Manila Standard - 2024 March 23 - Saturday

Marcos: Gov’t to ensure Teves faces justice in PH

Deportation process starts as DFA cancels passport

By Rey Requejo

PRESIDENT Marcos on Friday vowed to bring back to the country former Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr., a designated terrorist and the alleged mastermind in the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo.

“I assure the Filipino people that we will spare no effort in ensuring that justice will prevail in this case. Rest assured that the government will take all necessary actions to bring him back to the country so he

By Alena Mae S. Flores

CONSUMERS can expect a bigtime oil price hike next week of as much as P2.10 per liter to reflect the movement of prices in the world market.

The Department of Energy (DOE) confirmed the impending oil price increase based on the four-day trading of Mean of Platts Singapore, the benchmark for oil importers.

Gasoline is forecasted to increase by P1.90 to P2.10, diesel by P1.35 to P1.50 per liter, and kerosene by P1.40 to P1.50 per liter.

"Friday trading would give the final estimates," DOE director for the oil industry management bureau Rodela Romero said. Romero attributed the increase in pump prices to several factors.

PORTIONS of the protected Chocolate Hills were carved to build the controversial Captain's Peak Resort, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources said.

“What I saw yesterday was that the project’s developer carved several hills to design and execute this project,”

DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga said.

The DENR chief visited the resort in Bohol on Thursday amid an ongoing investigation into the establishment.

“It is very obvious that some hills were carved to execute their design... The hills should not be touched. That really can't be done,” she added.

PRESIDENT Marcos Jr. directed the Philippine Army to be a “multi-mission-ready and cross-domain capable” force under a “Bagong Pilipinas” to thwart emerging threats and amid external defense concerns.

During the Army's 127th anniversary

MDT a great deterrent, says US ambassador

at Camp O’Donnell in Tarlac City on Friday, Mr. Marcos said his administration is committed to boosting the Army's morale, efficiency, and responsiveness through capacity-building initiatives, rigorous training and education activities.

“Not only has the organization been successful in its internal security operations, but it also exerted efforts in shifting to external defense,” he said in a speech delivered by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.

Carlson said.

TAIPEI has rejected China's warning that it would be "dangerous" to tinker with its Taiwan issue amid its maritime dispute with the Philippines over some parts of the West Philippine Sea.

The Taiwan Economic and Cooperation Office yesterday sent a copy of its newsletter which contained its “response to false claims by the Embassy of the People's Republic of China.”

“TECO in the Philippines solemnly reiterates that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is a modern democratic country that actively defends its democratic system

AID CARAVAN. Speaker Martin Romualdez (2nd from left) leads the distribution of various assistance from different government agencies during the opening of the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair at Caraga State University Gymnasium Friday morning. He is joined by Tingog Partylist Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez (left), Caraga Rep. Jose Aquino II (2nd from right) and Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. (right). Ver Noveno

NO MORE PLACE TO HIDE. A screengrab of a drone footage released by the National Bureau of Investigation shows former Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. (in white shirt) as he was being arrested while playing golf in Dili, Timor Leste Thursday afternoon. Inset photo shows NBI Director Medardo De Lemos, along with NBI International Operations Division chief Filipinas Astrero and their operatives, in a meeting with Timor Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta ahead of Teves' arrest. Photo and drone footage released by the NBI

Gov’t urges use of ‘tabo’ as dam water levels drop

METRO Manila residents, particularly those who live in villages and condominiums, were urged to use “tabo” as part of conservation efforts as the level of water continues to drop in Luzon dams.

In a memorandum, National Water Resources Board (NWRB) executive director Ricky Arzadon called on all village heads and condominium property managers to immediately institute water conservation efforts.

Meanwhile, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma called on private employers to provide their workers with free and adequate drinking water and rest breaks to mitigate the effects of heat stress in the workplace.

‘Place NCR under calamity state due to traffic crisis’

WITH an estimated P3.5-billion daily economic losses incurred from traffic, the Management Association of the Philippines through its Transportation and Infrastructure Committee said Metro Manila should be placed under a “state of calamity.”

Committee chair Eduardo Yap gave this assessment during a recent House committee hearing on Metro Manila Development.

He said the magnitude of the economic damage due to traffic exceeds the threshold for declaring a state of calamity, which typically stands at P1 billion.

Yap also recommended that President Marcos may exercise his emergency powers to implement relief measures to address the ongoing crisis.

Manila Rep. Rolando Valeriano presided over the March 20 hearing, which discussed the holistic plan of MAP to alleviate the perennial traffic issue.

Under this proposal, a traffic czar would be tasked to spearhead a comprehensive program aimed at decongesting Metro Manila.

The program comprises short, medium, and long-term measures to provide immediate relief for motorists and ensure long-term sustainability through infrastructural improvements, particularly in mass public transportation.

Included in the proposal is the adoption of private Electric Vehicles (EVs) to reduce air pollution.

Yap, however, noted that the EDSA Busway must be used exclusively by public buses because allowing private vehicles, including EVs, on it would hinder its efficiency as a public conveyance facility.

Instead, Yap suggested incentivizing private EVs by exempting them from road congestion charges once a travel-demand management system is established on congested private car lanes, such as EDSA.

“The ideal time to institute this travel-demand-regulating measure is when the Busway and the MRT3 have been privatized and upgraded to global standards of efficiency,” MAP said in a statement.

Taiwan...

From A1 and respects human rights and the rule of law. Neither democratic Taiwan nor autocratic People’s Republic of China is subordinate to the other,” it said.

“The Chinese Communist Party regime has never governed Taiwan, and Taiwan is not a part of the PRC. No distorted narrative regarding Taiwan’s sovereign status can change the status quo across the Taiwan Strait or internationally recognized objective facts.”

The Chinese Embassy in Manila earlier said the Taiwan question “is not and should never become an issue between China and the Philippines."

It said its issue with the self-governing island “is purely an internal affair and does not brook any external interference.”

China had raised alarm after the United States, Manila’s treaty ally, announced plans to build a second port on Batanes Island, just 200 kilometers away from Taiwan’s southern end across the Taiwan Strait.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines also announced plans to hold Balikatan military exercises with the US and other allied troops in the country’s northernmost province.

Laguesma also recommended the use of temperature-appropriate uniforms and personal protective equipment and establishing procedures to address heat-related emergencies.

Arzadon, for his part, advised property managers to postpone maintenance work that requires replacing water in their swimming pools.

He also encouraged the use of pails and dippers in washing cars, cleaning driveways, watering lawns, and other similar

activities.

The board had earlier announced it will slash water allocation for Metro Manila to 48 cubic meters (cms) per second from 50 cms starting mid-April as a mitigation measure.

The measures are intended to prevent the water level in Angat Dam to drop to 180 meters or lower which could result in rationing.

As this developed, employers were also urged, with the concurrence of workers, to adopt flexible work arrangements that allow work-hour adjustments while maintaining the total number of work hours within the day or week until the weather condition has improved.

Rio Araja and Vito Barcelo

‘Chinese ship tried to block PH scientists’

FILIPINO scientists completed a marine research mission despite “dangerous maneuvers” by a Chinese vessel which attempted to block their boat from reaching a reef in the West Philippine Sea.

Philippine Coast Guard spokesman Commodore Jay Tarriela said the incident happened Thursday near Sandy Cay reef, several kilometers from the Philippine-held Pag-asa island in the contested Spratly Islands, where the two countries have repeatedly clashed in recent months. He said the scientists were on a boat belonging to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources which was taking them to the reef when a China Coast Guard vessel crossed its path, coming as close as 100 meters (330 feet) to the boat.

Tarriela said the China Coast Guard vessel sounded a siren for morethan 30 minutes to draw the attention of "Chinese maritime militia" boats in the area. The China Coast Guard however said Thursday that 34 Filipinos had "illegally" landed on the reef it calls Tiexian Jiao.

Big-time...

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"Oil edges higher driven by speculation surrounding the impact of Ukraine's recent assaults on Russian big 3 refineries; the reduction of Iraq crude exports; the big draw from US crude and gasolinestockpiles and the stronger demand and economic growth of US and China," she said.

On March 12, 2024, the oil companies

MDT...

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"The gray zone tactics are our concern but that’s not anything that we are not able to address as we work together. Remember, our militaries work together day in day out every single day, 24/7, 365 a year," she added.

She cited the strong cooperation between Manila and Washington.

Chinese "law enforcement officers" landed there, where they "investigated and handled (the situation)," China Coast Guard spokesperson Gan Yu said in a statement.

"That's another lie coming from the Chinese coast guard," Tarriela said on Friday.

“Pag-asa Island generates a territorial sea of 12 nautical miles. This means we have sovereignty over these waters. China’s mere presence there, disrupting our research which we are lawfully conducting, is a violation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Seas (UNCLOS),” he said.

Tarriela said the scientific team spent four hours at two reefs and was able to complete its mission, despite the presence of Chinese vessels and a Chinese military helicopter circling overhead.

The scientists who conducted the research were from the University of the Philippines-Institute of Biology, BFAR, and the Department ofAgriculture-National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI), he said. Vince Lopez with AFP

implemented a per liter rollback of P0.50, P0.25 and P0.30 for gasoline, diesel, and kerosene, respectively.

Year-to-date adjustment of gasoline and diesel stands at a net increase of P5.45 per liter and P3.80 per liter.

On the other hand, the net decrease in kerosene prices is P0.25 per liter.

Gasoline sells from P55.40 to P80.50 per liter, diesel from P52.65 to P82.86 per liter, and kerosene from P71.79 to P83.18 per liter at the National Capital Region as of March 19 to 25, 2024 monitoring.

Marcos:...

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While the Philippines and Timor Leste do not have an extradition treaty, which is an agreement between governments that will allow the parties to request the repatriation of an individual who is accused of a crime.

The DOJ earlier said it will be "a matter of diplomacy" to have Teves deported even without an extradition treaty with East Timor.

DOJ Assistant Secretary Jose Dominic Clavano IV said National Bureau of Investigation Director Medardo De Lemos is in Timor Leste to escort Teves back to the Philippines.

The Philippine team earlier coordinated with Timor Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta for the arrest of Teves.

“It’s fast but the timing on that will be based on the Timor Leste government. Teves will be in the Philippines in a matter of days,” Clavano said.

“Deportation is a fast process since Teves is already an undesirable alien due to the cancellation of passport and is now undocumented which means he is already in violation of Timor Leste immigration laws,” he added.

Degamo's widow described Teves'

arrest as “an answered prayer."

“We prayed for so long and waited for this day to come. Praise God that he has been arrested. We are really happy about this development,” Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo said in a television interview.

“I think it would be enough for us to be able to see him in jail and once and for all prove that jail is for everyone. It is not only for the poor, the deprived, the people who are not connected,” she added.

Clavano said Teves may still be extradited even with the absence of a treaty.

“The Philippines and Timor Leste have no extradition treaty. However, there may be a way to still request for extradition due to UNTOC (United Nations Convention on Transnational Organized Crime),” hesaid. “An extradition request can still be sought but it will take a bit of documentation.”

He said the Timor Leste government has twice denied the asylum request of Teves as he assured there is no security risk to the return of the former lawmaker.

Teves is facing charges of 10 counts of murder, 12 counts of frustrated murder, and four counts of attempted murder before the Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 51 over the March 4, 2023 shootings in Pamplona, Negros Oriental where 10 persons were killed, including Gov. Degamo.

Baby bust? Study warns global fertility rate to keep falling #ANONGBALITA?

THE population of almost every country will be shrinking by the end of the century, a major study said, warning that baby booms in developing nations and busts in rich ones will drive massive social change. The fertility rate in half of all nations is already too low tomaintain their population size, an international team of hundreds of researchers reported in The Lancet. Using a huge amount of global data on births, deaths and what drivesfertility, the researchers tried to forecast the future for the world's population.

By 2050, the population of three quarters of all countries will be shrinking, according to the study by the USbased Institute For Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME).

At the end of the century, that will be true for 97 percent—or 198 out of 204 countries and territories, the researchers projected. Only Samoa, Somalia, Tonga, Niger, Chad and Tajikistan are expected to have fertility rates exceeding the replacement level of 2.1 births per fe-

male in 2100, the study estimated. During this century, fertility rates will continue to increase in developing countries, particularly those in subSaharan Africa, even as they tumble in wealthier, ageing nations.

