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SAN MIGUEL GROUP FINALLY AWARDED P171-B CONTRACT TO REHAB NAIA Putin critic Navalny dies in Arctic prison

By Darwin G. Amojelar

MOSCOW—Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny died Friday in the Arctic prison colony where he was serving a 19-year-term, Russia's federal penitentiary service said.

Western governments immediately attacked the Kremlin over the death of the most outspoken critic of President Vladimir Putin.

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AFTER three decades, the Department of Transportation on Friday finally awarded the P171-billion contract to rehabilitate, operate and maintain the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to a group led by San Miguel Corp.

“We are pleased to announce that we will award this project to the winning bidder—the SMC-SAP Group,” Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said in a press briefing.

VOL. XXXVIII • NO. 6 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024 •

SC nixes WPS oil pact with China, Vietnam

From NAIA to San Miguel Airport? Maybe not—DOTr NEWS / A2 Bautista said the DOTr issued the notice of award to the SMC-SAP Company Consortium.

The NAIA privatization is three decades and six administrations in the making, starting from the PIATCOFraport attempt during the Ramos administration.

The awarding of the contract marks the beginning of a 25-yeartransformation for one of the country's busiest airports, aiming to generate a staggering P900 billion in revenues throughout the concession period.

Denies final appeal by gov’t agencies for exploration deal

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By Rey E. Requejo

T

HE Supreme Court has affirmed with finality its January 10, 2023 decision on the unconstitutionality of a tripartite partnership with Chinese and Vietnamese state-owned firms to explore a portion of the West Philippine Sea for oil and gas.

In a resolution made public on Feb. 15, the High Court denied the motion for reconsideration filed by the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Energy, Philippine National Oil Company, and PNOC Exploration Corporation.

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PCG, BFAR ships to rotate in aiding Masinloc fishers

By Vince Lopez THE Philippines would rotate the deployment of vessels at the Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal) starting this month in a bid to providemore protection to Filipino fishermen, the National Security Council (NSC) said.

"The national government has directed the Philippine Coast Guard and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources to deploy their vessels for rotational deployment in BdM starting this month,” National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said.

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Track loose firearms to keep peace in Mindanao, Marcos tells agencies

By Charles Dantes PRESIDENT Marcos wants government agencies to track the movement of illegal firearms in Mindanao with the goal of making the region peaceful, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz said Friday.

The President also told the country's

troops in the region to lead as "peacemakers" as he outlined a new approach to internal conflict during his visit to the Philippine Army's headquarters in Agusan del Sur on Friday.

The Chief Executive emphasized the dual role soldiers must play—fighting those who threaten peace and democracy while simultaneously acting as peacemakers.

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SOIL AND SEEDS. President Marcos walks by posters noting the construction progress of the state-of-the-art Agusan del Sur Soils Laboratory in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, on Feb. 16, walking beside Australian Ambassador to the Philippines HK Yu (right). Mr. Marcos later gives out seeds to local farmers with Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and other officials (inset). PPA POOL

Fuel prices rising again next week More aid coming, by as much as P1.50/liter—DOE President vows

OBLATION RUN. Members of the Alpha Phi Omega fraternity protest naked in front of the University of Philippines Palma Hall in Quezon City in preparation for their annual Oblation Run – an act that mimics UP’s famed statue -- on Friday. Members of the fraternity run around the campus naked to dramatize certain social issues. Danny Pata

PUMP prices of petroleum products are expected to go up again in the coming week, for the sixth time in the last seven weeks, the Department of Energy said Friday.

“There will be price increases in gasoline, diesel, and kerosene for next week, Tuesday, February 20,” DOE Oil Industry Management Bureau Assistant Director Rodela Romero said, citing oil industry estimates based on trading in the past four days.

“Estimated adjustment ranges from P1.10 to P1.50 [per liter],” Romero

#ANONGBALITA? ‘May bibe na ba lahat?’

DepEd OK with hair clip

Sesame Street's Grover now works as a journalist

THE Department of Education has no problem with students or teachers wearing duck hair clips that have become a hit in Baguio last year.

SESAME Street's blue Muppet, Grover, is now working as a reporter, and fellow journalists were worried that his new career would take a hit given the dire situation of the media.

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to Caraga areas

said, without indicating which products would see the increase.

The oil price hikes next week, she said, could be due to the following developments: the Middle East conflict rising at the Lebanese border; US crude stockpiles surging; the disruption of shipping in the Red Sea and Suez Canal; and the OPEC (Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries) forecast of strong demand for 2024.

Local oil companies usually announce price adjustments every Monday, to be imNext page plemented the following day.

By Charles Dantes and Othel Campos PRESIDENT Marcos assured officials and residents in the Caraga region on Friday of continued government support for families affected by flooding from rains due to the recent low-pressure area and shear line, prioritizing access to medicine and clean water.

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Military banned from using TikTok SOLDIERS are now banned from using the social media app TikTok due to cybersecurity risks, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said.

AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Padilla said the ban covers work and personal phones of military personnel.

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NEWS

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Zubiri: I’ll sign Quiboloy subpoena S

"I have been told by my staff that the issuance of the subpoena for Pastor Apollo Quiboloy has been prepared and is now ready for my signature. I am just in the Visayas at the moment for several engagements, but I will sign all these documents upon my return," Zubiri said.

Speaking at the Kapihan sa Senado on Thursday night, Senator Risa Hontiveros said she already sent a formal letter to Zubiri requesting the issuance of the subpoena against Quiboloy.

Asked why the subpoena remains pending, Hontiveros replied: "It's better

that you ask SP (Senate President’s office) so they can explain.”

"In the meantime, the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality cannot wait for the subpoena any longer. We will continue with the hearing. We already have a second batch of witnesses," Hontiveros added.

Zubiri said that any delay was not intended, noting that "work haspiled up" amid the recent "attacks against the Senate and our democratic institutions due to the fake People's Initiative."

"The noise has only just settled

SC...

id, it must be executed and implemented under any of the modes under Section 2, Article XII of the Constitution," the decision read.

The modes for oil exploration provided under the Constitutional provision are as follows: (1) directly by the State; (2) through co-production, joint venture or production-sharing agreements withFilipino citizens or qualified corporations; (3) through smalls-scale utilization of natural resources by Filipino citizens; and (4) through agreements entered into by the President with foreign-owned corporations involving technical or financial assistance for large-scale exploration, development, and utilization of minerals, petroleum, and other mineral oils.

"For obvious reasons, JMSU does not fall into the first three modes since it involves foreign-owned corporations,” the SC said.

As for the fourth mode, the High Court noted that the President may enter into agreements with foreign-owned corporations involving either technical or financial assistance for large scale exploration, development, and utilization of minerals, petroleum, and other mineral oils accord-

ing to the general terms and conditions provided by law.

“Based on the foregoing, for an agreement/contract under the fourth mode to be valid, it must foremost be entered into by the President himself/herself. The text of the provision is clear. Here, the President is neither a party nor a signatory to the JMSU. The contracting party is PNOC represented by its President and Chief Executive Officer," the High Court said.

Citing the separate and concurring opinion of Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, the High Court said neither the PNOC nor the DOE is authorized to enter into agreements pertaining to large-scale exploration of natural resources in the exclusive economic zone.

Only the President is given such authority, it added.

“For this reason alone, JMSU should be held unconstitutional."

Despite last year's earlier ruling of the Supreme Court, President Marcos said the Philippines will “find a way to move the process forward” for oil exploration projects in the West Philippine Sea. “It's imperative for the Philippines to find a way to move the process forward

so as to be able to assure ourselves of a fuel supply during that transition period,” he said in an interview with NHK in December.

Mr. Marcos admitted negotiations with China for joint oil and gas exploration in the WPS, particularly in Recto Bank (Reed Bank), have remained stalled.

"We are still in a deadlock right now...

We have been in negotiationsfor over three years now, and have made very little progress,” the President added.

Mr. Marcos said as far as the Philippines is concerned, Recto Bank “is not in a conflict area.”

“This is very clearly within our EEZ (exclusive economic zone). It iscertainly within our baselines, within the maritime territory of the Philippines. So, whatever it is that we will do in the future, it has to be consistent with that understanding,” he said.

In response, the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines affirmed that Beijing remains committed to pursuing the undertaking.

"Our position on joint development of oil and gas with the Philippines remains," the embassy said.

ensure that the government benefits from the most advantageous revenue-sharing agreement.

“This aims to secure a favorable outcome for our shareholders while prioritizing fairness and long-germ sustainability,” San Miguel said.

The other two bidders that submitted financial bids were ManilaInternational Airport Consortium, which is composed of Aboitiz InfraCapital, Ayala’s AC Infrastructure Holdings Corp., Alliance Global-Infracorp, Filinvest and JG Summit Holdings (25.91 percent), and GMR Airports International B.V., Cavitex Holdings, Inc. and House of Investments, Inc. of GMR Airports Consortium (33.3 percent).

Asian Airport Consortium was disqualified to join the bidding process by the Pre-qualifications, Bids and Awards Committee (PBAC) because it failed to comply with the technical proposals for NAIA. The winning bidder will have until March 6 to submit the post-award requirements.

The DOTr expects to sign the concession agreement with the winning bidder on March 15, with the turnover of the facility likely in September this year.

It will serve as co-grantors for the project with MIAA, which would have a 15-year concession period and an option for a 10-year extension.

Track...

international terrorist groups, the next step would be her arraignment in Zamboanga.

Cruz said learning from previous experiences, the Philippine National Police is now keeping a closer watch on the registration of high-powered firearms following an incident a few years back when privately purchased AK-47 rifles ended up with rebel groups.

Some of the money which Mabanza allegedly facilitated to terror groups were used to buy firearms locally, officials said.

Unverified reports say there are more than 50,000 loose firearms in Mindanao alone—with one area boasting of guns in more than 80 percent of households—while the most recent Philippine National Police reports said it had confiscated 3,300 unregistered guns from across the country.

"We have improved on the system in keeping records on where these guns go," Cruz said.

Mabanza was arrested in Brgy. Pasil, Indanan, Sulu on Thursday in a law enforcement operation by elements of the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, and Anti-Money Laundering Council, and supported by the PAOCC. She has standing arrest warrants for five counts of violation ofRepublic Act (RA) No. 10168 (The Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012) and RA No. 11479 (The Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020), all issued on Dec. 20, 2023 in Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur with no bail recommended.

With Vince Lopez

ENATE President Juan Miguel Zubiri said Friday he will sign the subpoena against Pastor Apollo Quiboloy in connection with the chamber’s ongoing probe on the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader’s alleged human trafficking and sex-related crimes.

From A1

The 2005 Tripartite Agreement for Joint Marine Seismic Undertaking (JMSU), first approved during the Arroyo administration, was among theChina National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), Vietnam Oil and Gas Corporation (PETROVIETNAM), and Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC).

It was to cover 142,886 square kilometers in the WPS. According to thepetitioners, around 80 percent of the area covered by the agreement lay within the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile Exclusive Economic Zone.

The petition against the JMSU was filed in 2008 by then-Bayan Muna PartyList Reps. Satur Ocampo and Teodoro Casino, Anakpawis Rep. Crispin Beltran, Gabriela Women's Party Reps. Liza Maza and Luzviminda Ilagan, and Reps. Lorenzo Tañada III and Teofisto Guingona III. The en banc resolution was written by Associate Justice Samuel Gaerlan, who also penned the 2023 decision.

“We reiterate that for JMSU to be val-

San...

From A1

The SMC-SAP Group, which was formed by San Miguel Holdings Corp., RMM Asian Logistics Inc., RLW Aviation Development Inc. and IncheonInternational Airport Corp., had offered the highest bid of 82.16percent revenue share to the government at the opening of financial proposals for NAIA. Under the terms of reference, the percentage revenue share to the government is the main bid parameter for the auction.

The winning bidder will also pay P30 billion upfront cost and annual annuity payment of P2 billion to the government.

Transportation Undersecretary and chairman of the Pre-qualification Bids and Awards Committee Timothy John Batan said the San Miguel Groupis mobilizing at least P88 billion in capital investments within its first six years and at least P122.3 billion in capital investments for its entire 25-year concession period.

In comparison, Batan said total capital outlay for NAIA from thebudget of Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) from 2010 to2023 was only P27.09 billion.

In a statement, San Miguel said its proposal is designed not only to elevate NAIA to world-class standard but also to

PCG,...

From A1

The PCG vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua earlier completed its successful nine-day patrol at the Bajo de Masinloc from Feb. 1 to 9, while the BFAR vessel BRP Datu Tamblot started its patrols on Feb. 14.

Año also denied the claims of the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) that it expelled PCG and BFAR vessels in the area as he reaffirmed the country's sovereign rights and jurisdiction over the shoal.

“There is no truth to the statement of the Chinese Coast Guard that it expelled a BFAR vessel and PCG vessel that allegedly intruded into their waters,” he said.

The PCG on Sunday accused Chinese

vessels of "dangerous" maneuvers during a nine-day patrol around Scarborough Shoal.

It said CCG vessels "performed dangerous and blocking maneuvers at sea against the Teresa Magbanua four times, with the CCG vessels crossing the bow of the PCG vessel twice."

Bajo de Masinloc is 240 kilometers (150 miles) west of thePhilippines' main island of Luzon and nearly 900 kilometers from the nearest major Chinese land mass of Hainan.

It has been a flashpoint between the countries since China seized it from the Philippines in 2012.

Since then, Beijing has deployed patrol boats that Manila said harass Philippine vessels and prevent Filipino fishermen from reaching the lagoon where fish are more plentiful.

‘May...

From A1

"It's just a fad. It’s a hair accessory," DepEd deputy spokesman Francis Bringas said in a television interview.

Bringas said he even bought his own duck hair clip in Binondo recently.

"It probably won’t hurt the class if you have an extra accessory. I don’t think it will be bothersome for many," he added.

The fashion trend became a hit first in Baguio City before its popularity spread across other parts of the country.

From A1

“Our approach to our internal conflicts here in the Philippines is different, and we're asking our soldiers to be real war fighters. We still need that courage, bravery, and sacrifice that you have shown,” the President told members of the 401st Infantry Division.

“There is an added dimension to your job. Your mission isn't justabout war, but you also have to be peacemakers and remember that in some way, the people we are facing are Filipinos, too,” Mr. Marcos added in a mix of English and Tagalog.

The President urged the military to not only combat lawless elements, but also support government programs offering livelihood, land, and shelter to rebels seeking to reintegrate into society.

