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INFLATION PULLS Q4 2023, FULL-YEAR GDP TO 5.6%, BELOW GOV’T TARGET By Darwin G. Amojelar THE economy grew slightly quicker than expected last year, data showed Wednesday, even as it was hit by high food prices and weakness in overseas markets. The 5.6 percent expansion in the fourth quarter of 2023 was well down from the 7.6 percent seen in 2022 but beat the 5.5 percent estimated in a survey by Bloomberg. However, it was below the govern-
VOL. XXXVII • NO. 351 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
ment’s target of 6 percent to 7 percent for 2023, Socio-Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan told reporters. “We are concerned about the low growth in food spending due to high food prices,” he said, with a serious seasonal dry spell in most of the country expected to hit the laggard farm sector in the early part of this year. The services sector, household spending, construction, and durable equipment Next page
Senate to start Cha-cha talks Romualdez welcomes Zubiri commitment to tackle economic changes
By Macon Ramos-Araneta, Maricel V. Cruz, and Othel V. Campos
‘ASEAN members can pursue bilateral sea Code of Conduct’
T
HE Senate will push through with its own effort to amend economic provisions of the Constitution, which was earlier put on hold after senators raised the alarm over a separate signature campaign for a people’s initiative that they said sought to make them irrelevant.
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Marcos raised the possibility NEWS / A2 of pursuing a separate bilate r a l code of conduct in the South China Sea with members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). “What I was saying before about having an agreement, if we cannot finish the code of conduct with ASEAN and China, I said let us make it bilateral first with the members of ASEAN,” the President said after his twoday state visit in Vietnam. Mr. Marcos said his visit signals the beginning of the dialogue in crafting the COC between the two nations. Asked when talks on the COC with Vietnam would begin, the Chief Executive said: “We’re pretty much there.” “That’s the memo-
Speaker Martin Romualdez on Wednesday welcomed Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri’s commitment to begin discussing Charter change next week. “We are heartened by the news that the Senate, finally, will commence hearings on Resolution of Both Houses 6 next week. This marks a significant step towards the much-awaited constitutional amendments,” Romualdez said in a statement.
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House resolution to defend Speaker
TOAST TO VIETNAM. President Marcos
THE House of Representatives on Wednesday declared its “vigorous support” for Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, defending him from “unfounded” accusations by senators on the people’s initiative and calling for adherence to inter-parliamentary courtesy.
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Año slams China sovereignty claims over Scarborough
offers a toast to Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong and First Lady Phan Thi Thanh Tam during the state banquet in his honor at the International Convention Center in Hanoi, Vietnam on Tuesday night. The Philippines signed a five-year deal with Vietnam to ensure a steady supply of affordable rice to the country as global prices of the staple continue to surge (see related story on A4). PPA POOL
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Rody calls for Mindanao to secede via sign campaign Acorda to cops: Tune out political ‘noise’, stay focused on mandate By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Maricel V. Cruz
FORMER President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday night called for Mindanao to secede from the Philippines through a process based on a signature campaign that would be presented to the United Nations.
At a news conference in Davao City, Duterte said it was Davao Del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez who first pushed for the secession. “It’s not a rebellion; it’s not sedition,” Duterte said. “There’s a process, I think, before the UN wherein you would gather signatures from all sorts of Mindanao veri-
fied under oath in the presence of so many people [to] decide that we want a separate [state],” Duterte said. “If you want to do it in Luzon and the Visayas, too, that’s up to you,” he added in Filipino. Duterte has been critical of a signature campaign for a people’s initiative Next page
Sara: I don’t have to agree with my dad
‘DON’T FEAR INITIATIVE.’ House Ways and Means Chair and Albay Rep. Joey Sal-
ceda discusses the People’s Initiative and Charter Change at the Kapihan sa Manila Bay on Wednesday. Salceda says there is no need to fear the ‘PI’ because the Constitution ‘created by the people can be altered by the people.’ Norman Cruz
VICE President Sara Duterte said she does not need to agree with her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, over his differences with President Marcos, after a rift between the Marcos and Duterte camps became evident following separate rallies in Manila and Davao City on Sunday. “May respeto ako sa mga pananaw at opinyon ni dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte pati na ng aking mga kapatid (I respect the views and opinions of former President Rodrigo Duterte and of my brothers),” said the Vice President in a statement issued on Wednesday. “Ngunit, katulad ng posisyon ko sa maraming isyu, hindi kailangan na sumasang-ayon ako sa lahat ng mga ito. Pinalaki ako ng aking mga magu-
THE Philippine National Police has appealed to the public to spare the institution from political noise. PNP chief Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr. told police officers to remain focused on their mandate. “Whatever news we’ve been hearing, the PNP will not be affected and our PNP chief always tells our cops, through our respective regional directors, to not listen to political noise,” PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said. Fajardo said while the police respect the right of interest groups to express their own sentiments, even those against the administration, but these groups should not try to influ-
ence the PNP. ‘’We are just appealing to them to spare the PNP. We know our mandate and we will continue to do our duties and that includes upholding and respecting the rule of law,” she said. On Tuesday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said there is no need to conduct loyalty checks among its ranks amid the political fallout between President Marcos and former President Rodrigo Duterte. “The statement of AFP chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. is there is not even a need for a loyalty check,” military spokesperson Col. Francel Padilla said. Next page
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PH lands on US Trade list of fake goods sellers anew By Othel V. Campos THE Philippines again landed in the list of notorious physical sites for counterfeit and pirated goods of the US Trade Representative. The USTR 2023 Notorious Market
List cited the establishments at the Greenhills Shopping Center in San Juan City as a hub for counterfeit brands of accessories, bags, electronic gadgets, footwear, perfumes, and watches. The Philippines joined 19 other countries trading illicit goods in the USTR list.
The report noted that despite efforts by state agencies to curb illegal trade of counterfeit items in Greenhills, many merchants operating within the shopping mall managed to circumvent government monitoring.
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SM BACKS DINAGYANG. Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Trenas (2nd from left) is flanked by guests (from left) SM Supermalls President Steven T. Tan, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee, Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., and TV host Tim Yap as they watch the different tribes’ stunning performances during the Dinagyang Festival 2024 last Sunday at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand.
NEWS
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
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DA: El Niño damage hits P109.4m E
VEN though the El Niño phenomenon has yet to reach its peak, damage and losses sustained by the agriculture sector due to the severe climate condition have already swelled to over P100 million, the government said.
Citing assessments from its regional field offices in Western Visayas and Zam-
· Information on proper crop management during El Niño, including adjustment of planting schedules and optimizing fertilizer use; · Field validation of areas vulnerable to drought and dry spell, and positioning of interventions for farmers to be affected; · Analyze data on planting and harvesting (rice and corn), sources of irrigation systems (dams, SWIP, SSIPs), as well as status of irrigation facilities (operational, non-operational) · Joint area assessment before the conduct of cloud seeding operations by concerned DA operating units and national agencies; and · Adoption of drought-resistant crop
varieties during El Niño. Citing an El Niño advisory issued by the state weather bureau PAGASA, the DA said a strong El Niño was ongoing and was expected to continue from January to February 2024. “Majority of global climate models suggest that El Niño will likely persist until the March-April-May 2024 season with a transition to ENSO (El Niño Southern Oscillation)-neutral in the April-May-June 2024 season,” it said.
boanga Peninsula, the Department of Agriculture on Wednesday said damage to crops brought about by El Niño stood at P109.4 million -- significantly higher than the initial P717,500 worth of losses reported as of Jan. 24. The DA said El Niño has affected 2,602 farmers who till 2,177 hectares of rice fields in the two regions, with a total 4,738 metric tons of rice damaged. “Most of the damage and losses in-
curred on rice are at reproductive stages,” the DA said, adding it has taken several measures to address the threat of El Niño, including the following: · Regular monitoring of weather conditions and actual ground situation; · Continuous dissemination of advisories and agro-meteorological information through Provincial, Municipal/ City Agriculturists and Report Officers through Facebook/Messenger;
Rody... From A1
Año slams China sovereignty claims over Scarborough
to amend the Constitution, and has accused President Marcos and his cousin, Speaker Martin Romualdez, of being behind the effort. He added that the people’s initiative was meant to keep some people in power. The former President said in its initial years as a separate and independent state, Mindanao would have to restrict the entry of people from Luzon and the Visayas. “But you can come. People from Luzon, Visayas, we will not deny you,” he said. In calling for secession, Duterte said nothing has happened to Mindanao even after so many presidents— including himself. “So I really want a separate Mindanao,” he said. “I’m growing tired… Nothing has happened in the Philippines.” Alvarez, meanwhile, blamed Romualdez for reviving talk of a separate Mindanao. “Honestly, I want to thank Martin Romualdez for what he did, which ignited this,” Alvarez said. Alvarez said once Mindanao secedes, the International Criminal Court (ICC) may be banned from Mindanao—referring to a sore point for Duterte, who has been accused of crimes against humanity before the tribunal for his bloody war on drugs. “We will be a different country without any ties to the ICC,” he added.
House... From A1 The House held an all-member caucus on Tuesday to address recent developments and growing sentiments among congressmen, which will be voiced in a resolution to be filed Monday. The caucus was led by party leaders House Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe, Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr., Deputy Speaker and Quezon Rep. David Suarez, Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, Camiguin Rep. Jurdin Jesus Romualdo, Quezon Rep. Mark Enverga, Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco, Rizal Rep. Jack Duavit, Bataan Rep. Albert Garcia, Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, Romblon Rep. Eleandro Jesus Madrona, Ilocos Sur Rep. Kristine SingsonMeehan, BHW Partylist Rep. Angelica Natasha Co, and others. In their resolution, Dalipe said congressmen also denounced the aggressive tactics used by the Senate, which are “detrimental to the spirit of cooperative governance and the public’s confidence in parliamentary processes.”
Acorda... From A1 Duterte earlier called on the military and the police to protect the Constitution against alleged threats from proCharter change groups. “The keyword here is that the AFP is non-partisan. We will continue to focus on our mission to end our local terrorist insurgency problem and transition ultimately to territorial defense,” she said. In a press conference earlier this month, Duterte said only “stupid people” will link him to destabilization efforts
The El Niño phenomenon is characterized by the abnormal warming of sea surface temperature in the central
SPEAKER’S STATEMENT ON RBH 6 IN THE SENATE WE ARE heartened by the news that the Senate, finally, will commence hearings on Resolution of Both Houses 6 next week. This marks a significant step towards the much-awaited constitutional amendments. As Speaker of the House of Representatives, I await with great anticipation the outcomes of these Senate deliberations. The prospect of amending and potentially easing certain restrictive provisions in the 1987 Constitution is more than a legislative exercise; it is a great stride towards realizing the aspirations of our people and unlocking the full potential of our nation. We welcome this latest development as the announcement of Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri demonstrates a united legislative front in addressing crucial changes that have the potential to shape the future of our country. As the Senate embarks on this momentous task, the House of Representatives stands ready to collaborate and contribute to this significant legislative endeavor. We share a common goal – to ensure that any amendments to our Constitution serve the best interests of the Filipino people and lay a strong foundation for a more prosperous and equitable Philippines. Asahan po ng ating mga Senador na kasama nila ang House of Representatives sa misyong ito. Handa kami na umaksyon at aprubahan sa Kamara ang mga pagbabagong ipapasok ng Senado sa ating Konstitusyon, Matagal na namin itong hinihintay. I commend Senate President Zubiri for his leadership in taking this bold step forward and look forward to the insightful outcomes of the Senate’s deliberations. Together, we are writing a new chapter in our nation’s history, one that holds the promise of transformative change and enduring progress.
NATIONAL Security Adviser Eduardo Año slammed the China Coast Guard’s claims that Beijing has an “indisputable sovereignty” over the Bajo de Masinloc (also known as Scarborough Shoal) and its adjacent waters. Año said the waterway is located inside the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ). He said Bajo de Masinloc is an integral part of Philippine territory, being part of the municipality of Masinloc in Zambales province. “It is located 124 nautical miles west of Luzon mainland and is well within the 200-nautical mile EEZ and the Philippine
continental shelf,” he said in a statement. Under international law, Año said Manila exercises sovereign rights and jurisdiction over the Bajo de Masinloc, as well as the waters and continental shelf surrounding it. He said it is an important fishing ground for local fishermen of the provinces of Zambales, Bataan and Pangasinan. “China’s repeated claims of sovereignty over Bajo de Masinloc have no basis in international law or in fact. International law is clear. China cannot, therefore, lawfully exercise sovereignty over it. As clearly stated by the 2016 arbitral award, UNCLOS (United
Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea) superseded any ‘historic rights’ as claimed by China. Therefore, China cannot claim entitlements in areas of the ‘nine-dashed line,’ now ‘10-dashed line,’ that exceed UNCLOS limits,” Año said. He also pointed out that based on early Spanish maps of the Philippines, including the 1734 Pedro Murillo Velarde Map, Bajo de Masinloc was always part of the country’s territory. When Spain ceded the Philippines to the United States under the 1898 Treaty of Paris, the Scarborough Reef was included in the census of islands done by the US government, Año said. Rey E. Requejo
Senate... From A1
But now Zubiri said they can proceed with the hearing of RBH 6 due the President’s statement that people’s initiative is no longer an option for Charter change. Senator Grace Po said the people’s initiative for Charter change was flawed from the beginning because it focused on having both chambers of Congress vote together, instead of stating the provisions that needed amendments in the Constitution. “It is inherently wrong,” she said. “If the intention of the movers of PI was on the economic amendments, then the specific provisions should have been spelled out in the petition,” she added. The senator said things got worse with reports and actual testimonies of individuals that money or assistance was given in exchange for their signatures. Romualdez said the prospect of amending and potentially easing certain restrictive provisions in the 1987 Constitution is more than a legislative exercise. “It is a great stride towards realizing the aspirations of our people and unlocking the full potential of our nation,” he said.
Zubiri on Wednesday said the Senate will refrain from commenting on the recent people’s initiative and buckle down to work by shifting its focus to pending bills. “Let’s slow down the political bickering because what’s important is the welfare of our people,” Zubiri said in Filipino. Senator Imee Marcos, in a separate interview, said senators are willing to sit down with Speaker Romualdez and other congressmen with the assurance that they will no longer pursue PI. Senator Marcos, who is now leading the investigation of alleged irregularities in the PI, was answering the call of congressmen to stop the investigation and hasten the passage of the RBH 6 instead. She questioned why members of the House of Representatives are interfering in the affairs of the Senate. The Senator said PI discredits the Marcos administration and wastes a lot of political capital which “can never be recovered again.” The senator was set to fly to Davao on Friday to open the second inquiry regarding the PI with another set of witnesses and more resource persons.
charges against counterfeit vendors. Coordinated efforts between right holders and mall management have resulted in warning letters and suspension of business for repeat violators. The mall management, with the support of city authorities, is reportedly in the process of converting Greenhills Shopping Center into a high-end 50-stall mall with legitimate sellers.
