Manila Standard - 2024 May 13 - Monday

Look out for China ‘Trojan horses’

Apply visa curbs on all Chinese nationals, solon urges DFA

By Rio N. Araja

THE Department of Foreign Affairs should expand its policy of stricter controls on Chinese nationals applying for a visa to include students, businessmen and workers, and must be “on the lookout for Trojan horses,” a senior lawmaker on Sunday said.

“I am urging the DFA and our diplomatic posts in China to apply these stricter rules on all China’s nationals applying for whatever type of visa, whether they are businessmen, tourists, workers, or students,” Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez said.

By Vince Lopez

According to PCG spokesman for WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela, two smaller patrol vessels—BRP Cabra and BRP Malabrigo— have also been doing rotational deployment in the same area to help the government document Beijing’s alarming expansionist agenda. Tarriela said that they have monitored a total of 34 Chinese Maritime Militia Vessels on Escoda Shoal with the People’s Liberation Army

House to begin plenary debates on rice law amendments

By Rio N. Araja

ease the financial stress of millions of ordinary Filipino consumers.

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the creation of a “Special Committee on Human Rights Coordination” to carry out Administrative Order No. 22 which aims to enhance the mechanisms for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Philippines.

Marcos forms special committee to promote, protect human rights PBBM to First Lady Liza: A heartfelt appreciation

The special committee is chaired by the Executive Secretary and cochaired by the Department of Justice (DOJ) secretary with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the De-

THE House of Representatives will begin plenary debates this week on a bill amending the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL), a critical measure aimed at substantially reducing rice prices to

Speaker Martin Romualdez said the legislative chamber would double its effort to hasten the plenary discussions and secure the bill’s approval on second reading by Wednesday, May 15.

“We recognize the urgency of addressing the challenges faced by consumers due to high rice prices. Through these plenary debates, we are taking decisive action to bring about meaningful change and ease the financial strain

Pacquiao to ally with Partido Federal for 2025 polls

By Vince Lopez

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed his heartfelt appreciation to all mothers, including his wife, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, for their compassion and sacrifices this Mother’s Day.

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

In the post on all of his social media pages on Sunday, President Marcos honored all mothers for their sacrifices

We take this moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for the selfless sacrifices they make every day to nurture and care for their families. Their love and guidance pave the way for brighter futures and stronger communities.

—Vice President Sara Duterte

FORMER senator Manny Pacquiao will stage a comeback in next year’s elections as part of the administration’s slate.

Pacquiao also said he will run under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP).

Mr. Marcos earlier introduced Pacquiao as “magbabalik na senador”

when he acknowledged the former eight-division world boxing champ at the distribution of financial aid to fisherfolk and farmers in General

Thank you for your patience and selflessness, and for building loving homes and loving communities for all of us. Saludo kami sa inyo! (We salute you!)

—Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri MOTHER’S DAY MESSAGES

Mothers are the foundation of every Filipino family… They offer wisdom in quiet moments and resilience when faced with challenges, profoundly shaping both our lives and our communities.

—House Speaker Martin Romualdez

MOM LIZA’S DAY. The First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos celebrates Mother’s Day with a photo with the President and her three sons. PCO

PYROMUSICAL AT SM MOA. SM Mall of Asia welcomes the return of the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition, the biggest and brightest show in the world. Remarkable displays of fireworks and music from the Philippines and the Netherlands captivated audiences on May 11 and will be held every Saturday until June 8, 2024.

ISLAND-BUILDING. Chinese vessels were monitored in Sabina (Escoda) shoal undertaking activities which the Philippine Coast Guard warned could be a prelude to islandbuilding activities. Screengrab from GMA

A2 NEWS

on their number.

“Let us have a more comprehensive and stringent vetting of Chinese visa applicants for the sake of peace and order in the country, and our national security. Let us be on the lookout for Trojan horses among them,” he added. Many Chinese nationals, he said, have entered the country as employees of Philippine overseas gaming operators (POGOs), and are involved in illicit activities, such as murder, extortion and abduction.

The Bureau of Immigration, for its part, said tightening the visa requirements for Chinese tourists would also help protect the country’s national security.

BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval, in

a radio interview, said while tourism is important to the economy, public interest must also be considered.

“We also have to look into the national security issue, the safety of the country. If there are illegal activities, I think it’s also important to have strict measures if we see anything different happening or activities that are probably inimical to national security or public interest,” she said.

Sandoval made the statement following concerns raised by the Philippine Travel Agencies Association, which warned the new visa policy could “discourage tourism and hurt businesses.”

Rodriguez, however, noted that a number of Chinese nationals are even suspected to be spying for their government, including students who have reportedly enrolled in schools in Ca -

gayan province -- which is near Taiwan -- and those working in POGOs.

The lawmaker’s bill banning POGO operations has already been approved by the House committee on games and amusement.

Cagayan Rep. Joseph Lara likewise expressed concern over the influx of Chinese students in his province.

He said influx started after the government identified a naval base in Sta. Ana town in Cagayan as an additional site for Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement activities with the United States.

Rodriguez called on the DFA, BI and the Commission on Higher Education to conduct an inventory of Chinese citizens studying in universities not only in Cagayan but in neighboring Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya and the Cordillera Region in the wake of conflicting reports

According to the Immigration bureau, some 1,516 Chinese citizens were granted student visas in Cagayan in 2023. Lara, on the other hand, claimed there were over 4,000 Chinese students in the province.

Even if the BI figure of 1,516 is the correct number, Rodriguez said “that is still a large concentration of Chinese students in one province.”

CHED should find out what attracted Chinese students to the Northern Luzon province, and look into whether there is the same pattern of Chinese student migration to other EDCA sites and other colleges and universities across the country, he said.

“This is a matter of national security and should be investigated by the authorities immediately,” Rodriguez added.

rently, rice retails between P40-45 and sometimes exceeds P50.

on Filipino households,” he said.

Plenary debates will commence once the RTL amendment bill is sponsored by the committee on agriculture and food, chaired by Quezon District Rep. Mark Enverga.

Last Tuesday, the panel approved the substitute measure for the consolidated bills filed in the House of Representatives. The proposal aims to bolster the competitiveness and resilience of the rice industry while ensuring affordable access to the essential staple for all Filipinos.

The committee approval came a day after President Marcos expressed his intention to certify the bill amending RTL as urgent.

Romualdez said the intention was to have the RTL amended by July in a bid to lower rice prices to less than P30 to make rice more affordable for every Filipino family. Cur-

The substitute bill seeks to restore the National Food Authority’s (NFA) role in managing the country’s rice supply chain under the proposed amended RTL.

Enacted in 2019, the RTL replaced quantitative restrictions on imported rice with tariffs, establishing the Rice Competitive Enhancement Fund (RCEF). It removed the NFA’s market intervention powers, affecting public access to affordable rice varieties.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is advocating for amendments to the RTL. One of its recommendations is to adjust the RCEF from P10-billion to P15-billion, according to information released by Malacañang.

The DA also seeks to enhance the NFA’s role in stabilizing rice prices, regulating supply, and supporting agricultural modernization initiatives through increased funding and strategic interventions.

in the Philippines.

The UNJP is set to expire on July 31.

Santos City.

Pacquiao said his political party— PROMDI—will form an alliance with the PFP.

The former senator ran for president in 2022 but lost, placing third with 3.6 million votes. In the previous elections, he was part of the splinter group of PDPLaban which separated from the bloc al-

lied with then-President Rodrigo Duterte.

The alliance aims to strengthen their respective platforms and widen their reach among voters, Pacquiao said.

“I fully support the government’s administration programs for countryside development. It is crucial to prioritize the development of our provinces and rural areas, ensuring that every Filipino has access to opportunities and basic services,” Pacquiao said.

Through sustainable and inclusive development, the former senator said

that strengthened the family and the society as a whole.

“To our wonderful mothers, single moms, fathers who play the role of mother, and to everyone who stands up as a mother, I want to convey that your tireless love and sacrifices light up our lives and strengthen us in our society,” he said.

“Today, we celebrate each one of you. Happy Mother’s Day!” he added.

In a separate post, Mr. Marcos recognized and thanked his wife, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, for her strength and compassion, as well as her dedication to defending their family, adding that their family is lucky to have the First Lady by their side.

“To this dear lady, who not only fills our home with love but stands ready to

Navy vessels and helicopters and four other China Coast Guard vessels.

What the PCG is “extensively monitoring,” Tarriela said, are the three Chinese Research vessels, including its “mother boat” that receive data and information from two small boats swarming around Escoda Shoal apparently conducting exploratory activities.

Tarriela said that they have already sent rigid hull inflatable boats to intercept, or at least get closer to the Chinese vessels.

Chester Cabalza, president of Manila-based think tank International Development and Security Cooperation, meanwhile said China’s supposed reclamation attempt in Escoda Shoal “is a threat to Philippine security.”

Cabalza, quoted by ABS CBN News, said China has been eyeing Escoda as an extension of Panganiban Reef (Mischief Reef), which Chinese forces occupied in 1995.

“There were attempts in the past years where Beijing wanted to possess the shoal considering its strategic value to their claims in the South China Sea,” Cabalza told ABS-CBN News.

“The tendency is, of course, it becomes a buffer zone. If there is trouble, they are so close to us,” he added.

Following a three-week survey, Tarriela earlier said crushed corals had been discovered dumped at Escoda.

He said the dumping may be a prelude to the emergence of an artificial island.

Escoda is a barangay and part of the Kalayaan Group of Islands, according to Cabalza.

“This is an attempt by China to deliberately occupy a shoal that is administratively, geographically and legally owned by the province of Palawan,” Tarriela, quoted by ABS CBN News, said.

The Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague in 2016 rejected the basis for nearly all of China’s expansive maritime and territorial claims in the South China Sea.

It determined that China’s “nine-dash line” maritime claim was inconsistent with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and that Beijing had violated the Philippines’ sovereign rights within its 200-nauticalmile exclusive cconomic zone.

“we can uplift the lives of our fellow countrymen and build a stronger, more prosperous nation for all.”

He said his inclusion in the administration’s ticket will add “a significant boost to the ruling party’s lineup.” Pacquiao earlier welcomed the President at the said event in General Santos City. Pacquiao had expressed his commitment to serving the Filipino people, highlighting his advocacy for sports development, anti-corruption measures, and social welfare programs.

defend her family at any turn -- happy Mother’s Day! We are incredibly lucky to have you on our side,” the Chief Executive said.

“Your strength and compassion not only safeguard our family but also uplift our entire nation,” he added.

The First Couple got married in Italy on April 17, 1993. They are blessed with three sons, Senior House Deputy Majority Leader Sandro, Joseph Simon, and William Vincent.

partment of Interior and Local Government (DILG) secretaries as members.

Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin signed AO 22 on May 8. It will take effect immediately upon its publication in the Official Gazette, or a newspaper of general circulation. Prior to this, the President highlighted the significance of maintaining and intensifying the accomplishments of the United Nations for the Joint Program on Human Rights (UNJP) through the institutionalization of a strong and healthy multi-stakeholder process for the promotion and protection of human rights

“It is imperative to sustain and enhance the accomplishments under the UNJP, which is set to expire on the 31st of July, through institutionalization of a robust multi-stakeholder process for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Philippines,” the President said in his AO.

The Philippines is a State Party to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

This prompted the creation of the Presidential Human Rights Committee (PHRC) to comply with its obligations

to international human rights groups.

The PHRC is also tasked to formulate a National Human Rights Action Plan. Consistent with the government’s efforts to strengthen mechanisms for the promotion and protection of human rights mechanisms in the country, the Philippines also partnered with the UNJP to engage in capacity-building and technical cooperation in the areas of law enforcement, criminal justice, and policy-making in the Philippines. The PHRC Secretariat will serve as the secretariat of the special committee, which is tasked to provide the necessary technical, administrative, and operational support to the committee “in-charge of sustaining initiatives and

accomplishments of the UNJP in the areas of law enforcement, criminal justice, and policy-making.”

Duties and functions of the special committee include efforts to conduct of investigation and accountability; data-gathering on alleged human rights violations by law enforcement agencies; expanding civic space and engagement with private sector; National Mechanisms for Implementation, Reporting and Follow-up; and human rights-based approach towards drug control. It is also tasked to implement human rights-based approach towards counterterrorism.

The Special Committee is also tasked to “monitor and ensure effective im-

plementation of government policies and programs aimed at upholding and protecting human rights of persons deprived of liberty, particularly in guaranteeing that no one is subjected to torture and other cruel, inhumane or degrading treatment of punishment.”

National government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, and local government units and the private sector are directed and urged, respectively to render full support and assistance to the implementation of AO 22. A copy of the AO 22 is accessible on the Official Gazette where other functions of the special committee are indicated.

WINNERS ALL. Ms. Irha Mel Alfeche of Matanao, Davao del Sur was crowned Miss Philippines Earth 2024. She will represent the country in Miss Earth 2024. Her elemental court includes: #Air - Feliz Clareianne Thea Recentes of Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte, #Water - Samantha Dana Bug-os of Baco, Oriental Mindoro; #Fire - Kia Labiano of Titay, Zamboanga Sibugay; and #EcoTourism - Ira Patricia Malaluan of Batangas City The contest was held at Municipality of Talakag, Province of Bukidnon.

ININBRIEFBRIEF

PBBM order vs. vape, tobacco smuggling cited

ZAMBALES Rep. Jay Khonghun backs President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify efforts against smuggling of tobacco and vape products, saying it is a significant step toward protecting public health and upholding the rule of law.

Khonghun called on the departments of finance, and trade and industry to help the Chief Executive, adding that smuggling has been eroding the government’s economic gains.

“It is crucial that we address and end the rampant smuggling of tobacco and vape products, which not only poses health hazards to our citizens but also undermines the efforts of legitimate businesses and deprives the government of much-needed revenue,” he said. Rio N. Araja

6,879 Pinoy nursing grads take US exams this year

A TOTAL of 6,879 Filipino nursing graduates took the United States licensure tests for the first time from January to March 2024 with the hope of landing jobs in America, according to Quezon City Rep. Marvin Rillo, vice chairman of the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education.

“We expect a large number of Philippine nursing graduates to persist in pursuing their career aspirations in America and other foreign labor markets as long as we continue to underpay them here at home,” Rillo said in a statement issued on International Nurses Day.

The world celebrates the contributions of nurses to society every May 12 , birthday of Florence Nightingale, founder of modern nursing.

“Congress must substantially upgrade the starting base pay of our nurses now if we want to retain at least some of them for our public hospitals,” Rillo said.

AO 21 will make gov’t housing more affordable for the poor, says Acuzar

By Rio N. Araja

HOUSING Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar on Sunday said the government’s massive housing program will gain added momentum with an administrative order issued recently by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

The chief of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development said Administrative Order (AO) 21 would be very beneficial to “poor Filipinos who continue to dream of owning a house of their own.”

“I am very happy with the continuous support of our President Bongbong Marcos, as well as other government agencies, to solve the

bottlenecks in the implementation of National Housing and other development programs of the government,” Acuzar said.

“This AO is a big thing for our poor countrymen who are always in the mind of the dear President... our housing will become more affordable due to the allocation of land by the government in 4PH,” he added.

AO 21directed the entire bureaucracy to ensure the optimal use of government lands in support to national development goals.

Signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on April 30, the presidential order aims to “strategically manage and optimize the utilization of the country’s land resources by consolidating a comprehensive list of all government lands.”

It defines government lands as idle or abandoned lands or those that are no longer used for the purpose for which they have been reserved or acquired; lands that are already titled or have yet to be titled under the name of the government; and other lands that will be prescribed under the AO.

PCO joins socmed firms to combat disinformation

By Vince Lopez

THE Presidential Communications Office (PCO) has joined forces with giant social media companies in the Philippines for concerted efforts to combat misinformation and disinformation.

PCO Undersecretary for Digital Media Services (DMS) Emerald Ridao underscored the need to put an end to misinformation and disinformation within the “digital sphere” against government programs and certain individuals.

“We are starting with our digital defense today because it is very clear to us that misinformation and disinformation campaigns against the government programs, and against

the persons within the administration are increasingly prevalent,” Ridao said during the UniComm 2024 gathering held at the Bayleaf in Intramuros, Manila.

“And so, we’re hoping that together we can ban and really put an end to this problem within our digital sphere,” she added.

The “Tech Talks” during the UniComm 2024 served as a rallying point for stakeholders from both the government and private sectors to unite in the fight against digital misinformation.

Discussions during the UniComm delved into strategies to fortify digital defenses amid the rising tide of misinformation campaigns targeting government officials and state pro -

grams. Present during the event were officials from META, Google, and TikTok who shared their invaluable insights and expertise on various aspects, particularly on combatting misinformation and disinformation.

META public manager Genixon David reminded the public to always keep their social media accounts secured.

“As much as possible, let’s make our password strong and unique,” David said, adding that the public should avoid using their name, birthday, address or other identified as their passwords, and avoid re-using password in multiple accounts to avoid being compromised.

Groups seek free anti-flu vaccines for senior citizens

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

AN ALLIANCE of welfare groups presses the government to provide free flu vaccines to seniors citizens

While the government had increased senior citizen discounts on basic goods, the welfare groups asserted that the lack of free health services like vaccines for the elderlies who are “most vulnerable “are badly needed.

Ricardo Samaniego, founder of the Philippine Coalition of Consumer Welfare Inc., noted that the low vaccine uptake was primarily due to lack of public awareness and the high cost of vaccines.

He said the government’s free vaccination program stands as their only means of protection against vaccine-preventable diseases.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Roderick Alapar, lead convenor of Bayan Bakuna, said seniors “have the right to receive lifesaving vaccines for free.”

He said the government needs to start strengthening immunization efforts for the elderlies to promote a healthy aging society.

Ex-Duterte adviser to be invited to hearing

By Rio N. Araja

SURIGAO del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers on Sunday said Michael Yang, an alleged drug lord and presidential economic adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte, will be invited to the next House hearing in connection with the P3billion drug bust in Mexico, Pampanga in 2023.

“This matter has now gone from a simple illegal drug smuggling to a national security concern. We need to establish the link between these companies and Michael Yang, the financier of Pharmally. It is not as simple as it seems. These personalities and their interests are so intertwined and intricately woven in an

elaborate multi-layered company structure that resembles a maze deliberately designed to avoid detection and ultimate liability in case the scheme is discovered,” he said.

Barbers , who chairs the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, further said, “The activities of the other companies

have not been unearthed yet but the incorporators have gone into hiding already and have started disposing their assets. There is more than meets the eye. We intend to get to the bottom of this issue in order to find out if indeed the drug bust is just the tip of the iceberg.”

“The connection of alleged drug lord Michael Yang to these drug activities is no surprise. Remember that in the past administration, he was named by a top official of the PNP who was then tasked to investigate illegal drug activities. It was discovered that the one on top of the drug trade was Michael Yang,” he said. In a series of hearings, Empire 999, the company that owned the warehouse where the drugs were ordered stored, was found to belong to some Chinese nationals who also owned other shell companies, along

with other personalities who had been previously linked to anomalous activities under the past administration.

On May 8, Lincoln Ong, the controversial figure in the Pharmally scandal and interpreter of Yang, was found to be an incorporator of a company with links to other companies including Empire 999.

“I always say that we have no problems with Chinese nationals doing legitimate business in our country. But doing these illegal drug activities is another story. We have extended all invitations to these people and observed due process. They never showed up. Even the National Bureau of Investigation could not locate them. There is a saying that flight is indicative of guilt. If they are really innocent, we urge them to come out and explain their roles in the labyrinth they created,” Barbers said.

Romblon faces outbreak, three dead due to rabies

By Manolo del Rio

AN APPARENT outbreak of rabies in Romblon province has so far caused at least three human deaths and has prompted local authorities to launch a massive vaccination campaign to contain the disease’s spread. The rabies-eradication effort is currently focused on the province’s largest island of Tablas, where several government agencies have teamed up with private sector partners to inoculate an estimated 20,000 domesticated dogs.

As of Thursday, only about 10,000 animals have received their shots, according to the Field Epidemiology Program Foundation (FEPF), a non-government organization currently collaborating with the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) and the Provincial Health Office (PVO).

Veterinarian Dr. Mary Elizabeth Miranda, who heads the FEPF’s vaccination effort in Romblon, said at least 60 dogs

have tested positive for the rabies virus since an initial case was detected in 2022. Prior to this time, it was believed that Romblon had been rabies-free for a number of years, she noted. She speculated that rabies may have reentered the province through infected dogs that were transported inland aboard ferries or fishing boats.

“The only way to contain the virus is to vaccinate as many dogs as possible. Pet owners must also be reminded to keep their dogs inside their properties so they don’t come into contact with potentially sick strays,” said Miranda. It can be recalled that the neighboring province of Marinduque has been battling a rabies outbreak of its own for several months now. Miranda said that government veterinarians from Marinduque have arrived in Romblon to provide assistance and swap technical insights on the disease, which remains 100 percent fatal once symptoms manifest.

IN BRIEF

NHA awards housing to 109 families

NATIONAL Housing Authority (NHA) general manager Joeben Tai has led the awarding of housing units to 109 families who were victims of the armed conflict between government forces and the Moro National Liberation Front (Misuari) Zamboanga City.