Cruz, meanwhile, said this when asked about the reaction of Mr. Marcos and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin over the arrest of Myrna Mabanza —an alleged financier of Al-Qaeda and a supporter of the Islamic State—in Indanan, Sulu.

State prosecutors also said Friday they may opt to ask for a change of venue of the trial of suspected terrorist Myrna Mabanza to Manila due to “security concerns.”

In a press briefing, Senior Assistant State Prosecutor Rassendell Gingoyon of the Department of Justice AntiTerrorist Unit noted that following the arrest of the Mabanza, who is accused of facilitating the transfer of funds to

down during these last few days. In the middle of our efforts to protect the institution, a lot of our administrative work has piled up in my office, including paperwork that needs my signature," he said.

In December, Hontiveros filed Senate Resolution 884 that seeks to investigate the accusations against KOJC in aid of legislation to "allow us to determine whether our updated human trafficking laws are able to cover large-scale and systemic acts of trafficking done under the cover of a religious organization."

With Macon Ramos-Araneta

Fuel...

From A1

On Feb. 13, fuel firms slashed the per-liter prices of gasoline, diesel, and kerosene

by P0.60, P0.10, and P0.40, respectively.

The latest price movements brought the year-to-date adjustments to stand at a net increase of P4.45 per liter for gasoline, P4.30 per liter for diesel, and P0.45 per liter for kerosene.

In Metro Manila, the prevailing retail prices of gasoline range from P55.90 to P78.35 per liter, diesel prices range between P53.77 and P67.40 per liter, while kerosene prices range from P72.49 to P83.84 per liter, according to the latest data from the DOE’s price monitoring as of Feb. 13 to 15.

Alena Mae Flores

Sesame...

From A1

"As a news reporter, I always do my research before I break a story. I am confident to report that you are so special and amazing!" Grover posted on X. The self-proclaimed "cute, furry little monster" has held a wide variety of jobs since 1970, such as a waiter, mailman, professor, and hot dog vendor, among others.

A number of journalists predicted his stint as a journalist might be short-lived given the massive layoffs across the globe last year. "[Grover] has been laid off without sever-

ance despite being part ofhis paper's bargaining unit," wrote Washington Post's Angel Mendoza on X. “Unfortunately, Grover was fired for not hitting his three story a day quota,” wrote Slate's Scott Nover.

Cam Wilson of the Australian news outlet Crikey commented on X: “I feel so grim about the state of journalism that it drives me to crush the dreams of a Muppet character (and the poor social media staffer who runs it).”

Nearly 3,000 journalism jobs were slashed in last year, according to a report by the executive outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas.

San Miguel Airport instead of NAIA? Maybe not—DoTr TRANSPORTATION Secretary Jaime Bautista said the San Miguel Group, the winning bidder of the P171 billion contract to modernize NAIA, will not change the name of the county’s main international gateway.

“I’ll ask our legal people if that can be done, but I don’t think they [San Miguel] will change the name of the airport,” Bautista said.

He said there are no talks to change the name of the airport.

On August 17, 1987, the Manila International Airport (MIA) was renamed the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

Senator Imee Marcos and former Senator Manny Pacquiao earlier coauthored a bill to revert the airport’s name to MIA, but the measure has not been passed. Darwin Amojelar

Putin...

From A1

Navalny lost consciousness after a walk and could not be revived by medics, the prison service said.

"Navalny felt bad after a walk, almost immediately losing consciousness. Medical staff arrived immediately and an ambulance team was called," it said.

"Resuscitation measures were carried out which did not yield positiveresults. Paramedics confirmed the death of the convict. The causes of death are being established."

The 47-year-old was Russia's most prominent opposition leader and won a huge following with his criticism of corruption in Vladimir Putin's Russia.

Russia's Investigative Committee said it had opened an investigation into the death.

Navalny's press secretary Kira Yarmysh said his team had not been informed of his death.

"Alexei's lawyer is now flying to Kharp," where his prison colony is, she said in a post on social media.

Citing his spokesman, Russian news agencies reported that Putin had been informed of Navalny's death.

Western governments and Russian opposition figures on Friday said the Kremlin was responsible for his death.

Latvia's president said he had been "brutally murdered by the Kremlin".

"The Russian government bears a heavy responsibility," Norway's Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide wrote on X, formerly Twitter. AFP

More...

From A1

During a situation briefing in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, the President emphasized immediate response as he tasked local government units and national agencies to distribute aid to evacuation centers across the region.

Mr. Marcos also acknowledged the need for long-term solutions to address the region's water scarcity, particularly in areas still submerged by floods.

This developed as 92 bodies, including body parts, have been recovered from the landslide in Maco, Davao de Oro, according to the municipal government.

In an update as of Thursday night, the Maco government said 36 people were still missing. At least 32 injured people have been rescued, it added.

The landslide happened on Feb. 6 across four barangays, buryinghouses, a barangay hall, and the terminal of a bus company serving a nearby mine.

President Marcos also ordered to fast-track the assessment and repair of the earthquake-stricken Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration's (PAGASA) building in Agusan del Sur. Mr. Marcos instructed Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan to prioritize the structural assessment of the facility, citing its importance to weather forecasting in the region.

Military...

From A1

"In AFP, the use of TikTok has been banned already. So we are not allowed to use TikTok. For one, because it's an application made by China but is not used by China. So that in itself, we say go figure," she said.

"We have a directive that we are not allowed to use TikTok. So we follow it to

the letter," Padilla added.

Padilla said TikTok asks users for access to phone features like camera, microphone, and messages even though its services have nothing to do with these functions.

In September last year, the National Security Council said it is studying the possibility of banning TikTok among the government’s uniformed personnel to avoid possible "data leak."

NEWS

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

PH cybercrime cases dropped by 40%—PNP THE Philippine National Police (PNP) has reported that the incidence of online criminality declined by 40 percent last month, attributed to the creation of its Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG).

Meanwhile, police arrested 12 people suspected of involvement in illegal online gaming operations an exclusive Parañaque City subdivision ending a month-long surveillance, according to the state-run Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR).

In a statement, ACG chief Maj. Gen. Sidney Hernia said 624 cases were logged last month, representing a 40-percent drop compared to 1,045 cases in January last year.

Hernia cited the ongoing establishment of PNP ACG offices in the regions, provinces and districts, complemented with efforts to set up cybercrime desks within police stations, as highly effectively in stamping out cybercrimes.

To further strengthen the anti-cybercrime drive, Hernia said the PNP would continue holding comprehensive training, seminars and lectures for personnel assigned to cybercrime desks to “sharpen their skills and deepen their expertise, ultimately contributing to the creation of a safer online environment for everyone.” Vince Lopez

PhilHealth told: Improve claims payment system

CAVE IN THE CITY. Metro

Manila-based spelunkers need not go far and wide to exercise their passion to explore what lies beneath the ground. They can do their thing right here at the La Mesa Watershed in Quezon City, site of the Apugan Cave discovered only in 2016. Department of Environment and Natural Resources worker Felipe Sore Jr. and forester Erisa Joy Arcillas lead the exploration of the cave on Friday.

Santi San Juan

Solons crafting PNP reform bill P

HILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. on Thursday said he was in close coordination with several lawmakers over a proposed law reforming the entire police force.

Meanwhile, the PNP hierarchy underwent a reshuffle following the retirement of PNP deputy chief for administration Lt. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia.

Acorda made the disclosure during a command conference led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. who reminded the police hierarchy to ensure that their proposed amendments to the PNP Reform

and Reorganization Bill would be embodied in the final version.

Acorda told the President that he had been given the opportunity to review the measure. ‘’They are now giving me the opportunity to review the Senate version before the (bicameral conference). And they are asking me to write a letter to

include all the provisions that we wanted rectified from this Senate version of the (reorganization) bill,” Acorda said.

The Senate had unanimously approved a proposed bill seeking to institutionalize organizational reforms to the police organization. It is one of the priority legislations of the Marcos administration.

The House of Representatives passed in August last year the measure restructuring the PNP to bolster its efficiency in law enforcement.

Meanwhile, the Western Visayas Police Regional Office (PRO-6) got a new

Bill eyes solution to Metro Cebu’s ‘chaotic traffic’

By Maricel V. Cruz A PARTY-LIST lawmaker on Friday urged the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) to continuously improve its system in settling debts to prevent the accumulation of unpaid claims.

“The PhilHealth has to study how to improve its system in terms of attending to unpaid claims,” Rep. Ray Reyes of AnaKalusugan party-list group said.

“Now that they have settled their bills with the hospitals, they should make sure that this kind of lapses do not happen again so that the healthcare services due our people do not suffer,” he added.

The lawmaker made the statement after PhilHealth revealed that it already paid P50 billion worth of previously unsettled claims to hospitals and doctors in the last five months of 2023.

Reyes, vice chair of the House Committee on Health, also thanked the House leadership led by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez for advancing the cause of PhilHealth members.

By Maricel V. Cruz

UNIQUE BAKESHOP CUM CAFÉ. A health buff and a baking enthusiast pooled their resources together and came up with coffee shop called Baking Therapy using only natural, high quality ingredients for baking breads. In photo are managing director Romy Sia and general managerTahnee Cruz, along with some of their staff. Manny Palmero

LTO traffic enforcers apprehend 3,510 erring motorists in January

By Rio N. Araja

THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) in Metro Manila on Friday said 3,510 motorists were apprehended last month for violation of Republic Act (RA) 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.

a new chief as an offshoot of a reshuffle of high ranking officers.

Acorda Jr. named Aviation Security Group chief Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky as the new head of PRO-6 vice Brig. Gen. Sidney Villaflor who was designated as the new chief of directorate for human resource and doctrine development (DHRDD).

Former DHRDD head Maj. Gen. Ronald Lee was transferred to the directorate for operations, replacing Maj. Gen. Leo Francisco.

Francisco was reassigned as the new chief of the directorate for investigation and detective management. Vince Lopez

The LTO’s Law Enforcement Unit said the apprehensions included 1,860 motorists for violation of the no-travel no-registration policy; 1,097 motorists for not using seat belts as provided by RA 8750; 535 motorists for not wearing helmet as mandated by RA 10054; three for violations of the Anti-Distract-

ed Driving Act under RA 10913; 14 for not complying with the children’s safety on motorcycle rule under RA 10666, and one motorist for driving under the influence of prohibited drugs under RA 10586.

Apart from the LTO’s apprehensions, the Department of Public Works and

Highways also flagged down 25 motorists, while the Philippine National Police took action against 193 individuals during the same period.

LTO-National Capital Region director Roque Verzosa III stressed that these operations would continue throughout the year.

A CONGRESSMAN from Cebu on Friday sought a sustainable solution to what he called the “never –ending traffic” in Metro Cebu.

In House Resolution 1592, Cebu Rep. Vincent Franco Frasco sought a cure to the chaotic traffic that has hounded Cebu City and its environs “for a long time.”

HR 1592 directs the House Committees on Transportation and on Good Government and Public Accountability to probe the traffic crisis in Metropolitan Cebu and recommend measures to resolve it.

In the resolution, Frasco stressed the significance of the transportation sector in accelerating economic development, especially in highly urbanized regions.

Metropolitan Cebu is the second fastest growing metropolitan in the country and has played an increasingly significant role in the industrial, commercial, and financial development of the Visayas and Mindanao regions.

However, along with its growing population is the continuous worsening of its traffic situation, Frasco noted.

Villafuerte wants wider legal assistance to OFWs A BICOLANO lawmaker has called on the Senate to consider passing its version of a House-approved measure seeking to broaden the government’s legal assistance available to Filipinos living or working abroad.

“Migrant Filipinos deserve all the legal assistance they can get from our government whenever and wherever they require such help, and Congress can help do that by writing new legislation to amend

our laws that presently allows the DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) and the DMW (Department of Migrant Workers) to provide only limited aid of this type to them at any time they need to protect their rights or run into trouble with the law overseas,” said Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte, National Unity Party (NUP) president.

For this purpose, Villafuerte appealed to the senators to pass a coun-

terpart measure of the House- approved Bill 9305.

A lead author of HB 9305, Villafuerte said the measure amends Section 26 of Republic Act (RA) 8042 or the “Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Law of 1995” to expand the scope of the DFA’s Legal Assistance Fund (LAF) available to overseas Filipinos, in lieu of limiting such legal aid only to “consular assistance.” Maricel V. Cruz

Researchers up in arms against coconut beetle

By Butch Gunio MEGA JOB FAIR. Jobseekers wait for their turn at a Mega Job Fair being held inside SM

City Grand Central in Caloocan City, in keeping with the department store chain’s corporate social responsibility commitments. Norman Cruz

A JOINT project by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) seeks to formulate sustainable pest man-

agement strategies against the coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) to protect farms with local and hybrid coconut varieties.

Agricultural researchers said the CRB, locally known as ‘Uang,’ is a widespread insect pest that burrows into the crown

of coconut trees, consuming the sap and damaging the leaves.

Their destructive behaviour reduces coconut yields, directly affecting the livelihood of countless coconut farmers and their families.

NEWS

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

DepEd sets training program for MATATAG

FROM KALINGA AND BACK.

Apo Whang-Od, the revered 105-yearold Kalinga tattoo master (right), straps in for a helicopter flight facilitated by the Philippine Air Force 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing to transport her from Buscalan, Kalinga to Manila – to receive the Presidential Medal of Merit from President Marcos on Feb. 14 for her contributions to the country’s traditional arts -- and eventually back to her village. PAF Photo

Senior citizens agency official suspended

By Macon Ramos-Araneta THE Office of the President has imposed a 90-day preventive suspension on the commissioner of the National Commission on Senior Citizens pending investigation of his administrative offenses.

In a four-page Notice of Charge, dated Feb. 2 and signed

by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, the suspension of Commissioner Reymar Mansilungan “takes effect upon receipt” of the notice.

He was given 10 days to submit his answer under oath, together with the affidavits of the witnesses and documentary evidence.

The commissioner has yet to comment on the suspension as of press time.

Mansilungan’s suspension was based on the complaint of Senior Citizen Party-list Rep. Rodolfo Ordanes and Miguelito M. Garcia.

Among the offenses are serious dishonesty, gross neglect of duty, grave misconduct, gross insubordination, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.

After its preliminary investigation, the Office of the President found prima facie evidence exists against Mansilungan, who was also accused of misrepresentation of his educational attainment in his application as NCSC commissioner.

THE Department of Education (DepEd) will continue to train instructional leaders to ensure the proper implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum.

