Manila Standard - 2024 April 29 - Monday

Heat, strike shut down schools

DepEd orders two-day suspension of face-to-face classes

ONLINE classes are still suspended from April 29 to 30 in view of the latest heat index forecast of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), according to the Department of Education (DepEd).

The decision by DepEd was partly based on the recent announcement of a nationwide strike of major transport groups from April 29 to May 1 (Labor Day). This means all public schools are directed to keep holding asynchronous classes or distance learning for Monday and Tuesday next week.

“Likewise, teaching and non-teaching personnel in all public schools shall not be required to report to their respective stations,” DepEd said in its latest advisory.

The education department, however, said activities organized by regional and schools’ division offices may push through as scheduled. These include Regional Athletic Association Meets and other division or school level programs.

Public school administrators were reminded that the implementation of measures for the safety of all participants should be guaranteed. The DepEd advisory does not cover private schools, but they have the option to implement the same.

Based on its computed two-day forecast as of 5PM on Saturday (April 27), PAGASA said at least 32 areas

Militants launch three-day nationwide public transport strike

MILITANT groups will begin a threeday transportation strike today to protest the government’s public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program. President Marcos Jr. earlier this month said there would be no further extension

Zubiri admits no numbers yet to pass Cha-cha

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATE President Juan Miguel

Zubiri on Sunday admitted Charter Change can be easily defeated in the Senate as he sees three or four more senators who are not yet convinced on amending some specific economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution. During an interview at DWPM (63 AM radio), Zubiri was questioned about Chacha losing in the Upper Chamber.

“And I can count, and I still can count about three or four who are not

of the program’s April 30 deadline for the franchise consolidation.

The PUVMP was launched in 2017 but its full implementation has been delayed because of opposition by some transport organizations.

The strike’s convergence areas in Metro Manila will include Agoncillo, Alabang, Anonas, Baclaran, Katipunan, Litex, Monumento, Novaliches, Philcoa, Sucat, and Taft. Members of labor group Kilusang

Mayo Uno (KMU) and party-list Bayan Muna are set to join the driver’s group PISTON.

PISTON deputy secretary general Ruben Baylon said although jeepneys

US to fully equip PH military by 2028—envoy

By Rey Requejo

PHILIPPINE Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez expressed optimism that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), with the help of the United States, will be fully equipped against threats in the West Philippine Sea by the end of the Marcos administration.

Romualdez stressed that the Philippines is at its “best relationship” with the US right now, with the two nations “rebooting” their relationship at the helm of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Amid China’s aggression in the West Philippine Sea, Romualdez said both the Republican and Democratic parties are in support of the Philippines, believing that the country’s armed forces should be strengthened to improve its defensive and deterrence capabilities.

Romualdez was referring to the bipartisan bill earlier introduced by two

By

Dangerous warmth in 36 areas; Iba, Zambales sizzles at 53°C

FILIPINOS would have to bear with the awfully hot weather over the next two days, as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said 36 areas nationwide remain at risk of experiencing dangerous levels of heat.

Latest forecast of the state weather bureau showed that Iba, Zambales exceeded the threshold on Sunday, when it registered 53 degrees Celsius in the Climate Heat Index. PA -

GASA placed it in the red zone, indicating ‘extreme danger.’ “Values beyond the 53°C Heat Index are estimates, which might already be unrealistic. Such values should there -

yet convinced,” the lawmaker said.

“But practicality-wise, I have so much difficulty in getting votes for the economic provisions. It’s very hard for me to obtain the needed three-fourths vote for the economic provisions,” he further said.

As of now, they lack the number of votes for Chacha, which provides full foreign ownership on public utilities, education and advertising.

“To be honest, we don’t have the 18 votes as of now for the economic provisions alone.”

“What you will ad to it […] the political provisions […] which are very unpopular among our people. And I know the Senate is very sensitive to the will of the people. I doubt if we can even get and muster half the Senate to agree to the political provisions,” he said.

He also surmised that Chacha might be a campaign issue among senators who are re-electionists.

Zubiri has pointed out, however, that he is not losing hope because “I also believe that there should be constitutional reforms.”

“We have to be practical about it. So, I and Sen. Sonny Angara talked that if we cannot get the number, then this can be made a political issue when the 2025 elections arrive.

In other words, the administration can say, we will support proChacha candidates. “Because if the administration will have 12 pro-Chacha senators who will win in the next elections, that’s an additional 12 votes coming into the 2025 elections,” he explained.

“Due to this, I suggested that if we cannot convince (anti-) chacha senators in the next few months, since we’re going for the preparations for the 2025 elections, then I would suggest the next step for the administration is to push for a proconstitutional reform stand,” further stressed the Senate leader.

When the campaign period starts, he said the administration will then push for pro-Charter Change initiatives.

On this note, it is now the public’s discretion if they will go for pro-Chacha or anti-Chacha senators.

He noted that it will eventually be boiling down to that issue.

“But as of now, we are still capable (of convincing),” he said. He related the gap for anti-charter change and pro-charter change senators in the Senate is not that big.

“So right, definitely, we ate trying our best to convince some of our colleagues. But we will respect all individual views,” he said.

US senators, Republican Bill Hagerty and Democrat Tim Kaine, to provide the Philippines with $2.5 billion to boost its defenses against external threats.

According to the Filipino diplomat, this Foreign Military Financing grant assistance from the US aims to provide the Philippines $500 million a year in the next five fiscal years up to 2029.

Romualdez said that is coordinating with Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. regarding the matter.

With billions worth of proposed defense modernization funds, Romualdez said the Philippines is seeking to pri-

fore not be interpreted in terms of their absolute magnitudes, but rather on the health risks they pose on us,” PAGASA said in its five-day computed and two-day forecast as of 5PM, April 28.

Six locations are projected to hit temperatures between 45°C to 47°C on Monday, including Laoag City, Ilocos Norte; Dagupan City, Pangasinan; Bacnotan, La Union; Aparri and Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; ISU Echague, Isabela; and Baler (Radar), Aurora.

Metro Manila and other areas in the orange zone were forecast to have a 42°C to 44°C degree weather. The heat index measures what a temperature feels like, taking into account humidity, according to PAGASA.

Extreme heat has scorched Southeast Asia in recent days, prompting thousands of schools to suspend in-person classes and authorities to issue health warnings. State meteorologists said the unusually hot weather would last until the middle of May.

HEAT KILL.

Dead fish are seen on the driedup bed of Pantabangan town which emerged after severe drought brought down the dam’s water level.

Danny Pata

The achievement did not only highlight Congress’ dedication to promptly addressing critical legislative matters but also paved the way for a renewed emphasis on oversight functions.

“Having effectively discharged our legislative duties, the House is positioned to enhance its commitment to oversight functions,” the Speaker said.

The House’s oversight functions included monitoring and evaluating the implementation of laws and policies, ensuring accountability, transparency, and the protection of the public interest.

“Through rigorous oversight, the House will actively engage in scrutinizing government actions, addressing inefficiencies, and safeguarding the integrity of our democratic institutions,” Romualdez said.

With the resumption of sessions, Congress shall prioritize three major issues within its oversight functions — the persistently high prices of rice and other essential commodities, pressing cybersecurity threats confronting government agencies, and contentious issues concerning the West Philippine Sea.

Romualdez said Congress is also deeply concerned about the widening disparity between farmgate and retail prices of essential commodities, particularly rice.

Militants...

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that fail to consolidate beginning May 1 will be apprehended, they will continue plying their routes.

“It is the right of Filipino citizens to serve their country. That is why even if the deadline lapses, drivers and operators will keep hitting the roads,” Baylon said in Filipino.

Ratziel San Juan

urday—the country’s highest this year.

nationwide will continue to experience danger level heat index, with temperatures hitting 42 to 46 degrees Celsius, including Metro Manila.

Extreme hot weather in the Philippines is expected to last until mid-May, a forecaster said Sunday, after the temperature struck a record high in Manila, the capital city.

The heat wave has spread across Southeast Asia in recent days, prompting thousands of schools to call off inperson classes and for authorities to issue health warnings.

In the Philippines, many people flocked to air-conditioned shopping malls and swimming pools for relief from the relentless heat.

“This is the hottest I’ve ever experienced here,” said Nancy Bautista, 65, whose resort in Cavite province near Manila was fully booked due to the hot weather.

“Many of our guests are friends and families. They swim in the pool to fight the heat.”

The temperature in Manila hit a record high of 38.8 degrees Celsius (101.8 degrees Fahrenheit) on Saturday with the heat index reaching 45C, data from the state weather forecaster showed.

The heat index measures what a temperature feels like, taking into ac -

count humidity.

The months of March, April and May are typically the hottest and driest time of the year, but this year’s conditions have been exacerbated by the El Niño weather phenomenon.

“All places in the country, not necessarily just Metro Manila, are expected to have hotter temperatures until the second week of May,” Glaiza Escullar of the state weather forecaster said.

“There is a possibility that the areas will exceed those temperatures being measured today until the second week of May,” she added.

Meanwhile, Camiling municipality in Tarlac province, north of Manila, recorded a temperature of 40.3C on Sat-

As the temperature rose, Gerise Reyes, 31, planned to take her twoyear-old daughter to a shopping mall near Manila.

“It’s hot here at home. This is the hottest I’ve ever experienced, especially between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm,” she said.

“We need a free aircon to cut our electricity bill.”

Global temperatures hit record highs last year, and the United Nations’ weather and climate agency said Tuesday that Asia was warming at a particularly rapid pace.

The Philippines ranks among the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. AFP

tions Act

“We will focus all our energies on these 20 measures before we adjourn for the 3rd Regular Session,” according to the Senate chief. “But we are confident we can fulfill all of our legislative commitments to the President and to the people before this year ends,” he added.

“Rest assured, all of the measures that passed Senate scrutiny have been carefully considered and thoroughly deliberated upon so that the resulting law is as near-perfect as humanly possible,” Zubiri said further.

Zubiri disclosed that one of the priority legislations—the Philippine Ecosystem and Natural Capital Accounting

oritize its maritime forces, particularly the Navy and Coast Guard.

He said the country’s Air Force will also be given precedence to acquire more fighter aircraft.

“These will come little by little, but you’ll see all of them in the next three to five years,”

Asked if the US is seeking anything in return for this aid bill, Romualdez said, “There is no such thing as a free lunch.”

“With our current relationship with America, of course, they are seeking the EDCA and VFA. But the EDCA is the most important because that will help us, especially in climate resiliency and preparedness.”

On April 22, the Philippines and

System (PENCAS) Act—is already for signature by the President when the sessions resume this Monday, April 29.

PENCAS Act is a framework that accounts for the country’s natural capital and its economic impact.

Zubiri also related that the bicameral report on two measures have already been ratified and now in the process of enrolment. These are the Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the law establishing the Negros Island Region. Another bicameral report, the one on the Real Property Valuation and Assessment Reform Act, has also been ratified by the Senate.

“Four of the 20 measures are nearing enactment into law already. The rest are for bicameral committee approval, for second and final reading approval, or

the United States officially opened the 39th iteration of their annual joint military exercise or Balikatan, which is the largest exercise they have conducted so far.

For the first time, the French Navy participated in the Balikatan with around 100 personnel.

From the US, around 11,000 personnel are participating, including 3,700 marines, 1,200 soldiers, 4,000 US Navy personnel, 400 airmen and Air National Guardsmen, as well as 750 US Special Operations troops.

The AFP, meanwhile, deployed 5,000 personnel, mainly from Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) and Western Command (WESCOM), to join the Balikatan activities.

awaiting committee approval. We are confident we can finish deliberations on these bills in its final stages before we adjourn sine die on May 24,” Zubiri said.

Two priority measures—the AntiAgricultural Economic Sabotage Act and the Self-Reliant Defense Posture Act (SRDP)—are both awaiting bicameral conference committee approval, while the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program Act is already approved on final reading and was transmitted to the House of Representatives for action.

The following priority measures, meanwhile, are currently pending approval on second reading:

1. Anti-Financial Accounts Scamming Act

2. VAT on Digital Services/Transac-

Military forces of the Philippines and the US are conducting activities outside the territorial waters of the country— beyond 12 nautical miles or 22.22 kilometers off the west coast of Palawan— for the first time since the inception of Exercise Balikatan. The exercise will run until May 10.

Another vessel of China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) meanwhile was spotted Sunday near the “Balikatan” multilateral maritime exercise (MME) area off Palawan waters.

The PLAN vessel (bow number 578) was spotted around 9 a.m. between seven and eight nautical miles of the MME flotilla, sailing in the northern part of Palawan as of this posting, Western Command (Wescom)

3. Amendments to the Government Procurement Reform Act

4. Blue Economy Act

5. Waste-to-Energy Act

6. Mandatory Reserve Officer’s Training Corps (ROTC) Act

7. Unified System of Separation, Retirement and Pension of MUPs/New Separation, Retirement and Pension System for the Military and Uniformed Personnel

8. Enterprise Based Education and Training (EBET) Program Act

9. Amendments to the Universal Health Care Act

Three of the priority measures—the E-Government/E-Governance Act, the Department of Water Resources Act and the Konektadong Pinoy Act—are all pending committee approval.

spokesperson Capt. Ariel Joseph Coloma said in an interview.

Coloma said the first PLAN vessel (bow number 793) spotted Saturday was no longer in the vicinity.

Filipino, American and French naval vessels conducted a search and rescue training with photo exercise Sunday.

The ships are the Philippine Navy’s offshore patrol vessel BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16) and landing dock BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602); USS Navy’s landing ship dock USS Harpers Ferry (LSD-49); and French Navy’s Floreal-class frigate FS Vendémiaire (FFH-734).

Coloma said they were not bothered by the presence of the uninvited ship as there was no provocation.

Pinoy inventor cited for fuel saving combustor

By Ben Cal

A FILIPINO inventor has received

an international award from the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) for his invention that eliminates emissions from all types of engines from vehicles to ships.

George de Guzman, the Filipino inventor, received the NRCT Bronze Prize Award and Certificate of Appreciation in February, but it was only over the weekend that this writer learned about the citation during an interview with the awardee.

De Guzman, a former basketball player turned inventor, called his invention “Power-Up Power Combustor” and said that it can eliminate emissions from vehicles, ships, and generators.

Dr. Wiparat De-ong, NRCT executive director, signed the Bronze Prize Award and Certificate of Appreciation awarded to De Guzman, citing the Filipino inventor for his“creative efforts to invent Power Up Fuel Combustor.”

I n an interview, De Guzman profusely thanked the NRCT for the award. De Guzman said he was not present to receive the award at the Bangkok International Intellectual Property, Invention, Innovation and Technology Exposition in Thailand in February, but he was represented by Ronald P. Pagsanghan, president of the Filipino Inventors Society.

De Guzman said his not only eliminates emissions but also saves fuel consumption by as much as 50 percent and gives more power to the engine.

“Another advantage of using ‘Power Up Combustor’ is that change oil is done after 30,000 kilometers,” De Guzman said.

“With gasoline prices going up every week, Power Up Combustor is the answer,” he stressed.

Solons eyeing probe on PBBM deepfake video

By Rio N. Araja

LEADERS of the House of Representatives are seeking an investigation into a deepfake video showing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. purportedly issuing an order to soldiers.

“This matter involves national security and the malicious dissemination of fabricated information,” senior deputy speaker and Pampanga Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr. said.

Concerned agencies, including the Department of Information and Communications Technology and its Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, must promptly conduct an inquiry, he stressed.

“We should not allow this to happen again. We should not tolerate criminally-minded persons to wreak havoc on our national security and to give our people fake information,” he said. Those responsible for the deepfake should be prosecuted, he added.

On the other hand, Quezon Rep. David Suarez, a deputy speaker, said investigating agencies should give Congress a periodic report on the progress of their probe, and that they could tap private sector experts to help ferret out the truth.

“It should not be difficult for them to identify the origin of the deepfake and those behind it. I suspect this bogus material originated from somewhere in the south of the country,” he said. He called on the recipients of the President’s directive not to listen to impostors and fabricators.

“I trust that they will heed instructions issued only through official lines of communication and from the chain of command. I believe in the professionalism and patriotism of our soldiers,” he noted.

Lawmakers appeal to Senate on natural gas legislation

MEMBERS of the House of Representatives are appealing to the Senate for swift action on proposed legislation that would lay down state policy for the full development of the Philippine natural gas industry.

Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda, author of House Bill 8456, or the proposed Philippine Downstream Natural Gas Industry (PDNGI) Development Act, said the measure is a legislative priority of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

“It is a LEDAC and SONA priority, so I hope the Senate acts on it and we enact it before the midterms,” said Salceda, chairman of the House committee on ways and means and a noted economist.

Salceda said the bill’s passage

IN BRIEF

SC maintains NTC decision on Next Mobile

THE Supreme Court (SC) has sustained the 2005 and 2008 orders of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) disqualifying Next Mobile Inc., currently operating as NOW Telecom, and three other companies in their application for a third-generation (3G) mobile communications technology.

In a decision written by Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, the SC’s Second Division denied the petitions challenging the NTC’s consolidated orders dated Dec. 28, 2005, and Aug. 28, 2008, regarding the disqualification of Next Mobile, and three other disqualified telcos, namely: then Lopez-owned Bayan Telecommunications (BayanTel), Multi-Media Telephony Inc. (MTI), and AZ Communications Inc.

T he NTC had already awarded four of five 3G frequency slots to Smart, Globe, Digitel, and Connectivity Unlimited Resources Enterprise or CURE.

Rey E. Requejo

DA says will desist from revamping moves

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) said it will desist from any significant revamp within its affiliated agencies after the Office of the Ombudsman removed several officials of the National Food Authority (NFA) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).

The Ombudsman in March 2024, suspended former NFA administrator Roderico Bioco and other officials for allegedly selling rice reserves at a loss.

This was followed by the dismissal of BFAR director Demosthenes Escoto in 2017 over a bidding irregularity. Escoto was dismissed over alleged “grave misconduct” in the bidding for the contract of vessel monitoring systems.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel assures these are isolated incidents. He downplays any impact of Escoto’s dismissal on the ongoing NFA rice investigation, expected to conclude soon.

Both agencies continue normal operations under acting heads: Larry Lacson for NFA and Isidro Velayo Jr. for BFAR.

was needed as natural gas produces 32 percent to 40 percent less emission than coal when used for power generation. However, the lawmaker stressed that legislation was needed to put in place a “full value chain with proper infrastructure.” He said the bill’s enactment into law would sharply reduce Philippine dependence on imported fuel.

Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco, chair of the House committee on energy and another author of the bill,

said the proposed legislation would promote the Philippines as a liquefied natural gas trading and transshipment hub in Asia-Pacific.

He lamented the lack of clear, comprehensive, and integrated policies on the natural gas industry which “is detrimental to the thrust of the Department of Energy (DOE) to attract foreign investors to our natural gas potentials or importation or transmission of the same.”

HB 8456 mandates the DOE to be the lead government agency in the proposed PDNGI.

The DOE’s role in the development of the Philippines’ natural gas industry will include supervision and monitoring of the proposed system.

It would also regulate the construc-

tion and operation of natural gas pipelines and other facilities for the transmission and supply of natural gas. It gives the Energy Regulatory Commission sole regulatory authority for setting rates and other terms covering natural gas supply.

At the Senate, Senator Raffy Tulfo filed Senate Bill 2247, which is now being reviewed by a technical working group.

SB 2247 would promote the development of a comprehensive and integrated legislative policy that aids in the rapid development of the Philippines’ natural gas sector.

Tulfo had said the bill would support the development of new wells in light of the depleting volume of gas from the Malampaya field.

ALTERNATIVE PRODUCT. Gerry Simbajon, a farmer, dries wheat flowers on the side of the highway in Palayan, Nueva Ecija. Due to El Nino, Simbajo’s farm dried up and he was compelled to make dyed wheat and sell it to flower shops for P10 per bunch. Danny Pata

San Miguel, Leyte townsfolk receive portable water purifiers

By Ronald O. Reyes

RESIDENTS of San Miguel, a fourth class town in Leyte province, are now assured of clean, drinkable water even in times of calamities, thanks to a donation of portable water purifier.

Manila

Aqua-Aid, an organization dedicated to addressing water purity issues, gave away a water filtration device using LifeStraw technology, plus training on crafting natural resource-based water filters “that will enhance the town’s capacity to meet water needs during emer-

Standard TODAYNOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

Subject: 5G Fixed Wireless Broadband Service. The mechanics are as follows:

1. Offer period: 20 March 2024 to 20 September 2024.

2. The 5G Fixed Wireless Broadband Service shall be activated within the applied period only.

3. The 5G Fixed Wireless Broadband Service details, pricing and inclusions are indicated below: Offer Name Plan InclusionsLock in Period MSF (PHP) Speed

5G AweSME 1088 600GB/month One (1) 5G/4G Modem Router One (1) Dito SIM

5G Unlimited 2088 Unlimited/month One (1) 5G/4G Modem Router One (1) Dito SIM

24 Months1088Up to 500+ Mbps

24 Months2088Up to 500+ Mbps

*Internet Service Speed: Up to 500+Mbps for the first 50GB per day, with minimum speed of 10Mbps data thereafter at 80% reliability. Internet speed will be refreshed at 12:00 midnight of the following day. Signal strength may affect connectivity.

4. The 5G Fixed Wireless Broadband Service shall be offered only in the areas where DITO’s services are available.

5. Only credit-approved business applicants shall be eligible to apply and subscribe.

o Interested customers may apply directly to DITO Relationship Managers or DITO Website: www.ditobusiness.ph.

o The list of requirements includes the following:

a. Latest incorporation or regulatory registration documents, such as Articles of Incorporation, General Information Sheet, Certificate of Tax Registration, Business Permit, or any of its equivalent;

b. Board Resolution or Corporate Secretary’s Certificate confirming the authority of the Business Representative to bind the Applicant;

c. Company ID of the Business Representative and a Government Issued ID.

6. The 5G Fixed Wireless Broadband Service shall only be used at the designated address in the subscriber’s approved application, which must be duly vetted by relationship managers to be within the coverage range of the DITO Network listed in Annex A.

7. Data usage may be monitored via the DITO App.

a. Download and log in to the DITO APP using the DITO Fixed Wireless Broadband Postpaid number.

b. Click “View Details” to check data usage and consumption.

c. For boosters, you may click “Buy Data Boosters” for additional data allocation.

Data AllocationValidity Price 20 GB 30 Days PhP 190.00

*Booster does not apply to Unlimited Plans.

8. Once subscribed to the 5G Fixed Wireless Broadband Service, monthly data allocation will be replenished based on the subscriber’s billing cycle, e.g. every 10th of the month. Below provides the billing cycle:

Activation

21st-30th/31st30th/31st1st – 31st 25th

1st-30th/31st30th/31st1st – 31st 25th

9. The first billing of the subscriber shall be prorated based on the below formula:

Monthly Service Fee (MSF) MSF x (Remaining days of the Proration Formula = month/Total Days in the current month)

If a Plan 1088 subscriber signed up on 16 July 2024, his bill shall be due on the 21st day of each month. The data consumption from 16 July 2024 to 20 July 2024 shall be added to his first monthly bill as follows: PhP 1,088.00 x (5/31) = P175.48. Therefore, an additional PhP 175.48 will be added to his bill on 21 August 2024 on top of the PhP 1,088.00 monthly service fee for 21 July 2024 to 24 August 2024.

10. DITO shall send the subscriber an Electronic Statement of Account (eSOA) free of charge through a valid and active email address provided by the subscriber during the application. The subscriber shall pay the entire amount billed on or before the due date specified. The subscriber’s failure or refusal to pay the fee, in whole or in part, shall entitle DITO to enforce all the rights against the subscriber to collect the service fee without any liability on the part of DITO. The consent of the subscriber shall be secured upon application pursuant to the e-billing policy and the user’s terms and conditions.

11. Should a subscriber be unable to finish the agreed contract duration, a pretermination fee based on DITO policy shall be imposed. Computation of the pre-termination fee shall be:

Pre-termination Fee (PTF) = MSF x remaining number of months based on the contract

12. Once the contract term ends, the subscriber may choose to voluntarily terminate the service without any penalty or continue to use the service at the same monthly rate.

13. 5G Fixed Wireless Broadband Service may be enjoyed by up to 30 devices.

14. By availing the 5G Fixed Wireless Broadband Service, the subscriber confirms that he has read, understood, and agreed to the mechanics, and subscription terms and conditions. Subscribers also agree not to use the services for any illicit or illegal purpose.

15. Once availed, the subscription shall be non-refundable, non-replaceable, and non-exchangeable. The subscription shall only be valid for the DITO modems with DITO Postpaid SIM card.

16. Subscription may not be converted to cash, credit, or other goods and services.

17. Any concern, information or query may be sent to ditobusiness.support@ dito.ph. All matters and disputes shall be subject to the final decision of DITO. With the prior concurrence of DTI, all decisions made by DITO pertaining to the subscription shall be deemed final and irrevocable.

gency situations.” San Miguel Mayor Norman Sabdao thanked Aqua Aid founder Achille Romualdez Pompidou for the donation.

“This device will greatly help the community, especially in times of calamity where water is one of the primary needs of the people,” said Pompidou, a nephew of Speaker Martin Romualdez.

In a statement, Pompidou recalled the sad experiences during the 2013 Super Typhoon Yolanda that leveled most of the Leyte towns, saying that the story “taught us valuable lessons on preparedness, resilience, and the power of community.”

“They showed us that, in the face of disaster, our survival depends not only on our strength and determination but

also on our access to essential resources like clean water,” he said.

“In the aftermath of such disasters, the risk of waterborne diseases becomes a significant concern, threatening the health and wellbeing of survivors. This is where the importance of water, combined with the innovation of water purification kits and LifeStraws, becomes evident,” Pompidou added.

Senator renews call on creation of Virology and Vaccine Institute

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian has renewed his call on the establishment of a Virology and Vaccine Institute to help boost vaccine development in the country amid continuing cases of pertussis or ‘whooping cough’ and other preventable diseases.

Gatchalian made the call during the observance of the World Immunization

Week from April 24 to 30.

He noted that the Department of Health (DOH) has recorded 1,477 cases of pertussis and 63 fatalities from January 1 to April 6. The DOH said children under five years old make up 76 percent of the recorded cases.

Under the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines (VIP) Act of 2022, the senator seeks initiatives to boost technology transfer, as well as create a premier research and development facility to develop vaccines for various types of viruses affecting humans, plants, and animals.

“If we have our own Virology and Vaccine Institute, we can address the need for an appropriate and timely research and supply of vaccines, like what we are expe-

riencing now with regards to the vaccines for pertussis,” Gatchalian said.

Gatchalian also recalled the country’s experience during the COVID 19 pandemic when the need to develop domestic vaccine production emerged.

While pertussis cases are rising steadily, the DOH previously flagged a looming shortage of pertussis vaccines by May.

However, the DOH was able to secure three million pertussis doses from the Serum Institute of India to ensure adequate supply of the vaccine in May and June.

Six million doses of pentavalent vaccines, which offer protection against pertussis, diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type B, are expected to arrive by July.

IN BRIEF

QC mayor bares winners of unique fashion show

QUEZON City Mayor Joy Belmonte has announced the winners of the first ever eco-fashion show dubbed “RETASHOW: Catwalk to Sustainability.”

Renegade Limpin of Barangay Paltok bested 19 other designers, who showcased their talents by creating fashionable clothes from recycled garments and leftover fabrics during the competition held in SM Novaliches. Limpin received a cash prize of P100,000.

NHA chief visits gov’t housing projects, makes sure construction is on schedule

By Rio N. Araja

NATIONAL Housing Authority (NHA) general manager Joeben Tai has vowed to continuously inspect the agency’s housing projects to assess the status of construction and determine if they would be completed on schedule.

“In line with our Build Better More Housing program, I assure you that the housing that will be built here will be affordable and quality with a progressive community that can be compared to private housing. We have also ensured that this project is close to major establishments such as town markets, public schools, hospi-

tals, churches and police stations,” Tai said.

Along with assistant general manager Alvin Feliciano and other NHA officials, Tai led the inspection of the Disiplina Village Arkong Bato in Valenzuela City, of which President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself led the ground-breaking ceremony last month.

The in-city resettlement is designed to generate 20 low-rise buildings with 960 housing units with 24 square-meter floor area each. It will accommodate the informal settler families living along danger areas in the city who were affected by a Supreme Court order to clean up the Manila Bay.

BANANA BOAT RIDE. A handful of group pleasure seekers enjoy a banana boat ride on the water of Pantabangan Dam in Nueva Ecija even as the reservoir indicated a decline of its water levels from the normal 221 meters to 173.40 meters amid intense heat brought about by the El Niño.

Danny Pata

House mourns passing of veteran solon

By Maricel V. Cruz

lawyer, Rep. Elpidio Barzaga, Jr of Dasmariñas City, Cavite.

Romualdez expressed his condolences to the loved ones and constituents of Barzaga who passed away in California on Saturday (Philippine time). He was 74.

“We are

“Thank you very much for taking your time and valuing the purpose of our RetaShow. As trailblazers of sustainable fashion, we hope that the city govvernment can always count on you to use your platforms for sustainability,” Belmonte said.

Maricris Pabelico of Barangay Sauyo placed second, and John Jade Montecalvo of Barangay Payatas won third.

They received cash prizes of P70,000 and P30,000 respectively.

The designers showcased ensembles that were made from at least 70 percent recycled cloths.

Their work was evaluated based on design and originality, ethics and sustainability, and wearability and feasibility.

At least 20 designers were picked from a pool of 50 applicants. Rio N. Araja

Muntinlupa wraps up month-long R-18 fest

THE month-long celebration of Muntinlupa’s Responsible-18 or R-18 concluded in an electrifying concert in Alabang with an estimated 16,000 crowd.

The stage came alive with performances from SUD, Nobita, Quest, Janine Teñoso, and The Juans.

Local talents also took center stage, as The Nomads, The Last Sonnet, and the BFP Panther Echo Band showcased their musical talents to an enthusiastic crowd. The winners of R-18 dance contest also performed at the concert.

“I myself consulted him on a number of legal issues. He was always lending a helping hand. We will also remember him as an indefatigable lawmaker who made it a point to attend sessions and participate actively in committee hearings with extensive preparations,” the Speaker said.

“Our prayers and thoughts go to Cong. Pidi’s family, especially his wife Mayor Jenny Barzaga, his sons and his constituents,” Romualdez added. Barzaga, who held several powerful committee chairmanships in the House, is survived by his wife, Dasmariñas City Mayor Jenny AustriaBarzaga, as well as his sons BM Kiko, Third, and Enzo.

whom many had called, “Cong. Pidi” as the person they could turn to for legal advice and for understanding the maze of numbers in the national budget, the Dasmariñas City lawmaker being a CPA- lawyer.

R-18 Month, a unique Muntinlupa tradition, draws inspiration from coming-of-age celebrations observed in other cultures such as Japan and Korea. Throughout the month-long festivities, Muntinlupa aims to guide and empower teenagers as they transition into responsible young adults, all the while savoring the privileges that accompany legal maturity.

Mayor Ruffy Biazon, alongside other city officials, led the Panata ng Kabataang Muntinlupeño, formally welcoming the youth into the realm of adulthood. The “Panata” outlines “Munteens” pledge to be responsible citizens.

Mayor Biazon also surprised the “MunTeens” as he graced the stage by joining The Juans in singing their hit song, “Pwede ba kitang ligawan.”

SMART PAY-OUT. The office of Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, along with Tingog party-list Reps. Yedda Marie Romualdez and Jude Acidre, and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) spearhead the distribution of the Student Monetary Assistance for Recovery and Transition (SMART) grant to 1,500 student-beneficiaries at the People’s Center in Tacloban City. The students received P25,000-cheque each as education subsidy.

ACCIONA’s innovative Health and Safety model

A FEW days before the Philippines celebrates Labor Day on May 1, The World Day for Safety and Health at Work is celebrated every April 28 to raise global awareness on the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases. This is towards the assimilation of a safety and health culture to help reduce the number of work-related injuries and death.

Led by the International Labor Organization, a tripartite United Nations agency, of governments, employers’ organizations, and workers’ organizations from 187 member States, this advocacy emphasizes the need to ensure that all work environments employ occupational safety and health practices for their workforce.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority’s pre-pandemic data from the Integrated Survey on Labor and Employment- Module on Occupational Injuries and Diseases conducted in 2019, a total 37,513 occupational accidents were reported in industries in the Philippines.

