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Abolish NTF-ELCAC – UN’s Khan

NSC spox: Now’s not the time, agency may shift to peace mandate

VOL. XXXVII • NO. 354 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2024 •

Flood, landslides from torrential rains kill 6 in Davao Oro

CLOSING TALK. United Nations Special Rapporteur Irene Khan (left) talks to Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin as she wraps up her 10-day visit to the country on Friday. Malacañang on Friday vowed to boost its efforts to balance the rights to association and expression with the fundamental right to life. PCO Photo

By Rey E. Requejo, Vince Lopez, Charles Dantes and Macon Ramos-Araneta

V

ISITING United Nations Special Rapporteur Irene Khan on Friday called on the government to scrap the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) since the bases for its creation have already changed.

Khan also noted that freedom of expression has improved under the Marcos administration, as compared

to the time of former President Rodrigo Duterte, but added that much can still be done.

Next page

Diesel to lead 4th straight weekly hike in fuel prices by P1.70 a liter RAIN AND FLOOD WOES. In this aerial photo

provided by the Davao de Oro provincial government, soil erosion causes the concrete pavement to crack and erode part of the national highway at Km. 74, Purok 1B, in Barangay Sawangan, Mawab on Thursday morning. Meanwhile, residents push a makeshift raft loaded with a motorcycle through floodwaters brought about by heavy rains in Propseridad, Agusan del Sur (inset). Erwin Mascarinas/AFP

By Vince Lopez and Maricel V. Cruz

Rain began pounding wide areas of Mindanao last weekend, causingfloods and landslides that officials said sent thousands fleeing to emergency shelters.

FLOODS and landslides triggered by torThe National Disaster Risk Reduction rential rain killed six people across Mind- and Management Council (NDRRMC) anao, with one other person missing, res- said almost 100,000 residents were affectcuers said Thursday. ed by flooding and landslides triggered by

the trough of a low-pressure area in Davao (Region 11) and Caraga (Region 13).

The hardest-hit areas were the mountainous municipality of Maragusan in Davao de Oro, which recorded 23 landslides since Sunday, and the adjacent town of New Bataan, where more than 10,000 people were evacuated from flooded homes. Next page

By Alena Mae S. Flores CONSUMERS will face a fourth straight round of oil price hikes next week of as much as P1.70 per liter for diesel, reflecting the continuing volatility in the world oil market.

Industry sources said that based on

the four-day trading of the Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS), the pricing benchmark used by oilimporters, diesel pump prices may go up by P1.50 to P1.70 per liter, kerosene by P1.05 to P1.15 per liter, and gasoline by P0.75 to P0.95 per liter.

Next page

End probe on people's initiative now, House Majority Leader urges Senate

By Maricel V. Cruz and Vito Barcelo HOUSE Majority Leader Manuel Dalipe on Friday urged the Senate to terminate its inquiry into the alleged bribery of voters in thesignature campaign of people’s initiative (PI) advocates to

amend the Charter.

Dalipe said the Commission on Elections has already decided to indefinitely suspend the acceptance of PI signatures.

He noted that senators may also be losing interest in the hearing, judging from the failure of the witnesses to present evidence of alleged bribery.

Next page

Galvez hits Rody’s Mindanao secession call

By Charles Dantes and Vince Lopez PRESIDENTIAL peace adviser Carlito Galvez on Friday urged the public to turn away from any action that would destabilize the country, including former President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for Mindanao to secede from the rest of the country.

THE STANDARD THE BATO: LASCANAS’ THE STANDARD THE STORY REHASHED NEWS / A??

NEWS / A2

"When we, as Filipinos, are united, there is peace, development and prosperity. But when we, as a people, are divided, there is instability, underdevelopment, and disorder," Galvez said in a statement.

"Let us therefore turn away from any call or movement that aims to destabilize our beloved nation, especially to separate Mindanao from the rest of the country," he added.

Next page

THE STANDARD TRADERS OPPOSETHE SR. THE STANDARD THE BOOKLET SCRAPPING NEWS / A??

NEWS / A3

CORNELL CLUB. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez (left) delivers his welcome remarks during the Cornell Club of the Philippines ‘Speaker and Forum’ on Financial Literacy at the Manila Golf and Country Club in Makati City on Friday. Romualdez, the Cornell Club president, commended the leadership of the Bureau of Treasury for organizing the session. Ver Noveno

Lakas-CMD members in House issue manifesto backing Speaker

By Maricel V. Cruz

tect the truth,” members of the Lakas- House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas- Romualdez on the issue of the peoIN ANOTHER display of solidarity CMD) have signed a manifesto of ple’s initiative.

Next page and “unbending commitment to pro- support behind party president and

NEWS

A2

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2024

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Bato: Lascanas allegations rehashed “I can only say one thing. What he said now—a new version in which he linked Inday Sara to Tokhang—I will have my neck cut off,” said Dela Rosa.

Lascañas, an alleged member of the original Davao Death Squad, submitted a 186-page affidavit to the ICC where he

detailed the younger Duterte's alleged involvement in Tokhang-related killings.

Duterte denied the allegations and dared her accusers to file formal charges in connection to their allegations.

“In the years that I served as Vice Mayor and Mayor of Davao City, my name

was never once associated with this issue.

Suddenly there was a witness against me when I was elected Vice President. Now I am one of the accused in the International Criminal Court. It is evident that my name was intentionally linked to this matter to implicate me in the ICC,” she said, noting the timing of the accusations.

Lascanas said the then-mayor Duterte ordered Dela Rosa, who was then Davao City police chief, to kidnap and bury all drug pushers in the city.

He also claimed it was Senator Christopher Go who provided a list of targets.

Dela Rosa said Lascañas already made the same accusations more than six years ago, but without the name of the Vice

Abolish...

ties as a genuine whole-of-nation approach to peace,” she said.

National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said the NTF-ELCAC may transition into the National Task Force on Unity, Peace, and Development, but said now was not the time to abolish it.

At a press briefing at the Department of Foreign Affairs in Pasay City, Malaya said this plan was based on the observation that the New People’s Army (NPA) guerrilla fronts have weakened.

“The transition is prompted by two things: the first one is the strategic victory over the New People’s Army” and the resumption of peace talks with the communist rebels, he said.

Khan, who serves as the UN Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Opinion and Expression, also urged the government to carry out other reforms related to free speech and freedom of the press.

“So, there is a willingness [on the part of the Philippine government]to engage with the UN, these are all positive signals, but they are not sufficient to turn the page decisively on the past,” Khan said.

“Tackling the grave and deep-seated human rights problems of the Philippines, many of which are related to my mandate, will require more fundamental and sustained reforms and also a clear commitment to accountability.”

Prior to Khan's visit, UN Special Rapporteur Ian Fry, the first special rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights in the context of climate change, also recommended the abolition of NTF-ELCAC last November.

Special rapporteurs are independent human rights experts working voluntarily to make reports on specific country situations or thematic issues. They make policy recommendations to nations they have visited, but they cannot coerce governments to apply these changes.

In a statement from the Presidential Communications Office, the Palace said Khan's recommendation would undergo thorough evaluation and consideration for implementation.

"The UNSR’s initial report offered suggestions to enhance programs and mechanisms safeguarding human rights, with a focus on Freedom of Opinion and Expression," the PCO said.

"While the government is open to reforms, it points out the difficulties in fully grasping the local nuances within a brief ten-day visit. Hence, further discussions and collaborative efforts between the government and the UNSR are planned," the agency added.

According to the PCO, Khan had interactions with 24 government agencies, meetings with over ten members of the House of Representatives, and engage-

ments with seven members of the Supreme Court during her stay.

The NTF-ELCAC has come under fire for red-tagging or linking activists, human rights workers, journalists and administration critics to the armed communist movement, a charge its officials have denied.

Khan’s press conference marked the end of her visit to the Philippines, where she held meetings with various concerned government officials and personalities to assess the country’s situation related to the protection of freedom of opinion and expression.

Earlier, Khan visited various government agencies and talked with officials such as Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.

Among the government agencies she visited were the Supreme Court, the Department of Justice, and the Department of the Interior and LocalGovernment.

Khan also visited civil society organizations and human rights activists.

Malaya said the task force would focus on areas weakened by the communist insurgency so that insurgencies would not happen again.

“Once the 11 remaining guerrilla fronts have been dismantled, then that will be the signal to transition into the National Task Force on Unity, Peace and Development,” he said.

Three people were killed and a fourth was missing in the Maragusan landslides, its municipal disaster officer Romeo Tublag said.

"Our town is surrounded by mountains, so landslides are an ever-present threat. It's been raining almost daily here," Tublag said.

In New Bataan, a landslide killed a man while a woman was swept away and killed by floodwaters. Another man was electrocuted outside his flooded house, disaster official Aeona Armocilla said.

Swollen rivers flooded three villages, forcing the evacuation of 10,100 residents, Armocilla said, adding that it was still raining in the area late Thursday.

Floods also hit the municipalities of Bunawan and Veruela in nearby Agusan del Sur province, with more than 5,000 people sheltering in evacuation centers, provincial disaster official Alexis Cabardo said.

A situation report from the NDRRMC on Friday said a total of 98,793 people (27,245 families) felt the impact of deep flooding and multiple landslides in Davao

de Oro, Davao Oriental, and Davao City (Region 11); and in Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur (Region 13).

The Public Information Officer (PIO) of Davao de Oro, said six people died in the province due to landslides and drowning: three each in New Bataan and Maragusan towns.

The NDRRMC has tallied 33 landslides in Region 11, including 26 in Davao de Oro. The other seven occurred in Davao Oriental.

"Another one was missing in Pantukan [Davao de Oro] specifically in Barangay Araibo," Fe Maestre, the Davao de Oro PIO said in a radio interview over dzRH. The Philippine Coast Guard's (PCG) District Southeastern Mindanao(CGDSEM) has evacuated over 1,300 residents in Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, and Davao City amid massive flooding in the region.

"As of press time, the PCG continues to monitor the status of rivers in Davao City," PCG spokesperson Rear Admiral Armando Balilo said.

The PCG is also assisting in ongoing relief efforts in Caraga andBanay-Banay in Davao Oriental.

The regions of Davao and Caraga have been experiencing continuous rains since Jan. 29 due to the trough of a low-pressure area.

A total of 46,018 people were displaced by the bad weather, the NDRRMCsaid, and at least 19,000 were staying in evacuation centers.

The NDRRMC said 45 roads and nine bridges in Davao de Oro, Davao Oriental, and Agusan del Sur were not passable due to flooding and landslides.

In Lupon, Davao Oriental, Barangays Maragatas, Tagugpo, Calapagan, and Poblacion lost power.

Barangays Basa and Pulang Lupa in Trento, Agusan del Sur were alsowithout power.

Portions of Monkayo in Davao de Oro experienced water supply interruptions.

Monkayo is still reeling from a devastating landslide two weeks ago that killed 11 people. With AFP

The oil companies raised the price of gasoline, diesel, and keroseneby P2.80 per liter, P1.30 per liter and P0.45 per liter, respectively on Jan. 30.

The total adjustment of gasoline and diesel stands at a net increase of P4.40 per liter and P2.90 per liter, respectively.

Kerosene, on the other hand, has dropped P0.05 per liter for the year.

Prevailing retail prices of petroleum products in the National Capital Region for Jan. 30 to Feb. 5 range from P56.30 to P81.80 per liter forgasoline, P52.90 to P82.06 per liter for diesel, and P72.09 to P83.48 per liter for kerosene.

On Jan. 22, the oil companies also hiked the price of gasoline by P1.30 per liter and P 0.95 per liter for diesel but did not move kerosene prices.

Oil firms also raised the prices for diesel and kerosene of P0.90 per liter and P0.30 per liter for gasoline on Jan. 15.

Another oil price increase was implemented last Jan. 8 when diesel and kerosene went up by P0.90 per liter and gasoline by P0.30 per liter.

Galvez...

The move to separate Mindanao is anathema to the Constitution and would go against the present administration's push for unity across the country.

Galvez, a former chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, also called on the public to continue supporting the administration’s push for peace, reconciliation, and unity.

He said that even members of former revolutionary groups are already helping the government in pushing for true peace and sustainable development in the Bangsamoro region through inclusive, people-centered moral governance.

"Mindanao has already shed its image as a land of volatility, violence and armed struggle. It has now become a symbol of hope, mutual understanding, and solidarity, and most of all, a shining example that good things come to those who choose the path of peace,"

Galvez said.

"We cannot afford to go back to square one," he added.

"The dividends of peace are upon us and are now being felt by everyone," he said.

Galvez's remarks came days after Duterte called for a separate and independent Mindanao at a press conference in Davao City.

Galvez’s call for unity was echoed

by Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, who urged the public to continue supporting the Marcos administration and help protect the gains of the peace processes.

"Let us continue to support the current administration and allow peace and civility to reign over the affairs of our land," Ebrahim said in a separate statement.

Ebrahim said that as the current head of BARMM, he stands "firmly on adhering to the faithful implementation of the provisions of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

Christian Muslim Democrats in the House of Representatives, stand united in our resolve to defend the integrity of our esteemed Speaker, the Honorable Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, against the unfounded criticisms levied upon him in the context of the People’s Initiative to amend the 1987 Constitution," the document read.

"We express our unwavering support for Speaker Martin Romualdez,

recognizing his leadership and commitment to the principles of democracy and good governance. The allegations against him, centered around the People’s Initiative, are baseless and do not reflect the true nature of his service to the nation," it added.

Lakas-CMD is the dominant political party with 94 members in the 315-strong House, which Romualdez leads in his capacity as Speaker.