In the coming weeks, the training to be led by the DepEd Central Office will be rolled out in regions, Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte said in a speech Friday during the National Summit of MATATAG Curriculum Pilot implementers at Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

The phased implementation of the curriculum is set for School Year 2024-2025.

Meanwhile, the department said it is not opposed to a bill seeking to raise the minimum monthly salary for teachers to P50,000.

Speaking to TeleRadyo Serbisyo, DepEd deputy spokesperson Francis Bringas said the department had already engaged with the World Bank to study the percentage of salary increase for teachers considering several factors.

The World Bank is asking for more data to make their study more comprehensive, Bringas said, adding that while DepEd does not want to impose a deadline on the international agency, he is hoping the study will be done prior to the deliberation of Congress on the bill.

PAGASA: El Nino already at its peak T

By Rio Araja and Othel Campos

HE El Niño weather phenomenon may already be at its peak, the state weather bureau said Friday, as it cautioned the public to expect warmer days.

Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture said it will prioritize farming technologies requiring less water, allowing rice farmers to continue planting rice in the face of El Niño.

Analiza Solis, chief of the Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section of the

Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, said that in Metro Manila, maximum daytime temperatures for March could hit a high of 36.5 degrees Celsius.

The heat isn’t confined in Metro Manila either, as PAGASA said the mercu-

ry would rise higher in Northern Luzon where maximum daytime temperatures could reach over 40 degrees Celsius.

These figures are just actual temperatures and do not include calculations for heat index, Solis said.

“This is dangerous because our normal body temperature is 37 degrees Celsius.

This means temperature outside our body is much higher, similar to a fever. Make sure those at risk are always monitored for their blood pressure. Those with conditions like diabetes, renal conditions, epilepsy, they are very sensitive to the

Zozobrado takes post as retirement authority GM-CEO

PROTEST FOR WAGES. Ahead of the 38th EDSA People Power Anniversary on Feb. 25, members of Kilusang Mayo Uno hold a protest action at the People Power Shrine on EDSA in Quezon City on Friday, carrying banners saying ‘Sahod, Hindi Cha-cha’ (Wages, not Charter change) as they asserted that salaries must be raised significantly without amending the Constitution. Manny Palmero

DPWH completes P29.4-m bridge in Caloocan City’s Barangay 176 THE Department of Public Works and Highways has completed the construction of P29.4-million bridge replacing an old and improvised span in Caloocan City.

DPWH National Capital Region Director Loreta M. Malaluan said the new permanent bridge in Barangay 176 was implemented by the DPWH Metro Ma-

amount of water and heat,” she said.

During the Task Force El Niño meeting on February last Monday, the DA identified Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) and Quick Turn Around (QTA) as the best techniques to continue rice production.

“AWD is a water-saving technology that rice farmers can apply to reduce their water use in irrigated fields,” said Agriculture Assistant Secretary U-Nicols Manalo during the task force meeting chaired by Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr.

nila 3rd District Engineering Office to provide a safer access overpass between Bigaa Street and Malanting Street in Caloocan City.

She said the upgraded two-lane bridge with sidewalk, drainage, and safety screen is accessible not just for pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles, but also for light vehicles like tri-

cycles and jeepneys.

The old bridge was constructed several years ago and posed a danger to both pedestrians and light vehicles, according to Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan.

“I was informed that the residents in the area used to cross an improvised bridge made from scrap metals. The

makeshift bridge was also built below flood-level, making it hardly passable during the rainy season. With the completion of this new bridge, these issues have been addressed and more road users now have a safer alternative route,” Malaluan said.

The bridge was completed in six months, she added. Vito Barcelo

TOURISM stalwart Roberto “Bob” Zozobrado officially assumed the role of general manager and chief operating officer of the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), an attached agency of the Department Tourism, in an oath-taking ceremony held Thursday at the DOT Central Office.

“I take pride in being of service to our country. My career has spanned all sectors of the tourism industry— international airlines, travel agencies, tour operations, international hotel chains, destination marketing, tourism academe, and tourism journalism,” he said.

“So, I have always wanted to cap my career with government service.

This is a dream come true for me.

Working for the government is a completely new ballgame for me, but anything new excites me,” the new PRA chief added.

Zozobrado, a columnist for the Manila Standard, has held various roles in the aviation and hospitality sectors. He was a former public relations specialist, director of sales for a hotel chain, and a marketing consultant.

House panel approves increase Matibag promotes sampaguita industry in San Pedro in benefits for Filipino midwives

By Maricel V. Cruz A COMMITTEE of the House of Representatives approved the increase in the pay and other benefits of midwives under the proposed amendments to the Philippine Midwifery Act being tackled by the chamber.

One of the bill’s principal authors, Kabayan Party-list Rep. Ron Salo, in a statement welcomed the House committee on appropriations’ approval of the measure, calling it “a very fitting gift to our midwives, who are among the frontliners in ensuring healthy Filipino babies and pregnant mothers.”

In the committee hearing, Salo stressed the crucial role of midwives in the delivery of healthcare and acknowledged the necessity to upgrade the practice of midwifery.

“The approval of the Appropria-

tions committee is a significant step towards strengthening the practice of midwifery in the country. It is the midwives who are at the forefront of carrying out vital health services to pregnant mothers and their babies, especially in the rural and far-flung areas, and yet they are only considered as subprofessional and only receive a low entry-level salary despite the arduous nature of their work,” said Salo.

“It’s high time to upgrade the standards and education in midwifery to broaden their job opportunities and equip them with the necessary skills and standards that meet the evolving needs of our nation,” he added.

Under the House committee-approved version of the bill, midwives working in the government will receive a Salary Grade 11 entry level, a substantial increase from the current Salary Grade 9.

SAN PEDRO CITY lone district Rep. Ann Matibag has boosted the sampaguita planting industry in Laguna province in February to enrich the environment of her hometown and uplift the lives of her people.

With the support of Senator Loren Legarda in protecting the country’s vast nature and environment, the 40-yearold lawmaker has continued and doubled her sampaguita planting programs all over San Pedro early this year reviving the city as the Philippines’ sampaguita capital.

“It’s February, and it’s Valentine’s month, so I encourage everyone to give our loved ones with fresh bouquet of sampaguita instead of roses,” Matibag said.

“We are optimistic that the Sampaguita industry will continue to bloom nationwide with our project.”

Matibag together with the people, teachers, school personnel, barangay officials, TUPAD workers and other constituents are planting sampaguita

SAMPAGUITA PROJECT. Rep. Ann Matibag of San Pedro City, Laguna (seated, third from right) leads the planting of sampaguita plants with officials of the School District Office to promote the industry based on the national flower.

in vacant lots, schools, and other venShe has a partnership with the School ues in the 27 barangays to sustain one District Office that already started last of the city’s main livelihood programs year to plant sampaguita in school garthroughout the years. dens. With Roy Tomandao

B1

OPINION

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024

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

Citizen Barok

Louis ‘Barok’ Biraogo

EDITORIAL

Apo Aqua conks out in Davao City IN THE the heart of Davao City, a tale of two disasters unfolds, leaving residents in anguish and frustration.

As torrential rains inundate lowlying areas, a paradox emerges: while some drown in floodwaters, others thirst for a single drop of drinking water.

This cruel irony lays bare the failure of promises made by Apo Aqua, plunging the city into chaos and despair.

Amidst the deluge, the Davao City Water District falters, crippled by the cessation of bulk water supply.

—“—

Let us hold Apo Aqua and its partners to account, demanding not just words, but concrete action

Apo Aqua, the heralded savior, stands accused of false claims and empty boasts.

High turbidity levels in the Tamugan River, triggered by relentless downpours, expose the hollowness of Apo Aqua’s grandiloquent proclamations of technological prowess.

With each passing day, the agony deepens as households in elevated areas face a cruel reality: intermittent water supply becomes a luxury, while exorbitant rates soar ever higher.

Former Philippine Sports Commission Commissioner Charles Raymond Maxey voices the collective anguish, decrying the deterioration of services despite escalating costs.

The facade of progress crumbles,

revealing the harsh truth of broken dreams and shattered hopes.

In the corridors of power, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issues directives with urgency, demanding swift action from concerned government agencies.

The specter of disorder looms large as water scarcity threatens to unleash chaos upon the land.

Yet, amidst the chaos, a glimmer of hope emerges as Marcos lauds the inauguration of the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project.

This beacon of promise, born from the partnership between DCWD and Apo Aqua, holds the key to salvation.

But even as Marcos celebrates this milestone, the shadow of skepticism looms large.

The history of broken promises and temporary shutdowns casts a pall over the festivities.

The people demand accountability, not just empty platitudes.

Sanctions must be swiftly imposed, and the grave sins of negligence and egregious lapses must be met with severe punishment.

The sacred trust between government and governed hangs in the balance, teetering on the brink of betrayal.

As the city grapples with uncertainty, the residents of Davao City must stand united in the face of adversity.

Vigilance becomes our shield, and solidarity our sword. Let us demand transparency and accountability from those entrusted with our welfare.

Let us hold Apo Aqua and its partners to account, demanding not just words, but concrete action.

In the darkness of despair, a glimmer of hope emerges: the resilience of the Filipino spirit. Let us harness this strength, forging a path forward in the midst of adversity. With unity and determination, we shall overcome.

For in the end, it is not the deluge of despair that defines us, but the courage to rise above it.

What Prabowo’s presidency in Indonesia will mean for the world JAKARTA – On course to win Indonesia’s presidential election by a wide margin, Prabowo Subianto faces the task of balancing the resource-rich archipelago’s relations with the United States and China, among other challenges.

Here is what his presidency will mean for Indonesia’s allies around the world: How will Prabowo manage the US-China rivalry?

Prabowo will have to balance relations with two global powers as the United States and China compete for regional influence.

He has committed himself to the long-standing non-aligned foreign policy that has allowed Indonesia to reap large investment from Beijing while maintaining ties with Washington.

But experts say the windfalls have left Jakarta increasingly dependent on Beijing.

“Prabowo must show he can practice free and fair trade,” said Teuku Rezasyah, associate professor at Padjadjaran University.

Prabowo is expected to try to keep both happy while building Indonesia’s military power.

“He sees China as a strategic partner but he is Western-educated. He will lean more to the West,” said Yoes Kenawas, research fellow at Atma Jaya Catholic University.

He was once on a US visa blacklist over alleged rights abuses under dictator Suharto in the late 1990s, but former president Donald Trump invited him to Washington as defence minister.

With Trump running for high office again later this year, the pair could warm ties further.

“If Trump wins, Prabowo would probably be attracted to finding some kind of connection to him,” said Adrian Vickers, professor at the University of Sydney.

Can Jakarta help out in its own backyard?

As chair of ASEAN last year, Indonesia tried and failed to negotiate a breakthrough with Myanmar’s junta leaders, barred from the bloc’s high-

level meetings since a coup in 2021.

Prabowo will inherit that failure amid divides within the group over how to deal with the generals, and the contested South China Sea where Beijing is becoming increasingly assertive.

“For ASEAN, I believe it’s going to be business as usual,” said Rezasyah.

But some experts fear his focus on building Indonesia’s military may be viewed negatively in the region.

—“—

Prabowo Subianto faces the task of balancing the resource-rich archipelago’s relations with the United States and China, among other challenges

“I’m afraid it will create some worry to our neighbours about Indonesia’s position towards ASEAN and the AsiaPacific,” said Kenawas.

Will Indonesia and Australia strengthen ties?

One of Prabowo’s first social media posts after polls closed told Indonesians he had spoken to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and analysts expect him to seek positive relations with Canberra.

Australia has sought to improve ties with Indonesia in a diplomatic charm offensive aimed at countering China and boosting trade.

And Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, who has previously called on Canberra to place greater emphasis on its billion-dollar trade relationship with Jakarta, said the government was looking forward to working with whoever wins the election.

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Gearing up for El Niño

T

HIS week, 41 of the country’s 82 provinces have been affected by the effects of the El Niño phenomenon, prompting government to ramp up efforts to temper its repercussions.

The bulletin board has been raised

by Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum that all provinces will be affected depending on the month, although he said the peak will be in April, a month earlier that expected, or starting as from the end of the Holy Week which in previous years inflicted blistering heat.

There is of course a Task Force El Niño, chaired by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. who emphasized this week the importance of the collective effort of various government agencies in addressing the impacts of drought.

Teodoro also noted the need to strengthen public information to engage people in preparedness measures.

The El Niño developed rapidly during July-August last year, and reached moderate strength by September and churned into a strong phenomenon from November 2023 to January 2024.

Weather authorities now say the possible dry spells and drought could

Eagle Eyes Tony La Viña

peak in April but the government, at the ready, revived a 2001 executive order creating a task force – chaired by Teodoro and co-chaired by Solidum – to start early preparations and resolve possible interventions.

—“—

There is an urgency to heed what Teodoro underscored as the importance of collective effort of government agencies in addressing the impacts of drought

Solidum said the effects of the weather phenomenon will gradually decrease from April to June, which means rainfall could be back to normal levels in May or June.

The Department of Science and Technology is expected to inform the local government units, being the first responders, on the conditions whether they can declare a state of calamity and use their calamity funds.

There is also the El Niño National Action Plan, a living document, subject to regular reviews and revisions to

maintain its relevance, effectiveness, and alignment with evolving circumstances, emerging challenges, stakeholder insights, and the attainment of specified objectives.

Based on the latest assessment of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Service Administration, the provinces of Batangas, Laguna, Masbate, Oriental Mindoro, Antique, Biliran, Capiz, Cebu, Eastern Samar, Guimaras, Iloilo, Leyte, Negros Oriental, Samar, Lanao del Norte, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi are now experiencing dry condition.

Provinces under a dry spell are Abra, Aurora, Bataan, Isabela, Metropolitan Manila, Occidental Mindoro, Quirino, Rizal, Zambales and Negros Occidental while under drought conditions are Apayao, Benguet, Cagayan, Cavite, Ifugao, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Kalinga, La Union, Mountain Province, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Palawan and Pangasinan.

Dry is when it is not a wet season, and the little rain dropping during that time is just normal for the period. Dry spell occurs when those little rains fall even below the normal for three consecutive months.

As the El Niño continues to exhale threats on the population, there is an urgency to heed what Teodoro underscored as the importance of collective effort of government agencies in addressing the impacts of drought.

They cannot be expected to turn a deaf ear to the call.

