Manila Standard - 2024 February 23 - Friday

By Vito Barcelo

‘1987 Constitution silent on Cha-cha voting mode’

Senate sees end of RBH talk in Oct., 7 months after House

By Maricel V. Cruz and Macon Ramos-Araneta

HOUSE leaders reminded senators that the 1987 Constitution is silent on whether Congress should vote separately or as one on proposed Charter amendments.

Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr. and Deputy Majority Leader and Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre cautioned the Senate, which said it will finish deliberations in October or seven months after the selfimposed deadline of the House in April, against insisting on a separate vote.

“Our basic law does not say whether the House of Representatives and the Senate have to vote jointly or separately on Charter change,” Gonzales said.

“Voting separately–that provision is being added by the Senate to our Constitution. For us in the House of Representatives, we stand with what's written in the Constitution,” Acidre said.

The two lawmakers were reacting to Senator Jinggoy Estrada's concerns regarding the Lower Chamber's Resolution of Both Houses No. 7 that requires all members of Congress to vote jointly on proposed economic amendments to the 1987 Constitution.

By Vince Lopez and Macon Ramos-Araneta

THE Philippine National Police has not monitored any death threat against Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, who claimed so in an audio recording he released Wednesday.

"Right now, except for his (Quiboloy’s) pronouncement, the PNP has not received any information with respect to the threat against his life," police spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said in a press conference on Thursday.

Fajardo said that if Quiboloy has "basis for his claim," the PNP can provide him security upon request.

"Whether it is a government official or an ordinary citizen who receives a threat to his life, the PNP is always ready to provide appropriate security if there is a request for one," the PNP official said.

A HOUSE leader yesterday raised concerns over the realignment of some P13-billion allocation of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) last year to other social amelioration programs that deprived nearly 900,000 families, or 4.3 million Filipinos, of aid. Deputy Speaker and Quezon Rep. David Suarez said that with Senator Imee Marcos admitting that she slashed the budget of the 4Ps programintended for the poorest of the poor, previous realignments initiatedby the senator should be reviewed in view of the millions of affected beneficiaries.

“The bigger question is how many millions of Filipinos and households were affected because of her realignment? And it appears this did not happen in 2023 alone,” he said.

Marcos grants a selfie with members of

and Honolulu City Council delegation, organized by

of Commerce of Hawaii and Hawaii Philippines

in their courtesy call on Thursday at Malacanang. PPA Photo

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2024

‘Grand opportunities’ for PH, Hawaii

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Marcos on Thursday said he sees many grand opportunities in boosting the Philippines' ties with Hawaii in terms of investments and trade.

The President welcomed members of the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Honolulu and Honolulu City Council Trade Mission during their courtesy call at Malacañan Palace.

"I think I see many grand opportunities and I thank you for coming, and to explore those opportunities and try to make them into a reality for the betterment of both Hawaii and your partners here in the

‘1987...

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Gonzales said Section 1, Article XVll (Amendments and Revisions) of the Charter states: “Any amendment to, or revision, of the Constitution may be proposed by: 1) The Congress, upon a vote of three-fourths of all its members…”

RBH No. 7 is almost an exact reproduction of RBH No. 6, introduced in the Upper Chamber by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and Senators Loren Legarda and Juan Edgardo Angara.

The proposed House and Senate changes are on the grant of legislative franchises to and ownership of public utilities in Article Xll, and ownership of basic educational facilities in Article XlV

Sokor...

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Meanwhile, Comelec spokesperson

John Rex Laudiangco reported that the bidding for the Online Voting and Counting System for overseas votinghas been declared a failure after the two bidders for it were declared ineligible.

The Comelec en banc decided to adopt the recommendation of the seven-member Special Bids and Awards Committee and the findings of the technical working

Solon...

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Marcos, in a statement, admitted to recommending some P8 billion in 4Ps funding be realigned to other DSWD programs such as the supplemental feeding, KALAHI-CIDSS, Quick Response Fund for disasters, and AICS during the deliberations of the 2023 national budget.

“The P5-billion AICS reduction, on the other hand, occurred after I had recommended the amount in the Senate version, but the bicameral removed it for lack of fiscal space post-COVID. Those two amounts–P8 billion plus P5 billion—are perhaps what some befuddled members are referring to,” she said.

But Suarez argued the 4Ps program is not just some government aid project that lawmakers can tinker with as it is based on a law, Republic Act No. 11310 or the 4Ps Act.

‘Pinoy...

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He said the condition of their captors is “political” in nature, which is for the war in Gaza to end.

To compensate the crew managing the vessel in Iran, the concerned manning agency doubled their salary.

The first Filipino who was freed, De Vega said, did not take the double pay offer.

The official, on the other hand, noted that at least 10 are expected to return soon as their contracts will expire in about a month.

Cristy...

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Jalosjos and Suntay gave an interview on YouTube to deny they were the alleged “benefactors” of actor and model Dominic Roque following the latter's breakup with top actress Bea Alonzo.

"It is very clear that we did not say that Mr. Bong Suntay is a benefactor of Dominic Roque. We are not saying that he had a gas station because of special treatment," Fermin said in the vernacular.

“I will not ask for forgiveness because I did not say that Dominic Roque lives in a condo unit owned by a gay politician. I did not mention anything like that. I will not allow myself to be pushed against the wall

Philippines," Mr. Marcos told his guests.

The President also thanked the Filipino-Hawaiian community, citing hisfamily's experience in the US island state, which took them in after they fled the country in 1986.

Addressing the members of the Honolulu City Council delegation as well as participants of the 31st Trade Mission of the Filipino Chamber ofCommerce of Hawaii

and advertising firms in Article XVl.

The suggested principal amendments are the insertion of the phrase, “unless otherwise provided by law,” which would empower Congress to lift or relax present economic restrictions in the nation’s basic law, and the addition of the qualifier “basic” in Article XlV. Gonzales said while their resolution is almost a word-for-word reproduction of RBH No. 6, they dropped the phrase “each House voting separately.”

“Those four words are not in the Constitution. Our colleagues in the Senate cannot and should not insist on that language. I am not a lawyer, but that is unconstitutional, as lawyers would say. We in the House chose to be true to our basic law by quoting exactly what it says, no more, no less,” he said.

group regarding the lone bidder in the FASTrAC project, the poll chief said.

“Yesterday, the joint venture of Miru et al., a South Korean firm, conducted an end-to-end technology demonstration of FASTrAC before the members of the en banc and other stakeholders at the main office in Intramuros, Manila,” he said.

“These machines were customized in accordance with the terms of reference (TOR), which the Commission came up with as early as last year. These are not the machines adjusted by the Comelec. They adjusted based on the requirements indi-

“Let's not forget that 4Ps is a law. It’s not just a regular program, it’s not just a project that comes and goes. It’s a law. It has specific beneficiaries. It has specific objectives and therefore the funding has to be secured to support the intent of the program,” he said.

“Now of course, with this revelation that we found out a few days ago, I think it is incumbent upon the House to find out how this affected the program and how many millions of Filipinos and households were affected,” Suarez added.

For his part, Deputy Majority Leader and Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre said Marcos should be accountable to her constituents for the 4Ps budget cut.

“I don't think the accountability of Senator Marcos is simply by admitting that she was the one who removed that from the budget during the bicam. I think her accountability to her constituents is to also explain to them where the money went,” Acidre said. Maricel V. Cruz

“Once their contracts end, they can go home and we will make sure they will have a substitute but we will ask the agency not to put Filipinos,” he said.

“The Iranian authorities will allow them all to leave once the replacements arrive,” he added. ST Nikolas will remain in Iran’s custody until its court decides what it will do with it, De Vega said.

Yemen’s Houthi rebels were earlier quoted as saying that they hijacked the vessel over its connection to Israel and that “all ships belonging to the Israeli enemy or that deal with it will become legitimate targets”.

The hijacking occurred on Nov. 19. Rey Requejo

without a fight.” “My heart and conscience are clear that I did not hurt anyone, there was no malice in my words, and especially no defamation,” she added. Jalosjos, in the YouTube interview, admitted he owns the condo unit the actor has been renting for three years now “at a good price.”

Suntay, for his part, denied allegations that he gave Roque a gasoline station, saying the actor was hired as a “celebrity driver” and eventually brand ambassador of Clean Fuel.

Meanwhile, veteran showbiz columnist and talent manager Lolit Solis advised those meddling in the Roque-Alonzo split to stop spreading false information.

Nickie Wang

and Hawaii Philippines Business Economic Council, the President said he is forever grateful to those who helped his family.

He applauded their exploration in beefing up the economic and trade ties between the two nations.

"I think there is a great deal of potential there, as there are so many similarities in terms of what are needed and what needs to be done in terms of the state of Hawaii and the Philippines and in specific areas of the Philippines," the President said.

Amid threats from global challenges to the nation's economy, Mr. Marcos assured his audience the situation has changed, citing the need to turn all opportunities into reality.

"I mean, all of these, the supply chain

As this developed, Angara said the Senate is looking at a possible October deadline to finish hearings on RBH No. 6.

The new deadline is seven months after the March timeline originally set by senators themselves.

The House Committee of the Whole, on the other hand, will start discussions on RBH No. 7 next week and may finish after three hearings or before Congress goes on Holy Week break next month.

Angara said to save public funds and since the Constitution gives a 60 to 90 day timetable for the plebiscite, it should be “ideally conducted along with the 2025 elections.”

However, the Commission on Elections earlier said it cannot hold a plebiscite next year to amend the 1987 Constitution given that there are already two

cated in the terms of reference,” Garcia said.

In separate notices, the Comelec said the application of Indra Soluciones Technologias de la Information SLU was disqualified after it submitted a non-compliant net financial contracting capacity (NFCC). Indra also failed to submit the credentials of its third-party certifier, the certification of the final version of its system, and was found to have an incomplete change management plan.

The company also failed to complete its submission of standards ofaudit, had a non-compliant brochure for printers for

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However, both the House of Representatives and the Senate have issued subpoenas against the founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ church, who must attend one on March 12 or face arrest.

Quiboloy went into hiding after claiming that the US government, allegedly with help from Philippine government officials, was plotting to “eliminate” him through rendition in connection with the cases he is facing in the US.

In a 37-minute audio recording uploaded in the YouTube channel of his TV network, Quiboloy on Wednesday accused the US Federal Bureau of Investigation of raising a $2 million bounty for his arrest and two associates in the US wanted for alleged sex trafficking and other cases.

The FBI, who has placed Quiboloy in its most wanted list, denied raising the bounty.

DOJ...

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“These orders direct all BI officers to promptly report any information regarding Teves’ entry, exit, or attempted entry/exit tothe Philippine National Police (PNP) or the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI),” Remulla said. BI officers were also instructed

Stick...

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Lawyers, the SC said, are expected to be "honorable and reliable at all times," upholding their oath as members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP). The lawyer's actions, the court said, violated the fundamental ethical canons expected of

Drip...

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In a now deleted Instagram post, the actress wrote: “Drip anywhere is our motto! Hehehe.” "I was going to be late so I had it done in my husband's office hehe I never miss a drip because it really helps in soooo many ways.”

Social media users were quick to screen-

problems that we’ve been encountering around the world, those are the problems that we have tried to remedy and to alleviate. and I think that we have succeeded to an extent, we will continue to work in that direction because again trade is important to us," the President stressed.

In closing, Mr. Marcos thanked his visitors, noting Hawaii's special place in his heart, especially the people who showed kindness to his family.

"The kindness that we were shown again in difficult circumstances is something that we will be forever grateful for and that we will never forget and therefore you have your number one supporter here in the Philippines," the President said.

scheduled polls in 2025.

“You cannot squeeze in a plebiscite in the middle of an election. Even prior to 2025, you cannot do that... And we cannot divert any of the funds in the possession of Comelec. That is contained in the General Appropriation Act,” Comelec chairman George Garcia said.

The poll body, he said, is preparing for the May 2025 midterm elections and the December 2025 barangay elections.

Efforts to amend the Charter through a people's initiative,constitutional convention, or a constituent assembly would culminate in a plebiscite.

Garcia, however, cited a Supreme Court ruling, which states that the Comelec "cannot include a plebiscite for the amendment of the constitution on a regular election."

auto-volt switching, and did not submit a demo unit version of the solution being offered in a CD or USB flash drive. During the first round of bidding in December, the Comelec declared a failure because Miru was unable to fully comply with the documentary requirements.

During the second round of bidding in January, Miru overcame such deficiencies and passed the eligibility check.

The company offered to do the election project for P17.988 billion, and the Comelec subsequently recognized it as the “single, calculated bid.”

The US Embassy in the Philippines, on the other hand, expressed confidence that Quiboloy will “face justice for his heinous crimes.”

