Manila Standard - 2024 May 1 - Wednesday

By Vito Barcelo

THE Associated Labor Unions (ALU) on Tuesday urged the House of Representatives to legislate a P150 acrossthe-board daily wage recovery increase for all private-sector workers this Labor Day.

131 LGUs in calamity state

DOLE advises employers to adopt 4-day workweek

By Charles Dantes and Vito Barcelo

SOME 131 local government units have declared a state of calamity as the country continues to grapple with the effects of the El Niño phenomenon.

The Department of Labor and Employment likewise advised employers they may opt to shift to a four-day workweek to alleviate the inconvenience be -

ing experienced by employees due to the scorching heat.

The Department of Education, on the other hand, sent a letter to President Marcos citing a more “aggressive” return to the April-May school break.

Task Force El Niño spokesperson and Presidential Communications Office

Assistant Secretary Joey Villarama

said the LGUs currently under a state of calamity include Occidental Mindoro, Antique, Sultan Kudarat, Basilan, Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao Del Norte, and South Cotabato.

“These LGUs are all over the country,” he said.

Citing data from the Department of

China vessels damage PCG ship with water cannons

By Vince Lopez, Rey Requejo

CHINA

fired water cannons at two

Coast

ough Shoal, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela said Tuesday. “This damage serves as evidence of the forceful water pressure used by the

China Coast Guard in their harassment of the Philippine vessels,” he said.

“Despite the harassment and provocative actions of the Chinese Coast Guard, both the PCG and BFAR vessels stood their ground and continued their

PROMISE FULFILLED.

President Marcos led the inauguration of the Malitubog-Maridagao Irrigation Project Stage II (MMIP II) in Pikit, Cotabato. The MMIP II aims to provide irrigation to more than 10,000 hectares of farmland in Cotabato and Maguindanao.

More than 4,000 families are expected to benefit, including former Moro Islamic Liberation Front combatants. PCO

near Panatag

maritime patrol. They were not deterred and will persist in carrying out their legitimate operations to support Filipino fishermen and ensure their safety,” Tarriela added.

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Marcos directed concerned agencies to lead the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), citing the need to adapt to new technologies.

In a statement, the labor group said the Senate has already passed a bill providing for a P100-daily increase for minimum wage earners. It added that passing House Bill 7871 or the Wage Recovery Act filed by party-list Trade Union Congress of the

amid technological advancements.

“We are not teaching them to be engineers, AI engineers. We’re not teaching them to be blockchain engineers. We’re teaching them how to use the system that we have provided. That, I think, we have to be clear about that,” President Marcos said.

By Charles Dantes

By Maricel V. Cruz

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Tuesday said the House of Representatives is working on changes in the Rice Tariffication Law to bring down the price of staple by P10-15 per kilo.

He told reporters in an interview that the House of Representatives is targeting to reduce the retail price of rice to P30 per kilo, from the present P40-45 to more than P50.

He said he would ask President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to certify the proposed amendments as urgent so these could be enacted as soon as possible.

“We are doing this because the President said we have to find ways to lower the price of rice. So, what we

are targeting is that by June, we should bring the price of rice down by at least P10 or even P15, which is close to P30 pesos per kilo,” he said.

The President also said his administration will do this “by having the NFA (National Food Authority) bring to the market affordable rice so citizens can buy at an affordable price of P30. These are the amendments that we can speed up.”

He added that the House would coordinate with the Office of the President on the proposed amendments.

Romualdez asked the Senate to work on similar changes in the law.

“This is what our President really wants: to lower the price of our rice for the people. That’s our announcement because our Committee on Agriculture

“Don’t teach the theory that goes on behind it, but just teach what it is that they need to use the AI. That’s the whole point of AI, you just talk, that’s where we want to President Marcos

Coast Guard vessels

Philippine

Guard vessels, causing damage to one of them, during a patrol near Scarbor-

Martin G. Romualdez announces

the House will work to amend the Rice Tariffication Act to allow the National Food Authority to sell rice to the public at affordable prices. He made the disclosure during an ambush interview with members of the media.

PAGCOR posts

42% surge in Q1 income to P25.2 billion

THE Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) today said its total income for the first quarter of 2024 has reached Php25.24 billion, a 42.57% increase compared with the same period last year.

The three-month earnings put the state gaming firm on track to reach the Php100 billion annual income for the year, which would be a first in the 40year history of the state gaming firm, according to PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco.

“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,” Mr. Tengco said.

PAGCOR’s net operating income after expenses during the quarter stands at Php 18.99 billion, which is 54.22% higher than the January-March 2023 figure of Php12.32 billion.

Gaming operations accounted for the bulk of Ql revenues with Php22.29 billion. Of this amount, 43.46% or Php9.69 billion came from the E-

Games sector (eBingo, eGames and Bingo grantees) while licensed casinos (integrated resorts) brought in Php8.04 billion (36.06%).

However, revenues from PAGCOR-run casinos under the Casino Filipino brand continued to slide, earning Php3.7 billion or 16.62% of the 1« quarter total. This is down from the 20.68% share it contributed to PAGCOR’s revenues in 2023.

Offshore gaming operations for its part contributed Php860.89 million or 3.86% of the 2024 1» quarter total gaming income.

“As we said earlier, the E-games sector will be our major source of gaming revenues this year and in the next few years as innovation and technological integration allows the sector to offer more excitement and convenience to gamers,” Mr. Tengco said.

Agriculture, Villarama said the El Niño phenomenon has so far caused P4.39 billion worth of damage to 77,731 hectares of agricultural lands.

For his part, Labor Undersecretary Benjo Benavidez said shifting to a fourday workweek is not mandatory but an option and prerogative of companies.

He said this aims to reduce anxiety, stress and burnout of workers due to extreme hot weather.

“The four-day workweek is a flexible work arrangement. Flexible work arrangements are the prerogative and one of the options of our employers, in consultation with their employees” Benavidez said.

“If this will ensure the safety of the employees and their productivity will be maintained or improved, then why not?” he added.

He said the government is already implementing mandatory occupational safety and health standards under a department order and the law.

As for the school calendar, DepEd

spokesperson Francis Bringas said: “In response to the recent clamor for a more immediate reversion to the April-May school break, the department has already submitted a letter to the Office of the President presenting other options, including a more aggressive alternative ending school year 2024 to 2025 in March 2025.”

“In the meantime, we respectfully appeal to the committee to allow the President time to study the options carefully,” he added. DepEd earlier set an initial five-year timeline to fully transition to the old

academic calendar, where classes start in June and end in March.

The unusually hot weather in the country was expected to last until midMay, the state weather bureau said as extreme heat scorched Southeast Asia in recent days.

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

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

As this developed, defense heads of the Philippines, the United States, Japan and Australia will meet tomorrow for security talks in Hawaii following the conduct of their joint maritime drills in the West Philippine Sea.

The US Defense Department said Philippine defense secretary Gilberto Teodoro will sit down with his counterparts, namely: Lloyd Austin of the US, Kihara Minoru of Japan and Richard Marles of Australia for their second trilateral ministerial defense meeting.

Their meeting will be presided over by Austin who will also attend the US Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) Change of Command, the US Defense Department said in an advisory.

Tarriela said that the China coast guard vessel first bombarded the BRP Bankaw with water; and when the BRP Bagacay approached, it was blasted by two Chinese ships which resulted in damage to the ship, including to its railing and canopy.

A 380-m floating barrier has also been installed by the China Coast Guard to block the entrance of Scarborough Shoal or Bajo de Masinloc.

This development came after the recent Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) among Filipino, American, Japanese and Australian forces in the West Philippine Sea in an apparent show of force amid China’s aggression in the disputed South China Sea.

The US Defense Department said the four defense chiefs will meet again to “discuss ways to deepen defense and security ties among the four countries.”

“Secretary Austin will travel to Hawaii as the United States, together with allies and partners, continues to deliver historic momentum toward a shared regional vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific,” it added.

President Marcos, US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida earlier met at the White House for a historic trilateral meeting, where they formalized military partnership amid developments at sea.

They said their nations’ Coast Guards will collaborate even further within the next year “to improve interoperability and advance maritime security and safety.”

The three leaders also said they will advance their defense trilateral cooperation through combined naval training and exercises among themselves with other partners.

Meanwhile, Australia has recently been more active in engaging with Indo-Pacific nations as it shares the Philippines’ concerns, likewise a maritime nation, over the situation at sea.

support battery charging mechanisms.

The Chief Executive asked Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla to focus on supporting the acquisition of EVs through commercial fleets like government or private company cars and public transportation fleets.

President Marcos also mandated streamlining financial schemes for easier acquisition of EV fleets.

In 2023, the President said he would like to see at least 50 percent of EVs on public roads by 2040, as part of an agreement with the United Nations to lower gas emissions in the Philippines.

“If we aim to fulfill our pledge to the Paris Agreement, we need to boost the share of electric vehicles in the total projected vehicle fleet nationwide. The government aims to increase the share of electric vehicles to 10 percent, or hopefully 50 percent by 2040,” the President stated will hold these hearings every day to insert these amendments so that we can have a lower price of rice for everyone,” he said He explained that the amendments would include tariff rates, taxes and the expanded authority of the NFA to purchase palay from farmers.

The House leader pointed out that reducing the price of rice “is a priority of the President.”

Philippines (TUCP) would alleviate the workers’ plight due to the rising cost of basic commodities.

“For 35 years since the last legislated wage increase in 1989, labor productivity in the Philippines increased exponentially, while minimum wages stagnated or even declined in some regions. Where is the social justice guaranteed by our Constitution, which provides for the right of labor to its just share in the fruits of production?” ALU president Michael Democrito Mendoza said.

The group argued that a legislated wage increase is long overdue in the face of the inutility of the Regional Wage Boards, citing its studies on the consumer price index. This study showed that the last legislated wage increase fixing all regional minimum wages at P89 in 1989 is merely equivalent to P609 today.

“With P610 as the highest daily minimum wage for Metro Manila workers and all other regional wages averag-

“We share in the urgency because you know that our dear President does not want our Filipino people, the consumers, and of course the rice buyers to suffer. There should be a proper price of rice that everyone can afford,” Romualdez said.

As this developed, Quezon Rep. Mark Enverga, chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food, agreed on the need to revisit the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL) to enhance its effectiveness and responsiveness to the changing demands of stakeholders in the rice industry.

ing just P440 daily, it’s as if minimum wage-earning workers have been ‘running in place’ on a treadmill for 35 years, as far as their economic compensation is concerned,” ALU said.

Meanwhile, ALU advocacy officer Mark Villena said the average annual income earned by minimum-wage workers grew only by two percent despite national labor productivity marking at least 52-percent growth over 23 years.

The labor group added that current minimum wages do not even reach their region’s monthly poverty threshold for a family of five.

“Minimum wage families experience poverty as their household budgets fall short by as much as P3,200 monthly, on the average, for essential expenditures like food, fuel, housing, education, and healthcare,” Villena said.

Meanwhile, more than 4,000 job opportunities await Filipino applicants abroad on the Labor Day job fair to be held at Robinsons Galleria in Quezon City, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).

Moreover, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is also or-

Enverga expressed his stance during a briefing led by Department of Agriculture (DA) officials, where the committee sought insights into the RTL’s impact, particularly on rice farmers and the broader agricultural sector, five years after its enactment.

In his opening statement, Enverga emphasized the necessity of the review to ensure that the law effectively addresses the challenges and opportunities facing rice farmers and the agricultural sector as a whole.

“The gains and pains of Republic Act

ganizing several job fairs in 96 areas, involving 1,901 participating employers and offering 154,470 jobs as part of the May 1 celebration.

The DMW said 18 licensed recruitment agencies will participate in the activity with over 4,000 job offerings.

“With at least one job fair and Kadiwa per province, more workers and job seekers and even consumers will have access to employment opportunities and affordable products as DOLE conducts these activities on May 1,” Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said in a statement.

Production workers, customer service representatives, cashiers, baggers, sales clerks, laborers, carpenters, painters, microfinance officers, financial advisers, service crew, cooks, waiters, truck drivers, nurses, property consultants, and tutors are among the top vacancies this year.

The DOLE advised job seekers to prepare their application requirements such as a resumé or curriculum vitae, a diploma, a transcript of records, and a certificate of employment for those formerly employed.

No. 11203, the Rice Tariffication Law, has always been one of the main topics or issues in the agriculture sector,” Enverga pointed out. He also said, “We cannot deny the fact that the law has accorded millions of rice farmers the much-needed assistance. However, the law is always challenged when it comes to rice supply and rice prices.”

The RTL, which came into effect on March 5, 2019, replaced the previous quantitative restrictions on imported

with

and

stressed that the government’s initiative to acquaint MSMEs with AI systems is geared towards enhancing the ease of doing business, striving to make it “as easy as possible, as simple as possible” for them.

In 2022, MSMEs constituted 99.59 percent of total establishments in the Philippines, contributing 65.10 percent to total employment. This underscored their significant role in job creation and livelihood enhancement in the country.

The move comes amidst a global push towards digital transformation, with AI emerging as a pivotal tool for businesses seeking to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and remain competitive in an increasingly digital marketplace.

petitive Enhancement Fund (RCEF), funded by the tariff revenues. Despite its intentions, critics of the RTL argued that the law has not succeeded in reducing the cost of rice. They asserted that it has instead exacerbated the challenges faced by local farmers, as cheaper imports flood the market. Calls for amendments to address these issues have gained momentum, with both government officials and private stakeholders advocating revisions to enhance the law’s responsiveness to public needs.

Herbosa admits knowledge of gifts drug companies give to physicians

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

HEALTH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa on Tuesday claimed innocence of the alleged multi-level marketing schemes in the medical industry, but admitted awareness of the perks being given to doctors by pharmaceutical firms.

IN BRIEF

DSWD lauds Palace fiat on collaboration vs. poverty

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Tuesday welcomed Malacañang’s issuance of a memorandum circular directing all government agencies and instrumentalities to support the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) Program.

“As chair of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Zero Hunger, the DSWD expresses its gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr for recognizing the significance of the initiatives of the EPAHP Program,” DSWD Assistant Secretary for Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG) Irene Dumlao said in a statement.

Dumlao, who is also the DSWD spokesperson, said the circular will fast track the implementation of anti-hunger initiatives and ensure that these efforts will achieve results with the whole government working together and sharing resources.

tion is counted, and quota is made, the multi-level marketing, I just learned it now,” Herbosa said.

Dr. Luis Go, chief executive officer of Bell-Kenz Pharma, belied allegations that his company is a multi-level marketing firm, adding that their medicines were being sold at lower cost compared to other brands.

Senator Raffy Tulfo who earlier grilled Herbosa on the same issue, confronted the Health chief on the alleged pyramiding in which doctors were recruited under their program to prescribe the products of their drug firm.

“But this scheme wherein prescrip-

Herbosa made the admission during the first hearing of the Senate Committee on Health about the reported “prescription-for-sale” by some doctors in exchange for luxury gifts like Rolex watches and Lexus cars on top of hefty amount of money as share from earnings of a drug firm, He said he was only aware of foreign trips and meals in expensive restaurants sponsored by drug companies.