Through his reputation as a uniting force, Romualdez has rallied Lakas-CMD and its many allied parties in the lower chamber to a very fruitful 19th Congress under the stewardship of President Marcos, the party said.

The manifesto stated that under Romualdez's leadership, the House has achieved record success in approving bills that propel economic

By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Maricel Cruz

S

ENATOR Ronald Dela Rosa said he will have his neck chopped if former Davao City police officer Arturo Lascañas can prove that Vice President Sara Duterte was involved in “Oplan Tokhang” when she was still mayor in 2012.

From A1

In a press conference in Mandaluyong City, Khan, who serves as the UN Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Opinion and Expression, also urgedthe government to adopt and expedite the passage of a law to protect human rights defenders.

“First of all, my concern is about red tagging which continues tohappen, and that of course, fingers have been pointed at them,” Khan said. “I am asking for (the NTF-ELCAC) abolition because I think its usefulness is outdated.”

“I think (the Marcos) administration has set a different tone, a more open approach. I think definitely, there has been change. But I think there are some more systemic problems that need to be dealt with, for example, impunity, addressing attacks on journalists… there were four killings as you know last year, and are still taking place.”

“The abolition will not only address some of the most critical drivers of redtagging, but it will also allow this administration to modernize peace-building approaches based on this changing political landscape. The abolition will allow for a more inclusive peacemaking platform or platforms, with participation of women peacemakers and communi-

Flood,...

From A1

The national disaster agency said more floods could develop in riversin Lanao del Sur, where two towns would be affected, and Maguindanao, where eight municipalities were under threat.

“People living near the mountain slopes and in the low-lying areas ofthe abovementioned river systems and the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils concerned are still advised to take necessary precautionary measures,” the state weather bureau said in a general flood advisory for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

The trough of a low-pressure area could bring a “significant” amount of up to 100 millimeters of rain in the next 24 hours over BARMM and the Zamboanga Peninsula, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said in its weather advisory.

Diesel...

From A1

Department of Energy director for the oil industry management bureau Rodela Romero said the price uptrend was supported by several developments.

These include the drone attacks and fires to oil facilities of Russia designed to disrupt supply lines and logistics and the proposal to extend the production cut of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC+) of 2.2 million barrels per day until the first quarter of 2024.

World oil prices were also impacted by the US Federal Reserve's plansto reduce interest rates to help boost economic growth and create demand for commodities like crude oil, and the economic stimulus package to boost China's economy. “(Friday's) MOPS trading will further increase or decrease the said price adjustments for next week,” Romero said.

Lakas-CMD...

From A1

House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City Rep. Manuel Jose Dalipe, Lakas-CMD executive vice president, said the manifesto was created and signed by party members to uphold the principles of democracy.

"We, the members of the Lakas-

From A1

President.

“His new version is no longer the truth,” Dela Rosa said.

Go also rejected Lascañas' allegations, calling it “rehashed, old music, rotten style.”

Despite the denials, the Makabayan bloc is set to file anytime next week a resolution urging the leadership of the House of Representatives to investigate the alleged involvement of Duterte in the “Oplan Tokhang” in Davao City.

House Assistant Minority Leader and Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas underscored the need for Congress to step in to assess and determine legislation necessary to address the extrajudicial killings committed during the past administration.

AFP hails ‘flawless’ resupply run for BRP Sierra Madre

By Vince Lopez CHINA'S usual blockade at Ayungin Shoal did not materialize yesterday during the latest rotation and resupply mission for BRP Sierra Madre.

“Mission accomplished!” Armed Forces spokesperson Col. Francel Padilla said in a post on X. “Today, we executed a flawless rotation and resupply operation for BRP Sierra Madre. Teamwork, precision, and dedication at its best,” she added.

Former US Air Force Col. Ray Powell said the latest resupply mission was “very different” with the absence of China’s maritime and militia vessels.

Powell said Beijing's vessels were staying back at Panganiban Reef or Mischief Reef.

“Whatever deal the two sides made in Shanghai may have dialed down China's aggression (for now),” he said.

“The Philippines' resupply seems to have encountered virtually no resistance from China. Of course, there are certainly AIS-dark vessels we can't see (e.g., Chinese Coast Guard 5203) but those we can detect have kept their distance,” Powell added.

As this developed, the Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea said they are in need of two or three submarines.

“We do not only [need] one submarine, we need two or three,” Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad said.

President Marcos earlier approved adjustments to the AFP modernization program's "Horizon 3," Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said.

Teodoro said these will range from domain awareness, connectivity, intelligence capabilities, and deterrence capabilities on maritime and aerial domains.

The Defense chief said the Philippines is also starting a new defense concept called the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept.

End...

From A1

Dalipe reiterated his call for members of the Upper Chamber to help Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri to beat their self-imposed deadline to pass Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) 6.

"Let's just work together to pass RBH 6. People's Initiative is definitely gone," he said.

The House leader said Comelec is now busy preparing for next year’s mid-term elections and that it would have no time for a plebiscite.

“This means that the PI is in the freezer, for now. So, what is there to investigate, unless the purpose is to target some personalities, embarrass them?

The Senate inquiry is just a waste of taxpayers’ money that could otherwise be used for productive purposes,” he said.

Comelec chairman George Garcia said the commission has decided to suspend all people’s initiative proceedings to make way for reviewing and amending rules regarding the initiative.

“We honestly believe, based on our initial assessment, that we have to review, enhance, or add to the existing IRR concerning PI because we think that there is something that is lacking in the guidelines,” Garcia said.

“For example, our rules on withdrawal, our rules on opposition, and the rules on notices that we need in the end to avoid problems, confusion, and misunderstandings when it comes to the interpretation of the provisions of our rules,” he added.

growth, create job opportunities, and improve the overall quality of life for Filipinos.

"With him at the helm, the House has adopted a more activist role in nation-building, exemplified by our intensified oversight function, combating economic disparities and supporting the government's efforts against drug trafficking and other societal challenges," it read.

NEWS

A3 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2024

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

DFA vows to curb illicit issuances of visas by consulars THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has vowed to go after individuals involved in the sale of its travel permits or visas. At the same time, the DFA said it is committed to provide excellence in public service and improve its consular services.

Meanwhile, the Department of Justice (DOJ), through the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), has started looking into ways of closing the country’s backdoor on human traffickers using it’s as an escape route.

The DFA issued the statements amid allegations of illicit activities within its ranks, including embassy officials.

According to the DFA, it “does not tolerate or condone acts of corruption in its visa and consular services at Philippine Foreign Service Post.”

“Integral to its quality policy, the DFA takes allegations of extortion and other illicit activities in its visa processes seriously,” the DFA said in a statement.

The agency gave assurance that systems were already in place to “safeguard the integrity of the visa issuance process, including the conduct of a timely and thorough investigation to check the veracity of the report.“ The DFA also said it closely communicates with its foreign service posts and stakeholders in the tourism and security sectors in enhancing its mandate to issue entry visas and resolving complaints.”

In a statement, the DOJ said an IACAT delegation headed by Undersecretary-in-charge Felix Ty recently visited Zamboanga, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

The DOJ explained that the trip, done on Jan. 21 to 26, was the first part of the IACAT’s research on backdoor exits being utilized by human traffickers in avoiding arrest in the country.

“Ty has a positive approach on the trip which he believes will expand the awareness of Filipinos on human trafficking,” the DOJ said. Rey E. Requejo

FREE PEDICABS.

At least 30 impoverished residents of Tacloban City are now proud owners of pedicabs they received free of charge courtesy of the Tingog party-list, the Office of Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and the Department of Labor and Employment. On hand at the turnover rites held in Brgy.

Calanipawan, Tacloban City are Karla Estrada, Tingog director for community affairs, and DOLE representative Shirley Nibreja.

Business groups oppose scrapping of seniors, PWD purchase booklets

By Othel Campos

T

WO business groups are opposed to the removal of the booklets used by senior citizens and persons with disability to purchase groceries and medicines.

The Philippine Consumer Centric Traders Association said the law only authorizes up to P1,300 in weekly purchases for certain basic goods in the supermarket.

The Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 grants senior citizens a 20-percent discount and exemption from valueadded tax on the sale of specific goods and services from all establishments for their exclusive use and enjoyment.

“If there is no booklet, there will be no way to check if a senior has purchased more than what is allowed under the law,” the association said.

The Philippine Retailers Association pointed out the booklet requirement protects the system from abuse, as buyers could jump “from store A to store B” to get basic necessities in excess of their requirements, said PRA director Paul Santos.

“He might buy not just for himself, but also for his family,” Santos said.

The retailers were responding to a proposal by Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo to remove purchase booklets as a requirement for senior citizens, calling them “useless and an additional bur-

PCSO submits list of top lotto winners from July ‘23 to January to Tulfo panel

den” for the elderly.

Tulfo aired his sentiments during the resumption of the House Committee on Ways and Means hearing on the motu propio inquiry into the implementation and policies that provide discounts, incentives and tax exemptions for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

To get discounts, senior citizens must bring their senior citizen ID and a purchase booklet when they shop in supermarkets, convenience stores, and pharmacies.

He said most senior citizens tend to forget their booklets and when this happens, they are not granted discounts by business establishments.

United Senior Citizens party-list Rep. Milagros Aquino-Magsaysay agreed with Tulfo’s suggestion to abolish the requirement.

TRAVEL TOUR EXPO.

The Travel Tour Expo 2024 comes off the wraps with (from left) Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, TTEX chairperson Patria Chiong, and Tourism Secretary Maria Christina Frasco leading the opening ceremony.

The event, along with the 9th International Travel Trade Expo, is being held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City under the auspices of the Philippine Travel Agencies Association.

Norman Cruz

CJ tells traders: Judiciary is your equal in growth THE Supreme Court (SC) has assured the country’s business leaders of a functioning and reliable judiciary as their counterpart in enhancing economic growth and stability.

In his speech during the 2024 Justice Summit organized by the High Court and the Justice Reform Initiative (JRI) held in Makati City on Thursday, Chief Justice (CJ) Alexander Gesmundo expressed gratitude to the JRI members as partners of the judiciary.

“Much remains to be done. But we are already seeing the effects of our progress, as shown in the results of your survey. This gives us additional impetus to continue on this difficult road we have chosen,” the country’s top magistrate said.

JRI was formed almost a decade ago. It was a private initiative composed of leading business organizations and foreign chambers of commerce in the country.

“The judiciary’s role in national development has been underappreciated or simply ignored. The economy has been viewed as a field entirely separate and unconnected to the justice system. But thanks to the JRI, the important connection has been made and JRI made it its avowed mission,” Gesmundo stressed.

He recalled that “year in and year out, we are rated globally as one of the poorest in terms of Ease of Doing Business.” Rey E. Requejo

THE Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has submitted to the Senate the list of jackpot lotto winners from July 2023 to Jan. 30, 2024.

This developed as the Senate Committee on Games and Amusement headed by Senator Raffy Tulfo resumed its inquiry into perceived irregularities in the conduct of the PCSO’s lotto draws.

Tulfo sought last week the submission of pertinent documents on the lotto games, including the tax records, and the list of jackpot winners.

Lyssa Grace Pagano, chief of staff of PCSO general manager Melquiades Robles, delivered the documents to the Senate.

Aside from the list of lotto winners, the PCSO also turned over a so-called “alpha list” or record of taxes collected

from the jackpot winners from July 1,2023 to December 2023.

Tulfo assured the PCSO that the documents would be treated in confidentiality and would only be used for his panel’s review.

The Senate committee has been looking into the recent PCSO games following allegations of “manipulation” and senators’ questions on the frequent winnings of lotto games involving huge amounts of jackpot prizes.

Robles denied during the last hearing that the PCSO manipulated the results of a recent 6/49 Grand Lotto draw won by a single bettor.

The senators also question the purported PCSO augmentation that significantly raised the amount of the lotto prize jackpots.

Party-list lawmaker heads newly formed AFP reserve group

Three-agency panel draws up emergency plans in case ‘Big One’ occurs

By Maricel V. Cruz A PARTY-LIST congressman has been unanimously elected as the first chairman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reservists’ association.

1-Pacman Rep. Mikee Romero, chairman of the House Committee on Poverty Alleviation, now holds the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Philippine Air Force (PAF) reserve corps.

His election to the military reservists group took place Thursday, Feb. 1, during the first meeting of the advisory board and board of trustees of the Association of Reservists and Reservist Administrators of the Philippines, Inc. in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Romero and other officers of the association took their oath of office before Maj. Gen. Joel Alejandro Nacnac, AFP deputy chief for reservist and retiree affairs.

In his acceptance message, Romero urged his colleagues to harness their individual talents and skills in supporting the AFP advance its mission of preserving peace and defending the country.

By Joel Zurbano THREE government agencies are developing plans for Metro Manila and nearby provinces to prepare for the socalled “Big One,” referring to a major earthquake.

Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Romando Artes and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. have met with officials

of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) to discuss the contingency plans.

The meeting resulted in a consensus to intensify disaster and emergency response to earthquakes and other calamities in Metro Manila and surrounding areas.

The three agencies also agreed to implement a simultaneous earthquake drill, which will feature the absence of electricity, water, and telecommunication signals to pre-

pare for the expected magnitude 7.2 earthquake caused by the West Valley Fault and tsunami.

Artes said they are also planning to construct the MMDA Disaster Response Training Center in Carmona, Cavite to raise public awareness of disaster preparedness and emergency rescue measures.

Experts believe that the “Big One” will happen anytime and inflict occurring in the first hour alone, over 100,000

injured, and an economic loss of P2.5 trillion.

The three-man panel also aims to inform the public about survival methods and the “do’s and don’ts” before, during, and after the disaster.

Artes emphasized the importance of continuing preparedness for the possibility of the “Big One” in Metro Manila.