The 73-year-old religious leader had been summoned to appear in hearings being conducted by both the Senate and House over the same sexual abuse allegations. Senator Risa Hontiveros, who heads the Senate committee investigating the allegations against Quiboloy, said the religious leader should first appear before the Senate before he “attempts to ask for this and that” arrangements.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian also said Quiboloy should respect the subpoena issued by the Senate after the pastor snubbed previous invitations.

“It’s important that he respects the process. In past cases, if one goes into hiding, you’re automatically guilty. Flight means guilt," he said.

“What’s important, not just for Pastor Quiboloy, is for him to come and explain his side and defend himself against these accusations,” Gatchalian added.

to refer Teves to the PNP or NBI whenever encountered at any port of entry. According to Remulla, the issuances reflect the DOJ’s commitment to cooperating with international law enforcement agencies to ensure Teves will face the legal consequences of his alleged actions. “Teves cannot escape the long arm of the law,” the Justice Secretary stressed.

legal professionals and constituted "grossly immoral conduct." The disbarment stemmed from a complaint filed by the lawyer's wife in 2016, who said her husband abandoned her and their child, lived with another woman, and even posted their relationship on social media.

The lawyer eventually married his concubine in 2015. Rey Requejo

shot the post before the actress took it down.

On Reddit, users described the act as “inappropriate and disrespectful in so many ways.”

One user wrote: “She shouldn't have done that in the first place... the fact that she’s flaunting her privileges when that office is being lent to her husband in order to SERVE his constituents, esp. the disadvantaged ones.”

Another wrote: “Aaand this is where our taxpayer money goes to ladies and gentlemen.”

Murad confident MILF party to win BARMM elections

BANGSAMORO Autonomous Region Chief Minister Murad Ebrahim expressed confidence the candidates of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s political party will “most likely win” in parliamentary elections in 2025.

“For the last three years, we tried our best to strengthen the political party. Just last week, we have the first general assemblyand the turnout of the supporters of the party was very high,” Ebrahim said at a forum held Thursday by the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP).

The former rebel group’s United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) fielded candidates in less than half of the contested seats in Cotabato City and the provinces of Maguindanao and Basilan, and even fewer in Tawi-tawi and Lanao del Sur in the first elections held in the newly-formed Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao in 2022.

It won, however, the mayoralty in Cotabato City, then the seat of the autonomous region, which is composed of five provinces, two cities and several communities. The MILF holds a 41-seat majority in the 80-member BARMM transitory parliament.

“In the past, we have not organized many of our branches in the provinces. Now we are fully organized and we are quite confident that our candidates for parliament in 2025 will most likely win,” said Murad in an online interview.

Virgilio Galvez

IN BRIEF

15-year sentence for OFW killer upheld

THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Thursday said the Kuwait Appeal Court has upheld the guilty verdict and sentence on the killer of Jullebee Ranara. The charred body of Ranara, married with four children, was found in a desert in the Gulf State on Jan. 21, 2023. An autopsy report showed Ranara was pregnant at the time of her death.

Last September, the killer, the minor son of the victim's employer, was sentenced to 15-year imprisonment for murder and 1-year jail time for driving without a license.

Kabayan Rep. Ron Salo, chair of the House committee on overseas workers affairs, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the DMW,Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and the Embassy Officials, including the Ambassador and Labor Attache in Kuwait, for their unwavering dedication in seeking justice and accountability for Julebee’s case.

Vito Barcelo and Maricel Cruz

SWS poll: Pinoys fret over climate change

AT LEAST 87 percent of adult Filipinos believe they had “personally experienced” the effects of climate change for the past three years, according to the latest survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations (SWS).

The SWS study found 19 percent of respondents said they have experienced severe impact of climate change, 43 percent felt it at moderate level, 24 percent noted little effect, while 13 percent are not affected by climate change at all.

The research firm also reported that 88 percent of Filipinos believe that climate change poses a serious threat to their physical health, 47 percent find it very dangerous, 42 percent said it is somewhat dangerous, and only 12 percent said it is not that dangerous. Respondents also said climate change is not good for their mental health: 81 percent said the impact is dangerous (37 percent very dangerous, 44 percent somewhat dangerous) and 19 percent said it isnot dangerous (14 percent somewhat dangerous, 5 percent not dangerous at all).

Vito Barcelo

‘China causes most damage in SCS areas’

A REPORT published by a Washingtonbased think-tank says China has caused the most ecological damage in vast areas in the South China Sea through destructive dredging and fishing methods.

Using satellite imagery on 180 occupied and non-occupied features in the South China Sea, the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI) of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) found that at least 4,500 acres of coral reefs have been destroyed by China’s artificial island-building in the disputed waters through dredging and landfill.

An additional 16,300 acres of coral reefs were damaged due to giant clam harvesting by Chinese fishermen, the American policy group said.

Greg Poling, CSIS senior fellow and director of AMTI, said it may take decades for the reefs to come back given the current extent of damage.

EU pledges cash aid for flooding victims

THE European Union (EU) has announced a 500,000-euro (P30.2 million) humanitarian aid for the victims of the recent flooding and landslides in several parts of Mindanao.

The funding will address the immediate needs of 12,000 people in some of the worst-hit, isolated areas in the southern region, the EU Delegation in Manila said Thursday.

“A series of unexpected heavy rainfall caused thousands of families in Mindanao to lose their homes, livelihoods, and belongings,” EU Ambassador Luc Véron said.

“The EU funding will support our humanitarian partners in delivering crucial assistance to the most vulnerable, ensuring they can cover their basic needs in this time of crisis.”

The assistance will help EU humanitarian partners on the ground to deliver vital aid to those most in need.

The aid will also focus on providing emergency food and livelihood support, as well as ensuring that affected families have access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and education.

Congress urged to OK P150 wage hike

By Vito Barcelo

THE Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) called on the members of Congress to immediately pass House Bill No. 7871 or the Wage Recovery Act of 2023 seeking to legislate an across-the-board wage increase of P150 in the daily wages of private sector workers nationwide.

The measure was authored by TUCP President and House Deputy Speaker Raymond Democrito C. Mendoza.

In a statement, the TUCP said that since 1989, the Regional Tripartite Wages and

Groups hail PBBM decision on TNVS rules

SEVERAL consumer advocacy groups are supporting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent call to relax regulations on transportation network vehicle services (TNVS), which include motorcycle taxis and other vehicles that offer ride-hailing services.

CitizenWatch Philippines Co-

Convenor Kit Belmonte said the President’s recent pronouncement is an acknowledgment of the urgent need to provide better, more affordable, and safer options for the commuting public.

“The public transportation system is plagued by many problems, resulting in a commuting experience that is inconvenient and expensive for the people. Meanwhile, Filipinos have no other choice but to bear with these difficulties so that they can keep on earning a living to support their families,” Belmonte said.

Belmonte said relaxing the regulations on TNVS opens up opportunities for companies aside from existing players that will be able to serve more Filipinos.

Productivity Boards (RTWPBs) have failed to keep pace with significant changes in the cost of living, adding that immediate and meaningful wage hikes are urgent amid high prices, low incomes and widespread

joblessness and informality.

The TUCP also blamed the outmoded and exploitative approach of the government in setting ‘cheap wages’.

The last legislated wage hike through Republic Act No. 6727 or the Wage Rationalization Act which established the regional wage boards was P25 on top of the then-P64 minimum wage whereas the highest latest minimum wage hike given by the regional wage boards as of 2024 was only P50, according to the TUCP.

The TUCP stressed that after nearly 35 years without a legislated wage hike,

Congress should act now to address worker survival needs to reverse this ‘cheap labor’ policy.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the poverty threshold for a family of five nationwide is P12,030 on average monthly. This is based on the P79 daily per capita poverty threshold converted to monthly for a family of five. The labor group said the current administration has yet to mandate any wage increase despite heightening public clamor as well as petitions and bills filed by labor groups and lawmakers, respectively. Maricel V. Cruz

AGAINST CHA-CHA. An elderly woman, a member of the Koalisyon Laban sa ChaCha, joined protest actions at the Plaza Roma in Intramuros Manila on Thursday against the continued push for charter change.

Danny Pata

DAY IN COURT. Environmental activists Jhed Tamano and Jonila Castro arrived at the Court of Appeals in Manila on Thursday to attend a hearing on writs of amparo and habeas data filed at the court. The two are also facing a defamation case filed by the military against the activists.

Danny Pata

Canada opens Pacific agri office in PH

By Rey E. Requejo

CANADA has inaugurated its most ambitious program in the Indo-Pacific, with the Philippines as the headquarters of its operations.

Canadian Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay led on Wednesday the opening of the Indo-Pacific Agriculture and AgriFood Office, which will serve as a hub for improving connections between Canadian stakeholders and regional partners in the agriculture industry.

Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman stressed that Ottawa chose the Philippines due to the latter being “the elbow or the knee” as well as the “connective tissue” of the whole Indo-Pacific.

“The physical geography that the Philippines occupies, connecting North Asia to South Asia through here in Southeast Asia, just makes eminent sense,” Hartman said. “So it’s the ideal conduit for us to be able to grow our footprint in the region,” he added.

For the next five years, Canada will be allotting 32 million Canadian dollars for the operations of the said office. That is part of the 2.4 billion Canadian dollars that it has earmarked for its Indo-Pacific Strategy.

Lawmaker seeks support for measure to boost capital markets in PH

By Maricel V. Cruz

REP. Ray T. Reyes of AnaKalusugan

Party-list is pushing for a measure to boost capital markets and raise the investment competitiveness in the country.

Reyes also defended a bill which seeks to reduce taxes for stock

transactions and create equality in the tax treatment of debt and stock securities.

“There is a sense of urgency that we be immediately competitive with other regions, especially our ASEAN neighbors,” Reyes said during plenary deliberations on House Bill No. 9277.

According to the lawmaker, the Phil-

DEMOLITION. A resident holds the image of the Sto. Niño after a demolition team destroyed the more than 50 houses of informal settlers in Calamba Street, Brgy. Sto. Domingo in Quezon City. Teddy Brul

ippines is the country with the highest stock transaction tax in the ASEAN 6 while remaining 2nd to the last in market capitalization.

“If we do not do this, we may be overtaken by Vietnam and be the last in the ASEAN 6 in terms of market capitalization,” he added. The measure seeks to amend the Tax

Code by reducing taxes on stock transactions from 0.6 percent to just 0.1 percent of stock value and the tax on dividends of foreign non-residents from 25 percent to 10 percent.

Currently, the transaction tax in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam is 0.1 percent, Thailand is at 0.11 percent, while Singapore is at 0 percent.

Agents intercept Chinese wanted for kidnapping, illegal detention

By

Taguig

By Joel E. Zurbano

case before he can have his name lifted from the bureau’s hold departure list, as he claimed that said case was already dismissed,” said BI-BCIU overall deputy

chief Joseph Cueto.

The Chinese man was wanted for kidnapping and serious illegal detention for ransom which was filed by three other Chinese nationals before Angeles City RTC Branch 56 on March 30, 2020.

Prosecutors alleged that on Feb. 28, 2020 the four accused conspired and confederated to “willfully, unlawfully and feloniously abduct, detain and deprive” of his liberty another Chinese man by means of force.

The suspects demanded 300,000 yuan as ransom for his release. He was, however, released when rescued by a team of policemen from the PNP’s anti-kidnapping task force on March 15, 2020.

Tansingco lauded the BI personnel who successfully foiled Hu’s attempt to flee the country, citing the serious offenses that the Chinese passenger is accused of having committed.

‘Don’t fear ICC if nothing to hide’

By Maricel V. Cruz

ADMINISTRATION lawmakers said Thursday former President Rodrigo Duterte should not be afraid of facing the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged human rights violations committed during his six-year term that ended in June 2022.

Reps. Ernesto Dionisio of Manila’s first district, Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo of Lanao del Norte’s first district, and Francisco Paolo Ortega of the first district of La Union believe, however, that the court still has no jurisdic-

tion over the Philippines, just like what President Marcos declared recently.

“Personally, I, like all of us congressmen here, stand with the President that ICC really has no jurisdiction. But if you have nothing to hide – more or

less – why will you be afraid when ICC comes in?” Dionisio said.

Dimaporo, chairman of the House Committee on Muslim Affairs, raised the same concern.

“If there is nothing to hide, then why fear the ICC?” he asked. “On the part of the President, it’s more of our national sovereignty that our institutions are still functioning.”

The Mindanao legislator said there is no need for the ICC to come over and investigate alleged thousands of cases of extrajudicial killings on the basis that the country’s democratic institutions – like the police and the judiciary

– are perfectly functioning.

