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VOL. XXXVII • NO. 354 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES FEBRUARY 4, 2024
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HACKING ON PH SITES FOILED DICT: ATTACKERS TRACED TO CHINA UNICOM, HIT PCG, PBBM’S WEBSITE
By Charles Dantes
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HE country's cybersecurity experts have successfully blocked various hacking attempts coming from within China in a cyberattack that targeted various government email addresses, including that of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the private website of President Marcos, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) reported yesterday. “We were able to detect that the attackers were coming from China Unicom. So, I think we will need to
coordinate with them so that they can help us in this investigation,” DICT Undersecretary Jeff Ian Dy
said partly in Filipino during the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City. China Unicom is a Chinese state-owned telecommunications operator. The cyberattack also tried to breach email systems and internal websites of several government agencies that used Google Workspace in a bid to gather information. Dy said the DICT and Google believe at least three “advanced threat groups” were behind the attack, which he said could also be classified as “cyber espionage” as the motivation was to “gather information.” Dy, however, clarified the DICT
is not accusing China of involvement, only that it found out that the “threat actors were operating from within Chinese territory.” "These did not push through, but they were a type of brute force attack aimed at taking down our Overseas Workers Welfare Administration or OWWA," he added. Dy said the hacking attempt was first reported by Google two weeks ago. The attack on the OWWA website happened earlier and had a different perpetrator whom the DICT traced to be operating in China. He said the government would need to coordinate with Beijing regarding the attempted hijacking.
PREPARING FOR LENT. Rev. Father Jerry Habunal of the Divine Healer Parish Church in Sucat, Parañaqueleads the burning of palm leaves or ‘palaspas’ on Saturday in preparation for this year's Ash Wednesday, slated on Feb. 14. The Catholic rite and tradition marks the beginning of the Lenten season. Norman Cruz
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RAPPORTEUR’S VISIT ‘COUNTERPRODUCTIVE’ NEWS | A2
SECESSION WON’T HELP MINDANAO—ABALOS NEWS | A3
DAVAO LANDSLIDE, FLOOD DEATH TOLL SURGES TO 14
PRESIDENT AS FARMER. President Marcos drives a tractor as he and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel (inset) inspect rice stalks at a field in Candaba, Pampanga on Saturday. PCO Photo
MARCOS URGES DA, FARMERS TO SUSTAIN RECORD RICE YIELD By Othel V. Campos and Charles Dantes AS THE Philippines harvested a record 20 million metric tons of rice last year, President Marcos and Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. urged farmers, local government leaders, and local officials in Pampanga to sustain the push for agricultural modernization and increased food production in the face of the El Niño weather phenomenon. Mr. Marcos on Saturday led the distribution of more than P22 million worth of farm inputs and equipment, rice seeds, fertilizer vouchers, post-harvest facilities, and financial capital to farmers’ cooperatives and for hog repopulation to address the impact on the industry of the African Swine Fever. He said the government has set aside P31
billion this year for DA's national rice program, which is earmarked for post-harvest facilities, extension services, research and development, and irrigation services. In addition, farmers stand to benefit from the P10 billion set aside for the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) in 2024 to purchase machinery and equipment, rice seeds, extension service and credit assistance. The rice harvesters distributed to local farmers were funded from RCEF funds. While the challenge this year to increase food production is the prolonged dry spell brought about by El Nino, the President said interventions are underway to mitigate its impact. The President likewise assured the public that under the rejuvenated agriculture sector, the administration will fix the problem of hunger in the country.
BICOL SOLONS ASK SENATE TO STOP ‘PI’ PROBE, PLEDGE SUPPORT FOR SPEAKER By Maricel V. Cruz A GROUP of legislators from the Bicol Region on Saturday called on the Senate to stop its inquiry into the suspended People’s Initiative (PI) and work instead on passing priority pieces of legislation. Camarines Sur Reps. Luis Raymund Villafuerte, Miguel Luis Villafuerte, and Tsuyoshi Anthony Horibata, and Bicol Saro Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan made the statement in support of the House leadership headed by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez. They asked the Senate to instead focus on Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) 6, filed by
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Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, which aims for reforms in Articles 12, 14, and 16 of the Constitution, addressing restrictions on foreign ownership in public utilities, educational institutions, and the advertising industry. The Bicolano legislators said the Senate hearings on the PI process, “initiated by private groups long yearning for Charter Change, in which the House of Representatives and its leaderships have surprisingly and unfortunately become the subject of the inquiry, contravene inter-parliamentary courtesy and reek of undue interference by members of one chamber in the official acts of legislators belonging to the other.”
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During his address at the ceremonial palay harvesting and assistance distribution in Candaba, Pampanga, Mr. Marcos highlighted the significance of collective effort to achieve a better Philippines, where “everyone moves forward together.” “Our collaborative efforts to develop our agriculture sector are just one of the key steps toward building a 'Bagong Pilipinas'—a nation where hunger is eradicated, and everyone actively works towards a more prosperous future,” he said in Filipino. "We expect that this occasion will signal the steady growth not only of the rice industry, but the entire agriculture sector in the coming months. I'd like to inform you of the triumph that our sector had last year. Because of our combined efforts, we managed to harvest in 2023 a record volume of more than 20 million metric tons of rice,” the President said.
THE death toll from landslides and floods triggered by torrential rain in southern Philippines in the past week rose to 14, official tallies showed Saturday. Rain has pounded parts of Mindanao, the country's second-largest island, on and off for weeks and forced tens of thousands of people into emergency shelters. At least 10 people died in recent days in the mountainous gold mining province of Davao de Oro as it endured relentless downpours. "I haven't experienced that kind of heavy and continuous rain before," provincial information officer Fe Maestre told Agence France-Presse. Of the 10 deaths in Davao de Oro, three were recorded in New Bataan municipality and another four people were killed in landslides in Maragusan and Monkayo municipalities, disaster officials told AFP.
PHILHEALTH: RATE COVERAGE RISE BEGINS FEB. 14 THE Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) on Saturday said the increase in the coverage rates of most of its benefit packages will take effect on Feb. 14. Last November, PhilHealth announced it would increase the rates of its benefits packages up to 30 percent to lessen the out-of-pocket expenses for Filipinos availing of health care services using the state health insurer. PhilHealth spokesperson Rey Baleña told radio DZBB the state firm issued Circular No. 2024-001, which contains the case rates or benefit packages subject to increase or adjustment. Under the circular, which takes effect Feb. 14, PhilHealth adopted an inflation adjustment factor of 30% for existing case rates to account for price changes over the past decade.
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DOLE: CALABARZON WORKERS TO GET P1K WAGE HIKE MORE than 200,000 domestic workers in Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon) will benefit from the wage increase recently approved by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB), the Department of Labor Employment (DOLE) said Saturday. In a statement, the DOLE said a total of 233,909 domestic workers in the region would benefit from the P1,000 salary increase that will take effect on Feb. 19, or 15 days after the publication of the DOLE order. Wage Order No. RB-IVA-DW-04 was approved on Jan. 22 and published in the newspaper on Feb. 3. Under the order, the new monthly minimum wage rates for domestic workers under the live-in arrangement will be P6,000 for cities and first-class municipalities and P5,000 for other municipalities. Of the 233,909 domestic workers, 28 percent or 65,408 are “stay-in.” The last wage order for domestic workers in the region was issued on June 15, 2022, and became effective on July 15, 2022. At least 4.1 million minimum wage earners have benefited from the salary adjustments in 15 regions in 2023, an agency under the DOLE earlier said.
REMEMBERING THE BATTLE FOR MANILA. Manila Mayor Dra. Honey Lacuna speaks during the commemoration of the 79th anniversary of the Battle for Manila which claimed the lives of more than 100,000. Lacuna-Pangan was joined by Ambassador MaryKay Carlson of the United States of America (inset) and the envoys of Canada, New Zealand, the People’s Republic of China, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Australia, and the United Mexican States as they paid their respects at Plazuela de Santa Isabel, where a memorare is built in honor of the war in 1945. K R De Asis/MPIO
KHAN’S VISIT COUNTERPRODUCTIVE, SAYS ANTI-COMMUNIST TASK FORCE By Charles Dantes
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HE National Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Saturday said United Nations Special Rapporteur Irene Khan’s visit to the country is “counterproductive” to the government’s anti-terrorism and peace initiatives. “We strongly reject UNSR Irene Khan’s call for the abolition of the NTF-ELCAC. We take offense in her pronouncements against the Philippine government and the NTF-ELCAC,” NTF-ELCAC Executive Director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres said.
The official also said Khan’s visit to the Philippines is counterproductive. “We felt betrayed. She blindsided the Filipino people,” Torres said. Torres’ remarks came following a day after Khan called for the abolition of the NTF-ELCAC, citing
the initiative as outdated. Despite Khan’s engagements with various government agencies to understand freedom of expression and opinion issues in the country, Torres lamented her failure to comprehend the established and institutionalized mechanisms for anti-terrorism and peace efforts. The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) aimed to showcase to Khan the government’s achievements in press freedom and human rights during Khan 10-day visit. However, Torres said Khan’s visit and subsequent actions hindered rather than facilitated ongoing efforts to address local armed conflict
in the Philippines. Torres accused Khan of coming with an agenda to undermine and demolish the NTF-ELCAC without understanding its essence. He criticized her obvious partiality, stating that the government was “hijacked” because Khan allowed herself to be used by those wanting the government and the NTF-ELCAC to fail. “The NTF-ELCAC is, and will always be relevant. This is something that Khan failed to comprehend,” Torres emphasized. On Friday, the National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said that the NTFELCAC would be open to reforms.
TINGOG DONATES 30 PEDICABS TO TACLOBAN By Maricel V. Cruz THE Tingog party-list has distributed 30 pedicabs to residents at the Romualdez Hall in Brgy. Calanipawan, Tacloban City. In collaboration with the office of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, Tingog party-list Director for Community Engagement Karla Estrada and Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) representative Shirley Nibreja, distributed the pedicabs Thursday afternoon. The joint effort aims to foster diversified livelihood opportunities in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas to deliver immediate essential services and opportunities to the Filipino people. Reps. Yedda K. Romualdez and Jude Acidre are Tingog representatives in the House of Representatives. Acidre said the Diversified Livelihood Project is a commitment to enhancing economic prospects for local communities. He said the distribution of pedicabs is a step towards providing sustainable livelihood.