He enjoined every sector of society to be aware and ready to respond to such catastrophic events.

Customs foils smuggling bid in Zambo, seizes vessel, P27.6m worth of cigarettes

By Darwin Amojelar

CORONATION NIGHT IN JARO CATHEDRAL. The Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral is all aglow in the night for the coronation of the image of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria (Our Lady of the Candles) Thursday in Jaro, Iloilo City. Photo by the Iloilo City Mayor’s Office

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has thwarted a smuggling attempt in Zamboanga, resulting in the seizure of a wooden boat and smuggled cigarettes worth P27.6 million.

The BOC’s Water Patrol Division (WPD), together with Enforcement and Security Service-Customs Police Division and the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service based in Zamboanga, conducted a maritime patrol operation which led to the apprehension and seizure of the motor boat marked “FB JFM 2.”

Upon inspection, the vessel, also

known as “jungkong,” was found to be loaded with smuggled cigarettes.

The arrested nine crewmembers allegedly failed to present documents to prove the legality of their shipment.

The 2nd Zamboanga City Mobile Force Co. assisted the BOC personnel in taking the motor boat with its cargo to the BOC office address in Brgy.

Baliwasan where proper inventory was conducted.

Acting district collector Arthur Sevilla Jr. commended the WPD for the successful maritime security in the area, contributing to the BOC’s efforts to curb smuggling as mandated by Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio.

NEWS

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2024

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Manila lights golden money tree for CNY

By Randy Caluag MANILA Mayor Honey Lacuna on Thursday night led the lighting of the gold-themed money tree at the Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz in Binondo, kicking off a series of celebrations for the Chinese New Year and the 430th anniversary of Manila Chinatown.

Prominent figures from the Filipino-Chinese business community, led by Manila Chinatown Development Council Executive Director Willord Chua and Chinatown Barangay Organization President Jefferson Lau, joined Lacuna in underscoring the significance of Manila Chinatown as a prime tourism destination and a hub for trade and commerce.

Lacuna emphasized that the event, a first in Manila, serves as a platform to celebrate the rich history and culture of “Chinoys” while recognizing their substantial contributions to Manila and the broader development of the nation.

“Like our hardworking Filipino-Chinese fellow citizens, we should all strive not just for material things, but for the overall progress of our city,” said Lacuna in Filipino.

PROSPERITY TREE.

Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna Pangan (center, inset) lead the lighting ceremony of the Prosperity Tree to mark the 430th anniversary of Chinese New Year celebrations at Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz in Binondo on Thursday night. Binondo is the oldest Chinatown in the world, established in 1594 by the Spaniards as a settlement near Intramuros across the Pasig River.

Norman Cruz

Tests show towns in Occ. Mindoro have no more ASF RANDOM blood tests by the Bureau of Animal Industry on pigs in three towns in Occidental Mindoro tested negative for African Swine Fever, the Department of Agriculture (DA) announced Friday.

The latest blood tests were conducted to secure Recognition of Active Surveillance on ASF (RAS-ASF), attesting there are no active cases of ASF in a specified place, the department said.

The tests, conducted at the Regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, confirmed the absence of ASF in the local pig population.

Municipalities in the province have applied for the RAS-ASF from the BAI. Aside from the assurance of no active ASF cases within the municipality, the certification also serves as a prerequisite for allowing the entry and exit of pigs in Occidental Mindoro, to prevent the spread of ASF and maintain the biosecurity of pig farms in the province.

The province has set up meat inspection checkpoints on the last week of January following the confirmation of an ASF outbreak in the towns of San Jose, Santa Cruz, and Rizal.

The local governments also quarantined affected farms after the ASF announcement.

Othel V. Campos

DA steps up onion production

By Othel V. Campos

T

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) is taking proactive steps to improve the production of quality onions in the country, including partnering with local government units in information awareness and training programs.

Agriculture Assistant Secretary Genevieve Guevarra on Friday encouraged onion farmers to share information to address concerns affecting their industry.

“Let us practice early reporting and monitoring of unusual events in the

farms,” Guevarra said during a meeting with onion growers and members of the Provincial and Municipal Agriculture Office in Nueva Ecija.

Agriculture officials led by the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) visited pro-

duction areas in Bongabon and Rizal, Nueva Ecija to monitor harvest and engage farmers to be more proactive in coordinating with the DA regarding concerns and issues.

Guevarra added that government is ready to support the industry to ensure that farmers maximize productivity to increase their income.

BPI director Glenns Panganiban said the government will provide a technical support program to onion farmers and agricultural extension workers to equip industry stakeholders with effec-

PENSION PAYOUT.

First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos (center, seated) and Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian lead the DSWD’s ceremonial social pension payout to indigent senior citizens at the agency’s central office in Quezon City on Friday.

Manny Palmero

Peralta new PNP No. 2, Arnaldo takes directorial staff post in revamp TWO top officials got new positions in the latest revamp in the command group of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

In an order dated Feb. 1 and released Friday, PNP Chief, Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr., named Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Peralta as the deputy chief for administration (DCA), the force’s second-highest post.

He replaced Lt. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia, who retired from the service last Jan. 26.

Before his appointment to the post, Peralta was the PNP’s fourth top official or the chief of the directorial staff.

He previously held key posts, including director for operations and director of the Police Regional Office 1 (Ilocos) and the Southern Police District in Metro Manila.

Meanwhile, Area Police Command - Northern Luzon Commander, Maj. Gen. Jon Arnaldo, replaces Peralta as the chief of the directorial staff.

Arnaldo will supervise and synchronize the functions of the PNP directorial staff offices in support of the operations of the 17 Police Regional Offices and the different national operational

support units.

Earlier this week, the PNP nullified an order designating Lt. Gen. Michael John Dubria as the acting DCA, replacing Sermonia.

Dubria was supposed to serve in a concurrent capacity while remaining as the PNP’s third top official or deputy chief for operations. Vince Lopez

tive tools and knowledge in managing the production areas.

Aside from the regular information campaign carried out by the Regional Crop Protection Center, BPI will hold training programs on Integrated Pest Management, efficient use of biocontrol agents and judicious use of farm inputs, including fertilizer and pesticides.

“We will also assist onion growers of Nueva Ecija in securing a Philippine Good Agricultural Practices (PhilGAP) certificate to enable them to access more markets,” Panganiban said.

PAGCOR revenue rises 34 percent, hits P79 billion

By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) on Friday said its revenues rose by 34.63 percent to P79.37 billion in 2023, driven mainly by robust earnings from licensed casinos and the rising electronic games sector.

PAGCOR’s gaming operations remain the main source of its revenues with P73.11 billion while other sources such as services, business income, gains and non-operating income contributed P6.26 billion.

Net income amounted to P6.81 billion, a 53.27 percent increase from the agency’s P4.44 billion profit in 2022.

Alejandro H. Tengco, PAGCOR chairman and chief executive, said the higher earnings enabled the state gaming firm to increase its contribution to nation-building (CNB) to P49.56 billion, 43 percent higher than the P34.67 billion CNB in the previous year.

“Our robust revenue generation in 2023 allowed us to remit more funds to the government to finance various services, including funding for the Universal Health Care program, also known as PhilHealth,” Tengco said.

Party-list thanks gov’t agencies for building NAIA OFW Lounge

By Maricel V. Cruz REP. Marissa Magsino of the OFW party-list group has expressed gratitude to the administration for putting up the recently inaugurated OFW Lounge at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1, calling it the “legacy of the President.”

Magsino visited the lounge where her group donated four units of high-grade plasma air purifiers to improve its indoor air quality. The party-list also provided home-cooked meals to the overseas Filipino workers in appreciation of their hard work and dedication before their departure for their assignments abroad.

The lounge, which officially opened its doors on Jan. 16, is a collaborative effort among the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Manila

International Airport Authority (MIAA) under the Department of Transportation (DOTr), OFW party-list, and the House of Representatives headed by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.

“We are glad that a daily average of 1,000 Overseas Filipino Workers are able to use the OFW Lounge and are being served with free food and drinks, essential amenities, Wi-Fi connectivity, charging docks, power outlets, and a paging system,” Magsino said.

“It was a dream turned into reality as the OFW Party List worked closely with OWWA, DMW, MIAA, and DOTr from September 2023 to January 2024 on the preparations for and renovations on the OFW Lounges in NAIA Terminals 1 and 3,” she added, as she thanked the officials of government agencies concerned for their effort to provide a decent space for the OFWs at the airport.

GUAGUA CENTER. Senator Lito Lapid speaks then leads the groundbreaking ceremonies of the convention center to rise in Brgy.

San Antonio, Guagua, Pampanga on Thursday. The convention center will be shaped like a star and a dome, symbolizing the Christmas lantern, which is the main industry in the province. ‘Supremo’ Lapid joined TIEZA COO Mark Lapid and local officials of Guagua led by Mayor Anthony Joseph ‘Tonton’ Lim Torres and Vice-Mayor Benjamin Lim Jr. in the groundbreaking. Lino Santos

4 killed, 5 hurt in blaze at Laguna fireworks factory FOUR persons were killed while five others were injured in a blast and fire that hit a fireworks factory in the province of Laguna on Thursday afternoon, the Philippine National Police said Friday.

In a report, the PNP-Area Police Command Southern Luzon (APC-SL)

said the incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. at the Diamond Fireworks Inc. in Barangay Bigaa, Cabuyao City.

The Cabuyao Component City Police Station, Cabuyao City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) and the Bureau of Fire

Protection (BFP) Cabuyao immediately responded to the fire, which was declared out shortly before 6 p.m.

Two unidentified bodies were recovered at the site, while the injured persons were rushed to various hospitals.

Vince Lopez

B1

OPINION

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2024

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

Citizen Barok

Louis ‘Barok’ Biraogo

EDITORIAL

UN’s press freedom circus in PH IRENE Khan, the UN’s self-proclaimed savior of press freedom, has graced the Philippines with her fleeting presence.

A 10-day expedition, masked as an evaluation of human rights mechanisms, raises questions about the sanity of UN allocations.

Khan, the supposed priestess of press freedom, will conduct her superficial assessment in a mere 10 days.

How convenient!

—“—

The UN’s theatrical circus, under the guise of press freedom assessments, continues unabated, and Khan’s role in this macabre show is one of wasted time and money

Can a foreigner genuinely comprehend the intricacies of Philippine Constitutional Law and the zealous Supreme Court protection of press freedom in such a short span?

The standards guiding Khan’s evaluation remain a mystery.

Will she defy the decisions of the Supreme Court, or will her visit be nothing more than an arbitrary exercise of UN bureaucracy?

A foreigner’s subjective perspective on a Constitutional right leaves much to be desired.

The question of objectivity lingers

like a bad smell.

Khan’s rendezvous with biased critics, including former Senator Leila de Lima, showcases a cherry-picked narrative.

How can Khan ascertain the truth from a limited pool of sources, especially when dealing with someone like de Lima, known for her one-sided diatribes?

This entire escapade reeks of a colossal waste.

Who foots the bill for Khan’s lavish accommodations and luxury travel?

Suspicions linger that Khan, a UN puppet, enjoys a luxurious vacation at the expense of the host country.

A five-star hotel and chauffeured rides — the perks of being a UN diplomat on a supposed fact-finding mission.

While Khan enjoys her taxpayerfunded holiday, genuine issues of press freedom elsewhere remain neglected.

Countries like Russia, China, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Singapore, and Malaysia, where press freedom is a myth, escape UN scrutiny.

The UN’s priorities are as twisted as a psychological thriller’s plot.

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the unending violence in Gaza mock the UN’s claim of relevance.

What is the UN doing? Nothing substantial.

Instead of denouncing actual perpetrators like Hamas, they point fingers at Israel.

The UN’s ineptitude is glaring, leaving one to wonder if it’s just a global talking shop.

We won’t grace Khan’s desk or be acknowledged in her seemingly predetermined report.

The UN’s theatrical circus, under the guise of press freedom assessments, continues unabated, and Khan’s role in this macabre show is one of wasted time and money.

No to secession

N

EARLY six years ago, the Consultative Committee tasked by then president Rodrigo Duterte to review the 1987 Constitution voted to unanimously revise parts of the Preamble under its proposed Constitution under a federal form of government to ensure the proposed federal republic will be permanent and there will be no secession.

More specifically, the ConCom wanted to prohibit secession under a federal system and make the nation “indissoluble, permanent, and eternal.”

ConCom chairman and former chief justice Reynato Puno said then, in voting in favor of the revisions to the Preamble during an en banc session at the Philippine International Convention Center: “Our proposed Preamble proposes a union that is indissoluble, a federalism that is permanent, a bond that is eternal.”

He added: “This is not just a grandiose display and play of words but a pledge by all our people, a promise by all our constituents not to secede from the new federal republic. This pledge not to se-

Eagle Eyes Tony La Viña

EVERYMAN

SMC: Caring for seniors, PWDs

By Melandrew T. Velasco IT IS inherent in our culture to respect and care for our elderly family members.

This respect and care go beyond family members to include elderly citizens to whom we look up for words of wisdom and guidance.

Caring for the elderly is also enshrined in our Constitution.

Article XV Section 4 states “The family has the duty to care for its elderly members but the State may also do so through just programs of social security.”

Moreover, Article XIII Section 11 provides “The State shall adopt an integrated and comprehensive approach to health development which shall endeavor to make essential goods, health and other social services available to all the people at affordable cost. There shall be priority for the needs of the underprivileged sick, elderly, disabled, women, and children.”

Benefits and privileges of senior citizens or the elderly are governed by Republic Act 9994, the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, which further amended Republic Act 7432.