“I don’t believe it will be a detriment on the part of the Philippine government to have it confirmed by the ICC – whether there was or whether there was not any extra-judicial killings during the concept on the war on drugs of the previous administration,” Dimaporo added.

Ortega, for his part, said he understands why 59 percent of respondents in the latest OCTA survey supported an ICC probe.

“We stand with the decision of the President, but we also respect the survey. Perhaps people are seeing the irregularities, and these will really come out in surveys,” he said.

‘Private schools need not follow new calendar’

THE Department of Education (DepEd) clarified Thursday that private schools are not obligated to follow the revised school calendar implemented for public schools this year.

This comes after DepEd released an order that recommended the end of 2024 classes by May 31, as it implements a plan to gradually shift back towards a June-to-March calendar.

DepEd Assistant Secretary Francis Bringas issued the clarification amid concerns regarding its impact on private institutions.

He explained that while some private schools already aligned their academic year with the traditional July or June opening, others opted to follow the public school schedule in August.

“Private schools that chose to start alongside public schools in August are not mandated to modify their calendars,” Bringas stated during a public briefing. “They retain the option to keep their approved schedules or adjust as needed.”

This flexibility underscores the autonomy granted to private schools in managing their academic calendars, Bringas added. While public schools undergo standardized adjustments as per DepEd regulations, private institutions have the discretion to establish their own academic year structure, as long as it meets the minimum requirements set by the department.

Illegal POGO workers deported to China, Vietnam

By Joel Zurbano

AROUND 43 Chinese nationals and one Vietnamese involved in illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO) were deported Thursday, from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1.

They were among the fifth batch of foreign workers arrested during a raid by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Com-

mission (PAOCC), Department of Justice, and the Philippine National Police last October for violating immigration laws.

PAOCC Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz said the 44 individuals failed to provide proper documents such as passports and travel authority during their stay in the country.

Cruz noted that the government spent P35 million to arrange the deportation process of the illegal aliens.

This comes after the National Capital Region Police Office last week announced the arrest of at least 11 individuals in an anti-illegal online gambling operation in Parañaque City. The operation, conducted in coordination with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), also resulted in the seizure of computer sets and other electronic devices used in the illegal business.

OFFICERS from the Southern Police District

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Grace Poe on Thursday underscored the need for tighter measures to curb financial fraud, noting this will protect Filipinos’ hard-earned money as more shift to online banking and digital payments.

“They say that there are only two certain things in life: death and taxes. Now, these need amendment: death, taxes, and scams,” Poe said.

“These fraudulent schemes and rackets have become the bane of our financial consumers,”

she added.

As one of the sponsors of Senate Bill No. 2560 or the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act, which she filed as early as 2021, Poe said the measure was “borne out of necessity.”

The pandemic pushed the people to rely on online financial transactions heavily. However, she rued the spike in digital transactions came with an increase in fraud cases as well.

Last week, Poe said news reports revealed at least 120 e-wallet account holders losing money from a phishing scam as reported by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

DA holds release of 400 gamefowl imported from US

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Agriculture stalled the release of some 400 imported gamefowl from the United States following reports of an avian influenza outbreak in two US states.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said holding off the release of the fighting cocks is part of the DA’s protocol to ensure that no AI-infected poultry enters the country.

“The BAI (Bureau of Animal Industry) acted on information received regarding imported breeding stocks. We had banned importation of birds, including poultry products, due to recent outbreaks of H5N1, a highly pathogenic avian influenza strain (from California and Ohio),” said Tiu Laurel.

BAI issued the standard precautionary measure to prevent potential spread of avian influenza to the multibillion-peso Philippine poultry industry.

The gamebirds from Atlanta, Georgia were brought by a courier on behalf of several Filipino breeders of fighting cocks.

The courier attested to have secured all necessary permits for the shipment, both from BAI and from US authorities and that the birds have tested negative for avian influenza.

14 Pinoys back in PH from Gaza, make up batch 8

THE Department of Foreign Affairs said 14 repatriates from Gaza arrived in the Philippines on Wednesday night amid the ongoing war between Hamas and Israel.

The DFA’s Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers’ Affairs said it was the eighth batch of repatriation that the Philippine government facilitated since the Oct. 7 attack of Hamas and the subsequent conflict in Gaza with the Israel Defense Forces.

“We are pleased to know that they safely arrived today in the Philippines,” Undersecretary for Migrant Workers’ Affairs Eduardo Jose de Vega said Thursday.

“As with our past repatriates from Gaza, the DFA, through the Philippine Embassy in Cairo, Egypt provided welfare assistance to the families who arrived today. We hope that it can help them start over,” he added.

The DFA coordinated their repatriation with the Philippine Embassies in Cairo, Amman, and Doha. Rey E. Requejo

Citizen Barok

Louis ‘Barok’ Biraogo

Andres ignites drug war transformation

IN A brightly lit hall of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes at the Rockwell Business Center Sheridan in Mandaluyong City, on Feb. 1, 2024, amid the solemnity of gathered dignitaries and stakeholders, Undersecretary Jesse Hermogenes T. Andres stood tall, his voice resonating with determination as he delivered a speech that could very well mark the turning point in our battle against the drug scourge.

Andres, a figure of formidable stature in the corridors of justice, addressed the assembly with a clarity of purpose that belied the complexity of the issue at hand.

—“—

It was not just a speech; it was a manifesto, a call to arms for all those who believe in the power of compassion, in the power of redemption

He painted a vivid picture of a nation at the crossroads, a nation grappling with the age-old dilemma of law enforcement versus public health, of punishment versus rehabilitation.

But in his vision, there was no dichotomy, no false dichotomy between these seemingly opposing forces. Instead, there was synergy, a harmonious blend of strategies aimed at tackling the root causes of addiction while holding accountable those who preyed upon the vulnerable. His proposal, unveiled with the precision of a surgeon’s scalpel, was nothing short of revolutionary. Gone were the days of brute force and heavy-handed tactics.

Footnotes

In their place stood a holistic approach, one that recognized addiction as a disease, not a moral failing. It was a bold departure from the status quo, a departure that would require courage and resolve from all those involved.

But Andres was undeterred, his resolve unwavering in the face of skepticism and cynicism.

He spoke of inclusivity, of the need to hear all voices, from the highest echelons of power to the grassroots level.

He rallied support from NGOs, social workers, psychologists, health workers, and international organizations, casting aside the barriers of bureaucracy and ego in pursuit of a common goal.

As he spoke, his words carried the weight of his illustrious career, a career marked by tireless dedication to the cause of justice.

From his humble beginnings as a working law student to his tenure as Chief of Staff to Vice President Noli De Castro, Andres had always been a crusader for what was right.

His accomplishments, meticulously outlined in his profile, painted a portrait of a man driven not by personal ambition but by a genuine desire to make a difference.

Undersecretary Andres was not just a bureaucrat; he was a visionary, a trailblazer in the truest sense of the word.

His leadership, his foresight, his unwavering commitment to the principles of justice and fairness were the driving forces behind this new chapter in our nation’s history.

As he laid out his vision for the future, one could not help but feel a sense of optimism, a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness.

It was not just a speech; it was a manifesto, a call to arms for all those who believe in the power of compassion, in the power of redemption.

It was a declaration of war against the forces of apathy and indifference, a declaration that would echo through the annals of time.

Undersecretary Jesse Hermogenes T. Andres had spoken, and the world would never be the same again.

Tranquil G. Salvador III

A LAWYER-client relationship starts when the lawyer and client execute a written agreement stipulating the terms and conditions of their relationship.

At this point, “[a] lawyer shall be mindful of the trust and confidence reposed by the client… [and] shall not abuse or exploit the relationship with a client” (Section 6, Canon III, Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability).

“A lawyer shall maintain the confidences of the client [during the existence of such a relationship], and… shall continue even after the termination of the lawyerclient engagement” (Section 27).

“The duty to keep client’s confidences applies even if the legal engagement does not materialize or the lawyer is not eventually hired (see Section 24(b), Rule 130. 2019 Rules on Evidence).

The absence of a written agreement does not exempt the lawyer from his or her duty to protect the client’s confidences.

The lawyer’s duty of non-disclosure of confidential information is to induce freedom of communication between them so that the lawyer can provide competent legal advice.

Keeping client’s confidences by the lawyer is known as attorney-client privilege.

“[This]… privilege seems first to have been recognized in the 16th century [which]… seemed to have been based upon the honor of the attorney, who could waive it” (Fundamentals of Attorney Client Privilege, A. Kenneth Pye, Dean, Duke University School of Law).

“During the 18th century, the courts found a new rationale in protecting the client from apprehension that his confidences might be betrayed. By the middle of the 19th century it was recognized that the privilege belonged to the client” (Fundamentals of Attorney Client Privilege).

“At first it existed only when a confidence had been communicated to a lawyer during litigation. Ultimately, it extended to any consultation for legal advice” (Fundamentals of Attorney Client Privilege).

“A lawyer may disclose the legal matters entrusted by a client of the firm to the partners and associates, as well as paralegals, legal assistants, law clerks, legal researchers, law interns, and other non-legal staff,

who are or will be involved in the handling of the client’s account, unless expressly prohibited by the client” (Section 30, Canon III). Further, “[a] lawyer directly entrusted with a client’s confidences shall adopt necessary measures to prevent other members of the law firm, both legal and non-legal, to whom the client’s confidences have been shared, from disclosing or using them, without the written informed consent of the client” (Section 30, Canon III).

There are also instances when even the

Minimum wage hike: Boon or bane?

THE good news is the Senate has approved on third and final reading Senate Bill 2354, which proposes a P100 across-the-board hike in the daily minimum pay of private sector employees.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, co-sponsor of the bill, said if the measure gets signed into law, it could be “the first time since 1989” that a legislated pay hike would be implemented nationwide.

He likewise emphasized the pressing need to increase the minimum wage of workers, particularly those in Visayas and Mindanao who are earning P360 a day: “How can you live with P360 a day? It’s impossible.”

Once this bill is passed and becomes a law, this will provide a great relief to our poor and hardworking employees.

The proposed law guarantees an increase in the daily pay of around 4.2 million minimum wage earners.

Under the bill, all employees in the private sector, whether agricultural or non-agricultural, are entitled to the P100-daily minimum wage increase.

“A lawyer shall not reveal the confidences of the client…, except: (a) when a written informed consent is obtained from the client; (b) when required by law… or the Rules of Court; (c) to the extent necessary to collect the lawyer’s fees; (d) in defense of the lawyer or the lawyer’s employees or associates; or (e) by judicial order, but only if material” (Section 28, Canon III).

Under the 2019 Rules on Evidence, a lawyer cannot be examined as to any communication or advice given by him or her to a client, except with the latter’s consent.

The protection against non-disclosure of confidential information cannot be used if the legal services were sought to commit or plan to commit a crime (see Section 24(b), Rule 130).

The privilege will also not apply to communications (a) relevant to an issue between the same parties who claim through the same deceased client; (b) relevant to an issue of breach of duty by the lawyer to his

Over at the House of Representatives, there are bills seeking a P150 hike and P750 across-the-board minimum daily wage for private sector workers and P33,000-a-month entry level for public sector workers.

—“—

Another bill has been filed seeking a P50,000 entry salary base for teachers

Another bill has been filed seeking a P50,000 entry salary base for teachers.

For the labor sector, however, the P100 wage proposal falls short of the P150 originally promised and “a far cry from what is needed to save minimum wage earners from the poverty wages imposed upon them by the regional wage boards.”

Still, they said they welcome it as a form of relief, and a good start to correcting the problems created by the regional wage setting mechanism. Employers are also up in arms against the wage hike proposal, but for another reason.

About Town Ernesto M. Hilario

Strategic partnership with Vietnam

AT THE outset, let’s get clear on definitions. A strategic partnership builds a relationship between nations or organizations such as militaries, but they are less formal than alliances and can be short-term and do not involve a treaty.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization is an alliance between the U.S. and 28 other countries. Closer to home, we have the Mutual Defense Treaty with the U.S. that binds us to come to each other’s aid in the event of an armed attack.

The recent two-day state visit of President Marcos Jr. to Vietnam was perhaps too brief, but it managed to enhance nearly five decades of bilateral ties toward a strategic partnership encompassing a broad range of cooperation on mutual interests and concerns.

President Marcos held meetings with key Vietnamese leaders.

He discussed with President Vo Van Thoung how they could expand cooperation in such the fields of defense, maritime security, trade and investment, tourism, education and culture.

They also witnessed the exchange of agreements between the two countries on rice, agriculture, culture and maritime cooperation.

The leaders of the two countries also signed a memorandum of agreement on maritime cooperation amid their territorial disputes with Beijing over parts of the South China Sea.

