Manila Standard - 2024 March 26 - Tuesday

PH, China in WPS call

Manila, Beijing trade diplomatic protests over latest clash

By Rey Requejo

MANILA

China making “stern representations”

As pertussis

THE Department of Justice urged expelled Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo Teves Jr. to face the charges against him in the Philippines, not before any international body like the United Nations Human Rights Council.

“We do not recognize or acknowledge any camp that refuses to go through our own justice system,” Justice Assistant Secretary Jose Dominic Clavano said, reacting to the plan of Teves’ lawyers both in the Philippines and in Timor-Leste to elevate the expelled legistator’s case before the UNHRC.

“The brutal crimes happened here in the Philippines. The families of the victims are here in the Philippines. So, we want justice to be served here in the Philippines,” Clavano added.

Meanwhile, the National Bureau of Investigation said it could take as fast as a week to as long as 40 days to have Teves deported from Timor Leste, where he was arrested last week.

For his part, Teves’ lawyer Ferdinand Topacio said they are ready should the former lawmaker and designated terrorist be repatriated back to Manila.

“We’re ready for anything. Even if he is sent back to the Philippines, there will still be a trial. So let’s see what evidence they have against him,” Topacio said in a television interview yesterday.

NBI Director Medardo De Lemos, who led the Philippine delegation to Timor Leste last

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE incidence of pertussis or whooping cough in Metro Manila is stabilizing, but rising in other regions, the Department of Health (DOH) said Monday.

Meanwhile, the Iloilo City government has officially declared an outbreak of pertussis.

The Bacolod City government, on the other hand, issued on Monday a health alert against pertussis following report that a minor was admitted at a local hospital on suspicion of whooping cough infection.

For its part, the Taguig City government urged residents to take precautions against pertussis.

DOH Undersecretary Eric Tayag said many areas in the country are on alert over the pertussis breakout, particularly among children.

“About 10 regions had an increase in pertussis cases. In NCR, cases are plateauing. This means that the cases in NCR are not increasing as much as we expected,” Tayag said.

At least 453 people nationwide were infected by pertussis within just the first 10 weeks of 2024. Of this

Rescuers clear the road in front of the dump

on

Security sector meets on sea attacks

THE national security sector of the Cabinet met on Monday to discuss the China Coast Guard’s latest harassment against a Philippine resupply mission in the West Philippine Sea, Malacañang said.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin presided over the meeting, the Presidential Communications Office said.

‘’The national security sector held a meeting today. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin presided over the meeting that tackled the latest incident in the West Philippine Sea and ways moving forward,’’ PCO Secretary Cheloy Garafil said.

PH,...

From A1

Ayungin Shoal last week, leaving three Filipino soldiers injured.

The Philippines summoned a Chinese envoy and filed a démarche or a diplomatic protest in Beijing over “aggressive actions” by the China Coast Guard and other vessels.

The Chinese Embassy in Manila filed its own diplomatic protest over what it claimed as an “illegal trespassing of Philippine resupply vessels” near

Other details were not immediately available.

Over the weekend, Unaizah May 4 (UM4), which was carrying supplies for Filipino troops stationed at BRP Sierra Madre, “sustained heavy damage,’’ according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines, due to the ‘’continued blasting of water cannons” from two

Ayungin Shoal. Beijing also claimed the deputy foreign ministers of both countries held a tense phone call yesterday.

“Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong held a phone call with Philippine deputy foreign secretary (Maria Theresa) Lazaro, and made stern representations on issues including the Philippines’ transportation of supplies to the illegally ‘beached’ military ship on Ren’ai Reef,” China’s foreign ministry said in a statement, using the Chinese name for Ayungin Shoal in the Spratly Islands.

Chen said he told Lazaro that “China-Phil-

#ANONGBALITA

PAWS says Killua tested positive for rabies via BAI

THE slaughtered golden retriever Killua tested positive for rabies, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) said Monday.

PAWS Director Anna Cabrera said the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) conducted tests to determine Killua’s status over the weekend.

Anthony Solares, a neighbor of the dog’s owner and a village watchman, allegedly killed Killua on March 17 in Camarines Sur because the dog supposedly chased his child.

But surveillance footage shared by Killua’s owner, Vina Rachelle Arazas, showed Solares striking Killua as the dog attempted to flee.

The cruelty has sparked public outrage under the hashtag #JusticeForKillua.

Despite testing positive for rabies, PAWS said it would still push through with its legal action.

PAWS said it aims to file criminal charges against Solares for animal cruelty, citing his alleged brutal treatment of Killua.

The group also plans to hold Solares accountable for violating the Anti-Rabies Act by allegedly engaging in the dog meat trade.

After fatally injuring Killua, Solares allegedly delivered the dog to a known slaughterhouse, which raised alarm about public health risks associated with consuming dog meat.

Cabrera urged those who might have been bitten by Killua to seek rabies care immediately.

PAWS also advised anyone who might have consumed meat from the area where Killua was found to get post-exposure shots.

“Dog meat traders are not only cruel people but pose a serious threat to public health,” Cabrera said.

Zanjoe Marudo, Ria Atayde tie the knot In civil rites

JUST over a month after announcing their engagement, celebrity couple Ria Atayde and Zanjoe Marudo are now officially married. The pair tied the knot in a civil wedding ceremony on Saturday, March 23, officiated by Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte.

On Monday, Zanjoe took to Instagram to greet Ria on her 32nd birthday and simultaneously announced their marriage. He addressed her as “wife” in the caption and included the date “03.23.24.”

The post featured a series of photos on what appeared during the ceremony: Ria in a white gown holding a bouquet of flowers; Zanjoe in a tuxedo; a photo of a wedding cake; and a photo of the couple showered with flower petals.

Celebrity friends and family im-

mediately extended their wishes to the newly-married couple.

“Welcome to the family, kuya,” wrote Ria’s sister, Gela Atayde. “Uy wife!! Congrats mr & mrs marudo,” said Angelica Panganiban.

“Happy bday to your wife! And congrats you two,” commented Jake Ejercito.

“Congratulations and best wishes, Z and Ria!” wrote Eula Valdes.

TVJ host Maine Mendoza, wife of Ria’s brother, QC Rep. Arjo Atayde, also posted on her Instagram story a photo of the two hugging each other.

On Feb. 20, Ria announced her engagement to the 41-year-old on her Instagram account. In her post, Ria shared their sweet photos together as well as a snap of her hand with two beautiful rings. “Forever sounds good,” she wrote in the caption. Angelica Villanuva

Boracay hotels getting full amid Holy Week break

TOURIST magnet Boracay is getting full entering the Holy Week break, a member of the Boracay Foundation board of directors said Monday.

“Not at 100% full but it’s getting there. Some rooms are still available,” Neneth Graf, of the Boracay Foundation said in a TeleRadyo Serbisyo interview.

Graf said tourist arrivals have reached up to 8,000 daily, and reminded the public to transact only with legitimate tour organizers due to the proliferation of online scammers.

But she noted the Department of

China Coast Guard vessels. Still, Philippine forces said the rotation and resupply mission was successful.

oil spills followed by transporting the recovered oil for further disposal.

Gov’t office work suspended by Wednesday noon

Environment and Natural Resources has yet to establish rules on the carrying capacity of Boracay, named 2012’s Best Island in the World by international travel magazine Travel+Leisure. Graf said tourist restrictions to the island paradise have been eased, with dusk to dawn beach parties already allowed. Fire dances are also allowed in front of the Red Coconut Beach Hotel, but smoking and drinking on the beach remain disallowed. Upcoming events on the island include beach volleyball and dragonboat tournaments.

Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro has said President Marcos already has directives on this kind of aggression.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard welcomed the Indian Coast Guard ship Samura Pahererar, which officially visited the country and docked at the Eva Macapagal Terminal at Pier 15 in Manila on Monday.

Samudra Paheredar is the second Pollution Control Vessel of the Indian Coast Guard, uniquely designed for containing, recovering, and dispersing

ippines relations are currently at a crossroads, and the Philippines must act prudently.”

“China once more urges the Philippines to honour its commitments, respect the consensus, stop violating rights and provoking trouble at sea, stop any unilateral action that could complicate the situation, and earnestly return to the correct track of appropriately addressing disagreements through negotiation and consultation,” Chen said.

Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, for his part, challenged Beijing to seek arbitration, which he said was the “best way of solving a legal dispute sustainably.”

DOJ...

From

“The purpose of the trip was exploratory and to determine if Teves was there... It’s a major victory for us to have located Cong. Teves and to have him arrested by the local authorities,” he said.

The ship is based at Visakhapatnam on the Eastern Seaboard of India, under the Administrative and Operational Control of the Commander Coast Guard Region (East).

During the four-day day port visit, the ship’s crew will undertake a series of activities such as community support program. A walkathon, beach clean-up, facility tour, subject matter expert exchanges, passing honors, and a sporting event to foster camaraderie and people-to-people engagement between PCG and ICG personnel are planned. Vince Lopez

“That’s why they don’t like that,” Teodoro told reporters.

The Department of Foreign Affairs on Monday said some 20 countries have already backed the Philippines following the recent incident in Ayungin Shoal.

“The DFA thanks the international community for their continued expressions of support to the Philippines and the defense of the international order based on international law,” DFA spokesperson Daza said.

“To date, some 20 countries/partners have issued statements of support,” she added. With AFP

PRESIDENT Marcos is suspending work in government offices on March 27 (Wednesday) from 12 noon onwards to give its employees “full opportunity” to observe Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, the Presidential Communications Office said.

Mr. Marcos ordered this through Memorandum Circular No. 45 signed on his behalf by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Monday.

It also intends to allow government workers “to travel to and from the different regions in the country, work in government offices.”

Meanwhile, President Marcos also expressed support for Catherine, Princess of Wales, who earlier announced that she had been diagnosed with cancer and was in early stages of chemotherapy.

Mr. Marcos took to social media on Monday to send his well wishes to Catherine, joining world leaders, celebrities and the public in cheering the British princess, wife of Crown Prince William.

“The Filipino people have Catherine, the Princess of Wales, in our thoughts and prayers throughout this challenging time,” Mr. Marcos said in an X (formerly Twitter) post. Vince Lopez

the UN human rights body.

“UN bodies cannot give succor, as they are not a refuge to scoundrels.

Big price...

From A1

big 3 refineries; the reduction of Iraq crude exports; the big draw from US crude and gasoline stockpiles; and the stronger demand and economic growth of US and China,” she said.

On March 12, the oil companies implemented a per liter rollback of P0.50, P0.25 and P0.30 for gasoline, diesel,

High Court...

From A1

In his speech during the launch of the Dagupan City Justice Zone, Justice Undersecretary Raul Vasquez said the SC is expected to amend Rule 112 of the Rules of Court by taking out preliminary investigation, “thus paving the way for a new paradigm in criminal investigation and prosecution.”

Once the Rule is amended, Vasquez pointed out that the conduct of preliminary investigation “will be the sole and exclusive domain” of the Justice department.

“With a higher degree of proof in filing of cases from probable cause to prima facie evidence with reasonable certainty of conviction and under the case build-up regime where the law enforcement and prosecution now cooperate, coordinate, and collaborate in evidence gathering and preservation, case preparation, assessment of the case, and the like, gone would be the days of frivolous cases, harassment suits, or weaponization of penal laws,” Vasquez said.

“We are truly hopeful that only quality cases would be filed – a development that cuts across the pillars of criminal justice by lowering the dockets in the law enforcement, prosecution, judiciary, and corrections clusters,” he added.

From A1

from

Teves is facing murder charges for the killing of former Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo and others in March 2023. He was arrested last week in Dili, Timor Leste while playing golf.

“There is a court process and from what we understand it may take between seven days to a maximum of 40 days,” he added. De Lemos said Timor Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta, who had a meeting with the Philippine team before Teves was arrested, said he wants the proceedings “finished soon.”

Ibalik na sya dito agad, paharapin sa mga kaso, at panagutin sa kanyang mga krimen dito (Bring him back here and have him face the criminal charges against him here in the Philippines),” De Lima said. Before his arrest, Teves, whose asylum request from the government of Timor Leste was rejected, had been in hiding for about a year.

Former Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, for her part, downplayed the plan of Teves’ lawyers to bring his case to

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, kerosene prices logged a net decrease of 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 for the monitoring period of March 19 to 25. week, said they are aware that the process will take a while.

In an ambush interview, Vasquez said removing the power to conduct of preliminary investigation from judges would result to speedy trial and resolution of cases.

“It will remove the motion for judicial determination of probable cause [ as a legal remedy]. It is the DOJ that will solely conduct the preliminary investigation. After the preliminary investigation, then proceed to trial already because the filing of cases exclusively belong to the DOJ,” Vasquez said.

Citing People v. Castillo and Mejia, the SC held that there are two kinds of determination of probable cause -executive and judicial.

It defined executive determination of probable cause as one made during preliminary investigation by public prosecutors, who are given a broad discretion to determine whether there is probable cause to charge those whom he believes to have committed the crime and be held for trial.

The judicial determination of probable cause, on the other hand, is one made by the judge to ascertain whether a warrant of arrest should be issued against the accused.

The judge must satisfy himself that based on the evidence submitted, there is necessity for placing the accused under custody in order not to frustrate the ends of justice. If the judge finds no probable cause, the judge cannot be forced to issue the arrest warrant.

could rise after a number of seriously injured people were taken to hospital.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has also cancelled his passport. Rey Requejo

As pertussis...

From A1

number, 38 were reported in the National Capital Region alone, followed by Calabarzon and Central Visayas.

The DOH said 35 patients have died from the illness.

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

Tayag said the Quezon City government made an “emergency purchase” of the vaccine to counter pertussis, even as the DOH already provided 1,500 doses to the city.

“There might be other areas that may declare an outbreak. Last week, Iloilo City was about to declare a pertussis outbreak as well,” Tayag said. Pertussis, which is communicable, also causes symptoms akin to flue such as mild fever, colds, and coughs.

Children with pertussis may also experience apnea or the stopping and restarting of breathing while asleep, difficulty in breathing, and vomiting.

The DOH advised parents and guardians to get children aged six weeks to 23 months old the pentavalent vaccine for Diphtheria, Pertussis and Tetanus, Hepatitis B, and Haemophilus Influenza type B (DPT-HepB-HiB).

The DOH has ordered 800,000 to one million doses of these vaccines, which are expected to arrive in the country by June.

The Bacolod City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council declared the outbreak following recommendations from the city government’s Health and Sanitation Cluster and the City Health Office (CHO).

According to the CHO, there are seven confirmed cases of pertussis out of the 13 reported cases in the city as of March 24.