He asserted that Bell-Kenz medicines enable patients to save about P128 per day equivalent to P27,000 to P55,000 per year depending on the brand.

“The Bell-Kenz board is a collective of medical doctors that are dedicated to give affordable public health care. The ethos of the company is patient-centered care. We want to ensure transparency,”

said Go, a cardiologist. He also told the Senate panel chaired by Senator Christopher Go that they give doctors commissions in the form of cash or high-end cars and other luxury gifts, but not Rolex and Lexus in exchange for prescribing Bell-Kenz medicines. He lamented they have been a victim of misinformation and negative propaganda over the past several days.

“I am here to refute the baseless allegation. I unequivocally state that Bell-Kenz is a law-abiding company adhering to the rules of the Food and Drug Administration, the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Philippine Medical Association, and other relevant governing bodies,” he added.

DENR launches program to address plastic wastes in mining sites

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) has launched a nationwide, long-term program meant to address the problem on plastic waste in mining sites and nearby environs.

Dubbed PLASTIKalikasan, the program was rolled out with the help of stakeholders and serves as a model for mining and mineral processing compa-

nies to collect, recycle, reuse, and dispose plastic waste.

The program is set to be integrated into a company’s annual implementation of the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program (EPEP) and ISO 14001:2015, allocated with appropriate and sufficient budget, the DENR said in a statement.

“At the DENR, our thrust on climate change adaptation and mitigation is at the forefront of our efforts. PLASTIKalikasan is not just a one-day clean-

LTFRB: Unconsolidated jeepneys to be considered colorum, illegal

JEEPNEYS which have not joined cooperatives will be considered illegal or ‘colorum’ starting today, May 1. Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) chairmanTeofilo Guadiz III issued this warning saying there would be no more extension of the deadline for franchise consolidation after the April 30 deadline despite the ongoing protests of transport groups against the modernization program.

Guadiz said that the LTFRB had given the jeepney operators ample time to consolidate. He added that agency’s offices had been open until 10 p.m. Tuesday to accommodate the expected increase in the number of jeepney drivers and operators who wanted to beat the deadline.

“A lot of these hesitant operators decided to come to the LTFRB office at the last minute to file their petition for the accreditation of their cooperative,” Guadiz said.

“Technically they are already colorum, but there is such a thing as a day in court. We will give them that benefit. We will give them that opportunity,” he added.

The LTFRB has said its enforcers will issue traffic citation tickets to drivers caught using “colorum” vehicles, and that a penalty of one-year suspension of their driver’s license will be imposed.

“Colorum” vehicles will also be impounded and the operator slapped with a P50,000-penalty, he said.

Maricel V. Cruz

up project. It is a cornerstone of our strategy to build resilience against the impacts of climate change,” DENR Secretary Maria Antonio Yulo-Loyzaga said in a message delivered by Undersecretary Jonas Leones.

The annual EPEP outlines the methods and procedures a company will adopt to achieve its environmental protection and management goals throughout the lifespan of the mine. Under the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 and its revised implementing rules and regulations, the

EPEP should be prepared and approved before the commencement of mining.

The DENR said 15 MGB regional offices spearheaded community cleanup drives during the Earth Day 2024 celebration to launch the PLASTIKalikasan program.

Together with MGB offices, over 7,000 participants from mining contractors and permit holders, as well as volunteers from communities, local government, and non-government organizations joined the activity.

Legislative inquiry sought on influx of Chinese nationals in Cagayan

A LAWMAKER on Tuesday sought a congressional inquiry into the Bureau of Immigration (BI) following the reported entry of over a thousand Chinese nationals in the country some of whom are now students of a school in the Cagayan Valley where three Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites have been identified. In a privilege speech, Manila Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. said he was alarmed with the “large and unprecedented” number of Chinese nationals that had chosen to study in the province of Cagayan as the Cagayan Valley (Region 2) hosts three sites American troops can access under the EDCA between the Philippines and the United States.

“These are the Cagayan North International Airport in Lal-lo and the Cami-

lo Osias Naval Station in Santa Ana, both in Cagayan, and Camp Melchor dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela,” warned the legislator, who said that the extraordinary influx of Chinese workers, businessmen, tourists, and students “should not be taken for granted.”

Abante said it was suspicious and anomalous “that these foreigners obtained Filipino birth certificates, driver’s licenses, UMID cards, passports and even accreditations and auxiliary membership in the armed services, particularly in the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).”

“We should take this matter seriously. While these Chinese nationals are ‘students,’ their influx and their choice of school location should awaken and alarm us,” Abante noted.

Signed on April 19 by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, MC 47 also encourages all local government units (LGUs) to support the implementation of anti-hunger and poverty programs of the government.

“All national government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations and government financial institutions (GFIs), are hereby directed, and all LGUs are hereby encouraged, to extend full support and cooperation to the Task Force on Zero Hunger relative to the implementation of the EPAHP Program,” the MC read. Maricel V. Cruz

Ayala sponsors disaster preparedness training

AYALA Foundation in partnership with the provincial government of Ilocos Norte has conducted the “Maging Handa: Upskilling Disaster Responders” training to equip disaster responders with the necessary skills in saving human lives and property. The two-day training saw the participation of different disaster responding agencies namely, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the City/ Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils, and the Philippine National Police.

Ilocos Norte Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos expressed her appreciation to the Ayala Foundation for disaster preparedness program that improves the skills of disaster responders and highlighted the importance of the training.

“Always have the mindset of ‘always being prepared’ so that when disaster happens, you already know what to do and you are here to also be able to share everything that you have learned to your community so that there is a ripple effect to all because we do not want disasters to happen but we always want to be prepared”, the Vice Governor said.

Indian national denied entry at Davao airport

AN INDIAN national was prevented from entering the country after the foreigner presented a fake return ticket at the Davao International Airport (DIA).

The foreigner, identified as Gagandeep Singh, arrived from Singapore aboard a Scoot airlines flight. He aroused suspicion when officers discovered discrepancies in his travel documents, including a fake return ticket.

“Mr. Singh’s presentation of a falsified document suggests an intention to reside illegally in the Philippines beyond the permissible duration,” Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco said.

The BI chief said the Indian intends to illegally stay in the country by misrepresenting travel documents.

Singh was suspected to be associated with an illegal lending ring, further heightening concerns about his entry into the country.

“We welcome legitimate tourists to the country, but those who present fake documents with suspicious intentions will be denied,” Tansingco said.

Singh is set to be deported and his name included in the BI’s blacklist. Vito Barcelo

HOUSE PRESSER. Five members of the House of Representatives, namely (from left) Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo of Lanao del Norte, Cheeno Miguel Almario of Davao Oriental, Margarita Nograles of PBA party-list, Rodge Gutierrez of 1Rider party-list, and Zia Alonto Adiong of Lanao del Sur answer questions from reporters during a press conference in Congress. Ver Noveno

WEAPON READY, AIM…Filipino and American soldiers practice with an anti-tank missile launcher at the continuation of the bilateral Exercise Balikatan 2024, dubbed the largest shoulder-to shoulder war drill between the two countries.

TUNA CAPITAL. A fishport in Gen. Santos City, reputedly the “tuna capital” of the Philippines, teems with huge tunas, a daily bounty from the sea. Joven Cagande

Bonifacio in Manila. Norman Cruz

Makati yellow card holders get free PET-CT scan

By Joel E. Zurbano

MAKATI City-based yellow card holders and their dependents under 18 years old can avail free digital PET-CT scan services at Makati Life Medical Center by the third quarter of the year.

Mayor Abigail Binay said the first diagnostic machine in the country will enhance image clarity for early detection and treatment of cancer, heart disease, and neurological conditions.

“Acquiring a digital PET-CT scanner is part of our efforts to ensure that Makatizens have access to the best healthcare technologies available,” Binay said.

“In Makati, our goal is to provide residents access to the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies. Advanced medical care should be accessible to everyone,” she added.

The PET-CT uMI 550 uses advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) and enhances diagnostic precision by reconstructing images from comprehensive total-body data. It allows for sharper, more accurate visuals, which leads to better-informed medical decisions.

The 360-bed Makati Life Medical Center will be fully operational by the end of the year.

The hospital will house several specialized centers that feature the latest in medical technology and contemporary facilities. These are dedicated to prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation across various specialties.

The hospital will have a cancer center equipped with a linear accelerator for radiation therapies, as well as a cardiac center that offers services like cardiac catheterization for angiography, open heart surgeries, and organ transplants.

Additionally, the physical rehabilitation medical center will utilize robotics technology to treat disorders affecting joints and soft tissues.

Binay said the city’s yellow card holders will soon enjoy all these services and procedures for free.

Makati Life Medical Center also offers annual physical examinations for yellow card holders age 40 and above. These go beyond the basic health check-up, laboratory, and imaging tests by including further screenings such as metabolic, lipid, liver, and kidney profiles, among others.

Bill seeks to protect privacy of crime, self-harm victims

By Maricel V. Cruz

AMEMBER of the House of Representatives seeks legal protection for victims of crime, accident, or self-harm by outlawing the often unnecessary and unauthorized broadcasting of images and videos related to their deaths.

Camiguin Rep. Jurdin Jesus Romualdo filed House Bill 10277, also known as the “Victims’ Privacy Protection Act,” that prohibits media exposure for the injured party and the circumstances behind their demise without consent from their family.

“The proliferation of digital media and the ease with which content can be shared on social media platforms have led to a significant rise in privacy concerns, especially for individuals in sensitive situations,” Romualdo said.

He said the unauthorized dissemina-

tion of images or videos of such victims “not only violates the privacy and dignity of the individuals depicted, but can also cause undue stress to their families.”

The Camiguin lawmaker cited laws in the United States that criminalize the unauthorized capture and dissemination of images of persons receiving medical assistance from first responders. For instance, he said “Cathy’s Law” was enacted in New Jersey after a photograph of an accident victim, Cathy Bates, was posted on Facebook by a

first responder before her family had been notified.

Romualdo said while his bill “aligns with the general principles of these foreign laws, it also respects the nuances of the Philippine legal context.”

“It seeks to balance the right to information and freedom of expression with the right to privacy, ensuring that the dignity of victims and their families is preserved,” he said.

Romualdo added that Republic Act 10173, or the Data Privacy Act of 2012, sets standards for protecting personal information, and his proposed law “reinforces those standards by addressing a specific category of privacy breaches.”

The lawmaker stressed that his bill provides for a clear legal protection to victims that “is vital in upholding human dignity and ensuring that the rights of the most vulnerable are not overlooked in the digital age.”

Canada renews bid to help drive PH economy

CANADIAN Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman recently pledged to firm up his nation’s commitment to help “drive economic growth and empower communities.”

The envoy made the remarks during a visit to the mine site of Filminera Resources Corporation (Filminera) and the processing plant of Phil Gold Processing & Refining Corp. (PhilGold) operating inside the Masbate Gold Project (MGP) site. Hartman cited his own country’s contribution to responsible and sustainable mining in the Philippines, as being practiced by their local partners

running mining and milling operations in Masbate province.

The ambassador, along with Embassy of Canada’s Senior Trade Commissioner Guy Boileau and top officials of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) toured the mining and milling operations plus the vast environmental programs and various social programs being implemented by the two firms operating inside the Masbate Gold Project site in Aroroy, Masbate. They visited an experimental farm surrounding the mine site of two min-

ing firms in Masbate, spanning hundreds of hectares, including the use of waste rocks which were assembled and fashioned into the shape of a mountain.

More than 28,000 forest and crop trees, 23,000 intercropping trees,17,000 cover crops, and 400 bamboos have since been planted –since the trial farm project was started in November 2015.

The farm has been planted with high value crops such as dragon fruit, coffee, pineapple, among others – in a bid to discover which of these crops will most feasible to breed for future livelihood.

IN BRIEF

SBMA backs workplace reintegration of parolees

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT—The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Parole and Probation Administration recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement that supports the reintegration of probationers, parolees, and pardonees into the workplace.

The MOA was signed between SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and PPA Administrator, lawyer Bienvenido O. Benitez Jr., at the SBMA Corporate Boardroom. According to Aliño, the workplace reintegration program is a silver lining for former persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).

“If you are a parolee, probationer, or pardonee, people will tend to look down on you because of the social stigma from your past actions. I honestly think though, that they should not be denied their right to work and provide financial support to their families,” he said.

Aliño added that this stigma has hindered most of the aforementioned from reintegrating into a workplace, as they are usually shunned by companies due to their past records.

Meanwhile, Benitez expressed his gratitude to the SBMA for supporting the PPA’s workplace reintegration program, as the agency is the first among the governmentowned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) that supported the project.

Butch Gunio

DBM backs expansion of HPV vax program

THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) is backing health experts’ call to expand the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program in a bid to significantly reduce cervical cancer cases in the Philippines.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman welcomed the idea of the Department of Health to expand its immunization program for women and girls against the HPV. It should be noted that more than 95 percent of cervical cancers are caused by HPV infections.

“As a woman, I deeply understand how important it is to get protected against diseases like cervical cancer, which is a common threat among women,” Pangandaman said.

“Our fellow Filipinas can be assured that we are supportive of the need to have an additional HPV immunization budget,” she added.

This year, a total of P537 million has been allocated for the HPV vaccination program under the 2024 General Appropriations Act.

“We are in the midst of preparing our proposed national budget for 2025. So, we will look into that,” Pangandaman said.

Earlier, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said he will propose a higher budget for HPV vaccination to cover girls at their pre-puberty stage, regardless of their income class in the society.

Before they become sexually active, it is crucial for girls aged nine to 14 to receive HPV immunization, he said. Darwin G. Amojelar

By Roy C. Tomandao

PEEKUP, a new ride-hailing service in the country, disclosed they have already approved 1,000 driver partners.

PeekUp CEO David Almarinez said an additional 6,000 drivers are currently undergoing approval processes. Aiming to revolutionize the transportation industry, PeekUp is not only focusing on expanding its driver base but also on securing a strong user following.

Almarinez said the company is offering numerous promotions to attract and retain both drivers and passengers.

Among these are signing bonuses for driver partners aimed at providing them with additional support as they cater to passengers.

Passengers can likewise look forward to discount vouchers and referral bonuses as part of PeekUp’s efforts to enhance the overall user experience. Setting an ambitious target, PeekUp aims to acquire 1 million users by the end of the year.

THE Department of Education (DepEd) on Tuesday announced a new policy that rationalizes public school teachers’ workload by defining ancillary tasks and assignments that can be given to them.

This is a follow-up to the earlier issuance that removed administrative tasks from teachers, further allowing educators to devote their time to classroom teaching.

The DepEd policy specified that ancillary tasks must be categorized under the following: Curriculum Planning, Curriculum Delivery and Pedagogy, Assessment of Learner’s Progress, and Homeroom Guidance and Management.

Meanwhile, tasks that do not fall under the specified teaching-related and ancillary tasks will be delegated to school administrative personnel.

The issuance also indicates the guidelines and procedures on the appropriate teaching load to be given to teachers, as well as payment of teaching overload for those who will exceed the prescribed number of hours.