The memorandum of understanding on maritime cooperation between the coast guards of the Philippines and Vietnam seeks “to strengthen understanding, mutual trust and confidence of cooperation… towards the promotion, preservation, and protection of their mutual interests in the Southeast Asian region.”

This agreement would allow both countries to better manage conflicts in the contested waters and conduct activities “in accordance with principles of in-

or her client, or vice-versa; (c) relevant to an issue concerning an attested document to which the lawyer is an attesting witness (not acting as a lawyer); or (d) relevant to a matter of common interest between two or more clients who retained or consulted a common lawyer (see Section 24(b), Rule 130).

“A lawyer shall continue to be bound by the rule on confidentiality pertaining to clients of his or her previous law office or law firm” (Section 29, Canon III). For example, if the lawyer resigns from a law office or forms his or her own law office, he or she has to keep in confidence all the information received during the tenure in the previous law office.

ternational law, the national laws of each party, and international conventions to which both Vietnam and Philippines are parties.”

The maritime deal aims to establish a comprehensive partnership between the two nations’ coast guards on capacity building, training, and personnel and ship exchanges, all to improve their ability to operate together.

—“—

The Philippines and Vietnam have since 1976 forged robust trade relations, with total trade amounting to US$6.18 billion in 2022

Marcos also held separate meetings with Vietnam Prime Minster Pham Minh Chinh and National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue, where they discussed expanded people-to-people exchanges and parliamentary cooperation.

In his meeting with Vietnamese business leaders, the President said the group expressed their interest in expanding their businesses in the Philippines as well as exploring cooperation with our business sector in various traditional and non-traditional economic activities. The Philippines and Vietnam signed an agreement that would allow private Vietnamese traders to supply

In case a lawyer joins another law office that represents an interest adverse to that of the previous law office’s client, he or she must decline participation in the litigation or legal project involving the said client. The new employer’s law office cannot compel a lawyer to disclose confidences received from the latter’s previous clients. It is a lawyer’s duty “[n]ot [to] discuss a client’s confidences even with family members” (Section 31, Canon III). While it cannot be avoided that members of the family may know the clients a lawyer represents especially if the cases are highly publicized, a lawyer is prohibited from

The Employers Confederation of the Philippines said it would be a “catastrophe” to legislate the P100-daily minimum wage increase as it could cause prices of goods to spiral higher or even force small firms struggling to pay higher salaries to lay off workers.

For Ecop president Sergio OrtizLuis, the proposed wage increase would benefit only 10 percent of the country’s labor force who are employed in stable medium- to large-sized companies that could afford to pay higher salaries.

“If you increase wages without considering your sales or profit, you can only resort to two things—pass on the cost [to consumers] or reduce your number of workers. Would we want that to happen,” he asked.

A higher minimum wage would also lead to higher inflation, the Ecop head pointed out, and significantly impact the country’s job creation initiative this year as this could keep investors from pushing through with plans to establish or expand local operations.

The government should make up its mind on whether a legislated wage hike should be pursued given the need to strike a balance between the welfare of workers and the viability of micro, small and medium-sized businesses that could find it very difficult to shoulder wage increases at this time.

Filipino counterparts with up to 2 million metric tons of rice annually for five years at fair prices.

The President’s dialogue with the VinGroup Company opened up possible collaboration to explore in the fields of artificial intelligence, medical courses and scholarships for Filipino students. Other topics they discussed included active participation in the electric vehicle and battery supply chains.

At the same time, Marcos said he successfully safeguarded the interest of Filipino businesses operating in Vietnam by providing them with the platform to voice their experiences, plans, and challenges at the very highest level.

He assured them that the Philippine government stands ready to support in their endeavors in competing foreign markets.

The chief executive also met with the Filipino community in Vietnam, and expressed appreciation for their good work in projecting a very positive image of the Philippines in Vietnam and for contributing to the socio-economic development of the two countries.

There are an estimated 7,003 Filipinos in Vietnam. In 2022, overseas Filipino workers’ (OFW) remittances amounted to US$13.7 million.

Also signed during the visit was another MOU on a five-year cultural cooperation program between the Philippines’ National Commission for Culture and the Arts of the Republic and Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

The program expands the exchanges established under a similar accord signed in 1998.

Formal diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Vietnam span 47 years since its formal establishment on July 12, 1976, with the two countries elevating their relations to a strategic partnership in 2015.

The Philippines and Vietnam have since 1976 forged robust trade relations, with total trade amounting to US$6.18 billion in 2022.

Exports between the two countries were valued at US$1.72 billion, while imports amount to US$4.46 billion. With Vietnam, the Philippines has established a strategic partnership that’s likely to grow even stronger in the years ahead for our mutual benefit.

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

discussing its factual details with them. This prohibition extends equally to private conversations or confidences exchanged in intimate circumstances between spouses, partners, or lovers. Lawyers must be aware that information received in confidence from a client is protected information that cannot be casually disclosed. There are also instances when even the identity of prospective clients or single consultations with a lawyer cannot be disclosed.

“A lawyer shall not reveal that he or she has been consulted about a particular case except to avoid possible conflict of interest” (Section 32, Canon III).

B2 WORLD

Leak shows firm hacked foreign govts, say analysts

BEIJING—A Chinese tech security firm was able to breach foreign governments, infiltrate social media accounts and hack personal computers, a massive data leak analysed by experts this week revealed.

The trove of documents from ISoon, a private company that competed for Chinese government contracts, shows that its hackers compromised more than a dozen governments, according to cybersecurity firms SentinelLabs and Malwarebytes.

I-Soon also breached “democracy organizations” in China’s semi-autonomous city of Hong Kong, universities and the NATO military alliance, SentinelLabs researchers wrote Wednesday.

The leaked data, the contents of which AFP was unable to immediately verify, was posted last week on the online software repository GitHub by an unknown individual.

“The leak provides some of the most concrete details seen publicly to date, revealing the maturing nature of China’s cyber espionage ecosystem,” SentinelLabs analysts said.

I-Soon was able to breach government offices in India, Thailand, Vietnam and South Korea, among others, Malwarebytes said in a separate post on Wednesday.

I-Soon’s website was not available Thursday morning, though an internet archive snapshot of the site from Tuesday says it is based in Shanghai, with subsidiaries and offices in Beijing, Sichuan, Jiangsu and Zhejiang. The firm did not reply to a request for comment from AFP. AFP

RELENTLESS FIGHTING.

This handout picture released by the Jordanian armed forces media office on Wednesday shows boxes of humanitarian aid provided by Jordan and Britain being transported to a military plane and slated for airdrops over the Gaza Strip, amid ongoing battles between Israel and the militant group Hamas. AFP

Israel strikes southern Gaza’s Rafah as truce talks under way

PALESTINIAN Territories—Israel launched air strikes Thursday on southern Gaza’s Rafah after threatening to send troops into the city, where around 1.4 million Palestinians have sought shelter from around the territory.

Global powers trying to navigate a way to end the Israel-Hamas war have so far come up short, but a US envoy was expected in Israel on Thursday to try to secure a truce deal.

International concern has spiralled over the high civilian death toll and dire humanitarian crisis in the war sparked by Hamas’s Oct. 7 attack against Israel.

More than four months of relentless fighting and air strikes have flattened much of the

Hamas-run coastal territory, pushing its population of around 2.4 million to the brink of famine, according to the UN.

International concern has in recent weeks centred on Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah, where more than 1.4 million people forced to flee their homes elsewhere in the territory are now living in crowded shelters and makeshift tents.

The last city untouched by Israeli ground troops, Rafah also serves as

the main entry point via neighboring Egypt for desperately needed relief supplies.

Israel has warned it will expand its ground operations into Rafah if Hamas does not free the remaining hostages held in Gaza by next month’s start of the Muslim holy month Ramadan. The war started when Hamas launched its attack on Oct. 7, which resulted in the deaths of about 1,160 people in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of official Israeli figures. Hamas militants also took about 250 hostages -- 130 of whom remain in Gaza, including 30 presumed dead, according to Israel.

Israel’s retaliatory campaign has killed at least 29,313 people, mostly

US

women and children, according to the latest count by the Hamas-run health ministry in the territory.

War cabinet member Benny Gantz said Israel’s operation in Rafah would begin “after the evacuation of the population”, although his government has not offered any details on where civilians would be evacuated to.

In the early hours of Thursday, AFP reporters heard multiple air strikes on Rafah, particularly in the Al-Shaboura neighborhood.

The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza said early Thursday that 99 people had been killed around Gaza during the night, most of them women, children and elderly people.

Abdel Rahman Mohamed Jumaa said he lost his family in recent strikes on Rafah. AFP

Congressional support

for Taiwan

‘extremely strong,’ says China critic

TAIPEI—The chairman of the US House of Representatives committee on China said Thursday that support in his country’s legislature for Taiwan was “extremely strong”, after a meeting with the selfruled island’s top leadership.

Mike Gallagher heads a five-member delegation that met with Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen and Vice President Lai Ching-te, who won last month’s presidential election and will take office in May.

“I actually think support for Taiwan in the United States Congress... I see growing and extremely strong support for Taiwan,” Gallagher told reporters.

The United States is Taiwan’s most important ally, and the island has been at the centre of tensions with China,

which claims it as its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring it under Beijing’s control.

Gallagher, a vocal critic of China, added that he believed US support for Taiwan would be unaffected by the result of his country’s 2024 presidential election.

“I am very confident that support for Taiwan will continue regardless of who occupies the White House,” he said. He also warned Beijing against any attempt to invade Taiwan, saying to do so would be “incredibly foolish”.

“If Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party were to ever make the incredibly foolish decision to attempt an invasion of Taiwan... that effort would fail,” he said during the meeting with Lai. AFP

In Michigan, Arab American voters promise to ‘punish’ Biden

DEARBORN—It’s common to hear residents chatting in Arabic just as often as English in this Detroit suburb’s stores or mosques, those buildings themselves often sporting bilingual signage out front. But no matter the language, residents in this Arab American and Muslim stronghold in the Midwestern state of Michigan are convinced President Joe Biden, as he steadfastly stands by Israel in its war in Gaza, is not listening

to them.

“Vote for Palestine. No Biden,” political organizer Samra’a Luqman says in English, passing out fliers outside a mosque after prayers.

“Don’t vote for Biden,” the activist with Yemeni origins adds in Arabic.

“Of course,” respond many passersby.

As the Gaza Strip death toll climbs, residents here—once firmly in the Democratic fold—are turning against

the president in a crucial swing state he won by just 150,000 votes in 2020. Some are hoping to pressure Biden to back off from his Israel support and call for a ceasefire. Others, like Luqman, say they would never vote for him.

“He’s committing the genocide. He’s funding it,” Luqman, a campaign leader with a group called Abandon Biden, tells AFP.

A campaign is underway by Luqman and others urging voters to vote “un-

committed,” or write in “Free Palestine” on their ballots in the state’s primary next week—a symbolic gesture, since Biden faces no serious challengers for the Democratic nomination.

“This is a campaign about pressuring our current president who can do something about the mass killing of children,” says Abbas Alawieh, a former Democratic chief of staff on Capitol Hill and member of the Listen to Michigan campaign group. AFP

At least 16 dead in Venezuela illegal jungle mine collapse

LA PARAGUA, Venezuela—At least 16 people died when an illegal gold mine collapsed in the jungles of southern Venezuela, officials said Wednesday (Thursday in Manila) revising down an earlier figure.

The incident happened Tuesday at the “Bulla loca” mine in the state of Bolivar, a seven-hour boat ride from the nearest town, La Paragua, where family members waited anxiously for news.

Officials gave conflicting accounts of the number of dead.

The Bolivar state’s secretary of citizen security, Edgar Colina Reyes, said 16 people were dead. President Nicolas Maduro said another 11 were injured.

“I convey my condolences to the families and friends of these people who un-

fortunately died in this accident,” Maduro said on state television.

But earlier in the day, Yorgi Arciniega, mayor of the Angostura municipality, told AFP that about 23 bodies had been recovered, including 15 that had arrived by boat in La Paragua and about another eight on their way.

Deputy Minister of civil protection Carlos Perez Ampueda published a video of the incident on X, and referred to “a massive” toll, though providing no numbers. Some 200 people were thought to have been working in the mine, according to officials.

The video showed dozens of people working in the shallow waters of an open pit mine when a wall of earth slowly collapses upon them. Some managed to flee while others were engulfed. AFP

CENTER OF TENSIONS. This handout picture taken and released by the Taiwan Presidential Office on Thursday shows President Tsai Ing-wen shaking hands with US representatives led by Mike Gallagher (right) at the Presidential Office in Taipei. Gallagher, a vocal critic of

said

would

Stock index surpasses 6,900 level on corporate profit growth

By Jenniffer B. Austria

LOCAL shares rose Thursday, mimicking the performance of the US markets, as investors await more catalysts.