The USTR noted that right holders acknowledged the strong partnership between various government agencies and the mall management but said they will need to wait and see the results. The report highlighted that in 2023, stakeholders reported that foot traffic at many physical counterfeit markets has significantly recovered from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
randum of understanding (MOU) we’re working on between our two coastguards and the plans to have joint cruises, joint exercises this year 2024,” Mr. Marcos said, referring to one of the MOUs he signed with Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong on Tuesday. The Philippines and Vietnam are both claimants in the tension-filled South China Sea and share the same sentiments against China’s massive claims in the region. “Well, the agreement is between Vietnam and the Philippines. So, whatever other countries do, that’s not included,” Mr. Marcos said. Earlier, Mr. Marcos said the South China Sea remains to be a “point of contention” during his call with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Ching. Mr. Marcos said the Philippines continue to uphold the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. ‘’On regional and international issues, the South China Sea remains to be a point of contention. The Philippines’ position on the South China Sea has been consistent, clear, and firmly anchored in the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea,’’ he said.
my parents to value freedom of thought and decision-making.) The former president accused Marcos of being a drug addict, while Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte called for the President’s resignation. Mr. Marcos said on Tuesday that his relationship with VP Duterte remains unchanged despite the accusations lob-
bied by her relatives against him. “It’s exactly the same because (Vice President Duterte) hasn’t said anything of that nature,” he said. The President also made it clear that he will keep Duterte as his education secretary, for which the Vice President expressed her gratitude. “We value the President’s recognition
of the role of everyone at the Department of Education to push the 8-point Socioeconomic Agenda of the administration for the Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines).” The Vice President also thanked Mr. Marcos for respecting her views, especially regarding the controversial People’s Initiative, which she called an insult to the poor and a violation of their right to free choice.
Inflation... From A1
the sharp rise in borrowing costs. But we don’t expect this resilience to last,” said Shivaan Tandon, at Capital Economics. The October-to-December performance brought the full-year economic growth to 5.6 percent., lower than the government’s target range of 6 percent to 7 percent and slower than 7.6 percent registered in the same period in 2022. “The main contributors to the fourth quarter 2023 annual growth were: Financial and insurance activities, 11.8 percent; Wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, 5.2 percent; and Construction, 8.5 percent,” the PSA said. For the full year of 2023, the indus-
tries which contributed the most to the annual growth were: Wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, 5.5 percent; Financial and insurance activities, 8.9 percent; and Construction, 8.8 percent. The PSA said all major economic sectors, namely: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing (AFF); Industry; and Services posted year-on-year growth in the fourth quarter of 2023 at 1.4 percent, 3.2 percent, and 7.4 percent, respectively. For the full year of 2023, AFF, Industry, and Services also posted growth in 2023 at 1.2 percent, 3.6 percent, and 7.2 percent, respectively.
“As Speaker of the House of Representatives, I await with great anticipation the outcomes of these Senate deliberations,” he added. In an interview yesterday, Zubiri said Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) No. 6, which he had filed, would be tackled in hearings starting next week. The resolution seeks to amend three specific economic provisions of the Constitution through a constituent assembly, with the Senate and the House of Representatives voting separately. The hearing will be handled by the subcommittee on constitutional amendments and revisions of codes and laws led by Senator Juan Edgardo Angara. Meanwhile, Zubiri, Angara, and Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda had filed RBH 6. Zubiri said he filed BHR 6 to avert a constitutional crisis and to preserve bicameralism. When the resolution was presented to President Marcos in January, Zubiri said, Romualdez had committed to approve it.
PH... From A1 The Philippine government, through the National Committee on Intellectual Property Rights, has worked with right holders and the management at Greenhills Shopping Center on enforcement against counterfeit sellers, including product seizures and legal
Sara:... From A1 lang na may pagpapahalaga sa malayang pag-iisip at pagpapasya,” she added. (However, like my position on many issues, I do not need to agree with all of them [family’s views]. I was raised by
against the administration as he urged Filipinos to observe the rule of law. Asked if he is satisfied with the Marcos administration, Duterte said then: “In a sense, we have not seen any issue of corruption or abuse. In a sense, Marcos is treading a straight path.” “I can’t say there is a need for change or anything. I do not see any need for agitation -- nothing,” he added. On Sunday, however, Duterte warned his successor that efforts to amend the Constitution through a people’s initiative could lead to Mr. Marcos suffering the fate of his late father who was ousted in 1986. With Vince Lopez
were the key growth drivers, national statistician Dennis Mapa told reporters. But export growth slowed sharply to just 0.6 percent in the fourth quarter, compared with 5.0 percent a year earlier. Balisacan added that the government would maintain its 2024 target of 6.57.5 percent -- a figure analysts warned was too optimistic given the expected weaker global prospects. “The domestic demand figures suggest that the economy is holding up well against
‘ASEAN... From A1
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NEWS
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
mst.daydesk@gmail.com
MULTICOLORED BRIDGE.
The Esplanade extension bridge in Iloilo City, probably the most colourful span in the country, continues to draw visitors wishing to admire the artworks by members of the Bausulangpu Artists Society depicting indigenous children’s games such as pino, sungka, and tumbang patis. Norman Cruz
‘I’m not angry at him,’ Imee says of Speaker
Battle lines drawn: Digong dares PBBM to take drug test with him T By Macon Ramos-Araneta
HE battle lines appeared to have been drawn as former president Rodrigo Duterte dared President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to undergo a drug test in public to prove that he is not a drug user.
Duterte tossed the challenge during a press conference in Davao City where he said he too , would undergo a blood test at the Luneta Park in Manila to be supervised by an independent doctor, GMA News reported. It may be recalled that Marcos ran for the presidency under the Uniteam Alliance banner with then Davao City Mayornow Vice President and concurrent Edu-
cation Secretary Sara Duterte, daughter of the former president. Duterte also said a Cabinet official allegedly uses cocaine along with Marcos, and insisted that the President was on the watchlist of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency. PDEA however, belied the allegation. The former president also dared his successor to explained why he purportedly
underwent rehabilitation in Germany prior to the onset of the campaign for the 2022 elections. Duterte, who was at the center of the bloody anti-drug war during his administration, said he would publicize the PDEA list containing Marcos’s name if he could get hold of it. Duterte raised the challenge after Speaker Martin Romualdez, an uncle of the President, dared him to substantiate his allegation that Mr. Marcos was a drug user. The erstwhile leader, during a prayer rally in Davao City, also reportedly described the sitting Chief Executive as “bangag,” a Filipino colloquial for a person high on drugs, and even accused him of being a drug addict. Duterte likewise charged that the Mar-
cos administration was waging a campaign to amend the Constitution to “perpetuate themselves in power.” The President however, merely laughed off the charges, saying it could be the effect of fentanyl, a drug his predecessor admitted to taking during his watch at Malacanang. “It is highly addictive and it has very serious side effects,” Marcos was quoted as saying of fentanyl. The United States Drug Enforcement Administration described fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid used as a pain reliever and anesthetic. Senator Ronald Dela Rosa, reputedly a strong ally of Duterte, tried to dissociate himself from the brewing row between Marcos and his former boss.
SENATOR Imee Marcos on Wednesday declared she has no ill-feelings towards her uncle Speaker Martin Romualdez. “I am not angry at him. No anger towards him. It’s not personal. There’s no such thing!” Marcos said, adding it has nothing to do with their family. Marcos and Romualdez have engaged in a “word war” following their contrasting hard-line stance over people’s initiative movement toward Charter change (Cha-cha). In a media briefing, Marcos pointed out that the row between the Speaker and the President involved those who are out to destroy the administration which carries the name of the Marcos family. “All I want is to correct them. I don’t want a fight with anybody....I’m not quarrelsome, and rude....I don’t like their gas lighting on all of us,” the senator stressed. Responding to Romualdez pronouncement that he is open to a discussion with her, Marcos said the Speaker should end first his push for people’s initiative. Pressed on her stand if she’s with the Dutertes or the Marcoses, the senator retorted; “Why should I be required to make a choice? I love them all. I just do not want (someone) destroying our name,” she reiterated. According to Marcos, they had fought a tough battle for 35 years after the 1986 EDSA Revolution. The bloodless revolution toppled the 20-year strong-armed rule of her father, the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. “I have gone places. It was really very difficult for our family,” related the senator. Marcos said she will not tolerate anybody destroying this second chance for the Marcos family, which she considers a “blessing from Heaven.” Macon Ramos-Araneta
Galvez enjoins people to rally behind Marcos’ Bagong Pilipinas initiative By Vince Lopez PRESIDENTIAL Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Carlito Galvez, Jr. throws full support to the Marcos administration’s “Bagong Pilipinas” initiative as he called on the people to rally behind the campaign that aims to bring greater peace, progress and unity to the country. “I urge my fellow Filipinos to fully support the national government’s Bagong Pilipinas campaign. This is a multi-sectoral effort that seeks to bring all of us together as one nation regardless of ethnicity, religion, economic status or personal beliefs,” Galvez said.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sunday formally launched the “Bagong Pilipinas” campaign, outlining “a master plan for genuine development that benefits all our people.” In his speech at the launch ceremony, the President stressed that it is not a “mere slogan” but a “holistic and inclusive brand of governance” that will guide the government in its development and peace- building efforts. “The purpose of Bagong Pilipinas is to lay down ideals that we must achieve for the future of our country. The patchy plan that is different is over and all that’s happening is that we’re falling apart,” the Chief Executive said.
DBM, COA sign circular on revised manual governing proper disposal of state properties THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Commission on Audit (COA) have issued a joint circular embodying the revised manual on the disposal of government properties to ensure accountability, efficiency, and sustainability in managing state assets. In a statement, the DBM said the signing ceremony for the circular, led by Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and COA chairperson Gamaliel Cordoba, was held at the DBM Central Office in Manila on Tuesday. “The revised manual seeks to update
the National Budget Circular (NBC) No. 425 dated 28 January 1992 prescribing the Manual on the Disposal of Government Property to guide the agencies concerned in their disposal undertakings,” the DBM said. Among the salient features of the new manual is the determination of coverage and scope of implementation, covering all government properties that are movable or personal, purchased, owned, or otherwise acquired including those donated to, stocked, and used by the government in its operations.
NGO MARKS FIRST 1,000 DAYS. The non-government organization Child Coalition headed by former Senator Joey Lina marks its first 1,000 days with the inauguration of the Fraternal Order of Philippine Eagles led by Ronald Delos Santos as national president. The event also sees the signing of an agreement to help address malnutrition in the country. Lino Santos
OCD, NEXTGEN forge accord on emergency response THE Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and Next Generation Advocate Foundation PH Inc. (NEXTGEN) on Tuesday forged an agreement on to bolster the government’s response operations during emergencies and disasters. Under the accord, NEXTGEN will provide support to the government’s response operations by furnishing resources such as relief goods for disaster and emergency victims as recommended by the OCD. NEXTGEN will also assist in other
projects and activities related to response initiatives. OCD Administrator Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno and NEXTGEN’s Treasurer Princess Go concluded the agreement. In a statement, Nepomuceno expressed gratitude to the NEXTGEN Foundation for collaborating with the OCD in terms of response operations, emphasizing the importance of ensuring timely and adequate assistance to populations affected by disasters.
He highlighted the broader positive impact of the agreement on all Filipinos, particularly the younger generation. “We have to help the younger generation understand the importance of preparedness and the need for a reliable system in the event of major calamities,” Nepomuceno said. For her part, Go conveyed the foundation’s commitment to support the OCD and serve Filipino communities. Vince Lopez
Zubiri renews push for special economic zone project in Bulacan SENATE President Juan Miguel Zubiri on Wednesday reiterated his push for the creation of a special economic zone in Bulacan province to entice more foreign investors and complement the soon-to-be-finished aerotropolis outside of Metro Manila. At the hearing of the Senate Committee on Economic Affairs, Zubiri said he refiled Senate Bill No. 2266 titled An Act Establishing the Bula-
can Airport City Special Economic Zone and Freeport. The said the facility will help spur economic development by encouraging manufacturers in various industries to build their facilities in the area. “It embodies a vision of comprehensive development and inclusive growth in the province of Bulacan and nearby areas,” Zubiri said.
He added that Bulacan can be the next growth area for ecozones, citing the successes of the ecozones in Clark in Pampanga and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA). “Despite being previously vetoed by President Marcos, it remains a crucial catalyst to bring infrastructure development, attract investments and create jobs in the area,” he said. Macon Ramos-Araneta
DPWH finishes P38-m road, bridge rehab projects in Zamboanga GS1 PHILIPPINES CONFAB. GS1 Philippines officers hold their annual conference and general membership meeting at Crown Plaza Hotel in Ortigas Center, Pasig City. In photo are (from left) Teodoro Padilla, public relations officer, Pharmaceutical and Health Association of the Philippines; Anna Marie Anastacio, corporate secretary, Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines; Sergio Ortiz Luis Jr. , trustee, Philippines Exporters Confederation; Roberto Claudio, president/CEO, Philippine Retailers Association; Atty. Pablo Gancayco, chairman, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Comm. Joseph Ross Jocson, vice president, Packaging Institute of the Philippines; Carlos Cabochan, Philippines Consumer Centric Association; Antonio Sayo, trustee, Philippine Food Processors and Exporters Organization. Revoli Cortez
By Vito Barcelo THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed the P38 million rehabilitation and improvement of road and bridge projects in the municipalities of Ipil and Kabasalan in Zamboanga province. DPWH regional director Cayamombao
Dia said the road in Sibugay was widened from two to four lanes to ease traffic congestion in the area. The widened road now caters to more vehicles, helping relieve traffic and providing more convenient travel along the area,” Dia said. The scope of works on the project in-
cluded concreting, earthworks, subbase and base course, with provisions for drainage and slope protection. Meanwhile, the newly rehabilitated 69.8-meter Kabasalan Bridge now ensures the safety of motorists traversing the Lanao-Pagadian-Zamboanga City Road, the DPWH official said.