These benefits and privileges include: — discount and exemption from value added tax on the sale of goods and services from establishments for senior citizens’ exclusive use; travel fare discounts; exemption from training fees for socio economic programs; — free vaccination against the influenza virus and pneumococcal disease for indigent senior citizen patients; free medical and dental services in government facilities; priority or express lanes for senior citizens in all government offices and commercial establishments; — and five percent discount to the monthly water and electricity bills provided the utility meters are registered in the name of the resident senior citizen and monthly consumption for electricity does not exceed 100 kWh and for water, 30 cubic meters, among others.

For PWDs, the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons as amended by Republic Act 9442 ensures they are not left behind.

Despite the mandated benefits and privileges for senior citizens and PWDs,

alleged non-compliance by some establishments has been reported prompting an inquiry by the House of Representatives recently.

The investigation brought together the Committees on Ways and Means, Senior Citizens, and PWDs. It was conducted to clarify issues in relation to the mandated benefits and privileges of senior citizens, PWDs, and even solo parents particularly on the discounts they are entitled to.

—“—

Aside from its businesses that contribute to economic development, SMC has programs and projects that directly impact on the different sectors of society

Amid the discussions on how to improve the implementation of the laws and empower the concern sectors, it is heartening to know that hopefully, the elderly and PWDS will soon be getting 20-percent discounts on the use of expressways and skyways operated by San Miguel Corporation namely: Metro Manila and NAIA skyway, South Luzon Expressway, STAR (Southern Tagalong Arterial Road), and TPLEX (Tarlac-PangasinanLa Union Expressway).

It was San Miguel Corporation’s infrastructure group head Mr. Rafael Yabut who made the announcement during the hearing.

A former undersecretary of public works, he said granting discounts would be coordinated by SMC with the Toll Regulatory Board and relevant agencies.

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cede is ultra important. For today, the world is beset by the problem of secession of states.”

We remember Puno’s words because Duterte, who tasked the ConCom to review the 1987 Constitution, said this week there is currently a “regrouping of the political arena that is still in the works” that would lead to the campaign for Mindanao to separate from the rest of the country.

—“—

Admittedly there is no room for secession as some quarters, whatever their hidden agenda may be, are loudly suggesting

Senator Francis Escudero said Duterte’s announced plan to separate Mindanao to secede from the Philippines might “not be Constitutionally possible.”

Duterte’s fellow Mindanaon, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, himself said: “With due respect to the former President, I think the last thing we want is to make our country chaotic

The killings began in Davao

FORMER Senator Leila De Lima once reflected on why the International Criminal Court can rightfully come in to the Philippines to investigate the thousands of extrajudicial killings committed during Duterte’s war against drugs.

De Lima started with a well-accepted observation that ideally, extrajudicial killings should be resolved domestically, applying national Constitutional and legal remedies of criminal investigation and prosecution.

However, according to her: “In such cases, when the “ideal scenario” fails to manifest itself in reality, there remains an international forum under which justice can be achieved if and when domestic remedies fail to provide a genuine solution.

The ICC provides such a forum. Thus, essentially, it is an extraordinary remedy, available only when it can be shown that domestic justice system can no longer be expected to provide a genuine solution “to end impunity and prevent further acts of injustice.”

According to De Lima, “Complementarity consists of an examination of the existence of genuine relevant national proceedings in relation to the potential cases being considered for investigation by the Office, bearing in mind the Office’s prosecutorial strategy of investigating and prosecuting those most responsible for the most serious crimes.

“Conversely, complementarity is not fulfilled where the state party is able to show that it has taken genuine steps to: (1) End impunity; (2) Encourage genuine national proceedings; and (3) Prevent the further commission of the crime.

Thus, Senator De Lima emphasizes, before resort can be made to the ICC, “it must be shown that substantial efforts have been exerted to the end of conducting a criminal prosecution in the

jurisdiction of the state party, and that the accused has not been tried because the domestic legal system of the state party has failed to exact accountability.”

This follows from the rationale of the ICC which was established not to supplant the justice systems of the individual state parties, but to complement them.

Hence, the principle of complementarity.

According to reports, Yabut agreed to the proposal of Rep. Joey Salceda, Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, that instead of deducting 20 percent from the cost of an expressway or skyway radio frequency identification (RFID) card or its top-up load, an equivalent amount would be added to the card price or additional load.

Thus, the 20 percent discount would be given as an add-on.

For elderly owners of vehicles to avail themselves of the discount, the vehicle with the RFID should be registered under the name of the senior citizen or PWD. For those of us who are not legislators or lawmakers, we do not know if an enabling law is needed for this.

Or, amendments will be introduced to the existing Expanded Seniors Citizens Act and the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons.

Whichever, I hope it will not take too long for our legislature to pass one.

San Miguel Corporation did it again.

It has proven it is a trailblazer for many ideas that are benefitting the country and its people.

Aside from its businesses that contribute to economic development, it has programs and projects that directly impact on the different sectors of society.

Its advocacies extend from education for the youth, livelihood and skills training for the unemployed, housing, health

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Anita F. Grefal Baldwin R. Felipe Edgar M. Valmorida

Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Treasury Manager Head—Ad Solutions Circulation Manager

and divided.”

Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. also called on Filipinos to rally behind President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “Bagong Pilipinas” initiative, in light of Duterte’s call to separate Mindanao from the Philippines, stressing this would bring greater peace, progress and unity to the nation.

The government’s Bagong Pilipinas campaign is a multi-sectoral effort that seeks to bring all Filipinos, in the words of Galvez, “together as one nation regardless of ethnicity, religion, economic status or personal beliefs.”

The Marcos administration’s clarion for national renewal seeks to build a society that will provide all Filipinos with equal opportunities to uplift their lives and fulfill their full potential.

We believe this is not just a slogan but, as President Marcos said, “a holistic and inclusive brand of governance that will guide the government in its development and peace-building efforts for the 113.9 million population.

That includes 27,021,000 from Mindanao, divided into six administrative regions: Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Caraga Region, Davao Region, Soksuksargen Region and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.

Admittedly there is no room for secession as some quarters, whatever their hidden agenda may be, are loudly suggesting.

—“—

The CHR was also the very first government institution to undertake an investigation on the Davao Death Squad starting March of 2009

De Lima then observes: “In relation to the Duterte Administration’s War on Drugs, the 2019 Report of the Office of the Prosecutor states that, based on open source information, there is indication that ‘a limited number of investigations and prosecutions have been initiated (and, in some cases, completed) at the national level in respect of direct perpetrators of certain criminal conduct that allegedly took place in the context of, or connection to, the WoD campaign,’ including, for example: 1. sporadic public updates provided by Philippine government officials and bodies on the number of investigations conducted by various authorities into killings that occurred

during law enforcement operations; 2. criminal charges have been laid in the Philippines against a number of individuals – typically low-level, physical perpetrator – including in the case of the November 2018 death of 17-year-old Kian Delos Santos, wherein three police officers were convicted for murder by the Caloocan City Regional Trial Court.

De Lima recalls her own communication to the ICC, where she argued that: “The Commission on Human Rights is the only remaining credible institution capable of holding state security forces accountable for abuses and violations, in light of the fact that other state accountability institutions are under the direct control and supervision of the President who is the one responsible for the mass extermination program being carried out by the Philippine National Police at present.

The CHR was also the very first government institution to undertake an investigation on the Davao Death Squad starting March of 2009.

This was the time when Duterte threatened to line up all CHR commissioners and shoot them one by one, before he met them face to face in the first public hearing on the DDS which was conducted at the very heart of Davao City.

It has been reported that aside from former President Duterte, Vice-President Sara Duterte (as former vice-mayor and mayor of Davao City), and Senators Bato Del Rosario (as former chief of police in Davao City as head of the Philippine National Police) and Bong Go (as the longtime aid of Duterte in Davao and Malacanang), might be indicted I the ICC. The killing started in Davao. There will be accountability for that.

Website: tonylavina.com Facebook: deantonylavs Twitter: tonylavs

and medical aid, environment protection, among others.

Now, it is working to help the elderly and PWDs. SMC, under its President Ramon S. Ang has showed other organizations that beyond profit, is the need to help the government care for its citizens.

It is my fervent hope others will follow the lead.

(The author is president and executive director of the Million Trees Foundation Inc., a non-profit group advocating tree planting and watershed protection. He is also a book writer and publisher of biographical and coffee table books.)

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

TODAY

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SUPPORT FOR PALESTINIANS.

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC FOR UPGRADING OF BUSINESS COMPANY NAME

People gather in support of Palestinians outside the venue where US President Joe Biden is speaking to members of the United Auto Workers at the UAW National Training Center, in Warren, Michigan, on Friday. AFP

This is to inform the public that MJCG CONST. INC. upgraded it’s company business name to Manila Standard MJCG CONSTRUCTION AND TODAY DEVELOPMENT CORP. as per approved SEC Company Registration No. CS201103212 dated September 14, 2023.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

ERRATA On January 31, 2024, Cirrus Global, Inc. (the Corporation) with POEA License No. POEA-166LB-091219-R, published its Notice of Transfer of Office from Room 109, 225 & 228 Universal Motors Corporation, 2232 Don Chino Roces Avenue, Makati City, to Room 232 Universal Motors Corporation, 2232 Don Chino Roces Avenue, Makati City, effective February 5, 2024.

The Corporation’s transfer of office is put on hold, and an announcement will be made in the future.

Haley battles Trump, odds, on home turf COLUMBIA — Nikki Haley tried to fire up the crowd at a South Carolina barbecue joint — even though the polls say Donald Trump is set to smoke her in the Republican presidential primary in her home state.

“Head to head, Trump does not beat Joe Biden. I defeat Biden,” the former South Carolina governor told supporters on Thursday (Friday in Manila), as steam rose from piles of fried chicken and pulled pork on a buffet nearby.

The ex-UN ambassador is now the sole challenger to her former boss, with Haley, 51, hoping a home advantage will help her in the Palmetto State’s primary on Feb. 24.

Her message is aimed at more moderate Republicans and wavering Democrats — focusing on the “chaos” of Trump’s first term, and bashing both the 77-year-old and 81-year-old Biden as too old for a second term.

She faces an uphill battle. A Washington Post/Monmouth University poll released Thursday showed Trump leading Haley by 58 percent to 32 percent.

Still, supporters at Doc’s Barbecue restaurant in South Carolina state capital Columbia said she could still win, describing the race as a choice between a “Republican and a fascist”.

“I just love her moral fiber,” said Sarah Rock, from Columbia, sporting a red, white and blue “I Pick Nikki” badge on her blouse. “She’s not going to have criminal issues and I think she is what our country needs.” AFP

Hamas gives ‘initial’ approval to Gaza hostage-prisoner plan P

ALESTINAN Territories — Fighting in Gaza dragged on into Friday with scores reported killed overnight, after mediator Qatar said Hamas had given its “initial” approval to a hostageprisoner exchange deal that would pause its war with Israel.

Hamas’s health ministry said 105 people were killed overnight from Thursday to Friday, while the group’s press office reported raids and shelling around Khan Yunis — southern Gaza’s main city and the recent epicentre of hostilities.

Nearly four months of fighting have ren-

dered Gaza “uninhabitable”, according to the UN, while an Israeli siege has led to dire shortages of food, water, fuel and medicines.

The humanitarian crisis, coupled with soaring civilian casualties, has spurred increasing international calls for a ceasefire.

Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesman, Majed al-Ansari, said Thursday that recent talks in Paris between Qatari, US, Israeli and Egyptian officials had yielded a consolidated truce proposal.

“That proposal has been approved by the Israeli side and now we have an initial positive confirmation from the Hamas side.”

Ansari said there were hopes of “good news” about a new pause in the fighting “in the next couple of weeks”.

But a source close to Hamas told AFP on Thursday: “There is no agreement on the framework of the agreement yet — the fac-

tions have important observations — and the Qatari statement is rushed and not true.”

A Hamas source had previously told AFP the three-stage plan would start with an initial six-week halt to the fighting that would see more aid deliveries into Gaza.

Only “women, children and sick men over 60” held by militants would be freed during that stage in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israel, the source said, requesting anonymity because of the sensitivity of the talks.

There would also be “negotiations around the withdrawal of Israeli forces,” with possible additional phases involving more hostage-prisoner exchanges.

The war in Gaza was triggered by Hamas’s Oct. 7 attack on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,160 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures. AFP

On course for power, UK’s Labor prepares for quick change

SWEEPING REFORMS. A

man poses next to policemen outside the Congress while lawmakers debate the government’s ‘omnibus bill’ of economic reforms in Buenos Aires Friday. Argentine police fired rubber bullets to disperse protesters gathered outside Congress as lawmakers debated the new president’s sweeping reform package. AFP

N. Korea fires multiple cruise missiles into West Sea SEOUL -- North Korea fired multiple cruise missiles into the West Sea on Friday, Seoul’s military said, continuing a fresh streak of weapons testing as Kim Jong Un’s regime ramps up “war preparations.”

Seoul’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said the military had “detected at around 11 am the firing of multiple unidentified cruise missiles” into the sea off the country’s west coast.

The South Korean military has “stepped up surveillance in close coordination with the United States,” the JCS said in the statement.

The military is “closely monitoring for signs of additional activity” by the North Korean army, it said, adding they were “closely analyzing” the launch.

COUP ANNIVERSARY.

A protester covered in fake blood flashes the three-finger salute next to an image of detained civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi during a demonstration outside the UN office in Bangkok on Thursday to mark the third anniversary of the coup in Myanmar.

AFP

The Friday launch comes three days after the nuclear-armed North conducted what it said was a test-fire of a strategic cruise missile.

On Sunday, Kim also oversaw the launch of two Pulhwasal-3-31s, a new type of strategic cruise missile, purportedly from a North Korean submarine.