Our temptations

IN TODAY’S Gospel narrative taken from the Gospel of Mark, the Spirit sent Jesus out into the wilderness, and he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan.

He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.

Mark’s narrative is concise, simply acknowledging the event. In contrast, Matthew and Luke delve into the temptations by providing intricate dialogues between Jesus and Satan It’s significant to observe that it was “The Spirit” who led Jesus into the wilderness.

Jesus didn’t resist; instead, He willingly went there in accordance with the Father’s will and under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Why would the Spirit compel Jesus into this period of fasting, prayer, and temptation?

Primarily, this temptation followed immediately after Jesus’ baptism by John.

Even though Jesus didn’t require spiritual baptism Himself, these events hold profound lessons for us. They demonstrate that when we choose to follow Christ and live out our baptism, we receive strength to combat evil.

The grace is available. As new creations in Christ, we possess the grace necessary to overcome the evil one, sin, and temptation.

Thus, Jesus set an example to teach us this truth. He was baptized and then led into the desert to confront the evil one, showing that we too can conquer him and his deceitful schemes.

During Jesus’ time of temptation in the desert, “the angels ministered to him.” Similarly, we’re not left alone in our daily struggles with temptation.

Our Lord sends His angels to support

and aid us in overcoming this adversary.

What is your greatest temptation in life? Perhaps it’s a recurring sinful habit, a temptation of the flesh, or struggles with anger, self-righteousness, dishonesty, or other vices.

Regardless of the temptation, know that you possess the necessary resourc-

es to overcome it through the grace bestowed upon you at baptism, reinforced by confirmation, and sustained by participation in the Holy Eucharist.

It’s significant to observe that it was “The Spirit” who led Jesus into the wilderness. Jesus didn’t resist; instead, He willingly went there in accordance with the Father’s will and under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Why would the Spirit compel Jesus into this period of fasting, prayer, and temptation?

Primarily, this temptation followed immediately after Jesus’ baptism by

John. Even though Jesus didn’t require spiritual baptism Himself, these events hold profound lessons for us.

They demonstrate that when we choose to follow Christ and live out our baptism, we receive strength to combat evil. The grace is available.

As new creations in Christ, we possess the grace necessary to overcome the evil one, sin, and temptation. Thus, Jesus set an example to teach us this truth.

He was baptized and then led into the desert to confront the evil one, showing that we too can conquer him and his deceitful schemes.

During Jesus’ time of temptation in the desert, “the angels ministered to him.”

Similarly, we’re not left alone in our daily struggles with temptation. Our Lord sends His angels to support and aid us in overcoming this adversary.

The desert temptation illustrates Jesus as the humble Messiah, prevailing over Satan According to Benedict XVI, during the temptations, Satan endeavors to divert Jesus from a messianic mission of self-sacrifice toward one of power.

In this period of spiritual testing in the wilderness, Jesus confronts the dangers and allurements of the Evil One, who presents an alternative messianic route divergent from God’s design.

This alternative path revolves around power, worldly success, and dominion rather than the profound act of self-sacrifice embodied in the Cross.

The choice is stark: between a messianism centered on power and achievement or one grounded in love and the complete offering of oneself.

But Indonesia is one of several Asian countries to have expressed concerns about the AUKUS security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States.

What about the EU? Prabowo has railed against the European Union for restrictions on deforestation-related products, accusing the bloc of double standards, and questioning its relevance to global relations.

“There’s a shift in the world,” he said in a November speech.

“Now we don’t really need Europe any more.”

There is also criticism about his rights record after he was discharged from the army over kidnappings of activists in the late 1990s.

He has denied responsibility, but the negative perceptions in Europe remain, analysts say.

“It will be very hard for Prabowo to convince the world that he is capable of working with principles,” said Rezasyah.

“He needs to have a strong dream team that is friendly towards Europe.”

Will Prabowo offer another Ukraine peace plan?

Prabowo surprised Kyiv in mid-2023

when he proposed a plan to end the Ukraine war, apparently without having consulted President Joko Widodo.

He spoke of demilitarized zones guaranteed by observers and United Nations peacekeeping forces -- and a UN-observed referendum in “disputed areas.”

Kyiv called it a “strange proposal” and rejected it outright, calling it a Russian plan. The EU also criticized him.

Jakarta had previously tried to mediate peace but it is unlikely Prabowo will make another attempt. AFP

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

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

—“—

This alternative path revolves around power, worldly success, and dominion rather than the profound act of self-sacrifice embodied in the Cross

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

Associate Editor Managing Editor News Editor

Emil P. Jurado

Honor Blanco Cabie Opinion Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

B2

WORLD

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Zelensky in Berlin, Paris for support, security pacts billions of dollars of Western aid is in doubt, with the biggest contributor, the United States, in the throes of an election year.

A possible $60-billion package of military aid has been held up in Washington since last year because of wrangling in Congress.

The EU has also admitted that it will only be able to make good on half of the one million artillery shells it promised to send by March.

During his tour of Europe’s heavyweights, Germany and France, Zelensky will seek to lock down security guarantees for his country when the war is over.

The German government said that Chancellor Olaf Scholz would on Friday sign a bilateral security pact that covered Ukraine’s “longterm security commitments and support”. AFP

BERLIN, Germany – Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky travels Friday to Berlin and Paris where he is due to sign security deals with the two European giants and seek further support for Kyiv’s battle against Russia.

With the war in Ukraine about to enter its third year, Zelensky will also bring his plea for sustained help on financing and armaments to the Munich Security Conference, where leaders including US Vice President Kamala Harris are due to gather.

Zelensky’s European tour comes at a critical time for Ukrainian troops, who are facing an increasingly diffiManila cult situation on the eastern Standard frontlines because of amTODAY munition shortages and fresh Russian attacks.

The long-term future of

INVITATION TO BID ORIENTAL MINDORO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. (ORMECO, INC.), through its BIDS AND AWARDS COMMITTEE (BAC), hereby intends to apply the sum of Fifteen Million Five Hundred Sixty Five Thousand Fifty and 00/100 Pesos Only (₱15,565,050.00) funded by 5% Reinvestment Fund and Twenty Million Five Hundred Ninety Thousand Seven Hundred Ninety Two and 32/100 Pesos Only (₱20,590,792.32) funded by General Fund inclusive of all applicable taxes and fees, being the Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC), for the procurement, supply, and delivery of materials/supplies/equipment.

1.

ORMECO, INC. now calls for the submission of a Letter of Intent by the interested bidders thru email at ormeco.bac.official@gmail.com. The list of the ORMECO, INC. Eligibility Requirements may be viewed at www.ormecoinc.com, https://www.facebook.com/OrientalMindoroElectricCooperativeInc, and can be requested through email ormeco_coop@yahoo.com, or call the contact numbers listed above. An amount of One Thousand Pesos (₱1,000.00) is required as Accreditation Fee;

2.

ORMECO, INC. now invites suppliers for the following:

3.

LOT

ITEM DESCRIPTION

ABC (INCLUSIVE OF VAT)

COST OF BID DOCUMENTS (NONREFUNDABLE)

I-A

Supply of Meter, kWh, 1 Phase, Class 100, 2W, 240V, 60Hz, Electronic, FM1S, Socket Type with Meter, Base Socket, CL-100, 4 Jaws. 100 Amp., 600V, 1” Hub

₱6,125,000.00

₱10,000.00

I-B

Supply of Meter, KWH, 3 Phase. Class 20, 120/480V, 4W, Electronic, Demand & Energy with TOU

₱346,800.00

₱500.00

II

Supply of Pole Hardware Materials for Replacement of Rotten Poles Project

₱5,593,250.00

₱10,000.00

III

Supply of Design, Labor and Materials for the Construction of Office in Roxas Substation

₱3,500,000.00

₱5,000.00

IV

Supply of Manpower Services (TOR)

₱8,650,792.32

₱10,000.00

V

Supply of Security Services

₱4,940,000.00

₱5,000.00

VI

Consumer Insurance Program and Group Personal Accident Insurance

₱7,000,000.00

₱10,000.00

FUNDING SOURCE

5% Reinvestment Fund

General Fund

4.

Specifications and Technical details of the project is included in the Bid Documents. Proof of payment/s of the Bidding Documents shall be sent to the BAC via email (ormeco.bac.official@gmail.com). Upon validation of the payment/s, the BAC shall email the scanned copy of the bidding Documents and Official Receipts to the Bidders email address declared in the Letter of Intent.

5.

The schedule of bidding activities is as follows: SCHEDULE

Invitation to Bid

17 February 2024 (Saturday)

Last day of Submission of Letter of Intent thru email / Availability of Bidding Documents

Before the start of the scheduled Pre-Bid Conference thru ormeco.bac.official@gmail.com or hand-carry at ORMECO, INC. 9:00 am for Lot I-A 27 February 2024 (Tuesday) at ORMECO, INC. Board Room

10:00 am for Lot I-B 1:00 pm for Lot IV

Pre-Bid Conference

2:30 pm for Lot V 9:00 am for Lot VI 28 February 2024 (Wednesday) at ORMECO, INC. Board Room

10:30 am for Lot II 1:00 pm for Lot III

Deadline of Acceptance for the Submission of Accreditation (Hard Copy)

11 March 2024 (Monday) Office Hours, at ORMECO, INC. Office

Until 5:00 pm 9:00 am for Lot I-A

12 March 2024 (Tuesday) at ORMECO, INC. Board Room

10:00 am for Lot I-B 1:00 pm for Lot IV

Deadline of Bid Submission/ Opening and Evaluation of Bids

3:00 pm for Lot V 9:00 am for Lot VI 13 March 2024 (Wednesday) at ORMECO, INC. Board Room

soldier flashing the V-sign for victory atop a tank moving along the border, amid ongoing battles between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Prime Minster Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said it had not received ‘any new proposal’ from Hamas about releasing hostages, CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK and Israeli media reported the country’s delegation would not return to negotiations until Hamas had softened its stance. AFP

Israel dispatches soldiers into hospital in Gaza city P

ALESTINIAN Territories – Israel sent troops into a hospital in war-torn Gaza on Thursday where it said hostages may have been held, as medics warned the key medical facility was operating in “near impossible” conditions.

The raid came after days of intense fighting between troops and Hamas militants around the Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis -- one of the largest medical sites in southern Gaza, and one of the territory’s few hospitals that are still operational.

Israel, which has accused Hamas militants of using hospitals for military purposes, said it was carrying out a “precise and limited operation” at the facility with “no obligation” for patients or staff to evacuate.

Israeli army spokesman Daniel Hagari said there was “credible intelligence from a number of sources, including released hostages, indicating that Hamas held hostages at the Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis and that there may be bodies of our hostages” there.

The health ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza reported that thousands of people who had sought refuge in the complex, including patients, have been made to leave in recent days.

It has called the situation at Nasser “catastrophic”, with staff unable to move bodies

to the morgue because of the risks involved.

Medical charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF) described a “chaotic situation” in the hospital after it was shelled early Thursday, killing and wounding multiple people.

“Our medical staff have had to flee the hospital, leaving patients behind,” MSF said, with one employee unaccounted for and another detained by Israeli forces.

The World Health Organization has described Nasser Hospital as a critical facility “for all of Gaza”, where only a minority of hospitals are even partly operational.

Roughly 130 hostages are still believed to be in Gaza after the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Hamas militants, which resulted in the deaths of about 1,160 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. AFP

Trump judge sets March 25 date for criminal trial

COMMANDING LEAD. The front page of

Bidding will be conducted through open competitive bidding procedures using non-discretionary “pass/fail” criterion as specified in the NEA Memorandum NO. 2017-019: Revised Procurement Guidelines and Simplified Bidding Procedures for Electric Cooperatives, IRR-RA 10531 (2017);

ACTIVITIES

TOUGH STANCE. A picture taken from a position in southern Israel along the border with the Gaza Strip on Thursday shows an Israeli

10:30 am for Lot II 1:00 pm for Lot III

Post-Qualification

19 – 23 March 2024

Approval through Board Resolution and Issuance of Notice of Award

Board Meeting for the Month of April 2024

Signing of Contract

After Issuance of Notice of Award

Delivery Schedule

To be announced during the Pre-Bid Conference

6.

Only those who have a validated payment/s of the Bidding Documents shall be allowed to attend or participate during the Pre-Bidding Conference;

7.

All bids shall be opened and read in the presence of the Accredited Bidders or their duly authorized representatives. All bids shall be accompanied by a Bid Security equivalent to 2% of ABC.

8.

The winning bidder shall issue Performance Security in the form of Cash, Cashier’s Check, Manager’s Check, issued by a Universal or Commercial Bank, equivalent to five percent (5%) of the Contract Price; and

9.

ORMECO, INC. reserves the right to accept or reject any bids, declare a failure of bidding, and not to award the contract without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders. ORMECO, INC. also has no responsibility whatsoever to compensate or indemnify bidders for any expenses incurred in the preparation of their bids.

SGD

SGD

ENGR. JOHN EZEKIEL M. SANTIAGO, MBA Chairperson, Bids and Awards Committee (BAC)

HUMPHREY A. DOLOR, PECE, MBA Head of Procuring Entity (HOPE)

a local English newspaper shows Indonesia’s Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto (left) and Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Surakarta City mayor and Indonesian President Joko Widodo’s son, at a book store a day after the country’s presidential and legislative elections in Jakarta on Thursday.

The fiery populist on Wednesday claimed a “victory for all Indonesians” based on preliminary results by governmentapproved pollsters -- previously shown to be reliable -- that showed he was set for a first-round majority. AFP

Defense chief Prabowo on course to big win in Indonesia with over half of votes counted JAKARTA, Indonesia – Indonesian DefenSe Minister Prabowo Subianto was on course to win the archipelago’s presidential election by a wide margin, election commission results showed Friday, with 50 percent of votes counted.

The official result is not expected until late March but early indications all point to the 72-year-old ex-general being anointed successor to popular outgoing leader Joko Widodo.

With half the ballots now counted, Prabowo holds a commanding 56.89 percent of votes, more than double his nearest rival and enough for a first-round majority, the election commission’s website showed.

Former Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan stood at 25.27 percent on Friday morning and former Central Java governor Ganjar Pranowo had 17.84 percent of the vote.

“Thank God, we must be grateful and continue to monitor the KPU’s official results,” Prabowo wrote on Instagram late Thursday, referring to the general election commission.