Under the NHA’s mandate, calamity victims are entitled to safe, comfortable and calamity-resilient homes through the agency’s calamity housing program, alongside efforts to establish sustainable communities within resettlement sites through the provision of livelihood programs, employment opportunities and skills-enhancement sessions, he said.

Located in Barangay Sta. Barbara, Zamboanga City, the Ayer Village Subdivision phase III, which features two-story houses with a kitchen, toilet and bath, bed, living and dining rooms, and a service/ laundry area, will be the new community of the beneficiaries. Before the awarding ceremony, Tai inspected the site to ensure the quality of the housing project.

He said calamity victims are also supported by the Emergency Housing Assistance Program and other program aimed at providing cash grants.

Recently, 438 fire-victim families in Muntinlupa City each received P10,000 worth of cash assistance in a distribution activity. Rio N. Araja

Reservists lauded at PAF recognition day

THE Philippine Air Force (PAF) has recognized the service and contributions of its reservists to nation-building during the Annual PAF Reservists’ Recognition Day held at the Villamor Air Base Golf Course on May 11, 2024.

The convention served as a platform for collaboration, bringing together Reservists from Air Force Wing Reserves and PAF Auxiliary Reserve Units.

It also featured discussions on the latest Reserve Force Development plans and programs, ensuring they remain prepared and integrated into the PAF’s overall strategy. Also, 27 newly Commissioned Reserve Officers officially joined the ranks of the PAF Reserve Force.

PAF commander Lt. Gen. Stephen Parreño led the conferral of the Distinguished Laang Kawal Awards and Special Recognition Awards to deserving Reservists and Reserve Units that significantly contributed to PAF’s overall accomplishments. In his remarks, Parreño conveyed his profound gratitude to all Air Force reservists for their steadfast commitment and unwavering support in advancing the organization’s mission. This event, held as part of the pre-anniversary activities for the 77th PAF Founding Anniversary, was organized by the Air Force Reserve Command and the Office of the Assistant of Chief of Air Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs, OA-9. Vince Lopez

OPINION

Connecting the dots

THE Department of Agriculture. through an assistant secretary, recently said it is “preparing for a more destructive La Nina.”

That line was used when meteorologists warned us about a strong El Nino. Were we prepared enough for El Nino?

Pray tell us, what gives anyone confidence our officials are prepared for La Nina?

If floods and strong rains inundate our palay and corn fields this third quarter, what our NFA calls the “lean months.” what harvest can we expect come September and October?

When landslides destroy our vegetable farms or block the roads that bring the highland produce down to Metro Manila, are we prepared?

The current reaction to El Nino is “ayuda pa more,” and no less than our president is going to El Nino affected-areas to dole out assistance.

Like we keep stating, we have become the Ayuda Republic. “Ayuda,” which is Spanish for aid or help, is about the only thing we can do, as Nature’s fury is unpredictable in its strength and timing. The problem is, what happens when the “fondo para ayudar” dries out? Oh well, there is always “utang pa more.” ***

The Partido Federal, forgotten right after the 2022 victory, has been resurrected and, last week, in a much-ballyhooed “Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas,” the party of Ilocos Norte congressman and presidential son Sandro Marcos and presidential cousin Speaker Romualdez, in the presence of the president as witness, declared their “unified vision” for a new Philippines.

“There are many, many considerations” in the newly-formed alliance, the Speaker said, formed in the run-up to the 2025 mid-term elections, though he added he “would prefer candidates who support Constitutional amendment”. Connect the dots. Cha-cha ain’t dead.

Like 20-peso rice, it is still an “aspiration” devoutly to be pursued.

That is further reinforced when our president declared on the occasion that “we have to make some very, very fundamental structural and policy changes…legislative support is absolutely necessary.”

Again, connect the dots.

Which is why I described in this column last week how important the 2025 mid-term elections are to the administration: “the resurrection of cha-cha and the positioning for 2028.” ***

Maybe that is why FPRRD keeps perorating about what many thought was a stale issue after surveys showed an overwhelming dislike for Constitutional changes now, not even in the near future.

In Dumaguete last week, atop an improvised stage after Mayor Ipe Remollo bowed to pressure from whoever and

cancelled a pre-approved rally permit, Duterte again fumed and railed against cha-cha.

His problem is the PDP has been hollowed out by defections to the “Alyansa ng Bagong Pilipinas,” even as its remaining leaders have publicly declared support for the administration, though ostensibly “respecting” his right to state “personal” sentiments.

But for three re-electionist PDP senators, the “new opposition” slate seems hungry for winnables.

Even the so-called “independents” are being wooed by the Alyansa, which our president reiterates as a continuum of the UniTeam, minus the Davao bloc, I suppose.

How about the yellows, er, pinks?

Their spokespersons have been busy siding with the administration on foreign policy, as it coincides with theirs in their heyday. Their “political analysts” keep predicting the “forthcoming” ICC warrants of arrest on their blogger platforms.

When landslides destroy our vegetable farms or block the roads that bring the highland produce down to Metro Manila, are we prepared?

Will PBbM and Speaker Martin accept their three senatoriables into the “Bagong Pilipinas” Uniteam slate?

***

In a statement that can only be construed as coming from whoever now calls the shots in the administration’s communications office, DOJ spokesman Mico Clavano publicly disclosed they are preparing a brief on the legal options available to President Marcos on the arrest warrants the ICC “may” issue.

“The briefer will be an objective analysis of the pros and cons of each option,” said the able and cool spokesman Boying Remulla chose for his department.

Now that is called preparation. Laying the predicate, or just another threat?

As far as my government experience has shown, “confidential” briefers are not pre-announced, unless the purpose is to threaten the ICC “targets” to behave … or else.

Only a trying-hard-to-be Machiavellian communications officer from the palace can be the author of this warning.

It’s not likely that the politically astute Boying would order spokesman Mico to publicly announce a “confidential” briefer, as in FYEO -- the President.

‘Transformative pivot’ to seize critical mineral opportunity

IN THE recent Mining Conference organized by the Stratbase ADR Institute, in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga underscored a resounding message the Philippines must leverage its status as one of the world’s most mineral-rich nations to drive economic growth and the urgency to develop its mineral resources to match the pace and trajectory towards clean energy.

In her keynote speech, Yulo-Loyzaga said, “It is thus our high priority both government and industry work more constructively together and adopt the mitigation hierarchy to ensure no ecosystem and no community will be left behind, even if this will entail working towards net positive impacts through offsets.”

This statement by the environment Secretary marks what she aptly called a positive and a “transformative pivot” to seize this great opportunity that will benefit the whole country.

Secretary Frederick Go of the Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs in his statement during the conference said the Philippine government “recognizes that mining holds the greatest potential to be a key driver in the Philippine economy and also secure the country’s long-term growth” and their goal to put in place co-

PH-Vietnam cooperation on SCS row

IN

JANUARY

this year, the Philippines and Vietnam agreed to boost cooperation between their coast guards and work to prevent incidents in disputed parts of the South China Sea amid growing Chinese assertiveness in the vital sealane.

The two, which have overlapping maritime claims in the sea, signed two memoranda of understanding.

The first agreement covered “maritime cooperation” between the two nations’ coast guards and the second “incident prevention in the South China Sea.”

The maritime cooperation deal seeks to establish a comprehensive partnership between the two coast guards, which would cover capacity building, training, and personnel and ship exchanges.

The deal on incident prevention binds the two countries to enhance coordination on maritime issues bilaterally, within the Association of

Southeast Asian Nations, and with other dialogue partners.

While these agreements indicate shared interests between the two in managing the territorial disputes in the South China Sea, Hanoi is not expected to follow Manila’s defiant stand against Chinese intimidation and bullying in its Exclusive Economic Zone in the West Philippine Sea.

The Philippines is on the right path in its efforts to muster support from friendly countries such as Vietnam in dealing with China’s aggressive actions in the South China Sea

Nevertheless, as neighboring countries, the Philippines and Vietnam should work more closely to push back against China’s “coercive activities” in the South China Sea, according to a foreign analyst.

After all, our two countries are vulnerable to China’s “divide and

IN THE convolutions of Philippine politics, where shadows dance and whispers of corruption linger like a noxious fog, one man has stood firm against the tide of deceit and malfeasance.

Former Senator Richard J. Gordon, a figure of unwavering resolve, has waged a relentless crusade against the forces of graft and corruption that have plagued the nation’s corridors of power.

With a steely determination, Gordon welcomes the Ombudsman’s long-awaited indictment of Lin Weixiong, a key figure in the labyrinthine web of corruption woven by the Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corporation.

It is a moment of vindication for Gordon, a testament to his unwavering commitment to justice in the face of overwhelming opposition.

But behind the veneer of victory lies a tale of deceit and betrayal that cuts to the heart of the Duterte administration’s complicity in the plunder of the nation’s resources.

Gordon pulls no punches as he lambasts the former head of the Procurement Service-Department of Budget and Management, Lloyd Christopher Lao, and his accomplice, Warren Rex Liong, for their role in awarding multi-billion dollar contracts to Pharmally – a company with a paltry paid-up capital and no track record of government contracts.

hesive and long-term policies so that the mining industry can contribute not only to the country’s economic development, but also to improving the lives of Filipinos.

National Economic and Development

Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, however, said the mining industry has “yet to harness its potential fully.”

Specific reforms agreed upon are: the embedding of a DENR personnel in each mining project to assist in monitoring compliance with various DENR rules and guidelines

He pointed out the Philippines’ “underutilized” mineral resources are valued at 1.6 trillion US dollars, only less than one percent (or 0.17 percent) of the known mineral deposits have been developed for production with the mining industry modestly contributing a mere

“How could the Duterte administration award such lucrative contracts to a company with no history of government dealings?”

half percent (0.5 percent) of our gross domestic product by the end of 2023.

In an unprecedented move during the Mining Conference, the DENR, and the mining industry, represented by the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines, Philippine Nickel Industry Association, Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association, and Philippine Mining and Exploration Association, signed a joint declaration to initiate policy reforms to address the regulatory roadblocks that have chained down the Philippine mining potential for decades.

Grounded on the commitment to sustainable and responsible mining practices, specific reforms agreed upon are: the embedding of a DENR personnel in each mining project to assist in monitoring compliance with various DENR rules and guidelines. Other reforms included the streamlining of the administrative process in the evaluation and issuance of mineral agreements, the digitalization of Exploration Permits and Mineral Production Sharing Agreement applications; development of parallel instead of linear processing of applications with other government agencies to shorten the per-

rule” tactic, according to a news report quoting Alex Vuving, a professor at the Daniel K. Inouye Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies based in Hawaii.