NEWS
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
MST.DAYDESK@GMAIL.COM
De Lima says gab with UN’s Khan ‘engaging, insightful’ By Rio N. Araja
BAMBINO EXHIBIT. As part of Pasig City’s celebration of the 23rd Bambino Grand Festival, a Bambino Exhibit is opened showcasing various images of the Sto. Niño or the Child Jesus, on the 2nd floor of SM City East Ortigas from Jan. 29 to Feb. 11. Norman Cruz
Rapporteur meets with PH human rights body REPRESENTATIVES of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Wednesday met with United Nations Special Rapporteur Irene Khan to gain insights on the situation of the country’s press freedom. The meeting also tackled laws on the rights of Filipinos to expression and access to digital communications and their impacts on various sectors, including the marginalized. The findings of the Special Rapporteur based on her meeting with the CHR would be part of her final report to be presented at the 59th Session of the UN Human Rights Council in June 2025. The preliminary observations and implementation of Khan’s recommendations would be discussed with the government at the end of her visit. “It must be noted that the conduct of country visits of Special Rapporteurs are part of the special procedures established by the UN. Their mandate is to report and advise on a range of human rights concerns from a thematic or country-specific point of view on behalf of the Human Rights Council,” CHR said. The CHR is one of the government institutions visited by the Special Rapporteur in order to assess the current status of the Philippines’ compliance to its human rights obligations, particularly within the context of freedom of opinion and expression. Rio N. Araja
PNP report says focus crimes drop by 28% THE Philippine National Police (PNP) has recorded a 28-percent drop in focus crimes from Jan. 1 to 30 this year. In a press briefing at Camp Crame, Quezon City Wednesday, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said a total of 2,301 focus crimes were recorded during this period, as compared to 3,223 crimes recorded in the same period last year. Classified as focus crimes are murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, theft, robbery, vehicle theft, and motorcycle theft. “We saw a 28.61 percent drop in focus crimes and I hope with the help of our countrymen, we can sustain this decrease in crimes. The low crime rate motivates our police officers for them to do better in their jobs and they know their focus, which is to enforce the law and implement legal orders of the duly constituted authorities,” Fajardo said. Meanwhile, Fajardo assured that there is no brewing destabilization plot among the PNP’s ranks. “Whatever we hear, let us be cautious of these rumors, but on the part of the PNP, we have not monitored any destabilization plot or even the coup d’état,” she said. She said PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr.’s guidance is for police officials to remain apolitical. “We know our mandate and we will remaincommittedtofulfillingourdutyand that includes upholding and respecting the rule of law,” she added.
FORMER Senator Leila de Lima recently met with United Nations Special Rapporteur (UNSR) for Freedom of Opinion and Expression Irene Khan, who is currently on an official visit to assess the state of free speech in the Philippines. De Lima described the meeting as “very engaging and insightful.” She took the opportunity to share with Khan her struggles as a political prisoner during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte. “Shared my insights on press freedom under Duterte and my difficult journey amid relentless persecution by the Duterte regime,” De Lima posted on X after their meeting on Tuesday. “Honored [and] grateful, Madame Khan, for your unbending support for our shared causes in fighting disinformation, protecting free speech, and upholding justice [and] human rights,” the former Justice Secretary and Commission on Human Rights (CHR) chairperson added. Khan also met with CHR representatives on Wednesday, Jan. 31, to share her own insights on the state of press free-
dom in the country, laws on the rights to freedom of expression, access to digital communications and their various sectors, including the marginalized. The independent constitutional office noted the significance of Khan’s visit as “part of the special procedures established by the UN.” CHR said it respects her mandate to report on a range of human rights concerns from a thematic or country-specific point of view on behalf of the Human Rights Council. CHR is one of the government institutions visited by the special rapporteur to assess the current state of the Philippines’ compliance to its human rights obligations, particularly within the context of freedom of opinion and expression. Representatives f rom civil society organizations and private companies also took part in separate engagements with Khan as arranged by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, alongside field visits in Baguio and Cebu. The findings of the Special Rapporteur based on her meeting with the CHR would be part of her final report to be presented at the 59th Session of the UN Human Rights Council in June 2025.
Farmers group challenges Recto to address agriculture import woes By Othel V. Campos and Maricel V. Cruz
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HE Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) challenged newly appointed Finance Secretary Ralph Recto to decisively address the unabated and worsening undervaluation and misclassification of imports of agricultural commodities. “Tariff losses from rice imports are only the tip of the iceberg. The situation with imports of pork, chicken, corn, and vegetables is much worse. If Secretary Recto really wants to generate more revenues for the government without imposing new taxes, he does not have to look far,” FFF president Raul Montemayor said Wednesday. The FFF noted that 90 percent of the
total volume of rice imported in 2023 was undervalued, with almost half undervalued by 20 percent or more. About 3.582 million tons of rice were imported in 2023, of which 83 percent was sourced from Vietnam. Less than 4 percent of total imports came from non-ASEAN countries, validating claims that the reduction in tariffs on non-ASEAN rice imports has not succeeded in
diversifying the country’s sources of rice, FFF noted. The group lamented the continued failure of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to curb the undervaluation of rice imports, which has resulted in billions of pesos of foregone tariff revenues that could have been used by the government to assist rice farmers. An analysis of BOC data revealed that costs for imported rice, excluding tariffs, averaged only P24.12 per kilogram (kg) in 2023, 22 percent lower than the BoC’s reference price of P30.78/kg. FFF said. Montemayor stressed that an additional P2.34 per kilo in tariffs could have been collected by the BoC if there was no undervaluation. “The total revenue loss in 2023 alone was almost P7.5 billion from the 3.2 million tons of imports for which the
BoC maintained reference prices. If we go back to 2019 when the Rice Tariffication Law or RTL was enacted, the accumulated foregone tariffs due to undervaluation would reach almost P25 billion,” he added. Rep. Wilbert Lee of AGRI party-list meanwhile cited the need for the government to tighten the implementation of laws against overfishing to increase the country’s fish stock. The Philippine Statistics Authority earlier reported a 5.2 percent decrease in the fisheries production in the country for the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to the year before. Lee said the decline in fisheries production “is certainly very concerning considering that we are an archipelagic country with one of the longest coastlines in the world.”
MMDA: Traffic czar not needed to tackle congestion in metro By Joel Zurbano
READY FOR THE ROAD. A mechanic in Quezon City inspects a modernized jeepney imported from China that will be distributed in the local market for P2.4 million to P2.5 million. The government said it is keeping the electric vehicle market open to speed up modernization. Manny Palmero
THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Wednesday said there is no need to appoint a traffic czar to address road congestion in Metro Manila, citing ongoing government efforts. The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) claimed that Metro Manila has a traffic crisis, listed as among the worst-traffic areas in 2023. MAP suggested that a traffic czar should be appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and given full powers to mobilize, direct, and deploy government resources to ease traffic in the metropolis. But MMDA general manager Procopio Lipana rejected this, saying the gov-
ernment is already making continuous efforts to mitigate traffic problems and there is no need to appoint a traffic czar. “The main problem is our infrastructure because we really have a lack of road network when compared to the number of vehicles,” he said in an interview with ABS-CBN Teleradyo. “The infrastructure project of the government is massive. There is the Skyway, Subway, and rail system. The MRT-7 is about to be completed. With those projects, when they are finished, it will be a big relief,” he added. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has stated that Metro Manila’s traffic congestion costs the Philippine economy billions of pesos daily.
Padilla urges government to fight for country’s rights to Sabah By Macon Ramos-Araneta AMID the government’s efforts to assert the Philippines’ rights over its territory in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), it must do the same for Sabah, Sen. Robinhood Padilla said. Padilla, in his interpellation of the bill on the proposed Philippine Maritime Zones Act, said Sabah has many natural
resources that can be used by Filipinos, especially those in Muslim Mindanao. “We must fight for our rights in Sabah. We are talking not of small islands but of a large land mass with oil and minerals that we Filipinos have rights to. If we can assert our rights in the West Philippine Sea, so must we do the same but in a peaceful manner,” he said. He said that the Philippines al-
Israel ‘open’ to negotiations with Hamas, says envoy to PH By Rey E. Requejo ISRAEL is ready to cooperate for talks that may lead to a ceasefire in its war with Hamas “as long as the Israeli security is protected,” Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss said on Wednesday. Fluss said while Israel is now more open to negotiations compared to the early days of the war, the country’s goals remain the same. Fluss said their war objectives include the release of all hostages by Hamas and the eradication of
Hamas and all its facilities. “The war is imposed on us. We need to protect our citizens,” Fluss stressed. Last weekend, intelligence officials from the US, Israel, and Egypt engaged in talks that could finally secure a truce in the war that started on Oct. 7. Qatar, also one of the negotiators, said there was “good progress” in the negotiations, while Israel said they were “constructive.” “What would be the political outcome of this war is too early for us to say,” Fluss added.
ready has a law - Republic Act 5446, signed in August 1968 - that regards Sabah as a territory over which the Philippines has acquired “dominion and sovereignty.” In his first privilege speech in 2022, Padilla pushed for the Philippines to assert its rights over Sabah. Padilla said he intends to propose an amendment to the definition of
baselines under the Maritime Zones bill, to include the Philippines’ position on Sabah which was provided for under RA 5446. Sen. Francis Tolentino, who sponsored the bill for the proposed Philippine Maritime Zones Act, agreed to include a line that the Philippines is not abandoning its claim to Sabah, so long as it is phrased properly.
FREEDOM.
Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. (2nd from right), Acosta (right) led the distribution of the certificates of discharge from prison, grooming kits, and gratuity and transportation allowances to 632 former inmates at the National Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City on Jan. 30. Joseph Muego
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OPINION
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
mst.daydesk@gmail.com HONOR BLANCO CABIE, Editor
Citizen Barok
Louis ‘Barok’ Biraogo
Remulla in the ICC’s enigmatic gaze IN THE twisted legal saga that unfolds on the Philippine stage, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla emerges as the man of the hour, battling for the nation’s sovereignty against the International Criminal Court’s scrutiny into the deadly war on drugs during President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. This legal drama unfolds as Remulla grapples with legal intricacies to ensure the rights of his countrymen are preserved. Remulla, the unyielding advocate, lays out his stance with a firm resolve. “We’re not here to stop them because if they’re not doing anything illegal, there’s nothing wrong with that,” he asserts in an interview with Kyodo News. The justice secretary’s willingness to cooperate, contingent on adherence to legal procedures, sets the stage for a legal showdown where the intricacies of the law become the battleground.
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The legal battleground becomes the arena where Remulla, armed with legal acumen, defends the rights and dignity of the Filipino people
The ICC’s investigation into Duterte’s anti-narcotics campaign, shrouded in allegations of human rights violations and thousands of casualties, becomes the focal point of this legal thriller. Remulla, donning the armor of a legal master, acknowledges the legitimacy of the ICC’s pursuit of evidence. “If they’re getting statements, they’re getting evidence. It’s okay,” he concedes, adding, “But we have to clarify many issues, especially about procedure.” The plot thickens as Remulla confronts the complex issue of the Philippines’ withdrawal from the ICC in March 2019, initiated by the Duterte administration. The government’s objection to the ICC’s jurisdiction, based on its non-membership
status since 2019, becomes a central legal argument. The ICC, however, claims jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed during the Philippines’ membership from November 2011, setting the stage for Remulla’s legal maneuvering. As Remulla navigates the maze of legal implications, he hints at a potential climax in the Supreme Court. “We will have to deal with several legal implications of the action of the ICC in the Philippines, and it might have to end up in the Supreme Court of the country,” he declares, emphasizing the importance of procedural adherence to protect the rights of the Filipino people. The all-star cast includes President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who succeeds Duterte and stands opposed to the ICC investigation. Marcos argues for the capability of local authorities to conduct any probe, hinting at a potential reevaluation of the Philippines’ membership in the ICC. The plot thickens as the nation grapples with the shifting tides of leadership and legal intricacies. In this legal thriller, Remulla emerges not just as a defender of the nation’s autonomy but also as a guardian of procedural justice. The intricate dance between international law and national sovereignty unfolds as Remulla stands resolute against the ICC’s gaze. The legal battleground becomes the arena where Remulla, armed with legal acumen, defends the rights and dignity of the Filipino people. As Filipinos witness this legal odyssey, they should appreciate Remulla’s efforts in navigating the complexities of international law while safeguarding the nation’s autonomy. Remulla’s call for procedural clarity ensures that the rights of the people are respected, a crucial element in this legal drama. In the face of external scrutiny, Remulla emerges as a symbol of legal fortitude, determined to uphold justice and defend the Philippines against perceived threats. In the eerie corridors of legal ambiguity, Remulla shines as an illuminant of resilience, ready to face whatever legal challenges may come. The Filipino people, in turn, should recognize the significance of his role in this legal drama, appreciating the delicate balance he maintains between national sovereignty and international accountability.
Myanmar junta takes heavy hits three years after coup BANGKOK – One morning last October as the dawn light touched the cold hills of northern Myanmar a barrage of rockets and drones streaked through the sky and slammed into dugouts and bases housing military troops. The fiery spectacle was repeated across a hundred-kilometer stretch of Shan state, heralding the launch of an offensive by an ethnic minority alliance that has left the ruling junta battered and its opponents daring to believe it can be toppled. The Arakan Army (AA), Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) and the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) had largely stayed out of the conflict raging between Myanmar’s junta and opponents of the coup it launched three years ago on Thursday. But with the military stretched thin struggling to crush dozens of pro-democracy armed groups, the so-called “Brotherhood Alliance” saw a chance to renew its decades-old war with the military and seize territory and resources. Screened by waves of commercial drones modified to hit junta positions with crude “drop bombs” its battle-hardened fighters swiftly overran dozens of military positions and took control of lucrative border crossings to China. Over the following weeks “Operation 1027” -- named for its starting date -- went from victory to victory, with the normally reclusive rebels broadcasting their hauls of captured weapons, ammunition and prisoners. The chief of the military promised a counterattack, then a few days later the junta-backed president warned Myanmar was at risk of “breaking up.” Under the pressure of “Operation 1027,” hairline cracks have appeared in the onceunassailable facade of the military that has ruled Myanmar for much of its 70-plus years of independence. Troops have surrendered in their thousands, whole units have fled into India and China and the military’s supporters have aired rare public criticism of its top leadership. The setbacks in Shan have also galvanized pro-democracy groups to renew their own attacks on the military elsewhere in
the country. “The junta has never been weaker,” Htwe Htwe Thein of Curtin University in Australia told AFP. “It now seems possible that the army... can suffer a series of significant defeats,” she said. Scam city A ceasefire brokered earlier this month by junta ally China has largely halted the fighting in Shan state -- although clashes continue elsewhere -- and left the alliance free to consolidate its gains.