From the 38,305 surveyed that had 20 or more employees, approximately 10.9 percent (4,186) experienced a number of work-related accidents.

In terms of individual cases, these accidents resulted to 40,892 injuries which was a 1.9 percent decrease compared to 2017 data.

One percent of the cases were fatal while about 42.7 percent were non-fatal with lost workdays.

The majority of the injury cases (56.6 percent) only required first-aid or medical treatment and were able to return to work the next day.

By industry sector, manufacturing had the highest incidents of occupational injuries at 42.7 percent of the total cases. Next are workers doing administrative and support service activities at 11.1 percent and construction services at 9.5 percent.

The global shift towards automation and digital technologies is while confronting the planetary impact of climate change is changing the work environment with less physical rigors but pressures that pose new occupational risks involving psychosocial stress and noncommunicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and cancer.

In fitting response to this global celebration of the human workforce, ACCIONA, a global leader in sustainable infrastructure and renewable energy solutions, recently hosted the 2nd Health and Safety Day 2024 on April 18 in Taguig City.

More than 200 health and safety professionals from various public and private organizations gathered in symposia to share insights on advancing workplace safety practices and employing new innovations to address the impacts of climate change on occupational safety and health.

Most interesting was the presentation on ACCIONA’s new Smart Control Center and the Health and Safety Center which aims to revolutionize health and safety management by incorporating cutting-edge technologies.

Powered with artificial intelligence, the Smart Control Center enables realtime monitoring of the workplace and provides enterprise managers with data, predictive analysis and guidance for

more proactive risk management in their workplace environment.

Based on an intelligent prevention model, the Health and Safety Center can be managed remotely from virtually anywhere.

It monitors various parameters related to health and safety, including incidents, risks, and safety protocols. ACCIONA leverages the center’s technology to improve safety management across all its work centers.

In his keynote speech, ACCIONA Southeast Asia Infrastructure Managing Director Mr. Ruben Camba emphasized their commitment to sustaining a safe and healthy workplace driven by innovative initiatives like their AI powered Smart control Center which revolutionized risk prediction by enabling them to initiate preemptive interventions before incidents occur.

—“—

Workers and laborers in the construction industry doing outdoor work, a core business of ACCIONA, are particularly vulnerable to heat stroke

Among the issues tackled during the event were re the impacts of climate change and most relevant are the successive days of dangerously high heat index sweeping the country reaching 42 to 47 degrees Celsius.

Schools have been disrupted forcing classes to be suspended, adjustments in schedules, and resorting back to online/ asynchronous mode.

Deaths from heat stroke have also been reported. Workers and laborers in the construction industry doing outdoor work, a core business of ACCIONA, are particularly vulnerable.

The experts pointed out other factors that are stress-related such as lack of sleep directly affect the performance of employees which will eventually reflect on a company’s productivity.

In addition to prioritizing compensation for accidents, the participants recognized the need to focus on policy formulation to address safety concerns. Equally crucial are programs in capacity building, training, and research to enhance safety measures.

The participants agreed that to overcome the challenges that companies encounter to implement safety standards, investment and commitment to sustain safety and health programs and engaging relevant stakeholders is crucial.

The Department of Labor represented by Engr. Jose Maria Batino likewise acknowledged the “need to integrate resiliency in occupational safety and health programs.”

The good wellbeing of all employees of any enterprise, regardless of size and sector, is a foundational requisite for achieving business objectives which will then collectively impact the local and national socio-economic dynamics of the country.

A READER who signed as Pabs Quiba commented on our April 25 article “No quick fixes” -- “You had your chance, did you do anything? If not, shut up.”

Very briefly: In the 27 months that I helmed the NFA during the PNoy presidency, there was no shortage or sudden upsurge in rice prices, despite a strong typhoon that hit Central Luzon in 2011. I inherited a P178 billion debt from the previous administration; I cut that down to P143 billion, even as I reduced government importation from 2.25 million metric tons in 2009 to a mere 200,000 in 2010 and then 160,000 the following year. Farmers did not lose their shirts when we were buying at P17 per kilo, while maintaining NFA retail prices at P27, and the commercial (private) sector was selling at between P32 and 36 per kilo.

As assigned leader of the negotiating team with the WTO, we were able to delay the lifting of quantitative restrictions on rice importation which actually expired in 2012, but took effect only when

Vice presidents

the Rice Tarrification Law was passed in 2018.

By the way, NFA has nothing to do with rice production from the time of its inception. That is and was the mandate of the Department of Agriculture with its many agencies.

***

The recent brouhaha over the First Lady’s statements of dislike for the vice president, followed by the latter’s cool but pointed response, and then the president’s balancing act thereafter, brings to mind memories of previous vice presidencies of our country. The popular Ramon Magsaysay of Luzon died in a plane crash, and was succeeded by vice president Carlos P. Garcia of Bohol.

Both belonged to the Nacionalista Party. During the Commonwealth, it was Quezon and Osmena, both NP’s, then Manuel A. Roxas and Elpidio Quirino, both LPs, with the latter succeeding to the presidency after Roxas died of a stroke.

Motorcycle lane on EDSA

SHOULD the motorcycle lane on EDSA be restored?

Yes, to keep motorcycle riders disciplined and compel them to stay on one lane so they don’t expose themselves to unnecessary danger weaving in an out of other lanes or competing with previous road space with fourwheeled and other vehicles running at faster speed.

The Department of Transportation and the Metro Manila Development Authority are studying the viability of adding a motorcycle lane to alleviate the traffic problem along EDSA.

This is the second time a dedicated motorcycle lane would be set up along the wide roadway that cuts across several cities in Metro Manila.

But this initial experiment that allowed other vehicles to occupy the motorcycle lane did not last long and eventually scrapped as it did not achieve its goal of keeping EDSA traffic flowing smoothly.

Traffic studies indicate that around 170,000 motorcycles use EDSA daily.

This number has increased exponentially with the lack of adequate mass transportation in the city and the

popularity of online selling platforms using motorcycles as main delivery vehicles.

Several senators have expressed misgivings over the proposed move of the DOTr to revive the motorcycle lane along EDSA, saying this is bandaid solution to the longstanding traffic congestion along the stretch of EDSA. But we think this is a necessary step to bring order to EDSA traffic while the national government considers other mass transport options, including rail.

—“—

Several senators have expressed misgivings over the proposed move of the DOTr to revive the motorcycle lane along EDSA

At present, the six-lane EDSA is fully occupied: the innermost lane is for the EDSA Carousel Busway, while the rightmost lane is reserved for bicycles. That leaves four lanes for motor-

VIC Rodriguez’s recent call for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to undergo a “credible hair follicle drug test” is not only ludicrous but reeks of desperation and political sabotage.

Rodriguez, a disgraced former executive secretary who was unceremoniously ousted from the Marcos administration amidst allegations of corruption and abuses, is now shamelessly engaging in sour grapes politics by aligning himself with the opposition and launching baseless attacks against the administration.

Rodriguez’s thinly veiled attempt to tarnish President Marcos’s reputation with unsubstantiated accusations of illegal drug use is not only a disgrace to the journalistic profession but also a blatant affront to the democratic principles upon which our society is built. His malicious insinuations serve no purpose other than to sow discord and confusion among the Filipino people.

It is utterly preposterous for Rodriguez to demand a drug test from President Marcos based on nothing more than hearsay and speculation.

President Marcos has repeatedly stated his commitment to serving the Filipino people with integrity and honor, and his track record speaks for itself. Under his leadership, the nation has seen significant strides in economic development, infrastructure improvement, and social welfare programs.

Incumbent Garcia won his first election as president in 1957, but the vicepresident came from another party – Diosdado P. Macapagal. Garcia did not give his vice president any Cabinet position, so Macapagal spent his four-year term visiting every inhabited island of the country.

He won over Garcia in 1961, along with his vice president, Emmanuel Pelaez, also from the Liberal Party at the time.

But Macapagal and Pelaez had a parting of ways in less than two years, so Pelaez of Mindanao switched to the Nacionalista side. Later, Ferdinand Marcos Sr. broke away from the LP when Macapagal decided to go for a second term.

—“—

NFA has nothing to do with rice production from the time of its inception. That is and was the mandate of the Department of Agriculture with its many agencies

In the Nacionalista convention of 1965, he defeated Pelaez, Fernando Lopez, Gil Puyat and Dominador Aytona, and prevailed upon the Ilonggo Lopez to run as his team mate. They both won.

cycles, cars, vans and other vehicles.

The DOTr wants the lane beside that currently occupied by bicycles to be allotted to motorcycles.

Will this work? Frankly, we don’t know.

Motorcycle delivery riders pressed for time in beating deadlines and meeting quotas for the day are likely to go outside the dedicated lane and occupy the other three lanes.

Unless, of course, they are accosted by MMDA traffic enforcers and made to pay hefty fines or having their units impounded.

It’s a choice between having existing traffic congestion in Metro Manila go on and on with the attendant economic cost, which a 2012 study by the Japan International Cooperation Agency showed at P2.4 billion a day.

In 2017, the economic cost reached P3.5 billion a day, while the latest study in 2022 indicated the economic losses from traffic is P4.9 billion a day. JICA projected this to balloon to P9 billion a day in 2030.

Given this, the government appears inclined to favor the dedicated motorcycle lane with strict traffic enforcement as among the options on the table.

It’s worth a try, from where we sit.

Desperate deceptions: Vic Rodriguez’s shameful political ploys

Furthermore, Rodriguez’s attempt to draw parallels between President Marcos and former President Rodrigo Duterte’s baseless accusations of drug use is not only absurd but also malicious. President Marcos has categorically denied any involvement in illegal drug activities, and there is no credible evidence to suggest otherwise.

—“—

Rodriguez’s attempt to draw parallels between President Marcos and former President Rodrigo Duterte’s baseless accusations of drug use is not only absurd but also malicious

By attempting to revive discredited allegations, Rodriguez exposes himself as a desperate political operative willing to stoop to any level to undermine the duly elected government.

It is evident that Rodriguez’s call for drug testing is nothing more than a cheap

Marcos was re-elected in 1969, defeating Sergio Osmena Jr., but in September 1972, he placed the country under martial law, and ruled as dictator from then until the EDSA uprising forced him out in February 1986.

(Editor’s Note: Martial law, imposed in September 1972, was lifted in January 1981. In June that year, Marcos of the Kilusang Bagong Lipunan defeated World War II veteran Alejo Santos of the Nacionalista Party.

(Although Marcos’ term was for six years from June 1981, he called for a snap election in February 1986 against Corazon Aquino.)

Cory Aquino rose to the presidency in February 1986, along with Salvador H. Laurel under the UNIDO banner, but after a series of political and personal conflicts, the latter, who was concurrently Foreign Affairs secretary, broke off in less than two years.

Laurel ran but lost against Cory’s chosen successor, Fidel V. Ramos in 1992 in a field of seven candidates that included Ramon Mitra, Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Jovito Salonga, Danding Cojuangco and Imelda R. Marcos. Ramos won by a hairline margin over Miriam, while Danding’s teammate, Joseph Estrada, won the vice presidency, and in 1998, captured the presidency overwhelmingly.

Yet Estrada was the victim of a veritable coup through EDSA Dos, after being impeached by the House and while pending trial in the Senate. His vice president, Gloria Macapagal

political stunt aimed at diverting attention from his own sordid past and tarnishing the reputation of a duly elected leader. His actions are not only reprehensible but also betray a fundamental lack of respect for the democratic process and the rule of law.

President Marcos has shown time and again his unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of governance and accountability.

His administration has made significant strides in combating corruption, promoting economic growth, and improving the lives of millions of Filipinos across the country.

Instead of engaging in petty political gamesmanship, Rodriguez would do well to reflect on his own shortcomings and seek redemption through genuine acts of service to the Filipino people.

Vic Rodriguez’s baseless accusations against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. are nothing more than a desperate attempt to regain relevance in the political arena.

His call for a drug test is a shameful display of political opportunism and should be condemned in the strongest possible terms.

President Marcos has proven himself to be a capable and dedicated leader, and his administration deserves the full support of the Filipino people as they work together to build a brighter future for our nation.

Arroyo, succeeded him on Jan. 23, 2001 and won a controversial election in 2004 where charges of manipulation through Hello Garci almost overthrew her. She reigned until June 30, 2010, the second longest presidency in our history after Marcos Sr.

Benigno S. Aquino III won another overwhelming victory though still a plurality in 2010, but was unable to carry his teammate, while then Mayor Jojo Binay of Makati won as vice-president.

PNoy finished his six-year term, handling over the presidency in 2016 to the first president from Mindanao, Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, while a vice president from an opposing party, Leni Robredo, won by a thin margin over Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

But in 2022, Marcos Jr. won with a huge majority over Robredo and several others.

His chosen vice president, Inday Sara Duterte, daughter of the then incumbent president, won even more overwhelmingly, in a UniTeam where the “solid” North and the “solid” South were forged.

It was a political marriage of convenience, with no principles or ideology discussed, only the arithmetic of victory.

In the antecedent case of Cory and Doy in 1986, defeating an entrenched dictatorship and ushering in democratic rule prevailed over personal considerations.

After the UniTeam’s historic win, everybody hoped that, at last, the over-arching message of unity for progress would finally be achieved in the long-benighted land. (To be continued)

At WH dinner, Biden takes Trump to task

WASHINGTON, DC – President Joe Biden poked fun at himself but

took sharp aim at his election rival Donald Trump Saturday at the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, as protesters outside demonstrated against the conflict in Gaza

A long list of VIP guests, including journalists and celebrities

from Chris Pine to Molly Ringwald, arrived in black-tie attire as more than 100 protesters confronted attendees in front of the Washington Hilton hotel chanting “shame on you” and other slogans.

Inside, the topic of Gaza was far from the lips of Biden and the evening’s comedian, Colin Jost of “Saturday Night Live,” who roasted Biden for his age and occasional stumble on the Airforce One stairs.

“I would like to point out it’s after 10:00 pm, Sleepy Joe is still awake,

while Donald Trump has spent the past week falling asleep in court every morning,” Jost joked, referring to the former president’s appearances at his New York hush money trial last week.

Amid some self-mockery and ribbing of the press, the 81-year-old president took sharp-elbowed jabs at his 77-year-old presumptive November election rival, quipping that “age is the only thing we have in common. My vice president actually endorsed me.”

Both Jost and Biden struck a more serious tone in addressing what many

Gaza to dominate Saudi-hosted global economy meet

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – The war in Gaza and broader Middle East tensions are expected to get top billing at a Saudi-hosted special meeting of the World Economic Forum that begins on Sunday.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Palestinian leaders and high-ranking officials from other countries trying to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas are on the guest list for the summit in Riyadh, capital of the world’s biggest crude oil exporter.

“The world is today walking a tightrope right now, trying to balance security and prosperity,” Saudi planning minister Faisal al-Ibrahim told a press conference on Saturday previewing the event.

“We meet at a moment when one misjudgement or one miscalculation or one miscommunication will further exacerbate our challenges.”

Gaza’s war began with Hamas’s unprecedented Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel, which resulted in the deaths of about 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.

Israel estimates that 129 hostages seized by militants on Oct. 7 are still being held in Gaza, including 34 the military says are dead.

Vowing to destroy Hamas, Israel’s retaliatory offensive has killed at least 34,388 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry.

Borge Brende, president of the World Economic Forum, told Saturday’s press conference there was “some new momentum now in the talks around the hostages, and also for... a possible way out of the impasse we are faced with in Gaza”.

However there will be no Israeli participation at the summit and Brende noted that formal mediation involving Qatar and Egypt was unfolding elsewhere.

“This is more an opportunity to have structured discussions” with “the key players”, he said.

“There will be discussions, of course, on the ongoing humanitarian situation in Gaza” as well as on Iran, which backs Hamas and Lebanon’s Hezbollah group, he added.

The gathering “has all the prospects for becoming a very consequential meeting.”

The US State Department said that Blinken will “discuss ongoing efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza that secures the release of hostages and how it is Hamas that is standing between the Palestinian people and a ceasefire”.

Americans feel is a politically fraught moment, with Biden telling attendees Trump’s rhetoric was a danger particularly after the January 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol, and that “the stakes couldn’t be higher.”