“As smaller countries, the Philippines and Vietnam should work together to alleviate their asymmetry of power with China. They can share their experiences and best practices against coercive activities. As they share the same interest to counter coercive activities, they should cooperate against coercion,” he said. Why is this so? He explained:

“China is far more powerful than all of its neighbors in Southeast Asia. It is not only aware of this fact, it also tries to capitalize on the asymmetry of power it enjoys in relations with the neighbors.

“As a result, China is the source of most of the coercive activities between regional countries. The coercion is played out in several domains from the maritime domain to the economic domain to the cognitive domain.”

Given all this, the Philippines is on the right path in its efforts to muster support from friendly countries such as Vietnam in dealing with China’s aggressive actions in the South China Sea and to protect our mutual interests in the Southeast Asian region.

Breaking chains: Gordon’s struggle for justice

Gordon demands, his voice ringing with righteous indignation. It is a question that echoes through the halls of power, a damning indictment of the corruption that has seeped into the very fabric of Philippine governance.

But it is Lin Weixiong, the elusive puppet master behind Pharmally’s facade of legitimacy, who draws Gordon’s fiercest ire.

Gordon’s question echoes through the halls of power, a damning indictment of the corruption that has seeped into the very fabric of Philippine governance

Evading the Senate’s scrutiny, Lin and his wife luxuriate in the ill-gotten gains of their plunder, ensconced in the opulence of Forbes Park while the Filipino people suffer the consequences of their greed. As Gordon peels back the layers of deception, he exposes a conspiracy that reaches to the highest echelons of government – a shadowy cabal of power brokers and cronies who have enriched

mitting timeline; explore the possibility of honoring IP-initiated Free, Prior, and Informed Consent, develop a mining project prospectus, and provide guidance on lands suitable for exploration.

The DENR committed to coordinate with other government agencies to address industry concerns like exploring the possibility of establishing a fixed royalty rate for IPs and appointing a senior public official from the National Government to assist mining companies.

The DENR will also work towards representation of the mining industry in the MICC.

A joint monitoring and evaluation mechanism on the impact of mining activities on the environment and the socio-economic conditions of affected communities will be developed as well as the documentation and inventory of all the CSR projects of mining companies done beyond the Social Development and Management Program to fairly account for the total ESG contributions to the host communities.

Stratbase ADR Institute President, Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit told the news briefing, “From a policy point of view, I think we need to look

themselves at the expense of the nation’s welfare.

“There was definitely a conspiracy,” Gordon declares, his voice a thunderous rebuke to those who would dare betray the trust of the Filipino people.

Yet, even as Gordon basks in the glow of vindication, he remains ever vigilant, ever determined to unearth the truth hidden beneath the veneer of lies and deception.

He calls for prosecution, for justice to be served swiftly and decisively, lest the sins of the past continue to haunt the nation’s future.

But Gordon’s crusade has not come without sacrifice.

He bears the scars of a battle fought on multiple fronts – harassed, insulted, persecuted, and even threatened with death by those who seek to silence his voice of dissent.

Yet, in the face of adversity, Gordon remains resolute, his unwavering commitment to the principles of justice and the rule of law undiminished.

“We will never back down from fighting corruption,” Gordon declares, his words a rallying cry for all who stand on the side of justice.

“Takot man ako, pero hindi ako duwag,” he asserts, his defiance a pillar of hope in the darkest of times. For in Gordon’s unwavering resolve lies the promise of a brighter future – a future where justice reigns supreme, and the shadows of corruption are banished once and for all.

at all these geoeconomic opportunities. Given, as some would say, the derisking, the globalization, and see ourselves as a possible major player.”

He said “If we transform ourselves from one that is consumption-driven to one that is investment-led growth, which will create jobs, address livelihood for our people” which would need a stable, responsive policy environment in the eyes of ease of doing business and easing trade tariffs to bring in investments. “We need government, the private sector, and investors to really work together and find a common interest, find the common ground to achieve that investment goal for the Filipino nation.”

This was indeed a pivotal event wherein the government represented by the DENR, NEDA, DTI, DILG, DOE, and OSAPIEA; the diplomatic community represented by the Ambassadors of Australia, Canada, Japan, and Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines; the leaders of the mining industry and stakeholders have unanimously committed to accelerate the revitalization and transformation of the Philippine mining sector into the thriving and sustainable economic driver of the country.

Israel hits Gaza after new evacuation order

RAFAH, Palestinian Territories – Israel launched strikes on Gaza Sunday after it expanded an evacuation order for Rafah, with the United Nations warning an outright invasion of the crowded southern city risked an “epic” disaster.

AFP correspondents reported intense

clashes and heavy gunfire from Israeli helicopters near Gaza City. Witnesses said Israel had carried out strikes in Rafah near the crossing with

Egypt on Saturday, and AFP images showed smoke rising over the city.

Israeli troops defied international opposition this week and entered eastern areas of the city, effectively shutting a key aid crossing and suspending traffic through another.

Israel expanded an evacuation order for eastern Rafah, after saying 300,000 people had fled the city since the army urged people to leave earlier in the week.

Residents piled water tanks, mattresses and other belongings onto vehicles and prepared to flee again.

“We don’t know where to go,” said Farid Abu Eida, who was preparing to leave Rafah, having already been displaced there from Gaza City.

“There is no place left in Gaza that is safe or not overcrowded... There’s nowhere we can go.”

Israeli army spokesman Daniel Hagari said “we have eliminated dozens of terrorists in eastern Rafah” and the army said troops were fighting “armed terrorists” at the crossing and had found “numerous underground tunnel shafts”. AFP

Residents were told to go to the “humanitarian zone” of Al-Mawasi, on the coast northwest of Rafah. Hamas accused Israel of “expanding the incursion into Rafah to include new areas in the centre and the west of the city”.

village in Baghlan-e-

Markazi district of Baghlan province during the weekend. More than 300 people were killed in flash flooding in Afghanistan’s northern province of Baghlan, the World Food Program said. AFP

Over 300 dead in Afghanistan floods – WFP

LAQAYI, Afghanistan – More than 300 people were killed in flash floods that ripped through multiple Afghan provinces, the UN’s World Food Program said during the weekend, as authorities declared a state of emergency and rushed to rescue the injured.

Many people remain missing after heavy rains Friday sent roaring rivers of water and mud crashing through villages and across agricultural land in several provinces, causing what one aid group described as a “major humanitarian emergency.

Survivors picked through muddy, debrislittered streets and damaged buildings, an AFP journalist saw, as authorities and non-governmental groups deployed rescue workers and aid, warning that some areas had been cut off by the flooding.

Northern Baghlan province was one of the hardest hit, with more than 300 people killed there alone, and thousands of houses destroyed or damaged, according to WFP.

“On current information: in Baghlan province there are 311 fatalities, 2,011 houses destroyed and 2,800 houses damaged,” Rana Deraz, a communications officer for the United Nations agency in Afghanistan, told AFP.

There were disparities between the death tolls provided by the government and humanitarian agencies.

The UN’s International Organization for Migration said there were 218 deaths in Baghlan. AFP

IN BRIEF

Over 4,000 people evacuated in Kharkiv

MORE than 4,000 people have been evacuated from border areas in Ukraine’s northeastern Kharkiv region, the local governor said on Sunday, following a surprise cross-border Russian offensive there that began on Friday.

“In total, 4,073 people have been evacuated,” governor Oleg Synegubov wrote on social media, a day after Russian forces claimed the capture of five villages in the region.

Synegubov said that on Sunday a 63-yearold man was killed by artillery fire in the village of Glyboke and a 38-year-old man was wounded in Vovchansk, a border town with some 3,000 residents before the current offensive.

Ukraine on Friday announced that Russia had launched an attack in the Kharkiv region, making small advances into a border zone from where it had been pushed back nearly two years ago.

Meanwhile, a Ukrainian drone attack hit a refinery in Russia’s Volgograd region causing a fire at the complex, the regional governor said Sunday.

Russia’s defense ministry said eight overnight drone attacks were intercepted, including one in the southern Volgograd region. AFP

Trump, praising cannibals, draws yawns

WILDWOOD, United States – Former US president Donald Trump raised eyebrows among his no-nonsense New Jersey crowd at a rally Saturday when he recited a 1963 soul song in its entirety and referenced a fictional cannibal as “great.” In a meandering recitation of “The Snake” during a more than 90 minute speech, Trump used the Oscar Brown song to draw a parallel with “illegal immigration and how stupid it is what we’re doing right now.”

“We’re letting people come into our country that we will only be trouble,” said the Republican contender for president.

Trump has drawn on the song several times to highlight his anti-migrant stance, reportedly drawing objections from Brown’s family.

“A tenderhearted woman saw a poor, halffrozen snake,” Trump said, reciting -- but not singing -- the song to the crowd.

“But instead of saying thanks, the snake gave her a vicious bite.”

Trump, who will face Democratic President Joe Biden in November’s polls, is using increasingly violent rhetoric around the country’s migrant crisis.

At the same time, the lengthy recitation of “The Snake” drew a subdued reaction from the crowd of thousands gathered on a beach in Wildwood on the New Jersey shore. AFP

Gaza’s civil defence agency said two doctors were killed Sunday in the central town of Deir al-Balah, while

ROARING RIVERS. Afghan relatives offer prayers during a burial ceremony, near the graves of victims who lost their lives following flash floods after heavy rainfall at a

MONDAY, MAY 13, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Vanguard, Huskers share lead in MPBL

NUEVA Ecija turned hot as Manila cooled in the fourth quarter, handing the Rice Vanguards a 78-62 victory and a share of the lead in the MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League)

Sixth Season elimination round on Saturday at the Nueva Ecija Coliseum in Palayan City.

Flashing the form that made them the 2022 MPBL champion, the Rice Vanguards dropped 21 points behind Mer Jesper Ayaay, Rob Celiz and Michael Juico, in the final frame to tally their fifth straight victory in as many starts, tying them with the Quezon Huskers and the San Juan Knights.

Ayaay a former starter of the Lyceum Pirates, poured 8 of his 14 points in that span, Celiz made 6 of his team-high 18, and Juico 4 of his 15 as Nueva Ecija posted its biggest margin at the buzzer. Manila fell to 4-3, but is expected to recover as it will be bolstered by 7-footer Greg Slaughter and the suspended 6-7 Rabeh Al-Hussaini in its succeeding games.

Other games saw Davao Occidental continue its rise with a 91-55 drubbing of Bulacan, and Paranaque wield fiery form in a 100-67 thrashing of Sarangani.