Payment of teaching overload will be made quarterly. However, in case of insufficient funds, teaching overload hours will be converted to earned vacation service credit provided under the existing DepEd policy. Ratziel San Juan

Almarinez said that apart from business objectives, PeekUp is also dedicated to promoting the cultural values of Filipinos, particularly their reputation for being hospitable and accommodating. New DepEd workload: More classroom time

TOURISM LEADERS. Skal International Makati holds its 2nd General Membership Meeting, hosted by Ayala Museum and Ayala Foundation Inc. Shown in photo are Skal board members headed by Skal President Capt. Stanley Ng.

PeekUp CEO David Almarinez

OPINION

Senator Saguisag, my hero

“IT MEANS a great deal to those who are oppressed to know that they are not alone. Never let anyone tell you that what you are doing is insignificant.” –Desmond Tutu.

This short adage by anti-apartheid activist Bishop Desmund Tutu might be the guiding principle of Rene Saguisag who dedicated his whole life, up to the very end, in the defense of the rights of the poor and the downtrodden.

Reading an account published in a newspaper, Saguisag narrated how he started as a human rights defender.

According to him, when he arrived back [in Manila] from his studies abroad, he signed up with a big corporation in the country. But on his way down [to their offices], he hitched a ride with a fellow Bedan who was going to the BIR.

When we got to the Supreme Court, he happened to see a rally led by a good friend from the Ateneo.

Saguisag bade goodbye to his friend and without hesitation joined “my kind of people.” So even before he started with Ayala Corporation that very same day, he tendered a letter of resignation.

“If I had stayed with Ayala, maybe I would be in some plutocratic enclave.” he said in retrospect.

True enough, Saguisag never looked back. He devoted every moment of his life until the very end as a human rights defender, representing the poor and the oppressed.

Saguisag played a pivotal role in establishing the Movement of Attorneys for the Advancement of Brotherhood, Nationalism, and Integrity (MABINI), a collective of legal professionals dedicated to assisting victims of human rights violations.

Among his esteemed colleagues in this endeavor were Joker Arroyo, Jejomar Binay, Fulgencio Factoran Jr, Ed Araullo, and others.

Throughout the two decades of the Marcos’ dictatorship, Saguisag tirelessly navigated between various courts, advocating for human rights victims who lacked the means to afford legal representation.

Often observed with bulging folders containing his clients’ cases and driving a well-worn vehicle, he predominantly handled pro-bono cases, driven solely by his compassion for humanity.

“For him expertise in law was a means to serve the poor and disenfranchised, and he provided free legal aid to those in need. We are grateful that, in his final months, he was able to spend time with relatives, friends, and countless supporters. He passed away knowing that he was much loved and respected,” the Saguisag family said.

As a senator, he was the personification of simplicity and moral rectitude.

He never sought the spotlight for its sake nor tried to perpetuate himself in power, pledging to serve just a single term in the Senate -- which he did.

He also had a wicked sense of humor.

I saw that personally as we were fellow professors in the San Beda Graduate School of Law and co-convenor of the Free Leila De Lima Committee.

To the end, he was passionate for a just rule of law.

Despite his brief tenure as a legislator, Saguisag was very productive, authoring pieces like the Ombudsman Act and the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, both enacted in 1989.

Saguisag devoted every moment of his life until the very end as a human rights defender, representing the poor and the oppressed

The latter would help fight corruption, while the latter is more positive in mandating all public servants to remain accountable to the people and work with responsibility, integrity, competence, loyalty, act with patriotism and justice, lead modest lives, and uphold public interest over personal interest.

Nov. 8, 2007, tragedy struck, when Saguisag and his wife Dulce met a car accident, seriously injuring the former senator and killing the latter.

It was painful watching him recover from that, but he would soldier on for another 17 years, diminished physically but never as a statesman, where he stood out, luminous in his integrity and love for country.

Senator Saguisag passed away on April 24, 2024, at the age of 84. His last public appearance occurred on April 9, the Day of Valor, during a ceremony at the Bantayog ng mga Bayani in Quezon City.

A wise man once said: “I think a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people.”

If we go by this saying, Rene Saguisag is a hero in every sense of the word.

He is my hero.

Website: tonylavina.com Facebook: Tony La Viña or tonylavs X: tonylavs

First ever Dumaguete Litfest: Huge hit

“EVERYONE is welcome!”

This was the heartwarming invitation of the organizers of the first Dumaguete Literary Festival, a long-cherished dream that came true for many writers and readers in the city when it was staged last week.

The festival, held April 26-28, featured literary panels, readings, performances, and screenings with all events free and open to the general public.

A special event was held April 30: “May Day Eve: A Night with Nick Joaquin,” a homage to the National Artist for Literature with a reading of perhaps his most famous short story, along with “incantations, stories, poetry, dance, and film.” Touted as a “literary feast for the literary Dumaguetnon,” the litfest brought together people from all over the region and beyond, in a “celebration of all things reading and writing and art-making in Negros Island and Siquijor, and Philippine literature and culture in general.”

The event was directed by Ian Rosales Casocot with festival co-director Gayle Acar, the entrepreneur behind Libreria Books, which spearheaded the event with the Buglas Writers Guild. Government agencies and private companies partnered with them to stage the event, which was meant to mark National Literature Month and the 75th anniversary of the Charter of Dumaguete.

On the significance of holding the event in Dumaguete, Casocot said: “The city has always been considered by many writers as Philippine literature’s ‘home-

town.’ It hosts, after all, the oldest—and continuing—creative writing workshop in Asia, which has molded many generations of Filipino writers.

“It was home to the late National Artist for Literature Edith Lopez Tiempo and the late National Artist for Cinema Eddie Romero. As a setting, it has inspired many literary works, from novels to poetry, from essays to plays. And it continues to be home to many notable authors and artists.”

At the Duma Litfest, the keynote speech on “The Future of Literature” was given by acclaimed novelist Dean Francis Alfar.

—“—

Here’s wishing the best for Dumaguete, its literary scene, and all its creative people!

He traced the evolution of stories and storytelling, from the need of people in prehistoric times to share knowledge about food, danger, and what was needed to survive, to today’s world of fake news, “dueling narratives,” and propaganda, as well as digital forms of storytelling.

So what is the future of our literature?

According to Alfar: “It’s you and what you imagine and create and publish and throw out there,” in whatever form it may take – poetry, fiction, CNF, scripts.

CDiligence needed

OULD be a research vessel, this Shen Kuo, which passed through Itbayat and Basco in Batanes then began ‘‘loitering’’ in waters off Catanduanes before sailing southward off Mapanas in Northern Samar last week.

But the way it sailed through that distance, which spans the Philippine Rise east of Cagayan Valley, and not responding at all to attempts by Philippine military officials to contact it, quickly raises nagging, but legitimate questions.

Particularly since Chinese vessels are often seen blocking or harassing Philippine vessels on humanitarian missions in the West Philippine Sea within the country’s 200-mile exclusive economic zone.

The Philippine Rise, a submerged extinct volcanic ridge at 16.5°N, 124.7°E off the coast of Luzon, with the size of about 250 kms in diameter, rises over 2,000 meters above the sea floor, from below 5,000 meters below sea level to above 3,000 meters below

sea level.

Its strategic location southeast of Taiwan, east of Luzon, and west of American territory of Guam make it a feature of geopolitical importance.

In May 2017, the feature was designated by the Philippines as a “protected food supply exclusive zone” prohibiting mining and oil exploration in the Philippine Plateau.

Much of the Philippine Rise is beyond 320 nautical miles, but it was granted to the Philippines because it was scientifically determined that the undersea formation is a natural extension of the country’s continental shelf.

We agree with security observers that research vessels are the safest way to legitimize espionage operations

In the extended continental shelf, no one may undertake activities for exploring and exploiting mineral and other non-living resources of the seabed and subsoil without the express consent of the Philippines, which also has the exclusive right to authorize

TODAY, as expected, various labor groups, particularly those identified with the militant ones, are likely to hold marches and rallies in Metro Manila and other urban centers to demand wage hikes amid higher prices of basic goods and services.

They have the right to ask government to protect their interests and welfare.

Here are the pertinent provisions of the 1987 Constitution (Section 18, Article 2): “The State affirms labor as a primary social economic force. It shall protect the right of workers and promote their welfare.”

Further on, in Section 3 Article 13, the fundamental law says that labor “shall be entitled to security of tenure, humane conditions of work, and a living wage. They shall also participate in policy and decision-making processes affecting their rights and benefits as may be provided by law.”

Labor groups are therefore well within their right to ask for a legislated wage increase since the Regional Wage Boards composed of representatives from government, employers and labor groups have been able to grant only paltry wage increases that workers insist do not allow them to cope with hard times.

The labor sector is now asking the government anew to grant an across-theboard hike in the daily minimum wage.

The biggest labor organization in the country, the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines, recently urged the House of Representatives to pass House Bill 7871 or the Wage Recovery Act mandating an across-the-board ₱150 wage increase for all private sector workers.

The TUCP wants legislators to heed the sentiments of economists who acted as resource persons in recent committee hearings on the wage hike proposal.

Other voices are already calling for

“It’s you rooting for yourself and working to make real what you only dreamed of. It’s you alone because writing is solitary - but it’s also you with others because literature is communal.

“It’s you creating in the now.”

Award-winning writer Sarge Lacuesta, who spoke at one of the panels, praised the city as literary space: “’Imperial Manila’—a derogatory term that our capital city often deserves—would do well not to look to the usual overseas harbors and enclaves for vibes and cues.

There are islands and shores that are much closer to our heart and should figure larger in our collective imagination.

“Case in point: Dumaguete, the smallest city in Negros Oriental, whose literary and artistic sense of self has made it a powerful center for cultural inspiration.”

Among the many writers who guested on Duma Litfest panels was Jay Ignacio,

and regulate drilling on the continental shelf for all purposes.

For 2024 alone, this is the second time a Chinese research vessel was spotted in the country’s eastern section of the country where lies the Philippine Rise, a 24-million-hectare undersea feature part of the Philippine continental shelf and is inside the country’s exclusive economic zone.

We are persuaded to agree with some defense analysts the Chinese vessels’ presence there could have something to do with an underwater survey to prepare for possible occupation of Taiwan.

Astonishingly, the Chinese Embassy in Manila has not commented on the vessels’ presence.

Batanes is just a few kilometers away from Taiwan, a United States ally that China considers as a renegade province. It is among the key sites of the US-Philippines military drills that started on April 24 and will end on May 8.

We are glad the Armed Forces of the Philippines has remained vigilant and is “monitoring any unauthorized research vessel in our maritime domain (and has) tasked nearby vessels for enhanced surveillance and reporting.”

We agree with security observers that research vessels are the safest way to legitimize espionage operations.

Labor Day

a wage hike. Social Weather Stations president Mahar Mangahas believes the minimum wage system is not working because “real wages are stagnant and not increasing.”

Economist Emmanuel Leyco slammed the argument that wage hikes kill businesses and jobs: “There is no record of closures because of wage increases. There are records of closures not because the wages increased, but because the competitiveness of certain businesses, simply, is not sustainable anymore.”

If the trade unions and federations are now asking for higher wages and more benefits, the least the government should do is to allow them to ventilate their grievances

Benjamin Velasco of the UP School of Labor and Industrial Relations said “wage increases have no impact on employment” and that “given the right set of policies we can achieve the goal of wage recovery for workers and low unemployment.” He added “the purported link between wage hikes and price hikes is grossly exaggerated, if not entirely fallacious.”

The Ateneo Policy Center avers that the current minimum wage of P610 in NCR and as low as P361 in BARMM is “clearly inadequate” to meet the needs of

National Book Award-winning writer of graphic novel Alandal, among other works. He described the event as fun and freewheeling, but very well organized.

“We were encouraged to come in tsinelas and shorts,” he told me, “as the event was meant to be celebrated Dumaguetestyle. Ren Ren Galeno (my co-panelist for the following day) and I…were picked up from the airport via traysikel and taken to our hotel. The venue was just 20 meters away on the same street.

“The dress code and the atmosphere may have been very casual, but the event was well-organized. The amount of planning and preparation by the core team of five was very apparent. Topics chosen for panel discussions for each day were interesting, and well-attended.

“I love how wonderfully local this festival is in terms of flavor. Sure, there

poor Filipinos. Given these, will our lawmakers be amenable to a legislated wage increase, or simply give way to employers’ groups that have consistently raised objections to any wage increase at all, claiming massive closures of mainly small and medium size enterprises?

The unrest among a significant section of the Filipino working class is not surprising.

The ordinary factory worker who earns the minimum wage can barely support a family.

Workers in the public transport sector threaten strikes because they bring home a measly amount owing to the continued surge in oil prices.

And workers in both the public and private sectors must invariably contend with higher prices of basic consumer goods.

If the trade unions and federations are now asking for higher wages and more benefits, the least the government should do is to allow them to ventilate their grievances. After all, Labor Day is a day for honoring the working class and recognizing their contributions to the national economy.

We join the rest of the nation in paying tribute to the Filipino working class for asserting their economic and political rights on Labor Day and keeping the Philippine economy afloat despite less than ideal economic and political circumstances.

As Filipino workers find common cause with their counterparts in other parts of the world on May Day, they actually seek to break free from the fetters of poverty and despair, and to reclaim their dignity and pride as human beings as they struggle for a just, fair and equitable society. (Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

were many guest panelists from Manila, but that’s what we were: guests. It was an honor to be there and see how well-nurtured the Dumaguete arts and literature scene is.”

The next Duma Litfest will be held on April 4-6, 2025, and hopefully this initiative will push Dumaguete closer to becoming a UNESCO City of Literature, a distinction the city is working toward. At the moment the only Southeast Asian city that’s a City of Literature is Jakarta. Here’s wishing the best for Dumaguete, its literary scene, and all its creative people! And here’s to more regional litfests, as the bedrock for the sustainability and growth of literary efforts in the country. It’s the grassroots events like these that deserve to be truly celebrated and promoted.

* * * FB and (X): @DrJennyO / Email: writerjennyo@gmail.com

Hamas prepares reply to Gaza truce offer

JERUSALEM – Hamas was studying Tuesday Israel’s offer of a 40-day truce in the war in the Gaza Strip in exchange for the release of scores of hostages held since the Palestinian militant group’s October 7 attacks.

Returning to Qatar after the latest talks in Cairo, the Hamas delegation said it would “discuss the ideas and the proposal... we are keen to respond as quickly as possible,” a Hamas source told AFP on condition of anonymity.

Egyptian sources told Al-Qahera News, a site

linked to Egyptian intelligence services, that the Hamas delegation would “return with a written response.”

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken described the truce terms as “extraordinarily generous”, while the White House asked fellow mediators Egypt and Qatar to increase pressure

on Hamas to accept the latest push to halt the nearly seven-month-old war. According to Monday night call readouts, US President Joe Biden urged the Egyptian and Qatari leaders “to exert all efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas”, calling this “the only obstacle” to securing relief for civilians in the besieged strip.

For months, Egypt, Qatar and the United States have been trying to secure a new agreement between the combatants. A one-week truce in No-

vember saw 80 Israeli hostages exchanged for 240 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. Relentless Israeli bombardment has meanwhile devastated Hamas-run Gaza, flattening much of the territory and bringing its people to the brink of famine, while threatening to unfurl into a wider regional conflict.