Comedian Jost, a longtime writer and actor with NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” who is married to actress Scarlett Johansson, also in attendance, recalled fondly that his recently deceased grandfather had voted for Biden “because you are a decent man.” AFP

IN BRIEF

Russia strikes Ukrainian energy sites

KYIV – Russia launched a massive missile strike at Ukraine overnight, damaging four power plants in the latest barrage targeting the country’s energy supply, officials in Kyiv said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on Kyiv’s Western partners to supply more air defense systems to protect his country’s skies, as the air force said it had shot down 21 of 34 incoming missiles.

Moscow has launched some of its biggest ever strikes on Ukraine’s energy facilities in recent months. They have knocked out a significant chunk of production, triggering blackouts and energy rationing across the country. Ukraine also said it hit two oil refineries and a military air base in southern Russia in its own wave of overnight drone attacks.

“Thirty-four Russian missiles overnight,” Zelensky said in a post on Telegram.

“We managed to shoot down some of them. But the world has every opportunity to help (us) shoot down every missile and every drone.”

Pope meets women prisoners in Venice

VENICE, Italy – Pope Francis on Sunday visited a prison for women in Venice ahead of a mass in the watery city representing the 87-year-old pontiff’s first trip outside Rome for seven months.

The one-day trip to Venice will be closely watched amid concerns over the fragile health of Francis, who has toured the world extensively in his 11 years as pope but has not traveled since visiting the French city of Marseille in September.

Arriving by helicopter at 8:00am local time to the courtyard of the women’s prison on the island of Giudecca, the pope greeted one by one the approximately 80 inmates, staff and volunteers.

The pope, who throughout his papacy has spoken up in defence of prisoners and the marginalized, encouraged the women to reconstruct their lives “brick upon brick, together, with determination” during their time behind bars. AFP

Volcano erupts in eastern Indonesia, spews ash tower

JAKARTA – A volcano in eastern Indonesia erupted on Sunday morning, spewing an ash tower more than two miles into the sky and prompting officials to warn people to keep away.

Mount Ibu, on the island of Halmahera in North Maluku province, erupted at 12:37 am and sent a thick column of dark smoke and ash west of the peak.

The eruption lasted more than three minutes and the ash towered 3.5 kilometers above the peak, an official at Mount Ibu’s monitoring post, Axl Roeroe, said in a statement on Sunday.

“To residents and tourists near Mount Ibu, please do not conduct any activity within a two-kilometre radius (of the crater),” he said.

The alert level for the 1,325-meter volcano remained at a two on the four-tiered system and there was no evacuation order after the eruption.

But authorities urged people to wear face masks and glasses when doing outdoor activities and to anticipate falling volcanic ash.

Indonesia, a vast archipelago nation, experiences frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to its position on the Pacific “Ring of Fire.”

Earlier this month, Mount Ruang in North Sulawesi erupted, forcing thousands of people to evacuate.

The Sam Ratulangi International Airport in the city of Manado, located more than 100 kilometers from the crater, was also shut for days.

Earlier, the country’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency reported a magnitude-6.5 earthquake struck off the coast of Indonesia’s Java island on Saturday,

The quake, which the United States Geological Survey recorded at a magnitude of 6.1, was felt in capital Jakarta -- where people were forced to evacuate buildings -- and in nearby Bandung.

“I screamed to my wife and kids to tell them to get out of the house,” Iman Krisnawan, a 47-year-old resident of Bandung, told AFP.

“Usually, earthquakes lasted about 5 seconds, this one lasted between 10-15 seconds.”

There was no tsunami alert, according to BMKG. The USGS reported the depth at 68.3 kilometres (42 miles).

Indonesia, a vast archipelago nation, experiences frequent earthquakes due to its position on the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, an arc of intense seismic activity where tectonic plates collide that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin. AFP

Tony Estanguet carries the Olympic flame on board French 19th-century three-masted

Nueva Ecija subdues Mindoro

Interest in Olympic hosting ‘high’, says IOC boss Bach

LAUSANNE, Switzerland—Despite threats from climate change, AI-enhanced doping or competition from e-sports, the boss of the International Olympic Committee believes the future has never looked so bright for his sports movement.

Thomas Bach, a 70-year-old German fencer, has run the Switzerland-based guardian of the Olympic Games since 2013 when interest in hosting the event was near rock-bottom after repeated scandals over costs and corruption. Its diminished appeal was clear at the time of bidding for the 2024 and 2028 Summer Olympics when there were only two candidates, Paris and Los Angeles, who divided the honours between themselves.

Since then, the 2032 Games have been awarded to Brisbane, Australia, and Bach told AFP in an interview at IOC headquarters on Friday that there

were “double-digit” numbers of countries in the running for 2036.

“We have never been in such a favourable position. We have never seen such a high interest in hosting the Olympic Games,” he said on Friday from his offices that overlook Lake Geneva.

After a string of Games in Western democracies, 2036 could be an opportunity for Saudi Arabia, sole candidate for the 2032 FIFA World Cup; Qatar, a losing candidate for 2032; Indonesia, or India.

“We are now 12 years away from these Games, so it is way too early to

comment on any of these interests,”

Bach replied when asked about Saudi Arabia and Qatar, whose human rights records would make them contested destinations.

New model Olympics

Bach attributes the revival of interest in hosting the Olympics to reforms undertaken on his watch, which have sought to put an end to the wasteful spending that has near-bankrupted several host cities in the past.

Instead of oversized and gleaming new stadiums and facilities that often fall empty afterwards, the IOC now encourages the use of existing or temporary infrastructure.

An estimated 96 percent of the sport during Paris 2024, which begins on July 26, will take place in existing or temporary locations, while LA 2028 might reach 100 percent.

“Paris is the first Olympic Games

which is absolutely in line with our Olympic agenda reforms from start to finish,” Bach added.

As a result, French organisers claim that their event will be responsible for around half the carbon emissions of previous editions in London 2012 and Rio in 2016.

Critics, such as environmental research group Carbon Market Watch, commend the efforts to improve, but remain sceptical that the Games can ever be sustainable.

“The most significant factor affecting the games’ environmental footprint is its enormity,” a report from the group stated in mid-April.

AI-enhanced

Bach acknowledges that global heating is an increasing challenge, above all for the snow-dependent Winter Games but also the much larger Summer version. AFP

Cebuanos rule 42-km race; nationals dominant in 21-km

By Peter Atencio

TWO Cebuanos, Florendo Lapiz and Lizanne Abella, claimed the men’s and women’s crowns of the 42-km events on Sunday in the Manila Leg of the 2024 National MILO Marathon’s 60th anniversary race, which started and ended under warm night-time conditions at the Seaside Drive of the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

Both found the routes to their titles easier in the absence of the national team members in the 42-km field, as Lapiz, who is from Carcar, took the men’s honors in two hours, 42 minutes and 33 seconds, and the Minglanilla-based Abella ruled the women’s side in 3:21.05.

Lapiz was unopposed as closest pursuer Salvador Pollilo checked in at 2:49.54, more than seven minutes behind, before he was brought out of the race area in a wheelchair, after succumbing to cramps on his left leg.

Welfred Eporma was third in 2:58.51.

“Sa ganoong pace ko, walang sumabay kaya nauna na lang ako,” said the

33-year-old Lapiz, a welder, after he snared his first-ever podium finish with Abella, and made it to the national finals later this year in Cagayan de Oro City.

Abella, who almost gave in to the warm weather midway in the race, reached the finish in 3:21.05, more than five minutes in front of Maricar Camacho, who was behind in 3:26.19.

Lapiz’s dominance in the men’s division came after national team members Richard Salano and Arbois were disallowed by their coach from competing in the 42-km event. They decided to join the 21-km run instead and came up with a 1-2 finish.

Salano took the gold in 1:08.38, while Arbois was second in 1:10.24.

Jose Fabito was a far third in 1:21.10.

“Hindi ako gaano nag-focus sa mga long run. Pinaghahandaan ko ang Philippine Open, kasi more on speed ako,” said Salano, who was told by his coach Eduardo Buenavista that he and Arbois must avoid going into long-distance races, since they will compete in the 10,000- and 5000-meter events of the Philippine Open.

Technological University of the PH hosts 3rd APUG-PUBL Championship

By Graham C. Lim

TECHNOLOGICAL University of the Philippines (TUP)-Manila will host the men’s basketball event in the 3rd Asia Pacific University Games (APUG) -Philippine University Basketball League (PUBL) Championship from May 6 to 10, 2024 under the auspices of the Federation of School Sports Association of the Philippines (FESSAP) and the Asia Pacific University Sports Union (APUSU).

The games are held in partnership with various associations, universities, and corporate sponsorships, according to FESSAP president and currently the APUSU president, Edwin C. Fabro.

The APUG is a multi-sports competition organized by the APUSU, under the supervision of the Malaysia Ministry of Youth & Sports (KBS) Industry Department, led by Prof. Mustaza

SU counterpart Fabro. Also present is FESSAP Executive Vice President Robert Milton Calo.

Maria Cecilia Sarmiento is the Chief Secretary-Finance Officer with Allan Soria, FESSAP-TUP Executive Assistant, is the overall caretaker of the event as the host.

The regular member schools in the Philippines recognized by the APUSU include the following: TUP (2023), the University of Cebu (2016), Philippine College Foundation (2016), the University of San Jose Recoletos (2017), Mapua University (2019), the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA (2023) and De La Salle University- Dasmarinas (2023).

The men’s basketball event in the PAGCOR – 3rd APUG shall be held in conjunction with the Philippine Airlines – 4th PUBL (Philippine University Basketball League) known as the 3rd APUG-PUBL Men’s Basketball Championship.

NUEVA Ecija flashed its fiery form while Abra and Pangasinan gained traction in the MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) Sixth Season on Saturday at the Calasiao Sports Complex in Pangasinan.

The Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards subdued the Mindoro Tamaraws, 79-68, in the opener for their second straight win that revved up their drive toward regaining the 2022 national title.

The Abra Weavers recovered from a flat start to trounce the Negros Muscovados, 69-57, in the second game and boost their record to 3-2 in the roundrobin elimination phase of the 29-team tournament.

Propped up by the big hometown crowd, the Pangasinan Heatwaves torched the Marikina Shoemasters, 8068, in the nightcap to raise their record to 2-3.

Powered by Rob Celiz, JP Maguilano and Jay Collado, Nueva Ecija took control at 53-37 and was never headed.

Celiz finished with 16 points and 5 rebounds to earn best player honors. Maguilano posted 11 points plus 5 rebounds and Collado tallied 10 points plus 3 rebounds for Nueva Ecija, now being coached by Don Dulay.

Davison is PVL’s Player of the Week

IT WAS a bittersweet ending to the PVL All-Filipino Conference for PLDT’s Savi Davison, as she and the High Speed Hitters shocked perennial powerhouse Creamline in four sets to end their campaign on a high Thursday night. Davison uncorked 27 points in the breakthrough victory to help PLDT to their first-ever franchise win over the Cool Smashers, 22-25, 25-22, 25-14, 27-25 at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

Savi Davison

The Fil-Canadian hitter’s scoring output, built on 25 attacks, one block, and an ace, earns her a second PVL Press Corps Player of the Week presented by Pilipinas Live citation.

Davison was the unanimous choice for the plum for the period of April 23 to 27, taking all of the 16 votes from the print and online scribes covering the league organized by Sports Vision.

The wing spiker showed out in the non-bearing game, after the High Speed Hitters were officially knocked out of the semis race earlier that game day, with the Chery Tiggo Crossovers sealing their place in the next round with the win over the Galeries Tower Highrisers.

Even with their conference ending before their final match, Davison was adamant about giving their best against one of the PVL’s top teams.

“Like Kath (Arado) said, we just had to give it our all since there’s nothing that we could lose.” Davison said.

French President of the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics Organising Committee (Cojo)

barque Belem to begin its journey to France at the Piraeus port, near Athens, a day after Greece handed over the torch of the 2024 Games to Paris organizers. AFP

Abra’s Wendelino Comboy

PLDT’s

Cebuano 42-km champs Florendo Lapiz (center) and Lizanne Abella (right) with MILO sports chief Carlo Sampan (left)

FESSAP and APUSU president Edwin C. Fabro (center) with proponents of the tournament.

Editor

Asst. Editor

HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Bolts force Hotshots to franchise low 51 points

THE Meralco Bolts, led by Chris Newsome and Raymund Almazan, demolished the undermanned Magnolia Timplados Hotshots, 74-51, on Sunday for their second straight win in the 48th Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

Newsome and Almazan tallied 12 points apiece for the Bolts, who improved their win-loss record to 5-5.

Chris Banchero added 11 points for the Bolts, who kept their quarterfinal hopes intact, as they now share the no. 6 position with Rain or Shine, and Terrafirma Dyip.

The absence of injured players Jio Jalalon and Calvin Abueva, both nursing knee injuries took, showed its effects on the Hotshots right from the start.

Newsome shot six points in the first period, as the Bolts quickly took charge, 21-14.

After limiting the Hotshots to seven points in the second period, the Bolts went on to take control of their game with their 35-21 halftime lead.

“It was a bit of two things. In the first half, 21 points lang sila. And we played good defense,” said Bolts’ coach Luigi Trillo.

With setback, the Magnolia’s point production of 51 became their lowest in franchise history.

The Bolts’ defense also limited James Laput, Aries Dionisio and Paul Lee to six points each. Peter Atencio

Fil-Am Hoffman, Espenilla set new PH records

By Peter Atencio

FIL-AMERICAN standout Lauren Hoffman and Bicol bet Ana Bhianca Espenilla set ew Philippine records while competing in different meets over the weekend.

The 25-year-old Hoffman surpassed the Philippine record set by Robyn Brown in 2022 for the second time this year, when she finished the women’s 400-meter hurdles invitationals in 55.72 seconds on Saturday (Sunday in Manila) at the 114th Drake Relays in De Moines, Iowa.

Hoffman, who is due to compete in the ICTSI-Philippine Athletics Championships in the second week of May, settled for second place behind American Deshae Wise, who took the gold in 55.52 seconds. Jessica Wright landed third in 55.78 seconds.

“Another great meet in the books! New national record of 55.72. One step closer to achieving my goals this year!” said Hoffman in a statement on social media.

Meanwhile, Espenilla made her presence felt in the 21st Asian Under-20 Athletics Championship ins Dubai.

The 17-year-old Espenilla breached a five-year old national junior mark in the women’s javelin throw with her heave of 47 meters, erasing Ann Katherine Quitoy’s 44.71-meter feat in the 2019 Ayala-Philippine Athletics Championship.

Espenilla went past her personal best of 46.41 meters she did during the 2023 Batang Pinoy last December.

This earned Espenilla sixth place, behind Chiu Pin Hsun, who took the gold medal in 52.21 meters, while Tai Yu Chin, also of Taipei, landed second with 52.01 meters.

It was the second time for Hoffman to go below Brown’s record of 56.44 seconds, done when the latter bagged the bronze medal during the 2022 Southeast Asian Games.

The first time Hoffman did it was when she clocked 56.39 seconds for the gold in the Hurricane Collegiate Invitationals last March 23 in Coral Gables, Florida.

Fencer Catantan nails gold in UAE meet, gets Paris berth

By Peter Atencio

SAMANTHA

Catantan endured a close encounter with Kazakhstan’s Sofiya Akatyeva, 15-14, and earned qualification in the Paris Olympics despite her setbacks on Saturday evening.

Catantan, who still needs to finish the process of rehabilitation from a knee injury that she suffered last year, nailed the final point for the gold medal when she lunged at Aktayeva in the women’s foil finals during the AsiaOceania Zonal Olympic Qualifier on in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates.

The 22-year-old Catantan’s qualification is the first time for the Philippines in 32 years since Walter Torres made it to the Olympic Games in 1992.

“Masaya po. In-enjoy ko lang buong tournament. It’s so surreal, na hindi pa po nagsi-sink in,” said Catantan in an interview with Manila Standard after she got past the much taller Akatyeva.

“This is a dream come true. I worked hard all these years just to be here and get this,” said Catantan, who broke down in tears after overcoming her last rival.

Catantan, a student-athlete at Penn State University, rallied from 9-12 down, and forced a 12-all deadlock. She lost momentum when she felt a muscle give way in her left knee as she sought a medical timeout at 12-all, allowing her rival to grab the upperhand again, 14-12.