Bacolod Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez’s spokesperson, Caesar Distrito, said the patient is not a resident of Bacolod, but is still included in the surveillance report of the CHO.

possibly because of the impact of the crash. Deadly road accidents are common in the Philippines, where drivers frequently flout the rules and vehicles are often poorly maintained or overloaded. AFP

Cha-cha to make PH $2-t economy—solon

By Maricel V. Cruz

CAMARINES Sur

Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte on Monday appealed to the senators to prioritize passage of their resolution on economic Charter change “to achieve the conditional prospect of the Philippines becoming a $2-trillion economy comparable to Canada, Italy and Brazil.

Villafuerte said such economic growth as projected by the World Economic Forum (WEF) based on what it called the Philippines’s status as the region’s fastest-growing economy, is “contingent on the continued implementation of reforms leading to further investments in infrastructure and education, among others.”

“Hence, the ‘very bullish’ forecast on the Philippines’ economic future by this Geneva-based international organization should serve as a strong impetus for senators to pass RBH 6 (Resolution of Both Houses No. 6) after our March 22-April 28 Lenten break, as part of the further reforms indispensable to scaling up foreign investor interest and generating FDI (foreign direct investments) inflows to the much higher levels enjoyed by our neighbors in the region,” Villafuerte said.

By a vote of 289-7 with two abstentions, the House of Representatives passed last week on third and final reading RBH 7, considered its constitutional reform resolution patterned after RBH 6 that is still being tackled in the Senate—in support of President Marcos’ push for economic reforms in the Charter as a way for more investments to stream into the Philippines.

Lawmaker seeks stronger national anti-TB campaign

A PARTY-LIST congressman seeks a stronger national program to combat the rising incidence of tuberculosis (TB) in the country.

AnaKalusugan Rep. Ray Reyes filed House Bill 9799 seeking to amend Republic Act 10767 or the Comprehensive Tuberculosis Elimination Plan Act.

“The previous global pandemic has highlighted that a lot of healthcare policies need to be updated and future proofed,” said Reyes, vice chairman of the House Committee on Health.

“TB has been a public health emergency for over three decades, yet we

are nowhere close to its eradication. This bill aims to improve healthcare delivery systems that are continuous and can withstand external threats,” he said.

Reyes noted that there are only eight countries that account for 2/3 of the global cases of TB, with the Philippines contributing 7 percent of the global cases.

He noted that TB remains one of the leading causes of death in the Philippines, averaging 70 daily.

“These numbers prove that there is a need to revisit the existing legislation regarding the Philippines’ response to TB,”

Reyes said. The lawmaker expressed support for the plans of the Department of Health (DOH) to deploy ultra-portable X-ray technology in remote areas, but he also recognized that much more needs to be done.

“There is a need to beef up educationdriven campaigns and TB notification and monitoring,” he said.

“Stigma surrounding the disease, availability of funds and medication, as well as places where trea ment and medicine are easily procured must be addressed,” he added. Maricel Cruz

DBM releases P6b for 2024 PFDA budget

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released P6.037 billion for the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) 2024 budget to support the country’s fisheries sector.

“Our shores are more than mere lines on the map. It is among the driving forces of our nation. Enhancing and maintaining strategic and globally competitive fish ports would allow our ships and crews access to essential supplies and services, and for vessel operators to successfully bring in their catches, safeguarding the livelihood of our fishermen,” Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said.

Data from the World Bank revealed that the fisheries contribute 1.3 percent to the Philippines’ gross domestic product (GDP) and roughly 1.6 million jobs or around four percent of the national labor force, which included low-income families engaged in subsistence fishing.

Representing Congress-Introduced changes in appropriations, P1.1 billion will be used for the construction, rehabilitation, and improvement of fish ports and other fishery post-harvest facilities in the country.

The PFDA sustains the operation of the nine regional fish ports particularly those in Navotas, Iloilo, Zamboanga, Camaligan, Lucena, Sual, Davao, General Santos, and Bulan. It likewise jointly manages the Tacloban Fish Port with the local government unit.

PABASA. Religious devotees in San Andres, Manila immerse in the traditional Semana Santa (Holy Week)

Pabasa, a lengthy narrative in rhyme and chime on the life, passion, and death of Jesus Christ. Danny Pata

Solon seeks tighter price monitoring on Holy Week

Heavier penalty for dog cruelty violators sought

By Maricel V. Cruz

CAMARINES Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte said the mounting public outcry over incidents of animal cruelty should be a “wake-up call” for the 19th Congress to toughen up laws promoting and protecting the welfare of all animals.

The latest of which was the brutal killing of a three-year-old Golden Retriever named Killua in Camarines Sur, which was caught on video and has gone viral on social media.

Villafuerte noted that the incident underscores “the increasing consciousness of Filipinos on animal welfare that needs to be matched by our existing laws’ ability to ensure the humane treatment in all aspects of caring, keeping, maintaining, handling, transporting, breeding, selling, training, treating and use of animals, and meting out the appropriate or just punishment to violators.”

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

“We just have to remind them again. Hindi yung every time, nagiging reactive na lang. Dapat talaga proactive,” Revilla said.

According to PAGASA, the El Niño across the tropical Pacific Ocean shows signs of weakening and is expected to persist until March-April-May 2024.

On the other hand, the weather agency said that there is a 55 percent chance for La Niña to develop in June-JulyAugust 2024.

“We always have to be one step ahead. Preparedness is just as important as resilience,” he said.

“Our vulnerability to natural calamities should be our constant reminder to always be equipped to withstand severe weather conditions which are expected given our geographical location,” he added.

Revilla bared that he has been communicating with lead agencies on the matter, and that he is looking into the possibility of conducting another public hearing to solicit updates and to be informed of the preparations of the said agencies. Macon Ramos-Araneta

By Maricel Cruz

AS FISH and vegetable prices rise because of the Holy Week, AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert T. Lee on Monday urged the Department of Agriculture (DA) to enforce stricter price monitoring and set suggested retail price (SRP) on basic commodities.

Lee issued the call after the DA said it was expecting a 10 percent to 20 percent increase in the retail price of fish during the Holy Week even as the department assured there was still an ample supply of fish.

The lawmaker said: “While it is natural for the retail prices of vegetables and fish to go up during the Holy Week there still should be stricter monitoring by the DA

and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on prices of basic goods.

“If there is ample supply of fish, then the price increases should not be so significant even though it is the Holy Week. Huwag naman po nating pabigatin pa ang pasanin ng marami nating kababayan,” he added.

Based on the March 22 monitoring of the DA in Metro Manila markets,

the retail price of milkfish ranged from P150 and P220 per kilo; tilapia, between P120 to P160 per kilo; local round scad, from P180 to P300 per kilo, imported round scad, from P180 to P200 per kilo; and Indian mackerel, between P280 to P350 per kilo.

Moreover, the lawmaker also urged the DA to replicate its price monitoring on a provincial or regional level.

He said currently, only prices in Metro Manila are being monitored by the DA. “Sana ay gawin din ito ng provincial at regional offices para naman hindi lang mga nasa NCR ang makinabang sa price monitoring,” the lawmaker said. He added that the consumers will benefit from the price monitoring nationwide, to make sure items are not overpriced.

‘WATERSCAPES’

EXHIBIT. (From left to

Mela Lasangue, marketing manager, One Ayala; National Artist Benedicto Cabrera; Rep. Luis Campos, 2nd District, Makati City; Makati City Mayor Abby Binay; Gigo Alampay, executive director, CANVAS; Jocot De Dios, Manila Water president and CEO; Claudine Orocio-Isorena, Deputy Administrator for Administration and Legal Affairs, MWSS Regulatory Office; Reginald Andal, Executive Director, Manila Water Foundation; and Manila Water President Jocot De Dios led the opening of the art exhibit “ Waterscapes” at the On Ayala Mall in Makati. The exhibit is part of celebrations of World Water Day. Manny Palmero

DOE, PNP sign pact to implement LPG regulations

By

Alena Mae S. Flores

By Rio N. Araja

THE Social Security System (SSS) is urging overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Singapore to avail of its voluntary provident fund program or the Worker’s Investment and Savings Program (WISP) Plus.

SSS president and CEO Rolando Macasaet, told the 83 OFWs who attended the recent 1st SSS Kapihan sa Singapore to put their hard-earned money in the WISP Plus to build on their retirement savings and augment their pensions.

The SSS is offering to enable members to increase their retirement pension, apart from the benefits they would get under the regular social security program.

“Save your money with us through the WISP Plus and we will take care of it. When you reach the age of 60, you can get it back together with its investment earnings,” Macasaet said.

WISP Plus is an affordable and flexible savings scheme, wherein the members could contribute as low as P500 whenever they want.

“Members can contribute for as low as P500 per payment whenever they want for this additional layer of social security protection. The members’ pooled contributions under WISP Plus will generate investment earnings, which will be credited to their individual accounts, tax-free,” the SSS official said.

THE Department of Energy (DOE) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have joined forces to strictly implement Republic Act No. 11592 or the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Industry Regulation Act (LIRA) to mitigate LPG or cooking gas risks.

The signing of the memorandum of agreement was led by Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla and PNP Chief PGen Benjamin Acorda, which ensures the protection of the interests and general welfare of the public.

“Recognizing the significant risk to both life and property, the government

acknowledges the urgent need to ensure that all activities involving the commerce of LPG meet the highest quality and safety standards,” Lotilla said.

“Hence, strict monitoring and enforcement is paramount to mitigate risks associated with LPG operations and promote responsible and sustainable practices within the industry,” he said.

The MOA fosters collaboration and consultation between the DOE and the PNP to establish and enforce the Oplan LIRA. The PNP, through its Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) shall assist the DOE in the conduct of inspections of LPG facilities, including retail-

ers, refillers, and motor vehicles involved in the transportation of LPG in bulk or LPG cylinders and cartridges.

The PNP shall also investigate potential criminal violations under the LIRA, either upon receiving a report or on its initiative. This includes conducting surveillance, entrapment, filing search warrant applications, and initiating criminal actions against violators. The passage of LIRA has prompted the government to shift focus on consumer welfare and protection, where the DOE has prioritized quality, health, safety, and environmental standards.

“We are hoping that Killua’s senseless death in the hands of its owners’ neighbor would be,” he said, “a wake-up call for the members of both the House of Representatives and the Senate to act on proposed amendatory laws meant to tone up the 26-year-old Animal Welfare Act by establishing a better system of state supervision and regulation for dealing with animals; enhancing public awareness of responsible pet ownership through education and information dissemination; and strengthening interagency, multisectoral and localgovernment cooperation for promoting good animal welfare.”

Villafuerte, president of the National Unity Party and majority leader for the House contingent’s Commission on Appointments, said that in the House, for instance, he has introduced House Bill (HB) 6059 that aims to put more weight on the law by, among others, slapping harsher penalties on errant individuals, establishing a Bureau to be attached to the Department of Agriculture (DA) to safeguard the rights of animals, and deputizing animal welfare enforcement officers with the powers to seize and rescue maltreated or illegally traded animals and arrest violators.

Fire agency told: Ensure safety of gov’t hospitals

By Vince Lopez

THE presidential task force on El Niño has directed the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to inspect and ensure the fire safety of all public hospitals and public health facilities.

During a meeting, task force chairperson and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said that the BFP “must ensure a safe environment for everyone, especially of those seeking healthcare services and of the medical, healthcare service, and related professionals and workers.”

“Together, we must reduce the overall risk of fire-related incidents, accidents, and emergencies, most especially in all public hospitals and public health facilities,” Teodoro emphasized.

Police Captain Umar Aduca, who represented the BFP during the Task Force El Niño meeting, said the BFP “would immediately convey” Teodoro’s guidance to Secretary of Interior and Local Government Benjamin Abalos Jr..

“Fire safety is of paramount importance in order to preserve lives and protect properties,” Aduca said.

By Rio N. Araja

PUBLIC Attorney’s Office (PAO) chief

Persida Acosta has received two prestigious women’s awards for her outstanding leadership in public service.

On March 22, she received the Leadership Excellence in Delivering Proficient Legal Services citation from the Crystal International Women Award-giving body at the Okada Manila in Parañaque City on its third year.

“Thank you for this recognition.

Womanhood is not just a state of being. Womanhood is also a journey of becoming—of discovering one’s talents, giftings, life purpose and identity. And from these realizations, come the appreciation of the positive changes we can uniquely make as women,” she told the organizers and co-awardees as

the nation celebrates March as the National Women’s Month.

The PAO chief is also a recipient of the “Babae Ka Awards”” from the Gawad Pilipino Award organizer, Dr. Danilo Mangahas, at the Armed Forces of the Philippines at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on March 22.

Other awardees included Senator Cynthia Villar; Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, first AFP woman spokesperson; showbiz personality Marietta Subong, better known as “Pokwang”; Daniela Stranner, youth advocate for anti-bullying, and Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, among others.

“Thank you very much to Gawad Pilipino Awards for the honor of being one of the Unique Filipinas in the Field of Public Service. I am happy to be a part of it,” Acosta said.

‘HAPPY WALK.’ SM Prime Holdings executives, led by executive committee chair Hans Sy, joined members of the Down Syndrome Association of the

right)

The continuing saga of now fugitive Quiboloy

THE continuing saga of the Church of Jesus Christ founder and “self-appointed Son of God” Pastor Apollo Quiboloy may well be the last chapter, Santa Banana!

The Senate and the House of Representatives have issued warrants of arrest for the sect’s pastor for continuing to snub summons for his appearance to testify following accusations against him for alleged rape, sexual abuse, human trafficking by witnesses.

But, my gulay, Quiboloy continues to play hide and seek with the warrants of arrest, which now makes him a fugitive. It is said that Quiboloy is now in the highlands of Davao.

The Senate had given Quiboloy enough leeway and even a two-day allowance to surrender and show cause why he should not be guilty as charged. With the warrants of arrest hanging over the head of Quiboloy, we can only say that he indeed is guilty, and now a fugitive from justice!

—“—

With the warrants of arrest hanging over the head of Quiboloy, we can only say that he indeed is guilty, and now a fugitive from justice

Simultaneously, the Department of Justice Secretary filed cases of rape, sexual abuse and human trafficking against the “self-sppointed Son of God.”

But, with Quiboloy now playing hide and seek with Congress, the big question is: Can all those warrants of arrest be enforced?

Even if Congress seeks the help of the PNP, knowing the resources of the founder of the sect, Quiboloy will manage to evade those warrants of arrest.

This is precisely the reason why the DOJ had filed the cases of rape, sex abuse and human trafficking against the sect founder in any regional court of law in Manila, knowing the money and influence of Quiboloy in Davao City. Recall that a former case was filed against Quiboloy in Davao City but was eventually dismissed.