Elasto Painters bounce back vs. Giga, force sudden

JHONARD Clarito shot 29 points for the Rain or Shine

Elasto Painters as they got past the TNT Tropang Giga, 121-113, on Sunday in the 48th Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup quarterfinals at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Clarito’s triple shattered a 113-all deadlock in the last 1:58 during a final 7-0 spurt by the Elasto Painters.

Andrei Caracut added 21 points, including nine in the last 10 minutes of action, allowing Rain or Shine to

By Peter Atencio

LONG-DISTANCE specialist Richard Salano endured the hot early morning weather, while Christine Hallasgo tried to keep a steady pace under the sweltering conditions on Sunday in the 2024 ICTSI Philippine Athletics Championship at the Philsports oval in Pasig.

The 32-year-old Salano got comfortable with his lucky red rubber shoes, as he claimed his ninth title since he acquired it last November and dominated the men’s open 10,000-meter run.

Salano, whose soles got sore when he used spiked shoes and landed fifth in the 5000-meter run last Wednesday, saw improvements in his time using his lucky shoes as he finished in 31 minutes, and 26.82 seconds.

Being ahead of James Orduna of the University of the East and Hallasgo’s brother Ricky Organiza, allowed Salano to surpass his personal best time in the 2023 South-

tie their best-of-three quarterfinals’ clash with the Tropang Giga to 1-all. Adrian Nocum banged in 20 points for the Elasto Painters, who forced a sudden death clash with the Tropang Giga.

east Asian Games and move closer to the SEA Games’ bronze-medal standard.

“Iyung pacing, kinakabahan kasi ako. Kaya nag-rubber shoes na lang. Hindi kaya ng spikes, masakit talaga,” said Salano, who shaved almost two minutes and 46 seconds off his clocking when he finished at ninth spot in the 2023 SEA Games (32:12.04).

Salano, who took the lead with a four-man group in the fifth lap, also came near the SEA Games’ bronze medal of Tan Htike Soe of Myanmar (31:25.55) in outpacing Orduna and Organiza, who settled for second and third in 31:28.21 and 31:42.21, respectively.

Hallasgo was unchallenged from start to finish as she went on to rule the women’s side of the 10,000 meter contest, reaching the final stop in 37 minutes and 5/10ths of a second.

The heat almost took its toll on the 31-year-old Hallasgo, whose clocking was above the 36:41.08 she

“Nakabalik kami a couple of times. Ang importante is they get to learn to get up kapag nagkakaroon ng run,” said ROS coach Yeng Guiao. Paul Varilla’s driving shot in the final second of the third allowed TNT to tie the match, 95-all, going into the fourth. The next showdown between ROS and TNT is set on Thursday. RR Pogoy delivered 28 points for the Elasto Painters. Jayson Castro struck with 17 points

submitted during last year’s SEA Games. Spectrum Runner Edna Magtubo and April Joy Alampayan of Bohol were second and third in 39.46.72 and 39:46.81.

“Dinala ko talaga ‘yung pace, kasi may target ako. Kaso dahil sa init ng araw, nahirapan ako,” said Hallasgo, who is from Malaybalay, Bukidnon. Their efforts came as a national junior record fell on the final day of the five-day meet organized by the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association, after the Pasig team of Kurt Titular took the silver in the men’s under-20 4x100-meter relays. The Pasig squad of Titular, Adrian Magsino, Constantine Payang and John Dave Tumangan came in at 42.89, behind Team Sarawak, and their time eclipsed the performance of the 2002 group of Florencio Sulana, Ralph Waldy Soguilon, Vinson Alday and Melchor Ayonayon of 43.03 seconds.

for TNT. The

Quarterscores:

French Open despite his second-round elimination in Rome, as Novak Djokovic laughed off being hit by a bottle which briefly cast doubt on his continued participation. Clay-court icon Nadal had previously said that he would only play at the French Open, where he

By Dennis Abrina

THE Perpetual Junior Altas won the Game 1 of their championship showdown with the Arellano University Lady Braves in five thrilling sets on Sunday in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Season 99 Junior’s Volleyball Fiesta Championship at the FilOil EcoOil Center in San Juan City. The Las Pin as team of coach Jason Sapin and coach Sandy Rieta ended the match that lasted two hours and 19 minutes with a score of 25-22, 1725, 26-24, 21-25, 15-13.

The Junior Altas Girls just need one more win in their Best-of-Three Finals to bring home the title to Las Pin as.

Jemalyn Menor recorded a game high 23 points and Sherrie Acosta contributed 20, libero Janine Espiritu had a double-double of 22 digs and 23 excellent receptions.

Setter Jam Monte recorded 20 sets for the Tony Tamayo-owned education institution in south metro.

Catherine Chu posted a triple-double for Arellano with 34 points, 21 digs and 10 receptions, while Samantha Maranan had 31 points, 21 digs and 18 receptions for Arellano U.

“Hopefully, this will continue so that we can win the championship this season,” said coach Sapin. Game 2 of the finals will be played on May 15, Wednesday at 7:30 am. If necessary, Game 3 is slated on May 19 at the same venue.

6-3 -- seemed a step backwards after reaching the last 16 in Madrid, leaving a question mark hanging over his plans.

“The decision, as you can imagine, is not clear in my mind today. But if I have to say what’s my feeling and if my mind is closer one way or the other way, I am going to say to be in Roland Garros and try my best,” Nadal told reporters.

“Physically I have some issues, but not probably yet enough to say I’m not playing in the most important event of my tennis career. Let’s see what’s going on, how I feel myself mentally tomorrow, after tomorrow, and in one week.” Nadal held his own in the first two games in the first set, which took 26 minutes to complete, but then quickly fell away, Hurkacz winning without dropping a service game and seemingly without breaking a sweat. AFP

Christine Hallasgo

Bambam Gamalinda of Davao Occidental

scores: Rain or Shine (121) — Clarito 29, Caracut 21, Nocum 20, Santillan 20, Mamuyac 12, Belga 6, Datu 6, Demusis 3, Norwood 2, Ildefonso 2, Asistio 0, Borboran 0. TNT (113) — Pogoy 28, Castro 17, Aurin 15, Oftana 11, K.Williams 11, Montalbo 5, B.Ganuelas-Rosser 5, Ponferrada 4, Varilla 4, Heruela 0, Galinato 0.

25-31; 62-64; 9595; 121-113. Peter Atencio

Foreign direct investments grew 29% to $1.4b in February

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Philippines continues to attract foreign investments, with a significant jump in February 2024.

Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed that foreign direct investment (FDI) net inflows went up 29.3 percent to $1.4 billion from $1.1 billion in February 2023. This development was due to the 927.3-percent expansion in nonresidents’ net investments in

equity capital (other than reinvestment of earnings) to $764 million from $74 million in February 2023.

The growth was tempered by the 41.5-percent contraction in nonresidents’ net investments in debt instruments to $533 million in February 2024 from $912 in February 2023.

Reinvestment of earnings also slightly declined 3.8 percent to $66 million from $69 million.

Bulk of the equity capital placements in February came from the Netherlands with investments directed mostly to the financial and insurance industry.

The BSP said that in the first two months, the total FDI net inflows

reached $2.3 billion, higher by 48.2 percent than $1.5-billion net inflows recorded in the same period last year.

“The growth in FDI reflects sustained investor confidence in the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals and resilience amid persistent inflationary pressures and global economic uncertainties,” the BSP said.

Michael Ricarfort, chief economist of Rizal Commercial Banking Corp., said the latest year-on-year improvement in the FDI data, among pre-pandemic highs, may have to do with improved economic and financial markets performance in recent months.

The headline inflation trended recently towards the BSP’s targets that could support/justify Fed rate cuts and local policy rate cuts later in 2024.

“Increased FDIs could have also partly been brought about by some realized investment commitments made for more than a year already during the various foreign trips of the administration,” Ricafort said.

“For the coming months, possible cuts in the U.S./global/local policy rates later in 2024, if inflation remains well anchored within inflation target of the central bank, could also lead to further pick up/improvement in FDIs eventually,” he said.

Spot market power rates soared in April

SYSTEM-WIDE electricity spot market prices increased by P1.37 per kilowatt-hour to P6.90 per kWh in April from P5.53 per kWh in March following the imposition of red and yellow alerts amid the high power demand.

The Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines, operator of the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market, said in its monthly operation highlights that average supply for April (March 26 to April 25) reached 19,210 megawatts (MW) from 14,376 MW in the previous month.

The supply margins, equivalent to excess supply plus reserve requirement, were placed at 2,869 MW, significantly lower than the 3,827 MW margins in previous month. Reserve requirement (regulating, contingency and dispatchable) levels were at 1,146 MW last month, lower than 1,876 MW in March.

“The April 2024 system average price in the WESM is P6.90 per kWh compared to last month’s P5.19 per kWh and it is recorded that 19.68 percent of the trading intervals for this month were subjected to the secondary price cap [SPC] compared to last month’s 7.04 percent,” IEMOP corporate planning and communications manager Arjon Valencia said. The SPC is imposed when the rolling average of the generator weighted average price (RAGWAP)—calculated over a period of three days, or 864 five-minute dispatch intervals— exceeds P9 per kWh.

IEMOP said that once the threshold is breached, the SPC will be applied to the rate of P6.245 per KWh in the next dispatch interval. It said that when the RAGWA falls below P9. per kWh, the regular pricing mechanism resumes without the SEC for upcoming dispatch intervals.

By Othel V. Campos

STATE-RUN Bases Conversion and Development Corp. (BCDA) announced over the weekend plans to redevelop Market! Market! Shopping Mall in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

“It’s our last, single, big property in BGC. We will make sure that once we redevelop it, we will get the maximum value for the property,” said BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang.

BCDA is not discounting the possibility of allowing Ayala Land Inc., owner and developer or Market! Market! to participate in the planned redevelopment.

The lease with Ayala is ending in 2027, and BCDA said it is already preparing for the eventual disposition of the property.

“In 2025, we will start the disposition of the property Market! Market! is renting from us. Right now, it is with Ayala, but we see no reason why they cannot participate in the redevelopment of the site,” Bingcang said.

He said the proposed plan for Market! Market! is a mixture of retail and possibly corporate and residential development.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

HANN Holdings Inc. (HHI), the owner and developer of integrated resort (IR) brand Hann Resort, is shaping the landscape of luxury living in New Clark City with the ambitious 450-hectare Hann Reserve project.

HHI said in a statement the first phase of the luxury eco-sanctuary project, estimated at P17 billion, is already underway, with site preparation and infrastructure development in full swing.

“With Hann Reserve, we embark on yet another visionary project. Part-

nering with industry giants like Accor, Marriott International, and the PGA [Professional Golfers’ Association of America] and with the steadfast support of PAGCOR [Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.], BCDA [Bases Conversion Development Authority], Clark Development Corp. and local government units, we aim to create an unparalleled experience for golf enthusiasts, families and discerning travelers,” HHI president and chief executive Dae Sik Han said.