"The world will be simultaneously tackling a 'baby boom' in some countries and a 'baby bust' in others," senior study author Stein Emil Vollset of the IHME said in a statement.

"We are facing staggering social change through the 21st century," he said in a statement.

IHME researcher Natalia Bhattacharjee said the "implications are immense."

However, World Health Organization experts urged caution for the projections. They pointed out several limitations of the models, particularly a lack of data from many developing nations.

Communication about the figures "should not be sensationalized, but nuanced, balancing between gloom and optimism," the WHO experts wrote in The Lancet. AFP

Surgeons transplant pig kidney to live patient in world first

US surgeons have successfully transplanted a genetically modified pig kidney into a living patient for the first time, the hospital said Thursday, a procedure that could help address the chronic shortage of donor organs.

used for the transplant was provided by a Massachusetts biotech company called eGenesis and had been genetically-edited to remove harmful pig genes and add certain human genes.

‘Multi-mission-ready...

From A1

"I don't want to get into hypotheticals. It's not as if somehow you trip a wire, and it’s automatically invoked," Carlson said.

"These are negotiations, these are discussions that our countries, our leadership, our militaries have day in day out," she added.

"We are more capable of addressing these threats as they arise," she said. Carlson, however, declined to answer a hypothetical question on whether an armed attack is needed to trigger the MDT.

“As we march onward to the Bagong Pilipinas that we aspire for, we need to transform our Army into a multi-mission-ready and cross-domain capable force that can effectively thwart emerging threats to our country’s stability and sovereignty,” the President added.

Mr. Marcos urged Army personnel to take into account the lessons and the best practices they have learned from joint operations, as well astheir engagements with other major services of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and foreign defense counterparts.

Marcos also underscored the importance of improving the Army's cybersecurity capabilities to keep up with the rapid technological advancements and help maintain the country's security and stability.

He likewise acknowledged the Army's important role in maintaining peace and order in the country.

“Equally noteworthy are your peacetime endeavors, which put you at the forefront of rescue and recovery missions aimed at ensuring the safety of our citizens. Our soldiers have become a reliable and calming presence amidst the loss and destruction that come in the wake of disasters and calamities,” he added.

This year’s anniversary celebration carried the theme, “Matatag na Hukbong Katihan para sa Bagong Pilipinas.”

‘Parts...

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The Department of Tourism said it is pushing for its inclusion in the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) to offer recommendations on safeguarding the Philippines' protected areas, particularly those in tourist destinations like Bohol. This move followed a meeting be-

tween Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado.

In a joint statement, heads of the DENR, DILG, and DOT said the recent issue at the Chocolate Hills highlights the importance of responsible development in protected areas, emphasizing the delicate balance between economic development, sustainable livelihood, and environmental conservation.

The four-hour operation was carried out on Saturday on a 62-year-old man suffering from end-stage kidney disease, Massachusetts General Hospital said. "The procedure marks a major milestone in the quest to provide more readily available organs to patients," the hospital known as Mass General, or MGH, said in a statement.

Organ shortages are a chronic problem around the world and the Boston hospital said there are more than 1,400 patients on the waiting list for a kidney transplant at MGH alone.

"Our hope is that this transplant approach will offer a lifeline to millions of patients worldwide who are suffering from kidney failure," said Dr. Tatsuo Kawai, a member of the team which carried out the ground-breaking operation.

The hospital said the pig kidney

"This represents a new frontier in medicine and demonstrates the potential of genome engineering to change the lives of millions of patients globally suffering from kidney failure," said Mike Curtis, the chief executive officer of eGenesis.

The hospital said the patient, Richard Slayman of Weymouth, Massachusetts, "is recovering well at MGH and is expected to be discharged soon." He will be on a regimen of immunosuppressive drugs to ward off rejection of the pig kidney.

Slayman, who suffers from Type 2 diabetes and hypertension, had received a transplant of a human kidney in 2018, but it began to fail five years later and he has been on dialysis. Slayman said he agreed to the pig kidney transplant as "not only as a way to help me, but a way to provide hope for the thousands of people who need a transplant to survive." AFP

Lower test scores? Baka kulang sa pork and chicken yan

STUDENTS from countries with higher pork and chicken prices tend to have lower test scores, Senator Cynthia Villar said, citing a study of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development-Programme for International Student Assessment. She said pork and chicken are integral components of the Filipino dietto guarantee a balanced intake of nutrients. "It is estimated that 52 percent of our protein consumption comes frompork and chicken, and this is projected to grow even higher to 58 percent in 2030,” the senator said.

Due to this, high meat prices could lead to protein deficiency and contribute to malnutrition, and may even affect learning outcomes.

Villar sponsored a bill seeking to strengthen the livestock, poultryand dairy industry that accounted for over a quarter of the agricultural sector’s output in 2023.

"It stimulates economic growth, especially in rural areas and provides livelihood opportunities to more than 2.8 million livestock and poultry farmers," she said.

Macon Ramos-Araneta

“The preservation of our natural heritage is paramount, and therefore, harnessing the economic benefits of our nation’s resources must be tempered with the duty to uphold the integrity of our protected areas today and for generations yet to come,” Yulo-Loyzaga, Frasco and Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos said. “Achieving this starts with identifying the gaps in historical policies and practices and developing a comprehensive and balanced approach at both national and local levels of government. This includes strengthening regulations and monitoring mechanisms, rationalizing land use classification, and enforcing evidence-informed environmental protection according to global environmental standards, while also considering the communities’ needs for livelihood and employment.”

Othel Campos and Rio Araja

Face masks not required amid pertussis spate in Quezon City

LOCAL health authorities have ruled out the need to require the wearing of face masks despite the outbreak of whooping cough or pertussis in Quezon City.

“Hindi naman po necessary na mandatory ang pagsusuot ng face mask, lalung-lalo na kung wala naman kayo sintomas (It is not mandatory to wear face masks, especially if you don’t have the symptoms), said Dr. Rolando Cruz, officer-in-charge of the Quezon City Epidemiology and Surveillance Division.

In an interview with GMA News, Cruz advised adults who have symptoms to wear face masks at home and when going outside, more so in the presence of the children who have yet to be vaccinated against the disease.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte has declared a pertussis outbreak in the city after 23 cases were reported as of March 20.

Pertussis is a contagious lung disease by a bacteria called Bordetella pertussis, according to the local Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Four babies less than six months old have reportedly died due to the infection.

Cruz warned against exposing the babies to crowded areas or near infection persons.

He added that adults may also get infected with pertussis but will only have minor symptoms if they have already been vaccinated.

For the Lent, over 1,000 PUVs get special permits

By Rio N. Araja

THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has approved temporary special permits for 1,021 public utility vehicles (PUVs) to ensure adequate rides for the public during the Holy Week. The privilege however, ends on Apr. 14.

In anticipation of the Lenten exodus to the provinces, Land Transportation Office (LTO) chief Vi or Mendoza II ordered all regional directors and other officials to start implementing road security measures in their respective areas of responsibility

“The LTFRB issues special permits during special occasions, including Holy Week, to maximize

US, PH earmark P1.15b to eradicate tuberculosis

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Philippines and the United States have allotted a total of P1.15 billion to help fight tuberculosis as 737,000 new TB cases were reported in 2022 alone in the Philippines.

The United States government through and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Department of Health (DOH) will provide an additional funding of P1.15 billion to bankroll the intensified efforts to fight tuberculosis, such as such as early screening; utilizing advanced technologies in testing and enhancing the ability of health advocates to find cases and support survivors.

The infusion of fresh funds will also increase the use of TB preventive treatment as well as integrate TB screening

with the testing of other lung diseases, HIV, and diabetes.

“These efforts will help screen at least a million Filipinos for TB and ensure proper treatment of those afflicted with the disease,” the US Embassy in Manila said in a statement.

USAID Deputy Administrator for Management and Resources Paloma Adams-Allen and DOH Undersecretary Lilibeth David led the ceremonial signing of the partnership at the TB Active Case Finding Summit in Manila on March 21.

US’ additional funding consists of P550 million from USAID and from private sector partners for the Support Wide-scale Interventions To Find TB (SWIF-TB) initiative, as well as a matching commitment by DOH worth P605 million.

the operations of PUVs as the influx of passengers travelling to their home provinces is expected to increase before, during, and after the Holy Week,” LTFRB chief Teofilo Guadiz III said.

“This is also to ensure safe and secured travel for our Filipino commuters,” he added.

In collaboration with the LTO, the

LTFRB will inspect PUVs at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) on Mar. 25, ahead of the Holy Week break, under the Oplan BantayBiyahe Semana Santa. Guadiz said the inspection aims to check if there are help desks set up in the terminals and ensure the roadworthiness of the PUVs. Such necessary precautionary steps are implemented in anticipation of the surge of passengers during the Lenten season.

“We are on alert, including all our regional offices, and that there will be standby security and safety measures within their regions. So, we have deployed LTFRB personnel for public assistance to our passengers,” LTFRB spokesperson Celine Pialago said.

Danny Pata

Global firm rolls out ‘Take Care of the Water’ drive in PH

A GLOBAL business conglomerate has announced the launch of a water conservation campaign in the Philippines in conjunction with the international observance of World Water Day 2024.

“With a firm commitment to sustainability, ACCIONA aims to raise awareness about water conservation among children aged 7-10, empowering them to become stewards of this vital resource,” the company said in a statement.

URBAN POOR’S CALVARY. Emulating the passion of Jesus Christ shortly before his cruci xion, representatives of Metro Manila’s informal settlers stage a demonstration protest at the National Housing Authority compound in Quezon City to dramatize their endless struggle for decent homes. The event, dubbed ‘Ang Kalbaryo ng mga Maralita sa Sablay na Pabahay ng Gobyerno’ with a replica of a giant crown of thorns to boot, highlights the alleged ine ciency and disregard by concerned government agencies of their calls for ‘humane and a ordable housing.’

Manny Palmero

PCG seizes 17 ships dredging in Zambales

By Vince Lopez

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has seized 17 of 28 inspected vessels involved in dredging activities in Zambales on Mar. 19 to 21.

PCG spokesman Rear Admiral Armando Balilo said three of the sea craft were of foreign registry (China, Sierra Leone, and Panama), while 25 are bareboat charters registered in the Philippines. The 17 grounded ships were all bareboat charters registered locally.

Based on a directive by the PCG commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, PCG personnel conducted marine environmental protection inspection and vessel safety enforcement inspection on board these vessels—recording 344 deficiencies for adjudication of the Coast Guard Station in Manila.

During the inspections, PCG personnel secured a copy of issued Special Permits and Bareboat Charter by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) to compare it with the list of identified dredgers and suction cutters in Zambales.

On 19 March 2024, the Port State Control Division in Subic, Zambales inspected three foreign vessels that were involved in the dredging operations, namely, a cutter suction dredger from China with six deficiencies; an anchor boat from Sierra Leone with seven deficiencies; and a tugboat from Panama with 12 deficiencies.

The PCG also noted multiple deficiencies on another tugboat and a second anchor boat which likewise underwent rigid inspection.

Plane traveler learns: Not safe to carry shabu

ACCIONA, reputedly a global leader in sustainable infrastructure and solutions, said the drive dubbed as “Take Care of the Water” kicked off on Mar. 22, designated as World Water Day. It said the rollout was held in co laboration with PAREF Southridge and PAREF Woodrose schools.

ANTI-DIABETES DRIVE. Danish Ambassador to Manila Franz-Michael Mellbin and Novo Nordisk vice president Anand Shetty lead the launch of Changing Diabetes in Children Program in Valenzuela City. The program aims to improve the lives of children and young adults a icted with Type 1 diabetes “by breaking barriers through

“We believe that educating the younger generation about water conservation is pivotal to securing a sustainable future,” says Samantha Betia, head of marketing in Southeast Asia.

“Through the ‘Take Care of the Water’ campaign, we aim to instil the importance of water conservation in children, and empower them to take meaningful action.”

The campaign involves equipping the children with a water kit containing essential tools such as a bac pack, sustainable waterdrop, leaflet, and poster.

“We are thrilled to partner with ACCIONA in this noble endeavor,” said Cheyenne de la Fuente of PAREF Woodrose School.