The worries of Quiboloy are multiplied

with a forthcoming extradition case against him by a California court in the United States, also for rape, sexual abuse, human trafficking and money laundering.

Santa Banana, I wonder how Quibolioy will get out of this jam.

The people would well be warned about sect founders like Quiboloy. Santa Banana, Quiboloy even has a plane that carries him all over the world to victimize his followers. Being a sect founder certainly is a very profitable business.

But what is strange is the affiliation of the Dutertes, father and daughter, with the sect founder.

My gulay, first, why was the former President interested in being the moderator of Quiboloy’s assets and properties?

I know the former President’s spiritual advisor is Quiboloy. Being an alumnus of the Ateneo de Davao and San Beda University, what does former President Rodrigo Duterte see in Quiboloy to have him as his spiritual adviser?

I hate to say this, but have the Duterte Father and Daughter become members of the sect of Quiboloy? I included Vice President Sara Duetrte because of her support and undying love for the sect founder, so much so that the sect’s followers have staged a rally to proclaim the Duterte Father and Daughter as Vice President and President, respectively.

Santa Banana, oh no! A Quiboloy follower as Philippine President? What have we Filipinos done to deserve Quiboloy as spiritual adviser to Duterte?

In any case, the continuing saga of Quiboloy is likened to a teleserye that could equal ”Batang Quiapo.”

Else I am mistaken, I am not against people joining sects, but when they become members of government and get involved in the state affairs of people, that’s where I draw the line.

While Quiboloy is seeking divine guidance in the highlands of Davao, trying to hide from the long arms of the law, he would do well to learn that eventually Congress and the Department of Justice will find him and have him explain all the accusations against him for rape, sexual abuse and human trafficking.

Like in the case of another fugitive, the expelled congressman of Negros Oriental Arnulfo Teves, wanted for being the alleged mastermind of the killing of Negros Orienatl governor Roel Degamo and nine others.

Teves is being returned to the Philippines by the National Bureau of Investigation.

Flight from the law is a sign of guilt, Santa Banana!

Celebrating glorious heritage

SUMMER months in this multi-lingual, multi-ethnic country of 114 million are decked with festivals, verily an expressive way to celebrate glorious heritage, culture and traditions. Observers have seen this as a salute to special moments and emotions in the lives of those in the community and their loved ones which play an important role to add structure to social lives, and connect everyone with their families and backgrounds.

A festival, seen in colorful town fiestas, centers on some characteristic aspect or aspects of one community and its religion or culture. It reflects a community’s cultural identity, showcases its history, traditions, and heritage and may involve traditional music, dance, clothing, and rituals that have been passed down through generations and displays in the process values and religious or spiritual beliefs.

In many town fiestas following the millennium rollover, these occasions have provided an opportunity for Filipinos to mark their cultural identiy and heritage while providing a key role in shaping the contemporary workforce.

While contemporary festivals are often represented as flourishing grounds for extraordinary experiences, they increasingly, in the eyes of observers, serve as a platform to create cultural identity, lifestyle, community, belonging and selfactualization.

They provide a podium for traditional customs, rituals, music, dance, art, and cuisine, helping to pass them down through generations.

They also foster a sense of belonging and unity among members of the community. At the same time, they bring communities together, encourage social interaction, cooperation, and solidarity.

While on the topic, we take this space for the garlic-producing town of Pinili in Ilocos Norte, where warriors walked during the second world war and the Philippine American revolution, which will pause for five days of merriment from April 2 to 6 for its annual town fiesta, aptly called Bawang (Garlic) and Inabel (Woven Fabric) festival.

It follows the 104th founding anniversary of the town set on a hill 42 meters above sea level surrounded by lush tobacco and garlic fields – with the theme “Nurturing Tradition: The Life History of Nana Magdalena as a Reflection of Piniliños Resilience and Industry.”

The town is the birthplace of Ilokandia’s first of two National Living Treasures, 99-year-old Magdalena Gamayo, recognized by the national government as master weaver in 2012 and is still active on the loom pedals in her barangay in the town’s eastern outskirts where a museum has been built by the government. Ilocos Norte Vice Gov. Cecilia Araneta Marcos will be the guest speaker during the Balikbayan Night, attended by Pinili’s Overseas Filipino Workers and members of Pinili-Metro Manila Residents Association headed by Josie Lane on April 2 in colorful extravaganza at the town’s amphitheater with music from Don Podring de Guzman of Basista, Pangasinan. Pinili’s overseas workers will be flying

EDITORIAL

Scrappy situation in the SCS

WE HEARD

again Washington saying it is standing with its ally Manila as the former condemned Beijing’s dangerous actions against the lawful maritime operations of the Philippines in the South China Sea.

The echoes of the US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller were loud: “The PRC’s actions prevent normal personnel rotations and deprive Filipino service members at Second Thomas Shoal (Ayungin Shoal) of necessary provisions.

“This incident marks only the latest in the PRC’s repeated obstruction of Philippine vessels’ exercise of high seas freedom of navigation and disruption of supply lines to this longstanding outpost.”

The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) smashed the China Coast Guard last weekend for damaging a Filipino supply vessel near the Ayungin Shoal with water cannon and injuring those on board.

AMIDST the vibrant chaos of Manila’s urban landscape, where the daily grind often feels like navigating a maze of honking horns and gridlocked streets, a beacon of progress emerges—a locomotive of hope steaming at full throttle toward a brighter tomorrow.

At the helm of this monumental journey stands Chairman Michael Ted Macapagal of the Philippine National Railways, the mastermind behind a transformative symphony of infrastructure: the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR).

Swarmed by the chorus of bustling streets and bustling schedules, Macapagal’s resounding call for patience echoes through the city streets—”No pain, no gain.”

With the temporary suspension of commuter train services from March 28 onwards, Macapagal charts a course toward progress, clearing the tracks for the monumental NSCR project, a sprawling 147-kilometer ribbon of promise from Angeles City to Calamba City.

Macapagal, with the sagacity of a seasoned maestro, elucidates the necessity of this pause.

While efforts were made to minimize disruption, the crescendo of construction now demands undivided attention.

For the safety of passengers and workers alike, the temporary suspension becomes an essential overture in the symphony of progress—a five-year hiatus paving the way for unparalleled advancement.

But fear not, fellow commuters, for beyond this brief interlude lies a symphony of benefits that will reverberate through the nation.

Picture this: where once clunky, diesel-fed trains rattled along the tracks, a fleet of sleek electric marvels now promises safety and comfort at par with global standards.

Town fiestas provide an opportunity for Filipinos to mark their cultural identiy and heritage while providing a key role in shaping the contemporary workforce

in largely from Hawaii, the US mainland, Canada, Australia, Hong Kong, South

The NTF-WPS rightly stressed the government “will not be deterred – by veiled threats or hostility – from exercising Manila’s legal rights over its maritime zones.

—“—

What is unnerving is China’s continuing belligerence despite what an international tribunal said in July 2016 that it has no lawful maritime claims to the waters around Second Thomas Shoal

We join the authorities in condemning the PRC’s repeated obstruction of Philippine vessels’ exercise of high seas freedom of navigation and its disruption of supply lines to this longstanding outpost. The latest confrontation between Philippine and Chinese vessels came four days after Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Manila and said

the US stood by its “ironclad” commitment to defend its longtime ally against armed attack in the South China Sea.

Miller reaffirmed that commitment, saying the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty extends to armed attacks on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft – including those of its Coast Guard –anywhere in South China.

China’s actions, immediately denounced by the Philippines and the United States, are indeed “destabilizing to the region and show clear disregard for international law.”

What is unnerving is China’s continuing belligerence despite what an international tribunal said in July 2016 that it has no lawful maritime claims to the waters around Second Thomas Shoal, a low-tide feature clearly within the Philippines’ 200-mile exclusive economic zone.

As provided under the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention, the 2016 arbitral decision is final and legally binding on the People’s Republic of China and the Philippines, and China must abide by the ruling and desist from its dangerous and destabilizing conduct.

We note Washington “reaffirms that Article IV of the 1951 U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty extends to armed attacks on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft – including those of its Coast Guard – anywhere in the South China Sea.”

All aboard: Macapagal’s railroad renaissance

Presently serving a mere 50,000 commuters a day, the NSCR will catapult capacity to an astounding 800,000 passengers, cutting travel times in half and unraveling the knots of traffic gridlock that have long ensnared our roads.

President Ferdinand Maros Jr.’s promise to untangle the web of traffic congestion finds its manifestation in Macapagal’s steadfast determination. With every rail laid, every beam erected, the NSCR becomes more than just a transit artery— it’s a lifeline of opportunity, connecting communities and catalyzing growth.

—“—

All aboard the railroad renaissance, where the journey is just beginning, and the destination is boundless opportunity

And what of the sacrifices made during this construction odyssey? Fear not, for they are not in vain. As the wheels of progress turn, a windfall of benefits awaits—a veritable symphony of jobs and opportunities.

Over 2,000 jobs will blossom during the civil works phase alone, soaring to around 5,000 as electromagnetic and telecommunication works kick in.

It’s not just about laying tracks; it’s about laying the groundwork for a brighter future, where every Filipino has the

Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates, other Middle East nations as well as Britain, Spain, Italy and Germany.

The festivities will be capped by the Barangay Night, with Ms Pinili – chosen from the 25 barangays – to be crowned by the provincial treasurer, Mrs. Josephine Calajate, according to Mavi Cercado, the town’s accountant and concurrently tourism officer.

Ms Pinili 2024 is Krye Moniche Fagaragan, who will turn 32 on April 11, a tourism in hotel and restaurant technology graduate, an artist, entrepreneur, wife and has three children.

Pinili, which used to produce Virginia tobaccos from its loamy soil since after the second world war, now concentrates planting garlic after it was named the province’s garlic capital following the government’s One Town One Product Program.

The OTOP – a priority stimulus pro-

chance to contribute to the harmonious melody of progress.

But NSCR is more than just a railway—it’s a nexus of commerce and connectivity, a hub of vitality and vibrancy.

Taking a page from the playbook of the One Ayala Transport Terminal, Macapagal envisions NSCR stations as bustling centers of activity, where commuters seamlessly transition from road to rail, from station to destination. It’s not just about transportation; it’s about transforming communities, fostering growth, and igniting the flames of progress.

As Macapagal’s vision unfolds, we are reminded of the interconnected tapestry of global progress. From the bustling metropolises of China to the sleek efficiency of Japan’s railway networks, the railway reigns supreme as a catalyst for economic development.

Inspired by these international powerhouses, Macapagal charts a course toward prosperity, drawing from their successes and forging a path uniquely Filipino in its ambition.

As Macapagal embarks on this journey of transformation, he finds inspiration in the wisdom of Ayala Corporation’s visionary leaders, who graciously shared their insights during a recent tour of the One Ayala Transport Terminal. Their guidance reaffirms Macapagal’s belief in the transformative potential of integrated transportation hubs, where efficiency meets convenience in a symphony of progress.

So, fellow commuters, let us heed Macapagal’s call for patience, for within the silence of this temporary suspension lies the crescendo of progress—a symphony of mobility, connectivity, and prosperity that will echo through the corridors of our nation for generations to come.

All aboard the railroad renaissance, where the journey is just beginning, and the destination is boundless opportunity.

gram for micro and small as well as medium-scale enterprises to drive inclusive economic growth– was launched in 2004 by then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and was scheduled to end in 2010 but then President Benigno Aquino III authorized its continuation, allowing the Piniliños to plant more garlic with their mulching hays in their erstwhile Virginia tobacco terraced lands. There will also be cultural shows and street pageantry during the town fiesta, which honors as well the town’s patron saint, the Madrid-born Isidro Labrador (1070-1130), a Spanish farm worker known for his piety towards the poor and animals.

Today, particularly during summer, garlic harvests are hung on wooden rails on crowded spots of the nearly 500-kilometer MacArthur Highway that cuts through the Ilocos Region from Manila to Pagudpud town at the border of Cagayan.

MOSCOW – Four men accused of involvement in a massacre at a Moscow concert hall that killed 137 people were remanded in custody Sunday, as Russia observed a national day of mourning following the attack claimed by the Islamic State.

All four suspects have been charged with terrorism, according to Moscow’s Basmanny district court, and face life imprisonment. Their detention is set until May 22 but may be extended depending on the date of their trial.

The court said two of the defendants had pleaded guilty, and one of them, from Tajikistan, had “entirely acknowledged his guilt”.

President Vladimir Putin has vowed to punish those behind the “barbaric terrorist attack”, and on Saturday said the four gunmen had been arrested while trying to flee to Ukraine. Kyiv has strongly denied any connection to the attack.

Putin has made no public reference to the Islamic State (IS) group’s claims of responsibility.

At least 137 people, including three children, were killed Friday evening when gunmen stormed the Crocus City Hall in Moscow’s northern suburb of Krasnogorsk then set fire to the building.

It is the deadliest attack in Europe to have been claimed by IS.

Russia’s Investigative Committee posted a video of the four suspects being dragged into its headquarters in Moscow.

There was no statement on the other seven suspects arrested in connection with the attack.

Officials have said the gunmen were all foreign nationals.

The Islamic State group posted Saturday on Telegram that the attack was “carried out by four IS fighters armed with machine guns, a pistol, knives and firebombs” as part of “the raging war” with “countries fighting Islam”. AFP

UN to vote on Gaza truce resolution

Japan, US discuss boosting military

TOKYO – Japan and the United States are discussing ways to boost military cooperation, Tokyo’s top government spokesman said Monday, after reports said US operations in the country could be strengthened to counter China.

Japanese media and the Financial Times, citing diplomatic sources, said a review of the allies’ security pact will be announced at a US-Japan summit next month in Washington.

The reports said the move is part of steps to counter China’s expanding military and political influence in the Asia-Pacific region.

“Japan and the United States have been discussing ways to strengthen co-

operation in command and control in order to enhance interoperability and readiness,” government spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters.

“My understanding is that nothing has been decided regarding the American side’s structure, including strengthening the functions of US Forces Japan,” he said.

There are 54,000 US military personnel based in key US ally Japan.

Japan is ramping up defence spending to the NATO standard of two percent of GDP by 2027, and has warned that China poses the “greatest strategic challenge” to its security.

Japan’s Yomiuri daily, citing US and and Japanese sources, reported Mon-

N. Korea says Japan PM requested summit with Kim

SEOUL – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s powerful sister said Monday that Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has requested a summit with her brother, adding any meeting was unlikely without a policy shift by Tokyo.

“Kishida recently conveyed his wish to meet with the Chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea at the earliest date possible,” Kim Yo Jong said in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency.

Relations between the two countries have long been dogged by issues including compensation for Japan’s brutal occupation

of the Korean peninsula between 1910 and 1945 and more recently by Pyongyang’s firing of missiles over Japanese territory.