The fiery populist on Wednesday claimed a “victory for all Indonesians” based on preliminary results by government-approved pollsters -- previously shown to be reliable -- that showed he was set for a first-round majority. AFP

NEW YORK – A New York judge on Thursday (Friday in Manila) rejected Donald Trump’s attempts to dismiss charges of covering up hush money payments to a porn star, setting the stage for the first criminal trial of a former US president to begin on March 25.

At the same time, Trump’s representatives attended a fiery hearing in Atlanta, pushing to have the prosecutors bringing separate charges of election fraud and racketeering against Trump disqualified from the case.

They are just two of four criminal cases facing the Republican frontrunner as he campaigns to retake the White House, with his legal teams thus far failing to push the actual trials until after the November 5 vote.

Trump, who has seized on his legal woes to rev up his supporters and denounce Democratic opponent Joe Biden, reiterated his claim that the charges were “just a way of hurting me in the election.”

“How can you run for election if you are sitting in a courthouse in Manhattan all day long,” he said as he arrived.

In the courtroom, his legal team argued he would not receive a fair trial in New York because another Manhattan jury awarded $83 million to E. Jean Carroll, a writer whom Trump was found to have sexually assaulted and defamed. AFP

Greece legalizes same-sex marriage, adoption ATHENS, Greece – Greece’s parliament on Thursday overwhelmingly adopted a bill legalising same-sex marriage and adoption in a landmark reform promoted by the conservative government despite opposition from the powerful Orthodox Church.

Once the law is promulgated, Greece will become the 37th country in the world and the first Orthodox Christian one to legalize adoption by same-sex families.

The bill, which was supported by the New Democracy party of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, was approved with 176 votes out of the 245 MPs present following two days of debates.

“This is a milestone for human rights, reflecting today’s Greece -- a progressive, and democratic country, passionately com-

mitted to European values,” Mitsotakis said on X, formerly Twitter.

When the result was announced, dozens of people waving rainbow flags celebrated in front of the parliament building in central Athens.

Although dozens of ruling New Democracy party legislators were expected to oppose the bill, support from opposition parties meant it was certain to pass.

Mitsotakis, who personally spearheaded the bill, had urged lawmakers to “boldly abolish a serious inequality” in Greek democracy that had rendered same-sex families “invisible”.

The reform would “significantly improve the lives of quite a few of our fellow citizens, without taking away anything from the lives of the many”, he added. AFP

‘DAY OF JOY.’ Visitors react after the parliamentary vote on same-sex marriage in Athens, on Thursday. The legalization of same-sex marriage in Greece, adopted

by MPs is ‘a turning point for human rights,’ according to conservative Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who championed the reform. AFP

BUSINESS

B3 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024

extrastory2000@gmail.com

PEZA readies rules for pharma zones PRSP BOARD. Officers

and members of the board of trustees of the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) 20242025 take their oath before Presidential Communications Office Secretary Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil at at Malacanang. This year’s board includes Andy Saracho of Philippine Veterans Bank, Norman Agatep of Grupo Agatep, Mikey de Quiros of Full Circle, Franz De La Fuente of Aboitiz Group, Cel Rosales Amores of Ayala Foundation Inc., Louie Paragas Sebastian of Page One Group, Ana Pista of Ardent Communications, Abigail Ho-Torres of Maynilad, Dr. Rey Runtgen Martin del Rosario of International Peace Diplomacy Corps Inc. and Jika Mendoza-Dalupan.

Philippine stock market ends three-day advance amid profit-taking

By Jenniffer B. Austria PHILIPPINE stocks slipped amid profit-taking on Friday to end a three-day advance.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index retreated 8.92 points, or 0.13 percent, to close at 6,873.23, while the broader all-shares index went down by 3.88 points, or 0.11 percent, to settle at 3,597.67.

Philstocks Financial Inc. research analyst Claire Alviar said the market declined as investors cashed in on previous gains.

“The local market mostly traded in green territory amid positive developments in the local economy.,” Alviar said, before it closed lower.

Alviar said the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ move to reduce its risk-adjusted inflation forecast for 2024 to 3.9 percent, robust dollar remittances and approved foreign investment pledges in 2023 were among the positive developments for the economy.

Net value turnover reached P4.38 billion.

Meanwhile, Asian markets rose Friday, supported by Wall Street and eurozone records, as traders shrugged off weak US retail sales and recession in Britain and Japan.

US and European stocks rallied Thursday, with the broad-based S&P 500 up 0.6 percent to finish at an all-time high, along with Paris and Frankfurt.

London equities increased despite official data showing the UK entered recession at the end of last year, as high inflation prolonged a cost-of-living crisis.

Japan also entered recession in the back end of 2023, according to data released Thursday, with the Asian nation overtaken by Germany as the world’s third-biggest economy.

But overall Asian shares were headed for “their fourth consecutive weekly gain, potentially marking the longest winning streak in over a year unless they experience an unlikely decline” of more than 1 percent on Friday, said Stephen Innes of SPI Asset Management. With AFP

KonsultaMD teams up with Forticare Health

By Darwin G. Amojelar KONSULTAMD said it teamed up with Forticare Health System International Inc. to expand access to quality healthcare across the country.

Under the partnership, Forticare members now have free access to an array of KonsultaMD services. These include voice and video consults with licensed doctors for general and mental health concerns, e-prescriptions, e-laboratory requests, e-medical certificates and KonsultaMD partner benefits, along with the option to upgrade to an annual personal plan.

“With the trend of the market right now, it’s going digital. It’s a great help for us, especially for our members, to easily avail of their medical benefits,” said Patrick Joseph Nadal, president and chief executive of Forticare Health Systems.

Jayson Pablo, provider relations associate at Forticare, expressed the company’s vision of having KonsultaMD as its foremost partner in medical teleconsultation for years ahead.

“Being partner with KonsultaMD made us more flexible and accessible to our clients. With healthcare digitalization in our company, our members, especially those in remote areas, will be able to avail of our medical services easily and conveniently using teleconsultation,” he said.

Forticare provides quality, affordable healthcare to thousands of Filipinos through collaborations with accredited hospitals and medical professionals.

PLDT’S ANVIL AWARD. PLDT Enterprise, the corporate business arm of PLDT Inc., wins a silver Anvil award under the PR Programs – Marketing and Brand Communication Category, for its 2023 public relations and marketing campaign ‘VISIONARIES’.

Attending the awarding ceremony are (from left) Vanessa Marielle Baltao, PLDT Enterprise head of brand communications; Rachel Ann Tablante, head of brand strategy; Reanne Mae Borines Sr., brand communications specialist; and Meynard Joseph Landrito, digital engagement specialist.

RCBC expands digital loan offerings to empower customers RIZAL Commercial Banking Corp.

(RCBC) said it continues to empower individuals with its newest flexible digital loan solution to help them thrive financially with RCBC Salary Loan NOW. RCBC Salary Loan NOW is the bank’s latest digital loan offer that RCBC payroll customers can exclusively avail via RCBC Pulz. This offer enables pre-qualified clients to borrow up to P100,000, payable up to 12 months.

The bank said application takes

only a few seconds, and loan proceeds are instantly credited to the employee’s RCBC payroll account.

Loan payment is convenient as the monthly amortization is automatically debited on their scheduled payroll date, and tailored to the number of payroll credits per month.

“We want to shift borrowing from informal lenders, such as ATM sangla, [a practice where the employee gives his/her ATM Card as a guarantee to the person he/she is borrowing from], and move them to RCBC, a

proper financial channel. This way, the employees do not need to pay for exorbitant rates provided by loan sharks,” said Arniel Vincent Ong, head of RCBC credit cards and personal loans.

The bank in 2023 introduced RCBC Payday NOW, a facility that allowed payroll customers to advance up to 40 percent of their monthly salaries, also through RCBC Pulz. Funds are received in real-time and repayment automatically occurs in two paydays or a maximum of 45 days.

ALLHC welcomes Asiaphil as newest locator in Laguindingan Technopark THE Laguindingan Technopark, AyalaLand Logistics Holdings Corp.

(ALLHC)’s first Mindanao-based industrial park, welcomed Asiaphil Inc. as its newest locator.

Founded in 1973 and originally known as Asiaphil Manufacturing Industries, Inc., the firm has over 25 domestic locations around the Philippines and five overseas locations in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, Hongkong, Singapore and Italy.

Its facility in Laguindingan Technopark marks the company’s first manufacturing site in Mindanao.

Committed to providing world-class power connection solutions to customers, Asiaphil Inc. envisions building a comprehensive infrastructure within the property, including a metal fabrica-

tion and painting factory, a staging area for substation construction and a transformer oil testing center.

“Asiaphil is committed to delivering a pleasant experience to our diverse stakeholders, and proximity to our Mindanao customers is crucial to fulfilling this commitment. Our expansion into Laguindingan Technopark is a strategic move, since it offers the ideal environment for our company’s growth and innovation,” said Asiaphil president Victor Batungbacal.

“We are thankful for our collaboration with ALLHC, which ensured our seamless integration into the industrial park. We look forward to contributing to the success of Laguindingan Technopark as we work further along,” said Batungbacal.

STRONG PARTNERSHIP. Manila Electric Company (Meralco) pledges to continue its strong and effective collaboration with the Philippine National Police Regional Office 4A (Calabarzon) during the latter’s flag raising ceremony on Feb. 12, 2024 in Calamba City, Laguna. The officials underscored how the partnership helped in ensuring public safety through the effective enforcement of the Anti-Pilferage of Electricity and Theft of Electric Transmission Lines/Materials Act of 1994. Attending the ceremony are (from left) PNP Calabarzon acting chief of regional staff PCol. Julius Suriben, acting deputy regional director for operations PCol. Mariano Rodriguez, acting director for regional internal affairs services PCol. Alberto Villapando and the Meralco contingent led by revenue assurance and metering services head Marvin Gonsalves.

By Othel V. Campos

T

HE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) is preparing the registration guidelines to help foreign pharmaceutical companies set up operations in the Philippines.

PEZA director-general Tereso Panga said the agency was closely working with the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Philippine Chamber of Pharmaceutical Industries (PCPI) in crafting the guidelines for the registration of pharma zones.

“In all these, we hope to see the pharma parks creating a platform for increased R&D, technology transfer, registration of local patents and a complete ecosystem that will enable the country to produce its own medicines and provide access to quality, affordable medicines, medical products and healthcare for all Filipinos,” Panga said.

PEZA is looking at increased medical and drug manufacturing-related investments with the creation of pharmaceutical economic zones.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., in a sectoral meeting on Tuesday, floated the idea of establishing pharma-zones as one-stop shops to make the drug application process more accessible and efficient.

The FDA said pharma-zones established in PEZA-controlled areas would enable the agency to immediately test and register medicines upon entry to the Philippines.

“These pharma ecozones will, in the future, boost local supply as well as provide business and capability building opportunities particularly for Filipino SMEs into manufacturing and tolling of drugs and food supplements,” said Panga.

“We can contribute to the DTI’s science, technology and innovationdriven industrialization strategy through the pharma zones that will seek to strengthen partnerships between global drug manufacturing companies and the local industry players with their integration into the ecozone and global value chains,” Panga said.

PEZA earlier signed a memorandum of agreement with the FDA to streamline the applications for permits and licenses of locators engaged in the manufacture of food, cosmetic, drugs and medical devices.

CMIP, TESDA sign agreement on training hub CONCEPCION Midea Incorporated Philippines (CMIP), one of the country’s leading appliance manufacturers, signed a partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority - NCR (TESDA-NCR) to augment the government agency’s resources in providing high-quality technical education facility.

The initiative, a part of CMIP’s social collaboration programs, aims to provide a technical training hub with up-to-date equipment and tools, enhancing TESDA’s programs related to HVAC (heating, ventilating and air-conditioning) and home appliance repair and installation with the integration of Internet of Things.

This aksi seeks to help produce competent and reliable technical workforce aligned with TESDA’s NC II and NC III regulations and certifications.

“This memorandum of agreement signing signifies more than just a formal commitment, it represents a milestone that collaborates effort between TESDA-Navotas, CMIP and the city of Navotas. Together, we are dedicated to achieving a common goal, the establishment of an accessible, relevant, and conducive training facility for Filipinos who wish to learn and improve their technical skills,” said CMIP general manager Anna Marie Alejandro.

“What’s important to focus on now is for us to reach those who are meant to benefit from this partnership. All of the primary concerns they face currently will be solved only if they have a livelihood which we aim to provide,” said TESDA NCR regional director Jovencio Ferrer Jr.

BUSINESS

B4

SATURDAY,FEBRUARY 17, 2024

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

2023 investment approvals climbed to a record P1.47t

I

NVESTMENT pledges in 2023 reached an all-time high of P1.47 trillion, data collated by the Philippine Statistics Authority from various agencies show.

The figure was up by 57 percent from P934 billion registered in 2022 and surpassed the previous record of P1.3 trillion in 2019.

The PSA obtained the data from the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), Board of Investments (BOI), BOI-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BOI-BARMM), Clark Development Corp. (CDC), Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA), Clark International Airport Corp.

(CIAC), Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), Poro Point Management Corp. (PPMC), Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone Authority (ZCSEZA).

The BOI accounted for the bulk of the total investment commitments at P1.26 trillion, while the Philippine Economic Zone Authority contributed P175.7 billion. They were followed by AFAB with P10.77 billion; SBMA with P10.72 billion; BOIBARRM with P3 billion; and CDC with P2.86 billion.

Data show that of the total, foreign

AirAsia reports higher booked flights to Boracay BORACAY remains among the top destinations for AirAsia Philippines, with 250,000 bookings already secured for travel between February and May. This represents 72 percent of last year’s 377,000 guests flown to the island, according to AirAsia Philippines.

The airline said the increasing figure was expected to contribute to Boracay’s economy, especially as the Department of Tourism and the local government of Aklan expect more than 2.3 million tourists to visit the island this year.

“Boracay is top three in our most visited domestic destinations. It is not just the summer when we see an influx of guests flying to Boracay, but all-year round,” AirAsia head of communications and public affairs Steve Dailisan said.

“During the pandemic, this island was a haven for remote work setup. Now, the island has regained its fame for short and long vacations,” he said.

The other top destinations are Bohol, Cebu and Puerto Princesa.

TravelOnlinePH opened its travel and service center in Boracay to provide more convenience, especially for guests who are planning to extend their vacation on the paradise island. Darwin G. Amojelar and Joel E. Zurbano

investments (FI) accounted for P889 billion in 2023, up by 267 percent from P242 billion in 2022.

The PSA said that in the fourth quarter of 2023, FIs reached P394.45 billion, an increase of 127.2 percent from the P173.61 billion in the same quarter of 2022.