“Nagdasal ako. Nahabol niya. Hindi na siya bumitaw,” said Catantan’s coach Amatov Canlas, who made appeals for the jury on fair officiating of the finals match.

Catantan reached the finals following a 15-3 triumph over Korean Sena Hong in the semifinals of the main draw.

Earlier, Catantan fought Israa Al Siyabi, 15-4 in the quarterfinals, after drawing a bye in the Round of 16.

“Sabi ni coach, mag-focus lang ako. Alam niya iyung dinaanan kong hirap, at iyung consistency ko na makabalik ako this year, despite the injury,” added Catantan.

Catantan, who settled the silver medal in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games, after suffering a knee injury during the semis, still needs to get a final clearance from doctors on her knee, which went under the knife many months ago.

She became the 12th Filipino athlete to make it to the Paris Olympics this month, following the qualification of rowing of Joanie Delgaco and artistic gymnastics standout Levi Jung-Ruivivar.

Already in Team Philippines are pole vaulter EJ Obiena; artistic gymnasts Carlos Yulo and Alleah Finnegan; boxers Eumir Marcial, Nesthy Petecio, and Aira Villegas; and weightlifters John Ceniza, Elreen Ando and Vanessa Sarno.

Tolentino: Catantan conquered all odds

TALK about conquering tough odds and Samantha Kyle Catantan outperformed even herself, Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino said of the fencer who became the 12th Filipino athlete to officially qualify for the Paris Olympics.

“Samantha Catantan rose beyond adversity and proved herself deserving of an Olympic spot,” Tolentino said on Sunday just hours after Catantan earned her ticket to Paris by winning the women’s foil gold medal at the Asia-Oceania Olympic Qualification Tournament in Fujairah, the United Arab Emirates.

“She really fought for it to the end and I’m really happy to see her success just like the other Paris-bound Filipino athletes before her,” Tolentino added.

Canossa,

Catantan had no other choice but win the gold medal for her to qualify for Paris—she did that with drama.

The 22-year-old Catantan, an Olympic Solidarity scholar through the POC, overcame a two-point deficit to beat Kazakhstan’s Sofia Actayeva, 15-14, in the gold medal play of the final qualifying tournament for Olympic fencing at the Zayed Sports Complex. What made her feat more remarkable was that Cantantan became the first Filipino fencer to qualify for the Olympics since Walter Torres, now a commissioner of the Philippine Sports Commission, competed in Barcelona 1992.

“She really worked hard to put the Philippines back on the world fencing map after 32 years and we’re very proud of her,” said Tolentino, add-

ing Catantan will join the other Filipino Olympians at the Metz training camp in France a month ahead of the Games.

Catantan joined pole vaulter EJ Obiena, boxers Eumir Felix Marcial, Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas, gymnasts Carlos Yulo, Aleah Finnegan and Levi Jung-Ruivivar, weightlifters Vanessa Sarno, Elreen Ann Ando and John Febuar Ceniza and rower Joanie Delgaco on Team Philippines to the Olympics set from July 26 to August 11.

Catantan beat Oman’s Israa Al Siyabi, 15-4, in the quarterfinal and supset top seed Sena Hong of South Korea in semifinal, 15-3.

Two other Filipinos—Nathaniel Perez (men’s foil) and Hanniel Abella (women’s epee)—also targeted tickets to Paris later Sunday.

CANOSSA Academy (Lipa City) needed four sets while Kings’ Montessori won in three frames to claim the boys and girls bronze medals, respectively, in the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Under-18 Championships on Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Canossa Academy staved off Angatleta Orion (Bataan), 25-16, 25-23, 21-25, 25-20, and Kings’ Montessori b eat De La Salle-Lipa, 25-19, 25-18, 2514, to make the podium of the championships organized by the PNVF headed by Ramon “Tats” Suzara.

Kings’ Montessori had a contrasting result on the other hand, crushing De La Salle-Lipa, 25-19, 25-18, 25-14, to capture the girls’ bronze medal behind the hard-hitting performances of Kriska Gindap and Paula Palma played key roles for Kings’ Montessori

which disposed of their opponents in only 87 minutes.

In Saturday’s classification matches, De La Salle-Lipa bagged fifth place after a 25-20, 26-24, 13-25, 25-20 win over Hermosa Volleyball Club while Philippine Christian University defeated Taytay, 25-21, 27-25, 25-23, to finish in seventh spot.

De La Salle-Zobel, on the other hand, scored a 23-25, 25-20, 23-25, 25-4, 1512 win over Gracel Christian College to finish fifth and Canossa Academy trounced San Juan Institute of Technology-Batangas, 22-25, 25-18, 26-24, 25-17, to end up seventh in the women’s contest.

The gold medal matches between University of Santo Tomas and National University in the girls’ division and VNS-Savouge and Umingan in the boys’ side were played late Sunday.

Meralco’s Raymund Almazan foils an attempt by Magnolia’s Jed Mendoza, but fouls him in the process in the PBA Philippine Cup. The Bolts won, 74-51.

POC chief Abraham Tolentino

Samantha Catantan

BDO willing to provide San Miguel with loans for NAIA modernization

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE country’s largest bank is willing to provide San Miguel Corp. with loans to bankroll the modernization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

BDO Unibank Inc., owned by the Sy family, said that as a lender, it is willing to support San Miguel for the rehabilitation, operations and maintenance of the main gateway in Parañaque City.

“There is no problem. I think they have the substance, and we believe that we have to improve NAIA. So, we’re helping,” BDO chairperson

P171 billion

P88 billion

Contract to operate, rehabilitate, maintain NAIA Required investment in first six years

82.2%

Gov’t shares in NAIA revenues

Groups ask gov’t to review PUV modernization

By Othel V. Campos

BUSINESS and labor groups called on the government to review the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) and increase government support through financial institutions to build the local jeepney industry’s production capacity.

“We believe that this program, which includes the phase-out of jeepneys—a cultural icon in the Philippines—will impact the livelihoods of countless jeepney operators, drivers, and their families,” the groups said in a statement.

The groups composed fo the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), Federation of Free Workers (FFW), Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (PhilExport) and the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP), noted the lack o of “just transition” in the formulation, execution and oversight of the PUVMP.

The program failed to include jeepney operators and drivers in the consultation meeting resulting in designs that may not be best suited for the realities of the transportation system, they said.

Teresita Sy-Coson told reporters when asked about BDO’s interest in financing the NAIA project.

Coson said, however, that BDO has no plan to invest in the San Miguel— led consortium.

“No investment, just a lender,” she said.

The SMC SAP Company Consortium, formed by San Miguel Holdings Corp., RMM Asian Logistics

Inc., RLW Aviation Development Inc. and Incheon International Airport Corp. secured a P171-billion contract to rehabilitate, operate and maintain NAIA.

San Miguel Group is mobilizing at least P88 billion in capital investments within the first six years and at least P122.3 billion in capital investments for its entire 25-year concession period.

The operations and maintenance of the airport will be handed over to San Miguel Group on or before September 2024 after the signing of the concession agreement with the government last month.

The NAIA PPP Project is expected to boost economic growth, while lifting tourism arrivals with improved

levels of services and upgraded airport infrastructure.

The project involves capital investment to improve the airport’s facilities to comply with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and other internationally-accepted standards.

The concessionaire will be responsible for both landside and airside operations of NAIA.

It will be required to undertake works to enhance the compliance, safety and security of the airport, optimize and boost airport capacity to cater to the increasing air traffic in accordance with objective parameters to be provided in detail in the concession agreement.

UPGRADED PORT.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (left) and Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista lead the inauguration of the upgraded and modernized Passenger Terminal Building of the Port of Batangas in Batangas City on April 26, 2024. Hailed as the largest and modern passenger terminal building in the country, the 1.5-hectare facility can now accommodate up to 8,000 passengers from its previous 2,500 passenger capacity.

MPTC plans to invest P10b in barrier-free technology

METRO Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) said over the weekend it is investing up to P10 billion to transition all its expressways to a barrierfree system.

“We want to move into the internationally accepted standards of tollway operations, barrier less and multiroad. Under this standard, you can go much faster than the overspending limit,” MPTC president and chief executive Rogelio Singson said.

“This one could range from P8 billion to P10 billion,” he said.

MPTC chief transformation officer

Roberto Bontia said the project would be undertaken in “phases” where North Luzon Expressway, Subic Clark-Tarlac Expressway and NLEX Connector Road would be the first to complete the rollout by end-2025.

“CALAX and CAVITEX are foreseen to go-live by end 2026,” he said.

Bontia said studies confirmed that “barrier-free” set-ups at tolling points in expressways reduce carbon emissions by as much as 30 percent, contributing to environmental sustainability.

MPTC operates NLEX, SCTEX,

Manila Cavite Expressway, C5 Link Expressway and Cavite Laguna Expressway.

Data showed that as of September 2023, the average daily traffic along NLEX reached 321,384 vehicle entries, while the average daily traffic along SCTEX totaled 77,878 vehicle entries.

The average daily traffic for the Connector Road Section 1 reached 12,000 vehicles per day; Cavitex, 158,000 vehicles; Calax, 34,000 vehicles; and Cavitex C5 Link, 14,000 vehicles. Darwin G. Amojelar

PAGCOR posted 42% total income growth to P25b in first quarter

STATE-OWNED Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) said over the weekend its total income in the first quarter climbed 42.6 percent to P25.24 billion from a year ago.

PAGCOR said the three-month earnings put the state gaming firm on track to reach the P100-billion annual income for the year, which would be a first in its 40-year history.

“We are happy to announce that PAGCOR is able to sustain our growth trajectory in the first quarter of 2024 and this should help position us into achieving another record-breaking year,” PAGCOR chairman and chief executive Alejandro Tengco said.

PAGCOR’s net operating income after expenses reached P18.99 billion in the first quarter, or 54.22 percent higher than the JanuaryMarch 2023 figure of P12.32 billion. Gaming operations accounted for the bulk of first-quarter revenues with P22.29 billion. Of this amount, 43.46 percent or P9.69 billion came from the e-games sector (eBingo, eGames and Bingo grantees) while licensed casinos (integrated resorts) brought in P8.04 billion (36.06 percent).

Revenues from PAGCOR-run casinos under the Casino Filipino brand continued to slide, earning P3.7 billion or 16.62 percent of the first-quarter total. This was down from the 20.68-percent share it contributed to PAGCOR’s revenues in 2023.

Updated check design starts May

BANK of the Philippine Islands reminded its clients about the mandatory implementation of the updated check design as prescribed by the Philippine Clearing House Corp.

It said that only updated checks would be accepted for clearing starting May 1, 2024.

BPI said all its checkbooks released starting June 2020 are compliant with the updated check design as seen below.

The bank said old-format checks dated April 30, 2024 or earlier can still be honored for deposit or encashment on or before the 180th day from the date of issuance. “Otherwise, it will be considered stale,” it said.

Asian central banks face different challenges

REFORESTATION.

More than 50 volunteers from Manila Electric Company (Meralco) and Philippine National Police join the sustainable reforestation advocacy of One Meralco Foundation (OMF) in Siniloan, Laguna. A total of 600 more trees were planted at the Laguna-Quezon Land Grant (LQLG), bringing the total number of trees planted in the area to 202,604. The initiative forms part of OMF’s One For Trees program geared towards environmental preservation.

detects rise in child pornography sites

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said it recorded a sharp rise in detected child pornography websites and URLs this year as it intensifies efforts to shield society’s most vulnerable from such despicable offenses.

The telecom unit of the Ayala Group said the most recent data reveal a concerning trend, with the number of blocked child pornography sites from its network climbing from 559 in the first quarter of 2023 to 903 in the first quarter of 2024, marking a 61-percent increase.

The count of blocked child pornography URLs surged by more

than 51 percent from 64,802 in the first quarter of 2023 to 97,951 in the same period this year, highlighting the critical nature of the issue and the pressing need for continued vigilance and action.

“The exponential rise in child exploitation sites is a disturbing situation that demands immediate action. As a responsible corporate citizen, Globe is committed to using every resource at our disposal to address this abhorrent crime and safeguard the well-being of our children,” Globe chief privacy officer Irish Salandanan-Almeida said. Darwin G. Amojelar

OXFORD Economics said most central banks across emerging Asia are under pressure to cut policy rates to boost growth. “But so far, there has been little action apart from a recent move in Indonesia,” it said. Instead of a rate cut on April 24, Bank Indonesia raised its policy rate by 25 basis points to 6.25 percent. “This shows that central banks in the region have different concerns when considering whether to loosen monetary policy,” Oxford Economics said.

It said that as inflation is under control for most emerging Asian countries, the main task for central banks in the region comes down to balancing the trade-off between boosting growth and absorbing external pressure on their currencies.

“Beyond the obvious considerations for central banks – growth, currencies, and inflation – other important factors in determining monetary policy include the timing and the magnitude of anticipated US rate cuts; upside risks to inflation from elevated oil prices; and the impact of a flight to safety due to geopolitical tensions,” it said.

PEZA pushes green technologies

THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) recently hosted the first sustainability forum on April 22 to April 23, 2024, titled “Ecozones In-Depth: EcoIndustrial Parks and Green Technologies”. The event advanced the integration of sustainability within economic zone development. The forum aimed to educate and mobilize PEZA registered business enterprises (RBEs) and other stakeholders about emerging technologies that help build smart, inclusive and sustainable eco-industrial developments and promote clean and green manufacturing practices. “Simply put, we must continually adapt in order to make our businesses climateresilient, green, sustainable and responsive to climate change. This reduces our overall carbon footprint on nature and lessens our negative impact on the environment—without compromising company efficiency and profitability,” said PEZA director-general Tereso Panga.

PH stocks seen moving sideways

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PHILIPPINE stocks are expected to trade sideways this week, after last week’s rally as investors will likely remain glued on developments on inflation and interest rate.

Philstocks Financial Inc. research head Japhet Tantiangco said macroeconomic concerns would still weigh on the market over the short term.

“Macroeconomic concerns are still expected to be present, primarily with respect to the Philippines’ inflation and interest rate outlook. These in turn are expected to weigh on the market,” Tantiangco said.

Tantiangco said investors are also expected to watch out for policy outlook clues from the Federal Reserve’s meeting next week following the latest macroeconomic data from the US where first-quarter gross domestic product grew below expectations, but first-quarter inflation picked up from the preceding quarter.

The onset of earnings could also provide positive catalysts that could bring back the bullish sentiment.

After three straight weeks of decline, the 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) rebounded strongly, gaining 185 points, or 2.88 percent, week-on-week to close at 6,628.75.

All sectoral indices ended in the green led by mining and oil (+7.93 percent) and industrial (+6.07 percent)

Average turnover declined to P4.41 billion, down 56 percent week-on-week while net foreign selling accelerated.

“The PSEi’s sold bound at the 6,400 level is a relief sign in an otherwise lacklustre week,” online brokerage firm 2TradeAsia.com said.

US Fed to meet amid fading hopes of summer rate cuts

WASHINGTON—The US Federal Reserve is highly likely to keep interest rates unchanged later this week, as policymakers contend with a recent uptick in inflation that has sharply cut the chance of a summer start to interest rate cuts.

The Fed’s decision to hike interest rates and then hold them at a 23year high has helped to significantly lower elevated inflation, although it remains stuck firmly above the US central bank’s long-term target of two percent.

Since the start of this year, the Fed’s favored inflation measure has actually accelerated, hitting an annual rate of 2.7 percent in March, while economic growth has slowed, and the labor market has remained robust.

The current environment, analysts say, is likely to lead the rate-setting Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) to hold rates at their current level of between 5.25 and 5.50 percent for longer than previously thought.

“Another round of elevated inflation data is likely to lead to a more hawkish-leaning message at the May FOMC meeting,” economists at Deutsche Bank wrote in a recent note to clients.

At the most recent FOMC meeting in March, policymakers penciled in three quarter percentage-point rate cuts this year, although Fed Chair Jerome Powell also warned that inflation was “still too high.” AFP

NexGen eyeing IPO to fund RE projects

By Alena Mae S. Flores

NEXGEN Energy Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Pure Energy Holdings Corp. (PEHC) said over the weekend it is preparing for an initial public offering (IPO) to raise funds for its renewable energy projects in the pipeline.

The company is developing solar and wind projects with a capacity of over 2,350 megawatts over the next 10 years.

NexGen was established on June 7, 2017 to be the wind, solar and agriculture technology development arm of PEHC.