The abduction by North Korean agents of Japanese citizens in the 1970s and 1980s -- forced to train spies in Japanese language and customs -- has also long been a major point of contention.

Kishida has said he wants to change the relationship between Tokyo and Pyongyang and last year expressed his wish to meet with North Korea’s leader “without any conditions”, saying in a speech at the UN General Assembly that Tokyo was willing to resolve all issues, including the kidnappings.

Last month, the North’s Kim Yo Jong -- who is one of the regime’s key spokespeople -- hinted at a possible future invitation for the Japanese leader to visit North Korea.

She said on Monday that it was “Japan’s political decision that matters the most to pave a new charter in North Korea-Japan relationship.”

Meanwhile, Kim Jong Un inspected a tank unit which once invaded Seoul during the Korean War, state media reported Monday, with Pyongyang’s leader calling for ever greater preparations for combat.

Inter-Korean relations are at one of their lowest points in years, with Kim’s military recently conducting a string of banned weapons tests, including launching a ballistic missile and staging a ground test of a “new type” of hypersonic missile engine. AFP

day about the potential changes. A permanent US-Japan joint team could be set up in Japan to ensure closer military coordination, the newspaper said, explaining that currently Japan has to deal with the Hawaii-based US Indo-Pacific Command for various decisions.

The Financial Times said that “the Pentagon is some way from making any decision”, but that both Japan and the United States were keen to boost ties “to respond to what they view as a growing threat from China”. It also described the plans as “the biggest upgrade to (the US-Japan) security alliance since they signed a mutual defence treaty in 1960.” AFP

UNITED NATIONS, New York – The UN Security Council will vote Monday (Tuesday in Mania) on a new draft resolution on an “immediate” ceasefire in Gaza, after Russia and China vetoed an earlier text proposed by the United States.

The Council has been divided over the Israel-Hamas war since the October 7 attacks, approving only two of eight resolutions, with both dealing mainly with humanitarian aid to the devastated Gaza Strip.

Permanent Council member and key Israel backer the United States has unequivocally supported Israel’s right to defend itself following Hamas’s unprecedented attacks.

But with the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepening, the United States has tempered its support for Israel over its conduct of the war against the Palestinian militant group.

The Gaza war began with an unprecedented Hamas attack on Oct. 7 that resulted in about 1,160 deaths in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures.

Israel has vowed to destroy the militants, who also seized about 250 hostages, of whom Israel believes around 130 remain in Gaza, including 33 presumed dead.

The health ministry in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip on Sunday put the total death toll in the territory at 32,226, most of them women and children.

The ministry said 72 people had been killed in early hours of Sunday, including at least 26 killed in air strikes on five homes in the southern city of Rafah.

Last Friday, the Security Council voted on a draft submitted by the United States that called for an “immediate” ceasefire linked to the release of hostages.

China and Russia vetoed the resolution, criticizing it for stopping short of explicitly demanding Israel halt its campaign. AFP

TEAM SPIRIT. A woman protester holds up a sign in solidarity with Gaza during an anti-Israeli demonstration at Palestine Square in Tehran late on Sunday amid the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The Gaza war began with an unprecedented Hamas attack on Oct. 7 that resulted in about 1,160 deaths in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. AFP

Creamline, Cignal dispute lead; Chery faces Nxled

holds-barred contest between two of the league’s strongest clubs.

The two other matches are also expected to be thrilling affairs with Petro Gazz facing Capital1 at 2 p.m. The Angels, eager to bounce back from their recent defeat, are favored against the struggling Solar Spikers.

liminaries where every match holds significant importance.

At 5-1, Creamline is tied with Choco Mucho and PLDT at the top with the Cool Smashers targeting the solo spot with a victory over the HD Spikers. But Cignal, alone at fourth with a 4-1 slate, is also out to score another win and force a threeway tie at the helm.

The highly anticipated main game at 6 p.m. promises an exciting showdown, despite the solemnity of the Holy Week, as fans brace for a no-

Meanwhile, Chery Tiggo and Nxled seek to solidify their positions as they tangle in the 4 p.m. game. While the Crossovers are riding on a winning momentum, the Chameleons are eager to make a statement after a challenging start to the season.

But Nxled coach Takayuki Minowa expects his wards to put up a strong performance with Ivy Lacsina also out to bounce back from a two-point showing in the Chameleons’ three-set loss to sister team Akari Chargers last week.

Still, focus will be on the Creamline-Cignal encounter with both teams coming off shutout victories following similar 0-3 defeats.

PSC execs to discuss PH’s anti-doping compliance at Forum

THE Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum holds a special Holy Tuesday session (March 26) to tackle the decision of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to clear the Philippines from its compliance watch list.

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann and Executive Director Paulo Francisco Tatad lead the panel of guests in the 10 a.m. session to be held at the conference hall of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

Joining them are Philippine National Anti-Doping Organization officials Dr. Alejandro Pineda and Nathan Vasquez. With the compliance procedure over and done with, the Philippine flag is now assured of being flown in the coming Paris Olympics, Paralympic Games and in future regional, continental, and world championships.

The special session is presented by San Miguel Corporation, PSC, Philippine Olympic Committee, MILO, PLDT/Smart, and the 24/7 sports app in the country ArenaPlus.

End of an era as Macau horse racing halts operations in April

MACAU—For three decades Joe Lau has tied his racehorse training career to the rising and falling fortunes of the Macau Jockey Club, but in a few days it will all be over.

On April 1, horse racing in the southern Chinese casino hub will be consigned to history after the club’s concession from the government to operate racing was terminated.

The sport was in financial difficulties and no longer able to meet the “current development needs of society”, said a government statement in January.

way,” Lau told AFP. “Riding is in my blood and this is my occupation.” Macau held its first thoroughbred races in 1989, when still under Portuguese rule, and the sport found success after a takeover in 1991 by Stanley Ho, the late casino tycoon nicknamed “King of Gambling”.

west of Hong Kong by ferry.

“At the present time we’ve got 200.

That says a story in itself.”

Despite the warning signs, some trainers and owners said they were taken aback by the 11-week window between January’s closure announcement and the end of racing, with Allendorf calling the timing “abrupt”.

Trainers, jockeys and stable staff have written to Macau’s leader demanding compensation for their lost livelihoods, saying the club’s 570 employees would be dealt a heavy blow.

“Everybody’s still in shock.

It’ll really hit home once we close down,” Allendorf said.

with the government and other parties”.

‘Falling apart’ Owner Jason Tam has a stable of six in Macau and is leading a group of owners seeking compensation from the Jockey Club.

“This place is falling apart, this is what happens with poor management,” he said, motioning at the peeling paint at the 400,000-square-metre track. Hit hard by the pandemic and economic uncertainties, horse racing has faced a downturn in parts of Asia, with Singapore announcing last year that 180 years of racing will end in October 2024.

The public sports program is livestreamed via the PSA Facebook page fb.com/PhilippineSportswritersAssociation and aired on a delayed basis over Radyo Pilipinas 2, which likewise shares the link to its official Facebook page Radyo Pilipinas 2 Sports. Criss

Speaking outside the ageing racecourse, with glitzy casino resorts towering in the distance, Lau recalled the glory days, such as his sweep at the 2004 Hong Kong-Macau Interport Series, but he now feels “depressed” about the end of an era.

“(It’s) like you felt the whole house on fire, and it shouldn’t happen this

In recent years, the Macau Jockey Club—chaired by Ho’s fourth wife Angela Leong—saw attendances fall and racked up losses exceeding 2.5 billion patacas ($310 million). ‘Still in shock’

“In the late 1990s we were flying, we had 1,200 horses,” said Geoff Allendorf, another long-time trainer in the city, which lies an hour to the

There is concern for the welfare of horses. Owners are negotiating with club management over costs of transportation and relocation, which must be completed before April 2025.

The Macau Jockey Club’s chief operations officer, Ben To, would not comment on that, but conceded there were “still many things under discussion

But owners such as Tam point to the soaring success of nearby Hong Kong, where racing saw an all-time high turnover of $39 billion in 2022-23.

Six years ago, Macau’s racing licence was extended by 24 years in return for $190 million of investment by the Macau Jockey Club on renovations and non-gaming facilities, such as hotels. AFP

Criss Cross’ Garcia named Spikers’ Turf Press Corps Player of the Week

JUDE Garcia showed no signs of rust in his return to indoor volleyball, anchoring Criss Cross’ unbeaten start in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference.

Garcia, who spent the past years playing for the Philippine men’s beach volleyball team, emerged as the go-to-guy for the new Spikers’ Turf squad with averages of 15.0 points, 8.7 receptions, and 5.0 digs in the King Crunchers’ 3-0 start that allowed them to tie defending champion Cignal at the top spot.

The three-time Southeast Asian Games bronze medalist delivered 18 points on 12 attacks, five blocks, and one ace laced with eight excellent receptions in Criss Cross’ rousing 25-8, 25-22, 25-11 debut win over Maverick last week.

Garcia then came up with an all-around

effort of 11 points, nine excellent receptions, and six excellent digs in the 25-18, 25-17, 2517 victory over VNS-Nasty last Friday before leading the charge in the 25-16, 25-10, 25-22 triumph against RichMarc Sports 3B with 16 points, nine excellent receptions, and seven excellent digs on Sunday.

For his efficiency and versatile performance, Garcia earned the first-ever Spikers’ Turf Press Corps Player of the Week for the period of March 13 to 24 in the men’s volleyball league organized by Sports Vision.

“Siguro nagpe-payoff lang yung binibigay kong 100 percent sa training. Kasi syempre galing ako sa beach volleyball, so kailangan kong ipakita talaga na eto ako. Hindi ako pwedeng mag-relax kasi may kailangan kaming

makuha ngayong season,” said Garcia, who ranked inside the top 10 of all but the setting category after two weeks’ worth of action. “May konti pa akong adjustments at marami pa akong kailangan i-polish. Kailangan namin pagtuunan pa rin ng pansin yung mga simple mistakes na nangyayari sa loob ng court,” he added.

Garcia edged reigning MVP Jau Umandal of Cignal, Joeven Dela Vega of PGJC-Navy, and Francis Saura of the D’Navigators for the weekly honor given by scribes from broadsheets, tabloids, and online platforms covering the men’s club league, which also airs live at www.spikersturf.ph Despite the King Crunchers’ impressive start, the high-leaping outside hitter is still far from satisfied.

ALJOHN Rombawa proved to be an unstoppable force at home, claiming two titles in the boys’ category, while Bacoor, Cavite’s Jana Diaz dominated the girls’ division in the Don Arsenio Escudero, Sr. National Juniors Tennis Championships at the Aera Tennis Club in San Pablo City over the weekend.

Rombawa fashioned out contrasting wins in the Group 2 tournament presented by Dunlop, out-steadying Rafa Monte de Ramos, 4-6, 6-4, 12-10, in the 14-and-U finals, and overwhelming last week’s twodivision winner, France Dilao, 6-3, 6-1, to top the premier class. Diaz, hailing from Bacoor, Cavite, also delivered an outstanding performance, drubbing Joy Ansay, 6-1, 6-1, in the 16-and-U finals, and crushing doubles partner Chloe Mercado, 6-3, 6-1, for the 18-and-U trophy as she shared the MVP honors with Rombawa in the tournament

aimed at discovering and nurturing talents from across the countryside. The circuit will resume on April 4-8 for the Mayor Rolen Paulino, Jr. Cup, a Group I event at the Olongapo Tennis Club. For details, contact event organizer Bobby Mangunay at 0915-4046464.

Other winners in the event, part of the nationwide circuit sponsored by Palawan Pawnshop president/CEO Bobby Castro and sanctioned by Philta, PPS NTC and the UTR and supported by Slazenger, were Ariel Cabaral from Bais City, QCs’ Marcus Go, Ave Maria Policarpio from Muntinlupa, Ella Paglalunan, from Gen. Trias, Cavite, and Raven Licayan, also from Gen. Trias.

Ave Maria Policarpio and Stella Maris Policarpio pocketed the girls’ 14-and-U crown with an 8-4 victory over Dania Bulanadi and Vania Parawan, while Nicholas Andal and de Ramos won the boys’ plum with an 8-1 romp over Jan Cuenza and Bien Tulop.

Licayan and Terrence Batallones bagged the 10-and-U unisex crown with an 8-6 victory over Dizon and Maximus Calingasan.

Cabaral routed France Dilao, 6-3, 6-1, for the boys’ 18-and-U championship; Go routed sibling Mattias Go, 6-0, 6-2, in the boys’ 12-and-U finals; Policarpio foiled Paglalunan, 6-3, 6-3, for the girls’ 14-and-U crown; Paglalunan upended Lilith Rufino, 6-2, 6-3, in the girls’ 12-and-U finals; and Licayan held off Jacob Dizon, 5-3, 4-2, to claim the 10-andU unisex trophy. In doubles matches, the Diaz-Mercado pair smothered the Rocel Ravino-Cristella Llamera tandem, 8-0; while Rombawa and Jeff Jimenez clobbered Ariel Cabaral and Al Licayan, 8-2, for the 18-and-U title.

This photo taken on March 17, 2024 shows members of the public watching horses in the parade ring at the Macau Jockey Club. On April 1, horse racing in the southern Chinese casino hub will be consigned to history following an official announcement in January that the sport had declined in popularity and could no longer meet the ‘current development needs of society’. AFP

Jana

TUESDAY, MARCH 26, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

Fil-Am Nation leads sweep of visiting teams in NBTC Finals

“We

“A lot of these players are in highlevel programs. They have been in situations before, and it was all about finding the right persons in the court to bring them together,” said Gavina.

Earlier, Canada’s Top Flight Sports topped Division 2 with a comefrom-behind 95-93 overtime triumph over Eco Green Technology-Makati

Earlier, National University-Nazareth School and Fil-Can Nation Select took the inaugural Girls’ 19U and Boys’ 19U plums, respectively.

The NUNS Lady Bullpups weathered Naomi Panganiban’s 51-point explosion to b eat Fil-Am Nation Select, 78-73, while the FilCanadians prevailed over Fil-Am Nation Select, 82-76, in the boys’ final.

The Boys 16-under title went to Fil-Am Nation Select 1, which stopped the Mighty Warriors, 10395, while Homegrown (Victoria) got the Boys 14-Under championship by demolishing Xavier, 99-65. Peter Atencio

TEENAGE prodigy Ruelle Canino shocked Woman International Master Jan Jodilyn Fronda in 62 moves of an English Opening to snatch the title in the Philippine National Women’s Chess Championship dubbed “Battle of Women Masters” in Malolos, Bulacan over the weekend.