DSWD WARNS BENEFICIARIES TO STOP PAWNING ATM CARDS By Maricel V. Cruz
TECH PARTNERSHIP. Acting Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairperson Romando Artes and the Princess of Bahrain, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Al Khalifa show a symbolic item of partnership. They also discussed Bahrain’s artificial intelligence program and advanced technology equipment which can help the MMDA’s plan to upgrade its CCTV system. MMDA Photo
BENEFICIARIES of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) risk getting delisted from receiving government subsidies if they keep engaging with loan sharks by pawning their cash cards, the Department of Social Welfare Development (DSWD) said Saturday. “We conduct spot checks during family development sessions that they [4Ps beneficiaries] should bring their ATM because that is not allowed. They can be delisted from the program,” Director Gemma Gabuya, 4Ps program manager, said. Gabuya said 4Ps beneficiaries who are found committing the offense after three warnings shall be removed from the program. She reminded them to abide
by the rules of the conditional cash transfer program if they want to keep receiving government aid. “You have to take care of the resources of the government… you should be the one who models the face of the program,” Gabuya said. The 4Ps National Program Management Office already made recommendations to amend Republic Act 11310 or the 4Ps Law by including provisions to penalize loan sharks and the pawning of cash cards. The 4Ps is the national poverty reduction strategy and a human capital investment program of the government that provides conditional cash transfer to improve the health, nutrition, and the education of children aged 0-18 from poor families.
VP SARA CALLS FOR COMPASSION, SAYS PH IS STILL UNITED VICE President Sara Duterte is urging Filipinos to practice compassion, saying that “the Philippines is an example of unity amid differences.” The Vice President, in a statement, also said: “The Philippines, a tapestry of diverse cultures, traditions, and religions, stands as a shining example of unity amidst differences. Like colors on an artist’s palette, we blend together, harmonizing our faith, goodness, and humility to build a sanctuary of peace.”
Duterte issued the statement for World Interfaith Harmony Week, celebrated from Feb. 1 to Feb. 7. “Today, hand in hand, we walk alongside our Christian, Muslim, and other spiritual siblings, acknowledging our interconnectedness on this profound journey towards unity and serenity,” she added. Duterte encouraged the public to respect differences and practice compassion and kindness. “Together, let us embark on this uni-
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‘TUPAD’ IN LEYTE. Representatives of the Tingog Partylist led the distribution
of Tulong Panghanapbuhay Para sa Ating Disadvantage Workers (TUPAD) to 500 beneficiaries from Tacuranga, Cavite West, Capirawan, Naga, and Canhidoc barangays in Palo, Leyte Friday afternoon. Mayor Remedios Petilla, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) representative Cristina Sevilla, and Tingog Partylist SecretaryGeneral Jonathan Calvara attended the event. TINGOG photo
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FEBRUARY 4, 2023 |
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DOLE RELEASES REVISED RULES ON SERVICE FEES
‘PASINAYA’ DANCERS. Student dancers from Guiguibto, Bulacan perform a “halamanan” dance. Students from different schools (inset) gather at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) in Pasay City on Feb. 3 to participate in the PASINAYA 2024 arts festival. Danny Pata and Norman Cruz
ABALOS SAYS SECESSION WILL NOT SOLVE MINDANAO’S WOES D
By Joel E. Zurbano
EPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. on Saturday said secession is not the solution to Mindanao’s problems, adding that it would violate the basic principles of the Philippine Constitution. Abalos made the statement in reaction to former President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for Mindanao to secede from the rest of the country. “To ensure continued peace,
progress, and development in Mindanao, the Philippines must remain united and undivided,” Abalos said. He added the move would destroy the territorial integrity of the
Philippines, and disrupt decades of painstaking effort to build a stronger union among all our peoples and ethnicities. “The people’s right to selfdetermination should be exercised within the framework of the state. Self-determination means that the people pursue political, economic, social, and cultural development while respecting the state’s territorial integrity and legal process,” Abalos said. Abalos said the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is a powerful example of addressing historical grievances and providing self-
governance within the bounds of Philippine law. Presidential peace adviser Carlito Galvez earlier urged the public to turn away from any action that would destabilize the country, including the former president. Political science professor Dennis Coronacion, in a radio interview, said talks of a campaign for Mindanao to secede from the Philippines is a “flex” by the former president and his political allies. Coronacion added that and any actual move to split the Philippines’ second-largest island from the republic “will likely not prosper.”
TAGUIG, DOST SIGN PACT TO TURN WATER HYACINTHS INTO TEXTILE By Joel Zurbano
‘MAGIC OF LOVE.’ Master illusionist and magician Ivan the Selfie Magician graced the stage in Makati City during his “Magic of Love” show. The show was held in anticipation of Valentine’s Day and the magician’s anniversary in the entertainment industry. Norman Cruz
THE Taguig City government signed an agreement with the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST - PTRI) to provide technology-based textile livelihood opportunities for residents. The partnership was signed on Feb. 1 at the Mercado de Lago Pavillion in Barangay Lower Bicutan. Under the agreement, the DOSTPTRI will introduce technology to turn water hyacinth into textile fiber, teach handloom weaving using PTRI-designed machines, provide equipment, and offer technical as-
‘DIGITALIZATION TO CURB CORRUPTION’ THE Marcos administration’s bid for digital transformation is crucial to curb corruption in government, Malacañang said on Saturday. The government is currently undertaking initiative reforms, including the digitalization of government transactions, to fight corrupt practices, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said in a statement as the Palace welcomed the slight improvement of the Philippines' standing in the 2023 global corruption index. “We consider this result as both a challenge to do better and a reason for hope that the country is headed in the right direction,” Bersamin said. “Earnest efforts are already being undertaken to implement the digital transformation mandate of the administration in order to streamline institutional processes and curtail opportunities for graft and corruption.” The digitalization efforts, he said, are in line
with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for the government "to show in deeds, not in words, that it is deserving of the people's trust.” “With the necessary transformational measures being put in place, let us be optimistic and assured that the government will not fail or falter in its steadfast commitment to effectively provide efficient and transparent public service,” Bersamin added. The Philippines ranked 115th among 180 countries in the 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) of global anti-graft watchdog Transparency International, improving from its 116th ranking in 2022. The country obtained a CPI score of 34 out of 100, a notch higher than its score of 33 in 2022. The 180 countries and territories in the world are scored based on the perceived levels of public sector corruption, with 0 being “highly corrupt” to 100 being “very clean.” Charles Dantes
sistance, skills training, and business development support. The local government of Taguig, on the other hand, will provide space for the machines, training venues, and identify beneficiaries. According to Mayor Laarni Cayetano, the partnership aims to address environmental issues related to water hyacinths and provide livelihood opportunities for disadvantaged and displaced workers. DOST-PTRI Director Dr. Julius Leaño Jr., highlighted the importance of technology, particularly textiles, for vulnerable sectors such as women, youth, persons with disabilities, and even the urban poor.
THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has issued the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for the full and equal distribution of service charges among workers of hotels, restaurants, and other establishments. The revised IRR of Republic Act (RA) 11360 or the Service Charge Law was contained in Department Order (DO) 242, series of 2024 issued on Feb. 1. The amendment aims to improve the distribution of service charges to cover all employees, including those not directly hired by the principal employers, such as “contractual, non-regular or agency workers” serving the covered establishments. The DOLE said the new IRR, which supersedes DO 206, series of 2019, was coherent with the legislative intent of full and equal payment of service charges to all covered employees of service charge-collecting establishments. The new guidelines deleted the phrase “under the direct employ of covered establishments” in Section 2 (a) of the old rules. “Covered employees refer to all employees, except managerial employees as defined herein, regardless of their position, designation, or employment status, and irrespective of the method by which their wages are paid,” read the new IRR.
BFAR EXPECTS LOWER PRICES FOR GALUNGGONG THE Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said prices of fish are likely to decrease in the coming weeks following the lifting of the closed fishing season for round scad (galungggong) in Northern Palawan. The agency also expects that this will result in a boost in supply for round scad in the local market, BFAR Chief Public information Officer Nazzer Briguera, said. As of the latest price monitoring of the Department of Agriculture, local round scad retails at P200 to P320 per kilo, while imported round scad sells for P180 to P260. Asis Perez, former national director of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and noe co-convenor of the livelihood advocacy group Tugon said that the lower price of round scad could also have a domino effect on other agricultural commodities. Briguera, however, said it would take some time before the fresh catch reaches the market.
CASH FOR CHAMPIONS.
Tabaco City Mayor Krisel LagmanLuistro led the distribution of cash incentives to academic and sports champions of the Tabaco National High School. Norman Cruz
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IN BRIEF HUGE ‘BALL OF FIRE’ KILLS THREE IN KENYA
KENYA FIRE. People run for cover following a series of explosions in the Embakasi area of Nairobi on Feb. 2. At least 30 people have been transferred to different hospitals, according to the Kenya Red Cross, after explosions rocked an industrial and residential area of the Kenyan capital. AFP
US RETALIATORY AIR STRIKES HIT IRAN-LINKED SITES IN SYRIA, IRAQ
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ASHINGTON -- The United States launched air strikes against Iranian forces and allied militias in Iraq and Syria on Friday, with President Joe Biden vowing more to come in retaliation for a deadly drone attack on an American base in Jordan.