The initial phase will introduce the Banyan Tree luxury hotel and residences, along with an 18-hole moun-

tain golf course crafted by Nicklaus Design. Completion of the first phase is expected by 2026, marking the beginning of a new era in leisure and hospitality in the Philippines.

The Hann Reserve is a brief 10-minute drive from Clark International Airport and is poised as the landmark development in New Clark City. It features three PGA affiliated championship golf courses designed by KJ Choi, Nicklaus Design and Nick Faldo as well as state-of-theart player development facilities designed to cater to both avid golfers and leisure seekers alike.

SMC Infrastructure advised motorists using the Skyway and NAIA Expressway to ensure their Autosweep RFID

“We

Most distribution utilities source a portion of their monthly power requirement from the WESM and its rates are blended with other supply sources. Alena Mae S. Flores

PH market seen trading sideways this week—analyst

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PHILIPPINE stocks are expected to trade sideways after the previous week’s decline as investors await direction on policy rates in the upcoming Monetary Board meeting this week.

“The markets would take cue for the upcoming BSP [Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas] monetary-policy-setting meeting on Thursday, May 16, 2024, and the latest signals on local monetary authorities on possible rate cuts later in 2024 or 2025,” Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricarfort said. Ricafort said while the BSP would likely match the latest US Federal Reserve’s rate pause for the 6th straight month on May 1, 2024 and would match any possible future Fed rate cuts later in 2024 and in 2025, investors remained cautious due to higher-for-longer signals from some Fed officials recently.

“The markets recently priced in about 1-2 Fed rate cuts over the past 2 weeks, so more dovish signals would be welcomed by the markets, in view of mostly softer-thanexpected local inflation, gross domestic product, employment, trade, manufacturing recently,” Ricafort said. The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index plummeted by 103.62 points, or 1.6 percent, to close at 6,511.93 last week, on higher April inflation rate and lower-than-expected first quarter GDP growth. Meanwhile, the market’s decline could also provide opportunity for bargain hunting which could lead for possible upward correction.

Puregold’s Tindahan Ni Aling Puring program supports MSMEs

PUREGOLD continues to fortify the foundation of local communities—sari-sari stores and food establishments amid fluctuating economic conditions faced by Filipinos.

Puregold’s Tindahan ni Aling Puring program recognizes these entrepreneurs as pivotal to the Philippine economy and offers comprehensive benefits tailored to bolster resilience and support the growth of the micro, small, and medium business enterprises sector.

“We have seen record-setting volumes, thanks to more small business owners signing up for Tindahan ni Aling Puring,” said Puregold president Ferdinand Vincent Co. Members attribute this to Puregold’s offerings, including the convenience of a onestop shop for all their business

needs, the reliability of product quality, convenient locations, and competitive pricing.

The Tindahan ni Aling Puring program is the cornerstone of Puregold with nearly one million members.

Puregold gives back to its members through the annual Negosyo Convention, scheduled for May 16-18, 2024, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

This year’s theme, “Asenso Tayo,” underscores Puregold’s commitment to boosting the profitability and long-term viability of Filipino sari-sari stores and other small businesses.

“Behind nearly every sarisari store in the Philippines is Puregold. We are honored to be their ally in their journey to success and financial independence,” said Co.

CLI eyeing Cavite real estate project

PROPERTY developer Cebu

Landmasters Inc. (CLI) is looking at Cavite as a possible location for its first Luzon real estate project.

CLI chief operating officer Jose Franco Soberano said in a recent investors’ briefing the company had received various offers from landowners in Cavite for possible partnership.

“A lot of landowners are knocking on our doors. We need to filter this out well, but we are eyeing a Cavite development,” the company said. The property firm was originally looking at Camarines Sur as the first site for its Luzon venture.

Meanwhile, CLI reported that its net income climbed 15 percent in the first quarter of the

year to P987 million from P847 million in the same period last year on the back of a doubledigit growth in revenues.

CLI said first-quarter consolidated revenues jumped 31 percent to P6.23 billion from P4.77 billion on robust growth from its residential and leasing businesses.

“This quarter’s notable achievement strongly indicates that we are on track. Our consistently strong sales performance in the preceding years coupled with the significant progress of the construction of our projects are our main contributors to our stellar performance,” CLI chairman and chief executive Jose Soberano III said. Jenniffer B. Austria

Shoppers flock to Puregold’s Tindahan ni Aling Puring program, which offers comprehensive benefits tailored to bolster resilience and support the growth of the micro, small and medium business enterprises sector.

BUSINESS

Chairman Tengco takes PAGCOR to greater heights

By Jimmy Montejo

IT’S been said that the best way to throw the dice is to throw it away—for good.

Well, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) chairman Alejandro “Alex” Tengco doesn’t feel that way insofar as the controversial Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) are concerned.

Amid clamors to let the POGOs go, Tengco believes they can stay in the country—under stricter regulations—considering the substantial revenues they can contribute to the national economy, plus some 70,000 job opportunities for the local workforce.

do what they want to do, it will go back to the wild, wild west,” Tengco said.

Another ticklish matter that Tengco wants to ultimately resolve is the inherent conflict of interest underlying PAGCOR’s mandated task of regulating the gaming industry and at the same time operating government-owned casinos. Under this setup, PAGCOR is both the regulator and the regulated. He strongly feels this puts PAGCOR in an untenable situation—being the

He is giving a new POGO name though—International Gaming Licensee (IGL)— hopeful that it won’t be the same dog with a new collar. But retaining POGO does not mean he is being indifferent to public sensibilities. On this score, he must do a delicate balancing act between morality issues and national interest, and that’s not an easy thing to do. Somehow, he admitted that some POGOs were indeed, involved in illegal activities. To curb this hooliganism, he reinforced collaboration with law enforcement agencies—the Philippine National Police, the Department of Justice, the National Bureau of Investigation, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the Department of Information and Communications Technology. “We have been going against those that are involved in human trafficking and kidnapping, so I believe if you are able to properly monitor and properly police there is definitely a chance the industry might contribute more revenue. But if you just close your eyes and let them

governor and the governed.

To unravel the impasse, the chairman seriously considers privatizing the casino operations under closer PAGCOR supervision, and he already has the timeframe to put this in motion. He looks forward to placing all land-based casinos in the hands of private operators by mid-2025.

“We have started preparing for this transition in earnest, and we are starting where it matters most – within PAGCOR itself… We certainly know our potential and capability to become the gold standard in the Asian gaming scene,” Tengco disclosed.

Allaying fears that the move will result in the displacement of a large number of employees, Tengco gives assurance that the matter was being taken care of.

Anyway, Tengco has bigger plans other than privatization.

The chairman is bent on instituting essential reforms in the corporate structure and business operations to boost overall image as a responsive and competitive government-owned and controlled corporation.

PH, Dutch officials share best practices for Clark Nat’l Food Hub

THE Philippine government met with Dutch officials in the Hague on May 8, 2024 to discuss best practices for establishing the Clark National Food Hub.

DTI Undersecretary Mary Jean Pacheco together with Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, vice chairperson of the House Committee on Trade and Industry, and Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) president Arrey Perez led the high-level meeting which highlights the government’s commitment to food security.

“The goal is to ensure a more efficient supply chain that will make food accessible, available, and affordable for the Filipino. The best way to do that is to learn from the best,” Pacheco said. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved the three-year Food Logistics Action Agenda presented by DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual in August 2023, which sought to revolutionize the food distribution network.

The establishment of the National Food Hub in Clark is an actualization of the plan.

“Aligned with the President’s goal of ensuring food security, this initiative will empower our farmers and the private sector, as well as strengthen our supply chain and logistics systems,” said the DTI chief.

PAGCOR chairman Alejandro Tengco Photo courtesy of https://www.asgam.com

Globe deploys solution to cut carbon footprint

By Darwin G. Amojelar

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said over the weekend it deployed innovative technology to its network that cuts costs and shrinks its carbon footprint.

The telecom arm of the Ayala Group said it is utilizing builtin power-saving features within their Base Station Technology (BTS) to optimize its LTE and 5G networks.

These features, Symbol Power Saving and Carrier Shutdown, automatically adjust network operations based on real-time traffic, ensuring peak efficiency without sacrificing service quality.

Symbol Power Saving or “Microsleep” conserves energy during brief idle moments by disabling the power amplifier when no data is transmitted, achieving about 1-percent to 4-percent power savings.

Carrier Shutdown is employed during extended low-traffic periods to maintain essential coverage while disabling capacity layers, leading to substantial power savings of about 3 percent to 7 percent. Through these initiatives, Globe conserved around 637 MWh by end 2023, translating into a carbon footprint reduction of 464 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2).

“The successful implementation of these advanced BTS power-saving techniques highlights our commitment to sustainability and innovation,” said Joel Agustin, Globe senior vice president and head of network planning and engineering.

MREIT, parent eye P13-b property-for-share swap

By Jenniffer B. Austria

MREIT Inc., said over the weekend it will acquire six office properties from its parent firm Megaworld Corp. for P13.15 billion under a property-for-share swap deal.

The acquisition will increase MREIT’s portfolio by 157,000 square meters or 48 percent to 482,000 sq. m., the company said in a statement. These properties include Two West Campus, Ten West Campus and One Le Grand in McKinley West; One Fintech and Two Fintech in Iloilo Business Park; and Davao Finance Center in Davao Park District. Under the deal, MREIT will issue 926.16 million secondary shares to Megaworld at P14.20 per share. This

represents a premium of 10 percent over MREIT’s closing price of P12.94 per share on May 10, 2024.

The purchase price was based on appraisal reports and validated by a third-party fairness opinion, which were presented to and approved by the company’s committee and board of directors.

The deal is still subject for approval by the Securities and Exchange Commission.

“The acquisition of these properties

moves us closer to our target portfolio of 500,000 sq. m. by the end of 2024.

This transaction not only supports the sustained growth of MREIT but is also dividend accretive to our shareholders.

We are immediately working on the next set of acquisitions to reach our target assets under management before the year concludes,” said MREIT president and chief executive Kevin Tan.

Meanwhile, MREIT reported that it declared cash dividends of P0.2460 per share to its shareholders based on its distributable income in the first quarter 2024.

The dividends will be payable on June 14, 2024 to shareholders on record as of May 24, 2024. This brings MREIT’s dividend yield to 7.6 percent on an annualized basis, based on the closing share price of P12.94 per share on May 10, 2024.

DoubleDragon’s total equity poised to top P100b for the first time in 2024

DOUBLEDRAGON Corp. is expect-

ed to exceed P100 billion in total equity for the first time in 2024.