Needing a victory to win it all, Canino, 16, did just that, stopping Fronda, the 2019 national titlist, and stealing the crown with 8.5 points, the top purse worth P85,000 and the lone berth to the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in Bangkok, Thailand this November.

It came with one of the three slots to the national team seeing action in the FIDE World Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary this September the Cagayan de Oro wunderkind already secured the day before.

Against Fronda, Canino snatched a pawn early and used it to crea te a two-pawn central passed pawn that forced her more experienced foe to give up a piece to prevent it.

It was all Canino from there.

Fronda though consoled herself with the fact that she made the Olympiad-bound squad while pocketing P52,000 for a runner up finish with eight points in this event organized by the NCFP and backed by the PSC and POC.

Top seed Woman Grandmaster Janelle Mae Frayna finished third with seven points after a 59-move triumph over Woman FIDE Master Cherry Ann Mejia in another English encounter. She took home P40,000.

Marcial set for US training

By Randy Caluag

IN the pursuit of the Philippines’ first-ever boxing gold in the Olympics, Eumir Marcial’s team is rallying an entire village of support behind him.

After the Holy Week, Marcial gears up for intensive training in Colorado, USA, a renowned boxing hub.

With the Paris Olympics looming in August, the decision to train in the US aligns with the strategy of many Olympics-bound athletes.

Supported by the Philippine Sports Commission, the MVP Sports Foundation, and the Association of Boxing Alliances of the Philippines, Marcial has assembled a dedicated team of individuals and corporate backers who share his Olympic dreams.

ABAP secretary general Marcus Manalo is committed to sending a national coach to accompany Marcial to help him acclimate to the nuances of Olympic-style boxing.

Meanwhile, esteemed nutritionist Jeaneth

Aro will continue to tailor Marcial’s diet to optimize his performance.

In a recent showcase of his prowess, Marcial dominated Thai opponent Thoedsak Sinam in a fourthround victory during an 8-round super middleweight bout at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

The bout served as a stepping stone towards conditioning for the light heavyweight division, where he’ll face formidable opponents from across the globe.

Beyond the victory, Marcial drew strength from the overwhelming support of his local fans, fuelling his determination for success in the upcoming Paris Olympics.

Expressing gratitude for his triumph, Marcial acknowledged the unwavering support of his fellow Filipinos, his dedicated team, and

In a poignant gesture, Marcial displayed gratitude towards his sponsors, including Chooks to Go and WRC, a construction company owned by lawyer Warton Chan, secretary general of the Samahang Kickboxing ng Pilipinas.

Buhain supports house bill recognizing women in sports

BATANGAS 1st District Congressman Eric Buhain led the deliberations and review of the proposed house bills and resolutions recognizing women in sports and building facilities for the country’s grassroots sports development programs.

As an Olympian and Philippine Sports Hall-of-Famer, Buhain asserted that it is an honor to give importance and recognition to outstanding Filipino athletes like him who aspire to bring honor to the country.

“It’s interesting because, as a former athlete, I felt these measures would give every Filipino athlete importance. Also, through this, we will enrich our country’s sports field,” said Buhain, vice chairman of the Youth and Sports Committee in the House of Representatives.

The house bill is a big step by Congress to promote women’s rights and give fair opportunities for female athletes who, according to Buhain, have significantly contributed to sports development in the country.

The proposed resolution aims to recognize and honor international tennis phenom Alex Eala and the Philippine boxing team, which include female fighters Nesthy Petecio, Aira Villegas, and Hergie Bacy-

adan, for winning the gold medal at the Boxam Elite Tournament in La Nucia, Alicante, Spain. The success of Petecio (57 kg.) and Villegas (50 kg.)

Nicklaus golf meet returns with a twist

ATTENTION golf aficionados.

Whether you’re a newcomer to the reens or a seasoned player, seize the opportunity to participate in a friendly tournament that fosters healthy competition among golfers.

The highly anticipated Jack Nicklaus International Invitational (JNII) returns better than ever, set to take place on April 15, 2024, at Sta. Elena Golf & Country Club in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

This year, now called the Jack Nicklaus National Invitational (JNNI), the champions will have the opportunity to enjoy leisure play at a world-renowned golf course in Columbus, Ohio.

Grab a Partner and Register Today

Since its inception, Jack Nicklaus has remained steadfast in its dedication to elevating the golfing journey through premium products, reflecting the high stan-

dards set by its founder.

Going beyond product excellence, the brand actively nurtures the dreams of amateur golfers by offering opportunities to compete on prestigious courses. This commitment is highlighted by the the Jack Nicklaus National Invitational 2024, extending an invitation to players of all genders and proficiency levels, aged 21 and above, including Filipino citizens with valid Philippine passports (preferably with a US Visa), to partake in this esteemed tournament. To join, simply complete the registration form upon purchasing a minimum of P10,000 in a single receipt per person at any Jack Nicklaus counter (located in Rustan’s Department Stores in Makati, Shangri-La Plaza, Alabang, Gateway, and Cebu; The Landmark Trinoma, SM Makati, and Chimes Boutiques Davao).

Act fast – registration closes on April 8, 2024, at 9 p.m., and only the first 200 qualified registrants will secure a spot. The victorious duo is in for an extraordinary treat! Not only will they receive the prestigious National Champion trophy, a remarkable achievement in itself, but they will also receive one-day VIP access to the PGA Tour’s Memorial Tournament, hosted by Jack Nicklaus, complete with round-trip airfare to the USA and VIP accommodations for four days and three nights. Regardless of the outcome, the chance to participate in such a highcaliber event is not to be missed. Visit a Jack Nicklaus counter near you, and you could be the one to score big with a memorable leisure play at a prestigious golf course in Columbus, Ohio, come June.

followed when both advanced to the semifinals of the 1st World Qualification Tournament in Busto Arsizio, Italy, on March 12 to earn the much-coveted tickets in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Meanwhile, it was the second time for the 25-year-old Petecio to make it to the Olympics, where she bagged a silver in the Tokyo edition of the games, while the 23-year-old Villegas is a first-timer in the world’s biggest sports spectacle. Also cited during the review was Olympic gold medalist lifter Hidilyn Diaz, who praised the great sacrifice of female athletes for giving honor to the country in the past decades.

The resolution for the establishment of sports academies, training centers, and sports arenas in the central provinces of the country was also discussed in the said house hearing last March 19, attended by the officials of the Philippine Sports Commission, led by chairman Richard Bachmann and commissioner Edward Hayco as they vowed to implement the ‘ Regionalization Sports’ program of Ferdinand

Rep. Buhain (center) talks with PSC commissioner Edward Hayco and PSC chairman Richard Bachmann (right).

The

SLAM

Japeth scores on a rimrattling dunk against a stunned JuneMar Fajardo (left) during his team’s PBA All-Star Game against Team Mark at the jampacked University of St. La Salle gym in Bacolod City. The game ended up in a 140-all deadlock.

Paris Olympics-bound Eumir Marcial shows devastating power in stopping Thai opponent Thoedsak Sinam. Wendell Ruper Alinea his

Terrence Hill (right) drives to the basket

Meralco sees Q1 power sales increasing by 9% amid hot weather

By Alena Mae S. Flores

POWER retailer Manila Electric

Co. is looking at a 9-percent sales volume growth in the first quarter of 2024 from a year ago, driven by higher temperature and increased economic activity.

“Though we are not done with March yet, [it] seems we are tracking 9-percent increase in Q1 2024 versus Q1 2023.... mainly driven by residential and commercial segments. Industrial is also showing signs of recovery, though a bit modest,” Meralco senior vice president and chief revenue officer Ferdinand Geluz said.

Geluz said warm temperature amid the El Nino dry spell and the resumption of face-to-face classes and work arrangements also supported the growth of hotel, real estate and restaurant sectors.

“And since it’s a leap year, we benefit from additional billing [for March cycle],” the executive said.

Geluz said the first-quarter sales volume growth in 2023 was “relatively low”, or almost flat compared to 2022, with the residential segment even showing a decline in demand.

Meralco posted full-year energy sales volume growth of 4 percent in 2023 to 51,044 gigawatt-hours from 48,916 GWh the previous year.

The commercial segment maintained the largest share in the sales mix, increasing to 37 percent from 36 percent previously. Residential share remained at 35 percent, while industrial segment’s share slightly dipped from 29 percent to 28 percent.

SUBWAY PROGRESS.

Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, Undersecretary for Railways Jeremy Regino and former undersecretary Art Valdez inspect Tunnel Boring Machine No. 4 for the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP) on March 7, 2024. The machine’s initial drive covers four north stations at Quirino Highway, Tandang Sora, North Ave. and East Valenzuela. The DOTr aims to complete tunneling up to Tandang Sora within 12 months. Now at 40-percent progress, the project aims to reduce travel time from Quezon City to Ninoy Aquino International Airport from 70 to 35 minutes, easing Metro Manila’s traffic congestion, and serving 519,000 daily passengers.

Recto expects BSP to keep interest rates steady in April

By Darwin G. Amojelar

FINANCE Secretary

Ralph Recto expects the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to keep the interest rates steady for its fourth consecutive policy meeting since October 2023.

“I don’t expect interest rates to go up or go down. I might be wrong, but I don’t expect that,” said Recto, who is also a member of the BSP’s policymaking Monetary Board.

The Monetary Board kept the overnight borrowing rate unchanged

at 6.50 percent and the overnight deposit and lending facilities at 6.0 percent and 7.0 percent in its February meeting this year.

The board will hold its next meeting on April 8, 2024, which was rescheduled from April 4, 2024.

The BSP said it moved the meeting because the MB wanted to wait for the release of the inflation data on April 5, 2024.

Recto said, however, the MB would likely cut policy rates by “possibly 50 basis points” later this year. “It might be two [25-basis-point adjustment] each. But it is the entire board that will decide,” he said.

BMI, a Fitch Solutions company, earlier said it was anticipating a 75bps interest rate cut by the second half of 2024 in line with expectations of

the US Federal Reserve’s adjustments.

Local monetary officials are watching the move by the Fed to keep the differential between US and Philippine interest rates steady to avoid fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. Another major factor being considered by the BSP is the inflation rate which picked up to 3.4 percent in February from 2.8 percent in January this year.

The BSP said the latest riskadjusted inflation forecast for 2024 eased to 3.9 percent from 4.2 percent in the previous meeting in December. It said that for 2025, the riskadjusted inflation forecast would be relatively steady at 3.5 percent. The BSP’s projection for 2024 and 2025 also fall within the government’s target range of 2 percent to 4 percent

Economists see first-quarter growth at 6.1%

ECONOMISTS at First Metro Investment Corp. (FMIC) and the University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) said the Philippine economy would likely grow above 6 percent in the first quarter of 2024, driven by higher government infrastructure spending.

“The economy looks set to accelerate in 2024, with Q1 GDP [gross domestic product] estimated at 6.1 percent as infrastructure spending goes into high gear with the National Government (NG), buoyed by ODA funding, and PPP projects gain traction,” FMIC and UA&P said in their latest Market Call report.

Their first-quarter growth projection was slower than the actual 6.4-percent expansion in the first quarter of 2023 and the government’s target range of 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent this year.

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said the Department of Budget and Coordination Committee (DBCC) would likely adjust its macroeconomic assumptions until 2028 to more “realistic” growth targets.

FMIC and UA&P said government spending had a strong start in 2024 after the understandable tentativeness of the different departments at the start of 2023, when the then new administration was in an organizational mode.

“Infrastructure spending, both government-funded [i.e., huge P1trillion DPWH budget alone] and PPP projects, should accelerate in 2024 as NG bids out and awards large undertakings starting with the recent $3.0-billion Ninoy Aquino International Airport expansion,” the report said. Darwin G. Amojelar

MOVE IT launches ‘Malasakit sa Biyahe’ safety and protection program

The

HOMEGROWN motorcycle taxi company MOVE IT strengthens its commitment to providing safe and secure transportation to its passengers and rider-partners.

The two-wheel ride-hailing platform has launched its ‘Malasakit sa Biyahe’ Safety and Protection Program—a multi-pronged initiative focused on key safety elements such as skills assessment and development; technology and report mechanisms; and rider and vehicle roadworthiness.

MOVE IT General Manager Wayne Jacinto shares: “Bilang isa sa mga participants ng Motorcycle Taxi Pilot Study, isang napakahalagang aspeto ng aming serbisyo sa MOVE IT ang kaligtasan – hindi lamang ng aming mga pasahero kundi pati ng bawat Kuya at Ate ng Kalsada. Hindi lamang po pangako ang ‘kaligtasan’ para sa amin; bagkus ito ay bahagi na ng aming prinsipyo. Kaya patuloy ang ating pagpapalawig ng mga programa, alituntunin at tech features upang mas mapaigting ang kaligtasan ng ating bawat biyahe. Malayo na ang ating narating pagdating dito at patuloy pa tayong mag-iimprove para sa bawat pasaherong patuloy na nagtitiwala at tumatangkilik sa aming serbisyo, at maging sa mga riders na umaasa sa MOVE IT para sa kanilang pang-araw-araw na kabuhayan.”

Prioritizing Skills Assessment and Development

Foundational to the safety and security principle of MOVE IT is the assessment and development of the skillset of its rider network. Before onboarding, every aspiring MOVE IT rider-partner undergoes a rigorous identification; and skills and vehicular roadworthiness assessment process. Rider-partners are now also required to do an annual mandatory retraining

Rating’ feature allows rider-partners to rate and provide feedback on the conduct of the passenger. Through this feature, MOVE IT can investigate any reported misconduct by some passengers and assist riders accordingly.

Leveraging its community of rider-partners, MOVE IT has also established ‘Ka-MOVE IT Emergency Responders’—a league of MOVE IT riders trained by the platform and the Philippine Red Cross to conduct basic first aid and situation assessment. Connected via various communication channels, the Emergency Responders serve as MOVE IT’s invaluable on-the-road assets when incidents happen, therefore exponentially growing the capacity of the platform to conduct immediate aid to all concerned.

features for passengers and its rider-partners geared at ensuring their safety and security on the road. With these user-friendly and readily accessible features, riders and passengers can go through rides with an extra layer of safety and added confidence.

• Share My Ride: This feature allows riders and passengers to share their live location with colleagues and loved ones for easy tracking. A Share My Ride link can be disseminated by the user via different messaging apps and platforms.

• Emergency SOS Button: This feature promptly connects users with local authorities and law enforcement, guaranteeing immediate response and assistance when required.

• Manage Emergency Contacts: An exclusive feature on MOVE IT, this functionality allows users to store multiple family and emergency contacts for easy access and speed dial during emergencies.