“We are excited about NexGen’s

role in helping to secure the country’s energy supply needs. We support the Department of Energy’s (DOE) goal of achieving a 35 percent renewable energy share by 2030,” NexGen president Eric Roxas said.

“Cost to build solar plants is around $750,000 per MW. Cost to build wind is between $1 million and $2 million.

So will need around $100 million in the next five years,” he said.

The company has three main subsidiaries, including SPARCSolar Powered Agri-rural Communities Corp., which operates three solar farms in Zambales, Bataan and Bulacan; 5Hour Peak Energy Corp., which has a pipeline of over 1,000 MWp of solar projects; and Airstream Renewables Corp., which has a pipeline of up to 1,330 MW of onshore and offshore wind projects.

NexGen also has eight wind energy service contracts (WESC) under Airstream, with four more WESCs in the process of being consolidated into Airstream.

Ayala auto arm bullish on EV growth in PH

AC Mobility, the automotive arm of conglomerate Ayala Corp., is bullish on the potential of electronic vehicle (EV) in the country.

AC Mobility expects that 20 percent of all new cars in the Philippines would be battery EVs by 2030.

AyalaMobility chief executive Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala said in a recent news briefing three out four EVs being sold in the market are from the group’s EV line-up.

“Long term, we believe that 20 percent of new vehicles sold will be battery electric vehicles in the Philippines by 2030. Our goal being a leading EV platform in the country is to have a significant stake of that market,” Zobel said de Ayala said.

ACMobility is the Philippine distributor of Kia EVs. It also became the official national distributor of BYD, the largest manufacturer of plug-in hybrid and pure electric vehicles in the world.

BYD has three dealers across the country, and ACMobility intends to increase this to to 20 dealers this year.

ACMobility is set to open a BYD dealership in Cebu, the first outside Metro Manila this week.

Together with its affiliates Ayala Land Inc. and Integrated Micro-electronics, Inc., it launched a network of 33 EV charging stations in 16 locations across the country last year.

The Ayala Group aims to add 100 more stations in at least 40 locations within the year.

Zobel de Ayala said the company is focused on bringing in a compelling line-up of four-wheel EVs and widening the charging infrastructure, store footprint and its internal capabilities as demand for EVs increases.

“We recognize that the shift towards clean technology will take time to materialize. Thus, our focus today is to enable that transition,” he said.

Jenniffer B. Austria

Host Saudi warns of economic fallout from Gaza war at global summit

RIYADH—Saudi Arabia on Sunday called for regional “stability”, warning of the effects of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war on global economic sentiment at the start of a summit attended by a host of Gaza mediators.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Palestinian leaders and high-ranking officials from other countries trying to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas are on the guest list for the summit in Riyadh,

capital of the world’s biggest crude oil exporter.

The Gaza war along with conflicts in Ukraine and elsewhere put “a lot of pressure” on the economic “mood”, Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan said at one of the first panel discussions of the two-day World Economic Forum (WEF) special meeting.

“I think cool-headed countries and leaders and people need to prevail, and you need to make sure that you actually de-escalate,” Jadaan said.

“The region needs stability.”

The war in Gaza, which has sent regional tensions soaring, began with an unprecedented attack on southern Israel by Palestinian militant group Hamas on October 7.

The attack resulted in the deaths of about 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.

Israel estimates that 129 hostages seized by militants on October 7 are

still being held in Gaza, including 34 the military says are dead.

Vowing to destroy Hamas, Israel’s retaliatory offensive has killed at least 34,388 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry.

“The world is today walking a tightrope right now, trying to balance security and prosperity,” Saudi planning minister Faisal al-Ibrahim told a press conference on Saturday previewing the summit. AFP

Tesla CEO Elon Musk arrives in China on state invitation

BEIJING, China—Tesla CEO Elon Musk arrived in China on Sunday, state media said, the tech billionaire’s second trip in less than a year to the world’s biggest market for electric vehicles.

“At the invitation of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, Tesla (US) CEO Elon Musk arrived in Beijing this afternoon,” state broadcaster CCTV said. State media said Musk met with Ren Hongbin, the head of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, “to discuss next steps in cooperation and other topics”. Musk has extensive business

interests in China and his most recent visit was in June last year.

Tesla did not respond to AFP’s earlier requests for confirmation that Musk was visiting China or share his itinerary for the trip.

The mercurial magnate is a controversial figure in the West, but in China Tesla’s electric vehicles have become a staple of middle-class urban life.

Musk’s arrival in China coincides with a cut-throat price war between firms desperate to get ahead in the fiercely competitive EV market. It also comes as Beijing hosts a massive auto show.

China’s local car giant BYD -“Build Your Dreams” -- beat Tesla in last year’s fourth quarter to become the world’s top seller of EVs. Tesla reclaimed that title in the first quarter of this year, but BYD remains firmly on top in its home market. AFP

STEEL

Government Services and Insurance System president and general manager Jose Arnulfo Veloso (right) and SteelAsia Lemery Works Inc. (SLWI) chairman and chief executive Benjamin Yao seal their partnership with a handshake after the signing of a loan agreement to jump-start the establishment of a steel mill in Lemery, Batangas.

DIGITAL EDUCATION. Aboitiz Foundation teams up with Huawei Technologies UnionDigital and GoDigital Pilipinas to usher a new era of digital education across the country. BEST

with Grabfood featuring its crowd favorite iced beverage.

BUSINESS

Advantec of Japan to invest $2b in micro solar power grids

By Othel V. Campos

MINI-GRID provider Advantec Philippines plans to invest $1.2 billion to $2 billion in building the first of a series of micro-solar power grids within economic zones starting with an industrial zone in Pampanga provinces.

Advantec Philippines president Noriaki Sanada said the company is expanding its footprint in the Philippines after cornering a specific market in Japan.

“We’re working on a micro-grid project in Pampanga. This is renew-

Ayala unit seeking partners to derisk two energy projects

By Alena Mae S. Flores

LISTED Ayala-owned Enex Energy Corp. said over the weekend it is looking for partners for Service Contract 55 in the West Philippine Sea and its 1,100-megawatt combined-cycle gas turbine power plant in Batangas.

Enex chairman Eric Francia said during the company’s annual stockholders’ meeting last week that they were “actively looking the right partner to invest, to derisk the gas exploration development for SC 55.”

“The company’s oil and gas exploration contract, SC55 continues to be under force majeure given geopolitical issues associated with the West Philippine Sea. With that said, we continue to explore bringing in the right partner or sponsor to undertake the exploration and development activities once it is possible to do so,” Francia said.

The company’s subsidiary, Palawan55 Exploration and Production Corp. (Palawan55) owns a majority stake in SC 55 in southwest Palawan, which holds the Cinco prospect, estimated to contain 1.3 trillion to 2.4 trillion cubic feet of gas and 45 million barrels of oil.

Meanwhile, Francia said the company continues to make progress in the downstream sector.

“Our investee company, Batangas Clean Energy (BCE), continues to develop the 1,100-MWcombined cycle gas turbine project in Batangas province, which is awaiting a competitive selection process in order to secure a customer offtake contract,” he said.

“We are also entertaining potential investors who would potentially put equity to enable the project,” Francia said.

ENEX and USbased Blackstone Inc. portfolio company – Gen X Energy LLC are jointly developing BCE.

“The company will focus on its two assets, namely SC55 and BCE, and we will look to unlock value at the opportune time,” Francia said.

Francia said that while ENEX’s parent company ACEN is supporting the joint venture company, ACEN has already committed to only invest in 100 percent RE.

“I just want to make it clear that it is not the intent of ACEN to invest in the construction equity of a gas-fired power plant because we already committed to become 100 percent RE generation by 2025,” Francia said earlier.

able energy proposal utilizing solar power. Since solar cannot supply power in the nighttime, we will provide power options though battery systems,” he said. The company is equipped to provide

CACAO TRAINING.

Residents of Barangay Cantapoy, Malimono, Surigao del Norte participate in the training on cacao bean fermentation and processing conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry on April 23, 2024.

The training aims to equip local cacao growers with the technical know-how to become suppliers of fermented cacao beans to local processors.

power source to companies and locators inside the economic zones that are working on 24-hour shifts.

Advantec said it is also prepared to ramp solar power capacities up to 2,000 megawatts, aligning iterations with the increasing number of locators and their power requirement.

Sanada said the company was encouraged by a slew of benefits offered by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) to locators and technology providers. The company is particularly interested in the tax incentives given to companies locating in the ecozones,

the abundance of hardworking young workforce who are English literate and the Philippines proximity to Asian countries including Japan. Its parent company in Japan has more than 20 years’ experience in constructing mega solar farms. Its key technologies for net zero energy building includes solar systems, energy management systems, battery systems, emergency back-up systems and micro-grid smart city.

Advantec and PEZA signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in October 2023 for power supply to PEZA ecozones.

PH retail sector propels economic growth, innovation

(PRA) is holding the National Retail Conference and Expo (NRCE)—the biggest, most trusted and most important event in the retail industry on Aug. 29 to 30 at the SMX Convention Center Manila.

The 30th NRCE is organized by PRA, the national organization of the country’s top retailers and allied industries.

It is regarded as the most significant retail event in the country, bringing together industry leaders, innovators and professionals for a transformative experience in the dynamic world of retail.

NRCE 2024 committee is spearheaded by its overall chair Sam Gregory Lim, chief operating officer of BLIMS Lifestyle Group, with conference chair CJ Jesena, project leasing consultant of Shangri-La Plaza Corp., and expo chair Mary Ang, Heritage Multi-office Products chief executive.

“PRA aims to empower the entire spectrum of retail and allied industries, fostering unmatched growth and global competitiveness. Prepare for an unparalleled experience featuring highly effective, engaging, and inspirational learning sessions, coupled with a showcase of world-class solutions from top providers not only within the Philippines but also from around the globe,” Lim said.

He said the retail sector stands as a steadfast force, propelling economic growth and continuous resilience and innovation on a global scale.

Acknowledging the challenges faced, the industry remains unwavering, advancing towards a

7 Mindanao airports get P1.3-b funds for upgrade

SEVEN airports in Mindanao are getting a combined P1.3 billion in fresh infrastructure development funding this year, Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel said Sunday.

“Congress has provided new money for the upgrading of commercial aviation hubs all over Mindanao, including those in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, such as Jolo Airport in Sulu province,” Pimentel said.

“Improved airports in the provinces will facilitate the transfer of people and goods, bring in more tourists, support the growth of small businesses and help create new jobs,” he said.

Pimentel said the seven Mindanao airports are Bukidnon Airport which will receive P320 million; Central Mindanao M’lang Airport (P300 million); New Zamboanga International Airport (P300 million); Tandag Airport (P100 million); Jolo Airport (P100 million); Mati Airport (P100 million); and Surigao Airport (P80 million).

Pimentel said aviation infrastructure allotments are usually spent to rehabilitate or construct runways, taxiways, ramps, control towers, passenger terminals and perimeter fencing as well as power, water and fire stations, among other facilities.

The allotments may also be spent to acquire new navigational equipment, according to Pimentel.

A new airline – Bangsamoro Airways – launched light aircraft flights from Cotabato City to Zamboanga City and Jolo last week.

constantly dynamic retail landscape.

“Together, let’s craft a narrative that not only enriches the retail experience for businesses and customers but also propels us towards a brighter, more empowered tomorrow,” he said.

The new airline, established by Maguindanao del Norte-based Federal Airways Inc., also plans to eventually deploy flights from Zamboanga to Mapun in Tawi-Tawi province, and from Cotabato to General Santos City.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

Net financing declined 18.2% in first quarter

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE national government’s net financing fell 18.2 percent in the first quarter of 2024, data from the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) showed.

Its latest cash operations report showed that total borrowings in the first quarter amounted to P736.58 billion, down from P900.7 billion in the same month last year.

The bulk of the financing, amounting to P712.69 billion, was for domestic fund sources, higher than P652.5 billion in the same period last year.

Meanwhile, external net financing declined to P23.88 billion in the first quarter from P248.1 billion in the same period in 2023.

Data from the Department of Budget and Management showed the borrowing program for 2024 amounted to P2.46 trillion, higher than P2.207 trillion last year.

For this year’s borrowing program, the government would adopt a 75:25 borrowing mix in favor of domestic sources.

It said that as of end-February, the country’s outstanding debt reached P15.18 trillion, up by 2.63 percent from the previous month.

The Treasury said of the total debt stock, 30.32 percent was external debt and 69.68 percent was domestic debt.

For NG domestic debt, the endFebruary 2024 level of P10.58 trillion was 4.08 percent higher than the end-January 2024 level due to the net issuance of government securities.

Domestic debt gross issuance totaled P708.74 billion including the P584.86 billion 5-year retail treasury bonds issuance.

AG&P signs deal to link 4 major Visayas islands

AG&P Industrial and Visayas NECEBOLEY

Interlink Holdings Corp. (VNIHC) signed an exclusive memorandum of understanding for project management, construction and delivery of the $15-billion infrastructure project connecting four major islands in the Visayas.

AG&P Industrial said in a statement the infrastructure project would connect Negros, Cebu, Bohol and Leyte through an all-weather stateof-the-art bridges and expressways network. The project will start in the second quarter of 2024.

The project will be supported by a private consortium of global partners who will finance, design, construct, operate and maintain the bridges, road and mass transit network composed of four lane bridges with expanded expressways.

Sunlife:

SUN Life Asia released its inaugural “Sun Life Asia Financial Resilience Index” which examines the financial behaviors and beliefs of individuals in eight markets across the region, and the barriers they face in building long-term financial security. The index shows that while Filipino millennials have the highest levels of financial resilience, many still lack a plan of action—a key pillar of financial resilience.

The Sun Life Asia Financial Resilience Index is based on a survey of 8,000 people in eight markets: the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, India, Indonesia and Vietnam. The survey of 1,000 people in the Philippines found that millennials are the most financially resilient generation. They are more optimistic about their financial futures than their Baby Boomer peers (80 percent vs. 71 percent) and Gen Z peers

London’s Brand Finance names

Mang Inasal ‘strongest brand’ in

PH

The consortium will also undertake the building of pipes, ducts and landing stations to accommodate for lease the installation of the national electric grid high voltage power transmission cables, the high cap flow industrial grade water pipes and the multiple core fiber optic telecommunications.

Other sources of project income will be derived from reclamation development, water supply, power wheeling charges, communications, mass transit, and real estate development.

“AG&P is the cornerstone of the

Filipino construction industry. We built many of the country’s signature structures, including the Ayala Bridge, the first steel bridge, Manila’s water and sewage systems, Araneta Coliseum, national monuments and other historical landmarks, including the first LNG import terminal of the Philippines commissioned in 2023,” said AG&P Industrial president Alex Gamboa.

“We are privileged to partner with VNIHC for Project NECEBOLEY that will lay the Philippines’ iconic infrastructure for interconnectivity by land within the region, solving for access across Visayas. Pivotal to the country’s economy, Project Neceboley will transform Visayas into a thriving business hub and accelerate socio-economic development, improving the lives of millions of Filipinos,” he said.

Oona teams up with GCash to provide users with smart flight delay insurance

GCASH and Oona Insurance Philippines signed a memorandum of agreement to make Smart Flight Delay insurance available in the GInsure Marketplace of the leading financial app in the Philippines.

The Smart Flight Delay provides travelers access to airport lounges if their flight gets delayed for at least 60 minutes. Passengers can get the insurance coverage at least two hours before their scheduled flights from just a few taps in the GCash app.

It reduces Filipino travelers’ discomfort due to delayed flights, making their experience more convenient and stress-free.

“This agreement with Oona Insurance Philippines is very timely now that the summer season is on. We ex-

pect a lot of our GCash users to travel to many destinations and for them to have insurance coverage against a real pain point, in what is supposed to be an exciting and much anticipated trip, is definitely a game-changer,” said Winsley Bangit, GCash vice president and head of new business group.

GCash is the leading e-wallet and the Philippines and the only double unicorn with more than 81 million users.

It said that with the new partnership with Oona Insurance, both are at the forefront in creating customer-centric innovations, introducing game changing products like Smart Flight Delay and making insurance protection easily accessible to millions of Filipinos who travel.

Filipinos, but lack plan of action

(71 percent), but just as optimistic as their Gen X peers (80 percent vs. 80 percent).