The company is positioned to become one of the few companies in the Philippines with total equity at 12-digit level. It is also one of the few companies in the Philippines with credit rating PRS Aaa (Triple A) from Philippine Rating Services Corp.

DoubleDragon’s string of titled investment properties strategically planted in prime locations spread out in Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao and Overseas serves as its strong underlying solid foundation.

“DoubleDragon despite being a relatively newer player in a highly competitive industry dominated by long established giants that came way many decades ahead, we are

grateful for the grit and hard work of our team and support of all our stakeholders that enabled DoubleDragon to demonstrate that the business landscape of the Philippines is a playing field that allows entrepreneurs to thrive, inspiring more and more entrepreneurs to build more start-ups and push it forward to eventually become large entrenched players over time,” said DoubleDragon chairman Edgar Sia II. “As an entrepreneur myself who started in the province, I firmly believe that a country that produces a continuous flow of new players that are able to grow and not just a handful of old players is vital for a robust and healthy economy that will contribute towards a First World Philippines,” said Sia.

holds food safety training

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Palawan, through the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), held

Korea

of chips industry”, Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok said, according to the finance ministry statement released Sunday.

The

US

bor action against the retailer in the United States if it goes forward. Employees at the Apple store in the town of Towson, outside of Baltimore, voted to unionize in 2022 -- another first for the iPhone maker’s US stores. But a contract has yet to be agreed upon.

“Following

STEPPING up the fight against online fraud and scams, several government agencies teamed up with the private sector and advocacy groups for an education campaign focused on bolstering consumer protection online.

The “Be Wais” Civic Education Campaign against Fraud and Scams aims to increase awareness among the public about the various types of scams, empowering them to spot and

By Othel V. Campos

partners based in New Clark City to train frontliners on the world-renowned Filipino brand of service excellence (FBSE). The visit to Clark coincided with the 51st founding anniversary of the DOT. “To be honest, I really could have just spent my day at our Central Office to mark the anniversary of the DOT, but I chose to be here if only to deliver personally my utmost gratitude, for championing Philippine tourism and

avoid the prevalent fraudulent activities online.

The months-long campaign kicked off on May 11 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, spearheaded by advocacy groups Bayan Academy and Citizen Watch Philippines. Representatives from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Philippines graced the event, along with private sector partners Meta and SM Supermalls.

pushing forward to the consciousness of the global community the good work that our tourism front liners are doing through the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence Program,” said DOT Secretary Christina Frasco in her speech before stakeholders and partners in Clark. She underscored the significance of FBSE in the hospitality industry to achieve a holistic branding for the Philippines.

The BCDA and stakeholders signed the MOU in preparation for the Central Luzon’s industrial and business district and for the anticipated MICE Conference on July 10 to 12 this year.

The group released the first of a series of educational videos illustrating the deceptive tactics of various scams such as online shopping

scams, phishing or bank scams, job scams, love scams, investment scams, and brand impersonation scams.

These videos will also be shared on the social media platforms of the government agencies, the private sector and advocacy partners.

The key message is to ‘Be wise and skeptical (Be wais at magduda) when confronted with the scammers’ various modus operandi.

DTI Palawan

MENTORSHIP. Twenty-three mentees of the Department of

and

(DTI) Kapatid Mentor Me (KMME) program from Agusan del Sur gain knowledge in essential business skills, focused on supply and value chain management as well as accounting and finance. The KMME program, which fosters the growth of small businesses across the Philippines, features immersive workshops and sessions led by industry experts.

REAL ESTATE

Alveo Land sets new standards in southern living

ALVEO Land, the residential brand of Ayala Land Inc. for upscale developments, is sprucing up south of Metro Manila with the launch of two residential developments that offer upgraded design features and amenities responding to the needs and aspirations of the premium market segment.

The property firm launched two nextgeneration residential projects—Sereneo Nuvali and Caleia Vermosa in March. Both projects resonated well with the market as Sereneo Nuvali and Caleia Vermosa generated almost P1.5 billion and P2 billion respectively in year-to-date reservation sales.

The projects boosted the company’s first-quarter sales to P12.7 billion, its highest first-quarter sales performance.

“We are fortunate that the market segment we serve continues to grow and is fairly resilient. But we also recognize that the premium market is evolving – it is increasingly more sophisticated and has much higher expectations in terms of products and service standards,” said Alveo president Joseph Carmichael Jugo.

“It is in this context that Alveo embarked on enhancing our residential product offerings starting with Sereneo Nuvali and Caleia Vermosa,” Jugo said.

Living well

As Southern Luzon continues to be a key growth area for most property developers, Alveo launched Sereneo in March, its sixth residential subdivision in Nuvali.

Sereneo is a 41-hectare neighborhood community that prioritizes spaciousness and greenery with a three-hectare central park and a two-hectare park system.

Jugo said the parks are all within 200-meter radius from each and every lot, which future residents can enjoy. The project will also have a multi-pavilion clubhouse and an impressive 770-square-meter pool complex, the largest among all the neighborhoods in Nuvali.

Sereneo offers more lots with premium views of either parks, amenities or the morning sun in the east. Typical lots measure 275 square meters with a package price of P15 million based on P52,000 per square meter selling price.

Suburban dynamism

Vermosa, a 700-hectare mixed-use development in Cavite launched by ALI in 2015, is a fast-emerging district in the south.

Following the success of Ardia, Alveo’s first offering in Vermosa, it launched also in March its latest neighborhood—the 28-hectare Caleia.

Over three ectares of Caleia’s land area are dedicated for amenities and parks. The development has an expansive 1,700-square-meter park entrance and a 20 meter-wide, tree-lined main road.

Its Zen-inspired clubhouse built on the 2.5-hectare central park will feature a 550-square-meter pool complex and a veranda pavilion and lounge.

From the central park, future residents can take a stroll through a linear park which leads to a multipurpose picnic grove.

“This is not typical to what we do. The entrance is not typical to what we do. We wanted to showcase what is to come. So dedicating greens and open spaces just outside the entrance is already a signal of what it is like,” Jugo said.

Similar to Sereneo in Nuvali, Caleia optimizes lot placements and offers more prime inventory with parkside location or east orientation. Typical lots measure around 250 square meters worth roughly P15 million for P56,000 per square meter.

More projects

Following its robust first-quarter performance, Alveo is looking to launch more projects that will cater to the upscale market.

“The strong market reception to the Sereneo and Caleia launch emboldens our team to continue to innovate, to enhance our product offerings and elevate the living experience. We are truly grateful to our clients for the continued trust in the Alveo brand and for inspiring us to build places that people love,” said Jugo.

Jugo said the company is looking at properties in Quezon City, Batangas and Cavite for future launches.

“We continue to see growth potential in prime locations socially within Ayala Land estates. Investors and end-users value and appreciate the unique benefits of investing and living in an Alveo property within these master planned estates,” he said.

SM Offices utilizes technology to serve tenant-partners

MAXIMIZING the latest in technological advancements, SM Offices has been quick to adopt various property technologies (proptech) into their operations to help open new avenues in advancing the quality of real estate.

Proptech brings forth inventive solutions that enhance buildings – boosting efficiency, streamlining operations, and improving customer experience.

SM Offices, a subsidiary of property giant SM Prime Holdings Inc, is actively leveraging on such technologies to slash energy consumption and revolutionizing its space solutions to become more sustainable. This forward-thinking approach to integrating proptech not only underscores SM Offices’ commitment to sustainability goals but also paves the way for innovative adaptations in its infrastructure.

It recently launched electric vehicle (EV) chargers at three of their office buildings in the Mall of Asia Complex, namely ThreeE-com Center, FourE-com Center, and FiveE-com Center.

By introducing EV chargers in its office buildings, SM Offices takes the next logical step towards reducing environmental impact and enhancing tenant experience,

“Listening to the growing demand from our tenant-partners for more environmentally friendly transportation options, we have proactively installed EV chargers in our properties. This initiative is part of our broader commitment to improving tenant convenience and leading by example in adopting a low-carbon footprint lifestyle. Our efforts are a testament to our belief that green buildings and practices are not merely ethical choices but smart, long-term investments,” said Alexis L. Ortiga, SM Prime vice president and SM Offices head.

It has also embraced cutting-edge technologies like the Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) –another technology that promotes energy efficiency by transforming stale exhaust air into fresh outside air. Aside from improved energy efficiency, this system enhances air quality, moisture regulation, and provides cool and clean air to the tenants.

Other technologies in its office buildings include a Building Management System (BMS) and Air Conditioning and Ventilation System (ACVS) equipment, which are used to optimize desired comfort cooling requirements at the least energy and water consumption for both common areas and applicable leased spaces.

Discovery World launches inaugural luxury residential project in Davao

New Zealand Prime Minister visits sustainable building in Alabang

NEW Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon paid a special visit to Northgate Cyberzone in Filinvest City, Alabang during his diplomatic trip to the Philippines, to commend the successful establishment of office and business operations of one of Filinvest REIT’s tenants, Auckland-headquartered Building Engineering and Design Co. Philippines Limited Inc. (BEDC).

NZ Prime Minister Luxon’s visit highlights the thriving partnership between New Zealand and the Philippines, as well as the flourishing business environment facilitated by Filinvest REIT Corp. (FILRT).

Northgate Cyberzone, located in Filinvest City, is an IT-BPO campus-style hub and a key center of productivity where majority of the 17 Grade A, sustainable office buildings under the FILRT portfolio are located including Filinvest Two, where BEDC’s operations is located.

Filinvest Two is an Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE) certified building and is also 100 percent powered by renewable energy.

BEDC made its significant move to Northgate Cyberzone in March 2023, securing 1,723.55 square meters of office space. Since then, the company has grown from 40 to 400 employees.

BEDC is set to expand by acquiring an additional 1,723.55 square meters of office space, slated for completion by August 2024.

“We are honored that the Hon. Christopher Luxon made time to visit BEDC at Northgate Cyberzone and we are deeply grateful for the trust BEDC has placed in FILRT. Their expansion plans reflect the confidence international investors have in the company as their partner in expanding their presence and operations in the Philippines,” said FILRT president and chief executive officer Maricel Brion-Lirio.

Sereneo Social Pavilion Drop-Off

Caleia Swimming Pool

Sereneo Main Spine Greenway

Caleia Zen Courtyard FILRT president and chief executive officer Maricel Brion-Lirio (left) and New Zealand Prime MInister Christopher Luxon (right).

SHOWBIZ

‘Senior High’ characters all grown up in ‘High Street’

rounded version of the once-troubled teen.

“Sky is definitely more considerate now,” Brillantes said. “She’s learned to balance advocating for what’s right with respecting others’ feelings,” Brillantes added that Sky is finally allowing herself to find joy after the trauma of losing her twin sister.