The United States blamed Sunday’s drone attack on forces backed by Iran but did not strike inside the country’s territory on Friday, with both Washington and Tehran seemingly keen to avoid all-out war. “Our response began today. It will continue at times and places of our choosing,” Biden said in a statement. “The United States does not seek conflict in the Middle East or anywhere else in the world. But
let all those who might seek to do us harm know this: If you harm an American, we will respond,” he added. The strikes targeted the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Quds Force and “affiliated militia groups,” with American forces -- including long-range bombers flown from the United States -- hitting “more than 85 targets,” the US Central Command said in a statement. “The airstrikes employed more than 125 preci-
sion munitions,” it added. Targets included command and control and intelligence centers, as well as rocket, missile and drone storage facilities belonging to “militia groups and their IRGC sponsors who facilitated attacks against US and coalition forces.” The strikes killed at least 18 pro-Iran fighters in Syria’s east, according to war monitor the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. General Yehia Rasool, a spokesman for Iraq’s prime minister, called the strikes a “violation” of his country’s sovereignty and said they would bring “disastrous consequences for the security and stability of Iraq and the region.” Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani has recently called for the departure of international troops from Iraq after a previous US strike in Baghdad. AFP
DEADLY STRIKES HIT ‘PRESSURE COOKER’ GAZA BORDER RAFAH
‘ZUCK’ FACES SENATE. Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, looks on during the US Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on ‘Big Tech and the Online Child Sexual Exploitation Crisis’ in Washington, DC, on Jan. 31. AFP
PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES— Deadly strikes were reported early Saturday in the overcrowded Gaza border town of Rafah -- dubbed a “pressure cooker of despair” by the UN -- as international mediators readied a new push to seal a tentative truce deal between Israel and Hamas. Hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians have fled south to Rafah since the outbreak of the war, with the former city of 200,000 now housing more than half of Gaza’s two million-plus population, a WHO representative said Friday. The United Nations’ humanitarian agency OCHA said it was deeply concerned about the escalation
of hostilities in nearby Khan Yunis, which have pushed more and more people south in recent days. “Most are living in makeshift structures, tents or out in the open,” OCHA spokesman Jens Laerke said during a briefing in Geneva. “Rafah is a pressure cooker of despair, and we fear for what comes next.” An AFP journalist in the city heard powerful explosions shortly after midnight on Saturday, with the Hamasrun health ministry later reporting 14 people killed in two strikes there. The ministry said more than 100 people in total were killed across the territory overnight. AFP
NAIROBI, Kenya—At least three people died and 280 were injured when a gas blast set off a huge ball of fire in a densely populated area of the Kenyan capital, officials said on Friday. The government vowed those responsible would be held accountable after a truck laden with gas canisters exploded just before midnight Thursday in Embakasi, unleashing a trail of destruction and sending people running for their lives. Shaken residents charged that it was a disaster in waiting because of the number of gas depots in the area, with a regional energy body saying the site where the blast occurred was being operated illegally. “The whole building was shaken by a huge tremor, it felt like it was going to collapse,” James Ngoge, who lives across the street from where the fire broke out, told AFP. “At first, we didn’t even know what was happening, it was like an earthquake.” Investigations are under way to determine the cause of the explosion, which was felt several kilometres (miles) away. AFP
CHILE FOREST FIRES: 10 FEARED DEAD SANTIAGO—Chilean firefighters were battling rapidly expanding wildfires Saturday that officials fear have claimed around 10 lives and are threatening hundreds of homes, prompting the president to declare a state of emergency. About a dozen fires have been raging since Friday. The blazes are concentrated in the Vina del Mar and Valparaiso tourist regions, where they have ravaged thousands of hectares of forest, cloaked coastal cities in a dense fog of gray smoke and forced people to flee their homes. “We have preliminary information that several people have died, around 10,” said Sofia Gonzales Cortes, state representative for the central region of Valparaiso. In the towns of Estrella and Navidad, southwest of the capital, the fires have burned nearly 30 homes, and forced evacuations near the surfing resort of Pichilemu. AFP
NOKOR GOES ON CRUISE MISSILE TESTING SPREE SEOUL—North Korea fired multiple cruise missiles Friday, Seoul’s military said, continuing a fresh streak of weapons testing as Kim Jong Un’s regime ramps up what it calls “war preparations”. So far this year, 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. North Korean state media KCNA said the launch tested a “superlarge warhead” cruise missile and “a new-type anti-aircraft missile”, in a report Saturday. Pyongyang has been carrying out ever more weapons tests, including multiple cruise missile launches, an “underwater nuclear weapon system” test, plus firing a solid-fueled hypersonic ballistic missile. AFP
US LAUDS CHINA FENTANYL MOVE, SEES POLITICAL RISKS WASHINGTON—The United States has seen important action by China on curbing fentanyl, a senior official said Friday after talks in Beijing, but he acknowledged the risk that friction between the two powers could “blow up” progress. Making good on a commitment during a November summit between Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping, a US delegation held an inaugural meeting this week in China on the flow of fentanyl, the powerful painkiller behind an addiction epidemic in the United States. “We recognized some initial steps by the PRC,” said Todd Robinson, the assistant secretary of state dealing with narcotics and law enforcement, refer-
ring to the People’s Republic of China. “Is it significant? Absolutely,” he told reporters on his return to Washington, while adding that the action was not yet enough. US officials have long charged that China is complicit in the trade of fentanyl, which is many times more powerful than heroin and is responsible for more than 70,000 overdose deaths a year in the United States. China banned fentanyl exports in 2019 but US officials say that it is still the primary source of precursor chemicals to the synthetic opioid, which are then put together by cartels in Mexico and smuggled into the United States. Since Xi promised Biden at the summit in California that China would act,
“it is clear they have gone to certain companies and either warned them or shut them down,” Robinson said. He also credited Beijing with sending a general warning to chemical producers and sharing information with the Vienna-based International Narcotics Control Board. He said that China had the power to act, explaining that after the 2019 ban on exporting fentanyl, “it stopped almost immediately.” - Real or symbolic? The fentanyl talks come at the start of an election year in the United States in which Biden’s expected Republican rival Donald Trump is pushing for a more confrontational approach against China. AFP
INCENSE CLOUD. A Purepecha Indigenous woman holds incense during a 3-day ceremonial procession from Cocucho to Ocumicho indigenous villages in Michoacan State, Mexico, on Jan. 31. Every year, Purepecha’s Indigenous people from different regions of Michoacan State celebrate the Fuego Nuevo Purepecha (Purepecha’s New Fire), a fire lighting ceremony to mark the start of the new year. AFP
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SUSTAINABILITY CHALLENGE
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IMBULAN Group has been driving innovation in comfortable living space even before the word became a catchphrase. “We’ve always been ahead of the curve,” company founder and CEO Renato Simbulan said. “Now, the focus is eco-sustainability. We don’t claim expertise, but we do our part. It’s about eliminating harmful materials, minimizing plastic and modernizing operations.” His company has weathered decades of triumphs and tribulations, emerging as a leader in fit-outs for hotels, offices and residences. Their secret—versatile, utilitarian designs that stand the test of time. This dedication to quality and innovation shines through in every piece created by the group, particularly the Simbulan Industries Phils. Inc., in tandem with Masterpiece Furniture and Interiors By Simbulan. Their timeless creations have graced the most discerning clients, adorned the most prestigious hotels and brought comfort and beauty to countless homes. Simbulan’s ambition doesn’t stop at design. His construction arm, R.G Simbulan and Partners, extends their services to meticulously chosen residential projects. Retooling, upskilling Recognizing the need for progress, Simbulan embarked on a bold 5-year plan: a massive mechanization program to reskill workers and upgrade machinery. “This is my final gift to the company,” said the man of vision and unwavering spirit. “I’ve already invested P70 million, and another P50 million is earmarked for complete mechanization. By 2028, I want to retire knowing I’ve prepared them for the future’s challenges.” He acknowledges the productivity gap between Filipino workers and their mechanized counterparts in China and other countries. His plan isn’t to replace his 1,600 employees, but to empower them, aiming to match China’s output in the medium term. At 67, Simbulan isn’t slowing down. He’s ready to conquer a new challenge—mass production. He recalls shunning offers from renowned furniture stores, fearing he wouldn’t meet their volume. Now, fueled by experience and resilience, he’s embracing the opportunity.
Visionary entrepreneur Rene Simbulan with wife Gigi, daughters Anna Celine and Marian Criselda, sons-in-law and grandchildren.
DUTY FREE PHILIPPINES STEPS UP MARKET PRESENCE WITH ITS ONLINE SHOPPING PLATFORM DUTY Free Philippines (DFP) launched Thursday its online shopping platform aligning its goal to hit its revenue target of $167 million by the end of 2024.
DFP operating officer Vicente Pelagio A. Angala said Duty Free Online Shopping is a strategic move to enhance customer convenience and contribute significantly to reaching the agency’s forecast. “For 2024, we again accept the challenge of increasing our revenues
by as much as 64 percent, from $102 million to $167 million,” he said. On its online shopping platform, DFP said it will accept various forms of payment to enhance customer convenience. International credit cards, including Visa and Mastercard, are among the accepted payment methods, as well as digital wallets such as PayPal, UnionPay, and WeChat Pay. In addition, the dedicated customer service team is available around the clock through various channels to address customer queries and concerns promptly. For in-store pickup, customers have the convenience of retrieving their purchased items at designated Duty Free Philippines Shops situated within the airport terminals. With the launch of Duty Free Online Shopping, the company aims to redefine convenience in dutyfree retail, providing a seamless and efficient shopping experience for travellers and shoppers alike.
Simbulan’s journey is far from a lucky streak. His rise to prominence as a top fit-out and furniture maker was a product of unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. He’s battled back from two devastating fires, in 1996 and 2021, each one a chance to rebuild, stronger and more determined. “The first fire, Fred Yao saved me. He’s more than a friend, he’s family. My rock in tough times,” he said. Simbulan rebuilt his empire, literally from the ashes, constructing a new P300-million, 2-story facility on a 15,000-square-meter property in Baliuag, Bulacan. This location serves as the company’s operational hub. Nostalgic past His parents grew up orphans during the Japanese occupation. Despite his parents’ unfortunate circumstance, their family survived rough times as both his parents plodded, working doubly hard to provide for their three children “We were raised in a poor family, but my father would always provide the best for his children. I remembered how my father saved money to buy me the best calculator, and when in grade school, how my mother would try to buy us watercolor in tube instead of the Guitar brand, which was the most practical brand,” he reminisced with longing and gratitude in his heart. His father toiled as a pump operator in Cinerama, a local movie theater, before saving enough money to start a slipper manufacturing business. His mother, as tireless as his father, ran a small sari-sari store and later on went into garments manufacturing. Teenage Simbulan would often accompany his mother to Divisoria, miles from their Baliuag home, begging bus conductors to squeeze onto crowded buses with their textile bales. “It was a difficult time. It was always a bitter argument with bus conductors to allow us to load our baggages. Many buses do not allow people with baggages to board. And it went on for years until I came to Manila to study in college,” he said. His provincial upbringing did not prepare him for the uppity vibe in Manila. Studying at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) was a breeze when it came to academics, but his“promdi”looks, wearing shiny long-sleeved top, came as weird compared to the hip vibe of shirt and jeans-donning students. One of the pioneers of electronic and communications engineering (ECE) at the university, Simbulan is not one to succumb to pressure. He took everything in stride and managed well enough. These are same values of perseverance and resilience that he and his wife Gigi instilled in their two daughters, now both married and with children of their own. Simbulan has not only raised two responsible and dedicated daughters, he always looks forward to spending quality time with his grandchildren whom he taught to be smart and accountable for their actions. His devotion to the furniture industry has inspired many companies. Looking back, his only regret was his inability to foresee that working with fellow furniture makers in his hometown would help more mom-and-pop furniture makers scale up and provide global mass producers a run for their money. Simbulan’s story is one of resilience, vision and belief in the power of hard work and innovation. He is an inspiration to Filipino snot just as an entrepreneur but also as a responsible and loving family man. His will to rise from adversities have shown that true success is built on more than just luck—it’s built on grit, determination and a genuine passion for creating something extraordinary. “The greatest strength of the Philippine is to create its own industrial revolution. We have a big population and big consumer base. Being a consumer economy for a really long time took its toll on us. This is moment to reverse that, go out to the world and do serious business,’” he said. Othel V. Campos
SUPPLY CHAIN PLATFORM REPORTS STRONG GROWTH IN 2023
RELEX work from a customer-first mindset with a commitment to delivering measurable results.