“Of the total approved FI for the fourth quarter of 2023, Netherlands posted the highest investment commitment amounting to P345.76 billion or 87.7 percent. It was followed

by Japan at P31.37 billion, and Singapore at P4.99 billion,” the PSA said.

Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply industry received the largest amount of approved investments at P335.87 billion or 85.1 percent of the total approved total foreign investments in the fourth quarter.

This was followed by manufacturing with P48.96 billion and administrative and support service activities with P5.70 billion, with a share of 12.4 percent and 1.4 percent, respectively.

Among the regions in the country, Bicol Region received the largest share of pledged investments amounting to P162.92 billion or 41.3 percent of the total approved FIs in the fourth quarter.

Officials from Jollibee Group and First Gen Corp. lead the switch-on rites of Canlubang Baking Facility’s solar panels. They are (from left) Ronaldo Sales, Zenith Foods Corp. (ZFC) assistant vice president and plant head of ZFC’s Canlubang Baking Facility; Carlos Lorenzo Vega, First Gen vice president for power marketing, trading and economics; Michael Ong, vicepresident and head of supply chain management of ZFC; Mayor Rosseller Rizal of Calamba City; Julius Leyba, assistant vice president and head of engineering services of ZFC; Mark Malabanan, First Gen assistant vice president for solar; and Manny Portugal, First Gen head of technology solutions.

First Gen builds Jollibee’s largest rooftop solar plant THE Jollibee Group, through its subsidiary Zenith Foods Corp. (ZFC), tapped the expertise of First Gen Corp. unit Pi Energy Inc. to energize a third of the food company’s manufacturing facility with solar-powered electricity.

Executives of Jollibee Group and First Gen, together with Calamba City Mayor Roseller Rizal, led the recent switch-on rites in Canlubang, Calamba City, Laguna.

The Jollibee Group continues to accelerate its shift to renewable energy by operating 6,300 solar panels in its Canlubang Baking Facility (CBF), the company’s most extensive solar panel installation.

The initiative is part of the Jollibee Group’s commitment to more sustainable business practices, guided by its global sustainability agenda Joy for Tomorrow.

Jollibee Group supply chain head Michael Ong underscored the company’s drive to lessen the environmental impact of its supply chain operations.

“In our quest to bring the joy of eating not only for today’s generation but that of tomorrow’s, we integrate solar energy into our state-of-the-art Canlubang Baking Facility. This is our largest installation to date, but this is also just the beginning. We have more locations planned in the months ahead, and we are determined to accelerate further our journey towards carbon neutrality,” he said.

Rizal cited the project’s role in helping achieve the city’s goals on sustainability for the business community.

“Your [ZFC] initiative to promote sustainability in your facilities will not only have positive results for your company, but it will also be in solidarity with the government’s call for a more orderly operation of companies that consider many factors, including those that concern our environment,” he said.

Ong and his team at ZFC started accelerating the integration of sustainable business practices into the Jollibee Group’s commissaries and

logistics centers in 2020.

The CBF is now the second of the four target sites for solar panel installation. The first one was Zen3, also in Canlubang, which was installed with 3,000 solar panels in November 2023.

The solar panel installation in the two other sites is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2024.

These commissaries and logistics centers support the Jollibee Group’s portfolio of brands in the Philippines such as Jollibee, Greenwich, Burger King, Red Ribbon, Chowking and Mang Inasal.

First Gen constructed four rooftop solar power plants for ZFC’s commissaries, cold storage, and logistics facilities.

“We are thankful to Jollibee Group’s ZFC for their trust in our company to be their reliable energy partner in our shared vision of a cleaner and greener future for this generation and the next,” said First Gen vice president for power marketing, trading and economics Carlo Vega.

Recto asks companies to participate in PPP projects to address water problems

By Darwin G. Amojelar

GAMEDEV SUMMIT. Officials of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with executives of GameOps Inc. and the Game Developers Association of the Philippines (GDAP), kick-start the first GameDev Summit (GDS) on Feb. 15, 2024 at Boracay Island in Aklan province. Attended by over 300 participants and over 72 companies from 32 countries, the GDS 2024 gathered experts, advocates and enthusiasts in the game development industry. It also featured the main stage of the External Development Summit (XDS) – an annual international games industry event with a primary focus on external development for art, animation, audio, software engineering, QA and localization.

FINANCE Secretary Ralph Recto invited investors to participate in public-private partnerships (PPPs) to address the Philippines’ long-standing water challenges.

Recto recently briefed potential investors on investment prospects for PPPs under the President’s Build Better More program, which consists of 198 high-impact infrastructure flagship projects (IFPs) worth P8.8 trillion (about $155 billion).

Data showed that of the total, 44 projects focus on water resources with an indicative investment amount of P839.2 billion (about $14 billion).

“I invite you to take a closer look at these projects and uncover the myriad of opportunities awaiting your partnership with us,” Recto said.

Sunlight Air prepares to transfer operations to Clark on April 1 BOUTIQUE airline Sunlight Air said Friday it will move its operations to Clark International Airport (CRK) from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 4 starting April 1, 2024.

“Our passengers are our top priority and are at the center of our operations.

This move was made with the consideration and evaluation of the feedback we receive, and the topline service we work to provide,” Sunlight Air chief executive Ryna Brito-Garcia said.

“With this shift, Sunlight Air strives to provide even more passengers with our quality services, as well as a better airline experience overall in terms

of heightened efficiency and reliability. We are confident in the added comfort that will come with serving our customers from CRK which was recently recognized and awarded for its top-notch facilities and world-class design,”she said.

The airline said that passengers with existing flights booked from NAIA would receive an advisory on changes to their bookings following the transition.

It said it would provide shared shuttle services from NAIA to CRK. The majority of flights booked for departure or arrival until March 31, 2024 are expected to proceed at

NAIA, it said.

Clark International Airport recently opened new local and international routes and expects to double passenger volume.

Sunlight Air expressed hope it would further increase its flight frequency, open more routes and provide more Filipinos with its signature boutique airline experience with the transfer to CRK. Sunlight Air services flights between Manila and Coron, Siargao, Naga and San Vicente and will open routes to Boracay and regular flights to and from Cebu in April.

Darwin G. Amojelar

GCash obtains Bangko Sentral’s approval to launch service for Filipinos in 16 countries

AWARD-WINNING PR. The Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP), represented by Robby Carmona (fourth from left) and Georgina Banzon (right), present three Silver Anvil Awards to BDO Unibank Inc. during the 59th Anvil Awards Gabi ng Parangal on Jan. 31, 2024 at the Marriott Grand Ballroom in Newport City, Pasay.

MOBILE wallet GCash said Friday it obtained the approval of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to allow more Filipinos overseas to use the app with their international mobile numbers.

Initially available in beta to users in the US, Canada, Italy, the UK, Australia and Japan, the BSP’s approval paves the way for the full rollout of the service and expansion to 10 more countries.

These include the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Spain and Germany.

“In 2024 and beyond, we are doubling down on our mission to serve our users beyond Philippine shores.

With around 13 million Filipinos living abroad, we recognize and answer the need for them to be present for their families back home and remain in control of helping build the financial future of their loved ones,” said RenRen Reyes, president and CEO of GXchange Inc., the operator of GCash.

GCash users in these 16 countries can sign up with their international mobile numbers with their Philippine passport or other Philippine Valid ID as proof of identity.

Recto assured investors of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s strong commitment to championing PPPs, as evidenced by the swift enactment of the PPP Code of the Philippines.

“Along with the amendments to the Public Service Act, the PPP Code rolls out a red carpet to investors, offering a stable, predictable and competitive environment where high-quality PPP investments can thrive,” he said.

The PPP Code leverages over three decades of experience with the Build-Operate-Transfer Law and integrates best practices to streamline processes, reduce transaction costs and enhance the ease of doing business for PPPs. The implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the law are in the final stages and will be released soon, he said.

Manila Water exceeds service connection target MANILA Water Company Inc. said it exceeded its projected water service connection target for 2023 by almost 20 percent.

The company said that from January to November 2023, its new domestic connections reached 23,701, above the full-year target of 19,898.

The east zone concessionaire said that since 1997, it has installed and energized 1,167,231 water service connections that consists of over 1.1 million domestic connections and over 56,000 commercial/industrial connections.

This development assures that its over 7.6 million customers are provided 24/7 clean and potable water, the company said.

The water concessionaire said it ensures water safety and maintains the proper water pressure in the east zone of Metro Manila and parts of Rizal.

The company said it has been complying 100 percent to the stringent parameters of the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water. This guarantees that water until the customer’s meter is safe to drink.

The expansion of water supply services is made possible by the company’s low non-revenue water (NRW)—or water that is wasted due to leaks and illegal connections.

C1

SPORTS

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor Cignal HD’s Lloyd Josafat tries to beat Iloilo D’Navigators’ Jester Bornel.

Cignal takes on Iloilo in final faceoff of unbeaten teams ONE team will be left standing without a scar as unbeaten teams Cignal HD and Iloilo D’Navigators duke it out for the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Champions League men’s crown after disposing of their respective semifinals assignments.

The HD Spikers swept VNS Asereht, 25-14, 25-15, 25-22 while the D’Navigators clobbered College of Saint Benilde, 25-21, 25-16, 25-19, in the knockout semifinals to forge a titular showdown Thursday night at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

With little to no break, Cignal and Iloilo plunge into action at 5:30 p.m. today (Saturday) in the one-game championship of the first event by the PNVF backed by PLDT, Ayala Land, Nuvali, Cignal, One Sports, One Sports+, Mikasa, Senoh, Foton, Philippine Olympic Committee and the Philippine Sports Commission.

VNS and Saint Benilde battle for the bronze medal at 3 p.m.

“We prepared hard for the semis, we always treat is one match at a time,” Cignal HD coach Dexter Clamor said.

Cignal HD won’t play in the final middle blocker Nastin Gwaza who sprained his

Squires’ coach Ricardo named interim mentor of Knights LETRAN Squires’ mentor Allen Ricardo is stepping in as the interim head coach of the Knights.

For now, Ricardo is being groomed to temporarily take the place of Rensy Bajar as the Knights prepare for season 100 of the National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament.

School officials confirmed their appointment of Ricardo on a social media post Friday afternoon.

The replacement of Bajar came after the Knights experienced their worst season last year, dropping to the bottom of the standings with their 2-16 win-loss record.

Ricardo made an impression after he coached the Letran Squires to a title in 98th NCAA junior cagefest and is back to help them to a title retention bid.

His entry into the junior division last season saw the Squires ending a two decades-long title drought.

The Squires, however, lost their second game of season 99 on Friday to the San Beda Red Cubs, 72-88 at the FilOil-EcoOil Arena in San Juan.

Kirk Canete showed the way for the Red Cubs with 24 points, while Moses Manalili knocked in 18 points for the Squires.

The Squires now have a 1-1 slate, after swamping the Jose Rizal University Light Bombers, 102-64, in their opening game last week.

The Letran Squires had a historic finish in Season 98 when they halted a 22-year title drought by beating the College of Saint Benilde-La Salle Green Hills twice in the finals.

Meanwhile, the University of Perpetual Help Junior Altas and the San Sebastian Staglets posted their second straight wins to stay in the lead.

The Junior Altas, led by Mark Cruz with 25 points, smothered Emilio Aguinaldo College, while Ruvic Danog shot 18 points in leading the Staglets to a 101-62 crushing of the Lyceum Junior Pirates.

Peter Atencio

ankle in the Saint Benilde match, but Clamor still has the luxury of a deep bench led by Joshua Umandal and Mark Frederick Calado, who had 11 points each in the semifinals.

Lloyd Josafat had nine while captain JP Bugaoan and Wendel Miguel added seven points apiece in their 93-minute contest against the Blazers.

Cignal HD is out for redemption after surrendering its throne to University of Santo Tomas in five thrilling sets last year.

But that would be easier said than done as the D’Navigators appear to be an equally lethal if not a more dangerous foe.

“We’re well-prepared. We’re here not to compete. We’re here to win,” said veteran spiker Jayvee Sumagasaysay who had nine points in their win over VNS in only 80 minutes.

“We’ll fight them off, point for point,” said coach Rizalito Delmoro, who also drew 19 and 13 points from John San Andres and Francis Saura, respectively.

In the classification matches, Savouge Spin Doctors drubbed the Philippine Air Force, 25-21, 25-18, 25-18, while the Philippine Army trounced the Philippine Navy, 25-23, 25-17, 25-17.

Gilas opens door to fans anew

By Randy Caluag

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ILAS Pilipinas, under coach Tim Cone, started to assemble on Thursday and once again will open its door to fans on Monday (Feb. 19) in a sendoff open practice at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

Under Cone’s leadership and the innovative approach of Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, the Gilas Pilipinas squad has been proactively engaging with fans through various social gatherings and fan appreciation days.

This practice of inviting the public to witness their training sessions began in September last year, ahead of their triumphant journey to the Asian Games competition in Hang-

Coach Tim Cone supervises Gilas Pilipinas’ training session.

zhou, China, where they clinched the gold medal.

The team is continuing this tradition as they gear up for their upcoming game against Hong Kong on Feb. 22 in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers 1st Window at the Tsuen Wan Stadium in Taiwan.

After this, Gilas will face Chinese Taipei on Feb. 25 at the PhilSports Arena.

Gilas’ practice sessions commenced on Thursday at the Inspire Sports Academy in Laguna, with key players such as naturalized player Justin Brownlee, and Japan

B Leaguers Kai Sotto and Dwight Ramos actively participating.

Sotto is eagerly anticipating another Gilas tour under Cone’s guidance.

He arrived on Monday afternoon following a successful stint with Hiroshima, concluding his campaign with a stellar 26-point and 11-rebound performance to help his team secure victory over Chiba.

His recent maturity and strong presence on the court prowess is attributed to rigorous strength and conditioning training, under the guidance of renowned Filipino fitness coach Mel Lantin, who accompanied him to Japan for continued training.

Sotto’s last appearance with Gilas was in September during the FIBA World Classification game, where he contributed 12 points and nine rebounds in a triumphant match against China, 96-75.

June Mar Fajardo is set to join Gilas’ practice in the coming days after a brief break in his hometown of Cebu, following his instrumental role in helping San Miguel bag the PBA Commissioner’s Cup crown.