Juan Karlos Labajo, who portrays Gino, describes a character burdened by guilt.

“Gino is determined to make amends for his father’s wrongdoings,” Labajo said.

He also highlighted Gino’s complicated relationship with his struggling mother.

FRESH off the success of the coming-of-age mystery drama Senior High, which tackled the complexities of teenage life and a central whodunit, the stars are back for High Street

of being young adults. Andrea Brillantes, who reprises her role as Sky, shared that viewers can expect a more mature and well-

mysteries

By Angelica Villanueva

HEART Evangelista opened up about her third miscarriage as she penned a heartwarming letter for her son on Mother’s Day.

In her Instagram story, Heart shared how she considered losing her fourth baby as one of her biggest heartbreaks.

“A few days ago our baby boy’s heart stopped beating. This will be our 4th angel,” said Heart.

She further stated despite not meeting him, the fashion icon expressed her gratitude to her baby FrancisKo for making her feel the love and hope she had ever received.

“Although this could be one of my biggest heartbreaks...thank YOU for still trying to be with me and for making me feel so much love already. Love and hope that this world could never give...I love you ‘FrancisKo’ I shall keep my heart intact while you find your way back to us,” she added.

In another post, the actress penned a letter addressed to her baby FrancisKo.

“My son FrancisKo, I was sure to meet you soon. I had prepared a few things you may like but for some reason, your beating heart lost its way to us,” wrote Heart. Heart then emphasized that she wanted her baby to know baby FrancisKo’s existence had healed her in many ways and she would be waiting for him until he was ready.

“I don’t blame you for being scared—it is a scary world but I would like to let you know I was prepared for you. Even if I am heartbroken I will keep my heart intact while you find your way back to us. Your beating heart has healed me in so many ways. I love you anak...I’ll be waiting. Mama Heart,” she continued. Heart ended her post greeting all kinds of mothers in the world who share the same struggle with her.

“To all the mothers, fur moms mothers to friends, thank you for your heart and all the women like me going through the same struggle. Happy Mother’s Day. (FrancisKo, my Francis I love you, anak.),” Heart wrote.

“It’s a reversal of roles,” Labajo explained. “Gino is now the caretaker, and it’s taking a toll on him.” Labajo believes viewers will be inspired by Gino’s choice to

pursue a career in law.

Xyriel Manabat, who takes on the role of Roxy, promises a character arc filled with challenges and growth.

“Roxy will face the realities of single motherhood,” Manabat shared. She added that despite the difficulties, Roxy will display immense strength and determination.

Elijah Canlas, who plays Archie, offered a humorous take on his character’s development.

“Starting in prison is bound to mature anyone,” Canlas said in jest expressing excitement to see how Archie would face the world after his release.

Meanwhile, despite presenting an elevated storyline and performance, Brillantes admitted to feeling pressured about High Street following the overwhelming success of Senior High

“I’m excited but I also have mixed emotions because whenever a show has a sequel, there’s always pressure to make it better or to match the quality of the first one,” said the 21-year-old actress.

Completing the cast are Tommy Alejandrino, Gela Atayde, Mon Confiado, Kean Cipriano, Ana Abad Santos, Gerald Madrid, Inka Magnaye, Angeli Bayani, and Rans Rifol

Aside from the returning cast members, new characters such as Dimples Romana, Romnick Sarmenta, Harvey Bautista, AC Bonifacio, and Ralph De Leon will add more excitement to the intriguing story.

The series premieres tonight at 9:30 on Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, and TV5. It will also stream 48 hours before its TV broadcast on iWantTFC.

By Abigail Adriatico

P-POP girl group BINI recently dazzled their fans in Singapore as they performed at the Music Matters Live 2024 main stage last May 9.

The members of the group poured their hearts out as they sang their hit songs “No Fear,” “Pantropiko,” “Salamin, Salamin,” “Karera,” and “Huwag Muna Tayong Umuwi,” which greatly delighted the packed audience that loudly sang along with them.

“SG never beating the ‘OA

energy’ allegations! Music matters more than words can express! And tonight, we smiled through every note feeling the tropical energy!

Thanks to everyone for the 2nd time of not-so-nonchalant love and support!” the group said in a post shared on its social media pages.

“Kudos to #MusicMattersLive for providing us and other artists a platform to connect in the music space!” the group said further in its post, sharing more photos of themselves along with their fans.

Apart from BINI other OPM acts that

Mercury Rising Bob Zozobrado

ABIG hello to Japan, which I haven’t revisited in the past 44 years. I remember my last visit to Tokyo was after I won, as a Pan Am Account Executive, our airline’s prestigious President’s Sales Award in 1980. I was the only Filipino among the chosen 25 outstanding Pan Am Sales officers from all over the world, thus my decision to treat myself to a fun Japanese holiday.

Although I always transit Tokyo for a few hours twice a year on my way to the USA or Canada, I somehow never found a reason to leave the airport premises to enjoy

Kon’nichiwa, Nihon

more of what the city offers.

In my present designation, I have to attend many international events participated in by seniors and potential retirees, thus this Tokyo visit.

The city hosts this week a gathering of this section of Japanese society at the Tokyo

the intersection, I could almost hear the command, “Chaaaaaaaarge!” from Lord Tennyson’s Charge of the Light Brigade

Right beside the Shibuya Crossing is the statue of the world-famous dog, Hachiko, which has become the Japanese symbol of loyalty. This Japanese Akita dog has been honored for his remarkable loyalty to his owner, a university professor who took him in from a farm and made him his pet.

Every day, Hachiko would meet his master at the Shibuya station, who would be coming home from work. One day, the professor died while at work but Hachiko still went to the station to wait for him and went back home only when it became dark. The dog would do this every single day, waiting for his master at the Shibuya Station for nine long years until he died. Indeed, a beautiful story of loyalty. I had to line up for 30 minutes waiting for my turn to have a photo with Hachiko’s statue as the queue was snaking around the plaza where it was located.

Next on our itinerary was the beautiful and majestic Akasaka Palace, which used to be the Imperial Residence of the Japanese Emperor and his Empress. It is now a State Guest House where visiting Presidents and Prime Ministers of other countries are billeted when in Tokyo.

Then we went to the famous 333-meter Tokyo Tower, a communications lattice tower patterned after the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It also has an observation deck 250 meters above ground, thus, its main sources of income are tourism and antenna leasing. It is painted white and orange to conform with air traffic safety regulations. This majestic tower has been featured in many Hollywood

Nearby is Shiba Park where stands Zojo-ji, the oldest and biggest Buddhist temple in Japan. Built in 1393 and originally owned by the Tokugawa Shogunate, it is now a monastery for Buddhist priests and continues to be a hub for religious events in metropolitan Tokyo. Posing nearby as a striking contrast to the ancient temple is the five-storey

a popular robot in the

What a nice “Kon’nichiwa” it was for my team and I, visiting these attractions in the world’s most populated city immediately after we landed. Of course, the tour got us tired and hungry, so we decided to cap our exciting pre-check-in activity with an honest-to-goodness

A week in Panama

Where cinema, culture, tradition, and engineering marvels converge

By Drea Castro

PANAMA, a country steeped in cultural heritage and natural beauty, recently hosted a week-long celebration that seamlessly blended the glitz of the International Film Festival of Panama, the rich traditions of the Emberá Tribe, the vibrant Festival of Devils in Casco Viejo, and the awe-inspiring Panama Canal. This exciting trip shows how the country can blend different experiences to make amazing memories

The heart of the week-long adventure began in Panama City, where the International Film Festival of Panama happened under the direction of Karla Quintero. The legendary John Travolta graced the festival alongside critically acclaimed director Gregory Nava who is renowned for his masterpiece El Norte

The festival’s program was an incredible curation of global cinema that highlighted underrepresented global stories. Classic masterpieces like Grease shared the spotlight with gems such as Italy’s Lo Capitano and Japan’s Monster, roping in audiences and sparking powerful discussions about storytelling, diverse cultural perspectives, and the power of cinema.

Querido Trópico grabbed the Su Mirada post-production award, while La Chica Destellante and Other Protests won the Development Award. The prestigious Copa Airlines Audience Award went to Bila Burba

A series of special industry panels provided invaluable insights into the inner workings of the international film industry. Filmmakers, producers, and industry

experts took part in essential discussions for a deeper understanding of cinema on a global scale. The festival’s commitment to showcasing diverse voices and narratives contributed to the artistic exploration of Panama and beyond.

Amidst the cinematic celebrations, the Festival of Devils in the heart of Casco Viejo added a touch of mystique and tradition. This annual celebration, deeply rooted in historical and cultural significance, showcases Panama’s diverse heritage.

The origins of the Festival of Devils can be traced back to the colonial era when African slaves infused their traditions with local customs. Today, participants wear elaborate devil masks and costumes, symbolizing a blend of spiritualism and theatricality. Drumbeats reverberate through the streets as dancers perform intricate routines, embodying the spirit of “Diablo,” ancestors and mythical creatures. No visit to Panama is complete without

experiencing the marvel of the Panama Canal. The canal’s locks and waterways connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, facilitating global trade and maritime navigation. With a quick ride from Casco Viejo, visitors can witness ships of all sizes passing through the locks, gaining a firsthand appreciation for this historical engineering wonder that has made a worldwide impact. Another highlight was a nearby adventure into the heart of Panama’s rainforests to visit one of the villages of the Emberá Tribe. Visitors were taken on a journey alongside the river on a tranquil canoe ride and immersed themselves into the culture and traditions of a typical Emberá village.

This community, deeply rooted in ancient traditions, welcomed travelers with warm hospitality and cheerful songs. The Emberá tribal leader shared stories about their lasting traditions while sharing a freshly prepared meal of fish, plantains, and fruits wrapped in banana leaves. Accompanying the meal was a lively performance of their traditional music and dance.

Panama showed how well it can bring together movies, culture, festivals, and amazing engineering. The country’s welcoming spirit and unity were clear, from the fancy movie festival to sharing stories with the Emberá Tribe. Whether enjoying the vibrant Festival of Devils or visiting the famous Panama Canal, it was all memorable.

The 12th IFF Panama ran from April 4 to 7. The Festival Devils took place in

Members of the Emberá tribe guide visitors along the Panama jungle’s river

John Travolta graces the 12th International Film Festival of Panama

The astonishing five-storey high statue of the Unicorn Gundam stands near the Zojo-ji temple

The iconic Shibuya Crossing sees more than 3000 pedestrians crossing the intersection every two minutes

YOUR MONDAY CHUCKLE

good wife always forgives her husband when she’s wrong!

Zojo-ji is the oldest and biggest Buddhist temple in the country residing near Shiba Park