In the far southern city of Rafah, Palestinians despaired over the war while searching for victims of the latest strike.

“Civilian individuals with no ties

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 306 - QUEZON CITY r1c1qzn306@judiciary.gov.ph 09760960624/8660-1763

IN RE: PETITION FOR RECOGNITION OF FOREIGN DIVORCE ARNOLD L. ANSALDO, Petitioner, - versus- SPEC. PROC. CASE No. R-QZN-23-10719

CECILE ANNE C. DUYONGCO, CIVIL REGISTRAR GENERAL, PHILIPPINE STATISTICS OFFICE, and the REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES, represented by the OFFICE OF THE SOLICITOR GENERAL and ALL PERSONS/ENTITIES WHO/WHICH MA Y BE AFFECTED THEREBY, Respondents. x--------------------------------------------------------x ORDER

This is a petition filed by Arnold L. Ansaldo, through counsel, praying for the recognition of his divorce from respondent Cecile Anne C. Duyongco obtained in California, USA.

Petitioner alleges that he was married to respondent Cecile Anne C. Duyongco on February 1, 2013 in Island Palms Hotel, San Diego, California, USA. Their marriage was thereafter reported before the Philippine Consulate General of Los Angeles, California which was eventually forwarded to the Philippine Statistics Authority (formerly National Statistics Office) through the Department of Foreign Affairs, Manila. They thereafter lived together as husband and wife for seven (7) months, which was marred by constant fights that became physical at times. They exerted efforts to save the marriage through counselling, but to no avail. Petitioner went home to the Philippines sometime in September 2013. After their short-lived cohabitation as husband and wife, petitioner filed for the dissolution of their marriage before the Superior Court of California, County of San Diego, USA. The same was granted on November 7,2016. Petitioner now prays that the divorce decree be legally recognized in the Philippines.

WHEREFORE, finding the petition to be sufficient in form. And substance, let this case be set for hearing on May 8, 2024, at 1:30 in the afternoon before this Court located at Room 703, 7th Floor, Hall of Justice, Diliman, Quezon City, at which place and on which date and time, any person who has objections to the petition may appear and file his opposition thereto.

Let a copy of this Order be published, at the expense of the petitioner, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation throughout the Philippines.

Likewise, at the expense of the petitioner, let a copy of the Petition with its Annexes and this Order be furnished to the Office of the Solicitor General, Office of the City Prosecutor, Civil Registrar General, Philippine Statistics Authority, the Department of Foreign Affairs, and Cecile Anne

KYIV – NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Monday said it was “not too late” for Ukraine to win the war, despite its outmanned and outgunned military struggling in the face of Russian advances while waiting for stalled weapons deliveries from allies.

Ukrainian forces have been on the defensive for months, while Russia’s troops have steadily inched forward along the frontline.

On Monday Russia claimed to have captured a second village in as many days in eastern Ukraine, while a missile strike on the Black Sea port of Odesa killed at least four people and wounded 27.

Moscow has for weeks pressed its advantage at the front, an effort it has accelerated in recent days before crucial US weapons

reach Kyiv’s exhausted frontline forces.

“Ukraine has been outgunned for months, forced to ration its ammunition... But it’s not too late for Ukraine to prevail,” the NATO secretary general said at a press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

He said months-long delays in US military aid to Ukraine had “serious consequences on the battlefield”.

But Stoltenberg insisted that “more support is on the way”.

“Our allies are looking into what more they can do and I expect new announcements soon.

So we are working hard to meet Ukraine’s urgent needs,” he promised.

Ukraine has been dependent on Western military aid to counter Russia’s larger and more powerful army. AFP

to Hamas or any other group were struck by a rocket, torn apart,” Um Louay Masri said at a destroyed building where children were being pulled out from underneath the rubble. “Why did this occur?”

To global alarm, Israel has vowed to go after Hamas battalions in Rafah, where the majority of Gaza’s 2.4 million people have sought refuge. But Foreign Minister Israel Katz said over the weekend the government may “suspend” that operation if a truce is reached. AFP

Columbia University suspends students

NEW YORK – Columbia University, the epicenter of pro-Palestinian protests that have upended college campuses across the United States, began suspending student demonstrators on Monday after they defied an ultimatum to disperse. The move follows almost two weeks of protests against Israel’s war in Gaza that have swept through higher education institutions from coast to coast, after around 100 protesters were first arrested at Columbia on April 18. In the latest crackdown, authorities at the prestigious university in New York demanded that the protest encampment be cleared by 2:00 pm or students would face disciplinary action.

“These repulsive scare tactics mean nothing compared to the deaths of over 34,000 Palestinians,” said a statement, read out by a student at a press conference after the deadline, referring to the death toll in Gaza.

“We will not move until Columbia meets our demands or... are moved by force,” said the student, who would not give his name. AFP

Huthis claim attack on Greek vessel

DUBAI – Yemen’s Huthi rebels claimed responsibility for attacks on Monday along the Red Sea shipping route, including on a Greek commercial vessel, according to a British maritime agency and the US military.

The US Central Command, or CENTCOM, said the Huthis had targeted MV Cyclades, a Greek commercial vessel flying the Maltese flag, with three antiship ballistic missiles and three drone strikes.

“Initial reports indicate there were no injuries and the vessel continued on its way,” CENTCOM posted on X, formerly Twitter.

Earlier, the UK maritime security agency reported explosions “in close proximity” to a commercial ship sailing off the Yemeni coast northwest of Mokha.

“Vessel and crew are reported safe,” the agency, run by the Royal Navy, added.

Maritime security firm Ambrey said the Malta-flagged container ship was en route from Djibouti to Jeddah and was likely targeted “due to its listed operator’s ongoing trade with Israel”. AFP

Indonesia’s Ruang erupts again

MANADO – Indonesia’s remote Mount Ruang volcano erupted several times again on Tuesday, the country’s volcanology agency said, forcing evacuations, the closure of a nearby international airport and the raising of the alert level to its highest.

Authorities had warned the threat from the volcano was not over after it erupted more than half a dozen times this month, sparking the evacuation of more than 6,000 people.

Ruang, located in Indonesia’s outermost region of North Sulawesi

BANGKOK – In Bangkok’s central Siam Square, Suriyan Wongwan sweats while he waits to collect the food that he will deliver by motorbike as Thailand bakes through a heatwave.

“I’m afraid of getting heatstroke,” the 51-year-old told AFP as the mercury hit 37 degrees Celsius (99 degrees Fahrenheit), with humidity pushing the “real feel” to a sticky 43C (109F). Large swathes of Southeast Asia are struggling through a heatwave that has broken temperature

records and forced millions of children to stay home as schools close across the region. Experts say climate change makes heatwaves more frequent, longer and more intense, while the El Nino phenomenon is also driving this year’s exceptionally warm weather. Among those hit hardest are workers whose jobs require them to be outdoors all day, such as the motorbike drivers who deliver food and offer taxi rides through Bangkok’s traffic-choked streets.

“My self-protection is to drink more water, so I can carry myself and not pass out,” Suriyan said. “In hot weather like this, I drink whenever I park my bike.” The air-conditioned malls from where he collects his deliveries offer some respite, but he also worries the rapid change in temperature risks making him sick. Isara Sangmol is one of the city’s legion of “win motosai”

REGIONAL CONFLICT. A Palestinian man walks past as a woman stands at the entrance of a tent in an area housing displaced people in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip on Tuesday amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Relentless Israeli bombardment has meanwhile devastated Hamas-run Gaza, flattening much of the territory and bringing its people to the brink of famine, while threatening to unfurl into a wider regional conflict. AFP

OCCUPATION VICTIMS. Britain’s Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, and the Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Ukraine Martin Harris (left) visit the memorial to the victims of the Russian occupation in the town of Bucha on Monday amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The visit, to demonstrate solidarity with the women, men and children impacted by the war, is a continuation of her work to champion survivors of conflict related sexual violence. AFP

Colorado. AFP

LeBron tight-lipped on future after LA Lakers’ playoff exit

LOS ANGELES —LeBron James declined to be drawn on his NBA future on Monday in the wake of the Los Angeles Lakers’ playoff exit to the Denver Nuggets.

The 39-year-old NBA superstar once again produced another superb performance that belied his age with 30 points, 11 assists and nine rebounds. But it was not enough to stop the

Community wellness via Shopwise Bike Fest

SHOPWISE is revving up the excitement for a healthier lifestyle with its upcoming Shopwise Bike Fest on May 19 at the Vermosa Sports Hub in Imus City, Cavite, aiming not only to promote physical activity but also to foster a sense of camaraderie among Filipino families.

Cycling, being a sustainable and affordable means of maintaining good health, has garnered interest worldwide. Kerwin Legarde, general manager of Shopwise, expresses the hope the bike fest will provide a safe and enlivening platform for participants to embrace urban cycling.

With three adult categories covering distances of 45km, 30km and a 60km individual and corporate Open, there’s something for every skill level. Additionally, youngsters aged 2 to 15 will have their own categories, ensuring inclusivity for the whole family, To ensure a seamless experience, roads will be closed during the event, and race support will be provided. However, certain bike types, such as fixies and e-bikes, are excluded from participation. The bikes permitted are road bikes, BMX, mountain, gravel and foldable bikes. Registration is ongoing. For details, visit the event’s official website shopwise.bikefest.com.ph or follow Shopwise on social media platforms www.facebook.com/ ShopwiseSupercenters or www.instagram.com/shopwise.ph.

Leading up to the event, an expo will be held at the Ayala Mall Circuit, Activity Center in Makati from May 15 to 17 where participants can collect their ride kits, including an exclusive Shopwise bike jersey and a participation bib. On race day, assembly begins at 5 a.m., with corporate riders leading the pack, followed by subsequent waves for different categories, culminating in a spotlight on the kids’ rides at 8:30 a.m.

Lakers from falling to an agonizing 108-106 loss as Denver completed a 4-1 series victory to end James’ hopes of adding a fifth NBA championship ring in the twilight of his career.

A year ago, James had sparked speculation he could retire after the Lakers were swept 4-0 by Denver in the Western Conference finals, confirming to reporters he was considering walking away from the sport.

On Monday, questions about James’ future dominated the postgame press conference in Denver after a disappointing end to the 21st season of a glittering career.

Asked if Monday’s defeat could have been his final appearance in a

Lakers’ uniform, James smiled before replying: “I’m not going to answer that.” James, who has a year left on his current Lakers contract but reportedly has an opt out clause that leaves him free to join other teams, said he had not given serious thought to his next steps.

“I just want to get home to the family honestly,” James said.

“I’ll start looking at the schedule. One of my boys is just trying to decide if he’s going to enter the Draft or go back to school, I’ve got another kid playing ball, my daughter’s playing volleyball. And my wife is doing so many great things. So it’s about family right now.

“And then in a couple of months I gotta go to Vegas for (Olympics) training camp. So I’m gonna rest my body for USA Basketball. That’s kind of the initial thoughts.”

James has previously talked about prolonging his NBA career in order to play alongside eldest Bronny James if he eventually enters the league. James though played down that possibility on Monday, insisting he hadn’t “given it much thought lately.”

“Obviously I’ve thought about it in the past but at the end of the day the kid has to do what he wants to do ... he will decide what he wants to do and how he wants his career to go.” AFP

Fierce battles up as Spikers’ Turf semis gets going

MEN’S volleyball enters a thrilling phase as Criss Cross faces the D’Navigators, and Cignal collides with PGJC-Navy in the round-robin semifinals of the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference unfolding Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Action fires off at 4 p.m. as the No. 2 King Crunchers take on the fourthplaced D’Navigators, followed by the main event at 6 p.m. where the topseeded HD Spikers go head-to-head with the Sealions with both matches expected to deliver nail-biting moments until the last point.

With Bryan Bagunas back in the fold, the HD Spikers present a formidable look, complementing reigning MVP Jau Umandal’s prowess. However, the Sealions, led by Joeven Dela Vega, Greg Dolor and Peter Quiel, remain confident in their ability to challenge the favorites.

Cignal head coach Dexter Clamor said that the team enters the match with thorough preparation, determined to maintain their dominance over the Sealions, who they swept in the eliminations.

Despite Navy’s recent victory over the D’Navigators, Clamor underscores the team’s focus and specific strategies to secure a spot in the finals.

“Sobrang focused kami sa lahat ng makakalaban namin, pagaaralan namin yung first game agad namin kung ano yung magiging pangcounter namin sa kanila, pati rotation sobrang magiging specific kami sa kung anong gagawin namin,” said Clamor.

“Hopefully, makapag-coordinate lahat para makarating kami sa finals,” he added.

Inaugural Round Table golf unfurls at Mimosa

THE inaugural Round Table golf tournament is all set to tee off on May 1 at the newly renovated Mountain Course of the Mimosa Plus Golf Course in Clark, Pampanga.

This one-day golf extravaganza, co-presented by Collabera Digital and in partnership with SOS Children’s Villages Philippines and The Department of Tourism, marks the beginning of a weeklong series of events by Round Table Philippines. The activities include a leadership summit, national assembly, general meeting, gala night, and culminate in a breakfast sendoff.

Established in 2004, Round Table Philippines is an affiliate of the worldwide Round Table, comprising young professionals and businessmen committed to the principles of “Adopt, Adapt, Improve.”

Its mission is to drive positive change and foster excellence in both the community and its members.

The highly anticipated 18-hole golf tournament has surpassed expectations in terms of participant registrations. It is generously supported by AAA Worldwide Logistics, BPIT, Giift, Lexdale Holdings, Just Press One Inc, Converge Business, Apotheca, Reviv, Klean Athlete, Tirta Properties, Krah Pipes Manila, Liquis Minds, Dr. Coco, Mimosa Plus, Quest Plus, and Mulligan’s Shot.

RJ Lista, the Round Table golf convenor, extends special thanks to key figures such as RTPH Nat President Jerome Cariaso, RT ASPA Convener Sebastian Gerona, RT Golf Co Convener Manan Mehta, RT ASPA Committee heads Gian Antonio, Jericho Linao, Arjae Zapanta, Arius Santos, GM Michael Gapin, Kristina Sampana

PARIS—Thirty years after his death at the San Marino Grand Prix, Ayrton Senna is still adored in Formula One, a sport his fatal accident reshaped.

The 34-year-old Brazilian was leading at Imola on May 1, 1994, when he went off the track at the Tamburello curve and smashed into a concrete wall. It was the second death of the weekend.

Since then, only one driver, Frenchman Jules Bianchi in Japan in 2015, has died in a Formula One crash.

In the 2013 film “1: Life on the Limit”, British journalist Maurice Hamilton observed that Ayrton Senna’s death “was broadcast into the living rooms of millions of people who didn’t know much about motorsport but knew who he was and wanted to know who the culprit was”. Investigations into Senna’s

death laid the blame for the crash on the steering column on his Williams. In the collision, the right front tyre tore off and flew into his head. A suspension arm also pierced his helmet.