RELEX Solutions announced a 42 percent year-over-year growth of reported subscription revenue in 2023. “The bedrock of our customer
promise lies in delivering measurable, impactful results, very quickly. We stand by the premise of ‘doing what we say we’re going to do’ which not only instills
trust, but confidence,” said RELEX Solutions CEO and co-founder Mikko Kärkkäinen. This growth is attributed to new and expanded customer signings across the globe, closing 2023 with nearly 200 customer deals, of which 73 were net-new customers. RELEX also saw a 31 percent increase in customers that chose to expand their business with RELEX to capture additional business value in 2023. Telex’s acquisition of Optimity brought in more than 80 customers across highly complex manufacturing and food and beverage industries including Blendwell, Bubbies Ice Cream, Vita Coco, and Finsbury. Across retail, wholesale distribution, and manufacturing, RELEX currently has a portfolio of over 500 happy customers.
B2 | FEBRUARY 4, 2024
ON THE ROAD Euisun Chung, executive chairman of Hyundai Motor Group
KIA EMPHASIZES ELECTRIFICATION, SUSTAINABILITY IN ITS 2024 AGENDA LAUNCHING FIRST EV-DEDICATED FACTORY IN KOREA SOON
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IA is further embracing electrification, sustainability, and a greener future as it enters the year 2024.
The company is committed to fostering a co r p o rate c u l t u re t h at e n co u ra g e s innovation, sustainable growth, environmental responsibility, and carbon-neutral initiatives. Kia AutoLand Gwangmyeong, soon to be the first dedicated electric vehicle (EV) factory in Korea, symbolizes these objectives. It serves as the venue for the brand’s New Year Festivities and represents the bright future Kia envisions for itself and its expanding customer base. To achieve carbon-neutrality by 2045, Kia plans to actively reduce carbon emissions in its manufacturing processes and significantly increase the use of renewable energy. This includes the implementation of solar power generation systems in both domestic and overseas production sites. “Instead of fearing what comes next, let us rise to the challenge. Let us keep reinventing and innovating ourselves to usher in a brighter and more sustainable tomorrow,” said Euisun Chung, Executive Chair of Hyundai Motor Group, during his New Year address. Preparing for the future, Kia chose the Kia AutoLand Gwangmyeong facility for this year’s ceremony, emphasizing its focus for the year ahead. Established in 1973 as Korea’s first integrated automobile factory, it introduced the country’s full-scale automobile production era with a conveyor belt production process.
In the first half of 2024, Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) will complete the construction of Korea’s first dedicated EV factory at the site, marking a significant milestone in the history of future mobility. This year also commemorates the 80th anniversary of Kia’s founding and the 50th anniversary of the launch of Kia’s first passenger car, the Brisa, produced at Kia AutoLand Gwangmyeong. Looking ahead to 2024 and beyond, Euisun Chung expressed excitement about the series of electrification innovations that will begin at AutoLand Gwangmyeong and expand to Ulsan, the United States, and beyond. HMG plans to complete the redevelopment of the Kia AutoLand Gwangmyeong EV Plant in the second quarter of this year. The upgraded facility will produce the brand’s compact electric crossover, the EV3, for domestic and international markets. Kia aims to play a significant role in achieving the overall group strategy of becoming one of the top three
global EV manufacturers by 2030. As part of its evolving sustainability efforts, Kia Philippines introduced the Kia EV6 Battery Electric Vehicle in 2023. With its powerful 229-PS and 350-Nm Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor, rear-wheel drive configuration, and 2,900-mm wheelbase, the Kia EV6 offers a potent crossover experience for up to five passengers. Its EPA-estimated range of 528 kilometers on a single charge provides realworld practicality and performance. With its Vehicle-to-Load feature, the Kia EV6 can even power home appliances or tools using its onboard battery pack, making it a versatile premium electric mobility crossover for families and professionals. The Kia EV6 is priced at P3,788,000 and comes with a 5-year or 160,000-km vehicle warranty, as well as an 8-year or 160,000-km battery warranty, providing customers with peace of mind.
NLEX ANNOUNCES THREE MAJOR PROJECTS THIS YEAR NLEX Corporation, the tollway company responsible for the NLEX, SCTEX, and NLEX Connector expressways, plans to continue its commitment to infrastructure development and enhancement projects in 2024. These projects aim to expand road capacity and improve the travel experience for motorists. One of the major projects is the completion of the Candaba 3rd Viaduct, which is currently 40 complete. This five-kilometer viaduct, located between Pulilan, Bulacan, and Apalit, Pampanga, will be widened to three lanes with inner and outer shoulders in each direction. The enhanced viaduct will improve safety and mobility for motorists and is scheduled to be finished by November 2024. Another vital project is the NLEX C5-Link, which will begin construction in the second quarter of 2024. The first two kilometers of this project, connecting the Mindanao Avenue toll plaza to Quirino Highway in Novaliches, will address traffic congestion in the area. Eventually, this section will be integrated into the future NLEX expansion to C5/C.P. Garcia near Katipunan Avenue, creating an interconnected tollway network accessible from
various sides of Metro Manila. The third major project is the expansion of NLEX San Fernando to SCTEX Spur in Mabalacat, Pampanga. This expansion will increase the expressway road capacity from the existing 2x2 lanes to 3x3 lanes in each direction, providing faster and more seamless travel for motorists. The project also includes the installation of roadway lighting for added safety and the expansion of the Angeles Interchange to accommodate the growing volume of vehicles in the area. Construction is targeted to start in the second
quarter of 2024. In addition to these major projects, NLEX recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) to build the Sto. Tomas Interchange in Pampanga. This interchange will provide direct access to Santo Tomas and nearby towns, easing congestion leading to San Fernando. As part of their traffic decongestion program, NLEX Corporation has opened the new F. Raymundo Exit in Meycauayan Northbound and added an additional lane at the Meycauayan Northbound Exit ramp. These measures aim to alleviate traffic in the area, especially during peak hours and holidays. The tollway company will also continue its heavy maintenance program to preserve the quality and safety of its road assets. Various system enhancement programs and major upgrades in traffic management systems are also planned. The NLEX traffic control center, which houses a central traffic management system, will undergo renovation to integrate advanced technologies for traffic monitoring and communication.
MILO RIVERA, Issue Editor email: medarlo.e.rivera@gmail.com
OWNING A VOLKSWAGEN —AS SIMPLE AS IT GETS VOLKSWAGEN Philippines is making it simpler for customers to drive home their dream Volkswagen with the introduction of its latest premium offers. Starting this month, Volkswagen Grand Offers provides up to three enticing purchase options, allowing customers to choose the most suitable option for their needs and budget. The Volkswagen Grand Offers program offers customers three ways to own the latest Volkswagen models: affordable down payments, remarkable discounts, or low monthly payments. This initiative aims to make car ownership more accessible and affordable across the Volkswagen Philippines model range. For the newly launched Volkswagen Tharu, customers can take advantage of a low-down payment of only P218,000 for the SE variant. Alternatively, there is a tempting low monthly payment option of P32,484 for this exciting new crossover. The Volkswagen T-Cross 180 MPI AT SE, a stylish and compact crossover, offers savings of up to PHP 102,000. Customers can also opt for a low monthly payment of P24,075 to bring home the T-Cross SE. Buyers of the Volkswagen Lavida 230 TSI DSG SE, a fuel-efficient family sedan, can enjoy significant savings of up to P333,000. The net price for the Lavida is now P918,000, and there is an option for a low monthly payment of P17,963.
Volkswagen Lamando customers are in for a treat with savings of up to P270,000 off the suggested retail price (SRP) under the Volkswagen Grand Offers promotion. A monthly payment option of P24,327 is available for those interested in purchasing this premium sedan. For adventurous individuals seeking a dynamic hatchback with crossover versatility, the Volkswagen Cross Santana 180 MPI AT SE is now even more affordable with a limited-time SRP of P898,000. Alternatively, customers can opt for a monthly payment of P16,134. All financing offers are based on a 30 percent to 35 percent down payment with a 60-month term, making it easier for customers to manage their payments. In addition to the attractive purchase options, Volkswagen models come with a once -a-year Periodic Maintenance Service, a Three-Year or 100,000-kilometer Vehicle Warranty, and free One-Year 24/7 Emergency Roadside Assistance (ERA). These benefits provide customers with peace of mind and ensure a worry-free ownership experience. With the Volkswagen Grand Offers program, owning a brand-new Volkswagen has become as simple as 1,2,3.
GEELY PHILIPPINES INTRODUCES NEW PRESIDENT AND CEO SHARES VISION AND EXECUTION PLANS; PREVIEWS BRAND’S FIRST EV GEELY Philippines, through distributor Sojitz G Auto Philippines (SGAP), recently introduced its new President and CEO, Naoyuki Takeda, to the public during a formal ceremony last January 29 at the Geely North EDSA showroom. Members of the motoring media were present to witness the unveiling of Geely Philippines’ vision for growth and development. During his inaugural address, Takeda presented a bold and ambitious vision that transcends the conventional boundaries of the automotive industry. “Our commitment goes beyond mere words,” remarked President Takeda. “It is evident in the actions we are taking, the changes we are making, and the improvements we are implementing. We are building something significant, and I invite each of you to join us in reshaping the automotive landscape.” President Takeda’s address highlighted several key points. He emphasized Geely Philippines’ unwavering dedication to excellence, citing tangible achievements such as the significant improvement in parts supply capability. This improvement has resulted in service fill rates exceeding 90%,
demonstrating the brand’s commitment to enhancing the after-sales service experience. Additionally, President Takeda pledged to prioritize delivering a 5-star customer experience. Takeda described Geely Philippines’ growth as a shared journey and partnership, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to contributing to the dreams and aspirations of individuals seeking a better and more fulfilling life through their vehicles. The event reached its climax with the muchanticipated preview of Geely Philippines’ first electric vehicle, the Geometry C. President Takeda hailed this milestone as a testament to Geely’s dedication to innovation and sustainability, setting a new standard for the automotive industry in the Philippines. As Geely Philippines embarks on this new chapter under the leadership of President Naoyuki Takeda, the event signifies a paradigm shift in the brand’s narrative from mere commitment to concrete action and from promises to tangible achievements. The unveiling of the Geometry C serves as a herald of Geely Philippines’ continuous evolution and its contribution to a sustainable and aspirational automotive future.