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Fighting has continued in western Rakhine state, where the Arakan Army claims it has seized a port town and several positions near the India border
The jewel in the crown is the town of Laukkai, a few kilometers from the China border, home to around 25,000 people and a rich vein of vice, prostitution and drug trafficking. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing made a name for himself in Laukkai in 2009 when, as a regional commander, he expelled the MNDAA and installed a pro-military militia to run the town. Around 2,000 troops surrendered when the MNDAA re-captured the town earlier this month, sparking howls of protest on pro-military social media at one of the gravest defeats the military has suffered in decades. The six brigadier-generals who led the capitulation are now facing the death penalty. Fighting has continued in western Ra-
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EDITORIAL
‘Bagong Pilipinas’ campaign
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S EXPECTED, the Marcos administration’s launch of its Bagong Pilipinas campaign at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila last Sunday was well-attended, with a huge crowd of over 400,000 from Metro Manila and outlying provinces.
burden that is heavier than what people “We will meet our greatest obligation can carry,” he told the huge crowd. to our youth, to mold them into critical The President also vowed to fight cor- thinkers, problem-solvers, and brave viruption and extravagant spending in gov- sionaries for their country,” he added. ernment. Aside from addressing the needs of young people, Marcos also promised to assist the country’s farmers and fisherfolk. Amid the looming El Niño phenomenon, government will extend agriMore public gatherings culturaltheprograms and support to Filipino such as this are needed farmers to protect their livelihood. At the same time, the President promto give the national ised to boost the defense of the people and leadership a platform communities against calamities through the provision of additional resources. to directly talk to the Other key government officials spoke people and explain at the rally. Among them were Department of Into them what the terior and Local Government Secretary government wants to Benjamin Abalos Jr., who told the crowd that the Bagong Pilipinas campaign seeks achieve in the years to bring public services closer to the Filiahead pino people. The agency, he said, is working closely with the Department of Information and Communications Technology and the Anti-Red Tape Authority for the digitaliUnder the reform campaign, he ex- zation of their services. plained, abuses and government excesses More public gatherings such as this will not be tolerated as government work- are needed to give the national leadership ers and officials are servants of the peo- a platform to directly talk to the people ple, not their masters. and explain to them what the government The government will prioritize the wants to achieve in the years ahead. welfare of the Filipino youth under BaThe success of government programs gong Pilipinas, the President declared, hinges, after all, on broad public support thus giving due recognition to the role of and the active participation of the people young people as future nation-builders. in implementing them.
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According to its organizers, the Bagong Pilipinas campaign is the overarching theme of the administration’s brand of governance and leadership, characterized by a principled, accountable, and dependable government reinforced by unified institutions of society. It encourages every Filipino to see beyond differences and work harmoniously to build a nation that shapes a more promising future for its citizens. Underscoring the important role of the government to attain national development, President Marcos Jr. vowed to make the government more responsive to people’s needs, and urged government officials and personnel to help his administration carry out the much- needed reforms in the bureaucracy. “For this I pledge, government will neither ask the people for sacrifices it will not exact first upon itself, nor impose a
Duty Calls
Florencio Fianza
Lutong macao
AFTER 89 years of relative quiet, many are now doubting the integrity of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes lottery draws. One Congressman, in fact, went as far as demanding the resignation of the PCSO General Manager due to what he termed as “improbable and doubtful winnings.” Jokes are now swirling whether PCSO draws are real or simply “lutong macao.” This is not the first time the charity agency received a lot of flak with regard to its draws. In 2022, about 433 bettors all guessed the same winning numbers. What is the probability of 433 people guessing the same six-number combination? It is probably incalculable. But for one reason or another, the PCSO never gave a satisfactory answer and the issue soon disappeared from the news. That should have been fully investigated to clear any suspicions that PCSO lottery draws can be rigged. With all the current hullabaloo, it is perhaps a good time to revisit the issue of trust and the integrity of our lottery draws. A lottery is supposed to be a game of chance which means that winning cannot be predetermined. The PCSO for its part has always maintained the draws are beyond reproach. But why the lingering suspicions? Could the PCSO draws be manipulated given that the numbers are written on ping pong balls which are randomly sucked by air? Is it possible, for instance, to put six tampered ping pong balls which are lighter or heavier in weights that will make the sucking instrument pick the six lighter or heavier ping pong balls? Could the air pressure be controlled? Are all the ping pong balls being used in the draws weighed every time there is a
That was the question raised by many when that 2022 draw took place wherein 433 people guessed the six winning numbers. One explanation by the PCSO at that time was a possible betting machine glitches. But is that possible for so many machines scattered in different places? Another issue being raised by some lawmakers is the frequency of someone winning. Given the odds of winning and all, someone seems to be winning all the time. For the grand lotto, the odds of winning is something like one is to 28,000,000.
For the ultra-lotto which has 58 numbers, the odds is one is to 40,475,358. So, winning should not be so easy to allow the price money to roll over longer to become bigger. But this is not the case because someone very “lucky” is always winning which is stretching incredulity. If there is anything positive about the PCSO Senate hearing, it is that the public is beginning to know how the charity agency divides the betting money. How much, for instance, does the PCSO keep for charity and how much goes back for lottery prices. We are now learning the PCSO is making tons of money and had it not been for these suspicions of irregular lottery draws, the public would not have known all these. Clearly, the PCSO needs to be more transparent. But in spite of the number of games being drawn, the PCSO thinks that more games are needed because it just added the e-lotto with a seed price of P500 million which was predictably won easily after getting to only P680 million. In fact, all the games wherein the PCSO added P500 million were all won in no time at all. Yet, the e-lotto was launched anyway with only the word of the PCSO that the draws cannot be hacked. That does not give us much confidence. So, after everything is said and done, could the PCSO lottery draws be rigged? Unfortunately, I do not have the answer and I doubt whether the Senate can arrive at one. Inviting Senators to watch the draws will also not prove anything. But if there are no changes and more transparency, these suspicions will linger and the draws will continue to be viewed by many as “lutong macao.”
khine state, where the AA claims it has seized a port town and several positions near the India border. Last week a transport plane sent to India to bring home dozens of soldiers who had fled there to escape clashes with the AA overshot the runway and crashed, injuring several crew members. The cascade of setbacks has dented morale among low and mid-level officers, according to several military sources contacted by AFP, all of whom requested anonymity. Earlier this month that dissatisfaction was given a public airing at a military rally in the former British hill station of Pyin Oo Lwin, home to the military’s elite officer training academy. At an open square in the town a monk addressed a crowd of more than 100 peo-
ple and called for Min Aung Hlaing to step down in a speech widely shared on pro-military social media. ‘Don’t deserve to live’ It is unclear if the “Brotherhood Alliance” will throw its weight behind the larger democracy struggle in Myanmar. The TNLA did not respond to questions on whether it still had military objectives outside of its claimed territory in Shan state. A source close to the MNDAA said the group was working to install a new administration in Laukkai, without giving details. Analysts say it is too early to predict the fall of the junta or a change of top leadership. But they warn such extensive battlefield losses are uncharted territory for the generals, whose likely response will be to unleash more violence upon a country ravaged by
three years of war. “Terror and extreme violence, rape and torture, domicide, and pillage are longstanding military operational doctrines,” independent Myanmar analyst David Mathieson told AFP. “The SAC (the State Administration Council, as the junta calls itself) believes that consistency in atrocity and heavy firepower will ensure regime survival.” In the hills of northern Shan state last month, “Sugar,” a fighter with the pro-democracy Mandalay People’s Defence said he was up for the fight. “I have fought in more than 16 battles and faced countless air strikes,” he told AFP from his trench, a few kilometres from a junta position, asking to use a pseudonym. “For me, military soldiers are creatures that don’t deserve to live on our Earth.” AFP
Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Anita F. Grefal Baldwin R. Felipe Edgar M. Valmorida
draw to make sure they all have the same weights? Maybe the manipulation could be in the betting machines. But these machines would have been long switched off when the draw takes place.
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If there is anything positive about the PCSO Senate hearing, it is that the public is beginning to know how the charity agency divides the betting money
Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Treasury Manager Head—Ad Solutions Circulation Manager
Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher Chin Wong Joyce Pangco Pañares Jimbo Owen Gulle
Associate Editor Managing Editor News Editor
Emil P. Jurado
Honor Blanco Cabie Opinion Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer
Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board
WORLD
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
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Israel floods Hamas tunnels as UN pleads for aid funding P
ALESTINIAN Territories—Israel’s army has begun flooding Hamas’s network of tunnels as intense Standard TODAY rages in Gaza, with the UN warning of the fighting potential “collapse of the humanitarian system” in the territory after a funding row hit its Palestinian aid agency. Manila
The epicentere of the fighting in recent weeks has been Khan Yunis, southern Gaza’s main city, where vast areas have been reduced to a muddy wasteland of bombed-out buildings, and where an AFP journalist witnessed people leaving town on Tuesday as explosions sounded nearby.
“We left the Nasser hospital without any mattresses, under tank and air strikes. We didn’t know where to go,” said one young woman. “We’re out in the cold, left to fend for ourselves, with no tents and nothing to survive on.” Elsewhere in the city, Israeli troops
gave journalists a tour of a tunnel they said had been used as a Hamas command center. “Every war has its own characteristics, and I think that this war, its basic character is about that over- and underground maneuver,” Dan Goldfus, commander of the 98th Paratroopers Division, told reporters outside of the shaft. “I think the enemy is on the run and is trying to put itself under the civilians as much as it can,” he added. The Israeli military, which has dubbed the vast network of tunnels “the Gaza metro”, said Tuesday that it had begun flooding the underground
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC FOR UPGRADING OF BUSINESS COMPANY NAME This is to inform the public that MJCG CONST. INC. upgraded it’s company business name to MJCG CONTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT CORP. as per approved SEC Company Registration No. CS201103212 dated September 14, 2023. JOB VACANCY:
2 Pearl Farm Technician
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FRE-MC24-1749 EXTRA-JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE OF REAL ESTATE MORTGAGE UNDER ACT 3135 AS AMENDED BY ACT 4118
SPOUSES KAYE ANN ROCES CASILANG and ARVIN GAASIS CASILANG and SPOUSES ELIZABETH DELA CRUZ ROCES and AVELINO LUSTADO ROCES, Debtors/Mortgagors. x-------------------------------------------------------x
NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE Upon Extra-Judicial petition for sale under Act 3135 as amended by Act 4118 filed by BDO UNIBANK, INC., Mortgagee, against SPOUSES KAYE ANN ROCES CASILANG and ARVIN GAASIS CASILANG and SPOUSES ELIZABETH DELA CRUZ ROCES and AVELINO LUSTADO ROCES, with postal address/ es at: (1) Unit 2903, Tower 2, Light Residences, EDSA corner Madison St., Barangay Barangka Ilaya, Mandaluyong City and (2) 339 A and V Subdivision, Barangay Panginay, Balagtas Bulacan 3016, to secure the payment and all other obligation which as of December 27, 2023, amounts to SEVEN MILLION TWO HUNDRED NINETEEN THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED EIGHTY SIX PESOS & 98/100 (Php 7,219,786.98) ONLY, Philippine Currency, including interest, penalties and expenses incidental thereto (Subject Obligation), the Ex-Officio Sheriff of Mandaluyong City or his duly authorized deputy will sell at PUBIC AUCTION to the HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH OR MANAGER’S CHECK and in Philippine Currency on the 1st day of March 2024 at 9:00 o’clock in the morning or soon thereafter but not later than 12:00 o’clock in the afternoon at the main entrance of Mandaluyong City Hall, Maysilo Circle, Mandaluyong City, the Condominium unit together with all the improvements existing thereon to wit: CONDOMINIUM CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. -008-2019007854Registry of Deeds – City of Mandaluyong IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the unit identified and described as: TOWER UNIT UNIT TYPE TOTAL AREA
: : : :
TOWER 2 2903 1-BEDROOM UNIT W/BALCONY 27.74
OF THE “LIGHT RESIDENCES” CONDOMINIUM PROJECT In the diagrammatic floor plan appended to the enabling or master deed of the condominium project annotated on TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE 2014 000439; 24843 which embraces and describes the land located at MANDALUYONG CITY with an area of NINETEEN THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED TWENTY TWO SQUARE METERS AND FIFTY SQUARE DECIMETERS (19,422.50) Square Meter more or less xxxxx “ All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above stated time and date.” “In the event the public auction should not take place on the said dater, it shall be held on March 8, 2024 at the same time and place without further notice.” Prospective bidders or buyers are hereby enjoined to investigate for themselves the title of the said real property and the encumbrances thereon, if any there be. Mandaluyong City, Philippines, January 27, 2024. FOR THE EX-OFFICIO SHERIFF By: (Sgd.) LUCY LILIBETH A. ALCABA Sheriff IV Copy furnished: BDO UNIBANK, INC. RISK MANAGEMENT GROUP-REMEDIAL MANAGEMENT UNIT 11th Floor, BDO Towers Valero (formerly Citibank Tower), 8741 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City SPS. KAYE ANN R. CASILANG and ARVIN G. CASILANG, SPS. ELIZABETH D. ROCES and AVELINO L. ROCES Unit 2903 Tower 2, Light Residences, EDSA cor. Madison St., Brgy. Barangka Ilaya, Mandaluyong City / #339 A & V Subdivision, Barangay Panginay, Balagtas, Bulacan 3016 WARNING: It is absolutely prohibited to remove, deface or destroy this Notice of Sheriff’s Sale on or before the date of Auction Sale under Penalty of the law. (MStandard - Feb. 1, 8 & 15, 2024)
Pakistan ex-PM Khan, wife get 14 years in jail
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan—Former Pakistan prime minister Imran MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK complexes with water in a bidCYAN to Khan was sentenced Wednesday to “neutralize the threat of Hamas’ 14 years in jail on a graft charge, subterranean network.” a day after he was given a 10-year The war was touched off by prison term in verdicts handed Hamas’s Oct. 7 attacks on Israel, down just a week before national which resulted in the deaths of around elections. 1,140 people, mostly civilians, Khan and his wife were found according to an AFP tally based on guilty of graft in a case involving official Israeli figures. gifts he received while premier, afAbout 250 foreign and Israeli hostages ter he was Tuesday handed 10 years in a case related to leaking state sewere also dragged to Gaza during the crets. Oct. 7 attack, of whom around 132 are Pakistan goes to the polls next still there. Thursday in a ballot already marred That figure includes the bodies of at by allegations of rigging, with least 28 people believed to have been Khan barred from running and his killed. AFP Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party subject to a massive crackdown. BREATHING “Another sad day in our judicial SPACE. Women system history, which is being disstand by clothes mantled,” a party spokesman told media. drying on a laundry It was not immediately clear if line outside Khan’s sentences were to run cona Palestinian secutively or concurrently followoutpost painted in ing a trial held inside the jail where camouflage colors he has been detained for much of where they are the time since his arrest in August. taking refuge near a make-shift shelter But his lawyer, Salman Safdar, for Palestinians who confirmed to AFP he had been senfled to Rafah in the tenced alongside his wife, Bushra southern Gaza Strip Bibi, who had been on remand on Tuesday amid throughout the trial. the ongoing conflict Intazar Hussain Panjutha, one of between Israel and Khan’s legal team, said Bibi had the Palestinian surrendered herself to authorities. militant group Bibi, a faith healer who met Hamas. AFP Khan when he approached her for spiritual guidance, rarely appears in public and only wearing a facecovering hijab when she does. The pair married in 2018, months before Khan was elected prime minister. About 127 million Pakistanis are eligible to vote next Thursday, with Khan and his PTI at the centre of debate despite being squeezed out of the limelight. AFP
Biden says he’s decided on response to Yemen’s Huthi’s drone strike JUPITER—US President Joe Biden said Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila) he had decided on a response to a drone strike that killed three American troops in Jordan, while insisting he did not want a wider war in the Middle East. Facing growing pressure in a US election year, Biden said he held Iran responsible for supplying the weapons to the people who carried out the deadly attack on a military base. The White House warned that “multiple actions” were likely in retaliation for the first fatal attack on US forces in
the region since the Israel-Hamas war broke out in October. A leading pro-Iranian group in Iraq said Tuesday that it would halt attacks on US forces as military action loomed, but there was no sign it would be enough to stop Washington retaliating. “Yes,” Biden told reporters as he headed for campaign fundraisers in Florida when asked if he had decided on his response, but he did not give details. “I don’t think we need a wider war in the Middle East. That’s not what I’m
looking for,” he added. In Sanaa, Yemen’s Huthi rebels fired “several” missiles at a US warship in the Red Sea, they said on Wednesday, hours after the US military reported shooting down a missile. “The naval forces of the Yemeni Armed Forces, with the help of God Almighty, fired several... naval missiles at the American destroyer USS Gravely in the Red Sea,” the Huthi statement said. Earlier, US Central Command said the USS Gravely shot down a Huthi missile at about 11:30 pm on Tuesday
-- the latest in a series of such incidents in the Red Sea. “Iranian-backed Huthi militants fired one anti-ship cruise missile from Huthi-controlled areas of Yemen toward the Red Sea,” a Centcom statement said. “The missile was shot down by USS Gravely. There were no injuries or damage reported.” The Huthis, part of the anti-Western, anti-Israel “axis of resistance” of Iranianbacked groups, have been harassing Red Sea shipping for months, triggering US and British reprisal attacks. AFP
Taiwan warns against China flight path change that runs through Strait TAIPEI—Taiwan condemned on Wednesday China’s decision to adjust an aviation route that runs through the Taiwan Strait, warning the change could impact stability in the sensitive waterway. The Taiwanese defence ministry’s statement came a day after China’s civil aviation authority said it was introducing changes to flights headed southwards along the M503 route starting from Feb. 1. The Chinese authority said the move was aimed at improving efficiency in a congested area. However, Taiwan’s defense ministry branded the adjustment as “unilateral and arbitrary”. The move, it warned, could “lead to an escalation in tensions”, urging
Beijing to “immediately” reverse the decision. Transport Minister Wang Kwotsai also warned the route runs close to Taipei’s flight information region -- just 4.2 nautical miles at its nearest point. “When the weather is bad, (a plane) might fly east and this could clash with our civil and military aircraft,” he told reporters. Route M503 had sparked an outcry in Taiwan when China launched it in 2015, given its proximity to the median line that runs through the Taiwan Strait. China, which claims self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and does not recognize the median line, on Wednesday reiterated its position. AFP
NEW SECURITY LAW. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee (center), Secretary for Justice Paul Lam (left) and Secretary for Security Chris Tang (right) hold a press conference at government headquarters in Hong Kong on Tuesday after Hong Kong formally began the process of enacting a controversial homegrown national security law in a move that could have deep ramifications for the city’s status as a global financial hub. AFP
South Korea president warns Pyongyang will meddle in April election with drone attacks SEOUL—South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said Wednesday the North’s “irrational” regime was likely to carry out multiple provocations, including cyberattacks and drone intrusions, ahead of the South’s April election. In recent weeks, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has declared Seoul his country’s “principal enemy”, jettisoned agencies dedicated to reunification and outreach, and threatened war over “even 0.001 mm” of territorial infringement. Kim has also ramped up weapons testing, including this week’s launch of a flurry of cruise missiles, which
analysts said the North could be supplying to Russia for use in Ukraine. South Korea is gearing up for a crucial election on April 10, with hawkish Yoon—who came to office in 2022 vowing to get tough on Pyongyang—and his party aiming to regain a parliamentary majority for the first time since 2016. “The North Korean regime is the only irrational group in the world that has legislated the preemptive use of nuclear weapons,” Yoon said during an annual defense council meeting, which was attended by members of the public, representatives of the
country’s police and spy agencies, and other officials. Yoon said that “multiple” provocations by the North were expected ahead of the April general elections. “This year, we are expecting multiple provocations for election intervention such as border provocations, drone intrusions, fake news, cyberattacks and rear disturbances,” he said. “Cyberattacks can paralyse national functions and people’s daily lives in an instant. Also, society can fall into great confusion due to fake news and false propaganda,” he added.