Pyongyang has also claimed this month to have tested an “underwater nuclear weapon system” and a solidfueled hypersonic ballistic missile.

Unlike their ballistic counterparts, the testing of cruise missiles is not banned under current UN sanctions on Pyongyang.

Cruise missiles tend to be jet-propelled and fly at a lower altitude than more sophisticated ballistic missiles, making them harder to detect and in-

tercept.

Analysts have warned that North Korea could be testing cruise missiles ahead of sending them to Russia for use in Ukraine, with Washington and Seoul claiming Kim has shipped weapons to Moscow as part of a possible illicit deal, banned by rafts of UN sanctions.

The latest launch follows Kim Jong Un inspecting warships at a naval shipyard as he looks to bolster his maritime forces as part of “war preparations”, state media said Friday.

In recent weeks, Kim has declared South Korea his country’s “principal enemy”, jettisoned agencies dedicated to reunification and outreach, and threatened war over “even 0.001 mm” of territorial infringement. AFP

LONDON – If the main opposition Labor party wins the next UK general election as opinion polls indicate, then a familiar sight will appear outside the prime minister’s official residence the next day: removal vans.

The overnight transition, unique in major Western democracies, contrasts with the roughly two months’ preparation for an incoming US administration and around 10 days for a new French president.

But if Labor defeats the governing Conservatives by a majority at this year’s nationwide vote, its leader Keir Starmer will replace Rishi Sunak inside 10 Downing Street within hours.

The UK’s politically neutral 500,000-strong civil service, satirized in the hit 1980s British sitcom “Yes Minister”, will immediately find itself working for new government ministers with new priorities.

Key to the quick changeover are socalled “access talks” between the opposition party and senior civil servants, which occur in the run-up to an election.

Tory leader Sunak recently gave Labour permission to commence these discussions with mandarins in Whitehall — the catch-all term for the civil service — and they are due to start imminently.

“They’re important because they’re the only opportunity before the election for opposition politicians to privately share their thinking and their ideas with the civil service government machine,” former civil servant Alex Thomas told AFP. They are also a chance for civil servants to inform future ministers and their advisers about any operational issues they may encounter at the department they might soon lead. AFP

Biden to receive bodies of troops killed in Jordan DOVER -- President Joe Biden on Friday (Saturday in Manla) will oversee the return to the United States of the bodies of three American soldiers, killed in a drone attack at a base in Jordan that Washington has blamed on Iran-backed militants.

Amid strikes between US forces and Iranbacked groups in Iraq and Syria, as well as exchanges with Yemen’s Huthi rebels, these were the first US military personnel killed by hostile fire in the region following the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel.

The bodies of William Jerome Rivers, Kennedy Ladon Sanders and Breonna Alexsondria Moffett will arrive at an air

force base in Dover, Delaware, where they Donald Trump, hope to retake the White will be received with military honors.

House.

The president previously received bodThe Democrat, who has suffered many ies at the base following the August 26, family tragedies of his own, is known to 2021 bombing at the Kabul airport, during get emotional when greeting mourning the US pull-out from Afghanistan.

Americans.

The White House has said a militia He already called each of the three famcalled the Islamic Resistance in Iraq was ilies of the soldiers killed in Jordan, in part behind the attack on the base in Jordan, to make sure they were OK with his presnear the Syrian border. Biden has vowed ence at the ceremony. a response, the nature and timing of which “I know there is nothing anybody can CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK have not been declared publicly. say or do to ease the pain, I’ve been there,” Pressure is mounting on the Democratic Biden said in one call, recorded and shared president during an election year where by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution newsRepublicans, including his predecessor paper. AFP

BUSINESS

B3 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2024

extrastory2000@gmail.com

PH stocks surge on US market rebound MANGROVE PLANTING.

One Meralco Foundation (OMF), the social development arm of the Manila Electric Company (Meralco), celebrates this year’s World Wetlands Day by planting and nurturing 125,000 native mangroves in Del Carmen in Siargao Islands, Surigao Del Norte. OMF’s One For Trees (OFT) program, in partnership with the local government of Del Carmen and people’s organization Kaanib ng mga Mangingisda at Magsasaka ng Numancia (KAMAMANA) aims to uphold the importance of wetlands in the western part of the teardropshaped island.

Regus to open flexible workplace at Doña Elena Tower in Sta. Mesa REGUS, a global brand for flexible workspaces, said Friday it will open its first facility at Doña Elena Tower, a bustling 11-story building in Sta. Mesa, Manila.

Regus at Doña Elena Tower will offer a range of flexible spaces, including private office spaces, coworking areas, virtual offices and well-equipped meeting rooms, all designed for comfort and productivity.

Happy Coral Way Realty Corp. (HCWRC) and International Workplace Group (IWG), owner of the Regus brand, formalized their partnership on Sept. 22, 2023.

SN Aboitiz’s battery project begins operation

By Alena Mae S. Flores SN ABOITIZ Power Corp. (SNAP), the joint venture of Norwegian firm Scatec and Aboitiz Power Corp., said Friday its 24-megawatt Magat battery energy storage system project in Isabela started commercial operations after receiving a provisional authority to operate (PAO) from the Energy Regulatory Commission.

The project broke ground in April 2022, completed construction in July 2023 and concluded testing and commissioning with the grid operator in December 2023.

SNAP said it would operate the BESS project primarily for ancillary services in the Luzon grid and started its commercial operation in the reserve market on Jan. 26, 2024. It received the PAO certificate on Jan. 17, 2024.

The Magat BESS utilizes liquidcooled lithium-ion batteries and is connected to the grid via a 230-kV power transformer. It is co-located with SNAP’s Magat hydroelectric power plant in Ramon, Isabela.

SNAP president and chief executive Joseph Yu earlier said the Magat BESS was cost around P1.2 billion.

“The rule of thumb is $800,000 to $1 million per MW, but we’re looking for ways to optimize it and reduce the cost. We have a very good team working on it and I’m very optimistic that they should be able to come up with something interesting,” Yu said.

“We are excited about our collaboration with IWG on this project. With Doña Elena Tower as the future home of Regus, we are confident that we can provide flexible and comfortable workspaces that will boost efficiency and adaptability for hybrid work,” said Larry Cochanco, director of Happy Coral Way Realty and Fly Ace Corp.

“This initiative aims to enable businesses to elevate their work environments while fostering adaptability for hybrid work setups. Our overarching objective

is to provide Filipinos with all-inclusive, digitally-equipped, and inviting working spaces,” said IWG country manager and senior vice president Lars Wittig.

Doña Elena Tower is one of the most highly anticipated real estate projects in Manila, particularly for its suitability as a hybrid workspace. Its prime location is a standout feature, with close proximity to the entry and exit ramps of Skyway Stage 3 and seamless connectivity to the public transport system, linking EDSA through Shaw Boulevard.

Doña Elena Tower is a modern and sustainable building that offers innovative features and specifications. It offers spacious parking areas and high-security standards, making it a perfect environment for businesses to thrive.

The facility is installed with a dual 24/7 generator system that provides continuous power supply in case of emergencies and fiber optic-ready cabling that allows fast and reliable internet connectivity to ensure uninterrupted operations.

BANKING INNOVATOR.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp.

(RCBC) executive vice president and chief innovation and inclusion officer Lito Villanueva is named Philippines Innovator of the Year-Banking category at the inaugural Asian Management Excellence Awards of the Asian Business Review. The award recognizes his role in accelerating digital banking and financial inclusion in the country.

efit of consumers,” Gatchalian said in a statement.

He made the call as the National Power Corp. (NPC) proposed another round of higher power rates in off-grid areas amid higher fuel costs.

Gatchalian said that while the NPC already committed to focusing on hybridization and veering away from buying new diesel generator sets, it is important to accelerate the hybridization of off-grid areas.

NPC earlier said hybridization is expected to result in savings ranging from

P0.75 to P1 per kilowatt-hour.

Gatchalian said hybridization would help ensure a steady supply of energy in off-grid areas and wean the country from its dependence on imported fuel.

“Hybridization would help increase the volume of renewable energy and thus would help ensure energy efficiency and security, which are vital in jumpstarting economic development in these areas,” he said.

NPC operates at least 281 mostly diesel-fired SPUG power plants across the country. Alena Mae S. Flores

Basic teams up with Japan’s Renova to develop 50-MW Mabini wind project BASIC Energy Corp. signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Japan’s Renova Inc. for the joint development of the 50-megawatt Mabini wind project in Mabini, Batangas.

Renova, a publicly-listed company incorporated on May 30, 2000, is known as one of the leading players in the growing renewable energy market in Japan.

Basic said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange the signing of the MOU is the initial and definitive step towards the joint development and shareholders agreement (JDSHA) with Renova.

The JDSHA will cement Renova’s and Basic’s partnership, through its

wholly owned subsidiary Mabini Energy Corp. as the special purpose vehicle of the Mabini wind project.

This followed the Basic board’s approval for management to sign the MOU on Jan. 29, 2024.

“The MOU signing comes after Renova saw the potential viability of the project based on its initial and ongoing due diligence review of the data gathered from the met mast installed in the project area as well as those gathered from the LIDAR system procured MEC back in 2023,” Basic said.

The Mabini wind project is covered

by Wind Energy Service Contract No. 2021-01-142 issued by the Department of Energy. Alena Mae S. Flores

P

HILIPPINE stocks rallied Friday to close above the 6,700 resistance level on sharp rebound in US markets.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index climbed 84.24 points, or 1.27 percent, to close at 6,707.25, while the broader all-shares index advanced 30.79 points, or 0.88 percent, to finish at 3,516.82.

US shares bounced back overnight as tech firms posted stronger-thanexpected financial results.

“Philippine shares surged with Wall Street’s recovery following the Fed day sell-off,” Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said.

All sectoral indices ended in the green with financials and industrial leading the gainers, except for property, which declined by 0.57 percent.

Value turnover reached P5.6 billion.

Meanwhile, Asian stock markets rose Friday, tracking a surge on Wall Street fueled by bargain-buying from the previous day’s sell-off, while strong earnings from tech titans soothed worries about the impact of higher interest rates on bottom lines.

Disappointment over the Federal Reserve’s warning this week that borrowing costs would not likely be cut in March was tempered by the knowledge they are all but certain to come down this year.

Data indicating a softening US labor market—jobless claims rose and private-sector jobs creation came in below forecasts—added to the optimism that the central bank will move several times before 2025.

“Traders are not letting go of the possibility of an earlier-than-expected rate cut,” said Fawad Razaqzada of City Index and Forex.com.

“Those expectations could rise further if incoming US data from now on takes a bearish turn.”

All eyes are now on the release later Friday of the crucial non-farm payrolls report, particularly after Fed boss Jerome Powell suggested decision-makers could be swayed by a particularly big miss on key indicators.

“It could be Frantic Friday on any NFP beats or misses but an extremely bullish one if the jobs report shows a jump higher in the unemployment rate that justifies a March cut,” said SPI Asset Management’s Stephen Innes. With AFP

Tobacco farmers seek protection at WHO meeting

Gatchalian pushes hybrid power supply for off-grid areas SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian on Friday asked the government to fast-track the hybridization of off-grid areas to shield consumers from global oil price volatilities.

Hybridization means using hybrid technologies such as diesel with solar or other RE sources to provide power to far-flung areas.

“It’s important for the government to facilitate an accelerated hybridization of off-grid areas to enable small power utilities group [SPUG] to provide affordable electricity rates for the ben-

By Jenniffer B. Austria

DENTAL HEALTH. A child receives free oral care kits from Colgate Philippines during the 20th Annual National Dental Health Month on Jan. 28, 2024 at the Mall of Asia Music Hall. Colgate, the leading oral health brand in the Philippines, teamed up with the Philippine Dental Association (PDA) to celebrate the annual campaign to encourage dental professionals, students, relevant government agencies and professional organizations to reach out to more individuals who lack access to dental care.

FILIPINO tobacco farmers, counting on a government roadmap to expand production and the regulation of of less harmful cigarette alternatives, asked government delegates to advocate for their livelihood at the upcoming World Health Organization’s conference on global tobacco control.

Delegates from around the world will meet in Panama City, Panama on Feb. 5-10, 2024 for the 10th Conference of the Parties (COP) to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC).

The global treaty plays a key role in shaping international tobacco policies, but farmer groups are concerned about its potential impact on their way of life.

“Our lives are deeply intertwined with tobacco farming,” said Leonardo Montemayor, a former agriculture secretary and board chairman of the Federation of Free Farmers.

“It is a way of life and our means of survival amid harsh economic headwinds. With the Department of Agriculture roadmap affirming its long-term support for tobacco farming, we hope that the Philippine government will take that commitment to heart when championing our industry in this upcoming COP,” said Montemayor.

Saturnino Distor, president of the Philippine Tobacco Growers Association, said the Philippine delegation can effectively advocate for farmers by aligning with the Department of Agriculture roadmap, the Sustainable Tobacco Enhancement Program (STEP).

STEP is a strategic initiative towards boosting indigenous tobacco cultivation particularly in Mindanao.

BUSINESS

B4

SATURDAY,FEBRUARY 3, 2024

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

Japanese firm hiring over 3,000 new employees B ROTHER Industries Philippines Inc., the local subsidiary of a Japanese printer and equipment maker, opened an expanded manufacturing facility in Batangas province that will generate more than 3,000 new jobs.

Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual led the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the factory which he described as a positive development for the manufacturing sector.

He said that from its current 9,000 Filipino employees, Brother’s third factory would add over 3,000 new jobs and boost the economy.

Brother Industries Philippines is a subsidiary of Brother Industries Ltd., a Japanese multinational corporation and a leading manufacturer of printers, sewing machines and other office equipment.