New president and chief executive officer Naoyuki Takeda (right).
SPORTS
RANDY M. CALUAG, Issue Editor
OPINIO FEBRUARY 4, 2024 |
B3
NBA STORE PH UNVEILS LUNAR NEW YEAR PROMO THE National Basketball Association (NBA) on Friday announced that the league’s 13th Lunar New Year (LNY) Celebration will take place from Saturday, Feb. 3 – Saturday, Feb. 24, and will feature an LNY promotion in the Philippines across the NBA Stores at SM Megamall and SM Mall of Asia. The NBA Stores in Metro Manila will participate in the celebration through its “Pick & Pop” promotion, which runs from Monday, Feb. 5 – Sunday, Feb. 11. For a minimum in-store purchase of Php 5,000 on a single receipt, fans will have the opportunity to select a red envelope, which will offer a chance to win special prizes, including gift vouchers and NBA t-shirts.
Wushu siblings Kariza Chan (right), along with her twin brother Dustin (left) and Justin, stand proudly in front of their mural at the Baguio athletic bowl.
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BAGUIO MURAL PROJECT HAILS WUSHU ATHLETES
N a colorful display of artistic feat, veteran Baguio artist Ged Alangui has unveiled the first four athletes in the Final Push phase of the Heroes Wall of Fame mural project at the Baguio athletic bowl. The project, which commenced in October 2020, is a captivating tribute to the rich sporting heritage of Baguio, featuring 129 athletes and sportsmen. The recent additions to the mural include Southeast Asian Games medalists John Keithley Chan, Kariza Chan, and their twin siblings Dustin and Justin. The upcoming batch will immortalize the late Dr. Charles
Cheng, a grassroots boxing advocate and columnist for the Baguio Midland Courier, and Ramon Dacawi, a journalist known for his role in the Cinderella football team during Baguio’s national football event in the early ‘90s. Despite his enthusiasm, Alangui shared his desire to paint faster, hindered by his barangay duties. Elected as kagawad in October last year, he continues the legacy of his late father Gil, who held the position but unfortunately succumbed to the Covid-19 pandemic. Collaborating on the project is Gladys Anne Labsan, working towards completing a total of 56 works by the end of the month. Labsan, facing challenges with wall repairs and balancing two jobs, remains dedicated to her artistic pursuits while providing for her five young children. Labsan’s focus on the “Art Run” cluster includes former Gintong Alay runners and other
notable figures, adding depth and diversity to the mural. The Ramos family, former Gintong Alay runners Eduardo Laureano and Art Alimbuyao, and the late Federico Mandapat, Sr., and his accomplished sons are among the inspiring stories captured on the running walls. Alangui’s future paintings include wushu taolu medalists Natasha Laxamana, Thornton Lou Sayan, and Jones Llabres Inso, alongside notable figures from wushu sanda, basketball legend Robert Jaworski, Sr., and more. The mural will also feature a twodimensional sculpture of Jaworski crafted by noted Baguio sculptor Kigao Rosimo. Once completed, the mural will stand proudly along the 140-meter grandstand, encapsulating the spirit and achievements of 129 remarkable athletes and sportsmen. Pigeon Lobien
FIFA EXTENDS PARTNERSHIP WITH VISA FIFA, the world federation of football, on Friday announced the extension of its partnership with Visa, a world leader in digital payments, as an official FIFA partner. The new agreement, which runs through 2026, enables Visa and FIFA’s efforts to champion the growth of football and support players, fans, and clients through an exciting program of youth, beach soccer, and FIFAe events, and will culminate in the biggest FIFA World Cu in history in 2026. FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, said: “FIFA is thrilled to partner with Visa and to focus our strong partnership on what will be a very bright future. Visa’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the fan experience, coupled with their innovative approach to payment technology, aligns with FIFA’s vision to make football truly global and accessible to all. We look forward to delivering exceptional moments for fans across the globe.” Visa cardholders will receive exclusive and behind-the-scenes access throughout FIFA tournaments, Visa-cardholder pre-sale events, and other innovative promotions, including at FIFA stores and online at FIFAstore.com, throughout the partnership. “Our alliance with FIFA has yielded immense benefits for our brand, clients, and cardholders,” said Oliver Jenkyn, Group President, Global Markets, Visa. “We’re excited to continue our long-standing partnership and deliver seamless payment experiences as part of one of the world’s most popular sporting events.” Leveraging insights from Visa’s
Visa will continue to be the Official Payment Technology Partner for FIFA events across the world.
“ D i g i t a l Fa n s : H o w C o n n e c t e d Experiences Can Power the Future of Fandom”, Visa and FIFA will work together to identify further steps to improve the fan journey and experience at the biggest- ever FIFA World Cup, and at other FIFA tournaments. FIFA Chief Business Officer, Romy Gai, said: “Since 2007 Visa has been instrumental in elevating the payment experience at more than 40 FIFA events, including the recent FIFA World Cup in Qatar and last year’s recordsetting FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. While the fan journey has seen tremendous strides in the 16 years of partnership, FIFA and Visa have our sights set on a modernized digital, custom, and frictionless commerce experience for
FIFA World Cup 2026.” Frank Cooper, Chief Marketing Officer, Visa, added: “One of Visa’s primary goals in partnering with FIFA is to enrich the experience of both fans and athletes. The FIFA World Cup 26 presents a unique opportunity for Visa to achieve that goal. Although competitive sports are considered entertainment, it is also a thriving business. This allows Visa to operate at the intersection of culture and commerce, fulfilling the high expectations of our cardholders on match day, whether they are watching the excitement unfold in their living rooms or sitting at the heart of the action at midfield.” For more information on FIFA tournaments, including FIFA World Cup 2026, visit FIFA.com.
NBA team celebrations tipped off on Monday, Jan. 29 when the Oklahoma City Thunder visited the Detroit Pistons. Twenty-five NBA teams will celebrate the Year of the Dragon with in-arena activations, local community initiatives, and social and digital content: the Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Brooklyn Nets, Charlotte Hornets, Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Pistons, Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets, Indiana Pacers, LA Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, Memphis Grizzlies, Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, New Orleans Pelicans, New York Knicks, Thunder, Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns, Sacramento Kings, San Antonio Spurs and Utah Jazz. For all the latest NBA news and updates, fans in the Philippines can visit www.nba.com, download the NBA App, and follow the NBA on Facebook, TikTok and X. The 2023-24 season is airing live in the Philippines on One Sports, NBA TV Philippines, streaming platforms Pilipinas Live and Setanta Sports, and NBA League Pass. Fans in the Philippines can shop for official NBA merchandise at the NBA Stores at SM Megamall and SM Mall of Asia and at NBAStore.com.ph.
ENDERUN GOLFEST PAYS TRIBUTE TO VISIONARY LEADER MANDALUYONG City—Enderun Colleges concluded the highly successful Ed Rodriguez Memorial Cup at the prestigious Wack-Wack Golf & Country Club, bringing together industry leaders, proud alumni, and Enderun community. The morning kicked off with flair, hosted by Alethea Ambrocio, Miss Philippines 2023, featuring a memorable tee-off by Enderun’s Chief Operating Officer, Daniel Perez. The golf tournament unfolded, showcasing impressive skills and sportsmanship from participants across various industries. Post-tournament, the festivities continued with the second half of the day, expertly hosted by Pauline Amelinckx from Empire.ph. Attendees were treated to exciting prizes sponsored by Golf x, VIP Golf, Nuat Thai, Hanabishi, and Kitchenaide. Major contributors like Discovery Primea, Acacia Hotels, Hilton Manila, Twin Lakes, and Picasso Boutique added the allure with hotel accommodation gift certificates. Prime Edge Consultancy wrapped up the day with a captivating same-day edit, setting the stage for the
awarding ceremony and raffle in the afternoon. Daniel Perez highlighted the student-led initiative, organized by Lux Lucis, Leadership Program, and Enderun Entrepreneurs Society. He emphasized how this event not only showcased the leadership potential of students but also served as a meaningful tribute to the late Dr. Edgardo Rodriguez, former President of Enderun, on his birthday. Dr. Rodriguez’s commitment to innovation and excellence remains a guiding light for the institution. In addition to honoring Dr. Rodriguez’s memory, the event had a broader impact by generating funds crucial for Enderun’s student-athletes scholarship program. These funds will contribute to the sustainability of the program, ensuring future tournaments and supporting aspiring student-athletes. Enderun Colleges expresses heartfelt gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and attendees who contributed to making the Ed Rodriguez Memorial Cup a memorable celebration of golf, community spirit, and a tribute to an esteemed leader.”
Alumni and friends of Enderun Colleges get together for a day of fun golf.
OPINION B4 | FEBRUARY 4, 2024
LGU
PATRICIA TACULAO-DELIGERO, Issue Editor lgu.manilastandard@gmail.com
BINAY TOUTS P9.19B BUDGET FOR SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT SECTOR M
AKATI Mayor Abby Binay said that the city has allocated P9,199,756,000 for the city’s social development sector, which is nearly half of the P19.70-billion budget for 2024.
The mayor said Makatizens can look forward to enhanced benefits and programs this year, as the city anticipates substantial savings following the transfer of ten EMBO barangays to Taguig. “Despite a reduction of P700 million in the National Tax Allotment due to the transfer of the ten barangays to Taguig, I want to assure Makatizens that our commitment to social services remains unwavering. We are blessed to have a steady and thriving economy, and we recognize the importance of utilizing our resources wisely to enhance the overall well-being of residents and foster a more inclusive and equitable society,” she said. Binay emphasized the city’s commitment to transparent and accountable use of public funds, assuring residents that every peso will be maximized for the benefit of Makatizens. This year, Makati will add anti-shingles vaccine to its list of covered vaccinations, aiming to enhance the overall health and well-being of residents aged 19 and above. The vaccine cost ranges from P8,000 to P10,000, but it will be provided at no cost to Yellow Card holders. Based on the approved 2024 budget, health got the largest share among the social development sub-sectors, with P4,136,000,000 (45 percent), followed by education with P3,253,038,000 (35 percent), and social welfare, P1,810,718,000 (20 percent). For this year, Binay said the city earmarked P2.36 billion for the Ospital ng Makati (OsMak), P1.71 billion for the Makati Health Department (MHD), and P54.38 million for the Veterinary Services Department. Health programs covered by this year’s budget include
Makati’s 2024 budget is higher by P473.9 million compared to last year’s
the MHD’s Primary Health Care Management (P1.04 billion) and OsMak’s Patient’s Care Program (P1.29 billion). Under the education sub-sector, the city has allocated P1.89 billion for the Department of Education-Makati, P1.02 billion for the University of Makati, P274.06 million for the Education Department, and P55.98 million for the Museum and Cultural Affairs Office. Meanwhile, the city has also allotted P1.70 billion for the Makati Social Welfare Department (MSWD) and P108.14 million for the Youth and Sports Development
Department (YSDD). For this year, the city has dedicated P4,261,527,000 for Administrative Services, P195,383,000 for Economic Development, P824,844,000 for Environmental Management, P410,771,000 for Finance Management, P1,045,579,000 for Infrastructure Development; P1,679,343,000 for Protective Services; and P2,092,574,000 for the city’s statutory and contractual obligations. The 2024 budget is higher by P473.9 million compared to the 2023 budget of P19.23 billion.