The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index went up 5.79 points, or 0.08 percent, to close at 6,903.15, while the broader all-shares index rose 1.73 points, or 0.05 percent, to 3,601.83.

“The anticipated positive corporate 2023 performance aided the bourse to close at 6,900 levels and join most of the regional peers in green territory,” Philstocks Financial Inc. research analyst Mikhail Plopenio said. “The increased vehicle sales in January also boosted the positive sentiment as this implied that spend-

ing remained strong,” he said.

Total value turnover reached P4.67 billion, higher than the year-to-date average of P4.55 billion.

Foreigners were net buyers, with net inflows amounting to P114.63 million.

Meanwhile, other Asian markets also rose Thursday, with Tokyo’s benchmark index posting a record high after greater-than-expected earnings from US chip giant Nvidia.

Highly anticipated earnings results from Nvidia beat expectations late Wednesday, with the firm reporting a quarterly profit of $12.3 billion on record-high revenue driven by demand for its AI-powering chips.

Following a mixed day on Wall Street, the company announced record revenue of $22.1 billion in the quarter that ended late January and $60.9 billion for the fiscal year. With AFP

Angkas supports moves to legalize motor taxis

By Darwin G. Amojelar

Angkas, the pioneering motorcycle ride-hailing service in the country, expressed strong support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s initiatives to legalize motorcycle taxis and improve regulations for transport network vehicle services (TNVS).

“I echo the call of the President for legalizing motorcycle taxis and providing better regulations for the ride-hailing economy,” Angkas chief executive George Royeca said.

Processors push for more studies on VCO benefits

A COCONUT processors group called on the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) to fund more studies proving the health benefits of virgin coconut oil (VCO) after a 2021 study on clinical trial of VCO as an effective supplementary treatment for COVID-19 cases in Valenzuela City gained international publication.

The VCO Producers and Traders Association of the Philippines said studies on the coconut derivative product would be a big boon to the coconut farming industry and the coconut processing industry, showing the multiplier effects of such government assistance to the sector.

A study spearheaded by the DOSTFood Nutrition and Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) titled “Virgin coconut oil supplementation relieves symptoms and inflammation among COVID-19 positive adults: a single-blind randomized trial”, was published by the Cambridge University Press on the Journal of Nutritional Science on Jan. 23, 2024.

The authors of the study are DOSTFood Nutrition and Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) director, scientist II Imelda Angeles-Agdeppa, Jacus Nacis, Prof. Fabian Dayrit and Keith Tanda.

“More studies on the efficacy of VCO should be considered to determine whether VCO can provide safe and affordable adjunct therapy against viruses. This will also be valuable support for the VCO industry,” VCO Philippines said.

The Journal of Nutritional Science is an international, peer-reviewed, online only, open access journal that welcomes high-quality research articles in all aspects of nutrition. The journal says that the underlying aim of all published research should be the development of nutritional concepts.

The DOST-FNRI-led study was an expansion of the VCO clinical trials to ascertain its efficacy as a functional food against COVID-19 that was earlier conducted in Santa Rosa, Laguna in 2020 or at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns in the country

The study on the Santa Rosa, Laguna clinical trials which concluded that VCO had shortened the recovery of probable and suspected COVID-19 cases in Santa Rosa, Laguna was also published in the Journal of Functional Foods on May 25, 2021.

Royeca’s statement came after President Marcos’ recent pronouncements on collaboration with Grab Philippines to formalize motorcycle taxi operations and refine TNVS regulations.

Royeca said this move aligns with his long-standing advocacy, which he has pursued for eight years.

Royeca underscored the potential for broader advocacy with industry support, acknowledging the significance of Grab’s involvement.

“Companies like Grab can really help amplify that call. I’ve been doing it for years, and I’m glad that somebody else is coming in to help bring data. The more people are talking about it, the more companies are pushing that advocacy, the better it is for everyone,” Royeca

said. He said that since its founding in 2015, Angkas has been a staunch advocate for the Motorcycle Taxi Law, aiming to establish a legitimate transportation option and generate employment opportunities.

Royeca’s expertise has been instrumental in shaping the MC taxi bill, as lawmakers and regulators seek his expertise to ensure its effectiveness and feasibility. He also advocates for the enhancement of the PUV Modernization Program.

He cited the significance of in-

Mober prepares for new fund-raising to expand market reach

By Othel V. Campos

LOGISTICS start-up Mober plans to undertake another fund-raising activity before the end of the first quarter of 2024 to accelerate the company’s initiatives in green logistics.

Mober founder and chief executive Dennis Ng said the upcoming financial infusion aimed to expand its reach and impact in the logistics sector.

He said Mober’s initiatives are wellpositioned to contribute to the country’s green transition.

“With its expanding fleet and innovative solutions, Mober is on track to become a leader in green logistics in

Southeast Asia, starting in the Philippines, paving the way for a more sustainable future in the industry,” Ng said. Mober recently announced a $2 million seed funding round brokered by RT Heptagon Holdings’ (RTHH) chairman and president Rex Tiri.

He said with the new funding, Mober expanded its EV fleet to 60 vehicles, enhancing its capability to meet the rising demand for eco-friendly logistics services.

This move aligns with the global shift towards sustainable practices, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of delivery operations. A notable advancement in Mober’s

Dominion Holdings booked P277-m net income in 2023 after rebalancing

DOMINION Holdings Inc., formerly BDO Leasing & Finance Inc., on Thursday reported a net income of P277.3 million in 2023, higher than P69.3 million earnings in 2022.

The company said gross income increased to P343.7 million from P126.8 million in the previous year on the rebalancing of its investment portfolio towards higher-yielding placements and debt securities.

Total resources, predominantly comprised of investment securities, reached P6.38 billion, while stockholders’ equity improved to P6.37 billion.

Dominion Holding’s primary pur-

pose is to own real estate properties, securities/shares of stocks and other assets of other companies and engage in investment and business activities involving these assets.

The company obtained the Securities and Exchange Commission’s approval dated July 18, 2022 for the change in corporate name of BDO Leasing and Finance Inc. to Dominion Holdings Inc., the shift in primary and secondary purposes from a leasing and financing company to that of a holding company and the corresponding amendments to articles of incorporation and by-laws.

strategy is the development of a transport management system (TMS), which not only optimizes delivery efficiency but also tracks the CO2 savings achieved through the use of EVs. Mober inaugurated a flagship EV charging station in Pasay City, designed to support its growing fleet, particularly those serving IKEA Philippines. Mober is also set to implement sameday delivery services for SM Appliance Center, integrating eco-friendly practices into mainstream retail logistics. The initiative reflects Mober’s capability to adapt and innovate in response to the evolving needs of the market and its clients.

tegrating technology, training and welfare in the transportation sector.

“By incorporating comprehensive financing mechanisms, subsidies, and training programs, we can equip our drivers with the tools they need to thrive in a modern economy,” Royeca said.

“By reducing waiting times, ensuring reliable and safe travel and integrating technology for ease of use, we not only improve the daily commute, but also enhance the overall quality of life for millions of Filipinos”, he said.

Phoenix vows to manage assets, rules out dividends

By Alena Mae S. Flores PHOENIX Petroleum Philippines

Inc. said Thursday it cannot issue dividends for any class of shares, as it did not achieve retainable earnings in the past years.

“As of the moment, there are no retainable earnings and hence, the company is unable to declare and pay out any cash dividends for any class of shares,” Phoenix said in its reply to the Philippine Stock Exchange when asked about the status of its dividends to shareholders.

“The company is still focused on managing its current resources and prioritizing its operations and working capital to fulfill its obligations to its suppliers, creditors and shareholders, “ Phoenix said. The PSE asked Phoenix about the declaration of cash dividends for preferred shares series 4 (PNX4) for the years 2023 and 2024 and the declaration of cash dividends for PNX3B.

Phoenix said that for the period ended Dec. 31, 2022, the company reported a deficit in its audited financial statements.

It said external auditors were still in the process of auditing its AFS for the period ended Dec. 31, 2023.

“The company notes that the dividends of the company’s preferred shares, PNX4 and PNX3B, are cumulative in nature such that missed payments of dividends will accrue to the shareholders,” Phoenix said.

CLOUD PARTNERSHIP. ePLDT, the ICT subsidiary of PLDT Inc., is now Alibaba Cloud’s premium partner in the Philippines in a move demonstrating its commitment to serving the digital needs of local enterprises through leading cloud solutions. Leading the signing ceremony on Feb. 20, 2024 are ePLDT president and chief executive Victor Genuino (second from left) and Alibaba Cloud Intelligence general manager for the Philippines Allen Guo (third from left).

MERALCO’s SUPPORT. Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) reinforces its commitment to support GT Capital Holdings Inc. through timely energization of its township projects under the Federal Land Communities product line. Solidifying the cooperation are (from left) Federal Land Inc. technical execution group head Alvin Ty, Federal Land NRE global vice chairman Yusuke Hirano, Federal Land president and chief operating officer William Thomas Mirasol, GT Capital vice chairman and Federal Land chairman Alfred Ty, Meralco executive vice president and chief operating officer Ronnie Aperocho, GT Capital chairman Francisco Sebastian, Meralco senior vice president and chief revenue officer Ferdinand Geluz and first vice president and customer retail services head Charina Padua.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

CPG raises P2b from preferred shares offering

CENTURY Properties Group, Inc.

(CPG), a real estate firm controlled by the Antonio family, said Thursday it raised P2 billion from the issuance of preferred shares.

CPG said in a disclosure to the stock exchange it completed the P2-billion fund raising activity with the listing of 20 million perpetual, cumulative, non-participating, non-voting, redeemable, non-convertible Series B preferred shares (CPGPB) in the main board of the Philippine Stock Exchange.

The preferred shares were priced at P100 apiece.

“We are very pleased with the investors’ reception of our issuance which allowed us to price at the tighter end of the marketing spread and set the dividend rate at 7.5432 percent,” said CPG chief finance officer Ponciano Carreon Jr.

“The timing for CPGPB issuance was also good as the benchmark interest rates have started to move lower with the easing of inflationary pressures,” he said.

outpacing the 5.5-percent rise in commercial loans.

Total deposits grew 7.3 percent from the previous year to P2.4 trillion, with low-cost current and savings accounts (CASA) amounting to more than 60 percent or P1.4 trillion.

Fee income meanwhile increased 9 percent to P16.4 billion, largely driven by the expanding consumer business. Trading and forex gains were steady at P4 billion.

Non-performing loans (NPLs) ratio eased to 1.7 percent from 1.9 percent in 2022, below the banking system’s

By Darwin G. Amojelar

ABS-CBN Corp. and PLDT Inc. announced Thursday they have terminated the agreement to sell SkyCable Inc.’s broadband business, despite obtaining approval from the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC).

The two companies said they mutually agreed not to proceed with the sale of Sky Cable to PLDT under the sale and purchase agreement signed by the parties in March 2023.

“Following this development, Sky Cable is pleased to announce that its cable TV service will continue, assuring its subscribers that they can maintain their subscriptions,” ABS-CBN said.

“Meanwhile, Sky’s internet broadband service, SKYFiber, remains un-

THE Department of Finance (DOF) is studying the amendments to the charters of Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines to prepare them for public listing.

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said the possible amendments of DBP and LandBank charters, including their possible public listing, would broaden the local capital market.

This initiative aligns with the

PLDT

tion in its entirety as against all defendants,” it said.

affected,” it said. This was the second time the two companies decided not to pursue the transaction. PLDT and ABS-CBN announced in November 2020 they agreed to drop the sale of SkyCable, citing anti-trust concerns.

The PCC, the government’s antitrust body approved the sale of SkyCable broadband business to PLDT in January this year.

The board of directors of ABS-CBN on March 16, 2023 approved the sale

of its interests in Sky Cable directly or indirectly representing 58.7 percent of the outstanding capital stock of the company. The total gross proceeds to be received by ABS-CBN from the sale of shares is about P4 billion. Other stockholders of Sky Cable, Lopez Inc. and Sky Vision Corp. also agreed to sell their shares in Sky Cable to PLDT.

ABS-CBN said the total purchase price to be paid by PLDT for all the issued and outstanding capital stock of Sky Cable is P6.75 billion. Sky Vision said it would use the proceeds from the sale to settle its debt, including its obligations to ABSCBN. ABS-CBN said the sale was a “strategic decision resulting from, among other things, the significant capital expenditure requirements of Sky Cable to maintain its competitiveness.”

The P2-billion fresh capital raised from the preferred shares issuance was less than the P5 billion earlier targeted by CPG.

It earlier filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission an application to issue 30 million shares with an oversubscription of up to 20 million shares.