Operating in the Philippines for 12 years, Brother Industries Philippines is one of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority’s locators and a major manufacturer of printers and other office equipment.

The company expansion is set to increase its production capacity to meet the growing demand for its products.

Pascual also affirmed the Department of Trade and Industry’s strong efforts to create an enabling environment for investments.

“We are actively showcasing our skilled workforce, strategic location and generous investment incentives to the world, tailoring opportunities to fit

New power plants expected to ease WESM prices—ERC

the needs of global investors such as Brother Industries Philippines Inc.,” said Pascual.

The DTI chief said the government implemented transformative initiatives to attract investments such as the implementation of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Act. The law reduced corporate income tax rates, streamlined tax administration and provided various investment incentives.

Pascual also noted the department’s digital efforts aligned with the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Act. He said the DTI continuously boosted its online services platforms to make it easier for businesses to start and operate in the Philippines.

He expressed optimism for Brother’s future endeavors and reiterated the government’s support for businesses that contribute to the country’s economic growth.

“The DTI fully supports businesses in their vision for continued growth and expansion. We are committed to providing a supportive and enabling environment for companies like Brother Industries Philippines Inc. to thrive,” Pascual said.

Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual (center) leads the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the third factory of Brother Industries Philippines Inc. in Batangas province. With Pascual are (from left) Brother Industries Ltd. president Ichiro Sasaki, Tanauan Mayor Nelson Collantes, Brother Industries Philippines Inc. president Hiroki Yamamoto, Brother Industries Ltd. managing executive officer Taizo Murakami, Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) director-general Tereso Panga and Brother Industries senior managing executive officer Satoru Kuwabara.

BPI’s 2023 income soared 30.5% to record P51.7b

By Jenniffer B. Austria BANK of the Philippine Islands (BPI), the lending arm of Ayala Corp., saw its 2023 net income soar to an all-time high of P51.7 billion, up 30.5 percent from P39.6 billion in 2022, driven by record revenues and lower provisions which offset the increase in operating expenses.

Minus the impact of the one-off gain from the 2022 property sale, net income would be higher by 44.1 percent, the company said in a stock exchange filing Friday.

BPI said fourth quarter net income also jumped 44.3 percent year-onyear to P13.1 billion led by higher revenue growth and lower provisions recognized.

“The bank’s solid financial performance is a reflection of its strengthened customer franchise and deeper customer engagement which

manpower, technology and marketing costs.

BPI booked provisions of P4 billion in 2023, down 56.4 percent from last year as asset quality remained strong.

Total loans reached P1.9 trillion, a 10.5-percent increase over the previous year, on strong growth across all portfolios while deposits went up 9.5 percent to P2.3 trillion, mainly from the growth in time deposits which tempered the decline in current and savings accounts (CASA).

Total assets grew 10.9-percent to P2.9 trillion, while total equity stood at P357.2 billion BPI fully merged with Robinsons Bank Corp. on Jan. 1, 2024. “This merger will expand reach and enrich the overall banking experience of its customers by unlocking synergies within the BPI Group and Gokongwei ecosystems,” BPI said.

PEZA approved P2.21-b investments in January, eyes full-year tally of P250b

By Othel V. Campos

By Alena Mae S. Flores THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) expects the downward trend in wholesale electricity prices to continue this year with the entry of more power plants.

“If the downward trend continues, then, yes, we should expect lower power bills this year especially as capacity increases with entry of new players,” ERC chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta said.

“We are monitoring closely the impact of El Niño as well as use of imported LNG of the gas plants that used to fully rely on Malampaya. These are two factors that could have adverse impact on pricing even as we assure continuous power supply,” Dimalanta said.

ERC noted a downtrend in Wholesale Electricity Spot Market prices after completing its review of the trading recorded in the trading floor of electricity in 2023.

Based on the ERC market analysis released in January 2024, the average effective spot settlement price (ESSP) declined across all grids (Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao) at P6.505 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) by the close of 2023. The ERC said this was lower by more than P1 compared to the average ESSP in 2022 of P7.885 per kWh. The ESSP is the indicative effective price paid by large consumers and distribution utilities for their purchases from WESM for each billing month.

led to record volumes and market share gains in several businesses,” it said.

Total revenues rose 16.7 percent to P138.3 billion year-on-year, on the back of a 22.7-percent increase in net interest income to P104.4 billion, as average asset base expanded 7.7 percent and net interest margin widened 50 basis points to 4.09 percent.

Non-interest income rose 1.5 percent to P34 billion, buoyed by record trading income gains of P5.2 billion, up 37 percent year-on-year.

Fee income declined 3 percent to P28.8 billion. Removing the impact of the 2022 one-off transaction, fee income would be higher by 16.6 percent to P4.1 billion on higher fees from credit cards, various service charges and bancassurance.

Operating expenses increased 19.2 percent to P69.1 billion, led by higher

The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) holds its first board meeting at the Baguio City Economic Zone (BCEZ) from Jan. 25 to 27, 2024. Headed by PEZA director-general Tereso Panga and BCEZ zone administrator Emmanuel Cortero, the board members also witnessed the BCEZ Multi-Purpose Center groundbreaking ceremony alongside company visits to the TI (Philippines) Inc. and Moog Controls Corp. (Philippine Branch).

THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) said Friday it approved P2.21 billion worth of investments in January.

PEZA director-general Tereso Panga said during the agency’s first board meeting at the Baguio City Economic Zone (BCEZ) that he was hoping for bigger project approvals in the coming months.

“We are proud to have closed more than P2 billion worth of investments in the first month for 2024, and confident of securing more investments which are already in PEZA’s pipeline and waiting for approval in the coming months,” he said.

PEZA said it generated $69.62-million exports and 1,337 direct jobs from 12 new and expansion projects, including 7 new ecozone export enterprises, 4 IT enterprises and 1 facilities enterprise

Industry group says Filipinos more excited to travel this year RENEWED optimism for travel, coupled with the rise of experiential and DIY trips, could push outbound Filipino tourism bookings beyond the industry’s target of 4.86 million in 2024, according to the Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA).

Foot traffic at the opening day of the 31st Travel Tour Expo (TTE) 2024 was three to four times higher than in the previous physical expo, PTAA said.

“This is even way, way bigger than the revenge travel during the tail-end of the pandemic,” said Cris Aquino, head of the TTE program committee. “People are incredibly excited to experience

travel in a new perspective.”

Travel professionals and experts observed a surge in purchases of travel-related goods and services in the past six months, spanning all ages and income groups, PTAA said.

PTAA president Evangeline Tankiang-Manotok said the trend is welcome news for Filipinos eager to explore the world again after being restricted for nearly three years due to COVID-19.

“The enthusiasm for travel and to see different places once again is making for a buoyant travel industry, and we at PTAA are very much ready to cater to

the demand,” she said.

“We are pooling together our expertise under one roof to provide Filipino travelers with the best advice and make them realize that there are so many options for them. PTAA’s collective wisdom and many years of experience make this possible,” Manotok said.

TTE 2024 serves as a marketplace for travel deals, featuring over 200 exhibitors with 702 booths, including airlines, domestic and international travel agencies, tour operators, hotels and resorts, cruise lines, shipping companies, and more. Othel V. Campos

Softer inflation seen boosting household spending by 6.4% this year—research firm

DEALER FINANCING. Security Bank Corp. and Epson Philippines Corp. team up to offer a special financing program to Epson’s distributors and their dealers nationwide. Signing the memorandum of agreement are (from left) Security Bank executive vice president and wholesale banking segment head John Cary Ong, executive vice president and director Juichi Umeno, Epson Philippines president and director Masako Kusama and head of sales Eduardo Bonoan.

HOUSEHOLD spending in the Philippines is projected to grow 6.3 percent in 2024 on easing inflation, according to BMI, a Fitch Solutions Company.

“Household spending growth will be more positive, relative to 2023, as economic growth persists, and consumption levels normalize,” BMI said in a report dated Feb. 1.

It said that in real terms, the value of household spending would amount to P12.8 trillion in 2024.

“We hold a positive outlook for consumer spending in the Philippines over 2024, as the economic recovery feeds

through to strong real consumer spending growth over the year,” BMI said.

“Our forecast for year-on-year growth in consumer spending in the Philippines over 2024 is in line with our country risk team’s forecast that the economy will grow by a real rate of 6.2 percent y-o-y over the year,” BMI said.

The Philippine economy, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP), expanded by 5.6 percent in 2023, slower than the government’s target range of 6 percent to 7 percent.

The government expects a GDP growth of between 6.5 percent and 7.5 percent in 2024. Darwin G. Amojelar

in January.

The new and expansion projects are in Cavite Economic Zone (CEZ), Cavite Technopark-Special Economic Zone (SEZ), Laguna Technopark, Lima Technology Center-SEZ, Carmelray Industrial Park II-SEZ, Laguna Technopark Annex-SEZ, First Philippine Industrial Park, Giga Tower Bridgetowne IT Park in Quezon City, Southwoods Mall in Laguna City, Panorama Tower in Bonifacio Global City and Jazz IT Center in Makati City.

PEZA aims to generate P250 billion investments in 2024, after it ended 2023 with P175.7 billion worth of investments.

Panga said it approved P175.7-billion investments in 2023, up by 24.88 percent from P140.7 billion in 2022.

The number of projects also grew by 20.10 percent to 233 from 194.

ICTSI completes sale of 80% stake in Indonesian unit

By Darwin G. Amojelar INTERNATIONAL Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) said Friday it concluded the sale of 80.19-percent interest in Indonesian subsidiary PT ICTSI Jasa Prima Tbk (IJP) to PT Sarana Kelola Investa.

ICTSI said the move is part of its strategy to streamline operations and concentrate on full concession contracts where it holds complete control. The transaction, signed on Jan. 22, amounted to $2 million.

PT ICTSI Jasa Prima Tbk is a listed company in Indonesia engaged in the development, construction and operation of terminals and maritime logistic infrastructure.

Meanwhile, ICTSI said in a separate statement International Longshore and Warehouse Union and ICTSI Oregon Inc. jointly announced that they reached a settlement of all legal claims.

“Specifically, the settlement finally resolves all ICTSI’s claims against ILWU relating to the decade-long litigation captioned ICTSI Oregon, Inc. v. International Longshore and Warehouse Union, et al., Case No. 3:12-cv1058-SI, pending in the United States District Court for the District of Oregon, in which a jury determined that ILWU and ILWU Local 8 engaged in unlawful labor practices,” ICTSI said.

C1

SPORTS

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2024

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

Bumina-ang seeks ONE contract in bid for 4th win WITH his eyes on the prize, Carlo Von “The Bull” Bumina-ang believes that he’s just one win away from his dream of landing a ONE Championship contract.

And he can inch closer to that goal as he returns to action this 2024 at ONE Friday Fights 50 this Friday at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok.

Thailand.

Bumina-ang takes on unbeaten Chinese bantamweight stud Xie Zhipeng looking for his fourth straight victory.

“Hopefully they give me a contract with another win. But more so than the wins, I know they’re looking at my performance before they give me that six figure contract,” he said, well aware of the stakes for him in this match.

“I’m just focused on getting that victory, getting that contract will follow in the future if I continue winning.”

The Team Lakay upstart has been very impressive since his debut in The Home of Martial Arts, winning his last three matches including his last – a two-punch knockout of Ilyas Dursun in just 23 seconds at ONE Friday Fights 44.

But he’s not settling as he knows that there’s a sea of difference between fighting in this stage and being a contracted ONE athlete.

“I always sharpen everything, from my striking, grappling and wrestling so I’m prepared for whoever I face on that stage,” he said, exuding confidence on the training that he has undergone under coach Mark Sangiao.

“Now we’re back to basics. We’re bringing the same habit that they used to have back then, the very reason why they reached those heights. It’s just hard work. When it comes to experience, I believe we have experienced coaches here and now it’s all about hard work.”

Keziah Bien Ablaza of the Perpetual Lady Altas spinners celebrates after her team won over the San Beda Red Lioness in the finals, 3-2, to clinch its first NCAA Women’s Division table tennis title on Thursday.

Dennis Abrina

Perpetual makes history, bags 2 table tennis titles

By Dennis Abrina

T

HE Perpetual Lady Altas and Junior Altas spinners made history as they dethroned the defending champion San Beda University paddlers on Thursday at the Emilio Aguinaldo College Sports Center in Ermita, Manila.

The Las Pinas City-based women’s team, composed of Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player Chrisien Mae Santillan, Keziahbien Ablaza, Patrica Luca, Trisha May Plurad, Zada Marie Bocala and Charmaine Glorioso, outsmarted the seven-time champion San Beda U team via a 3-2 score in the finals to claim its first crown in the women’s division of the National Collegiate Athletic Association Season 99 Table Tennis Tournament.

On the other hand, the Junior Atlas table netters, bannered by Freshman of the Year and MVP Gerald Aguilar, outclassed the defending champion Red Cubs, 3-1.

Carlo Von ‘The Bull’ Bumina-ang

Curry, Davis among NBA All-Star reserves NEW YORK—Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry gained a 10th NBA All-Star nod and Lakers star Anthony Davis a ninth as reserves for the mid-season showcase were announced on Thursday.

Coaches chose the seven reserves from each conference, with Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns both selected in the West.

Kawhi Leonard and Paul George of the Los Angeles Clippers and Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns were also named to the West squad which will be captained by 20-time All-Star LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers.

The East reserves include three firsttimers in Philadelphia’s Tyrese Maxey, Orlando’s Paolo Banchero and the New York Knicks’ Jalen Brunson.

The Knicks’ Julius Randle was also named a reserve along with Boston star Jaylen Brown, Cleveland’s Donovan Mitchell and Miami’s Bam Adebayo.