The day before, in qualifying, Austrian driver Roland Ratzenberger had died in a crash. Senna commandeered a course car to rush to the scene.

Formula One’s doctor, Sid Watkins, wrote later in his book ‘Life at the Limit’ that he told the distraught Senna: “Ayrton, why don’t you withdraw from racing tomorrow.”

“In fact, why don’t you give it up altogether? What else do you need to do? You have been world champion three times, you are obviously the quickest driver. Give it up and let’s go fishing.”

“Three big crashes,” said Frederic Vasseur, now Ferrari team boss. “I think that shocked F1.”

“I don’t know if it was a trigger, but I think it’s true that it’s often when there’s an accident that we change. After Jules, we made the halo, for example,” he said, alluding to the hoop above the cockpit that now protects drivers’ heads.

While Formula One had already begun to pay more attention to safety, thanks to the initiative of drivers such as three-time world champion Jackie Stewart, Senna’s death prompted renewed efforts to improve cars, equipment and circuits. AFP

Watkins wrote that Senna replied: “Sid, there are certain things over which we have no control. I cannot quit, I have to go on.” Senna had already hurried to a stricken driver the previous day when his young compatriot Rubens Barrichello crashed. Watkins prevented the driver choking on his own tongue.

LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers puts up a shot against Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets in the fourth quarter during game

The

8th hole of the Mimosa golf course was made famous by Tiger Woods which he conquered with a driver

three wood. The tee shot demands precision to avoid

cluster of bunkers on the left, while avoiding the right side, guarded by

WEDNESDAY, MAY 1, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Filipinas U-17 aiming for cohesion, versatility

COHESION and versatility are the aims of a Philippine squad being formed for the Asian Football Confederation Women’s Under-17 Asian Championships in Bali, Indonesia in May.

Australian coach Siniza Cohadzic said this after a 30-member Philippine national women’s under-17 pool went through a series of friendlies over the weekend.

“That’s how we want to build the team. We want to have those number of plays, where we can compete,” said Cohadzic after their sendoff game for the Bali tournament.

Four players, including New Jersey standout Gabrielle Baker will be around. They were among the players who joined their two-match series against South Korea early this month.

The Filipinas under-17 squad played with different sets of players during their series of friendlies.

First, Isabella Alamo scored on the 86th minutes when they won over Kaya FC last Thursday at the University of Makati turf.

Last Sunday, the young Filipinas put away the Manila Diggers, 3-0, with Isabella Preston scoring in the 36th and 40th minutes, and Alamo knocking in a goal in the 20th over at the Ayala Vermos Sports Hub in Imus, Cavite.

Another set of players won over the La Liga All-Stars, 6-0, featuring Nina Mathelus, Ava Villapando, Natalie Collins, Alamo, Sophia Saludares and Kieran Bradley.

“To be honest, we want to have talent that will give the right balance, and go with the right team of players in the Asian Championships,” Cohadzic told the Manila Standard.

The Philippine Football Federation conducted a local training camp at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on March 21 to 23, with the coaches identifying locally-based players who can reinforce the team. Peter Atencio

Lady Knights stun fancied Lyceum bets to boost bid

LETRAN overcame a huge fourthset deficit as it brought down a fancied Lyceum of the Philippines University, 24-26, 25-20, 25-22, 25-22, on Tuesday to enhance its Final Four aspirations in NCAA Season 99 women’s volleyball at the Filoil EcoOil Arena. With the match appearing to head to a deciding fifth set after trailing 14-9 in the fourth set, the Lady Knights charged back and turned things around in their favor to finish off the Lady Pirates and claim their fifth win in seven outings.

That put them back in prime position to snare a Final Four ticket.

It also snapped a two-game slide following harrowing defeats to College of St. Benilde (7-0) and Mapua (4-3).

The result also sent the Lady Pirates crashing to their first defeat after stringing six straight triumphs to start the season and remained at No. 2 behind an unbeaten, three-peat-seeking CSB. LPU was also denied a Final Four berth had it won this one.

Gia Maquilang came through with an all-around performance as she unloaded 18 points while spearheading her team’s floor defense with 16 digs on top of 18 excellent receptions.

Yen Martin and Judiel Nitura provided the needed ammos and scattered 16 and 15 hits, respectively.

Jan Tulang waxed poetic with her spikes again as she uncorked 19 but it failed to translate into a win.

Natalie Villapando in action during one of the Philippine U-17

PH karatekas bag 6 golds in Southeast Asia tourney

By Randy Caluag

THE Philippine karate team bagged 6 golds, a silver, and 16 bronze medals in a dominating performance during the recently concluded 11th Southeast Asian Karate Federation Championships in Bangkok, Thailand.

Providing golden victories were Bashy Mañalac in the 70kgs Cadets Kumite, Joan Denise Lumbao (-59kgs Womens Junior Kumite), Sakura Alforte (Womens Individual Kata), Arianne Brito (+68 U21 Kumite), Alwyn Batican (-75 Men’s Individual Kumite) and Kirk Riverz Zamayla (-55 Men’s U21).

“Winning six gold medals is a fantastic achievement and it’s wonderful

THE Philippines is sending three teams to the Touch World Cup 2024 slated July 15 to 21 at the University of Nottingham in England.

Though touch football has been in the country for more than 20 years, but the sport is only becoming competitive in the past several years.

The country has sent teams to two previous worlds with the mixed open team finishing 9th and women’s open team 12th in the 2015 edition held in Coffs Harbour, Australia; and men’s open squad placing sixth and women’s open 15th in the 2019 Putrajaya, Malaysia.

Touch Association Pilipinas chairman Colin Steley said they are aiming at top-five finishes in the men’s women’s and mixed divisions.

“The World Cup is the highest level of competition for the sport and everybody playing the sport is aiming to play in the event which is held every four years,” said Carl Majabague during

to hear that all the players are safe and injury-free,” said Karate Pilipinas Sports Federation president Richard Lim, while thanking the team’s supporters and friends for “your support and prayers undoubtedly contributed to their success.”

Tuesday’s Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum held at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

“This is very similar to rugby minus the tackle, touch football is played by six players a side and a game has a duration of 40 minutes, 20 minutes per half,” added Majabague, who is the only remnant of the 2019 team, in the same session presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, MILO, Smart/PLDT, and ArenaPlus, the 24/7 sports app in the country Australia and New Zealand, from whose region the sport began, are among the top countries in the sport. The Philippines is considered the second strongest team in Southeast Asia behind Singapore. With high hopes for the worlds, TAP is looking to boost the popularity of the sport in the country and eventually become a member of the Philippine Olympic Committee.

“Gives me the chills every time we play the National Anthem in an international championship as if I was the one being awarded. Congratulations

for a job well

done,” he added. Lim also congratulated Jamie Christine Lim for her efforts, barely missing the gold and pocketing the silver medal in the women’s -61kg kumite. The Philippines also bagged bronze medals from different categories courtesy of Jeremy Nopre, Rebecca Torres, Jodan Macalipay, Alexis Nicole Villacarlos, Nathaniel Olivar, Tyler Thomson, Zian Alexander, Jan Michael Lozada, Abdulhakim Abdulrakim, Gianne Amber Delacruz, Arianne Brito, Christian Lachica, the Male Cadets Team Kata, Male Seniors Team Kata and the Female Seniors Team Kumite. Karate Pilipinas also took pride in its referees “for their outstanding performance, especially in officiating the final rounds. Their selection by the Referee Council underscores the trust and confidence placed in their decision-making abilities.”

Another Filipino technical official, Chino Veguillas, received recognition for his appointment as the SEAKF Referee Council Secretary, adding to the honor garnered by Karate Pilipinas.

JANA Diaz flashed top form at the San Jose SALT National Juniors Tennis Championships, stunning the top two seeds in the girls’ premier division to emerge as the lone “double” winner at the Jethro Sports Center in Valenzuela City over the weekend.

Diaz toppled No. 2 Sandra Bautista, 7-5, 6-0, in the semis then dominated top seed Chloe Mercado, 6-2, 6-2, in challenging conditions to secure the 18-and-under singles crown in the Group 2 tournament presented by Dunlop.

The rising star from Bacoor, Cavite also excelled in the 16-and-U category, living up to her top billing by dropping just six games in three matches. She sealed her two-title romp with a resounding 6-0, 6-2 triumph over Bautista.

Diaz’s stellar performance earned her the coveted MVP honors in the event sponsored by Keizan Steel Trading, while Olongapo City’s Troan Vytiaco emerged as the top player in the boys’ division by clinching the 14-and-U trophy against Brendan Morales, 4-6, 6-4, 10-2. Despite his impressive play, Vytiaco fell short of

matching Diaz’s achievements as he bowed to Julio Naredo, 6-1, 6-2, in the semifinals of the 16-and-U category. Naredo, from Quezon City, went on to claim the crown with a 1-0(ret.) win over Morales in the final. Other winners in the event, part of the nationwide circuit under the Palawan Pawnshop National Championships program, headed by president/CEO Bobby Castro, were Lucena City’s Jasmine Sardona, Olongapo’s Athena Liwag, QC’s Antonio Ng, Cristiano Calingasan from Bataan, and Joaquin Dacyon, also from Olongapo. Meanwhile, action shifts to Parañaque City on May 9-13 for the Dr. Pablo Olivarez, Sr. Junior Championships scheduled at the Olivarez Sports Center in Sucat. For details, contact event organizer Bobby Mangunay at 0915-4046464. The unranked Sardona shocked No. 2 Izabelle Camcam, 4-5(8), 5-3, 10-6, in the quarterfinals of the girls’ 14-and-U, then edged third seed and doubles partner Liwag, 6-4, 7-5, before thwarting No. 4 Lilith Rufino, 6-4, 7-5, to snare the crown, while Liwag outdueled Rufino in a tense-filled finale, 3-6, 6-3, 10-3, to pocket the 12-and-U diadem.

Karate Pilipinas Sports Federation Inc. National Athletes

Ava

Kirk Riverz Zamayla in action in the -55 Men’s U21 category

Touch Association Pilipinas proponents and players

Jana Diaz (left) celebrates victory alongside Troan Vytiaco (right) and San Jose SALT director John Altiche.

IMF upgrades PH growth outlook

Social Security System

president and chief

points out to construction company personnel their unremitted contributions in Barangay Teacher’s Village East, Quezon City. Macasaet led the simultaneous Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) operation, which called on more than 1,200 employers nationwide to settle their contribution delinquencies, amounting to over P335 million and affecting the social security coverage of nearly 19,000 employees.

METROPOLITAN Bank & Trust

Co. (Metrobank) said Tuesday its net earnings grew 14.5 percent in the second quarter of 2024 to P12.0 billion from a year ago.

This translated into a return on equity (ROE) of 13.7 percent, higher than 13.1 percent in the same period last year.

The bank said its improving profitability was driven by consistent growth of its lending portfolio, better operational efficiencies, stable asset quality and continued execution of

strategies to optimize the use of capital.

Consolidated assets expanded 10.7 percent to P3.2 trillion, the second highest asset base among the country’s private universal banks.

“As we remain focused on sustaining the bank’s profitability, our strong commitment to our customers is at the center of our growth strategy. We will consistently offer tailored financial solutions that directly address the needs and goals of those we serve to help them build a more

LABOR-TRADE MEETING. Department of Labor and Employment Secretary

Bienvenido Laguesma (center) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo

together with International Labor Organization (ILO) country director

Hassan hold a high-level labor and trade partnership session at the

THE Department of Finance (DOF) expects the partnership between Maharlika Investment Corp. (MIC) and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) to create more jobs for Filipinos through infrastructure and development projects.

“With the wide-ranging areas to be explored by this agreement, we will be creating more sustainable urban communities that not only enhance the quality of life for Filipinos but also

By Alena Mae S. Flores

generate numerous job opportunities for them,” Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said.

MIC president and chief executive Rafael Jose Consing Jr. and BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang signed a memorandum of understanding on April 29, 2024 that will allow the MIC to explore investment opportunities within BCDA properties, including Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone. Under the MOU, BCDA and MIC

ABOITIZ Power Corp. subsidiary Therma Quezon Energy Inc. (TQE) proposed to develop a 1,310-megawatt combined cycle gas power plant (CCPT) in Pagbilao, Quezon and a liquefied natural gas terminal ((LNG) with estimated project cost of $1 billion. TQE said in a document submitted to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources the construction of the project would start in 2025. The project is expected to ensure reliable power in the Luzon

prosperous future,” said Metrobank president Fabian Dee.

The bank’s net interest income grew 15.4 percent to P28.7 billion in the first three months of the year from the previous year, propelled by sustained growth in interest earning assets and higher net interest margin of 4.0 percent from 3.9 percent.

This was supported by the continued expansion of its gross loans, which rose 12.1 percent yearon-year. Commercial loans jumped

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Tuesday it expects inflation for April 2024 to fall between 3.5 percent and 4.3 percent.

The upper band of the forecast is above the government’s target range of 2 percent to 4 percent for 2024. Inflation in March was at 3.7 percent

The Philippine Statistics Authority said the price uptick in March was mainly due to a faster food inflation rate of 5.7 percent from 4.8 percent in February 2024. This was influenced by rice inflation, which accelerated to 24.4 percent from 23.7 percent.

“Continued price increases for rice and meat along with higher gasoline prices and the peso depreciation are the primary sources of upward price

will further discuss, share knowledge and explore potential collaboration that will lead to the development of a feasibility study report of a potential investment portfolio.

Among the BCDA projects that will be explored by the MIC are the expansion of Clark International Airport; the affordable housing project in New Clark City; the Clark Integrated Public Transport System; the Poro Point Seaport Modernization program; and the Clark Central

in power generation, the development of the CCPP and LNG terminal aligns with the evolving energy trends globally to phase-out coal or other hydrocarbons such as diesel oil or condensate. Utilizing LNG for power generation and the construction of this LNG terminal and CCPP is a strategic choice and an important step towards the cleaner energy future of the Philippines,” the company said. The LNG terminal will deliver natural gas to the power plant at an estimated 1.1 million tons per annum. The terminal will safely store LNG and supply it to the power plant at the required capacity in a reliable manner.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE International Monetary Fund (IMF) said Monday it revised upward its economic growth forecast for the Philippines this year and next.

The IMF, in its April 2024 Regional Economic Outlook for Asia and Pacific, said the Philippine economy as measured by gross domestic product (GDP) is likely to grow 6.2 percent this year, up from its earlier forecast of 5.9 percent in October. It is within the government’s target range of 6 percent to 7 percent this year.

The IMF also expects economic growth to reach 6.2 percent in 2025, slightly up from its 6.1 percent forecast in October. This is lower than the government’s target of 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent next year.

“India and the Philippines have been the source of repeated positive growth surprises, supported by resilient domestic demand,” the IMF said. It said growth is expected to remain strong and steady in Indonesia (at 5.0 and 5.1 percent in 2024 and 2025, respectively) and in Malaysia (at about 4.4 percent), but to be more subdued in Thailand (at 2.7 percent in 2024), where prospects for the implementation of a fiscal stimulus package have dimmed.

Growth in Asia and the Pacific is projected at 4.5 percent—an upward revision of 0.3 percentage point relative to the October 2023 Regional Economic Outlook: Asia and Pacific, which partially reflects carryover from strong growth outcomes in the second half of 2023.