According to Seoul, Tokyo and Washington, Pyongyang has supported its banned weapons programmes in part by gathering information through “malicious cyber activities.” North Korea has a long track record of provocations ahead of South Korean elections, experts say -- part of its broader strategy to cause disruption south of the border. In December, Seoul’s spy agency issued a statement forecasting that Pyongyang would carry out military and cyber provocations in 2024, targeting election campaigns in the United States and South Korea. AFP
BUSINESS
B3 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
extrastory2000@gmail.com
PH stocks rise as traders view below target GDP ‘positively’
SOLAR DONATION. Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), marketer of the Caltex brand of fuels and lubricants, donates P1.2 million to Tahanang Walang Hagdanan Inc. (TWHI) and SasonbiSolar for solar power system installation in TWHI to generate savings from electricity bills which will go towards projects that help benefit persons with disabilities. Signing the deed of donation are (from left) Angelita Evangelista, TWHI executive vice president; Felix Gonzalez Jr., TWHI president and chief executive; Raissa Bautista, Chevron Philippines Inc. head of corporate affairs; Dante Briones, Sasonbi Inc. chief executive and president; and Ricky Jacinto, renewable energy and ESG advocate.
PHILIPPINES stocks advanced Wednesday even as the 2023 gross domestic product (GDP) growth fell below the government’s target. The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index traded above 6,700 at mid-day before closing at 6,646.44, up 24.43 points, or 0.37 percent, from previous day’s finish. The broader allshares index picked up 11.78 points, or 0.34 percent, to finish at 3,499.49. China Bank Capital managing director Juan Paolo Colet said the investors still welcomed the 5.6-percent growth for 2023 as this signals that the economy remains strong. “Although this was below the government’s target of at least 6-percent, the market viewed the data positively as this was not only above the median estimate of many economists, but also showed that the Philippines was the fastest-growing economy among
ASEAN countries that have published their respective GDP data to date,” Colet said. Value turnover reached P6.3 billion. The peso also climbed to 56.275 against the US dollar Wednesday from 56.401 Tuesday. Meanwhile, Asian equities were mixed Wednesday after a tepid performance on Wall Street, with traders keenly awaiting what the Federal Reserve has to say after its much-anticipated policy meeting later in the day. A key Treasury auction, US jobs figures and earnings from some of the world’s biggest companies including Apple and Amazon were also in view this week. That all comes while the crisis surrounding China’s fallen property titan Evergrande casts a shadow and stokes worries about the world’s number two economy. Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP
SEC gets Recto’s support for market reforms By Jenniffer B. Austria
T
HE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said it obtained Finance Secretary Ralph Recto’s support in pushing for business and capital market reforms. The SEC said Recto, in briefing at the SEC headquarters in Makati City on Jan. 30, commended its digitalization initiatives, which contributed in improving ease of doing business and fostering capital market development in the country. Recto also assured the SEC of the Department of Finance’s staunch support for ongoing and future
initiatives to further digitalize and adopt advanced technologies to make company registration and regulatory compliance more convenient and efficient. SEC chairperson Emilio Aquino presented the agency’s priority plans, activities and programs to Recto during the briefing. Recto also supported the SEC
Finance Secretary Ralph Recto and SEC chairperson Emilio Aquino
in implementing reforms to make the Philippine capital market more accessible to both issuers and investors, intensify financial consumer protection through enhanced supervision and regulation of the financial system, advance financial literacy and promote sustainability practices. He also urged the SEC to work with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to streamline and improve the efficiency of data sharing between the two agencies, as part of efforts to enhance tax collection efficiency. The SEC and the BIR have data sharing agreements covering financial, beneficial ownership and other information concerning
corporations, as part of efforts to tackle tax evasion and money laundering, among others. “As we push for the development of the capital market and the business sector, we will also closely work together with the BIR and other government agencies in improving tax administration and implementing other reforms to ensure inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” Aquino said. The SEC also committed to working more closely with other government agencies in advancing other programs and initiatives aimed at sustaining the Philippine economy’s growth, including the improvement of tax administration.
Regulators should clamp down on marketing e-cigarettes in PH —“— Out in the Open Ray S. Eñano
SELLING vapes and other forms of electronic cigarettes to the youth without the prescribed health warning, as mandated by health authorities, is a crime and smacks of corporate greed. The World Health Organization has already noted in an earlier warning that e-cigarettes, which pose serious health risks, are being “aggressively marketed” to young people, and decried the absence of rules in place in large parts of the world to protect children from their harmful effects. WHO’s notice should not be ignored. It found out that 88 countries have no minimum age at which e-cigarettes can be bought and 74 countries have not implemented any e-cigarette regulations. The world health body has also warned that the tobacco industry “funds and promotes false evidence” in their argument that e-cigarettes reduce harm, while at the same time “heavily promoting these products to children and non-smokers and continuing to sell billions of cigarettes.” Here in the Philippines, a major importer of e-cigarettes is being accused of several violations, including the sale and marketing of products and variants not duly registered with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). Flava Corp. is feeling the heat from lawmakers, who earlier conducted an investigation on its alleged illegal importation and misdeclaration of its products’ nicotine content. Flava’s alleged disregard of the law does not end with tax evasion and its reported illegal trade practices. Social media reports indicate that Flava has committed violations against the other provisions of RA 11900, particularly in terms of marketing, distribution, point-ofsale and flavoring. The law, among others, regulate the sale, packaging, use and communication of vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products. Posters and invitations to events sponsored by Flava’s products do not contain the prescribed health warning and provide for no age requirement for participation. Probers also bared social media posts with claims about being the “trendsetter” in the disposable market vaping industry―which is tantamount to depiction of vaping as a lifestyle. In addition, the company is active in sponsoring music festivals that are open to minors. Such practices have prompted WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to call on countries to ramp up prevention measures, saying that “kids are being recruited and trapped at an early age to use e-cigarettes and may get hooked to nicotine.”
Selling and promoting them to minors without the prescribed health warning is equally irresponsible.
Children aged 13 to 15 worldwide are using e-cigarettes at rates higher than adults, WHO research has found. The number of young users in the United Kingdom has tripled in the past three years. Flava, in the meantime, has to face other government investigations. Per the Bureau of Customs report, the agency confiscated a total of 1.4 million pieces of illegally imported vape products of Flava. Rep. Joey Salceda and Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, during a December 12, 2023 hearing, inquired from the BOC and BIR about Flava’s capability to import. Upon submission of findings by the two agencies, it was discovered that Flava was a registered importer. However, the company has no products or brands registered for importation. Thus, the 1.4 million confiscated vape products were imported illegally to the country. The company’s action qualifies as an illicit trade, a bane among our tax collectors. The illegal trade deprives the government of billion pesos worth of revenues and finds ways to circumvent product standards. The illegal trade continues to pose challenges to the government. As an archipelago with porous borders that encourage smuggling, the Philippines is at the receiving end of illicit trade. Mr. Salceda in a House report correctly points out the evils of illicit trade and its adverse impact on government social services and the whole business community. “Eighty percent of revenues from vape sin taxes are spent towards universal health care and government hospitals. So, the health impacts of smoking vape aside, tax evasion in this product, is stealing from our hospitals and our sick,” he says. The growing popularity of vapor nicotine and nonnicotine products, or e-cigarettes, has apparently emboldened sellers and manufacturers to resort to the illegal practice. Selling and promoting them to minors without the prescribed health warning is equally irresponsible. According to the UN health agency, the illegal promotion has resulted in increased use of e-cigarettes, with nine out of 10 smokers starting before the age of 18―and some as early as 11. “Considering that children spend nearly one-third of their waking hours in school, and much of the peer pressure they encounter occurs within these educational environments, schools play a pivotal role,” WHO said. E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com
CONSUMER ADVOCATES. Youth convenor Francine Pradez and the representative
of Batangas convenor Arven Bravo lead the launch of ILAW, an energy organization that seeks to give consumers a strong voice on electricity issues in the country in a news conference on Jan. 31 at Roxas Boulevard, Manila.
Therma Visayas’ 150-MW Cebu coal plant excluded from moratorium—DOE By Alena Mae S. Flores THE Department of Energy (DOE) said Wednesday said Therma Visayas Inc.’s planned 150-megawatt coal expansion in Toledo, Cebu is exempted from the coal moratorium imposed in 2020. It said that item 2(b) of the coal moratorium policy exempts existing power plant complexes which already have firm expansion plans and existing land site provision. “The DOE verified that the TVI’s 150MW Unit 3 expansion project is covered by the said provision. The project is part of the expansion of the existing circulating fluidized bed coal plant (units 1 and 2) of
TVI in Toledo City,” the agency said. It endorsed TVI’s 150 MW expansion to the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines for a system impact study. TVI’s parent firm Aboitiz Power Corp. wants to pursue the expansion to address the growing demand for power in Cebu. Aboitiz Power president and chief executive Emmanuel Rubio said last year the proposed expansion was excluded from the coal ban and has an existing environmental compliance certificate. Rubio said they were weighing their options whether to pursue the coal plant or put up a 150-MW liquefied natural gas plant in Cebu as they would have different costs and financing options.
Concepcion Industrial’s income rose 86% in 2023 CONCEPCION Industrial Corp. (CIC), a local air-conditioning and refrigeration appliance manufacturer, saw its net income rise 86 percent in 2023 to P667.8 million from a year ago on the back of a double-digit growth in sales. CIC said in a stock exchange filing Wednesday net sales expanded 11-percent year-on-year to P14.7 billion. The group’s net sales posted 15-percent growth to P18.2 billion, including its associate Concepcion Midea Inc. “CIC has shown time and again our ability to overcome challenges as our resilient business allows us to adapt quickly and pivot when the situation calls for it,” said CIC chairman and president Raul Joseph Concepcion.
“As we reflect on our achievements in 2023, we look ahead with optimism, ready to welcome opportunities and face the challenges of 2024. CIC is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities, and our commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence remains firm,” he said. CIC’s commercial business generated P1.4 billion in net sales, a 33-percent growth compared to last year. The increase was attributable to higher sales of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment as well as the timely arrival of elevator equipment and significant progress in both air conditioning and elevator projects. Jenniffer B. Austria
BUSINESS
B4
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor
ICTSI’s investment to transform Iloilo port, fuel growth—Drilon INTERNATIONAL Container Terminal Services Inc.’s (ICTSI) investment in the Iloilo Commercial Port Complex (ICPC) will reinvigorate the economy and establish Iloilo as an international gateway, said former Senate President Franklin Drilon, a strong advocate or the privatization of the project. Drilon said the privatization would see about P1.1 billion in investment within the first two years, and more is expected as cargo volume increases. “With the substantial investment that ICTSI is poised to inject, we are now on the path to realizing our shared aspiration of restoring Iloilo to its former stature as an international gateway, as it was at the turn of the 20th Century when Iloilo was dubbed as the ‘Queen City of the South,’” Drilon said.