With MOVE IT’s commitment to safety extending even after the ride, passengers also have access to the reporting mechanism ‘Report an Issue’ via the Activity Tab. Passengers just need to click the specific transaction they wish to file a report on and indicate the necessary details of their concern. On the driver app, a ‘Passenger

Passengers and riders are also encouraged to contact the 24/7 MOVE IT Safety Hotline at 02-8883-7109 for any incidents encountered on the road.

A Strong and Continuously Improving Safety Scorecard

Published in 2023, the MOVE IT Passenger Manifesto stresses the deep commitment of MOVE IT to safety: Laging Kaligtasan ang Una Sa Lahat. As a long-standing principle of the platform, safety on MOVE IT remains of paramount importance. This is attested to by its continuously improving scorecard. Touting its professionally trained and fully capable rider fleet, and its 24/7 incident response team; the platform currently maintains a 99.998% safety record and a less-than 30-minute average incident response time.

And it does not end here. The Passenger Manifesto endures with a bigger promise, which is Laging Nagsusumikap Para Mas Mapaganda ang Serbisyo Namin. This commitment to optimization pushes MOVE IT to offer safe, reliable, and honest rides every single day—elevating the standards in the local moto-taxi industry to the benefit of every commuter and rider.

Col. Edison ‘Bong’ Nebrija from the MMDA, and MOVE IT General Manager Wayne Jacinto conduct a Road Safety Skills Assessment and Development session for MOVE IT rider-partners.

MICT rolls out new solutions for port users’ convenience

By Darwin G. Amojelar

MANILA International Container Terminal (MICT), the Philippines’ main gateway for international trade, said Monday it is constantly innovating to improve customer experience and boost supply chain efficiency.

Leveraging technology, the MICT rolled out innovative digital solutions to enhance transparency and make transactions more convenient for port users.

It said that when the global health crisis reached the Philippines in 2020, the MICT transitioned to 100-percent digital payments via International Container Terminal Services Inc.’s Advance Customer Transaction System (ACTS).

The system offered a convenient, efficient and secure platform that enabled port users to settle their transactions at the comfort and safety of their homes. Eliminating the need to visit the terminal, ACTS helped keep MICT customers safe during the pandemic while streamlining port transactions.

The transition also supports the government’s efforts to streamline and further improve the ease of doing business using online platforms and digital payment systems.

MICT also said its Terminal Appointment Booking System (TABS) is one of the most notable innovations implemented by the company in recent years.

TABS, launched in 2015, is an online platform that enables trucking companies to schedule specific slots for container pick-ups and drop-offs, optimizing cargo movement within the port.

“Having a structured framework for truck arrivals benefits all the stakeholders in the port. TABS helps our clients to plan their trips more effectively leading to potentially lower costs. It also helps us to improve our productivity by enabling us to allocate our resources more effectively and address operational challenges more proactively,” said MICT chief operating officer Christian Lozano.

Having an appointment system in place regulating the arrival of trucks also helps reduce traffic congestion along city roads leading to the port.

PH stocks slump amid lack of catalysts, peso weakening

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PHILIPPINE stocks opened the week in the red amid the lack of catalysts ahead of the long holiday period.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index closed at 6,853.10 Monday, down 28.87 points, or 0.42 percent, while the broader all-shares index lost 9.69 points, or 0.27 percent, to close at 3,578.21.

“Philippine shares were quietly sold down as investors prepare for a shortened week while waiting the quarter-end close,” Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said.

Philstocks Financial Inc. research analyst Claire Alviar said the weakening of the peso against the US dollar in the past few days also weighed on investor sentiment. The peso closed at 56.39 against the greenback Monday. Alviar said foreign selling also contributed to the market’s decline

as net outflow reached P2476.5 million. Market turnover reached P4.61 billion. Meanwhile, Asian markets mostly fell on Monday as investors set their sights on the release of key US inflation data due at the end of the week. After last week’s Federal Reserve projections for interest rates indicated it would cut three times this year, traders are optimistic about the outlook for equities. However, figures showing the US economy remains in rude health are keeping a lid on sentiment and raised

concerns that the central bank might not be able to bring borrowing costs down as quickly as hoped.

Those concerns were echoed by Atlanta Fed chief Raphael Bostic on Friday, when he said he saw inflation remaining sticky and saw just one rate cut this year, instead of the two he had previously foreseen.

Eyes are now on the release of the personal consumption expenditures (PCE) index, the Fed’s preferred gauge of inflation, with traders hoping for a reading that shows price gains slowing further. With AFP

Senator

Martin Romualdez and Securities and Exchange Commission chairperson Emilio Aquino lead the ribboncutting ceremony for the opening of the SEC Butuan Extension Office on March 22, 2024.

SEC opens Butuan office to support Mindanao’s economic growth

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said Monday it recently opened a new office in Butuan City to support the support business formation amid rising economic growth in Mindanao.

The new office, which is envisioned to make doing business easier for entrepreneurs in the region, is located at the JC Aquino Training Center along JC Aquino Ave. in Barangay Libertad, Butuan City.

It said the SEC Butuan Extension Office would serve the Caraga Administrative Region, which is among the coun-

try’s fastest-growing regions.

Caraga recorded a gross regional domestic product of more than P320 billion in 2022. Some 7,158 registered corporations and partnerships were based in Caraga as of December 2023, which were previously under the jurisdiction of the SEC Cagayan de Oro Extension Office.

The SEC said the establishment of the SEC Butuan Extension Office was requested by the Regional Development Council of the Caraga Region, in line with improving bureaucratic and regulatory efficiency as per the Caraga Re-

D.M. Wenceslao declares P260m worth of cash dividends

THE board of D.M. Wenceslao & Associates Inc. (DMW) declared cash dividends amounting to P0.078971515 per share, or a total of P268.176 million, during its regular meeting on March 18, 2024.

The

“2023 witnessed

since going public in 2018, and its highest so far.

DMW said its consistently growing earnings and its robust financial position enabled it to sustain continuous cash dividend growth, while simultaneously executing on all expansion initiatives.

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to improving shareholder value, recognizing with gratitude, the shareholders’ pivotal role in all our milestones and accolades. As we continue to propel our strategic expansion plans forward, we will simultaneously ensure consistent and growing dividends for our valued shareholders,” Wenceslao said. Jenniffer B.

gional Development Plan, and by Agusan del Norte First District Rep. Jose S. Aquino II. “Choosing Butuan as the newest location for our extension office was an easy decision to make, as the high number of business name registrations in the area shows its potential to become a thriving business hub in the future,” SEC chairman Emilio Aquino said. “The SEC seeks to support this potential by creating an enabling environment that will make doing business easier for entrepreneurs in the region, through the services provided by the SEC Butuan

Extension Office,” he said.

The extension office is also aligned with the SEC’s mandate to ensure the efficient delivery of public services and effective enforcement of laws concerning the capital market, financing and lending companies, and the overall corporate sector.

It is the 11th extension office, established less than a year after the SEC Tacloban Extension Office opened in May 2023. The SEC also operates extension offices in Baguio, Tarlac, Legazpi, Cebu, Bacolod, Iloilo, Zamboanga, Davao and Cagayan de Oro.

Upson reports record-high revenues, opens more stores

GADGETS retailer Upson International Corp. said Monday its net income in 2023 reached P464.2 million, down 13.7 percent from P537.85 million in the same period last year despite higher sales.

Upson said in a disclosure to the stock exchange net revenues reached a record P10 billion in 2023, up 5.8 percent from P9.46 billion in 2022, following the opening of new stores.

“2023 was a year of investment and transition, evolving from being privately held to becoming a public company” said Upson chief executive Arlene Sy. “For the first time in our history, revenues surpassed P10 billion as we increasingly reap the benefits from

our expanding footprint. This strong foundation is what we will build on this year. Our focus is on serving our customers better to unlock the full potential of the new stores and deliver sustainable and profitable growth,” Sy said.

Upson opened 25 new stores in 2023, including 12 in the fourth quarter, ending the year with 232 stores. Upson introduced 12 tech brands to broaden its product offering. It also began to set up Apple corners in select stores which brought customers greater access to the brand.

Upson now carries 115 tech brands in its portfolio. Computers were the primary driver of the sales increase, led by mid-range laptops. Jenniffer B. Austria

Ramon Revilla, Jr., House Speaker Ferdinand

TOP TAXPAYER. The Jollibee Group is named the top fifth business taxpayer in Pasig City for 2023, reinforcing its commitment to contribute to nation-building. Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto (third from left) and Vice Mayor Robert Jaworski, Jr. (fifth from left) lead the recognition of the city’s top taxpayers. Receiving the award on behalf of the Jollibee Group are Clarisa Guerra, Jollibee worldwide services director of Tax Services (fourth from left) Anna Marie Curan, Jollibee Group corporate tax manager (second from left).

DMW chief executive Delfin Angelo Wenceslao

Renewed FTA talks to bring in more European investors

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) expressed optimism on attracting more European Union (EU) investors following the resumption of free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations.

PEZA director-general Tereso Panga said an FTA would incentivize EU companies to explore opportunities in the Philippines.

More than 200 PEZA-registered projects involve EU investments, generating significant economic benefits. European projects in the economic zones represent a cumulative investment of P300 billion, $12 billion in exports and over 50,000 jobs.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the European Commission announced on March 18, 2024 the resumption of FTA negotiations.

The PH-EU FTA aims to provide better access for goods, services, and investments compared to the current Generalized System of Preferences Plus (GSP+) scheme.

The FTA would also promote higher standards and competitiveness, fostering sustainable development in the Philippines.

The Philippines enjoyed zero tariffs on two-thirds of its exports to the EU since 2014 under the GSP+. The government is seeking a four-year extension of this benefit, expiring at the end of 2024.

An FTA would strengthen economic ties between the Philippines and the EU, creating an attractive ecosystem for agile investors. The EU is the Philippines’ fifth-largest trading partner.

DOF eyes new tax on single-use plastic bags

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Finance (DOF) is pushing a new levy on single-use plastic bags (SUPs) to address plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices, while generating revenue for environmental programs.

It proposed a weight-based rate for easier and fairer tax administration with an excise tax of P100 per kilogram on SUP bags, with a 4-percent annual indexation beginning the third year of implementation.

“It is the government’s duty to raise awareness on the impact of non-recyclable plastics and the irreversible effects of climate change. I believe this is where strong policy intervention is needed,” Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said.

“This is a low-hanging fruit that has been on the table for more than a decade. I am confident that our legis-

lators will support this measure,” he said. The agency said that compared to other countries, the Philippines has one of the cheapest tax rates per bag at P0.40 —a stark contrast from the United Kingdom’s P326 per bag, Ireland’s P12, Virginia, USA’s P3 and Denmark’s P1. The proposal covers SUP bags that are not recyclable, such as “ice”, “labo” or ”sando” bag, with or without handles.

Under the DOF’s proposal, the price of labo bags per piece will slightly increase from P0.47 to P0.82,

while sando bags will be priced at P0.51 to P0.91 each. The DOF expects the government to raise P31.52 billion in revenues from 2025 to 2028, which it said should be earmarked for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)’s solid waste management program in municipalities.

The proposed measure seeks to curb the high volume of mismanaged plastics in the country and serves as the Philippines’ contribution to the global movement of reducing pollution and adopting more sustainable

practices while raising revenues to spur economic growth, it said.

Data from the World Bank showed that the Philippines is the third largest contributor of mismanaged plastic entering the ocean each year with 750,000 metric tons.

Plastics are found to emit greenhouse gasses (GHG) throughout their lifecycle–from production to end of life.

The country’s vulnerability to climate change puts it at risk of losing 13.6 percent of its economic output by 2040 if not addressed, the DOF said.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

of 132.11 megawatts (MW) for the Philippines in a show of solidarity for energy conservation and sustainability.

This represents an increase of 110.73 percent from last year’s savings of 62.69 MW.

“We are pleased to see such an impact in electricity savings during last Saturday’s Earth Hour. This only demonstrates our people’s dedication to safeguarding our planet. By coming together for this symbolic gesture, we send a powerful message of unity and commitment to sustainable practices,” Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said.

Lotilla said energy conservation practice should go beyond the Earth Hour.

“As we enter the warm and dry season coupled with the El Niño phenomenon, let us sustain the momentum in order to prevent supply strain due to shifts in peak demand consumption brought about by increased cooling needs “ Lotilla said.

Individuals, communities and businesses rallied to demonstrate their commitment on Saturday, taking actions against climate change and promoting sustainable energy consumption.

PRIVATE sector leaders expressed their full support to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as he deepened ties with the United States during US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s diplomatic visit to the country on March 19.

Blinken visited Manila to reinforce the relationship between the two countries and explore further cooperation on economic, technology and security investments in the region.

The Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) expressed strong support to any effort to strengthen ties between the Philippines and the United

States.

“The US government actively encouraging American businesses to invest in the Philippines is hugely beneficial for our economy, and so we are fully committed to cooperation,” PSAC strategic lead convenor and Aboitiz Group president and chief executive Sabin Aboitiz said.

“President Marcos Jr.’s meeting with President Biden was definitely promising, and we look forward to continued progress in our bilateral relations,” Aboitiz said.

Blinken visited Malacañang for a courtesy call where he met the Presi-

dent, the PSAC and key officials to reiterate the US commitment to developing the Philippines’ capabilities as its oldest ally in the Indo-Pacific region. He said that since President Marcos’ meeting with US President Joseph Biden Jr. in May, the two countries had achieved remarkable progress in their relationship.

“Our focus, our determination when it comes to the Indo-Pacific and our engagement there, and specifically the relationship between our countries, could not be greater, could not be stronger, could not be more de-

termined,” said Blinken.

The President welcomed the Secretary of State, the second White House official to be received by the country in a week following US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo.

Raimondo led the first US Presidential Trade and Investment Mission (PTIM) to the Philippines on March 11 to 12. She led a delegation of 22 top US businesses to meet and collaborate with Philippine business groups organized by PSAC. The mission resulted in over $1 billion investments from American companies.

THE Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) reported on Monday a groundbreaking achievement in crossbreeding buffalo that produced the highest milk yield in the Philippines. Crossbred buffalo codenamed 7UP15001 yielded 3,883.7 kilograms of milk over a 299-day lactation period, surpassing the typical lactation period and average daily milk yield for both dairy buffalo and cattle.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) attributed the achievement to PCC’s Genetic Improvement Program (GIP), specifically backcrossing to enhance milk production in carabaos. It said 7UP15001 is 87.5-percent Bulgarian Murrah and 12.5-percent swamp buffalo.

Backcrossing involves mating

purebred riverine buffaloes with native carabaos.