“By educating our students about water conservation, we are nurturing responsible citizens who will safeguard our planet’s future,” she added.

Through engaging activities, students will learn and implement water-saving practices, including using the water drop to conserve water through creative measures on water reuse. Science teachers will actively participate, leading class discussions to reinforce learning and encourage the sharing of experiences,” ACCIONA said.

BI to ship out South Korean, American

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By Joel E. Zurbano

AN AIRPLANE passenger got himself in serious trouble for allegedly carrying a prohibited substance in his flight to Bacolod City.

The passenger was arrested at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 while about to board his Philippine Airlines flight to Bacolod.

Two screening officers of the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) confiscated a plastic sachet purportedly containing illegal drugs from the passenger whose identity was withheld pending further investigations.

The OTS referred the case to the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency which conducted a test on the substance, confirming it to be methamphetamine locally known as shabu prohibited under Republic Act No. 9165.

OTS officer-in-charge Jose Briones Jr. emphasized the agency’s commitment to working closely with other government agencies to prevent the entry of illegal and dangerous items at the airport.

“I commend the OTS Security Screening Officers for their vigilance in detecting prohibited items. We will continue working with other government agencies to maintain the security in our airports,” Briones said.

‘RBH No. 6 faces uphill climb in Senate’

SENATOR Sonny Angara said on Thursday that the Senate version of the Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) face an uphill climb.

RBH No. 7, which seeks to amend some economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution, was earlier approved by the House of Representatives Angara said RBH No. 6 needs to get 18 votes and pass in the chamber.

RBH No. 7 is almost an exact reproduction of RBH No. 6, introduced by Zubiri and Senators Loren Legarda and Juan Edgardo Angara. RBH No. 7 and RBH No. 6 are both entitled “A Resolution of Both Houses of Congress proposing amendments to certain economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines, particularly on Articles 12, 14 and 16” which cover public services, education, and the advertising industry.

SC upholds ruling allowing bail for Napoles in plunder case

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Supreme Court (SC) has upheld the ruling issued by the Sandiganbayan allowing former Masbate third district representative Rizalina Seachon-Lanete and businesswoman Janet Lim Napoles to post bail in the plunder cases filed against them in connection with the Priority Development Assistance (PDAF) or pork barrel fund scam.

In a 22-page resolution, the SC denied the petition filed by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) of the Ombudsman seeking the reversal of the resolutions dated April 12, 2016 and February 13, 2017 issued by the Sandiganbayan’s Fourth Division

VP Sara vows prompt action on voucher issue

VICE

Education (GASTPE).

Duterte made the response in an ambush interview on the sidelines of her engagements in Cambodia as the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) President on Thursday.

Duterte mentioned establishing the Government Assistance and Subsidies Office (GASO) to look into the reported discrepancies in the billing issued by the private schools.

“First of all, we are not issuing payments, we’re holding the payments,” she said. “Second, if it’s already paid and we see that it’s ineligible, either there’s a mistake or problem in the billing, we are asking for a refund to be brought back to the Department of Education.”

She also mentioned coordination with the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC) in terms of securing the voucher program billings from private schools.

On Wednesday, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian flagged the alleged bulk of undocumented beneficiaries of the E-GASTPE, during the Senate Committee on Basic Education’s hearing.

Gatchalian said the DepEd expected refunds to reach as high as P239 million, with some schools having P80 million and P68 million refunds, separately among others, based on the PEAC report.

which granted the applications for bail of Lanete and Napoles.

The high tribunal held that the antigraft court did not commit any grave abuse of discretion in allowing Lanete and Napoles to post bail considering that the OSP failed to establish the respondents’ guilt as the threshold of P50 million required in plunder case was not reached.

In its resolutions, Sandiganbayan also held that the OSP failed to provide proof of any personal dealings between Napoles and Lanete.

The anti-graft court noted that no evidence was presented by the OSP to show that Lanete and Napoles met to discuss the PDAF scheme and that the former personally received any kickbacks from the latter.

Angara, quoted by reports, further said: “Here in the Senate, it will be a bit of challenge to get 18 votes since most of the senators have spoken out against it.”

The senator, who heads the subcommittee deliberations on RBH No. 6, the Senate’s economic charter change version, said they would continue hearings on the measure that they aim to bring to the plenary before the State of the Nation Address (SONA).

“We’ll just try, okay? For me, it will be education for the public, they will

learn what it’s about. Who knows, our colleagues and the public could change their stance,” Angara, quoted by ABSCBN News, said. Asked if the Senate would act faster since no provisions were added in RBH No. 7, Angara said, “No. We have our own schedule. We’re moving fast but it’s not our only priority.” He also described as “good development” the House of Representatives’ transmittal to the Senate of the Resolution of Both Houses No. 6 (RBH 6).

CARD program grants aid to 3K Agusan residents

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE Cash and Rice Distribution (CARD) Program of the House of Representatives led by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez granted 3,000 residents in Agusan del Norte belonging to vulnerable sectors – the poor, senior citizens, PWDs, single parents and indigenous peoples – financial and rice aid.

T his initiative is upon the directive of President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos, Jr.

The CARD Program, held March 22 at the Provincial Capitol Gym in Butuan City coincided with the opening of the two-day Agusan del Norte Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyon Fair (BPSF).

“We are happy to be with you today to bring hope to our people in the CARAGA Region. We are here because the time is over when your leaders are not seen or only seen every campaign,” Romualdez, leader of the 300-plus-strong House of Representatives said during the opening of the program.

“We are here because we want to make sure that the measures we legislate including funding programs that help the people, are properly implemented and trickled down the people. This is part of our sworn duty.”

Panay faces power issues with coal plant maintenance til March 30

By Alena Mae S. Flores

PANAY Island’s precarious power supply situation may continue as Palm

Concepcion Power Corp.’s (PCPC) 135-megawatt circulating fluidized bed coal (CFBC) plant will not be able to come back online on March 30, 2024.

PCPC said in a statement it is currently conducting its annual preventive

maintenance service (PMS) scheduled from Feb. 18 to March 30, 2024, for its coal plant in Panay. It said a significant part of the PMS is the major overhaul of the turbine and generator but after the inspection and test by the General Electric (GE) service contractor, it was discovered that the generator sustained stator insulation damage.

PCPC said this issue will be rectified by replacing the damaged parts to ensure the power plant’s long-term viability.

The company said it will need to source new parts outside of the Philippines to address the damage to the generator. An inspection report will be done to determine the cause and extent of the damage and, more significantly, determine how soon we can get back online.

“We are now conducting the necessary

HB seeks state university in San Fernando

By Maricel V. Cruz

SENIOR Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. is pushing for the enactment of a bill establishing a regular and permanent campus of the Pampanga State University in San Fernando City, Pampanga’s capital. Gonzales, author of House Bill 9988, stressed the absence of a state university “in the heart of the province com-

pels students to seek admission in state universities and colleges and other schools outside their area of residence.”

“This situation, coupled with high fuel prices and worsening traffic, forces the students’ families to incur extra expenses, robs students of their productive time and may promote disinterest among the youth to pursue or complete their college, technical or professional education,” he said.

measures to resolve this matter as soon as possible. In light of this situation, we would like to inform the public that PCPC will not be synchronized with the grid by March 30, 2024. Nevertheless, PCPC will remain committed to our existing power supply agreements to ensure that our consumers will not be affected by the extended outage, and will continue to supply replacement power at no additional cost,” PCPC said.

Solon dismayed over ‘failure’ to pass GPRA

By Maricel V. Cruz

DEPUTY Majority Leader and Tingog Partylist Rep. Jude Acidre expressed disappointment over the failure of the Senate to pass the proposed new Government Procurement Reform Act (GPRA) on second reading, despite being certified as urgent by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Acidre said it was unfortunate that a bill as crucial as GPRA had escaped the attention of senators.

“It’s quite disappointing lang actually. To be honest, especially when you’re one of the co-authors na despite the President’s call to certify, the President’s action to certify the said legislation as urgent, parang nagsi-alisan yata sila para sa IPU or nagpaplano munang pumunta sa IPU, sa biyahe (They leave for IPU),” Acidre said, referring to the Geneva-based Inter-Parliamentary Union.

“That’s really something that I hope the Senate will make good, especially considering that this is a piece of legislation that’s important to the overall economic and fiscal reforms that the present administration is pursuing,” he added.

To recall, the House approved on third and final reading the procurement reform bill on December 12, 2023. House Bill (HB) 9648 aims to improve and modernize the government procurement system in the country by amending the decades-old Republic Act 9184 or the original GPRA.

HUGE CATCH. A mussel farmer shows his catch of “tahong” at Coastal Road, Paranaque City. The prices of seafood, including mussels, are expected to shoot up due to demand during the Holy Week. Lino Santos

PANGLAO. Tourists get ready to board a boat in Panglao, Bohol on Friday. Though El Niño is now gradually weakening, experts said its impact will continue over the coming months by fueling the heat trapped in the atmosphere by greenhouse gases. Norman Cruz

TESDAMAN IN HONG KONG. Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva led the opening of the “Tesdaman Action Center” in Sham Shui Po, Kowloon, Hong Kong on Sunday where 3,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) were able to receive medical, educational, and other forms of government assistance.

New Triad: USA, Yakusa & Takusa

THE news headline the past week says it all, “Philippines, Japan eye forming security triad with US,” allegedly to the “China threat.”

The sinister “triad” name was actually given by the Center for Strategic and International Studies. It begs the question, “When has China ever threatened the peace and security of Asia?”

Wasn’t it the US with “gunboat diplomacy” that spread mayhem and colonized the Philippines, followed by Imperial Japan in World War II?

China, in historical fact, was an ally of the Philippines, exemplified by the support from China’s Sun Yat Sen, to the Philippine Revolution through Mariano Ponce.

In WWII the Chinese contingent Wah Chi composed of Chinese guerillas supported the Hukbalahap against the occupying Japanese Imperial Army.

The South China Sea had been unsafe only when the two 20th Century imperialist powers, US and Japan, imposed blockades in the South China Sea to control Asia.

China was invaded via the sea 400 times in history and lost Hong Kong and other cities to the invaders for a while. The Western colonial powers used the SCS to spread their

China sailed the South China Sea hun-

before Magellan invaded the

in 1521, eventually leading to its

but Admiral Zheng He’s fleet had visited Jolo between December 14051407 which led to the return visit of the King of Sulu Paduka Pahala/Paduka Batara to the Chinese emperor in 1417.

Zheng He’s “treasure voyages” had been fabled as the Seven Voyages of Sinbad, and lasted 28 years and there is no word of conquests being made; there were local vendettas that pulled away on the loyalties of Zheng He, but never had any occupation of any nation.

That is China’s peaceful internationalist DNA that prevails to this day.

The New Triad boss USA (pronounced like “deer” in Tagalog), in the classic mode of the gangster, has mustered the cowed Yakusa of Asia and the recidivist Takusa (not “takot sa asawa” but “takot sa USA”) of the ASEAN neighborhood to its side -- to sic on the Asian Dragon that the dimunitive French Napoleon Bonaparte emperor once warned not to wake, lest it will “shake the world.”

Truth is, China has shaken the world in the way the vast majority of the human race, the former colonized nations, likes. Rallying to China’s equanimous approach to global and regional issues are the nine ASEAN countries most concerned about the peace in the region and BRICS Plus countries counting 10 members and soon up to 40 countries creating a “Commu-

nity of Shared Future for Mankind.”

The BRICS Plus geo-economic alliance now represents 37 percent of Global GDP to the US-led G-7’s 29 percent, and controls 40 percent of the world’s energy supply while gross agricultural production of BRICS accounted for over 50 percent of the world’s total.

Russia with Ukraine’s wheat production areas under its control supplies 30 percent of the world’s wheat.

The more important alliance to consider is ASEAN with its Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, a free trade agreement led by China and including Japan and South Korea, now constituting the world’s largest free trade agreement.

—“—

That’s how the USA mob gets loyalty: mafia initiation, mug, kick, burn, spit, and get subservience of the sonafabitch

By being part of the New Triad, the Philippines is isolating itself from BRICS and ASEAN. Is this sensible to do?