China Bank Capital Corp. was the sole issue manager, lead underwriter and bookrunner for the transaction.

“On behalf of CPG, we are grateful to our institutional and retail investors, transaction partners, dedicated working group, and stakeholders for their unwavering trust. The success of this undertaking is a testament to our combined efforts and their enduring support and confidence in CPG’s growth,” said CPG president and chief executive Marco Antonio. Jenniffer B. Austria

FFCCCII optimistic on 2024 prospects despite emerging global challenges

By Othel V. Campos

THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) expressed optimism on the country’s continued growth despite global challenges in the Year of the Dragon.

FFCCCIII president Cecilio Pedro, who spoke during the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) economic forum at Manila Hotel Thursday, outlined initiatives that would help the country survive the global slump and domestic issues on wage, inflation and food supply.

“Moving forward, we believe that we can do better this 2024, if we as a people unite and focus on strengthening our Philippine economy,” he said.

Pedro, founder of Lamoiyan Corp., the company behind Hapee toothpaste, said that despite reports of economic slowdown in Japan, Germany, Britain, which are traditional trading partners of the Philippines the country’s positive macro fundamentals would prevail to

DOF’s broader strategy to make the Philippine Stock Exchange more accessible to ordinary Filipinos, enabling them to become stakeholders in the nation’s economic growth, according to Recto. Recto also urged the PSE to collaborate with the government in making the stock market more accessible to ordinary Filipinos. “Wider public access to investment opportunities and a broad-based financial system are key

Sophia Olsson, who claims to have owned 2 PLDT shares and allegedly suffered $22.69 in losses in the aftermath of the disclosure of the “budget overrun”, filed the class-action against PLDT and its officers for allegedly violating Federal Securities Laws. Olsson alleged that the

total capital expenditures amounting to P379 billion from 2019 to 2022.

Darwin G. Amojelar

overcome economic uncertainties.

Pedro highlighted the initiative to continue the business reforms by expanding efforts to enhance the ease of doing business, ensuring contract stability and promoting fair competition.

“By this, we meant to uphold free market conditions and work towards reducing oligopolies for a truly competitive business environment,” he said.

FFCCCII said that empowering local manufacturing could improve Philippine economy and alleviate poverty, as the group has long championed the “Buy Pinoy” movement to support Philippine-made goods and create more jobs.

Other initiatives involve the revitalization of export industries, securing affordable and stable energy, accelerating digitalization, modernizing agriculture, constructing more infrastructure and giving a boost to tourism as pillar of Philippine economy and investing in globally competitive education.

“Good-quality and democratic access to

conditions for achieving inclusive growth,” Recto said.

“With the help of the PSE, I look forward to building the Philippine capital market into a platform where more small companies and wage earners become shareholders. That will be a measure of how much we have dispersed our economic activities and how inclusive our growth has been,” he said.

The PSE is the only stock exchange

education is one great way to solve the ageold challenge of poverty. Hence since 1961, FFCCCII’s flagship program ‘Operation: Barrio Schools’ has donated 6,200 public school buildings, or equivalent to 12,400 classrooms which benefit more than a million public school students nationwide, especially in the far-flung provinces,” Pedro said.

Completing the group’s list of important initiatives are continued social development policies, social capacity building and social justice to alleviate poverty and achieve inclusive growth; continued political and social stability; and fostering economic ties and partnerships with various countries with focus on boosting trade relations with Asian neighbors and traditional partners.

“In our collective vision, we at FFCCCII ardently believe that the conscientious pursuit of these reforms and initiatives will not only fortify the pillars of Philippine economic growth but will also render it more inclusive. We hope our Philippine economy shall be resilient and globally competitive,” Pedro said.

in the country, a self-regulatory organization that provides and ensures a fair, efficient, transparent and orderly market for the buying and selling of securities. It also offers a convenient and efficient venue for raising capital to support the growth of businesses.

Recto lauded the PSE for successfully diversifying the stock market by encouraging ten small companies to list with a total issue size of P29.6 billion. Darwin G. Amojelar

By Alena Mae S. Flores

ABOITIZ Power Corp. said Thursday it signed a share purchase agreement for the acquisition of an additional 15.6-percent equity stake in STEAG State Power Inc. (SPI) for $11 million.

AboitizPower said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange it signed the purchase agreement on Feb. 21, 2024, which would raise its stake in SPI to 85 percent.

SPI is the operator of the 210-megawatt Mindanao coal-fired power plant at the PHIVIDEC lndustrial Estate in Misamis Oriental.

“The acquisition will result in the expansion of attributable net income without adding new coal capacity to the grid,” AboitizPower said. AboitizPower said it was continuously managing and optimizing its generation portfolio, both in thermal and renewable energies.

“This is a good opportunity to help sustainably manage an existing generation facility, which is a vital component of the Mindanao

and provides affordable and reliable power to many Filipinos,” the company said.

grid,

NEW PCCI BOARD. The new board of directors and officers of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry hold a special dinner reception for all the committee chairs and co-chairs at Dusit Thani Manila in Makati City. Attending the reception are (seated, from left) Joel Tugade of publicity and promotions/PR committee, president Enunina Mangio, Jennylei Caberte, Rosemarie Bosch Ong of retail trade committee and Alejandro Manalac of membership special services committee. Standing are (from left) area vice president for NCR and director for health and wellness Dr. Hernando Delizo, Jose Leviste of environment and climate change committee, Rhoda Caliwara of labor and employment service committee, Socorro Bautista of membership and recruitment committee and vice president for regional affairs and membership Ma. Alegria Sibal Limjoco. Other officers are directors Samie Lim, William Co, Arturo Guerrero III, Atty. Benedicta Du Baladad, Elena Haw, Melanie Ng, honorary president and adviser Dr. Alberto Fenix, Raymund Jude Aguilar, Yvette Pardo Orbeta, Christine Clamor, and Rebecca Bucad.

Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) president Dr. Cecilio Pedro addresses the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) in a business forum on Philippine economic prospects at Manila Hotel.

ENTREPRENEURIAL TRAINING. The Laguna Provincial Office of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) supports the City Government of Calamba’s initiative to conduct ladderized trainings for existing entrepreneurs to equip them with knowledge and skills in order to continuously operate their respective businesses.

DTI-Laguna, through Negosyo Centers Calauan and Santa Cruz, in partnership with the city government of Calamba through its Cooperatives and Livelihood Development

Department (CLDD) conducted the workshop-seminar attended by sixty aspiring entrepreneurs.

Ancajas, Inoue set tone of respect ahead of clash

By Randy Caluag

IN A refreshing departure from the usual intensity that shrouds championship fight press conferences, Filipino challenger Jerwin Ancajas and defending champion Takuma Inoue showed mutual respect during a photo opportunity on Friday for the World Boxing Association bantamweight title fight in Kokugikan, Tokyo.

Amid

Fil-Am

sation Naoya Inoue.

The exchange included bows and a handshake, emphasizing a tone of sportsmanship rarely seen in the lead-up to such high-stakes bouts.

Ancajas’ message was short and sweet. “It’s all about respect. Good luck (to) both of us.”

The fighters are scheduled for another encounter at the weigh-in and final face-off on Friday, anticipated to be cordial once again.

However, the atmosphere is expected to shift dramatically when they step into the ring at the Kokugikan Arena on Saturday as they vie for the coveted 118-lb diadem.

In a recent interview, Ancajas vowed to deliver an impressive performance, expressing his desire for a victory that won’t go the distance.

“Dapat talaga impressive (performance) and mas maganda kung knockout,” said the former IBF super-flyweight champion, who boasts of a record 34-

3-2, with 23 knockouts.

Despite Inoue’s 18-1 record as the reigning champion, he lacks the knockout power and killer instinct of his renowned brother Naoya, with only four knockouts in his victories.

Sean Gibbons of MP Promotions affirmed Ancajas’ intent to go for a knockout if the opportunity arises.

“The only knockout is for Jerwin Ancajas if it ever happens,” Gibbons told Manila sportswriters.

Two days before the bout, Ancajas showcased his readiness during a public workout, exuding confidence in his physical condition and expressing strong motivation to regain the world champion title. Ancajas’ trainer and manager, Joven Jimenez, said they have a clear strategy, underscoring their goal to bring home the black and gold belt.

Quintanilla crowned Ladies Open golf queen

GRACE Quintanilla lost ground in the opening nine, but recovered beautifully in the last five holes to survive an intense finale over Laurea Duque and win by two in the 59th Philippine Ladies Open Presented by Monde Nissin held at the Manila Golf and Country Club here yesterday.

Quintanilla’s overnight fourstroke lead vanished after eight holes as she kept missing the greens on the approach and some key putts. She recorded a woeful five-bogey, one-birdie for 40 at the turn but shot steadily with four pars and a bogey coming ho me to hoist a long-awaited title. The 16-year-old from Inayawan, Cebu City, whose home club is Alta Vista finished with a five-over 76 for 213, twoclear off Duque’s 215 after a 74 in the tournament organized by the Women’s Golf Association of the Philippines. “It was a pretty rough start for me as putts wouldn’t go in. That’s the problem in the beginning as it affected me just a bit,” said Quintanilla, who received a big hug from daddy Gene on the 18th hole.

Duque pressed on impressively from the get go but couldn’t maintain her drive as she bogeyed three straight times from No. 14 to 16.

“I knew it was a huge task in the last two holes. I am still happy with the play this week and very excited to turn pro next week,” said the San Miguel Corp.backed Duque.

Melissa Lee (89-259) and Grace Caffyn (93-290) won Class A and B, respectively.

THE two league leaders, the Perpetual Help Junior Altas and the Mapua Red Robins, hope to keep a clean slate in their encounter with the Arellano Braves and defending champion Letran Squires, respectively, on Friday in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Season 99 Junior’s Basketball Tournament at the FilOil EcoOil Center in San Juan City.

Borja, Jericho Cristino, Wayne Valencia, Arzell Asuncion, Jamal Diaz, John Panelo, Jacob dela Cruz and RJ Bernaldez.

The Junior Altas are coming off a win last Wednesday against the San Beda Red Cubs (78-56) as they shoot for their 5th consecutive win.

The Junior Altas of coach Joph Cleopas and Red Robins of coach Yong Garcia both have an identical 4-0 win loss slates as they seek to continue their winning run towards the next round and Final Four.

Mapua and Season 98 champion Letran Squires face each other at 8 a.m., while the Las Piñas City squad takes on Arellano University at 2:30 p.m.

Amiel Acido, Mark Gojo Cruz, Lebron Daep, JD Pagulayan, Icee Callangan, Regie Ayon and Kelsey Baldoria are expected to lead the Junior Altas.

Help is also expected from the team’s strong backcourt of 6’6” Aries

“I told the boys to stay focused, stay hungry. No expectations yet, we are still working on it, but we vow to give our 100 percent in each game,” coach Cleopas said.

Meanwhile, the Red Robins are coming off a win over the JRU Light Bombers (72-57), led by Lawrence Mangubat, Sean Salvador, Nicolo Mulingtapang and Drie Gragasin.

On the other hand, the Squires’ desire to strengthen their position resulted in an 88-79 win against LPU-GenTri, banking on the performances of George Diamante and Moses Manalili, along with Jovel Baliling, Ric Golez and June Silorio.

In other games, the La Salle

Academy-

City at 12 noon, while

mitment to innovation and quality aligns perfectly with our vision to elevate Philippine basketball. This partnership promises exciting developments for PBA players and fans, and we are confident it will contribute significantly to the continued growth of the sport.”

Deepening its commitment to the PBA, ANTA continues its partnerships which began in the previous conference with four fan-favorite teams: Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, Magnolia Hotshots, and TNT Tropang Giga in the PBA and Marinerong Pilipino-San Beda in the PBA D-League. Through these collaborations, ANTA empowers athletes to strive for greater achievements on the court.

ANTA Philippines General Manager, JP Paglinawan, states, “Teaming up with the PBA gives us the opportunity to support these athletes perform at their best at the highest level of basketball locally. Partnering with the PBA comes at a perfect time when ANTA is growing at a very rapid pace across the country. Together, we look forward to further developing the future of both brands and more importantly, Philippine basketball.”

Greenhills Greenies face EACImmaculate Conception

Dasmariñas

the SSC-R Staglets fight the JRU Light Bombers in the final game at 4:30 p.m. Dennis Abrina

Shown here are (from left) Anton Asistio of Rain or Shine; Jo Francisco, PBA Marketing Head; Jireh Ibanes, Manager, Rain or Shine; Yeng Guiao, Rain or Shine coach; Willie Marcial, PBA Commissione; JP Paglinawan, General Manager, ANTA Philippines; Reena Del Mundo, Media Liaison, Magnolia; Mon Jose, Magnolia Assistant Coach; Yuri Escueta, Head Coach, Marinerong Pilipino-San Beda; and Jojo Lastimosa, TNT coach.