Millennials more likely to make financial decisions based on research than older generations (50 percent vs. 46 percent).

They are also more confident in their ability to meet their long-term financial goals compared to older generations (68 percent vs.60 percent).

Only 41 percent have a financial plan beyond a year which puts their goals at risk.

“Filipino millennials stood out in our study as the most financially resilient generation,” said Carla Gonzalez-Chong, chief client experience and marketing officer of Sun Life Philippines.

“As a very tech-savvy generation, millennials have more tools at their disposal when it comes to financial planning and are more likely to base their decisions on research,” Chong said.

AG&P Industrial signs an exclusive memorandum of understanding with Visayas Neceboley Interlink Holdings Corp. (VNIHC) for the project management, construction and delivery of the National Economic and Development Authority’s $15-billion infrastructure project connecting four major islands in Visayas –Negros, Cebu, Bohol, and Leyte, through an all-weather state-ofthe-art bridges and expressways network. Participating in the agreement are (from left) AG&P Industrial chief operating officer Ben San Jose, president Alex Gamboa, VNIHC chairman Angel Veloso Jr. and vice chairman Jose Natividad.

IN BRIEF

DTI, DOLE promote digital workforce

THE Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Labor and Employment underscored the crucial role of digital capabilities in elevating the Philippine workforce.

The discussion revolved around putting into action the DOLE-DTI initiative on Enterprise Development and Livelihood Assistance.

“We are steering our workforce towards high-value tasks that enable them to climb the ladder of value creation,” DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual said, outlining collaborative priorities with DOLE.

“This is especially crucial in the field of digital technology, which does not require extensive machinery but focuses on intellectual and creative skills,” he said.

The session explored strategic initiatives to embed digital training and development across the workforce, aiming to create at least 45 million green and high-quality jobs through the Trabaho Para Sa Bayan Act.

TikTok creators fear US ban impact

SAN Francisco, United States—Ayman Chaudhary turned her love for reading into a living on TikTok, posting video snippets about books like those banned in schools in ultra-conservative parts of the United States. Now the online platform she relies on to support her family is poised to be banned in what entrepreneurs using TikTok condemn as an attack on their livelihoods.

“It’s so essential to small businesses and creators; it’s my full-time job,” the 23-year-old Chicago resident told AFP.

“It makes me really worried that I live in a country that would pass bans like these instead of focusing on what’s actually important, like gun control and healthcare and education.” AFP

GM to close plants in Colombia, Ecuador

BOGOTÁ, Colombia—US carmaker General Motors announced Friday it would close manufacturing plants in Colombia and Ecuador and promised support to employees, hundreds of which will lose their jobs according to unions.

Dismantling of the Colombia plant would start without delay, while in Ecuador manufacturing activity will cease toward the end of August, it said in a press statement.

Operations in both countries will transition “to a national merchandising model to support the launch of nextgeneration vehicles,” it added.

A Colombian labor union said 600 people will find themselves without work. In Ecuador, GM provided some 450 direct jobs and more than 6,700 indirect ones, according to 2022 data.

GM said the plants had been underutilized, adding it would maintain its presence in the two countries through the Chevrolet brand. AFP

DIGITAL WORKFORCE. Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo Pascual (left) and Department of Labor and Employment Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma underscore the crucial role of digital capabilities in elevating the Philippine workforce. The two secretaries discussed the DOLE-DTI initiative on Enterprise Development and Livelihood Assistance established through a memorandum of agreement signed on May 8, 2023.

FLIGHT INSURANCE. GCash and Oona Insurance Philippines sign partnership that will benefit all Filipino travelers. Signing the memorandum of agreement for Smart Flight Delay coverage are Abishek Bhatia (left), founder and chief executive of the Oona Insurance Group and Winsley Royce Bangit, GCash vice president and head of new businesses group.

REAL ESTATE

By Jenniffer B. Austria

FEDERAL Land Inc., the property arm of the Tyled conglomerate GT Capital Holdings Inc., is spicing up the fast-rising Biñan City in Laguna with the launch of its newest 48-hectare development called Meadowcrest.

Federal Land chairman Alfred Ty said during the launch of the project last week that Meadowcrest signifies not just the expansion of Federal Land’s portfolio, but a reaffirmation of its commitment to innovation and progress as the project introduces new concepts to redefine the Philippine real estate landscape.

“We launched Federal Land Communities to anticipate and address the aspirations of the people. We recognized that the real estate landscape is ever changing and it was imperative for us to evolve alongside it,” Ty said.

“Drawing upon 50 years of solid real estate experience and expertise, we are leveraging our strengths to rebrand and revitalize our existing township properties and create new and future-ready developments,” he said.

Meadowcrest will be developed as a multi-use, master-planned community development that will offer lifestyle and business environment that will be intimate yet complete.

Federal Land’s Meadowcrest to revitalize southern living

Within the masterplan of Meadowcrest is Hartwood Village— an 11.3-hectare horizontal residential development offering 186 lots with a density of 16 lots per hectare.

Federal Land president and chief operating officer Thomas Mirasol said the company has yet to finalize the selling price for the lots as the official launch of the residential project is scheduled in June 2024. He said, however, the lots would be competitively priced based on current market price of P40,000 to P80,000

per square meter.

Comfort and convenience

With this project, Federal Land will utilize the 15-minute community concept where everything you need will be just within a short 15-minute walk or bike ride.

This will be made possible through walkable, human-scale design with integrated pedestrian and dedicated bike lanes among lush tree canopies, scenic landscaping and dedicated parklets.

At Meadowcrest, the 15-minute community concept comes to life,

Megaworld builds

‘World Museum’ in Cebu

MEGAWORLD, a pioneering developer of township projects, is constructing a contemporary museum within its 30-hectare property Mactan Newtown in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

This museum will be called the Mactan World Museum.

The museum’s collection, curated by Dannie Alvarez, will emphasize the historical ties between the Philippines and Spain, showcasing significant events including Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan’s arrival in Mactan and the Battle of Mactan.

The museum will include exhibit galleries, performance halls for Spanish dance and theatrical productions, and immersive experiences highlighting the Spanish colonial era. Additionally, the museum will feature life-size monuments of key historical figures during the era, Lapu-Lapu, King Philip II and Magellan, and host various activities rooted in Filipino-Spanish traditions.

The museum will feature five main exhibit galleries on the second-floor showcasing collections, artifacts, rep-

lica mementos, and interactive virtual displays related to various influences and historical events between the Philippines and Spain. These subjects include Spain’s quest for spices, the Kingdom of Sugbu, Magellan’s early expeditions, and the Battle of Mactan, among others.

“It has always been part of our townships’ mission and identity to celebrate the arts, culture, and heritage of every location where we are present,” said Graham M. Coates, head of Megaworld Lifestyle Malls.

“We are excited to bring our plans to fruition for the Mactan World Museum here in Lapu-Lapu City, a destination that plays a big historical significance as far as the Philippines-Spanish heritage is concerned. Being at the center of The Mactan Newtown, this museum will provide locals and tourists with a creative avenue to connect, share interests as a community, expand knowledge, and form a deeper appreciation not only for Mactan but also for our nation’s history,” added Coates.

offering residents a lifestyle where essential amenities, recreational spaces and a vibrant community atmosphere are all within easy reach. Whether it’s enjoying a leisurely walk to the neighborhood center or cycling to nearby keycenters, Meadowcrest embodies the essence of a modern, sustainable township.

This urban design concept is a solution to create more sustainable, equitable and healthier cities.

WIth this thoughtful design, prime location and intimate community,

Meadowcrest features a Village Center offering a mix of cozy nooks and lively brickand-mortar storefronts to complete the community’s little town atmosphere.

Meadowcrest is poised to set a new standard of living in Laguna.

Laguna’s potential

Laguna is one of the fastest-growing provinces in Luzon, rapidly gaining traction as a premier growth center, given its status as the largest contributor to the gross domestic product (GDP) in 2022 among the 82 provinces. Part and parcel of that growth is Biñan. Biñan flourishes with dynamic energy and boundless potential. Federal Land’s expansion into the city is a strategic choice grounded in

RLC Residences tops off first buildings in

the city’s growth trajectory.

Federal Land said the city’s accessibility benefits from multiple infrastructure developments will provide convenient mobility options to future residents of Meadowcrest. Biñan also boasts of diverse investment opportunities, marked by a growing number of manufacturing companies, shopping centers, landmark establishments and other points of interest that make it a prime address.

It is home to industrial powerhouses like Laguna Technopark and Laguna International Industrial Park as well as the largest public market hub in CALABARZON. Esteemed schools and colleges like De La Salle University - Laguna Campus and Brent International School Manila further enhance the city’s appeal to new homeowners and investors.

“This diverse landscape of opportunities and burgeoning infrastructure in Biñan and surrounding areas solidify Biñan as the desirable new home for those looking to lead well-balanced and fulfilling lives,” the property firm said.

Sierra Valley Gardens

Launched in 2020, the development is one of RLC Residences’ fastest-selling condominium properties, thanks to its strategic location inside the Sierra Valley Estate in Cainta, Rizal and is just couple of minutes away from Ortigas central business district.

The property, which is the first smart suburban community in the area, showcases well-thought-out amenities and innovative features such as smart deliverables in every unit. Sierra Valley Gardens also offers resort-like amenities and facilities, plus direct access to the soon-to-rise mall and office buildings within the estate.

“We are grateful for this milestone of Sierra Valley Gardens and equally excited to welcome the buyers in this condo development into their new homes soon. There are so many things to look forward to in this project - the convenience of living in well-designed units that they can call home, where the amenities for leisure, recreation, and wellness are at their fingertips. All these make Sierra Valley Gardens our buyers’ smart move here in the East,” said Karen Cesario, marketing head and chief integration officer of RLC Residences.

formalize partnership

OLP combines the convenience of metro living and the relaxing vibe of nature. Running through the development is a sprawling 7-hectare leisure field that will feature a family bonding zone, a kids’ playground, a physical activity area, quiet zone, and pocket gardens, with the convenience and security offered by a condominiumstyle development.

Federal Land chairman Alfred Ty inspects the miniature model of the township project Meadowcrest

Village Clubhouse at Hartwood Village. Artist’s Perspective

Mactan World Museum soon to rise at The Mactan Newtown in Lapu Lapu City, Cebu

RLC Residences, the residential division of real estate giant Robinsons Land Corp. recently celebrated the topping off ceremony of the first two buildings

Phase 1 of Sierra Valley Gardens. The event marked the development’s achievement of reaching the top floors of Sierra Valley Gardens.

From left are: ArkNet Inc. president and executive project manager architech Samuel Santos; RLC Residences senior consultant and project construction head engineer Jose Rovie Cipriano; Robinsons Land chief marketing officer and RLC Residences senior vice president and business unit general manager John Richard Sotelo; RLC Residences assistant vice president and business development and design head Stephanie Anne Go; RLC Residences senior director, marketing head and chief integration officer Karen Cesario; Robinsons Land head of corporate project procurement engineer Rodanil De Silva, and chairman of Terp Asia Construction Corp. engineer Adolfo Escalona.

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

DIRECTOR Philip King made his debut of not one, but two films on April 24. The coincidental theatrical release of the romantic movie Elevator and barkada summer flick G! Elyu is nothing but a big deal for the writer-director.

King is a writer-director under Rein Entertainment. He was a scriptwriter for ABS-CBN for over 10 years where he wrote numerous top-rating primetime shows such as Noah, Budoy, Juan Dela Cruz, Katorse, Kapitan Inggo, and Sana Maulit Muli. He has also written and directed Tencent Pictures’ first Filipino Original Series, the youth-oriented drama mystery Section St. Valentine: The Disappearance of Divine streaming on WE TV, and is cocreator for the critically acclaimed TV Series Bagman

Philip King doubles down with ‘Elevator,’ ‘G! LU’

Both Elevator and G! LU were written and directed by King. He says it represents two important phases in life – one when you are wild, young and free, and the other when you are at the crossroads of success and failure.

Rein Entertainment’s Elevator is an international co-production with Viva Entertainment, Cineko Productions, WASD Media Productions, and Dogma Films. The film stars Paulo Avelino and Kylie Verzosa alongside an international cast, including Singaporean actor Adrian Pang

The film is a modern love story that follows two hard-working, ambitious Filipinos in Singapore who must choose between love and their dreams. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Singapore, Elevator offers a poignant narrative filmed

movie

VICE Ganda is set to star in a new movie this year.

Entitled And The Breadwinner Is , the project marks the first collaboration between Star Cinema and The IdeaFirst Company. It is also the first time for Vice Ganda to be working with award-winning director Jun Robles Lana

“This is the first time we’re working together, and I’m really happy. This is a highlight of my career not just for this year, but for my movie career. This is one of the biggest highlights,” Vice Ganda said.

Lana expressed excitement about working with Vice Ganda for the first time, promising viewers a different cinematic experience filled with comedy, drama, and heartfelt moments.

“It is everything that people are waiting for in a Vice Ganda movie, the hilarious and riotous comedy and so much more. If we’ve seen Vice makes us laugh, we will also see him touch our hearts,” the director said.

With Lana’s directorial style combined with his comedic brilliance, Vice Ganda hopes to fulfill his dream of doing a film that will resonate with viewers long after its release.

“I’ve had my fair share in the box office somehow. I want to have in my filmography a movie that’s been fought for in international film festivals. This is my dream. I have been praying for a movie that has internal value,” he said.

“You know, there are also movies that didn’t do well at the box office but have internal value in Philippine cinema and in the consciousness of the people who watched it. There comes a time when it’s revisited because of the type of film it is. I want to experience that now,” the TV hostcomedian added.

The movie’s writers, Cayanan Mijares and Jumbo Albano , shared that And The Breadwinner Is will relate the experiences of a family’s breadwinner and explore their joys, pains, struggles, and hopes.

Vice Ganda thanked the viewers who supported his movie career and made him the highest-grossing Filipino movie actor of all time whose movies have raked in a gross total of P4.6 billion at the box office.

When asked who is joining him in the cast, Vice only revealed that her co-host in It’s Showtime , Jhong Hilario be part of the movie.

within a hotel populated by migrant workers. It’s a must-watch cinematic experience.

ALV Films’ G! LU, on the other hand, produced with Bench and Rein Entertainment, is a summer movie. Starring Ruru Madrid, Derrick Monasterio, David Licauco, Kiko Estrada, Teejay Marquez, Enzo Pineda alongside Katarina Rodriguez, Kimi Mugford, Sophia Senoron, Michelle Dee, and Chanel Morales, the film follows the last hurrah of summer for six friends in the VBC (Valley Boys Crew). It’s a trip to solidify their bond and live life to the fullest. Shot against the stunning beaches of La Union, this pre-pandemic production features the hottest Bench models and promises to be the summer movie you can’t miss.

and unforgettable parties. Apart from Elevator and G! LU, Rein Entertainment is also co-

‘Barangay Singko Panalo’ amps up the fun with new cast members

Very Wang

Nickie Wang

IS BARANGAY Singko Panalo a gag show, a sitcom, or a game show?

It’s all of the above, which is why main cast member Jerald Napoles is optimistic that the show will be able to touch more lives and be an entertaining program for years to come.

Speaking to Manila Standard Entertainment, Napoles admitted that doing the show feels like just “play” for them. It’s not that they’re not making an effort to improve the program, it’s just that the camaraderie among the cast is already great, and they become more natural on set, which is reflected on screen.

“We do have challenges because we want to improve the show, but when I say it’s so easy to do the show because we’re happy, it’s like we’re not working because it’s so enjoyable to work on this show. We’re like one big group of friends or family. And when the set is like that, you don’t feel like it’s work,” Napoles explained.

The fun on set has doubled according to Napoles with the new additions to their cast. Joross Gamboa and Sam Coloso recently joined the already dynamic cast of Napoles and Kayla Rivera Gamboa steps into the role of Kags Jo, forming the hilarious “J&J” tandem with Napoles. As quirky game masters, the duo promises to serve up laughter and unexpected twists at every turn.

“I feel more in touch with my character here because it’s like it’s just me, so I’m more natural here because I can be myself while working and enjoying the company of the other cast members,” Gamboa, who officially joined the show on April 19, said.

Meanwhile, Coloso, a Spingo alum, injects her infectious energy into the mix, doubling the charm that Rivera already brings to the table. She debuts in the show starting early May.