The tottering USA “capo di tutti capi” is calling the New Triad to a mob meeting in April where, the consigliere announced, “leaders will advance a trilateral partnership built on deep historical ties of friendship,” in true gangland spirit of the USA mugging the Takusa in its colonial war and burning the hell into the Yakusa’s flesh with atomic aplomb.

That’s how the USA mob gets loyalty: mafia initiation, mug, kick, burn, spit, and get subservience of the sonafabitch. Look at the triad now, tagged along around the world by the “capo di tutti capi,” especially the Takusa, to Europe, Australia, and around the world.

Otherwise, they get the “cement shoes.”

Remember what USA consigliere Henry Kissinger said many years ago, “It’s dangerous to be America’s enemy, but to be America’s friend is fatal.”

Worse is reserved for its allies, just look at USA mafia enforcer Zelensky and Ukraine, they’re getting the “cement shoes” soon. rpkapunan@gmail.com

Protecting Mother Earth

By Melandrew T. Velasco

FILIPINOS whacked by El Nino understandably welcome the advisory by PAGASA-DOST this month – which noted the weather phenomenon has shown signs of weakening.

While it may last until May, it will transition to ENSO-neutral conditions from April until June. There is a 55 percent chance for La Niña to develop from June to August.

In our country, indicators of the El Nino phenomenon include delayed onset and early termination of the rainy season, and fewer tropical cyclones entering the Philippine Area of Responsibility.

The dry spell and drought experienced are associated with El Nino, which has caused P1.23 billion in agricultural damage from 26,731.4 hectares.

The government has since formulated a National Action Plan to address El Nino’s challenges and increase community resilience.

On Jan. 19, 2024, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. reactivated and reconstituted the Task Force El Nino, chaired by Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, to implement solutions “to ensure food, water and energy security, safeguard livelihoods, and improve the country’s disaster and climate resilience.”

Past experiences remind us that heavy rains usually result in inundation that damages agricultural crops, affects energy supply, destroys infrastructure including residential structures, and even loss of lives.

Extreme heat, droughts and floods are unfavorable outcomes of climate change, which can initially be addressed by reforestation. Trees help prevent soil erosion, as habi-

EDITORIAL

on health guard

HEAR, hear.

The Department of Health has urged the public to catch up on their routine vaccinations as cases of pertussis and measles have risen, the agency recording 453 cases of vaccine-preventable pertussis in the first 10 weeks of 2024, compared to only 23 in the same period last year.

tat for wildlife, play an important role in the water cycle, provide livelihood, and check climate change. Trees absorb carbon, a major driver for global warming, which is converted into nutrients needed by trees.

It is our duty to leave behind a healthy and livable global home to future generations. As former US President Lyndon B. Johnson stated, “If future generations are to remember us with gratitude rather than contempt, we must leave them something more than the miracles of technology.

Trees absorb carbon, a major driver for global warming, which is converted into nutrients needed by

“We must leave them a glimpse of the world as it was in the beginning, not just after we got through it.” That resonates with the idea behind the Million Trees Foundation, Inc, primarily established to support the Annual Million Tree Challenge of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System, a commitment to help address global warming and climate change with its tree-planting activities.

AMTC has now planted and grown

But wait. What is pertussis? This is whooping cough, a highly contagious bacterial respiratory infection that causes influenza-like symptoms of mild fever, colds, and coughs 7 to 10 days after exposure.

The DOH says this cough, in typical cases, will develop into a characteristic hacking cough but, good thing, this can be treated by antibiotics, although it is best prevented through vaccination.

The DOH also recorded 569 measles and rubella cases as of Feb. 24, with all regions, except Bicol and Central Visayas, reporting an increase in measles and rubella infections last month.

In Metro Manila, Quezon City already declared an outbreak of whooping cough or pertussis following an increase in the cases of the contagious respiratory infection, with four babies reported to have died from infection.

Eagle Eyes

Tony La Viña

PALM Sunday is the day Christians commemorate the triumphant entrance of Our Lord Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, the eternal city.

In many ways, it is a celebration of victory but only for a while. The real victory will come on Easter Sunday.

Palm Sunday is the start of the Holy Week which is the week before his resurrection.

On this day two millennia ago, Christ, astride a donkey, entered the Holy City and was met by a throng of worshippers, laying palm leaves, and spreading their cloaks along the path and crying out in acclamation Hosanna!

“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, the king of Israel.”

Jesus was the Messiah, the long-awaited Ruler of Israel, the culmination of all of God’s promises to his people.

The people, aware of the miracles and wonders he had been performing, believed that He was the messiah, the promised savior who would free Israel from the Roman oppressors.

The entry into Jerusalem came after Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead.

No small wonder the multitude was awestruck.

They must have thought that if Jesus can raise a man from the dead and heal the sick, he can also drive the Romans away.

According to the DOH, children under 5 years old and the unvaccinated are the most affected.

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease spread by sneezing, coughing, and close personal contact. Its symptoms include cough, runny nose, red eyes, fever, and skin rashes lasting for more than three days.

—“—

These health messages should not be ignored, particularly with the present El Niño phenomenon Be

Complications include diarrhea, middle ear infection, pneumonia, encephalitis or swelling of the brain, malnutrition, and blindness which may lead to death, according to the DOH website.

On the other hand, rubella, a contagious viral infection best known by its distinctive red rash, is also called German measles or three-day measles.

This infection may cause mild or no

symptoms in most people but it can cause serious problems for unborn babies whose mothers become infected during pregnancy.

Medical authorities say most people who get rubella usually have mild illness, with symptoms that can include a low-grade fever, sore throat, and a rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.

Some people may also have a headache, pink eye, and general discomfort before the rash appears and can cause a miscarriage or serious birth defects in an unborn baby if a woman is infected while she is pregnant.

But the good news is that rubella can be prevented with MMR vaccine (vaccine against measles, mumps and rubella), very safe and effective, with just one dose 97 percent effective at preventing it.

Health authorities recommend children get two doses of MMR vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age. Teens and adults also should also be up to date on their MMR vaccination.

These health messages should not be ignored, particularly with the present El Niño phenomenon, which has caused damage to agricultural crops and threatened the populatiuon with dry spells and drought during the summer months.

Victory Sunday

utterly helpless and cannot defend himself from his malicious accusers. Even Peter and the disciples who accompanied him during the three years of his earthly life, dare not lift a finger in his defense.

Jesus did not enter Jerusalem to be worshipped as an earthly king; in fact, it is the opposite – he came to be scourged, abused, spat on, mocked, rejected, and finally suffered the humiliation of being nailed on the Cross like a common criminal.

—“—

In our desire to uplift our material and physical well-being we often clutch at straws by clinging to false promises —“—

But fickle as they are, these very same crowds will condemn him to be crucified and cry out for his blood, choosing Barabbas, a murderer, and a known robber, to be freed. Pilate offers them a choice between a known criminal over a failed Messiah and they chose the former.

Disenchanted that a while ago he was performing wondrous deeds but now before the Sanhedrin and before Pilate, he is

His kingdom is not temporary and finite but one that is everlasting. He promises a kingship that will free man from the bondage of sin. His throne is the Cross. Looking around, we readily discern why Christ allowed himself to suffer and die on the Cross. Jesus on the Cross took it upon himself to carry the weight of man’s iniquity and with the force of God’s love he conquers it, he defeats it with his resurrection.

Christ’s Cross, while unappealing to

those who hate and do not love, if embraced with humility and meekness with love leads to joy, to the joy of being saved. In our desire to uplift our material and physical well-being we often clutch at straws by clinging to false promises, singing Hallelujah to people who profess to serve our interests and instantaneously solve our problems.

Yet in doing so, we readily cast aside the Cross of Christ and to quick fixes and fast solution but destroy the sanctity of human life and environment. In the end, there is only misery and sadness.

One instance, during the Duterte years, in our desire to rid society of the scourge of drugs and criminality, many were more than willing to take the short cut -- destroy life of the so-called undesirables and take recourse to barbarity; or even slaughter the unborn in the name of material prosperity.

Never mind the rule of law and the intrinsic value of human life which, as a civilized people, we ought to respect.

If there is one important lesson that Palm Sunday teaches, it is to tell us that life often offers a myriad of choices; either choosing the quality of leaders, or the way we comport ourselves in private and in public, and in general how to live our lives.

Making a choice is not easy.

But the best choice can be achieved only if we allow the Spirit and wisdom of God to guide us. The Jews made a mistake in choosing Barabbas. As believers of Christ, we should never allow this to happen.

Let’s understand true triumph, real victory, and sing: Hosannah to our King!

Website: tonylavina.com Facebook: deantonylavs Twitter: tonylavs

On behalf of MTFI

Emeritus Gen. Reynaldo V .

and MWSS

Leonor Cleofas, we thank San Miguel Corporation through SMC President and CEO Ramon S. Ang for its annual endowment of P5-million to the foundation and the two MWSS concessionaires -- Maynilad and Manila Water -- for their continuing institutional support.

As a Native American proverb and an Amish saying goes, “we don’t inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.”

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

Russia hits Ukraine with missiles, cuts power lines

KYIV – Russia launched a massive wave of deadly overnight attacks on Ukraine using over 90 missiles and 60 Iranian-made drones, President Volodymyr Zelensky said Friday, in one of the largest offensives recently.

“There were more than 60 ‘Shaheds’ and almost 90 missiles of various types overnight,” he said.

“The world sees the targets of Russian terrorists as clearly as possible: power plants and energy supply lines, a hydroelectric dam, ordinary residential buildings, even a trolleybus.”

Ukraine’s internal affairs ministry said the strikes killed at least two people and injured 14 while three were missing.

“All of our services are now involved in eliminating the consequences of the attack. We use robotic equipment in dangerous areas to minimize injuries to rescuers,” it said.

One of the strikes Friday severed one of two power lines supplying Europe’s largest nuclear power plant in southeast Ukraine.

Zelensky once again appealed for more Western arms.

“Russian missiles do not have delays, as do aid packages to our country. The ‘Shahed’ have no indecision, like some politicians. It is important to understand the cost of delays and postponed decisions,” he said.

“We need air defense to protect people, infrastructure, homes and dams. Our partners know exactly what is needed. They can definitely support us... Life must be protected from these non-humans from Moscow.”

“The enemy is now carrying out the largest attack on the Ukrainian energy industry in recent times,” Energy Minister German Galushchenko said on Facebook, adding that shelling had knocked out “one of the power transmission lines feeding” the Zaporizhzhia power plant.

The facility, Europe’s largest nuclear energy site, was seized by Russian troops in the first days of the war but is powered by Ukrainian lines.

“This situation is extremely dangerous and risks sparking an emergency situation”, said Ukraine’s atomic energy operator Energoatom.

In the event that the final power line is cut, it said the plant will be “on the verge of another blackout, which is a serious violation of the conditions of safe operation of the plant”. AFP

Blinken in Tel Aviv for tense Gaza talks

TEL

US

Blinken is expected to speak to the Israeli government on humanitarian aid distribution in the Palestinian territory and to urge Israel not to launch a ground operation in Rafah, where around 1.5 million people are sheltering.

Israel’s main backer the United States announced it would submit for a vote on Friday (Saturday Manila time) a draft to the Security Council on the need for an “immediate ceasefire as part of a hostage deal”, after repeatedly using its veto power to block other similarly worded resolutions.

Fighting in Gaza this week has centered around Al-Shifa hospital, the besieged territory’s largest, with Israel also vowing to launch a new ground assault in overcrowded Rafah in the south.

Israel said its spy chief would also head back to Qatar on Friday for more

truce talks with US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators who are trying to negotiate a six-week pause.

The talks are focused on securing a truce agreement, hinged on the release of hostages held by Hamas militants in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody and the delivery of more aid to Gaza, where famine is threatening its 2.4 million people.

Blinken told reporters in Cairo on Thursday “gaps are narrowing” and that the United States was “continuing to push for an agreement in Doha”.

“It’s difficult to get there, but I believe it is still possible,” Blinken said.

He warned that an Israeli ground offensive in Rafah, Gaza’s southernmost city where around 1.5 million people are hemmed in by the Egyptian border, would be “a mistake”.