“I am glad that ICTSI has finally been awarded the 25-year concession as the port operator. Ricky Razon and ICTSI deserve special recognition for their significant investment and unwavering confidence in Iloilo. ICTSI is a true partner in moving Iloilo forward,” Drilon said. Drilon, who has played a pivotal role in the development and growth of Iloilo, said the condition of the port was a significant impediment to progress, and this partnership with ICTSI could be a game-changer. “The condition of our ports has been a stumbling block for our development. Iloilo had endured neglect during the past administration, resulting in a lack of capacity and inefficient operations that deterred shipping companies from using Iloilo as a port of call,” Drilon said.
NEW ECONOMIC ZONES. Philippine Economic Zone Authority director-general Tereso Panga (second from left) and Bureau of Corrections director-general Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. (third from left) sign a memorandum of understanding for the establishment of ecozones in portions of land under BuCor at the PEZA Auditorium in Pasay City on Jan. 30, 2024. With them are Justice Undersecretary Deo Marco (right) and PEZA deputy director-general for policy and planning Maria Veronica Magsino. Joseph Muego
PCC clears $1.8-b Aboitiz-Coca Cola deal BSP sees January inflation settling T within target range By Jenniffer B. Austria
HE Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) said Wednesday it approved Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc. (AEV) and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners PLC’s $1.8 billion acquisition of Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc. (CCBPI), the exclusive bottler and distributor of Coca-Cola products in the country.
AEV and CCEP said they received the ment’s anti-trust body on Jan. 30, 2024 to certificate of approval from the govern- proceed with the acquisition of CCBPI.
Both parties signed in August 2023 a non-binding letter of intent to acquire The Coca-Cola Company’s 100-percent stake in CCBP, which has an enterprise value of $1.8 billion on a debt-free and cash-free basis. Under the agreement, AEV will hold a 40-percent beneficial ownership in CCBPI, while CCEP will have the remaining 60-percent stake. The final cash consideration will be subject to cash, debt-like items and working capital adjustments at completion of the transaction.
PLDT investing P2.11b for 34.9% stake in Meralco’s Radius Telecoms PLDT Inc. said Wednesday it plans to invest P2.1 billion in Radius Telecoms Inc., a telecommunications company with a strong fiber network infrastructure to strengthen its market position and increase its market share in the Philippines. The company’s strategic investment will see PLDT acquire 2.49 million shares, or 34.9-percent equity shares in Radius, bolstering its fiber network reach and unlocking potential synergies between the two firms. It said the indicative purchase price is subject to due diligence and execution of definitive agreements. “The proposed Investment is a strategic move to fortify PLDT’s market position and increase its market share through a harmonious integration of solution capabilities and market coverage by capitalizing on Radius’ 100-percent fiber facilities that span 150 enterprise buildings, 200+ residential multi-dwelling units and 200+ villages,” PLDT said.
AEV said the acquisition would support its portfolio diversification strategy to enter the branded consumer goods space. “AEV is well positioned to support CCBPI’s growth ambition due to the synergies which could be generated from AEV’s other business interests in the country,” it said. It is one of the most diversified conglomerates in the country with interests in power generation, financial services, real estate development, infrastructure, food, data science and artificial intelligence.
SM’S AWARDS.
SM Investments Corp. president and chief executive Frederic DyBuncio thanks the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Philippines for SM’s 20 wins in the recently held 20th Philippine Quill Awards. The SM Group, led by SM Investments Corp., with BDO Unibank Inc., SM Foundation Inc. and SM Supermalls, won 20 awards for excellence in communications. SM Foundation Inc. was also recognized as the 2nd runner up for Company of the Year.
Radius holds a congressional telecommunications franchise to construct, install, establish, operate and maintain for commercial purposes and in the public interest, the business of providing basic and enhanced telecommunications services in the Philippines, and between the Philippines and other countries and territories. Radius is 100-percent owned by Paragon Vertical Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of e-Meralco Ventures Inc., which is also wholly-owned by Manila Electric Company. “By leveraging on the existing infrastructure and co-building in key areas, both PLDT and Radius stand to gain cost efficiencies,” PLDT said. “This potential partnership will strengthen the market presence of PLDT and Radius and unlock synergies in solution capabilities and network coverage to better serve and improve quality of service to PLDT and Radius customers across the country,” it said. Darwin G. Amojelar
DOE issues circular adopting new rules on downstream natural gas industry By Alena Mae S. Flores THE Department of Energy (DOE) said Wednesday it adopted the amended rules and regulations governing the downstream natural gas (DNG) industry. It issued Department Circular DC 2024-01-0007 signed by Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla on Jan. 12, 2024 prescribing the requirements for the issuance of permits to operators for the construction of DNG facilities. The circular aims to provide a
conducive environment for the development of the DNG industry and promote financial liability by liberalizing the entry of investors and encourage access to capital and off-taker market under a transparent, competitive and fair trade system. It seeks to ensure the transparent pricing of natural gas and rates for its importation, storage, regasification, transmission and distribution. The DOE said the procurement, delivery and pricing of natural gas from im-
portation and from indigenous production should be transparent, competitive and secure. It said DNG facilities may be designed and constructed to accommodate indigenous gas, imported liquefied natural gas or both. The circular said the DOE should support the optimal supply and use of natural gas, especially indigenous sources, including, as may be necessary, the priority dispatch or sourcing of indigenous natural gas.
The DOE may also mandate the blending or aggregation of imported LNG and indigenous natural gas and/ or enforce the priority source of indigenous gas for power generation. It said the entire capacity of a DNG facility may be offered to third party. The negotiated third party access refers to a commercial arrangement which allows the operator and a third-party enduser or affiliate to agree and execute negotiated terms and conditions for the use of the DNG capacity.
Prime Infra unit opens country’s first automated materials recovery facility
Executives of Prime Integrated Waste Solutions Inc. (PWS) lead the inauguration of the company’s first automated materials recovery facility (MRF) in Cebu that uses state-of-the-art equipment for waste segregation and storage—a first in the Philippines.
PRIME Integrated Waste Solutions Inc. (PWS), a wholly owned subsidiary of Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc., inaugurated on Jan. 29 the country’s first materials recovery facility (MRF) in Cebu that uses state-of-the-art equipment for waste segregation and storage. PWS was established in response to the increasing demand for proper waste management and resource recovery solutions in industrialized and fastgrowing cities in the Philippines. PWS’ model is based on Prime Infra’s overall objective to convert recovered resources into sustainable fuels. “I need not tell you how groundbreaking this is because this is in fact the first in the country,” said Department of Environment and Natural Resources Sec-
retary Ma. Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga. “Efforts like this that make our job possible…The first thing we need to do in this country is regard the solid waste management sector as an industry and for that, it needs to realize the efficiencies according to scale. Investments will not make sense without all the moving parts put on the table and that includes local governance, environmental management; that includes private investment with government and aligned with government in addressing these particular issues,” she said. The DENR secretary also lauded PWS for the “social impact of this transition in solid waste management technology” by incorporating the informal waste picker sector into the process.
By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Wednesday it expects January 2024 inflation to settle within a range of 2.8 percent to 3.6 percent. The forecast is within the bank’s 2024 target band of 2 percent to 4 percent. The Philippine Statistics Authority will release the official inflation report next week. “Higher prices of some agricultural items, like rice, meat, fruits and fish, along with increased petroleum prices, electricity and water rates, annual adjustment in sin taxes and the depreciation of the peso are the primary sources of upward price pressures for the month,” the BSP said. Lower prices of vegetables and sugar could contribute to downward price pressures, it said. “Going forward, the BSP will continue to monitor developments affecting the outlook for inflation and growth in line with its data-dependent approach to monetary policy decision-making,” the BSP said. The Philippine Statistics Authority earlier reported that inflation settled at 3.9 percent in December, lower than the 4.1 percent in November and 8.1 percent in December in 2022. It was also the lowest since it settled at 3.0 percent in February 2022.
DBM, COA issue revised manual on gov’t asset sale THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Commission on Audit (COA) on Wednesday issued a joint circular adopting the revised manual on the disposal of government properties. The revised manual seeks to update the National Budget Circular (NBC) No. 425 dated Jan. 28, 1992 to guide the agencies concerned in their disposal undertakings. “A lot of our rules and regulations, circulars and memoranda were done from way back. I think, with the changing times, with the modern times, it’s just but wise for us to also evolve and try to cope with what’s happening around us,” DBM Secretary Mina Pangandaman said. Among the salient features of the revised manual is the determination of its coverage and scope of implementation, which will cover all government properties that are movable or personal, purchased, owned or otherwise acquired including those donated to, stocked and used by the government in its operations, excluding real properties, public records, and imported properties consigned to the government. It also identifies the duties and responsibilities of accountable personnel and the procedures and methods in the conduct of disposal. The revised manual also includes the constitution of a disposal committee, composed of a chairperson and its members and sets the conditions of properties for disposal, and the various modes of disposal. Darwin G. Amojelar
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SPORTS
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
Mr. Basketball Fajardo named PBA’s Player of the Week JUNE Mar Fajardo continues to tower above the entire San Miguel Beer team. The seven-time MVP averaged in double-double to guide the Beermen to the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals following a 3-0 sweep of Barangay Ginebra in their semifinals series. Fajardo had 11 points and 10 rebounds in the series-clinching 94-91 win fashioned out before a large crowd of 15,126 at the Mall of Asia Arena last Sunday. Consistency has been the name of the game for the 6-foot-10 center for the entire best-of-five series where he’s the only San Miguel local to average in double-doubles of 15.3 points and 11 rebounds per game, aside from turning in 3.7 blocks including a high of five blocks in a 106-96 Game 2 win. Fajardo, who was recently honored as Mr. Basketball in the Philippine Sportswriters Association Awards Night, also shot 61.5 percent from the field, while holding his own against leading Best Player of the Conference candidate Christian Standhardinger in the marquee match-up between the two big men. Coming off a fractured left hand injury, Fajardo successfully made his way back to San Miguel’s scheme of things that earned him his very first PBA Press Corps-Pilipinas Live Player of the Week this season. San Miguel Beer teammate CJ Perez crowded out Fajardo for the weekly honor covering the period Jan. 24-27. Perez emerged a close second behind Fajardo following the voting made by the group of men and women who cover the PBA beat. The 30-year-old Perez averaged 18.0 points on a high 50 percent shooting from beyond the arc, while also submitting numbers of 7.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 1.7 steals as he teamed up with Fajardo a nd the rest of the Beermen in dethroning Barangay Ginebra. The win was the ninth straight for the Beermen including eight since Fajardo returned to injury and put them in a perfect position as they vie for their 29th PBA championship.
San Miguel Beer’s Junemar Fajardo (center) is joined by (from left) his Gilas Pilipinas mentor Tim Cone, POC president Abraham Tolentino, PSC chairman Richard Bachmann and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al S. Panlilio at the PSA Awards Night, where the 6’10” center was named Mr. Basketball.
Gilas center Sotto bulking up for tougher FIBA grind ahead By Randy Caluag
F
ILIPINO center Kai Sotto is diligently honing his skills and physique, while actively playing in the Japanese B.League, with the Yokohama B-Corsairs, even as he is looking forward to upcoming challenges in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers, set to kick off in February. Working under the guidance of renowned strength coach Mel Lantin, the 7’3” Sotto is committed to enhance his strength, quickness, and overall performance and achieve an optimal weight to fortify his presence in the paint. In a recent Facebook post, coach Lantin shared images of Sotto engaging in various exercises designed to enhance what is known as SAQ (speed, agility, and quickness) in sports science.
According to Manila Standard source, the training regimen pays a meticulous attention to Sotto’s nutrition, strategically aiming to bulk him up in anticipation of the rigorous competitions ahead. Sotto was among the 12 players selected by newly appointed Gilas Pilipinas mentor Tim Cone. The elite roster is set to represent the Philippines in the opening window of the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers this February. The line-up also included familiar faces such as Dwight Ramos, June Mar Fajardo, Scottie Thompson, Chris Newsome, Calvin Oftana, CJ Perez, Jamie Malonzo, AJ Edu, Carl Tamayo, and Kevin Quiambao. Having joined forces with Lantin in August last year at the Fit Twenty One fitness gym in Las Pinas City, Sotto’s dedication to conditioning was evident even before his stint with Gilas in the 2023 FIBA World Cup. Lantin, a respected figure in conditioning, has previously worked with diverse athletes, including rising boxing star Carl Jammes Martin and the UP Junior Maroons’ basketball team. He also handled teams from Perpetual Help Altas, De La Salle University, Far Eastern University, and Ateneo de Manila University in the UAAP.
SBP exec Dy bats for more cage meets Tolentino breaks PH mark in hunt for Olympic quota seat for women THERE is a need to come up with more local 3x3 basketball competitions for women. Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas executive director Erika Dy stressed the importance of putting up as many domestic leagues as possible right before the start of Manila Hustle 3x3, which is in its second season. “It’s very important. Even before we go to international meets, we need to provide our clubs with local tournaments,” said Dy. The Gilas Pilipinas Women, previously known as the Lady MacBeth Riots when they won the crown last year, will be back with Camille Clarin, Mikka Cacho, Tin Cayabyab and new player Monique del Carmen. There will be other local teams seeded with national players. This includes Uratex Dream, with Kaye Pingol in the roster, along with Chinese reinforcement Renzhu Li. “These domestic tournaments will help them continue to operate as a club. Otherwise, they will just to international tournaments, once or twice a year,” added Dy. Uratex Tibay will have Afril Bernardino and Spanish dazzler Ari Geli, while the Titans will be buoyed by Thai star Supavadee Kunchuan playing with national cagers Jhazmin Joso and Katrina Guytingco. The other local clubs are Discovery Perlas, Bluefire LPG, and Army Altama. Last year’s semifinalist Dinoman Hansol of Korea will be around with Kim Dunarang as the skipper. They will be among the favorites with Japanese teams Tokyo Dime, Owls.EXE, and Zoos Tokyo of world no. 25 Aoi Katsura. There’s also the Shoot It Dragons of Thailand and Jumpshot of Singapore, while Korean team Unicle, Royals Basketball of Australia, and Shiv Nadar School of India are playing for the first time. Peter Atencio
By Peter Atencio
JOHN Cabang Tolentino, who recently smashed the existing national record in the indoor 60-meter hurdles’ event, will have a chance to continue pursuing his elusive dream of qualifying in the Paris Olympics. Tolentino will join another Olympic hopeful in Janry Ubas in the 11th Asian Indoor Athletic Championships in Tehran, Iran, slated on February 17 to 19. Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association secretary general Jasper Tanhueco said this is one of the competitions which will get Tolentino and Ubas ready for the coming outdoor season and the quali-
fication process for the Olympics. “We are looking for competitions for them. Both will compete and are currently in a good position to qualify on the road to Paris especially Janry. So let’s hope they will have a good performance this competition,” said Tanhueco, who spoke of Tolentino’s good chances during the recent 2023 Philippine Sportswriters’ Awards Night. The 22-year-old, Spain-based Tolentino showed the good shape that he is in when he eclipsed the Philippine record in the Euskadi Indoor meet in San Sebastian. Tolentino won the gold medal 7.73 seconds, which was better than the 7.86 seconds of Eric Cray in the Cherry and Silver meet in Albuquerque back in 2014. During that meet, Tolentino fin-
Kai Sotto deep in training
John Cabang Tolentino
ished ahead of Oscar Urdanoz (8.18) and Daniel San Juan (8.19). Over the weekend, on Jan. 27, Tolentino won the gold in the Astana Indoor meet in Kazakhstan with a time of 7.99 meters, some 2/10ths of second short of the Philippine mark he shattered two weeks ago. He is within the quota ranking of possible Olympic qualifiers at no. 31 out of a possible 40 who can make the cut to the Paris Games after joining 12 competitions, including the Southeast Asian Games and Asian Games. Joining these meets have earned Tolentino a total of 1199 points, and a world ranking of 58. For Tolentino to make it to the Paris, he has to stay within the quota ranking of 40 until July, or hit the entry standard of 13.27 seconds.