Woods struggles to find consistency in golf return

Tiger Woods of the United States plays a shot on the third hole during the first round of The Genesis Invitational at Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, California. AFP

TIGER Woods saw a lot of good, a lot of indifferent and one outright shocker of a shank on the way to a one-over par 72 on Thursday in his first US PGA Tour round in more than 10 months.

The 15-time major champion, who hadn’t played since withdrawing from the third round at the Masters last April with painful plantar fasciitis, teed it up for the first time in 2024 at the Genesis Invitational at The Riviera Country Club, where he had to work to salvage a bogey at 18 after shanking his second shot from the fairway.

“Oh, definitely, I shanked it,” said Woods, adding that back spasms that he’s subject to since spinal fusion surgery contributed.

“My back was spasming the last couple holes and it was locking up,” he said, noting it had been some time since he’d hit a shank— especially from a perfect position in the fairway.

Woods made a classic recovery,

punching another eight-iron through two trees to limit the damage and was eight shots off the early firstround lead held by Patrick Cantlay when he walked off the course.

He said his right ankle, surgically fused in April to reduce pain from the injuries he suffered in a 2021 car crash, held up as well as he expected.

“Foot’s good. Leg’s a little bit sore, things are a little bit sore, but that’s to be expected,” Woods said. “That’s nothing that we weren’t prepared for.”

Woods seemed to be walking with more ease than he did at this tournament last year and as always drew a large and rapturous gallery.

After playing what he called “soft” tune-up events at the Hero World Challenge and alongside son Charlie at the PNC Championship in December, Woods admitted to some early-round nerves and said his game lacked “sharpness.”

“A lot of good and a lot of indifferent,” he said.

“It was one or the other. I don’t know how many pars I had, wasn’t many,” added Woods, who finished the day with five birdies and six bogeys. “I was either making birdies or bogeys and just never really got anything consistent going today.

“I struggled with the speed of the greens,” said Woods, who hit eight of 14 fairways and 10 of 18 greens in regulation and needed 30 putts.

“I couldn’t believe how fast they were today even though I made a couple. I ran a bunch by the hole today, it was very stressful.”

Woods said in December that he hoped to be able to play one tournament a month this year, and he admitted Thursday that he doesn’t yet know if that schedule will materialize or whether it will give him enough competitive rounds to build the consistency he’ll need to contend.

“I’m hoping that’s the case, hoping that I play that much,” he said. AFP

7s Super League launch ushers in new era of Philippine football excitement

By Dennis Abrina THE much-anticipated inaugural 7s Super League is set to kick off on March 10, at the McKinley Stadium in Taguig City, ushering in a new era of football excitement in the Philippines.

Anton del Rosario, CEO and Founder of 7x7 Football Philippines, Ethan Lee, Executive Director of 7x7 Philippines and Melissa Henson, AIA Philippines, Chief Marketing Officer, led the launch of the league at the Mansion Sports Bar in Makati on Thursday.

Organized by 7x7 Football Philippines, this revolutionary league promises to redefine football in the country

with its unique seven-a-side format, according to Del Rosario of Team Philippine Azkals.

Embracing innovation and thrilling gameplay, the 7s Super League introduces a fast-paced and dynamic style of football.

With a compact field and smaller teams, matches are expected to be high-scoring and action-packed, delivering an exhilarating experience for fans.

Elite teams comprising top-tier football talent from various cities across Metro Manila will compete in the league’s debut season. Among the seven participating teams are the Alabang South Supers, BGC Soldiers, Pampanga Strikers, Paranaque Super Nets, Quezon

City Heroes, Siniloan GOM Blues, and Pasig City Pirates.

With a blend of local and international players, the 7s Super League adds a global dimension to the competition, offering fans exciting matchups and diverse playing styles that contribute to the rich tapestry of football in the Philippines.

Del Rosario expressed his enthusiasm for the league’s launch, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize football in the country. “This will be a game-changer for football in the Philippines,” said del Rosario. “The unique format, combined with the caliber of players involved, promises to deliver an unforgettable football experience.”

Anton del Rosario, CEO and Founder of 7x7 Football Philippines is shown with Ethan Lee, Executive Director of 7x7 Philippines and Melissa Henson, AIA Philippines, Chief Marketing Officer during the press conference of AIA 7s Super League at Mansion Sports Bar, Palanca St., Makati City on Thursday.

Dennis Abrina

PROPERTY

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024

extrastory2000@gmail.com JOEL D. LACSAMANA, Editor

Future-ready Vermosa open for business

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overing 752 hectares in Cavite, Vermosa, is hellbent on redefining suburban living. The goal: harmoniously blend residential, commercial, and retail spaces, while fostering an active lifestyle centered on overall wellness.

New developments are underway in this newest suburban project of Ayala Land. From retail shops to community centers, sports hubs and new landmark infrastructures, Vermosa is laying out future-ready homes for families, professionals, athletes, and visitors.

Retail outlets, community spaces Recently, Ayala Malls Vermosa launched a 41,000-square meter shopping center , offering retail, dining, entertainment, and other lifestyle establishments. Aiming to provide a holistic mall experience, it also opened a calisthenics center and a dog park. These all complement Vermosa campus town, the estate’s contemporary urban district known

for its refreshing landscapes, ultrawide pedestrian walkways, pocket parks with performance areas, and retail shops.

The Vermosa Transport Terminal will soon be added and connected to Ayala Malls Vermosa to make commuting convenient for residents and visitors.

Vermosa has demonstrated rapid and robust development just in the past eight years. This commitment to growth has translated into significant value appreciation, with residential lots experiencing a 70% increase in land value, and commercial lots seeing an impressive 170% value appreciation.

Strategic location Situated along Daang Hari Road in the thriving Cavite growth centers of Dasmariñas and Imus City, Vermosa offers businesses access to a diverse and rapidly expanding market. Road infrastructure is underway with the Malagasang Flyover & CALAX Imus Exit scheduled for completion in 2024. These will enhance Vermosa’s existing connectivity routes, which include the Skyway Extension-MCXDaang Hari route from Makati and the CAVITEX-Aguinaldo from Pasay.

Sustainable future Further strengthening community life in Vermosa is a 115 kV-34.5kV Meralco substation within the estate.

This will guarantee a smooth flow of electricity for Vermosa dwellers, whether residential or the commercial and industrial establishments catering to the retail, sports and leisure and office. The Philippine Red Cross Cavite Chapter’s primary headquarters in Vermosa will soon be in place and serve as the main blood center in Cavite.

Sports hub Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub (AVSH), was recently recognized for housing the only football pitch in the country with a valid FIFA certification. This certification not only signifies compliance with international standards but also opens doors to hosting prestigious

international tournaments.

Envisioned as a one-stop shop for athletes, AVSH recently opened the athlete’s house, which This 2-storey, 30-bedroom accommodation hub is complete with 24/7 WiFi access and fully airconditioned units, smart television, 24/7 security and CCTV cameras, roof deck bar, athletes’ lounge, accredited nutritional meal plan providers, and free use of the gym, pool, and track oval.

Vermosa stands as a model for integrated communities driving economic growth, fostering a sense of belonging, and contributing to a sustainable future.

For more information, visit https:// www.vermosa.ph/.

Sprucing up the C-5 Ortigas corridor

High rise living in Alabang LUXURY real estate brand Filigree recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for 1001 Parkway Residences. Present during the groundbreaking ceremony were Filinvest Alabang Inc. president & COO Catherine Ilagan, senior vice president for residentials & estates Daphne Sanchez, Share Pro Inc. supply chain management head Andrew Gotianun III, Filinvest Land Inc. chief technical planning officer Winnie Lim, Share Pro Inc. president Cherie Fernandez, and PRSP president Jun Rodriguez.

Once completed, 1001 Parkway Residences will be the tallest residential tower in Alabang – an architectural statement that will stand out amidst Filinvest City’s skyline and expansive park system.

Completing a healthy living experience at 1001 Parkway Residences is its location in Filinvest City, the country’s first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold-certified central business district. To know more, visit https://filigree. com.ph/properties/1001-parkway/.

DMCI Homes and Japanese conglomerate, Marubeni Corporation, recently unveiled the Valeron Tower, a residential condominium development along the thriving C-5 Ortigas corridor in Pasig City.

The project integrates elegance, accessibility, and value for money along C-5 in Pasig City, presenting an upscale private residence in a high-growth area close to major business centers in Metro Manila. It will soon rise along C-5 corner P.E. Antonio Street in Pasig, making it hard to miss for motorists plying

the major thoroughfare.

The condominium tower features a number of al-fresco commercial establishments on its ground floor, while SM Center Pasig and Tiendesitas are only a few meters away.

The Valeron Tower is competitively priced, starting from P7.62 million. Residential units will be available at the property, with spacious cuts ranging from studio, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom units ranging from 32.5 square meters to 91 sq.m..

Drawing a bead on a promising market

GATEWAY TO CITY LIVING. Citadines Roces Quezon City recently opened its doors, painting a new urban lifestyle experience in the heart of the city. Guests were greeted with fun activities, a tour of the property, and cuisine from Citadines Roces Quezon City’s in-house modern Filipino restaurant, Alejo. The property offers 185 well-appointed apartments, with six main room categories: Studio Deluxe, Studio Executive, One Bedroom Deluxe, One Bedroom Executive, One Bedroom Premier, Two Bedroom Premier, and Three Bedroom Premier. Alejo fuses traditional tribal aesthetics and contemporary design elements. With the goal of showcasing the rich tapestry of the Philippine cultural heritage, the restaurant achieves a captivating ambiance that warmly welcomes guests while celebrating the vibrant spirit of the Quezon City community. At the opening were: Ascott country mManager, Philip Barnes; Citadines Roces QC assistant residence manager, Thea Peregrino; general manager of JG Jinmen Leisures Corp., David Ng Lim; Matriarch of the Lim Family, Ng Gyok Oh Lim; head of local economic investment and promotions office, Jay Gatmaitan; and Regional director Department of Tourism - NCR, Sharlene Batin.

VISTA Land, a developer of top-tier high rise properties, is contributing to Manila’s reputation as a hotspot for lucrative real estate deals.

Among these are Plumeria Heights, Kizuna Heights, and Vista GL Taft on Taft Avenue; Bradbury Heights in Sta. Cruz; Sky Arts Manila in Malate; Vista Recto on Recto Avenue; and Tennyson Heights in Quiapo.

These condo towers stand out not only for their sleek, modern architectural designs but also for their proximity to universities and colleges in the Manila area.

They likewise presents an opportunity for investors to tap their high rental income potential, given that there will always be a strong demand for housing from students, faculty members, and other stakeholders in the education sector.

Vista’s condos likewise tout access to Manila’s diverse commercial and business centers

that include Divisoria, the bustling bargain hunters’ such as; Manila’s Chinatown, a haven for foodies; and the lively dining and bar-hopping district of Ermita. Shown here is the Sky Arts Manila nestled in the bustling Malate area.

AGRICULTURE

C3 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024

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

A doser is used with the greenhouse irrigation network to inject fertilizers in precise amounts directly into the soil of each plant container Staff at the model farm in Tarlac

that can significantly damage a crop.

“When it comes to pests, we don’t spray right away,” Jessica says. “We have to find out what kind of insects should be killed... For example, there are two different types of fruit fly melon fruit fly and mango fruit fly.

It’s the melon fruit fly that attacks vegetables like ampalaya and patola.”

In meetings with the TTM every Saturday, farmers learn ways to cut the pathogen life cycle, how to treat the soil, and how to make their own seedlings that are compatible with their crop calendar.

In its first year, the TTM worked with 30 pioneer farmers in two clusters and provided seedlings to 40 other beneficiaries, Peng says. In its first three-year project that will last until City.

2025, it aims to help 45 The Taiwan Technical pioneer farmers in three Mission (TTM) clusters so that they can see demonstration farm, a 20 percent increase in their inaugurated in December average income.

2023, is home to several But training doesn’t end buildings, including two in the Philippines. Last fully automated, climateyear, the TTM sent seven controlled greenhouses, delegates—including the each covering 604 square Bernardinos and another meters, that can withstand member of their association, a category 5 storm; a Marilou Encinares--to post-harvest building Taiwan to learn more about where composting is the business of farming. done; a warehouse for “Tayo ang mga sosyal na cultivators, harvesters, farmers, nakapunta sa ibang Marlene Bernardino, president of the Tabon San Jose Farmers compost shredders and bansa (We’re the privileged Association, talks about the techniques she and other farmers other farm equipment; farmers who get to visit have learned from the TTM and staff housing for the another country),” Encinares three agricultural experts quips. from Taiwan who live on the premises, Looking to the future and work with a team of about 20 locals.

The planting calendar also considers One of the greenhouses is dedicated when it is most profitable to plant a to producing seedlings that can be particular vegetable. quickly distributed after a natural “Planting off-season can get you a disaster so farmers can recover quickly. good price,” Peng says as he walks “The key to sustainability is profit,” through an aisle of cherry tomatoes says Y.C. Peng, project coordinator growing on the vine, next to several rows at the farm, who says their priority is of bell peppers and regular tomatoes in to help farmers improve their income the farm’s second greenhouse. Outside by reducing the amount of chemicals the greenhouse are multiple rows of needed, rotating crops to improve soil okra, green and red. health, and planting vegetables that are Marlene notes that intercropping, off-season to get a better price. “In costs, the cultivation of two or more crops yield, and price, we want to help.” simultaneously on the same field— Taiwan fully funds the farm another practice the TTM encouraged— through the International Cooperation has been very profitable.

Development Fund (ICDF) and “When the price of one crop is down, operates in coordination with the the other crop can make up for the Department of Agriculture (DA), in line losses, and you maximize the use of the Y.C. Peng, an agricultural specialist with its Farm and Fisheries Clustering land,” she says. and project coordinator at the farm, and Consolidation (F2C2) program.

In this season, the Bernardinos say, demonstrates how cherry tomatoes The demo farm in Tarlac is the 21st the association’s three-hectare farm can be picked at one of the farm’s set up globally by Taiwan and the third grows ampalaya, pechay, mustasa, upo, two greenhouses in Southeast Asia, after Indonesia and okra, and patola.

Thailand. By Peng’s reckoning, Taiwan In the past, Jessica adds, farmers of the planting bed, and when to adjust has already invested about P60 million would mostly plant vegetables that the waterway.” in the farm. were quick to grow, like pechay and AWS, short for automated weather The TTM works with farmermustasa. These were easy to maintain station, consists of sensors for air beneficiaries such as Bernardino, whom and could be sold for cash in 15 to 20 temperature, humidity, illumination, the DA nominates. days. wind speed and direction, soil For some farmers, the partnership Today, with assistance from the temperature, soil humidity, and has already paid off.