PASIG CELEBRATES 23RD BAMBINO GRAND FESTIVAL A SIGNIFICANT celebration of the 23rd Bambino Grand Festival, with the theme “Bambino De Pasig, Bukal ng Patuloy na Umaagos na Pag-asa ng mga Pasigueño na Namamanata sa Kanya” took place in the City of Pasig on Jan. 21, 2024. The highlight of the said celebration is the Bambino Grand Parade, which features floats carrying various images of the Holy Infant Jesus. Aside from the floats, devotees also carry their respective images of Sto. Niño. Their faces show the joy of being able to celebrate this festival again. In addition, the Bambino de Pasig, which is the symbol of the Bambino Festival, was once again seen. It is believed that this image symbolizes the importance of the Holy Child Jesus in the lives of Pasigueños.
OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEERS AWARDEE. THE Students’
The Bambino Grand Festival pays tribute to Sto. Niño or the Child Jesus
Devotees joining the 23rd Bambino Grand Festival with their respective images of the Holy Infant Jesus
Present at the Bambino Grand Parade are Pasig City Government officials, barangays, and organizations from the church. At the end of the parade, the floats and devotees passed in front of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral where the blessing of the Holy Water took place. In continuation of the Feast of Señor Sto. Niño, the public is invited to view the Bambino Exhibit featuring various images of Sto. Niño. It will start from Jan. 29 to Feb. 11, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m. at 2/F SM City East Ortigas.
MARIKINA RECEIVES SEAL OF GOOD LOCAL GOVERNANCE
Marikina Mayor Marcy Teodoro (second from left) receiving the SGLG
THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) formally awarded Marikina City with the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG). City Mayor Marcy Teodoro accepted the recognition from DILG Regional Director Maria Lourdes Agustin. The SGLG symbolizes the Marikina government’s honesty, efficency, and efforts to provide the highest level of management in various sectors, namely financial administration and sustainability, disaster preparedness, social protection and sensitivity, health compliance and responsiveness, sustainable education, businessfriendliness and competitiveness, safety, peace, and order, environmental management, tourism, heritage development, culture and the arts, and youth development. Also present during the momentous event were Vice Mayor Marion Andres and Sangguniang Panglungsod members, DILG-Marikina led by City Director Mary Jane Nacario, Marikina government agency heads, and city government offices heads.
Actions Vital to the Environment and Mother Earth (SAVE ME) Movement, Inc. recently awarded Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte with the 2024 Outstanding Volunteers Award (OVA) for her initiatives in implementing programs geared toward preserving human rights, environmental conservation, and gender equality in Quezon City. Belmonte is among 11 individuals recognized this year. The SAVE ME Movement, Inc. is an environmental movement in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) for Operation Listo aimed towards strengthening local government units’ disaster preparedness.
PASAY LAUNCHES SKATEPARK AT LINEAR PARK Pasay Linear Skatepark. Of course, with collaboration, communication, and coordination with JCI Manila, this Skatepark is poised to be one of the highlights in our thrust towards building spaces that will serve as backdrops to new core memories of our public,” the mayor said. The Skatepark aims to provide a proper and safe area for young people who love to skateboard as well as a clean and beautiful venue for Pasayeños. O t h e r attendees during the launch include representatives of JCI Manila and Leanne Rubiano, president of JCI Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano (seventh from left) during the groundbreaking ceremony Manileña.
A SKATING area at Linear Park in Pasay officially launched last Jan. 25 in Barangay 143 and was led by Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano in collaboration with JCI Manila. “It is in this light that we share with you the excitement, motivation, and inspiration as we mount the groundbreaking ceremony of the
NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer email: lifeandshow.manilastandard.gmail.com
YoungLIFE
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FILIPINO DESIGNER MERGES EUROPEAN AND FILIPINO CULTURES IN ITALIAN-MADE BAG
B
UDDING multidisciplinary designer PJ Almera showcased the bold and contemporary juxtaposition of European Romanesque architecture and Filipino craftsmanship in a leather maxi bag.
The ARCO maxi bag has arched cut-outs in rattan and genuine European cowhide
Multidisciplinary designer PJ Almera merges Romanesque architecture with Filipino craftsmanship in ARCO maxi bag
Almera’s ARCO features detachable straps, metal handles, and a leather grip
FRESH ENERGY
Called ARCO, it was specially made for Up To You Anthology’s D e s i g n Yo u r - B a g competition, wherein it emerged as the top winner. This novel piece marks the young creative’s name as the first Filipino to collaborate with the innovative Italian brand Up To You (UTY) Anthology. He joins renowned global visionaries Zaha Hadid, David Chipperfield, Nendo, Naoto Fukasawa, Vincent Van Duysen, and Giulio Cappellini. ARCO channels Almera’s manifesto to create an unconventional approach through intensive research, brainstorming, and an emotional release of creative explorations. Conceptualized with freedom and a limitless lifestyle in mind, it is an ideal company for equally versatile style aficionados on the go, as it comes with detachable straps, metal handles, and a leather grip. It likewise features an inner lining, as well as slit and zipped pockets. Color o p t i o n s range from red and black, to the posh white chocolate. It is complete with the signature UTY
dust bag designed by graphic icon Lissoni Graphx. An homage to both far-distanced regions, the fashion statement features arched cut-outs in rattan, a material abundant in the tropical rainforests of the Philippines. It was made with genuine European cowhide handcrafted by the best artisans in Italy. Equipped with a bachelor’s degree in Architecture from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) in Manila and a master’s degree in Contemporary Interior Design from the Instituto MarangoniMilano Design School in Milan, the licensed architect has embraced the various principles in arts, new media, and design fields. He has turned to the discipline and practice of constructing buildings to encapsulate his journey. “Architecture portrays history and heritage in a very sophisticated way while showcasing the uniqueness of each culture through intricate and distinct details,” he explained. “Arches, in particular, have since been a staple language in my design. I treat it as an important element that gives meaning and wonder instead of just being a faddish shape,” he added. Almera is the founder of Studio Almera, where he serves as the creative director and designer for diverse interior, creative, and branding projects. He is also the founder, trend director, and creative director of ACIIID, an interdisciplinary research and development platform for contemporary design trends. He is the co-founder and co-design director of his new venture Wandr, where he delves into multi-disciplinary design and art focusing on ephemerals and objects Currently, he pursues his advocacy to amplify aesthetic visions for architecture and space as an educator at Benilde School of Environment and Design (SED).
London fashion brand COS launches capsule collection for spring and the Lunar New Year
CAPSULE COLLECTION BLENDS TRADITION WITH CONTEMPORARY ELEGANCE FOR LUNAR NEW YEAR
By Nickie Wang IN A celebration of the arrival of spring and the Lunar New Year, fashion brand COS has launched a capsule collection that exudes the vibrancy and renewal associated with the season. The collection seamlessly blends traditional elements with contemporary design, offering a range of timeless staples and modern classics that promise to refresh wardrobes throughout the year. Embracing the rich symbolism of the Lunar New Year, the collection introduces a fusion of neutral-toned casual separates adorned The collection balances both modernity and versatility
with accents of vibrant crimson. Soft knits in auspicious red and fluid silhouettes evoke a sense of relaxed sophistication, capturing the essence of renewal and prosperity. Crafted from rich cotton and merino wool, the collection showcases exquisite tailoring, striking a harmonious balance between modern style and versatility. Each piece is designed to seamlessly transition from day to night, ensuring a wardrobe that effortlessly adapts to diverse occasions. Elevating the ensembles are modern, artfully designed accessories. From an architectural ripple crossbody in a shade reminiscent of the spring skies to timeless, luxe Pieces are made from rich cotton and merino wool
leather bags made responsibly, these additions complement the collection’s ethos of combining form and function. Reflecting COS’ design philosophy, the capsule is built to last, making it a timeless addition to one’s wardrobe, season after season. The collection is now available at the COS Store Manila in SM Aura Premier and online at cos.com, inviting fashion enthusiasts to explore and embrace the season’s fresh energy and timeless elegance. Inspired by contemporary culture, COS is a London-based fashion brand renowned for its iconic wardrobe pieces, elevated essentials, and innovative designs built to withstand the test of time. The brand is committed to quality and sustainability, adopting a bespoke approach to design. COS creates unique collections that seamlessly blend function with timeless style, focusing on experimental design details and material innovation. The brand is dedicated to the considered use of fibers, whether recycled, renewed, or sustainably sourced, contributing to a responsible and for ward-think ing
The collection fuses neutral tones with vibrant crimson for the Lunar New Year
SHOWBIZ
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NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer email: lifeandshow.manilastandard @gmail.com
BEAUTY GONZALEZ’S GLORIA BACK AS FIERCER WOMAN IN UNIFORM By Nickie Wang
S
ENATOR Ramon “Bong” Revilla’s iconic character of Tolome is making a small-screen comeback joined by actress Beauty Gonzalez’s fiercer portrayal of his wife, Gloria.