11.2 percent, partly driven by rising capital expenditures of corporates. Consumer loans portfolio remained robust, recording a 15.3-percent growth, led by a 25.5-percent increase in gross credit card receivables and 18.2-percent expansion in auto loans.

The bank’s total deposits increased 4.9 percent from the same period last year to P2.4 trillion, with low-cost current and savings accounts (CASA) contributing 58.6 percent of the total.

pressures for the month,” the BSP said.

The peso hovered at 57.76 against the US dollar Tuesday, near a 17-month low.

The BSP said the lower prices of fish, fruits, vegetables as well as lower electricity rates and the rollback in LPG prices could offset the upside price pressures.

“Going forward, the BSP will continue to monitor developments affecting the outlook for inflation and growth in line with its data-dependent approach to monetary policy decisionmaking,” it said. Inflation rate averaged 3.3 percent in the first quarter of 2024, well within the target range.

Darwin G. Amojelar

Business District.

“I cannot think of a better inaugural investment portfolio for Maharlika than the BCDA’s flagship infrastructure projects within the vibrant Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone,” Recto said.

“One can only imagine the wealth of opportunities that will be fully unlocked by this strategic partnership between the country’s two important growth vehicles,” he said.

Darwin G. Amojelar

protection through its participation in the Global Cross-Border Privacy Rules (CBPR) Forum and Global Cooperation Arrangement for Privacy Enforcement (Global CAPE).

“One of NPC’s missions is to promote global standards for data privacy and protection. Our participation in these international initiatives underscores this commitment,” said NPC commissioner John Henry Naga.

“The NPC welcomes these advancements in international data privacy cooperation and look forward to a continued and sustainable collaboration with our data privacy counterparts,” he said.

The Philippines joined the Global CAPE in March 2024. The multilateral agreement acts as a framework for cooperation and information sharing among privacy enforcement authorities (PEAs) regarding cross-border data protection and enforcement. Othel V. Campos US vows to help PH electronics sector US ASSISTANT Secretary

PROCESSING. The Department of Trade and IndustrySurigao del Norte (DTI-SDN) holds a training on cacao bean fermentation and processing in

Cantapoy, Malimono—a municipality known for its rich agricultural potential.

Pascual (left),

Khalid

Sheraton Manila Bay on April 26, 2024.

CACAO

Barangay

SSS CAMPAIGN.

(SSS)

executive Rolando Ledesma Macasaet (left)

Shares decline on profit taking, investors take cautious stance

PHILIPPINE stocks declined Tuesday, ending six straight days of gains due to profit-taking. The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index slipped 69.15 points, or 1.09 percent, to close at 6,700.49, while the broader all-shares index lost 17.34 points, or 0.49 percent, to settle at 3,525.94. All sectoral indices ended in the red led by property (-1.00 percent), services (-1.15 percent) and holding firms (-0.60 percent).

“The bourse struggled to have a clear direction early in the day before heavy selling occurred near the closing bell,” said Mikhail Plopenio, a research analyst at Philstocks Financial Inc.

“This reflected the cautiousness of the investors throughout the session,” he said.

Analysts said investors turned cautious after the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said the April inflation rate would likely stay within in 3.5 percent to 4.3 percent level.

Investors will also await the outcome of US Federal Reserve meeting slated this week to get more clues on its policy direction on interest rate.

Net market value improved to P5.07 billion.

Financial markets will be closed Wednesday in celebration of Labor Day.

Meanwhile, Asian markets mostly rose Tuesday following advances on Wall Street, while the yen held gains after the previous day’s sharp swings and focus turned to the Federal Reserve’s upcoming policy decision. Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP

DMCI eyes Cemex recovery in 2025 despite low demand

By Jenniffer B. Austria

CONSUNJI-LED conglomerate DMCI Holdings, Inc. said Tuesday it expects Cemex Holdings Philippines (CHP) to turn around as early as 2025 despite the weak cement demand and competition from imports.

DMCI Holdings president and chief executive Isidro Consunji said that while CHP has operational and financial issues, he is confident that the group can revitalize the cement firm by 2025 given its capacity expansion and the clear synergies with the conglomerate.

“While cement demand is currently soft, we expect it to rebound as our

Ayala, New Zealand agency explore business opportunities

CONGLOMERATE Ayala Corp. said Tuesday it signed a cooperation arrangement with New Zealand’s international business development agency to explore potential business and collaborative opportunities.

“We are excited that there is renewed interest for New Zealand to explore opportunities in our country. Likewise, we are interested in what we can learn from our Kiwi friends across a wide range of industries and sectors,” said Ayala chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala during the signing ceremony.

The signing took place on April 19, when New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon visited the company’s headquarters during his official state visit to the Philippines.

The signing was led by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise chief executive Peter Chrisp, Ayala chief executive Cezar Consing and Ayala chief finance officer Albert de Larrazabal.

The signing was witnessed by Prime Minister Luxon, New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines Peter Kell, New Zealand Trade and

Enterprise General Manager of International Clare Wilson and Zobel de Ayala.

Describing the Philippines as one of the fastest growing economies in the region, Prime Minister Luxon introduced to the Ayala Group a delegation of senior business leaders from different industries, including manufacturing, airline, food and beverage, education and energy.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Luxon said in his speech he looks forward to identifying how his business delegation can work with Ayala for the benefit of New Zealand and the Philippines.

“We’re very grateful to be here. This [Ayala] is a conglomerate with huge capabilities and huge interests in multiple sectors across the Philippine economy,” he said.

Ayala is one of the country’s largest and oldest conglomerates with core investments in property, banking, telecommunication, and power generation. It also has investments in automotive, electronics manufacturing and water distribution water. Jenniffer B. Austria

turnaround plan progresses, supported by the Build Better More program [of the Marcos administration] and the anticipated easing of interest rates next year,” he said.

DMCI last week signed an agreement to acquire the 100-percent interest in Cemex Asian South East Corp., which owns 89.86 percent of CHP. CHP, the Philippines’ fourth-largest

cement manufacturer, reported losses of P1 billion in 2022 and P2 billion in 2023, primarily attributed to escalating costs and reduced sales volumes.

The cement firm is in the process of constructing a 1.5-million-ton integrated cement production line at its Solid Plant in Antipolo, Rizal.

The expansion will increase CHP’s overall installed annual production capacity by 26 percent to P7.2 million tons from 5.7 million tons.

The new cement production line is scheduled to commence operations by September 2024.

DMCI also expects CHP’s power, fuel and other production supply costs to decrease on normalizing market price.

AboitizPower’s solar plant adds new capacity to the grid amid tight supply

By Alena Mae S. Flores

ABOITIZ Renewables Inc. (ARI), the renewable energy (RE) arm of Aboitiz Power Corp., said Tuesday the timely testing and commissioning of the 159-megawatt peak (MWp) Laoag Solar Power Plant in Aguilar, Pangasinan helped provide additional capacity and minimize grid strain, given the tight power supply.

“Together with the 94 MWp Cayanga-Bugallon Solar Power facility — also built on sloping, nonagricultural land in Pangasinan and energized last October 2023 — both solar projects will account for about 200 megawatts of total sellable capacity that will eventually contribute much-needed electricity to the

grid. We are eager to contribute to our country’s journey toward energy security, especially during these challenging times,” said ARI president Jimmy Villaroman.

The 94-MWp Cayanga-Bugallon Solar Power facility was built on nonarable sloping ground instead of the usual flat fields fit for agriculture.

AboitizPower said the 17-MW Tiwi Binary Geothermal Power Plant would also come online in the second quarter this year.

Co-located with the Tiwi Geothermal Power Plant in Albay, the binary plant harvests residual heat from the hot brine side of the geothermal production process, otherwise unutilized before reinjecting back to the earth, to produce more electricity.

BANK of Commerce (BoC), the banking arm of conglomerate San Miguel Corp., said Tuesday it launched its P5-billion fixed-rate bond offering with an oversubscription option.

BoC said in a disclosure to the stock exchange the P5 billion Series B bond offering would be issued as the second tranche from its P20billion bond shelf registration programmed approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The latest bond offering has a tenor of 1.5 years and a fixed interest rate of 6.5635 percent per annum.

The public offer period is from April 30 to May 9, 2024, but may be shortened depending on the demand, the bank said.

The Series B bonds will be issued and listed on the Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. (PDEx) on May 16, 2024.

BoC said it would use the net proceeds from the fund-raising activity to refinance maturing debt obligations.

BoC registered a record net income of P2.8 billion in 2023, up 56 percent from P1.8 billion it reported in the previous year.

The bank’s return on equity stood at 9.52 percent at the end of 2023, marking an improvement from the previous year’s 7.01 percent.

The bank’s record profit was backed by growth in its core lending business. Net Interest Income went up by P1.61 billion or 24 percent year on year. Growth was registered across all lending segments.

BoC appointed ING Bank N.V., Manila Branch (ING) and Philippine Commercial Capital, Inc (PCCI Capital) as joint lead arrangers and joint bookrunners for the issuance. The bank is also acting as a selling agent for the offering, together with ING and PCCI Capital.

Jenniffer B. Austria

Haus Talk’s income rises 23% to P242m on new projects

REAL estate development firm Haus Talk, Inc. said Tuesday its net income increased 23 percent to P242.6 million in 2023 from P138.1 million in 2022 on prudent investments and the successful execution of various projects initiated two years ago.

Consolidated revenues also surged 58 percent, which underscores the company’s expansion and strategic initiatives undertaken over the past year.

HTI head of corporate planning and investors relations Francis Madlambayan said The Granary

drove the impressive financial results last year.

The Granary in Binan, Laguna is an economic housing project that integrates fine townhome features and community master-planning within affordable housing schemes. It is a Haus Talk formula that has had great success in Antipolo and other parts of Laguna.

“With the numbers exhibiting positive returns not only for HTI and especially our shareholders, we are even more confident now to launch projects in other locations where

housing is needed by the market,” Madlambayan said.

HTI stands to benefit from Board of Investments (BOI) incentives, including an income tax holiday for the second phase of The Granary development. These incentives, catering to expanding developers of economic housing projects, encompass three years of 25 percent income

savings and 12 years of duty exemption on capital equipment importation. These will bolster HTI’s capacity

BPI AWARDS. BPI Wealth, Bank of the Philippine Islands’ (BPI) wealth management arm, bags three major awards at the recently concluded CFA Society Philippines Best Managed Fund of the Year Awards. Receiving the awards (from left) are head of portfolio management Rico Gomez, head of fixed income and global markets Gladys Buenaventura and head of equities Erwin Balita.

Pushing for just living wage, better workers’ protection

By Vito Barcelo

MAY 1, 2024 marks the 122nd Labor Day in the Philippines.

It was May 1, 1903, when the Filipinos celebrated Labor Day in the Philippines.

The first labor group, Union Obrera Democratica, was behind the historyaltering movement. Demanding absolute freedom from American capitalism and imperialism, thousands of workers marched down from Plaza Moriones in Tondo to Malacañang that day.

Formerly known as the Union Obrera Democratica, the labor group was founded by Isabelo Delos Reyes and Herminigildo Cruz on February 2, 1902. The union championed the rights of the labor force during the American occupation in the Philippines. Unfortunately, Delos Reyes was jailed in August 1902 for sedition, rebellion, and conspiring to raise labor wages. Dominador Gomez took the helm afterward and led the first Labor Day celebration on May 1. Since that day, Filipino workers continue to struggle for fair wages and better working practices.

Today, the celebration of Labor Day in the Philippines is not just about parades but also rallies and demonstrations to call for a just and livable minimum wage, among others. The labor unions in the Philippines are recognized under the Labor Code of the Philippines, allowing them to have the freedom to self-organize. They are raising awareness of the usual concerns of workers such as wages, an hour of work, and other legal rights they are entitled to have.

These labor groups are also legitimate entities negotiating the terms and conditions of employment— through the process of collective bargaining agreement—with the employers.

The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) is the largest confederation of labor federations in the Philippines with 480,000 members.

Another prominent labor union is the Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU).

Meanwhile, the TUCP is appealing for a dialogue with President Marcos Jr. and to meet with the labor sector to discuss the workers problems.

In a statement, the TUCP asked the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) over the absence of any dialogue, especially during the annual May 1 celebration, between workers and Marcos.

The DOLE program for May 1 should have focused instead on letting workers’ voices be heard by the President on what urgently needs to be done to address the plight of the Filipino workers, the TUCP said.

“It is in the spirit of continuing social dialogue that the TUCP is dumbfounded by the lack of labor dialogue even just once a year on workers’ day, particularly, this May 1st. It has been two years into the Administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., and there has been no labor dialogue set even on the scheduled Labor Day Celebration in Malacañang this year. We therefore ask DOLE: ‘What is there to

mark and remember the 122nd Labor Day with?’ Celebrating Labor Day would be a hollow ritual without addressing or even listening to the struggling workers’ pleas,” the TUCP stressed.

The TUCP said that ignoring the Philippine labor movement could derail President Ferdinand R Marcos, Jr., pitch to the world for the Philippines as an investment destination considering that both foreign trade and foreign direct investments are inextricably linked to the clear and categorical observance of international labor standards.

It should be noted that the country has been consistently ranked globally as one of the ten worst countries for workers. The country’s observance of

ILO Convention No.87 on Freedom of Association has been under continuing scrutiny internationally since 2009. The latest January 2023 ILO HighLevel Tripartite Mission highlighted persistent violations and violence directed against the Filipino workers’ freedom of association, all done with impunity.

Also, the TUCP seeks the House of Representatives to pass several house bills pending before congress and these include:

HOUSE BILL NO. 1512: SECURITY OF TENURE (SOT) ACT that seeks to end the pandemic of ENDO contractualization in the country and to restore security of tenure as the norm in labor relations, rather than the

exemption.

HOUSE BILL NO. 1518: UNION FORMATION ACT aims to strengthen the right of workers to self-organize by lowering the requirements for union registration in response to the ILO’s long-standing observation of excessive registration requirements on workers’ organizations in the country.

HOUSE BILL NO. 5536: ASSUMPTION OF JURISDICTION ACT proposes to limit the power of the DOLE Secretary to assume jurisdiction over labor disputes by changing the operative phrase from the overly broad “industries indispensable to the national interest” to “industries providing essential services” as defined by the ILO.

Celebrating PH Labor Day 2024: Salute to the workforce

By Patricia Taculao-Deligero

EVERY May 1st, the Philippines comes alive with parades, rallies, and festivities in celebration of Labor Day. It’s a national holiday steeped in history and dedicated to recognizing the immense contributions of Filipino workers, both domestically and overseas, to the country’s social and economic development.

Its roots trace back to 1903. Under the banner of the first labor union, the Union Obrera Democratica Filipina, thousands of Filipino workers marched to Malacañang Palace to demand better working conditions during American rule. This historic protest ignited a movement for workers’ rights, paving the way for fairer treatment and improved labor policies. In 1908, the Philippine Congress formally recognized May 1 as a national holiday, solidifying Labor Day’s place in the country’s calendar.