Baby Falcons advance to cage finals
Adamson’s Vince Reyes
ADAMSON University pulled off an 80-66 win over University of Santo Tomas to advance to the Finals of the UAAP Season 86 high school boys’ basketball tournament Wednesday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre. Vince Reyes logged a doubledouble of 23 points and 11 rebounds and had two steals and two blocks, Mark Esperanza had 12 points and eight assists while Justine Garcia was also solid for the Baby Falcons with 11 points, six assists, and four steals. Adamson coach Mike Fermin wanted his troops to address its first half problems in the championship round. “Parang naulit ‘yung game namin against NU, nanggigigil noong first half. Sabl ko, hindi naman nat-
ing kailangang talunin ng first half because it is a 40-minute game or extra,” said Fermin after the San Marcelino-based squad reached the Finals for the second straight year. “Constant reminders ko sa kanila, stay within the game plan. Noong second half nagising naman sila kaya hats off again sa mga players,” he added. It was the Tiger Cubs who dealt their only loss of the season and Reyes was simply glad that the Baby Falcons hurdled another stumbling block to achieve their ultimate goal. “Talagang naniwala na lang kami sa mga sarili namin, nagtulungan naman kami,” said Reyes, a Grade 12 senior. Adamson will play the winner of the other Final Four between Nation-
al University Nazareth School and Far Eastern University-Diliman. After a scoreless first half, Wacky Ludovice exploded for 19 points but his effort was not enough to extend UST’s campaign. The Tiger Cubs ended their first season under coach Manu Iñigo in fourth place. The Scores: AdU (80) – Reyes 23, Esperanza 12, Garcia 11, Medina 11, Bonzalida 6, Abayon 5, Carillo 4, Tumaneng 4, Umali 2, De Jesus 2, Sajili 0. UST (66) – Ludovice 19, Dungo 17, Buenaflor 8, Ronquillo 7, Manding 6, Bucsit 6, Esteban 3, Lim 0, Verzosa 0, Reyes 0, Velasquez 0, Loreto 0. Quarterscores: 23-17, 37-27, 61-50, 80-66
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SPORTS
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
Slasher Cup draws world’s best breeders
SPECIAL CITATION: Standard Insurance Centennial V lady sailor Alysa Belmonte (4th from right) received a citation trophy during the San Miguel Corp.-Philippine Sportswriters Association Awards Night at the Diamond Hotel last Monday. The allFilipino sailing team, include the Richly Magsanay, boat owner and Standard Insurance chairman Ernesto “Judes” Echauz, Stephen Tan, Rubin Cruz, Ridgely Balladares, Joel Mejarito, Bernard Floren and Louie Perfectua.
By Peter Atencio
RSA pays tribute to PH athletes, says Paris breakthrough possible L ONGTIME sports patron Ramon S. Ang believes the country is geared to win more golds in the coming Paris Olympics as he paid tribute to all Filipino athletes, particularly those who were honored during the recent Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Awards.
Ramon S. Ang
Ang, San Miguel Corporation (SMC) President and Chief Executive Officer, received his second PSA Executive of the Year award and this time, he shared it with Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) Chairman and President Manny V. Pangilinan as their partnership paved the way for the Asiad basketball gold. He said the upcoming OIympiad will mark the 100th year of Philippines’ participation as the country looks to replicate the feat of gold-winning weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz in the Tokyo Games. “Everything is possible when all the country’s stakeholders work together. It was just three years ago when Hidilyn
Diaz shone in Tokyo for our first gold in the Olympics. And just last year, we grabbed the Asian Games gold in basketball that eluded us for 60 years. So I think another breakthrough is possible,” Ang said. “That gold medal was the result of the hard work and effort of not just the players and coaching staff, but most especially, MVP himself. The Gilas Pilipinas program is really his brainchild, and without his vision, commitment, and patriotism to see the program through all these years, we probably would not have a champion Gilas team,” Ang said. “We are proud to have been given the
opportunity to be part of it, and we thank MVP for lifting Philippine basketball to greater heights,” he added. At the invitation of Pangilinan, Ang supported the country’s successful cohosting of the FIBA Basketball World Cup, when Philippine team shared the spotlight with the world’s best basketball teams. “I thank the PSA for the honor and dedicate it to the Gilas Pilipinas team who worked so hard to bring home the gold medal in the face of tough odds,” Ang, who was first conferred with the PSA Executive of the Year Award in 2017, said. He added: “ I hope the amazing feat of Philippine basketball team will also inspire our athletes to go for more gold medals in Paris.” Olympian and pole vaulter EJ Obiena led those who were feted during the annual awards conducted by the country’s oldest sportswriting organization.
Malixi, 5 other Pinays launch bid in Asia-Pacific golf RIANNE Malixi sets out in a highly anticipated showdown with world No. 4 Minsol Kim of South Korea and India’s Queen Sirikit Cup titleholder Avani Prashanth, aiming for a strong start in the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific Championship Thursday in Pattaya, Thailand. They slug it out at 8:03 a.m. at the backside of the par-72 layout in one of the top match-ups in the opener of the sixth edition of the 72-hole championship, which also features Thai defending champion Eila Galitsky, Japan’s Mamika Shinchi and Rin Yoshida, Korea’s Eunseo Choi, Aussies Caitlin Peirce and Justice Bosio. The ICTSI-backed Malixi tied for third in the 2022 edition of this event won by Taiwanese Ting-Hsuan Huang at the Siam Country Club’s Waterside course, which is again hosting this year’s championship. Galitsky kicks off her title-retention drive at 12:03 p.m. on No. 1 against Korean Soomin Oh and Hinano Muguruma of Japan, while Shinchi, winner of the recent Australian Amateur, seeks back-to-back title romp against Taiwanese Huai-Chien Hsu and Bosio. Other Filipina entries are Anya Cedo, Alethea Gaccion, Nicole Abelar, Junia Gabasa and Grace Quintanilla. Cedo drew an early tee-time at 7:41 a.m. on No. 1 with India’s Heena Kang and Thai Navaporn Soon-
treeyapas, while Gaccion, a grand finalist in the inaugural Junior Philippine Golf Tour last year, also tees off on the first hole in an 8:03 a.m. flight with Hong Kong’s Siuue Wu and Mannat Brar, also from India. Abelar clashes with Thai Suvichaya Vinijchaitham and Sania Wahyudi of Indonesia at 11:30 a.m. on No. 10; Gabasa also starts at the backside against Kiwi Mimi Guo and Singapore’s Xingtong Chen at 12:03 p.m.; while Quintanilla hopes to buck the odds in the 12:25 p.m. flight that includes Daniah Syed of Pakistan and Jillian Kuk of Singapore on No. 10. But all eyes will be on Malixi, who scored a breakthrough win in the Australian Master of the Amateurs Championship last month. The 16-year-old shotmaker also rallied to tie for eighth in the Australian Amateur. So much is at stake in the championship, which drew 90 players from 22 countries and territories, with the winner to receive invitations to play in three major championships – the Women’s Open, the Evian Championship and the Chevron Championship. Also up for grabs are berths in elite championships such as the Hana Financial Group Championship, the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open, the 121st Women’s Amateur Championship and the Augusta National Women’s Amateur.
Rianne Malixi
Sarmiento, Quinones top Nationall Table Tennis tilt
TATAND honorary president Charlie Lim (2nd from right) and Philippine cadet top player Khevine Kheith Cruz present a souvenir jersey from Chawi Sports apparel at the 5th FESSAP National Age-Group Championship award ceremony.
NATIONAL pool members Cate Jazztyne Sarmiento and Kyle Quinones led the young achievers in the 5th FESSAP National AgeGroup Table Tennis Championship over the weekend at the Ayala Malls Cloverleaf Wellness Center in Quezon City. The 18-year-old Sarmiento, the pride of Lipa City, beat rival Ashley Allorde of PCAF to be crowned queen in the 19-under women’s class the tournament organized by former national champion and coach Julius Esposo, in collaboration with Chawi Sports Center and Federation of School Sports Association of the Philippines (FESSAP). Quinones of Adamson University won the crown in the men’s 19-under class by defeating Sean Arvin Garcia in the tournament that was also supported by Chawi Sports Apparel, Joola Philippines, Mr. Philip Uy, Totopol Fishbroker, Vision Quest Optical Clinic, and Besttank. “We are committed to support events like the 5th FESSAP National Age-Group Championship and other grassroots programs that promote the development of table tennis at a
national level,” said Charlie Lim, honorary president of the Table Tennis Association for National Development (TATAND). “These events are not only about competition but also serve as a reunion for our community. It is an opportunity for all of us to come together, share our love for the sport, and celebrate our achievements. As we gather to compete, let us not forget that the true essence of these events lies in the joy of playing and the spirit of sportsmanship,” he said. In other results, Zane Patricia F. Cabalu of Cabalu Table Tennis Training Center won the 9-under Girls; Titus Alexander Pachica of Team PROTTEC took home the 9-under boys title; Liu Shiwen Garcia of Bulacan led the 11-under (girls); wag one 11-under (boys) Gabriel Noche of Bulacan; Ma. Mikaela Jopillo of Bulacan dominated the 13-under (girls); Prince Achilles Troy “AKI” D. Maminta of Spin Master Table Tennis Urdaneta claimed the boys 13-under and the 16-under class; while Farhana A. Abdul (Ue/Triple Arrow Chanel Team) won the 16-under girls.
TOP breeders from the United States and the Visayas region will be among those seeking out the biggest prizes at stake in the “Olympics of Cockfighting” as the 2024 World Slasher Cup reeled off on Monday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, Quezon City. A big turnout of around 200 participants has excited the organizers in the event regarded as the Holy Grail of cockfighting. “Magandang turnout ito,” said chief organizer Dong Lamoste during Saturday’s launch at the Gloria Maris Restaurant inside the Gateway Mall in Cubao, Quezon City, Top breeders, led by the Hawaii group of Mike For mosa, are in town, together with a Nathan Jumper’s group from Mississippi. The weeklong tournament will draw all the major players in cockfighting, including Northern Samar’s Don Destura. Their entries are expected to fight it out until the finale on Feb. 4. The participants plunge into a twoday elimination, followed by the semifinals on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1. After a break on Feb. 2, the matches will resume in the Pre-Finals on Feb. 3, and the much-awaited Grand Finals on Feb. 4. Last season, two were hailed as champions in Jose Panganiban Jr.’s Infiniti Gold 6-Cock Derby June 21 Manila Arena-2 and partners Pablito Gregore and Dennis Lumpay’s 22GF/ Ormoc Joe with identical 7.5 points. The co-winners were Tata Gov/ Tata Rey, Fiscal Moises Villanueva, Eddie Gonzales, Jon Jon Cano, Frank/Guam Boys/Joey Melendres, and Nene Araneta, who accumulated seven points each while Bebot Uy and Patrick Antonio listed 6.5 points while Daday Siochi/Raymond Dela Cruz’s Old Model/SN.
Cosca, Mercado lead chase as Fr. Suarez Cup gets underway DARWIN Cosca Jr. and Chloe Mercado brace for spirited battle against a field of talented emerging stars as the Fr. Fernando Suarez M-Cup National Juniors Tennis Championships kicks off Thursday in Biñan, Laguna. Presented by Rep. Len-Len AlonteNaguiat and Dunlop, the Group 2 tournament features over 250 entries vying for top honors and ranking points, utilizing three courts at the South City Recreational Tennis Center, the Southville and the Filinvest courts. Costa and Mercado gain the top seedings in the premier 18-and-under division with the boys’ roster also drawing such talents as Ariel Cabaral, siblings Frank and France Dilao, Al Tristan Licayan, Gerard Manigque, Lervin Cunanan and Nathan Andal. On the girls’ side, Mercado, looking for redemption after a recent finals defeat to Mica Emana in last week’s Valle Verde meet, leads the charge, alongside Sandra Bautista, Ronielle Oliveros and Erynne Ong, in the event dedicated to the late healing priest, who was a tennis enthusiast and supporter. Nearly all of the nine age-group categories, including 16-, 14-, 12-and-U and 10-unisex, have drawn full-packed rosters of 32 players, highlighting the enthusiastic response of young players from the host city and nearby towns and provinces. The event, supported by Slazenger and which also features the boys’ and girls’ doubles competition, falls under the Palawan Pawnshop junior program, led by president/CEO Bobby Castro, offering Philta ranking points. Event organizer Bobby Mangunay emphasized the support from the new sets of officers of Philta (Philippine Tennis Association), headed by president and Parañaque City Mayor Eric Olivarez. This support encompasses various tournaments nationwide, such as the recently-concluded Kasadyahan Festival in Iloilo and the Valle Verde Country Club championships.
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SHOWBIZ
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
Cup of Joe in concert at New Frontier Theater
OPM band Cup of Joe is popularly known for its chart-topping single ‘Tingin’
TODAY’S hottest and trending band, Cup of Joe, will be staging a live concert at the New Frontier Theater in Araneta City, Cubao, Quezon City on Feb. 9 and 10. Titled Seatbelts On!, the show will feature vocalists Gian Bernardino and Raphaell Ridao, keyboardist Xen Gareza, lead guitarist Gab Fernandez, bassist Sevii Severino, and guitarist CJ Fernandez performing all the songs that gained them millions of streams, views, and followers not
only here in the Philippines but also in other countries. The band is set to perform its chart-topping single “Tingin,” along with the enchanting collaboration with Janine Teñoso. Discover why the group has over four million monthly listeners on Spotify as audiences track down their road to success with past hits like “Estranghero” (over 41 million streams), “Ikaw Pa Rin Ang Pipiliin Ko” (26 million), “Mananatili” (12 million), “Patutunguhan” (9
million), “Sinderela” (13 million), “Bukod Tangi” (10 million), “Tataya” (7 million), and others available on the Viva Music label. Cup of Joe was born when its members decided to record a song that would serve as a souvenir of their senior year in high school, anticipating that they would not be seeing each other often in college. That song was “Nag-iisang Muli,” which, to the band’s surprise, was named Best Regional Song at the MOR Music Awards in 2019.