“There is no place for the civilians

Australia, Britain vow nuclear-powered subs will be built despite mounting fears

ADELAIDE, Australia –Australia and Britain said Friday a landmark deal to develop AUKUS nuclearpowered submarines would go ahead, despite mounting fears about costs, capabilities and the possible return of

Donald Trump. Under the fledgling AUKUS deal, the two countries along with the United States have pledged to beef up their military muscle in a bid to counter China’s rise. Defense chiefs this week unveiled ambitious plans to supply Australia with a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines, a key pillar of the agreement.

“The three governments involved here are working at pace to make this happen,” Australian defence minister

Richard Marles told reporters on Friday.

“This is going to happen and we need it to happen,” he added.

Barely two years old, there are already signs that AUKUS and its central project could be under threat.

amassed in Rafah to get out of harm’s way,” Blinken said. “There is a better way to deal with the ongoing threat posed by Hamas.”

The United States will submit its draft resolution to the UN Security Council on Friday, a spokesman for the US representative to the world body said.

The US resolution “will unequivocally support ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at securing an immediate ceasefire in Gaza as part of a hostage deal... we will be bringing this Resolution for a vote on Friday morning,” Nate Evans, spokesman for US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said in a statement.

The United Kingdom and Australia, both allies of Israel and the United States, issued a statement after talks on Friday between their defence and foreign ministers that stressed the “urgency of an immediate cessation of fighting in Gaza to allow aid to flow and hostages to be released.” AFP

36 Chinese military planes detected around Taiwan

TAIPEI – Taipei’s defense ministry announced Friday the highest single-day number of Chinese military aircraft around the self-ruled island this year, which analysts attributed as a reaction to Taiwan’s political outreach to Europe in recent days.

Beijing claims democratic Taiwan as part of its territory and has never renounced the use of force to bring it under China’s control.

Friday’s incursion, an uptick from the previous day’s tally, follows a pattern of what experts dub “grey zone” actions -tactics that fall short of outright acts of war -- which have ramped up since the 2016 election of President Tsai Ing-wen.

Political tensions have also risen since January after Tsai’s deputy Lai Ching-te -- who Beijing regards as a “dangerous separatist” -- was elected as president, and amid an ongoing row between China and Taiwan over a fatal boat incident.

In the 24 hours leading up to 6:00 am Friday, the Ministry of National Defense said it had detected 36 Chinese military aircraft and six naval ships operating around Taiwan.

The ministry added that among the aircraft detected, 13 had “crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait”, the sensitive waterway separating China from Taiwan.

Friday’s announcement comes on the heels of nighttime activity by the Chinese military, with Taiwan’s defence ministry announcing around 10:30 pm Thursday that 20 fighter jets, aerial unmanned vehicles and transport planes had been detected from 7:30 pm.

It is also the day after an uptick in activity during the 24-hour period ending at 6:00 am Thursday, when the ministry said Beijing had sent in 32 aircraft.

Ahead of January’s election of Lai, Beijing warned he would bring “war and decline” to the island.

Lai will take office on May 20 alongside vice president-elect Hsiao Bi-khim of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party.

Hsiao -- formerly Taiwan’s de facto ambassador to the United States -- has been travelling in recent days, including to the Czech Republic and the European Parliament.

“Our fight for freedom and democracy is more shared than ever, and the Taiwanese people can rest assured it will always find dear friends in Europeans,” wrote French politician Dominique Riquet, who is also a member of the European Parliament, on social media platform X on Thursday. AFP

Bataan and engaged in real estate activities, among others.

is owned by the Bataan – BASECO Joint in Brgy. Sisiman where a Master Planned Community called “SISIMAN SEASIDE VILLAGE” will

The “SISIMAN SEASIDE VILLAGE” will have an initial Three (3) Residential Buildings with three thousand (3,000) socialized housing units for Illegal Settlers and Families (ISFs) and fisherfolks in Brgy. Sisiman. Joint Venture, Inc. (BBJVI), a Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) Registered

You may coordinate with Ms. Arlene G. Dacdac, 3F 06, The Bunker Building, Provincial Capitol Compound, Balanga

We desire to appoint an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) provider for the Design and Land Development of the aforementioned property.

Some fear Trump could jettison the pact if he wins this year’s presidential election, returning to his “America first” style of foreign policy. UK foreign secretary David Cameron suggested that “brilliant” AUKUS and other alliances like NATO -which he dubbed “the most successful defence alliance in history” -- needed to be fighting fit come US election time. AFP

INVITATION TO BID

Designer/Contractor to Redesign and Construct BBJVI Four Ecom Office’s Board Room and Lobby

Bataan – BASECO Joint Venture Inc. (BBJVI) is considering to redesign their Four Ecom Office’s Board Room and Lobby located at MOA Complex, Pasay City to a more enticing business setting anchored on the promotion of the National Government’s Big-Ticket Projects namely Bataan Transshipment Hub, Bataan Cavite Interlink Bridge and Bulacan – Pampanga _Bataan Coastal Road and Flood Control Project.

We desire to appoint a Designer/ Contractor to redesign and construct its Four Ecom Office’s Board Room and Lobby in accordance to the Terms of Reference (TOR) of the aforementioned project.

For

Indonesia calls off sea search for missing Rohingya refugees

MEULABOH, Indonesia –Indonesian rescuers called off the search for Rohingya refugees missing at sea after their boat capsized, despite reports from some of the survivors that dozens of people were swept away. Friday’s announcement comes a day after authorities staged a dramatic rescue of 69 Rohingya who had been adrift at sea for weeks before the boat capsized, with many found clinging to the hull of the overturned vessel.

The mostly Muslim Rohingya are heavily persecuted in Myanmar, and thousands risk their lives each year on long and expensive

sea journeys, often on flimsy boats, to try to reach Malaysia or Indonesia.

“The search ended on Thursday. All Rohingya refugees on top of the boat yesterday have been rescued,” Muhammad Fathur Rachman, an official from the search and rescue agency in Aceh, said through a spokesperson.

The search ended because there was no list of passengers, he added.

Survivors estimated there were “around 150 people on the boat,” West Aceh fishing community secretarygeneral Pawang Amiruddin told AFP by phone on Wednesday. AFP

ELUSIVE CEASEFIRE. Humanitarian aid parcels attached to parachutes are airdropped from a military aircraft over the Gaza Strip on Thursday amid the ongoing violence between

UPS expanding Clark hub to boost regional operations

GLOBAL logistics company UPS signed a strategic deal with Clark International Airport (CRK) operator Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corp. (LIPAD) to expand its operations and boost its presence in the region.

“We have been doing business in our Philippines hub for more than 25 years, helping to connect businesses to markets in Asia Pacific and beyond,” said UPS Asia Pacific president Wilfredo Ramos.

“The investments UPS continues to make through this expansion will enhance time in transit across Asia Pacific and continue to deliver service reliability for our customers and position UPS for long term growth,” he said.

LIPAD president and chief executive Noel Manankil said the collaboration between UPS and LIPAD marks a major achievement in positioning Clark as a

premier logistics hub for international brands seeking to launch or grow their global presence.

“This expansion is part of the efforts of LIPAD in project land development, as stipulated in its concession agreement with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority [BCDA],” he said.

Construction of the new Clark hub is set to begin in February 2025. The facility is expected to be operational in late 2026.

LIPAD chairperson Josephine Gotianun-Yap said the UPS expansion in Clark would bring positive changes to Pampanga, provide job opportunities for the local community and serve as an economic stimulus in the region.

The agreement is the latest in a series of recent network and facility enhancements UPS has made across Asia Pacific including in Singapore, Japan, China, Vietnam, South Korea,

ACEN signs deal to acquire 40% interest in Quezon wind project

By Alena Mae S. Flores

said Friday it signed documents to acquire a 40-percent stake in Real Wind Energy Inc., a company developing a 500-megawatt wind project in Quezon province.

“The transaction will potentially add 500 MW of renewable energy to ACEN’s power generation portfolio,” ACEN said in disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange.

ACEN said it signed an asset and share sale and purchase agreement with Modern Energy Management Pte. Ltd. (MEM) and signed the deed of absolute sale of shares with MEM, as the seller, for the acquisition of 4,000 common shares in RWEI

Wilcon Depot announces 9.5% decline in profit

WILCON Depot Inc., a home improvement and finishing construction supplies retailer, said Friday its net income fell 9.5 percent in 2023 to P3.48 billion from a year ago on higher operating expenses.

Wilcon said in a disclosure to the stock exchange that net sales inched up by 3.1 percent to P34.6 billion on soft demand.

“The softness of the market persisted through the fourth quarter, which led to a modest growth in our topline for the year, 100 percent of which was contributed by the new stores,” said Lorraine Belo-Cincochan, president and chief executive of Wilcon.

“Comparable sales dipped by 3.4 percent, impacting directly our net income as operating expenses conversely continued to grow,” she said.

Belo-Cincochan said despite the slowdown, the company would meet its target of 100 stores within the year.

Wilcon plans to open two Do-ItWilcon (DIW) branches and eight Wilcon depot stores.

“Anchoring on our 47-year experience in this sector, we remain confident that we will be able to adapt to the post-Covid home improvement market by being consistently customer-centric and improving our operations to continually give excellent value to our customers even as we expand our market reach,” she said. Jenniffer B. Austria

equivalent to 40 percent of the total outstanding shares of the company.

ACEN also signed a loan assignment agreement for the assignment of MEM’s receivables from RWEI. “The RWEI project is strategically located close to another ACEN wind project spanning Laguna and Quezon. This new acquisition presents opportunities for synergies through the joint use of logistical routes, transmission lines, and substation infrastructure,” the company said. RWEI is a special purpose vehicle for the development and operation of the wind energy project in Real, Quezon.

ACEN said the acquisition price was less than 10 percent of the book value of the company as of Dec. 31, 2023.

Taiwan and most recently Hong Kong, where UPS announced it would open a new state-of-the-art facility in 2028.

“Asia Pacific continues to be one of UPS’s fastest growing regions. UPS has continued to invest in our network to maximize speed and flexibility, build solutions addressing the shift of global trade lanes, and offer resilience for our customers,” Ramos said.

UPS also invested intensively in its Healthcare business introducing UPS Premier – which provides priority handling for time- and temperaturesensitive, and patient-critical products –in nine markets across the Asia Pacific region. In 2023, the company added over 22,000 square meters of cold chain enabled handling, storage and distribution space via new healthcare facilities in Singapore and Australia. An additional 12,000 square meters is planned for 2024.

Darwin G. Amojelar

Recto wants ‘more realistic’ growth targets until 2028

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE economic managers plan to reduce the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth targets until 2028, according to Finance Secretary Ralph Recto.

“I think we should come out with something more realistic not only this year, but [also] for the medium term until 2028, because if we project a very high GDP, projecting a very high revenue, and if you miss it, your deficit will increase and your debtto-GDP [ratio] will also increase,” Recto said on the sidelines of the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines (EJAP) 2024 board of directors’ induction Thursday evening.

“So, I think we should be responsible for that. Nevertheless, we pushed the BIR [Bureau of Internal Revenue], the Customs and the Treasury to collect more. We will adjust the GDP down, but we will ask the BIR and the BOC to do more,” he said, The Development Budget Coordination Committee in its December 2023 meeting lowered the growth target for 2024 to between 6.5 percent and 7.5 percent from the previous range of 6.5 percent to 8 percent, while retaining the

Aboitiz Power’s board approves appointment of 42-year-old CEO

THE board of Aboitiz Power Corp. on Friday approved the appointment of Danel Aboitiz as president and chief executive effective July 1, 2024.

It also approved the retirement of Emmanuel Rubio from the company effective June 30, 2024.

Aboitiz, 42, is the company’s director and chief commercial and stakeholder engagement officer. He holds various directorships within the Aboitiz Group.

“Danel Aboitiz inherits a company in great shape, and the company is confident he will take AboitizPower to the next level,” the company said.

6.5 percent to 8 percent growth assumption for 2025 to 2028.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that the Philippine economy expanded 5.6 percent in 2023, below the government’s target range of 6 percent to 8 percent and the actual growth of 7.6 percent registered in 2022.

Recto said a 6-percent GDP growth is a “good number” for 2024. “Aspirational, I think we should hit 6.5 percent,” he said.

“Realistic is 6 percent, but we will endeavor to hit 6.5 percent. That’s how I’m looking at it,” he said.

Recto also expects inflation in March to reach 3.9 percent, or within the government’s target range of 2 percent to 4 percent.