All-Star starters, selected by a combination of fan voting and voting by a media panel and by players, were named last month.

Four-time NBA champion James broke the record he had shared with another Lakers legend, Kareem AbdulJabbar, with his 20th selection.

James will captain and join a starting lineup that also includes Phoenix’s Kevin Durant and Serbian center Nikola Jokic, a two-time MVP from the defending champion Denver Nuggets. AFP

The win finally redeemed the team after the post-James Diocareza era lost in the finals to San Beda in Season 95, before the league was temporarily suspended due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

It was the third title for the Altas in the senior section this season following triumphs in chess and men’s beach volleyball while it was the first junior crown of the year by UPHSD. In all, it was the second women’s and juniors crown for the school College of St. Benilde also beat San Beda in the men’s division finals via a 3-1 score, while the Perpetual

The Perpetual Lady Altas spinners receive their trophy.

men’s team clinched 3rd place for the Gabriel Amata, Russel Luna, Aguilar, bronze medal.

James Michael Crom, Jheyron ValenThe Junior Altas is composed of zuela and Ian Tablang.

WADA warning shocks POC General Assembly PHILIPPINE Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino officially informed the body’s General Assembly of an impending World AntiDoping Agency (WADA) suspension on the country unless the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) complies with the international agency’s code.

The presidents or secretary-generals of the 38 national sports associations who attended the assembly on Thursday were shocked.

“Everybody was shocked, but I had to

report to the general assembly because it’s my responsibility,” said Tolentino during Thursday’s General Assembly at the East Ocean Seafood Restaurant in Parañaque City.

“Nobody wanted this for sure, nobody wanted to be in this delicate situation and we are also celebrating our 100 years of participation in the Olympics in Paris,” he said. “So we are all praying and hoping that we comply.”

The Philippines stands the risk of its flag not being flown in Paris because

of the PSC’s non-compliance with the WADA Code.

The PSC in a statement last week said it’s been working on complying with the code and has until February 13 to complete the task.

Non-compliance, the WADA stressed in its notification to the PSC last January 22, would result in the Philippine flag banned from the Olympics Paralympic Games, Asian Games and Para Games, Southeast Asian Games and Para Games and world championships.

Non-compliance would also ban the country from hosting international competitions.

“We [POC leadership] were totally uninformed of the WADA issue. They [PSC] didn’t even approach us for help, maybe we can do something,” Tolentino said. “The clock is ticking and it’s only 11 days to go.”

“It’s sad and disappointing if that happens because all our athletes are religiously training to qualify for the Olympics,” Tolentino said. “We’re hoping it’s not too late yet.”

Maraño brings veteran act to PNVF Champions League VETERAN Aby Maraño vowed to play her best for her new team Chery Tiggo in the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Champions League that starts with the women’s tournament this Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila.

“To be the champions,” Maraño told a packed Philippine Sports Commission Conference Room during the Champions League press launch on Friday. “I and my new team won’t allow our hardship and dedication in training to go waste.”

Maraño, a veteran at 31, is one of the stars to watch out for in the five-team women’s play of the Champions League organized by the PNVF under president Ramon “Tats” Suzara and secretarygeneral Donald Caringal.

Joining Maraño on centerstage in the press launch was fellow club team player Rem Palma of Petro Gazz as well as the team captains and lead players of defending champion College of Saint Benilde, Cignal HD and Philippine Army.

Aby Maraño

“It’s a wide-open field as all teams pions League. “With a balanced cast of vow to wage strong fights,” said Car- seasoned pro clubs, new-look squads ingal of the third edition of the Cham- and collegiate teams, expect the

matches to be a toss-up for the prestigious title.”

Chery Tiggo and Cignal play in Sunday’s double-header at 6 p.m. after the duel between Philippine Army and Petro Gazz at 3:30 p.m.

Saint Benilde opens its campaign against Petro Gazz Monday.

Reigning champion Cignal HD, meanwhile, is favored in the eight-team men’s contest that starts on February 11.

With Cignal HD in Pool A are PGJC Philippine Navy, Savouge Spin Doctors and Saint Benilde while VNS Asereht Griffins, Iloilo D’Navigators, Philippine Air Force and Philippine Army are in Pool B. Besides Maraño, the Kungfu Reyescoached Chery Tiggo will also parade former F2 Logistics star Ara Galang and former Premiere Volleyball League MVP Mylene Paat and Eya Laure.

Cignal and Petro Gazz will also have former F2 players libero Dawn Macandili and Myla Pablo—a former Angel and PVL MVP.

PROPERTY

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2024

extrastory2000@gmail.com JOEL D. LACSAMANA, Editor

Federal Land blends nature, urban vibes in Riverpark R

JOY OF CYCLING.

Intrepid bikers check out the 1.8km bike trail of Riverpark.

EAL estate developer Federal Land, Inc. recently unveiled Riverpark, a master-planned new city that not only fulfills the desire for a unique urban lifestyle, but also stands as a testament to Federal Land’s commitment to shaping dynamic communities.

New township amenities Federal Land has introduced two additions to Riverpark, its largest township development to date.

Together with the General Trias, Cavite local government, Federal Land set up distinctive entry signage facing the Open Canal Interchange. The signage serves as a gateway to a community that prioritizes a life immersed in the beauty of nature.

A 1.8km bike trail serves as a tangible proof of concept, designed to bring residents and guests alike together as they explore the potential of the community through its activated spaces in the heart of nature.

Riverpark Trails, highly accessible via major thoroughfares, promises families the joy of cycling and the great outdoors, all within 40 minutes from Metro Manila via SLEX, MCX, or CAVITEX. The bike trail is part of a larger network of open spaces in Riverpark.

The 600-ha township is set to dedicate 70-ha to parks and greenways. A Central Park serves as a green highway that seamlessly connects the north and south end of the development, as well as

Sustainable digs in Southern Luzon PH1 World Developers (PH1WD) is ramping up standards in sustainable housing with its newest horizontal property development in Trece Martires, Cavite.

The groundbreaking for the development was kicked off last week, on the heels of the introduction of Northscapes—PH1WD’s first horizontal offering in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan (Northscapes SJDM). PH1WD is a subsidiary of engineering and infrastructure innovator Megawide.

PH1WD Landscapes general manager Eric Gregor Tan detailed the unit offerings of Northscapes SJDM: the single-attached “Elia,” the townhouse end-unit “Salana,” and the middleunit townhouse “Alba.”

He confirmed that “all will have two storeys with three bedrooms each and are priced from P3 million to P8 million.”

Soon, he added, the City of Trece

provide residents with plenty of space to unwind, congregate, and cultivate lasting connections. The park is planned to feature various trekking and jogging paths, lush Japanese gardens, and a bamboo forest reminiscent of the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto, Japan.

River of life Among the developments of Riverpark is Yume, which stands out as the embodiment of Japaneseinspired living. Developed by Federal Land NRE Global Inc. (FNG), Yume seamlessly integrates into Riverpark, offering 296 lots that fuse Filipino creativity with Japanese expertise.

Looking ahead, Riverpark’s roadmap for the next 5-10 years includes the completion of the CALAX Cavite Segment in 2024*, establishing the estate as a highly accessible nextgen city. The construction of SM City General Trias, promises convenience and retail excellence. These are just the first steps: Riverpark envisions the introduction of an Adventure Park, a partner school, and a church, solidifying its commitment to a vibrant, purposeful living experience.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS. Stephen S. Comia (Federal Land Inc. Project Development Group Head); Francisco H. Suarez (GT Capital Holdings Executive Vice President & Chief Finance Officer); Hon. Congressman Antonio Ferrer of the 6th District of Cavite; Yusuke Hirano (Federal Land NRE Global Inc. Vice Chairman); Hon. Mayor Luis ‘Jon-Jon’ Ferrer IV of General Trias; Thomas F. Mirasol (Federal Land President and Chief Operating Officer); Hon. Vice Mayor Jonas Glyn P. Labuguen of General Trias; and Councilor Martin Ferrer.

HASSLE-FREE LIVING EXPERIENCE AT MYTOWN.

Martires will also experience the company’s unique “energy efficiency” concept that incorporates energy-saving features into the structure of each unit. SolarSave energy panels will ensure each home can utilize solar energy and lessen electricity bills while reducing carbon footprint.

ResiShade tinted windows will prevent excessive sunlight and heat from seeping into the unit.

TropiCool insulated walls will protect the interior from scorching outdoor temperatures, keeping homes cool given the area’s tropical climate.

Premium, In City Line

CENTURY Properties Group (CPG), recently announced plans to launch projects in the first half of 2024 under its Premium, In City Line.

First to be launched for this quarter, is

“The Hotel Residences at Acqua” in Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila. Leveraging the success of Acqua Private Residences, this project offers move-in ready, hotelfitted and fully furnished suites.

Second, CPG will launch its first midrise 12-storey residential development at Azure North in San Fernando, Pampanga, with the first tower offering 375 units.

The development will have a sprawling multi-feature water-park amenities, adding a unique dimension to resort living. Azure Urban Resort Residences, situated in Bicutan, Parañaque City, redefines beachfront living with its largescale man-made beach concept. This tropical-inspired community boasts both outdoor and indoor beach-inspired amenities.

The Azure Wave Pool (Shown in photo) , equipped with a wave machine creating beach-like waves, adds an exhilarating touch. Azure North by Century Properties will be a resortinspired residential development in the heart of Pampanga. Building on the success of Azure Urban Resort Residences in the South, Azure North aims to extend the allure of a coastal haven to more Filipino condo buyers.

Developed by Philippines Urban Living Solutions (PULS), a part of the SM Group, MyTown redefines affordable urban living for young professionals with 14 properties in Metro Manila, particularly near Bonifacio Global City and Makati CBDs, transportation hubs, and commercial centers. “MyTown’s target demographic typically includes young professionals, expats, students, and individuals seeking convenient, communityfocused living arrangements in Metro Manila,” said Jogee Arellano, CEO, MyTown.

Incorporating a unique blend of features that sets MyTown apart from other co-living spaces in Metro Manila, it extends beyond the provision of living spaces, providing a holistic lifestyle experience for its tenants. MyTown co-living spaces offer amenities tailored to various preferences and lifestyles including roof decks, a basketball half-court, a boxing gym, and fitness gyms to KTV rooms, a music room, indoor cinemas, lounges, and worklabs.

REDEFINING EMPLOYEE HOUSING. Aboitiz InfraCapital recently

launched “The Pods at LIMA,” a 600-bed dormitory built for employees of locators within LIMA Estate. Key locators within LIMA Estate have partnered with Aboitiz InfraCapital by leasing beds within The Pods at LIMA. Epson Precision Philippines, Inc. and Furukawa Automotive Systems LIMA Philippines have respectively leased 414 and 198 beds. The Pods at LIMA offers residents a comfortable and community-focused living experience. Common amenities include a canteen, mess hall, laundry facilities, and commercial areas, designed to promote a sense of community and convenience within the dynamic LIMA Estate. Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates is planning stages the second phase of The Pods, featuring an expanded capacity of 2,500 beds for locator employees.

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AGRICULTURE

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2024

agriculture.manilastandard@gmail.com PATRICIA TACULAO-DELIGERO, Editor

Bohol Bee Farm in Dauis

Bohol to host 7th farm tourism conference A FTER a five-year lull due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Provincial Government of Bohol is hosting the resumption of the Philippine Farm Tourism Conference set at The Bellevue Resort in Panglao on Feb. 26 to 28. Now, on its 7th edition, the international event is organized by the International School of Sustainable Tourism (ISST) and supported by the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) based in Los Baños, Laguna.

DTI-led exhibit of agricultural produce and by-products under its One Town One Product program and a farm tour, which will visit notable farm tourism sites.

Conference topics include the hospitality industry embracing the sustainable farm-to-table concept, processing fruits and vegetables – key to food security, proper marketing and revenue, value-added benefits of artisanal fisheries, the revival of the country’s multi-million seaweeds industry, the pampano fish as the upcoming star of aquaculture, and green investment in agriculture and tourism in the Asian setting.

The conference will also confer the 4th Lakbay Bukid Awards to five local and foreign individuals and organizations who contributed to Asian farm tourism development.

Bohol’s first district congressman, Edgar Chatto, noted that the event is an opportunity to showcase the island Themed “Farm Tourism: Consciousness province as the country’s first UNESCO for Healthy Living and New Experiences,” Global Geopark in 2023, recognizing the conference will showcase lessons from its rich terrestrial and marine attributes the pandemic and share best practices spread out in an 8,808-sq km area. that seek to provide social and economic Chatto, the House of Representatives’s empowerment to communities.

Chairperson of the Climate Change The event is also supported by the Committee, will also be one of the resource ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, the persons in the three-day gathering.

Department of Tourism, the Tourism Participants will immerse in farm sites Promotions Board, the Department such as Loboc Cacao Farm, Asin Tibuok of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries makers in Albuquerque, Kinaiyahan and Aquatic Resources, the Philippine Forest Park in Bilar, Lasang Cacao Farm Exporters Confederation (Philexport), the in Maribojoc, Green Thumb Farm in Department of Trade and Industry, and Corella, South Farm in Panglao, Bohol Asin Tibuok makers of Alburquerque Philippine Airlines as the official carrier.

Bee Farm in Dauis, Manay’s Farm in According to ISST president Mina San Miguel, Ubay Dairy Farm, and Jagna Gabor, this year’s conference will focus on sustainable growth Recycling Facility and Eco Farm. through fruit and vegetable farm cultivation, aquaculture and The group will also visit the province’s iconic attractions of artisanal fisheries, and green investments in farm tourism.

Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella and the Chocolate Hills Park in The former tourism chief said that the confab will also have a Carmen.

Bataan legislated multi-purpose marine hatchery breaks ground

The multi-purpose marine hatchery aims to improve the capacity of aquafarm operators in Bataan to meet the demand for fish seed.

A HISTORIC groundbreaking ceremony of a Legislated Multi-Purpose Marine Hatchery was held in Brgy. Quinawan, Bagac, Bataan, this Jan. 26.

The ceremony was led by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) of the Department of Agriculture (DA) led by BFAR Region 3 Regional Director Wilfredo Cruz as BFAR National Director Demosthenes R. Escoto’s representative.

The project was made possible

by Republic Act 11912, or “An Act Establishing a Multi-Species Marine Hatchery in the Municipality of Bagac, Bataan.”

In the message of DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., shared by DA RFO 3 Regional Executive Director Crispulo G. Bautista, Jr., he thanked the provincial government of Bataan, the local government of Bagac, BFAR, and

DENR-CENRO for their cooperation in this initiative.

He also mentioned the vital role of SHAREMAX Holdings Inc. in providing one hectare of land for the establishment of the hatchery.

This over 30-million-peso project aims to improve the capacity of aquafarm operators in Bataan to meet the demand for fish seed. It is expected that the hatchery will be the primary source of milkfish fry, seabass fry, giant freshwater prawn or lobster seed stocks, and other high-value species such as pompano, grouper, and red snapper.

Moreover, the hatchery will also feature environmentally friendly operations and new technology such as hybrid design solar-powered equipment, water treatment disposals, and innovative breeding tanks for the bangus. Its design

can guide other operators in the fish hatchery sector to improve fish seed production.

The hatchery will also be an on-site training facility that will provide training on hatchery techniques, fish hatchery management, and new technologies.

It also aims to be a training center for students from schools and universities in Bataan.

After construction, BFAR will manage and provide the necessary knowledge and skills for two years. Through a Memorandum of Agreement, the facility and management will be transferred to the provincial and town governments.

Gov. Jose Enrique Garcia III, Vice Gov. Maria Christina Garcia, Mayor Rommel Del Rosario, and other Bataan provincial and town government officials were also part of the ceremony.

Kinaiyahan Forest Park in Bilar

The MOU between the Philippines and Vietnam creates a framework for the promotion of sustainable rice trade cooperation

DA inks cooperation agreement with Vietnam AGRICULTURE Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. signed a memorandum of understanding with Minister Nguyen Hong Dien of the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Vietnam to enhance cooperation on rice trade. The MOU creates a framework for promoting sustainable rice trade cooperation that meets the common interests of the Philippines and Vietnam. Under the MOU, Vietnam commits to supply the Philippines with 1.5 to 2 million metric tons of white rice annually.

For five years, the two agencies will also pursue other cooperation activities, such as exchanging information on rice production, crop situation, and import and export needs, among other actions. The DA and the Ministry of Industry and Trade will also cooperate to ensure that rice from Vietnam complies with the Philippines’ food safety and plant health requirements.

To further facilitate smooth trade and help ensure food security, the two ministries agreed to closely coordinate to address illegal rice trade and consult with each other ahead of any imposition of export measures that could hinder or delay exportations.

“While DA is focused in improving capacities for increased agricultural productivity, it is equally imperative to maintain a robust trade to help ensure food security, in particular, the supply of rice, especially in challenging times,” says Tiu Laurel.

He added, “Vietnam is an important trading partner of the Philippines in agricultural commodities. It is, in fact, our third-largest trading partner in the ASEAN region in terms of overall value of agricultural trade.

Around 80 percent of our rice imports are from Vietnam, and the Philippine market accounts for over 40 percent of Vietnam’s rice exports.”

Aside from cooperation on the rice trade, the Department also formalized the agreement on cooperation in agriculture with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Tiu Laurel and Le Minh Hoan agreed to strengthen existing agriculture bilateral relations and update the previous cooperation agreement signed in 1999. The new memorandum of understanding will promote and intensify mutual support between the Philippines and Vietnam in areas covering high-value crops, livestock (including dairy), and aquaculture production and development; postharvest facilities and food processing; digital and climate-smart agriculture; agri-fisheries mechanization; among others.

During his bilateral meeting with Minister Le Minh Hoan, Tiu Laurel articulated, “The Philippines puts high importance on its bilateral relations with Vietnam in the field of agriculture, and it considers Vietnam a key partner in the effort to transform the agriculture sector of the Philippines as well.”

The two agreements were signed during the State Visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. to Hanoi, Vietnam, on Jan. 29-30, 2024.

Marcos and Vietnam’s President Vo Van Thuong witnessed the exchange of bilateral documents.

On the margins of the State Visit, Secretary Tiu Laurel Jr. also witnessed the signing of memoranda of agreements and understanding between three Philippine and eight Vietnamese enterprises on rice supply and food value chain.

TECH

C4

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2024

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

Immerse in an all-new, elevated online shopping experience with Shopee Video

S Globe Postpaid showcases new OPPO Reno11 Series 5G GLOBE Postpaid is set to further elevate its mobile device offerings with the launch of the newest Portrait Expert, the OPPO Reno11 Series 5G. This initiative strategically combines Globe’s robust communication plans with OPPO’s cutting-edge technology, promising enhanced customer experience.

OPPO Reno11 5G showcases a 6.7’’ AMOLED display, a 50MP main camera with OIS, a 32MP telephoto, an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 32MP front camera with AF. It comes with a 5000mAh battery and supports 67W SUPERVOOCTM Flash Charge. The device operates on a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipset and includes 8GB RAM and 256GB storage.

Meanwhile, OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G boasts a 6.7’’ 3D AMOLED display, a similar camera setup, a 4600mAh battery with 80W SUPERVOOCTM Flash Charge, and is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8200 chipset.

It has 12GB RAM and a substantial 512GB storage.

Both phones are also 5G capable, providing superior network experience on mobile data in terms of speed and latency.

OPPO Reno11 5G is available on GPlan 1799 with minimal cashout of PHP1,000, offering 13GB of mobile data. For those seeking the more advanced OPPO Reno11 Pro, GPlan 1999 is an option, requiring a P2,000 cashout and providing 15GB of mobile data.

Both plans, designed to meet the evolving needs of customers, include unlimited texts to all networks and calls to both mobile and landline. This comprehensive connectivity, combined with ample data, ensures a well-rounded communication experience.

Each purchase of the OPPO Reno11 Series 5G under GPlan comes with a complimentary pair of OPPO Enco Buds 2 worth PHP2,999, enhancing the overall value of the offer.

The OPPO Reno11 Pro also comes with a complimentary 3 month trial of Gadget Xchange, Globe’s latest gadget protection program that allows subscribers to Switch or Replace their devices, with no questions asked. This Gadget Xchange promo is available until March 31, 2024 only.

HOPEE, the leading e-commerce platform in the Philippines, has elevated the shopping experience through the lens of creativity with Shopee Video, a vibrant space where sellers and buyers can connect, engage, and enjoy a seamless shopping experience through creative content.

The newest addition to Shopee’s content ecosystem gives users the option to both watch and create videos within the Shopee app. Because the shopping experience is seamlessly integrated into the feature, creators can add product links to videos as they share their shopping recommendations, while viewers can easily add items to their cart as they explore an array of entertaining content.

Diving into the endless world of shopping and entertainment Accessing Shopee Video is a breeze —conveniently embedded within the Shopee app, users can simply tap the Shopee Video icon on the bottom navigation bar to instantly immerse in current content trends.

Viewers can seamlessly switch between the Following and Trending tabs to either follow their favorite creators or explore suggested content. Navigation is also made effortless by simply scrolling up or down, while video playback can be controlled with just a single tap on the screen to stop and play videos. Meanwhile, those who wish to refresh the content they see can simply go to the top of their feed and pull it down.

Users can also actively engage with fellow viewers or creators on the platform. They can express appreciation by liking videos, sharing their thoughts through comments, and spreading excitement by sharing the content that caught their attention.

Shopee Video is a vibrant space where sellers and buyers can connect, engage, and enjoy a seamless shopping experience.

From snackable videos brimming with wit and humor, to challenges, hauls, and recommendations across an array of interests, Shopee Video houses a wide collection of entertainment content that keeps viewers hooked on scrolling for more—and adding to their carts.

Attracting viewers with attentiongrabbing content Meanwhile, sellers and creators alike can capture a wider audience through a myriad of ways with Shopee Video.

From showing how products work to taking viewers behind the scenes, here are some ways you can seize your viewers’ attention–—and even convert them into buyers along the way!

Trigger their excitement. Unboxing videos create a sense of anticipation that instantly hooks viewers, while how-to demos feed the viewers’ curiosity and show them how a product can either spark joy or answer their needs.

Such videos can help convert passive viewers into actual purchasers!

Hop on the latest trends. Whether it’s leveraging trending audio, participating in popular challenges, or experimenting with emerging content formats, embracing what’s currently capturing audience attention is one of the easiest ways to stay relevant.

Tap the crowd-favorites. Collaborating with established content creators is a helpful strategy to capture a specific audience and effectively promote a brand. Just be sure to work with content creators whose values align with your brand, and whose style resonates with your target audience.

Create a deeper connection. Bitesized videos are best when it comes to keeping viewers until the end of the video—perfect for sharing deeper narratives in order to build connections.

Foster a vibrant sense of community

and take viewers through your brand’s humble beginnings or bring them behind the scenes to make them feel like they are part of your journey.

Maximize Shopee Video’s creative tools. Add more fun and creativity to videos with readily available transitions and visual effects, stickers, a variety of text options, and even voice effects!

Make it easier for viewers to shop by adding up to six product links so they can add to their cart in just a few clicks.

Kickstart the Shopee Video experience and take part in the 2.2 Shopee Video Festival for a chance to win your dream local vacation! Happening from February 1 to 3, 2024, simply watch videos on the platform for a chance to score roundtrip flight tickets and accommodations to your local destination of choice.

So, what are you waiting for? Explore Shopee Video now and enjoy a whole new shopping experience!

Filipino LGBTQIA+ community app Thundr makes fabulous debut WELCOME to the new age of finding connections!

Launched on January 31 at Salvatore Cuomo & Bar in BGC and hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines alum, Lady Morgana, the event was attended by the press and content creators alike.

Thundr is the first ever Filipino LGBTQIA+ community app in the Philippines that gives a new way to find connection for ages 35 and up. It’s a place where they can meet people of the same age while feeling that they belong.

Show the real you. Create profile and fInd new matches through advance filter questions.

No rejection! Unlike other app, Thundr allows you to swipe everyone in to the community whether as mare or as jowa — putting a new meaning on the old kind of swiping.

A game changer, indeed. See your

Thundr is the first ever Filipino LGBTQIA+ community app in the Philippines

compatibility percetage with your Plus, its easy access to chat convermatch even before you say hello. sation removes the hassle in looking

for the right one.

Thundr prides itself on the effort it actively makes to bring the LGBTQIA+ community together regardless of of how they identify in the spectrum. Gone are the days of gay people staying in the closet and being alienated.

And through its advocacy, Thundr also supports LGBTQIA+ organizations that fight for their rights and welfare.

Age is just a number and it’s never too late to form connections with Thundr.

Just look for Thundr PH on Play Store and soon on App Store.

Please like, follow, and share our socials for news and updates.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=61550648477700&mibexti d=LQQJ4d Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ thundr_ ph?igsh=MWhqdjN2cHhzYjJ6cA %3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thundrph?_t=8jVomAXmbsQ&_r=1

The ‘Toughest Smartphones’ join forces: HONOR, Nokia sign 5G Patent License Agreement GLOBAL tech giants HONOR and Nokia recently signed a new patent cross-license agreement in pursuit of significant inventions in 5G and other cellular technologies.

“We are delighted to have concluded an amicable patent cross-license agreement with HONOR, one of the leading players in the Chinese smartphone market. It is the fourth major litigation-free smartphone agreement that Nokia has concluded over the past twelve months and highlights once again the strength of Nokia’s patent portfolio and decades-long contributions to cellular standards and other technologies,” Nokia Chief Licensing Off icer Mobile Devices Susanna Martikainen said.

“As both 5G SEP holder and implementor, HONOR highly respects IP rights and strongly believes that reasonable value of IP is important to the development of mobile industry. The conclusion of the patent cross-license

Two tech giants HONOR and Nokia just signed a patent agreement for bigger innovations soon

agreement shows HONOR’s commitment on innovation to enabling a smart life across all scenarios and all channels, for all people,” HONOR Head of Global Intellectual Property Wenyu Zhou also shared.

It is very recent that HONOR launched an Ultra-Tough smartphone HONOR X9b 5G shadowing the legacy of the classic Nokia 3310.

HONOR takes pride in providing solutions to consumers’ everyday dilemma and bridge affordability and quality together.

Experience the HONOR X9b 5G now and get yours at HONOR Experience and Partner stores or online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X9b_

PressRelease), Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_ X9b_PressRelease), and TikTok Shop (https:// bit.ly/TikTok_X9b_PressRelease).

Good news for HONOR Fans! You can get your own HONOR X9b 5G with Home Credit and Skyro for 0% interest! Also for Globe Postpaid Subscribers, you can apply or upgrade with GPlan 1299 to enjoy Unli All-net Calls and Text and 8GB All-access Data for a one-time cash out of P3,300 only! Get it online or head over now to any Globe physical store!

To know more about the complete features of HONOR X9b 5G, you may visit: https://bit.ly/ HONORPH_X9b_Pressrelease and head on to HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms for exciting announcements: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok. com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https:// www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

Ultra-Tough smartphone HONOR X9b 5G