With these new additions, Barangay Singko Panalo aims to raise the bar even higher, offering viewers a blend of unpredictably thrilling challenges and wacky skits. From adrenaline-pumping games to laugh-out-loud moments, the show promises to keep audiences entertained and engaged as they root for their favorite contestants.

Director Percy Intalan expressed his enthusiasm for the evolving dynamics of the show, emphasizing how the introduction of new characters will further enrich the comedic and collaborative elements of Barangay Singko Panalo

“With the arrival of Joross Gamboa and Sam Coloso, Barangay Singko Panalo is gearing up to deliver double the laughter, double the excitement, and double the fun,” Intalan said.

Barangay Singko Panalo airs Monday to Friday at 5:30 p.m. on TV5’s TodoMax Primetime Singko block, airing before Frontline Pilipinas

From left: ‘Elevator’ stars Paulo Avelino and Kylie Verzosa with director Philip King

Director Philip King (center) with ‘G!LU’ stars Ruru Madrid (leftmost), Enzo Pineda (second from left), Teejay Marquez (second from right), and David Licauco (rightmost)

Jerald Napoles says that the set of ‘Barangay Singko Panalo’ became twice as fun with their

Joross Gamboa expresses his delight in being one of the newest members of the show

From left: Ej Gonzaga, Sam Coloso, Joross Gamboa, Jerald Napoles, Kayla Rivera, and Bob Jbeili

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

‘Makiling’ goes out with a bang in thrilling finale week

By Abigail Adriatico

THE finale week of hit revenge drama series Makiling is set to take over the small screens with even more intense scenes of vengeance packed with shocking twists and turns.

Elle Villanueva, who stars as the revenge-seeking Amira, expressed her sentiments over the show’s success amidst its upcoming end during the media conference for its finale week.

“It takes a good team and cooperation to make a great series. Nakikita po kasi namin na lahat ng tao dito passionate sa ginagawa nila kaya siguro napakaganda ng resulta,” the actress said.

Senior Program Manager Karen C. Lumbo shared that what makes Makiling different from other shows is its constant attempt to push the boundaries with every scene.

“We love to experiment, we love to try new things or offer something new to viewers. That’s very challenging because afternoon dramas have always been a staple of our programming, so almost everything has been done. People are used to certain storylines. But we wanted to do something different,” said Lumbo.

Going over the things that the actors will miss most from their roles,

Elle Villanueva takes on the lead role of Amira in revenge drama series ‘Makiling’

Villanueva said that she will miss acting as Almira because she was her favorite character to portray.

“I will miss how he always listens to his heart and how close he is to his family... and how he fights for himself,” said Villanueva. In its finale week, many lives are on the line as the path towards vengeance continues for the characters of Almira, Magnolia (Lotlot de Leon), and Portia (Myrtle Sarrosa). As the tale reaches its inevitable end, viewers are left to wonder what will become of them as all hell breaks loose.

Revolving around the theme of revenge, Makiling stars Villanueva alongside Derrick Monasterio, Thea Tolentino, Kristoffer Martin, Myrtle Sarrosa, Lotlot de Leon, Royce Cabrera, and Rabiya Mateo. It also features veteran actors Mon Confiado, Bernadette Allyson-Estrada, Richard Quan, Cris Villanueva, Lui Manansala, and Andrea Del Rosario Viewers can catch Makiling’s nailbiting finale week starting today at 4:00 p.m. on GMA Afternoon Prime and GMA Pinoy TV.

Aaron Sorkin working on new Facebook movie tied to Jan. 6 riots

AARON Sorkin , Oscar-winning writer of The Social Network , is working on a follow-up movie about Facebook that will explore the company’s role in the Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the US Capitol.

Sorkin, who depicted the creation and early years of Facebook in 2010’s The Social Network , said the tech giant has since then played a major role in the United States’ sharp political polarization.

“I’ll be writing about this. I blame Facebook for January 6,” he said.

Sorkin, who also created TV’s The West Wing and the movie The Trial of the Chicago 7 , revealed the nascent project during a live recording of “The Town” podcast this week. He accused Mark Zuckerberg –co-founder, and chief executive of Facebook’s parent company Meta – of prioritizing growth at the expense of integrity, despite his already enormous personal wealth.

“Facebook has been, among other things,

American playwright and screenwriter Aaron Sorkin won an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay for his work in ‘The Social Network’

How the Agoncillos make smart spending a family affair

THE Agoncillo family proves that saving money can be fun and rewarding. They have mastered the art of living a comfortable life without breaking the bank.

Nicknamed the “Agonsulits,” Ryan, Judy Ann, and their daughter Luna turn everyday moments into #SavingsGoals. Their story shows us how to be frugal without sacrificing happiness. They live a fulfilling life with budget-friendly choices that bring them joy. Imagine kicking back at a peaceful lakeside, just the family and nature vibing together. No expensive setups, just good old-fashioned quality time. That’s the Agonsulit style. And when it comes to home hacks? Ryan’s got it down. In a post that went viral recently, it was shown that when little Luna had a wiggly tooth, Ryan didn’t rush to the dentist. Nope, he just whipped out some dental floss and gently turned to the dentist, showing that sometimes, the best solutions are the simplest—and cheapest.

Public transport isn’t just a way to get around; it’s a classroom on wheels. For their eldest daughter Yohan Judy Ann says, her life lessons don’t happen in a lecture hall alone but on buses and jeepneys, learning the real deal about money and how the average Joe lives and travels. For the Agonsulits, this is not just practical; it’s a way to stay grounded and connected to their roots.

Money talks in the Agoncillo home are never off the table. Ryan and Judy Ann keep it real with open convos about the cash flow, ensuring everyone from the eldest to the youngest knows how the money works and why saving is cool. It’s about setting up a future that’s as secure as it is bright and keeping everyone in the loop means every choice is a shared win.

“We’re wise when it comes to family spending. We want high quality for low cost because that’s what makes it worthwhile. That’s why they call us Agonsulit, right?” asserts Judy Ann.

When the munchies hit, McDelivery is their hero, delivering big flavors without the big price tag. Judy Ann, with her chef’s insight, puts it simply: “McDelivery isn’t just quick food; it’s smart eating. It’s about getting our favorite meals without the guilt.” The app is a staple on their phones, loaded with deals that keep every meal exciting and economical.

“The experience we have with McDelivery is truly comforting. It’s really worth it. It’s not just about ordering food; it’s about the convenience, variety, and affordability that it brings to our family’s table,” she adds.

Level up your hangout game the Agonsulit way with the McDelivery App. Movie night magic happens with the Chicken McNuggets Family Bundle (P599), composed of 20 McNuggets, BFF fries, and three Coke Floats. It’s a blockbuster deal without the blockbuster prices.

Whether you’re Team Big Mac or all about that Quarter Pounder life, the Burgers Family Bundle (P699) covers all bases with burgers, fries, and Coke floats to please the crew. Feeding the whole squad? The Chicken McShare Family Bundle (P799) brings the feast with chicken, spaghetti, and Coke floats, making sure no one’s left hungry. These aren’t just meals, however, they’re meal savers, making sure the family eats like kings on a jester’s budget. In this family, even the kids are in on the budgeting game. Using apps isn’t just for snaps and laughs; it’s for learning the ropes of digital pesos and cents. “Teaching our kids to budget through apps like McDelivery makes money management relatable and real,” says Judy Ann.

For those new to the McDelivery experience, there’s an extra treat: first-time users can score a free six-piece Chicken McNuggets with a minimum order of P500. And it gets even better — all users enjoy free delivery with a minimum order of just P450, making it easier and more affordable to indulge in your favorite meals.

Why not roll like the Agonsulits and turn your next mealtime into a major win? Check out the McDelivery app and snag those family bundles. As Ryan puts it, “Grab the app, pick your fave deals, and watch how you can feast without the fuss. Let’s make those meal moments epic and economical.”

tuning its algorithm to promote the most divisive material possible because that is what will increase engagement,” he said.”That is what will get you to what they call inside the hallways of Facebook, the ‘infinite scroll.’”

Asked exactly why Facebook was responsible for Jan. 6, he responded: “You’re going to need to buy a movie ticket.”

Many Americans rely on social media platforms like Facebook for their news. Tech companies stand accused both of failing to verify widely shared news stories – including viral conspiracy theories – and of excessively censoring what they show. Hundreds of people who invaded the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, were

motivated by then-president Donald Trump ’s false claim that the election had been “stolen” from him. Some cited conspiracy theories such as QAnon. The Social Network , directed by David Fincher, was a huge commercial and critical hit. It grossed some $225 million at the global box office and was nominated for eight Oscars including best picture. It won three Academy Awards, including best adapted screenplay for Sorkin. AFP

So, when you’re feeling the munchies, remember it’s all about smart choices and chill vibes.

Swipe into McDelivery and switch up your meal game—where every bite is about living large without spending big.

through their budgetfriendly practices

Elle Villanueva (left) stars alongside her boyfriend Derrick Monasterio

Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

By Nickie Wang

Marvel fans assemble for epic battle at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort

HONG KONG Disneyland is throwing an epic Marvel bash from April 26 to June 10. Guests can experience the Marvel Universe by participating in a range of interactive spectacles alongside iconic heroes like Iron Man, SpiderMan, Star-Lord, and a whole bunch of other awesome heroes to take down the bad guys.

During the day in “Find Your Super Power: Battle for Stark Expo,” attendees can join forces with Iron Man, Spider-Man, Star-Lord, and others to thwart Hydra’s invasion of Stark Expo. As night falls, the threat escalates with the debut of “Find Your Super Power: Battle in the Sky,” where fans assist Marvel heroes in repelling Hydra’s aerial assault using state-of-the-art drones.

Throughout Tomorrowland, Marvel superheroes like Iron Man, Spider-Man, Ant-Man, and The Wasp will patrol, offering fans opportunities to interact and learn combat techniques firsthand. Those donning superhero attire might even receive special invitations or secret missions from S.H.I.E.L.D. agents. Meanwhile, guests can capture unforgettable photos with life-size statues of Iron Man, Captain America, and Ant-Man at Expo Shop and Pavilion Gifts. Don’t miss the chance to grab Hong Kong Disneyland’s first-ever parkexclusive Hot Toys Super Heroes COSBABY collectibles and keychains, featuring five new designs.

Fuel up with a series of delicious new Marvel-themed treats available throughout the resort. Highlights include the Iron Man Burger Combo at Starliner Diner and the Avengers’ Sipper with Super Soda, featuring interchangeable Iron Man, Captain America, and Spider-Man icons.

Mercury Rising

Bob Zozobrado

TUCKED away in a corner of the Sulu Sea, on the eastern coast of Palawan and within a marine protected area, is Banwa Private Island. It has won global recognition as “Private Island of the Year” for the third year in a row and offers guests an extraordinary experience by providing them with luxurious personal space, exclusivity, and the opportunity to commune with nature’s amazing beauty.

With a name taken from the local word “Tagbanwa,” meaning, “Guardian of Rivers and Forests,” this sixhectare tropical paradise is only two hours from Manila by helicopter. It has six magnificent beach-front villas, each with its infinity pool. What I consider most noteworthy is the island’s deep well which provides still and sparkling spring drinking water for the guests. This same water is used in the swimming pools and the bathrooms for a chemical-free experience.

The resort is also 100 percent mosquito-free, thanks to instruments placed all around the island, containing water, sugar, and yeast, attracting mosquitoes and killing them in the process. This means guests do not have to worry about walking around the island’s lush gardens as they explore it and discover more of nature’s bounty.

Keep an eye out for on-the-go snacks to power you between battles, like the Quantum Hot Dog, the Hulkedout Super Power Churro, and the new Spider-Man Popcorn Bucket that reveals three different Spidey faces. For heroic adventures that extend beyond the park, stay at a resort hotel and tackle the enhanced Marvel-themed menu at The Archivist in Disney’s Hollywood Hotel. Don’t miss the mighty Marvel Heroes Mini Burger Skewers and the Ragnarok Medley.

Marvel fans, hone your superpowers. Learn about Iron Man’s groundbreaking technology at Stark Expo. Take an Iron Wing flight above Hong Kong in the Iron Man Experience. Explore the S.H.I.E.L.D. Science & Technology Pavilion to discover new world-saving tech from Stark Industries. Hop aboard the Dagger combat vehicle and join Ant-Man and The Wasp: Nano Battle for an unforgettable adventure. Extend the Marvel fun at the resort hotels! Disney’s Hollywood Hotel offers a Marvel Super Heroes Arts and Crafts Mission, where you can create your own heroic ornaments or lamps. Pre-order a Groot-themed surprise with in-room merchandise.

Starting Aug. 9, immerse yourself in the Marvel Universe with the brand-new Marvel-themed guest rooms at Disney’s Hollywood Hotel. As you enter, a stylized Quinjet soars above Stark Tower, drawing your eye to the epic Marvel Super Heroes mural on the wall. Iron Man, Captain Marvel, Captain America, Spider-Man, Thor, Hawkeye, Ant-Man, The Wasp, Black Widow, and Hulk assemble, bringing the Marvel Cinematic Universe to life. Plan your Marvel-themed staycation as early as the new guest rooms are available for early bird bookings from May 10. Visit https://www.hongkongdisneyland.com for more.

Luxury meets nature

Experience unrivaled seclusion and sustainable luxury at Banwa Private Island

dive sites around the island.

Guests can also choose between two exciting excursions. They can ride on the Iguana Yacht, an amphibious vessel, to explore a beautiful sandbar just 10 minutes from the island. Alternatively, they can embark on a relaxing sunset cruise, enjoying their favorite cocktails and finger food while admiring the breathtaking skylight colors that mark the end of the day.

YOUR MONDAY CHUCKLE

The villas range from one-bedroom to four-bedrooms and the resort’s allinclusive rates give guests the freedom to focus on their leisurely holiday and not have to worry about having to pay for anything else. With the gracious staff anticipating their every need, guests are in for a stay of pure bliss.

A small boy reciting the Lord’s Prayer ended it with “…and deliver us from people. Amen.”

Banwa Private Island has facilities that cater to everyone’s preferences. The Meridian Wellness and Sports Center has the most modern gym equipment and a spa staffed with expert therapists. For those who can’t stay away from golf, the island has a well-designed 9-hole course. Of course, Latitude, its fine dining restaurant, serves the most exquisite meal with ingredients organically grown on the island’s own farm.

For VIP guests who may have a large entourage traveling with them, the resort has a facility called Axis, a cluster of guest rooms beautifully designed and equipped with a kitchen and playroom.

What adventures with nature can one enjoy on this private island? A lot! For those who delight in the underwater scenery, Banwa Private Island has a complete set of diving equipment for guests to use, as they explore the deep, with the guidance of seasoned dive masters. There are exactly 15

For those seeking more thrilling adventures, the island transforms into a sanctuary for diverse bird species and other animals under the care of the AQUOS Foundation. Hawksbill turtles call this island home, with an estimated population of around 60. Witnessing a mother turtle lay her eggs is a remarkable sight. After carefully depositing her clutch, she meticulously covers the nest with sand to maintain moisture. Then, in a clever display of maternal instinct, she creates a decoy nest to confuse potential predators lurking nearby.

The island also has 62 bird species, the most interesting of which is the Philippine Scrubfowl, or the Tabon, seen continuously digging its claws in the sand. There is also the rare, near-threatened Mantanani Scops Owl. It is small, with a dark brown upper part and a pale lower part. It distinguishes itself from the regular owl because it has a

goose-like honk. Even more exciting is what takes place at sunset. Hordes of Palawan flying foxes, which are actually fruit bats, and estimated to number around 43,000, wake up from their daytime slumber and fly all over the place. It is an awesome sight even for nonnature lovers.

There is so much more to delight in at Banwa Private Island, where luxury and nature are at their best. More information on this beautiful resort may be obtained through 09178882864 or www. banwaprivateisland. com.

For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@ gmail.com

Attendees of the ‘Find Your Super Power: Battle in the Sky’ can enjoy an interactive experience in battling the evil forces of Hydra’s aerial assault

Hong Kong Disneyland’s Marvel Universe experience features many of the iconic heroes from the hit comic book franchise

The resort’s six beach-front villas have their own infinity pools with the water sourced from the island’s deep well

The Banwa Private Island is a paradise found on the eastern coast of Palawan in the Sulu Sea

The island serves as a sanctuary to rare animals protected by the AQUOS Foundation