“It’s gonna be a bumpy road, but I think it’s still within the band,” he added.

The PSA reported that inflation rate in February picked up to 3.4 percent from 2.8 percent in January, on higher food, beverage and transport prices.

GT Capital’s income surges 57% to P28.7b

By Jenniffer B. Austria

CONGLOMERATE GT Capital Holdings Inc. said Friday its net income grew 57 percent in 2023 to P28.7 billion from P18.4 billion in 2022, driven by the substantial growth in core banking, automotive and property units.

It said in a stock exchange filing that minus one-off items, GT Capital’s 2023 core net income climbed 82 percent to a record P28.8 billion from P15.9-billion in the previous year.

The Aboitiz Group was named by the Energy Regulatory Commission as the biggest power generating company with a national market share of 22.47 percent and installed generating capacity (IGC) of 5,745 megawatts.

committee. He has served in various capacities throughout the Aboitiz Group and has been extensively involved in the various business units of AboitizPower.

Aboitiz was appointed as private sector representative for Mindanao for the Inter-Agency Investment Promotion Coordination Committee of the Department of Trade and Industry in October 2023. He also serves as a director of the Philippine Electricity Market Corp., vice chairman of Philippine Independent Power Producers Association and vice chair of Management Association of the Philippines’ energy

Shell Pilipinas logged P1.2-b earnings despite challenges, pressures in 2023

SHELL Pilipinas Corp. said Friday it closed 2023 with a net income of P1.2 billion, demonstrating the company’s resilience amid a challenging year.

The company said in a disclosure to the stock exchange macroeconomic factors such as elevated interest rates and decline in global fuel prices impacted the company’s profitability last year.

Shell Pilipinas said it navigated through these obstacles by strategically increasing volumes and maintaining a focus on premium products.

It said its marketing business

achieved a remarkable turnaround in 2023, with delivery up by over 60 percent compared to 2022.

“I’m incredibly proud of the resilience shown by our organization, delivering results amid market pressures in 2023. Despite external challenges, we were still able to gain higher marketing earnings while introducing new and innovative offers,” said Shell Pilipinas president and chief executive Lorelie Quiambao-Osial.

Shell Pilipinas also expressed optimism on greater success alongside the country’s projected growth in 2024.

Alena Mae S.

He served as president and chief operating officer of AboitizPower’s coal and oil business units from 2016 to 2018 and handled key positions in the group’s renewable power generation companies from 2010 to 2016, including the SN AboitizPower Group and AP Renewables Inc. Aboitiz graduated with honors from the University of Edinburgh with an MA Degree in Philosophy and Politics. Alena Mae S. Flores

“2023 was an exceptional year for the GT Capital Group of Companies. A significant level up from the previous year, our expectations were exceeded by the record-setting financial results from our core businesses: Metrobank, Toyota Motor Philippines and Federal Land,” GT Capital president Carmelo Maria Luza Bautista said.

Bautista said that after the company’s robust performance in 2023, the company was expected to have a “tempered growth” for 2024.

Compared to pre-pandemic 2019, GT Capital’s core and consolidated net income in 2023 went up by 83 percent and 41 percent, respectively. GT Capital’s banking arm Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company (Metrobank) posted record earnings of P42.2 billion in 2023, a 28.9-percent increase from a year ago. This translated into a return on equity (ROE) of 12.5 percent, higher than 10.3 percent in 2022.

Flores

EJAP BOARD. Department of Finance Secretary Ralph Recto leads the induction of the new officers of the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines (EJAP), the country’s premier organization for business journalists, at the DOF’s head office in Manila on March 21, 2024. EJAP’s new officers in attendance are (from left) Neil Jerome Morales of Reuters News, president; Kris Crismundo of Philippine News Agency, vice president-internal; Maria Bernadette Romero of Daily Tribune, secretary; Lorenz Marasigan of BusinessMirror, treasurer; Louise Maureen Simeon of Philippine Star, auditor; and board members Elijah Felice Rosales of Philippine Star, Alena Mae Flores of Manila Standard, Jenniffer Austria of Manila Standard, Lawrence Agcaoili of Philippine Star and Jimmy Calapati of Malaya Business Insight. Not in the photo is Michelle Ong of ANC, vice president-external.

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Blitz Game, Skills Challenge begin All-Star PBA festivities

BACOLOD—The Blitz Game and Skills Challenge formally ushers in the PBA All-Star festivities Saturday at the University of St. La Salle gymnasium.

The Obstacle Course kicks off the mid-season spectacle at 3 p.m. before the match between Team Greats and Team Stalwarts caps the opener of the two-day event that returns to the City of Smiles for the first time since 2008.

Dave Marcelo of NLEX is out to defend his title in the Obstacle Challenge, where he will be pitted against veterans Raymond Almazan (Meralco), Jason Perkins (Phoenix), Mo Tautuaa (San Miguel), and youngsters Clifford Jopia (Blackwater), Justin Arana (Converge), James Laput (Magnolia), JM Calma (Northport), Leonard Santillan (Rain or Shine), Isaac Go (Terrafirma), Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser (TNT), and late entry Ralph Cu (Barangay Ginebra), who takes the place of teammate Christian Standhardinger.

Marcelo dethroned Beau Belga in last year’s contest in Passi City, Iloilo.

Meanwhile, Magnolia’s Paul Lee will also aim for a back-to-back in the Long Distance Three-Point shootout among guards. Lee, who beat out Marcio Lassiter (San Miguel) and Juami Tiongson (Terrafirma) for the title last year, is up against another formidable cast of deadly gunners in Maverick Ahanmisi (Barangay Ginebra), two-time winner James Yap (Blackwater), Alec Stockton (Converge), Chris Newsome (Meralco), Robbie Herndon (NLEX), Arvin Tolentino (Northport), Ken Tuffin (Phoenix), Andrei Caracut (Rain or Shine), Javi Gomez de Liano (Terrafirma), Calvin Oftana (TNT), and Lassiter.

In yet another novelty plan, a second version of the Three-Point shootout will also be held, but involving 12 of the league’s big men as a replacement for the traditional Slam Dunk contest. Majority of the players competing in the Obstacle Challenge are also entered in the event, with the exception of Christian David (Blackwater) and Keith Zaldivar (Converge).

Canino back at helm of women’s chess meet

WONDER girl Ruelle Canino smashed Mhage Gerriahlou Sebastian to reclaim the solo lead after seven rounds of the Philippine National Chess Championships dubbed “The Battle of Women’s Masters” at the City Hall of Malolos, Bulacan on Friday.

The win was the 15-year-old Cagayan de Oro lass’ sixth out of the possible seven that catapulted her back at the helm after momentarily losing it after being stopped on her tracks by Woman Grandmaster-candidate Kylen Joy Mordido in the fifth round Wednesday.

With four rounds to go, it also put the many-time Asian Age Group champion in strong position to claim a spot to the Asian Indoor Martial Games in Bangkok, Thailand this November, one of the three slots to the FIDE World Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary this September and the top purse worth P85,000 courtesy of host Malolos City Mayor Atty. Christian Natividad. Half a point behind with 5.5 points was erstwhile co-leader Woman International Master Jan Jodilyn Fronda, who was stalled by an upset draw with unheralded Jarel Renz Lacambra in this 12-player, 11-round event organized by the NCFP and backed by the PSC and POC.

Mordido slipped to third from a share of first with 4.5 points after scoring just half a point in the last two rounds including a seventh-round draw with Woman FIDE Master Cherry Ann Mejia.

At fourth with four points each were WFM Shania Mae Mendoza, Mejia and resurgent WGM Janelle Mae Frayna. After a horrendous start, the topseeded Frayna has come back to life by scoring 3.5 points in the last five rounds including two straight wins over Mordido and Mendoza in the last two.

Go coasts to 4-shot Palos Verdes romp

DAVAO—With a commanding lead, Lloyd Go turned the final round of the ICTSI Palos Verdes Championship into a victory lap here Friday, essaying a four-stroke victory over Michael Bibat and Guido van der Valk despite a 74 at the Rancho Palos Verdes and Sports Club.

Go’s stellar performance, highlighted by a 65 in the third round, established him as the frontrunner by a significant eight-stroke advantage over Nilo Salahog, Sean Ramos and Angelo Que. Despite final round setbacks, he stayed focused and produced a clutch birdie on the par-3 17th to secure the victory.

The 28-year-old Seton Hall U product expressed his joy at finally breaking through after years of playing professionally. He acknowledged the pressure but remained composed, playing strategically to maintain his lead throughout the round.

“I’ve been playing for so many years and haven’t won,” said Go, who turned pro in 2018. “But I finally broke the barrier and I’m really happy. Now, I can say that I’m an accomplished pro.”

Go cracked under pressure after birdying No. 1, slipping with bogeys on Nos. 2, 6 and 11 and a double bogey on No. 5. Yet, these blips hardly mattered as his pursuers either ran out of holes or struggled in the stretch, paving the way for the former national team standout’s unimpeded match to a maiden victory on a 12-under 276 total worth P350,000.

Bibat and van der Valk, trailing Go by 12 and 13 strokes, respectively, after 54 holes, respectively, mounted their comeback in the third-to-last flight with a pair of low rounds in sweltering heat.

Bibat’s near-flawless 66 and van der Valk’s eagle-aided 65 narrowed the gap to just three shots in the final stretch. However, Go’s substantial advantage proved too big a lead to overcome, leaving his challengers depleted of energy in their pursuit.

Bibat and van der Valk wound up with identical 280s and halved the combined P360,000 second and third prizes.

PH’s defense pleases coach Saintfiet despite loss to Iraq

By Peter Atencio

THE Philippines’ strong defense held until the 84th minute, before the Filipinos suffered a 0-1 loss to Iraq on Friday in their third match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

New coach Tom Saintfiet said the defensive stance of the young Filipino side was impressive when action ended before 65,000 cheering and jeering fans at the Basra International Stadium in Iraq.

The Filipinos, who still gave Saintfiet a fitting debut with their tough defensive attitude, was able to deflect at least 14 attacks before Mohamad Ali Khadin finally scored in the 84th minute.

“The progress is very good. I think we need to be competitive with Vietnam and Indonesia and I’m impressed with my players that in a short period of time, we could be difficult opponents for Iraq,

Smart Omega Empress team captain Mery Christine “Meraaay” Vivero (center) is joined by Smart Omega COO

Patrick Cruz and Team Manager Rianne Magsino at the Women in Sports Awards Night.

but in five days time, we will play again and we need to be fresh. Hopefully, we get to surprise Iraq in Manila again,” said Saintfiet after the match.

Team Philippines’ defense was so tight, that the mammoth crowd was already booing the Lions of Mesopotamia for not scoring a goal, until Ali took in a long pass, after getting past a wall of Filipino defenders, flicking the ball past a chasing Neil Etheridge for their lone goal.

“We knew the qualities of Iraq, the wingbacks and the wings. We tried to close the errors and it was clear that for most of the time, Iraq had no answer

By

but they won so in the end, they did everything right. We started three days ago, I saw my players for the first time. Some on Monday and some on Tuesday,” added Saintfiet. Etheridge one of the experienced players of the team, kept the Iraqis at bay in the first half, stopping Ali from scoring a goal thrice in the first half, while tough defense kept the Lions from making six good attempts during the initial 45 minutes. The big crowd started to jeer at the Iraqis as the Filipino side held until the last 16 minutes of the contest.

“The Iraqi team, for most of the time, had no solution against the tactical discipline of the Philippines. We analyzed Iraq,” said Sainfiet.

The Filipino side will return to Manila this weekend for their second match against Iraq at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on Tuesday night.

Smart Omega Empress honored at Women in Sports Awards Night

SMART Communications, Inc. (Smart) continues to celebrate the achievements of young Filipina athletes.

Smart congratulates the bemedaled Smart Omega Empress, for their citation during the first Women in Sports Awards given by the Philippine Sports Commission, in celebration of Women’s Month.