The resulting offspring (F1) are then mated with purebred bulls to increase riverine blood percentage (F2, F3, F4). PCC avoids inbreeding depression through this approach. Crossbred carabaos grow faster and produce significantly more milk than native carabaos. Backcrossing with purebred Murrah further increases milk yield, the PCC said.

The increased productivity translates to higher income potential for small-scale farmers, boosting their financial situation.

The PCC said it focuses on breeding animals adaptable to the Philippine climate with minimal resource requirements. Othel V. Campos

APPRECIATION NIGHT. Metrojet Engineering (Clark) Ltd. (MEC) general manager Sarith Vaikuntan (fourth from left) expresses gratitude to Clark Development Corp. (CDC) and other partners for their support in MEC’s

22 at the Clark

Complex, Clark Freeport are CDC

VST Devanadera (third from left), MEC chief executive Gary Dolski, and

and

Charlene David (left).

AGRICULTURE FINANCING. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) turn over the Agricultural Value Chain Financing (AVCF)

Project to the Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC) in a ceremony on Feb. 15, 2024 at the BSP head office in Manila. Leading the ceremony are BSP

Deputy Governor Bernadette

Romulo-Puyat (fifth from right), together with BSP acting director Mynard Bryan Mojica, ADB consultants Virginio Jamon and Ma. Piedad Geron, ADB project analyst Marie Jessamine Mitra, ACPC executive director Jocelyn Alma Badiola (with document), ACPC directors Magdalena Casuga and Noel Clarence Ducusin, ACPC officer Jenny Aspilan, BSP acting director Rochelle Tomas and ACPC officer Emmalyn Guinto.

By Othel V. Campos

pioneer eco-friendly public transportation by offering taxi services exclusively with VinFast electric vehicles.

It aims to provide transportation services to 80 percent in Metro Manila by September or October 2024 and subsequently expand to Cebu and Davao next year.

has stakes in technology and industry, trade and services and social enterprise.

The company is pursuing plans to launch transport operations in the Philippines in 2024, aiming to

STATE-RUN Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) is seeking proposals to help transform its existing port in Batangas province into a P5-billion launching port for offshore wind developers (OSW).

PNOC president Oliver Butalid said the company’s board committed to converting its existing bulk cargo handling international port into a dedicated launching port to support and spur OSW development in the country.

“We are interested, and actually eager to accept solicited and unsolicited proposals for it. And the proposal that we are looking for is a ‘fund, operate, build’ proposal under the new PPP Code which we are expecting the IRR to come out hopefully this month,” Butalid said.

“The wind corridor of BatangasMindoro, of which we have a port right smack of that, the ESB port can service a potential 32 gigawatts of four or five developers,” he said.

Butalid said PNOC already received interest from foreign companies, including from an investment fund in New York.

He said the investment fund would have to look for an ideal OSW port operator. “It has to be an investor who will fund it, estimated to be $100 million,” the PNOC executive said.

He said operating an OSW port is a very specialized operation, as it is based on the tight schedule of the developers that will book the area.

PNOC’s 19.2-hectare property in Mabini, Batangas was originally proposed as the PNOC Energy Supply Base, but the new management decided to revise the project after consultations with OSW proponents.

Butalid said they planned to engage the UP National Engineering Center to help with the feasibility study for the project. Alena Mae S. Flores

The initiative reflects GSM’s commitment to promoting sustainable electric vehicle (EV) use throughout Southeast Asia.

GSM plans to bring in 15,000 EV taxis, specifically VinFast EVs from Vietnam. About 80 percent of the fleet

will be deployed in Metro Manila.

GSM introduced the first pure electric taxi service in Vietnam called Green SM Taxi in April 2023. It ushered in a new era of taxis that are smart, pollutant and noise-free and environment-friendly.

The Philippine government’s recent meeting with Vingroup during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s visit to Vietnam in January 2024 underscored the alignment between GSM’s plans and the government’s push for sustainable investments, particularly in the transition towards electric mobility.

By

Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said Monday it blocked the cryptocurrency site Binance in the Philippines after the regulator found it to have offered an investment and trading platform without the necessary license from the commission.

The SEC said in a statement it proceeded with the blocking of the online presence of Binance and approved the filing of a formal request with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) for assistance in blocking the website and other web pages used by the company.

“The SEC has identified the aforementioned platform and concluded that the public’s continued access to these websites/apps poses a threat to the security of the funds of investing Filipinos,” SEC chairman Emilio Aquino said in the letter-request addressed to the NTC. Binance defines itself as a facility for trading financial instruments and offers investment products -- including spot trading using leverage, futures contracts, option contracts, cryptocurrency savings accounts, cryptocurrency staking services and a platform for initial coin offerings.

Touted as the largest cryptocur-

rency website in the world, Binance has an average daily trading volume of $65 billion covering more than 402 cryptocurrencies, with a membership of over 183 million, according to its website.

The SEC said, however, Binance had not secured license to solicit investments from the public, nor to create or operate an exchange for the buying and selling of securities, as required by Republic Act No. 8799, or The Securities Regulation Code (SRC).

It said the group had been employing promotional campaigns on social media to attract Filipinos to engage in investment and trading activities using its platforms. An app version is also downloadable on Google Playstore and the Apple App Store. The SEC in November 2023 issued a public advisory to warn the public against investing in and using Binance.

THE Philippines showcased its strategic advantage as a regional hub for innovation and sustainability-driven industries, particularly in green metals and mineral processing at a roundtable discussion during the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) 2024 conference.

PDAC, the world’s leading mineral exploration and mining event, offered the perfect platform for the government to underscore its commitment to the global shift towards clean energy technologies.

“Our intention right now is to

have our minerals processed locally to supply local industry needs or export higher value materials. Let me stress that we remain committed to support the global energy transition but with the clearer goal of getting more economic value from our minerals. Please join us and together, let’s make it happen in the Philippines,” said Board of Investments executive director for industry development services Ma. Corazon Halili-Dichosa.

The Philippines, with its strategic

location and rich natural resources, aims to become the preferred destination for key sectors like electric vehicles (EVs), smart manufacturing, semiconductors, green metals, high-tech agriculture, renewable energy (RE) and data centers/telecoms. The Philippine delegation presented to ten companies, underlining the crucial role of minerals in the global energy transition and emphasizing the country’s abundant mineral resources. With roughly nine million hectares

of mineral potential, the Philippines highlighted its significant deposits of copper, nickel, iron, chromite, cobalt, gold and rare earth elements.

The government provide policies that offer business-friendly environment for industry players, with market-driven strategies, international partnerships, and streamlined processes. This includes lifting key bans, fiscal incentives, and simplified procedures. The Philippines remains a reliable metals and minerals supplier. Othel V. Campos

HARIMANOK Inc., the franchise company of JT’s Manukan Grille, said it signed a joint venture agreement with food court operator Asian Food Mall to open of a new outlet in Singapore in May 2024.

The new international store will be located at Asian Food Mall in Lucky Plaza along Orchard Road. Lucky Plaza is one of the most successful shopping centers in Singapore.

Joel Torre, actor and chief executive of Harimanok Inc. said he is excited to represent the inasal in Singapore because the city-state is a significant socio-cultural and food hub.

“The move is in line with our vision to make JT’s a global brand, serving Filipino regional food to our kababayan expats and people of other nationalities as well,” said Torre, who is also an

award-winning actor and indie film producer/director.

“We are excited for the arrival of JT’s Manukan Grille to the vibrant and diverse food scene in Singapore. Together with Joel Torre, we look forward to satisfying the taste buds of the locals and the Filipino community here, bringing the authentic taste of Bacolod Chicken Inasal to the Lion City,” said Wong Ban Ming, managing director of Asian Food Mall.

This is JT’s Manukan Grille’s second venture internationally. The restaurant opened a branch in Guam in 2019, but had to close shop at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

The Singapore store is the company’s

JT’s Manukan Grille expands

PNOC president Oliver Butalid

New report says climate indices broke marks in ‘23

RECORDS were once again broken for greenhouse gas levels, surface temperatures, ocean heat and acidification, sea level rise, ice cover and glacier retreat, a new global report issued by the UN weather agency (WMO) last week showed.

Heatwaves, floods, droughts, wildfires and rapidly intensifying tropical cyclones caused misery and mayhem, upending everyday life for millions and inflicting many billions of dollars in economic losses, according to the WMO State of the Global Climate 2023 report.

“Sirens are blaring across all major indicators... Some records aren’t just chart-topping, they’re chart-busting. And changes are speeding up,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres in a video message for the launch.

Based on data from multiple agencies, the study confirmed that 2023 was the warmest year on record, with the global average near-surface temperature at 1.45°C above the preindustrial baseline. It crowned the warmest 10-year period on record.

“The scientific knowledge about climate change has existed for more than five decades, and yet we missed an entire generation of opportunity,” WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo said presenting the report to the media in Geneva. She urged the climate change response to be governed by the “welfare of future generations, but not the short-term economic interests.”

“As Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization, I am now sounding the red alert about the state of the global climate,” she said. However, climate change is about much more than air temperatures, the WMO experts explain. The unprecedented ocean warmth and sea level rise, glacier retreat and Antarctic sea ice loss are also part of the grim picture. UN News

A man carries a plastic bucket across the cracked bed of a dried-up pond in Vietnam’s southern Ben Tre province on March 19, 2024. Every day, farmer Nguyen Hoai Thuong prays in vain for rain to fall on the cracked dry earth of her garden in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta— the country’s ‘rice bowl’ agricultural heartland. A blazing monthlong heatwave has brought drought, parching the land in Thuong’s home of Ben Tre province, 130 kilometers (80 miles) south of business hub Ho Chi Minh City. AFP

PH, 6 others join initiative to fight pollution from plastics, pesticides

THE governments of the Philippines, Ecuador, India, Kenya, Laos, Uruguay and Vietnam have come together to launch a $379-million initiative to combat pollution from the use of pesticides and plastics in agriculture.

Chemicals play a crucial role in farming, with nearly 4 billion tons of pesticides and 12 billion kilograms of agricultural plastics used every year.

Despite their benefits for food yields, these chemicals pose

DENR, Rizal tie up to protect environment and map out disaster resilience programs

RIZAL’S climate action programs are receiving a boost from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources with the recent launch of eight multistakeholder collaboration projects for environmental protection and disaster resilience.

DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga and Rizal Governor Nina Ricci Ynares activated Project TRANSFORM (Transdisciplinary Approach for Resilience and Environmental Sustainability through Multistakeholder Engagement) with programs to enhance food and water security, waste management, and sustainable livelihood.

“Project TRANSFORM is a two-yearold initiative of the DENR that seeks to converge efforts and expertise of the government, academe, private sector, and civil society in the country’s cities and municipalities nationwide to alleviate poverty through green and blue jobs, enhance community resilience to the impacts of climate change, and promote strong public-private partnerships,” said

significant risks to human health and the environment. As many as 11,000 people die from the toxic effects of pesticides annually, and chemical residues can degrade ecosystems, diminishing soil health and farmers’ resilience to climate change. The opening burning of agricultural plastics also contributes to an air pollution crisis that causes one in nine deaths worldwide.

Highly hazardous pesticides and mismanaged agricultural plastics release toxic persistent organic pollutants (POPs) – chemicals which don’t break down in the environment and contaminate air, water, and food. These inputs are generally cheaper than sustainable alternatives, giving farmers little incentive to adopt better practices.

The Financing Agrochemical

Loyzaga. Project TRANSFORM is an offshoot of a panel discussion in the first multistakeholder forum of the DENR in 2022, with Ormoc City, Leyte, as the pilot implementation area.

Project TRANSFORM was launched last year in the provinces of Bataan and Surigao del Norte. It is now being implemented in the municipalities of Limay, Mariveles, and Orion in Bataan province and in the cities of Malimono, San Francisco, and Burgos in the province of Surigao del Norte. The province of Rizal, with a land area of 1,308.92 square kilometers and a population of over 3.3 million people, hosts five protected areas. These are the Hinulugang Taktak Protected Landscape, the Pamitinan Protected Landscape, the Kaliwa River Forest Reserve, the Upper Marikina River Basin Protected Landscape and the National Park, Wildlife Sanctuary and Game Preserve recognized under Presidential Proclamation 1636.

Reduction and Management Program–or FARM–led by the UN Environment Program (UNEP) with financial support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), seeks to change that, elaborating the business case for banks and policy-makers to reorient policy and financial resources towards farmers to help them adopt lowand non-chemical alternatives to toxic agrochemicals and facilitate a transition towards better practices. The five-year program is projected to prevent over 51,000 tons of hazardous pesticides and over 20,000 tons of plastic waste from being released, while avoiding 35,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions and protecting over 3 million hectares of land from degradation as farms and farmers convert to low-chemical and

non-chemical alternatives.

“Our current agricultural system relies on harmful chemicals, this is not necessary. FARM offers a powerful alternative model, empowering farmers with the knowledge and resources to transition to sustainable practices that safeguard our health and environment and also boost yields and profits,” said Anil Sookdeo, chemicals coordinator at the GEF.

To do this, the FARM program will support government regulation to phase out POPs-containing agrochemicals and agri-plastics and adopt better management standards, while strengthening banking, insurance and investment criteria to improve the availability of effective pest control, production alternatives and trade in sustainable produce. UNEP News

Pilmico’s Sun Moon Star bread flour sack is turned into a drawstring bag, face mask, and tote bag.

especially flour, through the use of quality packaging. At the same time, by upcycling these sacks, they fulfill a greater purpose of contributing to sustainability.

Pilmico’s Kutitap Care Package with pieces of bread and eggs was distributed to beneficiaries in Tarlac.

‘JUANA BANANA’. In celebration of National Women’s Month, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Women’s Center headed by TESDA Women’s Center chief Mylene Somera, teamed up with Pilmico Foods Corp. to launch their newest signature bread ‘Juana Banana.’ They named the bread after Juana, to represent all Filipino women. Shown (from left) are Ms. Somera, TESDA Executive Director for Administrative Service Juliet Orasco; TESDA chief of staff Abe Arenga, Pilmico Technical Service Manager for Flour and chef Carla Valencia and Pilmico Government Relations Manager Theressa Castillo.

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

Pia Wurtzbach unveils wax figure at Madame Tussauds Singapore

By Abigail Adriatico

MISS Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach delighted fans with a post sharing her new “twin” from the Madame Tussauds wax museum in Singapore.

In her post on Instagram, the beauty queen shared a few photos of herself with the lifesize wax figure designed after her look during the Miss Universe 2016 grand coronation night, where she wore a royal blue Michael Cinco ball gown. The crown held by the wax figure is a replica of the Phoenix Mikimoto Crown she received during her reign as Miss Universe 2015.

“Happy to see my “twin” again whom I fondly call Pia 2,” said Pia in the caption. The beauty queen also thanked those who came to the wax museum and expressed how much fun she had as she had the chance to reminisce about her pageant days.