The celebration remains relevant today because it is a powerful reminder of the fight for workers’ rights. While the Filipino community made significant progress, challenges persist. The celebration highlights fair wages, secure working conditions, and protections for overseas Filipino workers. Labor Day rallies bring these

Countries and dependencies coloured by observance of International Workers’ Day or a different variant of May Day or Labor Day:

 Labor Day falls or may fall on May 1  Another public holiday on May 1 or the first Monday in May

No public holiday on May 1, but Labor Day on a different date

No public holiday on May 1 and no Labor Day

issues to the forefront, sparking discussions and advocating for change.

Beyond addressing challenges, Labor Day is a day of appreciation. It’s time to acknowledge the dedication and resilience of the Filipino workforce. Filipino workers, from farmers to teachers to nurses and engineers, play a vital role in driving the nation’s economy and progress. Appreciating worker efforts

We can show our appreciation to the working class in various ways. Flags wave, songs reverberate, and unity washes over the nation. This year, let’s embrace the spirit of unity and explore diverse ways to honor the Filipino workforce, the backbone of our country.

Firstly, let’s participate in the traditional festivities. Whether you join the vibrant parades showcasing worker pride or witness the powerful rallies demanding change, your presence amplifies the workers’ collective voice. Virtual rallies and discussions offer a platform to engage with the movement if distance hinders your physical participation. Social media has become a powerful tool – share stories of Filipino workers you admire,

express gratitude to essential workers, or use hashtags to show your solidarity.

Beyond public displays, let’s extend our appreciation into everyday interactions.

Acknowledge the cashier at the grocery store, the delivery person bringing your package, or the construction worker building the infrastructure we rely on. A simple “thank you” or a smile goes a long way in recognizing their hard work.

Looking inward, let’s champion fair treatment in our spheres of influence. As employers, ensure you adhere to labor laws, provide opportunities for professional growth, and foster a safe working environment. As consumers, consider supporting locally made products and services that prioritize ethical labor practices. Every conscious decision contributes to a system that empowers Filipino workers.

We can also focus on amplifying marginalized voices. Migrant workers, often the backbone of industries abroad, deserve our recognition and support. Advocate for their rights and advocate against exploitation. Celebrate their contributions and champion efforts to improve their working conditions.

Finally, let’s use Araw ng Paggawa as a springboard for continued advocacy. Research challenges Filipino workers face, understand their struggles and engage in constructive conversations. Support organizations working towards labor reform and empowering the workforce. Whether volunteering or staying informed, every effort paves the way for a brighter future for Filipino workers. Understanding and solving labor issues

While festivities are essential in honoring Filipino workers, Labor Day is a stark reminder of the ongoing fight for fair treatment. The working class continue to face multiple concerns regarding their working conditions. Fortunately, we can each play a role in solving these labor issues. One of the most significant challenges is contractualization. Many Filipino workers are stuck in short-term contracts, which deny them benefits and job security. Consumers can be powerful allies in addressing this issue. Prioritize businesses that offer permanent employment with

proper benefits. Look for certifications that promote fair labor practices. By shifting your purchasing power towards companies prioritizing employee wellbeing, you send a message that Filipinos value secure work.

Low wages are another primary concern. As an everyday citizen, you can advocate for a living wage. Stay informed about minimum wage adjustments and support campaigns pushing for increases. Talk to your local representatives and voice your desire for policies that ensure Filipino workers can afford a decent standard of living.

Occupational safety and health remain constant concerns. Awareness is key here. Educate yourself about safety regulations in different industries. If you witness unsafe working conditions, report them to the proper authorities. By holding companies accountable for worker safety, you contribute to a healthier work environment for all.

The plight of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) deserves particular attention. Unfortunately, exploitation and abuse are not uncommon. Educate yourself about OFWs’ risks and support organizations that assist them. Utilize social media platforms to amplify their voices and advocate for more robust protective measures. Finally, a crucial concern is the need for robust labor unions. Unions play a vital role in collective bargaining and upholding worker rights. Everyday citizens can support existing unions by understanding their role and respecting their actions, like strikes, that may cause temporary inconveniences. Additionally, it advocates for policies that make it easier for workers to form and join unions, empowering them to have a more excellent voice in their workplaces.

Beyond awareness and recognition, Labor Day is a call to action. It’s a day to celebrate the power of collective bargaining. Strong unions are vital in advocating for better working conditions and ensuring workers’ voices become heard. It’s a day to embrace social responsibility as consumers. By supporting businesses with fair labor practices, we contribute to a system that empowers Filipino workers.

Iloilo City eyes lifting of calamity state due to pertussis

ILOILO CITY – The City Health Office (CHO) will recommend the lifting of the state of calamity caused by the pertussis outbreak if no new probable cases are recorded in the next two weeks.

“If you have noticed, for the past two weeks, we have had no new probable cases. We have positive but it was previously reported as probable cases,” CHO head Dr. Annabelle Tang said.

Tang attributed the lack of new cases to the outbreak response immunization (ORI), massive vaccination campaign, post-exposure prophylaxis for adults, and provision of vaccines to pregnant women as immediate post-partum.

She said they already have consumed the 6,085 doses sent by the Department of Health on April 15, while the vaccination

Montalban

is ongoing using the 3,573 doses of cityprocured vaccines, focusing on babies 0-12 months.

Some 606 pregnant women also received tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (TDaP) vaccines out of the 1,200 doses also purchased by the local government.

They are just waiting for 284 others to reach their 27 to 36 weeks of pregnancy to be given their TDaP, Tang said.

Tang said they would wait for another two weeks and should there be no probable cases, that is the time they will recommend the lifting.

unveils historical, cultural markers

IN CELEBRATION Of the 123rd municipal founding anniversary of Montalban, Rizal, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) and the Municipal Government of Montalban recently unveiled two historical markers related to the town’s pivotal role in the 1896 Philippine Revolution.

The first marker is the establishment of the Gobierno Departamental Del Centro De Luzon (Departamental Government of Central Luzon) which oversaw the revolutionary organizations in Manila, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija and Morong.

Established on May 13, 1897, it was headed by priest Pedro Dandan, Anastacio Francisco as vice president, with cabinet secretaries Teodoro Gonzales, Cipriano Pacheco, Paciano Rizal, and Feliciano Jocson. The second marker is the Battle of Mt. Puray which immortalizes the victory of Filipino revolutionary forces under generals Emilio Aguinaldo and Licerio Geronimo against a much-bigger Spanish force commanded by Lt. Col. Felipe Dujiols.

Fought on June 14, 1897, the battle broke

the momentum of the Spanish military advance and allowed the Filipinos to reorganize in San Miguel, Bulacan where they established the Republic of Biak na Bato, sued for cessation of combat under a peace treaty, and prepared for the second phase of the Revolution in 1898.

The historical landmarks are located in the upland barangay of Puray, a Dumagat tribal village 15 kilometers away from the town proper near the foot of the mountain where the battle took place.

During the event, Montalban’s municipal tourism and cultural affairs office (MTCAO) premiered the video documentary “Tagumpay sa Puray” which featured the Republica Filipina Reenactment Group (RFRG) as the conflicting forces.

The unveiling ceremonies are part of the month-long Montalban Festival which celebrates the town’s rich history, culture, and adventure destinations.

Montalban was established in 1871 as a pueblo as part of the Spanish-era Manila province, was later incorporated in 1901 into the newly-created Rizal province, and reorganized as a municipality in 1909.

Malabon City administrator highlights housing strategies in US conference

MALABON City administrator and concurrent head of the City Housing and Development Department Alexander Rosete joined researchers and policy advocates during the International Conference on Urban Affairs (ICUA) held at Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York, United States from April 24 -27. Rosete presented how local government strategies in implementing housing programs help in reducing poverty and promoting resilience and equity, and improve the lives of residents. The ICUA, housed in the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, brings together ur-

Quirino highlights road safety, tourism at 3-day Motorismo

THE province of Quirino highlighted road safety once more in the recentlyconcluded seventh edition of Quirino Motorismo, one of the country’s biggest and pioneer motorcycle sports and tourism.

According to Quirino Gov. Dakila Carlo Cua, the three-day festivity is aligned with the advocacy of the province and the riding community for road safety in the pursuit of sports, adventure and motor tourism.

He said that this year’s edition featured the first-ever Ecotourism Circuit ride around the province to make it an authentic motor tourism activity where the riders can appreciate its natural wonders and interact with the local population and indigenous tribes.

The event was organized by the provincial government with partner group Quirino Riders Federation, and is the second post-pandemic staging since its resumption last year.

“Thousands of riders joined us to experience this historic event as we explored thrilling waterfalls, magnificent rock formations, picturesque river gorges, adrenaline-pumping whitewater rapids, and breath-taking limestone caves of the province,” said Cua. With a splendid network of paved and scenic roads, the province’s top tourist spots can be easily accessible onboard motorcycles, coupled with short walks, which riders can easily explore, reach and enjoy.

The province also boasts of the championship-class Quirino Watersports Complex, which is arguably the best in northern Luzon, and has a wake park, a winch lagoon, and tourist facilities for events and overnight stays.

ban-focused researchers, planners, and policy advocates to examine strategies to make cities more equitable and resilient in the post-pandemic era. This is the 52nd Annual ICUA of the Urban Affairs Association. Rosete, a former director and chief administrative officer of the City of Manila’s Urban Settlements Office (MUSO) and the only Filipino presenter in the conference, discussed studies, evaluations, and recommendations for the better implementation of Manila’s Land for the Landless Housing Services Program (LLP) After Forty Years: Basis For Intervention On Development Plan, which helps in eradicating poverty in all forms in the country’s capital. The program aims to provide aid to tenants/occupants of lands, landed estates, and haciendas in the city of Manila for them to acquire the lands where their houses were built and ensure that these areas are safe, secure, and healthy. He also shared Malabon City government’ local strategies including housing/ relocation programs and a department created to focus on implementing projects that provide safer and better homes for the residents.

Former Miss Earth Quirino Xyra Ballesteros, who participated in the Quirino Motorismo, strikes a pose at the Bundok ng Susong Dalaga.

Members of the Republica Filipina Reenactment Group (RFRG) during the unveiling of the historical landmarks near Mt. Puray in Montalban.

Malabon City administrator Alexander Rosete

WEDNESDAY, MAY 1, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE

WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

LEADING broadcast company GMA Network clinched the 15th spot in the Tubular Leaderboard Worldwide Rankings in March 2024, making it the highest-ranking media company in Southeast Asia. The list boasts of global content powerhouses, such as Walt Disney, Paramount, Warner Bros., Moonbug (Cocomelon), and Sony Pictures.

For the same period, GMA Network’s consolidated data from its official News and Entertainment accounts on Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube amassed 3,578,640,774 video views, ahead of ABS-CBN’s 2,450,406,260.

On Facebook, GMA tallied 2,012,720,557 video views, while ABSCBN registered 1,155,212,390. On TikTok, the Kapuso Network reached 857,054,658 views over ABS-CBN’s 541,692,980. On YouTube, GMA recorded

SHOWBIZ

GMA Network tops Southeast Asia’s Tubular media leaderboard ranking

708,865,559 video views.

Data from Tubular also showed impressive

Conan Gray’s ‘Found Heaven Tour’ hits Manila

CONAN Gray has announced the Asian leg of his Found Heaven on Tour, with a stop in Manila happening on Aug. 25 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The tour kicks off on Aug. 23 at the LaLaLa Festival in Jakarta and will visit nine cities across Asia, including Hong Kong, Taipei, Singapore, Bangkok, Seoul, Tokyo, and Osaka.

The announcement comes hot on the heels of the critical and commercial success of Gray’s latest album, Found Heaven. Released in April, the album debuted at #2 on the Billboard Album Sales Chart and #14 on the Billboard 200 Chart.

Filled with thirteen tracks that pay homage to 80’s pop, “Found Heaven features previously released hit singles like “Alley Rose,” “Lonely Dancers,” and “Never Ending Song.”

In the past five years, Gray has soared as a prominent pop star and songwriter, celebrated for his genuine lyrics and creative flair. His hits “Heather” and “Maniac” have dominated streaming platforms, influencing Gen Z culture globally.

Gray’s debut album, Kid Krow, reached #5 on Billboard Top 200 in 2020, marking the year’s biggest new artist debut.

In 2022, his sophomore album, Superache, clinched another Top 10 spot on the US Billboard 200 and achieved success in various countries. Garnering over 15 billion streams.

Gray’s headline tours in 2022 drew massive crowds, including sold-out shows at iconic venues like Radio City Music Hall and the Greek Theatre. In 2023, he mesmerized audiences at Lollapaloozas across Latin America and Outside Lands, teasing a new musical chapter.

For the Manila leg of his concert, Live Nation PH Members’ Pre-Sale is on Monday, May 6, from 12:00 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. local time. Finally, the General On-sale will start on May 7 at 12:00 p.m. local time. For more information, you may visit the LNPH website at www.livenation.ph Fans with Mastercard can secure their tickets before the general public sale. The presale window starts on May 4, 10:00 a.m. local time until May 6, 10:00 a.m. local time. Mastercard cardholders also get preferred access during the general sale on May 7, 12:00 p.m. local time. Visit www.priceless.com/music for more details.

numbers for GMA’s social media accounts aggregated across its official pages on News, Entertainment, Public Affairs, and other operating business segments, with a cumulative total of more than 395 million subscribers/followers as of March 2024.

Besides social media, netizens also tuned in to GMANetwork. com for the latest news and entertainment updates, resulting in a total of 130 million page views from 25.8 million users year-to-date as of March 31, 2024, according to Google Analytics.

The strong performance of the Kapuso Network’s online portal has consistently placed it among Similarweb’s Top Sites in the Philippines.

PEPE Herrera couldn’t hide his excitement during a press conference on Monday for his film Bantay-Bahay. The comedy-horror flick, shot in 2021 under strict pandemic protocols, is finally hitting the theaters.

“I’m incredibly happy,” Herrera told reporters. “We’ve been waiting for this for so long. We always wondered when it would be released. So finally, it’s going to be shown. I’m just very grateful that we can now share our movie.”

Herrera also praised director Jose Javier for his professionalism and

“I’m looking forward to working with him again because, as I’ve said repeatedly, it’s the best system that I’ve experienced so far. I’m hopeful that many companies will adopt this system. Preeverything. If your pre-production is good, everything else goes smoothly,” he shared.

Reyes, who participated in the press conference via Zoom, echoed his admiration for Herrera.

“I already had so much admiration for Pepe since I’ve seen him in his previous projects and in theater,” he said. “I’ve been working on this

Along

and

and

and

Pepe Herrera trades laughs for scares in ‘Bantay-Bahay’

Very Wang Nickie Wang

material for a while now, and I intentionally created this character for him. He was always in our mind even prior to shooting this.”

Herrera reciprocated the respect, crediting Reyes for creating a positive working environment.

“Direk Joey made me realize how it was possible to work within a specific time,” he said. “His system was the best I’ve ever experienced. I was prepared to be scolded initially, but it turns out he only shouted once, and it was funny. It was the best experience with him, and if there’s a chance, I’d love to work with him again.”