This recognition puts the spotlight on talented and inspiring Filipina athletes who serve as role models for future women heroes. Smart Omega Empress team captain Mery Christine “Meraaay” Vivero received the award on behalf of the team, joined by Smart Omega COO Patrick Cruz and Team Manager Rianne Magsino at the Women in Sports Awards Night. Powered by Smart, Smart Omega Empress has represented the country and won in various local and international tournaments; finishing as champions in the recent Queen’s League S3 Qualifiers, ELG FE Tournament, Unipin Ladies Championship PH S2, Female Pro League (FEPL), Realme Cup Women’s S1, AC Esports FE League S10, ranked first at the SIBOL qualifiers selection, silver medalist in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in 2023, and third place at the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Women’s Invitational.

Letran, Perpetual clash for NCAA junior cage crown

Dennis Abrina

LEGACY or history will be made when defending champion Letran and top-seeded Perpetual Help clash for all the marbles in Game 3 Saturday of the National Collegiate Athletic Association Season 99 Junior Basketball Finals at the FilOil EcoOil Center in San Juan City. The Junior Altas of coach Joph Cleopas forced a deciding third game against the Squires of coach Allen Ricardo in Game 2 after a pulsating 91-90 win, with JD Pagulayan leading the Perpetual assault following a key double-double performance of 23 points and 10 boards.

Amiel Acido played like the MVP that he was in the elimination round after coming through big when it mattered most, hitting the clutch baskets and making the right plays late to will the Jr. Altas to the series-equalizing and Game 3-forging triumph.

The Squires took Game 1, 97-80.

Letran is seeking back-to-back titles and a 14th title overall in order to firm up its legacy, while Perpetual is seeking a date with history if it wins its first basketball crown, a feat it has not achieved since joining the league in 1984.

The goal of the Dr. Antonio Tamayo-owned squad is to end the school’s 40-year title drought as the Junior Altas are the only Perpetual Help basketball team that does not have an NCAA title.

“It’s just one win. I thank God, I asked God for this, I promised him and acknowledged Him, to share His word. God is the best, we have not done anything yet, but I thank the boys, they fight. God is good,” said Cleopas. “I invite you all, my dear Perpetualites to support our team to come and watch our game to give pride, we need you, win or lose, we want to be here to support Perpetual Altas,” he added.

For the Squires, they need to leave behind the painful memory of Game2 when their 19-point second-quarter lead evaporated and blew again another chance in the dying seconds after missing three crucial, pressure-packed foul shots.

But one thing Letran must muster to recover lost ground is bring the fire back in Moses Manalili, who was held to just 12 points in Game 2 after a 35-point eruption in the opener.

“Ini-scout namin siya,” said Cleopas, referring to Manalili who was his former player back when he was coaching a high school squad back home in Cebu City.

Lloyd Go holds his ICTSI Palos Verdes Championship trophy. Manny Marcelo

Philippine booter Kevin Ingresso (left) in a one-on-one with Ibrahim Bayesh of Iraq. PFF

Perpetual’s JD Pagulayan scores inside. Dennis Abrina

By Patricia Taculao-Deligero

SUMMER is a time for kicking back, relaxing, and soaking up the sun. But it can also be a time for refreshing your wardrobe, gearing up for

or sprucing up your home for entertainment.

By Abigail Adriatico

WITH the summer season drawing closer as March is about to end, it could only mean one thing—the dreaded days of the piping hot sun and high temperatures are also near.

Aiming to help consumers beat the summer heat, electronics company TCL has unveiled its newest CoolPro FreshIN 2.0 Breathe+ Live Cool Inverter Air Conditioner.

The new air conditioner boasts a variety of features geared towards improving the lives of consumers through solving challenges such as the presence of pollutants within enclosed air conditioned environments like total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), high electricity consumption, and the need for more smarter and efficient cooling products.

Packed with a wide array of advanced components

The inverter air conditioner features its own air circulation system which has the capacity to exhaust pollutants away from a room and replenish the air supply within the enclosed space through the use of the air outside.

It also has an air purification system of its own which utilizes its QuadruPuri Filters. Its preliminary filters block large dust particles while its silver ion antibacterial layer blocks bacterias and viruses. Its HEPA high efficiency filter blocks out PM2.5 particles while its last high-density filter squeezes tiny particles so that no harmful elements can reach the user.

Apart from this, the air conditioner also has a visible air quality indicator which shows the current AC setting and air quality as well as a reminder if a filter is in need of a replacement. It also has a 4-Step Auto Clean feature, a cooling speed of 30 seconds, and the capability to ensure that the temperature stays within the user’s desired setting.

The FreshIN 2.0 also has an advanced AI chip which follows the algorithm of its user’s preferences in directing the system to function within optimal and efficient levels as well as enhance its energy saving capabilities. It also has an Internet of Things (IoT) capability which allows users to control the system wherever they may be through the use of the TCL Home app as long as the

precious time and energy better spent soaking up the sunshine.

One e-commerce platform that can meet the consumers’ demands is Shopee. For Filipinos, Shopee has become more than just an e-commerce platform – it’s a one-stop shop for summer fun. It’s where you can snag amazing deals on everything you need to make the most of the season. Think trendy swimsuits for that beach trip, inflatable pool floats for backyard fun, or even grilling essentials for your next barbecue. Shopee caters to every summer whim, all conveniently accessible through your phone. This summer, expect Shopee to be a treasure trove of sizzling deals. Look forward to flash sales, deep discounts, and exclusive vouchers that can slash prices on your summer essentials. Shopee also loves celebrating with themed sales and gamified promotions, making shopping an exciting adventure.

But here’s the secret: Filipinos are “diskarte” (resourceful) shoppers, and maximizing these deals takes some savvy moves. Look for themed campaigns like Shopee’s monthly mega sales or platform-wide sales with massive discounts and free shipping vouchers.

Here’s a valuable tip: when you download Shopee on your phone, enable the notifications to stay updated on upcoming sales, flash deals, and new vouchers.

You can also follow your favorite brands and shops on Shopee to receive exclusive deals and notifications about upcoming summer sales. This

way, you can grab those limitedtime offers before they disappear. Remember to follow Shopee itself Turn to C2

SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 2024

advertise@manilastandard.net

5 ways to stay cool this summer

By Patricia Taculao-Deligero

THE Philippines cranks up the heat in the summer, transforming the tropical paradise into a sizzling landscape.

Temperatures routinely soar past 30 degrees Celsius, with some regions reaching scorching highs in the upper 30s. Humidity adds another layer of discomfort, creating a thick, almost suffocating atmosphere.

Luckily, there are some ways we can combat the scorching heat–especially in the comforts of our own homes. One efficient way is maximizing an air conditioning system to bring temperatures down. Here are some

ways to make the most out of this cooling technology.

1. Pick the right air conditioning system Investing in an air conditioner with inverter technology is a game-changer. Unlike traditional models, inverters adjust their power output to maintain a consistent temperature. It translates to significant energy savings, a welcome benefit considering the constant use of ACs during summer. Plus, inverter units operate more quietly, allowing a peaceful escape from the heat.

2. Schedule your air conditioning Modern air-conditioners often come with programmable timers or smartphone apps. Utilize these features to your advantage. Set the AC to turn on just before you arrive home or wake up, ensuring a cold environment for your comfort and convenience. On the other hand, program it to shut down when you leave for work or at night when temperatures naturally drop. This way, you maximize comfort while minimizing energy waste.

3. Don’t forget about maintenance Just like any appliance, air conditioners require regular maintenance to function optimally. Schedule professional cleaning at least once a year to remove dust and debris from the filters and coils. Clean filters allow for better airflow, resulting in more efficient cooling and lower energy bills. But if you’re a do-it-yourself person, ensure you’ll do it appropriately. Consult experts beforehand or find a credible YouTube channel to learn the basics.

Become a Portrait Expert with the new OPPO Reno11 F 5G

The more accessible variant from the Reno11 Series 5G takes quality photos and boasts a distinct nature-inspired design.

SINCE it launched the highly-renowned Reno Series in 2019, OPPO continues to prove why its Portrait Experts are unmatched in terms of innovations in smartphone imaging capabilities, consistently working with industry experts across the globe.

This time around, OPPO has introduced a new addition to the Reno Series that appeals to more Filipinos with an eye for photography – the OPPO Reno11 F 5G. Packed with a camera system that is sure to capture stunning photos and videos, the OPPO Reno11 F 5G will turn special moments into lasting masterpieces.

Anyone can level up their mobile photography game with these simple steps to unleash the Portrait Expert in them:

Embrace Natural Light with a Capable Camera

Lighting plays an important role in capturing stunning photos, so seek out natural light whenever it is possible. Whether it’s the soft glow of dawn or the golden hour during sunset, natural light can enhance the mood and clarity of your photos. The OPPO Reno11 F 5G’s 64MP main camera has an OmniVision OV64B sensor with a f/1.7 aperture lens that can help you capture the nuances of natural light, so you can take photos that stand out and shine. Discover Hidden Perspectives with Wide Angles You can explore the world from new angles with the OPPO Reno11 F 5G’s 8MP Ultra-Wide camera. Taking timeless photos from your travels has never been this exciting with the OPPO Reno11 F 5G. Capture expansive landscapes, bustling cities, or towering architectures or even “Gen Z” selfies with ease. The wide angle lens of the OPPO Reno11 F G allows you to be more creative and tell richer and immersive stories through your photographs.

Capture Moments, Not Just Poses in Portraits Mobile photography is more than just striking a pose. It is also about capturing genuine moments and stories worth telling through its lens. The OPPO Reno11 F 5G’s Portrait Expert Engine allows you to snap authentic portraits that bring out the true essence of your subjects. By experimenting with OPPO Reno11 F 5G’s different portrait modes and settings, you can bring out the personality and character of your subjects.

The Portrait Expert Engine employs advanced features such as Subject/Scene Separation, Skin Tone Protection, Clarity and Facial Enhancement, and Portrait and Environment Merging. These technologies work seamlessly to capture stunning portraits with accurate tones, reduced noise in low-light conditions, and optimal HDR policies for each picture.

Take Selfies with Clear, Crisp Quality

The front camera of the OPPO Reno11 F 5G features a high-resolution

4. Look into zone cooling Consider zone cooling with a multi-split system if you have a large home. It allows you to cool only the areas with the most traffic and use, reducing energy consumption. For example, keep the bedrooms cold at night and focus on living areas during the day. By strategically

using air conditioning with a focus on efficiency, you can create a comfortable haven throughout the scorching Philippine summer.

5. Strategic cooling for maximum efficiency

Strategic air conditioner placement plays a crucial role. Avoid placing units directly in sunlight, as the heat from the sun forces them to work harder. Opt for shaded areas or rooms with minimal heat-generating electronics. Additionally, ensure proper air circulation by keeping vents clear and furniture away from them. It allows cool air to flow freely throughout the room, maximizing its effectiveness. You can also set your thermostat to a comfortable yet sensible temperature, between 24°C and 26°C.

Philippine summers don’t have to be uncomfortable every time. You can enjoy the clear skies and sunshine without breaking a sweat with the ideal air-conditioning system set at your place. Moreover, regular maintenance and strategic cooling can help lower costs and maximize efficiency to ensure a cool, comfortable summer.

for platform-wide promotions, and check out the Shopee Games section, which lets you earn additional discounts and Shopee Coins through fun mini-games.

However, Shopee isn’t the only e-commerce platform that curates to the public’s needs. What happens then if you suddenly crave something? The usual answer is to go out and satisfy that craving. But with the summer heat, going outside doesn’t seem too comfortable. The answer? Have a food delivery service bring it over. GrabFood has become an essential part of the Filipino lifestyle, offering a convenient and delicious way to satisfy any craving. Whether a quick lunch break at the office or a movie night with friends, GrabFood delivers your favorite meals straight to your doorstep. Filipinos have embraced the GrabFood experience for its ease of use, vast selection of restaurants, and lightning-fast deliveries.

This summer, expect GrabFood to sizzle with even hotter deals! They’ll likely cook up enticing summer-themed promotions featuring refreshing drinks, delicious frozen treats, and dishes perfect for poolside parties, beach bonfires, or anything to keep the summer heat at bay. Keep an eye out for discounts on meals ideal for sharing with friends and family, as Filipinos love to celebrate summer with big gatherings.

Maximize your GrabFood savings this summer by checking the app regularly for ongoing promotions and discount codes. Many restaurants offer exclusive deals through GrabFood, so browse your favorite spots to see their hidden gems. Additionally, consider taking advantage of GrabFood’s subscription services, which often come with free deliveries or special discounts. By planning your meals and strategically using promos, you can turn GrabFood into your go-to partner for a fun and practical summer filled with delicious food.