TTM, some members are also growing conductivity. Powered by a solar panel, “Our production has increased,” says various vegetables, including those that the AWS automatically records data Jessica Bernardino, Marlene’s daughter, grow on the vine, like ampalaya and and uploads it through the internet. speaking in Filipino. sitaw, especially when the price is high.

The three-hectare Tabon farm, which “For example, for ampalaya, the The focus on profits helps with the TTM uses as its main training site, average is about eight to 10 tons per another phenomenon—the tendency needs only one AWS. hectare, but in our area, it has reached among some of the younger generations “Digitalization will really enhance 15 tons per hectare.” to move away from farming. agriculture in the next generation,” “When it comes to income, some “In our area, it’s not such a problem Peng says. “Although AWS is farmers have already been able to to encourage young people to farm,” important, it is only the hardware part. repair their house, buy equipment, says Jessica, 35. “They are interested in The farmers’ mindset and the capability and supplement their budget for daily farming because they can see that there to use digital tools will be the key. That expenses,” she adds. is money in farming. I hope this will is the software.”

The planting calendar is key not be lost and will carry on to the next Another area where farmers get help A key to more efficient production generation.” is identifying and dealing with pests

Taiwan experts show farmers how to grow their yield, income

By Chin Wong Associate Editor

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HERE is a quiet revolution in Central Luzon.

But unlike uprisings of the past, this one is peaceful and led by farmers armed with digital technology, relevant information, and the belief that agriculture is the path to wealth.

“You only need doctors when you’re sick and lawyers when you have a court case, but you need farmers three times every day—for breakfast, lunch, and dinner,” says Marlene Bernadino, 56, the president of the Tabon San Jose Farmers Association, which has about 60 members in Pampanga province.

Part of her optimism comes from the techniques and technologies she and other farmers have learned from a model farm set up by Taiwanese experts in horticulture on five hectares in Barangay Sapang Maragul, Tarlac

Tilapia harvest at Pantabangan Park boosts Luzon fish production

The DA believes supporting the NDA and local dairy farmers can help boost production and solve malnutrition

THE DA-BFAR Regional Fisheries Office III harvested over 400 kilos of tilapia from three of the 12 High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) fish cages located in the Pantabangan Aquaculture Park in the province of Nueva Ecija.

Initiated in 2022, the park utilizes the Pantabangan reservoir for research to enhance freshwater aquaculture species production, particularly Tilapia, and uplift the livelihoods of underprivileged fisherfolk and isolated fishing communities in Nueva Ecija.

“Anticipated to amplify local fish production, the Pantabangan Aquaculture Park is poised to benefit not only the province but

the entire Central Luzon region,” said Regional Director Wilfredo Cruz, who led the harvesting this morning.

Furthermore, according to Mr. Joseph Bitara, Pantabangan Aquapark Project Focal Person, the HDPE material exhibits superior efficiency and longevity compared to alternatives like bamboo and GI pipe.

The DA-BFAR III, with the National Irrigation Administration and the Protected Area Development, will study the production data to assess harvest quality and ensure the continuous development and expansion of the park.

is a planting or crop calendar that tells farmers what cultivation activities to do and when, based on several factors, including a 10-day weather forecast.

Peng emphasizes that farmers should be able to do digital recording with a basic online tool so that all cultivation activities and sales data are traceable.

“Older farmers can ask their children to use these tools and this can link the generations,” he adds. “Children will better appreciate what their parents do.”

For farmers, the swings in the climate are a major problem, Jessica says.

“The AWS from Taiwan is very helpful and allows us to monitor the weather, soil moisture, and wind strength in our area,” she says. Through monitoring, we know when we should fertilize, irrigate, and spray, the height

The park utilizes the Pantabangan reservoir for research to enhance freshwater aquaculture species production The TTM Tarlac farm features two typhoon-resistant, automated greenhouse

TECH

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024

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

A

NEW survey, commissioned by Kaspersky of 21,000 people worldwide, reveals shocking data about the extent of digital abuse.

A third (34%) of respondents believe that Googling/checking social media accounts of a person you had started dating as a form of due diligence is acceptable and 41% admitted to doing so when they started dating someone Almost a quarter of respondents (23%) had experienced some form of online stalking from a person they were newly dating.

Over 90% of respondents are willing to share passwords that could potentially allow their location to be accessed According to the study – which interviewed 1,000 people in 21 countries around the world – online daters are keen to take steps to protect themselves in the quest for love.

However, despite almost a quarter of respondents (23%) saying they had experienced some form of online stalking from a person they were newly dating, people are still vulnerable to an alarming rise in stalking and abuse on Valentine’s day from risks posed by location settings, data privacy and more broadly, oversharing.

The types of abuse are varied, with well over a third (39%) of respondents having reported some form of violence or abuse from a current or previous partner: 16% of respondents had been sent unwanted emails or messages and perhaps most concerningly, 13% had been filmed or photographed without their consent. A further 10% admitted they had had their location tracked, 10% that their social media accounts or emails had been hacked, and worryingly, 7% having had stalkerware installed on their devices without their consent.

Nearly a quarter of daters experience digital stalking

Online daters are keen to take steps to protect themselves in the quest for love.

Proportionally more female respondents had experienced some form of violence or abuse compared to male respondents (42% versus 36%). Concerningly, more of those currently dating had experienced violence or abuse compared to those in a long-term relationship (48% versus 37%). In fact, 34% of respondents said they worried about the prospect of being stalked online, and female respondents being slightly more concerned at the prospect than males (36% were worried compared to 31% of male respondents).

The picture differs globally too, with more of those experiencing some form of online stalking being from parts of South and Central America and Asia - 42% of respondents in India reported some form of online stalking, as did 38% in Mexico and 36% in Argentina.

“The Internet of things, or connected world is brilliant and offers a myriad of possibilities. But with opportunity comes threats and one of those threats of a connected world is the ease of access to traceable data which leaves us vulnerable

to abuse”, commented David Emm, Principal Security Researcher at Kaspersky.

“Whilst the blame for these horrific behaviors never lies with stalking victims, unfortunately there is still a burden upon them to take steps to minimize risks.

I think it’s great that people are taking steps to verify identities online, but would encourage people to just stop and do a quick sense check on any information, passwords or data they share, to just think through how that information could be used in nefarious hands.”

SSS accelerates digital transformation with MYEG pact THE Social Security System (SSS) and MYEG Philippines, Inc. (MYEG PH) have entered a groundbreaking partnership to enhance the payment experience for SSS members.

The memorandum of agreement was officially signed by Rizaldy Capulong, Executive Vice President of SSS for Investment Sector, Guillermo Urbano Jr., Vice President of SSS for Treasury Division, and Ann Saldaña, Chief Executive Officer of MYEG Philippines, Inc. MYEG PH, a leading provider of electronic solutions specializing in government services online automation, has been a trusted name in both Malaysia and the Philippines for over two decades. Leveraging its cutting-edge technology platform, MYEG PH simplifies and automates various government services through the integration of internet, automation, big data, and electronic payments.

With this strategic collaboration, SSS members will be able to enjoy a hassle-free and efficient online payment of loans and contributions through www. myeg.ph. The platform offers a plethora of payment options, including E-Wallets (GCash, Maya, GrabPay, and ShopeePay); Credit/Debit Cards (Mastercard, Visa, JCB), Bank Transfers from trusted banks like BDO, BPI, RCBC, Unionbank, Maybank, and Metrobank, and even cash payments via nationwide over-the-counter (OTC) channels like Cebuana Lhuillier, Palawan Express, Bayad Center, 7-11, ECPay, Tambunting Pawnshop, RD Pawnshop, DA5, Posible, USSC, i2i, plus 90,000 more.

Additionally, members will be able to effortlessly generate their Payment Reference Number (PRN) on the same platform, streamlining the payment process. By providing the necessary details, users can generate a PRN instantly and proceed with their payments seamlessly.

Shown here are (from left) SSS Executive Vice President for Investment Sector Rizaldy Capulong, SSS Executive Vice President for Branch Operations Sector Atty. Voltaire Agas, SSS President & Chief Executive Officer Rolando Ledesma Macasaet, MYEG PH Chief Executive Officer Ann Margaret Saldaña, MYEG PH E-Gov Operations Manager Israelita Choa, and MYEG PH IT Business Project Manager Elmer Dequilla.

This collaboration with MYEG PH is integral to SSS’s ongoing digitalization efforts, signifying a crucial stride toward comprehensive digital transformation. By leveraging MYEG’s expertise, the aim is to streamline payment processes, fostering the overall digital enhancement of SSS services. The objective is to offer members a seamless and modernized experience, in line with the commitment to embrace digital innovation for the welfare of the Filipino people.

The strategic partnership between SSS and MYEG PH underscores the agency’s dedication to modernizing and improving services. The incorporation of MYEG’s innovative solutions not only simplifies financial transactions but also enhances overall efficiency. This collaborative effort aligns with the mission of providing secure and accessible financial services for the benefit of SSS members, marking a significant milestone in the pursuit of excellence.

Enstack boosts entrepreneurship with AI-powered ‘Magic’ update sharing, “Many aspiring entrepreneurs ENSTACK, the AI-powered mobile app are deterred by the daunting complexities that enables everyone to be entrepreneurs in setting up a business. Enstack Magic proudly announces Enstack Magic, an uses AI to streamline this process, removArtificial Intelligence-powered enhanceing financial, time, and technical barriers ment to its store builder and business and enabling entrepreneurs to fully realmanagement app. ize their potential. True to our name, EnWith Enstack Magic, setting up an onstack is an end-to-end platform that simline store will be easier than ever with feaplifies online business management and tures engineered to eliminate the barriers enables entrepreneurship, ensuring imaghindering entrepreneurs and businesses ination is the only limit to starting a from launching and scaling their online business. This is a pivotal moment operations. for Enstack and for every entrepreSince its launch in 2022, Enstack has neur we serve.” Castillo’s statement amassed over 100,000 users who have highlights the company’s commitharnessed the app’s powerful features to ment to revolutionizing support for streamline their business setup. Whether the entrepreneurial community. they’re a cult skincare brand or a bed & The major update brings a breakfast in Siargao, Enstack users found suite of powerful features to the that with just three simple steps, they Enstack CEO Macy Castillo emphasizes the transformative Enstack app: could dream bigger, build smarter, and impact of AI in entrepreneurship. ● Generative Image AI: Enables live richer lives. users to create distinctive logos and elAs Enstack magic continues to roll out in build something of their own.

2024, even more aspiring entrepreneurs will be emAnd with the introduction of Enstack Magic, the evate product images, setting their branding powered to kick start their journey. company is taking a significant leap forward, lever- apart in the digital marketplace. ● Generative Text Capabilities: Automates With the prevalence of AI and the landscape of aging AI technology to help users redefine business entrepreneurship rapidly changing, Enstack re- operations, marketing, and overall management in the creation of engaging shop and product descriptions, allowing entrepreneurs to quickly mains dedicated to delivering cutting-edge business today’s digital economy. tools infused with AI capabilities that serve users Enstack CEO Macy Castillo emphasizes the launch and update their online stores as well who want to take control of their working lives and transformative impact of AI in entrepreneurship, as optimize search engine discoverability.

“Navigating online dating and virtual spaces can be challenging and it’s crucial for social media and dating apps to implement verification processes, which can help confirm that users’ profiles match their actual photos.

To my knowledge, Bumble is the only dating app currently using this level of verification. I would love to see others adopting similar safety measures. Additionally, safety guides and resources should be readily accessible online in multiple languages, ensuring that vulnerable individuals have the necessary support without needing to register for an app”, commented Emma Pickering, Head of Technology-Facilitated Abuse and Economic Empowerment, Refuge.

“The UK’s Online Safety Act sets a precedent by regulating platforms to protect users. Given the pervasive nature of stalking and technology-facilitated abuse, we advise individuals to secure their online presence, including passwords and accounts. Those with concerns should contact local authorities or support services. In the UK, the National Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0808 2000 247 offers assistance” she added.

Kaspersky has created some top tips for staying safe while dating online below, for more details, please take a look at our safe dating guide or for further ways to stay safe from Stalkerware, please visit https://stopstalkerware.org/resources/

‘Ka-pandas’ spark community love at Silang Fiesta FOODPANDA logistics delivery partners from Silang, Cavite displayed an inspiring image of camaraderie as they joined a motorcade to help promote local foodpanda vendors during the town’s fiesta celebration.

Led by Ka-panda Rhy Reyes, the delivery partners joined the colorful festivities and reached out to partner vendors to adorn their motorcycles with the stores’ posters.

“Kinausap namin yung mga partner vendors na kung pwedeng mag-sabit ng tarpaulin ng tindahan nila sa mga motor namin para mas maraming Silangueños pa ang mag-order sa kanila at sa foodpanda,”Reyes said.

Every year, the fiesta of Silang celebrates the feast of Our Lady of Candelaria with a grand parade, street dancing, and various festivities. It’s also renowned for the strong solidarity among the townspeople, a spirit echoed

by Ka-pandas through their close bond with local partner vendors.

“Maganda talaga ang samahan ng mga Ka-panda at partner vendors dito sa Silang. Mayroon din kaming group chat kasama sila para mas madaling ayusin ang mga concerns sa mga orders.”

Reyes emphasized the significance of such relationships, highlighting their positive impact on customer service for those using the app. “Lahat naman po kami dito ay nagha-hanapbuhay. Mas mapapadali kung maganda ang samahan at nagtutulungan kasi makikita yan ng mga customers na maganda ang serbisyo.”

He also added that Silang Mayor Kevin Amutan Anarna also supported their participation in the fiesta celebration. “Supportive talaga si Mayor sa aming mga delivery partners kaya natuwa rin sya na andun kami para sa motorcade.”

Ron Sanders, Rider Experience Lead of foodpanda logistics Philippines, praised the Ka-pandas in Silang, Cavite, for their great idea. “We appreciate their enthusiasm in organizing the motorcade to promote local partner vendors. It’s truly inspiring to witness our Ka-pandas and foodpanda partner vendors working together harmoniously.”

“We’re thankful for their ongoing service to the community, and we’re looking forward to continuing this journey together,” Sanders concluded.

‘Ka-pandas’ take a group photo with Silang, Cavite Mayor Kevin Amutan Anarna