Filipino Jerwin Ancajas (right) and Japanese Takuma Inoue

Grace Quintanilla

Messi stars as Miami wins MLS opener

FORT LAUDERDALE—Lionel

Messi created both goals as Inter Miami made a winning start to the new Major League Soccer season with a 2-0 victory over Real Salt Lake on Wednesday.

The Argentine World Cup winner, who played the entire game, put aside any concerns about his early season fitness with an excellent performance for the bookmakers’ title favorites.

“He looked loose, fine and showed a lot of speed,” coach Gerardo Martino said of Messi, who missed the back end of last season for Miami with injuries and was also sidelined for part of the pre-season.

The other three members of Miami’s former Barcelona quartet, debutant Luis Suarez, midfielder Sergio Busquets and left-back Jordi Alba, all started in front of a capacity crowd.

Against a cautious Salt Lake side, Messi went close to opening the scoring in the 18th minute with a curling free-kick from 30 yards out which was headed off the line by Justen Glad. He then brought huge cheers from the crowd when, on the edge of the box, his route was blocked by a player down on the floor, but he chipped the ball over him and let loose a shot which was blocked.

But Miami got in front when Spaniard Sergio Busquets found Messi and the eight-times Ballon d’Or winner cleverly slipped the ball through to Finnish forward Robert Taylor, whose low shot beat RSL keeper Zac MacMath.

The goalkeeper should have kept the effort out but it was a goal which forced the visitors to open up after the interval and their more aggressive approach caused Inter some problems.

Cristian Arango blasted a halfchance high over the bar for Salt Lake and then, after Busquets sloppily gave the ball away, Andres Gomez burst goalwards but the Colombian winger fired wide. AFP

Yoyong Velez of Del Monte blasts out of the greenside bunker on No. 16

Del Monte grabs 6-point Seniors’ lead after a 150

CAGAYAN de Oro—Playing on its veritable home turf, Del Monte on Thursday took command of Seniors’ action in the 75th Philippine Airlines Interclub golf tournament by pooling 150 points built behind Yoyong Velez’ two-over-par 74 worth 52 points at the well-manicured Pueblo de Oro.

With the first day of skirmishes being just one hour away from their usual stomping ground, the Manolo Fortichbased bets served notice of their capability to take the limelight away from the expected Canlubang-Luisita rivalry a s Jun Maghamil tallied 51 and Raul Minoza counted with 49.

“We played really well here, despite Pueblo not being our real home course,” Velez said as Del Monte, which threw away the 45 of Arsenio Mondilla, took a six-point lead over the fancied Sugar Barons with the defending champion Luisitans sitting another shot back.

“We’re not really surprised that we played this way here,” Velez added. “What we want to do is sustain that kind of play going back to Del Monte for the next two days and take a sizeable lead going into the final round here (on Sunday).”

Action then goes to Del Monte in Bukidnon for the next two days and

non-playing Cangolf skipper Tony Olives and Luisita counterpart Jeric Hechanova said that they will stick to their pre-tournament plans and not mess up with their fielding.

“They had a good day,” Olives said of Del Monte. “We just didn’t have a perfect day.”

Canlubang, which was placed by the 49s of Pem Rosal and ex-pro Jessie Hernandez, will have the seasoned Abe Rosal anchoring its Day 2 team at the rolling layout inside the vast pineapple plantation south of here. The Sugar Barons counted either 47s of Rolly Viray or JP Reyes. “Yes, we will stick to our original plans,” Hechanova, after getting 51 points from Ferdie Barbosa and 47 from Rodel Mangulabnan, said. “This is good for golf here in Mindanao, good for the Interclub, that it’s not always a two-team race between Canlubang and Luisita. “In basketball, we will play the sec-

ond quarter (on Friday) and we won’t be tinkering with the lineup we originally plan to come out,” added Hechanova, who counted the 46 of Rafael Raymundo. “We will make the necessary adjustments (in fielding) after the second day.”

Manila Southwoods was 15 points back after a 135, even though the Carmona-based squad kept its two biggest guns—Jun Jun Plana and Jorge Gallen—in the freezer, with either one— or both—sure to come out for the second round and bring the club back in the thick of things.

Joseph Tambunting paced Southwoods with 46 points, Manfred Guangco accounted for 45 and Theody Pascual counted with 45. Michael Cheon’s 37 was thrown away.

The 75th staging of the PAL Interclub is supported by diamond sponsors Mastercard and Asian Journal.

Platinum sponsors include Airbus, Primax Broadcasting Network and Araw Hospitality while gold sponsors are Tanduay and Asia Brewery.

Joining the event as silver sponsors are ABS-CBN Global, Radio Mindanao Network and Philippine National Bank.

VISA is a minor sponsor while Must Glow is joining as a donor.

Woods’ son Charlie to play in PGA tournament pre-qualifier

15-year-old son of 15-time major champion Tiger Woods, will play in Thursday’s pre-qualifier for the US PGA Tour Cognizant Classic in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Charlie Woods will play at Lost Lake Golf Club in Hobe Sound, Florida, one of four prequalifying sites.

The top 25 players and those tied will advance to the Monday qualifier for next week’s PGA Tour event, which will be played February 29-March 3 at PGA National’s Champion Course.

The younger Woods is scheduled to tee off at 7:39 am (1239 GMT) on Thursday alongside Olin Browne Jr and Irish pro Ruaidhri McGee.

If Charlie Woods can make it through both stages of qualifying he would earn his first US PGA Tour start.

Tiger Woods was a 16-year-old amateur when he played his first US PGA Tour event at Riviera Country Club in 1992.

Tiger’s latest trip to Riviera was cut short last week when he withdrew after six holes of the second round of the Genesis Invitational with flu.

Charlie Woods has played alongside his superstar father in the last four editions of the PNC Championship exhibition tournament.

Last year he finished tied for 17th in the Boys 14-15 division of the Notah Begay III Junior Golf National Championship, where Tiger Woods caddied for him over all three rounds. AFP

More changes coming soon?

SOME enterprising fans of the men’s national football team, or formerly known as the Azkals, have been going out of their way in finding answers to the pressing question of whether the current coach will still call the shots in next month’s resumption of the World and Asian Cup qualifiers. The Philippine Football Federation has remained mum on this matter and as expected, is also not helping. It only adds more to the anxiety and concerns of fans, who are eagerly awaiting developments on the team.

But if The Designated Kit Man is made to believe, changes will be forthcoming soon in the team. Several sources have said that a new coach is coming to replace Hans Michael Weiss. In fact, this incoming coach is reportedly bringing with

him some of his people from his previous spell from another national team. The sources added, too, that his team will be bolstered by local officials, who will complement and complete his coaching staff.

According to the same sources, Weiss will not be completely out of Philippine football altogether, but he will be asked, instead, to handle one of the national youth teams.

As of the moment, Weiss still has a valid contract with the national men’s football team until the end of the year. Another source said an official announcement will be made in the next few days to clarify the status of the head coach.

But again, not until the PFF makes the official announcement then these pieces of information remain nothing but speculations.

The Designated Kit Man tried to reach out to Weiss, but the German coach remained tightlipped about his tenure. He, however, gave a short reply. “We will see a decision by February 29,” he replied.

I guess a little bit more to know the real score on this nagging issue.

Equally as anticipated is the composition of the

squad that will see in an away-and-home series against Iraq next month. As of now, there’s no official announcement yet on who will be called to join the national training pool.

Just like the status of the coach, the list of players coming back to the country or who are already here remains a matter of speculation, too. There were earlier reports that Santino Rublico will return to the team. The problem is, even if Rublico comes back, he can only play one game against Iraq. He has accumulated two yellow cards from his previous game, so he will serve an automatic one-game suspension.

Just like other reports, Rublico’s coming is yet to be confirmed. There were also rumors that the PFF has reached out to Sebastian Ramussem, Raphael Obermair, several current and prospective Azkals in the past few weeks, but there is no way for me to confirm. Just like the rest, I will have to wait for the PFF to make the official announcement.

On the upswing, the decision to let overseasbased players make the initial efforts in making themselves available for the national team is much welcome. Players, who have the potential to play for the national team are advised to come to the country first, try out and show what they are made of is intriguing and probably good in the long run. At least, on the bare minimum, there is the obvious and concrete manifestation of the desire to play for the national team, simply because they want to do

Bataan, South Cotabato, Valenzuela hurdle rivals

SOUTH Cotabato and Bataan posted contrasting victories and shared the early lead with Valenzuela in the 2024 MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) Preseason Invitational at the Lagao Gym in General Santos City. The South Cotabato Warriors, formerly the GenSan Warriors, nipped the Batangas City Embassy Chill Athletics, 81-79, while the Bataan Risers overpowered the Manila Stars, 106-79.

Valenzuela routed guest team GenSan Bulalakaw, 93-61 in the opener of the eight-team tournament being held in conjunction with GenSan’s Kalinangan Festival.

The Warriors drew firepower from Kyle Tolentino, who posted 21 points, 3 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 assists, and Christian Fajarito with 15 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists.

They were supported by Mark Cruz with 12 points and 5 assists and Enzo Joson with 10 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists in handing new coach Elvis Tolentino the victory.

Batangas got 17 points from Juneric Baloria, 15 points from Levi Hernandez, 11 points plus 8 rebounds from Cedrick Ablaza and 11 points plus 7 assists from MJ Dela Virgen.

Bataan, powered by homegrown talents Yves Sazon and Dante Paguio Jr. led by as far as 100-65 against Manila, which got clobbered off the boards, 72-46.

Sazon, who posted 20 points and 4 rebounds and Paguio, who tallied 16 points and 11 rebounds, were supported by Alex Ramos with 13 points and 7 rebounds, Dominick Vera with 12 points and Carl Bringas with 10 points.

MPBL Founder and CEO Manny Pacquiao saw action for Bulalakaw, composed of local stars, and came up with 19 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal.

Defending national champion Pampanga and Quezon City TODA Aksyon clash at 4 p.m. on Thursday. Other matches pit Batangas against Manila at 6 p.m. and Bataan against South Cotabato at 8 p.m.

so and not for anything else. This will also help in weeding out those “pabebe” Azkals wannabes, who think that playing for the three stars and the sun is the last resort in their careers.

We can’t blame them actually, considering the state of football in the country, where it is desperate to gain popularity and support from Filipinos, who are so crazy with basketball and volleyball. Compared to other countries, to say football is among the top 5 sports in the Philippines is such a stretch. Please join us this Sunday, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. for another episode of Larong Pilipino sa DZME. Updates on the Men’s National Basketball team’s preparation for the third window of the Olympic qualifiers, boxer Jerwin Ancajas, Samantha Bruce’s campaign in the Ladies European Tour, and cycling’s Go for Gold will be discussed. Our resident Maricon, Ambut Nabus, will also join us via zoom.

On a personal note, I would like to greet our Storm and Gambit, the happiest of birthdays! May you both continue to grow to be loving, responsible and good citizens of our country and that you will never want for love and care from our family. Stay safe. Stay happy peeps!

For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_cabatbat@yahoo.com or follow his account at Twitter: @erelcabatbat

Tiger Woods and Charlie Woods of the United States during the nal round of the PNC Championship at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club in Orlando, Florida. AFP

Kyle Tolentino shines for South Cotabato in 2024 MPBL Preseason Invitational.

Redefining success beyond accolades for acclaimed film

ONCE a silent underdog, Firefly has soared to new heights, conquering Filipino audiences and now achieving international acclaim.

In a recent interview with Manila Standard Entertainment, Nessa Valdellon of GMA Films delved into the impact of Firefly beyond its triumph in clinching the Best Picture award at the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) and the inaugural Manila International

Los Angeles early this month.

Valdellon, serving as a producer, highlighted how Firefly – written by Angeli Atienza and helmed by Zig Dulay, featuring Alessandra De Rossi and the young talent Euwenn Mikaell played a pivotal role in reaffirming GMA Films’ reputation as a film outfit that produces compelling stories.

Very

see their support for the film. So many people were touched. Some people even felt emotionally healed. We achieved more than just what was in the film, it was the connection the film created, not just the feeling but the experience they wanted to share with others after watching the film,” said Dulay.

Film Festival (MIFF) held in

“As a producer, Firefly truly marked a milestone for GMA Pictures. It reinstated our reputation as a studio dedicated to crafting credible, captivating narratives with high production value, reminiscent of our past successes like Jose Rizal and , both consecutive Best Picture winners at the MMFF in 1998 and 1999. It’s about returning our brand to its roots, Films,” Valdellon remarked.