Expect an even more action-packed second season as the Kapuso comedy-action series unveils exciting scenes for viewers to watch out for new hotshot villains to catch and new ladies that will have Gloria crying her iconic “Tolome!” Speaking to Manila Standard Entertainment, Beauty spoke about how her character changed in the second season. “First, I was nervous because I was going to do a lot of action, but at the same time, I was excited to explore different sides of my character and also my capabilities as an actor. I’m thankful for Senator Bong and everyone, including some cast members and our director. They guided me in my action scenes, keeping a close eye to make it look good because I’m a bit clumsy,” she said in jest. “Character-wise, Gloria, now as part of a police unit, is different. She’s fiercer but still jealous,” Beauty said. “Her character is more violent,” Senator Bong, who plays Tolome in the show, jokingly added. “Her actions now perfectly fit her character. If you liked Gloria in season 1, you’ll like her even
more in season 2. Our characters are reversed here, she’s now the police, so there’s a lot to look forward to with Gloria,” the actor and public servant continued. The much-anticipated series follows the adventures of Major Bartolome “Tolome” Reynaldo, a police major known for his brave dedication to catching criminals. He is famous for fearing absolutely no one—except his feisty yet devoted wife, Gloria. In this latest season of Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis, fans can expect an entertaining mix of new and returning cast members. “We have a biggest now, it’s more fun,” Beauty mentioned. Joining the cast are both returning favorites and new faces, including Carmi Martin, Jestoni Alarcon, Ejay Falcon, Liezel Lopez, Niño Muhlach, Dennis Padilla, Maey Bautista, Raphael Landicho, Nikki Co, Angel Leighton, and Jeffrey Tam. Special guest stars such as Max Collins, Kelvin Miranda, Herlene Budol, Dion Ignacio, Lianne Valentin, Celeste Cortessi, Mika Salamanca, and Sanya Lopez. The second season also promises the adrenaline rush of Pinoy-favorite action stars like ER Ejercito, Roi Vinzon, Jay Manalo, Ramon Christopher Gutierrez, Antonio Aquitania, Brent Valdez, MJ Ordillano, and Michael De Mesa. Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis season 2 premieres tonight at 7:15 on GMA Network.
Senator Ramon ‘Bong Revilla (left) and Beauty Gonzalez are back in the second season of ‘Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis’
Actress Beauty Gonzalez is set to do more action scenes in the show’s second season
Belle Mariano’s ‘And Solemn’ follows the success of her first album, ‘Somber’
BELLE
LIGHTENS UP IN NEW EP ‘AND SOLEMN’ YOUNG singer and actress Belle Mariano finds healing, purpose, and determination in her latest EP, And Solemn, unveiled at the SM City North Edsa Skydome on Jan. 27. The five-track EP features “Nobody Else,” a love song about finding the right person, composed by KZ Tandingan. Other tracks include “Walang Pake” by Trisha Denise, “Shot Me Right Through” by Angelica Tagadtad, “I Choose Me” by Anjila Lim, and “Autumn,” a collaboration with Ben&Ben for the hit series Can’t Buy Me Love, composed by Paolo Benjamin G. Guico and Miguel Benjamin G. Guico. All tracks are produced by Belle and StarPop label head Roque “Rox” Santos. And Solemn completes Belle’s two-part album, following Somber released in June 2023. During the launch, Belle received the Lullaby Artist Award from Spotify. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to grow in music: “Creating music is a way for me to express myself. Thank you to everyone who loves and supports Filipino music.” Among the attendees were StarPop label head Rox Santos, ABS-CBN Music creative director Jonathan Manalo, and ABS-CBN Music head Roxy Liquigan, who announced Belle’s upcoming birthday concert.
TV SHOWS FOR BINGE-WATCHING
‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ guarantees an exciting adventure for the viewers
IF YOU want something more than movies, Netflix has a plethora of TV shows available on its platform. And if you already have a backlog that you haven’t finished yet, prepare to add more to it because these are some of the most exciting shows coming in 2024. If you’re a fan of gripping crime dramas, kick off your Netflix marathon with Fool Me Once (which premiered on Jan. 1), where Maya Stern discovers unsettling truths about her husband’s murder through a nanny-cam. Michelle Yeoh stars in The Brothers Sun, a thrilling story of a Taiwanese triad leader’s son protecting his family from a mysterious assassin in Los Angeles. The series premiered Jan. 4. Next up is Griselda (Jan. 25), inspired by the life of the infamous Griselda Blanco, navigating the dangerous world of cartels in 1970s to 1980s Miami. Brace yourselves for the live-action adaptation of the acclaimed
animated series Avatar: The Last Airbender on Feb. 22, promising an epic journey through the four nations and the battle against the Fire Nation. March brings The Signal (March 7), a sci-fi miniseries following a scientist’s mysterious disappearance on the International Space Station, and 3 Body Problem (March 21), a mind-bending tale from the creators of Game of Thrones, exploring a fateful decision in 1960s China with repercussions across space and time. April brings Dead Boy Detectives, set in the universe of The Sandman, featuring teenage ghosts solving mysteries. For a hassle-free streaming experience, Smart offers access to Netflix on their Signature Plans+. Activate your Netflix bundle through Smart’s Netflix Activation Portal or follow the instructions in your Signature welcome email.
‘The Brothers’ Sun’ stars (from left) Justin Chien, Michelle Yeoh, and Sam Song Li
CRAVINGS CRAV CRA INGS
JOYCE PANGCO PAÑARES, Issue Editor email: joyce.panares@gmail.com
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EAT AND BE LUCKY IN THE YEAR OF THE WOOD DRAGON T
HE Year of the Wood Dragon is represented by the only mythical creature in the Chinese Zodiac.
Considered as the luckiest of the 12 animals, it favors the bold and the passionate, with the wood element fueling the dragon's fire. Welcome the Lunar New Year with these auspicious offerings from Marco Polo Ortigas Manila and Diamond Hotel Philippines.
Yu sheng prosperity salad
Marco Polo Ortigas Manila prepares a magnificent welcome to the lucky year of the Wood Dragon, with delightful offerings for the whole family to share and cherish. Renowned Chinese Executive Chef Waai Hoi Yeung expertly crafted well-loved dishes at the award-winning Cantonese restaurant Lung Hin for the Lunar New Year. From Feb. 5 to 11, his culinary brilliance shines in eight curated a la carte masterpieces, and a gustatory collection of nine flavorful courses in one lavish set menu. Attract luck with the star of the festive fare -- the Yusheng salad with buttery abalone, fresh salmon and jelly Chinese fish tossed in decadent Executive plum sauce. Chef Waai Fork-tender braised Hoi Yeung pork knuckle and sea moss perfectly comple complements the savory fried rice of taro and Chi Chinese sausage and the succulent essence of wok-fried prawn and sea conch married in XO sauce. Whether a table for five or 10, celebrate new beginnings in style with
Takeaway platters to celebrate the Year of the Wood Dragon
Nian gao (tikoy)
loved ones and enjoy the live annual Feng Shui forecast of Master Chau Kam Shing over a grand luncheon on Saturday, Feb. 10. Breathe tradition in your New Year celebration with Lung Hin’s signature Nian Gao, available in Double Gold Bars, Double Flavored Muscovado Red Dates, Ginger and Osmanthus Water Chestnut, Muscovado Red Dates, Ginger Round, and Osmanthus Water Chestnut Round. Finely packaged in decorative gift boxes, these delightfully thoughtful presents are perfect for friends and family alike. (Lung Hin boasts of well-appointed private dining rooms for groups of up to 25. For more information and reservations, please contact (+63 2) 7720 7777 or
Usher in the year of the powerful Dragon in grand style and invite prosperity and luck and when you celebrate at Diamond Hotel Philippines. This Feb. 10, 2024, welcome the lunar new year as you enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel. Rates start at at P8,800 net for Deluxe Room accommodations inclusive of Corniche buffet breakfast for two adults, and two children ages 12 years old and below. At Corniche, savor the bountiful spread of superb Chinese dishes at the buffet from Feb. 8 to 11, 2024, prepared by Chinese master chef Yang Yong. Priced at only P3,780 net per person for lunch or dinner, the buffet features traditional New Year celebratory fares. With a minimum spend of P5,000, seize the opportunity to pluck a prize from the Prosperity Tree and stand a chance to win enticing hotel certificates. To enhance the festive celebration and beckon good fortune, an exciting Dragon and Lion Dance performance is set on Feb. 10, 2024 at 11 a.m. at the hotel lobby. Are you spending Chinese New Year at home? The hotel’s savory and sweet takeaway platters, and set menu will be perfect for the festivities. (Place your orders now at onlineshopping.diamondhotel.com. Available until Feb. 11, 2024. For reservations call 8528-3000 or visit www. diamondhotel.com)
Chinese New Year Cake
Chocolate pralines
FOOD FORWARD: TOP 5 FOOD TRENDS THIS NEW YEAR AND BEYOND By Angelica Villanueva SAN Miguel Foods Culinary Center (SMFCC) unveiled a mouthwatering glimpse into the culinary landscape of 2024 and beyond during its "Food Forward" event. The immersive experience wasn't just a feast for the senses, but a window into the trends shaping our future plates. San Miguel Foods Culinary Services Manager Llena Tan-Arcenas discussed how technology has influenced and transformed culinary experiences in the past couple of years. “In recent years, technology, including social media, has played a significant role in connecting people from all over the world. With this, culinary interests have expanded, and many of us have become food enthusiasts in search of diverse flavors. Through this event, we want to further encourage connections through food,” she said. “While we focused on five specific up-
coming trends, what is common and timeless to all, is an emphasis on quality and the ability of food and beverages to give delight--which are all hallmarks of San Miguel products,” Arcenas added.
Sustainable Dining
As people become more aware of the environmental impact of food choices, a wave of innovative and delicious sustainable dining trends is rising. Consumers are taking the reins, pushing for choices that respect the planet and minimize waste while nourishing their bodies. Under sustainable dining is the climatarian diet, which emphasizes low environmental impact, promotes plant-forward choices, and highlights the use of local and seasonal ingredients. For the event, SMFCC creatively translated the sustainable dining trend in two distinct ways. One highlight was Hipong Kabute with Tajin Pickled Mango and Yuzu
Soy Glaze—a plant-based seafood crafted from king mushrooms coated. This dish was complemented by yuzu soy glaze and Tajin pickled green mangoes served over crispy nori-rice wrappers.
Healthspan Wellness
In response to the United Nations' projected demographic shift, consumers are increasingly opting for foods that are beneficial for their health, with vibrant flavors and colors offering functional advantages such as energy, focus, and relaxation. This trend is centered around a plant-based approach, incorporating ingredients such as mushrooms, botanicals, florals, exotic fruits, tropical flavors, protein alternatives, and fermented foods. Capturing this trend, SMFCC presented Meat-free Adobo Floral Salad with Lychee Beer Vinaigrette, a blend of greens and edible flowers paired with Veega Meat-Free Adobo Flakes, as well as Meat-Free Tapa Iloko Beer-ria, combining the flavors of a local favorite, Iloko empanada, with Mexicanstyle birria.