The actor, who considers the late Dolphy

his idol, also expressed his desire to team up with comedian Empoy in a future project. “I haven’t worked with Empoy in a movie yet,” he revealed. “I would like to do a comedy film where we comedians are together.” In Bantay-Bahay , Herrera takes on the role of Caleb, a vlogger and podcaster who house-sits for his girlfriend’s grandmother in a remote rural area. Unbeknownst to Caleb, the seemingly ordinary house harbors a dark secret from the past.

Joining Herrera are Casie Banks, Johannes Rissler, Melizza Jimenez, Karl Gabriel, and Rolando Inocencio Herrera, known for his versatility in both drama and comedy, previously wowed audiences in the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) box-office hit and record-breaker romantic film Rewind , where he played “Lods” (Lord), alongside Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera

“I’m learning every day, I really don’t mind whether it’s a bit role or a starring role. My goal as an actor is to be part of a good project with a great storyline. I’d even be content having cameo or special participation in movie projects,” Herrera said on being cats as a lead star in movies. From Regal Entertainment, Bantay-Bahay starts screening today in cinemas nationwide.

Director Jose Javier Reyes (center) with the cast of ‘BantayBahay’

Actor Pepe Herrera takes on the lead role in Jose Javier Reyes’ ‘Bantay-Bahay’

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

Michael Ver brings out A-game in fitness challenge competition

By Angelica Villanueva

NATIONAL

athlete

and former Pinoy Big Brother housemate

Michael Ver Comaling expressed his hopes to inspire others to bring out the “best in you” as he recently joined a fitness challenge competition.

During his introduction at Century Tuna Superbods 2024 Final Callback event at Ayala Malls Market! Market!, Michael shared that with experiences both in the sports and the entertainment world, he believes that he can encourage people to bring out the best in them.

“As a student, an artist, a Philippine national team, and a Southeast Asian Games medalist in the sport of modern pentathlon, I can inspire you to become the best you ever because I have the burning desire to achieve my goals and dreams in my life,” said Michael.

“Even though I might experience temporary setbacks and failures, I know in my heart that I can win because in my heart, in my mind, and in my body, I’m a Century Superbods,” he added. Michael was one of the members of the

country’s national team in the sport of modern pentathlon who bagged seven gold medals in the UIPM 2023 Southeast Asia Championships last year in Thailand.

During the question-and-answer portion, Century Pacific Food Inc. Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Greg Banzon also asked him what he thinks made him and his group win the sports competition.

The actor-athlete recalled the moment when seasoned actor Richard Gomez had always told them to keep doing their best. He also emphasized how important support was that helped them to bring home the pride in our country.

“Honestly, our competitors at that time, were four years ahead of us. Like, imagine the gap in our training, and how experienced they are, we were just like newbies in the sport in Southeast Asia. And, I can remember Richard Gomez is our coach. He always [tells] me, ‘Do your best. Do everything you can to win’,” shared Michael.

“And I believe, with that kind of coaching, with the people around us, the support that we had from the government, the support that we had from Richard, and all the love and support from my family, I think even though the odds were not in our favor, it made me win the gold medal,” he continued.

Now that he is embarking on a new journey as one of the competitors of Century Tuna Superbods 2024 Best You Ever, with his passion to win, Michael Ver entered the top 18 finalists for the male category.

Competing is not new for Michael as other than carrying the flag during sports events, he also brought pride to the country when he was named as Mister National Universe 2023 third runner-up where he received the title of Mister National Earth 2023.

Aside from Michael, making it to the top 18 for the male category are Nikko Nackaerts, Tony de Oteyza, Angel Mallari, Jerico Ejercito, Jether Palomo, Kris Guevarra, John Jenric Saldivar, Jose Vicente Sobrevilla, Patrick Patawaran, John Paulo Dela Cruz, Carlo Adorador, Aaron Davis, Jeff Ong, Enzo Bonoan, Derick Hibaler, Naia Ching, and Joshua David Spider Webb

Meanwhile, the finalists for the female category are Monique de los Santos, Mariah Nicole Valdez, Justine Felizarta, Brooke Barredo, Lea Macapagal, Hazel Ortiz, Morena Carlos, Chrystel Mae Correos, Jasmin Ariola, Julia SucgangBonoan, Nælah Alshorbaji, Clare Dacanay, Jessica Marasigan, Miaow Ayesa, Keylyn Trajano, Marie Reiss

Completing the Top 18 female Superbods are Schweighart and Inka Magnaye who were announced as the two online wildcard contenders who were automatically named as finalists.

After a rigorous evaluation process including online and onsite auditions, the finalists were selected from hundreds of hopeful applicants, each with a unique and inspiring story to share.

The finalists were then evaluated through a walk-off to showcase their physiques, charisma, and stage presence and a question-and-answer portion to demonstrate their ability to share their fitness advocacies and wits.

“This year, Century Tuna Superbods does what it does best—bringing out the best in individuals. The ‘Best You Ever’ campaign is truly a gamechanger in how we define healthy living in today’s times, as portrayed by every passionate

on a journey to find the mystical island of fireflies based on his mother’s bedtime stories.

The movie won the most awards at the inaugural Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) in Hollywood, California, including the highly coveted Best Picture honor. It also took home Best Screenplay, Best Director, Best Supporting Actress, and three nominations. In the Philippines, Firefly emerged as the powerful underdog at the 9th Metro Manila Film Festival, where it won Best Picture, Best Screenplay, and Best Child Actor among its 15 nominations. The film lit up cinema screens in various cities in the United States, United Arab Emirates, and Canada.

EREHWON Center for the Arts commemorates the 127th death anniversary of Andres Bonifacio the revered hero of the masses, with a free theatrical presentation.

Ang Pagpaslang kay Andres Bonifacio (The Death of Andres Bonifacio), an original musical composed and directed by renowned composer and conductor Jerry Dadap, takes center stage on May 10 at 6:00 p.m. at the Erehwon Center’s grand performance hall.

The musical, conceived as an oratorio, honors the memory of Bonifacio, who met a tragic end despite his significant contributions to the Philippine revolution.

Jerry Dadap, the first Filipino composer to conduct his own music at America’s Carnegie Recital Hall, is known for his powerful and evocative music. Pablo

Tariman, a respected critic, has lauded Dadap’s Bonifacio musical for its ability to “raise patriotic fervor to great emotional heights,” comparing it to the impact of Les Miserables The script for the production is penned by Dionisio Salazar, and the show will be brought to life by the melodious voices of the Andres Bonifacio Choir In keeping with Erehwon’s mission as a people’s art center, admission to the event is entirely free. This aligns with the Center’s commitment to making art and cultural events accessible to a broad audience. Erehwon has consistently opened its doors to various free shows, attracting students, residents of Villa Beatriz (the community where Erehwon is located), senior citizens, and people from diverse backgrounds.

by child star Euwenn Mikaell and award-winning actress Alessandra de Rossi, the film that debuted on the platform on

Young star Euwenn Mikaell won the Best Child

MAY 1, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, ANGELICA VILLANUEVA,

Proudly made in the Philippines

Kultura showcases Filipino design excellence

By Nickie Wang

KULTURA Filipino Design

Studio: Made in the Philippines returns this year as a celebration of community, uniting brands with a shared dedication to highlighting Filipino culture.

With over 70 participating brands, including guest labels, in-house artisans, and social enterprises, the event promises a vibrant array of offerings – from classic Barong Tagalog and contemporary Filipiniana attire to chic resort wear, artisanal accessories, and exquisite home décor.

This year’s edition places a strong emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility. Many participating brands are committed to eco-friendly practices and supporting local artisans.

Happening from May 2 to May 9 at Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, the event trains the spotlight on “purpose-driven products” – brands handpicked for their dedication to ecofriendly practices and support for local artisans. For instance, Hibla PH, a social enterprise, offers apparel crafted from authentic Philippine textiles and hosts workshops on activities like upcycling accessories and bracelet weaving.

Similarly, Ruyág Native Products Manufacturing employs

Bicolano artisans to

create bags from natural materials, minimizing their carbon footprint. Likha+Mundo, a home decor brand, scouts small craft businesses nationwide, amplifying their reach.

This season’s showcase will highlight handmade jewelry by Virtucio Fashion Designs and Mjorian, Filipiniana-inspired pieces by Raquel’s Piña Cloth Products, C&C Lifestyle, and Handwoven Beauty, as well as home essentials by Woven, Dwellbeing, and WIX Cozy Homes.

Among the guest brands are Adela Puls, known for handcrafted bags embracing slow fashion, and Amber & Anne, offering colorful embroidered placemats and coasters. Also featured is And Again Clothing, creating fashionable apparel sustainably made from upcycled materials.

Binibini Marikit presents everyday apparel inspired by Filipino heritage, while Brave Story embraces slow fashion with limited quantity, locally sourced textiles. D’ Bayong Art Gallery offers vibrant pandan bayong bags hand-painted by local artists, and Dwellbeing advocates upcycling through its natural personal care products.

Ethnique brings colorful beachwear and bags reflecting Filipino culture. Idyllic Summers introduces handmade apparel inspired by European and East Asian garments, woven by skilled artisans. HandwovenBeauty partners with local weavers to create traditional and modern Inabel Filipiniana pieces.

House brands like A-M and Ayesha Gemstones, Agsam Fashion Fern, and Anmari & Co. also feature unique products

THERE has been a running joke among our colleagues: “A meeting without food should just be an email.”

You can also perceive that in the way we greet people. In the Philippines, we don’t say “Mabuhay”; instead, we say “Kumain ka na ba?” or “Tara, kain tayo.” We offer food even to strangers.

That probably encapsulates the central role of food in Filipino culture. Whether it is a quick break for employees at the small office pantry, a meeting with clients, a tweet-up with online friends, or a gettogether with friends, food is always omnipresent.

For many of us, especially among the working class, food is about sustenance. When you have mouths to feed and time is always of the essence, you just grab and take what is available. This might also be the reason turo-turo and carinderia became popular in the country. People flock because they serve cheap, filling dishes with generous servings, but sometimes they are not up to standard. Generally, food is a language that brings people together. Just imagine how sharing a load of bread, a plate of pasta, a spoonful of ice cream, or just a bucket of popcorn between two individuals can change the dynamic and quality of their relationships. Food is meant to be shared. Food is something that needs to be savored, to be enjoyed, and to be appreciated.

As a foodie, my appreciation of food increases when I hear culinary stories and learn how certain dishes are prepared. Paired with great company and good conversations

around the table, it would certainly be a higara (a Hiligaynon word that means social relations) to remember.

Food historian Felice Sta. Maria Prudente explained higara as a term that expresses how Filipinos like to eat with each other.

To cap the Filipino Food Month celebration, three remarkable Filipina chefs showcased their culinary talents and advocacies in a special gastronomic event, dubbed Higara:

A Night of Filipino Food Culture, a six-hand dinner featuring Filipina chefs, at the Sheraton Hotel, Manila.

Chefs Waya Araos-Wijangco, Gel Salonga-Datu, and Rhea Castro-Sycip curated a special menu highlighting Filipino cuisine with contemporary takes.

Araos-Wijangco’s appetizer, Pinikpikan Rillette, impressed what the diners and special guests could expect at the six-hand dinner hosted by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the Department of Tourism, and the Department of Agriculture.

When I heard the word pinikpikan, I anticipated a soup dish because that is how we eat it in our home in Baguio. We don’t often cook it unless there is a ritual (especially for a funeral and memorial) or a special occasion. When we prepare pinikpikan, no one can leave the house to avoid accidents and bad luck.

Most people avoid eating it because of the controversial way of preparing

Exploring the heart of Filipino culture through food

it. The chicken is battered until its blood coagulates and slowly dies, and then it is burned. The coagulated blood and smokiness give it a distinct flavor.

For the special dinner, Chef Araos-Wijangco gave a different interpretation of pinikpikan. She prepared it using the French way of slow-cooking the meat with aromatics and submerging it in

its fats. She reduced the soup into an aspic and shredded and molded the meat into a loaf.

The dish was served with bignay wine gelee, tapuy (rice wine), and strawberry compote, with cherry tomatoes, red radish, and shishito as garnishes.

For the next appetizer, chef Salonga-Datu presented her take on kulawo, a salad often found in Southern Tagalog provinces, particularly Laguna and Quezon. For her Kulawo Salad with burnt coconut dressing, she used foraged greens like pako and alugbati, typical produce of the region. For this salad, the components of kulawo are used as a dressing to bring the ingredients together.

The main dishes were the Banguingui Sulu Marlin and the Kalderetang Pato.

For the marlin dish, chef AraosWijangco used Indo-Pacific blue marlin from Bucutua and Banguingui in Sulu, which has been harvested to order, line-caught, and packed in ice from Sulu, and air-flown from Zamboanga.

I’m all for the sustainable, farmto-table way of eating. It gives a different dimension to enjoying food.

Chef Sycip presented a deconstructed version of kaldereta, a Filipino stew with a rich tomato base, cooked with a choice of protein and vegetables. For this dish, she used pato, or duck meat.

On the plate was pan-roasted magret de canard (flash-seared duck

breast), with tomato kalderata sauce, piperade, and green pea mousse, with fondant potatoes and glazed carrots, which she sourced from the Progressive Farmers of Zambales.

To give a sweet ending to the dinner, chefs Salonga-Datu and Sycip prepared desserts: – Bibingka Cheesecake and Binaki.

Chef Sycip showed her take on the traditional Binaki, a type of sweet corn tamales famous in Bukidnon and Cagayan de Oro. For her modern take, she served the corn cakes with coconut panna cotta, white chocolate popcorn mousse, corn gelee, and burnt corn husk meringue, topped with Tinigib (a corn variety) dust.

“As we enjoy this exquisite dinner tonight, let us not only indulge in the culinary delights but also reflect on the importance of preserving and promoting Filipino food culture from a local to a global perspective. Let us celebrate the extraordinary talent of our Filipina chefs and express our gratitude to the women farmers and fisherfolks whose hard work has made this evening possible,” said chef Jose Antonio Miguel Melchor, the president and founder of the Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement. The dining experience was heightened with performances from multi-awarded artistsinger Bayang Barrios, Angeli Benipayo, Banda Kawayan, and Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group

Chef Gel Salonga-Datu’s Bibingka Cheesecake incorporates the western dessert with that of the local delicacy

showcasing Philippine cultural heritage. Learn more about the event on @KulturaFilipino Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Haspe Design Studio features decorations made from locally sourced wooden materials

Kara De Juan’s line of products are made ethically from discarded carabao horns

Theo & Philo Artisan Chocolates are made from Davao cacao beans with each bar bearing a distinct Pinoy flavor

Anmari & Co.’s bags are handcrafted using natural materials like rattan

Flutter Statement Jewelry offers handcrafted statement accessories made by skilled Filipinas

Glazing Life

Glaiza Lee

The ‘Higara: A Night of Filipino Food Culture’ featured a dinner curated by Filipina chefs, highlighting Filipino cuisine with a contemporary touch

Chef Waya AraosWijangco’s version of the pinikpikan was served with bignay wine gelee, tapuy (rice wine), and strawberry compote, garnished with cherry tomatoes, red radish, and shishito