and Telexistence team at the Astro Robotics office in Makati.

leadership. Villonco expressed that a Stanford education was a longstanding goal of his.

“I admire their interdisciplinary ap-

proach to learning, problem-solving, and to life in general,” he explained. “Their open-mindedness and pursuit of excellence through innovation and acceptance

bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONORTikTokShop). of disruption as a natural part of evolution greatly influenced my thinking and attitude towards work and life.”

Tomioka, on the other hand, had a 10-year career with Mitsubishi Corporation and decided to venture into early-stage businesses. “I wanted to get myself involved more in the process of building businesses by commercializing game-changing unproven technologies,” he said.

He added, “Stanford and communities around it, as known by the world, is the center of tech business and startups. Thus, it would be the best choice for my needs.”

Both Stanford alums were profoundly influenced by their experiences at the esteemed institution. The university, renowned for promoting a culture of innovation and encouraging a mindset that encourages thinking beyond conventional boundaries, shaped Villonco’s perspectives on challenges and overcoming the stigma of “failure.”

“I come from a traditional Filipino family and corporate background. I was once averse to thinking outside the box,” shared Villonco. “Stanford taught me that difficulty is part of the path to success. It gave me the courage to (go) against the grain.”

TECH OPPO’s Reno Series to lead trend in mobile photography OVER 200 million telephoto lensequipped smartphones were sold in 2022 globally, with 2024 projected to see that number increase further, according to Counterpoint Research’s latest report.

This trend is driven by consumers’ growing desire for high-quality zoom and portrait capabilities that were previously the domain of professional cameras. This highlights the lens’ pivotal role in modern mobile photography and its mass-market appeal.

Telephoto lenses have become indispensable in capturing life’s moments with greater detail and clarity, fulfilling the public’s need for advanced imaging technology. The crucial nature of these lenses illustrates their rise as not a luxury but a necessity for consumers worldwide who want to document their experiences with professional-grade quality, as highlighted in the report.

The Importance of the Telephoto Lens in Elevating Mobile Photography The telephoto lens has become a cornerstone of mobile photography, providing users with the ability to take pictures that stand out for their sharpness and artistry. Whether capturing a distant landscape or a close-up portrait, telephoto lenses allow for a level of detail and emotional resonance that rivals traditional cameras. Counterpoint’s report shows that these lenses are increasingly being integrated into smartphones globally.

The ability to zoom without losing image quality, coupled with the unique visual effects a telephoto lens can create, has made it a favourite among smartphone users. It is found that the proportion of smartphones equipped with a telephoto camera has increased both globally and in China, reaching 19.3% and 24.4% respectively, confirming the essential nature of telephoto lenses in today’s mobile photography landscape.

The Demand for Telephoto Lens Continues to Surge The study has also found that massmarket uptake of telephoto lenses is accelerating, especially within China’s economically priced smartphone segments. There is a remarkable increase in sales of telephoto lens smartphones, making up a significant portion of the market by Q3 2023.

The appeal of telephoto lenses in affordable smartphones reflects consumers’ expectations for premium features without the premium price tag. Smartphone brands, recognising this demand, have been quick to respond, equipping their mid-tier phones with telephoto capabilities that allow more people to enjoy enhanced photography experiences typically reserved for high-end models.

OPPO Continues Investment in High-Quality Telephoto Photography OPPO has played a transformative role in democratising high-quality mobile photography. With a legacy of integrating superior camera technology into its devices, OPPO has consistently delivered on its promise of accessible innovation.

POCO X6 5G: Excellent all-around smartphone

POCO X6 5G

By Riera U. Mallari POCO phones’ DNA has been all about powerful performance, sleek design and bang for the buck.

So why stray from that winning formula?

The POCO X6 5G is that, and more.

As part of the POCO X6 Series’ global

launch, POCO revealed that its new offerings are a “comprehensive evolution” — boasting of substantial performance and user experience upgrades.

We reviewed the POCO X6 5G and were impressed by its powerful processor, long-lasting battery, smooth 120Hz display and good camera system. In this age and time, a lousy camera will doom you a smartphone brand, as young adults crave for phones that will make them look good, while at the same time, snap memorable photos for posterity’s sake.

Design Teetering between the budget to the low-midrange smartphone segment, the POCO X6 5G is well built and feels nice to hold, even with its plastic back and plastic frame. Lightweight and thin, the unit is comfortable to hold even for long stretches.

The POCO X6 5G has a 6.67-inch IPS LCD, with a peak brightness of 1800 nits, ensuring images are clear and sharp even under sunlight. The CrystalRes 120Hz

Sample photos

Flow AMOLED display makes scrolling and animations a breeze. With a superslim bezel design, while featuring a firstin-series premium quality, POCO X6 offers fully immersive entertainment action, delivering leading flagship-levels of upgraded experiences for enjoying smooth and fluid viewing for social media brows-

ing, video and movie watching.

Performance Powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor, with a 640,170 AnTuTu score, and paired with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, the POCO X6 5G offers plenty of power for everyday tasks, multitasking or gaming. Add to this an upgrade to a flagship level SoC

and the POCO X6 5G delivers outstanding overall best in-class gaming and entertainment experiences to Gen Z users. Light to moderate gaming is a piece of cake, and we were pleasantly surprised at how well it also handled games like Shadow of Legends and Fortnite.

The POCO X6 5G comes with 128GB or 256GB of storage. There is also a microSD card slot, allowing you to expand the storage up to 1TB. Camera The POCO X6 5G also boasts of an impressive camera system, including a 64MP main camera with flagship quality OIS in the series for the very first time, ensuring sharp steady images even in low-light conditions.

Photos are hi-res, with plenty of detail, no noise, high contrast, balance and image range that millennials and Gen Z mobile photography enthusiasts will love. (See sample photos)