Although all members are now busy with college studies, they continue recording their own music and creating hits. Tickets for the Seatbelts On! concert are priced as follows: SVIP with Meet and Greet and Soundcheck at P5200; VIP with Soundcheck at P3850; Orchestra at P2800; Loge at P1300; and Balcony at P700. Tickets are now available at ticketnet.com and at the Viva Live hotlines, (0955) 017-1799 and (02) 8687-5853 local 841.
Newest youth-oriented show tackles love and challenges faced California nursing school run by Filipino experts by ‘zoomers’ Touchbass
Yugel Losorata
THERE’S a new nursing school in the state of California being run by experts in the field who happened to be Filipinos. That is worth celebrating amid the need for nurses in the aftermath of a pandemic, and considering the estimable reputation of Filipino nurses and educators. Aberdeen Institute, located at the heart of San Fernando Valley, was launched last Jan. 13 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by key figures in the community. If you’re guessing that 13 must be a significant number and in no way unlucky for those behind the foundation of the school, your guess is right. There are 13 key individuals who have poured in their years of experience and proven expertise in the profession to put up Aberdeen Institute. Dr. Bernard Riccomini, director of nursing education programs, expressed high hopes in realizing the vision of the new school. He shared, “The community in San Fernando Valley is going to be affected in many ways with the unveiling of Aberdeen Institute. Our mission is to be able to ameliorate the gap of nursing shortage made worse by the pandemic.” The new nursing school had gotten the necessary approvals for it to formally open, as it targets to start classes by March. Dr. Riccomini noted that they are currently screening and selecting students, expecting to tap those qualified within the community or even in neighboring places, be they Filipinos or non-Filipinos. Interestingly, they have also been getting inquiries from the states of Arizona, Texas, and Nevada. The de facto leader of Aberdeen Institute’s Magic 13 shared that he handpicked each one of them by partly considering significant personal connections. “Being in the profession of nursing for 29 years, I have met a lot of wonderful teachers, friends, and colleagues “Dr. Riccomini said, “Several of them were my nursing student graduates. Dr. Em Garcia holds office in two different hospitals. A couple more are deans in colleges of nursing outside of Los Angeles. We’re a pretty solid team.” Part of the team’s dream is to be able to provide the future with nurses that are caring and compassionate, and molded through a good nursing school. The inaugural event’s success was also reflected during the networking sessions which organizers believe were “truly invaluable” and “will contribute greatly to the growth and development of Aberdeen Institute.” The power of personal connection among owners was further emphasized by the speech of Leila Villon who shared her thoughts over her involvement. She said, “The roots of my relationship with the visionary mind behind Aberdeen Institute go beyond the realm of professional collaboration. We are high school classmates, business partners, and, most importantly, long-time friends.” Aberdeen Institute has its facilities situated at 7136 Haskell Avenue in Van Nuys, California. It is being eyed as the first of many. The urbanized San Fernando Valley contains a large portion of Los Angeles, and is notable for having the film studios Warner Bros. and Walt Disney, as well as Universal Studios Hollywood theme park. Dr. Riccomini, who takes pride in being a traveler, having been to 130 cities in nearly 40 countries, revealed that he had Aberdeen Institute named after a city in Scotland known for its sandy coastline. The motto of that Scottish city is “Bon Accord,” meaning “good agreement.” There’s certainly a good one for the 13 fellows who came together to open Aberdeen Institute.
Thirteen individuals have poured in their years of experience and proven expertise in the profession to put up the nursing school
F
ORMER Goin Bulilit star Harvey Bautista and former PBB housemate Criza Taa clinched the lead roles of ABS-CBN Studios’ new youth-reality series Zoomers after undergoing a rigorous audition process and impressing three distinguished directors. Harvey and Criza were selected among 18 Gen Z artists by ABS-CBN Star Magic and TV production head Laurenti Dyogi, blockbuster film director Theodore Boborol, and He’s Into Her director Chad Vidanes. Joining them are former YeY star Luke Alford, commercial model Ralph de Leon, and dancer Krystl Ball, who also showed potential and charm to be part of the latest ABS-CBN Studios offering. The newest Kapamilya series revolves around the lives of senior high students Jiggs (Harvey),
The youth-oriented show features a new generation of actors and actresses
Hope (Criza), Kokoy (Luke), Tania (Krystl), and Atom (Ralph), who have forged a special bond of friendship during the pandemic. As they find their footing in this post-pandemic reality, witness how their friendship will be tested as they will be challenged by their own pains, struggles, and dreams. Former child star Harvey opened up about how important the series is to him. “Big deal ito para sa akin. Ito yung first project ko with a partner. M a y kaba konti
and excitement. It is something that I’ve been waiting for, and it is something that I’m thankful for. I want to make them proud. I want to make the bosses proud.” Criza, who was a part of the hit series Kadenang Ginto and He’s Into Her, is honored to play one of the main characters in the series. “This is my first lead role under Star Magic and ABS-CBN that they handle. It left a mark on me, and I’m so grateful and thankful that they entrusted me with this role. The number one thing I can promise is that I will give my 199 percent to my character. I will bring Hope to life.” Likewise, Luke, Ralph, and Krystl expressed their gratefulness for the opportunity to be part of a series tackling relevant social issues faced by their generation. Zoomers is directed by Chad Vidanes and is written by Charisse Bayona and Michael Transfiguracion. Also part of Zoomers are Luis Vera Perez, Kei Kurosawa, Erika Davis, Hadiyah Santos, and Zabel Lamberth. Zoomers airs weeknighht after Can’t Buy Me Love, 10:15 p.m. on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, A2Z, and TV5. Stream its full episodes on ABS-CBN Entertainment’s YouTube channel.
‘Zoomers’ lead stars Harvey Bautista (left) and Criza Taa
Broadway legend Chita Rivera dies CHITA Rivera, who electrified Broadway stages over six decades in shows including West Side Story and Chicago as one of the foremost entertainers of her generation, died Tuesday at 91, her publicist said. Rivera – a singer, dancer, and actress – died in New York after a “brief illness,” her daughter Lisa Mordente said in a statement released by publicist Merle Frimark. Trained in voice, piano, and ballet from a young age, Rivera was dancing on Broadway before she was 20 and kept at it all the way into her early ‘80s. Rivera became one of the most nominated actors in the history of the Tony Awards, Broadway’s highest prizes, with 10 nods. In 2002 she earned Kennedy Center honors – a top US arts distinction – and was feted at the White House in 2009 with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Sensual and with a brassy stage presence, Rivera
played some of Broadway’s most acclaimed roles and worked under legendary talents including Leonard Bernstein, Bob Fosse, Stephen Sondheim, and Jerome Robbins. She and fellow actress Rita Moreno paved the way for other stars of Puerto Rican descent, such as actor-songwriter-playwright Lin-Manuel Miranda of Hamilton fame, to conquer Broadway. “The trailblazer for PR on Broadway,” Miranda wrote of Rivera on Instagram Tuesday. “She IS magnificent, not ready for the past tense just yet.” Rivera earned the 1957 breakout role of Anita in West Side Story,, the 20th century American adaptation of the Shakespeare tale Romeo and Juliet,, which made her a star and earned her first Tony nomination. AFP Broadway performer Chita Rivera
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LIFE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
Rabiya’s crowning glory
H
By Nickie Wang
AIR health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and it holds particular significance for women. Beautiful, lustrous hair is often considered a symbol of health and vitality, contributing significantly to one’s overall appearance and self-esteem.
Research suggests that strong relationships contribute to overall health
Bye situationships? A loving partner can be good for your heart LOVE can spark joy in everyday moments, making even simple tasks feel special. In other words, love makes life sweeter. Rosario Soledad C. Neri-Velhagen, MD from the Section of Cardiology at the top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) reveals that science backs loving relationships as they can contribute to one’s heart health. “Research suggests that strong relationships, particularly in marriage, contribute to overall health,” explains Dr. Neri-Velhagen. The medical expert cited a 2017 study that found unmarried individuals with heart disease had a 52 higher likelihood of a heart attack or cardiovascular-related death over nearly four years compared to married counterparts with heart conditions. “Overall, data indicates a lower mortality rate for married individuals compared to those never married, divorced, or widowed,” she adds. According to Dr. Neri-Velhagen, how it works is that the feeling of being in love releases hormones such as oxytocin, which is released in response to hugging, kissing, and other forms of physical touch. Such hormones decrease stress levels and promote calm and relaxation. “When you’re relaxed, this helps the blood vessels dilate more and ultimately lower your blood pressure,”
shares Dr. Neri-Velhagen. “A decrease in blood pressure means less force is exerted on the walls of the arteries with each heartbeat, improving overall heart health.” Even just thinking of your partner helps says Dr. Neri-Velhagen. “Studies using imaging techniques reveal that looking at pictures of a romantic partner triggers the parts of the brain associated with mood and pain regulation,” she carries on. “The thought of one’s partner may enhance energy levels by improving blood glucose levels. Healthy blood glucose levels prevent damage to your blood vessels and the nerves that control your heart and blood vessels, decreasing the risk of heart disease over time.” Of course, the right partner might also encourage you to adopt healthier lifestyle habits. “Doctors can give all the advice they want but the truth is you’re more likely to listen to your spouse if they urge you to eat healthier and exercise more,” admits Dr. Neri-Velhagen. The next time you see your special person, don’t just thank them for their love, thank them too for giving you a healthier heart. And if you don’t have anyone just yet, be patient and wait for the right one – the one that won’t give you heartaches and heartbreaks. Your heart will thank you for it.
From left: Jan Navarro, Rabiya Mateo, Hairfix Managing Director Margaret Lee,
In a world that celebrates beauty, and Hairfix President Lawrence Lance Lee elegance, and intelligence, perfection is highly valued, especially in the Shanon Tampon showcase the Hairfix Multiplex Serum, a space where beauty queens excel. These queens promote daily vitamin complex. Together, these ambassadors represent positivity, women empowerment, confidence, and self- unstoppable Filipinas conquering the world with confidence. love globally, inspiring the next generation to thrive in an “Hair is more than a crown; it’s where confidence environment that seeks perfection. This is the essence of resides,” added Rabiya Mateo. “I do believe my crowning what our Filipina beauty queens embody. glory gives me the confidence to conquer life.” Let’s start Winning the crown requires not only maintaining the the new year with sleek, smooth hair, unlocking a new era physique but also giving extra care to their hair, which of beauty from the roots. Your crown tells your unique plays a silent yet crucial role in shaping their confidence. story, and Hairfix is here to help you express it boldly. A good and healthy hair day can instantly boost Hair plays a big factor in the pageantry world and the someone’s confidence, whether she’s conquering the world everyday life of a woman, not only is it our crowning or just facing everyday challenges. glory but it’s where our crowns sit and where “Taking care of the hair is a vital aspect of self-care, our confidence comes from. Just like what akin to our attention to skincare. It’s essential to Rabiya said, “I do believe my crowning allocate time to love and invest in our hair,” glory gives me the confidence to said actress and beauty queen Rabiya conquer life.” Mateo, who was recently introduced as “Let’s face it, good hair helps us Lifestrong Hairfix’s newest ambassador. face the world in a different view – Miss Universe Philippines 2020 fiercer, bolder, and with pride. No Rabiya, embodies the brand’s vision of matter who you are, where you empowering Filipinas to embrace their came from, or your achievements beauty. Known for her wit, charm, and in life, your hair defines who you cultural pride, Rabiya chooses Permanent are and how you love yourself,” Silvery Ash from Hairfix’s Hair Colors. she added. “It’s a color that boosts my And as the new year begins, confidence,” she said. Rabiya encourages women to Hairfix offers a complete DIY unlock a new era of beauty from solution with products covering the roots. Captivating them Hair Color, Styling, Care, and the with a sleek, smooth hair that Professional Line. This brand transpires to the story we aspire is dedicated to helping every to write this new chapter of Filipina achieve their hair goals “Your Crown, Your Story.” at home. Joining Rabiya are Actress and other Filipina beauties beauty queen like Miss World Rabiya Mateo Philippines 2021 embarks Tracy Maureen on a new a journey as Perez, who the new uses Hairfix’s face of Professional Line Lifestrong Collagen + Peptide, Hairfix and Miss Eco Teen Philippines 2023 Francine Reyes, who swears by the Professional Line Protein + Vitamin C variant. Reigning queens Michelle Arceo and
Leading health and beauty retailer expands in Power Plant Mall, Greenbelt 5 WATSONS, the country’s leading health, wellness, and beauty retailer, is redefining the retail experience with the opening of its Power Plant Mall and Greenbelt 5 stores on Jan. 18 and 19, respectively. Located strategically, these stores offer a seamless Online plus Offline (O+O) shopping experience, allowing
customers to engage with knowledgeable pharmacists, explore a wide range of health and beauty products, and effortlessly transition between in-store and online purchases using the Watsons App. Featuring renowned brands like Clinique, CosRx, Maybelline, and more, the stores aim to cater to wellness enthusiasts, beauty aficionados, and
those seeking the latest health products. Beyond product offerings, Watsons is committed to enhancing customer experiences with innovative features such as self-checkout
The new Watsons stores in Power Plant Mall and Greenbelt 5 are homes to big K beauty brands
Every branch has in-store kiosks that provide customers access to Watsons’ wide selection of health and wellness beauty essentials The newly-opened stores offer a seamless Online plus Offline (O+O) shopping experience, allowing customers to engage with knowledgeable pharmacists
counters and an O+O model that facilitates online shopping through the app or website. Additionally, the Power Plant Mall and Greenbelt stores house pharmacies manned by well-trained professionals, offering guidance on prescription details and recommending generic alternatives. The integration of e-commerce platforms allows for a diverse product selection with convenient options like Click & Collect and Express Delivery Service. “In response to customers’ desire for shorter wait times, we have introduced self-checkout stations. Additionally, we are streamlining prescription refills through our Watsons
Pharmacists. Our digital-forward Online plus Offline (O+O) model is designed to adapt to the evolving omnichannel shopping preferences of our customers. Simultaneously, we maintain our commitment to providing a contemporary perspective on health and wellness that aligns with their needs,” said Jared De Guzman, Customer Director of Watsons Philippines. As a member of Watsons Club, shoppers can enjoy exclusive benefits like special promotions, bigger discounts, and extra reward points. They can receive invites to exclusive events celebrating health, beauty, and wellness.