The film executive was excited to share that they are brewing a few projects they want to share with their audience, “compelling stories that will start a

Muro Ami and that’s what Firefly accomplished for GMA stories conversation.”

Miss Universe Philippines 2024 heats up

FIFTY-FIVE official delegates aspiring to succeed Michelle Dee for the title of Miss Universe Philippines 2024, were presented to the press at the Grand Ballroom of Hilton Manila, in Newport Blvd., Pasay, on Sunday.

As expected, due to the no-agelimit policy, the veterans and returning queens shone bright with their poise and elegance, commanding attention on the stage in their evening gowns and displaying their readiness to take the crown. Now considered as frontrunners are the likes of Ahtisa Manalo, Kris Tiffany Janson, Christi Lynn McGarry, Victoria Velasquez Vincent, and Stacey Gabriel Manalo, Miss International 2018 first runner-up, only 26, was born to a Fil-Spanish mother and a FinnishSwedish father from Candelaria, Quezon. An accountancy graduate, she is an entrepreneur. She works with the Alon Akademie, an organization that empowers children to shape their world, focusing on enriching their social skills and Entrepreneurial mindset. Manalo is also an LGBTQ rights advocate.

Janson, Miss Intercontinental 2014 2nd runner-up, now 34, a finance analyst and public servant, working as protocol officer of the Office of the Mayor of Cebu. She said that she would use her as a platform for her story, and as a role model to inspire older women to continue chasing their dreams.

Fil-Am McGarry, 34, first runnerup in Miss Intercontinental 2015, is an advocate of environmental sustainability. She used to write articles on issues of feminism, gender equality, the LGBTQIA+ community, and mental health among others.

Fil-Irish Vincent, Miss Universe Philippines-Charity 2021, now 28-year-old, based in New Zealand,

“Making a film is difficult, it involves time, effort, and money. So we were striving to fulfill its purpose. We felt the love of the people. It’s not just an achievement, it’s an inspiration to make another film. Our greatest achievement was having many people watch and share their experience with others,” Dulay reiterated.

“We have a lot of secret projects. We have a lot in the pipeline. Right now we are working with National Artist Ricky Lee for another MMFF project. We’re also working with film producer Enrico Santos on one of our projects,” Valdellon revealed. For Atienza, the film’s screenwriter, the most gratifying aspect of doing the film

was witnessing the discussions it sparked on social media platforms. She found validation in the emotional responses and reflections from viewers, indicating that the film had successfully achieved its intended impact.

As for De Rossi, she was grateful for the support of the audience and their appreciation for the unique flavor the film brought to them.

“They were talking about what they felt about the film, their responses were so emotional and strong. Just from that alone, we felt rewarded, like our fatigue had been lifted. It was heartening to see their analysis of the film through their social media posts, some even included videos. And they tagged us. Just from that, we felt like we had fulfilled the film’s purpose, to elicit reactions from people,” the screenwriter reacted.

“As an actor, it’s heartwarming that for someone who always has a partner in the film and has a love angle, people will still watch you even if it’s not the genre you usually offer, that’s incredibly fulfilling for us,” the actress said.

Following its Best Picture win at MIFF, the Firefly team was awarded a $200,000 co-producing package by Birns and Sawyer for the production of a US-based feature film.

Atienza also mentioned that it wasn’t easy to fork out money from audiences’ own pockets to watch

“To pay to watch a movie and then be satisfied afterward, it’s an honor for us, so we are grateful to everyone who watched,” Atienza continued. For the film director, more than awards, what mattered to him was the connection the film made with the audience.

their the film. satisfied for we Atienza what the happened with second so to

The 49th MMFF Best Picture awardee, ‘Firefly’ narrates a moving story about family, dreams, and bravery, as the young Tonton, portrayed by MMFF Best Child Performer Euwenn Mikaell, embarks on a journey to find the mystical island of fireflies based on his mother’s bedtime stories.

The film also stars Dingdong Dantes, Epy Quizon, Ysabel Ortega, Miguel Tanfelix, Cherry Pie Picache, Yayo Aguila, Kokoy de Santos, and Max Collins

“That’s what Firefly Even before winning at the MMFF, on our first and second days in theaters, we received numerous personal messages, it felt so good to

Pageant Concept Eton Concepcion

worked as a technical volunteer with the in-house architect of Habitat for Humanity, an organization that works toward bringing low-cost and sustainable housing for poor Filipino communities.

Gabriel, Bb. Pilipinas 2022 second runner-up, also 26, is an actor and communication arts student at the De La Salle University. She is an advocate for climate action and women’s rights. The overseas-based beauties also made waves during the press presentation which include Christina Chalk, Kayla Jean Carter, and Kymberlee Street.

Chalk, 30, a Filipino-Scottish beauty, Face of Scotland 2009 and first runner-up in Miss Universe Great Britain 2021. She is a Pharmacology graduate and the founder of Self Esteem Queens, a powerful network for women that aims to connect, educate, and support ambitious women around the world.

Carter, 28, Fil-American, works as a model and bartender. Studied at the University of North Florida, Carter first gained attention in Netflix’s reality-dating show “Too Hot to Handle Season 2.”

Street, 26, an entrepreneur, is a semi-finalist in Mis Universe Australia 2022. She is the founder of Defence Skincare, a place to prepare, protect and empower aspiring women.

Also making a statement is Selena Alexis Antonio-Reyes, the oldest at 38. Coming back after competing in Bb. Pilipinas 2010, Reyes, a preschool educator, and a fitness enthusiast, won Century Tuna Ageless Superbod 2022. A veteran of international marathon events, Reyes is campaigning on a platform of overall wellness, on the importance of physical well-being and mental health.

Other standouts during the press presentation were Pampanga, Baguio, Iloilo, Laguna, Bacolod, San Pablo, Laguna, Lucban, Albay, United Kingdom, Australia, Angeles, Cavite, Kananga and Bulacan.

“With an endless barrage of mudslinging in the news, wars raging in different parts of the world, neverending toxicity on social media, and in a very divided universe, the song ‘What the World Needs Now is Love’ seems quite [appropriate for] the times we live in,” MUPH said in a statement in choosing the 2024 edition’s theme “Love for All.”

The

vaultboy in Manila in June for one-night-only show

AMERICAN singer-songwriter and hitmaker vaultboy is coming to Manila for the first time ever on June 13 at the Podium Hall.

Presented by Eventim Live Asia and Wilbros Live, tickets go on sale today at 12:00 noon via SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets.

vaultboy is a singer-songwriter from Jacksonville, Florida who first began experimenting with music during high school and has been perfecting and growing his craft ever since. His chosen name pays homage to his love of video games, specifically the Fallout series.

Inspired by the likes of Alexander 23, Lauv, and Blackbear, vaultboy is a creative driven by conversational lyricism and the human condition. Since his debut single release in May 2021, “everything sucks” has garnered over 250 million streams across all platforms, over 700k Shazams worldwide, and hit and held the Spotify Global Viral Chart #1 spot for two weeks as well as hitting #1 on QQ music’s western chart in China.

From left: Pageant veterans Victoria Velasquez Vincent, Christi Lynn McGarry, Ahtisa Manalo, Kriss Tiffany Janson, and Stacey Gabriel are frontrunners for the MUPH 2024 crown

From left: MIFF awardees for Best Screenplay Angeli Atienza, Best Director Zig Dulay, Best Supporting Actress Alessandra De Rossi, and ‘Firefly’ producer Nessa Valdellon

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

Beauty brand celebrates CNY, HQ anniversary in Angeles

By Nickie Wang

BEAUTÉDERM’S founder and president, Rhea Anicoche Tan, recently hosted a Chinese New Year gathering at the Beautéderm Headquarters in

Angeles City, joined by celebrities such as Sylvia Sanchez, Sam Milby, Carlo Aquino, Jillian Vicencio, and Kimson Tan, among others.

Tan took the opportunity to impart her insights on achieving success, coinciding with the

AS A huge Korean drama fan, I’ve always been drawn to the trope of pretend or contract marriages blossoming into genuine love stories between main characters.

Random Talk

Kate

Adajar

There’s something kilig-inducing from watching two individuals explore the challenges of a relationship, initially rooted in convenience, only to discover deep emotions for each other along the way. Little did I know, reality often imitates the stories I’ve enjoyed onscreen. In the heartwarming journey of American lawyer-turned-author and content creator, Farah Naz Rishi, the line between fiction and reality blurs as she unveils her tale of a marriage of convenience evolving into a real love story with her best friend.

In a viral TikTok video and a personal interview with her, Rishi shared the intimate details of her unconventional path to marital bliss.

Rishi’s narrative unfolds against a backdrop of personal upheaval, marked by the sad reality of her mother’s

C4 LIFE

the first anniversary of her sevenstory building, which is now a landmark in the 1st class highly

“Be consistent. It’s not easy to start a business, but you have to show up and be consistent. Always listen to your gut and to people who genuinely love and support you. Don’t rush. It takes time,” she added.

When asked about her own definition of success, she told the media, “When you see that

the community you’re supporting thrives, I count that as personal success.”

The Beautéderm topgun also gave the celebrity ambassadors and guests a building tour. Her cafe offers premium coffee, drinks, and food items; BeautéHaus provides beauty services and treatments; and A-List Avenue sells authentic high-end brands and designer labels.

Tan’s beauty companies Beautéderm and BlancPro continue to dominate the market and plan to develop more safe and effective products for the skincare junkies.

The skincare executive is also nominated at the 5th VP Choice Awards for Beauty Cosmetic Brand of the Year. Voting will start on March 5 to April 5. For more updates, visit the social media pages of Beautéderm, BlancPro, BeautéHaus, Beauté Beanery, and A-List Avenue. Their skincare products are also available on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok.

Farah

terminal illness and the loss of her father and brother. Faced with her mother’s sincere desire to see her settled, Rishi boldly took on an unexpected proposition – a marriage of convenience with her longtime confidante and best friend.

“My mom at the time was extremely sick. She wanted to make sure that I was settled down and married to somebody that we both loved and trusted,” Rishi shared, jokingly referring to her mom’s typical South Asian ways.

“My mom was like, ‘Oh, wouldn’t it be great if you ended up marrying your best friend of ten or so years?’

And to my shock, he agreed.”

In the spirit of transparency, Rishi’s best friend confessed to having had feelings for her for the past decade.

Naz Rishi delves into her unconventional love story in her upcoming book, ‘Sorry For The Inconvenience: A Memoir’

Amidst the mundanity of everyday life, after they got married in a Muslim wedding ceremony and started living together, Rishi found herself gradually peeling the layers of her relationship with her best friend turned

husband. Simple gestures and acts of care assumed newfound meaning, brewing feelings inside of her.

“He started taking his role as husband of convenience far more seriously than he ever needed to. And it started to make me feel things,” she reminisced.

A treasured memory is her husband’s love language of service. “If I ever wanted tea and I started to get up to make myself some, he would say, ‘No, no, no, please sit down. Can I make you some tea?’” Rishi recounted with a smile.

In those tender moments, steeped in warmth and familiarity, Rishi found appreciation for her husband’s selfless gestures. “As if I would be doing him a favor by letting him make me tea,” she added, looking deeply amazed.

Another moment that stands out in Rishi’s memory – a humble gift that encapsulated a decadelong journey of friendship and unspoken affection. “He hands me this tiny little package – it’s a pencil wrapped in a little bow,” she recalled.

At that moment, amidst the grief of her first birthday without her family, Rishi found that her husband kept the pencil he was supposed to give her a decade ago while working on a class project but did not dare to do so.

things

“I think it was just that silly little pencil that made me finally realize just how much rich history there is between us and just how beautiful a steady and warm love is, so much so that I just didn’t ever want to live without it.” That was the moment she realized that began as a pragmatic arrangement soon blossomed into a journey discovery and emotional awakening.

awakening.

“Life being married to your best friend feels calmer, steadier, and filled with laughter,” Rishi told me, highlighting how companionship and shared history can transform hearts. “It might be cliché to say it’s the best, but clichés are clichés for a reason, and it truly is the best.”

In the quiet intimacy of shared laughter and whispered confessions, Rishi found not only a husband but a soulmate. When I asked what her biggest takeaway is from being in a marriage of convenience, Rishi replied, “If you treat your partner as your best friend—the person you share your secrets with, the person you grow with, the person you’re inspired by— you’ll have a steady foundation for the rest of your life.” She also said, “The Bollywood movie Kuch Kuch Hota Hai put it best: love is, simply put, friendship.”

The brand’s celebration was graced by celebrities Sylvia Sanchez, Sam Milby, Carlo Aquino, Jillian Vicencio, Kimson Tan, and many more

Beauty brand Beautéderm celebrated the Lunar New Year alongside its first anniversary