Now that you’ve found your choices from your preferred e-commerce platforms. How then can you have them delivered to you? Sure, Shopee and GrabFood have their designated delivery

providers and riders, but what about Facebook Marketplace and similar sites?

One option worth exploring is Lalamove.

Lalamove has become an essential part of the Filipino summer experience. Just like the vibrant jeepneys and refreshing halo-halo, Lalamove is there to make your summer smoother and more enjoyable. Imagine whipping up a delicious boodle fight for a beach party – Lalamove can deliver all the ingredients and grilling supplies right to your sandcastle. Need a new floatie or beach umbrella for a day of fun? Lalamove can pick it up and bring it to you in a flash.

Keep an eye on Lalamove as it keeps the good vibes flowing with exciting deals. They might offer discounts on specific delivery types, like motorcycle deliveries for last-minute beach essentials or truck deliveries for bulky summer furniture. There could even be promo codes for new users or partnerships with popular summer destinations.

To maximize your summer fun with Lalamove, a little planning goes a long way. Download the app and familiarize yourself with the different vehicle options to ensure you choose the right fit for your delivery needs. Be sure to check the app notifications for ongoing promotions and promo codes. When placing your order, consider combining items from nearby stores to potentially qualify for free or discounted deliveries. With a little savvy and Lalamove by your side, you can unlock a summer filled with convenience and endless possibilities.

By cleverly utilizing the deals and services offered by e-commerce platforms like Shopee and Grab, you can transform your Filipino summer into an experience overflowing with affordability, convenience, and endless fun. Moreover, leveraging services like Lalamove can open new opportunities where you can explore other e-commerce platforms to get whatever it is you need to enjoy the season. So, this summer, embrace the power of e-commerce and unlock a season filled with unforgettable memories.

Xiaomi’s 2023 adjusted net profit soars 126.3% to RMB19.3 billion

Stellar performance highlights Xiaomi’s agility and e ciency in business operations

BEIJING, Hong Kong—Xiaomi Corp., a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company with smartphones and smart hardware connected by an Internet of Things (“IoT”) platform at its core, announced its audited consolidated results for the year ended December 31, 2023 (“the Period”). In 2023, the Group’s total revenue was RMB271.0 billion, while its adjusted net profit surged by 126.3% to reach RMB19.3 billion.

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× Home” smart ecosystem. In terms of business performance, the first half of 2023 saw accelerated profit growth, followed by a quarterly revenue rebound in the latter half of the year. Both indicators reflect the Group’s exceptional growth resilience and efficiency in business operations. As for the ecosystem development, Xiaomi unveiled its new operating system, “Xiaomi HyperOS” and held the Xiaomi EV Technology Launch event. The Xiaomi SU7 Series product launch event is scheduled for March 28, 2024, which is set to further enrich the Group’s ecosystem portfolio.

Premiumization drives robust demand for flagship smartphone models In the smartphone segment, Xiaomi’s global smartphone shipments reached approximately 145.6 million units in 2023, with annual smartphone revenue hitting RMB157.5 billion and a gross profit margin of 14.6%. According to Canalys, Xiaomi maintained its No. 3 global smartphone shipments for three consecutive years. In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Group’s global smartphone shipments amounted to 40.5 million units, up 23.9% YoY. Facing intense market competition, Xiaomi continued to embrace technology innovation and made a stride in the premium smartphone market. In 2023, the average selling price (“ASP”) of the Group’s smartphones in mainland China increased by over 19% YoY. According to third-party data, Xiaomi’s market share of smartphone sales in the RMB4,000-RMB6,000 price segment in mainland China reached 16.9% in 2023, up by 9.2 percentage points YoY. The ranking of sales in the same price segment rose to No. 1 in the fourth quarter. In mainland China, Xiaomi’s proportion of premium smartphones in mainland China (models with retail prices at or above RMB3,000) shipment represented more than 20% of the Group’s total smartphone shipments for the year. As one of China’s most successful global brands, Xiaomi smartphones maintained a solid position in the global market last year. According to Canalys,

in 2023, Xiaomi’s smartphone shipments ranked among the top three across 51 countries and regions globally and ranked among the top five across 65 countries and regions globally. Specifically, Xiaomi’s smartphone shipments

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THIS year, the Philippines will solely be represented in Google Play’s Indie Games Accelerator (IGA) program by one-woman game developer and publisher Camilla Santiago, also known as CLOVER-FI Games.

Santiago is known for her indie mobile game Window Garden, the beta version of which was released on Google Play back in October 2021, created after she learned app development during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Window Garden—an idle game that lets players plant and decorate their own virtual indoor garden and relax in its chill vibes, lofi music, and cottagecore aesthetic—has been well-received by gamers, with a 4.7-star rating right now on the platform.

The Google Play IGA is a 10-week course designed for high-potential indie

that different operators are involved in the development of the malware, with Kaspersky experts having seen Grandoreiro operating as a Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS) project. The prolific banking malware targets more than 900 financial institutions in more than 40 countries in North and Latin America, and Europe.

data, has been active since at least 2016. Attacks using Grandoreiro frequently start with a spear-phishing email written in Spanish, Portuguese or English. Once installed on a victim machine, the trojan tracks keyboard inputs, simulates mouse activity, shares screens, collecting data such as usernames, operating system information, device runtime and, most importantly, bank identifiers. With full control over victims’ bank accounts, criminals empty them, sending funds through a money mule network to launder the illicit proceeds.

The trojan has many versions, which might indicate

As part of the current joint effort, Kaspersky along with INTERPOL’s other private partners contributed to the analysis of Grandoreiro malware samples, gathered by Brazilian and Spanish national cybercrime investigations between 2020 and 2022. In 2020-2022, Kaspersky products detected 150,000 attacks with the use of Grandoreiro banking trojan on 40,000 users worldwide. Brazil, Spain, Mexico, Portugal, Argentina, and the USA turned out to be the most affected countries.

As a result, by August 2023, analytical reports had been produced that had identified overlaps between the samples, allowing investigators to close in on the organized crime group.

“We have been witnessing Grandoreiro’s campaigns since at least 2016. Over time, the attackers have been regularly improving techniques, striving to stay undetected and active for longer periods of time. In

ranked No. 2 in the Middle East, and ranked No. 3 in Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia, with market share growth in all these regions. Its flagship smartphone model garnered widespread acclaim, with the Xiaomi 14 series delivering excellent user experience.

Xiaomi’s new retail operating strategy of “storefront integration” has borne fruit, with a significant improvement in the efficiency of its offline retail stores. According to third-party data, in the full year of 2023, Xiaomi’s market share of smartphone shipments through offline channels in mainland China increased to 8.4%. The number of connected IoT devices on the AIoT platform hit a record high and garnered widespread acclaim in overseas markets In 2023, revenue from Xiaomi’s IoT and lifestyle products was RMB80.1 billion and its gross profit margin reached 16.3%, hitting a record high. As of December 31, 2023, the number of connected IoT devices (excluding smartphones, tablets, and laptops) on Xiaomi’s AIoT platform reached 739.7 million, up 25.5% YoY; the number of users with five or more devices connected to its AIoT platform (excluding smartphones, tablets and laptops) reached 14.5 million, an increase of 25.3% YoY. The MAU of the Group’s Mi Home App grew to 85.8 million in December 2023. Xiaomi continued to broaden its smart living scenarios, steadily gaining global recognition. Meanwhile, Xiaomi TV advanced its premiumization strategy. According to All View Cloud, in 2023, Xiaomi’s TV shipments ranked among the top five globally. In 2023, Xiaomi’s smart large home appliances have sustained a high growth momentum in sales, with its revenue increasing by nearly 40% YoY. Xiaomi’s global tablet shipments exceeded 5 million units, an increase of more than 50% YoY. In particular, Xiaomi’s annual tablet shipments in overseas markets doubled YoY. In the wearable products sector, Xiaomi maintains its industry-leading position through comprehensive features and a diverse product portfolio. According to Canalys, in 2023, Xiaomi’s wearable band shipments ranked No. 2 both in mainland China and in global markets, and its TWS earbud shipments ranked No. 2 in mainland China.

game studios to access the best of Google’s programs, products, people, and technology to be able to build and improve a successful organization.

The last Philippine representative in the program was Ranida Games, which had created one-on-one fighting game Vita Fighters and improved it through the benefits granted by the IGA.

In the same vein, Santiago’s goal is to create cozy games that are accessible to everyone through mobile platforms, and the IGA is set to equip her with the skills and experience needed to create another hit like Window Garden, as well as a potentially successful career in game development. Download Window Garden, Vita Fighters, and other noteworthy indie games on Google Play now.

Kaspersky along with INTERPOL’s other private partners contributed to the analysis of Grandoreiro malware samples. these circumstances, it is extremely important for financial institutions to stay vigilant while also improving their antifraud technologies and threat intelligence data. Greater synergy between private and public partners is also pivotal for combating against such cybercrimes and ensuring a safer environment for users and organizations worldwide,” comments Fabio Assolini, head of the Latin American Global Research and Analysis Team (GReAT) at Kaspersky. Emphasizing the importance of a collective approach, Craig Jones, Director of INTERPOL’s Cybercrime unit, said: “This operational success vividly underscores the importance of sharing

intelligence through INTERPOL, and why we are committed to acting as a bridge between public and private sectors. It also sets the stage for further cooperation in the region.”

As trojan families, like Grandoreiro, have been actively expanding abroad, Kaspersky experts expect to see increased exploitation of mobile banking trojans. According to the company’s predictions for crimeware and financial threats in 2024, we might see Brazilian banking trojans trying to fill the void left by desktop banking trojans, with the resurgence of these trojans becoming one of the trends dominating the financial threat landscape this year.

CLOVER-FI Games

SATURDAY,

Raising the bar: Why Filipinos flock towards Shopee’s user-centric experience

FILIPINOS are known for their value-conscious mindset, and their natural instinct to look for good quality items at bargain prices is among the key factors that fuel the local e-commerce landscape. In a space where industry players fiercely compete with deals and price drops, Shopee’s prioritization for user experiences stands out.

From intuitive navigation to a vast selection of products and efficient deliveries, every step is meticulously designed to ensure a seamless user journey. With a strong commitment to user satisfaction, Shopee delivers exceptional service at every touchpoint, making it the go-to e-commerce platform in the country.

Providing the perfect blend of quality and affordability

Rooted from the frugality of Filipino shoppers, Shopee understands that maximizing value goes beyond cheaper prices—it’s about finding quality items that won’t break the bank. This is why under its Mas Mura sa Shopee initiative, the platform houses a wide selection of products from trusted brands and sellers that are priced more affordably than elsewhere.

As a destination where affordability and quality go hand-in-hand, Shopee captivates budget-conscious shoppers with the reliable quality of the products at marked-down prices.

Building an experiential online shopping ecosystem

At the forefront of Shopee’s innovations is a rich content ecosystem that seamlessly integrates with the shopping experience, transforming the platform from a digital marketplace into a vibrant, experiential hub.

For instance, Shopee Live allows users to interact directly with sellers real time and in turn, sellers are given an avenue to create a deeper connection with their audiences. On the other hand, the platform’s newest feature, Shopee Video, encourages sellers and creators to put out creative product executions for buyers to enjoy.

More than being a shopping platform, it has evolved into a dynamic space where sellers, buyers, and even creators can embark on unique journeys.

Prioritizing fast and secure deliveries

Shopee prioritizes a smooth and worry-free shopping experience, and that extends to ensuring orders arrive quickly and safely. By partnering with reliable logistics providers, Shopee is able to deliver purchases efficiently

To expedite deliveries even further, the platform has introduced the Fast Shipping Program among sellers to encourage them to ship out orders within a day. By filtering options under the Fast Shipping tab, users are led to sellers who participate in the program and can enjoy guaranteed same-day shipment upon payment. With this feature, shoppers can be confident that their purchases are on their way faster, allowing them to enjoy their orders sooner.

At the end of the day, Shopee is all about providing a user-centric, experiencedriven journey for Filipino shoppers. More than being a shopping platform, Shopee is dedicated to giving a seamless, enjoyable online shopping experience.