Borderless Global Flavors
San Miguel Foods Culinary Center chefs
Motivated by a craving for adventure and communal experiences, consumers are engaging in a worldwide culinary journey. Showcasing diverse cultures and regional gastronomy, current popular global trends include third-culture cuisine, Balkan cuisine, the global influence of local ingredients, the spice heist, and enhanced convenience. SMFCC presented five distinctive dishes to showcase global flavors, beginning with Pinoy Mezze, a Filipino twist on Balkaninspired appetizers; Smoked Keso, Kang-
Halo-halo bingsu style
Meat-free tapa Iloko beer-ria
kong & Luncheon Meat Banitsa—a flaky and filling Bulgarian-inspired cheese pie of filo pastry stuffed; Caldereta Goulash—a savory Hungarian-style stew, Chicken BolaBola Kofta—a richly-spiced meatball dish that drew inspiration from Balkan, Middle Eastern, and South Asian culinary influences; and Okoy Chicharon Bulaklak with Rose Water Turmeric Pinakurat Puree and Rose Water Gin Caviar.
po, a modern take on the Filipino staple. The traditional pandesal was also elevated through Beer Pandesal with Smoke-infused Cheese and Calamansi Honey Marmalade.
Retro Revival and Newstalgia
Comfort food gets a makeover. This yearning for yesterdays has ignited a retropolitan food trend, bringing back beloved brands and flavors from childhood, reminding us of simpler, happier times. But it's not just about reliving the past; "newstalgia" infuses these classics with modern twists, creating fresh memories alongside the comforting echoes of before. In line with this trend, SMFCC introduced dishes like Pancit Pares with BBQ ala Liem-
Little Luxe
This trend focuses on pampering and self-care, embracing vibrant flavors and colors to evoke feelings of luxury and happiness. Its goal is to enhance everyday experiences by infusing basic ingredients with global flavors. SMFCC embraced this trend by crafting four distinct sweet treats. First was Kamote Bicho-Bicho with Cinnamon Hot Honey, showcasing a fluffy Filipino version of a sugar donut. Next was the Halo-Halo Bingsu Style, a milk-based and Earl Grey tea-infused shaved ice dessert topped with grated Magnolia Cheezee. Blending traditional Pinoy halo-halo with Korean bingsu, this dessert featured colored glutinous rice balls over a chocolatelined edible container, with fluffy shaved ice.
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DESIREE CARLOS, Editor email: daycarlos28@yahoo.com
CAFFEINE POISONING IN DOGS Caffeine acts as a stimulant for the central nervous system, immediately seek veterinary assistance if your pet has consumed caffeine. (Photo from iStock | amenic181)
By Niko Gabriel Salgado
What to Do if Your Dog Drinks Coffee
C
AFFEINE is a crystalline compound present in tea and coffee plants. It serves as an added ingredient in various foods and medications to function as a stimulant for the central nervous system. While for humans, consuming caffeine on a daily dose is normal, it is crucial to note that for dogs, it is considered toxic. Caffeine is commonly found in coffee, tea, coffee grounds, tea bags, diet pills, and soda. Caffeine toxicity in dogs occurs when dogs ingest caffeine, whether it is from coffee, other caffeinated substances, or chocolate. Given that caffeine acts as a stimulant for the central nervous system, immediately seek veterinary assistance if your pet has consumed caffeine.
Why Do Dogs Drink Coffee?
“Dogs are curious beings. It is in their nature to smell, or lick various things. Occasionally, they may consume grass, rocks, toilet paper, and even exhibit the rather unappealing behavior of eating feces,” said Dr. Renee Burgin in “Caffeine and Dogs” published in the Pets United website.
If you suspect that your dog has ingested coffee or coffee-related products such as beans or grounds, contact your veterinarian immediately. Be prepared with information about your dog’s weight and the quantity of coffee they may have consumed.
Symptoms of Caffeine Poisoning
You can typically see signs of caffeine toxicity within 30 to 60 minutes of consumption. Symptoms can last anywhere between 12 hours to several days. You’ll need to monitor Causes of Caffeine Poisoning in Dogs your dog for any of these symptoms: • Agitation Caffeine poisoning in dogs results from in• Restlessness gesting a food item or medication containing • Vomiting caffeine. While mild effects may occur with the • Panting consumption of small amounts, the situation • Elevated heart rate can escalate if a substantial portion is ingested • Elevated blood pressure – for instance, if your pet consumes both the • Abnormal heart rhythms coffee filter and its contents. • Hyperthermia (elevated body temperature) In extreme situations, your dog may experiAccording to Burgin, the effects can be: ence collapse, tremors, and seizures. Excessive • Neurologic (for example seizures) caffeine intake can be fatal for your pet, but the • Metabolic lethal dose varies based on the size of your dog. • Gastrointestinal (vomiting) • Pulmonary How Veterinarians Treat • Cardiovascular (heart abnormalities)
How to Prevent Your Dog from Drinking Coffee
• While a small amount of brewed coffee might not pose an issue for larger dogs, it is advisable to never provide coffee in any form as a treat. • While it can be enjoyable to treat your canine companion, providing them with human treats like chocolate can cause harm or even be fatal to them. • Ensure that all caffeinated items such as coffee, coffee grounds, coffee beans, chocolate-covered espresso beans, and tea bags are stored off the ground and away from your dogs. After completing your morning coffee preparation, consistently place the pot and cup in a location that is not easily accessible, preventing the risk of it being knocked over and licked from the ground. • When disposing of your coffee grounds, seal the trash bag securely and ensure it is entirely inaccessible to your dog. • Encourage your children, family members, roommates, and guests to be mindful that coffee should be kept out of reach of your dog.
Recovery of Caffeine Poisoning in Dogs
The extent of recovery depends on the quantity of caffeine ingested. Untreated cases Your vet might advise you to observe of caffeine poisoning, resulting in central your dog for signs of caffeine poisoning and nervous system complications like seizures or instruct you to contact them if the situation collapse, can be fatal for dogs. However, with deteriorates. There's a possibility they may prompt treatment, the prognosis is generally positive. suggest bringing your dog in for a thorough examination. Following successful treatment, your “If it's within a few hours of the caffeine inveterinarian will provide detailed post-care gestion, the veterinarian might consider induc- instructions, which may include guidelines ing vomiting to prevent further absorption of on administering medications, potential side the substance,” said Burgin. effects to monitor, and other at-home care “It's crucial never to attempt inducing vomit- instructions. A follow-up appointment will be recommended for the veterinarian to assess ing without professional guidance. In some cases, activated charcoal may be administered your dog's ongoing recovery. to help eliminate toxins from the body without absorption into the bloodstream,” Burgin About the Author: Niko Gabriel Salgado is a added. graduate of consular and diplomatic affairs from Additionally, your vet might provide fluids to De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, and worked aid in flushing out caffeine or prescribe mediat the House of Representatives. He is now an encations to manage symptoms such as elevated trepreneur and a volunteer of the animal welfare heart rates, tremors, and seizures. group Save Animals of Love and Light- Save ALL
Caffeine Poisoning
While a small amount of brewed coffee might not pose an issue for larger dogs, it is advisable to never provide coffee in any form as a treat. (Photo from iStock | Ksenia Raykova)
SAVE ALL ASKS BUCOR: CREATE TRANSFORMATIVE PROGRAMS RATHER THAN BAN STRAYS FROM PRISONS Last of 2 parts Skow's initiative has not only provided inmates with a newfound sense of purpose but has also yielded staggering results—marked reductions in recidivism rates and successful reintegration into society for program graduates.
Rehabilitation for Dogs and Inmates: The TAILS Program in Florida
Moving across the country to Florida, in the article, "Prison animal programs are benefitting both inmates and hard-to-adopt dogs in Florida, experts say" by Julia Jacobo, the TAILS program has redefined the rehabilitation paradigm for both at-risk dogs and inmates. Designed to pair at-risk dogs with incarcerated individuals, TAILS aims to foster an environment where inmates learn valuable skills in grooming, animal training, and preparing dogs for service roles. This program's rigorous screening process ensures that both inmates and dogs involved are prepared for the transformative journey ahead. The outcomes have been exceptional, leading to positive behavioral changes among inmates and providing them with educational and vocational opportunities that support their reintegration into society post-release. "We take the dogs who need us the most," Deane said, adding that they reside at the correctional facility full-time for the length of the program, sleeping in cages next to their trainers in dorms that hold many convicts. According to Jen Deane, executive director of TAILS and Pit Sisters, a Jacksonville-based group that rescues dogs from local shelters. Deane described the practice as being a "very strict
process" for vetting both convicts and pets. Inmates who have been accused with any violent or animal-related offense are not eligible, nor may they have had any behavioral difficulties while jailed, thus participation in the program is effectively a prize for good behavior. Even after the pets graduate, offenders are allowed to continue in the program and receive a new puppy "pretty quickly," according to Deane.
The Impact of Prison Pet Partnership: Transforming Lives Beyond Bars
In the article, “Prison Pet Partnership: Dogs and Inmates Helping Each Other” by Dr. Ruth MacPete, DVM, a shining example of the profound synergy between inmate rehabilitation and animal welfare lies in the inspiring story of the Prison Pet Partnership in Gig Harbor, Washington. Founded in 1981 by Sister Pauline, a Dominican nun, and Dr. Leo Bustad, the program embodies a belief in the rehabilitative power of the human-animal bond. Working within the Washington Corrections Center for Women (WCCW), the partnership's primary objective is to equip inmates with essential skills—ranging from grooming to advanced animal training, preparing dogs for service roles. Through the decades, the Prison Pet Partnership has not only rescued over 700 dogs from shelters but has also served as a beacon of hope for inmates seeking a path toward redemption and reintegration into society. In this unique program, inmates receive invaluable companionship from their temporary furry friends, fostering responsibility, unconditional love, and a profound sense of accomplishment as their trained dogs graduate to become service animals or beloved pets in homes. The program operates a state-of-the-art kennel and
An inmate take his dog (assigned to him) on a walk and is training him basic commands. (Photo from Getty royalty-free images.) grooming facility within the corrections center, providing inmates with hands-on grooming and boarding experience, ultimately leading to their accreditation as licensed pet groomers. Moreover, the rigorous training regimen for service dogs becomes a transformative journey, forging unbreakable bonds between inmates and the dogs they train, even if some dogs don't meet service standards, they find loving homes due to their exceptional training. The holistic success of the Prison Pet Partnership extends far beyond the confines of the correctional facility.
Notably, it positively impacts rescued animals, deserving recipients of service animals, and the communities awaiting the return of rehabilitated inmates who, armed with newfound skills and a renewed sense of purpose, contribute positively to their societies. About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a freelance artist, writer, and tutor. She has been a solo parent for 17 years now because she is wife to a desaparecido. She and her daughter are animal lovers and are active in advocating not only human rights but the rights of animals as well.