“Singapore, that was so much fun!

Thank you for coming to Madame Tussauds (especially those who flew in for this!). Everyone was such a trooper for being so game with all the activities. Definitely, such a thrilling moment reminiscing my pageant days with all of you,” said the beauty queen.

Pia is the first Filipino to be able to have her own wax figure at the Madame Tussauds wax museum. It will be on display at the museum in Singapore until Sept 1. Madame Tussauds is a wax museum known for its wax figures bearing the resemblance of famous figures throughout history. It has many locations all over the world.

Jake Cuenca takes on BL role with Baron Geisler

By Nickie Wang

ACTOR Jake Cuenca is keeping himself busy with numerous projects. In addition to his role in the hit series What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim? he’s also starring in the TV5 sitcom Jack and Jill sa Diamond Hills Ramirez

In the pipeline, Jake is teaming up with Baron Geisler for two films. The first, Miro, is an action thriller directed by Lester Pimentel Ong, known for his work on Iron Heart. For their second collaboration, they’ll be taking a surprising turn – a Boys Love (BL) themed movie tentatively titled Change Oil under the helm of Cebuano director Frasco When asked about the level of intimacy in the BL project, Jake kept it lighthearted.

“We’ll get to that after the action movie where we have to kill each other first. Then maybe the love can begin,” he said in jest.

Jake’s openness to different roles is evident in his recent collaborations. “At this point in my career, I want to work with everyone,” he explained. “From Richard Gutierrez and Arjo Atayde to Paulo Avelino and Baron Geisler, I believe working with the best brings out the best in you.”

IN

Maundy

Following

The

The award-winning documentary program The Atom Araullo Specials

“At the same time also, when are we going to do this collaboration? When we’re 50? I tell everyone I’m working with that now is the time to do all these collaborations when the limelight is still on us, when people still care about us when it’s time to show people these things now because the last thing you’d want to do is start assembling a group of actors when we’re like 55. But, I mean, you can do it by all means, but I feel like now is the time,” he added. In addition to his work on television and film, Jake is also passionate about theater.

Last year, he starred in a production that challenged traditional notions of masculinity, titled Dick . This followed his 2018 debut in the play Lungs

“The audience response is immediate, and that gives me a huge adrenaline rush onstage,” Manila Standard Entertainment. “The acting is also different compared to TV or film. It really hones your skills

“That’s why I love theater,” he continued. “It’s about the incredible people who come together to turn small dreams into reality. It’s about putting everything on the line, taking risks for the performance, rising to the occasion, and proving to yourself that you can do it. It’s about the simple act of transforming a page into a living experience.”

Jake Cuenca expresses his desire to take on any off-beat roles given to him

Teens’ favorite animated features are made available starting at 9:00 a.m. with Wonderpark followed by Scooby Doo at 10:30 a.m., Superman Returns at 12:00 nn, and Smurfs The Lost Village at 2:00 p.m. Then catch another installment of The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies at 3:00 p.m., followed by Farm to Table at 5:30 p.m., Seven Sundays at 7:00 p.m., Forrest Gump at 9:00 p.m., and GMA Public Affairs’ “Brigada” at 11:00 pm. Cherish our Lord this Lenten Season through these Holy Week specials from March 28 - 30 only on GMA-7.

Baron Geisler is also set to star alongside Jake in action thriller ‘Santo Miro’

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

Explore off-the-beaten-path Philippines this summer

By Nickie Wang

WITH the official start of summer in the Philippines declared by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on March 22, the end of the northeast monsoon brings a surge in travel plans.

While Boracay and Baguio remain perennial favorites, a trove of hidden gems promises a unique and refreshing summer adventure for intrepid travelers.

For those who crave something different, Smart Communications curated a list of local destinations and experiences that might just pique your interest.

Nestled amidst the verdant landscapes of South Cotabato, Lake Sebu emerges as a tranquil haven boasting cascading waterfalls, picturesque boat tours, and Southeast Asia’s highest zipline, beckoning adventurers to immerse themselves in its natural splendor.

Meanwhile, in the serene enclave of Virac, Catanduanes, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and laid-back island vibes await exploration. From the historic allure of Bato Church to the adrenaline-pumping waves of Puraran Beach, Virac offers an idyllic retreat for those seeking solace in nature’s embrace.

For underwater enthusiasts, Apo Reef in Occidental Mindoro presents an unparalleled marine spectacle as the world’s second-largest coral reef system. Divers and snorkelers can revel in the vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters, creating unforgettable memories beneath the waves.

But for those with a penchant for adrenaline-fueled endeavors, a myriad of thrilling experiences awaits.

Embark on the Discovery Trail at Masungi Georeserve in Rizal, where hanging bridges, limestone formations, and hidden caves offer an exhilarating trekking escapade amidst nature’s wonders.

Alternatively, soar above the stunning landscapes of Pampanga with an Ultralight Plane Tour, granting adventurers a panoramic vista of Mt. Arayat and its surrounds, promising an unforgettable aerial perspective

A scene from ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’

‘Ghostbusters’ ices out competition

GHOSTBUSTERS : Frozen Empire scared its way to the top of the North American box office this weekend, taking in an estimated $45.2 million in what one analyst called a “unique and impressive opening.”

“Only four other comedic series in the last 27 years have lasted five episodes,” analyst David A. Gross said, with ticket sales for the latest entry in Sony’s comedy series coming in “well above average for the genre.”

Still, with a $100 million budget, Frozen Empire has a way to go to reach

NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

Shticks

Joseph Peter Gonzales

Kim Chiu opens up about love and loss

ACTRESS and TV host Kim Chiu opened up about her current relationship status in a recent interview. “It feels a little empty right now, but that’s okay,” she admitted. “I see it as part of life and growing up.”

Known for being caring and compassionate towards the people she loves whether it’s her family or boyfriend, does she consider herself loveable?

“Absolutely!” she replied. “That’s why I have such an abundance of patience and give my all in relationships. In the end, I won’t have regrets, just lessons learned.”

While both of her past relationships, one lasting five years and the other eleven, haven’t worked out, Kim remains optimistic.

“Maybe someday,” she said thoughtfully.

“Not today, not tomorrow, not yesterday. I don’t know when, but growing up, I’ve always been used to giving love freely.”

“Maybe I should shorten the next one,” she said in jest.

The actress dreams of finding the right partner, “Someone who will give me his unconditional love.”

Her last relationship was with fellow actor Xian Lim . When asked about the rumors of his alleged involvement with film producer Iris Lee, Kim said, “Honestly, I have no idea about that.”

Naturally, fans are curious about the reason behind their breakup. “I can’t divulge details,” she explained. “He might get upset. All I can say is it was a mutual decision. We both wanted to move on.”

“It’s very personal,” Chiu concluded. “You just have to accept that there are things you don’t have control over anymore. You can’t force something that’s not meant to be.”

***

Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzalez will headline a new sitcom titled Da Pers Family on TV5, alongside their twins Atasha and Andres

The Kapatid Network revealed the news during their recent trade launch. The sitcom, directed by Danni Caparas , is set to premiere in May.

profitability. Co-written by Jason Reitman, whose father Ivan Reitman directed the original Ghostbusters in 1984, the film teams a new cadre of ghost catchers (Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon) with the veterans (Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson) as they take on a frightening deity trying to launch a new Ice Age

Meanwhile Warner Bros.’ sci-fi epic Dune: Part Two , about war and survival in an inhospitable sand-covered planet, again managed a strong second place, taking in an estimated $17.6 million for the Friday-

through-Sunday period.

It has now earned $233.3 million in the US and Canada and $341 million internationally, industry watcher Exhibitor Relations reported.

In third, dropping two spots from last weekend, was Universal and DreamWorks Animation’s martial arts comedy Kung Fu Panda 4 , at $16.8 million.

Immaculate , a new psychological horror film from indie studio Neon and starring Sydney Sweeney placed fourth at $5.4 million.

Sweeney, a graduate of the hit TV series Euphoria and the recent rom-com Anyone But You , plays a nun who – despite her virginity – becomes pregnant. Other nuns in her remote Italian convent at first treat her as the next Virgin Mary – but then things start getting creepy –very creepy. And in the fifth spot was Lionsgate’s Arthur the King , at $4.4 million. Mark Wahlberg plays an adventurer who befriends an injured stray dog. AFP

The sitcom marks a reunion project for Aga, Charlene, and Danni. The trio previously collaborated on the top-rated ABS-CBN sitcom Oki Doki Doc from 1994 to 2000, followed by another sitcom called “OK Fine Whatever” from 20022006. Interestingly, Oki Doki Doc is where Aga and

Rizal’s Masungi Georeserve is home to the Discovery Trail where travel enthusiasts can explore the natural rock formations and mysterious caves

TUESDAY, MARCH 26, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

Capture Mount Fuji’s majesty

Top locations for breathtaking views of Japan’s cultural and artistic symbol

FVery Wang Nickie

Wang

OR nearly half a year, a pristine blanket of snow adorns Mount Fuji’s perfectly symmetrical cone. This iconic image has become a global symbol of Japan, inspiring countless works of art and photography.

Mount Fuji emerges as a breathtaking vision during winter (November to February). This slumbering giant plays a game of peek-a-boo throughout most of the year. The crisp, clear skies of the winter season give the highest chance of unobstructed views of Mount Fuji’s iconic snowcapped peak.

There are a few options for visiting Mount Fuji. Conveniently located just 100 kilometers from Tokyo, it’s easily accessible as a day trip. Travelers can choose to drive themselves (approximately a two-hour journey) or join a guided tour that typically includes bus transportation (around three hours). One such reputable tour is available on Klock. The Klook trip begins by meeting at a designated spot at 7:55 a.m., where you’ll board a bus with

your fellow tourists. By half past 10, you’ll arrive at the famed Mount Fuji 5th Station, aptly nicknamed the Sky Palace. This vantage point rewards visitors with aweinspiring panoramic vistas. Should inclement weather necessitate a change in plans, the itinerary offers equally captivating alternative destinations

Live, work, and connect at lyf

Guests

By Angelica Villanueva

WHEN the pandemic hit us, one of the great things it taught us was quickly adapting to work remotely – that a work-from-home setup was indeed possible. With the right and fast Internet connection, together with your laptop or iPad, you’re good to go.

In fact, this has been practiced even before COVID-19 existed by most people who do freelancing. But four years later after the pandemic began,

more people tried to embrace this. The rise of remote work helped people to do leisure travel without affecting their work. Travelers look for accommodation that can cater to both productivity and comfort. Enter hotels with co-working spaces – a hospitality trend offering the best of both worlds.

Nestled in the heart of Cebu City, experience-led social living space lyf Cebu offers a vibrant mix of work and leisure options. It’s a short walk from Fuente Osmena Park and provides

such as the Fujisan World Heritage Center or the Travel Diary Museum. At midday, travelers can savor packed meals or indulge in the local cuisine offered by nearby restaurants, immersing themselves in the regional flavors.

In the afternoon, the journey continues with a

easy access to public transportation, making it ideal for exploring the city.

“lyf Cebu City is not merely a space; it’s a dynamic, vibrant lifestyle that we’re bringing to Cebu for the very first time. We are thrilled to bridge the gap between local warmth and international co-living innovation here in Visayas and Mindanao as the first international co-living serviced residence,” said Rey Vergel Mulat, lyf Champion (Residence Manager).

By blending the concepts of coworking and co-living, The Ascott Limited’s development aims to create dynamic environments where residents can connect and share resources. The communal aspect of these living arrangements encourages creativity, innovation, and a sense of belonging among residents.

lyf Cebu caters to diverse needs.

Solo travelers will find comfort in the “One of a Kind,” a cozy studio with a

stop at the serene shores of Lake Kawaguchi. Here, the picturesque lake reflects the grandeur of Mount Fuji in a stunning display. The afternoon light paints the mountain from a different perspective, creating a scene reminiscent of a postcard come to life.

Culturally curious travelers might partake in a traditional matcha ceremony, enjoying the unique flavor of this special Japanese green tea while soaking in the view.

Next, you’ll visit Oshino Hakkai, a tranquil region renowned for its crystal-clear springs fed by Mount Fuji’s melted snow. This serene escape provides a moment of peace and reflection amidst the natural beauty.

The itinerary then transitions to a contrasting experience with a visit to the Gotemba Premium Outlets. This expansive retail complex caters to enthusiastic shoppers, offering a plethora of brands within its domain. Here, travelers can indulge in a retail therapy session, finding luxurious brands or practical finds. Interestingly, this shopping center also offers a unique perspective of Mount Fuji, allowing you to see the mountain bathed in the afternoon light, potentially offering a different color palette compared to the morning views.

The tour culminates with a return to the designated drop-off point at 7:00 p.m.

Although dormant since an eruption in 1707, with the last signs of activity in the 1960s, Mount Fuji remains a volcano. As a precaution due to the potential impact of a future eruption, the mountain is continuously monitored.

queen-sized bed featuring a charging ledge for ultimate convenience. The property offers twin rooms in two layouts for traveling companions: side-by-side or feet-to-feet. These rooms share the same amenities as the solo option. Groups or families can spread out in the “All Together”, a spacious layout with four bedrooms, a kitchen, and a living area-–perfect for creating lasting memories together.

The “Connect” area is your onestop shop for collaboration and focused work. High-speed internet, comfy chairs, and ample power outlets create a workspace designed for maximum efficiency. Need some quiet time? The “Nook” provides a private haven for uninterrupted focus. When it’s time to unwind, head to the “Stadium” lounge area for casual relaxation and socializing.

Bond over shared meals at “Bond”, the fully equipped social kitchen. Here, you can create delicious dishes,

The ‘Collab’ room includes a long table and a television screen where groups can have a space dedicated for meetings

exchange recipes, and share the joy of cooking.

Move the party from the kitchen to the “Dip” pool area. Or, head to the “Unwind” rooftop clubhouse for stunning views, drinks, and unforgettable Cebu sunsets. Burn some calories at the 24-hour “Burn” gym, featuring top-notch equipment. For an extra dose of fun, take the indoor slide from Burn straight into the outdoor area of Bond! lyf takes the chore out of laundry with the “Wash and Hang” social launderette. Play games, read, or simply hang out while your clothes get clean.

Whether you’re looking for a new way to live, work, or simply connect with others, co-living at lyf Cebu City offers an exciting glimpse into the future of experiential-led social living. Embrace the new era of shared experiences and discover a sense of belonging unlike any other.

The

Tourists can shop at the Gotemba Premium Outlets while enjoying the beautiful view of Mount Fuji from a distance

The Chureito Pagoda is one of the spots tourists can go to and take scenic photos